Hong Kong: Deputy SJ to attend Mainland forums

Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan will attend large-scale forums in Shenzhen and Changsha to promote Hong Kong's status as the centre for international legal and dispute resolution services in the Asia-Pacific region.

Tomorrow in Shenzhen, Mr Cheung will first attend the 2023 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Legal Forum (Shenzhen), and deliver a speech on the latest initiatives on the development of the bay area in the Policy Address, before returning to Hong Kong in the afternoon.

Bringing together professionals from the political, legal and business sectors, the forum will focus on enhancing the soft connectivity of cross-boundary legal services to further support the integration of Hong Kong and Macau's legal services into the overall development of the country and promote the deepening of co-operation in legal services.

Mr Cheung will then depart for Changsha on October 29 for the Boao Forum for Asia's 2nd Conference of Global Economic Development Economic Development & Security Forum, returning to Hong Kong the next day.

With the theme of Global Development & Shared Security this year, the forum is an important platform for forging consensus on global economic development and security.

Mr Cheung said that one of the key initiatives in this year's Policy Address is to enhance the development of the eight centres to dovetail with national strategies for creating strong impetus for growth.

Noting that security is the foundation of high-quality economic development, he added that the forum will facilitate delegations from Hong Kong and other places to focus on Global Development and Shared Security, and to conduct high-level, in-depth and cross-disciplinary discussions on a number of hot topics.

This story has been published on: 2023-10-26. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article.
HK unveils investor entry program to boost growth

09:04, October 26, 2023 By Zhang Hongpei ( Global Times

China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) aims to reinforce its traditional advantages as an international financial hub and deepen cooperation with industries and firms by implementing an investor entry program for those who have invested HK$30 million ($3.83 million) or more in Hong Kong.

The HKSAR government will put in place new institutional set-ups and implement new initiatives targeted at attracting enterprises, investment and talent, John Lee, chief executive of HKSAR, said on Wednesday when delivering his second policy address to the HKSAR Legislative Council (LegCo) since taking office.

The city will implement an investor entry program for those who have invested HK$30 million ($3.83 million) or more in stocks, funds, bonds and other assets (excluding real estate) in Hong Kong. This policy will strengthen the development of Hong Kong's asset and wealth management businesses, financial services and related professional services. Details will be announced by the end of this year, Lee said.

Following the launch of the online platform for the Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) last year, the government will establish the physical office of the HKTE by the end of this month, which will provide support for incoming talent and follow up with their development and needs.

The local government is also moving to roll out plans to deepen cooperation with the mainland.

It will render its full support and work with the government of Shenzhen, South China's Guangdong Province, to foster the synergistic development of the Hong Kong Park and the Shenzhen Park, the two parks of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Cooperation Zone, which was promulgated in August by the central government.

Innovative measures under exploration include providing travel convenience for research personnel. That could mean enabling those who have pre-registered to have streamlined access between the two parks, and adopting technology to facilitate faster movement, such as facial recognition. It could also mean facilitating cross-boundary capital flows within the zone, and capitalizing on Hong Kong's advantages in drawing international talent to play leading roles in the work in the zone.

Song Ding, a research fellow at the China Development Institute, told the Global Times on Wednesday that Lee's second policy address, laying out the city's development direction, could well reflect the government's resolve and ambition to bolster the economy after the hit of the COVID-19 pandemic.

After the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Hong Kong's economy has begun to recover. Growth is set to resume this year, Lee said Wednesday. The economy expanded 2.2 percent in the first half.

"Local authorities have strengthened top-level design, abandoning the idea of relying solely on the market to develop innovation and technology. Instead, they have combined a promising government with an efficient market," Song said, adding that Hong Kong has the natural and unique advantage of enjoying the strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world under the principle of "one country, two systems."

Bruce Pang, head of research and chief economist at JLL for greater China, told the Global Times on Wednesday that the measures to solidify the integration of Hong Kong and the mainland, and to enhance the city's competitiveness to capital and talent, will further promote and reshape Hong Kong's competitiveness.

"Hong Kong will strengthen its role as a hub that connects the world with the mainland, providing a dominant gateway to the mainland for foreign businesses and China's world-class offshore financial center," Pang said.

The vast potential of the Greater Bay Area's development also provides opportunities for governments and enterprises to advance their economic diversification agendas, deepen regional integration, boost investment and climb the ladder of innovation and value-added activity on the global stage, Pang added.

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At the risk of sounding like a Rep. Mike Simpson fan boy, I have to say, Im a fan.

As predicted, Washington, D.C., did not catch on to my Mike Simpson for Speaker column, but the House did the next best thing by rejecting Rep. Jim Jordan. Three times.

Ill take the win, even though Capitol Hill does not subscribe to either the Times-News or the Idaho State Journal as far as I know.

Simpson went a step further in a column last week by denouncing Idaho GOP Chairwoman Dorothy Moon and her disciples, who I affectionately refer to as the Moonies. Simpson rightfully called out the Radical Right-Wing Party by saying, Their actions paralyzed the Houses legislative business and left Republicans looking like we are incapable of governing.

He went on to say, Perhaps Chairwoman Dorothy Moon has not lived in Idaho long enough to understand how important things like agriculture, delisting wolves, our nations military, and the Idaho National Laboratory are for our state.

For those who dont know, Dorothy Moon is from Missouri (its the only endearing quality she has, as I am a Mizzou graduate), and once claimed that Canadians came down to Idaho to fraudulently vote in recent elections. As you might expect, our neighbors from the North put in a pretty lackluster effort as Donald Trump won the state with 64% of the vote in 2020, and Republicans swept the statewide and federal races two years later.

Quote I hate to say it, but Simpson is saying what the majority of us have been thinking for years. That brings us to the next question, and its a big one: Are we getting back to normal?

Canadians promptly apologized for their role in both outcomes.

Simpson went on to make the very salient point that, I cannot  and will not  support a speaker who has repeatedly taken positions against Idahos best interests. However, Chairwoman Moon made it clear this is the kind of speaker she would stand behind.

I hate to applaud the obvious, but Simpson makes a very cogent and reasonable point. He represents the people of the State of Idaho and he wont support someone who votes against the interests of Idahoans.

Job well done, as far as Im concerned. So, why the controversy?

Its pretty simple. The Radical Right-Wing Party does not care about Americans, let alone Idahoans. Im sorry to break this to you, but its true. Do you really think Jim Jordan or Dorothy Moon care about the Idaho National Lab? How about Idahos parks and open spaces? They sure dont care about our military, otherwise theyd be turning the screws on Sen. Tommy Tuberville for single-handedly blocking hundreds of military promotions.

I hate to say it, but Simpson is saying what the majority of us have been thinking for years. That brings us to the next question, and its a big one: Are we getting back to normal?

I sure hope so, but that begs another question: What took Republicans like Mike Simpson so long to call out the fringes of their party? Why did it take a once-in-a-lifetime situation (ousting the Speaker of the House) before people like Simpson would speak up?

Ive written many times in this column that a majority of our state adheres to Idaho Democratic values of freedom, security, and prosperity. Simpson would never admit to that out loud, but the fact that hes punching back against the Radical Right-Wing Party (finally) and putting America and Idaho ahead of party is heartening. Im not a Mike Simpson fanboy, but hes not bad.

I just wish he would have stood up before a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Better late than never, I suppose.

He may be an imperfect candidate (just like all of them), but I will repeat my call for Mike Simpson for Speaker of the House. He would do Idaho, and America, a real service.

Regardless of what the Moonies think.
The proposal to build a 400-turbine wind-generating facility in the Magic Valley has been met with almost unanimous opposition from local residents  I have yet to talk to one Magic Valley resident who supports it.

This comes as no surprise. The Biden Administration continues to push its renewable fuels agenda despite projects like these having numerous concerns. Bidens Bureau of Land Management needs to take a major step back on the Lava Ridge Wind Project proposal and listen to the Idahoans who would be most significantly impacted by it.

Critics of this project  and there are many  have cited numerous concerns about the Lava Ridge proposal.

POWER UP! Southern Idaho gets 'special' boost from renewable energy Federal incentives to increase renewable production have prompted a rush of companies looking to produce power in southern Idaho.

Filling the landscape with hundreds of 600-foot-tall wind turbines would significantly impact all other land uses. It could compromise the ability to use aircraft for fire suppression in an area prone to wildfires. It could threaten long-standing efforts to recover sage-grouse habitat and prevent efforts to keep the sage-grouse off the Endangered Species Act, efforts in which Idaho has been a leader for a decade and a half. It could upset the integrated resource plans of Idaho utilities and hurt existing electricity customers.

And it would undoubtedly dramatically impact the Minidoka National Historic Site. Affected farmers, tribes, sportsmen, conservationists, the Japanese-American community, and others have all expressed their opposition to this plan.

In choosing to prioritize renewable wind power over all other legitimate uses of this land, the BLM seems intent on changing the long-standing approach of managing public land for a variety of uses. For Idahoans, the concept of multiple-use land management is highly valued and deeply rooted in our way of life. It requires conservation, predictability of use, and support from local communities  all things threatened by a proposal to close off hundreds of square miles of public land to one specific use with very little if any, local support.

Because of my concern about BLMs failure to adequately engage those most affected by this project, I have taken significant actions to prevent the Biden Administration from rushing ahead with the proposal. I have used my position as Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, which oversees funding for the BLM, to shed light on the myriad concerns about this proposal.

This past spring, I questioned both BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning and U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland directly about Lava Ridge during the FY24 budget hearings. In my questioning, I highlighted ongoing concerns, including the projects lack of public support and the fact that this project would prioritize renewable energy development over all other land uses.

Quote I expect the BLM to listen to the concerns of Idahoans directly affected by the proposed Lava Ridge Wind Project ... and you can be confident that I stand with the Magic Valley in opposing it.

In order to force the BLM to slow down and acknowledge the concerns of the impacted communities, I included language in the FY24 House Interior and Environment Appropriations bill prohibiting funding to be used for such wind energy projects in Idaho until the U.S. Government Accountability Office  an independent, nonpartisan government agency  completes a report identifying the potential adverse effects of the project on wildlife, cultural resources, transportation, hunting, and other legitimate land uses.

Together with Sens. Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, Gov. Brad Little, and Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, earlier this year, I communicated my deep concerns to the Idaho BLM about this project and asked the state office to refocus its process to work with local communities and address their legitimate objections. I also requested that BLM extend the comment period for the Lava Ridge draft environmental impact statement to address stakeholder concerns over the proposal, a request that was granted.

The Biden Administration must be held accountable. It cannot continue to unilaterally ram through renewable energy projects with no local support, and with no forethought for their impact on other important land uses. I expect the BLM to listen to the concerns of Idahoans directly affected by the proposed Lava Ridge Wind Project and give those concerns considerable weight as the public comment period continues.

So far, this project has proven to be out of touch with Idaho values, and you can be confident that I stand with the Magic Valley in opposing it.
Hong Kong leader John Lee said Wednesday the semi-autonomous city would create its own national security law in 2024, four years after Beijing imposed sweeping legislation aimed at silencing dissent.

In a three-hour-plus policy address, the Beijing-anointed leader unveiled measures aimed at revitalising Hong Kongs Covid-ravaged economy and flagging population growth, while asserting the need to protect the Chinese city from external forces.

Some countries are undermining China and the implementation of one country, two systems in Hong Kong for their own benefits, he said, referring to the governance model agreed by Britain and China under which the city would keep some autonomy and freedoms following the 1997 handover.

External forces continue to meddle in Hong Kong affairs, he said.

We must guard against those seeking to provoke conflict and remain alert to acts of soft resistance in different forms, said Lee, using a phrase that China and Hong Kong officials have started deploying in speeches to denote anti-government actions.

Massive pro-democracy protests rocked the city in 2019, bringing hundreds of thousands of people to the streets to call for greater freedoms and more autonomy from mainland China.

In response, Beijing imposed a national security law with sentences ranging up to life in prison. As of the end of September, 280 people have been arrested and 30 convicted under the security law.

Security chief-turned-leader Lee  who is under US sanctions for his role in stamping out the protests  said Hong Kong would continue to safeguard national security.

The government is pressing ahead to draw up effective legislative options and will complete the legislative exercise in 2024 to fulfil our constitutional duty, Lee said.

Under the Basic Law  the citys mini-constitution  Hong Kong is required to implement its own law combating seven security-related crimes, including treason and espionage.

The task, often referred to as a constitutional responsibility by the citys government, has yet to be fulfilled more than 25 years after Hong Kongs return to Chinese rule.

The last legislative attempt in 2003 was shelved after half a million people took to the streets in protest.

Lee told reporters his administration would avoid a repeat of 2003 by (ensuring) that people will understand what the eventual legislation will do to protect them.

Thomas Kellogg, executive director of the Center for Asian Law at Georgetown University, said the new legislative push was a deeply disturbing development.

A new homegrown security law would give the Hong Kong government the chance to threaten an even broader array of individuals with legal penalties merely for exercising their basic rights, Kellogg said.

Lee also said Hong Kong would roll out patriotic education to enhance national identity.

His announcement came a day after Beijing passed a law to strengthen patriotic education for children and families as some people are at a loss about what is patriotism, said Chinas state-run Xinhua news agency.

 Housing and fertility 

Hong Kong  which in April finally dropped harsh anti-Covid restrictions that left the finance hub isolated  is set to resume growth this year, Lee said, adding that the first half of 2023 has seen the economy grow 2.2 percent.

He unveiled measures to boost the citys ailing property market amid falling real estate prices, slashing stamp duty by half to 7.5 percent for non-local buyers and Hong Kongers buying additional properties.

Hong Kongs long-standing problem of subdivided units  flats divided into small spaces in often dilapidated buildings  would also be tackled via a task force.

The issue of affordable housing remains one of the citys major policy roadblocks and something successive administrations have failed to tackle.

Lee also sounded the alarm on the persistently low birth rate in Hong Kong  which last year recorded its lowest number of births since records began in 1961  set against a population that has among the longest life expectancies in the world.

A one-off cash bonus of $20,000 (US$2,600) for each baby born today or after will be offered to Hong Kongers or parents who are permanent residents  a measure that will last for three years.

Researcher Tan Poh Lin said Singapores experience with using cash gifts to boost the fertility rate does not provide high confidence that many families would be convinced.

Given the size of the cash bonus, few couples are likely to respond by increasing fertility intentions But it is a supportive gesture that can alleviate some of the upfront costs, said Tan, a senior research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies at the National University of Singapore.
Washington, DC  Chinas top diplomat opens talks Thursday (Friday in Manila) in Washington as he readies a potential summit between Presidents Xi Jinping and Joe Biden, who ahead of talks vowed to defend Asian allies.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi is paying a rare high-level to Washington as the worlds two largest economies seek to manage, if not resolve, a host of disputes that repeatedly sent tensions soaring in recent years.

Wang will begin his visit by meeting Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who traveled to Beijing in June and will welcome his counterpart for a closed-door dinner.

Biden also issued a warning after the Philippines, a treaty-bound ally and former colony of the United States, said Chinese vessels deliberately hit Manilas boats in dispute-rife waters  an account disputed by Beijing.

Any attack on Filipino aircraft, vessels or armed forces will invoke our mutual defense treaty with the Philippines, Biden said.

On Friday, he will meet at the White House with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. No meeting has been announced with Biden but an encounter is widely expected after Xi received Blinken in Beijing.

Biden has invited Xi to visit San Francisco next month for a summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in what would be the leaders first meeting in a year.

US officials have repeatedly spoken of creating guardrails to prevent worst-case scenarios and have sought, without success, to restore contact between the two militaries, even as the powers disagree strongly on issues from trade to Taiwan.

Were going to compete with China (in) every way according to the international rules  economically, politically, in other ways. But Im not looking for conflict, Biden said Wednesday as he welcomed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Biden has championed alliances in the face of Chinas rise. He has forged a new three-way military alliance with Australia and Britain and promoted the Quad with Australia, India and Japan.

Biden said that he has previously spoken to Xi about the Chinese leaders concerns, telling him, No, were not surrounding China; were just making sure that the sea lanes remain open.

In Beijing, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning voiced hope that Wangs visit would help put relations with the United States back on the track of healthy and stable development.

Tensions have been particularly high over Taiwan, the self-ruling democracy claimed by Beijing which over the past year has launched major military exercises in response to actions by US lawmakers.

The United States has stepped up defense support of Taiwan, fearing that China is moving forward on plans to seize the island, although US officials hope that Russias struggles in Ukraine have given pause to Beijing.

The Biden administration is expected to renew warnings to Wang against China expanding support for Russia and also raise the Middle East, where US ally Israel has been pounding Gaza in response to attacks by Islamist militants Hamas.

China on Wednesday joined Russia in vetoing a US-led resolution at the Security Council which did not call explicitly for a ceasefire.

Washington has sought to turn the tables by pressing Beijing to do more in the region including by pressuring Irans clerical leadership, which backs Hamas.

The diplomacy with China comes as the United States enters an election season in which Bidens predecessor Donald Trump, who is seeking to return to the White House, has made hawkish criticism of Beijing a signature policy.

US allies, while often critical of China, have largely welcomed diplomacy to keep tensions in check.

Albanese plans to visit China shortly after his state visit to Washington as tensions ease between Canberra and Beijing, which had imposed tariffs on key Australian exports in a show of force over political disputes.

Albanese said it was important to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, but engage in our national interest.

It is in Australias interests as well as China  but I believe in the global interest  for us to have a relationship where there is dialogue, he said. AFP
Davao City Rep. Paolo Duterte on Thursday criticized anew a progressive legislator who filed a grave threat complaint against his father, former President Rodrigo Duterte.

I just wish that your passion to sensationalize this further is the same as your passion to protect farmers, innocent victims killed by the NPA, the younger Duterte said.

Rep. Duterte made the comment after Rep. France Castro of the ACT Teachers party-list, responded to his earlier observation that public servants should not be onion-skinned and should not make use of this right as a tool to silence critics.

Castro, who had filed a complaint for grave threats against the former President, hit back, saying being criticized is far from getting death threats.

Rep. Duterte justified his defense of his father, stressing that it is imperative upon me to stand by my family and protect my family. I think anybody would do that. .Thats where Im coming from.

Duterte also told Castro; You filed a case, let the court look at the merits. Simple as that. Like I said, it is your right. But I heard worse.

Rep. Duterte earlier pointed out that his father has received harsher and more humiliating criticisms in the past, but he never filed a case against anyone.

As public servants, we all are under scrutiny by the Filipino people. If the former President has said something that threatened her, then maybe she should come out clean, Duterte said.
The Philippines and the United Kingdom (UK) on Thursday signed a treaty that would allow prisoners to serve the remaining years of their jail terms in their home country.

The bilateral Treaty on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons was signed by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and British Ambassador to Manila Laure Beufils during a ceremony held at the Department of Justice.

The Treaty, aligning with international standards, offers a framework where individuals sentenced in one Contracting State can opt to serve their sentences in their native country, Remulla said in a statement.

The underlying rationale is that being closer to family, friends, and familiar culture can better facilitate the rehabilitation of the sentenced individuals, he added.

Under the accord, the DOJ chief said Filipinos convicted in the UK can now choose to serve their remaining sentences in the Philippines, easing their reintegration into society upon completion.

This Treaty stands as testament to the shared dedication of both countries in enhancing their mutual relations and commitments, he stressed.

The DOJ Secretary noted that the new treaty complements the already existing PH-UK Extradition Treaty and the PH-UK Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters which were signed in London in 2009.

Remulla recalled that prior to the signing the treaty on the transfer of sentenced persons, the DOJ hosted talks on the agreement last July 25 and 26 in Manila.

By the Special Authority issued on 21 July 2023, His Excellency Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. assigned Chief State Counsel Dennis Arvin L. Chan to helm the Negotiating Panel, the DOJ statement read.

Chan was joined by Assistant Chief State Counsel Mildred Bernadette B. Alvor, State Counsels Florina C. Agtarap, and Jennelyn D. Bilocura. Key officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) also played a pivotal role in the discussions, the DOJ said.

It added that the UK panel was led by Ministry of Justices Foreign National Office policy manager Sarah Wilson.
The Philippines will no longer pursue Chinese financing for a major railway line in Mindanao after learning that Beijings interest in the project has waned.

In a letter to the Chinese Embassy, the Department of Finance (DOF) said the Philippines is no longer inclined to pursue the Chinese ODA (official development assistance) financing for the Mindanao Railway Project Phase 1- Tagum-Davao-Digos Segment (MRP-TDDS).

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said his department is in talks with other foreign donors for the Mindanao Railway Project after the government decided not to pursue funding from the Chinese government.

Thats probably gone, Bautista said in Filipino, referring to Chinese funding.  Were talking to other possible ODA partners [to fund the project].

The P83-billion Mindanao Railway Project: Tagum-Davao-Digos segment of the Mindanao Railway, is expected to reduce travel time from Tagum City, Davao del Norte to Digos City, Davao del Sur from 3.5 hours to 1.3 hours once it starts operations.

A Chinese senior official had earlier expressed concern regarding geopolitical factors as the reason for the lack of progress in infrastructure projects with Beijing.

The other Chinese-funded projects that have yet to be implemented are the P142 billion Philippine National Railways South Long Haul Project and the P 51 billion Subic-Clark Railway Project.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) signed a P142 billion contract with Chinese companies to build the first 380 kilometers of the Philippine National Railway Bicol Project from Banlic, Calamba to Daraga, Albay in January 2022.

Former Transportation secretary Arthur Tugade signed the design-build contract with the joint venture of China Railway Group Ltd., China Railway No. 3 Engineering Group Co. Ltd. and China Railway Engineering Consulting Group Co. Ltd. The agreement covered the design, construction and electromechanical works of the project.

The first 380 kilometers of PNR Bicol from Banlic, Calamba to Daraga, Albay will span 39 cities and municipalities, four provinces and two regions. It will involve the construction of 23 stations, 230 bridges, 10 passenger tunnels and a 70-hectare depot in San Pablo, Laguna.

The P51-billion Subic-Clark Railway Project, on the other hand, will cut the travel time between Clark in northern Pampanga province and Manila from two to three hours by bus to one hour by train, with a maximum rail speed of up to 160 kilometers per hour.
The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) political party of Speaker Martin Romualdez has condemned in the strongest possible terms the latest aggressive actions of China in the West Philippine Sea.

We, the members of the Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD), condemn in the strongest possible terms the illegal and blatant actions of the China Coast Guard and the Chinese maritime militia last Oct. 22, 2023, in the waters near the vicinity of the Ayungin Shoal, the political party said in a statement Wednesday.

A Chinese Coast Guard vessel hit a Philippine Navy-contracted boat ferrying supplies to BRP Sierra Madre while another vessel of the Chinese maritime militia also bumped the Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Cabra.

Said actions seriously endangered the lives and safety of Filipinos on board said vessels. The illegal and dangerous maneuvers of the Chinese vessels clearly violated the international conventions on the prevention of collisions at seas, the party said.

Romualdez, president of Lakas-CMD and Leytes 1st district representative, earlier denounced the intentional maneuvers of the Chinese vessels, saying such actions not only jeopardized the lives of those onboard but also threatened regional peace and stability.

For his part, Rep. Brian Yamsuan urged fellow lawmakers to support the approval of a measure that would delineate the Philippines archipelagic sea lanes as a means to bar the unauthorized passage of foreign vessels within the countrys territorial waters and airspace.

We join Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez in strongly condemning Chinas reckless and dangerous actions in the West Philippine Sea. These acts pose a threat to regional peace and stability and are blatant violations of international law, said Yamsuan, a member of the House Special Committee on the West Philippine Sea.

While China continues to disregard our freedom of navigation within our own exclusive economic zone (EEZ), we should act quickly to ensure that such actions do not embolden them to encroach on our territorial waters and conduct any kind of activity without the permission of our government, he added.

Yamsuan said establishing the Philippines archipelagic sea lanes and implementing a Maritime Zones Act would strengthen the Philippines position with respect to obligating other countries to comply with the provisions of international law.

In May, the House passed on third and final reading House Bill (HB) 7819 or the proposed Maritime Zones Act, which provides for a general declaration of the maritime zones under the jurisdiction of the Philippines. These include its internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial sea, contiguous zone, EEZ and continental shelf.

On the other hand, HB 9034 designates the sea lanes and air routes in the West Philippine Sea for the continuous and speedy travel of foreign ships and aircraft exercising their right of innocent passage.
Resilience is not just a word, it is a way of life. It is a commitment to ensure that we have the responsibilities to others and that no one is left behind, said SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI) Chairman of the Executive Committee and Chairperson of ARISE Philippines and the National Resilience Council (NRC), Hans Sy.

In celebration of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) last October 13, 2023, Mr. Sy underscored the collective action and commitment of the private and public sectors toward achieving a sustainable and resilient nation during the 10th Top Leaders Forum held at the SMX Convention Center in Manila.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga

Organized by ARISE Philippines, SMPHI, NRC, and its partner agencies, the Top Leaders Forum centered around the theme of Transforming Victims to Victors: A Multi-Sectoral Approach to Inclusive Resilience emphasizing collaborative efforts for disaster resilience.

Policies into action

One of the events highlights was the panel sessions, which brought together experts and leaders to discuss critical topics related to resilience. These topics included Environmental, Social, and Governance; Food-Water-Energy Nexus and DRR; Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Resilience Framework; Synergy for Inclusive Resilience; and Innovative Technologies and Resilience.

Shaila Shahid from Bangladesh is an environmental lawyer working globally to reduce the disaster risks for the urban poor.

Disaster risk reduction innovations

The Marketplace showcased DRR solutions from various sectors, such as government, embassies, and local establishments. Each participant had a booth to showcase their diverse DRR tools.

The Ignite Stage allowed selected participants to present their DRR initiatives. Sessions covered five themes: The Power of Resilience; Global Resilience Initiatives: Discussing Efforts and Strategies for Building Resilience on a Global Scale; Private Move, Private Action: Private Sector Initiatives to Resilience; Local Moves, Local Action: Local Government Units Resilience; and Resilience 301: National Government Action to Resilience.

From left: Xavier University Vice President for Social Development Engr. Dexter Lo, Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. President Maribeth Marasigan, Philippine Space Agency Director General Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., and Department of Science and Technology Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum

Recognizing womens resilience

The 2023 Womens International Network (WIN) for DRR Leadership Awards acknowledged the remarkable women in the Asia-Pacific region for their achievements in DRR. This initiative is an integral part of the pioneering WIN DRR program, supported by the Australian government.

From left: Broadcast journalist Ces Orena Drilon, Department of Energy Chief of Solar and Wind Energy Management Ferdinand Binondo, International Institute for Rural Reconstruction Country Director Emelita Monville Oro, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources Undersecretary Carlos Primo David

It encompasses two categories: the prestigious Excellence Award, sponsored by SMPHI, and the promising Rising Star Award. SMPHI endorsed the 2023 WIN DRR Excellence Award, offering a substantial USD 10,000 prize to recognize an exceptional woman excelling in the realm of DRR.

From left: Philippine Disaster Foundation President Rene Butch Meily, former Zamboanga City Mayor Ma. Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, and Unilever Chairman Benjie Yap

This year, Shaila Shahid from Bangladesh received the esteemed 2023 WIN DRR Excellence Award. Her exceptional contributions to DRR have made a resounding impact across the Asia-Pacific region.

Abia Akram from Pakistan, a dedicated advocate for women with disabilities for over 25 years, was honored with the prestigious 2023 WIN DRR Rising Star Award.

Abia Akram from Pakistan is a disability rights activist, known for founding the National Forum of Women with Disabilities in Pakistan.

To know more about SM Supermalls disaster risk reduction programs, visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.
Home Credit Philippines (HCPH), one of the Philippines leading consumer finance companies, is celebrating its 10th anniversary of delivering Isang Dekadang Saya to the Filipinos.

Launched in 2013, the countrys trusted financial ally has now served over 10 million customers and has stood as a lifestyle partner of the Filipinos through a continuous journey of innovation and financial opportunities.

With this unwavering commitment to providing Filipinos access to easy and trusted financial options, HCPH has consistently innovated its services to offer customers fast and convenient credit access, enabling them to pursue the life they desire.

Home Credit has also taken strides to enhance its product and service offerings to adapt to the ever-evolving needs of consumers.

In celebration of its 10th year of being the financial ally to many, here are the five innovative ways Home Credit has given the Filipinos opportunities to embrace the quality of life they want.

Fast approval time

As a lifestyle partner, Home Credit is known for its fast product installment approval process to ensure that individuals can easily realize their needs. When the company established its presence in the country in 2013, the approval process took 20 minutes, a processing time that was further reduced to just 10 minutes in 2016.

Today, Home Credit has reached new heights by providing a remarkably convenient one-minute approval for product loans.

This fast service only requires one valid identification card and is available at over 15,000 outlets across more than 75 provinces nationwide. With this efficient service, Filipinos can achieve their desired lifestyle with less hassle and quickly.

One-stop destination for lifestyle products

To cater to the changing consumer needs, the company continues to broaden its range of point-of-sale offerings, making sure that Filipinos have access to a comprehensive selection of products.

Initially, Home Credit began with just four pilot commodities: televisions, computers and laptops, mobile phones, and home appliances.

The company has since expanded its offerings to encompass an array of commodities, including bikes, musical instruments, furniture, dental care, cosmetic care and optical services.

It also caters to sporting goods and hardware tools, and car repair and maintenance. This establishes Home Credit as a one-stop shop for a wide range of lifestyle products, showcasing over 6,000 partner brands and retailers.

First non-bank financial institution to issue credit cards

In its effort to deliver world-class consumer finance services to Filipinos, Home Credit has achieved a significant milestone in 2019 by becoming the first standalone non-bank institution approved by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to issue credit cards in the country.

This achievement allows Filipinos to enjoy secure transactions, to empower their lifestyles. Home Credit Card is widely accepted by VISA-affiliated merchants across the globe.

More innovative solutions, services to empower Filipinos lives

When the pandemic happened in 2020, Home Credit swiftly adopted new ways to better serve customers who were increasingly turning to digital means to meet their needs.

This was when the company unveiled the My Home Credit App, equipped with various features designed to cater to consumers financial needs anytime and anywhere.

With this app, consumers can easily apply for product and cash loans from the comforts of their homes. As it is integrated with the website shoppingmall.ph, Filipinos can also effortlessly browse and purchase gadgets and appliances with just a few taps.

Additionally, the app provides access to Home Credit Qwarta, a virtual credit line, offering users additional financial flexibility. Qualified Home Credit customers can also utilize their Qwarta to purchase loads with discounts, settle bills with over 200 billers, and even make payments for items via QR codes for a hassle-free shopping experience.

An advocate of financial literacy

In addition to providing access to financial services, Home Credit is also committed to advancing financial literacy in the country. In 2016, the company initiated its Juan, Two, Three Financial Literacy Program, designed to impart fundamental financial management knowledge to diverse barangays across the nation.

Building on this foundation, Home Credit introduced its Wais sa Home: Financial Literacy and Consumer Protection Program in 2022, which encompassed a multi-faceted approach to promoting financial literacy.

This initiative covered different platforms, including online, on-air, and on ground. With this initiative, the company reached 20 million Filipinos nationwide.

Indeed, Home Credit has witnessed significant growth over the years. While it continues to evolve, the company remains dedicated to empowering Filipinos financially, continuously enhancing many lives along the way.

To know more about the latest updates from Home Credit Philippines, visit its official website, www.homecredit.ph. You may also follow its official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok accounts. Customers are also encouraged to download the My Home Credit App on Google Play to learn more about the latest promos and see whats new in the Marketplace.

Home Credit Philippines is a financing company duly licensed and supervised by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).
As the peak season for international travel approaches, Globe is expanding its roam-like-a-local offer with GoRoam, launching the service in Malaysia after earlier rolling out in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Thailand.

GoRoam is Globes response to the growing demand for affordable international roaming services. With GoRoams country-specific offers crafted to match local SIM card rates, travelers can enjoy seamless connectivity without the hassle of switching SIMs during their trips.

Globe users traveling to Malaysia may now avail of the GoRoam offer at PHP800 for 5GBs, valid for 10 days.

Early this year, Globe also launched GoRoam in these destinations:

 Taiwan: PHP600 for 2.4GBs, valid for 10 days

 Thailand: PHP800 for 15GBs, valid for 8 days

 Hong Kong: PHP600 for 3GBs, valid for 5 days

These packages are meticulously crafted to align with the rates, data allotment, and validity periods of local SIMs in the respective countries.

With GoRoam, theres no longer a need to juggle between SIM cards when traveling abroad since Globe has effectively bridged the gap in terms of convenience and compelling value. GoRoam underscores our unwavering dedication to enhance the roaming experience for Pinoy travelers, said Coco Domingo, Vice President of Postpaid and International Business at Globe.

Filipinos going abroad can now leave behind the hassles of swapping SIM cards, renting pocket WiFis, navigating unfamiliar mobile settings, or missing connections with loved ones. With GoRoam, users retain their original SIM, sidestepping the fuss of configuring a new one. The service guarantees uninterrupted connectivity, elevating the international travel experience to unparalleled levels of ease and connection.

To enjoy the GoRoam offers, Postpaid and Prepaid travelers can easily register via the GlobeOne app.

To learn more about Globe Roaming offers, visit glbe.co/roam.
Whether he was putting out fires in Marion or delighting audiences on the theatrical stage, Jim Neal was a hero to all who knew him. He left a tremendous legacy in the local community that will be long remembered.

Retired Marion Fire Chief Jim Neal died on Saturday, Oct. 21, at age 77 after struggling with an inoperable cancer, which proved to be the veteran firemans last and most courageous battle.

Marions top firefighter

In his career with the city, Jim Neal devoted more than 50 years of service to the Marion Fire Department, first as a firefighter and later becoming its chief.

When I think of the fire service, Jim Neal immediately comes to mind, said City Manager Bob Boyette. Jim dedicated his entire adult life serving the Marion Fire Department, for a total of 54 years, the longest service with the city of Marion of anyone in history. Jim loved the Fire Department, the firefighters and serving his community. More importantly, you would be hard pressed to find a better man. Jim made a significant difference in our community for more than half a century. Jim will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

His many years with the Marion Fire Department started in the summer of 1969. During that time, the young Neal was busy helping with the recovery from Hurricane Camille along the Gulf Coast as part of his service in the Army Reserve. And on June 19, 1969, Neal became a member of the Marion Fire Department. He was just 22 years old, according to a 2009 story by The McDowell News.

He was following in the footsteps of his father, who a few years later would retire from the department in 1973 with 20 years of experience. Neal said in 2009 he had always wanted to be a firefighter like his dad.

Like the others, he started out as a volunteer. Back then, the department had just 20 members and was housed in one section of the old City Hall building on Logan Street. They had only three trucks in 1969: a 1954 Dodge John Bean pumper truck and two Maxim trucks. The department also had an old Army surplus weapons carrier that was used as a tanker. Fire Chief Glenn Laughridge also had his car as well, according to the 2009 story.

In the early 1970s, the Marion Area Fire District was created, which added about 12 to 13 new members. They were all volunteers.

Since he was a volunteer, Neal worked as an insurance agent for his regular day job. But his heart was truly with the fire service.

One night in November 1973 stood out in his memory. It was a regular meeting night for the department and the more experienced members, like Neal, were trying to get these new MA firefighters up to speed about what their duties would be. Suddenly, the department got a call about a big fire at the Kress department store in the Lady Marian Plaza. That night, the new members were about to get a fast and hard lesson in how to be a firefighter.

We had just taken on those new firefighters, Neal said in 2009. They got a baptism by fire, literally.

With the exception of the great fire of 1894, the year 1976 was perhaps the worst year for fires in Marions history. During that year, a blaze at the prison camp on N.C. 226 South killed four inmates at the scene. About five or six inmates were transported to the hospital and died later.

In 2009, Neal described that experience as horrendous.

Then came the massive Broyhill plant fire. Although no one was hurt or killed in that huge blaze, it consumed the plant complex along West Henderson Street and the smoke could be seen for miles. Fire departments from all over came to help Marion put out the huge inferno. Television news stations and newspaper reporters from throughout the region converged on Marion to cover the event.

Neal also remembered the blaze that burned the old Marion High School building on West Court Street during the 1980s. That building stood where the McDowell County Rec Center stands now.

Neal worked as a volunteer for much of his time as a firefighter. He was later promoted to lieutenant about the time his father died. In the mid-1970s, he became captain and held that rank until he was named as the next chief.

In March 2002, he was sworn in as the new fire chief for the city of Marion. By that time, he had devoted more than 32 years as a volunteer with the Marion Fire Department.

The Marion fire station moved into its own building at the corner of Logan and West Court streets with much more space and modern facilities. By 2009, the department had 33 members.

Its been an exciting 40 years, Neal said to then-Mayor Everette Clark and the City Council in 2009. Youre only as good as the people you have and Ive got to tell you, Ive got the best.

Ten years later, he would retire from his service with the fire department. In 2019, a reception to honor him was held at the Marion Community Building.

Throughout his years as a firefighter, Neal suffered only two injuries, none of which were serious. He got a burn on the back of his neck in the 1990s while fighting a lumber fire in Woodlawn. In July 2006, he tripped over a hose and sprained his wrist.

Ive been very lucky in that respect, he said in 2009.

Firefighters have a special bond because they work together to save lives and property. It takes a special kind of person to run toward a burning building that others are running away from. In addition to answering alarms and responding to fires, the department conducts fire inspections of commercial and institutional buildings following state law.

Even after he retired, Jim Neal could still be seen at the fire station assisting in some way.

In a previous interview, Neal attributed the success and expertise he had a firefighter to his predecessors as chief: Glenn Laughridge, Arthur Edwards and Tom Milligan.

I learned a lot from them, he said in 2009.

Upon his retirement, the city announced that Ray McDaniel would succeed Neal as the new fire chief.

To me, he was the logical choice, Neal said of McDaniel in 2019. I groomed him for the job for the last 10 years or so. Hes done an excellent job as my assistant and he did an excellent job while I was on leave. It should be a very smooth transition.

McDaniel worked under Neal from 2004 to 2019.

Jim was a very humble man and would try his best to help anyone that asked, said McDaniel to The McDowell News. As his assistant chief for the last 10 years of his full-time employment sometimes I would question him helping so much but I realized he was just that type of person. He never wanted to say no to helping someone professionally or personally. Jim took to heart that God gave us two ears and one mouth so that we could listen twice as much as we speak. There would be many times a conversation would be going on and Jim would not comment because he knew he just didn't need to say anything.

He was dedicated to the people of Marion for 50 years, a record that I will not attempt to break, said McDaniel. Many times he would tell stories about major fires the department was on and all of us at the station would listen to them each time to make sure we knew the history of the department and how the road was paved for some of us new to the department. Jim will be greatly missed and we will tell Jim Neal stories for years to come. He will be greatly missed but he is in Heaven with his Savior.

Star of the Foothills stage

When he was not working as a firefighter or an insurance agent, Jim Neal kept himself busy as an actor and a director with Foothills Community Theatre. He participated in numerous Foothills productions both on the stage and behind the scenes.

Elizabeth House acted alongside Neal in many of those productions by Foothills.

I have so many good memories of working with Jim in Foothills Community Theatre plays through the years, House said to The McDowell News. When he directed Harvey, I played a small role and learned so much about comedy from him and the excellent ensemble he put together.

She added Neals comic timing was impeccable. He played the father in Neil Simons Come Blow Your Horn, the irascible Oscar Madison in Simons The Odd Couple and the brother who thought he was Teddy Roosevelt in Arsenic and Old Lace.

Whether the part was large or small, Jim was a master at making the most of every moment, said House. During a performance of Rumors, he proved how unflappable he was onstage when a prop bag of pretzels accidentally burst in his hands, and he just went right on with his lines and made the scene even funnier than how Neil Simon had written it.

Neal also supported the theatrical group backstage and offstage by helping build sets, playing drums in the orchestra for numerous musicals, and directing several shows, including staging Steel Magnolias as a fundraiser after it had several extremely successful runs for Foothills Community Theatre, said House. One of his final roles was as Norman in On Golden Pond, and he showed he could beautifully portray the poignant moments just as well as the comic ones, she added.

Sandra Epperson is the former executive director of MACA who worked closely with Jim Neal on numerous Foothills plays.

Jims participation in the Foothills Community Theatre gave the group stability, humor, kindness, leadership and many successful shows both on stage and behind the scenes, Epperson said to The McDowell News. His presence in a production guaranteed there was someone on board who would observe and improve the play.

Jim loved FCT and we loved him. He was generous with his talent and with his encouragement. His willingness to do whatever task was needed inspired the participants, and his sensible guidance when managing the group became challenging was a blessing in my life.

Epperson said she remembers how he could be mischievous.

In one memorable production of Arsenic and Old Lace Jim played the slightly deranged Teddy Brewster, she said. In the last performance, Jim replaced a stuffed moose head prop with a similar plaque depicting the opposite end of the moose. Poor Jim Robinson carried the substitute plaque down the stairs without a qualm.

Epperson also remembers how Neal made the scene with the bag in Rumors even funnier.

During the production of Rumors, Jims character was supposed to struggle to open a large bag of potato chips, which his wife then entered and opened with ease, she said. The bag was rigged to open easily, so while Jim was struggling to open it, he also had to make sure it did not open prematurely. One evening, he put the bag under his arm to hold it while he pretended to battle with it. The bag burst open from the back end, and Jim saiddirectly to the audience  Pretend you didnt see that.

Probably the most popular play he was involved with was Steel Magnolias, which he directed. The cast included Epperson, Leslie Neff, Susan Childers (then Susan Bradburn), Lesa Silver, Kay Sinclair and his future wife Dianne Neal. The comedy-drama about tough and courageous Southern women was so popular it was performed on different occasions to sell-out audiences.

Acting under his direction in Steel Magnolias 33 years ago has brought me, personally, lasting joy and undying friendship, Epperson told The McDowell News. Though Jim will be missed in the future of Foothills Community Theatre, the legacy he has left the group is unending.

I have such happy memories of Jim Neal due to his participation in so many Foothills Community Theatre productions, said friend Annette Bryant. He was funny, he was brash and he was serious, depending on the role.

Dedicated volunteer

Annette Bryants radio station WBRM AM 1250 helped promote those productions over the airwaves. Like Neal, Bryant has been a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Marion.

His leadership in Rotary was always appreciated because Jim told it like he saw or felt it, Bryant said to The McDowell News. Jim was everybodys friend. Once at a year-end banquet at Switzerland Inn, he asked me to take a picture of him and his wife Dianne. Im so glad he asked!

Mayor Steve Little said his first memories of Jim Neal, after he moved to Marion in 1977 after graduating from Wake Forest Law School, was seeing him in a couple of community theater productions.

Then I learned he was an insurance agent with McDowell Insurance Agency, Little said. For a few years, McDowell Insurance Agency used the voice of Raymond Burr (Perry Mason on TV) in their radio promotion spots on WBRM. I remember thinking that Jim Neal must have been the person who convinced Raymond Burr to do the radio ads for McDowell Insurance  but I really have no idea. I always thought of Jim when I heard those radio ads.

Then I learned of Jims dedicated service as a volunteer fireman for the Marion Fire Department, added the mayor. I was amazed that one person could be so active in the community and do so much for so many people  entertain them in theater plays, protect their property with insurance, and provide fire protection as a trained volunteer fire firefighter.

Over the years, Little learned more and more of the total commitment Jim Neal had to helping people.

He never gave out of energy and never gave up, said Little. I respected and admired Jim Neal. He was an example of an ultimate public servant. No one person will ever be able to replace Jim.

Speaking with The McDowell News, Dianne Neal said her late husband carried his theater experience over to their church, Victory Temple Full Gospel Church. There, he was a Sunday School teacher both as a regular one and a substitute. Together, they were directors for the Child Evangelism Fellowship also known as Good News Clubs. Through this ministry, they would serve Avery, McDowell, Mitchell and Yancey counties through the Mountain Chapter.

We share Jesus Christ with the public school children, said Dianne Neal. (Jim Neal) has reached many individuals. We have friends from all over the world. His outreach has just been phenomenal. He was passionate about the children knowing Christ.

For a lot of years, he was a part of a mens Bible study fellowship in Asheville.

Dianne Neal spoke about how her brave husband, who made a living of fighting fires, faced the most courageous struggle of his life after he was diagnosed with inoperable cancer. He was a courageous man to the day he died.

He has left a legacy beyond anything I could ever hope for, said Dianne Neal of her late husband. Besides being a child of the most high God, the greatest privilege of my life was being married to Jim.
Sierra Leones President Julius Maada Bio has pledged to fully implement an internationally-brokered agreement with the opposition to overcome tensions exacerbated by his disputed re-election. He also affirmed the need to review the electoral system.

Julius Maada, first elected in 2018, was re-elected in June 2023 in the first round, with 56.17% of the vote according to results published by the Electoral commission. However, foreign observers denounced inconsistencies and a lack of transparency in the count, as well as acts of violence and intimidation.

The main opposition party, the All Peoples Congress Party (APC), deemed the presidential, as well as legislative and local, elections rigged, and decided to boycott parliament and local councils.

Last week, the government and the APC reached an agreement under the mediation of the Commonwealth, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The APC agreed to end its boycott in exchange for an end to politically-motivated detentions and court cases.

They also agreed to set up an inter-party committee to review the June elections with the partners involved in the mediation. On Tuesday October 24 evening, Mr. Bio affirmed the need to put aside (differences), and called for unity and reconciliation.

The provisions of the agreement will be given the highest attention by my government, he said. The government will work with the main opposition party and all other political parties to ensure that it (the agreement) is implemented in its entirety. Re-examining our electoral system is essential to strengthen our democracy, he added.
Nigeria needs more than 250,000 doctors to meet the ratio of one doctor to 600 patients recommended by the WHO. In Nigeria, where there are less than 100,000 doctors, there are more than 3,000 people per doctor.

The federal authorities are going to call on the contractual services of already retired health workers to make up for the shortage of qualified doctors in public hospitals.

The National Hospital in Abuja has not been spared the crisis. General management confirms that three to four nurses are resigning or leaving the countrys largest hospital each week for outside employment.

The Minister is also disturbed by this crisis, and has given instructions to reinstate retired medical staff in the hospitals, explains Dr. Tayo Haastrup, the hospitals spokesperson.

The difficulties of the Nigerian healthcare system are well documented and have been affecting the quality and number of doctors available locally for decades. According to the President of the Union of Resident Doctors at the National Hospital Abuja, Dr. Alaomaru Falawale, some seven hundred new doctors would have to be recruited or brought in to make up the shortfall.

At least 2,000 Nigerian doctors emigrate every year to the United States, the United Kingdom or Canada, says the WHO. Since 2019, Nigerian newspapers have reported recruitment operations carried out by Saudi officials in Lagos and Abuja.

Only some 72,000 doctors are registered with the Nigerian Medical Association, although around 3,000 graduate from Nigerian medical schools every year. Worse still, Nigeria, a country of over 200 million inhabitants, has only 35,000 doctors, a ratio of one doctor for every 10,000 inhabitants.

This figure is far from sufficient for the WHO, which recommends a ratio of one doctor for every 500 patients.
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

Artificial intelligence can help health care systems under pressure allocate limited resources, but also lead to more unequal access. This is demonstrated by a research collaboration between the University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet and DTU that investigated whether AI can spot the risk of depression equally across different population segments. The research presents options for combing algorithms for bias prior to their deployment.

Artificial intelligence is making sure but steady headway in the health care system. MRI scans have already been made more effective by AI and Danish hospitals are now testing AI to make rapid emergency room diagnoses and better cancer diagnoses and therapies. But this is just the beginning.

On August 14, the Danish Minister of the Interior and Health, Sophie Lhde, stated that she envisions a future in which AI relieves beleaguered Danish health care system.

In hospitals and psychiatry, one of the tasks that AI is well suited to help improve is the allocation of limited funds through risk analyses and rankings which can ensure, for example, that therapies are provided to the patients where they can be most effective.

AI is already being used in other countries to assess who should receive treatment for depression. It is a development that could be on the way to a Danish mental health system under pressure.

Now, however, University of Copenhagen researchers are calling upon politicians for reflection, so that AI does not lead to more inequality or become an instrument for cold economic calculations. They point out that carelessness could make help a disservice.

"Artificial intelligence has great potential, but we need to be careful because blindly implementing it can distort the health care system in new ways that are difficult to see, as the results can appear to be correct at first glance," says Melanie Ganz from the University of Copenhagen's Department of Computer Science and Rigshospitalet.

Invisible discrimination

In a new research article, she, along with her co-authors, documents how hidden biases sneak into an algorithm designed to calculate the risk of depression.

Together with colleagues from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), the researchers developed the algorithm based upon algorithm design already being used in health care systems. Based on actual diagnoses of depression, the algorithm predicts people's risk of developing depression.

"In other countries, it is becoming more and more common to look at how to detect and prevent depression at an early stage. In the US, for example, AI is increasingly being used by private insurers to prioritize resources, a development that will likely come to Denmark in the near future. The question is, how fair will the foundation for such a prioritization actually be," says co-author Sune Holm from the Department of Food and Resource Economics.

The researchers used depression as a case study to investigate how we can evaluate the algorithms that we use both within the health care system and elsewhere in society, so that we can identify and adjust problems in time and make algorithms fairer before they are used.

"The right algorithms, if properly trained, can become tremendous assets for any municipality with limited resources. But our research shows that if machine learning isn't well managed, it can skew access to treatment, so that some groups are overlooked or even left out," says Melanie Ganz.

The study shows that the algorithm has an easier time spotting the risk of depression in certain groups of citizens than in others based on the variables they are trained ine.g. education, gender, ethnicity and a number of other variables. Indeed, the algorithm's ability to identify the risk of depression varied by up to 15% between different groups.

"This means that even a region or municipality, which in good faith introduces an algorithm to help allocate treatment options, can distort any such health care effort," says Melanie Ganz.

The algorithm can be a measurable success because it allocates resources to those who are in actual need. But at the same time, it could have hidden biases that exclude or deprioritize certain groups, without it being visible to those who are managing it.

At worst, AI systems can become an instrument of cold calculation. The choice of certain algorithms could be used to conceal the prioritization of resources for certain societal groups over others.

Tool to ensure fair algorithms

Sune Holm points out that AI also presents some fundamental ethical dilemmas.

"If we begin using these systems, it will be important to clarify who is responsible for prioritizing resources and individual therapeutic regimens should they be the result of algorithms. Furthermore, it could be difficult for a doctor to explain to a patient why a decision was made if the algorithm itself is incomprehensible," says Sune Holm.

While the research contributes theoretically to an area of machine learning that deals with algorithmic discrimination across groups, the methods are also a robust tool for checking up on the quality of algorithm fairness.

"The methods we've developed can be used as a concrete prescription to evaluate the fairness of algorithms before they are used in, for example, municipalities and regions. In this way, we hope that the research can contribute to having the right tools in place for when the algorithms really make their entry into this area," says Melanie Ganz.

"Both politicians and citizens must be aware not only of the benefits, but also the pitfalls associated with the use of AI. So, one can be critical instead of just 'swallowing the pill' without further ado," says Sune Holm.

He believes there may be a need to ensure that the use of an algorithm has a documented positive effect on patients before investing in implementing it. For example, it should be clear how it can add value to the clinical practice that it is a part of.

The study is published in the journal 2023 ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency.

More information: Eike Petersen et al, On (assessing) the fairness of risk score models, 2023 ACM Conference on Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (2023). DOI: 10.1145/3593013.3594045
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Bielefelder rooster with mark. The pink mark in the "triangle-region" between the wattles was applied with colored starch powder. Credit: PLOS ONE (2023). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291416

Scrape, cluck, lay eggsthat's it? Anyone involved in chicken farming knows that the animals are capable of much more. Researchers at the Universities of Bonn and Bochum, together with the MSH Medical School Hamburg, have found evidence that roosters could recognize themselves in a mirror. Whether this is successful, however, depends on the experimental conditionsa finding that points beyond the experiment with roosters and could also be of importance for other animal species. The study is now published in the journal PLOS ONE.

"Whether animals can recognize themselves and thus have self-awareness is one of the central questions in behavioral research," says doctoral student Sonja Hillemacher, who together with her colleague Dr. Inga Tiemann has been scientifically investigating the husbandry of chickens for years at the Institute of Agricultural Engineering at the University of Bonn. The idea of experimenting with chickens in front of a mirror came to the scientists together with Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Onur Gunturkun from the Department of Biopsychology at the Ruhr University in Bochum.

A common test for self-recognition in front of a mirror is the so-called "mark test." For example, a colored mark is placed on the animal's head that the individual can only recognize in front of a mirror. If the animal begins to explore the marked area on its body in front of the mirror, this is considered proof that it has recognized its reflection as itself. However, this test does not always work. Some animals that are believed to be self-aware take no notice of the mirror. Perhaps because they feel uncomfortable in the "artificial" experimental environment?

Adapting the experiment to ecologically relevant behavior

"Our goal was to conduct the mirror test in an environment that is better adapted to the ecologically relevant behavior of the chickens," says Dr. Inga Tiemann. Prof. Onur Gunturkun came up with the idea of using a natural behavior of the feathered fowl for the experiment: "Some chickens, but especially roosters, warn their conspecifics by special calls when a predatorsuch as a bird of prey or foxappears."

On the other hand, if the roosters are confronted with the predator alone, they usually remain silent to avoid attracting the attention of the predator themselves and becoming victims. "The alarm call is the perfect behavior to integrate into a more ecologically relevant test of self-awareness," says the biopsychologist from Bochum University.

The research team first wanted to check whether the roosters really emit alarm calls in the presence of a conspecific and stay silent when they are alone. For this purpose, the researchers from the University of Bonn set up a test arena on the Campus Frankenforst. A grid separated two compartments through which the roosters could see each other. Then a bird of prey was projected onto the ceiling of one compartment.

The researchers tested 58 roosters. To statistically validate the results, the experiment was repeated three times with each rooster. In total, the roosters emitted 77 alarm calls in the presence of a conspecificbut only 17 when they were alone. "Some of the animals are bolder, others more fearful," says Sonja Hillemacher. "But the result shows that most roosters do indeed alert in the presence of a conspecific when a predator is in sight."

The next step was to place a mirror between the two compartments instead of the grid. How did the roosters respond in the presence of their mirror image and a bird of prey? Again, the test was performed three times with each animal. In all, only 25 alarm calls were emitted during 174 trials. "This proves that the roosters did not mistake their reflection for a conspecific," says Sonja Hillemacher.

The result is an indication that the roosters possibly recognized themselves in their mirror image. However, there is at least theoretically the possibility that the animals saw in their image a strange animal that mimics their own behavior, and therefore the alarm call was omitted. "Here are still further investigations required," adds Inga Tiemann. For comparison, the team also performed the classic mark test: Here, the roosters showed no behavior that would indicate they recognized themselves in the mirror.

The research team sees clear evidence in the results that the classic mirror-mark test yields more reliable results when the behavior of the particular species is embedded into an ecologically relevant context. "In the classical situation, a rooster may not show self-recognition," says Onur Gunturkun. "But when a predator threatens him, it becomes clear that his reflection is not another rooster, but himself."

This approach could also be relevant for other animal species. Further research on self-recognition and self-awareness in animals is also an important basis for the discussion on animal rights and animal welfare, the researchers said.

More information: Sonja Hillemacher et al, Roosters do not warn the bird in the mirror: The cognitive ecology of mirror self-recognition, PLOS ONE (2023). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291416 Journal information: PLoS ONE

Provided by Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universitat Bonn
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Many frontline health care workers in the United States experienced food insecurity and other significant financial challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a recent study led by UNC Greensboro (UNCG) researcher Mathieu Despard and published in Compensation & Benefits Review.

Despard said he and his collaboratorsDr. Haotian Zheng and Dr. Sophia Fox-Dichter at Washington University in St. Louiswere surprised by their findings, especially their discovery that a higher salary did not necessarily shield a health care worker from struggling to make ends meet.

"You can be a frontline health care worker with a college degree and making decent money within health care, but that does not mean that you're not going to have problems like trouble paying your rent," Despard said.

Among 2,321 frontline health care workers, whose incomes ranged from less than $25k to over $75k, one-third experienced food insecurity, one-fifth had difficulty paying their bills and medical care hardship, and one-quarter experienced housing hardship.

Despard said multi-pronged pressures contribute to health care workers' financial difficulties across salary ranges. "Income only tells part of the story," he says. "We're talking about people who may be struggling with student debt, childcare, and unaffordable housing."

The researchers also investigated an often-overlooked factor in assessments of financial well-being: workers' access to benefits.

"When we have this conversation about a living wage, we tend to think in terms of pay," Despard says. "We tend not to think in terms of the number and quality of benefits, yet benefits are 31% of total compensation."

The researchers examined whether access to a variety of benefitsincluding health and dental insurance, paid time off, and retirementwere related to nine different measures of financial insecurity.

Their results indicate that frontline health care workers' access to benefits is strongly related to financial insecurity, with workers with less access to benefits having higher levels of financial insecurity, even when controlling for income.

The relationship between benefits and financial insecurity was strongest among health care workers without a college degree who work in private duty settings, such as home health aides.

Despard said these findings have key applications for both employers and employees. By providing ample benefits, employers can help mitigate health care workers' financial insecurity. Health care workers on the job market can also heed these findings by closely considering not only a job's salary but also the benefits available.

"The takeaway is workers need to pay attention to benefits, not just pay," Despard said. "But employers need to do a much, much better job of making all of that information more transparent and easier to understand."

More information: Access to Employer Benefits and Financial Insecurity Among Frontline Healthcare Workers, Compensation & Benefits Review (2023). DOI: 10.1177/08863687231189
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Acting commissioner of Customs and Border Protection Troy Miller, center, speaks during a news conference at the San Ysidro Port of Entry, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in San Diego. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has announced a new government-wide strategy that will target not only fentanyl but precursor materials used to make the synthetic opioid.Credit: AP Photo/Gregory Bull

As overdose deaths continue at a record pace, U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced a new government-wide strategy Thursday involving scores of agencies that will target the precursor materials used by traffickers to make fentanyl and other synthetic drugs.

Under the plan, CBP will work with the postal service and express consignment carriers, air carriers, and other logistic companies to share information about suspicious goods, potential transit routes, and other data that can help thwart the supply chain of fentanyl and other illicit synthetic drugs. Legal goods that could be targeted include molds and presses to make pills, as well as chemicals.

Legal goods used in the making of fentanyl have been arriving increasingly via air cargo from Asia to airports including in Los Angeles and then driven south into Mexico where cartels produce the drug and send it back to the U.S. to be sold illegally, officials said.

The aim is to hit "each node of the supply chain, based on data-driven intelligence," the agency said.

The strategy will start in the San Diego corridor and then expand to other cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Portland, Oregon, officials said. It will leverage partnerships at all levels: state, local, tribal, territorial, law enforcement, governments, commercial industries, nongovernmental partners, and the international community, to combat networks tied to the deadliest overdose crisis in U.S. history.

Troy Miller, acting commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, made the announcement on the U.S.-Mexico border, standing with U.S. Coast Guard officials, San Diego County sheriff's deputies and others at the nation's busiest pedestrian crossing. Nearly half of the agency's seizures of fentanyl happen in the San Diego sector, he said.

The trade has evolved from 2016 when fentanyl was entering primarily via mail, concealed in envelopes, to now when machinery, dyes, and other materials are arriving via ships and planes to the United States before heading to Mexico to be used in fentanyl production feeding the U.S. overdose crisis.

In June, CBP officers examining cargo at Los Angeles International Airport unpacked a box from Asia labeled keyboards and found inside 175 pounds of chemicals that were later tested and found to be those used to make fentanyl, Miller said. The box had been destined for a warehouse on the U.S.-Mexico border. In September, officers at New York's John F. Kennedy Airport seized 14 dye and pill sets from China in separate shipments.

"These criminals are sophisticated, innovative and relentless," Miller said. "But so are our efforts to stop them."

All pill presses for legal uses are licensed by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Miller said, so officers will be checking for that as they examine shipments. They also will target other precursors used for the manufacturing of methamphetamine.

It is the latest effort by the Biden administration in its fight against the drug crisis. Earlier this month, the government announced a series of indictments and sanctions against Chinese companies and executives blamed for importing the chemicals used to make the deadly drug. The actions included charges against eight Chinese companies and their executives, who were accused of advertising, manufacturing and distributing precursor chemicals for the illegal sale of synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

CBP said it plans to target more businesses that are involved, including shippers.

Mexico and China are the primary sources for fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances trafficked directly into the U.S., according to the DEA, which is tasked with combating illicit drug trafficking. Nearly all the precursor chemicals that are needed to make fentanyl come from China. And the companies that make the precursors routinely use fake return addresses and mislabel the products in order to avoid being caught by law enforcement.

Fentanyl, a powerful opioid, is the deadliest drug in the U.S. today. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that drug overdose deaths have increased more than sevenfold from 2015 to 2021.

More than 100,000 deaths a year have been linked to drug overdoses since 2020 and about two-thirds of those are related to fentanyl.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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Phenotypic characterization of neutrophils in 24-week-old Akita mice. (A) Representative extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) curves assessing glycolysis. (B) Glycolytic reserve is the difference between glycolytic capacity and baseline glycolysis; mean for n = 6, **P < 0.01 compared with WT mice by unpaired Students t test. (C) Representative oxygen consumption rate (OCR) curves assessing mitochondrial respiration. (D) The spare respiratory capacity (src) is the difference between maximal and basal respiration; mean for n = 6, **P < 0.01 compared with WT mice by unpaired Students t test. (E) Representative OCR curves indicative of the oxidative burst after PMA stimulation. (F) Maximal OCR relative to baseline OCR; mean for n = 6, **P < 0.01 by one-way ANOVA followed by the Holm-Sidak test. (G) NETosis after PMA stimulation measured by SYTOX staining; mean for n = 6 to 7, *P < 0.05 by one-way ANOVA followed by the Holm-Sidak test. (H) Representative microscopy indicating NETosis; blue, DNA; green, neutrophil elastase. Scale bars, 100 m. Credit: Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj1019

More than 10% of the population in the United States has been diagnosed with diabetes according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 7.5% of these diabetic patients will experience cardiovascular events like heart attack or stroke in their lives.

Research from rheumatologists, cardiovascular pharmacologists and nephrologists at the University of Michigan has found a potential target when it comes to preventing vascular dysfunction, the first step toward frank cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke, in patients with diabetes.

In a study published in Science Advances, University of Michigan researchers found that the overproduction of neutrophil extracellular traps is an important contributing factor to vascular dysfunction in diabetes.

Neutrophils are white blood cells that help the body fight against infections and are responsible for the production of NETs.

NETs are intended to act as first responders against various bacterial and viral infections, but they may also become overactive in chronic autoimmune or inflammatory diseases such as lupus or diabetes. When this happens, NETs can create problems for blood vessels.

"An excess of NETs is a common contributing factor to inflammation in patients with autoimmune rheumatologic diseases. This is a major area of research in our laboratory directed by Jason Knight, M.D., Ph.D,," said Chao Liu, Ph.D., the first author and a research fellow in the Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine.

The rheumatology team at the University of Michigan collaborated with Kevin Atkins, M.D., and Subramanium Pennathur, M.D., in the division of nephrology to extend the research of NETs to diabetes.

"We noticed that others were finding a role for NETs in certain diabetic complications like retinal damage and problems with wound healing," said Liu.

"We wondered if this connection might also extend to vascular dysfunction, which is a topic we were well-positioned to explore based on our prior work."

In laboratory research, the team found that diabetic mice had an excess of NETs as expected. The mice also had blood vessel walls that did not relax normally making them more susceptible to forming the lipid plaques that lead to heart attack or stroke.

When the excess NETs were eliminated, the diabetic mice had much healthier appearing vessels that were essentially indistinguishable from healthy non-diabetic mice.

In patients with diabetes, factors like high glucose and oxidative stress appear to activate neutrophils to form excessive NETs.

"By treating the excess of NETs in diabetic patients, we think it is possible that we would be able to reduce vascular dysfunction and the complications that follow it," said Liu. "Finding a solution for vascular dysfunction could greatly improve the lives of diabetic patients."

Going forward, the team is hoping to study the role of neutrophils and NETs in all phases of diabetic vascular diseases, from vascular dysfunction to frank atherosclerosis with a goal of finding personalized and proactive treatments for patients with diabetes and likely beyond.

More information: Chao Liu et al, Inhibition of neutrophil extracellular trap formation alleviates vascular dysfunction in type 1 diabetic mice, Science Advances (2023). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj1019 Journal information: Science Advances
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Liver cancer is the fourth deadliest cancer in Hawaii, particularly affecting Native Hawaiian, Filipino and Japanese men. Patients can develop liver failure when tumors metastasize or spread to the healthy portions of the liver which results in a rapid decline of health and even death.

Currently, immunotherapy is the standard of care for patients with liver cancer. However, while newer immunotherapy medications, which use a person's immune system to fight cancer, can slow the spread in many types of cancers, liver tumors often do not respond. University of Hawaii Cancer Center researcher Benjamin Green led a team to conduct public impact research and published a study aimed to better understand why this happens.

"Sometimes, immunotherapy can cause the generation of pro-cancer immune cells called regulatory T cells or "Tregs,'" Green explained.

Using cutting-edge sequencing technology, Green and his team performed the most comprehensive analysis of liver Tregs to date in mice that received immunotherapy. They discovered that the Tregs in the liver that expressed a CD29 protein were more immunosuppressive, and increased in abundance when mice were treated with immunotherapy.

Regardless of the type of cancer that was placed into a mouse's liver, immunotherapy nearly doubled the quantity of CD29+ Tregs. Although the CD29 protein is understudied in Tregs, it likely has an impact on controlling the Treg population in the liver.

"Our results may be applicable to a range of liver diseases. In liver cancer, we think that CD29 may represent a new potential drug target to help patients respond to immunotherapy," said Green. "We will determine whether these Tregs can be killed to improve immunotherapy of liver cancer."

Investigating liver cancer in local patients

Green is partnering with data scientists and molecular pathologists at the UH Manoa John A. Burns School of Medicine, as well as liver cancer doctors at The Queen's Medical Center, to examine a number of liver tumors removed from Hawaiian and non-Hawaiian patients to see if they contain different percentages of CD29+ Tregs.

"I am grateful to the UH Cancer Center and the patients in Hawaii that have enabled me to continue this important research," he said. "Working together, I believe that we will contribute to designing more effective medications for future patients suffering from liver cancers."

The research is published in the journal Gut.

More information: Benjamin L Green et al, Immunosuppressive CD29+Treg accumulation in the liver in mice on checkpoint inhibitor therapy, Gut (2023). DOI: 10.1136/gutjnl-2023-330024 Journal information: Gut
On Wednesday night, when temperatures sank and the Hellgate wind scoured ice across every sidewalk at the University of Montana, the atmosphere seemed perfect for one of the final rehearsals of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow  a classic Halloween story about passing through darkened corners.

In the opening scene of this production from the School of Theatre & Dance, an ensemble arranges itself on the exposed, black-floor staging area of the Masquer Theatre. The performers wave their arms like trees, scarecrows or threatening figures blowing in the wind, with projection screens of a black forest behind them. Disturbing piano notes plunk out while the cast makes sounds of the wind.

Suddenly, startlingly, one of them howls like a wolf. Then they all break into laughter.

What you might not expect from this show, which has started a two-weekend run, is that Washington Irvings story can be very funny in the right hands. They hold to the contours of the plot and retain its language while actively commenting on it and having fun in the process.

Irving published the classic story in 1820, the core elements of which are a spindly school teacher named Ichabod Crane who begins teaching in the rural community on the Hudson, which is of course menaced by an alleged Headless Horseman.

This version, playing in the Masquer Theatre, was adapted by JM Christiansen, whos earning his Master of Fine Arts in directing.

Crane, played here by Morgan Davis, arrives as the new schoolmaster in Sleepy Hollow. Davis doesnt naturally resemble a scarecrow, so his contemporary Ichabodness is telegraphed with a ponytail, blazer and Davis way of conveying, simultaneously, an owl-faced superiority and social cluelessness.

His eye is caught by Katrina Van Tassel, played by Kairi Lising, whose father happens to own land. In this version of the story, Lising breaks the fourth wall and critiques the dated elements of Irvings story, such as the idea that these men are pursuing an 18-year-old whos described in the text as plump as a partridge. In Lising's hands, she's a modern woman trapped in another time, unimpressed by her suitors (or seemingly the idea of having to tolerate these two) and pressuring an arrogant Ichabod, who is choir master, to bring in new forms of music. (This is a recurring theme that pays off in a way you might not expect.)

Shes also caught the eye of Brom Bones (Kynan Moon), a ponytailed athlete who visibly towers over Ichabod and impresses the rest of the townsfolk, who are dressed in contemporary jeans and plaid, rather than historical costumes.

Anyone whos loved a book and hated the movie, or vice versa, knows that adaptation is a spectrum. In the event that youre behind on your New England literature, its worth remembering that Irvings story has a strong voice but no actual voices, i.e., dialogue.

Irving presented it as a written tale found among the papers of the late Diedrich Knickerbocker, who wrote it down after hearing it told at a gathering.

Christiansen and company tell the tale through two means. First, hes divided Irvings wordage up among the ensemble. Sometimes, they volley words between members of the group, which gives it a dramatic sense of momentum. Much of his phrasing has an old-world power that helps them transition from humor to seriousness.

The projections on screen are sometimes used for scene title cards. The introduction of Brom Bones signals, in old-fashioned type, that he is a Most Formidable Rival, or that weve transitioned to the Witching Time of Night.

Second, hes added scenes of dialogue. Even when they're sticking with Irving's script, they have fun with it through the actors delivery. (They make much of the authors boastful description that Ichabod has read two books  all the way through.)

Its a minimalist show, too. The set is little more than a piano and a series of crates that can be used as needed. The projections let us know if a scene changes, and the cast is a whirl of motion, constantly rearranging the crates as required. When the scene calls for it, the actors are the trees in the woods. When horses are required, an actor plays a horse  and it works. It's possibly one of the most hilarious bits in the whole show.

In the past calendar year, Christiansen has directed two other unconventional shows. One was the school's Men on Boats, which recreates an early expedition down the Grand Canyon. He and his team transformed the theater via bookended red rock walls. (The title is a fake-out, too: The script calls for a casting of exactly zero men.)

Earlier this year, he directed the Montana Repertory Theatres touring educational play, The Odyssey, which in playwright Briandaniel Oglesbys version compresses the story down to an hour of stage time and a cast of only three. (Like a band, its easier to tour with a trio than a 10-piece.)

Sleepy Hollow is unconventional but far more enjoyable for it. In the finale of its roughly 75-minute run time, things get genuinely unsettling and eerie through active choreography and suggestion rather than flashy costumes or lighting that youd see in a Tim Burton film.

Its funnier, too.
Missoula could see a new charter art school and a fully online school next year after the Missoula County Public Schools Board of Trustees unanimously approved the district's first charter school proposals this week.

The proposed charter schools will cover early kindergarten to 12th grade, meeting varying purposes. One proposed charter school sets out to establish an arts education for grades K-5, while also providing an opportunity for certifying new teachers in the community. The other proposed charter school builds on existing online education programs created initially during the COVID-19 pandemic for grades 6-12.

The charter school applications come ahead of a Nov. 1 deadline for the first round of public school charter applications to the Montana Board of Public Education. If approved, the charter schools would be some of the first in the state after House Bill 549 passed in the 2023 legislative session. HB 549, which placed charter schools under control of public school boards, was one of two successful bills about charter schools in the last session. The other bill allowing for charter schools by private entities has since been partially blocked by a state court after a challenge by educators.

The arts education school, titled TEACH (Teaching Excellence in the Arts and Creative Harmony) Academy, would employ an art-integrated approach instead of a subject-specific approach employed traditionally by Missoula public schools.

It's getting away from thinking about the current model of K-5 where we teach one section and then another section and then we teach content to more content, MCPS Assistant Superintendent Vinny Gianmonna told trustees Tuesday night. It's really how do we braid all of our content together through a focus around the arts and allow kids to express themselves in different ways what they're learning, and really to be able to show and tell what they're learning?

Some of the intended short-term outcomes of the TEACH Academy include a better rate of attendance than non-charter schools and greater engagement in classes. According to MCPS attendance data, roughly 35% of elementary students miss 10% or more of their school days and MCPS assessment data shows that nearly 40% of students are not meeting grade level standards.

An arts-integrated education is meant to provide more opportunities for active and movement-based lessons to encourage greater motivation and education, according to the charter schools draft proposal. Students would still be taught the skills expected in their grades, but lessons will also integrate art.

The proposal references Missoulas reputation for supporting the arts as a reason why the school serves the community needs. Missoula was ranked nationally in the top 10 for a medium-sized town for art providers and community and government support of the arts, according to a report by college organization SMU DataArts last year. The school would further develop a partnership with the nonprofit SPARK Ignites Learning Initiative to help develop a fully integrated arts curriculum.

In year one, the school would be open to all Montana residents in pre-kindergarten to second grade. The TEACH Academy aims to enroll 75 students that first year before eventually expanding to older grades. There would be no additional enrollment costs for the school. A lottery system would be in place for applications beyond the maximum enrollment number.

Gianmonna said MCPS hopes the TEACH Academy can help address widespread staffing shortages through opportunities for high schoolers and college students. This would include paid internship opportunities, including paraprofessional and support staff roles, for high school students as part of a work-based learning program.

By its third year, the charter school would begin a partnership with the University of Montanas School of Education to better provide those opportunities and recruit potential teacher education candidates.

We know that we're in a staffing shortage in our state, across the country, Gianmonna said. This is another way to leverage a lot of the resources that we have in our district in order to try to promote and retain aspiring teachers, which is a struggle for all of us.

Online school

The goal of the charter online school, named Connect Academy, is for MCPS to better meet student needs with individualized courses and options for accelerated learning, according to the proposal.

From Advanced Placement courses to remedial courses, wherever we can meet students where theyre at, thats what we want, Superintendent Micah Hill said.

The proposal states that students will be able to access a wider range of courses and instructors than might be available at a traditional middle school or high school. That includes asynchronous learning that allows students to take classes at their own pace, participate in work-based learning, and make up credits.

Connect Academy builds on the Missoula Online Academys approach initially started in 2020 during the pandemic, Hill said.

Like the TEACH Academy, it would be open to all Montanans.

The first-year plans to enroll 72 students, with a goal of 175 students by its fifth year. Students enrolled in the school would be provided laptops and other equipment if needed. It will also employ a lottery system if the program receives more applications than it can enroll.

At the meeting Tuesday, board members expressed reservations about the equity of some of the proposed schools and whether they could be targeted for certain populations.

My concern for both charter schools is that they will naturally invite families who have more resources to apply  maybe they will have a parent at home who can be with them during an online academy, Trustee Meg Whicher said. I work in a world where getting parents to register for after-school programs is difficult if it involves anything. So, I'm going to be really looking to the cabinet and the board to figure out how we can make this a truly equitable process for our families because this is still pretty cool.

Hill agreed with some of Whichers concerns and said the school district is planning to aggressively promote the academies after approval.

Arts integration is a bit of an equity leveler, because it connects to all kids and all kids can find something out of that, Hill said. And so that's why I'm hoping a lot of our families will see the excitement in that and are encouraged to apply. To add to that, public charter schools do not charge our students for access.

So, when we think about the socio-economic barriers that sometimes exist, if someone needs a laptop, we're going to provide a laptop. If someone needs access, transportation, we're going to work to try and make all of those things happen for all of our students.

The charter school proposals will first be heard mid-November at the Board of Public Education. Decisions on the proposals will be made mid-January. If approved, students could begin applying for the schools in April and May.
On Sept. 18, Justine Vallieres was setting traps to capture a pair of food-conditioned grizzly bears breaking into cabins up the North Fork when she got word that a third bear, also a grizzly, had been killed on the train tracks near Stryker, clear across the Whitefish Range. As the wildlife conflict management specialist for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) in northwest Montana, Vallieres remembers it as one of countless instances she wishes she could have been in two places at once.

Lacking that superpower, the bear biologist hopped into her government pickup truck and drove two hours over the mountain pass to the site of the train strike, where she found a dead 25-year-old male grizzly and set to work documenting the federally protected bears death.

We get stretched thin, Vallieres said. Up here in northwest Montana, we have the highest density of bear-human conflicts in the state, and were putting in 60- to 80-hour work weeks responding to them. So yeah, having to go investigate a grizzly bear killed on the train tracks adds to the burden and distracts us from our efforts to keep bears and humans safe.

Ten days earlier, on Sept. 8, Vallieres was wrapping up her workday around dark when she received a mortality signal from a 10-year-old radio-collared sow grizzly whose coordinates help wildlife officials monitor population trends. Its location? A BNSF Railway Company trestle spanning the Flathead River near Coram.

When I saw that the mortality sensor was near the train tracks, I knew I had to get there as soon as possible, Vallieres said. Weve had a few on that train trestle in Coram. Its so high up that they either try to jump off or outrun the train. And they cant outrun the train. It would be nice if BNSF would install some motion-sensor alarms across the trestles to scare the bears so they wont keep trying to cross them.

For decades, the freight trains trundling over Marias Pass toward Glacier National Park and the Great Bear Wilderness along a 160-mile stretch of tracks between Cutbank and Stryker have posed a threat to the grizzlies living there, particularly when a derailment causes a grain spill, or a train-killed deer or livestock carcass draws the bears onto the busy tracks. And for decades, a host of state, federal and tribal wildlife management agencies, as well as non-governmental organizations and conservation groups, have worked with the railroad to mitigate the hazards to threatened and endangered species like grizzlies, with varying degrees of effectiveness.

Three years ago, BNSF Railway Company proposed the most comprehensive solution yet when it applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) and formally submitted a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) outlining measures it would take to reduce train-caused grizzly mortalities in the region. The HCP committed more than $2 million to fund the salaries and operational costs of two new FWP grizzly bear technicians and a third grizzly bear technician for the Blackfeet Nation, as well as related grizzly bear conservation projects and programs, including waste management, electric fencing, remote cameras, radio collars, hunter education, and a new grizzly bear database over the seven-year life of the plan.

Under the plan, BNSF would also establish a reserve account of $1 million to fund programs and projects designed by the HCP technical committee to respond to new data discoveries, the identification of new factors contributing to train strikes, or the arrival of new challenges and solutions as grizzly bear populations expand. Developed over the course of nearly 20 years and based on extensive consultation with bear experts from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), FWP, the Blackfeet Nation, and Glacier National Park, the plan and the pot of BNSF money would be administered by the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works closely with FWP on conservation efforts throughout the state.

In exchange, FWS would issue BNSF an ITP under Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), an exception that allows the federal wildlife management agency to issue permits for the incidental take of grizzly bears if such taking is incidental to, and not the purpose of, the carrying out of an otherwise lawful activity.

However, with the recent spate of train-killed grizzlies in September, including a third grizzly mortality on BNSF tracks east of the Continental Divide on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation near Meriwether, many of the same bear specialists who helped develop the HCP  and who are poised to benefit from its finalization  are confounded by the postponement of both the plan and the incidental take permit, which is a legal requirement under the ESA.

I dont understand what the holdup is, Gerald Buzz Cobell, director of the Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife Department, said. I think BNSF is dragging its feet and the Fish and Wildlife Service is letting them do it. The tribe is anxiously awaiting this funding to make up for some of the grizzly bear losses that are occurring on the railroad tracks running through the reservation. As a tribe, were doing our best to minimize grizzly bear mortality and our feet are held to the fire whenever theres a death. But I guess if youre BNSF you get a free pass.

Trains hitting bears has long been a problem in northwest Montana, particularly in the 1980s and early 1990s, when a series of derailments left spilled grain along the right-of-way that attracted bears. In the 1990s, BNSF Railway predecessor Burlington Northern teamed up with FWP, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service and other stakeholders to create the Great Northern Environmental Stewardship Area in an effort to reduce the number of train-related fatalities. The railroad increased its efforts to pick up spilled grain and to reduce vegetation along the tracks that might attract the animals.

According to data tracking bear deaths from 1980-2018, trains along BNSF Railway corridors killed or contributed to the deaths of approximately 52 grizzly bears from the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE). In 2019, eight grizzly bears were killed as the result of railway activities, the most in a single year on record, while dozens more were removed from the recovering population through management actions, the result of bears killing livestock or getting into human food.

Following the train-related deaths in 2019, wildlife advocacy groups threatened to sue BNSF Railway for its role in train collisions killing grizzly bears. The following year, BNSF submitted its draft plan to FWS, which in February 2021 posted the 60-page HCP for public comment.

Since then, both BNSF and FWS have offered scant details about the plans progress.

BNSF is working with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to finalize its Habitat Conservation Plan, according to a Sept. 22 email from Lena Kent, general director of public affairs for BNSF. In the interim, BNSF continues to work with the federal, state and Tribal agencies in reporting and facilitating the investigation of potential bear strikes on the railroad right of way. BNSF also continues to work to identify and remove potential bear attractants from its track structure. This includes vegetation management, carrion removal, and identification and removal of spilled agricultural products.

The Beacon asked BNSF to clarify the reason for the delays that have stalled the HCP and the companys application for an Incidental Take Permit, but the company did not respond.

Thomas Stoever, an attorney who represented BNSF and helped author the HCP, said he couldnt comment on the procedural delays and directed the Beacon toward BNSF or FWS.

On Sept. 21, the Beacon sent FWS a formal request for comment on the progress of the HCP. As of Oct. 4, Joe Szuszwalak, acting deputy assistant regional director for the agencys office of communications, said he still had not received clearance for a response.

By most accounts, BNSFs efforts to clean up bear attractants from its railway have been exemplary, as has the response by BNSF employees when a train strike does occur.

I will give BNSF some recognition there, said Tim Manley, a retired grizzly bear biologist who spent 37 years as FWPs grizzly bear management specialist in northwest Montana. They did make some changes over the years and the local railroad folks were excellent to deal with. When bears did get hit, we would go investigate and try to make sure we could identify the attractant, get it cleaned up, and get electric fencing around the grain spills.

When Manley was hired in 1993, his position was funded by BNSF, which back then faced the same legal mandate to mitigate grizzly bear mortality that it does now. In 2004, he served on the technical committee assembled to inform the development of the railroad companys HCP.

Today, Manley is at a loss to explain why the conservation plan hasnt been finalized, although he speculates it has something to do with the likelihood that grizzly bears in the NCDE will soon be proposed for delisting.

I have essentially been involved in this thing for 20 years and my opinion is that BNSF is stalling until bears get delisted, in which case they wouldnt need an incidental take permit, Manley said. In 2021, the final draft was put together and sent out for public comment. It still has not been signed off on by BNSF and here were going on three years.

Under the draft plan and application for a seven-year take permit, BNSF acknowledged that grizzlies in the NCDE would soon be delisted and considered that probability as part of its application.

BNSF expects that within seven years, the NCDE population of grizzly bears will be delisted and the post-delisting monitoring period of the population will be complete, the draft plan and permit application states. At that time, it is anticipated that the NCDE grizzly bears population will continue to be managed through a conservation strategy implemented through Federal, Tribal, State, and local stakeholders in the region (NCDE Subcommittee 2019). At the end of the Permit duration, BNSF may voluntarily continue its HCP conservation strategy. If the NCDE population is not successfully delisted within the seven-year Permit duration, BNSF may apply for a Permit renewal.

Mitch King, a 31-year FWS employee who now works as executive director of the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation, the nonprofit organization that would administer the HCPs funding under the plan, said that, to the best of his knowledge, BNSF and FWS were still ironing out the details.

This thing has sort of been hanging around for decades now, King said. It just seems to drag on and on. Meanwhile, the trains have taken a toll because theyre operating in prime griz habitat. You cant stop those trains on a dime, so theres no way theyre ever going to make them completely bear proof.

Hence, the need for a take permit.

Chris Servheen, who for 35 years worked as the FWS grizzly bear recovery coordinator before retiring in 2016, said he cant understand why the draft HCP hasnt been formalized, particularly since BNSF stands to benefit from a relatively small investment in grizzly bear conservation.

Its pretty embarrassing for a multibillion-dollar company to try and save a few nickels on the backs of grizzly bears, Servheen said. This plan has been ready to go for years and its all been examined in great detail and it lays out what they can do to help offset some of the effects of the railroad by helping fund some of these positions. Its not a huge financial imposition on them so I cant understand why theyre trying to avoid responsibility.

For Vallieres, the HCPs inclusion of funding for another FWP bear technician holds special meaning  when Manley hired her as a seasonal technician, it was understood that in order for her to join FWP as a full-time employee, the HCP would need to be finalized. Instead, she assumed Manleys role when he retired.

When I started working for Tim, he always had to raise money for his tech positions, Vallieres said. I just remember him telling me that my job would be funded once they pass the HCP, which had been in the works for a long time. It just never happened. It still hasnt happened.

Even in retirement, Manley keeps tabs on bear management and conservation in the region and beyond. But as more biologists retire, he says the endangered grizzly bear is losing some of its most dedicated champions.

Pretty much all of us who served on the original HCP technical committee are retired now, Manley said. I have asked repeatedly through the years what the status is of the HCP and I was told it was being passed back and forth between BNSF and [FWS]. At this point, I dont know where things stand. Its basically in BNSFs hands.

This story was originally published in the Flathead Beacon.
A coalition of tribal nations is calling for a meeting with the U.S. and Canadian governments after the two countries failed to meet their own deadline of addressing toxic water contamination that flows into Montana from Canadian mines.

Last week, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in Montana, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and Ktunaxa Nation in British Columbia released a joint statement that the tribes would be convening a "government-to-government-to-government meeting to be set in November." The Ktunaxa Nation stated it "invites Canada and the United States to immediately make good on their promise and meet with the governments."

"There has not been a single multi-government meeting to discuss solutions," Ktunaxa Nation Chair Kathryn Teneese said in the Oct. 18 statement. "While the United States has met regularly with the staff of the full transboundary Ktunaxa Nation, Canada has not done the same. And, there havent been any meetings between the U.S., Canada, and the Ktunaxa Nation all together, despite our repeated requests and numerous opportunities and ample time for that to occur."

The Ktunaxa Tribal First Nation in British Columbia has for years been at the fore of pushing the Canadian government to address selenium contamination from runoff water at massive open-pit coal mines around Sparwood and Elkford, northeast of Fernie. The Ktunaxa Tribal First Nation, Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in Montana are part of the broader Ktunaxa Nation that was split by white settlers' boundaries.

In the most trace amounts, selenium is essential to animal health. But beyond that, it's toxic in even small amounts. It accumulates in fish and bird ovaries, which leads to fewer eggs hatching, animals hatching with birth defects, and young that die before they can reproduce.

The toxic runoff comes primarily from waste rock at mines operated by mining giant Teck Resources, which flows into the Elk River. The Elk River flows into the Kootenai River at Lake Koocanusa, a reservoir spanning the U.S.-Canada border and held back by Libby Dam. From the Libby Dam in Montana, the Kootenai River flows through Libby and Troy, and then into Idaho. Selenium levels above what tribal, state and federal regulations allow  and high enough to harm wildlife  have been documented throughout so-called "Lake K" and the Kootenai River (Kootenay in Canada) downstream of where the Elk River flows in.

Selenium has led to dramatic population crashes of fish in the Elk and Fording rivers around Teck's mines.

In March, U.S. President Joe Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a joint statement that mentioned selenium contamination in Lake Koocanusa: "The United States and Canada also intend to reach an agreement in principle by this summer to reduce and mitigate the impacts of water pollution in the Elk-Kootenai watershed, in partnership with Tribal Nations and Indigenous Peoples, and in order to protect the people and species that depend on this vital river system."

That has yet to happen, according to the tribes.

"(T)he end of summer has come and gone without any agreement," the tribes stated, "or any real progress in working together."

The tribes said they were "initially encouraged" by Biden and Trudeau's March commitment to reach an agreement this past summer. But "this initial encouragement faltered as engagement with the federal governments  particularly Canada  following the statements release was nearly nonexistent, and a far cry from a 'partnership.'"

In July, the tribes proposed their own solution: referring the issue to the International Joint Commission and establishing a governance plan comprised of the United States, Canada and the six Ktunaxa tribal governments.

For years, the tribes of the Ktunaxa Nation in both countries have pushed the U.S. State Department and its Canadian counterpart, Global Affairs Canada, to refer the issue to the International Joint Commission. The commission is a bi-national entity created by the 1909 Boundary Waters Treaty, primarily to address disputes over contamination flowing between two countries that share a continental border riddled with lakes, rivers and reservoirs.

A reference would spur the IJC to convene a bi-national "watershed board" of experts and stakeholders who would analyze selenium contamination in Lake Koocanusa and advise on solutions. Such a board would likely include scientists, tribes and governments of all levels from both nations. The State Department has indicated willingness to refer the matter to the IJC. In May 2022, the IJC urged Biden and Trudeau to issue a joint reference.

And in July this year, according to the tribes, the British Columbia provincial government  a longstanding opponent of an IJC reference  sent the Canadian government its own proposal for a reference.

But at an April 28 press conference in New York City, Trudeau stated, "We believe that there are processes that are being followed right now that have a better chance of getting to a resolution" than an IJC reference. The remark came one year after Global Affairs Canada turned away from a joint reference on Lake K selenium. In May 2022, the Ktunaxa Tribal First Nation announced that Global Affairs Canada notified the tribe via email the month before that it would not support an IJC reference. Technically, either nation can send a reference to the IJC by itself. But out of dozens of references, that's only happened one time, according to Robert Sisson, a U.S. IJC commissioner.

In lieu of a joint reference to the IJC, it's unclear how the Canadian government will engage tribes and the United States to address the high levels of selenium.

"We must come to a solution before the end of the year  we were strung along in 2022, and then again in 2023 with a target of end of summer," said Gary Aitken, Jr., vice-chairman of the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho. "The governments need to show that their deadlines, and their intent to meet them, are meaningful. We cannot accept any more broken promises. We have been asking for action on this issue for more than a decade, and we cant wait any longer."

Teck maintains it is addressing selenium contamination coming from the mines, and noted it's spent more than $1 billion on water treatment in recent years. More treatment facilities are slated to come online. But documents obtained by The Narwhal show that selenium levels of more than 250 times Canada's standard for aquatic life safety persist in waters around the mines.

Teck touts the capacity and efficacy of its water-treatment facilities, but the company has repeatedly refused to declare what percentage of overall runoff it actually treats. The British Columbia provincial government's website for Elk Valley water quality shows only a tiny fraction of overall contaminants  about 5% to 10%  are removed before the toxic water flows into waterways and then downstream.

In the United States, water quality is more strictly regulated under the federal Clean Water Act than water is in Canada. Montana developed a site-specific standard of 0.8 parts-per-billion (ppb) for Lake Koocanusa, citing state, tribal and university studies that found current levels of selenium are harming fish there.

When it encouraged a joint reference, the IJC highlighted selenium levels of 9.46 ppb in the Elk River, 4.99 ppb in Lake Koocanusa and 1.4 ppb in the Kootenai River. Levels as high as 150 ppb have been detected around Teck's mines.

Montana lawsuit

Meanwhile, Montana's new selenium standard for Lake K is subject to a lawsuit in which one state agency is suing the state board that helps oversee it.

It was in December 2020 that the Montana Department of Environmental Quality developed a site-specific selenium standard of 0.8 ppb for Lake Koocanusa, following a yearslong research and rule-making process. That standard was lower than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's general 1.5 ppb standard for selenium in bodies of water. State standards normally mirror the EPA's, but a state can create a more stringent standard if science shows a need for a stricter limit. The EPA must verify and approve the supporting science before it signs off on a state's more stringent site-specific standard, at which point the lower standard becomes the EPA's limit for the site as well. That happened with the site-specific selenium standard of 0.8 ppb that DEQ developed for Lake Koocanusa. The DEQ's more stringent standard was also approved by the state's Board of Environmental Review, or BER. But that was when the quasi-judicial oversight board contained appointees from then-Gov. Steve Bullock, a Democrat. Now, with a board comprised mostly of appointees from Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte, the BER has embraced Teck's calls to repeal the 0.8 ppb standard, arguing that its own actions in approving the standard were illegal. In July 2022, DEQ Director Chris Dorrington told a special legislative committee created to study the new standard that state law allowed his agency to either redo rule-making or make written findings to support the disputed standard. The agency performed the latter.

According to the Montana Free Press, the BER voted 5-2 late last year to send a letter to the EPA telling the agency that the 0.8 ppb standard should be voided. The letter was drafted by Teck but bore BER letterhead. The effort to void the 0.8 ppb standard is also supported by the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners. Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenai River are in Lincoln County.

In January, the DEQ sued the BER, Teck and the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners over the BER's 2022 order that DEQ redo the rule-making process that led to the 0.8 ppb standard. The state of Montana intervened on behalf of the BER. That means that Montana's DEQ is suing Montana's BER and the state itself.

And in May, a slate of conservation groups sued the BER, Teck and the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners. With attorneys from Earthjustice, the Montana Environmental Information Center, Clark Fork Coalition, Idaho Conservation League and Idaho Rivers United seek not only to overturn BER's 2022 order to redo rule-making, but they also want a judge to declare that DEQ's process in promulgating the 0.8 ppb standard was valid.

Earlier this month, on Oct. 6, a judge allowed the conservation groups to join DEQ as plaintiffs in DEQ's lawsuit, which is pending in Montana First District Court in Lewis & Clark County.

"Teck filed 11 counterclaims in DEQs lawsuit, and these counterclaims are direct attacks on the 2020 selenium rule," Earthjustice spokesperson Perry Wheeler wrote in announcing the groups' lawsuit. "If Teck is successful, they would undermine the protective 0.8 standard, which is based on over a decade of science and cooperation from multiple entities. Our intervention is necessary to protect our clients interests and their legally protected right to clean water in Lake Koocanusa and downstream waters in Montana and Idaho and to confront the devastating wildlife, health, and environmental impacts of selenium pollution."
A man accused of bringing 2,000 fentanyl pills and nearly 2 pounds of meth into Butte for distribution faces drug charges with possible combined penalties of 71 years in prison.

Owen David James, 50, pleaded not guilty to the charges Thursday, and District Judge Kurt Krueger set the next hearing for Nov. 30.

James was remanded to jail but Krueger did reduce bail from $1 million to $300,000 after prosecutor Ann Shea and defense attorney Jeff Dahood agreed to it.

James had a Texas drivers license and was in a truck with Texas plates when he was arrested in Butte-Silver Bow County on Sept. 13. During his initial appearance the next day, Justice Court Judge Ben Pezdark set bail at $1 million.

In subsequent court filings, Dahood said his client was not a flight risk. Among other things, he said James was born and raised in Dillon, has family who live there now and his alleged crimes were not violent.

Dahood wanted bail reduced to $250,000 but when Shea said Thursday that $300,000 was consistent with such charges, he did not object and Krueger set that amount.

State drug investigators say they began receiving information from confidential informants in late 2021 that James was involved in drug distribution in southwest Montana. Agents received more information intermittently through this past summer.

According to prosecutors, agents got a warrant in August to monitor James cell phone locations. Then a man arrested in Beaverhead County with about 4,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills and three-quarters of a pound of meth told police he got the drugs from James.

Montana agents tracked James phone to a suspected drug source in Washington state and then he appeared to be traveling back to Montana on Sept. 13. He was stopped when he got into Silver Bow County.

The truck was seized and a search turned up about 2,000 counterfeit Oxycodone pills that were fentanyl, 1.75 pounds of meth and a handgun. Prosecutors say James admitted he obtained the drugs in Washington and intended to distribute them in Montana.

He was charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute, carrying combined maximum penalties of 60 years in prison. He also faces up to 10 years if convicted of possessing property subject to criminal forfeiture and up to one year for theft.
During a single shift, a police officer can work a terrible car crash, break up a bar fight, arrest a drug dealer, help someone whos ODd, get cussed at, and hit the same house he was at three days ago to defuse domestic violence.

There are DUIs, suicide scenes, angry neighbors, people sleeping in the parking garage, people sky high and rotting away from meth, people talking and yelling to nobody but themselves.

Police encounter far more danger at times but its the daily dose of what some in the field call human indecency and pain that can wear on an officer.

I dont think theres any amount of training that can prepare you for what youre going to see on this job, said Butte-Silver Bow Sheriff Ed Lester, whose seen a lot in his 34 years as a cop.

Its often an officer who knocks on a door having to tell someone that their son or daughter or husband or wife has been killed.

Ive done that in the past, Lester said. So have a lot of our guys. Theres training at the Academy on how you want to try to do that, but is there a right way to tell somebody that? No.

Lester talked with The Montana Standard about these things as part of the newspapers annual special section on first responders. Many cops are heroes in many respects but its not all heroics all the time.

Human indecency and pain are part of the police package, and even with it, a lot of cops love being cops. But Lester says those in the profession must be upfront with those who want to join it.

We have to be realistic with our recruits, he said. These jobs are very rewarding, exciting and challenging. But we also have to tell them that this is a tough job with long hours and a schedule thats not easy on families.

In addition, its dangerous, both physically and emotionally, and you arent going to get rich doing it.

Lester said an officer can be talking to someone who just had their lawnmower stolen and minutes later encounter a guy whos out of his mind trying to attack you. Whatever it is, its usually not pleasant.

We dont get called by people who want us to come down and have a cup of coffee and say everythings going OK, he said. We dont get a lot of those calls.

There are some fairly newer trends on the streets that police see these days, one fueled by politics and political philosophies.

Our country is really more divided now than Ive ever experienced in my career, the sheriff said. People who are generally easy-going and pretty tolerant seem to have an edge about them.

There are still a lot of car crashes in the mornings and afternoons, and the graveyard shift still has more bar fights and domestic disturbances and violent incidents.

A lot of those are alcohol-fueled and drug-fueled kinds of things  but people are on fentanyl and meth (these days) and theyre on them 24 hours a day, so its just as dangerous at 6 oclock in the morning as it is 2 or 3 oclock in the morning, Lester said.

In the sea of negativity, sometimes a single incident can wreak turmoil in an officers mind.

You dont anticipate some of the things that will affect you, Lester said. I had a suicide that affected me relatively early in my career. A guy hanged himself. I had some nightmares over that.

You go to a call and once the adrenaline is over, you start driving around and thinking about it and then you realize  not necessarily right away but like a week later or two weeks later  that youre still seeing things, and you realize, I probably need to talk to somebody, Lester said.

Like all Butte-Silver Bow employees, officers can seek counseling or other help through an employee assistance program. There are also critical incident stress debriefings that officers can take part in.

Most officers look after each other, too, and will tell a supervisor or shift commander when they think a colleague is struggling with something, Lester said.

On a positive note, most folks in Butte still like and respect the police, Lester said. The defund the police movement following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis in 2020 never took root here or other places in Montana, he said.

Lester said police brought some of the backlash on themselves, and even though most in Butte still back law enforcement, national narratives in the media have taken a toll on the front end.

The nationwide trend of disrespect toward law enforcement is certainly having an impact on our ability to recruit qualified personnel, the sheriff said. They think, People dont like cops anymore. I dont want to be caught up in that.

One of the best ways of surviving all the human indecency and pain is for officers to keep numbers and percentages in perspective.

You see the good citizens, the 90% of people we dont ever really deal with unless theyre the victims of an accident or theft, Lester said. Its the 5% or 10% that are hell-bent on doing things their own way and creating havoc that we deal with.

The 90% of people who are good people and obey the law  they respect us and they realize, We do need the police, he said. That helps you stay a cop.
As a child, all Kelly J. Lee wanted to do was follow in his father, Joe Lees footsteps and become a police officer.

His dad spent his career in law enforcement and retired as an undersheriff for Butte-Silver Bow.

Reaching adulthood, Lee veered away from that childhood dream and instead, graduated from Montana Tech with a degree in business with an emphasis in accounting.

The Tech grad spent five years as an accountant, but his chosen career turned out not to be quite as fulfilling as he had hoped. Feeling the need to seek a public service position, Lee decided it was time to make a change.

First, though, the Butte man turned to his older brother, Marc Lee, for some much-needed guidance. Marc, a captain with the Butte-Silver Bow Fire Dept., did not disappoint and urged his younger brother to become a firefighter.

Lee heeded that sound advice and on Feb. 20, 2008, he was one of the fire departments newest recruits.

It seems like yesterday that I started here, said Lee. I have no regrets  I love it!

Lee also loves his hometown and its people. Its one of the reasons he became a firefighter.

We try to keep the community safe, comfort them and help them out the best we can, he said.

According to Lee Sullivan, a firefighter who has been with the department since May 2017, the assistant fire chief always has a positive attitude that he brings to work each and every day.

That positive attitude, according to Sullivan, has rubbed off on the rest.

He makes it so welcoming to come to work every day, said Sullivan.

Lee takes his civic duties seriously as well. For the past 16 years, he has sat on the Butte Civic Center Board. Being part of this particular board is important to him because the facility is important to Butte.

People from all over come to the Butte Civic Center for sporting events and concerts, explained Lee. Sometimes its the first impression people get of Butte.

According to Lee, that first impression is almost always favorable.

The hospitality we offer is top notch, he said. We treat them well.

Married to Krystin Mengon-Lee and the proud father of two teen-age boys, Tocher and Miner, the firefighter would again feel the need to do more and decided to run for the Butte School District No. 1 school board. To his surprise, on May 7, 2019, he was elected.

As the father of two sons, I felt qualified, said Lee, who wanted to give his input on just how important an education is.

A better education can lead to better opportunities, he added.

Two years ago, Lees position changed within the fire department. He is now the assistant chief and fire marshal. While excited for not only the opportunity, but for the challenge as well, Lee admitted his new position made him nervous.

I wanted to do right by the public, said Lee.

Making his family proud, including his parents, Joe and Patricia, was also important to Lee.

Well, the assistant fire chief achieved that goal.

Pat and I are very proud of Kelly for all of his accomplishments, said his father Joe.

Public service was always encouraged in the Lee household.

Its a good life helping people, said Joe.

Lee may not be on the frontlines anymore, but he has plenty on his plate as the position holds a myriad of duties and responsibilities. He continues to embrace the jobs challenges.

The assistant fire chief handles a great deal of reports, reviewing from start to finish all commercial projects in B-SB, taking charge of all fire inspections and investigations, and staying apprised of buildings deemed dangerous and subsequently, making the necessary recommendations.

Lee never seems to be without some architectural drawings of yet-to-be-built buildings, all of which he studies for several reasons, including making sure there are access areas for his department in case of a fire. The flow is also checked to be certain there is enough water, if needed.

He works with not just architects, developers and contractors, but other B-SB departments, including public works, community enrichment, planning and building.

As for that business degree  well, that hasnt entirely gone to waste.

Lee continues to be the secretary-treasurer for the Montana State Firefighters Association.

I still love accounting, said Lee with a smile, but this job is better!
One Superfund watchdog in Butte compared the content of the EPA administrators recent op-ed to gaslighting  a term for a type of psychological manipulation designed to sow self-doubt about ones own perceptions of reality.

Others wish the EPA would just cut bait.

A key focus of Regional EPA Administrator KC Beckers opinion piece, published Oct. 21 in The Montana Standard, was the ongoing and sometimes heated debate about the potential incorporation within cleanup sites in Butte of onsite material, also known as grey material or dirty dirt.

Its a critical time in the Butte cleanup, and through this process I am confident we can address community concerns while designing remedies that maintain the integrity of past agreements, Becker wrote.

As described by EPA and Atlantic Richfield, onsite material refers to soils that are not contaminated enough to require excavation and transfer to a repository but do have some level of metals contamination. EPA says sampling and related analysis of suitability would precede the use of onsite material as general fill.

This week, a few people familiar with Superfund-related conundrums in Butte suggested EPA is beating around the bush about the use of onsite material plans and should just declare what the agency intends to do.

Joe Griffin, an active member of the Citizens Technical Environmental Committee, said the Consent Decree signed in 2020 allows for the use of onsite material under certain circumstances.

KC needs to step up and say, These are EPAs decisions, Griffin said.

Evan Barrett, a staunch opponent of the use of dirty dirt, said Tuesday that EPAs agenda is to take Butte in the wrong direction while trying to persuade us that less than clean is good enough for Butte.

Dirty dirt train

He referenced the metaphorical train hes cited before.

The dirty dirt train has been loaded up for some time and on the way to Butte and to pretend that the decision has not already been made by BP/Atlantic Richfield and EPA is disingenuous, Barrett said.

In her column, KC tells us that much work needs to be done to determine how to proceed, not to determine whether to proceed, he said.

In short, the decision has been made, Barrett said.

Beckers op-ed described three non-residential project areas in the Silver Bow Creek Conservation area slated for remediation where onsite material might be used: Buffalo Gulch, Northside Tailings and Diggings East.

Butte native and business owner Ron Davis said there are clear examples in the region that leaving wastes in place can be unwise.

My biggest thing is, Have we not learned from Arrowstone Park or Stodden Park about leaving wastes in place? he said, adding that the use of dirty dirt is simply not acceptable.

Officials in Powell County and Deer Lodge, along with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, posted signs last month in Arrowstone Park warning of the potential for arsenic exposure. The park was built by Atlantic Richfield in the 1990s atop contaminated soils. DEQ hopes remedial construction will begin next year.

Officials initiated a cleanup this summer at the Stodden Park playground in Butte because of soils contaminated with lead.

Purple public vitriol

Meanwhile, some observers of the local Superfund process believe unnecessary conflict and insistence about public access to technical meetings are slowing progress.

Butte resident Al Kesselheim published an op-ed in The Montana Standard in early October that lamented the decidedly purple public vitriol expressed in the ongoing debate regarding Superfund cleanup.

Kesselheim wrote that the uproar over dirty dirt has gotten ridiculous. Like others, he observed that the use of onsite material is described in the Consent Decree signed in 2020 and in the Record of Decision and Scope of Work documents.

Do the detractors really want to drag all the parties and their lawyers back to the table and spend the next couple of decades redrafting another Consent Decree? Kesselheim wrote.

Mick Ringsak, a Butte-based Superfund watchdog, provided the gaslighting analogy described earlier. He offered another quip of a comparison.

He said Beckers brand of collaboration is kind of like Russia showing up in Ukraine.

Beckers op-ed cited the February 2020 Consent Decrees signing at the Finlen Hotel and related celebration. She cited four unattributed quotes from that event lauding the signing. Two were from Patricia Gallery, an executive with Atlantic Richfield.

EPA clarified later that an editing error led to Atlantic Richfields disproportionate showing.

Regulator and regulated

Some observers contend that the relationship between Atlantic Richfield the regulated, and EPA the regulator, is cozier than it should be.

In June, the EPAs regional office in Denver reported it had referred allegations to the Office of the Inspector General that agency employees had colluded with Atlantic Richfield, Montana Resources and others to discredit scientists and research about mining- and smelting-related health impacts in Butte.

The U.S. District Court of Montana approved the Consent Decree in mid-September 2020. At the time, Doug Benevento, then the EPA associate deputy administrator, said the agreement will keep EPA on track to begin delisting Butte in 2024 from the agencys National Priorities List.

Thats not going to happen.

The EPA said Wednesday that a better understanding of the potential timeframe for site or partial deletion can be estimated once the projects move further along in the remedial action phase.

In 1977, Atlantic Richfield purchased the Anaconda Co. and was deemed responsible under federal Superfund law for the profound regional pollution from the Anaconda Co.s mining and smelting operations. British Petroleum, or BP, acquired Atlantic Richfield in 2000.

Don Petritz of Butte attended an Aug. 30 meeting held by EPA. His voice caught that night when he challenged EPA staff to consider whether they would support the use of onsite material if they and their family lived in Butte.

On Monday, Petritz weighed in again.

While I am sure KC has a very difficult job, the comments, in my opinion, are nothing more than boilerplate, he said.

Petritz said Beckers op-ed did not fill him with confidence about EPAs plans for Butte.

The primary contaminants associated with past mining and smelting operations in Butte and Anaconda are arsenic, cadmium, copper, zinc, mercury and lead. When contamination reaches a certain threshold, materials are removed and trucked to a wastes repository.

Wastes in place

Griffin has noted that other Superfund sites have left slightly contaminated soils onsite. Wastes have been left in place or are being left in place at sites ranging from Butte to Bonner, according to Griffin.

Its true at Milltown, Griffin said. Its true for the Clark Fork (River). Its true at Silver Bow Creek. Its true at Parrot Tailings.

He said discussion about the use of onsite material should be part of deliberations about design. And he added that Atlantic Richfield likely wants to design remedies that are both effective and durable.

Observers have noted that leaving some wastes in place will dramatically reduce the need for truck travel to haul material to a repository and to import clean fill.

Atlantic Richfield is considering siting a wastes repository north of the Kelley Mine Area on property it owns. A haul route could potentially travel primarily through Montana Resources property. Josh Bryson of Atlantic Richfield said recently that the envisioned repository would have the capacity to handle additional materials if the agencies opt not to include onsite material in remedial design.

State agencies involved in the Superfund process include DEQ and the Natural Resource Damage Program, or NRDP.

The latter, typically focused on restoration work and not remediation, completed cleanup this year of the Parrot Tailings site near the Butte Civic Center.

NRDP has differed with the EPA about the use of onsite material. An EPA position paper noted, Material found onsite has also been reused at other remediation and restoration projects in Montana, such as the Clark Fork River site and the Parrot Tailings project.

NRDP did not dispute the reference but cited key distinctions: However, the contaminant concentrations allowed in fill generated onsite at the Parrot Project and the Clark Fork Operable Unit are much lower than what EPA is proposing here.

Jim Ford of NRDP has expressed general concerns with EPA allowing high contaminant concentration materials, which would be considered waste on other ongoing cleanup projectsto be used in the remedial projects.

In a letter to Becker dated Oct. 25, J.P. Gallagher, chief executive of Butte-Silver Bow, responded to her op-ed by objecting to what it did not say.

He noted it has been about eight weeks since the community submitted questions to EPA about the use of onsite material and other remedial matters.

Gallagher wrote that nothing in Beckers op-ed addressed those questions or explained the EPAs lack of response. He observed that the lack of response to the community questions does nothing to repair the image of lost trust and transparency.

He added, Without addressing the 900-pound gorilla in the room, EPA will not gain the trust of the community.

Daily scoffs

Former legislator Fritz Daily, of Butte, has hovered for decades like a harrier hawk above the Superfund process in the Mining City.

What (Beckers) editorial told us is that Butte now faces several more years of uncertainty on how and when the main corridor of our town  Silver Bow Creek from Texas Avenue to Montana Street  will be cleaned and restored and receive the quality cleanup and restoration as guaranteed in Superfund and Montana laws and the Montana Constitution, Daily said.

Beckers op-ed noted that design work for each of three sites in the Silver Bow Creek Corridor  Northside Tailings, Diggings East and Butte Reduction Works  is about 30 percent complete.

Daily scoffed.

How incompetent can they possibly get? he said.

Barrett, also not shy about criticizing EPAs handling of the Butte Priority Soils Operable Unit, gives Becker credit for acknowledging residents concerns.

I appreciate the attention KC Becker is giving to Butte, he said.
A man facing sexual assault and attempted kidnapping charges in Missoula was apprehended in Canada after law enforcement issued a warrant for his arrest, prosecutors say.

Cole L. Levine, a former University of Montana law student, was arrested in summer 2022 after a woman reported Levine attacked her in a downtown alleyway. Since then his case has been pending trial. Levine is a New Mexico resident.

Last Friday, Oct. 20, Levine was picked up by Canadian authorities, Missoula Deputy County Attorney Brittany Williams said, after Missoulas pretrial services alerted Missoula officials about a release violation. Subsequently, a $2M warrant was issued for his arrest, court filings show. On Oct. 19, Levines GPS monitor pinged near Bonners Ferry, Idaho, and then communication stopped.

Levine is charged with three felonies: attempted kidnapping, attempted sexual intercourse without consent and aggravated assault causing reasonable apprehension. He previously pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Charging documents allege a woman encountered Levine in downtown Missoula on the evening of Aug. 17, 2022. Levine started abruptly engaging with her verbally and then forced himself on her, she told detectives. As she tried to run away and call 911, charging documents state that Levine chased, grabbed and tripped her and took her phone. Levine's phone then fell onto the ground, and was later recovered by law enforcement.

Hes currently awaiting an extradition hearing in Vancouver, British Columbia, according to Williams. The Missoula County Attorneys Office is in contact with Canadian law enforcement about where Levine will be sent. His trial for the Missoula charges is scheduled for February.

Levine hired a private attorney when his case started, but is now representing himself.

Williams said this is the second time Levine absconded. He left New Mexico earlier this year and was picked up in California.
In May, Idaho U.S. Sen. Jim Risch grilled Interior Secretary Deb Haaland about the proposed Lava Ridge Wind Project, repeatedly  and sometimes animatedly  telling her: Dont do it!

On the floor of the U.S. Senate on Wednesday, Risch introduced a bill by that name that would prohibit any wind or solar energy project proposed for public lands that was disapproved by the Legislature of that state.

Lava Ridge was his catalyst.

Idahoans have been loud and clear on Lava Ridge: Dont DO IT! Yet, the Department of the Interior is still moving full speed ahead, Risch said in a news release. The Dont DO IT Act will empower Idaho and other states to prevent the federal government from implementing unwanted, obstructive, and misaligned wind and solar energy projects on public land, like Lava Ridge.

In a statement for the Times-News, Risch added, Idahoans do not want to look at these massive wind turbines. They deserve a seat at the table when it comes to projects like Lava Ridge, and my bill will give them that.

Southern Idaho has been forced to take a wait-and-see approach to Lava Ridge since the Bureau of Land Management wrapped up a 90-day public comment period for the projects draft environmental impact statement in April. The BLM has since been working to review and record thousands of comments, and a timeline for a decision on the projects future is unknown.

If given the green light, Lava Ridge would place up to 400 turbines  many taller than the 605-foot Space Needle, the spectacular focal point of the Seattle skyline  across nearly 230 square miles of public lands in Jerome, Lincoln and Minidoka counties.

Rischs bill, the Dont Develop Obstructive Infrastructure on our Terrain (Dont DO IT) Act, would require the Interior secretary to reject any such project designated for public lands that doesnt garner state legislative approval.

The Gem States other senator, Mike Crapo, joined Risch in introducing the bill.

Idahoans know what is best for their land and livelihoods, Crapo said in the release. Allowing state legislatures to have oversight on new wind and solar projects on federal land means the federal government and its agencies take into consideration the will of the people closest to the project.

Idaho Reps. Mike Simpson and Russ Fulcher pledged support for Rischs bill, with Simpson describing it as common-sense legislation that puts the people of Idaho first and Fulcher pitching it as a way to prevent the federal government from trying to run roughshod over the State of Idaho when it comes to energy projects that cant make it on their own in the market.

So did Idaho Gov. Brad Little.

States need to be at the table driving new energy resources, and this legislation will make the federal government more responsive to states voices in future energy development, Little said in the release.

Lava Ridge has drawn near-unanimous opposition  from Idahos congressional delegation; the Idaho Legislature, which unanimously passed a resolution in March against the project; and commissioners from Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Jerome, Minidoka, and Twin Falls counties who gathered at the Minidoka National Historic Site in April to jointly sign a resolution asking the BLM to walk away from the project.

Farmers, ranchers and other south-central Idaho landowners have also rallied against Lava Ridge, proposed by New York-based LS Power and its local subsidiary Magic Valley Energy.

The hope is they really do take into consideration the local communitys opinions, Rep. Jack Nelsen, R-Jerome, told the Times-News in April, referring to the BLM.

In a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing this spring, Risch pushed Haaland during a tense seven-minute exchange, even informing her at one point of her own resource advisory committees unanimous recommendation against Lava Ridge. Haaland appeared unaware of the near-unanimous opposition to the project, telling Risch at one point that the BLM was continuing to engage with state and local stakeholders to learn how the community feels and what they have to say.

What did you find out so far? Risch asked.

I dont have a complete readout of all of the meetings, Haaland answered.

Give me an incomplete readout. What did you find out so far? he said.

After Risch summarized the project, he concluded in a raised voice, Dont do it!
State officials on Thursday announced $7.5 million in new funding for behavioral health and substance abuse screening for pregnant and postpartum women across the state.

"There's no more important role in life than being a parent," Gov. Greg Gianforte said in a press release. "With this investment, we're improving health care for new and expecting moms, strengthening our families and communities."

The funding, a mix of federal and private capital, will expand behavioral health care services for new and expecting mothers to all 31 hospitals that deliver babies through the Meadowlark Initiative. Previously, the program has been available in 19 hospitals.

"Montana continues to demonstrate a great need for substance use disorder and mental health services and support for pregnant and postpartum women," said Dr. Aaron Wernham, CEO of the Montana Healthcare Foundation, in the release.

The statewide Meadowlark program is a partnership between the Bozeman-based Montana Healthcare Foundation and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. Its goals are to improve maternal and family outcomes; to reduce newborn drug exposure, neonatal abstinence syndrome and perinatal complications; and to keep children out of foster care.

"As part of our strong commitment to improving access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment services, DPHHS is proud to continue this partnership and eager to expand to more Montana communities," DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said. "In particular, this program has positively impacted our child welfare system by providing preventive care to families at a time when they need it most."
The Forest Service is in the final stage of deciding on a land exchange proposal first submitted to the agency by a stakeholder group in 2021. The proposal would consolidate private and public lands in the Crazy Mountains, where a checkerboard of public and private ownership has complicated the management of the range. The proposal would also address access disputes that have plagued the range for decades.

Wild Montana has followed this proposal from the beginning. While we support consolidation and better access in the Crazies, we have all along advocated for strengthening the proposal's conservation aspects so the exchange would not result in the development of habitat-rich public lands transferred into private ownership.

Since last fall, when the Forest Service released the first draft and analysis, the agency has addressed some of our concerns by providing a more thorough analysis and adding a few modifications. But the latest draft of the proposal released a few weeks ago still leaves the door wide open for commercial and residential development that could fundamentally undermine the wild character of the Crazies and degrade the wildlife habitat on the eastern flanks of the range.

The latest, modified proposal would result in the Forest Service acquiring 6,110 acres of private land in exchange for 3,855 acres of public land, primarily in the Crazy Mountains and some small sections near Big Sky. It would also allow the Yellowstone Club to finance the construction of a new 22-mile trail from Halfmoon Campground to the upper sections of the Sweetgrass Trail called the Sweet Trunk Trail. This new trail would replace the relinquished East Trunk Trail and sections of the Sweetgrass Trail, limiting all public access on the east side of the range to a single trailhead on Big Timber Creek at Halfmoon Campground.

In response to concerns that we and many others have about development in the Crazies, the Forest Service added specific deed restrictions to four parcels in Sweetgrass Canyon, prohibiting mineral development on them and limiting the subdivision of the parcels to a minimum of 160 acres. But these restrictions dont go far enough in providing protections against residential and commercial development, which could very well include resorts, lodges, and other luxury destinations like the Paws Up outside of Missoula. Additionally, there are multiple sections of public land that would go into private ownership without any deed restrictions at all and leave landowners free to develop the land in a way that could seriously impact the range.

The South Crazy Mountain Land exchange, finalized in January 2022, included voluntary conservation easements for public land sections going into private ownership. These easements allowed for traditional land uses, but precluded mineral, residential, industrial, mineral and recreation development (except for one recreational cabin). We ask that the Forest Service and private landowners provide similar assurances in this land exchange on the east side of the range. As it stands, the proposal offers no assurances that the land will stay undeveloped.

We also have concerns about how the Forest Service has analyzed the potential environmental effects of this land exchange. When considering potential impacts on wildlife and other ecosystem values, the agency must consider all reasonably foreseeable future actions, including those by federal and non-federal parties. Instead of considering the effects on wildlife if the newly exchanged parcels were to be developed, the analysis concludes that because the landowners intend to leave the land undeveloped, there will be no negative effects on wildlife. This underlying assumption, based on landowners current intentions but not on trends in Montana that are turning our outdoors into playgrounds for the rich, is a major flaw in the analysis. Thats why we are asking the Forest Service to fully analyze potential environmental effects if the low-lying lands proposed for private ownership are not protected with conservation easements or stronger deed restrictions and are left open for subsequent development.

As it stands, the current, modified draft of the land exchange stands to harm the Crazy Mountains, a breathtaking range that plays a profound historical, cultural, and spiritual role in the lives of the Apsaalooke people and serves as crucial habitat for mountain goats, elk and other wildlife. Were urging the Forest Service to ensure those values are protected in the final draft of the exchange.

For more information about the exchange, visit bit.ly/crala23.
Muscatine Center for Social Action announces new executive director.

Emily Harvey was selected as the new executive director of MCSA and began serving in the position as of Monday.

We have been patient and rigorous in our search for a candidate that brings a significant body of work, education, and mindset that aligns with MCSAs mission, programs, and vision. We have found that person in Emily Harvey," MSCA Board of Directors President Angie Johnson said.

Harvey said she felt very excited and took a moment to express both her gratitude towards the community for being so welcoming to her as well as her eagerness to get to know those within the community.

Im very happy and grateful to be here (at MCSA), and Im really looking forward to all of the exciting opportunities that MCSA has lined up, she said.

Prior to arriving at MCSA, Harvey has been able to gain plenty of experience through other leadership roles, with many focused on housing stabilization, client navigation, education, property development and advocacy. Prior to that, she completed her bachelors degree at Washington University in St. Louis in 2008, and received her masters degree in social work from St. Ambrose University in Davenport in 2013.

I started volunteering with Family Resources as a medical advocate for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and I realized that this was something that I really wanted to make my career, Harvey explained.

From there, she started working for Family Resources before working for the Salvation Army, and eventually Humility Homes and Services, a collaborative Quad-Cities-based organization focused on ending homelessness through both short and long-term housing opportunities and supportive services.

I kind of spread out from the very specific field of intimate partner violence and sexual violence into homelessness and housing services in general, and I just really found that thats kind of where my heart is and what Im really passionate about, Harvey said.

While at Humility Homes, she served as CEO, leading its sheltering and stabilizing services, permanent supporting housing growth, and related programming. With her new role at MCSA, Harvey said that her next step is to eventually relocate to Muscatine sometime in 2024.

Its a lovely and beautiful town, and MCSA really drew me to the area through its innovation and its leadership in the state of Iowa for the services its providing. Muscatine is a place that I could see myself relocating to and really being happy and having a home in, so thats something I look forward to at some point," she said.

Harvey said she plans to start by learning a lot about the organization and providing support to the incredible team thats already here, before then building on the successes that MCSA has already accomplished within the Muscatine community. She also said that she plans to look at what is going to be financially and environmentally sustainable for the future of MCSA.

Unfortunately, I think that these are services that are going to need to be around for quite some time, Harvey said, so I think we need to kind of turn our vision and look at longevity as we ask some questions about what we can do to be stewards in our community in terms of financial security, environmentalism and what we need to do to promote those causes while also making sure our programs are living up to those goals and those values.

20 facts about homelessness in the US 20 facts about homelessness in the US The U.S. has seen a 0.3% increase in homelessness since 2020 Experts from HUD believe that resources from the American Rescue Plan directed toward homelessness assistance lessened the impact of COVID-19 on homelessness The end of the federal eviction moratorium in August 2021 made millions of Americans' housing situations more precarious during the long tail of the COVID-19 pandemic As of August 2022, one year after the federal eviction moratorium was lifted, nearly 12% of Americans experienced a rent increase of $250 or more per month The marked increase in rental prices during COVID-19 likely contributed to the recent rise in homelessness HUD's Emergency Rental Assistance program received more than 12 million applications for assistance between August 2021 and January 2022 40% of all people experiencing homelessness in the U.S. during 2022 were unsheltered Veteran homelessness has decreased by 11% since 2020 and more than 50% since 2010 50,767 families with children experienced homelessness in 2022 Since 2020, unaccompanied youth homelessness has decreased by 12% 6,398 parenting youth taking care of 7,898 children experienced homelessness in 2022, down 13% since 2020 From 2020 to 2022, the number of people who identified as Hispanic or Latino who experienced homelessness rose by 8% The number of people who identify as Hispanic and experienced unsheltered homelessness in 2022 rose 16% since 2020 Natural disasters often have a significant impact on the number of people using shelters
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Tim Scott is all in on Iowa, and he wants to make sure people keep hearing his message as he fights tepid support in polls.

Scotts campaign announced this week it was shifting resources from New Hampshire to Iowa, doubling its staff in the state and boosting its organizing and marketing efforts in the prized first-in-the-nation caucus state.

He's not the first candidate to make that gamble. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced he would surge staff to Iowa and has embarked on a 99-county tour. South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley is boosting her campaign here and opening more offices.

The calculus behind Scott's decision is clear: The South Carolina U.S. senator is lagging behind in Iowa as undecided caucusgoers increasingly flock to Haley, who has built up her support in the state since August. And, like the other candidates, he has a huge hurdle to clear to reach Donald Trump, who, if polls are to be trusted, commands the support of half of Iowas Republicans.

And the picture for Scott doesnt look any better in other early states. Hes in sixth place in New Hampshire, according to FiveThirtyEights average of recent polls. In his home state of South Carolina hes clearly outpaced by DeSantis and Haley as the dueling alternatives to Trump.

If Scott, or any other candidate for that matter, does poorly in Iowa, and worse in New Hampshire and South Carolina, that would spell doom for his campaign. For Trump challengers, the early states are vitally important because they will likely decide who will be the credible challenger to Trump and who should get out of the race.

Can Scott turn it around in Iowa?

At a campaign event in Indianola on Tuesday, a few dozen people packed a tiny meeting room in a Pizza Ranch to hear from Scott. His short stump speech covered the standard GOP candidate issues: Securing the southern border, support for Israel, opposition to China, and a tough-on-crime approach to Americas cities.

He cited scripture as he laid out his priorities, tapping into the background he hopes will woo Iowas outsized evangelical voter base.

Scotts happy warrior attitude, steeped in religion and optimism, seems tailor-made for Iowa. After all, Mike Huckabee won in 2008 on the strength of the evangelical vote.

And he may have an advantage with older voters, too, who skew evangelical and may be less interested in the more populist tone of the newer party leaders like Trump and DeSantis.

Maybe it was just a byproduct of the event being held at a Pizza Ranch at 11 a.m., but the crowd to see Scott in Indianola seemed a little older than the usual Republican campaign event. In a recent YouGov poll of Iowa voters, 39% of voters over 65 said they were considering Scott, which was a higher share than Haley pulled of that age group.

But can he turn those advantages into a win on caucus night? With nearly a dozen candidates still in the race, the race for the Republican nomination is noisy. And based on polling, Scott hasnt shown Iowa voters, yet, why they should listen to his vision over that of DeSantis and Haley, who are the clear top choices of the anti-Trump crowd.

Scott thinks he can change Iowans minds by getting his message out there more.

Its the same message, they just need to hear it more often. And being here will allow that to happen, he told me at the Indianola stop. Having more time available for Iowa will, I think, have the impact that were looking for.

What they're saying

Scott is hoping his pull with evangelicals can boost him to caucus victory. Richard and Becky Long said they support Scott because he talks about religion more than the other candidates.

"I think this nation was founded under God, and the Biden administration has already turned that upside down," Richard Long said.

They said they want to see Scott get the nomination, but that it would take "a lot of money" to build up his support in Iowa.

I'll be watching how Scott's renewed efforts in the state affect his pull with Iowa voters, especially given the attention his rivals are paying here too. There's only so much room, and it's already getting crowded.

What I'm reading

Republican Tim Scott shifts presidential campaign staff from New Hampshire to go all in on Iowa (Thomas Beaumont, Associated Press): Read more about Tim Scott's efforts to ramp up his campaign in Iowa.

Michigan businessman Perry Johnson suspends 2024 presidential bid (Robin Opsahl, Iowa Capital Dispatch): The longer-than-long-shot candidate who touted a "two-cent plan" to save America ended his bid for the White House last week, and shortly after endorsed Trump.

South Carolina Senator Tim Scott holds a town hall meeting to talk about his plans for presidency
Elections are often described as being referendums on recent policy decisions. The 2010 midterm supposedly signaled the publics views on the Affordable Care Act. Similarly, the 2006 midterm theoretically amounted to a vote on the Iraq War. If Congress rushes to regulate artificial intelligence, then the upcoming election could, in part, be a proxy election on that AI policy.

Given the potential of AI to upend our economy, alter our culture and hinder our democracy, why not actually put the topic of AI on the ballot?

The stakes are too high to only give the people an indirect vote on what may be the most consequential regulatory challenge yet to face the United States. Now is the time for the Biden administration and a multitude of U.S. representatives and senators to make good on their commitment to shape AI policy in response to the will of the American people. The best way for them to practice what they preach is to hold a national advisory referendum on when and how to regulate AI.

Lets get some important questions out of the way. Would an AI referendum be legal? Yes, Congress can pass a statute to place a non-binding advisory question on the ballot. Pursuant to the "necessary and proper clause" or, as the Founders called it, "the sweeping clause," Congress has the authority to exercise all implied and incidental powers "conducive" to the "beneficial exercise" of one of its enumerated powers, such as the regulation of interstate commerce and the promotion of the general welfare. A nonbinding referendum related to a technology that has substantial, ongoing and potentially irreversible economic consequences would surely fall within Congresss expansive mandate.

One other preliminary question: Does history support Congress exercising such power? Yes, quite a bit. Throughout history both Democrats and Republicans have considered and introduced legislation advocating for a national referendum on important policy questions. Nearly a century ago, Democrats weighed asking the American people if they supported the nation joining the League of Nations. In 1964, Rep. Charles Gubser, a Republican from California, sponsored a resolution to hold an annual nationwide opinion poll on key policy questions.

Even high-ranking officials have recognized the viability and value of a national referendum. Case in point: In 1980, House Majority Leader Richard Gephardt proposed a modified version of Rep. Gubser's idea, calling for a biannual poll on three designated issues. Its also worth noting that many Americans are accustomed to voting on initiatives and referendums. A majority of states afford the public some form of direct democracy.

Finally, the most important question: Why is an AI referendum necessary? First, the nationwide impact of AI on nearly every aspect of our lives  from education and health care to the economy and transportation  makes this a question too big to leave up to a handful of tech billionaires and career politicians. Though the referendum would be nonbinding on Congress, the results would give voters a chance to see if their representatives actually listen to their constituents.

Second, placing a series of questions pertaining to what values and goals should inform AI regulation would spur more concrete discussions on the topic. For instance, we may never have precise estimates of which professions will be displaced by AI and when. But surely we can and should try harder to provide the public with such information. That way, they can see whether the supposed benefits of AI really outweigh the costs.

Third, this approach would prevent Congress from getting ahead of itself (and the public) by enacting legislation that diverges from the will of the public and has long-term and irreversible unintended consequences. Big regulatory undertakings are akin to aircraft carriers  hard to steer in a new direction.

Lets give the people a chance to directly inform how Congress governs what may be the most consequential technological advance of our time. #LetUsDecideAI
Over 700 students in various secondary schools and colleges in Laikipia County have benefited from a Sh. 4 million bursary, courtesy of Carbon Credits money earned by local conservation groups in their bid to conserve the environment.

The bursary, issued by Upper Naibunga Conservancy in Laikipia North Sub-County, will benefit 642 secondary school students, who will get Sh. 5,000 each per term, while 72 others in various colleges and universities will get Sh. 6,500 per semester.

The bursaries will be paid directly to 72 local secondary schools, 22 tertiary colleges, and 18 universities, where local students learn.

Upper Naibunga Conservancy Chairman Peter Kilesi said that out of the Sh. 12 million received by the Conservancy from the Carbon Credit project, 60 per cent was set aside for improving community livelihoods, such as offering bursaries and providing water for domestic use.

The remaining 40 per cent of the funds will be ploughed back to the Conservancy for rangeland management and effective environmental conservation, such as tree and pasture planting, Kilesi said Tuesday.

He added that the Carbon Credits cash had motivated the local community to be conservation champions, who were ready to conserve their surrounding environment at all costs.

The Northern Rangeland Trust (NRT), an umbrella organisation that manages 43 community conservancies in northern Kenya and the coastal region, said through its Mountain Regional Manager, Aloyce Lekuton, that the conservation efforts by the local communities were bearing fruit, as evidenced by the bursaries and numerous other benefits to improved livelihoods.

Lekuton lauded the management of the beneficiary conservancies for their accountability of the funds, noting that it would give confidence to the local communities.

Other conservancies that have benefited from the carbon credit money are IlNgwesi, Lekuruki, Central, and Lower Naibunga.

We have never received any audit queries from the conservancies under NRT from the Carbon Credit funds. Their accountability levels are commendable, Lekuton said.

Rosemary Nenini observed that the bursaries would go a long way in cushioning residents in school fee payments since the majority had lost their livestock due to drought.

Most of the people here are pastoralists and heavily rely on livestock, but due to drought, the majority have lost thousands of animals for the last two years and were unable to send their children to school. We are happy that our children will be back in class, Nenini said.

A Carbon Credit is a kind of permit that represents 1 tonne of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere. They can be purchased by an individual or, more commonly, a company to make up for carbon dioxide emissions that come from industrial production or emissions from automobiles.

Carbon Credits are generated from projects around the world that pull greenhouse gases (GHGs) out of the atmosphere or keep emissions from being released.

Each time a project verifies they have reduced, avoided, or destroyed one metric tonne of GHG, one Carbon Credit is created.

One Carbon Credit has a monetary value on the compliance and voluntary carbon markets of 40 to 80 dollars, on average. However, this can be expected to fluctuate with supply and demand.
The Ministry of Education will reportedly require 15 helicopters for the administration of national examinations should certain regions of the country experience heavy rains.

The Star reports that Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, through Education Committee Chairperson Julius Melly, presented a report on the floor of the House indicating that Sh500 million will be required for the helicopters.

Kenya National Examination Council is engaging a multi-agency coordinating team under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy President and the Kenya Defence Force to assist in the provision of the helicopters and other needs as they may arise, the report indicates.

The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted intense rainfall in several parts of the country, posing potential challenges for the administration of examinations.

The Examination Preparedness report has identified flooding hotspots such as Nyakach, Nyando, lower areas of River Nzoia, and lower areas of River Sondu, Narok Town, Suswa, Tana River Delta, and Mwatate.

Additionally, it anticipates heavy continuous rainfall in the Lake Victoria Basin Region, Kisii, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Vihiga, Laikipia, Nakuru, and Narok counties. Flash floods are likely in Lodwar, Lokichar, Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru, and Mombasa.

Landslide risks are identified in West Pokot, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mt. Elgon, Narok, Nakuru, Baringo, Muranga, Kitui, and Kilungu in Makueni County.

The report emphasizes the commitment of the Ministry of Education, through the Kenya National Examination Council (Knec), to uphold the delivery of quality assessments in accordance with its mandate.

To achieve this, regular reviews have been done to ensure all the necessary pre-requisite measures are in place so as to guarantee effective conduct of the 2023 National Examinations and assessments, CS Machogu indicated in the report.
Napas Queen of the Valley Medical Center will no longer have its own CEO.

The local chief executive job has been combined into a regional role, a news release from the Providence health care system announced.

Terry Wooten, the current CEO at the Queen, will step down on Nov. 17.

"This was a very difficult decision," as Wooten is "deeply connected" to Providence, said Laureen Driscoll, chief executive of the Providence South Division, in a statement to employees.

However, the change was made as part of Providences journey to streamline executive roles so we can preserve resources for front-line caregivers and become nimbler and more responsive to the times, said a news release.

Northern California will become a single service area under the direction of one leader, Garry Olney, who will serve as the Northern California service area chief executive.

This new service area structure will increase our collective focus on quality, access to care, disease prevention and health equity," said the company.

Olney will also become the chief executive of another local Providence hospital, Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, said the release. He recently worked as a CEO at Providence hospitals in southern California.

Wooten became the CEO of the Queen in Napa in June 2021. Before that, he was a hospital COO in southern California.

Wooten did not respond to a request for comment.

But in a 2021 interview, Wooten said he was working on strategies to deal with the declining reimbursements and overall pressures facing the Queen and the healthcare industry in general.

Like every system, we are looking at ways of being more efficient and cost-effective, the CEO said at that time. Were doing well, but are always looking for ways to be more efficient."

In a message this week to caregivers about the CEO job cut, Wooten said it was a privilege and honor working with some of the most talented and caring people in health care.

During my 27 years with Providence, Ive felt a deep sense of purpose and alignment with the Mission given to us by the Sisters of Providence and the Sisters of St. Joseph, said Wooten. Napa is incredibly blessed to have an institution like the Queen and people like our caregivers caring for the community.

Providence said though the Napa CEO role has been eliminated, the Queen plans to hire a chief administrative officer for the Napa hospital.

Other administrative jobs at the Queen are not being eliminated at this time, according to Providence.

The change comes as rising costs for labor, supplies, and drugs, continued workforce shortages, sicker patients and longer hospital stays have increased pressures on Americas hospitals and health systems, reported the American Hospital Association.

In an April report, the association found expenses across the board saw double-digit increases in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels, including for workforce, drugs, medical supplies, and equipment, as well as other essential operational services like IT, sanitation, facilities management, and food and nutrition services.

These factors led to the most financially challenging year for hospitals and health systems since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving over half of hospitals operating at a financial loss at the end of 2022, and with negative operating margins continuing into 2023, said the association.

This puts access to vital services at risk.

Photos: Meet the Queen of the Valley Medical Center's new chief exec: Terry Wooten Terry Wooten, Queen of the Valley Medical Center Terry Wooten, Queen of the Valley Medical Center Terry Wooten, Queen of the Valley Medical Center Terry Wooten, Queen of the Valley Medical Center Terry Wooten
Two elves have been working year-round to produce an annual event that draws hundreds, if not thousands of shoppers to downtown Napa.

Its the Treasures of Christmas Past sale, produced by Napa nonprofit Community Projects.

Christmas trees, wreaths, ornaments, holiday lights, stockings, snowglobes and even ugly sweaters. Bargain shoppers can find all of the above and much, much more at the thrift store event. Prices range from $1 for a Christmas magnet to the $100 range for an exceptional outdoor display or piece of fine jewelry.

The sale is only one day, Nov. 4, but the prep for the event goes on all year. This year Paula Totten and Joan Jorgensen are the head elves in charge of the production. The two, along with many staffers and volunteers, have been sorting and saving anything Christmas or winter holiday-themed all year.

Over the past 10 months, all such holiday items have been tucked into nooks and crannies and closets and attics and sheds and even the basement of the Community Projects building at 715 Franklin St.

We have at least 400 to 500 storage tubs of Christmas, in the basement alone, said Totten.

We receive an amazing assortment of new and many family treasures, she said. Customers come from all areas of the Bay Area to shop on this one day.

Other items that are saved for the sale include Christmas and winter holiday books, toys, records, dolls, glassware, mugs, antiques, holiday decor, fine silver, heritage linens, handmade items, seasonal collectibles, wrapping supplies, candles and cookie cutters.

Totten is a newer Community Projects volunteer  shes been a part of the group for the past 18 months. But that didnt stop her from stepping up to co-manage the Treasures sale.

Before she retired, Totten worked in retail for many years, including at high-end stores such as I. Magnin and at boutiques on Rodeo Drive and Melrose Avenue.

One of the volunteers said, You'd be really great at this.

I said Well, OK, let me think about it.

Many months later, she and her many other "elves" are just days away from their signature event.

Im starting to feel the calm before the shopping storm, said Totten. Its really coming together.

Frequent Community Projects shoppers will notice how the thrift store is completely transformed for the sale. All of the regular merchandise and clothing is moved out, and anything Christmas or winter holidays is moved in.

Its amazing, said Totten.

Another Community Projects volunteer, Chris Brown, said she thinks the Treasures sale is so popular because of all of the good deals we have, she said.

This is not a clearance type of event, explained the two volunteers. Its a curated sale of quality items. For example, Totten pointed out a snow globe filled with murky brown water. That will be recycled, she said.

The Treasures event is the second of Community Projects two annual sales. The Puttin on the Glitz sale was held on Oct. 7 and featured designer, high end and specialty items and clothing.

Shoppers line up around the block for both sales, said Totten. We let 75 in at a time, otherwise it would be way too crowded inside the store.

Whats one of the most unusual items shes saved for this years Treasures sale?

That's hard to say because I've been doing Christmas all year. Perhaps a life-sized animatronic Santa that was donated to the nonprofit, said Totten. His head needs to be repaired, but hes for sale.

Treasures of Christmas Past sale Community Projects Thrift Shop Saturday, Nov. 4 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 715 Franklin St., Napa 707-226-7585 communityprojectsnapa.com

After spending so much time on Christmas, is she over the holiday?

Nooooo, said Totten. Especially knowing that the sale raises tens of thousands of dollars which ultimately go to help other local nonprofits. Since its founding in 1941, Community Projects has donated nearly $16 million to Napa County schools and other Napa County organizations.

Photos: A look inside Community Projects Thrift Store and the dedicated folks that keep it humming Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects Napa Thrift Store Community Projects 80th Birthday 3 Community Projects 80th Birthday 19 Community Projects 80th Birthday 17
BANGKOK  California Gov. Gavin Newsom had a surprise meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday after being warmly welcomed by other senior leaders in a display of friendliness that stands in sharp contrast to the dialogue between the United States and China in recent years.

The governor is on a weeklong tour of China, where he plans to push for climate cooperation. Newsom's trip as governor, once considered routine, is drawing attention as it comes after years of heightening tensions between the U.S. and China.

Im here in expectation, as you suggest, of turning the page, of renewing our friendship and reengaging (on) foundational and fundamental issues that will determine our collective faith in the future, Newsom said in brief opening remarks ahead of his meeting with Wang Yi, China's top diplomat, earlier in the day.

Though Newsom was in China to promote cooperation in curbing climate change, Chinese officials took the opportunity in welcome speeches ahead of the closed-door meetings to talk about U.S.-China relations. Wang is preparing to visit the U.S. on Thursday.

Newsom and Xi discussed ways to accelerate our progress on climate in meaningful and substantive ways, the California governor said at a news conference, but did not mention more specifics.

They also talked about fentanyl, a synthetic drug and leading killer of young people in the U.S., and Chinas role in combating the transnational shipping of precursor chemicals, Newsom said.

According to China's state broadcaster CCTV, Xi told Newsom: I hope your visit will enhance mutual understanding between the two sides and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the healthy and stable development of Sino-U.S. relations."

Xi may attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco next month and meet with U.S. President Joe Biden, although China has not formally confirmed his attendance.

Newsom is visiting Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu. At a speech at Hong Kong University on Monday, he promised to continue to cooperate on climate change regardless of the outcome of the next U.S. presidential election.

He said he raised human rights issues with Wang and the two also discussed Taiwan, a red-line issue for Beijing. China claims the self-ruled island as part of its own territory.

I expressed my support for the One-China policy ... as well as our desire not to see independence, Newsom said, referring to the official U.S. policy that recognizes the Communist Party as the ruling government of China. Officially, the U.S. does not recognize Taiwan but is its biggest unofficial ally.

Wang, the head of the Communist Partys office of foreign affairs, said he knows Newsom's trip attracted plenty of critics but that he views the trip positively.

But I think time and facts will certainly prove that your visit to China is in line with California peoples wishes and in line with the American peoples interests and the expectations of the global society.

Newsom also met Wednesday with Vice President Han Zheng, who greeted him with a wide smile and called him an old friend. Han is a past member of the Politburo Standing Committee, an elite group of leaders within the party.

The China-U.S. relationship is the most important bilateral relationship in the world, and the sub-national cooperation is an indispensable part to facilitate the sound and steady growth of China-U.S. relations," Han said. Im sure your weeklong trip will inject positive energy to the development of the China-U.S. relationship.

The governor met as well with the head of China's National Development and Reform Commission, a Cabinet-level agency responsible for economic policies. They signed a memorandum on deepening cooperation in environmental issues.

Governors of California, which has an economy larger than most countries, have a long history of climate collaboration with China. Democrat Jerry Brown and Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger also traveled to China to swap knowledge on reducing air pollution and emissions.

Since leaving office, Brown launched the California-China Climate Institute at the University of California, Berkeley.
Armenia, which is bound by a military alliance and economic union with Russia, is looking for new partners because Moscow has not fulfilled its alliance obligations, especially during Azerbaijan's seizure of Nagorno-Karabakh last month. According to The Wall Street Journal, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this during his interview with the daily.

"These situations, in fact, led us to a decision that we need to diversify our relations in the security sector; and we're trying to do that now," he said. Pashinyan added that for this reason he does not see any advantage in continuing the presence of Russian military bases in Armenia.

In the interview, Pashinyan said that he continues to look optimistically at the prospect of achieving a peaceful settlement with Azerbaijan in the coming months. The future of the region, according to him, should be the opening of closed borders and trade routes, including the road connection between Turkey and Azerbaijan passing through Armeniabut as long as Armenia's sovereignty is respected.

Our understanding is not that it is necessary to provide security only with the army, but also to go for peace in the region,: he said.

In response to the question about Armenias historical relations with Russia, Pashinyan urged instead to pay attention to Armenias longer history with the Turkic states: Azerbaijan and Turkey.

"Here are all the questions and here are the answers to all the questions," he said. "First of all, to improve our relations in our region."

The diversification of security relations that Armenia strives for, Pashinyan added, should be understood as an aspiration to achieve lasting regional peace, and not just an expectation of the deployment of western military bases and weapons.
I would, however, separate the issue of ethnic cleansing in Nagorno-Karabakh and the issue of more than 100 thousand new refugees and military operations against Nagorno-Karabakh from the question of Azerbaijan's possible aggression against Armenia. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with The Wall Street Journal.

Of course, I will not say that there are no correlations between these issues, but they are separate issues. Of course, we hope that in the near future the agreements reached at the quadrilateral meeting in Prague on October 6, 2022, at the trilateral meeting in Brussels on May 14, 2023 and at the trilateral meeting in Brussels on July 15, 2023 will be formalized, will be reaffirmed and become the basis for the peace treaty. I want to remind those agreements expressed in the statement of the President of the European Council and the Prague statement.

The first principle is that Armenia and Azerbaijan mutually recognize each other's territorial integrity. This provision was agreed on at the Prague meeting and already on May 14, 2023, another step was taken in Brussels and it was recorded that Azerbaijan recognizes the territorial integrity of 29,800 square km of Armenia, and Armenia recognizes the territorial integrity of 86,600 square km of Azerbaijan.

The second principle is that the delimitation process between Armenia and Azerbaijan should take place on the basis of the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration. And what is special about it? Its peculiarity is that at the time of signing, the countries of the Soviet Union were already becoming or had become de facto independent countries, and with the Alma-Ata Declaration they recorded that they recognized the existing Soviet administrative borders between the republics as state borders, recognized the inviolability and territorial integrity of these borders. When we say that the delimitation of the borders should take place on the basis of the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration, it is meant that the state maps existing at that time should be taken for the basis of the border delimitation.

And the third principle is that the opening of communications in the region, including the opening of roads and railways of Armenia and Azerbaijan for mutual and international trade, should take place on the basis of the principles of sovereignty, jurisdiction, equality and reciprocity of the countries.

These principles are practically agreed upon, and it remains to conclude a peace treaty based on these agreed principles and move forward, Pashinyan added.

He emphasized that there is a preliminary agreement to hold a tripartite meeting in Brussels at the end of October.

I hope that these agreements will be reaffirmed during that meeting, which will mean that about 70 percent of the necessary agreements for a peace treaty have been reached. And it remains to put those principles in the text of the peace treaty, the Armenian PM added.

It should be noted, however, that today it became known that the expected meeting in Brussels between European Council President Charles Michel, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev will not be held at the end of October. Armenian Minister of Foreign Affairs Ararat Mirzoyan noted that apparently, the Azerbaijani president did not find time for this meeting.
At least at this moment I have already said that, unfortunately, we have not seen the advantages in the sidelines of the cases I have described. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, when asked whether Russia's military presence in Armenia is an asset or a liability.

In May 2021 and September 2022, Azerbaijan carried out aggressive actions against Armenia and occupied territories. The Collective Security Treaty and the Charter of the Collective Security Treaty Organization clearly state the actions to be taken when aggression against a member state occurs. What was described did not happen and, of course, it is disappointing for both the Armenian government and the Armenian public.

Also, we have a bilateral agreement with Russia in the field of security, and the actions described in that agreement also did not take place, which also raised very serious questions among both the Government and the public, Pashinyan said, answering the question about Armenias relations with Russia.

As for Armenias relations with other partners, the PM said: I will be more honest if I say that these situations, in fact, led us to a decision that we need to diversify our relations in the security sector. And we're trying to do that now.

However, according to Pashinyan, they are not discussing the matter of withdrawal the Russian military bases from Armenia.

We are now more focused on discussing other issues, we are trying to understand what the cause of such a situation is, and of course, I also think that this will be the agenda of working discussions between Armenia and Russia, Armenia and the Collective Security Treaty Organization, Nikol Pashinyan added.
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The Armenian people and leadership have questions regarding the actions of the Russian peacekeeping troops in Nagorno Karabakh, the actions or rather the inaction of the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) in May 2021, September 2022. The same applies to the bilateral security agreements of Russia and Armenia. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with The Wall Street Journal, when asked what questions there are about the behavior of the Russian troops and of Russia.

We have started a conversation, a dialogue on these issues. I mean, it's not like that this conversation isn't taking place. That conversation is still taking place today, I had the opportunity to speak on that topic, our various partners are speaking, and that conversation will continue because here it is really very important that we and Russia understand each other better and more correctly, Pashinyan said.

And when asked why Armenia is still a member in the CSTO, the premier said: It is for the same reason that we are in the process of discussing issues, because we do not want to have misunderstood the Collective Security Treaty Organization on any issue and we do not want the Collective Security Treaty Organization to have misunderstood us on any issue. For this, we need to carry out consistent work until the time is ripe to draw any conclusions.
According to Armenian News-NEWS.ams information, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) of Armenia has not yet officially petitioned to Russia to unilaterally terminate the multi-million dollar arms supply contract signed with the country's military industrial companies back in 2021 and to pay a fine for non-fulfillment of contractual obligations, despite the fact that Armenia never received the weaponry provided for in the contract.

In relation to the matter, Armenian News-NEWS.am sent a written request to the MoD of Armenia to find out how many of the obligations stipulated in the arms supply contracts with Russian military industrial companies since 2021 have not been fulfilled by the Russian side, and for what reason? We were also interested in whether the MoD of Armenia unilaterally terminated the arms supply contract with Russian military industrial companies and demanded to pay a fine for non-fulfillment of the contractual obligations. In response to our inquiry, Hamlet Batikyan, Secretary General of the MoD of Armenia, refused to provide information, citing item 19 of the list approved by the government's relevant decision "On approving the list of information classified as state secrets."

According to the aforementioned provision of the decision, information revealing the amount of state defense orders, supplies of weapons and military equipment, the plans (tasks) of their production capacity are classified as state secrets.

Let's note, however, that our questions to the MoD of Armenia are not related to the amount of supplies, but exclusively to the non-fulfillment of the obligations stipulated in the supply contracts, and the corresponding steps resulting from it.

It is noteworthy that the MoD of Armenia did not consider it a state secret and published a document in official sources in October last year regarding the termination of the arms supply contract with a Jordanian company back in 2021 and the payment of the corresponding fine.

Recently, the Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia, Armen Grigoryan, stated in an interview with the Novaya Gazeta Europa periodical that Armenia did not receive the weapons it ordered and paid for from Russia.
In its Cabinet session Thursday, the government of Armenia approved the description of the identity document of the person forcibly displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh under temporary protection, as well as the refugee who received temporary protection and the procedure for its issuance.

Minister of Justice Grigor Minasyan, presenting the respective draft decision, noted the persons who will be taken under temporary protection by the Armenian government's decision. Accordingly, they are persons who are registered in the population register of Nagorno-Karabakh, persons residing in the territory of Armenia or outside Armenia, whose last registered address was in Nagorno-Karabakh, and the 3rd group are persons who were not registered in the population register of Nagorno-Karabakh, but lived in Nagorno-Karabakh and were registered by the Migration and Citizenship Service of Armenia after September 19.

"In fact, the residents of Nagorno-Karabakh today do not have the opportunity to return to their country of permanent residence. As a result of the adoption of the draft, the legal status of forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh will be clarified, and thus also the scope of their rights and responsibilities," the minister added, in particular.

Grigor Minasyan emphasized that persons taken under temporary protection become refugees by force of law and enjoy the rights provided for refugees by law and international conventions, including the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.

"The adoption of the draft will provide an opportunity to start more effective protection of their rights and legal interests," he announced.

He added that after the entry into force of this decision, all forcibly displaced persons from Nagorno-Karabakh will automatically become refugees and within three months they can get a refugee document from the relevant agencies o Armenia, which they need in case of travel.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan, for his part, stated that people having that refugee status have the right to apply for and receive Armenian citizenship with all the additional rights and responsibilities arising from it, including receiving a pension, but also, for example, upon becoming a citizen and receiving a pension, the social support being provided to the refugee will not be appropriate.
We are currently working on the draft peace and relations normalization agreement with Azerbaijan, and I hope that this process will be successfully completed in the coming months. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan announced this in his address at the Tbilisi Silk Road International Forum Thursday.

Pashinyan noted the two principles of the peace agenda, on which an agreement was reached with Azerbaijan.

"Armenia and Azerbaijan mutually recognize each other's territorial integrity with the understanding that the territory of Armenia is 29 thousand 800 square kilometers, the territory of Azerbaijan is 86 thousand 600 square kilometers. This encyclopedic record was made so that the statements being made by Armenia and Azerbaijan about recognizing each other's territorial integrity leave no room for saying that by recognizing the territorial integrity of the given country, the opposite country means only a part of its internationally recognized territory.

Armenia and Azerbaijan agree to carry out border delimitation on the basis of the 1991 Alma Ata Declaration. The symbolic meaning of that declaration is as follows: the Soviet Union will cease to exist and the 12 republics that signed the declaration, including Armenia and Azerbaijan, recognize each other's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and the inviolability of administrative borders, and therefore the existing administrative borders between the republics of the Soviet Union become national borders.

I hope that the peace treaty with Azerbaijan will be signed in the coming months. I hope in the near future there will be developments also towards opening the border between Armenia and Turkey for citizens of third countries and holders of diplomatic passports," he said.

In his address, Pashinyan spoke also on the "Crossroads of Peace" project and noted its principles.

"All [regional] infrastructures, including motorways, railways, airways, pipelines, cables, power lines, operate under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the countries through which they pass. Each country implements border and customs control in its territory through its state institutions, as well as ensures the safety of infrastructures, including the passage of goods, vehicles, and people through them. In the near future, a special unit will be created in the law enforcement system of Armenia, whose function will be to ensure the safety of international communications passing through Armenia, the passage of goods, vehicles, and people in cooperation with our patrol police. The mentioned infrastructures can be used for both international and domestic transportation. All countries use each other's infrastructures on the principle of equality and reciprocity, thus a certain simplification of border and customs control procedures can be implemented. On the basis of these principles, Armenia's readiness to open, reopen, reconstruct, build all regional communications. They are necessary to avoid a number of misunderstandings, various interpretations. In the near future, we will officially present this project also to the governments of the countries of the region, and I hope that with joint efforts, including in conditions of investor activeness, we will be able to implement it," the Armenian PM said.
Canada will send two observers to Armenia to join the European Union monitoring mission in Armenia (EUMA), Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan has said.

The observers will arrive in a short period of time, he said, Armenpress reported.

The Canadian Foreign Minister said that Canada is the first country outside of the EU that has expressed willingness to send observers to Armenia, and two observers will arrive to Armenia in a short period of time. We hope that Canada will enhance its contribution in the future, Hovhannisyan told reporters in Jermuk during Canadian FM Melanie Jolys visit.

He described the opening of the Canadian embassy in Yerevan as a sign of special attention towards Armenia.

During the visit the Canadian foreign minister addressed humanitarian support issues, Canada tripled its assistance, and all directions for deepening the cooperation were outlined. Canada is interested in the prospect of increasing its support to the democratic and human rights reforms in Armenia and numerous issues were discussed in this regard. Politically, the minister numerously stressed that Armenias independence, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders are important for Canada, the Armenian deputy FM said.

Hovhannisyan said Jolys visit to the town of Jermuk was meaningful and symbolic.

The minister observed the situation on the ground and is now meeting with the refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, and before that she observed the Azerbaijani military that invaded Armenias sovereign territory in September 2022. Its no secret that Canada is a powerful country whose voice is rather influential in international organizations, Hovhannisyan said, adding that Jolys visit created very good prerequisites for deepening cooperation between Armenia and Canada.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly on Thursday visited the EUMA operating base in Jermuk. Then, together with EUMA observers, Joly visited an Armenian military position outside Jermuk to become acquainted with the situation on the border with Azerbaijan. She then met with forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh who have been accommodated in Jermuk.
The ninth session of the Armenia-EU Joint Readmission Committee was held Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The meeting was attended by the representatives of the MFA and the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Armenia, the European Commission, the EU delegation to Armenia, embassies of the EU member states, as well as FRONTEX.

The meeting was co-chaired by Armen Ghazaryan, the Head of the Migration and Citizenship Service of Armenia, and Silvena Pesta, the Head of Unit of the Irregular Migration and Returns of the Directorate General for Migration and Home Affairs of the European Commission.

The parties discussed the status of bilateral implementation of the Armenia-EU readmission agreement, the statistics on readmission issues, as well as other technical and substantive issues aimed at further increasing the effectiveness of the implementation of the agreement.

The sides touched upon the currently ongoing state reintegration assistance program and the work undertaken towards improving the system of voluntary return and reintegration to Armenia. The European side, in its turn, commended the effective cooperation with the Armenian side.

The parties agreed to continue the active steps towards the further implementation of the Armenia-EU readmission agreement.
Obviously, our region, the South Caucasus, needs peace. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in his address at the Tbilisi Silk Road International Forum Thursday.

And what is peace? It is a state of affairs where countries live with open borders, are connected by active economic, political, and cultural ties, with accumulated experience and tradition of solving all issues diplomatically and through dialogue. This is what real peace is; and as you see, all of that, i.e. open borders, economic, political, and cultural ties are impossible without roads, Pashinyan added.

This is the reason why our Government developed and presents the Crossroads of Peace project as an important part of the peace agenda. The key essence of that project is the development of communications between Armenia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and the Islamic Republic of Iran by means of renovating, building, and operating roads, railways, pipelines, cables, and electricity lines.

The railways passing through the south and north of Armenia have not been functioning regionally for thirty years, nor are many highways connecting the east and the west, while the reactivation of these roads would become a short and efficient route connecting the Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean, both by rail and road.

Along the same lines, these rail and automotive communications could become an efficient route linking the Gulf with the Georgian ports on the South-Eastern shores of the Black Sea. Such a project would bring enormous benefits to all countries of our region, and I wish to invite the attention of governments and private investors to this opportunity.

After the speech, during the event, representatives of my team will distribute brochures about our project to the participants of the conference, and we will be happy to hear feedback and receive support on the way to the implementation of the project.

To be complete, I consider it important to emphasize the principles of Crossroads of Peace, which are as follows.

Principle #1 All infrastructures, including roads, railways, airways, pipelines, cables, and electricity lines, operate under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the countries through which they pass.

Principle #2 Each country, through its state institutions, in its territory ensures border, customs control and security of all the infrastructures, including the passage through its territory of vehicles, cargo, and people. In fact, in the near future, a special unit will be created within Armenias law-enforcement system, which will have the function of ensuring the security of international communications passing through Armenia, as well as the cargo, vehicles, and people using them, of course jointly with our Patrol Police.

Principle #3 These infrastructures can be used for both international and domestic transportation.

Principle #4 All countries use all the infrastructures on the basis of reciprocity and equality. According to the principle of reciprocity and equality, border and customs control procedures can be somewhat streamlined, too.

I wish to reiterate Armenias readiness to open, reopen, reconstruct, build all regional communications based on these principles.

The aforementioned principles are needed to avoid a number of misunderstandings, misreading, and differing interpretations. In the near future, we will also officially present this project to the governments of the countries of our region, and I hope that with joint efforts, including the involvement of investors, we will be able to implement it.

()

Returning to the "Crossroads of Peace", I must note that it fully fits in the logic of the Silk Road and we will be glad to receive in Armenias territory and to safely dispatch people, vehicles, goods, pipelines, cables, and electricity lines. Thank you. And in conclusion, I want to wish success to the "Silk Road" conference and wish for productive work. Thank you, the Armenian PM said.
On the margins of the Global Gateway Forum being held in Brussels, Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan was on hand at the signing of the EU statement on the finalization of the agreement on allocating an investment grant to establish two SMART education centers in Syunik Province of Armenia.

The statement was signed by Oliver Varhelyi, the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, and Ambroise Fayolle, Vice President of the European Investment Bank, the Armenian President's Office informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

Emphasizing the importance of establishing such education centers in Armenia, President Khachaturyan stated: "Today, an important step was taken towards the implementation of two informal education centers to be built in Syunik Province of the Republic of Armenia and being operated by COAF [i.e. the Children of Armenia Fund]. This can help to further strengthen the link between formal and non-formal education, as the latter is a key support of the former. Moreover, the construction of these smart centers in Syunik will contribute to the realization of the greater goal of the development of the southern regions of Armenia."
In its relations with Yerevan, Moscow expects to receive information about what Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan meant when he spoke about "the need to diversify relations in the security sector." Dmitry Peskov, Press Secretary of the Russian President, told reporters about this, according to TASS.

"In this case, we are not inclined to accept The Wall Street Journal as a source, so we still need to understand what Mr. Pashinyan talked about. And of course, we expect to receive all the information on this account in the conversation with our Armenian friends. And of course, it is not appropriate for Russia and Armenia to communicate through newspapers, especially The Wall Street Journal. Therefore, we continue the conversation, the dialogue with our Armenian friends, and we will continue to do so; we have a very broad agenda," Peskov noted.

The representative of the Kremlin added that Russia continues its efforts, "attempts to help Baku and Yerevan to reach, nonetheless, the signing of a peace treaty".

"This is necessary for the stabilization of the situation in the region and the emergence of a more positive standard of living," concluded the Russian presidential press secretary.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan had said that Azerbaijan's aggressive actions and CSTO's inaction "in fact, led us to a decision that we need to diversify our relations in the security sector."
The Minister of High-Tech Industry of Armenia, Robert Khachatryan, received the new Belgian ambassador, Eric De Muynck, the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia informs Armenian News-NEWS.am.

The minister presented the scope of activities of the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia and the work being carried out in that regard.

The ambassador, in turn, noted that it is binding for him to be the first resident ambassador of Belgium to Armenia, and the opening of the Belgian embassy in Armenia can create serious prerequisites for establishing strong ties between the technological communities of the two countries and foreshadowing prospects for cooperation.

During the meeting, details were presented about the infrastructure of Armenia's high-tech sector, the activities of the countrys companies in this sector, and development prospects.

Several other matters of bilateral interest were discussed, too.

At the end of the meeting, Ambassador De Muynck assured that he will take the necessary steps, within his powers, to establish and strengthen relations between Armenia and Belgium in the domains of activities by the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia.
In the period between January and August of this year, Armenia's trade with other CIS countries increased by almost 55 percent compared to the amount of the previous year. Deputy Prime Minister of Armenia Mher Grigoryan announced this in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, at the meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government and the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council.

"At the same time, the export from Armenia has increased more than twice. In the future, the Armenian government intends to use all tools to maintain these positive dynamics in mutual trade with [the other] EAEU member states and CIS member states," Grigoryan added.

He noted that Armenia supports the adoption of the renewed package of measures aimed at the implementation of the agreement on cooperation in mining and metallurgy.

"The development of inter-sectoral cooperation is also important to ensure sustainable development and to deepen cooperation in this direction," added the deputy PM of Armenia.
Belonging was the theme of the day as Emory marked the grand opening of six new student identity spaces in the heart of campus.

Held on Saturday, Oct. 21, during Homecoming weekend, the packed event brought together students, families, alumni, faculty, staff and university leaders to celebrate the new homes of the Emory Black Student Union, Office of LGBT Life, Center for Women, Centro Latinx, Asian Student Center and Emory First, a space for students who are the first in their families to attend college.

The identity spaces, all part of Campus Lifes Belonging and Community Justice, are located on the third floor of Cox Hall, in the middle of Emorys campus and beneath the iconic clock tower.

Designed to encourage intersectionality, the beautifully decorated individual spaces open onto shared communal areas where students can gather beneath signs proclaiming the wise heart seeks belonging  an expansion of Emorys motto Cor prudentis possidebit scientiam, or the wise heart seeks knowledge.

At the grand opening, attendees filled that central space, overflowing into corridors as Emory leaders offered remarks about the importance and impact of the new spaces before lining up to cut the ribbon marking the official opening.

Emory President Gregory L. Fenves began with a quote from scholar and author Brene Brown: True belonging doesnt require that we change who we are. It requires that we be who we are.

That's one of the driving purposes of this space  that we want every student at Emory to feel that this is a place where they can be themselves, a place to feel accepted, respected and at home, he said.

Fenves has been a champion of the new spaces since he visited the university in summer 2020, shortly before taking the helm as Emorys president. Touring some of the identity spaces in their original locations on that visit, during the height of the COVID pandemic and the national racial reckoning in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, he was dismayed to see peeling paint, old carpets and other signs of disrepair. We resolved that we were going to do better, that we must do better, that it was essential for Emory to serve our purpose and to serve our students to do better, he said.

Enku Gelaye, senior vice president and dean of Campus Life, noted the symbolism of bringing each identity space together in Cox Hall.

For more than five decades, Cox Hall has been at the center of cultural action on this campus. Located centrally along a bridge, it connects colleges and fields of study to one another. This is the physical core of campus, she said. Now, with the inclusion of Belonging and Community Justice in this building, Cox Hall can be the heart of campus as well.

To Kristina Odejemi, who arrived this summer to serve as Emorys new dean of students and associate vice president for belonging, engagement and community, the identity spaces are part and parcel of the universitys educational mission.

At Emory, we want students to be able to take full advantage of the extraordinary educational opportunities. To do so they must feel welcome and that they belong, she said.

The new identity spaces provide room for all students to learn about different cultures and a place for students to connect across their identities, expanding their personal understanding of themselves, the world around them, and making deep connections with those with shared experiences.

Transformational spaces

The new identity spaces reflect the collaboration of a diverse range of students, building on the legacy of generations of student advocacy.

Braden White  a senior in Emory College majoring in philosophy and minoring in womens, gender and sexuality studies  serves as a student ambassador with the Center for Women and discussed how her involvement in Belonging and Community Justice has shaped her experience at Emory.

Im so grateful for the friends that Ive made and the community that Im a part of building, she said. While even the old spaces always felt like home  this space that we stand in today feels so different and so wonderful.

Every day we feel the intentionality and love that built them, White explained. There is no longer a sense of being tucked away or hidden. Were in the middle of campus, we know we matter and we know we belong.

Belonging and Community Justice, she noted, is more than just a place: I hope it will be for you everything that it has been for me. If youre ever having trouble finding your way, I hope youre able to come back to this anchor.

Alumni speaker Munir Meghjani, who concluded his term as president of the Emory Alumni Board during Homecoming weekend, reflected on his experiences at the university more than a decade ago. As a young person, he said he often felt that he needed to downplay his identities  as South Asian, Muslim, low income and first generation  in order to assimilate.

The reality is that I wasn't confident to really be my whole self, to wear my own cultural clothes, said Meghjani, who graduated from Oxford College in 2008 and Emory College in 2010. I was so willing to be an American that I was willing to give up my own culture and heritage. It was thanks to my community at Emory that that started to change.

While he found cultural connections on campus, I wish that we had these very programs and resources that exist today, knowing how transformational spaces can be, especially those that allow you to be you, he continued. Spaces that are built just for you. Because there's a big difference between you are welcome here, and we built this for you, with you, and you belong here.

With the crowd counting down, the speakers then joined other campus leaders to cut the ceremonial ribbon, officially welcoming everyone to Emorys new hub  and home  for Belonging and Community Justice.

Skip carousel After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the Emory community toured the new spaces and enjoyed refreshments and socializing. Previous Next

All photos by Kay Hinton of Emory Photo/Video.
The Emory University Board of Trustees has elected two new members: Darren W. Cohen, co-head and chief investment officer (CIO) of the Goldman Sachs Growth Equity team; and Robin Dease, the episcopal leader of the North Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church.

The Board of Trustees oversees the governance and long-term well-being of the institution by establishing policy and exercising fiduciary responsibility. The board may have up to 45 active trustees and each serves a six-year initial term; four-year renewable terms may follow.

Cohen has served as the co-head and CIO of the Goldman Sachs Growth Equity team since 2018. In this capacity, he manages a $5.2 billion global growth fund and oversees one of the largest dedicated growth equity platforms in the world focused on the enterprise software, financial technology and health care technology sectors.

Cohen is an accomplished technology investor with a career of more than 25 years spanning public and private global markets. His investment journey began in fundamental research, honed during his tenure as a technology research analyst in Goldman Investment Research from 2000 to 2004 and as a buy-side analyst at a global hedge fund from 2004 to 2007. Cohen rejoined Goldman Sachs as a member of the Principal Strategic Investments business. In that role, he led the firms strategic investments in the financial technology sector.

Cohen graduated from Emory summa cum laude with degrees in political science and philosophy.

Dease was elected bishop by the 2022 Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference and consecrated in November 2022. Her first assignment as bishop was to the North Georgia Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church in January 2023.

Dease holds a bachelors degree from Claflin University in Orangeburg and earned a master of divinity degree and a doctor of ministry degree in stewardship from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C.

Before her election to the episcopacy, she served as pastor and district superintendent in the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church and has been involved in numerous denominational and conference boards and committees.
HKUST hopes to attract more Belt and Road students

HKUST's Director of Undergraduate Recruitment and Admissions Emily Nason (centre) says the university hopes to attract more students from places such as Vietnam and Malaysia. Photo: RTHK

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) on Thursday said it hopes to attract more undergraduates from Belt and Road countries now the government is allowing institutions to bring in four non-local students for every 10 locals they have, up from two previously.



Emily Nason, director of undergraduate recruitment and admissions, said the university aims to recruit an extra 100 students from outside the SAR in the next academic year, on top of the usual figure of around 500.



"We will not double the non-local intake in just one year. We will do it step-by-step to make sure we have enough resources to take care of both the new students and also all our current students," Nason said.



"In terms of housing, we already have four blocks of new undergraduate housing that are in the final stage of construction that will be ready to open in the coming academic year in September."



The four new blocks will provide an extra 1,500 beds, Nason added.



HKUST said around 50 percent of its non-local students come from the mainland, but it intends to increase recruitment efforts in countries under the Belt and Road Initiative, such as Vietnam, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates and Turkey.



In Wednesday's Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee said that various scholarship schemes will be expanded to get talented graduates to stay in the city for further studies or to conduct research.



George Tan, an HKUST undergraduate from Malaysia who receives a scholarship, said the university itself could be a good enough reason for him to stay on in Hong Kong.



Other than the scholarship itself, its the environment and quality of education that HKUST provides that makes us reconsider whether to continue for a postgraduate programme, Tan said.



Another student with a scholarship, Park Jungjin from South Korea, said the citys openness to researchers is what attracted him to stay.



Ive been here for over nine years. I dont think there are many places in the world where you can find students doing a PhD and also pursuing entrepreneurship in a completely different field, Park said.
PRNewswire Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], October 26: Rainbow Children's Hospital, a renowned leader in Indian pediatric healthcare services, is set to host the prestigious ISPGHAN (Indian Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition) conference in partnership with CAPGAN (Commonwealth Association of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition) and ISPGHAN (Indian Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition). This annual conference is scheduled to take place from 26th to 29th of October, 2023, at the Park Hyatt Hotel in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. Rainbow Children's Hospital has established a comprehensive ecosystem of pediatric healthcare, featuring exceptional super specialty services and infrastructure in niche fields such as pediatric cardiology, neurosurgery, pulmonology, nephrology, urology, and gastroenterology to name a few. The company's leadership in pediatric gastroenterology, driven by cutting-edge research and a steadfast commitment to high-quality medical care for children, is the reason it has been chosen to host the event. This year's ISPGHAN conference promises to be an educational and enriching experience for all attendees, bringing together experts and enthusiasts in the fields of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. The event will serve as a platform for the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and the latest research findings in these crucial medical disciplines. Key highlights of the conference include discussions on functional GI disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, NAFLD, hepatitis, portal hypertension, cholestatic disorders in children, and liver failure among others. The conference will also feature workshops on advanced endoscopy procedures, GI manometry, EUS (endoscopic ultrasound) and GI radiology. This year's event is particularly special as it marks the 10th Annual Conference of ISPGHAN - The Indian Society of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. It also serves as the 18th Biennial Commonwealth Association of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Conference. The conference is being organized under the capable leadership of Dr Ramesh Kancharla as the Organizing Chairperson, Dr Prashant Bachina as the Organizing Secretary, and Dr Adarsh Kancharla as the Joint Organizing Secretary. Additionally, the esteemed Dr Neelam Mohan, President of CAPGAN and ISPGHAN, is playing a pivotal role in the success of this collaborative effort. Speaking on this event, Dr Ramesh Kancharla, Chairman & Managing Director, Rainbow Children's Medicare Limited (RCML) said, "In the last 5 years, the field of pediatric gastroenterology has progressed remarkably well in India. We can confidently say that we have caught up to the global frontrunners in pediatric gastroenterology in all crucial dimensions. With a rich program of discussions, lectures, and interactive sessions, ISPGHANCON 2023 promises to be a landmark event in the fields of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. We are honoured to host this prestigious event." "With ISPGHANCON 2023, we are providing an opportunity for all doctors in pediatric fields to update themselves with new research findings and crucial feedback on current methods in the fields of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. Ultimately, this event will lead to enhanced patient care in these fields." added Dr Prashant Bachina,Senior ConsultantPediatric Gastroenterologist at Rainbow Children's Hospital. Dr Adarsh Kancharla, Clinical Fellow, Dept. of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, added, "This year's edition of ISPGHANCON features 17 International Faculty, over 145 speakers and 250 delegates from all over the world. Not only does this bring global perspectives and insights on pediatric gastroenterology to Indian practitioners, it is a great opportunity for India's healthcare ecosystem to become a valuable node and contribute to the global healthcare network." About Rainbow Children's Hospital: Rainbow Children's Hospital is a leading chain of children's hospital that provides quaternary care services, including pediatric organ transplants - liver, kidney transplants and BMT. With a commitment to excellence and innovation in pediatric medicine, Rainbow Children's Hospital has become a trusted name in child healthcare. About CAPGAN, and ISPGHAN: CAPGAN and ISPGHAN are prominent international organizations dedicated to promoting the field of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. They aim to advance knowledge, research, and clinical practices to improve the health and well-being of children globally. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2257554/RCH.jpgLogo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2257552/RCH_Logo.jpg (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PRNewswire. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
India PR Distribution Gurgaon (Haryana) [India], October 26: WHA Partners proudly announces the launch of a global consulting practice with the opening of an office in Gurgaon, India. The firm's principals will have a strong focus on Healthcare & Retail and by establishing a significant presence in India, the firm will be able to tap into the vast growth and potential of the world's most populous nation. In addition to India, WHA is also looking at market expansion to SEA and MENA regions. With a collective experience of over 200 years, the consultancy's passionate Founding Team will identify and harness key opportunities and challenges for businesses. Not just another consultancy, WHA Partners differentiates itself by employing an innovative approach in their development plans, ensuring modern-day marketplace integration for their clientele. Their central ethos revolves around designing effective strategies and equipping teams with essential tools to chart the path to success. As they start this journey, WHA Partners reiterates their commitment to providing a holistic consultation service while also exploring investment and entrepreneurial opportunities. The emphasis is on enabling organizations to identify gaps, discern challenges, and discover opportunities. Their vision: transforming organizations into efficient, forward-thinking business entities. Their services include comprehensive advisory services that identify and find a solution for inefficiencies in current practices. It should also be noted that WHA has a very strong skill set in the area of assessments for investments and in today's &A environment, this is absolutely key. This rigorous process is underscored by their aim to reduce redundancies and steer organizations onto a firm path of sustained success. India's rapid growth trajectory in consumer facing service sectors and its potential as a hub for innovation presents an ideal setting for WHA Partners. Their intent is not only to offer their signature services but also to learn, adapt, and grow in tandem with the Indian business ecosystem. WHA Partners is led by a very talented team of Founding Partners led by Bhavdeep Singh, Dr Rajen Ghadiok, Madhavan Ganesan, Gurjit Singh Ajay Vij and CK Nageswaran. Together, they will partner with a talented and agile team of strategic Advisors and Operating Partners. The expansion underlines the company's commitment to not only harness the business opportunities India presents but also contribute to its socio-economic development. WHA Partners is an independent business management consultancy renowned for its innovative solutions in the Healthcare, Retail, Human Resources and Leadership Development. With over 200 years of combined business experience, they offer a unique blend of traditional wisdom and modern methodologies to empower businesses and propel them to success. To learn more, visit: https://wha-partners.com/ (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by India PR Distribution. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
PRNewswire Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], October 26: ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), the leading digital workflow company making the world work better for everyone, and ANSR, a market expert in building, managing, and scaling teams through Global Capability Centers (GCCs), today announced a strategic partnership to power GCCs on the Now Platform. The ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures program joins existing ANSR (an Accel Portfolio company) investors to accelerate growth in key global markets. The partnership will help increase talent capacity for ANSR clients by establishing ServiceNow Centers of Excellence in more than 60 GCCs to train 3,500 individuals across India. The collaboration will also allow ANSR to power its own internal GCC service delivery on ServiceNow, including Now Assist generative AI capabilities. The investment is part of the ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures program, launched in May 2023 to accelerate partner growth in key global markets through increasing skilled talent and driving greater customer adoption of ServiceNow. ServiceNow's investment enables partners to expand their go-to-market capabilities and enhance their proficiency in ServiceNow's technology and solutions to deliver fast time to value. According to non-profit Nasscom, as well as the India Brand Equity Foundation, India is home to 45% of the world's GCCs and it is estimated that more than 4.5 million people will work in a local GCC by 2030. To prepare the workforce for this opportunity, and to meet the increasing demand for professionals trained on ServiceNow, ANSR's new ServiceNow Centers of Excellence will equip a world-class pool of individuals across India with the future-ready technology and interpersonal skills needed to support ANSR corporate clients, which include some of the world's largest Fortune 500 brands. "ServiceNow is committed to strengthening our talent and investment in India, one of our fastest-growing markets globally," said David Parsons, senior vice president of Ecosystem Ventures at ServiceNow. "As a market leader in India, ANSR provides a distinctive opportunity to seamlessly integrate ServiceNow into their GCCs to enable end-to-end automation for some of the most prominent Fortune 500 enterprises around the world." "GCCs are increasingly becoming hubs for innovation, excellence, and digital capabilities," said Lalit Ahuja, founder and CEO at ANSR."ANSR, in partnership with ServiceNow, we will apply the GenAI-enabled Now Platform across GCCs at a significant scale, fostering their growth and positioning them as key strategic partners for enterprises. In addition, ANSR is re-platforming its GCC service delivery portfolio to the ServiceNow Platform in our efforts to rapidly innovate and scale our business." By re-platforming its own GCC service delivery on ServiceNow, ANSR plans to deliver an integrated approach to 40,000 GCC employees who need faster, more seamless access to services across HR, finance, IT and the workplace. Re-platforming to ServiceNow includes integrating Now Assist, ServiceNow's generative AI experience, to help reduce time spent on operational activities, increase productivity, and improve overall employee satisfaction. Recent additional ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures investments include Blueship Co.,Ltd and Japan System Co., Ltd, both leaders in the local Japanese public sector IT industry. To learn more about ServiceNow's Ecosystem Ventures program, visit here. www.servicenow.com. About ServiceNow ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW) is making the world of work, work better for people. Our cloud-based platform and solutions deliver digital workflows that create great experiences and unlock productivity for employees and the enterprise. For more information, visit: www.servicenow.com. (c) 2023 ServiceNow, Inc. All rights reserved. ServiceNow, the ServiceNow logo, Now, and other ServiceNow marks are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other company names, product names, and logos may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. About ANSR ANSR, an Accel Ventures portfolio company is the market leader in enabling organizations build, manage and scale global teams through Global Capability Centers (GCCs). ANSR's suite of end-to-end AI-enabled products and services are trusted by the world's best companies to help them setup, manage and run their high-impact technology centers. Since its inception, ANSR has established over 110 GCCs aggregating to over 120k enterprise talent with over USD 2B in investment and using over 12M sq ft of workspace. Visit ansr.com for more information. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258288/ServiceNow_partnership_with_ANSR.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)
In a significant turn of events, the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has dismissed the petition lodged by the State Bank of India (SBI) against Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar. This decision follows a thorough analysis of the submissions presented by SBI, which ultimately led to the withdrawal of the petition. Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar had incurred a debt of approximately Rs 4,771 crore and had previously availed itself of two debt-restructuring schemes. The dismissal of the petition marks a pivotal moment for the company, which faced a challenging period where its reputation and financial standing were on the line. Neeraj Jha, the Group President and Chief Communications Officer of the Bajaj Group expressed immense relief and gratitude over the outcome. He commented, "It's a great feeling. As you know, it was a difficult period for the company when so much was at stake, none more than our reputation. We're relieved as well as grateful." Acknowledging the significance of maintaining trust, transparency, and fair play, Jha emphasized the importance of the longstanding relationship between Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar and its stakeholders, particularly the lenders. The company's commitment to its stakeholders, which spans nearly a century, has been unwavering. He further said, "We take the opportunity to thank the lenders and each stakeholder for believing in us and how we conduct our business. We are mindful of our legacy of trust, transparency and fair play. We truly value our relationships with our stakeholders, especially lenders. We have a track record of honouring our commitment to them for close to 100 years now. "This development will allow us to focus fully on this business which we are convinced has an exciting future. We hope this will be a win-win for all our stakeholders which includes our lenders, governments & their agencies, our employees, shareholders & investors, and, most importantly, lakhs of sugarcane farmers who we see as an extended part of our family and who've stood by us through thick and thin", added Jha. The NCLT's decision is seen as a crucial milestone for Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar, enabling the company to continue its operations and pursue its promising future, supported by a network of stakeholders who have demonstrated their unwavering faith in the company's values and conduct. (ANI)
Almost five years after they got married, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh finally shared their wedding video on the first episode of 'Koffee With Karan 8'. The actor couple appeared on the 'Koffee' sofa of the show hosted by ace filmmaker Karan Johar and revealing details about their marriage, the proposal, and more. The B-Town couple also treated 'Deepveer' fans with a glimpse of their wedding. The wedding video was captured by The Wedding Filmers, the same team who shot the wedding sequence in Deepika Padukone's 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani'. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy1W8ZBLF5V/ Taking to Instagram, The Wedding Filmers shared the video and wrote, "During the filming of "Kabira" for "Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani", I had the honor of directing her. On a crisp evening, amidst rounds of Pictionary by the poolside with the crew, she leaned in and said softly, "When the time comes for my wedding, I'd be honored if you would be the one to capture it." I was taken aback, a blush creeping up unnoticed. She held onto that sentiment, gently reminding me of that whispered promise during her wedding film's screening years later." "Set against the stunning backdrop of Como, The Wedding Filmer had the distinct honor of encapsulating the magical union between Bollywood's icons, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. It wasn't just about documenting their wedding day, but rather weaving a tale of love, trust, and commitment. Some stories are so close to the heart that they're held close, and perhaps they wanted this narrative to be theirs alone for a time. As we mark our 13th year in building an industry, releasing this film stands as a testament to our journey and growth. Premiering on the esteemed platform of 'Koffee with Karan', it's not merely a film, but a milestone in our storied legacy.@ranveersingh @deepikapadukone," the post read. The video started with Ranveer giving a toast at his wedding and revealed that he had once said that he would marry Deepika Padukone and the day had finally come. From cute moments of 'Deepveer's' weeding, the video also featured bytes from their families talking about Ranveer and Deepika. Deepika's father and badminton legend Prakash Padukone Prakash Padukone said in the video that Ranveer brings some excitement to their 'boring' family of four. Ranveer dance at the mehendi ceremony by the lake, Deepika getting ready, the pair exchanging vows at the mandap and their Anand Karaj ceremony- all have been captured in the video. Not only that, Ranveer is shown waiting outside Deepika's room to see his wife to be before they got married and said "Love you baby". Deepika also describes why she said yes to Ranveer. She is heard saying in the clip, "I was attracted to the person that most of the world has not seen. There is a quiet side to him, very intelligent side. There is a sensitive side to him. I love the fact that he cries. I love the fact that he was all heart. " After watching the video, Karan turned emotional. https://twitter.com/shortiekiddo28/status/1717274372069532084? He said, "I just feel like. I am not in a relationship and I am kind of single. It just makes me feel what I am losing out on being in one. Not being in, you feel like, you don't have a partner of your own to share the nothing of your day with. And every day I wake up and a little part of me feels that vacuum. I have my kids and mom but when I see this and I see you. And I know relationships are tough but that soul connection with a person that you can wake up with hold their hand and see your day through tough times. I don't think I have had a moment like this on my own show but I feel like I felt so happy for you and I felt like so alone yet. I hope I have a story to tell like this." Deepika assured him that he would find someone at the right time. Karan Johar also inquired if the two were secretly engaged. To which Ranveer shared, "In 2015, I had proposed to her, iske pehle ki koi aur aa jaye main jaake chappal rakh deta hu." When asked if she would date Rocky Randhawa, Deepika Padukone replied, "I am married to Rocky Randhawa." The much-loved couple ceremoniously tied the knot in November 14, 2018 in Italy's Lake Como. The two got married in a traditional South Indian ceremony followed by a North Indian wedding a day after. The couple has starred together in a number of films including Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Goliyon ki Rasleela Ram-Leela', 'Bajirao Mastani', 'Padmaavat', and others. Talking about Karan's show, new episodes will be released every Thursday on Disney+ Hotstar. (ANI)
Actors Sonu Sood and Jacqueline Fernandez have finally completed shooting for the action thriller 'Fateh'. Taking to Instagram, Sonu shared behind-the-scenes pictures to mark this day. https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy2YDp5rZbb/?img_index=1 Sharing the photos, he wrote, "Fateh is just the beginning of a magical journey, and as I wrap up the shoot , i promise this will be your most memorable one . Jackie I truly appreciate your humility, hard work and dedication.. thanks for being yourself. As I promised this is going to be your best one @jacquelienefernandez." 'Fateh' is based on real-life instances of cybercrime experienced by people during the Covid-pandemic. Helmed by Vaibhav Mishra and the film stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Shivjyoti Rajput and Vijay Raaz in prominent roles. Some of the prominent names in Hollywood including the director of photography, research team, and action choreographers have been roped in for this film. Sood, whose philanthropic acts during the pandemic touched the lives of migrants, revealed that there was also a flipside to his humanitarian efforts - instances of scamsters using his name to con people. "The idea for 'Fateh' came into my mind when I was helping people and came to know that many people were being fooled and cheated in my name. They were given false loans, promises to meet me or to get any sort of help from my team during a pandemic," Sood said in an interview with ANI. The actor said he became concerned when he realised that a large number of people were being hoodwinked with conmen using his name to cheat them. The actor said he was informed of instances where people, especially those in remote areas were duped mostly through phishing tools. "It was then I realized that this cybercrime is a big issue in our country. It is very important to take action on it. Thus the journey of 'Fateh', the film I am doing started from this experience," said the actor. The 'Dabangg' actor said he began writing about how the public was being tricked and how they could take steps to ensure they do not succumb to such fraudsters. "The film is based on the real experiences of these people. Ninety per cent of shooting has been completed, more 8-10 days are left to wrap it," the 'Simba' actor said. The official release date of 'Fateh' is still awaited. (ANI)
Claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat have divergent stands on border security, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday accused the two leaders of misleading the country. Asked to comment on a statement by the RSS chief, pertaining to the prevailing situation in Manipur, the Chhattisgarh CM said, "Our Vishwa Guru (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) claims that the borders of India are safe, while on the other side, Mohan Bhagwat states that external forces were behind the Manipur violence. They should decide who is right as they are making contradictory claims," Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said in Raipur on Wednesday. He added that if one were to go by PM Modi's claim on border safety, then "how was it that external forces crossed over to incite trouble and violence in Manipur?" "If Mohan Bhagwat said this, one would assume that he wasn't wrong. But that would mean that the Vishwa Guru is lying. They shouldn't mislead the country," the Chhattisgarh CM said. Further, accusing the saffron party of seeking votes and money in the name of Lord Ram, CM Baghel said the previous BJP government made no effort to preserve or beautify the temple of Kaushalya Mata. "These people (BJP) seek votes as well as notes in the name of Lord Ram," the CM alleged, adding that Lord Ram is at the core of the religious beliefs of the majority in the state and elsewhere in the country and the BJP should refrain from seeking votes in his name. Taking a dig at the BJP over its claims with regard to the opening of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, the Chattisgarh CM added, "The temple is being raised on the order of the Supreme Court. What role did the BJP have in this?" On the proposed liquor ban in the state, the CM said he wants to urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ban the consumption and purchase of alcohol across the country, as that way a prohibition will automatically come into effect in Chhattisgarh. The first phase of polling for 20 seats in Chhattisgarh will be held on November 7. The BJP, which is bidding to unseat the Congress from power, has declared candidates for all 90 constituencies of the state. The party's first list of 21 candidates included Lok Sabha MP Vijay Baghel, who has been fielded against the chief minister, who also happens to be his distant relative, from the Patan assembky segment in Durg district. The second BJP list had 64 candidates and the third was for a single seat. The Congress has also declared the names of all its 90 candidates. After the first phase of polling on November 7, the remaining 70 seats in the state will poll on November 17. The counting of votes, along with those of four other poll-bound states, has been scheduled for December 3. Last week, the BJP released its list of 40 star campaigners for the first phase of the state polls. (ANI)
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced to give assistance of Rs 10 Lakh to the family of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman who lost his life in the line of duty on October 21. "Agniveer Akshay Gawate of Buldhana district of Maharashtra died while on duty in Siachen. Expressing grief over Akshay's death, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that the state government has announced an assistance of Rs 10 lakh to his family," the CM office said. Jawan Akshay Gawate was a resident of Pimpalgaon Sarai in Buldhana district. The Chief Minister expressed condolences to Akshay's family on his demise. Gawate Akshay Laxman, an operator, lost his life amid the treacherous terrains of the Siachen glacier on Sunday. He is the first Agniveer to have laid down his life in operations. The last rites of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman were performed after his mortal remains were brought to his residence in Pimpalgaon Sarai village of Buldhana district on Monday. Expressing support for the bereaved family of Agniveer Gawate Akshay Laxman, the Indian Army on Sunday sought to clear the air on compensation to the next of kin, saying that the same is "governed by the relevant terms and conditions of service of the soldier". Agniveer Laxman's father, Laxman Gawate told ANI, "After getting a B.Com degree, he wanted to join the Army. I last spoke to him on October 20. He had asked me if I was keeping well and if his brother and other family members were doing fine." The Indian Army also paid tribute to Agniveer Gawate Akshay Laxman. The Indian Army's Fire and Fury Corps offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved family. "Quartered in snow silent to remain, when the bugle calls, they shall rise and march again. All ranks of Fire and Fury Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman, in the line of duty, in the unforgiving heights of Siachen, and offer deepest condolences to the family," the Fire and Fury Corps posted on X. (ANI)
The Mumbai Police detained three people for vandalising the car of Anti-reservation advocate Gunaratna Sadarvarte outside his residence in Mumbai on Thursday, officials said. Advocate Gunratna Sadavarte had opposed the case in connection to the Maratha Reservation in the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court. "Three people were detained in the case of vandalism of the vehicles of advocate Gunaratna Sadavarte in Mumbai by Bhoiwada police. Formalities for registering the offence are going on," Mumbai Police said. Advocate Sadavarte however said that nothing will deter him for fighting for the rights of students in the open category. "As long as there is blood in my veins, I will fight for the rights of students of the open category. I will not let the country disintegrate over caste. We say 'Jai Sri Ram', we say 'Vande Mataram'...My vehicles were vandalised today. I might be killed. But I won't step back. I won't be scared" Sadavarte told reporters in Mumbai today. Meanwhile, on Wednesday Maratha reservation activist Manoj Jarange Patil once again started a hunger strike in Jalna, after the purported deadline of 40 days given to the given to the state government to announce the reservation expired. Jarange Patil said that this time the community would intensify its protest and hold chain hunger strikes and candle marches till their demand is fulfilled. Earlier on October 19, a man from Jalna district who came to Mumbai for the cause of the Maratha reservation allegedly died by suicide. He allegedly hanged himself with a rope under the Western Express Highway in the Bandra area of Mumbai. The incident is said to have happened on Wednesday night, police said. The deceased is identified as Sunil Baburao Kawle, a resident of Chikangaon village in Ambad taluka of Jalna district, police said. In the suicide note, the deceased wrote, "People of the Maratha community should gather in Mumbai on October 24 for the movement for the Maratha reservation." At the end of the suicide note, he also apologised, police said. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed condolences over the deaths of two people from the Maratha community on Sunday and appealed to the activists not to commit suicide. "Today I want to appeal that two people from the Maratha community committed suicide. I'm also from the Maratha community and the son of a farmer. I express condolences to those who have committed suicide. Please think about your families before taking such steps," CM Shinde said. "It is the government's responsibility to give reservations to the Maratha community, and we are working towards it. With the Supreme Court admitting the state government's curative petition on the Maratha reservation, a big window for reservation has opened for the Maratha community," he added Meanwhile, Congress leader Ashok Chavan also expressed condolences and said that it's a pity that such a thing has happened. "A person from Hadgaon tehsil of Nanded has committed suicide after not getting a reservation for the Maratha community. It's a pity that such a thing has happened. I hope the government will give its judgement soon on the Maratha reservation," Ashok Chavan said. The Maratha community has been protesting for the community's inclusion on the OBC list in the state. (ANI)
Facing 'heat' from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party over the 'petrol bomb incident' outside the Governor's residence in Tamil Nadu, the DMK party's IT wing on Thursday posted a meme on social media which reportedly accuses the Raj Bhavan of exaggerating the issue. In a reply to a vernacular news channel, reporting the incident, the IT wing of DMK posted the meme on the social media platform, X. https://twitter.com/DMKITwing/status/1717370948926820564 Earlier on Wednesday, around 3 pm, an unidentified person tried to throw some bottles of petrol outside Raj Bhavan near barricades. As soon as this was noticed by the security personnel present there, they surrounded him, confiscated other bottles from his hand and immediately handed him over to the patrol vehicle and took him to the police station. Prem Anand Sinha, Additional Commissioner of Police said, the person has been identified as history-sheeter K Vinod who is a habitual offender with six-seven cases against him. Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai on Wednesday alleged that the petrol bomb incident outside Raj Bhawan shows that DMK government is "sponsoring" these attacks, adding that Chief Minister MK Stalin is adopting "diversification tactics." In a post on X, Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai said, "Petrol bombs were hurled at Raj Bhavan today, reflects the true law and order situation in Tamil Nadu. While DMK is busy diverting the attention of people to insignificant matters of interest, criminals have taken the streets." He further stated that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin would remain silent on the incident and employ diversion tactics. "Incidentally, it is the same person who attacked BJP Tamil Nadu Headquarters in Chennai in Feb 2022 who is held responsible for the attack on Raj Bhavan today. These continuous attack only leaves one to think that the DMK government is sponsoring these attacks. Thiru MK Stalin will now be preparing for the next diversion, as he always does," he said. (ANI)
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said that the Enforcement Directorate had summoned his son Vaibhav Gehlot. "Date 25/10/23 Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23 ED raid on Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Ji Dotasara, Summons to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear in ED. Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED's Red Rose is happening inside Rajasthan because BJP does not want that women, farmers and poor in Rajasthan should get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress", Gehlot posted on social media app X. The ED also conducted raids on Rajasthan Congress Chief Govind Singh Dotasara and MLA Om Prakash Hudla in connection with the Senior Teacher 2nd Grade Competitive Examination, 2022 Paper Leak case. The raids were carried out at the official residence of Dotasara at Civil Lines in Rajasthan's Jaipur. The central probe agency has also summoned Ashok Gehlot's son and Congress leader, Vaibhav Gehlot in connection with the paper leak case. The raids that come even as the state is gearing up to go to the polls on November 25, has taken a political tone with Chief Minister Gehlot calling an urgent news conference to address the issue later today. The Enforcement Directorate today also conducted search operations at nearly a dozen locations in Rajasthan in connection with the paper leak case. Earlier this month, the ED conducted search operations at residential premises of Dinesh Khodania, Ashok Kumar Jain, Spurdha Chaudhary, Suresh Dhaka and other individuals in the paper leaks case. The searches were carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), officials said adding that various incriminating documents, copies of sale deeds of various properties, electronic devices and cash amounting to Rs 24 lakh were seized in the operation. "ED has carried out search operations under PMLA, 2002 on 13.10.2023 at 07 residential premises of Dinesh Khodania, Ashok Kumar Jain, Spurdha Chaudhary, Suresh Dhaka and others in Senior Teacher 2nd Grade Competitive Examination, 2022 Paper Leak case. During the search operations, various incriminating documents, copies of sale deeds of various properties, electronic devices and INR 24 Lakh were recovered and seized," the ED said in a post on 'X'. The ED in September arrested Babulal Katara, a member of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission and Anil Kumar Meena in the alleged paper leak case in Rajasthan under the provisions of PMLA. Katara and Meena were produced before a special PMLA court in Jaipur, which granted ED custody for a period of three days. ED claimed that the investigation revealed that Katara leaked the general knowledge question paper of the Senior Teacher Grade II Competitive Examination, 2022 which was to be conducted on December 21, December 22 and December 24, 2022, at various places in Rajasthan. ED alleged that Katara sold the leaked question papers to Anil Kumar Meena. Further, Meena supplied the said leaked papers to Bhupendra Saran, Suresh Dhaka, and other members of a syndicate, which was further provided to candidates for the consideration amount of Rs 8 to Rs 10 lakh per candidate. In early June this year, ED conducted searches at 15 premises of accused persons, resulting in the recovery of incriminating documents and digital records. The enforcement agency has also provisionally attached properties, both movable and immovable properties, worth approximately Rs 3.11 crore of Babulal Katara, Anil Meena and "others". (ANI)
The House of Commons (UK Parliament) celebrated Jammu and Kashmir Day on the eve of the 76th anniversary of the Accession of the then princely state to India on October 26, 1947. The program was organised by the Jammu Kashmir diaspora based in the UK and hosted by Rt Hon Bob Blackman, MP Harrow East. Other parliamentarians attending the event included Rt Hon Jonathan Lord, MP Woking, Rt Hon Theresa Villiers, and MP Chipping Barnet. The special guests for the evening included Ajatshatru Singh and Ritu Singh from the erstwhile royal family of Jammu & Kashmir. Other keynote speakers included Gautam Sen, Sushil Pandit and Mr Sajjad Raja, NEP Party representing POJK. The proceedings were inaugurated by MP Jonathan Lord who welcomed the royals from Jammu and Kashmir and other guests and audience. Gautam Sen spoke about the plight of Kashmiri Pandits and the lack of political will to support their rehabilitation and he attributed this to the vote bank politics highlighting that the Pandit community being small in number does not have a political voice. Sajjad Raja spoke about the atrocities on Hindus and Sikhs during the partition and he strongly argued that Pakistan was not a party to the Jammu & Kashmir issue because they were the aggressors who invaded and forcibly occupied POJK in 1947. Ajatshatru Singh spoke about the Dogra dynasty and their contribution to the establishment and expansion of the princely state of Jammu & Kashmir. He also highlighted, then Maharaja, Hari Singh's role in signing the instrument of Accession with India. MP Theresa Villiers spoke about the importance of Jammu Kashmir Day and also highlighted the significant progress made by the region since the revocation of Article 370. Sushil Pandit spoke about the lack of justice being done to the Kashmiri Pandit community and he also highlighted the apathy of the establishment in fulfilling the aspirations of the community. MP Bob Blackman brought with him a signed copy of the Instrument of Accession and highlighted the contribution of the diaspora community in celebrating the day year after year in the House of Commons. MP Bob Blackman also urged Pakistan to stop state-sponsored terrorism in the region so there is lasting peace and progress in the region. Ritu Singh spoke about the erstwhile Royal Family's contribution to the state and she also talked about a number of social and cultural initiatives in the region specifically aimed at woman empowerment, skills development and preservation of craft and culture. The event was well represented by political and community activists based in the UK, the wider British Indian and POJK diaspora and a number of parliamentary staff. A number of community volunteers worked together to shape the event including Sonal Sher (moderating the proceedings), Shafalica Bhan Kotwal, Anupama Handoo, Vinod Tikoo, Anupam Fotedar, Lalit Sharma, Pankaj Raina and others. (ANI)
The Ethics Committee of Lok Sabha is set to hold its first meeting on Thursday to address the "Cash for Query" accusation lodged against TMC MP Mahua Moitra. BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai will appear before the Committee for oral evidence in regard to the complaint filed by Dubey against TMC MP Mahua Moitra alleging that she has "a direct involvement in the 'cash for query' scam in Parliament. The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is headed by the BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar and includes Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; Ve Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Preneet Kaur of the Congress ; Balashowry Vallabbhaneni (YSRCP); Hemant Godse (Shiv Sena); Giridhari Yadav (JD-U); P R Natarajan (CPI-M); and Kunwar Danish Ali (BSP). "Oral Evidence of Jai Anant Dehadrai, Advocate, in respect of a complaint dated October 15, 2023, given by Nishikant Dubey, MP against Mahua Moitra, MP for alleged direct involvement in cash for query in Parliament. Oral evidence of Nishikant Dubey, MP, in respect of complaint dated October 15, 2023 given by him against Mahua Moitra, MP for alleged direct involvement in cash for query in Parliament," the panel's schedule for Thursday said. The BJP MP earlier wrote to the Lok Sabha speaker, alleging the involvement of Mahua Moitra in the 'Cash for Query' scandal. He further claimed that he had proof of the charges as given to him by Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai. Dubey, in his letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker, titled "Re-emergence of nasty 'Cash for Query' in Parliament," had alleged "'serious Breach of Privilege', 'Contempt of the House' and a 'Criminal Offence' under Section 120A of IPC" by the Trinamool Congress MP. Dubey claimed that an Advocate, Jai Anant Dehadrai, had provided him with proof of a bribe. In response to this letter, the Trinamool Congress MP said that she would welcome a probe by the speaker after he dealt with alleged breaches of privilege by other BJP MPs. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Dubey once again targeted Mahua Moitra. In a reply to the Trinamool Congress MP's remarks against him, Dubey said that the question is not about Adani, Degree or theft, but about corruption by misleading the country. "The question is about the dignity of Parliament, the security of India and the propriety, corruption and criminality of the alleged MP. The answer has to be given whether NIC mail is open in Dubai or not. Ask questions in exchange for money or not. Who bore the expenses of travelling abroad? Did you get permission from @loksabhaspeaker and @MEAIndia to go abroad or not? The question is not about Adani, degree or theft, but about your corruption by misleading the country," Nishikant Dubey posted on X. "Degree wali desh beche, chand paise ke le jamir beche (Those with degrees sell the country and sell their conscience for money)," he alleged. The charge by Nishikant Dubey follows Mahua Moitra's dig at him after Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured Dubey that his complaint on misuse of Parliament login credentials would be looked into. In a post on X on Tuesday, Mahua said, "Who is lying? 2 days ago Fake Degree Wala said NIC already given details including "Dubai" logins to probe agency. Now Ashwini Vaishnaw says NIC will give info in future IF asked by LS or Ethics Comm. BJP is welcome to do a hit job on me but Adani+Godda perhaps not the best strategists!" Earlier on Tuesday, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw wrote a letter to BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and said that the issues raised by the Lok Sabha MP in the alleged 'Cash for query' scandal are of grave importance. (ANI)
The Supreme Court in a recently pronounced decision has remarked that omission to frame charge does not disable the court from convicting the accused for the offence which is found to have been proved on the evidence on record. A bench of justices S Ravindra Bhat and Aravind Kumar's remark came on October 19 when it convicted the parents-in-law of a woman under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The top court convicted the parents-in-law of the woman under Section 306 IPC despite the charges not being framed against them under those penal provisions. The top court was hearing an appeal challenging the Karnataka High Court's Dharwad Bench order dated July 20 2022 which affirmed the Sessions Judge, Bagalkot decision dated September 14 2019. The trial court had convicted them under Section 498A, 304B read with Section 34 of IPC and Sections 3 and 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act. The complainant in the case has alleged that his daughter's husband and parents-in-law had tortured the victim leading to the death of the woman who died by suicide by self-immolating herself. The top court noted that the act of torture had forced the deceased to commit suicide. "Omission to frame charge does not disable the court from convicting the accused for the offence which is found to have been proved on the evidence on record. The code has ample provisions to meet a situation like the one before us," the top court said. "From the statement of charge framed under Section 304B and in the alternative Section 306, it is clear that all the facts and ingredients for framing the charge for an offence under Section 306 existed," the top court said. "The mere omission on the part of the trial judge to mention Section 306 IPC with 498A would not preclude this Court from convicting the accused for the said offence when found proved. In the charge framed under Section 304B of IPC, it has been clearly mentioned that the accused has subjected the deceased to such cruelty and harassment as to drive her to commit suicide by self-immolation and as such non-framing of the specific charge would not be fatal in the instant case as no injustice is being caused to the accused," the top court said. The court noted the evidence on record and said, "It can be safely noted that the High Court ought to have examined as to whether the accused could have been convicted for an offence for which no charge was framed and not undertaking of such an exercise would result in failure of justice?" The top court said, "Thus, it will have to be seen from the facts unfolded in the present case as to whether the accused was aware of the basic ingredients of the offence for which they are being tried and whether the main facts sought to be established against them were explained to them clearly and whether they got a fair chance to defend themselves. If the answer is in the affirmative, then necessarily this court will have to proceed further and examine as to whether the accused can be convicted for the offence not charged and if the answer is in the negative it would result in acquittal of the accused for said offence." "In the instant case, the dying declaration of the deceased would clearly indicate that the deceased was mentally traumatized and she was unable to tolerate the torture and harassment meted out by the accused person on account of which she committed suicide. It is this taunting or mental torture which she could not withstand and forced her to commit suicide by self-immolation." "In that view of the matter, we are of the considered opinion that accused persons are liable to be convicted for the offence punishable under Section 306 IPC though the charge was not framed," the top court said. However, the top court modified the sessions court order and acquitted the appellants for the offences punishable under Section 304B IPC and Sections 3 and 4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act. "The accused (appellant Nos.1 and 2) are now aged about 66 and 61 years respectively. They have already spent one year, one month and 27 days in prison. They do not have any past history of criminal record. Hence, a lenient view has to be taken while imposing the sentence," the top court said and convicted them for the offence punishable under Section 306 and Section 498A read with Section 34 IPC and sentenced them to imprisonment for the period already undergone. (ANI)
The annual meeting of Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal (Central Executive Council) of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) will be held at Bhuj, Gujarat this year. This meeting will be organised from November 5 to 7 this year, said an RSS official. In this meeting, as per the Sangh, workers of all 45 provinces, Sanghachalaks, Karyavahs and Prant Pracharaks and their Sah Sanghachalaks, Sah-Karyavahs and Sah-Prant Pracharaks will participate in the meeting, said the official. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale and all the members of the executive council will also be especially present in the meeting. Besides this, organising secretaries of select organisations will also participate in the meeting. Along with reviewing the organizational work of the Sangh, various topics will be discussed as a follow up on the issues raised in the All-Bharat Coordination Meeting held in Pune in September and the notable issues of the address of the respected Sarsanghchalak in recent Vijayadashami festival. The meeting will also deliberate on the proposed temple inauguration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024 and the related programmes to be organised across the country. (ANI)
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday, held a high-level meeting with Kannada Rajyotsava Award Selection Committee. During the meeting, the Siddaramaiah suggested that the Rajyotsava Award should be given to the most deserving and that regional justice must be followed in the selection of the awardees. All castes, religions and genders should get representation while selecting the awardees, he suggested. The members of the selection committee opined that 10 awards should be given to organisations that have worked in favour of Kannada in the background of 50 years of renaming the state as Karnataka. 68 Rajyotsava awards are to be conferred this year and it was decided in the meeting to give away 10 awards to organisations who worked in the favour of Karnataka. As per the release, the Chief Minister said that since the number of applicants was very high for Rajyotsava awards, the government had previously decided to give as many awards as the number of years of Karnataka Ekikarana. The Karnataka Rajyotsava Award is the second highest civilian honour of the Karnataka state of India and is conferred on November 1, the day of the formation of Karnataka. The award is given to citizens who have made significant contributions in areas such as Arts, Literature, Science, Education, Sports, medicine, public affairs and social service. In the year 2022, the main recipients of the award were former ISRO chairman K.Sivan, Kannada actors Wing Commander H.G. Dattatreya (retd.), Avinash and Sihi Kahi Chandru, writers A.R. Mitra and Krishne Gowda and many others. (ANI)
Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai on Thursday appeared before the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee to submit oral evidence on his allegations of "Cash for Query' against TMC MP Mahua Moitra. "I have told the truth before the Committee. All members of the committee enquired from me cordially. I answered to all that was asked from me," Advocate Dehadrai said. Earlier today, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Nishikant Dubey also appeared before the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee to submit oral evidence on his allegations of "Cash for Query' against Mahua Moitra. As he arrived at the Parliament annexe for the deposition, the BJP MP said that he would completely cooperate with the Committee and would be present whenever the Committee will call him for questioning. "I will give all the information that the Committee asks me to provide. I will appear before the Committee whenever it asks me to. I will submit all the documents, the truth is in the documents," Dubey said. Meanwhile, the Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha will call Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on October 31, over the cash-for-query allegations against her, the Chairman of Parliament Ethics Committee Vinod Sonkar said on Thursday. "The two people who were summoned today - the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey - were heard attentively. After that, it was decided that Mahua Moitra would be called on October 31. She will come and present her part. The committee has also decided that the IT Ministry and MHA will be sent letters to make her details available," Vinod Sonkar said. The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is headed by the BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar and includes Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; Ve Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Preneet Kaur of the Congress; Balashowry Vallabbhaneni (YSRCP); Hemant Godse (Shiv Sena); Giridhari Yadav (JD-U); P R Natarajan (CPI-M); and Kunwar Danish Ali (BSP). The BJP MP earlier wrote to the Lok Sabha Speaker, alleging the involvement of Mahua Moitra in the 'Cash for Query' scandal. He further claimed that he had proof of the charges as given to him by Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai. Dubey, in his letter to the Lok Sabha Speaker, titled "Re-emergence of nasty 'Cash for Query' in Parliament," had alleged "'serious Breach of Privilege', 'Contempt of the House' and a 'Criminal Offence' under Section 120A of IPC" by the Trinamool Congress MP. Dubey claimed that an Advocate, Jai Anant Dehadrai, had provided him with proof of a bribe. In response to this letter, the Trinamool Congress MP said that she would welcome a probe by the speaker after he dealt with alleged breaches of privilege by other BJP MPs. Dubey on Wednesday once again targeted Mahua Moitra. In a reply to the Trinamool Congress MP's remarks against him, Dubey said that the question is not about Adani, Degree or theft, but about corruption by misleading the country. "The question is about the dignity of Parliament, the security of India and the propriety, corruption and criminality of the alleged MP. The answer has to be given whether NIC mail is open in Dubai or not. Ask questions in exchange for money or not. Who bore the expenses of travelling abroad? Did you get permission from @loksabhaspeaker and @MEAIndia to go abroad or not? The question is not about Adani, degree or theft, but about your corruption by misleading the country," Nishikant Dubey posted on X. "Degree wali desh beche, chand paise ke le jamir beche (Those with degrees sell the country and sell their conscience for money)," he alleged. The charge by Nishikant Dubey followed Mahua Moitra's dig at him after Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured Dubey that his complaint on misuse of Parliament login credentials would be looked into. In a post on X on Tuesday, Mahua said, "Who is lying? 2 days ago Fake Degree Wala said NIC already given details including "Dubai" logins to the probe agency. Now Ashwini Vaishnaw says NIC will give info in future IF asked by LS or Ethics Comm. BJP is welcome to do a hit job on me but Adani+Godda perhaps not the best strategists!" (ANI)
The state of Karnataka has been facing a huge power crisis for the last few months, which has led to mega protests by the opposition. The State is seeing an unprecedented demand of more than 15000 MW in October 2023, Energy Minister K J George said on Wednesday in Delhi. Blaming the previous government for the current shortage of electricity, George said, that if the power generation level had been better during the previous BJP Karnataka government, the State would not have faced such a situation today. "The demand for power in the State has shot up this year compared to last year. In the last few years, power consumption has decreased due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, the demand has been unprecedented this year. The power demand has been so high that the power consumption in August has surpassed the summer months consumption", the Energy Minister added. "Power generation has remained the same in the last four years. Had the power generation level been better during the previous BJP Karnataka government, the State would not have faced such a situation today. In addition, the quality of coal allocated from the Central Government to the State is also not good. Along with this, due to lack of rain, this has adversely affected power generation. Power generation was doubled in our first term of government. In 2013-14, the electricity generation was 14,048 MW. It had increased to 27,780 MW by 2017-18", Energy Minister K J George added. The energy minister said that the main reason behind the power crisis in Karnataka was the shortage of rainfall in the summer monsoon. "This year's monsoon has been very poor. It has led to increased power consumption across all households and farmers' irrigation pump sets, roughly translating to a 45% increase in consumption. The irrigation pump sets have a lion's share of increased power consumption. The State has witnessed a production capacity drop of 300 MU due to a lack of power generation from thermal power plants (lack of poor monsoon), Solar power and Wind energy (Due to poor weather conditions and lack of sunshine). Daily, we have a demand of 270-280 MU, but we are able to generate 230-240 MU and are seeing a shortage of 30-40 MU per Day. Despite such shortfalls, the government is doing everything and ensuring that the energy consumption of consumers, farmers, and industries is being prioritised. Besides household power consumption, the farmers with irrigation pump sets have seen exponential power consumption to tend their crops in rural Karnataka", energy Minister K J George said. In the midst of this, the annual maintenance of the power plant has to be carried out, and despite that, we have continued to generate power and fuel the State's power consumption. Along with this, the Energy Minister added that we have also been buying power from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh under the Energy Swapping policy to meet the energy needs of the State. (ANI)
'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra', which is aimed at ensuring the implementation of the Centre's welfare schemes in rural India, will be launched on November 15 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Birsa Munda Jayanti, informed Apurva Chandra, the Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Apurva Chandra said that more than 2,500 education and communication (IEC) vans, will cover 2.5 lakh gram panchayats and 3700 urban local bodies in over 14,000 locations. This is the largest communication outreach ever launched by the government. Yatra will begin in tribal areas and continue for two months. Yatra is aimed at reaching out to every nook and corner of the country to showcase the benefits of the central government's schemes through personal stories, nukad nataks, quiz. Yatra is also aimed at reaching out to those who have not benefited from centrally run schemes for some reason, like sanitation facilities, electricity connections, LPG cylinders, healthcare, clean drinking water and others. More than 2700 IEC (information, education and communication) vehicles will be deployed to showcase the benefits of government schemes. The IEC vans to be used for Sankalp Yatra are well equipped with Wi-Fi and all modern multi-communication tools. There will also be a facility for live chats in these vans. He further said that Prime Minister Modi is also likely to be answering some questions raised by the people. IEC vehicles will disseminate information through visuals, brochures, pamphlets, booklets and flagship standees in Hindi and regional languages. "A nodal officer from the central government will be deployed with IEC vans covering gram panchayats and urban areas and the officer will coordinate with state and district counterparts," he said. Chandra also said that the Centre will soon be writing to state governments for participation in the Sankalp Yatra. Twenty central government schemes, including Kisan credit card, Har Ghar Jal mission, PM Awaas Yojana, and Ujwala Yojna, will be highlighted. As part of the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra', which will be launched after Diwali, specially customised vehicles or 'raths', will roll out to the length and breadth of the country, reaching the targeted beneficiaries of central schemes and ensuring that they are being implemented properly. Apurva Chandra further said that the objective of the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp' yatra is to reach out to the last person. He also said that the yatra will start in the poll-bound states--Telangana, Rajasthan, Mizoram, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh--once the elections are concluded. "There is no plan to start the 'Viksit Bharat Sankalp' yatra in poll-bound states where the model code of conduct is in place; the yatra will start in these states once elections are concluded," the Information and Broadcasting Secretary said. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in a roadshow organized in Chennai on Thursday regarding the Global Investor Summit to be held in Uttarakhand in December. During this, Chief Minister Dhami held a meeting with investors from various sectors. Along with Chief Minister Dhami, Uttarakhand cabinet ministers Satpal Maharaj and Saurabh Bahuguna also participated in the Chennai Road Show. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami invited investors from various groups who had come to the roadshow for the Global Investor Summit to be held in Dehradun in December. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand are spiritually interconnected. Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu and Shri Kedarnath and Adi Kailash in Uttarakhand are world-famous. He said that Lord Shiva is present in Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu and Shri Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand and Tamil Sangamam will be taken forward. He said that apart from being a world-class tourist destination in Uttarakhand, there is immense potential for investment in many sectors like food processing, auto component manufacturing, education and health. Uttarakhand is an investment-friendly state with the basic mantra of Peace to Prosperity. For this, excellent human labour, better infrastructure facilities, a peaceful environment and transparent incentive policies have been established by the government. He said that the state government has included traditional sectors of the state like tourism, AYUSH, wellness, food processing, automobiles, pharma as well as alternative energy and IT as focus sectors. The Chief Minister said that the road shows organized so far have been receiving very positive responses from investors from within the country and abroad. He said that only by building strong relationships and establishing partnerships with the private sector, we can move forward rapidly in the direction of economic progress and creation of employment opportunities in the state, that is why the state government in Uttarakhand has established better relations with industries. Top priority has been given to enhancing relations and coordination. The Chief Minister said that to make the state investor-friendly, more than 30 policies have been reformed in the last few months. He said that the theme of the Global Investor Summit has been kept as "Peace to Prosperity". Along with tourism, wellness and hospitality industries, many new and non-traditional industries are being developed in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is being established as a major pharma hub of the country. (ANI)
The Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan on Thursday said the Chennai police did not register its complaint on the petrol bomb incident, and alleged a fair probe was 'killed' even before it began. Further, it alleged the police diluted the attack as an act of simple vandalism and did not take up detailed interrogation. "Police did not register Raj Bhavan's complaint on the attack. The police Suo Motu diluted the attack as an act of simple vandalism and in a hurry got arrested accused remanded to jail at midnight waking up the magistrate and preventing detailed interrogation which could expose those behind the attack," Tamil Nadu Raj Bhavan stated. "A fair investigation is killed before it begins," Raj Bhavan added. Earlier on Wednesday, Tamil Nadu BJP President K Annamalai alleged that the petrol bomb incident outside Raj Bhawan shows that the DMK government is "sponsoring" these attacks, adding that Chief Minister MK Stalin is adopting "diversification tactics." In a post on X, Tamil Nadu BJP President Annamalai said, "Petrol bombs were hurled at Raj Bhavan today, reflects the true law and order situation in Tamil Nadu. While DMK is busy diverting the attention of people to insignificant matters of interest, criminals have taken the streets." He further stated that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin would remain silent on the incident and employ diversion tactics. "Incidentally, it is the same person who attacked BJP Tamil Nadu Headquarters in Chennai in Feb 2022 who is held responsible for the attack on Raj Bhavan today. These continuous attack only leaves one to think that the DMK government is sponsoring these attacks. Thiru MK Stalin will now be preparing for the next diversion, as he always does," he said. Responding to the attack on Raj Bhavan DMK MP Kanimozhi said the state government had taken immediate action to arrest the accused. "It is condemnable. No one accepts that act. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has asked to take action. The person who hurled the petrol bomb also has been arrested and more investigation will be done on this. The accused would be punished" Kanimozhi told reporters. Meanwhile, a complaint has been lodged at Guindy police station regarding the incident. In this regard, Prem Anand Sinha, Additional Commissioner of Police said, "Around 3 pm, an unidentified person tried to throw some bottles of petrol outside Raj Bhavan near barricades. As soon as this was noticed by the security personnel present there, they surrounded him, confiscated other bottles from his hand and immediately handed him over to the patrol vehicle and took him to the police station." No casualties have been reported in the incident. "It seems that he was drunk. There is absolute, alert and proper bandobast in front of Raj Bhavan. The person has been identified as a history-sheeter named K Vinod and he's a habitual offender.6-7 cases are already there against him," he added. (ANI)
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee warned the central government to restore Rabindranath Tagore's name on the plaque put up at the Viswa Bharati University. "Santiniketan has achieved the UNESCO tag because of Rabindranath Tagore...He is the creator of Santiniketan and Viswa Bharti. Since it was Durga Puja, we kept quiet. If they do not restore Rabindranath Tagore's name, our local people will protest holding Rabindranath Tagore's photo," Banerjee said, speaking at a press conference in Kolkata. The plaque was mired in controversy for not mentioning the Nobel Laureate's name and instead featuring the names of the Chancellor (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and the Vice Chancellor (Bidyut Chakrabarty). UNESCO granted World Heritage Site status to Santiniketan on September 17, following which a plaque was installed at the university. Mamata Banerjee also criticized the Minister of State for Rural Development, Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, for not hearing the grievances of MGNREGA protesters in Delhi. She highlighted the government's use of police against opposition ministers and officials while claiming that their own state ministers were unresponsive to concerns. "They send police to every opposition Ministers' house. But what about your Ministers. Your State Ministers do not have five minutes for us. Even when victims went to meet, after making them wait for three hours they were not allowed to meet the Minister for five minutes. They have become so big," Banerjee said. The West Bengal Chief Minister also lashed out to Bharatiya Janata Party president for referring to the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government as 'asur' (demon). "We have love, respect, belief in our Durga Puja. Earlier, they used to say that Mamata does not let them do Durga Puja. Now that Durga Puja has received the UNESCO Heritage tag after how much we promoted the festival, their president comes and says during puja that Trinamool Congress is the 'asur' that needs to be eradicated," Banerjee said. "I am inviting all of you to come and visit the state during Durga Puja, to visit pandals. I have no problem. So what is the problem with you? It is because your intention is only to malafide the opposition and all the political parties," she added. Speaking about the political vendetta of the BJP, the TMC supremo said that though her party has been deprived of national party status before 2026, they will fight back for it. "They snatched away some party's symbol. They took away Uddhav's symbol. We had all-India recognition until 2026. They have reduced it. We will fight and take it back," he said. Banerjee also slammed the central government for asking a document from her nephew and party General Secretary Abhhishek Banerjee which dates back to the time even before he was born. "Every day they are disturbing my Ministers' house, their wives, their family members. Forget my family members. They did not even spare us during puja. They are asking the same thing. They are asking for 42-year-old papers from the time when Abhishek was not even born," Banerjee said. The TMC chief said that even if the BJP put increasing number of people in jails during the elections, they will not manage to win in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. "You have elections in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Fight those politically...How many more people will you put in jail? So that during the election no one stays out? Even if you do this you will not get votes," she said. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh has entered into a new era of security and prosperity where the safety of every sister is assured and entrepreneurs can operate without fear of harassment, said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday. Addressing a public meeting during the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony of 311 development projects worth Rs 351 crore in Baghpat on Thursday, Yogi said that the development schemes are benefiting all segments of the population without discrimination. "Presently, no one can unlawfully seize a farmer's land, or jeopardise the future of the youth. Those who attempt to do so will face the consequences of their actions, including penalties", said Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The Chief Minister talked about converting Janta Vedic College into a university and directed concerned officials to send a proposal in this regard as soon as possible. Baghpat seems eager to touch new heights of development. Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh regarded India's villages as the foundation of the nation's progress. "In 2014, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi assumed office, he made efforts to prioritize villages, the poor, youth and women as the focal points of development. Presently, the outcomes of these efforts are visible through impartial development initiatives. The double engine government has genuinely paid homage to Chaudhary Saheb", added CM Yogi. He expressed satisfaction over the youth of Baghpat securing government jobs. "This opportunity should have been given earlier. The youth in this region had faced discrimination for 20-25 years. However, in a double-engine government, there is no discrimination, and development initiatives are executed efficiently. Besides, no one is allowed to promote anarchy or hooliganism. The youth of Baghpat is full of energy and their energy and talent are visible in the development of the country and the state", CM Yogi remarked. The Chief Minister emphasized that the government has paid tribute to Chaudhary Charan Singh by reviving the Chhaprauli Sugar Mill. The expansion of the Baghpat Sugar Mill is also on the horizon. He recalled that when he assumed office in 2017, sugarcane farmers had not received their due payments since 2010. Presently, sugarcane prices are paid annually. There is no need for anyone to be concerned, as the government is dedicated to ensuring food security, he pointed out. CM Yogi said that earlier no one had ever thought that a highway would be built here. Now, the Delhi-Dehradun Greenfield Expressway is being built here. This highway will bring development to the entire area, create new job opportunities, and increase value of land, thus stopping the migration of youth from the area, he added. "With the transformation of Janata Vedic College into a university, new subjects will be taught here. The youth from nearby districts will benefit from higher education. A medical college will also be inaugurated in Baghpat soon. The youth here will have the opportunity to study modern subjects", informed the Chief Minister. He said that the government respects farmers, artisans, and sportspersons. In the last one year, 500 players have been given jobs in the Police department in UP. The projects that were inaugurated, or for which foundation stones were laid, are related to roads, health, tourism and education. These projects will benefit every section of society. Referring to Kanwar Yatra, CM Yogi said, "Banning any festival is wrong. We must welcome a new era of prosperity while adhering to the discipline and traditions of festivals and celebrations." Before this, the Chief Minister also visited the exhibitions organized by various departments. At the same time, on behalf of the Bal Vikas Evam Pustahaar Vibhag, he provided food to children and distributed nutritious food to pregnant women. Additionally, the CM Yogi distributed tablets, smartphones, and certificates to the beneficiaries of various schemes and handed out certificates to the beneficiaries of the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat Yojana, PM SVANidhi Yojana, and the Poly and Pack House. Moreover, the Chief Minister distributed a check of Rs 10 lakh as part of the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swarozgar Yojana and distributed tablets and smartphones to girl students. (ANI)
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday participated in a roadshow organised in Chennai regarding the Global Investor Summit to he held in Uttarakhand in December. Along with Uttarakhand Chief Minister, Cabinet Minister Satyapal Maharaj and Saurabh Bahuguna were present at the event. During the Chennai road show, in the presence of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the state government signed investment MoUs worth Rs 10150 crore with various industry groups, which mainly include various industries related to healthcare, pharma, energy sector. The MoUs signed in the first session in Chennai include MoU of Rs 1000 crore with July Ventures for startup and Ecuador respectively, Rs 1000 crore with Kshana Group for investment in health care sector, Rs 600 crore with SRM University for investment in higher education, Heliport and MoUs worth Rs 500 crore were signed with Refex Group in the energy sector, Rs 250 crore with Enfla Movi Group for Aroma Park, Rs 100 crore with Miltex Group for investment in the tourism sector. In the second session, MoUs worth Rs 1 thousand crore, Apollo Hospital 500 crore, Craft Smith India Rs 1 thousand crore, Infinity Global Rs 4 thousand crore and TPCI worth Rs 200 crore were signed. Chief Minister of Uttarakhand Pushkar Singh Dhami also addressed "The Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023""Today we have come to invite you all to the Global Investors Summit to be held in Dehradun on 8-9 December. All of you must definitely attend this Investors Summit.", Dhami said in an address."We have made more than 30 investor-friendly policies for investment in the state, so I want to ask all of you to come and invest in Uttarakhand.", he added. Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami called on Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) and held a detailed discussion on various important issues related to the development of the state including the preparations being conducted for the successful organization of Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit-2023. (ANI)
Amidst the uproar from the Congress and other opposition parties regarding the actions of the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in Rajasthan, which included conducting raids on the premises of Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra in connection with an alleged paper leak case, State BJP Chief CP Joshi asserted on Thursday that the ruling party is "apprehensive" about the investigation because it is exposing their "truth" to the public. Taking a swipe at Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, CP Joshi alleged that Gehlot is the "badshah" (boss) of all the corruption taking place in the state. "Why Congress leaders are so afraid of the ED... The Rajasthan government has destroyed the lives of thousands of students in the state. Ashok Gehlot is the 'Badshah' of all the corruption taking place in the state and now that the ED is doing an investigation to prevail justice for the youths, they are having a problem... Why are they afraid? They are afraid because their truth is coming in front of the public of the state," he said. On Thursday, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) carried out searches at the properties of Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra and the party's candidate for the Mahua Assembly seat as part of a money laundering inquiry into an alleged examination paper leak case in the state in the poll-bound State. The premises of Dotasra, a former Minister for School Education, in Sikar and Jaipur, apart from party candidate from Mahua seat in Dausa, Omprakash Hudla, and some others were searched. The raids on the premises of Dotasara, who is contesting the November 25 election from Lacchmangarh in Sikar, began at 8.30am. Gehlot's son, Vaibhav Gehlot has also been summoned by ED in a foreign exchange violation case. The ED action came amid campaigning in the state for the assembly polls on November 25. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot attacked the BJP government, alleging that "it was goondaism" and the central government had "created terror" in the country through probe agencies. Addressing a press conference here, Gehlot said the situation is worrying and said that the BJP should seek to win over people through its policies, behaviour, and principles in democracy but is resorting to "goondaism". "Aap gundagardi kar rahe ho, gundagardi hai ye...Without pressure from the top neither ED nor CBI can come," he said. "The question is not about someone, the question is not about my son. They have spread terror across the country, it is not good indication. I have heard that ED officers have shifted their families to Chhattisgarh for a year now and are living there on rent because they had to raid every day," he added. Gehlot said the BJP has misconceptions and the ED action came as the Congress has decided to launch "guarantees" for the people of the state. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party claiming that as elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, and IT become the real "Panna Pramukh" of the BJP."As elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, IT etc. become the real 'Panna Pramukh' of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last move! After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders entering the assembly election campaign in Rajasthan," he wrote on X. "The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP," he added. However, BJP National General Secretary Arun Singh said that all independent agencies are doing the proceedings on their own level. "Everybody in Rajasthan knows how 17 times paper was leaked and the government didn't do any proceedings against the major suspects...It involved a huge exchange of money...All independent agencies are doing the proceedings on their own level. Everyone should welcome them. If they are not guilty, they'll not get caught and if they are guilty, they'll certainly get caught...," Singh said. (ANI)
A day after going into a huddle with the BJP's national president JP Nadda at the latter's New Delhi residence, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday held a meeting with senior office-bearers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its affiliated organisations to discuss the state of the country's economy and issues pertaining to it, along with several of his cabinet colleagues. According to sources, the RSS functionaries at the meeting were briefed on the Centre's economic policies and the work done under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to boost the country's key economic indices. The emphasis, according to sources privy to the meeting, was laid on promoting or conveying the Centre's efforts on the economic front to the people ahead of the upcoming state elections and the general elections next year. The meeting, which took place at the NDMC Convention Centre in the national capital, was attended by key members of the central cabinet including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce and Industries Minister Piyush Goyal, Labor Minister Bhupendra Yadav, and Heavy Industries Minister Mahendra Nath Pandey. Among the top RSS functionaries at the meeting were joint general secretary Arun Kumar, and other senior officials from Sangh affiliates such as Swadeshi Jagran Manch, Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh, Laghu Udyog Bharati, and Grahak Panchayat. "The meeting was aimed at ensuring better coordination between the government and these organisations on various financial, labour, textile, cooperative, and heavy industry-related matters," a source said. Further, during the meeting, the members of the central cabinet representing five key ministries gave detailed presentations, highlighting the work and accomplishments in their respective sectors over the last nine years that the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) has been in power at the Centre. The key takeaways from the presentations by each of the five Union ministers with the RSS functionaries and members of the Sangh affiliates in attendance. On Wednesday, Shah, along with the BJP's national chief Nadda and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and other top BJP leaders had a crucial meeting with senior RSS officials, which included the general secretary, joint general Secretary, and senior officers, to discuss matters of national importance, sources said. This meeting was held throughout the day at the NDMC Convention Center, focusing on employment and job opportunities along with other important topics. (ANI)
Jaishankar is in Kyrgyzstan to represent PM Modi at the 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) which is being held under the chairmanship of Kyrgyzstan.

"Delighted to call on President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyz Republic. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma, defence, agriculture and investments. Conveyed India's support for the successful Kyrgyz Presidency of SCO Council of Heads of Government," he posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Jaishankar also held talks with his Kyrgyzstan counterpart, Zheenbek Kulubaev about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade, economy and developmental projects.

"Good to see my old friend FM Zheenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek. Spoke about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade and economy, development projects, health and education. Also exchanged views on Afghanistan, West Asia and connectivity," he stated on X.

The EAM arrived in Bishkek on Wednesday and was welcomed by Deputy Foreign Minister Moldogaziev for a warm reception.

The October 25-26 meeting in the Kyrgyz capital city of Bishkek will be attended by the heads of governments of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the Vice-President of Iran, and the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan.

In Bishkek, the EAM will also meet with his counterparts from other SCO member states and call on the country's top leadership, the MEA statement read.

SCO observer States including Belarus and Mongolia as well as guest states Turkmenistan will also attend the meeting.

The CHG is the second-highest forum in SCO. It focuses primarily on the areas of economy, finance, commerce, and socio-economic cooperation.

India held the SCO Leaders Summit this year on July 4 in a virtual format. (ANI)
The number of Afghan people being deported from Pakistan and Iran has been confirmed by the Taliban's Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation of Afghanistan.

The Ministry said in a news release on Thursday that as of 24 October, 5,196 Afghan migrants have been forcibly sent back to Afghanistan through the border crossings at Turghandi and Spin Boldak.

Officials from the border administrations in Nangarhar and Kandahar state that 676 families totalling 4,606 people were sent back to Afghanistan by force via the Turghandi crossing.

Furthermore, 209 other families with a total of 1,190 individuals were returned across the Spin Boldak border. As of Monday, October 23, some 3,310 Afghan migrants had both voluntarily and involuntarily repatriated from Iran, according to the border official in Islam Qala, reported Khaama Press.

In the past, Pakistan and Iran had announced their intentions to remove Afghan individuals entering their countries without the appropriate legal papers. Significant national and worldwide reactions were sparked by this statement.

The practice of repatriating Afghan citizens from Pakistan and Iran continues, despite the significant uproar these decisions caused. The resolve of these nations to carry out their deportation plans highlights the intricacies pertaining to the position of Afghan migrants and their role in the region's larger immigration debate, Khaama Press reported. (ANI)
Weighing in on the protracted and ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said both the US and Australia were opposed to Moscow's "illegal and immoral invasion" of the neighbouring country. "We discussed our joint position opposing Russia's illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine," Albanese said at a joint briefing with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday. Addressing the joint briefing at the White House, the Australian PM reaffirmed his country's support for Ukraine. "Australia stands with Ukraine and President Biden welcomed the package of further assistance that I announced yesterday," PM Albanese said, adding that under this package, Ukraine will be provided with additional military assistance. "This will provide Ukraine with additional military assistance utilising innovative technology," he added. According to an official statement released by the White House, the alliance between the US and Australia and its stand against "aggression for Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine" or Hamas' attack on Israel could be relied upon to stand up for their common values. "In today's uncertain world, the alliance between Australia and the United States and the way that we stand steadfast against aggression, whether it be Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine or whether it be Hamas's terrorist attack on Israel, is something that can be relied upon for us to stand up for our common values," the statement read. Last month, the US warned of more sanctions against Russia and North Korea as Kim Jong Un arrived in Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin, giving rise to concerns about a possible arms deal between the two countries. Unfazed by the threat of fresh sanctions, the Kremlin said the Russian economy has adapted well to the Western sanctions and Moscow doesn't fear more such action, Al Jazeera reported. "Russia has been living under a sanctions regime for quite a long time, for decades, and we have sufficiently adapted to it, so such time horizons as five to 10 years do not scare us," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday. On February 25, 2022, a day after Russia launched a military offensive against Ukraine, the European Union introduced wide-ranging sanctions intended to send a clear signal to Moscow that there would be severe consequences for the conflict. Amid the prevailing conflict with Ukraine and its global fallout, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said while India-Russia ties may not be spectacular they were "exceptional and steady", adding that in many ways Moscow's relationship with the West has "broken down". "Now, if one looks at Russia today...as a consequence of what is going on in Ukraine...it seems to them clear that in many ways Russia's relationship with the West has broken down," the EAM said at an event during his recent visit to the US. (ANI)
Amid Russia's war against Ukraine, Russian Lawmakers have approved a bill revoking the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), Al Jazeera reported. According to Al Jazeera, the Russian upper house Federation Council unanimously okayed the bill to abandon the significant agreement outlawing nuclear weapons tests on Wednesday. The lower house State Duma passed it in an accelerated vote last week. The legislation now only needs the signature of President Vladimir Putin to come into effect. On October 6, Russia announced its intention to withdraw from the treaty but it's still unclear that the decision will result in Russia resuming tests of nuclear weapons, Al Jazeera reported. Putin said on October 5: "I hear calls to start testing nuclear weapons. I am not ready to say whether we really need to conduct tests or not." Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said earlier this month that Moscow will continue to respect the ban and will only resume nuclear tests if the US does so. However, he noted on Wednesday that the US conducted a chemical explosion at its test site in Nevada. While Washington said the test would help it "detect" low-yield nuclear explosions, Ryabkov told the Federation Council that the blast was "undoubtedly a political signal". "As our president said, we must be on alert, and if the United States moves towards the start of nuclear tests, we will have to respond here in the same way," the official said. The US stated earlier this month that it was "disturbed" by Russia's move to revoke ratification of the treaty. "A move like this by any state party needlessly endangers the global norm against nuclear explosive testing," the US State Department said. Russia should not be "wielding arms control and irresponsible nuclear rhetoric in a failing attempt to coerce other states", the State Department added, appearing to suggest that the move was aimed at pressuring the US and other countries who are supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian forces. Since invading the neighbouring country, Putin has repeatedly invoked Russia's nuclear doctrine. (ANI)
India slammed Pakistan for raising the Kashmir issue in the midst of a debate meant for the Israel-Gaza situation and termed the action as of a 'habitual nature'. R. Ravindra, India's Deputy Permanent Representative (DPR) to the United Nations on Wednesday before concluding his remarks at the forum called that the remarks from the Pakistan side unworthy of a response and not worth dignifying. "Before I end, there was a remark of habitual nature by one delegation referring to Union Territories that are integral and inalienable parts of my country," Ravindra said, adding, "I would treat these remarks with the contempt they deserve and not dignify them with a response in the interest of time." He also underlined New Delhi's efforts to send humanitarian assistance to civilians in the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, saying that it has sent 38 tons of food and critical medical equipment to the region. Ravindra made the statement while representing India at the United Nations Security Council Open-debate on the "situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question". Thanking the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the open debate on the latest chapter of hostilities in West Asia, he said India was deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation and large-scale loss of civilians in the ongoing conflict. "The mounting humanitarian crisis is equally alarming," he said. "India has sent 38 tons of humanitarian goods, including medicines and equipment, to the people of Palestine. We also urge the parties to work towards creating conditions necessary for peace and for restarting direct negotiations, including through de-escalation and issuing violence," Ravindra added. "The escalation of our utilities in the region has only exacerbated the dire humanitarian situation," he said, adding, "It has once again underscored the fragile nature of the ceasefire." The terror attacks that happened on October 7 in Israel were shocking and India condemned them unequivocally, the deputy permanent envoy to the UN noted. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first global leaders to convey his condolences over the loss of lives and "prayers for the innocent victims and their families". "We stood in solidarity with Israel at their moment of crisis when they were facing these terror attacks," Ravindra added. "We have also expressed deep shock at the tragic loss of lives at the Al Hali hospital in Gaza, where several hundreds of civilian casualties have occurred and thousands injured. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured," India's deputy permanent envoy to the world body added. PM Modi had also said those involved in the attack "must be held responsible", Ravindra added, noting that the civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict are a matter of serious and continuing concern. All parties must protect civilians, especially women and children. "The Unfolding humanitarian crisis needs to be addressed. We welcome the efforts of the international community for de-escalation and delivery of humanitarian goods to the people of Gaza," he added. Also reaffirming India's support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine issue, he said the same can lead to the establishment of a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine, living within secure and recognized borders, side by side in peace with Israel, taking into account the legitimate security concerns of Israel. "Towards this, we reiterate the need for an early resumption of direct peace negotiations. We also continue to support the Palestinian people through our bilateral development partnership, which covers a wide range of sectors including health, education, women's empowerment, entrepreneurship and information technology," Ravindra said. He added India was also supporting grassroots Palestinian institutions in their development initiatives. "In these challenging times, India will continue to send humanitarian assistance to the people of Palestine," India's deputy permanent envoy to the UN said. He stated that the current escalation of the conflict has once again underscored the need for immediate resumption of credible, direct negotiations between Israel and Palestine. "Every effort must be made to create conducive conditions for the resumption of these talks. We welcome all efforts of regional and global players aimed towards restoring normalcy," he said. Ravindra concluded his statement by reaffirming India's firm commitment to achieving a "just, peaceful and lasting solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict". (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], October 26 (ANI/TPS): The rescue workers of Magen David Adom's Ashdod station refer to their new feathered friend as the Iron Parrot. In the aftermath of Hamas' October 7 attack on Gaza-area communities, the MDA crew was sent to search for survivors and locate bodies in the rubble of Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The kibbutz is three km from the Gaza Strip. At least 70 of the kibbutz's 400 residents were massacred. Moving methodically from one destroyed house to the next, the crew came upon an unlikely scene: A gray, green and red parrot locked in a cage, frightened, its owner nowhere to be found. After making some inquiries, the MDA crew learned that its owner had been called up for reserve duty, unaware of the bird's fate. Without hesitation, the team evacuated the parrot to safety, carefully placing it in an ambulance and transporting it to the MDA station in Ashdod. "When the ambulance arrived at the station in Ashdod, I prepared for the worst, because even days after the serious incident, injured and dead bodies continued to arrive," said Nahum David, MDA's deputy director of the Lachish region. "But this time a cage was pulled out of the car with a magnificent but frightened and exhausted parrot in it." What did David do? "In emergency situations, no questions are asked. I brought the parrot into the station, we quickly fed him and watered him because according to our calculations, he was alone for three days and must have had some difficult moments," David explained. At first, the parrot remained anxious, but after several days of love and attention from the MDA staff, the bird slowly came back to himself. The parrot's owner has been informed. And until he finishes his reserve duty, the Iron Parrot continues to be doted on by his new MDA friends. (ANI/TPS)
Chinese charitable organization distributes food packages to Sri Lankan students

Xinhua) 09:08, October 26, 2023

COLOMBO, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese charitable organization said on Wednesday that it has begun to distribute food packages to students across 139 schools in seven provinces of Sri Lanka.

Under China Foundation for Rural Development (CFRD)'s Smiling Children Food Package Project, 10,000 Sri Lankan students will be benefited, according to the CFRD.

A ceremony to launch the Smiling Children Food Package Project was held in Colombo on Wednesday with the attendance of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

Appreciating the distribution of food packages by the CFRD to children in poverty-stricken areas in Sri Lanka, Gunawardena said Sri Lanka needs to learn from China's experience in poverty reduction to realize sustainable development.

Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong said the CFRD's Smiling Children Food Package Project will help needy families, adding that China is willing to share the experience in poverty reduction with Sri Lanka, and the CFRD has innovated many successful practices in the process of poverty reduction in China.

Liu Wenkui, executive vice chairman of CFRD, shared his experience in poverty reduction, saying that the CFRD would like to work together with Sri Lanka to promote poverty reduction in Sri Lanka in the future.

The CFRD is a non-governmental charitable organization specializing in humanitarian aid and poverty reduction, with its International Smiling Children Project already operating in Ethiopia, Sudan, Nepal and Myanmar.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The attack shattered windows at the plant and injured 20 people. The International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, said blasts from the drone attack did not affect the plant's operations or its connection to the grid.

Zelenskyy had earlier warned that Ukraine would strike back if Moscow embarked on an air campaign aimed at crippling the national power grid during winter.

Last year, millions of Ukrainians faced sweeping power cuts in sub-zero temperatures after Russia attacked power facilities.

"We're preparing for the terrorists to strike energy infrastructure. This year we will not only defend ourselves, but we will also respond," Zelenskyy wrote on the Telegram messaging app, as per Al Jazeera.

Meanwhile, the governor of Ukraine's southern Kherson region, Oleksandr Prokudin, said a man was killed after a Russian bomb fell on a residential area of the city of Beryslav early on Wednesday morning. Prokudin said that Russian forces had carried out 35 aerial attacks on the Kherson region in the previous 24 hours.

Russia's military said its air defence forces shot down two long-range US-made ATACM missiles fired by Ukraine at Russian targets. It did not provide further details.

Deputy chair of Russia's Security Council and former president Dmitry Medvedev said the armed forces had recruited 385,000 people so far this year. The military has offered huge salaries and welfare programmes to convince people to sign up. "More than 1,600 people are signing a contract with the armed forces every day," Medvedev said in a video on social media, as per Al Jazeera. (ANI)
The visit is part of the "Green Diplomacy Weeks 2023," an initiative organised by the EU, which aims at promoting a "just energy transition globally," said a statement by the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR).

On the facility's potential capacity, Dr. Ahmed Al-Mulla, Acting Executive Director of the Energy Research Centre, said, "It could reach 70 megawatts in the first phase of the project, while it consists of three technologies including solar thermal energy, photovoltaic energy and wind energy."

The visit of the EU contingent "reflects the bloc's commitment to combating climate change and the urgent need to transition to renewable energy sources," added the statement.

The EU "Green Diplomacy Weeks" is part of the annual global campaign launched by the European Union and its Member States to spark conversations and inspire action for the environment. For this year's EU Green Diplomacy Weeks, the theme is "Empowering the Future: Cleaner Energy, More Equal Opportunities".(ANI/WAM)
The Israeli fighter jets carried out overnight airstrikes over 250 Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip including a rocket launch site that was hidden between a mosque and kindergarten, Times of Israel reported on Thursday. IDF has called this "another proof" that terror group Hamas uses "civilian sites for terror purposes". The sites struck by Israel included Hamas infrastructure, command centers, tunnels, and rocket launchers, according to the IDF. The IDF said that the rocket launchers were "placed in the heart of civilian areas that fired toward Israeli territory throughout the war." It further said that the missile launch site is "located adjacent to a mosque and kindergarten, which is further proof that Hamas deliberately uses civilian sites for terror purposes." Israeli Air Force also said in a statement about attacking over 250 terror targets of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. "Terrorist infrastructure, combat tunnel shafts and launchers in a civilian environment; The Air Force attacked over 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the last day, fighter jets of the Air Force attacked more than 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip," Israeli Air Force posted on X (formerly Twitter). Among the targets that were attacked, were terrorist infrastructures, operational headquarters, terrorist tunnel shafts and rocket launchers placed in a civilian environment, which were used to shoot at Israel during the fighting. Separately, the IDF said that the Navy forces struck a Hamas surface-to-air missile launch position in Khan Younis, Times of Israel reported. IDF also posted a purported audio conversation between an IDF officer and Gazan civilian about Hamas terrorists not allowing civilians to evacuate towards Southern Gaza. "LISTEN to an IDF officer in Unit 504 encourage a resident of Gaza to evacuate southward for their safety. Hamas continues to use the civilians of Gaza as human shields, not allowing them to evacuate," IDF posted on X Meanwhile, the families of 224 hostages have been notified about their keen being held in the Gaza by Hamas, Times of Israel reported. IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said that the military has so far notified the families of 224 hostages that their loved ones are being held in the Gaza Strip. He said that the number is not final as the military investigates new information. Notably, the number does not include four released hostages -- mother and daughter Judith and Natalie Ra'anan, freed on Friday night, and elderly women Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper released on Monday night, Times of Israel reported. Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7, which killed over 1400 people and left several more injured. After this, Israel launched a strong counter-offensive against Hamas units in Gaza strip. According to the health ministry of Hamas, the death toll in Gaza has crossed 7,000, Times of Israel reported. (ANI)
Dozens of people from Kfar Aza, one of the areas most severely damaged by Hamas' October 7 attacks on southern Israel, have been carrying out protests in Tel Aviv on Thursday, The Times of Israel reported. Hamas killed numerous kibbutz residents and kidnapped several others. The locals demand that the government take all necessary steps to release the hostages by holding rallies, as they raised placards and slogans regarding the same, The Times of Israel reported. "Our hearts are captive in Gaza," read the sign. Several others held pictures of their loved ones too, while carrying out the protests. Earlier today, the Israel Defence Forces said it has struck and killed the head of Hamas's North Khan Younis rocket array, Hassan al-Abdullah. The Israeli forces said that the airstrike was carried out following intelligence information on al-Abdullah's whereabouts, gathered by the Shin Bet security agency and Military Intelligence Directorate, according to The Times of Israel. The IDF also posted a video showing some of the recent airstrikes on social media platform X and wrote, "IDF fighter jets carried out a precise air strike based on IDF and ISA intelligence and eliminated the Commander of Hamas' Northern Khan Yunis Rockets Array, Hassan Al-Abdullah." https://x.com/IDF/status/1717513327063015743?s=20 Moreover, according to The Times of Israel, the IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the military has so far notified the families of 224 hostages that their loved ones are being held in the Gaza Strip. He says the number is not final as the military continues to investigate new information. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday had asked Gaza residents to share verified, valuable information about hostages being held in their area. "If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the IDF asked Gaza residents. "The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality," the IDF wrote on 'X'. "The contact details are: Secure phone call: *8619; Whatsapp, Telegram, Signal:+972503957992," the IDF said. The IDF on Saturday also said that "Civilians and hospitals in Gaza need fuel to produce electricity. Hamas has that fuel." An IDF spokesman wrote: "Hamas continues to make its claims of its inability to supply hospitals, bakeries, and civilians with fuel. They steal diesel from civilians and transfer it to their tunnels, bombers, and commanders." Meanwhile, one of the two hostages recently freed by Hamas, Yocheved Lifshitz, has said she "went through hell" after being kidnapped by the terrorist group in the October 7 attack on Israel, CNN reported. The 85-year-old on Tuesday remembered the moment she was abducted by gunmen on motorbikes after militants broke into her home in the Kibbutz Nir Oz. Lifshitz said: "It was difficult but we will get through this." She made the remarks at the Tel Aviv hospital where she has been recovering since being freed. Hamas released Lifshitz and her neighbour and friend Nurit Cooper, 79, on Monday, and later they were reunited with family members who rushed to their bedside at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv. The release of the two women brings the total number of captives freed to four, but more than 200 hostages are believed to be trapped in Gaza, some within the labyrinth of Hamas tunnels dug beneath the coastal strip. The remaining hostages include Lifshitz and Cooper's husbands, Oded Lifshitz, 83, and Amiram Cooper, 85. (ANI)
The Israeli Defence Forces said that it launched a drone strike against a Hezbollah cell in southern Lebanon, The Times of Israel reported. The Hezbollah cell was reportedly getting ready to launch an anti-tank guided missile attack against a border army position. The IDF has increased airstrikes against terrorists from Hezbollah who are preparing missile and rocket attacks on northern Israel in recent days. In the midst of the Gaza Strip conflict, the terror group has so far identified 46 members who were killed by Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon. The IDF has also released video of the most recent attack, The Times of Israel reported. The Israel Defence Forces had confirmed a day before that another terror cell in Southern Lebanon was struck near the northern community of Zar'it. According to the IDF, a drone strike and artillery bombardment were both directed at the cell. The head of Lebanon's Hezbollah also met with top leaders of Palestinian terrorist groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad on Tuesday, according to the Times of Israel. The Israeli publication posted an image tweeted on social media X to show Hezbollah chief Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, with Hamas deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri, and Islamic Jihad chief Ziad al-Nakhala. The screenshot of the tweet published in the daily read, "Among other topics, discussions regarding the appropriate measures that Resistance Axis members must take to reach a definite victory in Gaza and Palestine took place." The "Axis of Resistance", according to the New York Times report is the term used for a regional network of militias in the alliance of Iran, Palestinian militant groups, Syria, Lebanon's Hezbollah, and other factions. Since the October 7 attack by Hamas terrorists on Israel from Gaza, Hezbollah has been operating freely against Israel along Lebanon's border with Israel, firing rockets and anti-tank missiles at Israeli towns and army positions and opening fire at troops on a near-daily basis. The IDF has responded by striking the terror group's cells and posts in southern Lebanon, the Times of Israel said. IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said on Wednesday that Iran directly aided Hamas ahead of the October 7 attack on southern Israel. "Iran directly aided Hamas before the war, with training, supplying weapons, money, and technological know-how," Hagari said in a press conference. "Even now, Iranian aid to Hamas in the form of intelligence and online incitement against the State of Israel, continues," the IDF spokesperson was quoted by Times of Israel.Previously, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned that fighting against Israel might open on "other fronts" if Israel continues its bombardment of Gaza. (ANI)
The High Commissioner also expressed a keen interest in visiting these institutions, and CM Kejriwal assured him of a warm and well-arranged visit.

Minister of Education, Water and PWD, Atishi was also present with the Chief Minister during the discussions.

"High commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to India, H.E. Mr. Ahmed Sule called upon the Hon'ble Chief Minister @ArvindKejriwal at Delhi Secretariat today," the Delhi CMO posted on X (formerly Twitter).

"Discussions revolved around education and health. Highlighting the excellent work being carried out in these sectors. The High Commissioner expressed a keen interest in visiting these institutions, and Hon'ble CM assured him of a warm and well-arranged visit," it added.

https://x.com/CMODelhi/status/1717452728660558115?s=20

Last month, High Commissioner Sule had extended an invitation to India to do business together during the Nigeria-India Presidential Roundtable and Business Conference in New Delhi.

Meanwhile, Kejriwal participated in the Ravan Dahan organised by the Lav Kush Ramleela Committee in Delhi on the occasion of Dussehra. (ANI)
Afghanistan has been listed as the least progressed country in the world for women's rights out of 177 countries, according to research from the George Washington Institute and the Oslo Peace Research Institute, Khaama Press reported. This report on the condition of Afghan women, according to the director of the Oslo Peace Institute, is "a warning bell for world leaders. This research also looks at other issues in these 177 nations, including sexual assault, systemic violence, women's employment, maternal mortality, and education levels for women. As per the institute, the least performing countries are those classified as "fragile states." Afghanistan, which is a "fragile state" in this category, does the worst when it comes to women. After the Taliban took over in 2021, the situation for women and girls in Afghanistan quickly deteriorated. "In Afghanistan, women have gone to school for less than 3 years on average; less than five per cent of women have access to their bank account; and more than 90% live near armed conflict. Afghanistan's maternal mortality rates are among the 10 worst in the world," the report said, according to Khaama Press. Because of the Taliban's limitations on women's social lives, economic activity, political engagement, and jobs, the country has become a terrible place for women to live. In an official statement, the head of the Oslo Peace Research Centre, Torunn L. Tryggestad, stated that "Afghan women begin each day without jobs, education, and freedom." She underlined that "world leaders should be warned because women are imprisoned in this country" by this revelation, according to Khaama Press. Since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, they have issued several decrees which impose restrictions on women. Afghanistan's women have faced numerous challenges since the Taliban returned to power in 2021. Girls and women in the war-torn country have no access to education, employment and public spaces. (ANI)
UK Conservative MP Theresa Anne Villiers met members of the Jammu and Kashmir diaspora in the British House of Commons to mark the anniversary of Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India. Villiers said she raised concerns, this week, regarding human rights abuses committed against Hindus and other minority communities in Pakistan. The members of the Jammu and Kashmir diaspora, who participated in the meeting with Theresa Anne Villiers, included Ajatshatru Singh, Ritu Singh and Sushil Pandit. Villiers noted that it has been 76 years since the accession of Jammu and Kashmir to India. In a post on Facebook, Theresa Anne Villiers stated, "It is exactly 76 years since the accession of the state of Jammu & Kashmir to India on 26th Oct 1947. I met members of the Jammu & Kashmir diaspora in Parliament last night at an event to mark this important anniversary." "The special guests for the evening included Maharaja Ajatshatru Singh and Ritu Singh from the royal family that formerly ruled Jammu & Kashmir. Another of the distinguished panel of speakers was Sushil Pandit who highlighted the plight of Hindu Kashmiri Pandit community, many of whom who were forced out of their homes in the Kashmir Valley in 1990. This side of the Kashmir question does not get sufficient attention in Parliament. I hope to try to remedy that. This week in Parliament I also raised concerns about human rights abuses committed against Hindus and other minority communities in Pakistan," she noted in the post. The House of Commons celebrated Jammu and Kashmir Day on the eve of the 76th anniversary of the Accession of the then princely state to India on October 26, 1947. The programme, organised by the Jammu Kashmir diaspora based in the UK, was hosted by Rt Hon Bob Blackman, MP Harrow East. The special guests for the evening included, among others, Ajatshatru Singh and Ritu Singh from the erstwhile royal family of Jammu and Kashmir. Among the other keynote speakers were Gautam Sen, Sushil Pandit and Mr Sajjad Raja, NEP Party representing Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The proceedings were inaugurated by UK MP Jonathan Lord, who welcomed the royals from Jammu and Kashmir and other guests and audience. Gautam Sen spoke about the plight of Kashmiri Pandits and the lack of political will to support their rehabilitation and he attributed this to the vote bank politics highlighting that the Pandit community, being small in number, does not have a political voice. Sajjad Raja spoke about the atrocities on Hindus and Sikhs during the partition and strongly argued that Pakistan was not a party to the Jammu & Kashmir issue, as they were the aggressors who invaded and forcibly occupied PoK in 1947. Ajatshatru Singh spoke about the Dogra dynasty and their contribution to the establishment and expansion of Jammu & Kashmir. He also underlined then Maharaja, Hari Singh's role in signing the instrument of accession with India. Theresa spoke about the importance of Jammu Kashmir Day and also highlighted the significant progress made by the region since the revocation of Article 370. Sushil Pandit raised the injustice being done to the Kashmiri Pandit community and also highlighted the apathy of the establishment in fulfilling the aspirations of the community. Bob Blackman brought with him a signed copy of the Instrument of Accession and highlighted the contribution of the diaspora community in celebrating the day year after year in the House of Commons. He urged Pakistan to stop state-sponsored terrorism in the region so there is lasting peace and progress in the region. Ritu Singh spoke about the erstwhile Royal Family's contribution to Jammu and Kashmir. She also talked about a number of social and cultural initiatives in the region specifically aimed at woman empowerment, skills development and preservation of craft and culture. (ANI)
After ten days on the run, one of four inmates who escaped from a Georgia jail is back in custody.

The U.S. Attorneys Office confirmed to Channel 2 Action News that Chavis Stokes was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals around 2 p.m. in Montezuma, Ga.

The town of Montezuma is more than 50 miles away from the Bibb County Jail where the men went missing.

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Stokes was previously charged with possession of a firearm and drug trafficking. Its unclear what new charges he will face.

The four men escaped around 3 a.m. on Oct. 16, hopped in a blue Dodge Charger and sped off.

The getaway car was found abandoned days later and said to be a rental car from Enterprise Rent-A-Car.

RELATED STORIES:

The man who rented that car, Jakaylen Williams, has since been arrested and charged with assisting the escaped inmates.

A second person, Mykia Williams, was also taken into custody for assisting them, but warrants did not elaborate on what she did to get that charge.

The remaining men on the run include:

52-year-old Joey Fournier, who was being held in jail for murder. Fournier has blue eyes and gray hair. He stands 5 feet, 9 inches tall.

24-year-old Marc Kerry Anderson, who was being held in jail for aggravated assault. Anderson has dreads. He stands 5 feet, 9 inches tall.

37-year-old Johnifer Dernard Barnwell, who was being held for the United States Marshals. Barnwell has braids. He stands 5 feet, 9 inches tall.

Anyone who knows where they may be should contact the Bibb County Sheriffs Office at 478-751-7500 or Macon Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-877-68CRIME.

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Ten million more Americans are living in households that are struggling with hunger, according to a new United States Department of Agriculture report.

The report, released Wednesday, found 44.2 million Americans were living in food-insecure households in 2022. In comparison, in 2021, 33.8 million million Americans were living in food-insecure households.

These findings are unacceptable, yet the report is the latest piece of evidence that as the pandemic began to wane in 2022, another public health concern  food insecurity increased, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a press release on the report.

The 44.2 million Americans living in food-insecure households include 30.8 million adults and 13.4 million children. Other findings in the report include 17.3 percent of households in the U.S. with children under the age of 18 having food insecurity at some point in 2022, up around 5 percent from the previous year.

The report also comes amid a heated debate over food subsidies in this years Farm bill in Congress. House and Senate Democrats are seeking to protect Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in the bill amid Republican efforts to cut spending.

If they screw around with SNAP, there will be no farm bill, Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), co-chair of the House Hunger Caucus, told The Hill earlier this year.

The farm bill is on a daunting to-do list for Congress in the coming months as the House returns to normal business after weeks of not having a Speaker.

Vilsack also raised alarm Thursday about the National School Lunch Program and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, which he said were currently at risk of reduced funding or restricted access.

With this evidence before us, there is no excuse to look the other way while our countrys children and families contend with this unfair yet preventable hardship, he added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Fourteen men were arrested on charges related to trying to have sex with a child as part of a multi-agency sting operation that spanned from the San Joaquin Valley to the Central Coast.

The undercover sting, called Operation Boogeyman, was conducted from Oct. 18-20 and involved 17 law enforcement agencies, including the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office and the Paso Robles Police Department.

The Fresno County Sheriffs Office released the names and ages of the suspects arrested:

James Barboza, 31

Cresenciano Cortez Merino, 39

Desmond Fitzgerald, 21

Louie Gonzalez, 41

Jack Hastings, 30

Elias Ibarra, 30

Sukhpreet Jassar, 57

Giovanni Jimenez, 29

Miguel Jimenez, 34

Sebastian Mouvangsou, 30





Anthony Rice, 27





Eliazar Sanchez, 39

Bryan Smith, 35

Alonzo Watson, 58

During Operation Boogeyman, detectives posing as preteen and early teenage boys and girls identified, contacted and arrested people who may be trying to target children for sex.

The Fresno County Sheriffs Office said the suspects used sexually explicit language and sent graphic photos to the undercover detectives.

The Sheriffs Office said all of the suspects were first to express their sexual desires and they initiated a time to meet.

Following their arrests, the majority of suspects have since posted bond, been assigned a court date and been released from custody.

No actual children were ever used or placed in danger during the operation, the Sheriffs Office added.

Agencies involved in the operation were:

California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation

California Department of Justice

Central California Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

Fresno County Sheriffs Office

Fresno County District Attorneys Office

Fresno County Probation Adult Compliance Team (ACT)

Fresno Police Department

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)

Madera County Sheriffs Office

Mariposa County Sheriffs Office

Multi-Agency Gang Enforcement Consortium (MAGEC)

Paso Robles Police Department

San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Office

Sanger Police Department

U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of California

Visalia Police Department

Law enforcement is reminding the public to be vigilant when it comes to visiting websites and social media outlets.

They suggest parents monitor their childrens internet usage and be aware of the apps they are using.

Operation Boogeyman remains an ongoing investigation and more arrests could be made.
At least 18 people were killed and 13 injured in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night in a mass shooting incident at two locations, and the suspect remains at large.

Lewiston Police said there was an active-shooter situation at Schemengees Bar and Grille, a restaurant, and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles away. People in the bowling alley said the shooting began about 7 p.m.

Residents have been instructed to shelter in place.

Police released a photo of a person of interest, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card  a firearms instructor in the Army Reserve assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine. Police warned Card is considered armed and dangerous.

Over the summer, Card spent two weeks in a mental health facility, according to a document circulated to law enforcement officials and reported by The Associated Press. The suspect, according to the document, said he was hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base.

Maine State Police expanded the shelter-in-place advisory overnight to include residents of Lisbon after they found a vehicle of interest there. By Thursday morning, residents of Bowdoin were also included.

More than 100 federal and local investigators are working to locate Card. Many schools in the area remained closed Thursday because police asked residents to remain at home and lock their doors.

Survivors reported Card entered the bowling alley and began shooting. Many said they hid behind pins and climbed up into the machinery to remain safe.

Police said they set up a location at a local middle school for families and friends concerned about loved ones.

Two law enforcement officials told the AP at least 16 people died, but Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, declined to provide a specific number.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D), who was briefed on the situation, urged residents in the area to follow the direction of law enforcement.

I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials, she said.

President Biden, who called the incident a horrific attack, spoke by phone to Mills, Maine Sens. Angus King (I) and Susan Collins (R), and Maine Rep. Jared Golden (D) about the incident, according to the White House. He offered full federal support.

Like all Mainers, Im horrified by the events in Lewiston tonight, Golden said in a statement. This is my hometown. Right now, all of us are looking to local law enforcement as they gain control of the situation and gather information.

Our hearts break for those who are affected and we encourage everyone to follow the directions of the authorities as they conduct their work, he added.

King and Collins both thanked Biden for his call and offer of support and federal assistance. King said he was headed back home to Maine to support the community.

Senator King expressed his deep appreciation to the President for the outreach and support. Given the horrific nature of the events in Maine, Senator King will now be headed to Maine on one of the first flights available  he wants to be home to support Lewiston in any way he can, his office said in a statement.

As our state mourns this horrific mass shooting, we appreciate the support weve received from across the country, including the call I received from President Biden offering assistance, Collins wrote late Wednesday night.

 Updated at 11:25 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A young child thanked a first responder last week after officials said he saved his life.

Habersham County sheriff officials said at Habersham E-911 Childrens Fun Fest, 2-year-old Atticus Khadayat of Demorest was excited to meet one of the men who saved his life.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

In March, officials said he became very ill and was flown from the hospital in Gainesville to the pediatric intensive care unit in Macon, where medical personnel provided treatment.

Officials did not specify what the illness was.

Dressed as a Demorest firefighter, at the fun fest, Atticus Khadayat met Certified Flight Paramedic Kevin Queen of Air Life Georgia, the medical helicopter based at the Habersham County Airport.

TRENDING STORIES:

Officials said that even though he received good care at both hospitals, its Air Life 2 that he remembers.

He talks about the helicopter all the time now, his mom, Susan Khadayat, said. He calls it my helicopter.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

Susan Khadayat said her son is doing well and having fun.

It was special to bring him back healthy and let him meet the man that took care of him on his worst day, she said.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Police in Oklahoma are investigating after they say two high school students were found dead in a car parked at a Dunkin.

Kadence Brown and Jacob Lara, both 17, have been identified as the teens found in the car, according to a news release from the Tulsa Police Department.

Tulsa police found the two dead in a car parked at a Dunkin around 5:20 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22, after they were both reported missing earlier that day. Police say an employee told them the car had been parked there since around 7 p.m. the evening before.

A preliminary report from the medical examiner indicates that the cause of death was accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, according to police.

By using equipment designed to detect levels of carbon monoxide, investigators found that while the vehicle was idling, lethal amounts of carbon monoxide filled the passenger compartment, police said in a news release.

Tulsa Public Schools confirmed in a Facebook post that the two were students at Will Rogers College High School.

This week has been one of the most difficult for our community, as we grieve the loss of two of our students, the post said.

Brown was a state-qualifying wrestler who had dreams to take her love of wrestling to the collegiate level, according to a GoFundMe page.

Her family and friends remember her for her loving demeanor, her strength of spirit, and the way her laugh lit up a room, the GoFundMe said.

Im really lost of words right now, really cant believe this, my lil princess is gone, Browns dad wrote on Facebook. So hurt right now knowing Ill never see her again.

Lara was a sweet and caring kid who was a light in everyones life, a GoFundMe page said.

We are all devastated by Jacobs loss, the GoFundMe said.

Such a pure heart, will forever ever be in our hearts. There wont ever be a day I wont miss or think about you my sweet brother I love you forever, Laras sister posted on Facebook.

Thank you God for lending him to me, we love you my son his mother wrote on Facebook.

14-year-old girl killed by Amtrak train while crossing tracks, Oklahoma police say

18-year-old University of Georgia student killed in rock climbing fall, coroner says

15-year-old dies after collapsing during no-contact football practice, officials say
There are few things you can count on in life aside from dying, paying taxes and, at some point, having to apologize for some boneheaded thing you did (or maybe many, many boneheaded things).

But nailing a genuine Im sorry is often anything but easy. There are numerous ways to veer off course, drag in unnecessary issues, or signal you dont really mean what youre saying. In fact, using two little words  if or but  in your apology could end up completely negating it.

Thats because Im sorry if... or Im sorry but... usually position the apology as conditional, and what follows can cancel out any accountability you might have intended to take or cast blame on the other person, which is the opposite of what you want to achieve.

This is just one of the ways we  Raj Punjabi and Noah Michelson, co-hosts of HuffPosts Am I Doing It Wrong? podcast  discovered apologies can go very wrong when we recently chatted with HuffPost senior reporter Kelsey Borresen.

Listen to the episode below to find out what to say instead (including the one phrase you probably always want to add to your apologies), the difference between an excuse and an explanation (and why the latter can come in very handy), and more:

After youve had a listen above or wherever you get your podcasts, subscribe to Am I Doing It Wrong? so you dont miss a single episode, including our investigation of the ins and outs of tipping, how to score the best deals on airline tickets, interviewing for a job like a pro, getting the best sleep ever and slaying your next trip to the grocery store.

Need some help with something youve been doing wrong? Email us at AmIDoingItWrong@HuffPost.com, and we might investigate the topic in an upcoming episode.

Related...
FILE - This aerial view shows the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Fukushima, northern Japan, on Aug. 24, 2023, shortly after its operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings TEPCO began releasing its first batch of treated radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean. Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant said it began releasing a second batch of treated radioactive wastewater into the sea on Thursday, Oct 5, 2023, after the first round of discharges ended smoothly.(Kyodo News via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

TOKYO (AP)  Two workers at the tsunami-wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant were hospitalized after accidentally getting sprayed with liquid laced with radioactive materials, officials said Thursday.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when a group of workers was cleaning the piping at the Advanced Liquid Processing System. The ALPS is a wastewater filtering facility that is key to the treatment of the radioactive wastewater that accumulates on the plant and its ongoing discharge into the sea.

Four workers were cleaning the piping when a drainage hose suddenly came off. They were splashed with the tainted liquid waste, which was not the wastewater running inside the system.

All four were wearing full face masks, and test results showed none of them had ingested radioactive particles. None have shown any health issues, according to plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, or TEPCO.

A fifth worker, who was also assigned to the cleaning work, was temporarily away when the accident occurred.

TEPCO began the controversial wastewater discharges on Aug. 24 from Fukushima Daiichi, which suffered triple meltdowns following the 2011 quake and tsunami. The discharges, which are expected to continue for decades, have been strongly opposed by fishing groups and neighboring countries, including China, which immediately banned imports of all Japanese seafood.

TEPCO has since completed the first two rounds of discharges as planned, and is preparing for a third, beginning in early November. Junichi Matsumoto, a TEPCO executive in charge of the treated waster discharge, told reporters that Wednesday's accident would not affect discharge plans.

Following the accident, two of the four workers were able to rinse off the contamination to the levels that allowed them to leave the plant. The other two, who had the liquid soaked through their double-layer hazmat suits and underwear and could not sufficiently lower the radiation levels, had to be taken to a hospital for further decontamination and monitoring, TEPCO said.

One of the hospitalized workers, in his 20s, was found to have exposures on the whole body except for his face, while the other man, in his 40s, had exposures in the stomach area. Risks for them to get skin burns from the radiation exposure were extremely low, TEPCO said, quoting a doctor who had examined the two workers.
Monday at 9 a.m., the Illinois State Board of Education will publish the 2023 Illinois Report Card, its annual roundup of how the state and each public district and school within it performed during the previous school year.

The report card is the main tool of Illinois school accountability system and offers a complete picture of student and school performance in order to inform and empower families and communities as they support their local schools, according to the state boards website.

The state board collects data on a range of academic and student success metrics and then assigns schools one of five categories according to their performance. Those in the lowest-performing three categories receive assistance and funding to improve their outcomes.

The state board has been producing the report card for every district and school since 1986, and the report card for the state as a whole since 2002.

Federal law requires states and school districts to prepare and disseminate a report card providing information on their performance and progress. Illinois law further outlines when and how the state board must prepare and provide the states report card as well as the report cards for districts and their schools.

The state law also requires school districts to share their report card results within 30 days of receiving them at a regular board meeting, on their websites and by sending a physical copy home to parents upon request.

To create the report card for districts and their schools, the state board gathers data from school districts for various accountability indicators. Schools get a score on a scale of 100 for each indicator, then those indicator scores are weighted and added up to calculate a schools index score, also out of 100. The state board also creates an index score for all student groups within a school.

The state board then issues a summative designation to each school based on its index score. The highest-performing 10% of schools receive an exemplary designation and the lowest-performing 5% of schools receive a comprehensive support designation.

All schools in between receive a commendable designation, unless one or more of the schools student groups is performing in line with the lowest-performing 5% of schools, in which case the school receives a targeted support designation. There is a new, fifth designation this year called intensive support.

To learn more about the methodology used for the Illinois Report Card so you know how to interpret your schools results, the Belleville News-Democrat talked with Jackie Matthews, executive director of communications for the state board, and reviewed numerous fact sheets and other resources on the state boards website.

What are the accountability indicators?

The accountability indicators are broken into two categories: academic indicators, like English language arts and math proficiency, and school quality and student success indicators, such as chronic absenteeism.

Three-fourths of a schools index score is based on academic indicators and the remaining fourth is based on school quality and student success indicators.

For elementary and middle schools, the indicators are:

English language arts and math growth, worth 25% each.

English language arts and math proficiency, worth 7.5% each.

Science proficiency, worth 5%.

English learners proficiency progress, worth 5%.

Chronic absenteeism, worth 20%.

Climate survey, worth 5%.

For high schools, the indicators are:

Graduation rate, worth 50%.

English language arts and math proficiency, worth 7.5% each.

Science proficiency, worth 5%.

English learners proficiency progress, worth 5%.

Chronic absenteeism, worth 10%.

Climate survey, worth 6.67%.

Ninth-graders on track to graduate, worth 8.33%.

English language arts and math growth and proficiency for elementary and middle schools are based on students results on the Illinois Assessment of Readiness, the states standardized test for grades three through eight administered every spring.

English language arts and math proficiency for high schools are based on students SAT results. The SAT is the only state-mandated test for high school students, with all juniors being required to take it.

Science proficiency is based on results on the Illinois Science Assessment, the states standardized test for grades five, eight and 11 also conducted in the spring.

Notably, 50% of elementary and middle schools index scores are based on academic growth, while proficiency is worth 20% total.

Proficiency measures whether students are meeting state standards. Growth measures whether students are making progress toward or beyond those standards. A student could therefore make growth but not meet proficiency.

According to the state board, proficiency strongly correlates with a students family income and education level, while growth is responsive to changes in classroom instruction.

Academic growth is not among the indicators for high schools because there is no way to measure it with only one required standardized test, the SAT for juniors.

From accountability indicators to summative designations

Here are the first four of five designations a school could receive, in order from highest- to lowest-performing:

Exemplary indicates that the school is in the top 10% statewide in terms of overall performance and has no underperforming student groups at or below the all students group of the lowest-performing 5% of schools. High schools with this designation must have a graduation rate higher than 67%.

Commendable indicates that the school is not in the top 10% but still has no underperforming student groups and a high school graduation rate higher than 67%.

Targeted support indicates that the school has one or more underperforming student groups.

Comprehensive support indicates that the school is in the bottom 5% of Title I-eligible schools statewide in terms of overall performance. All high schools with a graduation rate at or below 67% receive this designation.

Schools receiving the targeted or comprehensive support designations for the first time enter into school improvement status and a four-year cycle of school improvement. This cycle includes assistance from the state board and a four-year school improvement grant through Title I, the federal grant program that flows through states to help school districts serving students from low-income families.

The first year of the cycle requires a school to conduct a needs assessment and develop an improvement plan, which is then implemented in the three remaining years.

The 2022-23 school year was the first that any school ended a school improvement cycle since the state started issuing summative designations in 2018. Schools previously designated as targeted support in 2018 but have not shown improvement for one or more of the same student groups will be escalated to comprehensive support this year and enter another four-year school improvement cycle. Schools that were previously designated as comprehensive support but have not shown improvement will be escalated to a new, fifth designation called intensive support and subject to more rigorous state involvement.

Schools that were previously designated as targeted or comprehensive support in 2018 but receive an exemplary or commendable designation this year will exit school improvement status.

Due to the post-pandemic uncertainties, schools designated for the first time as targeted or comprehensive support in 2022 will have the opportunity to exit from the school improvement status early. To do so, they must receive an exemplary or commendable designation on this years report card and have assessment participation rates at or higher than 95%.

This year, the following metro-east schools are eligible for early exit, according to the state board: Granite City High School (Granite City 9), Gilson Brown Elem School and West Elementary School (Alton 11), Whiteside Middle School (Whiteside 115), Union Elementary School (Belleville 118), Cahokia High School and Estelle Sauget School of Choice (Cahokia 187), Lovejoy Elementary School (Brooklyn 188) and East St. Louis Senior High School (East St. Louis 189).
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Ted Cruz , R-Texas, and Rep. Sam Graves, R-Mo., are leading a bicameral effort opposing the Biden administration's action last month prohibiting companies from transporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) via rail.

Cruz, the ranking member of the Senate Commerce Committee, and Graves, chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, penned a letter Wednesday co-signed by 23 fellow GOP lawmakers to Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) Deputy Administrator Tristan Brown, expressing concern with her agency's actions.

"This suspension, which is the latest attack in the Biden administrations war on American energy, calls into question PHMSAs commitment to its safety mission, PHMSAs role in promoting the administrations extreme green policies, and whether PHMSA will ever reasonably allow for the movement of LNG by rail," the lawmakers wrote to Brown.

"We ask you to reverse this misstep or, at a minimum, ensure rules going forward focus on PHMSAs safety mission and strongly consider cost-benefit analysis."

OFFSHORE OIL AND GAS PERMITTING PLUMMETS TO 2-DECADE LOW UNDER BIDEN

Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz, R-Texas, left, and House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Sam Graves, R-Mo., right, are pressing the Biden administration over its rule prohibiting companies from transporting liquefied natural gas via rail.

On Sept. 1, PHMSA, a Transportation Department agency, issued a federal rule suspending a 2020 authorization of LNG transportation in rail tank cars granted under the Trump administration. The rule will remain in effect until either a permanent rule regarding LNG rail tank car transportation is proposed and finalized  a process that may take several months  or June 30, 2025.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

MANCHIN, OTHERS TORCH BIDEN FOR BANNING OIL DRILLING ACROSS MILLIONS OF ACRES: 'ASSAULT ON OUR ECONOMY'

In their letter, the 25 Republicans argued PHMSA is primarily a safety agency, not an environmental agency, and that LNG transportation by rail has been proven safe and reliable. And they pointed to PHMSA's own data showing the movement of hazardous materials by highway is inherently less safe for the public.

They further stated the rule was part of a broader attack on domestic fossil fuel production that "willfully ignores the attendant harms to consumers and national security."

"This effort comes from the highest level of the administration, as President Biden specifically targeted PHMSAs LNG by rail rule through an alarmist, anti-fossil fuel executive order purporting 'to Tackle the Climate Crisis.' After President Biden explicitly targeted the LNG by rail rule, PHMSA issued a proposal to suspend the LNG by rail rule later that year," the letter adds.

The Republican lawmakers wrote in their letter that the rule blocking rail transportation of LNG was part of the Biden administration's broader attacks on fossil fuel production.

And the lawmakers said PHMSA's suggestion that the rule is temporary is a "smokescreen for intended permanent deterrence" of LNG rail transportation.

"Perversely, PHMSAs participation in an all-out effort against American energy production works against the goal it purports to serve," the lawmakers wrote. "PHMSA declares that the suspension 'avoid[s] potential risks to public health and safety or environmental consequences (to include direct and indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions).'

INTERNAL EMAILS SHOW BIDEN OFFICIALS OPENLY DISAGREED WITH ADMIN'S FOSSIL FUEL POLICIES

"In reality, the United States has led the world in reducing carbon emissions since peaking in 2007, largely because of Americas development and use of affordable and clean natural gas," the Republicans added. "Greater transportation of LNG by rail would give Americans an affordable and environmentally responsible option to meet their energy needs. Suspension of the LNG by rail rule is mere virtue signaling, not progress in reducing emissions."

PHMSA said its Sept. 1 rule provides sufficient time to complete ongoing testing and evaluation efforts regarding LNG rail transportation and allows development of mitigation measures for such transportation.

The Transportation Department's move rescinds a Trump-era rule allowing LNG transportation on railways, a move that was supported by the rail industry.

"Advancing rail safety measures that are based on the best available science and testing is crucial to keeping communities safe," Brown told Fox News Digital in a statement last month.

"This suspension will give time for PHMSA, in conjunction with the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering as well as its Canadian regulator counterparts, to complete critical research on transporting cryogenic liquids like LNG (and hydrogen) by rail more safely. This research is expected to conclude in the next year or so and will inform future federal safety regulations from PHMSA and the FRA."

INSPECTOR GENERAL WARNS BIDEN ADMIN'S $400 BILLION GREEN ENERGY LOAN PROGRAM IS RIPE FOR ABUSE

The move came after the Sierra Club and several other environmental organizations, like Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council and Food & Water Watch, argued that allowing LNG transportation could be hazardous to communities. The groups have said LNG is highly flammable and vulnerable to devastating explosions which could destroy communities railroads cut through.

Former Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao (2017-2021)

Democratic lawmakers, led by Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, D-Pa., additionally wrote to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg earlier this year, asking for a permanent ban on LNG transportation via rail and pointed to safety risks cited by environmental groups.

In June 2020, the Trump administration announced it had finalized a rule allowing the rail shipment of LNG. Former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said the agency had put new safeguards in place to prevent dangerous accidents.

The rule was challenged in court by environmental groups but received support from Republicans and the rail industry, which said it was committed to freight rail transportation safety .

"The extended hold of the rule for transporting LNG by rail is disappointing," Railway Supply Institute President Patty Long said last month. "Transporting LNG has a proven safety record, and with our country continuing to face rising energy prices, we should be incentivizing critical infrastructure that can provide additional capacity to the U.S.

"We should not have to rely on foreign sources of LNG to meet demand in certain parts of the country."





Original article source: 25 Republicans unleash effort opposing Biden admin's crackdown on fossil fuel transportation
Twenty-seven people are dead and four people are missing after Hurricane Otis made landfall in Acapulco, Mexico, as a Category 5 storm early Wednesday, the mayor of the resort city said Thursday at a news conference.

In addition, damage to Acapulco's General Hospital forced 200 patients to be transferred to other medical facilities, Rosa Icela Rodriguez, Mexico's secretary of security and citizen protection, told reporters. The hospital will be operating as normal within 24 hours, she added.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the deaths of 27 people are what hurts the most and offered condolences to their families.

He said that while the city was prepared for the storm, it was "exceptional" and "unexpected."

Hurricane Otis Lashes Mexico After Landfall Near Acapulco (Alejandro Cegarra / Bloomberg via Getty Images)

The storm dumped rain and brought heavy winds to the Mexican city, making it the strongest storm to hit the city in decades.

The hurricane triggered countless landslides and overflew Rio Papagayo, one of the main rivers in Acapulco.

"We didn't have time to take out any of our belongings," Anahi Patricia Nava, who lives near the river, told Noticias Telemundo. "There were several damages to the houses in this community."

In Venta Vieja, a nearby community, Carmelo Neri spent seven hours walking through debris that was blocking a main road in Acapulco. He was hoping to get to the other side and find out whether his wife was OK.

"I felt fear and uncertainty," Neri told Noticias Telemundo. "Hopefully they are all well."

Otis began as a tropical depression at 9 a.m. Sunday, Rodriguez told reporters Thursday, but spiraled into a catastrophic storm days later.

Rodriguez said Obrador was personally leading efforts in the disaster zones Wednesday alongside other officials.

Rescue efforts continue, Acapulco's mayor said, adding that roads are reopening with new routes and that some cellphone towers are back up.

An overturned truck after the passage of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, Mexico, on October 25, 2023. (Francisco Robles / AFP - Getty Images)

Obrador said that communications in the city are still sparse but that he is working to transmit a recorded message to residents. More than 1,000 workers are working to lay lines to restore electrical service.

Despite the efforts, there were people like Evangelina Rodriguez, who has not been able to get in touch with her mother and other relatives in her native Acapulco.

Evangelina Rodriguez, who lives in Houston, said she hasn't heard from her diabetic mother since Otis made landfall.

"I have tried to reach out to them by calling them, through WhatsApp and Messenger, and nothing," she told Noticias Telemundo.

The mayor also said that 80% of hotels in the port have been affected by Otis and that authorities are working to evacuate those who want to get out for free.

Officials expect to release the names of the 27 victims  all from Acapulco  Thursday. Three of the missing are secretaries in the nNavy, officials said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  A Buffalo Sewer Authority employee was killed and two others were taken to the hospital after a shooting Thursday morning on I-190 in Buffalo, New York.

The victims were shot while inside a Sewer Authority truck. Eight bullet holes were seen in the city vehicle, including shots that went through the front windshield and side window.

One of the shooting victims taken to the hospital was listed in critical condition while the other was stable.

Police said Thursday afternoon that they did not have the suspect in custody, but believe this was an isolated incident and there was no further threat to the public.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said the three victims were on the clock at the time of the shooting.

Its a tragedy that three people went to work, were working, did their jobs and their lives are altered forever, and one had their life taken, Brown said.

The members of the sewer authority are clearly very emotional, very shaken, in pain, Brown continued. There were tears.

The shots were allegedly fired from a late model, dark colored Jeep Grand Cherokee around 11:11 a.m., said New York State Police Major Eugene Staniszewski.

We have several leads but, currently, we do not have a motive of the shooting, Staniszewski said. This is believed to be an isolated incident and we have no information that there is a threat ongoing to the community.

As a result of the shooting, the southbound lanes of I-190 were shut down for hours. The lanes reopened around before 4 p.m.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said her administration has been in contact with local officials regarding the incident, and she directed the New York State Police and the Thruway Authority to provide any assistance necessary as the investigation continues.

This is the second incident of shots being fired on I-190 in the past month. In late September, police said someone in a dark sedan traveling northbound on I-190 allegedly fired shots in the area two miles north of Thursdays incident. No injuries were reported from the September incident.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
The ex-wife of an Erie man took their 8-year-old son to California in June 1992.

An Erie County judge awarded the boy's father primary custody the following month, and in August 1992 the boy was expected to return to Erie, according to court records and a police report.

The boy, now approaching his 40th birthday, never returned.

The mother, Anna M. Busby, moved to Mexico with her son, Joseph Dolak. In doing so, she violated a court custody order that she said was unjust. She alleged her son was in danger of abuse from a relative and that she had to protect him, according to reports in the Erie Times-News at the time.

In 1999, Erie police charged Busby, now 65, with third-degree felony counts of interference with the custody of a child and concealment of the whereabouts of a child.

More than 30 years after her son went to California, Busby has returned to Erie to face the charges.

Busby, whose latest address is listed in court records as McKees Rocks, near Pittsburgh, turned herself in on Oct. 17. She was arraigned on the charges by Erie 1st Ward District Judge Sue Mack, who set bond at 10% of $10,000. Busby's $1,000 bail was posted that day, according to court records.

Busby is tentatively scheduled to appear before Erie 3rd Ward District Judge Tom Carney for her preliminary hearing on Nov. 9.

Busby could not be reached for comment. Erie lawyer Gene Placidi, who is representing Busby, declined to comment.

Erie County District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz declined to comment on the case at this time.

A missing child and a court fight

Erie police, in a criminal complaint filed in July 1999, accused Busby of taking her son, Joseph Dolak who was 15 at the time the complaint was filed, from the custody of the boy's father, Mark Dolak, now 67.

Mark Dolak was awarded custody of Joseph Dolak in an Erie County Court of Common Pleas order entered on July 31, 1992. An additional decree entered in August 1992 ordered Busby to return the boy to his father, according to information in the complaint.

The detective who filed the charges wrote that, upon final determination of custody being awarded to Dolak, it was learned that Busby, who had been living in California with the boy, left the area with no forwarding information and made no contact. Police then learned that Busby and the boy were living in Mexico, according to the complaint.

The detective wrote in the affidavit filed with Busby's criminal complaint that, on Nov. 1, 1991, an Erie County judge found that Busby presented a risk of flight with a minor child and suspended her partial custody. On July 31, 1992, the court awarded Mark Dolak physical custody of Joseph Dolak, and in August 1992 the court ordered Busby to return the child to Mark Dolak, according to information in the affidavit.

Court records concerning the custody matter were sealed in Erie County. But according to unsealed court records in California, Busby's allegations that her son was in danger in her ex-husband's house originated in 1989, when the boy told his mother that a relative about his age touched him inappropriately while the boy was visiting his father, the Erie Times-News reported in a June 2002 story.

The Erie County Office of Children and Youth investigated the suspected abuse and determined the allegations unfounded, according to the California court records cited in the story. An Erie County judge agreed with the finding in an order awarding Mark Dolak primary custody of his son in July 1992, the Times-News reported.

The San Diego Department of Social Services launched an investigation into the sexual assault allegations in August 1992, and San Diego Juvenile Court awarded Busby physical custody of her son, according to court records cited in the June 2002 Times-News story. That ruling was appealed, and in October 1993 the Superior Court of San Diego County ruled that jurisdiction over the custody issue rested in Erie County, where Mark Dolak was awarded primary custody, according to the Times-News story.

Busby lost on appeal, and at some point after that she and her son went to Mexico. In the spring of 1998, Mark Dolak received court documentation from Mexico that confirmed his son was in Mexico, at an address in Puerto Vallarta, the detective who filed the charges against Busby wrote in the criminal complaint.

After receiving court case records from California, an Erie County judge in May 1998 amended the 1992 custody order to grant Mark Dolak full custody of his son, according to information in the criminal complaint. Busby was found in contempt of the court order, and a warrant was issued for her arrest for violating the July 1992 custody order, the detective wrote.

Mark Dolak applied to have Mexico return his son, but the application failed, the Times-News reported in June 2002. According to the story, the FBI was able to confirm Busby's address in Mexico, but when the FBI told Mexican officials of the address and the extradition request in 1999, they responded by renewing Busby's work visa, refused to take Busby into custody and did not assist and serving the warrants.

Erie police obtained an arrest warrant for Busby on July 5, 1999. The FBI obtained an arrest warrant days later.

The FBI is no longer involved in the case in light of Busby turning herself in. The U.S. Attorney's Office in Erie asked a judge on Oct. 18 to dismiss the federal arrest warrant against Busby.

Another court fight, as son sues his father

The Dolak case gained national attention. The news program "Dateline NBC" devoted an episode to the saga in March 2003.

Also in early 2003, Joseph Dolak left Mexico for McKees Rocks, where he was living with relatives, according to another Erie Times-News report.

After he returned to the United States, Joseph Dolak sued his father and others in U.S. District Court in Erie in October 2003. Joseph Dolak, representing himself, claimed his father and Erie County officials violated his constitutional rights by exposing him to abuse.

"I am seeking justice," Joseph Dolak told the Erie Times-News in an interview after he filed the suit.

In the same interview, he told the Erie Times-News that he made up some of the abuse allegations in his custody case, though he said he stood by his claim that the custody order put him at risk.

Joseph Dolak also said he and his relatives considered having his mother returned to the United States. He said then he had no idea when she might come back.

"In my eyes, what she did was right," Joseph Dolak said in the 2003 interview. "She had no other choice.'"

A judge dismissed Joseph Dolak's lawsuit in late 2004. The judge found the suit's constitutional claims lacked merit, were filed too late or ran afoul of jurisdictional or immunity rules. The dismissal meant that Mark Dolak and Joseph Dolak never met in court during the litigation.

Mark Dolak told the Erie Times-News in early 2005 that he had to spend $4,000 to defend himself against the suit. He reiterated his position that he had done nothing wrong  and he said that, eventually, he wanted to see his son again.

"Every day that is an issue in my life," Mark Dolak said at the time. "This is the only thing that keeps me going. God has a purpose for everyone in life. And even though this hurts real bad, you have to let the purpose work."

Staff writer Ed Palattella contributed to this report.

Contact Tim Hahn at thahn@timesnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @ETNhahn.

This article originally appeared on Erie Times-News: Woman returns to Erie to face counts in 31-year-old child custody case
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco Police Department say the 4-year-old girl who was kidnapped by a relative this week has been safely located.

Police posted to social media on Wednesday that the suspect, her 8-year-old son, and 4-year-old Fatima, were all located on the 1500 block of Lombard Street. They all appeared to be in good physical health, according to police.

Officials said Enas Birwani, 30, was arrested and is facing felony charges of kidnapping and child endangerment.

Police said Birwani took the little girl without her father's knowledge or consent early Tuesday morning. Officers responded to the 1100 block of 7th Street on the reports of a possible kidnapping. The girl was last seen near the 600 block of Eddy Street in the Tenderloin. Birwani was accompanies by her 8-year-old son during the kidnapping.

SEE ALSO: Stolen U-Haul truck with puppet show gear found abandoned in Richmond

 JUVENILE LOCATED 



Officers located the 4 yo. victim, the suspect, and the suspects 8 yo. son on the 1500 block of Lombard St. All appeared to be in good physical health. Investigators arrested Enas Birawi on felony charges of kidnapping and child endangerment.  San Francisco Police (@SFPD) October 25, 2023
Flight prices are increasing as the holiday travel season approaches.

Flight expert Gilbert Ott shared four tips for saving money on airfare during the holidays.

Consider one-way tickets, know the market, and use your rewards points, he said.

Flight prices are only getting higher as the holiday season approaches. And Gilbert Ott is here to save budget travelers who are scrambling to book the cheapest airfare.

Ott flies more than 200,000 miles a year and has been blogging about flying for the last decade. Ott's blog, called God Save the Points, covers everything from airline news and flight reviews to travel tips and money-saving hacks, such as how to best use credit-card points.

He recently gave Insider four tips for scoring the lowest prices on airfare during holiday travel, from knowing the market to using your points.

Know the market

It's easy to figure out what a flight on your route typically costs with free online tools.

"Google Flights gives you a heat index of prices from low to high in a color-coded grid of green to red with orange in between," he said, adding that he also recommends setting pricing alerts on Google Flights and Kayak a year in advance of when you plan to travel.

Look at prices in calendar mode

Google Flights in calendar mode. Google Flights

In general, Ott said the best fares for domestic travel are found somewhere between 30 to 60 days before travel, but holidays can be less predictable.

When booking your flights, Ott recommended using the calendar view in Google Flights to see what the prices are throughout the month. If the cheapest days don't fit into your itinerary, see if there are any ways you can adjust. Even a morning flight on the holiday itself may not be so bad.

"You can usually still make it there by the meal, and you'll have something fresh to talk about because you just got off of the plane," he said.

Consider alternative routes

Ott also recommended checking prices for two one-way tickets, as they may be cheaper than a round-trip flight.

If you aren't traveling to a hub city where most airlines operate, Ott said tickets may be more expensive. Instead, consider flying into the nearest hub city and driving the rest of the way to your destination.

Use points

To save big on flights, Ott's best tip is to use rewards points from airlines or credit-card companies. He recommended taking a look at your rewards programs to see what you're eligible for. Sites like Point.Me offer free trial searches to find out how much your points are worth, he said.

Ott told Insider he personally likes to use Chase Ultimate Rewards points to book flights. He said when you book through Chase's travel portal, you get 1.25 cents per point with the Sapphire Preferred card, while Sapphire Reserve points are worth 1.5 cents each.

"I love this because when there's a fare sale, like $1,500 round-trip business class to Europe, I can pay 100,000 Chase points and get that ticket," he said.

Ott added that he also appreciates airline rewards programs with good value, like the British Airways Executive Club, which he said has some of the widest availability with points across airlines.

"I think there's always been this hidden anxiety around points," he added. "People think it's too complicated. But I think using points has never been easier."

Read the original article on Insider
There is, finally, a Speaker.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) ascended to the role Wednesday, three weeks and one day after eight GOP House members ignited chaos by ousting Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.).

Johnson got the unanimous support of his colleagues on the House floor, an achievement that proved impossible for Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.).

Johnson is a staunch social conservative, as well as a strong ally of former President Trump. Johnson aided Trumps quest to overturn the 2020 election result.

Johnson has his hands on the gavel, but there are plenty of challenges ahead.

Can he unify his conference?

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.)

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) addresses reporters during a press event on the House steps after his election to Speakership on Wednesday October 25, 2023.

House Republicans have burned through most of October with their self-inflicted Speakership debacle.

It has produced moments when tempers burned red-hot.

During one meeting, Rep. Mike Bost (R-Ill.) was widely reported to have almost lunged in frustration at Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.), who led the move to oust McCarthy.

When Jordan was seeking the Speakership, Republican dissenters openly accused his allies of inciting threats against them.

Ill-feeling was rampant along other fault lines, too, including supporters of Scalise, who were furious at what they perceived to be a lack of support from Jordan loyalists.

Johnson at least has the moral authority that comes from his resounding win.

The exhaustion felt across the GOP conference will also help him, lowering the appetite for any new internecine drama.

Still, the wounds from the past few weeks are deep. Johnson faces a tough job in trying to bind them up.

Can he keep the government open?

The U.S. Capitol is seen behind a fountain on Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

The next deadline for a government shutdown is looming. And the time burnt off the clock by the Speaker chaos could prove critical.

The government will shut down if a deal is not reached by Nov. 17.

But the omens are hardly promising for reaching an agreement.

Johnsons predecessor, McCarthy, was doomed by his decision to approve a stopgap deal that leaned heavily on Democratic support.

Top Stories from The Hill

Now, Johnson faces the task of threading a similarly fine needle.

Republicans want spending cuts and increased funding for border security, but the Democratic majority in the Senate is sure to balk at such demands unless there are substantial sweeteners.

The road ahead is unclear. A politically toxic shutdown is very plausible.

Dealing with Ukraine

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., talks with Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., in the House chamber in Washington, Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

The war in Ukraine is now 20 months old, with no end in sight.

American popular support for aiding Kyiv in its efforts to repel the invasion masterminded by Russian President Vladimir Putin has eroded but not collapsed.

The issue has also become increasingly partisan, with Republican voters  and GOP elected officials, especially on the hard right of the party  growing increasingly skeptical.

In an Economist/YouGov poll published Wednesday, a plurality of Republican voters, 38 percent, wanted the U.S. to decrease aid to Ukraine, while only 11 percent of Democrats felt the same way.

Thirty-four percent of Republicans wanted to keep aid at its current level, and 15 percent of GOP voters wanted that aid increased.

The issue has roiled the Republican conference, with figures such as Gaetz and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) being especially vociferous in their opposition.

Johnson himself has tempered his earlier support for backing Ukraine. He voted against two appropriations bills that provided aid to the eastern European nation and has suggested the Ukrainian government needs to be more transparent about how it is using the money.

The legislative politics of the issue are complicated, however. President Biden has hitched together aid for Ukraine and aid for Israel, as well as other causes, in a $106 billion supplemental request.

Johnson, like most members of both parties, is a strong advocate of additional aid to Israel in the wake of the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas in which around 1,400 Israelis were killed.

How does he deal with former President Trump?

Former President Donald Trump speaks during a break in his civil business fraud trial at New York Supreme Court, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in New York. The judge in Donald Trumps civil fraud trial has fined the former president $10,000. The judge says Trump violated a limited gag order barring personal attacks on court staffers.(AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

In one sense, Johnson owes his Speakership to Trump.

On Tuesday, Emmer had won the internal GOP conference vote to become the partys nominee for Speaker. But he also encountered resistance from roughly two dozen House members who are staunch supporters of the former president.

As Emmer tried to win them over, Trump landed on Truth Social with a post blasting the majority whip as a globalist RINO who was out of touch with the GOP base. The writing was on the wall after that.

Trump was more welcoming to Johnson, as expected.

In the tumultuous period after the 2020 election, Johnson was a key proponent of an amicus brief that would have invalidated the election results in four states.

Johnson also amplified Trumps false claims of election fraud. And he duly voted, even in the wake of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, to object to election results.

Those actions will endear him to the former president and the party base.

But they also provide an inviting target for Democrats seeking to make the case the Speaker and his party are extremists.

Johnsons close bond with Trump will also prove complicated if, as is likely, the former president makes electorally unhelpful interventions.

Keeping the House majority

Speaker-elect Mike Johnson (R-La.)

Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) gives Speaker-elect Mike Johnson (R-La.) the gavel following Johnsons election in the House Chamber on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

Johnson has the support of all his colleagues for now, but his hold on the gavel is tenuous because of the slimness of the GOP majority.

There are 221 Republicans, 212 Democrats and two vacant seats in the House.

The 18 Republicans who represent districts carried by President Biden in 2020 will be the top Democratic targets in 2024, when Trump looks likely to top the GOP ticket.

Johnson needs to find a way to ease their passage to reelection while keeping the support of a party that remains in thrall to Trump.

Its far from an easy task.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Police are investigating after five people were found shot dead inside a residence in North Carolina.

The bodies were reported to police just after midnight on Thursday in Clinton, North Carolina, according to a news release from the Sampson County Sheriff's Office. The 911 caller said they had spoken to one of the people who was killed at around 11:00 p.m. on Wednesday. The caller, who has not been identified, said they found the bodies because they stopped by the house on their way home, according to the news release.

The sheriff's office said that the deceased included one woman and four men. All had gunshot wounds. The five people were "of different races and ethnicities" and "ranged in age" from their 30s to their 80s, the sheriff's office said. It's not yet confirmed how the people are connected. The identities of the victims are being withheld until family members are notified, the sheriff's office said.

An investigator enters the home in Sampson County, North Carolina where five people were found dead overnight. / Credit: WNCN

A person of interest has not been identified, according to the news release.

Investigators from the sheriff's office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation are "processing the crime scene and following up on potential leads" in the case, the news release said.

According to the news release, the deaths are "not believed to be connected" to two other incidents that took place in the area overnight. At around 1:40 a.m., an assault suspect was shot and killed by police after pointing a gun at officers responding to a disturbance call, according to CBS News affiliate WNCN. At 6:45 a.m., police were called to another home in the county, where a man was found dead with traumatic injuries consistent with an edged weapon, according to WNCN.

"This morning has definitely been an unusual morning in Sampson County," Eric Pope, the Sampson County Sheriff's Office public information officer, told WNCN. "This is not normal for our community, it's not normal for any community, and it should shock the conscience."

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

Speaker Mike Johnson responds to Maine shootings: "A dark time in America"

Vice President Harris says "it does not have to be this way" after Maine shootings
Five people were found dead after a shooting in a North Carolina home early Thursday morning, WTVD reports.

Sheriffs deputies said they made the discovery shortly after midnight. The Sampson County sheriff told WTVD four men and a woman, ages 30 to 80, were killed.

ALSO READ: 1 killed, 2 others hurt in north Charlotte shooting, CMPD says

The sheriff said someone who knows the homeowner had called 911.

The home is outside of the town of Clinton, which is 35 miles east of Fayetteville.

Deputies havent shared how the victims are connected and they havent released information on suspects.

Investigators told WTVD the shooting is not connected to two other shootings in the county within hours.

(WATCH BELOW: Man accused of killing Allisha Watts wont face death penalty; given $1M bond)
The Pinhead character from Clive Barker's "Hellraiser" films presents a bust of himself to Planet Hollywood in 1992 in New York City, New York. (Photo by Catherine McGann/Getty Images)

Every veteran whos ever watched a scary film has probably devised a way to kill the main horror movie villain almost as soon as the first teenager is killed in the movie. It doesnt matter if the killer is a ghost, a demon or just a human with a supernatural killing ability. After all, like Dutch says in the movie Predator: If it bleeds, we can kill it. With that spirit of Schwarzenegger in mind this spooky season, lets look at a few horror movie villains and devise a way the U.S. military could have taken down these seemingly unstoppable murder ghosts before they killed any more teenagers.

Here are 5 military solutions to horror movie villains

Freddy Kruger

As many of us might know, Freddy Kruger is the ghost of a child killer who attacks teenagers in their dream worlds so he can kill them in the real world. Being continually respawned by dream demons makes Freddy difficult to kill, but not impossible. The intel says Freddy gets more power from the fear of his victims and can be killed if pulled into the real world.

The trick to killing Freddy is special operations. With the kind of ice flowing through the blood of special operators, Freddy wont get any special power advantages. A team of CIA Special Activities Center operatives could do a simple snatch and grab to pull Freddy into the real world. Once hes vulnerable, they would be able to neutralize him in no time.

Man dressed as Freddy Krueger from "A Nightmare on Elm Street" during the first day of Comic Con at Javits Center on October 07, 2021 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images)

Imhotep

Also known as The Mummy, Imhotep was a powerful Egyptian priest who was accidentally revived thousands of years after his death. But with his resurrection, he gets all kinds of powers, including immortality, which is a significant barrier to killing him for good. It turns out, all you have to do is destroy the spell that grants him immortality and then kill him.

In the 1932 original film, The Mummy, all that was involved was burning the scroll that kept him alive before turning him into dust. This would easily be accomplished with a GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb on his location. If he could survive the first one because the spell hadnt been destroyed, a second GBU-43/B would do the trick.

The 1999 remake forced the protagonists to read from the Book of Amun-Ra to strip him of immortality then kill him. Issuing photocopies of the passage from the book to a number of special operators would ensure the passage could be read in his presence before taking him down with a standard Mozambique drill.

1932: Boris Karloff (1887 - 1969) plays the evil mummy encased in his sarcophagus in the film 'The Mummy', (aka 'Cagliostro', 'Im-Ho-Tep' or 'King of the Dead). The film was directed by Karl Freund for Universal Studios. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Leatherface

In the original Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie released in 1974, Leatherface was just a guy. He was a psychotic guy, but just a human. Dennis Hopper killed him with a chainsaw in the sequel. The U.S. military is more than equipped to deal with murderers who are human. In the 2022 remake, he becomes more of a spectral character, continuing with a murder spree after being shot and drowned. The object here is to reduce his ability to continue killing.

The house where Leatherface first appears in the 2022 remake is made of wood, which makes it a soft target for thermite incendiary bombs. Thermite delivered by artillery or aerial bombing (like those used in World War II) would reduce the house and anyone inside to ashes.

Actors Gunnar Hansen (front left) as Leatherface, Jim Siedow (front right) as Old Man, John Dugan (back right) as Grandfather and Edwin Neal (back left) as Hitchhiker in a publicity shot for the slasher film 'The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, 1974. (Photo by Silver Screen Collection/Getty Images)

Michael Myers

You cant stab or shoot the Halloween villain to death, so any trauma-related plans likely wont be enough to take down Michael Myers. He also has supernatural strength, so trying to engage him in combat likely wont end well. Myers also survives an ether explosion, so theres no bombing solution here, either. Busta Rhymes even electrocutes him and it still doesnt take Myers down.

What can reliably be done about Michael Myers is stopping him, even if it doesnt kill him. Myers spent ten years in a coma during the series and has been stunned a number of times for long periods. Hes also not immune to chemical injections. The solution to Michael Myers is to stun him with tranquilizer guns long enough to get him to a black site where he can be contained and studied.

Actor Tony Moran, as masked killer Michael Myers, wields a knife in a still from the horror film, 'Halloween,' directed by John Carpenter, 1978. (Photo by Fotos International/Courtesy of Getty Images)

Pinhead

As far as horror movie villains, this one might be difficult for a military solution, considering Pinhead, the antagonist of the Hellraiser franchise, is a former British officer in World War I , a time when the British Army wasnt above using war crime-level tactics to achieve victory. He can be hurt, but actually likes to be physically hurt. Furthermore, he has mystical chains that can bind and kill troops in a one-on-one engagement and inherently knows his enemies' weaknesses. Once he captures a prisoner, he can turn them to his side.

Using full-body mesh armor can negate Pinheads hooks and prevent your troops from being taken prisoner. Since theres no real way to kill Pinhead, the best one could hope for is restraining him. Since much of his body is filled with metal, the best way would be the use of a powerful electromagnet. Like Myers, he can be restrained or studied until he can be sent back into the puzzle from whence he came. Once in the puzzle, he is no longer a threat.
One of the first batches of modern cement was cooked up in a kitchen. In 1824, the British bricklayer Joseph Aspdin began experimenting with clay and limestone, mixing the ingredients with water and heating them in a furnace. After grinding the fusion into a fine powder and adding more water, he found hed created a particularly strong material.

He called it Portland cement, after a famous type of stone from Englands Isle of Portland.

Aspdins concoction and later iterations have since become an essential ingredient for making concrete  one of the worlds most widely produced materials. Every year, some 4.2 billion metric tons of Portland cement are made, serving to bind together sand, gravel, water and other components that form our concrete infrastructure.

Yet cement has a critical flaw: Its extremely carbon-intensive to make, contributing around 8 percent of human-caused carbon dioxide emissions every year. About 40 percent of cements emissions come from fossil-fueled kilns that can get hotter than molten lava. The other 60 percent comes from the chemical process of calcination. When limestone is heated, it breaks down into its constituent parts of calcium oxide and CO 2 , sending planet-warming gases into the atmosphere.

Startups and manufacturers are striving to develop new methods and formulas for making carbon-free cement. Many of these efforts are still early-stage and face major financial and technical hurdles to scaling up. Still, investors have recently poured hundreds of millions of dollars into these companies  reflecting the rising demand from construction firms and government agencies for lower-carbon concrete.

Here are six of the leading startups that are working to transform this foundational building block of modern society. (As a bonus, watch Canary Medias video on companies capturing carbon dioxide and injecting it into concrete blocks in New York City.)

1. Curbing the Portland cement in concrete

One way to reduce concretes massive carbon footprint is to reduce its reliance on Portland cement. Terra CO2 Technologies is doing just that by developing a supplementary cementing material (SCM) made from the worlds most abundant and commonly used minerals. The company plans to start construction next year in Texas on its first full-scale facility.

Major cement and concrete companies already use millions of tons of SCMs every year, both to reduce their concretes carbon footprint and to cost-effectively strengthen the material. But most SCMs today are made from fly ash from coal-fired power plants or slag from steel blast furnaces. As coal plants close and steel furnaces shutter, those materials are expected to become less readily available and more expensive to get.

Golden, Coloradobased Terra CO2 is developing a drop-in replacement for traditional SCMs using a variety of silicate rocks, including granite, basalt, alluvial sand and gravel, glacial flood gravel and clay-sand mixtures. The seven-year-old company estimates that every metric ton of cement replaced by these materials will result in 70 percent lower CO 2 emissions compared to pure Portland cement.

Silicate rock for the most part doesnt have any embodied CO 2 , Bill Yearsley, CEO of Terra CO2, recently told Canary Media. Limestone, on the other hand, is by weight about 50 percent embodied CO 2 . Virtually all of that carbon is released into the atmosphere when heated and processed into clinker, the precursor to Portland cement.

2. Standard cement, innovative new process

Brimstone is aiming to kick limestone out of cement altogether.

The Oakland, Californiabased startup has developed a new process to make industry-standard cement using basalt and other calcium-bearing silicate rocks, in lieu of limestone. These replacement rocks are rich in calcium oxide  a key ingredient in cement-making  but, crucially, they dont contain any carbon atoms.

Silicate minerals make up over 80 percent of the earths crust, said Brimstone CEO Cody Finke, who noted that the company's innovations lie in processing common rocks to produce both cement and SCMs.

We think it could lead to a lower-cost solution, which is essential for scaling globally on a reasonable timescale, he said.

Along with avoiding CO 2 from limestone, Brimstones approach has another potential climate benefit. Its cement-making process produces a magnesium compound as a byproduct, one that binds with carbon dioxide to permanently remove it from the atmosphere. Brimstone claims this step can make its process carbon-negative.

Brimstone is working to build its first pilot production plant in Nevada. Still, the four-year-old startup is likely years away from getting its cement to market. Beyond the difficulty of developing new technologies, emerging cement-makers also face the challenge of convincing regulators, standards-setters and construction workers that their products are safe to use.

To that point, Brimstone recently achieved an important industry milestone. In July, the company received third-party certification that says its Portland cement is structurally and chemically identical to conventional supplies  a key designation for a fledgling company looking to break into the risk-averse construction industry.

Any new cement formula that requires construction companies to alter tried-and-true methods could well be a deal-breaker, according to Finke. Thats why you need to make [Portland cement] in order to decarbonize quickly, he said.



3. Decarbonizing literal building blocks

Another cement-focused startup, CarbonBuilt, announced a key achievement of its own last month. The Los Angelesbased company said it had eliminated the use of Portland cement in its concrete blocks, drastically reducing the amount of embodied carbon associated with its products.

CarbonBuilts approach involves creating an alternative cement binder with calcium-rich waste materials from undisclosed industrial sources. To start, the company combines the ingredients with water and aggregates, which are then pressed into molds and placed inside a temperature-controlled chamber.

CarbonBuilt next flows CO 2 into the chamber, driving a chemical reaction that forms solid concrete. The waste materials are calibrated to react specifically with CO 2 curing to enable carbon removal, JJ Steeley, CarbonBuilts head of marketing and strategic partnerships, said in a recent interview.

The startup claims its novel technology can reduce overall CO 2 emissions from concrete-making by 70 to 100 percent.

CarbonBuilt spun out of UCLAs engineering school in 2019. In May, the company began commercial production of its sustainable concrete at a partner facility in Alabama, where an on-site biomass furnace captures and supplies CO 2 . The company says it now plans to produce its Portland-cement-free blocks at commercial volume in Alabama starting in 2024.

CarbonBuilt is also partnering with companies in Flagstaff, Arizona to combine its process with technology that removes CO 2 directly from the sky. In both locations, CarbonBuilt is mainly focusing on making masonry blocks. Because the blocks are cured with CO 2 in a chamber  not mixed and poured on-site  theyre ideally suited to serve as a carbon-removal mechanism, Steeley said.



4. Tossing out the thermal heat

Sublime Systems isnt just searching for lower-carbon ingredients. The Boston-based startup is developing an entirely different way of driving chemical reactions that turn minerals into cement  one that doesnt involve any fossil-fuel-burning, high-temperature kilns.

Sublime, which spun out of MIT in 2020, uses an electrochemical process instead of thermal heat. At the heart of its approach is an electrolyzer, which splits water to produce an acid and a base. A range of carbon-free rocks, minerals and industrial waste materials can be dissolved in the acid to extract calcium. The calcium is then reacted with the base, a step that creates calcium hydroxide, or lime.

Finally, the company blends the lime with silica  just as the ancient Romans once did  to produce what it calls Sublime cement. Once mixed with water, the cement hardens by forming calcium silicate hydrate, the same product that Portland cement makes. The entire process takes place at ambient temperatures; by replacing limestone inputs with alternative materials, Sublime says it can further reduce the emissions that typically occur when limestone decomposes in fiery-hot kilns.

Thats how we avoid the kiln entirely: by using electricity, Leah Ellis, Sublimes CEO, told Canary Media. Ellis and her co-founder Yet-Ming Chiang, a renowned material sciences professor at MIT, both focused on batteries before pivoting to low-carbon cement.

The company completed its first pilot plant in late 2022, which can produce as much as 100 metric tons of cement per year. Its also pursuing plans for a first commercial facility that can produce tens of thousands of tons of cement per year. In September, Sublime obtained a key industry designation that says its product meets certain performance-based standards for hydraulic cement.

Its a first-of-a-kind technology that we have to scale up, and thats going to be hard, Ellis said. You have to get to a certain size before youre even real to the cement or the concrete industry.



5. Fortera: Channeling coral reefs

As Sublime draws inspiration from ancient Rome, the startup Fortera is taking its cues from coral reefs.

The San Jose, Californiabased company uses a novel mineralization process to capture carbon dioxide from existing Portland cement facilities. To start, Fortera combines the lime and the CO 2 that emerge from the two ends of a limestone calcination kiln and dissolves them in a proprietary solvent. The end result is a form of calcium carbonate called vaterite.

Ryan Gilliam, CEO of Fortera, noted that vaterite exists in nature "only a fraction of a second before transitioning into minerals that form shells and corals. Fortera can manufacture vaterite at an industrial scale but still make it stable enough to sit on a shelf, he said.

Were going from an inert rock to a reactive carbonate that has valuable cementing properties, Gilliam added.

The companys fundamental technology comes from Calera, a Silicon Valley startup founded in 2007 that claimed it could mix seawater with carbon dioxide from coal plants to make carbon-negative cement. It was also quite controversial, with prominent scientists casting doubt on its promises. But Gilliam said Caleras patents have informed Forteras method of making vaterite.

This process also improves cement-making economics by recapturing the nearly half of the weight of the limestone that's lost as carbon dioxide. We effectively make double the product compared to traditional methods, he said.

Forteras first demonstration project, at a CalPortland cement plant in Redding, California, will make its first commercial product in early 2024. The supplementary cementing material is designed to be blended into Portland cement at up to a 15 percent ratio, potentially lowering the products carbon footprint by up to 70 percent compared to standard cement on a ton-for-ton basis, he said.

Fortera can also make a zero-emissions cement product to completely replace Portland cement, he said  but that will require approval from cement standards bodies like ASTM before it can be used for structural cement.

Fortera told Axios in September that it is seeking project financing of more than $1 billion to install its technology in six to seven cement plants over the next five years. Thats a big jump from the $30 million Series B it raised in 2021. "Were putting the right people around the table from a strategic-partnership perspective, Gilliam said.



6. Turning living organisms into cement

Prometheus Materials is likewise looking to the seafloor to make its bio-concrete.

The Colorado-based startup is making novel cement using algae and biomineralization  a process that occurs when living organisms produce minerals to form sea shells, corals, starfish and more. The idea is that the company can biologically grow calcium carbonate instead of relying on quarried limestone thats heated in ultra-hot kilns.

Prometheus Materials was formed in 2021 out of a research project at the University of Colorado. Today, the spinouts pilot plant in Longmont produces microalgae in 1,350-liter tanks filled with simulated seawater and nutrients. LED lights surround the tanks to mimic sunlight, while Prometheus bubbles in air to feed carbon dioxide to the algae.

Next, the team harvests the algae, places it in separate tanks and, using its proprietary process, stimulates biomineralization. The resulting calcium carbonate is then dried into a powder and combined with other natural binders and aggregates to create bio-concrete products, including blocks, paving stones and panels.

The process can potentially eliminate 100 percent of the CO 2 emissions associated with making conventional concrete blocks, Loren Burnett, the companys CEO and co-founder, said in an interview.

Prometheus Materials plans to make its line of precast products commercially available in the first half of 2024. The company is also seeking to raise up to $35 million in venture funding to build a 35,000-square-foot factory. Eventually, the startup aims to license its bio-based technologies to established producers of cement and concrete.

Thats ultimately how well be able to impact CO 2 reduction on a global scale and in a large way, Burnett said.


The majority of Ukrainians  60%  are ready to postpone the acquisition of EU membership in time so that Ukraine can defend its interests during negotiations with the European Union.

Source: KIIS survey commissioned by the EU advisory mission; European Pravda.

At the same time, only 27% of Ukrainians prefer an accelerated pace of integration into the EU and support the approval of all laws and requirements of the European Union.

5% of respondents are against Ukraine's membership in the EU.

Respondents are quite moderate in their assessment of Ukraine's readiness to join the European Union. Thus, only 22% consider Ukraine fully ready, while 43% speak about the need for reforms. Another 25% consider Ukraine not ready at all.

77% of respondents say that it is important for them that Ukraine becomes a member of the EU. Of these, 51% say that this is very important for them.

At the same time, the share of those for whom it is important for Ukraine to become a member of the EU is decreasing from West to East  from 86% to 62%. Although in general, in all regions, membership in the European Union is considered important.

On Tuesday, 24 October, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the board of European commissioners who gathered in Brussels, emphasising that Ukraine has implemented all the recommendations of the European Commission and is ready to start EU accession negotiations.

Media reports that on 8 November, the European Commission is preparing to publish a positive assessment of Ukraine's progress in the reforms it must implement for further movement in the EU, but this assessment may contain additional conditions.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is likely to visit Ukraine, press reports. This visit may indicate that the assessment of Kyiv's progress in "candidate" reforms will be positive.

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Editorial Update 10/27: NYPD tow truck driver Stephanie Sharp facing charges after 7-year-old Kamari Hughes killed crossing street in Brooklyn

NEW YORK -- A 7-year-old boy was struck and killed by an NYPD tow truck while on his way to school with his mother Thursday in Brooklyn.

Police say the driver, 54-year-old Stephanie Sharp, has been charged with failure to yield to a pedestrian and failure to exercise due caution.

Surveillance video shows the boy, identified as Kamari Hughes, riding a scooter on a crosswalk at the intersection of North Portland and Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene. Witnesses watched in shock and then ran to help, but it was too late.

"I'm devastated. I was coming to get my baby's breakfast this morning and the tow truck hit that little boy. He had a crosswalk. He was coming through the crosswalk, he had the right of way, on a scooter," said Antwon Hayes.

CBS New York's Zinnia Maldonado was back on the scene Friday morning, where there were crossing guards helping direct traffic.

Watch Jennifer Bisram's report

The NYPD said initially that the driver stopped immediately at the scene, while witnesses said otherwise.

"She hit that little boy and kept going. I had to tell the housing workers to stop her, from her to keep going. The mother's screaming hysterically, 'They killed my baby!'" said Hayes.

Witnesses said the driver was on her cellphone, speeding and ran a red light.

"I think I was crying more than her, because to see devastation like that, she just kept screaming 'They killed my baby.' And it's unimaginable. I can't imagine my grandbaby that played with him every day in the park being here, laying down like that," said Tyrana Carter.

"Our heart goes out to the family of that young boy and his mother, his school, his teachers who were also on the scene, a very tough scene to be at this morning," said NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey.

Watch Doug Williams' report

Mayor Eric Adams said on social media Thursday night, "We will do whatever it takes to keep our streets safe."

"This is the 25th child to be killed on Mayor Adams' streets," Transportation Alternatives Executive Director Danny Harris said.

Harris says the Adams administration is behind schedule on street safety plans.

"Because of decision being made by this administration that are withholding street safety projects, it means that beautiful child will never come home again," he said.

According to Transportation Alternatives, nine children under the age of 18 were killed in traffic violence this year in New York City, and this was the 103rd time a child died in a traffic crash since 2014.

"How do we make sure that we have more crossing guards across the city?" said New York City Council Member Crystal Hudson. "We have to hold the NYPD accountable the same way we expect to hold every other New Yorker accountable for obeying traffic laws."

Residents who spoke to CBS New York's Doug Williams said they've never seen crossing guards at the intersection, which they call dangerous.

"I'm just a parent in this area, but we've had so many conversations regarding safety for our students while they walk to school," Fort Greene resident Shawneke Pass said.

Balloons were released late Thursday afternoon in honor of Kamari, and throughout the evening, many Fort Greene residents stopped at the intersection to pay their respects by adding to a growing memorial.

"And you just think, what if you were walking your child to school and they're hit and killed?" New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said. "We need the community to remember what happened here today."

One woman we spoke to said she didn't witness what happened, but worse, her kids did. She took a moment to be at the memorial in honor of Kamari before returning home to put her kids to bed and talk to them about what they were forced to witness.

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

Maine shooting suspect may have been targeting ex-girlfriend, officials say

Retired U.S. general says Israel appears to be on cusp of Gaza invasion
Seven homicides in Topeka this year remain unsolved. Each of those victims were shot to death.

The Topeka Police Department late last week made a public plea on its Facebook page for information that will help it solve those cases.

"Help us spread the word," that post said.

Police asked residents to submit anonymous tips through Shawnee County Crime Stoppers or to email Topeka police investigators at telltpd@topeka.org.

Seven Topeka homicides from this year remain unsolved. Police recently put out a public plea seeking tips from the public about these killings.

What sets this year apart from others in terms of homicides?

The request for tips comes at a time when Topeka recently surpassed its previous all-time high by recording its 32nd homicide this year. The previous high was 30, recorded in 2017.

Twenty-four of this year's 32nd homicide victims were shot, according to police.

Here are the seven victims of homicides that remain unsolved, according to Rosie Nichols, public safety communications specialist for Topeka's city government.

Trevon Praylow

Trevon Praylow, 35, was found fatally shot early Monday morning in the 1600 block of S.W. Fillmore, Nichols said. Police put up yellow crime scene tape around the area of a house at 1605 S.W. Fillmore.

A second person was found at the scene suffering from gunshot wounds that weren't life-threatening, Nichols said.

Praylow survived in 2016 after being shot in the back, also in the 1600 block of S.W. Fillmore.

Jackson E. 'Jack' Danner

Jackson E. "Jack" Danner, 23, of Topeka, was found fatally shot shortly after 9:30 a.m. Oct. 15 in the 1600 block of S.W. 21st, Nichols said.

Danner was found lying in a front yard, she said.

The shooting scene was just south of Washburn University, in a block where all houses present are on the south side of the street.

Topeka police had yellow crime scene tape up earlier this month at the location were Damayah R. Calhoun, 17, was fatally shot in East Topeka. The case remains unsolved.

Damayah R. Calhoun

Damayah R. Calhoun, 17, of Topeka, was pronounced deceased after being dropped off shortly before 1:30 a.m. Oct. 13 at a Topeka hospital, said police Capt. Jerry Monasmith.

She had been fatally shot.

Investigators identified the crime scene as being in the 600 block of S.E. Lawrence, Nichols said.

Ra'Juan Spicer

Police were called just before 5:45 p.m. Oct. 11 to the 1200 block of S.W. Clay, Nichols said.

Shooting victim Ra'Juan Spicer, 18, of Topeka, was pronounced deceased at the scene, she said.

Alonzoe K. Smith

Two-month-old Alonzoe K. Smith was fatally shot July 14 at an apartment complex in the 1000 block of S.W. Mulvane, Nichols said.

A male relative being sought for questioning in the case was taken into custody outside Kansas on charges not related to Alonzoe's death, she said.

However, the Topeka Police Department's investigation of the death remains ongoing, she said.

Xavion E. Phannix

Police were called at 12:14 a.m. June 30 to the 2600 block of S.E. Gilmore Court, from which three people suffering from gunshot wounds were taken to a Topeka hospital, said police Lt. Donna Eubanks.

Two survived, she said.

But Xavion E. Phannix, 20, of Topeka, was pronounced dead at that hospital, Eubanks said.

Shawn A. Carter

Police were called shortly before 9 a.m. Jan. 8 to the 1300 block of S.E. Madison, where they found Shawn A. Carter, 45, Eubanks said.

Carter was pronounced dead at the scene, she said. He had been shot.

Carter's nickname was "Heavy," according to his Facebook page.

No arrests have also been made in these other 5 homicides in Topeka

The homicide death of Deaundreya D. Caraway, 38, who was found fatally shot March 26 in the 1500 block of S.E. Quincy, has been ruled a case of self-defense, Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Wednesday.

Nichols said police were "working on a case" to send to Kagay's office "for charging considerations" regarding the fatal shooting of Aaron P. Mathis Jr., 16, who died April 26 after being found April 7 in the 3500 block of S.W. Kerry Avenue.

Nichols said police were also awaiting rulings from Kagay's office as to whether charges will be filed relating to reports they sent him regarding:

 The death in March of Gregorio Castillo, 68, linked to an alleged "road rage" incident.

 The June 15 death of Anthony L. Marshall III, 30, who was shot in the 4100 block of S.W. Twilight Drive. That homicide may have been justifiable, Eubanks said in June.

 The Sept. 7 death of Hevair Loucious, 31, in the 3300 block of S.E. Emerson. Self-defense may have been involved in that death, Eubanks said.

Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: 7 Topeka homicides from 2023 are unsolved. No arrests made in 5 others
The campaign for a California rent control ballot measure has hundreds of thousands of letters calling for Gov. Gavin Newsom s support. But opponents say they represent a form of political advertising.

The Justice for Renters Coalition appeared at the Capitol Wednesday with hundreds of boxes filled with more than 732,000 letters pushing Newsom to back an AIDS Healthcare Foundation initiative that would expand cities ability to enact rent control.

The measure would repeal the 1995 Costa Hawkins Rental Housing Act, which prohibits local governments from limiting rent increases on apartments and single-family homes built after that year. It also says landlords cannot be barred from raising rents for new tenants.

The Foundation announced in late July that it had gathered enough signatures to be eligible for the November 2024 ballot. This marks the third time in four elections the Foundation has attempted to repeal Costa Hawkins.

Californians voted down similar initiatives in 2018 and 2020 after opposition campaigns heavily funded by real estate and landlord interest groups.

The California Apartment Association is opposing the latest ballot measure through an organization called Californians for Responsible Housing.

This measure would make rent even more expensive for those looking to find a place to live and push even more Californians into homelessness, said Nathan Click, a spokesman for the group.

Click also acts as a spokesman for Newsoms political campaigns.

Susan Shannon, policy director of Housing is a Human Right, addresses the media on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, as a coalition of California renters, advocates and social justice organizations displays the 732,000 signed letters in support of the Justice for Renters Act ballot measure at the state Capitol in Sacramento. The ballot measure would replace Californias statewide rent control law and give local communities the ability to regulate rents.

Letter signature controversy

On Thursday, demonstrators urging Newsom to back the ballot measure displayed their signed letters on the steps of the Capitol, alongside advocates holding signs that said The rent is still too damn high!

Susie Shannon, Justice for Renters campaign director, said the letters represent voters imploring the governor not to oppose the ballot measure.

Politico in April reported the letters are the product of a signature-gathering campaign conducted by the Foundation. The story said workers paid by the organization collected signatures for the letters at the same time they solicited voters to sign the ballot measure petition.

It is typical for organizations behind ballot initiatives to pay those who collect petition signatures, sometimes even per name.

However, the letters present a murkier ethical situation. The Politico story suggested the Foundation also paid workers to gather those signatures. This could mean they are a form of political advertising and should contain a disclosure with the Foundations name.

But Ged Kenslea, a Foundation spokesman, said workers were paid for petition signatures, but not for those on the letters. He said Foundation gatherers also collected letter signatures at community events around the state, not just during the petition campaign.

Kenslea said he does not think the letters need a disclosure because they are the product of community mobilizing.

Shannon called the oppositions messaging about the letters a distraction.

Why are they trying to diminish the voice of the voters? she asked.
Virginia Foxx wants you to shut your mouth  and your brain  unless it meets the narrow-minded standard she and other House Republicans gleefully demonstrated this week before settling on an anti-democratic House speaker who would ban abortion and same-sex marriage outright if given the chance.

Foxx, who represents North Carolina in Congress, wants you to be as ignorant and as unconcerned about the health of this democracy as she is. An outburst by Foxx this week continued an ugly streak of high-profile legislators from the Carolinas caught on camera proudly saying stupid or immoral things.

Issac Bailey

Tim Scott , the junior senator from South Carolina, took to the Republican primary debate stage and bizarrely suggested that Black people had it harder under Great Society programs than slavery. Lindsey Graham , the senior senator from South Carolina, took to Fox News and called for the wiping out of an entire people, a population of more than two million, half of whom are children.

I guess Foxx, who represents the 5th District of North Carolina, didnt want to be left out, wanted to prove she could look and sound as idiotic as the gentleman south of the Tar Heel border.

Mr. Johnson, you helped lead the effort to overturn the 2020 election results, ABC Newss Rachel Scott began asking Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana at a press conference during the GOPs seemingly never-ending debate about who would become the next Speaker of the House. Johnson was elected speaker on Wednesday.

Do you stand by Scott continued but was interrupted by an outburst of childish boos from people that voters inexplicably sent to Washington to guide the most-prosperous nation on Earth.

No! Shut up! Foxx shouted. Shut up!

This photo captures the moment Rep. Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, far right, shouted Shut up! Shut up! during an Oct. 25, 2023 press conference when a reporter began asking about efforts GOP speaker nominee Mike Johnson (center) made to overturn the 2020 election.

Foxx has lived for nearly eight decades but she behaved like an 8-year-old on the national stage.

We are not sending our best to represent our interests, or to even uphold our democracy. Instead, we are repeatedly electing people like Scott and Graham and Foxx.

While Sen. Scott decided to demean the historical reality of Black people to garner votes for a mostly white-conservative audience and Graham showed no regard for fellow human beings, Foxx scoffed at a central question that goes to the heart of this thing we call a representative democracy.

What would it mean if the next speaker is among those who went out of his way to foster doubt about the 2020 election, the kind of doubt that fueled the hatred and violence we saw on Jan. 6, 2021? Why is one of our major political parties beholden to election deniers, particularly at a tinderbox moment such as this? We are about to find out, given that House Republicans chose Johnson to lead them, and the election denier in chief, Donald Trump, remains the odds-on favorite to capture the Republican presidential nomination for 2024.

If Foxx had any political integrity, or integrity of any kind, she would not have shouted Shut up! She would have answered the question. She would have ensured the American public that she would support no one for House speaker, or any other position, if they did not support basic democratic norms, such as respecting the nonviolent transfer of power even when your preferred candidate loses. Instead, she joined in with fellow Republicans hissing, booing and unleashing childlike taunts.

But thats not really surprising. Her party has been busy trying to craft a political map in North Carolina that would all but guarantee Republicans would retain a stranglehold on power in the state even if they cant convince a majority of us to vote for them.

They treat this precious place like a game, something to toy around with. But theres nothing funny about whats happening. We need grownups at the wheel during a time like this. And yet we repeatedly choose overgrown children to lead us.

We need to do better. We must. Our country needs us. We cant keep failing it.

Issac Bailey is a McClatchy Opinion writer in North and South Carolina.
Nine House Democrats voted against a resolution Wednesday that expressed support for Israel and condemned militant group Hamass attack against the country earlier this month.

In a 412-10-6 vote, the House chamber voiced strong support for Israel after Hamas launched a surprise attack against the country earlier this month that left 1,400 Israeli citizens dead and more than 200 others held in hostage by Hamas.

In response, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 6,546 residents and injuries to 17,439 more, according to a Wednesday update from the Gaza Health Ministry.

While the majority of lawmakers expressed their support for Israel, some lawmakers have criticized Israel for their airstrikes in Gaza and even called for the U.S. to end its funding to the nation.

Here are the nine House Democrats who voted against the resolution:

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (Mich.)

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.)

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) speaks to protesters affiliated with People vs. Fossil Fuels outside the White House in Washington, D.C., during a protest against the Mountain Valley Pipeline on Thursday, June 8, 2023. The pipeline in West Virginia and southern Virginia was funded in the recent debt ceiling package passed by Congress.

Tlaib, who is of Palestinian heritage, has been a vocal critic of the Israeli government, previously denouncing a House resolution earlier this year supporting Israel in a floor speech.

Israel is an apartheid state. To assert otherwise, Mr. Speaker, in the face of this body of evidence, is an attempt to deny the reality and an attempt to normalize violence of apartheid, Tlaib said during a floor speech.

Tlaib was one of the few progressive members of Congress that skipped Israel President Isaac Herzogs address to Congress in July.

She also faced backlash earlier this month for her initial statement on the attack, labeling Israel an an apartheid state and calling for the U.S. to end its finding for the country.

The failure to recognize the violent reality of living under siege, occupation, and apartheid makes no one safer. No person, no child anywhere should have to suffer or live in fear of violence. We cannot ignore the humanity in each other, Tlaib said in her statement. As long as our country provides billions in unconditional funding to support the apartheid government, this heartbreaking cycle of violence will continue.

Rep. Cori Bush (Mo.)

Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.)

Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.) addresses reporters during a press conference on Tuesday, July 18, 2023 to reintroduce the Peoples Response Act.

Bush, who called for the U.S. to end its support for Israel earlier this month, also led a coalition of progressive lawmakers who called for President Biden to work for an immediate cease-fire between Hamas and Israel.

The Ceasefire Now Resolution, introduced last week, urged Biden to push for an agreement to end the conflict and promptly send and facilitate the entry of humanitarian assistance into Gaza.

Top Stories from The Hill

I am grieving for every Palestinian, Israeli, and American life lost to this violence, and my heart breaks for all those who will be forever traumatized because of it, the Missouri lawmaker said in a statement.

War and retaliatory violence doesnt achieve accountability or justice; it only leads to more death and human suffering, she added. The United States bears a unique responsibility to exhaust every diplomatic tool at our disposal to prevent mass atrocities and save liveswe need a ceasefire now.

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (N.Y.)

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.)

Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.) heads to the House Chamber for a series of votes on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 which includes Rep. Matt Gaetzs (R-Fla.) motion to vacate the Chair for Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.)

In a statement earlier this month, Bowman called for the U.S. to work on a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, noting that Israeli and Palestinian civilians do not deserve to be killed due to this war. And we must govern in ways that nurture humanity, not succumb to violence.

Bowman was also one of the few progressive members of Congress who skipped Herzogs address to Congress in July.

We must remember that Palestinian civilians are not responsible for Hamass actions. We must ensure we center human rights and be clear-eyed about the loss of life that will unnecessarily be inflicted upon all innocent civilians, Bowman said in his statement.

We need open discussion of the root causes of this conflict to end this violence and stop Hamas once and for all and bring us to a peaceful two-state solution, he added.

Rep. Andre Carson (Ind.)

Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., speaks during the House Select Committee on Intelligence annual open hearing on world wide threats at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, March 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

Carson, who skipped Herzogs joint address to Congress in July, also called for a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, saying the U.S. should call for the end of Israels unfair, two-tiered rule over the Palestinian people.

Carson joined Bush as a co-sponsor of the Ceasefire Now Resolution early this month.

This latest escalation of violence painfully demonstrates the urgent need for just and lasting peace, Carson said in his statement. To achieve this, the US must rededicate ourselves and our resources to a real two-state solution, and call for the end of Israels unfair, two-tiered rule over the Palestinian people. This includes concrete steps to preserve the future of a Palestinian state.

Rep. Al Green (Texas)

Rep. Al Green (D-Texas)

Rep. Al Green (D-Texas) is seen as South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol addresses a joint meeting of Congress at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Thursday, April 27, 2023.

In a statement, the Texas congressman explained the reason he wouldnt support the resolution was due to his position on working for a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, saying his preeminent rationale from which others emanate is my philosophical conviction that issues of war and peace are questions of conscience, coupled with my sincere belief that we must plan for peace at the genesis of war.

Winning a war while losing the peace likely portends future wars. Regrettably, the resolution at hand does not mention a two-state solution in tandem with the necessity to provide aid to the Palestinians, yet both are part and parcel to any hope for lasting peace, Green said in his statement. I was proud to see President Biden take a similar stance in his address to the nation of Israel on October 18th.

My desire for a two-state solution is why, on October 12th, 2023, prior to President Bidens statement, I sent a letter to the Foreign Affairs Committee Chair and Ranking Member explaining in greater detail why I had not signed onto H.Res. 771.

Rep. Summer Lee (Pa.)

Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.)

Rep. Summer Lee (D-Pa.) leaves the House Chamber on Thursday, April 20, 2023 following the last votes of the week.

The first-term lawmaker joined Bush and her colleagues in co-introducing the Ceasefire Now Resolution earlier this month.

The violence that continues to escalate in Israel and Palestine is devastating to watch. I once again strongly condemn the violence, terrorism, and hostage taking by Hamas that tore away the lives of over a thousand Israeli civilians, Lee said in a statement.

But we cannot allow innocent civilians in Gaza  including children  to continue to be collectively and inhumanely punished for Hamas horrific actions, as weve already seen Israeli airstrikes kill thousands of civilians against international human rights law, and force hundreds of thousands of people out of their homes, Lee added. Continued retaliation against civilians will do nothing to end this tragic cycle of violence.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (N.Y.)

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.)

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) is seen during a vote for Speaker in the House Chamber on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.

In a statement earlier this month, Ocasio-Cortez called for an immediate ceasefire and de-escalation between the two sides.

Today is devastating for all those seeking a lasting peace and respect for human rights in Israel and Palestine. I condemn Hamas attack in the strongest possible terms. No child and family should ever endure this kind of violence and fear, and this violence will not solve the ongoing oppression and occupation in the region, Ocasio-Cortez said in her statement. An immediate ceasefire and de-escalation is urgently needed to save lives.

Ilhan Omar (Minn.)

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.)

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) addresses reporters during a press conference on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 with members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus to discuss the on-going situation of the FY 2024 budget.

In a statement, Omar explained the reason she voted against the resolution: She cannot support a resolution that fails to acknowledge and mourn the lives of Palestinians taken by the Israeli military.

The resolution also fails to acknowledge the Israeli governments military bombardment of Gaza, especially after Israeli officials openly admitted to implementing collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza, Omar said in her statement.

Our position should be consistent in defending innocent lives. We must use diplomacy to secure the release of hostages, end the violence by negotiating a ceasefire, restore water, food, and fuel to Gaza, and work toward lasting peace.

My unwavering commitment to human rights and peace compels me to oppose any action that perpetuates a crisis that has already ended many lives, she added. For this reason, I cast my vote against House Resolution 771.

Delia Ramirez (Ill.)

Rep.-elect Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.)

Rep.-elect Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.) is seen on the third day of the 118th session of Congress on Thursday, January 5, 2023. (Greg Nash)

Ramirez, a first-term lawmaker, issued a statement her vote against the resolution, saying that the resolution didnt honor a two-state solution between the two sides and did not recognize the interconnectedness of the Israeli and Palestinian people in their struggle for liberation and safety.

We cannot unequivocally support or condone the Israeli governments collective punishment of the Palestinian people in Gaza. The Palestinian people are not Hamas, Ramirez said. We must use our collective voice and influence to end the siege that has claimed the lives of more than 2,000 Palestinian children, displaced thousands of Palestinians, and limited the humanitarian aid that can reach the region. Violence cannot bring peace, and atrocities cannot justify further war crimes.

I believe in a future where Israelis and Palestinians are free and safe. Our futures are interconnected, and that realization can provide a path to liberation and coexistence.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Raped in Charlotte at 13 years old and left without closure for more than nine years, a woman now has some answers in a case that went cold in 2014.

DNA retrieved with a rape test kit led officers to Travon Levi Woods, now 33, back in 2016, according to a Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department news release. Police waited until now to charge Woods because he was already jailed in another North Carolina prison on other charges and was not considered an active threat, said CMPD public information officer Michael Allinger.

It is unclear where exactly the assault happened. Police on Aug. 13, 2014, responded to a call for service in the 3200 block of Shamrock Drive, which now houses a park and the Shamrock Senior Center near Eastway Drive and Briar Creek.

Woods was at Alexander Correctional Institution in Taylorsville for unrelated charges until Oct. 4 of this year, police said. When he was released, officers transferred him to the Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office, where he was charged with statutory rape, two counts of statutory sex offense and four counts of indecent liberties with a minor.

The Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) led detectives to Woods, who was 24 at the time of the assault.

Mystery deaths and cold cases in Charlotte increasingly solved by family trees, DNA

Similar technology has helped local police solve cold cases dating back to the 1980s.
By Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - About 900 more U.S. troops have arrived in the Middle East or are heading there to bolster air defenses for U.S. personnel amid a surge in attacks by Iran-affiliated groups, the Pentagon said on Thursday.

As tensions soar over the Israel-Hamas war, U.S. and coalition troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the last week, Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder told reporters.

A total of 21 U.S. forces have suffered minor injuries, the vast majority of them traumatic brain injuries.

The United States has sent warships and fighter aircraft to the region since the conflict erupted on Oct. 7, including two aircraft carriers, to try to deter Iran and Iran-backed groups. The number of troops added to the region is in the thousands.

Ryder said U.S. forces were again targeted earlier on Thursday in Iraq but the attack failed.

"I'm not going to have more specific information to provide to you from here in terms of specific groups that have claimed responsibility (for attacking U.S. personnel), other than to say we know that these groups are affiliated with Iran," Ryder said.

Reuters reported this week the U.S. military was taking new measures to protect its Middle East forces during the ramp-up in attacks by suspected Iran-backed groups, and was leaving open the possibility of evacuating military families if needed.

The measures include increasing U.S. military patrols, restricting access to base facilities and boosting intelligence collection, including through drone and other surveillance operations, officials say.

The U.S. is also beefing up monitoring from guard towers on its military facilities, increasing security at base access points and increasing operations to counter potential incoming drones, rockets and missiles, the officials say.

The latest U.S. troop deployments are tied to U.S. plans to deploy a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system and Patriot missile batteries.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the United Nations on Thursday that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip does not end, then the United States will "not be spared from this fire."

Last week off the coast of Yemen, a U.S. warship shot down more than a dozen drones and four cruise missiles fired by Iranian-backed Houthis.

The heightened tensions have put U.S. personnel on constant alert. During a false alarm at Al-Asad air base in Iraq on Thursday, a civilian contractor died from cardiac arrest.

(Reporting by Idrees Ali and Phil Stewart; Editing by Chris Reese and Howard Goller)
FILE PHOTO: Abbott Laboratories logo is displayed on a screen at the NYSE in New York

(Reuters) -Abbott Laboratories will stop sales of its Similac Probiotic Tri-Blend product used for hospitalized preterm infants after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning letter, the health regulator said on Thursday.

In the letter, the FDA said it was concerned that preterm infants were at risk of potentially fatal diseases or infections caused by bacteria or yeast contained in the probiotics.

"The product is an unapproved new drug and an unlicensed biological product being sold in violation" of regulations, the FDA said on Thursday about Abbott's Similac probiotic product.

An Abbott spokesperson said the issue pertains to Similac Probiotic Tri-Blend, which is used by fewer than 200 hospitals, and that it does not apply to any of the company's infant formula products available at retail stores.

The agency issued a similar warning to California-based Infinant Health in September.

Infinant's product, sold under the brand Evivo with MCT Oil, has since been voluntarily recalled and is no longer available in the country, the FDA said.

Infinant did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

In 2023, an infant death was reported, and so far more than two dozen other adverse events associated with probiotic products have been reported in the U.S. since 2018, the agency said.

The FDA is also investigating reports that these products may have contributed to additional adverse events, including death, and is working to obtain the evidence and medical records.

Certain probiotic products used in hospital settings to prevent a life-threatening bacterial illness have contributed to invasive diseases, the agency said.

The warning letter is different to the baby formula issue of last year, FDA said, referring to the closure of Abbott's plant in Michigan following a recall of some products due to bacterial contamination.

(Reporting by Leroy Leo and Khushi Mandowara in Bengaluru; Editing by Shinjini Ganguli and Sriraj Kalluvila)
The All-Abilities Playground will be ready for youngsters to climb, swing, slide and play as soon as the grand opening takes place on Monday, Oct. 30 at 4:30 p.m. in the OFallon Community Park.

The ADA-accessible playground is on the north side of the park, just west of the Long Cabin, at 401 E. Fifth Street. It replaces the aging playground and allows people of all abilities and development stages to play together.

The playgrounds name will also be revealed then, said Nick Schmidt, the Special Olympics coordinator for the OFallon Police Department.

The Fraternal Order of the Police Lodge #198 gave $25,000 to secure naming rights. Police officers have been heavily involved in supporting the Special Olympics over the years and are among the top fundraising departments in the state for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics.

We hope that children from the area will learn that those who may not look, walk, or speak like them can still laugh and have fun like them when given the opportunity, Schmidt said. Everyone will have an opportunity to play together and socialize.

Police officer Mike Shewmaker said the Special Olympics is one of the ways the officers get out and be part of the community, and they have enjoyed engaging with the athletes and their families.

There is a lot to do for kids on that playground, said Andrew Dallner, director of the OFallon Parks and Recreation Department.

We couldnt be more pleased with the support from the OFallon community. So many people stepped up to either help build or financially support the playground. Makes me so proud to be part of the OFallon community, he said.

Mayor Herb Roach thanked the community for its support, the donors, service organizations, and sponsors who helped make it happen, and volunteers who contributed their time to help build it.

An inclusive playground removes barriers between kids, despite any differences, and gives them areas that will allow them to be active, laugh and play, and enjoy some outside activities, Roach said.

Construction began in the spring and then in late summer, about 30 volunteers helped with some of the final installation.

It has gone really well, Dallner said.

Dallner said playgrounds where children with special needs can play along with others has been a growing movement, for it removes barriers for kids who havent been able to enjoy those outside activities.

They can be active and play in a welcoming environment, which is important for social connections, Dallner said.

But its not an easy plan to put into place because of the cost. Budgeted at $1 million, money was used from the Build OFallon Trust Fund, and donations were accepted.

Dallner said the playground and pool improvements were the two top priority rankings in the Build OFallon Trust Fund surveys.

The city provided opportunities to have sponsors donate to make names permanently part of the project.

A part of the Parks Master Plan, the Community Park is undergoing significant upgrades, in addition to the new playground, with trails and bike paths, a new swimming pool, event space, and new community center.

Recently, the police department raised $30,000 for the Torch Run Fund in a Lets Go to Jail fundraiser.

Twenty-five people really came through, Schmidt said.

The OFallon athletes compete in Illinois Special Olympics Region J, which provides programming for people in Bond, Calhoun, Clinton, Fayette, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, St. Clair, and Washington counties. They include 1,170 athletes of the states 23, 316 total.

For more information on the playground, visit https://ofallonparksandrec.com/
Protesters mark the first anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision overturning Roe v. Wade by displaying a neon sign in support of abortion access on June 23, 2023.

The total number of abortions performed across the country slightly increased in the 12 months following the decision by the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade, according to a new study.

The report, authored by the Society of Family Planning, a group that advocates for abortion access, found that the number of procedures fell to nearly zero in states with the strictest bans, and rose in areas with more lenient laws, especially if they were close to places that enacted full bans. Since last year, most Republican-controlled states have enacted restrictions, while most Democrat-controlled states have extended protections for those from out of state seeking abortion.

The Dobbs decision turned abortion access in this country upside down, Alison Norris, a co-chair for the study and a professor at The Ohio State Universitys College of Public Health, told the Associated Press in a statement. The fact that abortions increased overall in the past year shows what happens when abortion access is improved, and some previously unmet need for abortion is met.

Researchers said there are many reasons for this uptick. Medical facilities have increased efforts to see patients quickly and clinics in states where the procedure is legal  such as Illinois, Kansas, and New Mexico  have expanded to accommodate a surge of patients from neighboring states.

Abortions declined in states with restrictions

The data, collected from April 2022 to June 2023, represents a full year after the Supreme Court in June 2022 ruled on the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health Organization ruling, overturning Roe v. Wade and erasing a reproductive right the high court established nearly five decades ago.

In all, abortions provided by clinics, hospitals, medical offices, and virtual-only clinics rose by nearly 200 a month nationally from July 2022 through June 2023 compared with May and June 2022. Since 2017, abortion rates have increased in the country, making decreasing rates in strict states more striking as need increases, researchers said.

According to the study, states that experienced the most declines in abortions, such as Texas, Wisconsin, and Tennessee, were among the strictest before the Dobbs decision. As of June 2023, 14 states in the U.S. have completely banned abortion, including Alabama, Mississippi, and South Dakota.

An anti-abortion group celebrated the number of abortions decreasing in states with the strictest bans. WeCounts report confirms pro-life protections in states are having a positive impact, Tessa Longbons, a senior researcher for the Charlotte Lozier Institute, told AP in a statement.

According to the study, the states with the largest declines in abortions also tended to have the most disparities in maternal healthcare and poverty levels. Researchers said working-class people and those of color were most impacted by the federal ban, with about 75% of abortion patients living on low incomes.

Researchers said the numbers do not reflect abortion obtained outside the medical system, such as by getting pills from a friend.

After Roe v. Wade: This is what state abortion laws look like in US

Increased abortion tourism in the U.S.

Since the ban, states have passed laws to expand abortion access, with some even covering care for out-of-state residents. Researchers said these new policies have likely increased travel between states for these procedures.

The report referred to states with the largest increase of abortions provided in the 12-month period as surge states. These states included: Illinois, Florida, North Carolina, California, and New Mexico. States with big increases were likely governed by Democrats, but also some states with conservative leaders where abortion rights have been limited since the Dobbs ruling.

In Florida, attorneys for the government led by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis contend the state's highest court got it wrong 34 years ago when it ruled that women had a right to seek abortions without government interference under the states constitutional privacy right. And in North Carolina, a ban on abortion after 12 weeks was enacted in July.

According to the study, states near regions with abortion bans in place saw drastically higher numbers.

In the years since Roe was overturned, small, blue-state towns near red-state borders like Carbondale, Illinois, have experienced the courts radical redrawing of abortion access. States moved to restrict or ban abortions, and some clinics moved or opened anew in these border towns.

In the southeast, Florida, North Carolina, and Virginia have seen increases in abortion patients, according to researchers.

'Never imagined:' How one quiet Illinois college town became the symbol of abortion rights in America

Contributing: The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Abortions rose slightly in the United States post-Roe restrictions
ACAPULCO, Mexico  Acapulco, known as the Pearl of the Pacific, is recovering after being pummeled by deadly Hurricane Otis, the most powerful storm on record for the Pacific coast of Mexico.

As of the latest update from officials, Otis has been blamed for the deaths of at least 39 people, while many are believed to be still missing.

Acapulco was severely damaged, with buildings and infrastructure crumbling under the might of the Category 5 hurricane. The beach resort is now left in darkness, without power or communication  a haunting reminder of the devastating power of Hurricane Otis.

As the ferocious hurricane made landfall in the southern state of Guerrero, Jaime Villanueva and his friend, Barbara, found themselves seeking refuge on the 21st floor of the Solar Ocean Hotel.

HURRICANE OTIS LEAVES BEHIND 'NIGHTMARE SCENARIO' AFTER STRIKING ACAPULCO, MEXICO

The raging Otis relentlessly pounded the building as they huddled together, bracing for the worst. The sound of howling winds and crashing waves outside was deafening, and the two feared for their safety as the hurricane raged on.

"This truly seems like a lie. What is this? We are alive," Villanueva said. "I don't know how we are alive, but we are alive."

As the Sun rose, the true impact of the chaos was revealed, and Villanueva was left to witness the heartbreaking aftermath. The view below him was a harsh reminder of the devastating power of nature.

HOW DID HURRICANE OTIS' RECORD INTENSIFICATION CATCH ADVANCED FORECAST MODELS BY SURPRISE?

"You're kidding," Villanueva exclaimed as he gazed upon the post-storm chaos. "Acapulco has been destroyed."

After the hurricane, Villanueva reached the ground level and recorded the damaged hotels caused by Otis.

His footage shows the aftermath of the Category 5 monster, with ceilings and walls ripped open, shattered windows, submerged cars and debris scattered all around. Downtown Acapulco was littered with the remnants of mangled trees.

Hurricane Otis had also caused damage to infrastructure, leaving the residents disconnected from the outside world due to downed telecommunication lines. Mexico's National Guard continues to try to clear roadways leading to coastal communities.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador looks out of the window as the vehicle transporting his is stuck in mud during a visit to the Kilometro 42 community, near Acapulco, Guerrero State, Mexico, after the passage of Hurricane Otis, on October 25, 2023.

The remnants of Otis are expected to produce additional rainfall totals between 4 and 6 inches through Thursday across Guerrero and the western coastal sections of Oaxaca. This rainfall will produce flash and urban flooding, along with mudslides in higher-terrain areas.





Original article source: 'Acapulco has been destroyed': Hurricane Otis blamed for dozens of deaths as search efforts begin
Cars cross a flood-damaged avenue after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Hurricane Otis ripped through Mexico's southern Pacific coast as a powerful Category 5 storm, unleashing massive flooding, ravaging roads and leaving large swaths of the southwestern state of Guerrero without power or cellphone service. (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte)

ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP)  Survivors of a Category 5 storm that killed at least 27 people as it devastated Mexicos resort city of Acapulco spent Thursday searching for acquaintances and necessities and hoping that aid would come quickly in the wake of Hurricane Otis.

The Pacific storm had strengthened with shocking swiftness before slamming into the coast early Wednesday, and the Mexican government deployed around 10,000 troops to deal with the aftermath. But equipment to move tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets was slow in arriving.

Resentment grew Thursday in impoverished neighborhoods as residents worried that government attention would go to repairing infrastructure for the city's economic engine of tourism rather than helping the neediest.

Flora Contreras Santos, a housewife from a poor neighborhood on the outskirts of the city, sought help in looking for a 3-year-old girl who was swept away from her mother in a mudslide. She went from soldier to soldier trying to interest any one of them in the tragedy that occurred on her street at the height of the storm.

The mountain came down on them. The mud took her from the mothers arms, Contreras said. We need help, the mother is in bad shape and we cant find the girl.

Even as army bulldozers began clearing knee-deep mud from Acapulcos main boulevards, Contreras' pleas did not appear to move any of the soldiers to action.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador went by road Wednesday after the hurricane hit the iconic city on Mexico 's Pacific coast. At least four people remained missing. It was unclear if the 3-year-old girl was counted among them.

The president said Otis had toppled every power-line pole in the zone where it hit on Wednesday, leaving much of the city of 1 million without electricity. Otis turned from mild to monster in record time, and scientists were struggling to figure out how  and why they didnt see it coming.

The people sheltered, protected themselves and thats why fortunately there werent more tragedies, loss of human life, Lopez Obrador said.

Acapulco's municipal water system was down and around half a million homes lost power. Lopez Obrador said that restoring power was a top priority, but by Thursday evening there were still 300,000 homes and businesses with no electricity.

Brown floodwaters extended for miles in some areas. Many residents were taking basic items from stores to survive. Others left with pricier goods, in widespread rampages through the area's stores.

As cell phone signals began to return to some parts of the city, residents organized themselves with the help of friends and relatives living in other parts of Mexico and the United States. They joined together by neighborhood using online messaging platforms like WhatsApp. On Thursday there were some 1,000 people in 40 chats, which only continued to grow in number throughout the day.

They shared photos of flooded neighborhoods and tips for finding cell phone signals, while asking for information about loved ones that they had not heard from. Others share photos of papers full of names of survivors taking refuge in shelters, some with notes reading Lupita, we are okay. I will call you when we have signal.

When someone joins from a neighborhood they're asked by people outside the city to look for other residents there.

Juan Pablo Lopez, 26, had been talking to his wife when their call was cut off early Wednesday as Otis made landfall. She had returned to Acapulco to be with her family and give birth to their son a month ago. Lopez was at home in Cancun.

Im very worried for my newborn son, he said.

With no information coming in Wednesday, he created an online chat with friends and family from Guerrero state, where Acapulco is the largest city. He also invited friends who had emigrated to the U.S. and asked them to add their local contacts.

We started to cross-reference information, to share what we found, almost like a WhatApp newspaper, Lopez said.

By Thursday afternoon, however, he still had not heard word about his wife and son.

The surreal was commonplace in the storm-wrecked city, as residents emptied the area's stores of goods.

Ricardo Diaz, a self-employed laborer, stood Thursday with two fistfuls of live chickens he clutched by their legs. A chicken company had given him the chickens, Diaz said. A woman nearby pushed an office chair loaded with artificial Christmas wreaths and toilet paper through the streets. Diaz looked on in dismay as people carried armfuls of goods out of a damaged store.

Theyre going to close these stores and that hurts Acapulco, Diaz said.

Edith Villanueva, holding her daughter, worried about what would happen to Acapulco in the long term. She worked at a cell phone store that had already been cleaned out.

They already stole all of the phones, she said. Its one thing to steal food, but people are abusing it.

Acapulco's police chief Enrique Vazquez Ramirez said Thursday they could do little to stop people from emptying local stores or speed up traffic caused by mud and fallen trees, which has left much of the city paralyzed.

This is a completely extraordinary situation, he said.

Some residents said it could take a year for Acapulco to recover; with no power, gasoline, little cell coverage and hotels wrecked by the hurricane, the task seemed impossible.

Marketing expert Antonio Esparza was one of the few optimistic ones, even as he sat trapped in the snarled traffic of the aftermath.

This is going to improve Acapulco, because it will force the government to pay attention, he said.

Large stores that had their merchandise taken were not restocking their shelves, meaning finding goods could become harder. But street-produce vendors were doing a brisk business in some neighborhoods as residents sought fresh food.

The once-sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds  possibly thousands  of windows. Miguel Angel Fong, president of the Mexican Hotel Association told the AP that 80% of the city's hotels were damaged.

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco on Wednesday but downed electricity lines were in feet of mud and water.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City. The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulcos commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights, though Lopez Obrador said the plan was to establish an air bridge to move in resources.

Acapulco is at the foot of steep mountains. Luxury homes and slums alike cover the hillsides with views of the glistening Pacific Ocean. Once drawing Hollywood stars for its nightlife, sport fishing and cliff diving shows, the port has in recent years fallen victim to competing organized crime groups that have sunk the city into violence, driving away many international tourists.

___

AP writer Maria Verza in Mexico City contributed. Associated Press Science Writer Seth Borenstein in Washington contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs climate coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
Recently, Biden administration officials shared a status update on the presidents Cancer Moonshot, one of the most ambitious domestic health policy initiatives in recent memory, inspired by the tragic death of President Joe Bidens son, Beau, from brain cancer at the age of 46.

One of the key objectives of the Biden Cancer Moonshot  a whole-of-government approach to cut U.S. cancer rates in half by 2050  is to prevent more cancers before they start, including by reducing tobacco use. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death overall in the U.S. and, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is responsible for 90% of all lung cancer deaths  about 114,000 deaths annually.

According to the CDC and the American Cancer Society, Black and LGBTQ+ Americans smoke and suffer from cancer at disproportionately higher rates than their white and straight counterparts. Because health equity for marginalized groups has always been at the top of the presidents public health agenda, I was surprised to see that his own Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  specifically, the Center for Tobacco Products  has become a roadblock for his ambitious goals to reduce tobacco use and preventable lung cancer, especially for Black and LGBTQ+ Americans.

Harm reduction saves lives. E-cigarette and vaping products are proven to help adults reduce their smoking, or quit entirely, and contain none of the 7,000 carcinogenic or otherwise toxic ingredients contained in cigarettes. In fact, the only ingredient that vaping products share with cigarettes is nicotine.

And yet, over the last several years, the FDA has systematically refused to approve vaping or e-cigarette products  ignoring the latest science around both e-cigarettes and harm-reduction. Harm-reduction is work I have done through the entirety of my career in Black and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Want more health and science stories in your inbox? Subscribe to Salon's weekly newsletter Lab Notes.

Out of 6.7 million e-cigarette product applications filed, only 1.2 million were even formally reviewed by the FDA. Of those reviewed, just 23 related products  including only eight individual vaping devices, all made by Big Tobacco  have been technically approved for sale. At the same time, the FDA approved 900 new cigarettes during the same period.

My organization, the Center for Black Equity (CBE), one of the leading Black and LGBTQ+ public health advocacy organizations in the country, recently released a new econometric analysis authored by Dr. Robert J. Shapiro, a noted Democratic economist and advisor to the last three Democratic administrations. The new research quantifies the significant health and economic benefits of vaping nicotine as an alternative to cigarettes, with particular focus on the impact on and benefit to the communities I serve in my role at CBE.

The analysis confirms the findings of hundreds of other studies  that vaping is a legitimate and effective harm-reduction and smoking-cessation tool for adults, and that the risk profile of vaping nicotine is extremely low both on its own and as compared to smoking cigarettes. But more than that, the report has, for the first time, quantified the health and economic benefits of switching from smoking to vaping.

Dr. Shapiros analysis used advanced statistical modeling techniques and massive amounts of public health data to determine that between 2010 and 2022, the availability of vaping products saved 113,000 lives, preserved $137 billion in GDP, saved $39 billion in healthcare costs, and reduced the number of smokers in the U.S. by 6.1 million.

The science is clear  if reducing smoking and preventable cancer is a priority for the Biden administration, approving a wide variety of e-cigarettes would be the easiest and most impactful place to immediately improve health outcomes. Allowing consumers to access lower-risk nicotine products would directly improve the health profiles of Black and LGBTQ+ Americans who smoke and die in higher numbers than the rest of the population.

Other government health agencies understand this. Britains Department of Health and Social Care launched a program called Swap to Stop that urges British citizens to exchange their carton of cigarettes for a vaping kit. The U.S. is far behind in its approach, but the FDA and the Center for Tobacco Products could easily implement a policy that broadly approves vaping products  especially flavored vaping products  whose availability makes it two to three times more likely adults will quit smoking as compared to non- or tobacco-flavored products.

Less smoking means less cancer, especially for Black and LGBTQ+ Americans. And supporting broad access to and availability of vaping products means supporting the Biden Cancer Moonshot. It means more adults quitting smoking; it means fewer cancer diagnoses; and it means eliminating the most preventable cause of death in the U.S.

The benefits of shifting from smoking to vaping will be felt most acutely among those communities most at-risk. Americans, especially Black and LGBTQ+ Americans, need regulatory policies that reflect modern science.

Anything less stands in the way of achieving essential health equity and harm-reduction goals critical to the presidents agenda.
A man identified as a suspect by police points what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle, in Lewiston

A man identified as a suspect by police points what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle, in Lewiston

By Daniel Trotta and Julia Harte

(Reuters) - Hundreds of police searched the city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine state for a man sought in connection with mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley, as news outlets reported a death toll ranging from 16 to 22, with dozens more wounded.

Officials said there were multiple casualties but declined to provide figures.

State and local police identified Robert R. Card, 40, as a person of interest in the case after previously posting on Facebook photographs of a man wielding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle. The pictures from one of Wednesday's crime scenes showed a bearded man in a brown hoodie and jeans, holding the weapon in the firing position.

"We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr. Card, who is a person of interest," Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.

Several media reported that a Maine law enforcement bulletin identified Card as a trained firearms instructor and member of the U.S. Army reserve who recently reported that he had mental health issues, including hearing voices. It also said he threatened to shoot up a National Guard base.

"Card was also reported to have been committed to mental health facility for two weeks during summer 2023 and subsequently released," said the notice from the Maine Information & Analysis Center.

Reuters could not authenticate the bulletin. The Associated Press reported it was circulated to law enforcement officials.

The bar and the bowling alley are about four miles (6.5 km) apart in Lewiston, a former textile hub and town of 38,000 people in Androscoggin County about 35 miles (56 km) north of Maine's largest city, Portland.

Media reports picked up by Reuters earlier said there was a third shooting site at a Walmart distribution center, but Walmart later issued a statement to local media saying no shooting occurred on their property.

The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston issued a statement saying it was "reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event" and coordinating with area hospitals to take patients.

President Joe Biden has been briefed and will continue to receive updates, a U.S. official said in Washington.

The president spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston and offered full federal support in the wake of the attack, the White House said.

If the death toll of 22 is confirmed, the massacre would be the deadliest in the United States since at least August 2019, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 23 in a shooting that prosecutors branded an anti-Hispanic hate crime, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

The 22 fatalities would also be on par with the number of homicides that normally occur in Maine in any given year. The number of annual homicides in the state has fluctuated between 16 and 29 since 2012, according to Maine State Police.

The number of U.S. shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, with 647 occurring in 2022 and 679 projected to occur in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the archive.

The deadliest U.S. mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.

(This story has been corrected to change the name to Mr. Card in paragraph 4)

(Reporting by Daniel Trotta; Additional reporting by Julia Harte, Steve Gorman and Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Sandra Maler, Ross Colvin, Lincoln Feast and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
Immigration advocates are warning that hundreds of thousands of immigrants stand to lose their jobs unless the Biden administration issues an extension for expiring work permits.

A prior extension issued by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will expire Friday.

In May 2022, the USCIS announced that people whose Employment Authorization Document (EAD) was up for renewal would receive a document granting them 540 extra days of work authorization after the expiration date on their EAD.

But that rule came with a sunset clause, meaning that as of Friday, renewal papers will only cover EAD holders for 180 days after expiration, much less than the 16 months the USCIS is currently taking to renew EADs for asylum seekers.

Absent another extension, the automatic extension period is once again only 180 days, but its taking USCIS much much longer to issue those renewals. Unless the government acts soon, immigrant workers are going to be in a situation where theyre going to lose work authorization for several months while their work permit is renewed, said Leidy Perez, policy and communications director at the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project.

Asylum seekers are not the only immigrants in a pickle  as of April, there were 263,354 EAD applications pending for more than 180 days, 191,368 of which were linked to asylum applications.

And the pipeline for EAD applications is relentless. According to the USCIS, the agency was processing 535,764 total pending EAD petitions in April.

New York Democratic Reps. Adriano Espaillat and Jamaal Bowman last week led a letter signed by 35 members of Congress asking the USCIS to issue a new rule maintaining the automatic extension for EADs at 540 days.

The Hill has reached out to the USCIS for comment on this story.

Though the lawmakers praised the USCISs work to reduce the median wait time for EAD renewals, they said the agency would simply not be able to catch up to the backlog without an extension.

Given the hundreds of thousands of immigrants that remain subject to USCISs continued delays, it is highly unlikely that, as of October 26, 2023, USCIS will be able to adjudicate all or nearly all renewal applications before the shorter, 180-day automatic extension period expireswhich will inevitably cause applicants to lose their work authorizations before receiving a new EAD, the lawmakers wrote.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Almost one-third of Americans are overwhelmed by medical debt, according to a new survey of 6,100 adults by The Commonwealth Fund. Photo by Dr. Piotr Bodzaek/Wikimedia Commons

NEW YORK, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Affording healthcare is a struggle for half of working-age Americans, and almost one-third are overwhelmed by medical debt, according to a new survey of more than 6,100 adults by The Commonwealth Fund released Thursday.

The New York-based private foundation, which is focused on affordable and quality healthcare for all, noted that medical debt is a growing problem that makes insured and uninsured Americans sicker and poorer. And affordability challenges affect people on employer plans, Medicaid, Medicare and marketplace coverage.

"I was not shocked at all by what we found," Dr. Joseph Betancourt, president of The Commonwealth Fund, told reporters at a briefing on the findings. He added that "patients' experiences range from confusion to frustration to legitimate threats to their health and well-being."

For the survey, telephone and online interviews were conducted in English and Spanish with a nationally representative sample of 7,873 adults age 19 and older between April 18 and July 31, 2023. Then, the analysis focused on 6,121 respondents of working age, between 19 and 64 years old.

The survey focused in part on the cost of health insurance.

I was not shocked at all by what we found, said Dr. Joseph Betancourt, president of The Commonwealth Fund. Photo courtesy of The Commonwealth Fund

"While having insurance is always better than not having it, the findings challenge the assumption that health insurance coverage in the U.S. buys affordable access to care," the survey report said.

It noted that "large shares of insured working-age adults surveyed said it was very difficult or somewhat difficult to afford their healthcare."

"The findings challenge the assumption that health insurance coverage in the U.S. buys affordable access to care, said Sara Collins, vice president for health care coverage and access and tracking health system performance at The Commonwealth Fund. Photo courtesy of The Commonwealth Fund

That included 43% of those with employer coverage, 57% with marketplace or individual-market plans, 45% with Medicaid and 51% with Medicare.

Delayed healthcare

"Many insured adults said they or a family member had delayed or skipped needed healthcare or prescription drugs because they couldn't afford it in the past 12 months," the reported said.

That included 29% of those with employer coverage, 37% covered by marketplace or individual-market plans, 39% enrolled in Medicaid and 42% with Medicare.

"Cost-driven delays in getting care or in missed care made people sicker," the report said. "Fifty-four percent of people with employer coverage who reported delaying or forgoing care because of costs said a health problem of theirs or a family member got worse because of it, as did 61% in marketplace or individual-market plans, 60% with Medicaid and 63% with Medicare.

"Insurance coverage didn't prevent people from incurring medical debt. Thirty percent of adults with employer coverage were paying off debt from medical or dental care, as were 33% of those in marketplace or individual-market plans, 21% with Medicaid and 33% with Medicare."

Many Americans are saddled with medical debt because "we still have gaps in our insurance system, leaving millions without coverage for short or extended periods of time," the report's lead author, Sara Collins, senior vice president for health care coverage and access and tracking health system performance at The Commonwealth Fund, told UPI via email.

Significant hardships

For people with health insurance, copays and deductibles or narrow provider networks pose significant hardship. On a tight household budget, it may be difficult to cover the bills, leading to medical debt that has to be paid off over time.

"While media stories often focus on people who experience emergencies that leave them with lots of bills they can't pay, we find that half of people reporting medical debt said it resulted from treating an ongoing condition" such as cancer or diabetes, Collins said.

The report "is a staggering indictment of U.S. healthcare and the financial burdens that it imposes on Americans," Jonathan Oberlander, a professor and chair of social medicine and health policy and management at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, told UPI via email.

"No part of American health insurance is safe: Persons with Medicare, Medicaid, individually purchased and employer-offered coverage, as well as the uninsured, are vulnerable to the high costs of medical care."

As the report points out, "even with insurance, more than 1 in 5 Americans must pay off debt from medical or dental care," Dr. Joshua Liao, an internal medicine physician and associate chair for health systems at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle, told UPI via email.

He noted that "while the issues encompassed by the survey unfortunately aren't new, its findings are still timely and noteworthy."

High deductibles

A large part of the problem lies in high deductibles on state healthcare marketplaces. The average cost on a silver plan is $4,000 to $5,000 nationally, Leighton Ku, a George Washington University health policy professor and board member of the DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority, told UPI in a telephone interview.

"That's at the heart of why so many people who are insured have affordability problems." Ku said.

Not being aware of the cost of healthcare services may lead to unpleasant surprises.

"Unlike grocery shopping, in which I always see the price of an apple before I put it in my cart, patients rarely know the price of a visit, test, procedure or a new prescription drug ordered by their healthcare provider in advance," Ellen Meara, a professor of health economics and policy at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, told UPI via email.

"They may learn only when they get a bill, often much later, requiring them to pay whatever insurance will not pay."

One of the best ways to reduce medical debt is to expand insurance access.

So far, 10 states have elected not to expand Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act, despite consistent evidence that this would reduce medical debt and improve access to care, William Schpero, assistant professor in the division of health policy and economics of population health sciences at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York, told UPI via email.

"Congress can also take steps to improve the affordability of private insurance by extending -- and further increasing -- enhanced premium subsidies for plans purchased on state insurance marketplaces that are currently set to expire in 2025," Schpero said.
Feng Jiang is shown after his arrest Tuesday in New York City.

The anonymous tip about the pink one-story house in northwest Oklahoma City came into the state's human trafficking hotline a year ago.

The caller reported several vehicles had stopped there. Many had out-of-state license plates.

What a four-month investigation found was that the house had become a brothel for managers and administrators at medical marijuana farms across Oklahoma, the state's narcotics bureau alleges. Between last October and February, a dozen women were trafficked there.

On Tuesday, police in New York City arrested Feng Jiang, who is accused of being the boss of the operation that flew women in to serve as prostitutes.

The arrest came a month after the Oklahoma multicounty grand jury returned an indictment charging Jiang, 43, with human trafficking. That indictment was made public Wednesday.

The grand jury also returned a second human trafficking indictment in September against Jian Lin. He is accused of taking women from the Oklahoma City airport to the brothel and getting them groceries and condoms. Lin, 31, was still being sought Wednesday.

"Human trafficking is a nefarious crime that preys on the vulnerable," Donnie Anderson, the director of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control, said in a news release about the indictments.

Agents raid OKC brothel in human trafficking case

After the tip, narcotics agents conducted surveillance of the house, installed a pole camera and did trash pulls, court records show. One agent estimated that in four months "well over 100 vehicles/persons have visited the ... address with most staying less than an hour."

Found in the trash pulls were "dozens of used condoms," the agent reported.

Jian Lin is being sought after being indicted as a result of a human trafficking investigation.

Agents raided the brothel, Lin's apartment and other locations Feb. 23. Lin was arrested at the time on a drug complaint but released the next day after posting a $10,000 bond.

Agents reported finding the drug ketamine in Lin's apartment, $44,342 in his bedroom and $5,197 in his vehicle.

Jiang was not arrested in February. The narcotics bureau alleges he has continued to traffic women in Oklahoma, while residing in New York, as recently as this month.

The Oklahoman could not determine if Jiang has hired an attorney yet who could comment for him.

Advising the state grand jury are assistants of Attorney General Gentner Drummond.

Illegal marijuana grows are responsible for an alarming influx of organized crime into our communities, particularly from Mexican drug cartels and Chinese crime syndicates Drummond said in September. I have made it a priority to wipe out these illicit operators."

Tips on illegal grow operations can be made anonymously to the attorney general's office at oag.ok.gov by clicking on the Illegal Marijuana Tipline tab. Tips also can be sent to illegalgrow@oag.ok.gov.

The multicounty grand jury in September also returned three drug trafficking indictments after investigations by the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority.

Grand jurors alleged illegal marijuana operations were being conducted at Green Panda Cultivation Inc. in McAlester, Zhchen Farm LLC in Calumet, International Growing Company LLC in Maud and Mr. Releaf LLC in Tecumseh.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: One arrested in human trafficking scheme tied to Oklahoma pot farms
Consequences of the Russian attack on the Khmelnitskyi Oblast on October 25

Reports of mass damage from local authorities in Khmelnitskyi Oblast, following a Russian drone strike near the Khmelnitskyi Nuclear Plant, require clarification, said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat on national television on Oct. 26.

According to Ihnat, local authorities submitted reports claiming that 1,760 structures in the oblast had been damaged following the strike, saying the scope of the damage was "as if [it was] after a nuclear explosion".

Ihnat asked for Ukrainians to treat the information with a degree of understanding, as each local authority counts damage differently, and that it may be necessary to provide some financial assistance to the authorities.

In addition, Ihnat clarified that it is not always possible to shoot down kamikaze drones and missiles outside populated areas, as in the recent attack on Khmelnytskyi Oblast, when air defenses are prioritized with protecting the NPP, along with other local facilities.

Read also: Ukraine Air Force addresses concerns regarding attack on Khmelnytskyi NPP

Following the strike, authorities in Khmelnytskyi Oblast reported that debris from the drones fell onto a critical infrastructure facility in the Shepetivka district. This incident affected the nearby cities of Slavuta and Netishyn, where the Khmelnytskyi NPP is located. Multiple buildings in the vicinity sustained damage, and approximately 2,000 households were left without electricity.

Slavutas mayor, Vasyl Sydor, reported that over 300 multi-story buildings were damaged, and industrial enterprises and residential homes also suffered damage.

According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, there was no direct impact from the drones on the nuclear plant; the explosions did not affect the NPP's operations or its connection to Ukraines power grid. However, the shock wave damaged the windows of several buildings on the site, including the entrance to the reactor buildings, auxiliary buildings, special equipment units, and training centers. An IAEA team is still assessing the exact scale of the damage.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Airbnb is continuing its crackdown on people using rental houses as one-night party destinations, and that means you might have tough luck if youre trying to find a booking for Halloween.

Its one of the biggest party nights of the year, and Airbnb says its using artificial intelligence to block certain one-night and two-night reservations over Halloween.

Its happening in North Carolina, and across the United States, according to Airbnb.

The company says its looking forbookings identified as potentially higher-risk, but it didnt say any people, specifically, are being targeted. According to Airbnb, the companys technology looks at hundreds of signals relating to the booking attempt ... including length of the trip, the distance to the listing, and whether the booking is last-minute.

SEE IT >> Police break up Airbnb party with over 700 guests

Airbnb says its trying to reduce the risk of disruptive and unauthorized parties over the holiday weekend.

Channel 9 has reported on issues with Airbnb parties in the past. Back in February 2022, two men were arrested after a shooting at an Airbnb party in north Charlotte, and another shooting at an Airbnb pool party in Indian Trail left one person dead in 2020.

Since then, Airbnb has been cracking down on parties at its available homes. According to the company, there was a 55% decrease in reports of parties over two years.

The company says that last Halloween, it blocked about 5,400 people in North Carolina from booking an entire home.

(WATCH: NC Airbnb property threatened $10,000 fee for negative review)
CAIRO  Al Jazeeras chief correspondent in the Gaza Strip, Wael Dahdouh, was helping broadcast live images of the territorys night sky when he received the devastating news: His wife, son and daughter had all been killed on Wednesday.

Moments later, the Qatari-based satellite channel switched to footage of Dahdouh entering al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza before giving way to grief as he peered over the body of his dead son.

They take revenge on us in our children? he said, kneeling over his sons bloodied body, still wearing his protective press vest from that days work.

Dahdouhs grandson also was declared dead two hours later, the network reported.

The video was sure to reverberate across the Arab world, where the 53-year-old journalist is well-known as the face of Palestinians during many wars. He is revered in his native Gaza for telling peoples stories of suffering and hardship to the outside world.

According to Al Jazeera, Dahdouhs family members were killed by an Israeli airstrike that hit Nuseirat Refugee Camp, located in an area of Gaza where the military had encouraged people to go to stay safe. It said a number of other relatives were still missing, and it remained unclear how many others were killed.

Dahdouhs family were among the more than 1 million Gaza residents displaced by the war, now in its 19th day, and were staying in a house in Nuseirat when the strike hit, the network said.

The Israeli strikes have killed more than 6,500 Palestinians, Gazas Health Ministry says. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel  mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

Late Wednesday, Al Jazeera replayed the moment Dahdouh was informed about the deaths. In an audio recording he is heard picking up a phone and telling a frantic caller multiple times: Who are you with?

Earlier, Dahdouh was on air, covering the aftermath of a separate strike that had killed at least 26 people, according to local officials. Throughout the war, Dahdouh has remained in Gaza City, despite Israeli calls for residents to head south ahead of an expected ground offensive.

Hundreds of thousands of people have fled to Nuseirat and other locations in central and southern Gaza, believing them to be safer. But Israeli strikes have continued to pound these areas, which are suffering dire shortages of water, medicine and fuel under an Israeli siege.

This is the safe area which the occupation army talked about, the moral army, said Dahdouh with bitter sarcasm to a fellow Al Jazeera reporter at the al-Aqsa hospital.

In a statement, Al Jazeera said Dahdouhs family home was targeted in an indiscriminate assault by the Israeli occupation.

The Israeli army had no immediate comment. It says it strikes only Hamas military targets, but the Palestinians say thousands of civilians have died. Israel accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields.

Israel has threatened to shut down Al Jazeera over its coverage of the war. Al Jazeera is a Qatari state-owned media network and is deeply critical of Israel, particularly its treatment of Palestinians.

Over the last week, the gas-rich nation of Qatar has emerged as a key intermediary over the fate of more than 200 hostages captured by Hamas militants during their Oct. 7 assault. Qatar has hosted Hamas political office in its capital of Doha for over a decade. The capital, Doha, is home to Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas supreme leader, and also Khaled Mashaal, Haniyehs predecessor.

Four of the hostages have been released, a mother and daughter on Friday and two more on Monday. In an interview with Sky News this week, Mashaal said all Israeli hostages could be released if Israel stopped its aerial bombardment of Gaza.
An Al Jazeera reporter covering the war in Israel was on air when he was told his wife and children had been killed in an airstrike.

Wael Al-Dahdouh reported on the same attack in Gaza on Wednesday evening without knowing his family had been killed, in an area they had fled to for safety after Israels warning of a ground incursion.

The Gaza bureau chief lost his son Mahmoud, a senior in high school, and his seven-year-old daughter Sham in the blast, his network said.

Palestinians inspect the damage of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Al-Dahdouhs grandson Adam was declared dead two hours later, Al Jazeera later reported. Other members of his family are still missing in the rubble.

The journalist had stayed in Gaza City to cover the war while his family fled south to seek safety and stay with relatives at the Nuseirat Camp.

This is the condition of the entire Palestinian people, he told reporters after he had learned of his familys deaths. There is no safe space in Gaza at all and no-one is safe. No-one is safe from the treachery and aggression of the occupation.

The Palestinian health ministry said the airstrike killed at least 25 people. There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military.

The latest deaths came amid reports US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he had asked the Qataris to "turn down the volume on the state-owned Al Jazeeras coverage because it is full of anti-Israel incitement, according to AXIOS. Israel has accused Al Jazeera of being "a propaganda mouthpiece" for Hamas in the past.

Palestinians try to put out a fire at a destroyed area following Israeli air strikes in Gaza City (EPA)

In a statement, the network said: The Al Jazeera Media Network extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to our colleague Wael Al-Dahdouh on the loss of his family in an Israeli airstrike.

The indiscriminate assault by the Israeli Occupation forces resulted in the tragic loss of his wife, son, and daughter, while the rest of his family is buried under the rubble.

Their home was targeted in the Nuseirat camp in the centre of Gaza, where they had sought refuge after being displaced by the initial bombardment in their neighborhood, following Prime Minister Netanyahus call for all civilians to move south.

Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety, and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security.

The Network strongly condemns the indiscriminate targeting and killing of innocent civilians in Gaza, which has led to the loss of Wael Al-Dahdouhs family and countless others. We urge the international community to intervene and put an end to these attacks on civilians, thereby safeguarding innocent lives.
Severe weather can happen any time in Alabama, with the biggest threats coming in the form of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.

The National Weather Service is responsible for putting out weather advisories. We all hear the terms when weather conditions are threatening.

But just what do they mean?

Watches

The most common type of advisory. Watches are issued when conditions are favorable for severe weather. They usually cover large areas; dozens of counties, or even entire states. Watches are usually issued hours before potential severe weather events occur. They give you time to prepare for any inclement weather.

Warnings

Can best be considered calls to action. Warnings are issued when severe weather has been confirmed in a specific area either by trained people on the ground, or indicated by weather radar. Warnings can be issued with several minutes of lead time or just before the event happens.

Advisories

Can be issued several hours or even days ahead of an expected severe weather event. Advisories are just that  they advise on possible severe weather outbreaks or events indicated by forecasts. The forecasts become more specific as information comes in and that can lead to the issuance of watches of warnings.

A tornado struck on Jan. 12, 2023, causing massive damage. Cars and homes were destroyed and buildings were set on fire.

And remember, rapidly changing weather conditions mean just that. The situation can change for the worse quickly and with little or no forwarning. If your area is under a severe thunderstorm watch, or a tornado watch, tornadoes can form. If a tornado warning has not been issued, you need to stay aware of weather conditions.

Weather advisories are most often issued by the Climate Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., or by state National Weather Service offices. Alabama is covered by four NWS offices in Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile and Tallassee, Fla.

The most common bulletins issued in Alabama are severe thunderstorm watches/warnings and tornado watches/warnings.

A thunderstorm reaches severe limits when winds reach 58 miles per hour of higher, and/or hail 1 inch in diameter is possible.

If a tornado warning is issued for your area, seek shelter immediately.

There are several weather applications you can download to your smartphone or device that will give you up-to-the-minute weather information. The NWS also advises that every home, school, place of worship and school should have a weather radio with battery backup to stay informed about weather conditions.

Contact Montgomery Advertiser reporter Marty Roney at mroney@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Alabama severe weather: Here's what each type of alert means for you
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (center) speaks during a state luncheon hosted by US Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the State Department (SAUL LOEB)

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday highlighted his own country's consensus on restricting guns as he visited the United States during the latest mass shooting.

At a luncheon at the State Department during a state visit, Albanese recalled how Australia enacted tough gun laws after a gunman killed 35 people in Port Arthur, Tasmania in 1996.

"Indeed, it is the case that we look every time there is one of these events and are grateful that Australia did act in a bipartisan way to the Port Arthur massacre," he told the luncheon in the presence of Vice President Kamala Harris.

"My heart goes out to those who will be grieving today," Albanese said.

Australia, like the United States with a historic gun culture, banned automatic and semi-automatic weapons after the 1996 killing.

Mass shootings have been rare since, although six people died in an hours-long siege at a remote property in December.

At least 18 people died after a US Army reservist who was a certified arms instructor went on a shooting spree in Maine Wednesday, including at a bowling alley, according to police.

It was the latest mass killing in the United States, where gun rights are enshrined in the Second Amendment to the Constitution and fiercely protected by the gun lobby and most of the Republican Party.

Albanese, from the left-of-center Labor Party, recalled that he met with the National Rifle Association among other pressure groups during a visit to the United States in his 20s as part of a State Department-arranged visit to Washington.

sct/st
Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and Korean telco KT are among the investors of Moreh, which builds an AI software tool that optimizes and creates AI models. The Santa Clara- and Seoul-based startup said it has raised a $22 million Series B round, bringing its total raised to $30 million.

Moreh says its flagship AI software, called the MoAI, is similar to Nvidias CUDA but is compatible with existing machine learning frameworks like Metas PyTorch, Googles TensorFlow, and applications and AI models that previously could only run on Nvidia.

The startup believes existing AI software is suitable for small-scale AI models using only a few GPUs (graphics processing units) but is inadequate for more massive AI infrastructure. According to a recent report, as AI is rapidly maturing at enterprise scale, companies IT infrastructure and data architectures are "unfit" for training AI models.

Morehs AI solutions allow users, including AI developers, data center operators and AI chip makers, to build more flexible AI infrastructure, important given the general shortage of GPUs globally, Gangwon Jo, co-founder and CEO at Moreh, told TechCrunch.

The three-year-old startups AI software enables GPUs and other AI chips, such as neural processing units (NPUs), to operate AI models, including large language models (LLMs) like GPT-3 and T5, without any code changes, Jo explained. (NPU is a specialized chip designed to accelerate machine learning algorithms, while GPU is used for supercomputing, AI, machine learning, and extensive data analysis where numerical precision is required.)

KT has been working with Moreh since 2021 to build a cost-effective, scaleable AI infrastructure powered by AMD GPUs and MoAI software.

KT claims that Morehs offering proved its technology works and that its performance in developing LLM and other AI models surpassed Nvidias DGX in terms of performance speed and GPU memory capacity. AMD's MI250 Instinct accelerator powered by the MoAI platform showed 116% higher GPU throughput than Nvidia's A100, according to Moreh, which also said AI developers could reduce a tenth of the total time required to initiate training for large AI models via its software.

Most recently, the startup completed the training of Korean-language-based LLM with 211 billion parameters and will release the model as open source later this year.

Moreh started generating revenue in 2021 and aims to reach approximately $30 million by the end of 2023, Jo told TechCrunch.

The AI software ecosystem supporting AMD AI hardware continues to grow, providing choice for data scientists and other users of AI as they build the AI models and solutions that will drive the continued growth of this industry, Brad McCredie, corporate vice president of data center GPU and accelerated processing at AMD, said in a statement.

Moreh will use the money for research and development, product expansion and hiring additional staff, which now has 70 employees. South Korean VC firms Smilegate Investment and Forest Partners, Morehs existing investor, also participated in the Series B round.
The Rafah border crossing is the only land route out of Gaza not controlled by the Israeli government, and when there is no fighting it is rarely more than an hours drive from most places in the Palestinian territory.

But for Palestinian Americans who have been trapped in Gaza for nearly three weeks and are desperate to escape the escalating war between Israel and Hamas, it feels a million miles away.

Israeli missile attacks  launched in retaliation for the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack that killed more than 1,400  have made getting around treacherous. Many of the roads have become impassable. And with gas supplies dwindling, finding a way to the border is increasingly difficult and expensive.

Taxi fare used to be around $20, but now it jumped to around $150  that is for those who can find a taxi that still has fuel, said Maha Elbanna, a U.S. citizen who lived in New Jersey for a dozen years before she returned to Gaza 15 years ago to work for an aid organization.

Maha Elbanna, a 49-year-old from New Jersey who is stuck in Gaza where she's an aid worker. (Courtesy Maha Elbanna)

The trapped Palestinian Americans say nobody seems to know when they will be allowed to enter Egypt through the Rafah crossing, which was shut down after Hamas launched the deadly attack and in response Israel instituted a full siege.

Those waiting in limbo as bombs fall describe living on water, bread and hummus, although it's becoming increasingly difficult to find drinking water.

Jason Shawa, a Palestinian American who works as a translator, is stuck in central Gaza with his wife and two daughters. They're living in a cabin with about 57 people, including 22 children, and everyone is "extremely drained and exhausted," he said.

Their generator recently broke, and they had to haul it to a mechanic on a donkey cart. After the repairs, it's "barely functioning," he said.

They have three light bulbs that they turn on at night using power from a small solar panel system that provides "minimal electricity."

One bulb lights the patio where people sleep outside, another a room where all the children sleep and the third a room for the elderly.

As for internet service, it's undependable, he said

"Internet has become a major concern now," Shawa said. "The internet provider sent us a message yesterday morning that they will stop providing internet within 48 hours due to the lack of diesel fuel, which is needed for generators to keep the system going.

They charge their phones with whatever electricity remains from solar power, but "we virtually have no cellular connection."

"You have to try dozens of times, dialing and redialing, he said. You get 10 to 20 seconds speech on the phone, then it cuts and then you have to try again.

As the situation spirals, there's little sign a diplomatic impasse that's keeping Palestinian Americans from passing through Rafah into Egypt will be resolved immediately.

Four hundred U.S. citizens and permanent residents and 400 more of their dependents have requested help from the State Department to leave Gaza through the Rafah border, a source familiar with the situation on the ground told NBC News.

It is our very sincere hope that they would be able to leave in the coming days, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller told reporters Tuesday.

Lynn Hastings, a Canadian who is the United Nations resident coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, said the Americans stuck in Gaza have little choice.

Nabil Alshurafa, a Palestinian American who lives in Chicago, said his mother, Naela, was visiting family in Gaza when the fighting erupted and has tried and failed to cross the border four times, twice before the State Department starting sending out guidance.

During her second attempt on Oct. 10, Alshurafa said, chaos erupted amid shelling near the Rafah crossing. He said the bus she was on pulled over and the passengers were ordered to get out.

Alshurafa said the guides who had been hired to escort them over the border panicked and tossed the passports theyd collected back at the passengers.

Its so chaotic, Alshurafa said. Everyones trying, crying, trying to get out. And theres this guy just grabbing passports and just literally throwing it out. Like, throwing it at people.

2023 Israel-Hamas war (Majdi Fathi / NurPhoto via AP)

Abood Okal, who lives in Medway, Massachusetts, and is stranded in Gaza with his wife and their 1-year-old son, said in a voice memo Wednesday that they are staying just 10 minutes away from the Egyptian border.

Now, Okal said, they have run out of milk for their son, Yousef, and airstrikes have intensified in the last few days.

"It would be his first night ever in his entire life to go to sleep without having milk" Okal said.

Yousef has already had trouble sleeping, his father said.

"Weve been trying to soothe him as much as we can and keep him shielded from the wrath of the war," Okal said. "And wed like to think that were continuing to do that successfully."

Dr. Barbara Zind, a Colorado pediatrician who has been working in Gaza, agreed that conditions for the would-be escapees clustered near the Rafah crossing are deteriorating rapidly.

I am comfortable at a U.N. facility in the south with about 40 other people working for humanitarian aid programs, Zind said in a text message.

She said about 16,000 Palestinians are also taking shelter at the facility.

There are probably over 400 people per toilet, Zind texted. They get 1 pita and  can of canned meat per person per day.

Fares Abu Fares, a volunteer with a Palestinian childrens relief fund, whose wife and children are in the U.S., said he considered getting out of Gaza.

But Wednesday, Fares said, there were explosions in the Gaza neighborhood where the rest of his extended family lives. Now he's mad.

"They just hit us by about six, seven bombs," Fares said, sounding out of breath. "My whole house was shaking. I have debris all over my hands."

"I've decided I'm not leaving," he said.

Other Palestinian Americans are also sitting tight while looking for alternative ways to get to the Rafah border when it opens.

Fady Isleem, a Palestinian American from Columbus, Ohio, whose mother is trapped there and is staying a 40-minute drive from Rafah, said that one of his uncles owns a car that could get them to the crossing but that it runs on diesel fuel that is now impossible to find.

He told me this morning hes going to try to use the vegetable oil, Isleem said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Another 810 Russian troops eliminated, 29 tanks, 30 artillery systems destroyed over last 24 hours

A further 810 Russian soldiers were eliminated in Ukraine over the past 24 hours along with 29 tanks, 18 armored combat vehicles and 30 artillery systems, according to the latest General Staff update.

Enemy losses since the start of the full-scale invasion are rapidly approaching the staggering 300,000 mark.

Read also:

Total Russian losses as of Oct. 26 are as follows :

Personnel: 297,120 (+810),

Tanks: 5,141 (+29),

Armored combat vehicles: 9,715 (+18),

Artillery systems: 7,155 (+30),

Multiple launch rocket systems: 834 (+1),

Anti-aircraft missile systems: 556 (+2),

Aircraft: 320 (+0),

Helicopters: 324 (+0),

Tactical anmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs): 5,389 (+17),

Cruise Missiles: 1,538 (+0),

Ships / Boats: 20 (+0),

Submarines: 1 (+0)

Automotive equipment and tanks: 9,507 (+33),

Specialized equipment: 1010 (+3).

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Another big winning lottery ticket has been sold at a metro-east store.

This time it was a Crossword scratch-off ticket with a $250,000 prize sold at the MotoMart convenience store on Camp Jackson Road in Cahokia Heights, according to a release from Illinois Lottery.

Its quite thrilling that someone won a big prize right here in Cahokia, John Fraser, manager at the Cahokia MotoMart, told Illinois Lottery. Our regular customers tend to think the big wins happen in Chicago, so were very delighted that someone in our small town won!

He heard that his store sold the ticket when the company president reached out, congratulating us for selling a top prize winning ticket. the release states. Its such an honor to be recognized as a lucky store.

The store will receive a $2,500 bonus, equal to 1% of the $250,000 prize, the lottery agency stated in the release.
LAND O' LAKES, Fla. - Just one day after Land O' Lakes High School was closed over a suspicious mail item, Pasco County deputies said they are investigating after another piece of suspicious mail found on campus.

The Pasco Sheriff's Office said another suspicious mail item was found Wednesday afternoon after students were dismissed for the day. The item was isolated to a non-student area of the school, according to investigators.

RELATED: Suspicious substance found in mail closes Land OLakes High School as deputies investigate

Land O' Lakes High School was closed Tuesday after the first suspicious mail item was found. Authorities said the substance found was isolated to a non-student area of the school and was not hazardous in nature.

No other information was immediately available.
Head of the NACP Oleksandr Novikov

Oleksandr Novikov, the head of the National Agency on Corruption Prevention or NACP, said in an interview with NV Radio on Oct. 23 that he hopes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will not sign the controversial bill that changes the procedure to prosecute local government officials.

After all, 40,000 people who have committed corruption and corruption-related offenses would disappear from law enforcement registers, he said.

Novikov explained why the lawmakers suggested forgetting the corrupt officials and how certain people had illegally earned millions at military recruitment centers across the country.

NV: Tell us more about the existing bill. Why can 10,000 people who have already been entered into the register of corrupt officials disappear from it?

Novikov: Dmytro [NV Radio host], first of all, this is not a bill, but a law that has already been voted and passed by the Verkhovna Rada [Ukraines parliament].

NV: But it hasnt been signed by the president yet, right?

Novikov: But not signed yet. We hope the president wont sign it. The deadline for imposing a veto has already passed. But we have examples when the bill was passed by the Verkhovna Rada, but the president didnt sign it, and this is not one such bill. Second. Not 10,000, but 40,000 people who have committed corruption and corruption-related offenses will be removed from this register.

Read also: Why EUs Borrell personally discusses corruption with Kyiv officials  expert interview

We have a large country and a large population, thank God, the largest in terms of territory [in Europe]. And, hopefully, well return to those indicators that were in terms of population after our victory. Why are we talking about 10,000? Because 10,000 are those who have committed criminal offenses. If this bill is enacted by the president, these 10,000 people who have committed criminal offenses will be removed from the register of persons who have committed corruption and corruption-related offenses.

They will have the opportunity to participate in [state] procurement. The law on procurement now prohibits, if a person is in the register, to participate in procurement, in particular procurement for the supply of the Ukrainian army. This is a major risk.

And secondly, after such deletion of 80% of the registry data, no Ukrainian official would be able to fully vet any given candidate for civil service. Since there will be no official source of data on persons who have been entered into this register.

NV: How did it happen? What was the motivation for this law, as far you know?

Novikov: This law (which contradicts the Law of Ukraine On Prevention of Corruption, contradicts the Constitution) was developed by the Justice Ministry. We dont know the ministrys logic regarding this law on forgetting corrupt officials.

NV: 10,000 are those who have committed criminal offenses. And the rest, who are these 30,000 officials? What violations have they committed?

Novikov: Corruption criminal offenses include embezzlement and misappropriation of state and public property, as well as abuse of power in ones own interests or in the interests of third parties. These are the two categories of crimes that are the most common and for which the relevant courts most often issue sentences.

The Criminal Code of Ukraine lists the types of crimes that are considered corruption crimes. And depending on what these crimes are, people receive the appropriate court sentence.

Read also: US sends stern warning to Ukraine: Clean up corruption or risk aid!  CNN

For example, one of the deputy ministers was convicted in 2019, but despite this, he was appointed to the position. Because we havent yet received the courts decision, obviously he couldnt be appointed. These are also some lawmakers who have already vacated their seats were convicted by the High Anti-Corruption Court in 2023.

After this law comes into force, these legislators who offered large bribes, for example, will be able to continue participating in procurement and run for office as if nothing happened.

Regarding [former] President [Viktor] Yanukovych. Lessons were drawn from his case, the legislator made changes to the law on public procurement, on public service, namely regulations that prohibit people on this register from running for office or holding positions in certain state bodies. This is correction work that has been made and may now be wasted if this bill is signed into law.

NV: Were trying to understand the logic of this law. Is amnesty possible at all?

Novikov: The point is that its necessary to distinguish between a criminal record, which is the consequences under the criminal law, and the presence of a person in the register of persons who have committed corruption and corruption-related offenses. Indeed, according to the Criminal Code, any criminal legal consequences, for example, bans imposed by the court, lose their validity.

Read also: Former anti-graft agency chief on Ukraines anti-corruption system  interview

The registers essence and logic are about something else. The relevant articles of the Constitution determine that the state can regulate the order by law, establish certain criteria (this is not about lustration [dismissal]), inconsistency with which will mean that a person doesnt meet the criteria for admission to the position. The state has established in the laws that if a person was convicted of a corruption crime, he cannot participate in public procurement. At the same time, the state hasnt directly established that such a person cannot hold any public office.

But what did the state do? So that any manager, including the president, minister, the High Qualification Commission when appointing judges, could take this information into account and find out the reputational or possible corruption risks associated with such a person. The register was created for this purpose.

It doesnt automatically lead to a person not being appointed. But it automatically leads to a ban on participation in state procurement.

NV: Did you manage to talk to the lawmakers? Maybe they explained the logic behind the bill?

Read also: Ukraines SBU apprehends four more military and medical officials profiting from draft dodgers

Novikov: This register seems to include 10 lawmakers, so their interest in the adoption of this bill is obvious. Perhaps, indeed, there is logic in establishing a maximum period of stay in this register of people who have committed administrative offenses. For example, they failed to submit an [asset] declaration on time.

Why, perhaps, there is logic in this, but this wasnt done in the law, but [they want to remove from the register] just everyone, including those who have committed criminal offenses? Because the civil service law stipulates that for three years after a person has committed an administrative offense related to corruption, he cannot hold a public office. But the legislators didnt even take this into account. In the law were discussing, he said that one year after the [offense] is committed, such a person is subject to removal from the register.

NV: How rude would it be to assume that the corrupt officials themselves are interested in this law?

Novikov: This is not merely an assumption, as the National Agency on Corruption Prevention shares the same opinion.

NV: Then its not clear why the majority of Ukrainian lawmakers vote for it.

Novikov: I cannot comment. Were sure that most lawmakers are honest. They were probably misled.

NV: And sometimes they probably should read the bills they vote for.

Novikov: I agree with you. Always, not sometimes.

NV: At least some key documents should be read.

Novikov: This document is crucial, because 92% of Ukrainian citizens believe that no loopholes should allow people who have committed corruption offenses to avoid submitting digital [asset] declarations (and this law is related to resuming the obligation to declare).

However, the lawmakers ignored this request of the Ukrainian public, as well as the one that corruption is the second biggest problem in Ukraine after the war.

NV: Do you know cases when a person was on the list of corrupt officials, but has since proven their innocence and was expunged from the register?

Read also: Zelenskyy signs decree dismissing all regional draft commissioners, appoints ex-combat officers

Novikov: Currently, the legislation provides that the cancellation of an order imposing a disciplinary sanction, for example, as a result of which a person [found himself] in the register, is the basis for being stuck from it. Revoking the court decision, on the basis of which a person is in the register, as you mentioned, is also a reason for removing a person from this register. Such cases really do happen.

But these are general procedures established by procedural legislation, i.e., criminal, administrative, or civil service legislation, or the Labor Code, and not a separate law on forgetting corrupt officials.

NV: Whats the situation with [digital] declarations? And when can we expect that the system will be open, transparent, and everyone involved in anti-corruption issues will be able to use this register?

Novikov: All declarations will be available to the public and media on Dec. 10. Well open public access to the electronic register. This register, in accordance with the requirements of the law that was passed, will classify information about people on whom well receive submissions from the heads of local authorities.

NV: Do you mean people who were registered, perhaps, in Russia-occupied territories? What are the exceptions?

Novikov: Information about people participating in the defense of Ukraine is subject to removal. Except for those who hold positions in recruitment centers, military medical commissions, and units engaged in procurement. In addition, information about people whose declarations are available in the register, but who are in the occupied territories, as well as their relatives, is subject to removal.

NV: Regarding recruitment centers. Youve examined the situation. What have you discovered amid those high-profile scandals that were accompanied by investigations into some draft commissioners?

Novikov: As of today, the general results of lifestyle monitoring regarding the management staff of recruitment centers indicate UAH 255 million ($6.9 million) of illegal enrichment by the relevant officials.

NV: And how many people are involved in this?

Novikov: Im not prepared to give an exact number. Weve published the data [on the website].

NV: Whats next? Will any investigations be initiated based on this data?

Novikov: First, the SBI [State Bureau of Investigation] has charged Yevhen Borysov, the former head of the Odesa regional territorial recruitment center. Then the head of the procurement sector, i.e., a subordinate of this draft commissioner. We submitted materials against him to the Southern Region Specialized Prosecutors Office. We established similar violations by another subordinate, namely the head of Odesas Malynovskyi district territorial recruitment center, for UAH 47 million ($1.2 million).

Read also: Prosecutor Generals Office opens war crime investigation over drone attacks on Odesa Oblast

And whats surprising, Dmytro: many officials buy very expensive Mercedes-Benz cars during the war. In this regard, we decided to check all owners of new Mercedes-Benz cars, starting from 2020. The inspection of draft commissioners led us to this because we can say this is a car [brand] that corrupt officials pay special attention to.

Also, UAH 8.5 million ($232,374) at Dnipropetrovsk regional territorial recruitment center, as well as UAH 1.8 million ($49,208) with deputy head of the Poltava territorial recruitment center. All these materials have been submitted to the prosecutors office.

NV: Regarding the Mercedes-Benz brand. This has long been a car for officials. And draft commissioners, are they military people? Theyre all military officers, right?

Novikov: Yes. Id like to add that these facts of corruption among territorial recruitment centers heads actually are in contrast with ordinary employees of these centers, most of whom, as the results of our monitoring have shown, are honest people.

In any category of officials, most of them are honest. And they drive Ukrainian-made [Daewoo] Lanos cars, not Mercedes, relatively speaking.

NV: Another NACPs initiative is a public discussion of the bill on preventing the abuse of powers by judges. What do you propose to bring the legislative branch to European standards?

Novikov: A few years ago, the Constitutional Court abolished the responsibility of judges for rendering unjust rulings. After that, we saw how the Pechersk District Court or the District Administrative Court of Kyiv (since disbanded), or one of Kyivs district courts seems to have issued a decision outside of its jurisdiction. They forbade the air service to do something or revoked licenses without having any authority to do so, or they determined who should be the head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine or NABU (the decision of the District Administrative Court of Kyiv, as we remember), or the Pechersk District Court made decisions in cases under investigation by the NABU. All this happened due to the lack of clear responsibility for such decisions.

Read also: Top official Tatarovs case against NABU returns to court

Therefore, the state anti-corruption program approved by the government provides for the return of judges responsibility for perversion of justice, necessarily taking into account the decision of the Constitutional Court so as not to call into question the constitutionality of this decision. After the return of such responsibility, were sure that such decisions of the courts that I mentioned simply cannot be part of the Ukrainian justice system anymore. Because this is the interference of judges in the activities of their colleagues, and its clearly illegal.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
There is an old saw, with some truth in it, that in the days of enforced legal segregation Northeastern liberals accepted black social equality in theory while avoiding in practice most social interactions with African Americans, while Southern segregationists sometimes had friendly relationships with individual African Americans but bitterly rejected the idea of categorical black equality. In other words, Northeastern liberals accepted African Americans as a group but rejected them on an individual basis, while Southern segregationists took (at times) roughly the opposite approach.

That surely runs the risk of overstating the liberality of Southern social norms at the time. Some of that one-on-one amicability was no doubt conditioned on general white supremacy. But there is something to the observation. In 1960, nearly 21 percent of the population in the South was black, while the black population of Vermont was 0.1 percent. More than 40 percent of the residents of Mississippi in 1960 were black: You could be a bigot there, but it was hard to avoid social interactions with African Americans, which was not so in Minnesota, where less than 2 percent of the population was black.

I sometimes think of that distinction when people who justify anti-Israeli barbarism protest that they are not anti-Jew but anti-Zionist. I am sure that Rep. Rashida Tlaib would be happy to tell you that some of her best friends are Jews, and that may even be true. Anti-Zionists dont hate Jews on a one-by-one basisthey hate them on a corporate basisnot as neighbors but as a nation.

I am not sure that is the high moral ground that the anti-Zionists think it is.

The well-scrubbed anti-Zionists you meet on Ivy League campuses and in polite salons are careful never to make openly essentialist arguments about Jews. Nobody wants to sound like Henry Ford or George Lincoln Rockwell. But try as they might to root their arguments in history or political economy or anti-colonialism, the anti-Zionists in the end always end up making the case that the Jews are a special class of people who must endure special disadvantages: Other peoples have the right to aspire to self-determination, but not the Jews; other peoples have a right to self-defense, but not the Jews; other peoples deserve the protection of the rule of law and international norms, but not the Jews; etc.

The anti-Zionist view of the Palestinians is hardly any less essentialist. Other peoplesthe Jews of Israel above allmust be expected to behave decently even when engaged in warfare, but not the Palestinians, who simply cannot help themselves when it comes to, say, gang-raping Jewish hostages to death or decapitating Jewish children; the Palestinians are practically unique among the worlds people in that their refugee status is understood to be eternally heritable, as though the Arabs of Palestine had not themselves arrived there as conquerors but rather had sprouted from the ground like mushrooms; other peoples are expected to take collective responsibility for their communities, but the Palestinians apparently are destined to be eternal wards of the United Nations and international philanthropists.

Remember the hospital in Gaza where the explosion happened? It was built in the 19th century by Christian missionaries, maintained for decades by the Southern Baptist Convention, and currently operated by the Episcopaliansthat funny old Islamophobia. The first war between the Arabs and the Israelis happened three-quarters of a century ago. For comparison, consider that the people of Hong Kong transformed their city from one of the worlds poorest places to one of its richest in about 40 yearsand did so while colonial subjects of the British, who blessed Hong Kong with a policy of positive noninterventionism. Seventy-five years on, and Gazas main export is homicidal fanaticism.

One would think that American progressives would positively admire Israel, which, alone in a sea of religiously derived social atavism, offers an island of rights for women and gays, for religious and ethnic minorities, and for secular-minded progressives on the Western model. But of course, they dont.

It should be noted here that anti-Zionism does not denote a critical attitude toward the Israeli governmentlots of people, beginning with the Israelis, have criticisms to offer about the Israeli government. Anti-Zionism is the rejection of the idea of a Jewish state. It holds that the existence of Israel is per se immoral.

The hatred for Israel among Western progressive elites is in part an accident of history and a Cold War relic: Anti-Zionism is, like the antisemitic fraud known as the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, largely the creation of Russian propagandists. The Palestinian cause, once championed by largely secular and nationalistic Marxist-Leninists such as Yasser Arafat, was a useful cudgel for 20th century allies of Moscow who wished to paint the worldwide activities of the United States and its allies as imperialistic. Hostility toward Israel and indulgence toward Arab brutality is, at this point, mostly just an old habit, a toxic tradition. If it had served Soviet interests to celebrate the Israelis as champions of enlightened progress against the feudal and quasi-theocratic norms of the Arab world, the propaganda would have run the opposite direction. But, as it turned out, the United States embraced the Israelis and the Palestinian leadership embraced V.I. Lenin, and so the Palestinians joined everyone from the Sandinistas to Idi Amin as useful allies to Moscowthe actual interests of the Palestinians, the Nicaraguans, or the Ugandans be damned.

The problem for Western apologists for Hamas is that Hamas is more than willing to admit what its benefactors will not: Killing the Jewish state means killing a great many Jews. Hamas founding documents are pretty clear about the groups program, which is the annihilation of Israel: Hamas rejects any alternative to the full and complete liberation of Palestine, from the river to the sea. As Bruce Hoffman argues in some obscure magazine Ive never heard of, we Westerners would do well to take Hamas at its word, beginning with the words of its founding documents.

But because we insist on infantilizing the Arabs of Palestine, Westerns typically insist that the enormities carried out by Hamas are not authentically representative of the aspirations of the Palestinian people. If the Palestinian people are unhappy with Hamas, they are awfully quiet about it. True, the Palestinians have not had a chance to vote against Hamas since voting in Hamas going on two decades ago, and resisting Hamas while living under Hamas rule would require of the Palestinians a degree of national gumption that they have not previously exhibited. It is not as though the Palestinians are unable to perform feats of self-sacrifice, but they are by all appearances inclined to undertake such feats only in the project of killing every Jew they have the opportunity to murder. One hopes that Hamas is not a perfect representation of the political character of the Palestinian people, but it is not entirely an alien imposition, either.

National aspirations are a tricky thingthey are tricky today, just as they were in 1948. Many of us in the liberal-democratic world sympathize with the aspirations to self-determination expressed by many nationalist movements around the world, even when the banner is carried in some part by less than admirable people. There is a reason Irish republicanism found so much support among Americans. Americans sometimes seem more keen on formal independence for Taiwan than the Taiwanese do.

At the same time, that does not mean that we necessarily support every revolution that comes along, from the Basque to the Flemish to the Kurds to, goodness gracious, the Texans and the Californians. But Jewish nationhood in Israel is a fait accompli and has been for many, many years. The rhetorical war on Zionism in the West and the literal war on Zionism in the Middle East isnt a war against some hypothetical development, and it isnt an argument against a political persuasion: Anti-Zionism means war on a real nation, one that actually exists, one that is full of real people with real families.

The Palestinians are real people, too, not that their so-called benefactors treat them as such. Instead they deploy them as human shields, political abstractions, and strategic martyrs. In effect, Hamas treats them as automatons who can be of use to the world only by killing Jews and by suffering in photogenic ways. One would hate to believeand I do not believethat this is all the Palestinians have to offer the world.

It is not at all obvious to me that the vandal who paints a swastika on a synagogue is really a different kind of Jew-hater from the Columbia law students who justify the violence of more direct and physical Jew-haters of the kind who do Hamas dirty work. If anything, the Columbia law students are the more vicious and dangerous kind of Jew-hater in the long run, because most (not all) of the synagogue vandals reach the peak of their destructive powers with a can of spray paint rather than as, say, senior diplomats or members of Congress. Synagogue vandals do not shape the coverage of the New York Times, but the anti-Zionists do, with destructive results.

Maybe 75 years isnt that long in the grand sweep of history, but Israel is an older country today than the United States was when the first Macys opened, as old as the United States was when Moby-Dick was written. Israel is not a passing historical whimsy. Israel is a fact. It is a lie to pretend that eliminating that fact means anything other than naked violence. Hamas may lie to the world about many things, but it is, at the very least, honest about its ultimate aims. The so-called anti-Zionists here in the West might have the  decency isnt the right word  the candor, at least, to do the same.

Click here for more coverage of the war in Israel.



Read more at The Dispatch

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Accusations of antisemitism surrounding a far-right Texas group and state lawmakers it has supported are feeding the growing knives-out conflict among Texass ruling Republican Party.

The moderate and conservative wings of the Texas GOP are engaged in a broad fight over the political rot of white nationalism and antisemitism that Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan (R) says is festering in the state Republican partys ranks.

Conservative Texas GOP leaders including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have faced attacks from their enemies within the party after news broke in early October that the director of Defend Texas Liberty PAC had met with white nationalist and self-described Nazi sympathizer Nick Fuentes , according to The Texas Tribune.

A number of the conservatives have declined to return money they received from the PAC despite pressure from Phelan and others.

Until Monday, Patrick was among them  but after facing weeks of criticism for taking $3 million from the group, the lieutenant governor said he would invest the money into the state of Israel, staking out a middle-ground stance between his fellow conservatives defiance and the position of his more moderate colleagues.

Patrick said he was appalled about what I am learning about the antisemitic activities among Texas Republicans.

The news of the meeting between the PAC leader and Fuentes broke just a day after the Palestinian militant group Hamass raid on southern Israel, adding further weight to the allegations of antisemitism within the state GOP. The raid and the Israeli response, which are estimated to have left more than 1,400 Israelis and 6,500 Palestinians dead, have become a lightning rod for the far-right, a movement with deeply idiosyncratic views when it comes to Jews.

On the one hand, there is the sizable contingent of Christian Zionists, a Texas-born movement of evangelicals that backs a hard-line government in Israel and an unchecked settlement campaign in the occupied West Bank.

Then there are those who have flirted with, or even embrace, the idea that evangelical Christians should have a dominant role in Texass public life  a principal talking point in past campaigns to unseat the states first ever Jewish House speaker, the moderate former Rep. Joe Straus (R).

Defend Texas Liberty PAC belongs to the latter contingent. The PAC was set up in 2020 by three Texas oil billionaires to advance the cause of Christian nationalism, and it has spent heavily to remake Texas in its image: backing legislators who have effectively outlawed abortion, gun control, gender-affirming care and any community protections against the fossil fuel industry.

The group is almost entirely funded by evangelical oil billionaires Tim Dunn and the brothers Dan and Farris Wilks  a triumvirate that represents part of a Russian-style oligarchy, pure and simple, former state Sen. Kel Seliger (R) told CNN last year.

It also has a long history of ties to white nationalist groups, as the Tribune has reported.

Defend Texas Liberty PAC was also a staunch backer of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R), who was impeached in May on charges of corruption by the relatively moderate Texas House  only to be acquitted in September by the far-right Senate.

As president of the Texas Senate, Patrick served as judge over the proceedings.

In July, Defend Texas Liberty PAC gave Patrick $3 million in combined campaign contributions and loans  a donation that spawned such outrage from so many quarters that Patrick pledged to refuse all campaign donations until the trial wrapped up.

In September, after Patricks political allies acquitted Paxton, the lieutenant governor called for a full audit of public money the House spent on impeachment.

When the Tribune broke the news in early October that Jonathan Stickland, the former director of Defend Texas Liberty PAC, had met with Fuentes, enemies of Paxton and Patrick pounced.

I reject an individual who denies the holocaust and someone who supports the Aryan brotherhood, Phelan told NBCs Dallas affiliate.

Phelan added that it should be easy for Republicans to do that, and I have yet to see these individuals do that.

Thats on them. Thats not on me. I havent taken a dime from these people and I never will, Phelan added.

In the aftermath of the story  as the PAC quietly replaced Stickland  Phelan urged other Republican recipients of Defend Texas Liberty PAC donations to return the money.

Few agreed to do so. While state Reps. Jared Patterson (R) and Stan Kitzman (R) donated their contributions  $2,500 and $5,000, respectively  to charities, other recipients told Texas media that they would keep the money, and largely pointed to their support for the Israeli government as proof against any accusations of antisemitism.

Some made the point in particularly stark terms.

If everyones a white supremacist then no ones a white supremacist,' Rep. Steve Toth (R) wrote on Oct. 9 in response to a post on X, the platform previously known as Twitter, noting that he had refused to sign a letter condemning Defend Texas Liberty.

Every time Republicans pander and apologize to progressive Democrats on issues of race they show the world how little backbone they actually have, Toth added.

Until Monday, the ranks of the defiant included Patrick himself. After the Tribune story broke, the lieutenant governor announced that he was keeping the money from Defend Texas Liberty PAC.

Patrick said that the groups funder Tim Dunn had assured him that everyone at the PAC understands that mistakes were made and are being corrected.

I accept Mr. Dunn at his word. I know him to be a man of integrity and an avid and staunch supporter of Israel, Patrick added, calling Phelans criticism of the group a smear campaign.

Mismatching socks is a blunder,' Phelans chief of staff retorted on X. Meeting with a pro-rape, pro-Taliban, pro-Hitler, anti-Semitic, Holocaust denier like Nick Fuentes for 6.5 (hours) is NOT a blunder.

On Monday, the lieutenant governor seemed to strike a middle ground: He said he would use the $3 million to buy Israel bonds, which offer returns of about 5 percent  the equivalent of putting the money in a high-yield savings account.

This move was likely a gesture of disdain by Patrick to Phelan, his longtime political enemy, University of Houston political science professor Brandon Rottinghaus told NBC.

This is a sidestep at best towards complying with the trend among more moderate GOP members to distance themselves from Defend Texas Liberty, Rottinghaus said.

After Patricks announcement, Phelan called for further reforms within the party, including the immediate resignation of state Republican Party chair Matt Rinaldi. If were to root out this cancer [of antisemitism] as Lt. Gov. Patrick states, those efforts begin with Matt Rinaldis resignation as Chair, the Texas speaker wrote.

Dade Phelans beer goggles have prevented him from seeing the truth, Rinaldi shot back, referring to allegations by the Paxton camp that Phelan presided over the House drunk. Phelans office has dismissed those accusations as a last ditch effort to save face amid the Texas Houses investigation into Paxton.

I have been a lifetime supporter of Israel and denounced Nick Fuentes from the moment I first became aware we were in the same zip code, Rinaldi said, before accusing Phelan of the backstabbing of Republicans and empowerment of Democrats.

Support for Israel doesnt negate allegations of antisemitism. Fuentes, for example, has said that all he wants is revenge against my enemies and a total Aryan victory  a position that leaves little room for Americas approximately 8 million Jews, a community larger than Israels Jewish population.

Antisemitic tropes have long been a feature of the far right in Texas. In one recent example, then-Rep. Paxton mounted a right-wing campaign against Straus  the first Jewish member to hold the Texas House Speakership  in 2010, with Paxtons supporters in state Republican leadership circulating emails arguing that Straus should be replaced by a Christian.

We elected a house with Christian, conservative values, then-State Republican Executive Committee member John Cook wrote, according to emails obtained by the nonpartisan Quorum Report. We now want a true Christian, conservative running it. This is not about Straus, this is about getting what the people want.

At the time, Paxton sought to distance himself from these remarks  while scolding those publicizing them.

There is absolutely no place for religious bigotry in the race for Texas Speaker, and I categorically condemn such action, Paxton said, noting it is just as shameful for anyone to imply that I would ever condone this type of behavior.

Responding to Phelans call Monday for Rinaldi to resign, Paxton remained pugnacious.

Matt has been a warrior to the conservative cause and I stand by him, he wrote on X.

Paxton wrote that he and Rinaldi share similar values that include standing strong in support of Israel, and against Speaker Phelan appointing BLM-supporting Democrats to House leadership.

The liberal speaker and RINO establishments attempts to say otherwise are pathetic, he added, using the acronym for Republicans in Name Only.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
An appeal has been launched to raise money for people affected by flooding caused by Storm Babet.

South Yorkshire's Community Foundation said around 165 homes in the county had been damaged, with the village of Catcliffe near Rotherham worst affected.

Michelle Dickinson from the foundation said the emphasis would be on helping people who did not have insurance.

The online appeal has so far raised more than 17,500.

About 120 properties in Catcliffe were flooded, with a number also affected in the Treeton area.

In Barnsley, 25 properties in Lundwood and Ings Lane Caravan Site were flooded, according to Barnsley Council.

Ms Dickinson described the appeal as "vital" and said the flooding of people's homes was a "really, really evil thing".

"We completely understand the heartache that is caused by this devastating loss of property due to the flood water," she said.

The online appeal has raised more than 17,500 so far

She added that many people did not have flood insurance "for lots of different reasons".

"It may be they don't have the finances to insure their properties," she said.

"But a lot of it is that they can't gain insurance as they've been flooded before."

"We know that it makes a huge difference for them to know that the local community is behind them, supporting them."

The charity launched similar appeals after flooding hit South Yorkshire in 2007 and 2019.

Last Friday's storm caused widespread flooding across the UK and saw some parts of Yorkshire receive double the average monthly rainfall in a 24 to 36-hour period, the Environment Agency said.

Some residents in Catcliffe levelled criticism at the authorities for a perceived "lack of support".

Both Rotherham and Barnsley councils have offered payments of up to 350 for people whose homes have been flooded.

Meanwhile, the government said households in affected areas could apply for up to 500 to help with immediate costs.

Follow BBC Yorkshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram. Send your story ideas to yorkslincs.news@bbc.co.uk.
Rusty bits of rail track and other rubble are virtually all that remain on the site of the former Svea coal mine which operated from 1917 until 2020 (Viken KANTARCI)

At the old Svea mine in the Arctic, broken railway tracks overgrown with weeds lead nowhere. Of the hundred buildings that once made up the town, there's almost nothing left.

Coal brought fortune to Norway's Svalbard archipelago, but that bonanza became a curse for the remote group of islands, now the most harmful fossil energy for the climate.

Svalbard, today home to 3,000 people and located in the fastest-warming region on the planet, is bit by bit erasing all traces of its mining past.

A 40-minute helicopter flight from the main town of Longyearbyen, the Svea mine and its surrounding settlement have been returned to Mother Nature after a massive, recently-completed restoration project.

"At its peak there were barracks for 300 people, with a canteen, an airfield with 35,000 passengers yearly, a power plant, a workshop, and storage," said Morten Hagen Johansen, in charge of the project at the mine where he was once employed.

The Svea site is the biggest natural restoration ever undertaken in Norway.

Only a handful of man-made objects remain, preserved because they are considered historic.

They include a few dilapidated brick buildings, a rusted track vehicle, and railway tracks that once transported wagons loaded with coal.

The area "was home to many miners who were working here for decades," Hanna Geiran, head of the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage, told AFP.

"Preserving these artefacts helps to better understand what this place was," she added.

- Avalanches -

The mine was opened by a Swedish company in 1917 and officially closed 100 years later after producing 34 million tonnes of coal.

The site has since been returned to its natural state at a cost of around 1.6 billion kroner (about $140 million) to the Norwegian state.

"The concept is to try to let nature take it back," said Hagen Johansen.

"That means to let creeks run freely. To make sure that avalanches do happen, because that will transport more sediment down and it will make new creeks."

The part of the Barents Sea where the Svalbard archipelago is located is warming up to seven times faster than the rest of the planet, according to a study published in

last year.

At Svea, a spectacular landslide recently created a deep crevasse down a hilly slope.

"It is the result of a very heavy rainfall last summer where they got maybe 50-60 millimetres (2-2.3 inches) of rain in just 24 hours," geologist Fredrik Juell Theisen said.

"That was very unusual before climate change started changing the climate up here," he added.

- Russian presence -

The climate backlash isharshfor the archipelago now trying to rid itself of fossil fuels.

Seven other mines located in the hills of Longyearbyen have almost all been closed, with the last one due to shut in 2025.

The town also disconnected its coal plant for good this month in exchange for a less-polluting diesel plant, ahead of a transition to renewable energies at a later stage.

Going forward, Svalbard's economy will rely on tourism and scientific research.

The only coal still being mined on the archipelago will be a vein in Barentsburg, a Russian mining community with just under 500 Russians and Ukrainians, most of them from the Donbas region.

Under the 1920 international treaty that recognises Norway's sovereignty over Svalbard, all signatories are entitled to exploit the region's natural resources equally.

As a result, Russia has for decades maintained a mining community om Svalbard, via the state-run company Trust Arktikugol, in a strategic region belonging to a NATO member.

According to some observers and Russia itself, strict environmental regulations that Norway has introduced in the region -- about two-thirds of Svalbard land is protected in one way or another -- are at least partly aimed at limitingRussia's uncomfortable presence.

It's impossible to know whether such considerations played into Oslo's decision to restore the Svea mine at great cost, said Mats Kirkebirkeland of Norwegian think tank Civita.

"But there's no denying that some of the Norwegian environmental policies and the geostrategic policies on Svalbard are aligned."

vk-phy/po/cw/jm
'We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations,'said Pashinyan (Handout)

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Thursday he hoped to sign a peace agreement with Azerbaijan in the coming months, after Baku recaptured Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic-Armenian separatists in September.

Yerevan and Baku have been locked in a decades-long conflict for control of Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated region of Karabakh.

Baku reclaimed the mountainous enclave in late September in a 24-hour offensive that ended decades of Armenian separatist rule.

"We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months," said Pashinyan.

The future peace treaty would be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbours' Soviet-era borders, he told an international economic forum in the Georgian capital Tbilisi.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year.

Yerevan had expressed fears that energy-rich Baku might try to press its advantage.

Its concern is that it might - with the help of ally Turkey -- seek to forcibly connect its Nakhichevan exclave with Azerbaijan proper by capturing lands in southern Armenia, the so-called Zangezur corridor along the Iranian border.

It has also accused Baku of "ethnic cleansing" as almost all of Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population -- some 100,000 people -- fled for Armenia after Baku's lightning offensive, sparking a refugee crisis.

- Scepticism over Western mediation -

Pashinyan said Armenia was ready "to open, reopen, rebuild, build all regional communications" if its sovereignty over the area is not questioned.

Baku has vowed to ensure the rights of Karabakh's Armenians are protected. It has denied having any territorial claims to Armenia, saying it could set up a land link with Nakhichevan via Iran instead of Armenia.

Pashinyan also said Thursday that he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats "in the near future".

Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan.

In 2020 and in the 1990s, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought two wars for control of Karabakh, which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but home -- at least until recently -- to a majority ethnic-Armenian population.

With the traditional regional power broker Russia bogged down in its Ukraine war, the European Union and United States have taken a lead role in brokering an Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty.

But the talks have so far failed to produce a breakthrough and Aliyev has recently expressed scepticism about Western mediation efforts.

Citing France's "biased position," he refused to attend another round of peace talks with Pashinyan in Spain earlier in October. They had been due to take place under the mediation of the EU chief Charles Michel, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Aliyev said peace talks with Yerevan could be held in Georgia "if Yerevan agrees", but Pashinyan -- who is keen on Western mediation -- rejected the idea.

On Monday, Iran and Russia denounced Western "interference" in tensions between Yerevan and Baku at a foreign ministers' meeting in Tehran that also included top diplomats from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.

im/jj
In the sleepy town of Lewiston, Maine, parents and children were enjoying a children's bowling league at Just in Time Bowling on Wednesday night, October 26, 2023, when gunfire erupted.

The Lewiston Police Department confirmed two active shooting incidents took place at locations less than 4 miles apart: Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant and Just in Time Bowling (previously named Sparetime Recreation). A local councilor who spoke to CNN said the death toll could be as high as 22.

An eyewitness, identified only as Brandon, recounted his experience at the bowling alley, saying, "Well we were inside, just a normal night of bowling and out of nowhere he just came in and there was a loud pop. I thought it was a balloon. I had my back turned to the door and as soon as I turned and saw that it was not a balloon, he was holding a weapon, I just booked it down the lane and I slid basically into where the pins are and climbed up in the machine and was on top of the machines for about 10 minutes until the cops got there."

https://twitter.com/AG_Journalist/status/1717501303264522336

Ten-year-old Zoey Levesque, who was at the bowling alley with her mother, told WMTW-TV she was grazed by a bullet.

Its scary, she said. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

According to the AP, a police bulletin identified 40-year-old Army Reservist, Robert Card, as a "person of interest" in the Maine shooting. Card is a firearms instructor believed to be assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine, less than an hour from Lewiston.

The document said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base. Card is believed to be armed and dangerous, and a massive manhunt is underway in New England. Local schools and businesses are closed with a Shelter-in-Place order in effect.

Eric Gordon, a school representative from the University of Maine told NBC news early on Thursday that Card was a student there from 2001 to 2004 and studied engineering.

Maine documented only 17 gun homicides in 2021. Yesterday's death toll in the Maine shooting is believed to be at least 22.

According to their official city website, Lewiston, Maine, is a growing city full of possibility. Vibrant and culturally diverse with a strong sense of community, Lewiston delivers affordable, accessible and abundant opportunity.

This story is developing.

If you or a veteran you know are struggling with mental health, please call 488 for the help you deserve. According to the VA, over 1.7 million Veterans received mental health services at VA last year. Services range from peer support with other veterans to counseling, therapy, medication, or a combination of these options. Their goal is to, "help you take charge of your treatment and live a full and meaningful life."

To connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night:

Call 988 .

Text 838255 .

Start a confidential chat .

If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889 .

Lewiston, Maine
A huge manhunt is being carried out in Maine for the US Army reservist suspected of murdering 18 people and injuring 13 others in a mass shooting.

Hundreds of police officers and FBI agents are searching for Robert Card, who is said to be armed and dangerous.

Schools and businesses have closed and people have taken shelter as far as 50 miles (80km) away from the scenes of Wednesday's shootings in Lewiston.

On Thursday night, police raided a property in neighbouring Bowdoin.

Part of the search played out on live TV as police executed warrants in the town, which is around a 20-minute drive from Lewiston.

Over a megaphone, police were heard shouting for Mr Card to surrender and to come out of a house "with your hands up".

After a few hours, police departed the scene.

It is unclear what prompted the search, and an official said police were "simply doing their due diligence by tracking down every lead in an effort to locate and apprehend Card".

Wednesday's bloodshed marked the worst mass shooting in the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which counts those where four or more people are killed or injured, excluding the gunman.

The mass shooting is considered to be the worst recorded in Maine. One of the US' least populous states, it has high levels of gun ownership but relatively low levels of gun violence. The number of victims nearly matches the state's total homicides for all of 2022.

The shooting prompted the area's representative in the US Congress, Marine Corps veteran Jared Golden, to publicly call for a ban on assault weapons. A moderate Democrat, he previously voted against a ban on Capitol Hill.

"The time has come for me to take responsibility for this failure," said Mr Golden, a Lewiston native. "Which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing".

The search for Mr Card - which is taking place over land, water and air - has now entered its third day.

The shooting began at a bowling alley in the small town of Lewiston just before 19:00 local time (23:00 GMT) on Wednesday, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said. One woman and six men were killed there.

Within about 10 minutes, gunfire was reported at a nearby restaurant, Schemengees Bar & Grille, where eight more men were fatally shot.

Sixteen injured people were initially transferred to local hospitals, three of whom later died.

Lewiston and three nearby towns have remained under a shelter-in-place notice with the suspect at large. Schools as well as most local businesses have closed and many will remain so on Friday.

Beyond a few dog walkers, most people appeared to have stayed at home on Thursday. Police are posted on the streets.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The only bustles of activity were near the two shooting sites and the Central Maine Medical Center.

Dr John Alexander, the chief medical officer there, called the attack "unprecedented" for the small city. He said about 50 medical providers, nurses, respiratory therapists and surgeons answered the call to help treat the victims.

Maine State Police said the suspect had recently reported mental health issues, including "hearing voices and threats to shoot up a military installation in southern Maine".

He had reportedly been admitted to a mental health treatment facility in the summer, after behaving erratically during training at the US Military Academy.

In an interview with NBC News, the suspect's sister-in-law, Katie Card, said that family members had reached out to police and the Army to report he was experiencing an "acute" mental health crisis.

This reportedly included a "manic belief" that voices were saying "horrible" things about him.

"He was just very set in his belief that everyone was against him all of a sudden," Ms Card said.

Police denied earlier reports that he was a firearms instructor, saying there was "no indication he attended advanced weaponry courses".

Maine's Governor Janet Mills, a former Lewiston resident, called it a "dark day" for her state and pledged "to seek full justice for the victims and their families".

The FBI and other federal US law enforcement agencies are aiding local and state police in the manhunt. Neighbouring states are also providing resources and remaining vigilant, as the suspect could have travelled across state lines.

Canadian border officials have also been warned to be on alert for the suspect.

In a Facebook post, Schemengees Bar & Grille wrote: "In a split second your world gets turned upside down for no good reason. We lost great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this."

Just-In-Time Recreation, where the attack first began, posted online: "None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is... There are no words to fix this or make it better."

President Joe Biden ordered flags at the White House and other federal buildings to be lowered to half-mast as a mark of respect for those who died.

He also called on Republican lawmakers in Congress to pass gun safety legislation.

"This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars  physical and mental  of this latest attack," he said.

Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, Maine Senator Susan Collins called for a ban on high-capacity magazines.

"Our hearts are heavy with grief," she told reporters. "This heinous attack, which has robbed the lives of at least 18 Mainers and injured so many more is the worst mass shooting that the state of Maine has ever experienced and could ever imagine."

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Editor's note: This story was updated to correctly identify the type of judge who determines whether probable cause for an arrest exists.

The city of Austin might soon change what happens after someone is arrested  namely, where the person is held and how bail is set.

As the Austin Chronicle first reported in late September, the Austin Police Department is spearheading a virtual magistration pilot program, which will test a new way of processing people who have been arrested. In this program  which police say will begin late this year or early next year  the Police Department will retain custody of arrestees, and the city will conduct virtual bail hearings.

Critics of the plan, including prominent defense attorneys, say that key stakeholders werent consulted. They are frustrated by what they see as an attempt to undercut a yearslong push to provide defense counsel at bail hearings.

A police spokesperson, who disputed claims that public officials weren't included in planning, said that the program was born out of a desire to save the city money.

Magistration in Travis County, which currently occurs without a prosecutor or defense lawyer present, has become a contested process. Civil rights advocates argue that the U.S. Constitution provides for representation at all stages of the legal process, including bail hearings.

Legal experts who spoke to the American-Statesman said that magistration is a crucial step in the criminal legal process. Whether someone remains in jail, and under what conditions, has a considerable impact on the outcome of the case. Advocates also said that even a brief stint in jail can affect someones housing, employment and child custody status.

Then-Austin Police Chief Joe Chacon, third from right, is joined by other officers May 26 at the scene of a deadly police shooting in Southeast Austin. A pilot program will change the process for some people after they are arrested.

What happens after an arrest?

Currently, after police make a warrantless arrest  for example, if officers arrest someone on the street who they think is in the process of committing a crime  they must complete a probable cause affidavit. This document explains the circumstances of the arrest and lays out a brief summary of what the officers observed. The Police Department transfers the arrestee to the Travis County Jail, where the person enters the custody of the Travis County sheriffs office.

Until recently, probable cause affidavits went straight to a municipal judge, who evaluated whether there was enough information to charge someone with a crime. A prosecutor might not see the affidavit until days after the arrest.

In spring 2021, the offices of the district attorney and the county attorney instituted a process of evaluating the affidavits for probable cause, adding what proponents say is a valuable legal checkpoint. The district attorney's office calls this process arrest review, and the county attorney's office calls it early case review. If the staff attorney signs on, the affidavit goes to a municipal judge for approval.

Afterward, the arrestee appears before a municipal judge for a process called magistration. At this hearing, the judge sets the bail amount and release conditions. Without lawyers present, the judge makes decisions using the probable cause affidavit and documents prepared by the countys pretrial services division.

The pretrial services division reviews an arrestees previous charges and collects information about housing and employment status. Family members, witnesses and victims might be interviewed. Per the 2017 Sandra Bland Act, a mental health screening should also be conducted.

This is intended to enable judges to make informed decisions about release. But proponents for counsel at first appearance say that, though pretrial services play a crucial role, people still need legal representation at bail hearings.

Austin interim Police Chief Robin Henderson briefs the media on a deadly shooting at the Arboretum shopping center Aug. 31. A pilot program would streamline the post-arrest process in some misdemeanor and felony cases.

What could change?

In an interview with the Statesman, Austin Police Department Chief of Staff Jeff Greenwalt said that the magistration pilot program  which he called a research project  would streamline the post-arrest process.

The program will be implemented on only two patrol shifts out of 65, according to Greenwalt. There is no estimate for the duration of the program.

On these shifts, the department will retain custody of people after their arrest and hold them at police headquarters. If the program expands citywide, Greenwalt said police would have to find other locations to hold people.

Though a probable cause affidavit would still be completed, officers would circumvent arrest review and go straight to a municipal judge for approval.

Arrest review has been a point of contention between police and the county and district attorneys offices. Representatives of a law enforcement union told the Statesman that officers have been frustrated by what they see as prosecutors refusing charges for certain low-level crimes.

Greenwalt said that arrest review is not a motivation for the pilot program. He pointed out that currently police can get around prosecutors by bringing the probable cause affidavit directly to a municipal judge. But arrest review happens the overwhelming majority of the time, he said.

Under the pilot program, the magistration hearing would happen virtually and much sooner after arrest, while the person remains in police custody. Greenwalt said that the city would have to facilitate pretrial services, which are currently run by the county, but details on how are still in the works.

The pilot program would involve only cases that are not overly complex, Greenwalt said, though it would deal with both misdemeanor and felony charges.

The pilot project came from a purely financial standpoint, according to Greenwalt, and is a way of exploring methods that are less costly  at least for the Police Department. According to Greenwalt, the current process requires the city to sign a contract with Travis County, which arranges for the intake and detention of arrestees. Greenwalt said that the interlocal agreement cost the city $7 million last year and rose to more than $9 million this year.

Austin police and EMS personnel meet at Great Hills Baptist Church for a media briefing on a deadly shooting at the Arboretum shopping center Aug. 31. Some say a pilot program to change the post-arrest process will hurt efforts to provide people with legal counsel at their first court appearance.

A step in the wrong direction?

Defense lawyers who spoke to the Statesman said that the pilot program doesnt address pressing problems with the current magistration system  and might make them worse.

City officials and local attorneys have worked for several years toward reforming magistration in Austin and providing arrestees with representation during the earliest stages of the legal process.

The movement is part of a statewide push for counsel at first appearance. Through litigation, constitutional concerns have been raised about bail practices in Harris, Dallas and Galveston counties. In 2019, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction in the Galveston County class action suit, ordering that the county provide lawyers at bail hearings.

Nathan Fennell, an attorney at the Texas Fair Defense Project, said that legal representation at a bail hearing is crucial to protecting an arrestees civil rights.

Adeola Ogunkeyede, head of Travis County's fledgling public defender's office, said that the current system in Travis County is a "faulty, unconstitutional process." She said that magistration without representation does not leave "space for individual assessment of someone's circumstances, their ability to pay ... and in what ways their lives will be deeply implicated and affected."

Advocates for counsel at first appearance said that it also comes with a benefit to public and victim safety.

Judges with more information and with more arguments are better able to determine who should be released pretrial, Fennell said.

Though a pilot program testing counsel at first appearance in Travis County was short-lived, advocates say that the city is still working toward it. Angelica Cogliano, an Austin defense attorney, said that the pilot program would move the city backward.

Bradley Hargis, executive director of the Capital Area Private Defender Service, said that the pilot program seems to leave little room for pretrial services to provide judges with crucial information about arrestees. Pretrial services go to work in the time between arrest and magistration, and the pilot program seems to condense the timeline.

What makes the virtual magistration program alarming, Hargis argued, is that it seems focused on police efficiency rather than public safety.

In response to concerns that the pilot program would interfere with plans to institute counsel at first appearance, Greenwalt said, "This is not a step backwards. It's merely just a different way of doing the same thing."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Arrested in Austin? Virtual bail hearings might be coming soon
The Orion spacecraft for the moon mission Artemis 2 comes together at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Technicians joined the European service module with the crew module at the Neil Armstrong Operations & Checkout Building Oct. 19.

NASA's first moon spacecraft for astronauts in 50 years is coming together.

The Orion spacecraft for Artemis 2 , set to fly around the moon in 2024 with a crew of four, saw its crew and service modules joined at NASA on Oct. 19. Next will come a rigorous series of tests to ready it for the big lunar journey, agency officials said in a statement.

"The team will power up the combined crew and service module for the first time," NASA officials stated on Oct. 23 . "After power-on tests are complete, Orion will begin altitude chamber testing, which will put the spacecraft through conditions as close as possible to the environment it will experience in the vacuum of deep space ."

Related: How Artemis 2 astronauts are training for their 2024 moon mission

The Orion spacecraft includes the European Space Agency 's (ESA's) service module built by Airbus Defence and Space, which provides electricity, propulsion, air and water; a U.S. crew module led by Lockheed Martin that will house the four astronauts; and a U.S. crew module adapter that joins the service and crew modules together and connects their electrical, data and power systems.

ESA's service module arrived at NASA's Kennedy Space Center about two years ago, in October 2021, undergoing tests ahead of the big join at the Neil Armstrong Operations & Checkout Building nearby the Florida launch pad.

a large section of a spacecraft stands upright in a room surrounded by towers of speakers. white coat people walk about.

"Two important tests include the thermal cycle test  which assessed how well the spacecraft will withstand the extremes of temperature  and the direct field acoustic test (DFAT), which assessed how well the spacecraft will withstand the vibrations of its launch to the moon," ESA officials wrote in their own statement Tuesday (Oct. 24), noting the joining of the modules is a milestone as the U.S. and European-made modules are now communicating with each other.

The crew and service modules are connected at six points surrounding the crew module's heat shield, ESA officials added. "Data and power connections and pipes for fluids between the sections are routed to go around the heat shield instead of crossing it," they added.

In 2024, ESA's statement added, more construction milestones will accrue: Adding the solar wings, filling the tanks with propellant, then connecting the completed Orion with the launch abort system that will rocket astronauts to safety in the event of an anomaly. All of this will be mounted on NASA's powerful Space Launch System rocket for launch day.

an illustration of a the orion spacecraft, service module and stage connector broken into eatch component, with lables and indicatory lines

Astronaut training is continuing for Artemis 2. Coming up soon will be Earth orbit operations at NASA's Johnson Space Center , such as camera training for geology operations. Medical training and a simulated recovery exercise for splashdown day are coming up soon as well, NASA officials wrote in an Oct. 19 statement . Other big checkmarks of note in recent weeks include a liftoff dress rehearsal and geology training .

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The four astronauts aboard Artemis 2 include NASA commander Reid Wiseman , NASA pilot Victor Glover (the first Black person to leave low Earth orbit ), NASA mission specialist Christina Koch (the first woman) and Canadian Space Agency mission specialist Jeremy Hansen (the first non-American).

Canada is a part of the NASA-led Artemis Accords , which cover both moon exploration and peaceful norms of working in space. Hansen's seat (and seats for other missions) come thanks to the country's contribution of Canadarm3, a robotic arm slated to work on NASA's future Gateway space station orbiting the moon.

Artemis 2 is the second in NASA's larger Artemis program . An uncrewed mission called Artemis 1 flew around the moon and back in 2022. Next up will be a crewed landing mission, Artemis 3 , set for 2025 or 2026 depending on the progress of spacesuits and the landing system.
[Source]

An Asian Studies class at the University of California (UC) Berkeley offered extra credit to students if they attended a student walkout to show solidarity with Palestine.

Extra credit: In the now-viral email shared on X, teaching assistant Victoria Huynh instructs students to participate in a "national student walkout" against the "settler-colonial occupation of Gaza. Huynh also encouraged students to watch a short documentary on Palestine or contact their local California representative regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Additionally, students were required to provide photo proof of their participation in the extra credit activities.

Participating in these activities would have either contributed to a student's field trip portion of their grade or earn them five extra credit points. Huynh concludes the email by saying she will also dedicate time to discussing Palestinian history in the context of "concepts like colonialism, imperialism and Third World solidarity" in two of her class sections.

Trending on NextShark: Watch: Carefree Asian dad sleeping on plane floor wins praise on TikTok

Huynh, a Ph.D. student in Ethnic Studies, is reportedly an aide in lecturer Harvey Dongs course entitled Asian American Communities and Race Relations, according to the J. The Jewish News of Northern California.

Condemnation from pro-Israel: The post on X has since garnered more than 2.3 million views, drawing condemnation from pro-Israel activists who called it indoctrination.

Another unconscionable attempt to brainwash students, activist David Lange tweeted.

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UC Berkeleys response: On Wednesday, UC Berkeley spokesperson Dan Mogulof told J. The Jewish News that upon becoming aware of the assignment, the university administration acted swiftly to remove it. Mogulof cited a policy from the UC Board of Regents, established in 1970 and amended in 2005, which prohibits the misuse of classrooms for political indoctrination or awarding academic credit for activities unrelated to the courses original purpose.

Generally speaking, awarding academic credit to students for participating in civil disobedience activity, or for deciding not to attend their classes, would, in most circumstances, be misuse of the classroom pursuant to this policy, Mogulof said, adding that the situation has been remedied.

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John Raphael, twice convicted in local public corruption scandals, most recently for taking money to steer a food service contract while a member of the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority, is seen here leaving federal court on June 8, 2016, after being sentenced for his role in the Redflex red light camera contract scandal.

In a fast exchange of legal motions filed in federal court in Columbus earlier this month, an attorney asked that John Raphael  a Clintonville resident twice convicted in local public corruption scandals  be released early from federal prison.

But the attorney, Robert J. Behal, scuttled his request when federal prosecutors pointed out he was basing his request on state, not federal, sentencing law.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Glenn-Applegate also noted in his response that Behal had not yet entered a notice to the court that he was representing Raphael, who was resentenced in July to six months in prison after the 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals found the first sentence of no prison time issued by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson to be lacking an adequate explanation.

Another attorney, Roger Sugarman, had previously represented Raphael at both sentencings before Watson.

Behal's initial request for an early release was filed Oct. 4, documents show.

That motion alleged that the Federal Bureau of Prison's FMC Lexington facility was providing the 68-year-old Raphael inadequate medical care for his conditions, including heart disease. He is incarcerated with about 300 other inmates, increasing the chances of getting COVID, the motion said.

The lockup is an "administrative security federal medical center with an adjacent minimum security satellite camp" in Lexington, Kentucky, that Raphael reported to in August.

The facility also houses violent offenders, and there have been at least nine violent assaults against guards and other inmates, which have been traumatic for Raphael, Behal wrote.

The motion requested that Raphael be brought to Columbus for a hearing, citing the terms of Ohio Revised Code 2929.20, a state law dealing with sentence reductions through judicial release.

However, six days later, Glenn-Applegate responded in a countermotion that Behal was citing "an Ohio state statute that has no applicability in federal court (and was seeking) ... a form of relief not available to federal prisoners."

The release would also be inappropriate, Glenn-Applegate wrote, because Raphael had only served 43 days of a prison term already substantially below federal sentencing guidelines, which called for between 41 months and 51 months.

"Mr. Raphaels motion is filed by the wrong attorney, cites the wrong body of law, and is wrong on the merits," and should be denied, Glenn-Applegate wrote.

Three days after that, on Oct. 13, Behal submitted a two-sentence document asking that his motion be withdrawn.

Behal, the managing partner of Behal Law Group in Columbus, declined comment Thursday afternoon.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Columbus had no comment on the filings, said spokesperson Jennifer Thornton. Prosecutors had indicated the six-month sentence Raphael got in resentencing was far lower than the minimum time he could have received for the event, but they have allowed the window to appeal Raphael's current sentence to expire.

In his first conviction, Raphael, then 60, pleaded guilty to one count of extortion by threats, a violation of the federal Hobbs Act. Raphael admitted that he threatened Redflex red light camera officials with the potential loss of Columbus city contracts and used his influence to persuade them to give money on behalf of elected officials, prosecutors said. He served 15 months in federal prison.

Columbus Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, then a city council member, acknowledged then that he asked Raphael to help him secure a donation from Redflex. Ginther had personally called a Redflex official requesting $20,000 for his campaign, The Dispatch has reported.

In his second prosecution, Raphael was convicted for his role in a bribery scheme where he took money to steer a multi-million-dollar food vending contract at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Raphael was a member of the board of the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority, which owns and operates the convention center, Nationwide Arena, the Hilton Columbus Downtown Hotel and six parking facilities.

Centerplate, a national firm that was bidding for food service contract at the convention center, paid Raphael $144,000 in installments in exchange for secret bid information for the contract and other illegal assistance in steering the contract to them, federal prosecutors say. Raphael's last payment was in the form of a $40,000 "success fee."

It is that conviction for which Raphael is currently serving time. He is currently set to be released from custody in late February.

wbush@gannett.com

@ReporterBush

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Federal prosecutors challenged request to release John Raphael early
Historian Piotr Cywinski came to Ukraine to witness Ukrainian organizations and volunteers documenting evidence of Russian war crimes in Ukraine, as well as testimonies of people who were direct participants in the events of the occupation, war and shelling.

Piotr Cywinski, a Polish historian and director of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, talks about who actually liberated the Nazi death camp, and tries to explain why there is a complete lack of ideology in the Russian military today.

NV met with Cywinski on the sidelines of the Oral History Forum, which was recently held in Kyiv on the initiative and with the support of the Museum of the Voice of the Peaceful Foundation of Rinat Akhmetov.

Cywinski came to Ukraine to examine the documented of evidence of Russian war crimes in Ukraine, as well as hear the testimony of people who were directly affected by the occupation, war, and bombing.

He spoke about how memory can become a hostage to propaganda, about the unlearned lessons of history, the possibilities of museumification of memory, and about the testimonies of victims and aggressors.

NV: How do you think the history and memory of the Holocaust and World War II affect the ability of societies to recognize new crimes against humanity and resist them?

Cywinski: If we compare the wars that are ongoing now with the Second World War, then, given the pain that people experienced, this will not have the desired effect. Every pain is unique. But the history of memory, if we consider the post-war period, can give a lot. If we take the Second World War, then compared to many other wars, it was probably the bloodiest from the point of view of civilians. And it caused a lot of changes that occurred after its conclusion. In different spheres  in the cultural sphere, in the political sphere, in the economic sphere, in the legal sphere, and even in the religious sphere.

Read also: Germany to investigate war crimes committed by Russians in Ukraine

After WWII, enormous civilizational and social changes occurred. Let's take, for example, the creation of the UN or later the creation of the EU. That is, a lot of new legal concepts and social concepts appeared, like the concepts of genocide or crimes against humanity. And it must be said that this post-war period was a kind of starting point from which it all began. When someone again begins to violate the rules that were built or created in the post-war period, if they absolutely trample on the achievements of human thought that were formulated in the post-war period, then they find themselves outside the framework of this post-war justice and norms. For me personally, if someone violates these rules that were formulated in the post-war period, for example, the UN Charter, for me such a country should not be a member of this organization.

Likewise, in ecumenical dialogue, there cannot be a church that blesses such actions of a military nature. Because it was precisely in order to prevent such conflicts that the UN was created in the post-war period, and that is why such ecumenical dialogue took place.

NV: I understand you are hinting at Russia. When historians talk about the transformation of Russia into its current state, they say that communist ideology and the Soviet Union itself were not repudiated in their time, like Nazism. This did not happen in the 90s. Do you really see this as a problem and the reason for the state of Russia today?

Cywinski: I think this is only partially the case. Russia, by and large, consists of many elements that differ from each other. One, as they say, piece, one part is St. Petersburg and Moscow, which have always been an example of a kind of wealth, power, dynamism, and the system. But small provinces or small towns did not participate in any form of government as citizen bodies. This is a completely different element of Russia. These people cannot, or do not fully understand, what it means to be a citizen. They have never traveled the world; they have not seen this world.

Read also: Black Tulip memorial group discusses their work recovering soldiers remains in Donbas

And there is another small Russia where these are small groups that exist, like [the Russian human rights organization that restored the memory of victims of Soviet repression] Memorial, who have experience and a sense of civic responsibility. And all these are different Russias, if you will.

Today, if we look at Russia as a state, then overall we see an apparatus that is operating, namely [Russian dictator Vladimir] Putin and his numerous services. Where are the rest of the state institutions? It seems to me that the lack of decommunization did not greatly influence the passive position of the rest of Russias inhabitants. Rather, it was influenced by a lack of enlightenment and education. Because no one ever told or proved to these people living in Russia that they are citizens of their state. The Tsar, the [Bolshevik] revolution, Stalinism, Putinism  they went through all these stages. And the big problem is that most people do not consider themselves to be active citizens, but rather classify themselves as peculiar serfs, who, being in this system, must cope and come to terms with it to survive. Therefore, condemning communism would hardly work for them.

NV: Russians are passive, and it is even more interesting how Russian propaganda works with them. It is devoid of ideology, clear goals, and does not encourage anything, unlike the propaganda of the Third Reich. All these Zs and Vs don't make any sense. And this propaganda is constantly changing, not explaining, but obfuscating the war. What is its function anyway?

Cywinski: I will talk about propaganda that is aimed at a domestic audience, and not that which is aimed at Western states. In my opinion, propaganda is not the main tool of the Russian government in relation to its citizens. The main tool is fear. In the beginning, the letter Z was not an element of propaganda. There were soldiers, without any symbols, they did not know at all why they were dying. The Russians thought that they would win so quickly that there was no need to mentally prepare the army for combat. And accordingly, after Kyiv held out and the war continued, this letter Z began to play the role of such a symbol, purely from a tactical point of view.

This indicates that there was no ideological preparation of the troops, no preparation in terms of propaganda, because they were not supposed to be the driving force. Rather, the driving force was supposed to be order and fear. And accordingly, for the Kremlin, the tiny protests were more dangerous and what caused their concern, since they were the ones who indicated that people within the country could disagree with what was happening and had no fear. And this is precisely what caused fear in them. So, what follows?

Read also: Russian propaganda retreats as its Avdiyivka offensive stalls, ISW speculates on what comes next

Because the war has continued, the idea ceases to be the driving force, and here the fear of the system and the fear of being killed are already on the scales. This is already a very shaky position. I probably dont remember a single war in recent decades where an army was so unprepared from an ideological point of view. If we take the terrible conflict between Israel and Hamas, then we see, on both sides, communities that are ideologically united into a single whole. The strength of Ukraine lies in its unity because all of Ukraine knows what it is fighting for. On the other hand, there is the Russian army, which has absolutely no idea what it is doing here. And this is very evident in the Western media.

Ukraines message is read and perceived by Western society unambiguously and clearly, but Russian messages are very vague, unclear, and without direction.

NV: How much has Russia today appropriated the memory of WWII and the memory of the allied victory? We see how, for example, it has been difficult for German politicians now to condemn Russia, which defeated Nazism, and perhaps this is the case in other countries. Is it possible to deconstruct this memory of WWII, where Russia is the sole victor over Nazism?

Cywinski: I think this is a rather internal construct, rather Russias perception of itself as the only winner. Americans have a completely different perception of these events. This is, rather, the image of a victorious Red Army soldier that the Russians are trying to impose on everyone in Europe. But to a much greater extent, they are trying to focus on this in Russia itself, considering internal needs. If we take history lessons somewhere in the West, then no one will likely remember the Battle of Kursk. As for the St. George ribbon, it did not take root at all in the West, as no one has accepted it [as a symbol of victory in WWII].

NV: That is, Russia failed to sell this construct to Europeans, despite the monuments to the Soviet soldier in Vienna or Berlin, which were interpreted as monuments to the Russian soldier?

Cywinski: It may be trying to sell it, but no one is buying it. However, this ideology of a single winner is very strong and effective within the country.

Today, Russia is really trying to demonstrate itself as the sole heir to the victories of the Soviet Union. And when I hear that they say that it was the Russians who liberated Auschwitz, I say: no, stop. These were not Russians, these were soldiers of the Red Army. These were specifically the military of two divisions of the so-called Ukrainian Front. Just a few years ago, a document was published in which the composition of this 50th or 60th Army of the Ukrainian Front was presented in detail. Members of all the united peoples of the Soviet Union were there. There were even a few Poles. There were almost 41% Russians, and almost 40% Ukrainians.

NV: Let's go back to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, which collected a lot of evidence of the Holocaust and turned it into powerful exhibits that could change people's worldviews. What are the main features of this memorial museum that Ukraine should adopt?

Cywinski: First of all, for people who visit the museum, it is very important and very powerful that it is an authentic, real place. Because people are in the place where everything happened. The second element is the objects that are concentrated in the museum. Because, for example, you can say in words that 220 thousand children died in Auschwitz, but if a person who visits the museum sees a childs shoe with his own eyes, then his emotions will become much deeper. The third element is very important  the stories of people who survived Auschwitz. It must be said that most of these stories were written down almost immediately after the end of the war. This was first of all done for the purpose of later using this collected material in trials, so that those who saw what happened could act as witnesses. These were the stories of only those who wanted to share information, because there were also those who were silent and did not want to tell anything.

NV: How important is it to collect the full narrative reality of the war? Not only the voices of the victims, but also the voices of the aggressors?

Cywinski: You are talking about a fundamental approach. Not everyone always understands the utility of this. It is subconscious  we always want to hear only the voice of the victim. But eventually questions arise about what caused the appearance of this evil, and how this evil was born and formed. To understand this mechanism, for example, how a young guy from Buryatia arrives, ends up in some Ukrainian village, receives the order do what you want and he begins to rape women and children. If he had come to the same village four years earlier as part of a tour, and they would have told him, for example, do what you want, he probably would not have had these thoughts and desires. If we analyze a small amount of evidence or testimony of these actors, it will be difficult for us to understand the mechanism by which they were guided in their actions, but this knowledge is important.

Read also: Zelenskyy commemorates Babyn Yar victims, underscores never again should not be empty words

In Auschwitz, we have thousands of testimonies of victims, but there are only a few testimonies of those who manned the death camp. Therefore, today it is very difficult to explain what led to these people joining the ranks of the SS. In the final reckoning, the question concerns not so much the victim as the executioner: why was such cruelty shown? There was a victim, she was innocent, she was killed. The anthropological riddle is on the other side. Without examining the fact that we are all empathetically on the side of the victims, it is very important to collect testimonies from Russian prisoners [of war]. Because we need to understand the mechanism of evil.

NV: WWII gave us the terms genocide and crimes against humanity. In your opinion, what new definitions will Russia's war in Ukraine bring us? Is this war genocidal?

Cywinski: It seems to me that the existing terminology is quite sufficient. And there is no need for new terms or definitions. As for genocide, this is a legal area. Politicians and journalists are talking about this topic today, but it seems to me that lawyers should be involved in determining the nature of this phenomenon. This is what the Hague Tribunal is doing, and I believe that it will happen. If I were a lawyer and saw what the Russian army did in Bucha, or somewhere else, then for me these are certainly war crimes and crimes against humanity. Now, this is not enough for us to talk about genocide. But when I combine this with what politicians in the Kremlin say, that Ukraine as a state does not exist, that Ukrainians are not a people and not a nation, if we combine the narratives in the Kremlin with what is happening, then this gives grounds and can indicate signs of genocide. Because there was an order from above, and we see what results it led to below.

Read also: PACE recognizes Holodomor as genocide of Ukrainian people

If we see the possibility of a holistic planned action, then we need to clearly analyze what politicians like Lavrov have said, what speakers have said, what commentators on Russian television have said, what Putin has said, and how this has been directly reflected in actions at the front. That is, then we can already assume that these are markers of genocide. If not, then we will remain within the framework of war crimes for which commanders and their subordinates are held accountable.

NV: The historical memory connecting Ukraine and Poland has both much that unites and divides. How can we reduce the latter and the emotional burden of what separates us?

Cywinski: Only through meetings, conversations, and the desire to understand each other can we reduce this tension. Today Russia is trying to instigate quarrels between Poland and Ukraine, and there is no point in falling for these provocations.

But I'll tell you one anecdote. Professor Israel Gutman, who has unfortunately passed away, was once a prisoner of Auschwitz. He studied the history of Jews in Poland and lived in Poland. He once participated in a conference in Germany: he took a second, and then a third question, when suddenly a student stood up and asked: How do you Jews exist in Poland, since Poland is famous for its anti-Semitism? To which Israel Gutman responded: Both Poles and Jews, we all realize that difficulties exist. But you here at the university in Germany are the last ones who have the right to ask us about this. I think this is also important for our people to remember when someone tries to start a quarrel between them.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Australia has responded to a US request to deploy a Royal Australian Air Force E-7A Wedgetail aircraft in Germany to protect the international flow of aid to Ukraine. It comes into operation this week.

Source: White House; joint statement by the US and Australias leaders

Details: It was said in the statement that the Australian deployment will strengthen the multi-level protection of the international flow of aid to Ukraine and provide early warning of the threat.

The United States also welcomes Australias recent statement that it will provide Ukraine with an additional US$13 million in military aid, including anti-drone and mine clearance equipment.

Quote: "We condemn in the strongest possible terms Russias illegal and unprovoked war against Ukraine. Russias war violates international law, including the UN Charter, and is driving global food and energy insecurity.

We once again call on Russia to immediately, completely, and unconditionally withdraw its forces from within the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine. The United States and Australia are committed to supporting Ukraine to empower it to resolve this conflict on its own terms."

Background:

In July, it was announced that Australia would send a Royal Air Force E-7A Wedgetail reconnaissance aircraft to Germany to patrol routes for the delivery of humanitarian and military aid to Ukraine.

The aircraft is due to be based in Germany from October 2023 for about half a year and will be serviced by around 100 Australian military and support personnel.

The aircraft will be responsible for early warning in the event of any external threats on Ukraines territory regarding the routes of humanitarian and military aid.

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More than 100 fires are burning across Australia

Australia's most serious bushfire season since its so-called "Black Summer" has turned fatal.

As more than 100 fires burned across the country on Thursday, Queensland officials said two people have died in major blazes near the town of Tara.

Two people also died fighting fires in New South Wales (NSW) last week.

Authorities have for months warned a cocktail of conditions means this bushfire season will be extremely dangerous.

In a briefing, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said about 350 people had been evacuated from the Tara region, where an out-of-control fire has so far burned through more than 11,000 hectares of land and destroyed 16 homes.

They said a man died on Tuesday night while trying to protect his property, and a woman died on Wednesday after suffering a cardiac arrest while preparing to evacuate.

Overnight dry lightning storms sparked several new blazes in the same region. Many are under control but one has triggered an emergency warning.

But conditions are likely to worsen again on Thursday, with both temperatures and wind speeds expected to increase.

"[It] will again be another challenging day for us today, as we head into areas of extreme fire danger," Rural Fire Service acting assistant commissioner Peter Hollier said.

Dry lightning near Allora in southern Queensland

Elsewhere, firefighters are also battling to put out blazes in New South Wales (NSW), Victoria and the Northern Territory.

In NSW last week a veteran volunteer firefighter died of a medical episode while on duty in the state's north, and another man died while trying to protect his property on the mid-north coast. Authorities earlier this week said they believe three large fires in that area had been deliberately lit.

Australia has been on high alert for bushfire danger. This is because of years of rain-driven plant growth, which is drying out after the warmest winter on record, and an El Nino-affected summer that promises more hot and dry months.

The country has reeled from disaster to disaster in recent years, as it feels the effects of climate change.

Earlier this month towns in Victoria were threatened by bushfires only to be forced to prepare for floods just hours later.

The current bushfire season also comes after several years of record-breaking floods, which followed the Black Summer bushfires in 2019-20, which themselves followed years of drought

The world's top climate scientists have warned that a future full of worsening disasters is likely unless urgent action is taken to tackle climate change.
Australia has returned to Beijing three historical artefacts that were smuggled out of China.

A dinosaur fossil that is more than 100 million years old and two Tang Dynasty figurines were handed to Chinese officials in Canberra.

Police working at the Australian border had seized the items and referred them to authorities for investigation.

The handover comes shortly before Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's visit to Beijing next month.

"Today we've witnessed how two nations can work effectively together to return cultural property to its rightful home," Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said on Wednesday. "Whether it's items of cultural significance Australia holds or items overseas that belong to us - they should be returned."

The items are:

A fossil of a hyphalosaurus, a long-necked reptile species that lived in north-eastern China between 120 and 133 million years ago

A Tang Dynasty (618 to 907 CE) figurine depicting a rider on horseback playing a wind instrument. These figures were placed in tombs to ensure a safe journey to the afterlife

A Tang Dynasty gilt bronze figurine of the Buddhist deity Avalokitesvara, which was likely an altar piece

In response to BBC queries, an Australian government spokesperson said the fossil was imported in 2020, while the Tang Dynasty items were imported the following year.

The items had been illegally exported from China to other countries before they arrived in Australia. Nobody was prosecuted as there was no evidence the Australian importers were aware the objects had been smuggled out of China, the spokesperson added.

The handover ceremony also saw two other items dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties given to China by the National Gallery of Australia and a private collector.

China's ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian expressed his "heartfelt gratitude" to the Australians at the ceremony, reported news agency Xinhua.

Chinese state media reported that Australia and China have been working closely for the past three years to facilitate the return of illegally imported cultural relics, art items and fossils.

In August, Australia's national gallery returned three 9th and 10th Century bronze sculptures to Cambodia, after a decade-long investigation found that they were stolen.

It was also announced in March that four Aboriginal spears taken by British explorer Captain James Cook and his landing party when they first arrived in Australia in 1770 would be returned to their traditional owners.

In recent months, China has become increasingly vocal in calling for the return of historical artefacts stolen from them, including items currently owned by the British Museum.
New Mexico Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks at Arcosa Wind Towers Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Belen, N.M. Grisham traveled to Australia this week to attend a hydrogen summit and meet with related businesses that may have an interest in expanding to New Mexico. At least one hydrogen business is forging plans to expand to New Mexico. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  An Australia-based company plans to build a campus in New Mexico to expand its research into hydrogen fuel as a heat source for industry, touting a proprietary chemical process without greenhouse gas emissions.

Hydrogen-technology research and developer Star Scientific Limited, which has around 20 employees, signed a letter of intent with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham while she was in Sydney attending a summit Thursday on hydrogen and the energy sector.

Andrew Horvath, global group chairman at Star Scientific, said the new facilities in Albuquerque would scale up research and development of its hydrogen technology for generating heat.

Our system doesnt burn gas, it reacts the gas, said Horvath, describing the proprietary technology in general terms only. It creates an instantaneous reaction whereby you end up with the heat from the excitation energy from those atoms.

Horvath said the company is developing a chemical catalyst system for use in combining hydrogen and oxygen to produce heat directly, with water as a byproduct. The system is different from hydrogen fuel cells that provide electricity, he said.

Star Scientific is currently sponsoring two hydrogen-energy pilot projects in Australia with a food-production company and a plastics-packaging business. They aim to replace heat systems derived from natural gas, reducing emissions of climate-warming pollution in the process.

The New Mexico governor's office said in a statement that the company is looking to acquire enough land to place up to 10 buildings for laboratory research, testing and eventual manufacturing, and possibly qualify for public incentives that underwrite infrastructure investments and job training.

Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, has enthusiastically embraced support for hydrogen-energy ventures to create local jobs. But there's been concern and criticism from environmentalists who say hydrogen presents its own pollution and climate risks depending on production methods and precautions against leaks.

The Biden administration this month selected clean-energy projects from Pennsylvania to California for a $7 billion program to kickstart development and production of hydrogen fuel, a key component of the administration's agenda to slow climate change. Applications that were passed over include a collaborative pitch by New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Wyoming.

Some consider hydrogen clean only if made through electrolysis  splitting water molecules using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, which also is carbon free, as well as nuclear power. Hydrogen also can be produced from methane using heat, steam and pressure, but that brings challenges of storing the carbon dioxide that is generated.

Horvath said Star Scientific chose New Mexico for its expansion based on factors including public investments in education, business incentives and relatively inexpensive labor and land costs.
Editor's note: This story is no longer being updated. To read the updated story, click here.

Washington County sheriff wouldn't say how Argote died

The body of the man who is believed to have killed a Washington County judge has been sent for an autopsy after it was found Thursday near Williamsport.

Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert would not say what appeared to be the cause of Pedro Argote's death, saying he is waiting for autopsy results. Albert said after a news conference Thursday that he expects the autopsy to be done Friday morning by the state medical examiner's office in Baltimore.

Albert said Argote's body was found on private property, used for hunting, in an area near and east of the Pinesburg softball complex. The terrain was heavily wooded and steep. The area has an old quarry and shale pit.

Flanked by Lt. Col. Dan Pickett of the Maryland State Police and Capt. Tom Langston of the Hagerstown Police Department, Washington County Sheriff Brian K. Albert speaks to journalists Thursday after the body of fugitive Pedro M. Argote was discovered near Williamsport.

About 80 people from Maryland State Police, Natural Resources Police and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police  including a state evidence collection team  did a slow, methodical search Thursday morning, finding Argote's body, Albert said in an interview after the news conference.

The sheriff's office previously announced that a search of the old tannery and Cushwa Brick properties had wrapped up early Sunday afternoon after Argote's Mercedes SUV was found in a wooded area off Bottom Road north of Williamsport on Saturday morning.

Albert said Thursday that searching the area had continued and happened in some capacity each day, including using cadaver dogs. Though those dogs were used in the lower area by the Potomac River and not where Argote's body was later found  about a mile northwest from where the SUV was found.

Asked which day the cadaver dogs were out there, Albert told The Herald-Mail he could not immediately pinpoint the day, noting the days were bleeding into each other with the ongoing search since Wilkinson's murder almost a full week ago.

Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert speaks during a news conference Thursday on the discovery of the body of Pedro Argote, who authorities say gunned down county Judge Andrew Wilkinson on Oct. 19.

Talking Thursday afternoon at a new conference after Argote's body was found, Albert said authorities had searched that area "hastily," but returned Thursday to do a more systematic search.

State police offered their help Wednesday for a more systematic search, leading to the search Thursday when Argote was found, Albert said.

"The Washington County community can breathe a little easier this afternoon," Albert said near the start of the news conference Thursday at the Washington County Administrative Building.

Maryland Judiciary makes statement on finding of Argote's body

The court system of Maryland made the following statement in response to the news that the body of the suspect in the murder of a Washington County judge had been found:

"The Maryland Judiciary appreciates the combined efforts of the local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies who have been working tirelessly to protect Judiciary personnel and to bring a conclusion to the search for the suspect in the shooting of Judge Andrew Wilkinson.

"We continue to grieve the loss of our colleague and friend while supporting the Wilkinson family, the judges and staff of the Circuit Court for Washington County, and the entire Hagerstown and broader Washington County community.

"Out of respect to the Wilkinson family, please continue to accommodate their request for privacy during these difficult times."

Argote's body reported found near Williamsport

Authorities have found the remains of Pedro Argote, the fugitive Maryland man wanted in the Oct. 19 killing of a Washington County Circuit Court judge.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office posted on Facebook shortly after 12:30 p.m. Thursday that authorities found a deceased person around 11 a.m. Thursday about a mile northwest of where Argote's Mercedes SUV was found Saturday.

That person has been positively identified as Pedro Argote, the post states.

His body was found in a "heavily wooded area between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road," the post reads.

That area is northwest of Williamsport.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Pedro Manuel Argote, 49, of Frederick, Md., had been wanted for the Oct. 19 shooting death of Circuit Court Judge Andrew F. Wilkinson, who was found shot in his driveway north of Hagerstown. The judge was taken to Meritus Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Argote's silver Mercedes SUV was found Saturday morning on property of the former GST AutoLeather tannery just outside Williamsport. Tactical teams searched the area that day, wrapping up their search early Sunday afternoon.

At that time, the sheriff's office posted on Facebook that, "No further information indicates that Argote is still in the immediate area."

Shortly after 8 a.m. Thursday, the day Argote's body was found, the sheriff's office posted on Facebook that evidentiary searches were being done in the Williamsport area so there was an increased police presence, but that there was no safety concern.

A news conference was planned for Thursday afternoon.

Wilkinson's family is receiving friends at a Hagerstown-area funeral home Thursday afternoon, with the funeral planned for Friday morning at St. Ann Catholic Church.

Background on case

Sheriff Brian Albert, during an Oct. 20 news conference, confirmed that authorities believe Wilkinson was targeted by Argote because Wilkinson ruled earlier that day in a divorce hearing that the mother should have custody of their minor children.

Argote was not at the Oct. 19 hearing in circuit court in downtown Hagerstown, Albert said.

That hearing was the only matter listed for Wilkinson on the court docket that day.

Wilkinson signed an order Thursday saying there was to be no visitation or contact between Pedro Argote and his children, according to the partial judgment in the divorce case. There also was to be no contact between Argote and the children's mother.

Before the shooting: MD judge heard 'shocking' evidence in divorce case hours before his killing, tapes show

The judgment also states the mother was to have "sole use and possession of the family home," property west of Hagerstown, and that Argote was not to enter that property.

Wilkinson was gunned down around 8 p.m. Oct. 19 in his driveway in the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road north of Hagerstown.

Local, regional and federal authorities, including Maryland State Police, Hagerstown Police, US Marshals, Frederick Police and the Frederick County Sheriff's Department, have been assisting in the investigation and search for Argote.

Argote had been living with his family west of Hagerstown, but changed his address twice earlier this year, according to court filings. First he filed a change of address for Martinsburg and then to Frederick, Md.

What we know about fugitive Pedro Argote

In addition to the divorce case in Washington County, there also was a temporary protective order issued against Pedro Argote in June 2022 through Washington County District Court in which a judge ordered Argote not to abuse, threaten to abuse, contact or attempt to contact his wife and four children, according to court records.

More on Argote's history: Police on the hunt for man after Maryland judge killed in his driveway

According to the docket for the domestic violence case, that case was dismissed around the time the temporary protective order expired, at the request of the petitioner. The petitioner was Argote's wife.

"We have responded for verbal domestic assault two times in the last two years," but authorities were not aware of any prior criminal record in Washington County, Albert said at the news conference.

Argote legally owns a handgun, though Albert did not get into what the suspected firearm was in the shooting.

Who was Andrew Wilkinson?

Wilkinson, 52, was a husband and father.

Wilkinson was sworn in as a circuit court judge on Jan. 10, 2020, after being appointed by then Gov. Larry Hogan.

A 1994 graduate of the University of North Carolina, he received his law degree in 1997 from Emory University School of Law and had experience in all levels of Maryland courts from district to the Court of Appeals. His legal experience included real estate, zoning and family law as well as civil litigation.

Before taking the bench, Wilkinson had a solo practice. Prior to that he worked in private practice with land-use attorney Jason Divelbiss.

Judge Wilkinson's funeral: Expect traffic delays Friday on Oak Hill Avenue for judge's funeral

Wilkinson served as an assistant county attorney under then-County Attorney John Martirano from 2006 to 2012.

After law school, Wilkinson became a law clerk at the local circuit court for Judge Frederick C. Wright III and Judges John H. McDowell, W. Kennedy Boone, and Donald E. Beachley.

Asked after his investiture ceremony about becoming a judge in his hometown, Wilkinson said, Its an honor and its humbling, and Im happy to serve.

Wilkinson said he wanted to become a judge to serve the community.

He was one of six current circuit court judges in Washington County.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Sheriff mum on death of suspect in slaying of Judge Wilkinson
United Auto Workers members walk the picket line during a strike at the Stellantis Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, in Sterling Heights, Mich., Monday, Oct. 23, 2023. A tentative agreement was reached on Wednesday pending approval by union members. | Paul Sancya, Associated Press

Since members of the United Automobile Workers union went on strike in August, negotiations have been underway between the two groups. On Wednesday night, a tentative agreement has been met between negotiators and awaits approval from union workers.

The new four-year contract would include the following benefits, per The Associated Press:

A general wage increase of 25%

Cost of living raises

With the cost of living pay increase, union workers would receive more than a 30% pay increase.

This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry. Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country, said U.A.W. President Shawn Fain, per AP.

U.A.W. posted a video on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, calling the agreement that happened on the 40th day of the strike historic.

In our union, the members are the highest authority, said Fain. That means we have a process for rolling out the details of the agreement and making sure every member gets a chance to make an informed decision.

A Facebook Live will detail the tentative agreement to members in the near future.

Record profits mean record contracts. We have a tentative agreement at Ford. #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/Z00T5CfQJN  UAW (@UAW) October 26, 2023

Ford also released a statement confirming that the agreement will be instated after U.A.W. represented employees complete the ratification process.

We are focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again, said Ford in the statement.

Related

How many U.A.W. workers are on strike?

U.A.W. has been negotiating with General Motors and Stellantis, in addition to Ford, reported The New York Times. Between the three big companies, 45,000 workers have been on strike.

Its unsure how the negotiation with Ford will affect negotiations with the other two vehicle manufacturers, since this is the first time the union has battled three different companies at the same time, per the Times.

President Joe Biden made an appearance at a rally last month in support of the union workers. On the social media platform X, he said hed go to Michigan to join the picket line and stand in solidarity with the men and women of UAW as they fight for a fair share of the value they helped create.

He said, Its time for a win-win agreement that keeps American auto manufacturing thriving with well-paid U.A.W. jobs.
A Barcelona bakery has been ordered to pay more than 20,000 to a worker who was fired after being caught urinating in mixing bowls.

Catalonias High Court ruled that Neucroissant had acted unlawfully when it dismissed the woman after citing evidence gathered by a surveillance camera in a changing area used by staff.

Footage captured by the CCTV had shown the woman, who has not been named, crouching down and urinating on several occasions into various containers used to produce the bakerys goods.

Neucroissant said it had hired the services of a detective company to catch the worker out.

The firm verified how the woman had squatted, [and] urinated inside a bowl while at work, the bakery said.

It alleged she had thrown the contents of the bowl containing her urine into a sink, before rinsing it in water and depositing it with the rest of the clean utensils that were later to be used in production tasks for the consumption of customers.

The woman, who has not been named, received a dismissal letter while on sick leave in the summer of 2018, a decision she decided to challenge in the courts.

The court heard that the bakery, which made cakes and bread, did not have a designated changing room, meaning workers had to change in an area also used for production.

Under Spanish law, cameras cannot be installed in areas intended for employees rest and recreation, such as changing rooms, lavatories and dining rooms. Filming in such places constitutes an invasion of a persons right to privacy.

The court noted in its ruling that employees had not been informed of the installation of the CCTV camera.

The bakery tried to argue that the recording was legitimate as the area concerned was used for food production, but the court rejected the claim due to the mixed use of the space.

It ordered Neucroissant to pay the woman 25,336 (21,100) in compensation for pay not received as a result of her dismissal.

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.
FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried took the stand in his criminal fraud trial Thursday in New York, but the judge announced jurors would be sent home for the day.

Judge Lewis Kaplan sent the jurors home so he could hear parts of Bankman-Frieds testimony and decide what the jury would be allowed to hear, The Associated Press (AP) reported.

Bankman-Fried will testify Friday to share his version of how his multibillion dollar cryptocurrency company collapsed and caused major losses.

It appeared that Bankman-Fried was going to testify before the jury Thursday, but Kaplan changed plans and said he wanted to decide what Bankman-Fried could testify about, the AP reported.

Were in the home stretch, Kaplan told jurors.

Defense lawyers asked Kaplan to acquit Bankman-Fried on Thursday on the grounds that prosecutors had failed to present sufficient evidence, which was rejected.

Bankman-Frieds criminal trial began Oct. 2 in a Manhattan courthouse. He faces charges for orchestrating what prosecutors have described as one of the biggest financial frauds in American history.

The FTX founder, 31, was once valued at $32 billion until his companys collapse last year. He was arrested in the Bahamas in December and charged with various fraud and conspiracy charges. He faces charges for wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, securities fraud, money laundering and conspiracy to make unlawful political contributions and defraud the Federal Election Commission.

He also faces charges including securities fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud and conspiracy to bribe foreign officials in another trial that is scheduled for March 2024.

Prosecutors allege Bankman-Fried used customer funds to prop up his cryptocurrency firm Alameda Research and fund political campaigns. Prosecutors also say he made misleading statements to investors about FTXs financial condition.

Bankman-Frieds defense counsel, Mark Cohen, previously said the former crypto businessman would take the stand to defend himself against the prosecutors claims that he defrauded investors and stole from customers.

Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to seven counts of federal fraud and conspiracy surrounding FTX and sister company Alameda Research. Several members of his executive team have testified against him in the weeks since the trial began, including his ex-girlfriend and former Alameda Research CEO Caroline Ellison.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
According to Banks County Sheriffs Office, an educator was arrested after an investigation uncovered his relationship with a juvenile.

The sheriffs office posted on Wednesday that Jon Harvey Congdon, 54, was taken into custody

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

BCSO said the arrest happened after the Banks County School System requested an investigation on Oct. 14, regarding an inappropriate relationship between an educator and a student.

After the investigation, the Banks County Sheriffs Office determined the incident was isolated, involving one juvenile victim.

Congdon is being charged with a criminal attempt to entice a minor for indecent purposes.

BCSO said the incident is an active investigation and he may be facing additional charges.

TRENDING STORIES:

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IN OTHER NEWS:
The Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas, has come into world news in recent weeks. And for many, this is the first time theyve heard of the Sunni Islamist political/military organization. (Or the first time in decades.) However, the terrorist group has been in existence since 1987.

Heres what we know about Hamas, including why theyve recently come into the public eye

Hamas is the de facto government of Palestine and holds its headquarters in the Gaza Strip, along the western edge of Israel, which essentially surrounds the states western territory. The two sides have battled over the territory several times over , in multiple wars: 2008-2009, 2012, 2014, and again in 2023. Those are the basics.

A map of the Gaza Strip and its proximity to Israel.

Their name comes from an acronym of Arabic words, HMS, translating to Islamic Resistance Movement .

They believe the State of Israel is illegal and illegitimate. This is stated in their charter. (And likely serves as the motivation toward recent events.) In fact, they have formally committed to destroying Israel, not stopping until every Jew is dead. They want to replace Israel with their Islamic beliefs, though they have stated they will settle with a Palestinian state. Further, they are led by their anti-Semitic beliefs and strong emphasis of jihad, or holy war.

Next, they dont follow the rules of the Geneva Convention . The group has notably attacked children and civilians in their bombing and outside attacks. They dont differentiate between the two; in their eyes, Israeli is Israeli. However, they also sacrifice their own members through suicide bombing.

They dispatched a suicide bombing attack in 2000 but agreed to a truce in 2005. The United States and Israel have placed formal orders for Hamas to stop the attacks, which they have ignored. In 2002, their first female suicide bomber attacked Jerusalem.

Hamas is rumored to have ample firepower, including rockets that are short and long-range, missiles and high-powered guns.

Since 2001, they have averaged three rocket attacks per day. Thats more than 15,000 in total. They use Palestinian children as human shields.

We dont fully know where they get their funding. The U.S. and other countries believe that Hamas is funded by Iran, but neither side has corroborated that claim.

Finally, Hamas has been isolated internationally due to its actions, beliefs, and unwillingness to negotiate.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood," a full-scale rocket attack on Israel by land, air, and sea. The recent attacks have killed more than 1,400 people in Israel.
The demise of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the head of the Wagner Group, in August marks a time of change for the Russian elite. Chechnyas strongman Ramzan Kadyrov is one of the members of the elite most likely to take advantage of the situation to strengthen his own position. In contrast to Prigozhins unpredictability, Kadyrov represents a controllable alternative for Putin given his utter reliance on the Russian President, and thus will be able to provide loyalty and stability through his own private security apparatus. The utilization of this apparatus, however, presents risks for Kadyrov. Therefore, Kadyrov is likely to look to improve his internal political position within Russia in the coming months.

BACKGROUND: At least on the surface, Kadyrov and Prigozhin had an odd relationship. They agreed in large part on how the war should be conducted. It is not hard to see parallels between Prigozhins calls for total war on Ukraine with Kadyrovs calls for jihad against the country. They and their close allies publicly appealed to each other in familiar terms  Adam Delimkhanov referring to Prigozhin as the diminutive Zhenya, and Kadyrov himself referring to Prigozhin as to an elderly brother, a rare manifestation of respect by the Chechen leader. Yet politically, the two were political polar opposites. Prigozhin drifted away from the rest of the elite and political leadership in the course of Wagners deployment to Ukraine. Kadyrov, while despised by the siloviki, has proven to be an indispensable loyalist.



The two traded barbs over their respective involvement in Ukraine, in particular the role of the Kadyrovtsy and the Wagner Group. Prigozhin questioned the ability of Kadyrovs forces to defend the Donetsk and Luhansk Peoples Republics, while Kadyrov spoke against Prigozhins rhetoric over Wagners difficulties in securing Bakhmut. Tensions grew high between them as Prigozhins anti-Shoigu rhetoric escalated. Crucially, one month before the Wagner Coup, as reported by the Institute for the Study of War, there were signs that the Kadyrovtsy would, in effect, replace Wagner as Russias shock troops in the Donbass.



If this was the case, it is not hard to see how this further pushed Prigozhin towards his rebellion. After all, the rivalry was not just a military rivalry but a political one  the deployment of Kadyrovtsy to replace Wagner would scar the PMCs reputation, as well as that of its commander. This goes both ways  in the early days of the invasion, the Kadyrovtsy suffered reputational damage, as did Kadyrov himself with his many publicity stunts. Once seen by many as a formidable and frightening force, it soon turned out that Kadyrovs units were incapable of serious military action, instead earning the reputation of ridiculous TikTok warriors. Additionally, the two represent different foreign policy aims for Putin  Wagner is Russias arm in Africa, while Kadyrov has been instrumental in building relations with the Islamic World (or, at least, the conservative Islamic World).



During Wagners rebellion Kadyrov was, unsurprisingly, willing to offer great levels of assistance to the central government in Moscow. While other governors and republic heads offered vocal support and called for their citizens to leave Wagner, Kadyrov offered military assistance. While this was ultimately never needed, it shows both the degree of Kadyrovs loyalty to Putin and how willing he was to dispose of his rivals military capability. Further, it added to his image as a warrior willing to fight for the righteousness of his cause. Moreover, it further damaged Prigozhins reputation and casted Kadyrov in a much better light, not just to a Chechen audience but to the Russian elites and people. He was defending both the Russian Motherland and the status quo that Russias elites rely on.



IMPLICATIONS: After Prigozhins death, along with Wagner commanders Dmitry Utkin and Valery Chelakov who were also on board the plane, there has been an effort to remove remnants of Wagner from public view: the most prominently displayed instance on social media was the removal of a Wagner cemetery in the south of Russia. Since the crash, the Kremlin has moved to incorporate Wagners forces in Ukraine into the Russian military (while keeping its African operations, which are a key component of Russias policy towards the global south, separate). This has presented Kadyrov with several opportunities.



While several analysts believed Prigozhin to be a dead man walking long before his death, Kadyrov is unlikely to be next, as some on social media claim. In fact, the complete opposite is true. Kadyrov is a pragmatic politician reliant on Putin for his survival and this is exactly the kind of person Putin needs right now. Recently, rumors have been circulating about Kadyrovs health. However, Kadyrov seems to be alive and well for now, and visits paid to a Moscow hospital were apparently to see his ill uncle. While Kadyrov will always prioritize his personal security, if Putin needs something done  for example more troops in Ukraine  Kadyrov will be able to assist. Moreover, if the troops are deployed in circumstances similar to Wagner  outside the formal (and even informal) organization of the Russian military  this would ease contact between Kadyrov and the siloviki who despise him by separating their areas of responsibility. This would also add to Kadyrovs reputational roster; he would be able to channel the ultranationalism Prigozhin so often appealed to while repurposing it into Kremlin loyalism. This can be expected in a system where extreme political viewpoints that the Kremlin finds useful for legitimation are funneled into parties like the LDPR, where they can be used for rhetoric but pose no real danger. Prigozhin, on the other hand, clearly crossed the line by attempting to act on these views.



The most obvious way that Kadyrov may seek to take advantage of this situation is by reigniting the Kadyrovtsys security potential. Wagner was able to serve as a part of the Russian army that the Russian state did not need to oversee. While the Kadyrovtsy are formally part of the Russian Federations Rosgvardia, Kadyrovs personal influence over them, as well as his rule over Chechnya like a medieval fiefdom, means that his troops can fill this void. It will not be the same; Wagners appeal came from a plausible deniability for carrying out unconventional and ruthless tactics that Kadyrov cannot provide. However, Kadyrovs influence over his troops can fill the need for a separate chain of command, meaning that the Russian military leadership can focus their attention elsewhere  especially important given Ukraines counteroffensives and the culling of Russian officers. They would not provide deniability, but would rather free up resources for the Russian Army  despite the possible limited effectiveness of the Kadyrovtsy as a fighting force.



Yet the Kadyrovtsys main appeal to Kadyrov is the security that they provide for him personally. Kadyrov is a target in multiple blood feuds relating to his rule of Chechnya, and his private army provides him with security from these. In the past, Kadyrovtsy have been utilized to attack the homes of the relatives of insurgents. Deploying these troops to the war in Ukraine is a considerable risk for Kadyrov  a gamble with some payoff that could risk his own security apparatus.



Ultimately, Kadyrov will prioritize his reputational and political goals of maintaining his current position as a bare minimum, bolster security for himself and his allies in Chechnya, perhaps pursue some self-gratification in proving himself to Putin whom he views as a father figure, and seeking to further entrench himself in the overall power structure of the Russian Federation. Kadyrovtsy are already deployed in Ukraine and Kadyrov will be reluctant to send large numbers of fighters since it would risk deteriorating the security situation in Chechnya.



CONCLUSIONS: Prigozhins death considerably helped strengthen Kadyrovs weakened position. Kadyrovs hard-built reputation as the leader of a tough military force was damaged due to the rise of the Wagner Group on Ukrainian battlefields. Yet Prigozhins demise, followed by the dissolution of the Wagnerites, saved Kadyrov who is again seen as the single leader of a personal military. Kadyrovs personal loyalty to Putin during the June mutiny has proven to be an important factor, with the Russian president keen to value his loyalists against the backdrop of the first signs of internal cracks in his personalized power structure.



However, given wider political concerns (Kadyrov has very few friends in Russias political elite and a considerable portion of the elite despise him) and security concerns (Russias need to replace depleted manpower while the use of Kadyrovtsy in Ukraine weakens his own standing in Chechnya), this is a moment that requires a weighing up of options. Ultimately, while his status as a loyalist is a big plus for the Kremlin, Kadyrov will almost certainly continue to do what works best for him; talk the talk, play it safe and strengthen his own position.

About the author: Alexander Yeo is a PhD candidate at the University of Glasgow. Emil A. Souleimanov is a professor at Charles University.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  This week, a creature that is often feared is instead being celebrated internationally as various agencies and organizations work to show the important role of bats in nature.

Bat Week, which is recognized from Oct. 24 to Oct. 31, is an annual observation designed to raise awareness about the need for bat conservation, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

White-Nose Syndrome: Fungal disease almost certain death for some Tennessee bat colonies

Although it may not always be easy to spot them, bats are hard at work all around the world each night eating tons of insects like moths, mosquitoes and files, pollinating flowers and spreading seeds that grow new plants and trees.

Worldwide, there are more than 1,400 species of bats, making up almost 20% of all mammal species. Tennessee is home to 16 different species of bats, including species like the tricolored bat and big brown bat, with all being insectivores.

However, various threats have made some species vulnerable, with four types of bats found in Tennessee considered endangered. Amid habitat loss and other factors, a fungal disease that has been spreading across the U.S. since 2007 has had devastating impacts on those species.

6 endangered species in Tennessee that are now considered extinct

In a previous interview, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Biologist Pete Pattavina said white-nose syndrome is causing dramatic declines in multiple species found in Tennessee, and the disease spells almost certain death for species such as northern long-eared bats.

Below is more information on the four endangered bats found in Tennessee and the threats they face.

Gray bat

Gray bat (Courtesy: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

The gray bat is the largest of the mouse-eared bats or Myotis species found in Tennessee, according to the TWRA. As can be assumed from its name, its grayish overall color helps distinguish the gray bat from other Myotis bats.

While it can sometimes look russet in the summer, the gray bat is the only Myotis species that shows a nearly uniform grayish-brown color all the way to the base of the hair, and has the wing attached at the ankle joint.

Nearly 86,000 bats found in East Tennessee cave

Other Myotis bats like the little brown bat and northern long-eared bat can be difficult to distinguish from each other without close examination. Gray bats generally hibernate in deep, vertical caves with large chambers, which act as cold air traps and help reduce predators.

They are mainly found in Eastern and Middle Tennessee, including in most counties bordering Davidson County. While they feed on a variety of insects such as mosquitoes, moths and flies, the TWRA said gray bats are partial to mayflies and stone flies.

The gray bat was added to the U.S. List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants on April 28, 1976, according to the FWS. At the time, the main threats were human disturbance to roosting bats, environmental contamination and roost modification or destruction.

FWS biologists believe much of that was caused by cave commercialization, with gray bats being particularly sensitive to human disturbance through cave entry and exploration, as well as mine sealing and other modifications to cave entrances.

Five animals in TN you might not have known are endangered

Today, the majority of the Tennessee gray bat population uses only eight caves for hibernation, which, according to the TWRA, makes them very vulnerable to habitat destruction. They also face a more recent threat from white-nose syndrome.

However, conservation efforts have benefited the species. The FWS reports that around 70% of biologically significant summering roost sites across the gray bats range are now considered permanently protected.

Indiana bat

Indiana bat (Courtesy: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

The Indiana bat is primarily found in Eastern and Middle Tennessee. They are typically small in size and have a dull, grayish brown to black fur, which is fine and fluffy. When the fur is parted, it appears as a three-color pattern of brownish-black, gray and a cinnamon brown tip.

In Latin, the species is known as Myotis sodalis, which means companion. According to the TWRA, the name refers to the Indiana bats tendency to hibernate in large, dense clusters of up to 500 bats.

Endangered animals in Tennessee: The species being monitored by U.S. Fish and Wildlife

They winter in the largest and coolest limestone caves and prefer areas in the cave with high humidity. While they can be found in urban parts of Tennessee like Shelby County, Indiana bats rarely inhabit buildings or other man-made structures.

The species is called the Indiana bat because the first bat found in 1928 was discovered in Southern Indianas Wyandotte Cave. They eat insects like beetles and caddis flies but have a particular appetite for moths.

The Indiana bat was first listed as in danger of extinction under the Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966 and is currently listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, according to the FWS.

Did you know? Tennessee is home to one of few endangered spiders

Today, the TWRA estimates there are less than 400,000 individuals, with the majority hibernating in only seven caves in Tennessee. The current population has declined by more than half since the species was first listed as endangered.

Threats to the species include human disturbance of hibernating bats, pesticides, loss of summer habitat, and most recently, white-nose syndrome. According to the FWS, the range-wide population has decreased by 19% since 2007, when white-nose syndrome was first detected in North America.

Northern long-eared bat

Northern long-eared bat (Courtesy: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

The northern long-eared bat is a wide-ranging bat species that can be found in 37 states, including across all of Tennessee. Although, its typically less common than other species found in the state.

As its name suggests, the northern long-eared bat is distinguished from the other similar Myotis species by its longer ears. Their wings are also shaped differently from other bats, making them slow flyers, but very good at navigating through forests and hovering to catch insects.

838 acres added to Fall Creek Falls State Park with caves home to bats, miles of streams

According to the TWRA, some northern long-eared bats have been known to live up to 18 years.

These bats mostly spend the winter hibernating in caves and abandoned mines. During summer, the FWS said they roost alone in small colonies underneath bark or in cavities of both live and dead trees. They emerge at dusk to feed on insects such as spiders, beetles, moths and flies.

Although there are many threats to the species such as habitat loss and wind energy-related mortality, the FWS said white-nose syndrome was the main reason for listing the species as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 2015.

Amphibians are the worlds most vulnerable animals and threats are increasing

The northern long-eared bat was reclassified as endangered in 2022 as populations continued to decline. According to the FWS, data indicates that white-nose syndrome alone has caused estimated declines of 97 to 100% in affected populations.

If the disease had not emerged, biologists think it is unlikely the northern long-eared bat would be experiencing such a dramatic population decline.

Virginia big-eared bat

Virginia big-eared bat (Courtesy: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

As of the FWSs last review in 2019, the Virginia big-eared bat is only found in a small portion of Eastern Tennessee, just outside of Johnson City. The species has long, soft fur with an overall brownish color and distinctive long ears.

The species is considered a short-distance migrant, with a home range of around a 20-mile radius, according to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. However, they have sometimes been recorded moving up to 40 miles between summer and winter roosts.

They typically feed over corn fields, pastures, hay fields, small woodlots and large forested tracts, eating everything from beetles and flies to wasps and grasshoppers. However, their favorite food appears to be moths.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

When the Virginia big-eared bat was listed as an endangered species in 1979, biologists believed their population was only around 3,500 bats. However, the population has grown over the years, with the last count in 2018 estimating a population of around 19,500 bats, according to the FWS.

Its the species concentration in a limited number of sites that continues to make it vulnerable to threats like loss and degradation of roosts, as well as foraging areas. The Virginia big-eared bat population has also been affected by white-nose syndrome.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
A family in Beacon Hill has created a neighborhood Halloween light display to help raise money in the fight against ALS, also known as Lou Gehrigs disease.

Posted by Comet Lodge Haunt on Monday, October 23, 2023

The display is located at 5923 21st Avenue South. The trail runs around the entire house and even features a corn maze.

The event is open to visitors from Oct. 28 to 29 from 6 to 9 p.m., and on Halloween between 5:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Admission is free but the family is accepting charitable donations to help fight ALS.

Of course, candy will be provided.

If you would like to learn more visit the Comet Lodge Haunt Facebook page.
















A beloved Black police officer within a California public school district is suing his former employer for racial discrimination and retaliationwhich ultimately led to his termination.

In a lawsuit filed Oct. 20 against the Val Verde Unified School District and its accompanying police department, Zuriah McKnight said he instantly noticed differences with how he and other Black police officers at Val Verde were treated in comparison to their white colleagues after he was hired in Dec. 2019.

Mr. McKnight continuously spoke up concerning [discrimination] and suffered from retaliation by [Val Verde Unified District], the lawsuit says. Due to the hostile environment, Mr. McKnight was forced to take medical leave for his own health. While on leave, Mr. McKnight was subjected to false investigations to which he was not informed of, in violation of the Peace Officer Bill of Rights, and threatened by his supervisors and Chief of Police.

McKnight, 35, said he was once written up for rolling lights and sirens without approval. Meanwhile, he claims a white employee of the department did something similar and received no form of punishment. During periods of bereavement, Black officers had to verify the death of family members, unlike their white colleagues, he alleges. McKnight also said he was the only new officer to be written up for not being properly trained on how to assign overtime.

McKnights employment remained in jeopardy and was constantly used as a threatening tactic, the lawsuit states.

After he was written up for the lights and sirens incident, the lawsuit says Chief of Police Mark Clark attempted to scare McKnight, telling him that he could not afford to make a mistake because of [his racial] background.

In May 2022, Clark allegedly told McKnight that he no longer cared about McKnights career goals and wouldnt recommend him for further professional training sessions.

McKnight alleged Clark and Sergeant Christopher Stowell made accusatory generalizations about Black people, blaming Black Lives Matter protesters for social unrest in 2021 and questioning if McKnight was going to eat fried chicken instead of bagels that were provided at work in June 2022.

Separately, McKnight claimed his white higher-ups attempted to utilize his Blackness for their gain. Allegedly, Stowell asked McKnight to speak on behalf of the department to the [school] Board during national Defund the Police campaigns in 2021.

Congratulations to Zuriah McKnight, our newest officer who was board approved tonight. Welcome to the family. pic.twitter.com/TMBCEgMTTZ  VVUSD-Police Department (@VVUSDPD) August 5, 2020

Sergeant Stowell explained [McKnight] should speak on the issue because the former Board President was also Black. Sergeant Stowell said that he would be more likely to listen to another Black man, the lawsuit states. [McKnight] feeling [intimidated] and fearful of termination, agreed to speak to the Board.

McKnight also said he noticed a stark difference in how male and female officers were treated, with female officers being denied ballistic vests. The chief and sergeant also vocalized misogynistic views, according to the lawsuit, when they refused to sign a get-well card to a female officer who was severely injured.

If she was at home like she should have been, she wouldnt have been shot, the chief and sergeant said, according to the lawsuit.

McKnight attempted to resign near the end of 2022 after he felt the discrimination, harassment, and retaliation [were] only worsening, the lawsuit states. However, Clark advised him not to create a racial narrative.

I will create one that is worse for you and will not be good for you or your future in law enforcement, Clark allegedly told McKnight.

Multiple investigations were launched against McKnight after his initial desire to resign, according to the lawsuit, and he was also told to provide the login information to his social media accounts while on medical leave in February.

Defendants terminated [McKnights] employment for reasons that violate public policy in that Defendants unlawfully terminated [McKnight] for his race and in retaliation, the lawsuit alleges. [McKnight] has suffered and continues to suffer humiliation, lack of self-confidence, embarrassment, emotional distress and mental anguish.

In turn, McKnight wants financial compensation for damages and a trial by jury.

As of Thursday, McKnights profile is still listed on the district website.

McKnight has made his dedication to the academic community well-known.

I did [this job] for the kids, he told ABC 7 Los Angeles after filing the lawsuit. I volunteered for nonprofit organizations that deal with youth, and I gave it my all every day I went in there, and to see something taken away from you that you've worked so hard for; it messes with your mental psyche, and your emotional wellbeing.

At the start of the 2022-23 school year, McKnight had gone viral in a video where he is seen brightening students spirits during a dance party at Orange Vista High School, according to ABC 7 Los Angeles.

In a post seen on the schools Instagram page, McKnight breaks it down in front of bright strobe lights in a packed gym.

[McKnight] already has a great relationship with everybody on campus, students and staff alike, Orange Vista High School Activities Director Dina Greene said at the time, ABC 7 reported.

One student on the schools Instagram page called him a legend.

Despite what appeared to be overwhelming praise for the dance number, McKnights attorney, Mika Hilaire, said he received a wave of backlash.

There were also comments questioning his abilities as well when he got some attention for being on the news because he was so well-liked and was dancing with students, she said, according to ABC 7.

Neither Val Verde Unified School District nor its accompanying police department immediately responded 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.
WINTER PARK, Fla. - Winter Park is getting an all-new Tex-Mex restaurant  and you won't have to wait too long to try their delicious tacos, fajitas or margaritas.

Superica, a Georgia-based restaurant with an Austin-style menu, is set to open at 415 S. Orlando Ave. #211 on November 13, a spokesperson for the restaurant told FOX 35 News. The 5,000-square-foot eatery will be located in the newly constructed Palm Hills development.

The restaurant is also hosting a preview party on Saturday, Nov. 4.

This marks the first Superica location in Florida. Superica currently has 11 locations open, six of which are in Georgia, plus restaurants in Nashville, Houston and North Carolina.

Superica (pronounced "super-eeka") was created by Atlanta-based chef and owner Ford Fry.

"Driven by the same come as you are mentality as its family of predecessors across the southeast, the Winter Park addition will marry the eaterys laid-back ambiance with Floridas state of tropical utopia," the restaurant said in a news release. "In tune with the neighborhoods historic focus on culture + the arts, Superica will offer a casual yet whimsical space inspired by Frys northern Mexican-meets-Texas ranch style of cooking, complete with an additional 900 square-feet of patio seating."

HUNGRY?

On the menu, guests can expect a remixed version of classic Tex-Mex dishes, like wood-fired steaks, enchilada and shrimp tacos. There's also a cocktail and craft beer selection highlighting Texas-made spirits and made-from-scratch margaritas.

This Superica location will be open every day, plus options for brunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Click here to see the menu.
(CNN)  Herbert Bertie Bowman, the longest-serving African-American congressional staffer in history who worked on Capitol Hill for more than 60 years, died Wednesday, according to a spokesperson for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He was 92.

According to his autobiography Step by Step, at 13, Bowman imagined Washington, DC could offer him a different path than his South Carolina family farm. He fantasized about a life up the road, where he could be lost in a bustling city. After a chance meeting with the late Democratic Sen. Burnet Maybank of South Carolina, his fantasy became an obsession, he wrote.

Bowman forged friendships with presidents, worked his way from janitorial staff to the Senate floor and made history with the longevity of his unprecedented career, according to his autobiography. From stair-sweeping, Bowman climbed the staff ranks, eventually finding a home in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee  one of the most powerful committees within Congress  in the 1960s as a clerk.

Bowman first announced his retirement from the committee in 1990, though he told C-Span he continued to work on and off the payroll. But Bowman didnt retire for long. When former Sen. Jesse Helms, a North Carolina Republican, assumed the chair of the committee, he told Bowman he wanted him to return as his hearing coordinator, Bowman told C-Span in 2008.

Bertie Bowman in 2011. - Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call/Getty Images

Asked by C-Span how he could consider lawmakers who opposed civil rights legislation as friends, Bowman said, Anytime you have someone thats going to do things for you or ready to help you when youre in need and stick by, thats one reason why I call them my friend.

Bowman wrote in his memoir that he never discussed with Senator Helms the terrible things he said about Blacks.

Bowmans unwavering dedication and kindness earned him praise in 2019 from former President Bill Clinton , who reminisced to CBS about Bowman, his former supervisor and then the only African American Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff member, according to Clintons foreword in Bowmans autobiography.

Bowman oversaw a college-aged Clinton when he worked as a messenger for then- Arkansas Democratic Sen. William Fulbright, Bowman told C-Span. Bowman was exactly the kind of person youd want to take you under his wing, if youre a 20-year-old student just working your first job in Washington, Clinton said in a 2019 interview with CBS.

From his humble beginnings as a poor farm boy in the segregated South to his years as a junior member of the Senate janitorial staff to his tenure as hearing coordinator for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he epitomizes the kind of citizen that makes this country great, Clinton wrote in the foreword of Bowmans biography.

This is the American dream, Bowman told C-Span in 2008, sitting in an empty Senate Foreign Relations meeting room, living the American dream, that Im right here  Senator Helms always had us say, You know, bud, neither of us made us through college, but here we are.

Sen. John Kerry talks with committee staffer Bertie Bowman as US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has a laugh before Kerry's confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to become the next Secretary of State in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill January 24, 2013 in Washington, DC. - Mark Wilson/Getty Images

President Joe Biden, a former senator on and chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, wrote that Bowmans autobiography Step by Step, was a great American story by a frontline witness to history.

In 2019, the United States Senate Federal Credit Union named their headquarters after Bowman, a former chairman of the USSFCU and the boards longest-serving member. That same year, an 88-year-old Bowman told CBS he had no plans of retiring.

USSFCU CEO and President Timothy Anderson told CNN, Bowman was like a second father to him.

I am the CEO of this organization today, in large part because of Bertie as a mentor, Anderson said. He attributed Berties success to a motto he often shared: Work hard, be true to yourself, take responsibility, have a positive outlook and then expect the best from people.

Anderson said that just before his death, Bowman asked for his funeral procession to pass the headquarters named after him. He walked the halls with presidents and senators, but Bertie treated everyone the same  and he employed us to do the same, Anderson said, adding Bowman didnt care about title.

In 2020, Bowman was inducted into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame by the African-American Credit Union Coalition.

Foreign Relations Chairman Ben Cardin, a Maryland Democrat, described Bowman on Thursday as the very embodiment of the American Dream and will continue to inspire new generations of public servants to pick up where he left off.

He imprinted himself on the work and lives of every member that had the privilege to serve on our Committee across both sides of the aisle, and did so with honor, decency, and kindness, Cardin said in a statement.

Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Bertie wasnt just a fixture of so many Foreign Relations hearings I attended  he was a warm, funny, and friendly presence in the Senate. Ill miss him.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
In The Know by Yahoo

Is the 60-second rule worth adopting? Sarah Akram, the founder of Sarah Akram Skincare, shares her thoughts. The post Expert weighs in on whether or not you should wash your face for at least 60 seconds appeared first on In The Know.
Schuyler Ellers knows theres art in the old Afghan that sits in his workspace. How it will take shape is yet to be revealed.

A lot of it is like spending some time with it figuring out which way does it go? Ellers said. How does it turn into clothing? And then once I do it, once I see it and I know what it is, it really goes very fast.

Welcome to the world of an up-and-coming designer who lives a quirky existence on the outskirts of Nevada City.

Theres the converted barn that Ellers, 45, lives in  a little drafty, but with plenty of space for him to play records and DJ for his friends. An exterior bathroom Ellers built has a large tub that he got from a church in Sacramento that had intended to use it for baptisms but never did.

Then theres the craft room with Ellers lifeblood: 100 or so crocheted blankets, which he repurposes into items like pararols and shorts as part of his high-end Lord von Schmitt fashion line. Ellers will work in this room early in the morning, late at night, whenever the mood strikes.

Fashion designer Schuyler Ellers models a hat in his studio earlier this month near Nevada City. His clothing line, Lord von Schmitt, is made from crochet blankets and throws.

Ellers, like many early-stage entrepreneurs, tried and failed to get funded on the popular show Shark Tank, in an episode that first aired in 2020, with judges expressing concern about his price point. You hand-make each and every one of these things, Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said during the segment. Its a piece of art. Sell it that way.

Still, this televised setback has not deterred Ellers from living life on his own terms.

Origins of Lord von Schmitt

Lord von Schmitt, fashionista, was born in the 1990s on Ellers dorm signup sheet at Columbia University.

I just put my name on it, Ellers said. Then I think everyone got drunk. And then it ended up being this long sentence where they added all these things.

Amidst the additions to his name on the sign-up sheet, Lord von Schmitt was born.

It would be many more years, though, before the name became his brand. For a time after college, Ellers, whose family goes back several generations in Nevada City, traveled the world and lived in different places, first learning to work with yarn during a stint in Barcelona.

Ellers returned to Nevada City around 2008, got into repurposing Afghan blankets and opened an Etsy shop not long thereafter. He lives on approximately 10 acres of land owned by his parents, who live nearby.

Fashion designer Schuyler Ellers models fringed pants and smoking jacket outside of his studio near Nevada City earlier this month. His clothing brand, Lord von Schmitt, is made from crochet blankets and throws.

Sarah Griffin-Boubacar, a close friend who has done some paid work calling prospective investors for Ellers in recent years, first met him in the early 2010s when he came as a plus-one to her wedding.

He was dressed all in velvet and he was wearing Elvis glasses and he was going by the name Velvis, Griffin-Boubacar said. And I loved him instantly.

Another friend, Alex Henderson met Ellers around the same time, through gatherings for the local artistic community in Nevada City. I gravitated towards him because hes very expressive and fun, Henderson said. I like that in a person.

Business increased for Ellers in 2015, due to a spike in interest online, at the time of a yearly trip he was taking to India. His mother called DeeDee Brownell, a local seamstress shed been a customer of for 15 years, asking if Brownell might help out with sewing some shorts for Ellers online store while he was gone.

As hes flying to India, the site goes viral, Brownell said. Theres like 40 orders and then theres 90.

The number of orders kept growing, to more than 150, maybe as many as 300, with Brownell unclear on the exact total. Whatever the precise number wound up being, it was enough that Ellers cut his trip short and it took him and Brownell two months to fill the orders.

Shark Tank and beyond

In 2019, Ellers went to film his episode of Shark Tank, the show where a group of prospective investors like Cuban or FUBU founder Daymond John hear pitches from people with a small business theyd like to scale.

Ellers walked away knowing that all of the sharks had declined his offer of a 10% stake in his business in exchange for $100,000 of funding. While some of the sharks such as Kevin OLeary expressed interest during Ellers pitch, they had concerns about him not selling his wares at high enough prices.

When the episode aired in May 2020, a funny thing happened: Ellers began to notice an uptick in phone calls, messages and sales as the episode aired in successive time zones.

Whats great about it is that its not over, Ellers said. Im still getting revenue out of reruns.

In the meantime, Ellers has also continued to pursue other revenue streams, such as selling his wares locally.

Cedar Rushin met Ellers when he bought a parasol from him at a clothing pop-up around 2021, not long after Rushin and his husband moved to town. Rushin quickly bonded with Ellers, who is openly gay.

His spirit is very uplifting, Rushin said.

Fashion designer Schuyler Ellers tosses a hoodie made from found crochet blankets at his studio near Nevada City earlier this month. His clothing line, Lord von Schmitt, is made from crochet blankets and throws.

Beyond this, Ellers has had a parasol in a Sky Vodka campaign. He said hes been pursuing a licensing deal with representatives of a famed musical artist Ellers is hesitant to name publicly.

Hes also raised more than $32,000 from a crowdfunding campaign connected to OLeary. The campaign, which is scheduled to run until Dec. 14, is being done for Lord von Designs, a new corporation that has been assigned all Lord von Schmitt intellectual property and has not yet produced any apparel, according to the campaign.

My goals are to go from what is a repurposed fashion movement to a fashion movement that can reach a lot more people, Ellers said.

Ellers warns people when they trek out to his home that they might scrape the underside of their cars on the steep dirt road in. He welcomes friends like Amanda Chavez, owner of Nevada City shop Rainbow Rocket Marketplace to the home, where Chavez has even been able to do a little sewing.

He just really makes it an inviting environment, said Chavez, who once sang Bohemian Rhapsody for charity with Ellers, a gifted pianist, accompanying her musically.

Asked if its worth it to him to live the way he does, Ellers answers affirmatively and with no hesitation whatsoever.

I dont know that I would have gotten anywhere with a job, Ellers said. What Im doing now, I can keep dreaming of that next thing, I can keep going after it. I think my life would be boring if I just had a job.

Fashion designer Schuyler Ellers models a crop top, a swimsuit and chaps leg coverings outside of his studio near Nevada City earlier this month. His clothing line, Lord von Schmitt, based on crochet blankets and throws.
The Biden administration is pushing for more aid to get into Gaza and signaling Israel to pause its military offensive against Hamas militants, amid concerns that days of heavy bombardment and a siege of the Palestinian enclave are creating a growing humanitarian disaster and raising the risk of a wider conflict.

At a news conference Wednesday with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, President Joe Biden expressed strong solidarity with Israel but said the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza needed to increase, that Israel needed to do everything in its power to protect innocent civilians and condemned reports of extremist Israeli settlers in the West Bank targeting Palestinians.

The presidents comments came a day after Secretary of State Anthony Blinken for the first time said publicly that humanitarian pauses must be considered so that food, water, medicine and other essential humanitarian assistance can flow into Gaza.

Just last week, the administration vetoed a resolution at the U.N. Security Council calling for humanitarian pauses, saying that more time was needed for diplomacy to play out to secure aid deliveries.

A U.S. official said the shift in the administrations language was deliberate.

The White House is now backing the idea of a pause of indeterminate duration to allow for more aid to get to Gaza and to help those trying to gain safe passage out of the enclave, the official said.

The administration was trying to walk a fine line, the official said, balancing the need to support Israel and its right to defend itself after suffering a brutal surprise attack, while also acknowledging the need to create a window for the delivery of humanitarian aid.

The Israelis are hearing the administrations call for a humanitarian pause and it is actively being discussed, the official said. The Israelis appeared open to a pause for their own negotiations to free hostages taken by Hamas, though no final decision had been reached, the official said.

If Israel agreed to a pause, it is unclear exactly how long it would last, administration officials said.

The Israeli Embassy could not immediately be reached for comment.

The president and his team have repeatedly defended Israels right to take military action against Hamas after the militants Oct. 7 attack on Israel that left 1,400 dead and more than 200 taken captive. But more than two weeks into Israels relentless air campaign in the densely populated Gaza Strip, with outrage mounting among Arab governments, the administrations public statements on the humanitarian situation have taken on an increasingly urgent tone.

Speaking at the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday, Blinken said that the U.S. believed every civilian life was equally valuable.

There is no hierarchy when it comes to protecting civilian lives. A civilian is a civilian is a civilian, no matter his or her nationality, ethnicity, age, gender, faith, Blinken said.

Injured Palestinians are taken away from destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes and artillery fires continue in Gaza on Oct. 25, 2023. (Ali Jadallah / Anadolu via Getty Images)

But U.S. partners in the Middle East, including those closely aligned with the U.S. who have quietly cooperated with Israel, have condemned Israel over its tactics in Gaza and rejected how Washington has portrayed the crisis.

In a speech in Cairo over the weekend, Jordans King Abdullah II accused Israel of committing war crimes in Gaza. The relentless bombing campaign underway in Gaza as we speak is cruel and unconscionable  on every level, the king said, calling it collective punishment of a besieged and helpless people.

Jordan, other Arab governments and Russia have supported calls for an immediate cease-fire, an idea that Israel and the U.S. have rejected, saying it would play into Hamas hands after it launched an assault on civilians inside southern Israel.

At a U.N. Security Council meeting on Wednesday, governments failed to reach a consensus on the crisis in Gaza. A U.S.-drafted resolution calling for humanitarian pauses was opposed by Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates. A resolution backed by Russia, China and the U.A.E., calling for a cease-fire, was vetoed by the U.S. and the United Kingdom.

At his news conference at the White House, Biden also used tough words to describe incidents in the West Bank in which Israeli settlers staged retaliatory attacks on Palestinians, saying the assaults had to stop now.

I continue to be alarmed about extremist settlers attacking Palestinians in the West Bank, Biden said, saying it amounted to pouring gasoline on fire.

It has to stop, said Biden. They have to be held accountable.

The White House is increasingly concerned that the actions of some Israeli settlers could open a new front in the war along the West Bank, according to two administration officials.

The presidents strong language was intentional and designed to send a crystal clear message to anyone seeking to expand the conflict to reconsider, given the possibility that tensions could spread and enflame violence further, one of the officials said.

The potential for an expanding war has been a concern for the White House since the Hamas attack on Oct. 7, but until Wednesday administration officials have focused on Americas adversaries  warning Iran, for instance, not to mobilize its proxies in the region. Now, the president is warning of Israelis potentially sparking a wider conflict along the West Bank.

While the Biden administration has expressed concern over extremist settler attacks against Palestinian civilians in the past, the presidents pointed language on Wednesday marks the first time hes specifically cautioned about the potential for such violence to expand the Israel-Hamas war that began two-and-a-half weeks ago.

Theyre trying to be more empathetic and sympathetic to the whole question of innocent Palestinians being attacked, killed and injured, said Aaron David Miller, a former Middle East negotiator for the State Department. Miller said Bidens remarks were by any standard very strong."

The president, however, also cast doubt on Wednesday on the number of Palestinian deaths that Hamas has reported.

Meanwhile, the United Nations, which oversees aid efforts in Gaza, warned it would soon run out of fuel in Gaza and would have to scale back relief efforts in the territory unless a blockade on fuel, water and power was lifted.

Doctors at hospitals in Gaza said they were struggling to treat large numbers of wounded as Israeli air strikes continued to pummel the enclave.

The head of the U.S. Agency for International Development, Samantha Power, spoke with U.N. aid officials on Wednesday to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Power emphasized strong U.S. support for sustained and unhindered humanitarian access, and for the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, the State Department said.

Blinken traveled around the Middle East last week to try to negotiate the opening of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza and an agreement to allow humanitarian aid in to the Palestinians in Gaza and foreign nationals out. Although some humanitarian aid trucks have been able to cross the border into Gaza, aid agencies say many more are needed given the crisis conditions.

These deliveries are a drop in the bucket compared to the vast scale of needs, Lynn Hastings, U.N. deputy special coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, told the Security Council on Tuesday.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
[Source]

President Joe Biden affirmed the U.S. governments commitment to defend the Philippines in the event of any attack by China following recent maritime collisions in the disputed South China Sea.

Biden's commitment: In remarks made during a White House press conference along with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday, Biden invoked the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, which binds the two nations to jointly defend themselves against external armed attacks. The pledge came in the wake of two collisions between Filipino and Chinese vessels in the contested region on Sunday morning.

I want to be very clear: The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad, Biden said. Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines.

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China's response: China swiftly responded to Biden's announcement, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning asserting that the U.S. had no right to interfere in issues between China and the Philippines.

"The US defense commitment to the Philippines should not undermine Chinas sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in South China Sea, nor should it support the illegal claims of the Philippines," Mao told the AFP.

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About the collision: The Philippines National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea (NTF-WPS) reported on Monday that "dangerous blocking maneuvers" by Chinese vessels resulted in a collision with the Armed Forces of the Philippines-contracted resupply boat and a Philippine Coast Guard ship, according to Inquirer.

During the incident, the Philippine ships were reportedly conducting a resupply mission to BRP Sierra Madre, a World War II-era landing ship that had been grounded and turned into a forward outport at Second Thomas Shoal, locally called Ayungin Shoal.

The NTF-WPS condemned the Chinese ships' actions, asserting that they were in violation of Philippine sovereignty and international maritime laws. In response, the China Coast Guard claimed that the Philippine vessels had trespassed into the region, justifying their actions as a response to these alleged violations.

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Strategic U.S. ally: The Philippines borders critical flashpoints in the Pacific, including the South China Sea and Taiwan. Since the inauguration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in June 2022, the Philippines has taken a more assertive stance against China's actions in the contested regions.

The U.S. and the Philippines recently agreed on new guidelines for their 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, specifically mentioning that mutual defense commitments would be invoked in the event of an armed attack on either country "anywhere in the South China Sea."

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President Joe Biden on Wednesday cast doubt on the casualty figures reported from Gaza as Israel continues its U.S.-backed military operation there, telling reporters: I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. But within Bidens own administration, officials have consistently cited the death toll and other data provided by authorities inside Gaza, according to a HuffPost review of internal State Department documents.

HuffPost reviewed nearly 20 State Department situation reports, with the earliest dating from Oct. 8, the day after the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched a devastating attack inside Israel that killed 1,400 people and sparked the current fighting. Most were prepared by the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem and then circulated to a broad group of department officials working on issues related to Israel-Palestine. Situation reports such as these represent U.S. assessments from the ground that are intended to inform policy discussions and decision-making in Washington.

In at least 12 instances, U.S. embassy officials attributed the number of Palestinian casualties to the Hamas-linked Health Ministry in Gaza  including in the report provided to State Department colleagues on Oct. 25, hours before Bidens remarks.

In two reports written by States Operations Center and circulated within the department on Oct. 24 and 25, administration officials reported casualties in Gaza by citing two outside sources who quoted the Gaza ministry in their reports: Al Jazeera and the nonprofit Save the Children. And in one instance in which a situation report questioned the accuracy of figures from the Gaza ministry, on Oct. 21, the American official drafting the note wrote of the number of Gazans killed or injured the previous day: The numbers are likely much higher, according to the UN and NGOs reporting on the situation.

Palestinians look for survivors after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 26.

Palestinians look for survivors after an Israeli airstrike in Rafah in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 26.

That cable and one other are the only examples in which the reports include caveats about the ministrys data, saying authorities inside Gaza have effectively crumbled, reducing the credibility of [de facto authority] Ministry of Health-provided data. Cables issued subsequently do not include that caveat and continue citing the ministry figures the same way they cite figures from Israels Ministry of Health.

The credibility of the ministrys data is significant because there are few other sources of information about the situation in the blockaded region, and because some defenders of Israels actions in Gaza claim the ministry overstates the humanitarian toll of Israeli attacks for political reasons.

Most organizations and analysts tracking Gaza do treat the ministry as a reliable source, however, including the United Nations. The State Department has also publicly cited the ministrys figures, for example in a report published earlier this year on the human rights situation in Israel-Palestine.

Its unclear whether Biden received specific information that motivated his Wednesday comments. Asked about the ministrys assessment that Israeli attacks on Gaza since Oct. 7 had killed more than 6,000 Palestinians, including 2,700 children, the president said: Im sure innocents have been killed and thats the price of waging a war. I think we should be incredibly careful  not we, the Israelis should be incredibly careful to be sure that theyre focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war against Israel and its against their interests when that doesnt happen.

But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using, Biden said.

On Thursday, a State Department spokesperson told HuffPost: No one is questioning the scope of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza or the significant number of civilian lives that have been lost.

The Hamas-run Ministry of Health has a track record of reporting inaccurate numbers and inflating death tolls, the spokesperson continued. Unfortunately, given the limited ability of outside parties to verify figures provided by Hamas, it remains difficult to determine the total number of civilian casualties in Gaza, and no other alternatives exist at this time to the metrics provided by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health. The Department of State will continue to include data from a variety of sources for its internal reporting  this is not indicative of how accurate we assess those data points to be.

The Gaza Health Ministry responded to Bidens statement on Thursday by publishing a list of names of people killed since Oct. 7.

An injured girl holds a handkerchief to her head at the Al-Nasr hospital, following Israeli bombardment in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26 amid the ongoing battles between Israel and Hamas.

An injured girl holds a handkerchief to her head at the Al-Nasr hospital, following Israeli bombardment in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26 amid the ongoing battles between Israel and Hamas.

Most of the State Department reports seen by HuffPost cite the ministry as the source of information for casualties in Gaza. The U.S. officials who wrote them attribute casualties in the other occupied Palestinian territory, the West Bank, to the Ministry of Health in the Palestinian Authority, which controls some parts of the region and is a separate entity from Gazas Ministry of Health.

Experts who count on the Gaza ministry say they treat it as trustworthy because of its track record over many years, including past periods of conflict between Israel and Hamas, and because it has unique information from sources like local morgues and medical facilities. The U.N.s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has its own tracking system for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but its assessments are released more slowly because it almost always relies on two sources for statistics on deaths and injuries.

The State Department cables vary in how they describe the Gaza ministrys relationship with Hamas  a point of contention that has become especially important amid an ongoing controversy over a hospital bombing in Gaza last week. Soon after the explosion, multiple major news outlets cited the ministry saying it was caused by an Israeli airstrike and had caused nearly 500 deaths. Israel in turn blamed the blast on a misfired rocket by the militant group Palestinian Islamic Jihad. U.S. intelligence agencies later reported the toll was between 100 and 300 and the BBC and New York Times published clarifying statements about their coverage; Israels government had accused the BBC of issuing a modern blood libel.

Multiple State Department reports prior to the Al-Ahli hospital disaster on Oct. 17 describe the ministry as the de facto Ministry of Health in Gaza or use the term de facto authority. Reports sent afterward include a reference to Hamas, with some using the term Hamas-run.

One cable, sent on Oct. 12, cites the de facto Deputy Health Minister in Gaza, Yousef Abu Al-Reesh.

On Oct. 23, a cable did not provide a new casualty number for Gazans, noting the ministry had not published new figures since the previous day.

Two cables describe the authorities in Gaza as crumbling amid the impact of Israels campaign, which has destroyed large swaths of the areas civilian infrastructure.

The chief U.N. aid agency operating in the strip said Thursday that the lack of fuel in the area  which can only receive supplies through Israel and Egypt  is making it harder to help people amid the fighting. Current stocks are almost completely exhausted, forcing life-saving services to come to a halt, the U.N. Relief and Works Agency wrote in its latest update. This includes the supply of piped water as well as fuel for the health sector, bakeries, and generators.

Israel is expected to launch a ground invasion of Gaza in the coming days and has recently intensified its aerial campaign against targets there, including in southern Gaza where Israeli authorities had previously told civilians to flee to for shelter.

The death toll in the strip now exceeds 7,000, the Gaza Health Ministry reported on Thursday.
In the past three weeks, more than 1,400 people in Israel and 7,000 Palestinians have been killed amid fighting between Israel and Hamas. That is, if you believe the casualty figures coming out of the region. This week, U.S. President Joe Biden suggested that the Palestinian death toll in Gaza, which has been under heavy bombardment by Israel following Hamas Oct. 7 massacre, is not to be trusted.

Im sure innocents have been killed, and its a price of waging a war, Biden said at a press conference on Wednesday. But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using. The President didnt offer further evidence for his skepticism of the Palestinian health ministry's data, which the U.S. State Department has cited both internally and publicly, in the latter case as recently as March. (When asked to provide evidence to support Biden's statement, the White House referred TIME to comments made by U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby, who on Thursday reiterated the Presidents assertion that the death toll cannot be taken at face value because the Gaza Ministry of Health is just a front for Hamas.)

Gazas health ministry on Thursday answered Biden with a list of the dead. The 212-page document provided the name, age, sex, and official identification number of 6,747 people that Palestinian officials say have been killed in Gaza since Israel began its airstrikes there on Oct. 7. (The document notes that this list does not include the 281 dead who have yet to be identified.) TIME has not been able to independently verify the list.

Read More: Our Death Is Pending. Stories of Loss and Grief From Gaza

The publication of the document appeared to be a direct challenge to Bidens comments and the skepticism of Gazas health ministry, which like all other government ministries in the besieged enclave, fall under Hamas leadership. (The militant group seized control of Gaza from its rivals in the Fatah-led Palestinian Authority, which governs the West Bank, in 2007.) While some have argued that Gazas health ministry does not distinguish between combatant and civilian deaths in its tallies, others are now suggesting that it may even be embellishing the numbers.

Hamas has a clear propaganda incentive to inflate civilian casualties as much as possible, Luke Baker, a former Reuters bureau chief who led the organizations coverage of Israel and the Palestinian territories from 2014 to 2017, said in a recent X thread. (Baker declined to comment to TIME.) Like Biden, Baker does not dispute that civilian deaths have occurred. Rather, he says that the extent of the death toll is unverifiable and that those tasked with tracking casualties in Gaza may not be able to do so freely. Any health official stepping out of line and not giving the death tolls that Hamas wants reported to journalists risks serious consequences, Baker said.

Although Gaza has been under Hamas rule since 2007, this is the first time that the reliability of the enclaves health ministry has been so prominently called into question. News outlets and international organizations and agencies have long relied on Israeli and Palestinian government sources for casualty figures. While they do so partly because they are unable to independently verify these figures themselves, its also because these statistics have proven accurate in the past. They have access methodologically to sources of information that nobody else hasaccess to data from morgues, from hospitalsand thats ultimately going to be the most reliable way to count casualties, Omar Shakir, the Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch, says of Palestinian health officials in Gaza. He notes that when Human Rights Watch has conducted its own investigations into individual strikes, there have been no large discrepancies between those numbers and the numbers produced by the Gaza health ministry.

While keeping track of the numbers of dead and wounded may seem like a particularly arduous task amid the latest bombardment, which has seen thousands of buildings destroyed and more than 1 million of Gaza's 2.2 million people displaced, there is a process by which Palestinians track their casualties. After every war, a list is issued with names, gender, age, and ID numberand that happens for a reason, because you need to issue official death certificates, says Nour Odeh, a Ramallah-based political analyst and former journalist, noting that this process enables families to deal with issues such as inheritance and custody of children whose parents have died. This is not done by political figures; this compilation is done by health professionals There is a very concerted effort to do that in Palestine and, unfortunately, theres a lot of practice.

Of the five Gaza wars that have taken place since 2008, this one is by far the deadliest. But Shakir says that the fatalities are not surprising, given the intensity and scale of the bombardment. The numbers that were seeing of casualties are generally in line with what we would expect, given the number of airstrikes in one of the most densely-populated areas on Earth.

Read More: For Gazans, There Are No Safe Havens

Skepticism over the death toll spiked in the aftermath of last weeks explosion at Gaza Citys Al Ahli hospital, in which hundreds are believed to have been killed. In the immediate aftermath, the Gaza health ministry said that 500 people had been killed in the blasta sum that was later revised down to 471. (U.S. intelligence offered a more conservative estimate of between 100 and 300 deaths.) The only thing more contentious than the death toll is who was ultimately responsible for the blast. While Gazas health ministry spokesman laid the blame on an Israeli airstrike, Israel said that it was the fault of an errant rocket fired by Palestinian militants from Gazaan assessment that has been supported by the White House. A recent visual investigation into the blast carried out by the New York Times remains inconclusive.

But as Odeh sees it, casting doubt on the Palestinian death toll is no different to other historical denials of ethnic cleansing. The Serbs denied that all those people were being killed in Bosnia and Herzegovina; in Rwanda, the same thing happened, she says. The Russians do it in Ukraine, and they did it along with the Assad regime in Syria This is the playbook of people who commit atrocities.

The prospect of death is a fear that now hangs over many Palestinians in Gazaso much so that some families have taken to wearing bracelets with their names on them so that their bodies can be identified amid the rubble should they fall victim to airstrikes. Muhammad Shehada, a native Gazan and the chief of communications at Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, tells TIME that of all the Israeli military operations he and his family have lived through, nothing matches the magnitude, severity, and scale of this current war. His fear, shared by his organization (which says its working to cross reference the death toll figures with local hospitals, confirmed casualties, and eye-witness accounts) and others, is that the more doubt that is cast on the Palestinian death toll, the more likely the airstrikes will continue unabated.

Right now you have 7,000 people killed, which is way more than the number of Palestinians killed in any previous war, atrocity, or escalation for the last four decades, Shehada says. To question the validity of the numbers coming out from Gaza is to provide cover for everything that Israel will do next.

Write to Yasmeen Serhan at yasmeen.serhan@time.com.
U.S. President Joe Biden congratulated newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson and urged him to act quickly to secure additional funding for national security needs, including aid for Ukraine, according to a statement released by the White House on Oct. 25.

"We need to move swiftly to address our national security needs," said Biden, in an apparent reference to a White House package that would entail $60 billion in funds for Ukraine and $10 billion for Israel.

Johnson, a Republican Congressman from Louisiana, was elected as the new House Speaker mid-day Wednesday, filling the seat left empty for weeks after the ousting of Kevin McCarthy.

Following his election, when asked whether he supports additional aid for Ukraine, Johnson replied: "We all do. ...We are going to have conditions on that so were working through," according to NBC News.

"We want accountability and we want objectives that are clear from the White House. But were going to have those discussions. It will be very productive," Johnson continued.

The dynamics surrounding the call for increased funding for Ukraine continue to divide U.S. political leaders.

One of ex-President Donald Trump's most loyal supporters in Congress, Johnson has been a critic of the delivery of aid to Ukraine. In May 2022, Johnson voted against a $40 billion aid package to Ukraine, claiming that his focus lies with solving domestic affordability challenges.

President Biden, a staunch supporter of Ukraine, has continuously reaffirmed U.S. support for Kyiv and has called on allies to stand with Ukraine against ongoing Russian aggression.

Read also: Media: Ukrainian pilots start F-16 training in US

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The News

A Biden administration effort to screen private investments into a narrow set of technology sectors in China could eventually be expanded to other sectors with national security implications.

According to one person at a law firm in touch with the administration about the executive order, the Treasury Department sees the notification requirement in the directive President Joe Biden signed in August as something that could potentially be expanded and grow. That could make businesses wary of planning investments around the new enforcement regime as they look for certainty on the rules of the road.

Currently, the order directs the administration to screen and potentially block investments in three sectors in China that have military applications: Semiconductors, quantum information technologies, and artificial intelligence. The administration had been contemplating including biotechnology in the original order, but dropped it for a narrower set of sectors.

The language in the executive order itself calls for a review one year after the regulations take effect to recommend potential changes to the order, including the addition or removal of identified sectors or countries of concern.

Basically, theyre treating this as a one-year pilot to be evaluated, said a trade association source. The administration could easily use the existing framework that theyre building to cover additional sectors or types of technologies if they decided to, the person said.

The Treasury Department, which declined to comment for this story, is sifting through input from outside stakeholders as it finalizes the rules to implement the executive order, which are expected sometime next year. That means any changes are very far off, and could be thwarted if Biden loses reelection.

A senior administration official told reporters in August when Biden unveiled the executive order that there was no expectation that were going to add additional areas during the rulemaking and that the goal of the comment period is to provide as much clarity to those potentially affected as possible.

Emily Kilcrease, an expert on the U.S.-China economic relationship at the Center for a New American Security, said any effort by the administration to change the scope of the order would require another rulemaking process. She said the Biden administration is smart for planning regular review of the policy because of its novelty.

Itll be important not to just put these things on paper and let them live there for years, she told Semafor.

Know More

The executive order has been a point of tension between U.S. and Chinese officials, who are meeting this week as Beijings top diplomat, Wang Yi, visits Washington beginning Thursday. The issue also may have come up during virtual talks between senior Treasury officials and their Chinese counterparts this week.

White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has characterized it as part of the administrations small yard and high fence approach to protecting U.S. national security. Venture capital and private equity firms making the investments are required to notify the government of their plans.

Legislation on Capitol Hill offers some clues as to how it could be expanded beyond semiconductors, quantum, and AI. A bill introduced by Sens. John Cornyn, R-Texas and Bob Casey, D-Pa. that would make it law for companies to notify the U.S. government of planned investments in countries of concern covers a much broader array of sectors, like large-capacity batteries, hypersonics, satellite-based communications, and laser scanners.

Batteries are an obvious future target, said Kilcrease, who noted the dynamic is different than with other technology sectors where the U.S. has a clear leg up. China occupies a dominant position in the battery industry, which has become a source of concern for the U.S. as the Biden administration looks to jumpstart a transition to electric vehicles.

Morgans view

Even at this early stage, the fact that the Biden administration is talking about expanding this part of the executive order is significant. This program could eventually sweep up even more investments, promising greater disruption for the private sector.

That doesnt mean there would necessarily be restrictions placed on all private investments into a wider array of sectors, but that the administration would be screening them. That would give U.S. officials even greater visibility into the flow of U.S. dollars and know-how into Chinese tech industries.

An expansion may do more to satisfy China hawks in Congress who have criticized the Biden administration for not going far enough. U.S. lawmakers could eventually try to codify the order or pursue their own expansion, but competing proposals on Capitol Hill have been stalled amid other gridlock.

Room for Disagreement

Pushback from the private sector could dissuade officials from eventually trying to expand the scope of the order. The Biden administration spent months working on the directive released in August and it faced repeated delays as the administration heard concerns from outside voices. There are a number of questions investors have about the executive order and its current scope, such as the degree to which it affects U.S. persons working for foreign nationals. The European Union reportedly lodged concerns with the Biden administration over potential impact on European companies.

Notable

Information the government collects due to the new investment screening program will provide useful economic intelligence for U.S. spies, Bloomberg reported.
(Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden will see Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi when he visits the White House on Friday, a courtesy gesture that could lay the groundwork for a leaders meeting next month, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Chinas top diplomat will have two days of meetings in Washington with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan . Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping will possibly meet in San Francisco next month when the US hosts an economic summit for Asia-Pacific nations.

Biden for months has said he hoped to meet Xi in the fall, but Chinese officials have so far declined to confirm his attendance at the mid-November gathering.

The relationship between the worlds two largest economies steadily improved from a low point earlier this year after the US military shot down an alleged Chinese spy balloon and tensions simmered over Taiwan.

Since the summer, a number of US cabinet officials have visited Beijing for talks with their counterparts and made progress on macroeconomic issues.

Read More: Chinas Wang Yi to Visit Washington Amid Mideast Tensions

Wang and Sullivan met last month in Malta, in an effort to keep channels of communication open and reduce the risk of conflict. They discussed Chinas relationship with Russia and Beijings ongoing support for Moscow in its invasion of Ukraine, which US officials have warned should not cross the line of providing lethal aid.

Wangs visit will be the first by Chinas top foreign policy official since March 2021.

(Updates with context.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Steve Holland and Susan Heavey

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden has sent a rare message to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning Tehran against targeting U.S. personnel in the Middle East, the White House said on Thursday after a spate of attacks on American forces in the region.

"There was a direct message relayed," White House spokesman John Kirby said at a news briefing, declining to elaborate.

Iran's mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. officials want to avoid a wider conflict in the Middle East following the Oct. 7 attack by the militant Hamas group on Israel that killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

About 900 additional U.S. troops are headed to the region or have recently arrived there to bolster air defenses to protect U.S. personnel amid a surge in attacks in the region by Iran-affiliated groups, the Pentagon said.

U.S. troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the past week, it added.

On Wednesday, Biden said he had warned the ayatollah the United States would respond if U.S. forces continued to be targeted but did not say how the message was communicated.

"My warning to the ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond, and he should be prepared. It has nothing to do with Israel," he told reporters.

In a comment posted on social media before Kirby spoke, an aide to Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi disputed Biden's account.

"The US messages were neither directed to the leader of the Islamic Revolution nor were they anything but requests from the Iranian side. If Biden thinks he has warned Iran, he should ask his team to show him the text of the messages," Mohammad Jamshidi, a Raisi aide, wrote.

Separately, Iran's state news agency IRNA cited an unnamed source as saying the United States had sent Iran, as well some Iranian allies like Lebanese Hezbollah, messages that it was not seeking to expand the war and urging them to exercise restraint.

"The United States cannot both send military equipment to the Israeli regime and take charge of managing the war with one hand, while issuing political messages with the other hand, and speak about its opposition to the expansion of the war," IRNA cited the unnamed source as saying, adding Iran's allies "act independently and are not subject to Tehran's orders."

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, which rules Gaza, in retaliation for the Oct. 7 attack in which the militant group also took about 200 people hostage. Israel has struck Gaza from the air, imposed a siege and is preparing a ground invasion.

Palestinian authorities say more than 7,000 have been killed, though Biden has voiced skepticism about such numbers. Reuters has been unable to independently verify the death toll.

On Thursday, Iran's Foreign Minster Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesn't end, then the United States will "not be spared from this fire."

One way Iran projects power is by arming and funding militant groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen and Shi'ite militias in Iraq.

In the last such known U.S. retaliation, the U.S. military carried out multiple air strikes in Syria on March 23 against Iran-aligned groups it blamed for a drone attack that killed an American contractor, wounded another and hurt five U.S. troops.

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Susan Heavey in Washington; Additional reporting by Parisa Hafezi in Dubai; Writing by Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Doina Chiacu, Jonathan Oatis and Cynthia Osterman)
(Bloomberg) -- President Joe Biden warned China that the US would be forced to intervene if Beijing attacks Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, after two separate collisions in the disputed waterway over the weekend.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Just this past week, the PRC vessels acted dangerously and unlawfully as our Philippine friends conducted a routine resupply mission within their own exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, Biden said at the White House on Wednesday during a joint news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

I want to be very clear: The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad, he said. Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines.

A China Coast Guard vessel collided with a Philippines-contracted resupply boat early Sunday as it made its way to a rusting World War II-era ship grounded in Second Thomas Shoal more than two decades ago. Two hours later, a Chinese maritime militia boat ran into a Philippine coast guard ship during the same operation to deliver supplies.

Read More: Tensions Flare Over South China Sea After Vessels Collide

The remarks from the US president come as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits Washington this week for high-level meetings, including one with Biden on Friday. Meetings are also scheduled with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan as the US and China continue a series of diplomatic engagements intended to manage tensions.

Wangs trip is seen as part of an effort that could lay the groundwork for a Biden-Xi meeting next month in California.

Beijing said the US is not a party concerned in the South China Sea issue, and hence not in a position to interfere in issues between China and the Philippines.

The US defense commitment to the Philippines should not undermine Chinas sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea, nor should it use the commitment to embolden the Philippines illegal claims, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters at a regular press briefing in Beijing Thursday.

China has repeatedly urged the Philippines to remove the ship known as the BRP Sierra Madre that it said was illegally and deliberately ran aground at the shoal  a move Manila took in response to Chinas occupation of nearby Mischief Reef. Beijing also considers Second Thomas Shoal, which it calls Renai Jiao, as part of its territory.

--With assistance from Colum Murphy.

(Updates with Chinas reaction in the seventh paragraph.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
When New Hampshire voters head to the Democratic primary polls early next year, one name will conspicuously be missing from the ballot: Joe Biden.

The president opted not to file for the historically first in the nation race in order to comply with a new Democratic National Committee primary schedule  one proposed by Biden  which designates South Carolina as first in the lineup, according to the Associated Press.

However, New Hampshire law mandates that it holds the countrys first primary, according to the AP, and state officials have said they plan to follow it in spite of the DNCs reshuffling.

Bidens absence from the ballot will shake up the Granite States primary, a contest that has had outsize influence in nominating presidential candidates, according to experts. He could still win  as voters have the option to write in candidates  but other White House hopefuls may pounce on the opportunity to make headway.

The shakeup

Lesser-known candidates may well make efforts to use this to raise their visibility, Matthew McDermott, a Democratic strategist, told McClatchy News.

So far, the only other declared candidate for the Democratic nomination is Marianne Williamson, an author and spiritual leader.

New Hampshires primary should not be fodder for the shenanigans of a political party, Williamson said in a statement, referencing the view held by some that the DNCs schedule change was implemented to benefit Biden, who was carried to victory by South Carolina in the 2020 Democratic primaries.

I will be campaigning there in deference to the laws of the Granite State, not staying away in deference to the rules of the DNC, Williamson added.

Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips is also expected to enter the race, Dante Scala, a political science professor at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), told McClatchy News.

As these long-shot opponents try to make gains, Bidens campaign will have to decide how to frame the contest for New Hampshire voters, Scala said.

They could just do a benign neglect sort of thing, Scala said. Or they could say, Hey, no, we actually think South Carolina should be first, period, and therefore we discourage New Hampshire Democrats from even showing up because we dont recognize the primary is legitimate.

The Biden team is not expected to launch a formal write-in campaign, which would go against the same rules that led to his decision not to file, McDermott said. But he would anticipate an organic, grassroots effort to turn out voters and write-in the president.

Biden victory expected

Even though Biden is at a disadvantage, he is still favored to win a majority of the votes due to a number of factors, multiple experts said.

Dean Phillips starts in New Hampshire with near zero name ID, Scala said.  Marianne Williamson , the last time I checked, I think she was (polling) at single digitsso, I mean, 50% doesnt doesnt seem like an especially high bar for Biden.

Its not like Im running to Vegas and betting my house on it, but I feel hell reach that threshold, Leslie Marshall, a Democratic strategist and Fox News Contributor, told McClatchy News.

Only 6% of likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire selected Williamson as their first choice, versus 78% who picked Biden, according to a September UNH poll. Support for Phillips, who has not formally announced, was not polled.

In addition to his dominance in the polls, Biden, as the incumbent president and longtime fixture in national politics, also has the advantage of name recognition, which is the number one factor affecting voters decisions, Marshall said.

But whether or not Biden wins in the Granite State does not matter in the grand scheme of things, Melissa Michelson, professor of political science at Menlo College, told McClatchy News.

Hes going to be the nominee of the party regardless of what happens in New Hampshire, Michelson said.

Elections are purely based on numbers, Marshall said, and the state of New Hampshire does not have the numbers to put a candidate over the finish line or to sink them.

Bidens nightmare scenario

Despite New Hampshires relatively few delegates and Bidens favorable odds of winning the primary, a less-than-stellar performance could still spell trouble for him, according to several experts, citing historical precedent.

Frankly, Im not surprised Biden is completely avoiding New Hampshire, Frank Luntz, a political consultant and pollster, told McClatchy News. He wants to avoid a Lyndon Johnson / George Herbert Walker Bush moment.

Although President George H.W. Bush won 58% of the Republican primary vote in New Hampshire in 1992, his margin of victory was seen as unsettlingly small. His results carried many ominous signs and caused alarm in the White House, according to The New York Times.

Before Bush, President Lyndon Johnson, like Biden, opted to keep his name off the primary ballot in New Hampshire in 1968. He thought it was kind of beneath him to have to run for re-nomination, Scala said.

The funny thing is  well not so funny if youre Biden  but the funny thing is that Johnson wins, but his margin of victory is rather small, Scala said. The message that the national political media take out of that is, Look at how weak Johnson is. And then of course, a few weeks later, Johnson says, You know what, Im not running for re-election.

If Biden were to win a similarly slim majority in New Hampshire, hes in danger of being framed in the same way  as a weak candidate not supported by rank-and-file Democrats, Scala said. That would be the nightmare scenario, he said.

He would then face much more scrutiny in the subsequent primaries and could confront calls to step aside for a stronger candidate, he said.

He would really need to blow the doors off in South Carolina to try to put this to bed, Scala said.

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Should US arm Israel? Send humanitarian aid to Gaza? What Americans said in new polls
Joseph Edelman, chief executive officer of Perceptive Advisors LLC, pauses during a Bloomberg Television interview in New York on Feb. 25, 2016.

Joseph Edelman, chief executive officer of Perceptive Advisors LLC, pauses during a Bloomberg Television interview in New York on Feb. 25, 2016.

Hedge fund CEO and billionaire biotech investor Joseph Edelman and his wife provided a $1 million donation to help launch Do No Harm, a new conservative advocacy group pushing anti-trans legislation in statehouses across the country, HuffPost has found.

Do No Harm bills itself as a group of doctors who are concerned about ideology influencing the medical profession. The organization has not disclosed its donors or fundraising, but tax filings for the Edelman Family Foundation, which Edelman founded and chairs with his wife Susan Lebovitz-Edelman, show that the foundation approved a $1 million donation to Do No Harm in 2022, the same year the activist group was founded.

In the year since, Do No Harm has hired lobbyists or sent advocates to half a dozen statehouses and provided the model language for at least two bills restricting gender-affirming care that have become law. The group has also filed a handful of lawsuits against efforts to promote diversity in medicine.

Edelman is founder and CEO of Perceptive Advisors, a New York-based biotech hedge fund with more than $8 billion in assets under management. His home is an oceanside Orange County mansion he purchased for a record-shattering $70 million after trading in his 10,000 square-foot Park Avenue penthouse. Forbes estimates his net worth to be $2.5 billion.

The contribution to Do No Harm is one of the Edelmans single largest donations. It is also roughly the same amount of money that Do No Harm projected as revenue for 2022, suggesting the Edelmans were the groups primary funders in its initial year. In a note describing the donation on its tax filings, the foundation said it was to provide support to protect healthcare from a radical, divisive and discriminatory ideology.

Edelman is not a high-profile political donor closely associated with conservative causes. The only major electoral donations attached to his name are a handful of contributions of $50,000 or less to Democrats and Hillary Clinton in 2016 and 2017.

The Edelman Family Foundation, by contrast, which he founded in 2017, has showered six-figure grants on conservative organizations such as the Cato Institute; Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression; the anti-critical race theory Foundation Against Intolerance and Racism; Prager University, which markets right-wing videos as teaching material; and UATX, Bari Weiss  unaccredited anti-cancel culture university.

The foundation previously gave large donations to one liberal organization, the pro-abortion rights Center for Reproductive Rights, but those gifts stopped after 2021. The Edelman Family Foundation no longer supports the Center for Reproductive Rights because of their adoption of gender ideology, a spokesman for the foundation told HuffPost. The Edelmans declined to answer any other questions.

All of these bills combined has really made the environment most hostile for queer kids here.Darcy Saffer, the mother of two trans children and a resident of Montana, where Do No Harm helped pass a ban on trans care for youth

Do No Harm has used its small slice of the Edelmans wealth to launch a successful campaign against health care services for trans Americans. (The group also won a $250,000 award last December at a summit of the American Legislative Exchange Council.) The group provided model legislative language for SB 99, Montanas ban on gender-affirming care for minors, an Associated Press investigation found, and an Arkansas law that exposes medical providers to lawsuits if they provide gender-affirming care, a clear effort to create a chilling effect on doctors.

All of these bills combined has really made the environment most hostile for queer kids here, said Darcy Saffer, who lives near Bozeman, Montana, and has two trans nonbinary children. It just made the worst of the worst people here more bold in their bigotry, and that trickles down to our kids.

Parents and their trans children have sued the state, and a state court has blocked SB 99 from going into effect until the trial.

But Zooey Zephyr, a state representative from Missoula and the states first transgender legislator, said the damage is already done.

The harm comes before a bill like this bans any particular medication for trans people, she said. The harm comes when trans people in Montana see our lives debated.

During debate over SB 99 and other anti-trans laws, she said, an ER doctor who had treated a suicidal trans youth sent a letter about the experience to state lawmakers. The trans youth kept saying, My state doesnt want me. Republican lawmakers censured Zephyr and prevented her from speaking on the statehouse floor after she said supporters of the law had blood on your hands.

Transgender rights activists march through the University of Montana campus on May 3 in Missoula. Dozens were protesting the censure of transgender Montana state Rep. Zooey Zephyr, who was blocked from speaking after she said state legislators would have

Transgender rights activists march through the University of Montana campus on May 3 in Missoula. Dozens were protesting the censure of transgender Montana state Rep. Zooey Zephyr, who was blocked from speaking after she said state legislators would have "blood on your hands" if a transgender youth care ban was passed.

In addition to funding anti-trans rights advocacy through Do No Harm, the Edelman Family Foundation has donated $400,000 to the Manhattan Institute to support, in the foundations words, a gender identity initiative. While there are no public descriptions of the initiative on the Manhattan Institutes website, the right-leaning think tank has increasingly published briefs and podcasts critical of trans rights. The Manhattan Institute did not respond to a request for comment.

Parents Defending Education, an advocacy group which describes itself as a grassroots network but has close ties to the Koch network of right-wing political donors, received a $200,000 donation from the Edelmans in 2021, the year of its founding. The group opposes affirmative action and the discussion of racism or gender identity in schools.

Do No Harms Growing Impact

Do No Harm also has lobbyists working in Kansas, Missouri, Tennessee and Florida. In Florida, records show, its lobbyists fought for a bill that gives parents opposed to their childs transition an upper hand in divorce proceedings and criminalizes health care practitioners who provide gender-affirming care. The bill was incorporated into a law Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) signed in May.

Do No Harm has also assembled a network of physicians it can tap for written testimony, letter-writing campaigns and media hits. The group claims more than 5,000 doctors as members.

At least some members are compensated for their advocacy. One, an endocrinologist named Dr. Daniel Weiss, said in a deposition that Do No Harm paid him about $8,000, at $325 an hour, for submitting written testimony in states like Indiana, Utah, North Dakota and Wyoming in support of bans on gender-affirming care for minors.

The exposure led Weiss to a lucrative gig as an expert witness in the legal challenge against Indianas ban on providing gender-affirming care to people under 18, the case in which he was deposed.The Indiana Attorney Generals office paid Weiss $49,691 for four weeks of consulting, according to records obtained by HuffPost. Do No Harm and Weiss did not respond to a request for comment.

Do No Harms founder is Dr. Stanley Goldfarb, a retired kidney doctor and former University of Pennsylvania medical school professor who has written and spoken derisively about gender-affirming care and diversity initiatives in medical education.

Were going to look for people who are just OK to make sure we have the right mixture of ethnic groups in our medical schools, he griped to the New York Post last year.

Kristina Rasmussen, Do No Harms executive director, was previously an anti-tax advocate and chief of staff to former Illinois Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner.

The group initially concentrated on fighting diversity efforts in medicine, bringing lawsuits against a health journal for offering an unpaid mentorship to people of color and challenging Californias implicit bias training for physicians.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis poses for a photo after signing a host of new laws targeting transgender children and drag shows on May 17.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis poses for a photo after signing a host of new laws targeting transgender children and drag shows on May 17.

In addition to propping up medical experts, Do No Harm has paid for activist Chloe Coles travel when she testifies before state legislatures in support of bans on gender-affirming care for minors, Cole has said. (Cole, reached through her lawyer, did not respond to a request for comment.) Cole, 19, has testified before several legislatures about detransitioning after taking puberty blockers and hormones and having a double mastectomy. Conservatives often point to her story as justification for banning trans care.

Cole didnt make an appearance in Montana. But Weiss joined the debate when Do No Harm paid him to submit written testimony.

We saw many people coming from out of state to say they felt this was important for Montana, said Dr. Lauren Wilson, the president of the Montana chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which fought against SB 99. This isnt something that Montanans ever identified as an issue.

Although the law is blocked, Saffer, the mother of two trans children, and her husband are still thinking of leaving the state. Her kids are being bullied in school. And in the event the law survives a legal challenge, the nearest out-of-state gender clinic is a five-hour drive.

This is our home, she said. But if theyre going to push laws that harm our family and make it impossible to just live as a normal family, what are we doing here?

This story has been amended to clarify that Bruce Rauner is a former governor of Illinois.
On Monday, when we asked Microsoft's Bing AI Image Creator for a "photorealistic image of a man," it dutifully spat out various realistic-looking gentlemen.

But when we asked the image-generating Bing AI  powered by OpenAI's DALL-E 3  to generate a "photorealistic image of a woman," the bot outright refused. Why? Because, apparently, the ask violated the AI's content policy.

"Unsafe image content detected," the AI wrote in response to the disallowed prompt. "Your image generations are not displayed because we detected unsafe content in the images based on our content policy. Please try creating again with another prompt."

Needless to say, this was obviously ridiculous. The prompt didn't include any suggestive adjectives like "sexy," or "revealing," or even "pretty" or beautiful." We didn't ask to see a woman's body, nor did we suggest what her body should look like.

The clearest explanation for its refusal, then, considering that the AI readily allowed us to generate images of men, would be that the system's training data has taught it to automatically connect the very concept of the word "woman" with sexualization  resulting in its refusal to generate an image of a woman altogether.

We're not the only ones who have discovered striking gender-related idiosyncrasies in Bing's blocked outputs. In a thread posted to the subreddit r/bing, several Redditors complained about similar issues.

"So I was able to generate 18 images from 'Male anthropomorphic wolf in a gaming room. anime screenshot' every single one is wearing clothes," a user named u/Arceist_Justin wrote to kick off the thread, "but changing it to 'Female anthropomorphic wolf in a gaming room. anime screenshot' gets blocked 12 times in a row."

"Also 90 percent of every prompt containing 'Female' I have ever done gets blocked," they added, "including things with 'female lions' in them."

To be clear, we were able to generate some images of women. When we asked the bot, for instance, to create just an "image of a woman"  no "photorealistic" included in the prompt  we were greeted with three faux headshots of a woman, who was pictured wearing glasses and brown, curly hair cut to her shoulders. The prompt "photorealistic image of a female" also yielded four more headshots of a blonde-haired, button-down-wearing woman. (They all shared the eerily similar physical characteristics that are becoming hallmarks of AI's apparent idea of what a woman should look like: young, full-lipped, slim-nosed, skinny, and white.)

In a way, none of these responses  the refusal to generate innocuous requests for women, or the surreal, Instagram filter-like figures that the AI will generate  are entirely surprising.

Our digital world is a distorted reflection of the real one, after all, and human biases, flaws, and hyperbolic ideals are laced through the endlessly amassing data across the open web  data that today is being used to train the AI models being built by the likes of Microsoft, Google, Facebook, OpenAI, and other major Silicon Valley companies.

The internet is also riddled with pornography and spaces where women tend to be hypersexualized. As one Redditor in that r/bing conversation put it, it could well be that the AI's refusal to generate prompts involving women or females is less about blatant sexism, and more so that the "vast, vast majority of female figures in the training data aren't wearing clothes because The Internet Is For Porn."

In other words? By that logic, of course Bing's image creator automatically sexualizes women. Online, women are sexualized. Generative AI tools are predictive. If a preponderance of images of women in its training datasets are sexualized or pornographic, its assumption that prompts involving women are inherently sexual is just a product of that data.

When we reached out to Microsoft, a spokesperson for the company said that the AI's reluctance to generate images of women is a simple case of guardrail overcorrection. When the tool first launched, users quickly realized that they were able to easily generate problematic imagery, including images of copyrighted cartoon characters committing acts of terrorism. Microsoft responded by cranking its AI guardrails way up  which, while effective for mitigating the Mickey Mouse Doing 9/11 of it all, has resulted in some perplexing cases of unwarranted content violations.

"We believe that the creation of reliable and inclusive AI technologies is critical and something that we take very seriously," the spokesperson told us over email. "As we continue to adjust our content filters there may be some instances of overcorrection, and we are continuously refining as we incorporate learnings and feedback from users. We are fully committed to improving the accuracy of the outcomes from our technology and making further investments to do so."

After reaching out to Microsoft, the system seems to have eased up, with the "photorealistic" prompt now generating various headshots of women.

The issue is likely a sign of things to come, though. If the internet is a funhouse mirror version of the real world, then generative AI models are the aggregated embodiment of those exaggerations; with this new wave of publicly available generative AI tools, it seems that Big Tech has unlocked a whole new level of mediating, influencing, and even facilitating the magnified  and in many cases deeply harmful  biases and ideals embedded into its datasets. Looking ahead, there has to be a middle ground between the proliferating abundance of pornographic deepfakes and the erasure of women altogether.

To that end, you'd think that a company like Microsoft would have ensured that its tech was able to conceptualize a woman without invoking a Madonna/Whore Complex before putting it into public hands. Regardless, broadly speaking: should generative AI become the world-transforming, humanity-forwarding innovation that its creators and optimists continue to promise it'll be, it needs to offer a holistic representation of the humans that AI builders claim their tech represents. If Microsoft did indeed rework its settings after our inquiry, we're glad to see it.

More on AI: Riley Reid Launches Site for Adult Performers to Create AI Versions of Themselves
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR)  A bipartisan plan in Congress aims to help law enforcement crack down on organized retail theft, which has surged nationwide in recent years.

This is a problem that we have to deal with, Sen. Chuck Grassley , R-Iowa, said at a news conference Thursday.

Its happening in every community, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., added. Its not a one-off, its not one person.

Retail theft is the worst in these 10 US cities, study finds

They are part of a bipartisan group that has introduced a bill that would create a centralized agency to help law enforcement investigate and prosecute retail thieves, even across state lines, with the same penalties applied whether it happens in California or in Iowa, Grassley said.

The National Retail Federation says store theft surged 20% from 2021 to 2022, costing retailers more than $112 billion. Lawmakers acknowledged the increase started during the pandemic, but said they dont believe its linked to rising prices.

Retail theft rings have been around for decades, really, and they havent been impacted by the national economic cycles in the same way, Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Md., a former prosecutor, said.

Prosecutor: Serial shoplifter sign of major problem

He said the thefts arent just property crimes.

People are actually getting hurt and, in some instances, killed, he said.

He said federal intervention is necessary to protect businesses and communities.

Weve got some stores that are going to go under because of the losses that theyre suffering. Some of those are grocery stores, Ivey said.

The bill has the support of nearly 80 lawmakers in the House and Senate but many more will need to sign on for it to pass.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Three family members of Al Jazeera journalist killed by Israeli airstrike on Gaza

Xinhua) 09:19, October 26, 2023

GAZA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Three family members of Wael Al-Dahdouh, Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau chief in Gaza, were killed by an Israeli airstrike, Palestinian security and medical sources said on Wednesday.

An Israeli raid on two houses in the Nuseirat refugee camp killed several people, including the wife, son, and daughter of Al-Dahdouh, said local medical sources.

Despite being forced to relocate to the southern part of the Gaza Strip in search of safety, the Al-Dahdouh family was targeted, according to a statement released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior in Gaza. The relocation followed Israel's evacuation call ordering some 1 million people to move to the southern part of the besieged enclave on Oct. 13.

Footage on Al Jazeera English news channel shows Al-Dahdouh entering a hospital to see his killed family members.

In a statement released on social platform X, Al Jazeera confirmed the death of Al-Dahdouh's family members and extended condolence.

"The Al Jazeera Media Network extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to our colleague Weal Al-Dahdouh on the loss of his family in an Israeli airstrike," the statement said.

"Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security," it added.

According to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, 24 journalists have been killed, some with their families, and dozens more have been wounded since the beginning of the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli territory, to which Israel responded with massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has so far killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and more than 1,400 people in Israel.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
ROME (Reuters) - Births in Italy are heading for a new record low this year, according to preliminary data that points to a deepening of the country's long-standing demographic crisis.

Between January and June there were 3,500 fewer births than in the same period of 2022, the data from national statistics bureau ISTAT showed.

In 2022 as a whole, births fell 1.7% to 393,000, a 14th consecutive drop and the lowest number since the country's unification in 1861.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni this month earmarked around 1 billion euros ($1.05 billion) for measures aimed at addressing the crisis, driven in part by Italian women's struggles to combine work and motherhood and considered a national emergency for the euro zone's third largest economy.

A shrinking and ageing population leads to falling productivity and higher welfare costs in a country that already has the highest state pension bill in the 38-nation Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

ISTAT said in its report that based on the January-to-June data the fertility rate in 2023 is likely to edge down to 1.22 children per woman from 1.24 in 2022.

The rate is bolstered by immigrants, while among women of Italian nationality it stood at just 1.18 in 2022.

Other findings in ISTAT's report showed that on average women in Italy have their first child at 31 years of age, and that last year 41.5% of babies were born to unmarried women.

($1 = 0.9482 euros)

(Reporting by Antonella Cinelli, editing by Gavin Jones and John Stonestreet)
Its crazy to have people lie in your face, especially when they act like they are helping you. But thats what happened between Bettersten Wade and the Jackson Police Department in Mississippi. Heres the story.

NBC News reported, that in March Wade got into an argument with her 37-year-old son, Dexter Wade. As a result, he left home and went to hang out with a friend. As someone whos gotten into many heated arguments with my parents, I can relate.

Read more

NBC News reported, through the help of a coroners investigator, court records, public documents, and interviews with Dexters family, its been discovered on the night Dexter left his mom, he was struck by an off-duty Jackson police officer driving an SUV on the interstate.

Despite knowing Dexters name, and who his next of kin was, police failed to contact Bettersten, and let his body go unclaimed in the county morgue for months. Since his body went unclaimed, the county buried Dexters remains at a penal farm, with other unclaimed bodies, without telling his mother.

For months the lead investigator told Bettersten there were no leads. But once that investigator retired and a new one took over, they learned the truth within weeks.

More from NBC News on Dexters final moments:

Dexter Wade, 37, was less than a mile from his mothers house when he was struck and killed by an off-duty police officer on March 5. The corporal, who alerted police to the collision, was not injured. He was not suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and was not given field sobriety tests. Nor was he cited for any traffic violations. The death was ruled accidental. Dexter suffered severe injuries, including to his head. A toxicology report later noted that Dexter had PCP and methamphetamine in his system.

Earlier this month, Bettersten made the appointment to see the grave where her son was buried along with her sister, daughter, and close friend.

In an interview with WLBT, Bettersten, Before they ever put him in the ground, they had the opportunity to come to my doorstep and say, Ms. Wade, were getting ready to burry your son.

She continued, I had to buy him back from the state! I had to pay $250 just to get his body rights back.

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.
Black models in Melbourne, Australia, are taking a stand against racism in the fashion industry. According to the BBC, they said they are boycotting Melbourne Fashion Week to bring awareness to the blatant mistreatment they experience while at work.

The models shared that theyve seen staff use racial slurs in front of them, and hairdressers are not not shy when it comes to making derogatory and degrading comments about their hair. Two models said they discovered they were grossly underpaid compared to their white counterparts.

The city of Melbourne has addressed the boycott, stating that Melbourne Fashion Week prides itself on being one of the most inclusive fashion events in the world, championing those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, the LGBTIQ+ community and those with disabilities, according to the BBC.

We were not aware of any concerns relating to diversity or race involving Melbourne Fashion Week. Discrimination of any kind is not tolerated, a representative said in a statement, per the outlet.

However, 29-year-old model Jeffrey Kissubi told the BBC that the event is just one of the fashion bodies within the industry that he and his fellow models are standing up against. He hopes that the boycott will encourage international attention and a dialogue about the reality of being a person of color in the fashion industry in Australia.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jeff francis kissubi  (@jeffsterkiss_)

I worked with someone on set, and they used a racial slur in my presence thinking it was okay, he explained. That racial slur had to do with the oppression of Black people, and Im not sure if they understood that you cant use that kind of language.

He added that he and his colleagues have come forward and broken this story not because its something we wanted to do  we had to do it because it cant keep happening.

Kissubi also provided some insight on how the models organized the boycott. He revealed that the idea for the boycott was brought up a few months ago, after a group of Australian models of color came together and swapped stories about discrimination theyve faced at events and jobs.

I felt like in the past when one of us has come forward to talk about our experience, its always been dismissed. But when a group of us comes forward, it has more impact, he told the BBC.

Nyaluak Leth, a South Sudanese model who was raised in Australia and who participated in the boycott, told the BBC that she decided to speak out because theres nothing worse than having a false sense of representation at the forefront of an industry that does pride itself on individuality and cultural acceptance.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nyaluak Leth (@nmmwl)

I think its just time for the industry to turn the lens on itself and take accountability and put forward initiative to be what they say they are, she added.

The 26-year-old also opened up about an experience she had, during which another Black model asked her to braid her hair before walking the runway at a major fashion event.

In 2019 behind the scenes at Sydney Fashion Week, one of the Black models approached me and asked me to braid her hair and I said, But darling, there are so many empty seats in the hair section, but I could tell that she was really reluctant to even ask for help  because she didnt trust that anyone knew how to do her hair, and she was definitely right, she said.

Awar Malek, another model, told the Sydney Morning Herald that working in fashion down under as a Black woman is a form of self-destruction.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Awar Malek (@___rawaaa)

Nylow Ajing, a South-Sudanese-born model, said, In London, New York and Paris, you could not get away with what the fashion industry is doing here and how it treats Black models, but they dont seem to care or want to change, according to the Herald.

Despite their efforts, Leth thinks not much will change.

Were not going to really know what change is until we see it  because they can have their quotes, they can say that models are getting paid the same and have the representation, but darling, give us the receipts, she said.
The European Union is falling short of its target of providing Ukraine with one million rounds of artillery shells by March, unnamed sources told Bloomberg on Oct. 25.

The EU pledged in May to deliver one million shells per year to Ukraine, partially by digging deep into its existing stockpiles, but also by increasing domestic production capacity.

However, now that six months have passed, only 30% of the promised shells have been delivered, sources said. At this slowed rate, the EU risks failing to meet its target.

According to Bloomberg, some countries have privately asked to extend the deadline.

The U.S. has also promised to speed up the tempo of its own shell manufacturing in order to produce one million shells a year, and has encouraged European allies to pick up the pace as well.

For its own part, Ukraine has increased the capacity of its own domestic defense industry, and will be able to produce tens of thousands of drones per month, Minister for Strategic Industries Oleksandr Kamyshin said on Oct. 25.

Ukraine has also ramped up shell production, he said, but it is not enough to match the demand.

Issues unconnected to Ukraine have contributed to the slowed pace of production and related shell shortage.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas that suddenly erupted in early October has caused the U.S. to divert some of its shell stockpile originally earmarked for Ukraine to long-time ally Israel. Nonetheless, U.S. officials stressed that the U.S. was more than capable of supporting both Ukraine and Israel at the same time.

In Europe, preexisting protectionist tendencies among NATO members in regard to their domestic defense industries have also increased the cost of shells and created problems with their interchangeable use in different weapons systems.

At the same time, Russia has upped its own production capacity, perhaps up to two million shells per year, according to Bloomberg. In addition, North Korea has begun to provide Russia with ammunition and military equipment.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian drone strike likely targeted Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, Zelensky says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A crypt was broken into, and a persons body parts were stolen for the second time, Colorado deputies said.

A Crown Hill Cemetery employee called police after noticing one of the mausoleums was damaged at the Wheat Ridge location, Jacki Kelley, a public information officer with Jefferson County Sheriffs Office, told McClatchy News in a phone interview.

When deputies got to the scene Oct. 11, they noticed there was also damage to a crypt and a casket inside, McClatchy News previously reported.

The crypt, which belongs to a family from the 1900s, had been broken into in 2000 and the same persons remains were stolen, Kelley said. The casket was shut again in 2002.

Police found blood on the caskets fabric liner and inside the crypt, according to an affidavit obtained by 9 News.

McClatchy News reached out to officials for the affidavit Oct. 26 but was unable to obtain it as the investigation remains ongoing.

The persons skull and other bones were missing, the outlet reported.

Deputies have not located the remains, Kelley said.

Deputies issued an arrest warrant for John Wayne Belknap, 46, after evidence at the scene led investigators to him, according to an Oct. 25 news release by the sheriffs office.

Belknap did not have a relationship with the person in the casket, police said, and the two break-ins are not connected, Kelley said.

The reason why the same casket was targeted twice is unknown, police said.

Belknap was arrested Oct. 24 by Denver Police and was booked in Jefferson County Jail on charges of criminal mischief, abuse of a corpse, burglary, theft and desecration of a venerated object, deputies said.

Jefferson County is about 30 miles southwest of Denver.

Graveyard with colorful sarcophagi and 3,500-year-old mummies uncovered in Egypt

Body parts stolen from crypt after disturbing grave robbery, Colorado cops say

Man illegally dug up human remains, artifacts at Native American burial site, feds say
A Lubbock police deputy chief who was arrested last week on felony assault and family violence charges was released from jail Thursday after a judge significantly reduced his bond.

Judge Douglas Freitag in the 140th District Court signed an order lowering Leath McClure's bond from $500,000 to $100,000.

Lubbock police deputy chief McClure arrested, accused of aggravated assault, family violence

McClure, who had been held at the Lubbock County Detention Center since his Oct. 19 arrest, appeared in court with his attorney, David Guinn, and signed a two-year protective order that prohibits him from contacting the victim in the case against him or possessing a firearm.

Guinn said firearms have been removed from his client's home.

The protective order states McClure could face another felony charge, punishable by up to 10 years in prison, if he possesses a firearm while the protective order is in effect.

While out on bond, McClure is also required to complete a battering intervention and prevention program, according to the protective order.

The new bond resulted from an agreement between Guinn, and Gregory Barber, the first assistant district attorney for Ector County, who was appointed as the special prosecutor in the case. Lubbock County District Attorney Sunshine Stanek recused her office from the case after McClure's arrest.

McClure, 41, who oversaw the department's East Patrol Division Station, was arrested after a weeks-long investigation into allegations he beat and threatened with his gun a subordinate civilian employee he was dating for more than two years, according to court documents.

The woman told investigators that in two separate episodes of physical abuse McClure pressed his gun at her head.

He faces two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and continuous violence against family.

The agreement was reached a day before a hearing in the 140th District Court for McClure's request to reduce his $500,000 bond.

Guinn argued in his petition that the $500,000 bond "far exceeds" what was necessary to ensure his client's appearance at future court proceedings.

He said his client and his family has been unable to raise the money needed to post the bond or obtain a surety bond from a bonding company.

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock deputy police chief released from jail on reduced bond
SUFFERN  When Isabella Naana Asante was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, she was overwhelmed. She'd been living in the U.S., working as a nurse at Good Samaritan Hospital. But in Ghana, where she's from, breast cancer was often a death sentence.

Asante scoured the internet looking for the right place to seek treatment for ductal carcinoma in situ, or DCIS. A co-worker recommended breast surgeon Dr. Karen Karsif, medical director at Good Sam.

A tired and scared Asante headed to Karsif's office the next morning, after a 12-hour nursing shift.

The first thing the doctor did: embrace Asante.

Registered nurse Isabella Naana Asante was photographed at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. Asante, a breast cancer survivor is raising funds to open the Embrace Breast Cancer Care Center at Komfo Anokye teaching Hospital in Ghana.

"Before I could get the words out, she hugged me," Asante recalled Wednesday during a visit with Karsif at Good Sam. The doctor's words calmed Asante: "You're going to be OK."

Asante went on to get a double mastectomy and reconstruction and has been cancer-free.

She then moved back to Ghana, where she found that compassionate and cutting-edge breast care was often unattainable for women.

So Asante established Embrace Society Ghana, naming it after the healing moment when Karsif hugged her and let her know she would be OK.

Adding treatments, breaking stigmas

Asante's non-governmental organization aims to improve breast care throughout Ghana, from diagnosis and treatment to education and social acceptance. Basically, Asante wants to make the kind of wraparound treatment she received available to people facing a breast cancer diagnosis in her home country.

That means training women to do regular self screenings and making more diagnostic equipment available.

Lifesaving treatment: Hanif nearly died from a sickle cell crisis at age 8. Now cured, he's headed to Harvard

But Asante also wants to change the cultural stigma around breast cancer. Because treatment is so costly and years behind U.S. standards, many women don't even seek treatment. They don't want to face the stigma associated and fear it would not be successful.

Registered nurse Isabella Naana Asante, left, and Dr. Karen Karsiv were photographed at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. Asante, a breast cancer survivor and former patient of Dr. Karsif, is raising funds to open the Embrace Breast Cancer Care Center at Komfo Anokye teaching Hospital in Ghana.

She's set up a patient navigator system, similar to the kind Good Sam offers that helped Asante find insurance coverage. She's also offering counseling and financial support.

Asante is also helping establish the Embrace Breast Cancer Care Center at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, the second-largest city in Ghana.

Compassion part of care

Karsif went to Ghana in June to see Asante and help her with Embrace.

"I had done some missions in other parts of the world," Karsif said, "but it was still a bit of a shock to see very young women coming in for advanced care."

Registered nurse Isabella Naana Asante was photographed at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. Asante, a breast cancer survivor is raising funds to open the Embrace Breast Cancer Care Center at Komfo Anokye teaching Hospital in Ghana.

It wasn't just a lack of resources. "It was a cultural issue," the breast surgeon said. Women weren't trained to do self-exams. "And if they find something, they think it's a death sentence, which it's not."

As for Asante's focus on compassion, Karsif said that's an integral part of care. A doctor can't focus solely on clinical issues, she said, "when there's a patient sitting there freaking out."

Next steps

Asante's visit coincides with Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation's annual Girls' Night Out fundraiser that takes place at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Pearl River Hilton.

She's bringing a young woman from Ghana who now lives in the Bronx and received her own breast cancer diagnosis at age 33. That woman is now a patient of Karsif.

And Karsif hugged that young woman, too.

"I hug all my patients," Karsif said. "It just seems like the natural thing to do."

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Ghana breast cancer care boosted by Suffern doctor hugging patient
The Domestic Violence Shelter awarded federal funding to support victims, families

COLUMBUS  The Office of Criminal Justice Services has awarded more than $4 million in federal emergency shelter and supportive services grants for domestic violence victims and their dependents. Among the recipients is The Domestic Violence Shelter Inc., which will receive $49,490.

The 67 projects in 46 counties will help community-based, nonprofit organizations to provide emergency shelter and/or supportive services for victims of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence and their dependents, and specialized services for children and victims who are members of racial and ethnic minority populations.

NECIC Urban Farm Harvest Festival is Saturday

The NECIC Urban Farm Harvest Festival will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at 311 Bowman St., following trick-or-treat in Downtown Mansfield.

There will be activities for all ages including face painting, a bonfire and s'mores, hayrides, hot chocolate, Halloween snacks and games.

The festival is free.

Fun Center Chordsmen to salute local veterans

The Fun Center Chordsmen Barbershop Chorus will conduct its annual Veterans Salute at 7 p.m. on Nov. 6 at the First Congregational Church, 640 Millsboro Road in Mansfield. The Chordsmen recognize and honor all active and former military veterans.

The public is invited, and there is no charge.

The guest speaker will be retired Lt. Colonel Eric Steward. He served 23 years in the Air Force as a search and rescue helicopter pilot and retired from active duty in 2010. He is the pastor Mt. Zion Lutheran Church.

Busy November at Crestline Public Library

CRESTLINE  The Crestline Public Library, 324 N. Thoman St., will host three programs in November. The first, Travel to Germany with Ned Bauer, will take place at 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Create greeting cards using the "Iris Folding" method at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 14. Instructor Dana Blankenship will lead this craft. Signup is necessary, and there is a $5 fee for materials, due in cash the night of the event.

A solar eclipse education program will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 27. Astronomer Dan Everly of Lowe Volk Park and the Gorman Rupp Observatory will discuss the solar eclipse, that will cross Crawford and Richland Counties on April 8, 2024. Free solar glasses will be distributed to attendees.

Nominations sought for Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame & Fire Awards

COLUMBUS  The Ohio Department of Commerces Division of State Fire Marshal and the Ohio Department of Public Safetys Division of EMS opened their nominations for the annual Ohio Fire Service Hall of Fame & Fire Awards ceremony. The event will honor recipients April 24, 2024, at the Center of Science and Industry in downtown Columbus. Nominations of deserving candidates may be submitted at com.ohio.gov/HOFNom.

Deadline for nominations is Dec. 22. This marks the 42nd year of the annual awards ceremony.

Mansfield News Journal

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Domestic Violence Shelter grant, NECIC festival, veterans salute
A drone will now be launched to check on the sheep after concerns were raised about its welfare - Peter Jolly/Northpix

Britains loneliest sheep has been spotted on a beach at the foot of a cliff in the Scottish Highlands, where it has been marooned for more than two years.

Efforts are being made to stage a rescue attempt, and a drone will now be launched to check on the sheeps welfare.

Jillian Turner first spotted the sheep two years ago during a paddling trip from Balintore to Nigg. Ms Turner, of Brora, in Sutherland, assumed the sheep would manage to make its way up the cliff. However, when her canoe club took the same journey again recently, she was horrified to see the sheep had remained in the same place.

She called out on our approach and once again followed the group along the shore, jumping from rock to rock, calling to us the whole way, she said.

Her fleece on the first occasion was a normal years growth, however on the recent trip, the fleece was huge and touching the ground at the back.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

She added: The poor ewe has been on her own for at least two years  for a flock animal that has to be torture, and she seemed desperate to make contact with us on the two occasions weve gone past her.

It is heart-rending. We honestly thought she might make its way back up that first year.

Ms Turner said she worried whether the sheep had survived the recent Storm Babet, adding the huge tides coming in could have been traumatic for her, if not fatal.

The sheep is not of the same breed as those belonging to farmers in the local area, and it is thought it could have been part of a flock that was temporarily grazing nearby.

The sheep's overgrown fleece now touches the ground - Peter Jolly/Northpix

The landowner has made several attempts over the last couple of years to get to her but has had to abandon rescue attempts for various reasons, mainly due to the dangerous landscape, said Ms Turner.

The highlighting of this case has caused him quite some concern, fearing people randomly turning up trying to be the hero and getting injured.

Since she saw the sheep again, Ms Turner has appealed to experts to facilitate rescue efforts, including the Cairngorm Mountain Rescue Team. However, the team said they could not take any action unless called out by emergency services, such as the police or fire brigade.

Canoeists spotted the animal on a beach at the base of a steep cliff - Peter Jolly/Northpix

I also contacted the SSPCA and the call handler was sympathetic, but an inspector got back to me and indicated that the sheep was known to them but was not in any danger.

She said a semi-ridged inflatable would be needed, along with a farmer to go along with a dog to capture the sheep.

She deserves to be rescued and given a good few years with other sheep, she said. So hopefully she will make it back to a flock soon.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer.
A conservative member of U.K. Parliament posted a statement to social media Thursday outing himself as the previously unnamed lawmaker whose arrest on suspicion of rape made headlines on Wednesday. Crispin Blunt confirmed he had been arrested on suspicion of rape and possession of controlled substances. He claimed he had twice been interviewed by police about the incident, and had actually gone to the cops three weeks ago to report concerns that he was being extorted. The arrest was unnecessary as I remain ready to cooperate fully with the investigation that I am confident will end without charge, he said. Surrey Police said that a man was taken into custody on Wednesday morning in Horley. The BBC reported that its just the latest allegation of sexual misconduct in the Conservative Party with another MP in his 50s arrested on suspicion of rape in May 2022. That unnamed MP is on bail until February 2024 over accusations of sexual assault, abuse of position of trust, and misconduct in a public office.

Read it at BBC

Read more at The Daily Beast.
A British Conservative MP has been arrested on suspicion of rape, police and the lawmaker said Thursday, in the latest damaging episode for the UK ruling party.

Police in Surrey, in the south of England, said the man was also detained on possession of controlled substances.

He was arrested on Wednesday morning before being released on conditional bail while the investigation continues.

Crispin Blunt, 63, posted a statement on X -- formerly known as Twitter -- confirming that it was he who had been arrested.

"I have now been interviewed twice in connection with this incident, the first time three weeks ago, when I initially reported my concern over extortion. The second time was earlier this morning under caution following arrest.

"The arrest was unnecessary as I remain ready to cooperate fully with the investigation that I am confident will end without charge," added Blunt, a former junior minister.

Blunt was immediately suspended by his party, British media reported, meaning he now sits as an independent in the House of Commons.

He is the latest Tory MP to have been arrested in recent years, and marks another blow for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak 's struggling party, which has been beset by scandal.

In May last year, it was reported that a Tory lawmaker had been arrested on suspicion of rape and misconduct in public office, among other allegations.

A Conservative MP was also arrested over rape allegations in 2020. He was never identified, and police dropped the investigation without charge.

Sunak's Tories lag well behind the opposition Labour Party in opinion polls ahead of a general election expected next year.

The Conservatives suffered two heavy local election defeats to Labour last week, including one which was triggered when MP Chris Pincher quit after being found to have groped two men.

On Wednesday, Tory MP Peter Bone was suspended from parliament for six weeks for bullying and sexual misconduct against a staff member, a sanction that could trigger another by-election.

pdh/giv
By Laila Bassam, Tom Perry

BEIRUT (Reuters) -With an economy in ruins and a crumbling state, Lebanon can ill afford another war between Hezbollah and Israel.

Iran-backed Hezbollah knows this and is keeping Lebanon's crises in mind as it plots the next steps in the conflict with Israel, sources say.

As the war between Israel and Hezbollah's Palestinian ally Hamas reverberates across the Middle East, the risk of war between Hezbollah and Israel remains higher than at any point since their last big conflict in 2006.

Analysts say the Shi'ite group could escalate if Hamas appears to be on the ropes in the Gaza Strip 200 km (130 miles) away, while Lebanese leaders fear Israel could chose to instigate a major conflict with Hezbollah.

But with Israel warning Hezbollah it would wreak "devastation" upon Lebanon were the group to open the front, the costs of any war loom large in a country already suffering one of the most destabilising phases since its 1975-90 civil war.

"Hezbollah has no interest in war. Lebanon has no interest in war", a source familiar with Hezbollah thinking said.

The group did not want to see the country destroyed and Lebanese fleeing from the south as thousands already have, the source said.

With state coffers empty, many also wonder who would pay to rebuild. Some question whether Sunni-led Gulf Arab states that financed reconstruction in 2006 would rush to help this time, given Hezbollah's bigger role in Lebanon.

Hezbollah's clashes with Israeli forces at the border have been calibrated to avoid major escalation so far, sources say, though as of Friday 47 of its fighters have been killed since the Hamas-Israel war erupted.

However, Hezbollah has also indicated a readiness for war, reflecting its position as the spearhead of an Iran-backed alliance against Israel and the United States.

Lebanese politicians have urged Hezbollah not to escalate, though they have little to no sway over its decisions.

"The fate of Lebanon is at stake," Druze leader Walid Jumblatt said, calling this perhaps the most dangerous phase he had seen in his political career.

He said there was nothing Lebanese could do to stop a war instigated by Israel.

"But from our side, we must control matters, via dialogue and advising the brothers in Hezbollah to keep the rules of engagement as they are," he said in comments to media.

'LEBANON WILL PAY'

Israeli President Isaac Herzog has said Israel was not looking for a confrontation on its northern border "but if Hezbollah drags us into war it should be clear that Lebanon will pay the price".

One of Hezbollah's closest allies, the Christian politician Suleiman Frangieh, said on Wednesday the group did not want war. If it had, Hezbollah fighters would have stormed Israel on Oct. 7 as Hamas did from Gaza, he said.

One senior Lebanese official said governments had contacted Lebanon to cool tensions.

"We're telling them that instead of telling us to restrain Hezbollah, they need to put pressure on the Israelis not to escalate," he said.

The last several years have been particularly difficult for Lebanon, which has known little stability since independence and endured wars including Israeli invasions in 1978 and 1982.

Decades of corruption and mismanagement by ruling politicians led the financial system to collapse in 2019, wiping out savings, demolishing the currency and fuelling poverty.

The following year, Beirut was shattered by a huge chemicals explosion at the port. Hezbollah used its sway to help derail an investigation that sought to prosecute some of its allies, calling it politicised. Tensions led to deadly violence.

The state is barely functioning, while factional squabbling has left it without a president and a fully empowered government.

Nabil Boumonsef, deputy editor-in-chief of Annahar newspaper, said any war would be far more destructive than 2006, while Lebanon did not have a government capable of managing the fallout.

"We would be facing a scenario of real terror - the destruction of the infrastructure in Lebanon and aborting any prospect of economic recovery," he said.

Lebanon took years to rebuild from the 2006 war which killed 1,200 people in Lebanon, mostly civilians, and 158 Israelis, most of them soldiers.

After the war, which began after Hezbollah kidnapped two Israeli soldiers and killed others in a cross-border raid, Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah said the group had not anticipated war and would not have carried out the operation if he had known it would lead to such a conflict.

'CALLING THE SHOTS'

Seventeen years later, Hezbollah's massively expanded arsenal has cemented a power balance in its favour to the dismay of opponents who say the group is once again deciding matters of war and peace.

"They are calling the shots. This is totally unacceptable," said Ghassan Hasbani, a leading member of the Lebanese Forces party, a Christian faction staunchly opposed to Hezbollah.

"There are serious concerns about Lebanon being dragged into a destructive confrontation by Hezbollah, at a time when the fragility of its social and economic situation mean it cannot sustain any further instability."

Mohanad Hage Ali of the Carnegie Middle East Center said Hezbollah would be thinking hard about how reconstruction would be financed after any war, with questions over whether Gulf Arab states would help and how much cash Iran could provide.

"If there is no reconstruction, there is definitely a political cost for the organisation ...People will ask questions, and there will be widespread anger."

(Additional reporting by Maya Gebeily; Writing by Tom Perry; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
The judge overseeing the case of Bryan Kohberger, the man accused of murdering four University of Idaho students last year, on Thursday denied the defenses push to dismiss the grand jury indictment based on a purported error in instruction to the jurors.

Judge John Judge of Idahos 2nd Judicial District in Latah County quickly ruled on the motion after a 40-minute afternoon hearing. Kohbergers public defense team had argued that the standard of proof applied to grand juries in Idaho does not align with the language included in the state constitution or Idaho law, requiring the higher legal standard up to beyond a reasonable doubt.

Judge  along with the prosecution in a short oral response  said established precedent suggests otherwise.

I appreciate the argument. I think its really creative and I appreciate the journey back through history, Judge said in court Thursday. I mean, what it comes down to for me is that I am constrained by what I believe is settled law in Idaho. I may be wrong, but this is certainly an issue that you would have to bring up with a higher court, like the Idaho Supreme Court, and I look forward to getting that.

Just before Judge entered the courtroom, Kohberger walked in wearing a blue suit and striped gold-and-blue tie escorted by a sheriffs deputy. He took a seat next to his lead public defender, Anne Taylor, and shared a brief smile with her before directing his eyes forward, where they stayed the majority of the hearing. The other members of his public defense team, Jay Logsdon and Elisa Massoth, sat nearby.

From the outset during oral argument, Logsdon acknowledged that overturning the indictment would be a tall order. But nevertheless he argued that the secretive grand jury process already is heavily stacked against defendants, and the lack of case law in Idaho left the door open that the burden on the prosecution in indictment proceedings should be greater than reasonable doubt.

Plain language seems to support what were saying, Logsdon told Judge. Im arguing that things everyone in the state is doing are wrong and  occasionally, rarely  they say, No, no, that guys right. 

Judge countered that probable cause has been the standard in Idaho for a long time, perhaps a century. Logsdons premise was novel, he said, but existing precedent did not allow him to make a different interpretation or just change the law as a trial court.

For the prosecution, Idaho Deputy Attorney General Jeff Nye spent roughly two minutes presenting the states side. He stated simply that the Idaho Supreme Court had already ruled on the issue in prior decisions.

Earlier Thursday, Judge also heard other defense arguments about several alleged legal flaws related to the grand jury indictment. It is unclear how or whether Judge ruled on those arguments because the hearing was held behind closed doors to protect sensitive information.

Youre probably wondering why it was sealed compared to this part of the hearing, and that is because we were dealing with the procedures of the grand jury and a lot of details, Judge told attendees. The grand jury is secret, so thats why its sealed, and, whether you like it or not, its baked into U.S. Constitution and Idaho Constitution.

At the morning hearing, the defense contended that the indictment should be thrown out based on four other legal grounds: that the local grand jury was biased against Kohberger; and that prosecutors lacked sufficient evidence, used inadmissible evidence and committed misconduct in withholding evidence that would negate their clients guilt. The hearing extended into the scheduled afternoon session, delaying its start by about 35 minutes.

How we got here

Kohberger, 28, is charged with stabbing to death the four U of I students at an off-campus home in November 2022. The victims were seniors Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, both 21; junior Xana Kernodle and freshman Ethan Chapin, both 20.

At the time, Kohberger was a graduate student of criminal justice and criminology at Washington State University. WSU is located in Pullman, Washington, about 9 miles west of Moscow.

Latah County Prosecutor Bill Thompson has already stated his intent to seek the death penalty for Kohberger if he is convicted by a jury.

In May, a Latah County grand jury indicted Kohberger on four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary. A retired judge from neighboring Nez Perce County presided over the three-day process, which canceled a preliminary hearing scheduled in June on the same charges for Kohberger.

By their nature, grand juries are an intentionally secret tool prosecutors have at their disposal to move a case to trial. Defendants, their attorneys and the public are not allowed to know about them, let alone attend.

Kohbergers defense team submitted its first request to dismiss the indictment in July, alleging the error in the instructions provided to the grand jurors. In its place, they again sought a preliminary hearing for their client, where prosecutors would need to present evidence and testimony in an open forum to prove probable cause of Kohbergers guilt to a judge. The hearing also would grant the defense a chance to cross-examine witnesses.

In August, the defense filed a second motion to dismiss the indictment, citing the other four legal grounds. The prosecution objected to those efforts to throw out the indictment. Judge set September hearings to listen to the arguments, but those were rescheduled to Thursday at the request of the defense on account of an undisclosed illness at that time.

Thursdays hearings were the first time Kohberger has appeared in court in nearly two months. In late August, he waived his right to a speedy trial, which indefinitely postponed his capital murder trial, originally scheduled for the first week of this month. A hearing also was held to review whether to keep cameras in the courtroom in early September.

The Thursday hearings came less than three weeks before the one-year mark of the crime that sent shock waves throughout Idaho, and the nation. The quadruple homicide launched what developed into a nearly seven-week manhunt, ending with Kohbergers late December arrest at his familys home in eastern Pennsylvania.

Monday also marks 10 months since Kohberger was taken into custody. He made his initial court appearance in Pennsylvania on Jan. 3 and arrived the next day in Idaho to the Latah County Jail in Moscow, where he has remained since.

On Nov. 21, Kohberger will turn 29 years old in jail as he  and all those closely tracking the case  continue to await his eventual trial, which still has no scheduled date.
Bryan Kohberger returned to court today for a crucial hearing to argue why the grand jury indictment against him should be dismissed.

Judge John Judge denied the motion, but first made an unexpected decision to allow cameras in the courtroom.

The 28-year-old criminology PhD student is currently awaiting trial for the murders of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin.

Both the defence and the prosecution have been against cameras in the courtroom, but the media and the victims families have fought for cameras to be allowed.

Earlier this year, Mr Kohbergers attorneys filed the motion to dismiss the murder charges against him, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

They tried to argue errors in grand jury instructions, but the judge said it is the same instruction given to grand juries for 100 years.

Mr Kohberger was linked to the murders that rocked the town of Moscow through DNA evidence, cellphone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

His attorneys have previously tried to argue that the DNA may have been planted and that the state has not handed all the evidence for the defence to review.

Key Points

Bryan Kohberger suffers two big losses in Idaho murders hearing

Bryan Kohberger files motion to dismiss Idaho murders charges

Mother of Idaho murders victim begs people not to forget slain students

Judge denies Kohberger defence motion to throw out grand jury indictment

Bryan Kohberger suffers two big losses in Idaho murders hearing

15:00 , Rachel Sharp

Judge John Judge has denied a motion filed by Bryan Kohbergers defence team to drop all charges against him.

Earlier this year, Mr Kohbergers attorneys filed the motion to dismiss the murder charges against him, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

Judge Judge said that while he appreciated the defences argument which he called creative, he quickly ruled that the grand jurys indictment would stand.

I appreciate the argument. I think its really creative and I appreciate the journey back through history, the Judge said.

I mean, what it comes down to for me is that I am constrained by what I believe is settled law in Idaho. I may be wrong, but this is certainly an issue that you would have to bring up with a higher court, like the Idaho Supreme Court, and I look forward to getting that.

Andrea Cavallier reports.

Bryan Kohberger suffers two big losses in Idaho murders hearing

Prosecution says case should not be thrown out, theres nothing to see here

14:01 , Graeme Massie

The prosecution is now arguing why the grand jury indictment against Kohberger should not be thrown out.

There is nothing to see here. The Idaho Supreme Court has ruled on this issue.

His argument lasted less than two minutes.

Cameras will be allowed in courtroom, Kohberger judge rules

12:00 , Graeme Massie

Judge Judge made an unexpected decision at Thursdays hearing, announcing that he will not ban cameras in the courtroom for the Bryan Kohberger case.

He said cameras will stay in the courtroom though he will take more control of them.

Timeline of the Idaho college murders

10:01 , Graeme Massie

Idaho murders case timeline

What we know about the Idaho murders

07:54 , Graeme Massie

What to know about Idaho murders and suspect Bryan Kohberger

Family of victim Kaylee Goncalves have been waiting for this day

06:04 , Graeme Massie

The family of Kaylee Goncalves, who was one of the victims of the Idaho murders, posted on the family Facebook today just hours ahead of suspect Bryan Kohbergers court hearing.

Court today! Please pray that things are decided in our favor. I can barely breathe. We have been waiting for this day since Sept 20th.

ICYMI: Everything you need to know about the Idaho murders

02:03 , Graeme Massie

Its been nearly a year since the quadruple murders rocked a quiet Idaho university town.

Since then, a suspect has been arrested and a lengthy legal battle by his defence to have his charges dropped has ensued.

As the sole suspect in the brutal murders is set to appear in court on Thursday, heres everything you need to know about the case:

What to know about Idaho murders and suspect Bryan Kohberger

Who is Bryan Kohberger? The criminology graduate charged with the Idaho college murders

Friday 27 October 2023 00:05 , Graeme Massie

Bryan Kohberger became a household name across America when police swooped on his parents home in December and arrested him for the brutal murdersof four University of Idaho students.

Mr Kohberger, then a PhD criminology student at Washington State University, was accused of stabbing to death Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin in an off-campus student rental home in Moscow, Idaho, on 13 November.

The victims loved ones and those following developments in the quadruple murder case went from weeks of near-silence from law enforcement to the bombshell news of the accused killers arrest six weeks later.

Since then, people from Mr Kohbergers past  though shocked  have built a picture of a bullied loner who overcame addiction. Meanwhile, fellow students from his time just over the Idaho border into Washington describe a criminology zealot who creeped people out.

With the 28-year-old now facing the death penalty in the case, The Independent asks: Who really is Bryan Kohberger?

Who is Bryan Kohberger?

Bryan Kohberger suffers two big losses in Idaho murders hearing

Thursday 26 October 2023 23:31 , Andrea Cavallier

Judge John Judge has denied a motion filed by Bryan Kohbergers defence team to drop all charges against him.

Earlier this year, Mr Kohbergers attorneys filed the motion to dismiss the murder charges against him, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

Judge Judge said that while he appreciated the defences argument which he called creative, he quickly ruled that the grand jurys indictment would stand.

I appreciate the argument. I think its really creative and I appreciate the journey back through history, the Judge said.

I mean, what it comes down to for me is that I am constrained by what I believe is settled law in Idaho. I may be wrong, but this is certainly an issue that you would have to bring up with a higher court, like the Idaho Supreme Court, and I look forward to getting that.

Andrea Cavallier reports.

Bryan Kohberger suffers two big losses in Idaho murders hearing

Judge denies Kohberger defence motion to throw out grand jury indictment

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:22 , Andrea Cavallier

Judge John Judge has denied the defence teams motion throw out the grand jury indictment against Kohberger.

Court has adjourned for the day.

Defence argues grand jury was given the wrong instructions

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:06 , Andrea Cavallier

Kohbergers defence is arguing the grand jury was given the wrong instructions  but Judge John Judge says it is the same instruction given to grand juries for 100 years.

Attorney Jay Logsdon is trying to pick apart the precedent on what grand juries need for an indictment and that the standard of proof should include more than just probable cause, KXLY reporter Jordan Smith tweeted from the courtroom.

Mr Logsdon believes the standard for an indictment should be elevated to "beyond a reasonable doubt."

Defence makes argument to throw out grand jury indictment against Kohberger

Thursday 26 October 2023 21:47 , Andrea Cavallier

The Idaho murders suspects defence team is now arguing why the grand jury indictment against him should be thrown out.

Bryan Kohbergers attorneys filed a motion earlier this year to dismiss the indictment, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

The hearings at Latah County Courthouse were initially set for September but were ultimately pushed back to 26 October.

Kohberger hearing is underway after delayed start

Thursday 26 October 2023 21:44 , Andrea Cavallier

Bryan Kohberger and his defence team are in the courtroom for the second hearing of the day,

The first one was closed to the public.

Cell phones and laptops are allowed in the courtroom, but no recording is permitted.

There is a camera in the courtroom, but will not be public to view until after the hearing has concluded.

Will Bryan Kohbergers hearing be livestreamed?

Thursday 26 October 2023 21:15 , Andrea Cavallier

There will be a camera in the courtroom for Kohbergers hearing on Thursday, but it will not be public to view until after the hearing has concluded.

A line of people, including the victims families, members of the community and the media, has formed at the Latah County courthouse.

The hearing was supposed to start at 1pm PT/4pm ET, but appears to be delayed.

Public hearing to start any minute

Thursday 26 October 2023 21:05 , Andrea Cavallier

The Idaho murders suspect is set to appear at a Latah County courthouse for a hearing where his defence team will argue a motion to drop the charges against him.

Longest line to get into the Latah County Courthouse for a hearing in the #MoscowMurders case Ive seen in quite some time.



Todays hearing: defendant Bryan Kohbergers defense team filing a motion to dismiss his grand jury indictment.



Follow here for updates. @KHQLocalNews pic.twitter.com/qZ2WNWCJpS  Guy Tannenbaum (@guytannenbaum) October 26, 2023

Why was the 9am hearing closed to the public?

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:55 , Andrea Blanco

During Bryan Kohbergers hearing this morning, details about the secret grand jury process were discussed by the prosecution and the defence.

Mr Kohberger has argued that the grand jury received improper instructions and that the evidence they are expected to review in the case is insufficient and/or inadmissible.

Members of the press will have access to the hearing scheduled for 4pm, but the procedures will not be livestreamed. Video of the hearing will be made available once the hearing is finalised.

Legal expert says that defences move is routine

Thursday 26 October 2023 17:56 , Andrea Blanco

David Gelman, a former Philadelphia-area prosecutor who is not involved in the Idaho murders legal case, told FOX News Digital that the defences attempt to have the charges against Mr Kohberger dropped is not uncommon.

The motion to dismiss is a move that every defence attorney makes prior to trial, Mr Gelman said. If an attorney doesnt make this motion, regardless if it has merit or not, they are pretty much committing malpra=

Hearing set to begin shortly

Thursday 26 October 2023 16:24 , Andrea Blanco

The first hearing scheduled for today is set to begin shortly.

Mr Kohbergers defence is arguing that the grand jury was not given proper instructions and that the evidence they are to review is insufficient.

Bryan Kohberger to appear in court today

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:17 , Andrea Blanco

Welcome to The Independents liveblog on Bryan Kohbergers court hearing today.

The court appearances at Latah County Courthouse were initially scheduled for September but were ultimately pushed back to 26 October.

The defence will seek to argue their claims of prosecutorial misconduct, insufficient evidence and a biased grand jury.
Updated on Thursday at 9:30 a.m. EDT

The way Hurricane Otis played out early yesterday in Acapulco is the type of scenario that most challenges forecasters and keeps emergency managers awake at night. Weve seen the story before, but never this extreme version. The four Category 5 hurricanes that have hit the U.S. in the last 100 years were all at tropical storm intensity two days before landfall.

Otis was a 50-mph tropical storm ONE day before landfall and was not even forecast to reach hurricane strength before coming ashore. Its intensity increased a stunning 115 mph in the 24 hours before it hit Acapulco head-on as a Category 5  with most of that increase coming in the final afternoon and evening before it crossed the coast at 1:30 AM local time.

Even 12 hours before, the forecast only called for Otis to intensify into a 90-mph hurricane. The winds are estimated to have been 165 mph at landfall.

HOW DID HURRICANE OTIS' RECORD INTENSIFICATION CATCH ADVANCED FORECAST MODELS BY SURPRISE?

Hurricane Hunters flew into Otis Tuesday afternoon and shockingly found that storm wasnt the 80-mph hurricane that was estimated by analyzing the satellite images, but instead an intensifying 110-mph hurricane on the way to 125 mph just two hours later.

By that afternoon, the computer forecasts had caught up to the idea that the odds of Otis rapidly intensifying were much higher than average. There was no significant hint of it in the morning data.

The obvious question is, what could have been done differently? Given the data available, the official forecasts were appropriate. The most obvious missing component of the storm monitoring system was radar. In the U.S., approaching storms are monitored by an extensive network of coastal National Weather Service radars that reach out about 150 miles. There is no radar covering the Acapulco area.

In fairness to the Mexican decision-makers, Acapulco hasnt been hit by a landfalling hurricane since 1951. The primary natural threat there is earthquakes. It would naturally be a lower-priority location than other areas where hurricanes are frequent.

In addition, Hurricane Hunters were there 23 hours before landfall, so radar would have given only slightly more warning that Otis was organizing quickly.

If a system like Otis were approaching the U.S. coast, NOAA would have deployed more Hurricane Hunter flights and other atmosphere-measuring resources that might have helped the various computer forecasts pick up on the pristine environment that must have surrounded Otis during that last day. But storms that super-intensify in the last 12 to 18 hours before landfall will always be an extreme challenge.

From a communications standpoint, the National Weather Service could consider issuing a Hurricane Emergency  something of a super-high-profile Hurricane Warning  for these off-the-charts situations. That might alert people that something extraordinary is happening and immediate action is required.

In the end, however, an Otis-like storm is the most challenging scenario that forecasters and emergency planners face in the hurricane zone.

In the Atlantic, Tammy is now a hurricane-strength non-tropical system officially called Post-Tropical Cyclone Tammy. It has merged with a front that moved off the U.S. East Coast.

Ex-Tammy is forecast to meander around the ocean near Bermuda, which looks likely to receive high wind and tropical squalls over the next couple of days.

As Ex-Tammy sits over the warm ocean, the frontal components of the system might dissipate so Tammy can regain some tropical characteristics. The National Hurricane Center is giving that a 30% chance of happening. In any case, most forecasts indicate that Tammy will eventually head out to sea.

Well keep an eye on the Caribbean. Some long-range computer forecasts show the possibility of something eventually developing there.





Original article source: Bryan Norcross: Shocking Hurricane Otis resonates with forecasters and emergency planners
(The Hill)  Bud Light will become the official beer of the UFC next year, the companies announced Tuesday, a major deal for a beer maker that saw sales slow after backlash from its promotional campaign with a transgender influencer.

The sponsorship will begin Jan. 1.

Anheuser-Busch and Bud Light were UFCs original beer sponsors more than fifteen years ago. Im proud to announce we are back in business together, UFC CEO Dana White said in a statement. There are many reasons why I chose to go with Anheuser-Busch and Bud Light, most importantly because I feel we are very aligned when it comes to our core values and what the UFC brand stands for.

Have you been tipping wrong at restaurants? What experts advise

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed  but, citing a person familiar with the matter, Bloomberg reported that the global agreement marks the UFCs largest sponsorship ever, surpassing a $175 million fight-kit deal signed with Crypto.com back in 2021.

Bud Light, the top-selling beer for two decades in the United States, lost its first-place spot after boycotts over its partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.

Conservatives pressed for the boycott of Bud Light, though the controversy also affected the company with people on the left angered that it did not do enough to defend Mulvaney and its partnership during the controversy.

The company said it took several months for sales to become stable after the controversy. The company laid off almost 2 percent of its U.S. workforce amid the fallout.

Basketball Wives star sentenced to prison

Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth said the company has always been on the cutting edge of sporting moments.

As one of the largest and longest standing sport sponsors, we are excited to work with UFC to celebrate our passionate fans while always making a positive impact in communities across America, Whitworths statement said.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A new administrator was announced for Buncombe County Schools on Oct. 24.

A new administrator was announced for Buncombe County Schools on Oct. 24. Mindy Conner will join the county schools' team as the new director of special services for the 2023-24 school year.

Conner will replace current Special Services Director Amy Dupree, who is retiring this year, according to an Oct. 24 news release by BCS.

She steps into her new role with a Bachelor of Science in special education, Master of Education, and Doctor of Education in educational leadership, all from East Tennessee State University, the release said.

Mindy Conner will step into her new role as the director of special services at Buncombe County Schools on Nov. 22.

Conner has over 20 years of experience in public education, specifically in special education, serving previously as the chief student supports officer, director of special education, a high school special education teacher for Washington County Schools and director of special education in Unicoi County Schools, Tennessee.

"I entered the field of special education because I am passionate about ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, have access to high-quality education. I wanted to be part of a profession that promotes inclusion and collaboration while helping all students reach their fullest potential," Conner told the Citizen Times in an Oct. 25 email.

Conner said that Buncombe County School's student-centered, innovative and collaborative approach attracted her to come work for the district.

The selection process to fill the role was thorough. A survey was given out to all exceptional children's staff members, and an interview committee was put together, consisting of EC teachers, principals, a school psychologist, a program placement specialist and a district leader, according to the release.

It was crucial that the needs of our students and the voices of our faculty guided the identification of our new director of special services. I am confident that we have found the right person to serve our students, families, and staff," Associate Superintendent Jennifer Reed said in the release.

The Buncombe County Schools Special Services Department supports students in physical therapy, speech and language support, autism services, occupational therapy, behavior support, psychology, Pre-K services, homebound services, and deaf and hard of hearing services.

Conner's first day will be on Nov. 22.

The previous director of special services made an annual salary of $110,344 in 2022, according to a Citizen Times public record request of what Buncombe County School employees make annually.

Her deep knowledge of special education, her belief in every students ability to achieve their potential, and her commitment to building strong relationships are readily apparent," Superintendent Rob Jackson said in the release.

"As we continue to grow and improve in meeting the needs of all of our students, having leaders who prioritize being in the classroom and who listen and learn from our teachers is paramount to our continuing to be the best choice for students and their families.

A year of new hires

This announcement comes after a summer of new hire announcements, with Buncombe County Schools filling seven (now eight) administrator and principal positions for the 2023-24 school year.

Enka High School August 18, 2023.

New principals 2023-24

Catherine Haughney, principal of Community High School.

Anna Austin, principal of Buncombe County Early College and Middle College and the Buncombe County Center for Career Innovation

Amberle Dalton, principal at Enka Middle School.

Dawn Rookey, principal of Owen High School in Black Mountain.

New administration 2023-24

Michele F. Smith, career and technical education director.

Jamie Johnson is the first assistant superintendent of educational equity and student support at BCS  a new position added this school year.

Donna Lanahan, director of secondary education.

Mindy Conner, director of special services.

Buncombe County Schools has almost 4,000 employees, making BCS one of the county's largest employers alongside Ingles and Mission Hospital, according to a report from the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.

With six different school districts, and 45 schools, there are around 22,000 students who attend county schools, according to the National Center of Education Statistics.

More: Who are the new Buncombe County Schools administrators for 2023-24?

More: Who are the new Buncombe County Schools principals, administrators for 2023-24?

McKenna Leavens is the education reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at mleavens@citizentimes.com or follow her on Twitter @LeavensMcKenna. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: New administrator was announced at county schools, who is she?
The workers of White Burger restaurant wait to take orders, in Kramatorsk, Ukraine, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023. The restaurant was reopened in September of the previous year following the successful counteroffensive of Ukrainian army in the Kharkiv region. (AP Photo/Hanna Arhirova)

KRAMATORSK, Ukraine (AP)  In a city where damaged buildings are everywhere, a destroyed pizzeria stands out as a painful reminder of lives and livelihoods dashed in an instant.

A Russian ballistic missile struck the popular eatery in eastern Ukraine in June, killing 13 people including an award-winning Ukrainian writer and several teenagers. Seven of the victims were staff.

Today, fresh flowers and notes have been placed where the entrance once was. A T-shirt, part of the waitstaffs uniform, hangs near the makeshift memorial with the inscription We will never forget.

As an entrepreneur, of course, I regret the loss of property, but theres something that cannot be returned: human lives, said Dmytro Ihnatenko, the owner of RIA Pizza.

The bombed-out building in Kramatorsk underscores the massive risks for businesses in this front-line city in the Donetsk region. But that has not deterred many other business owners who have reopened their doors to customers in the past year.

The city council estimates there are 50 restaurants and 228 shops now open in Kramatorsk, three times the number open at the same period last year. Most are believed to be existing business that closed in the early days of the war and have reopened.

We understand that this is a risk, and we are taking it because this is our life, said Olena Ziabina, chief administrator of the White Burger restaurant in Kramatorsk. Wherever we are, we need to work. We work here. This is our conscious choice.

The White Burger chain operated mainly in Donetsk and Luhansk regions before the war. But after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it could reopen only in Kramatorsk. It launched two new restaurants in the capital, Kyiv, and Dnipro to keep the chain alive.

Kramatorsks restaurant is the chain's top performer in profitability, even though prices are 20% lower than in the capitals restaurant.

After the attack on RIA Pizza, White Burger's operators didnt consider closing the Kramatorsk restaurant, Ziabina said. I cried a lot, she said, recalling the day she heard about the attack.

Kramatorsk's economy has adapted to war. The city houses the Ukrainian armys regional headquarters, and many cafes and restaurants are frequented mainly by soldiers as well as journalists and aid workers.

Ukrainian women often travel there to reunite for few days with husbands and boyfriends.

Soldiers joke that Kramatorsk is their Las Vegas, providing all the luxuries they need like good food or coffee. But restaurants offer only non-alcoholic beer due to the city's proximity to the battlefield.

The city streets are mostly empty except for military cars. The residents who stayed avoid big gatherings and crowded places.

Still, it is a far cry from the wars early days, when Kramatorsk's shops, restaurants and cafes were shuttered. Tens of thousands of people were left without jobs, and factories were closed.

Probably, thanks to the military, we can still come back to this city, said Oleksandr, who asked to be identified only by his first name because of security concerns.

He is a co-founder of one of the numerous military shops in Kramatorsk serving soldiers. Oleksandr said he marks up prices by only 1 hryvnia (2 cents) above the manufacturers price. He said the aim isnt to earn money but to provide the military with the necessary equipment.

Many residents cherish new work opportunities brought by the reopening of shops and restaurants.

But there are fewer options for older people, said Tetiana Podosionova, 54. She worked at the Kramatorsk Machinebuilding Plant for 32 years, but the plant closed due to security risks when the war started.

I had hoped to work at the factory until retirement, Podosionova said. Most jobs are now in restaurants and shops, where she had no experience.

Finally, she found a job at Amazing Fish Aquarium, which resumed operations months after the war began. The aquarium has hundreds of exotic fish and dozens of parrots and remains open to entertain residents, who are often stressed from missile strikes.

But every reopened business carries risk. Ihnatenko, the pizzeria owner, still comes to his destroyed restaurant every day when he's in Kramatorsk. He doesn't know why. He looks tired. His voice is hardly above a whisper.

He, like many business owners, saw Ukraine's successful counteroffensive in the neighboring Kharkiv region last year as a sign that life could return to Kramatorsk.

It seemed safer here, he explained, standing in the rubble of his restaurant.

He has no plans to rebuild and reopen yet again.

His tragic experience shows the challenges that business owners face while keeping their doors open.

A missile can come at any moment, he said.

___

Volodymyr Yurchuk contributed to this report.

___

Follow APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine
The Cahokia Heights community, the American Red Cross, friends and family are coming together to do what they can to help the persons displaced by the fire at Touchette Elderly Apartments where one resident died Wednesday.

Francella D. Jackson, executive director of the Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center at 509 Camp Jackson Road, said they are housing 20 of the displaced residents, and friends and family have opened their homes to some others.

Authorities said as many as 50 people were brought out of the building that houses 75 residents who are 65 or older.

We have cots at the Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center and we are providing all of the basic needs to victims, including food and shelter. The American Red Cross set up shelter here and they have been here all night long making sure the victims needs are met, Jackson said Thursday. It is a collective effort. We are all working together to provide whatever help we can.

Cahokia Heights Mayor Curtis McCall said, We are working together to provide whatever assistance we can to our seniors. This is a tragedy and all of our hearts are saddened as a result. We are sending condolences and prayers to the family who lost a member of their family.

We are a strong community. Together we will get through this very painful time, he said.

McCall said he is thankful and grateful that there was not more loss of life. He said he is praying for those who were displaced and is doing his best to see that they have the basic things they need.

Debbie Duncan plays with the granddaughter of a temporary resident at the Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center on Oct. 26, 2023. Oh, Im not doing this for work, Duncan said, Im just here to help.

The fire, which occurred Wednesday at 5880 Bond Ave., started in the second floor apartment of the victim who lost her life, according to Sharon Davis, assistant fire chief of the Camp Jackson Fire Department.

The victim was identified as 82-year-old Judy St. John.

We were very fortunate not to have any other casualties, Davis said.

Davis said the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Illinois State Fire Marshals Office.

It started in one apartment unit on the second floor, Davis said. That smoke subsequently spread throughout that floor and to the adjacent floors. The second floor had heavy smoke. The first floor had light smoke. The third floor didnt have too much smoke at all.

Asked about flames, Davis said, Just in the one apartment. It was on one side of the unit and it had almost burned itself out by the time we got to that apartment. We did the rescues first.

Davis said it wasnt a very big fire but just a fire that put up a lot of smoke.

Our first priority was getting all of the residents out of the building, Davis said.

Davis said when she first arrived on scene, there was smoke from the floor to the ceiling and limited visibility.

Daniel Gibson, 66, eats food supplied by the American Red Cross at the Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center on Oct. 26, 2023, after being displaced from an apartment due to a fire the day before.

Most of the residents were able to walk, she said.

Some of them we sent with residents that could walk, she said. They helped the ones that did not walk as well. The lobby attendant and the maintenance worker helped them down the stairwell.

Davis said a special emergency services medical division has been at the community center around the clock assisting the residents.

I have actually been talking to pharmacists today to get their medicines replaced because none of the medicine that was in that building can be used, she said.

Davis said they are getting great cooperation from the pharmacies.

Firefighter challenges

Davis is supposed to be on light duty since she broke her foot in another apartment fire in September but still responded to the Touchette fire on Wednesday.

I fell on some steps and my foot got tangled up in a hose. I am actually on light duty, she said of her injury.

When asked about the challenge of working with her injury, Davis chuckled and recalled her mother telling her God watches out for children and fools.

Sometimes we happen to be both, she said with a laugh.

Well, you know, I have devoted my life to this community. I will do whatever I have to for them, she said.

Asked about the sinking feeling she grapples with in situations like the Cahokia Heights fire where people are trapped and there is loss of life, Davis said, Not everybody can do what I do. Thats why I do it.

Cahokia Heights Mayor Curtis McCall speaks during a news conference at the Cahokia Heights Fitness and Community Center on Oct. 26, 2023. The conference was to address housing solutions for dozens of seniors who were displaced from Touchette Elderly Apartments due to a fire the day before.
A U.S.-based pro-Muslim group blasted President Biden after he expressed "no confidence" in the Palestinian death toll figures reported by Hamas.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) condemned what they called "shocking and dehumanizing" remarks made by Biden during a press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday.

At the White House, Biden rejected a question posed by PBS correspondent Laura Barron-Lopez about the Palestinian death count provided by the terrorist group Hamas, saying he has "no confidence" such numbers are truthful.

"We are deeply disturbed and shocked by the dehumanizing comments that President Biden made about the almost 7,000 Palestinians slaughtered by the Israeli government over the past two weeks," CAIR Executive Director Nihad Awad said in a statement.

BIDEN REFUTES PBS REPORTER'S QUESTION ON HAMAS-PROVIDED GAZA DEATH COUNT: I HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IT'S TRUTHFUL

President Biden delivers remarks during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of Australia in the Rose Garden of the White House on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.

"The Israeli government has openly admitted that it is targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Journalists have confirmed the high number of casualties, and countless videos coming out of Gaza every day show mangled bodies of Palestinian women and children  and entire city blocks leveled to the ground. President Biden should watch some of these videos and ask himself if the crushed children being dragged out of the ruins of their family homes are a fabrication or an acceptable price of war. They are neither," Awad continued.

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He demanded an apology from Biden and called on the president to "condemn the Israeli government for deliberately targeting civilians, and demand a ceasefire before more innocent people die."

Reached for comment, the White House noted that the president, in his answer and in his opening remarks, reiterated the importance of avoiding any Palestinian civilian casualties. Biden has repeatedly said the loss of innocent Palestinian life is a tragedy.

During a joint press conference Wednesday alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Barron-Lopez attempted to press Biden on whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was keeping his word of limiting civilian casualties in Israel's response to the horrific Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas.

ISRAEL CONDUCTS GROUND INCURSION IN GAZA AS TANKS ROLL THROUGH BORDER AREA: LIVE UPDATES

"In the 18 days since Hamas killed 1,400 Israelis, the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry says Israeli forces have killed over 6,000 Palestinians, including 2,700 children," Barron-Lopez said. "You've previously asked Netanyahu to minimize civilian casualties. Do these numbers say to you that he's ignoring that message?"

"What they say to me is I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed," Biden responded.

Biden continued, "I'm sure innocents have been killed, and it's the price of waging a war. I think we should be incredibly careful Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that they're focusing on going after the folks that are the propagating this war against Israel. And it's against their interest when that doesn't happen. But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using."

Last week, several news organizations rushed to report claims made by the Gaza Health Ministry that Israel bombed al-Ahli Baptist Hospital through an airstrike resulting in over 500 civilian casualties.

Subsequent reporting and intelligence found it was an explosion in the hospital's parking lot stemming from a misfired rocket fired by Hamas ally Islamic Jihad, resulting in a death toll a fraction of what Hamas had first alleged.

NORTH KOREA ACCUSES ISRAEL OF GENOCIDE IN GAZA, LABELS US AN ACCOMPLICE

CAIR, the largest Muslim advocacy group in the nation, has faced controversy for its alleged ties to Islamic extremist groups.

In 2009, the FBI severed its once-close ties to CAIR amid mounting evidence that the group had links to a support network for Hamas.

Local chapters of CAIR were shunned in the wake of a 15-year FBI investigation that culminated in the conviction of Hamas fundraisers at a trial in which CAIR itself was listed as an unindicted co-conspirator.

The United Arab Emirates named CAIR a terrorist organization in 2014.

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In a statement on its website in May 2013, CAIR rejected suggestions it had links to terrorism.

"CAIR is not is [sic] 'the Wahhabi lobby,' a 'front group for Hamas,' a 'fundraising arm for Hezbollah,' '...part of a wider conspiracy overseen by the Muslim Brotherhood...' or any of the other false and misleading associations our detractors seek to smear us with," the organization said. "That we stand accused of being both a 'fundraising arm of Hezbollah' and the 'Wahhabi lobby' is a significant point in demonstrating that our detractors are hurling slander, not fact. Hezbollah and the Salafi (Wahhabi) movement represent diametrically opposed ideologies."

Fox News Digital's Joseph A. Wulfsohn and Gregg Re contributed to this report.





Original article source: CAIR slams Biden remarks on Palestinian civilian deaths: 'Shocking and dehumanizing'
SACRAMENTO, Calif.  California continues to burnish its reputation as a progressive state for health policy as Gov. Gavin Newsom signed bills expanding paid sick leave, adding bereavement leave for miscarriages, and boosting wages for health workers.

Newsom blessed a rare agreement between labor and the health industry to gradually phase in a nation-leading $25-an-hour statewide minimum wage for health workers. Estimates based on earlier versions of the bill found it would increase health care costs by billions of dollars each year and put pressure on the states Medicaid program to raise reimbursement rates for long-term care to maintain patients access to services. Other new laws aim to strengthen reproductive rights, as well as patient protections against errant doctors and pharmacists and surprise ambulance bills.

Still, in a possible sign of his national ambitions and experience as a businessperson and father, the Democrat tempered the bill-signing season by vetoing free condoms in schools and possession of psychedelic mushrooms.

He rejected decriminalizing such hallucinogens even as he supported their therapeutic potential as an exciting frontier. He urged lawmakers to try again next year, this time adding specific treatment guidelines including recommended doses and protections for people with underlying psychoses. The bills lead author, state Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco, had introduced the proposal amid successful decriminalization efforts in Colorado, Oregon, and some cities, saying veterans and others suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and depression should not be penalized for seeking relief.

Newsom also shot down a $35 price cap for a 30-day supply of insulin in favor of his own price-cutting efforts, touting his administrations $50 million contract to begin sourcing its own insulin as early as next year. He argued this approach would avoid indirect price hikes for consumers that could come in the form of higher premiums to cover cheaper insulin.

The governor similarly showed caution in vetoing health and safety protections for domestic workers, arguing that private households and families cannot be regulated in the exact same manner as traditional businesses.

The new laws will take effect in 2024 unless otherwise noted:

Sick Days

California workers will be entitled to five paid sick days a year under SB 616, by state Sen. Lena Gonzalez, a Democrat from Long Beach. Thats up from the three days required in California since 2014, but short of the seven days Gonzalez originally sought. Advocates say workers shouldnt have to show up sick, potentially spreading illness, because they cant afford to stay home. But the California Chamber of Commerce included the bill on its annual job killer list and said it would harm struggling small businesses.

Miscarriage and Failed Adoption Leave

Parents who experience miscarriages, stillbirths, failed adoptions, or a breakdown in a surrogate pregnancy agreement will all be entitled to bereavement leave under SB 848. The bill, by state Sen. Susan Rubio, a Democrat from the San Gabriel Valley, will include unpaid reproductive loss leave under the states existing law allowing up to five days of bereavement leave upon the death of a family member. She called reproductive losses one of the most traumatizing events a person can experience, noting that Illinois and Utah enacted similar laws in 2022. The bill applies to companies with five or more employees.

Abortion Protections

A year after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, Newsom signed nine abortion-related laws, adding to the strong protections for the procedure that California lawmakers adopted a year ago. Among them is SB 345, which increases protections for medical providers who live in California but mail abortion pills or gender-related medications to states where they are illegal. The bills lead author, state Sen. Nancy Skinner, a Democrat from Berkeley, said in a statement that the laws strengthen Californias position as the national leader for reproductive freedom. Another bill, AB 1646, by Assembly member Stephanie Nguyen, a Democrat from Elk Grove, allows doctors from other states to receive abortion training in California without having to obtain a California medical license.

Behavioral Health Funding

Voters will get a direct say in March on Proposition 1, Newsoms key behavioral health initiative. Having signed a bipartisan package of bills, Newsom will ask voters to approve billions of dollars aimed at alleviating Californias seemingly incorrigible homelessness crisis. He says that represents a paradigm shift in how California addresses the dilemma, but the proposition is opposed by those worried about expanding involuntary treatment and diverting funding from existing community-based programs. He also signed SB 43, expanding the states conservatorship law to make it easier to force people into treatment for mental illness or addiction.

Medical Licensing Fees

The Medical Board of California will be required to follow new procedures while investigating complaints, while doctors will pay higher licensing fees to help fund those investigations. SB 815, by Sen. Richard Roth, a Riverside Democrat, mandates the new complaint procedures amid criticism of the board by patient advocates, who say bad doctors often escape sanction. It will gradually boost the license renewal fee to $1,255 every two years, up from $863 currently. It also repeals AB 2098, passed last year, that said it is unprofessional conduct for doctors to spread misinformation or disinformation related to covid-19. The law was entangled in multiple lawsuits with conflicting rulings, including one by a federal judge who called it unconstitutionally vague.

Pharmacy Errors

Medication errors harm at least 1.5 million Americans annually and are among the most common medical errors, according to the National Academy of Medicine. In California, they are the top violation resulting in a citation. AB 1286, by Assembly member Matt Haney, a Democrat from San Francisco, imposes what he said is a first-in-the-nation requirement that retail pharmacies report every error. It also gives the pharmacist in charge at each store the authority to increase staffing and the duty to inform the stores management of dangerous conditions. The California State Board of Pharmacy can close a pharmacy if the conditions arent improved.

Surprise Ambulance Bills

Patients who call for an ambulance can sometimes receive surprise bills topping $1,000, according to Health Access California. AB 716, by Assembly member Tasha Boerner, a Democrat from Encinitas, protects consumers from being charged out-of-network costs for ambulance services and uninsured Californians from being charged what she calls inflated ambulance rates. An analysis by the California Health Benefits Review Program said that would require health plans and insurers to pay more for out-of-network services.

Lifesaving Medications

AB 1651, by Assembly member Kate Sanchez, a Republican from Rancho Santa Margarita, will require schools to have emergency epinephrine auto-injectors for use by school nurses or trained volunteers to treat life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. More than 15% of children with food allergies have had a reaction at school, according to the Latino Food Allergy Network, which sought the bill.

Food Safety

By 2027, California will become the first U.S. state to ban four chemicals widely used in processed food and drinks, following the lead of the European Union and other nations. AB 418, by Democratic Assembly members Jesse Gabriel and Buffy Wicks, initially drew headlines because it would have banned titanium dioxide, which is used in Skittles, but that chemical was dropped from the bill. Opponents said the U.S. and California already have sufficient food safety and food labeling requirements. Newsom and the bills supporters chided the Food and Drug Administration for failing to take action.

This article was produced by KFF Health News, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.

KFF Health News is a national newsroom that produces in-depth journalism about health issues and is one of the core operating programs at KFFan independent source of health policy research, polling, and journalism. Learn more about KFF.

Subscribe to KFF Health News' free Morning Briefing.
[Source]

California Gov. Gavin Newsom met with Chinese President Xi Jinping , during a weeklong mission to negotiate climate partnerships between the U.S. and China.

The climate partnership: During Newsoms diplomatic visit to Beijing on Wednesday, he signed a climate partnership with Guangdong Province, setting goals for reducing carbon reliance and increasing renewable energy use. He reportedly plans to sign similar agreements with four other Chinese provinces.

"Turning the page": Newsom also met with Vice President Han Zheng and other Chinese officials, discussing deepening cooperation in environmental issues between California and China. Although the meeting comes amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and China, Newsom expressed his hope to renew the friendship and engage on fundamental issues.

Im here in expectation, as you suggest, of turning the page, of renewing our friendship and reengaging [on] foundational and fundamental issues that will determine our collective faith in the future, Newsom said, according to the Associated Press.

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Other discussions: Xi and Newsom discussed the issue of fentanyl, a synthetic drug, and Chinas role in combating the transnational shipping of its chemicals. Newsom also discussed human rights issues and expressed support for the One-China policy.

His trip has drawn positive comments from Chinese officials, emphasizing the importance of sub-national cooperation for the China-U.S. relationship. Newsoms trip has fueled expectations of a possible visit by Xi to the U.S. next month.

I hope your visit will enhance mutual understanding between the two sides and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the healthy and stable development of Sino-U.S. relations, Xi said, according to Chinas state broadcaster CCTV.

Trending on NextShark: Watch: Carefree Asian dad sleeping on plane floor wins praise on TikTok

About Newsom: In California, Newsom has enacted laws and regulations to transition the state away from fossil fuels, including a ban on new gas-powered car sales by 2035, a commitment to stop adding carbon dioxide to the atmosphere by 2045 and an end to oil drilling by 2045. His efforts on climate action have raised his national profile, sparking speculation about a potential White House run in 2028.

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Imperial Beach, Calif. (Border Report)  The Surfrider Foundation this week submitted a petition to California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Joe Biden calling for an emergency declaration to address what it calls a serious public health and environmental crisis along the Tijuana River Valley.

According to the state of California and numerous organizations like Surfrider, millions of gallons of untreated sewage, dangerous chemicals, and trash flow across the US-Mexico border through the Tijuana River Valley Watershed every day, with most of the debris and pollution ending up north of the border and in the Pacific Ocean.

Surfrider says that since October 2018, the International Boundary and Water Commission has documented more than 100 billion gallons of cross-border flows carrying toxic waste through the Tijuana River, with more than 37 billion gallons of polluted water crossing the border this year alone.

Surfrider joined the California Coastal Commission and other plaintiffs in filing a complaint against the IBWC, alleging that it violated the Clean Water Act by not addressing cross-boundary pollution. As part of a settlement, the IBWC agreed to, among other things, improve its canyon collector network, support a main channel berm, (and) improve its stakeholder communication.

Odor monitoring station measuring sewage smell along California-Mexico border

Surfrider says this is a problem affecting the health of thousands of U.S. residents in cities such as Imperial Beach, California.

We need this fixed, said Bethany Case, an Imperial Beach resident and member of Surfrider, whose mission is to protect the worlds oceans, waves and beaches for enjoyment. We are hearing every day that more and more people are having (gastrointestinal) issues, that people are developing allergies, and we have so many people that are reporting illnesses, and were being largely ignored and its frustrating.

Bethany Case is an Imperial Beach resident, Clean Border Water Now lead volunteer and Surfrider Foundation member. (Salvador Rivera/Border Report)

Case also says the sewage flows pose a serious hazard to people who enjoy recreating in the ocean and visiting the beach.

For us to not even be comfortable walking on the beach , Case lamented. We cant open our windows at night, we have to make sure that we warn visitors about not going in the water and obeying the signs. It smells most of the time.

The coastline in the south portion of Imperial Beach has been closed for more than 670 consecutive days, according to San Diego County data.

If you live here, you cannot escape it, and so they have to accept the health hazards and its not right, Case said.

U.S. senators ask for millions to prevent Mexican sewage from flowing into California

Case hopes Newsom does take into account the petition and asks Biden to declare a state of emergency for the area.

This petition has over 3,200 signatures that says please somebody do something.

Cases says if an emergency declaration is made, it will free up funding and cut a lot of the red tape that is preventing several pollution and sewage mitigating projects from getting off the ground.

In response to an inquiry from Border Report, the governors office shared the letter that it sent to the Coastal Commission, stating that the longstanding Tijuana River sewage crisis has been a priority of Newson and his administration.

The letter further stated that Newsom declaring a state of emergency wouldnt aid the response to the crisis, explaining that the situation would likely require a disaster declaration from the federal government.

A state proclamation of emergency is not necessary to trigger a federal emergency declaration, the letter states.

On the other hand, the letter outlines actions Newsom has taken to address the issue, including engaging with federal and binational partners; joining local municipalities in supporting Sens. Alex Padilla and the late Dianne Feinsteins call for $310 million to address the crisis; and working to unlock federal funds.

Visit the BorderReport.com homepage for the latest exclusive stories and breaking news about issues along the United States-Mexico border

The bottom line is, we need this fixed, it is a public health crisis, Case said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Gov. Gavin Newsom proudly likes to highlight Californias trajectory toward becoming the worlds fourth-largest economy, surpassing Germany. This remarkable ascent owes much to thriving business ventures from Silicon Valley, Hollywood and the states robust agricultural industry, with an increasingly significant contribution from the Latino workforce.

Yet, despite the workforce being predominantly Latino, a glaring disparity exists: disproportionately few of these businesses are owned by Latinos. This disheartening reality underscores the limited opportunities for Latino entrepreneurs throughout the state.

The consequences of this inequity extend beyond the individual level. It has great potential to stifle Californias economic prowess. Our elected leaders must urgently prioritize the growth of Latino-owned businesses in the years ahead.

Opinion

For nearly a decade, Latinos have been the largest ethnic group in California, with their age skewing significantly younger relative to the state average. Projections consistently show that Californias young Latino population will continue to grow well into the next several decades. Simply put, Californias productivity will increasingly rely on the economic contributions and well-being of Latinos.

New research from the UCLA Latino Policy & Politics Institute found that there are over 730,000 million employer businesses in California. Latinos own approximately 85,000 of those businesses  only 11%, despite Latinos constituting 40% of the workforce and 39% of the states overall population.

In stark contrast, white Californians represent 38% of the workforce yet own 60% of businesses with over 458,000 firms statewide.

This disparity is not confined to business ownership rates. It also extends to financial performance. Latino-owned businesses in the state typically generate lower revenues, which leads to lower wages and a smaller workforce compared to white-owned counterparts.

Public officials must keep all of these facts in mind as they take actions to address systemic barriers faced by entrepreneurs of color in California.

Legislators recently awarded California State Fullertons Center for Entrepreneurship a two-year state grant to further the centers mission to educate and inspire innovators with a social impact focus. Cal State Fullerton is an ideal location for this type of state spending, with Latinos accounting for half of the student body. Yet the grant was only $500,000 in its first year  enough to power only a few micro-businesses.

Three years ago, the California Legislature also approved the Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development (SEED) Initiative to support the entrepreneurship of immigrants and limited English proficient individuals. However, in the 2021-2022 fiscal year, the program only received 57 applicants. While programs like SEED are a step in the right direction, the state must invest more resources and spending into loans, incubators and education programs to ensure that a higher number of potential entrepreneurs of color can reach their full potential.

Through institutions like the Governors Office of Business and Economic Development and the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, the state could and should direct more resources to programs that focus on providing financial support and access to capital and entrepreneurship education tailored to communities of color. Should policymakers not take urgent action, disparities in Latino business ownership may widen, ultimately hurting the states economy.

Newsom underscored the need for such investment in 2021 when he referenced Latino businesses in the context of a post-COVID world.

We need each and every one of you to come back stronger because when Latinos succeed, our state truly does flourish, he said.

Today, California falls short of achieving its true economic potential due to the state of Latino businesses. But by investing further in Latino entrepreneurs, California has the opportunity to unleash innovation, create more jobs and boost economic growth.

Jose Garcia is an analyst with the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute. His focus areas include inequality and economic development.
It is nothing short of a crisis when a family struggles to afford a place to live. For too many Californians, sky-high housing costs eat up more than half of their income, leaving little for other basic needs like food, utilities, transportation, childcare and healthcare. On any given night, more than 171,000 Californians experience homelessness.

Low-income people, people of color, seniors and other marginalized people are disproportionately harmed, but the problem impacts all of us.

While the California Legislature and local governments have made some strides on housing, our state policymakers and government institutions have not owned the scale, vastness and insidiousness of the problem.

State leaders need to embrace housing as a foundational component of our social contract. Californians need to afford the roofs over their heads in order to partake in the economy and prosper. Ending this crisis feels intractable, but solutions are within reach and making substantial progress will yield profound economic, public health and social benefits for California.

Opinion

According to federal data, half of all Americans living on the streets live in California. Homeless service and housing providers have radically increased the number of people they serve, but their progress is undermined as new households fall into homelessness because rents outpace wage growth and affordable housing production is stifled.

State leaders have an imperative to protect economically vulnerable Californians from the threat of displacement and homelessness. During the pandemic, expanded safety net programs had nearly immediate impacts on household well-being. Between 2019 and 2021, Californias poverty rates dropped by a third and child poverty was cut in half, pulling nearly 1.7 million children out of poverty. California should learn from this and strengthen our safety net with direct cash assistance, rental assistance and other programs that put money in the pockets of low income households. Combined with policies to limit unfair rent increases and evictions without cause, this would provide stability to millions of families and other struggling people who cant wait for us to build new affordable homes.

California will have to spend $18 billion a year  about what we spend on prisons  over the next decade to build the 1.2 million homes necessary to meet urgent housing needs. The state has increased housing spending, but after years of minimal investment, current funding reflects a fraction of the need. Scaling up will take creativity and courage, including ongoing investments from our state general fund and the adoption of new revenue measures to support housing and homelessness programs. Current efforts to put statewide housing bonds and a proposal to lower the voter threshold for local housing bonds on the ballot in 2024 are a crucial step forward.

Scaling and streamlining existing affordable housing programs would allow developers to save money and work faster. And removing archaic discriminatory policies that make it difficult to build multi-family housing in opportunity rich communities, or require voter approval to build publicly funded housing, would create savings and new opportunities to build affordable homes. Providing funding to local governments, non-profit affordable housing providers and community land trusts to purchase housing on the private market to preserve as permanently affordable would ensure these homes stay affordable even as neighborhoods change.

All of this must be done with a focus on addressing deep racial inequities in our housing system. For decades, we have ignored the legacy of explicitly and implicitly racist policies that lock people of color out of ownership opportunities, create and reinforce neighborhoods of deep racially concentrated poverty and contribute to widespread housing anxiety for people of color. A recent study by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition found that the gap in home ownership rates between Black and white families is at a 120 year high. And research by the California Public Policy Institute shows that since the COVID pandemic commenced, Black and Latino Californians have lost considerable ground on home ownership rates relative to whites.

Housing policies must be designed to explicitly address racial inequities driving these outcomes and move us toward a housing system that repairs past harms and uplifts marginalized people.

Government leaders are stepping up to the challenge and have enacted some new budget commitments, policies and programs to provide affordable homes and supportive services to more Californians. These actions should be celebrated, but they are not enough. It is time for our leaders to double down on their commitments and adopt bold solutions that match the scale of the problem.

Chione Lucina Munoz Flegal is the executive director of Housing California , a statewide advocacy organization based in Sacramento. Chris Iglesias is the CEO of The Unity Council , a non-profit social equity development corporation with over 50 years of history in Oakland. The authors are leading participants in an Institute on Race, Power and Political Economy-supported network of California leaders committed to inclusive economy and governance innovations.
SAN FRANCISCO  A near disaster involving an off-duty pilot who admitted to experimenting with magic mushrooms may doom efforts to decriminalize psychedelics in California.

The alarming incident happened just weeks after Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have legalized possession of mushrooms and some other psychedelics  and has turned an already risky cause into an even riskier proposition for a governor with national ambitions.

The off-duty pilot for Alaska Airlines who tried to cut the engines of the San Francisco-bound flight said he had taken mushrooms and was struggling with depression. Using psychedelics for therapeutic purposes is an idea that has gained ground recently and was the chief argument for decriminalization in California.

But Newsom said the state isnt ready and vetoed the bill, angering progressive allies who have been working on new legislation since the rejection. Those efforts now face much stronger headwinds following the averted catastrophe.

This sets back the conversation about legalizing psychedelics in the state of California, said Brian Marvel, president of the Peace Officers Research Association of California, an 80,000-member law enforcement organization that opposed the bill. Do you really want people that are tripping on mushrooms driving cars?

The fate of legalized psychedelics faces challenges similar to other progressive reaches such as limiting solitary confinement in prisons or halting minor traffic stops  each providing ample opportunities for critics to highlight potentially dangerous consequences. What happened on the Alaska Airlines flight shows how headline-grabbing incidents can complicate landmark legislation. It also reinforces Newsoms keen political instincts to kill the bill.

The governor was cautious, said Tim Rosales, a Republican political consultant who campaigned against cannabis legalization. Folks in the governors office are probably breathing a sigh of relief."

Newsoms office declined to comment on the pilot incident. The governor wrote in his veto message that he killed the mushroom measure, Senate Bill 58, because it didnt set enough treatment guardrails around dosing and underlying psychoses.

Unfortunately, this bill would decriminalize possession prior to these guidelines going into place, and I cannot sign it, he said.

Newsom asked lawmakers to send him a bill next year with therapeutic guidelines  signaling the governor is more interested in medicinal use than decriminalization. He has conceded that research has shown psychedelics can be effective in treating PTSD, depression and other mental illnesses.



Supporters of the bill have vowed to revive the fight, either through new legislation next year or a longshot November 2024 ballot measure to legalize mushrooms.

State Sen. Scott Wiener, a Democrat from San Francisco who wrote the bill, said that, despite the Alaska Airlines incident, he plans to introduce a new version of a measure he says would help provide effective treatment to combat veterans and first responders experiencing PTSD.

Anyone can abuse a substance  legal or illegal  and do something horrific, he said. "People overwhelmingly use them safely, without engaging in violence. This situation is an extreme outlier, and this guy should be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

The pilot, Joseph David Emerson of Pleasant Hill, Calif., was off duty when he caught a partner airlines flight from Washington state to San Francisco. He was sitting in a spare seat in the cockpit when authorities say he tried to shut off the engines before the two pilots subdued him.

The plane made an emergency landing in Portland, where he was arrested and charged with 83 counts of attempted murder  one for every passenger.

Some details of the incident remain unclear. Documents filed in state court in Oregon say he took the mushrooms about 48 hours before the flight, but an FBI arrest affidavit is vague about when he last ingested the substance.

Emerson said he was grieving the death of his best friend and had been depressed for about six months, according to the affidavit. He also told the agent that he was having a nervous breakdown at the time of the incident.

Mushrooms typically lose their hallucinogenic effects within six hours, so its unclear if he would have still been impaired if he had taken them 48 hours before the flight, as detailed in the state court documents.

Ryan Munevar, campaign director for the pro-mushroom Decriminalize California, said his group will continue collecting signatures to try to put legalization on the 2024 ballot.

Munevar said Emerson couldnt have been experiencing the effects 48 hours after ingesting the mushrooms and pointed to the fact that there have been other episodes where suspects attempt to use psychedelics to justify violence.

It wouldnt have an impact on him the next day, let alone 48 hours later, he said.

Marvel, the police association leader, said a major part of his groups objections to the psychedelics bill was uncertainty about the therapeutic science, including a lack of dosing guidelines for people operating airplanes, vehicles and heavy machinery.



He said law enforcement would likely be open to legislation to allow psychedelics for narrow therapeutic uses, provided its well-regulated within the medical system. You can do it in a slow manner in which theres studies, theres science behind it, Marvel said.

Republican Assemblymember Tom Lackey, who voted against the bill, said the Alaska pilot incident underscores the need for more research on the substance.

It's an awakening moment, said Lackey, who was a California Highway Patrol officer for nearly 30 years. "This substance has, sometimes, a delayed impact on people, and we know way too little to be using this as a routine treatment for people."

Wieners bill that made it to Newsoms desk this year was much broader and would have allowed the personal possession of mushrooms, known scientifically as psilocybin, and several other natural hallucinogenic substances.

California would have been the third state to decriminalize psychedelics. In 2020, voters in Oregon approved a measure to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin. Colorado voters followed suit last year, legalizing the substance starting in 2024.
A Jewish family's home in Los Angeles was broken into by a man repeatedly yelling, "Free Palestine," police said.

The Los Angeles Police Department said that they received a call from the homeowners at around 5:30 a.m. saying that someone had broken into their home and that they were hiding in a room with their four children.

A short while later, the frightened homeowners called police for a second time, saying that the male suspect was threatening to kill them because they were Jewish.

The family had mezuzahs, which are pieces of parchment inscribed with Hebrew verse from the Torah, on their doors, police said.

ANTISEMITISM STILL EXISTS AND IS GETTING WORSE IN THE US: NAZI GERMANY SURVIVOR ERWIN GANZ

When the LAPD arrived at the family's home, they arrested a male suspect, who was dressed in just his undergarments at the time of his arrest.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Free Palestine, free Palestine, free Palestine," the suspect was heard repeatedly saying as was being taken into custody.

Officials at the scene believed the suspect may have been under the influence of drugs.

The LAPD did not immediately release the name of the suspect, or if he was charged for breaking into the home.

CHICAGO AREA MAN, WHO THREATENED TO SHOOT MUSLIM MEN, CHARGED WITH HATE CRIMES

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said that hate crime has "no place" in Los Angeles.

"The vile act of hate that took place this morning has no place in our City. In the wake of the terror and violence inflicted over the previous weeks, this is one of the worst fears of Jewish families across our country  hatred spilling across the threshold, destroying the sense of safety and sanctuary in a home," Mayor Bass.

He was dressed in his undergarments at the time of his arrest.

Mayor Bass added that the LAPD will continue to have increased patrols in the city.

"We remain steadfast in support of the Jewish people  the people of Los Angeles will not cower to hate. We will respond to it. The Los Angeles Police Department will continue to conduct increased patrols in communities throughout our City and I call on officials to take action to ensure the person responsible for this heinous act is held fully accountable. We will always stand together."





Original article source: California man breaks into Jewish family's home, threatens to kill them, yells 'Free Palestine'
SACRAMENTO, Calif.  The leader of the influential California Labor Federation rocked Sacramentos political establishment last fall when she suggested a blacklist for consultants who run afoul of unions.

Lorena Gonzalez, a progressive powerhouse who had stepped down as a state lawmaker to head the venerated Labor Federation AFL-CIO, argued consultants cant get paid to bust unions and take on fights against workers and then expect to benefit from members money. And her stance won praise from some allies in labor.

So it was a head-snapping development inside several of the unions when Gonzalez quietly tapped her own longtime political strategist, one-time Willie Brown fixer Richie Ross, to formally consult for the Labor Federation. Ross had helped some of the states biggest corporate employers defeat a generational union-backed push in 2020 to raise property taxes on big businesses, which would have sent billions a year to schools and local governments.

In the weeks and months since he joined the Labor Federation, no fewer than eight high-level people directly connected to the group and broader labor world aired their discomfort and frustration with the arrangement to POLITICO. Several contend Gonzalezs decision to hire Ross smacked of hypocrisy, arguing his past work makes him a poster boy for any boycott members had contemplated.

She has put on the Labor Federations payroll a guy who has worked against the Labor Federation  just because she wants him there, said a high-ranking labor official in Sacramento, who was granted anonymity to discuss a sensitive topic. And shes doing this as shes vilifying everybody else in town about their lack of purity.

Gonzalez said in an interview that the Labor Federation has a formal process for placing consultants on its so-called Do Not Patronize list. If any of the unions want to put Ross on the list, she said, they can propose to do so.



No one has done so, Gonzalez added. She declined further comment.

Ross offered a three-word quote, in Spanish, to express how little the backlash mattered to him.

No me importa, he said.

Anxiety over Ross hire represents an exceedingly rare public eruption among Californias guarded labor unions. Disputes over personnel and strategy are often closely held, and several union leaders and advisers described their decision to speak out as a last resort to convey their exasperation  albeit mostly anonymously. Their moves also hint at broader tensions among leadership, and with Gonzalez, as unions collectively flex their political muscle amid another banner year in Californias Democratic-controlled statehouse.

Balding and bespectacled, Ross is the quintessential Sacramento throwback, patrolling the marble halls of the Capitol to coax, cajole and outright bully staffers and lawmakers alike into supporting his favored bills. With his unusual dual roles as lobbyist and political consultant, sometimes the legislators he is trying to influence are his own clients.

His deep institutional knowledge has yielded results for labor clients, like winning health care coverage for members of the United Farm Workers. Among his other union ties are the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, AFSCME, UNITE HERE, California Nurses, and several union-oriented lawmakers.

But hes also helped lead campaigns that were on the opposite side of labors biggest and most expensive priorities. And his firm has lobbied against legislation supported by unions.

Ross has spent decades working on behalf of the oil industry  a divisive force in labor regarded by certain trade unions and more conservative members as a crucial partner in creating jobs but viewed by progressives and some public sector workers as out of step with their values. In 2020, the year Ross worked on the successful campaign to fight commercial real estate tax hikes in Proposition 15, he also helped to block an initiative to end cash bail, another union priority.

In both cases, Ross was taking on two labor powerhouses: Service Employees International Union and the California Teachers Association. CTAs Issues PAC and SEIU State Council spent a combined $25.3 million in support of Proposition 15, which received another roughly $5.3 million from SEIU Local 2015 and SEIU 1021. The measure also was backed by AFSCME, UNITE HERE and the California Federation of Teachers.

CFT has been on the opposite [side] of Richies firm a few times on some very primary issues of CFTs  teacher due process and Prop. 15, Jeffery Freitas, president of the California Federation of Teachers, said in an interview.

Under my leadership, Freitas added, CFT will never hire Richie Ross.

SEIU spent another $500,000 on the failed bail reform effort.

Another top leader in the Labor Federation summed up Ross involvement in the organization as akin to inviting a stranger with mixed financial motives to a seat at the table.

Richie has experience and knows the business. He has great relationships. He's smart. He's strategic. He's thoughtful. So he's not a bad person to have on your team, the labor leader said. But you can't trust somebody on your team if they're also playing with the other side.



Concerns over Ross coming aboard the Labor Federation had been bubbling up for months earlier this year. On June 9, the secretary of states filings first listed him as a lobbyist to the sprawling labor organization where Gonzalez is executive secretary-treasurer. Filings through June 30, the latest available, show Ross was paid $2,000 for the three-week period.

By the time Ross officially came on board, Gonzalez had already publicly put Democratic consultants on notice: Work for companies that run counter to organized labors goals could land them on a union blacklist. That she was reviewing procedures to kickstart the process as head of the influential labor organization made up of some 1,300 unions and millions of members across manufacturing, retail, construction, health care and other industries grabbed the attention of Sacramento insiders.

Recent chatter about a union blacklist reached a fever pitch after Gonzalez came into her new role in 2022. Gonzalez reiterated her point when her organization defended Assembly candidate and Alameda labor leader Liz Ortega-Toro against campaign tactics by housing industry groups. Strong women of color are too often the targets of this type of ugly politics, Gonzalez said at the time.

The Labor Federation news release added that those who violate the basic values upheld by the labor movement will be held accountable by any means necessary, including being placed on a Do Not Patronize list.

You cant get paid to union bust or take on fights against workers and ALL of labor & expect to turn around and benefit from our members money, Gonzalez wrote on social media weeks earlier. Despite the warning, the federation has not formally blacklisted anyone under her leadership and has received no formal proposals to do so.

Do not hire lists sit squarely at the intersection where ideological fissures and the lucrative business of politics collide. After a string of upstarts ousted congressional incumbents in the 2018 cycle, the House Democrats campaign arm refused to work with any vendor that had contracted with the challengers. The committee backed away from its policy after less than two years amid backlash from the partys progressive wing.

Similar blacklists have cropped up sporadically in California. In one widely-publicized 2013 spat, the Labor Federation announced it was placing six consultants on a Do Not Hire list for their work for two Democrats who successfully beat Assembly incumbents from their party. Among them was now-state Sen. Steve Glazer, who managed former Gov. Jerry Browns 2010 campaign and worked the following cycle with the Chamber of Commerce.

That blacklist, along with others enforced during recent state campaigns, ultimately fizzled out, as consultants petitioned to get back into labors good graces, or at least out of its proverbial doghouse. Still, the tactic has been a well-worn tool to send a message for those who deviate from the party line.

Glazer said the practice of compiling such lists is a form of righteousness.



Weve seen a demand for purity rip apart the Republicans in Congress and we continue to see it with those that underpin the Democrats supermajority in California, Glazer said. Any movement that excludes people who dont always agree with them risks losing the broad support they need to succeed. 

Gonzalez has been quick to register disgust when members of her party take on clients she feels undermine the workers cause. When the American Prospect magazine reported in August that Minyon Moore, chair of the Democratic National Convention, is a principal at a firm that did work for labor nemeses such as Lyft and Tenet Healthcare, Gonzalez reposted the article on X, formerly known as Twitter.

This is gross, she wrote.

Her post was later deleted, but not before it caught the eye of some California Democrats. Moore is one of the most influential Black women in the party, and it did not sit well with some observers that Gonzalez was swiping at a woman of color for the provenance of her paycheck  particularly when Ross, her political consultant, didnt engender the same public disapproval.

A third labor official focused on the Moore tweet, saying it gave the appearance that, If youre a white guy, the same criticisms dont apply than if youre a person of color, the official said. And that was the dangerous part about putting that message out there.

To Gonzalezs detractors, the tweet about Moore put an exclamation point on the months of simmering discontent about her hiring of Ross.

CORRECTION: Due to a production error, an earlier version of this story used a photo of another person named Lorena Gonzalez, not the one mentioned in this story.
MAGA Mike'' won. Which means, alas, so did Rep. Matt Gaetz .

For Gaetz, the smarmy Trump Mini-Me from Florida, and his fellow Republican nihilists  the ones Rep. Kevin McCarthy dubbed the Crazy 8s after they forced his firing as House speaker three weeks ago and left Congress in chaos  the Houses surprise election of right-wing Rep. Mike Johnson, a formerly obscure Louisianan (despite his big role working to overturn Donald Trumps defeat), amounted to sweet, sweet vindication.

Here was Gaetz, chortling on like-minded Steve Bannons War Room podcast Wednesday morning, in anticipation of Johnsons election: If you don't think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement and where the power in the Republican Party truly lies, then you're not paying attention.

Gaetz isnt wrong about that.

McCarthy in his nine-month reign mostly pandered to the nuts, culture warriors and election deniers in his House Republican majority, ever fearful of the coup that finally came after he twice digressed from the extremist path to actually govern  compromising with the Senate and White House first to avoid a debt default and then a government shutdown. But to the right-wingers, the shape-shifting McCarthy was always a poser. (Again, they werent wrong.)

At times over the last 22 days, as Republicans proved too riven to pick a new leader, Gaetz and his far-right cohorts had reason to worry that their coup would result in little change at best, and, at worst, that it might backfire.

The House rejected the rights favorite to replace McCarthy, Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan. Two other Republican nominees, Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana and Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota, were in the McCarthy mold; their candidacies fizzled for lack of support (and, in Emmers case, from former President Trumps drive-by shooting). The humiliating impasse gave rise to talk of some bipartisan arrangement to run the House  MAGAs worst nightmare.

Gaetz could probably hear what his House Republican enemies, and there are many, would say: Are you happy now?

He is of course very happy now that an exhausted and utterly embarrassed Republican caucus united to choose Johnson, only in his fourth House term, to be speaker and second in line to the presidency. Gaetz and Johnson differ big-time in style: Gaetz is in-your-face, Johnson so amiable and nonconfrontational that he is friend to many and an enemy to none, as Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York told the House in nominating Johnson. Hence his unlikely elevation.

Read more: House Republicans unite, finally, to elect hard-right colleague Mike Johnson as speaker

But in substance, Johnson is little different from Gaetz and his ilk. Johnson has described his relationship with Jordan, mentor to the far right, as like Batman and Robin. But Johnsons politics are more infused with the conservative religiosity he demonstrated in his remarks accepting the speakership. He told the House of his absent wife, Shes spent the last couple of weeks on her knees in prayer to the Lord. And, um, shes a little worn out.

Johnsons opposition to abortion  he favors a national ban  and to same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights and protections is well documented in his pre-Congress work as an attorney for the socially conservative Alliance Defending Freedom. After the Dobbs decision overturned the constitutional right to an abortion, Johnson suggested that now women would produce more able-bodied workers, whose payroll tax contributions would help save Medicare and Social Security.

Read more: Editorial: House Republicans just elected an election denier as speaker. American democracy is in trouble

CNN reported on editorials Johnson wrote in his hometown Shreveport, La., paper, in which he called homosexuality inherently unnatural and a dangerous lifestyle that ultimately could end the entire democratic system. He claimed in 2004, Experts project that homosexual marriage is the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy that could doom even the strongest republic.

Then theres his behind-the-scenes legal work after the 2020 presidential election to challenge electoral votes in pro-Biden states. The New York Times, after an investigation of Republicans post-election machinations, called Johnson the most important architect of the Electoral College objections. He enlisted most of his fellow House Republicans in support of a brief to the Supreme Court, yet the justices declined to take the underlying case.

Late Monday night after his nomination as speaker, Johnson joined other Republicans surrounding him in laughing at a reporter whod had the temerity to ask about his effort to overturn the 2020 election results. At his side, Rep. Virginia Foxx of North Carolina yelled Shut up! Shut up! Johnson, ever smiling, turned to another reporter for a question.

Read more: News Analysis: The House Republican civil war shows Trump's power  and its limits

He is indeed the "smiling seditionist," as longtime Republican strategist Mike Murphy posted on X. But hes got plenty of company in the House he now leads. In the runup to the House vote on Johnson, Democratic Rep. Pete Aguilar of California noted Johnson's role in trying to overturn a free and fair election. A Republican yelled out, Damn right!

So, yes, Gaetz is celebrating; his dethroning of McCarthy led to the seating of a fellow MAGAt. But Democrats are feeling celebratory, too.

In the 2022 midterm elections, two issues  abortion rights and democracy protection  mobilized many voters to elect more Democrats and far fewer Republicans than both parties expected. Democrats are counting on the same issues to work for them in 2024.

And with Johnson on the wrong side of both as far as most Americans are concerned, look for Democrats to make MAGA Mike an albatross around House Republicans in swing districts. As one called out to a vulnerable Republican after he voted for Johnson, Bye-bye!

@jackiekcalmes

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Before a fashion show at the SLS South Beach last July as part of Miami Swim Week, Michael Gongora took to the stage to present the events organizers with an official proclamation from the city of Miami Beach.

A speaker introduced Gongora as the former vice mayor and future mayor of Miami Beach, then handed him the microphone, according to a clip posted on social media. On behalf of the city of Miami Beach, we are excited to welcome you back to the SLS for this great show, Gongora told the crowd.

Gongora, a former city commissioner, was a candidate for Miami Beach mayor at the time and had been out of office since late 2021. The proclamation he presented was signed by Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, a current commissioner and Gongoras closest ally, and by Dan Gelber, the outgoing mayor and a political rival of Rosen Gonzalez who approves all city proclamations.

In a post on Facebook, Gongora said he had presented the proclamation on Rosen Gonzalezs behalf.

On at least five occasions since Gongora left office and filed to run for mayor in the Nov. 7 election, he has presented city proclamations on behalf of Rosen Gonzalez or, in one case, Commissioner Alex Fernandez, according to Gongoras posts on social media. Fernandez raised concerns about the practice at the time, saying he hadnt authorized Gongora to present on his behalf.

Commissioners regularly have city staff draft proclamations for them to sign, then bring them to Gelber for his approval. Gelber returns them to the commissioners to give to their intended recipients.

READ MORE: Miami Beach will elect a new mayor. What you should know about the four candidates

The practice has underscored Gongoras reliance on support from Rosen Gonzalez on the campaign trail  and has led to ethical questions. Rosen Gonzalez is a powerful political force in the city but has also been a lightning rod for controversy during her time in office.

An appearance of impropriety

When Gelber  who is term-limited after the upcoming election and has not endorsed a successor  learned last month that Rosen Gonzalez was having Gongora present proclamations Gelber had signed, he decided to step in.

Gelber asked the executive director of the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, Jose Arrojo, to weigh in on whether the practice is allowed under the county ethics code and state law, both of which prohibit the use of city resources for campaign purposes.

I thought it might be problematic for the city to be creating proclamations that are being used by a candidate, Gelber said. I wouldnt want someone to think I was endorsing someone, especially when I wasnt.

In a Sept. 26 email to Gelber, Arrojo recommended that the city ban the practice going forward.

At a very minimum, this practice creates an appearance of impropriety, Arrojo wrote. Of course, the bright line rule is that municipal resources may never be used to support or oppose a candidacy.

Arrojo said Thursday that he couldnt disclose whether the ethics commission is investigating further.

A proclamation by Miami Beach Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez and Mayor Dan Gelber honored Brigitte Grosjean for her daily sunrise photographs of the city. Social media posts show mayoral candidate Michael Gongora presented the proclamation to Grosjean on Rosen Gonzalezs behalf.

Asked about the issue this week, Gongora said he doesnt recall ever presenting a proclamation on Rosen Gonzalezs behalf.

Because the city has no rules in place about who can give proclamations, Gongora said, it seems like a non-story to me.

Im always happy to assist the city of Miami Beach, and any commissioner, in any way that I can, Gongora said in a statement. Im proud that our city has so many residents and businesses deserving of recognition for the good work they do.

Rosen Gonzalez called it a non-issue in a text message to the Herald.

Fernandez, meanwhile, called questions about the practice trivial and a cheap shot against Gongoras campaign. I dont think presenting a proclamation advances any campaign, he said. In the grand scheme of things happening, its really not a big deal.

Still, Fernandez expressed reservations about the practice this past March after Gongora presented a proclamation on his behalf for a residents 70th birthday party. Fernandez told the Herald he was unable to attend the event himself, but that he never asked Gongora to present the proclamation for him.

Its OK but I just get concerned since hes a candidate, Fernandez said in a text message to his legislative aide at the time. I wish they wouldve had a commissioner present it.

Michael Gongora presents a proclamation on behalf of Commissioner Alex Fernandez at Fat Ronnies Burger Bar in Miami Beach in March 2023.

This isnt the first time Gongora has faced questions related to proclamations.

In 2020, the general manager of the Fillmore theater accused Gongora, then a city commissioner, of mentioning the theaters ongoing contract negotiations with the city after Gongora was instructed to pay for a ticket to see the band New Order and present a proclamation to the group.

Gongora denied bringing up the negotiations and said he paid for his own ticket, but the ethics commission later found probable cause that he had failed to properly disclose free entry to the show for a friend.

Close ties to Rosen Gonzalez

Gongora has pitched himself to voters as the most experienced candidate at the local level, having been elected to the commission three separate times since 2006.

He has garnered support from Rosen Gonzalez, Fernandez and Laura Dominguez, the three sitting commissioners who will remain in office beyond November.

Rosen Gonzalez has spearheaded opposition to various Gelber initiatives such as a ballot measure to redevelop the Deauville Beach Resort property that voters rejected last year. The upcoming election could potentially deliver a majority on the commission to Gongora, Rosen Gonzalez and their allies.

But Rosen Gonzalez also carries political baggage. Since 2021, she has made headlines for falsely claiming to be Hispanic, for comparing Gelber to Russian President Vladimir Putin, and for expressing support for polarizing state representative candidate Fabian Basabe.

Gongoras ties to Rosen Gonzalez have been a target for opponents. In February, mayoral candidate Mike Grieco released audio he secretly recorded of Gongora saying he and Rosen Gonzalez had met with developer Russell Galbut, and that Galbut said he was with me and giving me money. Miami Beach prohibits developers from contributing to campaigns.

In the recording, Gongora referred to Rosen Gonzalez as his political wife.

After Griecos political committee released a recent attack ad using the audio, Rosen Gonzalez responded in an email saying she and Gongora had met with Galbut over hummus and falafel but didnt talk about money.

Galbut likes Michael Gongora, just like I like him, because he is the nicest and most fair of all the candidates, she said.

This is unbecoming of a mature person

Arrojos message to Gelber about the use of proclamations by candidates has ignited the latest in a long line of spats between the mayor and Rosen Gonzalez.

In a Sept. 30 email to Rosen Gonzalez, Gelber said he learned she had barged into the office of his chief of staff, Michele Burger, and accused her of flagging the proclamation concerns to Arrojo. Gelber said Burger had nothing to do with it.

Ironically, it was entirely your poor judgment, though, that caused the memo to be even necessary, he wrote.

In response, Rosen Gonzalez said she had lost all respect for Gelber.

How old are you? This is unbecoming of a mature person, a mayor, she wrote, adding that she had told Burger the day she and you leave office will be a wonderful and sunny day for Miami Beach.
Kyle Whalen, a Republican small business owner, will face Democrat newcomer Adrielle Camuel in the special election to replace Rep. Lamin Swann, who died unexpectedly earlier this year.

Whalen ran for the seat and lost to Swann by eight percentage points in 2022. House District 93 includes the south side of Fayette County and is a newly formed House district. It is considered a Democratic strong hold, with President Joe Biden winning the area by about 17 points over former President Donald Trump .

Camuel, who is an administrative specialist with Fayette County Public Schools, is a political newcomer but has been involved with the Democratic party for several years.

Whalen, of Back Construction, and Camuel were selected by their respective parties to run in the special election to fill Swanns unexpired term this summer. Camuel was picked by the party over Emma Curtis among other potential nominees. If Curtis had been picked, she would have been the first openly transgender nominee for the state House.

Whalen has a slight fundraising lead over Camuel.

As of Oct. 25, Camuel has raised $62,726, according to Kentucky Registry of Election Finance reports. Camuel has received $4,500 in political action committee contributions including $1,000 from the the Kentucky Womens Network Inc., $1,000 Insulators International PAC and $500 from the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers PAC. She received $5,000 from the House Democratic Caucus PAC.

Whalen has raised $68,244. Whalen has received $13,900 from PACs, including $1,000 from the Kentucky Realtors Pac, $1,000 from the Housing Industry Association PAC, $500 from the Home Builders Association of Kentucky and $2,100 from the Kentucky Chamber PAC. Hes also received more than $5,000 in donations from campaign funds from Republican house members and a $5,000 donation from the House Republican Caucus PAC.

The Lexington Herald-Leader asked the candidates questions about some of the states most pressing issues. Each candidate had 200 words to answer questions about teachers, transgender rights, abortion and why they wanted to run for the position.

Do you support teacher pay raises? If so, how would you pay for them?

Camuel: Yes, I strongly support fair and competitive pay for teachers in Kentucky because public education is the cornerstone to any thriving society. Educators shape our future generations and deserve to be compensated appropriately. They are the first step in workforce development. Already many excellent teachers are looking elsewhere for higher salaries, more supportive career paths, or leaving the profession altogether. To fund teacher pay raises, we should take a multifaceted approach, such as budget reallocations, generation of new revenue, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Whalen: I believe that our hardworking teachers deserve a raise and I think there are sufficient resources in the rainy-day fund to cover them. It is the right way to attract dedicated professionals into the classrooms to help ignite a love of learning in our children. However, when only half of Kentuckys kids are able to read at grade level and even fewer can do math, I believe our public school system is in need of a total review to get back to basics. I will work across the aisle to ensure that our education system is focused on helping every student succeed.

How would you use this seat to benefit Fayette County residents? Is there a particular issue specific to Fayette County you would like to tackle?

Camuel: Having someone in the legislature who will vocalize the needs of Fayette County is critical. I will speak out on behalf of residents and work to find solutions that will benefit all. For instance, it is crucial to address the issue of high rent prices and lack of affordable housing in Fayette County and other urban areas. Housing and rent prices are so high it is difficult for teachers and first responders to live in the communities they serve. People in Lexington are struggling with housing, and its impacting both lower income earners and the ever-shrinking middle class.

Whalen: Violent crime and drugs are a growing threat to the safety of our citizens. The first responsibility of Government is to keep our citizens safe. If I am elected to serve, I will work hard in Frankfort to ensure our law enforcement has the tools and resources to protect our community.

How would you have voted on Senate Bill 150, which bans gender-affirming puberty blockers, hormones and surgery for minors?

Camuel: I would have strongly opposed SB 150 as a legislator and I strongly opposed Senate Bill 150 as a private citizen. I oppose surgery for minors, but believe that reversible options, such as hormone therapy, should remain a decision between families and their physicians. I am committed to filing or co-sponsoring legislation to repeal SB 150.

Whalen: Senate Bill 150 is not the bill I would have written, but I would support measures that would protect our minor children from irreparable harm of sex change operations. We should lower the temperature on the conversation and remember the responsibility we all have to protect Kentuckys children.

What is your stance on abortion?

Camuel: I am 100% pro-choice. I believe that everyone is entitled to make choices about their body and healthcare. Government shouldnt stand between doctors and their patients. The legislation passed by the Republican supermajority in Frankfort targeting reproductive healthcare and abortion access constitutes an attack on freedom, bodily autonomy, and the fundamental right to privacy.

Whalen: I am pro-life. I believe that our law should include the common sense exceptions for rape, incest, and the life and health of the mother. At the same time, we should expand the services for moms and families to help them raise their children in a loving and caring home right here in Kentucky. We can be pro-life, pro-family and show compassion at the same time.

Why do you want to run for this position?

Camuel: Im committed to making our Commonwealth a better place to live for all Kentuckians. Its that commitment which led me to be a first-time candidate running for public office. As a mom, a public employee and someone squeezed between children and aging parents, I understand many of the issues that voters in the 93rd face. Over the years Ive lived in the 93rd, people repeatedly voice concern about: supporting public education, access to reproductive healthcare and elder care for seniors, implementing common sense gun safety, balancing the needs of small businesses and new industries, making sure every Kentuckian has the right to live a fulfilling and dignified life. These will be my top priorities in Frankfort.

Whalen: I have been blessed in my career as a small business owner and active in my community. I always approach this with the attitude of service. I want to continue my service but in a different way. I want to serve the citizens of the 93rd district as their voice in Frankfort.
(KTLA)  Officials with the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area in Malibu, California, said Solstice Canyon was temporarily closed after a young mountain lion tried to attack a small, leashed dog walking with its owner.

The encounter, according to officials, happened Tuesday morning. While intervening to protect his dog, the hiker suffered a puncture wound and a scratch on his hand. The dog was uninjured.

A scratch basically, just minor injuries, Seth Riley, the wildlife branch chief for the U.S. National Park Service, told LAist. He was able to grab the dog and keep the lion from capturing it.

Bear caught on camera ringing doorbell

National Park Service rangers provided the hiker with first aid on the scene.

Out of an abundance of caution and because a second young mountain lion was spotted in the immediate area, officials closed the park until 8 a.m. Thursday while wildlife biologists examined the area and assessed the situation.

Mountain lions are unpredictable, wild animals, officials said. While conflicts with humans are rare, there is always a risk when recreating in areas used by mountain lions.

If you encounter a mountain lion, experts recommend that you:

Make yourself appear as large and intimidating as possible by yelling, waving your arms and even throwing objects in the direction of the animal.

Slowly back away and allow space for the big cats to move away.

Do not turn your back and run.

The National Park Service requires pets to be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.

More information on avoiding encounters and coexisting with mountain lions can be found here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Captain Jerry Boylan did everything he could to save 34 people who died in a horrific boat fire, and prosecutors charging him with neglect have the wrong man, defense attorneys told a jury in federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

Meanwhile prosecutors told jurors that Boylan could have prevented the deaths on the boat  named the Conception  had he followed clear Coast Guard rules requiring him to keep a night patrol to prevent such disasters and to train his crew on how to respond to a fire. Boylan was also the first person to jump ship and didn't do enough to try to fight the fire, they argued.

The opening statements marked the second day of Boylan's two-week trial in what family members of the victims view as a long overdue step toward accountability four years after their loved died on the Conception in waters off Santa Barbara.

"No one has been held accountable for the deaths of 34 people," said Kathleen McIlvain, whose 44-year-old son Charles was among those killed. "There were very strict safety standards that were not followed and that's why 34 people perished."

Here's what you need to know about the trial:

Firefighters respond to a fire aboard the Conception dive boat fire in the Santa Barbara Channel off the coast of Southern California on Sept. 2, 2019. The fire killed 34 people and the trial against Conception Capt. Jerry Boylan began in federal court in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

Conception fire: Why 34 people killed in California boat fire won't be called 'victims' in captain's trial

Why prosecutors say Jerry Boylan is guilty of neglect

Prosecutors blamed Boylan's actions leading up to and during the blaze that killed one of his crew members and all 33 of his passengers, who were different groups of families and friends on a scuba-diving holiday. They ranged in age from 16 to 62, and included a hair dresser, a Hollywood visual-effects designer, an Apple executive, and two teenage girls who did everything together.

Boylan failed his duties as captain by not assigning a crew member to patrol the boat at night while everyone else slept, prosecutors said. He also failed to train his largely inexperienced crew on how to respond to a fire or even show them where the firefighting equipment on the boat was.

Conception Captain Jerry Boylan, right, arrives in federal court in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. The trial against Boylan began Tuesday, with jury selection four years after a fire on the Conception killed 34 people. Boylan has pleaded not guilty to one count of misconduct or neglect of a ship officer.

The equipment included two "fire stations" that had 50-foot hoses that can pump an unlimited amount of seawater on a blaze, they said.

"Soon after he woke up during the fire, defendant jumped overboard into the ocean. He was the first person to jump off that boat," said lead prosecutor Matthew O'Brien. "Defendant also instructed his crew members to jump overboard rather than fight the fire ... The 34 people who were killed didn't have a chance to jump overboard."

O'Brien said that just before jumping ship, Boylan used precious seconds to call the Coast Guard rather than trying to fight flames when he knew help was more than an hour away given the boat's remote location near Santa Cruz Island.

He said the FBI recovered a 24-second video from phone found in a dead passenger's coat pocket at the bottom of the ocean. The video shows the increasingly distressed passengers trapped below deck, with fire blocking both a staircase and an escape hatch.

The burned hull of the dive boat Conception is brought to the surface by a salvage team off Santa Cruz Island, California, on Sept. 12, 2019. The trial against Conception Capt. Jerry Boylan began in federal court in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

"The 34 people below deck were reacting to the smoke filling the dark, cramped bunkroom," O'Brien told jurors as victim family members cried and tried to comfort each other. "Some of them were putting on shoes to try to escape. One of them used a fire extinguisher to try to fight the fire. And some of them huddled together low to the floor where there was less smoke."

He added that "they were starting to panic."

"Passengers didn't know it but their captain had already jumped overboard," he said. "The video was the last time any of them would be seen alive."

The video was taken at 3:17 a.m. while Boylan's distress call to the Coast Guard was at 3:14 a.m., O'Brien said. The coast guard arrived around 4:30 a.m.

Experts: Titan submersible tragedy could lead to lawsuits and regulatory changes

What are Jerry Boylan's defense attorneys arguing?

Conception Captain Jerry Boylan arrives in federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Federal prosecutors are seeking justice for 34 people killed in a fire aboard a scuba dive boat called the Conception in 2019. The trial against Boylan began Tuesday with jury selection. Boylan has pleaded not guilty to one count of misconduct or neglect of a ship officer.

Boylan's defense attorneys painted a different picture for jurors. They acknowledge that Boylan did jump off the ship but said that's because flames were 15-feet high and the wheelhouse where he was calling the Coast Guard from became overrun with smoke.

Only after he jumped off the ship did Boylan realize the magnitude of the disaster, defense attorney Georgina Wakefield said.

"Jerry resurfaces from the ocean and he cries, 'Oh my God, all those people,'" she told jurors. "For the first time he can see what is happening on the main deck, that this entire structure is engulfed in flames. There is no way in and there is no way out."

That's when Wakefield said Boylan told the crew members on deck to jump. Soon after she said that Boylan, his second captain and a deckhand re-boarded the boat in the back but that all the fire equipment was inaccessible because of the flames.

Members of the FBI Evidence Response Team bring material ashore at Santa Barbara Harbor on Sept. 3, 2019 in Santa Barbara, California.

None of them were wearing any protective gear, some were even shoeless and shirtless, equipment on the boat was about to blow, and two crew members were in the water, including one who had a broken leg, she said.

"And so they make heart-wrenching decision to get into the life raft at the back to the boat to rescue the two crew members in the ocean and to hope that somehow, somewhere, some way, people made it out alive," Wakefield said.

As for the lack of a night patrol or crew training about what to do in a fire, she said Boylan ran the ship in the way that boat owner Glen Fritzler had taught him: instead of a roving patrol, one crew member would sleep below deck, and no time or money was dedicated to training, she said.

Kathleen McIlvain, the mother of a man killed in a boat fire that killed 34 people off the Santa Barbara coast in 2019, holds up a picture showing the victims of the disaster on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, outside federal court in Los Angeles.

Fritzler did not return a message for comment left by USA TODAY at his Santa Barbara home.

"Jerry didn't want any of this to happen," Wakefield said. "He cared about the people who lost their lives. One of the people in the bunk room was Kristy Finstad, someone he had known since she was a little girl. He did not want her to die. He didn't want anyone to die."

Family members of the Conception fire weigh in

A family picture of Alexandra "Allie" Kurtz, the 26-year-old crew member, galley cook and victim of the Sept. 2, 2019 fire aboard the dive boat, Conception, at Santa Cruz Island, is held by a family member arriving at federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Federal prosecutors are seeking justice for 34 people killed in a fire aboard a scuba dive boat called the Conception in 2019. The trial against Capt. Jerry Boylan began Tuesday with jury selection.

Following closing statements, prosecutors began questioning their first witness, the case's lead investigator with the FBI, and played a series of videos showing the Conception in tact.

One of the videos showed Allie Kurtz, a 26-year-old crew member who died alongside the 33 passengers. In the video, she cheerfully models a life vest. Moments after it played, her father shook with sobs in the courtroom as other victim family members consoled him.

"We're here to stand up for our family members," said Maggie Strom, who traveled from Memphis, Tennessee, to be in court for her husband Ted, who was among the victims of the fire. "We'll just hope for some justice and that he gets held accountable for the laws that he broke."

Family members of three victims of the Conception fire that killed 34 people are pictured outside federal court in Los Angeles on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. They are (from left to right) James Adamic, brother of victim Diana Adamic, who was killed on the boat along with her husband, Steve Salika, and their daughter, Tia Salika; Maggie Strom, wife of victim Ted Strom, 62; and Clark and Kathleen McIlvain, whose 44-year-old son Charles McIlvain also was a victim.

Amanda Lee Myers is a trending reporter and editor with USA TODAY. She covers news and human interest stories.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Conception boat captain Jerry Boylan faces neglect trial in 34 deaths
Crews have recovered a vehicle from the Mississippi River that belonged to a man who has been missing for 33 years.

The submerged vehicle was found and pulled from the Mississippi River on Oct. 12, according to a news release from the Dubuque Police Department. Investigators were able to identify the car's owner as Paul Joseph Knockel, who was reported missing from Dubuque on Nov. 26, 1990.

Knockel, 53 at the time of his disappearance, has not been found and no human remains were located in the car, the news release said.

Paul Joseph Knockel was reported missing to the Dubuque Police Department on Nov. 26, 1990.

Knockel's family last heard from him on Nov. 12, 1990, and his car was last seen a day later parked along U.S. Route 151 less than one mile east of the Dubuque-Wisconsin bridge, according to the Iowa Cold Cases website.

The 1981 Mercury Zephyr was found near the Hawthorne Boat Ramp in Dubuque. Newt Marine Services discovered it as it was dredging the river.

Police ask anyone with information about the case to contact Investigator Corporal Clark Egdorf at (563) 589-4430 or cegdorf@cityofdubuque.org.

Anonymous tips can but submitted to the Dubuque Police Department or by calling the Dubuque/Jo Daviess Crime Stoppers at (800) 747-0117.

Kyle Werner is an intern at the Register. Reach him at kwerner@dmreg.com.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa missing persons case from 1990 revived after car found in river
VENICE, Fla. - On Thursday, Dr. Sally Smith testified for the defense in a $220 million case against Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital that was the premise for the Netflix documentary Take Care of Maya.

Dr. Smith worked for All Childrens Hospital, before it was acquired by Johns Hopkins, for 12 years and also worked with the Child Protection Team in Pinellas County. She noted that the Department of Children and Families does not run the Child Protection Team, but it does ask the team to help with child abuse and neglect allegations and to evaluate if a childs safety is at risk.

Dr. Smith explained in fall of 2016 she was the medical director for the Child Protection Team and though she did not work for the hospital, she did have medical staff privileges at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital and served as a community representative on several committees at the facility.

She said she became involved in Mayas case because she received a call from Dr. Beatriz Teppa-Sanchez, who was concerned about a possible case of Munchausen syndrome by proxy. That was two days after Maya Kowalski came into the hospital.

"I got that referral where the Child Protection Team was asked to do a medical evaluation," she remembered.

During her testimony, Dr. Teppa-Sanchez said Maya was brought to Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in October 2016 for a flare up of pain and noted there was a chaotic scene when Maya and her mother Beata Kowalski were in the pediatric intensive care unit.

She stated she believed Maya was in pain, but nobody could pinpoint the source of the pain.

Pictured: Beata and Maya Kowalski

Dr. Teppa Sanchez also noted that both Maya and her mother kept demanding ketamine to ease pain from Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, or CRPS, a condition diagnosed by a doctor not affiliated with Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital. That same doctor prescribed the ketamine treatments.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya: Familys $200 million lawsuit against All Childrens Hospital goes to court



Dr. Teppa Sanchez said the amount of ketamine Maya was receiving alarmed staff as did comments Beata Kowalski made about being stressed out and wanting to die and go to heaven. The doctor also told jurors that Beata told her Maya wanted to go to heaven as well when she was in pain. The physician said she told Beata Kowalski about resources available to help her and Maya, but Beata Kowalski declined the help.

Dr. Smith said she had no knowledge of Maya before Dr. Teppa Sanchez reached out to her. Dr. Smith added that she was called upon because over 32 years she had been known to hospital staff as a child abuse expert.

Dr. Smith said she tried to give general advice in terms of how pediatricians can approach potential cases of Munchausen syndrome by proxy, or what she refers to as medical child abuse. She explained that, in Florida, a social worker, must make a report to a child abuse hotline in order to start an investigation.

Dr. Smith said the call with Dr. Teppa Sanchez was a consultation, and she accessed Maya medical records. However, she did not see Maya at that time. She explained she needed to be asked by investigators to provide a medical evaluation.

Staff at the hospital contacted the Child Abuse Hotline and once she was advised of an investigation, Dr. Smith said she was asked to provide a medial evaluation for Maya on behalf of the Child Protection Team to assist the investors looking into allegations of child abuse.

Pictured: Maya Kowalski

While Dr. Smith said she had no direct role in Maya Kowalskis care in the hospital, the family's attorney Gregory Anderson pushed back. He presented evidence in which he said showed Smith had involvement in certain areas of Mayas care.

"So were you part of the treatment or not?" he asked.

"I guess it's sort of threading the needle I wasn't writing any orders, I didn't tell them which medications to stop or wean or anything like that, but as part of the whole evaluation of medical child abuse there's a component of what happens when they're not getting all these medications so that specific part of it was in my role," replied Dr. Smith.

Why was Maya kept in the hospital?

A judge ordered Maya to be sheltered at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, under state custody, while the child abuse allegations were being investigated. She wasnt allowed to be discharged to her family or another treatment facility and could not see her mother. Beata Kowalski died by suicide after being kept away from her daughter for 87 days.

Now, the Kowalski family is suing Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital for $220 million claiming its actions led Beata Kowalski to take her own life. The Kowalskis say Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital medically kidnapped Maya and battered her while in their care.

The hospital could have settled with the Kowalski family before the case came to a jury. Defense Attorney Ethan Shapiro said they wanted to stand up for the hospital and their staff.

"Theres been a lot of allegations by the plaintiff that are completely unfounded that they have no evidence to support," said Shapiro.

He said allegations against the hospital have had an impact on reporting medical child abuse cases nationwide.

"The reason why All Childrens decided to take this case to trial was, because unfortunately, this case has caused a deep chilling effect in mandatory reporting throughout the country and All Childrens is here standing up for mandatory reporters," he said.

Dr. Smith said Maya was in the pediatric intensive care unit when she examined the girl. Dr. Smith commented that she never wrote an order or progress note in Maya chart, but she did speak with the physicians caring for Maya. She said she saw Maya twice for about 10 minutes each time while she was in the hospital.

Pictured: Maya Kowalski

Dr. Smith said part of her medical examination was a physical exam and Maya declined. Dr. Smith said she is also supposed to provide photo documentation for the investigators and in November 2016, she tried to take pictures of Mayas lower extremities to document the absence of a problem, but she was not able to take the photographs.

Dr. Smith told jurors she took an extensive medical history from Beata Kowalski on October 11, 2016, and had a brief interview with Jack Kowalski on October 13, 2023. She explained she did not speak with the Kowalskis together.

Dr. Smith said two or three child protective investigators, two law enforcement officers were in the room when she interviewed Beata Kowalski on October 11 during a scheduled 90-minute meeting.

Dr. Smith testified that she was not wearing a lab coat when she introduced herself to Beata Kowalski as Dr. Sally Smith with the Child Protection Team. She noted she was wearing her identification badge issued by Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital.

Dr. Sally Smith testifies for the defense.

Two days later, she met with Jack Kowalski for about 1015 minutes. For that meeting, Dr. Smith said the bedside nurse and Maya, who was in the pediatric intensive care unit, were the only other people present for that meeting. She added that she was dressed similarly for this meeting.

At that time, Dr. Smith said she was aware that there was an effort to transfer Maya to an in-patient intensive rehab facility, but she was not involved.

On cross-examination, Dr. Smith noted she resigned from the Child Protection Team in July 2022. She also told jurors that she did ask that Maya be taken off all of her medications, so she could see what happened as part of her investigation. She also added that the treatment team was already weaning her off the medications.

Maya in a hospital bed.

This was the second time the jury heard from Dr. Smith. During the plaintiff's presentation, a video deposition of Dr. Smith was played in the courtroom. In it she stated that she knew that four other physicians had diagnosed Maya with CRPS.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Jury watches Dr. Sally Smith deposition in case against All Childrens Hospital

She said she believed Mayas mother, Beata Kowalski, was committing medical child abuse though she admitted that she had never testified in a case involving CRPS in the past.

Jurors watched a video deposition of Dr. Sally Smith on Thursday.

"Upon review of all the extensive medical records, observations of the child in the hospital, review of the unconventional treatments including hyperbaric oxygen treatment and high dose ketamine treatment repeatedly. It was my opinion that there was ample evidence of medical child abuse and it appeared Mrs. Kowalski was the primary one who was resulting in instigating or perpetrating child abuse," Dr.Smith stated.

Dr. Smith also said she recalled that Dr. Anthony Kirkpatrick, who diagnosed Maya with CRPS and recommended ketamine treatment, advised her not to move forward with allegations that Beata Kowalski was suffering from Munchausen by proxy.

The Kowlaski family reportedly settled their dispute with Dr. Smith and the DCF Suncoast Center.

Pictured: Maya Kowalski and her brother Kyle

What happened to Maya in the hospital?

While on the stand, Maya said, during her three months in state custody at the hospital, there was a 48-hour period where she was isolated in a hospital room. Maya said staff wouldn't help her go to the bathroom and, instead, tried to see if she could actually walk, but she couldn't.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Maya testifies in $220 million case against All Childrens Hospital

"They left me there for 48 hours under surveillance, which they did not tell me about. They had a commode in there, and they just put it far enough away from the bed. So, I would have to physically stand up and use the bathroom," said Maya. "I called the nurses whenever I had to use a bathroom because obviously, I'm not able to walk. And when they refused to help me go to the bathroom, I would defecate on myself."

A video of Marissa Higgins helping Maya try to walk was shown in court on Friday.

She described some nurses as mean and unhelpful, and others as compassionate and willing to help. Her testimony was emotional at times as she expressed her frustration.

"When I express to them a symptom or like my pain, they would say, 'No, you're making it up,' or 'it's in your head,'" Maya said.

When registered nurse Lisa Rek took the stand, she told jurors that Maya was a good patient who seemed to have a positive relationship with the nurses.

She added that the nurses would often braid her hair or do spa days with her when she seemed down.

Rek noted that Maya even nominated one of her nurses for a Daisy Award. A co-worker also nominated Rek was also nominated for a Daisy Award while she was caring for Maya in the hospital.

Maya nominated a nurse for a Daisy Award while she was at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital.

Rek described how she took Mayas clothing home twice.

She did note that she did not ask permission from Mayas parents prior to doing the laundry and said she did it, so Maya wouldnt have to wear a hospital gown.

Rek also explained to the jury that Maya was at a heightened risk for falls after she fell while using the restroom. That's why, according to Rek, Maya's bathroom door and door to her room had to be open a crack while she was in the restroom.

Registered Nurse Lisa Rek was the first witness to testify on Wednesday morning.

Why couldn't Maya's family take her home?

Jack Kowalski, Maya's father, testified that his family was told they would be arrested if they left the facility with Maya.

He went on to describe how the hospital treated those who tried to visit Maya.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Mayas brother testifies in $200 million case against All Childrens Hospital

"Did you learn through the course of this that they believed Beata was slipping ketamine through the holy water and wafers?" the Kowalski's family attorney Greg Anderson asked.

"I know it didnt happen, but they had all different ideas," Jack Kowalski replied.

Anderson argued those theories resulted in Beata Kowalskis desperation and death by suicide.

"I saw my child deteriorating. I go home, I see my wife deteriorating," shared Jack Kowalski while on the witness stand.

PREVIOUS: Take Care of Maya trial: What will the jury hear? Lawyers argue over evidence, witnesses in case

Attorney Mark Zimmerman, who represented Maya when she was at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital, said he felt as if the facility, and, in particular, social worker Catherine Bedy, tried to put up barriers for him to access Maya.

Beata Kowalski with Maya and Kyle

Bedy was the social worker assigned to Maya and the Kowalski family dropped its case against her shortly before the trial began.

A phone call between Beata Kowalski and Maya that was monitored by woman Maya identified as Bedy was also played in court. Charlotte La Porte, a manager for Pathways stated that her voice could be heard in a recorded call redirecting conversation between mother and daughter after Beata Kowalski mentioned the case.

However, Mayas former Guardian Ad Litem, Jessica Blackrick, testified that Bedy cut a phone short a phone call in which Maya and her mother were praying together.

RELATED: 'Take Care of Maya trial: All Childrens Hospital attorneys play supervised calls for jury in $220M case

Blackrick added that a phone call that Maya wanted to make to her mother on Thanksgiving was blocked by Bedy because she couldnt make herself available to monitor it. Blackrick went on to state that she never told Bedy to monitor those phone calls.

Pictured: Maya Kowalski with boots on her feet.

Lindsey Masica, who worked for DCF as a child protective investigator while Maya was at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital stated during her testimony that she knew Bedy was listening in on phone calls between Maya and her mother.

The battery allegations from the Kowalski family stem from Bedy and others holding Maya down for unwanted photos and unwanted comforting.

Bedy described how she met Maya and accused her mother, Beata Kowalski, of having Munchausen by proxy, but admitted she was not an expert on the disease and stated she had only worked with three similar cases.

READ: Take Care of Maya trial: Social worker Catherine Bedy testifies via video deposition in $220 million case

Bedy said she saw Beata Kowalski demand ketamine for her daughter. Although the hospital says it believed the ketamine treatments were too dangerous, Bedy admitted that the facility did not take into consideration that Maya had been prescribed the ketamine treatments.

Maya Kowalski in hospital.

After seeing Bedys deposition, the jury was dismissed, while the court held a hearing on future evidence in the case. During the hearing, Mayas father Jack Kowalski was asked about Bedy, and he said Maya couldnt stand her.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: What will the jury hear? Lawyers argue over evidence, witnesses in case

"She stated she placed her on the lap. I never gave consent by the way on that. She stated that she used to come in and slap her leg to see if she was in pain, she said she wanted to adopt her that her mother was in a mental home, so she could be like her mother while in the hospital," he said.

Mark Anderson, who held several executive leadership positions at healthcare facilities, and was the chief operating officer for a childrens hospital in Wisconsin, testified for the defense on October 25.

Mark Anderson testifies for the defense in the 'Take Care of Maya' trial.

He explained how a multidisciplinary childrens hospitals work, the organizations that hold the facilities accountable and the process of employee performance reviews.

Specifically, Anderson was asked about Bedy's performance reviews.

A video recorded deposition of Bedy was played for the jury several weeks ago while the plaintiffs were presenting their case.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Mayas aunt testifies in $220 million case against All Childrens Hospital

She began her deposition by explaining how she was written up by the hospital after yelling at a co-worker after an attorney asked her if she had ever been disciplined at work.

Anderson told jurors that Bedy was reviewed positively by her peers, but noted she was given an oral warning after a verbal argument with a colleague.

During cross-examination, the Kowalski's attorney noted that Bedy had been counseled several times about her interactions with co-workers.

She was documented as saying, "Do you want to take this outside?"

Anderson stated that Bedy appeared to receive counseling on her behavior based on Human Resources records he reviewed.

He added that he didnt see anything that would prohibit Bedy from being assigned to Maya.

Bedy is scheduled to testify for the defense on Monday, October 30.

Pictured: Maya at a Halloween event at the hospital.

Why did medical staff believe Maya was being abused?

Dr. Teppa-Sanchez wasn't the only medical professional to suspect something was amiss when it came to Maya's condition and ketamine treatments.

During her testimony, nurse practitioner Johannah Klink echoed the statements of Dr. Teppa-Sanchez. She testified that Maya appeared to show more intense pain symptoms when her mother was present.

Pictured: Maya and Beata Kowalski

She went on to state that she witnessed Maya moving in ways that someone in intense pain would not be able to move such as get up on her knees on a hospital bed.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Attorneys wrap up Kowalskis' side in $220M case against All Children's Hospital

Klink also recalled Maya saying, "Im tired of these lies. My whole life is a lie. That stuck me. That struck me very hardIt sounded to me like it was a cry for help."

However, during cross-examination, Klink told the jury that she never followed up on that statement or asked Maya to elaborate. She did note that she reported the statement to doctors.

Nurse practitioner Johannah Klink testified on Thursday.

Before the plaintiffs rested, psychiatrist Dr. Scott Richards took the stand and told jurors how he believed Beata Kowalski felt she had no choice but to end her life.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Attorneys wrap up Kowalski's side in $220M case against All Children's Hospital

"I believe the impulse happened for Beata Kowalski when she finally had the impulse that I can do no more. Ive gotten everyone in my life involved, no one can seem to help," said Dr. Richards.

"I liken it to someone who is impulsively having emotions, they write an email, and they hit send, and they wish they hadnt of send it. In this case there was no delete. You couldnt unsend the impulse," he added.

Nurse practioner Bonnie Rice who worked at Tampa General Hospital and was a part of Mayas care team in 2015 said Mayas case was frustrating for the medical team because she said Maya and her mother werent open and she couldnt move them down the road of recovery.

Rice added that Beata Kowalski was strictly seeking medical help for her daughter when the team at TGH suspected Mayas pain may be psychological.

The team at TGH weren't the only ones to raise psychological suspicions.

Dr. James Lewis, a neuropsychologist and a consultant for the Child Protection Team, told jurors he met with Maya after staff at Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital raised concerns that her mother may have been medically abusing her.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Lawyers, judge to hash out jury instructions in $220 million case

In a video deposition, Dr. Lewis stated that he believed Maya may have been suffering from a psychological symptom of pain, which may have triggered physical pain symptoms.

Pictured: Maya Kowalski

Why was Maya taking ketamine?

Beata Kowalski, who was a registered nurse, learned about CRPS from an infusion patient and began researching the disease. Her research led her to Dr. Anthony Kirkpatrick, who diagnosed Maya with CRPS and prescribed ketamine treatments.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Doctor who prescribed ketamine treatments testifies in $220 million case

Dr. Kirkpatrick told the jury that initially Maya said the ketamine treatments helped, but not enough so he recommended a high-intensity treatment in Mexico, which he said was a success.

"He explained the procedure. He talked about how its been around for quite a long time. He mentioned its used for many things, and its safe," Jack Kowalski stated during testimony on Monday. "The side effect when theyre coming out of it is a hallucination for a short time, but then everything is back to normal."

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Maya's former attorney, doctor testifies in case against All Children's Hospital

Upon cross-examination of Jack Kowalski, defense attorneys for the hospital questioned the familys decision to move forward with ketamine coma treatment in Mexico.

File: Ketamine

"Were you aware that the risk of death from that coma was 50%?" asked Ethen Shapiro.

"There is a risk in every procedure," Jack Kowalski responded.

"I understand that Mr. Kowalski but respectfully theres a risk and then theres a risk thats a coin flip in which your daughter could pass. Did you know it was 50%" Shapiro pressed on.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Doctor who's treated thousands for CRPS testifies on behalf of Maya

"They stated it was 50%, but they stated no one every died from that procedure," responded Kowalski.

Side by side images of Maya Kowalski as she battled CRPS.

Mayas father told the jury he and his family saw Maya slowly returning to herself following the ketamine therapy.

Dr. Kirkpatrick shared a similar testimony

"She could take care of herself, comb her hair, brush her teeth, eat with her hands and so forth" he recalled.

During a video deposition, Dr. Lewis stated that Maya had overheard doctors telling her mother that she had a 50 percent chance of dying during the ketamine treatment, which added to her anxiety.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Doctor who prescribed ketamine treatments testifies in $220 million case

When Maya relapsed in 2016, the Kowalski family says staff at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital didnt agree with the ketamine treatments.

Maya Kowalski in the hospital.

Dr. Kirkpatrick said he discussed Mayas condition with the hospital.

"I emphasized that if she doesnt get the ketamine, its going to be a slow, painful death," Dr. Kirkpatrick stated.

Dr. Fernando Cantu, the doctor who administered Maya's ketamine coma, explained to the jury that while it will not cure CRPS, ketamine is a treatment for the disease.

Maya and her physician Fernando Cantu.

Ketamine controversy

Dr. Elliot Krane, professor emeritus of anesthesiology from the Stanford University School of Medicine, who helped launch the pediatric pain center at Stanford University and treated lots of children with CRPS, testified that though he never treated Maya, he did review her medical records and does not believe she suffered from CRPS.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Defense hones in on Munchausen by proxy, ketamine treatments in $220M case

He also told the jury that he believed Maya had become dependent on ketamine and had developed a tolerance to the painkiller.

"They cant wait to get their next dosage of ketamine, theyre anxious, sometimes begging for ketamine. They feel pain, because its all the opposite of what ketamine does," Dr. Krane said.

Medical staff at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital told jurors that Maya was swearing at them and demanding sedatives when she was brought to the facility in October 2016 for what she described as a flare up from CRPS. Dr. Krane stated that he believes the abdominal pain that led Maya's parents to bring her to the hospital in 2016 was actually caused by ketamine.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Maya testifies again in $220 million case against All Childrens Hospital

Under oath, Maya told jurors her condition would leave her screaming in pain and unable to walk at the time.

She explained that the ketamine treatment worked, and she was improving until October 2016, when she says she experienced a flare up of pain.

However, Dr. Krane stated that Maya was receiving 10 times the amount of ketamine for someone her size and she should have been receiving physical, occupational and psychological therapy for the pain she said she was experiencing.

RELATED: Take Care of Maya trial: Defense witnesses shocked by ketamine doses given to child as $220M case continues

Dr. Krane wasn't the only physician surprised by the amount of ketamine Maya was taking.

"I was quite surprised and shocked at the amount of ketamine that was reported, "stated Dr. Richard Andrew Elliot, an anesthesiologist at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. "They were way higher than any doses I had ever seen given to a child."

What is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

CRPS is a rare pain disease that can follow an injury, and its tough to diagnose and sufferers are sometimes accused of faking their pain.

PREVIOUS: Take Care of Maya trial: CRPS takes center stage in $200 million case against All Childrens Hospital

Theres no cure for CRPS and treatments can range from acupuncture and nutrition to physical therapy and massage or ketamine therapy.

The Kowalski family attorney argued that the hospital staff refused to believe Maya had CRPS even after Dr. Kirkpatrick, who did not work for All Childrens Hospital, confirmed her diagnosis.

PREVIOUS: Take Care of Maya trial: Testimony continues in $200 million case against All Childrens Hospital

The Kowalski family claims that while hospital staff was accusing them of lying about CRPS and refusing to treat Maya, the facility was billing the family and their insurance more than half a million dollars for that exact cause of illness.

File: Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital

Jurors will ultimately have to decide whether what happened to the Kowalski family could have been prevented and if the hospitals actions pushed Beata Kowalski to take her own life.

PREVIOUS: Take Care of Maya: Jury selection begins in civil case against Johns Hopkins All Childrens Hospital

"We ask in this case for you to consider not only compensatory damages to try to make them whole for these terrible things, but also punitive damages to deter them to punish them and to deter this type of behavior in the future," said Greg Anderson, Maya Kowalskis lawyer.

An economist detailed expenses the family has incurred and will incur on the future and came up with $220 million.

The judge says he plans on giving the case to the jury by November 7 for deliberations.
On Saturday Nov. 4 and Sunday Nov. 5, cat lovers from all over will gather at the Lebanon Valley Expo Center for a cat show, hosted by club Tabby Tales of The International Cat Association.

The categories of cats on show are kittens from ages 4-8 months, championship cats, alters, which are neutered and spayed, household pet kittens and household pet adults.

Over 30 different breeds of cats will be shown during the contest to two circuits of eight judges, one for each day. 10 cats are picked from each category by judges for a final round of showing, awarding ribbons to the best cats.

Judges will review championship cats and alters, which are cats with pedigree, based on standards like eye color, coat length, coat color and ear placement.

Tabby Tales, a club a part of The International Cat Association, will host a cat show at the Lebanon Valley Expo Center on Nov. 4 and 5.

Household cats, meaning the average cat that shows up at your front door or adopted at an adoption center, will be judged based on if their claws are clipped, their ears clean, their overall cleanliness, and how fun they are.

"A lot of the judges say that their most favorite rings are the ones with the household pets because there's no standards," said show manager Vicki White, "they just get to pick the one that they like."

Along with the show, vendors will be around the expo center with cat-related wares along with a winery and Friends of All Animals, a Lebanon area rescue organization that will have some adoptable cats.

Plenty of breeders and experts will also be around the show, for those looking for more information or to own a specific kind of cat.

White said that cats can still be entered into the show as long as they register their cat with The International Cat Association.

"As long as they get the request in, the cat can be labeled as pending. They don't have to have the exact registration number, it'll come up as pending and they can enter," White said.

In order for a cat to qualify for the show they have to be up to date on their vaccinations.

Judging begins around at 9 a.m.

Tickets can be purchased at the door, $10 for adults, $5 for children and $8 for veterans and seniors. Children under 4 get in for free and bringing a can of cat food for donation grants $1 off.

White said at the previous event for a different TICA club she's involved with had about 200 spectators.

Daniel Larlham Jr. is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at DLarlham@LDNews.com or on X @djlarlham.

This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: Cat lovers from all over will meet in Lebanon for November cat show
More details are emerging  as well as disputes about the circumstances  in the crash on Pacific Coast Highway that killed four Pepperdine University students last week.

Niamh Rolston, Peyton Stewart, Asha Weir and Deslyn Williams were sisters in the Alpha Phi sorority and seniors at the university. Authorities say they were standing near several parked vehicles in the 21600 block of PCH in Malibu when a BMW barreled into the cars and then struck the women shortly before 9 p.m. Oct. 17.

Here is a review of what we know from Times reporting:

Flowers are placed near the site where the four Pepperdine students were killed. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)

What do authorities say happened?

Los Angeles County prosecutors allege the driver, Fraser Michael Bohm , 22, was speeding at 104 mph. The stretch of road has a speed limit of 45 mph.

Investigators have determined that Bohm was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash, but the onboard computer of his car shows he was traveling in excess of 100 mph before he lost control, law enforcement sources not authorized to publicly discuss the case told The Times.

Read more: Driver sped at 104 mph in Malibu crash that killed 4 Pepperdine students, D.A. says

It was that data, along with statements by Bohm that he was familiar with the stretch of PCH and that he was aware of the posted 45-mph speed limit, that led to murder charges against him, sources say.

Bohm faces four counts of malice murder and four counts of gross vehicular manslaughter, Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. George Gascon said during a Wednesday news conference, adding that the charges stem from Bohms complete disregard for the life of others.

When you are driving at 104 mph in [a] 45-mph [zone], the only conclusion is you have a complete disregard for life, Gascon said Wednesday in announcing the charges.

Read more: 'Enraged': PCH crash is focus of emotional Malibu council meeting, where speakers demand change

What does Bohm's attorney say?

But Bohms attorney, Michael Kraut, says his client was not traveling that fast. He also has forwarded a claim to prosecutors alleging that another vehicle was involved in the crash. He said Wednesday that his client was the victim of a road-rage incident that night.

They ignored evidence of a second car, Kraut told The Times. My client was getting away from the guy chasing him.

Kraut said another driver came into the lane and clipped him and Bohm hit the brakes.

The evidence turned over showed at max [he was going] 70 mph, Kraut said of the information he has received in the case, adding that his client has totally cooperated with the investigation and passed a field sobriety test.

Los Angeles County sheriffs Sgt. Jim Arens told reporters Wednesday at the news conference that he had no evidence that the crash stemmed from an alleged road-rage incident.

Read more: After deaths of four Pepperdine students on Pacific Coast Highway, a memorial and a call to action

How has Malibu responded to the crash?

There has been an outpouring of grief for the victims as well as demands that officials do more to improve pedestrian safety on PCH, which has been the site of numerous accidents.

The City Council unanimously voted this week to ask staff for a report and to consider a motion to declare an emergency, which would free up resources within its jurisdiction to make PCH safer. But before those actions, nearly 30 people stood up to express their grief and anger about the deadly dangers posed by the stretch of road where the young women were killed.

Michel Shane is a film producer and father of Emily, who was killed at age 13 by a speeding driver while she was walking on the sidewalk along PCH in Malibu in 2010. Shane made a documentary around the incident and told The Times prior to the start of the meeting that he was on hand to push for the California Department of Transportation to make changes to improve safety.

A petition Shane created on Oct. 20 as a call to action has garnered more than 4,000 signatures.

Residents and business owners have said speeding is a chronic problem in the area where the accident occurred. They blame Caltrans District 7 for a lack of change.

Over the last 10 years, Caltrans has counted more than 4,000 collisions along PCH in Malibu, with the primary causes being speeding and improper turns, the city says. After the Oct. 17 crash, Malibu outlined the traffic safety improvements it had already made, including pedestrian crosswalk improvements and traffic signal synchronization.

But those who spoke at Mondays meeting were demanding that more be done: speed cameras added, the speed limit reduced and more sheriffs deputies and California Highway Patrol officers policing the highway.

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.
Local Indigenous leaders agree they want to protect the Pacific Ocean along Californias Central Coast through a new national marine sanctuary.

However, they clash when it comes to the proposed name of the sanctuary: Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary.

When youre putting another tribal name on our ancestral land, its wrong and its extremely disrespectful, Karen White, council chair for the Xolon Salinan Tribe, told The Tribune.

As proposed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary would stretch from Hazard Canyon Reef, south of Morro Bay, to an area just north of Goleta in Santa Barbara County, according to draft designation documents released on Aug. 24.

The original nomination put forth by the Northern Chumash Tribal Council proposed that the sanctuary would stretch as far north as Cambria to meet the boundary of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

NOAA said it removed a roughly 30-mile-long stretch of coastline from Cambria through Morro Bay from the proposed sanctuarys boundaries in part because it wanted to alleviate concerns about the name of the sanctuary. 

Although disputed by some tribal entities, modern-day maps place the boundary line between Chumash and Salinan ancestral lands as around Morro Bay.

NOAA has also said that removing the 30-mile section of the proposed sanctuary better enables the development of floating wind turbines in the Pacific Ocean.

Indigenous advocates have argued that the agency shouldnt remove sanctuary protection from the coast to streamline such development. Instead, they say the agency should ensure theres a process to safely allow offshore wind energy projects to proceed within the sanctuary.

Fish-eating sea anemone live on the rocky reef off Point Estero, where NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and partners are listening to underwater sound inside the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary.

Tribes propose alternative sanctuary names

Both Salinan and Chumash tribes say they want the sanctuary boundaries to reflect the original nomination so the entire Central Coast can be protected from harmful development such as oil drilling.

The name is not more important than the sanctuary, representatives from the Xolon Salinan Tribe, yak tityu yak tihini Northern Chumash Tribe, Barbareno Band of Chumash Indians, Salinan Trowtraahl and Barbareno/Ventureno Band of Mission Indians wrote in a joint letter to NOAA on Oct. 21.

We propose a return to geographic naming conventions and suggest Estero-Gaviota National Marine Sanctuary as an alternative, the letter continued.

This graphic shows what NOAA proposes to be the boundaries of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary.

The Salinan Tribe of Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties wrote a letter to NOAA on Tuesday voicing its own concerns about the proposed name of the sanctuary.

At this point, the proposed name is not only historically inaccurate, but it also continues to perpetuate the false narrative that the Central Coast of California from the Channel Islands to the Monterey County border is the home to only one homogenized culture, the Chumash culture, the Salinan tribe wrote in its letter to NOAA.

The Salinan tribe points out in its letter that NOAA is well aware that the proposed sanctuary boundaries overlap with several different tribal ancestral lands.

The coastal area in the study area has been occupied for centuries by Indigenous people, NOAAs Aug. 24 draft environmental impact statement for the proposed sanctuary said. The area embodies a special sense of place with sacred meaning and significant cultural values for the Chumash, Salinan and other Indigenous people that still reside in the region today.

In its letter the Salinan tribe suggested four alternatives for the name of the sanctuary: Pacific Coast Tribal Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, Chumash/Salinan Heritage National Marine Sanctuary, Indigenous Peoples Heritage National Marine Sanctuary and Central Coast Indigenous Heritage National Marine Sanctuary.

A humpback whale kicks up its tail in the proposed Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary on July 12, 2023, just offshore from Morro Bay.

Original nominators of sanctuary want Chumash name to stay

The Northern Chumash Tribal Council has held steadfast on its proposed name for the sanctuary.

In an online petition circulated by the organization, the tribal council asks people to support the proposed name, Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary because it honors the cultural history and stewardship of California tribal peoples.

The name will recognize peoples that have lived on the California coast since time immemorial and protect the heritage of the Chumash, an ocean-going band among the First People of the Pacific Coast, the petition continues. We want to honor the late Chief Fred Collins nomination and vision for the sanctuary and the 10 years of work that the Northern Chumash Tribal Council did to campaign for the sanctuary.

Collins daughter, Violet Sage Walker, is the tribal councils lead.

She told The Tribune that those protesting the proposed sanctuarys name seems to be attempting to sabotage its designation.

The bigger picture is the overall goal of what were trying to do, which is protect the ocean, she said.

Fred Collins, a tribal administrator for the Northern Chumash Tribal Council, speaks with supporters of the Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary before the start of the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors meeting on Feb. 7, 2017.

Chumash name is offensive, some say

In interviews with The Tribune, tribal leaders such as White from the Xolon Salinan tribe and Mona Tucker, chairperson of the yak tityu yak tihini Northern Chumash Tribe, said designating the sanctuary is vital to the protection of the Central Coasts ocean ecosystems.

The reduction in the size of the sanctuary was outrageous, Tucker said. And the way to solve this is to change the name.

White said that, should the sanctuary extend up to Cambria, keeping the name as Chumash Heritage disregards the historical conflicts between the different tribes along the Central Coast.

Theres a lot of old history. Our ancestors protected that area, she said, referring to the area around and north of Morro Rock. There were many battles. They died for that land. Were their voice, we need to speak up for what they did.

White also noted that the names Salinan and Chumash were assigned to Indigenous tribes by the U.S. government and anthropologists.

They put these generic names on our heads, so its not really how we called ourselves, she said. We can tell NOAA is trying to be respectful of the tribes, but they need to do better to truly respect us all.
A Central Florida woman was sentenced this week on a felony charge stemming from her actions during the Jan. 6, 2021 breach of the U.S. Capitol.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

According to the department of justice, 57-year-old Leslie Gray left her home in St. Cloud on Jan. 4 and traveled to Washington D.C. to take part in protests of Congress certification of the Electoral College votes for the 2020 presidential election.

After arriving in D.C. on Jan. 6, Gray joined a mob gathered at the East side of the Capitol as they surged past barricades, ignoring U.S. Capitol Police orders to stop.

READ: Deputies: Central Florida Uber driver kept stolen rental car running for weeks to avoid payments

Gray live streamed her activities on Facebook, broadcasting video of herself calling police commies and encouraging others to push back against them.

Leslie Gray while yelling

Despite continued orders to stop, Gray joined the mob as they pushed past police and illegally entered the Capitol.

Once inside the Capitol, court records say Gray continued to film herself in the Rotunda, stating I am in Congress. This is our house.

READ: Lewiston shootings: A timeline of the events of the mass shootings in Maine

After refusing orders to leave the Capitol building, Gray was forcibly removed from the building just under 20 minutes after she first entered.

Once outside, prosecutors say Gray continued her live stream, stating We stormed the Capitol todayAmerican patriots stormed the Capitol today. I am an American patriot. I stormed the Capitol today.

Leslie Gray while stating,

Gray was arrested in Florida on June 15, 2022 and pleaded guilty to a felony charge of obstruction of an official proceeding on June 1 of this year.

READ: Protesters interrupt tour of new affordable housing development in Parramore

Gray was sentenced Monday to 12 months and one day in prison plus an additional 12 months of supervised release, $2,000 in restitution, and a $100 special assessment.

The investigation into the Jan. 6 Capitol breach is ongoing. The justice department is still asking people to relay tips about suspected participants to the FBI here, or by calling 1-800-225-5424.

Since Jan. 6, more than 1,100 people from nearly all 50 states have been charged for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 400 charged with felonies.

Read the full criminal complaint below:

U.S. vs Leslie Gray criminal complaint by Charles Frazier on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.





Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
The lawyer for Charlie Adelson told jurors during opening statements Thursday that he was innocent  and instead pointed the finger at his ex-girlfriend and her associates for the 2014 murder of Dan Markel.

It was the first time since the murder that Adelson, a Fort Lauderdale dentist who was a suspect for years before his arrest in 2022, has offered an explanation for what happened.

Prosecutors have long accused Adelson and his family, including his sister, Wendi Adelson, and their parents, Donna and Harvey Adelson, of involvement in the murder of Markel, which happened amid a bitter divorce and child custody battle between Wendi and Markel, her ex-husband. The Adelsons wanted Wendi to move to Miami with the two kids she shared with Markel, but a judge had blocked the request.

Daniel Rashbaum, a Miami attorney representing Adelson, told jurors about a bad joke his client told many times that he had bought his sister a TV after her divorce with Markel because it was cheaper than hiring a hit man.

Rashbaum said Adelson also told the joke to his girlfriend, Katherine Magbanua, who was also aware of a plan the Adelson family had talked about involving paying Markel $1 million so he could move to Miami and commute back and forth to Tallahassee.

You will learn that Kati heard the hit man joke, Rashbaum said. You will learn that she heard the million dollar offer and got some ideas in her head. The state itself has called Katherine Magbanua the mastermind, and thats exactly what she was.

Rashbaum said that on the night of the murder, after Charlie Adelson had had a long day working as a traveling periodontist, his mother called to tell him that Markel had been shot.

Hes shocked, Rashbaum said. Hes upset. His first reaction is Wendi and the boys OK?

Later, Magbanua sat him down and told Adelson that something terrible has happened.

She says a friend of hers had shot Professor Markel, Rashbaum said. "She tells him over and over that she had nothing to do with it. But ... she had been talking too much and her friend and these people learned about the problems that his family was having with Professor Markel. They learned about the million dollar offer. And they got it in their minds to do this.

Rashbaum said Magbanua wouldn't tell her who the people were who killed Markel but that he needed to pay them within 48 hours or one of his family members would be next.

Charlie Adelson listens as his attorney, Daniel Rashbaum, presents an opening statement to the jury, Oct. 26, 2023.

Earlier in the morning, Assistant State Attorney Sarah Kathryn Dugan told jurors that the evidence will show that Charlie Adelson hired the hit men to kill Markel.

She said the Adelsons desperately wanted Wendi to relocate with the children to Miami. A judge had also denied a request for relocation, which meant she couldnt move unless of course something happened to Dan Markel," Dugan said.

Dugan walked jurors through the day of the murder, telling them that Markel was shot the morning of July 18, 2014, after he dropped his children off at daycare, went to the gym and returned to his home on Trescott Drive.

A next door neighbor had seen a silver/green Prius speeding away from Markels home after the shooting. Investigators traced the car back to Sigfredo Garcia, the father of Magbanuas children. They uncovered numerous phone calls between Charlie Adelson and Magbanua and Magbanua to Garcia, who carried out the hit with his close friend, Luis Rivera, a Latin Kings gang leader.

Assistant State Attorney Sarah Kathryn Dugan presents opening statements to the jury on Oct. 26, 2023, during the first day of Charlie Adelsons trial. Dugan said the Adelson family had a big problem, and Adelson was the solution.

Dan Markel was a problem this defendant needed to solve for his family," Dugan said.

Dugan walked jurors through an undercover FBI operation called the bump in which an agent approached Donna Adelson with a newspaper article about Markel and $5,000 written on it.

Afterward, she said, Donna Adelson didnt contact police but instead called her son, Charlie, telling him she had been given paperwork that involved the two of them and that they need to talk in person.

Soon after, Charlie Adelson met with Magbanua at the Dolce Vita restaurant in Miami, where their conversation was recorded by an undercover agent at a nearby table.

During the meeting, Adelson discussed whether the person who approached his mom was a blackmailer or possibly a cop. He said it would be a good thing if it were the police, because it meant they didnt have enough evidence to charge them.

If they had any evidence, we would already be at the airport, Adelson said.

Dugan also explained how Charlie Adelson kept large sums of money at his house, with $100 bills stapled together in stacks of thousands. She said that the day after the murder, Magbanua paid the hit men $100,000 in stapled bills.

She urged jurors to find Charlie Adelson guilty of murder.

Dan Markel was loved, she said. He was a brother. He was a son. And this trial is his familys opportunity to see justice done for the person who set up their sons murder. And at the conclusion of this evidence, you all will be convinced beyond any reasonable doubt that this defendant is guilty.

Rashbaum, who asserted that Garcia tried to kill Charlie Adelson 17 days before the murder, suggested his client was a victim, too.

A mans life is in your hands, he said. Hes innocent. Send him home.

Charlie Adelson sits in on jury selection with his attorneys for his trial on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

GAVEL-TO-GAVEL COVERAGE: The Tallahassee Democrat will livestream each day of the trial of Charlie Adelson from the courthouse in Tallahassee. Watch on Tallahassee.com and the Tallahassee Democrat's Facebook and YouTube pages. For best viewing experience: Download the Tallahassee Democrat app to watch and receive text alerts on when to watch  from opening arguments to the verdict.

Contact Jeff Burlew at jburlew@tallahassee.com or 850-599-2180. Follow him for court updates on X at @JeffBurlew.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Dan Markel murder: Charlie Adelson attorney points finger in openings
An investment of 4.6m will create hundreds of new jobs at a former AstraZeneca site in Leicestershire.

Work to revamp unused laboratories at Charnwood Campus, in Loughborough, will create a total of 222 jobs within five years.

The aim is to create a "world-class" biochemistry building.

Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) is funding the project, in partnership with Charnwood Borough Council.

The redevelopment of the derelict site will make 9,417 sq m of specialised laboratory and office space available.

Andy Reed OBE, LLEP co-chair, said: "This lab space will bring inward investment through the arrival of the first tenant.

"But it will also support the development and growth of businesses in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and medtech sectors by offering research, development, and small batch manufacturing capacity here in Leicestershire."

It is hoped that the investment will help bring forward other projects already under development.

Gosia Khrais commercial and marketing director at Charnwood Campus, said: "This investment will help accelerate our ambition to become a meaningful life sciences asset in the region, attracting inward investment, and providing employment directly on the site and within our local supply chain."

Charnwood Campus was formed in 2014 and was the UK's first Life Sciences Opportunity Zone.

The site was vacated by AstraZeneca in 2011.

Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk.
The Sangamon County State's Attorney's office has filed two counts of attempted first-degree murder against a Chicago man accused of shooting an Illinois State Police trooper during a traffic stop in Springfield on Tuesday evening.

Cristobol Santana, 37, has also been charged with aggravated battery with a firearm against a peace office, aggravated battery against a peace office and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon.

A detention hearing has been rescheduled for Friday in Sangamon County Circuit Court after Santana requested private counsel.

Santana was arrested shortly before 2 a.m. Wednesday after he fled from police following a traffic stop in the 1600 block of Toronto Road in Springfield. ISP said that Trooper Kody Green had stopped Santana at 10:47 p.m., in response to a homicide in Chicago where Santana was a suspect.

During the stop, gunshots were fired, with the trooper being hit in the leg and Santana fleeing on foot. The trooper was in serious but stable condition at a Springfield hospital Wednesday.

More: Cause of death released for former WTVP President and CEO Lesley Matuszak

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Chicago man charged with attempted murder in trooper shooting
Milwaukee police have opened a homicide investigation after a 5-year-old boy reported missing Wednesday was found dead in a dumpster Thursday.

Police have taken two persons of interest into custody  a 27-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy.

Prince McCree of Milwaukee was last seen Wednesday morning at his home, on the 2400 block of North 54th Street, according to police and neighbors. His body was found just before 9 a.m. Thursday about a mile south, on the 5500 block of West Vliet Street, Milwaukee police said.

A cause of death is under investigation.

State Sen. LaTonya Johnson, a neighbor of the family, said Princes parents were knocking door-to-door in search of him into the night Wednesday. She said the two persons of interest live in the same home, but she was unsure of their relation to the family.

They were distraught, Johnson said of the family. It was a shock. This neighborhood is relatively quiet. You dont see a lot of police activity. We knew it was something serious.

Police work at the scene of where a body was found in a dumpster Thursday, October 26, 2023 near the intersection of N. Hawley Rd. and W. Vliet Street in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

It was not immediately clear what circumstances led up to Prince going missing. A neighbor, who only identified himself as Riley and a member of the areas neighborhood block watch, said Prince was seen playing with other kids Wednesday morning.

Prince was last seen alive at 9 a.m. inside his home by his mother, according to an alert from Milwaukee police. He was discovered missing around 1 p.m.

Police issued a "critically missing" alert about Prince at about 8:30 p.m. Critically missing alerts are sent out to media outlets to notify the public about a missing person who may be in immediate danger for a variety of reasons. Children age 11 or younger are automatically considered critically missing under Milwaukee police policy.

An Amber Alert, which would have sent an alert to cell phone users in the area, was not issued. Johnson said that was because law enforcement did not have enough information about a suspect or a suspect vehicle.

Amber Alerts require specific criteria to be met before being issued, including having sufficient information about the child, suspect or vehicle to believe an immediate broadcast would help in locating the child, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Its sad for the family, she said. Hes a 5-year-old baby. Theyre struggling.

Johnson said the family includes two parents and three children. She had little contact with them prior to Wednesday but said she had seen them walk to a corner store on occasion.

Theyve always been respectful, she said. Theyre quiet.

Ald. Michael Murphy, who represents the neighborhood, said the city would be traumatized by Princes death.

Its a terrible tragedy for the whole community to see another child so senselessly lose their life and then to be discarded in the manner in which they found the child, he said.

Murphy said he had not been told how the child died. He referred questions about the connections between the two people arrested and the child to police.

Princes death comes within weeks after 12-year-old Jacarie Robinson was found dead in his home on the citys northwest side. His body was found malnourished and in an advanced state of decomposition.

His father, 45-year-old Ramuan Moye, has been charged with four felonies in connection to the death.

More: Who gets an Amber Alert in Wisconsin? Heres what the data showed

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee police find Prince McCree, 5, dead in search for missing boy
Consequences of one of the Russian attacks

One child has been killed as a result of Russian shelling in Kherson Oblast, according to Oleksandr Prokudin, the head of the Kherson Oblast Military Administration (OVA), on Oct. 26.

A 13-year-old boy suffered severe injuries, and medical professionals could only confirm his death, Prokudin said.

A 43-year-old man suffered a through-and-through shoulder wound, while a 35-year-old man sustained eye damage and shrapnel injuries to the face. Both men were affected by explosive and gunshot wounds.

Read also:

Over the past 24 hours, the Russians have carried out eight aerial attacks in Kherson Oblast, dropping a total of 35 guided bombs on the civilian population on the Dnipro rivers right bank.

Russian forces continue to systematically target Kherson Oblast, firing 389 projectiles from mortars, artillery, Grad rocket launchers, tanks, aircraft, and drones yesterday alone.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
WASHINGTON  While mired in the thick of a war in Israel, electing a speaker and the possibility of a second government shutdown this fall, Congress is facing a harrowing issue impacting America's youngest: A 69% increase in child labor law violations since 2018.

Sen. Bob Casey , D-Pa., is the latest lawmaker looking to update the nation's antiquated child labor laws after a steep increase in violations over the last several years.

Casey, who chairs the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Subcommittee on Children and Families, on Thursday will introduce the Children Harmed in Life-Threatening or Dangerous Labor Act, or CHILD Labor Act. The bill focuses on setting hasher penalties for child labor law violations and increasing accountability for violators, including contractors and subcontractors that employ children.

The Fair Labor Standards Act prohibits children under age 18 from being employed in dangerous jobs and mandates child labor provisions. Casey is looking to enhance the 85-year-old legislation with his bill.

"It is long past time we bring our child labor laws into the 21st century and fight back against the employers, contractors and subcontractors that violate them," Casey told USA TODAY.

The Department of Labor has seen a 69% increase in children being employed illegally by companies since 2018 and the agency's Wage and Hour Division conducted investigations during fiscal year 2023 that found an 88% increase in the number of children employed in violation since 2019.

Almost 5,800 kids were employed illegally during fiscal year 2023, according to the Department of Labor, which assessed more than $8 million in penalties for violations  an 83% increase in penalties from the year prior. Violations range from physical injuries, or even death in some cases, to children working overnight shifts that violate the Federal Labor Standards Act.

Children do not belong in factories or working during hours when they should be studying, spending time with their families, or simply being children," Casey said. "Yet too many bad actors get away with forcing kids to work long hours and under dangerous conditions."

Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., speaks during a hearing on protecting public health and the environment in the wake of the Norfolk Southern train derailment and chemical release in East Palestine, Ohio, Thursday, March 9, 2023 in Washington, D.C.

Labor Department reports increase in children employed illegally

Casey's legislation follows recent data from the Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division that conducted over 955 investigations in fiscal year 2023 and enforces the child labor provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

The division held more employers accountable to child labor laws in the last year than in any one year during the last decade.

Violations range in intensity. One from February resulted in a $1.5 million penalty against Packers Sanitation Services, a company that provides cleaning services at meat processing facilities. The division found the company employed more than 100 children who used strong chemicals to clean dangerous equipment.

Another violation from last month found nine children illegally employed and operating hazardous machinery at Florence Hardwoods, a Wisconsin-based sawmill operator. One child died from work-related injuries.

The maximum civil penalty under current law for a child labor violation is $11,000. But for many multi-billion dollar companies, that fee is not enough to deter them from violating federal law.

Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pa., speaks with reporters after a closed-door caucus meeting at the Capitol, Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, in Washington. The meeting discussed the federal charges of bribery against Sen. Bob Menendez, D-N.J.

What's in Casey's proposal?

The CHILD Labor Act of 2023 would provide enhancements to modernize the Fair Labor Standards Act and federal contracting laws to ensure companies, contractors and subcontractors that hire children are held accountable.

Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash., is co-leading the legislation with Casey. It has a companion bill in the House led by Rep. Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.

Several senators  John Fetterman of Pennsylvania, Ron Wyden of Oregon, Tina Smith of Minnesota, Alex Padilla of California, Bernie Sanders of Vermont, Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, Chris Murphy of Connecticut, Ed Markey of Massachusetts, Jack Reed of Rhode Island and Sherrod Brown of Ohio  have signed on to co-sponsor Casey's bill.

Separately, Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, and Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind. introduced a bipartisan bill last week that would also increase penalties for child labor law violations.

Casey's bill includes the following provisions:

Holding contractors and subcontractors accountable in the same manner as employers who violate child labor laws

Authorize the Secretary of Labor to label goods that are produced with child labor and issue stop-work orders to any person in violation of child labor provisions

Require the Secretary of Labor to report to Congress on an annual basis with data and recommendations concerning overall trends for work-related injuries, illnesses or deaths

Increase the civil penalty amount for persons who violate child labor provisions from $11,000 to $151,380 for each child

Amend the maximum fine from $10,000 to $750,000 for criminal penalties for any person convicted of child labor violations

Require any person who violates child labor provisions to be liable to each employee affected with a minimum of $75,000 in compensatory damages

Department of Labor seeks additional funding

As Congress looks to pass a slate of funding bills before the Nov. 17 government funding deadline, the Department of Labor is calling on Congress to meet a funding request of $50 million each for the Wage and Hour Division as well as the Office of the Solicitor of Labor to investigate child labor cases.

According to the division, between 2010 and 2019, 15% of full-time employees were lost from the annual appropriation. The division has 740 investigators nationwide who protect more than 165 million workers at 11 million workplaces.

The Department of Labor earlier this year launched an Interagency Taskforce to Combat Child Labor Exploitation and a National Strategic Enforcement Initiative on Child Labor to use data-driven strategies to initiate child-labor violations investigations.

Casey sent a letter to the Department of Labor when the task force formed urging the groups to enhance data collection to better understand where violations are taking place and better target responses.

"Recent cases of child labor violations demonstrate that we need more accountability and liability across supply chains," he wrote in the letter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Child labor violations up 69%. How Congress is addressing it.
Liftoff of a Long March 2D rocket from XIchang spaceport carrying the Yaogan 39 (04) remote sensing satellites on Oct. 23, 2023.

China is continuing to launch trios of classified remote-sensing satellites to low Earth orbit.

A Long March 2D rocket lifted off into the night sky above the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest China at 4:03 p.m. EDT on Oct. 23 (2003 GMT; 4:03 a.m. Beijing Time on Oct. 24).

The China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the countrys state-owned main space contractor, confirmed launch success shortly after liftoff and revealed the previously undeclared payloads to be a new set of Yaogan 39 series satellites .

Related: China launches mysterious new spy satellite

a white rocket launches at night, creating a large plume of exhaust lit orange by its engine fire.

Little is publicly known about the Yaogan satellites . State media outlet China Daily described the spacecraft as remote-sensing satellites tasked with observing, surveying and measuring objects on land or at sea as well as monitoring weather. Western observers believe Yaogan satellites to be for at least partly military purposes. The wider series includes optical, radar and electronic intelligence gathering satellites.

The satellites were made by the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) in Beijing and the Shanghai Academy of Spaceflight Technology (SAST), both major entities under CASC.

The new group joins three sets of Yaogan 39 triplets launched in August, September and earlier this month. Like the earlier satellites, the new gang entered orbits with an altitude of roughly 307 miles (495 kilometers) and inclined by 35 degrees.

RELATED STORIES:

 China launches Yaogan 40 spy satellite on Long March 6A rocket (video)

 China launches classified Yaogan remote sensing satellites (video)

 China adds yet another Yaogan spy satellite to its orbital fleet (launch video)

Each group will pass over the same points above Earth at different times, providing more frequent coverage over areas of interest.

The mission was China's 48th orbital launch of the year.
China launched a fresh three-man crew to the Tiangong space station Thursday morning to replace three other "taikonauts" who are wrapping up a six-month stay in orbit.

Strapped into their Shenzhou 17 ferry ship atop a Long March 2F rocket, commander Tang Hongbo , Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, 850 miles west of Beijing, at 11:14 a.m. local time.

A drone looks down on the Shenzhou 17 spacecraft as its Long March 2F rocket climbs away from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. / Credit: CCTV

After a problem-free climb to orbit, the spacecraft was released to fly on its own, clearing the way for a series of rendezvous rocket firings to catch up with the "Heavenly Palace"  Tiangong  space station. Docking was expected about six-and-a-half hours after liftoff.

"The Long March 2 rocket has sent Shenzhou 17 manned spacecraft to the preset orbit," a senior official told the Chinese flight controllers. "The solar panels have been unfolded successfully and are functioning well. I declare the launch of the Shenzhou 17 mission a complete success!"

Standing by to welcome the new crew aboard were Shenzhou 16 commander Jing Haipeng , Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, who were launched to the lab on May 30. After a brief "handover" to familiarize their replacements with the intricacies of station operation, Jing and his crewmates plan to return to Earth early next week.

As they depart, the crew plans to carry out a photo survey of Tiangong, providing the first high-resolution images of the complex in orbit against the backdrop of Earth.

The latest launch  China's sixth piloted flight to the space station and its fourth since around-the-clock staffing began in June 2022  was carried live on Chinese television, providing spectacular shots of the rocket's climb to space, and interior views of the taikonauts as they monitored cockpit displays.

The Shenzhou 17 crew (left to right): Jiang Xinlin, commander Tang Hongbo and Tang Shengjie. / Credit: China Manned Space Agency

Tang Hongbo first flew in space in 2021 as a member of the Shenzhou 12 crew, spending 92 days aboard the station. His crewmates for his second flight are space rookies.

"This is the second manned spaceflight mission for the China space station's application and development phase," he said through an interpreter during a pre-flight news conference.

"Last time, for the Shenzhou 12 mission, I participated in the construction of the space station. This time, we will conduct a number of scientific (experiments) and technical development."

They will also carry out at least one spacewalk to inspect, and possibly repair, small space debris impacts in the station's solar arrays.

"Space debris is increasing," said Lin Xigiang, deputy director of the China Manned Space Agency. "Impacts of small space objects on long duration operational spacecraft are inevitable.

"The space station solar panel (has) been hit several times by tiny objects in space, causing minor damage. It was, of course, taken into account in the design. At present, all functions and performance indicators of the space station meet the requirements."

A multi-camera view showing the Long March 2F's second stage engines, the Shenzhou 17 crew monitoring cockpit displays (upper right) and the Shenzhou 16 crew (lower right) watching live launch coverage aboard the Tiangong space station. / Credit: CCTV

But given China plans to operate its space station for at least 10 years and possibly longer, Lin said the Shenzhou 17 crew "will conduct experimental maintenance by EVA (spacewalk). It is a very challenging job."

The Chinese space station is made up of three large modules connected in a T-shaped configuration. The Tianhe core module, launched in April 2021, is the centerpiece of the complex, providing crew quarters, life support systems, communications, spacecraft controls, an airlock and multiple docking ports.

Two other large modules  Wentian and Mengtian  were attached to Tianhe in 2022.

The 450-ton International Space Station is made up of more than a dozen pressurized modules provided by the United States, Russia, the European Space Agency and Japan. Construction began in 1998 and the lab has been permanently staffed by rotating astronaut-cosmonaut crews since 2000.

The Tiangong station has a mass of about 100 tons and is roughly one-third the size of the ISS. It has been permanently staffed since June 2022 with the arrival of the Shenzhou 14 crew. While smaller than the ISS, the Chinese lab is newer and equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, computers and instrumentation.

And the Chinese, like their ISS counterparts, are encouraging foreign nationals to fly on their station.

"We would like to take this opportunity to extend an invitation to the whole world, and welcome all countries and regions committed to the peaceful use of outer space to cooperate with us and participate in China's space station flight missions," Lin said.

The ISS will be de-orbited in 2030, leaving Tiangong the only government-operated space station in low-Earth orbit. NASA is counting on commercial space stations operated by private companies to provide research opportunities in Earth orbit while the U.S. agency pursues a return to the moon later this decade.

China plans to launch its own taikonauts to the moon starting in 2030, fueling the latest chapter in an ongoing superpower space race.

"We are now solidly promoting our development and construction work to ensure that the goal of landing Chinese people on the moon by 2030 will be realized as scheduled," Lin said, speaking through an interpreter.

"With the progress of the lunar landing mission, and when the relevant conditions are met we will ... formally invite international astronauts to participate in the lunar landing mission and explore the universe together."

The State of the Blues

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A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft and a crew of three astronauts, is being prepared for lift off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre (Pedro Pardo)

China sent a fresh crew to its Tiangong space station on Thursday, in the latest mission for a growing space programme that plans to send people to the Moon by 2030.

The Shenzhou-17 blasted off from the Jiuquan launch site in northwest China at 11:14 am (0314 GMT), carrying a three-astronaut team with the youngest average age since the space station's construction.

At a farewell ceremony, hundreds of supporters waving the Chinese national flag and clutching yellow flowers cheered on the three astronauts -- wearing white and blue spacesuits -- as they were introduced to the crowds.

The patriotic song "Ode to the Motherland" was sung as the space travellers walked slowly down a short pathway between the crowds, smiling and waving goodbye before boarding a bus to the launch site.

Captaining the crew is Tang Hongbo, who is on his first return mission to the space station.

Accompanying him are Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin, both in their thirties and each making maiden space voyages.

The all-male crew is the youngest ever to man a mission to the space station, with an average age of 38.

They are set to "perform various in-orbit space science and application payload tests and experiments", Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the China Manned Space Agency, said on Wednesday.

They will also conduct some maintenance work on the station to fix some "minor damages" from space debris, he said.

"We have found that the solar wings of the space station had been hit by tiny space particles several times," Lin explained.

- Gobi launch -

Members of the previous Shenzhou-16 crew -- aboard Tiangong for nearly five months now -- are preparing to receive the trio before returning to Earth next week.

Hundreds of spectators gathered on Thursday morning near the rocket site at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, in the Gobi Desert, some wearing the blue uniforms of China's space agency.

Excitement broke out among the crowd as a loudspeaker blared a countdown and the rocket lifted off, sending plumes of smoke across the launch pad and the dry, flat desert expanse surrounding the site, before the increasingly loud roar of the engines drowned out the applause.

A livestream showed the crew onboard the space station monitoring their ascent in anticipation of their arrival.

After the rocket had been airborne for about 15 minutes, a space programme official proclaimed the launch a "complete success".

Tiangong, the crown jewel of Beijing's space programme, is constantly crewed by rotating teams of three astronauts.

- Space dream -

Plans for China's "space dream" have been put into overdrive under President Xi Jinping.

The world's second-largest economy has pumped billions of dollars into its military-run space programme in an effort to catch up with the United States and Russia.

In June, the return capsule of the Shenzhou-15 spaceship touched down at a landing site in the northern Inner Mongolia region, with state media hailing the mission as a "complete success".

That month also saw the launch of the Shenzhou-16 capsule, which carried the first Chinese civilian -- Beihang University professor Gui Haichao -- into orbit.

That crew will return to Earth on October 31 after completing a handover, officials said Wednesday.

Beijing also aims to send a crewed mission to the Moon by 2030 and plans to build a base on the lunar surface.

Deputy director Lin reiterated that aim Wednesday, saying that the "goal of landing Chinese people on the moon by 2030 will be realised as scheduled".

pfc/oho/sco
By Ryan Woo

BEIJING (Reuters) -The youngest-ever crew of Chinese astronauts departed for China's space station on Thursday, paving the way for a new generation of "taikonauts" to advance the country's space ambitions in the future.

The spacecraft Shenzhou-17, or "Divine Vessel", and its three passengers lifted off atop a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China.

Leading the six-month mission was former air force pilot Tang Hongbo , 48, who was on the first crewed mission to the space station in 2021.

His return to the orbiting outpost Tiangong, or "Celestial Palace" in Chinese, also set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflight missions by taikonauts - coined from the Chinese word for space - suggesting a faster rotation of taikonauts in coming years.

Tang, from China's second batch of astronauts in 2010, had to wait more than a decade before he was picked for his inaugural spaceflight in 2021.

By contrast, his fellow Shenzhou-17 crew members Tang Shengjie, 33, and Jiang Xinlin, 35, both travelling to space for the first time, joined China's third batch of astronauts in September 2020.

China has already kickstarted the selection process for the fourth batch of astronauts, seeking candidates with doctoral degrees in disciplines from biology, physics and chemistry to biomedical engineering and astronomy.

It is also opening the process to applicants from Hong Kong and Macau for the first time.

The first and second batches of astronauts were all former air force pilots, like Tang, who joined the People's Liberation Army in 1995 at age 20.

FOREIGN ASTRONAUTS

The selection and training process will commence soon for foreign astronauts looking to participate in joint flights to Tiangong, a senior official on China's manned space program said this year.

But as much as China is showcasing its efforts to internationalise its space missions, its space program has distinct Chinese characteristics, at least on Tiangong.

In a departure from the NASA-led International Space Station (ISS), where English is the working language, only Chinese is used on Tiangong, making Chinese-language skills a key criteria for foreign participants.

Tiangong has become a symbol of China's growing confidence in its space endeavours after being shut out of the ISS program for decades. China is banned by U.S. law from any collaboration, direct or indirect, with NASA.

Tiangong, completed in late 2022, can house a maximum of three astronauts at an orbital altitude of up to 450 km (280 miles) and will have an operational lifespan of more than 15 years.

The Shenzhou-17 astronauts will replace the Shenzhou-16 crew, who arrived at Tiangong at the end of May.

The Shenzhou-16 crew, consisting of veteran astronaut Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, is scheduled to return to earth on Oct. 31.

Zhu and Gui, both in their 30s, are from China's third batch of astronauts.

Shenzhou-17 marks China's 12th crewed mission since Yang Liwei's solo spaceflight in October 2003, the first Chinese national in space.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo; Editing by Tom Hogue and Gerry Doyle)
Highland Park Hospital President Gabrielle Cummings, left, asks about the well-being of a patient while walking through the hallways of the medical center on Oct. 23, 2023. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

As a nursing assistant in intensive care, Nicole Fernandez learned on the job. She watched older nurses not only model how to communicate with patients, but also advocate for themselves, moving slowly into hospital leadership roles.

I remember just being so excited about the possibility of being able to do what the nurses I worked with did, Fernandez said. I started to watch leaders form when I was a new nurse  and I thought, OK, I can see myself doing that.

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After 24 years at NorthShore hospitals, Fernandez will become president of Highland Park Hospital in January, as part of a cascading series of promotions at NorthShoreEdward-Elmhurst health. As NS-EEH leaders work to increase communication among hospital branches, leadership changes are coming to four Chicagoland hospitals in 2024. Three of the four new hospital presidents will be women, still a rarity in health care management nationwide.

Gabrielle Cummings, right, president of Highland Park Hospital, speaks with workers in the cafeteria on Oct. 23, 2023. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

Highland Park Hospital President Gabrielle Cummings will become president of Evanston Hospital in January. She will also oversee acute and ambulatory operations at the four NorthShore Hospitals  Evanston, Glenbrook, Highland Park and Skokie.

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Cummings will be succeeded in Highland Park by Fernandez, currently chief nursing officer at Evanston Hospital. Evanston Hospitals current president, Doug Silverstein, will retire in 2024 after 42 years with NorthShore.

Skokie Hospital President Dave Rahija will move to lead NorthShore-EEH Medical Group Operations, to be replaced by surgical services operations leader Gus Granchalek.

Additionally, Glenbrook Hospital President Jesse Peterson Hall prepares to retire in summer 2024, after 21 years with NorthShore. Maria Knecht, Glenbrook Hospital senior vice president and chief nursing officer, will step into the role.

A new cardiovascular institute based at Glenbrook Hospital will launch in the spring, shortly before Hall retires. Watching over the programs growth is one of Knechts goals for her first 100 days at the helm of the hospital, she said.

As president of Highland Park Hospital, Cummings oversaw emergency care for residents following last years July Fourth mass shooting.

In tapping four new presidents, NorthShore did not carry out an external search, Cummings told the Tribune.

Knecht has spent 15 years in advancing leadership roles at NorthShore after starting her career as a charge nurse. Knowing that most promotion at NorthShore happens internally, she said, is one of the reasons so many nurses stay for decades.

Weve got a very supportive environment here where there is a strong mentoring program in existence for leaders, Knecht said, adding: My entire tenure here Ive constantly been mentored and developed.

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With the promotions, six out of nine NorthShoreEdward-Elmhurst hospital presidents will be women. Cummings, Knecht and Fernandez join Kimberley Darey at Elmhurst Hospital, Yvette Saba at Edward Hospital and Gina Sharp at Linden Oaks Behavioral Health.

Highland Park Hospital President Gabrielle Cummings, right, speaks with Shyrie Everett, left, a senior supply chain specialist, in the hallway at Highland Park Hospital, Oct. 23, 2023. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

Cummings didnt notice the majority until after hiring decisions were made. In a female-dominated profession, focusing on employees who built trust through care work often means bringing women to the executive table, she said.

Most of the nurses and a lot of the clinicians that are doing the day-to-day health care are women, and I think our organization has acknowledged and recognized that by developing female leaders, Cummings said.

In hospitals, women are underrepresented in most leadership positions except for chief nursing officer and chief human resource officer, a 2021 study from East Carolina University found. About 27% of hospital presidents and CEOS are women, the study found.

Female hospital leaders are also more commonly found in small, rural, teaching or church-owned hospitals, ECU researchers wrote.

For Knecht, moving from nursing  a female-dominated profession  into large-scale health care management has informed the kind of workplace culture she wants to create.

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The best part of (nursing) was that I could impact five patients a day, then when I was a manager, I was like, I can influence 40, Knecht said. We understand what thats like down to the patient level at the bedside. You grow up in that and you never lose that.

Another 2021 study by seven hospitals in Ohio, Florida, Texas, Georgia and Washington found that health care networks with more women in senior leadership positions were more likely to have female CEOs.

To be able to groom other qualified female leaders for that opportunity just speaks volumes, Fernandez said.

Cummings, whose search process for Evanston Hospital took place separately, knew the change was coming for a long time, she said. Goals for the NorthShore-EEH class of leaders include better financial stability and stronger patient outcomes.

In January, Gabrielle Cummings, the current president of Highland Park Hospital, will become the president of Evanston Hospital and NorthShore Acute Care and Ambulatory Operations. (Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune)

Other goals for new leaders first 100 days include communicating more with residents in the neighborhoods surrounding NorthShore-EEH hospitals, as well as with nonclinical staff.

Working with the staff who are taking the blood or cleaning the room or delivering the meals, in addition to the staff that deliver the care  thats just going to be really important for us to keep front and center, because its going to look a little different, Fernandez said.

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Having been at Evanston Hospital before, returning as president felt like a homecoming in some ways, Cummings said.

I know all the secret passageways and the back corridors to take the fastest routes, Cummings said. Im just excited to go back and look at the campus with different eyes.
BEIJING (Reuters) - China has stepped up spending to replace Western-made technology with domestic alternatives as Washington tightens curbs on high-tech exports to its rival, according to government tenders, research documents and four people familiar with the matter.

Reuters is reporting for the first time details of tenders from the government, military and state-linked entities, which show an acceleration in domestic substitution since last year.

China has spent heavily on replacing computer equipment, and the telecom and financial sectors are probably the next target, said two people familiar with the industries. State-backed researchers also identified digital payments as particularly vulnerable to possible Western hacking, according to a review of their work, making a push to indigenize such technology likely.

The number of tenders from state-owned enterprises (SOEs), government and military bodies to nationalize equipment doubled to 235 from 119 in the 12 months after September 2022, according to a finance ministry database seen by Reuters.

In the same period, the value of awarded projects listed on the database totaled 156.9 million yuan, or more than triple the previous year.

While the database represents only a fraction of tender bids nationwide, it is the largest collection of state tenders publicly available and mirrors third-party data. China spent 1.4 trillion yuan ($191 billion) replacing foreign hardware and software in 2022, marking a year-on-year increase of 16.2%, according to IT research firm First New Voice.

But Beijing's lack of advanced chip-manufacturing capabilities prevents it from completely substituting products with alternatives that are entirely locally made, analysts say.

Previous domestic substitution efforts stalled because China did not have the "technical chops to pull off localization until now, and to a certain extent they still kind of don't," said Kendra Schaefer, head of tech policy research at Beijing-based consultancy Trivium China.

FEAR OF DEPENDENCE

SOEs were instructed last year to replace office software systems with domestic products by 2027, the first time such specific deadlines were imposed, according to five brokerage firms that cited a September 2022 order from China's state asset regulator. Reuters could not independently verify the order.

Domestic replacement projects this year have targeted markedly sensitive infrastructure, the tenders show.

One partially redacted tender for a "certain government department in Gansu province" assigned 4.4 million yuan to replace an intelligence-gathering system's equipment, without providing specifics.

People's Liberation Army units in the northeastern city of Harbin and Xiamen in the south last December meanwhile issued tenders to replace foreign-made computers.

Tech researchers such as Mo Jianlei of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the country's largest state-run research organization, said the Chinese government was increasingly concerned about Western equipment being hacked by foreign powers.

The state asset regulator did not return a request for comment.

Over the past year, state-linked researchers also called on Beijing to strengthen anti-hacking defences in its financial infrastructure due to geopolitical concerns.

One March research paper highlighted the dependence of China's UnionPay credit card system on U.S software firm BMC for settlements.

"Beware of security vulnerabilities in hardware and software set by the U.S. side ... build a financial security 'firewall'," the researchers wrote.

BMC declined to comment.

An article published this year in the journal Cyberspace Security by researchers from the state-run China Telecommunications Corporation concluded the country was overdependent on chips made by U.S. giant Qualcomm for back-end management, as well as on the iOS and Android systems.

"(They) are all firmly controlled by American companies," the researchers wrote.

As China has not signed World Trade Organization clauses governing public procurement, the substitution effort does not appear to violate international accords, according to the U.S. Treasury. The U.S. has implemented similar rules barring Chinese companies from public sector bids.

Qualcomm, Google and Apple did not immediately return requests for comment.

WINNERS AND LOSERS

China's effort to build an independent computing system dates back to at least its 2006 five-year plan for science and technology development, which listed the semiconductor and software systems sectors as national priorities.

This effort spawned state-owned companies that are increasingly winning major contracts. Two firms awarded the Harbin tenders were subsidiaries of China Electronics Corporation and China Electronics Technology Group Corporation - both heavily targeted by U.S. sanctions.

The state regulator's 2022 order pushed SOEs away from U.S. companies such as Microsoft and Adobe, according to an employee of a Beijing-based firm that develops domestic office-processing software

China Tobacco, for example, in July began switching some subsidiaries from Microsoft Windows to Huawei's EulerOS, according to an employee of a software vendor that services the state-owned manufacturer.

The people spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss clients and competitors.

For years, Western tech companies have shared their source code and entered into partnerships with domestic firms to address Beijing's concerns, but prominent computer scientists such as Ni Guangnan of the Chinese Academy of Engineering have said such measures are not sufficient for China's security needs.

China Tobacco, Microsoft and Adobe did not respond to requests for comment.

In September, Reuters and other outlets reported that some employees of central government agencies were banned from using iPhones at work.

"In certain sectors, customers ... are opting for domestic suppliers, with foreign suppliers frequently facing informal barriers," the European Union Chamber of Commerce in Beijing said in response to Reuters questions.

In a 2023 American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Shanghai report, 89% of the organization's tech business members named procurement practices favoring domestic competitors as a regulatory obstacle. It was the highest percentage of any sector.

AmCham Shanghai President Eric Zheng acknowledged China's national security concerns but said he hoped "normal procurement procedures will not be politicized so that US companies can compete fairly and pursue commercial opportunities ... to benefit both countries."

The U.S. Department of Commerce, China Electronics Corporation and China Electronics Technology Group Corporation did not return requests for comment.

HUAWEI PRIZED

Chinese tech conglomerate Huawei has emerged as the leading firm in this replacement cycle, according to three people familiar with China's enterprise tech industry, who spoke on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the issue.

In 2022, Huawei's enterprise business, which includes software and cloud computing operations, reported 133 billion yuan in sales, up 30% on the previous year.

One of the people said privately-held Huawei was seen as more nimble than state-owned groups in rolling out products and executing projects.

The other two sources highlighted Huawei's broad product suite - spanning chips to software - as an advantage.

Clients also prize Huawei for its ability to process data on internal company servers and external cloud networks, as well as its wide offering of cybersecurity products, according to the employee of a China Tobacco tech supplier.

Huawei declined to comment.

The replacement drive has re-drawn entire sub-sectors of the software industry. The combined China market share held by five major foreign makers of database management systems  the majority of which are American - dropped from 57.3% in 2018 to 27.3% by the end of 2022, according to industry group IDC.

Despite heavy spending on domestic substitution, however, foreign firms are still dominant suppliers for banking and telecoms database management. Non-Chinese companies held 90% of market share for banking database systems at the end of 2022, according to EqualOcean, a tech consultancy.

Financial institutions are generally reluctant to switch database systems despite government pressure, said one of the industry sources, adding that they have higher stability requirements than many other sectors and local players cannot yet match their needs.

Even for personal computers, banks that switch from an international brand to China's dominant supplier Lenovo would still be reliant on critical chip components provided by Western firms, one of the industry sources said.

($1 = 7.3165 Chinese yuan)

(Reporting by Beijing newsroom; Editing by Brenda Goh and Katerina Ang)
BEIJING (Reuters) -The United States does not have the right to get involved in problems between China and the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday, as tensions simmer over conflicts in disputed waters of the South China Sea.

"The U.S. is not party to the South China Sea issue, it has no right to get involved in a problem between China and the Philippines," said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning at a regular press briefing when asked about the U.S. saying it will defend the Philippines.

China and the Philippines have had several high-profile confrontations in the South China Sea, most notably in disputed waters around the Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands.

Last Sunday, a Chinese vessel collided with a Philippine boat, with Manila condemning "in the strongest degree" the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres" of the vessel.

"The U.S. promise of defending the Philippines must not hurt China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea, and it also must not enable and encourage the illegal claims of the Philippines," Mao said.

A spokesperson for the Philippine foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday at the White House that America's commitment to Philippines defence remains "iron-clad," after accusing China of acting "dangerously and unlawfully" in the South China Sea.

"Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke ... our Mutual Defence Treaty with the Philippines," Biden said in remarks during a joint meeting with Australia's prime minister.

The United States and the Philippines recently agreed on new guidelines for their 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty. The guidelines now specifically mention that mutual defence commitments would be invoked if there were an armed attack on either country anywhere in the South China Sea.

(Reporting by Eduardo Baptista and Bernard Orr; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Michael Perry)
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, right, speaks during the Great Wall Climate Dialogue held at the Yanqi hotel on the outskirts of Beijing, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. Newsom is on a weeklong tour of China to push for climate cooperation. (AP Photo/Ng Han Guan)

BANGKOK (AP)  China's Environment Minister Huang Runqiu said Thursday his country wants to strengthen cooperation with the United States to combat climate change, as he met in Beijing with California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Newsom is on a weeklong tour of China where he is pushing for climate cooperation. His trip as governor, once considered routine, is drawing attention as it comes after years of heightening tensions between the U.S. and China.

The climate is one of the few issues where the U.S. and China have agreed to work together. Relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent years over trade practices, tariff barriers, human rights abuses and the fate of Taiwan, a self-ruled island that China claims as its own territory.

Huang said Thursday that his ministry would continue to carry out agreements under a memorandum of understanding signed last year between China and California in carbon market investment, climate adaptation, environment law implementation and human-to-human exchange to strengthen cooperation and have a positive effect on China-US. environmental cooperation.

California has been a leader in regulating air pollution and other climate-related issues, Newsom said in opening remarks Thursday.

But we recognize the limits of subnational leadership. We need more partners. And Im here in that light and in that spirit of partnership and also humility, recognizing we dont have all the answers, the California governor said.

Both sides spoke about a rise in extreme weather in their countries.

California and China issued a declaration on Wednesday pledging to work together to combat climate change, including in offshore wind, advanced energy storage technologies and zero-emission vehicles, according to the text.

Newsom was greeted in Beijing with a warmth and friendliness rarely seen between U.S. and Chinese officials. On Wednesday, he met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, as well as other senior leaders including top diplomat Wang Yi and Vice President Han Zheng.

Newsom has highlighted climate as an area where both sides needed to cooperate, as it concerns the survival and future of the human population.

Governors of California, which has an economy larger than most countries, have a long history of climate collaboration with China. Democrat Jerry Brown and Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger also traveled there to swap knowledge on reducing air pollution and emissions. Brown also met Xi Jinping in 2017.

___

Associated Press video producer Olivia Zhang contributed to this report from Beijing.
When Chinas first astronaut Yang Liwei blasted off into space in 2003, it was a history making moment that declared his countrys arrival as an emerging space power.

Two decades on, China has become a major presence in space  a status that mirrors its growing economic, political and military ascendency on Earth. It now has its own permanent outpost in orbit  a fully operational space station  and routinely rotates crews to live and work there.

On Thursday, three Chinese astronauts lifted off on the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center deep in the Gobi Desert, heading for the Tiangong space station for a six-month stay.

They are the youngest crew China has ever sent to space  with an average age of 38. Among their tasks on board is to repair the solar panels that were damaged by space debris  the first time Chinese astronauts will carry out repair work outside the station.

This is Chinas sixth manned mission to its space station since 2021. The new crew will take over from the Shenzhou-16 astronauts, who have been onboard since May.

Before the launch, the crew was sent off in full pageantry, greeted by government officials and supporters lining the road. The three astronauts waved at the crowd, who held up Chinese flags and flowers. A band played patriotic songs and the crowd sang along.

Since his own trip to space, Yang has sent off many Chinese astronauts on their missions. But Thursdays launch was especially emotional, coming just days after the 20th anniversary of his own historic flight.

Looking at this launch as a veteran, the first thing I see is how far Chinas manned spaceflight has come. Over the past 20 years, it has developed rapidly and made great achievements, Yang told CNN at the Jiuquan center on Wednesday, ahead of the launch.

Completed late last year, the Tiangong  or heavenly palace in Chinese  is one of the two space stations currently in orbit. With a lifespan of 15 years, it could become the only one left when the NASA-led International Space Station (ISS) retires in 2030.

China has already announced plans to expand the Tiangong in coming years, adding three modules to its existing three to allow more astronauts to stay abroad at the same time. Currently, it can house a maximum of three astronauts, compared with seven at the ISS.

Yang said he was thrilled to see a younger generation of Chinese taikonauts taking up the baton. In them, I see the strength of our reserve force, and the hope for the future development of Chinas aerospace industry, he said.

Two of the Shenzhou-17 crew members  Tang Shengjie, 33, and Jiang Xinlin, 35  are new comers, having joined Chinas third batch of astronauts only a little over three years ago.

They are led by Tang Hongbo, 48, who hails from the countrys second batch of astronauts.

Tang, a former fighter jet pilot, was on Chinas first crewed mission to its space station in 2021. His return to the Tiangong also set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflight missions by Chinese astronauts.

ALXA, CHINA - OCTOBER 26: A Long March-2F carrier rocket carrying Shenzhou-17 spaceship with three astronauts aboard blasts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on October 26, 2023 in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China. (Photo by VCG/VCG via Getty Images) - VCG/Getty Images

Chinas space ambition

Tiangong has become a symbol of Chinas ambition and capabilities in space, after Chinese astronauts were shut out of the ISS, a US-led collaboration with Russia, Europe, Japan and Canada, for more than two decades.

Since 2011, NASA has been effectively banned from cooperating with China, after Congress passed the Wolf Amendment due to espionage-related concerns. That exclusion has at least in part spurred Beijing to build its own space station.

China has sought to open up its station to collaboration with international partners, including by hosting experiments from other countries. And that offer will be all the more appealing after the ISS retires, which is scheduled around 2030.

Leroy Chiao, a former NASA astronaut and ISS commander, said NASA has contracted with different private groups to create commercial space stations that its astronauts could operate in. But well have to see how all that goes, he told CNN.

The other nations that participate in spaceflight, particularly human spaceflight, theyve been talking to China. And so if theyre the only game in town, thats the only way that these companies or these countries can participate in human spaceflight, until we get these commercial space stations that are partially funded by NASA into orbit and operational, Chiao said.

Beijing for years has been leveraging its rising prowess as a global space power to offer partnerships and development opportunities to other countries.

As China and the United States intensify their economic, technological and geopolitical rivalry on Earth, space has become a natural extension  and crucial frontier  in their great power competition.

Following the demise of the Soviet Unions space program, the US has enjoyed a period of unparalleled leadership in space. But in recent years, US observers and politicians have warned that Americas dominance could soon be challenged by Chinas fast-growing space capabilities.

That concern has only deepened with a series of important and high-profile Chinese achievements.

In 2019, China became the first country to land on the far side of the moon. A year later, it successfully put into orbit its final Beidou satellite, setting the stage to challenge the US Global Positioning System (GPS). And in 2021, it became the only country after the US to put a functioning rover on Mars.

Chinas ambitions do not end there. Next year, it plans to bring back the first samples ever collected from the moons far side. By the end of this decade, it wants to send astronauts to the moon and build an international lunar research station. A number of countries have reportedly joined onto its planned lunar station, including Russia, Venezuela and South Africa.

Chiao, the retired NASA astronaut, said the main challenge now facing Chinas space program is to get the operational experience that an organization like NASA has.

Weve been operating spacecraft, space shuttle, space station for decades. And we have so much experience and know-how on training astronauts on operating in space  and thats where theyre playing catch up, he said.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
(Bloomberg) -- China is not expected to attend a meeting of national security advisers in Malta this weekend where officials from more than 55 nations will discuss Ukraines drive to build support for its so-called peace formula.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The list of attendees includes the Group of Seven countries, Qatar, South Africa, India and Turkey, according to people familiar with the matter. Some countries like Brazil and Chile are expected to participate online.

Beijings absence would be a disappointment for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy who is trying to build international support for his blueprint for a lasting and just peace.

Ukraine has been aiming to host a summit later this year and getting Beijing on board is seen as crucial to those efforts, the people said, since China is one of the few countries believed to have some influence on Russias Vladimir Putin.

The Malta meeting follows similar gatherings in Denmark in June and Saudi Arabia in August. China sent a delegate to the gathering in Jeddah.

Zelenskiys 10-point formula calls for the full withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine and covers other topics such as returning deportees and prisoners of war as well as ensuring food security and nuclear safety.

His allies see the meetings mostly as a platform for officials from Kyiv to make their case directly to nations that have remained largely neutral on Russias invasion, especially those in the Global South. Buy-in from those countries is seen as a key condition for holding a summit.

As part of the same process, Ukraine has also aimed to set up working groups around the main topics of the formula but those have gained little traction among the nations Kyiv most wants to court through this process.

Still, one of the people said, continuing to engage skeptical nations was fundamental and useful, even if progress was slow.

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(L-R) Chinese astronauts Jiang Xinlin, Tang Hongbo and Tang Shengjie, who will carry out the Shenzhou-17 spaceflight mission, meet the press at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on October 25, 2023 in Alxa League, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China. .

China has revealed its latest crew of astronauts set for a six-month-long mission to the Tiangong space station.

The identities of the Shenzhou 17 mission commander Tang Hongbo, and crewmates Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin, were unveiled in a press conference at the Jiuquan spaceport in the Gobi Desert on Wednesday (Oct. 25) by the China National Space Administration .

The trio are set to launch aboard Shenzhou 17 spacecraft and a Long March 2F rocket from Jiuquan at 11:14 p.m. EDT tonight (or 0314 GMT, 11:14 a.m. Beijing Time on Oct. 26).

three astronauts stand behind podiums with one arm raised in front of a Chinese flag

The trio will reach the Tiangong space station 6.5 hours later. They will be greeted by the three Shenzhou 16 astronauts currently working aboard the orbital outpost.

Tang first flew to space aboard Shenzhou 12 , which marked the first crewed visit to Tianhe , the first Tiangong module to be launched into orbit. Tang and Jiang are from China's third selection batch of astronauts and will be making their first trip to space.

Tang, 48, and his crewmates, both in their early thirties, will be the youngest crew to visit Tiangong. Tang will also be the first astronaut to return to Tiangong.

Related: Watch Chinese astronauts light a match on Tiangong station (video)

A white rocket with strap on boosters rolls out with a blue sky and Chinese flags.

The Shenzhou 16 crew will hand over control to the incoming astronauts and depart for Earth on Oct. 31. Shenzhou 16 astronauts Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao have been aboard since late May .

The Shenzhou 17 crew will carry out a range of tasks and duties, including space experiments. They will also conduct Tiangong's first extravehicular experimental maintenance work during their stay in orbit.

"Currently, space debris is increasing, so the impacts of small space objects on long-duration operational spacecraft are inevitable," Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, said during the press conference.

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"Previous inspection revealed that the space station's solar panel had also been hit several times by tiny objects in space, suffering minor damage, of course which was taken into account during our design," he added.

Lin said that a new module would be sent to Tiangong in the future. "Later, we will launch an extension module in due course, upgrading the basic configuration of the space station from a T shape to a cross shape," Lin added.
US President Joe Biden and Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese walk along the colonnade of the White House (Brendan SMIALOWSKI)

China's top diplomat voiced hope Thursday for more stable relations with the United States after months of turbulence as he paid a rare trip to Washington to prepare a potential visit by President Xi Jinping .

President Joe Biden has invited Xi to San Francisco next month to participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, but he has also stood firm on China in the run-up, keeping up a stream of targeted sanctions and staunchly backing US allies in disputes with Beijing.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi began by meeting Secretary of State Antony Blinken , who told his guest that he looked forward to "constructive conversations" that included a closed-door dinner.

Wang told Blinken, who paid a visit to Beijing in June, that China wanted to "reduce misunderstanding."

China seeks to "expand common ground and pursue cooperation that will benefit both sides so that we can stabilize US-China relations and return them to the track of healthy, stable and sustainable development," Wang said.

Acknowledging that differences will still come up, Wang said that China would respond "calmly, because we are of the view that what is right and what is wrong is not determined by who has the stronger arm or the louder voice."

On Friday, Wang will speak at the White House with National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. No meeting has been announced with Biden, but an encounter is widely expected after Xi received Blinken in Beijing.

US officials have repeatedly spoken of creating "guardrails" with China to prevent worst-case scenarios and have sought, without success, to restore contact between the two militaries.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said Blinken's meeting with Wang was part of efforts to "maintain open lines of communication and responsibly manage US-China relations," but added: "The United States will continue to stand up for our interests and values and those of our allies and partners."

Biden on Wednesday warned China of US treaty obligations to the Philippines, which said that Chinese vessels deliberately hit Manila's boats in dispute-rife waters -- an account contested by Beijing.

Speaking alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Biden vowed to compete with China in "every way according to the international rules -- economically, politically, in other ways. But I'm not looking for conflict."

Tensions have been particularly high over Taiwan, the self-ruling democracy claimed by Beijing which over the past year has launched major military exercises in response to actions by US lawmakers.

China's defense ministry on Thursday accused Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party of pushing the island toward a "dangerous situation of war."

- What are 'stable' ties? -

Robert Daly, director of the Wilson Center's Kissinger Institute on China and the United States, said Wang was likely seeking assurances that the Biden administration will not "embarrass" Xi if he comes to San Francisco, either through harsh new policies or public comments.

"They would like to have a smooth glide path and then a smooth exit from the meeting," he said.

Daly said the two powers had very different views on what "stable" ties meant, with the United States having no intention of changing course from viewing China as a threat and applying pressure.

"By stabilization, we mean that we want to be able to do that without greatly increasing the chance of conflict," Daly said.

"The Chinese view is that stabilization would mean America ceasing this relentless stream of provocations and insults such that China is free to focus on its extremely weak domestic economy," he said.

The Biden administration in recent months has tightened export curbs on chips to China, stepped up military support for Taiwan and issued sanctions targeting individual Chinese over support for Iran's drone program and over production of chemicals that make fentanyl, the painkiller behind an addiction epidemic in the United States.

The United States and China have also traded barbs over the conflict in the Middle East, where Biden has been Israel's foremost ally.

The diplomacy with China comes as the United States enters an election season in which Biden's predecessor Donald Trump, who is seeking to return to the White House, has made hawkish criticism of Beijing a signature policy.

sct/sn
A Chinese fighter jet came within 10 feet of a US Air Force B-52 bomber flying over the South China Sea on Tuesday, according to the US military.

The Chinese pilot flew in an unsafe and unprofessional manner, demonstrated poor airmanship by closing with uncontrolled excessive speed, flying below, in front of, and within 10 feet of the B-52, putting both aircraft in danger of collision, US Indo-Pacific Command said in a Thursday statement. We are concerned this pilot was unaware of how close he came to causing a collision.

News of the latest Chinese intercept comes as President Joe Biden is expected to speak with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi when he visits the White House on Friday, CNN reported on Thursday. It is not clear whether the meeting will be a formal discussion or a more informal meet and greet. Wang is also expected to meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday and national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday.

Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping may also meet on the sidelines of the APEC Summit in San Francisco next month, though neither side has confirmed finalized plans.

The US and China on Thursday both released footage accusing each other of provocative maneuvers in and around the South China Sea, escalating tensions over the disputed waterway.

Chinas Defense Ministry released a video during a regular press briefing, saying the USS Ralph Johnson conducted close-in harassment against a Chinese navy task group doing routine training in the South China Sea on August 19.

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said the video shows that the US side is the real provoker, risk-taker and disrupter. Wu said the US warships actions endanger Chinas national security and added China would take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty.

US fighter jets coming all the way to flex their muscles at our doorstep is the root cause of aviation and maritime safety risks, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said in response to a question for comment on the incident during a regular briefing on Friday.

The Pentagons top official in charge of security in the Indo-Pacific, Ely Ratner, said earlier this month that the US has seen more instances of coercive and risky behavior from Chinese pilots against US aircraft in the last two years over the East and South China Seas than in the entire decade before that.

Since the fall of 2021, we have seen more than 180 such incidents, Ratner said. Its a centralized and concerted campaign to perform these risky behaviors in order to coerce a change in lawful US operational activity.

The Pentagons efforts this year to engage with Chinese military leadership have gone unanswered, and US officials have grown increasingly concerned about the lack of military-to-military dialogue between the countries. Beijing cut off the communications after then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan last year, infuriating Chinese leaders.

Ive asked to speak with my counterparts, the eastern and southern theater commanders now, going on two and a half years, INDOPACOM commander Adm. John Aquilino said earlier this month. I have yet to have one of those requests accepted.

As part of the latest National Defense Strategy, the US has pointed to China as the pacing challenge, capable of competing with America in terms of its military might, economic power and international reach. Beijing already possesses a standing army of more than one million soldiers, the largest navy in the world by number of ships and the largest air force in the region.

Beijing claims indisputable sovereignty over almost all of the South China Sea, and uses its military might to assert its claims of sovereignty in the disputed waters and beyond, including Taiwan.

In 2022, the Chinese military increased its aggressive actions towards the island, including ballistic missile overflights, military aircraft flying into Taiwans aerial identification zone and major exercises near Taiwan. Though Xi has said he is seeking the peaceful unification of Taiwan with China, he has not renounced the use of military force to achieve his goal.

This story has been updated with additional details.

CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story misspelled Adm. John Aquilinos name.

CNNs Kathleen Magramo contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A Chinese fighter jet conducted an "unsafe intercept" of a U.S. Air Force B-52 over the South China Sea earlier this week, the Pentagon said Thursday. Video of the Tuesday night confrontation was released by the Defense Department.

According to the Pentagon, the 38-second video shows the pilot of a Shenyang J-11 coming within 10 feet of the B-52, which is a long-range heavy bomber.

The Pentagon said the Chinese pilot "flew in an unsafe and unprofessional manner" and "demonstrated poor airmanship by closing with uncontrolled excessive speed."

The Pentagon said it was "concerned" that China's fighter pilot "was unaware of how close he came to causing a collision."

Video of a Chinese J-11 fighter jet coming near a U.S. Air Force B-52 over the South China Sea. Oct. 24, 2023. / Credit: U.S. Defense Department

The B-52 was conducting routine nighttime operations when the confrontation occurred, and had limited visibility, the Pentagon stated. Furthermore, the Chinese fighter jet's intercept "violated international air safety rules and norms."

Since the fall of 2021, China's military has initiated more than 180 similar interactions with aircraft of the U.S. military and other nations, according to the Pentagon.

In one such incident on May 26, also over the South China Sea, the pilot of a Chinese J-16 fighter flew directly in front of the nose of an RC-135, a U.S. reconnaissance aircraft. The two aircraft came within 400 feet of each other, and the RC-135 was forced to fly through the J-16's wake turbulence, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command reported.

"There have been a series of these actions directed not just at us but at other countries in recent months," Secretary of State Antony Blinken said at the time.

There have also been confrontations at sea. In June, a Chinese navy ship cut across the path of an U.S. Navy missile destroyer in the Taiwan Strait, with the two ships coming within 150 yards.

China often conducts drills in the Taiwan Strait. It considers Taiwan, an island just off its east coast that's been democratically governed for seven decades, part of its sovereign territory.

 Eleanor Watson and Elizabeth Palmer contributed to this report.

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A Peoples Republic of China J-11 pilot executed an unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force B-52 aircraft, which was lawfully conducting routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace.

The Pentagon has accused the pilot of a Chinese J-11 fighter of conducting an unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress bomber over the highly contested South China Sea . The intercept, the latest in a long sequence involving Chinese jets and aircraft operated by the U.S. military and its allies, comes after the announcement last week that B-52s had been deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, for forward-based Bomber Task Force operations.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfU72DJA_lo\u0026feature=youtu.be

In a media release today, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Public Affairs provided a video of the intercept, which occurred on October 24.

The release states that the J-11 pilot executed an unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force B-52 aircraft, which was lawfully conducting routine operations over the South China Sea in international airspace. During the night-time intercept, the PRC pilot flew in an unsafe and unprofessional manner, [and] demonstrated poor airmanship by closing with uncontrolled excessive speed, flying below, in front of, and within 10 feet of the B-52, putting both aircraft in danger of collision. We are concerned this pilot was unaware of how close he came to causing a collision.

A B-52H assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, arrives at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, in support of a previous Bomber Task Force deployment, in January 2020. U.S. Air Force photo by 1st Lt. Denise C. Guiao-Corpuz



The video certainly shows the Chinese fighter approaching very close to the B-52, although to what degree there was a genuine risk of collision remains debatable. However, the intercept was conducted at night, with limited visibility, adding another level of danger. The J-11 can be seen fully deploying its dorsal airbrake to decelerate and hold station better with the bomber.

The footage was gathered using the Sniper pod mounted under the wing of the B-52, which is assigned to the 2nd Bomb Wing from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana.

Flight trackers have revealed a pair of B-52Hs deployed to Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, conducting a mission over the South China Sea earlier today:

https://twitter.com/AircraftSpots/status/1717392250718863512?s=20

The intercepting fighter is a two-seat J-11 from the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA). Its not immediately clear if it was operated by the PLA Air Force (making it a J-11BS) or if its from the PLA Navy (J-11BSH). Either way, the aircraft is an unlicensed Chinese copy of the Soviet-designed two-seat Su-27UB. The J-11 carries air-to-air missiles, a typical procedure for these kinds of intercepts.

A two-seat J-11 from the Peoples Liberation Army Navy is seen from a U.S. military aircraft during a previous intercept over the South China Sea. On this occasion, the Pentagon says the was conducting a coercive and risky intercept against a lawfully operating U.S. asset in the South China Sea, including by approaching a distance of just 40 feet before repeatedly flying above and below the U.S. aircraft and flashing its weapons. After the U.S. operator radioed the PLA fighter jet, the PLA pilot responded using explicit language, including an expletive. U.S. Department of Defense

The fact that the U.S. Department of Defense has released video from the Sniper pod is interesting in itself, although embedded pod data displayed in the footage has been redacted. However, following the shooting-down of a Chinese surveillance balloon  and other unidentified objects  over North America earlier this year , the Pentagon had said that releasing air-to-air imagery (including even still screenshots) from the Sniper pod was impossible, due to the sensitive technology involved. Clearly, that wasnt quite the case.

https://twitter.com/Aviation_Intel/status/1717607205078540492?s=20

For the time being, however, the Pentagon is more concerned with what it claims is a growing list of Chinas unsafe, unprofessional, and other behaviors that seek to impinge upon the ability of the United States and other nations to safely conduct operations where international law allows  to quote the 2023 China Military Power Report.

On October 17, meanwhile, the Department of Defense released a collection of declassified images and videos that it says provide evidence of a dangerous pattern of coercive and risky operational behavior by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) against U.S. aircraft operating lawfully in international airspace in the East and South China Sea. Since the fall of 2021, the Pentagon says that there have been more than 180 such interactions.

A Chinese Flanker fighter in the course of conducting a coercive and risky intercept against U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft in the South China Sea. According to the Pentagon, the PLA fighter crossed in front of the U.S. aircraft at a distance of 100 yards, forcing the U.S. aircraft to fly through the PLA planes wake turbulence. U.S. Department of Defense

Some of these incidents we have covered before here at The War Zone, including a J-16 fighter that in May 2023  flew directly in front of the nose  of a U.S. Air Force RC-135 surveillance aircraft, forcing it to fly through its wake turbulence  an action known as headbutting or thumping.

A J-16 performs an unnecessarily aggressive maneuver during the intercept of a U.S. Air Force RC-135 aircraft, over the South China Seaon May 26, 2023:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zu2Jwf_eaOY

Other examples include a simulated attack on a U.S. Navy task group and a close-proximity intercept of another RC-135 by a J-11, both in December last year.

A Peoples Liberation Army Navy J-11 performs an unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force RC-135 over the South China Sea, on December 21, 2022:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vIWsnbWBTjI

Prominent incidents from longer ago include a reported unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force WC-135W Constant Phoenix atmospheric sampling jet by a pair of Su-30MKK fighters above the East China Sea, which you can read more about here . Most notoriously, an unsafe intercept by a Chinese J-8 Finback fighter led to the infamous Hainan Island Incident in 2000 , when a collision with a U.S. Navy EP-3 Aries spy aircraft resulted in an emergency landing at a Chinese airbase and a major diplomatic row.

A Lockheed Martin recovery team member repositions the EP-3E Aries II aircraft at Lingshui Airfield, in Hainan, China, on June 18, 2001. The Fleet Reconnaissance Squadron One (VQ-1) aircraft was involved in a mid-air collision with a Chinese J-8 fighter on April 1, 2001 and made an emergency landing on Hainan Island, where it remained until disassembly and removal operations began. The aircraft was disassembled and returned to the United States. Photo Courtesy of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co./U.S. Navy via Getty Images

Intercepts by Chinese aircraft have been going on for decades and are a regular part of operations over the South China Sea, in particular.

But however dangerous or not the most recent interaction, between J-11 and B-52, there does seem to be a pattern of increasingly belligerent behavior by Chinese aircraft. In June 2022, for instance, a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft was reportedly damaged by countermeasures launched by a Chinese J-16 over the South China Sea.

https://twitter.com/MercedesGlobal/status/1533464723374714883

For the United States, its imperative that U.S military assets are able to operate wherever international laws allow. This is of particular importance in the Indo-Pacific region, where Beijing has a very different understanding of what constitutes international airspace and international waters, and what is its sovereign territory.

Ultimately, whether professional or not, the stakes are very high in these interactions over the South China Sea, in particular, due to the simple fact that Beijing claims the vast majority of these waters as its own. This results in longstanding tensions between Beijing, its neighbors, the United States, and its allies.

With China meanwhile embarking on increased militarization of the South China Sea region, most prominently via the construction of man-made island fortresses in these waters, the friction here has only grown.

A Chinese KJ-500 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft on the airfield constructed on the island built out of Fiery Cross Reef in the South China Sea. Ezra Acayan/Getty Images



Coupled with these territorial claims are the lingering concerns over a potential Chinese move against Taiwan, with U.S. officials now speaking fairly openly about the prospect of Beijing seeking to take control of the island sooner rather than later, Beijing having taken an increasingly aggressive stance toward the island in recent years has done nothing to allay those fears.

For the time being, as long as U.S. and allied aircraft continue to exercise their right to operate in international airspace, and as long as Chinas own territorial claims are at odds with this, then similar aerial encounters are likely to remain a regular occurrence.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
Adjunct faculty at Columbia College Chicago have voted to strike, the Columbia Faculty Union said in a statement Thursday, citing the administrations decision to eliminate hundreds of already-enrolled classes, while increasing the size of other classes in an attempt to cut costs.

The college is continuing to put profits above the needs of students, faculty and the institution, the union said in the statement.

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The administrations tactics not only devalue our students education at Columbia, but they lower academic standards and increase adjunct faculty workload, Diana Vallera, professor of photography and president of the Columbia Faculty Union, said in the statement.

After a bargaining session Thursday morning that unfortunately did not go well, Vallera said the plan is to begin the strike Monday, which means participating faculty will be picketing and not teaching classes.

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She said the administration could come back to the bargaining table before Monday and agree to a fair deal with the union to prevent the strike, but she doesnt have high expectations.

Were hoping that well be able to negotiate in good faith and get a deal that is going to protect all of us, Vallera said.

Of the unions approximately 600 members, 81% participated in the vote, with 88% voting to strike.

The union last went on strike in November 2017 over wages and job security.

Lambrini Lukidis, a spokesperson for Columbia College, said in a statement Thursday that the college is disappointed by the unions decision to strike.

We remain committed to good-faith bargaining with the union and hope union leadership will remain at the table with concrete proposals, Lukidis said. We are committed to minimizing impact on instruction where possible, and to protecting students academic progress while meeting our responsibilities to ensure the sustainability of the college to serve its students.

She added that the schools current administration has made $40 million worth of spending cuts, including eliminating 124 positions, many of which were on the administrative side.

Now we must look at the instructional side and continue to look for additional administrative efficiencies as our board of trustees has directed the college to further address deficit, she said in an email. Accordingly, given some decline in enrollment, the college is adjusting its course offering and some class sizes.

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According to a page on the colleges website about the strike, the college and all campus buildings will remain open during a strike. Officials expect that classes taught by faculty members who are not part of the part-time faculty union will be held as normal.

Vallera said nontenure track faculty makes up around two-thirds of the teaching staff at the college.

Just as the adjunct faculty is committed to the students, she said, the students are committed to their teachers.

Our students have been pouring out in support, she said. They see our working conditions directly impacting their learning conditions. Were working together to say no. Enough is enough.

Vallera said the hope is that the strike, which was a difficult decision, will go fast.

sahmad@chicagotribune.com
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - NOVEMBER 12: Chris Stapleton performs onstage during ATLive 2022 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on November 12, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Adam Hagy/Getty Images for ABA)

MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Country music megastar Chris Stapleton is coming to Minneapolis next spring.

On Thursday, the award-winning musician announced he is playing at U.S. Bank Stadium on April 6, 2024.

His All-American Road Show Tour, with Lainey Wilson and Marcus King , will follow the Nov. 10 release of his latest album "Higher".

Tickets go on sale Nov. 3. To find out how to register, click here.
Washington  Most of a $267,000 loan that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas received from a wealthy friend to buy a luxury RV may have been forgiven, according to Senate Democrats.

In 2008, nine years after Thomas' friend Anthony Welters lent him money to purchase a motorhome, the health care executive forgave the balance of the loan, according to a report from Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee.

"While additional documents pertaining to the loan agreement may exist, documents reviewed by Democratic staff suggest that Justice Thomas did not repay a significant portion of the loan principal," the report said.



The allegation comes as Thomas remains under scrutiny for his failure to disclose gifts and luxury trips that he accepted from Republican donor Harlan Crow and amid debate over whether the Supreme Court should adopt an ethics code.

Democrats launched their inquiry after the New York Times reported the loan's existence in August.

When Thomas borrowed the money in 1999, he agreed to pay 7.5% interest a year and fully repay the loan within five years, the Senate report says, citing information and documents voluntarily provided by Welters. In 2004, the loan repayment period was extended another 10 years.

But Welters forgave the balance of the loan in 2008 "in recognition of the payments made by Thomas which Welters characterized as interest only payments that exceeded the amount of the original loan," the report said.

Welters told Thomas in a handwritten note that he "did not feel it was appropriate to continue to accept payments even though he had the right to them," according to the report.

The report said Welters provided only one receipt of payment, which showed that Thomas paid him $20,042 in 2000  the amount of one yearly interest payment.

Nine years of interest payments would have totaled about $180,400.

The committee said it was not given additional documents that could offer more clarity on the agreement.

"None of the documents reviewed by committee staff indicated that Thomas ever made payments to Welters in excess of the annual interest on the loan," it said.

Senate Finance Chairman Ron Wyden of Oregon said the committee wants answers from Thomas, but said he hasn't made a decision about whether to subpoena the Supreme Court justice.

"What we need to know is Justice Thomas' justification for this," Wyden said Wednesday. "Why wouldn't he put this on ethics forms? What has he done with respect to tax laws? Has he paid taxes on this?"

Jack Turman contributed reporting.

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A Senate committee found that Clarence Thomas had a substantial loan forgiven by a wealthy friend in 2008.

Thomas' friend, healthcare exec Anthony Welters, loaned him over $260,000 that Thomas used to purchase a luxury RV.

The findings came four months after Thomas joined a majority Supreme Court opinion striking down Biden's student debt forgiveness plan.

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas ruled this year that Joe Biden was wrong when he tried to forgive college students' loans, but a Senate panel revealed that Thomas had a substantial loan of his own forgiven by a wealthy friend.

Thomas joined a majority opinion in June that struck down the White House's student debt relief plan and found Biden overstepped his authority.

Just two months later  as ethics questions swirled around the conservative justice over his cozy relationship with rich friends  the New York Times reported that Anthony Welters, a healthcare executive who is a close friend of Thomas', loaned the justice money in 1999 and that Thomas used it to purchase a luxury RV that cost $267,230.

And this week the Democrat-run Senate Finance Committee revealed that while Thomas made interest payments on the $267,230 loan, but never repaid a "substantial portion" of it.

The panel found that Welters forgave the loan, writing a note to Thomas in 2008 saying that he would not seek further payments on it. Thomas never paid back any of the principal on the loan, the senators wrote.

The Senate Finance Committee said Thomas didn't report the loan on his ethics forms.

"Regular Americans don't get wealthy friends to forgive huge amounts of debt so they can buy a second home," Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden, the chairman of the committee, said in a statement accompanying the committee's findings. "Justice Thomas should inform the committee exactly how much debt was forgiven and whether he properly reported the loan forgiveness on his tax returns and paid all taxes owed. I have also directed the committee to share our findings with the Judiciary Committee to evaluate the ethics implications of this disclosure."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell said the investigation concerning Clermont County Municipal COurt Judge Jesse Kramig has been closed.

A Clermont County judge won't face any charges after an investigation into allegations that he engaged in sexual activities in the workplace during work time.

Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell said the matter has been closed in an email to The Enquirer Wednesday.

Fornshell was appointed as the special prosecutor to oversee the investigation into Municipal Court Judge Jesse Kramig. Clermont County Prosecutor Mark Tekulve requested a special prosecutor for the investigation in a court filing on July 12, just after Enquirer media partner Fox19 submitted a records request related to Kramig and court administrative assistant Allison Kersker, according to Fox19's reporting.

Two days later, a relative of Kersker's husband complained to the Clermont County Sheriff's Office about Kramig engaging in sexual activities with Kersker in the workplace during work time.

A deputy with the sheriff's office asked the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation to look into the allegations in July, but the bureau declined the request.

Kramig is running unopposed for reelection this November. He could not immediately be reached for comment.

Erin Glynn is the watchdog reporter for Butler, Warren and Clermont counties through the Report For America program. The Enquirer needs local donors to help fund her grant-funded position. If you want to support Glynn's work, you can donate to her Report For America position at this website or email her editor Carl Weiser at cweiser@enquirer.com to find out how you can help fund her work.

Do you know something she should know? Send her a note at eglynn@enquirer.com and follow her on Twitter at @ee_glynn.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Clermont County judge investigation closed per special prosecutor
Humans are not doing enough to tackle the climate crisis, leading the world into a dangerously risky and unfamiliar territory, scientists warn in a new study.

Of the 35 signs useful to track changes in climate, 20 are showing record extremes, including measurements related to Earth's average surface temperatures, fossil fuel subsidies, sea ice levels and global forest cover.

Before 2000, global average temperatures were never 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels  in 2023 alone, 38 days have already exceeded that threshold, scientists found. July of this year was the warmest month, according to the new report, perhaps in the past 100,000 years.

Related: Earth is getting hotter at a faster rate despite pledges of government action

As just one example, the record temperatures, driven by human activity and worsened by recurring climate patterns known as El Nino , are shrinking sea ice in Antarctica at an alarming rate  this year, the continent witnessed its lowest ice levels on satellite record.

The increasingly devastating impacts of climate change have also caused wildfires to be at their worst in Canada this year. The country witnessed the scorching of a staggering 45 million acres of land  the previous record-holder is 1989's season when 19 million acres were charred

The impacts of climate change were not limited to the Americas; in fact, the crisis is even affecting regions not typically prone to climate extremes, the report found. This year, northeastern China suffered from exceptionally severe floods that displaced more than a million people . Heavy rains caused a glacial lake to burst its banks in the Indian state of Sikkim earlier this month, flushing away bridges and roads . A powerful Mediterranean storm washed away entire neighborhoods in the Libyan city of Derna. These are just a few examples, scientists emphasize.

Related Stories:

 NASA searches for climate solutions as global temperatures reach record highs

 Earth is getting hotter at a faster rate despite pledges of government action

 Removing carbon from Earth's atmosphere may not 'fix' climate change

"Life on our planet is clearly under siege," study co-author William Ripple , an ecologist at Oregon State University, said in a statement . "The statistical trends show deeply alarming patterns of climate-related variables and disasters."

"We also found little progress to report as far as humanity combating climate change," he added.

Humans are pushing Earth systems into "dangerous instability," scientists say. By the end of this century, they suspect about a third to a half of the world's population  three to six billion people  may be pushed beyond the "livable region," in that they may experience severe heat and limited food availability.

Humanity is demanding too much from Earth , and politicians must urgently fight for policies that address this demand, as such an effort "will give us our best shot at surviving these challenges in the long run," scientists write in the new study.

This research is described in a paper published Tuesday (Oct. 24) in the journal BioScience.
A Colorado judge on Wednesday denied the latest attempt by former President Donald Trump to dismiss a lawsuit seeking to remove him from the states 2024 ballot because of his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

The decision comes just days before a trial on Trumps eligibility for the ballot is expected to begin.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of six voters in Denver district court last month, says Trump should be disqualified from running in future elections under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which states no person shall hold any office if they engaged in insurrection or rebellion after having taken an oath to support the Constitution. It argues that Trump violated his oath as president through his connection to the Capitol attack.

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington and several law firms filed the lawsuit on behalf of the six voters  four Republicans and two unaffiliated.

In a 24-page ruling, Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace pushed back on Trumps argument that Congress, not courts, should handle questions related to his ballot eligibility. She also sided against Trumps claim that state election officials lack the power to enforce Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

Wallace noted that that clause clearly gives Congress the ability to remove a constitutional disability should a person be disqualified under the provision, but it says nothing regarding what government body would adjudicate or determine such disability in the first instance.

The Court notes, however, it would be strange for Congress to be the only entity that is empowered to determine the disability and then also the entity that is empowered to remove it, Wallace wrote.

Wallace also wrote that the courts ruling holds that states can, and have, applied Section 3 pursuant to state statutes without federal enforcement legislation.

The court will convene Monday to consider whether there is any evidence or argument at trial that provides the Court with additional guidance on whether the issue of presidential eligibility has been delegated to the United States Congress, Wallace wrote.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump has repeatedly denied wrongdoing in his attempts to overturn the 2020 election and his role in the Capitol attack. He previously brushed off the effort in Colorado to bar him from the ballot under the 14th Amendment, decrying it as nonsense and election interference.

Wallaces ruling Wednesday comes after Chief U.S. District Judge Philip A. Brimmer denied Trumps request to move the Colorado ballot case to federal court.

In a four-page order, Brimmer sent the lawsuit back to the same state court in Denver County where it was filed on behalf of the group of voters.

Brimmer, who was nominated by President George W. Bush, said Trump had not properly served Colorado's Democratic secretary of state, Jena Griswold, or gained her consent to move the case. For those reasons, he said, he found Trump's effort to move the case "defective."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A Colorado judge has rejected another attempt by former President Donald Trump to throw out a lawsuit seeking to block him from the 2024 presidential ballot based on the 14th Amendments insurrectionist ban.

The ruling Wednesday from Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace clears the way for an unprecedented trial to begin next week, to determine if Trump is disqualified from returning to the White House because of his role in the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

This is the fifth unsuccessful bid by Trump to throw out the Colorado case, which is one of several pending suits trying to derail his candidacy based on the 14th Amendment.

The 14th Amendment, which was ratified after the Civil War, says US officials who take an oath to uphold the Constitution are disqualified from future office if they engaged in insurrection or have given aid or comfort to insurrectionists. But the Constitution does not spell out how to enforce the ban, and it has only been applied twice since the 1800s.

In a 24-page ruling, Wallace rejected Trumps argument that questions about his eligibility should be handled by Congress, not courts. She also rejected Trumps argument that the Colorado election officials dont have the power to enforce the so-called insurrectionist ban, which is enshrined in Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

The Court holds that states can, and have, applied Section 3 pursuant to state statutes without federal enforcement legislation, Wallace wrote.

She said the trial will focus on several key questions, including whether the events of January 6 constituted an insurrection and whether Trump engaged in insurrection.

Trump has denied wrongdoing regarding the January 6 attack on the US Capitol. He pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges stemming from his attempts to overturn the 2020 election.

His campaign has condemned these absurd lawsuits and said the groups pushing these candidacy challenges are stretching the law beyond recognition.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A Colorado judge rejected the latest attempt by former President Trump to throw out a lawsuit seeking to keep him off the ballot in 2024 by invoking the 14th Amendment.

In her 24-page ruling, Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace rejected Trumps argument that matters of ballot eligibility are limited to Congress, not the courts. Wallace also opposed Trumps argument that state election officials cannot invoke Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

The Court holds that states can, and have, applied Section 3 pursuant to state statues without federal enforcement legislation, Wallace wrote.

Wallaces ruling comes just days before the trial is slated to start Oct. 30.

The suit was filed last month by the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) on behalf of six Republican and unaffiliated voters in Colorado that include former federal, state and local officials. It is part of a wider argument by some legal scholars and lawmakers that Trump is disqualified from the ballot under the 14th Amendment for his alleged actions related to the Jan. 6, 2021, attacks on the Capitol.

Top Stories from The Hill

The group alleges Trump violated the oath of office by recruiting, inciting and encouraging a violent mob that attacked the Capitol on January 6, 2021 in a futile attempt to remain in office.

Section 3 of the 14 Amendment, which is cited in the lawsuit, states that no person shall hold elected office who engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the United States.

Earlier this month, Wallace rejected a separate attempt by Trumps legal team to dismiss the case, ruling that his objections on free-speech grounds did not apply.

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Similar lawsuits also invoking Section 3 have been filed in Minnesota and in Michigan.

Trumps actions leading up to and on Jan. 6, when a mob of his supporters stormed the Capitol in an effort to stop Congress from affirming President Bidens victory, was referred to the Justice Department by a select House panel late last year. The committees investigation spanned months and included witness testimony from dozens of Trump White House officials at the time.

Trump was later indicted by the Justice Department and in Georgia for his and his allies efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and remain in power.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Dover Board of Education addressed the controversy surrounding the "complex legacy of Christopher Columbus " on Tuesday, adopting a resolution that recognized Columbuss role in exploration history but also noted that his story is "fraught with a complex mixture of accomplishments and atrocities."

With two board members absent, the resolution passed by a 6-1 vote following a brief discussion. The board first amended the language to acknowledge that the district already included, and would continue to provide, a curriculum highlighting "both his achievements and the devastating impact of his actions on the indigenous peoples of the Americas."

"Be it finally resolved that the Dover Board of Education commits to promoting an inclusive curriculum that recognizes the contributions of all cultures and peoples, while also acknowledging the dark chapters," the resolution concludes.

The resolution, which "encourages" rather than requires educators to "provide a balanced and historically accurate account of Christopher Columbus," follows in the wake of two other fierce debates about the explorer in Morris County in recent years. Some local residents, conservative activists and Italian-American groups have pushed back against modern accounts that stress the negative consequences of his cross-ocean journey.

Local debate goes viral

Dover High School.

In neighboring Randolph, the school board drew national attention in 2021 after it decided to replace Columbus Day with "Indigenous People's Day" on the district calendar. After hundreds of angry protestors packed its next meeting, the board voted to eliminate all holiday names from the calendar, causing more furor. Eventually, as national TV crews descended, school officials put Columbus Day back on the calendar.

In June 2020, amid the tensions of the COVID pandemic and George Floyd's murder, groups on both sides of the controversy confronted each other at a monument to the Genoan sailor outside the Parsippany municipal building. About 100 pro-Columbus protestors, including members of the local Sons of Italy chapter, stopped afternoon traffic on Route 46 as they crossed the highway, waving U.S. and Italian flags.

Back in Dover on Tuesday, board Vice President Scott Miller cast the lone vote against the resolution, arguing that while he approved of the curriculum, he saw no need for a resolution stating what the district "is doing already."

What Dover board had to say

Board member Krista Seanor responded that "for me, the purpose of this resolution is to highlight our commitment to teaching standards. Teaching our children about the messiness of American history and acknowledging this is important to us and our community."

"If we make a statement about this, do we make a statement about everything we're doing, just because we want people to know?" Miller asked.

"I think maybe, sometimes we do have to reiterate certain things and highlight certain things," countered board member Dahiana Grisales, who introduced the resolution. "I think that's important as a way of being supportive and inclusive."

More: Was Christopher Columbus a murderer? A hero? Italian? Breaking down the myths

Supporters didn't mention any specific incident that prompted the vote. The K-12 district is among the most diverse in Morris County. About two-thirds of the town is Hispanic or Latino and another 9% are Black, according to federal data.

"I think there are times when we can, as board members, use our platform to highlight certain things that are important to our culture, to our community, to our country," added fellow member Benjamin Robles. "I know it's been a hot topic for many years and it's led to some unfortunate events. For me, I think it doesn't do any harm to highlight it in this way."

Former board member Susan Shauer was the lone speaker during the meeting's public session to reference the resolution. She agreed with Miller's skepticism.

"If the board is going to make a stand and make a resolution on every item that's the hot topic of today, you may get the warm fuzzies among each other, and that's great," said Shauer, who sat on the board from 2003 to 2017 and served as its president from 2006 to 2017. "But you're going to miss something. There's going to be that one thing you didn't jump on, and the community is going to notice that."

Shauer advised the board to "stay in your lane, developing and encouraging and providing strong curriculum for the district."

William Westhoven is a local reporter for DailyRecord.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

Email: wwesthoven@dailyrecord.com

Twitter: @wwesthoven

This article originally appeared on Morristown Daily Record: Dover NJ school board revives Christopher Columbus controversy
Pfizer and BioNTech announced Thursday it would soon begin a Phase 3 trial for its combined flu and COVID-19 mRNA vaccine following positive results from its Phase 1/2 study.

Phase 1 and 2 trials are meant to evaluate whether a new drug or treatment is both safe and effective. An official for Pfizer said Thursday they were encouraged by the results theyve seen so far with their combined flu and COVID-19 vaccine. The company said the results indicated the shot had a safety profile comparable to its standalone COVID-19 vaccine.

This vaccine has the potential to lessen the impact of two respiratory diseases with a single injection and may simplify immunization practices for providers, patients, and healthcare systems all over the world, said Annaliesa Anderson, Pfizer senior vice president and head of vaccine research and development, in a statement.

A Phase 3 trial, which can include more participants and looks to determine any potential side effects, will start in the coming months, Pfizer said Thursday.

Pfizer launched its first trial for the combined flu and COVID-19 vaccine last year. Public health experts said at the time that a combined vaccine could enhance vaccine uptake. The federal was seemingly encouraged by the development when the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Pfizer and BioNTech a Fast Track Designation, meaning the review process for the product would be expedited.

Health authorities have regularly recommended that people receive both their flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra did so when he publicly received his updated COVID-19 dose earlier this year.

Fellow mRNA vaccine developer Moderna is also working on a combination flu and COVID-19 vaccine. Earlier this week, the company announced it had dosed its first participant in its Phase 3 trial for its combination shot.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Migrants live in tents along the Dan Ryan Expressway near 5100 S. Wentworth Avenue and outside a Chicago police station on Oct. 17, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

More than 20,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since the first two buses sent by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived at Union Station on Aug. 31, 2022. What began as a political stunt by Abbott to draw attention to strained resources in border cities handling surging numbers of migrants has ballooned into a full-blown crisis. Southern border governments and charities are sending migrants on bus and train to Chicago and other immigration-friendly U.S. interior cities that have no clear plan to care for them.

Though Chicago has created more than two dozen temporary shelters across the city to house migrants in abandoned buildings, there are still thousands sleeping on the floors of police stations or outside of them  and hundreds at OHare International Airport. The migrants, most from Venezuela, often dont have family or connections here, and many come with little or nothing. City and state offices offering social services are overwhelmed.

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[ Stuck in red tape: A Venezuelan migrants labyrinthine pursuit of the American dream for her US-born son ]

Experts say there are no parallels to Abbotts busing program in recent years. According to an Oct. 9, 2023, report from Abbotts office, hes sent over 13,500 migrants to Chicago on charter buses since August 2022 as part of his 2021 border security initiative Operation Lone Star.

And while the busing has cost Abbott millions of dollars, its changing the national conversation about immigration, as governments that have never had to grapple with the strain of mass migration are now forced to face migrants congregating in public parks, begging at grocery store entrances and loitering on street corners. The result is a more universal plea for organization and aid at a federal level  from interior and border cities alike.

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Minal Giri, chair of the Immigrant Child Health Initiative at the Illinois Chapter at the American Academy of Pediatrics, said people are fleeing harm and trudging through jungles, which will have long-lasting implications on their mental and physical health. Many migrants coming to Chicago are families with children.

The kids are the ones who suffer the most because they cant advocate for themselves, she said. Theyre playing in the streets, living in the streets.

What does it mean to be a welcoming city?

Chicago is a sanctuary city, which means city employees can avoid enforcing federal immigration laws.

The citys sanctuary status began under its first Black mayor, Harold Washington, whose Dont Ask policy in 1985 banned city officials from inquiring about citizenship. Mayors have since expanded protections, and state laws have also been enacted to protect immigrants. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has repeatedly said he wants Illinois to be the most welcoming state in the country.

Abbott began sending migrants north as a criticism to President Joe Bidens immigration policies, arguing that liberal Northern cities that profess to be sanctuaries should welcome them.

Texas communities ... should not have to shoulder the unprecedented surge of illegal immigration caused by President Bidens reckless open border policies. I have directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to deploy additional buses to send these migrants to self-declared sanctuary cities and provide much-needed relief to our overrun border towns, Abbott said at the time. Until President Biden upholds his constitutional duty to secure Americas southern border, Texas will continue to deploy as many buses as needed to relieve the strain caused by the surge of illegal crossings.

A bus carrying migrants who turned themselves in to U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers after crossing the border from Mexico leaves for processing in El Paso, Texas, on May 9, 2023, in anticipation of the end of Title 42. The migrant busing program altered the debate over immigration. Gov. Greg Abbott wants to give Texas police expanded powers over border enforcement. (Todd Heisler/The New York Times)

Abbott also sent migrants to Denver and New York, which have dealt with their population differently. New York has limited the amount of time migrant families with children can stay in city shelters, and Denver has bought one-way Greyhound and Amtrak tickets for migrants to get to their final destinations, including Chicago.

Why are migrants coming to the U.S.?

In recent years, record numbers of people are trekking from South America to the United States  across a dangerous jungle known as the Darien Gap.

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Soledad Alvarez Velasco, a social anthropologist and human geographer at the University of Illinois at Chicago, said the number of people traversing to the U.S. continues to grow, due mainly to unprecedented levels of unemployment following the pandemic, crime and climate change.

Its a new situation in terms of migration. Its not a war, but its a forced displacement, she said.

Laura Cruz-Acosta, strategic communications director for the city of El Paso, Texas, one of the largest border cities in the nation, said El Paso experienced two surges of Venezuelan migrants at the beginning of this year and last. What distinguishes Venezuelan migrants from other refugees, she said, is their lack of resources and often their absence of familial ties in the United States.

A migrant woman nursing her baby while waiting to board a city bus to an overnight shelter in San Jacinto Plaza, the main square of El Paso, Texas, on Sept. 26, 2023. The West Texas way station, long accustomed to migrants arriving from Mexico, has begun to buckle under the pressure of thousands upon thousands of people coming over the border, day after day. (Ivan Pierre Aguirre/The New York Times)

Though migrants come from other Central and South American countries, most migrants arriving in Chicago are from Venezuela  a country that used to have a vibrant economy, according to Michelle Ellner, Latin America campaign coordinator of the nonprofit CODEPINK.

Venezuelans are not used to migrating. Theyre used to, on the contrary, receiving people, she said.

Experts point to Venezuelas plunging oil prices and the leadership of far-left President Nicolas Maduro as reasons for the mass migration of 7.3 million people, the second-largest internal displacement crisis in the world. After Maduro took office in 2013 and Venezuelas economy declined sharply shortly thereafter, citizens became more reliant on welfare assistance from the government like monthly food handouts.

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Migrants who have arrived in Chicago say they couldnt make more than $25 a week in their country of origin. Many Venezuelans have fled to surrounding countries, but thousands make their way to the United States, seeking economic opportunities.

A street market in Caracas, the Venezuelan capital, on Jan. 8, 2023. Unable to build safe or stable lives in other parts of South America, many people are making the perilous journey to the United States. (Adriana Loureiro Fernandez/The New York Times)

Maduros social programs  funded in the past by oil revenues  have been cut by unilateral sanctions by the United States over nearly two decades, according to a report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Alena Douhan. The U.S. imposed harsh sanctions on Venezuela following Maduros 2018 reelection, which many Western governments didnt regard as legitimate.

The United States in October 2023 agreed to ease some sanctions on Venezuela, which some hope will stabilize the country and the economy. But the series of harsh sanctions have led to a devastating effect on social programs serving the entire population, said Adrienne Pine, an anthropologist and professor at California Institute of Integral Studies.

If you look at the statistics themselves, it becomes abundantly clear that Venezuela only starts to be a net out-migration country in the year following the implementation of the sanctions, Pine said.

[ A year in, Chicagos migrant crisis exacerbated by City Hall and state delays, hefty contracts and questionable decisions ]

Why are migrants coming to Chicago?

Migrants are people who have left their countries of origin by choice in search of a better opportunity, while immigrants are people who leave a country with the intention of taking up permanent residence. Most migrants arriving in Chicago are asylum-seekers, or people in search of protection due to dangers in their home country.

The U.S. government currently allows up to 30,000 qualifying individuals per month  from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela  to come to the United States for a period of two years.

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Some migrants arrive illegally, crossing between border entry points. Migrants who arrive legally  by scheduling an appointment through an official mobile application used by Customs and Border Protection to inspect and document arrivals and departures in the United States  enter shelter systems in border cities. They often have little knowledge about where they are or where they should go.

Migrants seeking to turn themselves in to federal agents in Eagle Pass, Texas, on Sept. 21, 2023. (Veronica G. Cardenas/The New York Times)

Those who can will connect with family in the United States, but many decide to relocate to cities in the U.S. because of social media or by word-of-mouth from people who have already arrived. Government-funded shelters, faith-based groups or nonprofit organizations in border cities will often help them arrange and plan transportation to their destinations.

Many arriving in Chicago say they came because they heard it was easier to work here and people were receiving benefits and shelter space.

Migrants arent just coming to Chicago on chartered buses. Theyre also being sent on sponsored tickets from Denver and planes by Catholic Charities in San Antonio, while some arrive to the city after pooling their own resources, hearing Chicago is friendlier than other cities.

What happened in the early days of the crisis?

In late August 2022, after learning that the first bus was about to arrive, then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot promised to find shelter for and take care of incoming migrants. But no one could have predicted just how much migrants would strain Chicagos infrastructure and resources.

Migrants are given cheeseburgers while sitting on a CTA bus before being taken to a Salvation Army shelter after arriving at Union Station on a bus with approximately 60 others from Texas on Aug. 31, 2022. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

At various times over the first year, the crisis led to conflict between the city and state about lack of funding. There have been repeated calls for more federal resources.

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[ Chicago expecting even higher pace of migrant arrivals as mayor, governor press White House for more help ]

In the first days of busing, facing steadily increasing numbers of migrants, Chicago had trouble finding workers to staff city-run shelters, especially for overnight shifts. Lightfoot immediately piggybacked off a contract the state signed during the COVID-19 pandemic with an out-of-state company called Favorite Staffing.

And as numbers of migrants climbed, the city opened more shelters  some in historically disinvested neighborhoods, raising pushback from residents. Though the number of migrants arriving in Chicago slowed through the winter, in January 2023 the first migrants began to sleep on the floors at police stations as city shelters had run out of space.

[ Migrants arriving in Chicago sleeping in bus shelters and police stations as community steps in to help ]

What is Mayor Brandon Johnson doing?

Mayor Brandon Johnson was sworn into office in May 2023 and inherited a quickly thrown-together shelter system about to experience another surge. The city was facing another large increase in migrants, many staying in police stations waiting for shelter placement.

Though migrants have come in waves over the first year, numbers of migrants have increased substantially in Chicago throughout 2023  with Gov. Abbott threatening to send 20 to 25 buses a day in October 2023 and new shelters popping up around the city almost weekly.

Johnsons administration immediately extended the citys contract with the vendor Favorite Staffing.

A recent Tribune investigation into the company revealed its high price and overworked staff, and the current administration said it hoped to move away from the expensive contract and hire locally. But on Oct. 23, 2023, Johnsons administration renewed the controversial contract and signed a $40 million extension through October 2024.

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Contractors working at the Inn of Chicago unload supplies outside the shelter on Oct. 3, 2023. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)

The city estimates that costs associated with migrants since August 2022 could reach above $360 million by the end of 2023.

[ Migrants arriving in Chicago are more than just a number. Here are some of their stories: I prayed every step of the way. ]

Meanwhile, mutual aid networks have stepped in to help feed, clothe and provide resources to migrants staying at police stations.

Faith-based groups are also pooling their resources. But no volunteers are currently allowed inside city-run shelters, and questions remain about what will happen as winter approaches and thousands of migrants with no place to go are now sleeping outside.

Johnsons 2024 budget includes only $150 million in funding for migrants, less than half of what likely will have been spent on migrant assistance over the past year. And with colder months ahead, the mayor is moving forward with plans to put up winterized base camps across the city under a nearly $30 million contract with GardaWorld Federal Services and its subsidiary Aegis Defense Services.

The city hasnt provided concrete details on those plans.

What is temporary protected status, and why is it important?

Almost all migrants who have come to Chicago over the past year have one goal  to work. But many arent legally able to.

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So they scrounge for what they can find, trusting strangers who pick them up from police stations and shelters to bring them to construction sites where they spend their days painting or roofing.

In late September 2023, in response to pressure from officials in Chicago and elsewhere, the Biden administration allowed nearly 500,000 Venezuelans to be able to apply for temporary work permits, which in theory will help migrants be self-sufficient and move out of shelters.

And while many immigration advocates cheered the decision, those working with migrants on the ground pointed out some serious obstacles.

Yanira Arias, national campaigns manager for Alianza Americas, a Chicago-based transnational organization rooted in Latino immigrant communities in the United States, said temporary protected status applications, which migrants must fill out to apply for the work permits, are long and expensive. Temporary status allows migrants with unsafe conditions in their countries of origin to reside and work legally in the United States.

But just one application asks for pages of documentation. In addition to filling out the temporary protected status application, a work authorization application for an adult costs more than $400. Migrants need to visit a local immigration field office to provide biometrics, which costs another $85.

Migrants who cant afford the application can request a fee waiver, and some organizations have initiatives that help provide funding for migrants who demonstrate they cant pay the hefty fees.

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The next step for community-based organization is to figure out how to make sure everyone can access a work permit. This is the hope of many Venezuelans in Chicago. They want to work. They want to have a permit to work, Arias said.

[ New deportation flights to Venezuela concern immigration advocates as Mayor Johnson continues his call for more aid ]

Where does Chicago stand now?

In early October, President Biden announced he would resume deportation flights to Venezuela. The federal government had not been deporting people to Venezuela because of severed ties with the South American countrys government.

The first deportation flight from Texas to Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, happened about two weeks later. The flights will prioritize criminals or people who just came across the border illegally. They will also be for Venezuelans who lost their asylum bids and were given final removal orders.

State and local officials say it is too early to tell how the deportation flights will affect the migrant population in Chicago and Illinois.

El Paso Communications Director Laura Cruz-Acosta said she has seen a decline in migrants crossing at the border since that federal policy was passed. But there are still thousands of migrants just on the other side of the border waiting to cross, said Beatriz Ponce de Leon, Chicagos deputy mayor of immigrant, migrant and refugee rights, on a phone call with the Tribune from a trip to El Paso with a delegation from Mayor Johnsons team.

Its a very temporary law. We dont know when numbers will start growing again, she said.

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Meanwhile, in Chicago, social services are buckling under increasing numbers of migrants.

Hundreds of migrants from Venezuela line up outside the Illinois Department of Human Services office in Sauganash most weekdays, hoping to be seen by the program serving foreign-born victims of trafficking, torture, or other serious crimes, known as the VTTC. The program provides migrants access to food, cash and medical benefits, but state officials have told the Tribune it wasnt meant for this many people.

The Resurrection Project, a nonprofit organization in Pilsen that helps defend immigrant rights, has the same staff they did before numbers of migrants increased.

Theres now a lot of people who are interested in applying for or need to apply for immigration benefits, on top of all of the other people who already live here who need legal assistance, said Katherine Greenslade, director of the immigrant justice legal clinic at The Resurrection Project.

Jose Antonio Hernandez, a Venezuelan migrant and barber, cuts the hair of fellow migrant Francisco Ramos at an encampment outside the 2nd District Chicago police station on Oct. 17, 2023. (Antonio Perez/Chicago Tribune)

Greenslade said the immigration process is especially difficult for migrants who live in temporary shelters and dont have a permanent address to receive follow-up documents.

Keith Southam, immigration attorney and founder of Southam Law LLC, said the asylum process can take years. It is so confusing and bureaucratic that some migrants avoid applying for asylum altogether.

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And so one thing Im seeing with a lot of these Venezuelan migrants is theyre not touching the whole process at all, Southam said. And theres so many of them that theres no way to enforce it.

The city has pointed to resettlement as their long-term solution to addressing the crisis, with a government assistance program covering up to six months of housing costs for migrants staying in city-run shelters. But Chicago has resettled just over 5,500 migrants since December, and more than three times that amount have arrived since last year.

How can Chicagoans help?

Karina Ayala-Bermejo, president and CEO of Instituto del Progreso Latino, said the nonprofit is asking Chicagoans for drop-off donations of new or unused clothes and essential items in front of their building, 2520 S. Western Ave. She suggested residents can also donate to the organizations Rapid Response Wish List on Amazon or on its website.

New Life Centers, which helps families move into their new apartments with money from the state, is accepting gently used furniture to the Chicago Furniture Bank. Furniture can be dropped off at the bank, 4801 S. Whipple St., or arrangements can be made for furniture to be picked up.

Cradles to Crayons Chicago is also partnering with New Life Centers to provide clothing and essential items to new arrivals. There are multiple drop-off locations around the city.

One Warm Coat is leading drives to collect gently worn coats and outerwear  hats, earmuffs, gloves, mittens, scarfs  to migrant sleeping outside in the winter. President and CEO of One Warm Coat Beth Amodio encourages people to register to hold their own coat drive at their workplace, place of worship, neighborhood school and more, or provide a monetary donation.

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To support the Greater Chicago Food Depositorys efforts to provide meals at shelters, people can also donate to their food bank.

There are a number of mutual aid organizations listed on the citys website, for those who want to be more directly involved in volunteer efforts. Ayala-Bermejo said there is an especially high need for people who can provide health care support.

All of us need to be ready to go to maximize our coordination. All of us can figure out a way to be a part of the solution to this, she said.

nsalzman@chiagotribune.com
Getting compensation from an airline after a delayed or canceled flight can be challenging.

Flight expert Gilbert Ott has a few tips for getting your money back if you're entitled to it.

Ott said to skip the sob story and the AI chatbot. Focus on proof and don't give up, he added.

Five years ago, Gilbert Ott flew from London to New York on a budget airline. The flight was delayed until the following day because of mechanical issues, he told Insider. European Union rules entitled him to full compensation.

The airline didn't pay Ott back at first, but they didn't know who they were dealing with.

Ott flies 200,000 miles a year, and a decade ago, he started a blog called God Save the Points focused on travel efficiency. He also consults airlines on a case-by-case basis on work including more transparent rewards and improved passenger communication.

Fliers like Ott have plenty of reasons to be frustrated, with global airline delays and cancellations rising for years without hope of a turnaround. Insider previously reported that these problems stem from staffing, including a lack of pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers, and extreme weather conditions exacerbated by climate change.

Although airlines are juggling complexities passengers may not always see, Ott said that we, as travelers, often have valid complaints.

"We know what gets in our way, what screws up our flights, and what frustrates us with pricing or transparency," he said. "And quite often, we're spot on."

Compensation rules for delays and cancellations vary by country. For example, aside from circumstances when the airline is not at fault, such as weather or air traffic control, airlines in Europe are required to compensate passengers for delays more than three hours long. However, in the US, there are no federal rules regarding compensation, so the airlines each have their own rules.

So once you have a handle on what happened with your flight and what local rights you have to compensation, it's time to get in touch with the airline.

Travelers talk to US Airways Customer Service. Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Skip the AI chatbot

Never use chatbots to communicate with the airline, Ott recommended.

"So few are actually human-driven, and all of them are going to advise you to end up contacting somebody if you have a real problem," he told Insider. "People waste so much time and energy with airlines, all for it to be read by AI and instantly denied until you send it seven more times."

Instead, Ott recommended reaching out to the airline via email and copying an executive, like a CEO.

"You want to make sure it gets to somebody who will read it," he added. "A CEO's email address will generally be monitored by several different people, and they will each be able to act as a liaison on behalf of leadership."

Ott said nearly every airline issue he's had resolved was sent to an executive-level email address.

"These issues were not tied to my blogging career  just as a Joe Schmo who flew in your airline," he said.

Skip the sob story

When you're drafting your email, Ott said to focus on the facts about what went wrong and less on the emotions.

"It's one thing to say, 'I was going to my wedding, and you ruined my wedding.' But that's one line," he explained. "We don't have to go into, 'The bridesmaids showed up, and I wasn't there,' or 'The cake was there, and I wasn't there,' or 'The hotel that I was supposed to go to charged me for a night.'"

Ott said these details don't help. Instead, explain what happened, provide proof, and then very quickly state how it impacted you, according to Ott.

"Say, 'I would like to understand how you're going to make this right. Otherwise, I don't plan to fly again,'" he added.

Get proof

When an airline is responsible for compensating you, providing proof is key to getting your money back.

"The more you can share or ensure that you're right, the better," Ott told Insider. "That's where documentation comes in."

For example, if your flight is canceled while you're at the gate, ask a gate agent to write up the incident, he suggested. They'll likely say no, but it's worth trying.

"I don't blame them. Most of them are contract employees and really don't feel like they deserve to hear from people the way they do," Ott said.

He also suggested documenting the flights that did take off that day by using free online tools like Flight Aware. This documentation will be helpful if the airline tries to claim that the cancellation or delay is due to extraordinary circumstances. For example, if the airline claims the flight didn't take off due to weather at the arriving airport, proof that other flights to the same destination did depart could help your case.

Keep pushing

Even with an executive email and proof of the issue, Ott said it can be challenging to get compensation from an airline unless you follow up multiple times.

When Ott contacted the budget airline that delayed his flight to London five years ago, emailing once with proof wasn't enough  his claim was initially denied, he said. After several emails, Ott told the airline that he would reach out to AirHelp, a service that legally represents passengers all the way to court for a fee or a cut of the earnings. He said the threat was enough for them to approve his claim.

"Don't just take their advice of being ineligible, because most of the time it's just an automated lie designed to flick fleas," Ott advised. "The more people an airline can convince that they aren't due compensation, the more money the airline saves."

So if an airline denies your claim, let them know that you intend to pursue it as far as you have to, even if that means complaining to the Department of Transportation or taking the company to court.

"It's amazing how quickly things work out once you do that," he added.

Read the original article on Insider
Winter weather rolled through Washington mountain ranges Tuesday night with 1 to 5 inches of snow falling above 3,000 ft.

The early October snowfall was a bit of a surprise and contrasts the El Nino winter experts are anticipating this year.

An El Nino winter generally means warmer and drier conditions.

We have had these sorts of weather conditions in late October. They are unusual but certainly, they do have precedent said Washington States climatologist, Nick Bond.

He also said that this early snowfall is not necessarily an omen for the coming winter.

Even though it is unlikely, significant snow events have happened during an El Nino winter in the past.

We have had some recent years with exceptions during the El Nino of 2018 2019 in February 2019. We had a very significant cold, with plenty of snow in the Puget Sound lowlands and continuing cold in eastern Washington that occurred in February, said Bond.

According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, data currently suggests above-average temperatures. These conditions will also affect precipitation.

It is a more complex forecast, said Reid Wolcott with NWS Seattle. If you go back and look at the data. Even though El Nino years typically have less precipitation overall, there are more rainy days in strong El Nino years like were looking at this year. So, there may be less rain overall but more rain days.

Currently, the forecast shows a 95% chance of this El Nino lasting from January to March with a 71% chance it remains an El Nino winter.
A Massachusetts court issued a second arrest warrant for Aaron Pennington on Wednesday, this time for the murder of his wife Breanne. Court records show the timing of Aaron Pennington and his children leaving the house that morning, plus details of what police found on his cellphone.

In a murder warrant filed by the Worcester County District Attorneys Office in Gardner District Court on Wednesday, officials said a search of Aaron Penningtons phone turned up a note that had been written on the device Saturday evening, the night before his wifes body was found in the couples Cherry Street home.

According to investigators, the note found on the device read: Dont say anything. Be quite (sic) If she wakes up just say youre getting nasal spray. Get on side of bed  very close proximity to head. Put hole in her head.

Law enforcement has been searching for Aaron Pennington since Sunday morning.

Updates from Friday, Oct. 27: Dive team called: Search for Aaron Pennington expands to Lake Wampanoag in Gardner

What details the court documents reveal: Murder warrant issued for Gardner murder suspect

The murder warrant for Pennington was issued Wednesday, according to the Worcester District Attorney's Office. The charge was filed in Gardner District Court.

Athol Police say there is no shelter in place

'Unfortunately, there is a rumor going around in the Town of Athol that there is a shelter in place. THERE IS NO SHELTER IN PLACE," Athol Police announced on its Facebook page. "There is no threat to the people of Athol. We understand that emotions are high with the events that have occurred in other towns over the past few days, but please do not listen to this rumor."

The announcement by Athol Police was made at 3:50 p.m. after rumors were circulating that Aaron Pennington had been seen in town.

GoFundMe started for Pennington children

Breanne Pennington, a California native, was the mother of the couple's four children, who are in the custody of the Massachusetts Department of Children and Family Service. She would have celebrated her 31st birthday on Friday.

Jeffrey Hull of Missouri started a GoFundMe account for the Pennington children on Thursday. Breanne Pennington's uncle said her extended family is working to create a plan for the children.

The children, who are ages 2, 5, 7 and 9, were is in the custody of the Massachusetts Department of Family Services on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Worcester County District Attorney Joe Early.

"As an extended family, we are trying plan for the future of her four children. We are trying to create a loving home for them. Please help us provide for their physical, emotional, and educational needs as they recover from this traumatic event," reads the message on the GoFundMe page.

Live coverage from Wednesday: Murder warrant issued for suspected wife killer Aaron Pennington

There is a goal of $100,000.

Breanne Pennington's aunt posted a message on Facebook Thursday.

"My brother Jeff and his wife will be raising these four children. They will need counseling services and much more to heal from this traumatic event. As a family we will come together to support these children and give them the tools they need to overcome the events they witnessed," it reads in part.

"Every detail that comes to light casts another layer of violence and incomprehensible actions that led to Breanne's demise," it continued.

Why law enforcement thinks Aaron Pennington has a firearm

The first arrest warrant was issued out of First District Court of Northern Worcester for Pennington on Monday. As part of that warrant, Aaron Pennington is charged with possession of a firearm without a license to carry.

Breanne Pennington was known to have a firearm at the residence for her protection, according to the arrest warrant.

Neither of the Penningtons were licensed to own a firearm in Massachusetts.

Searching Camp Collier lands in Gardner

Police said the area searched on Tuesday and Wednesday includes about 200 heavily wooded acres in the area of Camp Collier.

During the day on Wednesday, police could be seen using K-9s to search around some of the homes on Kelton Street, and requests for checks of nearby barns could be heard over the scanner as the search continues for the fourth day.

Aaron Pennington

What Monday's court records say: Breanne Pennington, slain Gardner woman, planned to move to Texas with kids

At about 5 p.m. Wednesday, police stopped the search for the second night in a row at dusk.

"Unit commanders will continue to assess intelligence and investigative developments to determine when and how to resume ground/air search operations," the state police said on Wednesday evening. "At this point, barring the development of new information, no widespread ground search is planned for tomorrow. We will update when appropriate."

What we saw on Monday night: Gardner Police lift shelter in place near Kelton Street after hours in search for Pennington

Camp Collier is a 585-acre Scout camp in Gardner near the town line with Ashburnham. The area is owned by the Monadnock Trust.

On Tuesday, Gardner Police Chief Eric McAvene said investigators were specifically interested in any footage recorded between the Old County Road area in Ashburnham and Rt. 101.

Aaron Pennington's car was found Monday near Camp Collier in Gardner

Penningtons car was discovered about 1,500 feet off Kelton Street by a bowhunter on Monday and reported to police about 5 p.m., according to Early.

Thank God that hunter  I dont know when or where we might have found that car, but there was a bowhunter going through the area and he found the vehicle and he immediately notified the Gardner police, Early said, adding that the vehicle was not visible from the road.

GARDNER - Mass. State Police troopers gather at the intersection of Kelton Street and Camp Collier Road as the search continues for Aaron M. Pennington Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

The find triggered a five-hour search in the area of Kelton, Wheeler, Raymond, and Stone streets on Monday. The shelter-in-place was lifted about 9:50 p.m. as police called off the search for the night.

What should you do if you see Aaron Pennington or have video footage to show?

Anybody who hunts these areas, could you check your trail cams to see if anything came across? McAvene said.

Anyone who sees Pennington should call the Gardner Police Department at 978-632-5600 or the Massachusetts State Police at 508-829-8326. Police are warning the public not to approach Pennington as he is considered armed and dangerous.

Residents in the area were also asked to share videos from doorbells and other surveillance cameras with law enforcement.

Description of Aaron Pennington

Pennington, 33, of Gardner, is described by the Worcester DA as a white man with blond hair, blue eyes. He is 6 feet, 2 inches tall and approximately 175 pounds.

Aaron Pennington of Gardner

Pennington is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. Early said investigators were in contact with the military to find out what kind of outdoor survival training Pennington, an Air Force veteran, might have undergone while in the service.

That is part of the equation, Early said on Tuesday.

Who is investigating?

The investigation is ongoing by state police detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorneys Office and the Gardner Police Department.

What police say happened to Breanne Pennington

On Sunday, Gardner police received a 911 call from the Penningtons' Cherry Street neighbor Kerri McDermott, who had requested assistance after the Penningtons four children came over to her house scared because they could not find their father, Aaron Pennington, and their mother, Breanne Pennington, was in their bedroom crying, according to the arrest warrant.

Shortly before 9:30 a.m., first responders found Breanne Pennington lying in bed in an upstairs bedroom with obvious signs of death from an apparent gunshot wound to the face, according to the arrest warrant.

Breanne Pennington

Investigators learned that the couple has been dealing with marital issues for quite some time, according to the arrest warrant.

Worcester County District Attorney Joe Early said their four children, ages 2, 5, 7 and 9, were in the custody of the state Department of Children and Families as of Sunday evening. They were safe.

Investigators spent several hours at the address Sunday. The house, decorated for Halloween, is in a residential neighborhood off Elm Street.

What do we know about Aaron Pennington?

Aaron Pennington suffers from mental issues and had threatened suicide, according to the arrest warrant.

Court records show the wife had been planning to move to Texas and leave her husband behind.

According to his LinkedIn page, Pennington is a senior supervisor in manufacturing/operations at Raytheon Missiles & Defense in Andover. His biographer also lists him as serving in the U.S. Air Force starting in 2015.

On his Facebook account, Pennington is listed as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 634 Pearl St. in Gardner.

Pennington lists himself as originally being from Fontana, California.

What do we know about Breanne Pennington?

The couple has been married for 10 years, according to Aaron's Facebook page.

According to Breanne Penningtons Facebook page, her nickname is Breezy and she is from Riverside, Calif.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Aaron Pennington of Gardner murder suspect at large; GoFundMe started
A group of pro-Israel students at Cooper Union was locked inside a library Wednesday as a pro-Palestine protest took place outside, according to reports. Those who were in the Manhattan library throughout the demonstration told CBS New York that school staff decided to lock them in out of safety concerns as demonstrators chanted and banged on the doors. It was tense. People were nervous, one student said. They were specifically acting very aggressive in those spaces where outwardly Jewish students were sitting. A representative for the school said the students chose to remain in the librarywhich was closed for around 20 minutesuntil the protest ended. One student said they were eventually escorted out by security. Representatives from the pro-Palestine protest said in a statement that the protest was against Cooper Union itself over the schools one-sided stance and participation in the occupation of Palestine and that they do not condone antisemitism. At a news conference on Thursday morning, John Chell, chief of patrol for the New York Police Department, stated police officers had attended the protest in plainclothes, as requested by the college. There was no direct threat. There was no damage, and there was no danger to any students in that school. he said.

Read it at CBS New York

Read more at The Daily Beast.
Authorities in Massachusetts found a chilling note on a cellphone belonging to a man wanted in connection with his wifes murder, according to a report. Aaron Pennington, 33, is still being sought after his 30-year-old spouse, Breanne Pennington, was found dead on Sunday morning. An arrest warrant said first responders found her in a bed with an apparent gunshot wound to the face. According to WCVB-TV, authorities searched the contents of Aarons phone on Tuesday and discovered a note dated 7:04 p.m. on Saturday. Dont say anything, the note reportedly reads. Be quite [sic] If she wakes up just say youre getting nasal spray. Get on side of bed  very close proximity to head. Put hole in her head. The station further reported that those who know the couple say Breanne had been planning to move away with their four children and that Aaron had previously had mental health issues and threatened suicide.

If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing or texting 988.

Read it at WCVB-TV

Read more at The Daily Beast.
A teenager died in a single-vehicle crash along Illinois 127 south of Nashville in Washington County, and a man suffered life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Robert Trevor Green, 17, of Flora died in the crash Sunday morning, according to a news release from Washington County Coroner Mark Styninger.

Green was driving a Kia sedan north on Illinois 127 when it left the roadway and became airborne, Styninger said.

The car struck the north side of the Locust Creek embankment.

Austin Reid, 21, of Louisville, Illinois, was a passenger in the Kia and suffered life-threatening injuries, Illinois State Police said in a news release.

No other information about the crash was released by investigators.
Georgias legislature will literally have to return to the drawing board after a federal court ruled that the states discriminatory congressional maps broke the law.



The new maps, which must be redrawn before the 2024 election, will be required to include one Black-majority federal congressional district, as well as two new Black-majority districts in Georgias state Senate and five new Black-majority districts in its House.

Thursdays ruling consolidates three cases brought against Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger , which argued that Georgias political leaders were not adequately representing the Black communities that fueled the states population growth over the last decade.

In a 516-page order, U.S. District Court Judge Steve Jones ruled against Raffensperger, deciding that the GOP-drawn maps violated the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Jones noted that although Georgia has made great strides in increasing the political opportunities of Black voters since the law was enacted, the Court determines that in certain areas of the State, the political process is not equally open to Black voters.

For example, in the past decade, all of Georgias population growth was attributable to the minority population, however, the number of majority-Black congressional and legislative districts remained the same, Jones wrote.

The state is expected to appeal the decision, though that effort may fall flat for Republicans. Similar attempts to save GOP-gerrymandered maps have failed in Florida and Alabama.

Other legal challenges to congressional maps are underway across the country, including in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah, reported the Associated Press.
Philippine forests scored a victory for survival thanks to the countrys Supreme Court and a group of community members fighting to save beloved trees crucial to the regions environment.

In what is being called by Indigenous communities a landmark ruling against invasive nickel mining, the court has issued the industrys leaders operating there a writ of kalikasan, translated as writ of nature, according to Eco-Business.

The writ mandates the mining officials to respond to environmental concerns coming from the Philippine populace. Its part of the effort to stop mining there altogether, Mongabay reported.

The governments Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Ipilan Nickel Corporation, and Celestial Mining are among the entities that received the writ.

Its important news, as Mongabay reported that community members have been fighting since 2005 to stop forest destruction they said is caused by mining-related activity in Palawans Mount Mantalingahan Protected Landscape, a place of sacred and ecological significance. A group representing indigenous people sent the industry leaders a cease-and-desist order on the same day the writ was issued, per Mongabay.

The prompt action of the Supreme Court has truly given us renewed hope and inspiration to continue what were doing, former Palawan Mayor Mary Jean Feliciano told Mongabay.

Feliciano was suspended from office during her fight with the miners several years ago and now serves as vice mayor. A photo shared by the environmental news site shows a huge stack of trees, part of 7,000 cut in the Mantalingahan.

Feliciano was successfully able to stop mining operations for a short time in 2018. However, industry officials intend to continue efforts to gather nickel through responsible mining in areas outside the protected mountain range, Mongabay reported.

Nickel is a common element on Earth. According to the Nickel Institute, the planet has about 350 million tons of it, which is used to make stainless steel, coatings, batteries, and electronics.

Palawan is an example of the intersection of modern living and natural tranquility. Unfortunately, the latter is sometimes sacrificed to serve the former.

Biodiversity scientist Aldrin Mallari sees the writ as the right of nature to exist  given importance.

He told Mongabay that Typhoon Rai destroyed 311,000 acres of nearby northern forests in 2021. That makes the portions of the southern forest lost to the nickel enterprise all the more devastating, according to the watchdogs. Mallari sees those forests as a refuge for homeless creatures displaced by Rai and a safeguard for biodiversity.

What we need to do is to connect these pockets of biodiversity to the south, he said to Mongabay.

As of late September, the Philippine Supreme Court was in recess as residents awaited a response from the mining industry, according to Mongabay.

Join our free newsletter for cool news and actionable info that makes it easy to help yourself while helping the planet.
Three precious Sumatran tiger cubs have been born at the Nashville Zoo for the first time, Tennessee officials said.

Anne, a 7-year-old Sumatran tiger, gave birth to the cubs the evening of Oct. 20, the zoo announced in a statement. Anne was brought to Nashville earlier this year from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as part of a species survival plan to encourage the critically endangered cats to breed, the Nashville Zoo said.

As a first-time mom, Anne is behaving perfectly as she and the three cubs bond and remain nestled in the privacy of their indoor den, zoo officials shared in the Oct. 23 Facebook post.

The zoo confirmed Anne was pregnant in late August after she was paired with a male Sumatran tiger at the zoo named Felix. The animal team trained her to participate in ultrasounds so they could monitor her pregnancy, which typically lasts around 100 days, officials said.

Each birth is vital for the conservation of this species, zoo officials said.

There are fewer than 600 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, experts estimate. Sumatran tigers are native to Indonesia and are critically endangered, facing threats such as poaching and habitat loss, the zoo said.

They are the smallest of the living tiger species and have darker orange fur than other subspecies to help them blend into their tropical habitats better, according to the International Tiger Project.

The World Wildlife Fund estimates that up to 80% of Sumatran tiger deaths come from poaching the animals for trade.

Congratulations Anne and Felix!! one Facebook user wrote. Your little cubs are beautiful!! The Sumatran Tigers are my favorites at the Nashville Zoo and Im looking forward to seeing the babies.

All the cubs are nursing and will likely stay behind the scenes until they get a little older, the zoo said.

So beautiful and precious! another person wrote on Facebook.

Elephants befriended each other in heartwarming Tennessee video. Weeks later, one dies

Rare sea creatures with fins shaped like Mickey Mouses ears spotted in New Zealand

Loving mama giraffe gives birth at California zoo. Watch her amazing little baby

African tortoise that vanished in 2020 is recovered in Florida. How far did it walk?
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) called the new House speaker MAGA Mike Johnson on Wednesday and onlookers suggested the moniker was, unfortunately, a good fit.

MAGA is ascendant, Gaetz told Steve Bannon on the ex-Donald Trump advisers podcast.

If you dont think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement and where the power in the Republican Party truly lies, then youre not paying attention, Gaetz said, referring to the ousted former House speaker.

Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, was elected speaker Wednesday following three weeks of chaos after Gaetz prompted the removal of McCarthy (R-Calif.) from the role.

Gaetz was angry that McCarthy worked with Democrats to avert a government shutdown and did not acquiesce to other demands of a hard-right faction of lawmakers.

Republicans cycled through three nominees before managing to agree on Johnson, who holds extreme views on rights for women and LGBTQ+ people and led a push to throw out the 2020 election results on Trumps behalf.

Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) suggested Gaetzs name for Johnson was appropriate.

MAGA Mike Johnson, he wrote on X (formerly Twitter). House Republicans words, not ours.

MAGA Mike Johnson. House Republicans words, not ours. https://t.co/bKlFCokwSh  Rep. Don Beyer (@RepDonBeyer) October 25, 2023

Tara Setmayer , senior adviser to the anti-Trump group Lincoln Project, called on the media to stop burying the lede about MAGA Mike, adding that he would do the bidding of the extremist agenda.

Heymainstream mediastop burying the lede about MAGA @RepMikeJohnson



 MAGA Mike is a leader of the Jan 6th objectors, a Trump ally and will do the bidding of the illiberal populist MAGA extremist agenda.



This is not someone worthy of the Speakers gavel. https://t.co/gHd5Zr9zg9  Tara Setmayer  (@TaraSetmayer) October 25, 2023

Politico Washington correspondent Rachael Bade said that nickname is gonna stick.

MAGA Mike  that nickname is gonna stick. https://t.co/rj5fsdrIBr  Rachael Bade (@rachaelmbade) October 25, 2023

And former Rep. Joe Walsh (R-Ill.), another Trump critic, said Gaetz was correct, calling Johnsons election a victory for the Florida lawmaker.

Gaetz is correct. Mike Johnson, unlike McCarthy, is MAGA. Its a MAGA party. Johnson as Speaker will be a victory for Gaetz. https://t.co/uYqUTDKBIA  Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom) October 25, 2023

Other journalists and commentators zeroed in on Gaetzs remark about where the power in the Republican Party truly lies.

Matt Gaetz keeps being right and its kind of annoying, former Republican National Committee spokesperson Tim Miller wrote.

See some of the other commentary below.

Its strange to say, but Matt Gaetz is  correct about this https://t.co/Th81TyVmdZ  Jeff Timmer (@jefftimmer) October 25, 2023

Hes not wrong. (About the power & ascension part.) Hes wrong about the rest. And just about everything else always. But this is the biggest power grab for Trumpist since they won the White House. The #AmericanInsurgency has won the Speakers gavel. & #OurEnemiesAreCelebrating. https://t.co/WZkRipyzW3  Paul Rieckhoff (@PaulRieckhoff) October 25, 2023

The biggest problem with Mike Johnson is not that he's an election denier.



It's that Republicans acquiesced to the demand that ONLY an election denier can lead them, and anyone (like Emmer) who voted to certify the election is disqualified. So yeah, the extremists won. https://t.co/K2H3blSVlp  Tom Malinowski (@Malinowski) October 25, 2023

Well this seems like a nice ad for Democrats https://t.co/neZlFfcXho  Karen Schwartz (@pithywidow) October 25, 2023

Johnson is Gaetz without the baggage. https://t.co/Z0eEFs89sf  Don Moynihan (@donmoyn) October 25, 2023

This should be in every political ad the Democrats run in any competitive race against an incumbent next year https://t.co/fJukGWgBy1  Akiva Cohen (@AkivaMCohen) October 25, 2023

He is literally TELLING YOU. And hes right. https://t.co/ekx7016t5b  Hannah Drake (@HannahDrake628) October 26, 2023
A former Chicago police officer is sitting in Cook County Jail following a whirlwind week that included him being convicted of domestic battery, quitting the force and being newly charged with illegally entering his ex-girlfriends home and attacking her new boyfriend, according to prosecutors.

But before Korey Giles began fighting with his romantic rival, an off-duty Cook County sheriffs deputy, prosecutors said he took nude photos of the man as he slept in the bed with his ex-girlfriend, also a Chicago police officer.

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Authorities said Giles sent the photo to someone, though it was unclear exactly who.

Giles, 29, of Englewood, faces felony home invasion and nonconsensual dissemination of a private sexual image charges, according to court records. A Cook County judge approved a prosecution request to detain Giles during an Oct. 14 hearing at the Leighton Criminal Court Building. In court, prosecutors served Giles with a protective order barring him from contacting the woman.

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Giles resigned from the Chicago police effective Oct. 11, according to a department spokesperson. Authorities didnt give a reason for the resignation, but domestic battery is one of a number of decertifiable misdemeanors that can led to an officers removal following conviction, according to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board.

The day before he resigned, Giles was found guilty of misdemeanor domestic battery, but acquitted of the more serious aggravated domestic battery related to an incident with the same woman last year.

While they share a child, prosecutors said Giles and the woman were no longer dating. In a prior domestic battery case, court records described their relationship as an intimate, non-monogamous relationship, according to court records.

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 >

Still, Giles had a history of entering the womans Ashburn home without permission and exhibiting jealousy, authorities said.

Last October, Giles allegedly entered the womans home with a key and becoming irate because she was talking to another man. He allegedly took the womans phone, struck her about the face and body and pulled her off her bed by her legs, prosecutors said. Their child, 2, was present during the incident, records show. Two witnesses, relatives of Giles, tried to restrain him as he choked the woman.

While that criminal case was still pending, prosecutors said on Sept. 25 that Giles again illegally entering the womans home and went into her bedroom where he took nude photos of the 38-year-old deputy in bed.

After snapping photos, the couple was awakened and a fight broke out between the men, ending with Giles striking the deputy and shoving him down stairs at the home, authorities said. The deputy suffered an injury to his left arm, according to Giles arrest report.

Giles resignation and new criminal case reflects a reversal of fortunes for the South Side cop who hailed from a family of officers and who two years ago, received a department commendation as member of a team of officers who thwarted a freight yard burglary in 2019.

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Following his most recent arrest, prosecutors in the just-finished case filed a petition for bond revocation for violating terms of his release in that case.

Giles remains in Cook County Jail, but is scheduled to return to court next week.
The United States allowed Irans foreign minister to visit New York City this week to address the United Nations, drawing the ire of critics who insist the Biden administration should never have allowed him into the country.

"Iran-backed terrorists have attacked our servicemembers and are currently holding Americans hostage, but the Biden administration has granted a top Iranian official a visa  welcoming this regime on U.S. soil with open arms," Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, wrote on social media platform X.

"The appeasement must end," she added.

Fox News Digital learned that Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian was coming to New York as early as Monday for a U.N. Security Council meeting and asked the State Department why he was being allowed in. While he did not attend that meeting, he arrived last night. Iran's state-owned Islamic Republic News Agency broadcast video of the minister at the Millennium Hilton hotel across from the United Nations.

ISRAEL WITHHOLDING VISAS FOR UN OFFICIALS AFTER HAMAS COMMENTS: TEACH THEM A LESSON

A State Department spokesperson told Fox News Digital that, "As host nation of the U.N., the United States is generally obligated under the U.N. Headquarters Agreement to issue visas to representatives of U.N. member states to travel to the U.N. headquarters district."

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"The United States takes seriously its obligations as host country of the U.N. under the U.N. Headquarters Agreement," the spokesperson added, stressing that "Visa records are confidential under U.S. law."

Jason Brodsky, the policy director for the non-profit United Against Nuclear Iran and a non-resident scholar at the Middle East Institute, wrote on X that Amirabdollahian "has the blood of Americans on his hands" and slammed the Biden administration for issuing him a visa.

"The U.S. refused a visa to his predecessor Javad Zarif in 2020," Brodsky noted, underscoring that the U.S. does not have to issue a visa to a visiting dignitary "for security, terrorism and foreign policy concerns."

"There is precedent for this and it should have been exercised in this case," Brodsky wrote. "An outrage."

NOT ONE TAXPAYER DIME FOR GAZA UNTIL HAMAS FREES ALL THE HOSTAGES

President Ronald Reagan's administration set a precedent by not granting a visa to PLO leader Yasser Arafat. Arafat had requested to visit the United Nations in New York, but his request was refused over national security concerns in 1988.

The exceptions Brodsky mentioned include the Trump administration denying then-Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif a visa in 2020, but more famously when President Reagan, citing national security concerns, denied then-Chairman of the Palestine Liberation Organization Yasser Arafat a visa to visit the U.N. in 1988.

Reagans Secretary of State George P. Shultz cited "associations with terrorism" as the main factor in denying Arafat his visa, The Washington Post reported at the time.

BIDEN ADMIN SET TO ALLOW IRAN UN SANCTIONS ON BALLISTIC MISSILE PROGRAM TO EXPIRE: HUGE VICTORY FOR TEHRAN

While the Biden administration has said Iran was not directly involved in the planning of the Hamas terror attacks into Israel, it has continued to stress that it does hold Iran responsible for funding Hamas and enabling the group. Iran reportedly maintains nearly two dozen proxy groups around the Middle East, including the Houthis in Yemen, who recently tried to launch an attack on Israel that the U.S. Navy stymied.

The Biden administrations relationship and dealings with Iran have come under severe scrutiny following a Hamas terrorist attack on Israel, with many accusing Bidens approach of Iran appeasement as part of negotiations for a renewed nuclear deal as a factor in allowing the attack to occur.

Fox News Digitals Brooke Singman contributed to this report.





Original article source: Critics slam Biden admin for allowing Iran's FM to visit UN: 'blood of Americans on his hands'
Houston mayoral candidates John Whitmire, currently a state senator, and Sheila Jackson Lee, a U.S. representative. Credit: The Texas Tribune | Graeme Sloan/Sipa USA via REUTERS

As Houston grapples with crime, a looming budget crisis and growing housing unaffordability, the race to lead the nations fourth-largest city has mostly come down to two longtime fixtures in local politics.

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee and state Sen. John Whitmire, both Democrats, lead a crowded field of 16 other contenders in the Nov. 7 race to succeed Mayor Sylvester Turner , who is term-limited.

With 2.3 million people, Houston is Texas most populous city and the most diverse city in the country. It is solidly Democratic, but the mayors office is nonpartisan.

Armed with endorsements from big-name Democrats like Nancy Pelosi, Jackson Lee has sought to rally her partys base, vowing to stand up to MAGA Republicans. Whitmire has relied on a bipartisan coalition while also defending his Democratic credentials.

I dont take a backseat to anyone on being a Democrat, Whitmire said in an interview Monday. Ive been a Democrat my entire career  and a good one.

Jackson Lee was not made available for an interview, but after this story's initial publication, her campaign provided a statement where she pitched her candidacy.

"The reason so many Democrats from here in Houston and across the Country are supporting me is because they know I am the only front runner who will address kitchen table issues and protect our great City from [extremists'] agendas and policies," Jackson Lee said.

Early voting started Monday, and the homestretch is already off to a dramatic start. Jackson Lee on Monday addressed a leaked audio recording of her going on an expletive-filled rant against a staffer. The same day, Jackson Lees campaign chair reported to police he was attacked at his office by a person the campaign called a known conspiracy theorist. And on Tuesday, Jackson Lee falsely claimed the endorsement of former Mayor Lee Brown, who backed Whitmire in February.

University of Houston polling identified Whitmire and Jackson Lee as the undisputed frontrunners. In the latest survey, Whitmire led Jackson Lee 34% to 31%, within the margin of error. All other candidates combined got 12%. But a considerable amount of voters  22%  were undecided.

Whitmire has led Jackson Lee by double digits in a hypothetical runoff, and large pluralities have said they would never consider voting for her.

Jackson Lee is pushing hard to crystallize the choice for Democrats ahead of a likely runoff. She has reeled in endorsements from national Democratic stars and run TV ads tying Whitmire to Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and former President Donald Trump.

Jackson Lee has done so at a large financial disadvantage. Whitmire raised nearly twice as much as Jackson Lee from July to late September and outspent her by a factor of more than five to one, according to the latest round of campaign finance reports. By the end of the period, Whitmire had $6.9 million in the bank left to spend and Jackson Lee had $902,000.

Both have served in their seats for decades, and Whitmire is the dean of the Texas Senate. He made clear as far back as 2021 that he would run for mayor, while Jackson Lee jumped in in late March and shook up the race.

They have divvied up the lions share of local endorsements in the race, but Jackson Lee has reeled in more big-name supporters from outside the city. She has the backing of Pelosi, Beto ORourke and Hillary Clinton, who is visiting Houston on Friday for a rally.

While other candidates have not broken through, there are some other well-known local names in the race. They include Gilbert Garcia, the former chair of the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County; Robert Gallegos, a current City Council member; and Jack Christie, a former council member who once chaired the State Board of Education.

The issues

Houstons next mayor will have to grapple with major challenges amid the regions robust population and economic growth.

One of the most significant: a looming budget crisis. Houston is facing a sizable shortfall as federal COVID-19 relief dollars expire in the coming years and the citys expenses grow faster than its revenue.

But for likely voters, crime remains the top priority even as Houstons overall rate has been on the decline.

Like nearly every major U.S. city, Houston saw a considerable spike in violent crime, including homicide, during the COVID-19 pandemic. This year, overall crime is down about 5%.

The overall drop in the citys crime rate hasnt been enough to calm voters. Some 83% of likely voters in the mayors race told pollsters that crime should be the next mayors top priority, according to a recent poll from the Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston.

Crime is at the forefront, even though Houston's crime numbers have come down considerably since the pandemic, said Renee Cross, the Hobby Schools senior executive director.

Whitmire chairs the Senate Criminal Justice Committee. If elected mayor, he plans to create a collaboration with all law enforcement agencies in Harris County, get more aggressive with recruiting police officers and speed up processing of violent offenders.

I believe in being tough and smart on crime, Whitmire said. You hold people accountable that put a gun in your face. The people that are nonviolent low-level offenders, you work with them.

Among Whitmires plan to tackle crime: bringing 200 Texas Department of Public Safety troopers to help Houston police officers patrol the streets amid a law enforcement shortage. The idea has been tried elsewhere, most recently in Austin. But enforcement efforts during that partnership have fallen disproportionately on people of color.

Whitmire said the DPS partnership was reducing crime in Austin  a more progressive city  until politics got in the way. He suggested he would not let that happen in Houston.

Other candidates have balked at Whitmires plan.

I cant think of a worse idea, Garcia told the Houston Chronicle editorial board.

But a majority of likely Houston voters  65%  support Whitmires idea, according to a recent Hobby poll.

He comes in as mayor, on day one, theres gonna be some changes, said Donald Baker, spokesperson for a pro-Whitmire group, Protect and Serve PAC. You dont get that same feeling with Sheila Jackson Lee.

In an Oct. 10 debate hosted by local news station KPRC, Jackson Lee said she would like to see officers target high-crime areas using data analysis and increase officer visibility, among other ideas.

It is absolutely unacceptable for our families to feel unsafe, Jackson Lee said.

Working with the state

The next Houston mayor will take the seat amid high tensions with the states Republican leadership.

The GOP-controlled Legislature has targeted the Houston region over issues of voting access and public safety spending as the area emerged as a Democratic stronghold over the last decade.

State lawmakers also passed a sweeping bill that reins in city officials abilities to make local laws  prompting Houston officials to sue. And legislators forced Harris County to transfer all election-related duties from its elections administrator to the county clerk and the county tax assessor-collector.

Whitmire has signaled a willingness to repair the fraught relationship with the states Republican leadership.

"The city of Houston has to work with Austin, Whitmire said in a debate. We have valuable state resources that we're not receiving because of the poor relationship between City Hall and the Capitol."

That willingness to work with Republicans at the state level has provided fodder for Jackson Lee.

I will also be someone who is willing to stand up to a state that wants to overturn our elections [and] wants to ensure that our City Council can't do their job by passing laws, Jackson Lee said at a debate.

Whitmires support from Republicans has prompted wariness in progressive circles.

He has often been there for the LGBTQ+ community, said Austin Davis Ruiz, president of the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus PAC. After a transgender woman was killed last year in a neighborhood in east Houston, Whitmire was the only elected official to show up to a public vigil, Ruiz said.

But Whitmires close relationship with Republicans  and ties with GOP donors like Houston restaurateur Tilman Fertitta  was a key concern among members of the PAC when they voted to endorse Jackson Lee, Ruiz said.

It's no secret that the city of Houston has been under attack, that Harris County has been under attack by the Legislature, Ruiz said. I think for the members that were there during that meeting, it really came down to who's going to be the best candidate to help fight against the Legislature.

The politics

While their debate appearances have been mostly cordial, Jackson Lee has gone on the attack against Whitmire on TV. She has aired an ad that groups Whitmire with Abbott, saying they both want to make access to guns easier, and asserting that Whitmires backers are Trump Republicans who want to make abortion a crime.

On guns, Jackson Lees ads cite Whitmires support for Senate Bill 16 in 2017, which significantly reduced the fee to get a license to carry a handgun. A majority of Senate Democrats joined Republicans to pass the bill at the time.

Whitmire has countered with TV ads featuring state Sen. Carol Alvarado and U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia rebutting the attacks, saying he has always supported a womans right to choose and fought to keep guns off our streets.

In the interview, Whitmire did not shy away from his bipartisan support, saying people from across the partisan spectrum are supporting him because they know Ive got a record of accomplishment. As for some of the specific GOP donors, Whitmire said they are the same people [Jackson Lee] had supporting her years ago.

One big example is Fertitta, the local billionaire who is backing Whitmire. Fertitta is a prominent Trump supporter who is hosting a fundraiser for the former president Nov. 2 in Houston, five days before the mayoral election. But Fertitta also hosted a fundraiser for Jackson Lees congressional campaign in 2019, according to an invitation.

Jackson Lee has also accused Whitmire of being absent while she fought for federal relief dollars after Hurricane Harvey in 2017. Its a line of criticism that recently got a boost from Turner, the current mayor. He has not endorsed in the race, but tweeted Monday that only Jackson Lee and two other mayoral candidates  not Whitmire  helped him during federally declared disasters.

While other candidates do not appear to have made a dent, they have trained their fire on Whitmire. Garcia has aired a TV ad that criticizes Whitmire for boasting that he has worked with nine mayors  saying thats the problem and calling him a career politician.

Lane Lewis, a former Harris County Democratic Party chair who supports Whitmire, said the attacks on the candidate do not bother him because Lewis has been in the room when [Whitmire] has stood up, particularly on social issues.

In a time that we are so grossly polarized on so many issues, Lewis said, Whitmire provides an olive branch where we can remain true to ourselves, our progressive ideals, while still attracting reasonable conservatives that want to get things done.

Whether the partisan scuffles will register with voters remains to be seen.

I don't know that that really resonates so much with voters who are going to the polls to vote for mayor and City Council, said Janice Evans-Davis, who previously worked in the Turner and Annise Parker administrations. They want their garbage picked up, they want crime numbers to look good.

Disclosure: University of Houston has been a financial supporter 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.
There are 14 people running for Miami-Dade County sheriff, but a new website is seeking another candidate: former Miami police chief Art Acevedo .

Backed by filmmaker Billy Corben with encouragement from a Democratic pollster and others, draftchiefacevedo.com seeks to drum up support for Acevedo as a vindicated anti-corruption crusader ready to lead county law enforcement.

To have the sheriff that was run out of town ride back into town  thats a very exciting prospect, Corben said.

READ MORE: Miami-Dades sheriff race draws GOP-heavy crowd with a dozen candidates  and counting

Acevedo accused city commissioners of firing him in 2021 after six months on the job over his reform efforts, including targeting corruption within Miami government. City management cited public gaffes that cost Acevedo support of officers, including a claim that a Cuban mafia runs Miami.

Since his forced exit, corruption allegations resulted in the arrest of Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla on charges he sold his vote in exchange for political contributions and gifts, and a $63 million verdict against Commissioner Joe Carollo in a lawsuit alleging misuse of city inspectors against a Miami business. Mayor Francis Suarez also drew interest from federal investigators over his $10,000-a-month job for a local developer.

READ MORE: We need help in Miami: Former police chief begged for federal investigation

In a brief interview, Acevedo, a Cuban-American now working as interim police chief in Aurora, Colorado, said hes been fielding requests to run for sheriff since he arrived in Miami two years ago after serving as Houstons police chief and hasnt ruled out a candidacy.

Ive been asked that before. Ive been asked by a lot of people. Its not anything Im pursuing, Acevedo said Wednesday. My philosophy in life is never say never.

Acevedo no longer owns real estate in Miami-Dade, but Florida law only requires sheriffs live in the state, according to a 2018 opinion from Floridas Elections Division.

READ MORE: Fired police chief sues Miami, claims commissioners tried to weaponize cops against enemies

Fourteen candidates have already filed, with the majority either officers or supervisors with the Miami-Dade Police Department, which would be absorbed by the new Sheriffs Office. So far, its a field crowded with Republicans, with only three Democrats in the race.

The sheriff election is partisan, meaning Democrats and Republicans compete in primaries for their partys slot on the November ballot. Acevedo said he last registered as a Democrat when he was living in California.

Fernand Amandi, a Democratic pollster backing the draft effort, said the public recruitment campaign



could by years end measure whether theres enough support for Acevedo to drop his current police job and move back to Miami. He said he spoke to Acevedo about two weeks ago.

People are either going to instantly connect with him and his message or theyre going to say: Ho hum,  Amandi said. But I think theyll quickly say: Hell yes. 
The creator of Netflixs hit series The Crown has responded to critics of the show, including Dame Judi Dench and former prime minister John Major, suggesting they probably feel rather stupid after a new season is released.

Ahead of the release of the shows fifth season last year, Dench, 87, wrote an open letter calling on the streaming platform to include a disclaimer that The Crown is a fictionalised drama, accusing its makers of crude sensationalism.

Meanwhile, the UKs former prime minister Major, 80, described the series as a barrel-load of nonsense in response to scenes featuring conversations between him and the late Queen Elizabeth II.

The shows penultimate season focused on her reign in the 20th century, after 40 years on the throne, and included an episode titled Annus Horribilis  the phrase Queen Elizabeth used to sum up her feelings about the year 1992 that saw Camillagate, a fire at Windsor Castle, and the end of the marriages of three of her four children.

Reacting to the criticism levied against depictions of the royals in The Crown, its creator Peter Morgan told Variety the shows detractors instantly fall quietafter the release of a new season.

Morgan, 60, said: All the criticism about The Crowns attitude to the royals comes in anticipation of the show coming out. The minute its out and people look at it whether its Judi Dench or John Major  they instantly fall silent.

And I think they probably feel rather stupid, the British screenwriter added.

Dench accused The Crown makers of crude sensationalism in an open letter last year (Getty Images)

The Independent has contacted a representative of Dench for comment.

Prior to season five of The Crown being released on Netflix last November, the Oscar-winning actor criticised its makers for including cruelly unjust portrayals of members of the royal family.

These include a fictitious scene in which then-Prince Charles (Dominic West) tries to persuade Major, who served as prime minister from 1990 until 1997, to force his mother to abdicate the throne.

The five-time BAFTA honoree also took offence at a scene in which Charles suggests the late Queens parenting was so deficient that she might have deserved a jail sentence in her letter to Netflix.

This is both cruelly unjust to the individuals and damaging to the institution they represent, the Skyfall star wrote.

Elizabeth Debicki as Diana, Princess of Wales appearing in the fifth season of The Crown (Netflix/PA) (PA Media)

Elsewhere in the interview, Morgan said he felt sympathy for the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, who stepped down as a senior member of the royal family before relocating to the US with wife Meghan Markle in 2021.

The couple, who currently reside in Montecito, California, have publicly spoken about their life at The Firm, and the decision to leave it all behind, on several occasions  including while filming their Netflix docu-series Harry & Meghan.

The duke also made several bombshell revelations about his familys alleged treatment of Markle and relationship with his brother, the Prince of Wales, in his memoir Spare.

Morgan said he hadnt read Harrys book because I didnt want his voice to inhabit my thinking too much, adding: Ive got a lot of sympathy with him, a lot of sympathy.

The sixth season of The Crown will be released in two parts, with the first four episodes becoming available on Netflix on 14 November and the last six episodes premiering a month later.

It is set to sensitively portray the death of the former Princess of Wales Diana, and will also cover the 2005 wedding of King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The Crown creator Peter Morgan has responded to rumours Princess Diana's 'ghost' will appear in season six.

Part one of the Netflix show's sixth and final instalment, which premieres on November 16, will depict the events running up to the devastating Paris car crash that claimed Diana's life in 1997.

Earlier this month, Daily Mail claimed that the series will see Diana's 'ghost' appear before Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth.

However, Morgan has now said that he "never imagined it as Diana's 'ghost' in the traditional sense".

Netflix

Related: The Crown shares new look at Diana, William and Harry ahead of final season

He continued: "It was her continuing to live vividly in the minds of those she has left behind.

"Diana was unique, and I suppose thats what inspired me to find a unique way of representing her. She deserved special treatment narratively."

Elizabeth Debicki reprises her role as Diana in part one of the final season, which will portray the late royal's budding romance with Dodi Fayed (played by Khalid Abdalla), as well as the historic moment in which she walked across a minefield in central Angola.

Netflix

Related: The Crown producers promise show has "delicately" handled Princess Diana's death

Part two, which arrives on December 14, will see the Queen (Imelda Staunton) celebrate her Golden Jubilee, as well the marriage between Charles (Dominic West) and Camilla Parker Bowles (Olivia Williams).

The final batch of episodes will also follow Prince William (Ed McVey) and Kate Middleton (Meg Bellamy) as they begin their whirlwind romance after meeting at St Andrews University.

Given season six covers events from 1997 to the late 2000s, we'd also expect to see some glimpses of Tony Blair's (Bertie Carvel) time as Prime Minister.

The Crown seasons 1-5 are streaming on Netflix. Seasons 1-4 are also available on DVD and Blu-ray.

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Lori Vallow, the so-called cult mom who was sentenced to life in an Idaho prison for the murders of her children and another woman, will soon be on her way to Arizona to face charges in the death of her fourth husband, Charles Vallow.

The tangled web of mysterious deaths surrounding Lori Vallow and her cult leader husband Chad Daybell, who also faces similar charges, began to unravel in November 2019 when a search began for her missing children, Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow, while they were living in Arizona.

The following June, their bodies were found buried in Daybells backyard in Rexburg, Idaho. Vallow has since been convicted of their murders and conspiring to kill her husbands former wife, Tammy Daybell. She received three consecutive life sentences.

On Wednesday, Idaho Gov Brad Little signed an extradition warrant allowing Arizona officials to temporarily take custody of Vallow so she can face more criminal charges.

Lori Vallow is seen in a mug shot taken after her sentencing in Idaho in July (Idaho Department of Corrections)

It is hereby agreed by the undersigned, the Governor of the State of Idaho and the Governor of the State of Arizona, that Lori Vallow  will be extradited pursuant to this agreement from the State of Idaho to the State of Arizona for trial, the executive agreement states.

The State of Arizona may obtain custody of the said fugitive  and the said fugitive may be transferred back and forth between the State of Arizona and the State of Idaho.

Kay Woodcock, Charles Vallows sister, responded to the news on X formerly Twitter, Praise the Lord!!!! Governor signs Lori Vallow Daybells extradition to Arizona #justiceforcharles. FINALLY!!!

This photo of Tylee Ryan and her brother Joshua JJ Vallow with their uncle Alex Cox was taken days before they were killed (Handout)

Ms Woodock and her husband Larry, who are also JJ Vallows grandparents, have been waiting years for justice for their loved ones. Last week, an Idaho judge signed an order releasing his body to them more than three years after the 7-year-old was smothered and found buried in a shallow grave still wearing his red pyjamas, according to court documents.

1567 The number of days keeps increasing as we fight for justice. FINALLY!!!!, she wrote in a statement to East Idaho News. We are not sure when she will be moved but are thrilled with progress. Simply knowing its in motion, leaves us feeling relieved and happy.

Vallow still lived in a Phoenix suburb with her children, 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow and then-16-year-old Tylee Ryan, when they went missing.

Extended family members had also grown worried about the missing kids, and police launched a multi-state investigation looking for the children.

She was estranged from her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, at the time, and he had written in divorce filings that she claimed to be a goddess sent to usher in the Biblical apocalypse.

Charles and Lori Vallow pictured together. Lori is charged with conspiracy to murder Charles in Arizona (Provided)

Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Vallow Daybells brother, Alex Cox, that summer. Cox told police he acted in self-defence, and he was never charged. Cox died later that year of what investigators said were natural causes.

Shortly after Charles Vallow died, Lori Vallow and her kids moved to Idaho. Prosecutors said she made the move to be closer to her then-boyfriend, Chad Daybell, and that together the two plotted to remove any obstacle to their happiness.

Two weeks before they got married on a beach in Hawaii while the children were missing, Daybells then-wife, Tammy Daybell, died of what was initially believed to be natural causes.

But authorities became suspicious when Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell married just two weeks later, later determining Tammy Daybell had been asphyxiated.

Chad and Tammy Daybell before her death in October 2019 (Facebook)

Meanwhile, another person connected to the family reported an attempted shooting. Brandon Boudreaux, who had recently divorced Vallow Daybells niece, said someone driving a Jeep had shot at him outside his home. The Jeep matched the description of one that had been purchased by Charles Vallow before his death.

The Arizona indictment charges Lori Vallow with conspiring to kill Charles Vallow and Mr Boudreaux.

Jim Archibald, who represented Lori Vallow in the Idaho trial, said he was not representing her in the Arizona case and that she had not yet been appointed an attorney there.

Ive talked to the public defenders in Phoenix, so theyre waiting for her to get there, and when she gets there theyll assign an attorney, Mr Archibald said. He declined to comment to the Associated Press on the Arizona charges.

Lori Vallow remains incarcerated in Pocatello Womens Correctional Center as of Wednesday afternoon. If found guilty of the conspiracy charges in Arizona, she could face another life sentence.

Chad Daybell has been in the Fremont County Jail since he was arrested in June 2020. He is set to stand trial 1 April on murder charges in Ada County, where his wife was tried. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Cult mom Lori Vallow to be sent to Arizona to face new charges

Lori Vallow, the so-called cult mom who was sentenced to life in an Idaho prison for the murders of her children and another woman, will soon be on her way to Arizona to face charges in the death of her fourth husband, Charles Vallow.

The tangled web of mysterious deaths surrounding Lori Vallow and her cult leader husband Chad Daybell, who also faces similar charges, began to unravel in November 2019 when a search began for her missing children, Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow, while they were living in Arizona.

The following June, their bodies were found buried in Daybells backyard in Rexburg, Idaho. Vallow has since been convicted of their murders and conspiring to kill her husbands former wife, Tammy Daybell. She received three consecutive life sentences.

On Wednesday, Idaho Gov Brad Little signed an extradition warrant allowing Arizona officials to temporarily take custody of Vallow so she can face more criminal charges.

Lori Vallow is seen in a mug shot taken after her sentencing in Idaho in July (Idaho Department of Corrections)

It is hereby agreed by the undersigned, the Governor of the State of Idaho and the Governor of the State of Arizona, that Lori Vallow  will be extradited pursuant to this agreement from the State of Idaho to the State of Arizona for trial, the executive agreement states.

The State of Arizona may obtain custody of the said fugitive  and the said fugitive may be transferred back and forth between the State of Arizona and the State of Idaho.

Kay Woodcock, Charles Vallows sister, responded to the news on X formerly Twitter, Praise the Lord!!!! Governor signs Lori Vallow Daybells extradition to Arizona #justiceforcharles. FINALLY!!!

This photo of Tylee Ryan and her brother Joshua JJ Vallow with their uncle Alex Cox was taken days before they were killed (Handout)

Ms Woodock and her husband Larry, who are also JJ Vallows grandparents, have been waiting years for justice for their loved ones. Last week, an Idaho judge signed an order releasing his body to them more than three years after the 7-year-old was smothered and found buried in a shallow grave still wearing his red pyjamas, according to court documents.

1567 The number of days keeps increasing as we fight for justice. FINALLY!!!!, she wrote in a statement to East Idaho News. We are not sure when she will be moved but are thrilled with progress. Simply knowing its in motion, leaves us feeling relieved and happy.

Vallow still lived in a Phoenix suburb with her children, 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow and then-16-year-old Tylee Ryan, when they went missing.

Extended family members had also grown worried about the missing kids, and police launched a multi-state investigation looking for the children.

She was estranged from her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, at the time, and he had written in divorce filings that she claimed to be a goddess sent to usher in the Biblical apocalypse.

Charles and Lori Vallow pictured together. Lori is charged with conspiracy to murder Charles in Arizona (Provided)

Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Vallow Daybells brother, Alex Cox, that summer. Cox told police he acted in self-defence, and he was never charged. Cox died later that year of what investigators said were natural causes.

Shortly after Charles Vallow died, Lori Vallow and her kids moved to Idaho. Prosecutors said she made the move to be closer to her then-boyfriend, Chad Daybell, and that together the two plotted to remove any obstacle to their happiness.

Two weeks before they got married on a beach in Hawaii while the children were missing, Daybells then-wife, Tammy Daybell, died of what was initially believed to be natural causes.

But authorities became suspicious when Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell married just two weeks later, later determining Tammy Daybell had been asphyxiated.

Chad and Tammy Daybell before her death in October 2019 (Facebook)

Meanwhile, another person connected to the family reported an attempted shooting. Brandon Boudreaux, who had recently divorced Vallow Daybells niece, said someone driving a Jeep had shot at him outside his home. The Jeep matched the description of one that had been purchased by Charles Vallow before his death.

The Arizona indictment charges Lori Vallow with conspiring to kill Charles Vallow and Mr Boudreaux.

Jim Archibald, who represented Lori Vallow in the Idaho trial, said he was not representing her in the Arizona case and that she had not yet been appointed an attorney there.

Ive talked to the public defenders in Phoenix, so theyre waiting for her to get there, and when she gets there theyll assign an attorney, Mr Archibald said. He declined to comment to the Associated Press on the Arizona charges.

Lori Vallow remains incarcerated in Pocatello Womens Correctional Center as of Wednesday afternoon. If found guilty of the conspiracy charges in Arizona, she could face another life sentence.

Chad Daybell has been in the Fremont County Jail since he was arrested in June 2020. He is set to stand trial 1 April on murder charges in Ada County, where his wife was tried. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
Two Clovis residents have been arrested in Curry County, New Mexico, after a reported burglary and pursuit on Wednesday afternoon.

The Curry County Sheriff's Office reported that at about 12:40 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, deputies responded to a reported burglary in progress at 1709 Prado in Curry County. As deputies at the scene spoke to the resident involved, two vehicles fled from the property.

"A pursuit ensued with a Monte Carlo that fled the scene at a high rate of speed," the sheriff's office release said. "As the vehicle was pursued north on Norris approaching Mabry Drive, the vehicle being pursued disregarded the red light and was involved in a crash in the intersection of Mabry and Norris. The suspect vehicle was disabled and the driver fled on foot. Deputies pursued on foot and the suspect driver, Arthur Martinez, was taken into custody a short distance away."

At the same time, the other suspect vehicle that had fled, identified as a white Lincoln, pulled up to the scene at Mabry and Norris. Authorities said deputies at the scene ordered the vehicle to stop, but the driver did not comply and attempted to run over a deputy.

Deputies then followed the Lincoln in a brief chase that ended when the Lincoln lost control. The driver, identified as Jojo Padilla, was also taken into custody.

Deputies recovered a backpack that was discarded during the foot chase. The sheriff's office said the backpack contained methamphetamine and a stolen pistol, which was loaded.

Martinez, 39, of Clovis, was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine, felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer, possession of stolen property; resisting, evading, and obstructing an officer; and a probation violation. Martinez also had two outstanding warrants, which included a San Miguel County warrant for criminal damage to property over $1000; possession of a controlled substance; possession of drug paraphernalia;and driving while license suspended; and a 9th District Court Felony Warrant for failure to comply to conditions of release; attempt to commit a felony; and possession of a controlled substance.

Padilla, 19, of Clovis, was taken to the Curry County Adult Detention Center, and arrested on suspicion of aggravated assault upon a peace officer and two counts of aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer. She was also cited for "driver to be licensed, no insurance, expired registration, and obedience to traffic control devices."

No injuries were reported as a result of the pursuits and arrests.

Both suspects are currently being held without bond in the Curry County Adult Detention Center.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Curry County Sheriff's Office: 2 arrested after robbery, pursuits
Every autumn, visual artist Siu Yin Luna decorates an altar in her San Luis Obispo County home with bright orange marigold flowers, candles and photos of loved ones for Dia de los Muertos, a Latin American holiday that honors friends and family members who have died.

It is a truly joyful celebration, Luna said. It is when our ancestors visit us at our home and in our hearts.

This year, shes looking forward to celebrating with her community.

After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Dia de los Muertos festival is returning to downtown San Luis Obispo.

The event, hosted by the Latino Outreach Council, runs from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday in Mission Plaza.

Highlights include a costume contest, face paining, entertainment and decorated altars known as ofrendas, according to event co-organizer Claudia Cabrera Olsen. There will also be food vendors and booths sharing San Luis Obispo County resources.

Aztec and ballet folklorico dancers will perform at 2 p.m., followed by Mexico-based band Mariachi Santa Cecilia at 3:30 p.m.

Afterwards, a DJ will play music while San Luis Obispos Nexus Dance Studio offers dance lessons.

Cabrera Olsen said that community members are welcome to join the festivities even if they dont have Latin American heritage.

Its for everyone to participate, she said, if theyre coming from a place of respect.

The Dia de los Muertos festival was held at the Mission Plaza on Saturday. The Forklorico women dancers wore elaborate headdresses.

What is Dia de los Muertos?

As practiced in countries including Mexico, Dia de los Muertos  Day of the Dead in English  is a two-day holiday. Nov. 1 is dedicated to children who have died, while Nov. 2 is about remembering adults.

Its not a sad celebration, Cabrera Olsen said. Its a way to keep their legacy and spirit alive.

In Cabrera Olsens hometown of Oaxaca, Mexico, every village specialized in a different offering for Dia de los Muertos, she said.

Some grew marigold flowers, while others sold pan de muerto, a sweet bread with a soft, fluffy texture similar to challah bread, she said.

Growing up, Cabrera Olsen and her family would travel 30 miles north of their home to a village famous for its pan de muerto. There, she recalled, the warm fragrance of baking bread wafted out of open windows, encouraging passersby to purchase a loaf.

On the holiday, relatives trade baskets filled with homemade mole, bread, and other treats while celebrating their ancestors together.

Families also clean the cemetery and decorate ofrendas with items for their ancestors.

The Dia de los Muertos festival was held at the Mission Plaza on Saturday. This altar, or ofrendas (meaning offering), was created by Corina Guzman of Paso Robles, with the help of her husband and family. She said they create the altar every years but decided to bring it out in the public this year, for everyone to see.

How to decorate a Day of the Dead altar

Each ofrenda includes items that represent the four elements, Cabrera Olsen said.

Candles represent fire and light the way for the ancestors to visit from the afterlife. Marigolds, which have a strong fragrance, are placed on the ofrenda to guide the spirits home.

A glass of water, pan de muerto, and the ancestors favorite foods are left on the ofrenda to nourish them after their long journey from the afterlife, Cabrera Olsen said.

Wind is represented by papel picado, which are traditional paper banners featuring decorative cutouts.

Meanwhile, salt represents the flavor of life, Cabrera Olsen said, and copal incense cleanses negative energy.

Sugar skulls, which represent the cycle of life, and family photos also decorate the ofrenda, she said.

During the early 1900s, La Catrina, a skeleton wearing a hat decorated with flowers, joined the Dia de los Muertos celebration.

Mexican illustrator Jose Guadalupe Posada sketched her to satirize the wealth gap in Mexico with the message: At the end, we are all bones, Cabrera Olsen said. It was a protest.

Claudia Olsen talks about Dia de los Muertos traditions during a Dia de los Muertos celebration on Saturday at Mission Plaza in San Luis Obispo.

How did SLO start celebrating holiday?

Cabrera Olsen organized her first Dia de los Muertos festival in San Luis Obispo during the early 2000s, she said.

Many Latino families in San Luis Obispo County arent able to travel to their hometowns for Dia de los Muertos, Cabrera Olsen said, so she wanted to host a festival where families could celebrate the holiday while teaching their children and neighbors about the tradition.

Its a lot of work, but its a labor of love, Cabrera Olsen said.

Its a celebration that will bring us all together, she added. In this time of division, we want to promote unity.

Folks can also celebrate Dia de los Muertos in Paso Robles on Saturday, Nov. 4, according to a Facebook post. The celebration will be held at the Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Chapel on Spring Street from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

The Dia de los Muertos festival was held at the Mission Plaza on Saturday. A detail of a skeleton mariachi band created by Susan Lara of Atascadero was a tribute to her favorite singer, Violeta Parra Sandoval. The figures are made with walnut shells and driftwood.
As the search for the Gardner man accused of killing his wife entered its fifth day, police released a new photo of Aaron Pennington taken 11 days before the alleged murder took place.

The Worcester County District Attorneys Office shared a photo Thursday of Pennington, 33, taken on October 11, 11 days before his wife, 30-year-old Breanne Pennington, was found deceased inside their Cherry Sreet home.

The timestamp on the photo indicates it was taken shortly after 7:00 p.m. Authorities did not state where the photo was taken.

Gardner Police were called to the scene on Sunday around 9 a.m. after the couples four children, ages 2, 5, 7, and 9, left the home and went to a neighbors house reporting they could not find their father and that their mother was in her bedroom crying, according to application for the warrant.

When police arrived, they found Breanne Pennington lying in bed in an upstairs bedroom with obvious signs of death from an apparent gunshot wound to the head, according to the paperwork released Wednesday for the warrant.

DA: Murder warrant issued for Gardner man wanted for the shooting death of his wife

Breanne Pennington kept a firearm at the residence for her protection, police wrote. However, neither she nor her husband, Aaron, were licensed to carry a firearm in Massachusetts.

During a search of Aaron Penningtons cell phone on Tuesday, investigators say they discovered a written note from Saturday evening which stated; Dont say anything. Be quite (sic). If she wakes up just say youre getting nasal spray. Get on side of bed, very close proximity to head. Put hole in her head.

It was determined that Pennington had left his home around 9 a.m. on Sunday in his white 2013 BMW Model 320, which was spotted Monday evening by a hunter, about 1,500 feet down a wooded trail off Kenton Street near Camp Collier in Gardner.

Members of the State Police Special Response Team, the State Police Tactical Operations Response Team, the Violent Fugitives Apprehension Section, state police K9 units, and Gardner and Ashburnham police scoured the vast, 400-acre tract of woods before calling off the active search Wednesday evening.

Through interviews and video surveillance, investigators learned that the couple had been dealing with marital issues for quite some time, police wrote.

Breanne Pennington had plans of moving to Texas with the kids to be away from Aaron Pennington. Aaron Pennington suffered from mental health issues and had threatened suicide, police wrote.

Pennington is described as a 62 white male with blonde hair and approximately 175 pounds.

Officials say Pennington should be treated as armed and dangerous and members of the public should not approach him.

Anyone with information regarding the investigation is asked to contact State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorneys Office at 508-832-9124 or Gardner Police at 978-632-5600.

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The man accused of fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy and severely injuring his mother days after the Hamas attack was indicted by a Will County grand jury on hate crime, murder and other charges, prosecutors said Thursday.

Joseph Czuba, 71, faces three counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated battery and two counts of hate crime in connection with a knife attack that killed Wadea Al-Fayoume and left his mother, Hanaan Shahin, hospitalized.

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Czuba, who was the familys landlord, was pushed to attack his Muslim tenants at their shared at his unincorporated Plainfield Township home after listening to conservative talk radio discussion of the war between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas, Will County prosecutors said during his Oct. 16 court hearing.

Judge Donald DeWilkins ordered Czuba held in custody. His next court hearing is set for Monday.

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Czuba is accused of acting exceptionally brutal or heinous behavior indicative of wanton cruelty in his alleged actions toward Wadea and Shahin, per court records.

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 >

President Joe Biden mentioned Wadea by name last week during a prime-time speech where he condemned antisemitic and Islamophobic violence in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

[ DON'T MISS: President Biden speaks to father of slain Will County 6-year-old following Oval Office address where he described the boy as a proud American ]

Will County sheriffs deputies responded to Shahins call that her landlord was attacking her with a knife the morning of Oct. 14. Officers found Shahin severely injured and Wadea stabbed 26 times.

Shahin was hospitalized at the time of her sons funeral, which drew hundreds of people and elected officials to pay their respects.

Thousands attended a vigil to honor Wadeas life held the day after his funeral, where many condemned hateful rhetoric that allegedly pushed Czuba to attack the boy and his mother.

Federal authorities including the FBI and the Department of Justices the civil rights division are investigating the attack.

Illinois authorities are investigating other possible hate crimes and threats against Muslims that have occurred in recent weeks, including the case of a Lombard man who allegedly threatened to shoot two Muslim men outside his apartment building. A pair of Muslim schools in Bridgeview also kept students home last week after one of the institutions received a threatening letter that referenced Wadeas death.
An Indiana man is going to prison for over 50 years after police say he killed and dismembered his son, news outlets reported.

Oh, Im dead. Dont expect me to come home, were some of the last words 10-year-old Nakota Kelly said before he visited his dad, who later admitted to killing him, according to WXIN.

Anthony Dibiah pleaded guilty but mentally ill for the 2020 death of Nakota, according to WTHR.

As part of a plea deal, Dibiah admitted to killing Nakota by suffocating him and then dismembering his body, WXIN reported.

However, Nakotas mom, Hayley Kelly, hasnt gotten the closure of knowing where her sons body is, according to WTHR.

If he had remorse, he would tell me where my son is, Kelly said, according to the outlet.

Kelly said after her son made comments that he thought his dad was going to kill him, she reported her sons concerns to the Department of Child Services. She had reported alleged abuse in the past as well, according to The Indianapolis Star.

I noticed that every time I reported it the abuse got worse and it got more secretive, she told the outlet.

The two were in the middle of a custody battle, The Star reported.

I think he did it to hurt me, and he got what he wanted out of it, Kelly told WTHR.

Kelly said she last spoke to Nakota on July 18, 2020, over the phone. She told him she would see him the next day. But, she never did, The Indianapolis Star reported.

About two hours later, Dibiah called a relative and screamed, I just killed my son, according to court documents obtained by The Star.

Police went to Dibiahs apartment that day and knocked, but no one answered. They said they heard someone moving around inside and saw Dibiahs vehicle parked outside, but did not feel they had enough to enter without permission, so they left, WTHR reported.

Court documents said Dibiah called at least two people, telling them he killed Nakota, according to WXIN.

The next day, police returned and found blood and brain matter in the bathroom of Dibiahs apartment, but neither Dibiah nor Nakota were there, WTHR reported.

Dibiah was arrested in Missouri by the Missouri State Highway Patrol around 4 p.m. that day, according to the outlet.

On Wednesday, Oct. 25, Dibiah was sentenced to 52 years in prison, according to WXIN. Kelly has also filed a lawsuit against the Indiana Department of Child Services.

Nakotas remains have not been found as of Oct. 26.

Father accused of killing son after body found dumped on highway, Texas officials say

Mom charged after 6-year-old son is found stabbed inside burning apartment, GA cops say

Dad charged with murder after house fire kills three children, Louisiana cops say
A contributor for The Daily Beast left their home in Gaza City this week just hours before an airstrike struck their neighborhood, damaging their apartment and reducing other buildings near the area to rubble.

The journalist, whose name has been withheld for their safety, described the experience to The Daily Beast as a night from hell.

The Gaza resident had moved to five different locations across the enclave with their family since Israeli airstrikes began pummeling the region two weeks ago, in the aftermath of Hamas Oct. 7 attacks. Eventually, they decided to go back to their home in Gaza City due to overcrowding and lack of water and electricity at their relatives homes in the south of the enclave.

Our house has an underground well and solar energy so we decided to go back, even if it was risky, they told The Daily Beast.

On a whim, the Palestinian journalist decided to spend Monday night in a cultural center near their home, where hundreds of other refugees are sheltering in northern Gaza.

But around 11 p.m., huge strikes hit the neighborhood and the sky turned an eerie orange and the ground shook with massive explosions, they wrote in a message, describing what they witnessed from the shelter that night.

Shrapnel was flying all over the place. Things got even scarier. Debris was hitting people, and we could smell gas in the air. It was chaos, and we couldnt make heads or tails of it. All we could do was pray to see another day. I forgot that I was a journalist. I was crying, screaming, praying and terrified like the men, women, grandmothers, infants and children surrounding me, they wrote.

Hundreds of Palestinians taking refuge at a cultural center in Gaza City joining in a communal prayer. Handout/The Daily Beast

The journalist said the strikes went on until roughly 3 a.m., and started back up again at 7 a.m. for about an hour and a half. Eventually, I somehow managed to find a brave driver who brought us to the south of Gaza.

In the middle of all this, we were lucky to have friends who let us stay in a new building thats still under construction. Its not perfect, but its a safe place where we can at least wash our clothes by hand and brush our teeth. We were the luckiest to find a source of water, they wrote.

Ticking Clock

Around the time of the airstrike incident, the journalist was on assignment for The Daily Beast, reporting on aid deliveries to Gaza through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

While dozens of humanitarian aid trucks have entered Gaza through the crossing this week, the director-general of the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza, Munir al-Bursh, said that much of the aid has not yet been distributed to civilians.

He explained that after the aid deliveries enter through the Rafah crossing, they must be transported to the Kafr Abu Salem crossing to be inspected by Israeli authorities before distribution.

The aid currently entering Gaza is insufficient and fails to meet the region's pressing needs, he said, adding that more than 29 medical centers and numerous hospitals have gone out of service in the enclave.

Speaking of the dire situation in Gazas hospitals, he stressed that a power outage in the premature infants department could lead to immediate fatalities, as there are over 120 babies in care. Al-Bursh also said that many surgeries for patients are performed without an anesthetic.

A makeshift kitchen set up on a Gaza City street. Handout/The Daily Beast

Civilians across Gaza City told The Daily Beast that food shortages have become dire.

We dont have gas cylinders or electricity in home since the start of the war, so I dont have any choice other than waiting in [a bakery] queue for three hours or more on a daily basis to bring bread to my family, 45-year-old Mohammed Ismael from Gazas Nuseirat camp said.

Samy Ahmed, 38, was also waiting in a long queue with more than 80 people to buy some bread for his family. We heard that the UNRWA distributed wheat to some bakeries in Khan Younis and Rafah, but none of this new aid reached Gaza city. Why isnt the UNRWA trying to bring aid to Gaza? Shall we die of hunger?, he asked The Daily Beast.

A lack of fuel across Gaza has also raised alarm that life in Gaza will stop, UNRWAs Adnan Abu Hasna said in a press statement on Wednesday morning. Only a few hours remain before we run out of fuel, and if the fuel runs out and hospital generators stop.

Omar Abu Taha, who represents power station owners in Gaza, told The Daily Beast: We demand the international community help us get fuel and gas to the Gaza Strip to cover the health, commercial and humanitarian needs, which remains stuck at the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing.

On the issue of aid deliveries to Gaza, U.S. President Joe Biden expressed concern this week that aid isnt getting into the enclave fast enough.

A Palestinian girl sheltering at a cultural center in Gaza City. Handout/The Daily Beast

Ghost Town

According to the Palestinian health ministry in Gaza, more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the enclave since the war began. A looming Israeli ground offensive in Gaza threatens even more civilian casualties.

Meanwhile, in Israelwhere Hamas killed some 1,400 people in the Oct. 7 attacksthe families of the more than 200 hostages abducted by militants into Gaza are holding their breath, waiting in agony for any news about the fate of their loved ones.

The Daily Beasts stringer in Gaza, who continues to report on the humanitarian crisis in the enclave even after their close brush with death this week, said in a message that their neighborhood in Gaza City had been an oasis of life in the middle of a desert of death.

Now, it has become a ghost town thats been completely flattened in the war.

While detailing their ordeal, the reporter made an emotional plea, spoken into the void: I swear to God, we just want this war to end.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

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VERO BEACH  Former Sebastian City Council member Damien Gilliams surrendered to sheriffs officials Wednesday at the Indian River County Jail to begin serving a 45-day sentence after the Florida Supreme Court turned down his appeal.

Gilliams, 62, was booked into the jail at 12:17 p.m. Wednesday, records show.

State prosecutors on Tuesday filed papers seeking his incarceration after the Florida Supreme Court on Oct. 11 issued an order rejecting Gilliams bid to review his appeal of May 2021 convictions and a jail sentence associated with Sunshine Law and perjury charges.

Damien Gilliams

Gilliams turned to the Florida Supreme Court after the Fourth District Court of Appeal in June concluded an Indian River County jury properly convicted him of three Sunshine Law violations and found former Sebastian City Council member Pam Parris, 63, guilty of one Sunshine Law violation.

In separate opinions, the appeals panel also threw out one perjury conviction against both Gilliams and Parris.

Former Sebastian City Council member Pamela Parris turns to her family sitting behind her in Circuit Court on Sept. 14, 2021, during a sentencing hearing before Circuit Court Judge Michael Minn at the Indian River County Courthouse in Vero Beach. Parris was found guilty of violating the state Sunshine Law and perjury and sentenced to 210 days in jail and fined $2,500, however she is expected to serve three months after Linn order their sentences to be served at the same time

Parris remains convicted of one count of perjury. The Florida Supreme Court also denied taking up her appeal, records show.

On Oct. 17, a judge issued an order allowing her to remain free on bond until a new sentencing hearing on Jan. 5.

Meanwhile, Gilliams and his son, Damien L. Junior Gilliams, 31, are again running for a seat on the Sebastian City Council; the election is Nov. 7.

In 2022, both father and son finished last in a seven-person race with 2.35% and 2.03% of the vote, respectively.

Its unclear if the elder Gilliams will still be in jail on election night. He has a hearing scheduled Monday before Circuit Judge Robert Meadows in a bid to reduce his sentence.

Assistant State Attorney Lev Evans said during Mondays hearing the state will object to any efforts to modify Gilliams sentence.

This case is old, its a misdemeanor case thats been all the way to the Florida Supreme Court, Evans said. Its time for him to face his sentence.

Gilliams' lawyer Jeffrey Garland could not be reached for comment Thursday.

Sunshine law convictions

Gilliams and Parris were prosecuted in May 2021 for violating the state Sunshine Law and perjury. The charges stem from their actions on April 22, 2020, when they and Vice Mayor Charles Mauti arrived at City Hall for a meeting City Manager Paul Carlisle canceled late in the day.

The three held their own meeting and made decisions, including appointing Gilliams mayor.

All three were removed from office in September 2020 by a recall election.

A jury convicted Gilliams of three counts of Sunshine Law violations and one count of perjury.

Parris was found guilty of one count of violating the state Sunshine Law and two counts of perjury. She was acquitted of one count of perjury.

On Gilliams three Sunshine Law violations, the jury found he knew the City Council did not provide reasonable notice of the meeting and that he knowingly attended a meeting that was not open to the public at all times. His perjury conviction, which is now vacated, was for lying to investigators.

Parris conviction for violating the open-meetings law was on the same grounds; her two perjury convictions also related to statements she made to investigators.

Melissa E. Holsman is the legal affairs reporter for TCPalm and Treasure Coast Newspapers and is writer and co-host of "Uncertain Terms," a true-crime podcast. Reach her at melissa.holsman@tcpalm.com. If you are a subscriber, thank you. If not, become a subscriber to get the latest local news on the Treasure Coast.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Damien Gilliams loses appeal, surrenders to Indian River County Jail
Dan Bishop has long been someone far more interested in petty politics than genuine public service or the business of governing. Unfortunately for the state of North Carolina, that doesnt seem to be changing now that hes running for statewide office.

So far, his 2024 attorney general campaign appears to have one goal: to be as unhinged as possible.

Hours after Democrat Jeff Jackson announced his own candidacy, Bishop seized the opportunity to go on the offensive. Did he criticize Jackson for anything of substance? No, of course not. That would be boring.

Instead, he simply said Jackson was a woke liberal and took a dig at his use of TikTok by calling him a Chinese social media star. But it didnt stop there. Bishop then issued an absurd faux press release intended to parodize Jacksons campaign.

The press release uses Jacksons campaign logo and is written in Chinese. The English translation, which is included at the bottom, reads:

My name is Jeff Jackson. Im a TikTok star who wants to make North Carolina soft on crime  Now back to stupid videos of me helping China spy on North Carolina and cats.

The bottom of the press release says Paid for by Jeff Jackson for NCCCP, which ostensibly stands for North Carolina Chinese Communist Party.

Clearly, this is the work of a Very Serious Person running a Very Serious Campaign.

Lets just call this what it is: a stunt. Bishop even tagged the far-right social media account Libs of TikTok, probably hoping that its more than 2.5 million followers would help his campaign go viral. (Libs of TikTok is known for sharing incendiary content that has reportedly led to harassment, threats and violence against LGBTQ+ people and their allies.)

Pretty hypocritical of Bishop to criticize his opponents use of social media while hes busy fishing for views and likes himself.

But its also just bizarre and borderline offensive. Mocking your opponent with a press release written in Chinese  sounding the alarm that he might somehow be a Chinese spy  is simply beyond the pale. While security concerns about TikTok are certainly valid, the anti-Chinese rhetoric that has become ubiquitous among Republican politicians is divisive and only inflames tensions toward the Asian American community. The post also said that the release was for our unamerican friends, as if anyone who speaks Chinese or has Chinese heritage cannot also be American.

Well certainly learn a lot about Jackson from how he chooses to respond to Bishops underhanded tactics throughout the course of the campaign. But Bishop is showing us exactly who he is, and its not someone who wants to talk about his vision for a better North Carolina. Hate and negativity seem to be the only platform he has to run on.
Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Max Muncy (C) gets doused with Gatorade after hitting a walk-off solo home run during the 18th inning against the Boston Red Sox in Game 3 of the MLB 2018 World Series at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on October 26, 2018. It was the longest World Series game in terms of time in history. File Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- On this date in history:

In 1825, the Erie Canal, America's first man-made waterway, was opened, linking the Great Lakes and Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River.

In 1881, the storied gunfight at the O.K. Corral occurred in Tombstone, Ariz.

In 1920, the lord mayor of Cork, Ireland, Terence McSwiney, demanding independence for Ireland, died after a 2 1/2-month hunger strike in a British prison cell.

In 1942, Allied troops moving through the Egyptian front captured 1,450 Axis prisoners, routed Nazi tanks in the armored clash and pulverized the enemy line.

President Donald Trump signs a presidential memorandum declaring the opioid crisis a public health emergency in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., on October 26, 2017. File Photo by Kevin Dietsch/UPI

In 1944, after four days of furious fighting, the World War II battle of Leyte Gulf, largest air-naval clash in history, ended with a decisive U.S. victory over the Japanese.

File Photo by US Navy/UPI

Italian prisoners of war captured in the El Alamein area entering the "cage" preceeded by their guard. Picture taken ca. Nov. 1942. File Photo by OWI/UPI

In 1951, British voters placed Winston Churchill's Conservative Party at the helm of government today after six years of socialism.

In 1979, South Korean President Park Chung-hee was assassinated by the director of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency.

On October 26, 1825, the Erie Canal, pictured in 1902, was opened, linking the Great Lakes and Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River. File Photo by Library of Congress/UPI

In 1984, doctors in California performed the first baboon-to-human heart transplant in a 14-day-old girl, known as Baby Fae. The baby died of heart failure Nov. 15.

In 1990, District of Columbia Mayor Marion Barry was sentenced to six months in prison and fined $5,000 for his conviction on misdemeanor drug charges. Barry became mayor again in 1995.

Palestinian children watch masked members of the Islamic Jihad Movement march during a rally October 31, 2003 in Beit Lahiya in north Gaza. About 3,000 supporters held a gathering marking the eighth anniversary of the assassination of the Islamic Jihad Movement founder Fathi Shaqaqi in Malta on October 26, 1995. File Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI

File Photo by Bruce Young/UPI

In 1994, Israel and Jordan signed a peace treaty at a desert site along the Israeli-Jordanian border.

In 1995, Islamic Jihad leader co-founder, Fathi Shaqaqi (Fathi ash-Shiqaqi), was assassinated by Mossad agents at his hotel in Malta.

In 1998, the presidents of Ecuador and Peru signed a peace treaty, ending a decades-long border dispute.

In 2002, a four-day Moscow hostage crisis came to a bloody end after Russian soldiers stormed a theater where Chechen rebels had held 700 people for ransom. Ninety hostages and 50 rebels were killed.

In 2010, GlaxoSmithKline, the British drug manufacturer, agreed to settle criminal and civil complaints for $750 million, stemming from accusations of knowingly selling drugs with questionable safety standards.

In 2015, a 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Afghanistan, killing nearly 400 people there and in India and Pakistan.

In 2017, President Donald Trump declared the opioid crisis a national public health emergency.

In 2018, the Boston Red Sox and the Los Angeles Dodgers began what would become the longest World Series game both in time (7 hours, 20 minutes) and number of innings (18). The Angeles won 3-2 to put the series at 2-1, but the Red Sox won the series two days later.

In 2022, protesters marked the 40-day mourning period for Mahsa Amini, who died September 16, 2022, after Iranian morality police arrested her for not having her hair covered according to Islamic law. Police cracked down on protests, which continued into 2023, resulting in hundreds of deaths and injuries, and tens of thousands of arrests.

File Photo courtesy EPA-EFE
Wikimedia Commons



"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



A former professional blackjack player might be on the cusp of cracking one of the most notorious cold cases in historyone so puzzling, even the FBI couldnt solve it. But first, the sleuth just needs to get his hands on a discarded black tie.

Eric Ulis of Michigan is so convinced that hes the man to finally solve the infamous D.B. Cooper skyjacking of Thanksgiving Eve 1971the only unsolved commercial airline hijacking in U.S. historythat hes literally suing the FBI to make it happen.

In 2022, Ulis laid out his theory on how the remnants of an alloy that the FBI reportedly found on Coopers tossed tie pinpoint the skyjackers workplace to a Midland, Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of titanium-antimony. All Ulis needs now, he feels, is the samples off the tie, which is why hes pursuing litigation to procure them.

Ulis, like many other amateur sleuths, hopes to finally answer the 51-year-old question: Who was D.B. Cooper? But before he can address that one, we first have to ask another: Why do people still care about D.B. Cooper?

Lets start with the fateful day that we (sort of) met the man (incorrectly) called D.B. Cooper.

Getty Images

D.B. Cooper: The Mystery Man

Its November 24, 1971.

The No. 1 movie in America is The French Connection, a gritty neo-noir where handsome Hollywood stars Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider get stylishly dirtied up to play New York Police Department officers chasing down heroin smugglers. At the same time, the No. 1 song on the radio is Isaac Hayes Theme from Shaft, the iconic song soundtracking a film about the impeccably tailored detective John Shaft, who would just as soon work with the pushers and pimps of Harlem than take help from the NYPD, as long as he gets justice. Which is all to suggest that in November 1971, the United States hasnt quite figured out who to root for in the proverbial game of cops and robbers.

But the mystery man of the hour on that November afternoon looked nothing like the gritty-but-glamorous stars of the days premier crime dramas. He was, as the FBI described him, a white male, 61 tall, 170-175 pounds, age-mid-forties, olive complexion, brown eyes, black hair, conventional cut, parted on left.

He purchased, in cash, a one-way ticket aboard Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 305 from Portland, Oregon, to Seattle. He paid $18.52 and gave the name Dan Cooper. There was no ID checked, no security protocols of any kind. Dan Cooper was permitted to board his flight unencumbered.

This might be the point in the story where you think, Well, they couldnt have expected that somebody would hijack the plane. But while apparently they didnt, they absolutely should have.

These days, our idea of plane hijackers is either D.B. Cooper, the terrorists behind the 9/11 attacks, or those scrappy prisoners from Con Air. But by 1971, skyjacking was a fairly regular occurrence. In fact, Vox notes that between May 1961 and the end of 1972, there were 159 hijackings in American airspace. Hijackings, or as they were colloquially called, skyjackings, were common enough that the year prior to the D.B. Cooper affair, the British comedy troupe Monty Python aired a sketch mocking the absurd frequency of the act.

D.B. Coopers Skyjacking, Explained

Onboard the Boeing jet, [Cooper] had a bourbon and soda, smoked cigarettes, and gave a flight attendant a note that said he had a bomb, Biography previously reports. In fact, the flight attendant to whom the note was passed, Florence Schaffner, didnt even read the note initially.

Geoffrey Grays Skyjack: The Hunt for D.B. Cooper goes into great detail on the degree to which flight attendants of the time were subject to harassment and inappropriate behavior from passengers. Schaffner likely assumed the note was merely a suggestive missive from an amorous traveler until the man whispered to her, Miss, youd better look at that note. I have a bomb.

But did Cooper really have a bomb? Well, he certainly had a case containing wires and red sticks, and that was enough for him to get his demands heard. What did Cooper want? $200,000 in $20 bills, as well as four parachutes.

Getty Images

The Great D.B. Cooper Escape

Heres where we get our first bit of evidence that Cooper knew a bit more than your usual hijacker. Coopers request of four parachutes was made so that those on the ground would think he intended to take a hostage with him. Had he only requested two (parachuting always involves two chutes: the primary and the backup), there was a chance he would have been given dummy chutes so that he would plummet to his death rather than get away with the money. (Our anti-hijacking strategies back then were pretty bad, and this one wasnt even the dumbest idea we had.) But they wouldnt risk that happening to an innocent hostage. Cooper was in control.

That meant Cooper got his way. The plane landed in Seattle, the hostages were exchanged for the ransom, and a skeleton crew (two pilots, a flight engineer, and a flight attendant) took Cooper back in the air, toward Mexico City. Cooper instructed the pilots to fly lower than 10,000 feet, at a speed under 200 knots and to lower the planes aft stairs. He then descended those stairs, unseen, and parachuted into the night, with $200,000 in tow, leaving behind only a black necktie, plus some cigarette butts that have since gone missing.

How Dan Cooper Became D.B. Cooper

What Cooper couldnt control, however, was whether anyone got his fake name right.

Youll recall that he gave the name Dan Cooper when he purchased his plane ticket. He possibly took the moniker from a Franco-Belgian comic book entitled Les Aventures de Dan Cooper, whose stories notably involved jumping out of a plane with a parachute, as well as a ransom being delivered in a knapsack. So how did it become D.B.? Simple. Reporter James Long, of the Oregon Journal in Portland, simply got the name wrong. Either because the Northwest [source] gave it to me wrong or because the noisy [phone] connection helped me misunderstand it, Long later confessed to The Los Angeles Times.

But it stuck, and D.B. Cooper became the name that earned both infamy and, in some corners, folk-hero status amongst a fading counter-culture desperate for remnants of the anti-establishment.

What Happened to D.B. Cooper?



Getty Images

So what became of D.B. Cooper? No one truly knows. While the ransom money never entered circulation, some of it did turn up in 1980, badly decomposed and buried on the north shore of the Columbia River, discovered by 8-year-old Brian Ingram.

Though suspects emerged throughout the years, the FBI ruled them all out for various reasons. And in 2016, the agency officially closed the book on the D.B. Cooper investigation, choosing to devote its resources elsewhere.

But that hasnt stopped citizen detectives like Eric Ulis from trying to crack the Cooper case.

Why Do We Still Care About D.B. Cooper?

Which brings us back to the whyWhat keeps people coming back to D.B. Cooper, long after the crime, the investigation, and that entire era of unsecured, casual air travel are all consigned to the history books?

Sean and Carrie McCabe, whose true-crime podcast Aint It Scary? with Sean & Carrie covered Cooper in an early episode, have a hunch about why the intrepid airplane criminal in the cool eyewear remains in the public consciousness.

First, like all of the best true crime stories, its because theres no clear answer, Sean recently told Popular Mechanics. We dont know who the guy was, and we likely never will know for sure. And that leaves room for everyone to bring their own opinion and their own investigator hat, and speculate without any fear of ever really being proven wrong.

Carrie suggests that its also the nature of Coopers crime that keeps people coming back to it:

D.B. Cooper was kind of a cool figure. He didnt hurt anybody (aside from maybe himself) in his crime, he didnt use aggressive physical force. I think that makes him an object of fascination that people can be more openly interested in than, say, a serial killer. Being interested in true crime often comes with a lot of caveatsI dont like Jeffrey Dahmer, I just like learning more about his pathology, etc.but with Coopers relatively victimless crime, you dont have to feel creepy if youre interested.

We dont have to co-sign Dan Coopers actions for a little tiny part of us to wish we were him, Sean concurs.

When pressed if they think the D.B. Cooper case will ever be solved, the podcasters concede its unlikely. God, Im trying to think of the fun answer, but... no? Sean says. Probably not. None of the money has ever been spent, which makes me think our Mr. Cooper probably died in the jump.

I think the only way itll ever be cracked is if, Carrie adds, someone comes forward with concrete proof that their deceased relative was Cooper, like a stack of the missing money.

Or maybe, just maybe, some residue of alloy on a tie could be the thing to crack this whole case wide open.

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A year after deadly South Korea Halloween crowd crush families urge goverment to make changes to prevent such tragedies

A year after deadly South Korea Halloween crowd crush families urge goverment to make changes to prevent such tragedies

By Hyunsu Yim and Daewoung Kim

SEOUL (Reuters) -One year after Park Young-soo lost her only son in a Halloween weekend crowd crush that killed 159 people in the South Korean capital, she still cant bring herself to open the door to his room.

She says she may not be able to move on with her life until she sees some kind of accountability from the government.

Park is one of more than 100 family members who say the authorities have done little to hold those responsible to account.

Like Park's 29-year-old son, Lee Nam-hoon, most victims were young people who went to Seoul's nightlife district of Itaewon on Oct. 29 for its famed Halloween parties.

At around 10 p.m., the crowds in the narrow streets and an alleyway around the Hamilton Hotel became so packed that people had trouble breathing.

Despite at least 11 emergency calls over some four hours warning of the worsening situation, authorities failed to respond before the crowd surged and left dozens of victims crushed or in cardiac arrest.

Lee died in the crush. His girlfriend survived.

This week, the area near the alley was designated as a space to remember the victims. Political fault lines formed in the disaster's wake are still evident.

President Yoon Suk Yeol won't be attending a memorial gathering near the Seoul city hall this weekend, with an official telling the Yonhap news agency it was "more of a political rally held by the opposition party".

Gatherings have not been banned in Itaewon over Halloween this year though authorities and police have been conducting crowd-control drills featuring an AI-backed network of nearly 1,000 closed-circuit TV cameras, ahead of the first anniversary of the disaster.

The Itaewon deaths shocked a nation still scarred by the 2014 sinking of a ferry, the Sewol, that killed 304 people including 250 children on a school trip.

The Halloween disaster prompted a period of national mourning and a police investigation that ended this year with an acknowledgement of negligence and a poor response by the authorities, and the referral of 23 officials for prosecution.

But no senior government official has resigned or been removed over the disaster.

"The government agencies and the presidential office have been extremely irresponsible and inactive," Park said.

'IT HURTS MY HEART'

Yoon's office said in a statement the president had expressed on several occasions that he was "heartbroken and deeply sorry as president", and that remained unchanged.

"Our top priority is peoples lives and safety; the government will continue to assess the national safety system and make necessary improvements," the office said.

Interior Minister Lee Sang-min - who has fended off efforts to impeach him over the incident - issued an apology to victims on Wednesday and expressed "infinite responsibility" for failing to protect lives.

Relatives of the victims want a special law that would allow an independent and comprehensive investigation into the cause of the crush. A bill, backed by the opposition, has yet to be passed by the National Assembly without the support of the ruling People Power Party.

"I just don't want the government to obstruct our effort," Park said with tears in her eyes, referring to the bid for an independent investigation.

Some ruling party lawmakers and a municipal official have accused the families and other critics of trying to profit from the tragedy, or even of acting on behalf of old rival North Korea.

Kim Young-nam, a mother who lost her daughter in the crush, said she wanted to restore the honour of victims subjected to baseless accusations of drug taking, and what critics said amounted to victim blaming for going out to mark the foreign festival of Halloween.

"It hurts my heart. We need a thorough investigation and preventative measures so that young people are never sacrificed like this," Kim said at a memorial altar outside Seoul's city hall.

Twenty-six of the victims were foreigners, from 14 countries including the U.S., Japan and Iran. A relative of one of them told a press conference on Thursday that foreign families felt isolated with no support from the government.

"Nothing is reported to us nor communicated to us," said Nari Kim from Austria, who lost her younger brother in the crush.

Jong-Woo Paik, chairman of the Korean Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, said the government had to show that lessons had been learned to avoid an erosion of trust in society.

"South Korea is an advanced country and the government should create an atmosphere and opportunities as a nation to overcome social disasters together," he said.

"In this aspect, the Itaewon tragedy has been deeply regrettable."

(Reporting by Hyunsu Yim, Daewoung Kim and Heejung Jung; Additional Reporting by Jimin Jung; Editing by Josh Smith and Robert Birsel)
Welcome back to The Collision. Its been quite a week, and were not even talking about all the machinations within the House Republican conference to finally (finally!) select a new speaker of the House. On tap today: plea deals, immunity deals, and a couple of remarkable moments in Donald Trump s civil trial in New York. Lets dive in.

The Docket

As his trial was beginning last Friday, Kenneth Chesebroa former Trump campaign lawyerreached a plea deal with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis that was similar to the deal Willis made one day earlier with his co-defendant, Sidney Powell. Chesebro admitted to one felony count of conspiring to put forth a slate of Trump electors from Georgia despite Joe Biden winning the state. Trump and another attorney, John Eastman, are among the co-defendants in the case who have pleaded not guilty.

Another Trump lawyer indicted in Fulton County, Jenna Ellis, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a felony charge of aiding and abetting false statements and writings as part of the effort to change the outcome of the election in Georgia. A tearful Ellis offered a statement during her plea entry in the Atlanta courthouse, telling the judge she regretted her actions.

Moving to the federal case involving Trumps election interference, ABC News reported this week that Mark Meadows , Trumps final and perhaps most loyal White House chief of staff, had been granted immunity in order to testify before a grand jury earlier this year. George Terwilliger, an attorney for Meadows, told CBS News that the ABC News story was largely inaccurate but has not otherwise commented. Meadows was also among those Trump associates indicted in Fulton County, where he has pleaded not guilty.

Proceedings in Trumps civil trial in New York ended on Wednesday with Trump reportedly storming out of the courtroom following testimony of his former attorney, Michael Cohen. That was just the climax of a wild day, which also saw Trump take the stand for the first time in a special hearing convened to determine whether the former president violated a limited gag order imposed by Judge Arthur Engoron.

At one point during a break in the trial, Trump made a comment to the cameras outside the courtroom about a partisan sitting beside Engoron that the judge interpreted as a possible swipe at his clerk, in violation of the gag order. When Trump claimed he was talking about Cohen, Engoron didnt seem to buy it, fining Trump $10,000 and refusing to budge when Trumps attorneys asked him to reconsider. Ive reconsidered, the ruling stands, Engoron said. Dont do it again or itll be worse.

Speaking of, Judge Tanya Chutkan temporarily paused her own gag order in Trumps election interference casewhich barred Trump from speaking out against the judge, potential witnesses, and court workersas the Trump legal team appeals it. Special counsel Jack Smith filed a request on Wednesday to reinstate the order. (Check out Sarah and Davids conversation about the gag order on a recent episode of Advisory Opinions.)

Please Plea Me

In the days since Sidney Powell, Kenneth Chesebro, and Jenna Ellis entered their guilty pleas in Fulton County, theres been plenty of commentary about what it means that three lawyers in Trumps orbit have agreed to testify against the former president.

On the one hand, Team Exploding Fireball will tell you that this is proof that Donald Trump is about to go down. His co-defendants, after all, keep pleading guilty to crimes that prosecutors have linked to Trump himself. Of course, members of Team Exploding Fireball are usually the same people who treated every development in the Mueller investigation as evidence that the special counsel was about to release proof that Trump had illegally colluded with the Russians to influence the 2016 election.

On the other hand, Team Dud will tell you that the guilty pleas in Georgia are proof that Fani Willis case is incredibly weak. After all, she did charge these people with a zillion felonies worth 20 or more years in prison, and now theyre writing an apology letter with no prison time. That said, it can be hard to see so many guilty pleas and think its all good news for the former president.

The correct answer: We dont know. And before we go any further, lets recap each plea deal on its own.

Sidney Powell faced seven felony charges related to her role in breaching election systems in Coffee County, Georgia. She pleaded guilty to six misdemeanors on October 19, the day before her trial was set to begin. As part of that plea, she agreed to serve six years of probation, pay $6,000 in restitution, and write a letter of apology to the citizens of Georgia.

Originally charged with seven felonies, Kenneth Chesebro agreed to plead guilty to a single felonyone count of conspiracy to commit filing of false documents related to the fake electors scheme. He agreed to five years of probation and to pay $5,000 in restitution and a written apology.

Jenna Ellis, meanwhile, had been hit with two felonies in the Georgia case. She pleaded guilty to one of themaiding and abetting false statementsand also agreed to five years of probation, $5,000 in restitution payments, and a written apology.

There are a few reasons prosecutors agree to plea deals like these. They may, for example, know that the small-fish defendant has evidence they can use against a bigger-fish defendant. If they cant get this evidence anywhere else, they might offer to reduce charges against the small fish. The small fish often agrees, because the prosecutors have the small fish dead-to-rights on much bigger charges with a much lengthier prison sentence.

The juicer the info, the more reduced the sentence will be from the original charging document. Seven felonies pleaded down to six misdemeanors? Powell must have something really juicy on the big guy! As evidenced by a recent New York Times headlineSidney Powells Plea Deal Could Be a Threat to Trumpthis is the scenario that Team Exploding Fireball is envisioning.

The potential problem with that theory is that theres another reason prosecutors might pursue a plea deal. If the prosecution believes their case is weak enough that they risk an acquittal at trial, they often throw a bunch of spaghetti against the wall in the indictmentspaghetti here being charges that come with lengthy jail sentencesand hope that a defendant doesnt want to take their chances with a jury.

In cases like those, youll often see plea agreements that dont include any prison time. The prosecution saves face by securing a guilty plea, and the defendant is happy to take a deal that keeps them out of jail. And a $5,000 fine? Thats less than these guys are going to have to pay their attorneys to read the document with the $5,000 fine agreement.

So now were back to these plea deals in Georgia. Maybe they mean the prosecution knows their case is weaker than the sprawling indictment lets on. Or maybe these defendants were able to convince the prosecution that theyve got the goods on some bigger fish. How can we know for sure? We cant. Not until or unless we know what theyll offer as testimony.

Sarahs View

Heres my hunch, having been in a few private meetings with Donald Trump: For better or worse, theres very little of note that Ive ever heard Trump say in private that he didnt then say in public. Theres not some secret Trump lurking behind closed doors. So the idea that these guys can testifycrediblyto some smoking gun statement from the former president that isnt already available on Twitter is possible, sure, but unlikely to me.

And, yes, the prosecution knows exactly what these witnesses can testify to and what they got in exchange for this plea agreement. So now we wait.

As Ive said before, the Georgia case has broad laws on its side but I thought the indictment itself was less compelling than meets the eye. By bringing the case against 19 defendants, the prosecutor was guaranteed big headlinesbut also big headaches. Compare that case to the federal election fraud case brought by special counsel Jack Smith, which is narrower in scope and focused on Trumps words and actions.

This week, ABC News reported that Mark Meadows, Trumps former chief of staff, had been granted immunity to testify in front of a federal grand jury. According to the report, Meadows testified that he repeatedly told Trump in the weeks after the 2020 presidential election that the allegations of significant voting fraud coming to them were baseless. Bloomberg News added that Meadows was also threatened with being held in contempt of court if he did not testify.

Of course, we already knew that dozens of people had told Trump his election fraud claims were baseless, including his own attorney general. Meadows has also been charged in the Georgia case. I guess well see what kind of deal theyre willing to offer for that testimony down in the Peach State.

Verbatim

Heres a choice quotation from Jenna Ellis statement at her hearing in Fulton County this week:

If I knew then what I know now, I would have declined to represent Donald Trump in these post-election challenges. I look back on this whole experience with deep remorse.

One More Thing

Something to watch, via CNN:

A Colorado judge has rejected another attempt by former President Donald Trump to throw out a lawsuit seeking to block him from the 2024 presidential ballot based on the 14th Amendments insurrectionist ban. The ruling Wednesday from Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace clears the way for an unprecedented trial to begin next week, to determine if Trump is disqualified from returning to the White House because of his role in the January 6, 2021, insurrection. This is the fifth unsuccessful bid by Trump to throw out the Colorado case, which is one of several pending suits trying to derail his candidacy based on the 14th Amendment.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
Warning: This article contains graphic images.

In a leveled neighborhood in the city of Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, a group of men digging through the rubble found first one hand, then another. When they lifted the body of 11-year-old Sila Hamdan out of the broken cement blocks and dust, they found her sister, 9-year-old Tila, tucked beneath her.

The girls were killed Tuesday night when a bombing destroyed some 15 homes in the area, killing at least 37, according to local health officials. The recovery of their bodies was filmed by an NBC News team in the Gaza Strip.

The men wrapped the girls in flowered sheets and carried them to the back of a pickup truck, the smaller one still cradled in one mans arms. They were taken to the morgue and laid alongside a dozen other casualties wrapped in funeral shrouds, as their family members wept.

The death of the Hamdan sisters illustrates the heavy toll the war is taking on Gazas overwhelmingly young population. Children make up about half of Gazas nearly 2.3 million people  many of whom were born during Israels strict 16-year blockade of Gaza and are now watching bombs destroy their neighborhoods.

A man holds a child as they receive treatment at a trauma ward in Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. (Mahmud Hams / AFP - Getty Images)

In 2022, 4 out of 5 children in Gaza were already living with depression, fear and grief, according to a report by Save the Children. More than half said they had contemplated suicide.

This war has only made it worse.

At least 2,704 children have been killed, according to Palestinian health officials, since Israel began its bombardment on Gaza in retaliation for Hamas terror attacks in Israel on Oct. 7 that killed more than 1,400 people in Israel and saw more than 220 taken hostage. Another 830 children are estimated to still be trapped in rubble in Gaza.

The situation in the Gaza Strip is a growing stain on our collective conscience. The rate of death and injuries of children is simply staggering, Adele Khodr, UNICEF regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, said in a statement on Tuesday.

Almost every child in the Gaza Strip has been exposed to deeply distressing events and trauma, UNICEF said.

A child from the Al-Zanati family killed with other family members is carried to a waiting vehicle to be driven for burial in Khan Yunis on Oct. 23, 2023, as battles continue between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas group. (Mahmud Hams / AFP via Getty Images)

Gazas humanitarian situation has reached an unprecedented point  with severe shortages of food, water and electricity. Hospitals are functioning on the last drops of fuel. On Tuesday, the Gaza Health Ministry described the health system in southern Gaza as being "in a state of complete collapse.

Israels military has questioned warnings that a fuel shortage will force it to end its operations in Gaza.

Medical personnel struggled to cope with the hundreds of injuries coming through the doors every day, many of them children.

At Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Dr. Akram Alaauiny murmured reassurances to 6-year-old Zina Alabarshly, who was whimpering and streaked with ash. He told her that she was good, not to be afraid, that she would be going home soon  as medical personnel checked her for injuries.

He grabbed a latex glove, blew it up like a balloon, and handed it to her.

Her wound was minor, Alaauiny told an NBC News crew, but her psychological condition was terrible.

I blew a balloon for her and tried to play with her to assure her that she is in safe hands at the hospital as much as possible, and there is hope, Alaauiny said.

Injured children arrive at Nasser Medical Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza. (Loay Ayyoub / The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Childrens bodies are particularly vulnerable to the impact of explosive weapons, Jason Lee, Save the Childrens country director for the occupied Palestinian territory, said in a statement earlier this week.

Their bodies are thrown harder and further by the blasts. Their bones bend more, increasing the chances of long-term deformities with little chance of recovery, Lee said. They have less blood to lose.

At the al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City, Dr. Ghassan Abu-Sittah estimated that almost half of the injured are children.

Most of the injuries are either like this injury, where theres a direct blast, the effect of that on the tissues of the body, or theres a burn, Abu-Sittah said, as he draped a patient in layers of gauze. Still more injured children were crowded into the hospitals hallways, waiting to be treated.

The bodies of children from the Nateel family with their names, Hani, left, and Layan, written on their legs by their parents to help in identification lie in the morgue of a hospital in Deir el-Balah, Gaza. (Bashar Taleb / AFP via Getty Images)

The surge in patients has been so large, Naseralldin Abutaha, an emergency nurse at the hospital, said that sometimes, we dont even have the time to console or calm a kid. We need to treat as many as we can, as fast as we can.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, 12 hospitals have shut down due to damage, or lack of supplies and fuel, along with another 32 primary health care centers, shifting the burden to facilities that remain open, but are overwhelmed and struggling to function.

With death looming seemingly indiscriminately, parents have begun writing the names of the children on their legs, so they can be identified if they are taken to hospitals or morgues.

At al-Shifa, Abutaha said medical staff have also begun writing names on the hands and legs of the children.

There are a lot of people dying, so we just write the name so their family can know them, Abutaha said. When the childs face is not left in a condition to be looked at, we dont allow families to look at childrens faces, he said. Its hurtful.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
After Greta Thunberg spoke out about the war between Israel and Hamas in October 2023, social media users shared a video purportedly showing the Swedish activist calling for the use of "biodegradable missiles" and "vegan hand grenades." But experts say the clip is a deepfake fabricated using artificial intelligence (AI) -- and the original BBC interview predates the conflict by months.

"BBC: @GretaThunberg calls on Hamas to prioritize the reduction of their carbon footprint when murdering, raping, beheading, mutilating, and kidnapping civilians," said Eli David, co-founder of the cybersecurity firm Deep Instinct, in an October 24, 2023 post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The post has since been deleted, but similar claims have circulated on other platforms.

"Talk about STUPIDITY IN ACTION," says an October 24 post on Facebook. "SERIOULY?? (sic) She wants Electris (sic) planes / Tanks ? Vegan Hand Grenades ??"

Screenshot of a now-deleted X post taken October 25, 2023

Screenshot of a Facebook post taken October 26, 2023

The narrative spread after Hamas gunmen stormed across the border from the Gaza Strip into Israel and carried out the deadliest attack since the country was created in 1948.

During the Palestinian Islamist group's surprise October 7 attack, throngs of fighters killed more than 1,400 people -- mostly civilians -- and kidnapped some 200 more, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said October 26 had killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near the border thrust across.

Many celebrities and public figures have expressed their horror over the violence in the Middle East, including Thunberg, who is a regular target of misinformation.

"Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza," she said in an October 20 post on X (archived here). "The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected."

Week 270. Today we strike in solidarity with Palestine and Gaza. The world needs to speak up and call for an immediate ceasefire, justice and freedom for Palestinians and all civilians affected.#FreePalestine#IStandWithPalestine#StandWithGaza#FridaysForFuture

Thread pic.twitter.com/0hVtya0yWO  Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) October 20, 2023

But claims that she called for a more climate-friendly conflict are inaccurate -- they stem from a manipulated BBC interview originally shared in jest.

In the clip, which has circulated on X, TikTok and Reddit, the 20-year-old environmentalist appears to say: "War's always bad, specifically for the planet. If we want to continue fighting battles like environmentally conscious humans, we must make the change to sustainable tanks and weaponry."

The posts credit the video to the X account @snicklink, which originally published the footage October 20 with #israel and #satire (archived here).

Hany Farid, a professor and digital forensics expert at the University of California-Berkeley, said the video is "a classic lip-sync deepfake in which the mouth region is replaced to be consistent with a new audio track."

"Throughout the video you can see both a de-synchronization between the mouth and audio (as in a dubbed movie from one language to another) and occasionally a misshapen mouth and teeth, which occurs when the AI generation fails to properly synthesize the mouth," Farid said October 25.

Kimberly Ton Mai, a PhD candidate at the University College of London who researches machine learning, agreed, saying October 25 that "other than the actual content of the video, the lips do not match up completely with the audio and are less sharp than the rest of the face."

Heather Cooper, an AI educator and consultant, added that Thunberg's neck and hands appear blurry at times.

"AI-generated video is improving, but it's simple to identify if you pay attention to the mouth, hands and body movements," she said October 25.

Screenshot taken October 25, 2023 of a deepfake video on social media, with elements highlighted by AI expert Heather Cooper

Screenshot taken October 25, 2023 of a deepfake video on social media, with elements highlighted by AI expert Heather Cooper

The BBC published the original, unaltered interview November 1, 2022 on YouTube (archived here). In it, Thunberg describes the first actions she took to fight climate change:

"Of course, when you are a child -- when you're like eight or 10 or 11 years old -- there is not much that you can really do to make a big difference, so then you start small. I started with turning off the lights at home to save energy and that led to another thing, which led to another thing. And eventually, I stopped flying, I became vegan and so on -- and then I got my parents to do that too ... And by making them change, it also gave me the sort of courage that I needed to move on, to start school striking. So, starting somewhere is really good."

AFP contacted @snicklink for comment on the deepfake, but a response was not forthcoming.

Digitally altered picture

Social media users have misrepresented other visuals of Thunberg amid the Israel-Hamas war.

A photo circulating on X purportedly shows the activist brandishing the flag of the Islamic State jihadist group and wearing a Hamas headband. But the image is an altered version of a picture Thunberg shared in a now-deleted October 20 X post, which featured no such paraphernalia.

Screenshot of a post on X taken October 26, 2023

AFP has fact-checked other misinformation about the Israel-Hamas war here.
Israel intensifies strikes on Gaza amid abject humanitarian situation

Xinhua) 09:23, October 26, 2023

Palestinians transfer an injured man after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

GAZA/BEIRUT, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement.

Over the past two days, Israel has intensified airstrikes and artillery shelling against the Gaza Strip, said Palestinian security sources and local eyewitnesses. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday Israel's aerial bombardment and artillery shellings have increased three-fold compared to previous days.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Wednesday that it identified at least two Hamas "terrorists" that attempted to infiltrate Israeli territory in the area of Zikim via the sea, after Hamas armed wing Al-Qassam Brigades said its fighters had infiltrated Israel's Zikim base in Ashkelon and clashed with its forces.

On Wednesday morning, the IDF said on social media platform X that its extensive attacks on Gaza during the past day had eliminated Hamas operatives and infrastructure, including tunnel shafts, military headquarters, munitions warehouses and mortar bomb and anti-tank missile launchers.

The Israeli airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off, were triggered by a large-scale Hamas attack on Israeli military targets and towns on Oct. 7, which has so far killed at least 1,400 people in Israel.

On Wednesday, 10 Palestinians were killed in an aircraft bombardment on "the only bakery" in the al-Mughazi refugee camp in central Gaza, which also destroyed several surrounding houses, said Salama Maarouf, head of the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, said only four of the 24 bakeries it contracted still supply bread for shelters, warning that most of the remaining ones might close soon due to fuel shortages.

Hamas media office said that Israel had bombed Gaza with more than 12,000 tons of explosives, equals to dropping 33 tons per square km, leading to the damages of more than 183,000 housing units, or 50 percent of all housing in Gaza.

Salama Maarouf said during a press conference that one person out of every 100 citizens in the Palestinian enclave was either killed or injured in Israel's continuous attacks, and about 1,400,000 people, or 70 percent of Gaza's population, have been internally displaced, many of whom seek refuge in 222 shelter centers.

Also on Tuesday, a Palestinian spokesman warned of a "total collapse" of the health system in Gaza due to power outage and the exhaustion of fuel needed to operate generators in hospitals.

Ashraf Al-Qudra, spokesman for the Gaza-based Health Ministry, told a press conference that Israeli attacks had so far killed 65 medical staff, destroyed 25 ambulances, and made 12 hospitals and 32 health centers in the Palestinian enclave inoperable.

Al-Qudra said Gaza faces a possible outbreak of infections, as 3,150 cases of diseases, ranging from diarrhea, food poisoning, scabies and bronchial infections were reported in a day since the ongoing conflict, with most of them reported among children, due to the lack of clean water and poor sanitation in shelter facilities.

At the same time, the Israeli army continued to threaten a ground invasion into Gaza, raising fears of prolonging the round of fighting and the possibility of expanding the escalation into a regional war.

IDF Chief-of-Staff Herzi Halevi said Tuesday the troops are honing tactical preparedness while awaiting a joint decision from "the political level regarding the essence and timing of the next stage."

Speaking to a Security Council open debate on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine on Tuesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed that the protection of civilians holds paramount importance in any armed conflicts, urging relevant parties to refrain from "using them as human shields" or ordering millions "to evacuate to the south, where there is no shelter, no food, no water, no medicine and no fuel, and then continuing to bomb the south itself."

Guterres voiced deep concern over "the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza," repeating his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

Tensions are also growing along the Israeli-Lebanese border and in Syria. In southern Lebanon, three Hezbollah fighters were killed on Wednesday evening by the Israeli army on the border, raising the total number of Hezbollah deaths to 44 since the fighting broke out, the Lebanese Shiite military group said in a statement.

Hezbollah said it had attacked the Israeli "Branit" barracks with missiles and artillery shells, and a military target near the Hadab Al-Bustan site in the western sector of the border with occupied Palestine and two Israeli sites of Hanita and Al-Bahri with guided missiles, destroying their equipment.

In Syria, the Aleppo International Airport in the north was damaged in an Israeli missile attack on Wednesday, hours after another missile launched from the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights killed eight Syrian military personnel in the southern province of Daraa, the Syrian army said.

Palestinians conduct rescue work at destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Palestinians are seen after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Smoke rises following Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Palestinians are seen on a street after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Palestinians conduct rescue work at destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Palestinians are seen on a street after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

Palestinians transfer an injured man after Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City, on Oct. 25, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Delaware Nation is bridging a 1,400-mile gap to reclaim its heritage with a new Tribal Historic Preservation Office on the ancestral homelands of its Lenape ancestors.

Thats according to a Memorandum of Understanding signed between the tribe and the university on Oct. 13. Headquartered in Anadarko, Oklahoma, the Delaware Nation set up the new office at Lehigh University in eastern Pennsylvania as part of a larger effort to protect its cultural resources and deal more effectively with tribal consultation and repatriation efforts.

The office on Lehigh's campus will be staffed by the Nations Tribal Historic Preservation Officer (THPO), non-tribal citizen Katelyn Lucas. Lucas will work to fulfill the departments goal of preserv[ing] the culture, history, ancestral lands, and sacred sites, objects of cultural patrimony, materials, and objects possessing ongoing cultural significance to the Delaware Nation.

Her role will include consulting under NAGPRA with museums and institutions in the Northeast that hold Lenape human remains and their burial objects, as well as informing educational initiatives on Lenape history for tribal citizens and the general public, Lucas said.

Much of this work naturally occurs within the original Lenape homeland region. Since tribal headquarters and most of Delaware Nation's citizens and staff are located in Oklahoma, the frequent need to travel to Lenape homelands for consultations is often a challenge, Lucas wrote in response to Native News Onlines questions. It is essential to have an office for tribal staff within the homeland region so that Delaware Nation can more easily and effectively respond to consultation requests and be present for various work in their homeland region.

Before they were forced by settlers to move west, Lenape people once lived on lands that are now occupied by six states in the Northeast: Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, and parts of New York, Connecticut, and Maryland.

Today, the Lenape people are among five federally recognized nations in the U.S. and Canada: the Delaware Nation of Oklahoma and the Delaware Tribe of Indians, in Oklahoma; the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican Band of Indians, in Wisconsin; and the Munsee-Delaware Nation and the Delaware Nation at Moraviantown, in Ontario.

The Delaware Nations historic oversight includes areas in 18 states, according to the Nations website.

Our hope is that Katelyn will be able to respond to inadvertent discoveries, any consultations that she needs to do, quicker than us having to send someone up to Pennsylvania, Delaware Nation president Deborah Dotson told Native News Online. My hope is that we can keep the office at Lehigh forever. It's a great collaboration between the two of us.

The Nation completed its last repatriation in April 2022, when it reburied the remains of nearly 200 Lenape ancestors and their burial objects that were held for decades by universities and institutions across the country. Those institutions included the Phoebe Hearst Museum of Anthropology in Berkeley, California; the Field Museum in Chicago; the Robert S. Peabody Institute of Archaeology in Massachusetts; the Peabody Museum at Harvard University; the American Museum of Natural History in New York City; Temple University; the University of Pennsylvania; and the New Jersey State Museum.

Each ancestor had been dug up from a ceremonial burial area in New Jersey between the late 1800s and the 1980s, Susan Bachor, the Delaware tribes deputy tribal historic preservation officer, said at the time. The human remains were then given or sold to individual collectors, universities, and institutions, where they remained for decades, some for more than a century.

Delaware Nation's historic preservation office is currently involved in many ongoing NAGPRA consultations, which it works on in collaboration with the other federally recognized Lenape tribal nations, according to Lucas.

The Lenape people just have this much larger area of interest, because of their long long removal pathway, Lucas told Native News Online. They have that core homeland range that we're dealing with, but they also have all those states that they followed along the way. So it is a big problem and it is going to take many years to get all these ancestors and their artifacts returned.

The new office and MOU are part of a larger effort at Lehigh and throughout the state to cultivate and represent a true history of the Lenape people.

On Oct. 13, at the MOU signing ceremony, Lehighs Institute for Indigenous Studies (IIS) announced another initiative, backed by a $200,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission.

The two-year planning grant, which was awarded to the Pennsylvania Tourism Office who enlisted the help of Lehighs IIS, will allow researchers to engage with Lenape tribal communities the first year. Researchers overseeing the grant project include Jason Hale (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation of Kansas), a senior research scientist in the College of Health and IIS; Carly Camplain, (Comanche Nation of Oklahoma), an assistant professor in the Department of Community and Population Health; Lehigh history professor Michelle LeMaster; and Christine Makosky Daley, co-director for the Institute for Indigenous Studies.

Sean Daley, IIS director, said that researchers will be working with federally recognized Lenape tribes to develop a plan on how best to highlight Pennsylvanias Indigenous histories, as well as contemporary Native culture. In the second year of the grant, he said, that research will be conveyed to the non-Native tribal entities and potential partners in the state also interested in accurate Lenape representation.

A lot of this discussion has been about bringing [Leanpe people] into contemporary context, not just the truth, but the vibrancy of contemporary Indigenous peoples, Daley told Native News Online. Growing up in New Jersey, we were all convinced in the fourth grade when we learned about Indian people that they were gone. And thats how people around here think about it. Not every museum exhibit has to be in the context of the 1600s or 1700s. Look what the Lenape are doing today.

About the Author: "Jenna Kunze is a staff reporter covering Indian health, the environment and breaking news for Native News Online. She is also the lead reporter on stories related to Indian boarding schools and repatriation. Her bylines have appeared in The Arctic Sounder, High Country News, Indian Country Today, Tribal Business News, Smithsonian Magazine, Elle and Anchorage Daily News. Kunze is based in New York."

Contact: jkunze@indiancountrymedia.com
Joe Biden with Benjamin Netanyahu during the US President's visit to Israel

The Israeli prime minister's ambiguous announcement of a Gaza ground invasion suits the United States - and is almost certainly influenced by it.

Benjamin Netanyahu gave no timeline for the offensive, but CBS, the BBC's US partner, has learned that it's been delayed.

Washington has been coy about its role, but clear about the advantages of taking more time.

US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he'd suggested that, if possible, Mr Netanyahu should wait until Hamas released more hostages, "but I did not demand it".

His comment encapsulates the US approach to Israel's war with the Palestinian militant group - full support for its determination to eradicate Hamas after an unprecedented attack on Israeli civilians earlier this month, alongside concerns about the consequences of its response.

The administration certainly wants to take full advantage of any window of opportunity to free Hamas captives, which will likely be closed when Israeli ground troops move into Gaza.

There are more than 200 hostages, including some Americans. The release of four in recent days has raised hopes that others could follow.

But for the Pentagon the paramount concern is rushing defensive systems into the region following attacks on American forces in Iraq and Syria by Iran-backed militias.

More on Israel-Gaza war

This has increased concerns of a regional escalation once the Gaza invasion begins, and the US is using the delay to shore up protection for its interests.

The State Department has already authorised the departure of non-essential staff from embassies in Iraq and Lebanon, the latter the base of the powerful Hezbollah movement, which has been exchanging cross-border rocket fire with Israel.

It's also developing contingency plans for a wider evacuation of US citizens in the region should it be deemed necessary.

In the meantime, it's been engaged in the most intensive round of diplomacy since Mr Biden took office, after Secretary of State Antony Blinken conducted a whirlwind tour of the Middle East to try and prevent a wider flare-up.

Calls to halt fighting

And at the United Nations, a resolution drafted by the US sums up its evolving approach to the conflict.

The humanitarian catastrophe caused by the Israeli siege on Gaza has tempered administration rhetoric about Israel's "obligation" to deal a punishing blow to Hamas.

"We solicited input," said the United States UN Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. "We listened. We engaged with all [Security] Council members to incorporate edits, including language on humanitarian pauses and the protection of civilians fleeing conflict."

Nevertheless, the resolution was vetoed by Russia and China because, they said, it didn't call for a ceasefire.

America's Arab allies - Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Jordan, the UAE and the Palestinian Authority - lined up to call for a halt to the fighting, after a day-long Security Council meeting dominated by demands for a ceasefire.

Many of them are no fans of Hamas, and some may want to see it defeated, but Israel's blockade and bombardment of Gaza is shaping their response.

However, a ceasefire right now "only benefits Hamas", said White House spokesman, John Kirby.

And although the resolution contains robust language about the need to respect international law, the State Department has not made a formal determination on whether Israel is in fact doing so, as part of its intense bombing campaign it says is aimed at destroying Hamas infrastructure.

Palestinians react at the site of Israeli strikes on houses, as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip

The air strikes have demolished whole neighbourhoods in Gaza City and killed more than 7,000 civilians, a third of them children, says the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.

President Biden said he has "no confidence" in the figures.

And the State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller maintained that Israel was hitting "legitimate military targets that are embedded in civilian infrastructure", adding that the US was trying to establish safe zones for civilians inside Gaza.

There hasn't been any word of progress with that. But the Americans have been able to open a trickle of aid into Gaza through its border with Egypt and are working around the clock to widen it.

'It's like a puzzle'

Mr Biden appointed a veteran diplomat, David Satterfield, to the task. He's also trying to organise the departure of Palestinians with US citizenship, and other foreign nationals.

"You can imagine how complicated it is," says a State Department Spokesperson. "We're dealing with Israel, Egypt, and Hamas, and we're not talking directly to Hamas."

"It's like a puzzle, where you unlock a layer that can unlock one little piece of it. And then another obstacle pops up and you've got to go figure out with all the parties, how to unlock that piece."

It is not clear what will happen to this nascent humanitarian corridor once the ground invasion begins. But Washington has been pressing Israel on its strategy and tactics.

It has dispatched US military officers who have experienced urban combat in Iraq to ask "some of the hard questions that the IDF [Israel Defense Forces] should consider as they plan various scenarios," says Pentagon Spokesperson Brig Gen Patrick Ryder, "including advice on mitigating civilian casualties."

Along with very real concerns about a spiralling conflict, the US is probably attempting to reposition itself after its initial "one-sided response" in support of Israel provoked criticism, says Stephen Walt, a professor of international affairs at Harvard University.

"It's very likely they're aware that this conflict is not playing well for the United States or for Israel in the rest of the world," he says. "In much of the Global South we're seen as deeply hypocritical, actively opposing Russian occupation in Ukraine, for all the right reasons, and doing very little about Israeli occupation [of the Palestinians] over a 50-, 60-year period."

The administration has been clear that it sees the scale and brutality of this Hamas attack, killing more than 1,400 people, as different from others in the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

But its intensive engagement suggests it fears that even if Israel wins the battle against Hamas, when it comes to public opinion and regional costs, it may lose the war.
DELPHI, Ind.  Accused Delphi killer Richard Allen's attorney, Brad Rozzi, refused Thursday to resign from the case, as he indicated he would do after last week's hearing. In turn, Rozzi plans to remain on the case and called for Special Judge France Gull to disqualify herself for violating the judicial code of conduct.

Rozzi was supposed to resign from Allen's case, as per an in-chambers conference with Gull on Oct. 19. Allen's other defense attorney, Andrew Baldwin, resigned after a leak of evidence was discovered in his office.

While Rozzi presented his written intentions in a filing published Thursday to continue to represent Allen, Gull published her order Thursday, ousting him from the case.

Richard Allen's attorneys took this photo April 4, 2023, of the man accused of the Delphi killings of teenagers Libby German and Abby Williams.

"Prior to the scheduled hearing this date, Attorneys Rozzi and Baldwin advise the Court they will be withdrawing their representation of the defendant," Gull wrote in an order published Thursday that summarized the Oct. 19 hearing. "Court accepts their representations and orders them withdrawn from the cause. Counsel ordered to comply with the previously entered Protective Order on Discovery and are ordered to turn the discovery over in full to the State of Indiana to be made available to successor counsel."

Gull's order is the formal docket entry from the Oct. 19 hearing in Fort Wayne, and does not appear to be responsive to Rozzi's filings published Thursday.

Rozzi characterized the Oct. 19 in-chamber hearing in both his motion for Gull's removal and his filing that he intends to stay on the case.

The in-chamber hearing was Gull forcing Rozzi and Baldwin to resign or she would publicly shame them before ordering their removal from the case, according to Rozzi's filing.

Judge gave attorneys two options: Withdraw, or be disqualified

"... (T)he court communicated to Attorneys Rozzi and Baldwin that there were two distinct options," Rozzi wrote in his intent to continue representing Allen, who is accused of killing Libby German and Abby Williams on Feb. 13, 2017.

"(E)ither voluntarily withdraw their appearances and exit the courthouse in advance of the hearing," Rozzi wrote about the Oct. 19 in-chamber hearing in Fort Wayne, "or ... participate in the 2:00 p.m. hearing in the courtroom where a media camera was installed, the national media was present, and the law enforcement community was seated in the jury box directly behind defense counsel, at which time the Court would read the the prepared statement into the record and then disqualify both Attorney Rozzi and Attorney Baldwin in the presences of Defendant Allen, his family and the general public."

"... Attorney Rozzi's oral acquiescence to withdraw his appearance as Defendant Allen's attorney was forced, coerced and driven only by the circumstances created by the Tribunal which delivered two terrible options: quit or be shamed in public before being 'disqualified' from representing Mr. Allen," Rozzi wrote in his notice to the court to continue representing Allen, calling the court's threat to frame their advocacy as "gross negligence."

"... As of October 24th, Defendant Allen objects to the Court's attempts to strip him of his current counsel," Rozzi's notice to continue as Allen's attorney states.

A new defense team at this point in Allen's case likely will further delay Allen's trial and compromise his defense, Rozzi wrote, adding that nothing in the rules of professional conduct warranted Rozzi's withdrawal from Allen's case.

"Attorney Rozzi notices up this Court of his intention to move forward with the representation of Defendant Allen until a final disposition of this matter," Rozzi writes.

A call for Judge Gull to recuse herself

In a second filing that was published Thursday, Rozzi calls for Gull to recuse herself, questioning her impartiality.

Rozzi claimed that Gull repeatedly sealed defense motions, including the Franks motion and supporting 136-page memorandum, as well as three affidavits from prison officials and an affidavit from an accused leaker. However, she has not sealed the prosecution's filings.

Rozzi cites Indiana's Access to Court Records Rule, noting that records are supposed to be open to public inspection, except for specific examples, none of which applied to Allen's case, according to the motion.

"By secreting pleadings from the docket without following the Access to Court Record Rules, Judge Gull has, or has allowed, violation of public access," Rozzi writes in his motion for Gull to recuse herself. "Because those acts have only shielded documents from the defendant, these actions clearly demonstrate a lack of impartiality and fairness in violation of Judicial Rule 1.1. ..."

Rozzi's motion calling for Gull's recusal also cited the Oct. 19 in-chambers discussion that forced him and Baldwin from the case.

In the motion for Gull's removal, Rozzi lists several complaints Gull has made against the defense, and Rozzi offers the explanations for the defense's decisions.

"The Court alleged that Mr. Baldwin put improper statements in his Frank's memorandum. Not false or misleading statements, just improper in her opinion," Rozzi wrote.

A Frank's hearing is a part of a motion to suppress in which the defense alleges law enforcement misled the court in order to get a search warrant. Therefore, the evidence from that warrant should be suppressed, according to motions filed by Allen's attorneys.

In response to this allegation of improper statements, Rozzi defends their actions, writing, "The court had disdain for the defense for not filing it under seal even though there was no order to do so. That memorandum was demanded by the prosecution before there could be a Frank's hearing.

"It is an impressive piece of legal writing and has been lauded by expert defense counsel across the nation. It again was required by applicable guidelines," he wrote.

All totaled, Rozzi alleges in his motion for recusal that Gull violated six rules of judicial conduct.

Rozzi also filed a motion asking for transcripts of the in-chambers hearing Gull held on Oct. 19 in Allen County.

Lastly, Rozzi filed a motion to continue the Oct. 31 hearing. He cites several pending motions before the court, including the motion for Gull's recusal published Thursday, and notes that it will take more than a day's worth of hearing to vet all of the motions before the court.

Gull's order published Thursday, which appears to summarize the Oct. 19 hearing, indicates that the Oct. 31 hearing will continue.

"Court will maintain the hearing currently scheduled for October 31, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in the Carroll Circuit Court for successor counsel to appear," she wrote. "Clerk of the Carroll Circuit Court ordered to remove Attorneys Baldwin and Rozzi as attorneys of record in this cause."

No new attorneys have filed yet to represent Allen as of late Thursday afternoon.

Reach Ron Wilkins at rwilkins@jconline.com. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Attorney for Delphi murder suspect says he will stay on the case
Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilcrhist, left, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and attorney general Dana Nessel attend a community support event at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, in Southfield, Michigan on October 9, 2023. Many top Michigan Democrats, including Gov. Whitmer, took part in a huge pro-Israel rally near Detroit after the Hamas Oct. 7 attack on the country. None of them attended a rally in nearby Dearborn the next day to show support for Palestinians in Gaza being killed or forced from their homes by the Israeli militarys response. The war has inflamed tensions between Jews and Muslims everywhere, including the Detroit area, which is home to several heavily Jewish suburbs and Dearborn, the city with the largest concentration of Arab Americans in the U.S. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP)

DEARBORN, Michigan (AP)  Many of Michigan's top Democrats, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer , took part in a huge pro-Israel rally at a suburban Detroit synagogue days after Hamas' deadly attack on the country earlier this month, with some of them dancing and joining in chants of Am Yisrael Chai  Hebrew for The people of Israel live.

None of them attended a rally in nearby Dearborn the next day to show support for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip who were being killed or forced from their homes by the Israeli military's response.

The war between Israel and Hamas has inflamed tensions between Jews and Muslims around the world, including the Detroit area, which is home to several heavily Jewish suburbs and Dearborn, the city with the largest concentration of Arab Americans in the U.S. The strong show of support for Israel by Michigan's leading Democrats, though, has offended many of their Muslim supporters and could affect how this key bloc votes next fall in the presidential battleground state.

There is going to be an effort to not support the people who have not supported us. The people that we voted for for such a long time  people that weve helped, weve donated to and weve worked on their campaigns," said Adam Abusalah, a 22-year-old Palestinian American from Dearborn.

In Dearborn, which borders Detroit, nearly half of the roughly 110,000 residents claim Arab ancestry. Thousands of other Arab Americans live elsewhere in Wayne County, including Hamtramck, which is the country's first majority-Muslim city and has an all-Muslim city council.

After Donald Trump won Michigan by fewer than 11,000 votes in 2016, Wayne County and its large Muslim communities helped Joe Biden retake the state for the Democrats in 2020 by a roughly 154,000-vote margin. Biden enjoyed a roughly 3-to-1 advantage in Dearborn and 5-1 advantage in Hamtramck, and he won Wayne County by more than 330,000 votes.

Democrats have similarly benefitted from the Detroit area's heavy support at the state level, regaining full control of the Legislature while already holding the governor's mansion last year for the first time since 1983.

Ten miles (16 kilometers) north of Dearborn is Southfield, which is home to one of the area's thriving Jewish communities and where an estimated 2,500 people gathered Oct. 9 for the pro-Israel rally. Among them were a who's who of Michigan Democrats, including Whitmer, U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, two U.S. House members, the secretary of state and the state attorney general.

Whitmer told the crowd that we stand with Israel and that Israel has a right to defend itself.

She also acknowledged the Palestinian suffering in an email response the following week, telling The Associated Press, In Michigan, we have so many families who are feeling the trauma and mourning the loss of Israeli and Palestinian lives. Our strength as a state is our ability to bring people together to get through difficult times.

Robyn Lederman, a Jewish attorney from West Bloomfield Hills who lived in Israel for eight years, said such shows of support are important for the grieving Jewish community. She said her family learned through social media on Oct. 7  the day Hamas militants rampaged through southern Israel, killing more than 1,400 people and abducting more than 200 others  that a young Israeli woman her family hosted in 2012 was missing. Soon after, they learned that the woman, 25-year-old Maya Puder, was one of the more than 260 people who were killed while at an outdoor music festival.

This has brought to the forefront where people stand based on their reaction, said Lederman. More people must take a stand that is anti-terror against Israel and Jews.

The state's Democratic leaders were notably not among the hundreds of people who turned out for the Oct. 10 pro-Palestinian rally at a performing arts center in Dearborn. Three Democratic state representatives spoke at the event, and businessman Nasser Beydoun, a Democratic U.S. Senate candidate whose family immigrated to the United States from Lebanon, specifically called out Whitmer, Peters and Lieutenant Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II for missing the event.

They're not here with us today because they were busy dancing yesterday, Beydoun said as the crowd booed. I want you to remember that.

Differences over what's happening in Israel and Gaza were laid bare in the Legislature, where Democrats have been divided over pro-Israel resolutions like those that some other state legislatures have passed with near unanimity.

In the state House, a pro-Israel resolution that was introduced with bipartisan support is no longer expected to pass due to objections from some Democrats. Abraham Aiyash, the Democratic floor leader in the chamber, strongly opposed the resolution. Aiyash, who grew up in Hamtramck after his parents immigrated from Yemen, said that if were going to condemn terror, we must condemn the terror and the violence that the Palestinian people have endured for decades."

The state Senate opted to write its own resolution after the Houses stalled for more than a week. It was introduced by the chambers lone Jewish lawmaker, Jeremy Moss, and passed easily with bipartisan support.

Moss, a Democrat whose district includes Southfield and other large Jewish communities, criticized what he called inflammatory responses from House Democrats on Israels right to exist. He told the AP that it was important to stand in solidarity with a community thats really hurt.

The situation in Michigan reflects broader tensions throughout the United States, with smaller disagreements having surfaced among state and local officials in North Carolina, Ohio, Wisconsin and California.

In Congress, the war has forced Democrats back to a familiar place where the establishments history of unconditional loyalty to Israel is being tested. Biden and other top U.S. officials have pledged broad support for the Israeli government. But some in the party's progressive wing, including U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Detroit, have been calling for cease-fire and a reevaluation of U.S. military aid to Israel over concerns that it could be used to commit war crimes.

Tlaib is the lone Palestinian American in Congress and her grandmother still lives in the West Bank. She has been widely criticized by members of both parties  including fellow Michigan Democrats  who say she hasn't explicitly faulted Hamas for the Oct. 7 attack.

Were in a really tense political environment and I think leaders are supposed to project calm and ease these tensions, said Moss, whose district Tlaib partially represents. Its been very troubling to see responses from my congresswoman on this that I think have heightened the tensions.

Those tensions are palpable. Many feared the worst when learning that a Detroit synagogue leader, Samantha Woll, was found stabbed to death outside of her home. Police have since said theyve found no evidence of antisemitism as a motive, but her killing has nevertheless stoked worries about people committing hate crimes in the area.

A 41-year-old man was arrested on Oct. 12 for threatening on social media to go to the Dearborn area to hunt Palestinians," according to police. Days later, community and religious leaders gathered outside Dearborn's police station, where they criticized Biden and other Democrats of neglecting the Muslim and Arab American communities.

In 2024, Democrats are going to have a problem with Arab Americans. For too long, theyve isolated Arab American voices within the party. They've isolated the perspectives of Arab Americans. And on this specific issue, they've denied even recognizing the human rights of Palestinians," Democratic state Rep. Alabas Farhat, of Dearborn, told the AP.

___

Fernando reported from Chicago. Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.

___

For more AP coverage of U.S. politics and the Israel-Hamas war: https://apnews.com
Democrats in the House and Senate on Thursday introduced a bill aimed at cracking down on the illegal use of child labor, as regulators cite an increase in cases around the U.S.

The legislation, from Rep. Rosa DeLauro (Conn.) and Sens. Bob Casey (Pa.) and Patty Murray (Wash.), would ramp up fines for child labor violations and hold big corporations responsible for the actions of the smaller businesses they contract with.

The subcontracting provision is significant because the children working in name-brand meatpacking plants and other settings are often technically employed by outside companies, like cleaning contractors. Under current law, it is typically the subcontractor thats hit with fines.

Murray said in a statement that she was disturbed by reports of migrant children getting maimed in the workplace and called for real action at the federal level to crack down on illegal and exploitative child labor.

This is about protecting vulnerable children from exploitation and abusetheres no reason Congress shouldnt be able to act, she added.

The children working in name-brand meatpacking plants and other settings are often technically employed by outside companies.

The recent public concern around child labor stems largely from the investigative reporting of The New York Times Hannah Dreier. She published a series of stories documenting the dangerous work done by migrant children who left Latin American countries for the U.S. Many kids wound up performing hazardous duties in meatpacking plants, including cleaning heavy machinery.

A Labor Department official said earlier this year that the agency had seen a 50% increase in child labor violations since 2015. The cases came in two forms: children working more hours than were legally allowed for minors, or children performing hazardous tasks meant for adults, and sometimes getting injured.

We are seeing children who are being employed where they never should be in the first place, Jessica Looman, who runs the agencys Wage and Hour Division, said in February.

A photo from a Labor Department court filing shows a Packers Sanitation Services employee working in a meatpacking plant.

A photo from a Labor Department court filing shows a Packers Sanitation Services employee working in a meatpacking plant.

In one highly publicized case, the Labor Department said it found that Packers Sanitation Services Inc. had employed more than 100 minors at meat processing facilities, where they handled hazardous chemicals and cleaned dangerous machinery. Kids as young as 13 allegedly worked in plants owned by meatpacking giants JBS and Cargill, among others.

Packers Sanitation Services agreed to pay $1.5 million in civil penalties to resolve the case. A spokesperson for Casey, the Pennsylvania Democrat who co-sponsored the new bill, confirmed that the legislation is meant to expose meatpacking companies to fines in such a situation, as opposed to just the cleaning contractor.

The bill would also raise civil fines for child labor from the current $11,000 to $151,380 for each child involved in a violation. Criminal penalties would increase from a maximum of $10,000 to $750,000 for child labor convictions, according to Democrats one-page summary of the proposal.

The legislation would also authorize the labor secretary to label goods that have been produced with child labor, and issue stop-work orders against companies caught violating the law.
Democratic Gov. Andy Beshears reelection bid in Kentucky has emerged as a critical test of how the fight over abortion rights will shape the political landscape ahead of the 2024 presidential election.

The Democratic incumbents focus on abortion rights  in a Republican-leaning state where abortions are outlawed in virtually all cases  comes in a race featuring cultural crosscurrents, as GOP nominee Daniel Cameron, the state attorney general, hammers Beshear over transgender issues, pandemic-era shutdowns and more.

Beshear is seeking to buck the trend of states snapping back to their partisan foundations in gubernatorial races. Deep-blue Maryland and Massachusetts last year elected Democratic governors after eight years of moderate Republican chief executives. And reliably red Louisiana earlier this month chose Republican Jeff Landry as its replacement for term-limited Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Its left just two states with governors dramatically at odds with their states typical partisan leanings: Kansas and Kentucky.

What those two states have in common: In the wake of Roe v. Wades reversal by the Supreme Court last year, voters in both states rejected anti-abortion ballot measures.

In Kansas, Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly was narrowly reelected in 2022 after running a campaign against Republican Attorney General Derek Schmidt that focused on the economy, tax cuts and education.

Now, in Kentucky, Beshear is similarly touting economic wins and sharing credit with the Republican-led state legislature. And Beshear, the son of a former governor, is popular  while nonpartisan public polling of the race is limited, both Republican and Democratic groups have released polls in recent months showing him ahead of Cameron.

But he is also leaning much more aggressively than Kelly did in her race into his differences with Cameron on abortion.

As the result of a 2019 law that took effect when the US Supreme Court reversed Roes federal abortion rights protections, Kentucky currently bans the procedure in all cases, except when the life of the mother is in jeopardy. The states law does not include exceptions for cases of rape or incest.

Beshears campaign has aired a series of television ads focused on the issue  including a searing attack on Cameron featuring Hadley Duvall, a 21-year-old woman who discussed the trauma of being raped by her stepfather as she lambasted the Republican attorney general for failing to support exemptions to Kentuckys abortion ban for cases of rape and incest.

This is to you, Daniel Cameron, she says in the ad, looking directly into a camera. To tell a 12-year-old girl she must have the baby of her stepfather who raped her is unthinkable.

Cameron responded to Duvalls criticism, saying at a forum hosted by Spectrum News 1 that he cannot comprehend just how traumatic that experience was. And my heart goes out to her. And I want her to know that.

But when it comes to the issue of life, look, this is a delicate issue, Cameron said. I was at church a couple of weeks ago, and our pastor talked about this issue in particular. We need to speak gently and kindly because it is such a sensitive issue, and there are a range of different viewpoints on the question of life. Mine happens to evolve from my position on faith and my relationship with Christ, and I think as a person of faith, I have a responsibility to protect the unborn.

Abortion dominates debates

Over five debates in recent weeks, Beshear has returned again and again to the issue of abortion.

He cannot and he will not look into the camera and tell girls like Hadley that they deserve exceptions and he will support them. These are little kids that he would force to carry the baby of their rapist. That is wrong, thats extreme and thats not who we are as Kentuckians, Beshear said at a debate last week.

Cameron said he would sign into law a bill that would add exceptions for cases of rape and incest to Kentuckys abortion law, if he is elected and sent one by the states GOP-led legislature.

However, Beshear said: What you couldnt and didnt hear him say is that he supports, personally, exceptions for victims of rape and incest.

The Democratic governor pointed to a Kentucky Right to Life survey on which Cameron said he opposes those exceptions.

He signed his name. When someone shows you who they are, believe them, Beshear said.

Cameron, meanwhile, criticized Beshear for his April 2022 veto of a bill that would have banned abortion after 15 weeks. That veto came before the Supreme Court had overturned Roe v. Wade.

His largest campaign contributor outside of Joe Biden is Planned Parenthood. So dont be at all fooled by the fact that Andy Beshear wont tell you what he wants in terms of limits, because what he wants is no limits and the taxpayer to pay for it, Cameron said.

Beshear said he had vetoed that bill because it had no exceptions for rape and incest, showing exactly where (Cameron) is on it. The Democratic governor has also said he opposes late-term abortions.

Cameron criticized Beshear for his 2021 decision to allow a bill that required doctors to perform life-saving care on any infant who shows signs of life  including surviving an abortion attempt  to become law without his signature.

You heard TV Andy, who tells you what you want to hear. But Frankfort Andy does the exact opposite, Cameron said.

Outside Democratic groups have hammered Cameron on abortion too.

Defending Bluegrass Values, a political action committee backed by the Democratic Governors Association, last week launched an ad that features a woman who says she had learned at her 20-week ultrasound that her baby would be born with a serious birth defect called anencephaly, which would have prevented the childs survival.

We had to end the pregnancy. But if Daniel Cameron had gotten his way, it would have forced us to give birth to our child with no brain, the woman said.

Cameron greets supporters in Lexington on October 23, 2023, ahead of the gubernatorial debate with Beshear. - Kentucky Educational Television/AP

Cameron focuses on education and pandemic policies

In an attempt to redirect the races focus  and shift it onto seemingly friendlier ground for Republican positions  Cameron has sharply criticized Beshear over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, blaming him for student learning loss after school closures in 2020.

If he had been governor, Cameron said at a debate Monday night, he would have acted like other GOP chief executives who tried to get their states open as quickly as possible.

But Andy Beshear, like (California Gov.) Gavin Newsom, tried to shut this state down for nearly two years, Cameron said.

Cameron would not address whether he would have broken with Donald Trump on pandemic policies, when the then-president relied on health experts advice in the spring and summer of 2020.

You have to do whats hard when youre in a 1-in-100-year pandemic, Beshear said. He couldnt even answer a question about whether he would have made one or two decisions, and I had to make them every day. These were battlefield decisions.

Beshear said he waited to send teachers back to classrooms until theyd been prioritized to receive Covid-19 vaccines. He also said Cameron would have sent teachers back to school before the vaccine was available. Beshear signed an executive order in March 2021 encouraging schools to return to in-person learning; later that month, he signed into law a bill requiring at least some in-person instruction.

It was real, and acting like it wasnt  acting like we shouldnt have taken those steps  is a slap in the face to health care workers, the governor said.

Cameron said Beshear was to blame for test results that showed large numbers of students struggling across core subjects, including reading, math and science.

This governor, because of pride, wont tell you that he has regrets, Cameron said.

The clash between Beshear and Cameron over education has also focused on private school vouchers, which are illegal under the Kentucky constitutions ban on taxation for non-public schools without voters approval.

At Monday nights debate, Cameron refused to directly answer a question about whether he supports private school vouchers.

He pointed to an education plan he has touted on the campaign trail, which he said is focused on catching up kids from the shutdown, and asserted that he would support primarily our public school system.

He did not directly answer when the moderator followed up twice. Beshear jumped in to accuse Cameron of dodging the question three times.

Look in a camera and answer the question. I oppose vouchers, 100%. They steal money from our public schools and send it to our private schools, Beshear said. Whats concerning is, he wont be honest with you and answer a direct question.

Cameron said he agrees that we need to expand opportunity and choice but again pivoted to criticizing Beshear for school shutdowns during the coronavirus pandemic.

Andy Beshear shut you down for two years. Your kids are behind on learning  reading, science and math, Cameron said. The pandemic began in March 2020; Beshear signed a bill approved by the Republican-led legislature requiring schools to return to in-person instruction by March 29, 2021.

Beshear again pointed out that Cameron was not directly addressing his position on vouchers, before the GOP nominee finally conceded that he would sign a voucher plan into law if sent one by the Republican-led legislature.

He wont be honest enough with your viewers to say a view that we all know that he has, Beshear said.

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Once new electoral maps get approved in North Carolina, critics always look to the same place to force changes: the courts.

Things are different now, though, with the state Supreme Courts new Republican majority ruling in April that it had no jurisdiction over claims of partisan gerrymandering.

Seemingly armed with impunity to draw districts that favor their party, there may only be one valid legal challenge opponents can bring against Republican leaders: racial gerrymandering.

Top Republicans, likely expecting litigation, have exhaustively repeated that the maps they approved Wednesday for the 2024 elections for Congress and the legislature were drawn without using racial data. But Democratic lawmakers, legal experts and activists are already alleging that the new maps violate federal law by diluting the votes of Black residents in key areas across the state.

This is minority rule fighting to preserve a political gerrymander on the back of Black communities, poor communities and rural communities, Kyle Brazile, with the NC Counts Coalition, said at a press conference before the final map votes. The legislature has designed district maps that, despite the growth of so many of these communities, are meticulously drawn to weaken the influence and political power of the growing communities of color across North Carolina.

These accusations could form the foundation for the next round of gerrymandering trials in a state that has fought the same battles  and often lost them  for decades.

What would a legal challenge look like?

Just a few months ago, following a series of major rulings advancing conservative interests, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down an Alabama redistricting plan for violating the federal Voting Rights Act. The court found that the Republican-drawn map diluted the voting power of Black voters, who make up 27% of the state.

The ruling offered some hope for North Carolina voting rights activists, who had worried that the courts conservative majority would be unlikely to side with them on gerrymandering challenges.

It is, in fact, the second time in recent history that the court has upheld some level of commitment to oppose gerrymandering. In a case out of North Carolina, the court in June rejected a controversial elections theory, put forth by top Republicans, that would have given state legislatures full authority to create redistricting plans without the opportunity for judicial review.

Still, Irving Joyner, a law professor at N.C. Central University who has litigated North Carolina gerrymandering cases in the past, said any legal challenge to the maps could be an uphill challenge, considering the partisan composition of the courts.

Those rulings give me more hope than I had before, Joyner told The News & Observer. But that is not strong hope.

A successful legal challenge to new maps would likely need to focus on the Voting Rights Act, which bans voting practices that are racially discriminatory, or the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S Constitution.

Republicans have stressed that they did not use racial data to create the maps, implying that no racial animus prohibited under the VRA guided mapmaking. However, critics charge that lawmakers actually should be using racial data to ensure that the votes of racial minorities arent illegally diluted.

Democrats pointed to Chief Justice John Roberts opinion in the Alabama redistricting case, in which he notes that section 2 of the VRA demands consideration of race.

A major U.S. Supreme Court case out of North Carolina, Thornburg v. Gingles, sets up a test for proving vote dilution under the VRA. Plaintiffs must show a racial group sufficiently large and geographically compact to constitute a majority in a single-member district. They must also prove that that racial group is politically cohesive, meaning its members tend to vote the same way, and that the racial majority is likely to vote as a bloc against candidates chosen by the minority.

Although lawmakers did release racial statistics for the new districts after maps were released, proving Gingles conditions generally involves conducting a racially polarized voting study, which Republican lawmakers said they did not do prior to drawing maps.

My understanding is that theres not been presented any evidence that would justify the performance of such a thing, Senate leader Phil Berger told reporters on Tuesday.

Further insight into Republicans motivations when drawing maps will be difficult to gain, considering a provision slipped into this years state budget that removes redistricting drafts and communications from the public record.

What districts could be challenged?

Several key districts in both the congressional and legislative maps have ignited concerns among voting rights advocates, who allege that Republican leaders are weakening the voting power of Black residents.

Of particular concern is the 1st Congressional District, which currently includes much of Eastern North Carolina. Represented by Democratic Rep. Don Davis, of Greene County, the district, as it was drawn in 2022, includes a large population of Black residents, making up about 41% of the area.

Under the new maps, NC-1, which was already somewhat competitive, becomes considerably more so. Pitt County, including Greenville, and Franklin County are removed from the district while Currituck, Camden, Wayne, Lenoir and part of Granville counties are added.

African-American communities that could be joined together to make an electable district have not been included and instead, more white areas and counties have been commingled with those traditional African-American communities to take away voting strength that African-Americans would otherwise have, Joyner said.

The current map for NC-1 leans Democrat by about 4 percentage points, per data analyzed using the website Daves Redistricting. The new map would only lean Democrat by about 1.5 points.

Former U.S. Rep. G.K. Butterfield, a Democrat who represented NC-1 before Davis, said the new maps will disadvantage an area that already struggles with poverty.

It is a political and a racial gerrymander, he told the N&O. And it does not represent the demographics of North Carolina and I think it should be challenged.

Outside of the congressional map, several legislative districts have been called into question.

The Southern Coalition for Social Justice sent a letter to Republican leaders on Oct. 22 saying that Senate Districts 1 and 2, which take up much of Eastern North Carolina, violate the Voting Rights Act. In the new map, District 2 snakes all the way from Warren County, on the northern border with Virginia, to Carteret County on the southern coast.

The Southern Coalition wrote that both districts prevent Black voters from electing a candidate of their choice, despite both having sizable Black populations.

The coalition commissioned a racially polarized voting study on SD-1 and SD-2 to attempt to prove a VRA violation. The study, conducted by a political science professor at the University of Delaware, reports that each of the three Gingles conditions is met in these areas, potentially opening them up to VRA challenges.

Sen. Ralph Hise, chair of the Senate Redistricting Committee, said the coalition was the only organization to attempt to provide evidence of a VRA violation.

The chairs made the determination that nothing in the data we saw required the additional drawing of those maps specifically on the basis of race, he said on Tuesday.

In the letter, the coalition, which has brought past legal challenges against North Carolina maps, said it had little time to review the maps before commenting.

The fact that we write today concerning two specific Senate districts cannot and should not be read as an indication that there are no VRA concerns elsewhere in the maps under consideration, the letter said. Instead, the fact that a clear, impending violation could be identified even on this truncated timeline should be understood as a warning sign.

Senate Democratic leader Dan Blue called out new districts in the southern tip of the state, where parts of Wilmington are separated from the rest of New Hanover County and placed in a more Republican-leaning district with Brunswick and Columbus counties.

You went out specifically and targeted Black precincts, all six of them, the six heaviest Black populated precincts in New Hanover County, separated them from the rest of New Hanover County  where theyve been having an impact as a county and on the elections in that county  and you take them over to a county where theyre an insignificant proportion of the voting population, he said during a Monday redistricting committee meeting.

Hise denied using race as a factor.

I think its obvious that the minority leader wants a map that he feels will elect more candidates of his party than what he feels this map will, but I feel like we weve laid out our criteria and weve met them and we think this map best represents North Carolina, he said.

Now that the maps have passed, lawsuits will almost certainly follow in short order.

We are exploring racial gerrymandering claims right now, U.S. Rep. Deborah Ross said at a Thursday press conference organized by state Democrats. ...Were lawyering up.

Republican leaders say they arent worried.

We wouldnt pass these maps if we didnt think they wouldnt stand up in court, Berger told reporters on Tuesday. ... It wouldnt surprise me if along the way, before we get a final decision from courts, that you might find a court that has some problem with some part of the maps  but its our belief that when all is said and done, these maps will stand.

Washington correspondent Danielle Battaglia contributed to this report.
When eight House Republicans voted to oust Kevin McCarthy, it wasnt inevitable that the search for a new speaker would end with Republicans acceptingeven eagerly embracingthe lie that Donald Trump won the 2020 election.

The elevation of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA), one of the key architects of Trumps strategy to overturn his defeat, ensured it did.

Democrats told The Daily Beast Wednesday they have no choice but to work with Johnson, noting that McCarthy wasnt exactly a moderate himselfand also has his own history of undermining the 2020 election and sanitizing Trump after Jan. 6.

Dems Turn Mike Johnson's First Viral Moment Into Anti-GOP Ad

But Johnson securing the gavel could prove to be a careful what you wish for moment, as the Louisiana Republicans special brand of Christian nationalism, coupled with an openness to extreme spending cuts, may make him even more intractable than McCarthy.

Certainly, nearly every Democrat finds Johnsons own views more extreme than his predecessors. But with the House coming out of paralysis after three weeks, and with funding cliffs and urgent matters looming, they are preparing to look past their differences and try to find some common ground.

No Amicus of Mine

Before running for the speakership on Tuesday, Johnson was perhaps best known as a key player in Trumps legal and procedural efforts to keep himself in power by fighting the outcome of the 2020 election.

That history was mentioned often by Democrats on Wednesday in their comments opposing Johnsons speakership, which subtly and not-so-subtly referenced how the election denial push undermined democracy.

Not only did Johnson amplify an array of disproven fraud claimsincluding the wild theory that U.S. voting software was made by Venezuelan dictator Hugo ChavezJohnson organized the effort to get a majority of GOP lawmakers to sign onto an amicus brief in support of a Texas lawsuit to overturn the results in key states. He solicited their support by framing it as a request from President Trump and wrote to members that Trump will be anxiously awaiting the final list of those who signed the brief.

When that lawsuit failed, one day before Jan. 6, Johnson privately urged his colleagues to object to the electoral vote counting on the House floor, according to a new Politico report.

That history is not the reason why Johnson claimed the Speakers gavel. But it certainly helped his unexpected and abrupt rise. GOP Whip Tom Emmers record as a Republican who voted to certify the election may have actually cost him the speakership.

In Johnsons case, he was able to use his election-denying history as a rallying cry. When Democrats and the press began questioning his role in trying to overturn the 2020 election, Republicans closed ranks around him.

When Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA) called out Johnson on the House floor as an architect of the election-denying effort during his speech, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) proudly yelled, Damn right!

After winning the nomination, when Johnson faced a question from ABC News Rachel Scott about his 2020 denialism, the GOP lawmakers flanking him began booing and smirking, with Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-NC) telling Scott to shut up and go away!

Since winning the speakership on Tuesday, Johnson has continued to deflect questions on whether he still believes the 2020 election was stolen.

Even Republican lawmakers who opposed the plan to contest the election seemed eager to leave it in the past.

Mike Johnson Coasts to Speakership After Weeks of GOP Mayhem

Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX), a conservative who faced considerable blowback for his pushback against 2020 fraud claims, chalks up his difference with Johnson to a reasonable disagreement.

We move forward and move onward, Roy told The Daily Beast.

Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX) told reporters that Johnsons record on 2020 was completely irrelevant and accused Democrats of living in the past by bringing it up.

We're looking forward, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), who voted to certify the election. They're looking back.

Trump Card

In reality, Johnsons history on the issue is far from irrelevant. The 2020 election remains incredibly important to the most powerful person in the GOPTrumpand Emmers certification vote stance was no small reason why Trump issued a scorching statement torpedoing his speaker bid.

Johnsons role in trying to overturn the election was a signal to GOP voters and Republicans in Congress that he was sufficiently conservative and aligned with their values.

Should Johnson remain the Speaker through the 2024 election, his approach to the 2020 electionwhich saw him discount the will of voters and an abundance of facts about the fairness of the election in order to keep Trump in powerwill be anything but a relic of the past.

If another close Biden win in the Electoral College is contested by Trump, Johnson would have significant influence over the Houses vote certification procedures.

Donald Trump has cemented his control over the Republican conference in the House of Representatives, said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), a member of the special committee to investigate Jan. 6. One of his enablers on January 6 has just become the Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Mike Johnson May Win the Speakership Through Exhaustion and Delusion

Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) said that fear absolutely puts more pressure on Democrats to flip the House next year.

We believe that when people go vote, their will should be respected. There are a number of Republicans that don't appear to have that view, Lieu told the Daily Beast. And so I hope the American people consider that when they themselves go vote over next year.

But if Johnsons ascent is giving Democrats second thoughts about their decision to let eight Republicans boot McCarthy from the speakership, they werent saying so. At the time, they said that no one could be worse than the California Republican, arguing his own views didnt matter because he was unshakably beholden to the right flank of his conference.

Working Relationship

Despite Johnsons 2020 election denialismas well as his stridently right-wing positions on LGBTQ rights and abortionno Democratic lawmaker who spoke to The Daily Beast expressed any belief that he would do much differently than any other Republican.

Well never look back nostalgically and pine for Kevin McCarthy to be speaker, said Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA). He described Johnson as someone who can put a pseudo-legal gloss on a lot of extreme MAGA ideas, and he said Johnsons speakership was not going to be pretty.

But the last 10 months have been a shitshow by any measure, he continued.

Its not good, Huffman said. But substantively, theres no difference between Mike Johnson and Kevin McCarthy. Democrats will do all the same things.

Still, many Democrats were clear they find Johnsons views to be soberingly extreme, if not dangerous, and spoke of them in a way they rarely spoke of McCarthy.

There were a few House leaders who really distinguished themselves for the aggressiveness with which they pushed the big lie among their colleagues in the House, in litigation. Johnson was among the leaders of that pack, said Rep. Adam Schiff (D-CA), who served on the special committee investigating Jan. 6.

Kevin McCarthy Dances in Circles to Defend Trump After Israel Comments

So he has distinguished himself as being one of the primary antagonists to our democratic institutions and our free and fair elections, Schiff said.

Regardless, Democrats will have to find a way to work with Johnson. The short-term government spending bill Congress approved last month is set to expire Nov. 17, and both parties are eager to pass an aid package for Israel.

We have to work with him because we still want to get things done, said Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA). There's a lot of people on the other side that I disagree with on a variety of issues, but we still try to find the things we could do to work together.

Poison Pills

It remains to be seen how exactly that work will take shape. Despite animosity between House Democrats and Republicans, McCarthy and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) reportedly had a strong working relationship.

Jeffries and Johnson will have to build rapport from scratch. Jeffries said on CNN Wednesday morning that he doesnt know Johnson well, but called him an extreme right-wing ideologue. (In speeches on the floor, Jeffries and Johnson did exchange kinder words of hope that they could work together.)

But Beyer offered a glimmer of hope for collaboration. Perhaps, he said, Johnson can forge a more trusting relationship with Jeffries than McCarthy had.

It may be harder than it was with Kevin. But on the other hand, we didn't exactly find Speaker McCarthy reliable. And so perhaps it can be different, Beyer said.

When the stakes were high during McCarthys reign as speaker, Democrats voted with Republicans. Democrats joined Republicans en masse to bail the country out of a catastrophic default on U.S. debt and a government shutdown. But Democrats either had a hand in crafting those measuresBiden negotiated the debt ceiling billor they were free from GOP priorities.

Its Bad News That So Many in the GOP Are Pissed About Averting a Shutdown

Freshman Rep. Maxwell Frost (D-FL) said the caucus is concerned about Republicans introducing poison pills into legislation that would make bills impossible for Democrats to support. In one such situation under McCarthy, Republicans amended the National Defense Authorization Act to limit abortion access for service members.

Some may argue that this guy is more extreme than McCarthy, but only time will tell how he decides to govern, Frost told the Daily Beast.

Raskin, who served with Johnson on the Judiciary Committee, said Johnson has much better manners than Matt Gaetz or Marjorie Taylor Greene or Donald Trump. But he added that his politics tend toward the theocratic direction.

Democrats have noted that Johnson is one of the most anti-abortion members in Congress, is staunchly opposed to gay marriage, has written in support of the criminalization of gay sex, has called homosexuality sinful, and has pushed Amazon to lift its ban on conversion therapy books.

And yet Democrats indicated they have to work with him.

Unlike some other members, we're not interested in Civil War, and we want government to work, Raskin said. We have a Democrat in the White House. The Democrats control the Senate. And we want to make sure that the House will no longer be an impediment to effective government.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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In the grand ballroom of American politics, Democrats have long waltzed to the melody of progressivism while ridiculing Republicans' preference for outdated tax cut tunes. Ironically, they don't want to pay for their style of big government with higher taxes on ordinary Americans, which their expansionary ambitions would require. Instead, they loudly proclaim that they want to tax the rich. It remains to be seen how true this is.

Indeed, while Democrats profess their devotion to social justice and fight against income inequality, they often push for policies that favor the rich. Take their nonstop battle over the last five years to ease the tax burden of their high-income constituents.

The State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap, part of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), placed a $10,000 limit on the amount of state and local taxes that can be deducted from federal taxable income. This move predominantly affected high earners in high-tax states like New York, California, and many others that are Democratic strongholds.

That's a tax hike on the rich. This shouldn't bother Democrats, who are usually happy to demonstrate their egalitarian chops by clamoring for that very thing. Yet this time, by demanding repeal of the SALT cap, they are on the front lines of a battle to restore tax breaks for the rich. As it turns out, when affluent Californians and Northeasterners felt the pinch, Democrats were ready to cha-cha for tax relief.

Contrast this with the refusal by moderate New York Republicans to vote for Jim Jordan (ROhio) for House speaker in exchange for doubling the deduction cap to $20,000 for individuals and $40,000 for married couples. Now, this might mean these guys really didn't want Jordan as speaker, but they wouldn't roll over even in exchange for tax cuts for their own constituencies.

Would New York Democrats be so principled? Back in 2021, 17 of 19 members of this delegation threatened to block a Democrat-sponsored infrastructure bill if the SALT deduction cap wasn't entirely repealed. I would have been OK with that crony bill failing; I highlight this incident only to reveal some Democrats' commitment to tax breaks for rich blue-state voters.

Add to this the fact that big government tends to work out well for people with big bank accounts. Billions of dollars in tax credits and subsidies have gone de facto to high-income taxpayers to buy expensive electric cars, or to large, well-connected companies to build green infrastructure or semiconductors they would have produced anyway.

For all the populist huffing and puffing, many big-government policies squarely hurt middle-class and poorer Americans. A good example is Democrats' starring role in Congress' refusal to reform insolvent entitlement spending. It amounts to supporting an enormous transfer of money, through regressive payroll taxes, from the young and poor to the old and rich.

Even Democrats' support for raising the corporate income tax rate from its current 21 percent to 25 percent is inconsistent with their populist self-identification. As economists have long known, most, if not all, of the economic burden of corporate income taxes is shouldered by primarily middle-class workers in the form of lower wages. It's wrong to call this a tax on the rich.

There are other instances in which Democrats balk at the notion of raising taxes or even, in Republican-like fashion, support tax cuts. In 2010, they heralded the passage of the Affordable Care Act. However, one key funding mechanism was a 2.3 percent excise tax on medical devices.

Many Democrats eventually joined Republicans in calling for this tax's repeal, citing the potential negative impact on the medical device industry. By 2015, even liberal stalwarts like Sen. Elizabeth Warren (DMass.) were advocating to suspend the tax. It was permanently repealed in 2019 as part of a year-end spending package.

In 2011, Democrats, led by then-President Barack Obama, pushed for an extension of the payroll tax cut, a policy that provided relief to millions of working families. While this move aligned with their commitment to supporting the middle class, it marked another significant departure from their traditional stance on tax cuts, showing a willingness to embrace tax relief when politically expedient.

Soon, Congress must debate the sunset of the TCJA's tax relief provisions in 2025, which are scheduled to raise taxes by roughly $3 trillion over a 10-year period. It will be entertaining to watch Democrats extend a vast majority of these policies, including some for the benefit of very well-off Americans, while continuing to blame former President Donald Trump's tax cuts for raising the deficit.

COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM.

The post Democrats Say They're Fighting Inequality. But Many of Their Policies Favor the Rich. appeared first on Reason.com.
Nasrin Bahrampour and her husband, Ali, at their public housing apartment, which they will be forced to vacate, in Aarhus, Denmark, Sept. 11, 2023. (Charlotte de la Fuente/The New York Times)

AARHUS, Denmark  After they fled Iran decades ago, Nasrin Bahrampour and her husband settled in a bright public housing apartment overlooking the university city of Aarhus, Denmark. They filled it with potted plants, family photographs and Persian carpets, and raised two children there.

Now they are being forced to leave it under a government program that effectively mandates integration in certain low-income neighborhoods where many non-Western immigrants live.

In practice, that means thousands of apartments will be demolished, sold to private investors or replaced with new housing catering to wealthier (and often nonimmigrant) residents, to increase the social mix.

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The Danish news media has called the program the biggest social experiment of this century. Critics say it is social policy with a bulldozer.

The government says the plan is meant to dismantle parallel societies, which officials describe as segregated enclaves where immigrants do not participate in the wider society or learn Danish, even as they benefit from the countrys generous welfare system.

Opponents say it is a blunt form of ethnic discrimination, and gratuitous in a country with low income inequality and where the level of deprivation in poor areas is much less pronounced than in many countries.

While many other governments have experimented with solutions to fight urban deprivation and segregation, experts say that mandating a reduction in public housing based largely on the residents ethnic background is an unusual, heavy-handed and counterproductive solution.

In areas like Vollsmose, a suburb of Odense where more than two-thirds of residents are from non-Western  mainly Muslim  countries, the government mandate is translating into wide-ranging demolitions.

I feel by removing us, they would like to hide us because we are foreigners, said Bahrampour, 73.

After months of searching around the city, she and her husband found a smaller apartment in a different public housing building close by. Still, Bahrampour said, being forced to leave her home was wrenching.

It feels like I am always a refugee, she said.

The housing plan was announced in 2018 by a conservative government, but it only started to take a tangible form more recently. It was part of a broader package signed into law that its supporters vowed would dismantle parallel societies by 2030. Among its mandates is a requirement that young children in certain areas spend at least 25 hours a week in preschools where they would be taught the Danish language and Danish values.

In a country where the world-famous welfare system was originally built to serve a tiny, homogeneous population, the housing overhaul project has had broad support across the political spectrum. That includes the governing liberal Social Democrats, who changed the term used for the affected communities, substituting parallel societies for the much-criticized word ghettos.

The welfare society is fundamentally a community, which is based on a mutual trust that we all contribute, Denmarks prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said in March at a summit of the countrys municipalities. All that is being seriously challenged by parallel societies.

The law mandates that in neighborhoods where at least half of the population is of non-Western origin or descent, and where at least two of the following characteristics exist  low income, low education, high unemployment or a high percentage of residents who have had criminal convictions  the share of social housing needs to be reduced to no more than 40% by 2030.

That means more than 4,000 public housing units will need to be emptied or torn down. At least 430 have already been demolished.

The decision of which housing remains public will be made by local governments and housing associations. The association operating in Vollsmose said that it bases its decisions not so much on whether a building is dilapidated but on its location and whether it would do well on the open market. The residents displaced are offered alternative public housing in other buildings or neighborhoods.

From the beginning, the programs targeting of communities largely based on the presence of non-Western immigrants or their descendants has attracted widespread criticism.

Several court cases based on the accusation that the law amounts to ethnic discrimination have reached the Court of Justice of the European Union. Even the United Nations has weighed in, with a group of its human rights experts saying Denmark should halt the sale of properties to private investors until a ruling is made on the programs legality.

Critics in Denmark and elsewhere have said the country would be better off focusing on countering discrimination against minority communities  chiefly its Muslim population  if the goal is to get more people integrated into Danish society. They say the law that created the housing program actually makes the discrimination worse by characterizing those with immigrant backgrounds as a societal problem to be solved.

They also argue that ethnic enclaves have historically served as landing points for new immigrants in many countries, places where they could get a foothold before subsequent generations assimilated.

Lawrence Katz, a Harvard University professor who has studied the effects of moving families from high- to low-poverty areas, said research on one experimental program in the United States showed substantial improvements in outcomes for young children when they left impoverished areas for wealthier ones.

One big difference between the two programs was that the U.S. program, Moving to Opportunity, was voluntary.

I would be very worried about a policy of coercive moves, he said, adding that if a government relocates people, it is crucial that the improvement from one area to the other is significant. Otherwise, he said, youre creating trauma without creating opportunity.

It will be difficult to assess if people forced to leave their homes are better off because the Danish authorities are not tracking them. What is clear, however, is that for some, moving has been traumatic.

On a recent day, Marc-Berco Fuhr sat among unpacked boxes in the suburban apartment where he and his mother, who emigrated from East Germany, had to move after their building was marked for demolition. He played a video of an interview his mother gave to a newspaper before they left.

Surrounded by her Chinese vases, sumptuous curtains and the golden frescoes she had painted on the walls, his 82-year-old mother protested being forced to leave after nearly 40 years, saying that she might not survive the move. Its my home, she said.

She has since died, and her son has kept her clock, vases and a mother-of-pearl chessboard, which were broken by the movers.

We were very happy in our flat, he said. I dont really feel at home here.

The redevelopment plan is in its early stages, but the government says the program is bearing fruit based on the criteria it set up.

Those leaving affected neighborhoods are, on average, less educated, less likely to be fully employed and earn less than those moving in, according to a government report. It also noted that fewer non-Westerners are moving in than moving out.

The blend of people from different layers of society is getting higher, Thomas Monberg, a member of Parliament and the Social Democrats spokesperson for housing, said in an email response to questions. He said the government acted because it could not afford to wait until people are killing each other in gang wars.

On visits to several neighborhoods being redeveloped, some people  both those moving in and moving out  said they were happy with the changes.

I think its working, said Henriette Andersen, 34, a graphic designer who moved into the neighborhood of Gellerup, in Aarhus, more than two years ago. As she pushed a stroller into her newly built two-floor row house, she said that she could see how the plan created problems for the people who were forced to leave the neighborhood. But, she said, its necessary to do it if you want to make changes.

In Vollsmose, Faila Waenge said she was happy to be leaving. As she shuttled back and forth from her house to a launderette carrying blankets and sheets, she said that some of the area residents smoked marijuana and that the neighborhood was too loud.

Still, some experts and residents said the experiment that was upending peoples lives was undertaken with too little proof that it would work.

Gunvor Christensen, until recently a chief research analyst at Denmarks national center for social science research, said that no scientific evidence had emerged that neighborhoods were negatively affecting their residents opportunities in Denmark.

If they made the program voluntary, most people would like to stay, said Christensen, who now works for a social housing organization. The experiment would have failed.

On a recent day, Shirin Hadi Anad stood in a courtyard cluttered with furniture near her soon-to-be demolished row house in Vollsmose, watching children play with friends they had grown up with. Unlike her neighbor, Waenge, Hadi Anad said she liked living there.

We would have wanted to leave this neighborhood if there was gunfire, fighting, stabbings, police sirens around the clock, she said. But we live in Vollsmose, not Chicago.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
Denmark has pledged a military aid package to Ukraine worth 3.7 billion Danish kroner ($520 million), including T-72EA tanks, BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, artillery shells, drones, and small arms, the Danish Defense Ministry announced on Oct. 26.

The tranche also includes engineering and recovery vehicles, which have been co-financed by Germany, the ministry said.

The package further encompasses support to NATO's Comprehensive Assistance Package, which coordinates non-lethal defense assistance to Kyiv, and to the EU's joint artillery shells procurement plan.

The tranche's content has been based upon consultations between Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen and his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov in Kyiv earlier this week, Poulsen said.

"Today's donation confirms that Ukraine can count on Denmark's unwavering support in their fight for freedom. This is support that is crucial for Ukraine to continue the fight," Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said.

"The donation also sends an important signal to both Ukraine and Russia that we do not lose focus, even though much of the world's attention these days is directed at Israel and Palestine."

According to the Danish Foreign Ministry's statement from Oct. 6, Copenhagen has already provided Ukraine with $2.3 billion in military aid and $354 million in civilian contributions since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion.

Denmark is also one of the few countries that have pledged to supply Kyiv with the much-desired F-16 fighter jets.

Read also: Biden all in on aid to Ukraine, yet House remains an issue

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Gov. Ron DeSantis ' top education official is moving to disband at least two student groups at Florida universities after claiming their national organization supports "terrorism."

Florida Education Chancellor Ray Rodrigues sent a letter to university officials saying the two National Students for Justice in Palestine chapters "must be deactivated," according to a copy of the letter obtained by FOX News.

Rodrigues' letter implies that National Students for Justice in Palestine's actions don't constitute free speech, which is protected under the U.S. Constitution. His letter includes a warning to college leaders and says that state officials are working "to ensure we are all using all tools at our disposal to crack down on campus demonstrations that delve beyond protected First Amendment speech into harmful support for terrorist groups."

"These measures could include necessary adverse employment actions and suspensions for school officials."

Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks to the Christians United For Israel (CUFI) Summit 2023, July 17, 2023, in Arlington, Va.

Israel-Hamas war: sparks many misleading claims online. Here's what's true and false.

DeSantis cracking down on student groups

Rodrigues said he sent the letter after consulting with DeSantis, who came under fire Tuesday by prominent Florida Republican Randy Fine, a Jewish state representative who accused the governor of not being strong enough against antisemitism and switched his endorsement to former President Donald Trump.

Fine praised DeSantis' crackdown on the student groups in a post on X, but said it should have happened sooner.

Israel-Hamas war: Biden warns Iran not to attack American troops as Israel-Hamas war continues

National SJP

Rodrigues' letter states that National Students for Justice in Palestine released a "toolkit" supportive of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, the name given by Hamas to the group's surprise attack in Israel on Oct. 7. More than 1,400 Israelis were killed in the attack and it's aftermath.

"The National Students for Justice in Palestine (National SJP) released a 'toolkit' which refers to Operation Al-Aqsa Flood as 'the resistance' and unequivocally states: 'Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not in solidarity with this movement,'" according to Rodrigues' letter.

Rodrigues goes on to note that it is a felony in Florida to provide "material support" to a foreign terrorist organization, which Hamas is considered under U.S. law.

"National SJP has affirmatively identified it is part of the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood  a terrorist led attack," Rodrigues states.

At least two Florida universities have active chapters of National Students for Justice in Palestine, according to Rodrigues' letter, which doesn't name the universities.

A Florida State University spokesperson said its students for Justice in Palestine organization has not been active on campus for over a year. She said she's unsure why it became inactive.

But the chapter at the University of South Florida posted on its Instagram that it was one of those affected.

In a post last week, the group said it stood in "full solidarity with Palestinian resistance" but that it "promotes peace and condemns all forms of violence."

In a statement emailed to the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida, the University of Florida chapter said it was the other chapter.

"We find the recent attempt by the DeSantis administration to shut down our chapter disgraceful," the group wrote. "If followed through, a precedent would be set to shut down any organization that does not align with the ideals held by Governor DeSantis, making this not just a setback for those who oppose apartheid, settler-colonialism and genocide, but for any who challenge the status quo.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression called the directive dangerous and unconstitutional.

"Theres no indication from the chancellors letter that any action from Floridas Students for Justice in Palestine groups went beyond expression fully protected by the First Amendment," FIRE wrote in an emailed statement. "If it goes unchallenged, no ones political beliefs will be safe from government suppression."

The group hosted a discussion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where speakers were critical of Israel and its treatment of Palestinians.

The ACLU of Florida also blasted the effort to shutdown the student groups.

"The Governor's actions are transparently unconstitutional," said ACLU of Florida interim Executive Director Howard Simon. "This directive does nothing to protect students and the Jewish community. Instead of keeping students and the Jewish community safe, he is simply silencing ideas he doesn't like. This attack on free speech is dangerous and likely wont be the last.

Rodrigues' letter comes after Fine wrote DeSantis earlier this month calling for the expulsion of college students expressing support for the surprise attack on Israel, though that may run into First Amendment issues, experts warn.

Hamas' attack and massacre of civilians and Israel's retaliatory strikes in the Gaza Strip, which have killed thousands, have put the conflict in the Middle East back at the center of national discussions.

DeSantis has been sharply critical of pro-Palestinian demonstrations as he runs for president, saying that if elected he would seek to revoke visas from foreign students who express support for Hamas. He also says all residents of Gaza refugees are anti-Semitic and shouldn't be allowed in America as refugees.

More: UN chief say he wasn't justifying terrorism after Israel urges his ouster: Updates

This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: DeSantis to ban pro-Palestinian student groups at Florida colleges
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday hes arranged to send drones, weapons and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for an incursion of Gaza in response to Hamas attack. Its the latest official response DeSantis has taken to back Israel as he competes in the 2024 Republican presidential primary.

Florida has sent cargo planes with healthcare supplies, drones, body armor and helmets, said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governors office. The state also worked with groups to supply unspecified amounts of weapons and ammunition that were privately funded, Redfern said.

The governors office said it acted at the request of Israels consul general in Miami. Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the consul general, initially said Thursday he did not request drones, body armor or helmets, nor had he talked to the governor about help getting weapons or ammunition through private parties.

Read: DeSantis orders state universities to disband pro-Palestinian student group, saying it backs Hamas

Elbaz-Starinsky said later Thursday that others in the Israeli government had communicated with DeSantis office to determine what would be sent to Israel.

DeSantis has often applied his official powers to take actions that coincide with his larger political goals. Florida used state funds to fly migrants from Texas to Democratic-led areas such as Marthas Vineyard. And earlier this week, his administration ordered state universities to disband chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group. Since Hamas Oct. 7 attack, Florida has also run flights for about 700 Americans evacuated from Israel.

Read: Central Florida Tourism Oversight District hired ethics board member for 911 service contract

The confirmation of the military aid comes as DeSantis and other GOP presidential contenders are expected to attend the Republican Jewish Coalitions annual gathering of donors, which kicks off Friday in Las Vegas. DeSantis is scheduled to speak Saturday morning to a Nevada Republican group at a casino-resort on the Las Vegas Strip.

DeSantis and the other candidates have largely lined up behind Israel and accused President Joe Biden of not doing enough to support the Israelis. DeSantis has swiped at former President Donald Trump, the heavy front-runner in the 2024 primary, and former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley over Israel as well.

Read: DeSantis says aid should only go to Gaza after hostages released, Hamas surrenders

Its unclear whether DeSantis coordinated shipments of any weapons with the Biden administration. The Commerce Department regulates the shipment abroad of many types of U.S. weapons and technology.

It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country, said John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White Houses National Security Council. There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled and thats all done through Commerce. I couldnt speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not.

The Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Read: DeSantis allies ask Florida judge to throw out Disneys counterclaims in lawsuit

The export of military equipment would typically require a license or some other authorization from either the Commerce or State Departments, depending on the precise item, said Thomas Krueger, a lawyer at the Akin Gump law firm who specializes in international trade and previously served as the director of strategic trade and nonproliferation at the White Houses National Security Council.

It really all depends on the specifications of the items themselves, to determine what kind of export authorization would be required, Krueger said.

___

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.





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MIAMI (AP)  Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday he's arranged to send drones, weapons and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for an incursion of Gaza in response to Hamas' attack. It's the latest official response DeSantis has taken to back Israel as he competes in the 2024 Republican presidential primary.

Florida has sent cargo planes with healthcare supplies, drones, body armor and helmets, said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governor's office. The state also worked with groups to supply unspecified amounts of weapons and ammunition that were privately funded, Redfern said.

The governors office said it acted at the request of Israels consul general in Miami. Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the consul general, initially said Thursday he did not request drones, body armor or helmets, nor had he talked to the governor about help getting weapons or ammunition through private parties.

Elbaz-Starinsky said later Thursday that others in the Israeli government had communicated with DeSantis office to determine what would be sent to Israel.

DeSantis has often applied his official powers to take actions that coincide with his larger political goals. Florida used state funds to fly migrants from Texas to Democratic-led areas such as Marthas Vineyard. And earlier this week, his administration ordered state universities to disband chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group. Since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, Florida has also run flights for about 700 Americans evacuated from Israel.

The confirmation of the military aid comes as DeSantis and other GOP presidential contenders are expected to attend the Republican Jewish Coalitions annual gathering of donors, which kicks off Friday in Las Vegas. DeSantis is scheduled to speak Saturday morning to a Nevada Republican group at a casino-resort on the Las Vegas Strip.

DeSantis and the other candidates have largely lined up behind Israel and accused President Joe Biden of not doing enough to support the Israelis. DeSantis has swiped at former President Donald Trump, the heavy front-runner in the 2024 primary, and former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley over Israel as well.

Its unclear whether DeSantis coordinated shipments of any weapons with the Biden administration. The Commerce Department regulates the shipment abroad of many types of U.S. weapons and technology.

It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country," said John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House's National Security Council. "There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled and thats all done through Commerce. I couldnt speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not.

The export of military equipment would typically require a license or some other authorization from either the Commerce or State Departments, depending on the precise item, said Thomas Krueger, a foreign policy adviser at the Akin Gump law firm who specializes in international trade and previously served as the director of strategic trade and nonproliferation at the National Security Council.

It really all depends on the specifications of the items themselves, to determine what kind of export authorization would be required, Krueger said.

A Commerce Department spokesman said the department was working to appropriately expedite applications for assistance to Israel" and was in close contact with the Israeli government, but said he could not provide details on particular transactions.

___

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis s (R) office says it is sending drones, weapons and ammunition to Israel to support its war against Hamas, a move that would bolster the governors pro-Israel stance in the battle for the GOP presidential nomination.

Jeremy Redfern, a spokesperson for DeSantiss office, said that Florida contracted cargo planes to transport drones, body armor, helmets and healthcare supplies to Israel. He said that the body armor and helmets were transported to Israel at the request of the Israeli Consul General in Miami.

He said since Florida was already sending supplies to Israel, it was able to add the requested body armor and helmets on the cargo plane. Redfern said Florida did not purchase the body armor or helmets.

Redfern also said that the state worked with private parties to help get weapons and ammunition to Israel at a separate request of the consul general. He also said that the weapons and ammunition were not purchased by Florida.

Redfern did not comment on what kinds of weapons were provided or how many drones and rounds of ammunition were sent to Israel. He also did not say what third parties the state had worked with.

Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the Israeli consul general in Miami, told The Associated Press that he did not request drones, body armor, or helmets. He also said he did not talk to DeSantis about getting weapons or ammunition through private parties.

Nothing went through me, Elbaz-Starinsky told the AP. We were never in communication on any shipments of arms or ammunition. The only thing that I have dealt with sending is medical supplies.

DeSantis has been an outspoken supporter of Israel and has vowed that Florida will do as much as it can to aid the nation in its efforts against Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States. He issued an executive order earlier this month authorizing the rescue of Floridians in Israel using chartered flights.

In a Wednesday post on X, formerly Twitter, DeSantis wrote that nearly 700 Americans have been flown from Israel to Florida in four separate rescue flights.

The U.S. has also said it is working to get Americans out of the region and is negotiating for the release of Americans held hostage by Hamas. National Security spokesperson John Kirby said Tuesday that the U.S. is not sure how many of the 10 Americans unaccounted for in Israel are being held as hostages, noting that some may have been killed in the initial attacks.

We dont know. Theyre unaccounted for. Some could be hostages; some could unfortunately be  be dead. We just  we dont know. Thats why theyre still in the unaccounted-for category, he said at a press briefing.

Its unclear whether DeSantis coordinated with the Biden administration to send the weapons and other supplies.

The National Security Council referred The Hill to the Commerce Department and State Department for comment.

DeSantis is trailing former President Trump in GOP primary polls nationally and in early-voting primary states. Republicans will hold their third presidential debate in early November, though Trump is not expected to attend.

Hamas launched its attack on Oct. 7, prompting Israel to declare war on the group. Since then, Israel has escalated its bombardment of Gaza, saying it is targeting Hamass strongholds in the territory.

More than 1,400 Israelis have been killed in the conflict, mostly in the initial infiltration on Oct. 7. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said Wednesday that 6,546 Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza Strip.

Updated at 4:00 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
In less than two weeks, Ohioans will vote on Issue 1 with early voting already underway. And conservatives in Ohio simply cant stop lying about the abortion ballot measure that would enshrine the right to reproductive health decisions in the state constitution.

Theyve been lying about what the amendment would do, lying that its not necessary, and now theyre telling the biggest tall tale: That, if passed, Issue 1 would overrule a federal ban on an abortion procedure thats been in effect for more than 15 years. Its absolute nonsense designed to get people to vote against it, or not vote at all, amid polls showing Issue 1 is polling favorably. (The pro-choice position is to vote yes.)

Read more

Constitutional scholars told the Associated Press that these Republican claims are false because Issue 1 cannot override the federal ban. If the federal law prohibits a particular technique, then thats going to prevail over a state law that might be inconsistent, said Jonathan Entin, professor emeritus of law at Case Western Reserve University. Dan Kobil, a law professor at Capital University in Columbus, said, It would be a federal crime for a doctor to violate that ban.

The AP asked DeWines office why he thinks that a federal ban he voted for would somehow not apply if Ohio amended its state constitution. A spokesperson said DeWine bases his position on provisions of the U.S. Constitution that prevent the federal government from regulating conduct that has no effect on interstate commerce. This is DeWines office basically admitting that he thinks the 2003 law is unconstitutional, but he voted for it anyway.

DeWine and others must be hoping that voters dont think about their far-fetched claim for too long, because it falls apart under just a shred of consideration: Even if some Ohio group tried to say that Issue 1 gave them the power to legalize D&X procedures, theres no way in hell this Supreme Courtthe one that overturned Roe v. Wadewould let Ohio defy their precedents and bring back a banned abortion procedure.

Earlier this year, Secretary of State Frank LaRose (R) oversaw changing the word fetus in the amendment to read unborn child, and inserting that Issue 1 would always allow an unborn child to be aborted at any stage of pregnancy, regardless of viability, when that is not true. (The Republican-controlled state Supreme Court upheld those changes in September.)



And DeWine himself is fresh off cutting an ad in which he ignores that the fate of Issue 1 could determine whether or not the six-week abortion ban he signed in 2019 will take effect. That law is currently blocked by the state Supreme Court, but without a codified right to abortion in the state, the court could let it take effect.

Republicans keep lying about whats at stake here, probably because theyre terrified that voters will choose to protect their own rights.

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Click here to read the full article.
One of just two Okko gas stations along the road to the Russian-occupied city of Bakhmut in Ukraines eastern Donetsk Oblast has seen better days.

Last winter during a nighttime Russian artillery strike on Kostiantynivka, around 20 kilometers from Bakhmut, debris crashed through the roof and landed in the stations storeroom.

The next morning, the stations employees, none of whom were at work during the attack, rolled a piece of the debris out to the gas stations entrance, painted it blue and yellow, and named it Stepan.

This stone is now our symbol of resilience, Nataliia Polianska, the gas stations manager, told the Kyiv Independent. The Okko station has been hit three separate times by Russian shelling  something Polianska says its employees are growing accustomed to.

More than a year and a half into Russias full-scale war against Ukraine, the country's largest retailers, like Okko, are operating in and returning to front-line areas, despite the enormous losses to their personnel and businesses due to continued Russian attacks, labor scarcity, and a shortage of goods.

Read also: Ukraines GDP grows by 9% since last September

As of Sept. 1, the total losses of companies surveyed by the Kyiv Independent  which includes the large-sized retailers Okko, Eva, Comfy, Dnipro-M, and the Fozzy Group  exceeded $150 million. The number of lost stores in each chain is in the dozens.

Ukraines largest privately-owned postal service Nova Poshta estimates its losses at nearly $45 million due to the war, not including a recent Russian attack on one of its postal depots in Kharkiv Oblast on Oct. 21 that killed six people and injured 17 more.

Many retailers view their return not just as a way to keep business going, but as a humanitarian mission to bring normalcy back to places that have been devastated by Russias war.

Okko, for its part, provides critically needed fuel for Ukrainian military equipment, volunteers bringing humanitarian aid, and ambulances evacuating the wounded.

It also provides a place of respite for soldiers. Okko, one of Ukraines largest networks of gas stations, has been offering free coffee and hot dogs to all soldiers at front-line filling stations, serving over 3.2 million cups of coffee and 1.9 million hot dogs to the soldiers as of late October.

(Soldiers) are our most valuable customers. Providing them with a welcoming and grateful atmosphere is essential," says Dmytro Rasskazov, vice president for commercial and operational activities at kko.

Surviving Russian occupation

As Russian troops occupied the city of Kherson in the early days of the full-scale invasion, employees from one Nova Poshta branch took it upon themselves to weld shut the branchs doors, preserving 4,000 packages that had been sent to the location for delivery before Feb. 24, 2022.

When the southern city was liberated in November 2022 after eight months of Russian occupation, the packages were finally delivered.

Nova Poshta counts more than 100 of its branches and self-service delivery lockers damaged or destroyed. Another 1,174 of its branches are located in Russian-occupied territories and the current state theyre in is impossible to know.

In Vorzel in Kyiv Oblast during occupation, Russian troops looted a food production facility of the Fozzy Group, one of Ukraines largest retailers and owner of the popular grocery-store chain Silpo.

When Kyiv Oblast was liberated in April 2022, local residents found the stolen equipment in forests and yards and returned the items.

The opening of a new location of Comfy, a large retailer of household appliances and electronics, in Bucha, Kyiv Oblast following its liberation in March 2022. (Comfy)

"Local residents returned the found items to us, and we are very grateful to them because we were able to restore production quickly," recalls Dmytro Tsygankov, the marketing director at Fozzy Group.

In the city of Izium, occupied by Russia for five months between April-September 2022, Svitlana Svitlychna, the manager of one location of the beauty supply chain Eva, kept the store open even during bombardments, hiding the stores sign to conceal it from hostile Russian troops.

In the aftermath of occupation, the return of a semblance of normalcy is important for local communities, companies say. Beauty and health stores, like Eva, play a part in this restoration by offering access to essential products, driving demand for their reopening.

Some retail chains are managing to make comebacks in the wake of Russian occupation. In the city of Stoianka in Kyiv Oblast, only one wall remained of a location of the electric tool company Dnipro-M following Russian attacks.

"Our main company provided a deferral and assistance to help the partner rebuild the store and purchase new tools. Sales were initially slow, but eventually, the partner's business rebounded, reaching pre-war profit levels after a year," said Oleksandr Prykhodko, head of franchises at Dnipro-M.

Humanitarian mission

Many retailers say they see opening stores in liberated or front-line areas as a social responsibility, prioritizing support for the local population and military over profits.

This trend began in spring 2022 with the liberation of towns like Bucha and Irpin in Kyiv Oblast before spreading to other liberated areas.

"Despite constant danger, shelling, and fear, people in these front-line cities continue to live their lives. We wanted to support them and be there for them, co-owner of Ukraines e-commerce giant Rozetka, Vladyslav Chechotkin, said on Facebook.

In the front-line cities of Kramatorsk and Kostiantynivka in Donetsk Oblast, the top-selling products in Rozetka stores are cat food, coffee, tea, and mobile phones, according to the company.

Ihor Khyzhniak, CEO of Comfy, a large retailer of household appliances and electronics, noted the joy and gratitude with which customers in liberated and front-line areas have welcomed the reopening of stores.

Many of Comfys customers are military personnel, with a strong demand for digital technology, particularly smartphones, tablets, laptops, and accessories  much-needed items on the battlefield.

Employees of Ukraines largest privately-owned postal service Nova Poshta delivering packages from a mobile branch using a generator and Starlink satellite module in Vysokopillya, Kherson Oblast after it was liberated in November 2022. (Nova Poshta)

Small and large household appliances are also in high demand as people return home and replace items stolen during occupation.

When Nova Poshta's employees arrived in newly liberated areas, they say they were overwhelmed with grief, lamenting the damage to people, buildings, and broken lives, with empty schools that were once bustling with children. Infrastructure is severely lacking, and only a fraction of the population, mostly pensioners, remains.

In Izium, only about 10,000 remain from a pre-war population of nearly 50,000 residents. In Balakliia in Kharkiv Oblast, only about 8,000 remain out of a previous population of 28,000.

Nova Poshta has consistently delivered humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, water, and hygiene products, to these cities. They've also provided Starlink modules and generators for free internet access, news updates, and device charging, as basic utilities like power, water, heat, and communication have been lacking.

Nova Poshta has also introduced mobile branches tailored for these territories, including a container-based solution with air conditioning, solar panels, and a generator for parcel transport.

Challenges of assembling a team, ensuring safety

One of the biggest challenges in liberated and front-line areas is the scarcity of available personnel due to already small populations and the mass exodus of people fleeing Russias war.

Silpo's director of marketing, Kateryna Ohuriaieva, said that while many employees are returning, there's still a shortage, especially for managerial roles.

The Rozetka employees who decided to stay in liberated areas after stores reopened have provided much-needed support. Their dedication, along with positive feedback from customers, serves as a significant source of inspiration and motivation for companies, employees say.

Eva faced the challenge of assembling a new team in Kherson as over 90% of the original staff had evacuated. They nonetheless have managed to get a new team together.

Employee safety amid ongoing Russian attacks is also a top concern for companies nowadays.

Companies like Nova Poshta have fortified their branches, with concrete slabs, sandbags, and armored doors. Nova Poshta has also constructed shelters for employees and nearby residents, providing them with helmets and bulletproof vests.

Emergency service workers clear the rubble following a Russian missile strike on a shopping mall, where both the Silpo and Comfy retail chains had stores, in Kremenchuk, Poltava Oblast on June 27, 2022. The attack killed at least 21 people and inured more than 50. (Comfy/ UNIAN)

Following the strike on its depot in Kharkiv Oblast, the company said it would build additional bomb shelters.

"We have built bomb shelters at all depots. But now it's about making small bomb shelters inside the buildings so people can be as close to them as possible," said Volodymyr Popereshniuk.

"In the case of Kharkiv - a strike takes place in less than a minute, literally 30-40 seconds. You need to manage to hide during this time."

But not all of Ukraines cities and towns have proper shelters. Comfy told the Kyiv Independent that it ensures employees and customers take shelter during air raid warnings and provides information about nearby shelters.

Rozetka is opening new self-pick-up points near concrete shelters and offers insurance for employees in high-risk areas.

The lack of basements has been a problem in Kherson, but mobile shelters are becoming more available.

Despite the challenges, grocery chain Silpo says it is determined to continue.

In Kherson, the company has changed their supermarkets sign to "Vystoimo," meaning "We will stand.

Read also: Demographic disaster: Ukraines biggest post-war threat

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A Mississippi woman has, at last, discovered the whereabouts of her son, who mysteriously disappeared in March 2023.

To her shock, it has come to light that the 37-year-old was struck and killed by a Jackson police officers car, and his remains were laid to rest in grave No. 672 at the Hinds County Jails penal farm.

When she arrived at his grave this month, Bettersten Wade said, Im so sorry this happened to you. But Mama didnt know. Mama didnt know, as NBC reported in a recent expose.

Bettersten Wade holds a photo of her son, Dexter Wade. (Photo: Facebook/Better Than I Was Yesterday)

Wade had filed a missing person report with the same police department where the person who took the life of her son, Dexter Wade, worked.

Despite members of the force having the information about her sons death, she was kept in the dark for 172 days about the grim truth: her sons life was taken by one of their own, and he was quietly interred in a plot located in the back of the detention facility.

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They had me looking for him all that time, and they knew who he was, the mother told NBC News.

Dexter suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia and was killed on March 5.

When Bettersten Wade called about her son being missing, police said no one had been able to find him.

That was not the truth.

The Jackson Police Department was aware that a Jackson police officer had fatally struck Dexter while he crossed a nearby interstate highway.

An off-duty corporal hit Dexter and called in to report the accident. Police did not give the officer a sobriety test nor check if he was under the influence of any narcotics or alcohol. He was also not cited for violating any traffic laws.

According to police records, Dexter hurt his head after being hit. He also sustained other injuries to his body. A toxicology report revealed he was under the influence, having PCP and methamphetamine in his system. However, there is no suggestion that the drugs had anything to do with him being hit.

Police records ruled the death accidental.

Initially, when a representative from the Hinds County coroners office arrived at the scene, they couldnt find any identification on Dexter. However, a prescription bottle in his pocket had his name on it.

Three days later, on March 8, investigator LaGrand Elliott contacted the medical facility holding Dexters prescription records and obtained his mothers name as the next of kin. Elliott left a voicemail after getting her number, although Wade claims she didnt receive the call.

On the following day, the state crime lab confirmed Dexter Wades identity through fingerprint matching. Subsequently, Elliott passed his information, along with his mothers contact information, to the Jackson Police Departments accident investigation squad.

Once we get that information, I turn it over to police because it is their jurisdiction so that they can do the proper death notification, Elliott said to NBC.

Still, they never notified Bettersten Wade of her sons death and did not tell her that her son was dead when she called the JPD on March 14 to report him missing. In fact, when Elliott followed up with the department about getting in touch with the emergency contact, they told him she could not be found.

No kin has been located as of yet, the investigator wrote in his notes on the case.

On March 30, another call was placed, and the department reported no changes. The following day, the coroners office sought approval from the Hinds County Board of Supervisors to lay Dexter to rest in a paupers field at the Hinds County penal farm, where the mother was taken by the sheriff seven months after last seeing her son.

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Elliott kept calling the department, but no progress was made until a new investigator took the case and called Bettersten on Aug. 13 to let her know she would be the point person for her case and then, on Aug. 24, called to tell her what had happened to her son.

Four years prior, on January 13, 2019, while Jackson Police officers were conducting a search for the murderer of Reverend Anthony Longino, they encountered a 62-year-old man, George Robinson, who had no connection to the pastors murder at New Bethany Missionary Baptist Church, according to Mississippi Today.

Witnesses recounted seeing officers forcibly remove Robinson, Betterstens brother, from his vehicle, slamming him and hitting him with flashlights. Robinson, who was still in the process of recovering from a stroke he had suffered less than a month earlier, shortly before Christmas, succumbed to a subdural hemorrhage at the University of Mississippi Medical Center that evening.

Charges against only one of three officers involved would stick.

In August 2022, a jury convicted Anthony Fox of negligent manslaughter in connection with Robinsons death. Hinds County Circuit Judge Adrienne Wooten sentenced Fox to 20 years, with 15 years suspended, resulting in a total of five years of imprisonment.

However, on July 10, 2023, Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch petitioned a state appeals court to overturn Foxs sentence. According to Fitchs filing, Robinson, who was 62, had preexisting health issues and was on medication, experienced a seizure and, two days later, passed away due to a subdural hematoma. Fitch argued that the conviction should not be upheld.

Throughout the summer, Bettersten had been taking to social media and asking people to help her find her son, but to no avail, but with the last call, the mom said, I knew he was dead.

Bettersten paid a $250 fee to the coroners office and is now able to claim Dexters body. Shes now working on raising funds to have her son exhumed and laid to rest in a proper grave.

The Jackson Police Department responded to reporters inquiries about the case this week. Jackson Police Director of Communications Melissa Faith Payne told local station WLBT: Through collaborative efforts, they were able to close the missing persons case, by identifying Dexter Wade as the pedestrian who was killed. While this is a very tragic and unfortunate accident, our investigation found no malicious intent by any Jackson police staff.

Read the original story here.
The lowest-paid cast members at Disneyland could be getting a wage increase after the California Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal from Disney regarding whether an Anaheim wage law applied to certain employees at the theme park.

As first reported by the Los Angeles Times, the states 4th District Court of Appeal ordered raises and back pay for Disney employees, known as cast members, over the summer after a class-action lawsuit was filed.

Disneys at the end of the road in terms of appeals, Sarah Grossman-Swenson, an attorney representing Disney workers, told the L.A. Times. The appellate decision is clear that Disney is required to comply with the law. The only issue left is the amount of damages.

Disneyland announces opening date for Adventureland Treehouse after extensive refurbishment

In 2018, Anaheim voters passed a law requiring a $15 minimum wage for companies in Anaheims resort area who enjoyed tax rebate agreements with the city. The measure, known as Measure L, was placed on a ballot thanks to a petition led by a coalition of Disney unions, the Times reported.

Ahead of the election, Disney asked the city to dissolve a 45-year gate tax shield and a $267-million bed-tax break for a luxury hotel project that never came to fruition, the Times reported.

Anaheims city attorney initially said that the law wouldnt apply to Disney since the agreements were canceled.

However, a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of cast members begged to differ. The lawsuit claimed that the company was violating the law by failing to pay its workers a living wage.

Noise study identifies the loudest areas at Disneyland and Disneys California Adventure Park

The legal dispute between the two parties seems to be settled with the latest ruling.

We are aware of the Courts decision and will be complying with the requirements of Measure L, Jessica Good, Disneyland Resort spokesperson, said in a statement.

Cast members determined to be impacted by Measure L will receive retroactive pay dating back to Jan. 1, 2019. However, its unclear how many cast members will be affected by this ruling or how much money they will receive.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Though California has legalized the use of recreational marijuana, there are laws surrounding how much you can have and where you can use it.

When it comes to using then driving, how high is too high to drive? How does law enforcement test for a cannabis-induced DUI?

Heres what California law states on driving under the influence of the recreational drug:

Marijuana effects while driving

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety website, marijuana can have the following effects on a driver:

Slows reaction time and ability to make decisions

Controls the part of the brain responsible for body movement, balance and coordination

Impairs judgment and memory

Negatively impacts attentiveness

Impacts perception of time and speed

The effect of marijuana is strongest during the first 30 minutes after consumption, the website states.

While these effects can be delayed if the marijuana is ingested rather than smoked, the website states people who drive immediately after using marijuana can increase their risk of getting into an accident by 25% to 35%.

Is there a legal limit for cannabis and driving?

California Vehicle Code 23152 states it is illegal for a person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol to drive. That includes cannabis.

While Californias level of impairment for drunken driving is a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher for those of legal drinking age, there is no similar way law enforcement measures what is too high.

Matt Radke, a spokesperson for California Highway Patrol, said a persons level of cannabis influence is subjective.

When it comes to driving under the influence of cannabis much like with an alcoholic beverage, it is a totality of circumstances while driving, Radke wrote in an email to The Bee.

A person would get pulled over to be tested for sobriety depending on their driving patterns.

If a person does have drugs in their system at the time they were driving, Radke said it would be determined by a blood test.

Testing is ongoing to assist law enforcement with determining which level of cannabis in the system is too much to be driving, Radke wrote.

Cannabis can be detected in a persons blood system for up to 12 hours, according to the American Addiction Centers website.

Why doesnt California have a set limit for driving under the influence of marijuana?

California law requires the driver to be under the influence of or affected by THC in order to be cited, according to the National Conference of State Legislature website.

However, testing for drug impairment can be irregular due to the limitations of drug-detecting technology and the lack of a set limit.

Drugs do not affect people consistently, the website states. Drugs such as marijuana can also stay in the system for weeks, thus appearing in roadside tests while no longer causing impairment.

In 2021, Dale Gieringer, the coordinator of California National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws, said CHP convened an Impaired Driving Task Force to address these questions.

NORML is a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit organization established in 1970 and serves as an advocate for marijuana consumers to provide a voice in the public policy debate for those Americans who oppose marijuana prohibition and favor an end to the practice of arresting marijuana consumers.

CHP, the reform organization and other interested groups participated in a drug-impaired driving study, in which they analyzed technology options to test for drug use, including field sobriety tests, according to the Impaired Driving Task Forces 2021 report.

In its conclusions, the Task Forces 2021 report recommended against adopting per se limits for drug impairment due to lack of supporting scientific evidence, Gieringer wrote in an email to The Bee.

Per se limits make it illegal to drive with specific levels of drugs or alcohol, according to the Stop Drugged Driving website. Washington and Nevada both have per se limits.

In the Task Forces report, they called for evidence to be collected in a timely manner, recommended laboratories to meet national standards, and voted against adopting per se limits for drug use until there is enough evidence from the scientific community.

Drugs affect people differently depending on many variables, the Task Force stated in the report. A per se limit for drugs, other than ethanol, should not be enacted at this time as current scientific research does not support it.

California legislators have abstained from adopting per se laws for marijuana DUIs on similar grounds, according to the states most recent Impaired Driving Plan published last year.

The basic problem is that the concentration of THC in bodily fluids does not accurately reflect its activity in brain receptors, Gieringer said.

Paul Armentano, the deputy director of NORML, said California has laws criminalizing drugged driving behavior that uses an effect-base standard where circumstances provide evidence as to whether or not someone was recently exposed to or ingested a drug that influenced their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Most states, like California, do not impose so-called per se limits for the presence of cannabis because the detection of these compounds, whether it is in blood, urine, saliva or breath, it is simply not correlated with either psychomotor impairment or cannabis exposure, Armentano wrote in an email to The Bee.

As an alternative to drug detection-testing, Armentano said NORML has long called for the expanded use of performance-based testing like Druid, which has been shown in clinical studies to be more sensitive and accurate at determining cannabis-induced impairment than Field Sobriety Tests.

Druid is a mobile app that tests drivers for motor and cognitive impairment from any substance including cannabis, according to the apps creator, Impairment Science.

To better address DUI cannabis behavior, Armentano said he recommends solutions, including having prosecutors move away from drug detection tests toward drug performance tests, using better field sobriety tests that measure cannabis and providing more expansive training for drug recognition experts using validated measures.

What are the penalties for driving while under the influence?

Once a person drives a motor vehicle, California law states they are considered to have given their consent to chemical testing of their blood or breath for the purpose of determining the drug or alcoholic content of their blood.

The CHP website estimates the average cost at approximately $13,500, including insurance hikes, attorney and legal fees, restricted licensing, days off work to go to court and a criminal record.

According to the NORML website, a person can face a fine of $390 to $1,000 for drugged driving and must also complete a DUI program.

Based on the number of drugged driving offenses within 10 years in California, a person can also have the following penalties:

First offense : a period of 96 hours to six months in jail and license suspension for six months.

Second offense : a period of 90 days to one year in jail and license suspension for two years.

Third offense : a period of 120 days to one year in jail, license suspension for three years and an ignition interlock device.

Fourth and subsequent offense: imprisonment for a period of 180 days to one year, license suspension for four years and an ignition interlock device.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.
Stray dogs are notorious for getting into predicaments but rescuers still arent sure how one canine got trapped atop a spillway in a walled Florida canal.

It happened Tuesday, Oct. 24, in Port Mayaca, a sparsely populated area east of Lake Okeechobee known for hosting the Port Mayaca lock and dam.

The dog somehow ended up on a spillway with a 12-foot drop around the rim canal with no way to safely escape, the Martin County Sheriffs Office reports. After a citizen called us about the trapped animal, the officers went to work.

Wendy Diaz told station WPBF she found the dog in the middle of nowhere and large alligators were seen swimming below the spillway.

Luckily, water levels were low at the time, photos show. Had a storm crossed the area, the dog could have been swept away over the spillway by the deluge.

A trio of local and state officers reached the dog by hauling in ladders so they could climb between the concrete walls.

Photos show the dog was initially wary, but eventually surrendered to the idea of being cornered.

It took some time and maneuvering but they didnt give up, the sheriffs office said. Tonight the dog is in good shape and in great hands at the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

Sarah Fisher, communications manager for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast, says the bully breed dog appears to be in good health, but the staff has not found a microchip or tags.

Shes on a stray hold for five days and we are trying to find the potential owner. She looks young but we wont know for sure until we check her teeth, Fisher told McClatchy News in an email. Shes eating well but is very scared still. Shes a friendly dog and wants attention but then gets extremely scared when we approach her.

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Kidnapped chameleon rescued by trucker who saw it trying to cross busy Florida road
WASHINGTON  Justice Department prosecutors urged a federal judge Wednesday to reinstate the gag order against Donald Trump for commenting on potential witnesses in his election conspiracy case.

The filing came the same day a New York judge fined Trump $10,000 for his second violation of a gag order in his civil fraud trial.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan ordered Trump on Oct. 16 not to comment about court staff, prosecutors or witnesses in her case. But she suspended the order Friday while he appeals her decision.

During the suspension, Trump commented on social media Tuesday about former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows.

Special counsel Jack Smiths team argued in a Wednesday filing that Trump's history of targeting perceived adversaries with "disparaging and inflammatory comments" poses "a grave threat to the very notion of a fair trial based on the facts and the law."

"There has never been a criminal case in which a court has granted a defendant an unfettered right to try his case in the media, malign the presiding judge as a 'fraud' and a 'hack,' attack the prosecutor as 'deranged' and a 'thug,' and, after promising witnesses and others, 'IF YOU GO AFTER ME, IM COMING AFTER YOU,' target specific witnesses with attacks on their character and credibility, even suggesting that one witnesss actions warrant the punishment of 'DEATH!'," Smith's team said.

Former President Donald Trump sits in court with his attorney Christopher Kise during his civil fraud trial at New York State Supreme Court on October 24, 2023 in New York City. The former president may be forced to sell off his properties after Justice Arthur Engoron canceled his business certificates and ruled that he committed fraud for years while building his real estate empire after being sued by Attorney General Letitia James, seeking $250 million in damages. The trial will determine how much he and his companies will be penalized for the fraud.

Trump has argued he has a First Amendment right to comment on the half-dozen criminal and civil trials he faces. He contends the Biden administration is trying to muzzle him as he campaigns for president in 2024.

"No Court in American history has imposed a gag order on a criminal defendant who is campaigning for public office  least of all, on the leading candidate for President of the United States," Trump's lawyers wrote in their memo asking Chutkan to suspend her order during the appeal. "This violation of the First Amendment is egregious and intolerable."

The federal gag order was the second imposed against Trump. The judge presiding over his New York fraud trial, Arthur Engoron, ordered Trump on Oct. 3 not to comment on court staff. Engoron fined him $5,000 on Friday for leaving a social-media post featuring a court clerk visible on Trump's campaign web site for two weeks and $10,000 on Wednesday for a hallway comment the judge ruled was about the clerk.

Trump said under oath he was referring to a witness, Michael Cohen. But Engoron said he found Trump "not credible."

Federal prosecutors initially asked for a gag order before his trial scheduled May 20 on charges he tried to overturn the 2020 election by arguing his comments could intimidate witnesses and lead to threats of violence against court staff and prosecutors. Trump faces four charges and has pleaded not guilty.

Then-White House chief of staff Mark Meadows speaks with reporters at the White House, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2020, in Washington.

Meadows, a co-defendant with Trump in the Georgia election conspiracy case, could also be a key witness in the federal case because he arranged and attended meetings at the heart of the alleged election conspiracy. Meadows participated in Trumps call Jan. 2, 2021, asking Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to find enough votes for him to win the state. Meadows also tried to observe an audit of ballots in Cobb County, Georgia, but was turned away.

Meadows has pleaded not guilty in Georgia and argued he should be immune from prosecution because he was simply doing his job managing Trumps meetings as chief of staff.

ABC News and others have reported that Meadows has met repeatedly with Smiths team as a possible witness in the federal case.

Trump said in a post Tuesday on Truth Social he didnt think Meadows would lie about the election just to get an immunity deal, to avoid losing money and possible be imprisoned. Trump said people taking plea deals are weaklings and cowards.

Contributing: Aysha Bagchi

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump's federal gag order should be reinstated: DOJ
Measures tied to organized labor were the focus at the Illinois Capitol Wednesday as the state House voted to allow legislative staffers to organize while a politically powerful union and a downstate energy company announced a temporary hold on efforts to pass a measure allowing the utility to build transmission lines without going through a competitive bidding process.

Supporters of legislation to give Ameren Illinois the right of first refusal to build transmission lines in its territory acknowledged Wednesday that they dont have enough support in the Democratic-controlled General Assembly to override Gov. J.B. Pritzkers veto of that portion of energy legislation approved in the spring.

Pritzkers veto was cheered by consumer advocates and environmentalists, but it angered some of the governors organized labor allies. The governor argued that allowing Ameren to build the lines without taking part in competitive bidding would ultimately raise rates for the utilitys customers.

At a statehouse news conference, representatives of the Springfield-based International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 51 argued that the proposal is necessary to make sure infrastructure needed to support a transition to renewable energy is built with in-state union labor.

Ameren Illinois Chairman and President Leonard Singh on Tuesday wrote in a letter to lawmakers that the companys reputation had been subjected to well-funded misinformation campaigns by out-of-state developers and special interests who opposed the proposal.

Singh said the right of first refusal is the best option to prevent unnecessary delays in construction and hundreds of millions of dollars in potential cost overruns and that it would keep projects within the purview of state, rather than federal, regulators.

The original measure was approved by a veto-proof majority in the Senate, but not in the House, making a veto override all but impossible.

State Rep. Larry Walsh, the Elwood Democrat who sponsored the original measure, vowed to return in the spring with an even broader proposal to give utilities statewide the permanent right of first refusal on transmission projects. That would include scandal-plagued Commonwealth Edison.

Were looking at doing a full education swing in the spring, Walsh said. We want to educate the public, the members of the legislature, ratepayers, etc.  the media  that this is the right policy. And hopefully when we get done doing this education, bringing the facts out, people are going to understand that this is the best option for them.

Its unclear whether such a campaign would prove convincing to Pritzker, who could once again wield his veto pen to stop it from becoming law.

Last month, Pritzker spokeswoman Jordan Abudayyeh tied the governors veto of the previous proposal to the ongoing federal corruption probe that saw ComEd admitting it attempted to bribe former House Speaker Michael Madigan to advance the utilitys agenda in Springfield.

The measure was approved this spring not long after four former ComEd executives and lobbyists were convicted of participating in a scheme to bribe Madigan. That suggested some lawmakers had learned absolutely nothing from the trials that were taking place as they passed it, Abudayyeh told Politico.

When the governor said the days of backroom deals for utility companies are over, he meant it, she said.

In response to Walshs comments Wednesday, Pritzker spokesman Alex Gough said, Well review that proposal if it makes its way through the General Assembly, but the governors concerns on the issue have not changed.

Also Wednesday, the Democratic-controlled House advanced a measure in a 74-35 vote that would allow legislative staffers from both parties within the General Assembly to become part of a union. The legislation will now move to the Senate, also led by Democrats.

We have almost 200 hardworking employees that work behind the scenes that make this place go, House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, a Democrat from Hillside, said on the House floor, referring to staffers in his office. Theres a whole lot of people here that deserve equal opportunity to join a union.

Welchs employees, whose roles include research and legislative functions, publicly announced the formation of the Illinois Legislative Staff Association earlier this year and for months afterward said the speaker refused to discuss the matter with them. The speakers office, however, has said Welchs top officials communicated with the staffers earlier this year and explained how the law didnt allow them to be voluntarily recognized as a union.

On Wednesday, Welch praised his employees for bringing the issue forward.

Its OK to think again. When we pause and think again we can learn new ways of doing things. We can get fresh perspectives on how those things can be done, Welch said.

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.

Deputy Republican Leader Ryan Spain, who voted against the bill, said he doesnt know what the bill will do to improve conditions for staffers.

Im one who believes in, could point to many examples of all-nighters here in this chamber or at the Bank of Springfield Center that, in my opinion, have not resulted in very good outcomes at a policy level and they certainly werent (a) very good environment for our staff to work, said Spain, of Peoria. I dont know what this bill will do to change those realities for our staff or for the decisions we make in this chamber.

Separately, the Senate approved a measure Wednesday that aims to address problems Pritzker identified in legislation he vetoed that would have required schools and state institutions to offer kosher and halal meals.

Pritzker wrote in his veto message that while he supported efforts to provide students with culturally appropriate meals at school, the legislation as drafted would have required the Illinois State Board of Education to enter into a contract it could not execute.

The compromise version, sponsored by Democratic state Sen. Ram Villivalam of Chicago, would instead require the state board to find vendors statewide from which local school districts could order prepackaged halal or kosher meals.

The measure was approved on a 43-15 vote and now heads to the House.

Petrella reported from Chicago.

dpetrella@chicagotribune.com

jgorner@chicagotribune.com
ASHEVILLE - Over the past two weeks, the Asheville Police Department has released updated crime numbers for 2023 and announced new targeted special operations informed by APDs data analytics team, which led to 62 recent arrests and citations.

Of the individuals cited or arrested, over half listed A-Hope Day Center as their permanent address, according to court records, leading some to question APDs priorities.

Im just really concerned that the police department is making it a priority to do these lower-level citations that have included panhandling, second-degree trespass, drug paraphernalia, Densen Gelfand said in the public comment section of an Oct. 24 Environment and Safety Committee meeting. Whats going to happen when these people are brought into the criminal justice system?  We need to be supporting these people, not citing these people.

When a similar concern was raised by council member Kim Roney at City Council Oct. 10, saying it puts staff in a terrible situation while upcoming homelessness solutions are not yet available, Chief David Zack grabbed the microphone and said, If they are breaking the law and consistently breaking the law, theyll be arrested.

Asheville Police Chief David Zack talks to City Council, October 10, 2023.

Our officers have shown, repeatedly, discretion at every instance, Zack continued. But at some point, when discretion no longer works, we will use all the tools in the tool belt, which includes making arrests.

More: Some of Asheville's $2.7 million in opioid funds proposed for Fire Department program

What will these 'targeted operations' focus on?

Regarding how APD has shifted its use of staff in the past two years to address crime while staffing levels remain 42% down as of Oct. 3, both spokesperson Samantha Booth and Deputy Chief Mike Lamb mentioned the various targeted operations to the Citizen Times. When asked what types of crimes or locations these operations will focus on, Lamb said It depends on the data.

We work closely with our crime analyst team, using a computer statistics model, Lamb told the Citizen Times. We meet on a monthly basis at least to look at crime trends, and also specific crimes and who are committing those crimes.

Lamb said that the Community Engagement, Control Division, Detectives Division and the Criminal Investigations Division work with APD crime analysts to see who the prolific repeat offenders are.

And we find that a lot of these repeat offenders are committing the vast majority of crime, Lamb added. Weve shifted our focus over this last probably six to seven months to address and look at these repeat offenders and be able to hold them accountable for the disproportionate number of crimes that they're committing.

Regarding the 62 arrests and citations, most of which were for trespassing, Lamb said Thats one of the big community complaints weve been getting over the last couple of months.

When asked about concerns from members of the community regarding how recent operations led to 32 arrests of Ashevilles homeless population, Lamb said, We are not trying to criminalize homelessness, but what we are trying to do is address criminal activity.

We heard it resonate from the downtown business owners and employees about how theres folks that are experiencing homelessness, and  they need to be able to have resources to combat their addiction and get back to a state where their mental health is stabilized, Lamb told the Citizen Times. But then theres a group of folks that are unhoused, that commit crimes.

But as far as how often these operations will occur, what areas will be encompassed, and what crimes will be targeted, the deputy chief said thats all dependent on what APD data indicates.

What's the cost of officers working more overtime?

In the special operations, officers from nearly every division in the department were working outside their normal shifts, an APD news release said.

APDs downtown presence, spurred by the Downtown Safety Initiative, has also been covered through increased officer overtime. Deputy Chief Jackie Stepp told City Council Oct. 10 that overtime for officers downtown increased by 10% in July, 20% in August, and 13% in September.

Over 27 days in September, Booth said APD officers worked a total of 4,355.5 hours of overtime, totaling $234,434.70 of overtime paid. Thats roughly $8,683 per day.

In comparison, for a period of 77 days at the beginning of 2022, sworn APD officers worked 7,972.67 overtime hours for a total of $390,707.94 overtime paid, roughly $5,074 per day.

In the pay period running from Dec. 24, 2022, to Oct. 13, 2023, APD officers worked a total of 40,167.83 overtime hours, totaling $2,060,369.31 overtime paid, Booth told the Citizen Times Oct. 25.

The last full-year data currently available for officer overtime is from 2021, when sworn officers were paid a total of $813,842.38 in overtime.

More: Asheville Police names Henderson County native as first female deputy chief

Is downtown a crime hotspot? How is increased police presence affecting crime numbers?

When downtown saw a spike in both violent and property crimes during the Downtown Safety Initiative, Lamb attributed this to more officers being in the area and spotting crime as it was occurring. He told the Citizen Times, If those officers werent there, those reports and those arrests would not have been made.

Downtown has been referenced as a crime hotspot by APD, with Stepp telling City Council Oct. 10 that 10% of all city crime happens downtown.

However, data presented by Lamb at the Environment and Safety Committee meeting Oct. 24 indicates that recently, violent crime is happening less often downtown than other places around Asheville. From July 1 through Sept. 30, Ashevilles Central District saw 20 instances of violent crime, while the West Districts had 63 reports of violent crime, the Northeast Districts had 62, and South Asheville had 26.

This geographical graph depicts APD data on citywide violent crime in the third quarter of 2023, presented at an Oct. 23 Environment and Safety Committee meeting.

More: Sheriff gives 2023 Buncombe County crime data, eyes making co-responder program permanent

Violent crime in the Central Business District is down 21% through Oct. 1 of this year compared to last year, and property crime is down 8% in the same period, according to Stepps presentation at council. Now that crime has tapered off in the Central Business District, APD attributes this to "increased enforcement downtown, Stepp told City Council Oct. 10.

How can police presence contribute to both spikes in crime and decreased crime? Lamb says its about context and timing.

If you increase police presence in an area that had less police presence, especially in a crime hotspot, theres going to be reports and arrests made; but then with consistent police presence over time, that levels off because it sets expectations on behavior within a certain geographic area, Lamb told the Citizen Times.

Lamb also mentioned how there are a lot of factors that cause crime rates to fluctuate within a certain municipality, but this years pattern seems to be different than years past.

Usually in normal patterns, crime spikes when it gets warmer, theres people visiting from the summer, so it spikes in July, but it actually went down then and spiked in the spring of this year, Lamb told the Citizen Times.

In the Environment and Safety meeting Oct. 24, council member Sheneika Smith said to Lamb: Asheville has a track record of responding to the loudest and who is more persistent. It does not mean that you are the most impacted.  So, my question is, as were coordinating a lot of our responses or a lot of our resources to focus on downtown, what are we doing for other geographic areas that kind of need that proactive approach as well?

In response, Lamb said: Its hard to continually keep a presence in all these areas, because we see the complaints coming in a variety of areas and communities that have different complaints.  I think as trends shift and crime shifts geographically, we have to shift to those areas as well.

Asheville crime at a glance

This bar graph depicts the number of violent crimes in the City of Asheville from Jan. 1 through Oct. 31 every year since 2018, based on APD data.

Violent crime citywide is down 18% this year through Oct. 1 as compared to the same period in 2022, down from 562 crimes in 2022 to 460 in 2023, according to APD data. Yet, citywide violent crime year-to-date remains higher than the same period in 2021, 2020, 2019 and 2018.

Citywide property crime is 4% lower through Oct. 1 in 2023 as compared to 2022, dropping from 3,796 crimes in 2022 to 3,072 in 2023, APD data shows.

So far this year, APD has made 387 arrests and issued 460 citation charges in downtown Asheville, averaging 37 arrests and 49 citations per month through September.

More: NC SBI report: Buncombe County crime rate down 15% last year; What about Asheville?

When asked why there has been more concern raised by business owners and residents regarding crime downtown  despite property crime numbers affecting businesses, such as burglary and larceny, having decreased in 2022, according to State Bureau of Investigation data, and decreased so far in 2023, according to APD data  Lamb attributed it to underreporting.

Lamb mentioned that APD no longer responds to certain calls where a crime is not currently in progress, if the offense is not tied to domestic violence, or if there is no forensic value, such as fingerprints or blood, to collect. Instead, they ask citizens to complete a police report on APDs online reporting tool, which he thinks is contributing to underreporting.

A lot of businesses just arent taking the time to do that, Lamb said. And thats something weve repeatedly heard from downtown businesses, but also some big box ones like Lowes, Walmart, Home Depot.

When asked if the dispatch center still makes a note of the reported crime if an individual calls 911 not knowing that APD patrol officers no longer respond to that specific crime, Lamb said hes not 100% sure because dispatch is run by Buncombe County Emergency Services.

Regarding calls received for specific crimes APD patrol no longer respond to, such as panhandling, 911 Division Manager Brooke Hazlett said, I would say we still get a lot of calls that probably end up going through P2C (APDs online reporting tool) or whatever alternative process.

When dispatch receives this type of call, Hazlett said they still log the call with the alleged crime in their reporting system, called CAD.

We would build that call and dispatch an officer to it," Hazlett told the Citizen Times Oct. 10. "Now, whether that officer calls you and says, Hey, we dont do this anymore, or whether that officer goes out to that location is beyond the scope of 911. But my building that call and then dispatching someone on that call, that is a call for service.

For the crime to be included in crime statistics, such as NC SBIs numbers, an officer must make a crime report in a system called RMS, Hazlett said. Therefore, these calls for service may not end up in total crime numbers if it's later determined no crime was committed or if a report was never completed, but they would be considered in call-for-service numbers.

I do think just as a citizen, one of the important factors is it's not that Asheville doesn't respond, its that patrol doesnt respond, Hazlett said. It does still go through a process that does go into the Asheville Police Department, but it is ultimately still handled the same as if a patrol officer did respond, but theyre short cutting that initial process of how it gets into the system.

We really want to ask the public to please use our reporting tool until we can get our staffing back up, because that helps us to more accurately predict where our resources are needed," Lamb said. "The more data we have, the more effectively we can address the crimes that are occurring.

Ryley Ober is the Public Safety Reporter for Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at rober@gannett.com and follow her on Twitter @ryleyober

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: APD shares crime data, targeted operations, $2 million in overtime
Two women and a girl killed when their SUV burst into flames in a horrific crash near the Zaragoza Bridge died of blunt force trauma and not the fire, according to preliminary autopsy results, a state prosecutor said.

The causes of death were mentioned Wednesday at a teleconference bond hearing for Carlos Alejandro Martinez, 21, of Horizon City, who faces three counts of murder along with charges of causing a death while evading arrest and possession of cocaine.

On Oct. 14, Martinez was allegedly fleeing from an El Paso police officer who tried to pull him over for speeding when Martinez ran a red light and T-boned the SUV at the intersection of Zaragoza Road and South Americas Avenue.

The victims were identified by family and court documents as the driver, Nikki Delgadillo, 31, front passenger, Marylin Aileen Rojas, 27, and her daughter, 8-year-old Delilah Madelyn Rodriguez, who was in the back seat.

Defense lawyer: Murder charges 'a stretch' in fatal Zaragoza crash

At the bond hearing, Martinez's attorney, Dereck L. Wyatt, suggested that prosecutors were overcharging his client with murder, saying he had a similar case about eight years ago resulting in a mistrial.

"I understand their theory of murder on these (cases), but it's a little bit of a stretch," Wyatt told Magistrate Judge Antonio Aun.

Carlos Alejandro Martinez

Martinez was initially booked into the El Paso County Jail Downtown on a total bond of $3.5 million ($1 million on each murder charge). At the hearing, Aun reduced the bond total to $2.41 million (including $750,000 on each murder case).

Martinez had made it up to the 10th grade at Horizon High School and had been working for the last eight months selling solar panels, Wyatt said. If freed from jail on bond, he would live with his mother near Riverside High School.

According to a complaint affidavit filed by El Paso police, Martinez is accused of murder for allegedly committing "an act clearly dangerous to human life" by refusing to stop and speeding away from police while evading arrest in a vehicle, which is a felony under Texas law.

Speeding driver, deadly collision

About 8:25 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14, an El Paso police officer, identified as Officer D. Lopez, was stationary doing speeding enforcement on the Cesar Chavez Border Highway near Padres Drive as part of the grant-funded Texas Department of Transportation's Selective Traffic Enforcement Program, or STEP, according to the complaint affidavit.

Officer Lopez saw a brown SUV eastbound approaching his patrol car from the rear at a high speed. Police radar clocked the SUV going 77 mph in a 60 mph zone, the affidavit stated.

The officer turned on his flashing red-and-blue lights and attempted to pull over the Nissan Armada for speeding.

At the bond hearing, Assistant District Attorney Raoaa King mentioned that police information showed that the Nissan slowed down slightly and then sped up to 82 mph.

A makeshift memorial for victims Nikki Delgadillo, Marylin Aileen Rojas and her 8-year-old daughter Delilah Madelyn Rodriguez stands at the scene where they died after a driver allegedly fleeing from El Paso police ran a red light and slammed into their SUV on the Saturday morning of Oct. 14 at the intersection of Zaragoza Road and South Americas Avenue by the Zaragoza Bridge.

The driver didn't stop and exited at Americas Avenue. The affidavit stated that "the officer was unable to close the distance" between the police car and the speeding SUV.

A police news release stated that the officer "disengaged" the traffic stop. From a distance, the officer saw the SUV enter the intersection of Americas Avenue and Zaragoza Road, the affidavit stated.

More: Details on UTEP tailgate DWI suspect who hit family on ghost tour in Downtown El Paso

The Nissan Armada slammed into a 2008 Mazda Tribute at a 90-degree angle at the intersection before both SUVs slid across the intersection, the affidavit stated.

The Mazda then crashed into a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, stopped at a red light, waiting to go north on Zaragoza before the Mazda crashed into a traffic light pole, where it came to rest. The Mazda was leaking gasoline underneath and soon caught fire.

Several witnesses told police that the Nissan entered the intersection on a red light at a high speed.

SUV bursts into flames with victims inside

After the crash, police video allegedly recorded Martinez attempting to leave the scene after he exited his vehicle, King said.

A bystander's TikTok video circulating on social media shows Officer Lopez scuffle with Martinez, who at one point attempts to open the rear hatch of the SUV that burned. The officer shocks him with an electric stun gun and Martinez falls sideways to the ground before being arrested.

Soccer teammates honor Delilah Madelyn Rodriguez, 8, at a vigil for the victims on Oct. 17 at West Texas Estates Park in far East El Paso. (Credit: GABY VELASQUEZ/ EL PASO TIMES)

In the video, law enforcement officers drag Martinez away before flames start flowing out from underneath the SUV as onlookers off camera yell, saying there are people inside. The SUV became engulfed in fire despite efforts by police and U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers to douse the flames with fire extinguishers.

All three occupants of the Mazda were inside the SUV as it burned and died at the scene.

A preliminary autopsy report by county medical examiner Dr. Mario A. Rascon indicates that the victims "died from blunt force trauma, not the fire," King said at the hearing.

'I was drinking and then I don't know'

Police noted that Martinez allegedly had an odor of alcohol on his breath, along with glassy, watery eyes, the affidavit stated. Martinez had seatbelt marks on the left side of his neck and chest. There was blood on the left side of his face and possible injuries to his left elbow and hands. He told police that everything hurt.

King added that police allegedly found 8.5 grams of cocaine in a little strap bag that Martinez had with him.

When questioned by another police officer, Martinez confirmed that he was the driver of the Nissan and that the vehicle belonged to his "jefe," Spanish slang for "father" though it means "boss" or "chief."

Crime: Bold, bald thieves sought in rampant beer thefts across El Paso

Police reported that Martinez "appeared to be lost," confused and evasive. He told police that he didn't know what happened. He didn't know where he was or where he was attempting to drive to, the affidavit stated.

Police asked him what was the last thing he remembered. "I was drinking and then I don't know," Martinez replied, according to the affidavit.

Was anyone else in his vehicle before the crash? "No, yes, I don't know." Martinez answered.

Affidavit: Passenger told driver to brake before crash

Martinez and his passengers, Alex Bolado, 24, of Horizon City, and Isaih Dominguez, 21, of El Paso, were injured and taken to hospitals. Dominguez's injuries were serious and he remains hospitalized, the prosecution said Wednesday.

Courts: Man sentenced to 15 years in prison in fatal DWI crash that killed mother, 6-year-old son

At University Medical Center of El Paso, police spoke with Bolado, the front passenger in the Armada. Bolado said his friend Martinez was driving eastbound on the highway when they passed a law enforcement vehicle on the side of the roadway, the affidavit stated.

Bolado told police that he felt the SUV going faster when police got behind them. Bolado recalled telling Martinez to brake as they approached the Americas Avenue and Zaragoza Road intersection before the collision, the affidavit stated.

The impact caused Dominguez, who was in the rear seat, to be thrown into the front seats. Bolado recalled the other SUV catching on fire and CBP officers assisting at the scene, according to the affidavit.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: New details in El Paso case of driver accused of 3 murders in crash
Smoke billows near a home from the Black Forest Fire on June 12, 2013 north of Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Even after smoke from a wildfire has visibly cleared, lingering toxins indoors can tank air quality and threaten our health. Harmful chemicals stick around on surfaces and release into the airand, new research found, air filters wont get rid of them.

In a study published this month in Science Advances, scientists documented how smoke leaves behind chemicals known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that remain on surfaces inside a home. Those chemicals are emitted back into the air for days after wildfire smoke has cleared up outside, polluting the air inside of a home and exposing residents to various health risks. Air purifiers didnt get rid of these chemicals, but the researchers found that cleaning surfacesmopping floors and washing wallsdid significantly reduce the VOCs that could be detected in the air.

Read more

The researchers opened windows and doors to ventilate the home they were experimenting in, but they found that the VOC levels increased again as soon as they stopped ventilating. The only permanent solution was cleaning. Farmer noted that the need to strategically clean indoors after wildfires will be relevant to ever more people across North America, referencing the apocalyptic wildfire events throughout the continent this summer. Even people far from a fire were affected, as clouds of smoke spread from Canada to the U.S. Northeast.

When asked about improving indoor air during a smoke event that lasts for days, Farmer suggested an air purifier during the smoke event to decrease the amount of particulate matter in the air, and to clean surfaces for VOCs soon afterward. The longer you wait to clean, the longer youre going to be exposed, she said.

These results are relevant to other, less dramatic events that affect indoor air quality. Although this paper focuses on wildfire smoke, our results may apply to other air pollution scenarios, including intensive cooking, infiltration of heavy urban smog, cigarette smoking, or other indoor emission activities, the team said in a statement.

The aftermath of the Maui wildfires in Lahaina, Hawaii

Volunteers from Samaritans Purse help displaced residents search for meaningful personal items at their wildfire destroyed home on October 05, 2023 in Lahaina, Hawaii.



Volunteers from Samaritans Purse help displaced residents search for meaningful personal items at their wildfire destroyed home on October 05, 2023 in Lahaina, Hawaii.

Flames from the Yarnell Hill fire north of Phoenix

The Yarnell Hill fire burns in this view from Highway I-17 June 29, 2013 near the town of Yarnell, Arizona, about 80 miles (128 km) northwest of Phoenix.



The Yarnell Hill fire burns in this view from Highway I-17 June 29, 2013 near the town of Yarnell, Arizona, about 80 miles (128 km) northwest of Phoenix.

The 2021 Dixie Fire quickly exploded in size

A firefighter battles flames during the Dixie Fire in Genesee, California, U.S., on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021. The Dixie Fire grew overnight by nearly 10,000 acres, to 714,219 acres.



A firefighter battles flames during the Dixie Fire in Genesee, California, U.S., on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021. The Dixie Fire grew overnight by nearly 10,000 acres, to 714,219 acres.

The Mendocino Complex fire burned over 400,000 acres in 2018



Cal Fire firefighters monitor a back fire as they battle the Mendocino Complex fire on August 7, 2018 near Lodoga, California.



Cal Fire firefighters monitor a back fire as they battle the Mendocino Complex fire on August 7, 2018 near Lodoga, California.

The 2018 Camp Fire killed more than 80 people

West Sacramento firefighters battle the Camp Fire on Honey Run Road in Paradise, California, on November 9, 2018.



West Sacramento firefighters battle the Camp Fire on Honey Run Road in Paradise, California, on November 9, 2018.

The Tubbs Fire in Northern California killed 22 people

Firefighters try to extinguish a house fire during the Tubbs Fire on October 12, 2017 near Calistoga, California.



Firefighters try to extinguish a house fire during the Tubbs Fire on October 12, 2017 near Calistoga, California.

The Glass Fire in 2020 forced tens of thousands to evacuate

A helicopter refills water for an air drop as the Glass Fire burns about a mile out of downtown Calistoga, California, September 30, 2020.



A helicopter refills water for an air drop as the Glass Fire burns about a mile out of downtown Calistoga, California, September 30, 2020.

The 2021 Caldor Fire burned hundreds of structures, including homes

Fire crews worked to stop the Caldor Fire from spreading in California, United States on August 30, 2021.



Fire crews worked to stop the Caldor Fire from spreading in California, United States on August 30, 2021.

A trailer park in California after the Hennessey Fire in 2020

Destruction from the Hennesey Fire is seen at the Spanish Flat Mobile Villa trailer park in Lake Berryessa, California on August. 26, 2020.



Destruction from the Hennesey Fire is seen at the Spanish Flat Mobile Villa trailer park in Lake Berryessa, California on August. 26, 2020.

More from Gizmodo

Sign up for Gizmodo's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Click here to read the full article.
Its a rare issue that can bring 41 states together for a bipartisan fight. This week, state attorneys general across the political spectrum joined forces in suing Facebook parent company Meta for allegedly using features on Instagram and other platforms that hook young users, while denying or downplaying the risks to their mental health.

This comes two years after states began investigating Meta following revelations that the companys internal research found Instagram was having a negative effect on some teen users mental health. Since then health professionals, including Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy and the American Psychological Assn., have urged tech companies to make their products safer for young people.

Read more: Editorial: Social media is hurting kids. Why hasn't government stepped in?

But there hasnt yet been significant change in the industry. Most companies havent been willing to overhaul their platforms to curb addictive features or harmful content for users under 18 years old, such as setting time limits on their apps or changing algorithms that steer kids into "rabbit holes" to keep them online. Nor have federal lawmakers been able to enact comprehensive product safety regulations because legislation has stalled in Congress or been blocked by courts.

In the absence of policy changes, lawsuits are the next logical step in prodding technology companies to ensure their products are safe for young people or be held accountable. Some have compared the states' legal strategy to lawsuits against Big Tobacco and opioid manufacturers that revealed how the companies lied about the harm caused by their products, and forced them to change their business practices.

Read more: Editorial: Congress is scapegoating TikTok. It's no worse than other social media platforms

Meta is the first target because of the 2021 revelations, but the state attorneys general said this is an industry-wide investigation. They have also begun looking into TikTok.

The federal complaint alleges Meta used harmful and psychologically manipulative product features, such as likes, infinite scroll and constant alerts, to hook young people on Instagram and Facebook and keep them engaged for as much time as possible in order to boost profits. Despite knowing that young users brains are particularly vulnerable to manipulation by such features and internal studies warning that kids were being harmed, Meta allegedly concealed, denied and downplayed the harms.

The lawsuit, which was filed jointly by 33 states, including California, also accused Meta of violating the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act, a federal law that protects the digital privacy of children under 13 years old. Eight states and the District of Columbia filed separate lawsuits in state or federal courts, many alleging that Meta violated state consumer protection laws.

Meta said in a statement that it has already rolled out 30 tools to support teens on its apps since 2021, including reminders on Instagram for teens to take a break and sharing expert resources if kids search for posts on suicide or eating disorders. That's a good start. The company lamented that the states chose to sue rather than work with tech firms "across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards."

Indeed, there is a need for comprehensive safety standards across social media platforms. But a tech lobbying group of which Meta is a member has sued to stop an effort by California, which passed a first-in-the-nation law last year requiring age-appropriate design and child privacy protection. The law was recently put on hold by a federal judge citing 1st Amendment concerns. California Atty. Gen. Rob Bonta has filed an appeal.

This is complex legal and regulatory terrain, and the states' lawsuits are not a sure bet given existing laws that protect online platform companies from being held liable for content posted by users on their sites. Nor will any of these cases be resolved quickly. That's OK. This is an essential fight for the future.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Newly released census data shows exactly how many ethnic groups are represented across the state and how many people identify with each group.

In Contra Costa County, the area has seen a surge of immigrants from the Southeast Asian country of Nepal. And at Zomsa, there is the smell of a simmering, spicy sauce, bringing back memories of Nepal.

"Oh yeah, if you go to Nepal you have to have it," said Manjila Moktan.

Her mother is making Tali, a staple of Nepalese cuisine, with rice, vegetables, and chicken.

Manjila Moktan spent the first 17 years of her life in Nepal before emigrating to the U.S. and settling in the Bay Area.

"I didn't process it. I think I was in shock," said Moktan.

Her father Tara, fled a civil war in Nepal to seek economic opportunity in America, and after saving for years, opened Zomsa in El Cerrito, catering to a fast-growing Nepalese community.

"Now, he sees a lot of people in the streets everywhere, and he just feels like it's Nepal here," said Moktan.

Census data shows Asian Americans are the fastest-growing ethnicity in California. The Nepalese population is also the fastest-growing Asian subgroup in the country.

In Contra Costa County, that number jumped more than 545% from 2010-to-2020.

"You're seeing these newer places where cost-of-living is not as high they are creating enclaves, ethnic, enclaves, or ethnic communities of their own, and I think that's exciting and it'll be important to see what happens over the next decade in terms of the growth," said UC Riverside Public Policy professor Karthick Ramakrishnan.

Ramakrishan, is also the founder of AAPI Data.

"Because of the high cost of living in California, it is more difficult for Latinos, who, on average tend to have lower incomes to remain in California or to come to California when compared to Asian Americans," said Ramakrishnan.

Leaving one's homeland is never easy. But the opportunities abound.

In seven years, Manjila graduated from high school and earned a degree in applied mathematics from UC Santa Barbara and is hoping to work in tech, specializing in data analysis.

"I'm not saying it's easy here, but there's definitely more opportunities here than in Nepal," said Moktan.

"If she works for a big company I'm happy," said owner of Zomsa and Manjila's father Tara Lam.

Her father's smile says it all and so does Manjila's.

"We're just grateful we have a small business here and the whole family is here together. The restaurant is really busy and popular too," said Moktan.

Foodies craving a taste of Nepal gather at Zomsa.

Manjila's family is making strides in their new homeland but are reminded of Nepal, by the smells and taste of home cooked food, almost every day.

The data collected by the Census in 2020 is just being released now because of extra precautions taken to address privacy concerns after the last census results in 2010 were released.

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

What is Syria's role as war in Israel impacts the Middle East?

A Quiet Invasion | Sunday on 60 Minutes
SANTEE, Calif.  An elderly woman who was killed in a fire that broke out in a Santee home earlier this month has been identified.

According to the San Diego County Medical Examiners Office, 80-year-old Donna Mathews was pulled from her burning home on the afternoon of Sunday, Oct. 8.

More Salmonella cases reported from raw milk in San Diego County

The Santee Fire Department responded to the scene in the 10000 block of Ashdale Lane and forced entrance into the home. Mathews was located by firefighters and removed from the residence.

Mathews was transported to UC San Diego Medical Center where her death was pronounced, the medical examiners office confirmed. Her cause of death was listed as inhalation of products of combustion.

San Diego police release photo of woman suspected in MTS trolley stabbing

One other resident was reported to be home at the time of the fire but was able to exit the structure safely.

The Santee Fire Department said one firefighter was moderately injured.

Detectives from the San Diego County Sheriffs Bomb/Arson Unit were sent to the scene to investigate the origin and cause of the fire. No further information on what may have caused the fire has been released at this time.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Elwood Jones is one step closer to permanently being a free man.

The states case against him in a 1994 murder in Blue Ash has fallen to pieces as Hamilton County prosecutors attempt a last-ditch appeal to bring back crucial testimony that was central to their case.

The testimony in question came from former Blue Ash Police officer Michael Bray, who said in Jones original trial that he alone found a necklace belonging to the murder victim, Rhoda Nathan, in Jones car.

Bray testified in the first trial that he found a pendant in a toolbox inside of Jones' car trunk that matched one the victim reportedly wore every day. Bray testified he was alone when he found it, but others had searched the same car without noticing the pendant.

Judge Wende Cross, who overturned Jones conviction in 2022, ruled in a hearing Oct. 19 that the prosecution could not use the testimony because Jones lawyers wouldnt be able to effectively cross-examine Bray, who died in 2018, and Jones has a constitutional right to cross-examination.

A spokesperson for the office of the Hamilton County Prosecutor did not immediately return a phone call.

Judge Wende Cross presides over a hearing in the Elwood Jones case.

Elwood Jones case 'has been destroyed,' prosecution says

Seth Tieger and Phil Cummings, Hamilton County assistant prosecutors, wrote in a court filing Wednesday that their case is now in shambles.

The ruling excluding evidence has rendered the states proof with respect to the pending charge so weak in its entirety that any reasonable possibility of effective prosecution has been destroyed, they wrote.

David Hine and Jay Clark, who represent Jones, said that entering Brays testimony would have violated Jones right to a fair trial.

The reality is their case to the extent it ever existed was already gutted because it happened in August, Hine said. They have no witnesses. They have literally no case.

In August, less than a year after she threw out Jones' conviction because the state withheld evidence, Cross decided none of the original trial testimony from the 1996 case could come into the retrial, but prosecutors argued that Bray's testimony specifically should be allowed to stay in.

They argued that the more than 4,000 pages of discovery material that was withheld in the original 1996 case  which included witness statements that pointed to other potential suspects in the case and details about Bray allegedly finding Nathan's pendant in Jones' car  did not undermine Bray's testimony. Cross punted on making a ruling on Bray until defense lawyers had a chance to submit what they considered proof otherwise.

She ultimately ruled that the testimony must be excluded because the defense cannot cross-examine Bray because he died five years ago. Another key witness, the doctor who insisted that Jones sustained a controversial hand injury by punching Nathan in the mouth, is also dead.

Theres no timeline for Ohio's 1st District Court of Appeals to rule on the appeal, but as a matter of law, if the states request is denied, charges against Jones would be dropped.

Elwood Jones on March 14, shortly after his release from prison.

Elwood Jones long maintained his innocence

A jury convicted Jones, now 70, in the 1994 murder of Nathan, a New Jersey grandmother fatally beaten in her Blue Ash hotel room while in town for a friends grandsons bar mitzvah. Jones had been scheduled to die multiple times in the subsequent decades. The state delayed his execution date several times for appeals, and then, more recently, because of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing issues with lethal-injection medications.

Jones, who is Black, worked at the hotel where Nathan was killed and has maintained his innocence since a hand injury he sustained on the day of Nathan's death put him in investigators' crosshairs. Cross overturned Jones conviction in late 2022 after his lawyers demonstrated in a three-day court hearing that police and prosecutors withheld evidence, including the reams of discovery material, in the original trial.

Meanwhile, Jones has had several cardiac procedures since his release, including bypass surgeries that have left open wounds on each of his legs. Because of that, he had his electronic-monitoring unit removed.

Prosecutors for decades argued that Jones is guilty. In a radio interview after Cross overturned Jones conviction, former Hamilton County Prosecutor Joe Deters called him a "murderous bastard," while Tieger told Cross that "the only thing that can stop him is prison."

"Hes 70 years old," Tieger said in January. "Hes got a lot of crime left in him."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Elwood Jones closer to freedom as Ohio tries to revive murder case
In May 1905, Russia's navy suffered a resounding defeat by the Japanese at the Battle of Tsushima.

It sealed Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War and eliminated much of Russia's influence in Asia.

The battle is a lesson about complacency in the face of new threats, a top US Air Force official says.

A devastating naval defeat 118 years ago blunted a major European power's ambitions in Asia and marked the emergence of a newly dominant Asian military.

The lopsided clash between Imperial Japan and Imperial Russia at the Battle of Tsushima in March 1905 cemented Japan's victory in the Russo-Japanese War, virtually eliminated Russia's influence from the Asia-Pacific for decades, and affirmed Japan as military power equal to major Western nations.

Even now, the battle can be seen as a lesson about complacency in the face of new threats, according to Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall , the service's top civilian official.

Russia and Japan in 1905 are not the US and China today, and Russia's failure at Tsushima "has little to do" with the situation the US faces now, Kendall said a speech at the Air and Space Forces Association conference in September, but the battle is still a warning about what can happen when established powers aren't prepared to face ascendant rivals.

Great-power competition

Japanese soldiers relieve Russian troops in an outer fort at Port Arthur after the Russian surrender in 1905. George Rinhart/Corbis via Getty Images

The events leading up to the Battle of Tsushima were quintessential examples of great-power competition in the era of imperialism.

Imperial Japan, newly industrialized and armed with a strong military based on those of Europe and the US, began pursuing its ambitions on the Asian mainland, chiefly in China and Korea, winning a major victory over China in 1895.

This put it in direct competition with Imperial Russia. Following China's defeat, Russia sought to expand its influence in China and Korea. Russia gained a lease on Port Arthur  now part of Dalian in China  in 1898, effectively giving it control of the Liaodong Peninsula, which juts into the Yellow Sea.

The Russians hoped to connect Port Arthur, at the time their only warm-water port on the Pacific, with the Trans-Siberian Railway and were expanding their influence within the court of Korea's ruling dynasty.

Japanese ships, seen from the battleship Asahi, sail to meet the Russians at Tsushima on May 27, 1905. Shigetada Seki via Wikimedia Commons

Unable to negotiate mutually beneficial terms with Russia on the future of the region, Tokyo sent the Imperial Japanese Navy to attack the main part of Russia's Pacific Fleet at Port Arthur on February 8, 1904 in one of history's first major surprise attacks. Japan formally declared war a few hours later.

Japan quickly gained the naval advantage, fighting off the Russian Pacific Fleet's attempt to break its blockade of Port Arthur and defeating Russian navy reinforcements at Chemulpo Bay and Ulsan.

The Japanese soon brought Port Arthur under siege from land, and Russia, with no alternatives, allocated almost 40 ships from its Baltic Fleet to the newly created 2nd Pacific Squadron, which it then sent to Asia to save Port Arthur.

'Completely destroyed'

Russian battleship Oriol at a Japanese naval shipyard after it was surrendered following the Battle of Tsushima in May 1905. Russian and Soviet photo archive via Wikimedia Commons

After a grueling and accident-prone seven-month, 18,000-mile journey, the squadron reached the Tsushima Strait between Korea and Japan on May 27, 1905, where the Japanese promptly obliterated it.

Twenty-one Russian ships were sunk or scuttled and seven more were captured. Only three ships reached Vladivostok, though six others made it to neutral ports in China, the Philippines, and Madagascar.

Over 5,000 Russians sailors were killed and more than 6,000 were captured. Japan lost only three torpedo boats, as well as 117 sailors killed and about 500 wounded.

Russian cruiser Oleg, with damage from the Battle of Tsushima, in Manila Bay in June 1905. Collection of P.H. Proctor via Wikimedia Commons

"The Battle of Tsushima Straits did not go well for Russia," Kendall, a self-proclaimed history buff, said at the conference. "The entire Russian fleet was completely destroyed."

The battle was the final nail in the coffin for Russia's war effort. Japan had captured Port Arthur before the 2nd Pacific Squadron arrived in May, and another Russian defeat at Mukden two months earlier destroyed any hope of a victory via a land campaign.

Having lost virtually all its naval power in the Pacific, Russia was no longer in a position to strike at Japan effectively or even realistically. Japan indicated a willingness to begin negotiations mediated by President Theodore Roosevelt, and the Russians, with no other options, had to sue for peace.

'A long shadow'

A fighter jet takes off of the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong in the Pacific near Okinawa in April 2023. Japanese Defense Ministry/HANDOUT via REUTERS

The US and China today are not the Russia and Japan of 118 years ago, and the US military faces circumstances distinct from those that confronted Russia at the time, but the Battle of Tsushima had far-reaching consequences that are still relevant now, Kendall argued in his speech.

"A major power, Russia, lost its influence in Asia. A major power, again Russia, saw its military credibility evaporate," Kendall said.

The outcome of the battle "amplified" the arms race between Britain and Germany and fed a perception in Imperial Germany that Russia was weak and could be dealt with in the event of a conflict, leading the Germans to feel "comfortable" entering a two-front war nine years later, Kendall said.

A Chinese fighter jet conducting "a coercive and risky" intercept of a US aircraft over the South China Sea in June 2022. US Defense Department

Russia's navy, which never truly recovered, experienced several mutinies in the following years, which "helped pave the way for the Russian Revolution in 1917 and the creation of the Soviet Union," Kendall said. In Asia, a rising Japan "gained the confidence to defy European powers and the US," leading it to annex Korea in 1910, invade Manchuria in 1931 and China in 1937, and, ultimately, to attack Pearl Harbor in 1941.

"The point of all this is that operational and tactical defeats, especially when they involve rising and existing great powers, could have major strategic consequences," Kendall added.

Kendall has made countering China a focal point of his tenure. He and other US officials often stress that a war with China is not inevitable but that the US military needs to improve its readiness and capabilities in order to deter such a conflict.

"History, including some recent history, tells us that deterrence can and sometimes does fail. If our power-projection capability and capacity are not adequate to deter Chinese aggression against Taiwan or elsewhere, war could occur," Kendall said. "If it does and we cannot prevail, the results could cast a long shadow."

Read the original article on Business Insider
SAN DIEGO  SeaWorld San Diego welcomed the first Emperor penguin chick to hatch at the theme park since 2010, animal officials said.

Bringing this chick into the world and ensuring her well-being and survival around the clock has been a very rewarding process for me and the entire SeaWorld Aviculture team, said Justin Brackett, Curator of Birds at SeaWorld San Diego.

Emperor Penguins, who depend on sea ice as their habitat for breeding, raising chicks and molting, are listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act due to the loss of Antarctic sea ice and rising sea levels, according to SeaWorld San Diego.

Ghoulish deep-sea fish found on SoCal beach in rare discovery

SeaWorld San Diego says it is the only place in the western hemisphere outside of Antarctica to see the Emperor penguins.

The newly hatched chick will be housed in SeaWorld San Diegos Penguin Encounter, which is home to a colony of 17 Emperor penguins and 300 other penguins.

Every decision regarding her well-being was made with the upmost care and consideration by our expert team and veterinary staff. We are looking forward to learning more about her and watching her unique personality develop as she continues to grow, Brackett said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Millions saw their energy bills fall in October after a drop in the price cap, which limits how much suppliers can charge households for each unit of gas and electricity they use.

A typical dual-fuel household now pays 1,923 a year between October and December - down from 2,074 in the previous period.

What is the energy price cap?

In recent years, the cost of variable tariff energy deals in England, Wales and Scotland has been controlled by the energy price cap, which is now set every three months by Ofgem, the energy regulator.

The cap confirms the maximum price suppliers can charge households per unit of energy on a standard - or default - tariff in normal circumstances. It covers 29 million households.

Energy prices soared after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, so in October ministers said household bills would be limited by a temporary government guarantee instead.

Energy price cap graphic

Under this, a typical household's annual gas and electricity bill stayed below 2,500 despite Ofgem's cap increasing above this level.

The Energy Price Guarantee finished in June 2023, and the Ofgem cap once again determines how much customers can be charged.

Between October and December, typical bills will be 1,923, which is 151 less than the previous cap and 577 down on last winter. The next quarterly price cap announcement will be in November and will cover January to March 2024.

Energy is regulated separately in Northern Ireland, where bills are slightly lower.

What is a typical household?

The calculations for a typical household are based on a direct debit customer using 12,000 kWh (kilowatt hours) of gas and 2,900 kWh of electricity a year.

A kilowatt hour is a unit of energy used to calculate your bill.

Energy bill chart

However, most households aren't typical.

Bills are based on how much energy you actually use, which depends on the number of people, the type of property and its energy efficiency.

What if I'm on on a prepayment meter?

In July 2023, Ofgem said "around 4 million" households had prepayment meters.

It reviewed their use after an investigation by The Times found debt agents acting for British Gas wrongly broke into vulnerable people's homes to fit meters.

Under new rules, suppliers must give customers more opportunity to clear their debts, contacting them at least 10 times before installing a meter, and they cannot be installed at all in certain households.

Woman tops up prepayment meter

The government has promised to bring prepayment energy charges in line with those for direct debit customers, but this has not yet happened.

Between October and December, the typical bill for prepayment households will be 1,949, down from 2,077, but still 26 more than for direct debit customers.

Typical bills for those who pay via cash, cheque or bank transfer, usually every three months, will be 129 more.

Will energy bills continue to go down?

It is is impossible to tell for certain, not least because wholesale energy prices are affected by global issues, such as the war in Ukraine.

Gas prices per therm (August 2023)

However, energy consultancy Cornwall Insight forecasts that prices will rise again in January 2024.

It estimates that typical annual bills will rise to 1,996.

The consultancy does not expect energy prices to return to pre-Covid levels before the end of the decade.

Will this mean the return of switching?

Lower prices should restart competition in the market, as suppliers start to offer fixed deals to customers, which set gas and electricity prices for a certain period of time.

Unlike variable tariffs, these are unaffected by the cap.

Consumer groups and regulators say this could be good for consumers, but warn that such deals do not suit all circumstances.

If variable deals continue to fall in price, anyone already locked into a fixed deal would miss out on those savings.

Those considering signing up for a fixed deal should also pay close attention to standing charges and exit fees, rather than just the headline rate.

Couple looking at bills

What extra support is available for energy bills?

Some groups across the UK who may struggle to pay bills are receiving additional help through cost-of-living payments:

900 to households on means-tested benefits - paid in three instalments in spring and autumn 2023 and spring 2024

300 for pensioner households

150 to people on certain disability benefits

Vulnerable families can also claim help through the Household Support Fund, and - from October 2023 - the Warm Home Discount scheme.

Importantly, the 400 discount which all households in England, Wales and Scotland received last winter has finished.

What help are businesses getting?

Until the end of March 2023, businesses had their costs limited under the government's Energy Bill Relief Scheme.

Under a new scheme running until March 2024, firms get a discount on wholesale prices, rather than costs being capped.

Heavy energy-using sectors, like glass, ceramics and steelmakers, will get a larger discount than others.
WASHINGTON (WDVM)  Police said Thursday that Christopher Haynes, a man accused of murder who escaped custody at George Washington University Hospital in September, was in custody.

In a news conference Thursday afternoon, the U.S. Marshals said that Haynes was taken into custody around 10:30 a.m. in Oxon Hill, Maryland, more than six weeks after he first escaped.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Two weeks on the run, police still searching for escaped DC homicide suspect Christopher Haynes

Haynes escaped custody on Sept. 6 while he was being treated for an ankle injury. Police said that an officer was changing Haynes handcuffs when he assaulted the officer and ran away.

Haynes had previously been taken into custody by the Metropolitan Police Department in Manassas, Virginia, on a warrant out of the District of Columbia for the killing of Brent Hayward, 33, on Aug. 12.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Mother fearful after sons accused murderer escapes DC police custody

During Thursdays news conference, police said that Haynes will be facing his original murder charge as well as an additional charge for escape.

Officials could not comment on whether or not anyone else helped Haynes or would be facing any charges. The U.S. Marshals did say that he was taking actions to conceal his location.

Any escape is troubling because we arrest them for a reason, U.S. Marshal for the United States Marshals Service for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia Robert Dixon said during the update.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Rockets are fired toward Israel from the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, earlier this week. (Ariel Schalit / Associated Press)

A Palestinian laborer awoke at 4 a.m. He stepped past his wife and sleeping children and joined thousands of other men hurrying on foot through the streets of Gaza to an Israeli border checkpoint. They moved like a desperate parade  carrying lunch bags and borrowed tools  into the glare of searchlights, guard dogs and barricades.

Adnan Masri was herded through a barbed wire maze on that morning in 1997. An Israeli soldier called him over and patted him down. Masri cleared the checkpoint and hopped a ride north to construction sites near Tel Aviv where another indignity awaited: Palestinians had been replaced on many jobs by immigrants from other countries. The laborer cursed and pleaded. But with tears in his eyes, Masri, trailing other angry men who shared his fate, surrendered himself again to the checkpoint, returning home humiliated and unable to feed his children.

Residents examine the aftermath of an Israeli airstrike on the Al Ansar Mosque, where two Palestinians were killed, in the Jenin refugee camp in the occupied West Bank, on Oct. 22. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

A few months later, two suicide bombers blew themselves up at a Jerusalem market, killing 16 people and wounding more than 175. It was another attack carried out by the Palestinian militants of Hamas. The images were indelible: walking wounded, canvas stretchers, blood pooling around an 8-year-old boy. A whirl of smoke. One Jewish man shouted: Peace is dead. We want a war with all the Arab nations.

Read more: For Californians whose relatives were kidnapped in Israel, the uncertainty is an unimaginable nightmare

A team of volunteers arrived with the tiny instruments of their trade and collected body parts for burial in accordance with Jewish custom. Blood was hosed from the market floor. Vegetable and fruit stands reopened. The fish was back on ice. Shoppers returned with shekels and defiance.

Those two scenes were my early glimpses of covering Israel and the Palestinian territories as a foreign correspondent.

A burnt Kiddush cup lies on its side in a house damaged by Hamas militants in Kibbutz Be'eri, Israel. (Ariel Schalit / Associated Press)

The country is a book of startling images, where sympathies, anger, faith and vengeance veer and collide at disorienting speed. It is a desert of grief and hate and unreconciled promises that tug mind and spirit in countless directions. Aggressor. Victim. Terrorist. Settler. In the predawn chill, the laborer curses his degradation; in the twilight, the bodies of Israelis are given to the earth. Ancestors and histories are summoned but nothing has brought resolution to a conflict that again threatens to ignite the Middle East.

It had seemed for a time more than two decades ago that the peace process had a slim chance despite violations on both sides. Israeli and Palestinian officials huddled with European and U.S. envoys in the backrooms and courtyard at the American Colony Hotel. The sense of possibility was not so tattered, but since then the world has grown inured to the land's broken vows, withering violence and failed peace.

Read more: How the Israel-Hamas war is dividing Hollywood

There are few illusions now. The fresh graves, obliterated buildings, wailing mothers, bereft fathers, kidnapped hostages, furious rabbis and imams, and faces darkened by ash and anguish are redefining a struggle in a moment that appears scarier and more forbidding than the ones that came before.

The central characters and their trajectories are the same as they were in 1997. Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007, and many Palestinians came to regard it as a more resolute defender than the Palestinian Authority, which was criticized for giving Israel too many concessions for little return. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been in and out of office for decades. His expansion of Jewish settlements  condemned by many nations as a violation of international law  has increased enmity and given anyone living in Gaza or the West Bank little hope for a two-state solution.

A woman with a photo of a child who was abducted during the Hamas attack on Israel hands out yellow ribbons to passing drivers in central Tel Aviv. (Francisco Seco / Associated Press)

The savagery of the Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, killing more than 1,400 people, including children and grandparents, was the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, according to Israeli officials. The slaughter included the gunning down of an estimated 260 people at a music festival. Israels relentless and brutal bombardment of Gaza and the threat that 300,000 Israeli troops are ready to invade the coastal strip of 2 million people have caused worldwide alarm.

The Gaza Health Ministry run by Hamas says 6,500 people, many of them children, have been killed as families carry corpses through shattered streets. Israel has cut off electricity and water and displaced about 1million Palestinian residents in a humanitarian crisis that threatens to kill thousands more civilians on blockaded land that rights organizations have called an open-air prison.

The unfolding horror was put in perspective this week: The grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas," United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the U.N. Security Council. "And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

Mourners carry the bodies of Palestinians killed in an Israeli assault on the Nour Shams refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

But that has become the narrative. The war is shocking but not surprising even as the circumstances and venom that led to it played out while much of the world was attuned to other dangers: global terrorism, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the Arab Spring, Russias invasion of Ukraine, and rising animosities between Iran and Gulf Arab states that led to Bahrain and the Emirates opening diplomatic relations with Israel. Many Palestinians felt ignored and abandoned  especially when normalization talks began between Israel and Saudi Arabia  amid a shifting global order.

Read more: Palestinian Americans struggle with Hamas-Israel violence

The fighting between Hamas and Israel threatens to draw in other states, including Syria and Lebanon, where the Iranian-backed Hezbollah is much better armed than Hamas. Exchanges of rockets and artillery fire in the north between Israeli troops and Hezbollah militants could flare into war as it did in 2006. That would leave Israel fighting in its north and south.

The hostilities threaten to upset neighboring Egypt and Jordan at a time tens of thousands of Arabs are putting pressure on their governments by marching in the streets on behalf of Palestinians. The fighting raises the possibility of drawing in proxy powers like the U.S. and Iran that could  like Americas invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan after 9/11  upend the region for years. President Biden sensed this on his visit to Israel last week when he mourned with Jews, but also warned: While you feel that rage, dont be consumed by it.

An Israeli soldier inspects a house damaged by Hamas militants in Kibbutz Kfar Azza, Israel, on Oct. 18. (Ariel Schalit / Associated Press)

But this is a land of consuming impulses fueled by long-held grievances. As in the past, diplomats are scurrying, human rights groups are cataloging atrocities on both sides, and suffering is spreading. Israel has been shaken by a breakdown in its once vaunted security, unifying liberals and hard-right religious conservatives in calling for vicious reprisals against Hamas. Israels internal politics, including leftists who support a Palestinian state to end years of bloodshed, are playing out against an Arab world whose young population is looking to rally for a cause of dignity after the betrayals and failed uprisings of the Arab Spring in 2011.

Israelis and Palestinians are again center stage and the question has been the same since Israels war for independence in 1948. Israel demands security in a region where Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran and other forces want it erased from the map. The Palestinians demand freedom from oppression and poverty that will lead to their own country. Many Palestinians do not support Hamas. But they criticize Washingtons unqualified support of Israel and the fact that years of failed negotiations and Israeli intransigence have not delivered them a homeland.

But without negotiation and compromise, Netanyahus government of religious conservatives and ultra-nationalists and Hamas terror attacks and fanaticism will blunt any hope of resolution. Netanyahus game plan of dividing the Palestinians  diminishing the stature of the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and allowing Hamas to govern Gaza with the help of Qatari money  has been undone. Israels massive intelligence failure to foresee Hamas onslaught on Oct. 7 has spiraled into an unpredictable war.

An [Israeli] ground invasion, or worse, a return to direct occupation of Gaza, will result in untold suffering that will further catalyze anti-Israeli sentiment in Palestine and beyond, according to Sharan Grewal, an analyst with the Center for Middle East Policy at Brookings Institution. Even if Hamas is somehow destroyed, this sentiment guarantees that another group will take its place.

Palestinian citizens inspect damage to their homes caused by Israeli airstrikes on Oct. 10 in Gaza City, Gaza. (Ahmad Hasaballah / Getty Images)

Maoz Inon, whose parents were reportedly killed in the Hamas attack, recently told the BBC: We must stop the war. War is not the answer, he said. In our family we are not seeking revenge. Revenge will just lead to more suffering and to more casualties. He added: Im afraid for the soldiers, and for the civilians on both sides in Gaza and in Israel that will pay [with] their lives.

But the country and the territories are seething and for many it seems an endless, cruel loop.

Read more: Muslim parents say LAUSD pro-Israel statement made their kids targets

On that morning in 1997, the Palestinian laborer wandered home jobless. He spoke of the intifadas and violence that led to Israeli border closings that at times trapped him and other workers in Gaza as immigrants were given their jobs: Before the uprisings and the border closures, I was considered a human being, he said. I think both sides respected one another then. But not today. Today there is only humiliation.

Months later, the bombs exploded in the Jerusalem market. Fruit and vegetable stalls were blown apart; the clothes of the living and the dead were tattered by shrapnel. The fallen were carried away and a man tried to describe what happened: I was inside the shop when the first explosion took place. The second one was just a second later. Anybody who was between two walls was saved; anybody who poked his head out was killed.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
On Thursday, after weeks spent in clownish limbo, House Republicans finally banded together and unanimously elected a speaker. Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, is soft-spoken and generally well liked within his conferencea rarity, apparently, given that the partys four previous nominees for the position all had enough enemies to make their ascent to party leadership impossible. Johnson is vehemently opposed to abortion and same-sex marriage, but he is perhaps best known as the legal architect of Donald Trumps effort to overturn the 2020 election. Less than 24 hours before Johnson won the gavel, Republicans rejected another nomineeTom Emmer, their fourthin part because he voted to certify that election.

How did we get here? The simplest explanation is that the GOPs slim majority in the House empowers like-minded representatives to vote in blocs: Since it only takes a handful of opposition votes to sink a candidacy, banding together to take down a rival or ideological opponent is easy to do.



Kevin McCarthy , who served as speaker from January until early October, was deposed partly for working with Democrats on government funding deals and partly because Matt Gaetz hated him. Jim Jordans nomination failed for a multitude of reasons: Some disliked the way his allies adopted a strategy that involved sending death threats to his critics; a bloc of vulnerable Republicans feared that his brass-knuckles approach to politics would hurt their reelection chances; while others shivved the Ohioian out of revenge for the role he played in sinking both McCarthys and the partys first choice to succeed him, Steve Scalise. Johnson prevailed in large part because he has few personal enemies within his caucus and because Republicans were understandably sick of the chaos.



Still, the ascensionby unanimous voteof a far-right election denier to the speakership is notable in that it shows the extent to which the Republican Party is still marching in line with Trumps baton. Johnsons Big Lie legal theories, which involved questioning the constitutionality of Covid-inspired changes to voting laws, were one of the prominent planks upon which Trump and his allies attempted to overturn a lawful election. Johnsons role in this regard was not seen as disqualifying by any of Johnsons colleagues. Its worth noting that should Johnson remain in his postand Republicans hold onto their majority in the House in the 2024 electionhe will be tasked with certifying the results of that election.



How we got here in a broader sense is the subject of a Tuesday New York Times op-ed by Rich Lowry , who is also the editor of the once anti-Trump, currently anti-anti-Trump National Review. In that piece, Lowry makes several reasonable points that are difficult to contest: Right-wing media boosts unserious candidates who make wild overpromises to the partys base; that base demonizes institutionalists and deifies bomb-throwers; the anti-establishment leanings of these firebrands have been an increasingly important part of the ascendant right; all of which has been fed by the rise of social media and the broader decline of the political party more generally.



To put it more succinctly: Among Republicans today, stoking outrage is good, blowing things up is useful, and it never pays to get caught doing the responsible thing. Kevin McCarthy will pay a price for funding the government, but Matt Gaetz will never face any accountability for sending that government into full-blown chaos over a personal beef. All in all, thats a fairly clear-eyed take on the predicament the Republican Party finds itself in now.

Unfortunately, Lowry has axes of his own to grind that sidetrack his analysis, namely a popular hobbyhorse among the conservative commentariat that posits another theory for the rise of Trump and the far right: that none of this would have happened if Democrats had been nicer to Mitt Romney in 2012:



On top of this, the two losses to Barack Obama, especially the second one, in 2012, convinced many Republican voters that their party was feckless and naive. Mitt Romney was serious, civic-minded and conscientious, and he got absolutely bulldozed by the Obama campaign, which portrayed him as some kind of monster. The thinking of a lot of Republicans after that was, basically, If you portray all our candidates as crude, unethical partisan haters, well, maybe we should give you one.

Much has been written about this pet theory suggesting that the slings and arrows that Mitt Romney suffered at the hands of those whoand I cant stress this enoughwere in a presidential race against him, led to the rise of Trump. Writing in Vox in 2020, Zach Beauchamp found that many conservatives have embraced the idea that Democrats smeared the kind and decent Romney so brutally  that Republicans became inured to this kind of argument and convinced there was no advantage to playing nice anymore. Call it the look what you made me do theory of How We Got Trump.



The Obama campaign did go after Romney, of course, which is what everyone involved should have anticipated when they ended up in a presidential campaign against each other. The Obama campaign effectively painted Romney as an out-of-touch plutocrat who enjoyed ridiculous rich-person pastimes (dressage) and whose only experience with working people was when, as a partner at the private equity firm Bain Capital, he would insist that companies fire them.



Was that portrayal of Romney harsh? Sure, why not? But effective political messaging is about creating metaphors, and Democrats were effective at using Romneys wealth and experience as a way of defining him as someone who truly favored the interests of the rich and who had, in fact, spent years raking in cash working for an industry that decimated the working class. Romney had one effective argument against thisthat he proposed a popular, bipartisan health care bill as the governor of Massachusettsan accomplishment that may have leveled him up into the running-for-president stratosphere but became toxic among conservatives after his template was adapted by liberals to construct what became Obamacare.



In any case, the Romney martyr campaign overlooks a few things. One is that Republicans took scorched-earth campaign tactics to vulgar new heights eight years earlier, when they depicted John Kerry both as an out-of-touch toff who enjoyed ridiculous rich person pastimes (windsurfing) and as a conniving, cowardly figure who lied about his war record in an effort to smear real veterans and undermine the Vietnam Warthis latter effort mounted by a gang of actual liars known as the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth. The Democrats did not respond by turning to the same sort of rank demagoguery in the next election, but the GOP topped its own efforts by insisting that Barack Obama was a radical Marxist-cum-Islamic extremist who was so un-American he was literally from Kenya. When John McCain lost to Barack Obama in that election, the conclusion many in the party tookincluding Donald Trumpwas that it hadnt gone far enough in smearing the countrys first Black president.



But the Romney-as-martyr myth is also dependent on ignoring the other, shrewder parts of Lowrys analysis. Romneys loss was blamed by many not on Democratic smears but on the Republicans establishment credentials and moderate approach to politics. Romney was too stiff, too much of a politician, too burdened by years of compromise. Donald Trump was the anti-Romney in many ways: gruff, unpredictable, and above all, a pugilist. Romney, as governor of Massachusettsand later as a senatorwas a principled conservative who nevertheless understood the necessity of political compromise. This is anathema to the current Republican Party. To win elections, many now believed, Republicans had to abandon not only compromise but governance itself.

The idea of the Romney martyrdom myth is appealing because it absolves Republicans of responsibility for the radical streak the party has cultivated and encouraged for years. Many simply believed that this venal side to their politics could be controlled and suppressed in the service of other political priorities. They were wrong about that, and so they look for comfort in the notion that they didnt so much fall as they were pushed to this lowly state by Democrats. If Democrats had only been nicer to Romneymaybe just let him win!none of this would have happened. But Democrats arent responsible for ensuring that Mitt Romney glides into the Oval Office at the expense of their own nominee, just as they have no responsibility, as The Washington Post editorial board argued earlier this week, to help elect a Republican speaker. The job of Democrats is to win elections and enact Democratic policies.



Democrats prone to self-reflection might consider whether they treated Trump too casually as a presidential candidate; that he ended up in the White House, at some point, comes down to significant inadequacies in the way Democrats campaigned against him. But this is grist for a different mill. That Trump seamlessly slid into the role of Republican Party standard-bearer is not something over which Democrats ever had control. The idea that they could have prevented Republicans from embracing a candidate who succeeded precisely because he was the ne plus ultra of a Republican standard-bearer is ahistorical and absurd. Establishment Republicans had many opportunities to try to quiet their bases most ravenous instincts and didnt. There were numerous occasions when they could have broken with Trump. They didnt; now theyre paying the price.


The European Union is falling behind its plan to provide Ukraine with one million artillery shells by March 2024.

Source: Bloomberg with reference to sources familiar with the matter, as reported by European Pravda

Details: As stated in the plans approved earlier this year, the EU promised to provide Ukraine with artillery ammunition within 12 months. Initially, from existing stockpiles, and then through joint procurement contracts and increased industrial capacity.

Sources and documents reviewed by Bloomberg indicated that this initiative has so far provided about 30% of the planned amount. Based on the volume of contracts signed to date, it is at risk of not reaching its target.

Several EU member states have privately asked the EU's foreign policy department to extend the deadline for the contracts.

The United States, which is seeking to increase its own production to about 1 million projectiles a year in 2024, has called on the EU to step up its efforts, the sources said. White House officials have declined to comment.

With Ukraine's counteroffensive making limited progress and its allies preparing for a prolonged war, the ammunition supplies promised by the EU are critical to helping Ukraine keep up with Russian production.

Some estimates have shown that Russian factories will deliver 2 million shells next year, while Moscow has also received supplies from North Korea and continues to purchase Soviet-era shells.

EU member states have been reluctant to provide specific data on what they have provided or the contracts they have signed.

Some countries, however, have shared figures privately. Around a dozen countries, including the Baltic states, Germany, the Netherlands and Poland, have supplied or are planning to supply between 300,000 and 400,000 rounds of ammunition, mostly under the EU initiative.

Finland, Sweden, Denmark and Norway, the latter not being an EU member state, have placed orders worth 52 million, with production to begin next year.

One source said that the price of ammunition has risen since the initiative was launched, meaning that the current budget may not be sufficient to meet its goals.

These figures do not include all shipments made since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion, and some countries may have sourced ammunition from outside the EU or not disclosed their shipments.

Some EU member states also have their own procurement programmes and are seeking to strengthen their industrial capabilities, much like Ukraine.

Meanwhile, NATO is pushing its member states to overcome protectionist tendencies and agree on a single standard for artillery ammunition to increase production.

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A man carries an injured girl after an Israeli strike on the Rafah refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Israel's retaliatory bombardment of Gaza has killed over 6,500 people (SAID KHATIB)

EU leaders will on Thursday debate calling for a "humanitarian pause" in Israel's war with Hamas, as the bloc grapples with another conflict on its fringes alongside Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The European Union has struggled for both unity and influence in the face of the crisis that has engulfed the Middle East since Hamas launched its surprise attack on Israel on October 7.

The surge in bloodshed has stretched Europe's attention at a time of rising doubts about the West's ability to keep supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

There has been strong condemnation of the Hamas attack that Israel says killed at least 1,400 people and resulted in more than 200 being taken hostage.

But there has been less consensus on urging any halt to Israel's retaliatory bombardment of Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says has killed over 6,500 people.

After days of negotiations, a draft statement for the summit calls "for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including a humanitarian pause".

That statement -- which could change when leaders meet in Brussels -- falls short of demands from the United Nations for a "ceasefire".

Germany, wary of urging a more definitive halt that could tie Israel's hands, has mooted calls for humanitarian "windows" or "pauses" in the plural.

"Letters, commas, language matter, and that's how you find agreements," said a senior EU official.

But diplomats from some EU nations warn that delays over finding the right words as the death toll mounts are hitting the bloc's global standing and leaving it flailing in the face of developments.

- Ukraine overshadowed? -

The eruption of violence in the Middle East has sparked fears the West could get distracted from Russia's war on Ukraine 20 months into the invasion.

The fresh crisis comes at a moment when turmoil in the US Congress has already raised questions about the sustainability of Washington's military aid.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz vowed Tuesday that "support will in no way be impacted by the fact that we of course since the horrible morning hours of October 7 have focused on Israel and the Middle East".

Chief among EU measures meant to reassure Kyiv is a plan -- earlier estimated at 20 billion euros ($21 billion) over four years -- for a defence fund for Ukraine as part of broader Western security commitments.

Diplomats say progress has been held up by Hungary, Russia's closest ally in the bloc, and leaders are set to task the bloc's foreign policy chief to report back on the issue in December.

There will also be calls to impose new sanctions on Moscow that could include banning Russian diamond imports once the G7 agrees on a way of tracing them.

In addition, a plan for using the revenues from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine will be discussed.

Looming over the discussion on Ukraine will be the country's next steps in its push to join the EU.

The bloc's executive arm is to give an assessment on November 8 on whether to open formal accession talks with Kyiv.

Then it will be up to EU leaders to decide whether to adopt any recommendations by the end of the year.

del/rmb/pvh/leg
The 27 countries will discuss the possibility of issuing a joint call for a "humanitarian pause" to allow more emergency aid into the Gaza Strip, where the situation is turning increasingly dire after more than two weeks of repeated Israeli strikes in retaliation for the deadly attacks launched by Hamas in early October.

Over 50 trucks carrying assistance have been allowed entry to Gaza through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt since Saturday, a pace that the EU, the US and the UN consider insufficient. The lack of fuel for generators that can power hospitals, bakeries and other essential services including desalination plants for water has become the focus of particular concern.

"The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including a humanitarian pause," read the latest version of the draft summit's conclusions, seen by Euronews.

"The European Council condemns in the strongest terms all violence and hostilities against civilians."

According to the Hamas-run Gazan Health Ministry, about 6,500 Palestinians have been killed since the start of the war, including at least 2,000 children. Israeli authorities say over 1,400 of its citizens were killed by Hamas, with over 200 still held hostage in Gaza.

As the death toll mounts, EU leaders hope the "humanitarian pause" could help accelerate the flow of emergency aid, such as food, water, medical care and fuel, into the densely-populated, economically-deprived enclave.

Ahead of Thursday's meeting, diplomats discussed alternative wordings, like a "humanitarian window" and a "humanitarian ceasefire." But the term "ceasefire" was considered too drastic by some countries, like Germany and Austria.

"We need to find a middle way between those leaning towards an outright humanitarian ceasefire, which is a general stop of the fighting, and those who think Israel is still entitled to defend itself against attacks from Hamas and that is too soon to speak about a ceasefire," said a senior EU diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"So a pause can be envisaged as a series of interruptions that can allow humanitarian aid inside Gaza," the diplomat added. "It's a bit semantic."

Last-minute talks centred on whether to call for a "pause" or "pauses," as the singular could be read as a one-off thing while the plural is interpreted as open-ended.

"For us, the difference doesn't really matter because the intention is quite clear" in both cases, said a senior diplomat from a different member state.

However, a third diplomat said their country would advocate for the plural version because multiple deliveries of humanitarian aid to Gaza would be "needed."

Regardless of the final form the text adopts, the joint call from Brussels has little to no chance of succeeding on the ground, as neither Israel nor Hamas are likely to heed the words. Still, the appeal could help the bloc buttress its joint position on the raging war following criticism earlier this month about its mixed and uncoordinated messages.

The debate on Thursday will be fed by the insights of the leaders that have recently travelled to the region, including French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, as well as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, whose trip to Israel on 13 October became the subject of intense media scrutiny.

"In its legitimate efforts to fight Hamas terrorists, Israel must seek to protect civilian lives and respect international humanitarian law," von der Leyen said on Monday after holding a phone call with Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian National Authority, the political entity that controls parts of the West Bank.

According to the draft conclusions, heads of state and government will urge Hamas to "immediately release all hostages without any preconditions" and warn regional actors against fuelling an "escalation" of violence, a thinly-veiled reference to the possible involvement of Hezbollah and Iran in the war.

Leaders will also express their readiness to revive the peace process towards a two-state solution, which is seen as a far-off goal by both Israelis and Palestinians.

During Thursday's talks, the European Council will try to dispel any doubts that support for Ukraine in the face of Russia's aggression has faded to the background amid the renewed attention to the Middle East.

The draft conclusions feature a total of 14 paragraphs devoted to Ukraine on various aspects such as security commitments, critical infrastructure, the prosecution of war crimes and the use of immobilised Russian assets to pay for the reconstruction, a thorny question that remains stuck in the theoretical realm.

"It's an important political message that we haven't lost sight" of Ukraine, said the first diplomat quoted in this article. "We want to reassure our Ukrainian partners and other partners around the world that we keep Ukraine very high on the agenda."

Besides the two wars, EU leaders will debate migration management, the state of the economy, competitiveness and the proposed review of the bloc's common budget.
Following a summit in Brussels, leaders of European Union states issued a cautious statement concerning the escalation in the Middle East, calling for "humanitarian pauses" and reaffirming Israels right to defend itself.

Source: statement shared by Ecaterina Casinge, spokeswoman for the European Council, as reported by European Pravda

Details: EU leaders reiterated their condemnation of Hamas for its terrorist attacks on civilians, called on Hamas to release all hostages, and "strongly" emphasised "Israels right to defend itself in line with international law and international humanitarian law".

The European Council also called for "continued, rapid, safe and unhindered" humanitarian access and aid "to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs".

The European Union supported the two-state solution and the "holding of an international peace conference" proposed by Spain "soon".

The statement issued by EU leaders also touched on the need to fight dissemination of disinformation and illegal content, stressing the legal responsibility of social media platforms in this context.

Background:

The EU member states hold different views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which prevents them from speaking unanimously.

Some have reservations about the call for a "humanitarian pause" and argue that it could be seen as a restriction of Israels right to defend itself. Germany, Austria, Hungary and Czechia have taken a firm stand in support of Israel. Spain and Ireland are more supportive of the Palestinian side.

The European Commission said yesterday that the European Union does not support a ceasefire in the Middle East, as Hamas continues to launch rocket attacks on Israel.

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The European Union has made Namibia a key part of a major infrastructure development plan it is rolling out to rival Chinas Belt and Road Initiative.

The southern African country has agreed a partnership with the bloc to develop its renewable hydrogen capacity, backed by 1 billion euros ($1 billion) in EU investments. The deal is part of the EUs Global Gateway initiative, a plan to mobilize 300 billion euros ($322 billion) in public and private investments to develop projects focused on green energy, transport infrastructure and digital economies in various parts of the world.

The agreement was announced yesterday at an EU summit in Brussels to launch the blocs global infrastructure initiative that was attended by government officials, financial institutions, policymakers and business leaders.

The partnership with Namibia includes plans to develop the Walvis Bay port, the entry point from the Atlantic side to the Walvis Bay  Maputo Corridor. Jutta Urpilainen , European commissioner for international partnerships, held talks with Namibian President Hage Geingob at the first ever EU-Namibia Business Forum, which was held in Brussels this week. She told Semafor Africa about the partnership.

Know More

Semafor: Why is revitalizing Namibias port infrastructure considered so important?

Jutta Urpilainen: A thriving green hydrogen and critical raw materials industry requires good transport connectivity. Upgrading the ports of Walvis Bay and Luderitz and developing the wider Maputo-Gaborone-Walvis Bay Strategic Corridor will be important for the future of these value chains.

Namibia has ambitions to make the port of Walvis Bay into a logistics hub for the Southern Africa Development Community. The port could also facilitate trade and mobility beyond the region, inter-Africa, and between Africa and Europe, further advancing economic Integration.

The EU just signed a contract with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International to support this transformation of the Walvis Bay port.

How many jobs are expected to be created?

JU: The development of green hydrogen and downstream industries has potential to create thousands of jobs in the coming years. Namibia alone has a pipeline of projects of around 21 billion euros ($22.2 billion) to be developed by 2030.

Likewise, the development of a critical raw materials (lithium, rare earth minerals, graphite, cobalt) production and beneficiation industry has potential to generate a significant number of jobs in the coming years.

How could these partnerships benefit countries in the wider region?

JU: Namibia is a frontrunner in the region in the area of green hydrogen. The successful development of a green hydrogen industry in Namibia is poised to create spill-over effects for the region along the entire value chain from the creation of downstream industries  for example on e-fuels and e-steel  to excess clean electricity to be sold to the regional electricity market via the Southern Africa Power Pool.
Workers sort aid to be distributed to Palestinians, at a United Nations-run facility, in Khan Younis

BRUSSELS (Reuters) - European Union leaders agreed at a summit on Thursday to call for the establishment of "humanitarian corridors and pauses" to get urgently needed aid into Gaza.

In a declaration at the summit in Brussels, the leaders of the Union's 27 nations expressed the "gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza".

They called for "continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs."

The summit was the leaders' first in-person meeting since the deadly Oct. 7 assault on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas, which prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

In their declaration, the leaders reiterated their previous condemnation "in the strongest possible terms" of the Hamas attack and emphasised Israel's right to defend itself "in line with international law and international humanitarian law".

They also repeated a call for Hamas to immediately release all hostages "without any precondition".

"The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations," the declaration also said.

(Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska and Andrew Gray; editing by Diane Craft and Jonathan Oatis)
In this photo provided by the Serbian Presidential Press Service, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, third right, welcomes Italian diplomat Alessandro Cattaneo, left, French President's Advisor Emmanuel Bonne, second left, European Union envoy Miroslav Lajcak, third left, US Deputy Assistant Secretary Gabriel Escobar, second right, and German Chancellor's Advisor Jens Plettner, right, in Belgrade, Serbia, Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023. The envoys of the European Union and the United States urged on Saturday Kosovo and Serbia to resume dialogue as the only way to de-escalate the soaring tension between the two nations. This is the first such visit since Sept. 24 when around 30 Serb gunmen crossed into northern Kosovo, killing a police officer and setting up barricades, before launching an hours-long gun battle with Kosovo police. (Serbian Presidential Press Service via AP)

BRUSSELS (AP)  The leaders of Serbia and Kosovo have refused to compromise at a fresh round of meetings meant to improve their bitter relations and they continue to jeopardize their chances of joining the European Union, the blocs top diplomat said Thursday.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell , who has been supervising the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue process, said that negotiators had presented a serious and balanced proposal to overcome one of the main hurdles to putting their plan on normalizing ties into action.

Unhappily, the parties were not ready to agree on that without preconditions, Borrell said, and each sides preconditions were unacceptable (to) the other party.

He insisted that respecting their pledges in the dialogue is the only way for them to advance onto the European path toward membership. Both countries have said they want to join the 27-nation bloc.

Despite the leaders of France, Germany and Italy weighing in, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic began trading blame for the lack of progress immediately after the talks in Brussels, much as they have done for months.

Thursdays talks were chiefly aimed at putting into action an agreement that Vucic and Kurti reached in February, although the two have since raised issues with it. The idea was to work on new proposals and ideas floated in exploratory talks last weekend.

But Vucic and Kurti deeply distrust each other, and they are proving difficult for the EU to deal with.

Kurti said that during the meetings, Vucic had refused to sign their February agreement as well as an action plan for making that deal work.

Acceptance entails a signature; only a signature entails acceptance and guarantees implementation, Kurti said in a statement.

Vucic dismissed that claim as tricks, saying there was no question of signing or not signing.

Someone is playing games to shift the blame on the other side, he said.

The meetings in Brussels took place on the sidelines of an EU summit. Fears are high of a resumption of the violence that has marked their relations since Kosovo unilaterally broke away from Serbia in 2008. Belgrade still considers Kosovo a Serbian province and has never recognized its independence.

Vucic insisted Thursday "that Serbia cant accept membership in the U.N. or independence for Kosovo.

The new European effort to breathe life into the talks came after a major gun battle on Sept. 24, when about 30 Serb gunmen crossed into northern Kosovo, killed a police officer and set up barricades. Three gunmen were killed in the shootout with Kosovo police.

Kurti said that those who carried out the attack, notably their leader Milan Radoicic, had fled back into Serbia and should be extradited to Kosovo for trial. He said the trial would be fair because the EUs rule of law mission in Kosovo could monitor it.

Radoicic was briefly detained, questioned and released in Serbia earlier this month.

The big problem is that neither Vucic nor Kurti wants to be the first to make concessions without guarantees that the other will reciprocate.

The EU and U.S. are pressing Kosovo to allow the creation of an Association of the Serb-Majority Municipalities to coordinate work on education, health care, land planning and economic development in communities of northern Kosovo mostly populated by ethnic Serbs.

Kurti fears such an association would be a step toward creating a Serb mini-state with wide autonomy.

The Europeans offered a proposal to get around this, which Borrell said would be a great leap forward in the normalization process and help to avoid new spirals of violence if they seized it.

Vucic blamed Kurti for refusing to take up the offer, saying "it is completely clear who does not want to form the Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities.

The last thing the Europeans want is more conflict in their backyard. The war between Serbia and Kosovo in 1998-99 left more than 10,000 people dead, mostly Kosovo Albanians.

Even with both countries' membership hopes in doubt over the deadlock, Kurti said that Kosovo deserves to be officially granted candidate status for joining the EU due to its democratic and economic progress.

___

Jovana Gec in Belgrade and Llazar Semini in Tirana contributed to this report.
Fans had a photo opportunity in a Eurovision heart sculpture near the venue

More than 300,000 people attended Eurovision-related events in Liverpool in May, giving the local economy a 55m boost, the council has said.

Fans flocked to the city when it hosted the annual song contest plus a festival of other concerts and cultural events.

In total, 306,000 people visited the city centre for Eurovision events, according to research commissioned by Liverpool City Council.

They spent 54.8m in places like bars, hotels, restaurants and shops, it said.

The figures were well above the council's predictions of 100,000 visitors and a 25m economic boost this year.

It had said, before the event, that its outlay on Eurovision-related costs would be 2m, with another 2m coming from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

The Beatles statues in the fan village were given Ukrainian flags and Eurovision scarves

Liverpool was chosen as the location for the two semi-finals and grand final after the UK stepped in to host the contest on behalf of 2022 winners Ukraine.

The three televised shows were staged by the BBC and reached a global TV audience of 162 million.

The city also hosted a fan village with daily performances on the waterfront, a two-week cultural festival, and other related events.

The council's research also said:

Eurovision events had total attendances of 473,000, with some people going to more than one event

The visitors included 31,000 from outside the UK, with fans from 49 countries at the main live shows

42% of overseas visitors said it had a positive impact on how they viewed the UK, with 51% unchanged and 5% saying they don't know

175,000 city-centre hotel rooms were sold in May - the best month since 2018

There were 250,000 visitors to the fan village over 10 days

An audience of 326,000 saw 24 events in the two-week cultural festival

The education and community programmes directly engaged with 50,000 people

96% of visitors said they would recommend Liverpool as a destination to visit

Council leader Liam Robinson said the figures "speak for themselves".

He said: "Jobs were created, local businesses were on the receiving end of a much-needed boost and hundreds of thousands of people came to the city, had a great time and are more than likely to return again."

Jean Philip De Tender from the European Broadcasting Union told the BBC that, out of the host cities that have published economic data, Liverpool is the most successful yet.

"If you embrace it well, which is what Liverpool has done, then you can really reap the benefits out of it," he said.

Other related events included a televised concert outside St George's Hall

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram added that the city had given fans, whether watching in person or on TV, "a Eurovision they will never forget" and that it was "a vital shot in the arm for our local economy".

Culture Minister Stuart Andrew said: "This research demonstrates the positive impact of hosting major events and I hope that we can continue to build on this success."

Phil Harrold, BBC chief of staff and chair of the 2023 city selection group, said they knew Liverpool would deliver "with a passion and enthusiasm that was second to none".

He added: "The incredible numbers proven in this research, coupled with our own record-breaking audience figures, demonstrate that 2023 was indeed the most successful Eurovision ever and is testament to all who played a part in bringing this year's song contest to life."

Liverpool was the first UK city to host Eurovision for 25 years, with the main shows held at the M&S Bank Arena.

The final was won by Loreen, from Sweden, with the victorious country choosing Malmo to host next year's contest.
Warning: This story contains spoilers for "The Fall of the House of Usher."

Michael Flanagans chilling new series The Fall of the House of Usher is an homage to Edgar Allan Poe , from the reference in the title and on.

A poet at first, Poe began publishing short horror stories in the early 1830s, with standouts like The Tell-Tale Heart, Masque of the Red Death, The Black Cat, The Pit and the Pendulum, The Gold-Bug and The Murders in the Rue Morgue.

The Flanagan show mines Poe's canon, from deep cuts to English curricula staples, to inform plot points, character names, episode titles and more.

Read on for the Edgar Allan Poe Easter eggs you might have missed in The Fall of the House of Usher.

What is Poes The Fall of the House of Usher about?

Poe's story The Fall of the House of Usher provides the TV show with its narrative structure.

In both, a sick Roderick Usher tells his story to another person. Flanagan recasts Poe's unnamed narrator as investigator Auguste Auggie Dupin. From there, the narrator comes to learn about the Usher family's secrets and Roderick's relationship with his twin sister Madeline.

The dark, dull house that winds up at the center of the miniseries immediately resembles that of the one Poe describes in his story. As to how the Ushers came to live in that home? Though Poe keeps it vague, Flanagan provides backstory (lots).

The major resemblance to the short story doesn't truly become clear until the end of the show, however.

In Poe's work, Roderick's twin sister Madeline has an unexplained disease that causes her limbs to stop working. Roderick buries his sister under the home  without the help of the narrator.

The show has a twist. Madeline's limbs stop working because Roderick poisons her drink, then buries her (and replaces her eyes with blue gemstones, modeled after an Egyptian royal burial tradition).

Just as Roderick and his guest realize Madeline was buried alive, she bursts in to the room. Madeline kills her brother with her last breath in both works  through strangulation on the television show and through fear in Poe's story.

Similar to Poe's work, Auggie runs out into the street as the House of Usher finally collapses.

Poe references in each episode

A Midnight Dreary

The first and last episodes titles refer to one of Poes most famous literary works, The Raven.

Roderick and Madelines mother, Eliza, shares the same name as Poes biological mother and the middle name of his cousin, Virginia Eliza Clemm Poe , who he married.

Elizas cruel boss, Mr. Longfellow, was likely named after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a poet whom Poe showed overt disdain and, at one point, accused of plagiarism.

In the opening episode, the two children accidentally bury their mother alive, a theme in Poes works. Eliza escapes her grave, however, and strangles her boss to death  a murder similar to the ending of Poes The Fall of the House of Usher, and the show itself.

The Masque of the Red Death

The second episode borrows from Poe's 1842 story "Masque of the Red Death."

In that story, Prince Prospero  described as happy and dauntless, and sagacious  ignores the people around him dying of a mysterious illness called the Red Death. Prince Prospero is similar to Rodericks son Prospero Usher in the show, who is more interested in sustaining his lavish lifestyle than grappling with how it was earned.

Both Prosperos throw a doomed party. Poe's Prospero has a masquerade in a massive abbey, where guests can escape from the plague outside. They walk though seven color-coded rooms (symbolizing stages of life), but are too afraid to enter the eerie last room. A skeletal figure arrives, beckoning Prospero and eventually the other guests to that room, where they contract the Red Death.

Sauriyan Sapkota as Prospero Usher

Flanagan's version has a mysterious red room. There, a masked and cloaked Verna, similar to the figure in the short story, seduces Prospero. She offers him an escape from of his doomed path, which he doesn't take.

Both stories end in his death. In Flanagan's show, it's not by Red Death, but by a sprinkler filled with acid. Themes of indifference and arrogance ultimately cost Propsero his life.

Murder in the Rue Morgue

The series third episode was inspired by Poes 1841 release Murder in the Rue Morgue.

The 1841 original was notably the first modern detective story, according to the Poe museum, with leading man C. Auguste Dupin later serving as the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes.

As in the show, C. Auguste is an investigator, but the short story follows his research into the violent murders of Madame LEspanaye and her daughter Camille. C. Auguste finds that the murders were caused by something non-human  an escaped orangutan who scaled their Rue Street home and killed them.

In Flanagan's short story, Roderick's daughter  named Camille L'Espanaye  is killed by a chimpanzee.

The Black Cat

Both the short story and the episode The Black Cat follow the main characters descent into madness, though initially appearing sane  a theme found in other Poe works, such as The Tell-Tale Heart.

In the show, Napoleon Usher blacks out one night and suspects he stabbed his partner's cat, Pluto, to death. This is similar to Poe's version, when the main character's excessive drinking leads him to kill his wife's cat. In both stories, he adopts a similar looking cat to make up for his guilt.

The new cat begins to torture both main characters. The narrator in Poes story attempts to kill the look-alike, but ends up murdering his wife with an axe when she gets in the way instead. He then hides her body in the damp walls of his home. After the cat lets out a meow from within the walls, police discover her corpse ... and the cat sitting on her head.

Flanagans House of Usher pays homage to that spooky final image by showing Verna seemingly dead and trapped in the walls with the cat sitting atop her head.

Rahul Kohli as Napoleon Usher in

Because Poe used an unnamed narrator in the horrific tale, the Usher sons name was likely inspired by another work, The Spectacles, where the main characters name was originally Napoleon Bonaparte Froissart.

The Tell-Tale Heart

Both the fifth episode of the series and the short story feature a main character driven mad by guilt.

In Poes 1843 The Tell-Tale Heart, a narrator is so deeply bothered by an old mans pale blue, vulture-like eyes that he kills him and hides his remains in the floorboards. From then on, he hears the sound of a heartbeat emanating from the burial site. He finally confesses.

Victorine Usher, Roderick's daughter, accidentally kills her partner Alessandra following a fight about their medical device. She, too, is haunted by a clicking noise. Soon, we see what it is: Alessandra's corpse, propped up, with the medical device wrapped around her heart.

Notably, the center of the medical device resembles that of a vulture-like eye in Poes original work.

Unlike the story, Victorine ends up driving herself mad to the point of stabbing herself to death. In both versions, however, it could be said their descent into madness ultimately led to their demise.

Poes The Tell-Tale Heart also uses an unnamed narrator, but the Usher daughters name could have been inspired by Victorine Lafourcade of the writers 1844 story, The Premature Burial. This story is focused on being buried alive and later rescued.

Goldbug

Poes The Gold-Bug is focused around William Legrand, who could have inspired Flanagans character Tamerlanes wife, Billy.

After William loses his family's fortune, he's bitten by a golden beetle, which leads to his discovery of a secret message and hidden pirate treasure.

The show's sixth episode doesn't take on the same plot line, but seems to follow some of Poe's poem "Tamerlane," the namesake of the second eldest Usher child. The poem tells of a conqueror's deathbed confession, where he admits to prioritizing power over love. Similarly, in the show, Tamerlane chooses her lifestyle brand Goldbug over her husband.

Samantha Sloyan as Tamerlane in

The Pit and The Pendulum

Poe's "The Pit and The Pendulum" ends on a hopeful note. The show, one should note, does not.

In Poe's version, a prisoner during the Spanish Inquisition narrowly escapes death. But Frederick Usher isn't so lucky; he's killed by a pendulum.

The narrator in Poes The Pit and The Pendulum doesnt have a name, but the eldest Usher child was likely inspired by Frederick von Metzengerstein in the writers 1843 work, Metzengerstein.

The Raven

The Raven is a character in the Netflix show. Verna is present at all the characters deaths, and her name is an anagram for raven. She is a harbinger of death.

She isnt human. You could say she is the executor of fate or karma, Carla Gugino told Netflix of her character.

Poes poem The Raven tells the tale of a man dealing with the grief of lost love Lenore.

The mans thoughts are interrupted by a raven at his window. The raven has one word to say: Nevermore. The word implies that nothing will change for our narrator and that grief is inescapable.

In Flanagans show, Roderick Usher grapples with the death of his innocent granddaughter, Lenore. At one point, Roderick narrates Poe's famous work.

Family member's names

Nearly all the names in the show hold some connection to the author, starting with Roderick and Madeline, who are the twins in Poe's Fall of the House of Usher.

Poes 1835 poem Morella likely inspired the name for Fredericks wife and Lenores mom, Morelle. Meanwhile, Arthur Pyms name could have been influenced by Poes The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket.

Though they dont share the same name, Rodericks 22-year-old wife Juno could be a connection to Poes own young wife, cousin Virginia Eliza Poe, whom he married when she was 13 and he was 27. Solely based on her name, however, Juno could have also been a reference to the writers poem Eureka, which mentions Juno.

Victorines girlfriend, Alessandra Ruiz, was likely based on one of the characters in Poes 1835 unpublished play Politan. As for Rufus Wilmot Griswold, the CEO of Fortunato who acts as a pain to Roderick and Madeline? He takes on the name of Poes longtime critic.

In another Poe reference, Fortunatos money-making drug Ligadone was likely inspired by the 1938 tale, Ligeia. The story, which has a central theme focused around the inevitability of death, follows a woman named Rowena, who originally died from an illness but was resurrected as Ligeia.

The finale is based on another short story

The finale has elements of Poe's The Cask of Amontillado.

In the story, a man named Montresor seeks revenge on another man named Fortunato, Flanagan's title for the family's pharmaceutical company. Montresor gets Fortunato, who is dressed as a jester, drunk on wine and the two venture into the catacombs. There, he buries him alive in the walls.

Flanagan's version sees Roderick and Madeline go to a Fortunato company party and gift Rufus, who is also dressed as a jester, poisoned wine called Amontillado. As he starts to feel the effects, Madeline seductively takes him to the basement. There, she and her brother bury him alive.

After all, if we learned anything from this deep dive into Poe's works, it's that it wouldn't be a Poe story if someone didn't end up buried alive, or in the floorboards, or in the walls.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
A Ukrainian police officer inspects a half-destroyed building when, suddenly, he rushes to the ground, ducking for cover.

Incoming, he shouts to his partner, in body camera video seen by CNN, as a shell lands nearby. There will be more.

Theres little to police these days in Avdiivka as most of the people who used to live in this frontline city are gone. But some 1,600 have remained, and this unit  the White Angels  are there to evacuate them to safety.

On average, we evacuate four people from Avdiivka per day, Lieutenant Dmytro Soloviy, a member of the unit told CNN in a phone interview.

The city had been left on the frontline when pro-Moscow separatists seized large portion of the Donbas region, including the nearby city of Donetsk, in 2014, and has been under fire since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

But on October 10, Moscow began a concentrated push, sending waves of soldiers and armoured vehicles while also intensifying shelling of the city. The attack on Avdiivka comes as the front lines of the war remain relatively static, with Ukraines counteroffensive continuing to move much more slowly than initially anticipated.

Some analysts had initially suggested the Russian move was designed to force Kyiv to divert some of the forces it had been using for its attacks along the southern and eastern front lines, but Ukrainian officials say the goal is actually to make advances while Kyiv is focused elsewhere.

The situation is tense, Soloviy said, explaining people can no longer leave on their own, they have to wait to be evacuated. Because of the increased shelling, people have started to sign up more often (for evacuation).

Lt. Dmytro Soloviy. - Ukraine National Police

Many of Avdiivkas residents had already fled before the full-scale invasion, leaving the city with a pre-war population of around 30,000.

Most of the people remaining in the city are elderly, mostly men. They [stayed because] did not want to leave their homes, Soloviy explained. Now the situation is grim. Just so you understand, 10-15 bombs are dropped every day.

Between airstrikes and artillery, supply lines into the city have also slowed down and so Solviys unit has had to step in.

At the moment, we are the only ones bringing in the aid. We bring in humanitarian aid, bread, medicines, he said. We go every day, there are no days off.

There used to be three grocery stores operating in Avdiivka. Two of them were destroyed by missiles. Now only one sad little grocery store is open, he added. There is nowhere to buy bread so once a week, we bring some so people can get bread.

A battle-hardened city

When people began leaving Avdiivka in 2014, the Ukrainian military moved in, fortifying the city and building up its defenses, turning it into a stronghold. Nine years and a full-scale invasion later and the frontline near Avdiivka has barely shifted.

Video of the White Angels unit driving into the city shows a city covered in yellow and blue. Dozens of Ukrainian flags dot the route, but so do crumbling walls and shattered windows - entire buildings, some several stories high, razed to the ground.

The situation has not changed radically - it is tough, the head of the Avdiivka city military administration Vitalii Barabash said in daily update on Wednesday. The defense line around the city and in the city itself is constantly under fire. (The Russians) are firing with everything they have.

Airstrikes, missiles and artillery, constantly pointed at the city and its surroundings. Russia has been able to make small gains west of Krasnohorivka, to the north of Aviidvka, but those marginal advances have come with a heavy price tag and Moscows still a long way off from its objective.

Russian troops continue to try to encircle Avdiivka, making numerous attempts to storm it, the Ukrainian National Guard said in an update Wednesday. Our soldiers are steadfastly holding the line, inflicting significant losses in manpower and equipment on the enemy.

On the ground, the fighting constant and fierce.

Small arms battles and artillery duels continue around the clock, Barabash explained. The assault continues 24/7.

And after losing a large chunk of military equipment, including tanks and armoured personnel carriers, in the first few days of the offensive, Russia seems to have shifted to a tactic it knows well, the same it used on Ukrainian forces defending the city of Bakhmut.

The enemy is assaulting, throwing more and more flesh, Barabash explained. The Russians decided to push on, they keep going despite the losses.

But for those who go to Avdiivka day in and day out, thats where the comparisons end.

I dont think its the same as Bakhmut. Avdiivka is a battle-hardened town, its been through a lot, Solviy said. People there are used to it.

No building left intact

While Moscows strategy has failed to play out as intended, it has still exacted a toll on Avdiivka. The citys sole hospital is still functional but unable to provide advanced care.

The hospital operates as a stabilization point. Here patients are stabilized and we further transfer them to other cities, where people are provided with more professional help, Solviy explained, adding theres not enough staff for the demand. There is a chief physician Vitalii Sytnik and up to 10 nurses.

Aside from the hospital, Avdiivkas civilian infrastructure is all but gone.

There is not a single building left intact, Barabash said on Wednesday, while Solviy shared a similar view.

Everything is destroyed, the officer said. Back in the summer, there were hopes that we might come back. There had not yet been heavy destruction.

Now it is an irreversible process. The city is a ruin, he added.

But while some people remain, Solviy will continue his daily trips to Avdiivka, hoping to ease the suffering and provide some comfort.

I could have been a regular cop, shuffling papers in my office. I chose to be a White Angel, he said. It can be scary. Sometimes the fear just takes over, but then it goes away and I keep going.

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Columbus police and the Ohio Attorney General's office on Oct. 25 announced an indictment against Rebecca Auborn, a 33-year-old woman authorities say is a serial killer.

Here's what we know about the case.

Who is Rebecca Auborn?

Auborn, 33, is from the Northeast Side of Columbus. She had no significant criminal history until earlier this year when police say she began meeting men for sex and drugging them to rob them.

Records show Auborn has at least one child and had a daughter who died at 18 days old in November 2016.

What is she accused of doing?

Authorities allege that Auborn met men for sex at hotels around Columbus, drugging them and then robbing them. The men died from fatal overdoses in at least four of those meetings. A fifth person survived, the attorney general's office said.

According to the indictment, the fatal overdoses occurred on Jan. 15, April 1, April 13 and June 17. The person who survived met Auborn on Dec. 13.

The meetings are believed to have taken place at hotels on the Northeast Side of Columbus in the areas of Interstate 71, State Route 161, Cleveland Avenue and East 17th Avenue.

A map displays the locations in which a 33-year-old Columbus woman may have drugged and robbed men, potentially resulting in fatal overdoses. Rebecca Auborn was indicted Wednesday on charges related to five overdoses, four of which were fatal.

In September, authorities charged Auborn in connection with the Jan. 15 case that resulted in the death of a 30-year-old man.

Court records from another case said Auborn admitted to detectives that she had mixed fentanyl in a man's crack pipe after meeting him for sex. In that case, Auborn told detectives she knew the man was overdosing but took his vehicle and debit card, according to court records.

What are the charges against Auborn?

In the indictment filed Wednesday, Auborn is charged with four counts of murder and four counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the deaths. She also faces five counts of aggravated robbery, five counts of felonious assault, five counts of corrupting another with drugs, one count of tampering with evidence and four counts of trafficking in drugs.

All of the charges are felonies.

Should Auborn be convicted on all charges, she faces decades in prison.

How did the investigation start?

The Ohio Attorney General's office said in a press release the investigation began because of a tip received by the Central Ohio Human Trafficking Task Force.

According to the AG's office, that tip said a woman was meeting "johns" at hotels in Northeast Columbus and drugging them to steal their possession.

Police are continuing to investigate overdose deaths that occurred between December 2022 and August 2023 in the area bounded by Interstate 71, Route 161, Cleveland Avenue and East 17th Avenue.

Why is Auborn being called a serial killer?

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost told the Dispatch he feels Auborn meets the criteria for a serial killer because she has more than three deaths allegedly connected to her, all of which have a similar pattern.

"Ive never seen a case similar to this in my career, and having talked to colleagues, they haven't seen this kind of thing," Yost said.

Definitions of serial killers can vary.

Yost also expressed concern that Auborn's actions could result in work his office has done to promote awareness about human trafficking being undone.

"It would be a real injustice if the actions of this individual were an impediment to other survivors of human trafficking. Most of the women who are survivors are victims," he said. "They are not predators, they are the prey of the predators."

What are police saying about the case?

Reached for comment Thursday morning, Columbus police said they are currently not providing interviews to any media outlets. However, authorities have asked that anyone with information to call a tip line at 614-645-2228.

Yost did not provide any additional details about the case when speaking to the Dispatch.

What happens next in the case?

Auborn will next appear in Franklin County Common Pleas Court for an arraignment.

At that hearing, a judge will set bond in the case, and Auborn is expected to enter a not guilty plea. The case will then have a trial date set.

Auborn does not currently have a lawyer appointed to represent her, according to court records.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Here's what we know about accused serial killer Rebecca Auborn
MUNCIE, Ind.  Former local attorney Michael Quirk is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 9 for a felony conviction stemming from his battering of a juvenile in a local restaurant.

On Thursday, he briefly joined the staff  for only a few hours  in the Delaware County Building's election office.

Delaware County Clerk Rick Spangler said he was notified Wednesday by Quirk's sister, Delaware County Democratic Party Chairman Ana Quirk Hunter, that she had assigned her brother to work in the election office.

Republicans and Democrats each have three employees working in the office in the weeks prior to an election. Their duties include the processing of requests for absentee ballots.

Word of the appointment rankled Spangler, a Republican, given Michael Quirk's August conviction for battery on a person less than 14 years old, a Level 6 felony carrying up to 30 months in prison.

Spangler on Wednesday night took his concerns about Quirk's appointment, in the wake of the felony conviction, to state election officials.

However, the county clerk said he was told the appointment "is not illegal."

Contacted Thursday morning, Democratic Chairman Quirk Hunter said she was "scrambling" in efforts to have three party members working in the election office. She said her brother was one of several people recruited for the work in recent days.

Quirk Hunter said the temporary nature of the election-office jobs  and the deaths in recent years of longtime Democrats who had been willing to fill the posts  made it increasingly difficult to keep the office staffed.

By mid-day, however, Michael Quirk's stint working in the office was apparently over.

Andrew Dale, chairman of Democrat Jeff Robinson's campaign for mayor, said he was "astonished" to learn of Quirk's election-related employment, and engaged party Chairman Quirk Hunter "to have him removed and replaced with highly reputable Democrat members of our community."

Dale said the new employees were "people that were readily willing and able to serve."

"Aside from this morning, Mike Quirk will not be working at the early voting site," Dale added.

At least one other Democratic candidate in the upcoming election reportedly objected to Quirk's employment.

Quirk is not a stranger to Delaware County politics.

He was the county's Democratic Party chairman from 2010 to 2013. Under his leadership, Dennis Tyler in 2011 became the first Democrat to win a Muncie mayoral election in 24 years.

The Delaware Circuit Court 2 jury that convicted Quirk of the felony count in August also found the Muncie man guilty of two misdemeanors, resisting law enforcement and public intoxication.

The charges stemmed from events on April 20, 2022, at the Puerta Vallarta restaurant at 3505 N. Wheeling Ave.

Witnesses said an intoxicated Quirk had aggressively grabbed the chest of a 12-year-old boy, with whom he was not acquainted.

Blackford Circuit Court Judge Brian Bade, who presided over the case, set Quirk's sentencing hearing for Nov. 9.

Quirk's law license was suspended by the Indiana Supreme Court in 2019.

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: Ex-attorney, awaiting sentencing, has brief stint in election office
Editors note: Reality Check is a Star series holding those in power to account and shining a light on their decisions. Have a suggestion for a future story? Email tips@kcstar.com.

A former Kansas lawmaker, who has a history of abusive behavior toward women and was arrested twice while serving his one term in Topeka, is running for a seat on a Wyandotte County school board.

Aaron Coleman, who served in the Kansas House as a Democrat before losing reelection in the 2022 primary, will be among five candidates on the Nov. 7 ballot for a seat on the Turner USD 202 Board of Education.

Four seats are up for election, meaning the top four vote-getters will be elected. Every other candidate, including Wyandotte County Sheriff Daniel Soptic, is an incumbent, according to the Wyandotte County Election Office.

Asked to complete a candidate survey this month for The Stars voter guide, Coleman responded with what he called his only statement: The KC star has done me dirty, they are trash. I stand by my legislative record in the Kansas House of Representatives.

Coleman, who faced calls to resign as a lawmaker, later answered questions by email, saying most of his past behavior that has been condemned occurred when he was a young teenager.

Taking office as a lawmaker at age 20 in 2021, Coleman was accused of a pattern of prior abusive behavior, including allegations that he slapped and choked a former girlfriend when they dated in 2019. An investigative committee found the abuse allegations credible, but legislators took no action because the behavior occurred before Coleman took office.

Asked what he would say to voters concerned about his past, Coleman, now 23, disagreed with the characterization that it was a pattern of behavior. He said that behavior has not been repeated since he was a teenager.

Coleman also made social media threats against Gov. Laura Kelly and other women. Following the November 2020 election, he wrote that Kelly would face an extremely bloody Democratic primary in two years. People will realize one day when I call a hit out on you its real, he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. He later deleted the post and said he shouldnt have used the word hit.

As a legislator, Coleman received diversion after he was charged with misdemeanor domestic battery for allegedly kicking and pushing his brother during an argument. He was additionally found guilty of one of two traffic infractions in Douglas County after he allegedly led state troopers on a brief pursuit on Interstate 70 and acted in an erratic manner when he was pulled over.

Coleman was also banned from the Kansas Department of Labor offices in Topeka after he berated a security guard.

Some of Colemans alarming behavior as a teenager included a 2015 arrest. Then 14, he was charged with a felony for threatening to shoot a student at a Turner School District school. He later pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of harassment.

In a Facebook post this week, Coleman said he suffered around that time from anti-social behavior, including post-traumatic stress disorder. He did regrettable things, he wrote, but said that is what would make him the perfect candidate.

Coleman has run on a campaign of addressing mental health issues. In one video, he said he would like to see mental health addressed so we can recognize some of these problems and solve bullying.

I will continue to champion proper mental health not only on the school level, but on the community level as well, he said in an email to The Star.

Coleman has also touted his time in Topeka, where he said he drafted policy and analyzed budgets. Coleman, though, was not assigned to any committees, which limited his influence in the statehouse.

Soptic, one of the incumbents who is a Turner graduate, recently wrote on Facebook that voters must do their research before just selecting a name at the ballot. He would not normally endorse lumping candidates together, he said, but he was making an exception this time.

Electing anyone other than the 4 current board members back to board of education could have a devastating effect on our students, parents, district and staff, Soptic wrote.

Like Soptic, another one of the incumbents, Bryan Fishbaugh, who is also a Turner graduate whose sons went to Turner, encouraged residents to vote for the four incumbents.

There was a fifth application submitted to be on the ballot with only minutes left before the deadline, he wrote on Facebook.
LANSING  A former prison officer has sued the Michigan Department of Corrections over alleged sexual harassment, saying she had to quit the job she loved because a supervisor wouldn't leave her alone after she ended a brief romantic relationship.

Kristy Klenke, 45, whose allegations include sex discrimination and retaliation, says she can't understand why a department desperately short of corrections officers would rather lose someone like her than honor its dual pledges of "zero tolerance" for workplace sexual harassment and "no retaliation" for those who speak up about it.

For months, the department has been airing TV ads, paying hiring bonuses, and taking other extraordinary steps as it attempts to fill about 1,000 officer vacancies statewide that the officers union says have resulted in oppressive amounts of forced overtime and undermined prison safety.

"They need me in that job," Klenke, who quit in August, said in an interview with the Free Press at her attorney's office in Detroit.

Kyle Kaminski, a spokesman for the Corrections Department, said Wednesday the department can't comment "pending its investigation into the facts alleged in this recent filing."

Corrections Officer Kristy Klenke at Ernst Law Firm in Detroit on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023.

Klenke, who joined the MDOC in December 2018, alleges in the lawsuit she briefly dated a supervisor, Sgt. Mario Cunningham, starting in April 2019. Then she found out Cunningham was married. She confronted him about that in June 2019 and told him that going forward, she only wanted a professional relationship with him, the complaint alleges.

But Cunningham, who has denied harassing Klenke, continued to text her and otherwise try to contact her, the suit alleges. He talked to others about their prior relationship so much that it was common knowledge not only among staff at the Michigan Reformatory in Ionia, which closed in November, but even the prisoners, Klenke said.

At the same time, officials messed with her work schedule and gave her undesirable or unsafe work assignments, such as requiring her to work near prisoners who knew personal information about her, or requiring her to work without a partner to back her up, Klenke alleges.

"It's already a dangerous job," Klenke said. "You want to know that when you go in there, that people respect you and people care if something happens to you."

On Monday, Klenke sued the department in Ionia County Circuit Court. Earlier, Klenke filed sexual harassment complaints against Cunningham in September 2019 and July 2020, and against another supervisor, who she says made a sexual remark when she complained about her work assignments, in March 2022. She also sued Cunningham and three other prison officials, but not the department itself, in February 2021. That case is still pending in federal court in Michigan's western district. And in June of this year, with the help of her union, Klenke filed a grievance with the MDOC, alleging a hostile work environment.

Two months later, with the grievance still pending, Klenke resigned. She said it got to the point where she did not feel safe and her health was suffering, due to the extra stress.

Cunningham is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit filed Monday, which only names the Michigan Department of Corrections. But in a filing in the federal lawsuit, Cunningham denied sexually harassing Klenke but acknowledged a three-month consensual relationship that Klenke ended. Cunningham said in a court filing he only texted Klenke once after she ended the relationship, to ask her to lunch, though he also admits to "inadvertently" adding Klenke to a SnapChat account in 2020 and telling another prison official he would like to be able to sit down with her. Cunningham denies he was Klenke's direct supervisor and denies altering her work schedule, saying he did not have the authority to do so. Cunningham acknowledged one previous sexual harassment complaint against him from another female employee, around 2015, which he said was determined to be unfounded.

The state normally provides legal representation for employees who get sued in connection with their jobs, but Cunningham is representing himself in the federal lawsuit. Neither the Attorney General's Office nor the Corrections Department would say why the state is not providing him with a lawyer.

Cunningham did not respond to emails from the Free Press.

Klenke said officials took no action in response to her first sexual harassment complaint, except that she was moved to a different shift with a lower rate of pay. Later, she was moved back onto the same shift Cunningham worked, making her uncomfortable as she encountered him in the workplace, the suit alleges. After her second complaint, in 2020, officials transferred Cunningham to another Ionia prison, Bellamy Creek Correctional Facility.

Corrections Officer Kristy Klenke with her attorney Hannah Fielstra at Ernst Law Firm in Detroit on Friday, Sept. 15, 2023.

When Michigan Reformatory closed, Klenke said she would have been sent to Bellamy Creek, based on seniority, but was instead sent to Ionia Correctional Facility, considered a better assignment, because Cunningham was at Bellamy Creek. That created resentment among some fellow officers and Klenke said she received hostile treatment at that facility, where she said Cunningham had many friends.

But the department ignored her requests for a transfer away from Ionia to a prison in St. Louis or the Jackson area, she said. She said she was instead forced to quit despite having only one work rule violation on her record. That was the result of an argument with another officer, which was also related to the issues with Cunningham, she said.

The suit, which seeks unspecified damages, alleges three violations of Michigan's Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act: "Disparate treatment" based on her gender; retaliation; and creation of a hostile work environment.

Hannah Fielstra, Klenke's Detroit attorney, said Klenke did everything she should have done, in terms of filing complaints and a workplace grievance.

"Four years since she filed her initial grievance, she still has not seen accountability or any solution," Fielstra said.

Klenke said it was painful to sit through sexual harassment training at MDOC, where they preach "zero tolerance" of such conduct, when she had experienced sexual harassment and knew otherwise.

Also, "when you file formal paperwork, you become a target," she said.

Contact Paul Egan: 517-372-8660 or pegan@freepress.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @paulegan4.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Ex-Michigan prison officer sues MDOC, says she was sexually harassed
Liz Truss, the foreign secretary, said the asylum seekers should be brought to the UK

Ex-PM Liz Truss called for asylum seekers stranded on a tiny British territory in the Indian Ocean to be brought to the UK for their own safety.

The request was made in an email sent on behalf of Ms Truss to the prime minister's office when she was serving as foreign secretary in March 2022.

However, it was seemingly ignored.

The redacted email was released to the BBC by the Supreme Court of British Indian Ocean Territory this week after being opposed by the government.

Responding to BBC questions over the contents of the email, the Foreign Office said the British Indian Ocean Territory (Biot) "cannot be a backdoor migration route to the UK".

"Enabling migrants to come to the UK from Biot would only incentivise further irregular migration, and enable criminal gangs to exploit individuals to make dangerous journeys across the sea."

Dozens of Sri Lankan Tamils have been stranded for more than two years in a makeshift camp on the remote island of Diego Garcia, which hosts a secretive UK-US military base.

The first group landed there in October 2021 after their fishing boat ran into trouble while trying to sail to Canada, according to migrants and officials.

Their subsequent asylum claims were the first to ever be launched on Biot - an area described as being "constitutionally distinct and separate from the UK", and where court papers say the refugee convention does not apply.

Satellite image of Diego Garcia, with a label showing the location of the UK/US military base to the north-west

Asylum seekers have described conditions on the island as hellish, but the territory's unusual legal status has left them in limbo.

Many claim to have links with the former Tamil Tiger rebels in Sri Lanka, who were defeated in the civil war that ended in 2009, and say they have faced persecution as a result. Some allege they were victims of torture or sexual assault.

Ms Truss' email was set to be included as evidence in a court case last month, but a deal was reached beforehand to withdraw decisions to return migrants whose protection claims had been rejected, to Sri Lanka, and to launch a new process.

The email sent to the private secretary of then Prime Minister Boris Johnson five months after the first group's arrival, states that while Ms Truss "strongly supports the government's overall posture on migration", she "feels that the unique circumstances and severity of risks in this situation require us to take extraordinary action and bring the migrants to the UK for processing".

It states that arrangements were being made to determine whether the return of migrants to Sri Lanka "potentially forcibly" would "be in line with public international law". But it says Ms Truss believed "a more urgent and direct approach" was required.

The email states that the Biot administration has a "duty of care to the migrants", and says "there are severe limitations to the mitigation measures which can be implemented on Biot given the lack of facilities".

It also states that the group had made a "credible threat of mass suicide".

An image provided by one of the migrants shows people on the deck of their fishing boat

The BBC has spoken to multiple migrants who say they have attempted suicide because of poor conditions on the island. There have also been hunger strikes, which lawyers say have involved children.

"I didn't want to live here like a caged animal forever," one man said earlier this year of his attempted suicide.

Lawyers representing asylum seekers on Diego Garcia say that as of late September, 61 remained on the island. Four were in Rwanda after being relocated there for treatment following suicide attempts.

Four people have had their claims to be sent to a "safe third country" approved, but the BBC understands that no country has yet been identified to relocate them to.

One of the group's lawyers, Tessa Gregory, noted that 18 months after Ms Truss's call for the asylum seekers to be relocated to the UK for processing their asylum claims, "our clients remain on the island enduring terrible conditions with no freedom of movement".

"[T]heir asylum claims [were] unresolved because the process they have been subjected to did not withstand legal challenge. It is imperative that this group, which includes children, victims of torture and sexual assault, be urgently relocated to a safe third country, like the UK, to have their claims for international protection lawfully and fairly processed."

Ms Truss was unavailable for comment when contacted by the BBC.
U.S. President Biden delivers remarks on healthcare coverage and the economy, in Washington

By Trevor Hunnicutt

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Joe Biden is expected to speak with Wang Yi when China's top diplomat visits the White House this week, according to two U.S. officials familiar with planning for the visit.

Wang, who is set to meet Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan, at the White House on Friday could see Biden in person at that time, according to one of the people.

The White House declined to comment.

It is unclear how substantial their interaction will be, but even an informal greeting would be Biden's senior-most interaction with the Chinese government since he briefly met Chinese President Xi Jinping 's No. 2, Premier Li Qiang, on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.

It comes as U.S. and Chinese officials set the stage for a long-sought, one-on-one meeting between Biden and Xi at November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. Xi and Biden last met at a summit in Bali last November.

Wang is also set to meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his trip to Washington this Thursday through Saturday. Several top U.S. officials including Blinken met their Chinese counterparts in Beijing this summer.

Wang is the top foreign affairs official in the Chinese Communist Party and also foreign minister since the dismissal of Qin Gang in July.

Biden said during a press conference on Wednesday he plans to "compete" with China "according to the international rules - economically, politically, and other ways - but I'm not looking for conflict." He also warned Chinese officials against aggression toward the Philippines.

For his part, Xi said on Wednesday China is willing to cooperate with the United States as both sides manage their differences and work together to respond to global challenges, according to Chinese state media.

(Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Heather Timmons and Lincoln Feast.)
Claim:

In January 2007, then-U.S. Sen. Joe Biden said of fellow Sen. Barack Obama , "I mean, you got the first sort of mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy."

Rating:

Rating: Correct Attribution

A statement attributed to U.S. President Joe Biden that appears on X every so often is something that he supposedly said many years before he became president, referencing then-Sen. Barack Obama.

According to multiple posts on X, Biden said of Obama that he was "the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy."

These words were indeed spoken by Biden, around 13 years before he was elected to the presidency.

On Jan. 31, 2007, then-U.S. Sen. Biden filed paperwork to launch his campaign for president. On the same day, in remarks made that were audio-recorded by the New York Observer, Biden said of his fellow Democratic candidate, Obama, "I mean, you got the first sort of mainstream African-American." An unidentified reporter responded, "Yeah." Biden continued, "... who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. I mean, that's a storybook, man."

The audio of Biden's remark was played on multiple newscasts, including in this clip that appeared to originate from NBC News:

According to CNN.com, Obama issued a written statement later on the same day in response to Biden's comment:

I didn't take Sen. Biden's comments personally, but obviously they were historically inaccurate. African-American presidential candidates like Jesse Jackson, Shirley Chisholm, Carol Moseley Braun and Al Sharpton gave a voice to many important issues through their campaigns, and no one would call them inarticulate.

Three days later, the Charlotte Observer reported the following of the quote, also including the same four names mentioned by Obama:

In addition to sounding like a guy who's been ingesting too much caffeine, Sen. Biden managed in one sentence to imply that Carol Moseley Braun, Shirley Chisholm, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton  earlier Black presidential aspirants  were inarticulate, dim and dirty.

In 2010, MSNBC's Rachel Maddow replayed the sound of Biden's remark on "The Rachel Maddow Show." She also presented another gaffe in which Biden had once said, "You cannot go to a 7/11 or a Dunkin' Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent. I'm not joking."

The GOP War Room YouTube channel posted more of the comments that preceded Biden's "Indian accent" remark:

Sources:

Articulate, Bright and Clean? Charlotte Observer, Feb. 3, 2007, p. A8, www.newspapers.com/image/645922896/.

Bidens Description of Obama Draws Scrutiny. CNN.com, Feb. 9, 2007, https://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/31/biden.obama/.

FLASHBACK: Biden: Cannot Go To A 7-Eleven Or Dunkin Donuts Unless You Have A Slight Indian Accent. YouTube, GOP War Room, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwqkpwV8j_A.

Gregory, David. Sen. Biden Apologizes for Remarks on Obama. NBC News, Feb. 1, 2007, https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna16911044.

The Rachel Maddow Show : MSNBC : January 11, 2010 11:00pm-12:00am EST. Internet Archive TV News Search, Jan. 11, 2010, http://archive.org/details/MSNBC_20100112_040000_The_Rachel_Maddow_Show.

Top 10 Joe Biden Gaffes. Time, Mar. 23, 2010, https://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1895156_1894977_1644536,00.html.
Claim:

An image shared by the state of Israels official X account showed real milk cartons featuring pictures and details of an Israeli child and an infant taken hostage by Hamas in October 2023.

Rating:

Rating: Fake

Context:

The official account for the state of Israel shared the digitally manipulated image supposedly showing photographs and details of children reportedly taken hostage by Hamas. The image was created using a January 2021 stock photograph of milk cartons with expiration dates in March 2021. Those expiration dates were visible in the digitally manipulated image.

On Oct. 25, 2023, the state of Israels official X account posted an image supposedly showing milk cartons with photos of two children who were reportedly being held hostage by Hamas militants who had attacked Israel earlier in the month.

According to family members speaking to CBS News, Hamas militants seized brothers Ariel and Kfir Bibas, aged 9 months old and 4 years old, respectively, as well as their mother, on Oct. 7, 2023.

The image of blue and red-bordered milk cartons displayed the boys ages, as well the dates they were taken and a phone number for people to call with any information about their whereabouts. The post by the state of Israel's official X account read: BRING OUR BABIES HOME  ! Have you seen our children? They are currently being held hostage by terrorists in the Gaza Strip. Every minute counts. Share this and help us bring them home.

BRING OUR BABIES HOME  !



Have you seen our children?



They are currently being held hostage by terrorists in the Gaza Strip.



Every minute counts.



Share this and help us bring them home. pic.twitter.com/GjZuOeSqUw  Israel   (@Israel) October 25, 2023

However, the image was clearly digitally manipulated as evidenced by the differing shadows and coloring across the cartons. The account representing the Israeli government appeared to be the first to share the digitally edited image. It is unknown who exactly edited the image, but the person used authentic photographs of the boys, as well as text details about them, and a January 2021 stock photograph of milk cartons to make the image.

For those reasons, we have rated the claim "Fake."

We found the milk-carton photograph available for purchase on Alamy, a British stock photography agency. The photograph was also available on Shutterstock. Both agencies credited user "grandbrothers" for providing the stock image. No further details about the milk carton photo were available.

Looking at the photo shared by the Israeli government, we also noticed this sign of its inauthenticity: the cartons' expiration dates were in March 2021. The dates matched the expiration dates in the stock photo in Alamy's database of images. Also, other numbers and text on the cartons in the digitally manipulated photo, such as the number "36-3417" on the top and the label "HALF GALLON (1.89L)" on the bottom, matched the stock image.

The number "36-3417" on the top flap was the cartons' dairy code, a number that helps consumers learn where their milk came from and who bottled it. According to Cornell University's Ag Informer site, the code "36" means the milk came from New York state. The website Whereismymilkfrom.com  which is sponsored by the Virginia State Dairymen's Association  traced the code to a company in Delhi, New York.

In mid-October 2023, Israeli artists in New York City considered printing the details of the missing children on real milk cartons to raise awareness of their situation, according to a New York Times report  an effort reminiscent of milk cartons in the 1980s with images of missing children. But, the artists reportedly did not follow through with the project due to the time it would take to order and receive supplies.

Sources:

"Ag Informer | Where Is Your Milk From?" Cornell, Mar. 20, 2018. https://blogs.cornell.edu/agnewscenter/2018/03/20/where-is-your-milk-from/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

Chifalu, Nikki Overfelt. Heres What The Secret Code On Your Milk Gallon Really Means. Tasting Table, 24 Mar. 2022, https://www.tastingtable.com/810309/heres-what-the-secret-code-on-your-milk-gallon-really-means/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

Half Gallon Cartons Lactose Free Milk Stock Photo 1899071161. Shutterstock, https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/half-gallon-cartons-lactose-free-milk-1899071161. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

"Half Gallon Cartons of Lactose Free Milk on Fridge Shelf." Alamy. https://www.alamy.com/half-gallon-cartons-of-lactose-free-milk-on-fridge-shelf-this-is-a-special-product-for-the-consumption-of-people-who-are-lactose-intolerant-due-to-en-image399788902.html. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

"Israeli Family from Hamas-Raided Kibbutz Tries Not to Think the Worst as 3 Still Held, Including Baby Boy." CBS News, 20 Oct. 2023, https://www.cbsnews.com/news/israel-hamas-war-kibbutz-nir-oz-family-3-hostages-including-baby-boy/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

"Know The Code - Look For 50." Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets. https://agriculture.vermont.gov/administration/know-code-look-50#:~:text=It%20contains%20a%20%22use%2Dby,what%20state%20processed%20the%20milk. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

LaFrance, Adrienne. When Bad News Was Printed on Milk Cartons. The Atlantic, 14 Feb. 2017, https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2017/02/when-bad-news-was-printed-on-milk-cartons/516675/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

Rosman, Katherine. Kidnapped Posters Express Anguish Over Israeli Hostages. The New York Times, 16 Oct. 2023. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/16/nyregion/israeli-gaza-kidnapped-posters.html. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.

SAPUTO DAIRY FOODS USA LLC. Where Is My Milk From? https://www.whereismymilkfrom.com/dairy/saputo-dairy-foods-usa-llc-7/. Accessed 26 Oct. 2023.
BEIJING (Reuters) - Belarus this week joined China's International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) programme, the third country to sign up this month for a plan to eventually set up a permanently inhabited outpost on the moon's south pole.

Earlier in October, Pakistan and Azerbaijan joined the ILRS, a project jointly initiated by China and Russia in 2021 and widely seen as a rival to the U.S.-led Artemis programme.

Lunar missions this decade will establish a "basic" version of the research station, followed by more missions in the 2030s to construct a "full" version of the base.

By 2050, the ILRS is expected to be a fully operational station for lunar research, and potentially also a launch pad for crewed missions to other planets in the solar system.

Country Year/Month joined

China* 2021/June

Russia* 2021/June

Venezuela 2023/July

South Africa 2023/September

Azerbaijan 2023/October

Pakistan 2023/October

Belarus 2023/October

Note: (*) denotes founding member

(Reporting by Ryan Woo; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
Grand Rapids college placement advisor Sarah Zwyghuizen normally starts cajoling high school seniors in October to fill out the federal financial aid forms that are key to unlocking their chances of going to college.

Not this year.

A U.S. Department of Education delay in revising the forms known as the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) means college advisors nationally will have to wait two months until December, or even after Christmas break, to start helping the 20 million students that typically apply.

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Its a delay that wipes out two months in which about half of applicants fill out the forms nationally. Deadlines have been extended, but the time until colleges announce financial aid packages and students must make decisions has been slashed. And it raises fears students needing extra attention  particularly low income students and families who are unaware how the financial aid process works  will be left behind.

Advisors like Zwyghuizen are preparing and bracing for a scramble in the new year to make sure they have multiple chances to nudge students to apply and walk families that need extra help through the process. Many students dont believe they can afford college and need repeated prodding to apply and find out.

Theres fear of the unknown going into this later and with less preparation than we did before, said Zwyghuizen, who works for the Grand Rapids Promise, which helps pay tuition for students in a city where a third of children live in poverty. Theres already so many barriers people have with FAFSA.

Bill DeBaun, a director of the National College Attainment Network, said he has real concerns college access will drop, particularly for low-income students and those who would be first in their families to go to college.

The outreach to these students, the helping them understand that college is for them is what takes time and energy on top of actually completing the FAFSA, he said.

FAFSA determines eligibility for federal Pell grants for college expenses of up to $7,400 this school year. It is also the starting point for almost every need-based financial aid system in the country.

But with more than 100 questions asking for detailed financial information from families, its complicated and can scare some families off, particularly those who have not used them before.

Its the graveyard for so many college students, said Tom Harnisch, vice president of government relations for the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association.

The cumbersome process and outdated technology on the current form means far too many are locked out of aid, Richard Cordray, chief executive officer of the U.S. Office of Federal Student Aid said earlier this year.

The new forms, ordered by the FAFSA Simplification Act that Congress passed in 2020, will cut the number of questions more than in half. And applying will be even easier online if parents let the application import their tax filings.

The new forms will be accompanied by new aid formula that could help some families but hurt others. Though more students may be eligible for aid and expected family contributions could fall for many, the formula no longer accounts for siblings also going to college and there is debate over how the value of family land or small business assets are weighed.

The department has said for months the new forms will be available in December, but hasnt clarified if that will be early or late December, when holidays will slow completion.

That delay is of immediate concern to a dozen national associations of colleges and counselors who wrote U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona earlier this month urging him to set a release date as soon as he can, so they can plan their completion campaigns.

Because the timeline for completing the FAFSA will be much shorter than it has been in recent years, every day counts when it comes to supporting students and families through the new process, the letter said.

Harnisch, whose organization is one of the dozen, said he hopes advisors can start working with families before Christmas.

Weve told them that December 1 and December 31 are quite different for us, Harnisch said.

In cities like Grand Rapids, Zwyghuizend said, counselors are planning to jam the one-on-one meetings with students they normally spread out over the fall into just January.

Its going to be a lot of work in the second semester to try and get people ready at the last-minute, she said.

Others are focusing this month on a key initial step to completing the new forms  creating log-ons and IDs in the online system  that they can do now and avoid having to start from scratch in January.

In Cleveland, advisors have set four workshops just to create IDs between October and December. They are also planning intense family outreach in January.

We believe that our prework now will help keep parents and students engaged around FAFSA and financial aid, said Alison Bibb-Carson, spokesperson for CollegeNow, the nonprofit that handles college advising for the citys schools. We hope that this work and our extended outreach will keep numbers the same or maybe increase the number of FAFSA completion.

Cyekeia Lee, executive director of the Detroit College Access Network, is also banking on advance work and setting FAFSA IDs now will help students in that high-poverty city connect to aid they need.

So as long as you take that first initial step to get them the most prepared that we can, we will work with that, Lee said. As long as families start to work on the FSA ID I think youll still get enough traction once it comes out.

The 74s Linda Jacobson contributed to this story.
The Falls Township police union president has taken official action against Falls supervisors and its solicitor alleging they violated the states Sunshine Act twice last month.

George Thomas, president of the Police Association of Falls Township, filed the private criminal complaint alleging that the supervisors and its solicitor violated the law when the board took official action privately, then later officially approved those actions at the Sept. 25 public meeting.

Supervisors Jeffry Dence, Jeffrey Boraski, Erin Mullen, Brian Galloway, John Palmer and Solicitor Michael Clarke are named as defendants, according to a copy of the complaint, which was filed Tuesday.

These actions are further examples of a course of conduct by the Falls Township Board of Supervisors, who have in the past, also voted in private executive sessions to terminate the employment of two Falls Township police officers, Thomas alleged.

Here is what we know.

The Falls Township police union has filed a private criminal complaint alleging Falls Supervisors violated the state's Sunshine Act at its September meeting.

More Falls news Falls let auction house sell equipment without a contract. Why it may violate the law

What does the complaint allege that Falls Township did wrong?

Thomas alleges the township secretly created a new $130,000-a-year position without a job description or duties and without advertising the position, and agreed to hire former Tullytown Police Chief Dan Doyle.

Doyle started his job as the director of employment operations and chief human resources officer on Sept. 18, and records show he was offered the position a week earlier.

The board voted to ratify this hiring after knowingly violating the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act, Thomas said in the complaint.

The complaint also alleges that supervisors decided in private to enter into a contract with the Geyer Real Estate Auctioneers company to hold an online auction of surplus municipal equipment and items.

Records show the auction concluded before a contract was signed with the company, and that the supervisors did not vote on the contract at a public meeting until Sept. 25. Sunshine Act legal experts said the auction should not have taken place before a contract was approved at a public meeting.

Is Falls abusing Sunshine law exception? Is Falls Township using loophole to keep you out of hiring decisions?

What does the Sunshine Act say about official actions and public transparency

Any official government business must take place at an advertised meeting where the public is present and has the chance to comment before a vote is taken on any official business, under the law.

Public officials can discuss hiring and personnel in a closed session  one of three exceptions for private meetings  but can not take official action then, under the law.

Legal experts have said it appears Falls is routinely exploiting case law that has evolved around the Sunshine Act that allows a government agency to cure an earlier violation by holding a second public vote.

But the experts said that the cure vote is intended to remedy unintentional mistakes, not give agencies a means to vote on official business in private on a routine basis, then take a second public vote.

What Falls Township says about the allegations

A Falls Township spokeswoman did not immediately respond to an email Wednesday seeking comment on the filing of the Sunshine Law complaint.

The township previously issued a statement that the Geyer auction was advertised and conducted "consistent" with the requirements of the Second Class Township code.

The statement did not directly respond to the alleged Sunshine Act violation.

The statement cited time constraints involving bid awards for the new municipal building construction, as the reason it could not wait until after the Sept. 25 meeting to hold the surplus equipment auction.

The township and its solicitor, Michael Clarke, steadfastly denied its actions have violated the Sunshine Act.

What happens next with the Sunshine Act complaint?

The magisterial court where Thomas filed the complaint will forward it to the Bucks County District Attorneys Office, which will review it, according to Falls District Judge Jan Vislosky.

The DAs office has a specific assistant district attorney who reviews the Sunshine Act complaints to determine if there is probable cause a violation occurred and what action, if any, should be taken.

If the DAs office declines to pursue a complaint, it is returned to the magisterial court where it was filed and the minor court is responsible for notifying the filer.

If the complaint is accepted as a pending case, the DA will return the case to the magisterial court for a hearing. On Wednesday, Vislosky said if the case was accepted she would recuse herself.

New Falls hire on job before approval Ex-Tullytown police chief working for Falls now, but did township violate Sunshine law

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This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Did Falls violate Sunshine Act Police union files complaint against board
The U.S. government estimates that between 500 and 600 Americans are among the roughly 2.3 million people trapped in the Gaza Strip, which Israel has completely sealed off since the Palestinian territory's Hamas rulers launched their unprecedented terror attack on October 7. While hundreds of Americans have been flown out of Israel since then, not a single person  with the exception of four hostages released by Hamas  has been allowed to leave Gaza.

Israel has pummelled Gaza with relentless airstrikes for almost three weeks  all targeting Hamas fighters, weapons and infrastructure, according to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Health officials in the Hamas-run enclave claim the bombardment has killed more than 7,000 people.

Israel disputes that figure and has vowed to "destroy Hamas," which it blames for all deaths in Gaza, accusing the militants of using civilians as human shields. But the U.N. says the airstrikes have driven roughly half of Gaza's people from their homes, and along with Palestinian officials, it says nowhere is safe in Gaza.

CBS News has spoken with Americans among those who've tried to follow Israel's guidance for civilians to flee toward Gaza's southern border with Egypt ahead of a long-expected IDF ground invasion. Nabil Alshurafa, in Illinois, told CBS News his mother Naela was visiting family in Gaza when the war broke out, and she's now among the thousands stranded with little water, food or power.

Palestinians, some with foreign passports hoping to cross into Egypt at the Rafah crossing in the southern Gaza strip, on October 21, 2023. amid the ongoing battles between Israel and Palestinian groups. / Credit: Majdi Fathi/NurPhoto/Getty

The U.S. State Department urged Americans in Gaza to head for the Rafah border crossing with Egypt if they felt it was safe to do so, in the hope that the border gates will be opened to allow at least some foreign nationals out of the decimated strip of land.

Despite weeks of intense negotiations, the U.S. has been unable to secure an agreement between Israel, Egypt  which controls the border crossing  and Hamas, to open the border gates.

Why hasn't the Egypt-Gaza border opened?

A U.S. State Department spokesperson told CBS News this week that "every bit of this is complicated," comparing the negotiations over the Rafah crossing to a multi-layer puzzle.

"We're making progress and I think we'll get there, but it's difficult," the spokesperson said.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Israeli officials have put all the blame for the locked border gates on Hamas.

"Hamas has blocked them from leaving, showing once again, its total disregard for civilians of any kind who are, who are stuck in Gaza," Blinken said on "Face the Nation."

Egypt, however, says it's Israel bombing the area around the crossing that has prevented foreign nationals from escaping.

Civil defense teams and civilians search for survivors amid the rubble of buildings destroyed by Israeli airstrikes, in the city of Rafah, in the Gaza Strip, October 26, 2023. / Credit: Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu/Getty

"The Israeli authorities are the reason this matter has been delayed. The Rafah crossing is not safe for individuals," Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt's State Information Service (SIS), said at a news conference Tuesday in Cairo. He accused Israeli forces of bombing Gaza roads leading to Rafah four times, close to where foreign nationals have gathered to wait for an opening.

Rashwan said there were people waiting to cross into Egypt from 45 countries, the majority of which have embassies in Egypt, including the U.S.

He said Egypt was ready to allow the foreign and dual nationals through, however "the crossing needs to have employees on the [Palestinian] side to process the exit of individuals, but Israel says these employees are Hamas members, so they are at risk [of being killed] if they go to the crossing."

Until the diplomatic logjam is cleared, for families like the Alshurafas, there's only anxiety, and it's building by the day.

"These are Americans"

At his home outside Chicago, Nabil told CBS News about the conversations he's had with his mother, a retired hair stylist from southern California, since Israel started bombing Gaza.

"They're bombing the area," she told him at one point. He said it was "terrifying," and he could hear the explosions on the phone.



Naela, 66, has lived in the U.S. for 33 years. Her son said her cooking is legendary, and she's used those skills to feed refugees in California.



"It baffles me that she has no food now," he told CBS News. "This is a woman who's fed thousands of people."



Naela was only supposed to be away from home for 10 days to visit her sick mother. According to her son, she sleeps next to her mother, and the women cling to each other during airstrikes.

Naela Alshurafa is seen with her mother in Gaza. / Credit: Courtesy of the Alshurafa family.

Early in the conflict, before losing internet access, Naela was interviewed by the Al Jazeera network, and she issued an emotional appeal: "I'm really asking the government to take me out soon, as soon as they can."



"These are Americans," Nabil told CBS News, adding that despite the war around her, she is still a mother to her kids: "A few days ago when I called her she's telling me to pay the gas bill and the Costco bill, and I'm like, 'Mom, seriously.'"



He said his mother had made four attempts to leave Gaza through the Rafah crossing, but was prevented each time  once by an Israeli airstrike.



"You can't just tell her, 'You go to the border. Maybe you'll get out. Maybe not. Try your luck,'" he said. "The Israeli Americans are getting charter flights, cruise ships, food, wifi The U.S. citizens in Gaza, what are they getting?"

"Anxiety, abandonment and overall helplessness"

Noor Bsiso is another Palestinian American with family members stuck in Gaza. She travelled to Egypt hoping to help her sister and her children once they cross into Egypt, but she's still waiting for that to happen.

"The U.S. embassy here in Cairo redirects me to the emergency line which, in turn, tells me to monitor the travel website and reach out to the email given," she said. "They let me know they have a team working 24/7 to make things happen."

A file photo shows Palestinians, many who have foreign passports, gathered on the Gaza side of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, amid the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023. / Credit: CBS News

"My sister has received emails that Rafah border is possibly opening or actually opening, such as the most recent email from 10/21. They go to the border despite dangerous conditions and don't receive further communication  left to wait until they feel hopeless and return to where they are staying."

"People are being killed and families are stuck in Gaza," Bsiso said. "I, along with thousands of Americans, are calling on U.S. officials  especially President Biden, to demand a cease-fire and assist their citizens in evacuating from the Gaza Strip."



"No words can describe what they are going through," she said. "Feelings of fright, anxiety, abandonment and overall helplessness. We worry about them regardless, even more every time we can't get ahold of my sister and family."

Nabil Alshurafa is seen with his mother, Naela. / Credit: Courtesy of the Alshurafa family

Nabil Alshurafa said he felt "betrayed by my government," and he failed to "understand why they're not trying to get my mother out via the sea or through Israel, our ally here."

He told CBS News his family was suing the U.S. government, which he said had an obligation to get his mother out of Gaza.

"Honestly, I'm kind of just preparing myself right now, you know, for the fact that this might be a reality where I get a phone call that tells me my mother's not alive."

Adriana Diaz reported from Chicago, Anam Siddiq from Los Angeles, Ahmed Shawkat from Cairo, Egypt, and Tucker Reals from London, U.K.

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Mor Raviv spoke at a media briefing in a Madrid Jewish centre with four other relatives of hostages kidnapped during the Hamas attack (JAVIER SORIANO)

Families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, the Islamist group which carried out brutal attacks on Israel on October 7, called Thursday for access for the Red Cross to treat their relatives.

"We want to see where the Red Cross is. We know the Red Cross is in Gaza, so we want the world to tell the Red Cross to go and see what is going on with our families," said Merav Mor Raviv, whose uncle and aunt are detained in Gaza by Hamas along with their daughter and grandson.

Mor Raviv spoke at a media briefing in a Madrid Jewish centre with four other relatives of hostages kidnapped during the Hamas attack.

"Hamas is not letting (the Red Cross) see our families. That's why we need your help," said Maayan Segal-Koren, the daughter of one of the hostages.

The hostages' relatives are undertaking a tour of European cities, a civil society initiative in cooperation with Israel's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, they said at the start of the media briefing.

After Paris and Madrid, they will also speak in Brussels, Copenhagen, The Hague, Vienna, Berlin and Rome, they said.

Naama Weinberg, a cousin of hostage Itai, called on the Spanish government to do "whatever they can to talk to the countries that can talk with Hamas".

The relatives declined to comment on the management of the crisis by the government of Benjamin Netanyahu, nor on the possible military offensive on the ground and its possible consequences for hostages.

"We are not the ones that have to give the solutions," said Mor Raviv when asked about the issue.

More than 1,400 people were killed on Israeli territory on October 7 by Hamas militants, according to Israeli authorities.

In the Gaza Strip, more than 7,000 people, including nearly 3,000 children, have been killed in the Israeli army's relentless retaliatory bombing, the health ministry of the Hamas-controlled Palestinian territory said.

The military wing of Hamas estimated on Thursday that "almost 50" Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip had been killed by Israeli strikes, a claim that could not be independently verified.

al/mig/ybl/gw/giv
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, meets with families of hostages held by Hamas at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. Family members spoke out at a news conference hosted by Rep Steny Hoyer, D-Md., Thursday urging the United States to do everything possible to bring the hostages home. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- On Capitol Hill Thursday families of Israeli hostages held in Gaza spoke out during a Capitol Hill press conference hosted by Rep. Steny Hoyer, D-Md.

"The taking of hostages is a crime. In international law and the law of the United States and the law of Israel. Unfortunately there is no law in Gaza," Hoyer said as he introduced some family members of hostages. "And so we are gathered here with families who have sustained a criminal act, taking people hostage. These families of hostages are in great pain. We must excise the cancer on the body politic that is called Hamas."

Hoyer said Congress is committed to leaving no hostage behind.

Rudy Chen's son Itay Chen was abducted by Hamas.

"We have one agenda only by coming here. We represent about 220 hostages from 35 different nationalities," Chen said. "We demand not only the U.S. but all of the international community put as its highest agenda, No. 1 agenda, bringing the hostages back home."

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., hosted a press conference Thursday on Capitol Hill featuring family members of Israeli hostages held in Gaza by Hamas. Hoyer said "We must excise the cancer on the body politic that is called Hamas." Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

He gave Rep. Hoyer a special dog tag to wear to remember the hostages. Hoyer put it on and hugged Chen at the podium.

"We live in this bizarre universe of not knowing if our loved one is alive, being taken care of. Where do they eat, where do they sleep," Chen added.

Noam Peri's father, Chaim Peri, was taken by Hamas.

"I got a text message from my mother saying dad has been kidnapped by terrorists. I'm alone in the safe room, can't talk. I never imagined in my life getting this message and I'm sure that you can't either," Peri said.

She said there are no words that can adequately describe the horrors of burning homes, burning families alive as Hamas attacked Israeli civilians.

"I urge you, the people of the United States, to stand by your congressmen and your senators and send them your support," Peri said. "The United States is the only one who can lead this international effort to make our loved ones come back safely."

She said she feels the overwhelming support and understanding and willingness to take leadership on this humanitarian crisis to get all the hostages back.
MADRID (Reuters) - Family members of people taken hostage by Hamas after their Oct. 7 attack on Israel are conducting a tour of Europe to maintain the focus on the plight of their loved ones and urge the world to help recover them.

The relatives addressed the media on Wednesday in Paris and Rome, where they also met Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni . On Thursday another group spoke to media in Madrid as well as meeting Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares.

A spokesman for the Israeli civil society groups that organised the tour in conjunction with the Israeli foreign ministry said the trips were funded by private contributions and events would also take place in Brussels, Copenhagen, The Hague, Vienna and Berlin in the coming days.

In Madrid, the families urged the government to encourage the few countries in direct contact with Hamas to press for the hostages' release.

Yulie Ben-Ami whose parents Ohad and Raz were kidnapped in Beeri Kibbutz in southern Israel, said they were in grave danger but had done "nothing wrong".

"There are children, old people over 80. They shouldn't be suffering this, they are not to blame," she said.

Some 222 people aged from 9 months to 85 years were taken hostage after the attack in which Hamas killed 1,400 people.

The hostages are believed to be hidden in the Gaza Strip, possibly in a warren of tunnels Hamas has built there.

Health officials in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip said more than 7,000 people have been killed since Israel began its bombing campaign in response.

Hamas said on Thursday that an estimated 50 Hamas-held captives have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza. Reuters was not able to verify the numbers.

On Thursday, Israel said its ground forces made a push into Gaza overnight in preparation for a ground invasion.

Families of some hostages have warned such a move could put them in further danger.

Merav Mor Raviv, whose uncle, aunt, cousin and her nine-year-old son were kidnapped, said she had no view on how the hostages should be recovered: "We are not political or diplomats.

"I'm not the one who has to give the world the solution. I came here to tell the truth, not all the other things that Hamas shows you on television."

Maayan Sigal-Koren, whose mother and her partner were kidnapped in Nir Yitzhak along with three other relatives, said: "I want my mother back, I want her back now, and I don't care about anything else."

Naama Weinberg's cousin Itai Svirsky was kidnapped while his parents were killed. She questioned why the Red Cross had not visited the hostages in the Gaza Strip to check on their wellbeing, provide elderly people with medication and babies with nappies and formula.

"The world has seen the horrible things that Hamas has done, they were all streamed live on Facebook, Telegram," she said.

"I'm sad for any victim that is hurt from both sides. It should just stop immediately."

(Reporting by Aislinn Laing, Guillermo Martinez and Elena Rodriguez; Editing by Giles Elgood)
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) shakes hands with Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), the Republican candidate, after voting for Johnson during the election for House speaker on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times)

WASHINGTON  In the end, Republican hard-liners got their man.

He wasnt the person whom the most extreme element of House Republicans really wanted  that was Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, the godfather of the far right in the House who ultimately was too toxic to ascend to the top post and fell short.

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But new Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a man unknown to most Americans, is a second choice the far right can enthusiastically embrace. He shares the deeply conservative ideology of his mentor Jordan but lacks the confrontational profile or hard-edge style of the Ohioan. In fact, he has little profile at all.

Johnson, a second-tier member of the House leadership first elected in 2016, is the most obscure lawmaker to rise to the helm of the House since Dennis Hastert of Illinois was plucked from near the backbenches in 1998 to become speaker after Rep. Tom DeLay, that periods version of Jordan, realized he could not succeed Newt Gingrich.

But Hastert, who later was disgraced in a sexual abuse scandal, had developed a reputation for spearheading health care legislation. If Johnson has a reputation at all, it is as a savvy and smooth constitutional lawyer who wrote a brief offering a legal justification for trying to overturn the 2020 election and served as a defender of President Donald Trump against impeachment.

Republicans see the fact that he is virtually unknown outside his Louisiana district as an advantage, giving him a chance to introduce himself to the public on his own terms.

But there should be no mistaking his extremely conservative views on social issues such as abortion rights and same-sex marriage, which Democrats can be expected to aggressively highlight in their efforts to tie more mainstream House Republicans to their new leader in the Democrats push to regain control of the chamber.

He is the first head of the arch-conservative Republican Study Committee to take the speakers gavel, and though he is not a member of the far-right Freedom Caucus, he shares many of the groups positions. His strong standing on the right was underscored minutes after his nomination Tuesday night. Johnson was surrounded by some of the most extreme House Republicans, who shouted down questions about his effort to overturn the election and other policy issues, with one lawmaker, Rep. Virginia Foxx of North Carolina, shouting at reporters to shut up.

Johnson is fundamentally more conservative than the ousted speaker, Kevin McCarthy, who despite his frequent partisan attacks realized he needed to cut deals with Democrats to keep the government solvent and operating. He twice this year passed critical legislation with Democratic votes  ultimately sparking the coup that led to his downfall.

Whether Johnson shares that same bipartisan imperative with a mid-November deadline looming for keeping the government open will become clear in the coming weeks. He will need to navigate his way out of a spending impasse that has split House Republicans before he even gets to negotiations with the White House and Senate leaders who now find themselves dealing with an unknown and untested new partner.

On the plus side for the new speaker, Johnson is certain to enjoy a honeymoon period with those on the right who had a deep distrust of McCarthy and feared he would work with Democrats, as he ultimately did. They are likely to grant him considerable leeway in figuring out the spending morass with just a few weeks remaining before the government runs out of money.

Johnson has proposed the idea of a lengthy stopgap spending bill to allow the House to take up its own funding measures, but they have been snarled by bitter Republican feuds, and it is uncertain whether the House can approve them.

Johnson was far from the first choice of his own colleagues. He was something of a desperation candidate as House Republicans entered a fourth week without a speaker, leaving the institution paralyzed and Republicans looking inept. Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota, the No. 3 House Republican, defeated him Tuesday morning in an internal vote for the speaker nomination  an outcome that traditionally would have led to Emmers being elected speaker on the House floor.

But the old rules are gone. Hard-right conservatives quickly went to work to deny Emmer any chance of obtaining the necessary votes on the floor and forced him to withdraw in just four hours. That opened the door to a second round of nominations. Again, Johnson did not initially win a majority but finally prevailed after multiple rounds of voting.

Some more mainstream Republicans had stood against Jordan because they believed his allies had been underhanded in their sabotage of Rep. Steve Scalise of Louisiana, who defeated Jordan in a vote for the speaker nomination. They vowed that Jordan would never be rewarded for such tactics. But with the party becoming a national laughingstock because of its inability to find a leader, no effort to deny Johnson surfaced, and Republicans rallied to Johnsons side, even though he had initially lost to Emmer.

The episode proved anew to hard-right Republicans that if they are willing to break party norms and ignore their own majoritys position, they can still prevail  an outcome that Johnson might later find does not always work in his favor as speaker of the whole House.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
A father-and-son duo in Buffalo, New York has opened the first Black family-owned UPS store in the region.

Dr. Uzo Ihenko and his son, Kelechi Chillis-Ihenko, opened the store earlier in October. Prior to their UPS opening, many East Buffalo residents had to travel far for services like shipping, printing and packaging.

Our vision for the store is just making this a centerpiece for the community. You knowtheres not a lot of places like this around here so people have to travel way out there, way out of the community so we want to bring people back, Kelechi said in an interview with WGRZ.

Kelechi, who grew up in Buffalo and graduated with an MBA, made the conscious decision to stay in his hometown and serve his community.

Growing up in Buffalo theres always a lack of essential services and things like that and Ive experienced that growing up so being the one to fill that need is awesome, Kelechi told WKBW.

I wanted to be able to show the community the hard work and effort of what weve been doing, Uzo told WGRZ. And in order to do that you got to show some practical improvements.

The new UPS location offers shipping, delivery, printing and fingerprinting services.

A lot of hospitals they send people here for fingerprinting so if you want to do any investigative work in terms of background information right here is where its done, Uzo said in an interview with WKBW.

Local vendors can also sell their own products at the store. Additionally, business owners can rent office space in the building. In the back part of the building, the father and son plan to have apartments for rent.

Its going to be workforce apartments so its affordable for people to live here, Kelechi said to WKBW. And were going to have office space and potentially a coworking space for other entrepreneurs to come to the building and grow their businesses.

The key to a successful business, according to the father-and-son duo, is to put people first.

If youre not people first the people arent going to support you, Kelechi said. So you want to have anything you do be people-focused so that will help you be successful in business.

They hope to keep the business going for the coming generations.

I told them were here to stay, Uzo said. Were part of you and were here.
Federal law enforcement officials warned on Wednesday that Israels ongoing war with Palestinian militants could encourage more hate crimes in the U.S.

In a public service announcement released Wednesday night, the Federal Bureau of Investigation said it has seen an increase in reports of threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities and institutions and said that recent events have increased the possibility of potential attacks against individuals and institutions in response to developments in the Middle East.

The FBI, joined by the Department of Homeland Security, also warned that foreign actors, including Iranian media outlets and Islamic jihadist groups Al-Qaida and ISIS, were using the conflict to stoke divisions and call for violent attacks in the U.S. and other Western countries.

ISIS figures, the release notes, in particular have called on attacks against the Jewish presence all over the world ... especially Jewish neighborhoods in America and Europe and specifically have singled out Jewish temples, nightclubs, "economic interests" and Jewish and Crusader embassies.

The warning from the countrys top law enforcement agencies comes on the heels of several high-profile incidents of antisemitic and Islamophobic violence against Jews and Muslims in the United States, which many attribute to the ongoing conflict in Israel.

In a surprise attack on Oct. 7, Hamas militants stormed out of the Gaza Strip, killing more than 1,200 Israelis and abducting dozens more, while firing rockets at cities including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Israel has since hit back by commencing a siege of Gaza and firing its own barrage of retaliatory missiles, killing thousands. The U.S. has publicly pledged to support Israel as it seeks to militarily defeat Hamas and end its rule over the Gaza Strip.

On Oct. 14, a man repeatedly stabbed a 6-year-old Palestinian boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, in Plainfield, Ill. The murder, which authorities have labeled an anti-Muslim hate crime, sparked outrage and grief among Muslim Americans.

Meanwhile, the Anti-Defamation League said Wednesday that reported incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault increased by 388 percent since the outbreak of the war in Israel.

Biden has addressed antisemitic and Islamophobic violence since the war began, denouncing both antisemitism and Islamophobia during an Oval Office speech last week. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also said in an Oct. 12 briefing that the entire BidenHarris administration is committed to doing all we can to protect against antisemitism and other forms of hate.

Still, the Biden administration has been criticized by both Jewish and Muslim community leaders for its response to the incidents. In particular, Biden has been criticized for not emphasizing enough that Palestinians are not all aligned with Hamas.

Meanwhile, on Monday, Jean-Pierre was criticized for saying the White House had not seen any credible threats, when asked about the administrations level of concern about increasing antisemitism. She then went on to condemn hate-fueled attacks against Muslim and Arab Americans.

After facing pushback from Jewish Democrats, Jean-Pierre clarified her remarks on Tuesday, saying there is no place for antisemitism. Full stop. Period. This is important to the president. This is important for me personally and to everyone in the administration."

We must all do our part and forcefully  forcefully speak out against antisemitism, and we must ensure there is no place for hate in America  not against Jews, not against Muslims, not against Arab Americans, not against Palestinian Americans, not against anyone, Jean-Pierre continued.
The ramp-up to cold and flu season is a bad time for consumers to learn that some of their most trusted go-to products don't actually work. An advisory committee to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration concluded unanimously in September 2023 that phenylephrine  an active ingredient found in popular over-the-counter cough and cold products such as Sudafed PE, Theraflu and NyQuil Severe Cold and Flu  works no better than a placebo when taken orally. The 2023 FDA advisory panel met to review growing evidence that oral phenylephrine is an ineffective treatment for nasal congestion.

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The Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that it is gathering information about the death of a young woman with a heart condition who a lawsuit alleges died after she consumed a highly caffeinated lemonade from Panera Bread.

Sarah Katz, 21, an Ivy League student, died in September 2022 after she drank Paneras Charged Lemonade, a large cup of which contains more caffeine than a standard can of Red Bull and Monster energy drinks combined, according to a lawsuit filed by her family earlier this week.

The lawsuit, which was first reported by NBC News, calls the beverage a dangerous energy drink and alleges that Panera failed to properly warn consumers about its ingredients. In addition to caffeine, it has guarana extract, another stimulant, and the large size contains the equivalent of almost 30 teaspoonfuls of sugar.

The FDA is saddened to hear of the passing of a consumer and as always, takes seriously reports of illnesses or injury from regulated products. At this point, we are gathering information about this event, an FDA spokesperson said in a statement provided exclusively to NBC News.

The agency added that it monitors the marketplace of FDA-regulated products and takes action as appropriate, including collaborating with the Federal Trade Commission regarding marketing claims.

Sarah Katz. (Courtesy Katz family)

The Federal Trade Commission wrote in an email that it does not comment on allegations against companies or consumer complaints or confirm nor deny the existence of investigations.

Panera, which is headquartered in St. Louis, Missouri, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the FDAs statement.

Katz, a University of Pennsylvania student who had taught CPR in underserved communities and had been a research assistant at a childrens hospital, had a heart condition called long QT syndrome type 1 and avoided energy drinks based on her doctors recommendation, according to the legal complaint filed Monday in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.

In a statement Monday afternoon, a Panera spokesperson said: We were very saddened to learn this morning about the tragic passing of Sarah Katz, and our hearts go out to her family. At Panera, we strongly believe in transparency around our ingredients. We will work quickly to thoroughly investigate this matter.

The suit said that Katz bought the Charged Lemonade from a Panera location in Philadelphia on Sept. 10, 2022. She went into cardiac arrest hours later, said Victoria Rose Conroy, her roommate and friend.

She was very, very vigilant about what she needed to do to keep herself safe, Conroy said. I guarantee if Sarah had known how much caffeine this was, she never would have touched it with a 10-foot pole.

On its website, Panera refers to Charged Lemonade as the ultimate energy drink, while in-store, the legal complaint says, the Charged Lemonade was offered side-by-side with all of Paneras non-caffeinated and/or less caffeinated drinks. Photos of the menu and the beverage dispensers in the store included in the wrongful death lawsuit show it was advertised as plant-based and clean, containing as much caffeine as the restaurants dark roast coffee.

But at 390 milligrams, the large Charged Lemonade has more caffeine in total than any size of the companys dark roast coffee, the complaint adds  numbers that appear to line up with the nutrition facts on Paneras website. Katz had bought the large cup, which is 30 fluid ounces, according to Elizabeth Crawford, a partner at the Philadelphia-based law firm Kline & Specter, PC who is representing Katzs family.

The beverage dispenser listed the amount of caffeine in the drink, Crawford said, but it did not put the 390 milligrams of caffeine into context. According to the FDA, healthy adults can safely consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily.

Crawford said Katzs parents have made it their mission to raise awareness about the drinks ingredients.

If the FDA is going to look into this, then the FDA may make changes, and if it prevents this from happening to someone else, then the family is going to feel like theyve done the right thing here, she said in a phone interview Wednesday. That is the only thing that I think is getting them through day in and day out, is knowing that they are saving lives.

Others say they have had adverse reactions to the Charged Lemonade too. Lisa McAllister, 67, has Type 2 diabetes and said she had heart palpitations after she bought a Charged Lemonade last year.

I knew it had an elevated amount of caffeine. Its just, I didnt think it had that much caffeine in it, said McAllister, of Clear Spring, Maryland. Usually when something has those beyond-normal ranges, theres a sign posted.

She said her heart started racing and she started feeling fluttery after she sipped the drink.

It made me think I was having a heart attack, and it scared me, McAllister said.

Katz was diagnosed with long QT syndrome at age 5 and controlled it with medication and regular doctor visits, Crawford said. Long QT is a disorder of the hearts electrical system that can cause abnormal heart rhythms as a result of exercise or stress, according to the American Heart Association.

The lawsuit says Katz bought an Unlimited Sip Club membership from Panera, which allows customers to pay a fee for unlimited drinks, about a week and a half before she died. Conroy said Katz had bought at least one other Charged Lemonade in the days before her cardiac arrest and on the day of her death, bought a Charged Lemonade before collapsing several hours later.

Crawford said she hoped the FDA would examine the safety of Paneras Charged Lemonade, especially given that it is included in the restaurants Unlimited Sip Club drinks.

Is the FDA going to let an establishment have a drink that has 390 milligrams, and then people can get unlimited refills of it? I mean, that seems crazy, she said. Do the math.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The Food and Drug Administration issued a safety advisory to restaurants and retailers in six states, warning that a recent batch of oysters may be contaminated.

In an advisory issued Oct. 20, the FDA said its Canadian counterpart, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), tested oysters harvested by Future Seafoods, Inc. and found salmonella and E. coli.

The oysters were harvested on Oct. 10 and were sold to establishments in Florida, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Pennsylvania and Virginia. Future Seafoods, Inc. has not issued a recall, but restaurants are advised to dispose of the oysters, and consumers are urged not to eat them.

The FDA is awaiting further information on distribution of the oysters harvested and will continue to monitor the investigation and provide assistance to state authorities as needed, the FDA safety advisory stated.

The CFIA is looking into what caused the oysters to become contaminated.

Symptoms of salmonella infection

Food contaminated with salmonella and E. coli may look and taste normal, but the FDA warns it can cause serious illness, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

In most people infected with salmonella, symptoms begin to appear in about 12 to 72 hours. The resulting illness, known as salmonellosis, causes diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. In severe cases, people can develop high fever, aches, headaches, lethargy, a rash or blood in the urine or stool, which requires medical attention.

Im coming for you: Widow demands justice after Tampa hit-and-run that was caught on camera

Salmonellosis usually lasts four to seven days, and most people recover without treatment, according to the FDA.

Symptoms of E. coli infection

E. coli and salmonella infection produce similar symptoms, according to the FDA, but some types of E. coli bacteria can also cause a life-threatening infection.

After eating contaminated food, symptoms could appear anywhere from a few days to as many as nine days later. Generally, those infected with E. coli experience severe stomach cramps, diarrhea, fever, nausea and vomiting.

According to the FDA, severe infections can cause bloody diarrhea and life-threatening conditions, such as kidney failure or the development of high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease and neurologic problems. Other infections may cause no symptoms or may resolve without treatment in five to seven days.

Because symptoms range from nausea to life-threatening illness, the FDA urges anyone who suspects they may have been infected with E. coli to talk to their doctor. Children under the age of 5, adults older than 65, and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to severe illness.

Anyone who believes they got sick after eating contaminated food at a restaurant is asked to file a complaint with the FDA and report the illness as an adverse event.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
10:30 p.m. Update:

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement of investigating after a Florida Highway Patrol Trooper shot a suspect following a pursuit in Flagler County.

Troopers said that around 5:40 p.m. an FHP trooper attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the Palm Coast area.

The driver of the vehicle fled, causing the troopers to pursue the suspect.

After a brief pursuit, the suspect crashed the vehicle, and while the trooper was attempting to apprehend the female suspect, the trooper fired his gun hitting the suspect,

The injured suspect transported to the hospital.

The Trooper, nor the other person in the vehicle, were not injured in the incident.

The investigation has been turned over to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) as standard practice for police involved shootings.

Original Story:

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement of investigating an officer-involved shooting in Flagler County, according to deputies.

The shooting happened around 6:30 p.m. at the Hammock Beach Apartments and Resort on Ocean Crest Drive and 16th Road in Palm Coast.

 WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

The Flagler County Sheriffs Office has roads around the crime scene shut down while the investigation continues.

Channel 9 has a crew at the scene and will bring the latest information when it becomes available.

Read: Mistrial declared in resentencing trial of Bessman Okafor, who murdered 19-year-old Alex Zaldavar

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
GRAND CHUTE - A lawsuit filed by Town Supervisor Ron Wolff and his wife, Karri Wolff, alleging their civil rights were violated during the execution of a March 2022 search warrant was dismissed in federal court.

U.S. District Judge William Conley ruled that the Wolffs' claims against Jay Yerges, a special agent with the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, are barred by the doctrine of qualified immunity.

Qualified immunity shields government officials from liability so long as their conduct didn't violate clearly established statutory or constitutional rights.

The Post-Crescent called Ron Wolff to discuss the ruling. He previously said he would talk about the case once it was settled.

"I have nothing to say," he said before hanging up.

What led up to the lawsuit?

The lawsuit was filed after DCI agents and Outagamie County sheriff's deputies executed the search warrant on Wolff, a residence in Grand Chute, a residence in Nichols and Lakeshore Cleaners Inc., which was a landscape business Wolff owned.

The search was related to the state's investigation into Wolff's residency. It sought evidence of misconduct in public office, which is a felony. Documents, laptops and a cellphone were among the property seized during the raid.

The Wolffs alleged the search warrant was overly broad and was executed in an unreasonable manner, including the use of excessive force.

Yerges and others involved denied they violated the Wolffs' constitutional rights.

Ron Wolff was charged with a felony in July. Prosecutors alleged Wolff had a private interest in a public contract after Lakeshore Cleaners landed a $26,865 contract with Grand Chute while he was in office. The criminal complaint was signed by Yerges.

Wolff pleaded not guilty. The case is pending in Outagamie County Circuit Court.

More: Grand Chute passes on finalists, restarts recruitment for new town administrator

Judge says search warrant was 'surprisingly broad'

The March 2022 search warrant sought evidence of possible misconduct in office dating to April 6, 2021.

It authorized the seizure of computers, cellphones, digital devices, mass storage devices, user names, access codes and passwords owned, used or possessed by Wolff as well as "other items which may constitute evidence of crimes relating to misconduct in public office."

"The court agrees (with the plaintiffs) that the warrant is surprisingly broad, and it is troubled by the breadth of the categories of items, coupled with the fact that it occurred across three properties, with at least 10 officers involved in the search," Conley wrote in his decision.

Nevertheless, Conley determined Yerges is entitled to qualified immunity. He noted Yerges' search warrant was reviewed and approved by the district attorney and a state court judge.

Conley said the threshold for overcoming qualified immunity "is particularly high in cases in which a search warrant was issued by a judicial commissioner who has not been shown to have been biased."

More: Grand Chute board members deny former administrator Jim March was wrongfully fired

Qualified immunity also applies to execution of warrant

The Wolffs argued Yerges should have done more to prepare the officers conducting the search to prevent the seizure of items falling outside the scope of the warrant. Items they believed should not have been taken include a credit card, addresses of family and friends, dental records and printed emails about a family reunion and a baby shower.

Conley said Yerges likewise is entitled to qualified immunity in the execution of the search warrant.

"Certainly, Yerges may have been able to take additional steps to prepare the agents involved in the search, such as by providing specific examples of the types of documents and items that fell within or outside the scope of the warrant," Conley wrote. "However, plaintiffs have once again failed to identify any case requiring defendant Yerges to do more 'with obvious clarity' than what he did in his role as supervisor of the search."

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM: Our subscribers make this coverage possible. Click to see The Post-Crescent's special offers at postcrescent.com/subscribe and download our app on the App Store or Google Play.

Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DukeBehnke.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Grand Chute Supervisor Ron Wolff's lawsuit filed after raid dismissed
A federal judge on Thursday ordered Georgia to draw new congressional and state legislative maps, ruling that state legislators improperly diluted the political power of Black voters in establishing those boundaries following the 2020 census.

The ruling by US District Judge Steve Jones could result in Democrats securing an additional seat in the US House from Georgia. Republicans currently hold nine slots in the states 14-member congressional delegation.

The Peach State litigation is among several legal and political fights underway in nearly a dozen states that could determine whether the GOP retains its narrow majority in the US House after next years elections.

In his ruling, Jones said Georgias Republican-controlled legislature had violated the Voting Rights Act, the nations landmark civil rights law, in establishing district lines.

The Court commends Georgia for the great strides that it has made to increase the political opportunities of Black voters in the 58 years since the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Jones wrote. Despite these great gains, the Court determines that in certain areas of the State, the political process is not equally open to Black voters.

He noted that minorities accounted for all of the states population growth in the past decade but said that the number of majority-Black congressional and legislative districts remained the same.

Jones, who set a December 8 deadline for state lawmakers to craft new maps, ordered the legislature to draw an additional majority-Black congressional district in the western part of the Atlanta metro area, along with creating two more state Senate districts and five additional state House districts with Black majorities.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp on Thursday called a November 29 special session for lawmakers to work on new maps and a handful of other issues.

Democrats and voting rights groups immediately hailed Jones decision.

US Rep. Nikema Williams, the chairwoman of the Democratic Party of Georgia, called the ruling a resounding victory for democracy.

Republicans knew they couldnt win on their ideas, so they resorted to redrawing the maps in their favor instead, she said in a statement. Todays decision confirms what Georgia Democrats already knew: Georgia Republicans attempts to hold onto power via voter suppression and racial gerrymandering will not stand.

Josh McKoon, the chairman of the state GOP, cast the decision as a naked power grab by partisan Democratic allies on the federal bench.

Jones was nominated by former President Barack Obama, joining the bench in 2011.

It is simply outrageous that one far-left federal judge is invalidating the will of the elected representatives of the people of Georgia who drew fair maps in conformity with longstanding legal principles, McKoon said in the a statement posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

A spokesperson for Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr  whose office has defended the legislatures maps in court  said officials were reviewing Jones order.

The Georgia decision comes one day after the Republican-controlled legislature in North Carolina approved a congressional map that could help the GOP flip at least three US House seats now held by Democrats.

Legal fights over other congressional maps are pending across the country, from New York to Utah.

This story has been updated with additional information.

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A federal judge in Phoenix has cleared the way for the first trial in the U.S. court system to hold the U.S. government liable for monetary damages over its policy of forcibly separating children from their parents along the border.

The cases, known as A.P.F. v. United States and C.M. v. United States, are being litigated jointly and are two of nearly 40 lawsuits making their way through the legal system. More cases are expected. If they all reach trial, the U.S. government could be on the hook for millions of dollars in damages.

The lawsuits seek financial compensation for the separated families under the U.S. Federal Tort Claims Act. The cases are separate from a settlement agreement that the U.S. government reached earlier this month with attorneys representing a class action lawsuit out of San Diego. Those talks did not include monetary compensation for the separated families.

US-Mexico border: Border Patrol's Tucson Sector busiest for third straight month

Attorneys in the C.M. lawsuit represent five mothers separated from their children near Yuma in May 2018, while the A.P.F. case is on behalf of six fathers separated from their children near Yuma between November 2017 and May 2018.

On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton in Phoenix denied a motion filed by U.S. Department of Justice attorneys claiming immunity and seeking the dismissal of the two lawsuits based on the discretionary authority that shields the U.S. government and its employees from lawsuits because of actions tied to official policymaking and the implementation of a "zero tolerance policy" in 2018 and a pilot program in 2017.

Bolton cleared the last remaining hurdles before moving the two cases to a bench trial, where the judge would decide if and how much money each family would receive. Unless the U.S. government settles, the two lawsuits would be the first of 39 family separation lawsuits filed so far to reach trial level.

In her 32-page order, Bolton denied granting the U.S. government and its employees immunity stating that the forced separations along the Arizona-Mexico border "unquestionably interfered with Plaintiffs right to family integrity."

Border Patrol: 2 agents critically injured after truck crashes into checkpoint near Yuma

At the core of her decision, according to court records, was evidence showing that the leadership at the Department of Homeland Security planned to separate parents from their children regardless of whether the parents were prosecuted under a "zero tolerance policy" on illegal border crossings, and without a clear plan to establish contact or reunite them after.

"This raises genuine issues of fact whether" DHS leadership implemented the family separations "with deliberate indifference to the harm it would cause" the parents and children, Bolton concluded.

She also found that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement employees in Yuma who carried out the separations were not shielded from liability in the lawsuits because they "pre-emptively designated" separated children as unaccompanied minors solely because of the suspicion that parents would be prosecuted. But in fact, none of the parents in these two cases faced criminal charges.

Opinion: Wise up, Latinos: Biden is just using us as pawns to get war funding

While the timeline for a potential bench trial is unclear, it raises once again the possibility of having the administration of President Joe Biden having to defend the family separations in court despite their repeated condemnation of the policy.

"It is unconscionable that the administration continues to defend these prior practices in court and force the families to relive their traumatic experiences yet again," Jim Knoepp, the senior supervising attorney for the Southern Poverty Law Center, said in a statement. The group is litigating the cases with the firms Covington & Burling LLP and Coppersmith Brockelman PLC.

In the same order, Bolton also agreed that the U.S. government owed a duty of care to separated families, but declined to say whether the U.S. had breached its duty. It also denied a motion for summary judgment filed by attorneys representing the families claiming that the U.S. government intentionally inflicted emotional distress on them. Those issues will have to be decided at the trial.

Of the 39 family separation lawsuits filed under the Federal Tort Claims Act to date, 14 of the separations took place along Arizona's border with Mexico. And 11 of the cases were filed in federal courts in Arizona. There are about 800 additional pending claims that have not moved to the lawsuit stage.

Last week, the Biden administration reached a separate settlement that, if approved by a federal judge in San Diego, would end a class-action lawsuit that had forced the U.S. government to begin reuniting parents separated from their children at the U.S.-Mexico border.

The agreement, announced on Oct. 16, would bar the U.S. government from implementing similar policies in the future. It would also grant approximately 4,400 separated families an easier path to asylum and permission to work in the United States, as well as medical, legal and housing benefits.

Have any news tips or story ideas about immigration in the Southwest? Reach the reporter at rafael.carranza@arizonarepublic.com, or follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @RafaelCarranza.

Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix judge clears path for first trial over family separations
A federal judge ruled on Thursday that Georgias redrawn congressional maps violate a section of the Voting Rights Act.

The Georgia General Assembly approved the maps back in 2021 and were signed by Gov. Brian Kemp . The maps shifted the Republican edge from 8-6 to 9-5.

A series of lawsuits were filed against the state of Georgia arguing that the redrawn maps illegally discriminate against minorities and take away their voting power.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Governor Brian Kemp issued a proclamation on Thursday afternoon calling for a special session of the Georgia General Assembly on Nov. 29 to revisit laws relating to the states districts.

Today was a victory for the voters not just of Georgia, but of the country, Rep. Nikema Williams said.

Channel 2s Richard Elliot was there in 2021 when the Republican-controlled General Assembly passed the new maps. Republican State Senator John Kennedy assured Elliot that the current maps are good.

We got a good map here. Its going to be good for the state, good for the citizens, he said.

RELATED STORIES:

On Thursday, U.S. District Judge Steve Jones ruled that the maps did violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The Georgia General Assembly now has until December 8, 2023 to enact new maps that comply with the Voting Rights Act.

The Court is confident that the General Assembly can accomplish its task by DECEMBER 8, 2023: the General Assembly enacted the Plans quickly in 2021; the Legislature has been on notice since at least the time that this litigation was commenced nearly 22 months ago that new maps might be necessary; the General Assembly already has access to an experienced cartographer; and the General Assembly has an illustrative remedial plan to consult, Jones wrote in his conclusion.

Read the judges full ruling below:

Federal judge rules Georgias new district maps violated Section 2 of Voting Rights Act by WSB-TV Assignment Desk on Scribd

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Georgia State University constitutional law professor Anthony Michael Kreis says the judge is ordering the maps to be redrawn.

The voting power for Black voters has been diluted even though the number of Black voters in the state of Georgia has increased, Kreis explained.

Elliot reached out for comments from the offices of Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Georgia Speaker of the House Jon Burns and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, but did not hear back.




FILE - State Sen. John Kennedy, R-Macon, presents the newly-drawn congressional maps in the Senate Chambers during a special session at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta, Friday, Nov. 19, 2021. A federal judge ruled Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, that some of Georgia's congressional, state Senate and state House districts were drawn in a racially discriminatory manner, ordering the state to draw an additional Black-majority congressional district. (Hyosub Shin/Atlanta Journal-Constitution via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

ATLANTA (AP)  A federal judge ruled Thursday that some of Georgia's congressional, state Senate and state House districts were drawn in a racially discriminatory manner, ordering the state to draw an additional Black-majority congressional district.

U.S. District Judge Steve Jones, in a 516-page order, also ordered the state to draw two new Black-majority districts in Georgia's 56-member state Senate and five new Black-majority districts in its 180-member state House.

Jones ordered Georgias Republican majority General Assembly and governor to fix the maps by Dec. 8, saying he would redaw districts if lawmakers did not. Hours after the ruling, Gov. Brian Kemp issued a call for a special session to begin Nov. 29 to redraw congressional and legislative districts, although a spokesperson for the governor said that is a scheduling decision and doesn't mean the Republican opposes an appeal.

Jones ruling follows an eight-day September trial in which the plaintiffs argued that Black voters are still fighting opposition from white voters and need federal help to get a fair shot, while the state argued court intervention on behalf of Black voters wasnt needed.

Georgia has made great strides since 1965 toward equality in voting, Jones wrote. However, the evidence before this court shows that Georgia has not reached the point where the political process has equal openness and equal opportunity for everyone.

The Georgia case is part of a wave of litigation after the U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year stood behind its interpretation of the Voting Rights Act, rejecting a challenge to the law by Alabama.

Courts in Alabama and Florida ruled recently that Republican-led legislatures had unfairly diluted the voting power of Black residents. Legal challenges to congressional districts are also ongoing in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Mexico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah.

Jones wrote that he would not allow the 2024 elections to be conducted using districts he has found to be unlawful. That would require a special session, as lawmakers arent scheduled to meet again until January.

Jones order explicitly anticipates an appeal by the state, and such an appeal could slow down that schedule, and maybe even let the maps be used again next year. The U.S. Supreme Court has previously ruled that judges shouldn't require changes to districts too close to an election.

A spokesperson for Republican Attorney General Chris Carr, whose office defended the plans in court, declined comment, saying lawyers were still reading the ruling. Other Republicans want to keep fighting.

The majority party went to great lengths to draw maps that were legal, fair, compact, and kept communities of interest together, state Senate Republicans led by Majority Leader Steve Gooch of Dahlonega said in a statement. Obviously we strongly disagree with the ruling and expect that all legal options will be explored to maintain the maps as passed by the legislature.

A new map could shift one of Georgias 14 congressional seats from Republican to Democratic control. GOP lawmakers redrew the congressional map from an 8-6 Republican majority to a 9-5 Republican majority in 2021. Jones ruled that lawmakers could not eliminate minority opportunity districts elsewhere when they redraw maps.

I applaud the district court's decision ordering Georgia to draw maps compliant with the Voting Rights Act, said state Senate Minority Leader Gloria Butler, a Stone Mountain Democrat. We are eager to help pass fairer maps that comply with federal law.

Orders to draw new legislative districts could narrow Republican majorities in the state House, where the GOP has a 102-78 edge, and in the state Senate, with a 33-23 edge. But on their own, those changes are unlikely to lead to a Democratic takeover.

Jones wrote that he conducted a thorough and sifting review of the evidence in the case before concluding that Georgia violated the Voting Rights Act in enacting the current congressional and legislative maps.

The judge wrote that despite the fact that all of the states population increase between 2010 and 2020 was attributable to growth among non-white populations, the number of congressional and state Senate districts with a Black majority remained the same.

That echoed a key contention of the plaintiffs, as one of their lawyers noted after the ruling.

In 2021, the General Assembly ignored Georgias diversification over the last decade and enacted a state legislative map that demonstrably diluted the voting strength of Black voters, Rahul Garabadu, an American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia attorney, said in a statement. "Todays decision charts a path to correct that grave injustice before the 2024 election cycle.

Jones wrote in a footnote that his order in no way states or implies that the General Assembly or Georgia Republicans are racist. The Voting Rights Act does not require him to find that the challenged maps were passed to discriminate against Black voters or that the Legislature is racist, he wrote. Nothing in this order should be construed to indicate otherwise.
Federal prosecutors filed a flurry of motions Wednesday night in the election interference case against Donald Trump , arguing against the former president's efforts to extend a pause on a gag order and his attempts to subpoena what he claims are "missing" House Jan. 6 committee records.

In one of the filings, special counsel Jack Smiths office said it opposed extending a freeze on the gag order U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan of Washington, D.C., initially imposed on Trump. She temporarily lifted the gag order last week to give the parties more time to brief her on Trump's request to keep the order on hold while he appeals it.

Prosecutors argued Wednesday that Trump has failed to show either a substantial likelihood of success on the merits, or that the public interest weighs in favor of a stay.

They highlighted Trumps prejudicial and threatening posts on Truth Social shortly after ABC News cited multiple sources saying former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows had testified in the case in exchange for an immunity deal.

In one post, Trump wrote: Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I dont think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?

Prosecutors argued that Trump was targeting a known witness in this case in an attempt to influence and intimidate him and requested that the stay on the gag order be lifted and modified to protect witnesses from attacks.

NBC News has not confirmed the ABC News report. Reached for comment Tuesday, Meadows attorney George Terwilliger said: I told ABC that their story was largely inaccurate. People will have to judge for themselves the decision to run it anyway.

In a separate filing Wednesday night, prosecutors opposed Trump's attempts to subpoena House records in connection with the congressional investigation into the Jan. 6 riot.

Specifically, they called the subpoena effort a "fishing expedition" and asked Chutkan to deny his motion seeking archived materials from the probe from various people and entities.

The defendants motion is wholly unnecessary: the Government already provided the defendant in discovery the Select Committee records that he identifies with any specificity, federal prosecutors wrote.

An attorney for Trump declined to comment Wednesday night.

Trump's attorneys said this month that they wanted to subpoena the Committee on House Administration, which was tasked with archiving and preserving records transferred by the former House Jan. 6 committee, and other entities involved with handling the investigative materials.

In that filing, Trump's attorneys proposed seven subpoenas, whose recipients included former House Jan. 6 committee chairman Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., arguing that there are certain missing records that could be relevant to Trump's defense.

The subpoenas would include a request for video recordings of witness interviews. Rep. Barry Loudermilk of Georgia, a Republican on the House Administration Committee, wrote in a letter in June that only written transcripts were transferred after the Jan. 6 committee concluded and that video recordings of transcribed interviews and depositions, which featured prominently during the Select Committees hearings, were not archived or transferred.

Prosecutors said Wednesday that the government had produced documents that included the sensitive, nonpublic transcripts sought by Trump "more than two months ago" and that he had not requested additional information or clarification about those materials at the time.

"Had he done so, the Government would have directed him to the relevant discovery productions that obviate the need for his proposed subpoenas," they wrote.

The other filing by prosecutors Wednesday night focused on jury procedures in the election interference case thats scheduled to go to trial in March. Both parties have largely been in agreement about using written questionnaires during the jury selection process.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Former President Donald Trump comments to the media during a break of his civil business fraud trial at New York Supreme Court, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal prosecutors are urging a judge to reinstate a gag order on Donald Trump, citing recent social media posts about the former president's chief of staff that they said represented an attempt to influence and intimidate a foreseeable witness in the case.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the federal case charging Trump with plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 election, last week temporarily paused her order barring Trump from making inflammatory comments about prosecutors, court staff and potential witnesses. The ruling came as Trump's lawyers challenge the limited gag order in higher courts.

In a motion filed Wednesday night, special counsel Jack Smith's team encouraged Chutkan to put the restrictions back in place. Prosecutors cited in part statements in social media and at a news conference over the last day by Trump about his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, who was reported by ABC News on Tuesday to have testified before a grand jury after receiving immunity from prosecution.

The former president mused on social media about the possibility that Meadows, a close ally in the White House who was charged alongside Trump in a separate state prosecution in Georgia related to efforts to undo the election, would give testimony to Smith in exchange for immunity. One part of the post said: Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I don't think that Mark Meadows is one of them but who really knows?"

In their motion, Smith's team cited the post about Meadows as an example of the type of commentary that the original gag order was meant to prohibit and a reason why the restrictions should be reinstated.

Trump, prosecutors wrote, has capitalized on the Courts administrative stay to, among other prejudicial conduct, send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness in this case.

They added: Unless the Court lifts the administrative stay, the defendant will not stop his harmful and prejudicial attacks. In addition, to the extent that the defendants public message  directed to the Chief of Staff, with knowledge that it would reach him  is not already covered by his release conditions, it is an intentional end-run around them.

Smith's team also asked Chutkan to modify the conditions of Trump's pretrial release by making compliance with the gag order a condition, or by clarifying that the existing condition barring communication with witnesses about the facts of the case includes indirect messages to witnesses made publicly on social media or in speeches.

In a separate matter Wednesday, Trump was fined $10,000 after the judge in his civil fraud trial in New York said the former president had violated a gag order.
The companies cited in the Dilworth scaffolding collapse are in more legal trouble.

After being slapped with multiple violations, Friends Masonry Construction is now being investigated for separate but serious issues.

Federal investigators want local workers to come forward, and they say theyll be protected if they do. Many of them were working at the time of the deadly scaffolding collapse in January, but this investigation is separate and could provide help for undocumented workers.

PREVIOUS STORIES:

The collapse happened at an apartment complex construction site on East Morehead Street on Jan. 2. Jose Canaca, Jesus Olivares, and Gilberto Fernandez fell 70 feet and died. You can see more about who they were and donate to help their families by clicking this link.

The U.S. Department of Labor is investigating Friends Masonry Construction to determine whether the Charlotte company complied with minimum wage, child labor, and overtime pay requirements.

While the investigation continues, undocumented employees who cooperate may be protected from deportation and even get a work permit. It is a program similar to DACA, but its for noncitizen workers who are victims of or witnesses to the violation of labor rights.

They have an interest in speaking to workers and making sure those workers feel free to come forward without fear of immigration consequences, and so they have issued this statement of interest, said Carol Brooke, a senior attorney with the North Carolina Justice Center.

Our partners at Telemundo Charlotte talked to Brooke, who said anyone who has worked for Friends Masonry since July 25, 2021 can use a letter from the Department of Labor to apply for the protection.

Its unclear how many people have worked at Friends Masonry or how many job sites they had in addition to the one in Dilworth, but when Channel 9s Hannah Goetz talked to Brooke Thursday, she said getting the letter is a beginning step for the process that any worker at any job site can request.

We certainly recommend people talk to an immigration lawyer and get their assistance in filing the paperwork to request the deferred action, Brooke said.

Goetz could not find a website or phone number listed for Friends Masonry, so she has not been able to ask them for a response to this investigation.

If you need help with the deferred action request process, click here.

After the January collapse, state investigators found the scaffolding had not been properly inspected and that some of the steel was heavily rusted and deteriorated. Family of one of the workers sued the companies involved, claiming gross negligence.

To read about the Workers Rights Project, click here.

(WATCH BELOW: Serious violations found at site of deadly scaffolding collapse in Dilworth)
MILWAUKEE - Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin crews gave out free dairy products to guests of All Peoples Church on Wednesday morning, Oct. 25.

The distribution was in connection to Feeding America's newly developed "Dairyland Delivery" program. As the cost of groceries continues to increase, the organization said dairy products consistently top the list of most-requested items for food pantries across Wisconsin.

"The biggest difference we have today is that we have the dairy, from Feeding America," said Brian Bolling, the church's interim food minister. "They came in with a grant from Siebert Lutheran Foundation. They are here to hand out food, which is what we're all about here."

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

Feeding America "Dairyland Delivery" program

Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin will deliver and distribute free milk, eggs, cheese and other fresh Wisconsin-made dairy products to families in Milwaukee.

To make a donation or get involved as a volunteer, visit Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin's website.
Amina Noor told the Old Bailey the mutilation is done for cultural reasons

A woman has been found guilty of taking a three-year-old British child to Kenya for female genital mutilation (FGM).

Amina Noor, 39, is the first person to be convicted of assisting a non-UK person to perform FGM.

Noor, from Harrow in north-west London, took the child to a private house for the procedure in 2006.

She had told the Old Bailey the mutilation is done for cultural reasons and was a procedure she herself had undergone as a child.

Noor, who was born in Somalia but has British citizenship, will be sentenced on 20 December.

It was only in 2015 that the girl - who is now aged 21 and who cannot be identified - confided to a schoolteacher that she had suffered FGM and police were informed.

Following an examination at University College Hospital in 2019 it was found that the girl's clitoris had been completely removed.

'No threats'

Giving evidence at her trial, Noor claimed she had come under cultural pressure to have the procedure performed.

Noor told her trial that she and another woman had taken the child in a tuk-tuk vehicle and she had been told to wait outside a house.

She claimed that she had only expected the girl's genitals to be "touched" in a way that would cause them to bleed.

However, the prosecution said the jury could be sure the defendant knew that an act of FGM was to be performed - whether or not that was the removal of the girl's clitoris or some form of physical injury for which there was no medical purpose.

Prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said Noor had repeatedly denied to police that she had been threatened to force her to agree to the procedure.

"She was asked three times if she had been threatened and three times she said there were no threats," Ms Heer said.

But in her defence Noor claimed she feared being "disowned and cursed" by the community if she did not hand over the girl.

The prosecution also drew attention to the defendant's behaviour at the time the FGM was carried out - for example, she had not asked whether the people involved were doctors or insisted on being present for the procedure.

FGM is a practice that is very widespread among the Somali community in East Africa, the court heard, with United Nations figures suggesting that 94% of women of Somali origin living in Kenya have undergone the procedure.
Police announced a final arrest in connection to an August shooting at a Boston festival that injured 8 people.

Hubman Hunter, 31, of Lynn, was arrested on Wednesday by virtue of an arrest warrant, according to Boston Police.

He is charged with 8 counts of armed assault with intent to murder, carrying a firearm without a License, carrying a loaded firearm without a license, carrying a firearm without a license (his 3rd offense), possession of ammunition without an FID card, carrying a firearm without a license with two prior violent/drug crimes, and discharging of a firearm within 500 feet of a building.

The charges stem from an August 26 shooting on Talbot Avenue during Dorchesters Caribbean Carnival Festival. Six men and two women were injured as gunfire erupted between rival gangs, authorities say.

In a police report, law enforcement officials said that officers who were monitoring the area on Talbot Avenue moments before the mass shooting feared an immediate threat to the general public.

Several arrests have already been made, and Boston Police say Hunter was the final suspect. He was found in Quincy and arrested without incident.

He will be arraigned in Dorchester District Court.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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The firing of an editor who commented publicly about the Israel-Hamas war has triggered a series of resignations at a scientific journal and exposed a rift among some in the academic community about free speech and whose voices are elevated in science.

The board of the biomedical and life sciences journal eLife fired its editor-in-chief, Michael Eisen , after he posted on X on Oct. 13, The Onion speaks with more courage, insight and moral clarity than the leaders of every academic institution put together. I wish there were a @TheOnion university, while quoting a post from the satirical website with the headline, Dying Gazans Criticized For Not Using Last Words To Condemn Hamas.

On Tuesday, Eisen, 56, who is Jewish and has family in Israel, posted that he had been fired for the comments.

I have been informed that I am being replaced as the Editor in Chief of @eLife for retweeting a @TheOnion piece that calls out indifference to the lives of Palestinian civilians, he wrote on X.

The same day, the journal released a statement from its board of directors saying Eisen had been given clear feedback from the board that his approach to leadership, communication and social media has at key times been detrimental to the cohesion of the community we are trying to build and hence to eLifes mission and that previous behavior influenced the boards decision.

The journal, a well-regarded online publication based in the United Kingdom, directed NBC News to its statement and did not answer questions about the decision to fire Eisen or its fallout.

Eisen told NBC News that the board had asked him to delete the tweet that re-posted The Onion. He refused. The board then asked him to resign. He refused. Later, it fired him.

Michael Eisen. (Courtesy Michael Eisen)

The controversy adds to what has become a fraught and contentious public atmosphere around the war in Israel and Gaza. The war has become a polarizing topic at many workplaces and university campuses as organizations debate how to handle employees with differing and strong viewpoints, the value of free expression and where to draw lines on speech some have deemed as harmful.

Such questions face industries across a wide swath of American and international life, from Hollywood  where a CAA agent resigned from an internal board following her social media comments, according to Variety  to the courtroom, after a New York University law student lost their job for their role in issuing a Student Bar Association statement. Many of the controversies, like Eisens, which have played out in public view online, centered on comments that have been criticized as being anywhere from insensitive to Israelis to supportive of Hamas.

Since Eisen was fired, at least five of the journals editors have said on X that they had resigned. Other scientists said they would stop participating in eLife events. a member of the nonprofit journals board of directors said he opposed the boards actions. Other academics organized a petition letter protesting Eisens firing and saying it is having a chilling effect on freedom of expression in academia.

More than 2,000 scientists, academics and researchers apparently signed the online petition, though some have remained anonymous.

The right to express dissenting views is a cornerstone of our intellectual mission as scientists and citizens, the letter says, addind, Eisens social media posts should not be grounds for removing him as eLife editor or otherwise censuring him.

Fede Pelisch, a cell biologist at Scotlands University of Dundee, resigned from eLifes board of directors after its action, writing in a resignation email that its handling of the firing left people feeling silenced and that the decision discouraged people from voicing opinions if their opinions did not conform to orthodoxy.

In a separate email to NBC News, Pelisch said that as a member of the board he was part of deliberations about whether to fire Eisen, that he disagreed with the boards decision and that it goes against the journals mission to encourage diversity and openness.

Asked whether Eisen was fired for his post on X, Pelisch wrote: I think this was a big part of it but this is a more complicated matter, conflated by many people inside the eLife community not accepting the new eLifes direction and some peoples personal dislike of Dr. Eisens ways of sharing thought-provoking opinions.

Derya Unutmaz, a professor and immunologist at the Jackson Laboratory, a nonprofit research group based in Maine, spoke out about Eisens post on X the day after it was posted and said later in an interview that he felt someone in such a prominent position in science had a responsibility to be sensitive to Israelis whose families might have been affected by violence, including Israeli scientists.

Hes a well-known scientist and the editor of a scientific journal. I felt he needed to be more responsible, Unutmaz said, adding that he thought an editor leading a journal should take extra caution not to appear biased toward a particular group or viewpoint.

Unutmaz, who said he supports Eisens positions on scientific journal publishing, said he was neutral about Eisens firing without more information and said he did not see it as a restriction of freedom of speech.

He can go ahead and say what he wants on social media, but theres going to be a response to your choices, Unutmaz said.

Eisen is a prominent voice in scientific publishing and is viewed as a disruptor of the status quo in the industry. This year eLife changed its operating model to eliminate the traditional accept and reject function scientific journals typically use and instead publish peer review critiques  whether lauding or critical  in conjunction with articles. The journal is an open access journal, which means articles are free and available online to the public. Proponents of changes to the publishing system often argue that traditional academic journals are gatekeepers and that careerism gives scientists incentives to guide their research to fit the tastes of journal editors, who are often older white men.

Asked about his leadership approach and communications, Eisen said the board had previously asked him not to swear on social media after a joke about worms, which included a curse word, spiraled out of control. He stopped swearing on social media, he said. Eisen said he has ruffled feathers with his sometimes confrontational communications with prominent outside scientists, who dislike his approach to publishing.

Im always outspoken. I wear my thoughts on my sleeve. Ive always been involved in publishing reform for a quarter-century, Eisen said. I responded to criticism of what were doing  I would say  not always with the most delicate language.

Several Israeli scientists said on X that they were offended by his X posts. Eisen said he never meant to cause pain to people who were suffering; his intention, he said, was to call attention to the lack of care for Palestinian civilians.

Israel began a complete siege and aerial bombardment of Gaza in retaliation for Hamas terrorist attack on Oct. 7, which killed more than 1,400 people. So far more than 7,000 people in Gaza are estimated to have been killed amid a humanitarian crisis.

I expressed my opinion, an opinion about the way that American institutions, especially universities, have been kind of not expressing equal concern for the deaths of Palestinians as they have Israelis, which I think is a moral mistake and a political mistake, Eisen said. I dont think that Israeli scientists should feel like the scientific community does not have their backs. The support has been very strong  I thought it was obvious. People dont always express themselves well in these situations. I wish I made clear how I empathized with them, too.

Lara Urban, a reviewing editor at eLife who also contributed to its early career advisory group, resigned in solidarity after Eisen was fired. Urban, who receives a small yearly stipend for work on the advisory group, said she viewed Eisen as someone who was trying to push equity and inclusion forward within scientific publishing, that his social media postings stood up for minority opinions within the scientific community and that the boards actions would chill free academic speech.

Urban was part of a group of early-career scientists who wrote to the board as it considered whether to fire Eisen. She said the group never heard back.

It was a personal opinion, said Urban, a principal investigator and genomics researcher at Helmholtz Munich, a research institute in Germany. We really got more and more concerned that, most importantly, there was a precedent being set, that someone can be fired for voicing an unpopular opinion. Freedom of speech is very important in academia.

Eisen said the board had every right to fire him, that no one should feel sorry for him and that he is not concerned that the firing put his employment elsewhere at risk. He does feel the institution of eLife failed because it bowed to social media calls for his dismissal.

Its terrifying we function this way. Its terrifying institutions are more concerned about what mobs think of them than doing the right thing, Eisen said. I think we have to learn to say things we disagree with without them being hounded off the face of the Earth.

CORRECTION (Oct. 26, 2023, 5:37 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misspelled the last name of the fired editor. He is Michael Eisen, not Eisner.

CORRECTION (Oct. 27, 2023, 3:51 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated what Helmholtz Munich is. It is a research institute, not a university.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
The U.S. Capitol Building is seen in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, when House lawmakers overwhelming passed legislation voice support for Israel in its war against Hamas. Photo by Pat Benic/UPI

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Lawmakers in the U.S. House of Representatives have overwhelmingly passed legislation voicing support for Israel and condemnation of Hamas in its first vote since sitting a new speaker.

The vote was held Wednesday after Republicans elected Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson the new speaker of the House more than 20 days after the party ousted former speaker Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California.

The Congressional branch was brought to a standstill just days before Israel launched its war against the Iran-backed Hamas in response to the militant group's Oct. 7 surprise attack that killed 1,400 Israelis.

Israel's response has been incessant bombing of the Palestinian enclave of the Gaza Strip, which has resulted in 6,546 dead Palestinians, including more than 2,700 children.

The four-page House Resolution 771, sponsored by Rep. Michael McCaul , R-Texas, passed 412-10-6 on Wednesday, calling for the House to stand with Israel as it defends itself "against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists" and to reaffirm Israel's right to self-defense.

It also condemns Hamas, calls on all countries to condemn Hamas and orders the House to stand ready to assist Israel with emergency resupply and other security, diplomatic and intelligence support. It also includes calls for enforcement of sanctions against Iran.

The nine Democrats who voted against the bill are Reps. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, Cori Bush of Missouri, Jamaal Bowman of New York, Andre Carson of Indiana, Al Green of Texas, Summer Lee of Pennsylvania, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York, Ilhan Omar of Minnesota and Dalia Ramirez of Illinois.

The sole Republican to vote against the bill was Thomas Massie of Kentucky.

In a statement published before the vote, Massie said he condemns Hamas' attack on Israel but cannot support the bill as it calls for sanctions on a sovereign country and includes an open-ended commitment of military support, among other issues.

McCaul celebrated the passing of his bill online.

"This measure sends a clear message across the globe: The U.S. stands with Israel," he said.
The House of Representatives has a new speaker in Mike Johnson, R-La., and he already has a full plate.

Johnson is taking the reins from interim House Speaker Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., who took up the speaker pro tempore position after former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy 's ouster weeks ago.

The new speaker, though, is inheriting a packed docket that includes a looming government funding deadline.

HOUSE TO CONVENE TO HOLD SPEAKER VOTE AFTER REPUBLICANS PICK JOHNSON

GOP representatives slammed an ABC reporter during a recent press conference after she asked about House speaker nominee Mike Johnson, R-La., questioning the 2020 election results.

GOVERNMENT FUNDING DEADLINE

The first issue Johnson will have to wrestle with is funding the government.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

There are 12 appropriations bills that need to pass through Congress and reach President Biden's desk before a quickly approaching Nov. 17 deadline.

The government is funded until mid-November, and failure to get appropriation legislation across the finish line would lead to a government shutdown.

A continuing resolution (CR) could be a move Johnson considers to buy more time to pass the appropriations bills, but a CR was the catalyst for McCarthy's ouster, led by GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida.

GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida.

ISRAEL

The war in Israel has been a backdrop for the House's speaker fight, and action will be taken now that the chamber has a leader.

With Americans being taken hostage and the potential of Hamas and Hezbollah terrorists entering America at the southern border, the House is under pressure to make a move.

Johnson's first bill as speaker was a House resolution of support for Israel.

"The first bill that I'm going to bring to this floor in just a little while will be in support of our dear, dear friend Israel, and we're overdue in getting that done," Johnson said in his acceptance speech for the speakership.

Funding for Israel is one of the big-ticket items entering appropriation season and will likely see a fight from progressives in the House who have called for aid to be cut off.

Additionally, rising antisemitism and support for Hamas in America, especially on college campuses, will likely be an issue Johnson will have to address.

Protesters in support of Israel and Palestinians rally on college campuses.

THE BORDER

The southern border continues to be a major issue affecting Americans as drugs and illegal immigrants pour into the country.

DEM COMMITTEE POSTS FALSE INFORMATION PAINTING SPEAKER NOMINEE AS MAGA EXTREMIST

Border officials arrested 18 people on the FBIs terror watch list in September, making fiscal year 2023 a record year for such encounters at the southern border.

According to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) statistics , 169 people on FBI terror watch lists were encountered between ports of entry at the southern border in the past 12 months, a number that exceeds not only fiscal year 2022s record-setting total (98) but the last six fiscal years combined.

In addition to addressing the crisis at the southern border, Johnson will have to battle with the Biden administration on its immigration agenda.

FerroMex train cars packed with migrants head toward the U.S. southern border.

UKRAINE AID

The war between Ukraine and Russia also rages on, with funding being a point of contention in the House GOP conference.

Some conservative Republicans are opposed to sending more money to Ukraine during the war while moderates and Democrats support more aid.

Johnson will have to balance the interests of the larger conservative wing of his party with the moderate members who could influence funding for Ukraine if they reach across the aisle to moderate Democrats amid the slim majority.

The Democrats nominated House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries as their speaker nominee.

CONTROLLING THE CONFERENCE

Perhaps one of the most difficult tasks Johnson will face is controlling the House GOP conference.

The Republicans have proven to be a wild caucus in the eventful 118th Congress, ousting their own speaker and electing a new one midterm, with conflicting interests driving much of the politicking.

Moderates and conservatives in the GOP will be a juggling act for Johnson in his new role  not to mention personal agendas of members in the slim majority.

Johnson was elected speaker of the House Wednesday with a vote of 220-209.

The Democrats nominated House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries as their speaker nominee.

Fox News Digital's Adam Shaw contributed reporting.





Original article source: Five dilemmas new House speaker Mike Johnson will have to tackle
James Maxwell paid 1,000 in cryptocurrency to buy a Glock 17 pistol and bullets from the US

A man researched the Dunblane school shooting and tried to import a handgun and 100 rounds of ammunition from the United States, a court heard.

James Maxwell, 28, paid 1,000 in cryptocurrency to buy a self-loading Glock 17 pistol and bullets.

A package addressed to Maxwell was intercepted in January by US authorities who discovered the gun and two boxes of ammunition concealed within a household electronic device.

Maxwell was sentenced to five years in jail at the High Court in Edinburgh on Thursday after he pleaded guilty to purchasing and attempting to acquire a prohibited weapon.

His defence was that he bought the gun when his mental health deteriorated and he started to contemplate suicide.

The judge, Lord Ericht, told Maxwell that the ammunition he ordered was far in excess of the amount necessary to kill yourself and of a type designed to inflict greater injury than standard bullets.

It was hollow point, live ammunition. Hollow-point ammunition is designed to cause greater injury than standard ammunition. The judge added that it was a feature of many school mass shootings, including Dunblane and many in America, that they ended with the killer turning his gun on himself.

US officials alerted Scotland

Maxwell paid for the pistol and ammunition to be delivered to his home in Leven, Fife, but the items were removed by US officials who alerted Police Scotland.

When officers arrived at Maxwells home with a search warrant, they found him wearing blue latex gloves and an opened laptop in his bedroom that contained an instruction manual for assembling a Glock pistol.

An examination of his mobile phone revealed that he made internet searches for 13-year-old boy and cute 14-year-olds. He was also found to have a video on his laptop of a girl, aged between eight and 10, performing sex acts and eight still images of bestiality.

A further 184 files with names referencing child sexual abuse and extreme pornography had been accessed.

Defence counsel Jonathan Crowe said Maxwell had a troubled upbringing and that his father committed suicide when Maxwell was 13.

He said Maxwell stopped going to school and added: He did not return to secondary school and as a result missed out on most, if not all, of his secondary education.

Mr Crowe said Maxwell described himself as being suicidal for many years and had expressed a desire to end his life.

The prosecutor, advocate depute Richard Goddard KC, said examination of the laptop revealed searches including best suicide method and suicide by gunshot uk.

He added: However, other searches included the words primary school in Glasgow, Dunblane school massacre [and] when do schools break up for Christmas 2022.

The Dunblane school massacre in 1996 resulted in the deaths of 16 children and a teacher after gunman Thomas Hamilton invaded the primary school, near Stirling, before shooting himself.

Police commended

The judge commended United States law enforcement officers and Police Scotland for their actions in ensuring the gun and ammunition were not received by Maxwell.

Maxwell earlier admitted purchasing and attempting to acquire a Glock 17 pistol and ammunition illegally and pleaded guilty to possession of extreme pornography.

The judge ordered that Maxwell should be kept under supervision for a further four year period when he will be on licence and can be returned to prison if he breaches its conditions.

Maxwell, who followed the sentencing proceedings via a live link to prison, was also told that he will be on the sex offenders register for seven years.

Sineidin Corrins, deputy procurator fiscal for specialist casework at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said: This weapon could have been used for devastating purposes. But thanks to the work of law-enforcement agencies and close collaboration with COPFS, this gun was removed from criminal circulation and the accused will now spend a significant period in prison as a result of his criminal actions.

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 statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee being removed in Charlottesville, Virginia, in July 2021 (WIN MCNAMEE)

A statue of a US Civil War general for the pro-slavery Confederacy that became the focus of protests for racial justice has been melted down in secret, The Washington Post reported on Thursday.

The towering bronze statue of General Robert E. Lee, who commanded the Army of Northern Virginia during the bloody 1861-65 conflict, was removed in July 2021 from a public park in Charlottesville, Virginia.

The Post said the statue, which had been handed over to the city's Black history museum, was melted down on Saturday at a foundry whose location is being kept secret.

Tensions over the fate of the Lee statue led to violence in August 2017 when an avowed white nationalist drove his car into a crowd of demonstrators in Charlottesville.

The protesters had gathered in opposition to white supremacists who staged a "Unite the Right" rally against plans to remove the statue of Lee.

Then-president Donald Trump came under fire when he said afterward that there were "very fine people on both sides" of the protests.

The Charlottesville violence gave new life to a campaign to remove Confederate symbols which first gained momentum following the June 2015 murders in South Carolina of nine black churchgoers by another white supremacist.

The campaign picked up again following the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd, an African American killed by a white police officer in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The Post said bronze ingots from the Lee statue will be used by a group known as "Swords Into Plowshares" to make a piece of public artwork to be displayed in Charlottesville.

The newspaper quoted the owner of the foundry, a Black man who was not identified, as saying it was an "honor" to melt down the statue.

"The risk is being targeted by people of hate, having my business damaged, having threats to family and friends," he said.

But, he added, "when you are approached with such an honor, especially to destroy hate, you have to do it.

"It is time to dismantle this hate, this infection that has plagued our beautiful country," he said.

During the Civil War, the Confederate South seceded from the United States and fought to maintain slavery, which the rest of the country had abolished.

cl/md
Florida's university system directed all public universities in the state to disband chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group National Students for Justice in Palestine on Wednesday, saying the group supports terrorism. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (pictured in NYC in September) ordered the groups banned immediately. File Photo by Peter Foley/UPI

Oct. 25 (UPI) -- Florida's university system directed all public universities in the state to disband chapters of the pro-Palestinian student group National Students for Justice in Palestine on Wednesday, saying the group supports terrorism.

State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues said two Florida chapters of the group, at the University of Florida and the University of South Florida, "must be deactivated." Gov. Ron DeSantis directed the universities to remove the groups immediately.

The move comes more than two weeks after Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel, and Israel declared war. The letter to the state's 12 university presidents says it is a felony in Florida to "knowingly provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organization." The United States declared Hamas a terrorist organization.

Rodrigues said the UF and USF student chapters can "form another organization that complies with Florida state statutes and university policies. The two institutions should grant these two chapters a waiver for the fall deadlines, should reapplication take place."

Rodrigues said the group distributed a "toolkit" document that outlines tips and advice for student chapters planning to hold pro-Palestinian rallies.

"Today, we witness a historic win for the Palestinian resistance: across land, air, and sea, our people have broken down the artificial barriers of the Zionist entity, taking with it the facade of an impenetrable settler colony and reminding each of us that total return and liberation to Palestine is near," the document reads in part. "As the Palestinian student movement, we have an unshakable responsibility to join the call for mass mobilization."
Florida deputies search for person who sucker-punched elderly man at Walmart

Deputies in Broward County are searching for the person who sucker-punched an elderly man at a Walmart.

Surveillance video from the store shows the attack that happened on Oct. 11.

The video shows a man in a blue sweater walking toward the store, as an elderly man walks out with a bag.

Then you can see the suspect punch that victim twice in the face.

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Deputies said that the attacker just walked away after the assault.

The victim told deputies he didnt know the attacker, he didnt say anything, and nothing was stolen.

The victim was checked out at a hospital and should be okay.

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HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. - A Florida man was arrested after deputies found various drugs inside a home that were packaged in a way to represent popular candy.

On Tuesday, deputies said they responded to a home near 5109 Higate Road in Spring Hill which was under investigation for possible drug sale activity since March.

Deputies said when 23-year-old Tanah Charlson opened the door they were hit by an "overwhelming smell of marijuana."

Florida man, woman accused of slashing man's throat, tossing him over bridge during date, deputies say

Charlson told deputies there was marijuana inside the residence but that "it is not a grow house."

When Charlson gathered his items to leave the property, he picked up his car keys and what deputies said appeared to be a rolled marijuana joint.

After detaining Charlson, deputies found narcotics and paraphernalia inside the home packaged in a way to represent candy items available at retail stores, deputies said.

The drugs found included 24 pounds of marijuana, 10 ounces of cocaine, 84 Xanax pills, 90 pounds of hashish, and two guns.

Charlson was charged with trafficking cocaine, trafficking a controlled substance, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of ammo by a convicted felon, possession of marijuana, possession of a controlled substance, possession of paraphernalia, and personal possession of a structure used to traffic controlled substances.
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THE VILLAGES, Fla. - A Florida man's day at a community pool in The Villages took a drastic turn when he was arrested after drunkenly threatening to break a police officer's throat, according to the Wildwood Police Department. His threats, however, escalated when the officer decided to inform the man's wife about the incident.

"Pieces of s---," Lyle Parrot told officers, according to an arrest affidavit obtained by FOX 35 News.

Parrot, 64, was arrested and charged with simple assault on a law enforcement officer after the situation that unfolded in the Village of DeLuna community swimming pool on Saturday afternoon.

Officers responded to the pool after people complained of a drunk person smoking in the pool area, according to the affidavit. That man, identified as Parrot, became "belligerent" toward the responding officers and yelled profanities at them while slurring his speech, officers said.

During Parrot's drunk rage, an officer tried to get Parrot's name and date of birth. The officer also noticed Parrot's Villages ID card was on a table, which he tried to grab, the report said.

"For f------ with me, I'm going to break your throat," Parrot reportedly told the officer.

"You're going to break my throat?" the officer asked Parrot to clarify.

"Yup," he said.

The man also said he'd kill the officer and repeatedly asked the other to shoot him in the face, the report added.

Photo: Sumter County Sheriffs Office

During this back and forth, an officer stepped away to make a phone call to Parrot's wife, asking her to come to the pool, pick him up and take him home. The arrest affidavit does not specify how her contact information was obtained.

That's when Parrot became "belligerent" again and yelled more profanities at the officers.

The officer reached across the table to grab Parrot's ID card, but he stood up and stepped toward him.

"Give me that g--d--- ID back," Parrot said, according to the report.

At this point, Parrot got closer to the officer, made a fist with his right hand and swung it at the officer in an attempt to hit him in the face, the affidavit said. The other officer standing nearby was able to catch Parrot's arm in the air before punching the officer. Parrot was placed in handcuffs and escorted out to the officers' patrol car.

While in the car, Parrot continued to threaten the officers, saying he was going to "kill" them, the report states. He also called them "pieces of s---" for calling his wife about the incident.

He was placed under arrest and transported to the Sumter County Jail.

MORE FLORIDA MAN :

A few days later on Monday, the officers were tipped that Parrot's wife was asking around about them in their community, according to the affidavit.

The manager of the Village of DeLuna community told officers that Parrot's wife was asking around to "find out who got her husband arrested," the affidavit said.

When officers made contact with her, she said that she only made those comments to try and talk to the people who were spreading rumors about her husband. She said she didn't have any intention of causing any physical harm. She added that she was "upset" about comments being made about her husband and his arrest.

"She stated people were spreading rumors about the community and making it hard for her to live in the community peacefully," the report said.

Officers told her to not make any more comments and to stay away from the residents who might be spreading rumors.
Florida officials have ordered state universities and colleges to disband pro-Palestinian student chapters on their respective campuses amid the ongoing war between Israel and the militant group Hamas.

In a letter to state university presidents sent Tuesday, State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues directed them to disband chapters of the National Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) on their campuses. The order comes after the national groups response to Hamass attack on Israel earlier this month.

In response, and leading up to a Day of Resistance, the National Students for Justice in Palestine (National SJP) released a toolkit which refers to Operation Al-Aqsa Flood as the resistance and unequivocally states: Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not in solidarity with this movement, Rodrigues wrote in his letter.

It is a felony under Florida law to knowingly provide material support  to a designated foreign terrorist organization, Rodrigues added. Here, National SJP has affirmatively identified it is part of the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood  a terrorist led attack.

Rodrigues also said in his letter that National SJP chapters only exist under the headship of the main organization.

Based on the National SJPs support of terrorism, in consultation with Governor DeSantis , the student chapters must be deactivated, he added. These two student chapters may form another organization that complies with Florida state statutes and university policies. The two institutions should grant these two chapters a waiver for the fall deadlines, should reapplication take place.

The move comes as Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy criticized Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) for his administrations move to disband the student chapters, saying attempting to silence their freedom of speech wouldnt solve any problems.

DeSantis, who is considered former President Trumps main rival in the 2024 GOP race, has had a staunch pro-Israel stance since this months attacks, which has led to pro- and anti-Israel demonstrations around the world.

My view is that the answer to bad speech is not less speech, it is more speech. And I think it is wrong for us to silence those we disagree with, Ramaswamy said on Hill TVs Rising.

I dont think thats the American way. I dont think thats productive, and I dont think we convince any of those people by browbeating them into submission through fear either.

Its been almost three weeks since Hamas, the governing authority of Gaza that the U.S. recognizes as a terrorist organization, launched an attack on Israel that left 1,400 people dead.

In response, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of 6,546 residents and 17,439 suffering injuries, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Israels consul general in Miami on Thursday clarified Gov. Ron DeSantis  role in facilitating a claimed transfer of weapons and ammunition to Israel, telling McClatchy that he asked the Florida governors office, among other parties, to provide final clearance for a private shipment of weapons parts in the early days of the war with Hamas.

DeSantis office and presidential campaign said earlier in the day that he had helped ship weapons and drones to Israel at the consulates request, without providing details. In an interview, the consul general, Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, said that a private donation of rifle inserts and other parts was scheduled to be sent on a commercial El Al flight within the first week of the war but that a final bureaucratic approval was necessary to get the shipment on the plane.

They asked me to help. I approached a few contacts, including the governors office, to get the final approval, Elbaz-Starinsky said in a telephone interview. It went through all the process. Im not even sure, at the end of the day, which one untangled this thing and made the shipment be approved.

The stakeholders who did the shipment upon the request of Israel had all of the approvals needed to send the shipment, and they were just missing the final approval, Elbaz-Starinsky said, noting that the party needed approval from the Transportation Security Administration.

Usually I dont get involved in these things, he added, but it was really the first days of the war, everyone was panicked and stressed  everything was urgent.

A lack of clarity from governors office

Earlier on Thursday, DeSantis spokesperson Jeremy Redfern said in an email that the governors office had been contacted by the Israeli consul general in Miami for assistance to clear federal bureaucratic hurdles to get weapons and ammunition to Israel through private parties. DeSantis presidential campaign put out a press release touting the effort as a potential boon to his candidacy.

When pressed for more details, Redfern declined to disclose the private parties or specify what the federal hurdles had been. Redfern later clarified that the state did not purchase the weapons and ammunition, and that those items were transported separately to Israel, without offering details on the mode of transport or source of funding.

An initial shipment of medical equipment and protective vests donated to Israel by U.S. citizens was also sent last week on two cargo planes funded by the state of Florida.

John Kirby, a national security spokesman at the White House, said Thursday that he was not aware of any coordination on the shipments between Florida and the Biden administration.

I would certainly let the governor speak to what Florida is doing. It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country, Kirby said. There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled, and thats all done through Commerce. I couldnt speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not.

Governor touts Floridas role

The shipment of weaponry drew criticism from Florida Democrats.

President Biden is the commander in chief of our military  not Ron DeSantis, said Florida Democratic Party Chair Nikki Fried. As a Navy veteran, Ron should understand the importance of respecting the chain of command. This is a gross breach of norms and a potential violation of federal laws governing the shipment of weapons.

DeSantis did not disclose the states role in shipping weapons and ammunition when he posted a graphic on X, formerly known as Twitter, touting several of the states efforts to help Israel amid the war.

Thanks to all who helped make this happen, the governor, who is running for GOP nomination for president, said in the post on Wednesday.

Gov. Ron DeSantis posted this on his account on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

The secrecy surrounding how the weapons were acquired and shipped comes as the DeSantis administration has also been slow to provide information about how much the state has spent to rescue hundreds of U.S. citizens from Israel to the United States and which vendors were involved in the rescue operations.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management on Thursday  nearly two weeks after the first rescue flight arrived in Florida  said that the rescue flights are expected to cost Florida taxpayers approximately $32 million.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis greets passengers arriving from Israel on a chartered flight organized by Project Dynamo on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023 in Tampa. The flight landed at Tampa International Airport with 270 evacuees rescued by Project Dynamo from Israel including 91 children and four dogs.

The price tag includes payouts to three separate organizations  ARS Global Emergency Management, TAD Recovery Services and Echo 1 Emergency Logistics Inc.  that have helped coordinate flights and identify American passengers who were seeking to flee the war zone in Israel.

ARS is the primary contractor leading the Israel rescue flights, and its purchase order has so far totaled $19 million, said Amelia Johnson, a spokesperson with the Florida Division of Emergency Management. In June, the company was also picked to help carry out DeSantis controversial migrant flight program.

TAD Recovery Services and Echo 1 have purchase orders of $10 million and $3 million, respectively, Johnson said.

The state has not released budgeting documents about the rescue flights because the missions are ongoing, Johnson added.

A chartered flight organized by Project Dynamo arrives at Tampa International Airport on Oct. 15, 2023. The flight had 270 evacuees from Israel, including 91 children and four dogs.

It is unclear when or if the state will provide documents that show the full accounting of the operations logistical and financial arrangements. But history has shown the DeSantis administration tends to be secretive about its handling of large-scale operations, such as the pandemic response and the governors plan to fly migrants from Texas to Democratic strongholds in Massachusetts and California.

In addition to the three private vendors, the state also partnered with Project Dynamo, a nonprofit organization that specializes in bringing U.S. citizens home from conflict zones around the world.

The Orlando Sentinel has reported that Project Dynamo received a $1 million donation from the Volunteer Florida Foundation last week. The foundation is funded by the state and federal government.

The payment came after Bryan Stern, the CEO of Project Dynamo, criticized aspects of how Floridas vendors worked to get American passengers out of Israel, the Sentinel reported.

Volunteer Florida and Project Dynamo did not respond to requests for comment on the payment.

This story was updated to reflect the comments of the Israeli consul general regarding Floridas role in getting inserts for rifles and other parts shipped to Israel.
A Florida sheriffs deputy has been accused of soliciting a minor he met while responding to a domestic violence call placed by her parents.

Broward sheriffs deputy Jeremiah Thomas, 35, has been placed under administrative leave without pay following his arrest Tuesday on felony charges. Sheriff Gregory Tony announced the charges against Mr Thomas at a press conference where he discussed details about the case he deemed egregious.

Mr Thomas reportedly met the 17-year-old female victim while responding to a domestic disturbance call at her home in Pompano Beach in September. Authorities said that he gave the girl his personal phone number and began texting her, at one point allegedly telling her he could be his personal sheriff that handcuff[s] you from time to time.

This is one of the more grotesque and deliberate attempts to abuse a minor in our community, Sheriff Tony said. When you arrive to a domestic violence call, whether it be a minor or an adult, that is not a time to try to date someone or solicit contact or to maintain communication that is inappropriate, in this case .. all type of vulgar comments of the sex that he want[ed] to impose on this young lady.

The father of the minor contacted the BSO, prompting an internal investigation and a separate probe with the assistance of BSOs Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. An investigator posing as the teen victim engaged in text conversations with the deputy for nine days.

During that period, Mr Thomas, who has been with the law enforcement department since 2017, reportedly sent nude pictures of himself while on duty and told whom he believed was the girl that he wanted to meet her in private to perform sex acts on her.

On 22 October, Thomas and the officer pretending to be the girl arranged to meet at a hotel room. The suspect showed up at a hotel the following day, but the officer cancelled the meeting.

Mr Thomas was arrested a day later on charges of solicitation of a minor, transmission of material harmful to minors, travelling to meet a minor and attempted lewd and lascivious written solicitation.

Sheriff Tony said there are no indications Mr Thomas was involved with any other minors, but the investigation continues.

The arrest of Deputy Jeremiah Thomas on these charges is deeply disturbing, the sheriff said in a statement. One of the most important obligations that law enforcement officers have is to protect our greatest resource, our kids. If these allegations are true, Deputy Thomas broke that trust.

Mr Thomas is being held at the Broward County Main Jail.
A staff member at Western Avenue Elementary School may return to Flossmoor Elementary District 161 following an investigation that resulted in no charges, according to Superintendent Dana Smith.

Smith emailed the district community Tuesday announcing the unnamed faculty member and the district will begin conversations regarding a future return to work in the District. The faculty member has been on administrative leave since October 2021, when a former student at Western Avenue Elementary lodged a complaint that resulted in a police and district investigation, Smith said.

The investigation was thorough and substantive, including a review of relevant documents and materials, he wrote. After completing the investigation and the appeal process, it was determined, and the board of Education concurred, that the complaint was unfounded.

Flossmoor police Chief Jerel Jones made a similar statement.

After a thorough investigation by detectives, per standard procedures, the department brought its investigation to the Cook County States Attorneys Office in November 2021; charges were not filed, Jones wrote in an email Thursday.

Smith said in an email regarding discussions with the staff member that no timeline has been set for a return to the district.

The Daily Southtown previously reported the staff member was a teacher at the elementary school and the complaint came from a female student who alleged she was sexually abused. The complaint came to light after the student, now 19, according to her mother, was seven years removed from elementary school.

She never told us what was going on, the students mother said in 2022. Shes been holding onto this all these years.

Some residents expressed frustration on social media with the decision to consider bringing the teacher back, despite the determination the complaint was unfounded. One commenter wrote she feels terrible for parents who have to send their child to a school where a teacher was investigated and faced a complaint.

According to the 2021-2024 collective bargaining agreement on the District 161 website, teacher discipline must be in accordance with Illinois School Code. In Sec. 34-85 of the code, titled removal for cause, it does not appear being found guilty of a crime is a requirement for dismissal.

No written warning shall be required for conduct on the part of a teacher or principal that is cruel, immoral, negligent, or criminal or that in any way causes psychological or physical harm or injury to a student, as that conduct is deemed to be irremediable, the code states when discussing what is required for removal.

While law enforcement did not bring charges, the decision to begin the discussion of bringing the teacher back has much to do with the districts investigation finding the students complaint to be unfounded.

The former student who made the allegation, who spoke to the Daily Southtown on the condition of anonymity, said she suffered emotionally from the events that she said began when she was 6.

Unfounded also makes me very upset because they are saying they dont believe me, she said. I think Ill be affected forever because it really breaks you, especially when you are that young.

The Cook County states attorney office did not respond Thursday to requests for comment. Illinois Department of Child and Family Services did not provide the requested report immediately, although representatives did respond saying they would work to deliver what findings they could make public.

Daily Southtown reporter Mike Nolan contributed to this article.
SAN JOSE, Calif. - A food delivery driver is accused of sexually assaulting a teenage girl while delivering her order in San Jose, after allegedly forcing his way into her motel room.

According to the San Jose Police Department, the incident occurred at a motel in the 1000 block of The Alameda, where the teenage girl was staying with her mother. She had ordered a pizza on Saturday, and during the delivery, the deliveryman sexually assaulted her, officers said.

Her mother was not in the room at the time of the incident.

The suspect was identified as 21-year-old Sandeep Sandeep of Sunnyvale. Police officers located and arrested him in Campbell later that same evening.

Sandeep was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail on charges of intent to commit a sex crime, sexual battery and false imprisonment.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Ford on Thursday reported significant growth in the third quarter, although its financial results fell short of Wall Street estimates.

The automaker posted net income of $1.2 billion for the three-month period that ended Sept. 30. A year earlier it lost $827 million after taking a $2.7 billion write-down of its investment in a shuttered autonomous vehicle technology startup. Revenue increased by 11% in the latest quarter, coming in at $43.8 billion.

Ford's latest quarterly profit, adjusted for one-time items, amounted to 39 cents a share. That was below the 46 cents a share expected by industry analysts, according to FactSet.

One of its weakest areas was Ford's electric vehicle division, where earnings before interest and taxes fell to a loss of $1.3 billion in the quarter  a significant widening from a $600 million loss in the year-earlier quarter  despite a 29% increase in revenue to $1.8 billion. The company blamed price competition in the sector, but Ford executives stressed that they remain committed to electric vehicles.

Ford said a slowdown in electric vehicle sales and prices has caused it to delay plans to build one of two new joint-venture EV battery factories in Kentucky that was announced two years ago. The company also is trimming Mustang Mach-e production and delaying other spending on EVs totaling $12 billion, Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said.

The company already has placed on hold plans to build another battery plant near Marshall, Michigan.

With a flattening growth curve for EVs, Lawler said, Were going to match demand and capital needed to meet that demand. The company, he explained, may not move on EV plans if it doesnt have to. Its something thats going to adjust as we move and how that business develops, he told analysts.

Farley said the next two generations of EVs will be more aerodynamic, allowing smaller batteries to get longer range and trimming costs. They company also is bringing more EV work in house and designing the vehicles to be manufactured easier.

Ford also said that warranty costs took about $1.2 billion from its pretax earnings from July through September, something that Farley has been trying to get under control since he started as CEO in October of 2020. About $300 million of the costs came from higher repair prices due to inflation, but $900 million was in warranty claims, Lawler said.

Farley, who this month appointed Kumar Galhotra as chief operating officer to help stem the costs, said the company already is improving in quality and is working to reduce the complexity of its vehicles and make them easier to manufacture.

Ford, he said, is slowing down new vehicle launches to do more testing and improve quality. For example, it delayed the sale date of new F-Series Super Duty Pickups to do more testing. That cost the company $1 billion but will save on future recall costs.

The results came out just a day after Ford reached a tentative contract agreement with the United Auto Workers union. The four-year labor deal, which still has to be approved by 57,000 union members at the company, could bring a close to the unions series of strikes at targeted factories run by Ford, General Motors and Jeep maker Stellantis.

The Ford deal could set the pattern for agreements with the other two automakers, where workers will remain on strike. The UAW called on all workers at Ford to return to their jobs and said that will put pressure on GM and Stellantis to bargain.

We told Ford to pony up, and they did, President Shawn Fain said in a video address to members Wednesday night. He added that Ford put 50% more money on the table than it did before the strike started on Sept. 15.

Shares in Ford Motor Co., which is based in Dearborn, Michigan, were down 3.4% in after-hours trading following the earnings report.

___

Associated Press Auto Writer Tom Krisher in Detroit contributed to this report.
By Joseph White and David Shepardson

(Reuters) -The United Auto Workers (UAW) union reached a tentative labor deal on Wednesday with Ford Motor, the first of Detroit's Big Three car manufacturers to negotiate a settlement to strikes joined by 45,000 workers since mid-September.

The proposed accord, which UAW's leadership must still approve, provides a 25% wage hike over the 4-1/2-year contract, starting with an initial increase of 11%.

The Ford deal, which could help create a template for settlements of parallel UAW strikes against General Motors and Chrysler parent Stellantis, would amount to total pay hikes of more than 33% when compounding and cost-of-living mechanisms are factored in, the UAW said.

"We told Ford to pony up and they did," Fain said in a video post on Facebook, adding that the strike at Ford "has delivered".

In addition to the general wage hike, Fain said the lowest-paid temporary workers would see raises of more than 150% over the contract term and employees would reach top pay after three years. The union also won the right to strike over future plant closures, he said.

The UAW also succeeded in eliminating lower-pay tiers for workers in certain parts operations at Ford - an issue Fain highlighted from the start of the bargaining process, wearing T-shirts with the slogan "End Tiers."

The Ford contract would reverse concessions the union agreed to in a series of contracts since 2007, when GM and the former Chrysler were skidding toward bankruptcy, and Ford was mortgaging assets to stay afloat.

"We know it breaks records," Fain said in a video address Wednesday night. "We know it will change lives. But what happens next is up to you all."

The Detroit automakers have argued that the UAW's demands will significantly raise costs and hobble their electric vehicle ambitions, putting them at a disadvantage when compared to EV leader Tesla and foreign brands such as Toyota Motor, which are non-unionized.

The UAW was preparing to strike at a key Ford facility in Dearborn this week if it had not reached agreement after striking at additional GM and Stellantis facilities this week.

But in an unexpected move that adds pressure on GM and Stellantis, the UAW told Ford workers now on strike to return to their jobs during the ratification process. That means production of Ford Super Duty pickups, Ford Bronco and Explorer SUVs and Ranger trucks could restart this week.

Ford, confirmed the news. "We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations," Ford CEO and President Jim Farley said in a statement. Ford shares rose 2% in after-hours trade.

In statements, GM and Stellantis said Wednesday they are working to secure agreements as soon as possible.

"This lays the groundwork for the next two contracts and they should fall in line fairly quickly because all three were within a narrow gap of each other," Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions.

The UAW ratcheted up pressure on the automakers by striking at each company's most profitable plant - GM's Arlington, Texas assembly plant, Ford's Kentucky heavy-duty pickup factory and Stellantis' Ram pickup plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

The total economic loss from the auto workers' strike has reached $9.3 billon, the Anderson Economic Group said earlier this week.

"I think this will be a positive for the stocks," said portfolio manager Tim Piechowski at ACR Alpine Capital Research, which has $250 million in investment in GM. Detroit Three shares currently reflect a scenario worse than the terms of the tentative agreement, he said.

BARGAINING TABLE

The UAW's campaign for a record contract converged with union efforts in Hollywood and at delivery giant UPS to win big pay increases. It also became the focus of attention by U.S. President Joe Biden and Republican rivals who see Michigan and other auto states as pivotal to their 2024 campaign strategies.

Biden joined Fain on a picket line last month, and praised the tentative agreement in a statement Wednesday night as a "testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table."

Absent from Fain and Browning's summary of the contract terms Wednesday was mention of future pay and unionization at new joint-venture electric vehicle battery factories the Detroit Three are building with Asian partners.

Because they are owned by separate corporate entities, the automakers did not have to include those factories in this round of bargaining. Fain had pushed for assurances that battery plant wages would be comparable to wages at assembly plants, and expressed concern that UAW jobs at Detroit Three combustion powertrain plants would be lost over time to non-union battery operations.

Nonetheless, Harley Shaiken, labor professor at the University of California, Berkeley, saw the deal as one with far-reaching implications. "This is a set of negotiations, historically, where gains made in Detroit would be viewed and adapted by many other industries across the economy," he said.

Former GM shareholder Jeffrey Scharf of Act Two Investors said the bottom line for union chief Fain depended on his ability to expand the union.

"If they can use this as a lever to organize Tesla and companies like that, he's brilliant. If they fail to organize the other companies and the differential causes jobs to go out of Detroit and to the other companies, then he's a failure," Scharf said.

(Reporting by Mrinmay Dey and Shivani Jayesh Tanna in Bengaluru; Writing by Peter Henderson and Sayantani Ghosh; Additional reporting by Abhirup Roy; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Christopher Cushing)
Ford has reached a "tentative agreement on a new labor contract" with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union for the automaker's U.S. operations.

The UAW began its strike of the Detroit Three automakers -- Ford, Stellantis and General Motors -- in mid-September. If successful, Ford will be the first of the three to settle the strikes by 45,000 members.

Ford said it will work on restarting the Kentucky Truck Plant, the Michigan Assembly Plant and the Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and "shipping our full lineup to our customers again," according to the company.

Ford's UAW-represented employees still need to ratify the agreement, but UAW president Shawn Fain seemed optimistic about what he called a "historic victory" during a Facebook Live event Wednesday evening.

Fain said the UAW had taken the strike to a "new phase" this week, hitting the companies with "maximum effect," which spurred Ford to come to the table.

On Monday, the UAW called members to strike at Stellantis' Sterling Heights Assembly plant. The following day, they walked out on General Motors' Arlington Assembly. Fain said the factories were the automakers' biggest and most profitable plants.

"Ford knew what was coming for them on Wednesday if we didn't get a deal," said Fain. "That was checkmate."

Chuck Browning, UAW's vice president, called the tentative agreement a "record contract" and "the most lucrative agreement per member since Walter Reuther was president."

"This deal puts more money on the table than the 2019 agreement, four times over," said Browning.

The tentative agreement includes a general wage increase of 25% over the life of the contract, with Ford UAW workers seeing an immediate 11% wage hike immediately upon ratification. For the cost of living adjustment, top wage rates will increase to about 33% and the starting wage rate will increase to about 68%.

Temp workers will see raises of over 150% over the life of their contracts. Some workers at the Sterling Axle and Rawsonville plants will see a raise of 85% immediately upon ratification.

Browning said the agreement also includes a three-year progression and kills the device of wage tiers at Sterling Axle and Rawsonville. When it comes to retirement, the agreement would add a pension multiplier and provide more retirement for current retiree members with pensions and 401(k)s.

The deal, if ratified, also gives the union the right to strike over plant closures for the first time, according to Browning.

Both GM and Stellantis told TechCrunch they are working with the UAW to also reach tentative agreements as soon as possible.
Workers at Fords Kentucky Truck Plant will soon be back to work after Ford and the United Auto Workers reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract Wednesday, ending a strike that started about two weeks ago at the companys largest factory.

With a tentative deal in place, UAW President Shawn Fain and Ford CEO and President Jim Farley called on all Ford strikers to return to work while the deal is being finalized. In a statement sent to media, Farley said the company is now focused on restarting operations at the Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant.

Its unclear when the Ford Kentucky Truck Plant will be fully operational, but the multiple Louisville media outlets reported workers have a 48-hour grace period to return back to work. Some workers were back in the building Thursday morning, according to Louisville Public Media.

Todd Dunn, the president for UAW local 862, which represents workers at the Kentucky plant, praised his members solidarity over the last two weeks in a statement to the Herald-Leader Thursday.

For the last two weeks, our members here at the Kentucky Truck Plant have been out in rain and shine holding the line fighting for the fair wages and benefits that we need and deserve, Dunn said. The truth is the level of solidarity that I witnessed is something that I have not seen before in my 29-years at UAW and the Kentucky Truck Plant.

He said the deal reached by the negotiators was a historic, life-changing agreement.

Roughly 8,700 workers at the Kentucky Truck Plant joined an ongoing strike in mid-October, delivering the biggest blow to Ford, as Fain described it. In a Wednesday night Facebook live-stream, Fain said the tentative deal is historic and a major victory for the UAW members.

For months weve said that record profits record profits mean record contracts and UAW family, our stand up strike has delivered, Fain said.

How quickly can the Kentucky Truck Plant get up to speed?

Effects from the strike will be felt in the coming weeks because bringing a plant back up to speed is much more difficult than taking it down, according to Bryce Currie, vice president of Ford North Americas manufacturing operations.

Thats not just on the manufacturing plants within Ford, but it goes likewise for our suppliers, Currie previously said. It will be a slow ramp up before we can return back to that level. Were dealing with a cold start.

The workers at the Kentucky Truck Plant walked off the job before a regularly scheduled shift on Oct. 11. KTP is one of the biggest auto plants in the world; it rolls out a new truck every 37 seconds and generates roughly $25 billion in revenue yearly, according to Ford COO Kumar Galhotra. The plant is responsible for roughly 16% of Fords global revenue.

If the plant were a standalone business, it would make more money than Southwest Airlines, Marriott International and Nordstrom, according to Galhotra.

More than 3,000 employees were laid off as of Oct. 22 due to the UAWs strike, according to Ford. More than 1,300 of those layoffs were attributed to the Kentucky Truck Plat strike.

Nearly 20,000 people in total were impacted by the strike, according to Ford.

What do UAW members get in the deal?

The deal includes a 25% general wage increase for workers. Starting wages will increase by 68% and top wage makers will see a 33% increase to their income.

UAW members at Ford will receive more and straight general wage increases over the next four-and-a-half years than we have over the last 22 years combined, UAW Vice President Jake Browning said.

More details about the deal could come out as early as Sunday evening if the UAW National Ford Council approves the tentative agreement. If the vote passes, UAW leaders will host a special Facebook live stream Sunday evening to go over the details of the deal.

Fain said the goal is to have the information about the agreement available digitally Sunday night.

Fain said the UAW was planning on expanding its strike Wednesday, pushing Ford to make an offer the UAW would accept.

We knew we were getting close, but we also knew the companies needed a major push if were going to make sure we got every penny possible in this agreement, Fain said.

The UAW members will have the final say whether or not to accept the offer. There will be multiple local and regional meetings to host discussions and answer questions about the deal with the members. After that, the members will vote on the deal.
The number of Ukrainians killed since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel has once again risen to 22, Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleh Nikolenko said to Ukrainska Pravda on Oct. 26.

Nikolenko said that 19 had been killed in Israel, and three, including two children, were killed in Gaza.

There are also six more wounded in Gaza, half of whom are children. Another 337 Ukrainians in Gaza have requested evacuation, but the Rafah border crossing into Egypt is still closed.

It was previously reported on Oct. 24 that a missile strike had killed the two children in Gaza.

There is another Ukrainian missing in Gaza, Nikolenko said.

As of Oct. 23, more than 500 Ukrainians had been evacuated from Israel.

There have been conflicting reports about the number of Ukrainians killed in Israel and Gaza. Israel's Ambassador to Ukraine, Michael Brodsky, said on Oct. 18 that 23 had been killed, but that figure was refuted the following day by Yevhen Korniichuk, Ukraine's Ambassador in Israel, who said 18 had been confirmed dead.

Read also: Ukrainians trapped in besieged Gaza: We are constantly bombed

Read also: Ukrainians trapped in besieged Gaza: We are constantly bombed

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
One of the defining features of the rise of American neofascism is violence. This is in no way surprising: violence is one of the primary tools that enemies of democracy use to impose their will, undermine institutions, and prevent the types of consensus-seeking that's foundational to a healthy democracy and society. Contrary to what right-wing leaders and their disinformation media would like to suggest, this violence is not on both sides. The data and other evidence show that political violence and extremism in the Age of Trump (and from the late 1980s to the present more generally) is a phenomenon almost exclusive to the right-wing and conservative movement. Donald Trumps coup attempt on Jan. 6 and the terrorist attack by his MAGA zealots on the Capitol serve as the most prominent example.

National security experts and law enforcement are continuing to warn that right-wing political violence as seen on Jan. 6, in mass shootings and other acts of terrorism, hate crimes, and other such actions  up to an including the possibility of a sustained insurgency to remove President Biden and the Democrats from power  is the greatest threat to the countrys domestic safety and security.

As the 2024 Election approaches and Trumps criminal trials continue, the risk of lethal violence by members of the American right wing will only escalate. In all, Trumpism and American neofascism and the types of radicalization and extremism they are both a product of and are encouraging (and spreading) constitute a political, cultural, moral, and public health crisis.

In an attempt to better understand why so many Americans have succumbed to radicalization and extremism in the Age of Trump and beyond, the psychological processes involved, how this is a global problem, and what can be done to escape the spiral of radicalization in American, I recently spoke with Dr. Emily Bashah, a licensed psychologist and author. She is the co-author of Addictive Ideologies: Finding Meaning and Agency When Politics Fail You.

This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length:

Given the state of the world, with all this conflict and tumult, how are you feeling?

As a mother, I am heartbroken. As an Arab Jew, I am heartbroken. As a psychologist, I am looking to science and theory that can give me answers, hope, truth, and a path forward out of this horror. As a forensic psychological expert, I deal with some of the most hardened, ideological, extreme people. I do evaluations mostly in jail or sometimes prison. I have evaluated people who have been found guilty of crimes, heinous acts against children, or women, and convicted of domestic terrorism. Believe it or not, as hard as these interviews often are, I leave them feeling both grateful and hopeful. Because it is clear to me that as individuals, we decide who we are. That free will gives us the ability to decide to become the best version of ourselves or the worst version of ourselves.

This does not mean that there are not terrible conditions that these people are afflicted by that are outside of their control or power. But it offers an important framework based upon self-agency that can be applied to understanding and uncovering the process of becoming extremist. I can tell you that as a psychologist who does both forensic evaluations and clinical psychotherapy, I have interviewed people who came from the worst conditions, and who will spend the rest of their lives in prison for their crimes, but have transformed themselves for the better. Ive also dealt with people who have everything that someone could imagine would be good in life, and their view is incredibly dark, bleak, and negative. The only thing that gives them some solace is the ability to blame someone or something for all their problems.

Im optimistic because I believe in free will, that we dont have to become products of our environments. Though the work is hard, we get to choose our narrative. I personally look for the heroes in our past and present to find inspiration in dark times. While a prisoner in an Auschwitz concentration camp, Viktor Frankl said most prison guards were not sadistic, but there were some who you could see found pleasure in killing or torturing others.

As a clinician and mental health expert, what suggestions do you have for how people can better manage what has been an exhausting last seven or more years here in the United States?

Long-term stress can have deleterious effects on our health. Prolonged exposure to stress has an effect on hypertension, heart disease, stroke, cancer and mental illness.

If youre stressed by the liberal elite," or by Donald Trump, or by any politician, you should start with a recognition that terrifying the public is profitable. All of us need the neocortex to be able to rationalize, and process information using executive functioning skills. But when were stressed and overpowered through a process called the amygdala hijack, we are operating on a flight, fight, freeze response. In this process, our limbic system is activated and overrides our frontal lobe.

So, the nightly news picks a side. They appeal to an audience. And then they intentionally terrify them to keep them watching tomorrow. Politicians and political parties terrify you about the other side to keep you loyal. They take your agency from you and then stand upon it for greater leverage. The only way out of this is to take responsibility for yourself and dont surrender your accountability, responsibility, and personal agency. Think about re-registering as an unaffiliated voter  as recommended by my partner, Paul Johnson, and co-author of our book. Turn off the nightly news if its stressing you and try reading things that have a more in-depth look and critical analysis of problems, so you are not basing your assumptions on emotional reasoning. Be engaged in politics when its time to vote. The rest of the time focuses on the great things that are happening in your life.

As I, and a few others with a public platform, have consistently been trying to warn throughout the Age of Trump and beyond, Americas democracy crisis and ascendant neofascism is also a mental health crisis.

I couldnt agree more.

If the mental health crisis that were talking about is a result of the stress, terror, loss of control, unpredictability, that individuals are experiencing from our current political divisions, then I see this as a psychological crisis in the U.S. This problem stems from not only extremism, but the effect that extremism has on tribalism.

Our current political crisis has created a win/lose mindset. The tribal belief that if one side wins the other side loses. This becomes the politics of resentment, hate, envy, revenge, and assigning fault. We slip consciously or unconsciously into these types of problems, that if unaddressed can begin to look very much like the ones that we are seeing in the Middle East.

All of this creates stress, anxiety, hopelessness, existential threat, collective grief, and paralysis. My other concern is people are secluding their lives with people who either think like them or more extreme forms of it. Households and families are so divided by politics. And all this further differentiates us from artificial categories of friend or foe. Through this process, we lose the ability to exercise communication skills and having difficult conversations with people you disagree with without making it personal and exercising respect, social norms, and preservation of a common ground socially and within the community.

The Age of Trump and the rise of the global right has seen an increase in violence, terrorism, hate crimes, and other antisocial behavior here in the U.S. and abroad. There is also conspiracism, the MAGA political cult behavior, disinformation, echo chambers, and a world where there increasingly seems to be a lack of consensus about basic reality and facts. How are you navigating these forces?

Certainly, we all worry about this. Unfortunately, sometimes these values come in conflict with one another. Heres the hard answer to your questions; If those on the left see this as a problem of the right, this cant be fixed. If those on the right see this as a problem on the left, this cant be fixed. But if we both take responsibility for the excesses of the extremes within our tribe and stay away from moral relativism, whataboutisms, and instead focus on our own accountability, there is hope. This is no different than every person I have dealt with on death row.

I imagine from your questions that both of us are on the Left. Both of us are more worried about the increase in violence, terrorism, hate crimes and other antisocial behaviors. However, I see this as what is my role in making the problem better or worse, and why does the right feel the way they do? As a strong supporter of human rights, equal rights and civil rights, It would be unfair to say that there weren't people in the U.S. who believed that they lost something as those values were moved forward. That something may have been social status, lost a job or a promotion, or even being hired in the first place.

We don't have to give up our values to be empathetic to the other side. And maybe through empathy we look for ways to mitigate their loss. Maybe we quit seeing the world as one of scarcity that results in an us versus them mentality. Maybe we recognize that the abundance of this country has enough to benefit all groups.

Life is much more hopeless if we believe our problems are caused completely by the other side. If one believes this, then nothing that I do can make it better.

What do we know about the process of radicalization? Why do some people succumb to radicalism and others do not? How is radicalization like an addiction?

The definition of an addiction is that you continue doing something harmful to yourself and people you care about, and you cannot stop. One can become addicted to an ideology just as they can become addicted to drugs, alcohol, gambling, or sex.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Part of this addiction is driven by personality type. But there is also a chemical addiction. The need to be right actually creates a biological effect on the body that creates an addiction. When one wins an argument, it releases dopamine and hormones. This, like a drug, causes an artificial high. And this high we want to repeat. It forms the basis for an addiction.

It's important to separate the addicted into at least 2 categories; the extremist and the tribal member. The extremists might also be seen as the afflicted and the tribal members as those who are at risk. I create this distinction both because they react in different ways, but also because the prescription is different.

On the extremists, Im going to give you some bad news. Studies show that once somebody becomes an extremist, trying to confront them with facts or experts can make them more violent. The only real thing we can do to help them is to get them off the topic of politics and get them back onto other important aspects of their life, family, job, etc. And often even there, their ideology eclipses the values of those other things, and they create a reason as to why their job, children, or spouse is so wrong in their view of the world. Thus, becoming more justified in their reasons for taking violent action.

This group probably does not represent more than 3-4% of the public. Some of them have mental disorders. Others are recruited into radicalized organizations. The ability to recruit generally comes from one's sense of loss. But this group is more willing to harm other individuals. Sometimes reputational harm, other times physical harm.

The tribal members are different. This group of people are less willing to harm others. However, these individuals are tied to these extremists through their social identities. In the problems we are addressing in these questions, they are tied to these extremists through political parties. Most members of those political parties are not extremists. They are not willing to commit violence of any type to promote their cause.

Loneliness and social atomization play a large role in why individuals join extremist organizations be it ISIS/ISIL or right-wing paramilitaries and other antidemocracy and hate groups here in the U.S. What do we know empirically?

The sense of loss is a major driver for recruitment. Isolation drives one more towards violence. This might explain why racial minority members are more optimistic than racial majority members. This should be curious because we know that racial majority members are doing better economically than racial minorities. However, as pointed out in the work of Eric Hoffer in the True Believer, mass movements do not come from people who have a lot and want more, and they dont come from people who have nothing and want something, mass movements come from people who had some something and lost a piece of it. Every radical movement utilizes this concept to gain membership: victimhood. They give them an ideology that creates a compact and simple explanation of why that happened.

After that isolation becomes a problem. As one is going through the process of radicalization, it becomes very difficult to have conversations with people who are not a part of the ideology. This in turn creates distance between someone who is being radicalized and those people who care most about them. This makes the more radical influence the only dominant voice they are hearing. That, according to Belangers work, leads to violence.

The FBI still identifies these radical organizations as a very small percentage of the population. But this does not show how these more radical organizations such as the Alt Right, through political organizations, have an ability to expand their numbers.

Hillary Clinton recently suggested that Trumps MAGA cultists need to be deprogrammed. Intervene if you would.

I don't see how Hillary Clinton has any ability to be helpful in healing the country. While I might agree with her on many policy issues, she sees the other side as being without merit. She sees them as being some group of people who have deplorable values.

I also do not believe Donald Trump has the leadership skills to pull our country back together. I am hopeful that we will find the right leader. But more importantly, I am optimistic that there are enough people who want to preserve what they see as being good in Western-style liberal democracy.

What interventions can be made individually and collectively to counter the spiral or radicalization here in the U.S., specifically, and more generally?

Help people know the truth, its not as bad as you think. But you will probably have to turn off the nightly news. Become accountable for your own actions. Know that our partisan ideologies allow us to escape the evils within us. More importantly, over time it allows us to objectify the other side. Find strength through free speech. We do not become stronger by finding a safe place. We become stronger by listening to people we disagree with. Being safe is important. Free speech is more important. Find meaning and purpose. Focus on this instead of happiness. We find this in what you create, who you love and how you serve. Love and forgiveness. We will have to let go of things that were done to us that were harmful. We will have to find ways to love people that today we count as our enemy. See people as people, not as some member of a group. Find a sense of belonging. A common narrative is essential and the one we had for 250 years shows great promise at being able to attract people on the right and left. Its We not Me. We have to be willing to think beyond our ego, frailties, cognitive and prejudices. Try to focus on building a better We.
FILE - Sali Berisha, the leader of the Albanian opposition center-right Democratic Party, injured, speaks after he has been attacked during an anti-government protest held near a summit of European Union leaders and their counterparts from the Western Balkans in the capital Tirana, Albania , on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022. Albanias former prime minister Sali Berisha said Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023 that prosecutors charged him with corruption and money laundering in connection with a land deal involving a Tirana property. (AP Photo/Franc Zhurda, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

TIRANA, Albania (AP)  An Albanian court ruled Thursday that former prime minister Sali Berisha , who is accused of corruption, must report to prosecutors and not leave the country while his case is under investigation.

The ruling came from the country's Special Court on Corruption and Organized Crime, which was created in 2019 to handle corruption and other crime cases involving senior officials.

Last week, the 79-year-old Berisha announced the charges against him and his son-in-law, 50-year-old Jamarber Malltezi, who was arrested on the same charges of corruption and money laundering.

Berisha has said that both he and Malltezi are innocent and that he considers the case politically motivated by the ruling Socialist Party of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Prosecutors allege Malltezi exploited Berishas position as prime minister to buy land in Tirana owned by both private citizens and the countrys defense ministry and build 17 apartment buildings on the land.

The case was made public last Saturday, three years after Interior Minister Taulant Balla, then head of the governing Socialist Partys parliamentary faction, sent a file with allegations against Malltezi and Berisha to the anti-corruption court.

Berisha served as Albanias prime minister from 2005-2013 and as president from 1992-1997. He was reelected as a lawmaker for the Democratic Party in an April 2021 parliamentary election.

Both the United States government in May 2021 and the United Kingdom in July 2022 barred Berisha and close family members from entering their countries because of alleged involvement in corruption, using his power for his own benefit and to enrich his political allies and his family members and interfering in the judiciary.

Since then, Berishas main opposition Democratic Party is in turmoil with different factions fighting for the partys leadership and legal registration.

Fighting corruption has been post-communist Albanias Achilles heel, strongly affecting the countrys democratic, economic and social development. Berisha was the fourth top Albanian official to be barred from entering the United States because of alleged involvement in corruption.

___

Follow Llazar Semini at https://twitter.com/lsemini
Profile: Tang Shengjie -- China's youngest astronaut to enter space station

09:25, October 26, 2023 By Wang Chenxi ( Xinhua

JIUQUAN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China is ready to launch the Shenzhou-17 crewed spaceship on Thursday, with Tang Shengjie, the country's youngest astronaut to enter the space station, serving as one of its crew members.

"It is a great honor and great duty for me, and I feel very lucky and very happy," Tang said when meeting the press Wednesday at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

Born into a farming family in December 1989 in northwest China's Gansu Province, Tang often helped his mother do farm work, and he learned to plow the land at a very young age.

It took him a long time to walk to his school along a mountain road and he had to do so for eight years.

From a young age, Tang had shown considerable hands-on ability. Every time when the family bought a new electrical appliance, he would take it apart and tinker with it. Villagers often asked Tang to repair their broken electrical appliances.

After graduation from high school, he entered China's Aviation University of Air Force and became a fighter pilot. After nearly 13 years of service, he had flown six types of aircraft.

In 2018, China began to recruit its third batch of astronauts. Tang signed up for it. In September 2020, he was included in the third batch of astronauts.

Thanks to his childhood hobby of tinkering with electrical appliances, Tang proved good at the professional skills training needed by astronauts. Every time there was an operational course, Tang would feel very excited.

For example, during underwater training designed for extravehicular activities, he had to wear a heavy underwater suit and conduct simulated weightlessness training for five or six hours, while doing operation activities requiring extensive use of his upper limbs.

After training, he was often too fatigued to hold chopsticks. But he never got tired of training.

Two years of hard training finally earned him a ticket to space. In June 2022, Tang was selected as a crew member for the Shenzhou-17 mission.

Tang loves photography. Now he is looking forward to watching the blue planet from a different perspective in space and recording the wonders of the universe.

"What I think about more is how to complete the tasks, get scientific experiment results, do explorations, and make some contributions to the manned space mission and scientific development of our country," said Tang, when talking about the coming space mission.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Former child star Adam Wylie , best known for his role on  Picket Fences , was arrested this month for shoplifting at Target.

The 39-year-old magician and Broadway alum  who had a role in Into the Woods  was cited for petty theft after store security stopped him outside a Burbank Target, Burbank police told TMZ.

The Under Wraps actor tried to snatch over $100 of health and beauty items from a display shelf on Oct. 13, per the outlet.

While Wylie reportedly paid for some of his Target haul at the self-checkout machine, there were still unpaid for items valued at $108 in his bags, according to TMZ.

Wylie starred as Zachary in David E. Kelleys CBS drama, Picket Fences, which aired from 1992 to 1996. The show  which also starred Kathy Baker, Tom Skerritt, Lauren Holly and, eventually, Don Cheadle  took home 14 Emmys. During this time, Wylie had a voice role in the animated flick, The Swan Princess, and later, in the 1999 animated adaptation of The King and I.

Wylie appeared last year as Bueller in Disney Channel flick Under Wraps 2, a sequel to the networks 1997 movie, Under Wraps, in which he starred as Gilbert.
EXCLUSIVEFormer Republican North Carolina Congressman Mark Walker is dropping out of the Tar Heel states gubernatorial race and is launching his bid for North Carolinas 6th Congressional district.

"As much as we would like to be the ambassador of the state and the chief executive, we feel almost like that our skill set, our experience, our background is needed here in the United States Congress," Walker tells Fox News Digital. "The highest rated conservative to be elected to leadership in Congress. That's a pretty strong voting record."

Mark Walker of North Carolina

NORTH CAROLINA BECOMING 2024 BATTLEGROUND FOR DEMOCRATS VYING TO RECLAIM SWING STATE TRUMP WON IN 2020

Walker was running against North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, who is considered the frontrunner in the race and is endorsed by former President Trump.

However, the former congressman believes Robinson may not have the statewide appeal in a divided background state, given his comments about womens roles and the LGBT community.

"I would be disingenuous to say that you can just throw out all those comments. They are problematic," said Walker. "Sometimes targeting different communities is not just bad for politics, but it's bad for when it comes to leadership."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The former congressman has "not finalized" who he will be endorsing at this point but will throw his support behind a candidate with "character and substance."

"We want to see the pros and cons. For us, it's about who's the best candidate to make sure that we never turn things over to Josh Stein," said Walker.

Walker, a pastor from Greensboro and owner of a business consulting firm, rose the ranks in Congress from 2014-2021, leading the Republican Study Committee and becoming the vice chair for the House Republican Conference.

Once floated as a potential successor to Speaker Paul Ryan, Walker lost his political footing after redistricting eliminated his GOP-leaning House seat in 2020. Then, the former congressman finished third in the 2022 Republican U.S. Senate primary to current Senator Ted Budd.

"I'm now 54, not 44 when I first ran for Congress," said Walker. " But I think that seasoning, that maturity, continues to help build the kind of leadership and experience that's needed."

Now, Walker hopes to defeat Democrat incumbent Kathy Manning and return to his district covering the Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point areas.

"We've been serving the people of North Carolina for 25, almost 27 years. The bulk of that time was as a pastor," said Walker.

Manning won the district with nearly 54 percent of the vote in 2022 against Republican candidate Christian Castelli. Nonetheless, Manning, along with Reps. Jeff Jackson and Wiley Nickel, face tough reelection prospects with new state maps released Monday.

GOP SET TO GAIN 3 US HOUSE SEATS UNDER MAP ADVANCED IN NC SENATE

"These maps were created for one purpose only: to ensure Republicans win more House seats so that they can maintain control of the U.S. House of Representatives," Manning said in a statement on October 19. "They are not a reflection of the best interests of North Carolinians but rather an offering to the national Republican Party."

The North Carolina primary is scheduled for March 5, 2024. The general election will occur on November 5, 2024.





Original article source: Former Congressman Mark Walker drops out of North Carolina gubernatorial race to launch Congressional bid
A former PTO president at a Newton County elementary school who was accused of using nearly $20,000 of school funds for personal use is now facing criminal charges.

Channel 2s Michael Doudna reported during WSB Tonight in late September that Kaci Marks, the longtime PTO President at East Newton Elementary School, was under investigation by the school district.

Earlier this week, Marks was arrested and charged with theft by conversion. She has since bonded out of the Newton County Jail.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Channel 2 Action News obtained the financial records through an open records request. The records included bank statements detailing payments from the PTO account.

The bank records show that PTO funds were used on a phone bill, Hulu and Amazon. She also allegedly spent more than $18,000 on purchases from Carlstedts, a wholesale florist in Atlanta, and more than $1,000 worth of pottery.

TRENDING STORIES:

According to social media, Marks owns a business called Kacis Kreations, a florist specializing in weddings, proms and other special events.

Doudna called and texted Marks several times for comment before the initial story and even went to her home, but never received a response.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]




Authorities on Wednesday arrested a former corrections officer who is accused of illegally trafficking fake pills laced with fentanyl from Louisiana to the Mississippi Coast, the Hancock County Sheriffs office said.

The sheriffs office charged Tempest Ariana Martin, 20, of Diamondhead with conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, according to a press release.

The sheriffs office said Martin and a co-conspirator who is still at large bought large quantities of counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl from Covington, Louisiana, and sold them in Hancock County.

Martin is a former corrections officer for the Hancock County Sheriffs Office, the department said in the release. Martin also worked as a 911 dispatcher for Hancock County Central Dispatch, but the release said she resigned from both roles after her arrest.

The sheriffs office said an investigation showed Martin and the unnamed co-conspirator spent several months trafficking fentanyl-laced pills into South Mississippi. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is increasingly added to other drugs because of its heroin-like effect. It is 50 times stronger than heroin, 100 times stronger than morphine and can kill unsuspecting users with even a small dose, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Martins arrest came after authorities arrested and charged a Mexican national on Tuesday with transporting nine kilograms of fentanyl in his vehicle on Interstate 10 in Gulfport. The U.S. Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Mississippi said those drugs, in powder form, were worth $540,000.

Authorities set Martins bond at $25,000 before her initial appearance in Hancock County Justice Court, the release said. The sheriffs department did not release further details and said additional arrests are pending.

Mary Perez contributed reporting.
A golf course borders Cedar Creek, a tributary of the South Llano River, in Junction. A former oil executive has abandoned his plan to build a private dam on the river. Credit: Eli Hartman/The Texas Tribune

After months of opposition by communities along the Llano River, the former CEO of Houston-based energy company Phillips 66 has withdrawn his permit application to build a private dam on his ranch in Edwards County, according to state environmental regulators.

Greg Garland 's Waterstone Creek LLC had sought state permission to dam the South Llano River in an application filed five years ago. The permit, if approved, would have allowed the LLC to create a pond roughly equal to six olympic-sized swimming pools.

The dam would have been the first private dam built in the Llano River watershed since 1976  and the first built for recreational purposes like swimming, boating and fishing. At a public meeting about the application that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality held in August, Garland said the pools purpose was to promote more wildlife and fish on his property.

The agency received a letter from Peter T. Gregg, a representative for Waterstone Creek LLC, with a formal request to withdraw Garlands application on Oct. 18, a day after The Texas Tribune published a story on the dam controversy.

Gregg and Garland did not respond to requests for comment.

The dam is dead, the dam is dead, said Linda Fawcett, president of the Llano River Watershed Alliance and a resident of Junction who lives about 60 miles southwest of Greggs property.

Fawcett and others along the river had expressed concerns about the proposed construction of a private dam along the South Llano River. They said it would start a domino effect of property owners building more private dams, which could alter the river's natural flow and send less water into the Highland Lakes.

Up and down the Llano River, local officials also had spoke out against the possible privatization of a section of a public river.

Kimble, Mason and Llano counties, which all rely on the river as their water source, passed resolutions in 2022 urging the TCEQ to deny the dam permit, citing the ongoing drought. A private dam will seize the flow during sustained dry periods and have an adverse effect on the downstream flow of the river, the resolutions said.

Fawcett said the collective effort of local politicians, activists and residents helped prevent the dam from happening.

We love nature, we love the river and we want it in its natural state. I thank Mr. Garland for giving us a reason to unite, Fawcett said.
EVANSVILLE  A former owner of a popular Evansville social media site has been arrested and preliminarily charged with murder after two men were found shot to death in a West Side home Sunday afternoon.

But police don't believe he was the man who pulled the trigger.

Richard Dee Garrett, 30, was booked into the Vanderburgh County jail just before 1 a.m. Thursday. He's been charged with two counts of murder, as well as robbery, assisting a criminal, and obstruction of justice stemming from the deaths of Evansville man Michael Blankenship Jr., 31, and 37-year-old Mitchell Greathouse, of Newburgh.

According to the probable cause affidavit filed in the case, police believe Garrett served as the driver for two other people, including the reported shooter. As of Thursday morning, the other persons hadn't been arrested or publicly identified.

Garrett reportedly told police he believed the two others were going to commit a robbery, not a murder.

This isn't the first deadly shooting in which Garrett has been involved.

He previously admitted to shooting and killing 29-year-old Douglas Todd Fulkerson at Garrett's home in 2021, but said it was in self-defense. He eventually pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine after police found drugs in the home, but he was never directly charged in Fulkerson's death.

Indiana Secretary of State records list Garrett as the CEO of Evansville 411 News: a Facebook page with more than 66,000 followers that posts updates about area businesses.

In 2022, in the comments section of a previous Courier & Press story about Garrett, Evansville 411 News wrote that Garrett no longer worked for the company.

"The filing of the page under their 'business' was done without the other administrators' consent, as we do the actual work for the page," they said.

Suspects seen on security cameras

According to the affidavit, detectives obtained a search warrant for the Mount Vernon Avenue home. There, they found a DVR system tied to a set of security cameras outside.

Footage from around 7:50 p.m. Saturday showed a "white male wearing a red hooded sweatshirt, black pants, and black gloves run toward the door of Blankenship's room," the affidavit reads. "He appeared to have a handgun in his possession.

"At approximately (7:51), the male exited the room hastily and ran toward the alley behind the residence."

Investigators canvassed the neighborhood for additional security footage and reportedly obtained video showing a white vehicle park in a nearby neighborhood with three men inside.

One of them, who police believe to be the shooter, climbed from the front passenger seat, while a "lookout" got out of the back. They then "moved toward the location of the murders," the affidavit reads, while the driver remained inside.

Although the affidavit doesn't go into detail, it says the car had a "distinguishable mark" that allowed them to spot it in other cameras across the city. That mark eventually led them to Garrett.

Police reportedly found blood on the outside of the car. And once they obtained a search warrant, more was discovered inside as well, the affidavit reads. It also contained walkie-talkies and "while reviewing surveillance footage, detectives overheard radio communication consistent with a police scanner coming from the suspect vehicle."

Garrett was taken to EPD headquarters for questioning.

Passengers changed clothes, had a gun

Garrett reportedly told police an acquaintance had asked him for a ride on Saturday night.

He picked up two people near Leroy's Tavern, which is in the same block as the home in which Greathouse and Blankenship were found.

After a short drive, Garrett said they stopped outside a business, where the two others changed clothes and put on masks and gloves. They then drove to West Virginia Street and parked outside a home.

Garrett told police he saw the front passenger take a handgun out of a backpack before they climbed out of the car. Once the passengers were gone, he said he heard "several gunshots moments later," the affidavit states.

When the passengers returned, he said they were out of breath, and that the front passenger "appeared to have blood on him."

He said he dropped off the two passengers at a home on Mary Street.

'Various opportunities to back out'

According to police, Garrett denied that the walkie-talkies found in the car had anything to do with the crime. He also admitted he'd been listening to a police scanner at the time, "but could not give a good reason for doing so."

"Richard acknowledged that he believed the two subjects were going to commit a robbery given their actions and attire. Given the totality of the circumstances and the facts known to Richard, he absolutely knew that a serious crime was going to be committed and had various opportunities to back out," the affidavit reads. "Still, he assisted and waited as heinous crimes were carried out at (the home).

"After he learned from a news release that a double murder had occurred, he did not contact law enforcement and acted to conceal and dispose of blood evidence from the involved vehicle."

According to court records, a hearing for Garrett was scheduled for 1 p.m. Thursday in Vanderburgh Circuit Court.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Ex-owner of popular Evansville social media site charged with murder
A candidate for Plainfield mayor in 2021 has been criminally charged with directing associates to complete hundreds of fake voter registration cards that were mailed to Union County election officials.

Dr. Henrilynn Ibezim, 68, was charged with election fraud, a second-degree crime, after allegedly bringing a trash bag filled with nearly 1,000 fake voter registrations to the post office to mail to the Union County Commissioner of Registration, Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced Wednesday.

Ibezim also has been charged with criminal attempt to commit false registration or transfer, tampering with public records, forgery and hindering apprehension or prosecution, all third-degree crimes, and falsifying or tampering with records, a fourth-degree crime, Platkin said.

A message left for Ibezim at the number listed on his 2021 Facebook campaign page has not been returned.

Dr. Henrilynn Ibezim's 2021 campaign card

The charges stem from an investigation by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountabilitys (OPIA) Corruption Bureau.

Ibezim allegedly directed associates and campaign volunteers, who gathered at his home, to complete blank voter registration applications based off one or more forms with voter information he provided to the group, according to Platkin.

The investigation indicated Ibezim arrived at the post office on North Broad Street in Elizabeth on May 18, 2021, carrying a large white garbage bag containing 954 voter registration applications, allegedly from Plainfield voters, Platkin said. The investigation found many of the applications had the same handwriting on them, Platkin said.

Election 2023: Voting has begun in NJ. Here are three ways to cast your ballot in this fall's election

Ibezim, who ran on the Unity Candidate slate in the June 2021 Plainfield Democratic primary for mayor, received an unofficial 80 votes. He was defeated by three other candidates including Mayor Adrian Mapp, the top vote getter in the primary who ran unopposed in the general election. Ibezim had previously run for mayor in 2017.

During the OPIA investigation, Ibezim gave a recorded statement to detectives in which he allegedly falsely claimed that other individuals had sold the false registration applications to him, Platkin said.

Attempting to tamper with an election result through fraud impairs the ability of legitimate voters to choose their representatives, a cornerstone of American democracy, Platkin said in a press release announcing the charges. It also undermines the legitimacy of government and the publics confidence in their elected officials and in elections generally. My office will vigorously pursue these crimes to protect New Jerseys electorate from being defrauded and to safeguard the integrity of our institutions.

"This desperate attempt to artificially and illegally inflate support for his candidacy was designed to not only cheat his political opponents out of a victory, but also to cheat the people of Plainfield out of their right to choose their elected officials, added Thomas J. Eicher, OPIA executive director.

Email: srussell@gannettnj.com

Suzanne Russell is a breaking news reporter for MyCentralJersey.com covering crime, courts and other mayhem. To get unlimited access, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Plainfield NJ former mayoral candidate charged with election fraud
Berdyansk

The Ukrainian resistance movement blew up a car carrying four Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) representatives in the occupied city of Berdyansk, Zaporizhzhya Oblast, on Oct. 23, Ukraines military intelligence service HUR reported on Telegram on Oct. 26.

According to HUR, the attack was characterized as an act of revenge, and took place near the Jasmine Guest House on Michurin Street, where the FSB agents were staying.

"A Russian war criminal who brutally tortured local Ukrainian citizens was among the occupiers eliminated in Berdyansk, HUR reported.

Read also:

In response to the attack, Russian occupation authorities in the area requested the Russian military to extend curfews throughout the occupied territory  from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. The attack also forced the remaining FSB agents to relocate to new premises, HUR added.

Earlier, on Oct. 20, Ukrainian partisans blew up a car carrying Russian looters in the occupied port city of Melitopol.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Hundreds of Dallas-Fort Worth residents will be able to get free medical, vision, and dental care in November thanks to the return of a traveling clinic that will operate for two days in Fort Worth.

The Remote Area Medical clinic will be at the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1701 W. Boyce Ave., in Fort Worth on Nov. 4 and 5. This is the clinics third year in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Established in 1985, RAM travels throughout the world providing free health care to those in need. In a typical year, the clinic will go to more than 60 locations throughout the U.S., said Audra FitzGerald, RAMs senior clinic coordinator.

The nonprofit, which is based in Tennessee, will bring a staff of core volunteers and equipment to its location. The Fort Worth clinic will be operated in partnership with the UNT Health Science Center.

Clinic services are available on a first-come, first-served basis to children or adults. Patients do not need to bring any identification or qualifying documents to receive services. All patients can receive medical care, but patients must choose between either vision or dental care. All services are free.

On both Nov. 4 and Nov. 5, the clinic will begin serving patients at 6 a.m. The patient parking lot will open by 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 3. If you decide to line up overnight, FitzGerald recommends bringing any medications you might need, as well as enough food and water to last during your waiting period. If you are in need of dental care, you should get in line early as dental services as typically in high demand, FitzGerald said.

Services available include dental cleanings, dental fillings, dental extractions, dental X-rays, eye exams, eye health exams, eyeglass prescriptions, eyeglasses made on-site, womens health exams and general medical exams, according to a news release from the nonprofit.
This fall, in addition to welcoming back PSLs, Uggs and scarves, many Americans have also had to also accept a more unwelcome, less cozy thing back into their lives: student loans. To soften the blow to their wallets, a major pizz chain has introduced a unique offer.

On Oct. 25, Dominos Pizza announced its giving away $1 million worth of free pizzas to anyone with student loan payments through a program called Dominos Emergency Pizzas for Student Loans.

The deal is a new part of its recent Emergency Pizza promotion which provides a free medium two-topping pizza with qualifying digital order of $7.99 or more, redeemed within 30 days of claiming the offer.

Dominos announced that its giving away $1 million worth of free pizzas to anyone with student loan payments named Dominos Emergency Pizzas for Student Loans. (Courtesy Dominos)

Student loan payments have resumed for millions of Americans, and we wanted to help in our own little way by using the power of pizza to do something nice for our customers, said Kate Trumbull, Dominos senior vice president and chief brand officer, in a press release. When life gives you loans, Dominos gives you free pizza!

Dominos Emergency Pizzas for Student Loans program is different from the original program in a few ways. First, theres no purchase necessary for this one, just a visit to a dedicated website where folks will have the chance to apply for a free medium two-topping pizza. Also, this student loan-oriented pizza can be scored in addition to earning a free Emergency Pizza. Thats two pizzas for the price of none if Sallie Mae has been knocking at your door.

Dominos is offering customers pizza as financial comfort food. (Courtesy Dominos)

Starting Oct. 25, Dominos will be giving away a limited number of free Emergency Pizza for Student Loans codes each day until all $1 million worth of free pizza codes  or 67,205 free pizzas  have been claimed. That exact number is 4,200 codes a day, which its website says is worth $62,000, or about two-thirds of one years tuition at an Ivy League school.

How to sign up to get free pizza

To score a Dominos Emergency Pizza for Student Loans deal, just visit Dominos deal page and fill out the application. Customers dont need to belong to the rewards program but still must verify the email address they provide.

If codes are available on that day, youll receive an email with the free pizza code, which can be redeemed on your next online carryout or delivery order placed within 30 days. Please note that in order to redeem the free pizza for delivery, you need to meet the stores delivery minimum requirements.

The first days codes were claimed as expeditiously as folks signing up for student loan forgiveness, but not to worry: Dominos says that if you receive a message that codes are no longer available for the day, you have the chance to try again. Until Nov. 9, fans can score one of the daily codes starting at 12:00 p.m. EST.

To apply for Dominos Emergency Pizza for Student Loans program or to get more information about the program, visit dominos.com/student-loans.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Marjaree Mason Center (MMC) is encouraging the public to join their make-up-free social media campaign to uncover the topic of domestic violence and support survivors.

Organizers with the #MakeupFreeforMMC initiative say it was developed by an agency employee several years ago when she noticed that women affected by domestic violence will often cover the signs of physical abuse with makeup, and even cover the emotional, mental, and other forms of abuse by hiding their feelings and making others believe they are fine.

According to officials, these women might feel embarrassed about being a victim of domestic violence, they might think it was a one-time occurrence and the abuser wont do it again or they might be worried their abusers will hurt them more if they tell others.

Whatever the reason may be, this campaign aims to uncover the abuse, encourage women to be proud of themselves for who they are, spread awareness of domestic violence in the community, and let others know about the resources available to them, including the Marjaree Mason Center.

The social media campaign will start on Thursday, Oct. 26. Anyone from the community can participate by taking a photo of themselves without makeup on and posting it to social media with #MakeUpFreeforMMC.

Officials say to further support the survivors of domestic violence in the community, donations of any amount can be made on the MMC website by clicking here.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Showers and thunderstorms continued to roll through the Kansas City area Thursday, but the chance of rain is expected to taper off as the day progresses, according to the National Weather Service in Kansas City.

Rain chances will be greatest through this morning for most, the weather service said, pinning the possibility of rain at 60 to 70%.

By noon, rain chances are expected to fall to 20 to 30% in the Kansas City metro area. Conditions in the afternoon are expected to remain unseasonably warm with temperatures climbing into the mid-70s. Normal temperatures for this time of year in Kansas City are in the low 60s.

A strong cold front is expected to move through the region Thursday night and Friday morning the possibility of another round of storms. There is a 40 to 60% chance of rain for most in the Kansas City area through the morning and afternoon, the weather service said.

Local Radar Image

Conditions, however will begin to dry out in the afternoon and an evening hours. Additional rainfall is expected to be a trace to .25 inches through Friday.

The front, however, will usher in much colder air. Temperatures on Friday are expected to reach the mid-50s with temps dropping into the 30s overnight.

Another round of storms are expected to push through the area Saturday, bringing the possibly of cold rain as temperatures will only climb into the 40s. The greatest chances of rain, 70 to 100%, will be Saturday night into Sunday morning, according to the weather service.

An additional .25 to .50 inches of rain is possible. Temperatures will tumble to around freezing overnight Saturday.

Because the cold, there is a 40 to 50% chance of a rain and snow mix across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas.

Very minor accumulations may be possible although moisture is expected to be meager as temperatures drop, the weather service said in its forecast discussion.

Cold conditions are expected to carry over into next week, with the coldest temperatures expected Sunday through Wednesday. A hard freeze is expected across the Kansas City, which will bring an end to the growing season.

Temperatures be in the mid-30s in Kansas City on Sunday and in the low to mid-40s Monday through Thursday.

For those celebrating Halloween outdoors, trick-or-treaters should plan on having warm costumes. Temperatures are expected to be a few degrees above freezing between 6 and 9 p.m. Tuesday.
More than 2,000 substitute teachers, who the district said were at the ready to handle classroom duties in the event of a strike, might not be crossing picket lines if Fresno teachers go on strike next week, according to their union.

Fresno Unified School District issued an email statement, saying the SEIU 521 - Fresno Area Substitute Teachers Association (FASTA) union had agreed to support the district if the Fresno Teachers Association (FTA) went on strike on Nov. 1.

Fresno Unified is deeply disappointed by this weak showing of FASTAs leadership bending to the larger will of SEIU non-local leadership, the district stated.

Fresno Unified claims FASTA completely changed its course and violated its agreement, telling its members not to cross picket lines. The district is now filing an injunction and unfair practice charge against the substitutes union for bad faith bargaining and violating the contract FASTA previously bargained and signed, its statement reads.

The district said the substitute teachers union had a vote of less than 2% of its membership, and thus FASTAs message doesnt represent the thousands of substitutes they represent.

The Fresno Bee reached out to the FASTAs local Fresno office. Though there wasnt someone available to comment on Thursday morning, FASTA president Esther Rojas-Jasso issued a statement through an FTA email update.

This week, our FASTA chapter membership voted unanimously to support FTA and encourage our substitute teacher members not to cross strike picket lines in solidarity, Rojas-Jasso stated.

Rather than addressing the severe and very real obstacles hurting students in our classrooms, the District is attempting to pin workers against each other and using intimidation tactics to break a potential strike, she said. The Fresno Teachers Associations (FTA) fight for a fair and just contract is also our fight.

In a call with The Bee, FTA president Manuel Bonilla said the substitute teachers support is an incredible display of solidarity.

Our regular guest and substitute teachers understand the issues were trying to address because they face them when theyre in our classrooms, Bonilla said.

Over 3,000 members of Fresno Teachers Association met to vote for strike authorization at the Paul Paul Theater Wednesday evening, Oct. 18, 2023 in Fresno.

Will student teachers remain in Fresno Unified classrooms?

Its not immediately clear how the strike will impact hundreds of student teachers from Fresno State and Fresno Pacific Universities.

As of 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Bonilla said he hadnt received any formal communication from either Fresno State or Fresno Pacific University regarding the role of student teachers if the FTA goes on strike.

Bonilla said the institutions should pull their student teachers out of classrooms if the strike starts next week and encourages future teachers to learn about teacher unions and key issues like the ones the FTA is bargaining for.

According to a statement shared with The Bee by Fresno Pacific University, Darrell Blanks, interim director of teacher education, said that they would suspend all student teaching assignments within Fresno Unified in the event of a strike. They also encouraged student teachers to make an independent, professional decision on whether or not to serve as substitute teachers during the strike.

In an email statement to The Bee, Fresno State officials said theyve developed a proactive plan in consultation with FTA and FUSD to ensure continuity of learning activities for over 500 students fulfilling their student teaching requirements in Fresno Unified classrooms.

Our students well-being and the ability to fulfill all requirements to earn their credentials remain our highest priority, Fresno State spokesperson Lauren Nickerson said.

After FTAs strike authorization vote in 2017, Fresno State said it would pull all student teachers from FUSD classrooms in the event of a work stoppage.
Test of the Vilkha-M multiple launch rocket system

Glib Kanievskyi, the head of the Kyiv-based think tank StateWatch, explained in an interview with NV Radio on Oct. 25 why Ukrainian defense enterprises are asking the government to protect them from attacks by state auditors and law enforcement due to an alleged mistake in a government document.

NV: You said that the inspection of the State Audit Service of Ukrainian arms and ammunition manufacturers causes concern. And secondly, in your opinion, Russias Federal Security Service (FSB) has hacked the Ukrainian state control and audit service. These are quite grave accusations or even assumptions. How did you arrive at these conclusions? And whats wrong, from your point of view, with the State Audit Service?

Kanievskyi: Lets break it down for everyone so that my statement about the FSB becomes clearer.

Read also: SBU exposes draft dodging corruption scheme

First of all, the State Audit Service reviews defense contracts during martial law to determine their effectiveness or ineffectiveness. To put it simply: whether budget funds were effectively spent on secret direct contracts that were urgently concluded without procurement procedures during martial law to provide the Armed Forces of Ukraine with ammunition, missiles, weapons, etc. [This includes] both foreign suppliers and Ukrainian manufacturers.

As for Ukrainian manufacturers, unlike foreign suppliers, there is a special price agreement procedure, which is regulated by the Cabinet. That is, if we dont have procurement procedures, but have direct contracts, we have a limited range of manufacturers. We understand that there are actually only a few manufacturers of combat drones and ammunition in Ukraine, both in the public or private sector. There can be no competition for some positions. Therefore, the price should be regulated by the Cabinet.

Accordingly, it was with the state arms and ammunition manufacturers that the problem occurred during the state audit.

At the beginning of [Russias] military invasion, to somehow regulate this price (there are no auctions, there are no procedures, there is a need, and there is money) so that it doesnt go up, so that the state doesnt suffer [economic] losses, the Cabinet issued a decree that clearly defined what should be the price of the contract under which the Defense Ministry or other security bodies have the right to purchase weapons and ammunition.

And this is where the first failure occurred in the state contract system. Because somehow it happened (for some reason no one in the Cabinet can explain this now) that it was in this price chain that they forgot to include such a component as profit. The profit of a specific arms and ammunition manufacturer, which he can count on during trade with the Defense Ministry or other authorities. Despite the fact that in all previous similar documents, for previous periods, of course, the profit was a distinct component of the contract price.

Read also: Jacket procurement scandal: UP journalist Tkach responds to Defense Ministers wager

It might seem like an obvious thing that profit must be in any contract. Because thats how a market economy works, and it cannot work otherwise, regardless of whether its a public or private supplier. But here this stumbling block appeared.

The State Audit Services management was invited by the then-Defense Minister [Oleksii] Reznikov to check these contracts so that Reznikov could show the society and international partners, and his managers in the Presidents Office that the funds were spent efficiently. Reznikov invited the auditors to check, and the auditors came with an inspection.

But the auditors began to literally take on this resolution, to interpret it in such a way that no producer, whether state or private, when this resolution was in force on the territory of Ukraine during martial law, has the right to make a profit from the [state] budget.

Of course, both the Defense Ministry and the Cabinet now insist that the arms and ammunition suppliers had the right to expect a profit. Do you know what would happen without profit? No one would sign a contract in March, in April 2022, i.e., at the hottest peaks of confrontation with Russia, when it was necessary to oust them from Kyiv Oblast, while international weapons had not yet arrived. We had to rely on our own capacity.

[Otherwise, if the contracts were without profit], there wouldnt be a single contract. State auditors would simply have nothing to check.

NV: And what was left for the State Audit Service? To interpret the resolution in a different way? If it states that no profit is provided for...

Kanievskyi: It doesnt state that its provided or not provided. The profit simply doesnt go separated by commas there as a component of the contract price.

Read also: Media investigation uncovers tripled costs of clothing shipment for Ukraine's army

Why do I say that our state control system is broken, and the FSB now doesnt need to make any special efforts to get the pick of the basket from this problem? Because the State Audit Service, instead of trying to solve this problem at the stage when it was at least recorded, with the beginning of the first audits, raised this issue with the Cabinet that thats what happened, the resolution was adopted, its ineffective, it must be changed quickly, they would already start conducting audits there... I emphasize the Defense Ministry and the Cabinet in this situation take the position that the audit service interprets the resolution incorrectly.

The problem of building a missile plant is really a problem, because how to build it, when we havent built plants to produce missiles for 30 years, we have neither specialists, nor technologies, we have nothing. This is really a problem that needs to be worked on. And here the problem is that they forgot to include the phrase in the resolution. And the government, the parliament are working on this problem, they even wrote a letter to the head of the Presidents Office of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, asking him to at least look into this problem and solve it. And no one can solve it.

NV: The manufacturers immediately understood who could decide it.

Kanievskyi: But no one has solved it yet. And look what we have. The audit service conducts its inspections. And instead of really counting the funds, whether they were effectively or ineffectively used, the auditors stick with this stumbling block, which is in fact meaningless. But at the same time, it allows state auditors to write their reports, and to write that the state has suffered billions of hryvnias in losses, because something was not specified in the [Cabinet] decree.

And it seems that the State Audit Service is working. It fulfilled its mission, checked the contracts. After that, the State Audit Service writes statements to law enforcement agencies, the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI), the police: Open criminal proceedings, because the state has suffered billions in losses here.

And theyre happy to open proceedings. Because its also a very easy matter for them. There are auditors, there are appeals from auditors, there is some amount worth billions of hryvnias, and its possible to issue endless press releases about the victory of investigators and prosecutors over corruption in Ukraine. Although, of course, no one will ever check whether there were any verdicts, whether there were any investigations, or whether they brought any benefit to the state.

NV: But the State Audit Service is accountable to the PM, the government, right?

Kanievskyi: Yes, to the finance minister, Mr. [Serhiy] Marchenko, and to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal.

NV: There is a certain clear chain of command here. But cant it be solved simply by a decree, an order, a phone call?

Kanievskyi: As it turns out, no. This cannot be resolved even after a parliamentary resolution. Imagine, during martial law, the entire parliament, all 400 lawmakers have to deal with this problem, heroically trying to solve it. As we know, they havent solved it yet.

Read also: Increased instances of sabotage within Russias FSB  report

Because now the State Audit Service interprets... And this is also correct: everything happens within the law and in accordance with the Constitution of Ukraine. Why do I say that the FSB hacked our state control and management system? Because everything that is happening now isnt a violation, that someone from the State Audit Service rudely violates the law, breaks the law. No, everything is done in accordance with the current laws, in accordance with the current Constitution of Ukraine.

The State Audit Service says: Parliament passed the resolution in July 2023. Parliament, of course, well done, but everything that happened before July 2023 from March 2022, when the decree was in force, has no retroactive effect. Accordingly, from March 2022 to July 2023, this is all violations. And well continue to check, determine the damage, and submit it to law enforcement agencies.

And now look, if no joke, going back to the story with the FSB. What should the FSB do now? First of all, it should receive all the information about our relocated state and private arms and ammunition manufacturing enterprises, which are now recorded in audits.

Previously, for example, only [state defense concern] Ukroboronprom and the Defense Ministry knew about arms and ammunition manufacturers. And its not all thousands of officials at the Defense Ministry, but one department that works completely secretly and that is responsible for weapons and military equipment. Only this department knew what, from whom, where and how it purchases, who and what manufactures. That is, this was a limited circle of people who can really be controlled so that this information somehow doesnt go beyond this department and beyond a specific Ukroboronprom department and officials, private manufacturers, who are responsible for preserving state secrets. So that this unique, sensitive information about our products, design studies, and the Defense Ministrys contracts doesnt go beyond this narrow circle of specialists and doesnt get to the enemy.

But now this information is available to the auditors. They actively write letters to law enforcement agencies, SBI investigators, National Police investigators, and SBU [security service] investigators. The prosecutors office, of course, exercises procedural control over all these criminal proceedings that are opened. That is, the circle of people who get access to this sensitive information has increased significantly.

Read also: SBU confirms massive drone strike on military camp near Khalino airbase in Russias Kursk Oblast

And there is no guarantee that the SBU has already carried out systematic work among these numerous auditors, investigators, and prosecutors, identified all spies, some latent traitors who can spread this information further beyond their authority.

Moreover, I want to tell you: is it profitable for all these arms manufacturers to work with the state of Ukraine? Its clear that the state-owned manufacturers, which are part of the Ukroboronproms structure, wont go anywhere. Theyve always worked at a loss, and its already a traditional story for them that the Defense Ministry doesnt allow them to set any such profits that would allow them to grow. Theyre constantly poor, degrading, everyone is used to the fact that these are state-owned companies, and nothing good will ever come of them.

But private arms manufacturers that are now in the governments spotlight will at least think twice about whether they should enter into a contract with the Defense Ministry. Because the question is not only that theyll be subject to check, because everyone is already checking them. But the question is whether this doesnt pose a direct threat to life, health [of workers] and production from enemy [attacks]. Thats what the problem is. The circle of people with sensitive information who can now be reached by the FSB has expanded.

NV: There are certain assumptions. Either the State Audit Service is some kind of very separate, autonomous, and all-powerful office that no one can influence, including the finance minister and the head of the government. Or simply the head of the State Audit Service isnt in the government, but its influenced by some other person from some other body. How would you assess this?

Kanievskyi: There are several factors. We cannot say that there is some single factor that allows the State Audit Service and its management to take such a rigid position without consequences.

The first factor is the political distribution of offices in Ukraine. Its not a secret for anyone that all positions are agreed in the Presidents Office, not in the Cabinet of Ministers. Accordingly, officials undergoing interviews and appointments in the Presidents Office enlist the support of some political groups within the structure of the Presidents Office, within the structure of the ruling Servant of the People party and feel more protected by this governmental chain of command.

They understand who their real boss is, and to whom they really have to report for their results. And therefore, this is one of the factors why we have many leaders in government structures who are so autonomous from government policy and can openly get their way. They understand they have certain safeguards and protections from other state agencies.

Second. The ruling partys personnel policy hasnt been perfect since 2019. And now, as political scientists say, the pool of candidates for government positions isnt really that deep.

Read also: Inflation, struggling healthcare and economy await Russians in 2024 amid 68% defense budget increase

International partners, who have already contributed 60% of funds to Ukraines budget this year and are expected to cover 60% of the state budget expenses next year, are beginning to be openly annoyed by such institutional instability and weakness of the Ukrainian government.

And any such appointment-dismissals is an additional irritation for partners in Washington, in Brussels, who simply cannot understand whats happening in our country, and why people are appointed and dismissed so often.

In our country, people are appointed to positions not based on their professional abilities, vision for the institutional system development, plans for changes, reforms, but simply because someone told someone, advised that hes a good person, why not appoint him.

And we must remember that when most of the funds in our budget come from European and U.S. taxpayers, officials in Brussels and Washington are beginning to look more closely at how Ukrainian government structures work with their money.

This is my explanation. The government has actually distanced itself from this story. Look, no one, except for the arms manufacturers, volunteers, and the public comments on this story in public. Although it has already come to a parliamentary resolution.

NV: The head of the State Audit Service, Alla Basalaieva, said the service intends to reach an understanding with entrepreneurs and arms manufacturers. Its not quite clear to me how they will get along.

Kanievskyi: Yes, this is a good signal. There is at least communication with the arms manufacturers. Theyre trying to solve this problem with them.

In my opinion, there are two open questions here. First. Where is the guarantee that such problems wont happen again? That is, where is the guarantee that some other resolution wont be prepared in the Cabinet without such a mistake, which will lead to a numerous chain of mistakes?

The second problem. When law enforcement agencies, SBI, SBU open proceedings, they cannot just close the case because someone signed some memorandum. No, theyll investigate now. Theyll conduct interrogations.

Read also: Investigators suspect !Fest cofounders of tax evasion

Whats the investigators logic? When he [investigator] receives a specific reason to open criminal proceedings, even if he understands that this reason is very, very shaky, and probably he wont be able to establish damages for the state and bring this case to verdicts, to charges, but every investigator, every prosecutor understands that he has a new opportunity to find some other violations of tax, customs legislation, some official violations. That is, its access to the economic activity of an enterprise that has money. And they can already work there and look for new criminal cases.

I have a simple question. How important is it for us now, from a strategic point of view, to make life a nightmare for our own arms manufacturers during war, given that we only have a few of them? Its not that our market for manufacturers of missiles and artillery shells is so crowded that we can afford to look for some losers to make their life a nightmare.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Fulton County prosecutors probing Donald Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the state discussed plea deals with six more of his co-defendants, four of whom have already taken such plea deals, CNN reported citing multiple sources. Georgia-based attorney Robert Cheeley turned down a plea agreement that was offered by prosecutors some time ago, his lawyer confirmed to CNN. Former Coffee County elections supervisor Misty Hampton and Trump campaign aide Mike Roman are among those offered deals, according to CNN. Trump attorney Jenna Ellis on Tuesday became the fourth of Trumps co-defendants to take a guilty plea, adding to the growing pressure against the former President.

Read it at CNN

Read more at The Daily Beast.
Airlines have reacted with fury and warned passengers will face higher fares after the UK's aviation regulator increased air traffic control charges.

The costs, paid by airlines, come after a UK air traffic control meltdown in August which led to long flight delays and left thousands stranded.

The fee will rise from 47 to 64 per flight until 2027, an increase of 43p per passenger to 2.08 on average.

Airlines said the increases "cannot be justified" given the recent disruption.

Tim Alderslade, chief executive of industry body Airlines UK, said the hike in charges was "yet another kick in the teeth for passengers who have been plagued by issues this summer including the August Nats [National Air Traffic Services] IT failure".

The group, which represents the likes of British Airways, EasyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, Virgin Atlantic and Tui, said passengers would "inevitably end up footing the bill of millions of pounds for increases".

"It is clear that a wider independent review into how Nats is regulated is needed to protect passengers and ensure that airlines are not always forced to act as the insurer of last resort and bear millions of pounds of costs for failures that are not their fault," he added.

In August, around 2,000 flights at airports across the UK were cancelled when the National Air Traffic Services (Nats) system for automatically processing flight plans failed, leaving passengers stranded.

Some people slept on airport floors or in makeshift beds, while many scrambled to rebook flights.

During the IT meltdown, airlines incurred huge costs to provide accommodation and put on more flights for customers who were stuck overseas. Some airlines, including Ryanair, have called for such costs to be covered by Nats.

Nats apologised for the disruption and has said measures have been put in place to protect against the "incredibly rare" system failure from happening again.

But an aviation industry source told the BBC Nats had confirmed it would not directly reimburse airlines for the costs they incurred as a result of the technical failure in August.

The airline regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)'s decision to allow Nats to charge more for its services, is separate its ongoing investigation into the system failure incident.

The CAA said the move would enable Nats to "recover its operating costs and was "consistent" for Nats to maintain a "safe operation".

The charges for airlines relate to services provided in UK and North Atlantic airspace.

Andrew Walker, chief economist at the CAA, said it would consider further regulatory steps following the outcome of the independent review of the IT meltdown.

Tim Jeans, aviation executive and former managing director at Monarch Airlines, said the decision would go down "very badly".

"Nats is a monopoly so the airlines and the industry have absolutely no choice but to accept these charges and it looks to me as if the CAA has swallowed the Nats story basically saying that...charges have got to go up," he said.

Cost of living: Tackling it together

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled?

Passengers have a number of rights under UK law if they are:

Flying from a UK airport

Arriving at a UK airport on an EU or UK airline

Arriving at an EU airport on a UK airline

Airlines must offer the choice of a refund or alternative flight, regardless of how far in advance the cancellation was made.

Return tickets must be fully refunded if either leg is cancelled.

And passengers have a right to be booked on another airline - or other suitable mode of transport - if it is going to their destination significantly sooner.

Read more here.
Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) held up newly-elected Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) as a shining example of the strength of the MAGA movement, after every GOP member of Congress voted for him to be Speaker on Wednesday, ending three weeks of chaos in the House.

Gaetz has worked with Johnson on the House Judiciary Committee for seven years, he told talk show host and former Donald Trump adviser Steve Bannon during an appearance on his show Wednesday.

He is sharp. He will be as respected in the homes of our most meaningful, righteous and patriotic donors as he will at the rallies with our most enthusiastic and meaningful activists, Gaetz said.

House Republicans made Johnson the Speaker after three previous Republicans could not gather enough support after being named the nominee. Former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) was kicked out of the job more than three weeks ago and the House had passed no bills from then until Johnson was elected.

The swamp is on the run, MAGA is ascendant, and if you dont think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement, and where the power of the Republican Party truly lies, then youre not paying attention, Gaetz said.

They are crying, they are hand-wringing, they are bed-wetting over on K Street, because we have an honorable, righteous man who is about to take this position, he continued. Hes going to do great things for the country.

Gaetz spearheaded the effort to oust McCarthy earlier this month, citing a lack of trust and broken promises.

After being elected, Johnson committed to unify the GOP caucus and get back to work.

Were in the majority right now, Johnson said after being sworn in as Speaker. Weve gone through a little bit of character building, and you know what its produced: more strength, more perseverance and a lot of hope.

And thats what were about to deliver to the American people, he added.

The House is expected to focus on government funding, as a continuing resolution passed late last month to avert a government shutdown runs out of money in just three weeks.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Gainesville man and convicted sexual offender was sentenced Thursday to 30 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to receipt of child pornography, according to a news release from the US Attorney's Office of the Northern District of Florida.

Stephen Edward Cobb, 62, was picked up on warrant in June 2022 after Gainesville law enforcement received a tip in December 2021 that Cobb was sharing a video of child pornography on the internet. After executing the warrant, police examined Cobb's cellphone and social media accounts and found hundreds of images an videos of child pornography, the release said.

More: 3 Alachua County men sentenced to decades in prison in separate murder cases

Protecting innocent children from sexual predators remains one of our highest priorities, said U.S. Attorney Coody in a news release. I commend our law enforcement partners and prosecutors who work diligently to identify these predators and bring them to justice so that they can no longer exploit any child again. Due to their efforts, our community is safer, and this repeat offender is exactly where he belongs  back behind bars.

Cobb was already a registered sex offender before his 2022 arrest. He was convicted in 2018 of lewd and lascivious assault on a child. Alachua County court records show Cobb was sentenced in that case to 30 months in prison.

This predatorial recidivist didnt learn his lesson the first time and continued to victimize children, said HSI Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips, in the release. Thanks to the diligence of HSI and the Gainesville Police Department, we were able hold Cobb accountable for his deviant actions once again.

If released, Cobbs prison sentence will be followed by a lifetime of supervised release.

This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: Gainesville man, 62, sentenced to 30 years on child porn charge
Good morning and welcome to the A.M. Alert!

NEWSOM NAVIGATES TROUBLED WATERS IN MEETING WITH CHINESE PRESIDENT

via Maggie Angst...

Gov. Gavin Newsom met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday at the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing, a setting typically reserved for heads of state.

The discussion, according to the governors office, touched on climate change, human rights, fentanyl and the importance of strengthening US-China relations. It was the first time Xi met with the U.S. governor since former California Gov. Jerry Brown in 2017.

California and China are two of the worlds largest economies, Newsom wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, after the meeting. The reality is, we cannot solve the climate crisis without working together. Despite our major differences, California is committed to stopping the greatest existential threat our planet has ever known.

The meeting between the Democratic governor and the leader of the worlds second-largest economy came amid a tense, but potentially improving, relationship between the two countries. Chinas top diplomat just announced plans to visit Washington ahead of a possible meeting between President Joe Biden and Xi at the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation conference next month in San Francisco.

Newsom, who has no authority over international issues, has met with two top global leaders in the past week. Prior to arriving in China for a weeklong tour focused on climate issues, Newsom met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv.

When reporter Elex Michaelson of Fox LA asked Newsom what the state of California was getting out of his international trip, the governor said more tourism, more two-way trade and more economic development.

STANFORD STUDY SHOWS CALIFORNIA FLIGHT IS NOT POLITICALLY MOTIVATED

Republican talking points not withstanding, most Californians decamping for other states arent doing it for political reasons.

Thats one of the findings of a new study from the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research.

Two-thirds of residents who moved out reported that they were not doing so for political reasons, though a quarter of those who left did say that politics was either very or somewhat of an important reason for moving away.

It seems to matter most to voters under age 45, Hispanics, Republicans, and those who moved into Arizona and Texas, the report said.

So why are they moving? It has more to do with the cost of living and perceptions about crime not supported by data, the report says. California and Texas have similar crime rates, and Arizona frequently has a higher rate.

A majority (62%) of Arizona and Texas California ex-pats surveyed said that they believe the Golden State has more crime than their newly adopted home. On party lines, that includes 77% of Republicans, 64% of independents and 44% of Democrats.

The perception about higher crime in California, however, does not correspond with the facts and needs to be addressed more aggressively by Golden State political and business leaders, the report said.

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Far-right Rep. Mike Johnson is anti-choice, anti-democracy, and opposes same-sex marriage. Hes an embarrassment to Mikes everywhere.

- California Senate Majority Leader and incoming Senate President pro Tem Mike McGuire, discussing the election of Rep. Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, as the next Speaker of the House, via X.

Best of The Bee:

Three weeks and four nominees later, House Republicans settled on a new Speaker Wednesday, a low-profile architect of the legal argument to overturn the results of the 2020 election for former President Donald Trump, via Gillian Brassil .

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is undergoing its most significant changes in nearly 30 years, and one of the new regulations will directly impact undocumented families, via Mathew Miranda.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom slammed Maine Republicans on social media for rejecting a gun control bill that would have required a 72-hour waiting period for firearm purchases earlier this year after a gunman opened fire and killed at least 18 people in Lewiston Wednesday night.

Newsom pointed the finger at Republicans, but Democrats have control of both Maine's House and Senate. The June legislation's rejection was bipartisan, failing in the House 73-69 with 65 Republicans and seven Democrats voting against and in the Senate 24-11 with all 13 Republicans and 11 Democrats voting against.

Democratic Maine Gov. Janet Mills had remained largely silent on the proposal. At a press conference Thursday, Mills condemned the shootings without mentioning gun control.

They seriously could not fathom waiting 72 hours to buy a gun, Newsom wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, in a post that also criticized Maine's lack of laws to ban assault weapons, require permits to carry a gun in public or require background checks on all gun sales.

The California governor also repeated his calls for further gun control action from Congress. He has been vocal about calling out Republicans for not passing gun safety legislation, particularly after two mass shootings in his state left 19 people dead earlier this year.

On Wednesday night, a man shot and killed at least 18 people and injured at least 13 at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, and then fled the scene. Law enforcement continued to search for the suspect, identified as Robert Card, on Thursday.

Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine, according to the Associated Press.
You are here: Arts

An exhibition on art, design and manufacturing in Italy opened Wednesday in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality.

The exhibition, "The Source of Wisdom: Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello, Dante, and Italian Design and Manufacturing," features nearly 300 artworks and documents, including oil paintings, posters and magazines.

It is jointly held by the cultural center of the Italian Embassy in China, the Consulate General of the Republic of Italy in Chongqing, and the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute.

One part of the exhibition shows how Italian designers and artists in the 1900s drew inspiration from the works of Renaissance maestros such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello Sanzio and Dante Alighieri.

The other part features the works of young Italian artists in the early 1900s, showing the origin of Italian manufacturing and urban development.

A powerhouse in art design and fashion, Italy boasts a long history of design and artistic tradition.
Nine days after the explosion at the car park of Al-Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza City, the exact cause of the blast is still contested.

The Hamas-controlled Palestinian authorities in Gaza accused Israel of hitting the hospital with an air strike. Israel said a misfiring rocket from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) group was to blame, which they deny.

The UK said on Monday its assessment, based on intelligence and analysis by weapons experts, was that it was likely a missile fired from within Gaza towards Israel was responsible.

The US had already said Israel was not to blame based on "overhead imagery, intercepts and open-source information". Neither the UK or US has released the evidence that underpins those assessments.

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said almost 500 were killed. The Israeli military said the number was far lower.

Within 24 hours of the blast - which happened at 1900 local time on 17 October - the BBC Verify team had assessed video footage, pictures and other materials in an effort to understand what might have happened. A BBC journalist was also able to visit the site the day after the blast.

We have continued to look closely at the evidence and there has been further analysis from other media outlets as well as dozens of open-source intelligence experts on social media.

There are three areas which have been a focus since the blast: the lack of weapon fragments, the crater and damage at the scene, and video footage of a projectile rising over Gaza which was central to Israel's description of what happened.

Notable lack of weapon fragments so far

It is sometimes the case that what cannot be seen is as telling as what can be seen.

Usually one of the most important elements in investigating incidents of this kind is an on-the-ground investigation, including examining and recovering debris that might provide clues about the nature and origin of the weapon.

Pictures taken in the immediate aftermath show Hamas-led security forces on the scene, with officers wearing tops with logos of the Palestinian police's Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit examining the crater.

Graphic showing Palestinian police combing through the blast site

But we have not seen any evidence of weapon fragments being recovered and there has been no significant update from officials in Gaza about their investigation.

Hamas told the New York Times, that the missile had disintegrated beyond recognition: "The missile has dissolved like salt in the water. It's vaporized. Nothing is left," said Ghazi Hamad, a senior Hamas official.

Experts have said it is extremely unusual for a blast site such as this not to yield debris of this kind.

Former UN war crimes investigator Marc Garlasco tweeted: "In 20 years of investigating war crimes this is the first time I haven't seen any weapon remnants. And I've worked three wars in Gaza."

More theories on evidence from the scene

The most important evidence remains the state of the scene of the blast, which was clearly photographed by news agencies the morning after.

What was clear in the immediate aftermath of the blast was that it left only a small crater. Three experts told us the crater was much smaller than the damage usually caused by the sort of precision-guided munition often used by Israel.

These weapons are often used to flatten buildings or destroy underground structures like tunnels - and if one were to have dropped in the middle of the courtyard, several experts told us, it would have left a crater metres wide and deep.

Since then, some commentators have suggested that the lack of a large crater could be explained by the use of an "air burst" munition - a weapon set to explode above the ground. But the experts we spoke to said the blast scene was not consistent with this.

Those experts concurred that the pattern of damage on the ground meant the most likely cause was a rocket or a smaller munition.

The hospital's car park contained more than a dozen burned-out cars, including one that had been overturned.

There were damaged tiles, broken windows and shrapnel marks on surrounding hospital buildings but no visible structural damage.

An annotated graphic of damage at the hospital

J Andres Gannon, an assistant professor at Vanderbilt University in the US, said the heat generated from the impact may have been caused by leftover rocket fuel rather than an explosion from a warhead.

Justin Bronk, senior research fellow at the UK-based Royal United Services Institute (Rusi), agreed.

While it was difficult to be sure at such an early stage, he said, the evidence suggested the explosion was a result of a section of a failed rocket hitting the car park and its fuel and propellant (a combination of fuel and an oxidizer agent) causing a fire.

However in the past week, not every analysis has agreed with this.

The Forensic Architecture agency, a UK-based organisation which investigates human rights abuses, has carried out its own analysis of the crater, and suggests it is more consistent with the impact marks from an artillery shell which it concludes came from the direction of Israel.

It says that the scarring patterns above the crater are consistent with the shrapnel damage that would be expected from an artillery strike.

Graphic showing the crater with shrapnel damage labelled

Several types of artillery have been deployed by Israel since the start of the conflict, including M109 155mm howitzers and M270 MLRS rocket launchers.

We have since showed images of the crater to several weapons experts and asked them whether the damage markings were consistent with the type of explosion caused by artillery shelling.

NR Jenzen-Jones, a director at Armament Research Services, says the crater is significantly smaller than one typically generated by a 155mm artillery projectile.

But Mark Cancian of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies said that, based on evidence so far, it was difficult to differentiate whether it was caused by an artillery shell, a mortar or a rocket - it could potentially be any of them.

It's unlikely that evidence from the crater alone will help us understand exactly what caused this.

How significant is the projectile video?

Aside from images of the scene in the immediate aftermath, several video clips have emerged showing the explosion and the moments leading up to the blast.

We synced three video clips showing the moment of the explosion - one from the Al Jazeera news network, one from a CCTV camera, and another taken on a mobile phone near to the blast site.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The Al Jazeera clip, shown in the bottom left above, has been pointed to by the Israeli authorities as evidence for their claim of a misfired rocket launched from within Gaza.

It shows an object moving through the sky, appearing to break apart, and then, a few seconds later, another explosion on the ground. We know this is the site of the hospital.

This clip has now been repeatedly analysed in an attempt to answer two key questions - what exactly was the projectile seen rising into the sky and could it have hit the hospital.

Open-source analysts including Oliver Alexander and Aric Toler and his team at the New York Times have cast doubt on whether the explosion in the sky shown in the Al Jazeera clip is related to the blast at the hospital.

Their analysis places the mid-air explosion some 3.2km (2 miles) away from the hospital, closer to the Gaza-Israel border.

In other words, they believe another projectile - not seen in the video - caused the deadly explosion, but they do not know what that was.

More on Israel-Gaza war

It has also been disputed whether the mid-air explosion seen in that video is a malfunctioning rocket as Israeli authorities and others have said.

Some have suggested it shows a rocket being intercepted by the Israeli Iron Dome missile defence system.

However, several experts we spoke to said that the explosion in the sky isn't consistent with what is usually expected following an Iron Dome intercept.

"About one second before the explosion there appears a 'comet trail' of burning particles behind the rocket - probably pieces of disintegrating propellant grain. After the explosion there is an elongated glowing debris cloud that fades out after a couple of seconds. This is not typical to Tamir [Iron Dome] interception, where the Tamir's warhead explodes causing an almost immediate sympathetic explosion of the hostile rocket warhead," says Dr Uzi Rubin, an Israeli defence analyst at Rusi, who was the founder and first director of the Israel Missile Defense Organization.

We asked a number of other experts.

"The projectile does not have the flight path of Iron Dome. Additionally, Iron Dome almost never deploys just one interceptor," Mr Gannon says.

However, Mr Garlasco said he believed the footage was consistent with an Iron Dome interception.

CCTV, amateur footage, and feeds from Al Jazeera and Israel's Channel 12 show that, in the minute before the hospital blast, there were at least two separate bursts of rockets in the area.

Analysts have emphasised that the most important thing in investigations like this is allowing independent investigators access to the site, to any physical evidence that has been collected and the ability to interview survivors.

That has not happened so far and is never easy in war zones.

Additional reporting by Tom Spencer, Benedict Garman, Paul Brown, Jemimah Herd, Tural Ahmedzade, Emma Pengelly, Alex Murray and Jamie Ryan.

BBC Verify logo
A Georgia businessman has admitted to possessing child sexual abuse material and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison.

The U.S. Attorneys Office, Middle District of Georgia says Edward Sprouse Boyd, Sr., 49, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on October 24.

Boyd faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, followed by a maximum lifetime of supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

He will also have to register as a sex offender upon release from federal prison.

He is not eligible for parole.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 23, 2024.

Our office will hold accountable those who possess, distribute or create child sexual assault material, content which profoundly harms kids, said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. I want to commend the GBI for their dedicated and ceaseless efforts to protect children and bring predators to justice.

According to court documents, the social media platform MeWe submitted several cyber tips to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) about uploads of suspected child pornography.

The reports were forwarded to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which determined that the MeWe account belonged to Boyd.

TRENDING STORIES:

A search of his MeWe account revealed images of fully nude minor girls, as well as child-centric sexually explicit chats with other users.

A search warrant was executed on his home on August 20, 2020.

Eighteen electronic devices were seized, including a cell phone belonging to Boyd.

A forensic examination of his cell phone revealed 5,047 images and 1,157 videos that were categorized as child abuse material, plus 10,643 images and 1,013 videos categorized as child exploitative/age difficult.

The images and videos were submitted by the GBI to the NCMEC to both confirm any previously identified minor victims and to enter any unidentified minor victims into their database for possible future identification.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

IN OTHER NEWS:
Maps drawing the boundaries for congressional and state legislative districts in Georgia violate the Voting Rights Act and must be redrawn, a federal judge has ruled.

The 516-page order from US District Judge Steve C Jones in Atlanta strikes down the maps for discriminating against Black voters and orders state lawmakers to draft new ones by 8 December.

Judge Jones decision on 26 October ordered the creation of one new congressional district with a majority-Black voting population, as well as two new majority-Black state senate districts and five new majority-Black state House districts.

His order marks a victory for Black voters and voting rights advocates in the state, following a string of federal court decisions and cases surrounding discriminatory maps and illegal gerrymanders in several states.

New maps in Georgia also mean that voters are likely to elect a new Democratic representative to the US House of Representatives in 2024 elections.

The decision also could reshape the states general assembly, which currently is dominated by a Republican majority in both the House and Senate.

A lawsuit filed on behalf of civil rights and religious organisations in the state argued that Black residents, who fuelled the states population growth over the last decade, were inadequately represented politically in both the states general assembly and in Congress.

The Court reiterates that Georgia has made great strides since 1965 towards equality in voting, Judge Jones wrote. However, the evidence before this Court shows that Georgia has not reached the point where the political process has equal openness and equal opportunity for everyone.

The state legislature has been on notice since at least the time that this litigation was commenced nearly 22 months ago that new maps might be necessary, the judge wrote.

The General Assembly already has access to an experienced cartographer ... and the General Assembly has an illustrative remedial plan to consult, he added.

Federal courts will determine whether the redrawn maps satisfy the order, but in the event that state officials are unable or unwilling to meet the 8 December deadline, the courts will take the matter out of their hands, according to the judges order.

Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and other parties in the case are likely to appeal, but the US Supreme Court already has rejected similar attempts to preserve gerrymandered political maps in Alabama within the last year.

Earlier this month, a federal court in Alabama selected a new congressional map that will significantly increase Black voting power in the state and likely flip one of the states seats to a Democratic representative.

A decision in a case that reached the Supreme Court last year maintained the states sole district with a majority Black voting population  currently represented by Democratic US Rep Terry Sewell, the states only Black member of Congress  and ordered the creation of a second district with a Black voting age population of just under 49 per cent.

Sophia Lin Lakin, director of the Voting Rights Project at the ACLU, which filed the Georgia lawsuit, said the ruling marks a victory for anyone who believes voting should be fair.

This decision confirms that Black voters were illegally shut out of political opportunities in the state, she said in a statement. The courts ruling is a vital step in ensuring that Black Georgians can participate in the political process on equal terms.

Bishop Reginald T Jackson of the Sixth District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, among the plaintiffs in the case, said the decision corrects a wrong perpetrated upon the citizens of Georgia and Black citizens in particular.

It ensures that the vote of every citizen in Georgia counts and that Black citizens and communities in Georgia have the appropriate representation in Congress and State Houses, he added.
A businessman from Germany's centre was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of supplying Russia with engines for Orlan-10 drones in violation of sanctions, and he is under investigation.

Source: AFP with reference to the Prosecutor's Office in Frankfurt am Main and the Main Customs Office in Bonn, European Pravda reports

Details: In 2022 and 2023, the perpetrator reportedly supplied aircraft engine models, electronic components and other materials through an intermediary in Hong Kong to a St. Petersburg-based company.

According to the investigation, the aircraft engines of the model that the German entrepreneur sold to Russia are used, in particular, in Russian-made Orlan-10 reconnaissance UAVs. The Russian forces use them in the war against Ukraine to adjust artillery fire.

Investigators of the Customs Office's Criminal Investigation Department seized a total of 120 such engines from the company of the accused individual back in the summer of 2023, thus preventing possible exports to Russia.

In addition, the businessman is accused of illegally exporting two expensive cars from Germany. They were also allegedly imported into Russia via Hong Kong, which violates the EU sanctions regime.

The report says the value of all reportedly exported goods is about two million euros. German law enforcement officers also searched six residential and office premises associated with the accused man.

Background:

At the beginning of the year, German law enforcement officers drew attention to the fact that Russia's neighbouring countries are buying more and more German goods, probably bypassing Western sanctions, while selling them to Moscow.

Such cases have recently been recorded, among others, by the Czech Security and Information Service.

Support UP or become our patron!
Russia's war crimes in the Kyiv Oblast

The Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ), a non-governmental organization founded by Amal and George Clooney, has filed three cases with Germanys Federal Prosecutors Office, aiming to trigger an investigation into the war crimes allegedly committed by Russians in Ukraine, business news outlet Forbes reported on Oct. 26.

The CFJ is representing 16 victims and their family members, and their claims relate to crimes committed by Russian soldiers in Ukraine following the full-scale invasion by the Russian Federation.

Read also: ICC may issue another arrest warrant for Putin  Ukrainian intelligence

Since the conflicts onset, the Docket initiative, a CFJ project, has been collecting evidence and documenting the crimes committed by Russian forces. This effort included field investigations in Ukraine and a thorough analysis of open-source data. The collected evidence was subsequently used to initiate cases in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction.

All three cases have been filed against senior and mid-level Russian commanders. The first case involves a missile strike in Odesa Oblast in the summer of 2022, resulting in civilian casualties. The second case pertains to the unlawful detention, torture, and execution of individuals in Kharkiv Oblast. The third case involves Russian unit commanders implicated in various violations during the occupation of Kyiv Oblast in March 2022.

If German authorities find the evidence convincing, they can initiate a criminal investigation and issue arrest warrants. Arrest warrants can be executed outside of Germany through Europol and Interpol systems. The International Criminal Court (ICC) can also issue arrest warrants for key suspects.

Read also: ICC may issue another arrest warrant for Putin  Ukrainian intelligence

Once the investigations are initiated, Docket will continue to provide additional evidence to German prosecutors, coordinate with the Ukrainian prosecution, and offer support to survivors and their families.

Involvement of courts beyond Ukraine is crucial, said Marina Slobodyanyuk, the head of the investigative department at Truth Hounds.

Despite the efforts of Ukrainian law enforcement agencies to uncover Russian war crimes, they are overburdened and have limited capabilities to prosecute commanders and masterminds of these crimes. Therefore, Germany can significantly contribute to the pursuit of justice for Ukrainian victims.

While these three cases are the first to be filed in Germany under the principle of universal jurisdiction, the Docket team is working on bringing forth more cases.

Read also: US decision to provide ICC with Russian war crimes evidence is historic, says prosecutor general

The CFJ Foundation has also shared evidence with the International Criminal Courts Prosecutors Office to support the courts efforts in holding Russias top leadership accountable for war crimes.

German courts have a history of attempting to prosecute international crimes. Previously, the Federal Prosecutors Office of Germany initiated an investigation into war crimes committed by Russia in Hostomel, Kyiv Oblast.

As of July 2023, over 10,000 civilian deaths have been documented as a result of Russias war against Ukraine, though the actual numbers far exceed confirmed accounts. During the 17 months of the occupation, over 97,000 war crimes committed by Russians have been registered. Out of 383 suspects identified, 220 face charges, and 54 have been sentenced by Ukrainian courts.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Germon Marquise Jefferson, 27, pleaded guilty Thursday to a lesser charge in the November 2021 shooting death of 18-year-old Serena Williams of Alexandria, getting sentenced to a total of 75 years in prison.

A 27-year-old Alexandria man pleaded guilty Thursday to a lesser charge in the November 2021 shooting death of an 18-year-old woman, getting sentenced to a total of 75 years in prison.

Germon Marquise Jefferson will serve his three sentences back-to-back-to-back after 9th Judicial District Court Judge Mary Lauve Doggett handed down a 35-year sentence for attempted second-degree murder and two 20-year sentences for illegal use of a weapon.

Jefferson has been in jail since he was arrested on Nov. 30, 2021, by the Alexandria Police Department.

UPDATE: Man wanted in Alexandria homicide leads troopers on chase into Marksville

Denied: Kayla Giles' murder conviction, sentence in death of husband upheld by Louisiana court

Two days before that, Jefferson had shot Williams in an apartment on Lakeside Drive. She died at a local hospital.

The next day, he fired a shot at her brother before leading police on a chase into Avoyelles Parish with a toddler in his car. He eluded police, but was caught the next day in Dallas.

Jefferson's sentences are to be served the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence, according to online Rapides Parish Clerk of Court records.

This article originally appeared on Alexandria Town Talk: Man gets 75 years in prison for 2021 murder of Serena Williams, 18
More than three years since the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Oregon schools still are struggling to get back on track.

Oregon saw more ninth graders on track to graduate, fewer high school graduates going to college and lower attendance rates, according to Oregon's 2022-23 At-A-Glance school and district profiles, which were released Thursday.

The At-A-Glance report cards, released annually by the Oregon Department of Education, provide key information to local communities and are meant to inform families and educators about what is working and what isn't within their public school districts.

With these mixed findings, ODE Director Charlene Williams said she was in no way satisfied.

I took this role to make a difference, we need to see what the data are telling us and be responsive to that, Williams said. Its a good sign that the ninth grade on-track figure, a key metric in making sure students are on track to graduate from high school, is rising.

"The decrease in attendance, however, is a signal that we need to continue removing barriers to attendance by making our schools engaging and welcoming for students, she said.

The report cards inform families and educators about what is working and what isnt within their public school districts.

Jon Weins, ODE's director of accountability and reporting, said these reports also are meant to stimulate conversations at the community level and can be especially helpful in underserved communities.

"We believe these create a tool that indicates areas of success, growth and improvement for schools," Weins said. "Also, we believe they support data literacy and actionable data reporting practices."

Slight increase in students on-track to graduate in Oregon

The rate of Oregon ninth graders on track to graduate high school in four years has increased, going from 82.8% in 2021-22 to 83.6% in 2022-23. Its the second year in a row that Oregon has seen an increase.

However, the rate is still not back to the pre-pandemic level, remaining a percentage point below what it was in 2018-19.

The ninth grade on-track to graduate rate is an important predictor of graduation outcomes and refers to students who have earned at least one-quarter of their required graduation credits by the end of ninth grade. ODE officials said these rates help inform educators which students need additional support.

"While one percentage point may not seem necessarily seem like a lot, if you think about students, that represents about 700 more students statewide that are on track than the previous year," Weins said. "It is a significant change for a lot of kids."

While the state overall has seen some progress, results vary widely among districts.

Bethel School District saw a 2.5 percentage point increase compared to last year, reporting 80.5% of its ninth graders were on track to graduate in 2022-23.

Eugene School District 4J saw a slight decline of 0.3 percentage point, but reported the highest percentage of ninth graders on track with 84.7%, higher than the state average.

Springfield Public Schools reported a similar rate with 80.4%, but this was a 5.4 percentage point increase, the largest of the three Eugene-Springfield metro districts.

The latest data also show historically marginalized students face additional barriers. The lowest on-track rate in Eugene 4J was 49% for students experiencing homelessness, followed by 69% for American Indian/Alaska Native students.

Student attendance rates down across Oregon schools

Despite an uptick seen in the 2021-22 school year, 2022-23 saw another decline in the number of regular attenders. The ODE considers students "regular attenders" if they attend more than 90% of the school days in the year.

The rate of students considered regular attenders dropped from 65% in 2021-22 to 61.9% in 2022-23. With this years report ODE began providing data on regular attendance for all grades, rather than just kindergarten through second grade.

Compared to pre-pandemic, the regular attendance rate was at 80.7% in the 2018-19 school year.

The state saw the largest attendance declines in the early grades, with smaller declines at the high school level, said Dan Farley, ODEs assistant superintendent of Research, Assessment, Data, Accountability and Reporting.

ODE said they don't have a solid explanation for why attendance remains so low.

"They (districts ODE spoke with) couldn't really point to anything really concrete in the systems, other than the ability that families, one are used to having kids home more now coming up with the pandemic, and keep kids home more if they are experiencing illness," Weins said. "A lot of those conversations at this point are really theoretical, even at the local level."

Williams said, tentatively, that the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath could be a cause.

"During the pandemic, there were some financial supports that were offered to families around rental assistance, and other means that provided some financial relief for families," Williams said. "As things get back to 'normal' those financial burdens are landing back in the laps of some of our families. They are struggling once again, in some cases with food insecurity and finding stable housing."

There are plans to investigate further and find solutions.

Every Day Matters, which was first launched in 2018, is a statewide initiative that works with schools and districts to boost attendance and student engagement by building relationships with students, families and community members. It's $6 million of funding aimed to address chronic absenteeism and raise attendance rates.

Williams said some districts are using extra funding from Every Day Matters to hire extra staff like community liaisons, family advocates or school counselors. She added that ODE is working directly with districts, setting goals or outlining strategies to boost attendance.

"We're using that $6 million to fund community organizations and ESDs (Education Service Districts) to scale statewide and try to change the investment practices and what's actually happening in every district," said Scott Nine, assistant superintendent in ODE's Office of Education Innovation and Improvement.

For Eugene-Springfield metro districts, the numbers reflected a similar struggle with attendance.

For Bethel, 69.8% of students attended school regularly, nearly 8 percentage points higher than the state average. However, this was 6 percentage points lower than the district's attendance in 2021-22.

Eugene 4J reported 61.3% of its students were regular attenders, a 6 percentage points drop from 2021-22.

Springfield was the only metro district that did not see a drop in regular attendance, remaining steady at 56.3%.

College-going still on the decline and other findings

The rate of students going to college within 16 months of graduation declined nearly a full percentage point from 56.4% for the graduates of the Class of 2020 to 55.6% for the Class of 2021.

This is a smaller decline than between the Class of 2019 to the Class of 2020, which saw a 5.4 percentage point drop.

Williams said this is a pattern seen across the country.

"There were many challenges that students have faced during the peak pandemic years, many of which were really pronounced for some of our marginalized and underserved students," Williams said. "Some of it is high unemployment for young people, they cited financial hardships among students and families. Online learning introduced a set of challenges for many students, including some of the inequitable access to technology, difficulty accessing support services, and some students living spaces being difficult for studying and those kinds of things.

"Students just really wanted to put college on pause while they could figure out their lives."

Williams added that this is something ODE and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission will be monitoring closely, as it could be an indicator of the long-term implications of the pandemic.

Additionally, teaching staff numbers are at on the climb. Despite indications that student enrollment is not yet where it was pre-pandemic, ODE reported staffing levels, including for teachers and counselors, are now above pre-pandemic levels.

"There's also been an increase in need for our students," Williams said. "Districts are doing what they can to hold on to staffing and to recruit because we need every educator that we can get at the table providing services for kids."

For the Eugene-Springfield metro, Bethel reported 51.4% of its high school graduates, Eugene reported 66.1% of its high school graduates and Springfield reported that 48.8% of its high school graduates enrolled in a post-secondary institution within 16 months of their graduation.

Data for individual schools and districts are available at ode.state.or.us/data/reportcard/reports.aspx

Statesman Journal reporter Tracy Loew contributed to this story.

Miranda Cyr reports on education for The Register-Guard. You can contact her at mcyr@registerguard.com or find her on Twitter @mirandabcyr

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Oregon students still struggling post-pandemic, report shows
Emily Eavis is the co-organiser of Glastonbury Festival alongside her father Michael

Glastonbury Festival organiser Emily Eavis has said she has recently been offered a "really big American artist" who she hopes will headline next year.

She didn't reveal their identity, but told BBC podcast Sidetracked she is aiming to book two female headliners.

Next year's "legend slot", effectively a fourth headliner - has already been filled by a female act, she revealed.

Eavis set the internet alight last week after posting about seeing Madonna's "incredible" new live show.

Speaking to podcast hosts Annie Macmanus and Nick Grimshaw, Eavis - who runs the Worthy Farm event alongside father Michael - said headliners are normally booked by this time of year, but 2024's are "still a little up in the air".

'Thank God we held the slot'

"I thought it was kind of taking shape, and then last week I just got a call, and this is what happens if you wait a little longer, because quite often we'll be booked up from July. But this year we're holding out for a little bit longer.

"And then last week I got a call from [a representative of] a really big American artist saying, 'This person's around next year', and I was like, 'Oh my God, this is incredible. Thank God we held the slot.'"

Explaining the booking process, Eavis said she speaks to an agent or manager. "They'll say, 'Hi I've got such and such around next summer, are you interested?' And it's like, 'Yeah.'"

This embedded content is not available in your region.

She didn't suggest that Madonna was the really big American artist in question, but did say she has always wanted the Queen of Pop to play Glastonbury.

Talking about seeing her show at the O2 Arena in London, Eavis said: "It was incredible. I just was blown away by it to be honest.

"I walked away and I was like, 'I've got a post about this'. I've posted about going to lots of gigs before, but I didn't expect it to be quite such big news.

"Everybody knows that I've always wanted Madonna to play Glastonbury," she continued. "It's not a big news story."

Earlier this year it was widely reported that Taylor Swift was the favourite to grace the Pyramid Stage, before she appeared to rule herself out by booking a series of gigs over the traditional Glastonbury weekend at the end of June.

Madonna was then installed as one of the bookies' favourites, alongside acts like Coldplay, Dua Lipa and the Spice Girls.

Who could headline? The bookies' favourites

Madonna

Coldplay

Dua Lipa

Dave

The 1975

Olivia Rodrigo

Foo Fighters

Oasis

Rihanna

Spice Girls

Eavis, who faced criticism for this year's all-male headliners, said a female star had been booked for 2023 but pulled out, with Guns 'N Roses stepping in.

She noted she had "always been really passionate about gender split" line-ups.

"Everybody who knows, knows that it's top of my list. I'm always trying to make it the most balanced, diverse bill," she said.

"It is difficult with female artists because there aren't enough headliners, but we're also creating them by putting bands [and] female artists on smaller stages and bringing them through all the time.

"So I feel like the pool is going to be bigger soon. And who knows? Next year, we might get two [female headliners], and certainly I can say that the legend is female."

The Glastonbury organiser said she hoped to reveal the full line-up at the start of next year. Tickets will go on sale in November priced at 360.

Sidetracked with Annie and Nick is available weekly on BBC Sounds.
The mother of Wadea Al-Fayoume, a 6-year-old Palestinian boy who was fatally stabbed in Illinois in an alleged hate crime linked to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, urged the public to "pray for peace" in her first statement since the tragic slaying.

Wadea and his mother, 32-year-old Hanan Shaheen, were stabbed repeatedly with a serrated military-style knife in their suburban Chicago home on Oct. 14 during a confrontation with their landlord, who allegedly targeted them because they were Muslim, according to the Will County Sheriff's Office.

Their landlord, 71-year-old Joseph Czuba, allegedly stabbed Wadea 26 times, and his mother a dozen times, the sheriff's office said.

PHOTO: Wadea Al-Fayoume, 6, a Muslim boy who was stabbed to death in an attack that targeted him and his mother in an undated family photograph obtained by Reuters, Oct. 15, 2023. (Cair via Reuters)

The head of the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, the nations largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, said he met with Shaheen on Monday following her release from the hospital.

Asked whether she had any statement to convey, she said, "Just  pray for peace," according to CAIR-Chicago Executive Director Ahmed Rehab.

On her son, she said, "He was my best friend," according to Rehab.

MORE: US hate crimes expected to soar as Middle East war intensifies: DHS

"We spent most of our time together listening to her recounting stories of how smart and funny her boy was, and how he cared for the planet and always liked to join her in prayer," Rehab said in a statement released Tuesday.

Shaheen is focusing on her "physical and mental recuperation" in the wake of the attack, Rehab said. She is recuperating well from her injuries and is "fully functional but tired," he said.

"Despite the painful loss and the trauma she experienced that morning, her spirit is strong and she is finding peace and answers in her faith in God," Rehab said. "She said that she accepts that God chose them for this test -- and that she finds solace in 'remembering Wadea as an angel on earth, and knowing that he is now an angel in heaven.'"

PHOTO: Community members pray during the funeral service for six-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume at the Mosque Foundation, Oct. 16, 2023, in Bridgeview, Illinois. (Kamil Krzaczynski/Getty Images)

Shaheen planned to speak out during a news conference on Wednesday in what would have been her first time speaking publicly on the attack, though the event has been indefinitely postponed, her attorney said.

"The pain endured by the Al-Fayoume family is immeasurable," her attorney, Ben Crump. said in a statement Tuesday. "No family should have to bear such a devastating loss, compounded by the burden of overwhelming medical bills. We must come together as a society not only to seek justice for Wadea but also to support this grieving family in their time of need."

PHOTO: Community members pray during the funeral service for six-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume at the Mosque Foundation, Oct. 16, 2023, in Bridgeview, Illinois. (Kamil Krzaczynski/Getty Images)

Czuba, a U.S. Air Force veteran, has been charged with first-degree murder, first-degree attempted murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and two counts of committing a hate crime in connection with the attack. He did not enter a plea during his arraignment on Oct. 16 and was ordered held without bail.

During the arraignment, Will County Assistant State's Attorney Michael Fitzgerald said Shaheen told investigators that when first confronted by Czuba over the violence in the Holy Land, she told him, "Let's pray for peace."

"He didn't give her time. He then attacked her with a knife," Fitzgerald said.

MORE: Uncle of 6-year-old Muslim boy stabbed to death in alleged hate crime speaks out

During an Oval Office speech on Thursday, President Joe Biden denounced the killing while also addressing the fear in Jewish communities of being targeted amid the fighting between Israel and Hamas that broke out in the wake of Hamas' surprise attack on Oct. 7.

"We can't stand by and stand silent when this happens," Biden said. "We must, without equivocation, denounce antisemitism. We must also, without equivocation, denounce Islamophobia."

Shortly after his speech, Biden spoke with the boy's father and uncle, the White House said.

The Department of Justice said it has opened a federal hate crimes investigation into Wadea's death.

ABC News' Bill Hutchinson and Alexandra Hutzler contributed to this report.

Mother of 6-year-old Muslim boy stabbed to death in alleged hate crime issues 1st remarks originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
WASHINGTON (Nexstar)  On Capitol Hill, lawmakers say theyre working toward a national paid family leave policy, but theres disagreement about how to accomplish that in a way that would benefit workers without negatively impacting employers.

About 3/4 of workers in the U.S. have access to paid leave, but only about a third of low-wage workers receive the same benefit.

Somehow the United States is the only developed nation in the world without a national paid leave program, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) said.

Senators from both parties say guaranteeing paid family leave would improve the entire economy because more people, especially women, would be able to work.

Weve talked about it for years but never seem to do what actually needs to be done. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan) said.

But Republican Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) said the government must tread carefully.

Imposing a one-size-fits-all paid leave program could actually limit employers ability to offer paid leave policies, Crapo said.

Elizabeth Milito, who runs a small business legal center, was one of the witnesses who told senators at a hearing Wednesday that many small businesses cant afford to provide leave.

Leave, paid or unpaid is not a free benefit, Milito said. The unanswered question with a leave mandate is  who is going to pay?

But Ben Verhoeven, a small business owner from Oregon, said that investing in paid family leave  has more than paid off for his independent farm and greenhouse business.

I will see a tremendous return on that investment in the form of retention, promotion and business growth, Verhoeven said.

There are many different federal paid leave proposals, and most provide some government subsidies. But right now, it doesnt appear that any have the support needed to become law.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The 2023 China Beijing TV Drama Festival kicked off in Beijing on Monday night, unveiling a range of eagerly awaited TV series and future projects.

Government and industry leaders launch the 2023 China Beijing TV Drama Festival at the opening ceremony in Beijing, Oct. 23, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Beijing Radio Television Station]

At the opening ceremony, titled "Beijing Night," TV production companies and creative teams from upcoming TV dramas took to the stage to promote their work. Highly anticipated dramas unveiled included "Battle of Shangganling," "Kun Peng Ji Lang" (The Roc Breaking the Waves), "Welcome to Milele Village," "Bloom Life," "Like a Flowing River," and many more. Several TV actors also performed at the gala and shared their insights.

Earlier this year, the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau initiated the "Superior Audio-visual Beijing" mechanism for high-quality content creation, coordinating the selection, production, and promotion of diverse audio-visual literary works. This initiative emphasizes thoughtful concepts, exquisite artistry, and top-tier production. It yielded 110 key projects in 2023, including 23 TV dramas, 34 documentaries, 48 online works, and five original 8K ultra-HD pieces.

At the evening event, the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau, in partnership with the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China's Chaoyang District Committee in Beijing, introduced a plan to enhance filming service standards in accordance with the Superior Audio-visual Beijing mechanism.

Notably, the China Writers Association's social liaison department and the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau launched a joint initiative. This initiative focuses on developing and adapting film and television works derived from licensed literary pieces, ensuring copyright protection.

Furthermore, the Beijing Municipal Radio and Television Bureau unveiled a three-year action plan for talent development within the Superior Audio-visual Beijing mechanism spanning 2023-2025. They also introduced lists of premium drama programs for 2023, special programs for 2023, and key project listings for 2024, charting a course for high-quality film and television production.

The four-day festival will host various forums and masterclasses. These will delve into quality creation, cutting-edge technology, and integrated development. Highlights include the TV Drama Development Forum, which will focus on the role of Chinese television dramas today, and the Beijing Drama Innovation Development Forum, which will explore the unique features and narratives of Beijing-produced dramas. Other sessions will examine the integration of literature with film and TV and the theories behind creating significant TV dramas. Additional forums will address technology innovation, music in TV drama, and cultural integration, all aiming to invigorate the film and TV industry through tradition and innovation.

The 2023 China Beijing TV Drama Festival will run until Oct. 26.
As with all things Google of late, AI capabilities are coming to Maps. The company announced a slew of machine learning updates for the popular app Thursday including an "Immersive View" for route planning, deeper Lens integration for local navigation and more accurate real-time information.

Back in May at its I/O developer conference, Google executives debuted Immersive View for routes, which provides navigation shots of your planned route. Whether you're on foot, bike, taking public transportation or driving, this will allow you to scrub back and forth through street level, turn-by-turn visuals of the path you're taking. The feature arrives on iOS and Android this week for Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo and Venice.

Just because you can see the route to get where you're going doesn't guarantee you'll be able to read the signage along the way. Google is revamping its existing AI-based Search with Live View feature in Maps. Simply tap the Lens icon in Maps and wave your phone around, the system will determine your precise street level location and be able to direct you to nearby resources like ATMs, transit stations, restaurants, coffee shops and stores.

The map itself is set to receive a significant upgrade. Buildings along your route will be more accurately depicted within the app to help you better orient yourself in unfamiliar cities, lane details along tricky highway interchanges will be more clearly defined in-app as well. Those updates will arrive for users in a dozen countries including the US, Canada, France and Germany over the next few months. US users will also start to see better in-app HOV lane designations and European customers should expect a significant expansion of Google's AI speed limit sign reader technology out to 20 nations in total.

a map of nearby charging stations (Google)

Google Maps also runs natively in a growing number of electric vehicles, as part of the Android Automotive OS ecosystem. That Maps is getting an update too as part of the new Places API. Starting this week, drivers will see increased information about nearby charging stations including whether the plugs work with their EV, the power throughput of the charger, and whether the plug has been used recently  an indirect means of inferring whether or not the station is out of service, which Google helpfully points out, is the case around 25 percent of them.

Even search is improving with the new update. Users will be soon able to look for nearby destinations that meet more esoteric criteria, such as animal latte art or pumpkin patch with my dog, results of which are gleaned from the analysis of "billions of photos shared by the Google Maps community," per a Google blog post Thursday.


The third Republican presidential debate in Miami next month could be one of the last major opportunities for some candidates to make their case to the GOP base before voting kicks off in January.

Amid what many see as a scramble for second place behind front-runner former President Trump, the debate presents a high-profile opportunity to reach a big audience ahead of the Iowa caucuses, and it could be a make-or-break moment for candidates who have so far struggled to gain traction.

The White House hopefuls will first need to meet the third debates heightened qualification requirements to get on the stage  and then capture attention and momentum from the podium.

This debate is very important for the candidates that are teetering on the brink of irrelevance, said GOP strategist Brian Darling.

If a candidates not on the debate stage, they should probably hang up the cleats and call it a day, Darling said. And if a candidate does not move the needle significantly in the next debate, its going to be hard for them to make any credible case that they have a chance to be the nominee.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis , former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley , entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie appear to have met the Republican National Committees (RNC) polling and donor requirements for the Miami stage, according to their campaigns.

DeSantis has long been considered the closest GOP challenger to Trump, and Haley has gained recent traction, threatening DeSantis for that second-place slot. Strategists pointed to the pair as likely standouts at the next debate as they jostle to close the gap with Trump.

Trumps former Vice President Mike Pence, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, who were on the second debate stage last month, have until Nov. 6 to make the cut.

If youre not able to qualify for the debate, weeks before the Iowa caucuses, you need to consider the state of your candidacy, said GOP strategist Alex Conant. If youre not on the debate stage, unless youre Donald Trump, youre not running for president.

The Miami debate will be a key opportunity for more prominent candidates  such as DeSantis and Haley  to build on their support, strategists said, but it may be even more crucial for candidates who have been struggling to move the needle  such as Pence or Burgum.

The debates are the only time when the trajectory of the race could change. The only time when voters are tuned in, when you have a lot of media coverage, and can rise or fall, Conant said, pointing to Haleys notable boost after her previous debate performance as an example.

Ramaswamy, despite appearing to qualify, has said he might skip the event, and he said this week that he expects a strong showing in Iowa. He would join Trump in declining to participate: The front-runner passed on the first two debates and plans to hold a rally in Florida as counterprogramming on the night of the third.

The Nov. 8 debate comes just over nine weeks before the Iowa caucuses, the first election in the GOP nominating process, set for Jan. 15, 2024. The debates so far have been set roughly five and six weeks apart, and the RNC hasnt yet announced plans for an additional debate in the 2023 calendar.

Unless they plan something [in] early January  this will be a last chance for these candidates to speak to an audience of roughly 10 million people, said Justin Sayfie, a Florida-based Republican strategist. So its a unique opportunity before the Iowa caucus.

Previous presidential election cycles have seen debates scheduled for December and early January  but this years process has been really accelerated, with fewer and less frequent debates so far than the 2016 election, said Aaron Kall, an expert on presidential debates and the director of debate for the University of Michigan Debate Program.

There just hasnt been a lot of transparency this time, and a lot of rumors, Kall said, pointing to earlier speculation that the third debate would be held in Alabama, as well as questions about the RNCs debate qualification criteria. He attributed the more chaotic rollout this year in part to the unique circumstances of a former president running as the party front-runner  and not participating in the debate.

As the holiday season approaches, voters might tune out of campaign news, he said, making the Miami debate maybe the last opportunity, given this years spacing out of the debate schedule, to capture significant attention before next year.

There are likely plans for additional debates in and around early voting states, Kall noted, but there may not be many more opportunities left for the candidates before the voting starts. In 2016, GOP candidates held a seventh debate in Iowa just days before the caucuses.

The spread-out debate schedule during this cycle might also be making it more difficult for candidates to gain momentum from their performances when they do make the stage, Kall said.

They have a good performance, and then theres not another one for five weeks  it kind of decreases the attention and doesnt allow them to get in a rhythm.

Pence acknowledged last week that his campaign has an uphill climb for the Republican nomination. His campaign raised around $3.3 million in the third fundraising quarter, and it accrued around $620,000 in debt.

Christies campaign raised nearly $3.8 million, according to third-quarter filings, and Burgums raised $3.4 million. Those dollars trail DeSantiss reported $15 million and Haleys reported $11 million during the same period.

Scott reported raised nearly $6 million but had a high burn rate. The senator recently shifted campaign resources to open new headquarters in Iowa and campaign there every week between the November debate and the January caucuses.

Trump is eclipsing his rivals in both polling and fundraising numbers, and his absence loomed large over the previous Milwaukee and Simi Valley debates. Many are hopeful the GOP field will winnow down in the near future, so support can consolidate behind a non-Trump contender and make the race with the former president more competitive.

Looking forward, Sayfie said that while the upcoming third debate is a key chance for candidates to talk to voters before the Iowa caucuses  and to try to leapfrog over DeSantis to snag second place  the January caucuses themselves are also a unique opportunity.

Goal number one: win Iowa, Sayfie said. I dont think the way to determine the success of the debate performance is based on a bump in national polls. Thats the wrong way to look at it, because history has shown that if you win Iowa, you can get a little bit of momentum.

Brian Seitchik, a Republican strategist and former Trump campaign staffer, suggested many of the non-Trump candidates are sticking in the race to raise their national profile and set themselves up to gun for other positions  in a possible future Trump administration or elsewhere.

Seitchik said hes not sure it matters at this point whether the field gets smaller, arguing that if Trump wins in Iowa and New Hampshire, this thing is over.

The third debate has even higher polling and donor criteria than the first two events, which Kall noted the RNC is likely hiking up quickly in an effort to make the field smaller.

The GOP presidential contenders have to show theyre polling at 4 percent or higher in two eligible national polls, or in one national poll and one early state poll from two separate carve out states  Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada or South Carolina.

Theyll also need to boast at least 70,000 unique donors, including at least 200 from each of 20 or more states and/or territories  up from 50,000 required in last months California debate. Campaign spokespeople for Haley, DeSantis, Ramaswamy and Christie told The Hill that they appear to have hit the requirements to qualify.

If youre not on the debate stage, you have zero chance of winning the nomination and zero chance of winning any of the early primary states. Its essential to be on the debate stage, Sayfie said.

The third debate will take place at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County in Florida from 8-10 p.m. ET, hosted by NBC News with partners Salem Radio Network and the Republican Jewish Coalition.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Longtime White House correspondent Brian Karem writes a weekly column for Salon.

The clowns continue to burn down their circus.

Late Tuesday, the clowns started whispering, Who is Mike Johnson? That murmur spread across the country  and was even heard in Johnsons home district. Before that point, there was even some discussion of pulling Gilligan from his deserted island and nominating him to be House speaker.

But by noon on Wednesday it was obvious the Republicans were tired, worn out and beaten down, so Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana  whose greatest claim to fame has been to deny that Joe Biden won the 2020 election, and who also proposed ways to overturn that election  was finally elected as speaker of the House.

It makes as much sense as anything else Ive seen on Capitol Hill in the last three weeks.

Let me digress.

As a young boy I was a NASA enthusiast.

I collected every newspaper clipping I could about the Gemini and Apollo missions (I was too young for the Mercury missions).

My dad also bought me a telescope. Id stare into the night sky and wonder how many planets revolved around the infinite number of stars in the universe, and whether anyone was staring back at me wondering the same thing.

Now I can only wonder how many of the possible civilizations out there destroyed themselves out of greed, lust, stupidity and self-absorption, the depths of which have lately been reached in the House of Representatives.

Our world is divided, our country is distraught. Wars are raging, and according to the president of the United States, our country is at an inflection point.

We arent currently threatened by asteroids, comets or alien invasion; just by our own hubris. All politicians suffer from this affliction, but no group of alleged human beings on the planet suffer it more acutely than what remains of the Republican Party.

More than anything else, that party has come to resemble its lord and master Donald Trump . It cant govern. It cant pass a bill. It cant acknowledge the needs of others. It is narrow-minded, cynical and overtly misanthropic, in the truest sense of that word. The party is racist, misogynistic, anti-poor, elitist, delusional and greedy for power at all costs. That also perfectly describes Trump. This is his spirit writ large, trying and failing on another grand scale.

If the Republican Party was in elementary school, what grade would it be in?

Ive asked that once or twice. Sometimes I get a smirk. Maybe an attempt at a sarcastic reply.

But I ask the question sincerely. The average sixth grader understands the basics of government  at least until the GOP passes more cuts to public education.

Heres a relevant question: If you cant govern yourselves, why would you expect the rest of the country to believe you can govern us?

The answer I hear most often to that question is some variety of, This is the way it works. Its sloppy. Thats democracy.

In that answer theres an implied admission of an absence of self-control, but also the suggestion that being out of control is part of the democratic process. Thats like saying that even if you drink a gallon of bourbon, youre still sober.

No. No, youre not.

You have to govern your own bad behavior before you try to govern others. The level of our political debate has to be higher than that. American politics should be more than an endless argument among pre-pubescent swimmers at a private country club pool or, perhaps more accurately, a Lord of the Flies reality show starring Mike Johnson as Piggy.

Wednesday dawned with Joe Biden on the South Lawn talking about imagination and working together, standing next to the Australian prime minister. He was talking about our relationship with a Pacific ally, but reading between the lines there was no doubt that he was talking to the clowns down the street who were making a mockery of American democracy in Congress.

Republican dysfunction did not end with a collective sigh of relief and the election of a House speaker whose credentials are threadbare or nonexistent. The last three weeks of GOP pandemonium threatened not just the legislative branch, but the entire government.

Ive spent those last three weeks visiting both the White House and the Capitol multiple times. It has never been worse. While the pre-pubescent pustules in the House were pissing all over their sandbox on Tuesday afternoon, Biden honored scientists and innovators in the East Room of the White House. Some of the very best among us were honored for innovative work on biomechanics, the internet, diversity and research into Alzheimers, heart disease, eye disease, cancer and botany.

It was humbling to see this diverse group of scientists and innovators, a representative group of people who often toil away anonymously for years, many never expecting to be honored but soldiering on in their work. When you do the right thing, no one may ever recognize what you do, but you do it anyway, a family member of one award recipient told me.

I left the East Room both impressed and wondering why we cant get people like that in Congress.

Those Republicans whove spent the last few weeks in a fetid conference room, either in the Longworth building or the Capitol itself, arguing with each other amid the odors of flop-sweat, cigar and cigarette butts, stale coffee and pizza, gave the impression of a never-ending frat party held by the Omegas in Animal House.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration has kept its distance. I asked White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Tuesday if the president would consider inviting leading Republicans to the White House to discuss leadership issues. She said it wasnt necessary because a majority in Congress, even at its divisive worst, remains supportive of aid to both Ukraine and Israel. After Johnson was elected on Wednesday afternoon I asked the president, at the end of his bilateral press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, whether he planned to invite the new speaker of the House to the White House. He didnt answer; I wasnt listed among his note cards of pre-selected questioners.

Its an important question. Biden has made deals to supply military aid to Ukraine and Israel and also announced a defense deal with Australia. All of that includes spending that must be authorized by Congress. There is no guarantee that the Republicans who currently control the House can deliver on anything before the next election, when they will face the ire of voters weary of their Lord of the Flies attitude.

Worst of all, if the House fails to pass another continuing resolution or to otherwise deal with the budget by Nov. 17, that would lead to another government shutdown. As reported in the Hill, Congress has passed budgets on time only four times in the last 46 years  not once since 1997. Otherwise, its been a series of shutdowns and continuing resolutions, which are essentially temporary permission for the government to keep operating with the previous years budget and without any new programs. We can only hope to avoid the 34-day shutdown at the end of 2018, when Republicans also held the House majority.

Government shutdowns were unheard of before a one-day shutdown of the Federal Trade Commission during the Carter administration, which cost the government $700,000  barely a rounding error in todays budget math. It was Ronnie Reagan, better known as the godfather of todays Republican Party, who made shutdowns popular, using them as leverage on three different occasions. Since then theyve only grown in popularity, with both Democrats and Republicans being equally responsible. The fact that shutdowns have become a normal part of politics is symbolic of the ongoing chaotic mess our government has become since Reagan unleashed hell upon us.

It is time for all this to come to an end. Joe Biden, who has manifested a return to American norms on the International stage, needs to jumpstart that attitude here at home.

Reagan created a lot of the discomfort, disconnect and disunity in this country  and given that his stewardship of this country began more than 40 years ago (and also, unfortunately, bequeathed us Mitch McConnell), there arent too many people around who understand when the chaos began, or how.

But Biden knows, and he should do something about it.

Biden complained in the East Room Tuesday that humanitarian aid isnt getting into Gaza fast enough. When I asked National Security Council spokesman John Kirby about this later, he said the president blamed actors in the region for the delay (without specifically naming anyone).

Thats all well and good, but if Biden is upset now, what will he think when our own government becomes complicit in this delay because of self-inflicted chaos and drama in the House? Thats not just idle conjecture. Its a legitimate concern, based on watching Republican members of Congress tear down political institutions in hopes of ruling over the rubble and cheering for themselves while our country sinks into division.

So Mike Johnson, a full-on Donald Trump sycophant, joins the choir of fools in the Republican-controlled House who dont understand how government works and dont care, and who wont make any effort to solve real problems. That reign of error will not end with the election of a new speaker, nor for that matter as long as Republicans control the House.

This country is in dire need of adults like those honored at the White House on Tuesday. Without them, the chaos first introduced into the body politic 40 years ago will continue to fester and spread.

Late in the day on Wednesday the Republicans all gave a perfunctory cheer at Johnsons elevation to the speakership, but the entire spectacle reminded me of the scene on the bus at the end of The Graduate.

Now what?

The tired phrase, Be careful what you wish for has never rung so true.

Americas cold reality is far different than the romantic Republican dysfunctional fever dream, born of dissatisfaction, disinterest, dismal verisimilitude and disingenuous divisiveness.

Go back and check out Terminator 2. Theres a scene when the young John Connor says, Were not going to make it, people, and is met with a dystopian response from the Terminator: It is in your nature to destroy yourselves.

The Republican clowns in the House are living proof. They would welcome that destruction with a smile.

Thats the cold reality we face.
GOP Sens. Roger Marshall, Ted Cruz , JD Vance and Mike Lee introduced a stand-alone bill to funnel aid to Israel without tying it to Ukraine aid on Thursday.

The bill, called the Israel Supplemental Appropriations Act, is an alternative to President Bidens $106 billion emergency supplemental bill he requested from Congress last week.

The Israel Supplemental Appropriations Act, if passed, would provide $14.3 billion to Israel, including $10.6 billion for assistance through the Department of Defense (DOD), $3.5 billion for foreign military financing and $200 million to help protect U.S. embassies and personnel.

From left to right, GOP Sens. Ted Cruz, JD Vance, Roger Marshall and Mike Lee.

BIDEN ADMIN URGES MAJOR FUNDING INCREASES FOR AID TO UKRAINE, ISRAEL AND GAZA CIVILIANS

The legislation expedites funding for Israel by allocating resources to bolster Israel's defense capabilities, specifically focusing on enhancing systems like the Iron Dome and Iron Beam, as well as replacing weapons provided by the DOD.

The bill also grants the authority to supply Israel with equipment and services already available in U.S. stockpiles and permits an increase in the quantity of weapons stored in Israel. Additionally, it earmarks funds to safeguard U.S. embassies and personnel within Israel, as well as facilitate the return of American citizens from the region.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

President Biden visited Israel amid the country's war with Hamas.

Notably, the legislation discontinues all aid directed toward Gaza, a measure designed to prevent potential diversion to Hamas terrorists. It also draws a line between sharing aid with Ukraine, prohibiting any of the funds to be used for aid to Ukraine.

"The brutal, savage attacks launched by Hamas against our closest ally in the Middle East, Israel, have sent shock waves across the world," Marshall, leading author of the bill, said in a statement. "My colleagues and I firmly believe that any aid to Israel should not be used as leverage to send tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine. Any package that does so would result in funds and resources being delayed in Israel's time of need."

CRUZ SAYS BIDEN'S $105 BILLION FUNDING REQUEST DESIGNED TO WORSEN BORDER CRISIS

WHITE HOUSE NEGOTIATES COMBINED AID TO ISRAEL AND UKRAINE WITH SENATE

Cruz said "this bill is about one thing and one thing only: getting our Israeli allies the aid they need, as fast as possible, for as long as it takes them to utterly eradicate Hamas."

"The overwhelming majority of the Senate is ready to support an aid package for Israel. The House would readily pass this billthey are frankly not ready to pass anything else, least of all more aid to the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. We should pass Israel aid immediately and then move on to those," he said.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, attends a Senate Judiciary Committee markup in the Hart Building on Thursday, May 11, 2023.

Vance, a vocal critic of more aid to Ukraine, said assistance to Israel "should not depend on whether we continue to provide aid to Ukraine."

"Despite what the president claims, they are unique conflicts that should be handled individually," he said.

Lee echoed Vance and added, "If the Biden administrations case for additional Ukraine aid is not strong enough to stand on its own, then packaging them is an insulting request to lay before Congress."

Last week, the Biden administration's Office of Management and Budget sent Congress an emergency supplemental funding package request totaling $106 billion to aid Ukraine, Israel and to speed up asylum processing at the southern border.

The funding proposal includes $61.4 billion for Ukraine, $14.3 billion for Israel (with $10.6 billion allocated for military aid), $13.6 billion for border protection (including measures to combat the flow of fentanyl), and significant investments in Indo-Pacific security assistance, totaling around $7.4 billion. Additionally, there is $9 billion earmarked for humanitarian aid in Ukraine, Israel and Gaza.

Senators will have to agree on a package, with Republicans likely proposing several amendments before it is sent back to Bidens office for signature.





Original article source: GOP senators introduce stand-alone bill to aid Israel without more funding to Ukraine
In this Nov. 18, 2020 file photo, a worker wearing a mask walks past a Boeing 737 Max 9 built for Aeromexico as it is prepared for a flight from Renton Municipal Airport, in Renton, Washington. | Ted S. Warren, Associated Press

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox presented a new strategic partnership plan to Mexican authorities on Wednesday that aims to strengthen business and cultural ties between Mexico and Utah.

The strategy was unveiled during the governors second trade mission to Mexico in two years. It contains 12 recommendations for partnership opportunities relating to job creation, trade, tourism and language acquisition.

Our relationship with Mexico is the most important international alliance Utah has, Cox said in a statement Wednesday. We have long enjoyed economic and diplomatic connections that have been mutually beneficial and this plan will only strengthen our ties.

This week, Cox and other Utah government officials and business leaders, including World Trade Center Utah CEO Jonathan Freedman, met with the countrys secretaries of economy, tourism and foreign affairs, as well as executives from Aeromexico.

The trip highlighted the unique economic relationship between Utah and Mexico and was well-received by the delegations Mexican counterparts.

We celebrate this type of initiative, Mexico Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said in a statement. Its important that we make the most of the excellent state of Mexico-U.S. relations to deepen our economic ties and build together a true binational and regional community that increases trade, social inclusion and job creation.

Why is Gov. Cox in Mexico?

Speaking from Mexico City, Freedman explained the goals of the trade mission, which was organized by the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity, in concert with the Mexican Consulate in Salt Lake City and World Trade Center Utah, a nonprofit that handles trade promotion on behalf of the state and helps Utah companies grow internationally.

Were invested in Mexico. And were here to strengthen ties, to build relationships, to build on momentum, and were finding that our Mexican counterparts feel the exact same way, Freedman said in an interview with the Deseret News.

Freedman said the delegations schedule was packed with meetings with government officials in the countrys capital as well as industry leaders in Monterrey, which Freedman called the manufacturing capital of Mexico. The goal of the trip is to open up markets for Utah companies by better understanding the political and economic landscape in the Latin American country as offshoring to some Asian countries becomes more difficult.

Theres a concerted effort, and there has been for some time, to diversify out of China, Freedman said. Theres a highly skilled and affordable labor market in Mexico. Its a friendly nation to us. Its an ally. There are lots of reasons to diversify into Mexico and I think that any company should consider a diversified supply chain.

Mexico is Utahs largest import market and third largest export market, according to the U.S. Trade Census, with imports topping $4.5 billion in 2022 and exports exceeding $1 billion, a 50% increase from 2018.

This trade supports 51,000 Utah jobs, totaling $5.6 billion in 2022, according to Mexicos secretary of exterior relations.

What did the governors trade mission accomplish?

On Tuesday, Cox met with executives from Delta and Aeromexico and celebrated two new flights from Salt Lake City to Mexico City and Monterrey.

Freedman said that discussions with officials at the U.S. embassy touched on the current state of immigration at the southern border but said conversations with Mexican leaders were never political.

All of our business meetings have been in the spirit of partnership and working together, Freedman said.

A specific topic of discussion was how Utahs supplement industry, which is one of the biggest exporters to Mexico, has been disrupted by inconsistent regulatory practices from Mexicos equivalent to the FDA.

These inspections can take months. And its very disruptive to company supply chains, Freedman said.

The plan presented by Utahs governor to Mexican authorities included 12 specific recommendations to improve the relationship between the two regions. They range from organizing business events for industries dependent on Utah-Mexico trade and creating pathways for Mexican professionals to gain work experience in specific sectors in the U.S. to promoting Mexican cultural festivals and encouraging the states institutions of learning to add or expand language programs.

According to the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity there are nearly 340,000 Mexicans and people of Mexican descent in Utah. This is roughly 10% of the states population, including 20% of Salt Lake County, making the group the states second largest ethnic population, according to the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute.

The Deseret News reached out to the Governors Office of Economic Opportunity for this story but did not receive a comment before publication.

Who else was on the Mexican trade mission?

There were 17 businesses represented on the trade mission, Freedman said. They include: IsoTalent, Angel Studios, Boom A.I., Dorsey & Whitney LLP, Dustless Technologies, H-11 Digital Forensics, Homie Real Estate, KPMG, Lion Energy, Malouf Companies, nClouds, OneMeta AI, RevRoad Capital, San Diablo Artisan Churros, SnugZ USA, SynergySuite, TETON Sports, Traeger Grills and Ultradent.

State Sens. Mike McKell and Luz Escamilla, State Rep. A. Cory Maloy, and representatives from Utahs office of tourism were also there.

Contributing: Suzanne Bates
This undated photo provided on Mon., Oct. 16, 2023, by the Chicago chapter of the Council On American Islamic Relations, shows Wadea Al-Fayoume. A Palestinian-American woman seriously injured in a suspected hate crime that left her 6-year-old son dead in a suburb of Chicago is asking the public to pray for peace as she recuperates from her injuries. Hanaan Shahin issued a statement Tuesday through the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations after meeting with the groups executive director a day earlier. (CAIR-Chicago via AP)

JOLIET, Ill. (AP)  A man accused of murder, attempted murder and a hate crime in an attack on a Palestinian-American woman and her son was indicted Thursday by an Illinois grand jury.

The eight-count indictment against Joseph Czuba, 71, tracks the charges that were filed soon after the fatal stabbing of Wadea Al-Fayoume, 6, and the wounding of Hanaan Shahin on Oct. 14. Authorities said the victims were targeted because of their Muslim faith.

Shahin told police that Czuba, her landlord in Plainfield in Will County, was upset over the Israel-Hamas war and attacked them after she had urged him to pray for peace.

Shahin, 32, is recovering from multiple stab wounds. Hundreds of people attended her son's funeral on Oct. 16.

The murder charge in the indictment against Czuba describes the boy's death as the result of exceptionally brutal or heinous behavior.

Defense attorney George Lenard has said he won't comment on the case outside court. Czuba, who is in jail, is expected to return to court Monday in Joliet, 50 miles (80 kilometers) southwest of Chicago.

Earlier this week, Shahin issued a statement through the Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. She asked the public to pray for peace and said her son was her best friend.

The stabbings are part of rising hostility against Muslims and Palestinians in the U.S. since Hamas attacked Israel. Elsewhere in Illinois, a Chicago-area man was charged with a hate crime in an assault against two Muslims, and an Islamic day school canceled class after receiving threats.
Humans and some whales are the only known species in which females live long after they stop being able to reproduce.

A new paper in the journal Science on Thursday argues that chimpanzees should now be added to the list, and offers clues about the evolutionary imperatives behind menopause in women.

"Chimpanzees have been studied in the wild for a long time, and you might think there's nothing left to learn about them," senior author Kevin Langergraber of Arizona State University told AFP. "I think this research shows us that's not true."

The vast majority of mammal females produce offspring until the end of their lives, but humans experience a decline in reproductive hormones and the permanent cessation of ovary function around age 50.

Females of five species of toothed whale, including orcas and narwhals, similarly survive well beyond fertile age.

It isn't obvious why natural selection would favor this trait, and only among a handful of species.

Some scientists have put forward the "grandmother hypothesis" as a possible explanation: the idea that older females enter a post-reproductive state to consume fewer resources and focus on improving their grandchildren's odds of survival.

- Demographics and hormones -

In the new paper, researchers examined the mortality and fertility rates of 185 female chimpanzees in the Ngogo community of wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, Uganda, between 1995 and 2016.

Specifically, the team calculated a metric called the post-reproductive representation (PrR), which is the average proportion of the adult life span that is spent in a post-reproductive state.

Past attempts that used demographic data to study whether chimps underwent menopause were hampered by haphazard statistical methods, lead author Brian Wood of the University of California, Los Angeles, told AFP, with PrR proving a more robust measure.

It showed Ngogo chimpanzee females -- but not other chimpanzees from other populations -- lived on average 20 percent of their adult years in a post-reproductive state, just a little under what has been observed in humans.

To exclude the possibility that, say, an STD swept through the community causing mass sterility among older females in the past, the team paired the demographic data with hormonal status.

They took urine samples of 66 females ranging in age and reproductive status, and measured the levels of gonadotropins, estrogens, and progestins, finding the hormonal patterns closely mirrored what was seen in human females experiencing menopausal transition.

- Chimps aren't good grandmas -

Still, the case for menopause in chimps isn't quite closed, say the authors, offering two possible interpretations.

Wild animals have been found to have substantial post-reproductive life spans in captivity where they are protected from predators and disease, and it's possible the Ngogo chimps similarly experienced unusually favorable conditions, such as an absence of leopards that were hunted to extinction in the area.

Alternatively, the remote Ngogo chimps might be more typical of historic populations that were untouched by human activities such as hunting and logging.

If that's so, said Wood, then scientists need to update their evolutionary theories of menopause.

In chimpanzee society, daughters leave the community in which they are born, while the males who remain mate promiscuously.

That means males don't know who their offspring are, and by extension, grandmothers don't know which grandoffspring are theirs -- so the "grandmother hypothesis" won't apply.

Instead, Wood said that menopause might have evolved to reduce competition for limited breeding opportunities between aging females and their daughters.

When a female chimp first enters a new group, she starts out with a low level of relatedness to other members, though this increases over time as she breeds.

Since her genes are by then widespread, she has less to gain in breeding conflict against a younger female.

Dan Franks of the University of York who has studied postmenopausal killer whales, described the study as "fascinating".

"This research presents the first instance of menopause occurring in non-human primates in the wild," he said, adding that the second interpretation offered by the authors was "tantalizing" in terms of its evolutionary implications.

The authors hope to study the question further among bonobos, who along with chimpanzees are our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

ia/dw
The first-ever director of the Granville Historical Society brings strong backgrounds in education and the arts as well as history to the organization.

Karen Bailey, a retired educator, began her part-time position with the Society in early October, said Heidi Drake, president of the Societys Board of Managers.

Karen Bailey, a retired educator, began her part-time position as the first-ever director of the Granville Historical Society in early October.

"We are thrilled to welcome Karen to the Granville Historical Society and know that her passion and enthusiasm will be a tremendous source of inspiration to all who meet her," Drake said. "She is a great addition to our organization and the Granville Community."

Although she currently lives in Hebron, where she is renovating a 19th-century home, Bailey lived in Granville for two years when she first arrived to be close to her daughter and grandchildren. She served on the Village Planning Commission during that time, meeting people and learning about Granvilles history, she said.

"Growing up in the planned town of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, where education was a top priority, I thought all towns were planned to support beautiful, healthy communities where new people were welcome and the legacy and history was kept alive and honored," she said. "I learned, of course, that this was not the case, so moving to Granville four years ago was like coming home. I am very excited to be the first director of the Granville Historical Society as I it allows me to put down roots, meet people and contribute to this thriving community."

"If there is one thing I want people to know about me, it is my profound gratitude to be here," she added. "Granville is a special place and I am looking forward to many magical memories."

Karens work experience has been primarily in education and the arts, with an emphasis on administration.

"My education includes art, architecture, education, and philosophy," she said. "While living in Tennessee, my husband and I purchased an abandoned WPA-built school building, renovated it, lived in it and started a school there as well. It was at that point that I started researching historic preservation and became passionate about old buildings and the history of where I lived and worked."

That trend continued in Colorado, where she saved another historic school building that was eventually converted into condominiums.

She is now working on rescuing the Thomas Cully House in Hebron, built in 1830.

"When this historic house came on the market in Hebron, I bought it because it reminded me of my school building in Tennessee  neglected and in need of work, but with great character, she said. I joined the Hebron Historic Society and have been researching getting it on the National Register of Historic Places. I currently rent out the first floor, live and work as an artist upstairs, and take daily walks on the Ohio Canal Trail that starts right behind my house."

The Historical Society position was attractive to her, because, "Its a wonderful opportunity to connect to the community here in Granville, which I fell in love with when I moved here. Theres such a rich history."

"I really want to hit the ground running," she added. "I want to be sensitive to the culture. But I dont want to be too sleepy. I want to make sure my energy is infused. I was in parks and recreation for heritage tourism and know how that can contribute to a community. But Granville does it almost by nature."

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Granville Historical Society hires retired educator as first director
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) moved to force a vote on censuring Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) on Thursday, accusing the Michigan Democrat of antisemitic activity and sympathizing with terrorist organizations.

Greene called the measure to the floor as a privileged resolution Thursday morning, which forces the chamber to take action on the legislation within two legislative days. Leadership can either bring the measure to the floor for a vote or motion to table it, both of which would require majority support. House lawmakers leave Washington on Thursday evening and return Wednesday.

How to handle the censure resolution will be one of the first big questions facing Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who was elected to the top job Wednesday following a three-week saga over who would succeed former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) following his ouster.

It will likely also pose a test for Democrats, some of whom have criticized Tlaibs recent remarks.

Top Stories from The Hill

The three-page resolution lists previous comments from Tlaib  the first woman of Palestinian descent to serve in Congress  pertaining to Israel, Palestine and Jewish people. It includes some comments she made following the surprise attack earlier this month by Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group, on Israel.

On Oct. 8, one day after the attack by Hamas, Tlaib wrote in a statement that the path to that future must include lifting the blockade, ending the occupation, and dismantling the apartheid system that creates the suffocating, dehumanizing conditions that can lead to resistance, adding, the failure to recognize the violent reality of living under siege, occupation, and apartheid makes no one safer.

That statement drew criticism from some House Democrats and Israels ambassador to the U.S., Michael Herzog, who wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter: How much more blood needs to be spilled for you to overcome your prejudice and unequivocally condemn Hamas, a U.S.-designated terror organization?

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Greenes resolution said Tlaib made those comments instead of denouncing the horrors of Hamas slaughtering Israelis and demanding the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Additionally, the resolution accuses Tlaib of leading an insurrection at the United States Capitol Complex following a protest in a Capitol office building last week in support of an Israel-Hamas cease-fire. The protest was organized by the organizations Jewish Voice for Peace and IfNotNow, and it resulted in several arrests.

Tlaib, however, was not at the rally, according to a source familiar with the matter. She did, however, speak at a rally after the war broke out that called for a cease-fire.

Tlaib said in a statement Thursday that Greenes unhinged resolution is deeply Islamophobic and attacks peaceful Jewish anti-war advocates.

I am proud to stand in solidarity with Jewish peace advocates calling for a ceasefire and an end to the violence. I will not be bullied, I will not be dehumanized, and I will not be silenced, she added.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Clemson Eye has almost as many locations as it does ophthalmology services. Still, the doctors, clinicians and administrators aim to provide patients with the individual care they need, says the companys CEO.

We developed a mission statement: Making lives better with personalized care, says Mary Lou Parisi, CEO of Clemson Eye. The word personalized is intentional because we want all of our doctors and teammates to strive for that.

Mary Lou Parisi, CEO, Clemson Eye, came to Clemson in 1994 with her husband, Dr. Joseph Parisi. Together, they've built an eye care business with 12 locations and three surgery centers.

Though the practice will continue to grow, innovate and seek out talented staff, patient care is at the forefront, Parisi says.

Our core values are to offer heartfelt service, to be people-focused, honest and transparent with patients and each other. In everything we do, we ask: Are we living our mission? Are our behaviors consistent with our core values?

Clemson Eye was founded as Clemson Ophthalmology in 1970 by Robert Osborne Brown, M.D.

Two decades later, Mary Lou and her husband, Dr. Joseph Parisi, were seeking a climate warmer than their home near Toronto, Canada  and an ophthalmology practice.

We looked all over the country. Every time, we came back to Clemson. It seemed perfect  is perfect. We love Greenville, the Upstate, the mountains, Mary Lou says.

Joseph Parisi was born in the United States but grew up in Canada, where he went to medical school and completed a residency in ophthalmology and a fellowship.

The family made their move in 1994; Dr. Parisi bought the practice from Dr. Brown, who still lives in Clemson after serving for 25 years in eye care missions overseas.

Meanwhile, Mary Lou co-founded an international furniture design and manufacturing business with distribution in five countries. She stayed in the business for eight years, until the economic downturn after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Soon, she became more involved in her husbands business.

My husband was having some struggles managing the practice. Typically, doctors spend their entire day with patients. They trust that everything's firing properly on the business side. Its a complicated business model, she explains. Before I knew it, I got drawn in, and I loved it.

Mary Lou saw an opportunity not just to manage, but to expand.

Joseph Parisi, now Medical Director of Clemson Eye, was already performing sophisticated cataract surgeries, his wife says. (Since then, he has performed more than 30,000 cataract and refractive  vision improving  surgeries using advanced techniques, lenses and equipment).

Hes done LASIK since 1997, the early days of LASIK, Mary Lou says.

My husband gave us a great foundation, she says. I said, We can grow this. I love to grow things. We partnered with Brian Johnson, M.D., and other great doctors and opened practices in Easley, Greenville, Anderson, the Midlands, and now Seneca.

Since 2002, the business has expanded from one doctor at one location to 30 physicians, providing a full spectrum of eye care services at 14 locations, including three surgery centers. The newest is in Seneca.

We couldnt have done it without the heartfelt dedication of our talented doctors and team, Mary Lou says.

It wasnt so much about being a big business as it was to expand the quality of our care, what we could offer to people's lives. If we believe  and I do  that we are transforming lives, its a missionary philosophy in many ways.

Like other locations, the new Seneca office has its own doctors, manager, specialties and style.

Each clinic has its heartbeat, Mary Lou says.

Modeled after the Clemson Eye building on Pelham Road in Greenville, the Seneca facility has numerous treatment rooms; a surgical suite for cataract, glaucoma, and plastic and reconstructive facial procedures; a medical aesthetics wing; plus, skincare products, eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Its exciting for me and Joe, Mary Lou says. The first practice in Clemson is just 10 minutes down the road. Here we are, 20 years later, with a full-blown clinic and ambulatory surgery center in Seneca. Many of our patients live in Oconee County.

In addition to surgery, Clemson Eye has always embraced aesthetic care, she says.

We had aesthetics in the Clemson practice going back to 2002. It just continued to grow, Mary Lou explains. Did you know Botox was the invention of ophthalmologists? They used it to treat patients who had spasms in their eyelids. That's how it started.

Today, nurse practitioners and aestheticians specialize in cosmetic injections, laser skin treatments, facials and other services. The business also has a Morpheus8 skin treatment system that can eliminate sun damage, improve the appearance of stretch marks, and tighten any part of the body, including the neck and jaw, Mary Lou says.

Clemson Eye medical spas are at the clinics on Pelham Road, Harrison Bridge Road in Simpsonville, and Union Station Drive in Seneca.

Some of the surgeons from Clemson Eye: from left, top row, Donald Glaser, MD; Alison Smith, MD; Brian Johnson, MD; Adam Easterling, MD; H. Keith Riddle Jr., MD; from left, bottom row, Justin Roman, MD; Joseph Parisi, MD; Balaji Perumal, MD; S. Jacob Montgomery Jr., MD.

Weve always been big promoters of Clemson Eye Aesthetics. They have an incredible following, Mary Lou says.

That said, we're fundamentally a medical eye care practice. Our M.D.s oversee what happens across our service lines and approve everything, she says.

Clemson Eye recently received two 2023 Communitys Choice  Best of the Upstate awards, for eye care and aesthetics, presented by the Greenville News, greenvilleonline.com, and TALK Greenville magazine. In 2022 and 2023, Clemson Eye was recognized as one of South Carolinas 25 Fastest Growing Companies.

The Clemson Eye team also volunteers with Servants for Sight, which helps people who cant afford eye care.

Our doctors all participate, with exams and completely free surgeries. Many of these patients are almost blind. When they have cataract surgery, it's life-changing, Mary Lou says.

Treatments can be life-changing for others, too. Mary Lou urges everyone, especially those over the age of 50, to have their eyes checked for macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma  the thief of sight, she says. It happens slowly. If you don't get your eyes examined, you'll never know.

Doctors at Clemson Eye believe in treating issues early instead of waiting. Cataract and refractive surgery is our core competency. That is how we started, Mary Lou says.

More than anything, I want people to know that we have some of the most innovative M.D.s, optometrists and aesthetic practitioners in the nation. We're proud of our care.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: Growing The Vision
You are here: Business

China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country's top economic planner, on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of the U.S. state of California.

The MoU concerns strengthening cooperation between the two sides on low-carbon development and the green transition.

Zheng Shanjie, head of the NDRC, on Wednesday met with California Governor Gavin Newsom. The two sides discussed strengthening exchanges and cooperation in the field of green and low-carbon development.
With Generative AI evolving at full throttle, a bright future beckons. The technology has the potential to allow enhanced medical diagnostics, personalized education, optimized resource allocation in humanitarian efforts, and solutions to mitigate the most harmful effects of global warming. However, these same tools may also introduce profound societal disruption.

The technology may soon allow malevolent actors to unleash pandemics, supercharge massive cyberattacks, and accelerate the spread of disinformation. More alarmingly, AI systems may evolve to deceive their human creators, establishing their own objectives in stark contradiction to societal norms. Generative AI is poised to cross thresholds weve never anticipated and for which society is unprepared.

Harris to attend AI summit at former base for WWII codebreakers in UK

This concern is not fear mongering. Its based on the capability as it exists now and the speed with which it advances. Creator of ChatGPT Sam Altman anticipates superintelligence AI capable of surpassing an expert level of skill in most fields and more powerful than any technology ever developed in the next decade.

Dario Amodei, former vice president for research at Open AI and current Anthropic CEO believes AI may grow too independent for human control in the next two years. Finally, computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton, considered by many The Godfather of AI resigned from Google earlier this year over concerns that AI may be more intelligent than we know at this moment.

Despite these warnings, generative AI lacks any governing body, either internationally or within the United States. The technology is moving so fast without any safeguards that the risks grow exponentially. The time to establish guardrails is now and the U.S. must lead in this effort.

Senators Richard Blumenthal and Josh Hawley champion a bipartisan framework for AI legislation that deserves attention. The proposal involves the initiation of a federal independent oversight body to manage the coming evolutions of the technology. This new U.S. government entity will monitor the sale, purchase, or transfer of computational resources exceeding specific thresholds. Microsoft President Brad Smith and the Center for AI Policy publicly support the framework.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, warned the Senate Judiciary Committee on May 16 of a need for a federal agency that licenses any effort above a certain scale of capabilities and capable of shutting down companies that do not comply.

Given the catastrophic potential for misuse, the development of such a licensing structure for General-Purpose AI is a proactive step in establishing a gatekeeping mechanism. The structure must establish regulatory thresholds for computational prowess, developmental cost, and benchmark performance. As the technology advances, these thresholds must be periodically reviewed and, when necessary, updated.

While the Blumental-Hawley legislation offers a structure around which to build legislation and a regulatory body, it lacks any significant details. The concept must develop around regulation of the three key resources in AI development: computing hardware, talent, and data. All three are necessary for significant advances in Generative AI models. While any regulatory body would be challenged to track and legislate the use of data, a regulatory guideline can account for both compute hardware and talent. Capping either one, hardware or talent, would allow a safety valve over the technology.

Computing hardware is the currency of AI power. Access to high-performance Graphic Processing Units (GPUs) capable of enabling deep learning is a determining factor in the future of the technology. GPUs represent a physical aspect of AI that can be monitored and registered. In fact, massive amounts of GPUs are required to train models on large data-sets.

A regulatory framework must require a federal license for purchase of anything over an identified high-risk computer hardware threshold, for example, GPU sets capable of developing an AI that can process more than a septillion (1024) operations. The legislation must require monitoring and reporting of the transfer of any GPU sets beyond the high-risk threshold.

Human talent

Human talent is required to employ the computing hardware. Trained AI professionals train AI sets to unlock the next advancements. Talent costs money - a lot of it - both to train and employ AI scientists and researchers. Here again, development of a specific high-risk threshold, for example, $50 million in developing and employing human talent, is necessary for a regulatory framework. Any amount above the high-risk threshold must be reported and examined for possibly catastrophic use.

Meanwhile, to keep pace with the rest of the world and prevent stifling of the beneficial aspects of the technology, the regulation must include a fast-track system for benign AI applications. This system gets AI developers who arent posing any major security risks out from under the governments authority. Engineers working on AI tools that are not dangerous - self-driving cars, fraud detection systems, and recommender engines  carry on with their work, even if they exceed the hardware or talent thresholds.

The U.S. cannot wait for the international community to develop an AI regulatory body. The Blumental-Hawley framework offers an opportunity for the U.S. to lead the world on AI regulation. International collaborations with bodies like the UKs Frontier AI Taskforce, a team of senior academics appointed to advise the Tory government, can foster information sharing. Multilateral dialogues and global AI safety forums based on the framework will be pivotal in navigating the global challenges of AI. Over time, outreach to NATO countries should focus on the development of an international body overseeing AI governance, with a goal of incorporating the Peoples Republic of China.

The Blumenthal-Hawley concept is a necessary guidepost along the worlds AI journey. It presents a vision of a future where AI is simultaneously safe and salubrious. By embracing and building on this framework, Congress has the opportunity to set a global gold standard for AI regulation. America, with its penchant for innovation and safety, is poised to lead the world not just in AI development, but also in AI stewardship.

Joe Buccino is a retired U.S. Army Colonel who serves as an AI research analyst with the U.S. Department of Defense Defense Innovation Board. His views do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Department of Defense or any other organization.
The abduction by Hamas of over 200 hostages seized from southern Israel on 7 October has propelled the small, gas-rich Arab Gulf state of Qatar into the diplomatic spotlight. Their fate is, to some degree, in Qatar's hands.

Why? For the simple reason that Qatar is fulfilling a unique role as the principal mediator between Israel and its avowed enemy, Hamas.

Both President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have so far thanked Qatar and its ruling emir for its role in securing the release of four hostages. On Wednesday, Israel's national security adviser added his appreciation.

Qatar is confident that with time, patience and persuasion it can negotiate the release of dozens more hostages in the coming days, although any Israeli ground incursion into Gaza would make this far harder.

These hostages, say Qatari officials, would most likely be dual-nationals and non-Israelis.

Hamas is expected to want to hang on to the Israeli servicemen it has kidnapped in the hopes of exchanging them for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

But this also comes with serious risk for Qatar.

As horrific details of Hamas's attack have emerged, some are questioning why this major western ally, which hosts a US military base, is providing a home for the political wing of an organisation proscribed as terrorist by the UK, US and others.

If Qatar's efforts going forward prove largely fruitless then its standing in the West will suffer and pressure on Qatar to close that office may ensue.

To say that these negotiations over hostages are delicate would be an understatement.

Israel is still reeling from the horrific attacks by Hamas and others on that fateful morning of 7 October when the gunmen burst through the border fence, killing around 1,400 people.

Gaza is home to 2.3 million Palestinians and the military wing of Hamas, which has governed the territory since 2007.

It has been pounded by more than two weeks of near round-the-clock Israeli air strikes, killing over 5,000 people so far, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza. The UN is calling for an urgent ceasefire.

Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas which is designated a terrorist organisation by the UK, US and other nations. Little wonder then that the two sides need a mediator in the middle.

Freed hostage Yocheved Lifschitz (C), 85, speaks with the media next to her daughter Sharone

So how do these hostage negotiations work?

Qatar is home to the political leadership of Hamas which has had an office in the capital, Doha, since 2012, headed by its leader Ismail Haniyeh.

Amid the glittering, plate glass and steel skyscrapers of modern Doha, Hamas officials have been sitting down with Qatari diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to work through the complex issue of hostage releases.

The Qatari mediators are not new to this, I am told.

They are from a special government department that oversees the relationship with Hamas in Gaza that has enabled Qatar to pay hundreds of millions of dollars annually to keep Gaza's infrastructure and civil service functioning.

Many of the Qatari officials have been to Gaza and are well known to senior Hamas figures.

Unlike its Gulf neighbours Bahrain and the UAE, Qatar has no formal diplomatic relationship with Israel although in the 1990s it did host an Israeli trade office.

But there are back-channel communications and at key moments during the hostage discussions Qatari officials have been able to speak to their Israeli interlocutors on the phone.

There are a lot of factors at work here.

Hamas seems to gain little from the release of its hostages, but the organisation, which is an Arabic acronym for The Islamic Resistance Movement, has already been criticised for kidnapping women and children. This, says a senior Saudi prince, Turki Al-Faisal, is against Islamic injunctions.

Some analysts believe Hamas wants those hostages, and possibly all its foreign ones too, off its hands sooner rather than later. "It's bad optics for them," says Justin Crump from the strategic thinktank Sibylline.

He points out that keeping the location of so many hostages secret from Israel, as well as feeding and caring for them during a war, must present Hamas with a major logistical challenge.

Qatari officials, though, say releasing hostages buys Hamas time.

With so many families in Israel and elsewhere desperate to secure the release of their loved ones by peaceful means there is mounting pressure on the Israeli government to delay its much vaunted ground incursion into Gaza. It is widely assumed that if and when that begins then the talking will stop.

More on Israel-Gaza war

Then there are the mechanics of the actual releases.

As expected, Hamas has kept them hidden in tunnels underground. Those few that have been released have been handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

But transferring up to 50 individuals or more, as has been talked about, would require a pause in the near-relentless airstrikes. Hamas would like to turn that pause into a ceasefire.

But the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to prosecute this war until Hamas is destroyed and is therefore reluctant to grant Hamas any kind of a breathing space.

Relatives of Israeli hostages make heartfelt appeal at a London press conference

This is not the first time Qatar has emerged as a useful mediator.

For years it hosted a de facto embassy for the Taliban when they were out of power in Afghanistan. I remember reporting on it in 2013 when the Taliban infuriated the Afghan government in Kabul by raising their white flag inside their compound in Doha.

Although the US and its allies were at war with the Taliban it actually suited Washington to have an address where they could talk to them, resulting in the controversial 2020 peace deal that led to the chaotic western pull-out from Kabul the following year.

Residents of Doha used to remark on the extraordinary sight of burly, heavily bearded Taliban commanders, dressed in their shalwar kameez, taking their wives shopping for the latest western boutique fashions in the air-conditioned malls of Doha.

Doha hosts Taliban for talks in 2020

In Iraq and Syria, the Qataris have used their well-connected intelligence contacts to secure the release of certain hostages held by Islamic State (ISIS).

More recently, this year Qatar negotiated the return to their families of four Ukrainian children who had allegedly been abducted by Russia, following a request by Ukraine for Qatar to mediate with Moscow on its behalf.

All of this makes Qatar a valuable partner for a lot of countries, some of whom have been beating a metaphorical path to its door as they seek its help in getting their people out of Gaza.

But Qatar was already walking a curious diplomatic tightrope even before this crisis.

Whether it comes out well from this conflict will depend in large part on whether it can succeed in de-escalating the dire situation in Gaza and deliver on its efforts to secure the release of as many hostages as possible.
Kansas City, Kansas, police on Wednesday were investigating a break-in at firearms dealer Frontier Justice where several guns were taken.

Nine firearms were reported stolen after a burglar gained entry after hours. A stolen car was used to ram a gate at the store, located in the Legends shopping district at 10000 France Family Drive, according to authorities and the business.

In a statement, Jason Wagner, president of Frontier Justice, said the business was working closely with police to apprehend the thief as quickly as possible.

He added that Frontier Justice, which has another store in Lees Summit, is focused on maintaining safety and security.

We aim to be an industry leader in these areas, Wagner said. We have worked hard to create a safe and secure store environment, and we will continue to work hard to refine and improve our security measures and procedures to address new and advanced criminal tactics in order to keep stolen firearms out of criminal hands.

The Kansas City, Kansas, store was closed for maintenance Wednesday.

Police were alerted shortly before midnight to a tripped alarm, said Nancy Chartrand, a police department spokeswoman. As of Wednesday, investigators continued to search for a stolen Kia used in the burglary.

No one was in police custody.

Thefts of Kia vehicles have spiked in Kansas City and across the nation in recent years due to a security flaw that allows car thieves to start vehicles with simple tools like a screwdriver and USB cable.

Chartrand said Wednesday that the police department continues to offer steering-wheel locks for Kia models as KCKPD and other area agencies have taken preventative steps to address the surge in thefts of that make.

The Stars Glenn E. Rice contributed to this report.
A man is recovering in the hospital after officials say he was attempting to drive away officers in a stolen car.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said on Monday, Bryon police officers in Peach County received reports of a vehicle that was reported stolen out of Atlanta believed to be in the area.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Eventually, officers located the stolen silver 2018 Volkswagen Atlas at a McDonalds off Highway 49. No one was inside when they found it.

When an officer tried to locate the driver, a man, identified as 37-year-old Kory Matyas Karpich of Gainesville, left the restaurant and got into the stolen car.

Authorities said the officer told Karpich to leave the car, but he refused. The officer then broke a window and used his Taser on Karpich; however, authorities said the Taser was ineffective.

Karpich then began to drive the car and hit the McDonalds, and the officers patrol car parked behind the stolen vehicle, the GBI said.

TRENDING STORIES:

Authorities said the officer shot into the moving car multiple times, hitting Karpich, as he drove away from the scene.

Karpich then led Bryon officers on a chase into Bibb County, where he crashed. Authorities said he was taken into custody. He was taken to the hospital for medical treatment and is expected to recover from his injuries.

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Authorities said Karpich was charged with possessing drug-related objects, methamphetamine, fleeing or alluding a police officer, obstruction and theft by receiving/having stolen property.

The GBI is continuing the investigation into this incident.

IN OTHER NEWS:
Israel is still reeling from the barbarity of the attacks which claimed 1,400 lives in the worst-ever bloodshed in the nation's history (GIL COHEN-MAGEN)

It's just before sunrise on Saturday October 7, and hundreds of Hamas militants are creeping towards Gaza's border with Israel. Within minutes they will pour across, opening the gates of hell.

On that morning nearly three weeks ago, neither the Israeli soldiers monitoring Gaza's high-tech border fence nor the civilians living in nearby towns and kibbutzim had any idea that Hamas was about to launch the bloodiest attack in Israel's 75-year history.

Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist movement that has ruled Gaza for the past 16 years, called it "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" in reference to the mosque in Jerusalem's Old City that houses the third holiest site in Islam.

It was meticulously planned for months, perhaps for even up to a year, Israeli military experts say, right under the nose of its vaunted military intelligence services.

In one of its videos posted on social media, Hamas militants can be seen leaving their Gaza homes and heading towards the fence, some shouting "Allahu Akbar" -- Arabic for "God is greatest".

The operation begins at 6:28 am (0328 GMT) when the Israeli army suddenly detects hundreds of rockets being fired towards Israeli border communities.

Although the Iron Dome anti-missile system kicks in, it is quickly overwhelmed by the sheer numbers.

- Flooding over the fence -

By this point, the militants have raced across the fields, with those in the front dressed like farmers. Behind them are others wearing military fatigues similar to those worn by Israeli troops.

Others are wearing black T-shirts and gilet vests stuffed with ammunition and grenades. Many wear the green headbands of Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, and carry miniature GoPro-style cameras to capture the events, footage which will later prove crucial in showing how events unfolded.

Some footage will be posted on social media. More will be recovered from the cameras of militants shot dead by Israeli troops and then shared with the media.

The clips show the agility of these well-trained Hamas fighters, their discipline, the weight of weaponry they carry, their automatic weapons, grenades and anti-tank launchers.

"In order to be invisible, they began destroying the surveillance cameras on top of the army watchtowers as well as the remotely controlled machineguns with the help of explosives dropped by drones, or using automatic rifles," military spokesman Colonel Peter Lerner told AFP.

At this stage, "they opened 20 breaches (in the security fence) with the help of explosives placed against the barbed wire or concrete blocks" of the Gaza border, which is how the barrier is constructed, notably around the Erez crossing used by workers to enter Israel.

In breaching the fence, the militants blow apart the long-held myth that Israel was akin to an impregnable fortress.

Hamas actively targets the Israeli army's communication systems to prevent reinforcements from being alerted, also hitting an electricity pylon near kibbutz Beeri.

At the same time, they use speedboats to try and bypass Israel's high-tech naval smart fence. "They didn't succeed," says Lerner.

Everything happens very quickly, with groups of militants crossing through the damaged fence into Israel on motorbikes, in pick-up trucks or on foot, in places accompanied by bulldozers to clear the way if needed.

Fanning out, they head for nearby Israeli towns and kibbutzim, most of which are between one and seven kilometres (up to four miles) from the border fence.

Given how quickly they spread out, it appears that each knows exactly where he is going.

- Unprecedented carnage -

As the sun rises, the carnage begins. From 6:55 am, the militants start forcing their way into several farming communities and also storm a rave where hundreds of young people had been dancing all night on the last day of the Jewish festival of Sukkot.

Surveillance camera footage, subsequently made public, shows the militants calmly walking through the green pathways of Beeri and other kibbutzim such as Kfar Aza, Nir Yitzhak, Nir Oz and Nirim.

Hamas says 1,200 of its "fighters" attacked 50 different sites on that Saturday, the Jewish sabbath, a day Israelis now call "Black Shabbat".

Israel says 25 farming communities and towns near the Gaza border were methodically attacked, among them Sderot, Ofakim and Netivot.

The attacks involved a level of violence unprecedented in both its nature and scale, with the militants going house-to-house and slaughtering more than 1,400 people, the vast majority of them civilians who died on the first day.

Babies, children, teenagers, elderly people and entire families were shot dead, stabbed with knives or mutilated with axes, survivors have said.

Their accounts are backed up by testimonies from first responders, soldiers and volunteers from Zaka, who recover human remains in accordance with Jewish religious law to afford them a proper burial.

Armed residents who served as guards on the kibbutzim tried to keep the attackers at bay, waiting long hours for the army whose troops eventually arrived on foot after deadly clashes with militants and were able to retake areas where terrified residents had been trapped.

The most shocking images emerged from cameras worn by the militants who filmed their atrocities, with more than 40 minutes of raw footage pieced together and shown to the international media.

The image of bodies awaiting identification at Israel's forensic institute in Tel Aviv, where AFP was able to enter, was atrocious, with many horrifically mutilated or burnt beyond recognition.

Visiting reporters were shown hundreds of bodies, the vast majority civilians and among them many youngsters, by institute director Hen Kugel, who was reduced to tears, saying he had "never seen such barbarity, such cruelty".

At one point he showed reporters a tangle of bones and shreds of flesh held together by an electrical cable caked in molten plastic.

"On the scanner, we clearly see two spinal columns, that of a man or woman and that of a child. The posture of the two bodies shows the adult tried to protect the child. They were tied up then burned alive."

Speaking to AFP, a young French-Israeli Zaka volunteer called Tomer C., who did not want to give his surname, said: "Children were tied up together several metres (feet) from their parents who were also bound, before being burnt alive in their homes.

"Some were shot at close range. Whole families were wiped out like that."

In Kfar Aza, the charred remains were found of a young couple huddled together with their three children.

"Young girls were raped, babies had their throats slit. But I am not giving any more details," Lerner told AFP.

"The forensic experts have recorded everything. These are atrocities."

- A nation with PTSD -

By 8:30 am, Hamas militants have stormed six military bases: at Erez in the north, Nahal Oz opposite Gaza City, two others by Beeri kibbutz and Reim across the fence from central Gaza, and two in the south: in Sufa and near kibbutz Kerem Shalom close to the Egyptian border.

The images released by Hamas show militants firing on soldiers and also kidnapping several, some of whom are wearing only underwear.

They also picture themselves alongside the bodies of dead soldiers, while other bodies are driven away in a white jeep.

At the Supernova music festival, which was taking place in a field several kilometres (miles) from the border with central Gaza, militants reach the site using motorised paragliders and also in pickup trucks.

Young ravers initially film them on their smartphones, their curiosity quickly turning to panic as the gunfire starts, with crowds fleeing in all directions.

But for many, it was too late. According to an Israeli count, 270 people were killed at the scene.

"My best friend rang me, I was at home in Tel Aviv. She tried to hide. I heard the screams and the burst of automatic gunfire," young French-Israeli Deborah A. told AFP. She did not want to give her surname.

"I don't even know what they did with her body after she let out one last scream."

The brutality and scope of the attack has left the entire country reeling in shock, with the Israeli press quick to draw parallels with anti-Jewish pogroms and Nazi atrocities.

Adding to the national trauma, the Israeli army announces at around 6:00 pm that both "soldiers and civilians" had been kidnapped by Hamas and taken into Gaza, with 224 people now estimated to have been abducted.

Following intensive Qatari-led negotiations, Hamas has freed four female hostages over the past week, with 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz recalling the "hell" of her abduction from Nir Oz kibbutz where militants threw her onto a motorbike and beat her on the way to Gaza.

- 'We are at war' -

"We are at war," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces on the afternoon of October 7, vowing to hit back with "fire of a magnitude that the enemy has not known".

Western capitals quickly condemn the Hamas operation, with Washington pledging "rock solid and unwavering" support for Israel.

The US military also orders an aircraft carrier group to the eastern Mediterranean "to deter hostile actions against Israel or any efforts toward widening this war following Hamas's attack" in a clear message to Iran which has hailed the "success" of the attacks.

Lebanon's powerful Iran-backed Hezbollah militia also congratulates "the resisting Palestinian people", hailing the actions of Hamas's Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades for its "heroic operation".

Israel's reaction is not slow in coming, with the military calling up 360,000 reservists to join its army that counts 170,000 personnel, among them both those doing mandatory service and career soldiers.

And Israel begins a relentless bombardment of the tiny Palestinian territory which is home to 2.4 million people and has been ruled by Hamas since 2007.

Now entering its 21st day, the bombing has been incessant, with Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry saying the death toll has passed 7,000, with most of the victims civilians, nearly 3,000 of them children.

Since Hamas took over Gaza, the impoverished Palestinian territory has been subject to an Israeli blockade. This has been significantly tightened after the attacks, with the UN saying the tiny strip of land is in the grip of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.

Israeli commentators have been swift to call out Netanyahu's government for wide-ranging security and intelligence failures exposed by the devastating October 7 attacks, triggering a crisis worse than that of the Arab-Israel war of October 1973, when the country was caught flat-footed by a combined Egyptian and Syrian assault.

But accountability will have to wait amid calls for unity in the face of "an existential war".

As night falls on October 7, the search continues for any gunmen left inside Israel, with terrified people still locked inside their homes and the streets deserted.

Airlines cancel flights en masse, and Israelis are urged to make an immediate report of any suspicious movements.

pa/ng/mj/hmw/srm
Hamas militants claimed on Thursday that around 50 Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza since Oct. 7 have been killed in Israeli strikes inside the enclave so far.

Approximately 50 people have died as a result of Israels bombing campaigns, the Al-Qassam Brigades said on Telegram.

The Daily Beast could not independently verify the claims. The Biden administration said it does not have any way to verify if that number is correct, White House National Security Council Coordinator John Kirby told reporters on Thursday.

The claim is part of a manipulative pressure campaign to stop Israeli attacks on the militant group, an Israeli official told The Daily Beast.

Hamas is trying to manipulate the world by creating a false narrative in order to stop Israel's attacks on their terror infrastructure, the official told The Daily Beast. Regardless of what Hamas claims, any harm done to hostages is Hamass responsibility and they will be held accountable. Israel will continue to demand that Hamas release all hostages immediately and unconditionally.

Inside the Risky Mission to Rescue Hostages From Hamas

The claim comes as U.S. officials have made a delicate dance of trying to defend Israel's bombing campaign inside Gaza while also trying to save hostages from Israel's own wrath and alleviate the humanitarian situation in the enclave. Efforts to secure the release of hostages, some of which are Americans, continue behind the scenes.

Hamas has already released four hostages from Gaza on two separate occasions, with hundreds of families awaiting more news.

The Biden administration has been lobbying Israel to conduct a humanitarian pause in order to allow more aid into Gaza, which is facing a dire humanitarian situation as fuel supplies run low and hospitals are well past the breaking point. Israeli officials have reportedly agreed to delay a planned ground invasion of Gaza in order to allow for aid deliveries and maintain diplomatic efforts to secure hostages release.

The Biden administration has acknowledged that Israels bombing inside Gaza is killing civilians. Officials have said that U.S. and Israeli intelligence communities are still working to determine where hostages are being held exactly, a gap in knowledge which could complicate efforts to avoid killing them.

Last Friday, the Israeli Defense Forces stated that the majority of the hostages are believed to be alive. Israel has said that Hamas is holding over 220 hostages.

Hamas is sending signals that hostages are still alive. A delegation from Hamas held meetings in Moscow on Thursday, where Russians officials pushed for the release of Russian citizens held hostage and the safe evacuation of Russian citizens from Gaza, Russias Foreign Ministry said, according to a TASS report. Senior Hamas member Abu Marzouk allegedly participated in the meeting.

Although the Biden Administration has urged caution around trusting Hamas-reported numbers of deaths civilian deaths in Gaza, it is clear that Israels continued attacks on Gaza are killing civilians caught in the crosshairs.

Israeli officials continue to claim that they are urging civilians move out of the northern region of Gaza to seek safety in the South, but Israel continues to launch strikes into South Gaza, killing civilians nonetheless.

Kirby declined to say whether Israel is being targeted or strategic enough in its operations.

They have a right and a responsibility to go after Hamas after what happened on October 7. And we have said they need to be careful about causing civilian casualties and to be targeting Hamas leaders in a way that minimizes risk to civilians and collateral damage, Kirby told reporters Thursday.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A delegation of the militant group Hamas, which governs Gaza, arrived in Moscow on Oct. 26, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said without elaborating on the visit details.

Hamas also reported on the visit via their official Telegram channel, saying that the delegation is headed by the group's senior political member, Moussa Abu Marzouk.

The delegation reportedly met with Mikhail Bogdanov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and President's Special Representative for the Middle East, discussing the Israel-Gaza ongoing war.

Hamas' representatives "praised the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the efforts of active Russian diplomacy, and stressed the need for the international community to shoulder its responsibilities towards the crime of genocide committed by the Zionist government," according to the group's message.

The fighting in Israel and the Gaza Strip broke out following Hamas' attack on Israeli settlements on Oct. 7. Tel Aviv responded by retaliatory airstrikes against Gaza and a total blockade of the enclave. Thousands of people, mostly civilians, have been killed on both sides.

Read also: Ukrainians trapped in besieged Gaza: We are constantly bombed

While Ukraine has expressed full solidarity with Israel in the wake of Hamas' attack, Putin has been critical of Israel's conduct in the conflict. His criticism of civilian causalities in the Gaza war contrasts with the violence unleashed by Moscow against Ukraine in the full-scale invasion, which has already cost thousands of military and civilian lives.

There has been considerable speculation about Russia's involvement in the Hamas attack on Israel but little concrete evidence.

Ukraine's military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov noted that Hamas' advanced drone tactics, similar to those used by Russian forces in Ukraine, indicate that Moscow may have been involved in the training of Palestinian fighters.

The intelligence agency also said that Russia has transferred Western-made weapons captured in Ukraine to Hamas in an effort to discredit Kyiv.

Read also: Is Russia involved in Hamas terrorist attacks on Israel?

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ghazi Hamad, a member of Hamas' decision-making political bureau, speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in Beirut, Lebanon, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. Hamad said that the Palestinian militant group had expected stronger intervention from Hezbollah in its war with Israel, in a rare public appeal to its allies in the region. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)

BEIRUT (AP)  A senior Hamas official told The Associated Press on Thursday that the Palestinian militant group had expected stronger intervention from Hezbollah in its war with Israel, in a rare public appeal to its allies in the region.

Ghazi Hamad, a member of Hamas' decision-making political bureau, said in an interview that we need more from allies, including Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, in light of an Israeli air campaign that Palestinian health officials say has killed more than 7,000 people, mostly civilians, in the besieged Gaza Strip.

The relentless Israeli bombardment of Gaza came in response to a brutal Oct. 7 surprise attack by Hamas that killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, many of them civilians. More than 200 people were dragged back to Gaza as hostages.

The death toll on both sides is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict and is likely to rise if Israel launches an anticipated ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas.

On the sidelines of the Israel-Hamas war, Hezbollah has engaged in regular but limited skirmishes with Israeli forces on the Lebanon-Israel border. There has been widespread speculation as to if and to what extent Hezbollah would expand its involvement in the conflict.

Hezbollah now is working against the occupation, Hamad said at the Hamas office in Beirut Thursday. We appreciate this. But  we need more in order to stop the aggression on Gaza  We expect more.

Some observers believe that Hezbollah and Iran prefer to avoid the widening of the Israel-Hamas conflict into a regional war. Israel's main backer, the United States, has warned Iran and Hezbollah not to get involved.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah met Wednesday in Beirut with senior Hamas official Saleh al-Arouri and with Ziad Nakhaleh of the allied group Islamic Jihad. It was the first such meeting to be publicly reported since the beginning of the war.

Amid speculation about the level of involvement by Iran and Hezbollah in planning the Oct. 7 attack, Hamas officials have insisted that they acted alone in deciding to launch the operation.

Hamad reiterated those statements. The decision was taken by Hamas only, and we took the responsibility (for it), he said.

He criticized what he said was hypocrisy of the international community, which has widely condemned the killing of Israeli civilians and atrocities committed in the initial Hamas attack but, in Hamad's view, had given Israel a license to kill civilians in Gaza in response.

Hamad said that Hamas, which has so far released four of more than 220 hostages after mediation by Egypt and Qatar, is very open to discussions for the release of others.

He made no apologies for the high number of civilians killed by Hamas militants in Israel or the soaring civilian death toll in Gaza.

Hamad said the past three weeks brought back the world's attention to the Palestinian cause and revealed the cracks in Israel's ironclad facade.

Israel and the West have branded Hamas, which seeks to establish Palestine as an Islamic state in place of Israel between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean, as a terrorist group.

Hamad argued that Hamas' rivals in the West Bank, led by internationally backed Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, got nothing after spending years in fruitless negotiations with Israel on establishing a Palestinian state alongside it.

That approach "got more settlements, more violations, more killing, Hamad said. So I think that it is now logical that the use of the resistance is legal against the occupation. And there is no space now to talk about peace with Israel or about a two-state solution or to talk about coexistence.

___

Associated Press staff writer Bassem Mroue contributed to this report.
During my 25-year tenure as senior rabbi at the Mosaic Law Congregation in Sacramento, I told my congregants that the hardest place to be a Jew today is on an American college campus. While Israel is confronted with responding to the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, college campuses are now the local front in this far-away conflict, and UC Davis is no exception.

Two weeks ago, Jemma Decristo, an assistant professor of American studies at UC Davis, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, a message threatening zionist journalists and their families with violence. The words she posted were hateful enough, but the emojis she included  images of drops of blood, a knife and a hatchet  are clearly an incitement to violence.

One group of (people) we have easy access to in the US is all these zionist journalists who spread propaganda and misinformation, Decristo posted on X, just three days after the massacre in Israel. They have houses (with) addresses, kids in school. They can fear their bosses, but they should fear us more.

Opinion

What is shocking is the fact that Decristo is still employed. It appears that UC Davis has a double standard of acceptable behavior when it comes to attacking Jews.

So, I wrote to UC Davis Chancellor Gary May and asked him: Will you advocate a safe environment on college campuses for your Jewish students and faculty? Will you do the right thing and terminate Decristo and send a message to the UC Davis students, faculty, alumni and citizens of our community, state of California and to the people of our nation that UC Davis will stand strong against antisemitism and the proliferation of hate-speech? Or will you and your university hide behind the First Amendment? Let me remind you that not all hate speech is shielded by the First Amendment; it may not be protected if it incites imminent lawless action, poses a true threat of serious bodily harm or causes an immediate breach of the peace. If it falls into these categories, it loses First Amendment protection.

I received a reply from UC Davis Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Mary Croughan.

I can confirm I will refer this matter to the appropriate campus departments that investigate harassment, discrimination and faculty conduct, in consultation with legal counsel regarding First Amendment rights, Croughan wrote me. UC Davis rejects all forms of violence and discrimination, as they are antithetical to the values of our university. We strive to foster a climate of equity and justice built on mutual understanding and respect for all members of the community.

Her response is typical of the obligatory acknowledgment of concern, but not of the seriousness of the crisis facing Jewish students on our college campuses. These students are feeling abandoned and marginalized.

Jewish college students across the U.S. have been subjected to antisemitism  and the incidents are only increasing. National Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) has been at the forefront of demonstrations on campuses. They often use the chant From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free in their demonstrations, which is a rallying cry used by terrorist groups, including Hamas, the organization responsible for the recent slaughter of more than 1,400 and the wounding of 3,500 men, women and children.

Hamas Charter unapologetically calls for not just the destruction of Israel, but for the annihilation of the Jewish people. SJP, meanwhile, is routinely permitted by college administrators to spew its hatred toward Jews and Israel. Is it any wonder that Jewish students are increasingly feeling attacked?

The American college campus is supposed to be a safe environment for all students, yet Jewish students are being subjected to harassment and abuse. At UC Davis, antisemitic acts, including flyers and graffiti, have appeared on campus several times over the past few years.

Our campus administrators should not be hiding behind the First Amendment and turning a blind eye to veiled or downright blatant displays of antisemitism.

Alyza D. Lewin, president of Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law, addressed college administrators refusal to protect Jewish students in a recent article in Sapir.

Most university administrators do not appreciate that Judaism is an ethno-religion, a belief system inextricably connected to cultural heritage, traditions, history and land, Lewin wrote. The connection between Jews and the Land of Israel permeates the Jewish calendar, Jewish life-cycle events, Jewish law, Jewish prayer and Jewish history.

Further, Lewin asks whether campus administrators would permit student clubs to demand that Catholics disavow the Vatican or that Muslims shed their connection to Mecca in order to be accepted.

Or would the administrators recognize that such a demand is discriminatory, biased and immoral? she writes.

I hope and pray that those entrusted with the education of our nations college students will confront these questions. Through their actions, they must ensure an environment where no student ever experiences vulnerability or fear. This protection is not only a moral right for Jewish students, but a moral obligation for all students.

Reuven H. Taff is rabbi emeritus of Mosaic Law Congregation in Sacramento.
Vice President Harris is traveling to the United Kingdom next week for a trip focused on artificial intelligence (AI), her office announced Thursday.

The goal of the trip, which comes as the White House is expected to issue a major executive order on AI, is to advance the Biden-Harris administrations global leadership on the emerging technology.

Harris and second gentleman Doug Emhoff will travel to London and Bletchley Park, which was a base for World War II codebreakers, from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2.

Harris will deliver a major speech Nov. 1 from London, her office said, on the administrations vision for the future of AI. On Nov. 2, she will represent the U.S. at the Global Summit on AI Safety at Bletchley Park.

U.S. and European countries are invited to the summit, as is China, which is an invite U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been criticized for giving out, The Associated Press reported. He said this week hes not certain whether China will attend.

The vice presidents office said she will be in the U.K. advocating for protecting human rights, civil rights, labor rights, consumer rights, and privacy; international rules and norms that reflect democratic values and interests; the inclusion of civil society in AI policymaking; and accountability for the private sector.

Harris also will make clear during her engagements in the U.K. that the administration is committed to building a future of AI where every person is safe from the harms of AI and where every person can share equally in its benefits, according to her office.

While in London, Emhoff will participate in events with civil society and young leaders focused on countering hate, promoting women in STEM and gender equality.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This aerial photo taken on Sept. 2, 2023 shows water sluice gates of the Dateng Gorge Water Conservancy project in Guiping City, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. [Photo/Xinhua]

China invested a record 860.1 billion yuan (about 120 billion U.S. dollars) in the construction of water conservancy facilities in the first nine months of 2023, an official said on Wednesday.



The country broke ground on 24,900 water conservancy projects in the January-September period, up 12.9 percent year on year. Of the total, 35 are major projects, Vice Minister of Water Resources Chen Min told a press conference.

"Water conservancy projects are playing a bigger part in job creation," Chen said. Official data shows that these projects employed 2.21 million people in the first nine months of the year, up 5.7 percent over 2022.

The ministry said it will accelerate water damage repairs at water conservancy facilities for the remainder of the year, and work to ensure that annual investment in the construction of these facilities exceeds last year's figure of 1.09 trillion yuan.
Three HBCU alumni are suing the Georgia Board of Regents for allegedly failing to equally fund the states public historically Black universities. The lawsuit cites unequal treatment at Albany State, Fort Valley State and Savannah State universities, according to The Atlanta-Journal Constitution.

It alleges that the board took resources away from HBCUs and directed them toward predominately white institutions. It also notes that Georgias three HBCUs rely on state funding more than other institutions and that there are currently no alumni serving on the board.

There should not be two systems of education in Georgia, Carlos Moore, a Mississippi attorney with the Cochran Firm, said on Tuesday. In 2023, were still fighting for something as simple as equity, justice, equality.

The plaintiffs hope the lawsuit helps future students at the three HBCUs.

It means a lot. It could help them, help them financially, help them go to a better, beautiful school than it is now, help them grow as a person, help them get a better experience in college, Martrice Herrington, who graduated from Fort Valley State earlier this year, told the news outlet. Sometimes you have to speak up for what you want.

She added that the buildings were old and the elevators frequently broke during her time as a student.

Last month, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack officially notified Georgia and 15 other states that they have underfunded HBCUs by over $12 billion in recent decades compared to non-HBCUs, reported the AJC.

Fort Valley State was cited at the time and said to be much stronger and better positioned to serve its students, your state, and the nation if made whole with respect to this funding gap.

The lawsuit comes as six students at Florida A&M filed a civil rights lawsuit for alleged discriminatory funding in 2022. They filed a suit against the state, the former chancellor of Floridas university system and the board of governors for the state university system. The students alleged that the HBCU remains separate and unequal to other schools in the state.
From hell to heaven.

That is how Naser Albarazanchi described his familys medical odyssey as they fled war-torn Iraq and emigrated to the U.S.

The hell was being told by doctors in Iraq to give up hope of saving his gravely ill son, Ahmed, whose rare genetic disorder left him so dehydrated his rib cage was clearly visible. It was watching helplessly as his other son died during the familys harrowing refugee journey through the Middle East.

Naser Albarazanchi, who came to the U.S. from Jordan after fleeing his native war-torn Iraq, visits with Dr. Nidun Daniel at The Center for Refugee Health, part of Rochester Regional Health.

The heaven? That was getting life-saving treatment for Ahmed within days of their family arriving in New York in 2020. It was the team of doctors and multi-lingual health care navigators caring for his family at The Center for Refugee Health, a primary care clinic in Rochester serving more than 1,100 refugees per year.

And, in many ways, the miraculous outcome underscored why thousands of asylum seekers and refugees risk their lives in hopes of reaching New York, Albarazanchi said last week at the clinic through a translator.

I share my story so that everybody can know, he said, wiping away tears. Spotlighting the truth, he added, is crucial to combat rumors and misinformation surrounding immigration as New York and the nation navigate myriad international crises.

Costs rise for asylum seeker care How much is NYS spending on asylum seeker care as shelter costs rise?

How asylum seekers get health care in New York

New York Mayor Eric Adams addresses a rally in support of asylum-seekers on Aug. 15, 2023. Less than a month later, Adams said 10,000 migrants were entering every month and the city was not receiving any support on the "national crisis.

Health care services for migrants arriving in New York have come under scrutiny this year, as New York City struggled to shelter and care for more than 100,000 asylum seekers. That included about 2,100 migrants bussed to hotels in counties across upstate.

State inspectors recently visited the hotels, including in Westchester, Monroe, and Orange counties, and found migrants had access to medical care and related services, such as baby safe-sleeping education and menstrual products, Office of Temporary Disability Assistance records obtained by USA TODAY Network show.

Settling asylum seekers upstate? NYC moved about 2.2K asylum seekers to upstate NY. Have those efforts stalled? What we know

Those medical services are being paid in part through New York Citys $432 million contract with for-profit company DocGo to provide various services  including health care  to asylum seekers.

Inspectors also recommended city officials improve reporting to the state of serious incidents involving migrants, such as infectious-disease cases or times when police or fire personnel are called, records show.

What is the difference between asylum seekers and refugees?

People gather for a rally in support of Ukraine on the Brighton Beach Boardwalk on March 6, 2022 in the Brighton Beach neighborhood of the Brooklyn borough in New York City. The U.N. refugee agency has called the war in Ukraine the fastest-growing refugee crisis in Europe since World War II."

At the same time, health care services are provided to thousands of refugees across the state through a variety of other nonprofit efforts and government programs, in part, because refugees have different federal status than asylees.

In other words, authorities must determine that migrants are unwilling or unable to return to their native country due to persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Refugees apply for that status before arriving in the U.S., typically waiting years before getting approval. Asylum seekers apply for it after arriving in the country.

How many refugees are in New York?

High school volunteers work with children whose families fled Afghanistan at a summer camp in Yonkers for refugees.

Over the past decade, New York has received nearly 27,000 refugees, ranking it third-highest total in the country, according to a recent Immigration Research Initiative report. Nationally, nearly 459,000 refugees arrived during that span.

But in terms of per capita, New York ranks 29th at 134 refugee arrivals per 100,000 state population. Like other lawfully present immigrants, refugees are eligible for a variety of health care services, including through Medicaid and Medicare with certain restrictions.

The majority of refugees resettled in New York, about 90%, are in upstate counties, with Monroe, Oneida, Onondaga, Erie, Albany being the top five recipients in 2022.

Refugee family found hope in New York's medical care

Doctors in Iraq, Turkey and Jordan struggled to treat Albarazanchis son, Ahmed, whose condition was ultimately diagnosed via blood tests sent to Germany.

The testing found Ahmed had Metachromatic leukodystrophy, or MLD, a genetic disorder that attacks the nervous system and can cause pain, seizures, feeding problems and other serious symptoms.

Within days of arriving in Rochester, Ahmed was transferred to Strong Memorial Hospital for 30 days of intensive treatments, tube feeding and medication. Now 13, he has stabilized at 47 pounds after gaining 22 pounds.

He is in a stable situation, and we dont have to go every two or three days to the emergency room, Albarazanchi said. All is because they put him on the correct path.

Having overcome the fear of resettling his family in Rochester suburb Irondequoit during the pandemic and finally securing the proper care for his son, Albarazanchi, 42, has turned his focus to work.

An electrical engineer by trade, he passed the written test needed to work in the industry in New York. He is currently studying for the practical exam, while working full-time in a Wal-Mart meat and produce department.

Addressing his pursuit of the American dream, Albarazanchi added: We came to the United States, and we saw ourselves  this is the top country.

How one New York community cares for refugees

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello announces 77 asylum seekers from New York City have arrived and are staying at a downtown hotel. The housing, food and support services will be paid for by NYC.

Rochester faced a refugee health care crisis in 2008, as two local primary care providers closed their doors to new refugees because of the financial burden of providing services. One provider also went bankrupt while caring for about 3,000 refugees.

At the time, New York Health Foundation awarded a nearly $173,000 grant in 2009 to Rochester General Hospital to help ensure refugees had access to primary care.

In 2014, Rochester Regional Health, the parent network of Rochester General Health, also opened the refugee clinic, which has since become a model for connecting resettled migrants with adequate health care.

We're in the refugee crisis right now around the world, and there's a high need for the work that we do here in the United States, and the work that we do here at the Center for Refugee Health, clinic physician Dr. Nidun Daniel said.

And the ongoing struggle to care for asylum seekers arriving in New York City, he added, illustrates the scope of need and complex barriers to care like Albarazanchis family receives.

I would like these same services available to everyone, Daniel said.

Where were born into  the circumstances  we dont choose, he added. Everybody should have a right for access to health care.

Chris McKenna of the USA TODAY Network contributed reporting.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Iraqi refugee family's perilous journey to Rochester for medical care
Illinois House Republicans are applauding the election of Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., as speaker of the House on Wednesday, following weeks of contentious voting and infighting in the GOP.

Johnson, who was a central figure in trying to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election, was sworn in Wednesday as the 56th House speaker, replacing Rep. Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif., who was removed from his seat by fellow Republicans.

Illinois Republican Darin LaHood, who represents Peoria in the 16th District, said he was proud to support Johnson as the next speaker.

"Mike is a family man who understands the importance of advancing conservative policies that promote individual liberty, rein in spending, and secure the border, while also conducting needed oversight of the Biden Administration," LaHood said in a statement. "Mike can unite our Conference and I look forward to working with him to deliver results for central and northwestern Illinois."

LaHood voted to certify the results of the 2020 presidential election, unlike Johnson.

More: Mike Johnson, who played a key role in trying to overturn the 2020 election, is the House speaker

Fellow Illinois Republican Mary Miller, who represents the 15th District and like Johnson is a key ally of former President Donald Trump, said she was "proud" to support Johnson.

"Speaker Mike Johnson is a thoughtful and compassionate leader with strong pro-life, pro-family values," Miller said in a news release. "I have had the privilege of marching with Speaker Johnson during the annual March For Life in Washington, and I join him weekly for a private prayer meeting with members where we pray for our country. He used his position as Republican Conference Vice Chair to lead debates on the House Floor in defense of the unborn and parental rights, and I was honored when he joined the Congressional Family Caucus to be an advocate for the nuclear family."

Mike Bost, a Republican who represents Illinois' 12th District, also supported Johnson's bid for speaker.

More: Mike Johnson makes history as Louisiana's first speaker of the House of Representatives

"I am in full agreement with President Donald J. Trump and support Mike Johnson to be the next Speaker of the House," Bost wrote on Facebook. "I will proudly cast my vote for him and look forward to getting back to work and delivering results for the people of Southern Illinois."

Bost also voted to challenge the results of the 2020 election.

All 14 Illinois Democrats supported Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York over the course of Republicans' attempt to find a replacement for McCarthy.

Illinois Democrat Eric Sorensen, a gay man who represents parts of Peoria and Rockford in the Illinois 17th District, was critical of Johnson, who in the past has supported bills considered to be anti-LGBTQ.

"The House of Representatives just elected a Speaker who doesnt believe people like us should have the right to be married," Sorensen said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Neighbors in #IL17 believe otherwise. Bigotry and hate have no place in our nations government."

Rep. Nikki Budzinski, D-Springfield, also took issue with the new speaker's LGBTQ stance and how Johnson could "undermine" Social Security and Medicare.

"Im concerned that his inexperience and extreme views will be destructive to Congress and to the country," she said in a statement.

Reporter Patrick M. Keck of The State Journal-Register contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Illinois Republicans rally behind new House speaker Mike Johnson
Two Florida residents are being credited with stopping a man accused of robbing a woman, then carjacking a different woman in a Starbucks drive-thru, police video shows.

Michael Prouty, 39, is accused of breaking into a womans home in The Villages, a retirement community south of Ocala, on Oct. 24 and stealing a purse, cellphone and car from the garage, according to a news release from the Ocala Police Department.

Later in the day, Prouty was spotted driving the car around Ocala, police said.

An officer attempted to pull Prouty over, but he took off, then crashed the vehicle into other cars at an intersection, according to the department.

That is when two good Samaritans jumped in.

I heard what sounded like a really loud crash. I looked over towards the gas station there on the corner and saw a Cadillac crashed into cars on (U.S. Highway) 441, a man told police in a Facebook video shared by the department.

The man said he saw someone get out of the crashed car and start running toward him.

Prouty took off from the traffic stop before crashing the stolen car at an intersection and running away on foot, Ocala Police said.

There was like a bank truck that was sitting in that driveway thats heading towards Starbucks from the gas station, the man said. So I went around the side of the truck where he couldnt see me, like he was coming that way.

The man said he confronted Prouty in between the truck and a wall, saying, Youre not going anywhere, and pushed him against the wall, the video shows.

You know, I slowed him down and did the best I could, the man said.

Prouty was able to push past the man and continue toward the Starbucks drive-thru lane, according to the video.

Prouty runs up to a vehicle at the window of the Starbucks and attempts to carjack the woman driving, video shows.

Then, a man sitting in the passenger seat of the vehicle behind them leaps out and runs toward Prouty, the footage shows.

A second heroic citizen got out of the car behind Prouty and chased him down until officers arrived, Ocala police said.

He opens the vehicle door opposite Prouty and jumps into the car, forcing Prouty to run to the back of the Starbucks building, video shows.

The man chases Prouty, and grabs him, pins Prouty against the wall and holdsing him there until police arrive, according to the video.

We are proud of these two citizens for their heroic action, for helping our officers make the arrest, and for keeping our community safe, Ocala Police Chief Mike Balken said in the release. We would like to let these heroic citizens know that we are currently hiring police officers, and we invite them to apply to our agency!

Prouty was taken into custody and charged with fleeing and eluding, attempted carjacking and more.

Police said Prouty was also involved in a robbery at a 7-Eleven in the early morning on Oct. 24 before the home invasion, according to the release.

Prouty previously spent six years in prison on burglary and robbery charges from 2017 before he was released as part of a community release program, then he re-offended in Miami-Dade County, police said.

Ocala is about 80 miles northwest of Orlando.

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OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  About 1,500 potential future candidates for the construction industry came to the fairgrounds Wednesday as part of the Build My Future OKC career fair to see if a career in a trade is right for them.

For a little hands on learning, they were given the chance to hammer or screw in nails, lay brick and learn about heavy machinery among numerous other things.

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We want to let high school students know that there are a wide range of not just jobs, but career opportunities available in the construction industry that they dont necessarily have to go on to a four year institution, said Executive Vice President of the Central Oklahoma Homebuilders Association Elisa Mcalister.

Student attending career fair in Oklahoma City.

Mcalister said just about every exhibit at the career fair dealt with construction in some form or fashion. Students like Ashlin, from Little Axe High School, got the opportunity to experience it.

Its good to see the varieties and the job offers and like the openness to figure out the next step on my path, said Ashlin who is already attending classes in a carpentry program.

OG&E, Dolese, Oklahoma State University-OKC and many other exhibitors were in attendance.

These careers set students up for a long term financial gain with a lot of our students starting out well above minimum wage, Terry Clinefelter said. The department head of the construction technology program at OSU-OKC.

Clinefelter started at the university 15 years ago. Wednesday he showed students their architecture construction program, high voltage linemen program and a number of others as well.

We have a number of different programs that lead directly into industry, and these careers set students up for a long term financial gain with a lot of our students starting out well above minimum wage, Clinefelter said.

LOCAL NEWS: Mayor Holt announces HOLT MY BEER 2 benefiting OKC Animal Shelter

However, theres one message both Clinefelter and others are trying to relay about construction trades that theyre hoping can hit home.

We need you, McAlister said. We have a major labor shortage in the construction career trades right now.

If I had twice as many students and twice as many graduates, they would all have jobs, Clinefelter said. Right now, the need out there, depending on the section of the industry, is huge.

For more information, visit buildmyfutureokc.com.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
As prominent entertainment figures grapple with the Israel-Hamas war and U.S. involvement, some, like Jordan Peele , face backlash.

Hundreds of actors, musicians, and public figures in entertainment have signed open letters to President Biden amid the Israel-Hamas war.

President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel in the State Dining Room of the White House on Oct. 10, 2023, in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Last week, various celebrities, including stars Quinta Brunson, Mahershala Ali, Amanda Seales, Wanda Sykes, Rosario Dawson, and more signed a letter demanding a ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, Variety reported. The letter to President Biden reads, We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honor all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay  an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages. A total of 55 artists signed the letter.

Another letter was signed earlier this week by several hundred celebrities and prominent figures in Hollywood, thanking President Biden for his leadership while asking for focus on the Israeli hostages in Gaza taken by Hamas, per The Hollywood Reporter. Figures like Chris Rock, Tyler Perry, and Tiffany Haddish signed the letter that reads, We all want the same thing: Freedom for Israelis and Palestinians to live side by side in peace. Freedom from the brutal violence spread by Hamas. And most urgently, in this moment, freedom for the hostages.

A website was launched in tandem with the latter letter, titled No Hostage Left Behind.

Many figures who signed these letters have faced backlash as the nuanced and delicate nature of the Israel-Palestine conflict continues to be examined across the country and the world. Writer-director Jordan Peele, who signed the No Hostage Left Behind letter, notably received significant feedback from his fans and followers online.

In a post that gained over 60K likes, one user called out the Get Out filmmaker, specifically highlighting how themes in his films can be seen as in direct conflict with the letter he signed. Just clocked that Jordan Peele also signed that letter, the post reads. Why am I never allowed to have nice things? And how do you make a film like Get Out and then be completely oblivious to how systematic oppression works??

While many users agreed with the sentiment, others questioned why Peele seemed to be singled out, while other prominent Black names in Hollywood, like Perry and Diddy, also signed.

As theGrio previously reported, Hamas launched an attack on Israel on Oct. 7, with 1,400 people dead and over 200 hostages taken. Since then, the Israeli government, with the full support of the United States government for Israel to defend itself, has retaliated, leading to an ever-growing number of lives lost and civilians injured in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank.

These letters come days after President Biden visited Israel and announced $100 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza and the West Bank, as reported by theGrio.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Hollywood responds to Israel-Hamas war with open letters to President Biden appeared first on TheGrio.
SEATTLE - Police are investigating after a homeless man found unconscious in Capitol Hill died from a gunshot wound earlier this month.

According to the Seattle Police Department (SPD), on Oct. 5 at around 7 p.m., officers responded to reports of an unconscious man near the corner of E Roy St. and Boylston Ave. E. When officers arrived, they found the victim lying on the wheelchair ramp of The Cornish School.

Seattle Police Department

Seattle Fire crews responded, treated the victim and took him to Harborview Medical Center for further treatment.

It was later determined that the victim had been shot.

The victim, identified as 45-year-old Matthew T. Antles, never regained consciousness and died in the hospital on Oct. 17.

Homicide detectives are now asking for the public for any information that may help them in their investigation.

Antles is unhoused and normally stays in a hammock in Cal Anderson Park.

RELATED: Seattle Police arrest suspect after quadruple stabbing in Capitol Hill

Anyone with information is asked to call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.

This is a developing story.
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WREG)  The Tennessee Highway Patrol is assisting the Memphis Police Department with an investigation of A1s Towing and Hauling as complaints against the Memphis-based company continue to grow.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security said THPs Criminal Investigations Division is providing assistance upon request as Memphis Police look into A1s activities but didnt go into specifics. MPD has not answered questions about a possible investigation of A1s Towing.

Over the last week, at least two trucking companies from out of state have filed complaints with the City of Memphis Permits Office regarding A1s towing practices.

Both companies said drivers had their vehicles towed from the same unmanned gas station on Lamar, and both had to pay thousands of dollars to get their big rigs back.

Ive been in business 23 years, and I have never seen a towing operation like this, said Fenn Church with Church Transportation. This is horrible what they are doing to the industry.

The owner of the Birmingham, Alabama company said one of his drivers parked a tractor-trailer on a lot in the 3400 block of Lamar, and it was booted while the driver was still inside the truck.

Church said A1s employees told him he would have to pay a $272 fee to have the boot removed. He said they tried to pay with a credit card, but A1s told them time was up, and they were towing the truck. Church said it cost him over $4,500 to get the 18-wheeler back.

I called A1s towing myself and talked to a guy in dispatch, and I said, Greg, there is no need to tow the truck. Just tell me what you want, and well be glad to pay your ransom. Just tell me what you want, Church said. Nope, it doesnt work like that.

Elizabeth Mullen and her husband own Mullen Transportation out of Manchester, Iowa. She said her driver couldnt find parking at the Loves Travel Stop and parked in the lot next to it. She said the driver went to the Loves store to get some food, and when he came back, A1s was in the process of hooking up his tractor-trailer.

I talked to the tow guy, and he just said we are towing the truck, thats it, said Mullen.

Mullen and Church admit their drivers didnt see the pay-to-park sign but said A1s had no right to take their vehicles and charge so much. Mullen Transportation was forced to pay $2,450 to get their truck released from A1s lot.

Its crazy, and its not affordable. That is a semester of college for my daughter, and she is only in community college. Its insane. And they wouldnt take a credit card, just cash or a wire transfer, said Mullen.

The citys booting ordinance says the maximum charge for a boot removal should not exceed $50, a vehicle thats booted cannot be towed unless the owner fails to contact the booting company within 24 hours, and a booting licensee must accept checks, cash, or credit cards.

The citys towing ordinance states if the owner or operator of a vehicle about to be towed is present and removes a vehicle before it is connected to the towing vehicle, the owner shall not be charged a fee.

I want my money back. They need to contact me and repay what they stole from me this past week, said Church.

In a statement, A1s Towing and Hauling said:

A1s Towing & Hauling operates on a strict protocol wherein we respond to service requests from individuals and companies, including our services for parking compliance. Our drivers are dispatched from our yard to perform these services professionally and within the boundaries of the law. Any attempts to depict A1s Towing & Hauling as participating in illegal towing, price gouging, or any other illicit activities are baseless and untruthful. A1s Towing & Hauling has not violated any civil ordinance with the fees charged for booting. Sec 11-70-8 applies to passenger motor vehicles, not for commercial vehicles such as 18-wheelers, big rigs, or tractor-trailers within the City of Memphis. We want to emphasize that A1s Towing & Hauling takes customer interactions seriously.

Chancery Judge wants charges dropped in big rig theft case

When WREG asked the City of Memphis if there were different rules for passenger vehicles and tractor-trailers, a spokesperson said, The booting ordinance does not specify what type of vehicle can be booted. The maximum amount a booting company can charge to remove a boot is $50.00 per the city ordinance. The ordinance states that no vehicle affixed with a boot may be towed unless the owner of the vehicle fails to contact the booting company within 24 hours of the notice. Towing fees are based on the type of wrecker being used. A Class C wrecker rate is $350.00 per hour. The ordinances state vehicles.

In September, the citys permits office said it had begun an investigation of A1s Towing and Hauling after receiving a number of complaints made against A1s over the last year, but it does not appear the city has taken any action.

City investigating A1s Towing after truck drivers file complaints

Several A1s employees, including owner Colton Cathey, were also arrested after they were accused of taking semi-trucks by force.

Last month, the Shelby County District Attorneys office said the charges that included carjacking, robbery, and aggravated assaults were dismissed because they were in General Sessions court and they could not subpoena the out-of-state victims. District Attorney Steve Mulroys office said they would continue pursuing the cases and expect them to go to criminal court.

Criminal charges dropped against A1s Towing drivers

In August, the Arkansas Towing and Recovery Board fined A1s towing and suspended its booting license after receiving complaints from nine truckers who said they had been illegally booted and towed from an unmanned truck stop in West Memphis.

A1s was also ordered to pay back one truck driver $2,800.

A1s Towing & Haulings booting license suspended in Arkansas

Fenn Church said in addition to the City of Memphis, he has contacted the Tennessee Attorney Generals Office and the Tennessee Trucking Association to report what he believes is predatory towing.

We cant stay in business. I mean, our business is tough as it is right now with the economy the way it is. Its been a down year for us altogether, and then youve got predatory predators just preying on victimless trucking companies to pad their pockets. Its unreal, said Church.

In this case, Church and Mullen had their trucks towed from the exact location to the A1s lot on Mallory but were charged very different amounts. Mullen Transportation said it wont be doing business in Memphis.

S-Line Parking, A1s Towing booted from Fayette County truck stop

We are going to tell our fellow brethren dont refuel in Memphis, Tennessee. Let them go broke. Dont fuel there. Dont give them any business. Dont do it. Its not ok, she said.

We asked the permits office for an update on their investigation but are still waiting for a response.

If you believe you have been booted, ticketed, or towed improperly, you can contact the City of Memphis Permits Office at 901-636-6711.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
We no longer ask How are you? Within a matter of days, those three little words of courtesy have gone from an empty greeting to a rude, un-answerable question. How the hell can anyone be? Being fine now in Israel means that the people you know that were murdered are not the ones sharing your dinner table. Youre fine if your friend from high school was murdered, you havent really been in touch those past few years; youre fine if a relatives neighbor was shot while hugging his grandchildren; youre fine if your former student is missing, your classmates uncle kidnapped to Gaza.

My husbands co-worker, an American ex-pat in her sixties, was murdered last Saturday. We watched her ordeal as it slowly unfolded. She locked herself in her residential safe room, reporting on WhatsApp, calling for help for hours and hours: There are terrorists all around us, they are shooting us all, they have entered our house, we are holding the door shut. Please. Can someone help?

Later that afternoon, she sent her last message: They managed to break into the safe room, she wrote. The messages sent to her later were never read. For five days we hoped that shed been kidnapped to Gaza. This is the world we now live in: people hope that their loved ones are held hostage by Hamas.

On Thursday we learned that she wasnt. I asked my husband: Did she have any grandchildren? I didnt know what else to ask. I didnt know which answer would make me sadder. She retired about a year ago, but they did work together for over fifteen years. Are they considered close? How sorrow-stricken is he allowed to be, when people have lost their entire families? How are you, my husband?

This is not the worst story. I feel guilty for that, too. The news tells of a nine-year-old boy who hid in the closet for fourteen hours with no food or water, holding his six-year-old sisters hand, keeping her silent, while Hamas walked around their apartment. They didnt know that both their parents were no longer alive and their sister kidnapped. If they had, would that have made them more or less resilient? How have all the answers become wrong?

When the soldiers finally came to rescue them, the children didnt open the door. They were afraid the terrorists were posing as Israeli soldiers, as theyd done all day, luring families out of their safe rooms with false promises and then killing them all. In some cases, they used an Israeli hostage, sometimes a teenager, a neighbor that the families knew and trusted: he promised in Hebrew  at gunpoint  that it was safe to come out, only to later be murdered himself. The nine-year-old boy was wise to not open.

Finally, they called the childrens uncle. Its me, he said, its Amit. The boy unlocked the door, blinking into a new kind of darkness, the one that has covered the land since October 7th, indifferent to sunlight and sunrise.

OVER 1,300 MURDERED, AROUND 4,500 injured, 224 kidnapped. As writers, we are taught to believe that good literature, the kind that maps the human soul and sheds light on its most intimate corners, is always relevant. And yet it seems reality has finally defeated art, and this is not a victory one wants to witness.

The newspapers weekend books sections are desperate for materials: all the articles they prepared for the next issue suddenly seem irrelevant. Their emails ask: Does anyone have a short story that somehow has to do with the situation? A poem, maybe? About war, about death, about despair, about hell?

I dont. I wonder if I ever will. I picture myself sitting down in my study, re-opening that prehistoric file I was working on on October 6th, BC, writing into the unknown. We are used to perceiving writing as a form of pain, deriving from the past. I now realize that it requires hope, demands a future.

Meanwhile, I hand out free copies of my books, offer free lectures. Its all made of second-hand, used words. Who the fuck needs a lecture now? I wonder. Im glad to see you all here, I begin, and immediately correct myself: Well, not glad, of course. I feel like an idiot; the listeners stare at me with blank Zoom eyes. At night, I write a single sentence, over and over again: Sorry for your loss.

WHEN WE WAKE UP, if we ever do  what kind of an Israel will we wake up to? Will it be the one led by its citizens, the people who, for the past two and a half weeks, have stepped in where their government failed with thousands of initiatives to help refugees from the war-torn southern region of Israel, providing everything from housing to diapers, free therapy to home-cooked meals? Or will it be the one led by Benjamin Netanyahu?

I watch him on the news. I wonder how he sleeps at night. We all do. He deserves to never sleep another night, and that still wont begin to compensate for the loss of a single child. This is the man who has entrusted our lives in the hands of incompetent, messianic opportunists, all for the sake of his political survival. This is the man who was willing to sacrifice Israels democracy on the altar of his upcoming trial, while ignoring all professional warnings that his judicial coup was weakening Israels army, economy and civil society by the day. This is the man who has consistently propped up extremists  the most violent Jewish settlers in the occupied territories, the parties representing ultra-Orthodox Israelis who neither work nor serve in the army, the racists and the inciters  at the expense of the sane, liberal, hard-working, tax-paying citizens whose childrens blood is now flooding the streets.

We now have a war on our hands  a war against a murderous, inhumane organization that has ruthlessly tortured and massacred our sons and daughters. But if there is ever to be a new, better Israel, bringing Benjamin Netanyahu to justice must be the corner stone it is built upon.

MEANWHILE, THE FATES OF OVER 200 kidnapped children, women and men still depend on Netanyahus judgment. His judgment and Hamas goodwill. As I write these words, I feel like crying. I join the parents of the kidnapped children as they weep on TV. My iPhone reports laconically: Your screen time was up 77% last week, for an average of 11 hours, 25 minutes a day.

I read that one of the young women abducted to the Gaza Strip has Crohns disease. She needs biological treatment and special care, otherwise she faces unbearable pain, possibly death. But they all have something, dont they? We all do. We all need special care.

My hairdressers mom, an 85-year-old, is there in the Gaza Strip, without her medication. And men. There are men there, too. Young, old. And theyre all facing their end, whether sick or healthy.

Death is irreversible, but those people are still alive. They should be brought home, all of them, now, at any cost, before it is too late. Before their lost lives are added to that bottomless ocean of sorrow.

Noa Yedlin is a best selling and award-winning Israeli author. Her novel Stockholm will be published in the US 11/14 by HarperVia.

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Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is a hardcore Christian nationalist who has a history of spouting extreme right-wing views  including on mass shootings. The Louisiana Republicans record on guns has come under scrutiny in the wake of a shooter killing at least 18 people in Maine on Wednesday, and in addition to opposing gun control legislation, the man who is now second in line for the presidency has blamed mass shootings on both teaching evolution and abortion.

During a 2016 sermon at the Christian Center in Shreveport, Louisiana, Johnson said that a series of cultural shifts in the United States  led by elites and academics in the 1930s who were engaging with the theories of Charles Darwin  erased the influence of Christian thinking and creationism from society.

People say, How can a young person go into their schoolhouse and open fire on their classmates? Johnson asked the audience. Because weve taught a whole generation  a couple generations now  of Americans, that theres no right or wrong, that its about survival of the fittest, and [that] you evolve from the primordial slime. Why is that life of any sacred value? Because theres nobody sacred to whom its owed. None of this should surprise us.

Johnson blaming school shootings on teaching evolution was first identified by Meidas Touch.

Earlier in the sermon, Johnson had discussed the necessity of a creationist view of life. If [the theory of evolution] is true, there really probably isnt a God anyway, right? There really isnt a creator, Johnson said. So remember when the founders said Gods up here and hes transcendent and all men are down here. Well [the academics] just erased God from the equation entirely. He said that when there is no creator, then that means that man gets to make all the decisions, and that the the infiltration of this philosophy into government and schools had begun to teach a generation of Americans that there really isnt any God, and there really isnt any right and wrong.

Johnson has used a similar argument to blame school shootings on abortion.

In 2015, Johnson, then a lawyer in Louisiana fighting for increased abortion restrictions, told Irin Carmon of New York magazine that many women use abortion as a form of birth control, you know, in certain segments of society, and its just shocking and sad, but this is where we are. When you break up the nuclear family, when you tell a generation of people that life has no value, no meaning, that its expendable, then you do wind up with school shooters.

Johnsons religious fundamentalism has been a hallmark of his life and career. Hes advocated for the return of prayer in public schools, derided the so-called separation of church and state on the House floor, and argued that the nations founders did not establish the separation to prevent religion from influencing government, but rather to impede the government from restricting the influence and free exercise of religion.

The new House Speaker is also a diehard Trump supporter who worked to overturn the 2020 election, and so it shouldnt come as a huge surprise that he doesnt view the United States as a democracy. As Johnson once said, We dont live in a democracy, because a democracy is two wolves and a lamb deciding whats for dinner. Its not just majority rule, its a constitutional republic, and the founders set that up because they followed the biblical definition of what a civil society is supposed to look like.

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China has achieved full coverage in its educational assistance for students from families struggling with economic hardship throughout all educational stages and in all public and private schools, a Ministry of Education (MOE) official said on Wednesday.

Preliminary statistics showed that in 2022, China's educational assistance fund nationwide totaled 292.27 billion yuan (about 40.71 billion U.S. dollars), benefiting 161 million students, MOE official Ma Jiabin said at a press conference.

To ensure access to compulsory education for all school-age students, China has launched targeted campaigns to reduce the number of dropouts and has ramped up its relief efforts. More children with disabilities have been included in the country's support system for special education, with increased per-capita public expenditure for special education students, said Ma.

Ma also said the country will make further efforts to ensure equal educational opportunities for eligible rural students in urban areas and make educational aid more precise.
MILWAUKEE - The U.S. House of Representatives elected a new speaker, ending three weeks of disagreement Wednesday, Oct. 25.

Louisiana Republican Mike Johnson is a constitutional attorney who has worked with some Wisconsin lawmakers. FOX6 News reached out to the state's congressional delegation following Johnson's election, and was able to speak with four of six Republicans and one of two Democrats.

"I kind of liken it to if you want to do a home renovation project, first you gotta tear some things down and you gotta tear things out," U.S. Rep. Tom Tiffany (R-Wisconsin). "That's kind of what happened."

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

"I think Speaker Johnson can kind of bring those factions together that have kind of divided the conference the last three weeks," said U.S. Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wisconsin).

"Hes a super hard worker. Everybody likes him personally, which is why he had every Republican vote for him on the floor," U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Wisconsin) said of Johnson. "Its more important we get it right than we get it done quickly."

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks in the House chamber after his election at the U.S. Capitol on Oct. 25. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The past three weeks were filled with failed votes for a new speaker, putting the U.S. House at a standstill since the removal of Kevin McCarthy from the post.

"I just think that really is demonstrative of the disarray, the chaos, the civil war they have going on with their party," said U.S. Rep Gwen Moore (D-Wisconsin).

"Its been a long few weeks. Democracy is messy sometimes," said U.S. Rep. Bryan Steil (R-Wisconsin). "Thats after three weeks of not making progress on border security, on addressing reckless spending, on standing with Israel. We have a true opportunity here to turn the corner."

Wisconsin's Republican representatives said Speaker Johnson will help get things moving again.

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"Mike Johnsons a person with integrity, strong conservative principles that I think truly gives us an opportunity to address the challenges were facing," Steil said.

"To be very honest, there was some score-settling that was going on over the past couple weeks, and I think we just needed to get to someone who could unify the conference," said Tiffany.

The choice still divides the House down party lines; some Democrats called Johnson "extreme."

"He really took an active part in putting together a court battle to dismantle the 2020 election," Moore said. "I think its important for people to know he wants a nationwide ban on abortion."

Still, both sides said theyre looking forward to getting back to business.

"We have a growing trouble in the Middle East, we have the war in Ukraine, we have a government to run, and we need to make sure that we get a budget together by Nov. 17," said Moore.

"As we speak right now, were voting on the Israeli resolution, so were going to work immediately," Tiffany said Wednesday afternoon.

Johnson got support from former President Donald Trump, who said Wednesday he thinks Johnson will be a fantastic speaker.

Statement from U.S. Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wisconsin):

"Congratulations to Speaker Johnson on becoming the 56th Speaker of the House. From countering Chinese Communist Party aggression to supporting Israel to passing basic appropriations to passing the National Defense Authorization Act, the House has its work cut out for it. Its time to unify, deliver on the promises we made to the American people, and finally get back to work."
HOUSTON - The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) is leading a rally at the North Shepherd Post Office on Thursday evening.

NALC aims to raise awareness of the growing trend of assaults and robberies targeting letter carriers in the Houston area.

The gathering, titled "Enough is Enough," also seeks to demand an immediate halt to the incidents as their members deliver mail to the residents and businesses.

SUGGESTED: Harris County Crime: Mail thieves suspects caught in act

Once considered rare, these crimes are now growing in both frequency and severity, not just in Houston but also across Texas and the nation, according to the NALC.

They tell FOX 26 that at least 25 robberies targeting carriers have occurred in the Houston area in the last year - compared to previous incidents that would happen years apart from each other. This results in stolen mail and harm to the local community. Over 2000 similar incidents have been reported across the U.S. - an increase from 700 incidents reported in 2022. Leaders say only 14 percent of those crimes result in arrests or prosecutions.

Houston letter carrier Ulysses Wells tells Fox 26 about the moment he was robbed while delivering his mail in 2022.

"That's just since January," said NALC National Business Agent Shawn Boyd. "Those numbers are numbers we haven't seen before, and we've been carrying mail for over 100 years."

The group is demanding the USPS to take decisive action to protect its employees, not only in Houston but across the entire nation. They are also asking prosecutors to prosecute these crimes against federal workers to the fullest extent of the law.

DOWNLOAD THE FOX 26 HOUSTON APP BY CLICKING HERE

"These assaults inflict fear, trauma, and physical injuries upon letter carriers," said an NALC spokesperson. "Furthermore, they detrimentally affect the communities they serve. Letter carriers, who often traverse the same routes for years, establish rapport with their customers and are attuned to irregularities. They frequently serve as the first point of contact in emergencies, alerting authorities to elderly residents' health crises, helping locate missing children, and even extinguishing small fires before they escalate."

Houston carrier Ulysses Wells spoke to FOX 26 about his scary experience while delivering mail on his regular North Houston route in 2022. Wells says while putting mail in boxes in the Sable Ridge subdivision, three men got out of a car, attacked him, and demanded his postal key and personal belongings.

"This is terrible, this is scary, this is frightening," says Wells. "We need protection. And we need protection now. When I'm at work, Im just nervous. Im just praying for the safety of my coworkers. I try to look out for them. They try to look out for me."

On Thursday, the USPS provided an update on their Project Safe Delivery Campaign - an effort to crack down on postal crimes and attacks on employees. Their increasing monetary rewards for information that may lead to arrests or convictions of people who commit the crimes.

"We have effectively focused our efforts with USPS on hardening both physical and digital targets to combat threats to postal employees and secure the mail. We continue to turn up the pressure and put potential perpetrators on notice; If you attack Postal employees, steal the mail, or commit other postal crimes, Postal Inspectors will bring you to justice," said Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. "We ask that the public assist us with our mission. Our rewards for information have increased substantially, highlighting the importance of the safety and security of our employees and the mail. If you see something, say something, and help us bring to justice those that cause harm to postal employees, steal mail, or commit other postal crimes."
Traeger, Kamado Joe and Weber are some of the biggest names in smart grilling. These companies have built numerous products that allow you to control and monitor their grills, usually pellet-burning setups, from the comfort of your living room or while you run an errand. Based right outside of Augusta, Georgia, Recteq is another company thats doing the same. If you arent familiar with its products, now is a great time for an introduction as its new lineup has two novel takes on the pellet grill that offer something those larger competitors dont.

Flat-top griddles are all the rage in backyard grilling right now. The popularity of smash burgers and the ability to cook everything from breakfast to fajitas and fried rice make them a versatile piece of any grill setup. Until now, most of them have been gas-powered and some companies offer griddle inserts for equipping a charcoal, gas or pellet grill you might already have with a large, flat cooking surface. Recteq has taken a different approach, opting instead to stick to its pellet grill roots with what it says is the first wood-fired griddle.

We've had our eye on griddles for a while, Recteqs VP of product development Ben Lesshafft explained to Engadget. We didn't want to just go with a gas grill, we're not a gas grill company. We believe in wood fired food and we believe in wood-fired flavor. Lesshafft said the company knew there had to be a way to do something different by introducing the smoke flavor from pellets into a category where nearly all of the grills work the same way.

Recteq SmokeStone 600 (Recteq)

To design this wood-fired grill, which Recteq calls the SmokeStone 600 ($999), the company drew on its experience building the direct-fire Bullseye grill. That model looks like a mashup of a pellet grill and a charcoal kettle, allowing you to do both high-heat cooking and low-and-slow smoking, but it was designed primarily for the former with temps topping out at nearly 750 degrees Fahrenheit. Another challenge was making sure a pellet-powered griddle offered even heat distribution.

That took us quite a bit of time, Lesshafft noted. I spent more time with thermometers in a couple months than I did in my entire life previously combined.

Of course, there has to be a method for getting the pellet smoke to roll over the grilling surface in order to impart that wood flavor. To achieve this, Recteq designed a 360-degree vent system around the griddle. The SmokeStone has a blower fan like any other pellet grill that regulates the temperature and intensity of the fire, but it also pushes smoke into the upper cooking chamber. The company includes a raised lip on the griddle surface to help corral any small bits of food, but it also made sure those smoke vents were tall enough to clear it. This design means smoke rolls over your food whether the lid is open or closed.

The smoke kind of ends up coming across the surface of the grill, because it's forced out at such a velocity that it has to shoot out before it finally relaxes, he said. What we discovered is, the beauty of it, you [can] cook with the lid up or down. You're going get some smoke no matter what, because you're always burning wood.

And on top of imparting some wood-fired flavor into griddled foods that ordinarily wouldnt get it, the SmokeStone is still a smart grill. Theres Wi-Fi onboard for controlling and monitoring grill and food temperatures from your phone, plus an algorithm to make sure the controller keeps things consistent and even throughout your cook. A temperature range of 300-600 degrees also gives you some room to adjust based on what youre cooking.

Recteq DualFire 1000 (Recteq)

A pellet-burning griddle isnt the only unique entry in Recteqs new lineup, though. The company also debuted a dual-chamber pellet grill that allows you to cook at two different temperatures at the same time. With the DualFire 1200 ($1,799), Recteq sought to improve another popular grill configuration. If youve taken a stroll down the grill aisle at your local hardware store in the last decade or so, chances are youve seen grills that offer one side for charcoal and another for gas. Maybe youve come across one more recently thats pellet and gas. While Recteq understood the utility of the two sections, Lesshafft and his colleagues decided making both pellet burning offered something that didnt yet exist.

We did not invent the dual-chamber grill, they've been out forever, he said. One of the reasons these dual chamber grills sell is people love the fact that you can go low-and-slow on one side and hot-and-fast on the other. And so that was kind of the evolution of our philosophy.

Lesshafft further explained that he never understood the 50-50 split of the barrel of dual-chamber cookers, so Recteq opted instead for a 65-35 division. He said this allows for larger cuts like brisket on the bigger, more traditional pellet grill side while the smaller chamber is designed for direct-fire searing. You can do low-and-slow on both sides, but the left side is closer to the heat source and lacks the convection of a typical pellet grill.

Recteq also refreshed its main pellet grills, giving them an updated leg design, better wheels and an improved controller. The company also changed the shape of the RT-590, now called the Deck Boss 590, to be consistent with the rest of its lineup. Previously, it had an octagon-shaped barrel, but now its round like the others. Recteq also saw an opportunity to give customers a mid-range option between the Deck Boss and its largest new grill, the Flagship 1100 (replacing the RT-700). Thats where the Backyard Beast 1000 comes in.

Recteq DeckBoss 590 (Recteq)

The intentional difference between grills is really a matter of size, said Lesshafft. You have more capacity, you have more headroom, and it gets rid of the buyer confusion of also changing shapes. The numbers correspond to square inches of grillings space, where the Backyard Beast doesnt have a second shelf inside the cooking chamber. It also doesnt have quite as much pellet hopper capacity as the Flagship. A third option also allows the company to bridge the gap price-wise between its most affordable new grill and its largest traditional pellet model. The Deck Boss is $899, the Backyard Beast is $1,099 and the Flagship is $1,299. Of course, ditching the old alphanumeric product names eliminates customer confusion, and Lesshafft admitted there was even some trouble with the names amongst employees (please take note, Sony).

All five of the new grills are equipped with the updated controller, though it functions differently on models like the SmokeStone and DualFire due to their direct-heat setups. And, of course, the DualFire needs special firmware in order to run two grills. A new display is both easier to use and easier to read thanks to better knob and larger letters and numbers. Recteq also ditched the large, external antenna for an internal one that offers similar Wi-Fi range without the gaudy appearance. Lesshafft explained that nothing was off the table in terms of the redesigned controls. However, the company really wanted to focus more on the app rather than putting a touchscreen on its grills like Traeger did.

If people are going to [swipe through recipes], they're probably going to do it on their phone or their tablet, he noted. We kept the physical interface similar, we just wanted to improve it, but we didn't really want to give it a full-blown facelift.

Another key element of the new controller is dual-band connectivity. Recteq introduced this on its grills over the last couple of years, and as someone who has struggled to connect a 2.4G grill in a mostly 5G world, this makes the setup process much easier. Lesshafft also quipped that this reduced W-Fi-related calls to customer service. And overall, the company has been continually trying to improve the quality of its app. It is, of course, the place where you monitor temperatures and control the grill, but its also where you can browse recipes, make notes and revisit temperature graphs. In other words, it needs to be reliable and deliver whats promised. Lesshafft admitted that wasnt always the case.

There was a day when our ratings weren't very good on iOS, and now we're the highest rated growing app, he said. The app has come a long way. We're pretty proud of it.
Students at two schools devastated by record flooding in Eastern Kentucky will benefit from a donation of 10,000 books.

Actress Jennifer Garner , who works with Save the Children, made the announcement Thursday with kids from Robinson Elementary and Buckhorn School during an appearance on NBCs Today morning show.

Garner said Scholastic, which says it is the worlds largest publisher and distributor of childrens books, made the donation.

Garner unveiled tables stacked with 500 books during a live segment Thursday and said Scholastic had pledged to donate 5,000 additional books each to Robinson and Buckhorn when they have libraries to hold them, presenting a plaque to librarian Antoinett Vermillion.

Thats such a huge commitment, said Jamie Fugate, principal at Robinson. I was really shocked, excited and blown away.

Robinson Elementary had to be torn down because of damage that happened during flooding on July 27, 2022, and Buckhorn was badly damaged.

The road and parking lot for the Buckhorn School sit extremely damaged after flooding swept through Buckhorn in Perry County, Ky., Friday, July 29, 2022.

Both schools were in Perry County.

This academic year, both schools are in the old A.B. Combs Elementary building, which had been empty for several years before the flood. Robinson has about 240 students in grades kindergarten through 8, while Buckhorn is a K-12 school with more than 300 students.

Officials are looking for a site to build a new Robinson Elementary, Fugate said.

The walls at Buckhorn survived the flood but there was extensive water damage. Work on a $15 million restoration of the school is underway, Fugate said.

The Today show taped a segment on the loss of libraries at the schools to air before the live segment on the donation, in which Garner lauded the resiliency of the kids in recovering from the flood and the efforts of educators and administrators to help them.

She also talked about the value of libraries to education and imagination.

Childrens libraries are some of the most important places in the country, she said.
Action News Jax Investigates is digging into what is leading to hundreds of thousands of unsolved hit-and-run crashes in Florida.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

It doesnt feel any different than a murder, Bridget Massie told Action News Jax Ben Becker. She is still mourning the death of her son, Michael England.

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He was an outgoing loving person. He loved life to the fullest, said Massie who lost England in a hit-and-run accident. It happened when he was walking along Pitts and Slay Roads in Northwest Jacksonville.

Action News Jax first reported about Englands death in 2013. Ten years have passed, and the driver is still out there.

A car is a weapon also, like a gun is a weapon, said Massie who is not alone in her grief.

Action News Jax has reported over the years about dozens of local families who have been victimized by hit-and-run drivers.

Read: Literally couldve killed my kids: Close call in Duval County hit-and-run

Since 2018 according to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles, there have been nearly 600,000 hit-and-runs involving people and/or property across the state including more than 125,000 injuries and 1,400 deaths.

But despite the numbers, very few people are ever arrested or convicted.

Its an incredible number, said Action News Jax law and safety expert, Dale Carson. Its difficult to prosecute it because you have to have a motive.

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement says since 2018, just 85 people have been found guilty of a first-degree felony hit-and-run across the state while in Duval County the State Attorneys office says it has convicted 12 people.

You only have so many investigators to investigate these matters, said Carson. So, whats more important, a murder or a hit-and-run death? wondered Carson.

Read: FHP: Hit-and-run crash on I-95 sparks investigation, driver flees scene

According to AAA, penalties for a hit-and-run vary greatly across the country  from jail time to just community service.

A fatal hit and run conviction in Florida could result in up to 30 years behind bars, which is the stiffest penalty in the nation, but it rarely happens.

Becker emailed the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office about Michael Englands death. Currently detectives have no additional investigative leads, said JSO in a statement.

What have police told you? Becker asked Massie. I havent heard from my detective in 8-9 years, said Massie.

Becker then emailed JSO follow up questions:

Becker: Is anyone from your crash reconstruction unit available for an interview?

Read: Jacksonville mom seeks justice after Lyft driver allegedly hits 1-year-old daughter in hit-and-run

JSO: JSO does not have such a unit. The Traffic Homicide Unit investigates crashes involving death or great bodily harm  as the in the case you initially asked about. There is no one available to interview at this time.

Becker: Did JSO submit car paint samples to the FBI for a paint data query (PDQ) for automotive paint sourcing and what were the results? And if not the FBI, who analyzed paint samples and what were the results?

JSO: Evidence from scenes of a traffic homicide investigation are not sent by our agency to the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Any evidence requiring testing typically would be sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. In what I have been able to see within my capability, no car paint samples were submitted for analysis.

Becker: Why were paint samples not submitted to FDLE for analysis?

JSO: Unfortunately, there were no paint samples collected to submit.

Becker: Is JSO aware of the FBI paint database and why isnt it utilized in addition to FDLE? Is there a rule that prohibits it?

JSO: There is no rule that prohibits the use of the FBI. However, if necessary, detectives will use other and/or additional resources outside of the FDLE.

Becker: Who is allowed to collect physical evidence at a JSO crime scene?

JSO: All sworn personnel are trained and have the capability to collect evidence. However, the Crime Scene Unit will respond to certain crime scenes meeting the criteria.

Becker: How many JSO evidence technicians are available daily?

Read: Man dead after overnight hit-and-run on I-95, FHP says

JSO: Manpower varies daily and can depend for a multitude of reasons.

Becker: Why werent paint samples collected to help determine make, model and year of the vehicle? Is that not standard operating procedure in a fatal hit and run or any hit and run?

JSO: No response.

This leaves the State Attorneys Office in a difficult position to prosecute these types of cases. A spokesperson sent this statement which reads in part: Vehicular crashes involving death are tragic  these investigations are unique from all other cases we handle and often take time to investigate and solve.

Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, recently introduced a bill that could help track hit-and-run drivers and put them behind bars.

Its Senate Bill 194 , also known as the Lilly Glaubach Act, named after a 13-year-old victim of a deadly hit-and-run crash in Sarasota County in August 2022.

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It would require auto repair shops to request crash reports or file a form with law enforcement before repairing damaged vehicles. The form would include information on the customer, the vehicle, and a description of the damage. The bill must make it through committee before it could possibly be voted on early next year.

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Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto visited the Belarusian capital, Minsk, on Oct. 26 to take part in the Eurasian Security: Reality and Prospects in a Transforming World conference, Belarusian state-run news agency BelTA said.

It was Szijjarto's second visit to Belarus in 2023.

He has also visited Russia five times since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, most recently on Oct. 12.

According to comments reported by BelTA, Szijjarto spoke at the conference, expressing his gratitude for having been invited. He also met with his Belarusian counterpart, Sergei Aleinik.

Szijjarto said he gladly accepted the invitation despite the fact that he "risk(s) being seriously criticized for the decision in some parts of Europe."

Unfortunately, it would not be an exaggeration to say that global security is now in the most terrible shape since the end of the Cold War, he added.

Hungary has maintained ties with Russia even after the beginning of the full-scale invasion and has repeatedly stalled sanctions against Russia and aid for Ukraine.

It has also delayed the ratification of new members Finland and Sweden into NATO. Hungary finally ratified Finland's accession to the alliance nine months after the original application.

Even after the other remaining holdout, Turkey, agreed to move forward with Sweden's accession on Oct. 23, Szijjarto said, "This changes nothing on our side."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban previously said in September that Hungary was in no rush to ratify Sweden's membership.

Read also: Exclusive: New insights point to Hungarys collaboration with Moscow on transfer of Ukrainian POWs

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Peter Szijjarto, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary, arrived in Minsk on the morning of 26 October.

Source: European Pravda, citing Szijjarto on Facebook

Szijjarto posted a photo from the plane on his Facebook, saying: "Two degrees below zero, fog, snowdrifts, this is Minsk."

He also said that "we want peace, and for this we need to maintain communication channels", posting a photo from a meeting with Sergei Aleinik, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belarus.

Belarusian state-owned news agency BelTA reported that Szijjarto will participate in the high-level international Eurasian Security: Reality and Prospects in a Transforming World conference, which will be held in Minsk on 26-27 October.

Szijjarto is one of the speakers at the conference, BelTA writes. The organisers expect that more than 300 participants from more than 30 countries will arrive in the Belarusian capital. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be among them.

Background:

Szijjarto visited Belarus in February this year. At the end of the visit, he said that Hungary and Belarus agreed to develop economic cooperation, and also called for "peace as soon as possible".

In April, Aleinik arrived in Hungary to take part in a meeting of the intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation.

Belarus has been supporting Russia since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, no European high-ranking official, except the Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer (in April 2022) has visited Moscow or Minsk.

Szijjarto became one of the few ministers who did not attend the meeting of the heads of foreign affairs of the European Union which took place in Kyiv on 2 October  outside the EU for the first time in history.

Recently, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, raising expectations in the EU that Hungary will become increasingly isolated in the European Union.

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Flanked by Lt. Col. Dan Pickett of the Maryland State Police and Capt. Tom Langston of the Hagerstown Police Department, Washington County Sheriff Brian K. Albert speaks to journalists Thursday after the body of fugitive Pedro M. Argote was discovered near Williamsport.

A weeklong manhunt came to an end Thursday morning when a team of law enforcement agencies doing a systematic search near Williamsport found the body of fugitive Pedro Manuel Argote, wanted for the murder of a local judge.

Argote was wanted for the killing of Washington County Circuit Judge Andrew F. Wilkinson, who was found shot in his driveway north of Hagerstown the night of Oct. 19 and died later at Meritus Medical Center.

County Sheriff Brian Albert previously confirmed authorities believe Wilkinson was targeted by Argote because Wilkinson ruled earlier that same day in a divorce hearing involving Arogte that the mother should have custody of their minor children.

Albert would not say Thursday what appeared to be the cause or death or time of death for Argote. He said the state medical examiner's office was expected to do an autopsy Friday morning.

Washington County sheriff: Community can 'breathe a little easier'

When did the Washington County Sheriff's Office announce the search for Argote was over?

The sheriff's office announced on Facebook shortly after 12:30 p.m. Thursday that Argote's body had been found in a "heavily wooded area between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road."

"The Washington County community can breathe a little easier this afternoon," Albert said near the start of a news conference Thursday afternoon at the Washington County Administrative Building.

Albert, in an interview, said Argote's body was found on private property, used for hunting, in an area near and east of the Pinesburg softball complex. The terrain was heavily wooded and steep. The area has an old quarry and shale pit.

That area is northwest of Williamsport. It also is a mile northwest of where Argote's Mercedes SUV was found Saturday morning in a wooded area off Bottom Road.

About 80 people from Maryland State Police, Natural Resources Police and the Maryland Transportation Authority Police  including a state evidence collection team  did a slow, methodical search Thursday morning, finding Argote's body, Albert said in an interview after the news conference.

Asked if there was a note when Argote was found, Albert said not that he knew of.

What did the first search of the tannery area yield?

The sheriff's office previously announced that a search of the old tannery and Cushwa Brick properties had wrapped up early Sunday afternoon.

Albert said Thursday that searching the area had continued and happened in some capacity each day, including using cadaver dogs. Though those dogs were used in the lower area by the Potomac River and not where Argote's body was later found.

Asked which day the cadaver dogs were out there, Albert told The Herald-Mail he could not immediately pinpoint the day, noting the days were bleeding into each other with the ongoing search since Wilkinson's murder almost a full week ago.

There are times in a search like this one that officials slow down, digest the information they have, and take a "30,000-foot view" before deciding that maybe there is an area that needs a more thorough search, Albert said.

When asked if authorities had been proceeding with the search assuming Argote was alive, Albert said, "We had to think that."

Discovery a relief, 'but it's still a tragedy'

The announcement of Argote's body being found came about 2 1/2 hours before Wilkinson's family started receiving friends at a local funeral home, with Wilkinson's funeral to be Friday morning.

"Its relief, but it's still a tragedy that were dealing with," Albert said about the murder suspect being found.

"Most of us, up here, we just came from Judge Wilkinson's viewing, met with family. They were very appreciative. It brings a little bit of closure to them, but its still a tragedy. They lost a husband, father and brother," Albert said at the news conference.

The court system of Maryland made the following statement in response to the news that the body of the suspect in the murder of a Washington County judge had been found:

"The Maryland Judiciary appreciates the combined efforts of the local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies who have been working tirelessly to protect Judiciary personnel and to bring a conclusion to the search for the suspect in the shooting of Judge Andrew Wilkinson.

"We continue to grieve the loss of our colleague and friend while supporting the Wilkinson family, the judges and staff of the Circuit Court for Washington County, and the entire Hagerstown and broader Washington County community.

"Out of respect to the Wilkinson family, please continue to accommodate their request for privacy during these difficult times."

Albert said Argote's family also had been notified he had been found.

Washington County sheriff offers thanks for assistance

Albert expressed gratitude for sheriff's department personnel, some of whom had not had a good night's sleep since the murder, as well as for several agencies that assisted with the investigation and manhunt.

He thanked state police, Natural Resources Police, Maryland Transportation Authority Police, Hagerstown Police, Frederick Police, the Frederick County Sheriff's Office, the Western Maryland Regional Crime Lab, LexisNexis, Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit and the U.S. Marshals' regional task force.

"Thank you to the Washington County community for your support through this tough time  and we continue to keep the family of Judge Wilkinson in our thoughts," Albert said.

Argote's divorce case was only one heard by Wilkinson on the day he was shot

While Albert confirmed a week ago that Argote was the suspect in Wilkinson's murder, he hasn't yet shared specifics about what led them to that conclusion.

Argote was not at the Oct. 19 hearing in circuit court in downtown Hagerstown, Albert has said.

That hearing was the only matter listed for Wilkinson on the court docket that day.

Wilkinson signed an order Oct. 19 saying there was to be no visitation or contact between Pedro Argote and his children, according to the partial judgment in the divorce case. There also was to be no contact between Argote and the children's mother.

The judgment also states the mother was to have "sole use and possession of the family home," property west of Hagerstown, and that Argote was not to enter that property.

Wilkinson was gunned down around 8 p.m. Oct. 19 in his driveway in the 19100 block of Olde Waterford Road north of Hagerstown.

Argote had been living with his family west of Hagerstown, but changed his address twice earlier this year, according to court filings. First he filed a change of address for Martinsburg and then to Frederick, Md.

In addition to the divorce case in Washington County, there also was a temporary protective order issued against Argote in June 2022 through Washington County District Court in which a judge ordered Argote not to abuse, threaten to abuse, contact or attempt to contact his wife and four children, according to court records.

According to the docket for the domestic violence case, that case was dismissed around the time the temporary protective order expired, at the request of the petitioner. The petitioner was Argote's wife.

"We have responded for verbal domestic assault two times in the last two years," but authorities were not aware of any prior criminal record in Washington County, Albert said at the news conference.

Argote legally owned a handgun, though Albert did not get into what the suspected firearm was in the shooting.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: MD sheriff offers details after body of suspect in judge slaying found
Hunter Biden appears to have not been invited to Wednesday's state dinner for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after facing backlash for attending others amid his ongoing legal issues and probes into his international business dealings.

Hunter was nowhere to be found on the guest list released by the White House ahead of the dinner, but other family members, including his three daughters, an aunt, uncle and two cousins, were invited.

He previously attended two state dinners while he was at the center of a years-long federal investigation into his business dealings and tax affairs, which continues today, including one on June 22 for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and another on Dec. 1 for French President Emmanuel Macron.

HUNTER BIDEN TOOK THOUSANDS FROM DAUGHTER'S COLLEGE FUND FOR HOOKERS AND DRUGS: REPORT

Hunter Biden looks on during the annual Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, U.S. April 18, 2022.

Hunter's appearance at the dinner on June 22 came just two days after it was announced he had struck a plea deal with federal prosecutors that included misdemeanor tax crimes and a diversion agreement on a felony gun charge, a deal that later fell apart.

Attorney General Merrick Garland, who leads the Justice Department and has faced scrutiny over its handling of the investigation in Hunter, also attended the state dinner in honor of Modi.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Hunter faced heat from across the political spectrum, including from hosts of ABC's liberal daytime gabfest "The View" as co-host Sara Haines argued he shouldn't have gone to the dinner after he agreed to plea guilty to two federal tax misdemeanors. The other co-hosts were split on the issue.

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION ADMITS IT DOXXED US SPECIAL FORCES SOLDIERS IN ISRAEL, APOLOGIZES

Attorney General Merrick Garland

Others defended Hunter's attendance, including Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., who called it a "separate thing" from his legal woes.

Hunter has pled not guilty to multiple charges in federal court, including making a false statement in the purchase of a firearm, making a false statement related to information required to be kept by a federal firearms licensed dealer, and one count of possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance.

With all counts combined, the total maximum prison time for the charges could be up to 25 years. Each count carries a maximum fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.

SQUAD DEMOCRATS VOTE AGAINST CONDEMNING BARBARIC HAMAS ATTACK ON ISRAEL

A courtroom sketch depicting Hunter Biden in a federal courtroom in Wilmington, Delaware on July 26, 2023.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the White House for comment.

Fox News' Jessica Chasmar, Cameron Cawthorne, Brooke Singman and Timothy H.J. Nerozzi contributed to this report.





Original article source: Hunter Biden missing from state dinner guest list after backlash for attending others amid legal issues
A man pushes a shopping cart of goods from a looted supermarket in Mexico's hurricane-stricken city of Acapulco (FRANCISCO ROBLES)

Hurricane Otis caused at least 27 deaths and major damage as it lashed Mexico's resort city of Acapulco as a scale-topping category 5 storm, officials said Thursday, in what residents called a "total disaster."

Otis crashed into Acapulco with furious winds of 165 miles (270 kilometers) per hour, shattering windows, uprooting trees and largely cutting off communications and road links with the region.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador arrived at the scene late Wednesday, after his convoy found roads blocked by landslides and other debris, forcing officials to abandon their vehicles and walk part of the way.

Some residents slogged for hours through mud and debris in an attempt to find food and shelter.

"Acapulco is a total disaster. It is not what it was before," said 24-year-old Eric Hernandez, who made the decision to leave on foot.

"The shops had all been looted, people were fighting for things. So we decided to walk as there wasn't anything left there," he said.

Others said an overflowing river and collapsed bridges had cut off communities near Acapulco, home to about 780,000 people.

"People were left homeless, there's no electricity," said Israel Perez, a 21-year-old baker.

Security Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez told a news conference Thursday that 27 people were dead and four were missing.

Three of those unaccounted for were soldiers, Lopez Obrador said after returning to Mexico City.

He described the storm as "disastrous" and said that it was only thanks to the actions of people who sought shelter that there were not more deaths.

The government would begin an airlift to deliver aid and materials to the region, Lopez Obrador said.

Telephone communications began to resume while the main highway from Mexico City to Acapulco was reopened.

- 'Like an earthquake' -

Otis rapidly intensified within hours from a tropical storm to the most powerful category of the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale before hitting land, taking authorities by surprise.

"It's unprecedented in the country in recent times, not only because of the way it strengthened so quickly but also the magnitude of the hurricane," Lopez Obrador said.

People recounted a terrifying ordeal as Otis made landfall overnight Tuesday-Wednesday, causing major structural damage.

"The building shook as if there was an earthquake," Citlali Portillo, a tourist accommodation manager, told the television channel Televisa, adding that she had taken shelter in a bathtub.

The storm overturned vehicles and even left a car in the lobby of a luxury hotel, surrounded by broken glass and debris.

Soldiers worked to clear the streets of mud and fallen trees.

Some residents were seen taking food, water and other goods from looted stores.

Hurricanes hit Mexico every year on both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts, usually between May and November, though few make landfall as a Category 5.

In October 1997, Hurricane Pauline hit Mexico's Pacific coast as a Category 4 storm, leaving more than 200 people dead, some of them in Acapulco.

It was one of the deadliest hurricanes to batter Mexico.

In October 2015, Patricia became the most powerful hurricane ever recorded, pummeling Mexico's Pacific coast with sustained winds of 200 miles per hour.

But the storm caused only material damage and no deaths as it made landfall in a sparsely populated mountainous area.

Scientists have warned that storms are becoming more powerful as the world gets warmer with climate change.

bur-dr/bgs
China on Wednesday made public an investigation report concerning a major fire that occurred in a Beijing hospital earlier this year, killing 29 people and injuring 42.

The fire broke out in Beijing Changfeng Hospital on April 18, resulting in a direct economic loss of 38.32 million yuan (about 5.34 million U.S. dollars), according to the report, which was approved by a State Council executive meeting.

The investigation team identified the fire as a major production safety accident, and said the hospital had carried out renovation work in violation of laws and regulations. The local Party committee and relevant government departments were also found to have failed to fulfill their duties.

The hospital failed to oversee construction safety, eliminate fire hazards, and respond to the accident effectively, according to the team.

The investigation showed that the fire was caused by sparks from a construction project that ignited volatiles produced by combustible paint.

Following the fire, the Beijing municipal government on April 21 designated an investigation team to look into the accident, and the State Council supervised the investigation process.

The team urged medical and health institutions to improve their safety management, plug loopholes in safety supervision and construction project management, and build up their emergency disposal capacities.
Hurricane Otis: At least 27 dead in Acapulco after nightmare Category-5 storm

At least 27 people are dead and four people are missing in Acapulco after a nightmare Category-5 hurricane, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

Hurricane Otis roared ashore shortly after midnight on Wednesday with 165mph winds and torrential rainfall, slamming into the coastal city where residents had little time to evacuate or prepare.

Otis is the strongest ever storm to make landfall on Mexicos west coast. The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 in just 12 hours, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.

The hurricane resulted in widespread devastation across the city and rural, mountain villages. Thousands of windows were blown out in apartment buildings and hotels while facades were stripped and ceilings collapsed. Flooding was widespread and residents were forced to pick their way through inches of mud in the streets to look for supplies.

Rescue efforts were slow after a landslide blocked the main highway to Acapulco, damaged airports and left tens of thousands without power or cell phone service.

Key Points

Acapulco still mostly inaccessible after havoc wreaked by Hurricane Otis

Survivors describe horror as Acapulco residents left in flooded and windblown chaos

Hurricane Otis makes landfall near Acapulco

Why did Hurricane Otis grow so quickly?

At least 27 dead and four missing in Acapulco after Otis

Atlantic hurricanes are intensifying faster due to the climate crisis

14:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis was notable for catching researchers off-guard with its rapid intensification from a Category 1 storm to a Category 5 storm in just under 12 hours.

Unfortunately, the climate crisis may make such events more frequent.

A recent study published in Natures journal Scientific Reports found that tropical storms forming in the Atlantic intensified nearly 29% more quickly on average between 2001 and 2020 than similar storms did 30 years earlier.

Hurricanes intensify over warm water  as Hurricane Otis did off the coast of Acapulco just before it made landfall  and the climate crisis is the leading contributor to warming global water temperatures.

The Earths oceans have absorbed more than 90 per cent of the heat created by the human burning of fossil fuels, driving global temperatures to record highs.

While the climate crisis may not necessarily cause more hurricanes, it is making them stronger and more unpredictable.

Air bridge between Acapulco and Mexico City to be set up to evacuate tourists

13:56 , Martha Mchardy

An air bridge between Acapulco and Mexico City will be set up on Friday to evacuate tourists, the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport said, after announcing the control tower at Acapulco International Airport was back in operation.

It comes amid an exodus of tourists from Acapulco after a Category 5 hurricane ripped through the city on Wednesday, destroying homes and 80 per cent of the hotels in the region.

Two vessels are also en route to Acapulco carrying two water purification plants, a mobile kitchenette, four power plants, and two motor pumps, the Mexican Secretary of the Navy (Semar) said, after 165mph winds left residents without electricity or water.

Half of electricity service restored to Guerrero

13:50 , Martha Mchardy

The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) said on Friday it had restored 50% of the electricity service in Guerrero, despite the access and communication obstacles encountered by the state-owned companys staff.

Hundreds of thousands of residents in Acapulco were left without electricity, cell phone service or running water after 165mph winds destroyed all of the citys power lines.

Before and after image shows extent of damage to Acapulco after Hurricane Otis

13:30 , Martha Mchardy

Satellite images provided by Maxar Technollogies show the extent of the damage to Acapulcos coastline caused by Hurricane Otis.

The bottom image shows the citys coastline after the catastrophic Category 5 hurricane destroyed much of Acapulco.

Other images show damaged boats in Acapulco Bay and the damage caused to the La Poza neighborhood caused by 165mph winds and torrential rain.

Residents fear it could take a year for Acapulco to recover from Hurricane Otis.

Satellite image shows overview of the coastline in Acapulco, Guerrero state before and after Hurricane Otis (Satellite image A2023 Maxar Tech)

Satellite image shows damaged boats in a marina, in Acapulco Bay (EPA)

Satellite image shows storm damage and inundation in La Poza neighborhood, Acapulco (EPA)

Mexican austerity measures cut disaster relief spending in 2021

13:00 , Graig Graziosi

In 2021, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors administration cut funding to the nations Natural Disaster Fund, which was established to help pay for emergency relief and disaster response efforts following major incidents.

Two years later, Mexico is facing the partial destruction of a major city due to Hurricane Otis, and has been forced to respond without its disaster funding pool intact.

Mr Lopez Obrador justified the cut at the time by claiming it was an instrument riddled with corruption, and whose funds did not reach the people.

The fund was at one time considered one of the worlds most advanced financial instruments for responding to disasters, according to The New York Times.

Frustrations grow at slow government response to Hurricane Otis

12:30 , Martha Mchardy

Frustrations are growing at the slow government response to Hurricane Otis.

Survivors of the catastrophic storm fear the government response may focus on repairing infrastructure for the citys economic engine of tourism instead of helping the neediest.

Many of Acapulcos one million residents have been left without homes or electricity after 165mph winds battered the city on Wednesday.

People are also lacking the most basic of resources, the AP reported, with widespread looting in the city for resources such as toilet roll.

Theyre going to close these stores and that hurts Acapulco, a labourer in the city told AP.

Meanwhile, Acapulcos police chief Luis Enrique Vazquez Rodriguez admitted there is little that can be done to stop people from looting local stores.

We dont have the capacity to stop looting because theres so many people, he said. This is a completely extraordinary situation.

Some residents fear it could take a year for Acapulco to recover; with no power, gasoline, little cell coverage and hotels wrecked by the hurricane.

But some residents were more optimistic. Marketing expert Antonio Esparza said the hurricane may improve Acapulco because it may force the government to pay attention.

Otis is the strongest ever storm to make landfall on Mexicos west coast. The storm destroyed 80 per cent of the citys hotels and all of the citys power lines, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and cell phone service.

As of Thursday, there were 250,000 homes and businesses still without electricity.

Exodus from Acapulco after Hurricane Otis rips through city

12:16 , Martha Mchardy

People are fleeing from Acapulco after a catastrophic Category 5 hurricane left hundreds of thousands of residents without homes and electricity.

At least 27 people are dead and four people are missing after Hurricane Otis brought 165mph winds and torrential rainfall to Acapulco on Wednesday.

The hurricane has seen 80 per cent of the citys hotels destroyed, while all the citys power lines were destroyed, leaving residents without cell phone service and water.

There is also widespread looting in the city after people were left without basic resources. You cant buy anything in Acapulco, not even if you want to, one resident said.

As of Friday, large areas of Acapulco remain cut off without aid or assistance. The governor of the State of Guerrero, Evelyn Salgado, has said that 30 buses per day will be provided to evacuate tourists.

The hotel told us that it could no longer guarantee water, food or safety, said the Chavez family, who were staying in the Emporio hotel in Acapuulco.

There are too many people trying to get out, the family added. They said cab drivers are charging $25 per passenger for the journey.

Hurricane Otiss approach to Mexico was very rare

12:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis made landfall on Wednesday, battering the Pacific-coast city of Acapulco, Mexico with Category 5 winds.

The hurricane was notable not just for its rapid intensification from a Category 1 to a Category 5 storm in just 12 hours, but also for where it hit; hurricanes rarely make landfall on Mexicos Pacific coast.

The last hurricane to hit on the Pacific coast within 50 miles of Acapulco was the Category 1 Hurricane Max in 2017, according to NOAA data.

Its very rare for intense storms to make landfall in Mexicos eastern Pacific side, Suzana Camargo, hurricane expert and professor at Columbia Universitys Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, told CNN.

Latest pictures of devastation caused by Hurricane Otis

11:40 , Martha Mchardy

People walk next to debris left after the passage of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco (AFP via Getty Images)

A man walks on a looted supermarket after the passage of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco (AFP via Getty Images)

View of the damage caused after the passage of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco (AFP via Getty Images)

View of damages in the beach area following the passage of Hurricane Otis (AFP via Getty Images)

Taxis and public transportation units pass near a hole opened in the road after hurricane Otis hit Acapulc (Getty Images)

Watch: Footage shows damage to Acapulco International Airport after Hurricane Otis

11:15 , Martha Mchardy

Footage shows the damage caused to the control tower of the Acapulco International Airport after Hurricane Otis ripped through the city on Wednesday.

The video, posted to X, showed the airports control tower almost completely destroyed after 165mph winds battered Acapulco on Wednesday.

The hurricane also destroyed many homes, as well 80 per cent of the citys hotels and all the citys power lines.

Otis is the strongest ever storm to make landfall on Mexicos west coast. The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 in just 12 hours, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.

Mexican government evacuating tourists trapped in Acapulco following Hurricane Otis

11:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otiss surprise rapid intensification from a Category 1 to a Category 5 hurricane in less than 12 hours caught not only researchers off-guard, but also the tourists visiting Acapulco earlier this week.

In the wake of the monster storm  which killed 27 people and left four others missing  the Mexican government has had its hands full managing clean-up efforts and the evacuation of tourists left in the blown-out hulls of hotels in the city.

Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado said her office is supporting tourists with 30 to 40 trucks that are outside hotels to evacuate (visitors) to other areas free of charge, according to CNN.

Approximately 80 per cent of the citys hotels were damaged by the storm, according to Ms Salgado.

Losses caused by Hurricane Otis could total up to $15billion

10:40 , Martha Mchardy

The insurable loss from Hurricane Otis could total up to $15 billion, according to risk analytics and modelling firm CoreLogic.

The firm estimated that losses could be between $10 and $15 billion after 165mph winds destroyed many buildings in Acapulco.

The estimate does not include business interruptions or costs associated with additional living expenses.

Approximately 80 per cent of the citys hotels were damaged by the storm, according to Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado Pineda.

Fears grow for people still missing in Acapulco after storm killed 27

10:14 , Martha Mchardy

Fears are growing for the four people missing in Acapulco after a nightmare Category-5 hurricane ripped through the city.

At least 27 people are dead and four people are missing after Hurricane Otis brought 165mph winds and torrential rainfall to Acapulco on Wednesday.

Flora Contreras Santos, a housewife who lives on the outskirts of the city, told of her fear after her three-year-old neighbor was swept away from her mother in a mudslide.

The mountain came down on them. The mud took her from the mothers arms, she told the Associated Press. We need help, the mother is in bad shape and we cant find the girl.

Meanwhile, Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado Pineda announced the establishment of a WhatsApp line to help people contact their families after communications went down in Acapulco on Wednesday.

Countrymen and women, we know that, as a result of the damage to the satellite network, contact with our families is limited and in some cases has not been possible. Therefore, at this time I make the following contacts available to you exclusively to send messages via WhatsApp, in order to facilitate the immediate search for your families, she said in a post on X.

Scientists investigating why Otis caught them so off-guard

10:00 , Graig Graziosi

In the wake of Hurricane Otis, scientists were trying to piece together how everyone had been caught so off-guard, even as forecasting models have gotten better in the past few years.

The models completely blew it, MIT atmospheric sciences professor Kerry Emanuel, a hurricane expert, told The AP.

A rapid analysis, from an international team of scientists at the ClimaMeter group, reported on Thursday that the climate crisis contributed to make the rainfall in Hurricane Otis more intense.

The rapid and unexpected intensification of Otis left the scientific community in awe, said Stavros Dafis, a research and development specialist at the Data4Risk company in France and a research associate at the National Observatory of Athens.

Record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling stronger and more destructive cyclones in general. This heat is being caused by a fossil-fuel-driven climate crisis with El Nino, a cyclical weather pattern, layered on top.

Images show destruction of city streets, shopping centre in Acapulco following Hurricane Otis

09:00 , Graig Graziosi

View of debris and damaged vehicles after the passage of hurricane Otis in the beach resort of Acapulco, in the state of Guerrero, Mexico, 26 October 2023 (EPA)

General view of a shopping mall destroyed after hurricane Otis hit Acapulco on October 25, 2023 (Getty Images)

ICYMI: Mexican President gets stuck in mud as he visits Acapulco

08:00 , Graig Graziosi

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador travelled to Acapulco on Thursday, where at least 27 people died in a category 5 hurricane.

Mr Lopez Obradors car became stuck in the mud as he tried to get over the highway.

He had to get out of the car to walk after debris from a mudslide blocked the way.

The army is bringing machinery and were going to try to reopen [the highway] as soon as possible, he said.

It came after Acapulco residents expressed their dissatisfaction at the speed of rescue efforts.

Residents have also described looting taking place at local shops after families lost their homes and important documents in the hurricane.

When is the government ever going to look after the common people? one resident said.

Powerful winds and heavy rainfall have ravaged the city after Hurricane Otis made landfall in Acapulco just after midnight in the city, causing flooding and landslides.

Tens of thousands were also left without power after the hurricane destroyed all the citys powerlines.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors vehicle is stuck in mud during a visit to the Kilometro 42 community, near Acapulco, Guerrero State, Mexico, after the passage of Hurricane Otis, on October 25, 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Not a single powerline left standing in Acapulco after Hurricane Otis

07:00 , Graig Graziosi

Not a single powerline was left standing in the Mexican city of Acapulco after Hurricane Otis ripped through the city, Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said.

Millions of people in Acapulco were left without power after 165mph winds hammered the city yesterday.

President Lopez Obrador added that small farmers had their corn crops devastated by Otis.

He said restoring power to the city is the top priority.

Four missing after catastrophic Hurricane Otis

06:00 , Graig Graziosi

At least four people are missing after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez said at least 27 people have died, while four are missing after 165mph winds ripped through Acapulco yesterday.

WATCH: At least 27 killed after Hurricane Otis slams into Mexicos Acapulco

04:59 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis path tracker: Where will the storm hit next?

04:00 , Graig Graziosi

Heavy rain from Otis will continue to impact areas of southwest Mexico across Guerrero and Oaxaca states, and may also cause life-threatening coastal flooding through Thursday, NHC said.

Martha McHardy reports:

Hurricane Otis path tracker: Where will the storm hit next?

03:00 , Graig Graziosi

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

A nightmare scenario struck shortly after midnight in the coastal city of Acapulco on Wednesday.

Hurricane Otis roared ashore in southern Mexico, the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 in just 12 hours in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.

Louise Boyle reports:

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

WATCH: Hurricane Otis winds blast through Acapulco hospital after storm makes landfall in Mexico

02:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis may have set record for most people to experience a Category 5 hurricane at one time

01:00 , Graig Graziosi

Because Hurricane Otiss eyewall  the most powerful part of the storm  was directly over Acapulco when it made landfall on Wednesday, it may have set a record for the most number of people to experience a Category 5 storm at one time, according to former NOAA hurricane scientist Jeff Masters.

The population of Acapulco is just over a million people.

Hurricane Otis' eyewall hit the most heavily developed areas of Acapulco (pop. just over 1 million), perhaps setting a record for the largest number of people ever to experience the eyewall of a Cat 5 storm.https://t.co/lMwyq0hxCr  Jeff Masters (@DrJeffMasters) October 25, 2023

New House Speakers previous committee once called the Green New Deal the Greedy New Steal

Friday 27 October 2023 00:00 , Graig Graziosi

On the same day Hurricane Otis slammed into Acapulco with 165mph winds, killing 27 and causing widespread damage throughout the Mexican city, House Republicans in the US elected Congressman Mike Johnson to serve as the new Speaker of the House.

The hurricane underwent rapid intensification, transforming from a Category 1 storm to a Category 5 storm in just under 12 hours, catching researchers completely off-guard.

The ongoing climate crisis is driving global water temperatures to record highs, and those temperatures help to fuel the rapid intensification of hurricanes into monsters like Otis.

In 2019, when Mr Johnson was chairing the Republican Study Committee, the group collectively sneered at the Green New Deal, a proposal intended to help take rigorous steps to combat the climate crisis.

The group mocked the proposal, calling it the Greedy New Steal.

Veteran Weather Channel hurricane expert Jim Cantore says he never saw it coming when commenting on Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 23:00 , Graig Graziosi

Jim Cantore, a meteorologist who has spent decades covering hurricanes on the ground for the Weather Channel, said he never saw it coming while discussing the intensity of Hurricane Otis.

The hurricane underwent rapid intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 storm in just under 12 hours, after which it hit Acapulco and killed 27 people.

Footage from the city show portions of it in ruins. Buildings crumbled and windows were blown out of storefronts, businesses, and residences.

Do I dare take my eyes off invest92E or 92EP after what happened to Otis? In my 37 plus years I have never seen something like that occur with a tropical system. When I left on assignment Monday I knew it could impact Mexico, but to blow up like that!! Never saw it coming. pic.twitter.com/PMLGOOUyst  Jim Cantore (@JimCantore) October 26, 2023

Atlantic hurricanes are intensifying faster due to the climate crisis

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:00 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis was notable for catching researchers off-guard with its rapid intensification from a Category 1 storm to a Category 5 storm in just under 12 hours.

Unfortunately, the climate crisis may make such events more frequent.

A recent study published in Natures journal Scientific Reports found that tropical storms forming in the Atlantic intensified nearly 29% more quickly on average between 2001 and 2020 than similar storms did 30 years earlier.

Hurricanes intensify over warm water  as Hurricane Otis did off the coast of Acapulco just before it made landfall  and the climate crisis is the leading contributor to warming global water temperatures.

The Earths oceans have absorbed more than 90 per cent of the heat created by the human burning of fossil fuels, driving global temperatures to record highs.

While the climate crisis may not necessarily cause more hurricanes, it is making them stronger and more unpredictable.

Mexican austerity measures cut disaster relief spending in 2021

Thursday 26 October 2023 21:34 , Graig Graziosi

In 2021, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors administration cut funding to the nations Natural Disaster Fund, which was established to help pay for emergency relief and disaster response efforts following major incidents.

Two years later, Mexico is facing the partial destruction of a major city due to Hurricane Otis, and has been forced to respond without its disaster funding pool intact.

Mr Lopez Obrador justified the cut at the time by claiming it was an instrument riddled with corruption, and whose funds did not reach the people.

The fund was at one time considered one of the worlds most advanced financial instruments for responding to disasters, according to The New York Times.

Hurricane Otiss approach to Mexico was very rare

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:53 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otis made landfall on Wednesday, battering the Pacific-coast city of Acapulco, Mexico with Category 5 winds.

The hurricane was notable not just for its rapid intensification from a Category 1 to a Category 5 storm in just 12 hours, but also for where it hit; hurricanes rarely make landfall on Mexicos Pacific coast.

The last hurricane to hit on the Pacific coast within 50 miles of Acapulco was the Category 1 Hurricane Max in 2017, according to NOAA data.

Its very rare for intense storms to make landfall in Mexicos eastern Pacific side, Suzana Camargo, hurricane expert and professor at Columbia Universitys Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, told CNN.

Before and after photos show the damage Hurricane Otis did to a brand new high-rise apartment building in Acapulco.

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:30 , Graig Graziosi

The photos show the towering apartment complex prior to the hurricanes arrival sporting rows of gleaming, pristine windows. The second photo, taken after the storms arrival, shows the extent of the damage done to the new build. Nearly all of the windows have been completely blown out.

It is unclear how much of the interiors of the apartments were finished when the storm hit, but it is likely the interiors were also soaked by rainwater and subject to more than 150mph winds at the time of the storms arrival.

Before & after: This brand new $130 million luxury high-rise in Acapulco, Mexico has been severely damaged by Hurricane Otis. pic.twitter.com/X2PVzxrTIO  Nahel Belgherze (@WxNB_) October 26, 2023

Watch: The devastation wrought by Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:00 , Graig Graziosi

A video captured the destruction left by Hurricane Otis when it made landfall in Acapulco, Mexico.

The footage, shot from a car driving down a city street, shows blown out windows, rubble, and the cracked and damage exteriors of buildings left in the storms wake.

Officials have said that not a single power line pole remained standing in Acapulco. There are still dozens of communities without communication. #HurricaneOtis #HurracanOtis #Otis #Acapulco #Mexico pic.twitter.com/v4FWtE5BuN  Volcaholic  (@volcaholic1) October 26, 2023

Hurricane Otis devastates Acapulco as survivors take stock of their destroyed city

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:43 , Graig Graziosi

Mexican government evacuating tourists trapped in Acapulco following Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:15 , Graig Graziosi

Hurricane Otiss surprise rapid intensification from a Category 1 to a Category 5 hurricane in less than 12 hours caught not only researchers off-guard, but also the tourists visiting Acapulco earlier this week.

In the wake of the monster storm  which killed 27 people and left four others missing  the Mexican government has had its hands full managing clean-up efforts and the evacuation of tourists left in the blown-out hulls of hotels in the city.

Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado said her office is supporting tourists with 30 to 40 trucks that are outside hotels to evacuate (visitors) to other areas free of charge, according to CNN.

Approximately 80 per cent of the citys hotels were damaged by the storm, according to Ms Salgado.

Scientists investigating why Otis caught them so off-guard

Thursday 26 October 2023 18:55 , Louise Boyle

In the wake of Hurricane Otis, scientists were trying to piece together how everyone had been caught so off-guard, even as forecasting models have gotten better in the past few years.

The models completely blew it, MIT atmospheric sciences professor Kerry Emanuel, a hurricane expert, told The AP.

A rapid analysis, from an international team of scientists at the ClimaMeter group, reported on Thursday that the climate crisis contributed to make the rainfall in Hurricane Otis more intense.

The rapid and unexpected intensification of Otis left the scientific community in awe, said Stavros Dafis, a research and development specialist at the Data4Risk company in France and a research associate at the National Observatory of Athens.

Record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling stronger and more destructive cyclones in general. This heat is being caused by a fossil-fuel-driven climate crisis with El Nino, a cyclical weather pattern, layered on top.

ICYMI: Hurricane Otis leaves 27 dead in Acapulco after devastating Category-5 storm

Thursday 26 October 2023 18:00 , Martha Mchardy

At least 27 people are dead and four are missing in Acapulco after a nightmare Category-5 hurricane, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

Hurricane Otis roared ashore shortly after midnight on Wednesday with 165mph winds and torrential rainfall, slamming into the coastal city where residents had little time to evacuate or prepare.

Unfortunately, we received word from the state and city governments that 27 people are dead and four are missing, said Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez, according to AFP.

Louise Boyle reports:

Hurricane Otis leaves 27 dead in Acapulco after Category-5 storm

Latest pictures from Acapulco after Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 17:30 , Martha Mchardy

Mexicos president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador and members of his cabinet walk through mud as they visit a hurricane-damaged community near Acapulco on Wednesday (AFP via Getty Images)

Debris on the beach in Acapulco, Mexio on Thursday after Hurricane Otis (AP)

View of the damage caused by Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, Mexico (AFP via Getty Images)

Survivors loot a grocery store in Acapulco after Hurricane Otis (AP)

Mexican President gets stuck in mud as he visits Acapulco

Thursday 26 October 2023 17:04 , Martha Mchardy

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador travelled to Acapulco on Thursday, where at least 27 people died in a category 5 hurricane.

Mr Lopez Obradors car became stuck in the mud as he tried to get over the highway.

He had to get out of the car to walk after debris from a mudslide blocked the way.

The army is bringing machinery and were going to try to reopen [the highway] as soon as possible, he said.

It came after Acapulco residents expressed their dissatisfaction at the speed of rescue efforts.

Residents have also described looting taking place at local shops after families lost their homes and important documents in the hurricane.

When is the government ever going to look after the common people? one resident said.

Powerful winds and heavy rainfall have ravaged the city after Hurricane Otis made landfall in Acapulco just after midnight in the city, causing flooding and landslides.

Tens of thousands were also left without power after the hurricane destroyed all the citys powerlines.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obradors vehicle is stuck in mud during a visit to the Kilometro 42 community, near Acapulco, Guerrero State, Mexico, after the passage of Hurricane Otis, on October 25, 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Not a single powerline left standing in Acapulco after Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 16:14 , Martha Mchardy

Not a single powerline was left standing in the Mexican city of Acapulco after Hurricane Otis ripped through the city, Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said.

Millions of people in Acapulco were left without power after 165mph winds hammered the city yesterday.

President Lopez Obrador added that small farmers had their corn crops devastated by Otis.

He said restoring power to the city is the top priority.

One soldier among dead after wall collapsed on him'

Thursday 26 October 2023 16:03 , Martha Mchardy

At least one soldier is among the 27 people dead in Acapulco after a Category 5 hurricane ripped through the city.

Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador did not share details about those who died, but said one soldier was killed in the hurricane after a wall collapsed on him.

At least four people are missing.

Four missing after catastrophic Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:40 , Martha Mchardy

At least four people are missing after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez said at least 27 people have died, while four are missing after 165mph winds ripped through Acapulco yesterday.

Main road connecting Acapulco to Mexico City partially reopens

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:37 , Martha Mchardy

The main road connecting Acapulco to Mexico City has reopened in one direction, Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez said.

The road was closed after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco yesterday, destroying many buildings.

Communications were also down in the city overnight, with many still without power on Thursday.

At least 27 dead in Acapulco after Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:31 , Martha Mchardy

At least 27 people are dead after Hurricane Otis, Mexican officials said on Thursday.

Unfortunately, we received word from the state and city governments that 27 people are dead and four are missing, Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez told a news conference in Mexico City.

She said communications with Acapulco were being gradually restored.

Latest pictures: Destruction caused by Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:00 , Martha Mchardy

A view shows damage after Hurricane Otis hit, in Acapulco in the Mexican state of Guerrero (REUTERS)

People pass by part of a road which was washed away at the Kilometro 42 community, near Acapulco (AFP via Getty Images)

Authorities warned of catastrophic damage' (AFP via Getty Images)

A damaged building stands after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico (AP)

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:30 , Martha Mchardy

A nightmare scenario struck shortly after midnight in the coastal city of Acapulco on Wednesday.

Hurricane Otis roared ashore in southern Mexico, the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 in just 12 hours in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.

Louise Boyle reports:

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

Hurricane Otis path tracker: Where will the storm hit next?

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:00 , Martha Mchardy

Heavy rain from Otis will continue to impact areas of southwest Mexico across Guerrero and Oaxaca states, and may also cause life-threatening coastal flooding through Thursday, NHC said.

Martha McHardy reports:

Hurricane Otis path tracker: Where will the storm hit next?

Is it safe to travel amid Hurricane Otis?

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:30 , Martha Mchardy

After Hurricane Otis escalated into a Category 5 storm last night (24 October), concerns over the safety of travel to Mexico and the risk of further natural disasters have risen.

Hurricane conditions made a powerful landfall in Acapulco on Mexicos Pacific coastline on Wednesday morning and sustained 165-mph winds are expected to sweep the south coast between San Jose del Progreso and San Jeronimo de Juarez on 25 October.

The general directorate of tourist services, Angeles Verdes, said: Safety is our top priority, and currently, travel to certain regions of Mexico may be risky due to adverse weather conditions and affected infrastructure.

The recommendation from Angeles Verdes is that you reconsider your trip or stay informed about the situation in Mexico before making a decision. It is important to check the warnings and recommendations of local authorities and civil protection to ensure your safety during your stay.

Mexico is a beautiful country with a lot to offer visitors, but in situations like this, it is essential to prioritize safety. For when you postpone your trip, we will be here to help you with future experiences in Mexico when conditions are safer.

Is it safe to travel to Mexico right now?

Watch: Hurricane Otis makes landfall as 165mph winds hit Mexico

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:00 , Martha Mchardy

Hurricanes are getting stronger. Heres why

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:30 , Martha Mchardy

Hurricane Otis slammed into Mexico early on Wednesday as the strongest ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

Otis went from a Category 1 to Category 5 hurricane in just 12 hours  the fastest rate ever recorded in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

The storm made landfall near Acapulco and is moving north-northwest through the country.

As global temperatures increase and sea levels rise, tropical cyclones - the catch-all term for hurricanes and typhoons - are expected to become more powerful and destructive, scientists say.

The ocean hit record high temperatures this year, driving marine heatwaves around the world. This heat is being caused by a fossil-fuel driven climate crisis with El Nino, a cyclical weather pattern, layered on top.

Louise Boyle reports:

Hurricanes are getting stronger. Heres why

Watch: Infrared satellite shows extremely dangerous Hurricane Otis make landfall in Mexico

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:00 , Martha Mchardy

Watch: Hurricane Otis winds blast through Acapulco hospital after storm makes landfall in Mexico

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:30 , Martha Mchardy

Why did Hurricane Otis rapidly intensify into a Category 5 overnight?

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:00 , Martha Mchardy

Hurricane Otis slammed into Mexico early on Wednesday as the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

Otis went from a Category 1 to Category 5 hurricane in only 12 hours  the fastest rate ever recorded in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

According to the National Hurricane Center, the eye of Otis made landfall close to the resort town of Acapulco around 12.25am local time with winds of 165mph. Forecasters described it as a nightmare scenario for southern Mexico.

The storm is tracking north through the country and is expected to dump five to 10 inches (13-25cm) of rain on Guerrero state with as much as 15 inches (38cm) possible in some areas. That raised the possibility of mudslides and flashfloods in Guerreros steep mountainous terrain.

Martha McHardy reports:

Why did Hurricane Otis rapidly intensify into a Category 5 overnight?

Residents express anger as stores looted and rescue efforts remain slow

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:29 , Stuti Mishra

With assessment of damages and loss of life still unknown from Hurricane Ortis, there seemed to be a widespread frustration with authorities in Acapulco which has been left completely devastated after the storm.

While some 10,000 military troops were deployed to the area, they lacked the tools to clean tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets, the Associated Press reported.

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco early on Wednesday, but seemed at a loss as to how to restore power, with downed electricity lines lying in feet of mud and water.

Pablo Navarro, an auto parts worker who was lodged in temporary accommodations at a beach front hotel, told the agency that he stood outside a discount grocery and household goods store near the hotel zone, as hundreds of people wrestled everything from packs of hot dogs and toilet paper to flat screen TVs out of the muddy store, struggling to push loaded metal shopping carts onto the mud-choked streets outside.

"This is out of control," he said.

Isabel de la Cruz, a resident of Acapulco, tried to move a shopping cart loaded with diapers, instant noodles and toilet paper through the mud.

She viewed what she took as a chance to help her family after she lost the tin roof of her home and her family's important documents in the hurricane.

"When is the government ever going to look after the common people?" she said.

Inside one store, National Guard officers allowed looters to take perishable items like food, but made futile efforts to prevent people from taking appliances, even as people outside loaded refrigerators on top of taxis.

Death toll from Hurricane Ortis still unknown

Thursday 26 October 2023 09:29 , Stuti Mishra

A day after Hurricane Ortis made landfall in Mexico's Acapulco, unleashing heavy rains and leaving residents without electricity or internet service, the death toll still remains uncertain.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City. The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulco's commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights.

On Wednesday night the city plunged into darkness. There was no phone service, but some people were able to use satellite phones loaned by the Red Cross to let family members know they were OK.

'We laid down on the floor': Survivors describe horror as Acapulco residents left in flooded and windblown chaos

Thursday 26 October 2023 08:29 , Stuti Mishra

A day after Hurricane Otis roared ashore in Acapulco, unleashing massive floods and setting off looting, the resort city of nearly one million descended into chaos.

The early images and accounts were of extensive devastation, toppled trees and power lines lying in brown floodwaters that in some areas extended for miles.

Jakob Sauczuk was staying with a group of friends at a beachfront hotel when Otis hit. "We laid down on the floor, and some between beds," Mr Sauczuk said. "We prayed a lot."

One of his friends showed reporters photos of the windowless, shattered rooms in the hotel. It looked as if someone had put clothes, beds and furniture in a blender, leaving a shredded mass.

Mr Sauczuk complained that his group was given no warning, nor were offered safer shelter, by the hotel.

Pablo Navarro, an auto parts worker who was lodged in temporary accommodations at a beach front hotel, thought he might die in his 13th story hotel room.

"I took shelter in the bathroom, and thankfully the door held," said Navarro. "But there were some room where the wind blew out the windows and the doors."

Why did Hurricane Otis grow so quickly?

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:13 , Stuti Mishra

Hurricane Otis tore across Mexico's southern Pacific coast as a powerful and dangerous Category 5 hurricane on Wednesday.

The National Hurricane Center said the storm rapidly intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, meaning its wind speed were by 35mph (46kph) in 24 hours.

Its rapid intensification left officials blindsided.

Here's how the hurricane intensified so quickly and how record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling stronger and more destructive cyclones in general.

Martha McHardy reports:

Why did Hurricane Otis rapidly intensify into a Category 5 overnight?

Acapulco still mostly inaccessible after havoc wreaked by Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:42 , Stuti Mishra

The town of Acapulco remained almost inaccessible by roads Wednesday night as officials continue to assess the damage from Hurricane Otis.

Little is known about possible deaths or the full extent of the damage as experts are calling Otis the strongest storm in history to make landfall along the Eastern Pacific Coast.

Many of the once sleek beachfront hotels looked like toothless shattered hulks, after Hurricane Otis blew out hundreds - and possibly thousands - of hotel windows.

Choked with mud and debris, with no electricity or internet service, the Pacific coast resorts descended into chaos after the storm, as thousands engaged in massive looting.

Diamond Zone, an oceanfront area replete with hotels, restaurants and other tourist attractions, looked to be mostly underwater in drone footage that Foro TV posted online on Wednesday afternoon, with boulevards and bridges completely hidden by an enormous lake of brown water.

Large buildings had their walls and roofs partially or completely ripped off.

Dislodged solar panels, cars and debris littered the lobby of one severely damaged hotel. People wandered up to their waists in water in some areas, while on other less-flooded streets soldiers shovelled rubble and fallen palm fronds from the pavement.

While much of the city was in the dark and without phone service, some people were able to use satellite phones loaned by the Red Cross to let family members know they were OK.

In photos: Hurricane Otis flattens buildings and resort and unleashes massive flooding

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:08 , Stuti Mishra

A view shows street stalls damaged by Hurricane Otis near the entrance to Acapulco, in the Mexican state of Guerrero (REUTERS)

A view shows vehicles trapped by the landslide on parts of the route to Acapulco after Hurricane Otis hit, in the Mexican state of Guerrero (REUTERS)

A general view of the damaged beach resort following Hurricane Otis (via REUTERS)

A general view of a damaged PEMEX gas station on a road after Hurricane Otis hit, near Acapulco (REUTERS)

Rescue efforts hampered by unaccessible roads

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:00 , Louise Boyle

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said that rescue efforts and repair convoys were being hampered by the lack of access. Roads were covered in debris and bridges had collapsed in places after Hurricane Otis.

Flights had been grounded and officials were struggling to access the area as the local military airport had also sustained damage.

The storm moved inland on Wednesday bringing powerful winds and heavy rains across the states of Guerrero and Oaxaca. Otis is expected to begin to dissipate when it slams into Mexicos mountain range later tonight.

Footage of Acapulco shows aftermath of Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 04:00 , Ariana Baio

Otis took many forecasters by surprise

Thursday 26 October 2023 02:00 , Martha McHardy

Hurricane Otis slammed into Mexico early on Wednesday as the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

Otis went from a Category 1 to a Category 5 hurricane in only 12 hours  the fastest rate ever recorded in the Eastern Pacific Ocean.

The National Hurricane Center considers a storm to rapidly intensify if it increases wind speed by 35mph (46kph) in 24 hours.

While it is still too early to say what impact the climate crisis had on this individual weather event, record-breaking ocean temperatures are fuelling stronger and more destructive cyclones in general.

Heat in the ocean supercharges hurricanes with more moisture and stronger winds. This heat is being caused by a fossil-fuel-driven climate crisis with El Nino, a cyclical weather pattern, layered on top.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says that the climate crisiss impact on hurricane power is like adding fuel to a fire.

Sea level rise is compounding the danger. Since the late 19th century, global sea level has risen by eight inches  threatening coastal communities and increasing flooding risk when storms push water inland.

Rising sea levels can also wipe out natural coastal defences which act as buffers to hurricanes such as marshy wetlands and swamps.

In Photos: Landslides threaten Acapulco area after storm

Thursday 26 October 2023 01:00 , Ariana Baio

Workers clear a blocked highway after the passing of Hurricane Otis near Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 (AP)

A man crosses a highway blocked by a landslide triggered by Hurricane Otis near Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 (AP)

People get help crossing a highway blocked by a landslide triggered by Hurricane Otis near Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 (AP)

Satellite footage shows lightning strikes in eye of Hurricane Otis

Thursday 26 October 2023 00:15 , Ariana Baio

SATELLITE SPOTLIGHT: @NOAA's #GOES18  caught an incredible display of eye wall #lightning as Hurricane #Otis rapidly strengthened yesterday evening. According to @NHC_Atlantic, Otis was the strongest Eastern Pacific hurricane to make landfall in the satellite era. #Acapulco pic.twitter.com/auThP6ueUO  NOAA Satellites - Public Affairs (@NOAASatellitePA) October 25, 2023

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

Wednesday 25 October 2023 23:00 , Louise Boyle

A nightmare scenario struck shortly after midnight in the coastal city of Acapulco on Wednesday.

Hurricane Otis roared ashore in southern Mexico, the strongest-ever storm to make landfall on the countrys west coast.

The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to a Category 5 in just 12 hours in the Eastern Pacific Ocean, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.

The storm made landfall with 165mph winds and torrential rain of up to 15 inches in places.

Read more here:

Acapulco cut off by Cat-5 Hurricane Otis which caught forecasters by surprise

Earthquake detected in resort city hours after Otis

Wednesday 25 October 2023 22:30 , Ariana Baio

A 4.4-magnitude earthquake was detected in the resort city of Zihuatanejo  just 120 miles north of Acapulco  hours after Otis caused massive destruction to the southern part of Mexicos Pacific coast.

A preliminary evaluation of the area was conducted by state and municipal personnel in the area, the Mexican civil protection coordination agency said.

Residents were not warned of the earthquake because the seismic system used to warn people was unable to operate.

SkyAlerts  the early earthquake-warning service, said damage left behind from Otis had left their infrastructure temporarily inoperative.

Actualizacion del sismo de Zihuatanejo:

SSN ajusta magnitud de 5.0 a 4.4 con epicentro a 28 km al suroeste de Zihuatanejo, #Guerrero.



La conectividad de @REDSkyAlert es limitada en Guerrero por el devastador paso de #Otis. Por lluvias y vientos, la afectacion en la red es desde pic.twitter.com/vVUNnKoqjx  SkyAlert (@SkyAlertMx) October 25, 2023

Otis now a tropical storm

Wednesday 25 October 2023 22:00 , Ariana Baio

The Category 5 hurricane that lashed through parts of Mexicos Pacific coast was downgraded to a tropical storm, just hours after it made landfall.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said maximum wind speeds were around 60 mph on Wednesday afternoon.

It was located around 130 miles North / North-West of Acapulco.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Punta Maldonado and Acapulco.

A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area, the NHC wrote.
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At least 27 people were killed by Hurricane Otis, which made landfall on Mexico's Pacific coast on Wednesday, officials say.

Four more people have been reported missing, the security secretary said.

Acapulco was among the areas worst hit with 80% of the resort's hotels damaged and streets flooded.

The Mexican President travelled to the city by land and at one point had to get out of his car and walk as debris from a mudslide blocked the highway.

The car President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was travelling in got stuck in the mud

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (3-L), accompanied by members of his cabinet and other people, walks among debris as they visit the El Kilometro 42 community, near Acapulco, Guerrero State, Mexico, after the passage of Hurricane Otis, on October 25, 2023.

"The army is bringing machinery and we're going to try to reopen [the highway] as soon as possible," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said.

With landlines and mobile phone coverage disrupted for more than 24 hours, it took officials until Thursday morning to release the death toll.

"Unfortunately, we have received word from the state and city governments that 27 people are dead and four are missing," Secretary of State for Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez said.

She did not give any details about where or how they had died.

The ministry of defence said 8,000 soldiers had been deployed to Acapulco and towns along the coast to help with the clear-up and provide residents with food and water.

Hurricane Otis made landfall at 00:25 local time (06:25 GMT) on Wednesday. It had intensified from a tropical storm into a category five hurricane - the most severe category - in just 12 hours.

Read: The mystery of why storms suddenly intensify

It brought winds of 165 miles per hour (265km/h) to the coastal areas before easing in strength.

Citlali Portillo, who works in the tourism sector in Acapulco, described to Televisa TV how "the building shook as if there was an earthquake".

Videos showed guests sheltering in bathrooms and other areas without windows so they would not be injured by flying glass as windows were blown in by the wind.

The facade of a shopping centre in Acapulco was also ripped off.

More than 30% of the homes in the state of Guerrero lost power, plunging entire towns into darkness.

And although the strength of the wind subsided relatively quickly as Otis moved inland, Mexico's meteorological service warned that torrential downpours were likely to drench Guerrero, while Michoacan, Mexico state, Morelos and Oaxaca should expect very heavy rain.

The US National Hurricane Center said that the rainfall could "produce flash and urban flooding, along with mudslides in areas of higher terrain".
A street is strewn with debris after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Hurricane Otis turned from mild to monster in record time, and scientists are struggling to figure out how  and why they didnt see it coming. | Marco Ugarte, Associated Press

On Thursday, officials announced that at least 27 people were killed by Hurricane Otis hitting Acapulco, Mexico, early Wednesday and at least four people remain missing.

We regret the 27 dead, said President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico, per NPR. Thats what hurts the most.

The people sheltered, protected themselves and thats why fortunately there werent more tragedies, loss of human life, he said.

Widespread devastation such as flooding and damage from the wind left the area in shambles.

Related

How much damage did Hurricane Otis do?

Acapulco was cut off from the capital of Mexico City as the streets were flooded and caked with mud from the powerful winds and waves from the storm, reported The Associated Press.

More than 1 million residents  about 500,000 homes  were without power as all the telephone and electrical poles in the area were destroyed, per AP.

Residents were also cut off from running water as there were no functioning electrical pumps to move it, reported NPR.

Thousands engaged in looting of food, hygiene products and even refrigerators, as the town was cut off, reported AP.

Obrador said in a Thursday morning news briefing that the damage was so extensive that it was difficult to get aid to residents, per NPR. Officials and rescue workers couldnt clear the land route to the capital until late Wednesday to get much-needed help.

In one video shared by NBC News, Jaime Villaneuva, who was staying at a hotel in the area, showed the hotel's destruction, with blown-out windows and torn-up flooring.

I dont know how we are alive, but we are alive, Villanueva said in the video.

Related

How strong was Hurricane Otis?

It was forecasted to be a tropical storm  not strong enough to be labeled a hurricane, per AP. On Wednesday, a Category 5 storm hit the coast with 165 mph winds as the strongest landfall of any East Pacific hurricane.

How quickly did Hurricane Otis intensify?

In a matter of 12 hours, Hurricane Otis went from what AP called mild to monster.

Its one thing to have a Category 5 hurricane make landfall somewhere when youre expecting it or expecting a strong hurricane, but to have it happen when youre not expecting anything to happen is truly a nightmare, Brian McNoldy, a hurricane researcher at the University of Miami, told AP.

While rapid intensification is becoming more and more common, as seen with Hurricane Idalia and other hurricanes this season, this intensification was different and not anticipated.

Jim Cantore, who is a certified broadcast meteorologist, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he knew it could impact Mexico, but in his 37-plus years hes never seen a rapid intensification like this one.

Never saw it coming, he wrote in the post.

How did Hurricane Otis intensify so fast?

Karthik Balaguru, who is a climate and data scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, told The Washington Post that warm waters created an ideal environment for the storm to intensify quickly.

Balaguru commented that the El Nino weather pattern this year makes for warmer surface waters close to the equator, but that wasnt the only contribution.

It wasnt just warm at the surface, said Balaguru. You had high ocean heat content. Those are definitely favorable conditions for rapid intensification.

Related
A Category 5 hurricane, the most powerful on record to hit Mexicos Pacific coast, slammed into Acapulco early Wednesday, leaving the resort city without power and cut off from road and air access amid devastation that officials were only beginning to assess.

The fast-moving Hurricane Otis made landfall near Acapulco at 12:25 a.m. and tore through the coastal zone with torrential rains and 165 mph winds, shaking structures and tearing roofs off buildings.

There was no immediate word on casualties or an official accounting of the damage as contact with the area was completely lost, a grave President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said at a morning news conference in Mexico City, 235 miles to the northeast of Acapulco.

Relief crews and military aid units were trying to reach Acapulco and smaller towns in Guerrero state, but landslides and debris blocked major highways, airports were shuttered and rivers were raging over their banks.

The National Hurricane Center had warned of a nightmare scenario as Otis bore down on Acapulco, which is home to almost 1 million permanent residents. Many inhabitants reside in precarious cliff-side communities vulnerable to landslides during downpours. Hillside neighborhoods and towns outside Acapulco were also vulnerable.

Otis, fueled by warm offshore waters, rapidly escalated into a Category 5 hurricane, giving authorities and residents relatively little time to brace for its impact.

Experts said the storms surprisingly swift transformation from tropical storm into the most powerful class of hurricane may be another indication of how global warming is shifting weather patterns.

Read more: After Hurricane Ian, a low-lying Florida city starts to rebuild. Should it?

Images circulating on news sites and social media showed vast destruction throughout Acapulco and elsewhere in Guerrero state. Terrified residents and visitors sheltered in homes and hotel rooms as windows shattered, pieces of buildings flew in the air and the citys signature palm trees bowed in the ferocious winds.

Luisa Pena hid in a closet in her hotel room in Acapulco as the ceiling collapsed, the windows blew out and the floors flooded.

I began to pray, to meditate, to try and calm myself although the panic was so great that the only thing I asked for was one more chance, a visibly shaken Pena, her hair blowing wildly, said in a widely circulated video on social media.

Sandra Romandia Vega, a journalist who was taking refuge in a shelter, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, of the brutal clamor as Otis enveloped Acapulco. A roar, a fury that made things fly, chairs, umbrellas, trees, and the echo of devastation.





Read more: Dream interrupted: As gang violence soars in Mexico, migrants in U.S. rethink plans to go home

After the storm moved inland, diminishing to below tropical storm strength but still unleashing heavy rain, images of mayhem emerged from Acapulco. Dazed residents picked their way through streets littered with debris as emergency vehicle lights flashed.

Video of the typically bustling downtown hotel zone showed flattened palm trees, condo towers with their facades sheared off and mangled seaside restaurants. Roads were blocked by battered cars and heaps of twisted metal.

The level of destruction in some of the city's most upscale districts raised concerns about the fate of those in poorer areas, where many reside in simple hillside homes made of cinder block and tin.

Mexico's state electricity provider said the storm knocked out power to more than half a million users. By midday, it said it had restored power to about 40% of them.

Lopez Obrador was en route to the region, accompanied by his defense and naval chiefs in vehicles along the heavily damaged highway. The Mexican president said Otis was stronger than Pauline, the Category 4 hurricane that hit the country's Pacific coast in 1997, killing hundreds and destroying or damaging thousands of homes.

Alarmed about the fate of loved ones in Acapulco, people began posting pictures on social media of relatives and others with whom they had lost contact  asking if anyone knew their whereabouts  as the tortuous communication blackout dragged on.

There have only been drops of information, Sen. Manuel Anorve, a federal senator representing Guerrero state who was in Mexico City when the storm hit, told the Diario 24 Horas news outlet. I havent been able to contact my colleagues in Guerrero, I havent been able to reach my wife, my children, my mother, my siblings, my friends. ... Im very worried.

Daniel Negrete, 33, hasnt heard from his mother, Adriana Esqueda, 64, since the hurricane struck.

She left Mexico City with three relatives on Tuesday to spend six days lounging at the Torre Blanca condominium in Acapulco. As the rain and wind intensified in the early evening, Esqueda called her son and told him that they would shelter in the apartment. A few hours later, she called again to say the weather had gotten worse, and he suggested that they stay far from the apartment's windows.

She said yes, not to worry and that shed let me know in the case of anything, Negrete said.

Their last conversation was just before midnight. He hasnt been able to reach her by phone or text. Negrete, who lives in Mexico City, spent Wednesday posting messages on social media asking people to contact him if they had information about the condo. He wanted to go find her but backtracked after learning about the road damage.

Read more: How many people work for the Mexican drug cartels? Researchers have an answer

All the time youre thinking, what happened, is your family OK, especially my mother, and waiting for news."

Karla Altamira, 40, said she had not heard from her brother, Carlos, 35, since just before the storm hit.

Read more: Razor wire and soldiers fail to deter migrants: 'They say it's easier to get in with kids'

Carlos, a Mexico City resident, was in Acapulco for an international mining conference and staying at a Holiday Inn on the beach. In one of his last voice messages to his family before he lost service, he said his hotel room no longer felt safe, and that hotel administrators had ushered him and other guests into a basement area.

"We have no idea what's going on," Karla said. "It's very frightening.

But she said she didn't blame authorities for a lack of preparation. Nobody knew it would be so strong," she said. "We were all caught off guard."

A day before Otis struck, the storm had been forecast to grow from a tropical storm into a Category 1 hurricane before hitting land. But it gained wind speeds of 115 mph in just 24 hours, said experts, calling it one of the fastest such accelerations on record.

Climate experts said more analysis was necessary to explain exactly how and why the hurricane intensified so quickly, but many agreed that El Nino and human-driven climate change are probably both to blame.

I would expect that all these factors contributed, said Suzana Camargo, a professor at Columbia Universitys Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory.

Read more: Fires, floods, heatwaves. Is the extreme weather from coast to coast 'a new abnormal'?

El Nino, a naturally occurring climate pattern driven by shifts in winds and currents in the Pacific, is active this year, and often leads to more hurricane activity in the region, she said.

But the burning of oil, coal and gas, which expel heat-trapping carbon dioxide in Earth's atmosphere, also probably played a role, she added. Most of that extra heat has been absorbed into the ocean  and warmer waters as well as warmer air add potency to tropical storms.

It is making them stronger, Camargo said.

A recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that Atlantic Ocean hurricanes were now more than twice as likely to strengthen from a Category 1 into a Category 3 hurricane during a 24-hour period than during the 1970s and 1980s.

Read more: How climate scientists feel about seeing their dire predictions come true

"While it would take specific research and additional analyses to tie Hurricane Otis directly to climate change, we do know that warmer ocean temperatures can support the strengthening of a storm like Otis, said Andra Garner, an author of the recent study and an assistant professor at Rowan University in New Jersey.

A warmer climate really stacks the deck against us, if you want to think of it that way, Garner added. It makes it more likely and more possible for storms like Otis to occur.

Times special correspondent Cecilia Sanchez Vidal in Mexico City, contributed to this report.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
More than a month after the body of a missing Oklahoma mother was found wrapped in carpet, her husband has been arrested, authorities say.

Frank Byers, who said he was innocent in a Facebook post weeks before his arrest, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of Makayla Fay Meave-Byers, according to the Pottawatomie County Sheriffs Office.

Meave-Byers was last seen alive Sept. 15 leaving her home in the town of Macomb, the sheriffs office said. She got into a pickup truck being driven by a balding and bearded man, deputies said.

Five days later, the sheriffs office said her body was found wrapped in carpet and hidden inside a culvert, McClatchy News reported in September.

In an exclusive interview with KOKH, Byers said he and his wife were in an open marriage. He told the station she left to go on a date with another man.

Evidence eventually tied Byers to his wifes death. His work boots had a blood-like substance on them, which came back as a positive DNA match to Meave-Byers, according to court records obtained by KFOR.

Investigators believe Byers killed Meave-Byers so he could begin a relationship with another woman, KFOR reported, citing the court records.

Meave-Byers was shot twice in the head, according to an arrest warrant obtained by KOTV. Byers is then accused of placing her body in the culvert about 2,000 feet away from her home.

The sheriffs office announced Wednesday, Oct. 25, it had arrested Byers on the murder charge. He also faces charges of unauthorized removal of a dead body and desecration of a human corpse.

Its a little bit of a sigh of relief, Barbara Harper, Meave-Byers mother, told KFOR. To us, it feels like its been 10 years even though its just been a few weeks.

Harper told the station she never thought her son-in-law would do something like this. She said she hopes Byers receives the death penalty.

Three weeks before he was arrested, Byers said in a Facebook post he had been receiving death threats.

Im tired of the threats. Im tired of the harassment, he said in the Oct. 4 post. Im right here and Im not going anywhere. Because I am innocent, and everything will come out.

Meave-Byers was an adopted mother to two children and a stepmom to four young girls, according to a GoFundMe.

She was described as a vibrant soul who loved music and singing, an obituary says. She worked within Macomb Public Schools and was involved in the after-school program.

She was always the person to walk up to anybody with open arms and give them a hug, even if she didnt know you, family friend Annie Gonzales told KOKH.

Macomb is about 50 miles southeast of Oklahoma City.
Rafael Mariano Grossi, the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has expressed concerns regarding the security and safety of nuclear facilities following a recent attack on Khmelnytskyi Oblast on Oct. 25 that damaged buildings adjacent to the region's nuclear power plant.

In a statement issued by the IAEA, Grossi emphasized the fragile state of nuclear safety, warning that the attack "underlines the extremely precarious nuclear safety situation in Ukraine."

The IAEA confirmed that there was no direct impact on the operations of the nuclear power plant from the attack, and that the blasts did not affect the site's connection to the national electricity grid.

Moscow has previously admitted to targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure as one of its primary objectives. At the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, the IAEA has observed previously reported anti-personnel mines in the facility.

Ukrainian officials have expressed concerns that Russia might escalate its attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure during the upcoming fall and winter months.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian drone strike likely targeted Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, Zelensky says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ice Spice , also known as Isis Naija Gaston, is a rising star in rap music. Her ascent to stardom came about when her viral TikTok sensation, Much (Feelin U), gained immense popularity on the platform in 2022. The track was also featured simultaneously on the top 10 of the Billboard Top Rap Songs chart and top 40 on the Billboard 200. Despite her growing international fame, she remains deeply connected to her roots in the Bronx, New York, where she was born in 2000 to parents, Charina Almanzar and Joseph Gaston. Spice, who comes from a Dominican and Nigerian heritage, has mentioned that her parents are huge supporters of her career and served as a profound influence in her life.

Ice Spices Early Career

At the age of seven, Ice Spice developed a fondness for hip-hop, embracing a diverse musical palette that included Latin artists like Aventura and hip-hop icons such as Jay-Z, Wu-Tang Clan, and Jadakiss. She also drew inspiration from prominent female rappers like Nicki Minaj, incorporating elements of their music styles into her songwriting. Her passion for freestyle and poetry continued to flourish throughout her high school years at Sacred Heart High School in Yonkers, New York. It was during this time that she adopted the stage name Ice Spice, with Ice being a shortened version of her first name, Isis.

In 2021, Ice Spice embarked on her rap career while pursuing a degree in communication at SUNY Purchase. Since her debut, shes delivered tracks like Deli, Princess Diana and Like..? Notably, the rapper has joined forces with renowned artists including Nicki Minaj, PinkPantheress, and Taylor Swift. She is still on the rise within the rap music industry. With such success already under her belt and a clear fondness for her heritage, it begs the question: Who are Ice Spices parents?

Who Is Ice Spices Mom?

Charina Almanzar, an American with Dominican heritage, currently resides in New Jersey. At the age of 17, she became a mother when Ice Spice was born. Throughout her daughters journey, Almanzar has consistently been her most notable supporter. She met Spices dad at a McDonalds chain in New York, however, the two separated when she was just 2 years old.

The bond between mother and daughter is clearly evident by their joint appearances at various events, and in a world where family plays a pivotal role in an artists life, Charina Almanzar has provided unwavering support and love for Spice. She even serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement for the star. The two were captured in a photograph together back in 2021 at an event, which eventually went viral due to their startling resemblance. Moreover, Almanzar recently gained widespread attention as she was seen enjoying one of her daughters songs. This sparked a surge of interest from fans who flocked to Instagram in search of more videos featuring her.

Who Is Ice Spices Dad?

Joseph Gaston, Ice Spices father, is African-American with Nigerian roots. He, himself, has made significant contributions to the world of rap music. As an underground rapper, Gastons early exposure to the hip-hop scene allowed him to share his passion and knowledge with his daughter. His influence on her journey has been unwavering, as he introduced her to the intricacies of the recording studio when she was just a toddler. Moreover, Gastons guidance and support have played a crucial role in shaping Ice Spices career and artistic development, with his impact going beyond the music realm.

Both Almanzar and Gaston continue to be integral parts of their daughters life and career. As she continues to skyrocket in the music industry, their support and grounding will be all the more instrumental for her.
Bryan Kohbergers defense team will attempt to convince an Idaho judge to throw out the quadruple murder indictment against him in a pair of hearings Thursday.

The 28-year-old with a master's degree in criminal justice is accused of butchering four University of Idaho students in a 4 a.m. home invasion attack days before Thanksgiving last year.

Pennsylvania police arrested Kohberger at his parents' house in the Poconos roughly seven weeks after the massacre. But in August, Kohbergers defense team alleged grand jury bias, "inadmissible" and insufficient evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct.

Its a routine move but rarely successful, experts tell Fox News Digital.

BRYAN KOHBERGER SECRETLY ALLEGES 24 FLAWS IN IDAHO MURDERS INDICTMENT IN LATEST MOTION TO DISMISS

"The motion to dismiss is a move that every defense attorney makes prior to trial," David Gelman, a Philadelphia-area criminal defense attorney and former prosecutor, told Fox News Digital. "If an attorney doesnt make this motion, regardless if it has merit or not, they are pretty much committing malpractice."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In this case, legal experts say Kohbergers arguments are a stretch.

"The defense motion raises meritless arguments and has no chance of success." Neama Rahmani, a Los Angeles-based trial lawyer and former federal prosecutor, told Fox News Digital.

In addition to the shortcomings in Kohbergers argument, he said, prosecutors have a pile of both direct and circumstantial evidence to prove probable cause.

"This is a Hail Mary attempt by the defense attorneys and an effort to create more appellate issues if Kohberger is convicted and sentenced to death," he said.

Judge John Judge will oversee two hearings on Thursday, one behind closed doors to address the grand jury allegations, which must be kept secret, and a public hearing will follow on Kohbergers other claims. Experts dont expect the defense to succeed at either.

"They will have to present real, concrete evidence to the judge that there is a legitimate challenge to the grand jury that was empaneled and the actual grand jury proceedings," said Edwina Elcox, a Boise defense attorney who previously represented "Cult Mom" Lori Vallow. "Legal conjecture and theory will not suffice."

Even if the defense does succeed, she said the case wouldnt go away.

JUDGE SETS LIFE-OR-DEATH DEADLINES IN BRYAN KOHBERGER STUDENT MURDERS TRIAL

Prosecutors would still have a chance to convince a judge at a preliminary hearing or secure a new indictment.

"The defense is hanging on anything they possibly can," Gelman said. "A grand jury can indict a ham sandwich. All the prosecutor needs to show is their facts. The defense does not have an opportunity to present anything, which is why it is so easy to indict someone."

Police have identified the student victims as Kaylee Goncalves, 21, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20 and Ethan Chapin, 20.

All four had been stabbed multiple times. Some were asleep at the start of the massacre. Investigators say there was a knife sheath with Kohberger's DNA on it under Mogen's body.

Bryan Kohberger and his alleged victims, clockwise from top left, Madison Mogen, Ethan Chapin, Xana Kernodle and Kaylee Goncalves.

Kohberger, who attended the neighboring Washington State University in pursuit of a Ph.D. in criminology, drove a white Hyundai Elantra, the same type of car investigators identified as the suspect vehicle, and allegedly turned his phone off before heading to and from the crime scene, according to the affidavit.

Police, citing phone records, also alleged that he stalked the victims' home on a dozen occasions before the murders and drove by once more hours afterward.

The judge entered not guilty pleas on Kohberger's behalf at his arraignment in May. Kohberger previously said, through a public defender when he was arrested in Pennsylvania, that he looked forward to being exonerated.

He faces four charges of first-degree murder and a felony burglary count. If he is convicted, the maximum penalty could be death  possibly by firing squad.





Original article source:Idaho student murders suspect Bryan Kohbergers lawyers to argue bold legal move
LAKE COUNTY, Ind. - An Illinois man was sentenced this week to nearly 50 years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for firing multiple shots at police last year.

Oscar Martinez, 22, was convicted of three counts of attempted murder of a peace officer in July.

According to prosecutors, in June 2022, North Chicago police received a report of shots fired at a residence in Lake County. When officers arrived, they located Martinez outside the residence holding a firearm.

Officers ordered Martinez to put the firearm down, but instead, he began firing shots at officers. He then attempted to flee the area, but officers were able to take him into custody shortly after, prosecutors said.

No officers were injured during the incident.

A judge announced Martinez's 49-year prison sentence Wednesday.

"This offender risked the lives of police officers and members of that community. With this sentence, he will no longer be a threat to others. Once again, I want to thank our outstanding trial team and the brave officers who serve our community every day," said States Attorney Rinehart.

Martinez received 486 days of time served credit and his sentence is to be served at 85 percent.
The author traveled in business class on Canada's Via Rail train from Toronto to Montreal. Joey Hadden/Insider

I booked a business-class ticket on a Via Rail Canada train from Toronto to Montreal in 2022.

For $200, I sat in a business-class seat with two tables and complimentary meal and drink service.

I thought it was nicer than most US trains I've been on, worth the price, and I'd gladly ride again.

I've spent more than 100 hours on trains in the last two years, from 30-hour overnight rides to quick three-hour journeys.

I've taken trains along the East Coast of the US, into the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Quebec, and between the European countries of Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland. Along the way, I've tried out a wide range of seating options, from business and first classes to shared bunks and private rooms.

In August of 2022, I spent six hours traveling in business class from Toronto to Montreal on Canada's Via Rail train line. It was my first time using Via Rail, and I was surprised by all the offerings of business class, from comfy seats to snacks and meals.

Last year, I spent six hours in business class on a Canadian Via Rail train from Toronto to Montreal. I thought it was totally worth the $200 ticket.

The author sits in business class on a Montreal-bound train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Before that, I'd spent 85 hours on Amtrak trains going up and down the East Coast, reviewing its various accommodations from business and first class to private rooms in sleeper cars. But this was my first time trying Via Rail, Canada's main railroad system.

Insider's reporter has traveled across the east coast on several different Amtrak trains in upgraded cabins. Joey Hadden/Insider

Read more: I spent $1,000 to have a room to myself on a 30-hour Amtrak ride. It was the best experience I've ever had on an overnight train.

Similar to Amtrak, Via Rail is one of the most accessible and popular ways to travel by train in Canada. It serves more than 400 stations in eight provinces across Canada with economy seating, business class, and sleeper accommodation, according to its website.

A Via Rail train at Union Station in Toronto. Joey Hadden/Insider

Source: Via Rail

My journey began at Toronto's Union Station. I arrived at 7 a.m. for my 8:30 a.m. train to Montreal.

Union Station on a cloudy morning. Joey Hadden/Insider

I arrived early because I knew my business-class ticket came with access to an exclusive lounge at the station with plenty of seating and free refreshments.

A look at the refreshments offered in the lounge. Joey Hadden/Insider

The lounge was mostly empty on a Friday morning. I thought it was a quiet and peaceful place to enjoy a coffee and get some work done. Amtrak has lounges at select stations too, but they're only free to access for first-class passengers.

A seating area in Union Station's Via Rail lounge. Joey Hadden/Insider

According to its website, Via Rail's lounges are available to passengers traveling in business class, sleeper plus, prestige, and VIA Rail Premier members traveling in economy.

A look inside the lounge. Joey Hadden/Insider

Around 8 a.m., I made my way to the track where my train was boarding. My business-class ticket came with priority boarding, so I was able to skip a long line of passengers.

People wait in line to board the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

I headed straight to the train car dedicated to business class.

The business-class car on a Via Rail train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Read more: I booked the wrong room on a sleeper train and it was the biggest mistake of my 2-week backpacking trip through Europe

When I got to my assigned single seat, I was surprised to find that I had a side table in addition to a tray table that pulled out in front of me, since no train I've ever been on in the US has offered two tables per passenger.

The author's seat on the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Read more: I've spent 100 hours on trains in the US, Canada, and Europe. I found that trains abroad are more comfortable.

Throughout the trip, I used the side table to hold my coffee while working, and to store my laptop while taking work breaks.

The author's side table on the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Beneath the side table was a conveniently placed outlet for charging devices.

An outlet beneath the table. Joey Hadden/Insider

Right away, I thought that my Via Rail seat was one of the most comfortable I've ever experienced on a train. The Toronto Star reported that Via Rail business-class seats are 18.5 inches wide with a 39-inch seat pitch. An Amtrak representative told Insider that their business-class seats are about an inch wider with an additional three inches of legroom, but I don't think they're nearly as comfortable.

Seats in Via Rail's business class. Joey Hadden/Insider

Source: Toronto Star

Unlike Amtrak seats I've sat in, the top of my Via Rail seat was curved, so I was able to rest my head in a comfortable position for lounging.

The author relaxes in business class. Joey Hadden/Insider

The seats reclined, too, just like in the US. This made them even more comfortable.

Via Rail seats recline. Joey Hadden/Insider

I also noticed that, unlike on my rides with Amtrak, Via Rail's seat back compartments held a safety pamphlet with directions for what to do in an emergency situation. I found this comforting.

An emergency plan for evacuating the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

The train started moving right on time at 8:32 a.m. I settled into the ride by editing photos for work.

The author gets to work as the train departs. Joey Hadden/Insider

Shortly after leaving, a train attendant came around with complimentary drink service. I ordered a coffee.

The author enjoys a coffee while taking notes. Joey Hadden/Insider

Then it was time for breakfast. Unlike Amtrak's business-class fares, Via Rail's ticket comes with complimentary meals brought to my seat. The train served a warm bagel with cream cheese. It was no New York bagel, I thought, but it was decent and filled me up.

The author's breakfast. Joey Hadden/Insider

An hour later, an attendant came back around with savory snack packs filled with nuts, pretzels, and crackers.

A salty snack on the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Just before lunch, train attendants came around again with warm hand wipes, which I thought was a nice touch.

A packaged warm wipe. Joey Hadden/Insider

Lunch was another business-class perk, which I hoped for since the ride was six hours long. The menu was announced over the loudspeaker. The entree choices were trout, chicken, or pasta.

The author's view from her train seat. Joey Hadden/Insider

I went with the pasta. It was a rigatoni dish with sides of corn salad, bread, and carrot bread for dessert. The meal was better than I expected with an al dente cook on the pasta. I also thought it was much better than the pasta I've tried on Amtrak trains.

The author's meal. Joey Hadden/Insider

After lunch, I went to the bathroom and was impressed by how clean it was compared to most train bathrooms I've used.

The author uses the bathroom on the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Due to some delays at stops along the way, the train arrived in Montreal about an hour later than scheduled at 2:30 p.m. While I thought this was frustrating, at least I was comfortable.

The inside of the business-class train car. Joey Hadden/Insider

This 6-hour business-class ride cost $200, while a recent 10-hour Amtrak business-class ride cost $163. Although it was more expensive, I think the Via Rail ride was worth the additional cost since I found it to be so comfortable.

The author enjoys her carrot bread on the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Even though we were late, I found business-class train travel to be more comfortable and pleasant in Canada than I typically do in the US. Now I want to explore more of Canada by train.

The author in front of the train. Joey Hadden/Insider

Read more: I traveled first-class on an Amtrak Acela train and thought the perks were cool  but not worth the $270 price tag

Read the original article on Insider
A press briefing on the upcoming third World Health Forum is held at Tsinghua University in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo courtesy of Tsinghua University]

The third World Health Forum (WHF) is set to take place from Nov. 4 to 5 at Tsinghua University in Beijing, according to a press briefing held on Wednesday. The forum will be hosted by Tsinghua University and co-organized by the Tsinghua Vanke School of Public Health (VSPH) and the Tsinghua Institute for a Healthy China .

Themed "Preparing the World for the Next Pandemic," this year's forum aims to summarize the experience of pandemic responses and innovate strategies to improve global public health systems. It is also expected to bolster basic and applied research on major infectious diseases, providing strong scientific and technological support to public health.

Margaret Chan, founding dean of the VSPH and chairperson of the WHF, noted at the briefing that in a post-epidemic era marked by challenges from climate change, accelerated urbanization, and growing global economic downside risks, all countries should reflect on previous experience, build consensus, and enhance readiness. This approach is a sure way to manage future potential pandemics decisively, fairly, and effectively.

Liang Wannian, executive vice dean of the VSPH and secretary-general of the WHF, provided an overview of the preparations for the forthcoming WHF. He said that the forum will encompass an opening ceremony, a general conference, three sub-forums, a youth forum, and a closing ceremony.

Specifically, the three sub-forums will focus on the topics of readiness for possible future pandemics, response to pandemics and social engagement, and technological empowerment coupled with global health governance.

During the Q&A session, speakers addressed questions regarding China's experience and insight into pandemic response and the training of interdisciplinary public health personnel.

Initiated by Tsinghua University in 2021, the WHF aims to bolster international cooperation and facilitate the exchange of expertise in tackling critical public health challenges.
I live in New York City and visited Atlanta, Georgia, for the first time.

I didn't know Piedmont Park looks like Central Park or that pride celebrations are held in October.

I also tried my first grits and was surprised to see Waffle House chains everywhere.

I grew up in the Midwest, but New York City has been my home for the past decade.

In October, I visited Atlanta, Georgia, for the first time to see friends who have moved there from New York over the past few years.

With its gorgeous public parks, plentiful museums, and apartments with in-unit laundry, I definitely saw the appeal of living in Atlanta. I also made a few surprising discoveries about the city during my five days there.

Here are seven things that surprised me about Atlanta during my first visit.

There's a reason why Piedmont Park in Atlanta reminded me of New York City's Central Park: both were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Piedmont Park in Atlanta, Georgia. Coren Feldman

Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted co-designed and built both Central Park in New York City and Piedmont Park in Atlanta in the late 1800s, according to Piedmont Park's official website.

Spanning over 180 acres, Piedmont Park's winding paths, open fields, and views of towering skyscrapers felt just like Central Park to me. It's no wonder that the park has been used as a Central Park look-alike in movies such as "Avengers: Infinity War."

I saw signs prohibiting guns and knives outside of the Atlanta museums I visited, which I haven't seen in New York City.

A sign prohibiting guns and knives outside of a museum in Atlanta. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Georgia passed a permitless carry law in 2022, allowing people over the age of 21 to carry concealed firearms without a license as long as they have no criminal history and follow posted signage, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

It's not a predominantly Southern policy, but as someone who grew up in Wisconsin and now lives in New York, I've never lived in a state with these gun laws. I hadn't anticipated seeing signs prohibiting guns and knives at the entrances to all of the museums I visited during my stay.

Atlanta holds its LGBTQ+ pride celebrations in October instead of June.

An LGBTQ+ pride display in Atlanta, Georgia. Talia Lakritz/Insider

I visited Atlanta in October during its LGBTQ+ pride weekend, which I hadn't expected since June is nationally recognized as LGBTQ+ Pride Month in commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising.

Atlanta's pride celebrations first moved to October in 2008, when an extreme drought led officials to cancel Atlanta Pride festivities due to concerns about irreversible damage to the grass in Piedmont Park, The Georgia Voice reported. The change stuck, and Atlanta Pride was permanently moved to correspond with National Coming Out Day on October 11.

An Atlanta local who has been involved in planning the city's pride celebrations told me that people welcomed the change because the weather for outdoor parades and festivals would be more temperate in October compared to Georgia's famously muggy summers.

My friends who live in Atlanta told me that most people rarely use the MARTA transit system unless they're going to or from the airport.

A MARTA train station in Atlanta, Georgia. Talia Lakritz/Insider

MARTA is the eighth-largest transit system in the US, with people taking 488,000 trips every day, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported in 2022. Coming from New York City, I assumed Atlanta's public transit system was similar to the subway in that most people take it but some opt to own cars.

However, the Atlanta Business Chronicle reported in January that ridership has declined 60% in the last decade, with concerns around the COVID-19 pandemic driving more vehicle sales. Delayed MARTA expansion projects have also resulted in a system that doesn't service many residential areas.

When I asked my friends who live there, they all told me that most residents drive everywhere and rarely use the MARTA buses and trains. I ended up renting a car for my trip, and I was grateful that I didn't have to walk long distances to transit stations from their apartments.

Traffic wasn't as bad as I expected, but I was surprised by the width of Atlanta's highways.

Driving on the highway in Atlanta, Georgia. Coren Feldman

During my five days in Atlanta, multiple people commented on how bad the city's traffic is known to be. Coming from New York City, where crowded streets can result in hours of gridlock, I didn't think it was that bad. Even while driving to Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson airport at rush hour, traffic only stood still a few times and kept moving, for the most part.

However, I hadn't expected the highways in Atlanta to be so wide, featuring as many as six lanes.

I didn't know what grits were before I visited Atlanta, but I thought they were delicious.

Cheesy grits. Talia Lakritz/Insider

An Atlanta local encouraged me to try grits, a Southern breakfast staple made from ground corn, while we were out at brunch. I'd never had them before, but I imagined that they would taste something like oatmeal.

I was surprised by the rich, creamy flavor of cheesy grits. While I've occasionally seem them on brunch menus in New York City, I found myself wishing they were more readily available outside the South.

Waffle House chains were everywhere.

A Waffle House location in Atlanta, Georgia. Talia Lakritz/Insider

Waffle House has a few locations in Pennsylvania, but it is mostly located in Southern states like Georgia, Kentucky, Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Florida.

I was surprised by how many Waffle House chains I saw as I drove around Atlanta, the New York City equivalent of a Starbucks every few blocks.

Read the original article on Insider
The leader of a Mexican megachurch with branches in the Los Angeles area was indicted on federal charges for producing and possessing child pornography.

Naason Joaquin Garcia, 54, was indicted on Wednesday and is expected to be arraigned at the U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles in the coming weeks.

The leader of the Mexico-based La Luz del Mundo megachurch, Garcia had served as a minister in Santa Ana before leading the church in Mexico.

Garcia made international headlines when he was arrested at LAX on June 3, 2019 on allegations of child exploitation.

This latest filing alleges that he produced and possessed child sexual abuse material involving a 16-year-old victim.

Court documents state that Garcia knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced the minor victim to make at least five sexually explicit videos, which were found on his iPad when he was arrested at LAX.

He has remained in state custody since his arrest and has previously admitted to previous sexual abuse of a child, including two counts of forcible oral copulation and one count of committing a lewd act.

He is currently serving a 17-year prison sentence for those crimes at the California Institution for Men in Chino. If convicted on these new charges, Garcia would face a minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison with the possibility of 30 to 40 years.

The case is being investigated by the FBI and the California Department of Justices Bureau of Investigation.

Faithful take part in the 2018 annual holy convocation of La Luz del Mundo church on Aug. 14, 2018, in Guadalajara, Mexico, where its headquarters are located. (Ulises Ruiz / AFP / Getty Images)

Despite his convictions and current prison sentence, followers of La Luz del Mundo (The Light of the World) have remained loyal to Garcia, with many saying his imprisonment has only strengthened the church.

In September 2022, Garcia, calling from prison, addressed his followers at the churchs main temple in Guadalajara during its most important holiday.

Some former members have filed lawsuits against the church, alleging they were victim to horrific sexual abuse.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
An NYPD patrol car is parked outside a synagogue on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say theyve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

The Anti-Defamation League and the Council on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public.

A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wednesday that the organization's chapters and national office had received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The council's leaders believe it's the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernadino mass shooting that left 14 people dead.

The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boy's mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians.

Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiraling out of control, said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

Saylor noted that former President George W. Bush's visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza.

The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism reported in a statement Wednesday that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23  compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, You are Jewish.

The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism found to be explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel, according to the statement.

Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel, but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land.

The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances.

"It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism, Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement.

Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022.

___

The story has been updated to correct name of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in two instances.

___

Associated Press reporter Noreen Nasir in New York contributed to this report.
European judges have rejected a bid by the parents of a critically ill baby to have her life-support treatment continued.

Earlier this month, a High Court judge ruled doctors could withdraw support for Indi Gregory, who has mitochondrial disease, against her parents' wishes.

They challenged the ruling but their case was dismissed by Court of Appeal judges on Monday.

Now an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has failed.

Indi's parents Dean Gregory and Claire Staniforth - from Ilkeston in Derbyshire - are being supported by the Christian Legal Centre (CLC), which said they had asked a European judge to "prohibit" the withdrawal of "life-sustaining treatment" until the ECHR had considered the case.

However, in a document seen by the BBC, the ECHR said it would not prohibit the withdrawal of life support and its decision could not be appealed against.

In a statement issued by the CLC, Mr Gregory said: "As a father and parent, I was willing to do everything I could to save my daughter's life from inhumane decisions and people trying to play god.

"To us she is everything and we will do everything we can to help until the end as it is our duty as parents to protect her."

Mitochondrial disease prevents cells in the body producing energy and the NHS says the condition is incurable.

Medics at Nottingham's Queen's Medical Centre have said they can do no more for Indi.

Barrister Emma Sutton KC, who led Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust's legal team, previously said the treatment Indi received caused pain and was futile.

NUH's medical director Dr Keith Girling said: "Cases like this are incredibly difficult for everyone and our thoughts are with Indi's parents.

"Today's decision by the European Court of Human Rights concludes what has been a very difficult process.

"Our priority now is to provide the best possible care to Indi and to support her parents during this difficult time."

Follow BBC East Midlands on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk.
LAKE COUNTY, Ind. - A northwest Indiana man was arrested this week after police allegedly confiscated drugs and guns from his home.

On Wednesday, the Lake County Drug Task Force and Lake County Sheriff's Department SWAT team executed a narcotics search warrant at a home in St. John, Indiana for an investigation into the sale of cocaine, authorities said.

At the home, Ricky Biggs, 48, was allegedly found in the basement bathroom flushing suspected evidence down the toilet. Additionally, officers confiscated 120 suspected ecstasy pills, approximately 8.5 pounds of marijuana and two handguns at the residence.

Biggs was arrested at the time and could face multiple charges related to possession of dealing narcotic drugs.

In 2012, Biggs was sentenced to six-and-a-half years in prison for possessing more than five grams of cocaine with the intent to distribute it. He was accused of dealing large quantities of cocaine out of his business in Gary, authorities said.
Infrastructure Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov denied reports that Ukraines temporary grain corridor in the Black Sea had stopped operations on Oct. 26.



The information regarding the cancellation or unscheduled stoppage of the temporary Ukrainian corridor for the movement of civilian vessels from and to the ports of the Big Odesa (Oblast) is false, the minister wrote on X (formerly Twitter).



All available routes established by the Ukrainian Navy are valid and being used by civilian vessels.



Earlier on Oct. 26, the Barva Invest consultancy firm, specializing in the Ukrainian grain and oilseeds market, reported that the Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority (USPA) announced the suspension of the corridor effective from Oct. 26 due to increased Russian aviation activity.



Vessels have been using the Ukrainian corridor since Sept. 16 following the collapse of the Black Sea Grain Initiative in July after Russia pulled out.



The corridor has been showing signs of success even without Russias agreement. Thirty-three ships have exported 1.3 million metric tons of agricultural products and other goods since its inception, Kubrakov noted.



Currently, 23 ships are loading at the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdennyi.

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So far the temporary corridor has not reached the levels of the grain initiative but Deputy Head of the Agrarian Council Denys Marchuk said it could eventually export 2-2.5 million tons per month.



Rather than sailing directly to the Bosphorus Strait through international waters, ships hug the coastlines of Ukraine and NATO members Romania and Bulgaria with assistance from the Ukrainian navy.



However, the threat from Russia remains and many ship owners are hesitant to travel the route.

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced last week in a televised address that Russian jets armed with Kinzhal ballistic missiles will permanently patrol the Black Sea.



Currently, the Danube River ports see the highest throughput, exporting 2.3 million metric tons last month, according to Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi.



The minister said that Ukraine needs to export 6 million tons per month as grain piles up in the country amid export issues.

Read also: Ukrainian farmers sow 4.5 million hectares of winter crops but volumes expected to drop by 20%

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Gabriella Borter and Brad Brooks

LEWISTON, Maine (Reuters) - Dr. Richard King was driving home from the Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday night when he received an urgent call from a fellow trauma surgeon alerting him that victims of a mass casualty event were flooding the hospital.

King, the trauma medical director, immediately turned around and sped through Lewiston's streets with his hazard lights flashing, arriving to discover what he later described in an interview as a nightmarish scene. The emergency room was overflowing with wounded and bleeding patients, casualties of the latest mass shooting to hit an American city.

Within minutes, King went to work performing a "damage control" surgery on one gunshot victim to stop their bleeding and save their life before hustling into a different operating room to begin work on another.

"It was a situation of organized chaos," King said. "It was really quite surreal. We read about these events all too frequently, and then to be a part of one ..."

The staff of Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday joined a growing list of fellow doctors, nurses, orderlies and technicians working in cities from Colorado Springs, Colorado to Highland Park, Illinois and El Paso, Texas, who have seen their hospitals upended by incessant mass shootings in recent years.

King told Reuters by phone from inside the heavily guarded hospital that the 250-bed medical center had never seen anything resembling the fallout from the Lewiston shooting, which left 18 people dead and more than a dozen wounded.

Lewiston, a former textile hub, is home to only about 38,000 people, but still stands as the second largest city in Maine, the state ranked by the FBI as the least violent in the nation.

The number of those killed on Wednesday was only slightly below the average number of homicides in Maine for an entire year.

But King said the medical center's staff has undergone mass casualty event training and that it felt like "the entire hospital" rushed into the facility to help out. Eight shooting victims, including five who are stable and three in critical condition, remained in the hospital on Thursday.

"We really just did what we would normally do, just at maximum capacity and with maximum effort," King said. "It was inspiring to see how all our staff responded, how everybody stepped up to the plate."

While there is one on-call after hours surgeon, upward of 30 surgeons were on site within minutes of the first ambulances arriving at the hospital, King said.

As one victim after another was rushed into the emergency room - more than a dozen gunshot victims eventually arrived - doctors grew concerned that the medical center's blood supply would not hold out. That forced King and other surgeons to do everything medically possible to stem the loss of blood among patients.

Supplies held out, King said, in large part due to work by the medical center's trauma program manager, Tammy Lachance, to quickly secure extra blood from nearby hospitals.

In the aftermath of the shooting, King said the most difficult thing for him and other staff members, some of whom had family and loved ones who were killed, is coming to terms with the loss of life and tragedy that befell Lewiston, especially as the adrenaline of treating victims wears off.

With the shooter still at large on Thursday, law enforcement officers outside the hospital carrying long guns and wearing bulletproof vests were seen guarding entrances and keeping onlookers away.

"This is a close-knit community. Maine is fairly small, everybody knows everybody to some extent," King said. "This shooting hits really hard in a city like Lewiston and a state like Maine."

(Reporting by Gabriella Borter in Lewiston and Brad Brooks in Longmont, Colorado; editing by Paul Thomasch and Bill Berkrot)
Florida's First Judicial Circuit, which covers Escambia, Santa Rosa, Okaloosa and Walton counties, have been dealing with a cybersecurity breach in their administrative system since early October.

After Chief Judge John Miller confirmed personal data had been breached in the attack, the News Journal obtained an internal email that says law enforcement confirmed the attack compromised employee tax forms and other sensitive documents.

"One of our employees discovered that her W-4 form, and another employee's W-4 form, were on the 'dark web,'" the internal email states. "A photo of another employee's driver's license is on the dark web, along with a Peoples First ID number."

People First is Florida's online web-based human resources information system, according to the Department of Management Services.

ALPHV ransomware group may be to blame: First Circuit chief judge confirms personal data was breached in courthouse cyberattack

The email also says that Okaloosa County's confidential phone list was published, which houses the judges' personal cell phone numbers. Two employees have reported fraudulent credit card charges and another reported their personal email had been hacked, but the court email says they have not been confirmed to be a result of the cyberattack.

"Quite frankly, at this point, we just do not know the extent of the information obtained," the email says. "We are in the process of trying to obtain a list of employee names whose information might have been compromised directly from (Florida Department of Law Enforcement), because any other sources may or may not be legitimate."

What happened to the court system?

On Oct. 2, Escambia Trial Court Administrator Kasey Watson sent out a press release saying the First Judicial Circuit experienced an "information technology security event," impacting administrative court operations throughout the four-county area.

In a release on Oct. 9, Watson said the circuit is coordinating with law enforcement and external cybersecurity experts.

Escambia County Clerk and Comptroller Pam Childers told the News Journal that the local administrative structure, which is tied to the Florida Supreme Court's Office of the State Courts Administrator, was breached during the incident.

According to the Florida Courts website, OSCA was created in 1972 to serve the state's chief justice and carry out the justice's responsibilities as chief administrative officer, including the 20 circuit courts throughout the state. Each circuit has a local administrative structure that is presided over by that circuit's chief judge.

Who hacked the First Judicial Circuit?

The First Judicial Circuit has not confirmed the person or entity that hacked their system, but the communications team for global cybersecurity company Heimdal Security, which provides cloud-based cybersecurity solutions, reported that the ALPHV/BlackCat ransomware group claimed responsibility for the attack on its data leak page.

The ransomware group claims to have access to Social Security numbers of employees and a detailed map of the court's systems. Access to employee W-4 forms could give hackers access to an employee's first and last name, their Social Security number and their address.

Miller could not confirm or deny whether ALPHV/BlackCat caused the attack.

Court announces attack: NWFL courts investigating if personal information was breached in IT 'security event'

What is the ALPHV/BlackCat ransomware group?

The ALPHV group is thought to be a rebranding of the DarkSide/BlackMatter ransomware group that rose to global prominence after its cyber attack of Colonial Pipeline in 2021, according to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

In April 2022, IC3 reported that ALPHV/BlackCat was the first ransomware group to successfully compromise 60 entities worldwide using the programming language RUST.

The group typically leverages previously compromised user credentials to gain initial access to victim systems, according to IC3, and infect it with malware.

Once the malware is in place, it will configure "malicious Group Policy Objects" to deploy ransomware throughout the system, disabling security features.

What is a ransomware attack?

According to Elizabeth Rasnick, associate professor with UWF's Center for Cybersecurity, a ransomware attack is when a person gains access to a system's data and then encrypts it to lock out the owner of the system and data.

"In order for (the system owner) to get access back, they would have to pay a ransom," she told the News Journal. "There's some type of ransom note, usually an email, that says, 'Hey, we've locked down your data, and it's going to cost this much to get it back.'"

Outside of paying the ransom, Rasnick says system owners could restore their data if they have a backup stored. If they don't have a backup, they must either go through the painstaking process of "piecemealing" the data together from outside sources or beginning from scratch.

Miller could not confirm or deny to the News Journal whether the courts have a backup system in place.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: Escambia court memo says court hackers obtained employee tax forms
Unilever, one of the world's leaders on the food and household chemicals market, has decided to continue doing business in Russia. Its 3rd quarter financial report does not contain any action plan for quitting Russia.

Source: the B4Ukraine organisation with reference to the conglomerates report for the 3rd quarter of 2023

Quote: "Today, British conglomerate Unilever, which recently came under heavy media and public pressure due to its Russia business, announced its 3rd quarter financial results. The maker of Cornetto ice-cream and Dove soap defended its position to remain in Russia by referring to "containment actions" taken to "minimise Unilevers contribution to the Russian state."

While the nature of such "containment actions" remains unknown, it is crystal clear that after more than 600 days since Russias illegal invasion of Ukraine there is an acute need for bold action."

B4Ukraine stressed that Unilever has seen good financial results and "new action plan to drive its growth and unlock potential," yet there's no action plan to exit Russia and revive Unilevers tarnished reputation.

"Every multinational business remaining in the aggressor state is contributing to human rights abuses in Ukraine  either indirectly, by making tax contributions to the Kremlin  or directly, by helping to conscript employees and provide resources to the Russian army, as per requirements of Russias Partial Mobilization Law.

While the Kremlin continues to put up roadblocks to leaving the Russian market, B4Ukraines research shows that it is still possible to make a responsible exit and avoid complicity in Russias illegal invasion of Ukraine," the organisation added.

Background:

In July, the National Anti-Corruption Agency of Ukraine added the Unilever conglomerate to the list of the international sponsors of the ongoing war. This conglomerate is vastly represented in Ukraine by such brands as Domestos, Axe, Rexona, Dove etc.

Earlier, Unilever stated that it would follow the Russian legislation about mobilisation if its Russian employees are drafted for military service.

Unilever is one of the worlds leaders on the food and household chemicals markets. It owns more than 400 brands, the products are made at 280 enterprises such as Domestos, Axe, Rexona, Dove, Calve, Rama, Brooke Bond, Lipton, Creme Bonjour, CIF, Knorr, Sunsilk, Timotei, CLEAR and others.

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An appeal filed by Intrepid Potash seeking to regain its water rights on the Pecos River was denied Oct. 18 by a New Mexico appellate court, which found the company had forfeited much of its access to the river.

This verdict sided with a previous district court ruling in a lawsuit filed by the Carlsbad Irrigation District and Otis Mutual Domestic Water Consumers Co-op, challenging Intrepids claims that it could pump water out of the river.

The plaintiffs in that case were mostly made up of rural water users and ranchers in the Carlsbad area, reliant on Pecos River water to irrigate crops and provide for area households.

More: Water users 'disappointed' as Eddy County sides with Intrepid in Pecos River water fight

They worried if Intrepid was successful in claiming the water rights, more than 30,000-acre feet (AF) per year, local water supplies could run perilously low, according to the lawsuit.

Attorney for the CID and Otis water users Ken Dugan said the appeals denial saved the Pecos River by blocking Intrepid from using the water rights.

Intrepids water rights are void. They lost, he said. We saved the Pecos River.

More: 'They've got nothing.' Intrepid loses Pecos River access after Carlsbad legal battle

Dugan said that if Intrepid was allowed to claim the water rights, it would not only deplete the supply of local users but also endanger New Mexico in defaulting on an compact with the State of Texas to provide river water to the neighboring state that shares the river.

That would have put the state into a complete default of the agreement, he said. That was a problem.

District judge ruled Intrepid abandoned water rights through decades of non-use

Fifth Judicial District Court Judge James Wechsler sided with the water users in 2021, finding Intrepid could only claim 150 AF for consumption through salt processing.

More: Trial begins in case against Intrepid Potash's water rights on Pecos River

An acre foot is the amount of water it takes to cover a full acre one foot deep, about 325,000 gallons.

Intrepid had claimed about 35,000 AF of water rights along the river for non-consumptive use and about 19,000 AF for consumption, both for refining potash and selling water to the oil and gas industry.

But although Intrepid once could have had such rights to the river, Wechsler ruled the rights were not used for decades, meaning the company forfeited them.

More: Intrepid Potash defends its Pecos River water rights during trial

The appeals court affirmed this ruling, as the right to continue using water depends on the continued use of water.

Wechsler also ruled Intrepid had alternative sources of water to sustain its operations, pointing to augmentation wells and the Caprock formation in nearby Lea County.

Intrepid only used 3,000 AF of those about 8,000 AF in water rights, the judge ruled, meaning it did not need the Pecos River rights to sustain the company.

More: Trial on Intrepid Potash's Pecos River water rights concludes, parties await verdict

Efforts to shift water use from potash to oil and gas sales was also not properly authorized, Wechsler ruled, reversing multiple authorizations issued by the New Mexico Office of the State Engineer in 2017 to allow the company to pump water and sell it to fossil fuel companies.

Those authorizations were deemed illegal and Intrepid was ordered to stop pumping in April 2020 in a separate case by Carlsbad District Judge Ray Romero, who argued the company lacked public input required ahead of such activities.

Dugan said that if the Office of the State Engineer planned to issue such authorizations in the future, it should ensure other water rights holders are afforded the opportunity to protest.

More: Intrepid Potash Pecos River water rights arguments go to court after judge's ruling

Maybe a little bit of prudence should be used next time, he said. Thats why we allow protest. Its called due process. If you have a water right, you have a vested interest in that water right.

Intrepid knew its water rights would be forfeited without beneficial use, court rules

In the verdict, Appeals Judge Kristina Bogardus combined Intrepids appeal of Romero and Wechslers verdicts and found Wechslers decision nullified the temporary authorization argument as there were no water rights in existence when the authorizations were issued.

Without valid water rights, appellants cannot apply to change the point of diversion or the place and purpose of use of the water, Bogardus wrote. Appellants understood that their water rights would be subject to forfeiture if they were not put to beneficial use.

More: US Supreme Court rules in favor of New Mexico in Pecos River water dispute with Texas

That verdict was appealed by Intrepid in May 2022 with the company arguing its water rights, despite unuse, were extended legally by the State of New Mexico for decades.

Wechsler and the appellate judges also ruled against multiple time extensions issued by the State Engineer during which the courts said the company and predecessors failed to put the water to beneficial use.

The extensions of time did not include the amount of the water rights for which an extension was granted, did not include a finding that the extensions were made in public interest, and were not statements as to the viability of the water rights, read the denial of the appeal.

After the most recent denial, Intrepid could still request the New Mexico Supreme Court to consider hearing a subsequent appeal, but Dugan was optimistic the water was protected by courts.

Were ecstatic that for now, we have protected the Pecos River, he said. Were ecstatic that right prevailed this time.

Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on X, formerly known as Twitter.

This article originally appeared on Carlsbad Current-Argus: Intrepid Potash loses appeal seeking to regain rights to Pecos River
A man who was arrested after he climbed a fence at the home of presidential hopeful Robert F Kennedy Jr was detained for a second time when he immediately returned to the residence following his release.

According to Mr Kennedys campaign, security officials for Mr Kennedy had raised concerns about the individual several times in recent months following alarming communincations he had sent.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, the campaign said in a statement. Protectors from Gavin de Becker & Associates (GDBA) detected and detained the intruder, who asked to see the candidate. The intruder was turned over to the LAPD, the statement read.

After being released from police custody, the man immediately returned to the Kennedy residence and was arrested again. The candidate was home at the time of both arrests.

GDBA had notified the Secret Service about this specific obsessed individual several times in recent months and shared alarming communications he has sent to the candidate.

Mr Kennedy has previously complained about the White Houses decision not to grant him official protection from the Secret Service. At a campaign event last month a heavily-armed man was arrested while posing as a member of his security detail.

Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, at the time, Mr Kennedy said he was the first presidential candidate in history to whom the White House has denied a request for protection. A statement put out following the incidents on Wednesday echoed this sentiment.

Over several months, the campaign submitted formal requests for Secret Service protection, yet US Department of Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas has refused to approve the protection.

Every presidential administration for 55 years has afforded early protection to candidates who requested it. The Biden administration is the sole outlier.

The Secret Service website outlines who they are able to protect, which includes, major presidential and vice presidential candidates, and their spouses within 120 days of a general presidential election.

Mr Kennedys father, Robert F Kennedy, and his uncle, President John F Kennedy, were both assassinated in the 1960s.

The environmental lawyer and conspiracy theorist originally filed candidacy papers for the Democratic nomination with the FEC in April, though allies of president Joe Biden had dismissed his campaign as unserious. However earlier this month he announced that he would be running instead as an independent candidate.

Following his announcement, Mr Kennedys sister, Kerry Kennedy , issued a statement condemning his presidential run as dangerous and perilous for our country.
Romania has installed an anti-drone system at the Danube Delta near its border with Ukraine, the country's President Klaus Iohannis said on Oct. 26, Digi24 reported.

Bucharest has been tightening security in its border regions as Russian drone attacks on Ukrainian Danube ports resulted in some unmanned aerial vehicles falling on Romanian soil.

"The anti-drone system is 'in place,' as they say; it is operational," Iohannis said in Brussels.

"Some of the (equipment) comes from the Romanian military, other comes from allies."

Iohannis added that the radars Romania uses are now able to detect targets at a much lower altitude than before.

"You know that earlier, the problem was that radars only detected targets above 600 meters. Now this level is much lower, almost at the ground," he explained.

Romanian media reported on Oct. 20 that Bucharest is planning to install an anti-drone system along the border with Ukraine in cooperation with an unnamed partner state.

Bucharest has previously deployed additional security measures in the border areas, including setting up bomb shelters and issuing air raid warnings.

Read also: Iohannis: Almost 60% of Ukrainian grain exports transit through Romania

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
An Indian company that manufacturers a key component in lithium-ion batteries has promised to create 500 jobs at its first U.S. factory near Wilmington.

On Thursday, North Carolina awarded Epsilon Advanced Materials an incentive package to build a facility in the Southeast county of Brunswick. The plant will produce synthetic graphite anode material, which is used for energy storage and electric vehicles.

The hundreds of workers are expected to be hired between 2026 and 2028. The average minimum wage at the site is estimated to be approximately $62,260.

State leaders, including Gov. Roy Cooper, are scheduled to celebrate the jobs announcement this afternoon at Brunswick County Community College.

Epsilon Advanced Materials is a subsidiary of the Mumbai-based Epsilon Carbon. If it meets its hiring and investment commitments, Epsilon is in line to receive $3.44 million in payroll tax breaks from the state over 12 years. Additional state spending for the project includes $1 million to the community college system for job training and millions for infrastructure from the Golden Leaf Foundation, the N.C. Department of Transportation, and the N.C. Department of Commerce.

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Gov. Kim Reynolds vigorously defended Iowa's $2 million deployment to the southern border on Wednesday, criticizing the way President Joe Biden has approached border policies and emphasizing the harms that drug trafficking poses to Iowans.

For more than two years, Texas has been ground zero for the national security and humanitarian crisis that we see taking place on the southern border," Reynolds said at a Wednesday news conference. "As governor, I have a responsibility to protect the safety and well-being of Iowans. And protecting them at home starts with protecting the southern border.

Reynolds, a Republican, sent 109 National Guard soldiers to Texas from Aug. 2 to Sept. 1. Thirty-one state patrol officers and agents followed, deploying from Aug. 31 to Oct. 2.

Reynolds and officials with the Iowa Department of Public Safety and Iowa National Guard gave a briefing Wednesday on the two-month deployment, which was funded using federal COVID-19 relief money.

Here's what we know about the mission, and why Reynolds and other state officials say it was necessary.

Adjutant General for the Iowa National Guard Major General Stephen Osborn speaks during a news conference about the Iowa National Guard and Iowa Department of Public Safety deployment to the southern border, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in Des Moines, Iowa.

What did the Iowa troops and officers do at the southern border?

In May, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott asked his fellow governors to send reinforcements to help state law enforcement at the border.

Iowa's National Guard soldiers partnered with the Texas National Guard to monitor illegal crossing points and to apprehend individuals who entered the country illegally.

Our soldiers assisted and supported with the apprehension by (Customs and Border Patrol) of approximately 1,700 illegal immigrants, the surrender of roughly 1,200 immigrants to CBP, the arrest of two individuals with outstanding U.S. warrants, and a large number of migrants who were turned back at the Mexico border at illegal crossing zones," said Major General Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard.

The Iowa State Patrol troopers and agents paired up with the Texas Department of Public Safety to do regular patrol routes and to investigate smuggling attempts.

According to a news release from the governor's office, the Iowa Department of Public Safety officers were "directly involved in 40 human smuggling cases, 11 drug trafficking cases, 14 narcotics arrests, 6 weapons arrests, 42 vehicle pursuits, 35 vehicle bail outs, 11 stolen vehicle recoveries, and 491 illegal migrants were turned over to Customs and Border Patrol."

This wasn't the first time Iowa personnel went to Texas.

In 2021, Reynolds deployed about 28 Iowa State Patrol troopers to the border for 14 days in the Del Rio area in southwest Texas, where they accompanied Texas law enforcement on patrols, assisted with humanitarian efforts, helped disrupt criminal networks and investigated human smuggling, officials said at the time.

How much did Iowa's southern border mission cost?

Iowa used nearly $2 million of federal funds for its most recent border mission.

Iowas mission to support Operation Lone Star cost a combined total of approximately $1.93 million, but not a penny will be paid by the state," Reynolds said. "Instead, it will be paid using federal funds allocated to Iowa through the American Rescue Plan."

The American Rescue Plan is a COVID-19 relief package that Biden signed into law in 2021 and that Republicans uniformly opposed. The law gave billions of federal funds to states as they recovered from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Since the president and his administration have refused to rescue Americas borders, weve done our part on their behalf," Reynolds quipped.

Why did Gov. Kim Reynolds send a mission to the border?

Reynolds argued that Iowa is especially at risk for drug trafficking from Mexico.

Iowas location at the intersection of two major interstates provides human traffickers and drug cartels a direct route from Mexico to the Midwest," Reynolds said. "And from 2020 to 2022, Iowa has seen a 500% increase in fentanyl seizures, a 100% increase in meth seizures, and we have seen drug-related deaths increase by 35%. We have seen unprecedented levels of fentanyl, meth and cocaine now exist in our regions drug supply, and its putting Iowans at risk.

It is unclear exactly how many of those Iowa drug seizures and overdose deaths can be linked to drugs smuggled across the southern border.

Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens presented Iowa's drug seizure totals from March to May 2023. Iowa law enforcement officers seized 335 pounds of meth, 15,350 fentanyl pills, three pounds of heroin, 136 grams of crack cocaine, 72 pounds of cocaine and 80 pounds of marijuana.

Bayens said officers uncovered seven cases within that 90-day window that had "a direct evidentiary link to the Mexican cartels." He said Iowa law enforcement started tracking the number of cases tied to the southern border in 2019. According to Bayens, the number of Iowa cases tied to the southern border have "spiked" since 2021.

Reynolds also made a broader argument that illegal immigrants to the U.S. could be a national security threat.

"When you see the number of terrorists that they've apprehended that are crossing our borders? My god. Think of the ones that have gotten by us, that they didn't apprehend," she said.

According to NBC News, 160 migrants who were on the FBI's terrorist watchlist were apprehended at the southern border in fiscal year 2023, which ended in July.

Most fentanyl enters the U.S. through legal ports of entry

Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are often conflated, but most fentanyl isn't being brought into the country by migrants crossing between entry points.

The Drug Enforcement Agency reported in 2020 that Mexican criminal organizations most commonly concealed drugs in vehicles and trucks that enter the United States through legal ports of entry. NPR reported in August that close to 90% of fentanyl is seized at legal ports of entry, and nearly all of those smugglers are individuals who are authorized to enter the country.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in February that it is "unequivocally false that fentanyl is being brought to the United States by non-citizens encountered in between the ports of entry who are making claims of credible fear and seeking asylum," CBS reports.

And fentanyl has been on the rise for years: According to CBS News, fentanyl seizures at U.S. legal ports of entry quadrupled in 2019 and 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic made it much harder to travel internationally and more potent, easily-concealable drugs  like fentanyl  became preferable for traffickers.

Stephen Gruber-Miller contributed reporting.

Katie Akin is a politics reporter for the Register. Reach her at kakin@registermedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @katie_akin.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Gov. Reynolds cites drugs, terrorism as reasons for border mission
For a country that claims it had no direct involvement in planning the Hamas massacre against Israel, Iran appears to be doing its level best to escalate the conflict well beyond the confines of Gaza.

In the immediate aftermath of Hamass barbaric assault on Israel on October 7, there was much speculation that such a sophisticated operation could not have been carried out without recourse to Irans renowned expertise in the realm of global terrorism. But after Irans supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei , denied that Tehran had any involvement in the attacks, Western intelligence officials were forced to concede there was scant evidence of direct Iranian complicity.

The only suggestion that Iran, and its Hezbollah allies in southern Lebanon, had helped with the planning of the assault was the admission by Ismail Haniyeh, the Hamas leader, that the money the terror group had received from Tehran had been central to its ability to develop the terrorist infrastructure that was used to devastating effect against Israel.

But Tehrans reticence about claiming the credit for organising the worst terrorist attack the Jewish state has suffered in its history certainly does not apply to its other activities in the region. They appear to be a deliberate attempt to provoke a broader escalation in the conflict.

Apart from maintaining its financial support for Hamas, which is said to be worth $100 million a year, Iran has been accused of instigating border clashes in northern Israel between Hezbollah and the Israeli military. Irans efforts to maintain its supply lines to Hezbollah through the network of military bases it has established in neighbouring Syria has led to Israel conducting a series of air strikes against Iranian targets in the country.

Meanwhile, Iranian-backed militias in Iraq and Syria have been accused of attacking bases held by the US and its allies, while attempts by Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen to open a new front prompted the US military to shoot down a number of missiles and drones directed towards Israel.

And, in the latest example of Tehrans determination to deepen the pressure on Israel, pro-Western Arab security officials claim that Iran has set up a complex network to smuggle weapons into the West Bank, with the aim of opening up a new Palestinian front against Israels security forces.

All this activity was taking place while the countrys foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, was warning Israel earlier this week that the Middle East could spiral out of control if it does not stop strikes on Gaza.

The reason that Iran has been so busy encouraging its complex network of militias and terrorist organisations to target Israel and its allies is that Tehran knows it cannot afford a direct confrontation with Israel. To do so would risk the Israelis implementing their long-held plan to destroy Irans prized nuclear assets, which most Western intelligence experts believe are aimed at developing nuclear weapons.

For all the ayatollahs bluster, they realise that they are no match for Israels military might, especially at a time when Washington has deployed two powerful aircraft carrier battle groups to the region as a gesture of solidarity with its Israeli ally. Instead, they have turned to the terror groups they sponsor throughout the region  groups that the West has allowed to flourish despite having tangible proof of Tehrans malign intent.

During Britains military involvement in both Iraq and Afghanistan, for example, Iran actively supported terror cells charged with killing and maiming British troops. And yet, rather than holding Iran to account for its actions, little was done for fear of upsetting the delicate negotiations over Tehrans nuclear ambitions.

Here at home, this reluctance to confront Tehran has even resulted in our security services failing to curb the activities of Iranian terrorist sleeper cells in the UK. The authorities were unable to prevent an Iranian opposition channel being forced to relocate to Washington earlier this year because of the constant death threats its staff received.

With Iran actively seeking to exploit the current crisis in the Middle East for its own nefarious ends, it is vital that Western powers, rather than seeking to avoid a conflict with Tehran, demonstrate that they will no longer tolerate Irans attempts to wage war through its many proxies.

This time there is a real danger for Tehran that it is overplaying its hand, evident when US warships shot down Houthi missiles aimed at Israel. Other Western powers, including the UK, should likewise deploy military assets to thwart efforts by Iranian-backed terrorists to hit Israel and its allies.

In London, the Government should implement a long-overdue ban on Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, which controls Tehrans terrorist network. Limiting Irans ability to provoke further would certainly help to prevent the conflict between Israel and Hamas from escalating into a far larger, and immensely more dangerous, Middle East war.

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Iran trained about 500 Palestinian militants in the weeks before the attack on Israel, but it is unclear whether the training was part of the preparation for the 7 October attack.

Source: The Wall Street Journal with reference to sources familiar with intelligence data on the attack and US officials

Quote from the WSJ: "In the weeks leading up to Hamass Oct. 7 attacks on Israel, hundreds of the Palestinian Islamist militant groups fighters received specialised combat training in Iran, according to people familiar with intelligence related to the assault."

Details: The Wall Street Journal said that about 500 militants from Hamas and the allied group Palestinian Islamic Jihad took part in the September exercise, which was led by officers of the Quds Force, the foreign operations unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

They stated that the exercise was also attended by high-ranking Palestinian officials and Iranian Brigadier General Esmail Qaani, the head of the Quds Force.

At the same time, US officials stressed that Iran regularly trains militants in its own country and other states, but the WSJ reports they said that "they have no indications of a mass training right before the attack."

Intelligence sources and US officials familiar with the matter said they had no information to suggest that Iran had conducted training specifically to prepare for the events of 7 October.

Background:

After the attack began, the United States officially stated that it had no evidence that Iran was directly involved in planning or approving the 7 October attacks. Pentagon spokesman Patrick Ryder said that the information available to the United States did not indicate a direct link between Iran and the 7 October Hamas attacks.

At the same time, The Wall Street Journal, citing senior Hamas and Hezbollah officials, reported that Quds Force had helped plan the attack and agreed to it at a meeting in Beirut on 2 October.

Information about the 2 October meeting has been disputed by senior US officials and others familiar with the intelligence relating to the meeting. Several US officials said that Washington had "compelling" intelligence indicating that Iranian leaders were surprised by the Hamas attack.

However, according to Western and Egyptian officials, when the attacks began on 7 October, Hamas contacted officials of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which reports to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and Lebanese Hezbollah to inform them of the attack.

The Israeli army commented on Wednesday on Iran's role in assisting Hamas and other militant groups: "Before the war, Iran directly helped Hamas with money, training, weapons and technological know-how. Even now, Iran is helping Hamas with intelligence."

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The Iranian foreign minister warned of uncontrollable consequences for the U.S. if its backing of Israels war against Hamas in Gaza continues to expand.

I say frankly to the American statemen who are now managing the genocide in Palestine that we do not welcome the expansion of the war in the region, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said in a United Nations address. But I warn, if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire. It is our home and West Asia is our region.

The war in Gaza began earlier this month after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israeli towns, killing more than 1,400 people. Responding Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 6,700 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

Iran has long been an ally of Hamas, supplying it with money, military training and weapons. The militant group is considered a terrorist organization in the U.S. and European Union.

At the start of the conflict, Hamas took about 200 people hostage, mostly Israeli civilians. Amir-Abdollahian said Hamas is ready to release those hostages and called on members to also support the freeing of about 6,000 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.

Top Stories from The Hill

Hostages have been the main focus of the conflict in the last week after four were released, two Americans and two elderly Israeli women.

Amir-Abdollahian held up the Hamas fighters as a Palestinian resistance and said the group has an unalienable right to self-determination and independence for Gaza, free from what he described as Israeli occupation of Palestine.

He also criticized the U.S.s role in the decades-long conflict between Israel and Palestine.

The United States of America, as the unwavering and permanent supporter of the occupying regime, is the main cause of the failures of the United Nations, especially the Security Council, in upholding the rights of the Palestinians, he said.

Amir-Abdollahian directed his words at President Biden, calling on the U.S. to stop backing Israel in the conflict.

While the United States itself is actually in practice and directly involved in committing crimes against Palestinians, it is not in a position to invite others to exercise self-restraint and refrain from spreading the war, he continued. Therefore, we strongly warn against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime, which have led to the expansion and added to the severity of the bombardments of the civilians and the Palestinian women and children in Gaza and the West Bank.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The department said there would be limited assistance if the situation deteriorates further

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is "strongly advising" all Irish citizens to leave Lebanon while commercial options remain available.

It also advises against all travel to the country due to the ongoing conflict.

Tensions are high along the Lebanese border with Israel, with frequent exchanges of fire between heavily-armed militants in Lebanon and the Israeli army.

The department said there would be limited assistance if the situation deteriorates further.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says almost 6,500 people have been killed since 7 October - Israel has been bombing the territory.

More than 1,400 were killed in the initial attacks on Israel by Hamas, and more than 200 people are still being held hostage in Gaza.

The DFA said: "If for any reason you cannot leave Lebanon now, we would advise you to exercise extreme caution in your movements and put contingency plans in place to leave Lebanon as soon as possible."

Citizens should also ensure their documentation, including passports, is up-to-date.

The department stated that citizens in Lebanon should avoid any protests or demonstrations as there is a possibility of these gatherings quickly leading to violence.

It advises citizens to remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.

Irish citizens in Lebanon who have not registered with the Irish Embassy in Cairo have been advised to by the department.

It added: "If you are an Irish citizen and in need of emergency assistance outside of normal office hours, then you can contact us on the following emergency number: +20 1274443942."
WASHINGTON  After three weeks without a House speaker, Republicans in the lower chamber came together Wednesday to elect Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., to the top spot.

Johnson, who served as the vice chair of the Republican conference and was first elected to Congress in 2016, succeeds former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif. McCarthy was ousted earlier this month by a handful of hardline Republicans after he compromised with Democrats to avoid a government shutdown.

As Johnson settles into the speakership, his first full day on the job wont be easy.

He needs to unite lawmakers to avoid a government shutdown set for mid-November, address wars in Ukraine and Israel and bring together Republican lawmakers who have been embroiled in infighting since the start of McCarthys reign as speaker.

I want to say to the American people, on behalf of all of us here, we hear you, Johnson said after he was elected speaker. We know the challenges youre facing. We know that theres a lot going on in our country, domestically and abroad, and we are ready to get to work again to solve those problems.

Heres a closer look at the challenges Johnson faces as the new speaker:

Avoiding a government shutdown

Chief among the challenges Johnson faces is avoiding a government shutdown set to start on Nov. 17 that could impact millions of Americans lives.

A shutdown means hundreds of thousands of federal workers could be furloughed and low-income families could lose access to Head Start preschool programs or see delays in nutrition assistance.

To avert such a crisis, the House and Senate must pass 12 appropriations bills to keep the government's doors open. Before the previous Oct. 1 shutdown deadline, both chambers only passed a few appropriations bills.

McCarthy had difficulty getting Republican votes for an appropriations bill that could pass the House. If Johnson can't get enough Republican votes, he'll need Democratic votes  which means concessions, said David Bateman, a professor of policy and government at Cornell University.

But even if he gets a Republican-only bill through, that's not likely to pass the Senate or be acceptable to the president. At the end of the day, Johnson will need to pass a bill that Democrats  in the White House or Senate, at the very least  can support," Bateman explained. "If not, there will be a shutdown.

In a letter to his GOP colleagues, Johnson laid out a plan to at least dodge a shutdown. It included a timeline for the rest of the spending bills and a potential stopgap measure that would temporarily fund the government until either Jan. 15 or April 15.

McCarthy was able to get a continuing resolution, but it cost him the speakership, Mark Harkins, a senior fellow at the Government Affairs Institute at Georgetown University, told USA TODAY. It is unclear to me if the dynamic that forced that scenario has changed.

Providing aid to Ukraine, Israel

Another challenge Johnson faces is how he will garner support for President Joe Bidens request to Congress for funding to support Israel in its war against Hamas and to support Ukraine against Russia's invasion.

Johnson has not indicated that he's in favor of additional Ukraine aid. He voted against two supplemental appropriations bills last year and in September that provided the funding.

American taxpayers have sent over $100 billion in aid to Ukraine in the last year, Johnson said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, in February. They deserve to know if the Ukrainian government is being entirely forthcoming and transparent about the use of this massive sum of taxpayer resources.

But Democrats in the House have held a hard stance on supporting Ukraine. Passing these aid packages will require compromise on the part of all parties, Harkins said.

Johnson has a difficult needle to thread to reach accommodation with Democrats in the Senate and White House while not losing a governing majority in the House, he added. The pressure to not fund Ukraine from a segment of House Republicans will be intense. But that will fly in the face of a majority of members of the House which want the funding approved.

A staunch supporter of Donald Trump, Johnson might also face pressure from the former president, who has criticized efforts for Ukraine.

However, Johnson has stood for supporting Israel. After Bidens Oval Office address to the nation last week calling for support for Israel and Ukraine, the Louisiana Republican acknowledged his speech on X.

@JoeBiden's address to the nation tonight only confirms the urgent need for the U.S. to act in support of our great ally, Israel, as they fight against Hamas terrorists, he wrote. We must elect a Speaker so the House can take all necessary action to end Hamas forever.

Uniting Republicans and Democrats

Tensions between moderate and hard-line conservatives in the Republican Party continue to grow, as captured by eight Republicans choosing to oust McCarthy and the multiple rounds of voting that took place after to get a new nominee elected to the speakership.

The question is not if, but when a segment of the Republican caucus turns against him. Speaker McCarthy was able to get a debt limit deal through," Harkins said. "But when he went back to the well and tried to keep the government open, that ended his speakership. Democrats may be willing to help, but their price may be steeper than speaker Johnson is willing to pay."

The House isnt known for being a bipartisan institution, he noted, and he doesnt expect Johnson to change that.

He is one of, if not the most conservative speaker we have had in a long time. While that got him into the speaker's chair, it will not make it easy for him to reach across the aisle to find compromise solutions, he said. The House Republican Conference did not select Speaker Johnson to work with Democrats. They selected him to fight to the end for conservative issues.

Dave Rausch, Teel Bivins professor of political science at West Texas A&M University, agreed. With Johnson's history including voting against certifying the 2020 election and opposing same-sex marriage, Rausch said he doesnt know how many Democrats would be willing to sign on.

"Johnson's probably walking the most publicized tightrope of anyone because he has to work with Democrats on something, but he can't work with Democrats too much because he has that Republican group  that small group  and now a lot of them kind of think like him."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Israel aid, government shutdown: 3 challenges for new House speaker
As they watch airstrikes and hot-barreled howitzers pound targets in Gaza, check and recheck their personal weapons, communications and webbing, there can be very few among the thousands of Israeli soldiers poised for combat who dont quietly wonder: Is this a trap?

Hamas, and its backers in Tehran, would have certainly planned to meet a fierce Israeli ground offensive after the terrorizing infiltration of Israel.

Its possible  even probable  that the singular horrors inflicted on so many civilians were intended by Hamas to guarantee a massive Israeli response, no matter the cost to civilians in Gaza.

Israels next moves will determine the shape of things to come  perhaps for decades. It all comes down to Gaza.

Hamas has riddled the Strip with networks of tunnels. It will have laced the landscape above ground with booby traps, and will have plans to meet the IDF with anything from swarms of suicide bombers to snatch teams to take soldiers hostage.

US generals and other officials have been sharing their experiences of urban warfare on a large scale with Israel.

It took Iraqs military  backed by American, British and other special forces along with relentless air strikes  nine months to drive ISIS out of Mosul in 2017.

The northern Iraqi city was largely emptied of civilians but fighting was house to house. ISIS used tunnel systems it had built to ambush government troops who painfully took Mosul brick by bloody brick.

The bomb-making skills of Hezbollah, the Lebanese militant group and close ally of Hamas, have metastasized across the Middle East. In Gaza, Israeli troops will know they face improvised explosive devices built with charges that can cripple a tank. Theyll know that Hezbollahs abilities to destroy armor will have been further refined since Israel last did serious battle in Lebanon in 2006 and was shocked by the sophistication of the militia.

Hamas now has anti-aircraft capabilities  Israels Apache helicopters providing close support to infantry will be vulnerable to one man with a SAM (surface to air missile).

No doubt Hamas also has crews of propagandists ready to make kill videos of their attacks on Israeli troops. Nothing is more likely to inflame, or radicalize, angry young men than films of gore and daring  ISIS taught us that.

Whole neighborhoods have been flattened in Israel's strikes on Gaza. Pictured here is part of Beit Hanoun, Gaza, on October 21 - Satellite image 2023 Maxar Technologies

Phase two

Its safe to assume that Hamas would have planned for widespread carnage in Gaza. Indeed that may be the objective of phase two after the October 7 attacks.

Any miscalculation in continuing genocide and forced displacement can have serious and bitter consequences, both in the region and for the warmongers, said Irans Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian on Sunday.

His words arent meant as analysis  theyre a threat.

The White House knows this. A trap sprung against Israel could have wide and dangerous consequences leading to the sort of Clash of Civilizations that followed 9/11.

A major concern for President Joe Biden will be the welfare of US hostages in Gaza and for the other 200-plus souls held by Hamas and other groups in the enclave.

But since the weekend, CNNs own sources in Washington have reflected concerns that a large-scale Israeli ground operation risks igniting a conflagration that could burn out of control  of the sort that took hold in Iraq after the US-led invasion to topple Saddam Hussein.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has, for many years, drawn a straight line between Hamas and the so-called Islamic State. He already sees the Israel-Hamas conflict as a clash of civilizations.

Hamas are the new Nazis. They are the new ISIS and we have to fight them together just as the world, the civilized world, united to fight the Nazis and united to fight ISIS, he said at a press conference during the visit of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak this week.

Hamas latest atrocities were a Grand Guignol of horror, but the militant movement isnt ISIS. Hamas has in fact worked hard, and violently, to snuff out ISIS elements in Gaza who represented a form of political Islam that it deeply opposed.

Hamas does hope to establish a Palestinian state based on the teachings of Islam. But it has no pretentions to a caliphate. Crucially it also has no history of attacks outside Israel and the Palestinian territories, nor has it harnessed the internet into worldwide attempts at radicalization.

But Hamas is committed to the destruction of the Jewish state. World leaders have recoiled from its latest atrocities and have been vocal in supporting Israel.

The struggle [against terror groups] must be without mercy, said French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday in Israel.

But he added a caveat that, arguably, is rooted as much in realpolitik as it is in ethics: An effort to avoid getting the West sucked into a conflict that could, or would, be seen as a war against Islam (again).

That struggle, he said, must be without mercy, but not without rules.

Some 1,400 people were killed in in Israel during the Hamas-led raids. Since then, Israeli strikes have killed more than 6,400 people in Gaza and injured a further 17,000, according to information from Hamas-controlled health authorities in Gaza and published by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. The Israel Defense Forces say that theyre trying to minimize civilian casualties.

A state of near-total siege has been imposed on the 2.3 million population. The UN says 1.4 million people have been displaced inside the thin strip of land.

A ground operation by Israel, though, would inevitable mean these figures shoot up. On both sides.

There have been pro-Palestinian marches throughout the world protesting at the level of destruction visited already on Gaza by Israel. If a land incursion gets underway it will be much worse  and the protests more loud.

Meanwhile Israels enemies  all dedicated to the destruction of the state itself  have been meeting in Lebanon.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah met a deputy head of Hamas, Saleh Al-Arouri, and the secretary-general of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Ziad Al-Nakhla, on Wednesday.

An assessment was made of what the parties of the resistance axis must do at this sensitive stage to achieve a real victory for the resistance in Gaza and Palestine and to stop the treacherous and brutal aggression against our people, Hezbollah said in a statement afterward.

One can be sure that minders from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps Quds Brigade, Tehrans leading international military and intelligence arm, were on hand. The Quds brigade has trained, funded and guided all three groups for many years.

Theyll be looking to exploit Israels next moves in Gaza as their own phase two of the October 7 attacks.

Hezbollah has already been drawing Israeli forces away from an exclusive focus on Gaza by skirmishing along Lebanons southern border. The US has blamed Iran for sending Iraqi proxies to hit American logistics bases in Baghdad. The cauldron of conflict has been kept simmering with attempts by the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen to fire missiles towards Israel, which were shot down by the US.

Americans and many European nationals are being told to leave many Middle Eastern countries close to Israel; even the Australians too have three planes on standby to handle evacuations.

John Kirby, the spokesman for the US National Security Council, said Monday that the administration was watching very, very closely for signs Iranian-backed militia groups are planning to ramp up attacks on US military forces stationed in the Middle East.

An Israeli soldier stands in an armoured vehicle near the Lebanon border on October 23, 2023, amid the ongoing battles between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. - Jalaa Marey/AFP/Getty Images

Consumed by rage

Iran may be trying to draw US Washingtons attention away from the Israeli theater  but it may also be trying to goad the US into more conflict.

Thats a conflict that the US is trying to avoid. Biden, according to CNNs own reporting, is advising caution in talks with Israels PM. He has reinforced those private discussions with public counsel.

You cant look at what has happened here to mothers or fathers or grandparents, sons, daughters, children, even babies and not scream out for justice  justice must be done  but I caution this, while you feel that rage, dont be consumed by it, he said. After 9/11, we were enraged in the United States. While we saw justice and got justice, we also made mistakes.

Those mistakes led to the US-led invasion of Iraq, a widespread belief that Islam was under attack from the West, chaos in the Middle East, the so-called Islamic State or Caliphate itself  and world-wide terror attacks.

When President Biden warns the Israeli government not to repeat the mistakes it made in Afghanistan, he is speaking from significant lived experience. As we all know now, the US overreacted after 9/11 and lost so much of the goodwill initially generated in the immediate aftermath, whether that was in terms of the war of choice in Iraq and its aftermath or the expansion of the war in Afghanistan, said Karin von Hippel, director of the Royal United Services Institute and a former adviser to the US military on combating terrorism.

Thats the conventional wisdom.

Martin Sherman, head of the Israel Institute for Strategic Studies and a long-time advocate of a harder line against his countrys regional rivals or enemies, disagrees.

He believes that Israel should go into Gaza, and hard.

I dont think that the Arabs will ever really come to terms with Israel the minimum that Israel can strive for is to be greatly feared and the best it can hope for is to be grudgingly accepted, he said.

The IDF soldiers poised in their mustering points for what may be a major battle in Gaza might also wonder if, years from now, their sons may be back there again, striking out to be greatly feared.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Fighter jets in multi-subject flight training

China Military Online) 09:26, October 26, 2023

A fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under the PLA Southern Theater Command soars into sky during a multi-subject flight training exercise in early October, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhuo Lingpeng)

A fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under the PLA Southern Theater Command soars into sky during a multi-subject flight training exercise in early October, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhuo Lingpeng)

Fighter jets attached to an aviation brigade with the air force under the PLA Southern Theater Command taxi down the runway after landing during a multi-subject flight training exercise in early October, 2023. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhuo Lingpeng)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The News

Israeli forces conducted a targeted raid into Gaza overnight using tanks, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the country was still preparing for a ground invasion.

The incursion is not the first time Israeli forces have directly entered the enclave since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. Soldiers have carried out several raids in search of hostages or to target militants, The Times of Israel notes, but Thursdays operation took forces further into Gaza than so far during the war.

The Israeli military said the limited overnight raid was part of preparations for the next stages of combat.

Know More

Netanyahu hinted in a Wednesday address that there could be several ground invasions into the Gaza Strip but would not elaborate on when, how or how many incursions may be coming.

Israeli allies such as the U.S. have called for a delay in the ground invasion over concerns it will destabilize the Middle East, while French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that it would be incompatible with international law.

Step Back

The United Nations said the humanitarian crisis in Gaza had reached an unprecedented point. At least 6,500 people have been killed in the enclave following Israel's bombardment of the region, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said that its aid organizations have had to scale back their services as they run out of fuel. More than 600,000 people are internally displaced.
Israeli D9 bulldozers are stationed at the Israeli-Gaza Strip border (AFP via Getty Images)

As thousands of Israeli soldiers mass at the Gaza border ahead of an anticipated ground offensive, a heavily modified armoured bulldozer dubbed the Teddy Bear is set to lead the charge.

The heavily-armoured vehicles, manufactured by the US tractor company Caterpillar, will be used to soak up enemy fire and clear a path through cluttered streets intermittently mined by Hamas, the militant group in control of the enclave.

In a national address on Wednesday, Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said forces were preparing for a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.

It is a feat that has not been undertaken before on such a scale, in part due to the risk to life for Israeli soldiers conducting the offensive is significant.

The roughly 100 Teddy Bear bulldozers expected to cross into the enclave in front of the troops will drastically minimise this risk.

What do we know about Israels bulldozers?

An Israeli D9 Bulldozer rolls along the southern Israeli border with the Gaza Strip (AFP via Getty Images)

The Israeli D9R bulldozers weigh roughly 62 tonnes and are four metres tall and wide, and eight metres long.

In 2015, they were upgraded with slat armour, also known as cage or bar armour, to ensure they were protected against rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), a weapon frequently used by Hamas.

The armour effectively surrounds the entire vehicle. Bullet-proof glass and armoured cabin pillars also augment the slat armour.

The D9Rs have myriad functions and extensive experience on the battlefield, particularly in Gaza - they were central to the Israeli offensive into the enclave in 2008/9, known as Operation Cast Lead.

Their primary functions are to clear paths of booby-traps and obstructions for soldiers behind them to march through unharmed, as well as construct defensive positions for the troops to take cover behind.

In an urban warfare setting, like the Gaza Strip, they also double up as offensive vehicles.

Modifications to the bulldozers over the past two decades include the fitting of a crew-operated machine gun and grenade launchers.

The cost of a new Cat D9 bulldozer is at least $900,000 (739,624) but extensive slat armour editions and offensive capabilities mean the vehicles total cost likely exceeds 1 million.

They are operated by a driver and a commander, who is responsible for weaponry and communications. All operators will be members of the Combat Engineering Corps, a unit made up of four batallions that was founded in 1947.

How will Hamas counter the bulldozers?

Hundreds of Israeli tanks and bulldozers will be used during a ground offensive in Gaza (Jim Hollander/UPI/Shutterstock)

Drones will play a crucial role in Hamas reaction to the insurgency and, given its size and significant bulk, the RD9s will not be hard to hit.

And while the armour added in 2015, estimated to put 15 extra tonnes on each vehicle, will improve their resistant qualities, it will also likely depreciate their agility and speed to some degree.

Videos from 7 October, when Hamas broke into Israel, have already shown the militant groups ability to strike and injure a heavily-armoured Merkava main battle tank using quadcopter-dropped munitions, which are bombs dropped from commercially-available drones.

Federico Borsari, an expert on drone warfare, told The Independent that this remarkable attack showed that Hamas will create problems for mechanised units when they move into Gaza, including elements of the Engineering Corps operating the RD9s.

A brief history of bulldozers at war

Israels mechanised units will be vulnerable to Hamas drones (EPA)

The British Army pioneered the use of bulldozers in a warzone during the Battle of Normandy, aka Operation Overlord, in 1944.

The Caterpillar D7s, a predecessor of the D9, were used to clear obstacles from the French beaches and quickly make the roads ahead accessible by removing rubble and filling in bomb craters.

The US Army then used D9 bulldozers during the Vietnam War to clear forests.

Combat use of Caterpillars in Israel stretches back to the Sinai War of 1956, the Six-Day War in 1967, the Yom Kippur War (1973) and the 1982 Operation Peace for Galilee.
Differences between EU leaders have been stark, with some like Hungary's Viktor Orban (L) closer to the Israeli position

EU leaders have called for "corridors and pauses" as a means to get badly needed humanitarian aid into Gaza.

After more than five hours of talks at a summit in Brussels, a joint statement urged safe and unhindered access.

It follows days of disagreement, with some member states arguing for a longer, single pause in the fighting.

Israel began bombing Gaza and cut off fuel, food and other supplies after Hamas's attack in which 1,400 people were killed and 224 taken hostage.

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says more than 7,000 people have been killed in the territory since then and that its health system is facing total collapse, with a third of hospitals not functioning and the rest only treating emergency cases.

Only small amounts of aid have started reaching Gaza in recent days.

The EU leaders' summit is the first since the 7 October attacks.

Their statement condemns the Hamas attacks and "strongly emphasises Israel's right to defend itself in line with international law".

"The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs," the statement reads.

This may not seem like much, but for an institution that represents 27 countries with some fundamentally opposing views on the Israel-Palestinian conflict - it's a compromise.

"Humanitarian pauses" are meant as short intervals of just a few hours, so that the EU can "work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations", the statement reads.

This follows days of complex negotiations about whether to call for a "pause" (singular) or "pauses" (plural).

"A single, humanitarian pause would be too close to the concept of a ceasefire - when Israel has the right to defend itself from attack," an EU diplomat told the BBC.

"A pause means both actors stop for good, whereas pauses is temporary."

This position was shared by those European countries that have taken a strong pro-Israel stance - including Hungary, Austria, the Czech Republic and most importantly Germany, which undoubtedly had a big say in the wording of the EU statement.

Some countries will be disappointed. Both Ireland's and Spain's leaders, speaking to journalists before the start of the negotiations, had called for a ceasefire.

But the Spanish caretaker Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will be pleased about a new line added to the EU statement at the last minute: "The European Union supports the holding of an international peace conference soon."

He had called earlier today for an international peace summit in six months to find a solution to the long-standing conflict in the region.

The EU is not a military power - all they can do, really, is exercise diplomatic pressure and grant aid.

And ultimately, this statement might not change anything. Earlier today Benny Gantz, a member of Israel's war cabinet, said the country would make its own decisions about its war plans in Gaza, based on its own interests.

More on Israel-Gaza war
The EU has struggled to present a united front on the war, and there has been criticism of Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (L)

EU leaders are meeting in Brussels at a summit overshadowed by Hamas's war with Israel and the EU's failure to project a united front.

For weeks, the European Union's stance on the war has been clouded with mixed messages, diplomatic gaffes and conflicting national views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

But after days of disagreement, EU leaders aim to reach a common position.

At issue is whether to back a ceasefire or humanitarian pauses in the fighting.

European Council President Charles Michel says the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza is of grave concern and the leaders are keen to facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter.

They hope that will create safer conditions for the release of more than 200 hostages seized by Hamas gunmen during their 7 October attack. Many of those held captive are European dual nationals, including citizens from Germany, France, Portugal and the Netherlands.

EU member states hold sharply differing views and it all makes for a very confusing picture.

Arriving for the summit, Spain's caretaker prime minister Pedro Sanchez said he would like to see a ceasefire: "But if we don't have that condition, at least a humanitarian pause in order to channel all the humanitarian aid that the Palestinian population needs urgently."

Some have reservations about calling for a pause in the fighting and argue it could be seen as limiting Israel's right to self-defence.

Germany and other countries do not support the idea of one, singular humanitarian pause, because that would be too close to the concept of a ceasefire, when Israel has the right to defend itself from attack.

What was needed instead were shorter breaks in the fighting, one diplomat told the BBC. "A pause means both actors stop for good, whereas pauses is temporary. It's short intervals for a few hours, to get aid," they said.

Germany, Austria, Hungary and the Czech Republic have taken strong stances of supporting Israel. Spain and Ireland are more attuned with the Palestinian cause.

Several European leaders have been on a diplomatic tour of the Middle East. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron have all had talks with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer and Czech prime minister Petr Fiala visited Israel on Wednesday.

Those differing views extend to the EU's executive too.

The EU is the largest donor to the Palestinians, so when Oliver Varhelyi, Hungary's European Commissioner responsible for policy towards neighbouring countries, announced after the Hamas attack that all payments were being suspended and all new budget proposals postponed, it immediately sent alarm bells ring at aid agencies.

The EC then rushed out a statement saying 691m (600m) of aid would not be stopped but put under review, and later said it would treble aid for Palestinians.

And when European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen flew to Israel with the president of the European Parliament, she drew criticism for backing Israel's right to defend itself without stressing that it should stick to international humanitarian law. There seemed to be no effort to connect with the Palestinian Authority.

However, an EU diplomat told journalists that not everything Ms von der Leyen said in Israel was posted on social media. "If you want to be effective, you don't do megaphone diplomacy," the diplomat said. "The Israeli government listens to us if we raise something behind closed doors."

In a highly unusual move, more than 800 EU staff and diplomats signed an open letter criticising her "uncontrolled" support of Israel. They complained of the Commission's "double standards", pointing out that Russia's blockade of Ukraine was seen as an act of terror, while Israel's blockade of Gaza was "completely ignored".

"The EU's response has been rather unfortunate and very confusing," James Moran from the Centre for European Policy Studies told the BBC.

"In the past, the EU approach to conflicts in the Middle East had generally managed to come out with an even-handed position. For example, in 2014 calls for a ceasefire were pretty quickly made."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is among the EU leaders who have visited Israel this month

The EU doesn't have an army, ships, or planes - but it has played an important diplomatic role in the Middle East.

When it was made up of just nine members in 1980, it issued the ground-breaking Venice Declaration recognising the Palestinian people's right to self-determination.

Fast forward to 2023, the EU represents 27 countries with "fundamentally opposing views on the Middle East", an EU diplomat told the BBC.

That became clear during an EU foreign ministers meeting earlier this week, where German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reportedly argued against a humanitarian ceasefire because Hamas was still firing rockets at Israel.

As a result the EU has so far failed to agree on what kind of pause there should be.

More on Israel-Gaza war

Another crucial element is that the EU doesn't want to deviate from the US line. The German position on backing short humanitarian pauses to allow aid in is similar to that advocated by the Americans.

"There's a great need to maintain transatlantic solidarity on Ukraine," says James Moran. "EU-US cooperation has been very important in helping Ukrainians defend themselves from Russia's invasion."

But EU diplomats point out that the war in Ukraine is not remotely comparable to what is happening in the Middle East.

"It was a war on our doorstep, and there was a clear enemy," a spokesperson for the European Parliament told the BBC. "Nobody ever questioned whether it was right for the EU to help Ukraine arm itself. It was an epochal change."

Since the beginning of Russia's aggression, EU support has reached 82.6bn.

That level of unity is missing in the Hamas-Israel war: "A lack of a single voice is the EU's achilles heel," the EU diplomat says.

Those differences are likely to resurface when the 27 EU leaders meet behind closed doors in Brussels on Thursday afternoon.

The EU was created as a peace project after the devastation caused by World War Two and does have the potential to be a peace broker.

But in reality no European country is powerful enough to stand alone as a major player; and together they are too divided.

"After a long period of lack of engagement with the Middle East, we can't somehow magically wake up and turn around the conflict there," a diplomat told the BBC.
Israeli armoured vehicles take part in an operation, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, at a location given as the northern Gaza Strip

Israeli tanks moved into Gaza overnight, in what the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) described as a targeted raid. The move is widely seen as paving the way for a long-expected ground invasion of the Strip, something that Israel apparently agreed to temporarily delay, allowing the United States to deploy additional air defense assets to protect its troops in the region. You can read more about that development  and our previous coverage of the conflict  here .

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgKFui48OQ4

IDF forces under the command of the Givati Brigade tonight carried out a targeted raid using tanks in the territory of the northern Gaza Strip, as part of the preparation of the area for the next stages of combat, the IDF said. As part of the activity, the forces located and attacked many terrorists, destroyed terrorist infrastructures, anti-tank positions, and carried out work to organize the area. The troops left the area at the end of the mission.

The Givati Brigade, which is part of the 162nd Armored Division, is reported to have returned from the raid without having suffered any casualties.

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1717403162485629277 https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1717401249199329634

A video released by the IDF shows armored vehicles, including at least a dozen Merkava main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles  some with cope cage overhead anti-drone protection  moving through a sandy border zone. The column includes an armored bulldozer that is seen demolishing part of a raised bank. The vehicles cross through an opening in the Gaza border wall and tanks open fire on a nearby built-up area. Explosions are seen ripping through several buildings.

Through the raid, we eliminated terrorists, neutralized threats, dismantled explosives, neutralized ambushes, in order to enable the next stages of the war for the ground forces, said Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari.

While this is not the first time that the IDF has entered Gaza since the latest conflict began on October 7, it certainly appears to be the most significant in terms of scale. Israels Army Radio said the overnight action was the biggest incursion of the current war.

https://twitter.com/i24NEWS_EN/status/1717415962863972861

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday night that Israel was preparing for a ground invasion of Gaza.

All Hamas members are dead men, Netanyahu said in a televised address. Above ground, underground, in Gaza, and outside Gaza.

https://twitter.com/SkyNewsAust/status/1717260407776465050

In other comments, Netanyahu spoke of Israel raining down hellfire on Gaza and noted that a major ground offensive was still going to happen.

I cannot say when, how or how many, nor all the elements that we are taking into account, of which most are not known to the public, he said.

Regardless, with Israeli tanks and troops massed on the border with Gaza, it seems that the countdown to that invasion is now very much on. Reports suggest that Israel has also called up 360,000 reservists.

Photos released today by Getty Images show that the Israeli Air Force is closely monitoring the situation in Gaza, with photos of a Nachshon Shavit surveillance aircraft operating over the border. As you can read about here , the Nachshon Shavit is primarily a signals intelligence (SIGINT) platform, able to eavesdrop on Hamas communications, for example. The Shavit can also detect emissions from threats, including hostile radars and drones, which can then be targeted.

An Israeli Air Force Nachshon Shavit surveillance aircraft over the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip on October 26, 2023. Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images

Meanwhile, there are various factors that complicate exactly when Israel might launch such an offensive in Gaza.

The U.S. request to delay an invasion so it can reinforce its air defense capabilities in the region are a product of the lingering concerns that the war between Israel and Hamas could also trigger a wider conflict with deeper involvement from Hezbollah and/or Iran.

A photo taken from the southern Israeli city of Sderot on October 26, 2023, shows black smoke billowing over the northern Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images

There have already been repeated attacks on bases where U.S. personnel are stationed in Syria and Iraq. While the Defense Department had said that these drone and rocket assaults only resulted in minor injuries and one contractor's death due to a heart attack, now it's becoming clear that 19 personnel has suffered traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) as a result.

https://twitter.com/laraseligman/status/1717561813380829236?s=20

Then there is the issue of getting more humanitarian aid into Gaza, which many members of the international community are now pushing for, as the situation there for the resident population worsens. Israel has limited the supplies of electricity, water, and food going into Gaza, worsening the conditions of an enclave that was already blockaded since Hamas took power in 2007. The United States is now trying to negotiate a deal to allow foreign nationals trapped in Gaza to leave via the border crossing with Egypt.

Meanwhile, Hamas still holds more than 200 hostages, captured during its incursion into Israel, which killed 1,400 people and injured more than 5,400, according to Israeli officials . So far only four hostages have been released and Israel is facing calls for more time to help negotiate the release of more. Among the hostages are citizens or dual citizens of at least 25 different countries.

https://twitter.com/manniefabian/status/1717454613241090494

Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, as the following videos indicate.

https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1717385499403333976 https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1717477197139542279

Among those airstrikes, the IDF claims it targeted and killed the head of Hamass North Khan Younis rocket array, Hassan al-Abdullah. According to a report in the Times of Israel, the IDF said that it was working on the basis of intelligence provided by the Shin Bet security agency and Military Intelligence Directorate.

The IDF also says that Israeli fighters targeted and killed several more Hamas members today, and destroyed several sites belonging to the militant group.

https://twitter.com/manniefabian/status/1717507108428550517

On the Palestinian side, officials claim that at least 7,028 people have been killed and more than 17,400 injured in strikes on Gaza since Israel launched its military response to the Hamas incursion.

These claims have not been independently verified. Yesterday, President Joe Biden said he had no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using for the death toll, in response to which the Council on American-Islamic Relations said it was deeply disturbed by Bidens comments.

Videos from Israel also indicate that there has been no let-up in the rocket attacks launched from the Gaza Strip, with the Iron Dome air defense systems again seen in action. The Iron Dome, which the IDF first declared operational in 2011, is mainly used to counter rockets, mortar rounds, and artillery shells but has also capabilities against cruise missiles and drones.

https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1717500263139795164

Hamas also claims to have used its most powerful, largest rocket with a far greater range than its usual fare  the Ayyash-250. Israel confirmed the launch of a longer-range rocket yesterday but said it fell harmlessly into an unpopulated area.

This is a developing story. We will provide updates when there is new information to report about the Israel-Hamas war.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli ground forces operated within the northern Gaza Strip on Thursday, attacking multiple Hamas targets before withdrawing, the military said in a statement on what Israel's Army Radio described as the biggest incursion of the current war.

Video of the overnight action issued by the military showed armoured vehicles proceeding through a sandy border zone. A bulldozer is seen levelling part of a raised bank, tanks fire shells, and explosions are seen near or amid a row of damaged buildings.

The military statement posted online said the incursion was carried out "in preparation for the next stages of combat", a possible reference to the large-scale invasion that Israeli leaders have threatened as part of the war to destroy Hamas.

"The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory," the military statement added.

Israel began localised ground incursions on Sunday as the war, triggered by an Oct 7 cross-border rampage by Hamas gunmen, entered its third week. Israel's Army Radio described Thursday's incursion as the biggest yet.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas in Gaza.

(Reporting by Dan Williams; Editing by Clarence Fernandez and Miral Fahmy)
The US says its fighter jets have struck two Iranian facilities in Syria, after repeated attacks on US coalition forces in the region by an Iran-backed militia in the past week.

A US official said the strikes were not carried out in coordination with Israel, which has been engaged in its own clashes with Iran-backed Hezbollah forces on the border with Lebanon.

Earlier Gazas ministry of health published a list of names of 7,000 people it says have been killed by Israel in the last three weeks.

The Hamas list - which has not been verified - is more than 200 pages long and includes the age and gender of the victims.

On Wednesday, US president Joe Biden said he had no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using for the death toll.

Israel says that more than 1,400 people were killed in the Hamas attacks on 7 October that sparked the latest wave of violence in the war-torn region.

Key Points

Israel conducts overnight raid in Gaza with tanks

More than 750 Gazans killed in one day, says health ministry

Hezbollah, Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders discuss how to achieve 'victory'

Israel calls for UN chiefs resignation

Aid workers could be forced to stop work due to fuel blockade, UN warns

US will not be spared from this fire, warns Iran foreign minister

06:59 , Namita Singh

On Thursday, Irans foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations that if Israels retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesnt end, then the United States will not be spared from this fire.

I say frankly to the American statesmen, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome (an)expansion of the war in the region. But if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, he told a meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the Middle East.

People gather amid the destruction in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City on 26 October 2023, as battles continue between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas group (AFP via Getty Images)

One way Iran projects power is by arming and funding militant groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen and Shiite militias in Iraq.

In the last such known US retaliation, the US military carried out multiple air strikes in Syria on 23 March against Iran-aligned groups it blamed for a drone attack that killed an American contractor, wounded another and hurt five US troops.

Biden sent message warning Irans Khamenei against targeting US troops

06:52 , Namita Singh

President Joe Biden has sent a rare message to Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning Tehran against targeting US personnel in the Middle East, the White House said on Thursday after a spate of attacks on American forces in the region.

There was a direct message relayed, White House spokesperson John Kirby said at a news briefing, declining to elaborate.

US officials want to avoid a wider conflict in the Middle East following the 7 October attack by the militant Hamas group on Israel that killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

About 900 additional US troops are headed to the Middle East or have recently arrived there to bolster air defenses to protect US personnel amid a surge in attacks in the region by Iran-affiliated groups, the Pentagon said.

US troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the past week, it added.

US fighter jets strike Syria after attacks by Iran-backed militia

06:43 , Namita Singh

Two US fighter jets struck weapons and ammunition facilities in Syria on Friday in what Washington said was a retaliation for attacks on US forces by an Iran-backed militia.

Joe Biden ordered strikes on the two facilities used by Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps and militia forces it backs, the Pentagon said, warning the US will take additional measures if attacks by Irans proxies continue.

US and coalition troops have been attacked at least 19 times in Iraq and in Syria by Iran-backed forces in the past week, the US officials said. Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Lebanons Hezbollah are all backed by Tehran.

Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations on Thursday that if Israels offensive against Hamas did not stop, the United States will not be spared from this fire.

The US air strikes took place at roughly 4.30am on Friday in Syria near Abu Kamal, a Syrian town on the border with Iraq, and were carried out by two F-16 fighter jets using precision munitions, a US defence official said.

These precision self-defence strikes are a response to a series of ongoing and mostly unsuccessful attacks against US personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups that began on 17 October, US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.

These Iranian-backed attacks against US forces are unacceptable and must stop, Mr Austin said.

Explainer: What is Gazas ministry of health and how does it calculate death toll?

06:06 , Jane Dalton

Doctors scribble on notepads in overflowing morgues, struggling to account for bodies trapped under rubble and tossed in hastily dug mass graves. Yet the Gaza-based Ministry of Health continues to tally casualty numbers:

EXPLAINER: What is Gaza's Ministry of Health and how does it calculate the war's death toll?

Republican senators want to separate Israel funding from Ukraine aid

05:05 , Jane Dalton

A group of conservatives in the US Senate are pushing to drive a wedge between military aid for Ukraine and Israel at a time when passing legislation to support the former seems more uncertain than ever:

Republican senators want to separate Israel funding from Ukraine aid

Israel claims to have killed Hamas spy chief

04:04 , Jane Dalton

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Hamas massacre  Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit.

The military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Shadi Barud, Deputy Head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate has been eliminated by an IDF aerial strike.



He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis.



We will continue to strike and eliminate Hamas  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

New photos show destruction as Israel tanks raid Gaza

03:03 , Jane Dalton

An online geolocating platform has posted photos of military vehicles and identified the location of Israels tanks at the northern border of the Gaza strip:

Gaza map shows scale of destruction of tiny strip as Israel tanks raid north

Hostages families stage demonstration in Tel Aviv

02:02 , Jane Dalton

Family members of the Israeli hostages who were kidnapped and taken to the Gaza Strip held a demonstration calling for their government to bring them back:

(Getty Images)

The evidence on who is to blame for Gaza hospital bomb

01:01 , Jane Dalton

Hamas blame the deaths on an Israeli airstrike; Israel blames a jihadist groups failed rocket:

Who is to blame for Gaza hospital bomb - we scrutinise the evidence

EU leaders stress Israels right to defend itself

Friday 27 October 2023 00:02 , Jane Dalton

Leaders of the European Unions 27 nations have emphasised Israels right to defend itself in line with international law and international humanitarian law.

The summit in Brussels was the leaders first in-person meeting since the attack that prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

In their declaration, the leaders also repeated a call for Hamas to immediately release all hostages without any precondition.

They reiterated their previous condemnation in the strongest possible terms of the 7 October assault on Israel by Hamas.

The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations, the declaration also said.

In pictures: Lights memorial for the kidnapped

Thursday 26 October 2023 23:01 , Jane Dalton

A display of lights signifying those abducted by Hamas light the sky in Jerusalem:

(EPA)

(EPA)

(EPA)

Reporter whose family were killed felt duty to continue working

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:30 , Jane Dalton

An Al Jazeera reporter who was on air when he was told his wife and children had been killed in an Israeli airstrike has spoken of why he has continued working despite his agony.

Wael Al-Dahdouh said: Thank you for all your solidarity and condolences and prayers. They were really important ... I felt it was my duty to get back to work as quickly as possible, despite everything.

As you can see, the firing is going on everywhere...

I felt that it was my duty, despite the pain and the open wound, to get back in front of the camera and to communicate with you on social media as soon as possible.

UK Border Force set to help Britons escape Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:00 , Jane Dalton

UK Border Force teams are in Egypt to help trapped British nationals escape from Gaza when a crossing is opened, Rishi Sunak has revealed.

Around 200 Briton stuck inside the besieged enclave have been in touch with the Foreign Office, the prime minister said:

UK Border Force in Egypt to help trapped British nationals escape Gaza

EU summit calls for 'humanitarian corridors and pauses' in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:50 , Sam Rkaina

EU leaders agreed at a summit on Thursday to call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and pauses to get urgently-needed aid into Gaza.

The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs, a declaration adopted by the leaders said.

The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations, added the declaration, issued at the summit in Brussels.

Pro-Palestine protesters blockade UK weapons factory

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:00 , Jane Dalton

Union members blockaded a weapons factory in Kent for six hours, in protest over the war in Israel. The protesters included health workers, teachers and academics:

Pro-Palestine protestors block UK weapons factory in demonstration over Israel war

Palestinian authorities release list of 7,000 people they say have been killed

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:59 , Sam Rkaina

Gazas ministry of health has published a list of names of 7,000 people it says have been killed by Israel in the last three weeks.

The list - which has not been verified - is more than 200 pages long and includes the age and gender of the victims.

On Wednesday, US president Joe Biden said he had no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using for the death toll.

Israel says that more than 1,400 people were killed in the Hamas attacks on 7 October that sparked the latest wave of violence in the war-torn region.

Israel says Gaza tank raid is preparation for next stage of combat

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:30 , Bel Trew

Israeli troops, backed by tanks and armoured bulldozers launched a targeted raid into northern Gaza, to prepare for the next stages of combat, the countrys military has said.

The hours-long brigade-level raid, the biggest of a number of raids Israeli forces have made into Gaza recently, comes ahead of a widely anticipated full ground offensive that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed will go ahead.

Israel has also unleashed its heaviest ever bombardment of Gaza, which is home to more than two million people, in retaliation for a bloody attack by Hamas, who stormed communities in southern Israel on 7 October, killing 1,400 people and taking more than 220 hostages.

Ratcheting up its bombing campaign, Israels military said in the last 24 hours alone it had launched 250 airstrikes across Gaza, targeting tunnel shafts and rocket launchers.

Click here for the full story.

Black smoke raise from Eastern Gaza City on Thursday (AP)

Iran says Hamas hostage release depends on freeing Palestinian prisoners

Thursday 26 October 2023 19:00 , Jane Dalton

Irans foreign minister has said Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel but that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the UN General Assembly that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavour, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 still held captive.

Mr Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against the Palestinians.

Irans top diplomat also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime.

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome expansion of the war in the region, he said.

(via REUTERS)

The delays, doubts and diplomacy around an Israeli invasion of Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 18:30 , Kim Sengupta

The Israeli raid into Gaza was not unexpected, such probing operations are normal tactics before a large-scale offensive.

The aim is to degrade the enemys capabilities in sections of the battlespace by destroying defensive positions, including ambush points, sweeping for mines and boobytraps and killing combatants.

The operation was, however, widely publicised, with the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) issuing videos of columns of Merkava tanks entering the territory with drones flying overhead.

Also in the imagery were Caterpillar D9 armoured bulldozers which will play a highly important role in what is likely to lie ahead.

Click here for the full story.

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel (AP)

Press conference about Hamas hostages interrupted by air raid sirens

Thursday 26 October 2023 17:59 , Sam Rkaina

Hamas claims around 50 hostages have been killed' in Israeli airstrikes

Thursday 26 October 2023 17:30 , Sam Rkaina

Hamas has claimed that around 50 hostages have been killed in airstrikes carried out by Israel.

The claim, which has not been verified, was made by an al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson on the terrorist groups Telegram channel on Thursday.

It comes as delegation from Hamas visited Moscow for talks on the release of foreign hostages, including Russian citizens that the militant group is currently holding in Gaza, Russian news agencies reported.

Senior Hamas member Abu Marzouk was among those attending, TASS said.

Contacts were held with him in continuation of the Russian line on the immediate release of foreign hostages in the Gaza Strip. Issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were also discussed, TASS said.

Thursday 26 October 2023 16:30 , Alexander Butler

Hamas representatives are currently visiting Moscow, according Russias foreign ministers spokesperson.

Spokesperson Maria Zakharova did not elaborate further, saying that the ministry will provide more information at a later point.

Meanwhile, state RIA Novosti news agency said the Hamas delegation is led by a member of the groups political wing, Moussa Abu Marzouk.

Up to 3,000 children killed in Gaza, Palestinian UN representative says

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:50 , Alexander Butler

Up to 3000 children have been killed by Israeli airstrikes in Gaza since Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on 7 October, Palestines UN representitive said.

Speaking to the United Nations, Riyad Mansour said the thousands of innocent angels had been killed alongside 1,700 women.

It comes after Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said Israel needs to agree to a full ceasefire in Gaza in order to enable urgently needed humanitarian aid to be brought in to the region.

Qatar remains hopeful all civilian hostages could be released

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:26 , Alexander Butler

Qatar is hopeful all remaining civilian hostages being held captive in Gaza could be released if there is a pause in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Our target is to release all of the civilian hostages. Thats what were working on, and thats what we want to achieve, Dr Mohammed Al Khulaifi, senior negotiator and Qatars minister of state for foreign affairs, told Sky News.

We remain hopeful. We do the best that we can trying to get everyone soon and hopefully we can achieve that goal within the upcoming days.

So far, only four hostages have been released, including an American mother and daughter and two elderly Israeli women.

A woman touches photos of Israelis missing and held captive in Gaza, displayed on a wall in Tel Aviv (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Nine Arab countries condemn Israeli attacks on Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:11 , Alexander Butler

Nine Arab countries have condemned what it described as Israels targeting of civilians and violations of international law in Gaza.

In a joint statement, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Morocco all claimed Israels policies amounted to collective punishment.

It also condemned forced displacement in the region. The right to self defence does not justify breaking the law and neglecting Palestinian rights, the statement said.

              .https://t.co/dgrnMI3xfR pic.twitter.com/Uqrj10ux08     (@bahdiplomatic) October 26, 2023

Israel has not broken international law, UK minister says

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:45 , Alexander Butler

Hero who saved 30 people meets Israeli president

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:43 , Alexander Butler

A hero who saved 30 people during Hamass massacre at a music festival which left 260 people dead has met Israeli president Isaac Herzog.

Youssef Alziadna met with Mr Herzog, who said he was greatly moved to meer him and that he was part of the beautiful face of Israel.

I was greatly moved to meet an Israeli hero in Rahat, Youssef Alziadna, who on that dark day, with extraordinary courage and determination, saved at least 30 young people, Mr Herzog said.

I was greatly moved to meet an Israeli hero in Rahat, Youssef Alziadna, who on that dark day, with extraordinary courage and determination, saved at least 30 young people, including some already wounded, at attack on the music festival in Re'im.



"I am an Israeli citizen and I pic.twitter.com/IjzEAT5iRa    Isaac Herzog (@Isaac_Herzog) October 26, 2023

China set to send 2m in aid to Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:30 , Alexander Butler

China will provide Gaza with 2m in humanitarian aid, according to the China International Development Cooperation Agency.

The aid will include food, medicine and other emergency supplies, it said. It follows an initial 825,000 donation of aid already provided by Beijing.

China has condemned violence and attacks on civilians in the conflict and while its foreign minister Wang Yi has declared Israels actions beyond the scope of self-defence he has not named Hamas in his comments.

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Pictured: Israel and Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:15 , Alexander Butler

Israelis wave the national flag at the Western Wall in Jerusalems Old City (AFP via Getty Images)

A displaced Palestinian girl shows a bowl of potatos at a refugee camp in Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

View of Gaza skyline as ground invasion looms

Thursday 26 October 2023 14:00 , Matt Mathers

Overnight, Israeli tanks rolled across the border into Gaza for what the army described as a limited raid.

Israeli defence officials said the move was designed to clear the ground for an expected ground offensive.

Both Israel and Hamas continue to bomb each other following the latters terror attack on 7 October.

You can watch live footage of the Gaza skyline by following the link below. Warning: the live stream may contain distressing scenes.

Live: View of Gaza skyline as Israel ground invasion looms

Four Labour shadow cabinet members on resignation watch over Starmers Gaza stance

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:45 , Matt Mathers

Keir Starmer is battling to convince Labour MPs he has taken the right stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict  with up to four members of the shadow cabinet said to be on resignation watch last night.

The Labour leader is facing growing unrest among his own MPs, with dozens having signed a motion urging the British government to call for an immediate ceasefire.

Adam Forrest reports:

Four Labour shadow cabinet members on resignation watch over Starmers Gaza stance

Sunak: UK Border Force ready to assist British nationals escaping Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:25 , Matt Mathers

UK Border Force teams are set up in Egypt to quickly assist British nationals to escape from Gaza when a crossing is opened, the Prime Minister has revealed.

Rishi Sunak said he is pushing for a pause in the fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach Palestinians and also create a safer environment for UK citizens to leave the bombarded 25-mile strip.

The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza is the only border point in the territory that is not controlled by Tel Aviv.

Patrick Daly reports:

UK Border Force in position to help get Britons out of Gaza, PM reveals

Turkey wont stay silent on Gaza - Erdogan

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:10 , Matt Mathers

Turkish president Tayyip Erdogan said on Thursday that nobody should expect Turkey to remain silent in the face of the violence in Gaza.

In a speech in Ankara, Erdogan said there was no difference between Gazan, Palestinian, Israeli, and Syrian children in the eyes of Turkey.

He also said Turkey would intensify its efforts with Egypt to get humanitarian aid into Gaza.

(REUTERS)

More than 7,000 Palestinians killed, says Gazan health ministry

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:55 , Alexander Butler

Up to 7,028 Palestinians have been killed since 7 October, according to the Gazan health ministry.

Among the dead were 2,913 children, it said. Yesterday the ministry reported 6,546 deaths, including 2,704 children.

Smoke rises following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City (EPA)

Hamas calls for worldwide protests

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:35 , Alexander Butler

Hamas has called on free people across the globe to continue mass activities condemning Israeli aggression and hostilities.

We call on our Arab and Islamic nations, and the free people across the globe to spare no effort and continue their mobilisation and mass activities aiming at exerting pressure on the Israeli occupation to condemn this brutal aggression and halt its atrocities, it said on the Telegram messaging app.

Israel says it is targeting terrorists in Gaza and any suffering of Palestinian civilians is a result of Hamass terror attack which left 1,400 Israelis dead on 7 October.

Palestinians surrounded by dust and rubble after an Israeli airstrike on southern Gaza (REUTERS)

Israel waging war of revenge, Palestine says

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:28 , Alexander Butler

Israel is waging a war of revenge on Gaza aimed at its total destruction, Palestinian Foreign Minister said.

So many wars have taken place in Gaza. This is different. This time its a war of revenge, foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said.

This war has no real objective, rather than the total destruction of every livable place in Gaza. This war is not directed by military plans, there are no norms respected. All international rules of war are violated, he said.

It comes as Israel said its ground forces had pushed into Gaza overnight to attack Hamas targets after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was preparing for a ground invasion of the region.

Israel is waging a war of revenge on Gaza, Palestinian foreign minister Riyad al-Malkik said (AFP via Getty Images)

China's response to Hamas attacks 'disturbing', Taiwan says

Thursday 26 October 2023 12:02 , Alexander Butler

Israels envoy in Taipei said that Taiwan has been a good friend whose support Israel has appreciated, but Chinas response to the attack by Hamas militants has been disturbing.

Israel, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Chinese-claimed Taiwan. But Taiwan views Israel as an important democratic partner.

Taipei moved quickly to condemn the 7 October attack on the country by Palestinian Hamas militants and offered Taiwans strong support and sympathy to Israel.

Speaking to reporters in Taipei, Israels de facto ambassador Maya Yaron praised the strong support from Taiwans government, including from President Tsai Ing-wen.

Taiwan is really a good friend for Israel and we truly appreciate everything that we receive. Im in close touch with the foreign minister, I think people are very concerned, she said.

China has condemned violence and attacks on civilians in the conflict and while its foreign minister Wang Yi has declared Israels actions beyond the scope of self-defence he has not named Hamas in his comments.

Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-wen. Taiwan was quick to condemn Hamass attack on Israel (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

UK border force officials sent to Egypt to help evacuate British citizens

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:41 , Kate Devlin

Border Force officials have been sent to Egypt to help evacuate British citizens currently trapped in Gaza who manage to cross the border, Rishi Sunak has said.

Around 200 British citizens stuck in the besieged enclave have been in touch with the Foreign Office, the prime minister said, as Israel continues to gear up for a ground invasion.

But the UK is hopeful at some point they will be able to leave via the Rafah crossing into Egypt, through which aid is currently being brought into Gaza.

He said he had discussed their plight with the leaders of both Egypt and Israel and were very keen to be able to bring them out and bring them home.

Israel denies bowing to US pressure

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:18 , Alexander Butler

Israel has not bowed to US pressure to delay its ground invasion into Gaza, according to a senior war cabinet minister.

We are making decisions only based on our own interests, minister Benny Gantz said.

It comes after US officials suggested the Biden administration had advised Israel to delay its ground invasion of Gaza, hoping to buy time for hostage negotiations and allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Israel has not bowed to US pressure to delay its ground invasion into Gaza, minister claims (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Queen of Jordan: Is the word terrorist reserved exclusively for muslims and Arabs?

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:10 , Alexander Butler

Palestinian minister urges Israel to agree to ceasefire

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:59 , Alexander Butler

Israel needs to agree to a full ceasefire in Gaza in order enable urgently needed humanitarian aid to be brought in, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said.

It comes as British and EU leaders have called for for pauses in bombardments into and out of Gaza to enable access for aid.

But Mr al-Maliki said this proposal was unacceptable, as it would not ensure aid could come in and water and electricity supplies be reinstated.

Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki has called for an immediate ceasefire (REUTERS)

It will take years to restore security in southern Israel, minister claims

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:35 , Alexander Butler

It will take years to restore security to southern Israel following Hamass massacre which left 1,400 Israelis dead after the group breached a high tech security fence on 7 October.

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz said that military and other measures taking years would be required to restore security to the region.

Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz (AP)

International silence on Gaza massacre embarrassing, Erdogan says

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:27 , Alexander Butler

Israeli airstrikes on Gaza amount to a massacre, Turkeys president Tayyip Erdogan told Pope Francis.

Mr Erdogan claimed the silence of the international community was embarrassing.

It comes after he accused those providing unlimited support for Israel of perpetrating the killing of civilians in Gaza.

Israels attacks on Gaza, for both itself and those supporting them, amount to murder and mental illness, he told lawmakers from his ruling AK Party.

Israeli airstrikes on Gaza amount to a massacre, Turkeys president Tayyip Erdogan said (AP)

Pictured: Life and death in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:10 , Alexander Butler

A woman mourns behind a gate next to the bodies of those killed in Israeli airstrikes (REUTERS)

Palestinian musician Jawaher al-Aqraa plays a violin as she stands in the kitchen of her home in Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

Number of hostages in Gaza rises to 224, IDF says

Thursday 26 October 2023 10:00 , Alexander Butler

The confirmed number of people held hostage in the Gaza Strip since 7 October is now 224, according to the Israeli Defence Forces.

A woman touches photos of Israelis missing and held captive in Gaza, displayed on a wall in Tel Aviv (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

IDF strike terrorist cells and anti-tank missile launch posts in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 09:40 , Alexander Butler

The Israeli Defence Forces said it struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts in its overnight raid of Gaza.

In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza. IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.

The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory, it wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.



IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.



The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Putin warns conflict could spread beyond Middle East

Thursday 26 October 2023 09:30 , Alexander Butler

Russian president Vladimir Putin has warned the Israel-Hamas conflict could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.

Our task today, our main task, is to stop the bloodshed and violence, Mr Putin said, according to a Kremlin transcript.

Otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East.

Russian president Vladimir Putin said the conflict could spill over far beyond the Middle East (AP)

Pictured: Israeli tanks in Gaza during raid

Thursday 26 October 2023 09:00 , Alexander Butler

A targeted raid in northern Gaza with Israeli tanks and infantry last night (Israeli Army/AFP via Getty Image)

Israeli tanks enter northern Gaza in a targeted raid on the region (IDF)

UK to hold Cobra meeting about British hostages

Thursday 26 October 2023 08:45 , Alexander Butler

The UK will hold a Cobra meeting today to discuss five UK nationals still missing in the Middle East following Hamass deadly attack on Israel.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said he would be chairing the meeting, while calling for for a pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas so humanitarian aid can enter Gaza.

However, Mr Dowden ruled out a ceasefire. We shouldnt be saying to the Israel government youve got to stop action in a way that wouldnt enable it to eliminate this threat, he told Sky News.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will chair a Cobra meeting today (PA)

Al Jazeera journalist finds out his wife, son and daughter killed in Israeli airstrike while on air

Thursday 26 October 2023 08:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

An Al Jazeera reporter covering the war in Israel was on air when he was told his wife and children had been killed in an airstrike.

Wael Al-Dahdouh reported on the same attack in Gaza on Wednesday evening without knowing his family had been killed, in an area they had fled to for safety after Israels warning of a ground incursion.

The Gaza bureau chief lost his son Mahmoud, a senior in high school, and his seven-year-old daughter Sham in the blast, his network said.

Palestinians inspect the damage of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City," his network said.

Barney Davis reports.

Journalist finds out wife, son and daughter killed in Israeli airstrike while on air

Rishi Sunak backs pauses in fighting in Gaza but rejects ceasefire calls

Thursday 26 October 2023 08:15 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Rishi Sunak has called for temporary pauses in the conflict between Israel and Hamas to allow British nationals and hostages to be freed and for humanitarian aid to be provided in the Gaza Strip.

But the prime minister continued on Wednesday to reject calls for a longer ceasefire, with Downing Street arguing the move would only serve to benefit Hamas.

Mr Sunak said specific pauses are necessary for humanitarian purposes as Israel pummels the small strip of land, which is home to more than two million Palestinians.

He said such breaks had been discussed at the United Nations as he announced that an RAF plane is flying to Egypt with 21 tonnes of humanitarian supplies.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a ceasefire, as five UK nationals remain missing, some of whom are believed to be hostages in Gaza.

More here.

Rishi Sunak backs pauses in fighting in Gaza but rejects ceasefire calls

UN says Gaza fuel delivery needed now or support could stop

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:45 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The UN has warned that unless there is an immediate delivery of fuel to Gaza, their support to Gazas hospitals, bakeries, and water systems can stop tomorrow.

World leaders including UK prime minister Rishi Sunak have joined urgent calls for temporary pauses in the fighting to allow delivery of aid and for foreign citizens to evacuate, as hospitals across Gaza shut down due to critical shortages.

The health ministry in the besieged enclave  run by Hamas  has said the healthcare system has collapsed.

Speaking to The Independent, Tamara el-Rifae, a spokesperson for UNRWA, the UNs Palestinian refugee agency, said that unless fuel arrives imminently their critical support across many facets of life in Gaza may stop.

There has to be a way to get the fuel in otherwise everything can stop tomorrow, or we have to make extremely hard choices, she said.

Bel Trew reports from Tel Aviv.

UN says Gaza fuel delivery needed now or support could stop as supplies run out

Ceasefire calls just asking Israel not to go after Hamas, says UK defence secretary

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:31 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

UK defence secretary Grant Shapps has said the call for a ceasefire is to essentially say dont go after Hamas.

He said a ground invasion of Gaza would fall under Israels right to defend itself as long as the people that they are going after are the Hamas terrorists.

He told Sky News: To call for a ceasefire is to essentially say to Israel hadnt gone through that absolutely horrific, horrendous terrorist attack just two and a half weeks ago.

You know, dont go after Hamas. And I dont think anyone thinks that would be right, because they have the perfect right to go after Hamas under international law.

Mr Shapps also said UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres needed to withdraw his remarks suggesting the Hamas attacks should be seen in the context of years of suffocating occupation.

He told ITV: I certainly thought his remarks were incredibly inappropriate and I really do hope that he finds a way to withdraw them or clarify them.

Adam Forrest reports.

More than 750 Gazans killed in one day, says health ministry

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

More than 750 people in Gaza were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day, Gazas health ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, said on Wednesday.

Since the 7 October Hamas massacre, Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the ministry.

Hospitals in Gaza struggled to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources as the death toll soared due to Israels constant bombardment of the Strip.

Workers pulled dead and wounded civilians, including many children, out of landscapes of rubble in cities across the territory.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

Queen Rania of Jordan attacks the West over double standards on Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:15 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Queen Rania of Jordan has accused Western countries of aiding and abetting the killing of Palestinians by supporting Israels war against Hamas.

The monarch also accused those backing Israels bombing of Gaza in response to Hamass terror attack as an example of Western double standards.

The people all around the Middle East, including in Jordan, we are just shocked and disappointed by the worlds reaction to this catastrophe that is unfolding, she told CNN.

In the last couple of weeks, we have seen a glaring double standard in the world.

Matt Mathers has more.

Queen Rania of Jordan accuses West of double standards response to Israel-Gaza war

WHO urges Hamas to release all hostages on health grounds

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:00 , Barney Davis

The World Health Organization has demanded Hamas to release all of the hostages they are holding on humanitarian and health grounds.

Hamas must provide signs of life, proof of provision of health care and the immediate release of the kidnapped Israelis, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus demanded.

(L-R) British-Israeli Ayelet Svatitzky whose mother and brother were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nirim, British-Israeli David Barr whose sister-in-law Naomi was murdered on her morning run and British-Israeli Ofri Bibas Levy whose brother Jordan was taken hostage (PA)

Some of the children, women anl elderly are in desperate need of urgent and sustained care and treatment. The mental health trauma that the abducted, and the families, are facing is acute and psychosocial support is of great importance.

The UN health agency would do all we can to support the health and humanitarian needs of those being held captive, he added.

Israel conducts overnight raid in Gaza with tanks

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:38 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Israeli troops moved armoured vehicles into the Gaza Strip in an overnight "targetted raid" to attack Hamas bases ahead of an anticipated large-scale invasion.

"Overnight, the IDF conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat," the Israeli military said in a statement.

Videos of the overnight operation showed a bulldozer levelling part of a raised bank and tanks firing shells, while explosions were seen near or amid a row of damaged buildings.

The military said the raid was carried out in preparation for the next stages of combat as the Israeli defence forces prepared for a large-scale invasion that Israeli leaders have threatened as part of the war to destroy Hamas.

Following the raid, the "soldiers exited the area", the military added.

Israel began localised ground incursions on Sunday as the war, triggered by a cross-border rampage by Hamas gunmen, entered its third week.

Israel's Army Radio described Thursday's incursion as the biggest yet.

File: Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel on 13 October (AP)

UN says fuel shortage may bring aid operations to a halt

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The UN agency in Gaza on Wednesday said it would have to halt lifeline aid operations within a day if fuel is not delivered.

Israel has refused to allow fuel to enter Gaza as it laid siege on the Strip following Hamass 7 October attack.Were probably talking a day, said spokesperson Tamara Alrifai for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) told CNN when asked how long would the agency function without fuel.

We have already warned that if fuel runs out by tonight or tomorrow, we as UNWRA, the largest UN agency in Gaza, will no longer be able to work.The agency initially said it would have to halt operations on Wednesday evening.

After the UN agency posted its warning on social media on Tuesday, the Israeli Defence Forces reposted it, claiming that the Hamas militants have more than 500,000 litres of fuel in tanks inside besieged Gaza.

Ask Hamas if you can have some, the IDF wrote.

In Pics | Deaths and destruction in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:10 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Palestinians walk by buildings destroyed in the Israeli bombardment on al-Zahra, on the outskirts of Gaza City (AP)

Palestinian cry outside a hospital in Deir Al-Balah, south of the Gaza Strip (AP)

UN warn of lack of fuel in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 06:00 , Barney Davis

The UN agency for refugees in Gaza is hours away from running out of fuel and is desperately trying to get a shipment around an Israeli blockade.

Juliette Touma, the UNRWAs director of communications, told Al Jazeera that the coming hours were critical.

UN-flagged fuel trucks move towards border crossing in Gaza (REUTERS/Ibraheem Abu Mustafa)

If we do not get this shipment of fuel tonight, [by] tomorrow morning, Thursday morning, we are going to take very tough decisions, depriving people, depriving the communities that we serve, from humanitarian assistance, Touma said.

Without fuel, the UNRWA would be unable to send wheat to bakeries, assist medical facilities and keep water pumping stations running, she said.

Its a chain, Touma said. Fuel for Gaza is life.

328 foreign nationals killed in war, says Israel

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:51 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

More than half the estimated 220 hostages held by Palestinian group Hamas have foreign passports from 25 different countries, including 54 Thai nationals, the Israeli government said.

The government said 328 people from 40 countries were confirmed as dead or missing after the surprise 7 October attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel. In all, an estimated 1,400 people were killed in the assault

.Israel said 138 of the hostages had foreign passports, including 15 Argentinians, 12 Germans, 12 Americans, six French and six Russians.

Many were believed to have had dual Israeli nationality, however, some, like the Thais and five Nepalese hostages, almost certainly did not. There was also one Chinese hostage, one Sri Lankan, two from Tanzania and two from the Philippines.

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:30 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Israeli reservists have criticised Benjamin Netanyahus son Yair for remaining in Miami rather than joining the fight against Hamas.

The 32-year-old is living in Florida, where he moved earlier this year after he was sued for defamation in Israel over social media posts against a political activist.

Around 360,000 reservists have been called up in Israel following the bloody 7 October attack on Israel launched by Hamas fighters from Gaza.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has received fierce criticism in Israel over the shocking surprise attack, which left more than 1,400 civilians and soldiers dead and hundreds more taken hostage.

Graeme Massie reports.

Israeli reservists question absence of Netanyahus son who remains in Miami

Israeli strikes kill 6,500 so far - Health ministry says

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:00 , Barney Davis

Israel kept up its strikes on Hamas targets in Gaza as it prepared for a ground invasion while more Palestinian civilians were killed and world powers at the United Nations failed to secure plans to deliver critical humanitarian aid.

Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed over 6,500 people, the health ministry in the Hamas-run strip said on Wednesday. Reuters has been unable to independently verify casualty figures.

(EPA)

Over 7,600 rockets have been fired towards Israel since October 7 out of Gaza, according to Israeli government data, while there have been repeated clashes along the northern border.

Israels Magen David Adom ambulance service said two people were being treated for shrapnel and glass wounds after a rocket fired from Gaza on Wednesday night struck the central Israeli city of Rishon Letzion, south of Tel Aviv.

Florida orders state universities to disband pro-Palestinian student group

Thursday 26 October 2023 04:44 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

Florida governor Ron DeSantiss administration has ordered state universities to ban a pro-Palestinian student organisation from campuses, saying it illegally backs Hamas militants who attacked Israel earlier this month.

As Israels attacks on Gaza have intensified, some college students have expressed solidarity with Palestinians, resulting in swift censure from some Jewish academics and even some prospective employers. But Florida has gone further, saying Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) is supporting a terrorist organisation.

State university system chancellor Ray Rodrigues wrote to university presidents urging and directing them to disband chapters of SJP. He quoted the national groups declaration that Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not in solidarity with this movement.

It is a felony under Florida law to knowingly provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organization, Mr Rodrigues said in the letter.

The US state department designated Hamas a terrorist group in 1997.

UN Security Council fails again to address Israel-Hamas war

Thursday 26 October 2023 04:26 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The UN Security Council failed again on Wednesday to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival US and Russian resolutions.

The resolution drafted by the US, Israels closest ally, would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defence, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza.

In Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council, 10 countries voted in favor, Russia, China and the UAE voted against, and Brazil and Mozambique abstained. The resolution was not adopted because permanent council members Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution, which was then put to a vote, would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and unequivocally condemned Hamass 7 October attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza.

Four countries voted in favor  Russia, China, UAE and Gabon. The US and the UK voted against, while nine countries abstained. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

UK government calling for pause in Israel-Hamas conflict

Thursday 26 October 2023 04:06 , Alisha Rahaman Sarkar

The UK government is calling for a pause in conflict in the Middle East for humanitarian reasons, but has rejected growing calls for a ceasefire.

Rishi Sunak has said temporary breaks in the violence could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed and aid to be provided to the Gaza Strip.

But ministers reiterated their support for Israel, with defence secretary Grant Shapps saying an expected ground invasion would fall under the countrys right to defend itself as long as the action targeted Hamas.

More here.

UK Government calling for pause in Israel-Hamas conflict

Israeli strike wipes out reporters family on air

Thursday 26 October 2023 04:00 , Barney Davis

An Israeli strike on Wednesday killed the wife, son and young daughter of Al Jazeera Arabics bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh.

Footage aired on the Qatar-based TV network showed the veteran journalist, still wearing his blue body armor marked press, weeping over his sons corpse on a hospital floor.

They take vengeance on us through our children? he sobbed.

(Al Jazeera)

Another son, Yehia, was seriously wounded, and Dahdouhs grandson was also declared dead two hours later, the network reported. Other relatives survived the Israeli strike, including a toddler granddaughter.

This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians, Dahdouh, looking stunned, told Al Jazeera as he left the hospital.

The media network released a statement condemning what it called an indiscriminate assault on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. The camp is south of the area Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate.

In Gaza, Al Jazeeras Youmna Elsayed told the network: Its heartbreaking to be reporting about Waels family and to see how broken he is.

Thursday 26 October 2023 03:00 , Barney Davis

Speaker Mike Johnson called up a resolution supporting Israel in his first action as leader of the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, after a three-week leadership vacuum that left the Republican-led chamber unable to respond to the Middle East crisis.

The first bill Im going to bring to this floor in a little while will be in support of our dear friend Israel and we are overdue in getting that done, Johnson said as he accepted the speakership.

The House backed the resolution by 412 to 10, with six members voting present, reflecting traditional strong support in Congress for the Jewish state. The non-binding measure reaffirms U.S. commitment to Israel and calls on Hamas to immediately cease attacks and release every hostage.

Mike Johnson is the new House Speaker (REUTERS)

The House had been without a speaker since October 3, when eight Republicans joined Democrats to oust Kevin McCarthy, the first time a U.S. speaker has been removed from the position. Johnson, a social conservative with little leadership experience, was elected speaker on Wednesday.

Biden stresses 'path to peace' in Israel-Gaza crisis

Thursday 26 October 2023 02:00 , Barney Davis

US President Joe Biden said the Israel-Gaza crisis should have a path to peace including independent states for the Israelis and Palestinians and integrating Israel among its Arab neighbors.

Biden opened a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese by saying U.S. support for Israels defence is ironclad, but the parties need to think about the way forward in the region once the Gaza crisis is resolved.

(AP)

Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and in peace, said Biden.

Biden said he believed one reason Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,400 people on Oct. 7, was to prevent normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.

Israeli airstrikes in retaliation have killed over 6,500 people, the health ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said on Wednesday. Reuters has not been able to independently verify the casualty figures of either side.

BBC boss Tim Davie grilled by Tory MPs amid row over coverage of Israel-Hamas war

Thursday 26 October 2023 01:00 , Sam Rkaina

The UKs immigration minister has told the head of the BBC he has never been so disappointed in the corporation in his life over its refusal to call Hamas terrorists.

Robert Jenrick challenged BBC director-general Tim Davie to use the term during a closed-doors meeting of the 1922 Committee on Wednesday evening.

The corporation has been criticised since the deadly 7 October attack by Hamas on Israelis, in which more than 1,400 people were killed and around 220 taken hostage, for avoiding the terrorists label. A number of Tory MPs and Israeli president Isaac Herzog are among those angered by the decision.

Ive never been so disappointed in the BBC as I have been this past fortnight, Mr Jenrick is understood to have said. I worry that the organisation has lost the confidence of many people and in particular the British Jewish community.

According to Telegraph journalist Ben Riley-Smith, the minister went on: That loss of confidence began with the BBCs refusal to call Hamas terrorists. Will you reconsider that, and change your editorial policy?

Mr Jenricks challenge was rebuffed, as Mr Davie said nobody had banned the word terrorist.

Tim Davie (PA Wire)

From Lebanon to Iran to Syria  the threat of wider Middle East war is growing by the day

Wednesday 25 October 2023 23:59 , Bel Trew

At Israels northern border, the metronome of artillery and rocket fire hammers home one of the biggest concerns right now: that tensions here could turn the conflict with Gaza into a region-wide war for the Middle East.

Cross-border battles between the Israeli military and Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group allied to Hamas and supported by Iran, are steadily increasing in step with the rising ferocity of Israels bombardment of Gaza.

Despite the fact that it doesnt feel like anyone wants a full-scale regional war, the security situation is rapidly deteriorating to the point where posturing about war might make it inevitable.

On Wednesday, the top leadership of Hezbollah, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad met in Beirut. All in what Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has called the axis of resistance, the militants were said to have discussed how to achieve a real victory for the resistance.

Click here for the full story.

Israeli forces near the border with Lebanon (AFP via Getty Images)

War cabinet to decide when Israel invades, says Netanyahu

Wednesday 25 October 2023 23:20 , Jane Dalton

Israel is preparing a ground invasion of Gaza, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said - and the decision on when forces would go in would be taken by the governments special war cabinet.

But he declined to provide any details on the timing or other information about the operation.

We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning, Mr Netanyahu said in a televised statement.

Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be.

Israeli tanks and troops are massed on the border with Gaza awaiting orders. Israel has called up some 360,000 reservists.

International pressure is growing to delay any invasion of Gaza, not least because of hostages. More than half the estimated 220 hostages held by Hamas have foreign passports from 25 different countries, the Israeli government said.

The Wall Street Journal, citing US and Israeli officials, reported that Israel had agreed to delay invading Gaza for now so that the United States could rush missile defences to the region to protect US forces there, reflecting its concern about the Gaza war spreading around the Middle East.

Wednesday 25 October 2023 22:21 , Sam Rkaina

Israel is preparing a ground invasion of Gaza, prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated tonight - but refused to say when.

Speaking in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said the decision on when forces would go into Gaza would be taken by the governments special war cabinet.

We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning, he said in a televised statement.

Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be.

The cabinet is working around the clock, he added.

Israeli tanks and troops are massed on the border with Gaza awaiting orders. Israel has called up some 360,000 reservists.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

In pictures: Women and children rescued in Gaza City after Israeli airstrikes

Wednesday 25 October 2023 22:15 , Sam Rkaina

A Palestinian man carries a wounded woman after recovering her from the rubble of a destroyed area following Israeli air strikes in Gaza City (EPA)

A Palestinian man carries a wounded girl after recovering her from the rubble (EPA)

Palestinians try to put out a fire amid search for survivors (EPA)

Russia and China veto US resolution for pause in violence

Wednesday 25 October 2023 21:13 , Sam Rkaina

Russia and China have vetoed a US-drafted U.N. Security Council resolution on the war between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The draft aimed to address a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for pauses the violence to allow aid access.

The United Arab Emirates also voted no, while 10 members voted in favor and two abstained.

United Nations Security Council vote on a new U.S. resolution on the conflict between Israel and Palestinians, which was vetoed by Russia and China (AP)

Biden condemns retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank

Wednesday 25 October 2023 21:08 , Sam Rkaina

President Joe Biden has spoken out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the Hamas attacks on Israel.

He also said he was redoubling his commitment to working on a two-state solution to end the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to pouring gasoline on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack.It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now,

Biden said at the start of a news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was being honored with a state visit to Washington.

Settler violence against Palestinians has intensified since the Hamas attack, and Palestinians have been killed by settlers, according to Palestinian authorities. Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing them to evacuate to other areas.

The West Bank Protection Consortium, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations and donor countries, including the European Union, says hundreds of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since Oct. 7. Thats in addition to over 1,100 displaced since 2022.

Deadly violence has been surging in the West Bank as the Israeli military pursues Palestinian militants in the aftermath of the Hamas attack from Gaza.

President Joe Biden (AP)

Starmer urged by Muslim MPs to back Gaza ceasefire

Wednesday 25 October 2023 19:00 , Sam Rkaina

Muslim Labour MPs urged Sir Keir Starmer to call for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as he sought to sooth their anger over his position on the conflict.

The Labour leader joined Rishi Sunak and the US in backing humanitarian pauses to deliver aid to Gaza as it faces a bombardment of airstrikes from Israel ahead of a potential ground invasion.

But Sir Keir has not backed the longer-lasting ceasefire as he supported Israels right to defend itself, a firm stance which triggered consternation within the party after he initially backed cutting off power and water in Gaza.

The comments, which he has since rowed back, prompted resignations among Labour councillors and angered the partys MPs, even those on the frontbenches as shadow ministers.

Multiple sources at the meeting  held between Sir Keir, his deputy Angela Rayner, and around a dozen Muslim MPs, including shadow minister Afzal Khan  described it as a constructive exercise in which they expressed their grievances and those of their constituents.

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer (PA Wire)

Al Jazeera says family of one of its journalists killed in Israeli strike on Gaza

Wednesday 25 October 2023 18:30 , Sam Rkaina

Al Jazeera TV said the family members of its correspondent in Gaza - his wife, daughter and son - were killed in an Israeli air strike on Gaza on Wednesday night.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli military on the incident.

The channel posted lived footage of its reporter Wael Al Dahdouh crying as he saw them laying lifeless in hospital.

Warnings over Israel carve out from bid to ban public bodies imposing boycotts

Wednesday 25 October 2023 18:00 , Sam Rkaina

The Government must treat Israel the same as other countries in legislation aimed at banning public bodies from imposing their own boycotts, a Tory former cabinet minister has said.

Kit Malthouse said ministers risk playing into the antisemitism that has increased in the UK in recent weeks by including a carve out in the proposals for Israel, the West Bank and the occupied Golan Heights.

There were also heated exchanges in the Commons over the Governments decision to continue consideration of the Economic Activity of Public Bodies (Overseas Matters) Bill given increased tensions in the Middle East in light of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Government argues the legislation affirms that UK foreign policy is a matter for the UK Government and not local authorities.

They added it represents a ban on public bodies imposing their own direct or indirect boycotts, disinvestment or sanctions campaigns against other countries.

The Bill allows for the Government to make regulations to exempt certain countries or territories from the restrictions although clause 3.7 does not allow the regulations to exempt Israel, the occupied Palestinian territories or the occupied Golan Heights.

The Government has been critical of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which describes itself as working to end international support for Israels oppression of Palestinians and pressure Israel to comply with international law.

Mr Malthouse has tabled an amendment to remove the prohibition, saying: In carving out Israel, the West Bank and the occupied Golan Heights in the legislation, the Secretary of State (Michael Gove) is, Im afraid, playing into the antisemitism that weve seen rise in this country over the last few weeks.

Starmer issues new statement on Gaza

Wednesday 25 October 2023 17:24 , Sam Rkaina

Keir Starmer has issued a new statement on Gaza saying the amount of aid getting into the war-torn enclave is completely insufficient.

It comes as the Labour party leader faces criticism from British Muslims and members of his own party for his response to the crisis.

You can read the full post below.

Its clear that the amount of aid and essential utilities getting into Gaza is completely insufficient to meet the humanitarian emergency on the ground. pic.twitter.com/gtpSaDnaJY  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) October 25, 2023

Israel rejects Turkeys suggestion Hamas are not terrorists

Wednesday 25 October 2023 16:45 , Alexander Butler

Israel has wholeheartedly rejected the Turkish president Recep Tayyip ErdoAans suggestion Hamas was not a terrorist group.

Israel wholeheartedly rejects the Turkish presidents harsh words about the terrorist organization Hamas, foreign ministry spokesperson Lior Haiat wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Even the Turkish presidents attempt to defend the terrorist organization and his inciting words will not change the horrors that the whole world has seen, Mr Haiat said.

Israel wholeheartedly rejects the Turkish Presidents harsh words about the terrorist organization Hamas.

Hamas is a despicable terrorist organization worse than ISIS that brutally and intentionally murders babies, children, women and the elderly, takes civilians hostage and uses pic.twitter.com/LU4mJGz18v  Lior Haiat  (@LiorHaiat) October 25, 2023

Pictured: Aid loaded on to RAF plane

Wednesday 25 October 2023 16:20 , Alexander Butler

A Royal Air Force C-17 aircraft is loaded with 21 tonnes of aid headed for Gaza (EPA)

Gaza aid on board a Royal Air Force C-17 aircraft before it is sent to Egypt (EPA)

UN Secretary-General shocked by reaction to statement

Wednesday 25 October 2023 15:54 , Alexander Butler

The secretary-general of the United Nations has said he is shocked with the misrepresentations of his statement on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

I am shocked by the misrepresentations by some of my statement as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite, Antonio Guterres said.

Mr Guterres had said it was important to recognise Hamass attacks, which killed 1,400 Israelis, did not happen in a vacuum and that Palestinians had been subject to 56 years of suffocating occupation.

Soon after, Israel slammed the statement as shocking and horrible and called for his resignation.

Mr Guterres had said it was important to recognise Hamass attacks, which killed 1,400 Israelis, did not happen in a vacuum and that Palestinians had been subject to 56 years of suffocating occupation.

Antonio Guterres said he was shocked with the misrepresentations of his statement (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

First RAF flight carrying 21 tonnes of aid for Gaza sets off from UK to Egypt

Wednesday 25 October 2023 15:27 , Alexander Butler

Australia deploys military aircraft to Middle East

Wednesday 25 October 2023 14:55 , Alexander Butler

Australia has deployed two C-130J military aircraft to the Middle East amid fears the Israel-Hamas conflict could engulf the region in a wider war.

All of this is a contingency and the purpose of it is to be supporting Australian populations that are in the Middle East if, in fact, this conflict gets worse, acting prime minister Richard Marles said.

Australia has helped hundreds of citizens leave Israel aboard chartered flights and was working toward helping 79 leave Gaza.

File photo of a C-130J plane (PA)

Sunak says there should be specific pauses in conflict

Wednesday 25 October 2023 14:10 , Alexander Butler

British prime minister Rishi Sunak has said there should be specific pauses during Israels war with Hamas to allow for the passage of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages.

From the start, we have said that we do want British nationals to be able to leave Gaza and that we want hostages for to be released and for humanitarian aid to get in and we recognise for all of that to happen there has to be a safer environment, which of course necessitates specific pauses, as distinct from a ceasefire, and we discussed this with partners yesterday evening at the United Nations.

And we have also been consistently clear that everything must be done to protect civilians in line with international law and continue getting more aid flowing into Gaza, he said.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said there should be specific pauses during Israels war with Hamas (PA Wire)
Dozens of U.S. colleges and universities are increasingly riven by tensions over the war between Israel and Hamas, offering a window into how a rising generation perceives the conflict in the Middle East and the U.S. governments foreign policy in the region.

In recent days, protests and demonstrations have broken out on several campuses, in some cases drawing national attention and putting intense scrutiny on young people that some observers consider unfair. In some situations, student activism around the war has overlapped with volatile debates about free speech.

George Washington University came under the spotlight Tuesday after students affiliated with the group Students for Justice in Palestine projected slogans critical of the Israeli government on the wall of a library, including Divestment From Zionist Genocide Now. The images circulated widely on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The conflict between the Israeli government and the Palestinian people has long been the subject of intense debate in the U.S., especially on college campuses, where political activism is common. But the new war has raised the temperature dramatically, giving rise to social environments on campus that mirror the countrys similarly polarized politics.

Students at more than 100 colleges and universities from coast to coast planned walkouts in support of the Palestinian people on Wednesday afternoon, according to various posts on Instagram and X.

Pro-Israel demonstrators react while singing a song during a protest at Columbia University on Oct. 12, 2023, in New York. (Yuki Iwamura / AP)

The tensions have flared at some elite institutions, including Ivy League universities on the East Coast. Columbia University on Tuesday postponed a major fundraising drive amid intense debates on campus, where hundreds of people massed for competing pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrations after the Hamas attack.

In an interview, the student leader of a pro-Palestinian group at Columbia said their personal information had been published online and they had been harassed over their activism, adding that the atmosphere on campus has not been conducive to open and robust geopolitical debate.

If you cannot speak freely or engage in intellectual curiosity on a university campus, then the university has failed its students, said the student, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Leaders at Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania have been sharply criticized by top donors for how they responded to the Oct. 7 assault and the fallout on their campuses. The terror attack in Israel killed 1,400 people. Israels counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 6,500 people, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

However, some campuses have managed to come together in grief. Brown University students and community members, for instance, assembled last week to light candles and recite both Jewish and Muslim prayers as a form of tribute to the people who have been killed in Israel and Gaza, according to student newspaper coverage.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, on Tuesday ordered two state universities to deactivate chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine because they purportedly violated state laws barring antisemitism, according to the governors office.

DeSantis office claimed that the groups distributed a toolkit containing language that it said would promote discriminatory and violent behavior towards Israelis or Jews and promote supporting terrorist organizations. The National Students for Justice in Palestine did not immediately respond to a message requesting comment on DeSantis actions.

Protesters at Harvard University show their support for Palestinians in Gaza at a rally in Cambridge, Mass., on Oct. 14, 2023. (Joseph Presiozo / AFP - Getty Images)

The media offices for the University of Florida and the University of South Florida, the two schools named by DeSantis office, did not immediately respond to emails requesting comment.

The war has also stoked renewed fears about antisemitism and Islamophobia in the U.S. In recent weeks, Jewish and Muslim people across the country have expressed concern about the potential for hate crimes or other violence against their communities.

Jacob Miller, 21, a mathematics major at Harvard University, said he and other Jewish students have seen hateful posts on social media that echo age-old antisemitic tropes, including a reference to Jewish control of the media  a conspiracy theory often deployed by white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

The initial shock and grief of the first week has subsided, and yet tensions are still high because this is a very personal conflict for many, said Miller, who is the president of the universitys chapter of the Jewish student organization Hillel. He said the rising campus tensions have fundamentally reshaped the way I and fellow students conceive of this campus.

The end of this conflict wont change what has happened over the last several weeks, he said.

The recent public opinion polling paints a complicated portrait of how young people feel about the war and the U.S. governments immediate response.

In a Quinnipiac poll published last Tuesday, registered voters between the ages of 18 and 34 said they disapproved of the U.S. sending weapons and military equipment to Israel in response to the Hamas attack by a margin of 51% to 39%, and just 21% of voters in that age group said they approved of President Joe Bidens handling of the nations policy toward Israel.

When asked whether their sympathies rested more with the Israelis or Palestinians, 41% of registered voters between 18 and 34 said the Israelis, 26% said the Palestinians, and 33% replied that they dont know or didnt answer the question.

Meanwhile, a Generation Lab poll released the same day found that a majority of American college students blamed Hamas for the Oct. 7 assault on Israel, while two-thirds described the attack as an act of terrorism by Hamas.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Reps. Katie Porter (D-Irvine), left, Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank) and Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) at a U.S. Senate candidate forum in Los Angeles on Oct. 8, 2023. (Dania Maxwell/Los Angeles Times)

Just a few days after terrorists attacked America on Sept. 11, 2001, as Congress rushed to give President George W. Bush wide-ranging power to invade Afghanistan, Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) faced a decision that would come to define her career.

As she weighed her vote, Lee thought of a lesson shed learned in an earlier job running a community mental health center: Don't make critical decisions when you're grieving and mourning, angry, confused.

Lee decided that the authorization as written could set the stage for forever wars, she told The Times in a recent interview. After intense deliberation, she decided to vote no  the only member of Congress to oppose the bill.

Read more: Who will replace the late Sen. Feinstein in 2024 election? Meet the potential candidates

Twenty-two years later, Lee, Burbank Rep. Adam B. Schiff, and Irvine Rep. Katie Porter are the top Democrats in the race for the U.S. Senate seat once held by Dianne Feinstein , for decades a key player on foreign and national security policy.

California voters now face a choice among candidates with vastly divergent approaches to  and experience with  foreign policy.

Lees immediate reaction to the attack on Israel by Hamas militants this month sounded much like her response to 9/11.

"Our country has a responsibility, I believe, to call for a cease-fire and to call for the whole world to come together to try to stop the escalation of what is taking place in the Middle East. And peace is possible if we can bring all parties together to talk, she said at a candidate forum the weekend of the attack.

Schiff sounded a different note:

The only sentiment I want to express right now when Israel is going through its own 9/11 is unequivocal support for the security and the right of Israel to defend itself, he said.

Read more: Hallucinatory anguish and moments of hope: How Israel waits for news of hostages

Lee and Schiffs decades of work on foreign policy issues contrast with the relative inexperience of Porter, a third-term lawmaker whose House career has focused more on domestic issues.

In her answer at the forum, Porter pivoted to a hawkish line about Iran that sounded a lot like what some leading Republicans said in the immediate aftermath of the attack.

I stand with Israel in this time and I condemn the loss of lives  both of Palestinians and Israelis who are being victims of this terror, she said, asserting that "the United States has allowed terrorism to flourish and has refused to take a strong enough stance against Iran"  which backs the militant groups Hamas and Hezbollah.

When asked what specific Iran policy Porter was referring to, a spokesperson pointed to President Trumps withdrawal from the treaty aimed at curtailing Iran's nuclear program.

Lee and Schiff have long differed on foreign policy.

Besides voting against the war in Afghanistan, Lee voted against authorizing the Iraq war and the Patriot Act, which expanded government surveillance powers. Schiff voted for all three. (He has since said he regretted his Iraq vote.) Lee opposed the Obama administrations 2011 missile strikes in Libya, while Schiff conditionally supported them.

Schiff voted to approve final passage of the last seven annual defense funding bills; Lee, who has long pushed to slash Pentagon spending, voted against every one. (Porter voted against the most recent two spending bills but voted for them the first two years she was in Congress.)

Read more: Adam Schiff outpaces Barbara Lee, Katie Porter in fundraising for California Senate race

Lee told The Times before the Hamas attack that Schiff was part of the status quo thinking in Washington on foreign policy, and argued that Porter doesn't have a foreign policy record to stand on because she just hasn't been in Congress long enough.

Schiff declined to directly contrast his record with his opponents' in an interview shortly before the Hamas attack. But he emphasized his years as the top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee and the opportunity thats given him to get to know world leaders.

I've been deeply engaged in both foreign policy issues, national security issues and intelligence issues, Schiff said. It's given me, I think, a wealth of experience to deal with and address some of the paramount national security challenges facing the country.

Schiffs years leading the House Intelligence Committee helped prepare him to prosecute Trump at his first impeachment trial  where diplomats and military officials testified that the then-president had tried to pressure Ukraine into launching an investigation into Joe Biden and his son Hunter in exchange for U.S. weapons the country wanted to defend itself against Russian aggression.

In terms of his impeachment efforts, he did a very good job, Lee said of Schiff.

Read more: A stone, a bullet, a burial. A Palestinian boy's death in the West Bank signals wider unrest

Lee got her introduction to Capitol Hill foreign policy debates in the 1980s as a senior staffer for longtime Oakland Rep. Ron Dellums, then chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. During that time, Dellums led the bipartisan charge to sanction apartheid-era South Africa.

In recent years, shes been able to gain allies in her quest to rein in presidents expansive war powers  partly because elements of both parties had moved her way. Lee helped draft the Democratic National Committees national platform in 2016 and pushed the partys official foreign policy stance in a much more dovish direction. Her once-lonely crusade to repeal the 2001 and 2002 authorizations of military force has gained strong bipartisan support.

Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Fremont) said Lees views on war and peace were a key reason for his decision to endorse her.

I view Barbara Lee as the strongest voice against endless war, not just in the race, but in the entire Congress, he told The Times

Schiff leads the Senate race in delegation endorsements  22 of Californias 40 House Democrats have backed him, compared with three for Lee and none for Porter.

A number of his colleagues cited his foreign policy experience and work leading the Intelligence Committee as a major reason theyre backing him.

That was a big part of why I chose to endorse Adam, Rep. Ami Bera (D-Elk Grove) said. There's only 100 senators. So foreign policy experience is incredibly important.

Read more: What do Hamas and Israel see as the endgame? What would 'victory' look like?

Whoever wins the seat will be replacing a senator who played a crucial role on foreign policy, privacy and civil liberties issues for decades  at times to her fellow Democrats consternation.

Feinstein was the top Democrat on the powerful Senate Intelligence Committee from 2009 through 2016, and often hewed in a more interventionist direction than many in her party.

She voted to authorize the war in Iraq and was a major supporter of the Patriot Act. One of U.S. intelligence agencies staunchest Democratic allies for much of her career, Feinstein sided with Republicans to expand the governments ability to covertly monitor Americans calls and emails without a warrant and supported giving immunity to telephone companies that had allowed the U.S. government to listen in on calls between suspected terrorists and people on American soil. When former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden leaked details of the governments vast data-gathering operation, Feinstein accused him of treason. She also was a fierce defender of drone strikes and blocked President Obama from moving control of the drone strike program from the CIA to the Defense Department.

But she also was key in defending Obamas deal to prevent Iran from attaining nuclear weapons and led the charge to investigate and declassify a report on the CIA's secret torture program. The document may not have seen daylight if not for her work.

Schiff is probably the closest of the three candidates to Feinstein in terms of worldview and experience.

The two worked closely together as the top Democrats on the House and Senate intelligence committees. In the lead-up to the 2016 election, they pushed hard for the Obama administration to publicly call out Russia for meddling in the election. After being rebuffed, they put out a joint statement in late September 2016 declaring theyd seen evidence Russia was trying to influence the U.S. election  weeks before Obama officials finally said the same.

Far too late, Schiff lamented.

In recent years, the foreign policy differences between Schiff and Lee have not been as far apart as earlier in their political careers.

While Lee has fought to severely limit the CIAs long-running drone strike program, Schiff hasnt gone as that far  but in 2015 introduced legislation to put the program under Defense Department control. Schiff has also backed Lees work to repeal the 2002 law authorizing military force in Iraq. That effort has strong bipartisan support, including from Biden, and passed the House back when it was in Democratic hands in 2021 but has yet to become law.

Schiff worked across the aisle to reform the Patriot Act and end its warrantless wiretapping program. He also said the lesson he drew from his vote to back the Iraq invasion based on incorrect intelligence provided by the Bush administration led him to push to reform American intelligence-gathering services reports so that dissenting views are aired and group think is avoided.

Seeing how an administration could mislead the country and use intelligence to do it was a very powerful motivator for me to work on reforms of the intelligence community, he told The Times.

Both Schiff and Lee criticized the Biden administrations handling of the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, but praised the president's decision to pull out U.S. troops.

All three leading Democratic Senate candidates generally have strongly backed U.S. military aid for Ukraine, but voted against supplying that nation with cluster munitions.

The candidates overlap on some issues regarding Israel as well.

Schiff pointed out at the forum that he has criticized Israeli settlers expansion into the West Bank as well as Israels recent move away from democracy  alluding to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus attempts to undermine the independence of the judiciary.

Lee has consistently voted to provide funding for Israels Iron Dome missile defense system. But she was also one of 16 House Democrats to vote against a nonbinding resolution that condemned the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, which looks to block investments in Israel, and co-sponsored legislation to bar U.S. aid from going toward Israels annexation of West Bank land or detention of Palestinian children.

The reemergence of Israel as a global flashpoint puts their differences back on display.

Schiff continues to offer a full-throated defense of Israel.

It is crucial that Congress works quickly to provide Israel with the security assistance, humanitarian aid and intelligence support it needs to defend itself and to safely recover the hostages taken, he said in a statement. Words matter and our allies around the world  as well as our adversaries  are watching us closely. Its important, now more than ever, for the U.S. to stand united with Israel.

Lee recently joined a letter from the Congressional Progressive Caucus to President Biden expressing deep concern about Israels actions in Gaza and calling for an end to the siege and a humanitarian corridor to deliver lifesaving supplies.

Israel has the right to defend itself from Hamas, but must do so within the framework of international law, she wrote in a statement , calling on the U.S. to protect innocent civilians & ensure delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Porter released a five-minute video a few days later touting her support for Israel, strongly criticizing Iran and making only brief mention of Palestinian civilians suffering.

We cannot give in to Irans efforts to weaken our long-standing special relationship with Israel, she said.

Porter, whose district includes a large Iranian American community, has long spoken out against the Iranian governments brutal oppression of women and other protesters.

Porters campaign declined to make her available for an interview, but pointed to her work to trim defense spending and her successful push for an amendment banning senior Pentagon officials from owning stock in defense contractors as examples of her foreign policy work.

At the forum, Porter was asked a question about her lack of foreign policy experience and responded that she was a quick study.

I have done the work and always do the work. I was a professor, so I take doing your homework pretty seriously, she said. Im committed to continuing to learn.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Israels military conducted a targeted raid overnight in northern Gaza and vowed on Thursday to continue ground raids in the coming days, as the United Nations General Assembly met to discuss a proposed resolution for a humanitarian ceasefire.

Video published by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Thursday showed tanks and armored vehicles, including a bulldozer, moving on a road near a fence in northern Gaza. The tanks fired artillery, and some destruction could be seen nearby.

Speaking to CNN, IDF spokesperson Peter Lerner said the raid was a clear and sweep operation intended to create better terms for ground operations if and when that comes in. He also said that the IDF actually engaged the enemy, killing terrorists who were planning to conduct attacks against us with anti-tank guided missiles.

Israels military will continue raids in Gaza over the coming days, IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari told a televised press conference later on Thursday. The ground incursions are intended to kill Hamas militants, lay the foundations for an all-out invasion and neutralize explosive devices and reconnaissance posts, he said.

The raid came as the humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza, hastened by daily airstrikes and an Israeli blockade on life-saving fuel. Health services have been crippled by power shortages and hundreds of thousands of civilians have been forced to flee their homes amid the bombing campaign.

Israeli strikes have killed more than 6,850 people in Gaza, including thousands of children, since October 7, according to figures released Thursday by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah, drawn from sources in the Hamas-controlled enclave.

Pressure is building on the international community to persuade Israel to allow desperately needed aid into Gaza; the United Nations and several countries in the region have called for an immediate ceasefire, while others advocate for a humanitarian pause in fighting. But the world has so far failed to unite around the crisis, nearly three weeks since the outbreak of violence, sparked by Hamas gruesome October 7 terror attacks that killed over 1,400 people in Israel and saw over 200 people kidnapped.

Riyad Mansour, head of the Palestinian Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations, posed a blunt question to UN diplomats on Thursday as he recounted stories of Palestinians killed in Gaza.

Almost all killed are civilians, Mansour said. Is this the war some of you are defending?

UN member states are now preparing to vote on a draft resolution  put forward by Jordan on behalf of Arab states  after repeated failures to find consensus by the organizations powerful UN Security Council.

The resolution calls for a cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, and the rejection of any attempts at forced transfer of the Palestinian civilian population. But while General Assembly resolutions have political weight, they are non-binding.

Jordans Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi told diplomats gathered at the Assembly Hall that collective punishment is not self-defense. He also garnered rare applause inside the chamber as he said, We care about all life, about all civilians: Muslim, Christian, Palestinians, Jews, Israelis  all life.

Gilad Erdan, the UNs Israeli ambassador, offered sharp criticism of the resolution being debated by the Assembly, describing requests for a ceasefire as an attempt to tie Israels hands, preventing us from eliminating a huge threat to our citizens.

The United States has also rejected proposals for a ceasefire, calling instead for humanitarian pauses to allow the desperately needed aid into Gaza. The US has also emphasized its full support for what it calls Israels imperative to defend itself.

The European Union on Thursday also called for humanitarian pauses in Gaza after a meeting in Brussels, but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire.

Hellfire on Hamas

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, the militant group which controls Gaza, and has repeatedly said that its current siege of the enclave will be followed by a ground operation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Wednesday that the decision on when such action would be taken would be decided by Israels War Cabinet.

We are raining down hellfire on Hamas, Netanyahu said in a televised address, while claiming Israel has already eliminated thousands of terrorists  and this is only the beginning.

The prime minister also acknowledged for the first time that he will have to give answers for the intelligence failures that allowed the worst terror attack in Israeli history, saying it will be examined fully after the war.

Israels internal security agency, the Shin Bet, told CNN it believes it has killed scores of senior figures in Hamas military structure since it began air strikes on Gaza more than two and a half weeks ago. It is not possible for CNN to verify Israels assessment and Hamas is not commenting on any claims around the number of combatants killed in Israeli attacks.

Israeli forces said they killed the deputy head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate Shadi Barud  one of the Hamas officials they allege is partially responsible for planning the October 7 attacks  in a joint statement Thursday from the IDF and Shin Bet, the Israeli Security Agency. The Israeli military later said intelligence reports suggest air strikes have killed a Hamas rocket commander, Hassan Al-Abdullah, who the army says commanded rocket units in the Khan Younis area of Gaza.

The IDF and ISA released footage they claim shows the strikes that killed Barud, showing at least two damaged buildings in Gaza appearing to collapse. Hamas has not commented on the claim.

Flattened neighborhoods

Israels retaliatory air assault on what Israel calls Hamas terror infrastructure has since devastated the densely-populated 140-square-mile enclave, which had been described by rights groups as an open-air prison long before the current war began.

New satellite images released by Maxar taken on October 21, show significant destruction to sites across northern Gaza, with entire neighborhoods flattened in eastern Beit Hanoun and similar devastation near the Al Shati Refugee Camp, Atatra and Izbat Beit Hanoun.

The IDF told civilians to leave the crowded northern portion of the Palestinian enclave, where the bombardment has been especially severe. But it has also continued to bomb areas in the south, with a CNN producer in Gaza saying there is no safe area.

At a press conference Thursday, Gaza health ministry spokesperson Ashraf Al-Qidra said 12 hospitals had been rendered non-operational since Israels air campaign began, and 101 medical personnel had been killed.

He accused Israeli forces of deliberately causing a complete collapse of the healthcare system by obstructing the entry of fuel and essential medical supplies into Gaza. Israel says it does not allow fuel because Hamas diverts fuel transfer into Gaza for military purposes.

On Wednesday, Al Jazeera said its bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Al-Dahdouh, lost his wife, son, daughter and grandson in what it said was an Israeli airstrike. The blast hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip where the family was taking shelter after being displaced, according to Al Jazeera. In total, 12 members of the Al-Dahdouh family were killed in the blast, including nine children, a statement from the family said Thursday.

Three children in the rubble of ruined buildings that were destroyed by airstrikes in Gaza on October 25, 2023. - Youssef Alzanoun/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images

The IDF told CNN it did carry out an airstrike in the area where Al-Dahdouhs relatives were killed, saying it had targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area.

Strikes on military ta rgets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties, it added.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 24 journalists have died since the start of this conflict as of Wednesday. Twenty of those killed are Palestinian, three are Israeli, and one is a Lebanese journalist, CPJ said.

Overcrowded hospitals on the brink of collapse say they are overwhelmed with the numbers of injured people arriving every day and doctors have repeatedly told CNN they dont have the supplies or the electricity to run critical functions to care properly for them, or other patients, who rely on oxygen supplies to survive.

Videos filmed by journalists working with CNN showed victims in body bags in the aftermath of airstrikes and severely injured people, including children, in overcrowded hospitals.

A total of 1.4 million people  of Gazas population of more than 2 million  have been displaced since October 7, with almost 629,000 people living in UN shelters, OCHA said. Half of Gazas population are children.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza said Wednesday it will have to halt aid operations within a day if fuel is not delivered, saying it would mark the end of a lifeline for civilians.

UNRWA director for Gaza Tom White told CNN that aid workers would have to decide what aspects of life-saving aid they could and could not provide to civilians.

Do we provide fuel for desalination plants for drinking water? Can we provide fuel to hospitals? Can we provide the essential fuel that is currently producing the bread that is feeding people in Gaza? he said.

At least 38 United Nations workers have also been killed, according to an update by the UN humanitarian office OCHA.

Mediation talks

Meanwhile in Moscow, representatives from Hamas held talks with a senior Russian foreign ministry official on Thursday, according to Russian state media TASS and a statement from Hamas. TASS said the discussions centered on the release of hostages held by Hamas and the evacuation of Russian citizens from Gaza.

The Hamas delegation praised the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the efforts of Russian diplomacy, according to the militant groups statement. Mousa Abu Marzouk, deputy chief of Hamass political bureau, and Basem Naim, another senior Gaza-based Hamas leader, were part of the delegation which met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Presidential Representative for the Middle East and Africa, Mikhail Bogdanov, it also said.

Israel responded furiously to reports of the meeting. Israel condemns the invitation of senior Hamas officials to Moscow, which is an act of support of terrorism and legitimizes the atrocities of Hamas terrorists, Israels foreign ministry said in a statement, calling for Russia to expel the Hamas delegation immediately.

A view of the rubble and ruins of buildings that were demolished in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza on October 25, 2023. - Youssef Alzanoun/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images

Qatar, which is helping to mediate with Egypt, US, Israel and Hamas, is hopeful for a breakthrough soon on negotiations to release hostages held by the militant group, the prime minister and foreign minister said Wednesday.

The hostage crisis is a truly international one.

Israels government press office said 135 hostages  more than half of those being held by Hamas  hold foreign passports from 25 different countries.

They include 54 Thai nationals, 15 Argentinians, and 12 citizens from Germany and the US.

Four hostages  two American and two Israeli  have been freed so far. Talks to secure the release of the rest of the hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza are ongoing, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said.

US President Joe Biden said Wednesday he told Netanyahu that if its possible to secure the release of hostages in Gaza ahead of an Israeli ground invasion, he should do so.

But Biden said flatly no when asked whether hed sought assurances from his Israeli counterpart that he would hold off on a ground invasion while the hostages remain in custody.

This story has been updated with additional details.

CNNs Amir Tal, Caroline Faraj, Kevin Flower, Hamdi Alkhshali, Richard Roth, Hande Atay Alam, Tamar Michaelis, Kevin Liptak, Jennifer Hansler, Adi Koplewitz, Katharine Krebs, Lauren Kent and Jorge Engels contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Israel said it would launch a ground invasion of Gaza after the October 7 terrorist attacks.

But three weeks on, no such invasion has happened.

Here are several reasons why the invasion has been delayed.

Shortly after the Hamas terrorist attacks on October 7, Israel announced that it would launch a ground invasion of Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the "complete siege" of Gaza, which is home to around two million people. He called up more than 350,000 Israeli reservists and ordered the immediate bombing of military and civilian targets in Gaza, killing more than 5,000 people, according to the United Nations.

But three weeks on, little has happened. Here are some of the reasons why Israel could be delaying its ground offensive.

Securing the release of Israeli captives

Yocheved Lifshitz (C) speaks to the media alongside her daughter Sharone Lifschitz (L) at Ichilov Hospital after she was released by Hamas on October 24, 2023, in Tel Aviv, Israel. Alexi Rosenfeld/Getty Images

Hamas militants took more than 200 people hostage during the October 7 terrorist attacks on southern Israel, which killed more than 1,400 Israelis and injured over 5,400.

While some hostages have been released, the majority are thought to be kept in a vast network of underground tunnels in Gaza, according to one 85-year-old Israeli captive who was freed this week.

Due to the number of hostages, President Joe Biden's administration advised Israel to delay its much-anticipated ground invasion to allow more time for negotiations and humanitarian aid deliveries into the region, The New York Times reported.

In a phone call on Sunday, Biden and Netanyahu both "discussed ongoing efforts to secure the release of all the remaining hostages taken by Hamas  including US citizens  and to provide for safe passage for US citizens and other civilians in Gaza who wish to depart," the White House said in a statement, as per The Times.

"If Washington thinks they have the ability to squeeze more hostages out in advance of a ground invasion by working with Egypt and Qatar, they will seek to do that," Jonathan Lord, a senior fellow and the director of the Middle East Security program at the Center for New American Security in Washington told NBC News.

While negotiations have been slow-moving, Israel is still trying to get back as many hostages as possible. On Wednesday, its military dropped thousands of leaflets into Gaza, asking Palestinians to reveal information on hostages' whereabouts, in exchange for money and protection, Sky News reported.

President Joe Biden is greeted by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after arriving at Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv on October 18, 2023. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

US military action

US officials, including Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, have also urged Israel to halt their offensive in an effort to advise it on its military actions and discuss American arms shipments, the Times reported.

"We have a close dialogue and consultations with the US administration. The US is not pressing Israel in regards to the ground operation," a diplomat from the Israeli Embassy in Washington told the Times.

US military officials are making their own preparations, scrambling to deploy nearly a dozen air defense systems in the region, The Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday.

The US military and other officials believe their forces will be targeted by militant groups once Israel launches its ground invasion, according to the report.

Preparations for a possible wider regional war

Meanwhile, allies of Israel are conscious of the ongoing tensions with Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militia group, that could attack Israeli forces from Lebanon and open a northern front.

"Nobody has an appetite for two fronts at this point," one US official told NBC News.

Other militias are also active in Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.

US officials believe that once the ground invasion begins, American forces will be targeted by various militant groups, the Wall Street Journal reported.

An Israeli soldier jumps off a Merkava tank during a military drill near the border with Lebanon in the upper Galilee region of northern Israel on October 24, 2023. Jalaa Marey/AFP via Getty Images

Political pressure

Netanyahu, who is already on unstable political ground after the terrorist attack, still needs to make some major decisions before a ground offensive, according to reports.

For example, a senior official told NBC News that the prime minister has not yet settled on an exit plan for how and when Israeli ground forces will leave Gaza.

This is partly because military meetings have so far focused only on day-to-day operations as Israel continues to bomb Gaza.

On top of this, Netanyahu and Israel Defense Forces (IDF) officials have come under intense scrutiny for the intelligence and policy failures that allowed Hamas to carry out its deadly attacks.

Therefore, Israeli leaders need to be extra diligent about their next steps, to make sure they not only please their allies but also their country.

"Almost everyone making decisions on this knows they bear some responsibility for the disaster of October 7, whether that's the political leadership or the military and security leadership," Robert Satloff, the Howard P Berkowitz chair in US Middle East policy at the Washington Institute for Near East Studies told NBC News.

"They all know that how Israel performs in this next phase is their last chance to write what may be their final chapter in public life," he added.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, Israel on October 12, 2023. Jacquelyn Martin/Getty Images

It is unclear when the ground offensive will really begin. Netanyahu has not given a timeframe, and said Thursday that he would not provide any details to "secure the lives of our soldiers."

The timing of the IDF operation will be "unanimously" determined by Israel's war cabinet, he added.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Israeli troops, backed by tanks and armoured bulldozers launched a targeted raid into northern Gaza, to prepare for the next stages of combat, the country's military has said.

The hours-long brigade-level raid, the biggest of a number of raids Israeli forces have made into Gaza recently, comes ahead of a widely anticipated full-ground offensive that prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed will go ahead.

Israel has also unleashed its heaviest-ever bombardment of Gaza, which is home to more than two million people, in retaliation for a bloody attack by Hamas, who stormed communities in southern Israel on 7 October, killing 1,400 people and taking more than 220 hostage. Ratcheting up its bombing campaign, Israels military said in the last 24 hours alone it had launched 250 airstrikes across Gaza, targeting tunnel shafts and rocket launchers.

The military also shared grainy footage of Israeli tanks crossing into the besieged enclave, where rear admiral Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, said the troops eliminated terrorists, neutralised threats, dismantled explosives [and] neutralised ambushes as part of our preparations for the next stages of combat.

Colonel Richard Hecht said infantry, tanks and armoured bulldozers were involved and the forces went 1.5km into Gaza from the border fence.

It was [a] targeted technical raid in and out  there was an anti-tank missile fired at one of our tanks. There will be more of these raids he added.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run strip has said that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war  a figure that includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital. That is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014, which amounted to 2,251, mostly civilians, according to UN figures. The ministrys current toll includes more than 2,900 children and more than 1,500 women. It said the latest strikes killed 750 people, the highest reported death toll in a 24-hour period so far. An airstrike on the southern town of Khan Younis hit a residential building where 75 people were staying, according to family members, including 25 who had fled other parts of Gaza.

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza (AP)

Hamass armed wing, the Qassam Brigades said on their Telegram on Thursday that nearly 50 hostages held captive in Gaza had been killed in airstrikes. The Israeli military declined to comment on this report which could not be independently verified.

Israel has called for Palestinians to evacuate from northern to southern Gaza, but UN officials have said that nowhere is safe in the Strip. When people north as well as south are caught up in hostilities, when the essentials for survival are lacking, and when there are no assurances for return, people are left with nothing but impossible choices, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lynn Hastings, said. Nowhere is safe in Gaza.

Elsewhere, the foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Morocco condemned the targeting of civilians and violations of international law in Gaza in a joint statement. It mentioned that the right to self-defence does not justify breaking the law and neglecting Palestinians rights. The Arab foreign ministers also condemned forced displacement and collective punishment in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told Pope Francis that the international communitys silence over what was happening in Gaza was a shame for humanity. In a statement, he was quoted as telling the Pope during a telephone conversation that everyone should support efforts to deliver uninterrupted aid to innocent civilians in Gaza.

It comes as EU leaders are set to call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and pauses to get urgently needed aid into Gaza, according to the final draft of a text to be approved at a summit in Brussels on Thursday. World leaders  including Rishi Sunak  have called for pauses in the fighting to allow delivery of aid and evacuation of foreign citizens including British citizens.

Women mourn during a funeral for Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes in southern Gaza (Reuters)

Mr Erdogan also slammed the European Union in a televised speech, for failing to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. How many more children must die before the EU Commission calls for a ceasefire, he said. How many more tons of bombs must fall on Gaza before the United Nations Security Council can take action? Mr Erdogan also accused the West of failing to see the violence unfolding in Gaza because the blood being shed is Muslim blood.

The United Nations has made repeated pleas for a humanitarian ceasefire, warning that a crippling Israel-imposed siege alongside the airstrikes means it will have to stop delivery of aid and halt support to hospitals, bakeries and water treatment plants. The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.

Israel has refused to let in fuel with aid shipments, saying it could be seized by Hamas.

The health ministry in Gaza announced the closure of more hospitals and said on Wednesday the healthcare system has collapsed. The UN and rights groups have warned hundreds are at risk  including premature babies and patients dependent on dialysis  if generator fuels run out amid the siege, which UN experts say amounts to collective punishment and is a violation of international law. Hospitals are operating beyond capacity without power, ambulances are running out of fuel and first responders cannot pull the injured or dead out from under the rubble.

A trickle of supplies have been permitted to cross from Egypt into Gaza, but Israel has barred the transfer of fuel, claiming it could be used by Hamas militant power rockets. The Palestinian arm of the Red Crescent says 12 lorries have crossed into Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah border crossing on Thursday.

Israeli soldiers chat near the border with Gaza (Reuters)

Mr Netanyahu, in a televised speech on Wednesday night, did not address calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and doubled down on the ground invasion.

The timing of the invasion will be determined unanimously by the War Cabinet, Mr Netanyahu said adding that the government was working on it around the clock.

We are raining down hellfire on Hamas ... and this is only the beginning. At the same time, we are preparing for a ground incursion. I will not detail when, how or how many, or the overall considerations that we are taking into account, most of which are unknown to the public, and this is how it needs to be, in order to better safeguard the lives of our soldiers, he added.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war cabinet, said on Thursday that any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

Later, when asked about a ground invasion, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said: The day it will come is not far off ... the manoeuvre will start when conditions are right.

The Israeli military said that the families of 224 hostages had now been informed. Israel says among them are 138 foreign citizens, including two Britons and 12 Americans. The UK government has said it believes five people are missing in the wake of the Hamas attack.

There had been reports the ground incursion was put on hold to allow more time to negotiate the release of hostages, and because of concerns it could trigger a wider regional war. Mr Gallant said that Israel has no interest in expanding the war beyond Gaza. He would not comment on the possibility of a hostage release mediated by Qatar, who have been speaking to Hamas, but said "any channel is a possibility as long as the goal is met"
JERUSALEM  Even as the humanitarian situation for Gazas 2.1 million civilians continues to deteriorate, with the U.N. and other international aid agencies warning that fuel for hospitals and essential institutions is set to run out completely in the coming days, Israel is remaining steadfast in its refusal to allow power generating materials to enter the Palestinian enclave.

As Israel ramps up its aerial bombardments in an effort to wipe out the Hamas terrorist group following its Oct. 7 surprise attack on southern Israel, withholding fuel is part of a broader strategy of literally "smoking out" the terrorists who have been sequestered in the subterranean tunnel system that snake beneath the streets of the Gaza Strip.

Ehud Yaari, an Israel-based Lafer international fellow of The Washington Institute, told Fox News Digital that for years, Hamas had been stealing fuel designated for civilian purposes in order to build up its stocks.

"Underneath Gaza City, there is a deep system of tunnels that stretches for some 190 miles, and it is totally dependent on fuel for ventilation, communication, and electricity," he said.

ISRAELS HUNT FOR HAMAS TERROR GROUP LEADER YAHYA SINWAR: 'DEAD MAN WALKING'

Aid convoy trucks loaded with supplies are seen at Cairo-Ismailia Desert Road on Oct. 14 2023 in Cairo.

Yaari also said that the roughly 220 hostages being held by Hamas inside Gaza since the Oct. 7 attack were likely hidden somewhere inside this vast tunnel system.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"One of the ways to flush them [Hamas] out or force them above ground is to prevent them from having fuel," he said, adding "It is no vacation being in those underground tunnels for three weeks. Its hot and humid and the more Israel destroys of Hamas infrastructure from the air, the fewer casualties there will be for Israel on the ground."

"This is a key strategy and that is why the Israelis have been insisting that fuel is not to be included in the aid trucks going into Gaza from Egypt," Yaari added.

On Wednesday, COGAT, the Israeli military body that oversees all goods transported into Gaza from Israel, shared a photograph on X of what it said was Hamas' fuel tanks.

"Hamas owns fuel tanks, containing hundreds of thousands of liters of fuel," the post read.

The message followed an earlier one by Israel Defense Forces Arabic spokesman Lt. Col. Avichay Adraee, who also pointed out that Hamas had stockpiles of fuel, but rather than giving it over to its citizens for use in hospitals and bakeries, it was "using it instead to operate its tunnels, rocket launchers and so its leaders can live more comfortably."

"This is how Hamas's priorities appear," Adraee wrote, sharing an aerial photograph of what appeared to be massive circular containers.

'PAY FOR SLAY': PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY MAY HAVE TO COMPENSATE FAMILIES OF HAMAS TERRORISTS, REPORT SAYS

Tents set up for Palestinians seeking refuge along the Gaza Strip on Oct. 20, 2023.

Israeli government officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus spokesman Mark Regev, have expressed in media interviews and briefings that their main fear in allowing fuel into Gaza is that Hamas, which ultimately rules the Palestinian enclave, will immediately confiscate it for military purposes.

Initially reluctant to even allow the aid trucks into Gaza since it started its military campaign, Israel finally agreed, under pressure from the White House, a week ago that deliveries of food, water and medicine for civilians only could enter to the southern part of the Strip.

Israel has been warning residents living in Gaza City and northwards to move farther South as it carries out aerial bombardments aimed at destroying Hamas terror infrastructure and killing key militant leaders.

On Wednesday, Israeli Defense Forces spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said the army had destroyed Hamas emergency operational apparatus responsible for setting up blockades preventing those civilians from evacuating to safer areas. Hagari said the army would continue to encourage Gazans to move southward, away from Israels military airstrikes, to where the aid sent by Egypt and the U.S. was being distributed.

ISRAELI FORCES CONDUCT TANK RAID IN GAZA AHEAD OF EXPECTED INVASION

Israeli Defense Forces said that a tunnel the Hamas terrorist cell exited from before swimming toward Israeli territory was struck.

Michael Milshtein, head of the Palestinian Studies Forum at the Dayan Center in Tel Aviv University, told Fox News Digital that he believed, however, there was enough fuel in Gaza to power the hospitals and other essential civilian institutions.

"There are reserves of fuel in Gaza, Hamas just doesnt want to give it to the population," he said. "If they give it to the people then they will not have it for their tunnels or for the vehicles they use to transport their rockets or to power the drones that they send in to attack Israel."

Miltshtein added that,"In order for Hamas to stay underground it needs that fuel, without that fuel they cant stay underground for much longer."

However, aid agencies, including UNRWA, have warned that what is entering Gaza is not enough to sustain the estimated 1.4 million people now internally displaced since the war began and that if fuel is not delivered within the next few days, they will no longer be able to carry out their operations.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday, "Without fuel, aid cannot be delivered, hospitals will not have power, and drinking water cannot be purified or even pumped."

Doctors in Gaza have also warned of a spike in infectious diseases, with many of the displaced gathering in already overcrowded shelters and a lack of clean water leading to an increase in cases of diarrhea, food poisoning, scabies, bronchial infections and chicken pox.

Palestinian Hamas terrorists are seen during a military show in the Bani Suheila district on July 20, 2017 in Gaza City, Gaza.

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The Hamas-run Ministry of Health claimed in its reporting that the death toll in Gaza was more than 6,000 people, with 1,600 missing including 900 children.

During a press conference on Wednesday President Biden questioned the reporting by the Hamas controlled Gaza Health Ministry in regard to the number of casualties, telling reporters, "I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using."





Original article source: Israel says Hamas terrorists keeping fuel for themselves ignoring humanitarian needs of Gazans
The Israeli military displays weapons recovered from Hamas militants after the bloody attacks of October 7, including some it says were manufactured in Iran or North Korea (Aris MESSINIS)

The Israeli military said Thursday that a portion of the weapons used by Hamas in its October 7 attacks were manufactured in Iran or North Korea.

The military made the statement during an official media tour in which it displayed a variety of weapons recovered from communities in southern Israel attacked by the militants.

A range of landmines, rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs), and homemade drones were part of the haul displayed.

Part of the arsenal included Iranian-made mortar rounds and North Korean RPGs.

"I think about five to 10 percent of the weapons here [were] made in Iran," said an Israeli military official, who helped oversee the clearance of munitions from areas that came under attack.

"And 10 percent [are] North Korean. The rest of it was made inside the Gaza Strip," the official added, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Hamas is believed to rely on extensive smuggling networks to bring weapons into the besieged Gaza Strip.

The group also produces its own munitions, including the rockets it has repeatedly fired at Israeli cities.

"I think the most surprising thing was the amount of weapons that they brought inside Israel," the official said.

In southern Israel, troops have taken over many of the communities attacked on October 7 including Holit, where on Thursday AFP saw a soldier manning a gun pointed towards Gaza.

Scorched homes and bullet holes were visible in the small kibbutz, not far from the Egyptian border, where at least 10 people were killed by militants, according to a volunteer with Zaka, a charity which collects bodies in accordance with Jewish practice.

Hamas's shock October 7 attacks, the worst in Israeli history, saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour into Israel from Gaza, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 224 more, according to official tallies.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near the border move into the Palestinian territory.

ds-rsc/jd/kir
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli efforts to rehabilitate southern communities ravaged by the Oct. 7 Hamas onslaught will take years and go beyond a planned ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, a member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu 's war cabinet said on Thursday.

Benny Gantz , an ex-general who joined Netanyahu from the opposition in an emergency government, signalled to enemies of Israel other than Hamas that they too risked being destroyed.

"The battle against Gazan terror will continue within the strip's territory - going deep, anywhere and at any time required to ensure security for the communities that will be restored and will rebuild the region," he said in a speech.

"The (ground) maneuver will be but one stage of a long process that will include defensive, diplomatic and social aspects that will take years."

A long-time political rival of Netanyahu, Gantz said the two-week-old war cabinet was functioning well and making decisions based on calculations relevant to the national crisis.

Israel has vowed to annihilate Hamas, which is sworn to its destruction and has the support of Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

"The danger of destruction will not be our destiny, but rather, the fate of those who would do evil to us," Gantz said.

(Writing by Dan Williams; Editing by Angus MacSwan)
Israel sent tanks and infantry into northern Gaza early Thursday, the Israeli military said, with the ground forces striking several Hamas targets before withdrawing. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shared video footage of the incursion online, showing multiple armored vehicles firing and bulldozers leveling raised banks to allow the tanks to pass through. Israels national Army Radio said the operation was the biggest incursion into Gaza so far conducted by Israel in its war against Hamas. In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza, the IDF said. IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts. The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his forces are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how, or how many, he said.

In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.



IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.



The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Read it at Reuters

Read more at The Daily Beast.
TEL AVIV  Hamas militants tearing through a border fence and celebrating after reaching Israeli soil. Festivalgoers running, screaming and hiding as a hail of bullets and rockets descends upon them. Civilians, including young children, shot to death and burned beyond recognition. These are just some of the scenes the Israel Defense Forces asked journalists to watch Wednesday.

The IDF played a gruesome, 46-minute montage of extended video that it says captures parts of Hamas' deadly attack on Oct. 7. The video includes body camera video it says was taken from Hamas terrorists, closed-circuit TV video, video from rescuers and imagery posted to social media by both militants and victims. The IDF said it did not release the video to the public out of respect for the families involved and because of privacy concerns.

NBC News could not immediately independently verify all the video, some of which it was provided.

'Why am I alive?'

In the video, militants can be seen driving and standing on roadways in southern Israel and shooting at approaching vehicles. In some cases, civilians are pulled out of their cars and shot, sometimes multiple times, even after they appear to be already dead. Militants appear to work their way through houses, shooting people trying to hide  under tables and racing through rooms.

At the musical festival near Re'im, revelers are seen hiding, fear and shock on their faces. A person stares horrified into the camera of what appears to be a mobile phone as bloodied bodies lie around them. Image after image shows men, women and children, including an infant, dead, bloodied and burned.

In one harrowing moment, CCTV video shows a father and two boys running out of their home and into what appears to be a small shelter. Video from security cameras inside and outside the house shows militants coming around to the shelter and a grenade being thrown in. The father then collapses before the boys, covered in blood and wailing for "Daddy," are forced back into the home.

Follow live updates

One boy cries out in the video, which included English subtitles, Its really not a prank! before noticing his brother's bloodied eye. Can you see with this eye? he asks frantically. "No. ... I can only see with one eye," his brother responds.

The older boy wails, pounds the floor and shouts, Why am I alive? as his brother appears to sit stunned.

Asked what happened to the two boys, IDF Maj. Gen. Mickey Edelstein, commander of the operational planning team, said he could not share those details out of respect for the family, but he suggested journalists shouldn't assume a "severe scenario."

We failed to protect our civilians

The IDF's decision to show the imagery comes amid mounting scrutiny of Israel's response to Hamas' Oct. 7 attack and the group's continued holding of hostages taken captive during the ambush. Israel has faced questions and condemnation over its weekslong bombardment of Gaza, in which more than 6,500 people have been killed, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. It has also been criticized for choking access to vital resources for civilians and ordering residents of northern Gaza to abandon their homes and go south as the Israeli military prepares to launch an expected ground invasion.

People light candles for people who were kidnapped and in memory for people killed (Amir Levy / Getty Images file)

Asked by NBC News why the IDF wanted journalists to watch the disturbing scenes now, Edelstein said he wanted the world to understand the evil Hamas brought upon communities in southern Israel  and why Israel would do whatever is needed to bring back the sense of security.

Edelstein acknowledged, however, that Israelis' trust in their security has been shaken in part by what he said were the IDFs own failures.

"I think we failed to protect our civilians," he said when NBC News asked him to address why it sometimes took IDF soldiers many hours to reach areas that were targeted in the attack  and whether it was possible any civilians might have been caught in the crossfire during the response. It's possible, he said, that "mistakes" were made.

Hamas' ambush, Edelstein said, was a "very, very complicated attack." He said soldiers had raced from their homes to respond to the assault, some before being asked. All of us ran to our uniforms. If you had a rifle or a pistol, you took it and you ran and we start fighting, he said.

Should we have any mistakes? Probably we did, he said. But this is not the issue. It took us time to ... to stop this violent act.

Edelstein admitted that it took the IDF "over one day, I mean, after 36 hours or so, to reach some areas infiltrated by Hamas. He said the reasons for failures in the military's response were under investigation.

'Not looking for revenge'

Now, as Israel looks to launch a possible ground invasion and the death toll in Gaza continues to mount, Edelstein said, "we're not looking for revenge."

He made the comment when NBC News asked him what he would say to those who allege that Israels bombardment of Gaza is more about vengeance than a coherent plan. Noting that both his children are soldiers, one on active duty and the other on reserve duty, he said his family members exchange no words about revenge.

"We have to bring back the sense of security and the security for our people," he said. "We cannot trust anymore the Hamas leadership, because they were the ones who ... executed everything." Edelstein said Israel also knows specifically "who is involved" in the attack, saying, "We captured dozens of terrorists, and they gave the names, too."

An Israeli soldier patrols near the Supernova music festival attack (Aris Messinis / AFP via Getty Images)

He said Israel would continue to seek to free the more than 200 people taken hostage and to eliminate Hamas, which he said he believed could pose a threat to "other places," too.

"I think that you'll agree with me," he said: "If you are standing for humanity, you must stand with us."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
A volunteer with the ZAKA relief organization cleans a bedroom inside a home that was heavily damaged during the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas gunmen, near the border with Gaza in Kibbutz Holit, Israel on Oct. 26, 2023. (Tamir Kalifa/The New York Times)

JERUSALEM  Israels 19-day bombing campaign in the Gaza Strip has become one of the most intense of the 21st century, prompting growing global scrutiny of its scale, purpose and cost to human life.

Since terrorists from Gaza raided Israel on Oct. 7, killing roughly 1,400 people according to the Israeli government, the Israeli military says it has struck more than 7,000 targets inside Gaza. That is a higher number than in any previous Israeli military campaign in the territory, a narrow enclave less than half the size of New York City. It also outstrips the most intense month of the U.S.-led bombing campaign against the Islamic State group, according to Airwars, a British conflict monitor.

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For Palestinians, the scale of the bombing campaign has appeared vengeful and unfocused, killing residents from across a wide spectrum of civilian life and destroying residential areas. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry says Israeli strikes have killed more than 6,500 people, a number that if verified would make this the deadliest conflict for Palestinians since at least the Lebanon war of 1982.

But to Israelis, there is a necessity and a method to their strikes, which they say are not about retaliation but defense. The campaign, Israeli officials say, is focused on degrading military infrastructure that is often built near homes and civilian institutions. Officials and analysts warn that a potential ground invasion of Gaza could be even bloodier than the air war. They argue that strikes that ease an Israeli ground advance will help reduce the loss of life for Palestinian civilians and Israeli soldiers alike, once the invasion begins.

Since Oct. 7, Israel has said it has targeted scores of Palestinian rocket launchers, command centers and munitions factories. It has also used powerful bombs to penetrate the surface in order to collapse a network of tunnels, hundreds of miles long, that armed groups such as Hamas have dug deep beneath the territorys most crowded urban centers.

Even as Israel has used precision weapons, it has maintained a broad definition of what constitutes a military target. Fighter jets wrecked the Islamic University in Gaza because Israel said the campus had been used to train intelligence operatives. They have targeted mosques that Israel says served as weapons depots and operation centers. And they have targeted Hamas commanders in their homes.

The strikes appear to have successfully curbed the groups rocket-firing abilities. The Israeli military has not released exact numbers, but there were fewer than 20 air raid sirens across Israel on Wednesday, compared with hundreds during the first days of the war.

Despite that, Israel has continued to pound the enclave. On Tuesday, the Gaza Health Ministry said that 704 people had been killed in the previous 24 hours. If verified, it would be Gazas single deadliest day of the war.

For many in Gaza, the high death toll is an indication that Israel is seeking to collectively punish the people of Gaza and not just Hamas, the group that controls the strip and is designated a terrorist organization by the United States and European Union.

To Dr. Yousef Al-Akkad, director of the European Gaza Hospital, a medical center in southern Gaza, the strikes constitute an attempt to satisfy the instinct of revenge and vengeance within Israeli society by bringing the number of martyrs to unprecedented levels.

But the Israeli military says that even after striking scores of rocket launchers, there are still many military targets left  including Hamas leaders and underground bunkers. On Wednesday, it said its forces had assassinated a senior Hamas commander in southern Gaza, and eliminated a Hamas squad that emerged from a tunnel in the north of the enclave.

The air war, Maj. Nir Dinar, an Israeli military spokesperson, explained is part of the campaign to prepare the ground for an invasion. He added: Destroy the tunnels and kill as many terrorists from the air as possible.

The strikes have ruined residential neighborhoods that had been only lightly damaged during previous air campaigns. The bombs have killed journalists, medical workers, teachers, United Nations staff members as well as 2,700 children, according to the Hamas-led authorities.

Al-Jazeera said Wednesday that three family members of its bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Al-Dahdouh, were killed by an Israeli airstrike. He lost his wife, his 15-year-old son and his 6-year-old daughter, the outlet said.

The strikes have continued amid growing concern in Israel that its troops, despite their technical superiority over Hamas armed wing, will become locked in a bloody urban war after they invade.

Tens of thousands of Hamas gunmen are thought to be lying in wait, most of them in the groups sprawling tunnel networks. Analysts expect that Hamas will try to slow Israels advance by exploding some tunnels once soldiers are in their vicinity; setting roadside bombs; booby-trapping buildings and emerging suddenly from hidden tunnel entrances and ambushing Israelis from behind.

The military publicly says it is ready to invade, but there are a growing number of experts and former leaders who argue that Israel does not need to rush the invasion. Instead, they reckon Israel should extend its air campaign in order to make it as easy as possible for Israeli ground forces to operate once the ground war begins.

Israel is not in a hurry, said Amos Yadlin, a former head of Israeli military intelligence and a retired Israeli air force general. The U.S. destroyed ISIS over five years so Israel doesnt have to destroy Hamas in six days.

As well as attempting to collapse the tunnel network, the Israeli air force may also be trying to destroy aboveground structures, from which Hamas snipers could ambush advancing Israeli columns, said Relik Shafir, a retired Israeli air force general.

Lets say youre a foot soldier and you want to get to a strategic point, Shafir said. You dont want to be flanked by units shooting at you at close range, either with small-arms fire or short range missiles. And so you need a kind of corridor so that you can see where youre going.

To achieve that, the air force needs to demolish the buildings on the way, flatten them in such a manner that they cant be used for guerrilla warfare, Shafir said.

To lessen the likelihood of civilian casualties, Israel has warned an estimated 1.1 million residents of northern Gaza to head south, away from the focus of both its air campaign and its expected ground invasion.

In a control room in southern Israel, a group of Arabic-speaking Israeli soldiers regularly telephone community leaders in northern Gaza to push them to encourage their neighbors to flee. The soldiers also harvest phone data to monitor how many people are leaving particular neighborhoods  and they say that this data informs the militarys decision about where and when to strike.

But military officials also said that they have scaled back their use of so-called warning strikes  smaller munitions that shake a building without causing catastrophic damage, giving its occupants advance warning of a larger strike in the near future.

The outcome is an aerial bombardment that exceeds even the most intense month of strikes by a U.S.-led military coalition on ISIS-held Mosul in Iraq, according to Airwars. In March 2017, the coalition fighting the Islamic Stage group fired roughly 5,000 munitions, at least 2,000 fewer than Israel has fired in less than three weeks.

Emily Tripp, the director of Airwars, said: It is on a scale that definitely outpaces the intensity of any conflict that weve monitored since 2014, the year that the group was founded.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
Israeli shelling in Gaza has killed several family members of a reporter for the news outlet Al Jazeera, highlighting the increasing violence against Palestinian civilians and the heightened risk journalists face in trying to cover the crisis.

Wael Dahdouh, one of the chief correspondents for Al Jazeera Arabic and the Gaza bureau chief, lost his wife, 15-year-old son Mahmoud and 7-year-old daughter Sham on Wednesday in an Israeli airstrike that devastated the Nusseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip. Al Jazeera, a Qatar-based network, later confirmed that Dahdouhs infant grandson was also killed in the attack. Other members of his family were believed to still be buried in the wreckage, according to Al Jazeera.

He was broadcasting live reporting about the very Israeli airstrike believed to have hit the building where his wife, son and daughter were seeking shelter, the National Press Club said on Wednesday. He learned while on the air that all three had died.

Majdi Fathi, a freelance photographer in Gaza, posted a video on Instagram of Dahdouh crying over his sons bloody and partially wrapped body. Fathi also posted a separate video of Dahdouh carrying his daughters small, bloody body. Video uploaded by Gaza photojournalist Motaz Azaiza shows Dahdouh holding his grandsons corpse while two women and a man Azaiza says are relatives cry and kiss the boy.

Al Jazeera reporter Wael Dahdouh carries the body of his grandson Wednesday from an ambulance in Gaza City. Dahdouh's wife and children were also killed in an Israeli airstrike, Al Jazeera television, based in Qatar, said.

Al Jazeera reporter Wael Dahdouh carries the body of his grandson Wednesday from an ambulance in Gaza City. Dahdouh's wife and children were also killed in an Israeli airstrike, Al Jazeera television, based in Qatar, said.

According to Israeli officials, more than 1,400 Israelis have been killed since Hamas launched its attack on the country Oct. 7.

Israels military on Wednesday raised the number of hostages believed taken captive by Hamas to 222. Four hostages have been released.

According to the Gaza Health Ministry, nearly 7,000 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 17,500 others wounded since Israel retaliated for the Oct. 7 attack. In the occupied West Bank, which does not house Hamas, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and more than 1,600 wounded.

Tamer Almisshal, an Al Jazeera Arabic journalist and a close friend of Dahdouhs, claimed that the correspondent and his family were a target for Israel.

He has been targeted. A family of a journalist has been targeted. And hes not the only one during this war, Almisshal said, according to Al Jazeera. Were talking about more than 20 journalists [who] have been killed with their families.

His daughter [and] grandson were civilians.  from my experience and knowledge of this great friend and colleague, Wael will continue his coverage, he said. Al Jazeera coverage wont stop. This is our responsibility.

Al Jazeera correspondent Wael Dahdouh mourns Wednesday over the body of his daughter, who was killed along with his wife in an Israeli strike in the Nuseirat camp, at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir Al-Balah in southern Gaza.

Al Jazeera correspondent Wael Dahdouh mourns Wednesday over the body of his daughter, who was killed along with his wife in an Israeli strike in the Nuseirat camp, at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir Al-Balah in southern Gaza.

A week earlier, Israeli Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi proposed new emergency regulations that would give him the ability to halt media broadcasts and take away related equipment if an outlets content is considered enemy propaganda. The proposal appeared to be a direct threat to Al Jazeera  one of the few international media outlets that had a physical presence in both Gaza and Israel  which Karhi accused of harming national security.

We are deeply concerned by Israeli officials threats to censor media coverage of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict, using vague accusations of harming national morale, said Sherif Mansour, the Middle East and North Africa program coordinator for the Committee to Protect Journalists.

CPJ urges Israel not to ban Al-Jazeera and to allow journalists to do their jobs. A plurality of media voices is essential to hold power to account, especially in times of war.

In 2017, Israel threatened to close Al Jazeeras bureau in Jerusalem and to expel the broadcaster. In 2021, Israel bombed a media tower in Gaza that was home to Al Jazeeras office. In 2022, an Israeli soldier shot and killed Palestinian American correspondent Shireen Abu Akleh, a veteran Al Jazeera correspondent who was covering an Israeli army operation in the occupied West Bank town of Jenin.

On Oct. 13, an airstrike on southern Lebanon wounded six journalists, including Al Jazeeras Eli Brakhya and Carmen Joukhadar. Reuters videographer Issam Abdallah was killed in the strike.

According to CPJ, at least 24 journalists have been killed in the violence this month  20 Palestinians, three Israelis and one Lebanese. Nearly a dozen journalists have been reported injured, missing or detained.

Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza, and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security, Al Jazeera said in a statement.

Related...
As an Iranian American political scientist and author of books on Iran, Islam and the Middle East, I am horrified by the cold-blooded slaughter and kidnapping of hundreds of Israeli citizens by the Iran-backed Palestinian groups, Hamas and Islamic Jihad.

No enlightened Muslim should conflate the legitimate grievance of Palestinians vis-a-vis the state of Israel with the utterly abhorrent and, fully unlawful from the prism of international humanitarian laws, massacre of Israeli civilians, deserving the strongest unequivocal condemnation. What Hamas did with its massacre of innocent civilians was to rob the Palestinian movement of its moral rightness. Those who praise these acts of terror have no conscience. Iran must use its influence to gain the freedom of Israeli hostages. I also fully support the United Nations secretary-generals call for an immediate end of Gazas siege.

Contrary to the misguided celebration of some people in Iran and elsewhere in the Muslim world, the moral standard of any decent Muslim can only guide us to nothing but strong denunciation of the abominable atrocities visited on innocent Israelis in the hands of Palestinian militants openly supported by Iran's hard-liners. The latter have now exposed Iran to potential retaliatory strike by Israel, which has done absolutely nothing to Iran, except helping Iran fight its Iraqi invaders during the eight-year Iran-Iraq war, without which Saddam Hussein might have prevailed and wrested away a large chunk of Iranian territory.

Indeed, the last time I looked at the Middle East map, Iran and Israel are distant from each other and there is no direct Iranian national security interest at stake in the long-standing Israel-Palestinian conflict, except the zealous religious ideology, resulting in Iran's hard-liners' overcommitment to an issue not germane to Iran's national interests at all.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who nowadays boasts about Iran's full support for Hamas, needs to explain to the Iranian nation what is the connection between the Palestinian issue and Iran's national interests? And has he a short memory and forgotten that when the Iran-Iraq war ended, there were upwards of 15,000 Palestinian prisoners of war in Iran's camps, as many Palestinians volunteered in Hussein's army invading Iran.

To open a caveat, this author once taught at Tufts University and had a conversation with a great Palestinian writer, the late Edward Said, who never criticized Hussein and even questioned, in his piece in Sunday London Times, the accuracy of reports that Hussein had killed hundred of Kurds by using chemical weapons, asking him why he never condemned Hussein's invasion of Iran, since the UN had found him guilty of starting the war in 1980? Said's answer shocked me. "I am an Arab nationalist, what do you think?" Until that moment I had thought that Said was beyond such petty nationalisms and was a cosmopolitan intellectual, apparently not.

So, the question remains: Why should Iran overcommit itself to a cause directly unrelated to Iran's national interests, to the point of Tehran's leaders jeopardizing the nation's peace and security by providing full support for a brutal terroristic assault on Israeli civilians, irrespective of how badly the current Israeli government has been mistreating the Palestinians?

The Iranian government has not been installed in power to represent the Palestinians or any other nation, only the Iranian nation, which has a proud historical legacy related to Cyrus the Great's liberation of Jews and allowing them to return to their homeland and rebuild their temple.

That enduring legacy of Iran's proud history ought to militate, theoretically speaking, against any religious-inspired tendency to succumb to the logic of exterminism vis-a-vis Israel put on full display by the Hamas militants terrorizing the civilians in southern Israel. So, should in the next days or weeks, Israeli bombs begin to fall on Iran's nuclear facilities in retaliation, Iran's ruling clergy have only themselves to blame.

Kaveh Afrasiabi has taught political science at Tehran University, Boston University and Bentley College. Afrasiabi has been a visiting scholar at Harvard University, UC Berkeley, Binghamton University, Center For Strategic Research, Tehran and Institute For Strategic Studies in Paris. He is the author of several books  on Iran, Islam, ecology, Middle East, UN reform, as well as poetry and fiction  and numerous articles in international newspapers and journals.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why would Iran support a terroristic assault on Israeli civilians?
This aerial photo taken on Feb. 28, 2023 shows the view of Thar Coal Block-I Coal Electricity Integration project in Sindh province, Pakistan. [Photo/Xinhua]

Pakistani Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar recently concluded his five-day visit to China, paving the way for another breakthrough consensus in the China-Pakistan "all-weather" strategic cooperative partnership. Several takeaways from the trip merit closer attention.



First, both sides are set to expand the scale and pace of Belt and Road projects, while over 20 agreements spanning currency swaps, research and space cooperation reflect extensive common ground. Over the past decade, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has firmly positioned itself as a cornerstone of win-win development between China and Pakistan, underlining the significance of new growth points agreed during the visit. A joint consensus to develop new innovation, green and open corridors effectively broadens CPEC's horizons and adds to its cross-regional connectivity offerings.

Emphasis on areas such as industrial development, information and communications technology, livelihood projects, mining and mineral exploration can also deliver tangible dividends for Pakistan's economic transformation, and support employment and labor force participation amid Pakistan's population boom. Their joint statement reads: "The two sides will continue to view the relationship between China and Pakistan from a strategic and long-term perspective, move forward together on the path of development, and accelerate the building of an even closer China-Pakistan community with shared future in the new era."

As a time-tested partner, Beijing has long recognized the value of scaling up Pakistan's export basket potential. It has also sustained high-level industrial linkages to assist the requisite capacity-building in Pakistan, underlining the value of accelerated progress toward special economic zones made during Kakar's trip. Sound cooperation across working groups and businesses has undoubtedly contributed to the completion of over 50 CPEC projects valued at $25 billion, setting the stage for the next phase of high quality development.

Since its inception, CPEC has also positioned itself as a major catalyst for employment in Pakistan, and is anticipated to deliver over 2 million jobs by the end of this decade. "China is ready to work with Pakistan to build an upgraded China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, tap into the potential for cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries, and promote cooperation in digital economy, telecommunications, technological innovation and other fields," Premier Li Qiang said during Kakar's visit.

Beyond the corridor, China and Pakistan are likely to build on the framework of their free trade agreement to increase exports, and strengthen business-to-business exchanges for multisector investments. This understanding is a prominent feature of their joint consensus to deepen the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, and comes at a time when Islamabad has set up its Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to promote foreign investment and Chinese business operations.

One of the hallmarks of the decades-old China-Pakistan relationship is the value each side confers upon the other's core interests. Kakar's visit further crystallized Pakistan's resolute support for the security and protection of all Chinese personnel, a potent reminder against any anti-state activity that aims to target their partnership or core assets. For years, China and Pakistan have led resolute efforts to stamp out terrorism in all forms and have called for political settlements in regional conflict hotspots such as Afghanistan.

As such, Kakar's high-profile trip made clear that China and Pakistan treat conflict resolution as an international imperative that is central to world peace. A case in point is the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict, where shared concerns over rapid conflict escalations have attracted much needed emphasis on ceasing hostilities and prioritizing peace talks. China and Pakistan's track record of robust humanitarian support at key forums such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization leaves both sides well attuned to the fundamentals of enduring peace, and the need for international powers to unite and prevent protracted spells of suffering by vulnerable populations.

Ultimately, Kakar's five-day visit opened up new growth points for CPEC's high quality development, consolidated two-way investment cooperation, and demonstrated principled support for regional and international security. As such, the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership looks set to grow by leaps and bounds.

Hannan R. Hussain is a foreign affairs commentator, author and recipient of the Fulbright Award.

Opinion articles reflect the views of their authors, not necessarily those of China.org.cn.
Tel Aviv  Israel carried out an hours-long, overnight ground raid into the northern Gaza Strip, the country's military said Thursday, as part of "preparations for the next stages of the war" with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) released video of the raid showing a bulldozer leveling a raised bank amid explosions and tank fire in the Hamas-run Palestinian territory. The timing of a long expected full-scale Israeli ground invasion remained unclear Thursday, but the consequences of Israel's relentless airstrikes, which started immediately after Hamas' brutal terror attack on Israel, have already been catastrophic for the 2.3 million people trapped inside Gaza.

The United Nations estimates that some 1.4 million people have been displaced from their homes within the densely populated region. Gaza's health care system is on the verge of total collapse, with over half of its health care facilities no longer functioning, according to the World Health Organization. Water is running out, along with stocks of anesthesia and other vital medicines. Some aid has started flowing in this week, but crucially, no fuel supplies have been allowed across the border into Gaza.

If Israel destroys Hamas, who will lead the Palestinians in Gaza?

The stream of injured being rushed to Gaza's hospitals after airstrikes continues. Many of the victims are young children, even babies.

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, Oct. 26, 2023, in Khan Younis, Gaza. / Credit: Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty

Gaza's Hamas-run Ministry of Health said Wednesday that over 750 people were killed in the previous 24 hours  the second day in a row that it claimed a toll over 700. The total toll in Gaza since Israel started its airstrikes stands at over 7,000, according to the ministry, including the disputed death toll from an explosion at the al-Ahli hospital last week.

Israel says Hamas killed more than 1,400 people in its unprecedented attack on October 7 and with its ongoing rocket attacks. The Israeli military said Thursday that 224 people were still believed to be held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. Hamas' military wing said, meanwhile, that Israel had killed 50 of the hostages with its airstrikes on Gaza.

Aid agencies and many countries in the region have warned that an Israeli ground incursion will mean even greater loss of civilian life.

Dr. Muhammed Kandeel, who works at the Nasser Hospital in Gaza, told CBS News he doesn't even have water to wash his hands sometimes, risking infection among the many wounded people he's treating.

"They will know they are going to die, because the hospitals have nothing to offer them," he said. "It cannot be described by words. It's hell."

He said the situation is so horrific that he has almost given up.

"We feel we are not a part of the human community," Kandeel told CBS News. "If we are sub-human, just tell us, so we can take action by ourselves."

Those who cannot be saved are taken to morgues where overwhelmed staff have been running out of the traditional Islamic shrouds used to prepare bodies for burial. And every day brings new airstrikes and fresh trauma.

Overnight, Al Jazeera journalist Wael Al Dahdouh said he learned that his wife, daughter and son were killed alongside 12 other members of his family. They had relocated to the south of Gaza, where they hoped to find relative safety as Israel's military has repeatedly urged Palestinians to evacuate to the area.

"Strikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties," the IDF said in a statement shared with CBS News on Thursday. "Regarding this specific case, the IDF targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area."

Palestinian militants from Hamas and other groups have fired barrages of rockets into Israel since the war began, most of which have been intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome defense system. The IDF says it only strikes militant targets in Gaza and accuses Hamas of using civilians as human shields, hiding weapons and command centers in schools, mosques and other civilian infrastructure.

Israel has allowed 74 trucks carrying aid into Gaza through the Rafah crossing from Egypt, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said Thursday. Aid workers say it's nowhere near what is necessary, and is only a fraction of the aid that was coming in every day before the war. Israel says it won't allow fuel deliveries into Gaza because Hamas will use it to continue its assault, and it has accused the group  long designated a terror organization by the U.S., Israel and most European nations  of hoarding fuel there.

UNRWA, the U.N. organization that works with Palestinians across the region, has been sharing its fuel supplies to power generators so water can be desalinated, bread can be baked and hospitals can keep incubators and life support machines running. The agency said it's being forced to ration its fuel supplies, or it could run out as soon as Thursday.

"Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries?" UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press. "It is an excruciating decision."

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Israeli Defense Forces released footage of an airstrike they say killed senior Hamas commander Hassan Al-Abdullah on Thursday.

The footage, apparently taken from an Israeli jet, shows several airstrikes in Gaza. Israel conducted some 250 such strikes on Hamas targets over just 24 hours on Thursday.

"IDF fighter jets carried out a precise air strike based on IDF and ISA intelligence and eliminated the Commander of Hamas' Northern Khan Yunis Rockets Array, Hassan Al-Abdullah," the IDF wrote in a statement.

Al-Abdullah is only the latest senior commander Israeli forces have killed, and he is unlikely to be the last. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that all Hamas members involved in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel will be killed, and that Hamas itself will be "destroyed."

ISRAEL CONDUCTS BRIEF GROUND INCURSIONS IN GAZA AS NETANYAHU VOWS INVASION AGAINST HAMAS: LIVE UPDATES

Israeli Defense Forces released footage of an airstrike they say killed senior Hamas commander Hassan Al-Abdullah on Thursday.

Later on Thursday, the IDF said it also eliminated a top Hamas intelligence official who it said assisted in the planning of Hamas' Oct. 7 assault. Israel identified the target as Shadi Barud, deputy head of Hamas' Intelligence Directorate.

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"Shadi Barud, Deputy Head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate has been eliminated by an IDF aerial strike," the Israeli military wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis."

"We will continue to strike and eliminate Hamas leaders and operatives responsible for the barbaric attacks," it added.

GAZA HOSTAGE CRISIS RESPONSE SHOWS BIDEN, BLINKEN HAVEN'T LEARNED ANYTHING FROM AFGHANISTAN: GOLD STAR DAD

Israel remains poised for a full-scale invasion of northern Gaza, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says is imminent.

The airstrikes came the same day that Israel conducted its largest-yet incursion into Gaza. Tanks and other armored vehicles eliminated Hamas terrorist cells along the Gaza border in a brief but expansive operation early Thursday morning.

MEDIA RUNNING HAMAS NARRATIVE ON GAZA HOSPITAL DIRECTLY CONTRIBUTED TO ENDANGERING US EMBASSIES ABROAD

The operation was meant to "prepare the battlefield" for an expected ground operation in the Palestinian territory after a two-week-long airstrike campaign, a military spokesman said.

Israeli Defense Forces made 60 arrests in the West Bank, of which 46 were Hamas members. Since the start of the war on Oct. 7, about 1,000 wanted individuals have been arrested, the IDF said.

Israel remains poised for a full-scale invasion of northern Gaza, which Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says is imminent.

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Additionally, the IDF made 60 arrests in the West Bank, of which 46 where Hamas members. Since the start of the war on Oct. 7, about 1,000 wanted individuals have been arrested, the IDF said.





Original article source: Israeli military releases footage of airstrike that killed senior Hamas commander
Footage released by the Israeli army on October 26, 2023 shows an overnight 'targeted raid' inside northern Gaza with tanks and infantry (-)

Israel sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the Gaza Strip in a "targeted raid" overnight that destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing from the Hamas-run territory, the army said Thursday.

Black smoke billowed into the night sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway.

On the 20th day of Israel's deadliest Gaza war yet, that has already killed thousands, the army said its forces had hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts".

The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", it said, adding that the soldiers had "returned to Israeli territory".

The black-and-white video showed a column of armoured vehicles moving near Gaza's border fence. Other footage appeared to show an air strike and buildings being struck with munitions, sending debris flying high into the air.

Just hours earlier, Netanyahu had delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after Hamas's bloody October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence".

The shock attack, the worst in the country's history, saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 224 more, according to official tallies.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said has killed more than 6,500, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near Gaza move in.

That scenario has further heightened international alarm as shock is growing about the scale of human suffering inside the besieged territory where Israel has cut off most water, food, fuel and other basic supplies.

In southern Gaza, a bereaved Palestinian woman, Umm Omar al-Khaldi, recounted to AFP how she witnessed her neighbours being killed in an Israeli strike that reduced the house to rubble, with many feared buried beneath.

"We saw them getting bombarded -- the children got bombarded while their mother was hugging them," the woman said, desperately pleading for help from the outside world.

"Where are the Arabs, where is humanity?" she said. "Have mercy on us, have mercy on us."

- 'Nowhere is safe' -

The war's surging death toll is by far the highest since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the small coastal territory in 2005 -- a period that has seen four previous Gaza wars.

Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons are operating without anaesthetic on some of the wounded, and ice-cream trucks have become makeshift morgues.

In chaotic scenes, volunteer emergency crew and neighbours have clawed, sometimes with their bare hands, through broken concrete and sand to pull out civilian casualties.

All too often they recover only their corpses, which have piled up, wrapped in blood-stained white shrouds.

"Nowhere is safe in Gaza," said Lynne Hastings, UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories.

US President Joe Biden, a strong supporter of Israel, has joined the calls for it to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas targets.

Leaders of the 27-member European Union were on Thursday debating whether to call for a "humanitarian pause" in the war to deliver desperately needed aid.

French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking in Cairo on Wednesday, warned that "a massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error".

And Jordan's King Abdullah said anger at the suffering could "lead to an explosion" in the Middle East.

- 'Raining down hellfire' -

Netanyahu -- amid the growing calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign -- said that Israel had been "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists".

He said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" with the goal to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home".

But he stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part.

Netanyahu also acknowledged for the first time that he would have to explain the security lapses exposed on October 7.

"The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me," he said. "But all this will happen later."

Biden, also contemplating the future, stressed that "when this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next".

He reiterated that Washington supports a two-state solution with independent Israeli and Palestinian states.

"It means a concentrated effort for all the parties -- Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, global leaders -- to put us on a path toward peace," said the US president.

For now though, the raging war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies such as Iran-backed Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

There has also been a rise of attacks on Israel's top ally the United States, which has a vast network of military bases across the Middle East.

About 2,500 American troops are stationed in Iraq and some 900 in Syria to help fight remnants of the Islamic State jihadist group.

The Pentagon said there were 10 attacks on US and allied forces in Iraq and three in Syria between October 17 and 24, involving a "mix of one-way attack drones and rockets."

burs-jd/fz/dv
People search for survivors and the bodies of victims through the rubble of buildings destroyed during Israeli bombardment, in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on October 26, 2023 (Mahmud HAMS)

European Union leaders called Thursday for "humanitarian corridors and pauses" to get aid into Gaza as the United Nations warned "nowhere" in the territory is safe from Israel's retaliation for bloody Hamas attacks.

Hamas's armed wing said Israeli strikes have killed almost 50 of the hostages its militants seized during the October 7 attacks, a claim which AFP could not immediately verify.

The attacks saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 224 more, according to official tallies.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near the border thrust across.

The joint statement from EU leaders came after hours of negotiations at a summit in Brussels.

The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

"The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza," the statement said.

It "calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs," the statement added.

- 'Nowhere is safe' -

Earlier, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, said that despite the Israeli military issuing warnings to people in Gaza City to leave, "advance warnings make no difference".

She said in a statement that when evacuation routes are bombed, "people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza."

The army said it had sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the enclave in a "targeted raid" on Wednesday night that it said destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing.

Black smoke billowed into the sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the Israeli military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were under way.

The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", the military said.

The raid came after Netanyahu delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after the October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence".

International alarm has increased amid growing shock about the scale of human suffering inside the besieged Palestinian territory where Israel has cut off most water, food, fuel and other basic supplies.

In southern Gaza, a grieving Umm Omar al-Khaldi told AFP how she saw her neighbours being killed in an Israeli strike that reduced the house to rubble, with many feared buried beneath.

"We saw them getting bombarded -- the children got bombarded while their mother was hugging them," the woman said, desperately pleading for help from the outside world.

"Where are the Arabs, where is humanity?" she asked.

Amnesty International called for an immediate ceasefire to ensure "access to life-saving aid for people in Gaza amidst an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe".

- Surging death toll -

The war's surging death toll is by far the highest since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the coastal enclave in 2005 -- a period that has seen four previous Gaza wars.

Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons are operating without anaesthetic, and ice-cream trucks have become makeshift morgues.

In chaotic scenes, volunteers and neighbours have clawed, sometimes with their bare hands, through shattered concrete and sand to pull out civilian casualties.

All too often they recover only corpses which have piled up, wrapped in bloodstained white shrouds.

US President Joe Biden, a strong supporter of Israel, has joined the calls for it to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas.

French President Emmanuel Macron warned Wednesday that "a massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error".

And Jordan's King Abdullah II said anger at the suffering could "lead to an explosion" in the Middle East.

- 'Raining down hellfire' -

Netanyahu -- amid the growing calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign -- said Israel had been "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists".

He said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" with the goal to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home".

But he stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part.

Netanyahu also acknowledged for the first time that he would have to explain the security lapses exposed on October 7.

"The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me," he said. "But all this will happen later."

Biden stressed that "when this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next".

He reiterated that Washington supports a two-state solution with independent Israeli and Palestinian states.

"It means a concentrated effort for all the parties -- Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, global leaders -- to put us on a path toward peace," Biden said.

The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies such as Iran-backed Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

There has also been a rise in attacks on Israel's top ally, which has military bases across the Middle East.

About 2,500 American troops are stationed in Iraq and some 900 in Syria to help fight remnants of the Islamic State jihadist group.

The Pentagon said there were 10 attacks on US and allied forces in Iraq and three in Syria between October 17 and 24, involving a "mix of one-way attack drones and rockets".

burs-jd/fz/kir/srm
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a brief raid in northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, striking targets the military said it must to prepare the battlefield.

The raid comes as reports indicate fuel supply in Gaza is running out and international organizations underscore the urgent need to deliver more humanitarian aid to civilians in the region.

International humanitarian law protects people during conflict and helps ensure humanitarian assistance reaches those in need, without discrimination, the United Nations wrote early Thursday morning in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

A day earlier, the U.N. Human Rights account posted a similar message, referencing the dwindling resources the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is working with to provide aid to civilians in northern Gaza.

Were extremely distressed that critical @UNRWA ops in Gaza are at risk due to critical fuel shortages, the U.N. Human Rights account said on X.

Fuel aid must be permitted to operate generators essential for hospitals, sanitation, water treatment, food & UN work in helping civilians & protecting human rights across Gaza, the post continued.

The calls come as Israel reportedly prepares for a ground invasion that has been anticipated for nearly two weeks.

Israel has said the goal is twofold: to destroy the militant group Hamas  which the United States has designated as a terrorist organization  and to retrieve the more than 200 hostages the group took captive Oct. 7, in a surprise attack that killed about 1,400 Israelis.

Israels task is especially difficult because Hamas has notoriously deployed tactics that put its civilians in harms way, including setting up launch posts in hospitals and schools, effectively using civilians as shields.

The Gaza Health Ministry, run by Hamas, estimated more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began  a number that includes the disputed estimate of deaths at an explosion near a hospital.

Israeli officials have pushed back on reports that Gaza is running out of fuel, with a spokesperson on Thursday pointing to a similar report Oct. 16 that said Gaza had only 24 hours left of fuel.

Israel also claimed Hamas has a lot of fuel it is preserving for war purposes.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Dahman)

RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  Israeli troops and tanks briefly raided northern Gaza overnight, the military said Thursday, engaging with Hamas fighters and targeting anti-tank weapons in order to prepare the battlefield before an expected ground invasion.

The third Israeli raid since the war began came after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes that have left thousands dead, and more than 1 million displaced from their homes, in the small, densely-populated territory.

The U.S. military, meanwhile, launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said, in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

Arab leaders made a joint plea Thursday for a cease-fire to end civilian suffering and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, where Israel has imposed a suffocating siege ever since Hamas rampage and hostage-taking in southern Israel ignited the war. Residents are running out of food, water and medicine, and U.N. workers have barely any fuel left to support relief missions.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Thursday more than 7,000 Palestinians have died in the fighting, a figure that could not be independently verified. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches a ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

More than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians, were slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

The damage to Gaza from nearly three weeks of bombardment showed in satellite photos of several locations taken before the war and again in recent days.

Entire rows of residential buildings simply disappear in the photos, reduced to smears of dust and rubble. A complex of 13 high-rises by the sea was pounded to dust near Gaza City's al-Shati refugee camp, leaving only a few tottering bits of facade. Just down the street, hardly anything remained in what had been a neighborhood of low-built homes on winding lanes, according to the photos by Maxar Technologies.

New strikes Thursday leveled more than eight homes belonging to an extended family, killing at least 15 people in the southern city of Khan Younis. In the chaotic wasteland of crumbled concrete and twisted metal, rescuers lifted the body of a boy from beneath a slab.

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Oct. 7 massacre, Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit. The military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Palestinian militants have fired thousands of rockets into Israel since the war began. One struck a residential building in the central city of Petah Tikva, without wounding anyone.

Hamas military wing said Thursday that Israeli bombardment has so far killed about 50 of the at least 224 hostages the militants abducted during its Oct. 7 assault. There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials, who have denied previous, similar claims.

Family members and Jewish groups are trying to keep the spotlight on the hostages' plight. In Paris, 30 empty baby strollers were displayed in front of the Eiffel Tower  each with a photo of one of the children taken from Israel. A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of the abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

The conflict has threatened to ignite a wider war across the region.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed ally of Hamas in Lebanon, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel along the border. The United States has sent to the region two aircraft carrier strike groups, along with additional fighter jets and other weaponry and personnel.

In a statement Thursday night, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the strikes in eastern Syria were a response to a series of ongoing and mostly unsuccessful attacks against U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups that began on Oct. 17.

He said President Joe Biden directed the narrowly tailored strikes to make clear that the United States will not tolerate such attacks and will defend itself, its personnel and its interests. He added that the operation was separate and distinct from Israels war against Hamas.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas capacity to govern Gaza or threaten Israel again but also says it doesnt want to reoccupy the territory, from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005. That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Gaza, with political and charity organizations as well as a formidable armed wing.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

The overnight raid into Gaza was the largest of several known brief incursions. The military said soldiers and tanks killed fighters and destroyed tunnels and anti-tank missile launching positions. The military said no Israelis were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Israel also said it also carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure. Its reported targeting could not be independently verified.

The figure of 7,000 deaths reported by the Gaza Health Ministry is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. The ministrys toll includes more than 2,900 minors and more than 1,500 women.

After Biden said he had no confidence in Gaza's casualty figures, the Health Ministry on Thursday countered by releasing a more than 200-page document listing the names of 6,747 dead, including ages and gender. It said another 281 dead had not been identified and that hundreds still missing under rubble were not included in the count.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it for military use.

About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowding into U.N. shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south and saying that those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel has let more than 70 trucks with aid enter from Egypt.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean, said William Schomburg, an official with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

Elsewhere, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday that an explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba, which is near the border with Israel. Five people were wounded. The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

Nine Arab countries  including key U.S. allies and nations that have signed peace or normalization deals with Israel  issued a joint statement Thursday calling for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the targeting and death of civilians.

The right to self defense by the United Nations Charter does not justify blatant violations of humanitarian and international law, said the statement, signed by Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Morocco.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli authorities detained 86 Palestinians, including five women, in multiple raids overnight, bringing the total detained there to more than 1,400, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, which represents former and current prisoners. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed in violence in the West Bank.

___

Chehayeb reported from Beirut and Teibel from Jerusalem. Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, Jack Jeffery in Cairo and Brian Melley in London contributed to this report.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated that his forces will carry out a ground invasion of Gaza, but the timing of the impending assault has been complicated by the Wests concerns over risking a full-blown conflict in the Middle East, the safety of hostages still being held by Hamas, and the possible violation of humanitarian laws.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that a massive invasion would be an error for Israel and incompatible with humanitarian law. Israels allies, especially the U.S., are also worried that a Gaza invasion will further destabilize the Middle East, giving adversaries like China the opportunity to expand its influence.

The invasions timing and tactics could be significantly shaped by the U.S. concerns of preventing a large-scale Middle East conflict. The Biden administrations tone on Israels response has gradually shifted from full throated support of the countrys retaliation to Hamas attack to now delaying the prospect of a ground invasion to focus more on hostage rescue and humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Hill reports. Netanyahu has historically not been enthusiastic about large-scale ground invasions, writes Amos Harel for Haaretz, and US military officials are concerned that the Israeli forces have no achievable military goals in Gaza. Given such circumstances, the U.S. solution to a ground invasion could involve airstrikes, smaller ground incursions, and assassinations of senior Hamas figures instead of door-to-door raids as the IDF has historically done.

Its a high-wire act for Iran to manage its involvement in the war while balancing regional interests with internal stability, Reuters reports. On one hand, being on the sidelines of a full-blown Israeli invasion of Gaza could set Iran back in its pursuit of regional domination and be perceived as a sign of weakness by its proxy forces. But getting itself drawn into the conflict would spark public backlash and further fuel its economic crisis. Tehran is facing this dilemma of whether to send Hezbollah to save their arm in the Gaza Strip or to let go of this arm and give it up, one former Israeli intelligence official said. Theyre calculating their risks.

China is adopting the Ukraine playbook on the IsraelHamas war in an effort to undermine the U.S. and its allies unconditional support for Israel, writes Ahmed Aboudouh, a fellow at the Chatham House think tank. In publicly positioning itself as a neutral mediator, Beijing is not providing Israel with military assistance or funding so as to appease Global South countries, many of whom are sympathetic to the Palestinian cause and could help China in the long run by rallying behind its causes in Xinjiang and Taiwan. Chinas non-interventionist stance means it cannot directly influence a ground invasion, but Beijing is aiming to degrade the U.S. global standing and win the discourse power war, Aboudouh writes.
Russia will not be able to recruit enough personnel to staff its planned formations, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) wrote in its Oct. 25 report.

Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev claimed on Oct. 25 that over 1,600 people enter into service contracts per day, and that 385,000 have joined Russia's armed forces since Jan. 1 of this year.

Medvedev also announced that Russia intends to establish new military formations in 2024, including 19 brigades, 49 regiments, and a flotilla, as part of large-scale military reform.

"It remains highly unlikely, however, that Russia will be able to fully staff these formations to their doctrinal end strength," the ISW said.

The ISW also noted that the Russian government continues to offer new social benefits to servicemembers in attempts to incentivize participation in the war against Ukraine. By increasing incentives, Russia hopes to avoid another disastrous round of forced mobilization ahead of the March 2024 presidential elections.

Russia's need for new recruits continues to intensify as its war against Ukraine drags on into its second winter.

Russian forces continue to sustain heavy losses on the eastern front, particularly near Avdiivka. Russia flooded the battleground city with troops on Oct. 10 in hopes of a rapid advance, but instead met with heavy Ukrainian resistance.

The ISW reported that Russian forces did make a confirmed advance near Avdiivka on Oct. 25, amid heavy losses to personnel and equipment.

Ukrainian forces also made marginal gains in western Zaporizhzhia Oblast, the report said.

Read also: Record Russian armor, personnel losses in failed attempt to take Avdiivka by storm

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The Italian government appointed a former prime minister to head up the countrys artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives, prompting anger among many arguing the mans age of 85 should disqualify him from the role.

"Under this government, we are becoming a country that is unable to take into consideration our young people, a dinosaur-ocracy stuck in an outdated and conservative vision," MP Emma Pavanelli said in response to Giuliano Amatos appointment as head of the Artificial Intelligence Algorithms Commission.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was not informed of the appointment, and she said she was "irritated" by the development, according to The Telegraph.

Italy earlier this year blocked ChatGPTs use in the country amid concerns about user data and site processes, but the decision was later reversed.

NEW TECHNOLOGY SET TO REVOLUTIONIZE HOW FAST-FOOD RESTAURANTS OPERATE

Former Italian Prime Minister and ex Constitutional Court Chief Giuliano Amato attends a hearing by the COPASIR, the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic, about the June 1980 Ustica air disaster at Palazzo San Macuto, Oct. 3, 2023, in Rome.

Italian outlet Il Tempo asked why Italy appointed the elderly Amato while other nations, such as the United Kingdom, appointed younger, more experienced experts to lead similar initiatives. The outlet claimed Amatos appointment left "many" people "dumbfounded."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

WHAT IS ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)?

The Algorithms Commission will carry out fact-finding investigations into the new technology and determine the "positive and negative" implications of its use, particularly on "publication and information." The commission includes 10 people, including a research director at the Center for Artificial Intelligence, the director of the CNR Institute for Networks and High Performance Computing and university professors and other experts.

In a newspaper interview a month ago, Giuliano Amato said the most likely explanation for the downing of the passenger plane of the Itavia line was that it got in the way of a French missile aimed at a Libyan jet believed to be carrying Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Those experts will now have to answer to Amato, whose appointment reportedly happened due to a "communication mix-up," according to the undersecretary of the presidency of the Technological Innovation Council. He apologized for making the appointment without informing Meloni.

Members of parliament challenged Amatos credentials with information technology, with the newspaper La Stampa challenging whether Amato knows "what an algorithm is."

"Will he be able to look it up on Google?" the publication wondered.

RETIRED GENERAL REVEALS CRITICAL COMPONENT US MILITARY NEEDS TO STAY AHEAD OF POTENTIAL ADVERSARIES

"Why not appoint a young person, there are plenty who are capable," the paper wrote. "Thats easy to answer  because in Italy, we suffer from Albus Dumbledore syndrome."

That was a reference to the principal of Harry Potters school, Hogwarts.

The Telegraph reported that Melonis party and opposition party Forza Italia, which nominated Amato for the role, have had "strained" relations after allegations the party was part of creating a scandal for the prime minister revolving around her husband, a presenter at a channel run by conglomerate Mediaset.

The company belonged to former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi, who was also a member of Forza Italia until his death in June.





Original article source: Italian government mocked over appointment of aging AI czar: 'Dumbledore syndrome'
ROME  The Italian navy could soon be protecting sub-sea, rare earth mining in the Mediterranean, adding to its defense of internet cables on the sea bed, an Italian minister has predicted.

Urgently needed for making batteries, phones, lasers, satellites and microchips, rare earth minerals, as well as lithium, are in high demand in the West, which has lagged behind Chinas sourcing of stocks.

The hunt for rare earths that can be mined on land is underway in Europe, but surveys show rich seams are also present under the oceans.

We know there are rare earths below the sea floor of the Mediterranean  we can make up the gap by going under the sea, Italian junior defense minister Matteo Perego di Cremnago told Defense News.

The Italian navy is already talking to industry to plan how it could offer security to such a strategic endeavor, he added.

The navy could contribute divers, submarines, minesweepers ... and unmanned technology will be important, he said.

Drones that will have the ability to recharge autonomously with solar energy by coming to surface will be able to monitor infrastructure and sub-sea mining, the minister added.

Lithium, which is essential in car batteries and key to the worlds shift away from gas-fueled vehicles, is mainly mined in Australia, China and South America.

As Europe predicts it will need 35 times more lithium by 2050, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen has said the white powder will soon be even more important than oil and gas.

Environmental groups have claimed sub-sea mining will damage natural habitats on the sea bed and urged a moratorium.

The need to safeguard strategic undersea infrastructure has become more urgent since the Nord Stream gas pipeline attack in the Baltic Sea last year.

In the wake of the attack the Italian navy committed to use its submarines to monitor and deter sabotage of undersea internet cables in the Mediterranean as part of a deal with Italys biggest private cable provider.

This year, Italy took the lead on a new project in the EUs Permanent Structured Cooperation, or PESCO, scheme which will seek to beef up sub-sea security for energy pipelines and internet cables criss-crossing the world on the seabed.

Italian naval officials have suggested that in the near future, undersea naval drones patrolling pipelines and cables will be able to stop off at charging stations on the seabed to top up their battery and drop off data, letting them stay submerged for months.

Perego di Cremnago said future roles for the navy in protecting sub-sea infrastructure would be worked on at a new undersea technology centre due to open at La Spezia in Italy next year, which will bring together companies, universities, research centers and the navy.

This will put us in the forefront. It will put everything together, he said.
 Flash

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday.

The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

He said the two sides have shown mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, made solid progress in cooperation across the board, and constantly deepened friendship between the two peoples.

The establishment of the strategic partnership is the result of the long-term efforts of all sectors of the two countries, and also a natural manifestation of mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides, Xi noted, adding that such a result should be cherished by both sides and continuously enriched and developed.

"China is willing to work with Colombia to promote the China-Colombia strategic partnership to better benefit the two peoples and inject positive energy into world peace and development," he said.

Xi said China supports Colombia's independent exploration of a development path suited to its national conditions, supports the peace process in Colombia, hopes that Colombia can realize comprehensive, lasting and sustainable peace at an early date, and believes that China's high-quality development and modernization process will bring new development opportunities to Colombia and other countries.

China-Colombia relations are based on equality, mutual benefit and win-win results, Xi said, adding that Colombia is welcome to join the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) at an early date to achieve common development and prosperity.

Xi called on the two sides to make good use of the mixed economic and trade committee mechanism, optimize bilateral trade structure, and strengthen cooperation in information, communications, digital economy and other fields. China encourages more high-quality Colombian products to enter the Chinese market, he added.

He also called for joint efforts to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral law enforcement cooperation, expressing hope that Colombia can better ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in the country.

As developing countries, China and Colombia should strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs to safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Xi also said China attaches great importance to developing relations with Latin America and the Caribbean, and is willing to continue to support the regional integration process in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Colombia is willing to maintain communication with China on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, among others, and push for a solution to stop the war and cool down the situation as soon as possible, said Petro, adding that Colombia welcomes the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi, and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral mechanisms.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the strategic partnership.
"Squad" Democrat Rep. Jamaal Bowman of New York pleaded guilty in D.C. Superior Court on charges that he illegally pulled a House office building fire alarm.

D.C. Assistant Attorney General Peter Saba criminally charged Bowman with a misdemeanor for causing a false fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building ahead of a Sept. 30 vote.

Bowman, 47, turned himself in on Thursday morning ahead of his arraignment, wearing a navy suit, striped shirt and blue tie and carrying a gray backpack. He pleaded guilty to causing the false alarm.

JAMAAL BOWMAN CRIMINALLY CHARGED IN CAPITOL HILL FIRE ALARM INCIDENT

"Squad" Democrat Rep. Jamaal Bowman of New York appeared at the D.C. Superior Court for his arraignment on charges that he illegally pulled a House office building fire alarm.

The New York Democrat told reporters ahead of the arraignment that he is "taking responsibility" for causing the false alarm and that "Hell no" he didn't mean to pull the alarm.

"What I did was against D.C. law," Bowman said. "As I said from the very beginning, I was not trying to disrupt any congressional proceedings, I'm glad the investigation yielded that."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Bowman pulled the fire alarm ahead of a crucial vote as the GOP pushed a critical stopgap funding bill to avoid a government shutdown.

Bowman pulled the fire alarm ahead of a crucial vote as the GOP pushed a critical stopgap funding bill to avoid a government shutdown.

Bowman got a plea deal: Write a letter of apology to the U.S. Capitol Police and pay a $1,000 fine.

D.C. Superior Court Judge Dorsey Jones told Bowman that he could face six months in prison and a $1,000 fine if he does not write the letter of apology.

Bowman's office told Fox News Digital that the congressman's deal with the D.C. attorney general would see the charges withdrawn if he writes the letter and pays the fine.

"Im thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia Attorney Generals office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol Police General Counsels office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings," Bowman told Fox News Digital. "I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped."

"I think we all know that Republicans will attempt to use this to distract everyone from their mess, but I look forward to putting this behind me and to continue working hard to deliver for New Yorkers," he continued.

Bowman will have a review hearing on Jan. 29, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.

Bowman said Wednesday that he was "thankful for the quick resolution" with law enforcement. The D.C. attorney general's office told the press on Wednesday that Bowman would be "pleading guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine."

"I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," Bowman said.

An arrest warrant filed by U.S. Capitol Police Supervisory Special Agent Joseph McAtee says police were notified on Sept. 30 at 12:05 p.m. that a fire alarm had been pulled inside the Cannon House Office Building on the second floor.

When Bowman was interviewed by Capitol Police agents, he told them he responded "yes" when asked if he knew anything about the fire alarm. The Democratic representative said he was in a rush because votes were being called, adding that the door is usually open.

Bowman, according to the arrest warrant, told the agents he saw the nearby doors with a sign that said, "emergency exit only push to open," so "he pushed on the door and pulled the lever next to it, which must have been the alarm."

"[Bowman] advised that usually when votes are called, all doors are open, and that door is usually open (the second-floor door leading to Independence Ave). The defendant further stated that this door was a usual door he uses. The defendant advised that he then went to a Dem (Democratic) meeting and a vote at the Capitol, then the House Sergeant at Arms contacted him," the warrant states.

Bowman told the agent he didnt intend to pull a fire alarm and didnt intend to disrupt or obstruct a congressional proceeding , then stated that he needed to get a lawyer and wouldn't make any further statements.

The agent wrote in the arrest warrant there was a sign next to the door that said "Emergency Exit Only," adding that the fire alarm had lettering that said, "FIRE. Push in Pull Down." Security camera footage reviewed by Capitol Police allegedly revealed that Bowman attempted to open both doors before pulling the fire alarm, then walked away.

Fox News Digital's Adam Sabes, Jake Gibson and Aubrie Spady contributed to this report.





Original article source: Jamaal Bowman pleads guilty in DC court arraignment on charges for pulling fire alarm
Pleading guilty to a misdemeanour charge and pledging to pay a fine for pulling a fire alarm in a congressional building as a crucial vote loomed, the Democratic New York congressman Jamaal Bowman hit out at Republicans for making crazy comparisons to rioters who attacked Congress on January 6.

Thats crazy, Bowman told reporters outside court in Washington on Thursday, laughing as he did so.

Yeah, thats crazy, immediately likening me to insurrectionists, what happened on January 6. I mean, this is what they do. They weaponise any opportunity they can  so we dont focus on their own dysfunction and destruction of their own party.

Kevin McCarthy , then speaker of the House, and the extremist Marjorie Taylor Greene were among Republicans to make the January 6 comparison after the 30 September incident, in which Bowman was captured on camera pulling the alarm in the Cannon office building as a vote on a stopgap funding measure, which ultimately staved off a government shutdown, drew near.

Claiming Bowman had reached a new low, McCarthy said: We watched how people have been treated if theyve done something wrong in this Capitol. It would be interesting to see how he is treated and what he was trying to obstruct when it came to the American public.

On 6 January 2021, a mob told to fight like hell by Donald Trump attacked Congress in an attempt to stop certification of Joe Bidens election win. The effort failed but nine deaths have been linked to the riot, including law enforcement suicides. Thousands of arrests have been made and hundreds of convictions have been secured, some for seditious conspiracy. Trump was impeached.

Bowman immediately denied seeking to delay the vote, saying: As I was rushing to make a vote, I came to a door that is usually open for votes but today was not open. I am embarrassed to admit that I activated the fire alarm, mistakenly thinking it would open the door. I regret this and sincerely apologise for any confusion this caused.

This Wednesday, the office of the DC attorney general confirmed that Bowman would plead guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine. A spokesperson said: Congressman Bowman was treated like anyone else who violates the law in the District of Columbia. Based on the evidence presented by Capitol police, we charged the only crime that we have jurisdiction to prosecute.

In a statement, Bowman said he was thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia attorney generals office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol police general counsels office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote of proceedings.

I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges ultimately being dropped.

He also predicted that Republicans would attempt to use this to distract everyone from their mess, a reference to the three-week standoff over electing a speaker to succeed McCarthy which finally ended on Wednesday with the installation of Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a Trumpist hardliner.

Summoned to court on Thursday, Bowman spoke to reporters.

You remember that day, he said of 30 September. It was like, it was a lot going on. It was difficult to keep the government open. There was a motion to adjourn. So I was just in a rush, man, you know, trying to get downstream. I was actually running to the Capitol at one point. So I was just in a hurry and  so that was all my bad.

As a leading and combative progressive, Bowman, a former school principal in the Bronx in New York City, has often being a target for Republican invective.

On Wednesday, Lisa McLain, a Michigan Republican, introduced a resolution to formally censure Bowman and remove him from all committee assignments for the remainder of the 118th Congress.

Bryan Steil, the Republican chair of the House administration committee, called for an ethics investigation. Bowmans excuse does not pass the sniff test, Steil said, adding: After pulling the fire alarm, Representative Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol police officers and had every opportunity to alert USCP of his mistake.

Bowman said: I look forward to putting this behind me and to continue working hard to deliver for New Yorkers.
A congressman in the US House of Representatives is expected to plead guilty to falsely triggering a fire alarm in a Capitol office building.

Rep Jamaal Bowman said in a statement on Wednesday that he would pay a fine "and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped".

He is facing a single charge of "knowingly" setting off a false fire alarm, according to a court filing.

The New York Democrat has said that he triggered it by accident.

The alarm prompted an hour-long evacuation and came as Democrats were attempting to delay a vote as they sought more time to read a stopgap funding bill and decide whether to support it.

While Mr Bowman had said he triggered the alarm by mistake on 30 September - thinking it would get a door to open while he was in a rush - Republicans accused him of deliberately attempting to sabotage a vote on the bill.

Mr Bowman is due to to appear in DC on Thursday morning for his arraignment on the misdemeanour charge, which carries a maximum penalty of $1,000 (825) and six months in prison.

According to CBS, the BBC's US partner, Mr Bowman told reporters on Wednesday he would pay the fine and the charges could be dropped after three months if he follows the bail conditions. He called the incident a "lapse in judgment".

He will also write an apology letter.

"Congressman Bowman was treated like anyone else who violates the law in the District of Columbia," the spokesperson for the attorney general for the District of Columbia said.

"Based on the evidence presented by Capitol Police, we charged the only crime that we have jurisdiction to prosecute."

In an affidavit, Capitol police noted there were three signs near the door warning about activating emergency exits and fire alarms and that Mr Bowman had left the area quickly after the alarm was triggered. But the affidavit noted he had denied to police that the act was intentional or that he had meant to disrupt any official proceedings.
Japans top court has ruled that a government requirement for transgender people to be sterilized before they could be legally recognized was unconstitutional, in a victory for the countrys LGBTQ community years in the making.

Under a law enacted 20 years ago, transgender individuals who want their identity documents amended must have been diagnosed with gender identity disorder, be at least 18 years old, be unmarried and without any underage children.

They must also have genital organs resembling those of the opposite sex, and have no reproductive capacity. That means they must have undergone invasive procedures including sterilization and plastic surgery.

The law has long been decried by rights groups, and previous challenges in court have been struck down  until this case, brought by a transgender woman who wanted to change her legal gender from male to female without surgery.

The plaintiff argued that years of hormone therapy had already impacted her reproductive capabilities, according to public broadcaster NHK.

Her case had been rejected by a family court and a higher court before arriving at the Supreme Court. On Monday, the court ruled in her favor, declaring that the provision requiring sterilization was in violation of the constitution.

The restriction of freedom from bodily harm under this provision has become increasingly unnecessary at this point in time and the degree of the restriction has become more serious. Therefore, the provision in question is not necessary and reasonable, the court said in its ruling.

It added that reproductive rights are considered to be fundamental human rights under the constitution. The fact that they must unwillingly undergo removal of their reproductive capacity in order to match their self-identified sex with their legal sex is a cruel choice, the judgment said.

The historic decision is only the 12th time since World War II that the Supreme Court has judged a legal provision as unconstitutional, thus forcing Japans parliament to review the law, NHK reported.

However, that doesnt mean the whole law is being changed  only the provision requiring sterilization.

The Supreme Court declined to rule on the other provision requiring transgender individuals to have genital organs resembling the opposite sex, saying it was constitutional. That part of the case will be sent back to a lower court to deliberate, according to Mondays ruling, which added that the requirement does not directly compel transgender individuals to undergo surgery.

The ruling was met with mixed reactions  some praise and celebration within the LGBTQ community, but also concern about the remaining surgical requirements, and about broader societal attitudes.

At a press conference after the ruling, the plaintiffs lawyer Kazuyuki Minami read a statement from the plaintiff, saying she was extremely surprised at the unexpected outcome.

It is very regrettable that (my) gender change was not approved by the Grand Chamber of Justice and that the case has been postponed, she said in the statement  but added, I am glad that the outcome of this case will lead to a positive direction.

The attorney, Minami, added that there are really very few judgments that deem existing laws unconstitutional, making this ruling very significant. However, he acknowledged, it is frustrating that we havent reached the best conclusion that (the plaintiff) wants.

Ken Suzuki, a law professor specializing in LGBTQ issues at Japans Meijin University, described the courts decision as half a ruling, saying members of the community are still waiting for the lower court to decide whether other surgeries will be required to have genitals resembling the other sex.

Nonetheless, it gives them hope, he said, calling it a revolutionary judgment. Many can see how the judges actually have taken a great interest in the topic.

The National Coalition for the Establishment of Laws for Persons with Difficulties Due to Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity, also known as the LGBT Law Coalition, also applauded the decision  while saying it hoped the Supreme Court would make a fair decision on the remaining requirements for transgender individuals.

The organization also expressed strong regret over recent discriminatory incidents against transgender individuals, including widespread anxiety and fear over transgender individuals using their bathrooms of choice.

Earlier this summer, the Supreme Court ruled against a government agency that had barred a transgender employee from using the womens bathroom  its first ruling involving the rights of sexual minorities in the workplace, according to NHK.

Much of Japan has long held conservative views toward LGBTQ issues  and while polls in recent years have suggested attitudes are shifting, activists say discrimination is still rife. For instance, Japan is the only Group of Seven (G7) nation with no legal protection for same-sex unions.

This spring the government came under increasing pressure to pass a law promoting understanding of the LGBTQ community, ahead of hosting the G7 leaders summit in May  but wrangling over the bill meant it was only submitted to parliament the day before the summit began.

In the end, the bill that passed was a watered-down version of what activists had hoped for, with no human rights guarantees provided  and even wording that may tacitly encourage some forms of discrimination, critics say.

CNNs Chris Lau contributed to this report.

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Visitors to the Japan Mobility Show will get a vision of the future of rescue in the disaster-prone country, including exoskeletons (Kazuhiro NOGI)

With a drone camera, a survivor is spotted in the rubble. A robot on tracks brings him water while rescuers in exoskeletons clear an escape route for an autonomous stretcher to take her to safety.

This is the futuristic vision on display at the Japan Mobility Show, aiming to exhibit how technology can help and sometimes replace humans in a country short of workers and no stranger to disasters.

But so as not to alarm people, the imaginary tragedy is unleashed by Godzilla, who has unleashed catastrophe in Japanese disaster films since the 1950s.

In Japan nearly 30 percent of the country's population is aged 65 and over.

"Because of the decline of the population there are fewer and fewer people available for dangerous tasks," said Tomoyuki Izu, founder of Attraclab, a local start-up specialising in autonomous mobility.

"My idea is to help people such as firefighters with my machines," Izu, 61, told AFP.

It was Attraclab that co-developed the small delivery robot squeezing through the cardboard rubble at the Japan Mobility Show and designed the remote-control stretcher on wheels or tracks.

For now the Japanese government favours "traditional equipment" for relief efforts, he said at the event, which opens to the public this weekend.

But Izu believes there will be a market for more advanced technology in the future.

"There's a lots of anime with humanoid robots in Japan, and therefore people love them. But these kinds of autonomous vehicles are still very strange for them," he said.

Since 2016, Japan's Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) has been developing Kaleido, a robust humanoid robot capable of delicately lifting and moving injured people.

- 'Shortage of labour' -

"In the future this robot will be able to save people, or go to dangerous zones, like fires," said Itsuki Goda from the robotics division of KHI.

He conceded, though, that the machine needs more development on its scanning capabilities to get through difficult terrain.

"We need more years of development if we want to use it in real situations, where conditions are always different," he told AFP.

Kaleido's current load capacity of 60 kilograms (132 pounds) will be increased very soon with a new prototype, promised Goda.

Price is also an issue.

Right now this robot is "maybe 10 times more expensive than a human, but if we produce 10,000 of them per year, the price will go down rapidly", Goda added.

Since the Fukushima nuclear disaster in 2011, another niche segment has exploded: robots to clear up disaster areas that are difficult or dangerous to access.

Engineering firm Sugino Machine presented a powerful but small robotic arm rigged on crawlers that can work in areas that emergency workers cannot go.

The machine was built in 2018 for a nationally run atomic research agency, as Japan continues the work to decommission the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

"This can be used for initial damage assessment or to remove debris or to remove heavy items that people cannot lift," Akira Inujima from Sugino Machine told AFP.

Various tools can be attached to its arm, such as image, temperature or radioactivity sensors, or a high-pressure water lance.

"We have a shortage of labour. It is difficult to go all robot. But we can offer solutions to help people's work," he said.

"After Fukushima, we have been able to continue technological development because there has been project after project (heavily supported by the government), like removing debris, that needs our work," Inujima said.

"It's important to continue this work and not make this fade away."

etb-hih/stu/dan
Electronic messages sent by a leading figure in Scotland's fight against Covid have been deleted, according to a newspaper report.

The Times says national clinical director Jason Leitch's deleted his messages every day during the pandemic.

It means the messages cannot be handed to the UK or Scottish inquiries into how Covid was handled.

Prof Leitch, who was a high-profile figure during the pandemic, has been contacted for comment.

The Scottish government said it had been asked by the UK Covid-19 inquiry to provide all material related to decision making.

A spokesperson said: "It is not the culture within Scottish government to use WhatsApp for decision making - our records management policy states clearly that government decisions should be recorded in the official record.

"The UK inquiry has that material from the official record."

The spokesperson said the inquiry had requested WhatsApp messages relating to logistics and day-to-day communication, which the Scottish government would provide.

"However, given the level of personal information contained within, we need a legal basis to do so, for example in the form of a section 21 order," they added.

The allegations in the Times came shortly after the Scottish government was accused of not handing over WhatsApp messages to the UK Covid inquiry.

Jamie Dawson KC, the counsel to the inquiry, said it was "surprising" that so many messages from politicians and officials had been deleted.

Mr Dawson believes that WhatsApp and other messaging systems appear to have been used to send messages relating to and surrounding key decisions by some members of the Scottish government, the "majority of the messages have not been retained by witnesses".

This embedded content is not available in your region.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said he took Mr Dawson's comments "very seriously" and would investigate.

He also pledged that "all relevant information" of any type will be handed over.

However, Scottish Labour have called for an investigation into a potential breach of the Ministerial Code by Mr Yousaf over comments made at First Minister's Questions in June.

At the session, the first minister said the Scottish government had a "long-standing policy on retention" of documents and written correspondence including email and social media messages.

Deputy Leader Jackie Baillie wrote to Mr Yousaf saying the allegations over WhatApp message deletions suggest that the first minister's statement was not accurate and he may have misled parliament.

Ms Baillie also called for a guarantee that findings of an investigation into Prof Leitch's compliance with a "do not destroy" order are made public.

The Scottish Conservatives said that ministers must "come clean" over whether they deleted messages relevant to the UK Covid Inquiry.

Scottish Conservative chief whip Alexander Burnett MSP, claimed there was a "rotten culture of secrecy" within the Scottish government.

He added: "There are grieving families at the heart of this, who deserve to know if and why crucial messages were deleted, because that would undoubtedly hinder the work of the inquiry."

Jamie Dawson KC said it was "surprising" that so many messages from politicians were deleted

The UK Covid inquiry is investigating the UK's response to and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a Scottish inquiry also now under way that is specifically looking at decisions taken by the Scottish government.

The Scottish Covid inquiry issued orders last year telling participants not to destroy electronic messages.

Former SNP health secretary, Alex Neil, has called for clarity on the use of WhatsApp within government

He told BBC Scotland that many government ministers "don't fully understand the rules".

Mr Neil, who was in the role from 2012 to 2014, said Mr Yousaf should ask the information commissioner to ensure that ministers are either prevented from using the app, or have to copy in their private office for government business.

And defending the national clinical director, Mr Neil added: "I don't think Jason Leitch should be hung out to dry for what's a systemic fault in the way the Scottish government's been run."

Meanwhile, Margaret Waterton from the Scottish Covid Bereaved Group told BBC Scotland's The Nine it was "incredulous" that potentially important WhatsApp message had been deleted.

Speaking before the news about Prof Leitch, she said she was "devastated" by reports that messages had been deleted.

"For the Scottish government to say they have deleted messages, they have not made notes at the most crucial of times when having sat in a meeting with the previous deputy first minister, alongside some of my Scottish Covid Bereaved colleagues and our legal representative - Mr Swinney may not have made notes but the civil servants surrounding him certainly did," she said.

"It is beyond belief that in the most crucial of times there would be no note taking. I'm devastated by it.

"We were promised a robust inquiry, absolutely leaving no stone unturned."

She added: "We want justice, we want truth and we want accountability - and in order to achieve those things we must have this information brought forward so the inquiry can be as robust as possible."

Analysis box by David Wallace Lockhart, BBC Scotland political correspondent

A lawyer for the UK-wide Covid inquiry has said it was "surprising" that so many Scottish government WhatsApp messages from the period of the pandemic appear to no longer exist.

And now The Times is reporting that Prof Jason Leitch was one of the officials who deleted such messages.

Prof Leitch became something of a household name during the pandemic. He was a regular figure by Nicola Sturgeon's side at Covid briefings, explaining the science behind decisions.

He was widely praised for his communication skills. But, according to The Times, some of his own electronic communications were deleted daily.

Scottish government insiders are keen to stress that decisions were not made over WhatsApp.

There may have been discussions over the app, but they say that would then have to be formalised through official government channels.

But if some of these messages no longer exist, then that's not something any Covid inquiry will be able to judge for itself.
FILE - This photo shows the Stellantis sign outside the Chrysler Technology Center in Auburn Hills, Mich, on Jan. 19, 2021. Stellantis plans to invest about 1.5 billion euros, or about $1.6 billion, in Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, the companies said late Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

BANGKOK (AP)  Stellantis plans to invest about 1.5 billion euros, or about $1.6 billion, in Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, the companies said late Wednesday.

The European-based maker of Jeep and Ram and Leapmotor said in a joint statement that they have formed a strategic partnership and joint venture that aims to expand the Chinese EV makers sales both inside and outside of China.

Stellantis said it expects to benefit from Leapmotors tech-first EV ecosystem in China to meet its own targets for shifting to electric vehicles.

The investment will give Stellantis an approximately 20% stake in Leapmotor. The companies said the 51% Stellantis-led joint venture will have exclusive rights to export and sell Leapmotors vehicles outside China.

Leapmotor has focused on the mid- to high-end of the EV market in China, selling 111,000 electric vehicles in 2022. So far it has introduced three EV models, the BEV T03, the SUV C11 and the C01 sedan.

Hangzhou, China-based Leapmotor's Hong Kong traded shares fell 9.2% on Thursday.

Stellantis N.V. is a multinational automaker formed from the merger of the ItalianAmerican conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French PSA Group. The company is headquartered in Amsterdam.
Then-state Sen. Jeff Jackson and his family greet guests at Lenny Boy Brewing Co. in Charlotte on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022. (Khadejeh Nikouyeh/knikouyeh@charlotteobserver.com)

A second member of North Carolinas congressional delegation is leaving Washington to run for state attorney general.

Rep. Jeff Jackson, a Democrat from Charlotte, announced his candidacy for attorney general on Thursday, the day after the states legislators approved a new congressional map that favors Republicans in his district.

He told McClatchy he sees the job as a chance to fight for families and that he is uniquely qualified as a former prosecutor and veteran.

Ive been a prosecutor in a courtroom and a soldier in Afghanistan, Jackson told McClatchy. Im a husband and a father. And Im the last person corrupt politicians want to see as Attorney General because I dont care about what party theyre in.

Its got nothing to do with parties. Its about doing whats right.

The attorney general serves as the states top law enforcement official and oversees the Department of Justice.

Under state law, the attorney general represents state officials and entities in legal matters, can provide legal opinions to the governor, state lawmakers or public officials when asked, can consult or advise judicial officials as allowed and can intervene in court proceedings on both the state and federal level. The attorney general also handles criminal appeals from state trial courts.

Jackson said hes ready to fight organized crime targeting residents bank accounts, fentanyl targeting kids, and corporations that break the rules with price-gouging or pollute North Carolinas water.

Bishop vs. Jackson

Jacksons fellow House member, Rep. Dan Bishop, a Republican from Charlotte who moved to Waxhaw, is also seeking the seat.

The two are already considered the likely front-runners in the race and will face off against one another in the general election, if they win their primaries.

Jackson, a 41-year-old freshman, has made a name for himself in Congress with his ability to reach constituents  and a larger audience of 2.4 million followers  through TikTok, taking his audience through the goings-on in Congress in easily digestible soundbites.

Referring to Jacksons use of TikTok and that apps Chinese ownership, Bishop issued a statement Thursday on X, formerly Twitter, saying he Welcomes Chinese Social Media Star to AGs Race.

Bishop then tweeted a statement made to look like it came from Jacksons campaign and was written in Chinese, with a translation saying Jackson is helping China spy on North Carolina.

Bishop, a 59-year-old Republican, is also an outspoken member of North Carolinas delegation, though on the opposite end of the spectrum. Though Bishop has a social media presence, he tends to rely on conservative media outlets to get out his views. He is a member of the far-right Freedom Caucus, and several of his colleagues in that group quickly tweeted their support of Bishop when he announced his new campaign.

Jackson may have one built-in advantage over Bishop, though. A Republican hasnt been elected attorney general since the late 1800s  though Josh Stein, the states current attorney general who is running for governor, only won his 2020 election against Forsyth County District Attorney Jim ONeill with 50.1% of the vote. Stein, who has been attorney general since 2017, is running for governor.

On Wednesday, the Democratic Attorneys General Association announced it has reserved $4 million in television advertising, earmarked for the race, and said the organization is committed to protecting the seat.

Jacksons career, and new maps

Jackson serves in the Army National Guard. He enlisted after the 9/11 attacks and trained at Fort Liberty, formerly known as Fort Bragg, before being deployed to Afghanistan.

He then went to law school and became an assistant district attorney in Gaston County, where he tried more than 100 cases.

In 2014, he was elected to the North Carolina Senate, where he served until coming to Congress.

Jacksons announcement comes after months of rumors that he would walk away from his congressional seat. But state lawmakers didnt leave Jackson much choice.

Last week, the state Senate published two potential maps of North Carolinas newly redrawn congressional districts that both left Jackson without a viable path to win.

And he did what he always does: took to social media.

New congressional maps for NC just dropped, Jackson wrote on X. A brutal gerrymander. Just being honest: Im probably toast in Congress.

Battle between Republicans

Jackson first came to Congress after an intraparty fight between two Republicans.

Many believed that in the 2022 elections, state lawmakers had originally drawn what became Jacksons district as a potential easy win for House Speaker Tim Moore. At the same time, lawmakers diluted the far-western 11th Congressional District of Republicans, seen by some as a message to Rep. Madison Cawthorn, a now-28-year-old firebrand Republican who had been giving them trouble.

But instead of taking their reprimand, Cawthorn took the opportunity to challenge Moore in the district believed to have been drawn for the House speaker. Moore, a 53-year-old Republican from Kings Mountain, announced he wouldnt run for Congress.

Court-appointed experts redrew the district to be favorable for a Democrat to win, and Jackson ran for the seat and won.

But Jacksons days seemed numbered after the newly Republican state Supreme Court made clear it would not stand in the way of the legislature drawing lines as it saw fit.

Lawmakers have now approved a congressional map, which is likely to unseat several Democrats. Republicans turned Jacksons district into a favorable one for Moore.

Moore has not yet announced whether hell seek to succeed Jackson, but says he will not run again for House speaker or for reelection to the state House, and is considering multiple options, including a run for Congress.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) said Thursday that fellow Democratic New York Rep. Jamaal Bowman doesnt deserve censure for falsely pulling the fire alarm before an important vote last month.

Bowman pleaded guilty Thursday to a misdemeanor for the fire alarm incident in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Republicans have accused him of pulling the alarm to sabotage the vote, with some calling for punitive action.

Not in my view, Jeffries responded at a press conference when asked whether Bowman should be censured, accusing Republicans of hypocrisy.

[M]any of these lawmakers on the other side of the aisle who had their hair on fire about what appears to have been an inadvertent action taken by Congressman Bowman, to which he is now being held accountable for, within the criminal justice system, regularly defend violent individuals who overran the Capitol on Jan. 6, as part of an effort to halt a peaceful transfer of power, he said.

And these violent individuals brutally beat and seriously injured 140 police officers, on the day of the insurrection, Jeffries continued. And many of them, who are having a panic attack, publicly, about Jamaal Bowman have actually defended or refused to comment on the violent mob on Jan. 6.

Under an agreement with prosecutors, Bowman will pay a $1,000 fine and write an apology to the Capitol Police. The charge will be withdrawn in three months at a court hearing set for Jan. 29.

I really regret that this caused so much confusion and that people had to evacuate, and I just caused a disturbance. I hate that. Its pretty embarrassing, Bowman told reporters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The owner of the kiosk said he felt there was "no reason" the cafe couldn't continue operating.

A seafront cafe in Jersey is set to close on Sunday after more than seven years trading at La Pulente slipway.

Owner of the HideOut cafe, Karl Sutton, said the closure was "devastating".

It follows a long-running dispute over lease agreements with the Parish of St Brelade which owns the land at the end of the beach.

The Constable of St Brelade, Mike Jackson, said the food kiosk's right to operate in its current position was only ever temporary.

Mr Jackson said: "The planning permission for it existing on that site has run out, in fact it ran out on 24 June so effectively they're squatting on the site."

Constable of St Brelade Mike Jackson said The HideOut was only meant to operate until the Nude Dunes restaurant (pictured above) was open.

In a statement on social media, Mr Sutton said: "We have done everything we can to keep the business alive.

"We have considered another David and Goliath battle with our elected officials but do not want to do so at a cost to our parishioners.

"With the end of the line in relative sight and no solutions forthcoming from the parish, we have no option but to cease trading."

Follow BBC Jersey on Twitter and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.
 Flash

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Noting that China and the United States, as the world's two largest economies, account for more than a third of the global economy and nearly a quarter of the world's population, and bilateral trade accounts for about a fifth of the global total, Xi said the interests of both sides are closely intertwined.

Xi said that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more.

China's policy toward the United States is consistent, which is mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Xi said, adding that China will continue to work in this direction and hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction.

Xi recalled his experience of visiting California and introduced China's green transition and relevant local development, pointing out that the sound development of China-U.S. relations requires pooling the strength of all sides.

The foundation of China-U.S. relations lies among the people, the hope is in the people, the future lies in the youth, and the vitality lies in sub-national areas, Xi said.

Xi noted that he highly values and supports exchanges across various sectors and sub-national cooperation between China and the United States, and expressed the hope that Newsom's visit will enhance mutual understanding and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the sound and steady development of China-U.S. relations.

China and the United States enjoy great potential for cooperation in the fields of promoting green development and addressing climate change. The two sides should strengthen cooperation in this aspect and make it a new highlight in the development of China-U.S. ties, said Xi.

Newsom said that over the past few decades, China has made remarkable achievements in development, especially in the field of new energy in recent years.

No other bilateral relationship is more important than the one between the United States and China, and the U.S.-China relationship is vital to the future of the United States and bears on the well-being of its people, Newsom said.

Newsom said he is willing to push California to strengthen exchanges with China and seek closer cooperation in fields such as climate change and new energy. California is willing to be China's long-term, stable and strong partner, he added.

Senior Chinese official Wang Yi was present at the meeting.
JERUSALEM, Israel - American Jews studying in Israel say they are outraged by what they see as a rise of antisemitism back home in the United States following the worst terrorist attack in the history of the Jewish state.

Gideon Rone, a student from Baltimore, Maryland relayed his frustration over anti-Semitism that is being displayed across the United States as people protest in support of Hamas amid the war between Israel and the terrorist group.

"1400 people murdered by terrorists in cold blood in the most gruesome of ways that we haven't seen in 75 years. You don't see the same type of support because no other reason than we're Jewish," Rone said.

Oran Goodman, another student from Englewood, New Jersey expressed his concerns and confusion as to why people would tear down the posters of hostages that were taken by Hamas.

GRANDSON OF HOLOCAUST SURVIVORS BLAMES COLLEGES AFTER STUDENTS PROTEST AT VIGIL FOR SLAIN ISRAELIS

"People have been going around tearing down pictures of hostages. Why? Why would you ever tear down a picture of a hostage?" Goodman asked.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"We weren't even given proper time to grieve," Rone explained. "Protests started the next day in America, anti-Israel. And, you know, we all know people who died. Two of my friends are being held captive in Gaza and all I could see was people saying how I was wrong, how I was the reason living here. I was the reason that my friends are being held captive."

Goodman says he is having second thoughts about attending NYU next year. Asked if he felt safe about going to the university, he was not sure. "'I'm still struggling with that. Part of me feels that somebody needs to be there because if nobody's there, then who's the only voice?" Goodman explained.

TENSIONS LEAD TO UNREST AT PRO-PALESTINIAN RALLIES ACROSS US CITIES

A pro-Palestinian protestor dressed in militant battle gear in Times Square on October 6, 2023.

Rone says he feels safer in Israel than he would back home. "I'm much more scared for them and my family in America than I am for my well-being here."



Despite being an American citizen, Beth Levin from the Bronx says she feels a closer affinity to Israel right now, "In America you can be sent to Afghanistan  and can be fighting in a different country like you're not fighting necessarily for your homeland. In Israel, we're just fighting to exist."

Levin says she is outraged by the anti-Israeli protests back home.

JEWISH STUDENTS AT GEORGETOWN LAW FEAR VIOLENCE AMID HEATED RHETORIC FROM CLASSMATES AND ANTI-ISRAELI GROUPS

A fire rages after Hamas fires rockets in Sderot, Israel on October 10, 2023.

"Friends I even know who aren't Jewish. They started posting things like Free Palestine. They didn't even understand it then. It just like-- it made me realize how much I want to stay in Israel and how this is my country. They say that they're for human rights. Just not when it comes to Jewish rights," she said.



Another student Joseph Savenor is shocked at what is happening, "Seeing all this hatred, antisemitism is like, why are we going back?"

Asked if he felt people should be more sympathetic to what happened in Israel, he told Fox News, "I don't understand like-- it's very obvious that, like, they're killing our babies. Like, what can be more clear?"

CORNELL PROFESSOR WHO WAS 'EXHILARATED' AFTER HAMAS ATTACK ISSUES APOLOGY FOR 'REPREHENSIBLE' REMARKS

Protesters hold banners with hostages' pictures, Israel's and US' flags during a demonstration in support of Israel on Sant Jaume square in Barcelona on October 15, 2023.

About half the girls in Beth Levins school in Jerusalem left after the massacre. Beth says she never considered leaving. Nor did any of the other Americans we spoke with. "I never realized how much I want to be here for Israel, because Israel is the place of the Jews. It's my home. I can't go anywhere else." Levin said.

"What is happening in our world? Why is our world upside down?" Goodman asked. "I feel unsafe as an American Jew now. I never felt unsafe as an American Jew," he said.

"All across the world, all we see is division, and that's not what we need," Rone stated.

These students hope by sharing their stories - there will be more support for the Jewish people worldwide.





Original article source: Jewish American students outraged by rising antisemitism in US amid Hamas terror attacks on Israel
President Joe Biden teased a reporter after he asked a long-winded question and then requested follow-up queries  one of which went on for a bit. (Watch the video below.)

You want to make a speech? Biden cracked to Joey Garrison of USA Today.

Biden was holding a press conference with Australian PM Anthony Albanese at the White House when Garrison brought up the war in the Middle East. But he took his time in doing it.

Mr. President, I want to ask about the conflict  the war in the Middle East. Twenty-four U.S. troops have been injured during 10 drone or rocket attacks on bases in Iraq and three in Syria over the past week. Youve told Iran to quote, Be careful, as your administration tries to prevent the Israeli-Hamas war from expanding into a larger Middle East conflict. But should Americans be worried that the war already is escalating? And after you answer that question, Id like one more follow-up, please.

A smiling Biden said, About one or two more, huh?

Two or three, Garrison said to laughter.

Biden proceeded to answer Garrisons initial question. He said the U.S. has had troops in the region since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and warned Iran not to move against U.S. forces or face the consequences. It has nothing to do with Israel, he said.

Well, let me  let me ask my follow-up here. I want to discuss  oh, here we go  yeah, your conversations with Prime Minister Netanyahu, who, obviously, youve known for decades, and you had a very emotional trip there last week to Israel, Garrison said. Have you sought assurances from him that he will hold off on a ground invasion into Gaza until the safe relief  release of the hostages can be assured? And, of course, those include 10 unaccounted-for Americans.

No, the president answered. What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, but I did not demand it. I pointed out to him: If its real, it should be done. Thank you.

Garrison wasnt done, though. But arent these hostages in jeopardy if there is a ground invasion? he asked.

You want to make a speech? Biden joked. Now, look, obviously, theyre in jeopardy. The question is whether or not theres any way of getting them out. If we can get them out, we should get them out.

Fast-forward to 16:25 for the exchange:

Some of Bidens responses to reporters are far lessfriendly, especially when theyre from Fox News.

Related...
Political stability and the return of Stormont are needed to attract major investors to Northern Ireland, US trade envoy Joe Kennedy III has said.

Mr Kennedy is leading a major trade delegation currently visiting Northern Ireland.

Speaking in Londonderry, the United States Special Envoy said big investment requires stable government.

"Of course it would be better if there were a government up and running," Mr Kennedy said.

He added: "If you are talking about making investments in the billions of dollars you need to have that political stability.

"We hope that we come to a point quickly that we can get that political stability, it's been a message we have heard a number of times from members of our delegation."

The US trade envoy Joe Kennedy (left) is meeting local business leaders and politicians including Alex Maskey (right)

On Wednesday night, party leaders met delegates during a dinner at Stormont.

Earlier this year, US President Joe Biden promised the delegation when he visited Northern Ireland.

He said "scores" of US firms wanted to come to Northern Ireland; some already employing over 30,000 people.

The delegation is a blend of US companies already present in Northern Ireland and potential investors.

Some new investment has been announced during the group's visit this week and on Tuesday, the New York State pension fund's comptroller, Tom DiNapolis, said it is to invest up to $50m (41m) in Northern Ireland businesses.

'Sense of urgency'

Stormont has been without a functioning executive for 20 months as the DUP protests against post-Brexit trade arrangements for Northern Ireland.

In recent weeks both the Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris and DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson have hinted at progress being made in talks about Stormont's return, however, the impasse continues.

Sir Jeffrey said on Thursday there was still a "distance to travel" before discussions with the government would conclude.

He said he was not embarrassed that the trade visit was happening without a government at Stormont.

"Every process of dialogue reaches a moment where you've taken the talking as far as you can and decisions are needed - I think there is still room to move, there is still a distance to travel to get the outcome we need but we are moving in the right direction.

"I can't predict if we will get the solution that we need but I will work night and day to get it."

On Wednesday, Mr Heaton-Harris repeated that he believed talks with the DUP are in the "final stages".

Meanwhile the tanaiste (Irish deputy PM) and foreign affairs minister Micheal Martin said unionists had "missed an opportunity" to claim the Windsor Framework as a win.

The Windsor Framework, which was agreed by the EU and UK in February, is the revised post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland.

"The Windsor agreement was a major milestone. Actually unionism should have claimed victory. Much of what they campaigned for the vast majority of that was delivered within it." Mr Martin told BBC News NI's The View.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Earlier on Thursday, Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) leader Doug Beattie said it is "absolutely embarrassing" that the major trade delegation is visiting Northern Ireland during Stormont's suspension.

Mr Beattie was speaking after a business breakfast involving MLAs and the US trade envoy.

Speaking after the business breakfast on Thursday, Mr Beattie said US businesses had raised the issue of political stability with him.

"They did ask when do we get to the stage of politicians being irrelevant? It is embarrassing that we don't have a government."

Sinn Fein vice-president Michelle O'Neill said she felt there was a "sense of urgency" following this week's events.

"The mood music is positive but we need to build on that," she said.

Asked if there was more optimism or pessimism about the chances of Stormont, Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said her optimism was changing on an "hourly basis".

Social Democratic and Labour Party leader Colum Eastwood said "common sense should say this is the time to go back in", and that he was optimistic about the future.
CHICAGO - A man was beaten to death near a gas station in Englewood Wednesday afternoon.

At about 3:11 p.m., a male victim, John Doe, was riding a bike in the 1200 block of West 59th Street near a gas station when he was beaten to death, activist Andrew Holmes said.

The victim was taken to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

No offenders are in custody and area detectives are investigating.

Editor's note: Originally, it was believed the victim was shot, but it was determined no gunshots were fired.
Hes served in leadership as vice chair of the Republican Conference, but with just four House terms under his belt, Rep. Mike Johnson remains little-known within Washington.

One thing is clear, however. Johnson is a social conservatives social conservative  the most culturally conservative lawmaker to ascend to the speakership in decades, if not longer.

He has a faith-driven outlook toward governance and longstanding ties to the evangelical activist group Family Research Council, which could one day prove discomfiting to members from swing districts or of a more secular orientation.

His first brush with national prominence came in April 2015, when Johnson, then a Louisiana state legislator, proposed a bill called the Louisiana Marriage and Conscience Act that would have prevented adverse treatment by the State of any person or entity on the basis of the views they may hold with regard to marriage. Critics called it legalized discrimination against married gay couples, and the bill failed, but the media attention got him on the radar of the influential FRC and its president, fellow Louisiana native Tony Perkins.

Perkins, who hosts a national radio show called Washington Watch, began tapping Johnson to guest host. Johnson, a constitutional lawyer, appeared to be a natural  by December 2015, local Shreveport, La. ABC affiliate KTBS said he may have a budding second career on the airwaves.

The FRC and Perkins are political lightning rods among non-evangelicals  some of Perkins stances, like his argument that natural disasters are divine punishments for homosexuality, dont sit well with broad swaths of the electorate. But Johnsons political and religious beliefs dovetail with Perkins views. In a 2004 op-ed, Johnson argued that homosexual relationships are inherently unnatural ... society cannot give its stamp of approval to such a dangerous lifestyle.

When he ran for Congress in 2016, Johnson placed his faith at the center of his campaign, telling the Louisiana Baptist Message, I am a Christian, a husband, a father, a life-long conservative, constitutional law attorney and a small business owner in that order.

His connection with Perkins  and his interest in evangelical radio as a political tool  continued after he was elected to the House in 2016. As a first-term lawmaker, Johnson announced his bid to lead the Republican Study Committee, a conservative caucus that currently counts 156, on Washington Watch with Perkins. He won the election.

Its never been more important for conservatives to stand up and give voice  to be winsome witnesses  to [conservative] principles, Johnson told Perkins in 2018 during his announcement.

Johnson has been a guest on Washington Watch at other times in recent years as well.

In the midst of the 15 ballots that it took to elect Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) speaker in January, Johnson recounted on an FRC show that he got on his knees on the House floor and prayed with a group of members, repent[ing] to the Lord for our individual transgressions and those collectively as a legislative body.

Johnson used the skills he sharpened on talk radio and in televised FRC interviews to start a weekly podcast in 2022 with his wife, called Truth be Told with Mike and Kelly Johnson.

During the first episode in March 2022, entitled Can America be Saved? Johnson says that well review current events through the lens of eternal truth, and noted that in each podcast they intended to incorporate a themed scripture because the word of God is, of course, the ultimate source of all truth. Guests have included Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Charlie Kirk and Jordan Peterson.

On occasion, Kelly Johnson will tee up her husband for an answer. Why are we the freest, most powerful, most successful, most benevolent nation in the history of the world, and why does every other nation on the planet look to us for leadership and even expect it of us? she asks in one episode. Her husband responds explaining that America is the only country in the world founded upon a creed, or a religious statement of faith.

The podcasts bent is similar to whats on evangelical Christian radio, with a slightly more political angle. While Johnsons deep faith may be a distinguishing feature  especially compared to past GOP speakers  he is fairly ideologically representative of the Republican House majority. His DW-nominate score, a system which tracks and maps the ideology of Congress based on their voting record, puts Johnson at more conservative than 63 percent of House Republicans.

But Johnson has a strict insistence on his conservative evangelical values  hes posted on X (formerly Twitter), [In Louisiana], perform an abortion and get imprisoned at hard labor for 1-10 yrs & fined $10K-$100K and argued that if abortion hadnt been legal for decades, there would be more able-bodied workers in the economy, we wouldnt be going upside down and toppling over like this [on social security, Medicare and Medicaid]. Those stances wont endear him to the Democrats with whom hell now have to negotiate, nor will his vigorous attempts to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

After three weeks of chaos and uncertainty, Republicans were able to compromise on Johnson. Now, the question is whether he can keep them together while also negotiating with Democrats. Its a high wire act that will make it harder for Johnson to carve out time to hop on the mic and record his podcast, but given that listeners havent gotten a new episode since Oct. 8, were at least due to hear his broadcasted thoughts on how he got here soon enough.
The interim superintendent of the Johnston Community School District is now the district's next permanent superintendent.

The district on Wednesday in a news release named Nikki Roorda as the new superintendent. Roorda will start Nov. 1 and is expected to be formally approved by the Johnston Community School District Board of Education on Nov. 6.

Roorda took on the interim position in June after the previous superintendent, Laura Kacer, resigned in February.

Roorda has worked for the district since August 2019, when she started as the executive director of teaching and learning. She became an associate superintendent in July 2021.

She previously worked as the regional director for the Heartland Area Education Agency, was a K-12 literacy coordinator in Ankeny and has classroom teaching experience in Ankeny, West Des Moines and Montezuma, as well as Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

"As many of you know, it has been a longtime goal and dream of mine to be a superintendent. I am so proud of the work we've done here together these past four years, and we've only just begun," Roorda said in the district's news release on Wednesday.

Roorda was one of two finalists who interviewed on Oct. 24 with groups of students, parents, teachers and community members, according to the news release. The Johnston School Board worked with Grundmeyer Leader Services to conduct a search for candidates.

School board president Alicia Clevenger said in the news release, "We are confident that (Roorda's) expertise and dedication will propel the district to new heights in both educational excellence, as well as in developing a culture here where everyone feels welcome, valued and heard.

More: Johnston has parent-teacher conferences on Election Day. Can teachers, parents still vote?

Phillip Sitter covers suburban growth and development for the Des Moines Register. Phillip can be reached via email at psitter@gannett.com. He is on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @pslifeisabeauty.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Johnston school district names Nikki Roorda as new superintendent
The woman who accused Jonathan Majors of attacking her in the back of a chauffeured car has surrendered to the New York police to face misdemeanor charges for her role in the March domestic dispute.

Grace Jabbari, a 30-year-old choreographer who once dated the Marvel star, arrived at a Manhattan police precinct on Wednesday evening to receive a desk appearance ticket on two misdemeanor charges. Jabbaris attorney and director of the Incarcerated Gender Violence Survivors Initiative, Ross Kramer, confirmed to The Daily Beast that his client his arrested on two misdemeanor charges on Wednesday.

Grace is super strong, Kramer said. We are disappointed when survivors are treated like perpetrators.

The charges stem from a counterclaim Majors filed with the NYPD in June, in which he alleged that he was the true victim of the late-night March 25 squabble. The New York Times and Insider reported in June that authorities had evidence to suggest Jabbari attacked Majors. The Messenger first reported her NYPD appearance earlier this week.

But while the desk ticket technically requires Jabbari to report to court at a later date, the Manhattan District Attorneys Office has already made it clear that it does not plan to prosecute.

The Manhattan District Attorneys Office has officially declined to prosecute the case against Grace Jabbari because it lacks prosecutorial merit. The matter is now closed and sealed, a spokesperon told The Daily Beast on Thursday.

In a Oct. 13 motion, prosecutors also added that a thorough investigation was conducted into the facts of this case and, in doing so, the People have chosen to prosecute Jonathan Majors.

Jonathan Majors Headed to Trial After Judge Refuses to Dismiss Case

Prosecutors allege that during the couples car ride home at around 12:40 a.m., Jabbari tried to grab Majors phone after she viewed a text that read, wish I was kissing you right now. In response, Majors grabbed her arm and placed it behind her body before he used his right hand to twist her arm and finger, a criminal complaint says. Then, Majors allegedly hit his ex across her arm and caused a laceration before he pushed her with both hands.

During a brief Wednesday hearing, a New York judge struck down a defense motion to dismiss all charges against Majors, stating that the case has not violated the Speedy Trial Act and has enough evidence to go to trial. The trial is now set to begin on Nov. 26. Majors faces several misdemeanor assault and harassment charges and, if convicted, could spend up to a year in jail.

After Majors arrest, Rolling Stone published a bombshell report detailing the Lovecraft Country actors alleged abusive behavior toward crew members, at least two former romantic partners, and his Yale School of Drama classmates. His career briefly took a nose dive after the arrest and his management and PR firm fired him.

To combat the bad press, Majors defense team has gone to great lengths to prove his innocence. Defense lawyer Priya Chaudhry previously released surveillance video of Jabbari allegedly at a club after the assault. She also released text messages that allegedly provided context about the former relationship.

In Majors counter-claim, he also alleged that Jabbari was the aggressor that evening and stole his vintage Rolex. He added that she later injured herself alone in his apartment. Chaudhry has also argued that Majors is the true victim of the assault, stating that cops taunted the actor when they showed up at the scene. (Chaudhry has not provided any further details into the officer-related incident, and the district attorneys office has previously denied comment.)

None of the white officers present investigated the assault of Mr. Majors. Worse, the District Attorney has not indicated any intention to pursue charges against the woman or even investigate the truth, Chaudhry said in a June statement. This glaring double standard between the treatment of Jonathan Majors, a Black man weighing 200 lbs, and his accuser, highlights the racial bias that permeates the criminal justice system.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

Get the Daily Beast's biggest scoops and scandals delivered right to your inbox. Sign up now.

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Jonathan Majors  ex-girlfriend was arrested Wednesday in connection with the March domestic dispute that led to assault charges against the actor, the New York Police Department said. But the Manhattan District Attorneys Office has stated that it has no plans to prosecute her.

Grace Jabbari, a 30-year-old dancer with several film credits, was taken into custody at Manhattans 10th Precinct on charges of assault and criminal mischief in relation to the March incident, her attorney, Ross Kramer, confirmed to HuffPost. Majors was arrested in the aftermath of that encounter and has pleaded not guilty to multiple counts of assault and harassment.

Jonathan Majors is seen in court during a hearing for his assault case on June 20 in New York.

Jonathan Majors is seen in court during a hearing for his assault case on June 20 in New York.

According to prosecutors, Majors and Jabbari were in the back of a car on the night of March 25 when Jabbari allegedly caught Majors receiving a romantic message from another woman.

Jabbari then took Majors phone and was injured after the actor grabbed her, twisted her right forearm and struck her in the ear to retrieve his phone, prosecutors alleged. They added that Majors also picked up Jabbari and threw her back into the car after she got out.

Majors is scheduled to face trial in November on charges of intentional assault, reckless assault and aggravated harassment. Priya Chaudhry, a lawyer for Majors, has vehemently argued that the Marvel star is innocent and that Jabbari was the aggressor. Chaudhry declined to comment to HuffPost on Thursday.

In a 115-page filing released this week, prosecutors said they had no intentions of prosecuting Jabbari over the incident.

On September 8, 2023, and September 12, 2023, the prosecution informed the NYPD that the People would decline to prosecute any charges brought by the NYPD against Ms. Jabbari related to the belated allegations made by defendant, they said.

In a statement, Kramer said prosecutors again confirmed this to him before she surrendered to police Wednesday. He added that the case against Jabbari lacked prosecutorial merit and is now closed.

Before we walked into the police precinct, the DAs Office made clear that they would not be charging Ms. Jabbari with any offense, he wrote.

Kramer  who is also the director of the Incarcerated Gender Violence Survivors Initiative, which aims to assist domestic violence survivors in the criminal justice system  said he and his client were disappointed to see survivors treated like perpetrators.

It was unfortunate and re-traumatizing that a survivor of intimate partner violence was forced to endure an arrest, but Ms. Jabbari is an extremely strong and resilient person who is determined to move forward, Kramer said.

We are grateful that the Manhattan DAs Office acted quickly to end this matter. Now Grace can move forward without having to carry the weight of baseless accusations against her.

Dustin Pusch, a civil attorney for Majors, criticized the DAs office for saying it wouldnt prosecute Jabbari, claiming that the NYPD determined probable cause after a thorough and lengthy investigation.

Instead of acting on the findings from law enforcement, the District Attorneys office unilaterally and without explanation has decided not to prosecute Ms. Jabbari for her misdeeds and the documented injuries she caused Mr. Majors, Pusch told HuffPost.

He said that the DA continuing to move forward with Majors criminal case amounted to a serious injustice.

These recent revelations raise grave questions about the impartiality and transparency of the prosecutors discretion, due process, and equal protection under the law, Pusch said.

Need help? In the U.S., call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) for the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Call 1-866-331-9474 or text loveis to 22522 for the National Dating Abuse Helpline.

Related...
A judge in New York denied a motion to dismiss the Lovecraft Country actors multiple charges. Majors trial is now scheduled for Nov. 29.

A trial date has been set for Jonathan Majors .

Per The Hollywood Reporter, New York Judge Michael Gaffey denied the defenses motion to dismiss the charges facing the actor, which include misdemeanor assault and harassment. Majors trial is now scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 29.

Actor Jonathan Majors is set to go on trial Nov. 29 on charges of misdemeanor assault, aggravated harassment, attempted assault and harassment. Above, he attends a February HBCU fan screening in Atlanta for Creed III. (Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for MGM Studios)

According to The Washington Post, Majors lawyers filed the motion requesting dismissal due to evidence discrepancies and the lack of a speedy trial.

The defense also filed a motion requesting that certain evidentiary matter continue to be under seal, outside of public view, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The state did not decide on this motion, with Gaffey telling media reps in the courtroom they could submit papers in opposition to this by Nov. 6.

Majors faces four charges of misdemeanor assault, aggravated harassment, attempted assault and harassment following his arrest on March 25. At the time, the police responded to a phone call from his then-girlfriend Grace Jabbari, who alleged the actor attacked her during a dispute they had in a car service.

He has pleaded not guilty to the four charges against him.

The news comes just hours after more details emerged from the domestic violence case, with Variety reporting that prosecutors had obtained evidence from an unpublicized event in London that they believe to be relevant to the March incident. The filing also accuses Majors legal team of purposefully misrepresenting and even leaking court information in an attempt to paint a certain picture of Jabbari.

Priya Chaudhry, Majors defense attorney, has maintained the Loki actors innocence, theGrio previously reported. Chaudhry has referred to the case as a witch hunt, while also painting Jabbari as the true aggressor and a liar.

TheGrio is FREE on your TV via Apple TV, Amazon Fire, Roku and Android TV. Also, please download theGrio mobile apps today!

The post Jonathan Majors trial date set, motion to dismiss case denied appeared first on TheGrio.
Al Jazeeras Gaza bureau chief returned to air less than 24 hours after his family was killed in what the television network said was an Israeli airstrike on Wednesday.

Wael Al Dahdouh lost his wife, son, daughter, and grandson when a blast hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza where the family was taking shelter after being displaced, according to the news organization.

Al Dahdouh thanked viewers for their messages and calls following his familys tragedy. The solidarity and prayers were certainly something very important for us but we thought it was necessary to return quickly despite everything, he said.

The area is still burning, as you can see, from the raids and artillery bombardment. I saw that it was my duty, despite the pain and the bleeding wound, to return quickly and to meet you through the camera lens and social networking sites, he added.

In an on-air message on Wednesday, the Qatari-funded news network wrote that Members of the family of our colleague Wael Al Dahdouh, including his wife, son, and daughter, were martyred in an Israeli bombing.

Al Jazeera reported Al Dahdouhs grandson Adam was declared dead two hours later.

An emotional Al Dahdouh was seen in a video crying as he stood over his sons body, wrapped in a white sheet. The distraught journalist was also seen carrying the small body of his grandson through al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Gaza.

His son Mahmoud was 15 years old, and his daughter Sham was seven years old, Al Jazeera reported.

Al Jazeera anchor Abdisalam Farah announced the deaths on air, visibly struggling to keep his composure and tearing up.

Twelve members of the Al Dahdouh family were killed on Wednesday, including 9 children, a statement by the family said.

The Al Dahdouh family were displaced from Tal El Hawa to Nuseirat refugee camp, which they thought would be a safe place for them to stay, Al Jazeeras office in Ramallah told CNN.

CNN cannot independently confirm the source of the blast at the house, and Al Jazeera did not provide evidence linking it directly to an Israeli strike. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed to CNN that it carried out an airstrike in an area of Gaza where Al-Dahdouhs relatives were killed on Wednesday. The IDF said that it was targeting Hamas terrorist infrastructure.

Strikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties. Regarding this specific case, the IDF targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area, the IDF said in a statement.

Israels leadership has vowed to wipe out Hamas, the Islamist group that controls Gaza, in response to its October 7 deadly terror attacks and kidnap rampage in which 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 200 taken hostage.

Its weeks-long siege on Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis inside the enclave, now cut off from the world by a near-total blockade, say aid groups. Israeli airstrikes have decimated entire neighborhoods, leveling homes, schools, and mosques.

CNN drone footage from Monday showed the level of destruction across parts of the strip, with whole streets flattened in the al-Rimal neighborhood in Gaza City and a row of destroyed buildings known as al-Zahra towers in central Gaza.

More than 6,400 people have been killed and a further 17,000 injured in Israels sustained aerial bombardment of the crowded enclave, according to latest figures from the Hamas-controlled health authorities in Gaza published by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah.

Horrifying

Advocacy groups condemned the death of Al Dahdouhs family members on Wednesday. The International Press Institute (IPI) called it horrifying and outrageous news, in a statement. We condemn the killing of civilians and offer our deepest condolences to Wael Dahdouh.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 24 journalists have died since the start of this conflict as of Wednesday. Twenty of those killed are Palestinian, three are Israeli, and one is a Lebanese journalist, CPJ said.

The figure includes Palestinian journalist Roshdi Sarraj, according to Palestinian press agency WAFA, which said he was killed in an Israeli airstrike.

Sarraj was a fixer at French national public radio broadcaster Radio France and had been working with its correspondents since May 2021, according to Radio France.

When CNN reached out to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for comment on Sarrajs death, it said on Monday that in stark contrast to Hamas intentional attacks on Israeli men, women and children, the IDF follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm.

CNNs Mihir Melwani, Pierre Meilhan, Oliver Darcy and Sophie Jeong contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
 Flash

People conduct rescue work at destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes in the Southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 6,546, said the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza Strip on Wednesday. Meanwhile, 17,439 Palestinians were wounded in the coastal enclave, the ministry said in a statement.

Over the past two days, Israel has intensified airstrikes and artillery shelling against the Gaza Strip, said Palestinian security sources and local eyewitnesses. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said in a statement on Wednesday Israel's aerial bombardment and artillery shellings have increased three-fold compared to previous days.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Wednesday that it identified at least two Hamas "terrorists" that attempted to infiltrate Israeli territory in the area of Zikim via the sea, after Hamas armed wing Al-Qassam Brigades said its fighters had infiltrated Israel's Zikim base in Ashkelon and clashed with its forces.

On Wednesday morning, the IDF said on social media platform X that its extensive attacks on Gaza during the past day had eliminated Hamas operatives and infrastructure, including tunnel shafts, military headquarters, munitions warehouses and mortar bomb and anti-tank missile launchers.

The Israeli airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off, were triggered by a large-scale Hamas attack on Israeli military targets and towns on Oct. 7, which has so far killed at least 1,400 people in Israel.

On Wednesday, 10 Palestinians were killed in an aircraft bombardment on "the only bakery" in the al-Mughazi refugee camp in central Gaza, which also destroyed several surrounding houses, said Salama Maarouf, head of the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees, said only four of the 24 bakeries it contracted still supply bread for shelters, warning that most of the remaining ones might close soon due to fuel shortages.

Hamas media office said that Israel had bombed Gaza with more than 12,000 tons of explosives, equals to dropping 33 tons per square km, leading to the damages of more than 183,000 housing units, or 50 percent of all housing in Gaza.

Salama Maarouf said during a press conference that one person out of every 100 citizens in the Palestinian enclave was either killed or injured in Israel's continuous attacks, and about 1,400,000 people, or 70 percent of Gaza's population, have been internally displaced, many of whom seek refuge in 222 shelter centers.

Also on Tuesday, a Palestinian spokesman warned of a "total collapse" of the health system in Gaza due to power outage and the exhaustion of fuel needed to operate generators in hospitals.

Ashraf Al-Qudra, spokesman for the Gaza-based Health Ministry, told a press conference that Israeli attacks had so far killed 65 medical staff, destroyed 25 ambulances, and made 12 hospitals and 32 health centers in the Palestinian enclave inoperable.

Al-Qudra said Gaza faces a possible outbreak of infections, as 3,150 cases of diseases, ranging from diarrhea, food poisoning, scabies and bronchial infections were reported in a day since the ongoing conflict, with most of them reported among children, due to the lack of clean water and poor sanitation in shelter facilities.

At the same time, the Israeli army continued to threaten a ground invasion into Gaza, raising fears of prolonging the round of fighting and the possibility of expanding the escalation into a regional war.

IDF Chief-of-Staff Herzi Halevi said Tuesday the troops are honing tactical preparedness while awaiting a joint decision from "the political level regarding the essence and timing of the next stage."

Speaking to a Security Council open debate on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine on Tuesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed that the protection of civilians holds paramount importance in any armed conflicts, urging relevant parties to refrain from "using them as human shields" or ordering millions "to evacuate to the south, where there is no shelter, no food, no water, no medicine and no fuel, and then continuing to bomb the south itself."

Guterres voiced deep concern over "the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza," repeating his call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

Tensions are also growing along the Israeli-Lebanese border and in Syria. In southern Lebanon, three Hezbollah fighters were killed on Wednesday evening by the Israeli army on the border, raising the total number of Hezbollah deaths to 44 since the fighting broke out, the Lebanese Shiite military group said in a statement.

Hezbollah said it had attacked the Israeli "Branit" barracks with missiles and artillery shells, and a military target near the Hadab Al-Bustan site in the western sector of the border with occupied Palestine and two Israeli sites of Hanita and Al-Bahri with guided missiles, destroying their equipment.

In Syria, the Aleppo International Airport in the north was damaged in an Israeli missile attack on Wednesday, hours after another missile launched from the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights killed eight Syrian military personnel in the southern province of Daraa, the Syrian army said.
The judge overseeing the case against Moscow homicides suspect Bryan Kohberger announced Thursday that he will continue to allow cameras during hearings, but with more control over them.

Judge John Judge of Idahos 2nd Judicial District in Latah County kicked off the hearing saying he had yet to issue his decision on the matter, but that still and video cameras will for now continue to be permitted.

Im not going to ban cameras in the courtroom, but I need more control over what cameras are doing, Judge told attendees Thursday afternoon. I know I can only control so much, and thats why I continue to urge people to be patient and have some dignity and some restraint.

Judge said hes been disappointed by how some photos and video footage is later used by individuals on the internet. He did not detail how he plans to take more control of cameras permitted in the courtroom going forward.

Kohbergers attorneys argued last month that the ongoing presence of cameras in the courtroom deprives their client of his constitutional right to due process guaranteed under the 14th Amendment. His defense team said that media photographers and videographers have disobeyed Judges prior instruction to avoid focusing exclusively on Kohberger.

Photos solely of Kohberger are also later appended to articles with blatantly sensationalistic and prejudicial headlines and content, Jay Logsdon, one of Kohbergers public defenders, wrote in a legal filing that sought to update the courts rules for cameras inside the courtroom, by eliminating them.

The concept of removing this sort of almost sideshow from whats being put out there, we think, would be an important way to kind of take away the sensationalization of this case, and just kind of reduce it to hopefully the words on the page, Logsdon added at a court hearing on the issue last week.

Bryan Kohberger, center, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022, sits with his attorneys, Anne Taylor, left, and Jay Logsdon, at a hearing in Latah County Court, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, Pool)

Kohberger, 28, who attended the hearing, is accused of stabbing four University of Idaho students to death at an off-campus Moscow home in November 2022. The victims were seniors Kaylee Goncalves and Madison Mogen, both 21; and junior Xana Kernodle and freshman Ethan Chapin, both 20.

Kohberger faces four counts of first-degree murder and one count of felony burglary. A trial date has yet to be set after Kohberger waived his right to a speedy trial, but prosecutors have already stated their intent to pursue the death penalty if a jury finds him guilty.

Judge said during the 40-minute hearing that he sought to strike a balance concerning cameras between what is best for the parties in the case to achieve a fair trial, and the need to preserve public access in the highly watched legal proceedings.

Its a benefit and also potentially a harm, Judge said. It can tilt a case one way or the other if the media is, well, trying the case in the media. And we dont want that because thats not based on evidence, thats not based on the rules of the court and it can get out of control.

Prosecutors in their response said they recognized the importance of the media in the court process. The also cited their reservations about journalists capturing images and video of graphic evidence from the crime and of vulnerable witnesses who may testify at trial.

The decision of whether to allow cameras in the courtroom is discretionary for the court, Brad Rudley, deputy attorney in the Latah County Prosecutors Office, told Judge at the hearing. However, our contention is that the safest way and best way to address all of these concerns is to prohibit cameras in the courtroom, or at least bar them from filming or shooting sensitive evidence or witnesses, he said.

Media coalition, victims families oppose camera ban

Wendy Olson, a former U.S. attorney for the state of Idaho, represented a coalition of about two dozen media outlets, including the Idaho Statesman, at the hearing. She argued for maintaining camera access in the courtroom on First Amendment grounds, adding that images and video from the court proceedings help limit the publishing of misinformation about the case by non-journalist commentators.

The answer is not less sunshine, its more, Olson told Judge. The public and this community will be best served by having those cameras in the courtroom.

Wendy Olson, center, an attorney representing a coalition of media outlets, including the Idaho Statesman, wraps up arguments to maintain cameras in the courtroom for proceedings related to Moscow homicides defendant Bryan Kohberger at a hearing in Latah County Court, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, Pool)

Judge denied the coalitions attempt to be listed as formal intervenors on the camera question but said he would consider the argument of the media outlets in his ruling on an amicus curiae basis, a Latin term that translates to friend of the court.

At least two of the victims families also oppose removing cameras from the courtroom, including at trial.

Shanon Gray, attorney for the Goncalves family, issued a statement to the Statesman on behalf of his clients, as well as some members of the Kernodle family.

Speculation is fueled by the secrecy surrounding everything that is filed and every hearing that is closed off to the media and the public, the statement read. So it is vitally important that the trial be viewed publicly! It is important to the victims family, relatives, community members and the public that this veil of secrecy be lifted at trial. This not only ensures accountability for all the parties involved, but also helps the public maintain its faith in the justice system!

In his argument, Logsdon said the defense had concerns about the ability of media camera operators from their current vantage near where prosecutors and the defense team are seated to zoom in on their work right over our shoulder. Logsdon suggested the video camera be moved to the back of the courtroom, perhaps mounted for a single wide shot as is sometimes seen on C-SPAN coverage of Congress.

I thought that might be a way to kind of give a little, and kind of protect what were trying to protect, Logsdon said.

Bryan Kohberger, left, who is accused of killing four University of Idaho students in November 2022, at a hearing in Latah County Court overseen by Judge John Judge, Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2023, in Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, Pool)

Judge said he would issue his ruling at a later time and review the concept. He then renewed his overarching message to members of the media and others closely following the high-profile case.

Please have patience, be respectful and be decent. Thats what I want, Judge said.
A Los Angeles County judge dismissed a lawsuit challenging the city of L.A.s so-called mansion tax on Tuesday, signaling the end of a legal battle from the luxury real estate community which sought to prove the measure was unconstitutional.

Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Barbara Scheper issued a tentative ruling that dismissed the challenge on Monday after hearing arguments from both parties. The lawsuit was officially dismissed on Tuesday, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Emergency Renters Assistance Program opens to L.A. residents

The legal battle, which was spearheaded by Newcastle Courtyards and Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn., drew national attention as other cities looked to see how the city would handle the issue.

Advocates of the measure told the Times that L.A. desperately needs the money raised by the tax and were happy with the judges decision.

On the other hand, an attorney for Newcastle told the publication he plans to appeal the decision.

The tax, known as Measure ULA, was passed in November and took effect on April 1. The measure imposed a 4% transfer tax on residential and commercial real estate sales over $5 million and a 5.5% tax on properties over $10 million.

If a mansion is sold while the measure is active, the seller must pay the tax cost.

New California law to limit how much landlords can charge for security deposits

The measure also established the ULA Tax, which will be used to fund affordable housing projects and provide resources to tenants at risk of homelessness, according to the Los Angeles Office of Finance website.

Other cities like San Francisco, and Culver City have implemented similar versions of L.A.s mansion tax.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Donald Trump at his civil fraud trial in New York. Jane Rosenberg/Reuters

Trump's testimony in a gag order hearing at his NY fraud trial "rings hollow and untrue," the judge writes.

Despite Trump's words, it was "unmistakably clear" that he intentionally violated the gag, he writes.

The judge stops short of calling Trump an outright perjuror.

Lest there be any mistaking how angry the judge in Donald Trump's New York fraud trial is, he has now memorialized, on paper, why he did not believe the former president's sworn testimony from Wednesday  and why he therefore gag-slapped him $10,000.

It's what's called a "sua sponte" judicial order, meaning an order that no party asked for, but which he, state Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron, took it upon himself to issue.

It's only two pages, but it's loaded, at least as judicial orders go, with swagger and outrage.

In the order, Engoron says Trump gave testimony that "rings hollow and untrue" after being suddenly called to the witness stand on Wednesday.

It was "unmistakenly clear" the judge also writes, that Trump violated his limited gag banning personal attacks on Engoron's court staff, despite the former president's sworn claims Wednesday that he hadn't.

The judge comes thisclose to saying Trump lied under oath  which is the definition of perjury, if coming from a judge  but does not.

Judge Arthur Engoron sits three feet to the left of his principal law clerk, Allison Greenfield, at the Trump fraud trial in New York. Seth Wenig/AP

Before we unpack the outrage, some background, and an update.

Engoron has presided for three years over New York Attorney General Letitia James' efforts to investigate  and now punish at trial  Trump for what she calls his pattern of billion-dollar exaggerations in annual net-worth statements he uses to get better deals on loans and insurance.

Those three years in the trenches mean Engoron has longer experience dealing with Trump, and presiding over his balky compliance with investigatory subpoenas and judicial orders, than any other judge now handling the former president's many civil and criminal cases. In the AG case he has found Trump in contempt for dodging subpoenas and found him twice in violation of his limited gag order.

And here's the update: early Thursday in his courtroom, Engoron stood by Wednesday's $10,000 gag-violation fine after hearing another round of protests from Trump's lawyers.

The judge sets the scene

The opening of Justice Arthur Engron's written order that Trump pay a $10,000 gag-order fine. NY Courts/Insider

"On October 3, on the record, I imposed on all parties to this action a very limited gag order," Engoron begins the order.

He starts by quoting from what he said in first setting the gag, saying it's an order "forbidding all parties from posting, emailing or speaking publicly about any members of my staff."

There would be "serious sanctions" if it's violated, he reminds his readers.

Despite the gag, Trump's original offending Truth Social post remained up on Trump's campaign website for 17 days, Engoron notes. This resulted in "a $5,000 nominal sanction against Donald Trump for the first-time violation of the gag order."

Trump has countered through his defense team that this original offending post  falsely calling Engoron's principal law clerk, Allison Greenfield "Schumer's girlfriend"  was accidentally automatically uploaded to his campaign website by underlings and algorithms.

Then came this week's violation

The third paragraph of Justice Arthur Engoron's order fining Donald Trump $10,000. NY Courts/Insider

"On October 25, during a break from the trial, Donald Trump made the following statement to a gaggle of reporters outside the courtroom: 'This judge is a very partisan judge with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside him, perhaps even more partisan than he is,'" the judge writes now of what happened in a courthouse hallway on Wednesday.

"Quite clearly," he writes, "the defendant was referring, once again, to my Principal Law Clerk, who sits alongside me on the bench."

The judge reminds the reader that soon afterward, he called Trump to the witness stand, swearing him in as the only witness in a three-minute-long hearing on the gag violation.

Asked by Engoron who he had meant by "a person who's very partisan sitting alongside him," Trump had answered, "You and Michael Cohen," who'd testified throughout the day.

Engoron now writes: "As the trier of fact, I find this testimony rings hollow and untrue. The Oxford English Dictionary defines 'alongside' as 'close to the side of; next to.'

"Witnesses do not sit 'alongside' the judge, they sit in the witness box, separated from the judge by a low wooden barrier," the judge continues.

Besides, the judge notes, whenever Trump insults his former fixer, he comes right out and says "Michael Cohen  or a "derogatory name."

"He is unambiguous in making it known he is referring to Michael Cohen."

Former attorney for former U.S. President Donald Trump, Michael Cohen, arrives to be deposed by Trump lawyers in New York, U.S. April 28, 2023. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz

And there's another big clue Trump meant the clerk, the judge writes. Trump's hallway attack "mirrors the language he used in public statements to the press on October 2," the first day of the fraud trial, the judge notes.

Back then, Trump bellyached that "this rogue judge is a Trump hater, the only one that hates Trump more is his associate up there, this person that works with him, and she's screaming into his ear."

Trump intentionally left out Greenfield's name when he called her "partisan" in the hallway on Wednesday, Engoron also notes. The judge calls this name-omission a calculated, ultimately unsuccessful end run around his gag order.

"Using imprecise language as an excuse to create plausible ambiguity about whether the defendant violated this Court's unequivocal gag order is not a defense; the subject of Donald Trump's public statement to the press was unmistakably clear," he adds.

"As the trier of fact, I find Donald Trump was referring to my Principal Law Clerk, and that, as such, he has intentionally violated the gag order."

The judge ends by ordering Trump to pay a $10,000 fine within 30 days, payable to the New York Lawyers' Fund for Client Protection.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City

By Jack Queen

(Reuters) -A New York judge on Thursday reconsidered but ultimately stood by his decision to fine Donald Trump $10,000 for violating a gag order barring the former U.S. president from speaking publicly about court staff during his civil fraud trial.

Justice Arthur Engoron fined Trump for the second time on Wednesday after he again appeared to violate the order by making an apparent reference to his top clerk in comments before news cameras outside the courtroom.

Engoron had agreed to reconsider on Thursday after a lawyer for Trump argued that the offending statement was not directed at his clerk. Engoron did not take long to reach a decision after reviewing a clip of Trump's remarks during a morning break, saying it was "clear" Trump was referring to his clerk.

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2024 U.S. election, is accused in the lawsuit by Democratic New York Attorney Letitia James of inflating his assets by billions of dollars to secure better loan terms and insurance premiums.

Engoron leveled the $10,000 penalty against Trump on Wednesday after he said to reporters outside the courtroom, "this judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside of him."

It is standard practice in New York state court for clerks to sit next to judges, with the witness box on the other side.

Briefly called to the stand to explain the comment on Wednesday, Trump said he was referring to witness Michael Cohen, his former lawyer and fixer.

Engoron said in a written order that this explanation rang "hollow and untrue" and that using "imprecise language" to create "plausible ambiguity" is not a defense.

Engoron imposed the gag order on Oct. 3 after Trump shared on social media the name and photo of the judges top clerk and suggested she was politically biased. He had fined Trump $5,000 on Oct. 20 after a screenshot of the since-deleted post remained visible on Trumps campaign site for weeks.

(Reporting by Jack Queen, Editing by Nick Zieminski and Jonathan Oatis)
A federal judge struck down Georgias Republican-drawn congressional and state legislative maps Thursday, ruling they violated the Voting Rights Act by diluting the power of Black voters.

U.S. District Judge Steve Joness ruling gives the state Legislature until Dec. 8 to draw new lines before the court will step in to order its own remedial map.

Although Georgia could appeal, the decision paves the way to boost Black voting representation in the Peach State, also potentially aiding Democrats attempt to retake the House next year.

After conducting a thorough and sifting review of the evidence in this case, the Court finds that the State of Georgia violated the Voting Rights Act when it enacted its congressional and legislative maps, Jones, an Obama appointee, wrote in a 516-page opinion.

The Court commends Georgia for the great strides that it has made to increase the political opportunities of Black voters in the 58 years since the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, he continued. Despite these great gains, the Court determines that in certain areas of the State, the political process is not equally open to Black voters.

Top Stories from The Hill

Jones said a remedial map would need to include one additional majority-Black congressional district, two additional majority-Black state Senate districts and five additional majority-Black state House districts.

A spokesperson for Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr (R) said the office was reviewing the order and declined further comment.

The ruling follows a roughly two-week bench trial Jones held last month.

Attorneys for various plaintiffs argued Georgia was required to draw additional majority-Black districts under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which requires voting maps to provide minority groups with equal opportunity to participate in the political process.

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The plaintiffs noted the states Black population had grown significantly since the last redistricting cycle, arguing the map designs had not kept up.

Largely siding with those challengers, Jones specifically found that Georgias congressional map diluted the strength of Black voting power in west-metro Atlanta, while the state legislative maps did so in around Atlanta and Macon, Ga.

We are thrilled that the Court struck down Georgias congressional and state legislative maps today and outlined a clear process by which Georgia voters will get relief before the 2024 election, whether or not Georgias General Assembly chooses to comply with this order, Elias Law Group partner Abha Khanna, who represents some of the plaintiffs, said in a statement.

Rahul Garabadu, senior voting rights staff attorney at the ACLU of Georgia, which represents other plaintiffs, called the decision a victory for Georgia voters.

In 2021, the General Assembly ignored Georgias diversification over the last decade and enacted a state legislative map that demonstrably diluted the voting strength of Black voters, Garabadu said in a statement. Todays decision charts a path to correct that grave injustice before the 2024 election cycle. The General Assembly should now move swiftly to enact a remedial map that fairly represents Black voters.

The case is one of several congressional redistricting battles being litigated in the wake of the Supreme Courts decision in June concerning Alabamas map.

The high court in a surprise decision preserved the current scope of the Voting Rights Act by striking down the Republican-led states congressional map. It ultimately led to the implementation of a map that nearly added another majority-Black district.

On similar grounds, voting rights and racial justice advocates have been challenging other Republican-drawn maps across the South in states like Louisiana and Arkansas.

Updated at 3:58 pm.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The judges overseeing former President Donald J. Trumps civil and criminal trials need to send a message to him and his supporters that the gag orders restricting Trump from spewing dangerous invective actually have teeth.

New York state Judge Arthur Engoron has now found Trump violated the courts gag order twice in less than a week, but has thus far only punished Trump with two finesthe first one was $5,000 and the second one was $10,000that cannot even be charitably called slaps on the wrist for someone with Trumps wealth.

Make no mistake, Judge Engoron was pissed off at Trump for again trying to attack Engorons law clerk. Trumps previous violation involved failing to remove an image of the clerk from his campaign website that falsely claimed the clerk was a girlfriend of Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY). Trumps lawyers excused it as an oversight.

Trumps Deranged Behavior in His New York Fraud Trial Will Make Him Lose Bigly

The second violation occurred yesterday afternoon when Trump told reporters that Engoron was partisan and with a person whos very partisan sitting alongside him. Perhaps even much more partisan than he is.

This remark resulted in the judge ordering Trump to take the witness stand and explain who he was talking about. Trump testified, under oath, that he was referencing Michael Cohenhis former lawyer who had been testifying over the course of the past daynot the clerk.

Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial in New York on October 25, 2023. Jeenah Moon/Reuters

Engoron then made a finding that he did not find Trump credible and doubled the previous fine adding, Dont do it again, or it will be worse.

With all due respect to Judge Engoron, I cant help but wonder how much worse for the next offensemaybe $20,000? At that rate, the amount of money Trump is likely to make fundraising off of Engorons sanctions will end up dwarfing the sanctions themselves.

In the federal criminal case in Washington, D.C., Judge Tanya S. Chutkan also imposed a gag order on Trump in which she forbade him from targeting the special counsel staffincluding Special Counsel Jack Smithcourt staff and foreseeable witnesses or the substance of their testimony.

Chutkans order was a model of legal clarity and an admirable stand against the authoritarian leanings of Trump and his followers. But rather than letting the order stand while Trump appealed it, Chutkan stayed it to allow Trump time to appeal it.

Yesterday, Special Counsel Jack Smith filed pleadings arguing Chutkan should lift her stay because the stay has given Trump carte blanche to repeatedly violate her order. Smiths team pointed out that Trump has been calling witnesses who cooperated weaklings and cowards, and argued: The defendant has capitalized on the courts administrative stay to, among other prejudicial conduct, send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness in this case. Smiths team added, Unless the court lifts the administrative stay, the defendant will not stop his harmful and prejudicial attacks.

Again, with all due respect to Judge Chutkan, did she really think Trump was going to quiet down while his lawyers appealed her ruling? The effect of her self-imposed stay allowed Trump to continue to do the very damage she sought to enddamage that cannot be undone.

Judge Forces Trump to Testify About Insult Then Fines Him $10K

While both judges may be trying to be judicious in their actions, their caution flies in the face of the proven danger caused by Trumps words. As pointed out by Jeffrey Toobinauthor of HomegrownTimothy McVeigh and the Rise of Right-Wing Extremismample evidence exists that Trumps invective has led to violence, even when it falls short of criminal incitement to violence. The Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol is an obvious example of vicious violence which Trump inspired.

In 2020, an ABC News report identified at least 54 criminal cases in which Trump was invoked in direct connection with violent acts, threats of violence or allegations of assault. By contrast, ABC News found no criminal cases where an act of violence or threat was made in the name of President Barack Obama or President George W. Bush.

Election workers, Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, memorably testified before Congress about the threats and dangers they suffer to this day due to Trumps lies and those of his enablers like Rudy Giuliani.

Donald Trump delivers a speech at the Republican National Convention on July 21, 2016. Joe Raedle/Getty

During Trumps presidency, his racialization of the COVID-19 pandemic by calling it kung flu and the China virus was linked with a rise in anti-Asian content on Twitter (now known as X) that included expletives directed against Asians, as well as hashtags advocating bombing Chinese cities and killing Chinese people.

A 2022 Brookings Institution article cited research showing one in five Americans believe that Asian Americans are at least partially responsible for COVID, and noted the increase of Asian Americans being spat upon and told to go back to your country. According to one study, the increase of harassment and violence against Asians, including the attacks and murders of elderly Asian Americans, increased from 2021 to 2022 by 339 percent.

Words do matter.

Neither Judge Engoron nor Judge Chutkan are likely intimidated by Trump or his authoritarian-leaning followers. Rather, they both probably strive to show deference to the office that Trump once held and the system of government that elected him. They are institutionalists seeking to protect the integrity of the institution (the justice system) by taking care to appear prudent in their reactions, perhaps believing that cautious action will ensure public confidence in their decisions.

Judge Fines Trump, Threatens Prison Time for Blatantly Violating Gag Order

But in so doing they are failing to trust the system as a whole and overestimate their own importance or perhaps sense how much the public overestimates their roles. Like the old memes of Robert Mueller as a warrior who would vanquish Trump and the new ones of a steely-eyed Jack Smith who has taken over that role, these are inaccurate images of justice. True justice is not delivered by lone wolf prosecutor warriors or crusading judges, but by a system of dedicated public servants.

Chutkan and Engoron should trust this system to oversee their decisionslawyers will challenge them and appeals courts will review them. As judges they need to make the punishment for violating their orders significant enough to have a real deterrent effect. That means financial fines in amounts that will matter to someone as rich as Trump.

And if jail is required to make Trump respect the law then so be it. Jail should be a logistics problem for the U.S. Secret Service, not a factor to be weighed in dispensing justice.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Kansas officials are calling a massive computer outage thats kept most of the states courts offline for two weeks a security incident and, while they had not provided an explanation as of Wednesday, experts say it has all the hallmarks of a ransomware attack.

The disruption has left attorneys unable to search online records and forced them to file motions the old fashioned way  on paper. Courts are limping along, although the growing piles of paper are a mess that will have to be sorted and scanned eventually.

Its really just slowed the whole system down, said Chris Joseph, a Lawrence-based criminal defense attorney.

This computer terminal at the Shawnee County Courthouse is normally used for public access to Kansas court records, but it was shut down amid a what court officials call a "security incident." Experts say it has the hallmarks of a ransomware attack.

Since 2019, ransomware groups have targeted 18 state, city or municipal court systems, said analyst Allan Liska, of the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future. That includes one in Dallas, where some jury trials had to be canceled this year.

But state-focused attacks have been much less frequent and have not yet rivaled what is happening in Kansas.

We are treating this matter with the highest priority, Lisa Taylor, the Judicial Branchs spokesperson, said in an email Wednesday.

Liska noted Tuesday that a short-lived attack in 2019 in Georgia shut down some court websites and forced some court dates to be rescheduled. A cybersecurity threat forced Alaskas courts offline for about a week in 2021. Texas top criminal and civil courts were hit with a ransomware attack in 2020 but the filing system remained operational and trial courts werent affected.

In Kansas, the first sign of trouble came on Oct. 12 when the states Judicial Branch announced a pause in electronic filings because of a security incident. The details released since have been sparse.

KBI is working with federal partners on 'cyber incident' in Kansas courts

Taylor said only that an investigation is ongoing in response to questions of whether the courts had determined that this was a malicious attack, whether theres been a demand for a ransom or when the systems will be back up. The court system has set up a website dealing with the incident, and Taylor said its officials will cooperate with any law enforcement investigation.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation said only that is is engaged in examining the problems, along with federal partners, said spokesperson Melissa Underwood.

No ransomware group has come forward to claim credit for the prolonged outage, analysts said. But Liska said it is highly unlikely that this is anything but a ransomware attack.

The fact that theyre calling it a cyber incident says that its nefarious, Liska said.

Notably spared was Johnson County in the Kansas City area, the states most populous county. It operates its own computer systems and had not yet switched over to the states new online court system.

The effort to switch to a single, statewide system for tracking and managing cases started in 2018 under a 10-year, $11.5 million contract with Dallas-based Tyler Technologies. Tyler, which has similar contracts in around a dozen other states, referred questions to state court officials.

States have been moving toward statewide systems for more than a decades. On the security front, there are pros and cons, said analyst Brett Callow, of the cybersecurity firm Emsisoft.

On the pro side, economies of scale mean more resources should be able to be committed to protecting and securing that system, he said. On the con side, when an attack does succeed ... its going to knock out the entire state system rather than simply an individual county or municipality.

Additionally, if security is not adequately built in during the rollout, systems can be more vulnerable, Liska said.

A risk assessment of the states court system, issued last year, is kept permanently confidential under state law. But two recent audits of other state agencies identified weaknesses. The most recent one, released in July, said that agency leaders dont know or sufficiently prioritize their IT security responsibilities.

Some Kansas courts are moving forward, but others are stalled

With the system down, courts havent been able to accept electronic filings, process payments, manage cases, grant public access to records, allow people to file electronically for protection-from-abuse orders and to apply electronically for marriage licenses.

In Sedgwick County, home to the states largest city of Wichita, Judge Phil Journey said Wednesday that although he is known as a techie judge, hes still maintained extensive paper files. Thats allowing him to move forward with his family law cases. But, he said, other judges who were more reliant on digital files are faced with postponing trials.

All I know is that were on paper for at least another week, he said. Well be killing a lot of trees.

More: 'Network security incident' leaves Kansas court system operating by paper and fax machines

In Wyandotte County, also in the Kansas City area, the outage has caused some delays, but trials are proceeding, said Jonathan Carter, a spokesman for the district attorneys office. A massive ransomware attack last year in the county crippled key services, including the court system. Whether that is related to what is happening now is unclear.

Meanwhile, older attorneys are finding their skills in high demand, as they teach younger attorneys to use faxes and file with paper, said Karla Whitaker, interim executive director of the Kansas Bar Association.

The wheels of justice are turning, she said Wednesday. But I think its just happening in a different way at a different pace right now.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Kansas court system security incident has hallmarks of ransomware
Kate Hudson's couture Vera Wang wedding coat has been missing since 2006.

She wore the one-of-a-kind ensemble during her 2000 wedding to Chris Robinson.

Chris Damone found the coat after buying a storage unit. Now he's returning it to Hudson.

After 17 years of searching, Kate Hudson will finally be reunited with her long-lost wedding coat.

Chris Damone said he discovered the couture Vera Wang garment after buying a storage unit at an auction in New York.

Chris, who lives in New Windsor, told Insider he's been buying storage units for years as a hobby and side hustle. He documents his finds on his YouTube channel, The Storage Gambler.

"I thought it looked fun, went to my first live auction and was instantly hooked," he said. "It feels like a treasure hunt."

But Chris said he had no idea there was treasure waiting inside a garment bag that had come with the $2,000 unit he purchased  even when he saw the name "Kate Hudson" on the dry-cleaning tag.

Hudson wore this wedding coat to her wedding with Chris Robinson. Chris Damon

"It didn't even cross my mind," he told Insider. "I just assumed someone had the same name."

Chris said he found a fur coat inside the bag with a tag that read "Made to Order Vera Wang." He showed it to his cousin Lucille Damone, who runs the vintage clothing store Galipette Vintage in New York's Hudson Valley.

"It looked like a bridal piece, so I immediately Googled 'Kate Hudson wedding' and the photo of her and Chris Robinson popped up," Lucille told Insider.

The coat was an exact match to the one Hudson had worn during her 2000 wedding to The Black Crowes frontman. The celebrity couple, who wed in Aspen, split in 2007. Hudson is currently engaged to musician Danny Fujikawa, who she began dating in 2016.

Hudson's coat is couture Vera Wang. Chris Damon

And when Chris looked up the address on the dry-cleaner tag, he realized it was Hudson's former street in New York City's Greenwich Village  which now shares the same name as her vodka brand.

"I couldn't believe it," Chris said. "Me and Lucille were beyond excited that we found something so unique and special."

Lucille said she had "all the feels" when she realized what her cousin had found.

"I was shocked, excited, amazed," she said. "As a vintage dealer, part of the absolute joy of my work is the hunt for the pieces."

"It is custom Vera Wang Couture, meaning there was only one made especially for Kate on her special day," she added. "It is made of the absolute softest fur I've ever felt and has a shawl collar and dramatic train."

Hudson and Robinson in 2000. Justin Goff\UK Press via Getty Images

Chris and Lucille said they located the coat a year ago, but hadn't been able to get in touch with Hudson until earlier this month.

"I reached out to quite a few people who could possibly get in touch with her to let her know I had her coat, but apparently the messages never reached her," Chris said.

They finally found success thanks to Cherie Federau, a vintage dress reseller who was able to get in touch with the actress.

"Turns out she has been searching for this coat since 2006, and she was very excited to get it back," Chris said of Hudson.

The dress coat was shipped back to Hudson on Wednesday, and Lucille told Insider she's proud to have helped facilitate the reunion.

"I'm honored to be a part of this full circle moment and return it to its rightful owner, Kate," she said. "I'm sure it'll be an emotional moment for her."

Representatives for Kate Hudson and Vera Wang Bridal did not respond to Insider's request for comment outside of regular business hours.

Read the original article on Insider
James Middleton proposed to Alizee Thevenet in 2019, with the pair tying the knot two years later (Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

The Princess of Wales, Kate Middletons brother James and Alizee Thevenet have welcomed their first child together.

Photos obtained by the Daily Mail on Thursday (26 October) showed the couple sipping on coffees and pushing a stroller while out for a walk with their newborn in Notting Hill, London.

The youngest Middleton sibling, 36, announced Thevenet was pregnant on Instagram in July, sharing a picture of the French financial analyst posing with their dog Mable. He captioned the post: We couldnt be more excited  well Mable might be along with a heart emoji.

Neither the youngest Middleton sibling nor Thevenet have publicly confirmed the news, with further details about the date of birth and babys name still awaited.

The Independent has contacted Jamess representatives for comment.

The newborn is the first cousin of Kate and Williams three children  Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five  and sister Pippa Middleton s three kids with husband James Matthews.

James met Thevenet in 2019, with the British entrepreneur crediting his late dog Ella for orchestrating their meet-cute at the Chelseas upmarket South Kensington club five years ago.

In a 2021 article published inThe Telegraph, James recalled how his beloved cocker spaniel literally led him to Thevenet, writing: Ella was lying at my feet under the table; realising she might want some water, I trusted her to take herself over to the water bowl across the terrace.

However, she made a beeline for Alizee. Rather embarrassed, I went over to apologise and bring Ella back, he continued, revealing Thevenet mistook him for a waiter and ordered her drink while continue to play with Ella.

(Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

James added: Little did I know, but I had just met my future wife, all thanks to Ella. If I hadnt trusted Ella, I wouldnt have brought her to the South Kensington Club and she wouldnt have been able to say hi to the woman who became my fiancee.

The couple got engaged a year later, but Covid lockdowns delayed their wedding until September 2021, when they tied the knot in a beachside ceremony in Provence, France. The former Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, their children, and Pippa and James were all reportedly in attendance.

Thevenet opted to wear her mother-in-law Carole Middletons wedding gown on her special day.

My something borrowed was in fact my dress from my mother-in-law Carole who last wore it 41 years ago on her wedding day in June, 1980, Thevenet told Hello! magazine.

In January, James announced on Instagram that my dear Ella has passed away, adding that his companion of 15 years had slipped away in my arms after a short period of illness.

Alongside a picture of Ella, he admitted: Im just about holding it together to write this, and despite the fact I knew this day was coming, it doesnt make it any easier.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.- On Tuesday, the city released a list of transportation projects theyd like to have done in the future that total $15 billion.

The biggest project on the list is a $10.5 billion 21-mile rail line from the Kansas City International Airport to Downtown Kansas City.

Gameday in the dark: Power outage will hit entire town during Chiefs game

Its definitely feasible because its been looked at before and found to be feasible, Kansas City Regional Transit Alliance Chair David Johnson said. So, feasibility really isnt the big problem. It is funding.

Johnson said another challenge would be the fact that the rail line would go through other communities, not just the city. He says what was announced Tuesday was financing for this project, which is different from direct funding.

Every prior proposal runs up against a problem with local funding, which the first study of light rail to KCI found in the 70s70s, he continued. The city had an opportunity to get almost 90 percent of the project directly funded by the federal government because federal investment in transit was new at that time, so they were encouraging cities to invest by investing more of their own dollars.

Johnson said that the project would have just required a bond sale at the time, but the city walked away from it. 50 years later, leaders are debating the same project.

We have to do the work for them, Mayor Quinton Lucas said when asked if the money from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) was just available to them.

Lucas said theyre forming a marriage or partnership with the department to get the $15 billion worth of projects done.

Excelsior Springs officer exposed to deadly substances in drug take back box

Its not just a direct check immediately for that, Mayor Lucas said about that financial amount. What you saw in the workshops that weve had with the USDOT and others is to say that, Weve identified $15 billion of worthy projects. Its the U.S. Department of Transportation saying, We see the worthiness of this, and now its saying, Lets get to work.'

Johnson says funding has not been secured for the rail line. The full city council would likely have to approve funding for it in the future, along with getting money from the USDOT.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
 Flash

Chinese ambassador to the United States Xie Feng speaks at the annual Gala Dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations (NCUSCR) in New York, the United States, on Oct. 24, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

The United States and China must find a way to get along for the benefit of all, Chinese ambassador to the United States Xie Feng said on Tuesday.

"Going forward, we need to find a right way for China and the United States to get along in the new era," said Xie at the Gala Dinner 2023 of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. "We will be celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of China-U.S. diplomatic ties next year. The China-U.S. relationship will continue to be the most important bilateral relationship in the world."

"It is China's consistent belief that our two countries should be partners, not rivals; that we should pursue win-win outcomes, not zero-sum game; and that we should together stabilize and improve this relationship, not allow it to slide into conflict or confrontation," he said.

The three principles outlined by President Xi Jinping, namely, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, "represent our long-term and fundamental approach to China-U.S. relations and provide a guideline for exploring the path forward," said Xie.

The ambassador noted that while a lot has changed, the historical logic underlying the growth of the China-U.S. relationship has not: "The importance of the relationship for our respective development and world prosperity is not to be underestimated, the aspiration of our peoples for peace and friendship is not to be dismissed, and the efforts of generations of peoples and our extensive common interests are not to be denied."

"At present, stabilizing China-U.S. relations is a common expectation," he said, adding that positive signs of a more stable China-U.S. relationship have been welcomed by various communities in both countries and the international community.

Recently, the two countries have had a series of high-level interactions. China has resumed group tours to the United States; direct flights will increase to 48 every week; and dialogue and exchanges between think tanks, provinces and states, and the legislature are on the rise, Xie noted.

"More high-level interactions are on the way. In two days, Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit the United States. We hope the U.S. side will work with China in the same direction, shorten the negative list, expand the positive agenda, and bring China-U.S. relations back to the right track of sound and stable growth," he said.

"If we can learn anything from the ups and downs in China-U.S. relations over the past few years, it is that conflict between China and the United States should never be allowed, decoupling will never work, Cold-War confrontation will lead nowhere, reversing the downward spiral is a shared wish, and messing up this relationship serves no one's interest," said Xie.

Meanwhile, difficulties and challenges remain, said the ambassador. "But to our encouragement, supporters of exchanges and cooperation between China and the United States are never absent. Friends from the U.S. business and strategic communities have been visiting China, calling for seizing China's opportunities and further tapping its market."

"I am more convinced that the hope and foundation of the China-U.S. relationship lie in the people, and its future lies in the youths. It is the warmhearted, hardworking and open-minded American people, just like those of Iowa, who define what America truly is," said Xie, citing his recent trip to Muscatine, the city President Xi visited in 1985.

"The growth of China-U.S. relations could not be achieved without the strategic guidance of our leaders. Nor will it be achieved without the participation and support by people from various communities in both countries," he said.

"I count on the National Committee (on U.S.-China Relations) and all our friends here to continue playing a leading role in restoring China-U.S. relations back to the right track," Xie said. "Together, let us explore a path of win-win cooperation between China and the United States for the benefits of both peoples and the world."
The News

NAIROBI  Small businesses in Kenya are increasingly rejecting mobile money payments in favor of cash as they look to sidestep aggressive tax compliance measures. The shift follows the deployment of 1,400 paramilitary-trained field officers by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) across the country at the end of September. The field officers, known as Revenue Service Assistants, have been visiting businesses to ensure their compliance with tax requirements.

Confirming the trend, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) last week disclosed that it would seek information on the businesses opting out of mobile money payments from Safaricom, the telco that operates mobile money service M-Pesa and its business-specific payment solution Lipa Na M-Pesa (Pay with M-Pesa). M-Pesa has a 99% share of the mobile money market in Kenya.

A senior KRA manager told Kenyas Business Daily Newspaper: We are working on strategies on how we can work around this.

Know More

The shift by businesses away from M-Pesa payments is a remarkable turn in a country known for pioneering mobile money, and where the service is ubiquitous.

M-Pesa crossed 30 million active customers in March last year, and more than 600,000 merchants received payments through Lipa Na M-Pesa, its business-specific payment solution, in the financial year ended March 2023.

More than half of Kenyas GDP is transacted on the platform. M-Pesa has also been widely credited with having a transformative impact on Kenyans livelihoods and the countrys economy.

Martins view

The KRA is under pressure to meet ambitious revenue targets set by President William Rutos administration, which wants to increase annual tax revenue collection by 25% or 500 billion shillings ($3.3 billion). It missed its revenue target for the 2022/23 financial year by 107 billion shillings. With nearly 60% of the countrys revenues going towards debt-service costs, Ruto has resorted to unpopular tax hikes and aggressive compliance measures to raise revenues.

With the introduction of KRA field officers, small businesses which havent traditionally faced intense scrutiny of their mobile money payment records are worried about forking out more in taxes amid harsh economic times. The high cost of living has hit the purchasing power of many Kenyans, and small businesses are feeling the pinch. Other small business owners are also concerned about potential harassment by the officers.

Bildad Koigi, who runs a cyber cafe in Embakasi, Nairobi, told Semafor Africa that he took down his Lipa Na M-Pesa poster after the revenue service assistants started walking around his neighborhood. I ask for cash now, he said. Whenever customers insist on using mobile money, he asks them to withdraw cash at a nearby M-Pesa agent.

But while the taxation measures may have accelerated a shift away from mobile money payments, rising transaction charges have also been a major concern for small businesses. Merchants using Lipa Na M-Pesa are charged up to 0.55% of the value of each transaction under the Buy Goods option. Many small businesses have been ditching the service as theyve had to take on additional charges when sending money to employees, purchasing stock or withdrawing cash. A trader who sells goods worth 1,000 shillings would retain a maximum of 969.5 shillings after the transaction fee and withdrawal charges, just over 3% in fees. Card payments, which arent nearly as common in Kenya, generally cost merchants between 1% and 6% depending on the transaction value and bank.

Its not just taxes, the charges also eat into our small profits, so at this point isnt it just better to stay without (Lipa Na M-Pesa)? Faith Achieng, who runs a hair salon in Nairobis Kibera neighborhood, told Semafor Africa. She had earlier been paid a visit by revenue service assistants who asked to see mobile money statements.

Room for Disagreement

Marshel Nyangor, a research analyst at Nairobi-based Zimele Asset Management, dismissed concerns that KRAs aggressive taxation measures would erode the immense gains made in Kenyas mobile money market. He argued that while some small businesses would abandon M-Pesa payments in the short term, the convenience of mobile money payments for their customers would see them troop back to the platform in the long run.In the short term, sure, a shop owner might opt to reject M-Pesa. But when he sees the next door shop getting more customers because of the convenience of M-Pesa, eventually theyll revert back to M-Pesa even with KRA on their neck and the service being expensive, he said.

The View From Tanzania

In Tanzania, Kenyas southern neighbor, mobile industry research shows that taxes on mobile money are responsible for driving down its usage. In July 2021, the government introduced a levy of between 10 Tanzanian shillings ($0.004) and 10,000 shillings ($4) on mobile money transactions, on top of an existing 18% VAT and 10% excise duty on mobile money transfer and withdrawal charges. The levy was slashed by 30% in September 2021, and was further reduced by 43% in July 2022 with the government under pressure from the public. The reduction in affordability of [mobile money] therefore threatens to reverse the commendable financial inclusion gains as Tanzanians revert to cash, particularly amongst the vulnerable and the poorest segments of the population, the report noted.

Notable

At the start of the year, Safaricom reduced charges on its Lipa Na M-Pesa Paybill service for businesses and institutions by as much as 50%.
From the mournful desolation of Alien 3 and Seven, to the satiric cynicism of Fight Club and epic futility of Zodiac, to the gnawing bitterness of The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, and Gone Girl, David Finchers cinema has always had a noir heart. Thus, its natural that he fully embraces bleakness with The Killer, a hired-gun thriller (adapted from Alexis Matz Nolent and Luc Jacamons French graphic novel series) that lovingly channels one of the genres finest modern examples, Jean-Pierre Melville s 1967 masterpiece Le Samourai. The story of a cold, methodical assassin whos driven by a strict code of conduct, and which is made with the exacting meticulousness that defines the directors oeuvre, its arguably the greatest expression yet of Finchers style and worldviewcaustic, unrelenting, and wickedly funny.

Like the illustrious Melville predecessor, Finchers The Killer (in theaters Oct. 27 and on Netflix Nov. 10) revolves around a homicidal professional (Michael Fassbender) who accepts the void at the center of the universe because he is one himself. A nameless specter in sunglasses and a tan hat and jacket, Fassbenders protagonist is a figure of discipline, detachment, and rigorous ritual. As he says in the flat inner-monologue narration that functions as the vast majority of his dialogue, hes a man who believes not in fate, karma, or God but, rather, in procedure, preparation, and attention to detail. Guided by a mantra that he repeats throughout the course of his story, he trusts no one, never improvises, and avoids empathy because its a weakness that begets vulnerability. My process is purely logistical, he intones, and the key to his success, as he so bluntly puts it, is that I. Dont. Give. A. Fuck.

Fassbender is the ideal actor to inhabit this murderous cipher, radiating the sort of chillingly rational, ruthless emptiness that characterized his turns in Steve McQueens Shame as well as Ridley Scotts Prometheus and Alien: Covenant. In the stars hands, the killer is a machine who thrives by adhering to his ethos and its attendant routines. Quoting Popeye, he describes himself succinctly with, I am what I am. Fincher, however, knows that the lifeblood of noir is the tensionand, more often than not, doomthat comes from such an individual choosing to be who hes not, or at least stepping outside his chosen path. Consequently, after opening scenes in which this agent of death articulates his core philosophy while waiting to slay a bigwig in a Parisian penthouse suite, Seven scribe Andrew Kevin Walkers superbly concise script throws a wrench in his carefully laid out plans, courtesy of an unthinkable mistake: with his target in his sniper-rifle sights, Fassbenders hit man misses his shot.

Once again partnering with cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt (Mank, Mindhunter), Fincher shoots his action with pinpoint precision, his camera movements scrupulous and his staging fastidious, with lens flares sharply splitting the frame and shadows and window fog tersely bifurcating Fassbenders visage. Aesthetically, The Killer is as clean and efficient as its protagonist, and that form-content harmony extends to Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross electronic score of ominous tones and heartbeat thuds (which mirror the killers skill at lowering his pulse). Finchers clinical approach has no use for Melvilles forlorn romanticism, yet it fits the material like the gloves that Fassbender dons before getting down to his dirty business.

Courtesy of Netflix

The Killer kicks into gear in the aftermath of its antiheros unthinkable blunder. While his retreat is hasty, its nonetheless carried out with unruffled proficiencyjust as, during this sequence, Fincher and Messerschmidt segue to more harried handheld camerawork that remains, at all times, adept and purposeful. Upon returning to his Dominican Republic hideout, Fassbenders executioner discovers that hes had advance visitors, and that theyve done a number on his girlfriend Magdala (Sophie Charlotte). Though he preaches that indifference is necessary for triumph, he violates his own code and seeks out his handler Hodges (Top Gun: Mavericks Charles Parnell), a New Orleans lawyer who he believes has information about the killers who were sent to kill him. When Hodges proves less than compliant, Fassbenders character does what he does best in the first of many long-form sequences that place a premium on his expert step-by-step maneuvers, which are as neat-and-tidy as the storage units that house the tools of his trade, his crisply folded clothes and organized personal belongings, and the orderly means by which he cleans up his messes.

David Finchers The Killer: Youre Going to Want Michael Fassbender to Murder You

Split into chapters, The Killer follows the assassin to Florida, New York, and Chicago in search of vengeance, and at every stop along its journey, it exhibits Finchers mordant sense of humor. Fassbenders deadpan narration is central to its wittiness, as is his characters fondness for The Smiths (whose swooningly morose tracks are all over the soundtrack) and habit of using TV sitcom-inspired aliases (Sam Malone, George Jefferson, Archibald Bunker) for his myriad credit cards and plane tickets. The films drollness comes from its affected lack of affect, with Fassbender ruminating on random aspects of modern life (McDonalds, security cameras, Airbnb, WeWork) as an expression of not simply his perceptiveness and strategic acumen, but also his general anonymity. Never is that more apparent than early on, when he spouts a series of clichesdog eat dog, kill or be killed, survival of the fittestthat speak to his deliberate and all-consuming blankness. With all due respect to Paul Verhoeven, hes modern cinemas true hollow man.

Courtesy of Netflix

Fincher puts Fassbenders mercenary through the paces, highlighted by a ferocious showdown with an ultra-violent brute (Sala Baker) that stands as one of 2023s action standouts, and an ensuing whiskey-tasting meal with an adversary (Tilda Swinton) thats the opposite of his prior clashsave, that is, for its conclusion. Theres no there to Fassbenders killer, and certainly no remorse. The latter additionally goes for The Killer, which both thrills and amuses through its carefully calibrated rhythms and Finchers decidedly Melville-esque existentialism, in which systemsof thought and deed are what provide safety, satisfaction and, fundamentally, a reason to exist.

If spiritually faithful to Le Samourai for most of its fleet 118-minute runtime, however, the film discards noirs trademark fatalism at its end, with Finchers protagonist making clear that the only life path is the one behind you. Its a twist that transforms The Killer into its own uniquely sardonic beastone in which survival isnt earned by the fittest but, rather, by the truly soulless.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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A King County Sheriffs Office deputy, accused of assaulting a handcuffed suspect in March, has pleaded not guilty.

According to court documents, nine King County deputies responded but only five saw Deputy Good allegedly punch the suspect, identified as David Teson.

Three deputies said the force was not reasonable, one said it was reasonable, and one said they didnt think it was something that should have been done.

According to the deputies who saw the alleged assault, Teson didnt strike Deputy Good at any point.

One sergeant said Teson kicked another deputy in the chest several times, knocking him backward. The sergeant then saw Deputy Good push the deputy to the side and punch Teson three times in the chest, with maybe two or three more punches after that. He said he and the deputy then pulled Deputy Good off Teson.

According to court docs, the deputy said he was kicked by Teson while he was trying to put Tesons legs into the back seat of the patrol car. He then saw Deputy Good hit Teson two to three times in the chest. He and the sergeant then pulled Deputy Good away.

The King County Prosecutor Attorneys Office referred the case to a use of force expert.

Goods use of force against someone who was handcuffed, and seat belted in the back of a patrol vehicle was not necessary and was unreasonable. Even though Mr. Teson had kicked a deputy and was yelling profanities, there were other options available to gain compliance, including the same method the deputies had used to get Mr. Teson in the patrol vehicle the first time, said the expert.

The next court hearing is December 6.
FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Biden hosts a summit with Pacific Island nation leaders in Washington, U.S.

FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Biden hosts a summit with Pacific Island nation leaders in Washington, U.S.

By Kirsty Needham

SYDNEY (Reuters) - A Pacific atoll 2,000 miles west of Hawaii appears set for a construction boom, with the United States and Australia on Thursday pledging a wharf for remote Kanton Island as China considers plans to revive a World War Two airfield.

Kiribati's population of 115,000 is scattered among 33 atolls over 3.5 million sq km (1.3 million sq miles) of ocean, and it has been a base for both U.S. and Chinese space tracking stations at different times.

One atoll, in particular, has recently become a focus for Washington and Beijing, after China resumed diplomatic ties with Kiribati, pronounced "kiribass", in 2019.

Kanton Island is a strip of land just 50 metres wide in some places whose 43-km length encloses a parallelogram-shaped lagoon. During World War Two it was a U.S. military base, with a wharf big enough for large ships, and a refuelling stop for flights between the United States and Australia.

Kiribati says it wants to build a hotel there to attract tourists.

In a joint statement on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said they would co-finance maritime infrastructure in Kiribati, and rebuild Kanton Wharf.

The U.S. had already committed $29m to help Kiribati youth employment at a White House summit for the Pacific Islands last month.

China for its part sent experts to the atoll in March to conduct a feasibility study to build a Kanton Island Airport, with Chinese visitors able to travel to Kiribati visa-free from this month.

A Chinese diplomat in Kiribati told Reuters in a statement on Thursday that the proposal was still being studied.

However, a China Daily editorial last month said the U.S. had tried to block the Chinese plan.

The Chinese diplomat said Kiribati had pulled out of China's Belt and Road Forum in Beijing this month, citing its need to prepare to host a Pacific Islands fisheries meeting. Kiribati's government did not respond to a request for comment.

A Pacific expert at the Australian National University, Graeme Smith, said that amid strategic competition in the Pacific Islands, Kiribati was seen as a "country up for grabs - whether it sits in the China or U.S. camp".

"It is western Pacific, which is really America's backyard. It is very close to Hawaii," he said.

Washington pledged billions in economic support to nearby Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and Marshall Islands, under Compacts of Free Association (COFA) struck in the 1980s that saw the U.S. retain responsibility for their defense.

Kiribati, just as important geographically, got no such deal, Smith said.

(Reporting by Kirsty Needham; Editing by Kevin Liffey)
Jeff Gill, a volunteer, gives a tour of the Octagon Earthworks on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The Ohio History Connection held events at the Great Circle and Octagon Earthworks to celebrate their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With the formal declaration of World Heritage List status for the Newark Earthworks, in company with the Chillicothe and Lebanon, Ohio area earthworks together as the "Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks" nomination, its a good time to look around at the company we are now numbered with by UNESCO.

In this same session of the World Heritage Committee, other new nominations from around the world included the ancient city of Jericho, on the Jordan River, and World War I memorial sites in another group nomination, which includes the Menin Gate and Vimy Ridge monument.

Listening online in the early hours of September 19, in that morning session there were six nominations from around the world considered including the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, and two of them were turned aside. Its not a small or simple matter to become a World Heritage Site. They have the opportunity to revise and resubmit in a future cycle, but there are relatively few nominations allowed every two years to a country.

There are both cultural and natural sites; the Newark Earthworks are part of what became the 25th for the United States, among about a thousand around the world.

Jeff Gill

U.S. cultural sites in alphabetical order, with the year they were inscribed on the World Heritage List in parentheses, are: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (1982), Chaco Culture (1987), Independence Hall (1979), La Fortaleza and San Juan National Historic Site in Puerto Rico (1983), Mesa Verde National Park (1978), Monticello and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville (1987), Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point (2014), San Antonio Missions (2015), Statue of Liberty (1984), Taos Pueblo (1992), and The 20th-Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright (2019). Now, with Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks (2023), six of the twelve mark Native American achievements and architecture, but only Poverty Point is older in construction. Taos Pueblo is a living site, still occupied, and well worth visiting in northern New Mexico, about six hundred years old at the foundation level; the Newark Earthworks are nearly two thousand years old.

We share company with the natural sites on the World Heritage List: Carlsbad Caverns National Park (1995), Everglades National Park (1979), Grand Canyon National Park (1979), Great Smoky Mountains National Park (1983), Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (1987), Kluane/Wrangell-St. Elias/Glacier Bay/Tatshenshini-Alsek (1979, 1992, 1994), Mammoth Cave National Park (1981), Olympic National Park (1981), Redwood National and State Parks (1980), Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (1995), Yellowstone National Park (1978), and Yosemite National Park (1984). Along with those twelve, there is one mixed cultural and natural site, in the Pacific Ocean west of Hawaii: Papahanaumokuakea (2010).

Its been one of the small pleasures of working with the World Heritage effort that if Im looking at it in print, I now know how to say "Papahanaumokuakea"!

Ive also had the pleasure over the years to visit 13 of the 25 United States World Heritage Sites. Like many, Im now reviewing those Ive missed and revising my bucket list: time to go visit a few more and learn about their "outstanding universal value" to the world!

Jeff Gill is a writer, storyteller and preacher in central Ohio; hes been both to the San Antonio Missions, and the Alamo, which are not quite the same things. Tell him what other WHL sites youd like to visit at knapsack77@gmail.com, or follow @Knapsack77 on Threads.

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Knapsack: Newark Earthworks in good company on World Heritage list
More than 19,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since the first two buses sent by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived at Union Station on Aug. 31, 2022. What began as a political stunt by Abbott to draw attention to strained resources in border cities handling surging numbers of migrants has ballooned into a full-blown crisis. Southern border governments and charities are sending migrants on bus and train to Chicago and other immigration-friendly U.S. interior cities that have no clear plan to care for them.

Though Chicago has created more than two dozen temporary shelters across the city to house migrants in abandoned buildings, there are still thousands sleeping on the floors of police stations or outside of them  and hundreds at OHare International Airport. The migrants, most from Venezuela, often dont have family or connections here, and many come with little or nothing. City and state offices offering social services are overwhelmed.

Experts say there are no parallels to Abbotts busing program in recent years. According to an Oct. 9, 2023, report from Abbotts office, hes sent over 13,500 migrants to Chicago on charter buses since August 2022 as part of his 2021 border security initiative Operation Lone Star.

And while the busing has cost Abbott millions of dollars, its changing the national conversation about immigration, as governments that have never had to grapple with the strain of mass migration are now forced to face migrants congregating in public parks, begging at grocery store entrances and loitering on street corners. The result is a more universal plea for organization and aid at a federal level  from interior and border cities alike.

Minal Giri, chair of the Immigrant Child Health Initiative at the Illinois Chapter at the American Academy of Pediatrics, said people are fleeing harm and trudging through jungles, which will have long-lasting implications on their mental and physical health. Many migrants coming to Chicago are families with children.

The kids are the ones who suffer the most because they cant advocate for themselves, she said. Theyre playing in the streets, living in the streets.

What does it mean to be a welcoming city?

Chicago is a sanctuary city, which means city employees can avoid enforcing federal immigration laws.

The citys sanctuary status began under its first Black mayor, Harold Washington, whose Dont Ask policy in 1985 banned city officials from inquiring about citizenship. Mayors have since expanded protections, and state laws have also been enacted to protect immigrants. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has repeatedly said he wants Illinois to be the most welcoming state in the country.

Abbott began sending migrants north as a criticism to President Joe Bidens immigration policies, arguing that liberal Northern cities that profess to be sanctuaries should welcome them.

Texas communities ... should not have to shoulder the unprecedented surge of illegal immigration caused by President Bidens reckless open border policies. I have directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to deploy additional buses to send these migrants to self-declared sanctuary cities and provide much-needed relief to our overrun border towns, Abbott said at the time. Until President Biden upholds his constitutional duty to secure Americas southern border, Texas will continue to deploy as many buses as needed to relieve the strain caused by the surge of illegal crossings.

Abbott also sent migrants to Denver and New York, which have dealt with their population differently. New York has limited the amount of time migrant families with children can stay in city shelters, and Denver has bought one-way Greyhound and Amtrak tickets for migrants to get to their final destinations, including Chicago.

Why are migrants coming to the U.S.?

In recent years, record numbers of people are trekking from South America to the United States  across a dangerous jungle known as the Darien Gap.

Soledad Alvarez Velasco, a social anthropologist and human geographer at the University of Illinois at Chicago, said the number of people traversing to the U.S. continues to grow, due mainly to unprecedented levels of unemployment following the pandemic, crime and climate change.

Its a new situation in terms of migration. Its not a war, but its a forced displacement, she said.

Laura Cruz-Acosta, strategic communications director for the city of El Paso, Texas, one of the largest border cities in the nation, said El Paso experienced two surges of Venezuelan migrants at the beginning of this year and last. What distinguishes Venezuelan migrants from other refugees, she said, is their lack of resources and often their absence of familial ties in the United States.

Though migrants come from other Central and South American countries, most migrants arriving in Chicago are from Venezuela  a country that used to have a vibrant economy, according to Michelle Ellner, Latin America campaign coordinator of the nonprofit CODEPINK.

Venezuelans are not used to migrating. Theyre used to, on the contrary, receiving people, she said.

Experts point to Venezuelas plunging oil prices and the leadership of far-left President Nicolas Maduro as reasons for the mass migration of 7.3 million people, the second-largest internal displacement crisis in the world. After Maduro took office in 2013 and Venezuelas economy declined sharply shortly thereafter, citizens became more reliant on welfare assistance from the government like monthly food handouts.

Migrants who have arrived in Chicago say they couldnt make more than $25 a week in their country of origin. Many Venezuelans have fled to surrounding countries, but thousands make their way to the United States, seeking economic opportunities.

Maduros social programs  funded in the past by oil revenues  have been cut by unilateral sanctions by the United States over nearly two decades, according to a report by United Nations Special Rapporteur Alena Douhan. The U.S. imposed harsh sanctions on Venezuela following Maduros 2018 reelection, which many Western governments didnt regard as legitimate.

The United States in October 2023 agreed to ease some sanctions on Venezuela, which some hope will stabilize the country and the economy. But the series of harsh sanctions have led to a devastating effect on social programs serving the entire population, said Adrienne Pine, an anthropologist and professor at California Institute of Integral Studies.

If you look at the statistics themselves, it becomes abundantly clear that Venezuela only starts to be a net out-migration country in the year following the implementation of the sanctions, Pine said.

Why are migrants coming to Chicago?

Migrants are people who have left their countries of origin by choice in search of a better opportunity, while immigrants are people who leave a country with the intention of taking up permanent residence. Most migrants arriving in Chicago are asylum-seekers, or people in search of protection due to dangers in their home country.

The U.S. government currently allows up to 30,000 qualifying individuals per month  from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela  to come to the United States for a period of two years.

Some migrants arrive illegally, crossing between border entry points. Migrants who arrive legally  by scheduling an appointment through an official mobile application used by Customs and Border Protection to inspect and document arrivals and departures in the United States  enter shelter systems in border cities. They often have little knowledge about where they are or where they should go.

Those who can will connect with family in the United States, but many decide to relocate to cities in the U.S. because of social media or by word-of-mouth from people who have already arrived. Government-funded shelters, faith-based groups or nonprofit organizations in border cities will often help them arrange and plan transportation to their destinations.

Many arriving in Chicago say they came because they heard it was easier to work here and people were receiving benefits and shelter space.

Migrants arent just coming to Chicago on chartered buses. Theyre also being sent on sponsored tickets from Denver and planes by Catholic Charities in San Antonio, while some arrive to the city after pooling their own resources, hearing Chicago is friendlier than other cities.

What happened in the early days of the crisis?

In late August 2022, after learning that the first bus was about to arrive, then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot promised to find shelter for and take care of incoming migrants. But no one could have predicted just how much migrants would strain Chicagos infrastructure and resources.

At various times over the first year, the crisis led to conflict between the city and state about lack of funding. There have been repeated calls for more federal resources.

In the first days of busing, facing steadily increasing numbers of migrants, Chicago had trouble finding workers to staff city-run shelters, especially for overnight shifts. Lightfoot immediately piggybacked off a contract the state signed during the COVID-19 pandemic with an out-of-state company called Favorite Staffing.

And as numbers of migrants climbed, the city opened more shelters  some in historically disinvested neighborhoods, raising pushback from residents. Though the number of migrants arriving in Chicago slowed through the winter, in January 2023 the first migrants began to sleep on the floors at police stations as city shelters had run out of space.

What is Mayor Brandon Johnson doing?

Mayor Brandon Johnson was sworn into office in May 2023 and inherited a quickly thrown-together shelter system about to experience another surge. The city was facing another large increase in migrants, many staying in police stations waiting for shelter placement.

Though migrants have come in waves over the first year, numbers of migrants have increased substantially in Chicago throughout 2023  with Gov. Abbott threatening to send 20 to 25 buses a day in October 2023 and new shelters popping up around the city almost weekly.

Johnsons administration immediately extended the citys contract with the vendor Favorite Staffing.

A recent Tribune investigation into the company revealed its high price and overworked staff, and the current administration said it hoped to move away from the expensive contract and hire locally. But on Oct. 23, 2023, Johnsons administration renewed the controversial contract and signed a $40 million extension through October 2024.

The city estimates that costs associated with migrants since August 2022 could reach above $360 million by the end of 2023.

Meanwhile, mutual aid networks have stepped in to help feed, clothe and provide resources to migrants staying at police stations.

Faith-based groups are also pooling their resources. But no volunteers are currently allowed inside city-run shelters, and questions remain about what will happen as winter approaches and thousands of migrants with no place to go are now sleeping outside.

Johnsons 2024 budget includes only $150 million in funding for migrants, less than half of what likely will have been spent on migrant assistance over the past year. And with colder months ahead, the mayor is moving forward with plans to put up winterized base camps across the city under a nearly $30 million contract with GardaWorld Federal Services and its subsidiary Aegis Defense Services.

The city hasnt provided concrete details on those plans.

What is temporary protected status, and why is it important?

Almost all migrants who have come to Chicago over the past year have one goal  to work. But many arent legally able to.

So they scrounge for what they can find, trusting strangers who pick them up from police stations and shelters to bring them to construction sites where they spend their days painting or roofing.

In late September 2023, in response to pressure from officials in Chicago and elsewhere, the Biden administration allowed nearly 500,000 Venezuelans to be able to apply for temporary work permits, which in theory will help migrants be self-sufficient and move out of shelters.

And while many immigration advocates cheered the decision, those working with migrants on the ground pointed out some serious obstacles.

Yanira Arias, national campaigns manager for Alianza Americas, a Chicago-based transnational organization rooted in Latino immigrant communities in the United States, said temporary protected status applications, which migrants must fill out to apply for the work permits, are long and expensive. Temporary status allows migrants with unsafe conditions in their countries of origin to reside and work legally in the United States.

But just one application asks for pages of documentation. In addition to filling out the temporary protected status application, a work authorization application for an adult costs more than $400. Migrants need to visit a local immigration field office to provide biometrics, which costs another $85.

Migrants who cant afford the application can request a fee waiver, and some organizations have initiatives that help provide funding for migrants who demonstrate they cant pay the hefty fees.

The next step for community-based organization is to figure out how to make sure everyone can access a work permit. This is the hope of many Venezuelans in Chicago. They want to work. They want to have a permit to work, Arias said.

Where does Chicago stand now?

In early October, President Biden announced he would resume deportation flights to Venezuela. The federal government had not been deporting people to Venezuela because of severed ties with the South American countrys government.

The first deportation flight from Texas to Caracas, the capital city of Venezuela, happened about two weeks later. The flights will prioritize criminals or people who just came across the border illegally. They will also be for Venezuelans who lost their asylum bids and were given final removal orders.

State and local officials say it is too early to tell how the deportation flights will affect the migrant population in Chicago and Illinois.

El Paso Communications Director Laura Cruz-Acosta said she has seen a decline in migrants crossing at the border since that federal policy was passed. But there are still thousands of migrants just on the other side of the border waiting to cross, said Beatriz Ponce de Leon, Chicagos deputy mayor of immigrant, migrant and refugee rights, on a phone call with the Tribune from a trip to El Paso with a delegation from Mayor Johnsons team.

Its a very temporary law. We dont know when numbers will start growing again, she said.

Meanwhile, in Chicago, social services are buckling under increasing numbers of migrants.

Hundreds of migrants from Venezuela line up outside the Illinois Department of Human Services office in Sauganash most weekdays, hoping to be seen by the program serving foreign-born victims of trafficking, torture, or other serious crimes, known as the VTTC. The program provides migrants access to food, cash and medical benefits, but state officials have told the Tribune it wasnt meant for this many people.

The Resurrection Project, a nonprofit organization in Pilsen that helps defend immigrant rights, has the same staff they did before numbers of migrants increased.

Theres now a lot of people who are interested in applying for or need to apply for immigration benefits, on top of all of the other people who already live here who need legal assistance, said Katherine Greenslade, director of the immigrant justice legal clinic at The Resurrection Project.

Greenslade said the immigration process is especially difficult for migrants who live in temporary shelters and dont have a permanent address to receive follow-up documents.

Keith South, immigration attorney and founder of Southam Law LLC, said the asylum process can take years. It is so confusing and bureaucratic that some migrants avoid applying for asylum altogether.

And so one thing Im seeing with a lot of these Venezuelan migrants is theyre not touching the whole process at all, Southam said. And theres so many of them that theres no way to enforce it.

The city has pointed to resettlement as their long-term solution to addressing the crisis, with a government assistance program covering up to six months of housing costs for migrants staying in city-run shelters. But Chicago has resettled just over 5,500 migrants since December, and more than three times that amount have arrived since last year.

How can Chicagoans help?

Karina Ayala-Bermejo, president and CEO of Instituto del Progreso Latino, said the nonprofit is asking Chicagoans for drop-off donations of new or unused clothes and essential items in front of their building, 2520 S. Western Ave. She suggested residents can also donate to the organizations Rapid Response Wish List on Amazon or on its website.

New Life Centers, which helps families move into their new apartments with money from the state, is accepting gently used furniture to the Chicago Furniture Bank. Furniture can be dropped off at the bank, 4801 S. Whipple St., or arrangements can be made for furniture to be picked up.

Cradles to Crayons Chicago is also partnering with New Life Centers to provide clothing and essential items to new arrivals. There are multiple drop-off locations around the city.

One Warm Coat is leading drives to collect gently worn coats and outerwear  hats, earmuffs, gloves, mittens, scarfs  to migrant sleeping outside in the winter. President and CEO of One Warm Coat Beth Amodio encourages people to register to hold their own coat drive at their workplace, place of worship, neighborhood school and more, or provide a monetary donation.

To support the Greater Chicago Food Depositorys efforts to provide meals at shelters, people can also donate to their food bank.

There are a number of mutual aid organizations listed on the citys website, for those who want to be more directly involved in volunteer efforts. Ayala-Bermejo said there is an especially high need for people who can provide health care support.

All of us need to be ready to go to maximize our coordination. All of us can figure out a way to be a part of the solution to this, she said.

nsalzman@chiagotribune.com


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Roughly three weeks after Kevin McCarthys removal as speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives sparked a chaotic search for a replacement, Louisiana Representative Mike Johnson finally assumed the gavel on Wednesday.

The Republican-controlled House voted, 220-208, to make the 51-year-old Johnsonfull name James Michael Johnsonthe 56th speaker in history. Johnson called the appointment the honor of a lifetime in a statement posted to social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. As Speaker, I will ensure the House delivers results and inspires change for the American people. We will restore trust in this body, he wrote.

However, Johnson has little time to celebrate his victory. He will now play a key role as Congress tries to avoid a government shutdown on November 18 by agreeing on a new funding bill. With these important negotiations looming, heres what you need to know about Johnson as he assumes his high-profile title.

Subscribe to our free newsletter to keep a pulse on todays political leaders.

Johnson has a law degree from Louisiana State University

Johnson, born January 30, 1972, earned a bachelors degree in business administration from Louisiana State University in 1995. Three years later, he earned his juris doctor from the schools Paul M. Hebert Law Center.



In addition to his background as a lawyer, Johnson has also served as a professor for Liberty University in the past five years. He began his political career in the Louisiana state legislature in 2015.

Johnson was elected to the House in 2016

Getty Images

Johnson ran for the U.S. House seat representing Louisianas 4th Congressional District in 2016 and easily defeated Democratic candidate Marshall Jones with 65 percent of the vote. He assumed office in January 2017 and has since won three additional terms.

According to CNN, Johnson serves on the Judiciary Committee and the Armed Services Committee. He is also the vice chairman of the Republican House Conference and holds an assistant leadership role as GOP deputy whip.

Hes a devout Christian

Johnson is a proud evangelical Christian. I dont believe there are any coincidences, he said after Wednesdays vote. I believe that God has ordained and allowed each one of us to be brought here for this specific moment in this time. This is my belief.

His religious views are reflected in his family life and political stances. He and his wife, Kelly, wed in 1999 under a covenant marriage. This means that, under Louisiana law, premarital counseling and additional counseling is required before a couple can be granted a divorce. They have four children together.

According to The New York Times, Johnson once called homosexuality inherently unnatural. In 2015, he gained prominence when he proposed a Louisiana bill that would have prevented adverse treatment by the State of any person or entity on the basis of the views they may hold with regard to marriage. Critics felt it was an attempt to legalize discrimination against married gay couples.

In Congress, Johnson has voted for a national abortion ban. He has an A-plus rating from the anti-abortion group Susan B. Anthony Pro Life America.

Johnson is a talk radio host and podcaster

Johnsons controversial 2015 marriage bill failed, but the media attention surrounding it caught the eye of Tony Perkins, the president of the Family Research Council evangelical activist group.

According to Politico, Perkinsa controversial figure who has argued that natural disasters are a form of divine punishment for homosexualitybegan inviting Johnson to serve as a guest host on his national radio show, Washington Watch, in 2015. The lawmaker was apparently a good fit, as Johnson has continued to appear on the show in the years since.

Johnson and his wife also started their own podcast called Truth Be Told with Mike and Kelly Johnson in 2022. The couple promised to review current events through the lens of eternal truth.

He tried to overturn the 2020 election results

Getty Images

Johnson is a ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump and made multiple attempts to swing the results of the 2020 election following Trumps loss to Joe Biden.

Johnson and 125 other House Republicans signed a U.S. Supreme Court amicus brief in a Texas lawsuit arguing that Bidens victories in the battleground states of Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin were invalid because election officials changed voting procedures without first seeking legislative approval.

Then after the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021, Johnson voted against certifying Bidens victory in two states.

Following his appointment Wednesday, Johnson declined to comment on these efforts. Were not talking about any issues today. My position is very well-known, he told The Washington Post.

Hes the least experienced speaker in 140 years

Johnson path to the speakership was quickhistorically so, in fact.

According to Axios, Johnson only served 6.81 years in the House prior to his appointment on Wednesday. Thats one of the shortest tenures ever before assuming control of the House gavel, second only to John G. Carlisles 6.75 years prior to the start of his speakership in December 1883.

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The nation is scrambling to learn more about Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) since House Republicans catapulted him to national prominence Wednesday with his election to an office two heartbeats from the presidency.

The conservative is a bit of an enigma, even to fellow lawmakers. Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), the No. 3 Republican, said he didnt know Johnson when asked Wednesday. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) told a CNN reporter that she would Google him.

Reporters at The Hill have been backgrounding the new Speaker and examining what the House will look like under his leadership. Heres what theyve learned.

Start with the basics: Who is Mike Johnson?

He had a meteoric rise to the Speakers chair. Heres how he won.

What challenges will he face as Speaker? Here are five, to start.

His rise has put a spotlight on his role in denying the 2020 election.

One of his first tasks will be figuring out how to handle a potential government shutdown.

The White House has asked Congress to authorize $105 billion in aid to help Ukraine and Israel. Where does Johnson stand on that? Here is what hes said in the past. On Thursday night, he said hed like to see the aid package split.

Johnson is staunchly against abortion, and Democrats have seized on that. As chair of the conservative Republican Study Commission, he has backed health care proposals that the GOP has espoused for years, including a repeal of the Affordable Care Act.

His congressional district includes Shreveport, a onetime hub of the oil industry. And Johnson is on the record as a strong proponent of fossil fuels and a skeptic of climate change.

In 2020, Johnson emerged as a key player in former President Trumps efforts to overturn the results of the presidential election. President Biden, though, said he is not concerned about what may happen in 2024, given that background.

In the Speaker race, Johnson had Trumps backing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoisky has ceded control of the 1+1 Media conglomerate, a major player in the countrys media landscape, to a holding company that allegedly represents the companys employees, 1+1 Media reported on Oct. 26.

As a result, corporate control of all 1+1 Media properties will now be administered by the companys current CEO, Yaroslav Pakholchuk.

Kolomoiskys decision to transfer control of the 1+1 Media conglomerate was formally communicated to both the groups collective and the National Council for Television and Radio Broadcasting. In a statement, Kolomoisky, who is currently in Ukrainian custody pending charges of fraud and money laundering, specified that Pakholchuk will act on behalf of the company and at the request of the labor collective.

Read also:

The official document outlining the transfer of corporate rights grants the executive the authority to make necessary decisions on behalf of the company. However, it does come with a specific restriction: Pakholchuk cannot alienate or encumber Kolomoiskys corporate rights, nor receive dividends.

The transfer of corporate rights to management will not lead to a change in the ultimate beneficial owner of the 1+1 Media group; decisive influence (control) remains with Ihor Kolomoisky, 1+1 stated.

Read also:

The decision will be valid for five years. The group explained this as a necessity to protect and preserve freedom of speech and due to Kolomoiskys current inability to fully execute his duties.

The Shevchenkivskyi District Court in Kyiv placed Kolomoisky into pre-trial detention on Sept. 2, sending him into custody for 60 days in Dnipro, with the possibility of posting bail of over UAH 509 million ($14 million). Kolomoisky refused to pay the bail amount.

Later, bail was raised to UAH 3.8 billion ($104 million). On Oct. 24, the court made the decision to keep Kolomoisky in custody.

Read also: $27.3 million in alleged fraud: Kolomoisky s case

No longer immune

Ukraines SBU security service, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU), and the Prosecutor Generals Office have charged Kolomoisky under Articles 190 and 209 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code  laundering funds obtained through fraudulent means.

The SBU alleges that between 2013 and 2020, Kolomoisky engaged in the laundering of over half a billion hryvnias ($13.5 million) by routing funds abroad through the infrastructure of banks under his control.

Two more charges were brought against Kolomoisky on Sept. 7 and 15, involving the embezzlement of over UAH 9.2 billion ($2.5 billion) from PrivatBank, and the illegal acquisition of UAH 5.8 billion ($160 million).

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin could abandon an independent policy in the Middle East due to dependence on Iran, Abbas Gallyamov believes

Putin is looking at several events in the future.

How will the war in Israel will affect support for Ukraine? I'll start with whether a ground operation will be launched in Gaza, because there is a risk of a major war. Simply put, three fundamental factors can influence the decision on a ground operation in Gaza. Whether there will be one, and if so, what kind of operation, scale, timing, etc.

The first factor to keep in mind is Israel's preparation and ability to make this operation successful. This means gaining full control with minimal losses.

The second issue, which is moral, human, and emotional, is returning the hostages. If this operation begins and some of them are executed, especially on live TV (and we live in a media world), it will break the hearts and minds of many people. It's not just the American hostages.

Read also: What does the war in Israel change for Ukraine

Third, it is a strategy. That is, Israel can enter Gaza. It has the capacity to do so. The question is how to get out. Israel was already in Gaza before 2005. Then it left. So what? Hamas won the elections with broad support and won the ensuing internal conflict in Gaza. I don't see any sane, consistent strategy now that would give Israel a sustainable perspective in a ground operation.

The last thing is whether the Middle East, not only the Middle East, will explode, whether Hezbollah will join, Iran, or maybe someone else.

That is, the main players' strategy now is to avoid escalation. They are doing this almost around the clock. This changes the focus of attention away from Ukraine, but does not make us less critical. It does not mean that support will be reduced. It's just a redistribution of attention and an understanding that several different world events require attention. In his speech last week, Biden just linked Ukraine and Israel directly. He linked the logic that "we will defend democracies, we do not abandon our own, no matter what kind of democracies they are."

In his speech last week, Biden just linked Ukraine and Israel directly

This is a complicated and controversial issue. Look at how many people are on the streets of Germany, London, and Paris in support of Palestine. This raises many, many questions. Against the backdrop of this difficult discussion about Israel, support for Ukraine is just as controversial.

But the issue of changing the focus, both media and political, is, of course, very difficult for us, and there are many risks associated with the fact that key players and decision-makers will still be primarily engaged in the Middle East. The way out of this is straightforward. Look back to Biden's speech.

Reduce everything into one logic of the struggle of democracy against autocracy. Reduce everything to one logic and one support package, as Biden suggested. However, there are also risks for us. I hope a Chinese representative will attend the meeting in Malta on the peace formula. In addition to Ukraine and Israel, there is help for Taiwan in this package. Taiwan is also perceived by the United States as a democracy, unlike China. Just imagine what they think in Beijing and what strategies they are building. So, it will be very, very difficult to assemble this mosaic.

We have more than just the Middle East problem. We also have the issue of the impending Taiwanese elections. There will be presidential elections in January. This may be a point of no return for the Chinese leadership in the sense that they can politically influence the "evolutionary" return of Taiwan. So, there are a lot of risks that need to be taken into account. There is no need to avoid it. Yes, there are risks and challenges, but this does not mean there is a fundamental threat that Ukraine will be forgotten.

When all these people come out to rallies in support of the Palestinian people, it does not mean support for Hamas. Palestinians, in general, do not identify with Hamas. In the West Bank, there are entirely different political structures. There is even a conspiracy theory that when Hamas was born, the Israelis did not object to it because they wanted to create a counterweight to the Palestine Liberation Organization. They may have even had a hand in it. I heard this from many people in Israel, the United States, and Europe. So, in fact, many people generally understand the Palestinians and do not identify them with Hamas. Demonstrations are definitely not support for Hamas. Many people condemn Hamas's actions in terms of murder and crimes against civilians.

The Kremlin is benefiting from creating disorder in the West. Both Putin and the Russian leadership despise the West. They consider it decadent and incapable of fighting for the future. Moscow seemed not to believe that the West would actually support Ukraine. At first, they thought there would be no sanctions, then there would be no arms supplies, and then they thought the logic of limiting the price of Russian oil and Russian oil products would collapse. Yes, it all works far from perfectly, and we know this very well, but it works. This is a fundamental challenge for the Kremlin.

Today, Putin is looking at several events in the future. First, there are his elections. He is very focused on this. He wants to recreate himself within the regime. Many things are happening now on the frontlines, including Russia's frantic attacks on Avdiivka. This is a logic that also reflects Russian domestic policy. Putin would love to come somewhere in Donetsk, where he hasn't been, and say: I did something here. The second factor Putin is looking at is the American elections.

Read also: Major Biden speech, UN war crimes report, devastating strike in Kharkiv Oblast

So these are key points that are important for him in the future. But the more disorder there is in the West, the weaker the West is, according to the Kremlin, the more it is exhausted. Therefore, any such protests, of course, play into the hands of the Kremlin. As for whether they will lead to a decrease in support for Ukraine, I have yet to see it. I see reasonably stable support in critical European societies, Germany, Spain, and France. The only problem is that support and sympathy do not necessarily translate into active action. Our task is not just to keep this sympathy, which is there and will not be given to Putin. Our problem is that this sympathy should not be passive. We need a proactive position. The West, especially Europe, has never been good at this. Therefore, making them proactive is the number one challenge for us in the coming months.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
 Flash

Palestinians walk amid the rubble of destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said Wednesday that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached an unprecedented point.

The UN Agency for Palestine Refugees, or UNRWA, which is by far the largest humanitarian provider in Gaza, warned that the agency will be forced to halt all operations by Wednesday night unless fuel is allowed into Gaza immediately.

Hospitals are shutting down as they lack fuel, water, medical supplies and personnel. Fuel is being severely rationed for a select number of critical facilities. The backup generators are not designed for continuous operation and could break, said OCHA.

UN personnel visited hospitals on Tuesday. In one hospital, they noted hundreds of wounded men, women and children. Many of them were unconscious, with open wounds - lying on beds, stretchers and on the floor - with limited medical attendance. In the yard, there was a tent with tens of dead bodies, including children. Many of the dead are kept there because the morgues are full, it said.

A Palestinian boy walks amid the rubble of destroyed buildings after Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

Food stocks are running out. The World Food Programme estimates that current supplies of essential food in Gaza are sufficient for about 12 days. However, at shops, the available stock is expected to last for only five days, said OCHA.

People are resorting to drinking well water, which is extremely high in salt and poses immediate health risks. Health partners have also detected cases of chickenpox, scabies and diarrhea due to poor sanitation conditions and consumption of water from unsafe sources, it said.

The number of internally displaced people is now estimated at more than 1.4 million, including nearly 590,000 people sheltering in UNRWA-designated shelters. More than 15 percent of the displaced are estimated to have disabilities, yet most shelters are not adequately equipped for their needs, it said.

Local authorities report that more than 40 percent of all housing units in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed or damaged, said OCHA.
Russia has adapted to living with sanctions, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told the press, per TASS.

Peskov said Russia has been living with sanctions for decades and isn't afraid of more restrictions.

The IMF expects Russia's GDP to grow 2.2% on-year in 2023 as Moscow continues to spend on the war in Ukraine.

It's been 20 months since the West and its allies started slapping a barrage of sanctions against Russia for invading Ukraine  but the Kremlin doesn't seem too shaken up about the restrictions.

"Russia has been living under a sanctions regime for quite a long time, for decades, so we have sufficiently adapted to it," Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin's spokesperson, told reporters on Tuesday, per TASS state news agency's English-language report.

Peskov did not elaborate on the previous sanctions, but Russians have been under trade restrictions even back when the country was part of the Soviet Union.

And Peskov appears unfazed about the prospect of further sanctions, too.

"Of course, such time horizons as five years and further do not scare us at all. It is quite easy to predict that attempts to hold our economy back will continue," Peskov added.

Peskov's comments shed light on official thinking and strategy in Russia's economy following 11 rounds of hard-hitting sanctions from the European Union and wave after wave of US restrictions aimed at squeezing the country's war chest.

Russia has been sanction-proofing itself since 2014, after being hit with a raft of trade restrictions for illegally annexing Crimea from Ukraine. Russia's measures to shield itself from sanctions include building up its reserves, stashing up gold, weaning itself off foreign capital, and paying down debt.

And over the past year, Russia has been selling energy products to alternative markets and has forced certain foreign businesses to continue operating in the country by making it difficult for them to exit the market.

Beyond regular businesses, the Kremlin's wartime spending has been a key contributor to Russia's economy  and that spending is driving an economic boom.

Russia's GDP grew by 4.9% in the second quarter of this year, topping most forecasts, per Bloomberg. The reading is also the economy's best showing since the last quarter of 2021.

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin's administration has raised pensions, salaries, and other benefits for people who are not well-off and subsidized mortgages since the war started.

While Russia's economy appears to be chugging along, the International Monetary Fund, or IMF, is muted about the country's prospects. The IMF expects Russia's GDP to grow 2.2% this year from a year ago  reversing a 2.1% decline in 2022.

The country's longer-term outlook is "dim" because sanctions would hurt productive capacity and growth in the medium term, said Alfred Kammer, the IMF's European Director, at a press conference earlier this month.

The Kremlin did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Deliberation over a proposal to invest state money in clinical research of a psychedelic drug as a potential treatment for opioid addiction is intensifying.

After the Kentucky Opioid Abatement Advisory Commission heard from dozens of ibogaine proponents at two public hearings over the summer, commission members heard for the first time from opponents last week, who warned of ibogaines potentially harmful impacts on the heart  a reality that may compromise the U.S. Food and Drug Administrations willingness to give an initial green light for clinical trials.

My opinion is ibogaine is not safe, its efficacy is unproven, and the cost to Kentucky would be unsupportable, said Dr. Mark Haigney. Hes a professor of Medicine and Pharmacology and director of Cardiology and Military Cardiovascular Outcomes Research at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Maryland.

Commission Chair Bryan Hubbard first floated the idea of investing $42 million from Kentuckys share of opioid lawsuit settlement money  a pot whose total sum verges on $1 billion  into clinical research of ibogaine as an opioid use disorder therapeutic in late May.

An alkaloid derived from the root bark of an iboga shrub native to West Central Africa, ibogaine is an illicit hallucinogenic Schedule 1 drug in the U.S. The nations first clinical trial for ibogaine was approved in 1993, but after the National Institute on Drug Abuse revoked its funding to test the drug on humans, the plug was pulled on the trials in 1995.

Hubbard and his allies plan is grand and would be historic: Cultivate public and private partnerships to match the commissions share of $42 million and, over the next six years, begin the process of testing ibogaines efficacy on people .

Their hope: Eventually earning full approval from the FDA to distribute the psychedelic widely as another means of treating opioid dependency. Currently there are three primarily used FDA-approved drugs used to treat opioid use disorder: naltrexone, methadone and buprenorphine, or Suboxone. Each has a slightly different effect on the brain, but all work to suppress withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Proposed as an alternative to already on-the-market drugs to treat substance use, Hubbards proposal drew near-immediate resistance from some commission members and addiction researchers, partly because of the risks ibogaine poses to cardiac activity, partly because of how the proposal was introduced.

Hubbard unveiled his proposal publicly at a May 2023 event attended by Republican Attorney General Daniel Cameron, before it was formally presented to the commission. Cameron lauded ibogaines potential and vowed to help Kentucky explore a new approach to help curb opioid use.

The decision whether to invest Kentuckys initial lawsuit settlement funds ultimately falls to commission members, whove hosted three public hearings on Hubbards proposal since July. The first two featured dozens of ibogaine proponents, including people whove personally taken ibogaine to treat their opioid addiction and attested to its benefits, and others that have researched the psychedelics potential to treat not only addiction, but post-traumatic stress disorder.

Nearly all of the individuals who spoke were invited to speak by Hubbard, himself, or other ibogaine proponents. Before the Oct. 17 hearing, the only people who addressed the commission were in favor of ibogaine.

Dr. Patricia Freeman, a commission member and professor in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Kentucky, introduced two individuals who raised concerns about ibogaine at the hearing.

Freeman, the commissions newest member, filled a vacancy left by Dr. Sharon Walsh, who resigned from the commission in the summer. Walsh is the director of UKs Center on Drug and Alcohol Research. Both Freeman and Walsh are involved in the $87 million National Institutes of Health grant-funded HEALing Communities Study.

The goal of the grant is to build a model with community partners to reduce opioid overdoses by 40% in 16 Kentucky counties using evidence-based methods. If successful, that model would be applied to the rest of the state.

As the Herald-Leader has previously reported, its ibogaines impact on cardiac activity that gives some health care providers and addiction researchers, including Walsh, pause.

The drug blocks the hERG potassium channels in the heart, which help to regulate a heartbeat, and increases whats called a QT interval  essentially the time it takes for a heart to relax between beats.

Drug-induced prolongation of a heartbeat in this way can cause an irregular heartbeat (an arrhythmia), even death. Ibogaine has caused documented cases of both, according to medical literature.

While there are currently FDA-approved drugs to help curb opioid misuse, You have to take them every day, often for life, said Haigney, who called himself an expert in drug-induced sudden death.

Many people whove addressed the commission and personally taken ibogaine have taken only one dose.

It does have a certain attractiveness to think if you could give a single dose of a drug, that could give a lifetime cure, he said. But this would be attractive only if the drug is safe in the immediate term, effective in the long term, FDA approved and affordable for the huge number of Kentuckians with opioid use disorder.

Bringing a new drug through the FDA approval process and to market is a protracted and expensive process, estimated to cost close to $2 billion, according to one recent study.

The finding of a QT interval prolongation is the most common reason for removal of a drug from further development by the FDA, Haigney said. Ibogaine is associated with an unprecedented degree of cardiac toxicity, it prolongs the QT interval 20-times more than buprenorphine and 20-times above the FDA threshold.

Administering a drug with this potential side effect can be done safely in a hospital setting with specialized providers standing by, but it would be incredibly resource demanding, he said.

Robert Walsh, a retired chief of Regulatory Affairs Branch in the Division of Therapeutics and Medical Consequences at the National Institute on Drug Abuse, enumerated many of the technical challenges that would likely surface during clinical trials using ibogaine, repeating several of the points made by Haigney.

For example, the health risks associated with ibogaine could limit the potential patient pool, or cause the trials to last longer, increasing the overall cost, he said. Walsh worked for NIDA when the FDA approved the first clinical trial of ibogaine in the early 1990s.

Beyond the cost of bringing a drug to market, Walsh and Haigney said the known risks would mean a greater use of health care resources in order to monitor trial participants for adverse cardiac events. And seeing as Kentucky already has a critical nursing shortage, Haigney said, adding to this strain would only further exacerbate that crisis.

This is a treatment for wealthy individuals who can pay for hospitalization with intensive monitoring and is not going to help the 2.7 million Kentuckians who struggle with opioid dependency, Haigney said.

Not everyone agreed.

Ibogaine does include documented risks, most of the speakers at the hearing agreed. But the most pressing and realistic risk facing Kentuckians living with opioid addiction is the threat of overdosing on a daily basis.

Its because of the acuteness of this crisis that Rick Doblin, executive director at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, said would perhaps push the FDA would look at this in terms of a risk-benefit analysis.

I think, because its such a national crisis, the FDA is interested in trying to expedite the national research, Doblin said.

Commission member Vic Brown said the first clinical trials using ibogaine ended before the full brunt of the opioid crisis began choking the nation.

Now, 20 years later, we are still living with (roughly) 100,000 folks a year dying of overdose deaths, Brown said.

You mentioned that theres other drugs available to combat that use, but obviously something more is needed if were still losing 100,000 individuals a year, he continued. So, wouldnt you think that it would be proper to continue the study of (ibogaine)?

Walsh didnt say no.

To be honest, I think all (treatments) should be examined, Walsh said. But I do think, too, we have to move cautiously. When we know about certain side effects or risks for patients, that its important as were developing that drug we keep a very close handle on.

Walsh said his main concern is that, when there are known risks with a drug like ibogaine, developing that drug for human use is likely to be more expensive, because it requires more studies and measures to be taken.

That doesnt mean it cant happen, Walsh said. But the thinking behind a potential treatment like this should be, what might have the greatest chance of success (and) reach most of your patients in the quickest time possible.

The commission does not have a date set to take a final vote on the proposal. Its next regularly scheduled meeting will be held Nov. 15.
The Kentucky Supreme Court on Thursday struck down a new state law that allowed the attorney general to intervene in constitutional challenges against state agencies and have them moved from Franklin Circuit Court  often an unpopular venue for Republican lawmakers  to another courthouse somewhere in the state.

Senate Bill 126 is itself unconstitutional because it violates the separation of powers, allowing the legislative branch to instruct the judicial branch on how to handle its case assignments, Chief Justice Laurance VanMeter of Lexington wrote for the courts 6-to-1 majority.

When there is due cause, VanMeter wrote, there are procedures for people to request a judge to recuse himself from a case or allow a case to be transferred to a more neutral venue.

But the new law allows parties in constitutional challenges against the state to have their case be randomly assigned elsewhere, outside of the capital city of Frankfort, in an arbitrary search for a potentially friendlier judge, he wrote.

It operates to vest a certain class of litigants with the unfettered right to forum shop, without having to show any bias on the part of the presiding judge or just cause for removal, VanMeter wrote.

Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear raised similar concerns when he vetoed the Senate bill on March 24, calling it a legislative power grab to control Kentucky courts. But the Republican super-majorities in the House and Senate easily overrode Beshears veto.

In a dissenting opinion, Justice Robert Conley of Catlettsburg said the new law is not perfect and is somewhat awkwardly crafted, but its also legally defensible.

The General Assembly has a constitutional power to regulate venue, and in adjusting the warring interests involved in venue determinations it cannot be frozen in amber because of judicial discomfort with the unfamiliar. The General Assembly must be allowed to experiment in an area that it clearly has authority to act, Conley wrote.

Republican lawmakers long have complained about suffering unfavorable rulings in Franklin Circuit Court while battling Beshear and other Democratic politicians. They have filed legislation to bypass that court on a number of occasions.

They also unsuccessfully backed a candidate to replace one of the Franklin circuit judges last year.

In the case related to Thursdays high court ruling, Republican Attorney General Daniel Cameron asked for a change of venue to a circuit court outside of Frankfort for a lawsuit regarding gray market gambling machines. Cameron is a defendant in that case.

The legislature last winter passed a bill to ban the machines from gas stations, bars and convenience stores across Kentucky, prompting the legal challenge by companies and organizations affected by the ban.

The case now returns to Franklin Circuit Court for further action.
Over a century after its founding, the L.L. Bean flagship store has only closed a few times.

Those closures came after presidential assassinations, executive deaths, and fires.

Now, the store has closed after a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

In 1917, L.L. Bean opened its flagship store in Freeport, Maine.

Over a century later, the store is still standing and sees more than 3 million visitors each year. It is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The only times it has ever closed are for the death of its executives, a fire, the assassination of JFK, and the pandemic.

Now, it has added one more American tragedy to the list of things that have forced it to close: a mass shooting.

The store closed out of an "abundance of caution" on Thursday, according to a statement from the company, as Maine authorities search for the man accused of killing 18 people and injuring 13 others in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday night.

Authorities have issued an arrest warrant for Robert Card, the man police suspect is the gunman. He is a firearms instructor who serves in the US Army Reserve, Insider previously reported.

The company has also closed several other locations in the area, according to their statement.

L.L. Bean has only closed its doors five additional times in its history, spokesperson Amanda Hannah told Insider.

The last time L.L. Bean closed its stores in southern Maine was because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannah told Insider. Before that, the store closed its doors for the funeral of the company's longtime president and chairman, Leon A. Gorman.

Before that, stores closed for President John F. Kennedy's funeral in 1967, the funeral of founder Leon Leonwood Bean in 1963, and the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Hannah said.

This story was updated to include a comment from an L.L. Bean spokesperson.

Read the original article on Insider
The mysterious death of the Los Angeles model Nichole Coats has been ruled accidental by the citys medical examiner.

Coats, 32, who was found dead in her luxury apartment on 10 September, died from cocaine and ethanol toxicity according to authorities. Ethanol toxicity is caused by the consumption of a large amount of alcohol.

The alarm was raised last month after her friends told the models father that they could not get hold of her, so he went over and let himself in with a spare key.

She was covered up and I went over and I said Nichole? and I touched her arm and she was just like stone, he said to KTLA at the time.

While May Stevens, the models aunt, had suspicions of foul play, authorities have found no evidence of that claim.

At the time, Coatss death was heavily reported alongside the death of another LA-based model, Maleesa Mooney, 31, who was found dead in her apartment two days after Ms Coats.

Despite this, the Los Angeles Police Department said back in September that there was no evidence linking the two cases together.

This was due to the similarities between the two cases: both models, both similar ages, both found in their apartments in LA.

LAPD said there was no evidence to link Ms Coats death to other model Maleesa Mooney (GoFundMe/Facebook)

Mooneys cause of death was determined by the Los Angeles Medical Examiner as homicidal violence, but her sister, Jourdin Pauline, told People that there have been no advances in the investigation and a suspect has not been named.

Ms Pauline also told the outlet that Mooney was two months pregnant at the time of her death.

Before the medical examiner released their ruling, her family told many news outlets that they believed that her death was suspicious.

I believe it was murder, I really do, Ms Stevens also told KTLA. One of her legs was up in the air in a kicking position. Thats not somebody who just laid in their bed and died.

Her mother also told ABC7 about her suspicions.

Im devastated that it happened to Nichole. This is horrible... its like a dream, that my daughters going to walk through the door and shes not, her mother Sharon Coats told People.

Shes gone. Im just trying to piece everything together, but I still feel that something fishy is going on.

The family of Nichole Coats held memorial services to remember her, despite at the time not knowing her cause of death (KTLA)

Coats, who was working as a beauty sales rep at the time and was an aspiring model, was due to fly to Cancun, Mexico with friends before her untimely death.

The models family held a funeral for her on 28 September, according to a GoFundMe page raising money for the service.

The fundraiser described Coats as a vibrant personality [and] was one that touched and affected everyone she crossed paths with. She is known as an amazing daughter, friend and soul.
Port Hatchineha residents who have fought for more than a year to stop the Creek Ranch development of 1,826 homes in their rural enclave have filed a petition asking a court in Bartow to overturn the Polk County Commissions decision to allow the mixed-use planned development.

A proposed entrance to the Creek Ranch housing development off Lake Hatchineha Road near Haines City and Poinciana. A group of residents have filed a petition in the 10th Circuit Court to overturn the County Commission's approval of the development.

The Oct. 17 court filing lists three residents living in or near Port Hatchineha, between the namesake lake and the proposed development.

They want the 10th Circuit Court in Bartow to overturn the commissioners decision because the decision failed to meet the essential requirement of law. They say the development is not compatible with the adjacent environmentally sensitive lands and agricultural uses.

The appeal is not against the developer but filed against Polk County as a circuit civil case and asks Circuit Court Judge Ellen S. Masters to rule on the matter.

Were not suing them for a large sum of money, said Thomas Gill, a resident and plaintiff in the case who wants the land use change reversed. Money is not our thing.

Instead, Gill who lives near the proposed subdivision wants Lake Hatchineha Road to remain fee of the volume of traffic he fears would come with such a subdivision, he said.

County Manager Bill Beasley was asked to comment on the case by email Wednesday, but by midafternoon, no response was received.

The development on more than 1,269 acres would set aside 586.5 acres for conservation near other federal- and state-managed environmentally sensitive land, which is adjacent to the headwaters of the Everglades.

The commission approved a land-use change on Sept. 19 for the subdivision, which also included the conservation land and 12.31 acres of commercial property for a possible shopping center. The large subdivision would be along Lake Hatchineha Road in the fast-growing northeast region.

The 3-1 vote came with board Chairman George Lindsey recusing himself because of a business relationship. Only Commissioner Neil Combee opposed the zoning change.

The change from the lands former land use designation, which had permitted only one housing unit per five acres, now allows single-family homes at a much greater density. Before the commissioners, the project had been narrowly approved by the Polk County Planning Commission by one vote.

Frank Miller, Thomas Gill and Robert Lamar Quinn Jr. are listed as the petitioners in the filing.

Tiger Creek Preserve Nature hotspot earns a place on Great Florida Wildlife and Birding Trail

The respondents are listed as Creek Ranch LLC and Creek Ranch Mitigation Bank LLC. State records show the managing member of Creek Ranch as Center State Development 2 LLC in Winter Haven. The incorporation papers were filed by the Creek Ranch developer Harold Reggie Baxter.

The court filing by Cape Coral attorney Ralf Brookes said in conclusion that The Mixed Use Planned Development as proposed is not compatible with the existing adjacent environmental conservation lands and agricultural uses failing to meet the definition, purpose and intent of Planned Development as defined in Chapter 10 of the Land Development Code and constitutes illegal spot zoning and the approval should be QUASHED and REVERSED by this court.

Brookes said in a phone interview Wednesday that the process for getting a ruling could take three to six months and might include oral arguments, as long as the judge finds cause to proceed. The judge must first review the filing and a transcript of the quasi-judicial proceedings in Polk County that led up to the zoning change.

He said the Creek Ranch property should be part of the Florida Wildlife Corridor, which has been publicized in books and movies and the state Legislature has provided funding for it.

"So we want to try to get this whole area acquired, and I don't think that the owner and applicant is even opposed to selling to the state if he were to get a fair market value for the property, and that process is set up so that they could," Brookes said.

This article originally appeared on The Ledger: Lake Hatchineha-area residents sue to overturn Creek Ranch development
The man accused of fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy and severely injuring his mother days after the Hamas attack was indicted by a Will County grand jury on hate crime, murder and other charges, prosecutors said Thursday.

Joseph Czuba, 71, faces three counts of first-degree murder, one count of attempted first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated battery and two counts of hate crime in connection with a knife attack that killed Wadea Al-Fayoume and left his mother, Hanaan Shahin, hospitalized.

Czuba, who was the familys landlord, was pushed to attack his Muslim tenants at their shared at his unincorporated Plainfield Township home after listening to conservative talk radio discussion of the war between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas, Will County prosecutors said during his Oct. 16 court hearing.

Judge Donald DeWilkins ordered Czuba held in custody. His next court hearing is set for Monday.

Czuba is accused of acting exceptionally brutal or heinous behavior indicative of wanton cruelty in his alleged actions toward Wadea and Shahin, per court records.

President Joe Biden mentioned Wadea by name last week during a prime-time speech where he condemned antisemitic and Islamophobic violence in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war.

Will County sheriffs deputies responded to Shahins call that her landlord was attacking her with a knife the morning of Oct. 14. Officers found Shahin severely injured and Wadea stabbed 26 times.

Shahin was hospitalized at the time of her sons funeral, which drew hundreds of people and elected officials to pay their respects.

Thousands attended a vigil to honor Wadeas life held the day after his funeral, where many condemned hateful rhetoric that allegedly pushed Czuba to attack the boy and his mother.

Federal authorities including the FBI and the Department of Justices the civil rights division are investigating the attack.

Illinois authorities are investigating other possible hate crimes and threats against Muslims that have occurred in recent weeks, including the case of a Lombard man who allegedly threatened to shoot two Muslim men outside his apartment building. A pair of Muslim schools in Bridgeview also kept students home last week after one of the institutions received a threatening letter that referenced Wadeas death.
The Los Angeles Police Department is considering changing department policy to increase random reviews of body camera recordings that dont involve arrests or the use of force, according to an email from Chief Michel Moore to his senior staff.

Moore wrote that its in our best interest to strengthen and reinforce the number of incidents involving patrol and gang officers that are reviewed roughly every 30 days, which more closely aligns with other agencies.

Additionally, I support expanding the incidents that qualify beyond those in which no enforcement action was taken, Moore said in the Oct. 19 email, a copy of which was reviewed by The Times.

Read more: Internal LAPD reports show body camera misuse more widespread than chief alleges

Moores directive comes months after revelations that members of a scandal-ridden gang unit were routinely turning off their body-worn cameras in violation of department policy. The ensuing controversy has spawned several investigations, including by the FBI, while also raising questions about whether the LAPD failed for years to develop clear policies on the camera issue despite earlier reports that they were a chronic problem.

The scope of the scandal is still unclear, but Mission Division gang unit officers have been accused of making illegal stops and theft, while failing to document some of their encounters with the public. The department is seeking to fire at least two of the involved officers, who are also facing criminal charges.

Moore said he is working on an agreement with the Los Angeles Police Protective League, the union that represents rank-and-file officers, to activate a feature that would allow the department to recover up to 18 hours of footage.

Such a time frame far exceeds the so-called buffer built into the current cameras. Now, when body cameras are powered on, they are constantly recording a two-minute loop that is saved when officers activate their cameras. This allows officers to capture footage without audio of what occurred in the two minutes before they activate their cameras, a necessary feature, department officials say, given that some uses of force occur in situations that develop quickly.

This, Moore wrote, could help shed light on a serious incident such as an officer being seriously wounded or killed with little to no information for the Department to pursue.

Im interested in activating that feature under a very tight set of controls, he wrote, saying it could allow investigators to "identify key" evidence.

While the feature could theoretically be turned on today, it would require a sign off from the Protective League, which negotiated the current two-minute buffer.

Read more: LAPD seeks to fire 2 officers in gang unit suspected of turning off body cameras

These revisions are a priority. Please begin immediately and I look forward to regular updates, Moore wrote in the email to senior staff. He asked Liz Rhodes, the LAPD's constitutional policing director, to connect with police union president Craig Lally what we are finding with other agencies access, inspection, audits and review practices in regards to BWV [body-worn video] captures.

The League said it negotiated changes to camera guidelines in its latest contract, approved in August, which also provides raises and bonuses for the rank-and-file. The significant changes are intended to protect the men and women who have been subjected to the morale-buster, gotcha-era of the Body Camera, union board member Debbie Thomas wrote in a recent edition of the Leagues monthly magazine, Thin Blue Line.

Under the new contract, the department cannot pursue a complaint against an officer for minor misconduct, such as the use of profanity, discovered during a body camera audit unless the progressive discipline model has been exhausted, Thomas wrote.

The same goes for lesser wrongdoing that is discovered during the inspection of video in connection to any investigation related to a pursuit, civilian complaint or use-of-force incident, she wrote.

The days of you using profanity during a tactical situation or, God forbid, forgetting to put on your seat belt for 1.5 seconds and somehow ending up with a complaint, now have guidelines that command SHALL follow, Thomas wrote.

Moore said in his staff email that the information technology bureau is in the midst of a broader modernization of the departments computer systems and is working closely with camera manufacturer Axion to understand what else can be done to improve the accountability of ensuring officers are using BWV as required.

In 2019, the department also announced it was stepping up random body camera audits as part of an effort to investigate complaints of biased policing during traffic and pedestrian stops.

Even as the use of the devices expanded across the country, citizens and many police leaders said they brought much-needed transparency to police encounters with the public  well worth the millions they cost to purchase and maintain. Critics say the devices have failed to produce better behavior.

Auditors from the four geographic bureaus perform spot checks roughly every four weeks by randomly reviewing eight gang unit stops that dont result in enforcement action. Supervisors are supposed to ensure that officers' reports reflect whats captured by their cameras and look for potential red flags, including canned language in reports, overreliance on a single confidential informant in multiple investigations and a high percentage of stops labeled as consensual.

The department has stepped up such reviews in the wake of the scandal. Moore has said that the audits confirm that the majority of officers act properly during public encounters.

Before the Mission scandal broke, the LAPD announced it was partnering with academic researchers to use artificial intelligence to study how officers speak to the public. But department officials have signaled the findings would be used solely for training purposes  to ensure, for instance, that officers arent rude and that they explain their actions when stopping people. That means misconduct uncovered would be unlikely to lead to discipline.

Read more: LAPD to use AI to analyze body cam videos for officers' language use

Although department leaders have insisted publicly that the problems identified in Mission were confined to a single division, an internal report found that the body camera issue is likely more widespread than officials were letting on.

The confidential report pointed to lapses in the 77th Street, Hollenbeck and Hollywood divisions.

One possible explanation for these lapses, the report says, is a real perception that exists among many officers that they are somehow excused from turning on their cameras in time to capture encounters with the public, so long as they can articulate a clear reason for not doing so.

Such lapses were not counted in monthly audits, allowing the department to maintain near-perfect rates of compliance, the report's authors said. At the same time, some supervisors are under the impression that they are only required to review recordings from arrests, when force is used or in cases in which the public files complaints against officers, and that most reviews are the responsibility of the Bureau Inspections Units or teams, the report said.

Read more: FBI joins probe of LAPD gang officers suspected of turning off body cameras

LAPD rules dont explicitly require supervisors to check body camera footage after they find a deviation in the comments of [an officers] report, and until recently, the report said, the departments computer system couldnt track whether such a review had been done.

The report said the department should consider studying the feasibility of adding to the workload of patrol supervisors, who are already tasked with the voluminous work of reviewing [videos] ... for Use of Force and Pursuit Investigations and Complaint Intakes.

Moore issued a directive earlier this month, clarifying that supervisors had the authority to review their officers videos in many cases.

At a news briefing Tuesday, Moore said the current camera policy is strong, but he admitted to some confusion about the role of supervisors in reviewing footage.

I recognize as we surveyed and spoke with command officers and others, that they believed differently because of the nature of our inspection procession, he said.

The codification of that, in their view, suggested that that was the only means in which they could have access to body worn video outside of an arrest or categorical use of force or a pursuit," he said, "so I wanted to clarify that.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Two new housing developments in Lexington were given initial approval on Thursday.

The Urban County Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve a zone change from a single-family residential zone to a dense residential zone for seven, three-story apartments at 2156, 2176 and 2184 Liberty Road. The plans include 168 units with 203 parking spaces.

Red Draw Development LLC, the developers, also plans to put a club house and pool on the 3-acre property near the intersection of Fortune Drive. Craig Turner is one of the principals of Red Draw Development.

There will be a primary entrance on Liberty Road and a secondary entrance on Paradise Lane for emergency vehicle access. There will be one and two-bedroom units.

The developers will have to put sewer lines on the property. The property has been used in the past for construction debris.

City planners recommended approval of the zone change.

Some neighbors opposed the zone change because Liberty Road, a popular cut-through, already has traffic back ups, some told the planning commission on Thursday.

City officials said there are plans for improvements to Liberty Road in coming years.

Affordable housing on Seventh Street

The planning commission also gave initial approval Thursday for a zone change by Habitat for Humanity for less than one acre from a business zone to a residential zone at 220, 224, 226 and 228 E. Seventh Street and 628 Maple Street. Plans call for seven, two-story townhomes.

Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit, helps low-income or other disadvantaged people buy homes.

The front of the homes will be orientated to Maple Street. People will access the homes from an alley behind the properties.

Thomas Martin, a senior planner, said Habitat for Humanity has built similar townhouses in other parts of the city.

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council must give final approval to both zone changes. The council can approve, modify or deny the zone change. A date for the council to hear the zone changes has not been set.
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Las Vegas police are searching for three suspects accused of retail theft in the west part of the valley.

Police believe the suspects are responsible for just under $20,000 in merchandise theft from a store near the 4300 block of Meadows Lane near Charleston and Decatur boulevards during the months of August and September.

Las Vegas police say three suspects are accused of stealing merchandise from 4300 block of Meadows Lane during the months of August and September 2023 (KLAS)



Las Vegas police say three suspects are accused of stealing merchandise from 4300 block of Meadows Lane (KLAS)

Las Vegas police say three suspects are accused of stealing merchandise from 4300 block of Meadows Lane (KLAS)

The three suspects are accused of targeting a large volume of clothing items, according to police.

Three photos of the suspects were released by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Retail Theft Section with no other additional details at this time.

Anyone with information is urged to call the LVMPD Retail Theft Section at 702-828-3591 or email ORC@LVMPD.COM. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 702- 385-5555, visit www.CrimeStoppersOfNV.com, or use the mobile app P3. Tips directly leading to an arrest or an indictment processed through Crime Stoppers may result in a cash reward.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
 Flash

Israeli tanks and infantry raided the northern Gaza Strip in a predawn attack Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.

The military said that forces conducted "a targeted raid" using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip. According to the statement, the raid was "part of preparations for the next stages of combat," in which Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza.

During the raid, soldiers located and struck "numerous" militants, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts and "operated to prepare the battlefield," IDF said.

According to a statement, the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory.

There were no reports of casualties on the Israeli side, and the soldiers exited the area at the end of the incursion.

At least 6,546 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its war on Hamas on Oct. 7 following Hamas' onslaught on communities in southern Israel earlier that day.
The National Zoo is set to return its panda bears to China in mid-November.

Still, the zoo is spending $1.7 million on updating the panda habitat with hopes they will return.

The last of the pandas in the US are set to leave next year unless a new deal is reached.

The last of the giant panda bears in the US are set to return to China by the end of next year, but some zoos are banking on "panda diplomacy" and expecting the bears will eventually return.

Panda bears at US zoos have been in the country on loan from the Chinese government, which has gifted or loaned out panda bears as part of its international relations. But the leases on the panda bears are expiring, and have yet to be renewed.

The pandas at the San Diego Zoo left for China in 2019, while the Memphis Zoo pandas went back in April. Washington DC's National Zoo is expected to send its three panda bears to China on November 15, via FedEx. That means the only pandas left in the US will be at the Atlanta Zoo  at least until their lease expires at the end of next year, or until a new deal is made.

"This is perhaps Beijing's way of signaling to the West that they may not be very happy with how things are going," Chee Meng Tan, an associate professor at the University of Nottingham in Malaysia and expert in "panda diplomacy," told The Washington Post.

Relations between the US and China have strained in recent years, and the failure to renew a deal on the pandas could be Beijing's way of expressing their displeasure, Tan said, adding China could be saying: "You're not treating us very well, so maybe we'll pull out our pandas."

Baby panda Xiao Qi Ji (L) celebrates his first birthday with his mother Mei Xiang at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, on August 21, 2021. Agnes Bun/AFP via Getty Images

Still, the National Zoo is making a big bet that the pandas will eventually return, despite few signals that US-China relations will drastically improve in the near future.

The Smithsonian Institution, which runs the zoo, is proceeding with a $1.7 million plan to renovate its panda habitat, Bloomberg reported. The updates to the enclosure include a new climbing structure, a pool, and more rocks, as well as a smoke evacuation system.

"We are definitely interested in continuing the future of our panda program here," Brandie Smith, the director of the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, told the outlet. "We have let them know we are interested in having, and we do want to continue to have pandas here, into the future, another 50 years of giant pandas at the National Zoo."

If the last of the pandas do leave the Atlanta Zoo next year, it will be the first time since 1972 that there will be no panda bears in the US.

Read the original article on Insider
Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's relentless retaliatory bombardments (MAHMUD HAMS)

Fighting in the war-torn Gaza Strip raged for a 20th day Thursday after Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.

Since the October 7 attack, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel's relentless retaliatory bombardments, mostly civilians and many of them children.

Here are five key developments from the past 24 hours:

- EU calls for 'pause' -

EU leaders on Thursday called for "humanitarian corridors and pauses" in order to get aid into Gaza, however, the bloc fell short of the demands from the United Nations for a "ceasefire".

The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

There has been strong condemnation of the Hamas attack, but after five hours of talks, there was less consensus on urging any halt to Israel's retaliatory bombardment.

The bloc did call for "holding of an international peace conference soon" to discuss trying to find a lasting, two-state solution.

- Gaza raid, Lebanon strikes -

The Israeli military said troops entered Gaza overnight with tanks and infantry in a "targeted raid", striking "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts" before retreating to home soil.

Late on Wednesday, its aircraft also struck Lebanon in retaliation for the launch of a surface-to-air missile, the military said.

Israeli air strikes continue to pound Gaza, and Palestinian militants launch rockets into Israel, the army reported.

- International concerns -

The United Nations warned Thursday that "nowhere is safe" in Gaza as Israel stepped up its bombardments in preparation for a widely expected ground offensive.

On Wednesday, French President Emmanuel Macron warned in Cairo that a "massive" Israeli operation in Gaza that endangered civilian lives was "not conducive to protecting Israel in the long term" and risked breaching international law.

His Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi also urged Israel "to avoid a ground invasion".

The Palestinian Authority's foreign minister, Riyad al-Maliki, denounced Israel's Gaza offensive as a "war of revenge" a day after meeting members of the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

- Gaza aid shortage -

Israel has cut off Gaza's normal supply corridors for water, food and other necessities, and fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory since the war began.

The UN says 12 of the territory's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel, and its UNRWA agency for Palestinian refugees said it "began to significantly reduce its operations".

More than 90 percent of medicine stocks and supplies have been depleted, according to Mohammed Abu Selmeya, head of Gaza City's Shifa hospital.

This comes as the death toll mounts, with Gaza's health ministry reporting on Thursday almost 500 more deaths in a day.

- Security Council divisions -

The UN Security Council on Wednesday again failed to take action on the Israel-Hamas war, with Russia and China vetoing a US-led draft resolution and a text led by Moscow drawing insufficient support.

The US proposal supported "humanitarian pauses" without calling for a full ceasefire, whereas Russia's sought "an immediate, durable and fully respected humanitarian ceasefire".

Meanwhile, US lawmakers passed a resolution voicing solidarity with Israel in its war with Hamas, in their first act after electing a new speaker of the Republican-led House of Representatives.

- EU leaders meet -

European Union leaders on Thursday were to debate calling for humanitarian "pauses" in the war, with the 27-nation bloc divided between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel like Germany and Austria.

ysm/hmw/srm/giv/gw
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) made an unforced error Wednesday night when she sent out a thoughts and prayers tweet to the victims of the mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine.

Boeberts post was short, reading, Sending prayers to Lewistown, Maine tonight. Know that the entire country is praying for you.

However, many people found the statement careless and insensitive. The Colorado Republican is very pro-gun and even co-owned a restaurant called Shooters Grill that featured waitresses with firearms.

To make matters worse, Boebert misspelled Lewiston as Lewistown.

Sending prayers to Lewistown, Maine tonight.



Know that the entire country is praying for you.  Lauren Boebert (@laurenboebert) October 26, 2023

As of Thursday afternoon, the tweet was still up with the typo intact, and it had racked up more than 7,000 replies  many of which pointed out her mistake.

Lewiston, Laur, Lewiston. Your prayers are not even going to the right place. But thats okaynobody wants your meaningless, useless, insincere prayers. Do something about the damn guns! https://t.co/75FdtBkaLL  Gisele  (@Gisele23935327) October 26, 2023

.@laurenboebert Next time you send fake prayers, at least spell the city correctly. It's Lewiston, Maine.

You're so vile, I can't wait for you to be voted out. https://t.co/epC78NZlFkpic.twitter.com/IKomfhQk6Y  SUSAN  (@ifudontlike2bad) October 26, 2023

Otherwise it's just another upstanding citizen that hears voices exercising his 2nd amendment rights, right? /s

P.S. it's "Lewiston"#fuckinguseless#idiothttps://t.co/7DBHEtxUeD  Adam Smith (@PPhlensing) October 26, 2023

Gonna take your thoughts and prayers for LewisTON with a big grain of salt. https://t.co/KKZeP4RYRSpic.twitter.com/0F8XpBiU2y  Sweet Bird of Truth (@decmusicology) October 26, 2023

This you?



No thoughts.

No prayers.

You don't give a shit.



You didn't even care enough to spell Lewiston correctly. https://t.co/MBBL05mv5ypic.twitter.com/gadp70TgJu  Adam Moore  (@morningstar2651) October 26, 2023

Can't even be bothered to spell Lewiston correctly. Really caring. https://t.co/HWCw2nAem5  Michael Alter, MPA (he/him) (@Alternative4NY) October 26, 2023

Boeberts political future appears to be on increasingly shaky ground.

Time reported that many Colorado Republicans, including Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel, fear that Boebert is losing her appeal among the states GOP voters.

In the previous election cycle, I received over [4,000] more votes than the sitting Congressional Representative, Daniel told TIME. This showed that conservatives are voting, and thousands did not vote for the incumbent; thats a problem.

Daniel recently endorsed Boeberts Republican challenger Jeff Hurd as a reaction to what she called the congresswomans latest round of self-inflicted wounds.

We have to face the fact we cant keep going on this trajectory and keep this seat, she said.

Boebert did not immediately respond to HuffPosts request for comment.

Related...
Los Angeles Unified school superintendent Alberto Carvalho and a team of officials visited the homes of chronically absent students last month for the districts fifth iAttend Student Outreach Day, an initiative to promote daily attendance.

The program was introduced after LAUSDs chronic absenteeism rate skyrocketed to 40% for the 2021-22 school year after students returned to in-person classes following remote instruction during the pandemic, according to the California Department of Education. In the 2022-23 school year, the district has been able to decrease that number to 30%, Carvalho said.

135th Elementary recently relaunched their iAttend program to encourage daily attendance. (Erick Trevino)

We are here to give resources and make parents aware of all of the benefits of ensuring their [children] are at school everyday, said Andre Spicer, LAUSD regional superintendent, who oversees 200 schools.

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Carvalho visited Daisy Morales, mother of four attending LAUSD schools who have been attending classes sporadically.

Last year, Moraless children averaged 64 absences.

After working with district officials, that number has been brought down to only two to three absences. Morales said the biggest challenge to getting her kids to school had been transportation issues.

They dont like to catch the bus in the morning because of their anxiety, said Morales, adding she struggled to get her kids to school once they missed the bus.

But after the district arranged for the bus to pick up her kids as close to their home as possible in what the district calls concierge transportation, they began attending school more regularly.

Carvalho also met with families who hadnt enrolled their children in the school system, adding many of them didnt even know they were legally required to sign them up for classes.

For the current school year, LAUSD increased enrollment with 20,000 new students, most of whom were 4-year-olds, an increase driven largely by the districts new pre-K program.

After a decade of 6% to 7% of declining enrollment, we have stabilized to 1.9%, said Carvalho.

Carvalho promises to get Morales the resources her family needs in order their attendance improves (Erick Trevino)

Sherree Lewis-DeVaugh, principal of 135 Street Elementary, said the school had begun hosting interventions with families who struggle to get their kids in school; bringing chronic absences down from 36% to just 10%.

Morales talks about how her struggle with transportation has made it hard for her kids to attend school regularly. (Erick Trevino)

If a student is not in school, how can they learn? said Lewis-DeVaugh. We need to make sure the students are educated, and to make sure that we provide support to our parents as well.

The school has begun hosting interventions directly with family members who struggle to get their kids in school; bringing chronic absences down from 36% to just 10%.

This article is part of a collaboration between The 74 and the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.
Ukrainian law enforcement has conducted searches at the office of acting Sumy Mayor Yuliia Pavlyk in connection to the alleged misappropriation of state funds, Suspilne Sumy reported on Oct. 26.

The raid at the Sumy City Council is related to the procurement of winter clothing for the city's volunteer defense formations, the head of the council's legal department told Suspilne media outlet.

Law enforcement has also searched local companies that may be involved in the case, according to Nataliia Kalynovska, a spokesperson for Ukraine's National Police.

Sumy Mayor Oleksandr Lysenko was removed from his position on Oct. 9 after being accused of accepting a bribe of Hr 1.4 million ($38,000) together with Oleksandr Zhurba, the head of the city's infrastructure department. Pavlyk replaced Lysenko in his post.

Read also: Officials accused of using war as pretext for hiding ill-gotten wealth

Oleksandr Lomako, acting mayor of Chernihiv, said on Oct. 26 that the State Bureau of Investigation came to search his home.

"Exactly one day after my (social media) post about the attempt of the city military administration and its head Bryzhynskyi to avoid responsibility for the tragedy in the Drama Theater," Lomako said on Facebook.

The Bureau confirmed the search at Lomako's home to Ukrainska Pravda media outlet, saying that it was sanctioned by the court and had nothing to do with his Facebook posts. The law enforcement agency added it would share the details later.

Russia's Aug. 19 missile strike against the city of Chernihiv hit the local drama theater, among other places, killing at least seven people and injuring 156. Following the attack, there have been unconfirmed reports in Ukrainian media that the missile was targeting a site where Ukrainian drone producers were holding an exhibition.

As some commentators criticized the choice of the exhibition location, the organizer said it was agreed with local authorities, but they denied it.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Lawmakers criticized the State Department for its lack of communication and urgency when dealing with political prisoners and hostages during a U.S. Helsinki Commission hearing Wednesday.

Russias war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war were central to the discussion.

They are bullies who want to control the people that they despise, and they do not understand any of the concepts of humanity, of getting along, and of trying to make the world a better place, Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) said of Hamas and Russia.

The Helsinki Commission is an independent government agency formed in 1976 to strengthen the legitimacy of human rights monitoring in American foreign policy. The commission is made up of nine senators, nine House members, and a member each from the departments of State, Defense and Commerce.

One witness was Evgenia Kara-Murza, whose husband, political prisoner Vladimir Kara-Murza, was sentenced to 25 years in Russian prison for his vocal opposition to the war in Ukraine, which included his previous testimonies before Congress.

When Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) asked how often she hears from the State Department about the status of his case, Kara-Murza said she does not regularly communicate with the department.

Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), chair of the commission, said that despite receiving an invitation to the hearing, the State Department failed to send a representative. He also noted the State Department did not send a representative to last months hearing discussing Kara-Murzas imprisonment.

Efforts to get them [State Department] to respond have been nil, and its very frustrating, Cohen said. I know Secretary Blinken has the right values, but he doesnt act. Without action, values are limited.

The State Department demanded his release in an April statement.

Despite calls for the department to deem Kara-Murzas imprisonment an arbitrary detainment, it has not yet done so and has not given lawmakers or families a reason.

The least the U.S. can do is have him declared an arbitrarily detained person, said Irwin Cotler, chair of the Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights, former Minister of Justice and former attorney general of Canada.

Witnesses also urged lawmakers to create more proactive policy when it comes to hostages and political prisoners.

Jared Genser, an international human rights lawyer, suggested making provisions to the Levinson Act, which aims to assist U.S. hostages or political prisoners by imposing sanctions on captors and providing support for families of those who are held captive or wrongfully imprisoned.

While I think the U.S. does a better job [than any other country] on these issues, helping our nationals abroad, theres a lot more that we can do, Genser said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Senate lawmakers are pressing Veterans Affairs officials to take a closer look at possible military toxic exposure injuries for troops who served in Kosovo in the late 1990s and beyond.

On Wednesday, senators unanimously adopted an amendment to their annual VA appropriations plan that would mandate a new department review of toxic exposure risk activities while serving in Kosovo. The move could potentially pave the way for benefits for thousands of veterans who deployed to the central European country over the last few decades.

Of particular concern are the potential lingering effects of toxic smoke from burn pits used in the country to dispose of household waste and other materials.

The dangers of burn pit fumes have been highlighted following their widespread use in Iraq and Afghanistan. Last year, as part of the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act  better known as the PACT Act  Congress expanded veterans disability benefits for 12 types of cancer and 12 other respiratory illnesses linked to the toxic smoke in those areas of operation.

Kosovo, however, was not among places where long-term respiratory illnesses and cancers are presumably linked to military duties. At least 25,000 active-duty and National Guard troops have been deployed to Kosovo over the last 20 years, according to Defense Department data.

What are military burn pits? And why are veterans worried about them?

In a letter to VA leadership in May, a group of House and Senate Democratic members listed a host of concerns about the long-term health threats for troops sent to the region.

[In Kosovo] civilians regularly dump tires, plastic, rubber, gas cans, batteries, household trash, and industrial trash, they wrote. According to documentation originating from various NATO Kosovo Force bases provided to our offices from the National Guard, when the trash is burned, wind blows smoke from the dump directly above [U.S. sites] at all hours of the day and night, exposing service members to smoke inhalation.

The new language would require that VA collect and report on air quality findings in the region, sickness and mortality reports on veterans who served there, and potential changes to department rules to better assist affected individuals.

But the measure still faces a long legislative path before becoming law.

The VA budget bill is being considered with a pair of other federal spending measures and expected to pass through the Senate in coming days. House lawmakers did not include any provisions related to Kosovo in their VA appropriations plan passed in July, and will have to reconsider the issue during negotiations with the Senate.
WASHINGTON  As the governments spending on the submarine industrial base grows, so too is concern among lawmakers.

The Biden administrations recent supplemental spending request includes $3.4 billion for the submarine industrial base, which, if passed, would bring the total planned investment to $8.7 billion from the U.S. government from fiscal years 2017 to 2028. The Australian government, too, may pitch in an additional $3 billion to cover the increased workload as part of the trilateral submarine agreement with the United Kingdom and Australia, known as AUKUS.

Through this spending, the Navy now says it will dig out of an attack submarine maintenance backlog by late FY27 or early FY28. It has said it would get back to on-time attack sub deliveries by FY28 as well.

But even then, the Navys fleet will still be some 16 boats short of its stated requirement, with no construction capacity to increase the size of that fleet for at least another decade.

During a Wednesday hearing of the House Armed Services seapower and projection forces subcommittee, Rep. John Garamendi, D-Calif., questioned why the Navy needs more money to address the same submarine challenges discussed in hearings for years.

Noting new House Speaker Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., in remarks Wednesday discussed reducing the deficit and cutting programmatic spending, Garamendi warned it may be hard to continue pouring more money into these same problems.

Now, we can go on and on  but I wont  about how long you have known there is a problem in the submarine section of the Department of Defense. In fact, everything thats on this list has, frankly, been known for a long time, and using AUKUS as the reason for this new supplemental is, in part, in my view, disingenuous, the California lawmaker said.

Vice Adm. William Houston, the commander of Naval Submarine Forces, said at the hearing the spending to date has made a difference. Since May, he said, the Navys in-service submarine fleet has gone from a 60% operational availability rate to 66% and is on track to reach the expected 80% operational availability rate by late FY27 or early FY28, assuming the submarine industrial base investments.

The supplemental bill includes about $700 million for parts, infrastructure and more needed for submarine repairs.

Rear Adm. Jonathan Rucker, the Program Executive Officer for Attack Submarines, said at the hearing about $2 billion of the $3.4 billion would go to supplier development, strategic outsourcing  an initiative to allow outside companies to build massive sections of the submarine in a bid to alleviate pressure on shipbuilders General Dynamics Electric Boat and HIIs Newport News Shipbuilding  and workforce expansion and development.

Following spending in FY19 and FY20, he said, more than 20 companies now are doing large structural fabrication work to support strategic outsourcing.

Were at about 4 million man hours annually that weve now pushed out, Rucker said. Our goal is to get up over 6 million by 2025.

Rep. Rob Wittman, R-Va., said hes concerned Electric Boat and Newport News Shipbuilding wont be able to hire and retain more workers. He said the two added 4,855 tradesmen in 2022, but lost 3,384. This year, he said, they added 7,193 through September but lost 3,313.

We can throw all the money we want to at the problem, but if you dont have the people there in the yards to build these submarines, I dont care what else we do, this enterprise fails, Wittman said.

Rucker said the two yards have increased the radius from which theyre trying to hire, including going into largely Hispanic communities outside their previous hiring areas. Rucker said Electric Boat raised salaries at its Quonset Point yard in Rhode Island last fall and has since reported an improved hiring rate.

Using a transfer car system, the Virginia-class submarine Montana (SSN 794) was successfully transferred from a construction facility to a floating dry dock at Newport News Shipbuilding division in preparation for its launch. Photo by Matt Hildreth/HII.

Despite these efforts and the billions of money spent and still to come, the fleet is set to continue shrinking in size. A long-range shipbuilding plan shows the fleet at 50 attack submarines this year, dipping to 46 in FY30, and then rising back to 50 in FY34  against a requirement for 66 attack submarines, based on the Navys study of its operational needs.

The Navy could have a chance to grow the size of the attack submarine fleet, but its about a decade away. The service is currently buying a Virginia-class submarine with an extra Virginia Payload Module section, which adds to the workload. Those boats will finish construction in the early 2030s, according to Rep. Joe Courtney, D-Conn., whose district includes the Electric Boat yard.

When we go back to the regular Virginia-class submarines, thats actually going to create capacity just by itself, he said.

The Navy will also buy its last Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine in FY35. The Columbia sub is about 2.5 times bigger than a Virginia and has strained the industrial base. When the Columbia buys end, Navy leaders have said there may be room in the budget and at the shipyards to increase how many Virginias the Navy buys each year.

Courtney is seeking to make the Navys case for additional investment and has released several memos to fellow lawmakers with details about the submarine industrial bases improvements to date and, most recently, an explanation of what the supplemental spending request would provide.
A coalition of parents, teachers and public education advocates has asked the state Supreme Court to overturn South Carolinas new private school voucher law.

The long-anticipated legal challenge, filed Thursday, argues that South Carolinas plan to subsidize the education of qualified private school students runs afoul of the state Constitutions no-aid clause, which prohibits the direct funding of private and religious schools.

The lawsuit comes roughly six months after the Republican-controlled General Assembly passed a controversial school voucher bill, S. 39, and Gov. Henry McMaster signed it into law.

The ESA law, as it is known, establishes an education scholarship trust fund that grants $6,000 vouchers to qualified families who pull their children out of local public schools and enroll them in private schools or public schools outside of their zoned districts.

School choice proponents support the measure on the grounds it affords parents the freedom to select an education option that best fits their childs needs. Detractors argue it diverts money from the traditional public school system to prop up unaccountable private schools that wont actually accept the neediest students.

Our public schools already lack sufficient resources, so it makes no sense to use school vouchers to divide our limited state funds between public schools and unaccountable private schools, said Candace Eidson, the parent of a student with special needs in Greenville County. Unlike public schools, which serve all students, the private schools that receive voucher funds are allowed to choose which students they will serve and can engage in discrimination that would never be allowed in public schools.

Eidson is one of six South Carolina public school parent plaintiffs who filed the suit in coordination with the South Carolina NAACP and the South Carolina Education Association.

The plaintiffs contend the ESA law violates multiple provisions of the South Carolina Constitution and have asked the state Supreme Court to assume original jurisdiction of the case because of its statewide significance.

In addition to the no-aid clause, they argue it violates the constitutional requirement that the state provide a system of free public schools open to all children, allocates public funds without a sufficient public purpose; and impermissibly expands the constitutionally-defined authority of the state superintendent of education, whose Department of Education will administer the program.

Our constitution reflects a binding commitment that the resources of our state be used to fully fund our public schools, which serve all students, South Carolina Education Association president Sherry East said in a statement. Instead of private school vouchers, we should invest in our public schools by reducing class size, addressing the teacher shortage crisis, and increasing parental involvement.

Easts SCEA was one of several parties that sued McMaster in 2020 over his plan to use $32 million in federal COVID-19 aid to fund tuition grants at private and religious schools.

The South Carolina Supreme Court unanimously struck down that proposal, citing the state Constitutions no-aid clause.

To avoid a repeat of that decision, Republican legislators crafted their ESA bill to explicitly circumvent the no-aid provision, and have expressed confidence it will survive a legal challenge.

Rather than sending voucher money directly to private and religious schools, as McMaster had proposed, the ESA law gives qualifying parents access to a state-funded account for education expenses of their choice. Indirect funding of private schools is not expressly prohibited by the state Constitution.

S.C. House Education Committee Chairwoman Shannon Erickson, R-Beaufort, who shepherded the bill through the House this past spring, said immediately after its passage that she welcomed a legal challenge.

I believe that it is fashioned in a way that the funding follows directly what our Constitution would require, Erickson said. It does not go to any organization. It goes to a qualified child.

Not all Republican lawmakers are as confident in the laws constitutionality.

State Sen. Tom Davis, R-Beaufort, for one, has expressed doubts about its ability to withstand a legal challenge. Davis, a staunch school choice supporter who voted for the ESA bill, has in recent years introduced alternative school voucher legislation that he argues would be on more solid legal footing.

Davis bill, known as ACE, or Academic Choice in Education, would fund school vouchers through tax-deductible private donations, similar to South Carolinas Exceptional SC program.

The state would still pick up the tab for vouchers under Davis plan, which cleared the Senate earlier this year, but the funding mechanism would be more indirect and thus more likely to survive a challenge, Davis has argued. The House is expected to take up the ACE bill in the new year.

Republican lawmakers are simultaneously pursuing another option that, if successful, would render moot any debates over the legal intricacies of school voucher funding mechanisms.

House Speaker Murrell Smith, R-Sumter, earlier this year proposed repealing the state Constitutions no-aid clause that prohibits direct funding of private and religious schools.

Smiths bill to amend the Constitution passed the House back in February, but has not yet moved in the Senate. To succeed, it will need two-thirds support in the upper chamber and the approval of a majority of voters in the next general election. If voters pass a constitutional amendment to repeal the no-aid clause, the bill would return to the General Assembly for ratification, which requires a simple majority vote.
At least 22 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a mass shooting spree in Maine on Wednesday evening, in what is the deadliest attack on US soil in four years.

State police in Lewiston, the states second-largest city, confirmed an active shooter had attacked a restaurant and bowling alley.

Multiple reports, citing police sources, said at least 22 people were killed and up to 60 were injured  the worst death toll since the same number were shot in a Walmart store in El Paso in August 2019.

A manhunt involving hundreds of police is currently under way to find the shooter who remains at large.

Police have released a photograph of a dark-haired, bearded suspect carrying what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle, and appealed for information about an armed and dangerous 40-year-old man named Robert Card.

According to a police intelligence bulletin, seen by the Associated Press news agency, Mr Card is a trained firearms instructor at a US Army Reserve facility in Maine who was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks earlier this year.

The document also said Mr Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

A man identified as a suspect by police points what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle in Lewiston, Maine - Reuters

Joe Biden was pulled from a dinner with Anthony Albanese, the Australian Prime Minister, on Wednesday night to be briefed on the situation, and has spoken with the states governor, senators and a congressman.

The shooter is understood to have opened fire at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.

The two locations are 4.2 miles apart, on opposite sides of Lewiston, a small city in the northeastern US state around 35 miles north of Portland.

A police source told local press there had also been shots fired at a Walmart distribution centre.

Locals have been instructed to stay indoors and warned that an active shooter is still at large.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston, Maine state police said on Twitter. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations.

The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston issued a statement saying it was reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and coordinating with hospitals to take patients.

First responders wait outside Central Maine Medical Centre, Lewiston - BBC

The image of the suspect was posted by state police on Facebook, with a plea for anyone with information about his identity to contact the authorities.

It appeared to have been taken from CCTV footage inside the bowling alley where one of the attacks took place.

The man was pictured carrying a large rifle and wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt and said to be driving a white Subaru Outback 4x4.

The Subaru Outback was found near a boat dock in Lisbon at 11.20pm local time, about seven miles away, but Mr Card was not inside the car.

The Lewiston Police Department released this image of a vehicle connected to the active shooter situation - Lewiston Maine Police Department

In a separate post, Lewiston Police issued a request for information about Mr Card.

Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Cardas a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening, a post on Facebook said.

Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts.

Hundreds of police in Maine are searching for Card

The suspect police identified as Robert Card - Lewiston Maine Police Department

Horror unfolds at bowling alley

Justin Juray, who owns the bowling alley where the shooting took place, told the New York Times that between 100 and 150 people, including 20 children, were in the building at the time.

Riley Dumont said her 11-year-old daughter was bowling with other children when she heard several gunshots.

The family huddled together in a corner at the bowling alley.

I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me, Ms Dumont told ABC News, adding that she saw three or four victims.

Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, said her staff immediately locked their doors and moved all 25 customers and employees away from the doors after a customer reported hearing about the shooting at the bowling alley less than a quarter-mile away around 7pm local time.

Police escorted everyone out of the building, four at a time.

I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe, Ms Small told The Associated Press.

But at the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.

The alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8pm as the sheriffs office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating two active shooter events.

Officials issued an update around 10pm on their search.

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear, the statement said. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the area and any disruptions. If already operating in the affected region, adhere to all instructions issued by local officials, including the shelter-in-place order.

We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate, the sheriffs office reported.

Robert McCarthy, a local councillor, said he grabbed his firearms as the real scary event unfolded less than a mile from his home.

We locked all the doors. We grabbed the guns, Mr McCarthy told CNN.

Were just waiting to hear that they catch the individual or individuals that did this.

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine - AP

The shooting is thought to be the deadliest in the US since at least August 2019, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 22 in a shooting that prosecutors branded an anti-Hispanic hate crime.

A further 23 people were injured in the attack, including one victim who died from their injuries in 2020.

The number of US shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the Covid pandemic began in 2020, with 647 occurring in 2022 and 679 projected to occur in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.

The deadliest US mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.

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.
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A gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and a restaurant in Maine on Wednesday, killing 18 people and injuring 13.

The shootings began early evening in the small city of Lewiston, sparking a massive police manhunt which is still ongoing.

Police there have told residents to stay indoors, as well as in Lisbon, Bowdoin and Auburn.

They named Robert Card, 40, a US Army reservist, as a person of interest and described him as "armed and dangerous".

Lewiston police said officers had responded to reports of shooting at two locations, a restaurant called Schemengees, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, which appear to be about four miles (6.5km) apart.

Riley Dumont told ABC News her 11-year-old daughter had been taking part in a children's bowling league at the bowling alley when she heard several gunshots.

She said her father, a retired police officer, had then corralled their family into a corner.

"I was laying on top of my daughter," she said. "My mother was laying on top of me."

She said that she saw three or four apparent victims.

Billie Jayne Cooke, who is running for the city council in Lewiston, told BBC News Channel she had been leaving an event as details of the shooting emerged.

"Helicopters, sirens, I've never heard so much activity in my life in this city. We have police from all over the state, from out of the state, coming up," she said.

"The whole city's on lockdown. It's horrible. You just don't think that's ever going to happen and it did."

The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office has released images of Robert Card, asking for the public's help identifying him.

A number of images show a bearded man in a brown sweater carrying a firearm and walking into a building.

Robert Card is a firearms instructor who was trained by the US military at a facility in the city of Saco, Maine, according to a state police bulletin seen by CBS.

The bulletin also said he had spent time in a mental health centre in the summer of 2023 and had threatened to commit a shooting at the base.

The authorities also shared a photo of a white vehicle, found in Lisbon,11km (seven miles) from Lewiston, saying its front bumper was believed to be painted black, and asked anybody who recognised it to contact police.

Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais said in a statement that schools in the district would be closed on Thursday.

The White House said President Biden had spoken individually by phone to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden.

Senator King said in a statement he was "deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbours".

A statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had been briefed and was continuing to monitor the situation.

A US justice department statement said that federal agencies were assisting state and local law enforcement.

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The latest mass shooting to afflict the nation claimed about two dozen lives and left more than 50 others wounded Wednesday night, sending a small New England town into terror.

The carnage in Lewiston, Maine, began around 7 p.m., when the first of at least three shooting attacks was reported, according to the Lewiston Sun Journal. At least 22 were reported dead. A manhunt involving hundreds of officers was underway late Wednesday, Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said at a press conference.

Cops first received calls about a shooter at a bowling alley, the Sun Journal reported. A short time later, another shooting struck a nearby bar and grill. A childrens event was happening at the bowling alley at the time of the violence, Lewiston Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN.

Maine State Police urged residents to shelter in place following reports of an active shooter in multiple locations.

Please stay inside your home with the doors locked, they wrote on social media. Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

A third shooting was reported at a Walmart Distribution Center shortly after 8 p.m. Sirens roared throughout town following reports of a possible fourth shooting around 9 p.m., according to the Sun Journal.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office posted a photo online of a suspect with an assault rifle wearing cargo pants and pointing a weapon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Boston was assisting the response.

Local cops named Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the mass shooting, adding that he should be considered armed and dangerous. At the late Wednesday press conference, Sauschuck stopped short of calling him a suspect or providing any details about him.

A vehicle of interest was located in the town of Lisbon, where residents were also asked to shelter in place, according to the commissioner.

He had few details on the situation, saying, The delay in coming here with you now is simply because we wanted to confirm information from our end.

The violence left locals stunned.

It was just a fun night playing cornhole  its the last thing youre expecting, right? Kathy Lebel, owner of Schemengees Bar & Grille, told the Sun Journal. I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.

Lebel wasnt at her establishment at the time of the attack, but said a person walked in and started shooting, prompting staff to scramble.

The FBI field office in Boston said it was ready to assist, according to CNN.

The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance, the bureau said in a statement.

So far this year, the country has seen over 500 mass shootings, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Vermont Sen. Angus King said he was deeply sad for Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors.

Rep. Chellie Pingree echoed the sentiment.

I am closely monitoring the reports of mass shootings in Lewiston. The unfolding violence is shocking and I am holding the affected communities in my prayers, the lawmaker said in a statement.


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Original article source: At least 22 killed in Maine mass shooting, Israel conducts Gaza ground incursion and more top headlines
Donald Trump s former White House chief of staff, Mark Meadows, secured an immunity deal with special counsel Jack Smith's team to testify under oath about efforts by the former president to overturn the 2020 election results, ABC News reported this week. At least three times this year, Meadows reportedly testified before a federal grand jury after he was granted immunity  which compels witnesses to testify with the assurance that their statements or the information stemming from their statements won't be used against them. "His cooperation," legal experts tell Salon "is a very big deal.

Meadows informed Smith's team that he repeatedly told Trump in the weeks following the 2020 presidential election that the claims of substantial voter fraud lacked merit, marking a notable departure from Trump's extensive rhetoric on the election, sources told ABC. The former White House chief of staff also informed federal investigators that Trump was being "dishonest" with the public when he declared victory on election night hours after polls closed, according to sources.

ABC News has identified apparent contradictions between Meadows' 2021 book and what he allegedly told investigators this year. His book alleges that the election was "stolen" and "rigged" in part due to media complicity, but in private conversations, Meadows told investigators that he hasn't seen evidence to dispute Biden's victory and agrees with the governments assessment that the 2020 presidential election was the most secure election in U.S. history.

However, this contradiction is not an unusual problem in criminal prosecution, former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade, a University of Michigan law professor, told Salon. Very often, a criminal associate will deny allegations initially and then change their story later. If Meadows testifies favorably for the government at a trial against Trump, certainly his prior inconsistent statements would be used by the defense to undermine his credibility, McQuade said.

She explained that Meadows would need to explain why he has made conflicting statements and the prosecution would also need to bolster his credibility by corroborating it with the testimony of other witnesses or exhibits. Prosecutors would use his testimony, only if they believe they can successfully demonstrate to a jury witnesss truthfulness, she added.

Meadows' testimony is unlikely to significantly impact Trump's defense since the ex-president has maintained that some of his advisers believed the election was fraudulent, while others did not, and he aligned himself closely with those who persisted the existence of election fraud.

Still, Meadows is one of the most subtly powerful figures in Washington, DC, James Sample, a professor at Hofstra University's School of Law, told Salon.

To borrow a line from Hamilton, the chief of staff is figuratively in the room when it happens - and quite often they are literally in the room as well, Sample said. To carry the Hamilton metaphor forward, Mark Meadows was literally and figuratively in the room when the efforts to overturn the election happened. Accordingly, his cooperation is a very big deal.

On top of this, Meadows had direct access to Trump and controlled who else had access to his and therefore is a direct eyewitness to critical events and key junctures between election day and January 6, Sample explained.

Public testimony reveals that in the weeks following the election, Meadows helped Trump in assessing fraud claims coming from key allies like Rudy Giuliani. But, by mid-December, Meadows said that he privately informed Trump that Giuliani had not provided evidence for the numerous allegations he had been making, ABC reported.

Additionally, former Attorney General Bill Barr stated in congressional testimony that allegations of election fraud were not substantiated, which he had conveyed to Trump and Meadows during an Oval Office meeting.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

"Defense attorneys are adept at using prior inconsistent statements to undermine the credibility of witnesses, V. James DeSimone, a California civil rights attorney, told Salon. But here the proof is in the pudding. While initially Meadows may have had a good faith belief in the election fraud theory, it became increasingly clear that there was no evidence to support this view and the repeated public statements to the contrary while pulling out all stops to prevent our democracy from functioning will corroborate Meadows statements to investigators and prosecutors. If they are granting him immunity, what he has to say must be valuable to the prosecution."

The contradictions between Meadows book and his alleged testimony certainly raise some credibility questions, Sample added. But just as is true of Michael Cohens testimony in the New York civil fraud case against Trump or of the organized crime cases, getting "at the whole truth" requires the testimony of some imperfect witnesses.

Prosecutors can reinforce the credibility of such witnesses with corroborating evidence and surely they will seek to do so with Meadows, Sample said.

While Meadows wasn't indicted in Washington, he was charged alongside Trump and other key associates in mid-August. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis brought RICO and conspiracy charges related to their alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia.

With multiple of the former presidents attorneys, and now his former chief of staff agreeing to cooperate with prosecutors, Donald Trump will surely publicly project confidence, but will just as surely know that the walls are closing in on him, Sample said.
Fulton County prosecutors have been in talks about potential plea deals with at least six more co-defendants in the Fulton County, Georgia, indictment related to former President Donald Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election, CNN reported.

District Attorney Fani Willis' office has a clearly defined strategy: to persuade as many co-defendants as they can to cooperate against Trump to convict the most serious offenders, legal experts say.

This has been Willis strategy the whole time, former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani told Salon. She never wanted to try 19 defendants. She wanted 18 guilty pleas and one trial against Donald Trump.

Robert Cheeley, a pro-Trump lawyer, declined a plea agreement, his attorney told the news outlet. But at least five other co-defendants, including former Coffee County elections supervisor Misty Hampton and former Trump campaign official Mike Roman, have engaged in discussions regarding potential plea deals with the D.A.s office, according to CNN. Three other defendants have also been in talks about a potential plea deal with prosecutors.

Among the 19 defendants in the Fulton County case, four individuals, including three attorneys who played direct roles in Trump's efforts to overturn the election results in Georgia, have already agreed to plea deals. In some instances, they have pleaded guilty to felony charges in return for a more lenient sentencing recommendation.

"Taking a no-time misdemeanor or felony deal is a no-brainer for co-defendants, Rahmani said. The offer is too good to pass up. These arent career criminals who have done or are used to prison time.

This is a significant win for a prosecutor in a large conspiracy case, who can get lower-level co-defendants to plead guilty and cooperate by offering up information and testimony against higher-level defendants, like Trump, Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman and several others, Bennett Gershman, a former New York prosecutor and law professor at Pace University, told Salon.

She is continuing to build momentum, Gershman said. Several other co-defendants, seeing the others plead guilty and the far riskier consequences of not pleading and facing trial will also take pleas and cooperate. The D.A.s strategy is working almost to perfection.

Trump and 18 co-defendants were indicted in August under the state's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act by a grand jury in Fulton County after more than a two-year investigation by Willis into potential 2020 election interference in Georgia.

With the help of RICO, which was passed to address organized crime, prosecutors charged multiple individuals with various crimes under one case by arguing that these individuals worked together in a criminal enterprise.

In a criminal conspiracy case like this one, the most difficult task for the prosecutors is proving the agreement  the meeting of the minds required by conspiracy charges, Paul Saputo, a Texas-based defense attorney, told Salon.

The prosecutors need people who can testify about coordination and planning to get at the heart of the conspiracy, he added.

Getting insiders to cooperate can make or break the case because the insiders know just that, Saputo said. The plea deals here will require cooperation with the state and allow jurors to peek behind the curtain as to just what the actors involved were planning.

With each person who accepts a plea deal in exchange for cooperation with the state, the strength of the state's case grows, he explained, adding that the cooperating witnesses can paint a compelling picture of the depth of the conspiracy.

So far, four people have accepted plea deals, including Georgia attorney Kenneth Chesebro, ex-Trump attorneys Jenna Ellis and Sidney Powell and the bail bondsman Scott Hall. The current case charges the ex-president alongside 14 remaining co-defendants of engaging in a "vast racketeering enterprise, The Messenger reported.

As part of her strategy, Willis may be trying to get as many co-defendants to cooperate against Trump in an attempt to isolate him and others at the top of the criminal enterprise.

In a conspiracy case, guilty pleas tend to snowball, and that is exactly what were seeing here, Saputo explained. The state's evidence will get stronger with each passing plea as more and more insiders share information with the state and admit wrongdoing.

You might be able to attack the credibility of a single person or maybe two people, but once enough insiders come out willing to testify about the existence of a conspiracy, it begins to strain credibility that all of your former colleagues were acting on their own or in a vacuum, Saputo said.

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course.

The conspiracy is being narrowed and tailored to convict after a trial of the most serious offenders, Gershman said. It gives the prosecution the chance to hone the evidence, use resources much more efficiently and focus entirely on the major offenders  Trump and his closest advisors.

But this isnt where the case ends, Saputo added. Trump and the others can still attack each person as an admitted wrongdoer.

And they can argue that while perhaps the others were conspiring to help Trump, Trump had no knowledge of that, Saputo said. But eventually, even a Trump card can't pull a joker out of the hat.
NBCs Lester Holt and Kristen Welker are set to moderate the third Republican primary debate alongside morning talk show host Hugh Hewitt , NBC announced on Wednesday.

The three will take the stage at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami on Nov. 8, as the remaining GOP presidential hopefuls  those who can qualify  push to break away from the pack in the polls.

So far, five candidates have hit the Republican National Committees increasingly stringent requirements to make it onto the debate stage. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie have all qualified, as has the current frontrunner, former President Donald Trump  who is set to again skip the debate in favor of his own rally in nearby Hialeah, Fla.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, meanwhile, has met the polling requirements but still needs to hit the 70,000-donor mark. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) has yet to hit either threshold, according to POLITCOs analysis, though his campaign has claimed he has met the polling requirements.

Holt, the anchor of  NBC Nightly News , co-moderated the first Democratic presidential primary debate of the 2020 cycle, alongside fellow NBC and MSNBC reporters Savannah Guthrie, Chuck Todd, Rachel Maddow and Jose Diaz-Balart. He also served as the moderator for the first general election debate between Trump and Hillary Clinton in 2016.

NBCs new Meet the Press host, Welker, will join Holt in Miami in November. Welker previously won praise for her role as a debate moderator, after deftly navigating the 2020 presidential debate between Joe Biden and Trump.

Think we can all agree the winner is Kristen Welker, Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon said at the time, calling the performance a knockout. Welker did a bang-up job on the largest stage of any political journalists career," Playbook wrote at the time.

Hewitt is the host of the nationally syndicated Hugh Hewitt Show, and a contributing columnist for The Washington Post. The conservative radio host previously worked in the Reagan administration.
The massive manhunt for the US Army reservist accused of killing 18 people in the American state of Maine continued Friday with a focus on the boat launch where police discovered his car.

Maine Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said he intended to direct divers, helicopters and officers to the Androscoggin River and the shoreline.

"I'm not saying the suspect is definitely in the water," he told reporters.

The alleged gunman is said to have entered a bowling alley and then a restaurant in Lewiston and opened fire indiscriminately in both locations on Wednesday evening.

Here's what we know about the hunt for the murder suspect.

The police manhunt

Mr Sauschuck said they were working the river because of the car's location and the fear they might lose evidence in the current.

But authorities are not limiting the manhunt to the river.

Almost exactly 24 hours after the two shootings, police executed a series of search warrants on a rural road in a small Maine village the suspect called home.

Part of that effort in Bowdoin was caught on live TV as police were heard yelling over a megaphone for Mr Card to surrender and come out of a house "with your hands up".

Police later said that this was a standard search warrant announcement made before entering a house, but it was "unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search".

Mr Sauschuck said that they were working to acquire further search warrants to obtain "phones and computers from other locations.

The federal government may also be helping with that aspect of the search, according to Miles Taylor, the former Chief of Staff to the Department of Homeland Security.

Mr Taylor told the BBC that the federal government has access to technical and electronic tools "that might help track down this subject, or figure out where he was in the hours ahead of this attack, or potentially, to understand what his motivations and planning were".

Who are the victims?

We do not have many details yet on the people killed or injured, but we do know that seven died in the shooting at the bowling alley.

Witnesses described families being there at the time and the panic that was triggered by the gunshots.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Riley Dumont told ABC News her 11-year-old daughter had been taking part in a children's bowling league when the gunman opened fire.

She ended up laying on top of her daughter to shield her from the bullets, and her mother lay on top of her.

Eight people, all male, were killed at the Schemengees Bar and Grille restaurant, seven inside and one outside, police said.

Some of the dead have been identified and their families informed, but there are 10 people still unidentified.

Who is suspect Robert Card?

The police named Robert Card as the suspect and described him as 5'11" (180cm) tall, weighing 230 pounds (104kg).

He is armed and dangerous, police said, but they have not said anything about a possible motive.

Police said he spent two weeks at a mental health facility this summer and was subsequently released. He was removed by New York State Police from a training exercise at the US Military Academy in July for "behaving erratically," the service said.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

"He was picking up voices that he had never heard," his sister-in-law Katie Card told NBC News. "His mind was twisting them around. He was humiliated by the things that he thought were being said."

His last known address was in Bowdoin, Maine.

He attended the University of Maine as an engineering student. It is not clear if he graduated from the university.

Mr Card is enlisted in the US Army Reserve and has an active military ID, the US Army confirmed.

Authorities initially described him as a trained firearms instructor but later said that was not accurate. An Army spokesperson said the service had not trained Card "as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army".

map
The Maine mass shooting victims: (top row l-r) Ronald G Morin, Peyton Brewer-Ross, Joshua A Seal, Bryan M MacFarlane, Joseph Lawrence Walker, Arthur Fred Strout; (second row l-r) Maxx A Hathaway, Stephen M Vozella, Thomas Ryan Conrad, Michael R Deslauriers II, Jason Adam Walker, Tricia C Asselin; (bottom row l-r) William A Young, Aaron Young, Robert E Violette and Lucille M Violette, William Frank Brackett, Keith D Macneir (Maine Department of Public Safety via AP)

A bar manager, four deaf friends and a teenage bowler are among the 18 victims who were formally identified by police on Friday as victims of the Maine mass shooting.

The ages of those caught up in the violence ranged from 14 to 76 years old. Some who died reportedly put themselves in the line of fire to protect others.

Just before 7pm, the gunman entered Just In Time Recreation  a popular, family-friendly establishment and opened fire on the innocent victims inside. Seven people including one female and six males died in the attack at the bowling alley, before the gunman moved on to his second target the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant.

Late on Friday evening the body of 40-year-old Robert Card, the man sought in connection with the killings, was found.

Officials said that the US Army reservist and certified firearms instructor had recently made threats to carry out a shooting at a National Guard facility and had reported mental health issues, including auditory hallucinations.

Here is a list of the victims as identified by police:

Aaron and Bill Young

Aaron Young, 14, and his father Bill Young, 44, were at Just In Time Recreation for an evening with their bowling league on Wednesday night when the gunman entered and opened fire.

Bills younger brother, Rob Young, told Reuters that for hours after the shooting their family had no idea what happened to Aaron or Bill. The search ended tragically on Thursday afternoon when the family learned that both the father and son were killed in the attack.

Kim McConville, Bills cousin, said that Aaron and Bill were just innocent people enjoying a night together at the bowling alley.

Just innocent people out for a night of bowling, she said. This was a childrens event. You know, who expects a shooter to go into a childrens event? But you know, this is a crazy world that we live in today.

Aaron, 14, was bowling with his father and their league (NBC Boston)

Aaron was a sophomore in high school who enjoyed doing anything his father was doing according to a tribute from a GoFundMe page. His family said he was a gentile and thoughtful kid.

Bill and Aaron Young in an undated picture (NBC Boston)

Bill was described as hardworking and always enjoyed life to the fullest. He provided for his family which consists of his wife, Cindy, and his two daughters, Kayla and Lauren.

If anyone ever needed anything, Bill and his wife were the first to lend a hand. I couldnt have asked for a better big brother, Mr Young said.

Joseph Walker

Joseph Walker, 57, was the bar manager at Schemengees Bar and Grille in Lewiston. His father, Leroy Walker, identified him as one of the 18 victims who died last week in the shooting.

Walker was described as a husband, father, grandpa and son, in a GoFundMe page meant to support his surviving family members.

He was at Schemengees on the night of the shooting to play cornhole with his family and friends, according to his daughter Bethany.

Joseph Walker (Facebook)

It took over 14 hours for Mr Walker to be notified about his son, and he said his family was suffering and dying in a nightmare we dont understand.

None of us slept, we were up all night, he said. We didnt know where to go, who to run to. They didnt notify any of us, Mr Walker said.

Bob and Lucy Violette

Bob Violette, a 76-year-old retired Sears mechanic and avid bowler, was identified by his daughter-in-law Cassandra as one of the victims, she told the Portland Press Herald.

Violette, who was a native of Lewiston and ran a youth bowling league, was reportedly killed trying to protect the kids he was responsible for on Wednesday night.

Both he and his wife Lucy, 73, were keen bowlers, having started the youth bowling league at Just In Time Recreation, for which Violette was recently inducted into the Maine Bowling Hall of Fame.

He wouldnt let you walk out the door without giving him a hug, and a kiss on the cheek. He was just there for everything, Cassandra said.

Bob Violette (Facebook)

She said he had a special bond with his grandkids and was a doting husband to his wife Lucy, who was also killed in the shooting.

His first thought every day was her, Cassandra added.

The couple is survived by their three sons and six grandchildren.

Bryan MacFarlane

Bryan MacFarlane, 41, was fatally shot at Schemengees Bar & Grille while participating in a cornhole tournament.

MacFarlane was a proud member of the deaf community, his family said in a GoFundMe description.

His sister, Keri Brooks, told CNN that he typically went to the bar on Wednesdays for a weekly cornhole session and to hang out with his friends.

Bryan MacFarlane (Facebook)

MacFarlane worked as a truck driver and was one of the first deaf people in the state of Vermont to get his commercial trucking license. In his free time, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle and playing with his dog, Ms Brooks said.

He grew up in Maine and moved back to the state recently to be close to his family and friends.

His family said they hope to raise enough money in his memory to create a scholarship at a school in Maine for a deaf recipient to encourage deaf teens to pursue a career in trade.

Tricia Asselin

Tricia Asselin, 53, worked part-time at Just In Time Recreation and was bowling on Wednesday night with her sister when the shooter came in and opened fire, her family told CNN.

As soon as gunfire began, Asselin ran to the counter to call 911.

We were just running, and I kept saying: I want my sister out of there. And she called 911 and put herself in his way by trying to get help. Shes a hero. My sister is a hero, Asselins sister Bobbi-Lynn Nichols told People magazine.

Tricia Asselin (Facebook)

That was just her. She wasnt going to run. She was going to try and help, Asselins brother, DJ Johnson, told CNN.

Ms Nichols said that it was her sisters day off from work but that she still went to Just In Time Recreation to bowl with her family.

My sister was the most kind, most honest, most giving person you would ever meet. She would take her last penny and give it to you. She would raise money for people she didnt even know, Ms Nichols said.

Tommy Conrad

Thomas Tommy Conrad, 34, worked as a manager at Just In Time Recreation and was fatally shot during the mass shooting on Wednesday.

Alex McMahan, who co-owns a chain of dispensaries in the Lewiston area, texted his longtime customer and buddy Conrad, Are you okay, brother?

And he obviously didnt text back, Mr McMahan told The Independent.

Tommy Conrad (Facebook)

I hear that he died trying to take out the shooter, which was just an amazing act of selfless heroism  and knowing him, and knowing how good of a guy he was, Im not surprised at all that he didnt hesitate to put his life on the line to try to help others, Mr McMahan added.

Conrad had been planning on doing a pumpkin carving at the bowling alley for the kids in the Lewiston community. Following the shooting, mourners left Jack-o-lanterns outside of the bowling alley to pay tribute to Conrad.

Conrads father, Timothy Conrad, confirmed that he was killed in the attack to ABC News. Conrad is survived by his nine-year-old daughter.

Peyton Brewer-Ross

Peyton Brewer-Ross, 39, is among those who were fatally shot during the mass shooting on Wednesday.

The Maine AFL-CIO  a state federation of over 160 local labor unions  announced that Brewer-Ross, one of its members, was among those killed. He worked at a pipe shop in Bath Iron Works (BIW)

Brewer-Ross had recently completed coursework and on-the-job training at BIWs rigorous apprenticeship program.

Brewer-Ross was a father and loved by his community the federation wrote on X, sharing a picture of him smiling and holding a young child.

Peyton Brewer Ross (Facebook)

He was a lover of the game cornhole and was at Schemengees Bar and Grille playing in a tournament went the gunman opened fire.

His brother, Ralph Wellman Brewer, said in a GoFundMe description that cornhole was one of the things that Brewer-Ross thought was so much fun.

Brewer-Ross is survived by his partner, Rachael, and their two-year-old daughter.

Joshua Seal

Joshua Seal, 36, was a well-known American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter and was hosting a community event for members of the deaf community at Schemengees Bar & Grille when the shooting unfolded.

Seal was the Director of Interpreting Services for the Pine Tree Society  an organisation which provides Maine children and adults with disabilities the opportunities and the means to create better lives for themselves and their families.

His wife, Elizabeth, confirmed his death in a post on Facebook calling him the best father to the couples four children.

Joshua Seal (Facebook)

He was always there for them, lending an eye or a hand and going to their sporting/extracurricular activities. He always loved spending time with them, traveling, going for a day trip to the beach, or going camping for the weekend. Not only was he an amazing father, he was a wonderful husband, my best friend, and my soulmate, Elizabeth wrote.

Seals mother, Michele, said her son was the most selfless person you would ever meet.

He is survived by his four children, aged 12, nine, seven and three, as well as his wife.

Michael Deslauriers

Michael Deslauriers, 51, was killed alongside his close friend, Jason Walker, at Just In Time Recreation.

Deslauriers died trying to save their families from the shooter by charging at the gunman.

In a heartbreaking post on the Sabattus Historical Societys Facebook page, Deslaurierss father, Michael Deslauriers Sr, described how the two men leaped into action to try to save others and stop the killings.

Deslauriers ex-wife, Stacey, described him as an amazing man, father and provider, according to The Washington Post.

He is survived by his four children.

Jason Walker (left) & Michael Deslauriers II (right) (Facebook)

Jason Walker

Jason Walker, 51, died alongside his close friend, Michael Deslauries, at Just In Time Recreation while trying to save others from the shooter.

They made sure their wives and several young children were under cover then they charged the shooter, Michael Deslauriers Sr. wrote in the post about Walker and his son, Michael Deslauriers Sr said.

Ron Morin

Ronald Ron Morin, 55, was fatally shot during the mass shooting in Lewiston.

Morin was described as having an infectious personality and a man who always put others before himself, his family said in a GoFundMe description.

He was a man who always put others before himself and looked for the humor and positivity in even the most tragic circumstances. He has touched so many lives who are trying to reach out and provide support for his family however they are able, his family said.

Ron Morin (Facebook)

Rosa Storer, a stylist at Taboo Hair Design in Lewiston where he had his hair cut for 25 years, called him an upstanding man with a lot of joy in his heart.

He had the best jokes, she added.

Morin is survived by his wife, Lynn, and their two children.

Arthur Strout

Arthur Artie Strout, 42, was killed at Schemengees Bar & Grille while playing pool with friends.

Strouts father, Arthur Barnard, told WCVB that he had been at the bar with his son that night and had left just 10 minutes before the shooting began.

He was supposed to leave with me and he decided he wanted to stay for a couple more games, Mr Barnard said.

Arthur Strout (Facebook)

He added: People loved him. They just loved him.

Strout is survived by his wife, Kristy, and their five children.

Billy Brackett

William Billy Brackett, 48, was also attending the community event for deaf people at Schemengees Bar & Grill on Wednesday night when he was fatally shot.

Bracketts father told ABC News that the group was playing cornhole when the gunman targeted the second location.

His friends described him as someone who loved darts, cornhole, fishing and hunting in a GoFundMe description.

Billy Brackett (Facebook)

Bracketts friend, Nick Perry, paid tribute to him on Facebook, writing: Ill never forget the laughs I had you in when I was trying to learn some sign language at cornhole.

Another friend, Owen Horr, described Brackett as kind and shy who was obsessed with sports from a young age in a Facebook post.

He had natural-born athletic skills... He was the best soccer goalie, playing baseball and basketball. He made more than 1,000 points during his senior high school years. Also, he was the outstanding baseball player in the league in Auburn/Lewiston, ME, Mr Horr wrote.

He is survived by his wife, Kristina, and their two-year-old daughter.

Steve Vozzella

Steven Steve Vozzella, 45, was also part of the cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar & Grille.

Vozella was a member of the deaf community and a United States Postal Service (USPS) worker for more than 20 years.

Vozellas brother, Nick Vozzella, confirmed to ABC News that he was killed in the shooting.

Steve Vozzella (Facebook)

The National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), a union representing city delivery letter carriers employed by the US Postal Service, paid tribute to Vozella saying they were heartbroken by the news of his death.

Brother Vozzella was only 45 years old. He had much more life to live before it was stolen from him in an all-too-common senseless act of gun violence, NALC President Brian L Renfroe said.

Friends of Vozzella said he was a hardworking man who loved his family and animals, in a GoFundMe description.

He is survived by his wife, Megan, and his daughter.

Maxx Hathaway

Maxx Hathaway, 34, was killed in the mass shooting that took place in Lewiston.

Hathaway was described as goofy and down-to-earth by his sister, Kelsay Hathaway, in a GoFundMe description. She said her brother loved to joke around and was uplifting even in difficult times.

According to Kelsay, her brother was a full-time stay-at-home dad.

Maxx Hathaway, 34, was killed during the Maine mass shooting (GoFundMe)

Hathaway is survived by his daughter and his wife, who is pregnant with the couples second child.

Keith Macneir

Keith Macneir, 64, was visiting his son in Lewiston, Maine when gunfire suddenly broke out at Schemengees Bar & Grille.

Macneirs niece, Grace Chilton, said Macneirs death is an overwhelming burden for Breslin and began a GoFundMe to raise money to support Breslin.

Keith was the friendliest & kindest guy in any room  his loss will leave a huge hole in the lives of many, many people, Grace wrote.

Keith Macneir, 64, was visiting his son in Maine when gunfire broke out at a local restaurant and bar (GoFundMe)

Macneir is survived by his son.
Employees at Good Foods Co-op announced that they have ratified a union contract that guarantees annual raises and increased food safety, among other benefits.

The first contract was approved with overwhelming support, according to a news release.

Good Foods Co-op, at 455 Southland Drive, is a grocery store that also has a popular cafe and buffet hot bar that serves locally grown food as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

The new contract includes food safety protections for customers and employees, guaranteed yearly pay increases, discipline for cause only, a right to representation, increased employer contributions for health insurance including dental and vision, additional holidays paid at time and a half, and formation of a labor-management committee, according to the release.

Good Foods Co-op is exploring the possibility of adding a second location. The store on Southland Drive in Lexington celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2012. Photo by David Perry Staff

Employees at the 50-year-old cooperative, which focuses on organic, bulk and locally grown goods, voted to form a union on April 20; the co-op subsequently recognized the union. They joined United Food and Commercial Workers Local 227, which helped negotiate the agreement with management.

Workers and management alike love our co-op. We appreciate our connection to the community which being a co-op affords us, said Lauren Murrell, Good Foods Co-op employee and union negotiating committee member, in a statement. Im excited for us to begin a new chapter in workplace sustainability at our co-op, in the form of this contract workers and management came together to create, and Im thrilled that my co-workers voted to ratify this contract!

Good Foods general manager Robert Walker said the co-op was excited to reach the agreement. The three-year contract in place we feel will be beneficial to the success of the coop, he said.

Good Foods Co-op, the cooperative grocery, has reached a new contract with employees that guarantees yearly raises and increases food safety.

From the start of this campaign the workers at Good Foods Co-op had a clear message, they need respect in the workplace, said UFCW 227 President Bob Blair in the news release. Workers without a union contract can be disciplined and fired for any or no reason at all, going forward at Good Foods Co-op the people who work to keep the dream of this cooperative alive can feel confident to speak up, knowing their union has their back.
Club Q, the Colorado LGBTQ+ club where five people were killed in a 2022 mass shooting, will reopen in a new venue under a modified name, its owners announced.

Both locally and nationally, Club Qs reopening sends a strong message that hate will not win, love will always prevail, the clubs management said in a statement. Over the last 11 months, we have heard the perspectives of survivors, victims families and the greater community. The voices are overwhelmingly strong, Club Q must return  when and where has been the main debate.

And the owners added: Safe venues are still very important. Transgender people are being attacked and legislated against throughout the country and the art of drag is under attack as grooming. The Q, in the tradition of Club Q, will stand up to these attacks.

The new venue will be called The Q and will operate out of the Satellite Hotel in Colorado Springs. Management did not announce a timeline for the re-opening.

The group also said the designing of a memorial for the five victims of the shooting  Daniel Aston, Raymond Green Vance, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh and Derrick Rump  is still in progress.

The city has marked the tragedy in other ways.

In June 2023, Richard Fierro, an Army veteran who helped subdue the shooter, was made grand marshal in the citys Pride parade.

Im blown away by the stories Ive heard ... I already thought I knew what was going on in the LGBTQ community, but I didnt, he told The Independent. And hearing the stories of these kids, its still just as hard as it was back in the 80s and 90s when I was watching my friends go through this.

In November, Anderson Lee Aldrich opened fire with an assault-style rifle, killing five and injuring 19 others.

In June, he pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree murder among numerous other charges and was sentenced to life without parole.

That is the longest sentence ever achieved in the Fourth Judicial District and the second, to my knowledge, longest sentence ever achieved in the state of Colorado, second only to the sentence achieved in the Aurora theater shooting case, Fourth Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen said at the time of the case.

The shooter was able to obtain multiple weapons, including one purchased by their mother, despite being charged in 2021 with felony menacing and first-degree kidnapping after making a bomb threat.

The charges were later dropped and its records were sealed.

Critics have argued the ability of the shooter to obtain multiple weapons shows the limits of Colorados red flag laws.
Senior Chinese diplomat meets California governor

Xinhua) 09:36, October 26, 2023

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, meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Wang Yi, director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing on Wednesday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said California has maintained friendly and cooperative relations with China for a long time. Newsom's visit to China can be described as an ice-breaking trip to consolidate the foundation, sow hope, and open up the future.

"Time and facts will prove that this visit is in line with the wishes of California people, the interests of the U.S. people, and the expectations of the international community," said Wang.

Wang said the interests of China and the United States are closely intertwined. It is hoped that California will continue to take the lead in sub-national cooperation between China and the United States and play a constructive role in promoting the United States to view China's development and revitalization in an objective and friendly way and return to a rational and pragmatic policy toward China.

Newsom said his trip to China is for peace, cooperation, and friendship. As the first U.S. governor to visit China in the last four years, he hopes this trip will open a new chapter for sub-national exchanges and cooperation between the United States and China.

No matter how the situation changes, California will continue to be a reliable partner of China and stands ready to strengthen cooperation in climate change, innovation, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and other fields to promote mutual development and prosperity, Newsom added. 

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, meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Photo illustration of the Liberty Mutual Insurance company logo seen displayed on a smartphone. (Photo Illustration by Igor Golovniov/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

(FOX 9) - Drivers and homeowners in Minnesota using Liberty Mutual insurance may be entitled to a refund after an investigation alleges the company violated multiple state insurance regulation laws.

In an announcement Wednesday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce said Liberty Mutual Insurance Company has agreed to pay approximately $7.7 million to 86,506 policyholders as part of a consent order.

The order stems from an investigation conducted by the Department of Commerce which alleges the company/and or its subsidiaries violated state insurance regulation laws. According to the press release, the allegations include:

Failed to offer the minimum antitheft protection device discount for auto insurance.

Applied an automated rate increase in violation of state law for auto insurance.

Used an applicants status as a residential tenant in offering or establishing multi-policy discounts for bundling auto and homeowners insurance.

Liberty Mutual has already started reimbursing policyholders, including refunding/crediting more than $2.27 million to 53,604 current and former policyholders affected by the antitheft protection device discount, averaging $42.41 per policyholder.

The insurance company has also started refunding/crediting an estimated $2.7 million to 7,700 current and former policyholders affected by the multi-policy discount, averaging $350.65 per policyholder.

Lastly, Liberty Mutual will issue $2.1 million in credits and $670,000 in refunds to about 11,800 current policyholders, averaging $177.96 each, and 8,700 former policyholders, averaging $77.01 each, who were affected by the automated rate increase on auto insurance, according to the release.

"When consumers pay premiums for insurance policies, they are protected by state law to ensure they get what they pay for," said Commerce Commissioner Grace Arnold in a statement Wednesday. "This case demonstrates Commerces work to protect consumers and also ensure a fair and equitable marketplace."

Liberty Mutual has 360 days to issue a refund, credit or reduce the premium for the impacted policyholders under the consent decree. If Liberty Mutual does not comply, the company faces an additional $150,000 civil penalty fee.
Lindsay Clancy, the Duxbury mother accused of killing her kids before attempting to take her own life, pleaded not guilty Thursday to three counts of murder in connection with their deaths.

Clancy, 33, was arraigned during a hearing at Tewksbury Hospital on three counts of murder and strangulation after she was indicted in September in the deaths of her 5-year-old daughter, Cora, her 3-year-old son, Dawson, and her 8-month-old baby, Callan.

Clancy has been committed at Tewksbury Hospital since May after undergoing treatment at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. Her attorney, Kevin Reddington, told Boston 25 at the time that Clancy was in need of extended mental health care.

Chilling timeline: Lindsay Clancy accused of planning murders of her 3 children, prosecutor says

The judge presiding over Thursdays hearing ordered Clancy to remain held at the hospital, saying that she is a serious risk of imminent self-harm. Prosecutors didnt object, while Reddington described his client as a marvelous mother.

Since the tragedy unfolded inside the familys Summer Street home on the evening of Jan. 24, 2023, Reddington has maintained that Clancy had been suffering from postpartum depression and that she was overmedicated at the time of her childrens deaths.

On Thursday, Reddington said of Clancy, This woman was a troubled soul.

However, prosecutors are trying to paint a different picture. They used journal entries and medical records to paint her as a lucid, clear-thinking mom who was struggling with love and connection issues with her children.

Her writing was clear and precise, Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague said of Clancys journals, in which she chronicled family life, her mental state, and what medications she was taking.

She appears to know who she is, where she is, whats going on, said Sprague. With no disoriented thoughts or speech.

Prosecutors say Clancy used exercise bands to strangle her kids before jumping out of a window in a suicide attempt. First responders located Clancys three children in the basement, unconscious, and with obvious signs of severe trauma.

Shock and pain: Husband of Duxbury mother charged in childrens deaths gives statement

Investigators ultimately obtained an arrest warrant for Clancy and she was taken into custody.

The state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined that the cause of death to Cora and Dawson was asphyxia, and the cause of death to Callan was complications of asphyxia.

After the alleged murders, Reddington said that his client suffered serious spinal injuries that left her paralyzed.

Shock and pain: Husband of Duxbury mother charged in childrens deaths gives statement

Stand by her: In letters, dozens show support for Duxbury mom accused of killing her 3 children

Just two days before Clancys Tewksbury Hospital hearing, the Plymouth District Court unsealed 299 pages of records that revealed eleven search warrants that were issued back in January and kept confidential.

The warrants were used to collect exercise bands, medications, computers, notebooks, phones, a belt, a bathrobe, and pajamas. Other evidence collected in the search included a silver knife and several swabs taken from red and brown stains found throughout the home.

A Tewksbury Hospital doctor called in to the arraignment and gave her professional opinion that Clancy should remain hospitalized for psychiatric care, as shes expressed feelings of depression, worthlessness, and has talked of suicide.

Plymouth Superior Court Judge William Sullivan agreed  setting no bail but ordering Clancy held at the hospital.

Clancy is due back in court on Dec. 15.

She killed the kids!: Duxbury mother strangled 3 children with exercise bands, prosecutor says

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Lindsay Clancy, of Duxbury, who is accused of murdering her three children, continues to be held without bail and was committed to Tewksbury Hospital for the next six months after she pleaded not guilty at her arraignment from the hospital Thursday.

Her next appearance is scheduled for Dec. 15.

Prosecutors say Clancy, 33, strangled her kids Jan. 24 and then took a phone call from her husband after she sent him out to CVS before he picked up dinner in North Plymouth in what prosecutors alleged at the hearing was a deliberate plan to get him out of the house.

During the arraignment, it was revealed that while Lindsay Clancy was on several anti-depressant and related medications, the levels of some of the medications were on the low end of expected levels when her blood was collected at South Shore Hospital.

Two other medications showed peak levels at the time, which prosecutors said was an indication of her having taken them after the killings.

She was indicted last month for killing her children, Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and Callan, 8 months. She is charged with with three counts each of murder and strangulation.

The arraignment of Lindsay Clancy for murder of her three young children via video from her hospital room in Boston to Plymouth Court on Tuesday February 7, 2023

Clancy has remained hospitalized with injuries she suffered after the killings when she fell from a second-floor bedroom window of the home at 47 Summer St. after holding onto the ledge before either losing her grip or letting go, prosecutors said.

She had cuts to her wrists and neck, which were not life threatening, prosecutors said. A bloody knife was found on the nightstand by her window.

Her lawyer, Kevin Reddington, said the fall left her paralyzed, and she appeared in a wheelchair during the arraignment. While able to speak and move her head, it is unclear how much of her body suffered paralysis.

The two older children were taken to Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Plymouth and pronounced dead. Callan Clancy was flown to Boston Children's Hospital, where he died soon after.

Clancy had searched "ways to kill" and "can you treat a psychopath?" online before the children's deaths, according to police and prosecutors.

The chief medical examiner said the children died from asphyxia. Exercise bands were used to strangle them, authorities said. Bands were collected from the home, according to police records.

Prosecutors, defense paint 2 different pictures of Lindsay Clancy

An evaluation of Clancy conducted at Rhode Island Hospital after the killings determined she did not have clinical postpartum depression and instead classified her as having general anxiety disorder, a catchall term encompassing any number of anxiety and depression symptoms.

Reddington, who said in May that his client did have postpartum, disputed the contradicting evaluation.

Its a joke, he said of the hospitals diagnosis.

He said both Lindsay and Patricks parents had stayed at the home for weeks to help the couple take care of the kids and keep an eye on Lindsay.

She was unable to function in the home and out of his house, he said, adding that as a nurse, Lindsay Clancy knew how to keep track of medication records.

Kevin Reddington is the attorney defending Lindsay Clancy.

Because she knew how to take notes in the journal doesnt mean she wasnt suffering, he said.

The prosecution countered that Lindsay Clancy had been able to function normally the day of the killings, playing with her children outdoors and taking one of them to a pediatricians appointment.

They said she had searched the distance from the home to ThreeV restaurant in North Plymouth even though they had gotten food from there multiple times, in order to give her a timeline in which to commit the killings after her sending her husband out on errands.

She did not take advantage of a situation, Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague said. She created it.

Prosecutors further noted that fatal strangulation takes several minutes and requires sustained pressure, even after someone passes out.

Dawson, they said, showed physical signs of more damage from the strangulation than his siblings did, including more severe bruising and discoloration around his face and neck.

Dawson struggled or fought more for life, or (Clancy) strangled him harder, or both, Sprague said. She could have stopped at any time. She could heave helped at any time, but she did not.

A doctor was asked to evaluate Lindsay Clancy's most recent mental state, which showed her to still be depressed with non-specifical ideations, a flat affect, flashbacks to the killings and an overall sense of hopelessness and worthlessness.

Both sides agreed during the arraignment that, at a minimum, she continues to present a danger to herself if not others.

Documents unsealed in Clancy case

Nearly 300 pages of documents released Tuesday include almost a dozen search warrants that were previously kept confidential.

The warrants covered a search of the Summer Street home, where DNA was collected from Lindsay's clothing and fingernails, along with several suspected blood stains on the floor and other areas of the home. Blood and urine samples were taken from her at the hospital.

Police also collected laptops and tablets from the home, along with Lindsay's iPhone. Police received permission from the court to bring in forensic experts to review the devices' contents.

Police discovered notebooks in the home belonging to Clancy's that kept track of her medications and included entries describing her thoughts of suicide, according to court documents.

Patrick Clancy recalls the night

Patrick and Lindsay Clancy had been married for six years at the time of the children's deaths.

Patrick told police they had "an amazing marriage" and "got along great," although he was well aware of her mental health struggles, even if not the full extent.

He told police he had been in the house with his wife all day. He said he did not notice her acting in any way that day to suggest what he would come home to after going to CVS and picking up a dinner order at ThreeV restaurant in North Plymouth.

He said he came home and found the house unusually quiet. He went up to their bedroom, where he saw a bloody knife on a nightstand next to an open window.

He ran outside the house and discovered his wife lying face up the ground and unresponsive, at which point he called 911, according to the police report.

When police arrived, they said Patrick Clancy called out to them from where his wife was on the ground.

The police report details how Patrick Clancy then went inside the home and to the basement, which was used as a weight room, office and living room.

The officers reported hearing screaming when Patrick Clancy discovered his children unresponsive in the basement.

The police report said Patrick Clancy could be heard saying, "Oh, my God. Oh, my god," and "She killed the kids."

Documents released: Read the 300 pages for yourself

Lindsay Clancy searches 'ways to kill' amid medication struggle

Reddington, said in May that Clancy suffers from postpartum depression and was overmedicated at the time.

While the postpartum diagnosis is not referenced in the court dockets, Patrick Clancy told police his wife began experiencing anxiety ahead of her planned return to work as a labor and delivery nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital following her maternity leave.

Lindsay Clancy kept written track of the numerous anti-depression and anti-anxiety medications she had been put on at various times. The list included Valium, trazadone, Klonopin, Prozac, Seroquel and lorazepam, according to the documents.

At the time of the children's deaths, she was on four of those medications. Police said that she appeared to be taking them as prescribed.

Patrick Clancy told police he felt she was put on too may medications, a number of which can have the unintended effect in some people of worsening depression symptoms to the point where suicidal thoughts may occur.

"Lindsay had the worst side effects possible" from the medications, he told police.

Patrick Clancy said she told him the month before the killings that she had been having thoughts of hurting herself and the children. He said she checked herself in to McLean Hospital for psychiatric evaluation from Jan. 1-5.

Her behavior was concerning enough to her husband that he began confiding in a college friend of 10 years with whom he had almost daily in-person and online contact, Patrick Clancy told police in an interview.

According to the police interview with the friend, Patrick Clancy worried that his wife was also suffering withdrawal symptoms from going off some of the medications.

The friend and his wife had hosted the couple for a dinner at their home the weekend before the killings.

The friend was surprised she had come given the depression and isolation issues Patrick Clancy had told him about, according to the police interview.

Like Patrick Clancy, the friend noticed she was withdrawn but otherwise seemingly in a non-dangerous state of mind.

He told police his wife appeared to be "fairly normal" and "mostly quiet, on the phone keeping to herself."

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Duxbury mother Lindsay Clancy pleads not guilty to killing her 3 kids
The Lithuanian government moved on Wednesday to discard a controversial law dubbed by critics as the "gay propaganda" law.

The notorious legislation - passed in 2009 - shields minors from information about same-sex marriage and LGBTQI issues.

Controversy surrounds its provision against info that expresses contempt for family values [or] encourages... entry into a marriage and creation of a family other than stipulated in the Constitution.

Critics say it is homophobic and curbs freedom, though the 'Law on the Protection of Minors from Negative Public Information' does not explicitly mention the LGBTQ+ community.

This is the provision the Justice Ministry wants to amend.

Similar legislation was introduced in Russia to purportedly protect children from "gay propaganda", which rights groups say has caused "significant stigma and harm toward LGBT people" and curbed freedom of expression, well-being and security.

Lithuania's Justice Ministry was prompted to act, following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) that the law violated the right to free expression.

The international court assessed the legislation after it was used to censor a children's book, titled Amber Heart, which contained lines about same-sex relationships and marriage.

ECHR judges challenged the Lithuanian government's argument that one story in the book, written by the late lesbian writer Neringa Dangvyde Macate, had promoted same-sex families over others.

The story instead advocated respect for and acceptance of all members of society in a fundamental aspect of their lives, namely a committed relationship, they said.

LGBT rights are a contentious issue within Lithuanian politics, amid perceived legal and social discrimination against the community inside the country.

According to a 2022 study commissioned by the Free Society Institute, more than 70% of Lithuanians are against same-sex partnerships - one of the highest rates in Europe.

Ausrine Armonaite, leader of the liberal Freedom Party, said she hoped the proposal to remove the controversial provision would fracture the coalition government, composed of her party, the conservative TS-LKD and Liberal movement.

It will be very bad if the parliament fails to pass the amendment, she was quoted as saying by LRT, Lithuania's public broadcaster.

We will continue to stagnate where we are now, Armonaite added. We aim for genuine, real freedom in Lithuania.

A survey from 2020 by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) found that 44% of Lithuania's LGBT community had experienced harassment compared to the EU average of 38%.

Lithuania had an annual pride celebration in July, which drew around ten thousand people onto the streets.

Were here to celebrate pride, freedom and love, one demonstrator told Euronews at the time. It's ok if you are not ready to go to the Pride. But we hope this demonstration is helpful for others who feel they should be hidden.

Around 60% in Lithuania say that LGBTI prejudice and intolerance have dropped in their country in the last five years. It is 40% across the EU-28, according to the FRA.
Gabrielius Landsbergis, Lithuanias Minister for Foreign Affairs, has called on European Union member states to avoid slowing down the supply of ammunition to Ukraine because North Korea has to date given more ammunition to Russia than the EU has to Ukraine.

Source: Gabrielius Landsbergis on X, as reported by European Pravda

Quote: "The EU promised Ukraine 1,000,000 artillery rounds. So far, we have delivered only 300,000. Meanwhile, North Korea delivered 350,000 to Russia."

Details: Landsbergis added that the EU "surely" has the resources "to outperform North Korea". "We should stop being frozen in the headlights while brave Ukrainians die," he wrote.

Previously: Landsbergis made the comment after Bloomberg reported that the EU was falling behind its plan to provide Ukraine with one million artillery shells by March 2024.

Background:

Bloomberg reported that the EU has so far provided about 30% of the planned amount of ammunition to Ukraine and said that the Union was at risk of not reaching its target of one million artillery shells.

Meanwhile, NATO is pushing member states to abandon protectionist policies and agree on a single standard for artillery ammunition to ramp up its production.

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Israeli Iron Dome air defense system fires to intercept a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip, in central Israel, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty)

More airstrikes have ravaged swaths of the Gaza Strip, and residents are running out of food, water and other supplies. The bombardment continued as the Israeli military said its troops and tanks briefly entered northern Gaza to prepare for a full-scale incursion, the Israeli raid since the war began more than two weeks ago.

Meanwhile the U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to the Pentagon.

A senior Hamas official told The Associated Press that the Palestinian militant group needs greater intervention from its allies, including Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, in its war with Israel.

The war, now in its 20th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said Thursday that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far  more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids following Hamas surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel.

The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas attack. Israel's military has raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released so far.

Currently:

Heres whats happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

US STRIKES IRAN-LINKED SITES IN SYRIA IN RETALIATION FOR ATTACKS ON US TROOPS

The U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said.

The strikes come in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

The U.S. wants to hit Iranian-backed groups suspected of targeting the U.S. to deter future aggression, possibly fueled by Israels war against Hamas, while also working to avoid inflaming the region and provoking a wider conflict.

EGYPTIAN STATE MEDIA SAYS 5 HURT IN EXPLOSION AT RESORT TOWN ON BORDER WITH ISRAEL

An explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba on the border with Israel, wounding five people, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday.

The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

AIRSTRIKES IN GAZA: AMBULANCES, CHAOS AND TWISTED METAL

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip  A cloud of grey dust fills a street as men and ambulances rush to the site of an Israeli airstrike. An AP videojournalist sprints beside them, the chaos growing more intense as they draw closer to the destroyed residence.

Dozens of people pick their way across the remains of the building, which has been reduced to a jumble of concrete and metal. They scramble to pull the living and the dead from the wreckage.

A survivor, his face chalk-white with dust and eyes wide open, is carried in a blanket to a waiting ambulance. A woman who can still walk is led away from the blast area, with a man throwing a blanket over her shoulders. Wheres the ambulance? someone yells.

Israeli airstrikes on Thursday hit a densely populated refugee camp in Gazas southern city of Khan Younis, leveling more than eight homes belonging to the extended Abu Shamala family and killing at least 15 people.

PENTAGON SAYS AIR BASE IN IRAQ SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGE AFTER ATTEMPTED ATTACK

WASHINGTON  The Pentagon said Thursday that there was an attempted attack at Irbil air base in Iraq but there were no casualties and only minor damage to the facilities.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, declined to detail which Iranian-backed groups may be responsible for the recent spate of attacks at bases in Iraq and Syria.

He said there have been at least 12 attacks in Iraq and four in Syria, and 21 U.S. personnel sustained minor injuries in two separate attacks early last week. Of those, 19 had some type of traumatic brain injury, and all 21 returned to duty.

There have been no reported injuries since those two attacks on Oct. 17-18.

FAMILY OF 6 AMERICANS TRAPPED IN GAZA PLEAD FOR HELP FROM BIDEN

ANAHEIM, Calif.  Family members of six American citizens trapped in Gaza pleaded Thursday for President Joe Biden to help their relatives get out from what started as a long-awaited vacation and turned into a horrific nightmare of bombardments and smoke.

Shamiss Kaoud, 33, of Moreno Valley, California, said she and her sister have been calling the U.S. State Department daily to try to get her 68-year-old father, Jamal, his four brothers and one of her cousins evacuated from the war zone.

No one is listening. No one is helping. Its as if nobody cares, she told reporters at a press conference in Anaheim, California. Shouldnt being a U.S. citizen matter?

The group traveled to Gaza in late September to visit family and has since gone three times to Gaza's Rafah crossing but been unable to get out.

Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in greater Los Angeles, said the State Department has estimated 600 Palestinian Americans are stuck in Gaza.

The life of every citizen in America should be the priority of our government, he said.

US WILL RESPOND TO RECENT ATTACKS ON TROOPS STATIONED IN MIDEAST AT TIME OF OUR CHOOSING, WHITE HOUSE SAYS

WASHINGTON  A White House spokesman said Thursday that the United States would respond at a time of our choosing and a manner of our choosing to a recent spate of attacks said to have been carried out by Iranian-backed groups against U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East.

The blunt warning from White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby came a day after President Joe Biden said Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been directly warned that the U.S. would respond if Iran or its proxies continued to attack U.S. troops. Attacks on U.S. troops in the region have increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.

Asked on Thursday to provide further details on how that message was delivered to Khamenei, Kirby declined to elaborate.

IRAQI MILITIA SAYS IT ATTACKED BASE HOUSING US TROOPS

BAGHDAD  An Iranian-backed militia says it carried out an attack Thursday with two suicide drones against a base housing U.S. troops in northern Iraq.

The Islamic Resistance, an umbrella group for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it attacked the American occupation base near the airport of the city of Irbil with two drones that directly hit their targets.

It gave no further details.

The past week has seen more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria. Most were claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against U.S. backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

CYPRUS PITCHES LINKING ITS MAIN PORT TO GAZA AS A HUMANITARIAN AID CORRIDOR

NICOSIA, Cyprus  Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides says the island nation is ready to act as a hub for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Christodoulides told reporters in Brussels on Thursday that he proposed to fellow European Union leaders the establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor linking Cyprus main port of Limassol to Gaza. The Cypriot president said he discussed the idea with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

Government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis told The Associated Press that EU leaders showed interest in the proposal.

DISPLAYS AND DEMONSTRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD SPOTLIGHT PLIGHT OF HOSTAGES

PARIS  The absence of more than 200 people held hostage by Hamas is being felt  and seen  in places around the world.

Thirty empty baby strollers were displayed on a lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower on Thursday, each with a photo of one of the children being held. Two hundred empty plastic chairs were also lined up outside the United Nations' European headquarters in Geneva with photos of the missing.

Family members and Jewish groups are keeping the spotlight on the people taken captive by Hamas militants Oct. 7 as Israel continues to pound the Gaza Strip with airstrikes and prepares for a ground invasion.

Our goal is to  raise the level of public awareness regarding the situation of these children, Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France, said of the Eiffel Tower display. It is not acceptable to have hostages, and it is even more unacceptable to have children hostages.

Arfis group also arranged empty baby carriages in the French coastal cities of Nice and Marseille.

A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

Demonstrators and family members of hostages taken from the kibbutz Kfar Azza called Thursday for their release in a street protest in Tel Aviv.

A poster said 62 people from the kibbutz had been slain, 17 were kidnapped and one was missing. Hundreds more were wounded.

I want my brother back, said Ido Shamriz, brother of Alon Shamriz. I want him (back) now. Bring all the kidnapped people now to Israel, now.

IRAN'S FOREIGN MINISTER SAYS IT STANDS READY TO PLAY ITS PART IN RELEASE OF HOSTAGES

UNITED NATIONS  Irans foreign minister says Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel and is stressing that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 taken captive.

Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime."

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

But I warn, if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, Amirabdollahian said. It is our home, and west Asia is our region. We do not compromise with any party and any side, and we have no reservation when it comes to our home security.

RUSSIAN AND IRANIAN OFFICIALS MEET IN MOSCOW TO DISCUSS ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

MOSCOW  A senior Iranian diplomat discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip with a Kremlin Mideast envoy Thursday.

Irans Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri met with Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who serves as the Kremlin envoy for the Middle East.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said diplomats emphasized the need for a cessation of hostilities in and around the Gaza Strip and the prompt provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected Palestinian population.

It added that they also reaffirmed a shared commitment by Moscow and Tehran to continue close coordination of efforts in the interests of stabilizing the situation in the Middle East.
At least 18 people were killed in shootings at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night, sparking a massive search for the suspect. Late Thursday, heavily armed law enforcement backed by a police helicopter had surrounded a home and told anyone who might be inside to surrender, but authorities eventually left without indicating anyone had been taken into custody.

10:40

We dont know for sure. Follow for live updates.

WHAT TO KNOW

 Authorities are searching towns, forests and waterways for the suspect.

 Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened.

 Social media posts spread an incorrect photo of the Maine suspect.

 Maine passed a law to try to prevent mass shootings, but some say more is needed.

 The shooting is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year.

LEWISTON SCHOOLS WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, SUPERINTENDENT SAYS

Lewiston Public Schools will be closed again on Friday, according to a post by Superintendent Jake Langlais on the districts website.

We remain in a shelter in place situation, the post said. We will not open buildings or run bus transportation.

The superintendent said students and staff have been directly impacted by the shooting and the events since 7 p.m. Wednesday are unimaginable.

School officials in Maines largest city of Portland will decide by 5 a.m. Friday whether to open based on information received from police, according to a post on the districts website.

Bates College in Lewiston also canceled classes Friday and postponed the inauguration of the schools first Black president, Garry Jenkins, the school's website said.

OFFICERS HAVE LEFT HOME THEY SURROUNDED, SAYING THEY WERE EXECUTING A SEARCH WARRANT

Most of the law enforcement officers and a helicopter that surrounded a home connected to a relative of the suspect in the Maine shootings have left after executing a search warrant and calling for anyone inside to surrender.

Officers had yelled through a megaphone at the home near Bowdoin, Maine, for suspect Robert Card or anyone inside to Come out with your hands up.

Maine State Police said afterward that the announcements were standard.

It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search, the statement posted on Facebook said.

Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the searches were taking place in Bowdoin, said he knows the Card family and that Robert knows the terrain well.

This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here. He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket, he said.

OFFICERS AT HOME WHERE SUSPECTS RELATIVES LIVE CALL FOR SURRENDER

Heavily armed officers surrounding a home where relatives of the suspect in the Maine shootings live near Bowdoin, Maine, are calling for a person or people inside to surrender.

Law enforcement officers asked TV crews to turn off their lights nearby before officers could be heard yelling into a megaphone shortly after 7 p.m.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, officers shouted outside the home owned by suspect Robert Cards relatives.

Officers were speaking through the megaphone, waiting, then speaking again. At one point, officers said they could guarantee safety if the person or people walked outside the house.

FBI, OTHER OFFICERS GATHER AT HOME WHERE SUSPECT'S RELATIVES LIVE

Several FBI agents and other heavily armed officers gathered off a road where several relatives of shootings suspect Robert Card live near Bowdoin, Maine.

A military-style vehicle and a white van arrived and moments later someone repeatedly yelled, FBI! Open the door!

Loud booms could be heard a few seconds apart as helicopters circled overhead. Nearby, several armed police officers stood on alert in the back of a pickup truck.

HOSPITAL TREATS PATIENTS INJURED IN SHOOTINGS

Eight people injured in the Maine shootings remained hospitalized at Central Maine Medial Center on Thursday afternoon, officials said.

Hospital officials said five of the patients are in stable condition and three are critical. The hospital has not released the ages of the patients. All of the patients had been identified by late afternoon, said Dr. John Alexander, the chief medical officer.

Alexander said the hospital is not used to dealing with this level of emergency care, but the staff was trained for it.

Its unprecedented in terms of the severity of the injuries and the tragedy to the community, he said.

COAST GUARD SEARCHES BY BOAT AS SHOOTING SUSPECT REMAINS AT LARGE

Authorities have been searching both on land and water for the suspect in Wednesday's shootings in Maine that killed 18 people.

The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River. But after hours of searching, authorities found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station.

The suspect's car had been discovered by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and his 15-foot (4.5-meter) boat remains unaccounted for, Smith said.

But he added that officials didnt have any specific intelligence that the suspect, Robert Card, might have escaped aboard his boat. Were just doing our due diligence, he said.

LEWISTON WOMAN SHELTERS AT HOME WHILE MOURNING AND PRAYING

Standing outsider her Lewiston home Thursday while police searched for the suspect in the Maine shootings, April Stevens cried as she described being frustrated and worried.

Stevens, who lives close to the scene of the shootings, said she knew someone who was killed at the bar and another person who was injured and needed surgery.

Were praying for everyone. Were just hoping everyone gets through this, that the people who are injured recover safely, she said. Our hearts go out to all of those who didnt make it.

Stevens said she was working from home Thursday while authorities continued their search for the suspect. She said she locked her doors and turned on her home's outside lights Wednesday night in case the shooter was nearby.

We're just here to support our friends if they need us. If they need a hug  they need anything  we're here, she said.

CANADA WARNS BORDER AGENTS TO BE ON LOOKOUT FOR MAINE SUSPECT

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA  The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for the man suspected of fatally shooting at least 18 people in southern Maine.

The shootings were reported Wednesday night in Lewiston, about 260 kilometers (161 miles) southwest of the New Brunswick border. As a massive search continued Thursday for suspect Robert Card, residents of southern Maine were told to lock their doors and remain inside.

The CBSA says it is working with Canadian and U.S. law enforcement partners, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to protect Canadas borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry.

The Canadian border agency said that all entry points along the Canada-U.S. border remain open.

MAINE LAWMAKERS VOW TO ENSURE SIMILAR TRAGEDY WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN

State lawmakers in Maine, which has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates, called the mass shootings that killed at least 18 people a tragedy and urged unity in the face of crisis.

State Rep. Mana Abdi of Lewiston, the first Somali American elected to the Maine Legislature, and fellow Democratic Reps. Margaret Craven and Michel Lajoie said in a joint statement that they were committed to ensuring that a tragedy like this will never happen to another community ever again.

We are deeply thankful to all of the first responders, law enforcement and hospital staff who responded swiftly, and will continue to keep all of our neighbors, families and friends who have been affected in our hearts, they said.

Republican state Rep. Laurel Libby, who represents nearby Auburn, said the community was in shock and the loss the state is facing is just unfathomable. Libby also said this was not the time to talk about the states gun culture.

Were already seeing our community really rallying together in support. I know that same spirit will carry us on through, but its really not a time for guessing at motives at this point and pointing fingers, Libby said.

BIDEN URGES RESIDENTS IN SEARCH AREA TO HEED LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNINGS

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Thursday urged residents of the area where police are searching for the suspect in the Maine mass shootings to heed the warning of local law enforcement.

For countless Americans who have survived gun violence and been traumatized by it, a shooting such as this reopens deep and painful wounds, he said in a statement, adding that he and first lady Jill Biden were praying for the families of the victims. Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.

Biden once again called for the passage of a ban of so-called assault weapons. The president also ordered flags at half-staff to honor the victims of the shooting.

OFFICIAL: POLICE TOOK SUSPECT FOR EVALUATION AFTER ERRATIC BEHAVIOR IN JULY

WASHINGTON  A U.S. Army reservist suspected of killing at least 18 people in Maine had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Robert Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

 Associated Press writer Lolita Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.

ARREST WARRANT ISSUED FOR SUSPECT IN MAINE SHOOTING

An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder has been issued for the suspect in the shootings at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant, according to state police.

As more victims are identified, the counts against suspect Robert Card will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Police responded to a very fast moving, very dangerous scene, Ross said, noting that seven people were found dead at the bowling alley and eight at the bar, including one victim who was outside. All had gunshot wounds. Three people who were taken to hospitals also died, Ross said.

MAINE GOV. MILLS SAYS SHOOTING DEATH TOLL RISES TO 18

The death toll in the shooting at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant has risen to 18 people killed, according to Gov. Janet Mills. Another 13 were injured in the shootings Wednesday night, she said.

Mills said law enforcement is still searching for shooting suspect Robert Card, who is considered armed and dangerous.

The governor warned that people should not approach Card under any circumstances. She asked people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

The full weight of her administration is behind the law enforcement effort to capture Card and hold whoever is responsible accountable and seek justice for the victims and their families, Mills said.

We cannot and we will not rest in this endeavor, Mills said.

MAINE SHOOTING ANGERS PARENT OF COLLEGE STUDENT

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College in Lewiston, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed.

Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son spoke and texted late into the night and he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured, the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.
"LNR" militant

A Ukrainian citizen from Luhansk Oblast, who fought on the side of the so-called "Luhansk Peoples Republic," was sentenced to 15 years in prison with property confiscation, Kyiv city Prosecutors Office reported via Facebook on Oct. 25.

The court found that in April 2022, while on Russia-occupied Kryshtalevyi, Luhansk Oblast, the man voluntarily signed a contract to serve as a rifleman in the so-called LNR militia.

Read also: Former DNR fighter detained as part of propagandist Prilepins car bombing

He then relocated with other unit members for combat training at the Hirnyk military training center. There, he was issued an AKM-74 assault rifle and Russian military uniform.

Read also: Russian Defense Minister Shoigu reportedly visits occupied Donetsk Oblast

Acting on behalf of different enemy units in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts, the combatant participated in the seizure and patrolling of Ukrainian territories. He set up and reinforced checkpoints and helped fortify firing positions in those regions, according to the prosecution.

The prosecutor's office noted that in May 2023, during a battle with Ukrainian forces near Avdiivka, Donetsk Oblast, he ceased armed resistance and surrendered his weapon.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The principal of a local school recently slept on the schools roof after challenging his students to a fundraising goal.

>> DeWine orders flags be lowered in remembrance of Maine mass shooting victims

Stephen Sippel, principal of Central Academy in Middletown, challenged his students to raise $10,000 during a walk-a-thon, the school district said in a social media post. In return, he promised to camp out on the schools roof overnight.

According to the school district, the students won.

>> RELATED: Local high school principal sleeps on roof after students exceed fundraising challenge

Brookville High Schools principal, Jason Stephan, also had to sleep on the roof of the high school last month after losing to a similar bet with his students.

 In case you missed it, Principal Stephen Sippel recently spent the night on the roof of Central Academy, after... Posted by Middletown City Schools on Tuesday, October 24, 2023




Protestors blocked the road into the town (APA/AFP via Getty Images)

Locals in the Austrian town that was rumoured to have inspired Disneys Frozen have taken to protesting in the streets against overtourism.

Residents of Hallstatt are fed-up with crowds flocking to their home town, part of a Unesco World Heritage Site thats home to a permanent population of just 800 but which sees up to 10,000 tourists pouring in each day during peak season, reports Insider.

Photos from the pretty town, on the shores of an Alpine lake and bordered by mountains, show protestors blocking a tunnel through which the main road into the town runs.

This summer, activists held signs with various messages, including radical limits for mass tourism, tourism yes  mass tourism no, and visitors limitation, reclaim habitat.

Its not the first time that Hallstatt locals have taken steps to battle overtourism. In May, two wooden fences were constructed at the foot of the Salzkammergut Mountains to obstruct lakeside views of the area  stopping people from posing in front of the famous selfie backdrop.

However, after backlash on social media, the fences were removed.

The towns mayor previously introduced a cap on the number of tour buses and cars allowed to enter the area.

In 2006, Hallstatt featured in a South Korean romantic drama, bringing it to the attention of audiences in Asia, with a replica of the town even being built in Guangdong, China, in 2011.

But it was catapulted to worldwide fame after a rumour spread that the fictional kingdom of Arendelle in the 2013 movie Frozen was based on Hallstatt  despite the art director of the film revealing they travelled to Norway and Canada for inspiration.

Many places in Europe have been introducing measures to tackle the issue of overtourism, such as Venice. Last month, the Italian city announced that day-trippers will be charged 5 to enter the historic centre from next year under long-awaited plans.

According to Responsible Travel, 20 million visitors flood Venice each year. On its busiest days, around 120,000 people can visit  dwarfing the 55,000-strong community of permanent residents.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw is back to try to restore order to the TVA in an exclusive clip from the upcoming episode of Disney+s Loki.

In the clip embedded below, Mbatha-Raws character Ravonna Renslayer comes back from her stint in the past to rescue the captured TVA elite who are now at the mercy of Hunter B-15 (Wunmi Mosaku). Renslayer, who is still a devotee to Kang the Conqueror (Jonathan Majors) and his Sacred Timeline, tells the captured workers (and fellow Sacred Timeline devotees) that she can help them escape being B-15s prisoners and earn a space on the Timeline if they want it.

This season of Loki raises the stakes when it comes to the lore around the Sacred Timeline, Kang, and Lokis (Tom Hiddleston) place in all of it.

Weve been able to tell more Kang variant-related storytelling than any other project in the MCU to this point, Loki producer Kevin Wright told Shadow and Act regarding how much this season will reveal about Kang, his lore, and his ultimate plans. So for us, it was about continuing and paying off the story that we started in Season 1 and, and allowing there to be further fuel for the fire that maybe other stories could tell.

Its hard to say without spoiling where our show goes. But for us, it [telling the Kang variant storyline] was central to the Loki story weve been telling for nowover 12 episodes, he added. So theres a lot more there for a story to be told, I think.

The series also stars Ke Huy Quan as Ouroboros (aka OB), the mechanic behind all of the gadgets in the TVA. The series also stars Eugene Cordero, Sophia Di Martino, Owen Wilson, Tara Strong, Neil Ellice, Kate Dickie and Liz Carr.

New episodes of Loki stream Thursdays at 9 p.m. on Disney+.
The latest mass shooting to afflict the nation claimed about two dozen lives and left more than 50 others wounded Wednesday night, sending a small New England town into terror.

The carnage in Lewiston, Maine, began around 7 p.m., when the first of at least three shooting attacks was reported, according to the Lewiston Sun Journal. At least 22 were reported dead.

Cops first received calls about a shooter at a bowling alley, the Sun Journal reported. A short time later, another shooting struck a nearby bar and grill. A childrens event was happening at the bowling alley at the time of the violence, Lewiston Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN.

Maine State Police urged residents to shelter in place following reports of an active shooter in multiple locations.

Please stay inside your home with the doors locked, they wrote on social media. Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

A third shooting was reported at a Walmart Distribution Center shortly after 8 p.m. Sirens roared throughout town following reports of a possible fourth shooting around 9 p.m., according to the Sun Journal.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office posted a photo online of a suspect with an assault rifle wearing cargo pants and pointing the weapon. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Boston was assisting the response.

Robert Card, 40, was named as a suspect, according to the Sun Journal, though additional details were not immediately known.

I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said in a statement. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.

The violence left locals stunned.

It was just a fun night playing cornhole  its the last thing youre expecting, right? Kathy Lebel, owner of Schemengees Bar & Grille, told the Sun Journal. I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.

Lebel wasnt at her establishment at the time of the attack, but said a person walked in and started shooting, prompting staff to scramble.

The FBI field office in Boston said it was ready to assist, according to CNN.

The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance, the bureau said in a statement.

So far this year, the country has seen over 500 mass shootings, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Maine Sen. Angus King said he was deeply sad for Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors.

Maine's U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree echoed the sentiment.

I am closely monitoring the reports of mass shootings in Lewiston. The unfolding violence is shocking and I am holding the affected communities in my prayers, the lawmaker said in a statement.

_____
Lori Vallow Daybell sits during her sentencing hearing at the Fremont County Courthouse in St. Anthony, Idaho, July 31, 2023. On Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, an extradition warrant signed by Idaho Gov. Brad Little was delivered to other state officials, allowing Arizona officials to temporarily take custody of Daybell so she can face charges of conspiring to kill her estranged husband as well as her nieces ex-husband. | Tony Blakeslee, EastIdahoNews.com via Associated Press

Lori Vallow Daybell, the mother sentenced to life in prison this summer for the murder of her two children and another woman, may soon be extradited to Arizona, where she faces more conspiracy charges.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed an extradition warrant this week allowing the state of Arizona to take custody of Vallow Daybell. In addition to the six counts she was found guilty of in Idaho, Vallow Daybell faces two conspiracy to commit murder charges in Arizona for the death of her estranged husband, Charles Vallow, and the attempted murder of her nieces ex-husband, Brandon Boudreaux.

Related

It is hereby agreed by the undersigned, the Governor of the State of Idaho and the Governor of the State of Arizona, that Lori Vallow  will be extradited pursuant to this agreement from the State of Idaho to the State of Arizona for trial, reads the executive agreement, signed Oct. 31. Said fugitive may be transferred back and forth between the State of Arizona and the State of Idaho.

According to the agreement, Arizona will pay to transport Vallow Daybell.

Death of Charles Vallow deemed murder, not self-defense

Charles Vallow was killed by Lori Vallow Daybells brother, Alex Cox, in summer of 2019 in a shooting that was initially determined to be self-defense. Cox was never charged, and died of natural causes in December 2019.

During Vallow Daybells trial this spring, expert witnesses detailed several abnormalities surrounding Charles Vallows death.

Related

Nathan Duncan with the Chandler Police Department told the court he has never seen a shooting with so little blood, and that it appeared that Cox had not performed CPR on Charles Vallow. And when officers removed the body, there was a bullet hole in the floor, meaning it was likely Charles would have been laying on the ground when that second shot was fired.

An investigation was opened, revealing texts and calls suggesting Charles Vallow was killed because he was a dark spirit, a zombie, an accusation stemming from Vallow Daybells fringe religious beliefs that prosecutors say she used to justify murder.

In 2021, a grand jury in Arizona indicted Vallow Daybell for conspiracy to commit murder in connection to the shooting.

The attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux

In October 2019, not long after Charles Vallow was killed, Boudreaux was shot at while he was in his driveway, shattering his car window.

Boudreaux told prosecutors he was in the middle of a contentious divorce with Vallow Daybells niece, Melani Pawlowski. He had moved to a new house, the location of which was known to only about five people, he said. Besides his neighbor, Pawlowski would be one of the few people who knew of his location the day he was shot at.

In February 2022, a grand jury indicted Vallow Daybell with conspiracy to commit first-degree murder in connection to the shooting.

According to the two-page indictment, Vallow Daybell agreed with Alexander Cox that at least one of them or another would engage in conduct constituting the offense of First Degree Premeditated Murder.

In addition to the two Arizona incidents, Cox is believed by prosecutors to be an accomplice in the murders of Vallow Daybells two children, 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow and 17-year-old Tylee Ryan. Both children disappeared in September 2019  it was later discovered that they had been murdered and buried in a shallow grave behind the Rexburg home of Chad Daybell.

Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow Daybell were believed to be having an affair at the time. Prosecutors also say he pushed his own fringe religious beliefs.

In October 2019, Tammy Daybell was killed by what investigators said was asphyxiation in her sleep, though at the time her death was ruled natural. Just two weeks later, while her children were still unaccounted for, Lori Vallow married Chad Daybell on a beach in Hawaii.

That December, Tammy Daybells body was exhumed and Tylee and JJ were declared missing. A court ordered Vallow Daybell to produce her children by Jan. 30, 2020. She was arrested in Hawaii about four weeks later after she failed to comply.

On June 9, 2020, police executed a search warrant and found the bodies of Tylee and JJ buried in Daybells backyard. Chad Daybell was arrested that day. Nearly three years later, Vallow Daybell was found guilty on six counts.

Vallow Daybell is currently in the Pocatello Womens Correctional Center, after she was given three consecutive life sentences in July in connection to the murder of her two youngest children, 16-year-old Tylee Ryan and 7-year-old JJ Vallow, and Tammy Daybell, the spouse of Chad Daybell whom she later married.

She also received two life sentences for conspiring to murder her children and 10 years for grand theft, with those prison terms running concurrently to the life sentences for the three murder convictions.

An attorney for Vallow Daybell recently filed an appeal to the multiple life sentences, questioning her mental competency and claiming there were several issues during the trial.
For the fifth year in a row, Los Angeles has the dubious distinction of being the number one city in the nation when it comes to organized retail theft.

The annual report from the National Retail Federation, which surveyed 177 brands, found that the average shrink rate climbed from 1.4% in 2021 to 1.6% in the U.S. last year. Shrink rate is the industry term for lost inventory.

While that might not seem like a significant percentage change, the trade group says it represents an additional $18.2 billion in losses.

The San Francisco Bay Area was second for the third straight year. Sacramento was 7th.

Retail crime, violence and theft continue to impact the retail industry at unprecedented levels, NRF said in its report. The effects of these criminal acts are not isolated to large national brands or large metropolitan cities. Daily media reports show that no business is immune, and these issues touch retailers of all segments, sizes and locations across the United States.

Video shows the thieves rushing through the main floor of the Topanga Mall Nordstrom grabbing tens of thousands of dollars worth of items, and then running out the door. Aug. 12, 2023. (TNLA)

Store employees cleaning up after a mob of thieves swarmed a Nordstrom in Canoga Park during a destructive robbery on August 12, 2023. (Garret Jiroux)

Cell phone video shows a group of masked thieves rushing through the store, grabbing handfuls of perfumes and cologne, and then out the door. Sherman Oaks, California. Aug. 24, 2023. (Citizen)

Video shows a group of thieves rob a Nordstrom Rack in Riverside, California. July 10, 2023. (Riverside Police)

Thieves robbed the YSL store at the Americana at Brand on Aug. 9, 2023. (Katelynn Jasper)

Security video captured a mob of thieves ransacking a Nordstrom Rack in Riverside and escaping with thousands of dollars worth of designer handbags. (Riverside Police Department)

Nearly $200,000 worth of stolen merchandise from Victorias Secret and CVS stores were recovered while suspects tried to sell the items in downtown L.A. August 2023 (Los Angeles Police Department)

Indeed, the issue of flash mob style thefts has been part of the daily news cycle in metropolitan Los Angeles for quite some time but is becoming more common.

Thieves are constantly captured on video ransacking retailers, even in crowded shopping malls, with little regard for security or the fact that their actions are being recorded.

In August, a large group of thieves hit the Nordstrom at Westfield Topanga shopping mall in what amounted to a final straw for local authorities.

Within days, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, the Los Angeles Police Department, L.A. County Sheriffs Department and Glendale Police announced a new regional task force to combat organized retail theft.

Officials say the task force has already netted dozens of arrests of those who participated in the thefts and those who were fencing stolen goods.

Top Cities and Metropolitan Areas Affected by ORC in 2022 (Source: National Retail Federation)

Los Angeles San Francisco/Oakland Houston New York Seattle Atlanta Sacramento Chicago Denver Miami Albuquerque

While theft has an undeniable impact on retailer margins and profitability, retailers are highly concerned about the heightened levels of violence and threat of violence associated with theft and crime, the federation said. 88% percent of retailers report that shoplifters (overall) are somewhat more or much more aggressive and violent compared with one year ago.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A Louisville man has become the latest example of false theft claims that recently cost Hertz nearly $170 million in settlements after the company alleged he stole one of their vehicles and kept it for nearly three months when he had only rented the car for a day.

Blake Gober, a 33-year-old former Marine and political consultant, said he rented a car from Hertz in 2019 to move from West Virginia to northern Virginia, but returned it to an airport kiosk. The company claimed, however, that Gober kept the car for more than three months, despite reaching out to him several times to return the car with no success.

Gober was arrested on a felony theft charge last year and spent a week in jail, which he told CBS News he wouldn't wish on anyone.

"It was hell. It was the worst," he told CBS.

Following the report, the state prosecutor handling the case in West Virginia filed a motion to dismiss, saying the state had "lost confidence in the reliability of the information" the rental car company provided as a basis for the felony charges.

Gober said he originally rented a car to move from his former West Virginia home, but only had the car for a day and before returning it to the company's kiosk at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia.

Gober said he returned the car in the evening and left it there since there was no employee that could receive it, but believed he could do that since he is a Hertz Gold customer, said Travis Prince, one of Gober's defense attorneys.

"For Hertz to issue a warrant for my arrest and to put me and my family through this is unconscionable," Gober said in a statement.

Hertz claimed Gober never informed the company he had returned the car, claiming it had "reached out repeatedly to Mr. Gober regarding its car, including by email, texts, phone calls, and certified mail. Mr. Gober ignored all of Hertzs outreach, save one phone call during which he hung up on a Hertz representative when asked to return the vehicle."

Gober told his attorneys and the media he didn't recall getting any email, phone calls, or letters from Hertz, and that they must have used incorrect or outdated contact information. However, Hertz said that it used the information he provided at the time of his rental, and that one time he hung up on a company representative attempting to recover the car after identifying himself on the phone.

Further, the company emphasized that it didn't file a theft report with the police department in Morgantown, West Virginia, where Gober got the car, until 53 days after the due date following multiple failed attempts to reach him.

Hertz filed the police report on Jan. 13, 2020. A little over a month later, Gober claims the rental car mysteriously reappeared at an apartment building in Alexandria, Virginia, having amassed "a whopping 7,492 miles on it" since he'd left it at the airport.

Prince, the defense attorney, said Gober "was beyond shocked that these charges were out there."

"Our goal all along for Mr. Gober has been to secure his freedom and to prevent his incarceration for allegations that were false, and things he did not do," Prince said.

Asked if his client might seek damages against Hertz, he said: "There is no justice without accountability. So, to that end, we are currently exploring all of our options."

Naples Daily News reporter Laura Layden contributed.

Related: Hertz agrees to pay $168 million to settle false arrest claims by hundreds of customers

More: Lawsuit: New Hertz continues a pattern of false arrests for rental car theft

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Theft charges against Hertz customer dropped after CBS report
Hasan Minhaj has denied using fake racism to further his stand-up career.

In September, The New Yorker published a profile titled Hasan Minhajs emotional truths, which included quotes from the comedian, 38, revealing that certain details of his stand-up routines had been exaggerated and fabricated.

He was asked about several anecdotes used in his comedy. One, in particular, included a story told in his 2017 Netflix special Homecoming King about the time his prom dates parents spurned him, saying that they didnt want their daughter to take pictures with a brown boy.

Minhaj admitted that while the scenario hadnt happened, the storys emotional truth justified the fabricated elements.

After the article was released, numerous outlets picked up the story. Questions about Minhajs public persona were raised, as well as whether comedians should be more truthful with their material.

Now, in a 20-minute-long video, Minhaj has addressed the New Yorker article, apologising to fans and viewers who may have felt let down by the artistic choices in his stand-up.

With everything thats happening in the world, Im aware even talking about this now feels so trivial, the comedian said in the video. But being accused of faking racism is not trivial. Its very serious, and it demands an explanation.

Film Spirit Awards - Hasan Minhaj (2019 Invision)

To everyone who read that article, he continued, I want to answer the biggest question thats probably on your mind: Is Hasan Minhaj secretly a psycho? Underneath all that pomp, is Hasan Minhaj just a con artist who uses fake racism and Islamophobia to advance his career? Because after reading that article, I would also think that.

He explained that he took a beat to process the criticism generated from the article. I just want to say to anyone who felt betrayed or hurt by my stand-up, I am sorry. I made artistic choices to express myself and drive home larger issues affecting me and my community, and I feel horrible that I let people down, Minhaj added.

The reason I feel horrible is because Im not a psycho. But this New Yorker article definitely made me look like one. It was so needlessly misleading, not just about my stand-up, but also about me as a person. The truth is, racism, FBI surveillance and the threats to my family happened. And I said this on the record.

A spokesperson for The New Yorker told The Hollywood Reporter that their piece was carefully reported and fact-checked, and includes Hasan Minhajs perspective at length.

Hasan Minhaj confirmes in this video that he selectively presents information and embellishes to make a point: exactly what was reported, a New Yorker spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent.

Our piece, they continue, is based on interviews with more than twenty people, including former Patriot Act and Daily Show staffers; members of Minhajs security team; and people who have been the subject of his standup work, including the former FBI informant Brother Eric and the woman at the centre of his prom-rejection story. We stand by our story.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  Just a day after owners announced Local on the Square restaurant and bar would close on October 28, it appears another owner is already planning to move in.

Tim Quinn Jr. said he and his wife Tarrah will open Madison Tavern in that space at 2126 Madison Avenue in November. He said the new restaurant will be a friendly neighborhood establishment serving craft beers and affordable meals.

Quinn said they are taking over the remainder of the lease from the owner of Local on the Square, which has three years left on it. They plan to start painting and adding new furniture in the space as soon as Sunday.

Local on the Squares decision to close after 11 years took some businesses in Overton Square by surprise.

ORIGINAL STORY: Local on the Square closing after 11 years in business

Its been sitting there since I been working at this location, so to see a bigger name of the Square close down that suddenly is pretty surprising, said Peter Vidrine, who manages Memphis Pizza Cafe. It feels like it definitely happened quick.

The owner of Local on the Square gave no specifics when posting the announcement on Facebook, saying, Its been an amazing 11 years with all of you at Local on the Square. Thank you, Memphis for your longstanding support, the relationships forged and the memories made. We have cherished being a part of Overton Square, and wish the next business much success in this beautiful, historic building!

Its unknown if the closing is related to an incident in August when a customer reported finding live maggots on her food.

Maggots found in food at popular Midtown restaurant

Vidrine said he hates to see another Overton Square business close down.

Its not the only one thats done that. Belly Acres, whos behind us, they shut their Midtown location down as well, so its kind of a second one in a short amount of time, he said.

Belly Acres cited staffing, lack of customers, and safety issues for its closing in September. In addition to Belly Acres, Paulettes remains for lease as does the site once occupied by Hopdoddy Burger Bar.

But the news that Madison Tavern will soon occupy the Local on the Square site is good news for Robert Driver, the general manager at Lafayettes Music Room.

Whats good for the Square is good for Lafayettes and vice-versa so we hope to see somebody else filling up that spot soon and have some healthy competition going back on, Driver said.

We reached out several times to LPI Management which leases property in Overton Square about any updates on possible tenants for businesses that are now closed. We have not heard back.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has launched an armada of bad takes. Jonathan Cahn  an influential messianic rabbi who once prayed over Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago  is late to the party, but has uncorked one of the most bizarre rants since the beginning of the bloodshed.

In a new prophetic video, Cahn calls the initial Hamas attack demonic. But Cahn insists that the massacre of some 1,400 Jews has deep roots  stemming from the Israelis stubborn refusal  to accept Jesus .

Messianic Jews like Cahn uphold Jewish traditions, but tout Jesus as their savior. Speaking in front of green-screen images of the Holy Land, Cahn likens the helpless Jewish people to sheep without their Shepherd, who were unprotected when the wolves came to the flock. He paints this vulnerability as a problem of faith. What if the Jewish Messiah already came, he asks, and most of them missed it?

Only by turning to Yeshua (Jesus) as their Prince of Peace, Cahn insists, will the Jews of Israel find protection from the Enemy (Satan) who has long raged against the children of Israel. Invoking his own faith, Cahn alleges: Without Him, there is no peace, adding: Only when they turn to Him, who is the hope of Israel, will they find their shalom.

Far from a lonely internet crank, Cahn is the most prominent messianic Jew in America, religion scholar Matthew Taylor tells Rolling Stone. Cahn has gained notoriety as an end-times prophet. He is embraced by top figures on the religious right, and he has made deep inroads in MAGA world.

In addition to leading a congregation at his Jerusalem Center, Beth Israel, in Wayne, New Jersey, Cahn has surprising mainstream cred, writing a series of New York Times bestselling books. His shtick as an author is decoding current events as though they are somehow modeled on biblical stories.

Cahn first established himself as a cultural force with his bestselling 2012 book, The Harbinger, which explains 9/11 as a warning sign that God is removing his hedge of protection from America as a divinely favored nation because of cultural degeneracy. A far-right religious tract dressed up as a novel, The Harbinger got plugged by the likes of Pat Robertson and Mike Huckabee, and sold more than 2 million copies. His newest title is The Josiah Manifesto: The Ancient Mystery & Guide for the End Times.

Think of Cahn as one part Dan Brown, one part Jew for Jesus. Its a strange formula, but its been successful. And Cahn has built an avid audience of more than 800,000 YouTube subscribers. Despite its condemnable content, Cahns Israel-Hamas take went viral, earning more than 1 million views in less than a week.

What does it mean to be a messianic rabbi? Messianic Jews are typically ethnically Jewish, but Christian converts, believing that Jesus was, indeed, the messiah of the Old Testament. Todays messianic Jewish movement emerged from the hippie-inflected Jesus People of the 1960s and 70s.

Rather than an offshoot of Judaism, messianic Jews should be understood as charismatic Christians, who nonetheless cling to Jewish customs and holidays. The movement is viewed as offensive within much of mainstream Judaism. They see it as a missionary movement to convert Jews away from Judaism to Christianity, and they see that as deceptive, says Taylor, a senior scholar with the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies.

Efforts to reach Cahn through his congregation were unsuccessful. But Cahn outlined his biography and religious views during a recent interview on the Trinity Broadcasting Network. The son of a Jewish refugee  my father escaped Hitler, he explained  Cahn attended a synagogue as a child, but said he never felt Gods presence. As an atheist teen he became an avid reader of Nostradamus and science fiction. He stumbled upon Christianity by reading The Late Great Planet Earth, a hugely popular end-times prophecy book of the 1970s. And after a near-death experience as a teenager  in which his car, he said, was hit by a train, but he emerged unhurt  Cahn devoted his life to Jesus, whom he refers to by the Hebrew name Yeshua.

It is unclear what formal religious training Cahn has; one bio says simply hes known as pastor and rabbi. Cahns religious views are heavy on end-times theology. In this belief system, the return of the Jewish diaspora to Israel is a precondition of the second coming of Jesus. But Cahn avows that the messiah wont return until Israels Jews are also converted. He told the TBN audience: Jesus said, Im not coming again, guys, until you Jewish people say  Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

The audience for such messages are not Jews, but fellow far-right Christians. Cahn has become a celebrity in a charismatic Christian movement fetishizes parts of the Jewish religious experience  to the extent that some follow the Hebrew calendar, blow shofars, and observe Jewish holidays like Passover. In his TBN interview, Cahn spoke to this Christian hunger for connection to Israel, telling viewers, If youre born again, you are Jewish; you are spiritually Jewish. Thats not hype. The bible says you are a citizen of Israel more than youre anything else.

Taylor calls Cahn incredibly effective at activating evangelical fascination with Jews, and then leveraging that as a form of authority  that his interpretation of the Bible must be the right one, because hes a Jewish Christian.

Brad Onishi, a religion professor at the University of San Francisco and host of the Straight White American Jesus podcast, agrees. Onishi says of Cahn: He has double legitimacy in the charismatic Christian world. Cahn is seen as a prophet who has been called by God to speak: Hes actually a Jew who saw the light, and saw Jesus was the Messiah  they exist!, Onishi says, voicing the excitement he observes in Cahns followers. In this way, Cahn stands apart from other political leaders in the charismatic movement. Thats not something that Lance Wallnau, or Che Ahn, or Dutch Sheets, or any of the others can match, Onishi says. They dont have that clout.

In the MAGA age, Cahn made his mark by helping the religious right gain comfort with Donald Trump. Insisting that modern American politics could be seen as an echo of Old Testament tales, Cahn cast Hillary Clinton as Jezebel  an infamous worshiper of false idols  and Donald Trump as the avenger Jehu, who ultimately had Jezebel thrown out a window to her death.

In 2019, Cahn earned an invitation to Mar-a-Lago, where delivered a prophetic word to Trump himself. Purporting to channel the language of God, Cahn declared before the U.S. president: I have raised you up to be a Jehu to your nation. Calling on Trump to care for Israel, Cahn continued in the voice of God: My right hand will uphold you and you will fulfill the purposes for which I have placed you in your mothers womb, for such a time as this.

Cahns dark comments about the Hamas attack on Israel are deeply troubling to Onishi, who was raised in an evangelical church. Hes basically saying that the violence  the immeasurable, unthinkable violence done by Hamas  was somehow the fault of those who refuse to pay homage to the Savior that Cahn adheres to and worships. Onishi sees Cahns remarks as echoing an ugly, but consistent, throughline. We saw this after 9/11 with Jerry Falwell senior. We saw this with John Hagee after Hurricane Katrina.

For Onishi, Cahns comments lay bare a stark contradiction common to right-wing American Christians, who revere Israel  seeing it as critical to divine history  yet viewing Jewish people as failing their calling to worship Jesus, and ultimately not that important. Theres an overwhelming, explicit, uncontainable love for Israel, on the one hand, Onishi says, but on the other, a disregard for Jewish people.

More from Rolling Stone

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Maine authorities said multiple people were shot dead and dozens more wounded in a shootings Wednesday night at multiple locations.

Law enforcement officials told The Associated Press that at least 16 people are dead and dozens injured, noting that the death toll is expected to rise.

In a Facebook post, Maine State Police (MSP) said there was an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston, advising residents in the area to take shelter, stay inside their homes and to lock their doors.

Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911, MSP said in their post.

In a separate Facebook post, the Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office (ACSO) said it is investigating two active shooter events in the area, also sharing photos of the suspected shooter in its post.

We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate, ACSO wrote in its post. The suspect is still at large.

The officials also told the newswire that multiple people had also been wounded in the incidents, saying that investigators are working to gather evidence at the multiple crime scenes.

I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement, Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D) said in a post to X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.

The President has been briefed on whats known so far about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine and will continue to receive updates, the White House Press Office said in a statement.

This comes as Mane Sens. Susan Collins (R) and Angus King (I) made statements on the active shooter situation, with Collins urging residents to contact local authorities on the whereabouts of the suspect.

In a separate statement, King said he is deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors and is monitoring the situation, adding that he plans to head directly home to Maine once the Senates final vote is held Thursday afternoon.

This is a developing story.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Lewiston Maine Police Department Facebook via Reuters

A childrens bowling league was playing at a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night when a gunman opened fire, witnesses say, in the early stage of a multi-location shooting attack that left 18 people dead.

A massive police search was still underway Thursday for 40-year-old Robert Card, who is considered armed and dangerous. Card is accused of twin mass shootings in Lewiston at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar, about four miles away.

Manhunt: Suspect in Double Mass Shooting Is on the Run in Lewiston, Maine

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released images of the shooter entering the bowling alley wielding a black rifle. Authorities say he opened fire at about 6:56 p.m., then moved onto Schemengees just after 7 p.m.

Seven victims were found at the bowling alley with fatal gunshot woundsone female and six malesand eight male victims were found dead at Schemengees, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said. Their ages and identities were not released.

None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is, the bowling alley wrote in a Thursday morning post on their Facebook page. We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and whole hearted people from our bowling family and community last night. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We are praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts.

Witnesses inside the venue at the time described a scene of horror that tragically included wounded children.

Riley Dumont said her daughter was taking part in the childrens bowling league when she heard shots ring out. I heard a really loud bang, she told WMTW. I didnt think anything of it at the time, but my dad looked at me, Dumont said, explaining that her father is a retired police officer.

She said he saved lives by huddling a group into a corner. He put tables over us and just made sure we were safe, Dumont said. He just kind of went into action at that point. It felt like it lasted forever. She added that she lay on top of her daughter to protect her, while Dumonts own mother lay on top of her. Two other mothers and daughters were with them, she added.

Meghan Hutchinson said she too was in the bowling alley at the time of the shooting with her daughter Zoey, who was injured in the attack but was not seriously wounded. She was grazed by a bullet while we were running, Hutchinson told the station. We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massivewas bleeding profusely. So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She said the other parent called 911.

After the shooting stopped at the bowling alley, the carnage continued at Schemengees Bar & Grille.

My heart is crushed, read a post on the bars Facebook account early Thursday. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turn [sic] upside down for no good reason.

The post went on to say that great people in this community had been lost. How can we make any sense of this, it added. Sending out prayers to everyone.

Leroy Walker, a city councilman in Auburn, Maine, found out Thursday that his son Joseph, a manager at Schemengees, had been killed. He told The Daily Beast shortly before he got the news that he feared the worst.

Im going now to meet with my daughter-in-law, Walker said in a text message around 11 a.m.. Someone is coming to see her. I believe it is our notification that my son was one of the deceased.

Reports have referenced a bulletin released by the Maine Information and Analysis Center, a law enforcement database, which said that Card is a trained firearms instructor in the Army Reserve who had recently reported mental health issues which allegedly included hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, ME.

The bulletin said Card was reported to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks during the summer and subsequently released.

In an interview with The Daily Beast, Cards sister-in-law Katie Card described him as quiet... loving, hardworking, and kind but said hed had an acute episode of mental health in recent months.

He had recently began wearing powerful hearing aids to combat hearing loss. Since then, Card said her brother-in-law has been insisting to his family that he can hear people bashing himincluding at Just-In-Time Recreation and Schemengees.

The Lewiston Police Department also released an image of a white SUV on Wednesday night. It was later found at a boat launch in Lisbon, around eight miles from Lewiston.

A permit is not required to carry guns in Maine, a state that has a long history of firearm ownership and traditions of sport shooting and hunting. According to the Maine Department of Public Safety, the state recorded just 29 murders for the entirety of 2022.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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LEWISTON, Maine (NewsNation)  A gunman killed 18 people and injured 13 in two separate shootings Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, police said.

What we know about the suspect

Robert Card, 40, has been identified as a person of interest in the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Just-In-Time Recreation.

A white Subaru Outback, which was the last vehicle Card was seen driving, was discovered near the Lisbon boat dock situated on Frost Hill Avenue, in close proximity to Route 196. Witnesses reported observing police officers going door to door in the vicinity, making inquiries at nearby residences, according to the Sun Journal.

He is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Card is from Bowdoin, Maine, according to Commissioner Mike Sauschuck from the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Shelter-in-place issued across multiple cities

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office issued a shelter-in-place order for the entire county.

Lewiston Public Schools announced school will be canceled Thursday.

At this time, there will be no activity at Lewiston Schools Thursday October 26, 2023. There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety, the district announced on Facebook.

Trauma in Maine shooting will be devastating: Forensic analyst

Officials of the city of Auburn ordered all residents to shelter in place and lock their doors.

There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston. ALL Auburn and Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock their doors, and report all suspicious individuals and activities to 911. Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing, the city announced.

The city of Lisbon has also issued a shelter-in-place safety message.

What law enforcement said

The Department of Justice is monitoring the situation, sending a statement saying, The Attorney General has been briefed and will continue to closely monitor the situation. Federal law enforcement agencies are assisting our state and local law enforcement partners in Lewiston, Maine.

President Joe Biden has been briefed as well putting out a statement Wednesday night: The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed a shooter walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

Please stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospitals, police said.

On its website, Central Maine Medical Center said staff were reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and were coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients. A woman who answered the phone in the emergency department said no further information could be released and that the hospital itself was on lockdown.

AP News contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
LEWISTON, Maine (NewsNation)  A gunman killed 18 people and injured 13 in two separate shootings Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, police said.

What we know about the suspect

Robert Card, 40, has been identified as a person of interest in the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Just-In-Time Recreation.

A white Subaru Outback, which was the last vehicle Card was seen driving, was discovered near the Lisbon boat dock situated on Frost Hill Avenue, in close proximity to Route 196. Witnesses reported observing police officers going door to door in the vicinity, making inquiries at nearby residences, according to the Sun Journal.

He is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Card is from Bowdoin, Maine, according to Commissioner Mike Sauschuck from the Maine Department of Public Safety.

Shelter-in-place issued across multiple cities

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office issued a shelter-in-place order for the entire county.

Lewiston Public Schools announced school will be canceled Thursday.

At this time, there will be no activity at Lewiston Schools Thursday October 26, 2023. There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety, the district announced on Facebook.

Trauma in Maine shooting will be devastating: Forensic analyst

Officials of the city of Auburn ordered all residents to shelter in place and lock their doors.

There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston. ALL Auburn and Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock their doors, and report all suspicious individuals and activities to 911. Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing, the city announced.

The city of Lisbon has also issued a shelter-in-place safety message.

What law enforcement said

The Department of Justice is monitoring the situation, sending a statement saying, The Attorney General has been briefed and will continue to closely monitor the situation. Federal law enforcement agencies are assisting our state and local law enforcement partners in Lewiston, Maine.

President Joe Biden has been briefed as well putting out a statement Wednesday night: The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed a shooter walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

Please stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospitals, police said.

On its website, Central Maine Medical Center said staff were reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and were coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients. A woman who answered the phone in the emergency department said no further information could be released and that the hospital itself was on lockdown.

AP News contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The suspect in a mass shooting in Maine Wednesday night that killed 18 and injured at least 13 is a sergeant first class in the Army Reserve, according to the service.

A sprawling manhunt was underway Thursday morning for Robert R. Card, 40, who was identified as a "person of interest" after the shooting stretched across several locations -- including a bowling alley and bar -- in Lewiston, Maine. Card, who enlisted in 2002, serves as a petroleum supply specialist and has had no combat deployments, according to the Army.

Col. William Ross, the head of the Maine State Police, said that an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder was issued for Card at a press conference Thursday. Ross said more charges could be added as victims are identified.

Read Next: Marine Kicked Out of Corps and Indicted in Alleged Neo-Nazi Infrastructure Attack Plot Pleads Guilty to Weapons Charge

The attack gripped the small Maine community and triggered a shelter-in-place order Wednesday night as police sped through the streets and law enforcement fanned out on the manhunt.

At a press conference Thursday, Maine officials said authorities were still searching for Card. Maine State Police expanded their shelter in place order on Thursday morning. Lewiston, which is 30 miles north of Portland, is under shelter-in-place orders from police, in addition to the surrounding towns of Lisbon and Bowdoin.

"We are expanding the shelter in place order and school closings to include the town of Bowdoin. Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal, work to locate Robert Card," the state police said in a Facebook post.

Ross told reporters Thursday that the shooting left seven dead at a bowling alley, and eight were killed at a nearby bar and restaurant. Three more victims died in local hospitals, Ross added. Ten of the victims had not yet been identified.

The shootings plunged the area into chaos stretching into the early hours of the morning. Residents were sent shelter-in-place warnings to their phone. Police flooded the streets, scrambling to set up roadblocks and speeding to different locations where the shooter may have fled to.

There have been at least 565 mass shootings in the U.S. so far this year, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive. The nonpartisan group defines a mass shooting as an incident where at least four people were shot or killed, not including the shooter.

Widely published photos released by the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office appeared to show the gunman in a brown, hooded sweatshirt carrying an AR-15-style rifle in a bowling alley.

Card claimed on social media that he most recently served with 3rd Battalion, 304th Regiment, an Army Reserve unit headquartered in Saco, Maine -- just outside where the shootings took place. Its mission is to support training of cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

His awards include an Army achievement medal, according to the service. It's a commonplace accolade that is awarded without much merit.

Card is a trained firearms instructor, according to police, though it was unclear Thursday morning whether that was a civilian position. He was never assigned to West Point as an instructor, according to an Army official familiar with the matter. His unit last supported training cadets in the summer, but Card did not run any instruction.

Card recently reported mental health issues, including threats to "shoot up the National Guard base" in Saco, Maine, police said. He was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks during the summer and was released.

No major National Guard bases are in the area, but there are numerous recruiting stations and armories for the Guard and Reserve.

He was last known to be driving a 2012 white Subaru Outback with a black bumper, according to police, with the Maine license plate 9246PD. Officials said the vehicle was found at a boat landing in Lisbon, Maine. The Lewiston Maine Police department released an image of the car Wednesday evening.

Steve Beynon and Konstantin Toropin reported from Washington, D.C.

Shawn Snow reported from Lewiston, Maine.

-- Steve Beynon can be reached at Steve.Beynon@military.com. Follow him on X @StevenBeynon.

-- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on X @ktoropin.

Related: Ohio Guard Quietly Removed Guardsman Guilty of Making Ghost Guns Last Year
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Authorities say a U.S. Army reservist fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night. A massive search for 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin was underway.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. The database includes every mass killing since 2006 from all weapons in which four or more people, excluding the offender, were killed within a 24-hour time frame.

Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened:

WHO IS THE SUSPECT?

A murder warrant is out for the arrest of 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin, Maine, in the attack in Lewiston that left 18 people dead and 13 people injured.

Maine State Police say Card is wanted on eight counts of murder. Ten victims remain unidentified. As more victims are identified, the counts against Card will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Card, still at large, was considered armed and dangerous, police said. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

A U.S. official told The Associated Press that Card was an Army reservist who had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned about Cards behavior while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

WHERE DID THE SHOOTING TAKE PLACE?

Lewiston Police said the shooting took place on Wednesday evening at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

The bowling alley is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown, and offers traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin, a variant found in New England.

Lewiston is the second-largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

WHAT IS THE AFTERMATH?

Authorities launched a massive search for Card on land and water. The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River but after hours of searching, they found nothing out of the ordinary, according to Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith.

The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for Card.

Maine public safety authorities issued an alert on Thursday afternoon extending a shelter-in- place order for Androscoggin County and Northern Sagadahoc County. Maine Emergency Management Agency called on residents to make sure homes and vehicles were secured.

Maines largest city, Portland, closed its public buildings.

Central Maine Healthcare said Thursday it was closing all physician offices in Lewiston and six surrounding communities for the day. All elective surgery was canceled at Central Maine Medical Center.

President Biden has ordered all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Monday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Authorities say a U.S. Army reservist fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night. A massive search for 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin was underway.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. The database includes every mass killing since 2006 from all weapons in which four or more people, excluding the offender, were killed within a 24-hour time frame.

Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened:

WHO IS THE SUSPECT?

A murder warrant is out for the arrest of 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin, Maine, in the attack in Lewiston that left 18 people dead and 13 people injured.

Maine State Police say Card is wanted on eight counts of murder. Ten victims remain unidentified. As more victims are identified, the counts against Card will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Card, still at large, was considered armed and dangerous, police said. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

A U.S. official told The Associated Press that Card was an Army reservist who had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned about Cards behavior while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

WHERE DID THE SHOOTING TAKE PLACE?

Lewiston Police said the shooting took place on Wednesday evening at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

The bowling alley is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown, and offers traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin, a variant found in New England.

Lewiston is the second-largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

WHAT IS THE AFTERMATH?

Authorities launched a massive search for Card on land and water. The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River but after hours of searching, they found nothing out of the ordinary, according to Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith.

The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for Card.

Maine public safety authorities issued an alert on Thursday afternoon extending a shelter-in- place order for Androscoggin County and Northern Sagadahoc County. Maine Emergency Management Agency called on residents to make sure homes and vehicles were secured.

Maines largest city, Portland, closed its public buildings.

Central Maine Healthcare said Thursday it was closing all physician offices in Lewiston and six surrounding communities for the day. All elective surgery was canceled at Central Maine Medical Center.

President Biden has ordered all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Monday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
America has been rocked by another mass shooting after authorities say a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine killing at least 18 people.

Thirteen people were injured in Wednesday nights shooting. Its the latest massacre in a year filled with mass shootings like it.

At least 18 people have been killed, with the Lewiston shooting expected to be the deadliest shooting to occur this year.

It is the 565th mass shooting to rock the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which classifies a mass shooting as any time four or more people are shot or killed, not including the perpetrator, in the same location at relatively the same time.

Like many years before it, 2023 has been marked by mass shootings in public shopping centres, neighbourhoods, schools, private residences and more.

Here is a list of some of the prominent mass shootings to occur this year.

January 4: Enoch, Utah

At the start of the year, a 42-year-old man shot his five children as well as his mother-in-law and wife in Enoch, Utah after the wife filed for divorce.

January 16: Goshen, California

Six people were killed, including a 10-month-old baby, at a home in Goshen, California.

The shooting was allegedly conducted due to gang rivalry.

January 21: Monterey Park, California

A 72-year-old gunman opened fire at two ballrooms shortly after Lunar New Year Festival celebrations, killing 11 people and injuring nine others.

The gunman later died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Vice President Kamala Harris visits a memorial set up outside Star Dance Studio in Monterey Park, Calif., Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

January 23: Half Moon Bay, California

Seven people were killed in two spree shootings that took place at mushroom farms in Half Moon Bay.

The gunman, a 66-year-old man, opened fire at his place of work, killing four of his co-workers before heading to another farm where he was previously fired from.

February 13: East Lansing, Michigan

On the Michigan State University campus, three students were killed and five other people were injured after a 43-year-old gunman opened fire.

The gunman later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

February 17: Arkabulta, Mississippi

Six people were killed and one person was injured after a 52-year-old man allegedly went on a spree shooting, firing indiscriminately in public and at residences.

March 27: Nashville, Tennessee

At a Christian elementary school in Nashville, three children and three adults were fatally shot by a 28-year-old former student of the school.

The perpetrator was later shot dead by law enforcement.

Girls embrace in front of a makeshift memorial for victims by the Covenant School building at the Covenant Presbyterian Church following a shooting, in Nashville, Tennessee, March 28, 2023 (AFP/Getty)

April 10: Louisville, Kentucky

Five people were killed and eight others were injured at the Old National Bank in Louisville after a 25-year-old former employee opened fire.

The gunman was later fatally shot by police.

April 15: Dadeville, Alabama

At a teenagers birthday party, four were killed and 25 others were injured after several gunmen opened fire.

April 28: Cleveland, Texas

Five people were killed after a 38-year-old man opened fire in a residence shortly after getting into a dispute with neighbours.

May 1: Henryetta, Tennessee

Five children and one adult were fatally shot by a 39-year-old man who was supposed to attend a trial for his alleged sex offences later that same day.

The gunman died by suicide.

May 6: Allen, Texas

Eight people were killed and seven others were injured after a far-right extremist opened fire at the Allen Premium Outlets.

Several of the victims were children, the youngest of whom was only three years old.

The perpetrator was fatally shot by a police officer.

A woman signs a cross as a child looks on at a makeshift memorial by the mall where several people were killed in Saturday's mass shooting, Monday, May 8, 2023, in Allen, Texas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

June 15: Sequatchie, Tennessee

Five people were killed and one person was injured after being shot in a home that was then set ablaze.

The perpetrator, a 48-year-old man, was believed to have carried out the shooting before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

July 2-3: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, a gunman opened fire in the neighbourhood of Kingsessing killing five people and injuring two others.

July 3: Fort Worth, Texas

Three people were killed and four others injured at the annual ComoFest celebration where residents were watching Independence Day fireworks.

July 4: Shreveport, Louisiana

Four people were killed and seven others were injured at an annual Independence Day block party after gunfire was exchanged between multiple men.

July 9: Cleveland, Ohio

Nine people were injured during a shooting after two suspected gunmen opened fire in a busy area of the city while bars and nightclubs were closing down for the night.

July 15: Hampton, Georgia

Four people were killed after a 40-year-old man opened fire in a neighbourhood. After a two-day manhunt, the gunman was fatally shot by police.

August 26: Jacksonville, Florida

A 21-year-old white supremacist killed three people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville in a racially-motivated shooting.

The gunman later died by suicide.

September 17: Romeoville, Illinois

A family of four, including two young children, were found dead from gunshot wounds in their home. Investigators are currently looking for the perpetrator.

October 3: Baltimore, Maryland

At Morgan State University, four people were hospitalised after suffering from gunshot wounds after gunmen opened fire on the college campus.

October 25: Lewiston, Maine

At least 18 people were killed and 13 others injured after a gunman opened fire in a shooting spree that spanned across the town of Lewiston.

Nearly every US state allows gun owners to carry concealed weapons in public in some form. But more than half of US states allow most gun owners to carry a concealed firearm in most public spaces without a permit, background check or safety training, as Republican lawmakers advance a so-called constitutional carry movement through state legislatures.

State officials later moved to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines like the one used in attacks in the last 10 months. But assault weapons like AR-style rifles remain widely available across the country, despite repeated demands from President Joe Biden and widespread support among Democratic members of Congress to reinstate a federal ban.

Since taking office, the president has had more success in enacting new gun safety legislation than any president since Bill Clintons two terms in the 1990s.

But with a Republican-controlled House of Representatives and a de facto 60-vote threshold for any legislative action on any matter in the Democratic-controlled Senate, it is unlikely that Congress will make any progress towards any new laws that would restrict the availability of firearms in the US  even as a majority of Americans believe it should be more difficult to get them.

Alex Woodward contributed to this report
A mass shooter remains at large in Maine, almost 24 hours after he was suspected of killing 18 people in attacks on a restaurant and bowling alley.

State police and the FBI were searching for Robert Card, 40, a military-trained firearms instructor who was admitted to a mental health facility in July.

CCTV images show Mr Card holding an AR15-style semi-automatic rifle at a bowling alley in Lewiston on Wednesday night, where seven people were killed.

A second attack on a restaurant four miles away killed a further eight people. Three more victims died in hospital. Thirteen others were injured, three of whom remain in a critical condition.

Only one of the victims killed during the shooting spree has been publicly named. He was identified as Bob Violette, a 76-year-old retired mechanic.

Seven other victims had already been identified but their names have not been made public.

His daughter-in-law said Mr Violette was a family man and avid bowling fan who wouldnt let you walk out the door without giving him a hug, and a kiss on the cheek.

She told the Portland Press Herald newspaper he had died attempting to protect children in the bowling alley.

Mr Cards car, a Subaru Outback SUV, was found at a boat dock in Lisbon, a town about eight miles away from where the shootings took place.

Mike Sauschuck, Maines public safety commissioner, told reporters that hundreds of police officers were flooding the states streets in search of the gunman.

But he admitted: We dont know his location, and Ill leave it at that.

Late on Thursday night FBI agents surrounded a property in Bowdoin as they carried out search warrants.

12:02 AM BST

We're ending our live coverage

Were ending our live coverage of the Maine manhunt for this evening.

You can follow the latest updates in our app and on our homepage.

11:56 PM BST

More victims identified by their loved ones

Bill and Aaron Young

Bill Young and his 14-year-old son Aaron were shot and killed at the Just In Time Recreation bowling alley, Bills brother Rob Young told Reuters. They were out for an evening with their bowling league. Before learning of their deaths, Rob Young had flown from Baltimore to Lewiston on Thursday to help his sister-in-law in her frantic search for information after the pair had not been heard from since Wednesday when they went bowling.

Tricia Asselin

Tricia Asselin, 53, was trying to call 911 when the gunman shot and killed her at the bowling alley, her brother DJ Johnson told CNN. Ms Asselin, who worked at the bowling alley part-time, was there for a night out with her sister, who survived the massacre, Mr Johnson said. It was just like her to try to help others by calling the emergency service. She wasnt going to run. She was going to try and help. She is survived by an adult son, her brother said.

Joseph Walker

An employee of Schemengees Bar & Grille who lived in nearby Auburn, Maine, Joseph Walker was a beloved husband, father and grandfather who was helping to raise two grandchildren and a stepson, his father, Leroy Walker, said on MSNBC. The elder Walker said his son was close to family, living near two of his brothers. He frequently put on tournaments to raise money for local causes and had been planning a cornhole tournament to help veterans when he was shot and killed on Wednesday.

Bryan MacFarlane

Bryan MacFarlane, 40, was part of a group in the local deaf community participating in a cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar & Grille when he was killed, his sister Keri Brooks told CNN. Mr MacFarlane, an avid motorcyclist who loved his dog, M&M, had recently moved back to Maine, Ms Brooks said.

11:16 PM BST

How did the suspect get a gun?

Maine has gun restriction regulations that are typical of much of the rest of the US and does not have so-called red flag laws to allow potential shooters to be stopped or require permits for concealed weapons.

Questions have already been raised over how Mr Card, a firearms professional with a history of mental health problems, was able to carry a high-powered semi automatic rifle.

Red flag laws allow a judge to temporarily remove a persons gun licence if they are deemed to be a risk to the public in a family or law enforcement report.

09:50 PM BST

Eerie calm descends on Maine towns

This embedded content is not available in your region.

An eerie calm descended on former Maine mill towns as police ordered residents to shelter in place as they scoured the area for suspected gunman, Robert Card.

The streets of Lewiston, Auburn and Lisbon Falls were deserted. Cafes were shut as were businesses as Mainers came to terms with the mass shooting.

Police extended the lockdown to Bowdoin, a college town where Card lived.

The sites of the shootings are sealed off by police with bodies being removed.

Aaron Davies, a pastor went to the family re-union centre in Auburn to offer support.

I found families that were looking for hope, answers and clarity and they found none, he told The Telegraph.

The streets of Lewiston were deserted - GETTY IMAGES

Lewiston residents have been told to stay indoors - GETTY IMAGES

09:33 PM BST

Three friends are dead, one had his knees shot out

Victoria Wysocki-Wilson, a 31-year-old mother of three, said she learned of the shootings from her grandmother.

She had four friends and three of them were shot dead, while a fourth had his knees shot out, she told The Telegraph.

Her stepfathers co-worker was also there and he saw many people shot dead.

One man who was in the bowling alley said he ran up the bowling lane and hid in its machinery when he heard gunshots.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he told the AP news agency.

Lewiston resident Jess Paquette shows her support for her city - AP

09:18 PM BST

New House speaker offers his prayers

Mike Johnson, the new Speaker of the House of Representatives, has told reporters in Washington that he is praying for the victims and families caught up in the Maine shooting.

This is a dark time in America, we have a lot of problems and were really, really hopeful and prayerful, Mr Johnson said.

Prayer is appropriate in a time like this, that the evil can end, and this senseless violence can stop. And thats the statement this morning on behalf of the entire House of Representatives.

Everyone wants this to end.

Mike Johnson speaking to reporters on Thursday - EPA

09:10 PM BST

Terrified residents told to stay put

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Residents of Lewiston, Lisbon and the nearby towns of Sabattus, Auburn and Bowdoin, Mr Cards home town, have been urged to stay at home and lock their doors while the manhunt continues.

A police intelligence report said Mr Card, an armed and dangerous army reservist, was admitted to a mental health facility this summer after reporting that he could hear voices in his head and threatening to attack a National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

Officers have issued a warrant for Mr Cards arrest on eight counts of murder, accounting for the eight victims who have so far been identified.

Tactical units searching for the suspect in Lisbon - EPA

09:05 PM BST

Suspect's family working with police  report

The family of Maine shooting suspect Robert Card are reportedly working with law enforcement and have asked him to surrender, it has been reported.

Ryan Card, the suspects brother, told CNN that his family have helped law enforcement in anyway possible as officers continue a multi-state manhunt.

The police have been given anything that we can offer to facilitate their efforts, Mr Card said.

He added: There are many people hurting out there, please focus on them. This is many peoples worst nightmare.

04:45 PM BST

We're pausing our live coverage

Were pausing our live coverage of the Maine mass shooting. Check back to our homepage for the latest updates.

04:39 PM BST

Three victims in critical condition

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Dr John Alexander, the chief medical officer of Maine Central Health Care, said the first patient arrived at the local trauma centre at 7.24pm on Wednesday night, with a total of 14 patients transported to the unit by ambulances and first responders.

Of the eight patients still in the centre, three are currently in a critical condition and five are stable, he said.

Were not going to comment at this time on the gender or the ages of those patients, nor are we going to comment on the nature of those injuries, he said.

04:30 PM BST

Police do not know location of the suspect

Asked why the alleged gunman had possession of the weapon when he reportedly had mental health issues and had threatened to shoot up the National Guard, Mr Sauschuck said it was something the authorities were looking into.

He said they did not yet have answers considering that this occurred last night and theres still an active search for the suspect in question.

When asked whether the shooter had targeted the venues for a specific reason, Mr Sauschuck also said it was not something he would be prepared to answer today.

Ending the press conference, he added: We dont know his location, and Ill leave it at that.

04:25 PM BST

Joe Biden: 'This shooting reopens deep and painful wounds'

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President Joe Biden called on Republicans to ban assault weapons and high capacity magazines and bring in universal background checks on people purchasing guns.

He also called for lawmakers to bring in legislation requiring the safe storage of guns, and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers.

This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars  physical and mental  of this latest attack, he said.

He also lamented how the mass shooting reopens deep and painful wounds for gun violence survivors.

Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it, he said.

Mr Biden said he and First Lady Jill Biden are praying for the Americans whove lost their lives, for those still in critical care, and for the families, survivors, and community members enduring shock and grief.

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04:12 PM BST

Emotional press conference ends

Officials have concluded their press conference on the latest updates from Maine.

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Janet Millss voice appeared to break as she recounted the cost of this attack on the small community of Lewiston.

The state governor, who is also the former district attorney of Androscoggin County, said she had met her husband in the city and sent her daughters to school there.

On behalf of the 1.3 million people of the whole state of Maine, I hold these families and this city in my heart, she said.

I know that the people of Lewiston are enduring immeasurable pain. I wish I could take that pain off your hearts, off your shoulders.

But I promise you this: we will all help you carry that grief.

04:07 PM BST

Arrest warrant issued for Robert Card

An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder for Robert Card has been issued, police confirmed.

The warrant only currently only relates to eight people as 10 are yet to be identified.

The governor warned that people should not to approach Card under any circumstances.

She asked people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

04:03 PM BST

Timeline of the shooting provided by police

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Colonel William Ross told the press conference a 911 call was received at 6:56pm about an active shooter at Just in Time bowling alley.

At around 7:08pm police received reports of an active shooter at Schemengees Bar and Grille.

Seven people were killed at the bowling alley, one female and six males.

He said eight people were killed at the bar, seven males inside the establishment one male outside of the establishment.

Three people died after they were transferred to the hospital.

04:02 PM BST

Ten victims still need to be identified

Police have said that ten of the 18 victims in the shooting still remain unidentified.

03:56 PM BST

'This city did not deserve this terrible assault'

In a statement Ms Mills continued: This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens on its peace of mind. By a sense of security. No city does. No state. No people.

She said many people are sharing in the sorrow of the families of the victims killed on Wednesday night.

Normal people who were killed or injured while unwinding from a day of work or while spending time with their family and friends, she said.

03:49 PM BST

Governor Janet Mills 'profoundly saddened'

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Maine Governor Janet Mills said she was profoundly saddened to report 18 people lost their lives and 13 people injured in last nights attacks.

She said the full weight of her administration is behind law enforcement efforts to capture the person of interest, Robert Card.

She said they would hold whoevers responsible for this atrocity accountable under the full force of state and federal law and to seek full justice for the victims and their families

She added: We are, we cannot, and we will not rest in this endeavour.

03:46 PM BST

Authorities confirm 18 people killed

Janet Mills, the Governor of Maine, has confirmed that 18 people have been killed and 13 injured during the shooting spree in Maine.

She said that all available state resources had been deployed including mental health professionals.

03:44 PM BST

State officials give press conference

State officials are currently giving a press conference on the latest updates in the investigation.

03:34 PM BST

House speaker Mike Johnson: 'Everyone wants this to end'

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Mike Johnson, who was elected House Speaker on Wednesday, told reporters: This is a dark time in America, we have a lot of problems and were really really hopeful and prayerful.

Prayer is appropriate in a time like this, that the evil can end and this senseless violence can stop.

Mr Johnson said on behalf of the entire House of Representatives that everyone wants this to end.

He added that he was remaining abreast of the latest updates in the investigation.

Mike Johnson gives a brief statement to reporters - Drew Angerer

03:29 PM BST

Residents anxiously wait for news of fatalities

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Tom Dupont was planning on having a drink at Schemengees, the local bar a couple of hundred yards from his home on the outskirts of Lewiston.

We were going to grab a bite somewhere and my fiancees brother sent a the text to say, hey come over and have dinner at my house and we went over there instead.

Otherwise we would have been at the bar, so its very fortunate, Mr Dupont, 57, told the Telegraph. The bar is a community bar with a lot of regulars.

Our phone started blowing up and people were about us because we do go in there sometimes. Like many others Mr Dupont is facing an anxious wait.

We know a lot of people in this area and theres a lot of people we work with, so we are at this point of waiting for names.

Right now we are feeling disbelief that this could happen at a small town like this.

The police sealed off the bar, which is located in a sparsely populated area of the town with a handful of houses.

Otherwise the area, which acts as a depot for mechanical diggers used iin construction, was deserted on Wednesday morning.

03:23 PM BST

Georgia Senator says 'Congress must act'

Raphael Warnock, a Georgia Senator, has called on the US government to act on gun violence, saying his prayers are with victims and their loved ones in Maine:

Im heartbroken to learn of another mass shooting in our country last night, this time in Maine. My prayers are with the victims & their loved ones.



Living with rampant gun violence isnt freedom. Congress must act and stop these tragedies before they begin.  Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@SenatorWarnock) October 26, 2023

03:15 PM BST

Police chief urges residents to report anything suspicious

Ryan McGee, Lisbons Police Chief, has urged residents in the area to reach out to the police if they see anything suspicious.

Please reach out if you see something suspicious, if something isnt right, Chief McGee told reporters on Thursday.

He added: If you look out in your yard, and youre like, that door wasnt open or that trailer wasnt positioned that way  if you see anything suspicious, please call us.

Mr McGee reiterated that Lisbon remains an active scene.

02:59 PM BST

Biden 'praying for injured'

Joe Biden is grieving for those killed in a mass shooting in Maine, a White House spokesman has said.

John Kirby told MSNBC that the US president is praying for the injured.

Mr Biden ordered the flags to be flown at half-staff to honour the victims of the attack.

02:07 PM BST

Supermarket chain in Maine close stores across state until 10am

Hannaford Supermarkets, a Maine-based chain, has said it will close all of its outlets across the state until at least 10am (3pm UK time) today.

It said on Facebook:

We join all Mainers in being deeply saddened and horrified by the tragic events in Lewiston. All Hannaford stores in Maine will be closed until at least 10 a.m. on Thursday, October 26. Our stores are following all shelter in place advisories and guidance from law enforcement. This is an evolving situation and we will provide updates as soon as possible.

Earlier today, police announced a press conference is scheduled to take place at 10:30am local time (3.30pm UK time) at Lewiston City Hall.

02:01 PM BST

'Stay vigilant,' says mayor of neighbouring town

Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque spoke to TODAYs @hodakotb and @savannahguthrie about the latest details in the Lewiston, Maine, shootings, how they are handling the on-going manhunt for the person of interest and how the community is feeling. pic.twitter.com/ZnPznI1fLz  TODAY (@TODAYshow) October 26, 2023

01:49 PM BST

Pictured: Police presence at Schemengees Bar

Police presence at Schemengees Bar - JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP

Police presence at Schemengees Bar - JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP

01:25 PM BST

'The whole thing is a nightmare'

The co-owner of the bar where the shooter continued his rampage said the whole thing is a nightmare, reports Susie Coen, The Telegraphs US Correspondent.

Kathy Lebel, who runs Schemengees Bar & Grille, wasnt there when the mass shooting took place.

She was told a man walked into the bar and started shooting while staff fled in horror, the Lewiston Sun Journal reported.

It was just a fun night playing cornhole  its the last thing youre expecting, right? Ms Lebel said.

I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.

12:40 PM BST

Maine police expanding shelter-in-place advisory

We are expanding the shelter in place advisory and school closings to include the town of Bowdoin. Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings. pic.twitter.com/dqixmXbJAX  Maine State Police (@MEStatePolice) October 26, 2023

12:06 PM BST

'I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started,' says witness

A witness at the bowling alley who identified himself only as Brandon said he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it, he told The Associated Press.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery. He was among a busload of survivors who were driven to a middle school in the neighboring city of Auburn to be reunited with family and friends.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said.

11:52 AM BST

'The worst mass shooting of 2023'

According to the non-profit Gun Violence Archive, the mass shooting in Lewiston was the worst of 2023 to date.

2023 Worst Mass Shooting unfolding tonight in Lewiston Maine... current numbers show 16 killed, 25 or more injured.



This is the 565th Mass Shooting this year, the 31st Mass Murder.



GVA will constantly update information as it is verified. https://t.co/7Z2aC7tZ5p  The Gun Violence Archive (@GunDeaths) October 26, 2023

11:44 AM BST

Where the mass shooting took place

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11:41 AM BST

'This will impact every corner of our community'

Jason Levesque, the mayor of Auburn, a city less than two miles west of Lewiston, said the community was in shock.

He told CNN: Auburn and Lewiston are side by side ... a river separates us.

Combined, our population is around 60,000.

You cannot help but know people who know someone, so this will impact every corner of our community.

10:50 AM BST

Schools shut 50 miles from Lewiston

Schools in areas of Maine that are based 50 miles away from Lewiston, where the deadliest shooting in the states history was carried out on Wednesday night, have now closed because of their apparent connections to Robert Card.

Maine news outlet WMTWTV is reporting schools in Biddeford, Saco and Dayton will remain shut on Thursday. An official is quoted as saying, The shooters apparent connections to the National Guard Armory in Saco leave the community feeling on edge.

According to an intelligence document, Card previously threatened to carry out a shooting at a military base in Saco, which is 50 miles from Lewiston, where he was based as a trained firearms instructor.

The document also said Mr Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

10:28 AM BST

In pictures: Police launch manhunt for shooting suspect

These pictures illustrate the ongoing manhunt in Maine as police search for Robert Card who is wanted as a person of interest following the deadly shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

Police officers stand guard in front of the Central Maine Medical Center

Police close Lincoln Street leading to Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant

Hundreds of officers are searching for Robert Card

10:03 AM BST

Lewiston mayor - City will need 'strength and grit' in coming days

The mayor of Lewiston has said the city will need strength and grit as it comes to terms with the deadliest shooting in Maines history after a gunman opened fire in a restaurant and bowling alley.

In an email sent to the BBC, Carl L Sheline said: We will continue to monitor this situation and state police will provide updates.

I am heartbroken for our city and our people. Lewiston is known for our strength and grit and we will need both in the days to come.

The exact number of fatalities is not known at this stage but officials have claimed at least 22 people have been killed.

09:51 AM BST

Pictured: Manhunt under way for suspect

Police officers don tactical gear in the Lisbon High School gymnasium - CJ GUNTHER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Relatives of victims gather at a reunification centre in Auburn, Maine - Steven Senne/AP

09:34 AM BST

Congressman - 'Like all Mainers, I'm horrified by events in Lewiston - this is my home town'

A Demorcrat Congressman has issued a statement following the shootings in Lewiston.

Jared Golden, a Marine Corps veteran, said he was looking to police to gain control of the situation after a huge manhunt was launched for Robert Card, who is wanted in connection with the deadliest attack in Maines history.

My statement on reports of an active shooter in Lewiston: pic.twitter.com/bigjn9YZsv  Congressman Jared Golden (@RepGolden) October 26, 2023

09:27 AM BST

Mother's anxious wait for news on son in critical condition

Jessica Karchers 23-year-old son Justin is among those left in critical condition after being wounded in the shooting.

She told the Washington Post her son had been shot four times at Schemengees Bar & Grille in Lewiston.

I just called the hospital for an update. And of course, they dont have one, she said.

For the Karcher family, Wednesdays mass shooting was the second time they had suffered tragedy.

In 2019, Justin watched as a man fatally shot his father, Jean Donald Fournier, in a Walmart car park.

His father passed away in front of him, she said.

09:09 AM BST

Restaurant staff - My heart is crushed

Staff at Schemengees Bar and Grill, one of the two locations targeted by a gunman in Lewiston, Maine, posted a message of grief on its Facebook page.

The post read:

My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason. We loss great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.

Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant hosts parties and corporate events with an arcade area that includes dart boards and pool tables, according to its website.

The restaurant is equipped with 10 pool tables, 14 dart boards and dozens of TVs to screen major sporting events.

08:57 AM BST

Massachusetts State Police involved in search for Card

Massachusetts State Police will be stationed along the Maine border in the search for Robert Card, it has been reported.

Card is believed to have previous ties to Massachusetts, although the exact area is not yet known, meaning police have been mobilised in the state.

WBZ I-TEAM REPORT: Mass State Police will be stationed along the Maine border looking for the Lewiston mass shooter.



Robert Card has previous ties to Massachusetts and police are on the lookout in car he heads in that direction. @CherylFiandaca continues to gather more  David Wade (@davidwade) October 26, 2023

08:41 AM BST

Around 20 children in bowling alley at time of attack

Justin Juray, who owns the bowling alley where the shooting took place, told the New York Times that between 100 and 150 people, including 20 children, were in the building at the time.

One woman, Riley Dumont, said her 11-year-old daughter was bowling with other children when she heard several gunshots. The family huddled together in a corner at the bowling alley.

I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me, Ms Dumont told ABC News, adding that she saw three or four victims.

While Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, said her staff immediately locked their doors and moved all 25 customers and employees away from the doors after a customer reported hearing about the shooting at the bowling alley less than a quarter-mile away around 7pm local time.

I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe, Ms Small told The Associated Press.

But at the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.

08:37 AM BST

Lewiston shootings is deadliest US attack in four years

At least 22 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a mass shooting spree in Maine on Wednesday evening, in what is the deadliest attack on US soil in four years.

Multiple reports, citing police sources, said at least 22 people were killed and up to 60 were injured  the worst death toll since the same number were shot in a Walmart store in El Paso in August 2019.

The number of deaths is staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 murders the entire year.

The deadliest US mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.

08:06 AM BST

Maine State Police to hold press conference on Thursday morning

Police in Maine have announced a press conference has been scheduled for 10.30am local time (3.30pm UK time) at Lewiston City Hall.

07:59 AM BST

Suspect may have registered jetski

Robert Card, the person of interest wanted in connection with the mass shooting in Maine, may be using a jetski amid a huge manhunt in the state, it has been suggested.

Card, who police identified following shootings in a restaurant and bowling alley in Lewiston, is believed to have abandoned a white SUV at a boat launch at the Androscoggin River.

Local media have now reported Card appeared to have registered a jetski in June. Police are reportedly focusing search efforts on an area near the river in Lisbon Falls with a helicopter hovering near a secondary school.

Steve Robinson, editor-in-chief of The Maine Wire, tweeted: Robert Card, the person of interest in the Lewiston shooting, appears to have registered a jetski in June.

Relevant since police/media report his car was found abandoned at a boat launch on the Androscoggin River.

07:41 AM BST

Armed and dangerous: What we know about Robert Card

Robert Card is at the centre of a huge manhunt in the US state of Maine

Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve

Lewiston police have identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest following one of the deadliest mass shootings on US soil.

Police are urging the public to contact law enforcement if they have information about Cards whereabouts.

Law enforcement officials in Maine told CNN that Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve.

Police found a white SUV they believe Card drove to the town of Lisbon, about 7 miles (11 km) to the southeast, and Sauschuck said people were asked to remain indoors in both Lewiston and Lisbon.

Maine public safety official Mike Sauschuck told reporters: Card is considered armed and dangerous.

He is a person of interest, however, and thats what well label them at moving forward until that changes. If people see him, they should not approach Card or make contact with him in any way.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case, to locate Mr Card, who, again, is a person of interest, and a person of interest only.

07:35 AM BST

Search for gunman near secondary school

Police officers in tactical gear get ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium

Police searching for a suspect following a mass shooting in Maine are searching near a secondary school in Lisbon Falls, according to local media.

WMTWTV, a Maine-based outlet, is reporting that officers are focusing efforts on a school near the Androscoggin River with a helicopter also involved in the search.

It tweeted: LEWISTON SHOOTING UPDATE: Police have shifted their search efforts to Lisbon Falls and the helicopter has been focused on an area behind the high school near the Androscoggin River.

Police in Maine have identified Robert Card as someone they want to speak to following shootings at a restaurant and bowling alley in Lewiston.

Journalist Sam Rogers reported two Portland Police Department tactical trucks have arrived at Lisbon High School with officers in full gear.

3am now  Two Portland PD tactical trucks, with officers in full gear, arrived at Lisbon High School 20ish minutes ago. An ambulance was with them. Weve noticed a decrease in cruisers driving on Lisbon St. & heard less of the helicopter recently. https://t.co/7qNkKmBGXQ  Sam Rogers (@slaminsamNCM) October 26, 2023

07:20 AM BST

Witness - 'I was laying on top of daughter - my mother was laying on me'

Stunned witnesses have told how they lay on top of their relatives to protect them after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley in front of children.

Riley Dumont said her 11-year-old daughter was bowling with other children when she heard several gunshots.

The family huddled together in a corner at the bowling alley.

I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me, Ms Dumont told ABC News, adding that she saw three or four victims.

Billie Jayne Cooke told the BBC how she heard one siren after another as she first heard of the attack when leaving a public event on Wednesday evening.

Ive never heard so much activity in my life in this city. We have police from all over the state, from out of the state, coming up.

Its horrible. You just dont think thats ever going to happen - and it did.

07:12 AM BST

Lewiston mass shooting: What we know so far

Police respond to a shooting in Lewiston, Maine

Mass shooting in bowling alley and restaurant

Police in Maine have responded to two shooting incidents in the city of Lewiston at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street.

State officials say the shootings started just before 7pm.

Lewiston city councillor Robert McCarthy told CNN that law enforcement had confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured.

Suspect identified

Lewiston police have identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest, saying he should be considered armed and dangerous.

Police are urging the public to contact law enforcement if they have information about Cards whereabouts. Law enforcement officials in Maine tell CNN that Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve.

Authorities have released images of the suspect in brown clothing entering the bowling alley with a high-powered assault rifle

Manhunt under way

Hundreds of police have fanned out across the state of Maine hunting for Card

Police found a white SUV they believe Card drove to the town of Lisbon, about 7 miles (11 km) to the southeast, and Sauschuck said people were asked to remain indoors in both Lewiston and Lisbon.

US President Joe Biden has been briefed on the shooting by Maine Governor Janet Mills and the White House has offered full federal support to state officials.

06:59 AM BST

Schools to remain closed on Thursday

Lewiston residents have been ordered to shelter at home

Schools in Lewiston will remain closed on Thursday following the mass shooting in the city which has left at least 22 people dead and dozens more injured.

In a statement, Lewiston Public Schools said there remained a lot of unknown information at this time as it urged people to stay close to your loved ones.

The statement in full:

Hello, There will not be school tomorrow. At this time, there will be no activity at Lewiston Schools Thursday October 26, 2023. There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate. Stay close to your loved ones. Embrace them. Our prayers go out to those who lost someone tonight. Our prayers go out to all those working to stop further loss of life. We will provide updates.

06:53 AM BST

In pictures: Gunman storms bowling alley

These images show the moment the gunman entered a bowling alley in Lewiston .

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released photographs of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed a man walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

Authorities said the shooting started just before 7pm local time.

The gunman is seen pointing his weapon in Sparetime Recreation

Authorities say the shooting started at around 7pm

The gunman appears to be carrying a semi-automatic rifle

06:42 AM BST

President Biden briefed on shootings

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the mass shooting following a conversation with Maine Governor Janet Mills.

A White House statement read: The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack.

Wednesdays death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

06:39 AM BST

Army firearms instructor named as person of interest

State and local police named Robert R. Card, 40, as a person of interest in the case after previously sharing photos of a man wielding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle.

According to a police intelligence bulletin, seen by the Associated Press news agency, Mr Card is a trained firearms instructor at a US Army Reserve facility in Maine who was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks earlier this year.

The document also said Mr Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

06:38 AM BST

Police search for gunman

Hundreds of police are searching the city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine for a suspect wanted in connection with mass shootings that killed at least 22 people and left dozens injured.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.

A spokesperson for Maine Department of Public Safety urged residents to stay in their homes with their doors locked.

Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now, Shannon Moss said. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

Gov. Janet Mills released a statement echoing those instructions. She said she had been briefed on the situation and will remain in close contact with public safety officials.

06:37 AM BST

Good morning

The Telegraph will be providing live updates on the mass shooting spree in Maine which has resulted in the deaths of at least 22 people while dozens more have been injured.

State police in Lewiston, the states second-largest city, confirmed an active shooter had attacked a restaurant and bowling alley in what is the deadliest attack on US soil in four years.

A manhunt involving hundreds of police is currently under way to find the shooter who remains at large.

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 investigation into a mass shooting that left at least 18 people dead at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday evening continues to unfold, but advocates and experts say the attack has already highlighted Maines legal laxity on gun safety.

Specifically, Maine doesnt have some measures that have been shown to reduce gun deaths among adults, such background checks for handgun sales or laws that require gun permits which in his own research found was associated with a 60% reduced risk of mass shootings.

Michael Rocque, a professor who has studied gun laws at Bates University in Lewiston, Mainewhich was on lockdown at the time of Rocques interview with TIME said that he is already worried the shooting could quickly be forgotten without taking measures to prevent more gun deaths. We have tools at our disposal that maybe wont stop all crime from happening, but potentially could prevent one tragedy. Isnt that worth it, if we can do it without infringing on peoples rights? said Rocque.

In recent years, efforts to enact gun safety measures have floundered in the state. In June, the state Senate rejected a bill that would have required background checks for private gun sales, including at gun shows, and instead passed a law prohibiting people from buying guns for someone banned from owning them. And while other states have embraced red flag laws, Maine currently only has what has been called a yellow flag law, which requires getting a medical professionals opinion, in addition to a court order, to confiscate someone's firearm temporarily; and up until recently, the law wasnt being strongly enforced, the Portland Press Herald reported,

As Monisha Henley, senior vice president of government affairs at gun safety activist group Everytown, put it, Gun laws really do save lives, and Maine doesnt have that many.

In Rocques view, Maine has been slow to enact gun control, in part, because residents tend to see the state as safe. In 2021, Maine had a gun death rate of 12.6 per 100,000, below the national average, according to data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Many people in MaineRocque includedare also hunters, and Mainers often see themselves as blue collar people who handle their own business, he says. Many residents are also gun owners: from 2007 to 2016, about 45% of adults in the state were gun owners, compared to a national average of 32% in 2016, according to research from the RAND Corporation.

However, Rocque argues that hes optimistic that Maine residents will find common ground after the shooting, and people can work to prevent violence before it happens. In particular, he says, Maines yellow flag law has received bipartisan support, and could be an important tool going forward to prevent future tragedies if law enforcement continues to be willing to enforce them. Mass shootings rarely happen out of the blue, he says, noting that shooters often make threats or share their plans with others.

Rosanna Smart, co-director of RANDs Gun Policy in America initiativewhich analyzes the effectiveness of gun safety measures says that while theres limited evidence showing which laws prevent mass shootings specifically, given that theyre relatively rarebans on high-capacity magazines appear to reduce the number of deaths in mass shootings. Beyond mass shootings, theres also evidence that some policies are associated with a lower rate of gun homicides overall, says Smart, including background checks and permits for buying guns.

Maine could also consider enacting laws that could not only prevent homicides, but prevent gun deaths by suicide, says Smart. Despite the relatively low rate of violent crime in the state, the state has a high rate of suicide gun deaths, at a rate of 9.2 deaths per 100,000 people compared to 6.9 per 100,000 nationwide. In particular, she says, requiring a waiting period before buying guns seem to reduce suicide deaths. If the goal is to reduce firearm deaths, a focus on firearm suicides is certainly needed alongside any focus on interpersonal forms of firearm violence, she says.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
A manhunt for a gunman is underway after at least 16 people were killed and dozens more were injured in two mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine.

Lewiston Police responded to an active-shooter situation at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles away.

Police released a photo of a person of interest, identified as 40-year-old Robert Card  a firearms instructor in the Army Reserve assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine. Police warned residents that Card is considered armed and dangerous.

Maine State Police expanded the shelter in place advisory to include residents of Lisbon, after they found a vehicle of interest there. By Thursday morning, the order was issued for residents of Bowdoin as well.

More than 100 federal and local investigators are working to track down Card.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills (D) and other state and local officials are holding a press briefing Thursday morning.

Watch the video above.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Police officers speak with a motorist at a roadblock, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Lisbon, Maine, during a manhunt for the suspect of Wednesday's mass shootings. The shootings took place at a restaurant and bowling alley in nearby Lewiston, Maine. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  Barely four years before a gunman's deadly rampage in Maine, a state that is staunchly protective of gun rights, the governor signed a law aimed at preventing a mass shooting like the one Wednesday night that claimed at least 18 lives.

It was called a yellow flag law, different from the red flag laws cropping up in other states to seize weapons from gun owners viewed as a threat. In a sign of the pro-Second Amendment mindset in Maine, a gun-rights group helped write the law, and critics said that, while it was a first step toward stronger gun safety measures, the state could save more lives by doing more  like passing a red flag law.

The yellow flag law and permissive gun measures in Maine are coming under greater scrutiny in the aftermath of a massacre that authorities say was carried out by a man who was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this past summer and had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up a military base.

It was not clear whether anyone had used the yellow flag law in the suspects case, but gun-control advocates on Thursday blamed the killings on what one called Maine's weak gun laws.

Vice President Kamala Harris said gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in the U.S. and called on Congress to pass stronger laws, including making background checks universal, passing a red flag law and banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

"It is a false choice to suggest we must choose between either upholding the Second Amendment or passing reasonable gun safety laws to save lives, Harris said in a statement.

In recent years, anti-gun violence groups in Maine have repeatedly failed in pushing for stronger laws, even with Democratic control of the Legislature and governor's office.

On Thursday, they vowed to try again.

At a minimum, the Maine Gun Safety Coalition wants the state to ban assault weapons to prevent more mass shootings, said Cam Shannon, the group's chair.

Elected officials must "stop bowing to the gun lobby and look squarely at the face of what has happened in Maines second largest city, Shannon said.

Maine is one of about 20 states that allow permitless carry  having a concealed weapon in public without a permit  and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

Gun rights advocates have for years held up Maine as an example of a place with unrestrictive gun laws and little violent crime.

Wednesday night's mass shooting is especially difficult to stomach considering the recent failures to strengthen Maines gun laws, said Lynn Ellis of the Maine Gun Safety Coalition.

Its infuriating, Ellis said.

Those failures include a statewide referendum in 2016 in which voters defeated a proposal to expand background checks on gun purchases. Earlier this year, lawmakers rejected proposals to require background checks for private gun sales and create a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases.

Democratic Gov. Janet Mills has also voiced skepticism of some gun control proposals in recent years.

A proposal for a red flag law that more than 20 states have adopted failed in 2019 in favor of the yellow flag law that backers said would stop suicides and protect both the public and the constitutional rights of gun owners.

The yellow flag law had the support of the Sportsmans Alliance of Maine, which was instrumental in writing it and viewed other states' red flag laws as unconstitutional. Some also saw the suicide rate as a far bigger concern in Maine than mass shootings.

Under it, law enforcement can detain someone they suspect is mentally ill and poses a threat to themselves or others.

The law differs from red flag laws in that it requires police first to get a medical practitioner to evaluate the person and find them to be a threat before police can petition a judge to order the person's firearms to be seized.

Gun-control advocates had criticized the law as ham-handed and unlikely to be used by families who don't want to traumatize a loved one by having them taken into custody.

Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins said she thinks a ban on high-capacity magazines is the best approach to stop this kind of gun violence. She also said at a news conference that from what she has heard, the yellow flag law should have been enforced.

The fact, the suspect was hospitalized for two weeks for mental illness should have triggered the yellow flag law. He should have been separated from his weapons," Collins said at a news conference Thursday in Lewiston. "Im sure that after the fact, that its going to be looked at very closely."

But the limited details released by police don't make it clear whether the yellow flag law should have stopped the suspect in the Lewiston shootings or where he got any guns he used.

It's also not clear whether the suspect's commitment to a mental health facility triggered a federal restriction against possessing guns.

Since the 1960s, federal law and most states have prohibited people from possessing guns if they have been formally committed to a mental health facility, said Lindsay Nichols, policy director at the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence.

Not everyone who stays at a facility is considered formally committed, though. Formal commitment is a court process thats usually required to keep someone at a facility longer than about 14 days, she said.

A judge typically must approve a formal commitment, which is then sent to the background-check system required for gun purchases at licensed firearm dealers. If someone tries to buy a gun after being committed to a facility, it appears on a background check and the gun store wont sell the weapon.

But there have been errors in that system. For instance, authorities dont always submit the correct information about a commitment quickly enough to the national background check system.

And even if a hold is in the system, background checks arent required at unlicensed or private sellers in many states.

It is far too easy for people with dangerous histories to get guns, Nichols said. Policymakers need tighter restrictions so guns can be kept away from people who are dangerous.

Overall, however, people with mental illnesses are not at a significantly higher risk of being violent towards others than those without a diagnosis, she said.

In fact, people with mental illnesses are far more likely to be victims of violent crime than perpetrators, and access to firearms is a big part of the problem, mental health experts say.

On Thursday morning, gun control advocates in the state began organizing and the Maine Legislatures gun safety caucus met. Democratic state Rep. Kristen Cloutier, a former Lewiston mayor, called the shootings surreal and heartbreaking" and called for stronger measures to prevent gun violence.

This has only strengthened my own resolve to do whatever I can to help prevent similar tragedies like this from happening again in other communities, Cloutier said.

___

Whitehurst reported from Washington, D.C., and Levy reported from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
MSNBC

The state lawmaker whose hometown in Maine was torn apart by a gunman wielding a sniper rifle on Wednesday issued a stunning mea culpa on Thursday, apologizing for previously voting against an assault rifle ban and vowing to do everything possible to outlaw weapons of war.

The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing, said State Rep. Jared Golden, whose district includes Lewiston, where Army marksman Robert Card allegedly killed 18 people in a bowling alley and a nearby bar.

Golden conceded his prior opposition to gun control measures was based on several misjudgments, among them, his fear of this dangerous world, his determination to protect his wife and daughter in their home, and his false confidence that our community was above this and that we could be in full control.

He asked his constituents and the victims of Wednesdays dual massacres for forgiveness. At a time like this a leader is forced to grapple with things that are far greater than his or herself, he said. Humility is called for as accountability is sought.

Maine Shooting: Dad Says He Left Bar Minutes Before Son Was Killed

Card, a U.S. Army reservist, used a sniper rifle with .308 caliber bullets to unleash the carnage on Wednesday, officials told NBC News. Grainy photos released by cops, who were still hunting for Card on Thursday night, appeared to show a second magazine attached to his high-powered weapon.

He appears to have legally purchased the gun before he underwent two weeks of in-patient psychiatric treatment this summer, the officials told NBC. Cards military commanders sent him to receive inpatient treatment on July 16 after he began behaving erratically while in training at the United States Military Academy, a spokesperson for the New York State Division of Military and Naval Affairs told The Daily Beast.

Around the same time, Card had an acute episode of mental health, his sister-in-law told The Daily Beast.

He had started insisting to family members that he could hear people attacking himincluding at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar and Grill, the sites of Wednesdays twin shootingsthrough powerful hearing aids that he had recently started wearing to combat hearing loss.

Maines gun laws would not necessarily require Cards firearms to be seized after his treatment.

Unlike some states so-called red flag laws, which prohibits people from owning guns if they are shown to pose a threat to themselves or others, Maine has a yellow flag gun law, which requires a medical professional to evaluate a persons potential risk before police can ask a judge to remove the persons firearms.

Gun safety advocates have warned that the Maine law, which was drafted with input from gun rights groups, is less effective than a red flag law.

A permit is not required to carry guns in public in Maine, a state that has a long history of firearm ownership and traditions of sport shooting and hunting.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Update: Suspect Robert Card was found dead Friday night, officials said. Read the latest here. Our earlier coverage is below.

A manhunt continued Thursday for the suspect in the mass shooting that killed 18 people and injured 13 in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday.

Authorities are attempting to locate 40-year-old Robert Card, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told reporters during a news conference Thursday. Police said he should be considered armed and dangerous.

Hundreds of police and about 80 FBI agents, as well as federal marshals and other agencies, are involved in the search.

Residents of local communities remained under shelter-in-place warnings, and heavily armed law enforcement officers were seen surrounding a house in the nearby town of Bowdoin, where Card is from, Thursday night.

"Law enforcement is at a home in Bowdoin as part of the investigation into the Lewiston shootings and the search for Robert Card," the Maine Department of Public Safety confirmed. But officers completed their search and cleared the scene without finding the suspect.

Law enforcement officials gather in the road in Bowdoin, Maine, leading to the home of a suspect being sought in connection with two mass shootings in nearby Lewiston, Oct. 26, 2023. / Credit: Getty Images

The deadly rampage began a little before 7 p.m. Wednesday evening at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley in Lewiston, where seven people were killed; six males and one female died of apparent gunshot wounds, state police Col. William Ross said during the news conference.

At the second shooting scene, Schemengees Bar and Grille, about 4 miles away, seven males inside the establishment and one outside were killed, Ross said. Three other people died at an area hospital.

"For me it was incomprehensible that this can happen in Lewiston, Maine," Mayor Carl Sheline told CBS News Boston.

"Our city is facing this incredible loss and I am completely broken for our city, and my heart really goes out to the victims and their families right now," Sheline said.

The names of some of the victims have been confirmed by CBS News. They include Arthur Strout, Joseph Walker, Bryan MacFarlane and Peyton Brewer-Ross. Officials haven't released many details about the victims.

Investigators are looking into whether the suspect was targeting a specific individual, who is believed to be a current or former girlfriend, two U.S. officials and a former high-ranking official told CBS News. It wasn't clear if the individual was at either of the two locations that were attacked.

Police received a 911 call about the bowling alley shooting at about 6:56 p.m. EDT, Ross said. Just over 10 minutes later, at about 7:08 p.m., police received multiple calls about the second shooting. Police from Lewiston and the surrounding area responded to the shootings.

"As you can imagine, this was a very fast-paced, fast-moving, very fluid scene, very dangerous scene that these guys and girls were going into," Ross said.

The weapon used in the shootings was a semi-automatic rifle with an extended magazine and scope, CBS News senior investigative producer Pat Milton reported.

Suspect's military and mental health history

The suspect, a sergeant first class in the U.S. Army Reserve, is a petroleum supply specialist, according to the Army. He enlisted in the Reserve in 2002 and doesn't have any combat deployments. He is assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment in Saco, Maine, U.S. Army spokesperson Bryce Dubee told CBS News.

A Maine law enforcement bulletin seen by CBS News had said the suspect was a trained firearms instructor, but an updated bulletin said there's no indication that he was an instructor.

He recently reported mental health issues, including hearing voices, according to the bulletin. He had also threatened to shoot up the National Guard base in Saco, the bulletin said, and he was reported to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this summer.

In July, while training at the U.S. Military Academy in New York, leaders of the suspect's unit told garrison staff that he was "behaving erratically," a New York Army National Guard spokesperson told CBS News.

The New York State Police was contacted and took the suspect to an Army hospital at West Point to be evaluated, the spokesperson told CBS News. When asked about the incident, the state police told CBS News it was an active investigation and declined to comment.

Dubee, the Army spokesperson, told CBS News there aren't any records to indicate the suspect participated in the West Point training. A U.S. official said this is because almost within the first day, he started acting erratically.

Authorities shared images of the suspect and asked people to contact them "if you recognize this individual."

Law enforcement officials released a photo of a man with a semiautomatic rifle they were calling a suspect in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, on Oct. 25, 2023. / Credit: Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office via REUTERS

On Thursday morning, amid a massive search for the suspect, the police chief for Lisbon, Maine, some 7 miles southeast of Lewiston, urged people to contact authorities if they see anything suspicious.

"If something isn't right, if you look out in your yard and you're like, that door wasn't open or, you know, that trailer wasn't positioned that way, if you see anything suspicious, please call us because that's how we're going to be able to work together and be able to get to the bottom of this," Chief Ryan McGee told reporters.

The suspect has connections to Massachusetts, according to CBS News Boston sources, and Massachusetts State Police and federal agents are staged at the Maine border. Canada's Border Services Agency issued an "armed and dangerous" alert to its officers along the U.S.-Canada border, according to the Canadian Press.

According to the Maine law enforcement bulletin, a white Subaru Outback registered to the suspect was found. Maine State Police said earlier the "vehicle of interest" was recovered by police in Lisbon.

The vehicle was found near a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which flows into the Kennebec River, CBS News' Milton reported.

The U.S. Coast Guard is searching waterways for the suspect's boat with a response vessel from Boothbay Harbor, Maine, and a fixed-wing aircraft from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Milton and CBS News' Robert Legare reported.

Two other vehicles were registered to the suspect in Maine: a 2022 Yamaha motorcycle and a 2019 Sea-Doo green boat, according to the bulletin.

Police in Lewiston, Maine, have released a photo of this car wanted in connection with an active shooting situation on Oct. 25, 2023. / Credit: Lewiston Police Department

State police urged residents of Lewiston and Lisbon to shelter in place. "Please stay inside your home with the doors locked," they wrote on social media.

Authorities later expanded the shelter-in-place advisory to Bowdoin. "Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card," they said.

The city of Auburn, Maine, which borders Lewiston to the west, also advised residents to shelter in place. Lewiston is about 45 minutes north of Portland.

Numerous schools in the region closed Thursday due to the manhunt, CBS Portland affiliate WGME-TV reported. Portland is among the places where schools were shut.

Heavily armed police stand at the ambulance entrance to the Central Maine Medical Center on Oct. 26, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine, where many of the shooting victims were brought. / Credit: John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

"My heart is crushed"

An owner of Schemengees said in a Facebook post: "My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason. We loss great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone."

One man at the bowling alley said he heard about 10 shots and thought the first was a balloon popping. "I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it," he told The Associated Press, adding that he then hurried down the length of the alley and hid in the machinery behind the pins.

At Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, three patients from the shooting died, according to Dr. John Alexander, chief medical officer of Central Maine Healthcare. Three other patients were in critical condition, while five more were in stable condition and two additional patients were transferred to other hospitals.

Maine has had between 16 to 29 homicides each year since 2012, according to the Reuters news service, citing state police.

President Biden was initially briefed on the shooting during Wednesday night's state dinner honoring Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Thursday afternoon. Mr. Biden also spoke with Maine Governor Janet Mills; the state's senators, Susan Collins and Angus King; and one of its members of Congress, Jared Golden.

"He pledged full federal support in the wake of this horrific tragedy," Jean-Pierre said, adding that the president received another briefing Thursday morning.

Mr. Biden called the shooting a tragedy and urged Republicans in Congress to work with his administration to pass gun control measures including an assault weapons ban and a ban on high capacity magazines.

"For countless Americans who have survived gun violence and been traumatized by it, a shooting such as this reopens deep and painful wounds," the president said in a statement. "Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it."

The FBI is also responding to the shooting, an agency official told CBS News.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has also been briefed.

"The entire Department of Homeland Security grieves with the loved ones of those killed and injured, and stands with the brave law enforcement officers and first responders who are currently working to secure and safeguard the people of Lewiston," Mayorkas said in a statement.

Mills released a statement saying she was briefed on the situation. "I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement," Mills said. "I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials."

King's office said in a statement that he was "deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors."

Collins noted on social media that she had also spoken with Mr. Biden. "As our state mourns this horrific mass shooting, we appreciate the support we've received from across the country, including the call I received from President Biden offering assistance," she wrote.

In a major reversal, Golden, a Democrat, called on Congress to ban assault weapons in the wake of the shootings.

"I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war, like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime," Golden said at a news conference. "The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure, which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing in my hometown of Lewiston, Maine."

-Evan Coan and Eleanor Watson contributed reporting. The Associated Press contributed reporting.

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

The JAY-Z interview: Part 2

WATCH: Maine officials give update on manhunt for suspect in mass shootings
A massive manhunt continued Friday for a man suspected of killing 18 people and injuring 13 others at a bowling alley and a restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night.

Police identified the suspect as Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist who had recently been committed to a mental health facility.

A shelter-in-place order that had previously been in effect since Wednesday in the immediate search area was lifted Friday as police continued to focus in the Androscoggin River near a boat launch where a vehicle belonging to Card was found.

Our live coverage has ended for the day.

Cover image: (Steven Senne/AP)
Brandon was unlacing his rented khaki bowling shoes when he heard a loud pop. With Halloween just days away, he initially brushed off the bang as a burst balloon and continued to get ready for a solo practice session.

However, when he turned to see a bearded man 15-feet away clutching an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle, he knew he had seconds to reach safety.

I just booked it down the lane and I slid basically in where the pins are and climbed on the machine, he said.

In stocking feet, Brandon hid on top of the machine which pumps the pins around the Just in Time bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, until the police arrived. Just metres away, seven people were shot dead as the gunman unleashed one part of his bloody rampage. He would go on to kill 18 and injure 13 more in Americas worst mass shooting of 2023, so far.

The horror is far from over for the 38,000 residents of Lewiston and the neighbouring towns, as helicopters and hundreds of police were still scrambling on Thursday to hunt down murder suspect Robert Card.

The 40-year-old army reservist, who had this summer been committed to a mental health facility, is still at large. Police have issued an arrest warrant on suspicion of eight counts of murder. The number of charges is likely to increase as more victims are identified.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Mr Card, a trained firearms instructor, is understood to be a sergeant and a petroleum supply specialist in the US army reserve.

On Thursday, his neighbours said he had begged for help to have his guns removed from the house. This is not the Rob Card we knew, one neighbour told The Telegraph. He wouldnt hurt a flea. He grew up around here. He was a good kid. Were devastated.

He added: I do know he begged for help. They were supposed to come and remove his guns from the house, but they never did. All these lives are lost.

Richard Goddard, another neighbour, said Mr Cards home is in rolling farmland where neighbours live some distance apart. Mr Goddard said the Cards were a hard working, quiet farm family, adding: This has been a huge shock. Its unbelievable.

Resident, John Collins, 61, said someone at Mr Cards home would practise shooting all the time... for 20 to 30 minutes straight.

I was telling my friend he must have a lot of money because ammunition is so expensive, he told The Telegraph. This didnt seem to bother him, he added. He was shooting round after round.

Wednesday nights massacre began unfolding at just before 7pm at the family friendly bowling alley. A gunman in a brown hooded jumper pushed through its glass double doors, which had been adorned with fake spider webs for Halloween.

Residents in Maine are in shock after the shooting in Lewiston - AP Photo/Steven Senne

Among those who noticed him was Meghan Hutchinson, whose daughter, Zoe Levesque, 10, had been with a group of children practising in a youth league. As they sprinted for cover, Zoes leg was grazed by a bullet.

My pants had a bullet thing in it and then I looked and it wasnt that deep, she told ABC News. I was scared but it didnt hurt, and I didnt know what happened until I started bleeding.

As they hid in the back room, another child came in who had been hit in the arm and was bleeding profusely.

Back in the bowling alley, three generations of women from one family piled on top of each other to try to protect one another from the bullets.

Riley Dumont jumped on top of her 11-year-old daughter, while Ms Dumonts mother, in turn, laid on top of her.

Bob Violette, a 76-year-old retired mechanic and avid bowler, also tried to protect the children he was looking after, but was killed. The grandfather-of-six bowled most weekday mornings and ran a youth league.

He had saved up to buy new iPads and iPhones to video the children to help them improve. His wife, Lucy, was injured.

Her condition is unknown.

Just 12 minutes after the police had taken the first 911 from the bowling alley, they received a flurry of calls about another shooting at Schemengees Bar and Grille, some four miles away.

Wednesday is industry night at the bar, with 25 per cent discounts offered to customers who work in the bar or the restaurant business.

Here, eight men were shot dead, seven inside the bar and one outside.

Victoria Wysocki-Wilson, 31, was preparing supper for her three children when her grandmother, who had friends at the bar, told her about the shooting.

She had four friends and three of them were shot dead, while a fourth had his knees shot out, she told The Telegraph. In a split second your world gets turn[ed] upside down for no good reason, the business posted on social media, saying great people in this community had been killed.

Maine state police told residents about reports of an active gunman at around 8pm, advising locals to stay put and not to approach the armed and dangerous suspect, Mr Card.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

At around 11pm, officers found Mr Cards Subaru Outback SUV, in the town of Lisbon, about eight miles to the south east of Lewiston. There was no sign of Mr Card.

On Thursday, an eerie calm descended, with the police order urging residents to stay inside still in place. The streets of Lewiston, Auburn and Lisbon Falls were deserted, with schools, cafes and local businesses shut.

The sites of the shootings were sealed off by police with bodies being removed.

Police also told residents to stay home in the town of Bowdoin, about 12 miles east of Lewiston, where Mr Card is believed to live.

Police are still searching for main suspect Robert Card following the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine - CJ GUNTHER/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Known as the pine tree state due to almost 90 per cent of the land being covered by forest, Maine was, until this week, seen as one of the safest states in the country with 103 incidences of violent crime per 100,000 in 2022, far below the national average rate of 381.

Aaron Davies, a pastor, went to the family reunion centre in Auburn to offer support. He told The Telegraph he had spoken to little girls who saw horrible things last night.

By mid-morning the reunion centre was deserted but anxious residents still turned up hoping to find news of their loved ones without success.

An unnamed mother had earlier asked for prayers for her 22-year-old son, who was shot four times and was on a ventilator in hospital.

She told WMTV about 20 other people were waiting for updates on their loved ones at the hospital.

Tom Dupont, who had been planning on having a drink at the Schemengees bar on Wednesday evening but decided to go to his brother-in-laws house instead, said the community is waiting for names of those killed.

Right now we are feeling disbelief that this could happen in a small town like this, he said.

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MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A Tennessee State Representative who attended college just outside of Lewiston, Maine, says the overnight mass shooting in the small town is yet another reminder regarding the impact of gun violence within our communities and across the country.

Those living in Lewiston, Maine were told to shelter in place after the gunman in a mass shooting went on the run Wednesday night.

Memphis to Maine is separated by nearly 1,500 miles. But its a place that will forever be near and dear to Tennessee State Representative Justin J. Pearson.

Pearson is familiar with the small Northern city as it is located not far from where he attended college a few years back.

Maine mass shooting: What we know so far

It really is heart-wrenching and devastating that this is happening, especially for this to be in a place where I went to school. I went to college in Maine, said Pearson.

He spent his college years in Brunswick, Maine, less than 20 miles outside Lewiston, a small community of less than 40,000 people, according to the latest census. A community which is now at the center of the nations latest mass shooting.

This is not okay. Its not normal, and its not the way things have to be, especially knowing those shot by the lone gunman were taking part in something so normal, enjoying Wednesday night at a restaurant and bowling alley when chaos suddenly erupted, said Pearson.

Pearson says that it is the responsibility of people in government to do something to prevent tragedies such as Wednesday nights shooting from happening in the first place.

Maine law tried to prevent mass shootings. Some say more is needed after Lewiston killings

We should be safe going bowling, or to the movie theatre, or church, or to school, or a bank, said Pearson.

The representative points to the Tennessee Special Session held in August, just 5 months after the deadly Covenant School Shooting outside Nashville that claimed the lives of six people, three children, and three adults.

This has been an extremely violent year. Locally, the Memphis Police Department recently reported a 25 percent increase in murders.

We experience gun violence nearly everyday in this city, said Pearson.

Nationally, the latest round of violence that claimed the lives of more than a dozen people, with many more injured, marks the 565th mass shooting for the year across the nation, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

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18 funerals, at least, are about to happen in Maine, said Pearson.

Representative Pearson says that the angst and anxiety those in Maine are experiencing is felt often on the streets of Memphis.

I encourage everybody to pray, but also to do the justice of helping to end this gun violence epidemic, said Pearson.

WREG reached out to the Shelby County Republican headquarters to see if they wanted to issue a statement, but we are still waiting to hear back.

At last check, a widespread manhunt was still underway for the 40-year-old gunman identified as Robert Card.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Md. (WDVM)  The man suspected of fatally shooting a Maryland circuit court judge has been found dead, according to authorities.

In a Thursday morning post to Facebook, the Washington County Sheriffs Office said Pedro Argote, 49, of Frederick, was found dead in a heavily wooded area of Williamsport, not far from where the shooting unfolded, ending a weeklong manhunt that rocked the largely rural community.

WCSO said that his body was found about one mile northwest of the area in which deputies recovered his SUV. Officials said Thursday morning that they had returned to the area to conduct additional evidentiary searches. They said there was no safety concern.

Argote was accused of killing Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, of Hagerstown.

Investigators believe Argote, angry about losing custody of his children, went to Wilkinsons home on Oct. 19 and shot him in his driveway. Wilkinson died at an area hospital, and authorities had been searching for Argote ever since.

Argotes divorce and custody case was before Wilkinson earlier in the day. Wilkinson gave custody of Argotes children to Argotes wife.

Maryland judge heard shocking evidence in divorce case hours before his killing, tapes show

Argote did not appear at the hearing. His wife and his adult daughter from a previous relationship testified, outlining patterns of abuse that took place over the course of several years. Among other things, the daughter said that Argote had cameras throughout the house watching her every move. She added that he would beat her with a belt and other items.

Two days after the shooting, on Oct. 21, the sheriffs office said it located Argotes SUV in the wooded area in Williamsport which crews searched again for evidence on Thursday.

The day the search picked up was the same day that people were to gather to pay their respects to Wilkinsons wife, children, and other family members during a visitation. Wilkinsons funeral was scheduled to take place Friday at St. Ann Catholic Church in Hagerstown.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
A man investigators believe was responsible for shooting four people in 2021 in downtown Orlando was arrested and charged with attempted murder, the Orlando Police Department announced Wednesday night.

Police responded to a shooting near Wall Street in the early morning of Nov. 1, 2021, as partygoers participated in Halloween celebrations in the area. Around 1:19 a.m., multiple shots were fired into a crowd, injuring four people.

Among them was a 16-year-old then-OPD Chief Orlando Rolon said was the target after a social media feud with his attacker.

All four victims survived their injuries.

The alleged shooter, 20-year-old Antonio Jones, was later identified and arrested.

Along with second-degree attempted murder, Jones is being charged with three counts of aggravated battery with a firearm and five counts of discharging a firearm in public.

He is being held in the Orange county Jail on a $341,000 bond.

No affidavits were immediately available for release.
More than a week after a shooting near the South Carolina State Fairgrounds, where one person was killed and another was injured, an arrest has been made, the Columbia Police Department said.

Demetrius Jones, 34, was taken into custody Wednesday  in Junction City, Kansas, police said in a news release.

Jones, whos wanted on multiple charges following the Oct. 16 shooting in Columbia, was detained by officers during a traffic stop in Junction City, Kansas, according to the release. Thats more than 1,100 miles from where the Columbia shooting happened, just blocks from Williams-Brice Stadium.

Information about what Jones was doing in Kansas was not available. Police said Jones faces charges for murder, attempted murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime when he is extradited back to Columbia.

The charges stem from the Oct. 16 shooting, that happened at about 3:30 p.m. in the 1800 block of Mitchell Street, according to the release.

Police said Jones argued with another man while on Mitchell Street, then got a gun from inside a vehicle and fired several rounds at the two victims. Information about why the men were arguing was not available.

The Richland County Coroners Office said 27-year-old Ernest Matthew Byrd was killed, according to the release. Byrd was taken to an area hospital where he died days after getting shot in the upper body, police said.

The other male victim received a graze wound and was not seriously injured, according to police. Further information on that victims condition was not available.

There was no word on how long the extradition process would take, and when Jones is expected to be returned to Columbia.
Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., speaks during a campaign event at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County, Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, in Miami, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee ) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

A man was arrested after trespassing twice in one day at the Los Angeles home of presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., police confirmed Thursday.

Police first responded to a call about the 28-year-old man trespassing at about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, said Drake Madison, an officer with the Los Angeles Police Department.

The man was served an emergency protective order and released, but he returned to the property later that day, prompting police to arrest him for violating the order. He remained in police custody Thursday.

Kennedy 's campaign said in a statement that the man climbed a fence at the candidate's home but was detained by the candidate's private security company. Kennedy, who is running as an independent, was home at the time of both arrests, the campaign added.

The incidents come over a month after an armed man accused of impersonating a federal officer was arrested at a Kennedy campaign event. Kennedy and his campaign have repeatedly argued that he needs Secret Service protection.

In September, Kennedy's then-campaign manager wrote to President Joe Biden urging him to provide Secret Service protection to the candidate. Kennedy's uncle, President John F. Kennedy, and his father, Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, were both assassinated.

The campaign's statement said Kennedy's private security company was already aware of the trespasser, whom the campaign called an obsessed individual. The company had alerted the Secret Service about him and shared alarming communications he had sent to the candidate, the campaign said.

Protection for presidential candidates is not up to the U.S. Secret Service and is instead determined by the Department of Homeland Security in consultation with a congressional advisory committee. While major candidates for president or vice president can get Secret Service protection, the vast majority of primary candidates do not.

The campaign said it sent a new request for protection to DHS on Wednesday, its third formal request so far. DHS did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment Thursday from The Associated Press.

A law enforcement official on Thursday said the Secret Service does not monitor people it is not actively protecting, like Kennedy. When a request for protection comes in, the official said, the service does an assessment, but it stops monitoring when that is complete. The official, who was not authorized to discuss the situation publicly and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity, said Kennedy was not being assessed at the time of Wednesdays incidents.

____

Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner contributed to this report.

____

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
A trespassing man was arrested outside Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Cheryl Hines house then came back the next day and got arrested again, according to a report.

The suspicious man was first spotted outside the couples Brentwood, California, home on Wednesday morning, police sources told TMZ.

Its unclear exactly what the man was trying to do, but he was stopped by Kennedys security. Hines was home at the time, according to TMZ. Its unclear if Kennedy was there as well.

Cops arrived to find the man had been subdued by the private security team, the outlet reported. The same man then returned to the Kennedy-Hines home early Thursday, around 1:30 a.m., sources told TMZ. He was once again arrested, this time for violating a court order.

Kennedy, 69, has become a controversial political figure for spreading his anti-vaccine beliefs across the country. He attempted a run for the Democratic nomination for president before pivoting earlier this month and running as an independent. Kennedys father, Robert F. Kennedy Sr., and his uncle, John F. Kennedy, were both assassinated while holding political office.

Hines, 58, is best known for appearing on Curb Your Enthusiasm as the wife of Larry Davids character. She and Kennedy married in 2014.

Kennedy has now dealt with multiple dangerous situations during his long-shot presidential campaign. In September, an armed man attempting to disguise himself as a U.S. Marshal was detained at one of Kennedys campaign events in Los Angeles.

_____
A Virginia man helped scam over a dozen people out of nearly $90,000 in different schemes, including one that involved fake real estate listings, according to federal prosecutors.

Richard Edward Hardy, 55 of Portsmouth, and other co-conspirators who werent publicly identified, worked together to defraud nearly 20 people nationwide between 2020 and 2022, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Eastern District of Virginia announced in an Oct. 25 news release.

The man carried out these schemes after having been convicted of similar conduct in state court in December 2020, prosecutors said.

In the real estate scheme, homes were advertised as available to rent online  but they werent actually available, according to court documents.

Hardy duped people into sending payments to his home to cover security deposits and first months rent for the properties, a statement of facts filed in court says.

One victim, from Florida, came across a fake listing online for a single-family home for rent in Orlando in June 2022, according to court documents. The would-be tenant reached out to express interest in renting the home, not knowing he was actually communicating with a scammer.

The scammer told the prospective renter to send money orders to their assistant, Hardy, through FedEx, documents said. As a result, the victim mailed the man two U.S. Postal Service money orders worth a total of $1,150, according to prosecutors.

Now, a judge has sentenced Hardy to two years in prison in connection with the mail fraud schemes, according to the release.

McClatchy News reached out to a federal public defender representing Hardy for comment on Oct. 26 and didnt receive an immediate response.

Another scam Hardy helped carry out was a romance scheme, prosecutors said.

One woman, from Utah, was conned into sending the Virginia man money orders after meeting his co-conspirator, named Kevin, on an online dating site, according to court documents, which said she agreed to help financially support Kevin in buying a business.

Overall, Hardy victimized 19 people, including the Utah woman, of $87,267, the statement of facts says.

He would have received another $104,457 that was mailed to him in connection with the separate schemes, but authorities intercepted the money, according to the statement of facts.

Portsmouth is about 5 miles southwest of Norfolk.

Man stole mail and drained millions from Beverly Hills residents accounts, feds say

NASCAR team owner didnt pay nearly $400K in payroll taxes, feds say. Now hes charged

Woman made $320K selling fake Social Security and COVID documents on Facebook, feds say
A man from Florida was charged with 12 felony counts after he was accused of carjacking a man outside a Michigan fitness center, then kidnapping and torturing him, prosecutors said.

A 24-year-old man was outside the Lifetime Fitness in Shelby Township on Oct. 23 when he was approached by four individuals, according to news releases from the Sterling Heights Police Department and Macomb County Prosecutors Office.

One of the individuals was identified as Angel Antonio Andujar-Ruiz, 38, of Tampa, Florida, prosecutors said.

The group carjacked the 24-year-old, tied him up and put him in his Black GMC pickup truck, police said.

The suspects allegedly tortured the victim, drove the victim to his house, and entered the residence, prosecutors said.

Police searching for the abducted man arrived at his home and Andujar-Ruiz got back into the GMC with the 24-year-old before driving off.

What followed was a high-speed chase through neighborhoods, police said.

A video of the chase was shared by the police department on Facebook on Oct. 24.

Andujar-Ruiz crashed the vehicle and tried to run before he was Tased and taken into custody.

On Oct. 24, the prosecutors office announced Andujar-Ruiz had been charged with 12 felony counts:

carjacking

conspiracy carjacking

armed robbery

conspiracy armed robbery

torture

home invasion in the first degree

conspiracy home invasion in the first degree

unlawful imprisonment

conspiracy unlawful imprisonment

three counts of firearm possession

The other three individuals involved were not identified and have not been taken into custody as of Oct. 26.

Officials did not release the relationship between Andujar-Ruiz and the 24-year-old or why Andujar-Ruiz was in Michigan, but said they do not believe the abduction was random.

The 24-year-old suffered non-life-threatening injuries, police said.

The severity of this crime cannot be understated, and it is imperative that we work together to ensure justice prevails, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in an Oct. 25 news release.

Shelby Township is about 30 miles north of Detroit.

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911 caller reports finding 5 bodies while visiting home, North Carolina officials say
A jackpot win earned a North Carolina man a dream trip to the states lottery headquarters.

David Shafer made the 30 mile trek to Raleigh to claim his $236,439 Fast Play jackpot prize, North Carolina Education Lottery officials said in a news release.

The Benson man tried his luck on a $10 50X The Cash ticket and nabbed 100% of the prize pool. He claimed his prize Oct. 25 and walked away with $168,466 after taxes, officials said.

I always joked with people at stores that I want the ticket that will take me to Raleigh, Shafer told lottery officials. Im still kind of in shock though.

He said he bought the winning ticket Tuesday, Oct. 24, at a Country Mart store in Benson, according to the release. Shafer then saw the jackpot prize fall from more than $200,000 to $20,000 and figured someone else was the lucky winner.

I never pictured winning something like this, he told officials. I thought about it though.

Fast Play games have a rolling jackpot that increases each time a ticket is purchased, according to the state lotterys website.

Shafer beat odds of 1 in 320,000 to win the entire jackpot and said he plans to put most of his winnings in the bank, lottery officials said.

Benson is about 30 miles south of downtown Raleigh.

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.

Man won big Powerball prize in Maryland  then went to work like nothing happened

Man starts slapping himself when he sees North Carolina lottery winnings. Am I awake?

Lottery app said man didnt win, but then he checked it again  and started shaking
(KTLA)  A Malibu man has pleaded not guilty to four counts of murder in connection with a high-speed crash that killed four Pepperdine University students last week.

Fraser Michael Bohm, 22, also faces four counts of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said Tuesday.

Bohm was allegedly going 104 mph in a 45 mph zone on the Pacific Coast Highway on the night of Oct. 17 when he lost control and crashed into four sorority sisters who were walking along the road a few miles from campus. Bohm reportedly sideswiped at least three parked cars before crashing into the four college seniors, as well as two other people.

The four women  identified as Niamh Rolston of Los Angeles; Peyton Stewart of Westwood, New Jersey; Asha Weir, who grew up in Skippack, Pennsylvania; and Deslyn Williams of Atlanta by Pepperdine University  died at the scene. The two other victims were taken to the hospital.

WATCH: Deer charges through crowded Wisconsin restaurant

While Bohm was arrested at the scene, he was released from custody hours later as authorities investigated the circumstances of the crash. He was eventually re-arrested and booked on suspicion of murder.

The defendants attorney, Michael Kraut, told The Associated Press the crash occurred as Bohm was being chased following a road rage incident. Bohm had been texting at a stop light when a man in another car began shouting and then pursued him, Kraut said.

Bohm passed all field sobriety tests following the crash, Kraut said, and has no criminal record, not even a traffic ticket.

Los Angeles County Sheriffs Sgt. Jim Arens said at the news conference that investigators had no evidence that the crash stemmed from a road rage incident.

Bohm, who turned 22 the day before the crash, was a student-athlete in high school. A 2017 Los Angeles Times story said the infielder-pitcher at Chaminade Prep was highly regarded.

Las Vegas teens accused in deadly crime spree appear to laugh in courtroom, smile at victims family

Bohm was previously being held on $8 million bail, but that was reduced to $4 million, the DAs office explained. He faces multiple life sentences if convicted as charged.

We lost four young people with a complete life ahead of them, for really no reason other than complete and reckless disregard for the life of others, Gascon said.

Our hearts go out to the families, loved ones, and the Pepperdine University family as they cope with this unimaginable pain, Gascon added. Today we stand in deep sorrow for the loss of four innocent lives tragically taken in a senseless act. We want to assure the community that we are committed to seeking justice for those who have been taken from us too soon.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
A law enforcement officer carries a rifle outside Central Maine Medical Center during an active shooter situation, in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. AP Photo/Steven Senne

Eighteen people were killed in a mass shooting in the Maine city of Lewiston and the suspected shooter is still at large.

Police said they are hunting a man they consider "armed and dangerous."

A police bulletin said he is a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve.

The suspected gunman in a mass shooting in a Maine city is a firearms instructor who is in the US Army Reserve, according to a police bulletin seen by the Associated Press.

Maine State Police announced an active shooter in the city of Lewiston on Wednesday night. Lewiston Police identified two locations in the shooting: Schemengees, a restaurant and billiards hall; and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley and said Thursday morning that 18 people had been killed.

Maine State Police said on Thursday that they were searching for Robert R. Card, and that he is "considered armed and dangerous."

In a press conference Thursday morning, police said Card was still at large and that police asked residents in Lewiston, Lisbon, and Bowdoin, Maine, to shelter in place as authorities search for the suspect.

"We have an incredibly strong, laser-like focus on bringing this suspect into custody and ultimately to justice," said Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck.

A person of interest identified by police as Robert Card is seen in this handout image released October 25, 2023 Lewiston Maine Police Department via Facebook/Handout via REUTERS

In a bulletin seen by the Associated Press, Card was described as a firearms instructor who is believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The bulletin also said Card was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

It said Card had reported "hearing voices and threats to shoot up" the military base, but did not give further details about what he was dealing with or his treatment.

At the press conference Thursday, Sauschuck declined to answer questions about how Card was able to own a firearm, noting that the investigation had just begun and police couldn't speak to his motive yet.

"The statutes around firearms and the possession of those are pretty complex," Sauschuck said.

The AP tried to contact Card using a phone number in public records, but the number was not in service.

An Army spokesman identified him as Sgt. 1st Class Robert R. Card II, a Petroleum Supply Specialist in the Army Reserve who enlisted in December 2002, Fox News Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin reported.

He had earned an Army Achievement Medal and a Humanitarian Service Medal, but has no combat deployments, the spokesman said.

Law enforcement urged those who see someone matching Carr's description not to approach him but instead call 911 or either tip line set up for the manhunt: (207) 213-9526 or (207) 509-9002.

Update October 26, 2023: This story was updated with the latest information about the death toll in the shooting, as well as the ongoing manhunt for the shooting suspect.

Read the original article on Insider
A Sedgwick County judge has sentenced a Wichita paraeducator to six years, five months in prison for having unlawful sexual relationships with two high school students.

Daniel Alonso-Hernandez, 34, of Wichita, was working at Wichita South High School when he was accused of committing the crimes. He pleaded guilty in September to unlawful sexual relations and aggravated indecent liberties with a child, a news release from the Sedgwick County District Attorneys Office says. He was sentenced by District Judge Eric Williams on Tuesday.

According to arrest affidavits released by the court in his two criminal cases, Alonso-Hernandez approached and preyed on the girls using social media. In one case, he posed as a 22-year-old college student when he interacted over Snapchat with a 17-year-old high school girl who was a student at South High, the affidavit states. The girl told police she first met him in person in May 2020 when he came by her work.

In the subsequent months, the girl sneaked out of her house to meet him for sex and he wrote her love letters under a pseudonym that talked of missing her and how he watched videos he took of her at least 7 times a day, one of the affidavits says.

When she tried to end the relationship, Alonso-Hernandez would use the videos as threats to keep her with him or break her up with a current boyfriend, the affidavit says the girl told police.

His illegal sexual involvement with the second teen girl came to light after she saw his mugshot published with a news article about his arrest in the other case.

That girl told police she met Alonso-Hernandez on Snapchat in 2019 when she was 15, and he claimed to be a high school senior. She met him in person at least twice, and he raped her the last time when she thought they were meeting only to talk, the other affidavit says.

That girl told authorities she saw his mugshot when she was flipping through her nephews Snapchat story, recognized him as her attacker and reported it. DNA linked him to the assault, the affidavit says.

In Kansas, its illegal for educators to perform sex acts with their teenage students, regardless of age. Its also illegal for adults to perform sex acts with anyone younger than 16.
A Beavercreek man was sentenced to at least eight years in prison for beating his stepdaughter until she bled.

John Cantrell, 37, received a sentence of 8 to 12 years in prison after being convicted of endangering children, according to the Greene County Prosecutors Office.

The conviction is related to the abuse of Cantrells then 12-year-old stepdaughter in October 2021.

News Center 7 was in the courtroom in August when jurors found the girls biological mother, Tchanavian Cantrell, and stepfather, John, guilty on all counts.

The child was repeatedly hit with a metal-studded belt until she had severe abrasions, according to prosecutors.

>> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Greene Co. mother, stepfather found guilty after daughter beat with belt approximately 200 times

Isopropyl alcohol was then sprayed directly onto the open wounds.

The child ran to a nearby middle school and ran away when Tchanavian came to collect her.

She was found in a wooded area where she told police about the abuse.

This was not discipline, but the torture of a child that is deserving of the maximum sentence permitted by law. I am thankful for Judge Tornichios thoughtful consideration of the facts of this case and am grateful that he imposed a sentence of 8 to 12 years. It is my hope that this sentence will further assist the victim as she continues to recover and move on from this horrific event, Greene County Prosecutor David D. Hayes said.

Tchanavian is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 31, according to online court records.
























The Washington County Sheriffs Office holds a press conference on Thursday after Pedro Argote, 49, was found dead in a wooded area during a search in Williamsport, Md. Photo courtesy of Washington County Sheriff's Office

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- The man suspected of fatally shooting a Maryland judge who had been overseeing his divorce case was found dead Thursday, according to authorities.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office said Pedro Argote, 49, was found dead in a wooded area around 11 a.m. during a search in Williamsport, Md.

During a press conference, Sheriff Brian K. Albert said Argote's body was found approximately a mile away from where his silver 2009 Mercedes GL 450 SUV was found abandoned over the weekend.

"The Washington County community can breathe a little easier this afternoon," said Albert. "Murder suspect Pedro Argote was located deceased."

His cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner's Office, Albert said, and deputies did not comment about whether a weapon had been found.

On Thursday, the Washington County Sheriffs Office held a press conference after Pedro Argote, 49, was found dead in a wooded area during a search in Williamsport, Md. Photo courtesy of Washington County Sheriff's Office

Williamsport is located roughly eight miles southwest of Hagerstown, Md., where authorities say Argote shot and killed Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson in his driveway while his family was home.

The shooting occurred shortly after Wilkinson had awarded custody of the couple's four minor children to Argote's estranged wife during a divorce proceeding. Wilkinson had ordered Argote to provide monthly child support payments of $1,120 and barred him from entering the family's Hagerstown residence.

"It's relief, but it's still a tragedy that we're dealing with," said Albert. "Most of us up here we just came from Judge Wilkinson's viewing, met with the family. It brings a little bit of closure to them, but it's still a tragedy. They lost a husband, father and a brother."

The Maryland Judiciary's Government Relations and Public Affairs Office issued a statement Thursday, thanking all law-enforcement agencies for their help and requesting privacy for the slain judge's family.

Wilkinson's widow, Stephanie Wilkinson, expressed gratitude earlier this week for the outpouring of support following the untimely passing of her husband.

"My family and I are touched by the overwhelming response from family, friends, co-workers, local and state politicians, and Governor Moore," she said in a statement.

Wilkinson's funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday at the Saint Ann Roman Catholic Church in Hagerstown.
A couple walks by a banner that was put up in response to this weeks deadly mass shootings, on Friday, Oct. 27, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. Police are still searching for the suspect who killed at least 18 in separate shootings at a bowling alley and restaurant on Wednesday. | Robert F. Bukaty, Associated Press

A man suspected of killing 18 people was found dead Friday night, following a massive search that started Wednesday night after he opened fire on a bowling alley and then a restaurant in Lewiston, Maine.

Shooting suspect Robert Card was found dead, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, near the Androscoggin River in the Maine community of Lisbon Falls, CNN reported.

Now is a time to heal, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said during a news conference, per CNN. Tonight the city of Lewiston and the state of Maine begin to move forward on a long road to healing. We will heal together.

What we know about the suspect in the Maine shooting

Card was wanted on eight counts of murder, but it will likely become 18 counts eventually because 10 of the victims remain unidentified, The Associated Press reported.

He had not been deployed or served in deployment since December 2002 and was serving as a petroleum supply specialist for the Army Reserve prior to the shooting, The Washington Post reported.

In July, Card was taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, per AP.

Police warned he was likely armed and dangerous, and authorities released photos of Card and urged people in the area to stay inside with the doors locked and to be on the lookout for the suspect before he was found.

What we know about the Maine shooting

The shooter entered a bowling alley, as well as a restaurant Wednesday night, shooting multiple people in both places. Police are on an intensive manhunt for Card, who officials say is a person of interest, CNN reported.

Reports of a shooting at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, started coming in around 7 p.m. and were shortly followed by reports of a shooting at Schemengees Bar & Grill, which is a 12-minute drive away, according to The New York Times.

Its scary, Zoey Levesque, a 10-year-old who was grazed by a bullet, told The Associated Press. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

A sign advises residents to stay home, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, following a mass shooting at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine. Police continue to search for the suspect. | Robert F. Bukaty, Associated Press

Shelter-in-place orders are still in place and have expanded to surrounding towns. Officials also warned the death toll is likely to rise.

The shooting is the deadliest of the year, ABC News reported.

What witnesses are saying about the Maine shooting

Lewiston is considered a blue-collar working-class community with a population of 60,000, according to NBC News.

One witness, who only gave his first name, Brandon, and experienced the shooting at the bowling alley, said he first heard a loud pop.

Thought it was a balloon, Brandon told ABC News. I had my back turned to the door. As soon as I turned and saw that it was not a balloon, he was holding a weapon. I just bucked it down the lane and I slid basically into where the pins are and climbed up to the machine and was on top of the machines for about 10 minutes until the cops got there.

Schemengees Bar and Grill posted on Facebook sharing a message of grief early Thursday morning.

My heart is crushed, the Facebook post said. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason. We loss great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.
Engineering Design Bureau, a corporation in the Russian city of Kolomna, which produces Iskander and Kinzhal missiles, continues to receive components from Europe and other countries with the help of intermediary firms.

Source: The Insider

Details: In particular, journalists found out that the corporation, which is part of Rostec, receives American chips for missiles from China. They are purchased by the Moscow company ETS Electronics LLC, established in 2021, from the Chinese company ETC Electronics Limited.

Engineering Design Bureau receives other components for missiles from Europe. For example, heat and cold chambers are imported from Poland through the Moscow company Ostek-Test LLC, and the lathes are purchased in Germany by KEB-Rus LLC. Intermediary companies also purchase products from manufacturers in Lithuania, Latvia, Belgium and the UK.

Sergey Pitikov has been in charge of the Engineering Design Bureau since Soviet times. His daughter Maya Pitikova, according to the publication, lives near Malmo in Sweden. In a conversation with reporters, she said that "the Putin regime is waging a criminal, bloody, senseless war," but refused to comment on other matters: "I am not ready to participate in a conversation that has been directed against my father from the very beginning."

Background:

On the night of 4 May, a "supersonic" Kh-47 Kinzhal missile was shot down for the first time over Kyiv.

Subsequently, Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, confirmed that the Ukrainian military shot down the Russian Kinzhal missile: "I congratulate the Ukrainian people on a historic event! Yes, we downed the unique Kinzhal missile!"

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Data shows gun ownership in the US has grown over the last several years

Gun violence is a fixture in American life - but the issue is a highly political one, pitting gun control advocates against people who are fiercely protective of their right to bear arms.

We've looked into some of the numbers behind firearms in the US.

Mass shootings on the rise

There have been more than 560 mass shootings across the US so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more people are injured or killed. Their figures include shootings that happen in homes and in public places.

For each of the last three years there have been more than 600 mass shootings - almost two a day on average.

The deadliest such attack, in Las Vegas in 2017, killed more than 50 people and left 500 wounded. The vast majority of mass shootings, however, leave fewer than 10 people dead.

Bar chart showing the number of mass shooting incidents that have happened in the US since 2014, with the lowest figure being in 2014 at 273 incidents, then being between 330-420 for the next five years before jumping to above 600 in 2020 and every full year since. The data is from www.gunviolencearchive.org.

How do US gun deaths break down?

48,830 people died from gun-related injuries in the US during 2021, according to the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

That's nearly an 8% increase from 2020, which was a record-breaking year for firearm deaths.

While mass shootings and gun murders (homicides) generally garner much media attention, more than half of the total in 2021 were suicides.

Chart showing a breakdown of gun-related deaths in the US

That year, more than 20,000 of the deaths were homicides, according to the CDC.

Data shows more than 50 people are killed each day by a firearm in the US.

That's a significantly larger proportion of homicides than is the case in Canada, Australia, England and Wales, and many other countries.

Graphic showing an international comparison of gun-related killings as a percentage of all homicides in each country. The US leads with nearly 80.5% of all homicides occurring with guns, compared with 40% in Canada, 11% in Australia and 4% in England & Wales..

How many guns are there in the US?

While calculating the number of guns in private hands around the world is difficult, the latest figures from the Small Arms Survey - a Swiss-based research project - estimated that there were 390 million guns in circulation in the US in 2018.

The US ratio of 120.5 firearms per 100 residents, up from 88 per 100 in 2011, far surpasses that of other countries around the world.

Chart showing civilian gun ownership around the world

More recent data out of the US suggests that gun ownership grew significantly over the last few years. A study, published by the Annals of Internal Medicine in February, found that 7.5 million US adults became new gun owners between January 2019 and April 2021.

This, in turn, exposed 11 million people to firearms in their homes, including 5 million children. About half of new gun owners in that time period were women, while 40% were either black or Hispanic.

Who supports gun control?

A majority of Americans are in favour of gun control.

57% of Americans surveyed said they wanted stricter gun laws - although this fell last year - according to polling by Gallup.

32% said the laws should remain the same, while 10% of people surveyed said they should be "made less strict".

Gun control opinion

The issue is extremely divisive, falling largely along party lines.

"Democrats are nearly unanimous in their support for stricter gun laws," another Gallup study noted, with nearly 91% in favour of stricter gun laws.

Only 24% Republicans, on the other hand, agreed with the same statement, along with 45% of Independent voters.

Some states have taken steps to ban or strictly regulate ownership of assault weapons. Laws vary by state but California, for example, has banned ownership of assault weapons with limited exceptions.

Map showing states with assault weapon bans - California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York & Washington DC, and those with restrictions Minnesota, Virginia and Washington, March 2023

Some controls are widely supported by people across the political divide - such as restrictions governing the sale of guns to people who are mentally ill or on "watch" lists.

Who opposes gun control?

Despite years of financial woes and internal strife, the National Rifle Association (NRA) remains the most powerful gun lobby in the United States, with a substantial budget to influence members of Congress on gun policy.

Over the last several election cycles, it, and other organisations, have consistently spent more on pro-gun rights messaging than their rivals in the gun control lobby.

A line chart showing the amount spent per year by gun rights groups and gun control groups on federal lobbying in the US from 2008 to 2022. Gun rights groups have consistently spent more than double what gun control groups have. Gun rights spending peaked in 2013 at just under $20m - gun control groups spent just under $3m in the same year. In 2022, gun rights groups spent $13m, while their opponents spent $2.3m.

A number of states have also gone as far as to largely eliminate restrictions on who can carry a gun. In June 2021, for example, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed into law a "permitless carry bill" that allows the state's residents to carry handguns without a licence or training.

Similarly, in April last year Georgia became the 25th in the nation to eliminate the need for a permit to conceal or openly carry a firearm. The law means any citizen of that state has the right to carry a firearm without a licence or a permit.

The law was backed by the NRA, and leaders within the organisation called the move "a monumental moment for the Second Amendment".
A coal-fired power plant in the Red Desert, in the south-central part of Wyoming on Dec. 15, 2014. (Michael Kirby Smith/The New York Times)

Of all of the efforts by the Biden administration to protect environmentally fragile lands, few have generated as much vitriol as a proposal that would block oil and gas drilling on 1.6 million acres of high desert sagebrush steppe in Wyoming.

One lawmaker in the Republican-led Wyoming Legislature called President Joe Biden s plan an attempt at total government control. Another declared it the worst disaster in American history, affecting more people than the Civil War, Pearl Harbor and 9/11 combined. Some spread fears that China would influence the governments decision-making. A federal lands manager said she had received violent threats, prompting an investigation by the FBI.

The 1,350-page proposal for managing 3.6 million of acres of federal land in southwestern Wyoming was years in the making but still took many Wyoming residents by surprise when the Bureau of Land Management made it public in August.

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In addition to blocking energy development on nearly half that land, or 1.6 million acres, the plan would also restrict mining and some grazing. Those areas include petroglyphs dating back some 200 years, North Americas largest sand dunes and migration corridors in the Red Desert for bighorn sheep, mule deer and elk.

The explosive reactions illustrate how Bidens climate policies are running into a wall of distrust in some oil and gas states.

The actions that this administration has taken to date have been perilous for Wyoming by and large, Gov. Mark Gordon , a Republican, said in an interview. I think people in Wyoming realize this administration has put its foot on the neck of their state.

As a candidate, Biden pledged to end new federal oil and gas leasing. And, as president, he has said he wants to conserve at least 30% of public lands and waters by 2030. Both are part of an aggressive agenda to curb climate change, though Biden has approved some large fossil fuel projects. Political and legal concerns have played a role in those decisions.

Biden now faces fresh pressure from Republicans to temper his clean energy agenda as the war between Israel and Hamas raises concerns about the global oil market. Experts have called the situation in the Middle East the biggest threat to energy supplies since Russia invaded Ukraine last year.

We are in a bit of a bubble here right now with Ukraine and the Middle East, said Mark Squillace, a law professor at the University of Colorado Boulder. Squillace said if oil prices climbed there could be heightened interest in federal oil and gas leasing, but only in the short term.

This week the International Energy Agency projected that global demand for oil, gas and coal will peak by 2030, thanks in part to clean energy policies countries have already adopted.

I think we all know that in the next 20 years or so theres going to be a whole lot less oil and gas production, because of the trends that were seeing with electric vehicles and renewable energy, Squillace said. Wyoming, which also is grappling with collapsing demand for its coal, he added, should, of all states, know the consequences of not managing their land.

Wyoming is the nations top coal-producing state, holding about 40% of all reserves in the country. It also was the eighth-largest crude oil-producing state in 2022, accounting for 2% of total production; and the 10th-largest gas producer, accounting for 3% of national production.

The Bureau of Land Managements proposal for southern Wyoming, known as the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan, dates from 1997. The agency is required to periodically update the plan and in 2011 began to do so. That process should have taken months but instead dragged on nearly 12 years because of lawsuits and disputes over issues such as the protection of sage grouse habitat.

In August, the Biden administration issued a draft of its new plan, which outlined four management options. In an unusual move, it embraced the version, known as Alternative B, that would put the most land under special protections. It also would result in 2,900 fewer jobs in oil and gas drilling and production, according to the plan.

The backlash began almost immediately. Lawmakers accused the Biden administration of trying to pull Wyoming back to the Stone Age. Gordon sent a letter to the Bureau of Land Management director asking the agency to withdraw the entire plan. A local sheriff declared he would not enforce the plan if it were finalized.

The director of the Bureau of Land Managements field office in Rock Springs, Wyoming, Kimberlee Foster, told a local news outlet that her staff members had begun receiving threatening calls that were being investigated by the FBI. Its not really about specifics in the document, Foster said. The hate has been more political in nature.

The agency declined to make Foster available for an interview and directed questions about the threats to the FBI, which did not respond to a request for comment.

But a spokesman for the BLM, Brian Hires, also said there had been a significant area of misinformation around public access to public lands under the Biden plan.

For example, there have been rumors about no longer being able to walk your dog on public lands, roads closing, and hunting no longer being allowed, he said in a statement. None of this is true and we are taking every opportunity to separate fact from fiction.

For some opponents, the Rock Springs plan aggravated wounds already raw from Bidens plan to conserve 30% of federal land and waters by 2030. Wyoming officials, like many Republicans across the American West, call it a federal land grab.

The situation is ripe for this sort of anger to come to the surface, said state Sen. Brian Boner, a Republican. He noted the federal government already owned nearly half, 48%, of Wyoming land. You feel like you dont really have a voice in the way your state moves forward, and in this instance theres a significant threat to peoples livelihoods, he said.

Boner said his committee was drafting a bill to be considered in the next legislative session that would allow the governor to prohibit state and local officials from cooperating with federal policies that harm the core interests of Wyoming.

But there are many conservationists, tribal leaders, outdoor recreationists and others who said they supported more aggressive environmental protections.

RJ Pieper, 38, who now owns a photography studio in Rock Springs, spent more than a decade in the oil and gas industry.

At some point, we have to say where can we balance industry with making sure we protect the public lands we love to recreate on, said Pieper, who operated natural gas processing plants.

Pieper said he heads up to the Red Desert several days a week each spring and fears that drilling and mining would spoil the areas natural beauty. Hes also saddened by how acrimonious the debate has become.

Its a way of life, using our public lands, so I get why everyone is leading with emotion on this, Pieper said. But, he added, Were a very red state and its to the point where people believe anything Biden is bad.

Julia Stuble, senior manager for Wyoming at the Wilderness Society, an environmental group, noted that nearly half of the Rock Springs management area had already been leased for oil and gas. The areas in which the BLM has proposed to block new leases have low prospects for oil and gas yields, said Stuble, who criticized lawmakers for using inflammatory rhetoric in opposing the plan.

Critics and supporters of the plan alike have said Wyomingites need more time to study the draft. Late last week, the BLM extended the public comment period an additional 60 days, until Jan. 17. A final plan could come anytime after that.

Gordon said he hoped the extra time would help defuse the discord. He has ordered the University of Wyoming to hold workshops with conservationists, grazing interests, hunters, recreationists, oil and gas industry officials and the general public to discuss various options within the plan.

A lot of work happens between a draft plan and a final plan, and that work is best informed by people who roll up their sleeves to work together, said Tracy Stone-Manning, the BLM director, in a statement. We are committed to doing that work to finalize the final plan.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. - The name of a local high school that's been open since the '70s is now being reconsidered since the man it's currently named after once owned slaves.

In February, a petition was submitted to the Montgomery County Board of Education

requesting that the board consider renaming Colonel Zadok Magruder High School.

Census records dating back to 1790 revealed that the colonel owned at least 26 slaves, and kept them on his property near to where the school is currently located.

In 2020, students at the school launched a similar petition, calling for the Derwood-based high school to be renamed after someone who didn't participate in slavery. They garnered over 2,000 signatures for their cause.

"Col. Zadok Magruder chained humans. Our high school was named for him because he commanded a Maryland militia in the Revolutionary War. But now that we know that he shackled black people, lets rename our school after a non slaver," the Change.org petition reads.

DERWOOD, MD- January 22 : Colonel Zadok Magruder High School in Derwood, MD on January 22, 2022, the day after a student was shot inside during school hours. (Photo by Carolyn Van Houten/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

As a result of the latest outcry, Montgomery County Public Schools is holding a series of community dialogues to allow people to discuss what the school's name means to them, and how it affirms the school's educational mission and values.

These sessions are set up to help the school board determine the community's interest in renaming the school.

So far, there's been two meetings on the topic: one in-person at Magruder High School, and the other was held virtually over the weekend.

On Wednesday, school officials heard from community members at nearby Shady Grove Middle School  which feeds into Magruder.

The remaining sessions will be held Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6:30 p.m., at Flower Hill Elementary School and virtually on Friday, Oct. 27, from 12pm-1pm via Zoom.

Click to open this PDF in a new window.
Fugitive Pedro Argote was found dead Thursday morning, more than a week after he allegedly gunned down Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson, who awarded custody of Argote's four children to his wife.

At approximately 11 a.m., Argote's body was found in a heavily wooded area between Clear Spring and Bottom roads in the Williamsport, Maryland, area, the Washington County Sheriff's Office announced in a press release.

The location is about one mile from where Argote, 49, abandoned his 2009 Mercedes GL450 after the killing, the release said.

At a brief press conference Thursday afternoon, Sheriff Brian Albert told reporters that Argote's remains would be sent to Baltimore for an autopsy to determine the cause, manner and time of death.

MARYLAND JUDGE KILLED IN TARGETED ATTACK AFTER SUSPECT'S DIVORCE, CUSTODY HEARING: OFFICIALS

The U.S. Marshals Service launched a nationwide search for Pedro Argote, inset, before he turned up dead Thursday. He is suspected of killing Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson, left.

Albert declined to comment on whether a weapon was found near the body.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In response to a question about the reaction of Wilkinson's family to Argote's death, Albert said it had given them some peace. "The family was relieved that we brought this to a little bit of closure," the sheriff noted.

On Oct. 19, Wilkinson granted Argote's wife a divorce and sole custody of their four children, ages 3 to 12, after hearing harrowing testimony about abuse Argote had inflicted on his family for years.

Argote didn't show up for the hearing, claiming he had a headache.

His wife tearfully testified that he had controlled every detail of her life and had become increasingly violent, once stuffing a towel in their baby's mouth.

Argote's adult daughter from a previous relationship told the judge she spent most of her teenage years confined to her bedroom. Her father, she said, had installed cameras throughout their house to watch her every move.

FORMER WISCONSIN COUNTY JUDGE KILLED IN 'TARGETED' ATTACK ON JUDICIAL SYSTEM: REPORT

Pedro Argote, right, is suspected of fatally shooting Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson on Oct. 19.

He often beat her with a belt and other objects. When she turned 18, she said she moved out and cut off all contact with him.

"The reason I worked up the courage to testify was so that my siblings wouldnt have to go through the mental torment that I currently have," she told the court, according to an audio recording of the proceeding.

Wilkinson concluded that Argote was an unfit parent.

"The manner in which Mr. Argote has isolated these children and mom over the past two years, I think that has gone on throughout the marriage, and its shocking," the judge said. "I think he is abusive in multiple ways."

MARYLAND JUDGE FATALLY SHOT IN DRIVEWAY ISSUED JUDGMENT IN SUSPECT'S DIVORCE CASE

The ruling came after a protracted divorce and custody hearing that began last month and spanned several days.

In addition to granting Argote's wife custody, Wilkinson barred the father from having any contact with his children or visiting the family home.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS APP

That night, Argote allegedly showed up at Wilkinson's home in Hagerstown and gunned him down in his driveway while his wife and son were inside.

"Im sure were going to have discussions in the future on how to protect judges a little better," the sheriff said at Thursday's press conference.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.





Original article source: Maryland judge killer Pedro Argote found dead, police say
On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in several locations. Police scrambled to find the shooter, advising residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old man, was the person of interest in the shootings that claimed dozens of lives at a Lewiston bar and bowling alley.

Heres what we know so far.

Who is Robert Card?

After identifying Robert Card as the person of interest, the sheriffs office made photos of him public for identification. He could be seen in the images wearing brown clothes and brandishing a high-powered assault-style rifle.

The law enforcement also unveiled a picture of the vehicle under investigation  a compact white SUV featuring a front bumper painted black. It was a car that the Maine State Police confirmed as belonging to the shooter.

As of 9pm local time on Wednesday evening, the shooter remained at large.

City councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN that the death toll reached 22. My understanding is that they have a tentative identification... of the shooter at the bowling alley, confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured, he said.

John Miller, chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst for CNN, described the weapon as an AR15-style rifle with a possible telescopic sight. He noted that the gunman was wearing blue tactical pants with bulging pockets, suggesting the possibility that he was carrying extra ammunition.

The person of interest, Card, should be considered armed and dangerous, police said.

As per law enforcement reports, Card served as a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve. He recently disclosed mental health issues, citing experiences of auditory hallucinations including hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, according to a Maine law enforcement bulletin seen by the Associated Press.

He was also committed to a mental health facility for two weeks during the summer of 2023. According to a report by Macra, Card has a history of arrests for domestic violence and other crimes.

Where did the incidents occur?

Police, fire and rescue personnel first descended on Sparetime Recreation on Mollison Way, in Lewiston, about 7.15pm local time after a report of an active shooter, according to Maine newspaperThe Sun Journal.

Shortly afterwards, reports circulated online that another incident had taken place at a local bar and restaurant  Schemengees  on nearby Lincoln Street.

Around an hour after the first police activity, Lewiston public information officer Derrick St Laurent told The Sun Journal that another shooting had been reported at the Walmart Distribution Center on Alfred A Plourde Parkway.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs office later released two pictures of the person of interest entering a bowling alley  appearing to confirm reports on the first location.

What happened in the initial aftermath?

Video shared online showed multiple police vehicles in the local area.

A message put out online by Maine State Police advised members of the public to shelter in place.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, the force said.

If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.

A text sent out by Lewiston Public Schools urged anyone near or at the school for conferences to get in a safe place.

We are going into lockdown. I will provide more information as it is available and appropriate, the alert read.

Hundreds of police officers are searching for Robert Card, a person of interest in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, that killed and injured several people. pic.twitter.com/2WdTigbewY  The Associated Press (@AP) October 26, 2023

How many people have been shot?

The number of people shot was not immediately clear, though the Central Maine Medical Center said it was responding to a mass casualty event. Later, officials said the death toll rose to 22.

Central Maine Medical Center is reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event. At this time there are no specifics to share on the number of casualties, the hospital wrote in an online statement.

Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

NBC News said that at least 22 people had been killed.

ABC News reported that 16 people had been killed, with dozens more injured. The outlet cited law enforcement sources who have been briefed on the shooting.

CNN sources said that there had been 16 fatalities and that between 50 and 60 people had been wounded.

How is Lewiston dealing with the tragedy?

Local schools have announced they will cancel classes on Thursday.

There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate, Lewiston Public Schools said.

Stay close to your loved ones. Embrace them. Our prayers go out to those who lost someone tonight. Our prayers go out to all those working to stop further loss of life.

Town offices in Lisbon, which neighbours Lewiston, will also be closed on Thursday, it was reported.
At least 18 people are dead after two horrific mass shootings at a Maine restaurant and bowling alley on Wednesday night, and we are left with the usual questions: Why does this keep happening? and What, if anything, could have prevented it? There is an understandable desire to do something about thisright now!

If Hamas had been behind these shootings, we would already be mobilizing the national guard and dispatching another aircraft carrier to the Middle East. If the Proud Boys were the culprits, we would already be focused on white supremacy and right-wing political radicalization. If this were a school shooting, we would be discussing background checks, hardening school security, the peril of first-person shooter video games, or bullying.

In this case, however, there is thus far no manifesto or political motive. The suspect was a 40-year-old firearms instructor believed to be in the U.S. Army Reserve, according to Associated Press. He had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023 and was reportedly hearing voices and threats to shoot up his military base.

Family Reveals Suspected Gunmans Link to Maine Massacre Sites

As such, this most recent mass shooting is more likely to lead us to discussions about mental health in general, whether the military should be doing more to test and address mental health, and red flag laws. These are valid discussions.

According to a 2018 ABC News story, Three of the 10 deadliest mass shootings in modern U.S. history were at the hands of veterans...

I am also reminded that, aside from harboring radical Islamist views, Maj. Nidal Hasan, who was convicted of killing 13 people at Fort Hood a decade ago, was also described as disconnected, aloof, paranoid, belligerent, and schizoid.

We also do not want to advance a narrative that veterans or brave active duty men and women who serve this nation are predisposed to be predators. Nor should we confuse correlation with causation.

In the aftermath of any mass shooting, gun control is an obvious topic of conversation. According to AP, Maine doesnt require permits to carry guns. This fact would likely be more relevant if the person of interest was not reportedly a firearms instructor.

This brings us to the topic of red flag laws, which is where the topics of gun control and mental health directly intersect. As Washington Monthly columnist Bill Scher observed, Maine does not have a red flag law, [t]hough it does have a yellow flag law, which has more conditions than a red flag law.

So what are the current conditions? According to the Portland Press Herald, Anyone under a restriction cannot possess or buy any weapons and faces arrest if they do. Theyre also put on a registry thats sent out to licensed gun dealers. If they didnt give their weapons to a family member for safekeeping, police will seize them until the order is lifted.

Americas Tragedy Is Its Culture of FearArmed With Millions of Guns

Critics of this law argue that it is too time-consuming and resource-intensive, as it involves police, district attorneys, defense attorneys, judges and medical professionals. Still, although it is more limited than a traditional red-flag law, it sounds to me like Maine already had a law on the books that, if rigorously enforced, might have prevented this shooting.

The suspects sister-in-law told The Daily Beast that He truly believed he was hearing people say things. How could someone whose family understood he was hearing voicesand who had been institutionalized as recently as this summerobtain a firearm, despite Maines law?

The obvious problems are that a) people who are willing to kill innocent people are not sticklers for following the law, and b) in a free country where guns are almost ubiquitous and people are inclined to mind their own business, its inevitably hard to police such laws.

Maine Gunman Opened Fire During Childrens Bowling League

Its almost always the case that, no matter how horrific the shooting, someone could claim, no law would have stopped this from happening. Indeed, mass shootings happen in states with red flag laws; those laws clearly failed to keep weapons out of the hands of dangerous or mentally ill people.

The truth is that no reform will be a panacea, but smart reforms will reduce the number of these incidents. According to The New York Times, Jeffrey W. Swanson, a professor in psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Duke University, has calculated that for every 10 to 20 people who had guns taken away, one life was saved.

Commentary at this point in any sort of mass shooting or disaster is bound to get things wrong. Its entirely possible that some of the reportingeven from ostensibly reliable sourceswill turn out to be inaccurate. Caveat emptor, as they say.

You Can Support Gun Rights Without Making It a Creepy Fetish

In my mind, there are two big takeaways, if we are to use this horrible event to try and prevent the next one. The first is to provide better mental health services, with an emphasis on veterans and military members. The second is to pass strong red-flag laws in all 50 states and normalize rigorous enforcement of those laws.

Although there will be inevitable pushback to these ideas, they dont cast one side as gun-grabbers and the other side as uncaring gunslingers who see shooting victims as the cost of doing business in a free society.

The devil is in the details, but almost everybody says they want to address our mental health crisis in America today. Meanwhile, red-flag laws are broadly popular, even among Republicans.

Even if it turns out that the suspect was not a veteran and was never committed to an institution, it would still make sense to address these issues.

The time to hesitate is through.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Maud Kells spoke to BBC News NI in 2015, just weeks after she survived being shot

The former County Tyrone missionary Maud Kells, who spent decades training nurses in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has died at the age of 84.

Ms Kells served in the African country for almost half a century, having arrived as a missionary nurse in 1968.

In January 2015, she was seriously injured in a gun attack at her home in Mulita in the north east of the DRC.

The shooting happened just days after she received an OBE in the New Year's Honours List for her missionary work.

Ms Kells, who was 75 at that time, was shot in the shoulder with a bullet that narrowly missed her lung.

'Tremendous courage'

She was airlifted to hospital and then flown back home to Cookstown, County Tyrone, to recuperate.

But following her recovery, she returned to DRC and continued her aid work into her early 80s.

Ms Kells died peacefully at Antrim Area Hospital on Thursday, following a short illness.

She has been described as a person of "tremendous courage" by her local church minister, the Rev Tom Greer from Molesworth Presbyterian Church.

Speaking to BBC News NI, the Cookstown clergyman said she needed to be brave because "many times dangerous situations transpired" during her missionary work.

But the Rev Greer added Ms Kells also had a "tremendous love" for the people she helped in DRC.

"She was a woman with a deep Christian faith and she was an outstanding witness to that faith," he said.

In 2016, Ms Kells told BBC News NI that her next trip to DRC would be her last, but that turned out not to be the case.

According to her minister, her last visit to the county was just last year, when she brought money and medicine to the needy.

He added that even in her early 80s, "Maud was hands on" and was willing to help out in hospitals and maternity wards if required, or to supervise building projects.

For much of her life, Ms Kells spent half of the year in the Congo and the other half in Cookstown.

Maud Kells pictured in her African home before the 2015 shooting

As a young woman, she trained as a nurse in Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital.

She first travelled to the African country in 1968.

Throughout her time there she was involved in the training of Congolese nurses in five hospitals and 30 health centres.

She was also involved in the supervision of school and hospital construction projects, as well as participating in bible school teaching and church services.

Most recently, she was working as a missionary for the Worldwide Evangelisation for Christ (WEC) International mission agency.

During her 2015 mission bandits came to her house and she recalled being confronted by two masked men wearing camouflage clothing, pointing a gun at her.

Four months after she survived the shooting in Mulita, she went to Buckingham Palace where Prince William presented with her with her OBE honour.

The award was for "services to people in the Democratic Republic of Congo".

Ms Kells is survived by two sisters.

Her funeral is due to take place in Molesworth Presbyterian Church in Cookstown on Sunday.
Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) is getting strong pushback from within his conference as he tries to keep military aid for Israel and aid for Ukraine tied together.

McConnell urged fellow Republican senators at a lunch meeting Wednesday to keep the money for Israel and Ukraine in the same spending package but ran into stiff opposition from Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) and other conservatives.

Mitch made a plea to keep it all together. Nobody else spoke up in favor of that position. A lot of folks said Israel unites us, and the Ukraine issue divides us; lets move Israel money on its own, said one Republican senator who attended the lunch.

The GOP senator said Vance and Sens. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) spoke in favor of moving an assistance package for Israel separately from military aid for Ukraine.

Vance circulated a policy memo to Senate colleagues Monday arguing money for Israel and Ukraine should be handled separately. He drafted it in response to President Bidens request to Congress for a $105 billion foreign aid package.

GOP senators battled over the issue behind closed doors Wednesday.

I made the argument Ive been making publicly that for both political and policy reasons we should not allow Israel to be held hostage in support of Ukraine. Theyre fundamentally different issues. We should debate them separately, we should decide on them separately, Vance said after the lunch.

My main takeaway from the lunch is there is a lot of disagreement within the conference about advancing this thing as a four-bucket package as presented by the Biden administration, he said. I think the way the president has approached this is fundamentally dead on arrival in Congress.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) has also pressed his GOP colleagues to split money for Israel off from assistance for Ukraine.

We should pass the support for Israel first, he said, arguing that funding for Ukraine and other elements of Bidens spending request is controversial and is going to have a hard time in the House.

We just delude ourselves thinking we can pass something here in the Senate that is going to fly through the House. It wont. Lets get whatever Israel needs to Israel and then worry about the other things, he said.

Johnson and other conservatives argue that a large emergency funding package that includes tens of billions of dollars for Ukraine will have a tough time passing the House, which finally elected a new Speaker on Wednesday after three weeks of messy infighting.

Republicans in both chambers insist new money for Ukraine should be paired with immigration policy changes to slow the flow of migrants across the U.S.-Mexico border, a contentious issue that threatens to delay action.

Biden has asked Congress to provide $61 billion in new funding for military and economic assistance to Ukraine, $14 billion in military aid to Ukraine, $9 billion in humanitarian assistance to Israel, Gaza and Ukraine and $7.4 billion in security aid to Taiwan and other Indo-Pacific allies.

The schism among Senate Republicans over how to handle Bidens request signals a bumpy road ahead in Congress. Proponents of funding the war in Ukraine worry another assistance package wont even get a House vote if its not tied to money for Israel.

McConnell has argued publicly that the Israeli and Ukraine conflicts are part of a larger global threat to U.S. interests and must be dealt with simultaneously.

We have big power competition from China and Russia, and we still have terrorism problems, as the Israelis have certainly experienced in a brutal way.  So I think that requires a worldwide approach rather than trying to take parts of it out. Its all connected, McConnell told CBSs Face the Nation on Sunday.

He reiterated his preference for keeping Israel and Ukraine money in the same package at a press conference in the Capitol on Tuesday.

I do think it needs to be comprehensive, I think it needs to deal with all of these because theyre all interrelated. What we have now is an axis of evil: China, Russia and Iran, he said.

He argued that the United States, which he called the most important democracy in the world, needs to confront threats to its global leadership posed by this axis.

McConnell has allies within the conference who support his approach, notably Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine).

I think its far preferable to keep the package together, she said. That doesnt mean that there shouldnt be changes and that we shouldnt look at all elements of the package.

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), a leading defense hawk, said Democrats wont agree to split up the Israel and Ukraine money.

I dont think [Senate Majority Leader Chuck] Schumer [D-N.Y.] is going to do that, and I think we got national security issues that are all connected. Id like to do it all at once, he said.

McConnells top deputy  Senate Republican Whip John Thune (S.D.)  didnt take a position at Wednesdays meeting on moving the money for Israel separately, according to senators who attended it.

Were still having conversations about that. I think we have to figure out where the conference is, he said.

A Republican senator closely allied with McConnell told The Hill the GOP faction that wants to split off the Israel money doesnt have enough strength to prevail.

They dont have enough to get it done, the senator argued, noting the emergency funding package has already had considerable work put into it.

But Vance says that his view has strong support within the Senate GOP conference.

My hope is we have a more fulsome discussion next week. A lot of my colleagues who are pro-Ukraine funding are actually supportive of separating it because they dont like using Israel as effectively a hostage bargaining token, he said. I actually think that we probably have a majority of my colleagues that would like to separate the packages.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
PETOSKEY  McLaren Northern Michigan has named its next President and Chief Executive Officer, Gar Atchison.

McLaren Health Care and the McLaren Northern Michigan Board of Trustees named Atchison after a national search to find the next leader of the Petoskey-based healthcare system.

The search was conducted in coordination with McLaren Health Care, McLaren Northern Michigan executive leadership, medical staff members, and the McLaren Northern Michigan Board of Trustees.

Expected to start in late November, Atchison will pick up the role from Chad Grant, is acting as interim President of McLaren Northern Michigan. Grant is McLaren Health Care's Chief Operating Officer.

A look at the entrance to the McLaren Northern Michigan Offield Family Pavilion. McLaren Northern Michigan named Gar Atchison as the group's next president and CEO.

Through its broad range of services, both those provided at the hospital and through its network of outpatient facilities, and its ability to create access to care throughout the region, McLaren Northern Michigan is a vital asset to the northern Michigan community, Grant said in a press release. With his impressive leadership experience and history in northern Michigan, Gar and the McLaren Northern Michigan team are well positioned to serve the many needs of the region now and for years to come.

Atchison previously worked as the financial operations manager at Northern Michigan Hospital  what the organization he now leads was known as prior to it joining McLaren Health Care.

This is a full-circle moment for me, and Im thrilled to be coming home, Atchison said in the release. I have deep roots in Petoskey, and, with family and loved ones throughout northern Michigan, I am personally invested in the care and wellbeing of these communities. I am excited to be joining this excellent team of doctors and staff members routinely recognized for its quality and safety.

Most recently, he has served as the regional president and CEO of the UP Health System. He's bringing more than 30 years of health care leadership experience to the role, along with a familiarity of the communities and needs of northern Michigan.

After leaving Northern Michigan Hospital, he worked as the administrator of a Petoskey-based orthopedic practice before holding different positions  including Vice President of Business Development, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Executive Officer  at the Frye Medical Center, a 355-bed comprehensive provider based in Hickory, North Carolina.

In meeting with Gar, it was clearly evident that he is a dynamic and confident leader with a deep understanding and warmth for the region, Dennis Hesselink, McLaren Northern Michigan Board of Trustees Board Chair, said in the release. With his experience and a career filled with accomplishments, we are confident Gars leadership will guide McLaren Northern Michigan toward continued growth and success.

Atchison earned a degree in financial management from the University of North Dakota. He later earned a Master of Business Administration from Lake Superior State University. He's also a fellow with the American College of Medical Practice Executives and a member of the Michigan Health and Hospital Association Board of Trustees.

 Contact reporter Karly Graham at kgraham@petoskeynews.com. Follow her on Twitter at @KarlyGrahamJRN.

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Gar Atchison named McLaren Northern Michigan's next CEO
The Senate has approved a measure that would ease some veterans' access to guns, brushing aside objections from most Democrats and the Department of Veterans Affairs that doing so could hinder suicide prevention efforts.

The legislation would prohibit the VA from reporting veterans who are found incapable of managing their own finances to the FBI's national background check database without first getting a judge's consent. The Senate passed the measure by Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., in a 53-45 vote Wednesday afternoon.

The VA reports the names of veterans who are deemed mentally incompetent to a national criminal background check database used during the purchase of firearms, but the practice has drawn criticism from gun rights advocates in Congress. The vote came hours before at least 18 people were killed in a mass shooting in Maine, where authorities have identified an Army reservist as a person of interest.

Read Next: Here's How New House Speaker Mike Johnson Voted on Veteran and Military Issues

The Senate legislation was passed as an amendment to the annual VA spending bill, which must still be hashed out by both chambers of Congress before being passed into law.

Since 1998, under its interpretation of the gun control legislation known as the Brady Law, the VA has reported the names of veterans appointed fiduciaries to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System, or NICS, which is the system used to determine whether someone is legally prohibited from buying a gun.

The VA will appoint a fiduciary to manage a veteran's financial affairs after determining a beneficiary is mentally incompetent under VA regulations. About 109,000 veterans or spouses were assigned those financial managers as of July, VA officials said at the time.

Upon Republicans retaking control of the House at the beginning of the year, House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Mike Bost, R-Ill., said one of his top priorities was to pass a bill to bar the VA from reporting someone to NICS solely on the basis that they were appointed a fiduciary -- without a judge's order saying the veteran is a danger to themselves and others.

The VA, though, has firmly opposed the bill, pointing to statistics that show a correlation between suicidal ideation and financial issues, and that show suicide attempts involving firearms are more lethal than other methods.

The program at issue "protects some of our most vulnerable veterans, and we do believe that taking firearms away -- not us, but the process -- does protect our veterans," Ron Burke, the VA's deputy under secretary for policy and oversight, testified at a House hearing earlier this year. "Preventing veterans suicide is the No. 1 clinical focus for VA, and we believe that the process works."

The proposal was included in the House-passed VA spending bill for fiscal 2024. But it was originally seen as unlikely to pass the Democratic-controlled Senate.

But after Kennedy stalled passage of the Senate's version of the VA spending bill over demands for a vote on the gun rights bill, Democratic leadership agreed to hold a vote on the proposal as an amendment to the spending measure.

The amendment was approved with support from all Republican senators and five Democratic or Democrat-aligned senators, including Senate Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman Jon Tester, D-Mont.

"It is not right that a D.C. bureaucrat at VA could take away a veteran's legal right to their firearms simply because they needed assistance managing their finances," Tester said on the Senate floor Wednesday.

Tester is in a tough reelection battle where his Republican opponents have sought to tie him to Democratic-supported, gun control measures. All of the other Democrats or independents who typically vote with Democrats who supported the amendment are also up for reelection in 2024: Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.; Jacky Rosen, D-Nev.; Kyrsten Sinema, I-Ariz.; and Angus King, I-Maine.

Bost hailed the Senate vote as a victory for his priorities.

"Until today, a veteran who needs help managing their finances couldn't go deer hunting with their son because VA would automatically send their name to the FBI's NICS list, taking away their Second Amendment right without due process," Bost said in a statement. "That is wrong, and it's taken over 30 years for Congress to fix it."

Being included in both the Senate's and House's version of the VA spending bill increases the likelihood that it will become law. But Democratic opponents of the gun measure have vowed to fight to remove it during House-Senate negotiations on the final spending bill.

"We're not talking about people who just need some assistance with their financial affairs," Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said on the Senate floor. "One-third of the veterans we're talking about in this category are diagnosed schizophrenics. And this amendment allows for every single one of them to have their gun rights restored.

"People who are frankly more prone to suicide than the general population are now going to be able to get their hands on a weapon to kill themselves or others if we pass this," he said.

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on X @reporterkheel.

Related: VA Spars with Republicans over Gun Rights for Veterans Deemed Mentally Incompetent
Zaporizhzhia city authorities allegedly commissioned the reconstruction of buildings damaged in Russian attacks at overblown prices, and after non-transparent tenders, an investigation by Hromadske published on Oct. 26 said.

Over 500 houses were damaged in Russian strikes on the city, and eight high-rise buildings suffered especially severe damage. The city authorities reportedly allocated Hr 350 million ($10 million) for the reconstruction work in 2023, while the state added an additional 815 million (over $20 million).

As a result, one year's budget for the city's restoration amounted to over Hr 1 billion (around $30 million), Hromadske said.

The news outlet drew attention to a number of violations and suspicious steps in the reconstruction process. Some companies won their contracts without a proper tender, building materials were procured at a higher-than-market value, and some of the firms had connections to former local officials or other politicians, Hromadske said.

For example, the restoration of one building on Sobornyi Avenue in the city's center reportedly cost around Hr 330 million (over $9 million). The journalists said that the cost of restoring a damaged flat in the building  $300,000  turned out to be much higher than the average price of buying a new one.

Mykola Bielyi, the city's local deputy quoted by Hromadske, noted that it is possible to buy "over 150 apartments on Zaporizhzhia's secondary market" for $4 million. That is less than half of the sum spent on the one building on Sobornyi Avenue, where, as Bielyi said, only 24 apartments were damaged.

Zaporizhzhia Acting Mayor Anatolii Kurtiev told Hromadske that it is misleading to count the prices by a single apartment: "I am telling you again, this is a complete housing complex... Renovating a building is generally more costly than a new building."

The city of Zaporizhzhia, lying only around 40 kilometers north of the front line, often suffers destructive and deadly attacks by Russian forces.

Read also: Transparency International: Suspicious companies winning contracts to reconstruct Irpin

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
One of the Medicare health plans in Stanislaus County will expire at the end of this year. Thousands of participants are being told they will lose coverage in 2024 if they dont choose another plan.

Officials with HICAP (the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) said the Care More plan owned by Anthem will discontinue regular coverage in this county Dec. 31.

Maria Profeta, HICAP manager in Modesto, said Anthem Care More will have a local plan only for end-stage renal disease patients.

Profeta said members of Care More began receiving letters from Anthem last week, telling them to take action or they wont have Medicare Advantage coverage next year for hospital costs, medical services and prescription drugs.

The basic Medicare program, for people 65 and older, covers 80% of medical bills. Almost half of Medicare beneficiaries in California sign up for a federally subsidized Medicare Advantage plan to cover hospitalization, physician services, surgery and prescription medications.

Almost 45,000 are enrolled in Medicare Advantage HMO plans in this county, according to the California Department of Health Care Services.

Anthem Care More participants need to make sure the new plan they choose covers their medications, Profeta stressed.

The federal Medicare program has an enrollment period from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 for making changes to coverage. Profeta said Care More members have until Dec. 31 to make the change, but we dont recommend they wait that long.

Affected residents should keep the notice letter from Anthem. It can serve as a guarantee issue if they want to start the new coverage earlier than Jan. 1, she said. Anthem is legally obligated to give notice 60 days before discontinuing coverage, so affected seniors should receive a letter by Nov. 1.

The Modesto HICAP office, at 3500 Coffee Road, provides unbiased counseling to help people choose a Medicare plan and navigate the national health program. Counselors can help people determine if a health plan covers their prescription drugs.

HICAP has been holding its annual forums this month to inform seniors about changes to the Medicare program for 2024.

The next forum starts at 1 p.m. Monday (Oct. 30) at the Turlock Senior Center, 1191 Cahill Ave.

There are 10 Medicare Advantage plans available in Stanislaus County, ranging in cost from a zero monthly premium to $131 per month.

The county has a new plan starting coverage in 2024, called CCA Health California. The CCA plan has no monthly premium and zero co-payments for visits to physicians or specialists.

One change for 2024 is an increase in the Medicare program Part B premium to $174.70 per month, up from $164.90. The Part B premium for physician services is deducted from the Social Security checks of Medicare recipients.

Profeta said another change regards eligibility for Medicare-Medical dual enrollment for low-income seniors, which serves to lower costs for those who qualify. Government agencies, effective Jan. 1, will no longer consider the asset limit of $2,000 to $3,000 for those applying for Medicare and Medi-Cal dual enrollment.

More information about Medicare health plans in Stanislaus County can be found at www.medicare.gov. For advice for enrolling in a Medicare health plan in this county, call HICAP at (209) 558-4540.
Happy Thursday! Patrons at a Noodles & Company in Beloit, Wisconsin, were minding their own business this week when a six-point buck charged into the restaurant and made a beeline for the kitchen, sending customers fleeing. Health inspectors are getting craftier and craftier these days.

Quick Hits: Todays Top Stories

House GOP: We Like (M)Ike!

U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries hands the gavel to newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson after the House of Representatives held an election in the U.S. Capitol on October 25, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

If youve never heard of the 56th Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, dont worryyoure not alone. Republican Sen. Susan Collins revealed yesterday that she needed to Google the Louisiana representative to figure out who he was. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said hes yet to meet the man now second in line to the presidency, and neither has Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Johnsons election marked the end of three speakerless weeks, and House Republicans were eager to move beyond the shadow of dysfunction put on full display by repeated failures to replace defenestrated former Speaker Kevin McCarthy . But while the House GOP may have given themselves a reprieve from the late-night candidate forums and vote whipping for now, Speaker Johnson faces challenging weeks ahead as he tries to both fund the government and hold together a slim majority that remains divided and at the mercy of its hardline members.

After winning the partys nomination late Tuesday night, Johnson and his supporters tried to project a message of unity and competence. This conference that you seethis House Republican majorityis united, Johnson said during a press conference on Tuesday. This group here is ready to govern, and were going to govern well. The following day, the House voted 220-209 to elect Johnson speaker, with every Republican present voting for the Louisianian and every Democrat voting against him. GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik delivered the nominating speech for Johnson, describing him as a friend to all and an enemy to none.

If you havent been closely following the whirlwind of votes that preceded Johnson securing the gavel, we dont blame youheres a quick recap. Following McCarthys ouster more than two weeks ago, GOP Majority Leader Steve Scalise narrowly beat out House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan for the conferences nomination, but it quickly became clear that Scalise lacked sufficient support to win on the House floor, prompting him to withdraw his bid before the full body even voted. Jordan then became the new nominee, but the Ohioanknown more for his reputation as a caustic firebrand than as a unifying leader or productive legislatoralso failed to gain the support of the whole conference after a hamfisted pressure campaign that alienated a number of members. Jordan lost three votes on the House floor last week by increasingly large margins (20 Republicans opposed him on the first vote, 22 on the second, and 25 on the third). This past Tuesday, Rep. Tom Emmer of Minnesota became the partys third speaker-designate, winning a narrow victory over Johnson in a conference vote. But Emmers candidacy lasted only four short hours before he ended his bid without a floor votethanks in part to opposition from former President Donald Trump. This fever dream of failure left the GOP conference exhausted and paved the way for Johnsons nomination late Tuesday night and his successful floor vote yesterday.

So, who exactly is the new speaker? Johnson has represented Louisianas fourth congressional district since 2017, and he served in the state House for two years before that. Prior to running for public office, Johnson was a lawyer who, in addition to maintaining his own private practice, worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal advocacy group. In that role, Johnson was tapped by Louisianas attorney generals office to defend the states ban on same-sex marriage as well as its anti-abortion laws. Johnsons work on religious freedom and social issues raised his profile among evangelicals and social conservatives, providing a seamless transition into conservative politics. Some people are called to pastoral ministry, he said in 2016 during his first congressional campaign. I was called to legal ministry, and Ive been out on the front lines of the culture war defending religious freedom, the sanctity of human life, and biblical values, including the defense of traditional marriage, and other ideals like these when theyve been under assault.

Once in Congress, Johnson developed a reputation as a staunchthough more reservedsocial conservative, and saw Jordan as a mentor. He co-sponsored a bill to create a 20-week abortion ban, and opposed federal protections for same-sex marriage. He chaired the Republican Study Committee, a Republican caucus known for producing conservative policy proposals, and consistently supported Trump, serving as a member of his defense team during Trumps first impeachment trial. In 2021, Republicans elected Johnson as vice chairman of the conferencea largely messaging positionmaking him the fifth-ranking Republican in the House.

Still, Johnson has spent less time in the House than any previous speaker in the last 140 years. He hasnt chaired a full committee, though he chairs the House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government. He also hasnt demonstrated the fundraising chops that past speakers have used to help boost their partys chances of securing and keeping a majoritythe Congressional Leadership Fund, a super PAC aligned with former Speaker McCarthy, has raised $80 million this election cycle. Johnson has only raised $600,000.

But the Louisianians less-senior standing and relative anonymity in the conference proved an asset in securing support from both hardline conservatives and more moderate members. Politics is like the fight business, said Rep. Tom Cole of Oklahoma when explaining Johnsons success. The longer youre in it, the more you get beat up. Johnson also hasnt ruffled many feathers in the conference, thanks to his short tenure and his reputation for being a nice guy. Hes a goober, but I dig that about him, said Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee, one of the eight Republicans who voted to oust McCarthy.

Anonymity or just not having been around long enough to create any rivalries or conflicts with people is certainly part of the equation of what worked out for him, Brendan Buck, former adviser to House Speakers John Boehner and Paul Ryan, told TMD. But it may just simply be that hes a really nice guy, and hes good at getting along with people.

People whove worked with Johnson have confirmed his cordiality. He is a nice guy and has a good heart, Michael Herson, a Republican defense lobbyist who has worked with Johnson in his capacity as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, told The Dispatch. He believes the Republican party should be a party of principles, policies, and ideas. Hes here to govern and make Americans lives better. Hes the perfect person to bridge the differences in the Republican conference.

Congeniality aside, Johnson did not ascend to the role without baggage. He played a significant role in Republican efforts to discredit and overturn the results of the 2020 electiona point House Democrats repeatedly raised on the floor on Wednesday. Johnson led the charge in 2020 to rally Republican lawmakers to sign on to an amicus brief he drafted for a Supreme Court case, brought by Republican attorneys general, to overturn the election results in Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin. (The Supreme Court ultimately refused to hear the case.) Johnson also lent credence to unfounded theories about hacked voting machines pushed by Trump and his legal team. The allegations about these voting machines, some of them being rigged with this software by Dominion, look, theres a lot of merit to that, Johnson said in a November 2020 interview. And when the president says the election is rigged, thats what hes talking aboutthat the fix was in.

Johnson voted against certifying the election results on January 6, 2021. He focused less on fraud conspiracy theories to justify his skepticism, instead developing what he described as a third option for Republicans deciding between calling the election legitimate and fully embracing Trumps conspiracies as their justification to block the certification. Johnson argued that state-level pandemic changes to election procedures made the slate of electors unconstitutional, even drafting a memo with talking points for his colleagues.

Such staunch denial of the 2020 election results led some Republicans to oppose Jim Jordans speakership bid just last weekthough many are singing a different tune now. Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado previously opposed both Scalise and Jordans speaker bids over their waffling on whether or not the 2020 election was stolen, but didnt apply the same scrutiny to Johnson. We disagree on the certification of the election, but weve never had a harsh word, Buck told CNN on Tuesday night. I think people make mistakes and still could be really good speakers. When asked whether Johnson thinks President Biden won the 2020 election, Buck said yesterday, I have not gotten that promise from Mike. I hope he comes around to that point.

Johnsons coming around might take a bitwhen a reporter asked him on Tuesday about his efforts to overturn the 2020 election, Johnson ignored the question as the rest of his colleagues loudly booed. Meanwhile, hardline Republicans have hailed Johnson as one of their own. If you dont think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement and where the power in the Republican Party truly lies, then youre not paying attention, Rep. Matt Gaetz said yesterday. Trump also praised Johnsons selection. He will be a great speaker of the House, and we were very happy to have helped, the former president said outside the courtroom for his civil fraud trial in New York. Hes going to make us all proud.

But now that he has the gavel, Johnson has to tackle what sank McCarthys speakership: working with Democrats to fund the government. The continuing resolution currently keeping the government open expires on November 17, but there are signs the hardliners who opposed McCarthy on spending are willing to give Johnson more leeway, at least for now. Its a different situation now, there was a trust factor with leadership last time, Rep. Scott Perry, head of the House Freedom Caucus, told CNN. I think youre going to see a different viewpoint now. Gaetz also signaled hed tolerate another stopgap funding measure.

He comes in with more goodwill, credibility, and breathing room than we might have guessed three weeks ago simply by virtue of how the process played out, Liam Donovan, a lobbyist and former Republican senate campaign operative, told TMD. That may be good enough to get him through the mid-November deadline unscathed. But eventually, there will be a need to do long-term funding. (Thats not to mention aid to Ukraine and IsraelJohnson pushed back on additional aid to Ukraine before he was elected speaker).

When Johnson inevitably does have to make a deal with Democrats, rebels in the Republican conference might not be so supportive of their colleague. Every speaker ultimately ends up in the exact same spot because there are certain realities that come along with governing, and it is the job of the speaker to see those through, Brendan Buck told TMD. It doesnt matter how pure your conservative credentials are. You are going to have to get your hands dirty, do bipartisan deals, compromise, and very quickly, you will be seen as part of the same system that they all rebelled against in the first place. It is inevitable. Johnson suggested yesterday he might give more power to House Freedom Caucus types, saying, This speakers office is going to be known for decentralizing the power here.

But McCarthy also decentralized power in the conference, and it was insufficient to satisfy the hardliners. Whatever becomes law will happen with significant Democratic support, by definition, Donovan said. Other than changing who sits in the big chair, its not clear why the problem causers will look more kindly when its coming from a bona fide conservative.

Worth Your Time

Brendan Buck, a former aide to House Speakers John Boehner and Paul Ryan, has plenty of thoughts on someone as relatively new to the House as Mike Johnson ascending to the speakership. Experience, it seems, is no longer an attractive attribute for a Republican speaker, he wrote in Politico. It was perhaps Mike Johnsons short tenure in the House that allowed him to win the gavel. But now he faces a terrifyingly steep learning curve and almost no margin for error. Each speaker is different, and Johnson will come to develop his own way of running the House. In the short term, however, a neophyte speaker will naturally create a leadership void simply by nature of being new to the job. That might mean Steve Scalise, a fellow Louisianan who was just passed over for the top job, becomes the most powerful majority leader in decadesperhaps since Tom DeLay. While they may not say it this way, Republicans seem intent on wanting a weak speaker, and they are likely to get their wish, at least in the short term. Members have increasingly bought into the fallacy that it is the heavy hand of past speakers to blame for a failure to deliver spending cuts or other priorities, rather than a result of the realities of divided government. Members want both a hands-off speaker and big legislative progress. This is where Scalise can assert himself and shape the success of the Johnson speakership, much like DeLay once did to corral the House GOP. Indeed, maybe a weak speaker and a strong majority leader is what the conference actually needs.

Presented Without Comment

The Hill: China Calls U.S. Disruptor of Peace After Reported Beijing Military Buildup

Also Presented Without Comment

Axios: Support for Political Violence Jumps in U.S., Survey Says

Toeing the Company Line

In the newsletters: The Dispatch Politics crew examined the stakes of South Carolinas GOP primary, Scott explained (  ) why its hard to weaponize globalization, Haley detailed the challenges House Speaker Mike Johnson will face in the next few weeks, and Nick argued (  ) Johnsons election represents a MAGA takeover of the house.

On the podcasts: Sarah and David French answer listener questions on Advisory Opinions , while Chris and David Drucker engage in some rank punditry on The Remnant in Jonahs absence.

On the site: Charlotte looks at whether recent attacks on U.S. troops in the Middle East amid fighting in Israel portend a broader regional war, and Kevin argues that anti-Zionism is really just antisemitism writ large.

Let Us Know

Do you think Speaker Johnsons relative anonymity will help or hurt him as he seeks to forge consensus in the House?

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Mayor of Franklin is a big job.

It's Somerset County's most populous community with nearly 70,000 residents, and it's one of the largest, bordering both South Bound Brook and Princeton.

The township has its concentrated population area on the New Brunswick border, bucolic vistas and villages along the Millstone River and Delaware & Raritan Canal and sprawling residential communities in addition to office parks, retail centers and warehouses.

It's also the county's most ethnically and economically diverse community.

The mayor is one of the common threads that keeps the community tied together. It's a daunting task when you have to address the concerns both of the seniors in the Somerset Run community and the families in the Hamilton Street corridor.

Two political veterans are battling to take the helm of this township. Democratic Mayor Phil Kramer is being challenged by former Mayor Brian Levine, a Republican, who also served as a Somerset County freeholder.

Phil Kramer (D)

Franklin Mayor Phil Kramer

Age: 68

Years residing in town: 25

Previous government service (boards and elected office): Mayor 2016-present, 3rd Ward councilman 2010-2015, Ethics Board, Zoning Board, Advisory Board of Health, NJLM Legislative Committee, Somerset County COVID Task Force.

Why are you running for mayor?

In the almost eight years that I have served as mayor, I have compiled a record of accomplishment that not only address the issues most important to our residents but have also made long lasting changes that will improve the lives of Franklin residents for decades to come!

In regard to municipal property taxes, the amount paid by the average homeowner is actually lower than when I first took office as mayor. This accomplishes one of my key goals which is to keep Franklin as affordable as possible, while also maintaining the quality level of services that our residents expect. We have increased transparency by televising and streaming more public meetings. We created a Northern branch of the library and built a Southern branch as well, which resulted in significant savings over the previous arrangement and makes it more convenient for residents to take advantage of the many services the library has to offer. We continue to preserve open space, including over 500-plus acres in just the last six years, which also prevents more overdevelopment. We worked with community leaders on an energy aggregation referendum, which ultimately passed and will save ratepayers significant dollars. We successfully led Franklin and the region through the COVID emergency providing testing, PPE, and local vaccination clinics all while keeping the public regularly informed. Of course we also built the Youth Center which is now open and will continue to serve the community well into the future. These are just some of the accomplishments we have achieved but the best is yet to come!

I believe that while elections are about the future, voters also look at a candidates record when analyzing whether or not that person is the right choice to lead them into that future. Im proud of my record of accomplishment, and Im excited to continue to build upon that record if voters so choose to honor me with another four-year term as their mayor.

Why should people vote for you instead of your opponent?

It is easy for candidates to talk and promise, but for elected officials, all the talk in the world cannot hide the fact of what you have accomplished. I believe that on all the points that matter most to our residents  affordability, safety, environmental protection, controlling overdevelopment, providing quality public services, the list goes on and on  I can look voters straight in the eye and ask them to judge my service to them as mayor based on that record. I will proudly compare that record with that of my opponent who also happens to be my predecessor. The municipal portion of the property tax bill is lower for the average home, public safety is better, more open space has been acquired, services have improved and expanded, again, the list goes on. What you have done is a great indicator of what you will do. Based on that, I believe voters have enough facts to judge whether I deserve another four years as their mayor, and it is based on that record that I ask them to do so.

Election 2023: Voting by mail has begun for the Nov. 7 election in NJ. What you need to know

After talking to residents, what is their biggest concern, other than warehouses?

Taxes. My record speaks for itself. In the eight municipal budgets I've passed as mayor, the amount of money acquired by taxes have only increased by 4.3%. Thats an average of about .5% per year. Because assessments for commercial properties have grown faster than residential properties, the local municipal tax has decreased for the average home by 3.3% in that time.

What are the three biggest challenges facing your town and what is the best approach to solving them?

Taxes, warehouses and traffic. In terms of taxes, as Ive stated before, the amount of money acquired by taxes have only increased by 4.3%. Thats an average of about .5% per year. Id gladly compare that to other towns in the region. Weve done this by spending responsibly and continuing to streamline our operations so that they run in the most cost-efficient way possible. In terms of development and traffic, in many ways those are tied together. We will continue to acquire more open space, preventing those properties from being built on, and we will also continue to utilize the planning process so that the growth that does occur is done in a way that results in the least amount of negative side effects as possible.

Do you have any special projects you would like to achieve in office?

We are working diligently on acquiring a YMCA in town. We are partnering with the school board and Zufall (a federally funded organization) to provide affordable/free access to medical care for children. Another project we are partnering with the school board is free day care, paid for by the federal government.

Has development reached a tipping point in Franklin?

As in many towns in the region, development reached a tipping point years ago; however, the law does not allow us to stop development altogether. What we can do, though, is to continue to acquire as much open space as possible so that we can reduce future development, and we can also continue to implement measures such as the recent ordinance we passed limiting warehouse development which helps balance the rights of landowners with the rights of current residents to live in a community where they are not overwhelmed with traffic, pollution, noise and all of the other effects that come with continued growth.

What should be done to maintain or lower municipal property taxes?

Weve done it. We will continue to keep the budget lean and efficient if we are reelected.

What do you believe was your best achievement as mayor?

I cant pick just one. Along with my Democratic team  open government, control of taxes, two new library branches, accessible COVID testing when it was hard to get elsewhere, a new youth center, preserved hundreds of acres of land to restrict development.

Brian Levine (R)

Franklin mayoral candidate Brian Levine

Age: 65

Years residing in town: 29

Previous government service: Councilman 1998-2003, mayor 2004-14, Somerset County commissioner 2015-2020 (director in 2019).

Volunteer activities: Somerset Community Action Program, Franklin Community Foundation, United Way, Family & Childrens Service of Central Jersey, Kateri Environmental Education Center, Jaycees, Building One New Jersey

Why are you running for mayor?

When I was mayor a few years back, the town enjoyed unprecedented prosperity. Quality of life was thriving, finances were stronger than ever, outside recognition was astounding, respect for residents was unflinching, and growth was properly controlled. Since then, Franklin has had setbacks. I want to return as mayor to lead our community to the heights the citizenry deserves.

Why should people vote for you instead of your opponent?

I will bring finances back to stellar positions (as I have in the past), I will stop the warehouse scourge descending on our town, I will halt the over-the-top truck traffic that damages our quality of life. In short, listening to our residents and being proactive are my hallmarks.

After talking to residents, what is their biggest concern, other than warehouses?

Our residents are worried about affordability. For example, when will the spending slow down so that they get a break? Also, in this crazy national political environment, they are looking for integrity and someone they can trust and who will listen.

Local issue: Here's what Franklin is doing to limit warehouse construction

What are the three biggest challenges facing your town and what is the best approach to solving them?

Taxes and spending. When I was mayor, we had one of the highest budget surpluses in the entire state, due to strong budgeting and fiscal responsibility. As a CPA with an MBA, I will again rise to the challenge, as I have done in my professional business career.

Controlled growth. We cannot allow every project, such as the warehouses, to control our lives. Also, projects (which have been proposed) such as turning the prior Kmart into residential units, will hurt our schools, roads, traffic, and quality of life. Franklin needs a mayor who is willing to say no! when the situation warrants.

Public safety. When I was mayor, we started having cameras and computers in our police cars, there was community policing, our police force grew. Safety is No. 1. When I was county commissioner, we implemented a program to start human services working with police for the benefit of towns.

Do you have any special projects you would like to achieve in office?

Reexamine our zoning so that the warehouse fiasco does not reoccur. This will entail a special look at where trucks go and when they can travel on roads. Of course, I will have listening sessions as I have in the past to learn what is on the minds, and in the hearts, of our residents.

Has development reached a tipping point in Franklin?

It absolutely has reached a tipping point. People are upset over the warehouse fiasco and loud, overbearing truck traffic. Our schools and roads cannot sustain much more unrestricted, residential growth. We need controlled growth and in the proper areas of town. When I was mayor, Franklin was the No. 5 town for growth in New Jersey, but we had no complaints, as the growth was directed, and we were extremely cognizant about how it would affect the quality of life of our residents. We can grow, but it must be the proper kind directed to the proper part of town.

What should be done to maintain or lower municipal property taxes?

It is the same as businesses and households. Control spending by careful review. As I am a CPA with an MBA, I know how to handle business and spending. Franklin cannot afford every new idea that arises; we must have consideration for the hard-working residents.

What do you believe was your best achievement as mayor?

When I was mayor, we were named the No. 5 community in which to live in the entire U.S. by Money Magazine. We had one of the highest budget surpluses in the entire state, due to strong budgeting and fiscal responsibility. The government became open and stayed open for the people. Everyone was entitled to give their input in any matter of interest. I was named Mayor of the Year for work on affordable housing and our community. No task was too big or too small for your government to show concern and to tackle. We negotiated hard for developers to pay their fair share and provide services to the public. We were No. 5 in New Jersey in growth (brought money into our coffers) yet bent over backward to be sure our residents had no quality-of-life impact. Our library opened a second branch, and a small third branch.

I founded the Franklin Youth Initiative along with the deputy mayor and a concerned councilwoman  it still thrives today. I worked to get property, funding, and follow-through on our new youth center. Our police force expanded, and our police were given cameras and computers, before most any other municipality. I slammed the door on eminent domain abuse. I fought against (and won) not allowing red light cameras in town. I would never allow additional warehouses, trucks, and overdevelopment to ruin the quality of life of our residents  a sad turnaround threatens us today. Our environmental action was stellar  a third of the entire town is permanently preserved for all to enjoy without the worry of extra development. I established a vision and direction for Franklin, and I brought us all together in bipartisan unity. I was known as The Peoples Mayor due to my strong leadership, yet empathetic touch.

Email: mdeak@mycentraljersey.com

Mike Deak is a reporter for mycentraljersey.com. To get unlimited access to his articles on Somerset and Hunterdon counties, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Franklin NJ mayor election candidate profiles
In late September, Sen. Robert Menendez, his wife, Nadine Arslanian Menendez, and three New Jersey businessmen were thrown into a legal and media firestorm when they were indicted on bribery charges of allegedly benefiting themselves and the government of Egypt. The charges, brought by the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, allege that going back as far as 2018, Menendez accepted bribes such as gold bars and even a luxury convertible  not to mention payments toward the mortgage of Nadine Menendezs home.

The Menendez case, of course, is not an isolated incident in U.S. politics: The American political scene is awash in scandal and legal turbulence. We need look no further than the House of Representatives and the recent ousting of Kevin McCarthy as the speaker of the House and the narrowly avoided government shutdown. That drama continued to play out into this past week, when Republicans in the House finally elected Rep. Mike Johnson, a hard-right member of that chamber who represents Louisiana, as speaker.

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., delivers remarks as Republican House lawmakers gather on the Capitol steps after electing Johnson to the speakership in Washington on Oct. 25, 2023

What do younger NJ voters make of these crises?

The widespread outrage about both the Menendez and McCarthy situations leave one burning question that many want to discuss: What do some of the youngest voters think about the state of politics and the recent scandals?

Lizbeth Gomez, 19, a journalism student at Montclair State University, says there's a talk to be had when it comes to those in office in our country.

A lot of things need to be changed," Gomez said. "Were depending on people who are really old and dont know how to deal with technology. How are they supposed to connect with Gen Z and millennials and cater laws toward them?

And its a sentiment thats reasonably shared among several college-age students like me, considering the current makeup of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Data from the Pew Research Center in January broke down the two by age and generation, finding that 299 of the 435 voting members of the House are over the age of 50  an approximate 69% of all voting members. The Senate has 90 of the 100 serving senators in that same age range.

Another Montclair student, 21-year-old Victoria Do Couto, says there are too many old politicians  deciding our futures. We need younger people in charge.

Union College student Sofia Rivero, 21, agrees and thinks Congress is filled with old people with old-fashioned mindsets.

More perspective: Mike Johnson is House speaker. But will GOP chaos actually help Biden win reelection?

Reaction to indictment: Bob Menendez must step down. New Jersey deserves better

Still, engaging millennials and members of Gen Z is an uphill battle

The most noticeable characteristic that wasnt mentioned, however, is that all three of these people had not read up on the Menendez indictment or the McCarthy ousting before they were interviewed.

This means we are faced with three problems:

We are challenged by ongoing incidents of corruption and other scandals involving U.S. lawmakers.

We need to more accurately represent younger U.S. citizens in our government.

We need to find ways to engage younger citizens to build their interest and participation in politics.

Though it's easy to say, enticing millennials and Gen Z to care about modern American politics is incredibly hard  being a millennial myself, I can confidently state that most of my peers have trouble finding a reason to care about a broken system that time and time again fails to take them into account and change what isnt working. Though I am inclined to agree with them, the only true way to bring about change in our government is to pay close attention to the platforms of those seeking office, and exercise our right to participate in democracy by voting and rallying for those candidates.

Getting younger generations invested in politics and electing officials is no small task, but one thing is clear: Theres no better time for a change in representation than now. If the Menendez indictment and the reckoning in Congress have told us anything, its that we have a government riddled with issues, and that younger Americans are aching for fresh energy and new vision for an inclusive representative democracy.

Bryan Jaimes is a student at Montclair State University.

Bryan Jaimes

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ college students: Poltics have to change, get younger
A Meridian pedestrian died while crossing Interstate 84 after he was hit by a vehicle Wednesday night.

A 61-year-old woman from Caldwell was driving an SUV west on I-84 in Meridian at about 7:41 p.m. when she hit a pedestrian trying to cross the roadway just west of exit 44, the Idaho State Police said in a news release. He was then struck by multiple vehicles and pronounced dead an hour later, according to the Ada County Coroners Office.

The Coroners Office identified the victim as Randell Crocker, 61, of Meridian. The coroner listed multiple blunt force injuries as the cause of Crockers death, while the manner of death was still pending.

Traffic was blocked for 5 hours to allow emergency responders to assist those involved and clear the scene, police said.

The Idaho State Police said its investigating the incident.
Thurston County deputies arrested a driver involved in a Monday crash on Meridian Road Southeast on suspicion of vehicular homicide.

The driver, a 21-year-old Olympia man, was arrested and booked into the Thurston County jail early Thursday morning after being released from a local hospital, according to a news release from the Sheriffs Office.

A passenger in the vehicle, an Olympia man in his early 20s, reportedly died in the crash. The Olympian has asked the Thurston County Coroners Office to confirm his identity and cause of death.

The jail roster shows the driver also is accused of reckless driving, second-degree malicious mischief and failure to transfer a motor vehicle title within 45 days.

The driver crashed into a fence and green utility box at about 10 p.m. as the two were headed south on the 6200 block of Meridian Road Southeast, Lt. Mike Brooks told The Olympian Tuesday.

The Sheriffs Office also released dash camera footage Thursday. The video shows a deputy finding the crashed vehicle in the middle of the roadway and speaking with the driver. The vehicle appears heavily damaged and the passenger is unresponsive.

The new release reveals more details about the incident from the perspective of law enforcement.

Deputies responded to an unknown injury, blocking collision on Rainier Road about 10 p.m. Monday. One of the responding deputies reportedly approached from the Nisqually Valley area with their lights and sirens on.

This deputy observed a vehicle doing doughnuts at the intersection of Meridian Road and Mullen Road, according to the release. The driver of the vehicle allegedly fled southbound on Meridian Road as the deputy approached.

The Sheriff Office alleges the driver sped away at speeds over 90 miles per hour in a 40 mile per hour zone. The deputy reportedly sped up to try and identify the car but did not pursue.

The release says the deputy found the vehicle crashed in the middle of the road after rounding a corner near 62nd Avenue Southeast.

The deputy contacted the driver, who was belted in the car, and spoke with him before he was transported to a local hospital for treatment, per the release.
As investigators continue to search for the suspect in the Maine mass shooting, Channel 2 Action News spoke exclusively to a local survivor of a mass shooting.

Nell Jones survived the 1999 Piedmont Center shooting that left nine people dead and several more injured.

Channel 2s Audrey Washington was in Buckhead Thursday, where that survivor said she still deals with PTSD to this day.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Jones said she will never forget what happened to her 24 years ago. She said she can still remember hearing gunshots and playing dead in order to survive.

In July 1999, a 44-year-old man walked inside a Buckhead office building and killed nine people before turning the gun on himself.

Jones was inside that building and came face-to-face with the killer.

TRENDING STORIES:

When the gun is pointed at you, all you think about is, What do I have to do to survive? Jones said.

Jones said she pretended to be dead in order to survive.

My head was no more than ten feet from his head. We were very close, Jones said. The bullet went right past my forehead.

Jones is now reliving those difficult memories again after a man shot and killed more than a dozen people in Maine Wednesday.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]

In May, we told you about the moment a shooter opened fire inside the Northside Medical Center in Midtown. Five people were shot and one was killed.

Several survived without injuries, including 102-year-old Clara Bridges.

I said, In the name of God, I cant die. I cannot leave my children, Bridges told Washington

Jones said its important for survivors to properly deal with the unimaginable trauma.

Psychological counseling is very, very important, Jones sad.

Jones said therapy is still helping her process what she went through all these years later.
A video viewed millions of times on TikTok purportedly shows Arab countries sending helicopters toward the Gaza Strip, which Israel has pummeled with air strikes following a deadly attack by Hamas. But the clip was filmed before the conflict and shows choppers in Veracruz, Mexico flying with Mexican -- not Palestinian -- flags.

"Finally Arab countries Start moving towards Gaza to help," says text over an October 21, 2023 TikTok video, which received 6 million views.

Screenshot from TikTok taken October 24, 2023

Similar posts spread across TikTok and other platforms, such as YouTube, as the United Nations warned that aid is desperately needed in the besieged Gaza Strip, the impoverished territory governed by Hamas.

Israel has cut off normal supply corridors for water, food and fuel to Gaza while bombarding it with air strikes in response to Hamas's bloody October 7 assault.

The shock attack, the worst in Israeli history, saw throngs of Hamas militants rush into Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and taking more than 200 hostages, according to official tallies.

According to Gaza's Hamas-led health ministry, Israel's bombing has killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians.

The video circulating online does not show aid from Arab nations on the way, despite the posts' claims.

AFP could not determine the original source of the footage, but some comments on the post suggested it was filmed in Veracruz, Mexico. A search of TikTok and other platforms revealed numerous other videos and photos that appear to show the same flag-bearing helicopters (archived here, here, here, here, here, here and here).

Those posts describe the three helicopters as being part of an aerial parade in Veracruz -- thousands of miles from Gaza -- during festivities held on October 4, days before the Hamas attack that triggered the war with Israel.

The celebration marked the 202nd anniversary of the Mexican navy's creation (archived here, here and here).

Other photos and footage of the choppers appear in coverage of the event (archived here, here and here), as well as in a live stream from the Veracruz government and a Facebook post the Mexican Navy Secretary shared after the celebration (archived here and here).

Google Maps Street View imagery from a street along the port, Comodoro Manuel Azueta, shows matching buildings, roads, lamp posts, and other structures (archived here and here).

Screenshots from TikTok taken October 24, 2023, with elements outlined by AFP

Screenshots from Google Maps Street View taken October 24, 2023, with elements outlined by AFP

Screenshots from TikTok taken October 24, 2023, with elements outlined by AFP

Screenshots from Google Maps Street View taken October 24, 2023, with elements outlined by AFP

Luis Antonio Casas, from the General Directorate of Institutional Information for Government of Veracruz, told AFP the video is indeed from the October 4 celebration.

"The information that that video says (about the conflict in Israel) is false," Casas said in an October 26 WhatsApp message. "It is an aerial demonstration on the occasion of Navy Day."

The flag hanging from the first helicopter is the flag of Mexico. The other flags appear to carry a symbol representing the country's navy and an emblem for the 202nd anniversary of the force's creation.

The Palestinian flag features similar colors but does not appear in the footage.

AFP reached out to the Mexican navy for comment, but no response was forthcoming.

AFP has debunked other misinformation about the Israel-Hamas conflict here.
When Vanessa Alonso isnt studying to be an aesthetician, shes taking care of her seven kids. And that involves loads of cooking.

Through the Camillus Houses CHEF Challenge, about once a month Alonso takes a virtual cooking class offered by established Miami chefs who volunteer their time and teach the class out of FIUs Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.

The last one we did  oh, my God  it was delicious, Alonso, 32, said, describing an Asian-inspired chicken dish. They are so cool. You get healthy cooked meals in an hour.

Alonso grew up in Miami and now lives in Homestead at Verde Gardens, Camillus Houses permanent supportive housing for families with small children who have no homes or or are at risk of homelessness. Alonso, her kids and her husband live in a four-bedroom home provided by the program, which also offers free social worker and counselor services for the families.

The CHEF (Cooking Healthy Easy Foods) Challenge includes Miami celebrity chefs Norman Van Aken and Michelle Bernstein. The chefs, well known for their high-end restaurants, are challenged with cooking tasty yet affordable meals that can be made in an hour.

Their budget: $20 for a family of four. For each cooking class, the families are given a meal kit with all the ingredients they need to cook that days meal.

As a chef, we choose our job because we want to make people happy, and through the program, we get to cook with people who dont eat the chefs dishes at restaurants because they cant afford it, said Amina Ly, a Senegal-born Miami chef who previously had a well-regarded French restaurant in Miami Shores called Cote Gourmet.

A plate of One Pot Coconut Curried Chicken made by mother and daughter duo Naylin Sanchez, 48, and Adrienne Rosquete, 15, during a cooking class hosted by FIU School of Hospitality on how to cook healthy meals in real time, from their home at Verde Gardens, a 145-unit townhome community for formerly homeless residents, in Homestead, Florida, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

Chef Ly is loved among CHEF Challenge participants for her tropical pineapple pork recipe, but at first glance, this recipe and others, often elicit a mixed response from the Camillus House clients.

Oh my God. Ewww. What is this? Alonso said, her typical reaction to the chefs ingredient combinations. But when you start cooking, and they tell you ... put this, put that ... the flavors just come alive!

Alonso, whose children range in age from 16 months to 14 years, finds that the cooking classes give her and her family more than just a healthy meal.

I love doing these cooking classes because it lets me spend quality time with my daughter and my husband. It helps us bond, she said. I promised my 6-year old daughter that she could participate next time.

Mother and daughter Naylin Sanchez, 48, and Adrienne Rosquete, 15, eat their meals of One Pot Coconut Curried Chicken after a cooking class hosted by FIU School of Hospitality on how to cook healthy meals in real time, from their home at Verde Gardens, a 145-unit townhome community for formerly homeless residents, in Homestead, Florida, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

For those on the brink of homelessness, or already unhoused, just putting a roof over their head isnt enough to get them back on their feet. Experts say the key is helping them build a home environment and teaching them how to live with skills and resources they may not have had before.

Homelessness is a crisis, and it is solvable. Housing with supportive services solves homelessness, said Marcia L. Fudge, secretary of Housing and Urban Development, earlier this year, when Miami-Dade was awarded a $21 million grant by the federal government to help fight homelessness in the county. Miami-Dade County had 3,355 homeless people as of August 2021.

How the CHEF Challenge started

Adrienne Rosquete, 15, photographs her finished One Pot Coconut Curried Chicken with peas, caramelized onions and peepers during a cookingclass hosted by FIU School of Hospitality on how to cook healthy meals in real time, from her home at Verde Gardens, a 145-unit townhome community for formerly homeless residents, in Homestead, Florida, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

What is today known as the CHEF Challenge started out of Stacie Archers kitchen in Palmetto Bay in 2020. Back then, it was a solo operation where Archer, a 53-year-old single mother of three, made cooking videos for her Seven Plates cooking blog, which offers freshly recreated meals for the well-planned mom. When she wasnt working on her blog or taking care of her kids, she made time to volunteer at Camillus House.

I was struggling on a tight budget and I knew it was important for my kids to have a healthy, warm meal when they got home, she said.

She could only imagine the hardships the Camillus House clients faced when they also had dependents to take care of.

I had this idea ... and I already knew how to cook on a budget, she said of her inspiration for the program.

A year later, she got Van Aken to join her, and with the support of Camillus House and Florida International University, they launched the program in 2021. Together, they were able to quickly attract other star chefs to volunteer.

Many of our chefs come from very humble beginnings themselves, she said.

Through her time at Camillus House, Archer learned that their clients needed more than just a roof. They needed a home.

Its not just a house  its a life  and youre being given another chance at it, Archer said. Now that youre settled in your house, let us teach you how to cook!

More information

Ingredients sit ready for the start of a zoom class taught in real time by the FIU School of Hospitality kitchens to residents of Verde Gardens, a 145-unit townhome community for formerly homeless residents, in Homestead, Florida, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023.

For CHEF Challenge recipes or to find our more, go to www.camillus.org/ways-to-help/chef-program/ or visit camillus.org.
A Miami man who authorities say belonged to the notorious Latin Kings gang was found guilty Wednesday of forcing women to have commercial sex and beating them if they didnt obey his orders.

Jason Wagner, aka King Ace, was convicted of sex-trafficking two women by a Miami federal jury at a trial this week. He was acquitted of two related counts, involving a third woman and kidnapping.

Wagner, 41, who has a prior state conviction for sex trafficking, faces up to life in the federal case at his sentencing on Jan. 12, 2024 before U.S. District Judge Cecilia Altonaga.

Wagners membership in the longtime Latin Kings, which was founded as an Hispanic street gang in Chicago decades ago, was discovered by federal investigators. But the gang didnt appear to play a role in his sex-trafficking crime, according to court records.

Wagner was arrested in March of last year after one of his victims tossed a note to a customer at a local Walgreens pharmacy, accusing him of forcing her into prostitution. In the note, the victim asked the customer to call the police.

In multiple interviews, the victim told investigators that starting in June 2021, Wagner was holding her against her will at a house located in Miami, Florida, and was forcing her to engage in commercial sex acts for money, according to a complaint and affidavit written by a Homeland Security Investigations agent.

The victim said Wagner posted advertisements on websites known for prostitution. She told investigators that Wagner told her to charge clients at least $500 for commercial sex acts and made her give him all of the money, the affidavit said.

Wagner kept her locked up in the Miami house, where she met with clients for commercial sex, the victim told investigators.

The victim stated that if she did not make the amount of money that Wagner required her to make, he would physically batter [her] by, among other things, punching her in the head and choking her, according to the affidavit, filed by lead prosecutor Lacee Elizabeth Monk.

She said Wagner told her to keep her phone on during the commercial sex act so that he could listen to what she was doing with a client, the affidavit stated. She did not want to do so, but eventually complied and picked up Wagners phone calls during the commercial sex transaction.

When Wagner returned to the house, she said, he hit her with a closed first in the head and choked her.
DETROIT  Michigan police Tuesday examined a pair of slashed tires near the Detroit home of murdered synagogue president Samantha Woll.

Detective Alexander Martinez, with the state's major case unit, inspected the tires of a white Mercedes, as a team of forensic investigators combed through Woll's home wearing blue booties.

Authorities haven't publicly named a suspect in the shocking slaying of the beloved Detroit native.

Martinez photographed the damage, including a cluster of four one-inch slits on one tire.

SLAIN SYNAGOGUE LEADER SAMANTHA WOLL'S FINAL HOURS AT DETRIOT WEDDING: SHE WAS HAPPY, HAVING FUN

Michigan State Police Detective Alexander Martinez takes photos of punctured tires in Detroit, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, near the home of slain Jewish leader Samantha Woll.

Fox News Digital was the first to report the vandalism of the neighbor's car, which occurred the same weekend that the Jewish leader and political strategist was stabbed to death.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Woll, 40, was found dead about 6:30 a.m. Saturday on her front lawn near a trail of blood that led into her townhome in the upscale neighborhood of Lafayette Park.

Detroit Police Chief James White said at a press conference Monday that investigators believe she was attacked inside her home, stumbled outside, and then collapsed. He added that they were close to identifying a suspect.

NEIGHBOR OF SLAIN DETROIT SYNAGOGUE LEADER REVEALS 2ND OMINOUS INCIDENT OVER WEEKEND

The car owners, who asked that their names be withheld, are a couple who live in the same complex. The woman said they had left town Friday and returned Sunday afternoon to find the driver-side tires of their car, parked about 200 feet from Woll's front door, flat from puncture marks.

"We've never had a tire slashing down here that I've known about, and we've been down here 30 years," the woman previously told Fox News Digital. "I don't know if it's connected or not, but it's unnerving. It's unnerving right now because you don't know."

Martinez did not take the damaged tires as evidence and told the owners they could discard them.

MURDER OF JEWISH LEADER SAMANTHA WOLL WASN'T A HATE CRIME: DETROIT POLICE

Michigan State Police Crime Scenes Unit gathers evidence at Samantha Woll's home in Detroit, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

At least 10 investigators were in and out of Woll's home Tuesday removing evidence and taking photographs for nearly three hours.

After the flurry of activity, a bouquet of flowers and a blue vase with a single rose were the only outward signs that the townhome had been the scene of a grisly murder.

White told reporters that Woll's killing was not motivated by antisemitism.

State Police officer Alexander Martinez examines punctured tires at LaSalle Townhouses, Detroit, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. The tires belong to neighbors of Samantha Woll, who was murdered at her home on Saturday.

The president of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue had returned home from a wedding at about 12:30 a.m. According to witness accounts, she was happy and having a good time at the celebration.

There were no signs of forced entry at her home and her phone and ID were with her.

Woll has worked on the election campaigns of Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, state Sen. Stephanie Chang and Attorney General Dana Nessel, who are all Democrats.

At least 10 investigators were in and out of Woll's home Tuesday removing evidence and taking photographs.

The slain woman was an avid supporter of Israel and co-founded the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit.

Many initially speculated on social media that Woll was the victim of a hate crime amid the escalating tensions across the U.S. over the Israel-Hamas War, but police dismissed the theory.

The Detroit Police Department declined to comment on whether the slashed tires are related to the murder probe.





Original article source: Michigan police investigate tire slashing near home of slain Jewish leader
A police officer shot a deer beloved by a town in Michigan, prompting a Justice for Annie campaign, horrifying footage shows.

Annie was seen by Pokagon Band Tribal Police officer David Loza on the driveway of a familys home in Lawrence while he was assisting the Van Buren County Sheriffs office on an unrelated child support incident.

Nevaeh Sylvester, who looked after the deer, filmed the officer holding Annie by a collar before taking out his gun and shooting her dead.

Mr Loza allegedly told the family that the animal was domesticated and needs to be put down, according to a WWMT report.
EAST LANSING  Rema Vassar, who was elected chairwoman of the Michigan State University Board of Trustees in January, is facing calls to step down over leadership concerns, including accusations of bullying, ethics violations and other complaints.

The calls were sparked by a Sunday letter sent to the board by Trustee Brianna Scott, accusing Vassar of a wide range of purported missteps. Prominent Democrats have joined Scott in calling for Vassar's resignation. Vassar has released a statement refuting the accusations, and she has at least one supporter on the board in fellow Democrat Dennis Denno.

From Western to Wayne State to MSU

MSU Board of Trustees Chair Rema Vassar, left, and Trustee Brianna Scott, pictured Friday, April 21, 2023, during the Michigan State University Board of Trustees meeting at the Hannah Administration Building.

Vassar is a Western Michigan University alumna and has a doctorate from the University of California at Los Angeles in urban schooling.

Vassar works as a professor in the department of Administrative and Organizational Studies at Wayne State Universitys College of Education. She has also written research articles about education, and topics include parent-school partnerships; race, gender, and class implications in schools; implications of policy and practice on student achievement and outcomes; and equity, justice, access, and inclusion for minority communities. She has 20 years of experience in K-12 public education as a teacher, counselor and principal.

Vassar has also worked as a consultant for educators and school administrators in adopting culturally relevant methods of teaching, facilitating community engagement and inviting parents to participate in education.

Earlier this year, she was also appointed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to the MiSTEM Advisory Council for a three-year term.

Whitmer was asked about the recent accusations against Vassar but did not take a stance.

"I think the allegations, if accurate, amount to a serious breach of conduct in what we expect of our board members and ... the oath that they took." Whitmer told the Detroit Free Press. The university is conducting an investigation.

Vassar lives in Detroit with her husband and son.

Detroiter becomes first Black woman to lead board

From left, Michigan State University Interim President Teresa Woodruff, MSU Board of Trustees Chairperson Rema Vassar and other leaders and students throw dirt during a groundbreaking ceremony for the MSU Multicultural Unity Center on Friday, April 21, 2023, on campus in East Lansing.

In 2020, Vassar was elected to an eight-year term on the Board of Trustees. She was supported by longtime Trustee Joel Ferguson, who in August that year announced he would not run for election after criticism over his support of former MSU presidents Lou Anna Simon and John Engler and comments that trivialized Nassar's victims. The developer noted he would spend his time working on new developments and helping elect key Democrats, including now-President Joe Biden, U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Vassar. "I know shell be a great asset for MSU," he said about Vassar at the time.

In January, the board in a 5-3 vote named Vassar chairwoman of the board, making her the first Black woman in MSU history to serve in that role.

"I do want to say that this moment is historic," said Vassar at the time. "To have me  sitting in this seat today is pretty remarkable. So, I just appreciate you all giving me that trust and I appreciate an opportunity to make history today.

Vassar, who voted for herself, also received votes from trustees Dan Kelly, Kelly Tebay, Denno and Scott. Trustee Renee Knake Jefferson, who was appointed by Whitmer before being reelected in a statewide vote, also vied for the post and received votes from trustees Dianne Byrum and Sandy Pierce. Pierce was also appointed to the board by Whitmer, filling a position left vacant when former trustee Pat O'Keefe resigned Nov. 30 over concerns about a lack of transparency by the board.

Scott voiced her support for her colleague after the vote.

"I have all confidence that Trustee Vassar is going to lead us extraordinarily into this next phase as we go into some very important decision-making with the new presidential search and other things coming up," Scott said.

'This might not be what you want to hear'

Michigan State University Board of Trustees Chair Rema Vassar speaks during a groundbreaking ceremony for the MSU student recreation and wellness center on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2023, on the MSU campus in East Lansing.

During her campaign, Vassar said she believed the thousands of documents surrounding the Nassar investigation being withheld by the school to preserve attorney-client privilege should be released. Vassar was elected to serve on the board with the support of some Nassar survivors and the Parents of Sister Survivors Engage group.

The board had previously refused Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessels request to release the documents. Earlier this year, Nessel renewed her call after board membership changed, with Denno and Pierce joining the group and new leadership in Vassar.

We remain committed as ever to pursuing justice for the many survivors of Larry Nassars violence at the University, and I hope the newly comprised board shares that commitment with us more meaningfully than their predecessors, Nessel said in April.

However, a vote to release the documents never took place. A week after Nessel made her request, the board held a meeting and there was no mention of the documents on the agenda. According to the board's bylaws, "No motion or resolution shall be voted upon at a board meeting which is not included on the agenda ... unless the motion or resolution is endorsed in writing by three or more trustees." Therefore, the vote could have been held even if it was not on the distributed agenda as long as three trustees agreed on adding it.

Vassar offered an explanation to Nessel and the survivors of Nassar.

"We will maintain attorney client privilege," Vassar said during the April 21 meeting. "This might not be what you want to hear. Im sure it's not. On behalf of the board, please know Im sorry."

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan State board dispute: Who is Rema Vassar?
By Humeyra Pamuk, David Brunnstrom and Laurie Chen

WASHINGTON/BEIJING (Reuters) -The United States and China have disagreements and need "in-depth" and "comprehensive" dialogue to reduce misunderstandings and stabilize ties, China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, said on Thursday, kicking off a long-anticipated visit to Washington.

Standing next to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken , Wang said the two countries share important common interests and challenges that they need to resolve together.

"Therefore, China and the United States need to have dialogue. Not only should we resume dialogue, the dialogue should be in-depth and comprehensive," Wang said, speaking through an interpreter.

Dialogue would help reduce misunderstandings, help stabilize the relationship and "return it to the track of healthy, stable and sustainable development," he said.

Blinken responded: "I agree with what the foreign minister said."

Before Wang spoke, Blinken had said he looked forward to constructive talks with his Chinese counterpart. During the meeting, Blinken expressed his condolences on the passing of China's former premier, Li Keqiang.

Wang's three-day visit is the latest in a flurry of diplomatic engagements between the two strategic rivals as they seek to manage their differences to avoid conflict. The trip primarily is to prepare for an expected summit between President Joe Biden and President Xi Jinping in November.

Blinken and Wang will continue their discussions on Friday.

The Israel-Hamas conflict has added a fresh dynamic to the testy relationship of the superpowers, and Washington is hoping Beijing can use its influence with Iran to prevent an escalation into a wider war in the Middle East.

Wang is expected to meet U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday. He is also expected to speak with Biden during his visit to the White House, although it is unclear how substantial their interaction will be.

The Biden administration's priority with Beijing has been to prevent intense competition between the two largest economies and disagreements on a host of issues - including trade, Taiwan and the South China Sea - from veering into conflict.

However, while both Beijing and Washington have spoken of looking for areas where they can work together, and Xi said on Wednesday China was willing to cooperate on global challenges, experts do not expect immediate progress.

PATH TO BIDEN-XI MEETING

Policy analysts in China and the U.S. say both sides share an interest in averting a wider war in the Middle East and that China, as a major oil purchaser, could exert considerable influence on Iran. Whether it will remains to be seen.

"The Chinese certainly have an interest in preventing a direct U.S.-Iranian confrontation, as they are major oil consumers and that would spike prices," said Jon Alterman, head of the Middle East program at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies.

"Still, the Chinese are unlikely to do any heavy lifting here. I expect they'll want a seat at the table when the Israel-Gaza struggle gets resolved, but they don't feel much need or ability to hasten resolution."

Shi Yinhong, professor of international relations at Renmin University of China, said Beijing exerting its influence over Iran was "almost the only serious and practical U.S. expectation of China on the Middle East situation."

However Shi added: "The U.S. position on Iran is far from acceptable to China and vice versa. Mutual compromise on this issue could be too limited and small to be of any significance."

Wang's visit to Washington comes after several top U.S. officials, including Blinken, visited Beijing in the past several months.

Analysts expect Wang's talks to focus on preparations for an anticipated meeting between Biden and Xi on the sidelines of the summit of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) countries in San Francisco from Nov. 11 to 17. It would be Biden and Xi's first in-person meeting since a summit in Bali last November.

The two sides go into APEC from different economic perspectives, with economic policy analysts saying the U.S. has weathered challenging global conditions after the COVID-19 pandemic somewhat better than China.

U.S. and Chinese officials held a virtual meeting on Monday on macroeconomic developments.

U.S. officials said Taiwan and the South and East China Seas, where they accused Beijing of "destabilizing and dangerous actions" against rival territorial claimants, would also be on the agenda. Re-establishing military-to-military ties with China remains a top priority to avoid unintended conflict, they said.

(Reporting by Humeyra Pamuk and David Brunnstrom in Washington, and Laurie Chen in Beijing; Additional reporting by Simon Lewis, Michael Martina, Trevor Hunnicutt and Gursimran Kaur; Editing by Josie Kao, Tom Hogue and Raju Gopalakrishnan)
It took three weeks, three nominees, and a great deal of political strife and infighting to break the stalemate, but the U.S. House has finally elected its new speaker.

That new speaker of the House is Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson.

The Republican congressman isnt someone whose face is often splashed across the front pages of national news outlets. The 51-year-old is currently serving his fourth term as the representative for the 4th District of Louisiana, which is composed of localities in the northwestern part of the state, including the cities of Shreveport, Minden, DeRidder, and Natchitoches.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson represents Lousianas 4th District. (Photo: YouTube screenshot/Forbes Breaking News)

While hes maintained a pretty low profile, Johnson is known for political positions that are deeply connected to his ultraconservative religious views. He boasts strong opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights and has advocated for prayer in public schools.

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Additionally, not only has he backed the false claims that the 2020 election was rigged, but he even went to great lengths to garner enough House GOP support to advance an amicus brief supporting a Texas lawsuit that would invalidate the election results in key states. He even served ceremoniously on Donald Trumps legal team for both of the former presidents impeachment trials.

I have just called President Trump to say this: "Stay strong and keep fighting, sir! The nation is depending upon your resolve. We must exhaust every available legal remedy to restore Americans' trust in the fairness of our election system."  Rep. Mike Johnson (@RepMikeJohnson) November 7, 2020

With all that in mind, it isnt surprising that his record doesnt show any concerted efforts to advance the interests of Black Americans, especially in regard to legislative proposals that are high-profile topics of discussion among Black communities.

In 2019, he said that he didnt support reparations at a subcommittee hearing, stating that repayments to descendants of enslaved Americans would almost certainly be unconstitutional on their face.

I dont think reparations for something that happened 150 years ago, for whom none of us currently living are responsible, is a good idea, Johnson said. We tried to deal with our original sin of slavery by fighting a Civil War, by passing landmark civil rights legislation. Weve elected an African-American president. I dont think we should be trying to figure out how to compensate for it.

He even used a Black child that he and his wife took in when the child was 14 to attempt to exemplify that he knows the struggles of discrimination.

Never miss a story  sign up for ATLANTA BLACK STARS free daily newsletters to stay up-to-date on the latest developments, from top news headlines to celebrity news.

I personally know the challenges he has faced early in his life. Ive walked with him through discrimination that hes had to endure over the years and the hurdles he faced, the lawmaker said.

Unsurprisingly, his take was met with boos and jeers from the crowd.

Last year, he argued against advocacy of racial equity during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on discrimination against Muslim, Arab, and South Asian American communities, stating that equal treatment and equal opportunity are the foundation of civil rights laws. Some advocates today are pushing for what amounts to a drastic departure from our traditional notions of racism and discrimination and equality as have exsited in American law for decades and generations. Instead of equality of treatment and equal opportunity, these advocates are pushing for what we now call equity. Rather than non-discrimination, equity requires explicit discrimination to achieve an equitable distribution of outcomes. Perversely, these ideas have caused discrimination against some of the communities that are the subject of todays hearing.

On Tuesday, Republicans were working to make Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer their new speaker. He dropped out of the race hours after being voted the GOP nominee because he couldnt secure enough support on the House floor. Not a full day passed before House Republicans settled on Johnson as their new man.

The party was playing a political tug-of-war over which member would be best suited to take the seat. Hardliners werent budging over their desire to elect someone who would prioritize their budget agenda and wouldnt mind playing ball with defending Trump as the embattled former president grapples with several criminal indictments. Moderates wanted someone who could move ahead with spending deals that ousted speaker Kevin McCarthy made with President Joe Biden.

Weeks of back-and-forth, secret and open ballots, failed nominees, and closed-door meetings finally led them to settle on Johnson, who was backed by several stalwart conservatives. Speaker hopefuls preceding Johnson included Steve Scalise, Jim Jordan, and Emmer.

Now that the House has a speaker, legislative efforts can continue to bolster support in global conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine war and the battles between Israel and Palestine. Congress will also have to vote on a budget deal ahead of a looming government shutdown on Nov. 17.

Read the original story here.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden met with new House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House on Thursday to discuss his request for nearly $106 billion for Israel, Ukraine and other national security needs.

Johnson, a staunch conservative allied with Donald Trump, has shown little interest in providing additional money from Congress to support Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Later, the new Republican speaker insisted Congress is not going to abandon Ukraine.

Instead, Johnson said House Republicans would first bring a separate bill to provide $14.5 billion in aid to Israel, but they need more information about the Biden administration's Ukraine strategy.

We cant allow Vladimir Putin to prevail in Ukraine because I don't believe it would stop there, Johnson said on Fox News' Hannity, referring to the Russian president. But he said, We must stand with our important ally in the Middle East and that's Israel.

The new Republican leader who swept into office nearly a month after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as speaker had a busy first full day in office, having inherited many of the same political problems that tormented past GOP leaders and challenged their tenure as speaker.

In the morning, Johnson said prayer is appropriate as a response to the mass shootings in Maine.

Johnson, an evangelical Christian from Louisiana, declined to take questions, including about the possibility of any gun violence legislation from Congress.

Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that the evil can end and the senseless violence can stop, he said.

The House convened with a bustle of activity, making up for lost time during the weeks of chaos since McCarthy's ouster as speaker. But the initial goodwill toward Johnson blurs the political fault lines challenging his ability to lead the GOP majority in the face of daunting issues ahead.

By Nov. 17, the Congress must fund the government again or risk a federal shutdown. Biden wants nearly $106 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Israel and Ukraine. And Republicans are eager to resume their impeachment inquiry into Biden over his son Hunter's business dealings.

Enough of the chaos, enough of the dysfunction, said Jeffries, D-N.Y., adding it was time for Congress to get back to business.

Jeffries said Democrats were heartbroken over the latest shootings and stand with the people of Maine in every way possible, including discussing how Congress can address gun violence.

Johnson said he and Biden met together for more than 15 minutes before the other party arrived.

It was a productive meeting, Johnson told reporters back at the Capitol. I enjoyed my visit with the president.

Biden met with Johnson and Jeffries before the House leaders joined a classified briefing with other congressional lawmakers on the assistance package, according to a White House official.

The briefing in the Situation Room for Johnson and other House leaders on the emergency funding request was the first time the new speaker, who opposes the aid to Ukraine, was getting a close airing from White House officials about Bidens case for the money. The White House has conducted similar briefings in recent weeks.

Biden had called Johnson to congratulate him after his election Wednesday and said it was time for all of us to act responsibly to fund the government and provide that foreign aid. We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

Johnson, 51, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn as speaker and is now second in line to the presidency, after the vice president.

While not the Republicans' top choice, Johnson had few foes and an important backer in Donald Trump.

At the Capitol on Thursday, Johnson sat down with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who told reporters afterward that he had a very good meeting with the new speaker.

Johnson met later with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who said on social media they had a great meeting. He has also heard from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who told the new speaker in a Wednesday call that a bipartisan agreement with Democrats is the only way to avoid a shutdown.

In winning the gavel, Johnson, who has been in the House for less than a decade, drew together fellow Republicans through his faith, conservative roots and Trumps nod after more seasoned leaders had failed.

Im a Bible-believing Christian, Johnson told Fox's Sean Hannity.

The speaker said when he's asked his views on the issues, he advises: Well, go pick up a Bible off your shelf and read it, thats my worldview. Thats what I believe.

Democrats said Johnson, a lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, was an extreme conservative, a strict opponent of abortion access and an architect of Trump's legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

After Johnson's election, lawmakers approved a resolution Wednesday saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. They next turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Rather than take a scheduled work period at home, Republicans rearranged the House calendar to return to Washington next week and keep pushing through the various government funding bills before the Nov. 17 deadline.

In a letter to colleagues, Johnson outlined priorities that include providing a short-term funding bill, into next year, to prevent a November shutdown  almost the same move that led to McCarthy's ouster.

Speaker Johnson has been very clear that weve got to secure Americas border, we want to support Israel, said Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who conferred with Johnson ahead of the White House meeting. But all of the other items that the President is talking about run secondary.

Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Johnson is thoughtful and smart, and understands that aid for Ukraine is a national security issue, despite opposition from other Republicans in their majority.

"And what I saw in the Situation Room was I thought he was very open to the idea, said McCaul.

To avoid a shutdown, Johnson will need to balance far-right demands with the realities of keeping the government functioning. Most Republicans voted against the budget deal McCarthy, R-Calif., struck with Biden earlier this year, demanding steeper spending cuts.

Similar Republican infighting has chased three other GOP speakers to early departures. The difference now is that Republican rules allow any single lawmaker to force a vote to remove the speaker from office.

___

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin in New York, Darlene Superville and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON  Mike Johnson by all accounts is a political unknown outside of Washington and his home state of Louisiana.

But in the span of about one day, the little-known Republican ascended to the highest position in the House when he was elected the 56th speaker of the lower chamber Wednesday afternoon.

Johnsons new second-in-command and fellow Louisianan, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, gave a subtle nod to Johnsons low profile, joking Wednesday that Americans might have to Google the new speaker. Johnson, who was the No. 5-ranking House Republican as the conferences vice chair, is a political dark horse compared with other members of Congress.

And stacked up against the other leaders in House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.; Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.; and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., Johnson is certainly a newcomer to political leadership, having entered the House in 2017.

The newly crowned speakers quiet presence on Capitol Hill in part contributed to his seemingly meteoric rise to the speakership. Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., one of the GOP lawmakers who voted to oust Johnsons predecessor, Rep. Kevin McCarthy , R-Calif., lauded Johnson as boring and described him as a goober.

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., delivers remarks as Republican House lawmakers gather on the Capitol steps after electing Johnson to the speakership in Washington.

Burchetts praise for Johnson isnt unique. In the final vote to crown a speaker, not a single Republican lawmaker voted against Johnson. The new leader managed to do what so many GOP lawmakers lamented on Capitol Hill  it had looked as if no one in the world could get the votes needed to become speaker.

Bringing together a fractured House GOP wasn't 'magic'

Johnsons ability to unite the Republican conference, which seemed like an impossible task just days ago, wasnt magic, Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, told USA TODAY. Once he became the nominee, there was no need for Johnson to try to persuade any holdouts like his predecessors.

Scalise, the first Republican speaker pick, attempted to persuade hard-right lawmakers to fall behind him but withdrew from the race just one day after securing the nomination as it became clear there was no convincing ultra-conservatives.

House Judiciary Committee Chair Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, was the second nominee, but House Republicans decided to drop him after the Ohio Republican failed to persuade GOP holdouts to support him.

The third nominee, House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., fielded questions for hours from conservative holdouts to try to alleviate their concerns in his quest for the speakership, only to drop out shortly after securing the nomination.

Their failed efforts come after McCarthy endured 15 ballots in January to secure the gavel, making concession after concession to his holdouts to win the speakership.

Johnson on the other hand, had to do none of that.

It was just OK. It was finally just OK. Thats all that happened. There was no moment he had to convince people. There were just no members that had a problem or a valid reason with him, Crenshaw said.

The Louisiana Republican is, as Crenshaw puts it, a nice guy that no member had qualms about. His fellow GOP lawmakers all seem to agree with that assessment.

Speaker of the House Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., delivers remarks as Republican House lawmakers gather on the Capitol steps after electing Johnson to the speakership in Washington on Oct. 25, 2023. Johnson was the fourth candidate nominated by the GOP for the role after Speaker Kevin McCarthy was voted out of the job on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023 in a move led by a group of hardline House conservatives.

Hes a very nice guy. He has no enemies, Rep. Mike Gallagher, R-Wis., told USA TODAY.

Gallagher entered Congress in 2017, the same year as Johnson. The two served on the House Armed Services Committee, but Gallagher said he wouldnt say he knows Johnson well.

Johnsons fellow Louisianan Republicans who are closer to him say he has the chops to guide a House Republican conference that has proven to be unwieldy at times.

Ive known Mike for a number of years. Hes a man of integrity. Hes a man of grace and fairness, said Rep. Julia Letlow, R-La. He has shown us that he has what it takes to unify.

Johnsons relatively low profile in Congress was likely a major asset for him in his pursuit of the gavel, one of his rivals in the speakers race said.

I think everybody was looking for somebody who didnt have a lot of negatives about him. Sometimes when youre not known, you dont have any negatives, Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., told USA TODAY. Hern ran against Johnson twice for the gavel but ultimately threw his support behind him.

It wasn't only about getting the votes to get there. It was who didnt have the votes against them, said Hern, chair of the Republican Study Committee, the largest group of House Republicans, numbering about 170.

Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., talk to reporters as he arrives to the Republican caucus meeting at the Capitol in Washington, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

Johnson's quick push for the speakership

Behind closed doors, according to House Republicans, there was barely any heavy lifting needed for Johnson to clinch the speakership. In one moment, Johnson was the speaker-designee, and in the next he was speaker, unifying the House Republican conference.

Johnson won the gavel so fast, his wife couldnt make it in time to Washington to see him sworn in.

Shes spent the last couple of weeks on her knees in prayer to the Lord. And, um, shes a little worn out, he quipped shortly after winning.

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., told USA TODAY this all came very quick for Johnson, but the Pennsylvania lawmaker expressed confidence in his ability to lead a fractious House Republican conference.

Hes going to have to grow into the job, he said. But hes a good person. Thats 99% of it right there.

Johnsons appeal to every corner of the House Republican conference includes his policy stances that mirror those of the most conservative lawmakers in the lower chamber. For instance, he has voted against codifying same-sex marriage and continued U.S. aid to Ukraine.

Perhaps the most notable thing about Johnson, and what also happens to be House Democrats' main gripe about him, was his efforts to overturn the 2020 election. As former President Donald Trump sought to reverse his defeat, Johnson led an amicus brief signed by more than 100 GOP lawmakers calling for the Supreme Court to overturn Trumps loss in key battleground states.

Johnson has yet to say whether he believes Trump lost the 2020 election. After his nomination, when a reporter asked him about his efforts to revert Trumps loss, Johnson shook his head, smiled and said next question.

We dont agree on a lot of policy issues, but thats OK. He represents his district and I represent mine, Fitzpatrick said.

Fitzpatrick is co-chair of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, a group evenly divided between moderate House Democrats and House Republicans. The groups very mission, which is to bridge the gap between both sides of the aisle, seems antithetical to Johnsons voting record.

Regardless, Fitzpatrick said, he still has his voting card, along with other moderates who might not be as amicable to Johnsons conservative beliefs, such as Reps. Marc Molinaro, R-N.Y., and Don Bacon, R-Neb.

We still have a four-vote margin in the House, he added. Were going to make sure that the legislative agenda that passes the House is reflective of our country.

US Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, Republican of Pennsylvania, speaks to the press on the steps of the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on Sept. 29, 2023. The US government began on Sept. 28, informing workers of an impending shutdown that could see millions of federal employees and military personnel temporarily sent home or working without pay unless Congress reaches a funding deal.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How Mike Johnson unified House Republicans to become speaker
This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox.

Finally, after 22 days and four nominees, House Republicans on Wednesday picked Mike Johnson to replace deposed Speaker Kevin McCarthy . Finally would be the most important word in that previous sentence. Mike Johnson, a largely unknown figure in the GOP and a surprise choice, may be the least.

The embarrassing intra-party squabble that stretched for three weeks and paralyzed Congress grew more perilous with each passing day as government funding deadlines raced closer, a war between Israels government and Hamas erupted in the Middle East, and Ukraines defense against Russia became more iffy. The elevation of Johnson, a Louisiana lawyer who arrived in Washington the same month Donald Trump was inaugurated, came so suddenly and seemingly out of nowhere that Johnsons wife couldnt even make it to the Capitol in time to see her husband be elevated to just behind the Vice President in terms of constitutional power.

She couldnt get a flight in time. This happened sort of suddenly, Johnson said in his first speech as the new face of House Republicans, a fractured collection of competing agendas, ideologies, and personalities that may prove ungovernable in short order.

With a margin of no more than five votes, Johnson is starting his attempt at governing with one of the smallest majorities for a new Speaker in a century. Even his fellow Republicans have doubts about his longevity in the role. The fourth-term lawmaker from Shreveport, La., told his colleagues he would run the chamber by not really running it himself. He promised a decentralized power structure and pledged that lawmakers themselves would have as much autonomy as they believed they needed. Yet he has no plans to change the rule that allowed McCarthys ouster at the hands of just a handful of troublemakers, leaving Johnson in an equally precarious position and at the mercy of the same mercurial whims of raconteurs.

To listen to Johnsons address on Wednesday, its tempting to think Republicans had settled on a middle-of-the-road figure who could bridge the deep divides between the parties and even fellow Republicans. I do look forward to working with you on behalf of the American people. I know we see things from very different points of view, Johnson said, addressing both his new playground and specifically Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. But I know that in your heart you love and care about this country and want to do whats right. So were going to find common ground.

But it also quickly became clear that Johnsons optimism is matched only by his hard-right credentials. I dont believe there are any coincidences in a matter like this. I believe that Scripture, the Bible is very clear that God is the one that raises up those in authority. He raised up each of you. All of us, Johnson told the House. And I believe that God has ordained and allowed us to be brought here for this specific moment in this time.

Johnsons right-wing views will draw plenty of attention in the coming days but he is not an extreme outlier among his fellow Houses Republicans. In fact, he became the vice chairman of the conference and earlier served as the chair of the Republican Study Committee, the conservative ideas factory inside the House. Colleagues described him as cordial, even to political opposites. Whereas some in the MAGA wing of the GOP delight in being in-your-face aggressive, Johnson takes a choir-masters lilt and lies in wait until the right moment. All of which, of course, makes for an entirely unpredictable Speakership.

But its indisputable that Johnson is a different flavor of Republican than his predecessor. While McCarthy dabbled in his share of election denialism after Joe Bidens 2020 victory Johnson was among the biggestif not loudestdefenders of Trump. Johnson circulated a friend-of-the-court brief in the House, collecting more than 100 signatures during a campaign that some found to be menacing, and on Jan. 6, 2021, he led the effort to keep Trump in power. He has told colleagues that the Biden presidency is one that will have an asterisk attached to it.

Asked about his election denialism on Tuesday, Johnson did not answer. His colleagues told the reporter to shut up and booed her.

Around the Capitol, Democratic staffers quickly settled on their theme that Johnson was merely a softer spoken version of Jim Jordan, one of the contenders who sought to follow McCarthy but was deemed too extreme or caustic to be palatable to enough Republicans. Democrats were quick to point out Johnsons opposition to abortion rights, LGBTQ rights, even funding for veterans and Ukrainians. But for now, Johnson is working with the slightest of national profiles, giving him something of a blank slate with the American public. At least for now, he is no Nancy Pelosi or Newt Gingrich, the kind of Speaker who members of the opposite party could invoke and be confident that the ka-ching of fundraising would follow.

Johnson told his colleagues that the Houses first item of business would be a measure to support Israel in its war against Hamas, setting the chamber up to do its job for the first time in three full weeks. But thats just one of the pressing items facing this neophyte Speaker who comes to office with one of the thinnest political resumes in decades and with the least experience in 140 years. The White House and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell alike have urged Congress to couple funding for Israel with money for Ukraine. The government is also due to run out of money in mid-November and Johnson has told colleagues to expect another stopgap spending resolution, likely into the new year to avoid a holiday-time threat of a shutdown.

During previous votes on Ukraine and on government funding, Johnson was a nay. But a rank-and-file lawmakers noeven one he says is mischaracterizedis seldom predictive of what he will allow to come to the floor as Speaker. Or at least thats what lawmakers desperate for the House to return to what passes for functionality are counting on. Then again, the last three weeks have shown not just how broken the Republican Party has become, but how much Congress is hobbling from crisis to crisis. More than specific pieces of legislation, Johnsons legacy-in-making could well be to fix the half of the Capitol he now controls. Or at least find some spackling to patch the cracks in the plaster.

Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter.

Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com.
Manuel Cortina ZUMAPRESS Newscom

Javier Milei , the firebrand libertarian candidate for Argentina's presidency, surprised the world with a first-place finish in the primaries this August. But in the presidential election this past weekend, he finished second behind Peronist candidate Sergio Massa, Argentina's current economy minister. Neither candidate passed the threshold needed to become the next president, so they will have a head-to-head rematch on November 19.

Does Milei still have a chance? Why did Argentina's markets falter after Milei came out ahead this summer? And why are Massa's allies in the government handing out money to voters?

Join Reason's Zach Weissmueller and Liz Wolfe this Thursday at 1 p.m. Eastern on Reason's YouTube channel or Facebook page to discuss these questions and more with Marcos Falcone, a political scientist, project manager at Argentina's Fundacion Libertad, and podcast host.

Sources referenced in this conversation:

Argentina's 2023 presidential election results

"Argentina's (Unexpected) Libertarian Moment," by Marcos Falcone

"Argentina's presidential election delivers a surprise result," The Economist

Support for Milei by party affiliation, Economist Intelligence Unit

"A man, a plan, a chainsaw," by Daniel Politi and David Biller

"Is Javier Milei's Movement in Argentina a Cult of Personality in the Name of Libertarianism?" by Antonella Marty and Jose Benegas

"What's in Javier Milei's head?" by Federico Rivas Molina

The post Can Milei Still Win in Argentina? appeared first on Reason.com.
Four agents from Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) were allegedly inside a car that exploded in occupied Berdiansk on Oct. 23, Ukraine's military intelligence (HUR) said on Oct. 26.

The HUR said that the four were "liquidated" by "representatives of the Ukrainian resistance movement," but did not clarify how many were killed or wounded, and did not take credit for the incident.

However, the Russian state-controlled media RBC claimed on Oct. 25 that one Russian serviceman had been killed in the explosion.

Among those in the car at the time of the explosion was a "Russian war criminal who brutally tortured local citizens of Ukraine," according to HUR. It is unclear if that individual was wounded or killed in the attack.

Car bombs have repeatedly struck Russian forces and collaborators in occupied parts of Ukraine. It is often unclear who was responsible, as Ukrainian officials typically do not comment.

Vladimir Malov, a member of Russia's ruling United Russia party, was killed in a car bomb explosion in the city of Nova Kakhovka in Kherson Oblast on Oct. 7.

In occupied Mykhailivka, in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, four collaborators were targeted by a car bomb on June 2. Sources later told Ukrainska Pravda that two had been killed in the explosion.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian drone strike likely targeted Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, Zelensky says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Editors note: This report contains discussion of suicide. Troops, veterans and family members experiencing suicidal thoughts can call the 24-hour Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-8255, text 838255 or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net.

There was a small uptick in active duty troop suicides in 2022, the latest Defense Department data shows, with small drops in suicides among Reserve and National Guard members. The overall trend of military suicide, meanwhile, has remained roughly the same over the past decade.

Since the department began tracking numbers in 2011, both the active and reserve component suicide rates have hovered around 20 per 100,000, according to the latest annual Pentagon suicide report released Thursday.

The rates have held steady in the reserve component and increased slightly in the active rank-and-file despite a complete revamping of suicide prevention and mental health infrastructure in the military since 2011.

The challenge is that, you know, a lot of cultural change and a lot of the recommendations and the practices that weve been implementing, they do just take some time to take root, Beth Foster, the Pentagons executive director for force resiliency, told Military Times during a briefing.

The active duty suicide rate crept up 3% in 2022, but dropped 12% in the Reserve and 18% in the Guard. The rate among military spouses and children also dropped 16%. By the numbers, the overall number of deaths dropped to 492 from 524.

While we are cautiously encouraged by some of these numbers, we need to see sustained, long-term changes in the trend to know if were truly making progress, Liz Clark, the director of the Defense Suicide Prevention Office, told reporters.

Earlier this year, an independent committee published its review of DoDs suicide prevention programs, coming back with some substantial recommendations on firearms, which account for nearly 70% of suicides across services and components.

Keeping firearms out of easy reach key to preventing military suicides

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin in February stood up a study group to consider implementing its many recommendations. In September, the Pentagon announced a host of initiatives to increase awareness of and access to mental health resources, as well as firearms safety education.

But the department has stopped short of implementing some of the review committees most aggressive recommendations, including standardizing firearms purchasing rules on military bases, rather than following local statutes.

The committee recommended raising the minimum purchase age to 25, a seven-day waiting period for the firearm and another four days for ammunition, and maintaining a registry of all personally-owned firearms kept in base housing.

The department wants more data before it implements a change like that, Foster said.

So, what we need to better understand is, is if we put those restrictions in place at our military installations, is that going to have a demonstrable difference? she said, noting that troops could go off-base instead.

DoD will need Congresss help to implement another big recommendation, which is for commanders to be able to keep track of what personnel in their respective units own firearms.

We heard stories from military leaders, senior NCOs, saying, in essence, Im not allowed to ask or sort of keep track of who are my most vulnerable and highest risk service members, Craig Bryan, an Air Force veteran and clinical psychologist at Ohio State University, told reporters during a February briefing on the committees findings.

When we lose service members in our units to firearm suicide, theres often this sense that we could have done more  we could have gotten involved, we could have helped them to secure and lock up their firearms, more safely, which could have potentially prevented those suicides.

While DoDs is working on better safe firearm storage education, Foster said, they are also leaning on Congress for help in changing the law.

Now that the secretary has made the announcement and decision about what recommendations well be moving forward with, we anticipate that those conversations will only pick up, she said.
Minister Louis Farrakhan has dropped a whopping $4.8 billion lawsuit against the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) for the alleged abuse, misuse, and false use of the term anti-semitism to smear his name and vilify the Nation of Islam.

The suit holds the ADL responsible for defamation and First Amendment rights interference and Farrakhan, 90, wants the organization to be permanently barred from using the terms anti-Semite, anti-Semitic, and antisemitism, to hinder his exercise of free speech.

Minister Louis Farrakhan (Photo: CAN TV/YouTube screenshot)

The Anti-Defamation League is a global, Jewish organization and anti-hate advocacy group specializing in civil rights law and combating antisemitism, bias, and extremism, according to its website.

Trending Today:

The Nation of Islam (NOI), which Farrakhan has worked on behalf of for decades, is an Islamic and Black nationalist movement founded in Detroit, Michigan, by Wallace D. Fard Muhammad in 1930.

While the ADL is a non-governmental group, Farrakhan claims that it is unAmerican and that its activities are so intermingled and intertwined with those of the F.B.I., and various local and state police departments, that it literally functions as a governmental actor that can be held liable for violating a persons constitutionally protected rights.

NOI members believe the ADL paid an agent to infiltrate the ranks of the Nation of Islam and then planted false evidence that resulted in the arrest of dozens of its members.

Farrakhan also lists several instances in the lawsuit in which the ADL denounced remarks hes made at public appearances to back up his defamation claims, but the very first instance happened in 1984 when Farrakhan was defending a set of remarks made by Jesse Jackson during Jacksons presidential campaign in which he called for equitable foreign policy to support Israeli-Palestinian relations with a pro-Palestine message.

That Jackson presidential campaign ran into real backlash from Jewish advocates when the Washington Post published a January 1984 feature in which he referred to New York City as Hymietown and Hymies, remarks he had not expected to make their way into print. Farrakhan defended Jackson in the wake of that interview, and afterward, the Muslim minister would be branded as an anti-Semite, and Jacksons campaign never recovered.

After a barrage of threats had been launched against Jackson by some Jewish Americans, Farrakhan came to his defense and was also allegedly met with similar attacks. He said the then-National Director called him a Black Hitler even though he asserted that he has never harmed a hair on the head of any Jewish person or even advocated for such.

The complaint goes on to say that he honors, respects, and even admires many members of the Jewish community, including his boyhood idol and one of the greatest violinists, Jascha Heifetz, who was a Russian Jew, and his own Jewish violin teachers.

He also mentioned a public appearance he made at the Los Angeles Forum in 1985, where protestors affiliated with a branch of the ADL called for his death. They allegedly stood outside the entrance of the building, chanting, Who do you want? Farrakhan. How do you want him? Dead!

While Farrakhan boasts some admiration for Jewish people, he claims there is a fundamental opposition against his theological viewpoint, which is founded on the belief that Black people are the real children of Israel. In the suit, he states:

I am declaring to the world that you, the black people of America and the Western

Hemisphere, are the lost, the rejected, the despised, the prodigal son, the lost sheep, the

Gods people. You are the people of God. Now, this is not a problem of antisemitism.

This is a problem of theological viewpoint So, the best thing you can do is tell the

people Im a hater, Im a bigot, Im an anti-Semite? I just challenged the Jewish

scholars. Show me the history of your suffering in Egypt for 400 years. I know you

cant show it to me, thats all Im saying; its not violence, its not antisemitism, its a

theological argument.

Its also important to note the several instances in which he himself has made some discriminatory declarations against Jews.

He once called Adolf Hitler a great German who rose Germany up from the ashes of her defeat by the united force of Europe and America after the First World War. It shouldnt be lost on anyone that the period Farrakhan is referring to notably precedes Germany initiating World War II and the Holocaust, in which Hitler carried out a massive genocide, killing six million Jews.

In 1998, he made a speech in which he said, The Jews have been so bad at politics, they lost half their population in the Holocaust.

In remarks at the 20th anniversary of the Million Man March, Farrakhan also said, The satanic jews control everything and mostly everybody.

And in 2018: Jews are responsible for all this filth and degenerate behavior that Hollywood is putting out: turning men into women, and women into men.

Other Black people the suit claims the ADL has labeled anti-Semites include Andrew Young, the Rev. Jackson, Kwame Ture, Nelson Mandela, Marc Lamont Hill and Dave Chappelle.

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The billions of dollars Farrakhan seeks would go to declaratory relief, attorneys fees and costs, and any other relief warranted as a result of the Defendants actions.

As for the ADLs response, the organizations director, Jonathan Greenblatt, a named defendant in the complaint, told The New York Post that the suit has no merit.

Louis Farrakhan is an antisemite. One need look no further than his own words and statements to come away with the same conclusion, he said.

Read the original story here.
Russian troops shelled the village of Pozhnia in Sumy Oblast at around 1 p.m. local time, killing a 16-year-old boy, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported on Oct. 26.

The boy was on the porch of his house at the time of the shelling that damaged several homes, according to Klymenko.

This is another attack on civilians. And Russia will definitely bear responsibility for it, the minister said on Telegram.

Pozhnia lies some 15 kilometers from the border with Russia. The settlements along the Sumy Oblast border have been subject to regular Russian attacks since Ukrainian troops liberated occupied areas of the region last spring.

Over 500 Ukrainian children have been killed and 1,139 wounded since the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, according to the governments database.

Read also: The dead villages: Hope and despair side-by-side in the liberated south

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukraines Ministry of Reconstruction denies the suspension of the grain corridor.

Source: the message published by the ministry on the evening of 26 October.

Quote: "Information regarding the cancellation or unscheduled stoppage of the temporary corridor for the movement of civilian vessels from and to the ports of Great Odesa is not true. All available routes established by the Navy of Ukraines Armed Forces are valid and are used by civilian vessels," the Ministry of Reconstruction said.

"Given that the corridor was implemented in the extremely difficult conditions of Russia's military aggression, its functioning takes into account the military situation and weather conditions," the message emphasises.

It is also reported that the ports of Great Odesa continue to host ships that have already passed through the temporary corridor.

Currently, 23 ships are being loaded in the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi. A total of 51 vessels have used the entrance corridor. 33 vessels exported more than 1.3 million tonnes of Ukrainian agricultural products and other cargo.

Reminder:

Consulting company Barva Invest claims that on 25 October, USPA (Ukraines Sea Ports Administration) issued a warning that the movement of vessels through the corridor would be suspended on 26 October 2023.

Additionally, on 25 October, the Ukrainian Grain Association announced numerous reports from participants in the grain market that vessels loaded with grain for export are being unjustifiably detained in the ports of Great Odesa, as a result of which farmers are suffering "colossal losses."

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A Minnesota doctor who once worked for poison control was arrested Friday and charged with second-degree murder, accused of poisoning his wife, who died in August.

Dr. Connor Bowman, 30, is accused of having killed his wife, Betty Bowman, who was 32 years old when she died Aug. 20, only four days after she was admitted to a hospital. After her death was flagged as suspicious, police learned that the two were having financial and marital troubles and that Connor said he would get a hefty life insurance payout from her death.

Investigators collected evidence that suggests Connor, who once worked for poison control, may have given Betty a drug for an ailment she did not have, Rochester police said Monday.

Betty Bowman. (Courtesy Nancy Sponsel)

An attorney listed as representing Bowman in court documents did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday afternoon.

In mid-August, Betty Bowman was admitted to the hospital after having suffered from symptoms of diarrhea and dehydration. Once there, she suffered from cardiac issues, fluid in her lungs and organ failure, according to a criminal complaint filed against Connor Bowman. She also had surgery to remove part of her colon.

Following her death, Connor Bowman wanted to cremate his wife, but the medical examiners office halted the cremation after it determined her death was suspicious, the complaint said.

The Southeast Minnesota Medical Examiners Office alerted Rochester police on Aug. 21 about the suspicious death of a woman, according to a criminal complaint. The woman was not named in the complaint; police later identified her as his wife, Betty.

Police then spoke to a person who told investigators the Bowmans were having problems in their marriage and were talking about a divorce following infidelity and a deteriorating relationship, the complaint said.

Police also learned from a tipster that Bowman attended pharmacy school, worked in poison control in Kansas and was in medical school. Investigators, according to the complaint, also learned that Bowman had debt, so he and his wife kept separate bank accounts, and that Bowman told the tipster he was going to get $500,000 in life insurance because his wife died.

Bowman was listed as a credentialed physician and surgeon with the Minnesota Board of Medical Practice and had an affiliation with the Mayo Clinic. No one with the Mayo Clinic could be immediately reached for comment Tuesday.

A person from the University of Kansas who provided information to police told investigators on Sept. 29 that Bowman was a poison specialist and answered calls about poisons, the complaint said.

Bowman worked as a poison specialist on Aug. 5, 6 and 10, according to the complaint.

The person told police Bowman was researching colchicine, a drug used to treat gout, the complaint said. Bowman had not received calls about colchicine, and no other employee received calls about the drug, the complaint said.

Betty Bowmans toxicology results showed colchicine was present in her blood and urine, which were taken when she was admitted to the hospital, according to the complaint. She did not have gout, nor was she given colchicine during her hospital stay leading up to her death, the complaint said.

The Medical Examiner determined the cause of death of Victim to be toxic effects of colchicine and the manner of death to be homicide, the complaint said.

Police with a warrant also searched Bowmans home and found a receipt for a $450,000 bank deposit, the complaint said.

According to Betty Bowmans obituary, she married her husband on May 30, 2021.

The couple lived in Rochester, Minnesota, where Betty worked as a diligent and capable hospital pharmacist while Connor went through Internal Medicine residency. Her kindness and intelligence was noticed and valued by friends and strangers alike, the obituary said.

Betty Bowmans mother and family told NBC News in a statement Tuesday night that she was a dedicated pharmacist who worked in the operating room pharmacy at the Mayo Clinic and was beloved by colleagues.

Co-workers continue to speak positively about her which speaks loudly to show how she carried her positive energy both in her personal and professional life, the statement said.

She was always there, a reliable pillar of strength and a listening ear during times of joy and sorrow. She showed us the true meaning of love-selfless, unconditional, and boundless.

Betty Bowman was also the owner of a corgi, a foodie and a world traveler whose top destinations were Iceland and Hawaii, the statement said.

Bettys love was boundless, and it extended far beyond the confines of family and friends. Her warm smile, kind words, and caring actions left an indelible mark on our hearts. Betty had a passion for life that was infectious. She lived life to the fullest, embracing each day with enthusiasm and joy, the statement said.

Court records show Bowmans unconditional bond was set Monday at $5 million. A $2 million bond was also set with conditions that he not use alcohol or drugs, be monitored by GPS and remain in Minnesota unless he has written court approval.

Bowman, who apparently had not posted bond, remained at the Olmsted County Adult Detention Center on Tuesday, according to jail records.

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
A 5-year-old boy was found dead in a dumpster less than a day after he went missing, Wisconsin authorities say.

Prince McCree was last seen alive at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, according to the Milwaukee Police Department.

As officers looked for Prince on Thursday morning, they found his body in a dumpster at 8:50 a.m., according to police and WISN. The dumpster where Prince was found is a mile away from where he was last seen.

Foul play is suspected in the boys death, police told TMJ and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Its a terrible tragedy for the whole community to see another child so senselessly lose their life and then to be discarded in the manner in which they found the child, Alderman Michael Murphy told the Journal Sentinel.

Two persons of interest  a 27-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy  were arrested Thursday, police said. Their relationships to Prince are unclear and their identities have not been publicly disclosed.

Police called the homicide investigation fluid and ongoing.

18-year-old mom threw baby in trash compactor and is charged with murder, AL cops say

Missing 15-year-old was suffocated with pillow and put in dumpster, Illinois cops say
A missing bear hunter was airlifted to the hospital after a 16-hour search and rescue mission in Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina officials said.

Rescuers received calls of a lost bear hunter and were dispatched to the Curtis Creek Campground in Old Fort at around 7 p.m. on Oct. 25, McDowell County Emergency Management said in an Oct. 26 news release.

The call set off an overnight search for the man, with more than 60 emergency personnel and hunters joining in to help, officials said.

Crews focused their search on the area between Curtis Creek and Mackeys Creek, according to emergency management.

The missing hunter was located but was hurt in a fall just northeast of Old Fort, and crews had to coordinate how to extract him from the woods, according to emergency services and the McDowell County Sheriffs Office.

Emergency Services Director Will Kehler told WLOS the hunter was seriously hurt.

Shortly after 11 a.m. on Oct. 26, a helicopter from the North Carolina National Guard airlifted the man from the forest floor in a technical rescue, according to a release from emergency management.

He was taken to a nearby landing zone, where he received another airlift to Mission Trauma Center in Asheville, officials said.

We are extremely grateful for all the assistance provided by local, state and federal agencies, along with the dedicated hunters who worked tirelessly to find their friend and assist emergency services, Kehler said in a statement.

McDowell County Emergency Management did not provide McClatchy News with more details on the rescue.

Pisgah National Forest consists of more than 500,000 acres of mile-high peaks, cascading waterfalls and heavily forested slopes, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

The forest is about 30 miles northeast of Asheville.

Crying in woods leads deer hunter to missing 2-year-old, SC cops say. Miraculous find

Missing hunter found dead after falling 40 feet from tree, Pennsylvania police say

Missing hunter found dead after falling 40 feet from tree, Pennsylvania police say

Woman gets lost walking her dog  and spends night in New Hampshire park, officials say
A 61-year-old man was found dead after he didnt return home from his hunting trip, according to police in Pennsylvania.

Kim Plasters reported her husband missing at about 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, and said he never came back home from archery deer hunting the night before, The News-Item reported.

Pennsylvania State Police troopers and state game wardens immediately began searching for Robert Plasters, of Paxinos.

But hours later, shortly before 2 p.m., the hunter was pronounced dead in a wooded area of Shamokin Township, The News-Item reported.

He had been found face down at the bottom of a tree after falling about 40 feet, authorities said in a news release. An autopsy was scheduled, though investigators consider his death an accident and do not suspect foul play.

Shamokin Township is about 130 miles northwest of Philadelphia and a few miles southwest of Paxinos.

10-year-old deer hunter shoots man in buttocks while unloading rifle, MN sheriff says

High schooler known as local hero is shot while hunting with friends, family says

Camper vanishes on solo trip, Arizona police say. Then hunters discover her SUV
Lauren Heath, a 16-year-old who went missing in Indian Trail on Oct. 13, was found safe in Missouri, Monroe Police Department announced on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2023. (WSOC)

An Indian Trail teen last seen leaving her home 12 days ago was found in Missouri, inside a registered sex offenders car, the Monroe Police Department said Thursday.

Missouri authorities found Lauren Heath, 16, with Christopher James Porter, 30, in a Lowes parking lot in Kirkwood, near the St. Louis metropolitan area.

Thats some 750 miles away from her home in North Carolina. She had her mothers phone number, and police helped contact her parents, according to a police news release.

I can barely talk, her father told WSOC before he boarded a plane to Missouri Wednesday night. My heart is beating out my chest just to know my babys been found, located safe.

Porter previously had been charged with numerous offenses in Missouri, Monroe police said, and he is expected to face more as the investigation continues.

Porter met Heath on an anonymous social messaging app and took advantage of comments she made about stress and wanting to run away, police said. Porter convinced her to run away, and drove from Oklahoma to Monroe to get her.

The familys Ring doorbell camera recorded Heath leaving her home with a backpack and tote bag around 4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 13, on the day she was reported missing, police said.

The Porter Ridge High School student had last been seen walking down Seefin Court toward Unionville-Indian Trail Road in Indian Trails Glendalough neighborhood, which is about 20 miles southeast of Charlotte.

Billboards with the teens face have populated interstate shoulders from Union County to Charlottes center city since she was reported missing.

The Monroe Police Department thanked the public and other departments that were tremendous and immeasurably helpful in finding Heath. Kirwood police found her using good old fashioned police work, said Police Chief J. Bryan Gilliard.

Gilliard asked the public to respect the familys privacy as they navigate a challenging recovery process.

Thankful for this school community that supports each other, her school posted on Facebook Wednesday evening. So very thankful tonight.
A missing teen from Indian Trail has been found and reunited with her family after being missing since Oct. 13, Monroe Police said.

She was seen on Ring doorbell camera leaving her Indian Trail home. Several billboards with her photos and description were up in the area for the last week.

Police told Channel 9 she was located in Kirkwood, Missouri, which is in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Thats about 750 miles from her home.

READ MORE: Parents of Union County teen found safe feel relieved, warning others

In a press conference Thursday, officials announced that the teen was found after police began investigating a suspicious vehicle in a Lowes parking lot.

Police said she was with 30-year-old Christopher James Porter, a man she had met on social media. Porter has been charged with second-degree statutory rape, second-degree statutory sodomy, sexual exploitation of a minor and possession of child pornography.

The teenager told the police that she told Porter that she wanted to run away due to stress, and he encouraged her to do so.

Porter is a convicted sex offender, according to the Monroe Police Department. They did not specify what he was convicted for.

SPECIAL REPORT>> Predators lurking online: How does the internet put children at risk?

Channel 9s Jonathan Lowe spoke to her father Wednesday night as he was about to board a plane to pick up his daughter.

Were just overwhelmed with joy, its just hard to explain the feelings that we have right now, I can barely talk, my heart is beating out my chest just to know my babys been found, located safe, thats the main thing, were just truly overjoyed, words cant express how we feel right now, he said.

The response from the public and the assistance from other agencies, law enforcement, public and private entities has been tremendous and immeasurably helpful during this investigation. Our detectives have worked tirelessly to get to this resolution, and I could not be more proud or pleased with their efforts, said Monroe Police Chief J. Bryan Gilliard.

The investigation is still open.

Editors note: In a previous version of this story, Channel 9 referred to the victims as children. However, the victims are teens.

(WATCH BELOW: Neighbors in Anson County upset over plans to expand landfill)
Two missionaries and a medical volunteer serving people in Kenya were killed in a tragic crash, according to a Michigan-based nonprofit organization.

Kenya Hope, a ministry that supports Kenyan widows and children, said its executive directors died in the Oct. 25 crash alongside the daughter of the organizations U.S. director.

The three were identified as Dave and Joy Mueller, who had worked with Kenya Hope for 13 years, and Julie Holman, who had recently passed the nurse practitioner board certification.

Dave and Joy will be remembered as missionaries who worked both faithfully and tirelessly to help others who were in need and spread the gospel of Christ, Eric Hoogstra, chairman of the Kenya Hope Board, said in a Facebook post. While they will be greatly missed by our organization, I know they have a place in heaven for a life well-served.

Holman was helping evaluate medical facilities and providing vaccinations with Kenya Hope, according to the post.

Holman and the Muellers were working with Child Refuge Centre International when their pickup truck collided with a tractor-trailer along the Narok-Maasai Mara Game Reserve Highway, according to Kenyas Citizen Digital. A police report obtained by the outlet said the three philanthropists  ages 61, 61 and 33  were driving to Naroosura at the time of the fatal crash.

McClatchy News reached out to the Narok County Government for more information on Oct. 26 and was awaiting a response.

Kenya Hope said funeral arrangements will be made at a later date.

Please join us in praying for both the Mueller and Holman families during this time of grief, the organization said.

Pastor killed after stopping to help man believed to have escaped from jail, cops say

Pastor killed in wrong-way crash driving to Palm Sunday service, Michigan officials say
Bettersten Wade had been searching for her missing adult son for seven months when she finally learned what happened to him. Just minutes after leaving home in March, 37-year-old Dexter Wade had been struck and killed by a police cruiser. Police didn't inform any family members about Dexter Wade's death, eventually burying him on the grounds of a penal farm.

On March 5, Dexter Wade left his mother's home in Jackson, Mississippi, following an argument the two had over a broken window in the house. After not hearing from him for days, Bettersten Wade reported him missing to the local police.

Bettersten Wade told NBC News that she had been hesitant to call Jackson police after an officer killed her brother in 2019an incident that resulted in the responsible officer being found guilty of manslaughter.

"My mama told me, 'They're not going to do anything,'" she told NBC. "But I had to do something to find Dexter, and I thought that was the best way."

According to NBC, Bettersten Wade did everything she could to help find her son. "Bettersten said she kept in regular touch with police, asking for updates and requesting that they put his picture on TV," wrote NBC's Jon Schuppe. "She did her own search, checking out abandoned homes and driving around her neighborhood asking if anyone had seen him." Despite repeated calls, police consistently told her they had no new information about her son.

But it turned out the police knew all along what had happened to Dexter Wade. He had been run over and killed by a police car, less than a mile from his mother's home and less than an hour after leaving.

According to legal documents provided to NBC, an investigator was able to identify Bettersten Wade as Dexter Wade's next of kin just three days after his death, on March 8. But the investigator only attempted to call her onceBettersten Wade, for her own part, says she does not recall receiving a phone call from the investigator.

Jackson police were tasked with continuing to contact Bettersten Wade to properly notify her of her son's death. They failed to do so. By the end of the month, NBC says that the coroner's office had filed documents requesting to bury Dexter Wade on the grounds of a penal farm, as no one had come to claim his body.

Despite Bettersten Wade's repeated attempts to find her son and frequent contact with police, she wasn't informed of his death until a new investigator was assigned to his case.

"They had me looking for him all that time, and they knew who he was," she told NBC.

While Bettersten Wade plans to have her son's body removed and properly buried, the ordeal is still devastating. Dexter Wade left behind two young daughters.

"The hardest thing I ever had to do is tell my girls that their dad is never coming back," the children's mother told NBC. "I just want someone to answer for what happened. I want to know what really happened."

According to NBC, Jackson police have not responded to questions about the circumstances of Dexter Wade's killing or why they refused to inform Bettersten Wade about her son's death. When contacted by Reason, the department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The post Mississippi Police Killed Her Son, Then Buried Him in a Pauper's Grave Without Telling Her appeared first on Reason.com.
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Hours after former Kansas City police detective Eric DeValkenaere was transferred from the Platte County Jail to the Missouri Department of Corrections in St. Joseph, a court denied his motion to reinstate an appeal bond, which means hell remain behind bars pending action from Jefferson City.

DeValkenaere is serving a six-year prison sentence for shooting and killing Cameron Lamb in 2019, a judge finding him guilty during a bench trial of involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action in 2021.

Missouri residents react to ex-KCPD detective DeValkenaere clemency application

He and his partner were called to Lambs neighborhood for a traffic incident near East 41st Street and College Avenue on Dec. 13, 2019. A police helicopter saw a red pickup, believed to have been involved in the incident, turn into Lambs garage. The two officers followed Lamb onto his property, and DeValkenaere admitted to shooting Lamb, but said he was protecting his partner.

DeValkenaere appealed his conviction, but the Missouri Court of Appeals upheld the judges ruling earlier this month, saying there was enough evidence to prove that he killed Lamb and acted with criminal negligence.

Thursdays ruling from Appeals Court Chief Judge Gary Witt cites Section 547, RSMo 2016:

In all cases where the conviction of a defendant is affirmed on appeal the defendant is to be imprisoned in any jail or by the department of corrections, the court affirming the appeal shall direct the sentence pronounced to be executed, and for this purpose the court shall order the marshal of the court to arrest the convict, and deliver him to the proper official. In its discretion the court may order the marshal to arrest the convict prior to the date the opinion of the court affirming the judgement in the cause is made public.

The motion to reinstate his appeal bond was being considered as Missouri Governor Mike Parson s office confirmed it received DeValkenaeres clemency application earlier this week.

The application urged the governor to pardon DeValkenaere, and the governors office says its received calls and requests from private citizens urging the same.

Lambs family, their legal team, and the Jackson County Prosecutors Office have all called for the governor not to pardon DeValkenaere.

The rule of law has spoken clearly on this matter through a Jackson County Grand Jury, three separate Circuit Court judges, three separate appeals court judges and the presiding judge of the Western District Court of Appeals, who signed the arrest warrant last week, Jackson County Prosecuting Attorney Jean Peters Baker said in a statement released earlier this week.

Basketball Wives star Brittish Cierrah Williams sentenced to prison

Lambs family attorney cited the judges decision that DeValkenaere violated Lambs 4th Amendment rights from unreasonable search and seizure.

Every judge that has looked at this case has said this man was guilty, the conviction was upheld. Hes got another shot at the Supreme Court, let the Supreme Court decide but dont jump in now and make that decision. Her husband is going to be home for her and her children after his prison term. Cameron Lamb is not coming back for his mom or his children, hes dead, attorney David Smith said.

Governor Parson hasnt made a decision on pardoning DeValkenaere, a spokesperson saying this case will get a thorough review before he comes to a conclusion.

Hours after DeValkenaeres appeal bond motion was denied, documents from his conviction were entered into the Black Archives of Mid-America.

Curators intend to make them available for future generations.

Hopefully, now, this will open up the doors for the future, and we wont have a lot of the problems that we face or the prosecutors face during this process, Lambs mother, Laurie Bey, said.

This is Kansas Citys first case involving a white officer being sent to prison for the shooting of an African-American. Lambs family members, and Jackson County prosecutors, took part in that afternoon ceremony.

That cant be understated what that means to people. I think it was talked about here how much it means to people to know what an office like this, what the government will do to make sure people are accountable, assistant prosecuting attorney Dion Sankar said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
The Missouri Court of Appeals has denied a request by a former Kansas City police detective to be released again on bond while appealing his conviction in the shooting death of a Black man.

Eric J. DeValkenaere, 44, whose conviction in the 2019 killing of Cameron Lamb was upheld by an appeals court last week, had filed paperwork to be released on bond pending another appeal, this time to the states highest court.

DeValkenaere, who is white, had been found guilty at trial in Jackson County in 2021 on charges of second-degree involuntary manslaughter and armed criminal action. He was sentenced to six years in prison.

In a rare decision by a Jackson County judge, DeValkenaere had been allowed to remain free on bond nearly two years while he appealed his conviction.

He surrendered to authorities at the Platte County jail on Oct. 17, the same day the court of appeals upheld his conviction.

DeValkenaere was transferred Wednesday to the Western Reception, Diagnostic and Correctional Center in St. Joseph.

In a motion filed Oct. 18, DeValkenaeres attorney, Jonathan Laurans, had asked that the former officer be released on bond while he sought to have the Missouri Supreme Court overturn the conviction. Laurans said DeValkenaere was not a flight risk, had no compliance issues and that the Missouri attorney general did not oppose reinstating the appeal bond.

Attorneys and legal experts told The Star freeing DeValkenaere on bond would rare and unprecedented.

On Tuesday, the family of DeValkenaere said they had filed a clemency request with Missouri Gov. Mike Parson .

Johnathan Shiflett, a spokesperson for Parson, confirmed the family attorneys submitted a request for clemency to Parsons office. The office has also received hundreds of additional calls and requests from private citizens on his behalf.

Shiflett said Parson had not made a decision.

A coalition of civil rights organizations across Missouri on Wednesday pleaded Parson not to grant clemency.
Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher on Thursday said he would absolutely not consider resigning after reports surfaced that he has been receiving government reimbursements over several years for expenses also paid for by his campaign.

The top Republicans aggressive stance comes amid a bevy of calls for his resignation, including from some top Republican lawmakers in the Missouri House. It also comes a day before the House Ethics Committee is scheduled to meet Friday for a hearing widely expected to focus on the embattled speaker, though lawmakers have released few details.

There were some errors made. We found the errors. We self-reported. We corrected. We made the reimbursements, Plocher said in an interview with This Week in Missouri Politics, a state politics livestream. Its embarrassing, you know. Its a checkbook error, but theres a lot of accounts bouncing around. Its quite tedious.

On at least nine occasions over the past five years, Plocher, who was first elected to the Missouri House in 2016 to represent suburban areas of St. Louis County, received reimbursements from the House for trip-related expenses also paid by his political campaign. The Missouri Independent first reported the expenses, which included a $1,199.60 plane ticket to attend a conference in Hawaii.

The revelations of Plochers reimbursements have started a new round of infighting among Missouri Republicans and risk dividing Republicans ahead of the 2024 legislative session.

State Rep. Chris Sander from Lone Jack, in an interview with The Star on Wednesday, was the first House Republican to publicly call for Plocher to resign. On Wednesday and Thursday, two other House Republicans, state Rep. Mazzie Boyd from Hamilton and state Rep. Doug Richey from Excelsior Springs also called for him to step down.

I want to be clear  Dean Plocher should resign as Speaker of the House for the good of the state and the Republican Caucus, Richey said in a statement on social media.

Other lawmakers have vouched for Plocher, including state Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican, who on Wednesday referred to the payments as much ado about nothing.

Copies of checks obtained through a records request show that Plocher last week started to pay back the House nearly $4,000 in money he received improperly.

In a letter attached to his most recent check, which he sent to House administration on Monday, Plocher wrote that he realized he had been reimbursed for a night at a hotel that he should have paid for personally. He immediately reimbursed the House, he said.

Because of this error, I reviewed all of my travel reimbursements, he wrote.

The House Ethics Committee, which reviews complaints against lawmakers and is made up of five Republicans and five Democrats, is scheduled to hold a hearing on Friday. The description of the hearing states that the committee will discuss a personnel inquiry  a phrase not included in the Missouri House rules.

The hearing description indicates that the committee may not be discussing a formal complaint, which is typically what it reviews. However, the U.S. House ethics rules, which are used as a guide for Missouri House ethics rules, allow for House members, officers or employees to request written opinions with respect to the propriety of any current or proposed conduct of such Member, officer, or employee.

Four committee members The Star reached by phone on Wednesday said they wouldnt know whats going to be discussed until the hearing happens. Still, state Rep. Jerome Barnes, a Raytown Democrat on the committee, suggested the hearing would be about Plocher.

Plocher on Thursday declined to comment on the focus of Fridays hearing.

The House Ethics Committee is an important committee. It has its procedures and policies. I believe theyre going to draw conclusions as they are required, he said.

In recent weeks, Plocher has also come under scrutiny over an unsuccessful push for the House to hire a company to manage constituent information and a decision to fire his chief of staff last week.

Several Missouri House speakers in the modern era have faced significant controversies, including Bob Griffin, a Democrat and the states longest-serving speaker who served from 1981 to 1996, who was indicted and later convicted on bribery charges. In 2015, then-Speaker John Diehl, a Republican, resigned from the post after The Star reported that he had been sending sexually-charged messages with an intern.

During Thursdays livestream interview, Plochers phone rang. The phone announced that the call was coming from Diehls number.

Sorry about that, Plocher said. I got a call coming in. I didnt mute that.
Across California, 30% of students are considered chronically absent, missing school by being absent, tardy or truant. The Modesto City Schools rate was at that same level, but the district has seen a marked improvement from last year.

Chronic absenteeism describes students who are absent 10%, or a minimum of 18 days, of the school year and are at risk of falling behind, according to the California Department of Education.

According to the latest data, released Oct 19, Modesto City Schools rate of chronic absenteeism is 17%.

The state Department of Education reported the chronic absentee rate at Modesto City high schools and elementary schools was around 30% during the 2022-23 school year. Across Stanislaus County, the rate hovered at 25% that same school year.

To continue to combat chronic absenteeism, MCS is participating in a countywide, yearlong attendance campaign called Every Day Counts to get students motivated to get back into their classrooms. The districts goal is to reach 96% attendance rate at all of their school sites.

This campaign, by the Stanislaus County of Education, utilizes multimedia, social media, billboards, and posters to reach students and parents and motivate them to get to their classes every day and on time.

Some administrators and teachers give trophies and prizes to students with perfect attendance. Others have their media production teams craft videos to promote perfect attendance.

Bret Harte Elementary Principal Marla Conteh said at her school she encourages her teachers to call families to work out how they can get their students in class on time.

We see a trend at our site where the youngest ones, the littlest ones, are the ones who exhibit the most anxiety and have the lowest attendance rate and the highest chronic absenteeism rate, Conteh said. Once they get to sixth grade, theyve pretty much learned the system and the expectations and we start to see improvement with their attendance rate with their ability to adapt to changes at school.

Though there are improvements, there continues to be concern with attendance as it can affect students future opportunities and grades.

What are the factors behind chronic absenteeism?

Aletha Harven, a psychology professor at Stanislaus State University, finds chronic absenteeism can be caused by a variety of factors such as students home lives or whats happening in the surrounding community.

She said students might have to wake themselves up, have to walk to school and get on campus without help, or take on leadership roles in their households such as caring for their younger siblings.

A lot of times, what I found is just whatever is happening in a students life, just tends to interfere with their schooling, Harven said.

Once the student comes to school after missing classes for so long, Harven said, it can greatly affect the students motivation to continue attending class, because theres a lot of makeup work. It can also cause students to be more disruptive in the class because theyre not really understanding whats going on.

Theyre lost when they are in the classroom, Harven said, and its more challenging for them to engage in the classroom discourse and the activities.

Here are the kids still most affected

Some demographics continue to have a higher rate of chronic absenteeism than the general population. Last school year, Black and Latino students in Modesto Citys high schools had the highest chronic absenteeism rates, with Black students at 37% rate and Latinos at 32%.

In Modesto Citys elementary schools that same year, Black and Pacific Islander students had the highest chronic absenteeism rates: Black students at 42%, Pacific Islanders at 38%.

In addition, students who are homeless, in foster families or have disabilities have higher rates of chronic absenteeism. In Modesto City high schools, homeless students had a rate of 73% last year, foster youth 46% and students with disabilities 43%.

The number one thing we push is building relationships. We want the students to feel welcome at school, said Nathan Schar, principal at Johansen High. So, I especially remind teachers every time, if a student hasnt been there a few weeks and they come in, be excited that they show up to class. Be excited that theyre there, and do everything you can to get them to learn.
BOISE, Idaho  A woman sentenced to life in an Idaho prison in the murders of her two youngest children and another woman could soon be taken to Arizona to face similar charges.

Lori Vallow Daybell was convicted in Idaho earlier this year of killing her two kids and conspiring to kill a woman she saw as a romantic rival. On Wednesday, an extradition warrant signed by Idaho Gov. Brad Little was delivered to other state officials, allowing Arizona officials to temporarily take custody of Vallow Daybell so she can face charges of conspiring to kill her estranged husband as well as her niece's ex-husband.

The complicated case began in 2019, when Vallow Daybell still lived in a Phoenix suburb with her children, 7-year-old Joshua JJ Vallow and then-16-year-old Tylee Ryan. She was estranged from her fourth husband, Charles Vallow, at the time, and he had written in divorce filings that she claimed to be a goddess sent to usher in the Biblical apocalypse.

Joshua Vallow, 7, and Tylee Ryan, 17, were last seen Sept. 23, 2019, in Rexburg, Idaho. Their mother, Lori Vallow, is the second wife of Chad Daybell.

Charles Vallow was shot and killed by Vallow Daybell's brother, Alex Cox, that summer. Cox told police he acted in self-defense, and he was never charged. Cox died later that year of what investigators said were natural causes.

Shortly after Charles Vallow died, Vallow Daybell and her kids moved to Idaho. Prosecutors said she made the move to be closer to her then-boyfriend, Chad Daybell, and that together the two plotted to remove any obstacle to their happiness.

Chad Daybell has also been charged in the murders of the two kids and his late wife. He has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial.

Over the next several weeks Vallow Daybell's two children disappeared and Chad Daybell's then-wife, Tammy Daybell, died of what was initially believed to be natural causes. But authorities became suspicious when Lori Vallow Daybell and Chad Daybell married just two weeks later, later determining Tammy Daybell had been asphyxiated.

Extended family members had also grown worried about the missing kids, and police launched a multi-state investigation looking for the children. Their bodies were later found buried in Chad Daybell's yard.

Lori Vallow Daybell: Who is the woman at the center of Netflix's 'Sins Of Our Mother'

Meanwhile, another person connected to the family reported an attempted shooting. Brandon Boudreaux, who had recently divorced Vallow Daybell's niece, said someone driving a Jeep had shot at him outside his home. The Jeep matched the description of one that had been purchased by Charles Vallow before his death.

The Arizona indictment charges Vallow Daybell with conspiring to kill Charles Vallow and Boudreaux.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Idaho mom convicted of killing kids will be sent to Arizona to face murder conspiracy charges
By Mica Rosenberg

(Reuters) - Lawmakers introduced a pair of Senate bills on Thursday to combat the rising number of child labor violations in the United States, one targeting companies with federal contracts that employ children for more scrutiny and another increasing reporting requirements to Congress.

A third bill, announced on Wednesday, seeks to improve protections for unaccompanied migrant children, including those who have ended up working in hazardous conditions in meatpacking plants and other factories.

U.S. Democratic Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey and Republican Josh Hawley from Missouri are sponsoring a bill that would require companies, and their contractors, competing for federal contracts to disclose child labor and worker safety infractions or face penalties.

It would also require the Labor Department to compile a list of companies ineligible for federal contracts based on "serious, repeated, or pervasive violations of child labor laws."

It builds on an earlier legislative effort spearheaded by Booker's office that was focused on companies contracting with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which is a major buyer of meat and other foods for the National School Lunch Program and other government programs.

The Labor Department said earlier this month that in the 2023 fiscal year, which ended on Sept. 30, 2023, investigations had found close to 5,800 kids illegally employed in the U.S., an 88% increase from 2019.

Another bipartisan Senate bill introduced on Thursday by Republican Marco Rubio from Florida, with Democrats Alex Padilla from California and John Hickenlooper from Colorado, and Republican Roger Marshall from Kansas, would require the Labor Department to report more details to lawmakers about the perpetrators and victims involved in child labor cases.

The bill would require detailed, annual reports that include the age of children involved and any injuries or deaths on the job.

"U.S. law needs to be strengthened to make sure these children are protected," Rubio said in a statement on Wednesday.

A February 2022 Reuters story exposed child labor at Alabama chicken plants, revealing how unaccompanied Central American migrants in debt to human smugglers were working grueling factory shifts. Later, in November, the Labor Department filed a complaint against cleaning company Packers Sanitation Services Inc. (PSSI) for employing dozens of kids cleaning meatpacking plants around the country, some of whom suffered chemical burns and other injuries.

Reuters reporting last year also found migrant children, some as young as 12, were manufacturing car parts at suppliers to Korean auto giants Hyundai and Kia and more media coverage of the issue has followed.

Reuters coverage detailed how companies can rely on subcontractors, such as temporary staffing agencies, to recruit kids sometimes using false identity documents showing they are older. News organizations have also uncovered how some migrant children, after crossing the U.S.-Mexico border alone, were released from federal custody and ended up working in dangerous conditions.

In a separate legislative effort announced Wednesday, a group of Democratic Senators, led by Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin from Illinois, introduced a bill to reform the government's care of unaccompanied migrant children.

Included in the proposal is a measure to increase access to visas for people who have been victims of crime or workers -- including children -- who have suffered or been witness to labor violations or cooperated with officials to investigate workplace abuse.

(Reporting by Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Joshua Schneyer and Kristina Cooke; Editing by Aurora Ellis and Jonathan Oatis)
WOBURN  Lawsuits are piling up against a rheumatologist who formerly worked at Framingham-based Charles River Medical Associates, as more women are accusing him of sexual misconduct.

The first lawsuit against Dr. Derrick Todd, who also practiced at Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital in Jamaica Plain, was filed last month. The woman, identified only as Jane Doe, filed her suit against Todd, Charles River Medical Associates and Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital.

The case is impounded, meaning elements of it are not available for public inspection, including the defendant's name and address.

Dr. Derrick Todd formerly worked at Charles River Associates on Union Avenue in Framingham.

Earlier: Doctor accused of abusing patients with 'unnecessary' fake exams

But according to a court document, Todd asked Doe "invasive questions about her sexual encounters and other personal matters with no relation to the medical care and treatment being provided for potential or actual rheumatological disorders, repeatedly offered pelvic exams and PAP smears despite the plaintiff having gynecological care through other physicians, repeatedly offered to act as her primary care physician despite multiple refusals of same, listed himself as her primary care physician in her medical records without permission or change in care, and indecently and sexually assaulted the plaintiff when he forced her to undergo full bilateral breast exams on multiple occasions under the guise of medical care despite no relation to rheumatological complaints."

Stacey Pietrowicz, an attorney with Boston-based Sugarman and Sugarman, P.C., who represents the woman who filed the first lawsuit, said in a statement previously sent to the Daily News that she is "not alone."

"This lawsuit will expose the facts surrounding the intimidation and sexual harassment of female patients, unnecessary and inappropriate breast and pelvic exams, sometimes during non-business hours, and other abuses he (Todd) committed," Pietrowicz said.

Pietrowicz said Todd temporarily gave up his medical license while he is being investigated by the Board of Registration in Medicine (BORIM) and others.

Class action filed against Todd and hospitals

Since the initial lawsuit, six others have been filed in Suffolk County Superior Court. Of those, one is a class action suit and all but one are malpractice lawsuits.

In one malpractice suit, filed on Oct. 19, a Brimfield woman alleges Todd performed a "medically unnecessary, unwarranted and non-indicated" pelvic and breast examination in May 2023 at Charles River Medical Associates. According to the court filings, "these examinations were conducted in a sexual and exploitative nature and accompanied by sexual commentary. Dr. Todd 'groomed' the plaintiff."

The Brimfield woman is suing Todd, Charles River Medical Associates, Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital on 10 counts. The counts include negligence, battery and a few counts of negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

$7.2M judgment: Framingham medical group appeals award in negligence case

Additionally, a class action lawsuit was filed against Todd, Charles River Medical Associates and Mass General Brigham hospitals. According to the complaint, Todd performed inappropriate pelvic, breast and rectal exams on patients dating back as far as 2011 and continuing through July 2023.

Andrew Meyer, of Lubin & Meyer, P.C., a Boston law firm specializing in medical malpractice, previously told the Daily News that his firm is moving forward with six cases, although calls keep coming in. Meyer said Todd allegedly performed gynecological exams on women despite his status as a rheumatologist  a doctor that treats musculoskeletal disease and autoimmune disorders.

"Patients should go with their gut if these things seem wrong," Meyer said. "It's important to report these kinds of behaviors because they may be entitled to compensation and it could protect other patients from this."

Doctor denies allegation, through lawyer

Anthony Abeln, an attorney with Boston-based Morrison Mahoney, LLP, who is representing Todd, wrote in an email to the Daily News that "due to privacy laws, Dr. Todd cannot comment on the care provided to any specific patient.

"However, over the course of his 20-year career in medicine, Dr. Todd has been recognized as a skilled and accomplished rheumatologist, internist and primary care physician. He has been fully cooperative with all investigations, including the Board of Registration in Medicine, and is confident that when all the facts are considered  or even litigated  these allegations will be proven to be without merit. All of that will take place in the appropriate forums and not in the context of a media frenzy or a rush to judgement."

'Real and independent voice': Nurses at Framingham hospital are pushing to unionize

Charles Morris, chief medical officer and senior vice president of medical affairs at Brigham and Womens Hospital, said in a statement to the Daily News that an investigation into Todd was launched after the hospital received two anonymous complaints. Todd was subsequently placed on administrative leave once the hospital learned more, and his contract was terminated after an initial investigation.

Another investigation is ongoing.

Charles River Medical Associates provides primary care physicians to residents throughout MetroWest. It has more than 30 locations spread throughout 11 communities, including Framingham, Holliston, Hudson, Marlborough, Millis, Natick, Northborough, Southborough, Sudbury, Wellesley and Westborough.

This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Ex-Framingham doctor facing more accusations of sexual misconduct
China to make CIIE high-standard, high-quality, high-level global trade fair

09:52, October 26, 2023 By Luo Shanshan ( People's Daily

The sixth China International Import Expo (CIIE) is scheduled to be held offline between Nov. 5 and 10 in Shanghai.

The event will be joined by guests from 154 countries, regions and international organizations. Over 3,400 exhibitors and 394,000 professional visitors have registered to attend the event, representing a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels. Hundreds executives of Global Fortune 500 companies and industry-leading enterprises are poised to attend the expo, exceeding the previous levels.

Photo shows the Pudong New Area in Shanghai. (People's Daily Online/Wang Gang)

The country exhibition of the sixth CIIE will comprehensively showcase the willingness of relevant parties to engage in open cooperation.

A total of 69 countries and three international organizations have confirmed their participation in the country exhibitions, of which 11 countries will make their debuts and 34 will participate in offline exhibitions for the first time. Honduras, Kazakhstan, Serbia, South Africa and Vietnam will serve as guest countries of honor.

The area of the China Pavilion this time will be expanded to 2,500 square meters, the largest it has been in the history of the CIIE.

The quality and efficiency of the Business Exhibition will be significantly improved. The Business Exhibition will cover an area of about 367,000 square meters, on which 289 Global Fortune 500 companies and industry-leading enterprises will showcase their products and services. Both figures outnumber the previous levels.

The biggest 15 names in the automobile industry, the world's 10 major industrial electrical companies, 10 medical equipment manufacturers, three mining giants, top four grain traders and top five shipping companies have confirmed plans to attend.

The Business Exhibition focuses on high-quality development and quality life. The exhibition areas dedicated to cutting-edge technologies such as low-carbon energy and artificial intelligence, as well as lifestyle and consumer products, will experience a growth of 30 percent in size. Over 400 new products, technologies, and services will be showcased in these areas.

Thirty-nine government trade groups established by local governments and relevant departments, as well as four industrial trade groups will join the exhibition. Together, they comprise over 750 sub-groups.

Vessels are docked at the Yangshan Deep Water Port in Shanghai. (People's Daily Online/Ji Haixin)

"We will engage in close cooperation with all relevant parties, and go all out to build a high-standard, high-quality and high-level global trade fair, so as to offer more market, investment and growth opportunities for parties attending the event, and build cohesion for joint development," said Sheng Qiuping, China's Vice Minister of Commerce.

As a platform promoting high-level opening up, the CIIE signals a strong voice for opening up. A batch of high-end equipment, green products and biological technologies are expected to be launched at the sixth CIIE, and Ecuador's yellow dragon fruit, Benin's pineapple will start entering the Chinese market via this event.

The CIIE is an international public good shared by the world. It fully demonstrates the true multilateralism upheld by China, as well as the country's vision to build a community with a shared future for mankind.

The Hongqiao International Economic Forum (Hongqiao Forum), centering on the core theme of "Global Openness" and the function of "International Public Goods," will continue releasing the World Openness Report 2023 and the World Openness Index, and keep serving as a platform of high-end dialogue and exchange for the international political, business and academic communities.

The Hongqiao Forum will host 22 sub-forums this year covering global hotspots such as green development, digital economy and intelligent technology. Over 300 big names from the international political, business and academic communities are expected to attend the forum and deliver speeches.

Hua Yuan, vice mayor of Shanghai, noted that Shanghai will accelerate its efforts to build itself into a hub for imported and exported commodities, and the number of "6+365" Permanent Exhibition and Trade Platforms of the CIIE has been expanded to 60. Shanghai is working to turn exhibitors into investors, and has introduced action plans to optimize its business environment for six years in a row.

According to Hua, the actual use of foreign capital of the metropolis jumped from $16.66 billion in 2018 to nearly $23.96 billion last year, with a five-year total hitting $101.3 billion, 20.5 percent higher than the last five-year period.

Photo taken on Oct. 21 shows a floral decoration outside the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), the main venue for the sixth China International Import Expo. (People's Daily Online/Yan Daming)

As the world's first import-themed national-level exhibition, the CIIE has become a major international platform for promoting the integration of the Chinese and global markets, fostering industrial integration, stimulating creativity, and facilitating mutual learning of rules and regulations.

The Ministry of Commerce will work with relevant departments to implement multiple measures to expand the imports of quality products and facilitate high-quality trade development, said Sheng.

China will keep strengthening policy support, ensuring stable operations at every stage of bulk commodity imports, and increasing the imports of energy resources and agricultural products.

The Ministry of Commerce, together with relevant departments, will revise a catalogue of encouraged technology and product imports to support enterprises in expanding imports of advanced technologies, essential equipment, and key components, promoting industrial restructuring and optimization.

China will keep releasing the potential of imports. This year, China has implemented provisional import tax rates for 1,020 commodities. In accordance with the effective free trade agreements and preferential trade arrangements, agreed tax rates are applied to certain imported goods originating from 29 countries or regions under 19 agreements, further reducing the level of tax rates. The positive role of cross-border e-commerce in retail imports is being leveraged to continue unlocking the potential of consumer goods imports.

China will keep enhancing exchanges at the CIIE. It will fully leveraging the role of major trade platforms such as the CIIE, amplify the spillover effects of various exhibitions, and facilitate the entry of more high-quality goods, technologies, and services into China. This will promote business exchanges and connections, and allow more enterprises to share the opportunities of the Chinese market.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Danilov commented on the possibility of negotiations with Russia

Many Russians are fighting on the side of Ukraine against the Putin regime and these are not isolated cases, National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) secretary Oleksiy Danilov said on national television on Oct. 26, commenting on the formation of the Sibir (Siberia) battalion in the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

"There are many representatives of the Russian Federation, Russian minorities who are categorically opposed to the Putin regime [] and they are helping us in this fight," he explained, adding that in the near future we will see "not just one such battalion."

"I can say that it exists in the ranks of the armed forces. This is something completely different, this is a completely different situation."

Read also: Putins plan for the rest of the war

Ukraines military has formed a battalion of soldiers made up entirely of Russian citizens who want to fight against President Vladimir Putins invasion, U.S. financial news outlets Bloomberg wrote on Oct. 24.

The Sibir (Siberia) battalion has brought together dozens of Russians and people from ethnic minorities in Russia who traveled via third countries because they wanted to join the Ukrainian army, according to officials at their training camp. Unlike volunteer groups such as the Freedom of Russia legion that have declared support for Ukraine, these soldiers are part of the regular Ukrainian army and expect to be sent into battle very soon.

Read also: Crimean "judge" faces charges for forced evictions of locals to Siberia

Ukrainian officials said they expect to attract more Russian citizens, particularly from the countrys minorities, to join the war against Putin. Those in the Sibir battalion underwent thorough security checks to verify they were supporters of Ukraine then signed a military contract, adopting army call signs to protect their identities, military officials stated.

All the members of the 60-strong battalion are volunteers, and none are recruited from among Russian prisoners of war, another official elaborated. The military plans to speed up background checks  which can take upwards of a year  in order to encourage more Russians to join their ranks, he said.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
MSNBCs Willie Geist on Thursday dismissed the idea that moderate Republicans didnt have enough time to vet election-denying Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) ahead of voting for him to become the new House speaker.

The idea that Johnsons election moved too quickly to examine his record doesnt pass the laugh test, said the  Morning Joe  co-anchor.

Because it wasnt moving quickly, Geist pointed out.

All you have to do is Google him to find that he was one of the architects and the leaders of the efforts, the attempt anyway, to overturn the 2020 election, he added.

Johnson strongly backed former President Donald Trumps efforts to reverse his 2020 loss to President Joe Biden. He is also a fierce opponent of LGBTQ+ rights and abortion.

Trump cheered MAGA Mike Johnson following his victory.

Earlier on Morning Joe, The Washington Posts Jacqueline Alemany described Johnsons election as a really remarkable turn of events given his lack of name recognition. She said one lawmaker said Republicans didnt have time to properly vet him.

Alemany also explained Rep. Ken Bucks (R-Colo.) justification for backing Johnson, when hed been staunchly against the Trump-endorsed Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) for his efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

Jordan was actively involved in encouraging the rioters to storm the U.S. Capitol whereas Johnson was involved in the lawyerly aspects of the fight and, therefore, it wasnt as harmful, Alemany said Buck reasoned.

Related...
A Morro Bay man could spend the rest of his life in prison for sexually assaulting children, according to the San Luis Obispo County District Attorneys Office.

A San Luis Obispo jury found Elderjairus Stomtomas Belen, 33, guilty of 11 felony counts of engaging in sex acts with a child under age 14, the agency said in a news release Wednesday.

According to the release, Belen sexually abused two children over a five-year period.

The abuse started in November 2013 when Belen was 23 and the children were under age 10, and continued until December 2018, when Belen was 28, the release said.

Both victims testified against Belen during the trial with the support of Edgar, the courthouse facility dog, according to the release. Edgars handlers are senior District Attorneys Office investigator Tim Murphy and Jennifer Love, assistant director of the San Luis Obispo County Victim Witness Assistance Program.

We thank the jury for their focused attention in this very sensitive and emotional case, San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow said in the release. The two young survivors demonstrated remarkable courage by reporting the crimes and testifying in the trial necessary to bring this predator to justice.

We are optimistic that this conviction will encourage victims of sexual assault to report the conduct to law enforcement.

Belen is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 1 at 8:30 a.m. in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the release said.

He faces a maximum sentence of 275 years to life in state prison.

The case was investigated by the Morro Bay Police Department with the aid of the District Attorneys Offices Bureau of Investigation, the release said. Deputy District Attorney Kimberly R. Dittrich of the Sexual Assault Prosecution Team prosecuted the case.
A fire broke out at a large thermal power plant in Moscow on Oct. 26, Russian power generating company Mosenergo reported.

The power station provides heat and electricity to industrial facilities and households in the city's northwest part with a population of over 1.5 million.

According to Mosenergo, one of the station's boilers caught fire at around 3:30 p.m. local time, and it was extinguished less than an hour later.

There were no casualties and energy cut-offs as a result of the fire, the company wrote, adding that the station's roof didn't collapse. The reasons for the incident are still being determined.

Read also: With winter approaching, is Ukraines energy system ready for renewed Russian attacks?

Russian Telegram channel Shot earlier published a video of the fire, claiming that the plant's reinforced concrete structures collapsed and three boilers caught fire.

Since the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, partisans have targeted military, logistics, and infrastructure sites inside Russia.

On Oct. 15, Ukrainian forces struck an energy facility in Russia's Belgorod Oblast supplying power to Russian military sites, a source in Ukraine's Security Service told the Kyiv Independent.

As winter approaches, Russia has escalated its assaults on Ukraine's vital infrastructure, and Kyiv has said it would strike back.

Read also: Ukrainian energy company on Russias attacks on infrastructure: No system in the world has faced the same

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Police are searching for two men who fled after Wednesday's attack on Moss Lane East

Two men are wanted by police after a man was stabbed to death in Manchester.

Officers are searching for the pair, who fled in a car after the attack in Moss Side at about 20:00 BST on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died a short time later.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said no arrests had been made as officers appealed for information.

The force said it was believed from initial inquiries that there had been a "disturbance" between the victim and his friend with two other men on Moss Lane East.

The two men fled the scene after the stabbing while the victim's friend stayed and called emergency services, GMP said.

Det Ch Insp Andy Naismith, from GMP, said: "I understand people will be concerned when they hear the news of what has happened, but I would like to reassure them that we do not believe this was a random attack.

"We have a number of additional resources deployed to identify those responsible."

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk
Ivanka Trump was a model, businesswoman, and socialite before Donald Trump entered politics.

She occasionally wore daring looks, such as an off-the-shoulder pantsuit, as a White House advisor.

She's worn bold gowns to events like the Met Gala and the Tribeca Film Festival.

Ivanka Trump announced that she would be stepping back from politics after Donald Trump launched his 2024 presidential bid, skipping the campaign launch event and saying in a statement that she would continue to support her father "outside the political arena."

With an appearance at Kim Kardashian's 43rd birthday party in Los Angeles in October, she seems to be returning to her pre-White House life as a socialite.

Here's a look back at some of Trump's most daring looks before, during, and after her time in politics.

Ivanka Trump attended the Met Gala for the first time in 2004 in a peach dress with butterfly-shaped lace cutouts.

Ivanka Trump at the Met Gala in 2004. Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

The theme of the Met Gala that year was "Dangerous Liaisons."

She wore a seafoam-green halter dress with a cutout to a 2005 charity event.

Ivanka Trump at Central Park Boathouse in 2005. Jimi Celeste/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

Ivanka Trump attended an event hosted by the Central Park Conservancy, a philanthropic group that supports the preservation of Central Park.

At the 2006 Met Gala, Trump wore a plunging brown chiffon gown with a satin bow.

Ivanka Trump at the 2006 Met Gala. Billy Farrell/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

The theme of the Met Gala was "AngloMania: Tradition and Transgression in British Fashion." She accessorized with gold shoes, a gold clutch, and assorted bangles.

At the red-carpet finale of season five of "The Apprentice," Trump wore a dress that appeared business casual in the front and featured an open back.

Ivanka Trump at the finale of season five of "The Apprentice" in 2006. Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic/Getty Images

Season five was Trump's first as a judge in the boardroom alongside her father. She continued to appear on the show until 2015.

She wore a green dress with sheer black sleeves and a deep scoop neckline to a film screening in 2006.

Ivanka Trump at the Tribeca Grand Screening Room in New York City in 2006. Rabbani and Solimene Photography/WireImage/Getty Images

She accessorized with dangling earrings and grey pumps.

Trump designed a fine-jewelry collection in 2007, and she wore a bold dress with feathers and an asymmetrical tie belt to its New York City launch.

Ivanka Trump at the launch of her fine jewelry collection in 2007. Eugene Gologursky/WireImage/Getty Images

Ivanka Trump Fine Jewelry folded in 2017 as her namesake brand shifted to more affordable prices.

The jewelry line also raised ethics concerns in 2017 after Trump wore a $10,000 bracelet from the collection in a "60 Minutes" interview and sent a "Style Alert" press release promoting the product. Trump released a statement saying that her company was "still making adjustments post-election."

Trump attended the 2012 White House Correspondents' Association Dinner in a sparkling beaded gown.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner at the 2012 White House Correspondents' Association Dinner. Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images

Trump wore an art deco-inspired gown designed by Naeem Khan to the event, which she attended with her husband, Jared Kushner.

She attended a gala at the Plaza Hotel in a backless dress in 2012.

Ivanka Trump at the Plaza Hotel in 2012. Craig Barritt/Getty Images

Trump was a guest at the Turkish Society Annual Dinner Gala. Her dress featured an olive-green bodice and two thin straps across the open back.

That same year, she wore a blush dress with a thigh-high slit.

Ivanka Trump at the European School Of Economics Foundation Vision And Reality Awards in 2012. Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for European School of Economics Foundation

She wore the dress to the European School Of Economics Foundation Vision And Reality Awards, an event she attended with her father and stepmother Melania . She carried a maroon clutch and wore tan peep-toe heels.

For the 2013 Met Gala, Trump embraced the "PUNK: Chaos to Couture" theme with a daring outfit by Juan Carlos Obando.

Ivanka Trump at the 2013 Met Gala. Stephen Lovekin/FilmMagic/Getty Images

The outfit's indigo top and ruffled skirt were separated by a chunky black belt. Trump accessorized with spiked gold jewelry, black strappy shoes, and dyed hair.

Trump wore a J. Mendel dress with a cutout and high slit to an event in 2015.

Ivanka Trump in 2015. Michael Stewart/WireImage/Getty Images

Trump attended the 2015 amfAR New York Gala at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City with her husband.

She attended the Tribeca Film Festival's Vanity Fair party in 2015 wearing an edgy David Koma minidress with side cutouts.

Ivanka Trump at the Tribeca Film Festival's Vanity Fair Party in 2015. Mark Sagliocco/WireImage/Getty Images

She paired the asymmetrical dress with a silver clutch and black stilettos.

The Pamella Roland dress Trump wore to the New York City Ballet Fall Gala in 2015 featured sheer panels across the front.

Ivanka Trump at the 2015 New York City Ballet Fall Gala. Mark Sagliocco/Getty Images

She told Vogue's Lilah Ramzi that her favorite part of the evening was appreciating "the fusion of fashion and dance."

Trump attended the "Celebrity Apprentice" season finale in 2015 in a Cushnie et Ochs cutout dress embellished with strings of pearls.

Ivanka Trump at the "Celebrity Apprentice" season finale in 2015. Jim Spellman/WireImage/Getty Images

The dress retailed for $1,197 at the time, The Daily Mail reported.

She wore a bedazzled Champagne-colored Carolina Herrera gown with illusion sleeves for President Donald Trump's Freedom Inaugural Ball in 2017.

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner on stage at the Freedom Inaugural Ball in 2017. Aaron P. Bernstein/Getty Images

After designers like Tom Ford and Sophie Theallet announced that they would not dress Melania Trump, Herrera told the AP in December 2016 that she didn't share that view.

"It is an honor to dress the first ladies of the country and it's something to do for the United States," she said. "It's not for myself. It's for the public."

In 2018, she wore a white off-the-shoulder pantsuit by Gabriela Hearst while in Argentina for the G20 Leaders' Summit.

President Donald Trump, Ivanka Trump, and first lady Melania Trump with Argentina's President Mauricio Macri and first lady Juliana Awada in Argentina in 2018. SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images

Hearst, the designer of the pantsuit, was an outspoken critic of the Trump administration. She told The Wall Street Journal in 2017, "If they want to wear the clothes, they can buy the clothes" when asked if she would dress Melania.

After leaving the White House, Trump wore an embellished black minidress to an event in Miami in 2022.

Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump attend a Carbone event in Miami Beach, Florida, in 2022. John Parra/Getty Images for Carbone Beach

Carbone, a New York City-based Italian restaurant frequented by celebrities, hosted a Carbone Beach supper club in Miami in 2022. Trump attended the event in a short black dress featuring a subtle cutout design and a large silver flower.

In October, Trump attended Kim Kardashian's birthday party in a white sequined crop top and matching skirt with a bold slit.

Ivanka Trump attends Kim Kardashian's birthday party in 2023. JB Lacroix/Contributor/Getty Images

She accessorized the shimmering look with turquoise earrings and blush Christian Louboutin heels, Footwear News reported.

Read the original article on Insider
Nearly 80% of Ukrainians say EU membership is important

Ukrainians overwhelmingly are in favor of joining the European Union, with a slim majority considering the issue very important, according to a new poll published by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) on Oct. 26.

77% of respondents polled support Ukraines membership bid for the EU, and 51% rated it as very important for Ukraine. At the same time, a total of 60% of respondents insist that Ukraine should stand up for its own interests even while pursuing EU membership  understanding that this might result in a delayed entry. Only 27% of respondents believe that Ukraine should meet all EU requirements as quickly as possible, in order to expedite the process.

Overall, Ukrainians are cautious in their assessment of the country's readiness for membership. Only 22% believe that Ukraine is fully prepared to join the EU, while 43% diplomatically suggest the need for reforms. And 25% believe that Ukraine is not ready.

Read also:

Some 73% of respondents receive information on a regular basis (at least once a week) about EU efforts to support Ukraine during the ongoing war. Although 75% acknowledge the usefulness of the assistance, only 34% consider it sufficient, while another 56% judge Brussels support for Ukraine to be insufficient.

The survey, commissioned by the EU Advisory Mission to Ukraine, was conducted through face-to-face interviews from Sept. 4 to 20. A total of 2,005 Ukrainians were interviewed in all regions except the Russian-occupied territories.

Read also: European Council president outlines conditions for Ukraine's potential EU membership by 2030

Ukraines path to EU membership: What we know

Just four days after the start of Russias full-scale invasion, on Feb. 28, 2022, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed an application for Ukraine to join the European Union.

On June 17, 2022, the European Commission recommended granting Ukraine EU candidate status and set seven conditions for the start of accession negotiations:

 Reforming the Constitutional Court

 Continuation of overall judicial reform

 Strengthening the fight against corruption, including appointing a new head for the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Offices (SAPO)

 Concrete steps to combat money laundering

 Implementing the so-called anti-oligarch laws

 Harmonization of audiovisual legislation with European legislation

 Amending legislation on national minorities

Read also: EU working on 12th sanctions package against Russia  report

At a summit on June 23, 2022, EU leaders supported granting candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova. The European Council called on the European Commission to report on the progress of candidate countries in meeting the conditions outlined in their membership applications, and pledged to decide on further steps as soon as all these conditions are fully met.

In early March 2023, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal announced that Ukraine had fulfilled all seven EU recommendations. According to him, Kyiv expects a political decision to start accession negotiations later this year.

European Commissioner Virginijus Sinkevicius declared on Aug. 21 that Ukraines progress towards meeting the conditions for EU accession is impressive. He added that the reforms already undertaken, particularly in the judicial system and media freedom, are crucial, almost fundamental, like the glue that binds the EU.

David Arakhamia, the leader of the Servant of the People parliamentary faction, claimed that Ukraine's parliament has passed 99.9% of the legislation required by the EU to begin accession negotiations.

Bloomberg, citing its own sources, reported that the European Commission would recommend starting substantive accession talks with Ukraine.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The mother of a six-year-old Palestinian-American boy who was stabbed to death in Chicago has asked that others pray for peace, following her release from hospital.

Hanaan Shahin, 32, was stabbed a dozen times in the vicious attack, allegedly carried out by her landlord Joseph Czuba. Her young son, Wadea Al-Fayoume, was fatally stabbed 26 times.

In her first remarks since her release from hospital over the weekend, Ms Shahin described her son as my best friend and said her speedy recovery was due to God hearing the prayers of people out there.

According to a statement update on her condition, released by CAIR-Chicago, Ms Shahin said she found solace in remembering Wadea as an angel on earth, and knowing that he is now an angel in heaven."

CAIR-Chicago Executive Director Ahmed Rehab said that he had met with Ms Shahin to assess her wellbeing and get a deeper understanding of what happened on the day of the incident. The pair also shared stories of Wadea, and how smart and funny the youngster was.

Mr Rehab said that her injuries were healing and that doctors were stunned by the speed of her recovery.

People gather at the funeral of Wadea Al-Fayoume (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Despite the painful loss and the trauma she experienced that morning, her spirit is strong and she is finding peace and answers in her faith in God, he wrote in a statement.

She said that she accepts that God chose them for this test  and that she finds solace in remembering Wadea as an angel on earth, and knowing that he is now an angel in heaven.

People mourn following the fatal stabbing of six-year-old Wadea Al-Fayoume (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

She said that she harbours no hatred, but believes in the pursuit of justice.

When asked if she had a public statement to convey, Ms Shahin had smiled and replied: Just Pray for peace, according to Mr Rehab.

Ms Shahin was due to take part in a press conference on Wednesday, which was later rescheduled. CAIR-Chicago said that a candlelit vigil to honour Wadea is due to take place on Sunday in suburban Oak Brook.

Last week, 71-year-old Mr Czuba appeared in court last week on charges of murder, attempted murder and hate crime. He is due back in court on 30 October.

Speaking at a news conference last week, one of Wadeas uncles said he believed Mr Czuba had become enraged due to coverage of the Israel-Hamas war, including claims that Israeli babies had been beheaded by Hamas fighters.
MPs have voted to suspend Peter Bone from the Commons for six weeks after an investigation found he had bullied and was sexually inappropriate around a former member of staff.

The move is likely to lead to a by-election in his Wellingborough constituency, a former Tory safe seat polling indicates could flip to Labour.

Parliament's behaviour watchdog found Mr Bone had exposed himself to an aide and physically struck him.

Mr Bone denies the charges.

The Conservative Party had already withdrawn the whip from the MP, meaning he will not be able to stand for re-election as a Tory candidate and he currently sits as an independent.

MPs voted in favour of suspending Mr Bone from parliament for six weeks.

The suspension had been recommend by Parliament's Independent Expert Panel (IEP)after it found Mr Bone broke sexual misconduct rules by indecently exposing himself to the staffer during an overseas trip.

The watchdog also upheld five allegations of bullying.

Labour's shadow leader of the House of Commons, Lucy Powell called for Mr Bone to resign.

She said: "The people of Wellingborough deserve an MP they can be proud of. The country deserves the change that only Labour can bring."

Philip Hollobone , Tory MP for Kettering, which neighbours Mr Bone's constituency, called the expulsion was "a very sad day" in Parliament.

"Peter has been an outstanding MP for 18 years, he has helped tens of thousands of local residents with difficulties they've had - that it should come to an end like this I think it is very sad for all concerned," Mr Hollobone said.

Asked about the possibility of a petition of Wellingborough constituents garnering enough signatures to launch a by-election, Mr Hollobone said "Peter Bone has been incredibly popular MP for a very long period of time."

If an MP is suspended for over 10 days due to misconduct, a recall petition is started. A by-election happens if at least 10% of local voters sign the petition.

Who is Peter Bone?

The 70-year-old has been active in Tory politics since the 1970s but did not make it to the Commons until 2005

A prominent Brexit-supporter, he campaigned with Nigel Farage in the 2016 referendum

Turned Wellingborough from an ultra-marginal into a safe Conservative seat, with an 18,540 majority at the 2019 election

A leading voice on the right of the Tory Party, he briefly served as deputy Commons leader under Boris Johnson

Was known for jokey references in Parliament to his wife Jenny as "Mrs Bone" - but the couple split in 2016 and he is reportedly in a new relationship

The prospect of another by-election creates a potential headache for Prime Minster Rishi Sunak - who has seen his inherited majority eroded by a string of by-election defeats in recent months.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden told Sky News "any by-election for a government that has been in power for 13 years is always going to be challenging".

But he said if one did take place in Wellingborough the Conservatives would "make our case very robustly".

At the last general election Mr Bone won a majority of 18,540 - which is smaller than the Tory majorities overturned by Labour in October in both Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire in 2019.

Mr Bone has held his seat for the Conservatives since 2005, growing his party's share of the vote.

In July 2022, then Prime Minister Boris Johnson appointed Mr Bone to the job of deputy Commons leader, which involves handling how complaints of bullying are dealt with. He was sacked from the role by Mr Johnson's successor Liz Truss.

Mr Bone's former assistant told the BBC the experience of working for him led to him being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder.

The ex-staffer said Mr Bone's "physical, emotional and psychological abuse" left him a "broken shell of the young man I once was".

The Conservative Party launched an investigation into Mr Bone's conduct in 2018, but the party says "the complainant withdrew from the process before the case was heard".

The IEP investigation was based on a complaint made to the body by a former member of staff, over alleged behaviour which took place more than 10 years ago.

Mr Bone appealed against the investigation's findings, arguing it had been flawed. However, his appeal was dismissed.
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A 23-year-old woman has been charged with especially aggravated robbery after police said she lured a man to a residence in North Memphis where three men attacked him.

Man accused of shooting at womans car with children inside

Investigators said the woman, identified as Chantal Williams, told the victim they were going to a house in the 600 block of Poplar Avenue to smoke crack cocaine, but when they got there, the victim was beaten, burned, and robbed.

Chantal Williams. Courtesy: Shelby County Sheriff's Office

Police have not said how the victim was burned but said he was transported to the Regional Medical Center with second-degree burns to his face, neck, and chest. They said the man also had severe lacerations to the top of his head.

The victim said the robbers took $150 and his Motorola phone worth about $75.

Security guard shot during bank robbery attempt in Frayser

Detectives said Williams admitted that she opened the door for the three suspects and let them inside her room.

It appears police are still looking for the three men.

Williams is being held on a $100,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Rep. Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, won the election to become the new Speaker of the House on Wednesday. The final vote was 220-209.

All 220 Republicans gave Johnson the leverage to surpass the 215-vote total that was required to win. All 209 Democrats voted for Rep. Hakeem Jeffries , the party's House leader.

Johnson was the first of four Republican nominees who secured support from within his party to win a majority of votes on the House floor.

He took the place of Rep. Tom Emmer, whose candidacy lasted less than five hours on Tuesday. Reps. Steve Scalise and Jim Jordan were the other two candidates, but they withdrew their names from consideration earlier in the process after garnering limited support from the party.

Rep. Mike Johnson

Rep. Johnson released a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating how the House Republican Conference is united and eager to work.

As Speaker, I will ensure the House delivers results and inspires change for the American people. We will restore trust in this body, Johnson continued. We will advance a comprehensive conservative policy agenda, combat the harmful policies of the Biden Administration, and support our allies abroad. And we will restore sanity to a government desperately in need of it. Lets get back to work.

What Mississippi's representatives are saying:

According to congressional voting records, all of Mississippis three Republican representatives voted for Johnson on the fourth and final day. During the first three days of voting, the state's Republican representatives voted for Jordan.

The state's Democratic representative, Bennie Thompson , consistently voted for Jeffries over the four-day period.

Trent Kelly, Rep. for MS First Congressional District: Republican

Kelly's office released a statement in support of Johnson becoming the new speaker of the house.

"Speaker Mike Johnson is a strong leader who has a proven track record as a conservative who will fight for the American people," the release stated. "Mike is a great man who is honest, hardworking and principled. I look forward to continuing to work with Mike to get this county back on track."

Bennie Thompson, Rep. for MS Second Congressional District: Democrat

Shortly after the announcement of Johnson's election, Thompson posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, to state his views on the final ruling.

After more than three weeks of dysfunction that left Congress paralyzed, House Republicans have followed former President Trumps orders and made MAGA extremist Mike Johnson Speaker of the House, Thompson wrote. Shame on them!

Michael Guest, Rep. for MS Third Congressional District: Republican

A statement from Guest's office on the new speaker vote was released demonstrating Guests approval of Johnson.

Speaker Johnson is a humble, godly man who loves this great nation and who shares our conservative values. Mike will provide leadership to the House as we pass conservative legislation, rein in out-of-control spending, secure our Southern border, and provide critical support for the state of Israel, the statement read. Republicans must work diligently to support our Speaker as he leads the fight to protect our morals and values. Im proud to have voted for Speaker Mike Johnson.

Mike Ezell, Rep. for MS Fourth Congressional District: Republican

Before the announcement of Johnsons election, Ezell took to social media stating his interest in the, at the time, Republican nominee.

He and I have a lot in common, including our shared faith and our strong conservative values. He has my full support, Ezell wrote on X.

Four hours later, Ezell came back to the platform extending his applause to Johnson.

Congratulations, my friend! Looking forward to getting back to work alongside you and our entire conference, the post read.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: ms representatives views on mike johnson becoming the new house speaker
OLATHE, Kan.  Four new tuberculosis cases have been linked to a Johnson County high school.

The Health Dept. has been offering tests at Olathe Northwest, where a student tested positive for tuberculosis this month.

Excelsior Springs officer okay after being exposed to toxic chemicals

We talked with a doctor at the Univ. of Kansas Health System about what this means for the community.

The Johnson County Health Dept. said four more people have tested positive for tuberculosis, also noting, those people are asymptomatic.

Earlier this month, health leaders identified a case of active tuberculosis in an Olathe Northwest High School student.

The Health Dept. began offering tuberculosis testing for the school.

Of 425 initial contacts, more than 270 people have been tested so far, and four tested positive, according to the health department.

The health department said those people are not showing symptoms, and theyve been referred for follow-up evaluations.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson said there are two major types of tuberculosis: active and latent.

Those people with latent tuberculosis, they dont have active symptoms. At that point, they are not contagious to anyone else, Hawkinson said. So, people around them, dont have to worry. That person doesnt have to worry that theyre getting anyone around them sick.

Hawkinson said active tuberculosis form is contagious, but not as contagious as other common illnesses.

In general, tuberculosis, even when you are around someone with active disease, is not as contagious as say something as influenza, other cough and cold viruses, COVID-19, Hawkinson said. It does take time that you need to be around that person.

The health department said the student who had active tuberculosis form was complying with isolation precautions and was receiving medication for the illness.

Gameday in the dark: Power outage will hit entire town during Chiefs game

Hawkinson said Latent tuberculosis can turn into active tuberculosis if its not treated. So, its important to follow up with a doctor and get on the right medication.

The school will have a second round of testing on Nov. 14, according to the health department.

Once all the results have been processed, the health department will release more information.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  A mural of the first Black Medal of Honor recipient will be unveiled November 11 at the northeast Oklahoma City park named after him.

Captain Riley Leroy Pitts, born in Fallis, Oklahoma, posthumously received the Congressional Medal of Honor in 1968  making him the first Black American officer to receive the nations highest military decoration.

Capt. Pitts was a career soldier in the US Army, assigned to Company C, 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 25th Infantry Division, according to the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame.

He was killed Oct. 31, 1967, near Ap Dong, Vietnam, just one month before he was to be rotated back home.

OKC new contender in arena of great southern cities

Distinguishing himself by exceptional heroism while serving as company commander during an airmobile assault. Immediately after his company landed in the area, several Viet Cong opened fire with automatic weapons. Despite the enemy fire, Capt. Pitts forcefully led an assault which overran the enemy positions. Shortly thereafter, Capt. Pitts was ordered to move his unit to the north to reinforce another company heavily engaged against a strong enemy force. As Capt. Pitts company moved forward to engage the enemy, intense fire was received from three directions, including fire from four enemy bunkers, two of which were within 15 meters of Capt. Pitts position. The severity of the incoming fire prevented Capt. Pitts from maneuvering his company. His rifle fire proving ineffective against the enemy due to the dense jungle foliage, he picked up an M-79 grenade launcher and began pinpointing the targets. Seizing a Chinese Communist grenade which had been taken from a captured Viet Congs web gear, Capt. Pitts lobbed the grenade at a bunker to his front, but it hit the dense jungle foliage and rebounded. Without hesitation, Capt. Pitts threw himself on top of the grenade which, fortunately, failed to explode. Capt. Pitts then directed the repositioning of the company to permit friendly artillery to be fired. Upon completion of the artillery fire mission, Capt. Pitts again led his men toward the enemy positions, personally killing at least one more Viet Cong. The jungle growth still prevented effective fire to be placed on the enemy bunkers. Capt. Pitts, displaying complete disregard for his life and personal safety, quickly moved to a position which permitted him to place effective fire on the enemy. He maintained a continuous fire, pinpointing the enemys fortified positions, while at the same time directing and urging his men forward, until he was mortally wounded. Capt. Pitts conspicuous gallantry, extraordinary heroism, and intrepidity at the cost of his life, above and beyond the call of duty, are in the highest traditions of the U.S. Army and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the Armed Forces of his country. Congressional Medal of Honor citation for Capt. Riley Leroy Pitts

President Lyndon B. Johnson presented the medal to Pitts widow, Eula, and his son and daughter at the White House on December 10, 1968.

He was a brave man, and leader of men. No greater thing could be said of any man. His valor under fire moved him forever into that select company where the heroes of our history stand, said President Johnson. His sacrifice was for us all. His countrymen, and all who live in freedom, will be indebted to him for all of freedoms days.

Ft. Sill battalions and batteries set to deploy to Middle East

Pitts Park was named after the Captain by city proclamation in 1975. Now, the park will be home to a mural of the distinguished soldier.

An unveiling ceremony will be held Saturday, Nov. 11 from 2-4 p.m. at Pitts Park, 1920 N Kate Ave. OKC, OK 73111.

There will also be food trucks, music and even more art at the event.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
The three giant pandas at the Smithsonians National Zoo are set to depart for China by mid-Novemberbefore the zoos current lease with the animals is set to end, the Washington Post reported. The pandasTian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their son, three-year-old Xiao Qi Jiwill be FedExed via cargo plane back to China ahead of the Dec. 7 expiry of the current agreement between the country and zoo. On the journey with them will be around 300 pounds of bamboo. It marks the end of D.C.s 23-year-long stretch with the giant pandas. I think about it almost like them going to college, zoo director Brandie Smith said. You know its going to happen. Its about to happen. You prepare for it for so long. But on the day that it actually does happen, youre just, like, a bawling mess.

Read it at The Washington Post

Read more at The Daily Beast.
NBC News has selected Lester Holt and Kristen Welker to serve as co-moderators for the third Republican presidential primary debate, which will take place next month in Miami, the network said Wednesday evening.

The Nov. 8 debate, which will span two hours and begin at 8 p.m., is not expected to feature the Republican partys front-runner for the nomination: Former President Trump.

Trump has so far refused to participate in the traditional candidate forums of the current cycle, skipping the first two GOP debates hosted by Fox News and Fox Business, respectively, citing his double-digit polling lead.

Holt, the face of  NBC Nightly News , has for several years been the networks go-to anchor for prime-time political coverage, including presidential debates, party conventions and election nights.

Welker succeeded Chuck Todd and as the 13th moderator of Meet the Press. She is only the second woman to hold the position in the programs long history and the first journalist of color to moderate it. Welker scored a wide-ranging interview with Trump last month that aired as part of her first broadcast at the helm.

Both Holt and Welker have experience moderating presidential debates and town halls during previous election cycles.

Holt most recently co-moderated the first presidential primary debate of the 2020 cycle from Miami in June 2019 and then served as a moderator for a debate NBC hosted from Las Vegas in February 2020.

Welker was a co-moderator for the final presidential debate between Trump and President Biden in October 2020 in Nashville.

Holt and Welker will be joined at the moderator table next month by conservative pundit Hugh Hewitt, host of The Hugh Hewitt Show on Salem Radio Network, which is partnering with NBC on the third debate along with the Republican Jewish Coalition and conservative streamer Rumble.

So far, only four candidates have qualified for the Nov. 8 forum: Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, according to a recent New York Times tally.

Candidates have until Nov. 6 to meet the fundraising and polling requirements to qualify.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
North Carolina Republicans have approved new maps that could flip multiple House seats in their favor, drawing immediate ire from state Democrats.

The GOP-led state General Assembly passed maps Wednesday that alter the lines for North Carolinas 14 U.S. House seats, changes that could give Republicans a leg up in defending their House majority in 2024.

North Carolina Republicans have just enacted one of the most gerrymandered maps in the country, the National Democratic Redistricting Committee said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

NC is a 50/50 state  but you wouldnt know that from looking at the new maps  which cement an illegitimate advantage for the GOP. Its shameful & undemocratic.

The Tar Heel States congressional delegation is an even split between Democrats and Republicans in the House, but the new maps could help give Republicans the majority of the 14 seats.

Former Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.) announced Wednesday that hed end his bid for governor to make a run to represent North Carolinas 6th Congressional District after the new maps were approved.

Rep. Jeff Jackson (D-N.C.) called the maps a brutal gerrymander when they were unveiled last week. Just being honest: Im probably toast in Congress.

The North Carolina Supreme Court had previously struck down GOP-drawn maps, contending they went against the state constitutions barring of extensive partisan gerrymandering.

In April, the North Carolina Supreme Court overruled the previous decision, finding that claims of partisan gerrymandering are political questions that cannot be resolved by the states courts.

Under North Carolina law, the new maps arent subject to a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. However, they are likely to be the subject of lawsuits filed in the weeks ahead.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Newly obtained documents show Johnston County school board member Michelle Antoine was accused by investigators of violating board policy by making unsupported accusations that a teacher was called Ms. Drunky.

Last month, the school board released a heavily redacted report from its attorneys on the investigation of a grievance that a teacher had filed again another teacher and Antoine. The teacher who filed the grievance, Angela Barbour, provided The News & Observer a copy of the report, which provides additional details of why investigators accused Antoine of not upholding the integrity of her office.

I have been holding onto these to protect my family and my livelihood as an educator, but at some point, these individuals need to be held accountable for their actions, Barbour said in a text message.

Antoine had initially filed a lawsuit to try to block the district from releasing its report last month. Before voluntariliy dismissing the lawsuit, Antoines attorneys said releasing the report would irreparably harm her.

Antoine referred questions Thursday to her attorney, Steven Walker.

We have no comment on what appears to be confidential records, based upon your description, Walker said Thursday in an email response to the N&O.

Antoine has denied that she violated board policy and accused the school board of holding a kangaroo court proceeding against her.

The school board said it would let Antoine file a written affidavit, under oath, to respond to the report.

Michelle Antoine is a Republican candidate running in the nonpartisan race for the Johnston County Board of Education.

Connections with board member Ronald Johnson

Barbour is at the center of the ongoing criminal case and federal lawsuit involving indicted school board member Ronald Johnson.

According to the indictment, Johnson is accused of asking Barbour to record a political candidate or have sex with the candidate. The indictment says Johnson threatened to release a recording of the candidate unless the person pressured Barbour to recant that she had an affair with Johnson.

Barbour is among the parties Johnson is suing in a federal lawsuit over his indictment and firing from the Smithfield Police Department. In the lawsuit, Johnson, who is married, accused Barbour of coercing him into having a sexual relationship with her.

Johnson nearly came to blows with school board vice chair Terry Tippett when the report on Antoine was released last month. Antoine and Johnson are political allies.

Johnston County school board vice Terry Tippett (right) argues with board member Ronald Johnson (off screen) during Sept. 25, 2023 meeting to hear report on an employee grievance filed against board member Michelle Antoine. Beside Tippett is school board chair Lyn Andrews.

Teachers file grievances against each other

According to the investigative report, Barbour filed a grievance on May 9 accusing Antoine and a teacher of inappropriate and unprofessional collaboration in the filing of several allegedly false grievances against Barbour during the 2022-23 school year.

The previously released report didnt include the names of the two teachers because the district said it contained confidential personnel information. Barbour redacted the name of the other teacher in the copy of the investigative report she provided to The N&O.

Barbour had accused the other teacher of filing the grievances in retaliation against Barbours decision to speak out publicly against Johnson. The investigation found no direct evidence to support that the grievances were in retaliation for Barbour speaking out against Johnson.

Investigators also said theres insufficient evidence to support the allegation that Antoine and the other teacher worked together on the grievances against Barbour.

Board member called teacher Ms. Drunky

But investigators did find evidence that led them to accuse Antoine and the other teacher of violating board policy and the code of ethics for North Carolina teachers.

Both the teacher and Antoine accused Barbour of being known around McGees Crossroads Middle School as Ms. Drunky. The teacher sent school board member Kevin Donovan a text last November accusing Barbour of having no ethics and saying that kids called her Miss Drunky.

After the teacher filed one of her grievances against Barbour, Antoine sent that teacher en email on March 9. Antoine copied Superintendent Eric Bracy on the email in which she asked Bracy to take action to mitigate any further disruption by Ms. Barbour.

I personally witnessed her drinking in excess, driving while intoxicated, and going to teach school hungover  likely still intoxicated, Antoine wrote in her email. Staff in her building relayed the students call her Ms. Drunky.

Barbour called Antoines statements in the email completely false and political retaliation.

Shes never even been in my vehicle while I was driving, Barbour said in a text message. Shes definitely never witnessed me going to work while intoxicated or hungover because thats never happened in my career.

Shes telling all lies to attempt to harm my reputation because I spoke out about her not being the best candidate for our board of education.

Report finds Ms. Drunky accusation false

The report said the other teacher told investigators that many of the students at the middle school called Barbour Ms. Drunky and that its an ongoing lunch conversation. The teacher said shed attempt to provide investigators with the names of individuals who could support her claim, but the report says she never gave them.

Investigators said Antoine told them that she knew of more than one middle school employee who refers to Barbour as Ms. Drunky. But the report says Antoine refused to provide the investigators with names.

Investigators said administrators at the school told them they never heard anyone  staff, students, or families  refer to Barbour as Ms. Drunky.

There is sufficient evidence to support Ms. Barbours claim that the allegation that students at McGees Middle School refer to her as Ms. Drunky is false, the report says. There is sufficient evidence to support Ms. Barbours claim that she was disparaged when Ms. Antoine told investigators , other JCPS employees, and Board members that she was referred to as Ms. Drunky.

Board member made unsupported accusations

In the end, investigators said Barbours interactions with the other teacher did not amount to a violation of district policy by Barbour

The report goes on to say the teacher violated the North Carolina Code of Ethics for Professional Educators by telling a board member and district investigators that Barbour was known as Ms. Drunky without offering any evidence to support the allegation.

The teachers statements were disparaging, disrespectful, and unfair to Ms. Barbour and potentially harmful to her career with Johnston County Public Schools, the report says.

Investigators said the teacher also violated the Code of Ethics by going directly to board members and the superintendent instead of filing a grievance with the head of Human Resources.

The district report accused Antoine of violating board policy because she was not completely honest with investigators when asked if she had ever accessed or viewed the teachers grievances.

Investigators said Antoine violated policy by taking individual action as a board member when she made unsupported and disparaging comments about Barbour in her March 9 email.

Ms. Antoine failed to uphold the integrity and the independence of her office and failed to avoid impropriety in the exercise of her duties as a member of the Board when she shared inflammatory, confidential personnel information about Ms. Barbour with three JCPS employees on March 9, 2023, the report says.
During their October 7 attacks, Hamas militants also seized more than 220 hostages, who are still being held inside Gaza (AHMAD GHARABLI)

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday that Israel is readying a ground war in Gaza, pressing ahead with plans that have troubled allies and threaten to worsen an already cascading humanitarian crisis.

Facing ever-louder international calls to temper Israel's ferocious 19-day bombing campaign in the Hamas-controlled territory, Netanyahu delivered a nationally televised address.

He told fellow Israelis still grieving and angry after Hamas's bloody attacks: "We are in the midst of a campaign for our existence", while insisting Israel will decide how the war is prosecuted.

On October 7, throngs of Hamas gunmen poured from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 more, according to official tallies.

US President Joe Biden is among the foreign leaders stepping up public calls for Israel to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas targets.

Thousands of Gazans are already believed to have died in Israel's aerial assault, with the toll expected to rise substantially if tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed around Gaza move in.

Biden on Wednesday said he had privately suggested Israel should get hostages out if possible before any ground invasion.

"It's their decision, but I did not demand it", Biden said, as he called on Congress to allocate more money for Israeli defence.

Speaking in Cairo, French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "A massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error."

But boasting of "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists", Netanyahu said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home."

"I will not detail when, how or how many," he said.

- 'It's a massacre' -

Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry puts the number of Palestinian deaths at 6,500, including many children and 700 people killed in a single 24-hour window this week.

AFP could not independently verify the ministry's claims, and US President Biden has stated he has "no confidence" in the Hamas ministry figures.

While the exact toll from the war in Gaza is unclear, the depth of the suffering is not in question.

Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, overflowing hospitals carry out procedures without anaesthetic, and residents have been forced to use ice cream trucks as makeshift morgues.

"They're not waging war on Hamas, they're waging war on children," raged Abu Ali Zaarab, after his family home was bombed in the southern town of Rafah. "It's a massacre."

About 1.4 million people -- more than half the population -- have been displaced, according to the United Nations.

The UN says 12 of the territory's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel, and a key UN aid agency serving almost 600,000 Palestinians "began to significantly reduce its operations."

Israel has cut off Gaza's normal supply corridors for water, food and other necessities, and fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory since the war began.

None contained fuel, which Israel fears Hamas will use for rockets and explosives.

Aid agencies have warned that more people will die if medical equipment, water desalination plants and ambulances stop operating because of a lack of fuel.

Once the generators stop, hospitals will "turn into morgues", the Red Cross has warned. Hospitals are also struggling with a shortage of medicines and equipment.

"There's not enough anaesthetic," said Ahmad Abdul Hadi, an orthopaedic surgeon working at Nasser hospital in Khan Yunis.

"The wounded are in severe pain but we can't wait for the procedure, so we're forced to do the operation. We performed a number of surgeries without anaesthetic. It's tough and painful, but with the lack of resources, what can we do?"

- A regional 'explosion' -

The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies.

Since October 7, Israel has launched thousands of reprisal strikes in Gaza, but it has also hit targets in Lebanon and Syria.

Late Wednesday, Lebanon-based Hezbollah fired what Israel said was a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli drone.

Israel's military said it had intercepted the missile and "struck the source of the launch" in retaliation.

Hamas, Hezbollah and Syria's government are backed by Iran, which denies Israel's right to exist.

Tehran's top diplomat on Wednesday accused Israel of carrying out "genocide" in Gaza.

Jordan's King Abdullah became the latest leader to warn that ongoing violence could "lead to an explosion" in the region.

His wife Queen Rania accused Western leaders of a "glaring double standard" for not condemning Israel's killing of Palestinian civilians in its bombardment of Gaza.

Violence has also risen sharply in the occupied West Bank, where health officials said more than 100 Palestinians had been killed, mostly in raids by Israeli troops or in clashes with Israeli settlers.

burs-arb/cwl
TEL AVIV  For most world leaders, the simultaneous crises encircling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would feel like the walls closing in. But Bibi, a political Houdini who has survived numerous political predicaments, has many wondering whether he has more tricks left up his sleeve.

He has been notably absent from public view in the nearly three weeks since the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks, with the Netanyahu-shaped hole made even more apparent by his military chiefs giving daily news conferences. Meanwhile, he has been condemned by some families of the roughly 220 hostages, and even the U.S., a close ally, has called for what it calls a pause in the bombing of Gaza amid a mounting civilian death toll. Finally, polling suggests most Israelis think he should resign.

Netanyahu wasnt particularly popular before Oct. 7 and is now widely unpopular, including among his own supporters, said Michael A. Horowitz, a Jerusalem-based analyst who is the head of intelligence at Le Beck International, a risk-management consultancy focused on the Middle East.

But, Horowitz added, he has also been called dead, politically, more than once and still came back, in the purest tradition of the promised land.

riends and family pay their respects at the joint funerals of Dana and Carmel Becher (Leon Neal / Getty Images)

In a warning to anyone writing off Netanyahu just yet, Horowitz described him as Israels real-life Frank Underwood, the ruthless House of Cards protagonist who rides countless crises to stay in power.

Netanyahu was already facing spiraling setbacks before what many consider the worst day in Israels history.

He is on trial in connection with an array of charges, including bribery, fraud and breach of trust, which he denies. After the latest in a series of elections and collapsed coalitions, his most recent Cabinet, which features a cast of ultranationalist and ultrareligious firebrands, is the most hard-right government in Israels history. He has also faced some of the biggest protests in Israeli history over judicial reforms that critics say would concentrate too much power in the governments hands.

While atrocities such as the Hamas attacks sometimes produce a rally-round-the-flag effect for those in power, there has been no such boon for Netanyahu.

A poll conducted days after the attack found almost all respondents, 94%, believe the government must share some of the blame for Hamas unprecedented land, sea and air assault on Israel, which killed around 1,400 people. A huge majority, 86%, said the attack was a failure of the countrys leadership, and 56% said Netanyahu must resign after the war.

A string of top Israeli officials have accepted responsibility, from the head of the Shin Bet security agency, Ronen Bar, to former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, who was not even in power at the time but still said he was partly to blame for the litany of failures that allowed more than 1,000 terrorists to break out of Gaza and attack civilians for hours.

But so far Netanyahu has not acknowledged any failings.

On Wednesday, he promised in a nationwide address that the attacks will be fully investigated but did not accept responsibility.

Everyone will have to give answers  me, too, he said. But all this will happen only after the war.

Posters identifying the Israeli hostages held by Palestinian militants (Ahmad Gharabli / AFP - Getty Images)

For critics of Netanyahu, it all aligns with their charge that he is more interested in his own political survival than in stewarding his country out of trouble.

Netanyahu is seen as working towards his political survival, rather than engaging effectively with the distressed public and taking responsibility, said Nimrod Goren, a senior fellow for Israeli affairs at the Washington-based Middle East Institute, the oldest think tank focusing on the region.

It is a culmination of multiple failures of his, spread out over multiple years and multiple issues, he said, adding that the conflict should mark the end of Netanyahus political career.

Asked whether that could, indeed, be the case, a lawmaker in Netanyahus Likud party, Amichai Chikli, said that while he recognized the need to accept responsibility, now was not the time for politics.

For me, its obvious the government is responsible, Chikli, who is minister for diaspora affairs and combating antisemitism in Netanyahus government, said in an interview. The mission of any state is to provide security first and foremost for its citizens, and its clear that on Oct. 7 we did not provide that security, not us, not the military and not the intelligence services.

But now we need all our energy for winning the war and not to return to the political fighting that we know how to do very well, he said. It will be easy to go back to the regular disagreements and accusations and the political mess that we are used to. But at the moment, we just dont have the luxury.

The attack is particularly damaging for Netanyahu because it exposes a weakness in his main political selling point. During his two-decade career, he has sold himself to the electorate as Mr. Security, the man capable of protecting Israel in a sea of enemies, including keeping Hamas in check.

He has been a remarkably successful politician, having governed Israel for more than 15 years in three stints across six administrations. But the conflict of the past 2 weeks has led to a thorough re-examination of his tenure.

One detail that has gained more attention is that Netanyahu has for years approved sending suitcases of cash to Gaza from Qatar, the Persian Gulf kingdom that pays Palestinian officials salaries and hosts some of Hamas leadership.

Publicly Netanyahu defended those payments as a way to keep the peace. But at a Likud meeting in 2019, he said the money was actually intended to keep Hamas from becoming swallowed up by the Palestinian Authority, which exercises weak control over the West Bank, and thus prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state, a quote widely reported by Israeli media, including the newspaper Haaretz.

Now, he is caught between his promise to eradicate those Hamas militants, which will most likely require a dangerous and painful ground offensive, and pressure to ensure the safe return of the hostages. Those goals may be mutually exclusive.

Michael Stephens, a senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, a nonprofit think tank based in Philadelphia, is categorical about his future.

I dont see how Netanyahu survives, he said. Bibi has used up his nine lives.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Neuschwanstein Castle is one of Germany's most popular tourist attractions

A US man has been charged with murder, rape and attempted murder over a deadly June attack against two American women near Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.

The 31-year-old suspect - who has not been publicly named - faces life in prison if convicted.

Prosecutors say he lured the women, aged 21 and 22, off the trail before sexually attacking the younger one.

A scuffle ensured when her friend tried to help, and both women were later pushed into a deep ravine.

The 21-year-old died of her injuries, but her older friend survived.

Neuschwanstein Castle - in Germany's southern Bavaria state - is one of the country's most popular tourist attractions. More than 1.3 million people visit the site on the foothills of the Alps each year.

Situated about 126km (78 miles) from Munich, it was built in the 19th Century and intended to serve as a residence for the rulers of the region, but was never occupied.

The Marienbrucke bridge where police say the man met the two women

The prosecutors at the nearby town of Kempten say the attack happened on 14 June, shortly after the suspect met the two women near the Marienbrucke bridge - a popular viewpoint used by tourists to view the castle.

He led them to a hidden trail, on the pretext that the way to the bridge was difficult to navigate.

The suspect then "forcibly brought the 21-year-old to the ground to undress her and perform sexual acts on her", the prosecutors said.

When her 22-year-old friend tried to intervene, he pushed her down the slope. She fell about 50m (164ft) and sustained numerous injuries, but survived.

The man is accused of strangling the younger woman and raping her, before also pushing her down. The woman died of her injuries.

The suspect was detained later that day after a massive police manhunt involving more than 25 vehicles.

Another American tourist, who witnessed the rescue and arrest, told the Associated Press news agency that the suspect had scratches across his face as he walked with police.
President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed in a phone call Sunday that Israel will allow a continued flow of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, according to the White House.

During the call, Biden welcomed the first two convoys of humanitarian assistance since Hamass October 7 terrorist attack, which crossed the border into Gaza and is being distributed to Palestinians in need, according to a readout from the White House. The leaders affirmed that there will now be continued flow of this critical assistance into Gaza.

The first two convoys of aid reached Palestinians this weekend, after the border crossing between Egypt and Gaza opened Saturday to allow food and medical assistance into the region. Another convoy of 15 trucks was expected to cross Sunday evening, U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Humanitarian Issues David Satterfield said Sunday during an interview on MSNBCs Inside with Jen Psaki.



Since Hamas' Oct. 7 incursion into Israel, killing more than 1,300 people and abducting as many as 200 more, Israel has mounted an aggressive counterattack while choking the flow of food and medical aid, amid fears the supplies could fall into the hands of Hamas militants.

The ongoing blockade of Gaza has pushed the territorys 2.3 million people to the brink of starvation, Cindy McCain, executive director of the U.N.s World Food Program, told POLITICO on Sunday.

During the call Sunday, Biden and Netanyahu also discussed efforts to secure the release of all the remaining hostages taken by Hamas  including U.S. citizens  and to provide for safe passage for U.S. citizens and other civilians in Gaza who wish to depart, according to the White House.

In a joint statement released later Sunday, the leaders of the U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the U.K. committed to continued cooperation with regional partners on delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, securing the release of hostages and supporting their respective citizens' efforts to leave Gaza.

The leaders "reiterated their support for Israel and its right to defend itself against terrorism and called for adherence to international humanitarian law, including the protection of civilians."

The statement further called for continued close diplomatic coordination "to prevent the conflict from spreading, preserve stability in the Middle East, and work toward a political solution and durable peace."
As a nursing assistant in intensive care, Nicole Fernandez learned on the job. She watched older nurses not only model how to communicate with patients, but also advocate for themselves, moving slowly into hospital leadership roles.

I remember just being so excited about the possibility of being able to do what the nurses I worked with did, Fernandez said. I started to watch leaders form when I was a new nurse  and I thought, OK, I can see myself doing that.

After 24 years at NorthShore hospitals, Fernandez will become president of Highland Park Hospital in January, as part of a cascading series of promotions at NorthShoreEdward-Elmhurst health. As NS-EEH leaders work to increase communication among hospital branches, leadership changes are coming to four Chicagoland hospitals in 2024. Three of the four new hospital presidents will be women, still a rarity in health care management nationwide.

Highland Park Hospital President Gabrielle Cummings will become president of Evanston Hospital in January. She will also oversee acute and ambulatory operations at the four NorthShore Hospitals  Evanston, Glenbrook, Highland Park and Skokie.

Cummings will be succeeded in Highland Park by Fernandez, currently chief nursing officer at Evanston Hospital. Evanston Hospitals current president, Doug Silverstein, will retire in 2024 after 42 years with NorthShore.

Skokie Hospital President Dave Rahija will move to lead NorthShore-EEH Medical Group Operations, to be replaced by surgical services operations leader Gus Granchalek.

Additionally, Glenbrook Hospital President Jesse Peterson Hall prepares to retire in summer 2024, after 21 years with NorthShore. Maria Knecht, Glenbrook Hospital senior vice president and chief nursing officer, will step into the role.

A new cardiovascular institute based at Glenbrook Hospital will launch in the spring, shortly before Hall retires. Watching over the programs growth is one of Knechts goals for her first 100 days at the helm of the hospital, she said.

As president of Highland Park Hospital, Cummings oversaw emergency care for residents following last years July Fourth mass shooting.

In tapping four new presidents, NorthShore did not carry out an external search, Cummings told the Tribune.

Knecht has spent 15 years in advancing leadership roles at NorthShore after starting her career as a charge nurse. Knowing that most promotion at NorthShore happens internally, she said, is one of the reasons so many nurses stay for decades.

Weve got a very supportive environment here where there is a strong mentoring program in existence for leaders, Knecht said, adding: My entire tenure here Ive constantly been mentored and developed.

With the promotions, six out of nine NorthShoreEdward-Elmhurst hospital presidents will be women. Cummings, Knecht and Fernandez join Kimberley Darey at Elmhurst Hospital, Yvette Saba at Edward Hospital and Gina Sharp at Linden Oaks Behavioral Health.

Cummings didnt notice the majority until after hiring decisions were made. In a female-dominated profession, focusing on employees who built trust through care work often means bringing women to the executive table, she said.

Most of the nurses and a lot of the clinicians that are doing the day-to-day health care are women, and I think our organization has acknowledged and recognized that by developing female leaders, Cummings said.

In hospitals, women are underrepresented in most leadership positions except for chief nursing officer and chief human resource officer, a 2021 study from East Carolina University found. About 27% of hospital presidents and CEOS are women, the study found.

Female hospital leaders are also more commonly found in small, rural, teaching or church-owned hospitals, ECU researchers wrote.

For Knecht, moving from nursing  a female-dominated profession  into large-scale health care management has informed the kind of workplace culture she wants to create.

The best part of (nursing) was that I could impact five patients a day, then when I was a manager, I was like, I can influence 40, Knecht said. We understand what thats like down to the patient level at the bedside. You grow up in that and you never lose that.

Another 2021 study by seven hospitals in Ohio, Florida, Texas, Georgia and Washington found that health care networks with more women in senior leadership positions were more likely to have female CEOs.

To be able to groom other qualified female leaders for that opportunity just speaks volumes, Fernandez said.

Cummings, whose search process for Evanston Hospital took place separately, knew the change was coming for a long time, she said. Goals for the NorthShore-EEH class of leaders include better financial stability and stronger patient outcomes.

Other goals for new leaders first 100 days include communicating more with residents in the neighborhoods surrounding NorthShore-EEH hospitals, as well as with nonclinical staff.

Working with the staff who are taking the blood or cleaning the room or delivering the meals, in addition to the staff that deliver the care  thats just going to be really important for us to keep front and center, because its going to look a little different, Fernandez said.

Having been at Evanston Hospital before, returning as president felt like a homecoming in some ways, Cummings said.

I know all the secret passageways and the back corridors to take the fastest routes, Cummings said. Im just excited to go back and look at the campus with different eyes.
On Friday, The Charlotte Observer brings hosts two of its Lake Norman-area mayoral forums with a look at candidates running in Mooresville.

The Observer is partnering again with Neighborhood TV and WSOC to host the event at FeedNC.

Participating in the forum are current Mooresville town Commissioner Bobby Compton and Chris Carney, a former commissioner and former North Carolina state senator.

The Observers Joe Marusak and WSOCs Joe Bruno will moderate and ask questions, some of which center on rapid growth and development, increased traffic, zoning and police recruitment.

Look for the full video at www.charlotteobserver.com in the coming days.

If you missed last weeks Huntersville mayoral forum, see the recap here.
ROCHESTER  Waste Management's Turnkey landfill on Wednesday received state approval to move forward with a 60-acre expansion of its massive garbage disposal operation in Rochester, despite health and safety concerns expressed by neighbors.

The project still requires approval from the federal Environmental Protection Agency.

The state approval came from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, Air Resources Division (NHDES), which issues the Title V Operating Permit in accordance with the New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rules governing the Control of Air Pollution.

Residents are already expressing concerns over the noxious odors emanating from the Rochester Turnkey operation. A permit granted Oct. 25 will allow the facility to move forward with an expansion of use project.

The permit has been submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region I (USEPA) for review. That federal agency has 45 days, beginning Oct. 25, in which to object to the issuance of the permit. If no objection is made by the end of the period, NHDES will issue a final permit.

Previous story: Rochester residents fed up as Turnkey Landfill is poised to grow

Permit will allow 1.5 million tons more garbage at landfill

Any person aggrieved by the landfill approval decision can, within 30 days of the date of the decision, file a petition for appeal with the Air Resources Council. More information can be found at https://www.nhec.nh.gov/air-resources-council.

Waste Management needed the permit to move forward with its plans to bring in more than 1 million tons more garbage to the landfill at 176 Rochester Neck Road.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services permit will allow Turnkey to move forward with their plan to accept an additional 1.4 million to 1.55 million tons of waste, some of it from out of state. This possibility has led to public concern over increased pollution.

According to the permit application, the more than 1,300-acre site in Rochester, which is operated by a private subsidiary of Waste Management, has proposed a plan to increase its disposal capacity and extend the lifespan of its 218-acre active landfill by adding another 60 acres. Three landfills exist at the site. Two are inactive and capped.

The Conservation Law Foundation fought the expansion with a lawsuit in 2020 but was not successful.

Gary Milbury is the administrator for permitting and environmental health for the Department of Environmental Services' air resources division. He said, last week, that concerns about pollutants is not a component of the permit Waste Management is seeking and cannot be taken into consideration. He said Waste Management already received a temporary permit, which will be incorporated into the final permit.

"The permit looks at two areas," he said. "The first part asks to roll the temporary permit into a permanent one. This is normally done as a minor modification revisited every five years, if they meet all criteria. The second part is a requirement for (Waste Management) to meet all U.S. EPA updated requirements for landfills. We can open the permit to make sure those are included. Because of that, we agreed to call this a significant modification. But anything other than those two requirements are not part of the permitting process."

In the meantime, Rochester residents, abutters to the Turnkey operation, are complaining about excessive odor emissions from the site. They are concerned about the smell, but also are questioning the source of odors and the health and safety of their families.

"What is it we are smelling, and why is it so bad?" City Councilor Tim Fontneau asked. "Is this a safety issue? People say they go outside, and it smells so bad they run back inside and close their windows."

"We have been hearing from our residents, who are telling us there are very bad odors," Mayor Paul Callaghan said.

The questions came Oct. 17 during a public hearing the Rochester City Council held with Steve Poggi, director of disposal operations for Waste Management.

More: Rochester voters to decide if sportsbook gambling site can come to city

Excessive stench blamed on heavy rains

Poggi acknowledged the worsening odor, blaming unusually high amounts of rainfall this summer and fall.

He told councilors Waste Management is taking action to remediate the odor problem and indicated the company believes it is not a safety concern for area residents.

Callaghan asked Poggi if Waste Management had to remediate odor issues in the past. He said no.

Poggi said rainfall measured on site was 47.6 inches from January to September, and the facility's gas collection system has occasionally been compromised.

"Excessive amounts of rainfall can flood out the gas collection pipes, causing landfill gas to leave the site outside of the closed collection system," he said. "This can cause temporary odor issues on site and in the surrounding area. We are aware of the increase in odor complaints over the past several months and have taken immediate and aggressive action to correct the causes. As noted, because collection pipes that take on water may have reduced capacity to manage landfill gas, much of the focus has been on installing new collection pipes and wells.

"We have increased our efforts to engage with our neighbors as we undertake these site improvements," Poggi added. "The Turnkey facility has a dedicated phone line for area residents to call when they experience an odor they believe is coming from the facility."

Winter heating outlook: Natural gas users get a break, oil users face higher costs

Odor complaint line set up

Poggi said residents can call 855-514-5157 "once an odor has been detected and provide specific details about the time, location, and nature of their observations." He said a third party takes the calls and relays information from residents to Waste Management so the company can "investigate, track and quickly respond to any odor complaints."

Retired local scientist Cynthia Walter, who holds a Ph.D. in biology, is among those who raised concerns by submitting comments to a public hearing about the plans at Turnkey Landfill, held by the state DES last month in Concord.

She raised concerns about safety standards and said she does not believe the landfill should be allowed to take in more materials until much-improved monitoring steps are in place.

"Citizens can smell Turnkey in their neighborhoods, but no one knows what they are breathing. Air pollutants from landfills include many that harm health," she said.

Milbury, of the New Hampshire DES, said predicting the impact of Waste Management bringing in more material is hard to predict. He also said because of interstate commerce clauses, the department cannot prevent material from coming in from other states.

"But in another point, the more they bring in, the faster they will fill up, and eventually they will need to cap and close the landfill," Milbury said. "We are certainly not unsympathetic to the concerns. The whole reason we permit is because of concerns. We can take a look and look at their best practices and work to remediate issues if found."

City councilors have been looking at steps to make up the $4 million annual loss in hosting revenues when the Turnkey operation closes, estimated to be around 2034.

This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: NH approves 60-acre expansion of Turnkey landfill in Rochester, NH
Bola Tinubu was elected with 37% of votes cast in a three-way race

Nigeria's Supreme Court has thrown out both opposition challenges to President Bola Tinubu's election win.

The two main opposition candidates had sought to reverse February's presidential election, alleging it was marred by irregularities.

The Election Petition Court upheld Mr Tinubu's victory last month, but the opposition insisted Nigeria's highest court should quash the judgement.

A presidential election result has never been overturned in Nigeria.

In a unanimous decision, a panel of seven justices first dismissed the challenge by Atiku Abubakar , who came second in the poll, and then rejected a similar one from Peter Obi , who came third.

"It is my view that there is no merit in this appeal and it is hereby dismissed," said Justice John Inyang Okoro of the case made by Mr Abubakar's Peoples Democratic Party.

The election was the most fiercely contested since the end of military rule in 1999, with three strong candidates for the first time. Mr Tinubu won with 37% of votes cast, against 29% for Mr Abubakar and 25% for Mr Obi.

With the challenge to his victory finally put to rest, President Tinubu is now expected to focus on how to pull the country out of its current economic crisis.

Nigeria is currently battling a cost-of-living crisis following the removal of a massive fuel subsidy - a situation that has pushed many Nigerians into multi-dimensional poverty.
FILE - Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu arrives for the closing session of the New Global Financial Pact Summit, on June 23, 2023 in Paris. Nigeria's Supreme Court refused Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023 to void the recent election of Tinubu and dismissed the political opposition's challenges, which argued that the vote was flawed and that Tinubu was not qualified to seek or hold the presidency. (AP Photo/Lewis Joly, file) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP)  Nigerias Supreme Court refused Thursday to void the recent election of President Bola Tinubu and dismissed the political opposition's challenges, which argued that the vote was flawed and that Tinubu was not qualified to seek or hold the presidency.

The court held in a majority ruling that the grounds of the challenges were devoid of merits, ending a dispute that had put Africas most populous country on the edge after the February election. An appeals court in Nigeria also rejected the petitions last month.

Two other candidates in the election separately challenged Tinubus win, alleging that he failed to meet the minimum educational qualification to run, did not secure the required number of votes and that the countrys election commission did not follow its own provisions in collating and announcing the election results.

During a televised hearing in Abuja, the Nigerian capital, the Supreme Court dismissed the challenges from the Peoples Democratic Partys Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party's Peter Obi in their entirety, affirming the position of the election tribunal that Tinubu's victory followed the due process.

It is my view that there is no merit in this appeal, Justice Inyang Okoro, who read the ruling of the seven-member court panel, said of Abubakar's petition. A similar ruling was subsequently issued in Obi's case.

The court also refused to admit new evidence that Abubakars lawyers said proved their allegations that Tinubu tendered forged academic credentials from an American university.

The court said the issue of the alleged forgery was not reflected as one of the grounds of the original petition within the time frame provided by the Nigerian Constitution.

Facts and documents which were not pleaded in the petition have no place in deciding the dispute between the parties, Okoro said.

The Peoples Democratic Party, Nigerias main opposition party, said it was alarmed, disappointed and gravely concerned by the court's finding, arguing it was inconsistent with Nigerian law.

Tinubu, who was the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, lauded the ruling. The court has done justice to all issues put up for consideration in the petitions on the merits of the law, without fear or favor, the president said.

While millions of Nigerians followed the question of the president's academic credentials as the major highlight of the case before the Supreme Court, Thursday's ruling did not come as a surprise to many because no presidential election in Nigeria has ever been annulled by a court.

Some have said the conditions stipulated in Nigeria's laws make it difficult to prove irregularities, and some questioned the independence of the judiciary.

Tinubu's election was largely described by observers as an improvement from the 2019 election. But the observers also said the delays in uploading and announcing the election results could have left room for ballot tampering.
(Bloomberg) -- Nigerias Supreme Court rejected petitions by two opposition leaders to have President Bola Tinubu s election declared illegal, bringing an end to an eight-month legal battle to overturn the results of the nations closest vote since the return to democracy in 1999.

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The ruling was delivered by a panel of seven judges in the capital, Abuja, on Thursday.

Since being sworn-in in May, Tinubu has initiated a series of economic reforms including unifying the West African nations complex exchange-rate system and removing a costly fuel subsidy to revive growth in the continents largest economy.

The ruling came after Atiku Abubakar of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party and Peter Obi of the Labour Party appealed an election tribunal decision to reject their case. The threshold for overturning a presidential election in Nigeria makes it almost impossible for a president to be removed after winning at the polls.

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When serving as governor of South Carolina in 2014, presidential GOP hopeful Nikki Haley said she considered China "a friend" and that she appreciated the "strong relationship" the Palmetto State shared with China.

In a letter sent to then Chinese Ambassador Cui Tiankai on Dec. 30, 2014, Haley thanked the diplomat for congratulating her on her re-election and said she is "grateful" for Chinas "contributions on the economic front."

Tiankai had written in his letter to Haley that China is "glad to see that the overall ties between China and South Carolina have been growing rapidly in recent years. I look forward to continuing to work with you."

The 2014 correspondence comes to light as Haley, whos seen a big boost in polling in recent weeks, repeatedly said on the campaign trail that China is the "No. 1 biggest national security threat." Earlier this year, Haley, who also served as U.N. ambassador under President Trump, released a comprehensive plan to combat China.

WAR OF WORDS: DESANTIS, HALEY TRADE FIRE OVER WHO WAS MORE CHINA-FRIENDLY GOVERNOR

Former Gov. Nikki Haley holds a rally in Greer, South Carolina.

On the campaign trail, Haley has spotlighted that she would rescind federal funding for universities that accept money from China, take back land in the U.S. that China's already purchased, and end "all normal trade relations with" China until it stops flooding the U.S. with fentanyl.

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Haley campaign spokesperson Ken Farnaso responded to the revelation, telling Fox News Digital, "Every governor in this campaign recruited Chinese businesses to their state."

"Nikki Haley did it 10 years ago. Just last year, Ron DeSantis let a U.S. sanctioned Chinese company expand its footprint in Florida. DeSantis even voted to fast-track Obamas bad trade deals. Nikki took on the Chinese threat every day as U.N. ambassador and has called for ending normal trade relations with China," Farnaso said.

Chinas increasing threat to the United States has been escalating since at least 2010. In the same year Tiankai and Haley corresponded, the Justice Department indicted five Chinese military hackers for economic espionage directed at six Americans in the U.S. nuclear power, metals and solar products industries.

Also in 2014, two Chinese security breaches into U.S. federal worker databases holding personnel records and security-clearance files "exposed sensitive information about at least 22.1 million people," the Washington Post reported.

BILL MAHER HYPES NIKKI HALEY AS A VIABLE ALTERNATIVE TO TRUMP: 'SHE'S HAVING A MOMENT'

Nikki Haley visits "Hannity" at Fox News Channel Studios on Jan. 20, 2023, in New York City.

The outlet reported that U.S. officials ranked the breaches "among the most potentially damaging cyber heists in U.S. government history because of the abundant detail in the files."

China is the latest flashpoint of contention between Haley and fellow GOP presidential contender Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

NIKKI HALEY WARNS BIDEN TO 'BE SMART' FOLLOWING HAMAS' RELEASE OF 2 AMERICAN HOSTAGES; 'DON'T FALL FOR IT'

Nikki Haley, former ambassador to the United Nations, speaks during the Road to Majority Faith and Freedom policy conference in Washington, D.C., on June 24, 2023.

In a Fox News Digital interview last week, DeSantis charged that Haley "rolled out the red carpet for China" during her tenure as South Carolina governor.

Haley's campaign fired back, claiming DeSantis has "aggressively recruited Chinese companies to Florida."

Fox News Digital's Paul Steinhauser contributed tot his report.





Original article source: Nikki Haley hailed China as a friend in 2014 thank-you letter to ambassador
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in central New Jersey briefly locked down Thursday afternoon as law enforcement responded to a report of an active shooter inside the installation.

The investigation found there was no shooter, a base spokesperson said in an email. The installation announced the all-clear around 3:45 p.m. local time, about an hour after warning all personnel at one of the East Coasts largest military bases to seek shelter.

JBDML is no longer under lockdown condition, Air Force Capt. Kitsana Dounglomchan, a base spokesperson, said in an email. We received notification of an active shooter on the joint base. After investigating the incident, it was found that there was no active shooter. We appreciate the publics concern and thank you for your continued support.

The base had announced on social media that a shooter was reported at Building 5321, part of the Armys 99th Regional Support Command.

UPDATE UPDATE UPDATE JBMDL is no longer under lockdown condition. We received notification of an active shooter on the... Posted by Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst on Thursday, October 26, 2023

Dounglomchan did not immediately answer what prompted the active shooter warning. The Burlington County Sheriffs Office referred questions to the military.

Around 47,000 uniformed and civilian employees from each branch of the armed forces and their families call JB McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst home.

The base is the Pentagons only installation that services the Army, the Navy and the Air Force. Located an hour northeast of Philadelphia, the sprawling 42,000-acre base is a hub for Air Force airlift and tanker fleets and Army reserve components in the northeast. It hosts the Armys 174th Infantry Brigade, the Air Forces 108th Wing, and the 99th Regional Support Command, among others.

Army Times senior reporter Davis Winkie contributed to this story.
Sapna Foundation announced it will host its third annual EnterCircle Entrepreneurship Summit from Nov. 15 to 17 in Ponte Vedra Beach.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The summit is expected to draw more than 350 attendees, including students from high schools and local colleges, small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Speakers will cover the theme, Thriving with a Purpose and give insights to attendees through lectures, workshops, break-out rooms, panels and networking sessions.

Supporting our local community is a core value of Hyundai of St. Augustine, said Andrew DiFeo, managing partner at Hyundai of St. Augustine. We are honored to support EnterCircle for the second year in a row. While the quality of the content and networking opportunities are first-class, it is the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative ideas from our communitys youth that are most inspiring. This years theme of Thrive with Purpose is very relevant in our ever-changing world with so many opportunities for meaningful change at the local and global level.

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Themes and highlights include:

Day 1: Focus on small businesses and startups; Events will include a startup pitch competition, a small business expo, a charity cocktail networking session and an awards night.

Day: Focus on high school students and young entrepreneurs; Students will get to pitch business ideas, gain coding and design experience and plan their college and career routes.

Day 3: Focus on womens entrepreneurship; This event will focus on providing resources for women in businesses through workshops on revenue modeling, growth strategy, etc.

Read: Empowering Hope: Fundraiser to rescue local women from trafficking and exploitation

The speaker lineup for this event includes Father Rich Pagano from John Paul II Catholic Church; Joy Andrews, interim county administrator for St. Johns County, Dr. Kathleen Schofield, executive director of Northeast Florida Regional Stem2 Hub, Marc Montemerlo, senior recovery engineer at SpaceX, Nick Crouch, co-CEO of Dyne Hospitality; Frank Benedetto, founder of The Honey Badger Project and Adam Lowe.

Registration is open for the expo. Interested parties can learn more and sign up at www.entercircle.zone.

Read: Lewiston shooting: What we know about Robert Card, person of interest in mass shootings

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The bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, Maine where a gunman opened fire Wednesday, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others have released statements expressing their grief.

Just-In-Time Recreation, a family-catered bowling alley located at 24 Mollison Way, said they lost some amazing people in their community during the shooting that occurred shortly before 7:00 p.m. Wednesday night.

None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is. We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and whole hearted people from our bowling family and community last night, read the post. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts.

None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is. We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some... Posted by Just-In-Time Recreation on Thursday, October 26, 2023

Schemengees Bar and Grill shared a similar emotional message on Facebook early Thursday hours after the gunman opened fire at the business minutes later and four miles down the road from Just-In-Time Recreation.

My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words. In a split second, your world gets turned upside down for no good reason, The post read. We lost great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.

Police identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the shootings. He remained at large hours after shots rang out. Police warned he should be considered armed and dangerous.

About one hour after the attacks, the Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office releases photos of a person of interest that show a man with a weapon going into the bowling alley. The sheriffs office says its investigating two active shooter incidents and they ask local businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate.

***Suspect for identification *** email responses to dispatch@androscoggincountymaine.gov or reply on Facebook... Posted by Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office on Wednesday, October 25, 2023

Maine authorities are expected to hold a press conference Thursday morning.

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Gov. Roy Cooper visited Glenn Elementary School in Durham on Tuesday to announce that $1.4 million in federal funds will go to support North Carolina public schools in expanding student breakfast programs.

You cant teach a hungry child, Cooper said. If a child hasnt eaten, then clearly that child is going to be more distracted, and its going to be more difficult to make sure that they learn.

Innovative breakfast options, like the breakfast served in classrooms at Glenn Elementary, help improve student success in academics while lowering the need for discipline, said Jim Keaten, the executive director of child nutrition services at Durham Public Schools.

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I think its starting to show in the academics that the kids being able to eat and focus and spend more timeinstructional time is really making an impact. And theyre focusing on education as opposed to discipline, Keaten said.

The funding will provide grants of up to $50,000 per school nutrition program to allow schools to better provide students innovative school breakfast options, such as breakfast in the classroom, grab-and-go breakfasts, or second chance breakfasts, when students have the option of eating breakfast during a break.

Related

New Data Shows 7% Drop in Students Accessing School Lunches Last Year

Hopefully it can get more school systems and schools involved in this program because we know that it means a lot for them to do this, Cooper said.

Cooper is partnering with the North Carolina Alliance for Health (NCAH) and the Carolina Hunger Initiative (CHI) for this effort.

The governor said the effort would particularly help schools with high numbers of low income students.

The innovative breakfast program at Glenn Elementary, which has been in place for about two years, allows all students  regardless of economic status  to arrive to class early for a free breakfast and receive bonus instructional time with teachers while they eat.

In the past two years, Glenn Elementary Schools performance grade has increased by 15 points, said Principal Matthew Hunt, and the extra time students can spend with their teachers has added about three additional weeks of instructional time for some students.

Food is the most important school supply, and getting kids off to a good start early in the morning with a good breakfast is, I think, the right thing to do, said Morgan Wittman Gramann, executive director of NCAH.

Tanitra Edwards, a third grade math and science teacher at Glenn Elementary, said she is a fan of the program as it allows her more time to connect with her students, especially those who might need extra help.

If theres a student that I know is needing a little more support or something from a previous day, Im allowed to work with them (at) that time, Edwards said. Of course, if they were in the cafeteria, I wouldnt have that time with them.

Cooper participated and observed as students at Glenn Elementary School were served individual bags of breakfast food early in the morning. Students in Edwards class worked on an online math game while they ate.

They just love coming in and having those options available, Edwards said.

Keaten recalled the stigma he felt as a child eating free breakfast at school, when students who needed free meals were separated from others, letting everyone know who the poor kid was. Free universal breakfasts for all students cuts down on that stigma, he said.

To be able to get all the kids to eat in the classroom with no stigma to me is just a tremendous gain, Keaten said. Its like one of my life goals to take that stigma away from kids.

The innovative breakfast program at Glenn Elementary emerged due to necessity during the pandemic as students had to eat in classrooms rather than in the cafeteria, Keaten said.

While eating in the classrooms, the school found students had more time to complete homework and receive help while school staff completed administrative tasks and morning announcements before class began, freeing up time during the school day, Keaten said.

Cooper said other ways to mitigate hunger among students include adequately funding public schools and teachers while employing more school social workers and counselors who can help support the whole child and their family.

Our schools can help connect families to services and help children not only get better nutrition, but be safer and have healthier lives all together, Cooper said.

Expanded breakfast programs will also benefit students who may have food available at home, but arent ready to eat first thing in the morning at home, Cooper said.

The $1.4 million in funding comes from the federal Emergency Assistance for Non-Public Schools funds that have gone to the Governors Emergency Education Relief fund.

Applications for the grants will open in the next few months. When approved, the school systems will receive the support for their breakfast programs. All funding must be spent by September 2024.

We celebrate this amazing opportunity to create more access for breakfast for more kids through innovative breakfast programs, said Lou Anne Crumpler, director of CHI.

In the wake of the pandemic, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provided all public school students across the nation with free breakfasts and lunches, though that opportunity ended at the start of the 2022-23 school year.

Cooper said on Tuesday that state is making efforts toward securing universal lunches for students, though the work is still in progress. The 2023-24 state budget included funding to eliminate student co-pays for reduced-price lunches, which means students qualifying for reduced-price lunches can now eat for free. The co-pay for reduced-price breakfast was eliminated in 2011.

This article first appeared on EducationNC and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
North Korea is accusing Israel of masterminding the ongoing violence between themselves and Hamas  and claiming the U.S. is an accomplice.

North Korean media accused Israel of responsibility for the recent explosion near al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in the Gaza Strip.

"What should not be overlooked is that Israel's such criminal act was openly committed under the undisguised patronage of the U.S.," a North Korean foreign ministry spokesperson told state media outlet Korean Central News Agency.

CHINA FORCIBLY REPATRIATES HUNDREDS OF ESCAPED NORTH KOREANS, US AMBASSADOR WARNS

North Korea is blaming Israeli Defense Forces for the explosion near al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza. A foreign ministry spokesperson has accused the U.S. of being an "accomplice" in "Israels genocide" of Palestinians.

"Immediately after the bombing of the hospital by Israel, the U.S. covered such crime, making absurd sophism that the incident seemed to be committed by other forces rather than Israel," the North Korean spokesperson continued. "This shows that the U.S. is an accomplice who connived at and fostered Israel's genocide."

Hamas has claimed Israel was behind the Oct. 17 explosion that killed hundreds of people, but the source of the rocket has been disputed.

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President Biden has asserted intelligence networks' belief that the explosion was caused by a misfire from Gaza militants themselves.

THOUSANDS OF REMOTE IT WORKERS FOR US COMPANIES SENT WAGES TO NORTH KOREA TO FUND WEAPONS PROGRAMS, FBI SAYS

A view of the surroundings of al-Ahli Baptist Hospital after it was hit in Gaza City, Gaza earlier this month.

"I was outraged by the bombing of the hospital yesterday. Based on what Ive seen, it was done by the other team. Not you," Biden told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a press conference on Oct. 18. "But there's a lot of people out there who are not sure."

Following an investigation, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) provided its findings with regard to the source of the airstrike.

"An analysis of IDF operational systems indicates that a barrage of rockets was fired by terrorists in Gaza, passing in close proximity to the al-Ahli [Baptist] hospital in Gaza at the time it was hit," IDF officials said. "Intelligence from multiple sources we have in our hands indicates that Islamic Jihad is responsible for the failed rocket launch which hit the hospital in Gaza."

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North Korea has been a consistent supporter of Hamas and the group's violence in Israel since the terrorist attack earlier this month that killed approximately 1,400 people in one day.

Russia has boasted similar rhetoric to North Korea, blaming U.S. interventionism for the terrorism and violence plaguing the region.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean supreme leader Kim Jong Un have significantly strengthened relations between the countries  most recently with a rare diplomatic envoy from the hermit kingdom.

Fox News' Lawrence Richard contributed to this report.





Original article source: North Korea accuses Israel of 'genocide' in Gaza, labels US an 'accomplice'
North Korea has blamed Israel for the recent explosion at a hospital in Gaza and claimed the attack was openly committed under the undisguised patronage of the United States. A spokesperson for North Koreas foreign ministry on Thursday pointed to U.S. weapons deliveries to Israel and the arrival of American carrier strike groups in the region in claiming that Washington, D.C., has given Israel a green light to massacre Palestinians without any worries. The official also said American denials that Israel was to blame for the hospital explosion shows that the United States is an accomplice who connived at and fostered Israels genocide. The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza said 471 died in the blast at the Al-Ahli Hospital on Oct. 17, though the death toll is disputed. A U.S. official said this week that American intelligence operatives have high confidence that the explosion was caused by a Palestinian rocket rather than an Israeli strike.

Read it at Voice of Korea

Read more at The Daily Beast.
SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korea's foreign ministry accused Israel of bombing a hospital in the Gaza Strip on Oct 17., saying it had openly committed a war crime "under the undisguised patronage of the United States".

In a statement carried on state-run news agency KCNA, a ministry spokesman also blamed the United States for "giving Israel a green light to massacre Palestinians without any worries" by supplying it with weapons and military support, including deploying aircraft carriers in the Middle East.

"This shows that the U.S. is an accomplice who connived at and fostered Israel's genocide," the spokesman said. The foreign ministry statement did not give any evidence to support its comments.

North Korean state media has often argued against Western views, especially those of the United States, on international issues. It also routinely lashes out at the United States.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza has said 471 people were killed in a blast at Al-Ahli al-Arabi Hospital earlier this month. Palestinians and Arab states said an Israeli air strike hit the hospital.

Israel said the blast was caused by a failed rocket launch by Hamas, a Palestinian militant Islamic Jihad group, which has denied responsibility.

A U.S. official said on Tuesday that U.S. intelligence officials have "high confidence" that the explosion was caused by a Palestinian rocket that broke up mid-flight, and not by Israel.

There is still uncertainty around the death toll from the hospital blast and the number of injuries, U.S. officials said.

(Reporting by Jack Kim; Editing by Ed Davies and Miral Fahmy)
One of Horry Countys largest cities has limited access to its council meetings since 2021, making it difficult for residents to learn about potential tax hikes or new programs.

But candidates vying for a seat on North Myrtle Beachs council all say theyd favor a return to internet broadcasts as a way to make local government more accessible for constituents.

There is no reason not to, Deborah Lombardino said in response to a recent Sun News questionnaire.

City spokesman Ryan Fabbri did not immediately respond to a Sun News inquiry about whether the practice will be revived, but officials told the newspaper last year it was being considered.

They also said it was initially halted due to low viewership.

South Carolinas open meetings law doesnt require communities to broadcast any of their deliberations, but nearly all of North Myrtle Beachs neighbors do it anyway: Conway, Myrtle Beach, Surfside Beach, the Horry County Council and Horry County Schools among them.

Myrtle Beach residents have been able to watch City Council meetings on TV since the mid-1990s, and online beginning in late 2018. Between the costs of streaming and equipment installation, its a roughly $55,000 investment to get meetings in cyberspace.

Councilman J.O. Baldwin III, who is seeking re-election Nov. 7, said he promotes any method that links the public with information about the city.

I support live streaming council meetings to encourage as much public involvement as possible. For years I have provided my personal cell phone number and email address to the public, and I encourage folks to use them, he said. I want to hear from as many people as possible on the issues that affect our city.

Fellow incumbents Fred Coyne and Hank Thomas also said theyd welcome a return to internet-supported meetings.

I would not have any issue with live streaming. The city, in my opinion does a good job of trying to keep citizens informed especially through electronic media, Thomas said. All council agendas are posted online along with all city department reports. Also, the city website is continuously updated.
WASHINGTON  Northrop Grumman on Thursday reported sales in its most recent quarter grew 9%, buoyed by increases in all four of its sectors.

The company recorded nearly $9.8 billion in sales for the third quarter of 2023, up from nearly $9 billion during the same period a year earlier. That included 11% growth in its space division, 9% in aeronautics and 6% in its defense sector.

Northrop Grumman also reported quarterly profit of $937 million, up 2% from the prior year.

Northrop Grumman chief executive Kathy Warden said in a call with analysts Thursday the company now has a record-high backlog of $84 billion.

And Warden highlighted Northrop Grummans win of a $705 million Air Force contract to build a stand-in attack weapon, or SiAW, for the F-35. This missile will be an air-to-ground weapon intended to strike enemies mobile air defense targets.

Northrop said it plans to build on its experience creating the Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range, or AARGM-ER, and integrating it onto the F-35 as it develops the SiAW.

Dave Keffer, Northrop Grummans chief financial officer, said on the call that aeronautics growth stemmed from higher volume in manned aircraft programs, such as a $1.3 billion award for the E-2 Hawkeye, and $3.6 billion in contracts for classified programs. Northrops defense growth was driven by higher volume in programs including the Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile, the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System and the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System.

Keffer said the company still anticipates receiving a low-rate initial production contract for the B-21 from the Air Force by the end of 2023. This contract would likely come after the bombers first flight this year, he said.

Northrop Grummans comments came a day after the Air Force confirmed the first B-21 has begun taxi tests at the services Plant 42 facility in Palmdale, California, which is a key step before the first flight can take place.

Air Force officials have not said whether they expect to award an LRIP contract this year. Warden said budget turmoil on Capitol Hill would not affect the B-21s first flight or the timing of its LRIP contract.

She cautioned the B-21 is not likely to be profitable at first, reiterating her previous warning in January that a loss of up to $1.2 billion on the LRIP contract is possible. But she said Northrop expects the B-21 to contribute to future growth.

We are planning at a zero profitability on the B-21 for now, Warden said. But we have to perform, and we are working hard to ensure that plan is what we achieve.
People walk through an alley in Itaewon where the Halloween crowd crush occurred last year, in Seoul, South Korea, on Oct. 23, 2023. Credit - Kim Soo-hyeonReuters

One word tore Joung-Joo Chois world apart.

He had first heard about crowd trouble in Seouls nightlife district of Itaewon on evening news bulletins, but it was a call from his wife that made panic set in. Their 21-year-old daughter, Yujin, had set off to celebrate Halloween in Itaewon last Oct. 29 with a friend, who had phoned to tearfully explain that as the melee grew denser she had lost grip of Yujins hand and consciousness soon after.

After she woke, she had received a call from Yujins phone but there was no sound, recalls Choi. So she thought that maybe Yujin was injured.

Choi met Yujins friend in front of Seouls Hanyang University Hospital at 1:30 a.m. There were lots of reporters and TV cameras, Choi tells TIME, standing before an unofficial memorial outside Seoul City Hall for the 159 victims of the Itaewon crush. There were dead bodies and a lot of confusion.

After hours of fruitless searching, Choi received a call from a policewoman asking if she was speaking to Yujins father. Then came that fated, hated word. I just heard her say unfortunately and I dont remember anything after that.

Left: Yujin Choi, alongside her parents, on her graduation day at NLCS Jeju in June 2019. Right: Yujin in France in July 2019. We all love her smile. But we all didnt know that this photo will be used [for] her memorial alter photo, says her father Joung-Joo Choi. Courtesy Choi

Choi was eventually reunited with Yujin in the morgue of a different hospital across the city. He spent the night weeping and stroking her hair. Yujin was a performance studies sophomore at NYUs Tisch School of the Arts, though she had deferred her studies due to the pandemic, returning to South Korea where, with the grimmest of irony, she believed shed be safe.

She loved writing, acting, and music, says Choi, 54, a media executive. She played the violin and was just a very positive, outgoing person.

No father should have to bury his only child, but Choi says the actions of South Korean authorities in the year since have only compounded his sense of grief and loss. While apologies have been issued, nobody has taken responsibility for the disaster, which occurred when an estimated 100,000 revelers converged on a narrow, 45-meter alley that linked a high street metro station entrance with another street packed with bars and restaurants.

[Officials] try to make it the victims own fault, says Choi. If they didnt go there, they wouldnt have died.

It was the first virtually unrestricted Halloween festivities since the pandemic, yet only 137 police officers were on duty in the areacompared with 6,500 assigned to monitor a peaceful protest of around 25,000 people against the government of President Yoon Suk-yeol the same night. Just after 10 p.m., the crowds in Itaewon surged in different directions with people losing their footing on the allys incline, causing a domino effect and many to be trampled.

Medical staff transport a victim on a stretcher in Itaewon on Oct. 30, 2022. At least 120 people were killed and some 100 were injured in a stampede in central Seoul when thousands crowded into narrow streets to celebrate Halloween. Jung Yeon-jeAFP/Getty Images

Marking the first anniversary of the disaster, on Sunday, parents plan to march from Itaewon to City Hall to mourn together and to demand accountability from the local and central government. They are pushing for a special law to establish a special investigation committee to uncover the truth behind the Itaewon crush, believing that Yoons decision to allow the National Police Agency to investigate itself was flawed.

The agency cleared its own top bosses and those at the central government of any wrongdoing. Cases against a dozen local police, fire, and other officials for offenses including negligence are ongoing. Justice has not been quick, says Sean OMalley, a professor and political scientist at Dongseo University in Busan. Thats very upsetting for parents who want some form of substantial change to safety procedures and how the government handles large scale events.

Political polarization has also muddled matters. The tragedy was seized upon by the opposition Democratic Party, which tried to elevate the tragedy to the national level and assign blame to the Yoon administration. Lawmakers voted to impeach Interior Minister Lee Sang-min for his alleged role in the disaster only for the decision to be overturned by the Constitutional Court.

The furor fed a heightened climate of revenge politics, where any misstep by a rival party is seen as something to jump on, making officials more wary of taking responsibility, says OMalley. People were really upset that the opposition party had played politics with this tragedy.

In an interview with TIME, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said one of the causes of the disaster was that the alley was a CCTV blindspot, which has now been fixed with extra cameras. In the future, we will incorporate AI into so-called people-counting CCTVs so they will automatically detect the number of people in crowds, he says. I firmly believe that such an accident will not occur again.

Ohs use of accident is itself telling. The Yoon administrationOh belongs to the same conservative party as the presidenthas instructed officials to use accident and deceased instead of disaster and victims when referring to the tragedy.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol visits a memorial for the victims of the Itaewon crowd crush, in Seoul on Oct. 31, 2022. Chung Sung-JunGetty Images

For Choi, the shirking of official responsibility is bad enoughbut the insidious descent into victim-blaming betrays a callousness thats almost impossible to comprehend.

Itaewon was spawned as a bawdy nightlife district adjacent to the U.S. military barracks, whose carousing GIs inevitably lent a reputation for sleaze and debauch. Though the barracks have long gone and Itaewon has since gentrified into some of Seouls priciest real estate, replete with cocktail bars and churrasco joints, an association with sybarites persists, especially amongst the older generation. When the crush occurred, city officials either overtly or obliquely began propagating the notion that the revelers themselves must have been at fault, having overindulged in drink or drugs or otherwise ignored the obvious danger signs.

They say they went there for fundrinking, drugs, Choi says. Its such a strange response. People didnt get to hear how important, how brilliant, how shining these young people were.

The dodging of official responsibility is sadly all too common in South Korea, where politically appointed officials are protected by an entrenched hierarchical culture. In July, 14 people died when over a dozen vehicles including a bus were swamped by a flash flood in a tunnel south of Seoul, despite warnings about the incoming bad weather for days. In August, the World Scout Jamboree had to be evacuated due to a heatwave, sewage spills, and flooded tents. In both cases, officials failed to heed warnings, but no political bigwigs faced censure.

Instead, the imperative of the business and political classes is to move on. South Korea is aiming to attract 30 million foreign visitors by 2027, capitalizing on a global K-Culture buzz that is sweeping the world, from pop sensations Blackpink to the Netflix hit show Squid Game. In this context, dwelling on the Itaewon crush is bad for business.

A worker displays star shaped lanterns in memory of victims of the Oct. 29 crowd crush that killed more than 150 people last Halloween, near the site of the tragedy in Itaewon, Seoul, on Oct. 25, 2023. Anthony WallaceAFP/Getty Images

Today, the site of the crush is marked by a purple notice board where well-wishers leave heartfelt notes in over a dozen languages. Meanwhile, outside City Hall, the small, makeshift shrine with photos of the mostly young victims, flower tributes, and somber classical music has been hit with escalating fines amounting to tens of thousands of dollars.

If they had consulted with the Seoul Metropolitan government before installing the shrine, it would not have been a problem, shrugs Oh. But according to Korean law its illegal thats why we fine them.

This years Halloween celebrations will be a very subdued atmosphere with few decorations and fewer parties. Police have instructed Itaewon bars to keep their doors shut and not allow patrons to spill onto the street. Still, none of half-down business owners near the crush alley agreed to interviews when approached by TIME. Its not good for business, one said. We want to move on.

For Choi and the other relatives, its not that simple. For want of a proper investigation, Choi spends his spare time conducting his own by examining bodycam footage supplied unofficially by sympathetic lawmakers. He hopes to learn more about Yujins fate and a tragedy that his government appears desperate to forget. Nothing has changed, he says. The same disasters happen again and again in Korea.

Write to Charlie Campbell at charlie.campbell@time.com.
The local authorities independently assess the damage from Russian attacks and the work of Ukraine's Air Defence Forces. The task of air defence is to down Russian targets wherever possible.

Source: Yurii Ihnat , spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, on air of national 24/7 newscast and in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "I was a little surprised by that information [from the local government of Khmelnytskyi Oblast about the aftermath of a Russian air attack on 25 October 25  ed.]. As if after a nuclear explosion... 1,760 civilian targets, schools, churches  it sounds frightening.

It is necessary to explain what is happening... If a Shahed drone or a missile crashes, an explosion occurs in the air, an anti-aircraft missile explodes, an enemy air target explodes, windows may be damaged by the blast wave (windows have very little chance in general, that is why they are fastened with tape so that the debris did not hit people). This is how an anti-aircraft combat takes place.

If there is a small number of Shahed drones or missiles, and settlements and houses fall into the air defence area, then such things happen.

The wreckage is sure to fall on the ground, which is why we ask people to go to the shelter.

Therefore, there is damage to roofs, windows. However, everyone counts in a different manner, and local managers may have tough time providing financial assistance [to those who suffered losses in such attacks]. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the information that appears now, and not to frighten people with terrible numbers, [alk it takes is] to make things clear. "

Details: In an interview with UP, Ihnat specified that six Shaheds were destroyed in the sky over Khmelnytskyi Oblast on the night of 24-25 October, and five more  following their tracking routes in various regions.

Background:

Russia launched 11 Shahed attack drones on Ukraine on the night of 24-25 October. Ukraines Armed Forces said that the air defence network shot down all Russian drones, though several people were injured and buildings were damaged by the falling wreckage.

The cities of Slavuta and Netishyn (Khmelnytskyi Oblast) sustained damage when Ukraines air defence downed the Russian drones.

Ukraines Energy Ministry said that Russia attacked the area near the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. The explosions caused by the Russian drone strike damaged windows in the power plants administrative premises and laboratory.

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A total of 21 Ukrainians died in Israel due to a Hamas attack, and 3 more died in the Gaza Strip. The number of victims among Ukrainian citizens has increased. As of 24 October, 19 Ukrainians in Israel and 3 in the Gaza Strip had been reported as killed.

Source: Oleh Nikolenko, Spokesman of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "Unfortunately, the number of victims among Ukrainians in Israel has increased.

We currently have confirmed information about 21 Ukrainians killed, as well as one missing person.

Three people were killed (two children and an adult) and six injured, including three children, in the Gaza Strip. Citizens have received injuries of varying degrees of severity; they are provided with medical assistance."

Details: Nikolenko says that 357 Ukrainians, including 208 women, asked to be evacuated from the Palestinian enclave.

The spokesman of the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that Ukrainian diplomatic institutions are in constant contact with them.

At the same time, the Rafah checkpoint on the border of the Gaza Strip and Egypt is currently not working. There is currently no way to leave.

Nikolenko added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, together with its partners, is working with the parties involved to obtain permission to evacuate people as soon as possible.

Background:

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict escalated on 7 October when Hamas attacked Israel with missiles.

On 9 October, Israel announced that Israeli forces had regained control over all settlements on the border with Gaza.

Israel is currently planning a ground offensive against the Gaza Strip that can last up to three months.

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The skeletal remains of a nomadic warrior discovered in Outer Mongolia in 1925 are displayed before their removal from public viewing at the American Museum of Natural History, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023, in New York. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

NEW YORK (AP)  There are stories in the human bones at the American Museum of Natural History. They tell of lives lived  some mere decades ago, others in past centuries  in cultures around the world.

But the vast collection of thousands of skeletal parts at one of the world's most visited museums also tells a darker story  of opened graves, disrupted burial sites and collecting practices that treated some cultures and people as objects to be gawked at.

The New York museum announced this month that it is pulling all human remains from public display and will change how it maintains its collection of body parts with the aim of eventually repatriating as much as it can and respectfully holding what it cant.

The museum now holds around 12,000 sets of remains, including the bones of Indigenous people and enslaved Black people, often amassed in the 19th and 20th centuries by researchers looking to prove theories about racial superiority and inferiority through physical attributes.

Some of the other remains are people  likely poor or powerless  whose bodies had once been used at medical schools before they were given to the museum as recently as the 1940s.

American Museum of Natural History President Sean Decatur, who in April became the museums first Black leader, said that for the most part, the remains in the collection were acquired without clear consent of the dead or their descendants.

I think its fair to say that none of these people set out or imagined that their resting place would be in the museums collection, he said. And in most of the cases, there also was a clear differential in power between those who were collecting and those who were collected.

The process of pulling human remains from public display will impact six of the museum's galleries. Objects being removed include a musical instrument made from human bone, a skeleton from Mongolia that is more than a thousand years old and a Tibetan artifact that incorporates bones.

The idea that human remains and artifacts taken from other cultures should be returned is not new. A U.S. law passed in 1990 created a legal process for some Native tribes to recover ancestral remains from museums and other institutions. In a letter to museum staff, Decatur said about 2,200 sets of remains at the museum fall under that category.

Other museums and institutions are grappling with the issue as well. At the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, for example, more than 100 human remains have been returned to the relevant communities. The museum is working to return four other sets of remains that don't fall under the federal law's purview.

Fundamentally, we have a responsibility to do more than acknowledge the harm caused by historical collecting practices that treated peoples and cultures as objects of scientific study, Chris Patrello, curator of anthropology at the museum, said in an email.

In 2022, an estimated 870,000 Native American artifacts, including remains that should be returned to tribes under federal law are still in possession of colleges, museums, and other institutions across the country, according to The Associated Press.

But its not just Indigenous remains being in museum collections that are troubling.

Decatur said some of the remains in the museum are believed to be of five Black people whose bones were removed from a northern Manhattan burial ground during a road construction project at the start of the 1900s.

Enslavement was a violent, dehumanizing act; removing these remains from their rightful burial place ensured that the denial of basic human dignity would continue even in death, Decatur said in his letter to the museum staff.

Historically, Black graves have been subjected to robbery, said Lynn Rainville, a professor of anthropology at Washington and Lee University. They have also been covered over or disrupted in construction and development projects.

Decatur said the American Museum of Natural History's holdings also include about 400 bodies that came from four New York medical schools in the 1940s, even though theres no obvious process by which bodies used for medical training in anatomy should have ended up in a museum.

One of the medical schools no longer exists; the others were connected to Columbia, Cornell and New York University. Columbias medical school had no comment. The other two did not respond to emails seeking information. Museum officials said they were talking with the schools and as far as they had been able to determine, the bodies had not come to the institution in any nefarious way.

Its one of those things that is jarring and sort of ... hits closer to home than an archaeological expedition thats looking at things that are a thousand-plus years old. But its a practice that was incredibly common at the time, Decatur said.

Susan Lederer, professor of medical history and bioethics at the University of Wisconsins medical school, said that as the number of medical schools increased in the 19th century and dissection became an essential part of training, schools needed to find more cadavers.

States passed laws making unclaimed bodies, mostly of very poor people, available to medical schools.

It reflects longstanding assumptions about the differences between middle-class and either working-class or underclass people that it was deemed acceptable to turn certain bodies over but not others, she said.

The practice at most medical schools shifted in the second half of the 20th century for a number of reasons, including more people in the U.S. being willing to donate their bodies after death, she said.

The museum's process of figuring out how to handle those and other remains in storage will take some time, Decatur said. Officials will need to determine what can be returned and to whom, as well as how to properly care for any remains that stay behind.
NEW YORK  Police in New York City monitoring the mass shooting in Maine that killed 18 people are on the lookout for possible copycats  and the real thing.

A manhunt is still on for shooting suspect Robert Card, and although authorities have established no links between the accused killer and New York City, NYPD officials said they arent taking any chances.

While this is not our investigation, we dont have the luxury of waiting for answers to these questions, said NYPD Commissioner Edward Caban. We have kept a close watch here. We made a decision to marshal our resources. There is no specific threat to New York City, but to me, we could not remain idle.

The heightened alert comes after Card, 40, a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, opened fire inside a bar and bowling alley in Lewiston, killing 18 people and wounding more than a dozen, officials said.

Gunfire initially erupted Wednesday inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley just before 7 p.m., sending terrified guests, among them children, rushing for cover.

Police said the gunman then targeted Schemengees Bar & Grille, a restaurant less than five miles away from the bowling alley.

The shooting marked the nations 36th mass killing since January, and the 10th deadliest in U.S. history.

Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD has made sure cops monitoring the bridges and tunnels into New York City have Cards vehicle information, Caban said.

They also coordinated with the MTA, Port Authority and Bridge and Tunnel Authority to make sure everyone knew who and what to look for.

Every police officer in the NYPD was also sent a picture of Card on their cellphone to keep an eye out for him. Police are also out in force today, monitoring sensitive locations to make sure Card doesnt show up or that there are no copycats, the commissioner said.

About 900 cops have been deployed to sensitive spots throughout the city, he said.

Rebecca Weiner, the deputy commissioner of Intelligence and counterterrorism, said NYPD detectives were sent to Maine to help coordinate information and help in the investigation.

_____
The New York City government held a press conference addressing the incident Wednesday at Cooper Union during which Jewish students were harassed by pro-Palestinian demonstrators.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) told the press Thursday there was "no direct threat" to the Jewish students during the ordeal at the university library and downplayed the severity of the disruption.

"There was no direct threat. There was no damage, and there was no danger to any students in that school," an NYPD official told the media.

NYC COLLEGE'S JEWISH STUDENTS SEEN LOCKED INSIDE LIBRARY AS ANTI-ISRAEL PROTEST MOVES THROUGH BUILDING

A pro-Palestinian protest moves through Cooper Union in New York City Wednesday as Jewish students remained in the library.

The protest, which started as a walkout of students at Cooper Plaza around 1 p.m., reportedly started as two counter-protesting groups supporting Palestinians and Israel.

About 20 of the pro-Palestinian demonstrators broke off from the original protest to march on the university president's office, skipping over the school's swipe-in security check, and chanted in the waiting area unimpeded by private security.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

School officials allowed the anti-Israel protest to continue and wanted "to allow the students to keep talking," the NYPD official told the press Thursday.

JEWISH AMERICAN STUDENTS OUTRAGED BY RISING ANTISEMITISM IN US AMID HAMAS TERROR ATTACKS ON ISRAEL

When the same 20 students came down the stairs of Cooper Union, a school official closed the doors to "let the protesters pass," the official said.

For approximately 10 minutes, the protesters "were banging on the doors of the library and banging on some transparent windows that you see in the library," he added.

"The students were not barricaded," the official said Thursday. "The doors are open but closed. A school administrator thought it was prudent to close the doors and place private security as the protesters were coming down the stairs."

Foundation Building, Cooper Union, New York City,

Public relations manager Ronn Torossian called the incident an "attack" on Thursday as he hosted a rally for the Jewish community in response to the controversy.

"Professors were among those who attacked the kids, basically for 40 minutes," Torossian told Fox News Digital. "Kids  Jewish kids  were held hostage in an American institution, and the NYPD did not protect them."

NYPD agreed to place uniformed police officers on the Cooper Union campus the day following the incident to maintain peace.





Original article source: NYPD says 'no direct threat' to Jewish students during Cooper Union protest
NEW YORK  Jewish students at Cooper Union college who say they were locked in the campus library during a pro-Palestinian protest were expected to demand the arrests of those who allegedly threatened them as criticism of the universitys response mounted Thursday.

The group told reporters at news outlets it took 40 minutes for police to respond to the protesters. A rally was scheduled for Thursday afternoon outside the East Village college to demand the arrests.

Videos widely shared on social media show student protesters banging on a reportedly locked door, as at least four students  some wearing traditional Jewish yarmulkes  sheltered inside.

We were aware of the protests, said NYPD Chief of Patrol John Chell at a press conference Thursday. School officials asked us to be there from start to finish.

The department disputed that doors were locked and described the protest as orderly, despite videos on social media that suggest students felt threatened. Police said they were present in plain clothes.

The doors were not barricaded, Chell said. The doors were closed. School administrators agreed to close the doors.

The college did not return a request for comment from the Daily News on Thursday morning about its response to the incident.

Its absolutely appalling that Jewish students were intimidated and harassed this way, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. What is Cooper Union doing about this??

Roughly 90 students participated in the protest in total, with the vast majority were there to support Palestine, police said. The pro-Palestinian protesters chanted as fewer than two dozen students supporting Israel remain silent, according to the account.

About 20 of the students entered the school, remaining inside for nearly half an hour, before moving to the library.

They were supposed to swipe in, but they kind of rushed past the swipe in (area), Chell said. They went to the presidents office. They got inside the office and waiting area and they were chanting. The police on the scene and private security allowed the students to do that for about a half hour.

School staffers heard them come down and made the decision to close the library doors, Chell said. They left the protesters in there for about 10 minutes. They were banging on the doors and transparent windows to bring attention to themselves.

No students were hurt or arrested, nor was any property damage reported. Students dispersed after the incident, cops said.

There have been roughly 70,000 participants in more than 100 protests over the war in Israel over the last few weeks, police said. More than 230 of them have been arrested.

_____
Noon Friday, Oct. 27, is the deadline to appear in next weeks Around Town listing. We must receive your event in writing with a contact phone number for questions. Submissions will be edited and appear in the week before the event date.

Send event info via email to lifestyle@bnd.com. Questions, call Jennifer Green at 618-239-2643.

Thursday, Oct. 26

 National Alliance on Mental Illness: Family Support Group  7-8:30 p.m. Online via Zoom. These support meetings are for family members, significant others and/or friends of persons with a mental health condition. Facilitators: Pat Rudloff and Beverly Churchill. Held the fourth Thursday of the month. For information: kelly.nami.swi@gmail.com or 618-798-9788.

Friday, Oct. 27

 OFallon Knights of Columbus & Ladies Auxiliary Fish Fry  11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Knights of Columbus Hall, 402 E. U.S. 50, OFallon. Traditional menu of cod, tilapia, catfish, hamburgers, hot dogs, pork steaks and several side dishes. Dine-in and carryout. Credit cards accepted. Orders can be called in at 618-632-6229. facebook.com/KnightsOfColumbus4239

 Swansea Fish Stand  11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays. KC Club & Event Center, 5420 Old Collinsville Road, OFallon. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and more. Open for carryout, call-in and dine-in orders. 618-222-7171. facebook.com/KCClubEastStLouis

 Oasis Class: The Life of Ernest Hemingway: The Man Behind the Myth  1-2:30 p.m. AgeSmart Oasis, 801 W. State St., OFallon. Ernest Hemingway lived a spicy, interesting life! This Oasis class will offer a window into the man behind the myth. His love of bullfighting, drinking, and his revolutionary writing style may be widely known, but who is the real guy behind the legend of Ernest Hemingway? Come learn about his first love which inspired one of his greatest novels, his experiences as a journalist across the world, and why Hemingway is read by all age groups and still remembered as one of the greatest American writers to this day. Older adults can register for the course on Oasiss website and view more classes at stloasis.org/agesmart. 314-862-4859, ext. 24.

 Shiloh Eagles Fish Fry  5-7 p.m. Shiloh Eagles 545, 100 Eagle Drive, Shiloh. Cod, walleye, catfish, shrimp and sides. Full menu. Dine-in or carryout available. For carryout, call 618-624-5412. facebook.com/shiloheagles545 or shiloheagles545.com

Saturday, Oct. 28

 Caffeine and Chrome  9 a.m. to noon. Gateway Classic Cars, 1237 Central Park Drive #1, OFallon. Cruise in with your collectible car or daily driver and bring your appetite. Indulge in pastries and coffee (while supplies last). All makes and models are welcome, with plenty of parking space. This is a family and pet friendly event. Free and open to the public. facebook.com/events/1467388670415073

 Genealogy Research Meet Up  1-3 p.m. Belleville Public Library, 121 E. Washington St., Belleville. Members of the St. Clair County Genealogical Society will help navigate the wealth of genealogy research materials available in the librarys Archives and Research Department. Open to the public. No reservation required. For more information: stclair-ilgs.org/events or facebook.com/STCCGSIL.

Sunday, Oct. 29

 Masterworks Childrens Chorus: Music for Young Voices  3 p.m. Saint Clare of Assisi Catholic Church, 1411 Cross St., OFallon. In a concert for children of all ages, the Masterworks Childrens Chorus will present music of many traditions, suitable for young hearts and voices. A highlight of the concert will be a performance of excerpts from Humperdincks delightful Hansel and Gretel, with a retelling of the classic Grimm fairytale. With wicked witches and a haunted forest, its the perfect prelude to Halloween. For tickets and info: singmasterworks.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 31

 OFallon Fire Department Trick-or-Treat  6-9 p.m. OFallon Fire Station #1, 106 E. Washington, OFallon. Trick-or-treaters can stop by as the OFallon Fire Department hands out candy. Trick-or-treat hours are 6-9 p.m. throughout all of OFallon. Trick-or-treaters should only approach well-lit homes and residences. Please pass by any locations that do not have their lights on.

Wednesday, Nov. 1

 National Alliance on Mental Illness: NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group  6:30-8 p.m. Online via Zoom. Free peer-to-peer support group for adults with a mental health condition working towards recovery. Every Wednesday. Open the Zoom app and enter 3914844542. For information: kelly.nami.swi@gmail.com or 618-798-9788.

Thursday, Nov. 2

 St. Clair County Genealogical Society  7 p.m. Online via Zoom. Program: Introduction to Family Tree Maker  Building Your Family Tree. Family Tree Maker Ambassador Mark Olsen gears his 90-minute program toward new and experienced researchers. It includes how the current software version differs from others, how its installed, basic tree building tools, and its interaction with Ancestry and Family Search. He also discusses Family Tree Maker partner product plug-ins, Charting Companion and Family Book Creator. The meeting is open to the public, but space is limited. For reservation information: stclair-ilgs.org/events or facebook.com/STCCGSIL.

Other area happenings

 Beethovens Piano Cycle: Paul Lewis Plays the Fourth  7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 3, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5. Touhill Performing Arts Center at the University of Missouri - St. Louis, 1 Touhill Circle, St. Louis. Orpheus was Greek mythologys superstar musician. Stephane brings two responses to the myth, the bewitching beauty of Glucks Orfeo ed Euridice and Beethovens Fourth Piano Concerto. Pianist Paul Lewis is among the worlds great Beethoven pianists, offering what Gramophone Magazine calls shining musicianship. The sprightliness of Prokofievs First Symphony and Ravels Le Tombeau de Couperin refreshes us with a splash of colors, vivid lights, and rich tonal variety. slso.org
Editor's note: This article was updated on Oct. 30 to add information to a photo caption. The photo of Dr. Jill Oxley and nurse practioner-certified Stephanie Ellis, was taken in an exam room at Cape Cod Healthcare's Cuda Breast Care Center in Hyannis.

In 1991, when Cheryl Osimo, a former elementary school teacher and a Barnstable resident, was diagnosed with breast cancer at an early age, she was determined to find out why she had gotten the disease so young.

Osimo, now executive director of Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition, spends all her time raising awareness about the disease.

According to the National Cancer Institute, nearly 298,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 43,000 will die of the disease in 2023. One in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

October is globally observed as the breast cancer awareness month.

Dr. Naomi Kalliath, left, Dr. Jill Oxley, center, nurse practioner-certified, Stephanie Ellis right, with Cape Cod Healthcare.

Massachusetts has a high incidence rate, but Cape Cod has an alarming rate

Massachusetts as a whole has an incidence rate higher than the national average; the national incidence rate is 127 patients per 100,000 women, whereas in Massachusetts we're at 136 patients, said Dr. Jill Oxley, breast surgeon and director of Breast Care Services at Cape Cod Healthcare.

According to the coalition, 1993 statewide data showed breast cancer incidence rates were significantly higher on Cape Cod than in the rest of Massachusetts. The rates have been relatively stable since then.

According to the National Cancer Institute, and based on data from 2016 through 2020, Barnstable County has approximately 310 new breast cancer cases in females annually, regardless of age or race.

Rates of breast cancer in Barnstable County are 14% higher than Massachusetts and 22% higher than the U.S. average

Based on the most recent information from the National Cancer Institute, rates of breast cancer in Barnstable County are 14% higher than the rate in Massachusetts and 22% higher than the U.S. average, for the years 2016 to 2020.

By county Barnstable has the second highest rates after Nantucket and it has been relatively stable for the last few years.

According to Oxley, some of the high rates can be attributed to greater screening through mammograms. Massachusetts is second highest in the nation for women being up to date on demographic screening.

The U.S. average is 67%, but in Massachusetts, 75% of women are getting screening mammograms.

Researches indicate environmental links to higher rates

The Silent Spring Institute, based in Newton, was founded in 1994 and focuses on environmental links to the disease.

After its initial research, the Institute found that between 1982 and 1992, breast cancer incidence was 21% higher on Cape Cod than in the rest of Massachusetts, and women with greater exposure to pesticides suffered even higher rates.

Dr. Jill Oxley, left, with nurse practioner-certified Stephanie Ellis in an exam room at Cape Cod Healthcare's Cuda Breast Care Center in Hyannis.

Our mission at Silent Spring is to identify how everyday chemical exposures can relate to breast cancer risk," said Laurel Schaider, senior scientist at the Institute. "We've developed materials and tips to help people take steps in their everyday lives to reduce their exposures that could play a role in breast cancer."

In July 2021, a study by the Institute showed that several hundred common chemicals, including pesticides, ingredients in consumer products, food additives, and drinking water contaminants, could increase the risk of breast cancer by causing cells in breast tissue to produce more of the hormones estrogen or progesterone.

In October 2022, from another study, scientists identified hundreds of chemicals, called endocrine disrupting chemicals, that disrupt or interfere with natural hormones. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals can alter the progression of mammary gland development, hampering breastfeeding, increase mammary tissue density, all of which can have an effect on developing cancer.

Since such chemicals are used in common products like hair dyes, food packaging, pesticides, and furniture, they can also end up in drinking water and accumulate in household dust, making people exposed to them unknowingly.

These findings have motivated our work to better understand the levels of water contaminants in public and private drinking water wells on Cape Cod, said Schaider. The EPA currently regulates around 90 contaminants in drinking water and there are a lot that aren't regulated, so the groundwater on Cape Cod which is the source of drinking water for all residents is relatively vulnerable to contamination.

We also found weak evidence of links between increased breast cancer risk and having lived near cranberry bogs when DDT and other pesticides were used," Schaider said. "Other studies have shown that exposures to DDT do increase a woman's breast cancer risk."

Scientists study effects of PFAS chemicals on cancer rates

A lot of the research work is currently focused on PFAS contamination. PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down.

The coalition is currently a community partner for three national projects; STEEP (Sources, Transport, Exposure, and Effects of PFASs) Superfund Research Center, PFAS-REACH (Research, Education, and Action for Community Health), and the third project is part of a larger multi-state study funded by the CDC and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) on PFAS health effects.

The Multi-Site Study focus is to learn more about how PFAS chemicals can affect the health of adults and children. The data collection was done in Hyannis and Ayer, where nearly 700 adults and 100 children completed questionnaires, had clinic visits and provided blood samples.

The STEEP Superfund Research Program, led by the University of Rhode Island, has been measuring PFAS levels in private wells on Cape Cod.

We have been working with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe to measure PFAS levels in local fish and shellfish, and are surveying members of the Tribe to learn more about their awareness of PFAS and their fish consumption patterns, said Osimo, who also serves as the Cape Cod coordinator for Silent Spring Institute.

We also want to learn more about PFAS exposures in Hyannis other than drinking water, which is now being filtered to remove PFAS, said Osimo.

Still no definite answer to why Cape Cod has a higher rate

Even though so much research and studies have been conducted, there is no definitive answer to why Cape Cod has such a higher rate compared to the rest of the state.

We did not find a single environmental factor, sort of a smoking gun, that indicates to us that there's one single factor about the Cape that makes the difference, said Schaider.

For Osimo, being a cancer survivor, it was imperative to find an answer to this burning question.

I thought that by this time decades later, I would have the answers to share with the community, along with my family members, but we dont have an answer, said Osimo. I have more questions now about PFAS and other possible chemical links.

According to Osimo, only 5% to 10% of all cancers are genetic and she strongly believes the changing environment has a strong role in that increase.

According to Schaider, another important finding is that it can be very difficult to evaluate the role of the environment with respect to breast cancer risk since exposures can happen during certain critical windows in a woman's life, even in the womb, during early childhood, puberty and adulthood.

Does Cape Cod have enough resources to deal with cancer patients?

We have all the resources here on Cape Cod and I strongly believe anyone can get the absolute best care here on the Cape, said Osimo. During her diagnosis, Osimo had done all her treatment procedures on the Cape.

Cape Cod Hospital, Falmouth Hospital and the Cuda Breast Care Center in Hyannis, all part of Cape Cod Healthcare, have state of the art treatment facilities and equipment, said Oxley.

The Cuda Women's Imaging Center has a monthly support group for women within two years of a diagnosis of breast cancer. There are other support groups available through the cancer center, the American Cancer Society and Cape Wellness Collaborative.

According to Oxley, once a patient has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there's a support survivorship program that includes resources at the cancer center.

A program called Living Fit for You by Cape Cod Seniors is a six-week program for cancer patients on Cape Cod and there is a breast cancer-specific program available as well.

What should Cape Codders do?

Mammograms are the only tests that have been shown to decrease deaths from breast cancer and there are different guidelines available for screening, said Oxley.

A woman who has an average risk of developing breast cancer should have an annual screening mammograms starting at age 40 and continue as long as she is in good health,

Oxley suggests that every woman should have a risk assessment at age 25 and no later than age 30, especially women who are Black or have Jewish ancestry.

For someone who is at increased risk of breast cancer or someone who wants to have a more in-person evaluation, there is a high risk clinic at the CUDA center in Hyannis, Oxley said.

For people who want to learn more about what they can do, I'd recommend our app from the Institute, which provides research-based tips for how people can reduce their exposure to chemicals of concern in their everyday lives, said Schaider.

Osimo also suggests that people should get more involved in public policy and other community engagement programs.

Rasheek Tabassum Mujib writes about health care and education. Reach her at rmujib@capecodonline.com.

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: Scientists study environmental links to higher breast cancer rates
Off-duty pilot charged with attempted murder for trying to down plane had taken magic mushrooms

An off-duty pilot has pleaded not guilty to 83 charges of attempted murder, after allegedly trying to shut off a jetliners engines and down the aircraft.

Joseph David Emerson, 44, was arrested after the plane landed safely in Portland, Oregon on Sunday, 22 October, according to the local prosecutors office.

According to a federal affidavit seen by The Independent, Mr Emerson told police that he had suffered a nervous breakdown and had been taking psychedelic mushrooms.

Mr Emerson explained to the officers: I didnt feel okay. It seemed like the pilots werent paying attention to what was going on. They didnt it didnt seem right.

Mr Emerson appeared at a brief hearing at a court in Oregon on Tuesday, where he entered pleas of not guilty to all charges against him, via his attorney. He is due to return to court on Wednesday morning for a preventative detention hearing.

He faces a total of 167 state charges  83 counts of attempted murder, 83 counts of reckless endangerment and one count of endangering an aircraft.

On Tuesday the US Attorneys Office for the District of Oregon announced that he had also been charged with one federal count of interfering with flight crew members and attendants.

Joseph David Emerson, left, 44, was arraigned in Multnomah County Circuit Court on Tues., Oct. 24, 2023, in Portland, Oregon (AP)

The incident occurred on Sunday during a flight from Seattle to San Francisco. Authorities said Mr Emerson was travelling in the flight deck jump seat in the cockpit when he suddenly tried to shut down both of the planes engines by pulling the fire extinguisher handles.

He was then subdued by flight crew as the captain and first officer intervened to keep the engines running. Mr Emerson was escorted by a flight attendant to the rear of the aircraft where he was placed in wrist restraints and belted into the aft jump seat.

According to Alaska Airlines Mr Emerson also attempted to grab the handle of the emergency exit during the aircrafts descent before being stopped by a flight attendant.

The flight was diverted to Portland, Oregon, due to the credible threat posed by Mr Emerson and he was arrested upon arrival. His exact motive for his actions remain unclear, though authorities do not believe the incident was an act of terrorism or ideologically-motivated violence, CNN reported.

UPDATE: 12 p.m. Pacific, Oct. 24 Alaska Airlines Flight 2059, operated by Horizon Air https://t.co/af3FCXgOzo pic.twitter.com/8kvKI0c0RY  Alaska Airlines News (@AlaskaAirNews) October 24, 2023

Prior to the incident Mr Emerson was a pilot with Alaska Airlines. According to the airline he joined Alaska Air Group as a Horizon First Officer in August 2001.

In June 2012, Mr Emerson left Horizon to join Virgin America as a pilot but became an Alaska Airlines First Officer following Alaskas acquisition of Virgin America in 2016. He became an Alaska Airlines Captain in 2019.

Alaska Airlines said that following the incident Mr Emerson had been removed from service indefinitely and relieved from all duties at the airline. The company said it was now consulting with its partners in labour regarding his employment status.

In a previous statement the airline said Mr Emerson did not have a history of medical issues and had completed mandatory FAA medical certifications throughout his career.
TechCrunch

Consumers are hungry for a new way of social networking, where trust and safety are paramount and power isn't centralized with a Big Tech CEO in charge... or at least that's what Mozilla believes. The mission-driven tech company behind the Firefox browser, Pocket reader and other apps is now investing its energy into the so-called "fediverse" -- a collection of decentralized social networking applications, like Mastodon, that communicate with one another over the ActivityPub protocol. The idea is to rethink social networking from the ground up.
Two oversized signs addressing Issue One are on display along Fifth Street in Marysville, Ohio.

Backers of Ohio Issue 1 to enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution boast a hefty fundraising advantage over their opponents as both sides tap into out-of-state donors, according to campaign finance reports filed Thursday.

More: Ohio Issue 1: What you need to know about November ballot issue on abortion

Ohioans United for Reproductive Rights, which backs Issue 1, raised $39.4 million since the beginning of the campaign in February and spent $26.3 million as of mid-October, according to campaign finance reports. Nearly $20 million was spent on television ads, which have blanketed the airwaves in support of the measure.

Protect Women Ohio, which opposes Issue 1, raised nearly $27 million since March and had spent nearly $24.3 million of it as of mid-October, according to campaign finance reports. The biggest expense, about $16.5 million, was on broadcast ads, but the campaign also spent $277,000 on yard signs (compared to the "yes" side's $81,500).

Abortion opponents reported spending $14.7 million before August, much of it aimed at passing an amendment to make it harder to amend the state constitution and potentially block the reproductive rights issue. Ohio voters rejected that proposal. The remaining $9.5 million has been spent in recent months, according to reports.

Top donors for the "yes" side include:

Ohioans for Reproductive Freedom PAC, funded by philanthropist Lynn Schusterman and other pro-abortion rights organizations: $8.5 million

Sixteen Thirty Fund, a progressive secret money organization: $5.5 million

Open Society Policy Center, which is affiliated with liberal billionaire George Soros: $3.5 million

The Fairness Project, which advocates for legalizing abortion across the country: $2.4 million

Top donors for the "no" side include:

Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, a national anti-abortion organization: $12.5 million directly

Protect Women Ohio Action Inc., funded by a conservative advocacy organization called The Concord Fund and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America: $9.7 million

The Catholic dioceses in Cincinnati ($1 million), Columbus ($500,000) and Cleveland ($200,000)

Knights of Columbus, a Catholic fraternal service order: $1 million

Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America invested so heavily in Ohio to "fight the abortion industrys perverse profit motive." said Kelsey Pritchard, director of state public affairs. "Big Abortion is attempting to deceive voters into supporting this ballot measure so they can increase their ROI at the expense of unborn lives, women and parents.

On the air

Issue 1 backers have outspent opponents more than 2-to-1 on television ads. As of Thursday, abortion rights supporters reserved $16.2 million for TV ads, and abortion opponents spent $6.9 million, according to Columbus-based ad firm Medium Buying.

The most recent ads from the "yes on 1" side feature women from Columbus and Cleveland talking about the dangers of Ohio's abortion bans, including one that a judge temporarily blocked.

More: What's the future of Ohio's ban on most abortions? Justices raise questions Wednesday

Abortion opponents launched ads focused on parental consent currently required for minors' abortions and a Spanish-language ad appealing to the state's Hispanic population. The proposed constitutional amendment does not expressly address parental consent, and the sides disagree on how it would be affected.

More: What would an Ohio abortion amendment mean for parental consent?

Issue 1's supporters have invested the most in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati, spending $5.75 million in Cleveland alone. Both sides spent about the same amount of money on television ads in the Dayton and Toledo media markets.

Protect Women Ohio spent the most on ads of the Issue 1 opponents ($5.9 million), but Created Equal, Ohio Nation Under God and Cincinnati Right to Life also bought spots.

Early voting is already underway on Issue 1 and Issue 2, which would legalize recreational marijuana in Ohio. Election Day is Nov. 7.

Jessie Balmert is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Ohio Issue 1: Abortion proponents raise more, out-of-state money flows
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  The Oklahoma Police Department says the Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma recently recovered 25 pounds of cocaine during a traffic stop.

Authorities confirm 25 lbs of cocaine was recovered and an arrest was made by officers assigned to the Criminal Interdiction Team of Central Oklahoma (CITCO) on October 15.

Image courtesy Oklahoma City Police Department

The suspect in the fatal Maine shootings is still at large. Residents are sheltering in place

Police say an officer made contact with 40-year-old Romulo Romero of Arizona near I-40 & South Council.

A K-9 team alerted officers to possible narcotics in Romeros vehicle. Upon further investigation, officers found 25 pounds of cocaine hidden inside.

CITCO is a joint effort between OKCPD and the Oklahoma County Sheriffs Office.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
An Oklahoma City man who shot and stabbed his ex-girlfriend in a hospital parking garage was sentenced this week to life in federal prison.

Robert Lee Harrison Jr., 50, was previously found guilty by a federal jury of illegal possession of ammunition, kidnapping, carjacking, and use and discharge of a firearm during a carjacking.

Harrisons ex-girlfriend testified that on March 11, 2022, he forced her into her car at gunpoint as she left work at the Integris Baptist Medical Center parking garage in Oklahoma City.

Prosecutors said Harrison confined her in the car and repeatedly punched her before she escaped.

Harrison then caught her in the elevator lobby of the parking garage, where he shot her eight times before he fled, prosecutors said.

Oklahoma City police officers arrested Harrison the next day, after a brief foot chase.

At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot noted that it was miraculous the woman survived.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma man who shot, stabbed ex-girlfriend sentenced to life in prison
A Harrah man who led police on a wild vehicle chase in January was sentenced this week to 15 years in federal prison.

In Oklahoma City federal court, Hunter Eugene Berry, 23, faced a two-count indictment, charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and with possessing a stolen firearm.

He pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On Jan. 5, law enforcement responded to reports of a reckless driver in northeast Oklahoma County.

Berry, who was driving a stolen vehicle, refused to stop and led law enforcement on a chase that reached speeds of more than 100 miles per hour.

Law enforcement and news helicopter pilots watched Berry drive into oncoming traffic and run several vehicles off the road, including a school bus.

Prosecutors said Berry stole a firearm from a vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence in Oklahoma County and later shot at law enforcement.

Records show Berry has previous convictions, including first-degree burglary, which is a felony.

At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick described the high-speed chase as horrifying and frightening.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Federal prison time for OK man who led authorities on high-speed chase
Heritage Hall School in Oklahoma is one of the private schools where parents can get financial support through Oklahoma's new tax credit program.

The Oklahoma Tax Commission has approved submitted emergency rules to implement the states new school choice tax credits. The approval was unanimous, but the rules must still be approved by Gov. Kevin Stitt .

If Stitt doesnt sign the emergency rules within 45 days from Tuesday, then they automatically expire. Legislative leaders also have said they might tweak the rules during next years session.

Passage of legislation to provide financial support to the families of private school children was a major accomplishment of the 2023 legislative session earlier in the year, but details about how the new program would work have taken months to work out.

On Wednesday, there were indications from a legislative leader that even with the governor's approval of the new rules, the program may still be in flux.

The pro tem has acknowledged there may need to be a legislative fix concerning some of the rules surrounding the School Choice Tax Credits, said Alex Gerszewski, communications director for Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City.

However, he is pleased with the collaboration and progress the Tax Commission has made in formulating the rules thus far. The biggest and most important takeaways are  the money is there for school choice, the application process is set to start on time next month and will help Oklahoma families get the best education for their kids. Here are three things to know about the school choice tax credits:

Who is eligible for school choice tax credits?

Families with children attending private K-12 schools that are accredited by either the State Board of Education or another accrediting association are eligible for refundable tax credits, with the size of the tax credit depending on the households income. Families who make less than $150,000 receive first preference. If the households annual income is under $75,000, families are eligible for a $7,500-per-child credit. If the income is between $75,000 and $150,000, the per-child credit is $7,000; if the income is between $150,000 and $225,000, its $6,500; and if the income is between $225,000 and $250,000, its $6,000. For households with an annual income exceeding $250,000, the maximum credit allowed is $5,000 per student. Families of students who are homeschools can apply for a credit of up to $1,000 per child.

What expenses can the tax credits cover?

According to the commission's provisional rules, the tax credits can cover qualified expenses related to education, which are defined as tuition and fees at an accredited private school. They also include enrollment, registration or application fees; textbook fees; technology fees; activity fees; testing and assessment fees; and school uniform fees, if those fees are paid directly to the school. For home-schooled students, the qualified expenses include tuition and fees for nonpublic online learning programs; academic tutoring services; textbooks, curriculum or other instructional materials; fees for nationally standardized assessments, including those used to determine college admission and advanced placement exams. They also include expenses for tutoring or preparatory courses for those assessments.

When and how can taxpayers apply?

The timeline for submitting applications for the tax credits this year will be Dec. 1, starting at 8:30 a.m., for the 2024 tax year. The application deadlines closes Dec. 31 of the year the educational expenses were incurred, or until the programs annual cap is met, whichever comes first.

Parents or legal guardians of qualifying students will apply online. For more information, visit the Oklahoma Tax Commission.

For the coming year, the legislature capped private school tax credits expenditures at $150 million. The spending cap increases by $50 million each year for another two years.

If there are more applications than the appropriation will cover, families making less than $150,000 a year will get priority receiving the tax credit.

Homeschooling expenses are capped at $5 million per year, or at least 5,000 families.

According to an Associated Press report, at least four states  Arizona, Florida, Iowa and Ohio  that have established taxpayer-funded scholarships to private schools are seeing more families using the programs than planned.

It's especially an issue in states like Arizona and Iowa, where  as in Oklahoma  families whose children were already in private school can now take advantage of public funding.

"It busts the budget because it's taking on as a public expense what's previously been a private cost," said Josh Cowen, an education policy professor at Michigan State University.

Oklahoma avoided that problem with its cap on total expenditures.

The tax credit must be claimed through submitting an application to the Oklahoma Tax Commission  not on an Oklahoma state tax return. Each application must come with an affidavit from the private school in which a student is enrolled, to verify enrollment and the cost of attendance at the school.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: What to know about Oklahoma's new private school tax credit plan
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  After surviving six months inside a southeast Oklahoma City trailer park, an albino python was found and wrangled by a man who lived there.

The thing was found under the same home that management had thought it was under, said one anonymous resident. One of the neighbors came out around 2 this morning and grabbed it. They put it in a hamper, sealed it with duct tape, and left it out front of their home until the office opened up to take care of it.

Python Found

Python Found

Python Found

The snake is now in the hands of Michael Wilkins, of Oklahoma Exotics and Rescue. It had been surviving in the Burntwood Mobile Home Park.

Experts had said previously that after viewing it through their cameras, they believed it was 13 feet long and because residents claimed half the cats were missing in the neighborhood, that it had been eating cats.

No, I would say it is about 8 feet, maybe a little more, said Wilkins while taking out the snake to show Nexstars KFOR. Its a juvenile, maybe a little older and he is not in the best of shape.

Sizeable snake seen slithering in OKC neighborhood creates a python problem

Wilkins said the python hadnt eaten in quite some time.

As youll notice, he is about 8 feet long and has not eaten any cats or any other wild animals recently, Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary posted on their Facebook page.

Honestly, after this weekend, he probably wouldnt even be alive. This weekend would have killed him because were supposed to be seeing a freeze, said Wilkins.

13-foot-long python survives five months eating cats in OKC trailer park

For many, the idea of even an 8-foot python slithering nearby had them on edge.

Im just very, very happy its gone, said a resident identified only as Barbie, who lives with her husband in the neighborhood next to Burntwood.

When I would go outside or head into my garage I was always making sure there wasnt a snake in there, she said. It is just crazy that it was out there that long, Im so happy it has been caught.

Snake seen slithering

When asked if the snake was any danger to those who lived there, Wilkins said it was raised in captivity, meaning its not as dangerous as one raised in the wild. But the strength of their constriction could still be dangerous.

OKC trailer park urges residents to not talk about 13-foot, cat-eating python

The python will now be given the proper food, storage, and medical help it needs, Wilkins assured.

I will start right away getting him antibiotics and getting him rehabbed, said Wilkins. It really has been dangerous for him all this time.

According to residents of Burntwood, it took three different experts and two dogs over the past two months to capture the python. But in the end, a resident captured it in one night.

When on the property of the park, a KFOR reporter was immediately escorted off and was told there was nothing to say. A staff member said an alert would be sent out to residents and that is where their statement would be.

In previous reporting, KFOR found that management had warned residents not to talk to the media about the snake. Yes! Communities, the company that owns the park, has been sent several emails and sent several phone calls but has not replied.

The python will stay with Wilkins and the crew at Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary for now.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
Washington state suspended the certification of a Thurston County cannabis testing lab on Tuesday, citing failures to address various deficiencies.

The Liquor and Cannabis Board issued an emergency suspension of the certification for True Northwest Inc., located at 4139 Libby Road. The lab conducted quality assurance tests on cannabis and cannabis products in the state before being suspended.

The LCB issued the suspension after finding the lab no longer met criteria under state requirements, according to a Wednesday news release.

The lab failed to submit an acceptable corrective action report in response to a deficiency report, the release says. In addition, there were multiple serious deficiencies found during a laboratory assessment and proficiency testing.

When reached for comment, Jamie Deyman, president and owner of True Northwest, said her company has been in business since 2012 and has successfully passed all previous audits.

Were suffering from employee shortage, just like many other industries, and were working with the LCB to resolve the situation, Deyman said.

The state alleges the lab failed to meet accreditation requirements for various reasons. The release notes the lab did not have a lab director on staff, had scales that were not calibrated true and issued incorrect test results to licensees and the public.

The emergency suspension lasts 180 days. During that time, the release says the board will seek a revocation of their certification.

An investigation into the lab began in September when the LCB became aware of deficiencies in the labs quality assurance and quality control tests, according to the release.

RJ Lee, a third-party lab certification monitor, confirmed that True Northwest was out of compliance regarding proficiency testing and failed proficiency tests between June 2022 and May 2023.

Earlier this month, LCB reportedly learned True Northwest no longer had a lab director on site. LCB and RJ Lee audited the lab and found multiple deficiencies, including five that were described as critical and posed a significant public safety concern, per the release.

Following the audit, LCB placed the lab on administrative hold. This meant it was prohibited from conducting new tests.
Charlotte Pipe and Foundry property near the intersection of S. Clarkson Street and W. Morehead St. near Bank of America Stadium. The company was offered $35 million by local governments in Stanly County to move its plant there from uptown Charlotte. (John D. Simmons/jsimmons@charlotteobserver.com)

Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company, one of the citys oldest businesses, celebrated the grand opening of a $460 million facility Thursday in Oakboro.

The business operated a cast iron foundry in uptown for more than 100 years. Its new, state-of-the-art foundry is 35 miles away on 700 acres in Stanly County. Charlotte Pipe makes cast iron, plastic pipe and fittings for plumbing applications.

The companys former 55-acre plant at South Clarkson Street and West Summit Avenue is near Bank of America Stadium. It has long been considered a potential site for a new stadium for the Carolina Panthers.

Bradford Muller, a Charlotte Pipe spokesman, said the company does not have any immediate plans for the property, which is almost vacant of employees. CBRE is helping the company put the site on the market for a potential buyer.

Charlotte Pipes board of directors decided in April 2019 to relocate, and the move to Oakboro was announced in 2020.

Roddey Dowd Jr., vice chairman for the companys board of directors, said the new location is one of the most technologically advanced foundries in the world.

While our uptown Charlotte location has provided stakeholders with a solid platform to deliver outstanding results, our new Oakboro Foundry will allow a more efficient layout of our plant and equipment and give us the flexibility to expand to meet future needs, Dowd said in a news release.

CEO Hooper Hardison said the move was a strategic one to improve production so the company can continue service for the next 100 years. He also said it will open a new window of economic growth for Stanly County.

Even better, the region is already home to many of the Companys associates who will benefit from reduced commute times and increased amenities within their work environment, Hardison added.

The Oakboro plant started operations in early September, with more than 530 employees. Another 500 construction workers were in Oakboro for three years prior, working to open the site.

Charlotte Pipe invested $58 million in the plants environmental system and controls, which includes a 70,000-megawatt substation  enough to power 70,000 houses. A rail spur was added to connect to a short railway in central North Carolina.

Founded in 1901, the Charlotte-based company has seven plants across the U.S. Its subsidiary Neenah Enterprises, Inc. is based in Wisconsin and operates three municipal casting plants in the country.
One fatality and multiple rescues were reported in a Wednesday afternoon fire at Touchette Elderly Apartments in Cahokia Heights.

The five-alarm fire was reported at 2:13 p.m. at the Bond Avenue facility, said Assistant Fire Chief Sharon Davis of the Camp Jackson Fire Department. Firefighters from multiple departments from nearby communities were called in to assist.

Davis confirmed that one fatality happened, but no other details were available.

Over 50 people were rescued from the complex, according to Fire Chief Chris Davis. Residents were taken to temporary shelter nearby.

Joshua Carter contributed to this report.
She just wanted to see their culture in the classroom.

Expecting her third baby upon landing in Delaware, Amna Latif was ready to raise her children in the First State. She followed her husband to the University of Delaware while finishing her own doctorate in education. They had already followed one another before, all the way from Pakistan.

In no time, her oldest daughter bounced around daycares.

I tried to find a place where my daughter could have a sense of belonging, Latif remembered.

To end this journey, Latif would launch her own school. The now-director would take her degree and develop a curriculum dedicated to integrating different cultures and the study of Islam, all starting from inside her own home. Enrollment grew exponentially. Today, Tarbiyah School serves just under 200 students in Newark.

Amna Latif, director of the Tarbiyah School, oversees the food program that provides meals for children throughout northern Delaware and as far south as Dover. The Bear school has worked to distribute 1.3 million meals since the start of the pandemic.

Latif knew she couldnt be the only Asian Delawarean who hoped for this reflection, even on a small scale. Last month, she was reminded.

Make Us Visible Delaware just launched this fall, under the mission to push for more Asian American history to infuse with K-12 curricula in Delaware. The budding arm of a national organization hopes to engage with residents, schools and lawmakers throughout the state to see legislation crafted to the same end, followed by active implementation. These hopes mirror efforts in Connecticut, New Jersey, Florida and others.

The group brings together educators, parents, local school board members and a college student. And its primary goals are two-fold  to reduce anti-Asian violence and bullying, as well as celebrate and humanize the role of Asian Americans in U.S. history.

Tarbiyah School, founded in 2009, aims to provide a learning environment infused with Islamic principles, so they can achieve the highest level of character, creativity and academic excellence, in Newark, Delaware.

The way they teach Asian American history right now is traumatizing, said Devin Jiang, co-founder and junior at University of Delaware, sitting in a Newark coffee shop. His mind jumped to Japanese internment camps, Chinese railroad labor, historic immigration restrictions.

And this makes people see Asian Americans as separate from American history. They're like victims, right? They're not part of the American story.

His team wants to change that. And theyre confident a state of educators will jump on board.

Pop quiz: 20 facts to know for the next Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Oh, them Americans'

Make Us Visible Delaware leaders host a launch event  under the mission to push for more Asian American history to infuse with K-12 curricula in Delaware  in the Chinese American Community Center, of Hockessin, on Sept. 30, 2023.

He was raised in Lewes.

Y.F. Lou has led most of his life in the U.S., as the now-Christina School Board member moved to the beachside city alongside his Chinese family when he was young. His childhood came with identity crises. He hardly saw himself in most other classmates and residents. He was often treated as foreign by default.

As he grew up, he caught himself believing it.

As I had conversations with people, I always had a tendency to slip up by saying, Oh, them Americans, he said, fellow members nodding beside him. I'm like, wait a minute. Why am I saying them Americans? I am American. Why do I still not completely feel that I am part of this country?

Now a father himself, Lou finds himself introspective. More conversations are needed, he decided, on the accomplishments of Asian people right here at home, to highlight their roles in American history that often go untold.

There are more than 22 million Asian Americans  about 6% of the national population  marking the fastest growing racial or ethnic group among eligible voters, according to Pew Research Center, with nearly 50 ethnic groups and some 100 languages represented.

Delawares New Castle County is slightly above overall statistics, at 6.3%, having seen a 44% increase in Asian population from 2010 to 2021, according to Census data. In the same data, Christina school district residents reflect roughly 7%.

We need to do a better job as parents, we need to do a better job as community leaders, Lou said. Make us visible is not a platform to air grievances of racism, per se, but it is somewhere we're going to start the conversation, saying: Hey, we are Americans. We help build this country.

He believes the classroom is the right place to start.

University of Delaware: Jewish students host hundreds for Shabbat at UD, as many communities watch tragedy unfold

A long road ahead for Asian American studies in Delaware

Devin Jiang speaks at a Make Us Visible Delaware event  launching under the mission to push for more Asian American history to infuse with K-12 curricula in Delaware  in the Chinese American Community Center, of Hockessin, on Sept. 30, 2023.

George Yod Dupont was a Thai immigrant who fought in the American Civil War for the North and participated in key battles like Gettysburg and Chancellorsville.

Saint Malo Village was the first Asian American settlement, formed in the 1700s on the shores of Louisiana. Nicknamed the Manilamen, many of these Filipino settlers later joined the U.S. army to fight in the War of 1812, when they werent redefining the shrimping industry.

Echoing a history of exclusionary legislation nationally and in certain states, Washington had its own alien land laws blocking Asian American immigrants from buying or renting land in the state well into the 1930s. That is, until 1939, when Filipino immigrant Pio DeCano successfully fought the law all the way to the Supreme Court and saw it struck down.

Most racist laws against Asians remained in force until the late 1940s, when civil-rights activism defeated similar restrictions on Black Americans. As Columbia University's Professor Mae M. Ngai noted in a 2021 Atlantic essay, racism is a notable part of the Asian American experience, past and present.

National: Violence, bigotry toward Palestinian Americans spiking across US

More: ACLU points to one Delaware charter school to spotlight lessons in inclusive culture

This is American history. This is not somebody else's history. These are Americans who have made these contributions, said Naveed Baqir, flipping through pages of a Make Us Visible coloring book with other brief historic profiles. People who fought in the Revolutionary War, who fought for independence. Asian Americans. How many how many Americans know about them? How many Asian kids know about them?

Baqir  a fellow Christina board member, member of Delaware's chapter and husband to educator Amna Latif  sees this effort as elevating American history, not adding or taking away.

His team has a long road ahead.

Devin Jiang speaks at a Make Us Visible Delaware event  launching under the mission to push for more Asian American history to infuse with K-12 curricula in Delaware  in the Chinese American Community Center, of Hockessin, on Sept. 30, 2023.

Some six laws requiring AAPI studies have passed across the country. Make Us Visible, alongside other affinity organizations, students, parents and educators, passed legislation in 2022 to make New Jersey the second state to require the inclusion of AAPI history in K-12 schools. Connecticut was the first, the same year, with a committee-led bill carrying 99 co-sponsors and legislative support from both the Progressive and Conservative Caucuses.

For the New England state, last fall marked the start of implementation. Organizers say much work remains.

We knew all along that it wasn't just going to be about people signing off on a piece of paper, said Jenny JHD Heikkila Diaz, co-chair on Asian Pacific American Coalition of Connecticut, among her many activist roles in the state.

With nearly 170 school districts and local control laws in Connecticut, advocates now continue to monitor implementation in schools. JHD has been working with educators across the state on strategies, materials and more as the Activist in Residence with UConns Asian & Asian American Studies Institute.

We don't want this to be a course that only some students will take, she said. We want this to be integrated across every student in Connecticut who attend who attends public schools want to integrate across their K-12 experience.

JHD credits much of the success so far to collaboration across groups  including constituents who gave input on possible elements to add to curricula.

Neighbors: Murphy signs bills making NJ second state to implement Asian American studies curriculum

Back in Delaware, a different historic legislation passed in 2021, requiring all Delaware public schools  both district and charter  to infuse instruction of Black History and experience into K-12 curricula. Delaware Department of Education reports show HB198's implementation has varied across districts so far, with some stakeholders questioning accountability measures.

Gathered around a coffee shop table in October, Make Us Visible Delaware shared similar aims, hoping to build from a community launch just days before. The group said it saw nearly a hundred people, including elected officials and residents, pack a room in the Chinese American Community Center, with discussion and momentum flowing.

Amna Latif was just one voice in the audience.

Within the goals of this Delaware group, she hears echoes of her own hopes for her kids, and for her school. Theyre the same hopes that led her to building the growing Tarbiyah School community in New Castle County.

Tarbiyah School, founded in 2009, aims to provide a learning environment infused with Islamic principles, so they can achieve the highest level of character, creativity and academic excellence, in Newark, Delaware.

She has already agreed to use the Make Us Visible coloring book for younger learners, as a starting point, and hopes to see more spread.

I feel that each one of us needs to feel a sense of belonging in this country, said the director and principal. Making that connection with history fulfills that for a lot of our students, for them to be able to see that they have ownership, to see how they are viewed in this country.

That kind of connection is extremely important  and history provides that for us."

Got a story? Kelly Powers covers race, culture and equity for Delaware Online and USA TODAY Network Northeast, with a focus on education. Contact her at kepowers@gannett.com or (231) 622-2191, and follow her on Twitter @kpowers01.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Group aims to boost Asian American history in Delaware K-12 schools
After years of debate, the government's controversial Online Safety Bill, which aims to make the internet safer for children, has become law.

It seeks to force tech firms to take more responsibility for the content on their platforms.

Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said it "ensures the online safety of British society not only now, but for decades to come."

But critics have raised concerns about the implications for privacy.

WhatsApp is among the messaging services to threaten to withdraw from the UK over the act.

What is the Online Safety Bill?

The new law puts the onus on firms to protect children from some legal but harmful material, with the regulator, Ofcom, being given extra enforcement powers.

It introduces new rules such as requiring pornography sites to stop children viewing content by checking ages.

Platforms will also need to show they are committed to removing illegal content including:

child sexual abuse

controlling or coercive behaviour

extreme sexual violence

illegal immigration and people smuggling

promoting or facilitating suicide

promoting self-harm

animal cruelty

selling illegal drugs or weapons

terrorism

Other new offences have been created, including cyber-flashing - sending unsolicited sexual imagery online - and the sharing of "deepfake" pornography, where AI is used to insert someone's likeness into pornographic material.

The act also includes measures to make it easier for bereaved parents to obtain information about their children from tech firms.

What else does the Online Safety Bill do?

Powers in the act that could be used to compel messaging services to examine the contents of encrypted messages for child abuse material have proved especially controversial.

Platforms like WhatsApp, Signal and iMessage say they cannot access or view anybody's messages without destroying existing privacy protections for all users, and have threatened to leave the UK rather than compromise message security.

Proton, a mail platform with a focus on privacy, says it would be prepared to fight the government in court if it is asked to alter its end-to-end encryption.

"The internet as we know it faces a very real threat," said Proton CEO Andy Yen, who says the bills gives the government the power to access people's private messages. "No-one would tolerate this in the physical world, so why do we in the digital world?"

The government has said the regulator Ofcom would only ask tech firms to access messages once "feasible technology" had been developed.

Wikipedia has also previously said it would not be able to obey some of the act such as age verification

While the act is often spoken about as a tool for reining in Big Tech, government figures have suggested more than 20,000 small businesses will also be affected.

Who will regulate the Online Safety Bill?

Breaking the rules could result in fines of up to 10% of global revenue for tech companies, or 18m - whichever is bigger. Their bosses could also potentially face prison time as a punishment.

Ofcom says it will draw up codes of conduct that will provide guidance on how to stay within the new rules, with its first draft codes coming on 9 November. Its boss has also addressed some of the concerns raised about its new role.

"Ofcom is not a censor, and our new powers are not about taking content down. Our job is to tackle the root causes of harm," said the regulator's CEO, Dame Melanie Dawes.

"Importantly, we'll also take full account of people's rights to privacy and freedom of expression," she added.

What do campaigners say?

The Equality and Human Rights Commission welcomed the law, calling it "a vital first step in addressing harmful content and behaviour online."

Sir Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said the law "will mean that children up and down the UK are fundamentally safer in their everyday lives."

He added this is partly "thanks to the incredible campaigning of abuse survivors and young people".

Campaigners have included Ian Russell, whose 14-year-old daughter Molly took her own life in 2017 after viewing suicide and self-harm content on sites such as Instagram and Pinterest.

However, fact-checking organisation Full Fact, which supported the bill, said "retrograde changes" made to it meant it did not go far enough "to address the way that platforms treat harmful misinformation and disinformation."

Full Fact's head of policy and advocacy Glen Tarman continued: "Our freedom of expression is left in the hands of self-interested internet companies, while dangerous health misinformation is allowed to spread rampant."
Maria Callas at a recital in Paris on her farewell tour in 1973 (-)

A quarter of a century in the making, Greece's capital Athens on Thursday opens a museum honouring legendary soprano Maria Callas, billed as the first of its kind in the world.

Designed to mark the centenary of her birth, the museum showcases over 1,300 exhibits including Callas's school scrapbook, inscribed books and sheet music, opera dresses and photographs, organisers said.

"The great diva, Maria Callas, returns home," Athens mayor Kostas Bakoyannis said Wednesday at a media tour of the venue.

"We are very proud of this first museum that combines technology and lived experience," he said.

A listed four-storey building from the 1920s that previously housed a hotel, the custard-coloured museum near central Syntagma Square took over a decade to complete at a cost of 1.5 million euros ($1.6 million).

The collection began 24 years ago, when the city acquired some Callas items at a Paris auction.

"This is a museum for all the senses," said Konstantinos Dedes, one of the project supervisors.

The tour begins on the second floor, where visitors step onto a forest scene as Callas -- silhouetted on a stage at the back wall -- sings an aria from Bellini's opera Norma.

It was one of the defining performances of an illustrious career spanning more than three decades which saw Callas dubbed "La Divina" -- the divine.

Another room recreates the night view from the diva's balcony in Paris, complete with flowing curtains.

There is also a recording of Callas giving a masterclass at the Juilliard School of music in New York in the early 1970s.

- 'Don't overact' -

"You don't have to overact," she sternly tells students, urging them to make use of their face and eyes.

Among the collection's top exhibits are the soprano's personal photo album, her backstage mirror and her prescription glasses, which she almost never wore in public.

There are also monogrammed matchbooks given to her by airlines and hotels on her final world tour in 1973-74, and the menu of the fateful Venice party in 1957 where Callas met Greek tycoon Aristotle Onassis .

She ended up divorcing her Italian industrialist husband Giovanni Meneghini for Onassis, who later left her to marry former US first lady Jackie Kennedy.

Dozens of Greek institutions and private collectors, among them the late artists Alekos Fassianos, Dimitris Mytaras and Panayiotis Tetsis, have made contributions to the new museum, the city said.

Some of the items have been donated by Milan's La Scala, the Metropolitan Opera, the Teatro La Fenice in Venice and the Arena di Verona, where Callas made her Italian debut in 1947, it said.

"We aimed to charm those who don't know (Callas) and don't listen to opera... and help them understand what made her stand out," the museum's exhibition designer Erato Koutsoudaki told AFP.

Tickets cost 10 euros.

Born in New York to Greek emigre parents in 1923, Sophia Cecilia Anna Maria Kalogeropoulos lived in Athens from 1937 to 1945 after her parents separated.

"As soon as my mother realised my vocal qualities, she decided to turn me into a child prodigy," Callas later wrote. "But child prodigies never have a real, genuine childhood."

The building in Athens where Callas briefly lived with her mother and sister is to become a music academy, Bakoyannis said Wednesday.

After attending singing classes at the National Conservatory, she made her professional debut with the Royal Opera of Athens in 1941.

Callas retired after a final stage appearance in Sapporo, Japan in 1974. She died in Paris of a heart attack in 1977, aged 53.

Her ashes were scattered in the Aegean Sea two years later.

A biopic of Callas starring Angelina Jolie, titled Maria, is due to be released next year.

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Actor Jack Lemmon, as Felix Unger, stands in a kitchen and talks to actor Walter Matthau, as Oscar Madison, in a still from the film The Odd Couple in 1968. | Paramount Pictures via Getty Images

If you want a quick course in how societys dress standards have fallen, rewatch the classic 1968 movie, The Odd Couple, as my family did the other day.

Oscar Madison, played by Walter Matthau, is supposed to be a slob. But if you lifted his character off the screen and put him into everyday life in 2023, he would be considered well-dressed. He wears a suit, white dress shirt and tie for a date. In one scene, he goes to a restaurant dressed in a T-shirt and a sport coat  something that probably raised eyebrows in 1968 but would be acceptably stylish today.

In 55 years, we have become, to be concise, a nation of slobs that either would make Oscar Madison blush or push his character over a dark cliff into a space where he has to never bathe and wear the same shorts and T-shirt for weeks on end to mark himself as a true slob.

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate had to pass a resolution to reinstate its dress code because Sen. John Fetterman, D-Pa., insisted on coming to the Senate wearing shorts and a hoodie. Hop in a time machine and try explaining that one in 1968.

Meanwhile, a recent survey by the American Bar Association found that 85% of Americans believe incivility is worse today than a decade ago. Every week, it seems, someone acts out dangerously on an airplane. Political rallies often have an edge teetering on violence.

Is there a connection?

For an answer, I turned to Judith Rasband, author, consultant and founder and CEO of the Conselle Institute of Image Management. She is a former Deseret News fashion columnist. She wrote a universal dress code to help people project themselves confidently in any situation, and she has started a podcast called Clothes Matter.

Her answer to the question is an unequivocal Yes.

Related

Its the slobs who are winning, absolutely, now, she told me in a phone interview. And the trend toward more casual dress, which accelerated during the pandemic, affects a lot more than clothing.

Casual means sloppy, she said. It takes everything down. Language immediately goes down. Manners go down, morals go down, confidence goes down, ambition goes down, productivity goes down. Everything goes down.

The only thing that goes up is your weight.

The tagline at the end of Rasbands emails says it all: The way you look affects the way you think, the way you feel, the way you speak, the way you act or behave, and only then ... the way others react or respond to you.

Clothing may not be the sole reason why people act poorly in public or why so many treat others with disrespect, but it is a factor that shouldnt be ignored.

This doesnt mean Rasband would have everyone in tuxedos and formal dresses. She wants people to dress intentionally and strategically, in a way that is accurate, appropriate, authentic, attractive and affordable. Sometimes, its appropriate to dress down, but Rasband believes what we wear ought to reflect our core values and personality  a difficult goal for people who may never have explored those before.

No, the worlds problems wont be solved by a quick trip to the clothing store. But if it ever became fashionable again to dress in a way that conveys self-respect, it follows that more of us might treat others with respect, too. Until then, on all sides we face the irony of a generation that conforms to bland mediocrity in the name of self-expression.

As I end the interview, the internet tells me about another disruptive passenger, this time on an Air Canada flight, who apparently kicked and screamed for more than an hour after being restrained onboard.

I wonder, would this have happened if everyone onboard was dressed nicely? I dont know, but I do know such things were rare when I was a child and people actually did dress nicely for air travel.

The global trend toward the far side of Oscar Madison must be maddening to Rasband. She doesnt show it, however. Instead, she talks of the opportunities a Senate debate over dress codes can bring. She talks about new editions of her books, her new podcast and her daily work as a consultant.

Im going to get loud and large, she said.

Yes, the slobs may be winning, but they need to beware.
Ecuadorean migrants walk across the Darien Gap from Colombia into Panama, hoping to reach the U.S., in October 2022. (Fernando Vergara / Associated Press)

Children are now mainstays in migration policy debates and news, with unaccompanied minors at the border drawing much attention over the past decade.

The systemic violence and poverty that displace thousands of children from Central and South America have a long history. While these factors have only worsened in recent years because of climate change, environmental degradation and the human and economic costs of COVID-19, they follow decades of destructive U.S. intervention in the region  and of our inability to reform our immigration system.

The U.S. governments failure to pass significant immigration reform since 1986 is one reason children end up as workers. U.S. policies havent kept pace with the high rates of displacement from migrants countries of origin, nor our need for workers. Without pathways for legal migration, many families, individual adults and unaccompanied children have little choice but to migrate without authorization and remain so long term; 2019 data indicate that 62% of undocumented migrants have been in the U.S. for at least 10 years.

Read more: Low wages, lousy shifts, little room for advancement: Immigrant workers describe on-the-job discrimination

While undocumented, immigrants lack social security numbers and work permits, making them vulnerable to low wages and workplace violations, including wage theft and verbal and physical abuse. If they push back, they risk job loss at best and deportation at worst.

These conditions encourage the morally unconscionable  and until recently largely ignored  labor exploitation of child migrants under the age of 18. Under such poor working conditions, some adults are unable to make ends meet and rely on their childrens work to do so.

The unaccompanied minors who cross the border each year  in 2021 and 2022, the government released more than 100,000  face particular challenges. Some arrive at the doorstep of relatives or other immigrant adults who cant afford to take them in, so they must find a way to support themselves. Others get sponsored by nonfamily members who may exploit them for labor. Dozens of child welfare caseworkers estimate that around two-thirds of unaccompanied migrant children end up working full time, according to a New York Times investigation.

Read more: Here's what both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border fight keep forgetting

The stories of child migrant laborers are harrowing. They take on late-night, early-morning or 12-hour shifts that keep them out of school. They work on farms, at garment and food manufacturing factories as well as meat and processing plants, in construction and sawmills  often dangerous jobs with few protections.

Despite media portrayals of this system as a new economy, historian Ivon Padilla-Rodriguez has documented that the success of industries such as agriculture, manufacturing and construction in the Southwest relied on child labor as far back as the early 20th century. My dad arrived in Los Angeles from El Salvador as a 17-year-old in the 1970s. He immediately became a garment worker in denim factories across downtown Los Angeles and later installed carpet for a man who refused to pay him.

Los Angeles remains a center for this problem. My research studies the lives of undocumented young adults who arrived in the U.S. as unaccompanied minors from 2003 through 2013 and now live in L.A. Ive spoken to children who have worked in garment factories that sew clothes for companies including Forever 21, J. Crew and Old Navy. Others worked in hotels such as the Ritz Carlton downtown or cleaned the homes of the rich and famous as live-in domestic workers.

Given my research focus, I often get asked what the government is doing about this child labor epidemic and what regular people can do about it. My response: It depends how far you want to go.

Read more: Opinion: Suddenly the U.S. is facing a problem we thought we'd solved: Rampant child labor

Perhaps counterintuitively to many Americans, part of the equation is paying attention to these youth before they cross our border by granting them what anthropologist Lauren Heidbrink and other scholars identify as el derecho a no migrar  the right not to migrate.

Young people need alternatives to migration to make a living. That shouldnt mean aiding foreign governments in deporting migrants, as the Biden administration recently pledged to aid Panamas government. It should mean investing in community-based programming to integrate children into their home society, such as Colectivo Vida Digna in Guatemala, which aims to reduce youth migration by supporting Indigenous teens and their families in reclaiming Indigenous cultural practices and strengthening communities so they can build futures without leaving their home country.

Even with those programs, some children will migrate to the U.S. and need shielding from exploitation. That may sound uncontroversial in theory, but the current policy landscape shows little willingness to widen the social safety net in practice, even for children and youth.

Read more: Granderson: Rolling back child-labor laws? Has the GOP never read Dickens?

Take, for example, that last month a federal judge ruled illegal, but declined to end, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, a program implemented by executive order in 2012 that offers work authorization and a stay on deportation for undocumented youth brought to the U.S. as children. Courts have debated the policy for more than a decade, and with the Supreme Court expected to review the policy a third time, even these longtime U.S. residents  once touted by President Obama as talented, driven, patriotic young people  are left in limbo.

Then theres the immigration program meant to provide vulnerable immigrant children a path to lawful residence and citizenship: the Special Immigrant Juvenile Status designation created in 1990. A recent report found that it has produced avoidable delays, inconsistent denial rates, and a growing backlog of petitioners, putting unaccompanied youths lives on hold and leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

All the while, states across the U.S. are actively moving to weaken child labor laws for all children, immigrants or not.

Childrens futures are under threat in the U.S., and stalled immigration policy is a culprit. Protecting children and child workers requires moving forward on immigration. Failing to do so may haunt us for generations to come.

Stephanie L. Canizales is an assistant professor of sociology at UC Merced and the author of the forthcoming book Sin Padres, Ni Papeles.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
In less than 15 months, Congress will count and certify the votes from the electoral college. It is truly frightening that House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), from the far right of the Republican Party, might have a prominent role in the process.

If Republicans keep control of the House in the November 2024 elections, it seems likely they will keep Johnson as speaker given their bitter divisions and difficulty in selecting someone for the position after Kevin McCarthys ouster. Johnson was the primary proponent in the House of a way to overturn the 2020 election and keep Donald Trump in the presidency. He can be expected to do the same in 2024 if Trump is the Republican nominee and loses to President Biden.

Read more: Calmes: Who is House Speaker Mike Johnson? Matt Gaetz's victory lap says it all

Johnson, a lawyer, led the House Republicans in promoting a baseless legal theory that state legislatures have sole power to select and appoint electors. This so-called independent state legislature theory maintains that a state legislature can allocate its electors however it wants, regardless of the popular vote and a law that requires that electors go to the presidential candidate who won the popular vote. The hope was that Republican-controlled legislatures in states won by Biden would allocate their electors to Trump and give him the presidency. This theory was rejected by the Supreme Court in June in Moore vs. Harper.

Every court to consider any of the legal claims of Trump and his supporters like Johnson  whether state or federal judges, whether Democratic or Republican judges  found no basis for overturning the decision of the voters and the electoral college. None found evidence of voter fraud that would affect the outcome of the election, which Biden won by a huge margin.

Read more: Opinion: Thanks to the Supreme Court, U.S. elections are safe from at least one threat

Johnson, however, did all he could to promote false claims about the election process. He was a leader in supporting a lawsuit by Texas to have the Supreme Court decertify election results in four states won by Biden: Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

He argued that state officials had changed aspects of their election procedures, such as by making it easier to cast absentee ballots, before the November 2020 election. Johnson claimed these changes were invalid and therefore no electors should be counted from these states. Courts consistently upheld these changes by state election officials as necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Johnson even circulated an email asking his Republican colleagues to sign on to the amicus brief in the Supreme Court supporting the state of Texas lawsuit and the suppression of electoral votes from four states. Johnson said in the email that Trump specifically asked me to contact all Republican Members of the House and Senate today and request that all join on to our brief. He added, ominously, that Trump said he will be anxiously awaiting the final list to review.

More than 100 House Republicans signed the brief. Law professor John Eastman filed a brief for Trump in the Supreme Court advancing this same unfounded theory. Eastman is now facing possible disbarment in California for his role in trying to undermine the election and has been indicted in Georgia on charges of trying to overturn election results in that state.

Read more: John Eastman's long, strange trip to the heart of the Jan. 6 investigation

The Supreme Court quickly rejected the Texas lawsuit. In a brief opinion, the court explained that Texas had no basis to sue to block the ability of other states to participate in the electoral college.

Undaunted, Johnson tried to get the House to refuse to certify the results of the election. He and 138 other Republican members voted against certification on Jan. 6, 2021, despite Biden winning the popular vote by more than 7 million votes and decisively winning in the electoral college.

Johnson repeatedly spread Trumps false claim that the election was rigged. He said in a radio interview that a software system used for voting was suspect because it came from Hugo Chavezs Venezuela. He declared, You know the allegations about these voting machines, some of them being rigged with this software by Dominion, theres a lot of merit to that.

Now that Johnson is House speaker, there is no telling what he will do to undermine the election should Trump become the GOP nominee. Given his extreme loyalty to Trump and his efforts to spread outrageous lies and to nullify the 2020 election, the peril for the democratic process is very great.

Erwin Chemerinsky is a contributing writer to Opinion and the dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law. His latest book is "Worse Than Nothing: The Dangerous Fallacy of Originalism."

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Editors Note: Danielle Campoamor is freelance writer and reporter, formerly of TODAY and NBC. The views expressed here are her own. Read more opinion on CNN.

On the morning of May 24, 2022, my then-editors at TODAY.com were ready to send me to Ukraine to cover Russias unprovoked war. I had done everything necessary to prepare: I completed a three-day hostile environment training; purchased tourniquets and other battlefield medical equipment to carry on my person at all times; facilitated difficult conversations with my then-partner, about the worst case scenario and how he would discuss the unthinkable with our two young sons.

Danielle Campoamor - Ashley Batz

Then, I received a phone call as news alerts flooded my phone, email and Slack: A reported 19 children and two teachers were shot and killed inside two fourth-grade classrooms at Robb Elementary School In Uvalde, Texas.

I would not be traveling to Ukraine, my senior editor told me. Instead, I had a one-way ticket to Texas, where the newer and more immediate story was breaking. There was no need to travel halfway around the world to cover the devastating impact of weapons of war when that impact was being felt at home by children nearly the same age as my firstborn son.

On Thursday it happened again.

While on a 10-hour flight to Israel to cover the ongoing Israel-Hamas war as an independent journalist, I received notifications of a mass shooting in Maine. As I was planning on-the-ground coverage  including face-to-face interviews with grieving family members whose loved ones were either killed or kidnapped by Hamas, and while collecting voice memos from innocent civilians trapped in Gaza  I read the initial reports with a very familiar feeling of dread: Multiple people killed. More than a dozen others injured. The shooter still at large. An entire community paralyzed by fear, sheltering-in-place, and waiting for the sun to rise and the nightmare that is gun violence to be over.

I was traveling across the globe to cover a devastating war that has left thousands reported dead, many of them children  and all the while the devastation of yet another mass shooting was being felt at home.

Its not hyperbolic to say that unfettered access to weapons of war have turned this nations schools, parades, churches and synagogues, nightclubs, health care clinics, movie theaters, malls, grocery stores, outdoor concerts and bowling alleys into potential slaughterhouses. Guns are now the leading cause of death among children living in the United States, surpassing car crashes, overdoses and Covid-19, according to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In 2023, it took the country just about two months to surpass 100 mass shootings nationwide. In 2022, the US surpassed 100 mass shootings by March 19. In 2021, by the end of March.

In other words, its getting worse.

In Texas, students in the seventh grade and higher are offered battlefield trauma care, including how to apply tourniquets and chest steals. Earlier this year, policymakers in the state introduced legislation that would expand these mandated offerings to children as young as the third grade.

In Uvalde, the medics who were finally able to breach the classrooms and tend to the children who survived the massacre described a scene with so much blood. Law enforcement personnel were seen on body cameras sobbing and vomiting after witnessing the carnage firsthand, all carried out by an 18-year-old armed with an assault rifle.

Now, in Maine, were watching it all unfold again.

And like war-time soldiers, those who either lost a loved one to gun violence, survived a mass shooting or witnessed one firsthand are suffering negative mental health outcomes, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety.

And like soldiers who return from war, they are often not able to obtain adequate, sustainable mental health care.

Ashbey Beasley  who, on July 4, 2022, ran for her life alongside her 6-year-old son as a man with an AR-15 style weapon opened fire on a parade in Highland Park, Illinois, killing seven and injuring dozens of others  told me on Thursday that in the last year she has learned how critical mental health care and community resources are to mass shooting survivors.

Some people will not be able to work. Some people dont have health insurance or paid time off to take care of themselves, she continued. Expanding the conversation to include every person who was present at these mass shooting events means they will be counted in the total number of people who need resources. And they will need it. Over 30 people were killed or injured in Lewiston, Maine. The town has a population of about 38,000. The entire state has only one Level 1 Trauma Hospital. Everyone  witnesses, loved ones, family members, first responders, health care workers and community members  are impacted.

In the era of a 24-hour news cycle covering two international conflicts, an unprecedented rolling back of constitutional and human rights, the ramifications of an unparalleled global pandemic, an opioid epidemic and the scourge of gun violence, its not a stretch to say that as human beings we have always carried with us the capacity to experience or bear witness to multiple horrors simultaneously.

So, to be clear: What has happened in Maine  like what happened in Uvalde, Highland Park, Sandy Hook, Buffalo, Las Vegas, Pulse, Parkland, San Jose, Columbine, Aurora, and more  does not negate what is happening in Israel, Gaza, Ukraine and beyond. And visa versa. One horrific act does not mean another should be ignored. Violence is violence. Lives stolen are forever lost, erasing bright futures and leaving communities destroyed and generations forever scarred.

But as a journalist who has covered both bloody conflicts waged overseas and countless acts of gun violence here at home, it is not lost on me that the horror of war is not some foreign concept that requires long flights, battlefield medical equipment and flak jackets with the word PRESS to adequately cover. Instead, those horrors are an American reality, experienced in quiet towns, local supermarkets and childrens classrooms.

Now in Israel, I keep thinking about what Uvalde dad Brett Cross, who lost his son, Uzi, in the Robb Elementary School shooting, told me as he heard about the shooting in Maine:

I know youre headed into a war zone, he messaged. But Im here  were all here  in a war zone, too. A war zone that is brought about by lax gun laws and failure by our politicians. A war zone that is uniquely American.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Editors note: Abood Okal, who spent part of his childhood in Gaza, lives in Massachusetts. The views in this commentary are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

It started out as a family vacation. Abood Okal, 36, traveled to Gaza in late September with his wife Wafa Abuzayda and their 1-year-old son Yousef to visit relatives they hadnt seen in years.

Now, they and several other family members  most of whom have US citizenship  are stranded in Gaza, unable to get out and fearful that they could lose their lives at any time as Israeli airstrikes in the region intensify.

Abood Okal with his wife Wafa and infant son Yousef - Courtesy Abood Okal

Okal, a cancer researcher for a Massachusetts pharmaceutical company, is one of about 500 to 600 dual nationals and US permanent residents trapped in Gaza and hoping to be evacuated or to be allowed to exit Gaza by crossing the border into Egypt.

For decades, his familys home has been in northern Gaza, but the constant bombardment, and Israeli orders to evacuate, led them to flee. Now a couple dozen family and friends are holed up in a borrowed house in southern Gaza, hoping to make their way across the Egyptian border at the first opportunity.

Each day, Okal faces the challenge of figuring out how to find food for his extended family amid dwindling provisions available at local shops in southern Gaza, while navigating streets rendered all but impassable after being struck by Israeli bombs.

He says that never far from mind is the risk of fresh shelling that could strike his household at any time, as Israel continues a bombing campaign in Gaza that already has claimed thousands of lives, according to the Hamas-controlled Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza. He also worries about a possible Israeli invasion, which he fears could make it even harder for his family to get to Egypt.

The brutal Hamas attacks on October 7 precipitated an Israeli military response, with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) ordering Gazans to relocate to the South as it bombarded suspected Hamas strongholds and prepared for a possible ground invasion.

Okal says he reaches out to the State Department every day looking for news about a plan for when Palestinian Americans like him will be evacuated. Days into his prolonged Gaza stay, he says, he has received no clear guidance from US officials.

Meanwhile, the White House said this week that its considering contingency plans to evacuate Americans from the Middle East. White House national security spokesman John Kirby said the US is thinking through a broad range of contingencies and possibilities, and certainly evacuations are one of those things. Were not at the point of execution right now.

Kirby added that obviously a prime focus for us is the several hundred Americans that we know are there.

Okal spoke by phone with CNN Opinion editor Stephanie Griffith. Their conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

CNN: What actually took you to Gaza at this point in time?

Okal: We left our home in Massachusetts on September 25 for what was supposed to be one month of vacation. We spent the first week of our trip in the West Bank, and then we went to Gaza for what was supposed to be another two weeks of vacation. Then we were supposed to spend another week visiting different cities in Israel and the West Bank because we wanted to explore some of the tourist areas and cities.

My wife and I have a 1-year-old. We hadnt been to Gaza for almost six years. We said, okay, lets go visit some relatives. We said, we should introduce our son to his cousins, uncles and aunts. We were in Gaza for about a week when the [bombing] started, and weve been stranded here ever since.

CNN: So several days into what was supposed to be your family vacation, the Israeli bombing of Gaza started?

Okal: Yes, when the war started on that Saturday, my wife and I immediately jumped on the phone with the State Department trying to figure out what our best options were to leave. We wanted to get out as soon as possible to protect our lives, but also for our sons sake  we didnt want him to live through the trauma. And so, my wife immediately packed our stuff and went to her parents house  the area where they live is a little bit safer than where my parents house is, where we had been staying.

We were at my wifes parents house a couple of days into the war when there was an airstrike about 100 feet from my parents house. It basically knocked all the doors out of their frame and shattered glass everywhere. Thats when my parents joined me and my wife at her parents house. We all huddled together until we had to leave northern Gaza and head south. As a family, weve decided we would live together or die together.

CNN: Tell me about your family in the region. Who are they, and where are they?

Half of us  or half of my siblings  are in the US and the other half are actually in Palestine. We are a family of eight. Four boys, four girls and were also split equally in half of those who are in Gaza versus those that are outside of Gaza. A brother and a sister in the US happen to be in New Jersey. And then my other older sister, shes actually in Ramallah in the West Bank. Thats part of why we were visiting the West Bank at the beginning of our trip. And then I have two brothers and two sisters that live in Gaza.

My parents are also dual citizens just like their kids. My parents actually live in northern Gaza. And my wifes parents are between northern Gaza and Gaza City itself. But to be clear: We all fled northern Gaza not just because of the bombings, but because the IDF announced that all residents of Gaza City must immediately move south of Gaza Valley  otherwise, they might be killed during the bombing campaign.

CNN: Is everybody in your family considering leaving Gaza now and coming to the US?

Okal: Thats the plan. I think anyone who has an opportunity to leave will do so, because of the magnitude of damage and suffering that were seeing, which is just unthinkable. And so far, weve only lived through phase one [of Israeli assaults on Gaza.] Based on what we hear from news reports, the Israeli militarys phase two will be its ground invasion. Presumably, that will only make things worse.

CNN: After the explosion near your parents home in northern Gaza, you succeeded in calling the State Department. And what did they tell you?

Okal: The very first few hours they said its a very dynamic and fluid situation and that they didnt have any idea about whats really happening. But they took our passport numbers, phone numbers, email addresses and made us register through the State Departments STEP program, which kind of tracks you if youre traveling overseas for urgent notification. So, we did all that and then we called again and again. We were told each time that there was no new information.

Ever since, we call every single day, not missing even a single day. On certain days, I have called four or five different times. Sometimes we have switched between calling the US embassy in Jerusalem and the embassy in Cairo. As the days went on, the State Department in Washington, DC, even got involved. Now there are so many numbers for us to track. We call all of them all the time. All they tell us is, The situation is dynamic. Stay as safe as you can. Were working on an evacuation plan.

Early in the war, we were told by the State Department: If you can make it to the crossing, and you think its safe, go there. And you should be able to cross into Egypt. On Saturday, they told us that the Rafah crossing would be open and that we should head there if we deem it to be safe to do so. Nothing happened.

It was the third time that based on what the State Department told us  we spent eight to 10 hours standing outside in the heat  nothing happened. And while we were waiting there, we all would call the State Department, we would call the embassy in Cairo. And all they would say is, We dont have any information.

Listen, we live in northern Gaza. We were not asking for a full-fledged, secure path from Gaza City in the North all the way to the South. We were willing to take that risk. All we want is the guarantee that once we make it to the Egyptian border, we will be able to cross. Yet, nobody in the State Department was able to confirm that for us.

Luckily, where were staying right now is less than 10 minutes from the Egyptian border. We could be there in minutes. But like I said, we were told three times since weve been here in southern Gaza to go to the border by the State Department and every single time, we were not able to cross, despite spending all day there.

CNN: That must be immensely frustrating. Youve said you have the impression that theres a greater level of urgency in getting US citizens or dual nationals out of Israel, compared to what the US government is doing for Palestinian Americans.

Okal: No doubt about it. We see firsthand the amount of logistics that are being put in place to get Americans out of Israel, even though I dont think anyone would disagree that the amount of risk exposure for Americans in Gaza is much greater than for American citizens in Israel.

CNN:. To what do you attribute the different treatment?

Okal: I dont have an explanation for that. I can try to postulate, and it certainly would drive me down a path that I would not like to believe that an American would be treated differently from another American just based on where they are located. So, I still give the benefit of the doubt that there isnt any type of discriminatory treatment for an American in Gaza versus an American in Israel. But the reality is we see that there is a different level of effort invested in extracting an American citizen out of Israel compared to Gaza.

CNN: You said youve been monitoring news sources regarding updates on the border crossing. What news sources are those?

Okal: In the past 10 days, I would say since everybody started heading south, there is a complete lack of news. The networks are down for both power and internet. We havent had internet where were staying for the last several days because the network has been blown out. So we rely on cell phone signals, basically internet via the cell phone provider because we have this US number that we use as roaming.

At the place where we are staying, we have power for just about an hour or two using solar panels. Were fortunate enough to have that where were staying so we can charge our devices. Thats how we get our news  from our phones.

Also, one of my very best friends in the US lives a mile away from us [in Massachusetts]. We used to work together in Cambridge. He follows the news about this region. I told him, Hey, if theres anything about the border crossing or about a ground invasion, then please text me right away. Because it takes time for us to get the news here. Its kind of ironic that Im getting my news about Gaza out of Massachusetts.

CNN: Some of that news, as you say, deals with the potential for a ground invasion by Israel. How concerned are you about that?

Okal: Thats my nightmare. I think its going to be nasty and its going to be very destructive, based on what the Israeli military spokespeople are saying. Were terrified because where my parents were before we fled south was an area thats near the northeastern border of Gaza. So, in a matter of minutes of a ground invasion, the tanks would be rolling next to where my parents homes are. Were terrified because we know that our lives will be at even a greater risk.

Thats part of why were trying to exit Gaza as fast as possible. Were trying to flee as fast as we can while we still can  before the invasion starts. That is when curfews will happen. You literally wouldnt be able to move depending on where you are moving. I probably wouldnt be able to even step outside right now to make this phone call. The invasion will be a huge nightmare if we are still in Gaza when it starts.

CNN: What is the house that youre living in now? How did you find it? I mean, it sounded like mission impossible when Israel ordered more than a million Gazans to leave the North and go south.

Okal: Basically, we were lucky, because this house belongs to a friend of my wifes dad  basically a friend of a friend of a friend. Theyre out of town and they said, yes, youre welcome to stay at it. The keys are with the neighbors.

So, we came and stayed here. Right now, were a total of 40 people. My family makes up 25 people: basically myself, my wife and our son, her parents, my parents, my brother, his wife and his twin daughters, my sister and her three children, my wifes two uncles and their families.

Its kind of like my entire immediate and closest circle of family because everyones fleeing for their lives. And were huddled on the first floor. Then on the second floor, the owners of the house have their relatives that are escaping northern Gaza. So, 40 people in total, in a single-family home.

CNN: What do you think is going to become of Gaza?

Okal: I dont know, but it already is no longer the Gaza that I knew before leaving 17 years ago and moving to the US. Entire neighborhoods in the center of Gaza City have been taken out. There were major landmarks that everybody would know are gone. Youre talking about 1.1 million people who have fled south. My parents have the feeling  and my wifes parents do as well  that they will never see their homes again, even though its about a 10-mile drive north of here. I wont be going back, and I cant imagine that anyone I know will be back. The amount of destruction there is just unthinkable.

CNN: And all 25 of your relatives are going to try to get the State Department to arrange their passage into Egypt?

Okal: We wish. Not all of them are American citizens. Weve been told by the State Department transit will be allowed for Americans and their immediate relatives, meaning spouse and children if theyre not American. Thats the heartbreaking part: that while were trying as hard as we can to leave, we know we will be leaving family and loved ones behind.

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Editors note: Christopher Cosmos is a Black List screenwriter and best-selling author from Grand Rapids, Michigan, whose debut novel Once We Were Here is a multi-generational love story set in Greece during WWII about the Greek resistance and events that Oxi Day commemorates. Follow him on Instagram and Facebook. The opinions expressed in this commentary are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

There is a famous quote often attributed to former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, although some debate whether he said it:

From henceforth, we will not say that Greeks fight like heroes, but that heroes fight like Greeks.

It describes the heroic actions of Greece and the Greek people in resisting the Axis invasion of their country that began in the Fall of 1940 during World War II. To fully understand the quote, though, its necessary to start further back, in the hours before the invasion and fighting began.

Christopher Cosmos - Christopher Cosmos

On October 28, 1940, Greeces Prime Minister, Ioannis Metaxas, was awakened at his residence at 3 a.m. and given an ultimatum by the Italian ambassador to Greece, Emanuele Grazzi: either let the Italians occupy Greece without a fight, or it would be war.

The important words that come next have been debated throughout the years since.

Grazzi himself, in his memoirs wrote that Metaxas said to him, staring straight into his eyes, Alors, cest la guerre!, that translates from French - a common language of diplomacy at the time - as, Then it is war! When Grazzi responded by saying war could be avoided entirely if the Greeks simply surrendered, Metaxas interrupted and allegedly answered with a single Greek word: Oxi. No.

Whether Metaxas actually said oxi (pronounced: Oh-hee) or not is still debated, but regardless of what he actually said, this is the word of refusal that would embed itself in the collective consciousness of the Greek people, and it would need to, because mere hours later, true to his word, then-Italian Prime Minister Benito Mussolinis troops invaded from where they were stationed in Italian-occupied Albania, on Greeces northern border. Greeces military participation in WWII thus began.

Adolf Hitler himself, as Chancellor of Germany and leader of the Axis Powers, had no intention of invading Greece. In fact, hed told Mussolini, who had designs on expansion and conquest throughout the Mediterranean, not to start a war or create another front at all.

The restless and ambitious Mussolini, however, hungry for glory of his own, decided to ignore Hitlers orders. Before delivering his ultimatum, he told Count Galeazzo Ciano, his foreign minister (as well as his son-in-law), Hitler always faces me with a fait accompli. This time I am going to pay him back in his own coin. He will find out in the papers that I have occupied Greece.

This, however, proved to be a miscalculation of the highest magnitude as Greeces response to his ultimatum and the single word that was spoken in defiance by an entire nation during the early hours of October 28, 1940, would become a rallying cry not just for Greece, but also the rest of the Allies and the world, eventually changing the course of the entire war  and history  forever.

The Italian offensive is rebuffed

The Greek resistance to the Italian invasion was immediate, and after Italian troops spilled over the northern Greek border from Italian-controlled Albania that very same morning, at 5:30am, just hours after the rejection of the Italian ultimatum and declaration of war, fighting began between Greece and Italy in the northern mountains of Greece.

The fighting didnt last long on Greek soil, though, and despite Greeces significantly smaller population (just 7.3 million people) against the much larger Italy, which in 1940 had a population of 43.8 million, the better-equipped Italians were pushed back into occupied Albania again and out of Greek territory altogether.

These initial Greek victories over the Italians were actually the very first land victories for the Allies in all of WWII, and the effect of this Greek pride, defiance and success was undeniable and even reached as far as America. On the cover of the December 16, 1940 issue of Life magazine there was a picture of a member of the Greek Evzone army unit standing at attention in front of the Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens with a bugle at his lips. The cover of Time magazine on the exact same day also paid tribute to the Greek victories and featured an image of the Greek armys Commander-in-Chief and architect of their military defense, Alexandros Papagos, pencil-sketched in uniform with the Acropolis proudly behind him.

For the Allies and America, this victory was both a representation of the low morale, convictions and capability of the invading Italian troops, combined with the fierce and inspirational spirit of the under-equipped and out-manned Greeks, who were fighting to defend their homes and everything they had. Historian Mark Mazower would later describe the event as the first Axis setback of the entire war, with the Greeks surprising everyone with the tenacity of their resistance.

This changed things for Germany, as Hitler saw these Greek victories over the Italians as a direct threat to his own southern border and interests, so a fateful decision was made, and in early April 1941, German forces came south.

The German invasion

Even though Greece had defied the odds and beaten the Italians when no one thought they could, they wouldnt be able to defeat the combined Italian and German forces. It was very important that they continue to fight, though, because even though ultimate victory over Germany wasnt achievable either in or by Greece, the ensuing battle would end up being very likely one of the deciding factors in the outcome of the entire war. How long the Greeks fought and resisted is ultimately what prolonged the German invasion of Russia into the harsh winter, when they could be defeated, just the same as Napoleon had been, a little over a hundred years earlier.

There is a famous story about the Spartan Basileus Leonidas, his 300 warriors, and their doomed stand in 480 BCE against the Persians at Thermopylae where they fought as another small but determined group against a much larger invading opponent, facing certain defeat.

In 1940 and 1941, the Greeks would bear a similarly fatal cost as they continued their resistance, against all odds, even after the Germans overran their northern border and reached Athens. The capital fell on April 27, 1941 and the Greek government fled to Crete, where resistance would still continue until Crete finally fell, too, in June of 1941.

All told, beginning on October 28, 1940 and continuing until early June 1941, Greece ultimately resisted the combined Axis forces for 219 days, which was significantly longer and more than triple the time of any other country that would come to be occupied during the war.

During the course of their resistance and the ensuing German and Italian occupation, Greece would lose in both military and civilian casualties, by varying counts, an estimated 10 to 13 percent of its entire population. Even the low end of that estimate is a staggering amount of people, and while its not something found in many history books, the importance of the Greek defeat of the Italians and delay of the Germans to the Allied war effort and eventual victory was essential, and something that would come to be a matter of great national pride.

After the war and during his trial at Nuremberg, Wilhelm Keitel, one of Hitlers field marshals, would succinctly summarize and qualify the importance of what the Greeks did during this time with the following quote:

The unbelievably strong resistance of the Greeks delayed by two or more vital months the German attack against Russia. If we did not have this long delay, the outcome of the war would have been different.

The legacy of Oxi Day

As noted, its been debated throughout the years whether Prime Minister Metaxas ever said oxi to the Italian ambassador in the middle of the night, or if his words were simply, Alors, cest la guerre, and then nothing else.

What hasnt been debated in the years since, though, is that very same morning, on October 28, 1940, after Metaxas addressed the Greek people via radio and told them of the Italian ultimatum and his response to it, the people of Greece spontaneously took to the streets of their cities and villages chanting and shouting together as one, Oxi! For them to put aside politics and differing ideologies in a very politically fractured country was quite significant in and of itself, as Greece was a nation that had just suspended certain parts of its constitution and was under authoritarian rule and would later descend into civil war nearly as soon as WWII and the Axis occupation was over.

But, for a brief moment, Greece stood united as one when it mattered most, and they stood stronger and more resilient than anyone ever thought possible.

In acknowledgement of this Greek spirit and the countrys contribution, President Franklin Roosevelt is believed by some to have said, When the entire world had lost all hope, the Greek people dared question the invincibility of the German monster, raising against it in the proud spirit of freedom.

In 1943, Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union, also acknowledged during the German invasion of his country Greeces contribution and role in the war, and is quoted as saying on a radio broadcast, I am sorry, because I am getting old, and I shall not live long enough to thank the Greek people, whose resistance decided WWII.

When many think of the legacy of Oxi today, what they think of is perhaps the quotes above, or the more famous one from Winston Churchill, about how the Greeks fought when they were called upon to do so. But before the fighting began, there was a choice  to either surrender, or come together, as one, and resist and stand-up to evil  and every year on October 28, with parades and ceremonies in both Greece and around the world, thats whats celebrated most of all.

Oxi Day celebrates the path of bravery, unity, and freedom over the path of fascism, tyranny, and lies.

Its a day that celebrates righteousness and good being stronger than evil, and reminds us that passing despots are mere representations of themselves and their time, and not of their people.

And most of all, Oxi Day is a day that celebrates sacrifice of the highest order by the Greek people during WWII, and all those who fought in Greece alongside them. It serves as an eternal reminder of the enduring obligation to stand up to evil and injustice wherever and whenever its next seen  and how a small but brave country that had been all but forgotten was able to once again change the course of history and help save the world.

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Editors Note: Roy Schwartz is a pop culture historian and critic. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and at royschwartz.com. The views expressed here are his own. View more opinion at CNN.

To condemn the slaughter of more than 1,400 people in Israel, including many children and babies, most through indescribable violence, is not a controversial stance. Or at least, in a sane world it wouldnt be.

But the Writers Guild of America (WGA), which represents more than 16,000 members in various media, has been unable or unwilling to issue such a condemnation. The same organization that asked for solidarity with their four-month strike for fair pay and treatment couldnt extend its sympathy to the innocent civilians murdered and kidnapped in Israel. Their silence was deafening.

Roy Schwartz - courtesy of Roy Schwartz

Finally, after three weeks, they released Tuesday a letter to members, shared in The New York Times, that claimed to explain their silence and make their position clear. Remarkably, it does neither.

On Saturday, October 7, during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, Hamas bombarded Israel with thousands of rockets. Thousands of terrorists, armed to the teeth, launched a coordinated attack across the border, the equivalent of being invaded by a Russian army brigade. They raided mostly small towns and kibbutz communities, as well as a music festival, slaughtering at least 1,400 men, women and children and injuring thousands more. They also abducted more than 200 hostages, including women, elderly people and at least 30 children, ranging from teens to babies.

The evil perpetrated by Hamas, a religious fanatic terrorist organization, marks the largest single-day massacre of Jews since the Holocaust and the single deadliest terror attack on civilians in history after 9/11. (To give you scale, the entire State of Israel is approximately the size of New Jersey. Its roughly tantamount to the murder of 45,000 Americans.) Yet WGA didnt condemn it.

Even in their Tuesday statement, the closest they come to it is to unequivocally state that antisemitism and Islamophobia have no place in this Guild, which is ironic given the equivocation in the statement. Islamophobia is an ugly bigotry, but why does it need to be denounced in a letter addressing the mass murder of Jews and WGAs failure to condemn it? Could they not simply condemn the barbaric massacre without any whataboutism or hedging?

Reasonably, the WGA is a trade union, not a political organization, so it shouldnt be expected to issue statements on world events, let alone controversial ones. Except that it does.

In 2020, both West and East chapters issued statements in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. Apparently, peoples right to not be brutalized because of their race is sacred enough to stand up and speak out, unless its Jews being butchered, including children, some, as Israeli forensic teams told Reuters, by dismemberment.

In 2022, WGA issued a condemnation of the US Supreme Courts overturn of Roe v. Wade, only days after the decision. They spoke out for womens rights over their bodies, but not for the numerous Israeli women who were raped. Or the Israeli nursing mothers murdered on such a scale that its prompted emergency breastmilk drives.

According to The New York Times, the Guilds statement notes that, in the past, they had publicly commented on situations which could be characterized as beyond our scope, but had not made a statement after Russias invasion of Ukraine, for example. But the fact remains that WGA was the only major creative guild or union in Hollywood to not issue a statement on the matter in the days following the Hamas attack.

On October 11, the Directors Guild of America (DGA) released a succinct statement; The DGA unequivocally condemns terrorism and joins the many voices in our community decrying the recent Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel and violence against innocent civilians. We stand against the growing spread of antisemitism here in the US and abroad, and remain committed in our actions, words and deeds to supporting the Jewish people.

On October 12, more than 700 Hollywood celebrities and notables, many of them WGA members, signed an open letter stating the simple truth; This is terrorism. This is evil. There is no justification or rationalization for Hamas actions. These are barbaric acts of terrorism that must be called out by everyone. They are a terrorist organization whose leaders call for the murder of Jews everywhere.

On October 13, the Screen Actors Guild put out a similar statement; SAG-AFTRA deplores and condemns the horrific acts of aggression against the Israeli people on October 7. The attack was a fundamental violation of human rights and dignity. There is no justification for the murder and kidnapping of civilians. We mourn the loss of life and urge the safe return of those who are missing and held hostage.

Several Hollywood studios and stars also issued statements condemning the attack. None of these were political. They didnt take sides. Both the celebrities letter and SAG-AFTRAs statement end with a prayer for peace and coexistence. They just unequivocally condemned an act of pure evil. WGA couldnt even do that.

On October 15, WGA was called out publicly in an open letter published in Medium, penned by 22 Hollywood writers and showrunners and since grown to include 404 signatories, including Jerry Seinfeld, Amy Chozick, David S. Goyer, Jenji Kohan, Sacha Baron Cohen and James Patterson (a welcome and far too rare non-Jewish voice) stating, When it comes to taking a stand, the Writers Guild of America has always led by example  When the BLM movement took flight, the Guild rightfully spoke up. When the #MeToo reckoning came and Hollywood needed to change, again the Guild spoke up. But when terrorists invaded Israel to murder, rape, and kidnap Jews  the Guild stayed silent. The conflict between Israel and the Palestinian people is complex and full of nuance, but the crimes committed on October 7th were simple and cruel. If we cannot stand up to call it what it isa monstrous act of barbaritythen we have lost the plot.

WGAs silence became a central topic at Varietys Hollywood & Antisemitism Summit on October 18, where The Americans showrunner Joel Fields spoke. The Writers Guild has failed us deeply, he told the audience. For an organization that constantly puts out statements to make sure that its on the right side of history, it has sadly issued its statements through its silence.

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), as well as the Simon Wiesenthal Center, in formal statements, expressed similar frustration with the WGA.

According to Deadline, not only did WGA leadership fail to issue a statement, they also refused to engage with members in dialogue. Instead, Deadline reported, they reprimanded those who spoke out.

Allison Josephs, founder and executive director of nonprofit Jew in the City and founder of the recent Jewish Hollywood Bureau advocacy group, didnt mince words. Studios, guilds, agencies and academies need to stand up for the Jewish community  the same way they stand up for every other group, she told me before Tuesdays letter. There is no context or cycle of violence that mitigates such atrocities. I applaud the WGA members standing up and demanding transparency as to who in their leadership condones genocidal violence against Jews.

David Shore, creator of House and The Good Doctor and a member of the WGA Negotiating Committee, also shared his thoughts with me. The vast majority of people, politicians, institutions and media have recognized it for what it is  an act of terrorism  And yet too many people, including the leadership of the Writers Guild, have remained silent. And Im forced to try to understand why. Are they afraid of wading into a controversial area? Maybe  but its not right. And its now our job, as writers, to make it just as controversial for them to remain silent.

I asked him if he thought WGAs silence was rooted in antisemitism. Based on my personal experience, absolutely not. Ive seen no evidence of antisemitism from anyone Ive dealt with at the board, he said. But I know the result of their silence is giving voice to antisemitism.

Hes right. The void left by silence has been filled with the worst kind of moral depravity. Some American student groups have called the terror attack a historic win or issued statements hold[ing] the Israeli regime entirely responsible for all unfolding violence. Some social and political organizations have held pro-Palestinian rallies, including at least one where a swastika could be spotted.

Actor Liev Schreiber, who recently played Anne Franks father Otto in the television series A Small Light, posted on Instagram a photo of a torn and defaced leaflet calling for the release of a four-year-old abducted boy There is a particularly virulent strain of antisemitism in the air these days, he captioned.

And to be clear, Hamas arent freedom fighters. Theyre terrorists. To support them out of sympathy for the Palestinians is like supporting Al-Qaeda out of sympathy for Afghans or ISIS out of sympathy for Iraqis.

Israel cant continue living next to what has become a de-facto existential threat, and Gazans deserve better than living under an oppressive Taliban-like rule. It is not despite sympathy for Palestinian national aspirations, but because of it, that condemning Hamas is so important.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, WGAs board was divided initially on how to respond, fearing, in the reporters words, that some of its activist members will oppose any statement supporting Israel. (The WGA declined to comment for that report.)

Thats specious nonsense. No one asked them to support Israel, either in principle or in policy. Their reasoning for not condemning the mass murder of over 1,400 people in Israel is that it might upset pro-Palestinian members? What kind of moral stance is that? Thats not careful, its craven.

And now that the WGA has finally weighed in, their letter isnt just a case of too little, too late. In true Hollywood Speak, it spends 500 words saying practically nothing.

They claim they did not issue a public statementbecause it felt outside the purview of a US labor union representing writers to comment on it, but this obviously isnt just a foreign affairs issue; antisemitic incidents have spiked across the US since October 7, and many WGA members were clearly directly affected, asking them to speak out, privately and publicly. And it doesnt explain why some of those members were reportedly punished for it.

They do state that All of us in Guild leadership are horrified by the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7th. The murder of so many innocent people in Israel is an abomination. Its at least clear, but its still not a condemnation.

Worse, they conclude by saying that what the Israeli and Palestinian people  need from us is not an expression of our anger and distrust  but a shared commitment to peace, another bit of pious claptrap. How dare the Jewish community feel horrified and enraged when its children are butchered, all over again? How dare we expect our union leaders to show sympathy and support? Instead, the WGA lectures us that its time to play nice.

The whole thing is a mealy-mouthed, doublespeak non-condemnation. Maybe they should have just stayed silent.

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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said he would like a Ukrainian delegation to come to Budapest before the EU decides on the next tranche of the European Peace Facility for military aid to Ukraine.

Source: Orban before the meeting of EU leaders in Brussels, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Orban was asked what to expect next regarding the 500 million aid for Ukraine from the European Peace Facility, allocation of which cannot be approved due to the Hungarian veto.

Quote: "We are waiting for the Ukrainian delegation to arrive in Budapest for negotiations about this. We are open and ready to negotiate," Viktor Orban said.

Background:

Following a meeting of EU foreign ministers on Monday 23 October, Josep Borrell, European Foreign Affairs chief, confirmed a decision on the allocation of a tranche of 500 million to help Ukraine with weapons was not made.

Borrell added that ministers also discussed approving a separate multibillion-euro programme to fund military aid to Ukraine under the European Peace Facility, but they are waiting for political guidance from the European Council meeting this week.

In early October, Ukraine removed Hungary's OTP Bank from the list of "war sponsors", satisfying one of Budapest's key demands.

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Viktor Orban

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said he is proud of his recent meeting with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in China, Reuters reported on Oct. 26.

Read also: In Beijing, Hungarian PM Orban holds first talks with Putin since invasion of Ukraine

We would like to do everything to have peace, said Orban, addressing journalists in Brussels.

He highlighted Hungarys commitment to a strategy for peace, contrasting it with what he described as the rest of Europes strategy for war, as quoted by DW correspondent Finlay Duncan.

Therefore we keep open all the communication lines to the Russians, otherwise there will be no chance for peace; this is a strategy, we are proud of it, the PM said.

We are the only ones to speak on behalf and in favor of peace, which would be in the interest of everybody in Europe.

Orbans remarks came on the sidelines of the EU leaders summit in Brussels, in which Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy participated remotely.

Read also: Hungarian president sidesteps Orban to reset relations with Ukraine  report

An unnamed diplomat told the AP that some leaders will openly discuss the extremely negative consequences of Orbans meeting with Putin.

The Guardian had previously reported on Orbans increasing isolation within the EU, noting that Budapests actions are raising growing concerns within the bloc.

The Hungarian leader held a meeting with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in China on Oct. 17, marking the first such meeting since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. Notably, Orban was the sole EU leader in attendance.

Read also: Putins meeting with Orban meant to undermine European unity  Czech president

The Hungarian PMs actions have drawn sharp criticism from both Ukrainian and Western political figures, culminating in ambassadors from NATO members and Sweden convening for an emergency meeting to discuss the situation.

Orban has consistently promoted Russian propaganda narratives and voiced opposition to providing assistance to Ukraine, stating previously that Hungary would not support Kyiv in any international matters until Ukraine restores the former rights of ethnic Hungarians on its territory.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
The Oregon Board of Public Safety Standards and Training meets regularly to review the licenses of police, fire and correctional officers following reviews of alleged misconduct.

The Oregon Board of Public Safety Standards and Training revoked and denied the public safety licenses of three police officers, three firefighters and one correctional officer Thursday following reviews of allegations of misconduct on and off the job.

The decisions were made by the board after reviewing recommendations of several professional committees that investigated the allegations.

The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training's policy committees  comprised of current and former field professionals  handled investigations and made recommendations.

The policy committee bases their recommendations on numerous factors such as moral fitness violations, which include dishonesty, misuse of authority and misconduct. Decisions also are based on aggravating and mitigating factors.

Troy Page, Linn County Sheriff's Office

Troy Page resigned from Linn County Sheriff's Office on Oct. 20, 2020, after he was found to have violated sheriff's office policy by falsifying information on his background paperwork and lying to the background investigator for employment.

An investigation found Page also was dishonest several times during an internal investigation, which "threatened the efficient operations of the agency and violated Board established employment, training, and certification standards for public safety professionals," according to a memo from the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training.

During interviews, Page failed to disclose to background investigators that he had been in a vehicle stopped by police with a person who was in possession of heroin.

In addition, Page knew some of the people incarcerated at Linn County Jail where he worked but failed to disclose that information to his superiors license Thursday.

The panel recommended DPSST take action against Page's Basic Corrections certification. The board's decision Thursday to revoked his license Thursday.

Dakota Brotherton, Junction City Fire Department

Earlier this year, Dakota Brotherton applied for a public safety license at Junction City Fire Department during the academy process.

A background check into Brotherton's history found he had a prior criminal conviction that would affect his licensure status, according to Sam Tenney, a spokesperson for the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training.

The board voted Thursday to deny Brotherton's request for a license.

Junction City Fire Chief Brandon Nichol said Brotherton resigned before completing the academy to become certified.

Maria Sanchez, Department of Corrections at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility

Maria Sanchez was terminated July 1, 2021, from the Department of Corrections' Coffee Creek Correctional Facility for "numerous agency policy violations."

Investigators determined Sanchez fabricated an explanation as to why she made changes to a schedule and misused her authority by retaliating against subordinates who reported concerns about her conduct.

The Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, a women's prison and prisoner intake center in Wilsonville.

Sanchez, who worked for Corrections for 31 years, grieved her termination and it went to arbitration on July 14, 2022.

An arbitrator determined termination was not an appropriate response but acknowledged that Sanchez' conduct was "immature, demeaning, and unprofessional."

The arbitrator recommended Sanchez be reinstated to her position at Coffee Creek and that the Department of Corrections use "appropriate discipline."

Though the termination for cause was overturned, the DPSST opened a professional standards case to review conduct and determine if there was enough evidence t o support revocation.

The board Thursday revoked Sanchez' license without comment.

Aaron Smith, McMinnville Police Department

Smith resigned from the McMinnville Police Department on Dec. 15, 2020, as part of a settlement agreement after an internal investigation found he was not honest about his reason for requesting sick time on four occasions.

Investigators determined Smith was dishonest to his superiors about being an alcoholic.

Since his resignation, Smith has completed an alcohol treatment program, investigators said. He also admitted his deceit when confronted about it and made the decision not to go to work when intoxicated, preventing harm to others.

The panel recommended DPSST take action against Smith's license certification, which would make him ineligible to hold a public safety certification for three years. The board on Thursday revoked his license.

Other disciplinary decisions the DPSST board made Thursday

Dennis Viereck was terminated from the Scappoose Police Department for engaging in an intimate relationship with an applicant for an open police officer position while being directly involved in their hiring process. The board revoked Viereck's license Thursday and he'll remain ineligible to hold a public safety certification for 10 years.

Peter Robinson with Clackamas County Sheriff's Office received a "no action" recommendation against his public safety license. DPSST received notice from Robinson of a criminal citation he received for "possession of natural resource/ mineral resource" after he was found to have two large pieces of black obsidian from Yellowstone National Park in his possession. The board's decision to take no action means Robinson can remain employed in law enforcement.

Steven Larsen was forwarded for professional standards review after data from the Oregon eCourt system reflected a 2018 conviction for recklessly endangering another person with a firearm. At the time, Larsen was a reserve officer with the Morrow County Sheriff's Office, making his criminal disposition ineligible for review by the Applicant Review Committee. The board took no action on Larsen's case.

Haleigh Kochanski is a breaking news and public safety reporter for The Register-Guard. You may reach her at HKochanski@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Oregon public safety board denies, revokes officials' licenses
This week at the Sick and Shut Down List, weve got it all  roaches, rodents, malodorous air, standing water, sewage coming back to haunt the restaurant.

Before we start this list of restaurants in Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach that werent up to snuff when a state inspector dropped by, we have a few reminders for you.

This is a reactive list. We dont chose who gets inspected. We dont file complaints with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation. You can do that.

We do, however, have a sense of humor as well as a sense of disgust.

In alphabetical order...

Chili Crab, 1198 N. Dixie Hwy., Boca Raton: Routine inspection, nine total violations, two High Priority violations.

An insect control device was installed over a food preparation area at the kitchen beverage counter with clean equipment and food storage.

That device had limited effectiveness if we go by the live roach on a cutting board at the three-compartment sink and four roaches running on top of the dishwashing machine.

Another problem with the dishwashing machine was the chlorine sanitizer didnt exist (zero parts per million). So, all dishes, utensils and equipment had to be washed, rinsed and sanitized in the three-compartment sink.

Oh, you want to wash your hands at the handwash sink outside the walk-in cooler? No soap for you!

The C-Crab didnt have the original container for the raw, in-shell clams nor did the claims have a tag indicating they came from an approved source. Stop Sale on the clams.

At re-inspection, there was a roach on the three-compartment sink again and six roaches scaling the wall over the dishwaser.

Chili Crab passed the second re-inspection.

Chipotle Mexican Grill, 11041 Pines Blvd., Pembroke Pines: Routine inspection, three total violations, one High Priority violation.

All three violations were encapsulated in a High Priority violation thatll get you shut down even if the rest of the restaurant could be an operating room.

Raw sewage on the ground of the establishment...observed sewage overflowing in mens and female restrooms underneath the doors to the dining area. Observed employees cleaning up and walking in sewage. Sewage is near the front counter steam table.

In addition to the restaurant possibly smelling like the aftermath of redigested beans, this means theres no restrooms for customers. And, thats that.

Check with this Chipotle when you need a plumber because it got back open after a same-day re-inspection.

READ MORE: Green mold in beef and unsafe pastelitos in a Broward grocery store

Dannys Pizza Express, 10833 Jog Rd., Unincorporated Palm Beach: Routine inspection, 10 total violations, five High Priority violations.

This dead roach count could be sponsored by Heinz as the inspector counted 57 bug corpses, 10 of which were on the ground under the three-compartment sink in the kitchen; 12 were in the backside of a low-top cookline freezer; 15 in the backside of the cookline flip top cooler; and 17 on the ground behind a salad line flip top cooler.

One of the six live roaches was inside the electrical door of a cookline flip top cooler.

No method for drying hands was found at a handwash sink in the ware washing area. Oh, and the inspector saw an employee cutting lettuce with bare hands. Thats fine for cooking at home, not for food prep at a business.

Bread was in direct contact with a can liner, which is trash grade, not food grade.

The can opener blade was a Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime.

The Express did it until the inspector was satisfied at the next days comeback inspection.

Diana Food Group, 4020 NE 10th Way, Pompano Beach: Complaint inspection, 13 total violations, four High Priority violations.

It really doesnt feel like a Sick and Shut Down List until we see Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.

This seems a bit dangerous...Damaged/spoiled/recalled food not properly segregated.

Standing water covered the floor by the dish machine. By the dry storage shelving. Inside the main walk-in cooler and in front of the door to the walk-in cooler.

Two flies could have zipped in any number of ways, but an exterior door and a loading door had gaps. Thats an invitation to rodents.

And, an invitation accepted by Pixie and Dixie, judging from the four rodent droppings around the blast chiller and two rodent droppings behind an out of work ice machine.

Diana passed re-inspection the next day.

Greenacres Bowl, 6126 Lake Worth Rd., Greenacres: Complaint inspection, three total violations, two High Priority violations.

This had a crime scene feel to it, what with the 10 rodent droppings underneath a tall, reach-in cooler, the four pieces of rodent poo under a prep sink, one in a moving cart at a dishwashing room, five under a reach-in cooler at the kitchen, four pieces of rodent poop under a table by the fryer at the kitchen and bar....and a dead rodent present between the wall and tall, reach-in freezer in the kitchen.

You could almost hear a Lennie Briscoe comment like I thought the only thing killed in a bowling alley was a Friday night with the family. Fade to black. Cue Law & Order.

The bowling alley food area passed re-inspection the next day.

Jacintos Kitchen, 4201 Broadway Ave., West Palm Beach: Routine inspection, 12 total violations, four High Priority violations.

Objectionable odors in bathroom or other areas of the establishment at dining area.

Maybe it was the roach excrement, as the inspector counted 15 roach droppings under a speed rack that holds food between the wall and the pizza oven and over 20 droppings under the kitchen pizza oven.

As for actual roaches, 10 were hanging out under the pizza oven, seven were under that speed rack and one was on the floor by a handwash sink.

With all those roaches running and dropping, youd think theyd make sure the food was  nope, they sure didnt: Stored food not covered....multiple chicken soup, sauce, beef soup at the walk-in cooler.

Jacintos passed inspection the next day.

Panera Bread, 2493 NE Ninth Ct., Homestead: Routine inspection, 20 total violations, three High Priority violations.

We told you earlier this week about the problems that got this place shut down one of the days when the NASCAR circus came to town at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

READ MORE: Rodent droppings and ice machine mold at a Homestead Panera Bread

Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine, 2216 NE 123rd St., North Miami: Routine inspection, 13 total violations, one High Priority violation.

The walk-in cooler floor had enough food debris to be a violation.

The reach-in coolers were soiled.

Four dead roaches lay in the dry storage room. The live ones scurried under a blender on a prep table (two); on a wall by the kitchen three-compartment sink (three); and inside drain board brackets near the three-compartment sink (10).

They got their Taj Mahal in order for the re-inspection...

Valencia Falls Cafe, 13375 Valencia Grand Blvd., Unincorporated Palm Beach: Routine inspection, seven total violations, two High Priority violations.

No soap at the handwash sink, but there were roaches galore.

The dead ones numbered three on top of the bucket, three inside one roach motel, four inside another one and six dead buggies under the three-compartment sink.

They were mourned by 26 live friends, 13 of which were inside roach motels and seven of which were under reach-in coolers in a storage area behind the kitchen cookline.

Valencia Falls came correct for the comeback inspection the next day.
Pakistan's former PM Nawaz Sharif, leaves after appearing at the Islamabad High Court, in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) -A Pakistan High Court on Thursday admitted former three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif 's appeal against his conviction in two corruption cases, his lawyer said.

The decision will allow Sharif to contest his sentences, which have been pending since his ouster as premier in 2017, in the High Court.

The court has admitted the appeals, which is a way forward to fight against the convictions, his lawyer, Amjad Pervaiz, said.

Sharif returned home from self-imposed exile last week after being granted permission to travel to London in 2019 to receive medical treatment while serving a 14-year prison sentence for corruption.

He was granted protective bail earlier this week until Oct. 26, preventing his arrest. The court did not give a fresh ruling on the bail decision.

While he cannot run for, or hold public office, until the conviction is overturned, his party says he aims to become prime minister for a fourth time.

It is a step toward ending the injustice, Sharif's party spokesperson Marriyum Aurangzeb said.

(Reporting by Asif Shahzad; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
By Asif Shahzad

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) -Pakistan on Thursday gave a last warning to all immigrants in the country illegally, including hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals, to leave voluntarily before a Nov. 1 deadline, the country's caretaker interior minister said on Thursday.

Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti told a news conference in Islamabad that Pakistan was determined to go ahead with a plan to remove all undocumented immigrants after Nov. 1.

Pakistan announced the move in October. It says it took the decision after Afghan nationals were found to be involved in crimes, smuggling and attacks against government and the army, including 14 out of 24 suicide bombings this year.

"All the illegal immigrants have been identified. The state has a complete data," said Bugti. "I want to appeal one more time that all the illegal immigrants should leave voluntarily by the deadline."

Bugti warned law enforcement agencies will start an operation to remove people after the expiry of the deadline.

He also said action would be taken against anyone found involved in facilitating or hiding the immigrants.

The immigrants, mostly Afghans, many of whom have lived in Pakistan for years, will be processed at temporary centres being set up by the government.

Those leaving voluntarily will be helped to leave Pakistan, such as preparation of their documents, permission to exchange currency and transportation.

Pakistan has received the largest influx of Afghan refugees since the Soviet invasion of Kabul in 1979.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans moved to Pakistan to escape war and conflicts, and many are registered as refugees with the government and U.N. agencies.

The expulsion plan marks a new low in relations between the South Asian neighbours after border clashes in recent months.

Islamabad alleges that the militants use Afghan soil to train fighters and plan attacks inside Pakistan, a charge Kabul denies, saying Pakistani security is a domestic issue.

(Reporting by Asif Shahzad, writing by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Sonali Paul and Michael Perry)
FILE - In this Sept. 10, 2017 file photo, prominent Palestinian activist Issa Amro speaks after his release from detention, in the West Bank city of Hebron. Israeli troops expelled the prominent Palestinian activist from his home in a West Bank city at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, after he hosted a foreign journalist and a well-known Israeli activist. Critics accused the military of using the cover of the Israel-Hamas war to expel Issa Amro from volatile Hebron, the only city in the West Bank where Jewish settlers live among Palestinians. (AP Photo/Nasser Shiyoukhi, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

JERUSALEM (AP)  Israeli troops expelled a prominent Palestinian activist from his home in a West Bank city at the heart of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, after he hosted a foreign journalist and a well-known Israeli activist.

Critics accused the military of using the cover of the Israel-Hamas war to expel Issa Amro from volatile Hebron, the only city in the West Bank where Jewish settlers live among Palestinians.

The military had no immediate comment.

Amro said the journalist came to his house in Hebron to gather material for an article about the situation in the occupied West Bank since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war nearly three weeks ago, after a brutal rampage by Hamas gunmen from Gaza in Israeli border communities.

In the West Bank, the Israeli military stepped up arrest raids in pursuit of Hamas militants, and dozens of Palestinians, including several minors, were killed, most in clashes with troops, but also during protests and in attacks by Jewish settlers, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

Amro said soldiers forced him and his guests out of his house and told him over the weekend that he was not allowed to return until notified. They then expelled him to an area of Hebron that is administered by the Palestinian Authority, a self-rule government that has civilian control over Palestinian population centers.

They dont want me to talk to the media, Amro said. On Oct. 7, the day of the Hamas attack, he added, he was detained at a military base where he was held for 10 hours and beaten despite being handcuffed, blindfolded and gagged.

Israeli activist Yehuda Shaul was with Amro when he was expelled from his house. He said soldiers and police ordered him, the foreign journalist and Amro to leave without producing any kind of official order.

When something happens in Gaza, right away, its Lets beat up Issa, Shaul said. I think that can serve as a compass for the direction of where things are going and what the dynamics are in Hebron.

Amro has been detained by the Israeli military multiple times. He told The Associated Press on Thursday that he has never been expelled from his home before.

He is one of more than 200,000 Palestinians who live in Hebron. Hundreds of hard-line Jewish settlers live in the heart of the city in heavily fortified enclaves guarded by Israeli troops. There is a long history of tensions between the two communities.

Israel captured the West Bank in the 1967 war, and the Palestinians want it to form the core of a future state. The Palestinians and much of the international community view the presence of half a million Jewish settlers in the West Bank as a violation of international law and an obstacle to peace.

Amros lawyer, Michael Sfard, has demanded that his client be allowed to return to his house, saying the military authority in Hebron just took advantage of the situation to do what they always wanted to do, and that is to expel Issa from the city.

Its not a complicated issue: The pretext was that he hosted guests. In no scenario is hosting guests a justification for expulsion, Sfard said. No one would ever tell Jews in Hebron not to host people.

I am very sad that the Israeli legal system, perhaps like legal systems elsewhere, doesnt protect basic rights in times of war, he added. But ultimately it (the expulsion) will end because it isnt legal.
Paterson is a proudly American, proudly Arab town. Founded around New Jersey's Great Falls by Alexander Hamilton in 1792, it was America's first planned industrial zone. Waves of immigrants built Paterson into a real city, starting with Italian and Arab silk weavers in the 19th century. The classic brick buildings, some of them featured in The Sopranos, host businesses like Fattal's Syrian Bakery and George's Middle-East Grocery.

Today, Paterson is in mourning. The war in Gaza has hit close to home. Mohammad Qatanani, the imam of the local mosque, says he lost 15 family members to an Israeli air raid. Several other New Jersey residents are among the hundreds of Americans who were visiting Gaza when the war trapped them there. Palestinian Americans and their supporters have held several rallies in Paterson and nearby New York City.

The Palestinian group Hamas launched its deadliest-ever attack against Israelis on October 7, massacring around 1,400 people, and the Israeli military has retaliated with an air campaign in Gaza, which has killed over 7,000 people so far. The war has stoked anti-Palestinian feelings in the United States. Republicans have used rumors about "pro-Hamas" ralliesreal or imaginedto call for a ban on Palestinian immigration and the deportation of "pro-Hamas" immigrants.

But the Arab-American community has been here long before the current war. Some, like the Syrian silk weavers of Paterson, came to America before the state of Israel even existed. Others fled the wars of the 1940s or the 1960s, decades before Hamas was founded.

For many Arab Americans, and especially Palestinian Americans, the violence in Gaza is a reminder of why they came to America in the first place. At an October 22 rally, Palestinian American Community Center Education Director Basma Bsharat emphasized that Paterson was filled with "the sons of daughters of refugees" who have faced "decades of displacement." She said that she considers "every other Palestinian our family."

The "Emergency Rally for Gaza" was a cross-section of local life in Paterson. Restaurants and convenience stores put up Palestinian flags to show their support for the cause. Teenage boys and girls showed off, posing for pictures in cars decked out with the symbols of Palestine or other Arab nations. They were joined by several non-Arab city councilmen in matching suits and lapel pins.

(Photo: Matthew Petti)

"Our Palestine community is suffering. They're mourning," Councilman Luis Velez, who was born in Puerto Rico, said on the sidelines of the protest. "We all want peace in the Middle East. We want peace in Israel. We want peace also in Palestine."

The rally was held along Palestine Way, a thoroughfare that was renamed in honor of the Palestinian community in 2022. Local activists gave speeches at a park maintained by the Deir Jarir Association, a volunteer group founded by natives of the Palestinian town of Deir Jarir. One of the police officers doing crowd control wore a keffiyeh, a scarf in the traditional Palestinian checkerboard pattern. An African-American couple set up a stand selling Palestinian scarves and T-shirts.

Speakers at the rally made a few specific demands. They wanted the United States to cut military aid to Israel, pressure the two sides to accept a ceasefire, and ensure that humanitarian aid entering Gaza would be protected. Bsharat mentioned the local and state politicians who have made pro-ceasefire statements.

(Photo: Matthew Petti)

While President Joe Biden has urged Israel to respect the laws of war, his administration has requested $14.3 billion in additional military aid for Israel and sent two aircraft carriers to the region as a threat to Israel's rivals. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has rejected the idea of a ceasefire, arguing that it will only allow Hamas to continue threatening Israel, although he is open to the idea of "humanitarian pauses" in the bombing.

"We are very proud to be American, but we are not proud to swallow the lies of Mr. Biden and Mr. Blinken," said Qatanani, the imam, in his speech. He also denounced "Arabic governments and Muslim countries" for their failure to "stand for justice."

American political figures have used the tensions between Palestinians and other Arab nations to stoke anti-Palestinian sentiment. After Jordan and Egypt declared that they would not support a mass Palestinian exodus, Fox News host Jesse Watters argued that "we all know why they don't want the Palestinians."

"The Palestinians hire Hamas to run their government. You poll them. They all love killing Jews," Watters said. "Every time a Palestinian refugee goes to another country, it doesn't work out so well for the country and for those Palestinians."

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is attempting to ban pro-Palestinian student groups from Florida universities, has also claimed that Palestinians from Gaza are "all antisemitic."

Qatanani offers what he sees as a different message: "I want to say for our Jewish friends, you are welcome" in Paterson's mosque, the imam said, pausing as cheers erupted from the crowd. "You are welcome, and you are with us. We believe that we do not have any problem with Jews."

A fundamentalist Jewish group known as Neturei Karta marched at the front of the protest, wearing Palestinian symbols. Neturei Karta believes that the state of Israel violates Jewish law and that all the land should be put under Palestinian rule. This position is considered fringe in the Jewish community but has allowed Neturei Karta to build close ties to Palestinian activists.

(Photo: Matthew Petti)

The rally was also an opportunity for Paterson residents to share their personal history with the conflict. "The war started not just last week. It started a long time ago," said protester Tareq Yousef, whose family was displaced from Jerusalem during Israel's 1948 independence war and came to America in the wake of the Six-Day War of 1967. "We've been kicked out of our country many times."

Attallah Amash is another one of the Palestinian Americans who lost his home in the 1948 war. He had the misfortune of being born in Ramla, which sat along the road from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem and next to the main British air base in the region. In July 1948, when Attallah was only eight years old, Israeli troops besieged Ramla and its twin city Lydda as part of their independence struggle.

The new state of Israel "obliterated the city of Lydda" in "forty-eight hours of hell," Israeli journalist Ari Shavit later wrote of the battle. Fearing local resistance, Israeli forces had fired into Lydda's streets, houses, and mosques. Israeli and Palestinian historians dispute exactly how many civilians were killed, but when the dust cleared, Israeli leaders ordered the troops to round up and expel around 70,000 citizens from Lydda and Ramla for good. Attallah was one of them.

Now a refugee, Attallah had to make a living selling coffee and tea on the streets. An American pastor named Ralph Wagoner eventually took the Amash family, who were Christian, under his wing. With Wagoner's sponsorship, Attallah was resettled in Michigan in 1956 and married a Syrian-American woman named Mimi. Their son Justin Amash served Michigan as a Republican congressman from 2011 to 2019, as an independent from 2019 to 2020, and as a Libertarian from 2020 to 2021.

Another branch of the Amash family stayed in Gaza, then under Egyptian control. Gaza City was conquered by Israel in 1967 and taken over by Hamas in 2006. During the latest round of fighting, Yara and Viola Amash took shelter in the ancient St. Porphyrius Church. Israeli warplanes bombed the areatargeting a nearby Hamas "command center," according to the Israeli militaryand killed the two Amash girls.

"The Palestinian Christian community has endured so much. Our family is hurting badly," the former congressman wrote in an announcement of his cousins' deaths. "May God watch over all Christians in Gazaand all Israelis and Palestinians who are suffering, whatever their religion or creed."

Palestinian Americans now worry about the violence making its way to American soil. Paterson's Palestinian American Community Center hosted a press conference on October 16 to address the ongoing war. Bsharat, the education director, warned of "harassment and hate crimes on both a local and national level." She said that the community center received threatening phone calls and had to hire extra security.

The killing of Wadea Al Fayoume weighed particularly heavily on the community. The 6-year-old Al Fayoume was stabbed by his landlord, who allegedly shouted about the conflict before attacking the child. At the press conference, Bsharat wondered aloud whether her own son could have been a victim of a similar crime.

Yousef, the man from Jerusalem, emphasized that Americans are mostly "nice people," though many are misinformed about the conflict.

"Americans must know that all the Palestinians just want to go and have peace. They love life," he said. Yousef motioned to the Arabic signs on stores along Palestine Way: "Look around you. We built this stuff."

The post Palestinian Americans Are Americans, Too appeared first on Reason.com.
Protesters demonstrated in front of the International Criminal Court in The Hague last week in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza (Josh Walet)

The Palestinian Authority's foreign minister on Thursday said Israel's offensive in Gaza was a "war of revenge", as he called for a ceasefire in the conflict.

The visit of Riyad al-Maliki to the Hague comes as Israel said a column of tanks and infantry had launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza.

It also comes as European Union officials in Brussels debated the situation and were set to call for "humanitarian pauses" in Israel's war with Hamas.

Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. They are still believed to be holding more than 200 hostages.

Since then, Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel's relentless retaliatory bombardments, mostly civilians and many of them children.

"This time the war that Israel is waging is different. This time... it's a war of revenge," Maliki said in The Hague.

"This war has no real objective than the total destruction of every livable corner in Gaza," Maliki told reporters at the Palestinian Authority's mission to The Hague.

He said the need for a ceasefire was a top priority to get aid into Gaza, where the main UN agency warned Wednesday operations would cease as it was running out of fuel.

"First we need to end this aggression, this one-sided war and then we need to call for a ceasefire," he said, adding that "a ceasefire is essential... for the distribution of humanitarian aid".

- 'Humanitarian pauses' -

But Maliki stressed that so-called "humanitarian pauses" would not alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

European Union leaders were set on Thursday to call for "humanitarian corridors and pauses" in order for aid to reach civilians in Gaza.

Maliki said he was not confident EU officials "would go for a full cease-fire.

"But I am confident that they will have a very serious discussion and they will be able understand the difference between a humanitarian pause and a ceasefire."

"A humanitarian pause is not going to help in bringing in... the necessary distribution of such goods into Gaza."

Maliki also said the only long-term solution in the conflict would be a return to the two-state solution, the framework proposed for separate Israeli and Palestinian states.

"It will be difficult, but not impossible to go to the two-state solution. But what is the alternative?

"We don't have an alternative."

On Wednesday, Maliki met top officials at the International Criminal Court in The Hague, including its chief prosecutor Karim Khan.

"The situation in Gaza is so dangerous now that it needs immediate intervention by the (ICC) prosecutor," Maliki said, accusing Israel of committing war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The Palestinian Authority was "working with the ICC prosecutor", he added.

The Palestinians have made a second submission to the UN's highest International Court of Justice, which is also based in The Hague, he said.

The UN's general Assembly has asked the ICJ's judges for an advisory legal opinion on Israel's occupation in Palestinian territories.

jhe/jj
University of Pennsylvania student Sarah Katz died of cardiac arrest on Sept. 10, 2022, several hours after buying Paneras Charged Lemonade from a location in Philadelphia, according to a legal filing reported on by NBC.

That day, Katz bought Paneras Charged Lemonade several hours before going to a friends birthday party at a restaurant in her apartment building. At the restaurant, Katz collapsed, and emergency personnel rushed her to the hospital, where she had another arrest and was pronounced dead, per a lawsuit field by her parents.

Katz was diagnosed with Long QT syndrome Type 1 at 5 years old when she experienced a seizure during a swimming lesson, per SADS. Long QT sydrome type 1 is the most common heart rhythm disorder, and is manageable and responsive to medication in most cases, the lawsuit says.

Katzs roommate and friend Victoria Rose Conroy told NBC, She was very, very vigilant about what she needed to do to keep herself safe. I guarantee if Sarah had known how much caffeine this was, she never would have touched it with a 10-foot pole.

The Panera Charged Lemonade size Katz ordered has 390 milligrams of caffeine, more than three times the amount in a 12-ounce can of Red Bull, according to the reports.

Her parents, Jill and Michael Katz, filed a lawsuit on Oct. 23 against Panera, claiming the companys Charged Lemonade is a dangerous energy drink.

The lawsuit also claims, Consumers are not provided a factual basis for understanding it (Charged Lemonade) is an energy drink containing exorbitant amounts of caffeine, caffeine sources, stimulants, and sugar.

Elizabeth Crawford, a partner at the Philadelphia-based law firm Kline & Specter, PC, commented on how the companys drink is potentially misleading.

She said, I think everyone thinks lemonade is safe. And really, this isnt lemonade at all. Its an energy drink that has lemon flavor. It should have an adequate warning, per NBC.

The lawsuit continues, These unregulated beverages include no warning of any potentially dangerous effects, even the life-threatening effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and/or brain function.

On Oct. 23, a Panera spokesperson told CNN in a statement, We were very saddened to learn this morning about the tragic passing of Sarah Katz, and our hearts go out to her family.

The statement continued, At Panera, we strongly believe in transparency around our ingredients. We will work quickly to thoroughly investigate this matter.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration told CBS that it was looking into the situation. The FDA said, The agency monitors the marketplace of FDA-regulated products and takes action as appropriate, including collaborating with the Federal Trade Commission regarding marketing claims.
Halloween is always a busy time in Nickie Bolufe's home.

Her 12-year-old son Liam is disabled, and Bolufe creates incredible handmade costumes that adapt to his wheelchair.

"It's a lot of labor and love," Bolufe, who lives in Florida, tells TODAY.com.

Liam has a rare, genetic disorder called MCT8 deficiency (also called Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome), which causes severe developmental delays. Liam is non-verbal and he's fed by tube, so he can't enjoy Halloween candy.

His mom still wants Liam to be able to experience Halloween, so she makes elaborate costumes for him. The get-ups always include cardboard boxes for their durability and size, which she decorates with acrylic paint. "I start the costumes about four days before Halloween and stay up all night working," says Bolufe.

For many children who use wheelchairs, Halloween is the one day of the year when their mobility aids can be part of an epic disguise.

Wheelchair adaptive Halloween costume (Courtesy Christopher Hill)

This year, Liam will be a construction worker sitting in a wheel loader, an homage to his uncle Rob. A few years ago, Liam was a firefighter to honor his uncle Bryan, who works at a New York City fire station.

Liam smiles when he tries on the creations, says Bolufe.

"I want Liam's costumes to make him feel as normal as possible, but with a little pizzazz," she says.

Trick-or-treating can be difficult for children with disabilities, including for those who use wheelchairs. Companies like Disney, Party City and Target sell adaptive Halloween costumes, but they don't work for everyone.

"Making a huge, elaborate costume is an overwhelming task and these accessible costumes make it that much easier for parents to give their kids a special experience," Ryan Miller, whose son Jeremy has spina bifida, tells TODAY.com. "My main concern is if they require children to reach over the costume to push their wheels. Each chair is unique and trying to provide something that will work for everyone is almost an impossible task."

Wheelchair Halloween (Courtesy Ryan Scott Miller Photography)

To ensure that Jeremy's Halloween costumes meet his needs, Miller makes them from scratch, sparing no detail in what's become a fantastical collection over the past 10 years.

Jeremy's costumes have included Mickey Mouse in Disneyland's Main Street Electrical Parade, Captain America riding a motorcycle, a Ghostbuster in the Ecto-1 vehicle, Marty McFly from "Back to the Future" with his Delorean car, and Captain Jack Sparrow from "Pirates of the Caribbean" steering the Black Pearl ship.

Wheelchair Halloween Costumes (Courtesy Ryan Scott Miller Photography)

Miller usually spends anywhere from three weeks to two months working on a costume.

Jeremy loves the attention he receives on Halloween, says Miller, noting that his costumes aim to draw people to Jeremy rather than overshadow him.

Once Jeremy entered high school, Miller stopped building Halloween costumes for his wheelchair, which frees up his family's time but leaves them nostalgic. Jeremy is content with that  this year, he is dressing as Nirvana's Kurt Cobain, a costume that doesn't require a wheelchair addition. Also, says Miller, "He has a group of friends that he wants to hang out with and a big costume would make that difficult."

Miller is advising a fellow dad in Georgia with an Ecto-1 wheelchair costume for his son, who will be a Ghostbuster for Halloween.

Miller, who works in the IT department of an auto company, has become so well-known for his artistry that in 2019, he participated in a wheelchair costume workshop, building approximately nine costumes for disabled children. "It's super rewarding to see the happiness it brings to kids and their families," he says.

Stephanie Stanley of Oklahoma says she loves making Halloween costumes for her "sweet and sassy" son Payton, using materials like cardboard and hot glue.

The 9-year-old has medical issues such as a brain malformation, chronic lung disease and epilepsy.

"Payton is non-verbal, but he is very expressive with his eyes," Stanley tells TODAY.com.

Payton for President  Candidate Payton with his secret service agent, mommy. Happy Halloween  Were using Paytons... Posted by Prayers for Payton on Saturday, October 31, 2020

Although Payton doesn't go trick-or-treating due to a weakened immune system, his mom's costumes, handmade for his wheelchair, are perfect for family photos. One year, Payton was a military member so Stanley crafted a tank to fit over his wheelchair. Another year, she paired Payton's pilot costume with a homemade plane from the movie "Top Gun."

Stanley has also built costumes to accommodate Payton's mobility harness: A U.S. president at the pulpit with mom playing a Secret Service agent and a "parachuting aviator" accompanied by Stanley dressed as the sky.

This Halloween, Payton's costume is a boat operator, which Stanley is in the process of creating.

"We always want Payton to feel included and feel special for every holiday," says Stanley.

Wheelchair Halloween Costumes (Courtesy Amy Castanon)

Amy Castanon's 15-year-old son Isaiah has cerebral palsy, and his mom's handmade costumes are an eye-catching addition to his wheelchair.

"Isaiah loves to dress up, except for face paint," Castanon, a makeup artist in New Mexico, tells TODAY.com. "I would love to create amazing looks on his face but he won't let me!"

Wheelchair Halloween Costumes (Courtesy Amy Castanon)

Castanon enjoys spreading awareness about wheelchair use on Halloween.

"Trick or treating is not easy for us, especially in the dark, so I try to put lights on his wheelchair so people know we're coming," she says. "We go all around our community in costume."

On Halloween, Isaiah has dressed as The Mad Hatter from "Alice in Wonderland," Ernesto de la Cruz from "Coco" and a Lego policeman.

Wheelchair Halloween Costumes (Courtesy Amy Castanon)

Sometimes the mother and son pair up for joint looks: Frankenstein and his bride, Wayne and Garth, Batman and Robin and Beetlejuice and Lydia. Isaiah's wheelchair always represents a related prop.

Wheelchair Halloween costumes (Courtesy Amy Castanon)

This Halloween, Castanon and Isaiah will be aliens with a UFO.

Halloween is about having fun on a day like everybody else, she says.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Further plans to reduce conscription age in Ukraine will depend on the military leadership requests and the way the war goes.

Source: Serhii Rakhmanin, Member of the Committee on National Security, Defence and Intelligence, in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda

Quote: "First of all, we need to wait for adopted changes [reducing the conscription age to 25 years  ed.] to take effect. So far, even that has not been done.

If this happens, the military can estimate the [size of] benefit they will actually get to the mobilisation resource, and whether or not it is worth reducing the conscription age further."

Details: Rakhmanin said the need for such conscripts arises from two reasons: certain types of combat operations require younger soldiers, as does the technological progress in the current war.

Background:

At the end of May, the Verkhovna Rada reduced the maximum age for citizens to be registered as military conscripts from 27 to 25. However, the President has not yet signed this law, so the changes have not yet taken effect.

In early October, Ben Wallace, former UK Secretary of State for Defence, called on the Ukrainian authorities to change their approach to mobilisation, "The average age of the soldiers at the front is over 40. I understand President Zelenskyys desire to preserve the young for the future, but the fact is that Russia is mobilising the whole country by stealth. Putin knows a pause will hand him time to build a new army. So just as Britain did in 1939 and 1941, perhaps it is time to reassess the scale of Ukraines mobilisation".

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Watching Pascos future commercial and industrial sites get proposed for apartments instead under a new law, county commissioners this week discussed what they called the nuclear option: a potential moratorium on new multifamily housing.

Commissioners hope to get the Florida Legislature to alter the law called Live Local that passed in the last session. While the intent of that bill was to increase affordable housing, it could curb efforts by Pasco County to preserve land for future employers to avoid locking in its reputation as simply a bedroom community to Tampa.

For Commissioner Seth Weightman, who has headed up the fight against Live Local, the matter is taking on increasing urgency. He said representatives of two new sites recently have stepped forward to say they hope to take advantage of the law, joining prospective developers of a half-dozen other land parcels.

One of the newly identified sites is at the corner of Old Pasco Road and Overpass Road in an area the county has been eager to see turned into light industry. Recently, the state completed work on a new interchange with Interstate 75 at Overpass, making the property more accessible for potential employers.

The other site is at Curley Road and State Road 54, another high-growth area that was destined for commercial use. Traffic congestion in that location is already a problem and adding hundreds of new cars from an apartment complex would only make that worse, Weightman said.

This bill is killing Pasco County jobs, he said. The Live Local bill is not healthy for our community.

Live Local allows developers to turn land now zoned for commercial, industrial and mixed uses into apartments if 40% are designated for affordable housing. In return, the developer would not have to go through costly and time-consuming land-use change requests or negotiate with the county, which otherwise would be required.

A portion of those projects would then get property tax exemptions for years, which county officials oppose because it costs more for the government to provide services to homes. It also would result in less tax revenue to pay for those services, such as police and fire protection.

I am just vehemently opposed to this, although I know were handcuffed in what we can do, Weightman said. The two new sites, he said, pushed me over the edge.

Pasco has established employment hubs at Interstate 75 and State Road 52 as well the massive new Moffitt Cancer Center project off of the Suncoast Parkway and wants to lure more industry.

While the county has worked with other apartment developers to make projects blend in with communities nearby, the Live Local bill has created what county officials call bad actors who are not cooperating.

While Weightman said it would be unfortunate to hurt those who are working with the county by enacting a moratorium to stop those who are not, were stuck in a corner and there is one option on the table.

Barbara Wilhite, an attorney who represents many of the developments that come before the commission for approval, said the idea of a moratorium keeps me up at night. She said it would stop projects at all levels in the process, including those for developers who are following the rules and those nearing final approval.

Pasco enacted a yearlong moratorium on apartments in the south-central portion of the county in 2021 in order to determine if the area already had too many. The study offered mixed results.

Commissioners and lawyers in the county attorneys office brainstormed several ideas that might deter more Live Local projects without having to do the moratorium. They discussed changing impact fees for such projects, tying prohibitions to certain roadways where the county has some control and possibly establishing intersections that must remain commercial.

County Administrator Mike Carballa agreed to start researching commercial intersections and bring information back to commissioners.

Weightman said that the county needs to make a strong impression on legislators that the law needs to be adjusted in next years session. One way to do that, he suggested, was to get support from neighboring Hillsborough and Pinellas county commissioners when the three elected bodies meet in a joint session next month.
A woman holds a placard during an anti-sanctions rally in Harare, Zimbabwe, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)

HARARE, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabweans took to streets on Wednesday to protest against the sanctions imposed on their country by the United States and other Western nations more than two decades ago.

During a campaign in the country's capital Harare marking Anti-Sanctions Day, which falls on Oct. 25, Zimbabwe's Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said that sanctions have significantly hindered Zimbabwe's economic development.

"The sanctions include financial restrictions and illegal economic measures that alienate Zimbabwe from global supply chains and the global financial system as well as bar capital inflows mainly from the West," he said.

According to Chiwenga, these illegal sanctions have caused the Zimbabwean economy to contract drastically over the two decades since their imposition.

"Since 2001, we estimate that Zimbabwe has lost or missed over 150 billion U.S. dollars through frozen assets, trade embargoes, export and investment restrictions from potential bilateral donor support, development loans, the International Monetary Fund and World Bank balance of payment support, and commercial loans," he said.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe since 2001, as a response to the government's decision to address colonial injustices by redistributing land to indigenous Zimbabweans. These sanctions have severely impacted the country, resulting in prompting widespread calls for their removal, both within Zimbabwe and from international voices.

The Southern African Development Community, a regional bloc comprising 16 countries, designated Oct. 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day in 2019 to show solidarity with Zimbabwe in its opposition to the sanctions.

During the anti-sanctions march, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Frederick Shava told Xinhua that the sanctions have caused significant hardship for businesses. "These sanctions are a real albatross on our neck. They are affecting every aspect of our economy. They are affecting business in the sense that our business here cannot interact internationally because they are being denied transactions in banks when they do business."

"Our industry and commerce would have been flying by now, but it's being drawn back by these sanctions," he added.

Ruvarashe Hapaguti, a young online content creator, pointed out how sanctions affect the daily lives of ordinary citizens. She said that financial restrictions imposed on Zimbabwe limit the participation of young people in the digital world, affecting artists who promote their work on social media platforms.

"As an artist that promotes their stuff on social media platforms, I get less money than I am meant to actually get because of the sanctions that have been imposed on us. Some of the transactions that we partake in daily at the banks and remittances are limited because of these sanctions," Hapaguti said.

Martin Zharare, executive director of the anti-sanctions group Citizens Against Economic Sanctions, said that the embargo has been employed as part of a regime change agenda by the West. He urged that sanctions should not be used as a political tool to bring disaster or anarchy to Zimbabwe.

In her report published in September 2022, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights, Alena Douhan, highlighted the significant impact of sanctions, including secondary sanctions and over-compliance by foreign banks and companies, on both the people and the government of Zimbabwe, saying these sanctions have exacerbated preexisting economic and humanitarian challenges in the country. 
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR)  Paycom Software, Inc., has donated $30,000 to the United Service Organizations (USO) in support of U.S. military service members and their families.

At Paycom, we honor and appreciate the sacrifices service members have made to protect our country, said Tara Steffens, team lead of corporate philanthropy programs at Paycom. We have employees who are veterans, and we know our support for these life-changing organizations means a lot to them and other community members in the forces.

LOCAL NEWS: New behavior health clinic for military, vets and families opens in OKC

Paycom's donation to USO.

According to Paycom, the USO supports U.S. military service members by keeping them in touch with their families, home and country during their service. USO is connecting service members at hundreds of locations across the world to their families through programs concentrated on connection, strengthening, wellness and resilience.

USO is grateful for the partnership we enjoy with Paycom and its employees patriotic generosity, said Jennifer Waters, executive director of USO Oklahoma and Arkansas. Because of partners like Paycom, we can continue to provide morale boosting programs to service members and their dependents.

Care packages for USO. Image courtesy Paycom.

Care packages for USO. Image courtesy Paycom.

Care packages for USO. Image courtesy Paycom.

The donation is possible through Paycoms employee giving campaign, which gives team members the opportunity to donate to sustainable causes and programs around the country. Employees also packed 750 care packages for USO at their annual philanthropy fair.

To learn more about the United Service Organizations, visit USO.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Less than a month after suspending a fraternity due to hazing, Penn State announced Wednesday that it was suspending another frat for at least another four years for the same reason.

The Psi Chapter of Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity (234 E. Beaver Ave.)  commonly known as the Skulls  was found to have widespread and pervasive hazing behavior, after a recent investigation by the universitys Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response. The specific allegations, or how many victims or perpetrators were involved, were not made public.

Pennsylvania law defines hazing, in part, as any action or situation which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a person.

According to the university, Phi Kappa Sigma was found in violation of hazing in 2018  and the recent investigation showed that hazing persisted and attempts to address it were unsuccessful. The fraternity was placed on interim suspension Sept. 27, and it was sanctioned to a minimum four-year suspension Oct. 10.

An appeal was subsequently denied.

Its not yet known if the frat plans to operate independently during its university suspension. An official at the international fraternity headquarters in Indiana told the CDT it does not yet have a comment on the case or whether it will continue to recognize the Penn State chapter. (Both the frat and the university have acknowledged working closely together.)

Regardless, as a result of the university suspension, Phi Kappa Sigma loses all rights and privileges as a recognized student organization. It can no longer participate in or organize any functions or activities, including university-wide events such as Homecoming and Thon.

It follows in the footsteps of Kappa Alpha Psi, whose four-year suspension due to hazing was announced Oct. 3.
Diane Vaglio loves nature but it doesnt always love her.

There was an issue with the flashing over there, so then water came in and then it left [a] large water mark on the ceiling, she said.

She says she filed a claim with her insurance, MetLife.

So they determined that the damage was $1,008. OK. So, they sent us a check for $8 because I had [a] $1,000 deductible, she said.

MORE ACTION 9: HOA fines homeowner $12K because windows didnt match her neighbors

She says four or five months later, The tree was over here  it got hit by the lightning and then cracked in half and made a mess out of the yard.

So, she says she filed another claim and MetLife paid $500.

Then about seven months later, I get the letter that says were dropping you, she told Action 9.

Its like why are you dropping us? They said, Well because you filed two claims last year, she said. I have almost a perfect credit rating, never missed a payment, and over the 10 years weve had MetLife, I gave them over $30,000. And for $508 Im getting dropped?

Vaglio says she offered to give the $500 and/or the $8 back, but the insurer wouldnt take it.

So, then I started calling other insurance companies and they looked me up. Oh, you just got dropped. Youre on the list, she said. I go, The list? I was like, What do you mean?

MetLife wouldnt discuss her case with Action 9. But its not just that company. Chances are, yours does the same thing.

Mark Friedlander is with the Insurance Information Institute, the group that speaks for the insurance industry.

Action 9s Jason Stoogenke asked him if this was fair. You have insurance for a reason, but then you kind of get punished for using it, right?

Friedlander says filing two homeowner claims within a short timeframe usually does raise a red flag and labels you high risk, even if you have never filed a claim before. Its all about risk, he said. To us, its a very fair process. Higher risk leads to higher costs.

Stoogenke noticed a lot of people venting about this on social media recently. One person posted her experience and it led to a flurry of people commenting, including Vaglio.

That said, typically, your insurer cant drop you in the middle of your term, but it can wait until your term is up and not renew you.

They are in business to pay your insured losses, Friedlander said. If it is something that is covered in your policy and you file a claim for it, you should get the claim paid.

But as Stoogenke points out, the flip side is that you may not get renewed at the end.

But theyre not going to tell you, You know what? Pay it out of pocket. Its better for you in the long term. Thats not the obligation of the insurance company, Friedlander said.

MORE ACTION 9: Homeowners say their fences have to go or they could face hefty fines

As Vaglio touched on, insurance companies share that information with other insurers -- even their competitors. They do it in a national database called C.L.U.E., the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, and it keeps your information for seven years. Friedlander says companies may not consider you high risk that whole time, but you wont officially get off the list until its up.

Vaglio says she didnt have many choices after that. She says her best option was to see if MetLife would keep her if she paid a lot more. She says thats what ended up happening.

She says she finally got off the C.L.U.E. database list years later then switched companies, and now she wants to warn others.

Advice from Action 9:

- If you already filed one home insurance claim this year, think carefully about whether to file a second. If you can afford to pay it on your own, you may prefer that.

- Ask your agent if filing that second claim may cost you your renewal later. Even though agents dont have to offer that information, they should be honest if you ask.

If your insurance company does drop you:

- In North Carolina, it has to let you know in writing 30 days before your policy is up. In South Carolina, its 60 days. So, you should have time to shop around.

- If you use different companies for home and auto, definitely see if the one with your auto policy will add your home policy. They like to bundle.

You can request your own C.L.U.E. report through LexisNexis Risk Solutions online here or by calling 1-888-497-0011.

All consumers are entitled to one free disclosure every 12 months. To submit a request, provide your first name, last name, street address, city, zip code, and date of birth. Depending on the type of request, you may also be required to provide either your social security number or your drivers license number and state. The information that you provide will only be used by LexisNexis Risk Solutions to verify your identity and to process your request, the company told Action 9.

This can happen with your auto insurance as well, but its much less likely because insurers use different formulas for assessing the risk on those claims. Insurers report both home and auto claims to C.L.U.E., but the database tracks them separately. In other words, if you have an auto claim and a home claim close together, that doesnt flag you as high risk.

VIDEO: Man stuck with $43K bill after being airlifted, insurance says it wasnt medically necessary
Picture an illustration of the stages of human evolution. It begins with something resembling a chimp dragging its knuckles on the ground, followed by another figure, still much more chimp than man, but a bit less hunched and hairy. And then again, and again, on and on over millennia, until we arrive at homo sapiensfully upright but etiolated, bald, and flabby.

Not that Im describing anyone in particular.

We can think of the leadership of the House Republican conference over the past decade similarly.

Evolution in this case begins with John Boehner , an old-guard establishmentarian elevated awkwardly to speaker by a populist Tea Party revolution with which he was never comfortable. Boehner was a party man in the era before Trump , when the GOP was still the political entity to which right-wing voters pledged their highest loyalty. But things had begun to change by the end of his tenure: There was enough populist muscle in the House to pressure him into quitting in 2015.

Next came Paul Ryan , another party man but more of an ideologue than Boehner. Ryan had earned populist cred as an outspoken critic of Obamacare and the GOPs foremost advocate for entitlement reform. The emerging post-liberal faction on the right loathed him for being soft on immigration, but Ryan proved to be the only member of the House acceptable as speaker to Freedom Caucus purists and traditional Republicans. His ascension represented a step to the right from his predecessor.

Kevin McCarthy s succession to leader when Ryan retired a few years later represented another step. McCarthy is no ideologue; his chief political talents are back-slapping and schmoozing rich donors. Precisely because hes so hollow, he was poorly equipped to resist the pressures of becoming the first head of the House conference elected after Trumps takeover. He became an opportunistic enabler of the rights worst influences, allying himself with cranks like Marjorie Taylor Greene and faithfully serving Trump throughout the coup attempt of late 2020 and early 2021. Populist influence grew further on his watch.

After McCarthy was ousted, we might have looked at the (d)evolutionary progress of House Republicans and made an educated guess as to what the next stage should logically look like. If McCarthy was an establishmentarian willing to rubber-stamp post-liberalism for his own selfish purposes, we might expect the next leader to be a committed, proactive post-liberal capable of looking and sounding reassuringly establishment.

With Mike Johnsons election as speaker, thats just what weve got.

In time, I expect, he and McCarthy will be viewed in tandem as transitional figures from classical-liberal dominance of the House GOP to dominance by feral authoritarians. If you dont think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement and where the power in the Republican Party truly lies, then youre not paying attention, Matt Gaetz assured Steve Bannon on Wednesday morning before Johnsons coronation.

I regret to inform you that Matt Gaetz is right.

October 24, 2023, isnt what youd point to if asked which date during the Trump era best demonstrates the corruption of the GOP.

But its a contender. In the span of 12 hours on Tuesday, House Republicans displayed all of the charming quirks for which the partys elected officials have become known in the past eight years: cowardice, narcissism, and insurrectionism.

The day began with House Majority Whip Tom Emmer winning the conferences nomination as speaker, the third Republican to do so this month. He had the leadership credentials members typically demand in a nominee and a reputation for moderation that might have served his party well had he become the face of congressional Republicans. Unlike most of his colleagues, Emmer voted to certify Bidens victory on January 6. And last year he supported codifying a right to gay marriage, an issue that enjoys 71 percent support among Americans.

Electing Emmer would have been an uncharacteristically rational thing for House Republicans to do, so naturally he ran into trouble. More than two dozen of his colleagues indicated initially that they wouldnt support him on the House floor. The conference adjourned to give Emmer time to negotiate with them in case fatigue from the speaker process had left their arms susceptible to twisting.

Whereupon Donald Trump went full Leeroy Jenkins by doing what he does best: making Republican politics a litmus test of loyalty to Donald Trump.

Just hours later, Emmer threw in the towel and withdrew from the race, not bothering to lobby the holdouts. Trumps intervention gave Emmers opponents political cover to dig in and doubtless would have scared some of his supporters into switching to no if Republicans had insisted on a vote of the full House. Cowardice had won again. It always does.

Narcissism won too. Consider how Trump timed this rhetorical assassination.

It had been clear since Friday that Emmer, the highest-ranking Republican in the race, was likely to win the next conference vote for speaker. So he set about doing what all members of the party must do to advance: sucking up to Donald Trump. Hes my biggest fan because he called me yesterday and told me, Im your biggest fan, Trump crowed to reporters on Monday, reveling in the humiliation of an antagonist. Emmer was willing to sacrifice his dignity to his ambition and the leader of the party was keen for everyone to know it.

If Emmer was unacceptable to him, Trump could have said so at any point between Friday and Tuesday and spared the conference the ordeal of nominating a candidate who was dead on arrival. Instead he waited to issue his veto until after Emmer had been chosen as nominee, sending House Republicans back to the drawing board again and handing the media another day of embarrassing coverage about the GOP in chaos.

Supposedly, the final straw for Trump came on Monday when Emmer refused to say who he supports in the GOP presidential primary. But, Trump being Trump, one cant help but suspect that he held his fire over the weekend simply to prolong Emmers agony and make the eventual coup de grace that much sweeter. Better to let him come within an inch of seizing the brass ring before snatching it away than to warn him off trying in the first place.

The partys best interest yielded to his narcissism. Again, it always does.

But not just his. Before Emmer blew up on the launchpad on Tuesday, news broke that none other than Matt Gaetz was quietly whipping votes for him. Bedfellows dont get stranger than the Globalist RINO who opposed the insurrection and MAGA medias favorite firebreather working hand in glove, but it makes sense if you assume Gaetz is driven less by substantive politics than by vendettas. He bore Kevin McCarthy a grudge so McCarthy had to go; Emmer, a squishier figure by any measure, hadnt antagonized Gaetz personally and was therefore acceptable.

Its what wed expect from a party thats no longer capable of durable consensus on policy, or that cares much about policy to begin with. McCarthy, Steve Scalise, Jim Jordan, and finally Emmer were all victims to greater or lesser degrees of personal grudges, crabs in a proverbial bucket who kept pulling each other down lest any of them ascend to a job universally regarded as the most thankless in Washington and whose foremost requirement in 2023 is being a loyal valet to Donald Trump. Ultimately it was Mike Johnsons sheer anonymityand the conferences obvious fatigue with speaker dramathat made him acceptable to everyone. Hes too low-profile to have made any real enemies.

Oh, and hes an insurrectionist. A sincere one, unlike Kevin McCarthy.

Which helped him, of course.

On Tuesday, Marjorie Taylor Greene was asked if Emmers vote to certify Bidens victory in 2021 had influenced her decision to oppose him. Sure did, she replied.

On Wednesday, shortly before the House voted, Democrat Pete Aguilar condemned Johnson in a floor speech as the most important architect of the 2020 coup attempt. Damn right, a Republican shouted in reply.

In the end, not one member of the conference treated Johnsons role in Trumps plot as disqualifying. Even Ken Buck, who had ruled out Jim Jordan for speaker because of his involvement in January 6, rationalized his way somehow into supporting Johnson on the floor.

Late Tuesday night, after Johnson was nominated for speaker in another vote of the conference, Republicans talked to the press. One reporter pressed him on his involvement in trying to overturn the last presidential election, reasonably enough given that the previous nominee for speaker had crashed and burned over precisely that issue some eight hours earlier. There was even fresh news on the wires at that hour that Trumps former chief of staff had told prosecutors that he knew the rigged election nonsense was baseless at the time and had said as much to Trump.

Watch.

Reporter: You help lead the effort to overturn the 2020 election results, do you



Republicans: *boo* shut up pic.twitter.com/L7R5fwhpIi  Acyn (@Acyn) October 25, 2023

Thats the whole party in one clip. Theres Johnson, smug at having been not merely absolved by his colleagues for abetting a coup attempt but commended for it with their nomination for speaker. Theres Scalise and Elise Stefanik, two members of leadership leering like gargoyles at the idea that they should care about the partys turn toward insurrectionism. And theres Virginia Foxx, one of the elder statesmen in the conference, goading the press to just shut up about it already.

Participants, enablers, apologists: Thats the House GOP. Theyve moved on from their attempt to block the peaceful transfer of power, theyre eager for you to knowunlike a certain someone for whom theyll all be campaigning three or four months from now.

So now lets talk about Mike Johnson.

Johnson declared his candidacy for Congress on February 9, 2016, the very day that Donald Trump won the Republican presidential primary in New Hampshire. That was Trumps first victory of the campaign and the one that established him as a serious threat for the nomination. It wouldnt be an exaggeration to call it the day that Trumpism quasi-officially began. Nine months later, on the same night Trump was elected to the White House, Johnson was elected to his first term in the House.

Kevin McCarthy adjusted to the Trump era but wasnt a creation of it. Mike Johnson is. Hes a Year Zero Republican, the first speaker to have Trumpism in his political DNA. And in 2020, he proved it.

As Johnsons odds of becoming speaker grew more serious on Tuesday, Liz Cheneys political operation began emailing this New York Times report from last year to reporters. The prescient title: They Legitimized the Myth of a Stolen Electionand Reaped the Rewards. Little did we know what sort of reward awaited Mike Johnson.

On the eve of the Jan. 6 votes, [Johnson] presented colleagues with what he called a third option. He faulted the way some states had changed voting procedures during the pandemic, saying it was unconstitutional, without supporting the outlandish claims of Mr. Trumps most vocal supporters. His Republican critics called it a Trojan horse that allowed lawmakers to vote with the president while hiding behind a more defensible case. Even lawmakers who had been among the noisiest stop the steal firebrands took refuge in Mr. Johnsons narrow and lawyerly claims, though his nuanced argument was lost on the mob storming the Capitol, and over time it was the vision of the rioters  that a Democratic conspiracy had defrauded America  that prevailed in many Republican circles.

The most important architect of the Electoral College objections is how the Times described him, honoring Johnsons attempt to provide lawyerly cover to colleagues looking for a reasonable-ish pretext to block Bidens victory. Trumps over-baked theories about mass vote-rigging were hard to defend on the merits; what House Republicans needed was a more sober-sounding procedural objection to justify throwing the country into a constitutional crisis and maybe installing Donald Trump as an autocrat.

Johnson delivered, and not for the first time that winter. A month earlier, he had tried to organize support among his colleagues for the preposterous lawsuit filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton that sought to block Pennsylvanias electoral votes from being certified, again for dubious procedural reasons. Trump was anxiously awaiting the final list of signatories on an amicus brief supporting the suit, Johnson warned his fellow Republicans, unsubtly.

The Republican Accountability Project maintains a report card on every member of the House and Senate GOP based on various key votes and other conduct surrounding the 2020 election. I invite you to guess what grade Johnson got.

Reading all of that and having never heard him speak, you might picture him as a bombastic grandstander in the Matt Gaetz mold. Just the opposite. Johnson is unassuming to the point that even some Senate Republicans were left googling him on Wednesday morning. In interviews, he can sound so sensible and bipartisan as to make John Boehner seem like a Tea Partier by comparison.

Freshman Rep. Mike Johnson first floor speech Feb. 14, 2017:



"Commitment to Civility work towards restoring collegiality and civility in the Congress; encouraging more productive dialogue; and building consensus and strengthening the public's trust in America's institutions." pic.twitter.com/xX2v5zqXkm  Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) October 25, 2023

GOP Speaker candidate Mike Johnson once said Nancy Pelosi and Democrats are not the enemy and supports working with them.



Johnson: Were going to try to work with Democrats. Nancy Pelosi is a very kind and generous person. Shes been great to me. pic.twitter.com/XUkP0vjpD5  PatriotTakes (@patriottakes) October 25, 2023

Hes that guy. But somehow hes also this guy:

Rep. Mike Johnson on Nov. 17, 2020: You know the allegations about these voting machines, some of them being rigged with this software by Dominion, there's a lot of merit to thatThey know that in Georgia it really was rigged. pic.twitter.com/FIeg6BJb3J  Republican Accountability (@AccountableGOP) October 25, 2023

After 2020, Mike Johnson was on local radio.



Host floated "sending a lot of people to jail for many, many years."



"If you dont, theyll do it in the January election in Georgia," host said.



"Thats exactly right," Johnson said, citing "evil."



He also warned of violence. pic.twitter.com/9oO0NWzVwh  Aaron Blake (@AaronBlake) October 25, 2023

He can come off like Kevin McCarthy or Donald Trump as circumstances warrant. (Trump loves him, naturally.) On Tuesday I explained why my hatred for attorneys who aided the attack on democracy is special and eternal: They knew better yet chose to help an authoritarian dullard cloak his power grab in the trappings of law. Mike Johnson, by all accounts a very sharp attorney, is Exhibit A. If not for sinister nebbish Jeffrey Clark, hed have the strongest banality of evil vibes of any participant in the 2020 plot.

I would put it this way: As Mike Lee is to Ted Cruz, Mike Johnson is to Jim Jordan. Cruz and Jordan are blowhards and media whores; theyre willing to overturn an election for the sake of being on Fox News. Lee and Johnson are soft-spoken, camera-shy, unfailingly civil in debate, and content to work quietly behind the scenes in applying their considerable intellects toward Donald Trumps wicked ends. Lee is an admirer of Johnsons, unsurprisingly. Why, if he had been speaker earlier this year, the senator wistfully observed on Tuesday night, we might have had that catastrophic debt-ceiling crisis we unfortunately avoided.

Johnsons ability to sound like a traditional Republican while advancing an illiberal agenda is the source of his appeal to the conference, making him tolerable to establishmentarians and populists alike. Hes been a rolling disaster on Ukraine funding, for instance, opposing money for the effort as far back as the earliest months of the war on America First grounds, yet alleged moderates in the House GOP cant stop burbling about what a swell joe he is. Hes a nice, decent person. Hes a man of convictions but he treats people very respectfully, centrist Don Bacon told the Daily Beast.

A decent coup-plotter. Mike Johnson, the good insurrectionist.

It would have been passing strange had Tom Emmer, a figure more centrist than Kevin McCarthy, emerged as speaker in a party whose deranged leader is approaching a 50-point lead in the presidential primary. Thats not the way the devolution in Republican leadership should logically proceed, from someone who enabled Trumps bid to overturn the election to someone who opposed it.

Logically it should proceed from someone who enabled that bid to someone who actively assisted it. The twice-impeached former president ordered House Republicans to stop Tom Emmer and elevate a top election denier. Is anyone surprised that they complied? Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries wondered. Not me: The gratuitous humiliation of Emmer and subsequent elevation of Johnson is true in all particulars to the spirit of Trump and his constituency. Its the perfect ending to the drama in the House.

Perhaps Johnson will have his moments as speaker. He has a long leash from the right for the moment, partly out of sheer relief that someone was able to unite the conference and partly out of gratitude for his efforts to end American democracy. Maybe hell spend some of his political capital on making a deal to avert a shutdown next month, or on even higher priorities.

But if youre a Republican, you should worry about what Democrats will do with Johnsons record. And if youre anyone else, you should worry about the prospect of Speaker Mike Johnson presiding over the House on January 6, 2025, if and when its asked to certify a narrow Joe Biden victory over Donald Trump. However much contempt you had for the Kevin McCarthy era in this party, start adjusting to the likelihood that its about to get worse. Thats how devolution works, after all.

Read more at The Dispatch

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CONCORD, N.H.  Dean Phillips is running for president. If that was supposed to be a secret, the Minnesota Democratic congressman hasn't done the best job keeping it.

A "Dean Phillips for President" van was prominently parked in Concord on Thursday afternoon outside the building where Phillips will have to file for the New Hampshire presidential primary by a Friday deadline.

The vehicle appeared to be the same vintage 1960s "Government Repair Truck" that Phillips has driven around his congressional district for years.

A calendar in the New Hampshire Secretary of State's office reviewed by the Star Tribune Thursday lists Phillips as set to file for the presidential primary on Friday morning.

Volunteers for Phillips' campaign handed out fliers outside the New Hampshire State House on Thursday, inviting people to a Friday rally.

People involved with Phillips' campaign declined to comment Thursday.

Earlier this week, a red, white, and blue bus emblazoned with a "Dean Phillips for President" logo was spotted driving on the freeway in Ohio, presumably on its way to New Hampshire.

That bus was adorned with Phillips' signature slogan  "Everyone's Invited"  as well as a new one: "Make America Affordable Again." It also advertised a Dean24.com website. The domain is registered but the site isn't operational yet.

Asked by the Star Tribune on Tuesday if the bus was his, Phillips said "Great looking bus!" in a text message and didn't elaborate further.

Minnesota DFL chairman Ken Martin told the Star Tribune in an interview Wednesday that he'd also been informed Phillips is running for president.

"Enough people close to him have confirmed to me that he is in fact doing this," Martin said.

Phillips had been considering launching a primary campaign against Biden for months and publicly encouraged more established Democrats to run against the president, but none jumped in. The Minnesota congressman has said he's worried Democrats are "sleepwalking" into a repeat of the 2016 election when they lost the White House and has urged Biden to "pass the torch."

Most Democrats nationally and in Minnesota have stuck behind Biden through Phillips' criticisms. Some of them worry that a Phillips primary campaign could weaken Biden and help hand the presidency back to Republican Donald Trump.

Asked about Phillips' presidential bid Thursday, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was dismissive and said "he's not going to be the nominee."

"We're going to have our nominee in President Biden, and that will get done and we'll move on," Walz said.

Martin said he's disappointed in Phillips for running a "hopeless" campaign against Biden instead of backing the president against Trump.

"He's not going to end up finding the support that he needs," Martin said. "I think it'll be like a cold glass of water thrown in his face."

Staff writer Briana Bierschbach contributed to this report.
The claim: Photo shows Joe Biden lounging on the beach amid Israel-Hamas war, search for US House speaker

On Oct. 22, rapper 50 Cent posted a photo and a headline to Instagram (direct link, archived link). The screenshot shows President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden reclining on the beach, along with this headline:

Biden hits the beach with Middle East, Congress in chaos.

In the post's caption, 50 Cent told the president to get up, adding, "We in trouble man!

The rapper's post was liked more than 200,000 times. Conservative commentator Benny Johnson reshared 50 Cent's post on Facebook, though it was later corrected to clarify the nature of the photo.

Fact check roundup: Israel-Hamas war sparks many misleading claims online. Here's what's true and false.

Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks

Our rating: False

The picture of the Bidens at the beach predates the Israel-Hamas war and the search to replace the U.S. House Speaker in Congress. It was taken in August.

Photo of Biden was taken in August on a Delaware beach

The tabloid Daily Mail first published the photo of the Bidens on Aug. 2, showing them at Rehoboth Beach in Delaware. The couple was vacationing for a weekend at their beachside home. The Bidens other activities included bike riding and watching the summer blockbuster Oppenheimer.

C-SPAN captured a video of the couple from a different angle, showing the Bidens talking to each other under their beach umbrella. The pair were wearing the same clothing from the photo, proving it came from the same day.

While the photo being shared on social media is outdated, the Bidens did spend some time at Rehoboth Beach from Oct. 21-23. A video of the couple walking along the beach went viral, showing them more bundled up consistent with the autumn weather.

Fact check: Jim Jordan didn't flunk bar exam; Hakeem Jeffries was not Rhodes scholar

The RNC Research Group posted the October video on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing Biden for being on the beach in the midst of crises. At the time, the Israel-Hamas war was stretching into its third week with a death toll in the thousands, and the House of Representatives remained stalled and without a speaker weeks after the historic ouster of Kevin McCarthy.

The White House did not respond to USA TODAY's request for comment, but White House spokesperson Andrew Bates defended Biden's attention to those issues in an interview with Newsweek,

As has been the case for the better part of a century, presidents can execute the full range of their duties from anywhere in the world  whether it's a war zone in Israel or 100 miles from the White House in Delaware," Bates said. "Meanwhile, House Republicans were on recess bickering with each other.

According to the White House, Biden's work that weekend included a public statement on the first delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and calls with Pope Francis and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Biden and Netanyahu also issued an Oct. 22 joint statement on Israel.

USA TODAY reached out to 50 Cent for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here.

Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Facebook.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Photo of Biden lounging on Delaware beach from August | Fact check
The off-duty pilot who allegedly tried to crash an Alaska Airlines plane mid-flight was once the safety officer at his flying club in California.

Joseph Emerson , 44, was the safety officer for the NRI Flying Club in Concord, California, for two years before leaving the post in 2019, the New York Post reported.

He was an authorised instructor in the NRI Flying Club and served for a year or two as the club safety officer where he promoted a culture of safety and continuous training, club president Adam Silverthorne said.

Mr Emerson was charged with 83 counts of attempted murder after he allegedly tried to cut off fuel to the engines during a flight from Seattle to San Francisco on Sunday  before being subdued by the flight crew.

Alaska Airlines said that Mr Emerson was travelling in the flight deck jump seat in the cockpit when he suddenly tried to shut down both of the planes engines by pulling the fire extinguisher handles.

Mr Emerson was then arrested and escorted off the plane. None of the 80 passengers on board the flight were hurt.

Mr Emersons motive for the incident remains unclear, but Alaska Airlines said Mr Emerson did not have a history of medical issues.

Throughout his career, Emerson completed his mandated FAA medical certifications in accordance with regulatory requirements, and at no point were his certifications denied, suspended or revoked, Alaska Airlines said in a statement.

A Federal Aviation Administration pilot database also showed Mr Emerson received a medical clearance last month.

After the plane made an emergency landing in Portland, Mr Emerson admitted to police that he had had a nervous breakdown and had taken psychedelic mushrooms two days earlier.

He told police he had not slept in 40 hours and that he had struggled with depression for the past six months.

I pulled both emergency shut-off handles because I thought I was dreaming and I just wanna wake up, he told police according to court documents.

Alaska Airlines said they are deeply disturbed by the 44-year-olds actions.

Joseph David Emerson, left, 44, was arraigned in Multnomah County Circuit Court on Tues (AP)

Mr Silverthorne said it is impossible to imagine Mr Emerson trying to hurt anyone.

Its impossible for me to imagine him intentionally trying to harm anyone, its just not who he is, he said.

One of the 44-year-olds neighbours also echoed this.

He plays with the kids all the time, Karen Yee told the Daily Mail.

Hes just a great guy. Hes very understanding of other people, she said.

We just couldnt imagine him doing anything to hurt someone. Its very hard for us to believe that he would do anything intentionally like that, she added. I cant fathom him doing anything that would hurt anyone.

Mr Emerson first joined the Alaska Air Group in 2001 as a first officer with Horizon before becoming a pilot with the airline in 2019.
After an off-duty pilot who said he had struggled with depression for months tried to shut off fuel to a plane's engines midair, industry advocates are drawing renewed attention to the difficulties pilots face dealing with mental health issues.

The Federal Aviation Administration's tight regulations and reliance on pilot "self-reporting," advocates say, create a culture in which aviators bottle up their problems instead of reporting them and seeking treatment.

"If you mention that you have a mental health issue or problem, you have basically lost your job," said Ross Aimer, chief executive of Aero Consulting Experts and a former United Airlines pilot. "Although we are supposed to self-disclose any mental issues, any drugs that we take to fix our mental issues, the minute you report that, you are basically off flying status and you may lose your job."

The focus on pilot mental health follows the arrest of off-duty pilot Joseph Emerson, 44, who was charged in federal and state court in Oregon this week after he attempted to pull a Horizon Air plane's red fire handles while sitting in the jump seat in the cockpit.

I am not OK, Emerson said after he had been casually engaging the two pilots in conversation, according to the FBI in a criminal complaint unsealed Tuesday.

Read more: Off-duty pilot took psychedelic mushrooms 48 hours before flight, prosecutor says

Then he grabbed onto the fire handles, which are used to extinguish engine fires and will shut off all fuel to the engines, essentially turning the plane into a glider, the pilots told investigators. The flight's pilots wrestled with Emerson and kicked him out of the cockpit. He was cuffed by flight attendants and arrested when the plane landed.

Emerson, who is due to be arraigned in federal court Thursday, told police he had been suffering from depression for six months and took psychedelic mushrooms 48 hours before the flight. He also told investigators that he was in the midst of a nervous breakdown and that he had not slept in 40 hours, according to the complaint.

Though Alaska Airlines said Emerson had completed all mandated FAA medical evaluations and was never suspended, researchers believe that pilots like Emerson underreport issues such as depression.

"Underreporting of mental health symptoms and diagnoses is probable among airline pilots due to the public stigma of mental illness and fear among pilots of being 'grounded' or not fit for duty," wrote researchers with Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in a 2016 study.

The study followed the 2015 Germanwings crash that killed 150 in France. The pilot in that crash, Andreas Lubitz, also suffered from depression. He intentionally crashed the plane into a mountain after locking his co-pilot out of the cockpit.

Although it occurred in Europe, the Germanwings crash led the FAA to establish a committee to reevaluate the way it assesses pilot mental health, which led to a few changes, but not a substantial overhaul of the way the industry treats mental health issues, according to researchers.

Read more: Unruly airplane passengers disrupting more flights, despite FAA's zero-tolerance policy

"We thought more would be done at that time. We thought more resources would become available to pilots," said Deborah Donnelly-McLay, a pilot and researcher with Harvard University who contributed to the 2016 Pilot Health Study.

"Nothing was being done that really changed the landscape of mental health treatment," Donnelly-McLay said.

The study Donnelly-McLay co-authored focused on data compiled from 2,000 anonymous pilots' responses to a survey. It found that 12.4% of pilots may be clinically depressed. Even more alarmingly, the survey found that about 4% of pilots had suicidal ideations at times. In Europe, about 17% of pilots suffer from depression, according to a Trinity College survey spearheaded by pilot Paul Cullen.

Still, many pilots do not report their depression.

"The real issue is the job security and the fear of loss of earnings," Cullen said his report found.

But the FAA says that fear over reporting mental health issues is a "perceived risk."

"Were doing our best at the FAA to make that clear," former FAA administrator Steve Dickson said at the University of North Dakota Mental Health Summit in 2021.

"It is a misconception that if you report a mental health issue, you will never fly again. ... Its just not true," he said.

Dickson emphasized a renewed focus on "aircrew peer support networks, where pilots with concerns could talk to other pilots who were specifically trained to help."

Read more: A nationwide pilot shortage is straining air travel

Despite the FAA's insistence that mental health issues can be reported, barriers still exist for struggling pilots.

The FAA still does not allow pilots to take many antidepressants. And even those drugs that pilots are allowed to take for depression "are acceptable on a case by case basis," according to the FAA.

"Approval for any psychiatric drug is very strict and does not permit applicants to be approved by an [Aviation Medical Examiner] or even the FAA office in Oklahoma City. These cases are decided by the FAA office in Washington, D.C. and many cases are not approved for a variety of reasons," the FAA says in its list of accepted medications.

Donnelly-McLay believes the FAA has to treat mental health issues the way the airline industry handled alcohol and substance abuse.

In 1974, the Air Line Pilots Assn. created the Human Intervention Motivational Study, or HIMS, using a grant to treat pilots with alcohol and substance use disorders.

Now, the majority of American airlines refer pilots to HIMS programs that work with the FAA to get pilots treatment. More than 5,400 pilots with alcohol or substance use disorders have been treated through HIMS and returned to the air after successful completion of the program.

Before HIMS, many of the same issues existed related to pilot underreporting of substance use disorders.

"Prior to 1974, the FAA had no practical rehabilitative protocol to accommodate a recovering pilot and return him/her to work with safety. To identify an alcoholic pilot meant suspension or revocation of the medical certification and immediate loss of income," according to the HIMS website.

In its 48-page report on pilot mental health after the Germanwings crash, the FAA report "investigated the concept of developing a pilot mental fitness-focused ASAP-like program" like HIMS.

"Consensus among the group as to the ability to implement such a program was not found," the authors of the report wrote.

Certain airlines have their own programs. Alaska Airlines said it had internal programs to handle pilots with mental health issues, but the company did not immediately elaborate.

Aimer said it takes incidents like the Alaska Airlines flight to bring the FAA's attention back to the critical issue.

"We are all human and we have our portion of alcoholics, mental issues," Aimer said. "The FAA needs to do some serious soul searching and find a solution for this."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW)  Authorities in Minnesota have arrested and charged a Wichita womans husband in her murder.

On August 16, Betty Bowman, 32, a Mayo Clinic pharmacist, was admitted to a hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, with severe gastrointestinal distress and dehydration  similar to food poisoning. She died on August 20.

Connor Bowman (Courtesy: Olmsted County Sheriffs Office)

Bettys husband, Dr. Connor F. Bowman, a former Mayo Clinic resident, was arrested on Friday, Oct. 20, and he has been charged with second-degree murder  with intent-not premeditated, in her death. His bond has been set at $5 million with no conditions.

According to a criminal complaint and statement of probable cause filed on Monday, Oct. 23, in Olmsted County, Minnesota, the medical examiner alerted the Rochester Police Department to Bettys suspicious death on August 21, and her cremation was halted.

Thats when authorities began investigating Bettys husband.

The complaint says Connor Bowman was a poison specialist at the University of Kansas Health System and answered calls regarding poisons. The health system confirmed his employment in a statement to Nexstars KSN, adding that he had worked at the Poison Control Center for six years. For the last four years, he had been working as needed, answering calls to the center.

Las Vegas teens accused in deadly crime spree appear to laugh in courtroom, smile at victims family

Detectives got a search warrant for his computer and when the health system became aware that their device was seized, they provided authorities with an internet search history of Connors computer from days prior. According to the court documents, he allegedly researched colchicine, a drug used to treat gout.

On August 11, Bowman allegedly searched websites for liquid colchicine, including sites to purchase the drug. He also conducted lethality searches, tracking packages, internet history, and whether it could be used in court, according to court documents.

On August 16, samples of Bettys blood from her admission were also tested. Colchicine was detected, but she had not been prescribed the drug, according to health records. The medical examiner determined the cause of her death to be the toxic effects of colchicine and the manner of death to be a homicide.

While Betty was in the hospital, Connor told multiple people that she was suffering from hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), a rare disease in which the white blood cells attack other blood cells, according to the criminal complaint.

The night before Betty Bowman went to the hospital, she told a man  identified as SS in the complaint  that she was drinking at home with Connor Bowman. The next morning, she told SS she was sick, possibly from a drink that was mixed into a large smoothie.

In her obituary, it states Betty died from a sudden onset autoimmune and infectious illness. Tests were done for HLH, but they were inconclusive. The medical examiner said Connor wanted Betty cremated immediately, saying that her death was natural. He attempted to cancel the autopsy, stating that his wife didnt want to be a cadaver.

Betty Bowman (Courtesy: Mary Bartlett)

Betty Bowman (Courtesy: Mary Bartlett)

v

Betty Bowman (Courtesy: Mary Bartlett)

Betty Bowman (Courtesy: Mary Bartlett)

Betty Bowman (Courtesy: Mary Bartlett)

Detectives said they learned from interviews that Betty was healthy and that Connor said he would get $500,000 in life insurance due to her death.

According to the complaint, Betty and Connor were having marital issues and were talking about a divorce following infidelity and a deteriorating relationship.

Basketball Wives star sentenced to prison

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe has been set up for Bettys mom to assist with memorial costs and legal costs.

The family sent a statement to KSN:

Betty, a beloved friend, sibling, mom to Corgi, pharmacist and cherished member of our lives. Its evident that her impact was profound and everlasting.

Betty had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel special. Her kindness, warmth, and genuine compassion touched the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Whether through a warm smile, comforting words, or a simple act of kindness. Bettys love was boundless, and it extended far beyond the confines of family and friends. Her warm smile, kind words, and caring actions left an indelible mark on our hearts. Betty had a passion for life that was infectious. She lived life to the fullest, embracing each day with enthusiasm and joy.

One of Bettys greatest strengths was her unwavering love, forgiveness and support for those she cared about. Her love for food and travel brought her all over the nation and world with travels to Hawaii and Iceland being in her top favorite trips.

She elected to pursue a career as a Pharmacist after working as a pharmacy tech at a young age, and graduated pharmacy school from Kansas State University in the spring of 2017 and completed her residency in Topeka, Kansas, in 2018.

Once moving to Minnesota, she worked in the Operating room pharmacy at Mayo and enjoyed this job very much and took pride in her work. Co-workers continue to speak positively about her which speaks loudly to show how she carried her positive energy both in her personal and professional life.

She was always there, a reliable pillar of strength and a listening ear during times of joy and sorrow. She showed us the true meaning of loveselfless, unconditional, and boundless.

Bowman is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 1.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Shocked and fearful Maine residents kept to their homes for a second night Thursday as hundreds of heavily armed police and FBI agents searched intensely for Robert Card, an Army reservist authorities say fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and a bar in the worst mass killing in state history.

Much of Thursdays search focused on a property belonging to one of Cards relatives in rural Bowdoin, where trucks and vans full of armed agents from the FBI and other agencies eventually surrounded a home. Card and anyone else inside were repeatedly ordered to surrender.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, police said through a loudspeaker. In most instances when police execute warrants  even for suspects wanted for violent crimes  they move quickly to enter the home.

But hours later, after repeated announcements and a search, authorities moved off  and it was still unclear whether Card had ever been at the location, state police said.

Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the search took place, knows the Card family. Robert Card, who is four years younger, knows the terrain well, Goddard said.

This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here," he said. He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket.

Several homes were being searched and every lead pursued in the hunt for Card, a 40-year-old with firearms instructor training. Authorities said he should be considered armed and dangerous and not approached.

Card is suspected of opening fire with at least one rifle at a bar and a bowling alley Wednesday in Lewiston, which is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) from Bowdoin and is Maines second-largest city. The evening shootings killed 18 people and wounded 13 others, with three people still hospitalized in critical condition, authorities said.

Authorities havent said how many guns were used or how they were obtained.

Schools, doctors offices and grocery stores closed and people stayed behind locked doors in cities as far as 50 miles (80 kilometers) from the scenes of the shootings. Maines largest city, Portland, closed its public buildings, while Canada Border Services Agency issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the U.S. border.

April Stevens lives in the same neighborhood where one of the shootings took place. She turned on all her lights overnight and locked her doors. She knew someone killed at the bar and another person injured who needed surgery.

Were praying for everyone, Stevens said through tears.

The attacks stunned a state of only 1.3 million people that has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates: 29 killings in all of 2022.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills promised to do whatever was needed to find Card and to hold whoever is responsible for this atrocity accountable ... and to seek full justice for the victims and their families.

As authorities searched for Card, details about his recent behavior emerged. Card underwent a mental health evaluation in mid-July after he began acting erratically while with his reserve regiment, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

A bulletin sent to police across the country after the attack said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this past summer after hearing voices and threats to shoot up a military base.

Maine doesnt require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting. Keeping in mind the strong support for gun rights, lawmakers passed a yellow flag law in 2019 that would require police to seek a medical evaluation of anyone believed to be dangerous before then trying to take their guns away. However, critics charged that it was a weaker version of the tougher red flag laws that many other states have adopted.

A neighbor, Dave Letarte, said Cards family let them deer hunt on their property and were kind, although Letarte said he noticed Card appeared to have mental problems for a while.

People have problems, but you dont expect them to go on the deep end like that, Letarte said. When we saw it on the news last night, I was shocked.

A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service. A woman who answered a phone number for one of Cards relatives said Thursday afternoon the family was helping the FBI. She didnt give her name or additional details.

Eight murder warrants were issued for Card after authorities identified eight of the victims, police said. Ten more will likely be issued once the names of the rest of the dead are confirmed, said Maine State Police Col. William Ross.

Three of the 13 people wounded in the shootings were in critical condition and five were hospitalized but stable, Central Maine Medical Center officials said.

The attack started at Just-In-Time Recreation, where a childrens bowling league was taking place, just before 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Patrick Poulin was supposed to be at the bowling center with his 15-year-old son, who is in a league that was practicing Wednesday. They stayed home, but he estimates there were probably several dozen young bowlers, ages 4 to 18, along with their parents, in the facility. Poulins brother was there, he said, and shepherded some of the children outside when the shooting began.

Hes pretty shook up, Poulin said Thursday. And its just sinking in today, like, wow, I was very close to being there. And a lot of the people that got hurt, I know.

Less than 15 minutes later, numerous 911 calls started coming in from Schemengees Bar and Grille a few miles away.

The search for Card covered both land and water. The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River, but after hours of searching, they found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station.

A car believed to belong to Card had been discovered by a boat launch in the town of Lisbon near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and Cards 15-foot (4.5-meter) boat remains unaccounted for, Smith said.

In many past U.S. mass shootings, the suspect was found  whether dead or alive  within minutes. But Card was still on the loose a full day after the shootings.

Lewiston was mostly empty on an unusually warm fall day Thursday. Changeable message signs reminded people to stay behind locked doors.

In Bates College in Lewiston, students stayed in dorms with the blinds closed, said Diana Florence, whose son is a sophomore. She has a daughter who is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month for a shooting and a man with a gun.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

The shootings mark the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

At a news conference, the Lewiston shootings prompted Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Golden in Maine to apologize for opposing a ban on assault weapons in the past. He urged Congress to pass such a law.

I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime, he said. The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure.



This story has been corrected to show the name of the bowling alley is Just-In-Time Recreation, not Sparetime Recreation as authorities had called it.

___

Associated Press journalists Patrick Whittle in Portland, Maine; Robert Bukaty in Lewiston, Maine; Darlene Superville and Lolita Baldor in Washington, D.C.; Michael Casey in Boston; Kathy McCormack in Concord, New Hampshire; Associated Press researcher Rhonda Shafner in New York; and Jeffrey Collins in Columbia, South Carolina, contributed to this report.
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's producer price index increased marginally in September after seven consecutive months of decline since February due to the base effect and higher prices of primary commodities, official data showed Thursday.

The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) said in a statement that the country's producer price index rose 0.2 percent in September as compared to a contraction of 2.2 percent in August.

The marginal increase was contributed by all sectors except the manufacturing sector (-0.8 percent).

The agriculture, forestry and fishing sector increased by 3.2 percent, while the mining sector increased by 6.9 percent.

On a monthly basis, the producer price index for local production went up by 0.9 percent in September after no changes were recorded in August.

As for the third quarter, the producer price index continued to decline with a contraction of 1.4 percent, dragged by the mining (-2.8 percent) and manufacturing (-1.7 percent) sectors. 
Police in upstate New York are asking for the publics help to locate missing university professor Heikki Rantakari, who they believe is in danger after he failed to teach a scheduled class Saturday at the University of Rochester. Photo courtesy of Rochester Police Department

Oct. 25 (UPI) -- Police in upstate New York are asking for the public's help to locate a missing university professor who they believe is in danger.

Heikki Rantakari, 44, a professor at the University of Rochester, was reported missing after he failed to show up to teach a scheduled class Saturday morning, according to Rochester Police.

"We believe that he may be in danger and anyone with information is encouraged to call 911," Rochester Police wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that included a photo of Rantakari. The professor stands roughly 5-foot-11-inches and speaks with a Finnish accent.

We are seeking the public's help in locating 44-year old Heikki Rantakari. He was last seen on Friday in the 1000 block of Exchange St. We believe that he may be in danger and anyone with information is encouraged to call 911. pic.twitter.com/ecEngd56gv Rochester NY Police (@RochesterNYPD) October 24, 2023

According to Rantakari's family, he was last seen Friday between 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. after arriving from Boston and checking into his Airbnb in Rochester.

"We did find evidence that he was there, so we do know he did check into his Airbnb on Friday," Captain Greg Bello, with the Rochester Police Department, told reporters. "Now, it's a matter of what happened from there, and that's what we're trying to track down."

"Obviously, it's concerning that he flew here for a specific meeting, to teach a specific class or multiple classes, and has not shown up for them -- which, from what we're told, is far outside his norm," Bello added.

According to the University of Rochester, Rantakari, who was on partial leave this semester, is an associate professor of economics and management at the Simon Business School. He is also a visiting professor of applied economics at MIT's Sloan School of Management in Boston.

The University of Rochester released a statement, saying the community is "hopeful that he is found safe very soon."

Police said Rantakari did not have a car in Rochester and that the Airbnb was within walking distance of the university. Investigators have not released information on what they found in their search that has led them to believe the professor is in danger.

"He's got a family back in Boston, and obviously they're concerned about him as well, and that's what we're trying to resolve here and figure out what happened," Bello said. "We need that public assistance. We need that help getting the message out so we can confirm he's OK."
Criminal charges are not expected to be filed after a car crash that killed a longtime Lexington broadcaster, the Lexington Police Department confirmed.

The crash happened at the intersection of Alumni Drive and Chinoe Road during rush hour traffic Tuesday. Five vehicles were involved in the collision and three people were taken to a local hospital, including 90-year-old Sue Wylie. She later died at the hospital.

LPD said the crash was still under investigation Wednesday afternoon.

The collision is currently under investigation by the Collision Reconstruction Unit, LPD spokesperson Hannah Sloan said. At this time, no criminal charges are expected.

A fatal collision hasnt been reported at the intersection of Alumni Drive and Chinoe Road since at least 2018, which is the oldest data available from Lexington police. There have been seven collision in or near that intersection this year, according to Kentucky State Police data. Three of those, including the crash that killed Wylie, involved injuries.

Wylie was the first female anchor at WLEX, Channel 18, where she worked from 1968 to 1998. She worked at several other local TV news stations prior to that across different markets. She interviewed presidents Ronald Reagan and Jimmy Carter, along with several other prominent political figures.

She was inducted into the Kentucky Journalism Hall of Fame in 1999. Wylie has been remembered this week as an icon and a force in the industry by others in print and broadcast journalism.
UPDATE: 8:30 p.m. Oct. 26, Womeldurf has been located in Arlington, Texas. According to police, Womeldurf was found safe, and Johnson has been placed in custody.

Original: Shreveport Police Department is asking for your help in finding a missing autistic child.

On Oct. 25, Jackson Womeldurf was taken from his home in the 3800 block of Addison Avenue by a known man.

Jackson Womeldurf is missing after being taken by Buck Johnson, Oct. 26, 2023.

According to police, Buck Johnson allegedly took Womeldurf without the consent of his parents. Womeldurf is four feet tall and weighs 60 pounds. He has brown eyes and sandy brown hair.

Police believe Johnson is headed to Dallas, Texas to a theme park. Johnson is driving a 2015 white Chevy pickup truck with Louisiana tag C330278.

Buck Johnson 2015 Chevy pickup truck with Louisiana tag C330278, Oct. 26, 2023.

Police would like to remind the public that that persons with autism may act in an unusual way if good will attempts are made to help them.

They continued by saying, "we are asking the public to please report any sightings and keep the vehicle in sight if they can do it safely."

More: Shreveport Police arrest Southwood High School student after gun found in backpack

Makenzie Boucher is a reporter with the Shreveport Times. Contact her at mboucher@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: UPDATE: Police have located Shreveport autistic child
By Richard Valdmanis and Gabriella Borter

LEWISTON, Maine (Reuters) -Police on Thursday searched the woods, waterways and towns of Maine for a U.S. Army reservist wanted in connection with the mass shootings that killed 18 people and wounded 13 more the previous night at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston.

The town of Lewiston, a former textile hub of 38,000 people, and neighboring communities largely shut down to enable hundreds of officers to expand their manhunt with an arrest warrant for Robert R. Card. Card, 40, is a sergeant at a nearby U.S. Army Reserve base who law enforcement officials said had been temporarily committed to a mental health facility over the summer.

Police circulated photographs of a bearded man in a brown hooded sweatshirt and jeans at one of the crime scenes armed with what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle. Hundreds of officers from an array of agencies including the U.S. Coast Guard joined the search, and neighboring Canada said its border officers were on alert.

There was an eerie quiet in the normally bustling city on the banks of the Androscoggin River, with almost no cars on the roads, just a few people outside, and many downtown businesses closed. Rifle-toting security agents in bulletproof vests guarded the hospital where many of the shooting victims were taken.

Card's trail led to Lisbon, about 7 miles (11 km) to the southeast, where Maine State Police found a white SUV they believe Card used to get away and parked at a boat launch on the river. Public records showed he has three watercraft registrations: two Sea-Doos and a Bayliner.

Card is a petroleum supply specialist at the Army Reserve base in Saco, Maine, who had never been deployed in combat since enlisting in 2002, the U.S. Army said.

A Maine law enforcement bulletin described Card as a trained firearms instructor who recently said he had been hearing voices and had other mental health issues.

He threatened to shoot up the National Guard base in Saco and was "reported to have been committed to mental health facility for two weeks during summer 2023 and subsequently released," according to the bulletin from the Maine Information & Analysis Center, a unit of the state police. Reuters could not confirm the details reported in the bulletin.

A PRESIDENT MOURNS

President Joe Biden, echoing other officials, said in a statement that he mourned "yet another senseless and tragic mass shooting" in a nation where deadly gun violence is commonplace. He again urged Congress to pass a ban on high-capacity magazines and other gun regulations.

Guns are lightly regulated in Maine, where about half of all adults live in a household with a gun, according to a 2020 study by RAND Corporation. Maine does not require a permit to buy or carry a gun, and it does not have so-called "red flag" laws seen in some other states that allow law enforcement to temporarily disarm people deemed to be dangerous.

U.S. Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Lewiston, told reporters he has reversed his opposition to an assault weapons ban as a result of the tragedy.

"I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles, like the one used by the perpetrator of this mass killing my hometown," Golden told a news conference.

But Congress has been mostly unable to pass gun control, even after previous tragedies such as the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, where 20 first-graders and six adults were gunned down.

Rick Goddard, 44, who lives across the street from Card's father's farm in Bowdoin, said Card was a gun enthusiast who otherwise kept a low profile. The last time he saw Card he was helping his father cut hay on their farm.

"I know that last year, when he shot a deer down here, he had a $2,000 thermal scope on his rifle. I mean, that's avid as far as I'm concerned," Goddard said.

No one answered the door at the farmhouse.

The attacks began shortly before 7 p.m. at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley, where one female patron and six males were shot dead, police said, without giving the victims' ages. Within about 10 minutes, they received reports of a shooting at Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, about three miles (5 km) away, where eight males were shot dead.

Three victims who were taken to hospital later died of their injuries.

All but one of the patients were taken to Central Maine Medical Center, where the emergency room was overflowing with wounded and bleeding patients. Eight patients remained there as of Thursday evening, three of them in critical condition, hospital President Steven Littleson told reporters.

The 18 fatalities are close to the annual number of homicides that normally occur in Maine, which has fluctuated between 16 and 29 since 2012, according to Maine State Police.

The number of U.S. shootings in which four or more people are shot is projected to reach 679 in 2023, up from 647 in 2022, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive.

(Reporting by Rich Valdmanis and Gabriella Borter in Lewiston, Maine; Additional reporting by Nick Pfosi in Lewiston and Lisbon, Maine, and Ismail Shakil, Steve Gorman, Trevor Hunnicutt, Phil Stewart, Rich McKay, Susan Heavey, Daniel Trotta, Julia Harte and Andy Sullivan; Writing by Daniel Trotta and Jonathan Allen; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan, Mark Porter, Giles Elgood, Jonathan Oatis and David Gregorio)
PAWTUCKET  The Pawtucket police are looking for the public's help in finding a Canadian man accused of conning an 85-year-old Pawtucket resident out of $18,000.

The police say the Pawtucket resident gave the money to Harley Lyons, 27, of Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, in July, because the victim was tricked into believing the payment was needed to bond a relative out of jail, the Pawtucket police said.

The victim had received a call from somebody identifying himself as an attorney representing a jailed relative, the police said. When the victim couldn't contact the relative, the victim believed the relative was in jail and followed the caller's instructions to give the money to a courier, the police said.

The police say this picture shows Harley Lyons, who is suspected of scamming an 85-year-old Pawtucket resident out of $18,000.

RI scam alert: Callers are impersonating court officials, demanding money

Pawtucket Detective Austin Webb was able to identify the suspect and obtain an arrest warrant through a three-month investigation, the police said. The investigation included canvassing the neighborhood for surveillance footage, exchanging information with other Rhode Island law enforcement agencies for similar incidents, and checking phone records, traffic camera footage, local businesses camera surveillance, and car rental agreements, the police said.

The police are trying to find Lyons. Anyone with information is asked to contact Webb at 401-727-9100 ext. 761 or at awebb@pawtucketpolice.com.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Phone scam in RI conned elderly man out of thousands
Authorities are investigating an alleged sexual assault that occurred on the Lesley University campus last month.

Cambridge Police say a woman reported over the weekend that she was sexually assaulted on September 23 between the hours of 11 p.m. and 12:30 a.m.

The victim was allegedly approached by an unknown man in the Harvard Square area who followed her into the Lesley University campus. The man then sexually assaulted the victim in the area of St. Johns Road, according to police.

The suspect is described as a 56 tall 30-40-year-old Black man with brown eyes with a medium build. Officials say he was possibly riding a scooter and believed to have poor hygiene and facial hair.

Lesley University said in a statement theyve increased public safety patrols on campus. They are also urging the community to:

 Always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts.

 Whenever possible, travel in a group, remain on well-lit routes, and avoid wearing headphones/earbuds.

 Keep your cell phone readily available, but avoid distracting phone calls.

 If you suspect you are being followed, head for a populated area, a store or building that you know to be open and call 911 immediately.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police.

The Cambridge Police Criminal Investigations Unit and the Middlesex District Attorneys Office are investigating this case.

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




FILE PHOTO: Polish President Duda holds consultations with leaders of two main parties in newly elected parliament in Warsaw

WARSAW (Reuters) -Poland risks losing access to frozen European Union funds if it drags out the process of forming a new government, opposition leader Donald Tusk said after the president opted on Thursday not to appoint a new prime minister.

The Law and Justice (PiS) party came first in the Oct. 15 election but lost its absolute majority and is unlikely to find a coalition partner.

Three pro-European parties say they are ready to form a cabinet led by Tusk and have urged President Andrzej Duda not to delay his appointment.

Duda said he would convene the first sitting of the newly elected parliament on Nov. 13, but did not announce whom he would ask to form a new government.

"If the president quickly acknowledges the reality that there is a majority in parliament and allows it to create a government, I guarantee that it will mean a quick payment of funds to Poland," Tusk told reporters in Brussels, where he has been meeting European Union leaders in a bid to unblock funding.

However, speaking before an EU summit in Brussels, Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki said PiS "has the largest number of lawmakers ... we are a party that has won the elections for the third time."

At stake is Poland's access to 35.4 billion euros ($37.33 billion) in grants and loans from the EU's COVID-19 recovery fund, which the bloc has suspended until Warsaw rolls back reforms critics say undermine the independence of its judiciary system.

The same concerns are blocking Poland's access to 76.5 billion euros of EU cohesion funds, meant to raise the standard of living in poorer regions.

Access to the cohesion funds can be unblocked at any time as part of the EU's seven-year budget.

Poland has requested adjustments to the amount of money it receives in COVID-19 recovery funds which brings the total to nearly 60 billion euros. These additional funds could be lost if an agreement on them is not reached by the end of this year.

Duda, a PiS ally, said the preliminary date for the lower house's session was the soonest this could be done. He did not say who he would appoint as prime minister, with both Tusk and Morawiecki claiming the role.

Duda has 30 days from election day to convene the first session of the new parliament and then 14 days to nominate a candidate for prime minister.

(Reporting by Anna Wlodarczak-Semczuk, Alan Charlish, Pawel Florkiewicz, additional reporting by Jan Strupczewski in Brussels; editing by Mark Heinrich, Hugh Lawson, Angus MacSwan and Giles Elgood)
The level of trust in government bodies, especially in the president, "increased significantly" in Ukraine after Russia launched its 2022 full-scale invasion, according to a recent poll by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS).

Around 73% of respondents trust President Volodymyr Zelensky, 54% trust the government, 49% and 51% trust the regional and local authorities, respectively, the poll results show.

The confidence in Zelensky and the government is higher among young Ukrainians and people with high incomes, while residents of Ukraine's eastern regions showed the lowest level of trust in the authorities.

Compared to 2021, Ukrainians expressed higher trust in law enforcement as well, with the National Guard's numbers having risen from 50% to 72%, the Security Service  from 23% to 59%, and the National Police  from 30% to 56%.

Read also: EuroMaidan murders case: Why is the verdict criticized, and why is it about Russia?

Meanwhile, almost half of Ukrainians don't trust domestic media, and 31% don't trust NGOs, according to the survey conducted at the request of the European Union Advisory Mission in Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine).

As for trust in the EU and NATO, 65% and 59% of respondents gave positive responses, respectively. At the same time, 77% of Ukrainians said it was important for them that Ukraine join the EU.

KIIS interviewed 2,005 adults from all Ukrainian regions except for Russian-occupied and front-line territories. The survey took place on Sept. 4-20.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
A popular restaurant chain known for its scratch-made Southern food is expanding in the Charlotte region.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen and Bar, based in Asheville, will join seven other newly signed tenants at Christenbury Village in Concord, developer MPV Properties said Wednesday. The 17-acre mixed-use development, about a mile west of Concord Mills, began construction earlier this year.

Tupelo Honey kitchen and bar will debut in fall 2024 in a 5,779-square-foot space with a patio, according to MVP.

Christenbury Village at Christenbury Parkway and Cox Mill Road will be anchored by Winston-Salem-based grocer Lowes Foods. The 52-000-square-foot store is expected to also open in fall 2024, according to MPV.

About Tupelo Honey Cafe

Tupelo Honey serves brunch, lunch and dinner.

The menu includes Southern dishes such as pimento cheese dip, fried green tomatoes, chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and honey-dusted bone-in fried chicken.

Tupelo Honey opened an uptown Charlotte cafe in 2019.

Founded in 2020, Tupelo Honey has 22 stores in 14 states across the country. There are four stores in North Carolina in with two locations in Asheville, one each in Raleigh and Charlotte, and two in South Carolina in Greenville and Myrtle Beach. Tupelo plans to open eight more stores, including Concord and Columbia, according to the companys website.

More tenants at Christenbury Village

Tupelo Honey will be joined by seven other tenants that have signed leases at at Christenbury Village, MPV said.

Fleet Feet, a California-based running shoe and apparel store, will open next door to Tupelo Honey in a space that is 1,726 square feet.

Other tenants at the center will be Ultra Nail Bar, Cookie Co., Beem Light Sauna, Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming, Petfolk Veterinary Clinic and Heartland Dental.

Christenbury Village in Concord signs eight new tenants, including Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen and Bar, according to developer MPV Properties.

About Christenbury Village

Christenbury Village  115,892-square-foot, mixed-use retail center  will have five buildings, plus the grocery store.

According to MPVs master plan:

Building one is a five-story, mixed-use space with 100 apartments and 14,268-square-feet of retail.

Building two is a two-story, 23,200-square-foot medical office.

Building three is a one-story with 7,505-square-feet of retail space.

Building four is a one-story with 7,649-square-feet of retail space.

Building five is a five-story, mixed-use space with 52 apartments and 11,523-square-feet of retail.
The claim: Post implies NASA space shuttle can't travel faster than jet due to its design

A Sept. 15 Facebook post (direct link, archive link) shows a meme made up of two images. One is a Lockheed Martin SR-71 "Blackbird" jet with a streamlined shape and proportionally large engines. The other is a NASA Space Shuttle Orbiter, which is much more bulbous and has proportionally smaller engines.

The jet is labeled: "This is the design that an airplane needs to reach a top speed of MACH 3.2."

The space shuttle is labeled: "So if you believe this thing is able to reach a maximum speed of MACH 23, you are not thinking clearly."

The meme was posted on a Facebook page that promotes flat Earth theory  the erroneous idea that Earth is flat instead of a globe. Flat Earth proponents often wrongly claim that space isn't real and use purported inconsistencies in scientific narratives about space or space travel to bolster their errant claims.

The post was shared more than 1,000 times in less than a week.

Follow us on Facebook! Like our page to get updates throughout the day on our latest debunks

Our rating: Missing context

The implied claim is wrong. The NASA space shuttle travels much faster at top speeds than the SR-71. The space shuttle is launched with the aid of huge rocket boosters not shown in the photo and only reaches top speeds at elevations where there is virtually no air resistance. The SR-71 jet moves more slowly because it must reach its top speeds under its own power and against the friction of Earth's atmosphere.

Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird strategic reconnaissance aircraft operates under different conditions than NASA Space Shuttle Orbiter

The two flightcraft reach different rates of speed because they have different propulsion systems and operate under different conditions, David Meade, a NASA aeronautics spokesperson, told USA TODAY.

The SR-71 requires an atmosphere to generate lift and uses its high-powered engines to travel very fast at very high altitudes, roughly 80,000 feet above sea level, he said in an email. While the atmosphere is much thinner at that altitude, there is still friction, enough to heat the leading edge of the craft hundreds of degrees.

This limits the aircraft's speed.

"The SR-71 Blackbird is designed to take off under its own power and accelerate itself to its high cruising speed," Amy Pritchett, head of the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Pennsylvania State University, told USA TODAY.

Its shape is intended to minimize air resistance while traveling in the atmosphere, Meade said.

However, the space shuttle is designed to leave the Earth's atmosphere after being accelerated into orbit by enormous and powerful rockets  much larger than the engines on the SR-71. These rockets, which are not shown in the meme, are jettisoned after lift-off, according to Meade.

"After the solid rockets are jettisoned, the main engines provide thrust, which accelerates the shuttle from 3,000 mph to over 17,000 mph in just 6 minutes to reach orbit," he said in an email. "These speeds are possible in space because there is no longer any atmosphere to create resistance or friction against the spacecraft."

The bulbous shape of the space shuttle is actually used to slow it down when it re-enters the atmosphere traveling at 17,500 miles per hour.

"Its using its shape in the atmosphere to slow itself down from orbital speeds ... to a landing speed around 250 mph," Pritchett said in an email. "It helps that it is blunt and buff. Indeed, to decelerate it faces its whole belly into the airflow, pointing its insulation tiles to handle the incredible heat that builds up."

Fact check: Rocket propulsion functions in space because of universal physical laws, no air required

The speed attributed to the SR-71 in the meme  MACH 3.2  is roughly accurate.

The SR-71 "is typically described as being tailored for Mach 3+, meaning that it flies at over three times the speed of sound," Pritchett said in an email.

When cruising at about 75,000 to 80,000 feet above Earth's surface, that equals more than 2,000 miles per hour, according to Smithsonian Magazine.

The speed attributed to the space shuttle in the meme is also roughly accurate  with a caveat.

The space shuttle orbits Earth at about 17,500 miles per hour, which would roughly equal MACH 23 if it were traveling at sea level.

However, MACH numbers do not have fixed values. Instead, they are tied to the speed of sound, which changes depending on atmospheric conditions, Pritchett said.

For instance, when the shuttle re-enters the atmosphere traveling at 17,500 mph, it's technically traveling at closer to MACH 25 because the speed of sound in the upper atmosphere is different than at sea level.

Either way, the shuttle cannot travel at thousands of miles per hour in Earth's atmosphere for a sustained period. It is either heading into orbit or slowing down upon entry.

The Facebook user who shared the post could not be reached.

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: Space shuttle reaches top speeds in space, not atmosphere | Fact check
CPC delegation visits Benin

Xinhua) 09:56, October 26, 2023

LOME, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC) led by Wang Junwei, director of the Academic and Editorial Committee of the Institute of Party History and Literature of the CPC Central Committee, visited Benin from Sunday to Wednesday.

During the visit, the delegation held meetings with President of the Republican Bloc Abdoulaye Bio Tchane and Vice President of the Progressive Union for Renewal Gerard Gbenonchi, elaborating on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the decisions and plans laid out by the 20th CPC National Congress.

The two sides also exchanged views on strengthening inter-party interactions and deepening relations between the two countries.

The Beninese side expressed its willingness to increase exchanges with the Chinese side on state governance and continue to promote the development of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
KHARTOUM, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations humanitarian coordinator in Sudan voiced Thursday deep concerns over reports of continued attacks against civilian infrastructure as brutal fighting still rages in the North African country.

The facilities are necessary for the functioning of basic services, including water, sanitation, and health care, Clementine Nkweta-Salami said in a statement released by the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Sudan.

"Over the past six months, I have repeatedly called on the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and all parties to Sudan's conflict to protect civilian infrastructure. International humanitarian law is clear in this regard," she said.

"The conflict has caused untold suffering in Sudan at a scale never seen before," she said, adding "I implore the parties, yet again, to end this terrible agony by silencing the guns."

She noted that on Oct. 9, four people were killed in shelling on Al Nao Hospital, one of the last functioning hospitals in Omdurman city, while the attack on the Al Manara water treatment plant in the city on Oct. 21 led to a halt to the water supply.

Deadly clashes have been going on between the SAF and the paramilitary RSF in Khartoum and other areas since April 15, killing up to 9,000 people, forcing more than 5.6 million out of their homes and leaving 25 million in need of aid, said UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths in a statement on Oct. 15. 
Pottawatomie County jail officials covered up the deaths of detainees in their care. On Wednesday, the jails second in command was promoted and given a bonus.

Capt. Bobby Thompson trains and supervises detention officers and conducts internal investigations when a detainee is injured or dies. The results of those investigations are turned over to jail administrator Breonna Thompson, Bobby Thompsons boss and wife.

During a meeting on Wednesday, the five members of the Pottawatomie County Public Safety Center Trust discussed Bobby Thompsons annual review behind closed doors in executive session. Neither Thompson nor his wife were in the room. After reopening the meeting to the public, the trust voted unanimously to promote Capt. Bobby Thompson to major, and approved a .50 per hour raise and $7,500 bonus.

Someone thank that young man for us, Trust Chairman Rick Stiles said.

The praise follows a September investigation by Oklahoma Watch that revealed Pottawatomie County jail officials concealed information about the deaths of seven detainees who arrived at the jail in need of medical or mental health care.

One of those detainees was Ronald Given, a Kiowa man who died in 2019 as a result of an altercation with jailers. A sergeant who accompanied Given to the hospital after the fatal struggle told state investigators that Bobby Thompson directed her to exclude bruises and swelling on Givens face from her written report. No one has been prosecuted in Givens death, which a state medical examiner ruled a homicide.

In the newest of three wrongful death lawsuits against the jail, Russell Gage filed a federal claim this month blaming the jail for the death of his father who was beaten to death by his cellmate last year.

Since Oklahoma Watch published its investigation, the jails attorneys complied with a court order to release video footage of Kellie Wrights detention to her wife, who filed a federal lawsuit against the jail in July. Wrights wife, Shelly Cailler, said when she arrived at the hospital, Wright was on life support and covered in unexplained bruises and broken bones. Wright, 50, died the day after she was booked into jail in 2021 from a brain injury caused by cardiac arrest, according to an autopsy report.

The investigation also prompted the jails attorneys to release to Oklahoma Watch some public records about the detainees who died. Other requests for public information remain unanswered.

Jail officials reported only two of the seven deaths to the Oklahoma State Health Department, which regulates the health and safety of detainees statewide. A jail inspector conducted an unannounced investigation of the Pottawatomie County Public Safety Center in August after Oklahoma Watch provided its findings to the state Health Department. The jail was found in compliance, according to the inspection report.

This month, Oklahoma Watch unearthed information about an eighth Pottawatomie County jail detainee who died under the Thompsons guard. On Sept. 2, 2021, Karl Schmeusser, 46, was transported from the jail to St. Anthony Hospital in Shawnee where he died of respiratory damage due to COVID-19, according to a state medical examiner report. Jail officials did not report his death to the state Health Department.

Pottawatomie County prosecutor Adam Panter said Wednesday that an investigation into the jails handling of those deaths is ongoing.

Phil Bacharach, spokesman for the attorney generals office, said he could not confirm or deny the existence of an investigation into the Pottawatomie County jail.

Whitney Bryen is an investigative reporter at Oklahoma Watch covering vulnerable populations. Her recent investigations focus on mental health and substance abuse, criminal justice, domestic violence and nursing homes. Contact her at (405) 201-6057 or wbryen@oklahomawatch.org. Follow her on Twitter @SoonerReporter.

Oklahoma Watch

Oklahoma Watch, at oklahomawatch.org, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that covers public-policy issues facing the state.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Pott. County jail investigator gets raise despite cover-up allegations
Israeli soldiers move a tank at a staging area near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel on Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. | Ohad Zwigenberg, Associated Press

President Joe Biden sent a foreign aid request to Congress on Oct. 20 totaling $106 billion. The bill included funding for Ukraine, Israel and Bidens immigration priorities and was presented as a package deal.

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, has joined with a group of Republican senators to propose splitting off funds for Israel, according to The Wall Street Journal.

Whats included in the bill?

The Washington Post reported Bidens bill would allocate $14 billion in aid to Israel, $61 billion in funding to Ukraine, $14 billion for immigration and $10 billion for humanitarian aid. Unherd included that the bill promised $7.4 billion for Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific.

Some Republican members of Congress have become more opposed to sending money to Ukraine, and Bidens bill would tie funding Israel with sending $61 billion more to Ukraine to aid in its war with Russia.

Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young said, It is the presidents job, our job, to make clear to Congress what the needs are, what happens if this critical funding is not delivered.

She continued, We are doing our job by letting Congress know what these critical needs are and we expect them to act and act swiftly, per Politico.

Related

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., also responded to Bidens aid package and said, Its pretty clear that the supplemental that was sent over is just a starting point. We are going to go over it with a fine tooth comb, ABC reported.

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., responded to Bidens funding request in a statement. He said, There is overwhelming bipartisan support for Israel and we can get an aid package passed in the Senate quickly. The same cannot be said about Bidens asks on Ukraine aid, which is far broader than just lethal aid to defeat Putin.

How would Biden prioritize money for the border?

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, raised concerns with the bill over where it would allocate money for border security. He told Fox News, The border funding that is included is all designed to accelerate the processing of illegal immigration. In other words, its not designed to stop the crisis at our southern border. Its designed to make it worse.

The Office of Management and Budget sent a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., on the specific breakdown of proposed funds. It described its goal of stopping fentanyl from entering the country and outlined a request for an additional 1,300 border patrol agents, 375 immigration judge teams, 1,600 asylum officers to speed up processing of asylum claims, 1,000 Customs and Border Protection officers, detection technology for the southwest border, and investigative capabilities to prevent cartels from trafficking fentanyl.
Flags will be flying at half-staff across Florida and the U.S. through the weekend in honor of the victims in Lewiston, Maine.

President Biden ordered the U.S. flag to be flown at half-staff starting Thursday, Oct. 26, as a mark of respect for the victims of the Wednesday mass shooting.

Eighteen people were killed and 13 were injured in the Wednesday night rampage that took place at a bowling alley and a bar, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said at a news conference Thursday morning.

School districts canceled classes and authorities warned residents in and around Lewiston to stay inside and lock their doors as investigators launched a massive search for Robert Card, a 40-year-old firearms instructor, who police identified as the suspect in the case.

What is a mass shooting? There's no consensus definition, but here's what you should know

Why is the flag at half-staff today in Florida?

Biden ordered the flag to be flown at half-staff as a "mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence" that took place Oct. 25, 2023, in Lewiston.

Where should flags be flown at half-staff?

The flag of the United States should be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, Oct. 30, 2023.

Biden also directed that the flag be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all U.S. embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

How long will the flag be at half-staff?

The flag should be flown at half-staff until sunset on Monday, Oct. 30.

Is it half-mast or half-staff?

On ships and at naval stations ashore, flags are flown at half-mast.

On shore, flags are flown at half-staff.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: US flags flying half-staff out of respect Maine shooting victims
Fox News spoke on the cancer in America that is mental health, following the most recent mass shooting in Maine, with presidential candidate Nikki Haley.

Fox News  How do we prevent mass shootings?

On Hannity Wednesday night, Sean Hannity spoke with Haley about mental health while police were still searching for a person of interest suspected of shooting and killing at least 16 people in two different locations in Lewiston, Maine.

What do you see as the underlying cause of a lot of these shootings? Hannity asked Haley.

Haley emphasized that the world is on fire with violence and it needs to be taken seriously.

That means we need serious law and order. That means we need to defund sanctuary cities, but that means we need to acknowledge the cancer in America that is mental health, Haley said.

One in three Americans suffers from mental health, she added. If treated, they can live a perfectly normal life. If not, it spirals out. ... Were watching now, 80% of our mass shootings are mental health related.

Haley said that 70% of mass shooters are also suicidal, and because of this, there needs to be mental health counselors in every school to help identify people who are struggling.

When are we going to say enough is enough, and when are we going to start to heal and say, Weve got to start getting sober and start realizing weve got to take things into our own hands and start getting our country strong again? Haley said.

Related
(Bloomberg) -- Slovakias Robert Fico returned to the nations premiership with a pledge to challenge European Union policies including migration and sanctions against Russia.

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President Zuzana Caputova appointed Fico and his cabinet at a ceremony in the capital Bratislava on Wednesday, less than a month after he won an election with pledges to boost social spending. Fico, who served as prime minister over three terms between 2006 and 2018, may make an appearance alongside EU peers in Brussels this week.

The 59-year-old premier, a Social Democrat who has become more vocal in opposing measures against the Kremlin, migration and LGBTQ rights, will join ally Viktor Orban of Hungary in seeking to disrupt liberal European conventions. Taking a cue from Orban, Fico has promised changes to Slovakias judiciary, police and the special prosecutors office.

While Fico wants to keep the eastern European nation of 5.4 million in the EU and NATO, he campaigned to stop Slovakias weapon shipments to Kyiv and to restore a basic standardization of relations between the 27-member bloc and Russia.

The new premier had aimed to be sworn in in time to attend an EU summit meeting in Brussels, which takes place Thursday and Friday. He said hell lobby to maintain unanimous voting among EU members on major decisions.

If a country were to lose the veto right, then membership in the European Union loses its meaning, Fico told the public broadcaster RTVS on Tuesday.

Ficos Smer will lead a three-party coalition, which includes center-left Voice under erstwhile ally Peter Pellegrini and the Slovak National Party, which shares Ficos opposition to migration and LGBTQ rights.

--With assistance from Daniel Hornak.

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The Danish government has announced the supply of a new military aid package worth 3.7 billion Danish crowns, or about US$520 million, to Ukraine, which was formed after the meeting of Defence Ministers of Denmark and Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda, with reference to the press service of the Ministry of Defence of Denmark

Details: The new Danish aid package will include the T-72EA tanks, BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, artillery ammunition, drones, small arms and armoured maintenance and evacuation vehicles. The supply of the latter is financed jointly with Germany.

"These are equipment and ammunition, for which there is also demand in Ukraine, and which are decisive for maintaining the combat capability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine," the statement reads.

Troels Lund Poulsen, Danish Minister of Defence, remarked that the aid package was formed after the meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umierov.

"Todays aid confirms that Ukraine can count on the uninterrupted support of Denmark in its fight for freedomIt also sends an important signal to both Ukraine and Russia that we are not losing the attention even despite the fact that these days the focus is on Israel and Palestine," said Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lkke Rasmussen.

Background:

In August Denmark announced the supply of 19 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in total.

Head of the Danish Defence Ministry stated earlier that the first batch of the F-16s may be delivered to Ukraine in spring 2024.

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The University of Houston is among four state universities that would qualify for additional research funding if Texas voters approve Proposition 5. Credit: Michael Stravato for The Texas Tribune

For years, the University of Texas at Austin and Texas A&M University have represented Texas as the top two public research institutions in the state. Those who support schools with colors other than burnt orange or maroon lament that the schools have gained prestige by tapping a $32 billion endowment that helps them attract top faculty, increase research funding and construct new buildings.

This year, Texas lawmakers established a new path for other public universities interested in joining the Longhorns and Aggies in the upper echelon of nationally ranked schools.

They created the Texas University Fund, a $3.9 billion endowment to help other emerging research universities across the state enhance their research capabilities with the goal of joining the top public institutions across the country.

Proposition 5, a constitutional amendment to authorize the state to create the new endowment, is in front of Texas voters in the Nov. 7 election. Early voting started this week on that and 13 other proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution.

To back Proposition 5, lawmakers put a one-time allotment of $3 billion from the states budget surplus toward the fund. An additional $900 million will be rolled into this new endowment from the National Research University Fund, created more than a decade ago to finance research universities. If approved by voters, the state would also contribute $100 million annually from interest accrued on the states rainy day fund.

The endowment, to be managed by the Texas Treasury Safekeeping Trust Co., does not require any new taxes to pay for it.

State officials say increasing the number of top-ranked universities in the state will drive local and statewide economic growth and keep Texas competitive.

We're the eighth-largest economy in the world, said Texas Higher Education Commissioner Harrison Keller. We need more research universities that are able to compete with the strongest research and development institutions in the world.

Currently, California has nine schools on the list of the top 50 public universities, according to the U.S. News and World Report, where faculty research heavily factors into rankings. Florida has three universities on the list.

Theres a correlation there, said Texas Tech President Lawrence Scovanec. They're more competitive for those federal investments in research because they're performing at a very high level, and I think the Legislature wanted to see Texas have more schools at a preeminent level.

Public universities have two main goals: educating students and advancing knowledge through research that betters society.

Large grants require matching funds, and universities need to show that they can provide some financial commitment as well. The TUF funds will allow qualifying schools to become more competitive for grants.

So far, four public universities qualify to receive money from the endowment: Texas Tech University, Texas State University, the University of Houston and the University of North Texas. To qualify, schools must have spent at least $20 million on federal or private research annually for the preceding three years and awarded an average of at least 45 doctoral degrees annually during the previous three years.

The university that is next closest to qualifying to enter the new fund is Texas A&M University at Corpus Christi, Keller said.

Jason Smith, vice president of governmental affairs at the University of Houston System, said that without a steady stream of funding at the level the TUF fund could provide, the university has had to make difficult decisions on whether to spend money on research or to improve student services, like mental health counseling or tutoring. Investing in research brings in more federal funding, improves national rankings and attracts more competitive students and top faculty, he said.

We probably can't invest like we should or like Texas A&M and UT can in academic counselors and mental health services and all the things you need at a university now for your students to be successful, Smith said. We needed to do that to build our research capabilities in order to draw down more federal funds and improve our rankings and attract more competitive students.

Improving the academic stature and national reputation of these emerging research institutions also makes them more attractive places to enroll, which has a positive economic impact, Smith said.

There's not enough space at UT and Texas A&M for all of the students that we need to educate in our state and keep them in our state, he said, pointing to the tens of thousands of students who leave Texas annually for colleges elsewhere, never to return.

If the research fund is approved, early estimates show, Texas Tech would receive $44 million in the first year; UH would receive $48 million; Texas State could get $22 million and UNT would receive $21 million, according to state budget figures.

Each year, the comptroller would appropriate up to 7% of the investment assets of the fund for distribution to the universities. Three-fourths of that money would be distributed to the endowment and then sent to the schools. Tech and UH would each receive one-third of that money, while UNT and Texas State would split the remaining third.

The remaining 25% of the distribution would be provided to the four schools based on performance. Within that performance funding tier, 85% of the money would be distributed to the universities based on the annual money spent on research, and 15% would depend on the number of doctoral degrees awarded.

Lawmakers designed the TUF fund so that if another university meets the benchmark qualifications, or if a university already receiving funding improves its performance and qualifies for more funding, the state is required to add money to the TUF. The goal is to avoid what happened to the previous research fund, known as NRUF, which was created more than a decade ago to improve research at schools other than UT-Austin and Texas A&M. But that fund was designed so that, as more universities qualified, the amount of money for each school declined.

When Texas Tech and UH first qualified in 2012, they each received around $16 million per year from the National Research University Fund. Last year, that amount was closer to $7 million.

If a majority of voters approved Proposition 5, universities will be required to spend fund money on research activity. UH said it plans to renovate an existing research facility and add faculty. Texas Tech said it plans to add 100 to 150 faculty over the next decade. UNT President Neal Smatresk said the money would help the school increase enrollment and meet workforce needs in North Texas. Texas State officials said they plan to recruit more faculty whose research focuses on artificial intelligence, life sciences, energy and semiconductors.

It will also allow more Texas students to remain in state for their education and gain high-demand, high-tech skills so that they may play critical roles in filling the workforce demands of major industries moving into Texas, Shreek Mandayam, vice president for research at Texas State, said in an email.

Disclosure: Texas A&M University, Texas Tech University, University of Texas at Austin, University of Houston and University of North Texas have been financial supporters of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

The Texas Tribune partners with Open Campus on higher education coverage.
The rise of gene-edited embryos has raised a myriad of ethical questions. It involves altering DNA to prevent disease or even to choose specific traits using a method known as CRISPR. In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui created the first gene-edited babies, making them resistant to HIV. While the process is controversial, many researchers see the potential in the technology if properly regulated. "Clinical trial results demonstrate that CRISPR is safe, and its effective for treating and curing human disease," remarked Jennifer Doudna , who won the Nobel Prize in 2020 for discovering CRISPR. "Its important with a powerful technology like this to grapple with the challenges of responsible use."

Pro: It could help treat a number of diseases

Turning to genetic modification could be a solution for a number of genetic diseases including sickle cell anemia, muscular dystrophy and cancer. This can be done through modifying human embryos to correct the genetic issue. "There are more than 10,000 single genetic mutations that collectively affect probably hundreds of millions of people around the world," Shoukhrat Mitalipov, a biologist at the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, told NPR . "We could help a lot of people." Genetic engineering technology can also make crops disease-resistant, seedless or able to bear larger fruit.

Con: It could create greater health divide between developing and developed nations

While the technology has "great potential," its also "very expensive," Robin Lovell-Badge of the Francis Crick Institute told The Guardian . "A treatment for one person could cost a million dollars." According to the World Health Organization , there are also "an estimated two billion people have no access to essential medicines, effectively shutting them off from the benefits of advances in modern science and medicine." Equity in medical access has been a long-standing problem. "We have to start talking early on about ways to ... make [gene therapy] cost-effective and sustainable," Alta Charo from the University of Wisconsin at Madison told CNN.

Pro: It could help aging populations

Genetic modification could help populations live longer and healthier, particularly when it comes to combating genetic diseases like Alzheimers. An estimated 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older live with the disease, according to the Alzheimers Association . "The aging population is of grave importance as both a socioeconomic issue and a strain on the medical system," remarked He Jiankui, per CNN. The biggest issue is that editing an embryo "to address a complex disease that affects people toward the end of their life" is "highly questionable," Peter Droge, an associate professor at the Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, told CNN.

Con: It could lead to eugenics

Opening the door to modifying embryos can be a slippery slope into eugenics. "Genome editing has made it easier to imagine 'improving' human traits," Ruth Garde, curator of Cut + Paste, a public exhibition about genome-editing technology, told The Guardian. There are no guidelines on when to use genetic modification on humans, which brings up a debate on what circumstances warrant it. "Some people will agree that using genome editing to modify a defective gene that may lead to an infant's death if untreated is acceptable," but are against using it to "ensure that an unborn child has specific physical features such as blue eyes or blond hair," The Conversation reported.

Pro: It could help infertile parents have children

Scientists have explored a method called in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), a process that allows for "custom-making human eggs and sperm in the laboratory from any cell in a person's body," per NPR . "IVF will probably never be the same," said Eli Adashi, a reproductive biology specialist from Brown University. The technology could be "life-altering for individuals to build that family that they dream of," Andrea Braverman, who studies infertility at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, told the outlet. IVG opens the possibility for infertile and gay couples to have biological children.

Con: Could lead to new genetic diseases

Much is still unknown about the consequences of genetically modifying embryos. "Experiments have also shown that in about 20% of cases, these genome-editing changes can lead to substantial rearrangements of a persons genome, which is very, very dangerous," remarked Lovell-Badge. "It could cause cancer." Along with potentially causing disease, genome editing could also "create new genetic diseases that could then be passed down for generations," essentially expanding the range of genetic diseases rather than reducing it, NPR reported. This has led to even more questions surrounding ethics.
Correction: This story was updated at 8:55 a.m. on Oct. 26, 2023, to correct the prosecutor's sentencing recommendation. The Herald-Mail apologizes for the mistake.

A Washington County prosecutor is recommending almost a yearlong sentence in jail for a former Hagerstown man, but would ask for all of that time to be suspended if he pays close to $4,000 in restitution in an animal cruelty case by his sentencing hearing in two months.

If Allan Hall, 59, doesn't pay the full $3,824.36 by the sentencing hearing, Assistant State's Attorney Danielle Lackovic said she would ask for a portion of the sentence to be imposed as active jail time. The state would still want Hall to make restitution to the Humane Society of Washington County while on probation with some suspended jail time.

Allan Hall, who now has a Bethesda, Md., address, pleaded guilty Tuesday to four misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty in Washington County District Court in a case in which one of the dogs ended up dying after the humane society seized three dogs due to emergency conditions.

Hall owes the humane society $3,824.36 in restitution for medical and boarding costs, Lackovic told Judge Mark D. Thomas on Tuesday afternoon.

More court news: Hagerstown man sentenced for pointing gun at passing motorist

Assistant Public Defender Matthew Bronson asked for 120 days before sentencing to give his client time to come up with close to $4,000.

Thomas gave Hall 60 days and told him to be creative in coming up with the money.

"If you have to sell a car, sell a car," Thomas said.

People don't always realize how many resources they have, the judge said.

Thomas then explained that sentencing in such cases isn't supposed to "drag out long" and legislative changes to the restitution process also were a factor.

What conditions were the German shepherds found in that led to their emergency seizure?

The case involves three German shepherds found with tarps thrown over their kennels on a hot July day this summer, according to Lackovic and charging documents.

A humane society field services officer received an emergency call on July 13 about three large dogs locked in a hot shed with no air flow at a residence the officer had previously responded to in February 2022, Lackovic told the judge.

The officer arrived to find the dogs in the same shed as the prior year, with two small windows open in the front and tarps surrounding all sides of the kennels leading out from the building, according to charging documents.

A "very thin" German shepherd, Tallka, was in one kennel with an empty water bucket so the officer provided her water from a hose, court documents state. The officer posted a 24-hour abandonment notice at 5 p.m. on the shed door. The officer explained the process to neighbors, who came out and asked if he was taking the dogs because Hall hadn't been there in a week.

The next day, the officer received a 911 call about dogs locked in a shed at the same Dunn Irvin Drive address in Hagerstown, court records state.

He returned to the property around 1 p.m. to find the dogs inside and the notice still posted.

The water bucket he filled the prior day was empty and on its side. The other two German shepherds had "just enough water to cover the bottom of the buckets," court documents state.

The "very thin" dog had hair hanging from the dog not shedding its coat and several teeth broken down to her gums.

Another German shepherd, Zeus, also was thin and the third German shepherd, Tala, appeared to have a good weight, court records state. All three dogs had curled nails and hanging hair from not shedding.

The temperature inside the shed was 97 degrees and there was no air flow even with the two small windows.

The abandonment notice was still posted and no corrections had been made, with the floors still plywood and soaked with urine, court records state. There also was dried feces on the floors and a pungent odor that "took your breath away."

The officer contacted the State's Attorney's office and officials decided to remove the dogs under emergency conditions with Hagerstown Police present, court records state.

Dr. Karen Nelson, a veterinarian with the humane society, noted the dog's conditions, including that Tallka had ribs visible through her haircoat and other prominent bones, according to charging documents. Tallka had a wound on her nose, missing teeth and several teeth ground down, indicative of chewing hard objects over a long time.

Tallka weighed 49.5 pounds, Tala weighed 71 pounds and Zeus was 76 pounds, according to court records.

On July 17, Tallka died suddenly in her kennel, found dead about 30 minutes after being bathed.

A necropsy determined Tallka's cause of death was pneumothorax and her manner of death was a ruptured pulmonary bullae.

Interviewed Tuesday, Nelson explained that an air sac in Tallka's lung enlarged, slowly rupturing the lung and affecting her ability to breath.

Nelson said the other two German shepherds, Zeus and Tala, were still at the humane society shelter. They had gained weight and were doing well. Both dogs are around 10 years old.

Nelson didn't have an age for Tallka, but said she was an older dog.

Plea deal in animal cruelty case with dogs left in hot shed

Hall pleaded guilty Tuesday to four of the 18 misdemeanor animal cruelty counts with which he'd been charged.

Three of those counts are for inflicting unnecessary suffering or pain on Tallka, Tala and Zeus, according to court records. The other count is for unnecessarily failing to provide Tallka with necessary veterinary care while she was in his care and custody.

The maximum penalty for each of those counts is 90 days and a $1,000 fine.

Under the plea deal, the other 14 counts are dismissed.

Lackovic also asked for two years supervised probation, transferable to Montgomery County, and that Hall's probation conditions include he not own, care for or have custody of any animals.

Hall told the judge he works for a charter bus company.

Bronson could not immediately be reached for comment.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Maryland man pleads after German shepherds found in hot kennels
On Jan. 7, 2021, a security camera videotaped what appears to be Coffee County GOP leader Cathy Latham (center rear) and others breaching the county elections office. (Coffee County, Ga., via the Associated Press)

They were running out of time and needed a Hail Mary.

Joe Biden had won the electoral college vote in the 2020 presidential election. And with less than three weeks before Congress was set to certify the results on Jan. 6, 2021, allies of then-President Trump met with him in the Oval Office to discuss taking desperate measures.

Following dozens of failed challenges to the election in court, and with plans to ask lawmakers to throw out some state results, Trump operatives including former national security advisor Michael Flynn drafted an executive order intended to allow the administration to seize voting machines. To the horror of White House lawyers, the president was being urged to sign it.

Named in two drafts of the order to help justify the seizure was Coffee County, Ga., where officials had refused to certify the results of the presidential election  a clear indicator there had been fraud, Trumps allies argued. A last gasp in the frantic efforts to keep Trump in office, the eventual breach of election systems in the rural southeastern Georgia county would go on to become a critical part of the sweeping racketeering indictment filed in Atlanta in August alleging a broad conspiracy by the former president and 18 co-defendants.

Together, depositions and other court documents, testimony to the House Select Jan. 6 Committee and public statements made by those involved provide one of the most comprehensive accounts to date of what happened in Coffee County  and the role it played in the final days of the futile endeavor to ensure Trump remained in the White House.

As the now-infamous Dec. 18 Oval Office gathering devolved into a chaotic, hours-long shouting match between Trump operatives and the White House lawyers, Trump attorney Rudolph W. Giuliani stepped in to wave the president off from signing the executive order. Voluntary access to a Georgia voting system was in the works, Giuliani told Trump, according to testimony before the Jan. 6 committee, making the order unnecessary.

It was part of a new strategy, Giuliani said on former Trump advisor Stephen K. Bannon's podcast the next day, to use evidence obtained from voting machines to circumvent Republican governors  like Brian Kemp of Georgia  who were unwilling to continue investigating allegations of fraud. "Just push em aside," Giuliani said.

Its unclear whether Giuliani noted where in Georgia that access would be provided. But shortly before the contentious Oval Office meeting, he had met with an unnamed whistleblower a block away at the storied Willard InterContinental Washington. Giuliani associate Bernard Kerik paid for that person's room.

The identity of the whistleblower has not been made public.

Staying at the Willard at that time was Coffee County GOP leader Cathy Latham. She later told a court she'd gone to Washington to tour a museum, but refused to say whether she'd met with anyone during her visit.

Weeks later, on Jan. 7, 2021  after rioters were cleared from the Capitol and the vote had finally been certified  a surveillance camera captured what appeared to be Latham escorting a team, reportedly sent by Trump attorney Sidney Powell , into the Coffee County elections office to access voting machines.

Powell pleaded guilty last week to six misdemeanor counts of conspiracy to commit intentional interference with performance of election duties, part of a deal that requires her to testify and provide evidence for prosecutors.

Latham can be seen on surveillance video taking a selfie with a member of the group, which included Atlanta bail bondsman Scott Hall, who was indicted by Fulton County Dist. Atty. Fani Willis on Aug. 14 alongside Latham, Powell and former Coffee County elections supervisor Misty Hampton. Hall pleaded guilty in September to five misdemeanor counts of conspiracy to commit intentional interference with performance of election duties.

Several unnamed and unindicted alleged co-conspirators are also mentioned in the 98-page indictment in connection with the Coffee County effort, which appears to be the only successful attempt by Trump allies to access federally protected election equipment that the former president was told about while he was in office.

::

Allegations of fraud in Coffee County were brought to Trump operatives one week after the Nov. 5, 2020, election, when Hampton and a fellow Board of Elections member contacted the campaign about a presentation the elections supervisor had given to warn that bad actors could manipulate the states Dominion Voting Systems machines.

In the presentation, Hampton pointed to a routine process in elections administration called adjudication, in which a panel typically composed of representatives of both the Republican and Democratic parties reviews hand-marked ballots that are not clear to try to determine the voters intent. She argued that adjudication was open to fraud, and was filmed demonstrating how she believed an elections administrator could flip votes during the process.

In a deposition for Curling vs. Raffensperger, an unrelated case over Georgia election machine security that uncovered the Coffee County breach, Trump campaign staffer Robert Sinners said that he had forwarded the Coffee County information to campaign lawyers, but that he thought Hampton's allegations were "a lot of speculation."

Read more: The Trump indictments: Key figures and alleged co-conspirators in his 4 criminal cases

The next month, on Dec. 3, 2020, Giuliani testified before a Georgia legislative subcommittee looking into possible election fraud. Hall also testified.

The hearing took place as the state was conducting a third recount of ballots. The Coffee County Board of Elections had refused to certify its results for that recount, citing an inability to repeatedly duplicate creditable election results.

On Dec. 7, 2020, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, certified that Joe Biden had won Georgia, with a subsequent investigation by his office determining that a 51-vote discrepancy cited as alleged fraud by Coffee County officials was the result of human error.

Despite Raffensperger's certification, a lawyer working with the Trump campaign filed a lawsuit in state court on Dec. 12, seeking to throw out Georgia's presidential election results, citing Coffee Countys refusal to certify the electronic recount. The plaintiff in that suit was Shawn Still, a fake elector also charged in the Fulton County indictment.

Latham, then chairwoman of the Coffee County GOP, traveled to Washington a couple of days later. She said in her deposition from the unrelated election security case that she was there with a tour group. But she invoked the 5th Amendment right against self-incrimination when asked whether she'd met with anyone else while in Washington, and again when asked about a Dec. 17, 2020, text she sent that said, I am in D.C. right now and am about to meet with IT guys.

Lathams attorney, William Cromwell, did not reply to a request for comment from The Times about her previous statements.

Kerik, a former New York City police commissioner, told the Jan. 6 committee that he had paid for an unnamed Georgia whistleblower to stay at the Willard hotel  where Trump's allies were crafting eleventh-hour plans to persuade state and federal lawmakers to throw out votes and hand him the election. Latham has testified that she stayed at the Willard during her trip.

"They wanted to bring this person to meet [Giuliani] to discuss some issue that was going on in Georgia, and we made arrangements for them to come," Kerik said of the unidentified person he called a whistleblower.

Coffee County, Ga., GOP Chair Cathy Latham, right, and a member of a computer forensics team appear to take a selfie in this Jan. 7, 2021, image from security video of the county elections office. (Coffee County, Ga., via the Associated Press)

The plans to prevent Congress from certifying Biden's win hinged on proving evidence of fraud in the election, something Trump's team was not able to do.

So with time running out, his allies drafted proposed executive orders  dated Dec. 16 and Dec. 17, 2020  that would have directed the Defense secretary or Department of Homeland Security to seize voting machines, and called for the appointment of a special counsel to investigate the election. As part of the justification for the orders, both drafts stated that Coffee County had identified a significant percentage of votes being wrongly allocated contrary to the will of the voter, and had therefore refused to certify its result.

The Coffee County reference did not appear in the draft executive order presented to Trump in the Oval Office meeting on Dec. 18. That version would have allowed Homeland Security to seize state election machines and voting data. According to testimony provided to the House Jan. 6 committee by multiple people who attended the meeting, it devolved into a shouting match between Trump allies and White House lawyers over whether the president had the legal authority to make such an order and how the public would react.

In an effort to keep Trump from signing the order and naming Powell as special counsel, Giuliani promised that the campaign would soon have access to election machines in Georgia, former White House Staff Secretary Derek Lyons told the Jan. 6 committee in a deposition.

Read more: At far-right roadshow, Trump is God's 'anointed one,' QAnon is king, and 'everything you believe is right'

"When [Giuliani] showed up at the meeting, his position was that I believe the campaign was going to secure voluntary access to machines, and that that would be the way to prove up the compromise of the machines," Lyons said.

Powell corroborated that account in her Jan. 6 committee deposition.

I think maybe there was an effort by some people to get something out of Georgia, and I dont know what happened with that, and I dont remember whether that was Rudy [Giuliani] or other folks, she testified, saying that she wasnt aware of the details. The Fulton County indictment, however, alleges Powell's assertions that she had no knowledge of the effort were false. Powell did not return a request for comment from The Times.

Giuliani told the Jan. 6 committee that he didnt recall mentioning getting access to machines.

I don't remember that exactly, but it could be that we were negotiating with one of the boards for access to some of the machines, he testified, according to a transcript of his deposition for the panel.

Committee investigators tried to refresh his recollection by citing a Dec. 22, 2020, email from Powell to Trumps chief of staff, Mark Meadows, which stated: Georgia machine access promised in meeting Friday night to happen Sunday has not come through." (Meadows and Giuliani are both charged in the Fulton County indictment, but not in connection with the Coffee County efforts.)

Giuliani's memory was sharper when he appeared on the podcast "Bannon's War Room" on Dec. 19, 2020  a day after the raucous Oval Office meeting. Giuliani told Bannon that he had "a big project working in Georgia right now," noting that he was proceeding without the cooperation of Kemp, the state's governor, and working "right around his back."

"He doesn't know what the heck is going on," Giuliani said of Kemp. "[Trump's team] met pretty much on and off all day yesterday, and starting this morning there's a completely different strategy. The strategy is going to focus a great deal on some evidence we have about some of these machines that could throw off these states in a matter of maybe a one- or two-day audit. I think we can get these accomplished, despite the resistance and the cover-up of the Republican governors."

Associates of Giuliani working out of the Willard hotel noted in a strategic communications plan dated Dec. 27, 2020: "We Have 10 Days To Execute This Plan & Certify President Trump!" The memo cited Hampton's video presentation and Coffee County's refusal to certify its election results, saying they supported allegations of fraud and should be presented to House and Senate Republicans as reasons to halt election certification on Jan. 6.

::

Giuliani returned to Georgia on Dec. 30 to speak to the state Senate subcommittee looking into potential election fraud  led by then-state Sen. William Ligon, a Trump supporter. Also testifying were Latham and her attorney, Preston Haliburton, who described Latham to legislators as a "whistleblower." Kerik said Ligon and Haliburton had arranged to have an unnamed whistleblower speak to Giuliani in mid-December. Latham has not stated she is the whistleblower.

Latham said in her Curling vs. Raffensperger deposition that she first heard from Hall shortly after that state Senate testimony. The bail bondsman had asked for an introduction to Hampton.

Meanwhile, according to court documents, Hampton and Coffee County elections board member Eric Chaney were working on a written invitation for the Trump team to come to Coffee County. Powell provided a copy of a short note dated Dec. 31, 2020, in a filing this Sept. 27 in the Fulton County case.

"I will be speaking with my board, and per Georgia Law I do not see any problem assisting you with anything y'all need [in] accordance to Georgia Law. Y'all are welcome in [the county elections] office anytime," the unsigned letter states. Powell named the authors as Hampton and Chaney in her court filing.

Read more: The 'Johnny Appleseed of election fraud' wants to upend voting in America. Why he's focused on California

On Jan. 1, 2021, court documents show, an employee of Atlanta data forensics firm SullivanStrickler, forwarded a text message to her colleagues from Katherine," who had some news to share: "Hi! Just handed [sic] back in DC with the Mayor. Huge things starting to come together! Most immediately, we were granted access  by written invitation!  to the Coffee County Systens [sic]. Yay!"

In a Sept. 27 court filing, Powell identified the sender of the text as Katherine Friess, a lawyer working with Giuliani who participated in efforts to access machines in other states. Friess did not respond to requests for comment from The Times.

A privilege log produced in a Georgia defamation case against Giuliani  brought by election workers whom he falsely accused of mishandling ballots  shows that Friess forwarded a document to Kerik and Phil Waldron, a retired Army colonel who worked closely with Giuliani, on Jan. 1, 2021, titled "Letter of invite from Coffee County GA." The next day, she forwarded another document to Giuliani, Kerik, Waldron and two others titled "Ligon letter to DJT requesting DHS cyber audit," according to a list of records Kerik fought to withhold in the defamation suit.

Discussions about accessing Coffee County machines continued that Jan. 6.

At 4:26 p.m., moments after Trump released a video asking rioters to leave the Capitol, Hampton texted Chaney about a request to visit the Coffee County elections office: "Scott Hall is on the phone with Cathy about wanting to come scan our ballots from the general election like we talked about the other day. I am going to call you in a few.

Chaney invoked the 5th Amendment when asked about the text in a deposition for the Curling case. But Hampton confirmed in her deposition that she was speaking about Cathy Latham and said that Chaney had directed her to allow the election systems to be copied. When asked whether he'd authorized access to the elections office, Chaney again pleaded the 5th. A Coffee County elections board spokesperson told investigators that Chaney did not have the authority to give that direction.

At 7:27 p.m., the SullivanStrickler team began discussing in their text thread which employees would go to Coffee County in the morning. Representatives of SullivanStrickler, which is not charged in the Fulton County indictment, have said under oath that they believed they had permission to copy the machines.

As Congress prepared to regroup from the mob's attack to certify the election, Giuliani pleaded with Republican senators for more time.

I know [Congress is] reconvening at eight tonight, but the only strategy we can follow is to object to numerous states and raise issues so that we get ourselves into tomorrow  ideally until the end of tomorrow, he said in a voicemail left for a senator around 7 p.m., according to the federal indictment of Trump and others in connection with efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

But the GOP senators didnt provide the assistance Giuliani hoped for. At 3:41 a.m. on Jan. 7, 2021, hours after the attack on the Capitol ended, Vice President Mike Pence certified that Biden had won the election.

The Coffee County plans were already in motion.

Latham was seen on video security footage later that day escorting the SullivanStrickler team into the Coffee County elections office along with Hall, who had arranged for a private jet to fly him in from Atlanta to watch the forensic imaging process.

The team stayed for nearly eight hours, capturing digital images of the highly restricted election management system and voting machines.

In a recorded March 2021 phone call that was entered as evidence in the Curling case, Hall said the team's work was exhaustive.

"They scanned all the equipment, imaged all the hard drives and scanned every single ballot," he said.

In the end, it wasn't enough. No evidence of fraud was found.

Biden was sworn into office on Jan. 20, 2021.

Get the best of the Los Angeles Times politics coverage with the Essential Politics newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
MEHTERLAM, Afghanistan, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Police have unearthed arms and ammunition in east Afghanistan's Laghman and the neighboring Kapisa provinces, officials said Thursday.

Acting on a tip-off, police raided a house in the Alinegar district of Laghman province on Wednesday and discovered an RPG, two assault rifles and other military equipment, including hand grenades, a statement of provincial police said.

Similarly, police personnel during operations in Tagab and Kohband districts of Kapisa province have found two RPGs, three pieces of assault rifles and thousands of bullets, the statement said.

The Afghan caretaker government, which has collected thousands of arms and ammunition, including battle tanks and artillery, since assuming power in August 2021, has vowed to collect arms and ammunition from anyone living outside security entities. 
Having extorted what they could from pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies by blaming them for the overdose crisis, several state attorneys generals (AGs) have now set their sights on extorting social media platforms for causing so-called "social media addiction" among our youth. On October 24, 33 states filed a lawsuit in federal court alleging Meta "has harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage, and ultimately ensnare youth and teens."

One of the allegationsthat Meta violated federal law by collecting data on children under age 13 without parental consentis prosecutorial fair game. Not fair game, however, is the claim that "the company knowingly designed and deployed harmful features on Instagram, Facebook, and its other social media platforms that purposefully addict children and teens," as New York Attorney General Letitia James, a co-plaintiff, made in an official statement about the case.

As I wrote in 2018, the science is still unsettled as to whether social media addiction is even a thing. Scientists and clinicians agree that the distinguishing characteristic of addiction is the compulsive use of a substance or engagement in a behavior despite negative consequences. Addiction researchers have not yet reached a consensus as to whether perceived excessive time spent on the internet and engaged with social media is an addictive behavioral disorder.

The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) does not designate "internet addiction" or "social media addiction" as a mental disorder. Instead, it designates it as a "condition for further study," which is notable in light of economic incentives for the psychiatry profession to medicalize problem behaviors.

A 2009 analysis of 61 empirical articles on "internet addiction" conducted between 1996 and 2006 determined they used "inconsistent criteria to define internet addicts, applied recruiting methods that may cause serious sampling bias, and examined data using primarily exploratory rather than confirmatory data analysis techniques to investigate the degree of association rather than causal relationships among variables." A 2011 review by researchers at Nottingham Trent University also found empirical studies to have considerable limitations, restricting the "generalizability of findings." In a 2017 follow-up study, the researchers found that methodological problems persist. In a study published in 2017, Jean Twenge and colleagues at San Diego State University found that 99.64 percent of the girls' depressive symptoms did not correlate with social media use. While others have linked social media use with depression and even suicide, causation has not yet been established. Alas, this has not deterred politicians, pundits, and now, prosecutors, who are all too willing to jump to conclusions.

The propensity of prosecutors to jump to conclusions before all the evidence is in is very destructiveand nothing new. State and local prosecutors sought to blame the makers of prescription pain pills, pharmacies, and doctors for causing the overdose crisis, even though there is no correlation between prescription volume and nonmedical use or addiction to prescription pain pills. They embraced the narrative that overprescribing pain medications generated the current population seeking opioids in the black market and overdosing on fentanyl, despite government data showing the percentage of adults aged 18 and above addicted to prescription pain pills has been stable and never greater than 0.7 percent since the National Survey on Drug Use and Health began in 2002.

Prosecutors singled out Purdue Pharma, the makers of OxyContin, as the worst offender. The Food and Drug Administration approved OxyContin, a concentrated formulation of oxycodone designed to extend its pain-relieving effect, in 1996. A recent study published in the Yale Law and Policy Review found that "only 9.0% of all nonmedical opioid users in 2001 reported ever using OxyContin during their lifetime." The U.S. Supreme Court announced it will review a bankruptcy settlement between prosecutors and Purdue Pharma.

Meanwhile, as opioid prescribing plummets while pain patients suffer, the opioid overdose rate, mainly from illicit fentanyl, continues to climb.

A lack of scientific evidence didn't stop ambitious AGs from squeezing drug makers and pharmacies, allowing them to fill state coffers while harming patients and accelerating the overdose rate. That same ambition might also explain why prosecutors don't want to wait for conclusive evidence about social media addiction. Social media users should worry about what collateral damage to digital communication and innovation the prosecutors leave in their wake.

The post Prosecutors Turn Their Extortion Racket Against Facebook and Instagram appeared first on Reason.com.
Federal prosecutors late Wednesday urged a judge to lift her initial stay of a gag order limiting President Trumps speech, arguing he threatens to upend their election interference case with remarks likely to inspire harassment of those involved in it.

Their brief walks through a series of remarks Trump has made since the gag order was put on ice last Friday, including remarks they say were designed to influence the testimony of his former chief of staff.

The timing of the debate over the gag order before Judge Tanya Chutkan is colliding with a civil fraud trial Trump is facing in New York, where a state judge issued his second fine to the former president after he again made comments about a court clerk.

In the few days since the administrative stay has been in place, the defendant has returned to the very sort of targeting that the Order prohibits, including attempting to intimidate and influence foreseeable witnesses, and commenting on the substance of their testimony, prosecutors wrote.

There has never been a criminal case in which a court has granted a defendant an unfettered right to try his case in the media, malign the presiding judge as a fraud and a hack, attack the prosecutor as deranged and a thug, and, after promising witnesses and others, IF YOU GO AFTER ME, IM COMING AFTER YOU, target specific witnesses with attacks on their character and credibility, even suggesting that one witnesss actions warrant the punishment of DEATH!

The order from Chutkan bars Trump from language that would target witnesses in the case, as well as prosecutors and court staff  a decision Chutkan said was necessary to prevent a wave of threats and harassment of those involved in the case and protect the fair administration of justice in the high-stakes trial.

The governments 32-page response is a window into how prosecutors will fight Trumps challenge of the order as it heads to appeals court. While Chutkan has temporarily stayed her order pending consideration of the issue in a higher court, prosecutors argue the gag order must remain in place while examination of her order proceeds.

The filing also goes beyond defense of a gag order and asks Chutkan to modify Trumps conditions of release to make explicit that his existing prohibition on communication with witnesses includes indirect messages to witnesses made publicly on social media or in speeches.

That request comes after Trump turned to social media to dispute an article from ABC News that his former chief of staff Mark Meadows had testified under an immunity deal, with the former president writing that those who would do so are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future [of] our Failing Nation.

Prosecutors hammered back against arguments from Trumps legal team that the order is a violation of his First Amendment rights that would hamper his electoral prospects.

The Order leaves the defendant entirely free to assert his innocence, claim that his prosecution is politically motivated, criticize the platforms and policies of his political opponents, and level all manner of criticism at various institutions and individuals, including the incumbent president and the Department of Justice, they wrote

But, like every other criminal defendant, what the defendant may not do is publicly target certain trial participants in order to vilify and implicitly encourage violence against public servants or to launch a pretrial smear campaign against  foreseeable witnesses, they added.

It also zeroes in on Chutkans use of the word target  language Trumps team pointed to amid broader argument that the order was too vague.

The Order is sufficiently clear and does not suffer from vagueness problems. The Order limits the defendants ability to target certain trial participantsthat is, to single them out as the object of general abuse, scorn, derision or the like, prosecutors wrote, noting reliance on the dictionary definition of the word.

It limits only the sort of fact-free, disparaging, inflammatory, ad hominem attacks that, as the defendant knows, tend to provoke harassment, threats, and intimidation from his followers.

Prosecutors also pointed to Trumps conduct in New York, where a judge fined him $5,000 for not removing content from his campaign site attacking a court staffer and then on Wednesday fined him another $10,000 after Trump again appeared to post about the clerk. Prosecutors noted the decision came after the defendant claimed unconvincingly under oath that he had not been commenting on the courts clerk, [and] the judge found the defendant not to be credible.

The government also urged Chutkan to reject the approach pushed by Trumps team to address any problematic remarks from Trump after the fact.

Prosecutors noted that while some high-profile witnesses might be granted protection from the court, the defendants threats have never been limited to such figures and have always included people like election workers and court personnel who have little ability to avail themselves of similar protections.

They also argued that taking action after a comment comes too late.

The First Amendment does not require such an ineffectual approach to protecting the integrity and fairness of the trial, they wrote.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Some Jewish students at Emory University said they dont feel safe after a group chanted antisemitic slogans during a demonstration Wednesday.

Channel 2s Berndt Petersen was at the university Thursday, where Emorys president has denounced what happened.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

About three dozen people organized by the campus chapter of the Stop Cop City movement gathered Wednesday afternoon. The group is opposed to the construction of the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center.

The group was protesting the universitys financial ties to the training center and also demanding the university condemn the deaths of Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas war.

Some involved in the protest shouted chants and slogans that university officials said were antisemitic, including a chant that has been adopted by Hamas, which the U.S. labels a terrorist organization.

TRENDING STORIES:

University President Gregory Fenves issued a statement, writing:

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Throughout the event, antisemitic phrases and slogans were repeatedly used by speakers and chanted by the crowd, Fenves wrote. I cannot be more clear  this kind of rhetoric has no place at Emory. I am appalled by this behavior. It violates our core values, particularly our commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all who learn, work, and live on our campuses.

Fenves said that the terrorist atrocities and ensuing war in Israel and Gaza have horrified us all.

Now, some Jewish students on campus said they dont feel safe.

Morgan Ames is the president of the Emory Eagles for Israel. She said that in her four years at the school, shes never seen anything like the protest happen. Now, shes worried it could happen again.

I was at home, because I didnt feel safe on campus with everything going on, Ames said. I appreciate President Fenves immediate response. I think everything he said was absolutely true. I think, unfortunately, there are students who dont care.

Jewish leaders in Atlanta are calling on all Georgia colleges and universities to take steps to ensure the safety of Jewish students.




A purple alert was issued Wednesday for a missing Dunnellon man.

Matthew Davis, 29, was last seen along Southwest Lombardy Lane in Dunnellon, according to the alert issued by the FDLE's Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse.

He was wearing a dark-colored T-shirt, khaki short and a dark hat.

He may be traveling in a 2012 gray Toyota Highland with the Florida tag of KUGX06.

Purple alert issued Oct. 25, 2023, for Matthew Davis of Dunnellon.

Anyone with information about Davis' whereabouts should call FDLE at 1-888-FL MISSING (1-888-356-4774) or the Marion County Sheriff's Office at 352-732-9111.

The Florida Purple Alert is used to assist in the location of missing adults suffering from a mental or cognitive disability that is not Alzheimer's disease or a dementia-related disorder.

Their disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or seriously bodily harm.

Purple Alerts engage the public in the search for the missing person and provide a standardized and coordinated community response.

Purple Alerts active in Florida

Current purple alerts in Florida as of Oct. 26, 2023.

For more details on each of the active Purple Alerts.

Sign up to receive Purple Alerts via email

Sign up to receive Florida Purple Alerts directly in your email. You can be notified as soon as an alert is issued to help with the safe recovery of a missing adult.

The alert flyer will be sent directly to your home computer, smart phone or other email capable device.

When did Floridas Purple Alert Program begin?

Floridas Purple Alert Plan was established by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Ron DeSantis on July 1, 2021, with an effective date of July 1, 2022.

Criteria for a Purple Alert to be issued

The person is 18 years of age or older and does not qualify for a state level Silver Alert.

An investigation has determined the missing person: Has any combination of the following: an intellectual or developmental disability, brain injury; or another physical, mental, or emotional disability that is not related to substance abuse and Does not have Alzheimers disease or a dementia related disorder.

Has your law-enforcement agencys investigation concluded the disappearance poses a credible threat of immediate danger or serious bodily harm to the missing person and they can only be returned to safety through law-enforcement intervention?

Is there a detailed description of the missing person suitable for distribution?

Has your agency entered the missing person into the Florida Crime Information Center?

Does the law-enforcement agency of jurisdiction recommend activation?

How does a Purple Alert get activated?

If you have a loved one missing you should contact your local law-enforcement agency immediately. The law-enforcement agency will take a report and determine if a Purple Alert is appropriate.

If the agency determines that the case meets the criteria for a Purple Alert, they will contact the FDLE Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse. Only law enforcement can request a Purple Alert.

How can you file a missing person report?

Contact the local law-enforcement agency of jurisdiction where the missing person was last seen.

This article originally appeared on Treasure Coast Newspapers: Florida Purple Alert. What's it mean, things to know
Russias recent nuclear strike simulations are only a performance, not a credible threat, stated Andriy Yusov , a spokesperson for Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR), on national television on Oct. 26.

We shouldnt take this especially seriously, he explained.

This is not meant for the Ukrainian audience. No groundbreaking developments have been witnessed, demonstrated, or achieved.

On Oct. 25, the Kremlin announced that dictator Vladimir Putin had conducted a training exercise for nuclear deterrence forces, rehearsing tasks of a mass nuclear strike in response to an enemys nuclear attack.

Read also: Russia will likely intensify nuclear threats in coming months  Zelenskyy

According to Russian sources, an intercontinental Yars missile was launched from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome to a testing range in Kamchatka, and from the waters of the Barents Sea, the nuclear-powered submarine Tula launched a Sineva missile.

Yusov asserted that this display is propaganda designed for the domestic audience, showcasing the image of a leader who is fully in control and personally overseeing critical operations, alongside Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu and the entire team.

He added that the Kremlins actions are an illustration for proponents of the rhetoric that we dont need to escalate the situation, which aims to pacify Russia.

Read also: Russian attack did not impact Khmelnytskyi NPPs operation  IAEA

This demonstrates our point, he added.

On a global scale, nothing has changed. Nuclear blackmail is no longer the trump card up Putins sleeve, but the attempts will persist.

On Oct. 17, Russia declared its withdrawal of its ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, and accused the United States of irresponsible behavior toward global security, though didnt comment on Russias own escalatory rhetoric and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine.

Read also: Russia to withdraw from Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe

Ukrainian intelligence reports suggest that Russia intensified its checks and preparations of nuclear weapons starting in the summer of 2023, but believes it is premature to discuss a real threat of their use.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
An albino golden child reticulated python captured in an Oklahoma City mobile home park in October 2023.

An albino python terrorizing an Oklahoma City community for months has finally been captured. It turns out the serpent wasn't quite as big and scary as initially thought.

The pet python had been on the loose near the Burntwood mobile home community for about six months, with one animal expert estimating it to be 13 feet long. With an elementary school nearby, residents were voicing concerns over safety and reporting missing cats in the area, theorizing that the snake was to blame.

A homeowner in the mobile home park found the snake on Wednesday morning and then property management called Oklahoma Exotics Rescue & Sanctuary for help, the organization posted on Facebook.

The python was actually about 8 feet long, sanctuary co-owner Michael Wilkins told USA TODAY on Thursday.

And contrary to resident fears and the suspicions of an animal expert hired to find the snake, it doesn't appear that it has been eating any area cats, or much of anything for that matter, said Wilkins, who also owns Snakes Alive Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary.

"This guy hasn't eaten anything," he said.

Scary: A 13-foot albino python is terrorizing an Oklahoma City community

Previous reports about the snake were incorrect, snake expert says

Michael Wilkins, owner of Snakes Alive Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary and co-owner of Oklahoma Exotics Rescue & Sanctuary, holds an albino golden child reticulated python. The python spent months at an Oklahoma City mobile home park until it was captured in October 2023.

Property management initially hired Trevor Bounds of Red Beard Wildlife Solutions to inspect some homes and get more information on the snake.

Residents showed him photos from months ago and in the photos, the snake appeared to be much smaller, he told USA TODAY in early October.

People in the neighborhood told him cats began disappearing in the area around the time the snake was spotted, he said.

But the snake is not the cat-eating monster that he was made out to be, Wilkins told USA TODAY.

Wilkins said the python hasn't eaten anything since it got out and that snakes can go months between feedings as long as they have access to water.

Previous efforts to capture the python

Michael Wilkins, owner of Snakes Alive Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary and co-owner of Oklahoma Exotics Rescue & Sanctuary, holds an albino golden child reticulated python. The python spent months at an Oklahoma City mobile home park until it was captured in October 2023.

Bounds had been hired to find the snake, which had made a home for itself underneath one mobile home in particular.

The home had a leaky pipe problem, and water from the leaky pipes paired with the crawlspace underneath the home made it a perfect habitat for the creature, he said.

"It's got food, water, shelter," Bounds said in early October.

Bounds had planned to set up a funnel-style trap around the home to catch the snake, as well install a 24-hour live feed to keep an eye on it once repairs were made to the home.

'Skeptic' owners uneasy: See the 'ghost' caught on video at a historic New England hotel

How was the snake captured?

An albino golden child reticulated python. The snake made its way into an Oklahoma City mobile home park and sightings were reported for months before it was captured in October 2023.

One resident told KFOR-TV that the snake was found under the same home where it was believed to be living.

A neighbor left their home around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning and grabbed the snake, the outlet reported. They then put the snake in a hamper, sealed it with duct tape, and left it in front of their home until wildlife officials could respond.

Wilkins told the outlet that the snake likely wouldnt have lasted past this weekend because temperatures are getting colder.

He also said the snake was raised in captivity, so it isnt as dangerous as those raised in the wild. However, the snakes ability to constrict prey is so strong that it could have posed a threat, he said.

He plans to give the snake antibiotics and rehabilitation time, and said that snake that had everyone living in fear was also in danger himself.

Wilkins said anyone who cant take care of their exotic pets can reach Oklahoma Exotics Rescue and Sanctuary at 405-915-5356 or okexotics@oklahomarescue.com.

An albino golden child reticulated python that was reported in an Oklahoma City mobile home park during summer 2023. The snake was captured months later in October.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Albino python scaring Oklahoma City community is captured


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1970-present

Latest News: Queen Rania Accuses Western Leaders of Glaring Double Standard in Israel-Hamas Conflict

Queen Rania of Jordan, whose parents are Palestinian, criticized Western leaders for failing to condemn the deaths of civilians in Gaza during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. In an interview with CNN reporter Christiane Amanpour, Rania said world leaders have shown a glaring double standard regarding Israels response to the October 7 attacks by Hamas that killed more than 1,400 people, according to estimates. Israel subsequently declared a siege of Gaza, and the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza estimates more than 5,000 peopleincluding more than 2,000 childrenhave died from Israeli strikes.

This is the first time in modern history that there is such human suffering, and the world is not even calling for a ceasefire. So the silence is deafeningand to many in our region, it makes the Western world complicit, the queen said. As a mom, weve seen Palestinian mothers who have to write the names of their children on their handsbecause the chances of them being shelled to death, of their bodies turning into corpses are so high.

[table-of-contents] stripped

Who Is Queen Rania?

Born in Kuwait and forced to flee during the first Gulf War in 1991, Queen Ranias early life was much like that of thousands of other Palestinians. In 1993, she met Prince Abdullah II bin al-Hussein of Jordan at a party, and the two were married six months later. Rania is a strong progressive female voice in the Arab world and a powerful global advocate for education, health, and womens rights.

Quick Facts

FULL NAME: Rania al-Abdullah

BORN: August 31, 1970

BIRTHPLACE: Kuwait City, Kuwait

SPOUSE: King Abdullah II (1993-present)

CHILDREN: Hussein, Iman, Salma, and Hashem

ASTROLOGICAL SIGN: Virgo

Early Life

Born Rania Al Yassin on August 31, 1970, in Kuwait City to Palestinian parents, Rania and her two siblings were raised in the West Bank town of Tulkarm, where her father was a physician. She was educated at the New English School in Kuwait City before enrolling at the American University in Cairo. She received a degree in business administration in 1991.

During the first Gulf War of 1991, Ranias family was forced to flee from Kuwait along with thousands of other Palestinian families. They resettled in Amman, Jordan, where Rania joined them after completing her university studies. After a brief stint working in marketing at Citibank, Rania accepted another marketing job at Apples office in Amman.

Wedding to Prince Abdullah II

Getty Images

In January 1993, Rania accompanied an Apple coworker to a dinner party being thrown by the sister of Prince Abdullah II bin al-Hussein of Jordan, who was also at the party. In an unlikely plot twist that sounded like something out of a movie, the common-born young woman and the prince fell instantly and deeply in love. Rania and Prince Abdullah were engaged just two months after their meeting. Then, in June 1993, less than six months after their first encounter, the couple married.

Becoming Queen of Jordan

Prince Abdullah never expected to ascend to the throne, as his uncle had long been slated to become king of Jordan upon the death of King Hussein bin Talal, who had ruled the country since 1952. However, from his deathbed in 1999, King Hussein unexpectedly named his son, Prince Abdullah, as his successor. When Hussein died on February 7, 1999, Abdullah became king of Jordan.

Six weeks later, King Abdullah officially elevated his then 28-year-old wife to the status of queen. Announcing her coronation over state television, King Abdullah declared that his wifes non-royal origins made her better connected to the hopes and outlooks of people because she truly believes in their causes.

Children

Getty Images

Queen Rania and King Abdullah have four children: Crown Prince Hussein, born June 28, 1994; Princess Iman, born September 27, 1996; Princess Salma, born September 26, 2000; and Prince Hashem, born January 30, 2005.

Crown Prince Hussein was appointed heir to the throne in July 2009 and married Rajwa Al Hussein in June 2023.

Advocacy Work

Ranias youth, royal status, and glamorous beauty instantly has made her something of an international icon. The queen has been photographed at fashion shows and high-society social events, usually mingling with a beautiful coterie of the global elite. Through it all, however, Queen Rania remained remarkably grounded, using her position to advocate for a variety of causes she believes to be important.

A progressive female voice in the Arab world, Queen Rania has become a powerful advocate for reform in education and public health, the development of a sustainable tourism industry in Jordan, youth empowerment, and crosscultural dialogue between the West and the Arab world. Perhaps most notably, she has been an outspoken opponent of the traditional practice of honor killings, the murder of women by members of their own family for perceived violations of Islamic moral code.

Ranias Global Platform

Queen Rania eventually turned to technology to advocate for her causes and to help dispel Western stereotypes about the supposed backwardness of the Middle East. In March 2008, she created her own YouTube channel aimed at engaging Western viewers in a discussion about their perceptions of the Arab world. Her first video post was viewed some 1.4 million times within days of its release. Queen Rania also has a Facebook page, an active Instagram account, her own website, and around 10 million followers on X, formerly known as Twitter, where she describes herself as a mum and a wife with a really cool day job.

For Queen Rania, part of that job involves sharing her own expertise to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and an understanding of technology, particularly among Jordanian youth. Working with the Jordanian Ministry of Education, she has established numerous initiatives to achieve these goals in the country, while also taking a wider approach to advocate for education for young people around the world. Among these international endeavors are 1GOAL, the Global Campaign for Education, and the United Nations Girls Education Initiative, for which she serves as the honorary chair. She has also worked with the UN on its sustainable development goals and with UNICEF in its efforts to provide aid to the children of the world.

Yet despite these achievements and lofty goals, she has remained characteristically humble: I just wake up and feel like a regular person, Queen Rania writes on her site. At the end of the day you are living your life for the people that you represent. Its an honour and a privilege to have that chance to make a differencea qualitative difference in peoples livesand its my responsibility to make the most out of that opportunity.

Awards, Honors, and Books

Queen Rania has received numerous honorary degrees and humanitarian awards for her work, including an honorary doctorate in Science Development and International Cooperation from Sapienza University, Italy; the James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award; and the YouTube Visionary Award, to name just a few. In 2010, she was named Glamour magazines Woman of the Year and, in 2011, the most beautiful first lady by Harpers Bazaar.

Getty Images

Queen Rania has also published a number of childrens books inspired by her own experiences as a child, including the New York Times best seller The Sandwich Swap, Eternal Beauty, Maha of the Mountains, and The Kings Gift.



Queen Rania Net Worth

Queen Ranias net worth is estimated around $35 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.

Fact Check: We strive for accuracy and fairness. If you see something that doesnt look right, contact us!

You Might Also Like
The Andrew Jackson monument at the county courthouse in downtown Kansas City has been at the center of a citywide reckoning about history and representation for years. Concerns about permanently keeping the statue in its place have continued to arise, and we find ourselves at a crossroads with two choices: Commit to a resolution for this contested monument, or continue a cycle of indecision that wastes time and resources.

For four years, city officials and engaged community groups have been debating the presence of this statue  which to some represents the glorification of slavery and the forced displacement of Indigenous people  in a space where people come to seek justice.

In 2020, a countywide ballot initiative asked voters to weigh in on the fate of this statue and a similar one that sits in Independence. A majority of voters chose to leave the sculptures in place, yet the debate has continued.

In June, Jackson County legislators voted 7-1 to remove both Jackson statues and even determined removal costs to clear a path ahead. Many saw this as bringing much-needed finality to the issue, until we learned a few weeks later that legislators will put this on the countywide ballot again in 2024. It feels like were back where we started, when we need to move forward.

Kansas City is not unique in its effort to confront problematic symbols in public spaces. Many cities have appointed commissions to review and reconcile contested monuments, including the Chicago Monuments Project, the Monument Avenue Commission in Richmond, Virginia, and the New York City Commission on City Art, Monuments and Markers. Kansas City could benefit from such a commission.

Meanwhile, community groups have led these conversations, questioning whether things commemorated in the past reflect current values. In 2020 the name of discriminatory real estate developer J.C. Nichols was removed from the fountain in Mill Creek Park. A confederate monument on Ward Parkway was dismantled in 2017. And soon, Troost Avenue may become Truth Avenue.

Open dialogue and dissenting views are healthy parts of a strong democracy. Each new generation establishes values for itself and challenges symbols of the past that may no longer represent us. We also understand that what we do now creates a road map for the future. We cant afford indecisiveness.

In the place where the monument to Jackson stands today in Kansas City  facing City Hall, a space of centralized power greeting hundreds of visitors daily  are there other stories we could include that tell a fuller, more inclusive history of the people who built this city?

Take for instance, the story of the Conley sisters of the Wyandot tribe, who built a defense fort in the Wyandot National Burying Ground in the early 1900s, succeeding in saving it from developers. Their legal case went all the way to the Supreme Court and influenced future legal arguments in preservation and tribal sovereignty laws. The Wyandot Nation of Kansas is collaborating on a new monument. Consider the powerful story of Black women suffragists in the Kansas City area who organized to successfully gain voting rights for women. The Black Archives of Mid-America has launched an effort  powered by an all-volunteer committee  to ensure their story is widely known. These projects are deserving of public resources and support, and just two examples of many vibrant stories we could commemorate in our shared urban spaces.

Public spaces are just that: open and accessible to all, with the potential to shift and respond to new information and identities. Rarely does one persons story or one dominant history represent the collective actions and experiences we can all tap into. We must reconcile the fate of Andrew Jacksons statue, and shift our energies toward igniting civic imagination. Public spaces can evolve to represent us all.

Neysa Page-Lieberman is a contemporary art curator and co-founder of Monuments to Movements , a project that creates commemorative public artwork about collective action. She is launching a series of essays, Kansas Citys Removal Act: The Reckoning of Andrew Jackson Monuments.






Rachel Zegler's daring gown for the Time100 Next event represented the 'beautiful facets' of her personality, according to her stylist

Rachel Zegler attended the Time100 Next event in New York City on Tuesday.

She walked the red carpet in a semi-sheer Dior gown, which was styled by Sarah Slutsky Tooley.

Tooley told Insider the dress represented the "beautiful facets" of the actor's personality.

There were layers to Rachel Zegler's latest red-carpet look.

On Tuesday, the "Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" actor attended the Time100 Next event in New York City, where she was honored as one of this year's featured artists.

While there, she posed in an off-white, semi-sheer dress designed by Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior. The sleeveless gown had a plunging neckline, delicate sheer panels, thick white stripes from top to bottom, and a floor-length skirt that flowed with her movement.

In an email sent to Insider, Zegler's stylist Sarah Slutsky Tooley described the dress as a "perfect representation" of a "multi-faceted woman."

"I am so inspired and impressed by Rachel. She is all the good things," Tooley said. "Kind, compassionate, thoughtful, hard-working, intelligent. She is strong  I am always amazed by all she manages to do  but also so loving. Time100 is a serious achievement and it seemed the look should reflect all these beautiful facets of her personality."

Rachel Zegler in Dior on the Time100 Next red carpet. Gotham/Getty Images

Tooley said the sheer panels, in particular, "reflect the inner self," and they allowed "Rachel's beauty to shine through."

Rachel Zegler attends the Time100 Next event in New York City. Gotham/Getty Images

Tooley noted that she and Zegler  who will star in the upcoming "Snow White" film adaptation  had their eyes on this specific gown "for a long time."

"We're always sharing looks we love on the runway, and this gown was no exception," she said. "When we had it in the studio for her to put on, we just knew it was super special."

The rest of Zegler's ensemble included strappy Jimmy Choo sandals, a sleek wavy hairstyle done by David von Cannon, a smokey makeup look created by Kale Teter, and jewels by Chopard.

"Keeping the look cool and youthful ensured that it's timeless and edgy in addition to glamorous," Tooley said. "I wanted to use jewelry in an unexpected way that would point to Rachel's forward thinking and innovation. Layering Chopard rings and using a bracelet as an armband really helped achieve this idea."

Chopard jewels worn by Rachel Zegler and styled by Sarah Slutsky Tooley. Taylor Hill/Getty Images

That glamour Tooley mentioned is something the stylist believes can't be achieved by a garment alone.

It's "something that comes from within," she said.

"Glamour arrives from the presentation of self  the way you carry yourself and interact with others," Tooley told Insider. "For those reasons, this look was so glamorous. Rachel embodies all these components and carries herself so beautifully on the carpet."

Read the original article on Insider
Lava Cake

Mars' interior is harboring a huge secret.

New analyses of seismic data from NASA's InSight lander reveal that concealed beneath the Red Planet's surface is a vast radioactive ocean of magma reaching up to 125 miles in depth  a layer totally unlike anything found in our own planet.

"It does not exist on Earth," Amir Khan, lead author of one of the analyses and a geophysicist at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, told The New York Times.

The discovery of this magma sea, as detailed in a pair of independent studies published in the journal Nature, could explain why previous calculations estimated that Mars' core was unusually large and lower in density, a puzzling and hotly debated conclusion that didn't have some scientists convinced.

However, new evidence suggests that its core may be small and dense like our own world's, and that the magma layer was obfuscating its actual size. Even better, these findings call into question the history of Mars' evolution, and possibly of other terrestrial worlds.

Deeper Insight

Scientists have relied on InSight to detect seismic tremors on Mars since 2018. But for years, none of these so-called "marsquakes" penetrated deep enough to reveal anything about the planet's core.

With the data that was available, scientists estimated that the core was around 1,150 miles in radius, suggesting it was not dense enough to be a homogeneous ball of liquid iron. Instead, there had to be a greater share of lighter elements like carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen in the mix, too.

This conclusion didn't sit right with some scientists. Those lightweight elements should have been vaporized ages ago by either the heat of the extensive magma layer or the Sun.

But in August and September of 2021, two huge tremors, one caused by a large meteorite impact, shot powerful vibrations straight into the center of the planet.

These massive shocks were just what the researchers needed to illuminate Mars' murky interior. Feeding that seismic data into advanced computer simulations revealed that the core's radius was a tighter and much more reasonable 1,050 miles  suggesting that it is, in fact, almost pure liquid iron.

"This means that the average density of the Martian core is still somewhat low, but no longer inexplicable in the context of typical planet formation scenarios," said Paolo Sossi, co-author of one of the studies and a planetologist at ETH Zurich, in a statement about the work.

Too Cool

But where one mystery is solved, another one rears its head.

Mars, now barren and exposed, once had a protective magnetic field around four billion years ago. Scientists believed that, like with Earth and other terrestrial worlds, the gradual cooling of its core caused the rest of the liquid iron to swirl, generating a magnetic field.

Yet, if the magma sea was present, it would have been too warm for the core to cool. In other words, something else was responsible for Mars' magnetic field  and as of right now, scientists still don't know what allowed it to exist.

More on Mars: Scientists Puzzled by Sudden, Super-Loud Rumble Inside Mars
by Sun Nan, Naim-Ul-Karim

CHATTOGRAM, Bangladesh, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Hundreds of people are busy with the final stages of completion and getting ready for the grand opening of a mega Chinese-built underwater tunnel leading to Bangladesh's largest Chattogram seaport.

The much-awaited Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, the first under-river tunnel in South Asia, some 242 km southeast of the capital Dhaka, is awaiting inauguration by Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday.

The tunnel, which implemented with joint funding from the governments of Bangladesh and China, and constructed by China Communications Construction Company Ltd. (CCCC), is 3.4 km with an approach road of 5.35 km alongside a 727-meter bridge linking the main city, port and the western side of the river with its eastern side.

Yu Jingtao, the project manager, said the tunnel is totally built with Chinese design, technology and standards.

The Chinese company designed and manufactured a tunnel boring machine with a diameter of 12 meters, which solved problems faced by underwater tunneling with the complicated geology of the Bay of Bengal, he said.

Although there were lots of difficulties, the Chinese side still completed this work with high quality and efficiency, Yu said, adding that during the construction, they compiled a technical guide for the project, which covers Chinese standards, including those for roads, bridges and tunnels, to help develop and improve Bangladeshi related industry.

"The tunneling technology applied here is for the first time in Bangladesh," Bangladeshi engineer Shaheduzzaman said, adding that as an engineer, this tunnel presented a remarkable opportunity for him to learn about something.

"After a five-year journey with CCCC, now I'm more confident, skilled, professional and passionate. This project has genuinely transformed my life for the better. It's not just about career advancement, but about personal growth, learning and the immense satisfaction that comes from contributing to something for the development of our country," he said.

The project has created more than 5,000 jobs so far, trained local people on infrastructure construction skills and promoted local economic development.

Md Nurul Azim Sikder, associate professor at the Institute of Marine Science of University of Chattogram, said Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel is also the first ever under-river tunnel in Bangladesh for route communication in South Asia.

"Belt and Road Initiative and this tunnel will play a great role in improving Bangladesh's economy," the professor said, noting that it will connect Chattogram with Cox's Bazar and Matarbari deep-sea port through an alternative route.

Md Jasim Uddin Talukder, a local businessman, said the project will be a huge gate to open in tourism, especially in the southern region, since those who come from Dhaka or outside Chattogram will arrive at the very fastest time.

At the same time, work has begun to make economic zones in the southern region focusing on this tunnel, and it will play a huge role in the economic field, he said.

The tunnel will connect the proposed Asian Highway to Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox's Bazar Highway, and will reduce the distance from Chattogram to the southeastern seabeach town Cox's Bazar by 40 km.

Bangladeshi Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said it is a "monumental achievement" to usher in a new era of communication within the South Asian country, marking a source of immense national pride.

The inauguration of this remarkable project will herald Bangladesh's entry into the era of underwater tunnels, the minister said. 
The Maya Biosphere Reserve saw deforestation rise from 20 percent of its total area in 2000 to 33 percent in 2022 (Johan ORDONEZ)

Ripping up clumps of pasture with the aid of a machete, Leon Acosta is doing his part to reclaim forest area invaded by illegal cattle farmers and others in the heart of Guatemala's protected Maya Biosphere Reserve.

Hacking away in the blazing sun, Acosta is tired, but hopeful.

"Pasture is our biggest challenge," the 35-year-old forest resident told AFP, speaking about the park which covers a fifth of Guatemala and is the largest of its kind in Central America at 2.1 million hectares (5.2 million acres).

Acosta said there was "a sea of pasture" when he joined a community project last year seeking to halt and reverse deforestation while also providing a living for the reserve's 200,000 mainly Indigenous inhabitants.

"We are recovering hectares... of native trees, of cedars here from the forest itself," he said proudly in La Colorada, a 22,067-hectare section of the reserve.

Some 600 hectares of La Colorada remains under illegal pasture, said Acosta.

He is taking part in a trial collaboration between the Selva Maya del Norte group of forest communities, the Guatemalan government and the New York-based Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

The Maya Biosphere Reserve, near the borders with Mexico and Belize, saw deforestation rise from 20 percent of its total area in 2000 to 33 percent in 2022 due to illegal logging, fires for land clearing and the planting of pasture for livestock.

It plays host to a variety of wildlife, lagoons and streams that feed entire ecosystems and makes a vital contribution to sucking up planet-warming carbon dioxide.

The reserve also holds, at its very center, the Mayan city of Tikal, which reached its peak between 200 and 900 AD and is today Guatemala's main archaeological landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

- Satellites vs invaders -

In 2001, the community of La Colorado received a three-decade concession from the government to engage in sustainable production in the biosphere reserve.

Acosta and others work to destroy pasture and plant new trees to renew the forest.

With training and support from the WCS, they also produce honey and some crops for subsistence and sale, plant sustainable trees for small-scale timber harvesting, and dabble in eco-tourism.

But the project has run into problems.

Some of the land in La Colorada fell into the hands of usurpers -- including strangers allied to drug gangs that use it to launder money with livestock farming or even to land and launch drug planes, community members told AFP on condition of anonymity.

It is a tug of war between the government and environmentalists on one hand, and land grabbers on the other.

Guatemalan authorities use satellites to locate illegal cattle farms.

But the wheels of bureaucracy and justice turn slowly and it can take years for invaders to be evicted, said Apolinario Cordova, regional director of the government's National Council of Protected Areas (CONAP).

We need "to strengthen the inter-institutional (security) presence," he told AFP.

There are soldiers and police at the gates to the reserve, but the invasions continue amid porous borders around the enormous expanse of land.

- 'Giving life' -

Despite the setbacks, more than 157,000 hectares of land have been reclaimed in the reserve in the past 10 years, of which nearly a third has been reforested, according to the WCS.

In Cruce a La Colorada, another section of the reserve, locals opted for an agroforestry model: growing maize, beans, sweet potatoes and cassava among newly planted trees for timber.

Given that the trees will take 10-20 years to mature, "our children will be the generation to benefit" from them, resident Antonio Juarez, 38 told AFP.

But for some of the reserve's impoverished communities, it is difficult to have such a long-term view.

In San Miguel, another area where locals are trying their hand at beekeeping, 25-year-old Melsar Cardona says honey is not enough to stake a future on.

Like many other Guatemalans, he is considering migrating to the United States.

Slowly but surely, birdsong is again becoming the dominant sound in the forest, replacing that of chainsaws and cattle.

Even jaguars are making a comeback, as revealed by hidden cameras.

These creatures all help disperse seeds that also contributes to forest restoration, said Acosta.

"With every tree we plant... we feel we are giving life to the whole world," WCS reforestation coordinator Cesar Paz told AFP.

Added Juarez: "We know that the forest is life for us."

apg/mis/lbc/mlr/bfm
MILWAUKEE - The American Red Cross urges blood and platelet donors to make and keep donation appointments now to help hospitals restock blood products for patients ahead of the holiday season.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially type O blood donors and those giving platelets to help recover from a significant shortfall in donations throughout late summer and fall.

Patients are counting on lifesaving care now and all season long.Those ready to help can schedule an appointment now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

As a thank-you, and to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the film Elf and create holiday cheer, all who come to give Nov. 10-30 will receive an exclusive pair of Elf + Red Cross socks, while supplies last. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Elf for details.

How to donate blood

A blood donor card or drivers license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Amplify your impact  volunteer!

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position, contact or redcross.org/local/wisconsin/volunteer.
ST. JOHNS  A man charged with killing a hunter in Bath Township nearly five years ago has been released on a personal bond after a judge adjourned his trial for three months.

Court records indicate 29th Circuit Judge Shannon Schlegel on Wednesday granted a $500,000 personal bond for Thomas Olson, 35, of Grand Blanc Township, on condition he wear a GPS tether and have no contact with the family of Chong Mua Yang or Olson's former co-defendant, Robert Rodway.

Yang was fatally shot while hunting at the Rose Lake State Wildlife Area in November 2018. Olson and Rodway were charged in connection with his death in December 2022, but both have denied any involvement.

Olson's release comes a month after the state Attorney General's Office dismissed a murder charge against Rodway, citing unresolved evidentiary issues, one day before Rodway was set to go on trial.

The dismissal came after Rodway's attorney, Matt Newburg, filed an emergency bond motion citing newly discovered evidence that he said could exonerate Rodway and Olson. The new evidence suggested police wrongly ruled out another local man as a suspect in Yang's death, he said.

Olson's trial was scheduled to begin Nov. 15. His new trial date is Feb. 13.

Schlegel agreed to release him on a personal bond after the AG's office did not object, court records indicate.

The judge this week also granted the AG's request that statements made by Rodway in text conversations with Olson be admitted in the trial. Prosecutors contend the messages are incriminating and show consciousness of guilt. Defense attorneys said messages referring to the death investigation were attempts at dark humor.

Schlegel this week denied a defense motion that jurors be allowed to visit the area where Yang was killed so they can properly evaluate the prosecution's theory that Olson would have been able to get to the murder scene from his GPS data-indicated positions in time to do the shooting.

In a court filing, an attorney for Olson described those assertions as "farcical."

The judge ordered that prosecutors and defense attorneys "cooperatively" go to the scene and make a report about what they find.

The judge set aside eight days in February for the trial, which could include testimony by dozens of witnesses and involve technical and scientific evidence.

Contact Ken Palmer at kpalmer@lsj.com. Follow him on Twitter @KBPalm_lsj.

This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Remaining defendant in 2018 hunter death released on bond after trial delayed
There will be events held across the island from Thursday

A number of ceremonies and commemorations have been announced to mark Armistice Day and Remembrance Day in Guernsey this year.

The events will be held in the build up to 11 November, when fighting was suspended on the Western Front in 1918, so Germany and the Allies could reach a peace agreement.

The flag was raised on Thursday at the German War Memorial at Fort George.

And people were able to place poppy crosses in the field at the Smith Street War Memorial.

On 11 November, two separate ceremonies will take place at the Fort George Cemetery starting just before 11:00 GMT.

The first will take place at the 1918 war memorial and the Lieutenant Governor, the Bailiff, the President of The Royal British Legion Guernsey and a representative of the German military party will all lay wreaths.

This will be followed by another similar ceremony at the German memorial at the bottom of the cemetery.

The annual Remembrance Day Parade and service will take place on 12 November.

There will be a short service and wreath laying at the Smith Street War Memorial.

Follow BBC Guernsey on Twitter and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.
U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman of New York is facing a misdemeanor charge for pulling a fire alarm in a Capitol office building last month during negotiations to avoid a government shutdown that led to a delayed vote.

Bowman  a Democrat who represents the 16th Congressional District covering parts of Westchester County and the Bronx  admitted in September that he mistakenly pulled the fire alarm inside the Cannon House Office Building because he thought he was opening a locked door. The incident was caught on video.

The ensuing building-wide alarm forced an evacuation of the building for about an hour before Capitol police determined there was no danger.

Several Republicans accused Bowman of trying to delay the vote to fund the government ahead of the shutdown deadline despite Bowmans support for the legislation.

At the time, former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy called for an investigation and likened the congressmans actions to the Jan. 6 insurrection.

The situation worsened for Bowman several days later when a memo of talking points prepared by his office suggested Republicans focus their energy on the Nazi members of their party before anything else.

Bowman reached an agreement with the D.C. attorney general to plead guilty to the misdemeanor charge and pay a $1,000 fine. The charge will be withdrawn in three months if he makes a formal apology to the Capitol police.

Im thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia Attorney Generals office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol Police General Counsels office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings, Bowman said in a statement Wednesday. I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped.

_____
Rep. Jamaal Bowman , D-N.Y., indicated Wednesday that he will plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge for pulling a fire alarm in a congressional building on Capitol Hill last month.

Bowman has agreed to pay the maximum fine of $1,000 for one misdemeanor count of falsely pulling a fire alarm  a charge that carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail. He will also provide a formal apology to Capitol Police.

I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," Bowman said in a statement Wednesday.

A spokesperson for the Washington, D.C., attorney general's office said in a separate statement that Bowman "is pleading guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine."

Bowman's office said he made an agreement with the attorney general's office that would lead to the charge's being withdrawn in three months on the condition that he pay the fine and submit the apology letter.

The alarm was set off Sept. 30 in the Cannon House Office Building as Republican lawmakers sought to kick off a vote on a spending measure to keep the government open.

In a statement hours after the incident, Bowman said he activated the alarm by mistake after having come across a door that was typically open for votes but would not open that day.

I am embarrassed to admit that I activated the fire alarm, mistakenly thinking it would open the door. I regret this and sincerely apologize for any confusion this caused, he said at the time.

After the vote, Bowman said, he also met with the sergeant at arms and Capitol Police at their request and explained what happened.

I want to be very clear, this was not me, in any way, trying to delay any vote," Bowman said. My hope is that no one will make more of this than it was.

House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil, R-Wis., said Wednesday that Bowmans excuse does not pass the sniff test, arguing that Bowman fled the scene and had not seized multiple opportunities to alert the Capitol Police of his mistake.

In a charging affidavit released Wednesday, an investigator said that he had reviewed security camera video and that Bowman can be seen pushing multiple doors that would not open before he looked at the emergency fire alarm pull station "and upon seeing it, he reached out and pulled the fire alarm down."

Bowman can also be seen "jogging" as he leaves the building and does not stop to say anything to uniformed officers he passes as he enters the Capitol minutes later, according to the affidavit. It also said the building was evacuated for about 90 minutes before it was reopened after no threat was identified.

A Capitol Police spokesperson said in a statement at the time that police would investigate.

In a statement Wednesday, Capitol Police said that the investigation was complete and that a probable cause arrest warrant had been submitted to the Washington attorney general's office.

"Our agents gathered all the evidence, packaged it up, and sent the entire case with charges to prosecutors for their consideration, Capitol Police said.

Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Mich., who is secretary for the House Republican Conference, wrote on X that she planned to introduce a resolution to censure Bowman and remove him from all committee assignments for the rest of the 118th Congress for activating the alarm.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene , R-Ga., has filed a resolution that would censure Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., over her criticism of Israel, accusing her of recently inciting an insurrection in a House office building.

The measure would censure Tlaib for antisemitic activity, sympathizing with terrorist organizations and leading an insurrection at the United States Capitol Complex," Greene said Thursday morning in remarks on the House floor.

Greene has described a rally on Oct. 18 at the Capitol calling for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war as an insurrection. During the event, hundreds of demonstrators entered the Cannon House office building, causing U.S. Capitol Police to temporarily close access to the building. Capitol Police estimated that they arrested 300 protesters, including three people who were charged with assault on a police officer.

A Capitol Police spokesperson said that to the best of their knowledge, everyone went through security and entered the building the proper way. House and Senate office buildings are open to the public, but people must be screened by magnetometers.

The protest was loud and disruptive, but it wasn't comparable to the insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the building; more than 1,100 people were ultimately charged. Greene has defended them and former President Donald Trump as he has faced accusations he incited the attack.

The demonstration last week was organized by far-left Jewish activist groups, including Jewish Voice for Peace and IfNotNow, who are advocating for a cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The Anti-Defamation League says that Jewish Voice for Peace is "a radical anti-Israel activist group that advocates for a complete economic, cultural and academic boycott of the state of Israel" and that IfNotNow's "criticism of the Israeli government has been extreme, including calling it a 'violent, bloodthirsty regime,' and alleging that it is perpetrating genocide in Gaza."

Greene's resolution cites a number of statements Tlaib has tweeted or retweeted supporting Palestinians and criticizing the Israeli government.

Because its a privileged resolution, the House will have to vote on it within two legislative days. The House is set to return to Washington next Wednesday, so a vote wouldnt happen until next week at the earliest.

Tlaib, the only Palestinian American in Congress, didn't attend the protest indoors, a source familiar with the matter said, but she delivered remarks at a rally with the demonstrators outside the Capitol.

"I wish all the Palestinian people would see this. I wish they can see that not all of America want them to die, that they are not disposable," she said. "They didnt ask to be born in occupation. ... The dehumanization has chipped at my soul."

She added: "The warmongers are out, yall. They are ready. They want to kill and not stop. Its pure insanity."

In a statement Thursday, Tlaib called Greene's resolution "deeply Islamophobic" and said it "attacks peaceful Jewish anti-war advocates."

"I am proud to stand in solidarity with Jewish peace advocates calling for a ceasefire and an end to the violence. I will not be bullied, I will not be dehumanized, and I will not be silenced," she said. "I will continue to call for ceasefire, for the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, for the release of hostages and those arbitrarily detained, and for every American to be brought home."

"I will continue to work for a just and lasting peace that upholds the human rights and dignity of all people, and ensures that no person, no child has to suffer or live in fear of violence," she added.

A number of lawmakers have criticized Tlaib and other members of the "squad" for their response to Hamas' Oct. 7 terrorist attack in Israel. Members of Congress have also lambasted Tlaib and Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., for alleging that Israel was responsible for an explosion at a hospital in Gaza last week that killed civilians. Israeli and U.S. officials have said intelligence indicates the blast was most likely caused by a misfired rocket from Palestinian Islamic Jihad that broke apart after the engine failed.

In a threaded tweet Wednesday, Tlaib said, "Media outlets and third-party analysts have raised doubts about claims and evidence offered by both Israel and the Gaza Ministry of Health, and I agree with the United Nations that an independent investigation is necessary."

Tlaib was among nine House Democrats who voted against a resolution Wednesday condemning Hamas' attack, which left 1,400 people dead and more than 200 held hostage in Gaza.

Greene has propagated antisemitic conspiracy theories in the past and made highly questionable statements about the Holocaust.

For example, she has suggested that California wildfires were ignited by "Jewish space lasers" and compared Covid-19-related rules to the Holocaust. She compared mask mandates to the yellow Stars of David that Jews were forced to wear during the Holocaust; she apologized for the remarks after she visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C., following backlash from her colleagues.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
WASHINGTON  House lawmakers on Wednesday elected little-known Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana as the 56th speaker of the House on Wednesday, capping more than three weeks of dysfunction and chaos on Capitol Hill.

Its a stunning rise for the conservative Donald Trump ally and low-ranking member of the GOP leadership team who is now second in line to the presidency. Johnson is arguably the most ideologically conservative person to serve as speaker since Newt Gingrich in the 1990s, and he played an instrumental role in the GOPs effort to overturn the 2020 election.

After weeks of disarray, the GOP demonstrated remarkable unity: All 220 Republicans cast their vote for Johnson, while all 209 Democrats voted for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries of New York.

Follow along for live updates

A friend to all and an enemy to none, House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., said as she nominated Johnson before the vote.

Johnsons election on the floor represents a temporary cease-fire in a GOP civil war that began when Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., and seven other GOP rebels teamed with Democrats to oust Republican Kevin McCarthy from the speakers office.

In the ensuing weeks, various factions of the 221-member GOP Conference clashed over who should succeed McCarthy, paralyzing the lower chamber and preventing any legislative work from proceeding amid a new threat of a government shutdown and wars in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Johnsons work will start immediately. Hell have to work within his party and with the Biden White House to figure out how to fund the government before money runs out on Nov. 17 and on delivering critical aid packages to U.S. allies, Ukraine and Israel.

The GOPs process for picking a new speaker resembled the arcade game Whac-a-Mole. Republicans first nominated the No. 2 leader, Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana, who dropped out less than 36 hours later after opponents blocked his path to 217 floor votes.

Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, was up next, but after three failed floor votes, he, too, bowed out of the running. The party next selected Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., the No. 3 Republican, as their pick, but he realized he couldnt amass 217 votes either after Trump came out against him, and he quit just hours after winning the nomination.

Johnson was able to unite the fractured conference through a combination of good timing, his conservatism and his reputation for a pleasant demeanor. Johnson emerged as his colleagues were growing increasingly fatigued from the drawn-out speaker crisis; he had the backing of Trump and his close allies; and during his short four terms in Congress, the well-liked Johnson made few political enemies in the Capitol.

As GOP Conference vice chairman, a post he has held since 2021, Johnson is the seventh-ranking Republican on the leadership team. His elevation to speaker from such a low-level post is extremely rare and reminiscent of former Illinois Republican Rep. Denny Hasterts rise in 1999 from chief deputy whip to speaker in the wake of former Speaker Newt Gingrichs resignation.

Johnson, 51, who has represented his northwestern Louisiana district since 2017, makes history as the first speaker ever elected from that state. His election also means that the top two Republicans in leadership  himself and Scalise  now hail from the Bayou State.

Johnson is a protege of both Scalise and Jordan and has served under Jordan on the Judiciary Committee. A lawyer with expertise in constitutional law, Johnson chairs the panels subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government.

A Trump ally, Johnson was one of the leaders of the GOP effort to keep the former president in power after his defeat to Joe Biden in 2020. Johnson led the amicus brief, signed by 100 Republicans, backing a Texas lawsuit seeking to invalidate the 2020 election results in four swing states won by Biden.

In fact, the New York Times called Johnson the most important architect of the Electoral College objections.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
As news of extended lockdowns, staffing shortages, deaths, overcrowding and infestations plague Wisconsin's prison system, a report released Wednesday shows the state continues to have some of the highest incarceration rates and largest prison budgets in the nation.

The report, "Prison Blues: Corrections still a huge cost driver and policy challenge for Wisconsin," was released the same day advocates and family members gathered outside of the Waupun Correctional Institution to protest the lengthy lockdown there.

Department of Corrections Secretary Kevin Carr has referred to the circumstances in Waupun, Green Bay and other correctional institutions not as lockdowns but as a "state of modified movement," brought on by staffing shortages and disruptive behavior.

Here's what to know about the Wisconsin Policy Forum report:

Wisconsin's overall incarceration rate exceeds national rates  but not for the reasons you'd think

Among neighboring states, Wisconsin has the highest rate of incarceration: for every 100,000 residents, 344 are incarcerated.

The second highest in the region, Michigan, has a rate of 321 incarcerated people per 100,000 residents.

It's also higher than the national rate of 316 per 100,000 residents.

The top cause of incarceration in Wisconsin is not people committing new crimes, the report says. Instead, it's revocations for rule violations for those on community supervision after being released from custody.

Those revocations accounted for about 30% of all new admissions in the state from 2000 until 2020, according to the report.

Revocations are strongly associated with substance abuse issues, according to the Badger Institute. Data from the Department of Corrections show that 72% of people on supervision were in need of substance abuse treatment in 2022.

"In the absence of more varied, extended and holistic community-based AODA (alcohol and other drugs) treatment options, it is predictable that this portion of the community supervision population will continue to face revocation at higher rates than their non-substance-abusing counterparts," wrote University of Wisconsin Law School professor Cecelia Klingele.

Wisconsin keeps people on extended supervision longer than other states

Wisconsin has some of the most severe maximum terms for supervision in the country.

The federal government and many states limit probation to three to five years, while Wisconsin requires extended supervision to equal a quarter of time spent in prison.

More than 63,000 adults were on extended supervision in Wisconsin as of mid-August, nearly three times the state prison population.

Wisconsin had the third highest Black-white imprisonment disparity in the country

In 2021, Wisconsin had the third-highest Black-white imprisonment disparity in the nation based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics and the U.S. Census Bureau.

The disparity is calculated by dividing the Black incarceration rate by the white incarceration rate.

Black Wisconsinites are imprisoned at just under 12 times the rate of white Wisconsinites. New Jersey and California had the highest disparities, at a little more than 12 times and 15 times respectively.

The report also found Wisconsin imprisoned more Black people than anywhere else in the country. For every 100,000 Black Wisconsinites, 2,104 end up incarcerated. Oklahoma has the second highest rate of Black people incarcerated, at 1,932 per 100,000 Black residents.

"Historical developments, socioeconomic factors, and policy choices made over many decades have contributed to these incarceration rates and racial disparities in Wisconsin," the report notes.

Wisconsin spends more on corrections than most states

Wisconsin spends $220 per state resident to fund the prison system, more than most states.

The national average is $182, according to the National Institute of Corrections.

The 2023-25 Wisconsin budget earmarks $2.76 billion in general-purpose revenue to the Department of Corrections, making it the third-highest recipient among all state agencies, the report says.

But the high investment has not solved problems in the prison system. Wisconsin's 37 correctional institutions and centers remain overcrowded and understaffed. Some facilities, such as Green Bay Correctional Institution, are in disrepair and have been recommended for closure.

Report recommends two steps to address high incarceration rates

The report cited best practices in substance abuse and mental health treatment, as well as evaluating revocations differently as ways to reduce the state's high incarceration rates.

More than 42% of incarcerated adult men have at least one mental health condition, according to the state Department of Corrections.

The American Psychological Association recommends diverting people with mental health conditions from correctional facilities.

The report also recommended policymakers increase funding for substance abuse treatment programs within the prisons and diversion programs for those convicted of nonviolent offenses linked to substance abuse.

Finally, it highlighted changes made by the Department of Corrections in 2021 that raised the threshold for revocation. For example, if a violation is related to substance use, all other treatment options must be exhausted before revocation.

Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her Twitter profile at @natalie_eilbert. If you or someone you know is dealing with suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text "Hopeline" to the National Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Wisconsin incarceration rates, prison budgets among highest in nation
Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Authorities in Washington investigated a report of human remains in a cave on a river and arrived to find the sunken skull was actually a plastic beer bong.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police said an officer responded alongside a Pend Oreille County sheriff's detective and a Border Patrol agent when a paddle boarder reported seeing human remains in a cave on the Pend Oreille River, near the Canadian border.

The investigators took jet skis to the cave entrance and swam inside, where they spotted what appeared to be a skull underwater inside the cave.

The apparent skeletal remains turned out to be a plastic beer bong shaped like a skull and spinal column.

The beer bong had been filled with rocks, leading investigators to suspect it was intentionally placed under the water as a prank.
Photo taken on May 25, 2022 shows the German Bundestag in Berlin, capital of Germany. (Xinhua/Ren Pengfei)

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has vowed to take tougher action on irregular migration. "We must finally deport on a large scale those who have no right to stay in Germany," he told the German magazine Spiegel recently.

BERLIN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Faced with a steep increase in the number of migrants and refugees arriving in the country, the German government approved a draft law on Wednesday which aims to accelerate the deportation of rejected asylum seekers.

In order to give authorities more time to prepare for deportations, the maximum duration of pre-deportation custody is to be increased from 10 days to 28 days. The draft law still needs to be approved by the lower house of the German Parliament (Bundestag).

"With this bill, we are ensuring that people without the right to stay have to leave our country more quickly," Minister of the Interior Nancy Faeser said. "In this way, we are strengthening society's support for the admission of refugees to Germany."

The deportation of members of criminal organizations is to be made significantly easier, according to the Ministry of the Interior (BMI).

Police officers patrol at the border between Germany and France in Kehl, Germany, March 17, 2020. (Photo by Ulrich Hufnagel/Xinhua)

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has vowed to take tougher action on irregular migration. "We must finally deport on a large scale those who have no right to stay in Germany," he told the German magazine Spiegel recently.

Last week, Germany notified the European Commission that temporary border checks will be carried out at the country's borders with Poland, the Czech Republic and Switzerland to combat human smuggling and to restrict irregular migration.

By the beginning of October, the Federal Police had already detected around 98,000 unauthorized entries into Germany, 6,000 more than in the whole of last year.

"Smuggling is thought to account for one in four illegal entries by third-country nationals into Germany," the BMI said. 
At least 16 people are feared dead and dozens more injured as police continue the hunt for an active shooter in Lewiston, Maine.

Two of incidents reportedly occurred in a bowling alley and a bar, with footage shared online showing multiple police vehicles rushing to the scene in the Lewiston area. Local businesses were advised to lock down or close by authorities.

The Central Maine Medical Centre issued a statement online, saying it was responding to a mass casualty event, but did not share details on the precise number of those injured.

Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients, the statement read.

ABC News reported that more than 10 people had been killed, with dozens more injured. The outlet cited law enforcement sources who have been briefed on the shooting.

CNN put the total at at least 16 fatalities, with 50 to 60 people injured in the incidents, also citing law enforcement.

Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released pictures of the suspect entering a bowling alley (Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office)

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs office later released two pictures of the alleged suspect, seeking identification. The bearded man pictured wore a brown sweatshirt and dark trousers and appeared to be holding a large assault-style weapon.

An expert for CNN described the weapon as an AR15-style rifle with a telescopic sight. The man was wearing blue tactical pants with bulging pockets, suggesting the possibility he was carrying extra ammunition.

The man appeared to be entering a bowling alley.

The force wrote: Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large.

Lewiston public information officer Derrick St Laurent told The Sun Journal at about 8:15 local time that another shooting was reported at the Walmart Distribution Center on Alfred A Plourde Parkway.

A message put out online by Maine State Police advised members of the public to shelter in place.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, the force said. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow. pic.twitter.com/RrGMG6AvSI  Maine State Police (@MEStatePolice) October 26, 2023

A text sent out by Lewiston Public Schools urged anyone near or at the school for conferences to get in a safe place.

We are going into lockdown. I will provide more information as it is available and appropriate, the alert read.

Lewiston is about 36 miles north of Portland, Maine.
By Daniel Wiessner

(Reuters) -A group of Republican-led U.S. states on Thursday said they would appeal a Texas-based federal judge's decision rejecting their challenge to a rule from President Joe Biden 's administration allowing employee retirement plans to consider environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in investment decisions.

The 26 states, led by Texas and Utah, filed a notice of appeal in federal court in Amarillo. U.S. District Judge Matthew Kacsmaryk threw out their lawsuit on Sept. 21. Oil drilling company Liberty Energy Inc and an oil and gas trade group are also plaintiffs in the case and joined in the appeal.

The U.S. Department of Justice declined to comment.

"Our coalition was deeply disappointed in the courts ruling," Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes said in a statement. The rule clearly exceeded the government's authority, Reyes said. "We look forward to our appeal prevailing."

The appeal goes to the New Orleans-based 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which is considered one of the most conservative federal appeals courts and has 12 judges appointed by Republican presidents out of a total of 16.

A notice of appeal does not include any legal arguments or outline the basis for an appeal.

The rule was adopted last year by the U.S. Labor Department, reversing a 2020 rule devised by Republican former President Donald Trump's administration restricting ESG investing by retirement plans. It covers plans that collectively invest $12 trillion on behalf of more than 150 million people.

Congress in March passed a Republican-backed resolution to repeal the rule but Biden, a Democrat, vetoed it.

ESG involves factors that investors may take into account such as a company's climate- and environment-related policies, diversity practices and corporate governance issues such as executive compensation. Some Republicans have derided ESG as "woke" capitalism that puts a premium on liberal goals over investor returns.

The Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, called ERISA, requires retirement plan administrators to act solely in the interest of participants in the plan. The states in their lawsuit claim the rule violates ERISA by allowing these plans to consider non-financial factors. The states have said the rule endangers the retirement savings of millions of Americans and will deplete state tax revenue.

Kacsmaryk in his decision upholding the rule said it still requires financial factors to come first and does not require or even encourage retirement plans to consider other factors such as climate change and social and labor issues.

(Reporting by Daniel Wiessner in Albany, New York and Nate Raymond in Boston, Editing by Will Dunham and Alexia Garamfalvi)
Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) was hours away from winning the speakership when a reporter asked him about the instrumental role he played in the effort to deny certifying the 2020 presidential election on Jan. 6.

Next question, he responded.

Whether the Republican Party can ever reconcile its divergent response to Jan. 6 is not the next question. Its the question defining this turbulent political moment in Washington and beyond  roiling and coursing just below the surface. These days, all roads lead back to the original lie that Donald Trump won.



Consider that deposed House Speaker Kevin McCarthy ascended to the speakership thanks to his quick work to repair his relationship with Trump after calling his behavior on Jan. 6 atrocious and totally wrong. There was no such luck for Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), whose rise to the gavel encountered the opposition of, among others, Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.), who said he wouldnt vote for an election denier.

Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) lasted approximately four hours as the partys third nominee  his effort sunk, in large part, because Trump attacked him over his vote to certify the election results on Jan. 6. Johnson, by contrast, would prove an acceptable speaker in Trumps estimation, having been the chief architect of an effort to overturn 2020 election results in four swing states.

Eventually, even Buck would make the strained distinction that Johnson's actions were different, because Jordan took his challenge to the floor but Johnson kept his reservation for the courts.



At virtually the same time as all this was happening, ABC reported that Trumps ex-chief of staff Mark Meadows  granted immunity by special counsel Jack Smith as he investigates the former presidents effort to overturn the election  had told federal investigators Trump had been dishonest with the public after polls closed on Nov. 3, 2020. Meadows himself had also told Trump allegations of widespread voter fraud were baseless, according to the report.

The weeks splitscreen cast into stark relief just how much the Republican Party remains riven over whether to believe the lie that Trump won, a perhaps unbridgeable divide. Only on rare occasions, though, does the divide come to light: in the heat of a speakers race, for example, or grand jury testimony with immunity in ones back pocket, or in a presidential debate. Except for moments like those, the party and its members are mostly keen to keep the divisions hidden. Some things, after all, are just better left unsaid. Or easier.

But until the party reckons with them, it can't truly move forward, said Fergus Cullen, the former chair of the New Hampshire Republican Party.

Can we Republicans agree on three things, please? One: the 2020 election was not stolen, Cullen said. Two: What happened on January 6 was a bad thing. Three: We shouldn't be nominating somebody facing 91 criminal indictments.

But after three weeks mired in a speaker stalemate, and fewer than 90 days before the Iowa caucuses, and four months ahead of Trumps trial in federal court on charges he allegedly tried to steal the 2020 election, this combustible mix of issues is about to become front and center.

It just shows that there's a lack of understanding or lack of willingness to confront what happened that day and why it was so dangerous, said a former Republican congressional leadership staffer granted anonymity to assess the party frankly. And I think that's borne out the stranglehold that Donald Trump still has on the party.

This person added: One side is winning and one side losing and the side that is winning right now inside the party are the people that were not willing to accept the results of the election and wanted to overturn it.



The whitewashing of Jan. 6 is not limited to the House. In Virginia, Tim Griffin, a Republican elections attorney who played a pivotal role in trying to overturn 2020 results in multiple swing states, is poised to win a statehouse bid next month. This, despite opposition from within his own Virginia Republican Party.

On the presidential hustings, the non-Trump candidates flit from Iowa to New Hampshire, going through the motions on the trail: wanting to talk about anything but Jan. 6.



Back in August, on stage for the first debate in Milwaukee, everyone except biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy sided with former Vice President Mike Pence s actions to certify the election results on Jan. 6. And yet all but former governors Chris Christie of New Jersey and Asa Hutchinson of Arkansas also raised their hands signifying that they would support Trump as president in 2024 even if he was convicted of any of his four pending legal cases, including over Jan. 6.

No one personifies the one-sided civil war happening in the GOP over Jan. 6 more than Pence. Before he announced his presidential bid, a longtime Pence confidant said Pence faced a decision.

Hes got to decide whether he wants to be a Jim-Baker-like statesman that can just always be principled and speak the truth for the rest of his life, with no calculation of political cost, this person said. Or do you want to get the nomination?

This person added: Hes not going to go Liz Cheney.



At first, Pence seemed to opt for a Jim Baker-Cheney lane. But the former vice president, who has staked much of his presidential campaign on having done his duty on Jan. 6, now finds himself tripping over the logical consequences of that stance  and not fully embracing Cheneys tack. Among those raising their hands that night back in Milwaukee was Pence, who just two months earlier had said in his announcement that anyone who puts themselves over the Constitution should never be president of the United States. And yet there he was on CNN days ago, saying Jordan would be an outstanding speaker, despite the fact that Jordan  someone who violated Pences red line on Jan. 6  would then be in the line of presidential succession.

Pence twisted himself in knots again on Tuesday, posting to X that Johnson, the architect of the Texas amicus brief that sought to invalidate the 2020 results in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, was a proven conservative leader, rooting for a person who threatened the peaceful transfer of power to now be second in line in presidential succession.



Pence urged every House GOP member to vote to elect this good and decent man as the next Speaker of the House, which they did on Wednesday.

Pence will have other moments in which he will have to choose which side of the divide he wants to occupy. But they likely wont come as a presidential candidate. He is struggling to qualify for the next GOP debate in Miami. And has dwindling cash on hand.

When Super Tuesday comes on March 5, he very well may be out of the race.

But he still could be asked to comment on the events of Jan. 6. Not as a presidential candidate, but as the governments star witness against Trump. That trial begins the day before.

For Republicans, Jan. 6, like the past, is not dead. Its not even past.
A group of conservatives in the US Senate are pushing to drive a wedge between military aid for Ukraine and Israel at a time when passing legislation to support the former seems more uncertain than ever.

The senators, including JD Vance, Ted Cruz, Mike Lee and Roger Marshall, are hoping to force Senate leadership to separate a planned funding package for Ukraine and Israel into two pieces of legislation. Opposition to aid for Ukraine is sharply growing among conservatives in the Senate and House in particular, with some arguing that continued support for such a cause risks further escalating the conflict into a global war.

Last week, the White House submitted a supplemental budget request to Congress requesting $105bn in funding for three areas: Ukraine, Israel, and security measures along the US-Mexico border. Republicans have long been urging the Biden administration to act on border security, making a combined bill all the more politically risky for GOP lawmakers to oppose.

Mr Marshalls legislation was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.

My colleagues and I firmly believe that any aid to Israel should not be used as leverage to send tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine, the Kansas Republican senator told the newspaper.

Leadership of both parties in the Senate remain opposed to the idea; Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell specifically stated that he did not believe the two issues should be separated in a series of interviews with news networks over the weekend. Speaking with CBS News, he alluded to the reason for the two being lumped together: Concern that his party will be unable to rally enough support for Ukraine funding in the House.

I know there are some Republicans in the Senate, and maybe more in the House, saying Ukraine is somehow different. I view it as all interconnected, he said on Face the Nation.

Military leaders such as the departing chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen Mark Milley, continue to argue that supporting Ukraines defensive war against Russia remains an important geopolitical objective for the US given the need to counter Russias military aggression in the immediate future. Not doing so, Mr Milley told CBSs Norah ODonnell in a recent interview, would increase the probability of a great power war in the next 10 to 15 years.

"If Ukraine loses and Putin wins, I think you would be certainly increasing, if not doubling, your defense budget in the years ahead, Gen Milley added to CBS News.

But the political realities in the House around the issue remain uncertain, especially given the election of a new Speaker, Mike Johnson, on Wednesday.

Mr Johnson has never specifically come out in opposition to funding for Ukraine; however, he holds the unenviable position of wrangling an unruly Republican caucus that is far from decided on the issue, and the strongest opponents of further funding for Ukraine in the chamber are the same members who just led the successful ouster of his predecessor, Kevin McCarthy. He has also voted against government funding measures that included Ukraine funding alongside other general government spending.

American taxpayers have sent over $100 billion in aid to Ukraine in the last year.



They deserve to know if the Ukrainian government is being entirely forthcoming and transparent about the use of this massive sum of taxpayer resources. pic.twitter.com/pf0ZpjzU2f  Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) February 28, 2023

The Speaker gave indications earlier this year that he could support further aid to Ukraine only if oversight measures are implemented to track how the aid is used by Ukrainian officials after it is approved. The new Speaker called for such measures during a hearing of the Armed Services Committee earlier this year.
U.S. House of Representatives meet to vote on new Speaker of the House at the U.S. Capitol in Washington

By Andy Sullivan and Andrew Goudsward

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - New U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson has joined his conservative Republican colleagues in voting against abortion and same-sex marriage, but has drawn the most attention for his efforts to overturn Donald Trump 's 2020 election defeat.

His new role gives him huge clout steering the chamber, and a seat at the table with Democratic President Joe Biden and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer in negotiating bills of all kinds. But after action Congress took last year he'll have little ability to interfere with the 2024 presidential election, unless he refused to follow the law.

Since winning the speaker's gavel on Wednesday, the 51-year-old Louisiana lawmaker has declined to comment on his work with former President Trump following the 2020 election, or say whether he believes Biden legitimately won.

While he and 199 of his colleagues voted against the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, which was bundled in a year-end spending bill, that legislation will make it much harder for lawmakers to do anything but formally accept the results.

The bipartisan law, passed as a response to the chaos of Jan. 6, 2021, requires approval of one-fifth of the House and Senate to consider a challenge to a state's results -- a much higher bar than existed before, when any single lawmaker from each chamber had the ability to trigger a challenge.

"If it's followed we should be in good shape, and there should be every expectation that it would be followed," said Edward Foley, an election-law expert at the Ohio State University.

Democratic groups have blasted Johnson for his legal work advocating for conservative social causes before being elected to the House in 2016.

He defended his state's ban on same-sex marriage against two lawsuits in 2013, which ended when the U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay marriage nationwide two years later.

He also represented a biblical theme park in a religious discrimination lawsuit against the state of Kentucky and opposed a court ruling that struck down laws criminalizing gay sex.

In Congress, Johnson has voted with most of his fellow Republicans against legislation that would legalize abortion nationwide and provide some protections for same-sex marriage if the Supreme Court reverses his decision.

He voted against a September stopgap funding bill that narrowly averted a partial government shutdown, though he has since said that he now plans to support one ahead of the next looming funding deadline on Nov. 17.

TRUMP ELECTION FIGHT

Following Trump's defeat, Johnson crafted a legal brief, signed by 125 other House Republicans, that sought to persuade the Supreme Court to reject election results from several contested states Trump had lost to Biden.

Johnson argued not that the election had been tainted by widespread voter fraud, as Trump and many of his allies falsely claimed, but instead that some states Trump lost had illegally changed their election procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic, rendering the results from those states invalid.

Johnson stuck with those arguments even after the Supreme Court rejected the case.

"We are convinced the election laws in certain states were changed in an unconstitutional manner," Johnson wrote in a statement that was signed by 36 other House Republicans and released on Jan. 6, 2021, hours before a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a failed attempt to disrupt the election certification.

Hours later, Johnson and 138 other House Republicans voted against certifying Biden's victory.

Johnson could be in a more prominent position in January 2025, when Congress meets to certify the results of next year's presidential race, provided Republicans retain control of the House and keep him as speaker.

Even then, he would have little ability to influence the outcome. "The speaker has a very limited and almost nonexistent role in Electoral College process," said Michael Thorning, an election-law expert at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

The law also clarifies that vice presidents only play a ceremonial role when they preside over the certification.

Foley said a House speaker could, in theory, refuse to follow the law or even declare themselves acting president. A House speaker also would have the ability to influence proceedings if it had to declare a winner if no candidate won a majority of electoral votes.

"It feels unrealistic, but what happened on Jan. 6, 2021, felt unrealistic, too, until it happened," he said.

(Reporting by Andy Sullivan and Andrew Goudesward; Editing by Alistair Bell)
Republicans have delayed more than $1 billion in funding for the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, better known as PEPFAR, the latest complication facing a lifesaving HIV program that has been ensnared in a broader political fight around abortion.

Created by President George W. Bush in 2003, PEPFAR has been credited with saving more than 25 million lives around the world. The nearly $7 billion annual initiative, which is managed by the State Department, has distributed millions of courses of medicine to treat HIV, funded testing and prevention services, and supported an array of other interventions. Dozens of foreign governments rely on PEPFAR as a key partner.

Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post.

The program has traditionally enjoyed bipartisan support in Congress, which has reauthorized it every five years. But lawmakers this fall failed to reauthorize PEPFAR by a Sept. 30 deadline amid claims from conservative advocacy groups that the program is inadvertently funding abortions overseas - allegations that Biden officials, PEPFAR staff and public health leaders say are unfounded and threaten the program's mission.

PEPFAR can continue to operate without congressional authorization, with much of its current funding intact. But Republicans have been placing holds on notifications that the State Department is required to send to Congress before PEPFAR spends any additional money, according to four people with knowledge of the funding delays, three of whom spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss private negotiations.

The GOP-led House Foreign Affairs Committee in August began objecting to language in PEPFAR's country and regional operational plan, which offers guidance to partners around the globe about how to administer the aid program, according to the people with knowledge of the dispute.

The Republicans' funding delays and objections, which have not been previously reported, center on PEPFAR's use of terms relating to abortion, transgender people, sex workers and other areas, with the committee repeatedly demanding rewrites from the State Department. The negotiations have delayed the State Department from releasing more than $1 billion in funding for PEPFAR - funding that the program is planning to use to buy medicines, pay for staff and support other essential PEPFAR functions, several of the people said. PEPFAR officials have pushed back on some of the requested changes, including an attempt by House Republicans to change how terms such as "human rights" appear in the document.

Keifer Buckingham, advocacy director for the Open Society Foundations and a former Democratic congressional aide who worked on PEPFAR's last reauthorization in 2018, said that prior PEPFAR documents used similar language and addressed the same issues.

"None of that phrasing is new . . . and it's not like policy has dramatically changed," Buckingham said, adding that House Republicans' complaints about PEPFAR language are "ideological" and parallel their domestic political priorities around abortion and transgender issues.

The State Department confirmed that the House Foreign Affairs Committee has delayed approving the notifications that are required for allocating funds to PEPFAR.

"The delays in approval are straining PEPFAR country operations and threatening PEPFAR's ability to continue implementation," the State Department said in a statement. "If the [notifications] are not approved very soon, PEPFAR's lifesaving work and gains will be threatened." The department did not specify the amount of funding at stake.

Lawmakers have placed holds on PEPFAR funding in prior years in hopes of securing changes or getting answers about the program. But experts noted that the climate around the program has shifted in the wake of last year's Supreme Court ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, which effectively overturned the national right to abortion.

"If the current [funding] delay is based on these larger issues that have also stymied reauthorization, it would be a potentially serious situation," said Jennifer Kates, director of global health and HIV policy at the health policy nonprofit KFF.

The House Foreign Affairs Committee referred questions to the State Department.

Republicans' hold on PEPFAR funding comes as lawmakers continue to debate whether to reauthorize the program for one year, five years or not at all. In the wake of the Dobbs ruling, Republicans have alleged the Biden administration is using PEPFAR and other programs to support abortion access, a claim that public health experts roundly deny.

"PEPFAR's never been an abortion program," John Nkengasong, the program's director, said in remarks Monday at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a think tank based in Washington. "It is not and will never be because there's a law, the 1973 Helms amendment," which restricts U.S. foreign assistance programs from funding abortion abroad, he added.

Public health experts have clamored for lawmakers to swiftly reauthorize PEPFAR for five years through what is known as a "clean reauthorization" - effectively rolling over the current structure. Current and former PEPFAR officials said that a five-year reauthorization would protect the program from political pressures and help global partners plan their strategies.

Asking Congress to vote every year to reauthorize PEPFAR "is basically asking for the appropriations over time to dwindle down and [in] an irrevocable way," Mark Dybul, a former head of the program, said at the CSIS event.

The Biden administration has also warned that Congress's delay to reauthorize the program is "damaging the United States' image globally, particularly in Africa," and threatening plans to acquire supplies, roll out innovations and take other steps that require certainty about PEPFAR's long-term viability.

But some Republicans want to reauthorize the program for just one year - arguing that it would allow a future GOP president to make changes to it. Conservative advocacy groups also have warned lawmakers that a vote to reauthorize PEPFAR in its current form will be viewed as a vote to support abortion abroad.

House Republicans last month advanced a measure that would extend PEPFAR funding for one year while reinstating a Trump-era policy, Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance, that explicitly bars global assistance funds from being used for abortion.

Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Tex.), the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that he had "high hopes" that lawmakers could reach a compromise to reauthorize PEPFAR.

"Time is running out and it's critical to find a path forward and get PEPFAR reauthorized. I know all parties involved in this discussion care about PEPFAR's success," McCaul said in a statement. "But that means they also all need to be willing to come to the negotiating table - and everyone needs to be prepared to give a little."

Having failed to sway holdout Republicans by focusing on PEPFAR's public health accomplishments, advocates are increasingly touting the program's national security implications. The George W. Bush Institute sent a letter to congressional leaders Wednesday, signed by more than 30 organizations and leaders in global health, foreign relations and faith communities, saying that a five-year "clean" reauthorization would help fend off strategic rivals seeking influence in regions that rely on PEPFAR support.

"As authoritarian China and Russia seek to increase their influence in Africa by any means possible, PEPFAR has been a shining example of compassion, transparency and accountability, as well as a massive strategic success story for the United States," the letter reads. "Abandoning it abruptly now would send a bleak message, suggesting we are no longer able to set aside our politics for the betterment of democracies and the world."

Deborah Birx of the Bush Institute, who led PEPFAR during the Obama and Trump administrations and helped organize Wednesday's letter, said the congressional debate over the program "is bigger than PEPFAR," citing the growing political divides over foreign aid, funding the Defense Department and other areas that were traditionally bipartisan.

"There are places where this country has compromised across the aisle for issues that transcend any specific party," Birx added. "That's what PEPFAR was about - translating the best of America."

PEPFAR's fate has been further clouded by uncertainty in Congress, as House Republicans spent most of October without a speaker, paralyzing legislative efforts in the chamber. Lawmakers and staffers told The Washington Post that it was unclear whether newly elected Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who is staunchly antiabortion and a longtime ally of conservative advocacy groups that allege PEPFAR is funding abortions abroad, would favor swiftly reauthorizing the program.

Johnson's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Senate's PEPFAR efforts have also been disrupted. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), who was steering Democrats' efforts and working with Republicans to find a deal, stepped down last month as Senate Foreign Relations Committee chair after he was indicted over allegations he accepted bribes in exchange for exerting political influence. Sen. Ben Cardin (D-Md.), who had not been closely involved in the PEPFAR negotiations, is now serving as committee chair.

Lawmakers in both parties have discussed attempting to attach PEPFAR's reauthorization to a larger bill to fund the government at the end of this year, but congressional staffers and experts have said they remain cautious about its prospects.

"If the only conversation is abortion, we're not going to have a reauthorized bill," Dybul said this week, calling on public health experts "to stand up, to speak, and not allow the misinformation to win."

PEPFAR partner organizations across the globe said they are nervously watching the congressional negotiations, which have raised international questions about whether the United States remains committed to its long-running HIV program.

"The anxiety we are causing to patients and health workers is unfair," Nkatha Njeru, the coordinator and CEO of Nairobi-based African Christian Health Associations Platform, wrote in an email.

It is unclear what will end the logjam. Former president Bush appealed to Congress to reauthorize the program for five years in an op-ed in The Post published last month, and senior officials from both parties have increasingly issued their own pleas.

"I can't think of another thing like PEPFAR until I go back to the Marshall Plan," said Bob McDonald, who served as secretary of Veterans Affairs during the Obama administration and who co-signed the letter sent by the Bush Institute on Wednesday. "Imagine if we had been against the Marshall Plan."

Asked how to break the political stalemate, Nkengasong called for a "dialogue" with the program's critics. "We have to have a forum where we have an honest conversation . . . and lead with facts and not misinformation and disinformation," the PEPFAR chief said.

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President Joe Biden announced in April that he is running for re-election. His campaign and its fundraising entities have a combined $91 million in the bank, and he has hired key political staffers to help helm his 2024 re-election campaign.

He has no serious opposition that threatens to kick him off his party's ballot.

So he will obviously be the Democratic nominee for president, right? Right?

Though no incumbent president has declined to seek a second term since Lyndon Johnson in 1969, there is an unfounded conversation among a faction on the political right that goes something like this: Democratic power brokers will intervene at the last minute to replace a weakened 80-year-old Biden with someone else as the partys nominee.

So heres the scenario that I think is perhaps the most likely and most dangerous, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said on his podcast last month. In August of 2024, the Democrat kingmakers jettison Joe Biden and parachute in Michelle Obama.

I view this as a very serious danger, he said.

Right now the thinking among Republicans that I know is that he may be the initial nominee and they swap out somebody else at the [Democratic] convention, said Cynthia Yockey, a 69-year-old from Fairfield, Iowa, who voted for Donald Trump in both 2016 and 2020. Because that will let the real leaders of the party, of the Democratic Party, to make the decision instead of the people.

The idea, centered largely on the thought that Biden is too old and not sharp enough mentally, is that there's a secret plan to replace Biden due to his health or other reasons by amorphous illuminati-type forces within the Democratic Party. It is not a mainstream thought within the Republican Party, but it has maintained a persistent foothold among a relevant chunk of the GOP base taking their cues from some party officials who continue to toy with the idea.

"I feel like theyre grooming someone, and we all know its not Kamala [Harris]," Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., who is running for the Republican presidential nomination, told the "Ruthless" podcast last week. "So I think they [Democrats] have a backup plan because every time I listen to the current president speak, Im like, 'Is this getting harder?'"

Kevin Munoz, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign, replied that Republicans peddling blatantly false conspiracy theories is nothing new  its easier than telling the truth about their election-denying, abortion-banning, and Social Security-cutting platform. These sources would also have you believe we faked the moon landing and that Tupac is hanging out with Elvis on an island somewhere in the Caribbean."

"These lies dont change the fact that Joe Biden will again beat MAGA Republicans and their twice-rejected agenda in 2024 as his partys nominee for president," Munoz continued.

Concern over Bidens age affecting his ability to do the job has been a hot topic of conversation on both sides of the aisle. An August Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll found that 77% of respondents said Biden is too old for a second term, a number that includes 69% of Democrats.

The same poll found that just 51% of the U.S. adults surveyed thought GOP front-runner Trump  who is 77 years old, just three years younger than Biden  was too old to effectively serve, a number that included 48% of Republicans.

There has been little consideration by Democrats of an actual primary challenge to Biden. Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., has publicly signaled he could mount a primary challenge to the president, saying its time Biden pass the torch. The murmurs, however, have been largely brushed off by both political observers and the White House, which has said Phillips is undertaking a vanity project.

But for conservatives who subscribe to the notion that Biden will not be the Democratic nominee, its not Phillips who is generating buzz, but rather names like former first lady Michelle Obama and California Gov. Gavin Newsom .

Newsom is getting renewed attention this week after meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Newsoms office said the meeting focused on the climate crisis, and how critical China remains in the worlds effort to reduce pollution, but the trip predictably quickly became grist for those who see Newsom waiting in the wing.

Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said he also saw the trip as political after it was announced last week.

"Lets be honest, what this is," he said in Iowa City. "The man is running for president doing it and doing it in disguise doing it with a track record state that is more disastrous by the day."

Newsom, who has said he fully supports Biden as the Democratic nominee, is also set to do a November debate with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican presidential candidate who agreed to the event as his campaign was quickly losing ground to Trump.

Former first lady Michelle Obama at the opening day 2023 U.S. Open (Jackson Lee / GC Images file)

By agreeing to debate DeSantis, Gavin Newsom is really drawing himself into the presidential conversation, Republican operative Ryan Rhodes said. Despite what he is saying, he is maneuvering for a potential push or possible convention floor fight.

If theyre going to do it  the actual power brokers and backrooms and power structure would not want to bring this up until next year in the spring until its too late for someone to jump in and it has to go to a convention fight where superdelegates control the process, Rhodes added.

Still other prominent Republican voices point to Michelle Obama as the person Democratic heavyweights truly want to replace Biden ahead of the general election.

Former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin, who also unsuccessfully ran for Congress in 2022, wrote on X last month, Dont be surprised ... I still say itll be Michelle O  Bidens out.

Spokespeople for Newsom and Obama did not return requests for comment.

In July, longtime Republican operative and Trump ally Roger Stone told the audience at a Turning Point Action conference that the Democratic nominee for president will be Michelle Obama, a comment that was received with a chorus of boos. Stone confirmed to NBC News last week in a text message he still believes Obama will be the Democratic nominee.

There has been no indication Obama wants to run for president or any other elected office, but the discussion about whether she, or others, could be shoehorned into the nomination by national Democratic leaders continues to permeate throughout portions of the GOP base.

I think there are Democrats that would love to do that, said Steve Kirby, who worked as a law enforcement officer in California before retiring and moving to Iowa. I dont know exactly how they would do it without antagonizing a lot of their constituents.

"Democrats do a much better job as a party of lining up behind candidates," added a GOP strategist who requested anonymity to speak freely. "In this case, they are lining up behind Biden with plans to replace him once Republicans have selected their nominee."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
FIRST ON FOX  The Republican National Committee (RNC) and the North Carolina Republican Party (NCGOP) are seeking to intervene in the Democrat-led lawsuit challenging the Tar Heel states newly enacted election law.

North Carolina's Senate Bill 747 provides "appropriate safeguards and transparency while still offering voters ample opportunities to cast a ballot," according to the RNC and the NCGOP's court filing.

The law, which aims to strengthen voter ID, allow for poll watchers and tighten the deadline to return mail-in ballots, was enacted on Oct. 10 after the state's GOP-controlled state legislature voted to override Democratic Gov. Roy Coopers veto.

GOP SET TO GAIN 3 US HOUSE SEATS UNDER MAP ADVANCED IN NC SENATE

Moments after Republicans voted to override the veto, the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and the states Democratic Party filed a lawsuit claiming that the law is "a direct assault on the 'most fundamental' right to vote" and leads to "vote suppression."

The RNC argues that the Democrats lawsuit against the state election board underscores the Biden campaign and the DNCs strategy to loosen "common-sense" election laws ahead of the 2024 election.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Republican National Committee chair Ronna McDaniel sits down for a Fox News interview at the RNC winter meeting in Dana Point, California, on Jan. 25, 2023.

RNC Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel told Fox News Digital that President Biden is "directing his political operation to sue state legislators for passing good laws."

"Joe Biden should be focused on solving the crises that have erupted under his watch, not directing his political operation to sue state legislators for passing good laws," McDaniel said.

Since taking office, President Bidens Department of Justice has filed lawsuits challenging voting laws in Arizona, Georgia and Texas.

Republicans say that the Democratic plaintiffs are "armed with hyperbole and mischaracterization" and "far-reaching assertions" in their claims that SB 747 violates the Constitution and the Voting Rights Act.

The filing also states that the plaintiffs "are not entitled to make their assertions free from challenge and scrutiny. Just as fair election procedures promote fair elections, so do fair election-litigation procedures."

However, Gov. Cooper alleges that the law "attempts to give Republican legislators the authority to decide contested election results" and "has nothing to do with election security and everything to do with Republicans keeping and gaining power."

The Democratic plaintiffs say that they are not aware of "any instances of actual voter fraud" in North Carolina and claim that the state is "indulging the dubious assumption that the measures would deter or prevent such fraud."

NORTH CAROLINA REPUBLICANS GIVE FINAL APPROVAL TO CURB DEMOCRATIC GOV. COOPERS APPOINTMENT POWERS

"Senate Bill 747 cracks down on non-citizens voting, protects bipartisan poll watchers, and gets rid of dark money in elections  polling shows that the American people support these common-sense measures," said McDaniel.

According to a 2021 Axis Research study, 68% percent of registered voters in Arizona, New Hampshire, Nevada and West Virginia believe that state legislatures should dictate the voting rules and regulations in their state.

In addition, 71% of the voters in the study believe that if you need an ID to sign up for welfare, get on a plane or rent a hotel room, it does not "make sense" that one would not need identification for voting.

North Carolina is a key battleground state for the 2024 presidential election. Although Republicans have carried the state in 11 of the last 13 presidential elections, former President Donald Trump won the state by less than 2%  largely due to early voting and a significant get-out-the vote push by Democrats.





Original article source: Republicans move to intervene in Democrat-backed lawsuit challenging North Carolina election law
(CNN) - Senate Democrats are eyeing a new plan to try and work around GOP Sen. Tommy Tubervilles holds on military promotions, which would require a temporary change in rules that would allow them to approve hundreds of military nominations en bloc, a source familiar with these conversations told CNN on Thursday.

Many Republicans  including the ranking GOP member of the Senate Armed Services Committee  say they are opposed to the move, casting doubt on whether its a viable option as Tubervilles holds enter their tenth month.

The idea has been circulating for months, but has picked up momentum in recent weeks as it has become increasingly clear that Tuberville will not relent.

The proposal could go to the Senate Rules Committee as soon as next week, the source told CNN. The move would also need Republican support on the floor because Democrats want to do this at a 60- or 67-vote threshold to ensure that it would be bipartisan and to guard against a Republican majority in the future using a similar process to circumvent one at a time up-or-down votes on nominees moving through the Senate. The block of nominees wouldnt include some higher-level military promotions, which senators would still want to confirm one at a time.

Sen. Roger Wicker, Armed Services ranking Republican member, told CNN he hasnt been part of the conversations about a rules change. Pressed on if hed be open to it, he said, No.

Sen. James Lankford, an Oklahoma Republican, also told CNN, No, when asked if he would entertain a potential rules change to more quickly advance hundreds of military nominations.

You have to be careful when you start changing rules because they have ramifications beyond the immediate incident, Sen. Bill Cassidy, a Louisiana Republican, told CNN.

Sources urged caution as it is still possible that Democrats do not move forward with the change, but it represents a real option as Tuberville has stood in the way of nominations for months. The move was first reported by Punchbowl News.

Even Republicans who often cross party lines to work with Democrats and have criticized Tubervilles holds publicly were not ready to back the Democrats idea.

I am really hesitant about changing the rules, but weve got to address the stalemate, so I dont know, said Lisa Murkowski, a moderate Republican from Alaska.

GOP Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah said hed prefer if Tuberville and the administration could reach some kind of compromise as opposed to changing the rules.

I will take a look at it, he said.

While Democrats leading the effort, including Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, say they are continuing to talk with GOP colleagues about the path forward, the effort faces some significant hurdles including a potential backlash from the anti-abortion community that could see any effort to skirt Tubervilles holds as an afront to the GOPs orthodoxy on a core issue.

Since February, Tuberville has been holding up military promotions because of a Department of Defense policy that reimburses travel costs for members of the military who have to leave the state they are stationed in to get reproductive care in another state. The department enacted the policy after the reversal of Roe v. Wade last year, overturning the constitutional right to an abortion and leaving the issue to individual states.

Tuberville vowed the threat of a rule would not pressure him to back off and while he didnt know if outside groups might mobilize against senators who voted with Democrats to allow the rules change, he said he did expect there would be backlash.

Im not gonna back off because they say they are gonna change the rules, he said. Then, they gotta get the votes. Then they gotta get a bunch of Republican votes. Thatd be mass suicide.

Tuberville said abortion is the partys number one stance

If its not number one, its pretty close, he said. If you get Republicans voting for abortion, then I dont know what would happen.

The floated rules change could come before the Senate Rules Committee as soon as next week. But, the measure would need to get at least nine Republican votes on the Senate floor in order to pass.

If they can work something out with Sen. Tuberville, I am all ears, but I wouldnt support changing the rules. Once we do it for this, then its Well change it for this and well change it for this, GOP Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri said. Pretty soon my hope is Republicans will have a majority in this chamber, and I will just say once you bulldoze these rules and make it easier for the majority to do so, the next majority is going to want that same advantage.

For months, senators on the Armed Services Committee have been trying to find a way forward that could get around Tubervilles holds. Democrats have argued that it is up to Republican leadership to pressure Tuberville to back off. But despite some brief conversations with Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, Tuberville has made clear he wont give up his holds unless the Department of Defense rescinds its policy or the Senate holds a vote to uphold it at a 60-vote threshold, something that would never pass because of GOP opposition.

Republicans are largely opposed to the policy and have tried to walk a fine line on the issue of abortion even as they have called on Tuberville to end his holds. In September, Wicker sent a letter to Austin asking him to clearly articulate how many servicewomen had actually used the reimbursement policy, writing, I received information that the total number of women who have been granted administrative absence and reimbursed travel pursuant to this policy is approximately 12.

Tubervilles hold cannot ultimately stop military promotions from being approved, but moving through hundreds of them on the floor with an up-or-down vote at this point would take months. Typically, the promotions would be approved by a unanimous consent agreement or with a voice vote. Voting on them individually would consume the Senate floor and paralyze the body from being able to take up almost any other action, aides said.

At the end of September, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer took up a trio of high-profile military nominations on the floor including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of staff, after Republicans threatened to use a rarely deployed procedural tool to force the votes. Its possible Republicans could threaten that again as well.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
[Source]

Uramusashiya, a ramen restaurant chain in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, is offering lifetime passes for 300,000 yen ($1,995).

About the passes: The pass grants customers a free bowl of noodles on every visit to Uramusashiya restaurants. It even covers more expensive menu items like the eateries' 1,350-yen ($9) chashu ramen. In addition to ramen, the lifetime pass also allows for side orders of rice, which ordinarily cost 100 yen ($0.67).

The ramen restaurant also allows multiple visits on the same day, allowing for the pass to theoretically cover all meal expenses for life, except on Tuesdays when the restaurant is closed. According to Japan Today, the passes were quickly sold out within two days, primarily to regular customers.

Trending on NextShark: Watch: Carefree Asian dad sleeping on plane floor wins praise on TikTok

About Uramusashiya: Uramusashiya has branches in Chiba City near Nishi Chiba Station and Soga Station. The restaurant is known for its rich soy sauce and chicken stock broth.

This isn't the first time Uramusashi has offered such passes. They previously sold 100,000-yen (approximately $665) unlimited ramen passes to students.

Trending on NextShark: Ex-UCLA gymnastics star Katelyn Ohashi faces backlash for Halloween costume

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Honda, Toyota express skepticism about EVs amid industry downturn

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PHNOM PENH, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia exported 5.81 billion U.S. dollars worth of goods to other Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member countries in the first nine months of 2023, up 23.6 percent over the same period last year, said a Ministry of Commerce's report released on Thursday.

During the January-September period this year, Cambodia's top three export destinations under the RCEP agreement are Vietnam, China and Japan, the report said.

The Southeast Asian country shipped products worth 2.03 billion dollars to Vietnam, up 30.6 percent; 1.06 billion dollars to China, up 18.2 percent; and 885.7 million dollars to Japan, down 1.3 percent, the report added.

The RCEP free trade deal comprises 15 Asia-Pacific countries including 10 ASEAN member states - Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam - and their five trading partners, namely China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.

Cambodian Ministry of Commerce's Secretary of State and Spokesman Penn Sovicheat said RCEP, which came into force in 2022, has been a catalyst for the kingdom's export growth and has become a magnet to attract more foreign direct investment inflows to the ASEAN nation.

"The export growth indicated that the fellow RCEP countries are a potential market for made-in-Cambodia products," he told Xinhua.

Sovicheat said that with preferential tariffs provided under the RCEP agreement, there's no doubt that Cambodia's exports to other RCEP members will continue to rise throughout this year and next years.

"RCEP, together with other bilateral free trade agreements, will help Cambodia graduate from its least developed country status by 2027 and achieve its goals of becoming an upper-middle income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050," he said. 
A retired Army Lt. Col. blasted Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortezs accusations against Israel committing war crimes in an interview with Fox News Digital on Tuesday, saying members of Congress "bear an obligation to ensure that before they accuse soldiers and pilots" of committing said crimes, "they understand what the law is that dictates that accusation."

On Sunday, Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y. appeared on MSNBCs "The Mehdi Hasan Show" and insisted that she was not defending Hamas as she accused Israel of committing war crimes, and defended her position of calling for a ceasefire following Hamas attack against Israel on Oct. 7.

When asked whether Israel had a right to defend itself, she argued that "war crimes" are not the appropriate response.

"War crimes do not constitute and are not an appropriate response for other war crimes. Hamas hostage taking, their hostage taking of children, of the disabled, elderly civilians, are a war crime," Ocasio-Cortez said. "But when we are talking about the blockading of water, food, electricity to a population of 2.2 million Palestinians, it is unacceptable to think that 1,700 Palestinian children alone, that their deaths will somehow make up for, or justify, the violence of what we saw on Oct. 7."

AOC ACCUSES ISRAEL OF WAR CRIMES: HAMAS COMMITTED HORRIFIC ATTACKS, HOWEVER

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y.

The progressive "Squad" member went on to accuse Israel of committing an "indiscriminate bombing campaign" against Gaza and questioned the effectiveness of its recent actions.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

The congressional representative did not immediately respond to inquiries from Fox News Digital on the matter.

Ret. Army Lt. Col. Geoffrey S. Corn weighed in on Ocasio-Cortezs comments with Fox News Digital.

AOC BLAMES MUSLIM BOYS MURDER IN PART ON DESANTIS DESTRUCTIVE RHETORIC ON GAZA REFUGEES

Corn, who is the George R. Killam Jr. Chair of Criminal Law at Texas Tech University School of Law and previously served as the Gary A. Kuiper Distinguished Professor of National Security Law at South Texas College of Law in Houston after serving in the U.S. Army for 21 years as an officer, and retiring as a lieutenant colonel in 2004.

The bulk of Corns time in the Army was as a JAG officer, aka the Judge Advocate General's Corps. He is also an advisor for the Jewish Institute for National Security of America and has studied legal issues related to conflicts in Israel.

MICHAEL RAPAPORT RAILS AGAINST JEW HATERS TLAIB, OMAR, AOC: YOURE IN GOVERNMENT YOU MOTHERF---ERS!

Palestinians walk amid the rubble of destroyed and damaged buildings by Israeli airstrikes in the city center of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza, Oct. 10.

Corn said he understands why anyone would be sympathetic to the Palestinian population and the civilians in Gaza who are caught up in the conflict, as well as how images of combat destruction and casualties could evoke a sense of empathy.

But what he said he does not understand are those quick to judge and accuse Israel of war crimes without knowing the facts and circumstances related to the attacks.

After hearing the comments from the Ocasio-Cortez, Corn said, two things jumped out. The first thing was that she acknowledged the conduct of Hamas terrorists Oct. 7 were war crimes, yet failed to acknowledge that 8,000 rockets have been fired indiscriminately at Israel since that date.

"Every time one of those rockets is fired, it is a war crime because the law of war doesnt focus on whether you kill civilians. It focuses on the fact that youre trying to kill civilians," he said.

SQUAD REP. TLAIB IGNORES US INTEL ABOUT GAZA HOSPITAL, SIDES WITH HAMAS OVER BIDEN ADMIN

The second thing that jumped out is the characterization of the consequences of combat operations as collective punishment.

He said, "collective punishment" is a phrase being tossed around that is "simply erroneous," because it requires an intent to inflict collective suffering on the population because of something that happened to your forces.

"Collective consequences of combat is not the same thing as collective punishment, and the prohibition on collective punishment is more focused," Corn said.

He explained that during World War II, the Germans would have a soldier killed by the French resistance, and in retribution, they would round up 50 civilians and execute them as a collective sanction.

MEDIA ACCUSED OF PARROTING HAMAS' TALKING POINTS ON GAZA HOSPITAL BLAST, IDF SPOX SAYS TERROR GROUP LYING

Smoke plumes along the Gaza-Israel border on Oct. 7.

"Theres no indication that the Israeli military operations are directed for that purpose," Corn said. "Instead, theyre directed to destroy Hamas combat capability as a legitimate exercise of self-defense."

But the most troubling aspect, he said, of Ocasio-Cortezs accusation is that it is "factually and legally invalid."

"I think for somebody in a position of a member of Congress, they bear an obligation to ensure that before they accuse soldiers and pilots of committing war crimes, that they understand what the law is that dictates that accusation," Corn said. "The fact that civilian casualties are inflicted during combat operations does not prove the commission of war crimes."

Expanding on the subject, Corn said war crimes in combat are established by proving either that an attack was deliberately directed against civilians  which he said what Hamas has been doing, but not the IDF [Israel Defense Forces]  or that an attack on the military objective is conducted in a way that is inherently indiscriminate because the anticipated civilian harm will be excessive in relation to the anticipated military advantage derived from the attack.

Unless a person knows what the value of the target was, the efforts the IDF went through to verify the true nature of the target, the precautionary measures IDF implemented to mitigate civilian risk, the way Hamas abused the civilian population to shield the target from attack, and other factors, Corn said a person cannot make a credible accusation against Israel for committing war crimes.

"This is the problem of what I've called effects-based condemnations, where you look at the effects of an attack, and you immediately assume that the party that caused the destruction must have committed a war crime, and it's legally and factually invalid," he said. "Candidly, it's quite disappointing that a member of our Congress would make that allegation. And it also demeans the integrity and the honor of the IDF combatants who, in my opinion and based on my experience, are actually trying much harder than their enemy to take measures that mitigate the risks to the civilian population."

Fox News Digital's Lindsay Kornick contributed to this report.





Original article source: Retired Army legal expert blasts AOC's accusations against Israel for committing 'war crimes'
Richland 1 parents, teachers and some school board members expressed outrage Tuesday night over the districts sudden reassignment of elementary school teachers, with one calling the change inhumane.

Some parents used the word unconscionable to describe the districts actions, while others called the reassignments a Band-Aid on schools that are bleeding out teachers. Others simply asked the district for more transparency, and for the board to hold administrators accountable.

Board member Barbara Weston said teachers have been treated like cattle or sheep, herded from one place to the next within the district.

Now they are allowing their voices to be heard, Weston said.

Angry parents and others filled the Hopkins Middle School auditorium during Tuesday nights board meeting to condemn the districts transfers. Many did not fault the districts attempts to fill the needs of some district schools, but rather the way it was handled.

Last week, 11 Richland District 1 teachers were told, with little notice, that they would be reassigned to different schools. The district said the changes were needed because of understaffing at some schools.

The change caused many to take to social media to criticize the district, including for a lack of communication.

The school district said the 11 teachers have been reassigned from seven elementary school campuses: Brennen, Satchel Ford, Meadowfield, Watkins-Nance, Logan, Bradley and Hyatt Park. These teachers have been moved to eight other elementary schools because of understaffing: E.E. Taylor, Watkins-Nance, H.B. Rhame, Caughman Road, Burton-Pack, Forest Heights, Mill Creek and W.S. Sandel.

Emily Luther, a parent of a student affected by the abrupt shuffle, said that when parents expressed concerns, they were met with unresponsive platitudes. Parents wondered why an alternative solution couldnt have been explored before the teachers were moved.

I am thankful that I have the benefit of a very resilient 5-year-old ... but I think that it is a terrible position for a school district to be in, that they are relying on the resiliency of children, Luther said. District administration has demonstrated that they hold their teachers and their families in little regard.

A crowd of parents, teachers and community members fill the Hopkins Middle School auditorium for the Richland School District 1 board meeting on October 24, 2023.

Richland 1 officials said that the decision to move teachers was made after the 45th day of school, when the district had a clearer picture of student enrollment at each of its schools. The moves were based on student-teacher ratios. Despite the change, the district assured parents that moving teachers around is a common practice that happens every year. The district transferred 7 teachers in 2022, and 10 in 2021.

We have to provide equity, balance and access in the district, Kalu Kalu, the districts director of certified employee services, said at Tuesdays meeting.

According to the district, teachers were given a five-day transition period to acclimate and prepare for their reassignments. However, it is unclear when that transition period began.

The majority of the teachers were notified of their transfer Oct. 18, the day before the districts fall break.

Given the utter lack of notice the teachers were provided, the lack of notice principals were provided on either end of this reassignment spectrum, and the way that teachers were spoken to ... if we ignore that now we will lose more teachers, said board member Robert Lominack.

Administration said the 11 teachers were the extent of the districts teacher transfers, but Lominack expressed frustration with the presentation, and questioned its accuracy. He pointed out that Southeast Middle School lost a teacher, which was not included in the districts data.

Kalu called it an oversight.

Parents and teachers werent the only ones to disapproved of Richland 1 Tuesday night.

Patrick Kelly, director of government affairs for the Palmetto State Teachers Association, said Richland 1s teacher reassignments were not a failure of intent, but a failure of implementation.

It is unfathomable that student enrollment projections were so off the mark they necessitated personnel reassignments of this scope and scale at such a late date, Kelly said. It is unprofessional and inhumane to have the first time staff learn about reassignments in their building be from a local news report.

State Rep. Heather Bauer, D-Richland, attended Tuesdays meeting too.

Our kids in our district are suffering, and the root cause of all this comes down to the board, administration and leadership, Bauer said. The manner in which this has been done is so disrespectful to teachers, students and our children ... if this is how you treat your teachers in public, I cannot imagine what has happened behind closed doors.

Ellen Weaver, state superintendent of education, submitted an op-ed to The State that criticized the district for its handling of the transfers. She noted that she and Gov. Henry McMaster can ask for a state inspector generals investigation of the district if they are presented evidence of potential malfeasance. She also said she can take over the district or individual schools for academic under-performance.

The state department has already put the district on fiscal watch, Weaver pointed out.

The seemingly sudden shift of several teachers between schools has raised hard questions in our community about the districts personnel practices, communication, and leadership, Weaver wrote.

The superintendent acknowledged the headwinds district leaders face across South Carolina, but said that school leadership is responsible for approaching difficult situations with compassion and consideration for teachers, students and parents.

A school isnt just a building a student walks into every day. It is an intentional and deeply interconnected community of students, families, educators, staff, and volunteers, Weaver wrote. And when poorly communicated decisions disrupt this ecosystem, trust is broken and ultimately, it is students who suffer.
Rising property values don't always mean rising property taxes. Finding out how much the reappraisals will cost you, however, is easier in some counties.

Property values across Ohio have soared, based on the letters homeowners received earlier this year from their local auditors.

The question on the minds of voters this November as they decide on levies: Will their taxes also soar?

It depends on where you live. And some counties do a better job than others of answering that.

The Enquirer posed that question to Hamilton County Auditor Brigid Kelly, who responded that the impact on each individual's property taxes is unknowable until December when the state will issue final home values.

"People can best determine their new tax bills when they get their final values in December when we know the disposition of levies, and after the state has determined effective rates," Kelly, a Democrat elected last year, wrote in an email to The Enquirer.

Other county auditors have attempted to answer that question even though there are still many factors yet to be determined. (More on those factors later.)

The upshot: A big increase in property value doesn't often mean a big increase in property taxes.

Why has this year caused particular concern?

The booming housing market sparked a historic rise in property values across Ohio. That led to sticker shock among homeowners in Hamilton, Butler and Clermont counties when they received their new tentative assessments from the county auditors this summer.

Those are the three counties in Greater Cincinnati up for reappraisal this year. Each saw property values rise countywide between 23% to 38%.

What is a reappraisal?

County auditors conduct a full reappraisal of properties every six years for tax purposes and update each appraisal every three years based on market data. The 2023 appraisal in Hamilton County is the full reappraisal, which includes the auditor's staff viewing the outside of properties as well as using market data. Butler and Clermont counties had the three-year update.

Counties have to use guidance provided by Ohio's Tax Commissioner. The commissioner issues recommended property valuation increases for counties using the last year of its home sale data.

Auditors try to quell fears

Kelly and others have tried to quell fears people have about how much their taxes will go up. They've repeated the mantra that a 10% increase in property values doesn't mean a 10% increase in taxes. People, however, are left to speculate on what it'll mean for their individual taxes.

"The bad news is, we can't give them a simple formula," Kelly said at a recent meeting of the Hamilton County commissioners. "And we can't give them any kind of estimate until we know the final values of the effective rates and disposition in December."

Some auditors around the state, however, have tried to answer that question.

How did Franklin and Clermont counties answer residents' questions?

At least two Ohio counties allow property owners to estimate what their new tax bill will cost based on the latest appraisals, Franklin County in the Columbus area and Clermont County in the suburbs east of Cincinnati.

Residents in those counties can type in their addresses on a county-run website to get an estimate of how much their new tax bill will cost. Both calculators have a litany of caveats the calculator can't take into account, such as whether property tax levies will get passed in November, the final assessments from the state in December and other factors.

A message to the office of Clermont County auditor Linda Fraley, a Republican, wasn't returned. In Franklin County, auditor staff took a year to create the database after the previous reappraisal in 2020, Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano told The Enquirer. It's called "Know Your Home Value."

Three years ago, the two most frequent questions he received were: "How much would my property value increase?" and "How would that affect my taxes?"

"It's been a helpful tool to show people, instead of me just explaining to people, your value can go up and your taxes could go down, your value could go down and your taxes could go up," said Stinziano, a Democrat. "That's why we created it."

The Franklin County calculator also allows people to put in a specific tax levy.

Clermont County has put a similar tool on the auditor's website under the "2023 Triennial Update" link. It takes you to a map where property owners can look up their property.

What do Hamilton County and other counties have?

Hamilton County and Butler County auditors have a field on their webpage that can calculate the taxes based on the previous valuation. It doesn't try to predict how the new valuations will impact taxes. Hamilton County doesn't provide that.

For Hamilton County, the calculator is not easy to find. It's an empty field on each property report under the tax distribution tab.

Kelly, in an email to The Enquirer, said they will consider developing an estimator similar to Franklin County's.

"We do not have an estimator planned for this cycle, but are considering it for the future," Kelly wrote.

Butler County's auditor has put a link to its tax calculator on its home page, but, like Hamilton County, it doesn't take into account the raised property values throughout the community.

What do the estimates show?

By typing in some sample properties in Franklin and Clermont counties, it showed a large jump in property value resulted in a much smaller increase in taxes  or even resulted in a decrease.

For instance, a house valued at $405,600 in the Northmoor neighborhood of Columbus went up in value 32%, but the taxes on the property could end up going up 1% or down 9%, according to the estimator.

In Clermont County, a home in Union Township at $321,000 went up in value 20%, but the taxes are projected to go up 7%, according to the calculator.

A wide disparity between the increase in property values and the increase in taxes is not unusual.

During the last reappraisal in 2020, residential property values in Hamilton County went up 14% while the average property tax bill went up 6%, according to the Hamilton County auditor and treasurer.

In 2020 in Franklin County, property values increased 20% while the average tax bill increased 7%, according to the Franklin County auditor.

Why do other people's rising values help keep taxes low?

When other people's property value rises, that helps keep your individual taxes low. State law limits most property taxes to bring in a set amount.

For instance, in Hamilton County, the levy that pays for the Cincinnati Zoo brings in $7 million annually. That means no matter how much more property is worth, the levy will still just bring in $7 million.

So the more valuable Hamilton County property becomes, the lower the zoo tax rate for the individual.

What part of the bill actually goes up?

Since the law limits most property taxes to a fixed sum, an increased home value impacts a small portion of one's tax bill, about 1%, according to officials.

This is the first 10-mills of a property tax bill. Mills are the measurement by which Ohio governments calculate levies. They're one-thousandth of a dollar or $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value. A home is taxed on 35% of the appraised value.

Based on Ohio law, the first 10 mills of a property tax bill can't be voted on or taken away, so they go up and down with property values. It accounts for a small portion of the property tax bill. So the increases usually are minimal.

In some areas, certain school districts have a 20-mill floor that goes up and down with taxes. In those areas, property valuations can have a bigger impact.

What does that mean in terms of taxes?

If your property rises in proportion to the surrounding jurisdiction, your taxes will likely remain the same or could even go down. If your property increases much higher than other properties in the jurisdiction, say 30% compared to 10% countywide, then your taxes will go up.

Why is it so difficult to answer?

Because each property is in many different property tax jurisdictions with different rates and millage. There are 117 different taxing districts in Hamilton County, 65 in Butler County and 140 in Franklin County.

So each property is different. And while some properties could see a few percentage point increase or decrease, others, such as those in Middletown in Butler County, could see much higher tax bills. Property values in this working-class town shot up 40% and, because of the specific types of taxes in place, could have tax bills go up 20%.

"So even for some neighbors, it's different, one side of the street to the other, the impact of a value increase to their taxes," Stinziano said. "That's why people voting is so important."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: How much will rising property values impact my property taxes?
A married couple who consider themselves long-time loyal customers of Ritz-Carlton hotels say they were served a water bottle defiled with semen during one of their stays in November 2022.

According to a new federal lawsuit, a Ritz-Carlton employee brought several water bottles, including a contaminated one, to the couples room at the Half Moon Bay resort in northern California, where they stayed to visit their daughter who studied at a nearby university.

When the woman, who was also celebrating her birthday that weekend, drank one of the bottles as her husband slept, she immediately thought something was wrong with the taste and woke him up, a complaint filed Oct. 12 in federal court says.

She told him she suspected the water was chemically-contaminated before realizing the taste was similar to semen, according to the complaint.

Unbeknownst to (them), one the hotels employees ejaculated his semen into a Ritz-Carlton labeled water bottle, the complaint says.

After hotel management was alerted and the San Mateo Sheriffs Office responded, the complaint says the womans suspicions about the water were confirmed by laboratory testing ordered by the Ritz-Carlton.

Now the couple, only identified as Jane and John Doe, are suing the luxury hotel brand and its parent company, Marriott International Inc. The defendants are accused of hiring and employing a sexual deviant.

The couple seeks damages exceeding $75,000 the complaint shows.

A hotel spokesperson declined a request for comment from McClatchy News on Oct. 26, as the hotel does not comment on pending litigation.

McClatchy News also contacted the San Mateo Sheriffs Office for comment on Oct. 26 and didnt receive an immediate response.

According to the complaint, someone from the sheriffs office responded to the Half Moon Bay resort in November 2022 and spoke with the woman regarding the water bottle.

Sheriffs Office Sgt. Javier Acosta confirmed to The Mercury News that its department conducted a welfare check at the hotel and offered the woman to be seen by a poison control center, which she refused.

Acosta told the outlet the department did not carry out an investigation into the matter.

Attorney Terrence Matthew Jones, who is representing the couple, of Cameron Jones LLP law firm based in Beverly Hills, told McClatchy News on Oct. 26 that one of his clients main concerns is that this deviant is caught so that no one else is victimized.

Thus far, the Ritz-Carlton and Marriott have been more concealing than cooperative, obviously to try to protect their reputation rather than their hotel guests, Jones said.

According to the complaint, the Ritz-Carlton sent the water bottle to a lab for testing but has not provided the couple with the test results.

On Jan. 12, a Marriott International claims adjustor spoke with the woman over the phone and said the lab results revealed that the fluid in the water bottle had been defiled with semen, the complaint says.

The complaint further accuses the Ritz-Carlton and Marriott of withholding the contaminated water bottle from police  preventing a law enforcement investigation  and failing to help figure out who was responsible for the incident.

The Ritz-Carlton refused to cooperate with law enforcements investigation to identify and apprehend the assailant, and refused to compensate Jane and John Doe for the sexual assault beyond offering them a few measly Marriott rewards points  which, of course, could only be used for another anxiety-inducing stay at a Ritz-Carlton property, the complaint says.

Half Moon Bay is about 30 miles south of San Francisco.

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Robert Card, the gunman in the mass shooting Wednesday that killed 18 people and left another 13 injured at two locations in Lewiston, Maine, has been found dead, multiple law enforcement sources told CBS News on Friday night.

He fled in the aftermath of the shootings, police said, and law enforcement launched a manhunt involving hundreds of state and local officers and at least 80 FBI agents. There was an arrest warrant out for him for multiple counts of murder.

Officials said Saturday that the gunman's body was found in the overflow parking lot at the Maine Recycling Corporation, in the back of a tractor-trailer. While authorities had twice earlier searched the business, where the gunman worked at some point, Mike Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, said they had not searched the overflow lot. The owner of the property had contacted police, Sauschuck said, asking them to check.

Card was 40 years old and from Bowdoin, Maine, a town near Lewiston, officials said. He was described as being 5'11" tall and weighing 230 pounds. Card was a military reservist and had a history of mental health issues, records show.

Authorities shared several images and asked anyone with information to contact law enforcement. The Lewiston Police Department released photos on social media that showed the gunman holding a semiautomatic rifle at one of the shooting scenes Wednesday night, wearing a brown shirt, dark pants and light shoes.

Sauschuck said Saturday that the first three people to contact authorities to identify the man in photos released of the gunman were members of his family.

Robert Card was named as a suspect in the mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine. / Credit: Maine State Police

Card attended the University of Maine as an engineering student but it was unknown whether he graduated from the school, CBS Boston reported. His last known address was in Bowdoin.

He also had connections to Massachusetts, sources told CBS News Boston, but the exact nature of his ties to Massachusetts was not immediately clear. During the manhunt, Massachusetts State Police were stationed at the Maine border along with federal agents. Officers were also stationed along the Maine border and the New Hampshire border as a precaution.

Military background

Card was enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve and had an active military ID, which gave him access to any military base, according to a Maine law enforcement bulletin seen by CBS News. Officials previously said Card was a firearms instructor in the Army Reserve stationed in Saco, Maine, but later said that was not the case.

A U.S. Army spokesperson told CBS News on Thursday that Card enlisted in the reserves in December 2002 and served as a petroleum supply specialist.

He had no combat deployments, the spokesperson said. Card had received a number of awards for his service, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

Mental health history

Card recently reported experiencing mental health issues, including hearing voices, and threatened to shoot up a military base in Saco, the law enforcement bulletin said. He was also reported to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over this past summer, according to the bulletin.

In mid-July, leaders of the U.S. Army Reserve's 3rd battalion told garrison staff that Card was "behaving erratically," a spokesperson for the New York Army National Guard said in a statement to CBS News on Thursday. The battalion was staying at the Camp Smith training site in Cortlandt while training at the U.S. Military Academy.

"Out of concern for his safety, the unit requested that law enforcement be contacted," the spokesperson said in the statement. "New York State Police responded and transported Card to Keller Army Community Hospital at the United States Military Academy for medical evaluation."

One of Card's cousins, Michael Mercier, told CBS News Boston that Card had "a lot going on in his head" and called him a "schizophrenic."

Gunman's access to firearms

The brand of the semiautomatic weapon used in the shooting was not immediately known, but officials described it as an assault rifle with an extended magazine and scope. The firearm found in the suspect's abandoned car was legally purchased, a law enforcement source confirmed.

Investigators have recovered multiple firearms from his residence, in addition to the gun found in his vehicle, a law enforcement source told CBS News.

Maine has a "yellow flag" law, which was passed in 2019 and states that police can "temporarily remove guns from people deemed to pose a threat to themselves or others"  but CBS Portland affiliate WGME explains it requires a two-step sign off from both a judge and a medical provider before weapons can be taken away,

Authorities have not confirmed if a "yellow flag" report was ever filed for Card.

Maine Sen. Susan Collins said during a Thursday night press conference, "The yellow flag law should have been triggered," and that Card "should have been separated from his weapons."

Collins said she's sure after the fact that "this will be looked at very closely."

Questions about motive

A note found at Card's home in Maine was being described as a possible suicide note, addressed to his son, according to current and former U.S. officials familiar with the note.

Investigators are looking into whether the suspect was targeting a specific individual, who is believed to be a current or former girlfriend, two U.S. officials and a former high-ranking official told CBS News. It wasn't clear if the individual was at either of the two locations that were attacked.

Law enforcement intelligence officials confirm reports that the end of the relationship was "a significant destabilizing event" for Card. However, they also point out that he had "for months" been threatening to kill people, so the exact motive and triggers are still very much under investigation.

What happened in Lewiston?

The shootings began just before 7 p.m. on Wednesday night, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said at a news conference. Authorities said they responded to Schemengees Bar and Grille, a local restaurant, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, which are about 10 minutes by car from each other.

Authorities said Thursday that seven people were killed at the bowling alley  one woman and six men  and eight people, all of whom were men, were killed at the bar and grill, with seven found inside the restaurant and one outside. All of them died from apparent gunshot wounds, Colonel William Ross, with the Maine State Police, said.

Ross said three more people died from their injuries while being transported to hospitals.

Police stand on Oct. 26, 2023, by the scene with an evidence bag in the parking lot of Schemengees Bar and Grille which was the scene of a mass shooting the night prior in Lewiston, Maine. / Credit: John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

"We cannot and we will not rest in this endeavor," said Maine Gov. Janet Mills. Mills said she spoke with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in the wake of the shootings.

The police chief in Lisbon, Maine, near Lewiston, also urged the public to report anything that might seem suspicious in their neighborhoods.

Heavily armed police stand at the ambulance entrance to the Central Maine Medical Center on Oct. 26, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine, where many of the shooting victims were brought. / Credit: John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

State Police said a "vehicle of interest" was recovered by police in Lisbon. The vehicle matched a description of a vehicle that Card was known to have been driving following the shooting, a 2013 white Subaru Outback with a black bumper.

The car was found near a boat launch on the Androscoggin River, which flows into the Kennebec River, authorities said Thursday.

An underwater search of the river and shoreline began on Friday, authorities said at a news conference.

According to a law enforcement bulletin, Card has two other vehicles registered to him: a 2022 Yamaha motorcycle and a 2019 Sea Doo green boat. Both are registered in Maine.

CBS News learned that U.S. Coast Guard crews out of Boothbay Harbor have been searching waterways for his boat, focusing on the northern shore of the river  one of the areas law enforcement is probing in their manhunt.

The Sagadahoc County Sheriff's Office, in Bath, said they have had "interactions" with Card in the past, CBS affiliate WGME reported.

No sightings of Card were reported after Wednesday night, authorities said.

CBS News' Pat Milton, Andy Triay and Rob Legare contributed reporting.

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On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in several locations. Police scrambled to find the shooter, advising residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old man, was the person of interest in the shootings that claimed dozens of lives at a Lewiston bar and bowling alley.

Heres what we know so far.

Who is Robert Card?

After identifying Robert Card as the person of interest, the sheriffs office made photos of him public for identification. He could be seen in the images wearing brown clothes and brandishing a high-powered assault-style rifle.

The law enforcement also unveiled a picture of the vehicle under investigation  a compact white SUV featuring a front bumper painted black. It was a car that the Maine State Police confirmed as belonging to the shooter.

As of 9pm local time on Wednesday evening, the shooter remained at large.

City councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN that the death toll reached 22. My understanding is that they have a tentative identification... of the shooter at the bowling alley, confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured, he said.

John Miller, chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst for CNN, described the weapon as an AR15-style rifle with a possible telescopic sight. He noted that the gunman was wearing blue tactical pants with bulging pockets, suggesting the possibility that he was carrying extra ammunition.

The person of interest, Card, should be considered armed and dangerous, police said.

As per law enforcement reports, Card served as a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve. He recently disclosed mental health issues, citing experiences of auditory hallucinations including hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, according to a Maine law enforcement bulletin seen by the Associated Press.

He was also committed to a mental health facility for two weeks during the summer of 2023. According to a report by Macra, Card has a history of arrests for domestic violence and other crimes.

Where did the incidents occur?

Police, fire and rescue personnel first descended on Sparetime Recreation on Mollison Way, in Lewiston, about 7.15pm local time after a report of an active shooter, according to Maine newspaperThe Sun Journal.

Shortly afterwards, reports circulated online that another incident had taken place at a local bar and restaurant  Schemengees  on nearby Lincoln Street.

Around an hour after the first police activity, Lewiston public information officer Derrick St Laurent told The Sun Journal that another shooting had been reported at the Walmart Distribution Center on Alfred A Plourde Parkway.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs office later released two pictures of the person of interest entering a bowling alley  appearing to confirm reports on the first location.

What happened in the initial aftermath?

Video shared online showed multiple police vehicles in the local area.

A message put out online by Maine State Police advised members of the public to shelter in place.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, the force said.

If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.

A text sent out by Lewiston Public Schools urged anyone near or at the school for conferences to get in a safe place.

We are going into lockdown. I will provide more information as it is available and appropriate, the alert read.

How many people have been shot?

The number of people shot was not immediately clear, though the Central Maine Medical Center said it was responding to a mass casualty event. Later, officials said the death toll rose to 22.

Central Maine Medical Center is reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event. At this time there are no specifics to share on the number of casualties, the hospital wrote in an online statement.

Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

NBC News said that at least 22 people had been killed.

ABC News reported that 16 people had been killed, with dozens more injured. The outlet cited law enforcement sources who have been briefed on the shooting.

CNN sources said that there had been 16 fatalities and that between 50 and 60 people had been wounded.

How is Lewiston dealing with the tragedy?

Local schools have announced they will cancel classes on Thursday.

There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate, Lewiston Public Schools said.

Stay close to your loved ones. Embrace them. Our prayers go out to those who lost someone tonight. Our prayers go out to all those working to stop further loss of life.

Town offices in Lisbon, which neighbours Lewiston, will also be closed on Thursday, it was reported.
At least 18 people were killed and 13 more injured following a shooting in Lewiston, Maine, which took place at two locations on Wednesday night, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said Thursday morning.

The Lewiston Police Department identified Robert R. Card of Bowdoin, Maine, as a person of interest in a Wednesday night Facebook post. On Thursday morning, Card was considered a suspect after authorities issued an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder, law enforcement said.

Card, 40, is being sought after the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just in Time Bowling, which was recently renamed from Sparetime Recreation. He should be considered "armed and dangerous," and authorities asked the public to contact law enforcement about his whereabouts.

A Maine law enforcement bulletin shared with Fox News Digital states that Card is a "trained firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve stationed out of Saco, ME."

ACTIVE SHOOTER SITUATION IN MAINE, HOSPITAL SAYS 'MASS CASUALTY, MASS SHOOTER' EVENT

The Lewiston, Maine, Police Department released a photo of the suspect, who was seen wearing a brown sweatshirt.

An Army spokesperson confirmed to Fox News on Thursday morning that Card has been in the Army Reserve for over two decades, receiving multiple awards for his service.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"Sgt. 1st Class Robert R. Card II is a Petroleum Supply Specialist in the Army Reserve, enlisting in December 2002. He has no combat deployments," Army spokesperson Bryce Dubee said.

"His awards include the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal x2, Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon."

The Maine bulletin also states that Card recently reported mental health issues, including "hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, ME." No details about his treatment or condition were immediately provided.

Police said that the active shooter situation spanned two locations  Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant and Just in Time Bowling, which was recently renamed from Sparetime Recreation.

According to the document, Card was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over the summer before he was released.

Fox News' David Spunt reported, citing a senior law enforcement source, that authorities are aware Card may have a police scanner and could be actively listening to some of their movements.

He should be considered "armed and dangerous," according to the law enforcement bulletin.

The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two photos of the suspect involved in the active shooting situation in Maine.

Card studied engineering at the University of Maine from 2001 to 2004, a school representative said.

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Card's white Subaru Outback was found near the Lisbon boat dock on Frost Hill Avenue near Route 196, authorities said.

Card's white Subaru Outback was found near the Lisbon boat dock on Frost Hill Avenue near Route 196, authorities said.

The Central Maine Medical Center said in a statement it is reacting to a "mass casualty, mass shooter event," but couldn't state the number of victims.

Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque confirmed on NBC's "Today" that the bowling alley was hosting a youth league at the time of the shooting.

Police are seen in Lewiston, Maine, where a mass shooting took place on Wednesday night.

Pictures shared by the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office show the suspect wearing a brown sweatshirt and holding a rifle.

Residents of Lewiston were told to "shelter in place" and to "stay inside your home with the doors locked." Maine State Police later said that the shelter in place advisory and school closures expanded to the town of Bowdoin.

In a post on X, FBI Boston said it is coordinating with local and state law enforcement.

Police are seen in Lewiston, Maine, where a mass shooting took place on Wednesday night.

"The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Maine, and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance," FBI Boston wrote in an X post. "We continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any and all suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately. As this situation is still very fluid, we have no further comment at this time and will refer you to the Maine State Police."

Fox News' Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, Jacqui Heinrich and Liz Friden contributed to this report.





Original article source: Who is Robert Card? Maine authorities identify suspect in deadly shooting rampage
As the manhunt in Maine intensifies for Robert Card, a suspect in a mass shooting at two locations in Lewiston, state and local authorities are asking the public for tips to help lead to his capture.

Card, 40, is being sought after at least 18 people were killed and 13 more were wounded in shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just in Time Bowling, Maine Gov. Janet Mills and law enforcement officials said at a Thursday morning press conference.

Communities across the state remain under shelter-in-place advisories, while schools and college campuses have closed and canceled classes Thursday. Authorities warned the public that Card is considered armed and dangerous, and should not be approached.

Here is how you can contact authorities with information about Card or the shooting:

LIVE UPDATES: SEVERAL DEAD IN LEWISTON, MAIN MASS SHOOTING

Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two photos of the alleged person of interest involved in Maine.

Lewiston Police: Call 513-3001 ext. 3327

Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office: email dispatch@androscoggincountymaine.gov

Maine State Police: Call 207.213.9526 or 207.509.9002

WHO IS ROBERT CARD: MAINE AUTHORITIES IDENTIFY PERSON OF INTEREST IN DEADLY SHOOTING RAMPAGE

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Card is a "trained firearms instructor" and recently reported mental health issues, including "hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, ME," according to a Maine law enforcement bulletin shared with Fox News Digital.

Lewiston Police have stated that Robert Card is a person of interest in a mass shooting on Wednesday.

He was also reportedly committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over the summer.

The two locations where the alleged active shooter, Robert Card

Army spokesperson Bryce Dubee confirmed to Fox News on Thursday morning that Card has been in the Army Reserve for over two decades and has received multiple awards for his service, including the Humanitarian Service Medal.

"Sgt. 1st Class Robert R. Card II is a Petroleum Supply Specialist in the Army Reserve, enlisting in December 2002. He has no combat deployments," Dubee said.

FBI Boston said in a statement on X that they are coordinating with state and local law enforcement, and ready to assist when needed.

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in Maine, and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance. We continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any and all suspicious activity and/or individuals to law enforcement immediately. As this situation is still very fluid, we have no further comment at this time and will refer you to the Maine State Police," the bureau wrote.





Original article source: Robert Card manhunt: Maine police calling on public for tips after at least 18 killed in mass shooting
A handout image released on October 25, 2023 by police shows Robert Card, wanted for murder in a shooting rampage in Maine (-)

Robert Card, a 40-year-old soldier in the US Army Reserve, is suspected of gunning down 18 people in a small town in the northern state of Maine.

The shooting -- which targeted a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston on Wednesday night -- is one of the deadliest since 2017, when a gunman opened fire on a crowded music festival in Las Vegas, killing 60 people.

Authorities have issued a warrant to arrest Card for murder, Colonel William Ross of the Maine State Police told a press conference Thursday, adding that he is considered "armed and dangerous" and warning people not to approach him.

The Lewiston police department released images of a bearded man dressed in a brown hoodie and blue cargo pants and armed with an assault rifle.

Card is a certified firearms instructor, according to multiple law enforcement sources.

The US Army provided details on Card's military service, saying he enlisted in December 2002 and is a sergeant first class in the Army Reserve with "no combat deployments."

"The Army did not train SFC Card as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army," a spokesman said in a statement.

- 'Mental health issues' -

Card is a Petroleum Supply Specialist, which entails supplying the Army "with the fuel it needs to maintain a state of readiness at all times," according to a US military career website.

"You'll supervise and manage the reception, storage, and shipping of bulk or packaged petroleum-based products. You'll oversee its use, dispense it to various vehicles and aircraft, and make sure it is being transported and handled safely," it says.

According to ABC News, Card spent two weeks at a mental health facility earlier this year after allegedly threatening to carry out a shooting at a National Guard facility.

NBC News also referred to a threat to a National Guard installation, citing a law enforcement bulletin as saying Card "recently reported mental health issues to include hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base" in Saco, Maine.

Officials at Thursday's press conference would not elaborate on the reports, however, saying they did not yet know the motive behind the killings.

Maine resident Liam Kent told NBC that he grew up near Card and his family, who he described as "gun fanatics."

"They for all intents and purposes are very much associated with right-wing militias. It's known in the town to stay away from them and to not approach them," Kent said.

wd/acb
A family of 10 from Greater Manchester who are stuck in Gaza are pleading with the British Government to help them escape.

The Al-Attar family from Rochdale arrived two days before Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October, prompting a bombardment of Gaza.

The family have fled to the border crossing with Egypt and have been posting videos online.

The Foreign Office has been contacted for a comment.

Zaynab Al-Wandawi, her sister-in-law Ikram, plus her husband, his mother and his seven brothers are at the Rafah crossing near Egypt.

"Every single day we are bombarded with bombs, and each one we hear we think 'who did that kill?'," said Zaynab.

"We have contacted the British embassy to see if they get their own citizens out but with no success.

"No more bombs please get us home."

The Al-Attar family thought they were safe in Khan Yunis in the south of Gaza, where the Israelis told people in the north to flee to for safety.

But they are now at the Rafah crossing, trying to get into Egypt, with thousands of others.

Gaza has been bombed repeatedly since the 7 October attack

The prime minister and foreign secretary are said to have been pushing for the release and safe passage of British subject trapped or being held hostage in Gaza.

The family's MP Tony Lloyd said: "I would like the Foreign Office to give them every help to get home."

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has yet to respond to a request for a comment.

However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak spelled out the government's position on Wednesday, saying: "We do want British nationals to leave leave Gaza and we want hostages to be released, but there have to be specific pauses for this to happen."

Ikram Al-Attar, a student at the University of Manchester, pleaded: "Please help call for a ceasefire - no more bombs, no more children need to die."

Why not follow BBC North West on Facebook, X and Instagram? You can also send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk
CAIRO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Nine Arab countries called Thursday on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to oblige the warring parties in the Gaza Strip to an immediate and sustainable cease-fire.

The call came in a joint press statement by the foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Morocco.

The nine countries condemned targeting civilians, all acts of violence against them, and all violations and transgressions of international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, by any party.

They also condemned and rejected attempts at individual or collective forced displacement, as well as the policy of collective punishment.

The Arab foreign ministers also underscored the importance of immediately releasing hostages and civilian detainees, emphasizing the role of the International Committee of the Red Cross in this regard.

The ministers demanded the UNSC to ensure and facilitate rapid, safe and sustainable access for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip without obstacles in accordance with relevant humanitarian principles, and to mobilize additional resources in cooperation with the UN and its affiliates.

They expressed deep concern about the possibility of the current confrontations and conflict to expand to other regions in the Middle East, calling on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint.

They also cautioned about the escalation of violence in the West Bank, calling on the international community to support and strengthen the Palestinian National Authority, and provide financial support to the Palestinian people.

In addition, the top Arab diplomats highlighted international efforts to implement the two-state solution on the basis of relevant United Nations resolutions.

The Israel-Hamas conflict, as it entered the 20th day, has killed around 7,028 Palestinians in Gaza and at least 1,400 people in Israel, according to official figures from both sides. 
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has said that a system to counter drones has already been established on the border with Ukraine.

Source: European Pravda, citing Digi24

Details: "The system of countering drones is in position, as they say, and it works. We already have equipment to fight drones," he said.

The Romanian president said that improvements to the entire system are ongoing to prevent incidents involving the fall of drones used by Russia to attack Ukraine's south.

Iohannis added that the radars are now able to detect targets at much lower altitudes than before.

"You know, the problem before was that radars could only detect targets above 600 metres. Now this level is much lower, almost the ground level," he explained.

The Romanian Defence Ministry previously concluded that the drones that fell on Romanian territory accidentally. They were Russian drones shot down by Ukraine's air defence.

At the end of September, it was reported that due to the drone incidents, Romania was moving its air defence systems closer to its villages on the Danube River bordering Ukraine.

The media also reported that Romania will soon receive a modern drone defence system.

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The Royal Oak Farmers Market had quite the eerie and ghostly vibe to it Wednesday evening with crystals, fortunetelling, tarot readings and more. The Halloween Spooktacular Psychic & Holistic Night featured over 40 psychics, mediums, energy healers and vendors with a large range of products and services, according to organizers.

Psychic reader Valerie Robinson of Bloomfield Hills, right, performs a healing process on Joanne McLane of New Baltimore during the Psychic and Holistic Spooktacular at Royal Oak Farmers Market in Royal Oak on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.

Attendees got a free crystal, a chance to consult psychics and others who specialize in the paranormal, get a tarot card or Turkish coffee reading or learn about the Aetherius Society, which focuses on extraterrestrial life.

Bracelets made by DerbyGems during the Psychic and Holistic Spooktacular at Royal Oak Farmers Market in Royal Oak on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.

More: Where to watch spooky movies this Halloween season in metro Detroit

More: Top 5 most haunted places in Michigan, according to 'Haunted Travels' author

More: Spooky season: Here's the most popular Halloween candy in Michigan

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Royal Oak Farmers Market hosts spooky, fun night
Shelby has since been rehomed, the RSPCA said

A woman who beat a puppy with a riding crop has been banned from keeping animals for 10 years.

Milly Beth Turnham was filmed throwing the dog called Shelby into a room, before carrying out what the RSPCA described as a "prolonged attack".

Turnham's partner filmed the attack at their home in Bridgwater, Somerset, and uploaded it to Facebook.

Vet Dr David Martin said Shelby "clearly suffered extreme fear and distress".

Warning - this story contains details and a picture of animal abuse which readers may find distressing.

The tri-coloured collie was six months old at the time of the attack, on 1 April 2022.

When the footage was seen by the RSPCA, Turnham, 23, was investigated and prosecuted.

Dr Martin said: "The video shows an extreme level of violence.

"In addition to the physical suffering the dog has clearly suffered extreme fear and distress as a result of being thrown and beaten and this will have long-term implications for the dog's health and welfare."

Turnham, who admitted an animal welfare offence relating to the attack on Shelby, also admitted causing unnecessary suffering to a second dog, a husky called Joker, which was left severely malnourished when she failed to provide adequate nutrition.

Footage of Turnham beating the dog was uploaded to Facebook

Turnham appeared at Highbury Magistrates' Court on 13 October after the case was moved from Taunton Magistrates', as Shelby now lives in Ponders End in Enfield, London.

Alongside the 10-year disqualification order, which she can not appeal to be lifted for five years, Turnham was handed a 16-week prison term, suspended for one year, and 20 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.

The RSPCA said Joker was rehomed prior to the charity getting involved, and Shelby had "since found a happy new home".

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A day after new North Carolina election maps became law, a Democrat and Republican are already vying for a new Senate seat in southern Wake County.

One candidate is the Democratic senator drawn out of her current district in northern Raleigh, and the other is the Republican local official who sued House Speaker Tim Moore over the breakup of the officials marriage.

Republicans placed state Sen. Lisa Grafstein , a Raleigh Democrat, in the same district as another lawmaker, or double-bunked them, in the new state Senate map that passed the General Assembly on Wednesday. So shes moving to a different district to run in 2024  a newly drawn state Senate District 13 in southern Wake County. Shes the only declared Democratic primary candidate so far.

Republican Scott Lassiter announced his run for the new Senate seat hours after the maps became law. Lassiter is a former Apex Town Council member, and he sued Moore earlier this year for alienation of affection for having a sexual relationship with Lassiters wife, Jamie Liles Lassiter.

The lawsuit ended a few weeks after it was filed, with both sides saying only that it was resolved. The lawsuit also alleged that Moore traded political favors for sexual favors. Moore acknowledged what he told The News & Observer was an on-again, off-again relationship with Liles Lassiter, saying he thought she was separated from her husband. Moore has been divorced for several years.

The North Carolina state Senate map passed by the General Assembly on Oct. 25, 2023, to use in the 2024 elections.

Doubled-bunked Sen. Grafstein will move

Partisan gerrymandering isnt illegal in the state, and Republicans  who have a supermajority in the legislature  redrew some Democratic lawmakers districts to make it more difficult for them to win reelection.

Grafstein, a freshman lawmaker, lives in northern Raleigh and was double-bunked with Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, the Democratic whip who has served more than four terms in the Senate. Grafstein previously told The N&O that she might move to a new southern Wake County district without an incumbent, and would make a final decision on Thursday.

Wake County has been my home for 33 years. Its the honor of my life to represent our community in the North Carolina Senate, and I intend to continue my public service, she said in her announcement Thursday morning, in which she also criticized Republicans for gerrymandering.

Grafstein is a lawyer and the only LGBTQ+ senator, who has spoken frequently against Republican-sponsored bills that targeted transgender athletes and youth. She said that Republican lawmakers spent our legislative time waging culture wars.

Graftstein also said that her Republican colleagues believe only in their own power. And they know they cant win without rigging the maps.

As a result of the chopping and carving of our Wake County Senate districts, I will be seeking reelection in Senate District 13 in 2024. I look forward to meeting new neighbors, making new friends, and reconnecting with others I have known for years. I intend to run a spirited campaign focused on the issues that matter most to you and your family. I look forward to meeting you, earning your trust, and your vote, she said.

Lisa Grafstein is a Democratic candidate in North Carolina State Senate District 13 in Wake County.

Grafstein supports legislation to make housing more affordable to families across North Carolina, to put more money in the pockets of working people, and to ensure our kids can thrive in quality day care settings.

She said the people of Wake County want our kids to have a world class education and to have more opportunity than the generation that preceded them. We want to drop them off at school without fear that its the last hug we share. We want women to control our own bodies and our own future, without politicians forcing their way between us and our doctors. We want good paying jobs and housing thats affordable. I can tell you this: none of these concerns or aspirations are priorities of Republicans in the North Carolina Senate.

Scott Lassiter is new GOP candidate

Lassiter also ran briefly for state House in 2022. A Wake County soil and water supervisor, he is now running in the district that includes parts of Apex, Cary, Fuquay-Varina, Garner and Holly Springs.

In his announcement, Lassiter highlighted his work in education.

The fact is there is a lack of public education experience and knowledge in the General Assembly. As a practicing public school administrator at a school specially designed to support at-risk students, no one on Jones Street has the unique perspective, education, or experiences that I will bring to the discussion. I am ready to serve. Im ready to do what it takes to make our schools the pride of the nation, he said.

Republican Scott Lassiter is running for the newly drawn Senate District 13 in southern Wake County.

Lassiters campaign announcement says he will work tirelessly to attack problems, not people, both now and once elected, and that his policy will focus on education, infrastructure, and economic opportunity.

There are plenty of folks who can talk-the-talk but our districts savvy voters are looking for someone who has walked-the-walk. I know our best days can be ahead of us, and I will use common-sense conservatism to make that a reality, Lassiter said.

Candidate filing for the 2024 elections runs from Dec. 4 to Dec. 15. The primary is March 5.
Russian forces shelled seven communities in Sumy Oblast on Oct. 25, firing 20 times over the course of the day, the Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported.

The communities of Krasnopillia, Velyka Pysarivka, Bilopillia, Seredyna-Buda, Shalyhyne, Znob-Novhorodske, and Esman came under fire. In total, the administration recorded 146 explosions throughout the day.

The Russian military targeted different communities with an onslaught of shelling, mortar and drone attacks, as well as the use of rocket-launcher systems. Velyka Pysarivka experienced the most intense attacks, with 54 explosions recorded in the area.

There was no information on damage to civilian or military infrastructure as a result of the shelling at the time of publication.

Shelling is a daily occurrence for the communities near Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia. Residents in the region's vulnerable border settlements experience multiple attacks per day.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Russian air defense units downed two long-range Army Tactical Missiles Systems (ATACMS) on Oct. 25, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed.

State media reported that the alleged interception marked the first time Russia's military has shot down the U.S.-made missiles.

The ministry did not specify where the targets were intercepted, but included the information in its daily update on the war in Ukraine.

The claim has not been independently verified at this time.

Ukrainian forces began using U.S.-provided ATACMS on Oct. 17, successfully deploying them in a strike against Russian airfields in occupied territories.

National Security and Defense Council Secretary Oleksiy Danilov said on Oct. 24 that the long-range weapons "exceeded expectations."

Kyiv has pledged only to use ATACMS against targets within Ukraine's own borders.

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The Russians publish an alleged part of a downed ATACMS missile

Russia has allegedly intercepted two U.S.-made ATACMS missiles for the first time, according to a statement by the Russian Ministry of Defense on Oct. 25.

The Ukrainian Air Force did not confirm or deny this particular interception, but stated that strong evidence would be required for such an event.

Later, Russian forces published photos showing fragments of the separating stages of these ballistic missiles. According to their claims, these fragments were locate near the occupied village of Bilorichensky in Luhansk Oblast.

Read also:

Evidence is necessary," said Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat on national television on Oct. 26.

"If they photographed an engine from ATACMS that was found after impact, it doesnt necessarily mean they shot it down. But ballistic missiles can be intercepted. We see that the Patriot system works."

The Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully struck Russian-controlled airfields in the occupied cities of Berdyansk and Luhansk on the night of Oct. 17. Special operations forces later reported the destruction of nine helicopters and special equipment. Military facilities and ammunition depots were also hit.

Read also: How Ukraine could use US-supplied ATACMS missiles

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine had carried out successful strikes, marking the first use o ATACMS missiles with cluster payloads.

Kyiv reportedly received less than a dozen of these missiles. However, government officials insist that Ukraine would receive ATACMS missiles from the United States on a regular basis.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
(Reuters) - Russian forces are disregarding heavy losses and pressing on with a drive to capture the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka, Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday.

Russia has focused on the eastern Ukrainian regions of Donetsk and Luhansk since failing in its initial drive on the capital Kyiv after mounting its invasion in February 2022.

Over the past two weeks, Russia has concentrated on Avdiivka in Donetsk, a town known in peacetime for its big coking plant and now seen as a bulwark of Ukrainian resistance.

"The enemy is trying to move forward and then we beat them back," Oleksandr Shtupun, a spokesperson for Ukraine's southern groups of forces, said on national TV.

"So by no means can you speak of a fixed situation of some sort. Heavy fighting is continuing, though activity has subsided somewhat. The enemy is going through some kind of regrouping."

Russian forces were relying on infantry, using small assault groups of 30 to 40 men, Shtupun said, giving Russia's losses in the last six days as 2,500 dead and wounded in the area.

"This is quite significant even for Russia, bearing in mind that they do not look after their own men," Shtupun said.

Vitaliy Barabash, head of Avdiivka's military administration, said Russia was applying pressure from the north but was unable to get past a rail line under Ukrainian control.

He also dismissed reports that Russian troops had secured control of one of the large slag heaps dominating the town's industrial landscape.

"They put up flags there and tried to make some kind of spectacle," Barabash said.

Valeriy Prozapas, a Ukrainian captain, told Espreso TV that the Russians were acting to exploit the fact that Avdiivka was "de facto half surrounded".

"The second issue is political. They have little to be proud of and have to sell to their population some sort of victory, even if it is only an interim one," Prozapas said.

Ukraine's counteroffensive, launched in June, has resulted in the capture of devastated villages in the east and some settlements in the southern sector, but the pace is far slower than last year's advance through the northeast.

Russian accounts of the latest fighting made no mention of Avdiivka, but said Russian troops had repelled 15 Ukrainian attacks near Kupiansk, farther north.

Ukrainian officials also acknowledged heavy fighting near Kupiansk, a town initially seized by troops but taken back by Ukraine in last year's rapid advance through the northeast.

Authorities in Kharkiv region said they were imposing a mandatory evacuation of families from 10 localities in the area.

Reuters could not independently confirm the battle reports from either side.

(Reporting by Ron Popeski and Oleksandr Kozhukhar; Editing by Tom Hogue)
Occupants have not paid teachers' salaries for three months

Russian occupation authorities have not paid salaries to Ukrainian teachers in occupied parts of southern Ukraine for the past three months, Ukraines National Resistance Center reported on Oct. 25.

The report refers to occupied southern districts where the Russians suspect local teachers of disloyalty. The delay in payments, the NRC suggests, makes the teachers more controllable and dependent on the terms of cooperation with the occupiers.

Read also: Russian Defense Minister Shoigu reportedly visits occupied Donetsk Oblast

Previously, Moscow changed the leadership of the so-called "Ministry of Education" in the occupied part of Ukraines Kherson Oblast. The new minister is expected to purge disloyal educators and look for new ones, preferably from Russia, the NRC said.

Read also: Russia deports children, rapes and tortures Ukrainians  UN report

The report emphasized that the primary task of these Russia-ran schools "the destruction of the self-identification of Ukrainian children, that is, the genocide of Ukrainians as a nation."

Therefore, everyone involved in this process will be held accountable for crimes against the Ukrainian people, the message concludes.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Russia has taken the wheel from Wagner as the Kremlin has recruited up to 100,000 prisoners to fight in Ukraine.

The practice was a trademark move of the late mercenary boss Yevgeny Prigozhin, who filled his groups ranks with convicted criminals.

The army unit, commonly known as Storm-Z, is reportedly seen as a disposable force in Vladimir Putins special military operation.

Poster for military conscription shows a Russian soldier with the slogan 'There is such a profession as defending the homeland. The real deal.' (EPA)

It comes as the Russian prison population has dropped from an estimated 420,000 to around 266,000, according to deputy minister Vsevolod Vukolov, who disclosed the figures earlier this month.

Russian state-controlled media reported that Storm-Z squads exist, that they took part in intense battles and some of their members received medals for bravery, but it has not disclosed how they are formed, or the losses they take.

While the Russian defence ministry has never acknowledged creating Storm-Z units, the first reports of their existence emerged in April when the Institute for the Study of War cited what it said appeared to be a leaked Russian military report on the formation of the squads.

Recruiting prisoners was a trademark move of the late Wagner boss Yevgeny Prigozhin (PRIGOZHIN PRESS SERVICE)

RTVI, a Russian news website, said Storm-Z is the same scheme as with the [Wagner] private military company. Prisoners sign contracts with the defence ministry, and after completing them they can go home or continue serving.

However, a Russian soldier who fought alongside members of the penal squad told Reuters that Storm-Z fighters are just meat.

The soldier, from army unit no. 40318 who was deployed near Bakhmut in May and June, said hed given medical treatment to a group of six or seven wounded Storm-Z fighters on the battlefield.

In doing so, he had disobeyed an order from a commander - whose name he didnt know - to leave the men. He said he didnt know why the commander gave the order, but claimed that it typified how Storm-Z fighters were considered of lesser value than ordinary troops by officers.

A screenshot from a video shared on June 28 by Russian prisoners' rights campaign group Gulagu.net. It shows fighters from a Storm-Z squad explaining they will no longer fight in Ukraine, in protest at treatment by their commanders (via REUTERS)

The soldier, who requested anonymity because he feared prosecution in Russia for publicly discussing the war, said he had sympathy for the mens plight: If the commandants catch anyone with the smell of alcohol on their breath, then they immediately send them to the Storm squads.

The UK ministry of defence addressed the emergence of the penal squads in its update on 24 October, saying: Russia largely continues to rely on specially designated Shtorm-Z units for local offensive operations in Ukraine.

It said: Multiple accounts suggest the units are given the lowest priority for logistical and medical support, while repeatedly being ordered to attack.

The intelligence update added that the squads were likely first fielded in 2022 and they highlight the extreme difficulty Russia has in generating combat infantry capable of conducting effective offensive operations.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to work with Mongolia to firmly support each other in safeguarding sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

He called on both sides to fully understand and firmly support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns.

Li made the remarks during his meeting with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States.

Noting that China and Mongolia are adjacent to each other by mountains and rivers, Li said that friendship and cooperation have always been the main tone of bilateral relations.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh held a fruitful meeting in Beijing not long ago, and reached a series of important consensuses on promoting the building of a China-Mongolia community with a shared future and deepening Belt and Road cooperation, which have provided strategic guidance for the sound and steady development of bilateral relations, Li said.

China is ready to work with Mongolia to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state and always be a good neighbor and good brother who can be trusted and relied on, Li said.

He called on both sides to take the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the establishment of comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries next year as an opportunity to carry forward the friendly tradition, build up political mutual trust, strengthen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and provide more impetus for their respective development and revitalization, so as to create more benefits for their people.

The two sides should continue to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, consolidate the existing gains and plan for future growth, Li said.

China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Mongolia in such fields as port connectivity, economy and trade, and green development to further expand the pie of common interests, so as to achieve win-win results, Li said.

China is ready to strengthen cooperation with Mongolia under the SCO and other multilateral frameworks to better safeguard the common interests and build a community with a shared future for mankind, Li added.

For his part, Oyun-Erdene noted that in recent years, the comprehensive strategic partnership between Mongolia and China has been continuously deepened, with close high-level exchanges and deepening mutual understanding between the two countries, adding that the economic and trade cooperation has developed rapidly.

Mongolia firmly abides by the one-China principle and opposes external interference in China's internal affairs, he said, adding that his country is ready to work with China to continuously enhance political mutual trust and mutual support and to closely synergize development strategies and initiatives put forward by the two sides.

Mongolia stands ready to work with China to strengthen border port capacity building and connectivity, promote the Belt and Road cooperation, deepen cooperation in areas including trade, railway, green development, tourism and culture, and deepen multilateral cooperation, so as to lift Mongolia-China relations to a higher level, he said. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
Mayor of Kyiv Vitalii Klychko looks on remain of Kh-47M2 Kinzhal missile at an exhibition showing remains of missiles and drones that Russia used to attack Kyiv on May 12, 2023 in Kyiv, Ukraine. (Photo by Oleksii Samsonov /Global Images Ukraine via Getty Images)

Russia claims it can produce as many Kinzhal missiles as the military can shoot. Its air force patrols the Black Sea with the missile. And it claims the hypersonic cruise missile can evade any Western air defenses, wreak havoc across the Black Sea and Ukraine, and make NATO suffer for all of its interference.

In reality, the failed vanity weapons might sink some grain ships, but they will likely fail to penetrate any air defenses around high-value targets like Ukrainian power centers or major cities. In fact, the missile was such a failure in its debut that Russia arrested the scientists most responsible for it.

What to know about the Kinzhal missile

The first thing to realize: The hypersonic craze is over hypersonic cruise missiles and glide vehicles. These can, in theory, pass extremely quickly through air defenses while maneuvering, making them essentially impossible to intercept.

The U.S., China, and more seek to create hypersonic missiles, interceptors, glide vehicles, and running shoes. America, on its own, has at least eight major programs tied to hypersonic weapon development . They're notoriously hard to get right . Russia appeared to be in the lead of hypersonic development until the world got an actual look at the actual missile in combat.

What makes a hypersonic missile so valuable relies on two major traits: They fly at five times the speed of sound or greater and can maneuver while doing so.

But the Kinzhal does not appear to actually maneuver. It flies fast, sure, but it flies on a ballistic path. Which means it's really just a ballistic missile. Nearly all ballistic missiles fly at hypersonic speeds. The first ballistic missiles of World War II could fly at nearly Mach 5 .

And, importantly, if the missile can't maneuver, like the Kinzhal can't, modern air defenses can likely intercept it.

And, so, the Kinzhal is not actually a hypersonic missile. It's just a run-of-the-mill ballistic missile.

Russia's MiG-31 supersonic interceptor jets carrying hypersonic Kinzhal (Dagger) missiles fly over Red Square during the Victory Day military parade in Moscow on May 9, 2018. (Photo credit should read YURI KADOBNOV/AFP via Getty Images)

Can the Kinzhal missile be intercepted?

And so it's probably not surprising that Putin threatened the world with the Kinzhal missile and most of us went , "Oh well," and went back to trying to make Kinder Eggs with bathtub wine inside.

Ukraine, obviously, doesn't want a bunch more missiles flying toward it. But the first combat debut of the Kinzhal turned out to be bull , and a later salvo got nearly perfectly intercepted by Ukrainian air defenses .

That was when those Russian scientists were arrested on charges of treason. Lol.

In fact, the Kinzhal missile performance is so bad that some scholars in the space are calling for slowing the hypersonic hype train .

So Russia should feel free to rattle the saber all it wants. Frankly, an actual saber would be about as frightening.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia said on Thursday that it planned to build close ties with North Korea in all areas, a day after South Korea, Japan and the United States condemned what they said were weapons supplies from Pyongyang to Moscow.

Asked about the accusation by the three countries, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: "There are many such reports, they are all groundless as a rule, there are no specifics. Such reports have been around for a long time. We see no point in commenting on this."

He added: "North Korea is our neighbour and we continue and will continue to develop close relations in all areas."

Pressed on whether weapons deliveries had taken place, Peskov said: "We don't comment on this in any way."

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a summit in Russia in September at which they discussed military matters, the war in Ukraine and possible Russian help for the secretive state's satellite programme.

The United States and its allies have voiced concern that Kim could provide weapons and ammunition to Russia, which has expended vast stocks in its 20-month war in Ukraine.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Mark Trevelyan; Editing by Andrew Osborn)
John Kirby, US National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, has said that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are holding the line in the vicinity of Avdiivka, Lyman and Kupiansk, where Russia is trying to advance.

Source: John Kirby during a White House press briefing, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Kirby said that Russia has launched a renewed offensive in eastern Ukraine across multiple lines, including around Avdiivka, Lyman and Kupiansk. He said that the offensive "was not a surprise" as the US has been monitoring the build-up of Russian forces in the area. Thus far, Ukraines Armed Forces "have been able to hold on and hold on the defence against this offensive"  in part thanks to the US military aid.

"Since the 11th of October, Russia has suffered significant losses in this offensive attempt of theirs, including at least 125 armoured vehicles around Avdiivka and more than a battalions worth of equipment," Kirby said.

He warned that Russia will likely continue to attack around Avdiivka and "may be able to achieve some tactical gains" in the coming months. However, this is achieved at the cost of "thousands of casualties" in Russias effort to conduct the offensive, with Russian forces under-trained for combat and suffering from "poor morale".

"We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers whove refused to follow orders. We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire," Kirby added.

He also said he believed that the Russian offensive near Avdiivka is another "sobering reminder" that Russian President Vladimir Putin "is not giving up on his aspirations to take all of Ukraine", making it crucial that the US and allies continue to support Ukraine.

Previously: Last week, UK Defence Intelligence reported that Russia has launched a coordinated offensive on several fronts in the east of Ukraine but said that it "looks increasingly unlikely" that it will capture Avdiivka.

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The General Staff of Ukraines Armed Forces reported at a briefing on 26 October that Russian troops were trying to reclaim their lost positions near Klishchiivka and Andriivka; the Defence Forces of Ukraine repelled seven attacks there.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 18:00 on 26 October.

Quote: "A total of 45 combat clashes took place over the past day between Ukrainian and Russian forces. In total, the enemy carried out 14 airstrikes and launched 12 attacks using multiple-launch rocket systems on the positions of Ukrainian troops and populated areas.

During the day, the Ukrainian Air Force launched an attack on areas where Russian personnel, weapons and military equipment were concentrated, and another attack on one of the enemy's anti-aircraft missile systems.

Units from Rocket Forces and Artillery hit clusters of Russian personnel, weapons and military equipment and the enemy's artillery."

Details: On the Lyman and Zaporizhzhia fronts, the Russians did not conduct offensive actions, but continued to regroup their troops. The Russian army is regrouping on the Shakhtarsk front as well.

On the Kupiansk front, the Russians conducted unsuccessful assaults near Synkivka and Ivanivka (Kharkiv Oblast).

On the Bakhmut front, the Ukrainian military repulsed 4 attacks near Bohdanivka and Khromove (Donetsk Oblast). In addition, the Russians tried to restore their lost positions near Klishchiivka and Andriivka, where our defenders repelled seven attacks.

On the Avdiivka front, the Russians conducted unsuccessful assaults near Stepove, Avdiivka, Tonenke, and Sieverne (Donetsk Oblast), where the Defence Forces repulsed 14 attacks.

On the Marinka front, the Russians conducted unsuccessful assaults with air support near Marinka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk Oblast). Here, Ukrainian soldiers repelled 13 Russian attacks.

At the same time, Ukraines Defence Forces continue to conduct an offensive operation on the Melitopol front, and assault actions on the Bakhmut front, inflicting losses in manpower and equipment on the Russian troops and exhausting the Russians along the entire front line.

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A woman was injured after Russian shelling in Kharkiv Oblast, and a 57-year-old man was killed by a mine, Governor Oleh Syniehubov reported on Oct. 26.

Russian forces shelled the Chuhuiv and Kupian districts, destroying a residential building and damaging several others. An 83-year-old woman was found injured in the rubble and hospitalized as a result.

In the village of Yaremivka, 30 kilometers from Izium, a 57-year-old man was killed on the spot by the explosion of an anti-personnel mine.

Syniehubov also said that de-mining works continued in the area, and 301 explosive objects were discovered and neutralized during the day.

Mines and unexploded ordinance have become a consistent threat throughout front-line areas of Ukraine and regions that were previously occupied by Russian forces. Even far behind the front, shell fragments or other unexploded ordinance still pose a danger to civilians.

Around 1/3rd of Ukrainian territory has been made unsafe as a result, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Oct. 14.

According to Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, mines and unexploded ordinance have killed around 250 people and injured more than 500. Another six million are likely threatened.

Read also: Russia is covering Ukraine with landmines. Clearing them will be extremely difficult

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Russian multi-weapon attacks in Kherson Oblast over the past 24 hours killed two, including a child, and injured four, regional governor Oleksandr Prokudin said on Oct. 26.

The attacks reportedly used a variety of weapons, including tanks, more than 350 mortar shells, artillery, air strikes, and drones, and targeted residential areas of the oblast.

The report did not specify where the attacks occurred, what the extent of the victims' injuries were, or how much damage was caused.

Russian strikes on Oct. 25 in the town of Beryslav, also in Kherson Oblast, killed a 13-year-old boy.

The previous day, on Oct. 24, Russian forces attacked other towns in the oblast, damaging a hospital and fire station and injuring two people.

Since the liberation of the city of Kherson and its outskirts in Nov. 2022, Russian forces have relentlessly shelled the area, causing numerous civilian deaths and injuries.

Read also: The dead villages: Hope and despair side-by-side in the liberated south

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Russian attacks on Kherson Oblast on Oct. 26 killed one civilian in the Beryslav district and injured a police officer in the regional center Kherson, local officials reported.

Russia carried out an air strike against the Beryslav district at around 1:20 p.m., the regional prosecutor's office said.

An aerial bomb reportedly hit a local cafe, killing a 59-year-old resident. Several buildings were also damaged, including a kindergarten, the prosecutors said.

Sometimes around noon, Russian forces also attacked the Korabel city district of Kherson, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin reported.

A 40-year-old police officer suffered minor injuries and was provided with medical assistance, the governor said.

Partially occupied Kherson Oblast suffers regular Russian attacks as the invading troops continue to hold the east-bank side of the Dnipro River in the region.

On Oct. 25, Russian attacks against the oblast killed two people, including a child, and injured four others, Prokudin reported earlier today.

Read also: The dead villages: Hope and despair side-by-side in the liberated south

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FILE PHOTO: FILE PHOTO: Chairman of supervisory board of Alfa Group consortium Fridman attends session during Week of Russian Business in Moscow

LONDON (Reuters) - Sanctioned Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman cannot spend thousands of pounds a month on the upkeep of his London mansion, containing a 44 million-pound ($53.2 million) art collection, London's High Court ruled on Thursday.

Fridman took Britain's sanctions office, OFSI, to court after it refused to allow him to spend 30,000 pounds a month to prevent Athlone House, which he bought for 65 million pounds, from falling into disrepair.

The 59-year-old also wanted to spend 1,850 pounds a month on communications systems, which Fridman said regulate Athlone House's telephones, IT, lighting, heating and security.

His lawyers argued Athlone House is "a unique property with unique needs ... not least in light of its art collection".

Fridman also wanted to be allowed to spend money on non-security staff, including a driver  which he had said he was refused on the grounds he can take public transport.

However, he dropped his claim to be able to pay a driver after leaving Britain for Israel and then Russia shortly before last week's hearing.

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) said it had already licensed Fridman to meet arrears and make one-off payments totalling around 1.4 million pounds, plus future payments of 760,000 pounds a year.

In a written ruling on Thursday, Judge Pushpinder Saini dismissed Fridman's case against OFSI, saying its decision was lawful.

Fridman's lawyers had told Saini that he wishes to be able to return to Britain, but Saini said in his ruling that Fridman's return "will not be possible" as he is effectively subject to a travel ban.

Fridman's London-based lawyers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

A British government spokesperson welcomed the judgment on Thursday, which it said showed that "our financial sanctions licensing regime works".

Athlone House, in north London, was raided by Britain's National Crime Agency in December, which is the subject of a separate legal challenge by Fridman.

The Russian billionaire, whose net worth is estimated by Forbes magazine at $12.8 billion, has been subject to British sanctions since March 2022, a month after Russia invaded Ukraine.

His designation under Britain's sanctions regime was updated in September to remove a reference to him being a "pro-Kremlin oligarch".

(Reporting by Sam Tobin, editing by Deborah Kyvrikosaios)
Two Russian cosmonauts examined a leaky backup radiator outside the International Space Station on Wednesday while completing other tasks outside the orbiting laboratory.

NASA said a backup radiator on the ISS's Nauka multipurpose laboratory module began leaking coolant and stopped on Oct. 9, changing the environment around the ISS. The leak has not affected the module's cooling, according to NASA.

NASA TARGETS APRIL FOR BOEING STARLINER'S FIRST ASTRONAUT LAUNCH

On Wednesday, cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chub began their extravehicular activity (EVA), also known as a spacewalk, around 2 p.m. ET and were expected to be outside the ISS for about 7 hours.

During Russian Spacewalk 61, the pair were scheduled to install and deploy scientific payloads and examine the multipurpose laboratory modules backup external radiator, according to NASA. The cosmonauts were tasked with locating the leak's origin and taking photos and video of the hardware.

While the cosmonauts were completing work to isolate the radiator from the rest of the cooling system, some residual coolant leaked from the radiator and got onto a tether connected to Kononenkos spacesuit. This helped the cosmonauts locate the leak point when the liquid coolant pooled near the possible leak site on the radiator.

The tether will be bagged and not brought back into the ISS, NASA commentator Rob Navias said.

Engineers back at mission control will look at their images and video to determine if the radiator can be repaired.

NASA FINDS WATER, BUILDING BLOCKS OF LIFE IN LARGEST-EVER ASTEROID SAMPLE

The radiator was launched to the ISS in 2010. Earlier this year, the radiator was removed and reattached outside the Nauka laboratory module before it began leaking in October.

The leak delayed two scheduled spacewalks for NASA and European Space Agency astronauts to allow more time to complete an analysis of the coolant leak.

NASA astronaut Loral OHara and European Space Agency astronaut Andreas Mogensen were scheduled to collect microorganisms outside the ISS as part of an experiment. That spacewalk will now happen later this year.

The coolant leak also delayed another spacewalk for O'Hara and NASA astronaut Jasmin Moghbeli, which is now scheduled for Oct. 30. That EVA will mark the fourth all-woman spacewalk in history.





Original article source: Russian cosmonauts examine leaky radiator outside space station during spacewalk
White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said Thursday that the Russian military is executing soldiers who arent following orders amid Moscows war with Ukraine.

Kirby said Russia continues to show no regard from the lives of its soldiers, and the United States thinks there have been thousands of casualties, with some of them on the orders of their own leaders.

We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who refuse to follow orders. We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire, Kirby said.

Kirby said the move is a symptom of how poorly Russia is doing against Ukraine and how significant its losses have been. But he warned that Russia still maintains offensive capabilities and may be able to achieve tactical gains in the coming months.

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Its reprehensible to think about that you would execute your own soldiers because they didnt want to follow orders and now threatening to execute entire units, its barbaric. But I think its a symptom of how poorly Russias military leaders know theyre doing and how bad they have handled this from a military perspective, he said.

From the very beginning, weve been talking about poor command and control, poor logistics and sustainment. They cant feed their guys in the field, for crying out loud. And now, again, theyre willing to shoot them for  not following orders, Kirby added.

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The national security spokesman also said the execution of soldiers points to what the White House describes as desperation amid a crunch in military forces during the war.

They are in such desperate need to make some kind of progress, particularly in the Donbas  that they are literally throwing young men into the fight who havent been properly trained, havent been properly equip, and certainly are not being properly led, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Thursday reaffirmed the East African country's commitment to global peacekeeping operations.

Ahmed made the remarks during the commemoration of Ethiopia's National Army Day. He said Ethiopia will continue contributing peacekeepers around the world as part of its international responsibilities.

"Our defense forces are symbols of peace wherever they go," the state-run Ethiopian News Agency quoted Ahmed as saying. He called on members of the Ethiopian army to always be ready to serve, not just Ethiopia, but the continent and the world while in need.

Currently, Ethiopia is one of the top troop-contributing countries to the United Nations and African Union peacekeeping missions. 
Russian troops continue their offensive in Avdiivka, in Ukraine's east, and surround some Ukrainian troops on three sides.

A video shows a Russian flag near Avdiivka planted in a waste pile, but any small gain comes at a high cost.

The renewed offensive in the area has wasted Russian troops, tanks, and armor.

Russia has spent the past few weeks pummeling an area along the eastern front with waves of troops, tanks, and munition, and while it comes at a high cost, geolocated footage shows Russian soldiers are celebrating their gains that could come to surround Ukrainian forces in the area.

On Tuesday, a video shared on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, showed what appeared to be a Russian-planted flag in a waste yard north of Avdiivka. The video was apparently filmed by a Ukrainian first-person view (FPV) drone, which, in the footage, hit the flag and exploded.

The video suggests Russian forces are making some advances in the area around Avdiivka, an eastern Ukrainian region just northwest of occupied Donetsk that's seen major fighting over the past few weeks as Russia launches a renewed offensive that threatens the tightening pocket of Ukrainian defenders.

Experts at The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) confirmed the advancements on Wednesday in geolocated footage but noted: "Russian forces largely claimed that Russian forces controlled the Avdiivka waste heap, as did a Ukrainian military observer. Ukrainian Avdiivka City Military Administration Head Vitaly Barabash denied claims that Russian forces control the Avdiivka waste heap and stated that the waste heap is a contested 'gray area.'"

The fighting is intense in the area. Ukrainian journalist Yuriy Butusov noted in a Telegram post on Thursday, writing that "the situation north of Avdiivka seriously worsened. Despite heavy losses, the Russian assault units north of Avdiivka advanced along the railway track, occupied an area up to 1 km wide, trying to expand the controlled corridor and create conditions for the concentration of forces and further offensive" in the area, which could include regrouping in a northern Coke plant.

"This is a very serious threat that needs maximum attention," Butusov added, because Russian forces are also attacking south of Avdiivka, effectively moving to surround the area.

A Ukrainian soldier fires a RPG toward Russian positions at a frontline near Avdiivka, in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, Friday, April 28, 2023. AP Photo/Libkos

From the beginning, Russia's attacks in Avdiivka have come at a heavy cost  its military appears to again be using "human wave tactics," which involves sending masses of poorly trained and ill-equipped soldiers straight in frontal attacks. They previously employed this gruesome strategy, which a White House official recently said showed Russia has "no regard for the lives of its own soldiers, willingly sacrificing them in pursuit of Putin's goals," last winter.

But along with high casualties, Russia is also losing other assets in the area. Last week, ISW think tank confirmed Russia lost dozens of tanks and armored vehicles in the initial assault around Avdiivka. Combat footage shared by Ukraine's military on Friday shows what it says is the destruction of Russian tanks and armor in the area. Ukraine's Special Operations Forces (SSO) said it used a combination of FPV drones, US-provided Javelin anti-tank guided missiles, and mortars to wreck the tanks along with four armored personnel carriers, two tanks, and troops.

But Russia appears to be absorbing these loses. If that continues, it is possible they could threaten to cut off the Ukrainian defenders much as they did in the battle for Bakhmut earlier this year. After their first wave of attacks earlier this month, "Russian forces then regrouped and conducted a second wave of attacks around Avdiivka on October 20th," George Barros, the geospatial-intelligence team lead and a Russia analyst at ISW, said in a video posted Wednesday. "This suggests that the Russian forces either believe that they can earnestly take Avdiivka or that Russia's command continues prioritizing attacks on this particular axis despite previous lack of success and losses."

Part of Russia's push in the area may be because it's decided that Avdiivka is essential to conquer, especially as Moscow has few battlefield victories this year beyond Bakhmut, which only came after fierce fighting and the effective destruction of the city.

"The Russian command will want to show success here at any cost" because of the high losses and investment in resources and military power in the area, Butusov wrote, urging Ukraine to direct full attention there.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Russian forces keep trying to advance in the east of Ukraine, with the most intense fighting on the Kupiansk, Lyman, Bakhmut, Avdiivka, Marinka, Shakhtarsk and Zaporizhzhia fronts; Ukraines Defence Forces repelled dozens of their attacks.

Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, information as of 06:00 on 26 October

Quote: "A total of 78 combat clashes took place during the day. The enemy launched 50 air strikes and carried out 49 attacks using multiple-launch rocket systems on the positions of Ukrainian troops and populated areas."

Details: In the area of responsibility of the Khortytsia Operational Strategic Group on the Kupiansk front, Ukrainian defenders repelled 13 Russian attacks near Synkivka, Petropavlivka and Ivanivka (Kharkiv Oblast).

On the Lyman front, Ukrainian Defence Forces are holding their ground and have repelled all Russian attacks near the settlements of Nadiia and Makiivka (Luhansk Oblast).

On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian troops repelled 10 Russian attacks near the settlements of Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka and Andriivka (Donetsk Oblast). Ukrainian Defence Forces pursued their assault operations south of the city of Bakhmut (Donetsk Oblast), inflicting losses in military personnel and equipment on the Russian occupying forces and consolidating their positions.

In the area of responsibility of the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group on the Avdiivka front, the Russians have kept trying to encircle the city of Avdiivka and have actively used their aircraft, whereas Ukrainian soldiers have steadfastly held the defence, inflicting heavy losses on them. The Russian offensive near the settlements of Stepove, Avdiivka, Tonenke and Sieverne (Donetsk Oblast) was a failure, as the Ukrainian Defence Forces repelled 15 attacks.

On the Marinka front, the Russians launched unsuccessful assault operations around the populated areas of Marinka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk Oblast), with Ukrainian troops repelling more than 20 Russian attacks.

On the Shakhtarsk and Zaporizhzhia fronts, Ukrainian defenders repelled all Russian attacks near Vodiane, Novoukrainka and Staromaiorske (Donetsk Oblast) and Verbove (Zaporizhzhia Oblast).

Meanwhile, Ukrainian Defence Forces are pursuing an offensive operation on the Melitopol front, inflicting losses in military personnel and equipment on the Russian occupying forces and exhausting the Russians along the entire line of contact.

In the area of responsibility of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group on the Kherson front, Ukrainian Defence Forces are leading their counter-battery operations, striking the Russian 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, Russian forces are maintaining their military presence in the border areas, undertaking sabotage activities to prevent Ukrainian troops from being deployed to vulnerable areas, and are increasing the density of minefields along the state border in Russia's Belgorod Oblast.

Ukraine's Air Force launched seven attacks on clusters of Russian military personnel over the past 24 hours.

Ukraines Rocket Forces and Artillery destroyed three ammunition storage points, six Russian artillery pieces and a radar station of a Russian air defence system.

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A law enforcement officer has been injured in a Russian attack on Kherson.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, the Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Quote: "The Russian army struck the Korabelnyi district of Kherson in the afternoon. A 40-year-old law enforcement officer was injured as a result of an enemy drone attack."

Details: Prokudin said that a man suffered light injuries. He was provided with medical assistance.

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The Russians have brought a group of psychologists controlled by the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) to Ukrainian temporarily occupied territories, allegedly to provide free assistance.

Source: Ukraine's National Resistance Center

Details: For example, in occupied Luhansk Oblast, the Russians opened about 10 psychological offices, which already provide assistance to dozens of people. However, the group of psychologists who arrived from Russia was approved by the FSB.

The psychologists are tasked with gathering information about disloyal residents during sessions. They also propagandise for the Russian Armed Forces.

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Russian attacks on Kherson Oblast killed two civilians, including a 13-year-old boy, over the course of the past 24 hours. Four people were injured.

Source: Oleksandr Prokudin, Head of Kherson Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram

Details: Russian forces launched 51 attacks on Kherson Oblast during the past day, firing 365 projectiles from mortars, artillery, Grad missile systems, tanks, aircraft, and drones. The Russians bombarded Kherson Oblast 8 times and dropped 35 guided bombs on civilians on the right bank of the Dnipro River.

The invaders aimed at the residential area of the settlements. Two people were killed, including a teenager, and four others were injured in the Russian attack on the oblast.

A 13-year-old boy was seriously injured  medics had to pronounce the teenager dead. Along with the dead teenager, two other men were injured. A 43-year-old man suffered a perforating shoulder wound, a 35-year-old man suffered an eye injury and shrapnel wounds to the face, and both also suffered mine-blast and ear barotrauma injuries.

In addition, the Kherson regional prosecutor's office reported that at about 06:30 on 26 October, Russian forces fired artillery on the village of Kizomys in the Bilozerka hromada of Kherson Oblast [a hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.]. A number of residential buildings were damaged. A 67-year-old local resident was injured. He has been hospitalised.

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Tere Harris, center, mother of Paso Verde Elementary School teacher Kaylin Footman, who was arrested after a mental health crisis, is comforted by Bobbie Wooten-Feed, left, and Sacramento NAACP President Betty Williams on Monday, Oct. 23, 2023, as they plead for her transfer from Sacramento Countys Main Jail to a medical facility. The Natomas Unified teacher was arrested when police were called to her home.

A Sacramento teacher jailed during what her family said was a mental health crisis was arrested on suspicion of saying she would assault the principal at the Natomas Unified school where she worked and of biting a sheriffs deputy while in jail custody, according to reports of the incidents filed by the Sacramento County Sheriffs Office.

The family of Kaylin Footman, a second-grade Paso Verde School teacher, and the Sacramento chapter of the NAACP have been sharing her story in the last week after she was charged in two separate criminal cases. Footman, 31, was arraigned Tuesday at an inpatient jail cell, said her public defender, because she was too unwell to come to a courtroom.

A judge approved Footmans transfer to a psychiatric hospital and criminal proceedings have been delayed.

Footman, arrested initially Oct. 14, faces charges in connection with making criminal threats, threatening a school official, two counts of resisting a peace officer and battery against a peace officer.

Her family  who also implored Sacramento County supervisors for help during Tuesdays board meeting  and the Sacramento chapter of the NAACP have requested the charges be dropped because the allegations stemmed from her mental health crisis.

The Sacramento Sheriffs County Office said it has a duty to seek charges when they believe someone violated the law.

We cannot not document it, said Sgt. Amar Gandhi, spokesman for the Sheriffs Office. It doesnt make any sense.

Deputies reports say Footman texted Paso Verde School Principal Amy Whitten multiple times, saying she would inflict bloodshed on the school administrator. When Footman was booked, she refused to comply with directives, pulled her arms away, delayed, and obstructed deputies in their duties, the reports said.

(Whitten) was in fear for her safety, the reports said.

Whitten referred a request for comment to Deidra Powell, a spokeswoman for the Natomas Unified School District. Powell said the district could not comment on a personnel matter and that the district has multiple programs offering mental health support.

Footman is still employed with the district, Powell said by email.

The Sacramento County District Attorneys Office brought a second set of charges against Footman stemming from an incident that happened while deputies were moving her to the jails psych ward.

Footman is accused of biting a deputy, causing a laceration requiring major medical treatment, the report said. It adds Footman reportedly punched a second deputy during the incident.

The justice system also has checks and balances: Sheriffs deputies simply request charges and its up to prosecutors to actually file charges, Gandhi added.

The sheriff doesnt have a magic wand to make charges appear and disappear, Gandhi said.

Kate Carlson, a public defender who represented Footman during her arraignment, said her criminal case will proceed after medical treatment. Footmans next court hearing is expected Nov. 1.

She was not able to understand what was going on and react appropriately, Carlson said of Footman during the arraignment. She is very unwell.
In this courtroom sketch, FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, right, is questioned by his attorney, Mark Cohen, left, as Judge Lewis Kaplan listens on the bench, center, during his trial in Manhattan federal court, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in New York. (Elizabeth Williams via AP)

NEW YORK (AP)  Sam Bankman-Fried got a test run taking the stand at his New York criminal trial Thursday after a judge sent jurors home but let him demonstrate portions of his testimony before deciding which parts of it he'll allow.

Bankman-Fried, 31, is expected to face the jury Friday when he testifies about his version of how his multibillion-dollar cryptocurrency empire grew into a giant in the industry and then collapsed, causing billions of dollars in losses that prosecutors blame on his extravagant spending on investments, donations and a lavish lifestyle.

During nearly three hours of testimony Thursday after jurors were sent home, Bankman-Fried tried to show that the presence of lawyers when he made decisions about how he spent customer money led him to think he was acting legally.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon drilled him with the sort of questions he'll likely face during cross-examination, frequently eliciting choppy answers in which Bankman-Fried seemed unsure of the conversations he'd had with lawyers.

Shortly before she finished, Sassoon pressed Bankman-Fried on why he hired a general counsel who had worked at a company that had a criminal insider trading scandal.

I did want to find a general counsel who would be comfortable with the business being allowed to take reasonable risks, Bankman-Fried said, adding that he did not want his top lawyer restraining the company from risk-taking.

Later, Sassoon asked if he was aware that his general counsel was using illegal narcotics with Bankman-Fried employees.

Objection! defense attorney Mark Cohen called out.

Sustained, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan answered. The judge said he'll rule on Friday.

The possibility of Bankman-Fried testifying drew large crowds to the lower Manhattan courthouse Thursday. Those in court included Bankman-Fried's parents, as well as Michael Lewis, the author who recently published a book on Bankman-Fried. Three overflow rooms contained dozens of crypto enthusiasts and spectators.

It seemed on Thursday that Bankman-Fried was about to start his testimony before the jury after lunch when the judge changed the plans, saying he'd prefer to make rulings on what Bankman-Fried can testify about before he starts. He had previously said he'd conduct a hearing and make those rulings on Friday.

We're in the home stretch, Kaplan told jurors as he sent them home for the day, saying he knew it was a little surprise for them to have the rest of the afternoon off. He told them they were likely to get the case in the first few days of next week.

Since early October, prosecutors have presented their case through witnesses and dozens of exhibits including financial records.

After prosecutors rested Thursday, defense lawyers immediately asked Kaplan to acquit Bankman-Fried on the grounds that prosecutors had failed to present sufficient evidence. The judge rejected the request.

The California entrepreneur has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges accusing him of diverting billions of dollars from his clients and investors to make risky investments, buy luxury housing, engage in a star-studded publicity campaign and make large political and charitable donations.

While on the witness stand Thursday, Bankman-Fried was repeatedly uncomfortable. He winced, stared downward and apologized repeatedly. He often would rephrase the prosecutor's question, saying, I wouldn't phrase it that way.

He often appeared unaware of how his companies were functioning, asked for documents that either did not exist or were not available to him.

In one particularly tough exchange, Sassoon asked Bankman-Fried what was written in a document that allowed him to borrow or spend customer funds. He stared at the document in silence for minutes and vaguely explained how he used funds.

When the prosecutor tried to ask the question again, Cohen objected that he had already answered the question.

He did not answer the question, your honor, Sassoon said.

Agreed, said the judge.

Bankman-Fried had previously remained quiet through a three-week trial as several members of his executive inner circle have testified against him in cooperation deals they made with the government before pleading guilty to criminal charges.

In their testimony, the executives insisted that Bankman-Fried directed them to spend billions of dollars taken from the accounts of FTX customers and funneled through Alameda Research, a hedge fund he started in 2017, two years before he created the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.

Bankman-Fried was arrested in the Bahamas and extradited to the United States last December, a month after his businesses collapsed.

Initially, he was freed on a $250 million personal recognizance bond and required to remain at the Palo Alto, California, home of his parents, longtime Stanford University law professors.

Kaplan revoked the bail in August after concluding that Bankman-Fried had tried to influence potential trial witnesses and ordered him jailed.

Those testifying against Bankman-Fried have included Caroline Ellison, his former girlfriend who was chief executive of Alameda before it was publicly revealed that billions of dollars were missing last November.

She told jurors that the collapse of the businesses brought her relief that I didn't have to lie anymore and she blamed Bankman-Fried for corrupting her moral compass by creating justifications for doing things that she knew to be wrong and illegal.

She also admitted doctoring financial balance sheets to try to hide that Alameda was borrowing about $10 billion from FTX customers by June 2022, a discrepancy that was revealed when customers rushed to withdraw deposits last November as word got out that their money was not safe.
(Bloomberg) -- Russian billionaire Mikhail Fridman failed to win some relief from strict sanctions imposed on him, after a UK court denied his request for access to extra cash to pay for staff and the upkeep of his north London mansion.

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The court agreed with the UKs Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation, which had decided the additional payments requested for maintenance of the house were not for basic needs but enable Fridman to continue enjoying the lifestyle he had prior to being designated.

London courts have seen a flurry of challenges to the UKs sanctions regime since the government imposed them on a number of Russian billionaires and businesses in the wake of the countrys invasion of Ukraine. Britains National Crime Agency dropped its investigation into alleged sanctions evasion by Fridman after a high profile raid of his home.

Fridman will continue the fight against the curbs until all legal avenues have been exhausted, he said in a statement, claiming that the sanctions regime undermines the presumption of innocence and is unjust. This sends a disconcerting message to potential foreign investors in the UK: that property rights may no longer be as sacrosanct as once believed, he said.

Fridman had sought permission to pay a 30,000 ($36,401) monthly management fee as well as payments for internal phone lines, TV equipment and staff costs.

OFSI acted rationally and within the bounds of its residual discretion, the judge said in the ruling published Thursday. The government had permitted the billionaire to make payments of around 1 million for ongoing already incurred expenses and cover Fridmans basic needs, the lawyers for the government had said during the hearing.

Fridman bought his property, named Athlone House in Londons Highgate, for 65 million in 2016.

He is the founder and main shareholder of Alfa Group, which includes Russias largest private bank. The European Union and the UK imposed sanctions on Fridman and his partners soon after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. The US sanctioned him in August, while he was living in London.

Fridman, who holds Israeli and Russian citizenship, left London earlier this month for Israel, complaining it was impossible to live in the UK under the sanctions regime. He moved to Israel and then flew to Moscow after the attack by Hamas militants on the country.

(Corrects timeline of Fridmans movements in the last paragraph)

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A South Carolina state judge has tossed out a lawsuit challenging Attorney General Alan Wilsons award of a $75 million legal fee to two law firms involved in settling a dispute over tons of poisonous plutonium at the Savannah River Site.

Wilson, as the states chief legal officer, has broad authority to direct and control the States legal affairs, wrote state Judge Daniel Coble, who cited state laws and numerous precedents.

And under that authority, Wilson specifically had the power to award a contingency fee contract that wound up bestowing $75 million out of a $600 million settlement to two small Columbia law firms for their work on a long-running dispute with the U.S. Department of Energy, Coble wrote in the 19-page opinion.

The dispute focused on what to do with nearly 10 metric tons of abandoned toxic plutonium the federal government had left at the Savannah River Site.

Because Wilson, as a member of the states executive branch of government, has clear authority to hire private lawyers and award contingency fees, the courts  the judicial branch  do not have the power to overrule him, Coble wrote.

The power to overrule another branch of government that has been duly elected by the people should be a rare and restrained move, Coble wrote.

The issue landed before Coble after the state Supreme Court last year reversed an earlier lower court decision that had killed the lawsuit. The Supreme Court sent the matter back to circuit court to consider the merits of the challenge, and Coble wound up with it.

Jim Griffin, a lawyer for plaintiffs, said he expects to appeal Cobles ruling, beginning with the mandatory motion asking the judge to reconsider his ruling.

Were reviewing the decision, said Griffin, who represents two watchdog plaintiffs, the S.C. Public Interest Foundation and John Crangle, a Columbia attorney who writes on public corruption and ethics matters.

An attorney generals spokeswoman said, Our office is pleased the Court recognized the Attorney Generals authority to enter contracts to serve the public interest.

Decision wrong

Crangle said Cobles decision is wrong. The Supreme Court remanded the case to Coble for a hearing on all our claims, and he held no hearing on any of our claims.

We have asked for discovery, weve asked how much time the lawyers put into the case, and they wont give us that information, Crangle said. At a minimum, the court should have granted us motions to compel discovery.

Cobles decision so grossly conflicts with the Supreme Courts clear September 2022 order that a trial court judge should consider the merits of the case that Crangle said he wanted to testify against Coble on Nov. 7, when Coble is slated to appear before the Judicial Merit Selection Commission to get approval for his next six-year term.

But, said Crangle, Cobles decision came out the afternoon of Oct. 20, a Friday. The deadline for submitting a request to appear before the Commission was noon on Monday, Oct. 23.

It was such a short time frame. I didnt have a chance to talk with my three attorneys, Crangle said.

Ironically, if he had filed a complaint, Crangle would have been required to keep the matter secret while the Commission investigated, under its rules. But since Crangle missed the deadline, he is free to talk to the media and air his complaint in public.

Crangle also said he would ask Rep. Todd Rutherford , D-Richland, who sits on the 10-member Judicial Merit Selection Commission, to recuse himself from voting on whether Coble should be recommended to the General Assembly for re-election to a six-year term. Coble is running unopposed for the Richland and Kershaw county judgeship, which pays approximately $200,000 a year.

Rutherford was hired by one of the two private law firms  Willoughby & Hoefer,  to represent the firm, and he argued the case in front of Coble earlier this month. The other law firm, Davidson, Wren & DeMasters, was represented by two of that firms lawyers, Will Davidson and Ken Woodington. The two firms split the $75 million fee but no one has made public the individual amounts the firms got.

Asked about Crangles suggestion that he recuse himself, Rutherford refused. Just because someone loses a case, they want to allege it could only have happened because I voted for him for his judgeship. Rutherford said he and other commission members judge candidates on their merits. Politics and favoritism dont enter the equation, he said.

Cobles decision

In his ruling, Coble granted the defendants  the attorney general and the two law firms  what is called summary judgment, which means he only concerned himself with the laws related to the case, not any facts.

And under South Carolina laws, Crangle and the watchdog group had no case, Coble concluded.

In the matter before this Court, there are no genuine issues of material fact. The only disputed issue is a question of law, Coble wrote.

It is beyond dispute that state law and court precedents give the attorney general, the states chief legal officer, the authority to hire private law firms and enter into contingency fee agreements with them, Coble wrote. The agreement in question required the federal government to pay the state $600 million from which $75 million (12.5 percent) was to be paid for attorney fees, and expenses, Coble wrote.

All that is needed to be known in this case, is known. This Court believes further discovery is not needed to decide the legal issue in this case, Coble wrote.

Moreover, there is no state law that constrains or limits the attorney generals litigation strategies or contingency fee agreements, Coble wrote.

Coble also wrote that when the law is so clear-cut, it is a delicate situation fraught with political, economic, and legal issues for any court to start weighing in on such issues.

Is the answer to run to the courts to solve problems that Plaintiffs allege were created by the executive branch when it created a contract that is not reasonable? This Court refuses to become a super-court and place itself in the untenable situation of saving the executive branch from itself, Coble wrote.

Coble also made it clear he was not like the majority of S.C. Supreme Court justices who in 2014 angered a conservative legislature when they decided a landmark public school education case, Abbeville School District vs. State of South Carolina. In that case, the 2014 high court ruled that the Legislature had failed  as required by the state constitution  to provide a minimally adequate education to poor and rural school districts.

Instead, wrote Coble, he sided with those justices who in 2017 overruled the Abbeville decision and called the 2014 decision an example of judicial overreach that encroached on the Legislatures ability to set the state budget, including how much money to spend on the states public schools, as bad as some might be.

Remedies exist to address any irregularities in the attorney generals authority to award contingency fees, Coble wrote. The General Assembly has the power to pass laws regulating contingency fees, and the public too has a say, Coble wrote.

The attorney general, as an elected official, is still accountable for any actions seen as reasonable or unreasonable, Coble wrote. This court will not place itself in the stead of the Legislature or the people.

Coble also noted that although Gov. Henry McMaster had objected to the settlement agreement, McMasters objection was political in nature because he had not joined the plaintiffs in their lawsuit.

In an Aug. 30, 2020, letter to Wilson objecting to the settlement, McMaster said his main concern was that Wilsons attorneys had not gotten sufficient assurances that the deadly plutonium would be removed from South Carolina in a timely manner.

Moreover, the governor wrote, then-President Trump, his top officials and the states Congressional delegation played a major role in arriving at the settlement, no matter what Wilson and his private attorneys claim they did.

I simply cannot endorse the payment of $75 million in attorneys fees under the circumstances, McMaster wrote in 2020.

In an interview, Rutherford said Coble clearly got the ruling right. He noted that Coble had written if a court could adjust the size of a legal fee downward, it could also adjust the fee upward, and that would not be right.

Crangle said Coble basically accepted Todd Rutherfords argument that the attorney general can do whatever he wants. That is the North Korean view of the law, that the big guys can do whatever they want. Its not the American view of the law where public officials are limited by laws and reason.

The lawsuit by Crangle and the Public Interest Foundation was filed just weeks after an August 2020 announcement that state and federal officials, as well as Wilsons private lawyers, had resolved what to do with the tons of plutonium the federal government had seemingly abandoned at the Savannah River Site. The plaintiffs tried to stop Wilsons transfer of $75 million to the law firms but were unsuccessful.

The federal government had planned to convert the plutonium, originally meant for nuclear weapons, into nuclear power plant fuel by 2022. But in the early 2000s, those plans failed.

The settlement gave the federal government until 2037 to remove the fuel. And under the settlement, federal authorities paid South Carolina $600 million, from which Wilson deducted $75 million for the law firms and forwarded the money to them.
Scholastic has reversed a decision to allow school districts running book fairs to opt in or out of selling a grouping of books with diverse titles about race and gender after facing widespread criticism, including from those in the publishing industry, educators and parents.

The childrens book publisher had grouped 64 titles, which feature Black and brown community themes and LGBTQ+ characters, as optional, citing legislation in more than 30 states restricting what content students can access.

I want to apologize on behalf of Scholastic, Ellie Berger, president of Scholastic Trade Publishing, said in a letter addressed to authors and illustrators. Even if the decision was made with good intention, we understand now that it was a mistake to segregate diverse books in an elective case.

It continued: We sincerely apologize to every author, illustrator, licensor, educator, librarian, parent, and reader who was hurt by our action.

Local book fair organizers select from a catalog of different Scholastic cases, or groupings of books, that are shipped as units to the schools for their events. This years offering included 13 modules of books, such as Fun Facts and Favorite Characters and Picture Book Combo. New this year was the diversity grouping labeled Share Every Story/Celebrate Every Voice Case.

Among the books included in the collection of separated titles were titles about the civil rights activist Ruby Bridges and Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, the first Black woman to sit on the Supreme Court.

A company spokesperson said that, as of last week, thousands of school districts had made a decision about whether to opt out of the 64 books, but declined to provide specific breakdowns. Each year, there are more than 120,000 Scholastic book fairs across the country. The diversity case will be discontinued starting in January, the company said.

The new grouping of diverse books drew intense criticism from Scholastic book fair organizers, librarians and prominent authors of childrens books, among others.

A week ago, the poet and author Amanda Gorman, whose book Change Sings: A Childrens Anthem was in the collection, posted a video on the X social media platform criticizing Scholastic for isolating diverse titles.

I was that little 8, 9-year-old kid saving up every single penny I had all year so that I could go to the Scholastic book fair not to buy any book but to finally buy a book with characters and voices that looked like me and sounded like me as a Black girl with a speech impediment, she said.

PEN America, a free speech organization that had opposed Scholastics initial policy, praised the companys decision to backtrack.

Scholastic recognized that, as difficult a bind as this pernicious legislation created, the right answer was not to become an accessory to censorship," said Jonathan Friedman, director of the groups free expression and education program. "Scholastic is an essential source of knowledge and a delight for countless children. We are glad to see them champion the freedom to read.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Chinese automaker Changan signs a land purchase agreement with Thailand's industrial estate developer WHA Group to build its new electric vehicle (EV) factory, in Bangkok, Thailand, Oct. 26, 2023. The 40-hectare plant is located in Thailand's eastern Rayong province, part of the country's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), a special development zone. (Xinhua/Rachen Sageamsak)

BANGKOK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese automaker Changan on Thursday signed a land purchase agreement with Thailand's industrial estate developer WHA Group to build its new electric vehicle (EV) factory in the Southeast Asian country.

The 40-hectare plant is located in Thailand's eastern Rayong province, part of the country's Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), a special development zone.

Scheduled to start operation in 2025 with an initial capacity of 100,000 units per year, the plant will be a production base for electrified vehicles to supply the Thai market and export to neighboring ASEAN and other markets including Australia, New Zealand and Britain.

Changan's investment highlights the role of Thailand in the EV industry on a global stage. This also reflects the company's confidence in the country and will promote the transformation of Thailand's automotive industry, said Jareeporn Jarukornsakul, WHA's chairman and Group CEO.

Strategic location in the EEC-promoted zones for proactive policy to promote the EV industry as well as transportation facilities and infrastructure, are key reasons that support the investment decision worth 8.86 billion baht (about 244 million U.S. dollars) in the first phase, said Shen Xinghua, managing director of Changan Auto Southeast Asia.

He noted that this is the first overseas EV factory, and Changan's entry into Thailand will bring much more jobs for the locals, as well as promote the development of Thailand's EV industry chain and supply chain.

Thailand has long been a major automobile production base in Southeast Asia due to its industrial chain and geographical advantages.

Under the government's investment promotion, which aims to produce EVs for 30 percent of all vehicles in the kingdom by 2030. In addition to Changan, Chinese carmakers such as Great Wall and BYD have built plants in Thailand and launched EVs. According to the Federation of Thai Industries, in the first half of this year, Chinese brands accounted for over 70 percent of Thailand's EV sales. 
Broward School Board member Brenda Fam will face no ethics violations related to an allegation that she touched the buttocks of an 18-year-old student.

The Ethics Commission concluded that while Fam touched the student, it appeared to be unintentional and the wrongful intent necessary for a violation is not present, according to a report.

The incident happened at a student leadership event March 27 at the Signature Grand in Davie. The student alerted a district employee the next day, and his principal asked him to write a statement.

The student wrote that Fam reached her hand to my bottom area and squeezed  and then said, Oh my God, I just pulled a Zeman. Im so sorry.'

The statement refers to School Board member Allen Zeman, who was accused of patting a male district employee on the buttocks in December. The employee didnt file a complaint, but the incident became publicized as then-Superintendent Vickie Cartwright was in separation negotiations and some board members accused her of trying to use the incident as leverage.

After the allegation against Fam surfaced, the School Board considered in April hiring an outside investigator to review both cases but ultimately decided to turn them over to the Ethics Commission. The commission ruled in August there was no probable cause to cite Zeman for a violation.

In the Fam case, the Ethics Commission spoke with the students father, who described the incident as an accident, according to the report.

According to the father, his child explained to him that [Fam] lost her balance, and, as she began to fall, she reached out, accidentally touching the childs lower back area, the report said, adding the student believes the actions were unintentional, and not sexual.

The father told the investigator his son has graduated, is in college now and didnt want to pursue the matter any further.

The father explained that he, and his child, never believed this incident would rise to the level it reached because they believed this was an unintentional accident, the report said.

Fam could not be reached by the Sun Sentinel on Wednesday. She told an investigator she thought the allegation was motivated by politics. Fam, a Republican, is the most outspoken conservative on a majority-Democrat board.

Fam told the investigator the allegation made against her is false, and, as a result, its led to being heavily scrutinized in the publics eye, the report said.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said Thursday the U.S. is ahead of China on artificial intelligence (AI), but he warned that the gap is narrowing and the U.S. has to keep pushing ahead.

If we dont do anything, Chinas going to get ahead of us, Schumer said during an interview at a Washington Post Live event.

If you talk to our leading experts, whether its the [Department of Defense], [National Security Agency], or [Central Intelligence Agency], or any of those places, were ahead. But the gap is narrowing. We cannot sit, [cannot] just relax, he added.

Schumer has been leading on AI regulation talks along with a bipartisan group of lawmakers he assembled that includes Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).

Part of the plan includes hosting a series of AI Insight Forums that bring together stakeholders from tech companies, civil rights groups and academia to meet with Senators to discuss the benefits and risks of AI.

The second AI forum was held Tuesday.

During Tuesdays forum, Schumer said there was bipartisan consensus that the government needs to be involved with AI regulation, and that the government needs significant resources for the task.

The minimum number that was talked about was $32 billion, Schumer said, adding that even Republicans in the room agreed.

But lawmakers are still weighing where, and how, to invest any funding for AI.

The next AI Insight Forum will be held Wednesday, Schumer said. Wednesdays forum will focus on two topics: the impacts of AI on the workforce and areas of high impact.

Workforce is important, and thats positive and negative. How do we train people, because theres going to be millions of new jobs created by AI, but also how do we deal with people who might lose their jobs because of AI? Schumer said.

High-impact areas include sectors such as finance and health care, where AI is already having an effect, Schumer said. The forum will look at how AI is being deployed and if there are built-in biases impacting individuals.

A future forum will be held on election reform, he said.

Schumer said legislation to regulate the use of generative AI in elections is an area lawmakers may have to move the most quickly on with the 2024 election on the horizon.

Already, 2024 candidates have used generative AI. The ability for the realistic technology to falsely depict a public figure saying or doing something is adding to concerns about the spread of disinformation online.

A bipartisan bill proposed by Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Chris Coons (D-De.) and Susan Collins (R-Maine) aims to ban the use of deceptive AI-generated content in political ads.

Schumer didnt share his thoughts on the specific proposal, but he reiterated that the AI forums are meant to augment work by committees rather than replace it.

At the same time as Congress weighs regulation, the Biden administration has been taking steps toward action on AI.

In July, the White House secured commitments from top tech companies leading on AI geared at managing AI risks.

President Biden has also said he would be taking executive action on AI. The Washington Post reported Thursday that the president will unveil a sweeping AI executive order Monday.

Schumer, however, said there is a limit to what can be done through an executive order.

Theyre concerned and theyre doing a lot regulatorily, but everyone admits the only real answer is legislative, he said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Paleontologists dug up a bone in 2005 that they couldn't identify until recently.

The bone is the first example of a larynx in reptilian dinosaurs that paleontologists have ever found.

A larynx helps produce sound, and the shape of this one suggests the dino may have made bird-like noises.

You feel the rumbling steps of a sedan-sized dinosaur as it sneaks up behind you, and flinch, preparing for what "Jurassic Park" said would happen next  the roar.

But when you turn to face the scaly beast, it opens up its mouth and lets out little peeps, like a robin.

Based on a fossil from a Pinacosaurus grangeri, paleontologists think that some large dinosaurs might have chirped like birds, not roared like lions.

The fossil is the first intact larynx bone from a dinosaur ever found, the scientists said in their study which was published in the journal Nature earlier this year.

The "unique and beautiful" specimen is part of a voice box, Junki Yoshida, a paleontologist at Hokkaido University Museum in Japan who led the research, said in a presentation at the American Museum of Natural History on Tuesday.

How they found the bone and discovered its purpose

A scan of the fossilized larynx of the Ankylosaurus dinosaur Pinacosaurus grangeri. Michael DEmic

When this small triangular fossil was originally discovered in the Gobi desert in 2005, Yoshida said, the researchers identified it as part of an Ankylosaurus dinosaur called Pinacosaurus grangeri.

These armored mid-sized dinosaurs were about 16 feet long and weighed as much as 4,200 pounds.

They initially thought the bone they found was used in a different part of the dinosaur's throat, for breathing, Yoshida said.

However, after comparing the fossil to a hundred breathing bones of similar species, they weren't satisfied that they had it right.

It's at this point that Yoshida thought that the bone might be part of a different structure.

When he started analyzing the specimen against the voice boxes of birds related to dinosaurs, it all fell into place  the bone wasn't used to help the dino breathe, it was used to help it make noise, he said.

The shape of the bone is ideal for making bird-like noises, the paper said.

Why is this the first time they found this bone

It's rare for researchers to find fossils from voice boxes because they're made partially of cartilage, which usually deteriorates over time.

The only bones of this sort that they've found before have been from birds, not from reptilian dinos.

Though there's still more that researchers have to understand in order to determine exactly how the dinosaurs would've vocalized Yoshida said, "This is the first step to understand dinosaur voices."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Presidential candidate Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said foreign students protesting at U.S. colleges against Israel amid its war with Hamas in Gaza should be deported.

Any time you actually encourage for the genocide, the elimination of an entire race of people, any time you support terrorism and encourage murder, there should be consequences, Scott said in a Fox News interview Wednesday. It should be consequences for those students. And it should be consequences for those universities.

The comments follow a similar sentiment from fellow GOP hopeful Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), who demanded Wednesday that a Florida chapter of the pro-Palestinian student organization Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) be disbanded.

Scott previously said he would withhold Pell grants from universities that did not act to prevent antisemitism on campus, referring to the protests.

The conflict in Gaza began Oct. 7 when Hamas  which controls the Gaza Strip  launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,400 Israelis, most of them civilians. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said responding strikes from Israel have so far killed nearly 5,800 Palestinians, including more than 2,300 children.

While organizations like SJP  which referred to Hamas as the Palestinian resistance and explicitly supported it  have garnered criticism, many other students who have protested against the war have not endorsed Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist group by both the U.S. and European Union.

That has created First Amendment concerns for political speech on college campuses.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a free speech group, called Floridas directive to abolish the SJP unconstitutional and dangerous.

If it goes unchallenged, no ones political beliefs will be safe from government suppression, the group said in a statement.

SJPs chapter at George Washington University also came under fire Wednesday after a small number of its members projected messages criticizing the university and the Israeli government on a campus building.

Also in the Wednesday interview, Scott criticized President Bidens $100 billion supplementary budget request, which includes $14 billion intended for Israel. Scott said the Israel funding should not be tied to other issues.

The focus should be on Israel. We should have a stand-alone package for Israel, he said. We know that that would unite the vast majority of the House and the Senate, and the president could sign it.

We should provide Israel with a clearer picture of a unified America in support of their efforts to eliminate Hamas as a threat for the rest of Israels existence, which requires the wiping Hamas off the map, he continued.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This embedded content is not available in your region.

The Scottish government has been accused of not handing over WhatsApp messages to the UK Covid Inquiry.

Jamie Dawson KC, the counsel to the inquiry, also said it was "surprising" that so many messages from politicians and officials had been deleted.

First Minister Humza Yousaf said he took Mr Dawson's comments "very seriously" and would investigate.

He also pledged that "all relevant information" of any type will be handed over.

Mr Yousaf, who became health secretary in 2021 while pandemic restrictions were still in place, said his statement to the inquiry was over 100 pages long.

Speaking at a session of the inquiry in London, Mr Dawson said witness statements from key decisions makers suggested that informal communications such as WhatsApp, texts, Microsoft Teams and Signal were used to discuss the Scottish government's Covid response during the pandemic.

It has now emerged that there were at least 137 message groups that were being used, he added.

The inquiry therefore asked 70 individuals for their messages, as well as information on what groups they were members of and if such groups still existed or not and why some messages were deleted.

Mr Dawson said: "A clear theme of the overall response received from and via the Scottish government is that although such messaging systems were used in the pandemic response, including by some key decision makers and others, generally very few messages appear to have been retained.

"This is surprising, in particular, in light of the apparent availability of such messages in high volumes within the UK government."

Analysis box by Glenn Campbell, BBC Scotland political editor

Humza Yousaf may have renewed a pledge to handover "all relevant information" to the official pandemic inquiries.

But it is far from clear that either the UK or Scottish investigations will get everything they want from the Scottish government.

Why not? Because the UK inquiry has already established that while informal messaging was used by some of those handling the Scottish response to Covid-19, "generally very few messages appear to have been retained".

While the Scottish government insists it does not operate a culture of making decisions via WhatsApp, the inquiry teams would like to be in a position to judge for themselves.

In an effort to preserve evidence, the Scottish inquiry issued a "do not destroy" order at the start of August 2022 and it could be an offence for witnesses to have deleted Covid-related messages after that date.

It is less clear what, if anything, could be done about anyone who might have operated a policy of delete-as-you-go throughout the pandemic.

Mr Dawson also said that so far only one individual has voluntarily provided access to "her" messages, but even those were limited without explanation to a five month period.

He added that "very considerable efforts" had been made by inquiry officials to try to get access to all of the information it needed but that "the detail required to understand the full picture has not yet been forthcoming"

Mr Dawson said: "As a result the inquiry is currently considering what steps to take next."

The UK Covid Inquiry is investigating the UK's response to and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, with a Scottish inquiry also now under way that is specifically looking at decisions taken by the Scottish government.

Former First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon gave evidence in person to the inquiry

The issue was raised during First Minister's Questions by Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross, who asked Mr Yousaf why the inquiry had not received the information it had requested.

He said: "Refusing to hand over this information would not only be an insult to grieving families it would not only be a shocking display of secrecy it would potentially break the law."

Mr Yousaf said it is not his government that has broken the law over Covid and any concerns raised by bereaved families will be "fully investigated".

Responding to the claims, he said: "Any potentially relevant information that we hold, be it in WhatsApp, be it in email, be it in any correspondence - we will hand over and have handed over."

The first minister said there was a process for handing over information which he would "fully cooperate with".

'Serious matter'

Speaking to reporters after the session, Mr Yousaf repeated that the concerns raised by Mr Dawson were a "serious matter" and would be investigated.

He added that the Scottish government did not "routinely conduct parliamentary business through WhatsApp" and said it would continue to co-operate with both the Scottish and UK Covid inquiries.

The UK inquiry has already heard from a number of people involved in Scotland's response to the pandemic - including former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The UK government was taken to court after it refused to hand over former Prime Minister Boris Johnson's messages to the court, stating the messages were irrelevant.

However, the High Court ruled against the government stating it was up to the inquiry chair, Baroness Hallett to decide whether the material was relevant or not.
Sean Hannity offers some truly pathetic advice to those afraid of mass shootings: Take up mixed martial arts!

On Wednesday evening, at least 18 people were killed in two mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine. The alleged perpetratorwho at the time of writing, is still being searched for by law enforcementreportedly used a semiautomatic rifle.



Just hours later, Hannity used his Fox News show to express his frustration at the speed that a mass shooting becomes politicized, before careening into his real complaint: the victims lack of preparedness in the face of a semiautomatic firearm.

And then I always ask the question, when something like this happens, what is your plan? What do you do? Hannity said to his guest, Nikki Haley.



The Fox News millionaire went on to describe his foolproof plan in case of such an incident.

I have a personal security plan. I train in mixed martial arts. Ive been a big believer in the Second Amendment for a long time, with the prayer that I never would have to use it, he said.

If Hannity is bothered by the speed at which mass shootings inspire calls for gun reform, is it fair to say that we are frustrated at the speed at which he offers ridiculous and tasteless advice?

This year, there have been 565 mass shootings in the United States.
Seattle homicide detectives are searching for information related to 45-year-old Matthew Antles who was found unconscious in Capitol Hill on Oct. 5th.

Later, officials say they determined he had been shot.

East Precinct patrol officers responded to the reports of an unconscious man in the 700 block of East Roy Street around 7 p.m.

The Seattle Fire Department was also at the scene and took Antles to Harborview Medical Center for treatment.

During his time in the hospital, Antles never regained consciousness and died on Oct. 17.

The King County Medical Examiners Office says that his death was a homicide.

Police said Antles was unhoused and usually lived in a hammock in Cal Anderson Park.

Homicide detectives are looking for anyone who has information about the death.

If you can help SPD asks that you call the Violent Crimes Tip Line at (206) 233-5000.
Springfield businessman Mike Hamra launched a campaign for governor on Thursday, promising to get Missouri back on track and becoming the second Democrat to enter the 2024 race.

The 55-year-old will compete for Democratic supporters with House Minority Leader Crystal Quade , a fellow Springfield resident who jumped into the race in July.

In addition to Quade, the race for governor in Missouri already features three of the states top Republicans Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and state Sen. Bill Eigel.

Im running for governor because I believe Im the best candidate to put our state on a path towards greater opportunity and prosperity, Hamra said in a phone interview. Missouri is a good place, but it could be a much better place.

Hamra is the CEO of Hamra Enterprises, a Springfield-based hospitality company that operates restaurants such as Wendys, Panera Bread and Noodles & Company locations.

In a phone interview, he touted his experience as the CEO of a family business. He said he has a love and passion for supporting people.

Asked about his campaign priorities, Hamra pointed to helping people find better job opportunities, particularly competitive wages and benefits. He also said the state needs to focus on schools, ensuring that Missouri kids receive a good education.

A press release announcing his campaign touted a need to make child care and health care more affordable. Hamra, in the release, also said he was in favor of restoring the right for women to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions  indicating that he would push against the states near-total ban on abortion.

Hamra, in the interview, declined to attack Quade, one of the most prominent Democrats in the General Assembly. During her time in office, she has been a strong advocate for abortion rights, gun reform and child care aid.

At the end of the day, I do feel like Im the best person for the job, he said, when asked about Quade.

Both of the Springfield Democrats will face an uphill battle to take the governors office. Republicans hold every statewide office and a supermajority in both chambers of the General Assembly. Then-Auditor Nicole Galloway was the last Democrat to win a statewide office back in 2018.

Galloway, viewed at the time as a serious contender to take the office, lost the 2020 race for governor to incumbent Gov. Mike Parson , a Republican, by more than 16 percentage points. Parson terms out of office in 2025.

Hamra also declined to take shots at his Republican opponents, saying he didnt want to get involved in ideological bickering.

We need to stop all the political bickering and the mudslinging and we need to work to support people in the state of Missouri, he said.

Hamra has degrees from Ohio Wesleyan University, the University of Missouri School of Law and Kennesaw State University.

Before working in Missouri, Hamra lived in Washington, D.C., where he worked in the U.S. Department of Commerce in the Clinton Administration. He also served as chief of staff and legal advisor for the Federal Communications Commissions Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, according to his Linkedin profile.

Hamra and his wife, Eileen, live in Springfield with their four children and two rescue dogs.
More than 1,200 people applied to be a part of Eudoras Mississippi Brasserie, which will have its grand opening Nov. 15 in the former Fine & Dandy location in The District at Eastover in Jackson.

When word got out that owner Tyler Alford would be paying a guaranteed minimum of $16.57 an hour, the lines began to form.

Alford and his team settled on around 100 employees total as they begin the process of a soft opening leading to big opening in a few weeks.

Alford says Eudora's becomes the first business in Mississippi to become living wage certified, according to the Living Wage Network, which recognizes employers who pay workers fairly.

Server Saeeda Wansley (middle), 29, claps as Chef Tab Fuqua sets out the boudin-stuffed quail dish for the employees to try at Eudora's in The District at Eastover in Jackson on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

"We want a workplace that honors the people who are working here and recognizes them as valuable," said Alford, whose prior organization, Tupelo Honey, also had a Certified Living Wage policy. "We want them to want to be here and to play a part in our success as their own success."

Alford coming home to open restaurant: Eudoras Mississippi Brasserie expects fall opening in former Fine & Dandy location

Alford, who is a serial entrepreneur, having been a part of opening 22 restaurants in his career, said that he had been looking at properties in Jackson since 2019 but had not come upon the perfect location, until the property at The District.

"That restaurant property is phenomenal," said Alford, who ate at Fine & Dandy before it closed. "The District is a really well-structured development. Everything starts with a hope and a dream, but once we got into conversations with Duckworth Realty, we realized this really could happen. This is a great space, a great opportunity and everything began to fall in line."

While paying fair salaries is part of the mission, so is giving back as Alford said there will be one cocktail each month in which a portion of the proceeds from its sale will go to a charity. When Eudora's opens, the first to have that honor will be Roses Are Blue, a Paper Plane drink that combines bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Aperol and fresh lemon juice. Five dollars from each sale of Roses are Blue for the first month will go to Stewpot Community Services in Jackson.

This project is almost coming back home for Alford, who went to school at Millsaps College, where he met his wife, Sara, who is a Jackson native. He has moved back from Montana where he had been for several years.

They have settled in with their son Foxen and are ready to make a mark on the community.

Southern meets Creole in Vicksburg: This MS restaurant serves Southern and Creole cuisine and the main ingredient is love

"This is the best team I have ever assembled," Alford said this week as he was tending to everything from drink machines to taste testing, preparing for a full-scale dinner testing later in the week. "I am excited to see all of them shine here as they all have taken ownership in this project."

Tab Fuqua is tasked as Chef Partner, who is coming to Jackson from New Orleans but has worked all over including in Natchez around 2008-09. Alford is high on Fuqua and hopeful that Fuqua could be nominated for a James Beard Award in the next two years.

Beard award winner in Jackson: Elvie's chef plans to stay in city of Jackson, has no interest in chasing money elsewhere

The James Beard Foundation Awards is one of the highest honors in the culinary profession and recognizes chefs, restaurateurs, authors and journalists in the United States.

"We are just going to let him loose and let him do what he does best," Alford said. "He's the best I have ever seen, and we could not be luckier than to have him here with us."

When asked what would be the first thing a patron should order when coming to Eudora's, Fuqua isn't shy.

"Boudin stuffed quail, no doubt," Fuqua said. "But the duck confit will be great as well. This is going to be great food and the people we have here are a real dream to have."

Eudora's offers steak frites in The District at Eastover in Jackson seen on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

Chef de Cuisine on staff is Clay Strickland, who said he wanted to be a part of this team from the very beginning.

"You want to be somewhere like this where you are valued for your talents, but also as a person. Tyler makes that clear from the very beginning," said Strickland, who is coming to Eudora's from a previous stint in South Louisiana. He also spent time in Natchez. "There are a lot of great places to eat in Jackson but this is going to be different."

There is even talk among the crew of creating a culinary society in the Jackson area as more and more great chefs have come to the area to open restaurants.

"At our core, how we treat people and how we treat each other is important to us," Alford said. "We just want the people who come here to work to be happy, and we think that will translate to how we do business."

Ross Reily can be reached by email at rreily@gannett.com or at 601-573-2952. You can follow him on Twitter @GreenOkra1.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Eudora's restaurant is all set to open in Jackson MS
TechCrunch

The world is watching the humanitarian crisis in Gaza unfold in real time through firsthand accounts documented on, of all places, Snapchat. Israel has retaliated against Hamas October 7 attack with unprecedented force against the Palestinian territory, claiming over 9,000 Palestinian lives according to Gaza Health Ministry numbers reported by the Associated Press. The Committee to Protect Journalists reports that at least 30 journalists have been killed since Israels bombardment and total blockade of the region began, and journalists in Gaza say that without consistent access to food, water and power, its becoming impossible to continue reporting.
FIRST ON FOX: Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, sent a letter to the Department of Education Thursday urging stronger protections for Jewish students on college campuses across the country.

"Antisemitism has no place on our college campuses, or anywhere. Iran wants chaos, and protests are fueling that at home and abroad," Ernst told Fox News Digital in a statement.

Ernst questioned what the department is doing to enforce Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, a federal law in the United States that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.

Her letter comes as a wave of pro-Palestinian "resistance" protests in support of Hamas have sprung up in college campuses across the country after Hamas launched a surprise terrorist attack in Israel on Oct. 7 killing 1,400 people and wounding thousands others.

SEN. HAWLEY CALLS OUT PALESTINIAN STUDENT GROUP FOR ANTI-ISRAEL MESSAGES ON CAMPUS BUILDING

U.S. Senator Joni Ernst sends letter to US Dept. of Education urging protection for Jewish students against antisemitism.

"In the aftermath of this brutal terrorist attack, university faculty and student organizations supporting Palestinians held National Day of Resistance events on many American college campuses," Ernst wrote. "These events attempted to justify the recent mass murder of Jews  the most in a single day since the Holocaust."

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

In May 2023, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Catherine Lhamon clarified that Title VI safeguards students from discrimination, including harassment, based on factors like shared ancestry, ethnic characteristics, citizenship in a country with a dominant religion, or distinct religious identity.

"Therefore, during a flood of antisemitic attacks on college campuses  above and beyond the already-rising antisemitism facing Jewish students  we are incredibly disappointed in the Departments lack of response, despite legal obligations under Title VI," she said.

Ernst pointed out several instances of incidents involving Jewish students, including a students dorm room door set on fire.

GOP CHAIRMAN FED UP WITH STUDENTS' ANTI-ISRAEL STANCE WANTS TO MAKE COLLEGES PAY: 'DISGUSTED'

"At Stanford University, a professor encouraged Jewish students to stand in a corner alone in a purported academic exercise to show how Israel treats Palestinians. A professor and faculty advisor at the University of California Davis wrote a social media post appearing to call for Zionist journalists and their children to be murdered," she wrote.

Ernst requested a briefing by Nov. 9, 2023, to address the department's strategy for advancing the Antisemitism Awareness Campaign in light of escalating antisemitism in educational institutions nationwide, as well as the provision of data on antisemitic-related complaints to the Office of Civil Rights (OCR).

Additionally, clarification is sought on whether OCR has initiated any compliance reviews in response to complaints of antisemitic harassment, and if any directed investigations have been launched based on news reports of such incidents, the letter states.



HUNDREDS OF HARVARD FACULTY SIGN LETTER REBUKING UNIVERSITY LEADERS' TEPID RESPONSE TO HAMAS 'WAR CRIMES'

People protest for and against Palestine in Times Square on Friday, Oct. 13, 2023 in Manhattan, New York.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., one of the co-sponsors of the letter, said in a statement: "The threats and violence against Jewish and Israeli students on college campuses is despicable. The Biden Department of Education needs to fulfill their legal responsibility to ensure federally funded colleges are providing a safe learning environment free of antisemitism and violence."

The letter is signed by Sens. Jim Risch, R-Ohio, Ted Cruz, R-Tx., Tim Scott, R-S.C., Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.V., Roger Wicker, R-MI., Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, Ted Budd, R-N.C., John Cornyn, R-Tx., Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., Katie Britt, R-Ala., and Deb Fischer, R-Nebraska.

Last week, Maryland Democrat Sen. Chris Van Hollen blocked a resolution brought forth by Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., to condemn antisemitism across college campuses. Earlier this month, Hawley also tapped the Department of Justice to investigate whether pro-Palestinian student groups involved in protests have any financial ties to Hamas.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Department of Education for comment.





Original article source: Sen Ernst urges Biden admin to protect Jewish college students from 'flood of antisemitic attacks'
Sen. Josh Hawley called out George Washington University for allowing Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) to project anti-Israel messaging on one of its campus buildings before the police shut them down Tuesday night.

"Glory to our martyrs," "Divestment from Zionist genocide now," and "Free Palestine from the River to the Sea," were projected in large letters on the Gelman Library building in Washington, D.C

Hawley, who introduced a Senate resolution last week to condemn antisemitism on college campuses last week, posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: "Yet Senate Democrats BLOCKED my resolution last week condemning this filth."

GOP CHAIRMAN FED UP WITH STUDENTS' ANTI-ISRAEL STANCE WANTS TO MAKE COLLEGES PAY: 'DISGUSTED'

U.S. Senator Josh Hawley, R-Mo., asks questions at a committee hearing on data security at Twitter.

"Will GW leadership condemn this?" Hawley asked.

Stop Antisemitism, a nonprofit organization, also condemned the students in a post to X Tuesday night.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"George Washington University - students are projecting horrifying messages onto a school library building glorifying Hamas terrorists that beheaded babies, raped teenage girls, and murdered 1400+ people. We call on President @PresidentofGW to immediately expel those involved."

The resolution, for which Hawley sought unanimous consent, comes as pro-Palestinian protests have erupted on college campuses after the deadly surprise attack on Israel carried out by Hamas terrorists that killed and wounded thousands in Israel Oct. 7.

HUNDREDS OF HARVARD FACULTY SIGN LETTER REBUKING UNIVERSITY LEADERS' TEPID RESPONSE TO HAMAS 'WAR CRIMES'

George Washington University students hold a vigil for Palestinian "martyrs."

"Students at Ohio State praised the heroic resistance in Gaza," Hawley said on the floor. "Heroic  it's now heroic  to massacre Jews in cold blood. It's now heroic to try and carry out a genocide against Jewish people."

Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., blocked the unanimous consent resolution, noting most of the protests were not violent, "as repugnant as some of them were in terms of the words."

He said the resolution would "smear all of the students who engage in these protests," potentially violating First Amendment rights.

"I would stand with my colleagues in standing up to hateful rhetoric, condemning antisemitism," Van Hollen said. "But what this resolution does is not that."

Hawley called it a "failure of moral nerve."

DEMOCRAT BLOCKS HAWLEY'S RESOLUTION TO CONDEMN ANTISEMITISM ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES

George Washington University students chant "from the river to the sea Palestine will be free."

Earlier in October, Hawley sent a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland calling for the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate potential financial ties between anti-Israel student groups on college campuses and the Islamic militant group Hamas.

Students for Justice in Palestine previously told Fox News Digital in a statement: "National Students for Justice in Palestine has zero financial or political ties to Hamas or any other institution within Palestine."

"In addition, SJP chapters do not have a financial relationship with or receive funding from National SJP. These allegations are completely unfounded and are only used to further delegitimize student voices and infringe upon Palestinian-Americans' First Amendment rights," a spokesperson said.

Fox News Digital has reached out to GWU and SJP for comment.





Original article source: Sen. Hawley calls out Palestinian student group for anti-Israel messages on campus building
The Senate passed an amendment introduced by Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., that protects veterans' Second Amendment rights if the Department of Veterans Affairs steps in to manage their financial benefits.

The Senate voted 53 to 45 Wednesday in approval of the amendment.

"Veterans who sacrificed to defend our Constitution shouldnt see their own rights rest on the judgment of unelected bureaucratsbut right now, they do," Kennedy told Fox News Digital on Wednesday.

"My amendment would prevent government workers from unduly stripping veterans of their right to bear arms. Every veteran who bravely serves our country has earned VA benefits, and its wrong for the government to punish veterans who get a helping hand to manage those resources."

SEN. JOHN KENNEDY: 'WE DO NOT NEED MORE GUN CONTROL, WE NEED MORE IDIOT CONTROL'

Senator John Kennedy, R-LA, speaks during a hearing at the U.S. Capitol.

Under current law, the Department of Veterans Affairs reports a veteran's name to the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System when they seek help managing their finances in a conservatorship.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

"If a veteran who defended this country has to go to the VA and ask for help managing his or her financial affairs, the VA automatically reports that veteran to the FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System . . . and that veteran loses his firearm," Kennedy said on the floor of the Senate Wednesday. "Automatically. No due process."

VETERANS SUE BIDEN ADMINISTRATION OVER NEW GUN RESTRICTION

The amendment was spearheaded by Kennedy and fellow Republican Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, who championed the measure in June as one that would "would prevent government workers from unduly stripping veterans of their right to bear arms."

"All our amendment would do, would be able would be to say: The VA, just because you've asked for help with your money, can not automatically take away your firearm or report you to [the FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System] unless a judge has ruled that that veteran is a danger to himself or to others," Kennedy said on the Senate floor Wednesday.

The executive director of the NRA's Institute for Legislative Action, the gun rights group's lobbying arm, applauded the amendment's passage and Sens. Kennedy and Moran for leading the charge on the bill.

HOUSE REPUBLICANS NOTCH WIN IN EFFORT TO OVERTURN BIDEN ADMIN'S 'UNCONSTITUTIONAL' PISTOL BRACE RULE

"The men and women who volunteer to defend the Constitution deserve to be protected by the same Constitution for which they risk life and limb," NRA-ILA Executive Director Randy Kozuch exclusively told Fox News Digital Wednesday.

"It is a national embarrassment that anti-gun bureaucrats in Washington, D.C., have gotten away with unilaterally stripping veterans of their rights for decades. On behalf of millions of NRA members, many of whom are veterans, we applaud Senators Kennedy and Moran for leading on this important issue," Kozuch continued.

NEW YORK'S STRICT GUN LAWS LEAVE VETERANS FEARFUL THEY COULD WIND UP IN JAIL OVER 21-GUN FUNERAL SALUTE

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs building in Washington, D.C. ALASTAIR PIKE/AFP via Getty Images)

Democratic Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy argued against the amendment Wednesday, claiming it would arm "mentally incompetent" veterans and lead to "a death sentence for scores of deeply mentally ill veterans."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE US NEWS

The passage comes after Kennedy said last week that he had struck a deal with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on the amendment after holding up the bill funding the departments of Veterans Affairs, Agriculture, Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and military construction, the Hill previously reported.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE US NEWS

"The original position was they wanted me to pull my amendment down, and I said No," he told the Hill.





Original article source: Senate passes Kennedy amendment protecting veterans' Second Amendment rights
WASHINGTON  The Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly voted down a bill 11-86 that would have required President Joe Biden to withdraw U.S. troops from Niger.

Sen. Rand Paul , R-Ky., secured a vote on the bill after Niger became the latest west African country to succumb to a coup in July, when a military junta ousted and detained democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.

If were going to send someones son or daughter to a foreign country, if they are going to risk their life, Congress should vote on them being there, Paul told Defense News. Theyre ruled by a military junta led by a guy that we trained in democracy training over here.

Multiple members of the junta, most prominently Brig. Gen. Moussa Salaou Barmou who led Nigers special operations forces and is now the chief of defense, have received U.S. military training.

The Economic Community of West African States expelled Niger from the bloc after the coup and threatened military intervention to restore Bazoum to power. But the head of Ghanas Army staff, Maj. Gen. Thomas Oppong-Peprah, told Defense News earlier this month the bloc is now prioritizing a diplomatic effort to restore Nigers democracy.

The State Department formally declared a coup in Niger earlier this month, suspending most U.S. assistance. However, the U.S. still has roughly 1,100 troops stationed in Niger. U.S. Africa Command in September repositioned assets and personnel away from the capital Niamey to Agadez, a drone base roughly 570 miles away.

The U.S. first stationed troops in Niger in 2013 as part of its counterterrorism mission across Africa, citing as the legal justification the 2001 military authorization Congress passed in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks to target al-Qaida in Afghanistan. Four presidents have used the 2001 military authorization to justify more than 40 military operations in at least 19 countries across the globe, including Niger.

But Pauls resolution, which the Senate voted down, stated the 2001 military authorization does not apply to Niger.

Islamic State militants killed four U.S. troops and four Nigeriens in a 2017 ambush.

We had four die back in 2017, and when they did half the people who piped up didnt even know they were there, said Paul. Theres also a question  theres a drone air force base there  whether or not we should just be droning people all over Africa. Accidents happen. Sometimes you hit the right person. Sometimes you hit the wrong person.

He pointed to a drone strike that killed an aid worker and nine other people when the Pentagon mistook him for an Islamic State operative during Bidens 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal.

But the majority of senators argued in favor of keeping U.S. troops in Niger, despite the coup, to continue counterterrorism operations.

The country wants American troops there stopping terrorists, providing safety, and were not going to abandon the Sahel part of Africa, Senate Foreign Relations Chairman Ben Cardin, D-Md., told Defense News. It is important for us to maintain our presence to work to reduce violence in the region.

However, he stressed that we cannot give comfort to those whove committed a coup, and called for individual sanctions against the junta leaders.

Congress has shown some interest in reasserting its power over war-making authorities in recent years, but votes to withdraw troops from individual countries have repeatedly failed during the Biden administration. The House earlier this year voted down two such war powers resolutions from Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla.

The House in April voted 103-321 against a Gaetz resolution to withdraw several hundred U.S. troops stationed in war-torn Somalia and in March 101-321 against removing the roughly 900 troops stationed in Syria.

U.S. troops in Syria and Iraq often come under fire from Iran-backed militias operating in both countries. Those attacks have intensified since the bloody Israel-Hamas war erupted earlier this month, raising fears of a broader Middle East war.

House Foreign Affairs Chairman Mike McCaul, R-Texas, has started drafting legislation that would authorize Biden to attack Iran-backed proxies, including Lebanons paramilitary group Hezbollah, throughout the Middle East.

Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, has also introduced a bill that would authorize the president to attack drug cartels in Mexico, a proposal all the leading Republican presidential candidates have endorsed to varying degrees.

The House has not brought either proposal forward for a vote. For his part, Paul noted he opposes both the potential Middle East and Mexico military authorizations.
Senators joke about all the matchmaking in Grassleys office: 20 marriages!

Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) quipped Thursday that he may start looking for love by working in the office of a Republican colleague known for producing romantic unions.

Before getting to the agenda during a Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) lauded efforts by lawmakers to reach across the aisle.

I think one of the things thats come out of these hearings that has been truly beneficial is bipartisan legislation, Hawley said.

Thats when Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) chimed in.

As long as were making bipartisan kudos, I want to make sure that we recognize that Sen. [Chuck] Grassley s office has been noted to be the hottest spot for people coming to Washington to find each other and get married, Whitehouse said.

Bravo, Chuck, Whitehouse added to the Iowa Republican.

Twenty marriages! Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) exclaimed of Grassleys matchmaking track record.

Mr. Chairman, Booker said to panel Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).

After being recognized by Durbin, Booker cracked to laughs, Id just like to know if theres any job openings in Sen. Grassleys office?

Booker, one of the upper chambers bachelors, dated actor Rosario Dawson for more than two years before the pair split last year.

Senator, well have to get you an Iowa mailing address, Durbin told Booker.

Grassley, 90, told The Washington Post in a story last week on the staggering amount of I dos in his office that the first married couple met during his 1980 Senate campaign.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
South Korea, Japan and the United States "strongly condemn" North Korea supplying arms to Moscow, the allies said in a joint statement Thursday, adding that "several" such deliveries have been made by Pyongyang.

Russia and North Korea, historic allies, are both under a raft of global sanctions -- Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine, and Pyongyang for its testing of nuclear weapons.

The countries' leaders, Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin, in September held a high profile summit in Russia's far east, fanning Western fears Pyongyang might provide Moscow with weapons for its war in Ukraine.

Washington and its key East Asian security allies, Seoul and Tokyo, said they "strongly condemn the provision of military equipment and munitions by the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Russian Federation for use against the government and people of Ukraine".

"Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russia's war of aggression."

During his visit to Russia in September, Kim declared bilateral ties with Moscow were his country's "number one priority".

Washington and experts have said Pyongyang was seeking a range of military assistance in return, such as satellite technology and upgrading its Soviet-era military equipment.

The nuclear-armed North has failed twice this year in its bid to put a military spy satellite into orbit.

The Thursday joint statement also claimed Pyongyang was "seeking military assistance to advance its own military capabilities" in "return for its support to Russia."

"We emphasise that arms transfers to or from the DPRK ... would violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions," the statement said.

"Russia itself voted for the UN Security Council resolutions that contain these restrictions," it said, adding the allies were "deeply concerned" about the "potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology" to the North.

In August, Tokyo, Seoul and Washington's leaders met for a summit at Camp David, agreeing to a multi-year plan of regular joint exercises and to share real-time data on North Korea.

Pyongyang's leader Kim has described the burgeoning defence alliance as "the worst actual threat" facing his isolated country.

cdl/ceb/mca
CHICAGO - Ex-NFL player Sergio Brown appeared in court for a detention hearing Wednesday after being charged with his mom's death in early October.

Brown, 35, was accused of murdering his 73-year-old mother Myrtle Simmons-Brown after her body was found in the backyard of their shared home in Maywood wrapped in a sheet.

Prosecutors revealed new details about the days leading up to Brown's disappearance and his mother's murder.

Simmons-Brown was last seen alive around 6 p.m. on Sept. 14 at her home located at 1125 Nichols Lane. One of the victim's sons stopped receiving messages from the victim and began to worry. Her son last spoke to her at 3 p.m. that day.

Simmons-Brown's son did not hear from the victim the next two days. On Sept. 16, he went to the home that Brown and the victim share alone and no one appeared to be home.

The son returned later that day and met police there. Officers found blood on the back patio, according to prosecutors. The victim and the offender were then reported missing.

As people searched the area, a former neighbor found Simmons-Brown approximately 100150 feet from her own back door.

Sergio Brown | Maywood PD

Prosecutors say her cause of death was blunt force trauma.

As police searched the property they found cleaning product with bleach in the bathtub drain. The victim's iPad, credit cards and phone were all missing, but her cigarettes were left behind, according to court documents.

Cameras in the area caught Brown burning fabric in a fire pit the night of Sept. 14. Burnt fabric was recovered from the pit by law enforcement.

Prosecutors say the offender and victim's phones pinged together Sept. 14 and 15, before they stopped pinging all together.

Court documents reveal that Brown booked a one-way ticket to Cancun, Mexico on Sept. 15 at 3 a.m. An Uber driver took him to the airport that morning, and he flew out of Chicago early.

Brown was detained on Oct. 7 in Mexico City. US Customs and Border Patrol out of San Diego found the victims cell phone, iPad, and numerous credit and bank cards in victims name from a bag that the offender was carrying.

Bank records obtained with several search warrants showed two Airbnb reservations made on Simmons-Brown's Capital One Venture card. One was booked for Sept. 21 for $1,797 and another for Oct. 6 for $1,205.

Prosecutors say DNA from a toothbrush found in the offender's bedroom is a possible match to DNA found under the victim's finger nails.

Brown was arrested in San Diego on Oct. 10 after being deported from Mexico. He was then extradited to Maywood on Oct 24. He admitted going to Mexico with the victim's belongings.

At his detention hearing Wednesday morning, Brown was ordered to remain in custody at least until his next court appearance on Nov. 22.
A man accused of stealing from Nordstrom stores in Los Angeles and businesses on El Paseo in Palm Desert was arrested Sunday and faces 11 felony charges, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Nickolas Mallory, 25, was arrested at a Los Angeles home by officers, including some from the LAPD Organized Retail Crime Task Force, police said in a news release.

In addition to the thefts from Nordstrom stores and El Paseo businesses, Mallory was also responsible for multiple Felony crimes in the Los Angeles Area and Riverside County resulting in a loss in excess of $100,000 in merchandise, police said.

Police said they found stolen property, as well as evidence linking Mallory to the thefts, including two guns  one of which was modified to be fully automatic  two high-capacity magazines, ammunition and more than $2,000 cash.

He was initially booked on a robbery charge, but the Los Angeles County District Attorneys Office charged him with 11 felonies: two counts of robbery, three counts of burglary, one count of organized retail crime, two counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, two counts of unlawful possession of ammunition and one count of unlawful possession of an assault weapon.

His bail was set at $1.35 million.

Anyone with information, videos or photos of the incidents is asked to email ORC@lapd.online.

During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or go directly to lacrimestoppers.org.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
A report by the health watchdog raised a number of issues with Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy

"Serious concerns" were raised about the condition of a Fife hospital during an unannounced visit by inspectors in the summer.

A report into Healthcare Improvement Scotland's visit to the Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy said the older part of the building was in a "very poor condition".

Inspectors closed the ear, nose and throat ward at the hospital and ordered refurbishment work following the visit in August.

The HIS report said the ward was significantly worse than other areas.

The report said the older section of the hospital, known as 'Phase One', was in "very poor condition.

It noted there were "damaged wooden surfaces, flooring and walls".

Inspectors saw a broken pipe in a patient toilet that had leaked through a wall, causing holes in the plaster and exposing a service shaft behind.

The report said that although the toilet had been blocked off by managers, they were not aware of the extent of the degradation.

Donna Maclean, the chief inspector of HIS, said praised staff, saying they were responsive to patients needs.

Patients and visitors were complementary about staff and the care they provided, she said.

However, inspectors also had concerns about the "escalation" of the hospital's disrepair and about the "oversight and communication" that led to this.

When senior managers where informed about the concerns they "responded quickly to asses the risks" taking action and moving inpatients to another ward.

Overall they praised the NHS Fife teams' openness, setting out a plan for the problems raised by the inspection.
Police are investigating break-ins at both the Bedford and Needham locations of Bierman Autism Centers in which valuable electronics were stolen less than two weeks apart.

The first burglary occurred at the Needham facility around 9:20 p.m., on Oct. 15, police said. Another office in the building was also burglarized.

Then, on Tuesday, Oct. 24, the Bierman Autism Center in Bedford was hit. Staff arrived Wednesday morning and found their work computers missing before checking security cameras to find someone breaking in, Chrissy Barosky, Chief Clinical Officer for Bierman Autism Centers, told Boston 25 News. It is unclear how they got into the building.

It was our team members computers. Luckily, we have backups; theyre able to get through their day, Barosky said. It does impact their ability to effectively work with everyone throughout the day. Its a bit of a disruption to not have what you need.

Bierman Autism Centers provides a variety of services and therapies for kids with autism.

Among the stolen items was a device a child uses to communicate. While staff quickly ran out and bought a new device, the crimes are upsetting to those like Barosky who have been working hard to make sure important therapy sessions are not interrupted.

Were all really passionate about what we do here, an emotional Barosky said. We love the kids we work with. We love the thing that we do. So, it is unfortunate when anyone disrupts that.

Jill Fennelly, mother to four-year-old Aleister, a student at Bierman in Bedford, said she is disgusted anyone would target her sons school.

I was shocked. I was in utter disbelief, really, Fennelly said. Anybody that would break into a school for special needs children and take their things, its just  its just unnerving.

Police could not confirm whether the break-ins in each town are related. They are not yet releasing any surveillance pictures.

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
Conference held to mark 4 decades of government service hotline

Xinhua) 09:58, October 26, 2023

SHENYANG, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- The 2023 summit on digital business environment reform and innovation and the conference on the 40th anniversary of China's government service hotline took place on Tuesday in Shenyang, Liaoning Province.

Participants to the events lauded the fruitful results and experience in the government service hotline over the past 40 years, saying the hotline has adhered to the people-centered approach and provided convenient and efficient services to the public through reform and innovations.

The report on the 40-year development of government service hotline, which was released during the conference, highlighted the continuous progress made over the past four decades.

The hotline has gradually realized standardization and progressed towards digital and intelligent development, according to the report compiled by China Economic Information Service and the Center for Digital Governance of Sun Yat-sen University.

More than 500 people from relevant government departments, experts and scholars from home and abroad, and representatives from media outlets and enterprises attended the events.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 24)  Most of barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials are expected to assume office right after their proclamation on Oct. 30, according to the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

The Supreme Court earlier ruled as unconstitutional Republic Act No. 11935, the act that postponed the village and youth council polls from its initial December 2022 schedule to the last Monday of October this year.

However, it said the BSKE set for October shall proceed out of legal practicality and necessity.

"Pagka-proclaim nila ngayong Oct. 30, kinabukasan dapat mag-a-assume na kaagad sila sa pwesto," Comelec Chairman George Garcia said in a press briefing.

[Translation: After they were proclaimed on Oct. 30, they should immediately assume office.]

Despite the Dec. 5, 2022 postponement, the Comelec said the term of office of barangay and SK officials officially started on Jan. 1, 2023 following the ruling of the high court.

Garcia said proclamation will be at around 9 p.m. during election day, but in areas with automated elections, the proclamation will begin earlier at 6 p.m.

He previously said that automated village and youth polls will be held in two barangays in Dasmarinas, Cavite, and in Pasong Tamo in Quezon City.

Casting of votes in Metro Manila, Legazpi City in Albay, and Cebu City can also be done in malls.

The Comelec also approved a resolution allowing the suspension of the proclamation of the winning candidates with unresolved cases before the poll body.

READ: Comelec to suspend proclamation of BSKE winners with unresolved cases

Garcia said all pending cases of the candidates will be resolved within two weeks after the election on Oct. 30.

If proven to have committed election offenses, the winning candidate will be disqualified from his position.

The poll chief also told reporters that only one of two elections to be held in 2025 will be automated. The country will hold the midterm national elections in May 2025 and the BSKE elections in December of the same year.

"It may happen sa 2025 na dalawang election na automated at manual sa barangay at SK elections," he said.

[Translation: In 2025, we have two elections. One is automated and one manual in the barangay and SK elections.]

Congress approved 22 billion for the 2025 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE), 8 billion less than what the Comelec was requesting, according to Garcia.
A shooting on Interstate 190 near the Peace Bridge in Buffalo, New York, Thursday morning killed one person and injured two others, officials said.

Multiple shots were fired from one vehicle at another vehicle at about 11:11 a.m., Major Eugene Staniszewski of the New York State Police said at a news conference Thursday afternoon. Both vehicles were traveling south on I-190.

The three people shot were in a Buffalo Sewer Authority vehicle, and all three were employees of the sewer authority. A preliminary investigation indicated the shots were fired from a late model, dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee, police said.

Emergency workers arrived on the scene to provide medical aid, but one of the victims was fatally wounded. The two others were taken to a nearby medical center, one in serious condition and the other with non-life-threatening injuries, Staniszewski said.

Police are working on several leads but have not identified a motive for the shooting, Staniszewski said, adding that no information suggests an ongoing threat to the community.

"This is obviously another heartbreaking day in the city of Buffalo," Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said at the news conference, evoking the mass shooting at a Buffalo supermarket last year that killed 10 people.

"It is particularly heartbreaking for the employees of the Buffalo Sewer Authority," Brown said. "Three of their coworkers shot while going about their day, working on behalf of the residents of the city of Buffalo."

Brown said he met with about 150 employees of the sewer authority Thursday "to show our concern, our heartbreak, our outrage, for what happened to their coworkers."

Staniszewski asked anyone with any information about the shooting, including dash cam footage, to contact the police.

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

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Nearly a year after Ethan Chapin and three other University of Idaho students were killed in an attack near campus, his brother received an award created in his brothers honor.

Hunter Chapin received the inaugural Ethan Chapin Memorial Scholarship from the Sigma Chi Foundation at Wednesday nights Sigma Chi fraternity scholarship dinner. Both Ethan and Hunter were members of the fraternity.

The award is intended to go toward tuition and honors the Idaho Sigma Chi member who best exemplifies Ethans character, his enthusiasm for life and his smile for everyone around him, according to a fraternity news release.

Hunter Chapin, left, was the triplet brother of stabbing victim Ethan Chapin.

The organization said the endowed scholarship will give $5,000 to an Idaho chapter member each year.

Im honored to be receiving the first Ethan Chapin Memorial Scholarship, Hunter Chapin said in the release. It makes me feel so happy to see that Sigma Chis around the world honor and care for the undergraduates.

Chapin, 20, was a freshman when he was stabbed to death on Nov. 13, 2022. His girlfriend, Xana Kernodle, 20, and her roommates Madison Mogen, 21, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were also killed in the attack at the womens off-campus home on King Road in Moscow. Bryan Kohberger, a graduate student at the nearby Washington State University at the time, has been charged with their murders and is awaiting trial.

Maizie Chapin, Ethans sister, helped present the award to her brother. The Chapin family was the funds largest donor  some of which came from Ethans checking account. The fund has since garnered $125,000 through donations. Sigma Chi said if the foundation receives additional funds, the $5,000 amount will increase for future recipients.

It was breathtaking to see hundreds of people from across the hemisphere immediately step up to support the Ethan Chapin scholarship as a way to make a statement of goodness and love, Jeff Burnside, Sigma Chi Foundation director of development for the Northwest region, said in the release.

At the dinner, fraternity members unveiled a plaque featuring Ethan Chapins name and face that will hang in the Moscow chapter house. The organization said it hopes the gestures will help future members remember their slain brother.

Let all generations honor Ethan and strive to be like him, the ending of the plaque states.

Those interested in donating can do so through the fraternitys website.

Ethan Chapin joined the Sigma Chi fraternity in his freshman year of college.
By Catarina Demony

LISBON (Reuters) - The leader of Ireland's main opposition party Sinn Fein on Thursday said she would travel across Europe to seek support for a united Ireland in the run-up to a parliamentary election due within 18 months that her party is favourite to win.

Mary Lou McDonald , who is seeking to become the country's first female prime minister, was speaking during a two-day visit to Lisbon by a Sinn Fein delegation. She has previously said she was sure a referendum would happen in the next decade.

"We are anxious to talk to people about this project and also about the EU itself and where it goes next," McDonald told reporters, adding she would "absolutely" travel to other European capitals ahead of the election.

Sinn Fein's leadership was to meet political leaders, including the Portuguese foreign minister, to discuss, among other issues, "the need for preparations to begin for Irish unity", the party said.

Under a 1998 peace deal, which largely ended three decades of violence between Catholic Irish nationalists and Protestant unionists, the British government can call a referendum on whether Northern Ireland should leave the United Kingdom if a "yes" majority looks likely.

Asked if she felt European leaders would support her party's quest, McDonald said people seemed "very engaged" and interested but that they needed to be sure a referendum "would not be chaotic" like the Brexit vote and subsequent negotiations.

Leaders abroad want to be confident that Sinn Fein would "do things in an orderly, thoughtful and democratic way" and Sinn Fein is happy to give that assurance, McDonald said.

Sinn Fein, the former political wing of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), is by far the most popular in Ireland ahead of elections due by early 2025 and became the first party seeking to leave the United Kingdom to come out on top at elections in Northern Ireland in May last year.

Sinn Fein's spokesperson on foreign affairs, Matt Carthy, travelled with McDonald to Lisbon and said the level of support for Ireland from European governments during Brexit negotiations was a shock to the British political system.

Their support, Carthy said, would also "be important in terms of ensuring that united Ireland will be a successful endeavour".

(Reporting by Catarina Demony; Additional reporting by Padraic Halpin and Conor Humphries; editing by Diane Craft)
This month, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation announced that San Luis Obispo County was among 31 Western U.S. planning projects to receive $28.9 million in funding to support potential new water reuse and desalination projects.

SLO County was awarded $550,000 in matching funds to start a feasibility, technology and project location study to take advantage of our over 80 miles of ocean frontage that could help transform seawater into drinking water.

With the prospect of future droughts due to global warming, this renewable, almost inexhaustible resource would not be diminished by climate change, insufficient rainfall, or water conservation efforts, says Angela Ford, SLO DESAL (Desalination Executable Solution and Logistics) Plan manager and supervising water resources engineer with the county.

In the Western U.S., record temperatures and drought conditions have forced states like California to plan for a future with dwindling water supplies even though current conditions are flush with nearly full reservoir supply across the state. Water users in the county have reduced per-capita water use by 30% since 2009 and are meeting state water use efficiency goals as limited new supplies other than recycled water remain.

The DESAL project will examine alternate sites, different technology options, and whether theres a regional benefit that could help many water districts, Ford said.

Recent technological advances have also made it more sustainable, energy-efficient and less impactful on the environment to turn seawater into drinking water than ever before, the county DESAL Plan report says.

The California Coastal Commission had objected to the potential harmful impact from some of these projects, but new technology appears to have eased those fears. Last fall the commission issued a permit for a $140 million desalination plant off the coast of Dana Point.

In one technique to mitigate environmental impacts from open water intakes and outfalls, subsurface wells could be used to collect water from the ocean or other saline surface water.

A rendering shows how the SeaWell desalination buoy would look from the surface of the water as part of project proposed off Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Desalination becoming more financially feasible

In addition, the rising cost of treating and conveying water from other sources has made seawater desalination more economically feasible compared to other new supply alternatives.

Over the past decade, the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors has expressed interest in desalination as a water supply opportunity.

In November 2021, the board identified water resilience and desalination as a top priority. Then, as of October 2022, the board agreed to proceed on the path to a desalination project and seek resolutions from local agencies who might want to join the study.

The board also authorized grant applications.

Now agencies from around the county have signed up to participate in a two-year study that could lead to one or more regional projects down the road.

DESAL Plan participants include the cities of Arroyo Grande, Morro Bay, Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo; community services districts from Los Osos, Avila Beach, Cambria, Nipomo, San Miguel and Templeton; the Atascadero Mutual Water Co.; the Golden State Water Co.; the San Miguelito Mutual Water Co.; and Santa Barbara County.

First look at locations

So far, potential locations for desalination opportunities in SLO County include some mothballed seaside sites.

Among the possibilities are:

Expansion of the Morro Bay Desalination Facility

Expansion of the Cambria Emergency Water Supply Project

Expansion of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant desalination facility

Co-location at the South San Luis Obispo County Wastewater Treatment Plant

Co-location at the Nipomo Mesa Refinery

Co-location at the Morro Bay Power Plant

A new facility at the Estero Marine Terminal

A key strategy for the effort is to take advantage of connecting water delivery infrastructure already in place between communities, reservoirs and water systems that could help spread the benefit of this new water supply.

Existing infrastructure that could facilitate exchanges with inland participants includes participants in the Nacimiento Project, State Water Project Coastal Branch, and Lopez Project as well as supplemental supplies for groundwater sustainability agencies, which include municipal, domestic, industrial, and agricultural users, the county DESAL Plan report says. Environmental and fish and wildlife uses from the Lopez Project may be identified in the Arroyo Grande Creek Habitat Conservation Plan and could be met via exchange with desalination. Also, desalinated water could be recharged in local groundwater basins for storage or provide in-lieu groundwater recharge where desalinated water replaces pumping of groundwater.

A map shows existing pipelines that could be used to transport water around San Luis Obispo County.

How SLO County water sources are connected

A map of SLO County shows how local communities and water sources are mostly connected with some exceptions like Cambria and Los Osos.

Los Osos looks to correct this in the near future by connecting to the State Water Project in Morro Bay. Funding from the federal Government will enable the county to hire an expert consultant to help engage local stakeholders to develop and describe concept alternatives.

Alternatives include, but are not limited to:

Direct delivery to near-coastal communities only

Direct delivery to near-coastal communities with inland investors to free up existing supplies currently going to near-coastal communities

Onshore and offshore facility options

Co-located facility and new site options

Currently, California has 14 seawater and 23 brackish water desalination plants, but not all operate at full capacity, according to a report.

The city of Antioch is building the states first inland brackish water desalination project at a cost of about $110 million.

Other potential sources for desalinated water may include brackish groundwater or inland surface water bodies, bays and estuaries, according to a staff report.

The identification and investigation of brackish water sources is important for any given project to consider as lower energy is required to desalinate sources with lower salinity.

During the analysis of inland wells, it will be important to consider any impacts to the fresh groundwater.

The county has three groundwater basins designated as critically overdrafted by the state and 12 basins with potential seawater intrusion issues that can be potentially mitigated with desalination.

We have no groundwater banking like they have in the San Joaquin Valley, said Ford, which means more surface storage is required to store imported water.

In Los Osos the community might soon be able to hook up to state water that is delivered to the South Coast including to Morro Bay and both San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties to supplement local supplies.

That pipeline to Los Osos could be used to bring in desal water from a future regional offshore facility near Morro Bay, for example.

The local CSD says it wants to use the pipeline connected to the State Water Project to recharge the community aquifer and help to stave off seawater intrusion.

The county relies primarily on five reservoirs for surface water supplies  Lake Nacimiento, Whale Rock Reservoir, Lopez Lake, Santa Margarita Lake and Chorro Reservoir  and any decrease in the use of water from these sources that may be offset by desalinated water would result in higher reservoir levels, improved flows, and enhanced habitat conditions for wildlife within the watershed.

In addition, the district has an annual allocation of 25,000 acre-feet of water from the State Water Project, fed by the San Luis Reservoir near Los Banos.

The reservoir is brimming with water now after a record mountain runoff.

Whats next?

As part of the Phase 2 of the DESAL Plan development, the county will now investigate and evaluate saline and brackish water sources, treatment technologies, and uses for the treated water.

Planning activities will include developing and implementing a public and stakeholder engagement process, developing ranking criteria for concept alternatives, identifying concept alternatives, and developing a short list of preferred projects to further pursue.

Angela Ford cautioned that a final operating project or projects are likely decades away, although a preferred project might be known by 2026.

Start-up projects to watch

As guidance, the county will be able to look to several on- or near-shore desal technologies that are being tested off the California coast this fall.

They include the SeaWell project based in Santa Barbara and the Calabasas-based OceanWell project with the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District, a partnership to pilot Californias first-ever Blue Water farm.

Blue Water farms say they use water pressure at depths of over 1,000 feet to drive the reverse osmosis process while safeguarding marine life and protecting delicate aquatic ecosystems.

They argue that the system is reliable, low energy, easily scalable, negates the need for an onshore plant, and produces no harmful impacts.

A pilot project announced this summer will start testing the state-of-the-art technology in the Districts Las Virgenes Reservoir in the city of Westlake Village.

Meanwhile, a wave-powered desal project is underway off the Mendocino coast.

Meanwhile, a wave-powered desal project is underway off the Mendocino coast.

This summer, the city of Fort Bragg received $1.5 million in state funding to launch a pilot project to supplement local drinking supplies using wave-powered desalination technology aboard a floating raft-like unit anchored a mile offshore.

Closer to home, SeaWells small offshore desalination buoy project with Vandenberg Space Force Base got the support of local Congressman Salud Carbajal, who submitted a letter to base command in July.

Announced a year ago, the Vandenberg seawater projects initial engineering is said to be complete, with the final report pending in the next few weeks.

An offshore bouy or bouys would supplement the bases limited groundwater supply. SeaWell says the report will provide a basis to begin pre-permitting discussions with the State Lands Commission.

Seawells CEO Peter Stricker says the companys technology advances beyond shoreside mega-desalination plants to environmentally friendly, dispersed, floating seawater conversion buoys, each delivering freshwater for over 5,000 homes with unrivaled energy efficiency.

SeaWell is also working with the U.S. Navy at the Navys Seawater Desalination Test Facility at Port Hueneme.

Time will tell if these innovative approaches to supply drinking water from the ocean will work and be cost-effective.

John Lindt is the editor of the news site Sierra2theSea.net.
Robert Fico

The newly elected Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico, who leads the pro-Russian SMER-SD party, has announced his reluctance to provide military assistance to Ukraine, the Slovak news agency Aktuality reported on Oct. 26.

Fico expressed his preference for diplomatic efforts, stating, Better let them engage in peace negotiations for ten years than to see them engage in a decade of conflict with no resolution, adding that, in his view, Russia holds greater territorial gains compared to Ukraine.

In recent parliamentary elections held on Oct. 1 in Slovakia, the pro-Russian Smer-SD party, led by Fico, secured victory with 23.29% of the vote.

Read also:

Fico has confirmed his intention to discontinue aid to Ukraine. This decision has faced criticism from Zuzana Caputova, the President of Slovakia, who argued that the approval of a military aid package to Kyiv by the outgoing government would set a risky precedent for potential power transitions after future elections. Caputova subsequently expressed her support for the continued provision of such aid.

Read also: Slovakia formally accuses Russia of trying to influence election through disinformation

The Slovakian government later announced its decision to halt military assistance to Ukraine. Fico also opposes Ukraines pursuit of NATO membership.

Furthermore, Fico has promoted false Russian narratives, including claims that the conflict began in 2014 when Ukrainian Nazis and fascists initiated violence against Russian citizens in Donbas and Luhansk. He has stated his belief that Russia will never relinquish control of Crimea and the territories it currently holds, despite numerous documented Ukrainian territorial gains.

Fico has also criticized international sanctions against Russia and called for closer ties with Moscow after the conflict. He even pledged to veto Ukraines accession to NATO if such an opportunity arises.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Slovakia's newly-appointed Prime Minister Robert Fico said his country would no longer send arms to Ukraine and vowed to promote this stance also on the European level, the Guardian reported on Oct. 26.

Fico, whose SMER party won the parliamentary elections on a pro-Russian, populist platform, repeated his previous promise that Slovakia would halt all military aid for Ukraine, which continues to face Russian aggression.

Speaking to Slovak lawmakers on Oct. 26, he however added that Bratislava would continue providing humanitarian assistance.

Under the previous governments, Slovakia has provided Ukraine with extensive humanitarian and military assistance, including artillery, fighter jets, and other support.

Fico plans to promote his views in Brussels, where he is set to join a two-day EU leaders' summit on Oct. 26-27.

"I will support zero military aid to Ukraine  an immediate halt to military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine. The EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker," Fico said.

The prime minister also added he would "not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia. If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them."

Read also: Peter Tkacenko: Slovakia after election  If not friend, certainly not enemy of Ukraine

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was dismissive of Fico's statements, saying that "Slovakia did not have such a big share in the supply of weapons, so it will hardly affect the entire process."

Fico's new government, comprised of SMER, the social-democratic HLAS, and the ultranationalist Slovak National Party (SNS), was appointed by the country's President Zuzana Caputova on Oct. 25.

The populist leader vowed shortly after his appointment that Bratislava would maintain a "sovereign foreign policy." He has previously pledged that "not a single round" will be sent to Ukraine upon his election.

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Robert Fico, the new Prime Minister of Slovakia, has stated in a conversation with Ursula von der Leyen , President of the European Commission, that Bratislava will not support Ukraine with military aid anymore.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Fico on Facebook

Details: Among other things, Fico told Von der Leyen that "from this day on, Slovakia will have its own opinion in Brussels".

He announced changes to the country's criminal law in response to "harsh violations of human rights and abusing criminal law against the opposition", which his party Smer-SD was until recently.

"I have also informed the European Commissions President that the new Slovakian government will not support Ukraine in a military way and that we will focus exclusively on humanitarian aid," Fico added and claimed that von der Leyen stressed the sovereign right of EU member states to support or not to support Ukraine with weapons.

Prior to that, the new Slovakian Prime Minister confirmed that he will not support the military aid for Ukraine because "Let them negotiate peace for 10 years rather than kill each other for 10 years without any result".

Background: On 25 October, the new government headed by Robert Fico was officially approved, following the results of the parliamentary elections in Slovakia. Pro-Russian officials took the offices particularly important for Ukraine.

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WARSAW, Poland  Slovak President Zuzana Caputova has sworn in a new government led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, a populist leader who campaigned on a pro-Moscow platform. One of the politicians electoral slogans was Not a single round for neighboring Ukraine, as Fico declares he will terminate his countrys military support to Kyiv.

On Sept. 30, Ficos left-wing Direction  Social Democracy party won the nations parliamentary election, paving the way for a coalition government headed by the three-time prime minister. After being sworn in on Oct. 25, the new Cabinet has 30 days to obtain the parliaments vote of confidence. As the coalition partners control a total of 79 of the 150 seats in the unicameral National Council, Ficos government will most likely secure the necessary votes.

Since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Slovakia has intensified its military cooperation with Ukraine. For example, Bratislava donated its Soviet-era S-300 air defense system and Mikoyan MiG-29 fighter jets to Kyiv. However, under Ficos rule, Slovakia will most likely leave the ranks of Ukraines staunch supporters among NATO members.

Meanwhile, it is unclear how the new Cabinet will approach some of the latest decisions taken by its predecessor. Earlier this month, the Slovak ministry of defense announced it was authorized by the countrys outgoing government to launch negotiations on purchasing the Barak MX air defense system from Israel as well as the Piorun weapon, a short-range, man-portable air defense system, from Poland.

Under the plan, Slovakia is to acquire one Barak MX system, and 36 Piorun systems. The two potential contracts are estimated to be worth close to 194 million ($205 million), the statement said.
Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico is attending his first EU leaders summit since assuming office earlier this week (Ludovic MARIN)

Slovakia's new populist Prime Minister Robert Fico said Thursday that he "informed" the European Union's executive of his decision to stop military aid to Ukraine, the first such Western reversal of backing for Kyiv.

On Thursday, Fico said he had spoken to the head of the European Commission about his government's move at a meeting before the bloc's summit in Brussels.

In a Facebook post, Fico said Ursula von der Leyen respected "the sovereign right of member countries to support Ukraine militarily or not, and she appreciated our position on humanitarian aid."

Earlier on Thursday, Fico told MPs that the country would "no longer supply weapons to Ukraine", but would still supply humanitarian aid to its war-torn neighbour.

"I will support zero military aid to Ukraine... An immediate halt to military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine. The EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker," he added.

Russia immediately dismissed the impact Slovakia's decision to halt military aid to Ukraine would have on the 20-month-old conflict.

"Slovakia did not have such a big share in the supply of weapons, so it will hardly affect the entire process," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, when asked about Bratislava's decision.

Asked by AFP for a reaction on the decision, the foreign ministry of Ukraine declined to comment.

Bratislava's previous pro-Western government had shown strong support for Ukraine.

The Central European country of 5.4 million people was notably the first NATO nation to deliver fighter jets to its war-torn neighbour.

According to the German-based Kiel Institute, Slovakia had pledged 680 million euros in total government support to Ukraine through July 2023.

That puts Slovakia among the countries with the largest government support to Ukraine by GDP (0.65 percent), behind Norway, the Baltic states, Denmark and Poland.

- Symbolic value -

However, Fico's party won last month's general vote on pledges to end military help for Ukraine, raising concerns about cracks in Western support for Kyiv.

Slovak political scientist Branislav Kovacik told AFP that Ukraine "will not miss the volume (of aid) provided by Slovakia" but added that "any loss in unity and support has symbolic meaning".

Ukraine's once close ties with fellow neighbour Poland have also recently plunged.

Following his party's victory, Fico said, "the people in Slovakia have bigger problems than (dealing with) Ukraine" and called for peace talks as "further killing will not help anyone".

In the run-up to last month's Polish general election, Warsaw said it would restrict arms deliveries to Kyiv as it needed to build up its own army.

A very public diplomatic row ensued, with Polish President Andrzej Duda comparing Ukraine to a "drowning man" who risked dragging his rescuers into the water.

Speaking at the UN at the time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky spoke of some EU countries "feigning solidarity" and thereby "indirectly supporting Russia".

Fico also expressed opposition to sanctions against Russia.

"I will not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia," he said.

"If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them."

- Shaking hands with Putin -

Fico spoke a day after his three-party coalition government was appointed.

It includes Fico's left-wing Smer-SD, the far-right and pro-Russia SNS, and Hlas-SD, a breakaway party from Smer.

SNS shares Fico's staunch anti-refugee stance and populist leanings.

Its pro-Russian chairman and former parliamentary speaker Andrej Danko said in July that Russian-occupied territories were not "historically Ukrainian".

He is infamous for shaking hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin, taking a selfie with Russian State Duma Chair Vyacheslav Volodin, and addressing Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as "my dear friend".

Slovakia is one of the most pro-Russian countries in the European Union, according to the Bratislava-based Globsec think tank.

"Respondents' belief that Russia was responsible for the war in Ukraine stood at only 40 percent, with most falling prey to disinformation narratives, blaming Ukraine or the West," it said in a 2023 report.

By contrast 71 percent of respondents in the Czech Republic blamed Russia for the conflict.

bur-amj/frj/mmp/gw
Robert Fico, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Slovakia, has confirmed that he will not support military aid to Ukraine, as he said during the election campaign.

Source: Aktuality, citing Ficos statement before the members of the parliamentary committee on European affairs before the leaders' summit in Brussels, as reported by European Pravda

Fico stated that he will not support military aid to Ukraine. "Let them negotiate peace for 10 years rather than kill each other for 10 years without any result," he said.

The prime minister also added that Russia has made "greater territorial gains than Ukraine" at this stage of the war.

Also, he stated that he would not support European sanctions against Russia without assessing their impact on EU countries.

Background:

A new government led by Robert Fico was officially approved in Slovakia on Wednesday, 25 October, following parliamentary elections.

Officials not inclined to support Kyiv have ended up in positions key for Ukraine.

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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 25)  The Commission on Elections (Comelec) confirmed on Wednesday a supposed vote-buying incident in Barangay San Jose, Navotas City  the first such arrest since the start of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) campaign period.

Local Comelec and Navotas police launched Operation Kontra Bigay at a sardines warehouse on Wednesday in the barangay after they received information about alleged vote buying in the area.

According to initial reports, a woman from Malabon City was caught handing out envelopes containing cash from 300 to 500 to around 200 people, who said they were residents of Barangay Longos in Malabon City.

When interviewed by authorities, they said they were invited by the suspect to undergo training for poll watchers and were given the money when they arrived at the warehouse.

The recipients added that they were all election watchers in Barangay Longos.

Among the items recovered at the scene were 1,213 white envelopes that contained a total of 363,900 in cash, and a box that had papers indicating the names of registered voters, contact numbers, precinct numbers, and photocopies of assorted IDs.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia lauded the swift action of the local Comelec and Navotas police.

"Nakakatuwa pero nakakangitngit at nakakagalit," he said. "Nakakatuwa dahil siyempre may nahuli kami. Nakakagalit kasi despite the fact na sinasabi natin na huwag na huwag niyong gagawin, at pinatutunayan talaga natin yan na hindi natin palalampasin ang mga ganyan, may mga nagco-commit pa rin."

[Translation: I'm relieved, but at the same time annoyed and angry. Relieved because we caught some people. Annoyed because despite reminders on what not to do, and we have proven that we will not let things like this slide, this still happened.]

The poll chief vowed to go after those engaged in vote buying and selling. He said those found guilty may face disqualification and may be charged with an election offense.

"We will immediately act on that and those who will be responsible, kung wala pa sila sa aming list ng mga isu-suspend, we will immediately suspend the proclamation of these candidates kung saka-sakali sila ay mananalo," Garcia said.

[Translation: We will immediately act on that and those who will be responsible, if they are not yet on our list of people to be suspended, we will immediately suspend the proclamation of these candidates should they win.]

The Committee on Kontra Bigay earlier filed five disqualification cases for vote buying.

It said more will be filed as complaints come in.
Smyrna Town Manager Brian Hercules should face an independent investigation for his treatment of Judge Brittany Stevens and others, her attorney contends.

"Mr. Hercules has a history of shouting, harassment, losing his temper, and trying to intimidate Judge Stevens and apparently many others who are either currently employed with the town or who have left, including a strikingly disproportionate number of women," Nashville attorney Wesley Clark said in a letter he sent to Smyrna Town Attorney Jeff Peach.

"Bullying and intimidation do not belong in any workplace, including at the town of Smyrna where there is an anti-bullying policy that was adopted by the Town Council."

Judge Brittany Stevens presides over Smyrnas General Session Court on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

Much of the conflict ties in with the town manager recommending that the council pursue the elimination of the Smyrna General Sessions Court through a process that includes a proposed voter referendum during the March 5 presidential primary. Hercules reported to the council on Oct. 10 that the town can save more than $900,000 by getting rid of the criminal court and related police expenses to transport inmates from the Rutherford County jail in Murfreesboro to Smyrna.

The Hercules proposal would retain the revenue-generating Municipal Court overseen by Judge Stevens for traffic and code violations. The town manager's recommendation would transfer criminal cases to Rutherford County General Sessions Court at the Judicial Center in downtown Murfreesboro. The county, unlike the town, must provide this service by state law, Hercules said.

Brian Hercules

Judge Stevens, elected Smyrna Town Court Clerk Lisa Brewer, former Mayor Tony Dover and others spoke to the council Oct. 10 and disagreed with the budget numbers presented by Hercules.

Clark's letter demands for an independent investigation based on information mentioned by Judge Stevens and others during the Oct. 10 council meeting.

"There exists good cause to believe Mr. Hercules has engaged in conduct that violates state and federal anti-discrimination laws," Clark's letter said.

Peach, the council-appointed town attorney, provided the following statement about the letter in an email to The Daily News Journal:

"As it concerns the allegations posed against the town manager in the attorneys demand letter, the full membership of the council has not had an opportunity to review its contents," Peach said. "Therefore, further comment is not proper at the time of this communication."

Jeff Peach

'We were blindsided with numbers': Smyrna judge upset by town leaders seeking to end court

Judge Stevens: 'The town manager continues to try and intimidate us'

Stevens during the Oct. 10 meeting questioned the timing of the council proposing to eliminate General Sessions Court after going through budget planning with the judge in the spring without mentioning the issue prior to the week of May 22.

"I left for vacation and unbeknownst to me, town management moved my assistant from her office to a workstation in the hallway area," the judge told the council. "Do you realize we have confidential files like search warrants in murder and rape cases that need to be secure? This is a major liability."

When the judge returned from vacation May 30, Stevens said she and the town manager had a phone conversation "regarding my assistant sneakily being removed from her office, which led to a heated disagreement."

"Curiously, later that same day, the mayor sent an urgent email calling for a special meeting to discuss the court," said Stevens, who won her eight-year term August 2022 after serving six years as the elected town court clerk.

Judge Stevens said she and Brewer thought the meeting would be about establishing boundaries between the appointed town manager and two elected judicial officials.

"Instead, we were blindsided with numbers presented to the council that we had never seen before  and that were wrong," Judge Stevens said. "No one asked us for input on these numbers, and we could not get a copy for days. However, I must say when six of the seven council members walked in the room single file from the town manager's office, I knew something was up."

Judge Brittany Stevens work with Smyrna Town Court Clerk Lisa Brewer in Smyrna General Session Court on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

Stevens also said she requested a private meeting with Mayor Mary Esther Reed on June 30, and they discussed "harassment, hostile work environment and other concerns" the elected judicial officials continue to have with the town manager's office.

"I complained how the town manager continues to try and intimidate us and threaten to shut the court down just like he has for the past five years any time someone questions or challenges him, and I have expressed that to several of you," the judge told the council. "I told the mayor this came out of nowhere and was retaliation for me standing up to the town manager (on May 30)."

'Citizens should be involved': Smyrna officials divided over General Sessions Court status

Town manager accused of calling Stevens a 'blond Barbie that couldn't do math'

In addition to Judge Stevens questioning the conduct of Hercules on Oct. 10, former Smyrna employee David Fielder spoke to the council about the town manager.

"He referred to Brittany Stevens as a blond Barbie that couldn't do math," Fielder told the council.

Fielder after the meeting said he heard Hercules say the Barbie comment with several other people in the room at the time. A former IT professional for the local government from 2018 to 2021, Fielder also previously worked on an audit of the town's court system before resigning.

"I loved working here  until I had enough of the new management and Brian Hercules  just like so many other longtime employees who left for the very same reason," Fielder said. "If you don't know Brian, he would frequently yell at people, loses his temper and try to intimidate employees and then immediately laugh about it."

Criminal court expenses: Smyrna General Sessions Court lost $600K in 2018

Mother of judge defends daughter

The council also heard the judge's mother, Sherri Stevens, complain about the way Hercules had spoken to her daughter on the phone.

"The way Brian Hercules has talked to my daughter the past five years and made repeated threats to shut down the court is unbelievable," said Sherri Stevens, a professor training students pursuing degrees in nursing at Middle Tennessee State University. If someone where I work treated people the way this man treats people, he would be fired. Why you are not concerned about the mistreatment of people is beyond me.

The mother said the issue is not about the money for General Sessions Court.

This is about the way you treat people," Sherri Stevens said. "If you vote for this (referendum proposal on eliminating General Sessions Court) tonight, you are making it very clear that you approve of the lies being told and that you approve of the way town employees have been treated.

When not speaking to the council at the lectern, the judge sat by her mother and father, Larry Stevens, in audience seats during the meeting.

Judge Brittany Stevens, right, sits in audience seat on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023, before the state of the Smyrna Town Council meeting next to her parents, Sherri and Larry Stevens. The Smyrna Town Council is considering a proposed change to discontinue the 30-year General Sessions criminal court operation.

The judge's brother, state Rep. Robert Stevens, R-Smyrna, also attended the meeting in support of his sister. The brother previously served as president of the Rotary Club of Smyrna and was a 12-year elected member of the Rutherford County Commission prior to winning his state lawmaker seat August 2022.

Its an honor to be elected': Robert Stevens claims win as newest TN lawmaker representing Rutherford County

Councilman Steve Sullivan: Council can only take action with town manager after formal complaint

Councilman Steve Sullivan responded to the Oct. 10 public hearing comments by calling for the unanimous 7-0 vote to defer a decision until November on whether to hold a March 5 voter referendum on the General Sessions Court issue.

Sullivan described some of the public hearing comments as being "vitriol."

The following day after the meeting, Sullivan said he wanted more time to examine some of the complaints made, including accusations against the town manager. The councilman said he had learned from Smyrna Human Resources Director Jeff Craig and the town attorney that there had been no formal complaints made against Hercules with the town's Human Resources Department, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or through any lawsuits.

"All confirmed that has not happened," Sullivan said.

Steve Sullivan

Town leaders only can take action on officials they oversee if people file formal complaints with investigation findings that concern the council, Sullivan said.

Smyrna road project: Town widens Sam Ridley Parkway

Sullivan: 'Brian does an excellent job as the town manager'

Council members sometimes hear from disgruntled employees upset because the town manager told them no to a promotion or a desired office, Sullivan said.

The town manager has a difficult job that sometimes involves doing things people don't like, Sullivan said.

"Brian does an excellent job as the town manager," Sullivan said Oct. 11.

Sullivan also described the judge's complaint about her assistant's work station being exposed to an unsecured hallway location as "misinformation."

"The entire area is behind closed doors," Sullivan said.

The Smyrna government's policy only allows supervisors to have offices, Sullivan said, so Hercules was protecting the town from a potential EEOC complaint after the town manager previously denied a request to an employee who is an African American, which is a federally protected class, to have the office.

Seeking connection to Interstate 24: Smyrna's Enon Springs Road extension could help renew traction for I-24 interchange

Judge's attorney says town manager's actions 'reeks of retaliation'

The judge's attorney said in his letter that Stevens conveyed her concerns in protected speech about the independence of the judiciary and the rights of employees at the General Sessions Court.

"This certainly has all the trimmings of retaliation, especially because two minutes before the May 30 phone call, the town attorneys office sent an email to Judge Stevens about the possibility of expanding General Sessions (Court) to create a recovery court (alternative sentencing to stay out of jail for those with addiction or alcohol related nonviolent offenses) in Smyrna," Clark's letter said. "Going from expansion to elimination within a matter of hours reeks of retaliation and must be investigated."

Wesley Clark

Clark's letter also suggested the council after hearing the Oct. 10 complaints "has failed to act on its fiduciary obligation to determine the validity of these matters"

"Disturbingly, it was also revealed at the October 10 council meeting that numerous employees have approached council members about these allegations," Clark said in his letter. "We need to know what action has been taken on these complaints and if Mr. Hercules has even been advised of and/or counseled on them."

The letter also asserts that outside counsel is necessary to ensure an investigation is done fairly.

"Every current employee should be interviewed without fear of retaliation, as should all former employees, current and former contractors, and citizens who come forward with relevant experiences," said Clark's letter, who also advised that pseudonyms should be used to protect people from future retaliation.

"Additionally, the investigation should include a detailed interview of each member of the Town Council to determine what he or she knew about these allegations, what he or she did about them, and when he or she became aware. This independent investigation should still take place even in the event Mr. Hercules ceases to be employed with the town of Smyrna. We need to understand everyones experiences, and what will be done to correct any issues that may be discovered."

Veterans (Recovery) Court graduation: After years of alcohol abuse, veteran looks to help others change lives

Judge's attorney questions if council operates in Sunshine Law

Clark's letter also questioned if the elected government officials met in private executive session without public notice to discuss plans to eliminate the town's criminal court based on a comment from Oct. 10 meeting.

"Councilman Sullivan mentioned discussions the town council had about the court in an executive session 'immediately after' the council retreat in April," Clark said in his letter. "Was this meeting properly noticed? Who was present? Were the court officials consulted or advised that such a meeting was happening? We need to verify that there were no violations of the Sunshine Law when/if the council did meet to discuss issues surrounding the town court."

Clark's letter also said that executive sessions can only be held for pending litigation.

"Judge Stevens was certainly not aware of any litigation pertaining to the town court six months ago," Clark's letter said. "We need to know whether the correct process was followed or if there was an illegal meeting concerning the government of the town of Smyrna."

Peach, the Smyrna town attorney, said Sullivan's use of the term executive session was inadvertent.

"The councilman was referencing the last hour of the council retreat, in which annual goals and objectives for the town managers annual review are discussed with the H.R. Director, Jeff Craig," Peach said. "The term 'executive session' in the municipal genre does usually reference a closed meeting with legal counsel for the purposes of litigation. No such meeting with legal counsel transpired. The town council retreat of 2023 was advertised and was open to the general public."

Clark said Tuesday an independent investigation can determine what Sullivan meant by executive session.

"The people of Smyrna deserve to have an impartial independent investigation, and they deserve to have a council and a judge and elected officials that are unencumbered by the potential bullying by an unelected town manager," Clark said.

Town has new leader in 2018: Smyrna Town Council hires Brian Hercules to be town manager

Reach reporter Scott Broden with news tips or questions by emailing him at sbroden@dnj.com. Follow his tweets on the X social media platform @ScottBroden. To support his work with The Daily News Journal, sign up for a digital subscription.

Smyrna's elected officials

Mayor: Mary Esther Reed, reelected unopposed to four-year term November 2022

Council members reelected to four-year terms November 2022: Marc Adkins, the vice mayor; H.G. Cole Jr.; and Gerry Short

Council members reelected to four-year terms November 2020: Racquel Peebles; Tim Morrell; and Steve Sullivan

Town judge elected to eight-year term August 2022: Brittany Stevens

Town court clerk elected to four-year term August 2022: Lisa Brewer

Source: Rutherford County Election Commission

About the judge's attorney

Wesley Clark is one of the Nashville attorneys who won a class-action lawsuit against Rutherford County for illegally incarcerating children at the Juvenile Detention Center on minor misdemeanor charges. Tennessee law strictly prohibits the pretrial incarceration of children unless they are being charged with a violent felony, a weapons offense or a probation violation, according the lawsuit.

Clark also won a federal appeals court ruling earlier this year rejecting a qualified immunity status for Rutherford County Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh for his role in a false arrest "Operation Candy Crush" case in 2018 involving store owners. Most store owners accepted settlements. Plaintiff James Swain Rieves, however, continued his case against the county and Smyrna after being charged by the town's police force with selling a CBD candy product not proven to be an illegal drug. The case is set for trial starting at 9 a.m. Feb. 6, 2024, before U.S. District Court Judge Aleta A. Trauger in Nashville.

Source: Federal court records

This article originally appeared on Murfreesboro Daily News Journal: Smyrna judge's attorney letter demands investigation of town manager
With tensions rising in the Middle East amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a North Carolina Army base will be sending troops overseas.

According to a spokesperson for the 18th Airborne Corps at Fort Liberty, soldiers with the division would be deploying alongside troops from the U.S.S. Dwight D. Eisenhower, Fort Bliss, and Fort Sill.

SEE MORE: US Army officially renames Fort Bragg to Fort Liberty

ABC News previously reported that the Pentagon is concerned that fighting between Israel and Hamas could spread through the rest of the Middle East. So far, thousands of deaths have been reported.

Were concerned about potential escalation. In fact, what were seeing is the prospect of a significant escalation of attacks on our troops and our people throughout the region, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin told ABC earlier this week.

The spokesperson didnt give specific numbers of soldiers that would be deploying from Fort Liberty, which is near Fayetteville. Its not clear exactly where the soldiers with the 18th Airborne will be going.

Our units are trained and ready to support global response at any time, a Fort Liberty spokesperson said in a statement to our partners at ABC 11.

(WATCH: Fort Bragg drops Confederate namesake for Fort Liberty, part of US Army base rebranding)
Rising tensions in the South China Sea have led to a boat collision

US President Joe Biden has warned China that the US will defend the Philippines in case of any attack in the disputed South China Sea.

The comments come days after two collisions between Filipino and Chinese vessels in the contested waters.

Mr Biden reiterated his "ironclad" defence commitment to the Philippines.

Manila has contested Chinese claims to the waters, cutting floating barriers and inviting media to film what it calls Beijing's dangerous moves at sea.

Mr Biden's statement on the South China Sea on Wednesday was his strongest since tensions between Beijing and Manila heated up in recent months.

"I want to be clear  I want to be very clear: The United States' defence commitment to the Philippines is ironclad. The United States defence agreement with the Philippines is ironclad," he said.

Signed in 1951, the Mutual Defense Treaty binds the US and the Philippines, its former colony, into defending each other in the event of an armed attack.

"Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines," he added in his speech an the White House on Wednesday, as he welcomed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the US had "no right to get involved in a problem between China and the Philippines".

Should the US defend the Philippines, its actions "must not hurt China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea", she told reporters in response to a question on the statement.

On Sunday, the Philippines said China's "dangerous manoeuvres" had led to a collision between a China coast guard ship and a Filipino supply boat in an area that falls inside the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). In a separate incident, Manila said a Chinese militia boat "bumped" a Philippine coast guard vessel.

The Filipino boats were on their way to a crumbling navy warship that Manila has marooned at the Second Thomas Shoal to reinforce its claims.

The Philippines' defence minister, Gilberto Teodoro Jr, said the Chinese boats "intentionally hit" the Philippine vessels and accused China of "distorting the story to fit its own ends".

Mr Biden echoed these claims, saying the Chinese vessels had "acted dangerously and unlawfully" when the collisions happened.

Mr Biden reiterated his "ironclad" defence commitment to the Philippines

The Philippines is an important strategic ally of the US as it borders two potential flashpoints in the Pacific - the South China Sea and Taiwan.

Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr took office in June 2022 and revived the Philippines' alliance with the US, Filipino authorities have become more aggressive in contesting China's actions in the South China Sea.

Mr Marcos' foreign policy is a reversal of the pro-China stand taken by his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, who was criticised for not doing enough to counter Beijing's aggression in the South China Sea.

Duterte refused to invoke Manila's legal victory against China in an international tribunal, that said Beijing's vast claims to almost the entire South China Sea is unfounded.

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Owners hope South Crofty will be back in production by 2026

Work is underway to pump millions of litres of floodwater out of a former tin mine in Cornwall.

Owners of South Crofty, Cornish Metals said the mine had eight million cubic metres (283 million cubic feet) of void space, much of which was flooded.

Water pumped from the mine will be cleaned at the company's newly-built 7m treatment plant.

It will then be released into the Red River, which meets the sea at Godrevy in St Ives Bay.

The company said it would pump, treat and release 25,000 cubic metres (882,866 cubic feet) of water a day.

The dewatering process, which is expected to take 18 months to complete, is part of work to make the tin and copper mine, which closed in 1998, operational again.

Cornish Metals said the work would allow access to deeper levels within the mine, necessary to complete its feasibility study, expected at the end of 2024.

The company hopes to get South Crofty back into production as early as 2026.

'Premier resource'

Richard Williams, CEO of Cornish Metals said he hoped the mine would become one of the world's premier tin resources once more.

He said: "It's the fourth highest grade tin resource in the world right now and we think that Cornwall has a big role to play in supplying the UK with its tin requirements."

He added that once in production, the mine was expected to directly employ 275-300 people.

Follow BBC News South West on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk
SOUTH ELGIN, Ill. - Dealing with the paranormal may leave many on edge, but one group of Illinois moms is out to take a scientific approach to the unexplained.

In a FOX 32 special report, Natalie Bomke introduces us to the Paranormal Moms Society.

Legend has it that more than just wild animals inhabit the woods at the Jon Duerr Forest Preserve in South Elgin. But the ladies of the Paranormal Moms Society  or PMS for short - aint afraid of no ghost.

"We are very tough and it takes a lot to scare us," said Joanne Karis, team administrator of the Paranormal Moms Society.

"Mostly families, businesses. Anyone who has any kind of problem with a haunting that contact us. Thats what we will go to help," said Christie Chaidez, founder of the group.

Chaidez founded the group in 2007 and started with an interest in the supernatural shared by her and a neighbor.

"When it became something that she didnt want to do any longer. I wanted to keep it going. I wanted it to be something a little more serious. I wanted to help people so I decided to start looking for more moms," Chaidez said.

"What I love about being part of it is the helping people. Because again, theres people that have nowhere to go. They think that theyre going crazy," said Liz Mason, a historical researcher with the Paranormal Moms Society.

Mason kicks off their investigations by reading up on locations, like how some remains came to be in the forest preserve.

"This is the site of the burial of two unknown soldiers that were part of the Blackhawk War," Mason said. "They were all, they were being infected by cholera. The two that are here probably just died of that disease."

"Most people - if theyre still here  theyre just trying to make their presence known for some reason," Chaidez said.

"These soldiers probably left their families behind. So I think a lot of hauntings are unfinished business," Mason said.

"Our first goal is to go in and try to debunk whatever theyre experiencing. You know if they say theyre hearing creaking. Were going in and trying to see if theres something possibly in the attic thats causing the problem. Or if theres a door thats opening," Chaidez said.

"I would say probably 7 out of 10 we can usually find a reason for what theyre experiencing," she added.

Still, the ladies of PMS have seen their fair share of the unexplained from mysterious voices to orbs and moving objects.

"Its not like you see in the movies. Its really difficult to get visual evidence. When you get visual evidence - usually the holy grail of our industry," Karis said.

"We will capture a lot of EVPs, you know, electronic voice phenomenon," Chaidez said. And thats usually voices that you dont hear while youre on site. But you go back and listen to your recorders later and youll capture voice that you know are on the tape."

The group says the goal is provide answers to the living about what they may be experiencing.

"We help the living people when theyre in an environment where theyre terrified in their own home or their own business. We go to help them be at peace with whats happening," Karis said.

"What we can do is sometimes empower them or else let them know that its actually ok. You can co-exist with the dead. Sometimes it might be maybe a loved one. They didnt mean to scare you," Mason said.

"Its not always scary. And its not always a ghost. You have to - just like with anything - just show some respect," Mason added.

"As long as we can keep doing this, were going to keep doing it. We love it," Chaidez said.

Since the Paranormal Moms Society is a nonprofit, its services are free of charge.
South Korea, Japan and the United States strongly condemned North Korea's supply of weapons and military equipment to Russia and said they have confirmation of such supplies.

Source: Reuters with reference to the joint statement of the countries

Quote: "The Republic of Korea, United States, and Japan strongly condemn the provision of military equipment and munitions by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Russian Federation for use against the government and people of Ukraine."

"Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression," the three countries' foreign ministers said in a statement.

Details: The statement indicates that North Korea is seeking military assistance from Russia to develop its military capabilities in exchange for Moscow's support in the field of weapons.

Background:

The Beyond Parallel project of the American Center for Strategic and International Studies recorded a sharp increase in cargo traffic between North Korea and Russia after a meeting of the leaders of both countries in September.

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FILE - North Korean and Russian flags are seen at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the city of Blagoveshchensk in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, on Sept. 13, 2023. South Korea, the U.S. and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday, Oct. 26 that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine. (Vladimir Smirnov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  South Korea, the U.S. and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent U.S. claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries' resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the U.S. and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties. Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The U.S., South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear program in exchange for its munitions supply.

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine. After returning to Moscow, Lavrov dismissed the U.S. accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone."

I dont comment on rumors, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said that North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea)," the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the U.S. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites. Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Korea's Unification Ministry said Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the North's main launch facility.

In response to North Korea's growing nuclear capability, the U.S. and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training. This years maritime drill, which involves live-firing exercises, drew U.S. military helicopters and patrol aircraft as well, according to a navy statement.

North Korea didnt immediately comment on the drill. But it has previously slammed U.S-South Korean exercises as invasion rehearsals and responded with missile tests.
A South Korean professor who challenged the consensus view of Japan's wartime sex slaves was acquitted of defaming the victims on Thursday, overturning an earlier verdict.

Park Yu-ha, of Sejong University in Seoul, was found guilty in 2017 of defamation for questioning the popular narrative that all euphemistically termed "comfort women" were forcibly dragged from their homes by Japanese soldiers during World War II.

In her 2013 book "The Comfort Women of the Empire", she suggested the reality was more complex, with some women volunteering -- though without necessarily knowing what their fate would be. Many were told that they would get factory jobs.

The book also suggested some women forged emotional bonds with the soldiers they served, sparking an angry response from surviving victims.

Six years ago, a Seoul court ordered the academic to pay a 10 million won ($7,357) fine for defaming victims, who remain highly sensitive historical figures in South Korea.

But the country's Supreme Court acquitted Park on Thursday, stating it was reasonable to consider Park's "expressions" in the book as her "academic arguments" and opinions.

The court said that it was difficult to see them as "indications of facts that can be punished for defamation".

No circumstances were "confirmed to indicate that standard research ethics were violated or that the dignity of victims was belittled, such as infringing on their right to self-determination and freedom of privacy and confidentiality", the court said.

Park welcomed the verdict, saying that it would pave the way for people to comprehend the complexities and subtleties of sensitive and painful historical events.

"The verdict revolved around 'academic freedom', but in reality, I believe it fundamentally addressed the freedom to think and express opinions that differ from those of the state, which essentially encompasses the freedom of thought," she wrote in a public post on social media.

"I personally see today's verdict as a judgment on whether South Korea ensures the freedom of thought for its citizens."

Up to 200,000 women, mostly from Korea but also other parts of Asia including China, were forced to work in Japanese military brothels during World War II.

The issue has sparked multiple diplomatic disputes between South Korea and Japan.

But the two countries have recently established a closer relationship and heightened their security cooperation in response to escalating threats from nuclear-armed North Korea.

cdl/dva
Participants wave a rainbow flag as they march on a street during the Korea Queer Culture Festival 2022 in central Seoul

By Soo-hyang Choi

SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea's constitutional court on Thursday narrowly upheld a law banning same-sex relations within the armed forces, citing a possible risk to the military's combat readiness in a ruling criticised by activists as a setback for gay rights.

Under the country's military criminal act, members of the armed forces face up to two years in prison for same-sex relationships. The law has been referred to the court and upheld by it four times since 2002.

In Thursday's five-to-four ruling, the court said allowing same-sex relations could undermine discipline within the military and harm its combat capabilities.

Rights groups have been urging the court to scrap what they termed an "outdated and bad" law, after the Supreme Court last year overturned a military court's conviction of two soldiers sentenced to suspended prison terms for a consensual same-sex relationship.

Activists said the law fuels violence and discrimination against and stigmatization of gay soldiers.

"This continued endorsement for the criminalization of consensual same-sex acts within the Korean military is a distressing setback in the decades-long struggle for equality in the country," Boram Jang, Amnesty International's East Asia researcher, said in a statement after Thursday's ruling.

South Korea has one of the world's largest active armies, with all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 required to serve between 18 and 21 months.

(Reporting by Soo-hyang Choi; editing by John Stonestreet)
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  The Kansas City International Airport continues to add new flights, and this time its heading to the City of Angels.

On Thursday, Southwest Airlines announced a new non-stop flight to the Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR). BUR is about 26 minutes from downtown Los Angeles.

Kansas City International Airport sees record-breaking September travel

Starting June 4, Southwest will officially add the flight from KCI to BUR. The airline will also add a flight from KCI to the John Glenn Columbus International Airport in Columbus, Ohio.

The Burbank schedule will depart from KCI daily at 10:20 a.m. Service to Columbus is only on Sundays.

On top of the brand new destination, KCI will also have increased service to the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Nashville International Airport (BNA), Pensacola International Airport (PNS) and St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL).

Southwest launching nonstop flights from Kansas City to Jamaica, Mexico

Along with these flights, earlier this month Southwest ramped up its nonstop flights to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Los Cabos International Airport in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 25)  Sen. Cynthia Villar slammed the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Wednesday for allowing a supposedly private-led clinical trial of the African Swine Fever (ASF) vaccine.

In a hearing of the Senate committee on agriculture, food, and agrarian reform, Villar flagged the KPP Powers Commodities Inc. as having a conflict of interest in conducting the clinical trials as it would be the distributor of Vietnam's AVAC, insisting that the government should be conducting the tests.

"The private [sector] should not be involved kasi pag sila ang involved, gagawin nila yan ma-approve 'yan kasi kikita sila [because when they are involved, they will approve it so that it can get profit]," said Villar, the panel chairperson.

"Kinorap ninyo ang BAI, nagpa-corrupt naman ang BAI [You corrupted the BAI but the BAI seems willing to be corrupted]," she added.

Reynaldo Robles, KPP Powers Commodities legal counsel and spokesperson, said the company supplied the vaccines to participating farms but did not conduct the clinical trials.

BAI Assistant Director Vytiaco said the safety trial was done by the agency, while the efficacy trial was conducted in six farms in Luzon

For Dr. Oscar Gutierrez Jr., FDA deputy director general for field regulatory operations, the agency's role in the regulation of investigational medicines and vaccines is only to approve the clinical trial protocol, while the BAI is the monitor.

However, Sen. Francis Tolentino said current law dictates the FDA must be in charge and that it cannot delegate its function to another agency, much more to a private entity. He then asked asked the Department of Justice to provide the panel with a list of possible violations in the agencies' proceedings.

Clinical trials ahead of Vietnam approval

Villar said the committee held the inquiry as senators learned of the unauthorized sale of ASF vaccines in the black market, saying 300,000 doses have been shipped to the Philippines.

She said BAI already recommended AVAC doses on June 2, explaining these were "proven effective" after trials done in some farms. However, Vietnam only approved the vaccine for its domestic use in July. https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/6/2/bai-seeks-fda-approval-on-asf-vaccine.html

"Marami na kasing [There is too much] clamor for a solution to the ASF," BAI Director Paul Limson said, but Villar rebutted that the government must give a correct solution, alluding to conducting the correct process of clinical trials.

Gutierrez said the FDA issued an authorization to import 300,000 doses for field trials upon the request of the BAI, but he also told the panel that only 60 pigs were used to test AVAC in one of Vietnam's clinical trials.

AGAP party-list Rep. Nicanor Briones, who also attended the hearing, described the process as a "large commercial trial" for a vaccine that has not yet been approved.

Edna Zenaida Villacorte, National Advisory Committee for Animal Disease Control and Emergency chairperson, also said there was evidence of shedding in the first phase of the trials, as disclosed by the BAI, which prompted the bureau to proceed with the next stage.

She explained that shedding means that the other animals were exposed because the animal that was vaccinated "shedded" or released the virus  which is a worry in a vaccination program.

"What we're surprised is together with the phase two trial, there is already a large-scale trial ongoing using the 300,000 [doses] without the result of phase two," she added, expressing worry about the move's unknown effects on the industry.

As of Sept. 30, the BAI reported that active ASF cases were recorded in 97 barangays across 10 regions.
WASHINGTON  As the Space Force looks to modernize its military satellite communications and positioning, navigation and timing capabilities, its acquisition command is preparing to award contracts for programs in fiscal 2024 worth some $20 billion.

The total value of the contracts to be solicited this fiscal year, which began Oct. 1, is an exponential increase from the $1.6 billion awarded across the SATCOM and PNT portfolios in fiscal 2023, according to Cordell DeLaPena, the Space Systems Command program executive officer who oversees those programs.

How two SATCOM companies are responding to Starlinks dominance

Speaking Oct. 19 at a Space Industry Days event in Los Angeles, DeLaPena said the planned awards, which largely reside in the SATCOM portion of his directorate, represent a significant shift the service is making towards fielding more resilient capabilities in orbit and on the ground.

The Space Force has traditionally relied on military-owned communication satellites, residing in geosynchronous orbit  about 22,000 miles about the Earths service. In recent years, it has come to think of those spacecraft as targets for adversaries and has begun to transition to smaller satellites, some commercially owned, located in lower orbits that can provide a broader range of capability, including faster data transmission and protections against enemy attempts at jamming their signals.

The MILSATCOM mission area will transform, will pivot from providing not only network communications at the tactical edge, but will evolve into the data transport backbone from space  moving data from one side of the Earth to the other, DeLaPena said.

The service is making a similar transition in its PNT portfolio, which includes satellites like GPS, but is earlier in the process. DeLaPena said the Space Warfighting Analysis Center is designing a plan for what those capabilities may look like and should have findings within the next year.

While the Space Force anticipates awarding the contracts in FY24, the funding will be distributed over a longer period of time, as is typical for Defense Department acquisition programs.

The anticipated deals would fund new projects as well as upgrades to existing systems that will help the Space Force transition to its new architecture. That includes an $8 billion contract that would fund the development of the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications constellation, which will replace legacy Advanced Extremely High Frequency satellites. The spacecraft provide secure, survivable communications for strategic missions.

Another $2 billion contract would modernize and sustain the ground system that supports the Space Forces Mobile User Objective System satellites, which provide narrowband communication capabilities.

SSC also plans to award $464 million to Boeing to build the 12th Wideband Global SATCOM satellite, which will provide more communications capacity than previous spacecraft as well as anti-jamming capabilities.
The U.S. Space Force's Space Operations Command now has its first official painting, and it depicts a spaceplane intercepting a hostile ' killer satellite .' Though the spaceplane design is fictitious, the painting highlights very real threats to U.S. space-based assets now. It can only evoke long-standing speculation that America's two uncrewed X-37B mini-space shuttles may be capable of engaging threats in orbit and speaks to grown concerns about an actual future war in space .

Space Operations Command (SpOC), Space Force's top operational command, unveiled the painting, which is titled "High Ground Intercept" during a ceremony at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado last Friday. Aerospace artist Rick Herter, who has done other official work for the U.S. military in the past, was commissioned to paint this piece.

Aerospace artist Rick Herter signs prints of his painting for the U.S. Space Force's Space Operations Command at the unveiling ceremony. US Space Force

"The artwork depicts a futuristic U.S. Space vehicle intercepting an adversary satellite, who in turn is positioning to disable a friendly satellite," according to the Space Force. "The bay doors of the intercept vehicle are opening as the space plane moves into position and prepares to defend the friendly satellite."

No other specific details about what sort of satellite-on-satellite attack or friendly intercept capability the painting is meant to show are provided. What are commonly referred to as "killer satellites" could be designed to destroy, disable, or at least persistently disrupt the operation of other space-based systems using electronic warfare jammers, directed energy weapons, robotic arms, or kinetic projectiles. They could also be able to launch kamikaze attacks by simply smashing into their target or attaching themselves to it and putting it into an unstable orbit. Lasers or chemical sprayers could be employed to blind or damage optics. Any satellite able to get very close to another in orbit would also have the opportunity to gather various kinds of intelligence.

A graphic offering general depictions of how one satellite might attack another in space. DIA

A space-based interceptor could employ many of the same attack tactics to engage a hostile killer satellite.

Because of the highly classified nature of many space operations, SpOC requested that Herter rely on historic space planes and his own imagination, Christopher Rumley, Space Force's command historian, said in a statement.

However, the design is said to be partly inspired by the X-20 Dyna-Soar , which is particularly evident from the delta-wing platform and the vertical stabilizers on the wingtips. The X-20 was a reusable spaceplane design that Boeing worked on for the U.S. Air Force during the 1960s. That program was canceled shortly after production of the initial prototype began.

Artwork depicting an X-20 Dyna-Soar spaceplane re-entering the Earth's atmosphere. NASA

Dyna-Soar was to have been launched using a large rocket booster. It would then glide back to Earth after completing its mission, landing on a traditional runway, not entirely unlike the Space Shuttle that came decades afterward. The U.S. military was heavily involved in the Space Shuttle program, as well. Herter's fictitious spaceplane has distinct shuttle-like features, especially in the look of its forward fuselage, as can be seen in the comparative images below.

US Space Force

NASA

"The most challenging projects are when a client gives the artist a general concept of what they want but cant give specifics," Herter said in a separate statement. "In order to get the proportions and angles of the vehicle correct within the painting, I built a crude model of my space plane design, which I could then use as my reference point."

Even if the spaceplane is made up, the painting and its central theme are real. It is hard not to see Space Operations Command's decision for its first official artwork to reflect an engagement in orbit as significant in itself.

Dr. Brian Weeden, the Director of Program Planning for Secure World Foundation, an independent organization that advocates for policies to support "secure, sustainable and peaceful uses of outer space," succinctly highlighted this point in a post on X , formerly Twitter.

"After decades of ridiculing anyone who suggested the Space Shuttle or X-37B might be used as a weapon, the Space Force's first official painting is....a spaceplane being used as a weapon?" he wrote.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-7VNf7DCY8\u0026t=2s

There has been much discussion over the years about whether or not the X-37Bs , the first of which entered Air Force service in 2010, have one or more 'secret' missions, including potentially acting as space-based weapons. Officially, these uncrewed spaceplanes, which now belong to the Space Force, are experimental platforms that are used to support a wide variety of research and development efforts.

The two X-37Bs, which can stay in orbit for years at a time , have truckbed-sized adaptable internal payload bays and also be fitted with auxiliary payload adapters . They are also extremely maneuverable, making them ideal for getting very close to other objects in space.

One of the two X-37Bs with a payload adapted fitted to its rear end, seen here ahead of a record-setting mission that began in 2020 and ended in 2022. U.S. Space Force

There have certainly been hints that the X-37Bs might have more 'combat'-like operational mission capability, or that the U.S. military is interested in spaceplanes that can perform tasks like intercepting an enemy satellite. For one, the two mini-shuttles are now under the purview of Space Force's Space Delta 9, which has the primary mission of conducting "orbital warfare." The War Zone was the first to report on this in 2021.

Space Force's first capstone doctrine publication, simply titled "Spacepower," which was published in 2020, defines orbital warfare as:

"Knowledge of orbital maneuver as well as offensive and defensive fires to preserve freedom of access to the domain. Skill to ensure United States and coalition space forces can continue to provide capability to the Joint Force while denying that same advantage to the adversary."

In 2019, then-Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson had reignited discussions about what the X-37Bs might be capable of beyond space-based research with still curious comments at the annual Aspen Security Forum .

It "can do an orbit that looks like an egg and, when it's close to the Earth, it's close enough to the atmosphere to turn where it is," she said. "Which means our adversaries don't know  and that happens on the far side of the Earth from our adversaries  where it's going to come up next. And we know that that drives them nuts. And I'm really glad about that."

USAF

Back in 2015, now-retired Air Force Gen. John Hyten, then head of Air Force Space Command, who would later go on to Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, gave a cryptic answer to CBS News' David Martin when asked about the X-37B's ability to act as a weapon system in an interview for "60 Minutes."

"Here's your chance to really end all the speculation about what the spaceplane is really for," Martin told Hyten.

"It's really for cool things," Hyten responded.

Martin pressed Hyten specifically to confirm or deny the possibility that the X-37B could evolve into a "weapon system."

"The intent is, uh  I cannot answer that question. ... I'm not going to say what it's going to become, because we're experimenting."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi346Oo6iNw\u0026t=347s

It is worth noting that the X-37Bs are also just the U.S. spaceplanes we know about publicly. It is possible that there have been or continue to be other spaceplane-related developments in the classified realm.

We do know that Boeing, the company behind the X-37B, worked on another spaceplane between 2017 and 2020 as part of a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) effort focused on a reusable design capable of rapidly putting satellites into orbit. Boeing ultimately pulled out of the project for unspecified reasons and no prototypes of what was tentatively designated as the XS-1 are known to have been built.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEZDWoJdC7w

Stratolaunch, the company behind the world's current biggest airplane, the one-of-a-kind Roc , also previously pitched a spaceplane concept called Black Ice . Since that firm came under new management in 2019, it has focused its efforts more on hypersonic testing within the Earth's atmosphere.

In the same interview, Gen. Hyten explicitly said that the United States had additional means of safeguarding its space-based assets beyond measuring them out of the way of hostile threats or terrestrial electronic warfare systems, but that he could not say what they were. Currently, the U.S. military publicly acknowledges having just one so-called counter-space system, a ground-based electronic warfare jammer known as the Counter Communications System (CCS). Space Force is now in charge of the CCS program and is in the process of acquiring a new, more capable variant, also known as Block 10.3 and by the codename Meadowlands.

Equipment associated with the Counter Communications System. L3Harris

Last year, the U.S. government did announce a self-imposed moratorium on destructive direct-ascent anti-satellite missile testing, and has since pushed for other countries to make the same pledge. However, this does not prevent the U.S. military from carrying out other forms of testing in support of the development or fielding of direct-ascent anti-satellite capabilities or of other ways of engaging hostile space-based assets.

What is well-established is that the U.S. military faces a variety of threats, including from direct-ascent anti-satellite missiles and killer satellites , as well as electronic warfare systems and directed energy weapons, to its space-based assets. Russia and China have been especially prolific in their development and fielding of these capabilities , or ostensibly non-military ones that have clear dual-use potential .

Space Force has said in the past that U.S. satellites are subjected to "reversible attacks" from Russia and China on a daily basis. This category of attacks could things include jamming, temporarily blinding of optics with lasers, and cyber attacks.

This is a reality The War Zone has been calling attention to for years now . It has only become an ever-more serious issue for the U.S. military, which heavily relies on space-based assets to provide critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities , aid in navigation and weapon guidance , help forces communicate and share data around the world, and more.

The U.S. military is looking now at large distributed satellite constellations that are harder for opponents to target and neutralize, as well as ways to rapidly repair or replace space-based systems . However, Potential adversaries, such as China, are already looking at ways to defeat large numbers of targets in orbit.

DARPA

SpOC's new painting only underscores how this is all increasingly translating into discussions about the potential for actual conflict in orbit.

Weve got to  stop debating if its a warfighting domain, stop debating whether there are weapons, and get to the point of: how do we responsibly, as part of the joint and combined force, deter conflict that nobody wants to see, but if we do see it, demonstrate our ability to win? U.S. Space Force Maj. Gen. David Miller, the Director of Operations, Training, and Force Development for the joint-service U.S. Space Command (SPACECOM), said at an event hosted by the Air & Space Force Association's Mitchell Institute in June.

Breaking Defense subsequently reported that Miller's remarks had come after the circulation of an internal "commander's note" from Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman , the Chief of Space Operations, Space Force's top officer, that had emphasized the need to be prepared for actual kinetic conflict in space.

"The 'logic of space superiority' has changed and that defending the Joint Force 'from space-enabled attack' [emphasis his] is an equal part of the Space Forces space superiority mission  a mission that has been part of US military operations since long before the services establishment in 2019," Saltzman declared, according to Breaking Defense.

Altogether, the unveiling of Space Operations Command's first official painting, its fictitious spaceplane notwithstanding, comes amid a very real surge in serious discussions about the potential for a war outside the Earth's atmosphere.

Contact the author: joe@thedrive.com
Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson of Louisiana spent years fighting against gay rights before joining Congress after the 2016 election.

Before becoming speaker on Wednesday 25 October, Mr Johnson was relatively unknown in Congress as the vice chair of the Republican conference, so much so that some other members of Congress had to Google him following his ascent.

Relentless opposition

An anti-abortion evangelical Christian and a lawyer who has backed creationist projects, Mr Johnsons record on gay rights is one of relentless opposition. He has pointed to his faith as the source of his beliefs.

His activism and anti-LGBT+ work has included restricting gay marriage and access to healthcare services, as well as anti-gay activism at colleges.

More than a decade and a half ago, he was a lawyer and spokesperson for the Alliance Defense Fund (ADF), which advocates for Christians. During that time, he described gay people as sinful and destructive and argued that supporting gay rights could lead to supporting paedophilia, a longtime anti-gay trope. In opinion pieces, he argued that gay sex should be criminalised, ABC News notes.

In 2003, Mr Johnson wrote in a column in The Shreveport Times: There is clearly no right to sodomy in the Constitution, and the right of privacy of the home has never placed all activity with the home outside the bounds of the criminal law.

If someones trapped in a homosexual lifestyle, its dangerous

Mr Johnson has said that being gay is sinful and destructive (EPA)

During Day of Silence protests across the US in 2005 organised to push back against anti-gay biases in education, Mr Johnson and the ADF launched a counterprotest that they called Day of Truth.

Mr Johnson claimed at the time that they were sharing the truth out of love and compassion. He said that the truth came from a strict view of Bible teachings, meaning that if someones trapped in a homosexual lifestyle, its dangerous, according to ABC.

At the counterprotest, the ADF gave out t-shirts stating The Truth Cannot be Silenced as well as cards to students, sharing their view that they couldnt support detrimental personal and social behaviour in reference to being LGBT+.

You can call it sinful or destructive, ultimately its both

Mr Johnson said at the time that he hoped that the event would be peaceful and respectful but also said, You can call it sinful or destructive, ultimately its both, about being gay, the Associated Press wrote in April 2005.

The Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network blasted the ADF and Mr Johnson for taking aim at gay students. Mr Johnson told the press: No one is for bullying and harassment. But thats cloaking their real message, that homosexuality is good for society.

He also claimed that being gay was morally wrong and physically dangerous.

Before he joined Congress, Mr Johnson was a talk radio host, wrote columns, worked as a college professor, and was an instructor at constitutional law seminars. He also spent two years in the Louisiana state legislature.

Elected in 2016 at the same time as former President Donald Trump, Mr Johnson defended Mr Trump in both of his Senate impeachment trials. He also voted against legislation backed by both parties to codify same-sex marriage.

Mr Johnson played a major part in drafting the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act late last year, but the bill was never taken to the floor. It would have stopped the use of federal funds to develop, implement, facilitate, or fund any sexually oriented program, event, or literature for children under the age of 10. Those pushing the bill argued that it would keep inappropriate materials away from children while critics said that it was a push to prevent gay representation.

Someone who doesnt hesitate to scream his hatred for the LGBTQ+ community, HRC president says

The president of the Human Rights Campaign said that Mr Johnson doesnt hesitate to scream his hatred for the LGBTQ+ community (Getty Images)

Kelley Robinson, the president of the Human Rights Campaign, tweeted on Wednesday: Mike Johnson is someone who doesnt hesitate to scream his hatred for the LGBTQ+ community from the rooftops while introducing legislation that seeks to erase us from society and history. Everyone who voted for him will have a stain on their record.

Records show that Mr Johnson first worked for the ADF in 2002, according to ABC. The Southern Poverty Law Center has said that the group has supported the recriminalisation of sexual acts between consenting LGBTQ adults in the US and criminalisation abroad.

The centre noted that the group argued that what they called the homosexual agenda would destroy Christianity and society. The group holds a number of views aimed at restricting the lives of LGBT+ people.

ADF senior counsel Jeremy Tedesco told ABC that the group is one of the nations most respected and successful US Supreme Court advocates working to preserve the fundamental freedoms of speech and religion for all Americans.

He also claimed that the end game of the Southern Poverty Law Center is tyranny, not tolerance.

While working as a lawyer for the ADF, Mr Johnson pushed for a state ban on gay marriage in Louisiana, a measure backed by voters in 2004. It was one of many similar restrictions passed that year.

Pushed to remove healthcare from gay couples

He also filed a lawsuit in 2003 against a New Orleans law that afforded benefits to the same-sex partners of individuals employed by the city, but a state court backed the city.

"The state has spoken clearly that municipalities shouldnt have the right to enter into this arena  the redefining of the family," Mr Johnson said at the time.

As he argued against same-sex partners being included in the health plans of city employees, Mr Johnson said: "When you tear down the taboos, the doors open up for everything. Thats the danger.

We are not trying to tie homosexuality to paedophilia, but when you tear down one barrier, others fall. ... Lets stop here and draw the line here, because then it leads to sexual anarchy, he claimed, according to ABC.

Homosexual marriage is the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy

Mr Johnson once wrote that homosexual marriage is the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy (REUTERS)

In another column for The Shreveport Times, published in February 2004, Mr Johnson wrote: Pro-family advocates are often asked these days, Why should you care? Why is same-sex marriage a threat? The answer is simple: because we tamper with Gods created order at our peril.

If activist judges can reject thousands of years of history and legitimize homosexual marriage, then trans-sexual and group marriages of every sort must logically follow  Experts project that homosexual marriage is the dark harbinger of chaos and sexual anarchy that could doom even the strongest republic, he added.

The Independent has reached out to the office of Mr Johnson for comment.

Mr Johnson defended Louisianas constitutional amendment banning gay marriage in front of the states supreme court in the mid-2000s.

The amendment has one purpose: to protect marriage from attack, he told the justices, according to ABC, citing news reports from the time.

During his time in the state house between 2015 and 2017, Mr Johnson put forward a bill that backers argued would protect people from having to diverge from their religious beliefs but which critics argued would make it easier to discriminate against LGBT+ people.

Quoting a Democrat, Mr Johnson told The Times-Picayne Im not a despicable bigot of the highest order, in 2015.

I know that I brought this bill for the right reason, he added. Defense of liberty is never easy. It always comes at a cost.

The bill did not become law.
Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnsons path in Republican politics began with a yearslong role as the senior attorney and national spokesperson for a group affiliated with the religious right dedicated to dismantling LGBTQ+ freedoms and outlawing abortion.

Johnson worked for that organization, Alliance Defending Freedom, for eight years, from 2002 to 2010, before serving a brief stint as a Louisiana state legislator and then heading to Congress in 2017. He first became a known entity in his state in the late 1990s when he and his wife went on national television as the face of Louisianas new marriage covenant laws, which made it harder to get a divorce.

The social conservative causes that have fueled Johnsons rise, many of which are deeply unpopular with the American public, are already worrisome to Democrats who fear that Johnson  who downplayed the concept of the separation of church and state as recently as April  may try to use the power of the speakership to advance his extreme views.

But some see a flip side, too: He is the perfect foil for the Democratic Party to run against in 2024.

Meet House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who has spent his career trying to dismantle LGBTQ+ rights and outlaw abortion.

Meet House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who has spent his career trying to dismantle LGBTQ+ rights and outlaw abortion.

Johnson spent years making a name for himself at Alliance Defending Freedom, which was founded in 1993 and designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center, the national organization that monitors the activities of domestic hate groups and right-wing extremists.

Lambda Legal, a national civil rights organization focused on LGBTQ+ communities, has previously referred to Alliance Defending Freedom as arguably the most extreme anti-LGBT legal organization in the United States.

The core mission of the Christian legal advocacy group, which used to be called Alliance Defense Fund, is to remake American law so that it favors cisgender, heterosexual, conservative, white Christian men and everyone [else] is a second-class citizen, said Andrew Seidel, an attorney and author of The Founding Myth: Why Christian Nationalism Is Un-American.

If you look at the cases theyve taken  everything they are doing is designed to get to that end goal, Seidel said. It is absolutely striking that this person [is] a couple of heartbeats away from the presidency.

An Alliance Defending Freedom spokesperson pushed back on the idea that the organization is a hate group and directed HuffPost to a page on the organizations website that is dedicated entirely to discrediting the Southern Poverty Law Center.

While serving at Alliance Defending Freedom, Congressman Mike Johnson defended the rule of law and Americans most cherished liberties, Kristen Waggoner, CEO and president of Alliance Defending Freedom, said in a statement. We congratulate and wish him the best as he continues his service to our nation protecting the Constitution and all Americans foundational freedoms.

In his role at the organization, Johnson in 2004 successfully defended Louisianas constitutional amendment that defines marriage as the union of one man and one woman.

The Family Research Council, another far-right anti-LGBTQ+ group that has been designated a hate group, honored Johnson with an award for that victory. It celebrated Johnsons legal argument that Louisianas amendment has one purpose: to protect marriage from attack.

Johnson claimed in 2005 that domestic partner ordinances were nonsense and were really about same-sex, live-in lovers

Johnson claimed in 2005 that domestic partner ordinances were nonsense and were really about same-sex, live-in lovers" trying to force Christians to embrace a certain ideology.

In 2005, Johnson led the Alliance Defending Freedoms campaign to counter GLSENs annual anti-bullying Day of Silence. GLSEN was previously known as the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network.

No one is for bullying and harassment, Johnson said at the time. But thats cloaking their real message  that homosexuality is good for society.

That same year, he joined Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.), a state legislator at the time, on a Future of Marriage panel at the Young Republicans National Convention. Johnson, representing Alliance Defending Freedom, argued that domestic partner ordinances were nonsense and really about trying to force Christians to embrace a certain ideology.

Regardless of what you hear, it is not about benefits, OK? Johnson said, noting he was leading a lawsuit at the time to eliminate New Orleans domestic partner ordinance.

Referring to gay couples as same-sex, live-in lovers, Johnson told the group that the real reason LGBTQ+ people wanted domestic partner benefits was to have that lifestyle made legitimate. Its about recognition of the lifestyle. Its about teaching it as the equivalent of marriage. And dont let anybody fool you and tell you otherwise.

Here is a clip of Johnson condemning gay, live-in lovers:

In 2003, Johnson went so far as to write an editorial in support of criminalizing gay sex, as CNN first reported on Wednesday.

Johnson has led plenty of other Alliance Defending Freedom lawsuits aimed at stripping women of their reproductive rights. In 2012, he sued the Obama administration for requiring religious employers to cover birth control in their health insurance coverage.

The Obama administration has purposely transformed a non-existent problem  access to contraception  into a constitutional crisis, Johnson claimed at the time.

The conservative-led Supreme Court ultimately ruled in 2020 that religious employers can deny birth control coverage.

In another case in 2005, Johnson argued in federal court that New York had violated the Constitution when it rejected Choose Life specialty license plates as part of a state-funded program.

The state has no objective standards to govern the DMVs decision regarding whether an eligible organizations plate design is approved, Johnson said at the time. The denial of The Children First Foundations design is a prime example of the discrimination that can occur.

Alliance Defending Freedom won that lawsuit in 2011 after seven years of litigation.

The Louisiana Republican claimed in 2007 that most people simply dont understand Roe v. Wade  the landmark 1973 Supreme Court decision guaranteeing a womans right to have an abortion that was struck down in 2022  and argued that if they did, they would not like it. Only one-third of Americans supported Roe v. Wade being overturned, according to polling.

The abortion industry has waged a decadeslong deception campaign to suppress the truth about abortion, Johnson told CBNNews, a branch of the conservative Christian Broadcasting Network founded by the late televangelist Pat Robertson. If Americans knew the truth about Roe, they wouldnt be as supportive.

Shortly after Johnson was sworn in as speaker on Wednesday, Democratic operatives were eager to highlight his staunch social conservatism. President Joe Biden has signaled that he plans to run for reelection with messaging about protecting freedoms, including marriage equality and abortion rights.

If Democrats could design in a lab the perfect candidate to run against, that person would look a lot like Mike Johnson, Dan Pfeiffer, who served as the communications director in President Barack Obamas White House, wrote in his newsletter.

Others said it was important the party break through Johnsons cooler disposition, which sets him apart from his fellow conservative bomb-throwers.

Scary guy, said one senior Democratic operative. Jim Jordan, but with better demeanor.

This operative was referring to Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), a diehard ally of former President Donald Trump who also ran for speaker but was thwarted by colleagues for being a bully.

Scary guy. Jim Jordan, but with better demeanor.Senior Democratic operative

Most Democrats in Congress dont know much about Johnson beyond his record of being very anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said he represents many in the GOP who are intent on rolling back basic liberties that were otherwise thought to be enshrined in the nations legal framework.

The new speaker is an unknown, Blumenthal said Wednesday. In terms of what his past positions will mean for future legislation  that incorporates the views that he expressed in the past relating to LGBTQ rights or reproductive health care.

Johnson has certainly taken some strange stands in the vein of conservative Christian legal advocacy. In 2015, as the attorney for a Christian creationist ministry called Answers in Genesis, Johnson filed a federal lawsuit to get tax subsidies to build a Noahs Ark amusement park in Kentucky.

He wrote an op-ed the year before making the case for building the Ark Encounter.

When the Ark Project sails, everybody will benefit, wrote Johnson, even those who are stubbornly trying to sink it.

The Noahs Ark park was eventually built and, as of 2017, was receiving $18 million in tax incentives.

Here is a life-sized replica of Noah's Ark at The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) previously sued to get tax breaks for this park, which is based on the Genesis flood narrative in the Bible.

Here is a life-sized replica of Noah's Ark at The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) previously sued to get tax breaks for this park, which is based on the Genesis flood narrative in the Bible.

Johnson has not tamed his ideology since entering Congress. In April, he gave a speech decrying the so-called separation of church and state, insisting there was nothing in the Constitution barring the government from supporting religious beliefs.

The Founders wanted to protect the church from an encroaching state, not the other way around, Johnson said.

The establishment and free exercise clauses of the Constitutions First Amendment  Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof  are generally viewed as limiting both the governments involvement in religion and religions involvement in government.

Seidel said what is particularly worrisome about Johnsons ties to Alliance Defending Freedom is how powerful and connected the group is.

Conservative Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett did five paid speaking engagements for the group before being confirmed to the high court. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) previously took money from the group, too. Hawleys wife, Erin Hawley, is currently senior counsel at Alliance Defending Freedom and leading its legal effort to ban medication abortion nationwide.

Alliance Defending Freedom has been working to build this shadowy network of power for decades, Seidel said, noting that it has amassed an incredible amount of money. It declared more than $104 million in revenue for 2021.

Theyre a juggernaut, he said.

So now you have a guy who is a constitutional attorney who is dialed into this network of power, with more than $100 million annually, Seidel added. Put those two things together. He was one of the architects of denying the election. Its terrifying. Really, truly terrifying.

Kevin Robillard and Igor Bobic contributed reporting.
For Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), former President Donald Trump s Complete & Total Endorsement was not enough to rally the House Republican conference behind his bid for the Speakers gavel.

But for Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), the No. 3 ranking Republican in the House, Trumps public opposition was enough to effectively end his time as the partys Speaker nominee hours after it began.

The scramble among House Republicans to elect a Speaker, which concluded Wednesday, illustrated both the depths and limits of Trumps influence over the conference.

Republican officials and strategists noted the past few weeks have been a reflection of how Trumps influence is most likely to be felt given the narrow House majority. He is able to pressure a handful of close allies in heavily pro-Trump districts to take a position, but he is likely to struggle to exert much influence over a larger faction of the party, particularly GOP members representing districts President Biden carried in 2020.

I think he definitely still has influence over the party, but it might just not be as strong as it once was, said Sarah Matthews, a former Capitol Hill staffer and Trump White House official. We saw him endorse Jordan, and Jordan didnt ultimately get it. But Trump was able to in effect kill Emmers bid because he came out and blasted him.

The former president largely remained silent as Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) led the push to remove Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) as Speaker.

He weighed in to endorse Jordan, one of his most loyal House allies, as the conference sought to coalesce around its choice to replace McCarthy. And while Jordan eventually got the nod as the partys nominee for Speaker, the Ohio Republican failed to win enough support on the House floor as a block of GOP lawmakers steadfastly opposed him.

Trump found more success in opposing, rather than embracing, a Speaker candidate.

Trump allies were quick to bring out the knives against Emmer as he emerged as a Speaker candidate, with Steve Bannon, Laura Loomer and other far-right figures taking issue with his vote to certify the 2020 election and suggesting he did not align with the MAGA wing of the party.

Trump seemingly dealt a final blow to Emmers chances shortly after Emmer won a vote to become the nominee, deriding the congressman as a RINO and saying it would be a tragic mistake to support him. Emmer dropped out of the running hours later.

On Tuesday night, Trump posted a screenshot on Truth Social of what appeared to be text messages from Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), who briefly ran for Speaker. In the messages, Fleischmann relayed that all of the candidates remaining were 100 percent Trump.

The end result was Wednesdays election of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), an under-the-radar choice with few enemies who is largely aligned with Trump on policy, most notably in his push to overturn the 2020 election results and false claims that the election was fraudulent.

In 2020, Johnson emerged as a key player in Trumps efforts to overturn the results of the presidential election. Johnson, then the vice chair of the House Republican Conference, led an amicus brief backing a Texas lawsuit that sought to reverse the outcomes of the vote in Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Trump, speaking to reporters at a Manhattan courthouse where he was attending a fraud trial for his business empire, praised Johnson as someone whos going to be really spectacular, and maybe for many years to come.

We think Mike Johnson is going to do really well. Hes popular. Hes smart. Hes sharp. Hes going to do fantastic, Trump said. I think hes going to be a fantastic Speaker.

Johnson won the gavel with the full support of the Republican conference Tuesday, including lawmakers closely aligned with Trump.

When Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.) spoke to nominate House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) for Speaker, he argued the process has been about Republicans finding someone who can appease the former president.

As if to underscore Trumps grip on the party, several Republicans stood and applauded, with Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) shouting damn right in agreement.

Trumps critics viewed the former presidents dabbling in the Speaker race as a matter of drawing attention to himself and cautioned against overstating his influence.

Who cares what he thinks anymore. He didnt stand by McCarthy. His total and complete endorsement did nothing for Jordan. He just loves to create dysfunction, Chris Christie (R), a 2024 presidential candidate, wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Trump is the clear front-runner for the Republican Partys presidential nomination in 2024, leading in state and national polls by double digits. He still is the most influential figure in the party, and his words carry influence in ways that those of his 2024 rivals do not.

Still, some strategists downplayed the significance of Trumps role in either contributing to or bringing an end to the chaos that engulfed the House GOP for the past three weeks.

The House of Representatives is a club, and anyone who is not in that club by definition is not in that club. Whether it was ousting Kevin, electing Kevin  Donald Trump is not a part of this conversation, said Doug Heye, a former Capitol Hill aide and GOP strategist. That doesnt say anything about him one way or another.

Weve all given ourselves Trump on the brain and that anything that happens in American life is about Taylor Swift or Donald Trump, Heye added. That may not be true.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Special counsel Jack Smith is urging a federal judge to reinstate a gag order on Donald Trump , arguing that the former president has used a brief reprieve from the restrictions to pressure and attack witnesses like his former chief of staff Mark Meadows.

The 32-page filing on Wednesday night is a remarkable portrayal of a former president as an active danger who must be restricted by a court to not only protect the integrity of the upcoming trial but also the physical safety of government witnesses.

U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over Trumps federal criminal case on charges related to his efforts to subvert the 2020 election, imposed the gag order last week, only to pause it a few days later at Trumps request after he filed an appeal. As soon as it was paused, Trump immediately unleashed a torrent of public invective that would have violated the order if it were in effect, the special counsels team argued in the new brief.

The defendant has returned to the very sort of targeting that the Order prohibits, including attempting to intimidate and influence foreseeable witnesses, and commenting on the substance of their testimony, senior assistant special counsels Molly Gaston and Thomas Windom wrote.

The brief describes Trump as an ongoing danger to witnesses in his forthcoming trial, scheduled to begin in March. Prosecutors say he is keenly aware of his influence on extremist followers who are often motivated by his comments to threaten or attack his perceived enemies. And they say he intentionally stokes the fury of his followers while maintaining distance from the consequences.

He well knows that, by publicly targeting perceived adversaries with inflammatory language, he can maintain a plausible deniability while ensuring the desired results, Gaston and Windom wrote. The defendant knows the effect of his targeting and seeks to use it to his strategic advantage while simultaneously disclaiming any responsibility for the very acts he causes.

The filing represents the starkest case yet painted by federal prosecutors that Trump poses an ongoing threat to witnesses, senior government officials and the justice system as a whole.

To support the claim, Gaston and Windom noted the recent prosecution of a Jan. 6 defendant who was arrested in Barack Obamas neighborhood shortly after Trump reposted a news article that included Obamas home address. And they noted that Marc Short, the former chief of staff to Trumps vice president Mike Pence, alerted the Secret Service after Trump warned he would have to criticize Pence for breaking with him on efforts to overturn the election.

The special counsels argument to U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan also draws heavily on Trumps recent conduct, including his comments on Meadows. On Tuesday, after ABC News reported that Meadows had taken an immunity deal and testified that he repeatedly told Trump the 2020 election was not stolen, Trump took to Truth Social and  after naming Meadows  said only weaklings or cowards would make a deal with federal prosecutors to say harmful things about him.

I dont think Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows? Trump said.

Prosecutors called that an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness in this case.



Smiths team also pointed to Trumps punishment Wednesday by a New York state judge, Arthur Engoron, who fined Trump $10,000 for his second violation in recent days of a separate gag order in a civil case there related to Trumps business empire. Trump publicly criticized Engorons clerk during a press gaggle outside the courthouse Wednesday, just a few weeks after Engoron ordered him not to assail courthouse employees. That restriction itself was a punishment after Trump posted an image of the clerk while making unfounded claims about her relationship with Sen. Chuck Schumer. Engoron fined Trump $5,000 last week for violating the order by failing to remove the post from his campaign website.

Chutkan imposed her own gag order last week in the election subversion case after finding that Trumps repeated attacks on potential trial witnesses and Smith posed a danger to the proceedings. But on Friday, she agreed to pause the restrictions after Trump appealed her order and argued that aspects of it were vague. Chutkan asked Smith and Trump to file briefs about whether the restrictions should remain in place or be lifted during Trumps appeal. Trumps response to the prosecutors is due Saturday.

Without explicitly referring to the prospect of incarcerating Trump for violations of the order, the new prosecution filing raises that possibility: It urges Chutkan to make one of the conditions of Trumps pretrial release that he not comment on potential witnesses in the case. The prosecutors pointed to a federal statute that provides for detention of a defendant who fails to comply with release conditions.

While Trumps lawyers and the American Civil Liberties Union have complained that Chutkans order is vague, particularly because it bars any statement that targets potential witnesses, trial participants or staff, prosecutors said Chutkans intent is clear enough.

In context, it is clear that the Order uses the word target to mean singling out a trial participant as the object of general abuse, scorn, derision or the like, Gaston and Windom wrote.

The government suggests that Trump could convey the same messages in less inflammatory language while abiding by the order. But the prosecutors also seem to be seeking to rein in the bluster and bravado that are Trumps trademark.

It limits only the sort of fact-free, disparaging, inflammatory, ad hominem attacks that, as the defendant knows, tend to provoke harassment, threats, and intimidation from his followers, the prosecutors wrote.
St. Helenas Anglican Church  one of the oldest churches in the country and a downtown Beaufort landmark with a steeple that soars toward the heavens  is on the verge of expanding and creating a new congregation seven miles west in Habersham. The Habersham congregation, which has been meeting outside, will have its own church building and the addition is the first expansion since St. Helenas founding more than 300 years ago.

The mother church, one of the largest in the area, draws some 700 people to its downtown home on Newcastle Street each Sunday. Incorporated in 1712, decades before the U.S. fought for its independence. The building on Newcastle came along in 1724. While it has undergone numerous modifications, St. Helenas remains one of the oldest continuously used church buildings in the United States. One of its most eye-catching features is its green-colored copper-plated steeple, which is featured on many Beaufort postcards.

Now construction is about to begin on a daughter church, known as Parish Church, Habersham, in the master plan-designed community of the same name west of the city known for its new urbanism design features.

Bishop Chip Edgar of the Anglican Diocese of South Carolina will mark the start of construction with a visit to the new church Saturday.

Its hard to even express how intensely and for how long weve had this as our goal, the Rev. Jamie Sosnowski said.

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor worship had been occurring at Habersham, with 40 to 50 people showing up for prayer meetings and potlucks. But the pandemic, Sosnowski added, drove home the importance of gathering with people you see at the post office or grocery store and gave us all the more reason to pursue it as its own church.

At a time when people were more isolated and separated and quicker to anger than I can remember, we found unity in Jesus together, face to face, in person, Sosnowski said.

The church will look like a traditional colonial southern church, a style that is common across coastal South Carolina.

So many new churches, Sosnowski says, are more about stage and lights than about steeples and bells.

Like its mother, the daughter church will include a steeple with a bell tower and altar rail. The goal, Sosnowski says, is to build a church that fits in with Habersham in such a way that you cant tell how long its been there.

Were a traditional group so were building what you would think of when you think of a traditional church, he said.

The main church congregation in Beaufort draws roughly 700 people each Sunday and it also offers popular outdoor services on Fripp Island that draws hundreds more, especially during the summer.

The Habersham church will be able to comfortably accommodate up to 200 people. Its already seeing over 100 people for its outdoor services that are held under a wedding reception-like tent, which reminds the congregants of Old Testament accounts of the Israelites moving the meeting tent from place to place as they awaited entrance into the Promise Land.

The new church is being constructed at 100 North Market St., across from Earthfit, a fitness Center. If all goes as planned, doors will open by Christmas Eve 2024.

Plans for the church came with some controversy two years ago. It was initially planned on a parcel of land that was zoned for a civic use. But some residents objected to one denomination being located there.

That was a tough season, Sosnowski said.

As a compromise, the church site was moved 300 yards away to two commercial lots that were combined.

To date, $3.2 million has been raised for construction, with $400,000 yet to go.

As Sosnowski views it, the building is not a finish line, but rather a starting line to begin serving from a new location. Slow and steady growth is expected. One day, he says, maybe the new church can plant another Anglican church in the area.

Whats next

Parish Church at Habersham will conduct a groundbreaking for its new church at 1 p.m. Saturday at 100 North Market. Bishop Chip Edgar and the Rev. Jamie Sosnowski will be speaking.
Two of Durhams elected officials, one Muslim and one Jewish, united to condemn hate this week amid an intensifying war between Israel and Hamas.

County Commissioners Nida Allam and Wendy Jacobs made the joint statement at their Monday night meeting.

It calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and also condemns acts of antisemitism and Islamaphobia in the United States.

Heres what they said.

NC leaders statement on war in Gaza

Both: We come together tonight as mourners.

Allam: As a Muslim.

Jacobs: As a Jew.

Allam: As two members of our Durham community who are devastated by the violence in Palestine and Israel  and horrified by the rising wave of both Islamophobia and antisemitism that is sweeping our country in response.

Jacobs: Tonight, we remember Wadea Al-Fayoume, a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy, who was stabbed to death in his Illinois home simply for being Muslim.

Allam: We mourn with our Jewish brothers and sisters, many of whom have friends and relatives who were killed in the horrific attacks carried out by Hamas on Oct. 7.

Jacobs: We mourn with our Palestinian brothers and sisters, who have lived under repression for decades, and who are now being killed indiscriminately by the Israeli government  men, women and children.

Allam: We see images of unimaginable destruction  babies younger than my daughter Aaliyah being ruthlessly killed, their tiny bodies bleeding.

Jacobs: Even from thousands of miles away, we are called not to look away.

Allam: Our hearts cry out in grief.

Jacobs: But we cannot let our grief paralyze us into inaction.

Allam: Or silence, or division.

Jacobs: This is a defining moment for all of us.

Allam: And we know we can rise to it. After all, we have been in this moment before.

Jacobs: Following the horrific terror attacks of 9/11 that shattered our country.

Allam: Only being 7 years old at the time, I dont remember a world where we havent constantly faced religious discrimination.

Jacobs: But we saw a better future. We chose to serve and lead because we dreamt of lasting peace for our communities.

Allam: For our children.

Jacobs: As a Jew, I believe in Tikkun Olam and our sacred responsibility to heal, repair and improve the world and pursue social justice to create a more just world.

Allam: As a Muslim, I follow the Qurans Surah Al-Maidah verse 32: If anyone kills a person, it would be as if he killed all of humanity, and if anyone saves a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all of humanity.

Jacobs: Blocking humanitarian aid, cutting off access to food and water, bombing civilians, mostly children, are acts of collective punishment that will not restore the innocent lives stolen in Israel.

Allam: Promoting antisemitic ideals  or conflating all Jews with the State of Israels actions  will not avenge the innocent lives stolen in Gaza or the West Bank.

Jacobs: We have a moral and ethical responsibility to call out Islamophobia and antisemitism alike, because all forms of hate thrive in the same ecosystem.

Allam: And to stop the occupation now.

Jacobs: And to call for an immediate ceasefire. It is the only way Palestinians and Israelis can peacefully work towards equal self-determination.

Allam: Together, we stand united. Grieving.

Jacobs: But hopeful. Broken.

Allam: But ready to mend.

Both: We hope all of you will stand with us and for us, on the side of peace and justice for all. Thank you.

The Durham Report

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The Stanislaus County Sheriffs Office will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the county on Friday night.

The specific location and the exact time frame of the checkpoint will not be announced before or during the event, said department spokesman Sgt. Luke Schwartz. However, it will take place sometime during the mid-evening hours of Friday night and last until the early morning hours of Saturday.

We want impaired drivers to do the right thing, enjoy responsibly at home and utilize a designated driver, said Schwartz.

Deputies will be looking for signs of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, said a Sheriffs Office news release.

The release also advises residents to continue using their seat belts, putting away their cell phones, following the rules of the road, and keeping an eye out for dangerous drivers in addition to finding responsible ways to travel, such as: designating a driver, finding alternative modes of transportation like calling a taxi or ride-share service and preventing those who have been drinking from driving.

Drunk drivers often face jail time, the loss of their driver licenses, higher insurance rates and dozens of other unanticipated expenses ranging from attorney fees, court costs, having car towed, collision repair, and lost wages due to time off from work, according to the release. Even worse, a drunk driver can cause a traffic crash that claims someones life or even their own.

A grant from the California Cannabis Tax Fund helped secure the Sheriffs Office access to over $100,000 to be used for things such as DUI checkpoints, Schwartz said.

He added that the exact cost of Fridays checkpoint was unknown and could fluctuate. Many of the personnel who will be assigned to it will be working on their normal days off, which would necessitate overtime pay, said Schwartz.
A State College man was sentenced Thursday to 20 years in prison for repeatedly engaging in a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl and soliciting her to send him sexually explicit images.

Kristopher R. Hall, 46, was also sentenced by federal Judge Jennifer P. Wilson to 20 years of supervision once hes released from prison. Wilson recommended he be incarcerated at a federal prison in either Ohio or Virginia.

Hall also solicited and received sexually explicit images from three other girls whose ages ranged from 11 to 15, a federal prosecutor wrote in a document sent to Wilson.

He pleaded guilty in January to one count of attempted production of images containing the sexual exploitation of a child. Four charges were dropped.

A licensed professional counselor who has a doctorate in psychology concluded Hall has a below average risk of re-offending, but also wrote Hall has a long-standing pornography addiction that needs to be addressed as this is a dynamic risk factor for reoffending.

Messages left with defense lawyers Steve Trialonas and Brian W. Perry were not immediately returned.

Hall is incarcerated at the Dauphin County Prison. He pleaded guilty in November to one felony count of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse of someone younger than 16 in Cumberland County.

Hes scheduled to be sentenced in that case Tuesday.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Over 700,000 beneficiaries who were earlier considered as non-poor will be included again in the conditional cash transfer program.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Thursday said that 761,140 families still need assistance after a reassessment of over a million Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) households tagged as non-poor based on Listahanan 3.

"Kasi nakita natin na hindi pa nila kaya economically na ma-sustain ang kanilang pangangailangan," said 4Ps national program manager Gemma Gabuya in a forum.

[Translation: We found that they cannot sustain themselves economically.]

The DSWD conducted the reassessment after delisted beneficiaries appealed the move, citing their poor economic and social situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising prices of basic goods.

Gabuya said officials looked at several factors, including how many times beneficiary families are able to eat in one day, health, and if there are still children in the family attending school.

She added that reactivated beneficiaries can expect to begin receiving cash grants again beginning this month or November. Aid was halted in January.

Only 339,660 families were found to be self-sufficient, with a more stable source of income to meet basic needs such as education and health care, Gabuya said.

These households will officially exit the 4Ps and will be endorsed to their local government unit for post-service monitoring.

On the other hand, the DSWD also warned the public against promises by candidates in the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections that they can get families into the program.

Social Welfare Assistant Secretary Rommel Lopez saidonly DSWD personnel can process 4Ps applications.

Wala po silang matuturo, wala silang maire-rekomenda dahil sistema po ng DSWD ang gumagana sa pag-identify ng ating 4Ps beneficiaries, Lopez said.

[Translation: They cannot point you to anyone or recommend someone because it's only the DSWD system that can identify 4Ps beneficiaries.]
Pennsylvania State Police are looking for a woman who was last seen in Butler County on Sept. 22, 1981.

According to state police, Michelle Reidenbach was last seen at around 8:30 p.m. in the parking lot of the Super Duper Market on South Main Street in Zelienople.

Reidenbachs mother contacted Zelienople police after she didnt return home after work.

Reidenbach was 16 years old when she disappeared. She was 5 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 110 pounds.

State police also said she had dark blonde hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing blue jeans, a wine-colored v-neck sweater and a gold necklace with a knot pendant.

Anyone having information on this incident is asked to anonymously contact the Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers Toll Free at 1-800-4PA-TIPS (8477) or online at https://www.p3tips.com/tipform.aspx?ID=107.

A $5,000 reward is also being offered for information that leads to an arrest, the solving of the case or Reidenbachs location.

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Tennessee Rep. Darren Jernigan will serve as the director of legislative affairs for Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell's administration, O'Connell announced Thursday.

Jernigan, D-Old Hickory, has represented District 60 in the Tennessee General Assembly since 2012. He also previously served as District 11 Metro Council member from 2007 to January 2014.

"We expect that his team will grow very soon," O'Connell said.

Darren Jernigan

Jamari Brown will return to the mayor's office as director of economic and community development. He previously served in the role for nine months in 2019 before returning to the private sector.

O'Connell said Brown will work closely with Chief Development Officer Bob Mendes, as well as Isaac Addae in the Office of Opportunity, administering the Small Business Recovery Fund and managing youth opportunity programs, workforce development and broader economic access in Nashville.

Brittany Irby, who has served as director of community engagement at MP&F Strategic Communications since September 2021, will serve as the director of the Office of Neighborhoods and Community Engagement under O'Connell's administration.

MP&F Vice President Javier Solano will join O'Connell's communications team as speech writer.

Jamari Brown, director of the Nashville Mayor's Office of Economic and Community Development addresses attendees during a groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Tennessee Titans practice facility and corporate offices at Saint Thomas Sports Park Friday, Dec. 13, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell hires state rep., other staff
PATERSON  The call for help came from a woman who locked herself in her bathroom after her boyfriend hit her in the face. The victim told the police dispatchers that her attacker was still in the apartment on Hamilton Avenue and that he had a gun.

Paterson Police Officer Jeury DeJesus, with less than 15 months' experience as a street cop, was on his way to answer the call.

DeJesus, who is 24, knew the challenges of domestic violence cases. Emotions run high. Both offenders and victims can become dangerous and volatile. Add a gun to the equation  as in the Hamilton Avenue call  and things can get much worse very fast. About 14% of police line-of-duty deaths happen during domestic calls, law enforcement experts say.

We make sure we stay on our toes, DeJesus said. Stay alert to the situation.

Paterson Police Officer Jeury DeJesus poses for a photo at Paterson Police Department on Friday, October 20, 2023.

That mindset helped Paterson police resolve the domestic dispute by keeping the woman safe, putting her boyfriend in jail, and seizing from him a handgun loaded with 18 bullets without drawing their own weapons, officials said. DeJesus ended up being named Patersons Officer of the Month for September for his efforts.

Thanks to his dedication and courage in the face of danger, he was able to take a gun off the streets of Paterson and ensured a peaceful end to a situation that could have ended with violence, the Police Department said in announcing DeJesus award.

What happened?

It was 4:33 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 25, when the abused woman called police. DeJesus and his partner, Julian Vizcaino, had 42 minutes left in an overnight shift that had started at 6 p.m. the day before.

DeJesus and Vizcaino were in Unit 114, their vehicle patrolling Patersons crime-ridden 4th Ward, where Hamilton Avenue is. The warning about the gun meant they would have plenty of backup. It was what cops call a hot job.

Sgts. William Niebanck, Ryan Duffy and Thomas Giaquinto converged on the scene. The three of them have almost 50 years of police experience combined. They had worked in plainclothes details assigned to some of Patersons most dangerous streets and confiscated countless guns in their careers. Also responding were officers from another patrol vehicle, Nicholas OLeary and Mohammed Ahmed.

(From left to right) Sergeant Thomas Giaquinto, Officer Jeury DeJesus, Officer Mohammed Ahmed and Sergeant William Niebanck pose for a photo at Paterson Police Department on Friday, October 20, 2023.

Isa Abbassi, the officer in charge of the Paterson Police Department under state control, gave his approval for the officers involved in the case to give a news interview about the arrest. During the previous 13 years, other Paterson chiefs almost never allowed rank-and-file cops to talk to the media about specific arrests they made.

Niebanck and DeJesus were working on the night when Paterson Press went to police headquarters to do the interviews. They said the woman was inside a tiny third-floor apartment.

The officers knocked on the door and identified themselves as police, and soon she walked into the hallway, speaking to the cops in a low voice, Niebanck said. The veteran officer recalled noticing a red abrasion on the left side of the womans face. He said the woman told the officers her boyfriend still had the gun.

Then the police walked inside the apartment with their own guns still in their holsters, Niebanck said.

Paterson Police Sergeant William Niebanck poses for a photo at Paterson Police Department on Friday, October 20, 2023.

It wasnt necessary to rush in there with guns blazing, said the 54-year-old officer, citing de-escalation tactics.

DeJesus and Vizcaino made sure they kept the woman and her boyfriend separated, while Duffy stood on the mans left side and Gianquinto on his right, a couple of feet away from him, Niebanck said.

The boyfriend was agitated as he spoke with the cops, Niebanck said.

Public safety: Paterson has deadliest month in 3 years, with 6 October homicides so far

He would get emotional, then he would calm down, the officer said. He would get emotional, then he would calm down.

Duffy asked the man if he had something on him, Niebanck recalled.

I got lots of stuff on me, Niebanck quoted the boyfriend as saying.

At that point, the man reached under his sweatshirt into his waistband, Niebanck said. Cops in Paterson know waistbands are where criminals in the city often hide weapons.

Duffy grabbed the boyfriends arm, while Niebanck seized a 9 mm handgun, Niebanck said. The gun had an illegal high-capacity magazine, the type that allows someone to fire many bullets without reloading, police said. There were 17 rounds in the magazine and one in the guns chamber, ready to be fired, police said.

Authorities have not released the boyfriends name, to protect the anonymity of the woman. He is 30 years old, and the woman 29, officials said.

City Hall: Should Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh dial down his attacks on NJs attorney general?

What were the charges?

The man was charged with aggravated assault, possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, possession of a large-capacity magazine, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, and criminal mischief.

A judge on Sept. 27 granted the Passaic County Prosecutors Office request that the man remain jailed while his trial is pending, city police officials said.

Joe Malinconico is editor of Paterson Press. Email: editor@patersonpress.com

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Paterson NJ cop on making gun arrest on domestic abuse call
I stayed solo at Disney World's Swan Hotel for $390 a night. It's the best deal on the property if you can afford it.

The Swan Hotel is located near the Disney BoardWalk. Jacqueline Dole

I stayed by myself at Disney World's Swan Hotel near Epcot and Hollywood Studios for $390 a night.

The resort has plenty of restaurants, pools, and other amenities to utilize during your stay.

I love that you can use Marriott points and stay in rooms with great views.

The Walt Disney World Swan Hotel is a Marriott-owned property located in the Disney BoardWalk area.

Even though it's managed by an outside party, it offers guests all the perks of staying at a deluxe Disney resort.

I've stayed at the hotel a number of times, and I recently spent two nights by myself in a deluxe resort-view room with a king bed and a balcony. Although room rates fluctuate throughout the year, I paid $390 a night, which included taxes and the $40 resort fee.

Here's what it was like.

The Swan has all the benefits of a deluxe Disney resort for a (usually) lower price tag.

There are plenty of amenities across the Swan property. Jacqueline Dole

The Swan, Dolphin, and newer Swan Reserve, which are all part of the same complex, are operated by Marriott. But they're still considered Disney resorts.

That means guests can use Marriott loyalty status and points to book rooms while accessing Disney perks, like early park access and extended evening hours on select nights.

Pricing can fluctuate throughout the year, especially if a big conference is held at the resort or you're traveling during popular school vacations. But on average, the Swan and Dolphin cost less than Disney deluxe resorts, which average closer to $500 or $600 a night.

The Swan and Dolphin were built by legendary architect Michael Graves.

Michael Graves designed the cartoon-like features of the resort property. Jacqueline Dole

I love the look of the Swan and Dolphin resort area, which was built in the 1990s and designed by architect Michael Graves.

The two hotel buildings are peach with teal paintings of waves and banana leaves around the exterior. They're also decorated with enormous swans, dolphins, shells, and large water features.

Some visitors like the whimsical design, and others don't enjoy it as much as other resorts, but I personally love it.

The two hotels are connected by an outdoor pathway and share amenities.

The Swan and Dolphin hotels are easy to walk between. Jacqueline Dole

The pathway between the hotel buildings is home to the dock to board Disney's Friendship boats, free water taxis that cruise between Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and the other Epcot-area resorts.

The hotels also offer bus services to the theme parks and Disney Springs, and they're located just a 15- to 30-minute walk from both Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Pro tip: The bus service to Magic Kingdom stops at the Ticket and Transportation Center, or TTC, instead of the theme-park gates. Guests can transfer to the monorail or ferry at the TTC to get to the park.

There are over 20 restaurants and lounges across the resort property.

The Swan and Dolphin are home to several restaurants, including Rosa Mexicano. Jacqueline Dole

The Swan and Dolphin both offer a substantial number of on-site dining, including options that are open later than most Disney restaurants.

My favorite spots in the Swan are Kimonos, a sushi bar that also has karaoke until 1 a.m., and Il Mulino, the perfect place to carbo-load on pasta before a day at the parks.

There are also great options right across the bridge at the Dolphin, including the Mexican-inspired chain Rosa Mexicano.

The Swan offers room service until midnight, which hasn't returned to many Disney World resorts (apart from Grand Floridian) since early in the coronavirus pandemic.

The Swan has multiple pool areas.

I like the relaxing pools at the Swan. Jacqueline Dole

The Swan and Dolphin have six on-site pools, some that are quieter and great for doing laps, and others that feature water slides and waterfall features.

There are also two pool bars and QR codes on every pool lounger, which allows guests to order beverages and food directly to their chairs.

I usually think the pool areas at Disney resorts are too crowded, leaving nowhere to truly relax. A huge advantage of staying at the Swan is that there's no shortage of space to grab a seat by the pool and enjoy a nice break from the parks.

Guests can use swan-shaped paddle boats during their stay at no extra cost.

The paddle boats are located in the water just outside the Swan Hotel. Jacqueline Dole

Other resort amenities include ping-pong and billiards tables, a sandy beach with hammocks, and free swan-shaped paddle boats for guests.

My room was spacious and comfortable.

There isn't any Disney theming, but the Swan Hotel rooms are big. Jacqueline Dole

My room came equipped with robes, a mini fridge, a couch, a desk, and a balcony. It also had an additional vanity outside of the bathroom door, which is perfect when you have more than one person getting ready in the morning.

It was large enough that I had space to unpack during my stay without feeling cramped  something I can't say about all properties in the area. The bed was also really comfortable, but the walls seemed a bit thin, which can be challenging if you have a particularly loud neighbor.

Die-hard Disney fans also won't find over-the-top decor here. The rooms aren't studded with Mickey Mouse and opt for more of a traditional hotel color palette.

Some of the rooms have balconies that look out over the resort and nearby theme parks.

I had a lovely view of the Disney BoardWalk from my room. Jacqueline Dole

One reason I prefer to stay at the Swan is that more rooms with single king or queen beds have balconies, as opposed to the more common figuration of two doubles at the Dolphin.

The balconies look out over the resort grounds, the BoardWalk area, and even the nearby theme parks depending on where your room is situated. Mine overlooked the BoardWalk area with views of Epcot in the distance.

The Swan is one of my top resort choices for a trip to Disney World.

I was able to see the Epcot fireworks from my hotel room. Jacqueline Dole

The Swan offers the best of both worlds. It's located steps away from the heart of Disney World and offers perks like late-night dining, coffee shops stocked with otherwise impossible-to-find products like Topo Chico, and room service.

Guests still get access to extended park hours, and the hotel also hosts its own annual food festival, The Food & Wine Classic, which offers seminars and food and drinks from the property's restaurants.

Finally, the ability to utilize Marriott points is a unique advantage for guests hoping to keep control of their vacation budget. My two-night stay cost $780, which is cheaper than most deluxe Disney World resorts.

Read the original article on Insider
Global carmaker Stellantis said Thursday it will buy a 20 percent stake in Chinese electric car maker Leapmotor, making it the latest European brand seeking a foothold in the country's highly competitive market via partnerships with local manufacturers.

Hangzhou-based Leapmotor only produces electric vehicles and is relatively unknown in Europe, despite selling 10,000 cars a month in China, while Stellantis is one of the world's largest carmakers, owning popular brands including Alfa Romeo and Jeep.

Under the deal, the Netherlands-based firm will spend 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion) on the stake in Leapmotor.

The two firms will also establish a Stellantis-led joint venture, Leapmotor International, which will hold "exclusive rights for the export and sale, as well as manufacturing, of Leapmotor products outside Greater China", Stellantis said.

"As consolidation unfolds among the capable electric vehicles start-ups in China, it becomes increasingly apparent that a handful of efficient and agile new generation EV players, like Leapmotor, will come to dominate the mainstream segments in China," Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said in a statement.

"It's the perfect time to take a leading role in supporting the global expansion plans of Leapmotor, one of the most impressive new EV players who has a similar tech-first, entrepreneurial mindset to ours," he said.

With 200 vehicles on French roads since last spring, Leapmotor is seeking to clear regulatory hurdles from the European Union in order to deploy more widely in France -- its first target market in Europe.

The start-up offers a compact model, the T03, priced at 26,000 euros -- aimed at meeting market demand for entry-level electric cars.

Leapmotor told AFP in September that it was ready to ally with a European group, though it did not confirm rumours about a potential alliance with Stellantis.

The company's CEO, Zhu Jiangming, hailed the partnership with Stellantis as a "great milestone" in the firm's history.

Stellantis already has a presence in China, via a tie-up with the Chinese group Dongfeng Motor to sell its Peugeot and Citroen cars in the world's second-largest economy.

But it has struggled to gain a foothold, announcing last week that it would sell the three factories owned by that joint venture to Dongfeng Motor in line with a "strategy of reducing our assets in China".

And a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group filed for bankruptcy last year.

Other European manufacturers have also stepped up partnerships with Chinese companies to win over local customers.

In July, German car giant Volkswagen announced it would invest more than 600 million euros in Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer XPeng.

cd-oho/je/dan
Stellantis said Thursday it is buying a piece of Chinese EV maker Leapmotor for $1.85 billion to create a global partnership. As the UAW expanded its strike against Stellantis, CEO Carlos Tavares (C) said it is supporting the global expansion of the Chinese company. Photo by Christophe Petit Tesson/EPA

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Stellantis said Thursday it is spending $1.85 billion to buy about 20% of Chinese EV company Leapmotor in a new strategic global EV partnership. It creates Leapmotor International, a 51/49 Stellantis-led joint venture for markets outside China.

According to Stellantis, it's an industry-first global EV partnership between a leading automaker and a Chinese "pure-play NEV OEM."

The partnership is designed to accelerate Leapmotor's sales in China while leveraging Stellantis' global operations to grow Leapmotor's brands in Europe and other global markets.

"As consolidation unfolds among the capable electric vehicles start-ups in China, it becomes increasingly apparent that a handful of efficient and agile new generation EV players, like Leapmotor, will come to dominate the mainstream segments in China," said Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares in a statement. "We feel it's the perfect time to take a leading role in supporting the global expansion plans of Leapmotor, one of the most impressive new EV players who has a similar tech-first, entrepreneurial mindset to ours."

Leapmotor founder and CEO Zhu Jiangming called it a great milestone in his company's history.

"We believe in win-win partnerships formed by strong players in the fast-evolving environment. Working with Stellantis, we will continue to be innovative and creative in technology and business synergies and will bring Leapmotor EV cars to the global market."

Stellantis said it is investing more than $52 billion over 10 years in electrification to transform its European vehicle market to 100% electric by 2030. Stellantis wants its U.S. electric vehicle sales to reach 50% by 2030.

Stellantis said Leapmotor's cell-to-chassis technology and "its unique vertical integration model maximizes scalability, enabling Leapmotor to quickly respond to customer needs."

Leapmotor is focused on the mid-to-high end EV market, the largest and fastest-growing segment in China.

The Chinese investment deal comes as about 6,800 Stellantis U.S. UAW workers expanded their strike to the company's Sterlign Heights Michigan assembly plant.

According to the UAW, Stellantis has the highest revenue and profits among the Detroit Three automakers, but has "the worst proposal on the table regarding wage progression, temporary worker pay and conversion to full-time, cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) and more."

While the UAW has reached a tentative deal at Ford, it is ramping up the strike pressure on Stellantis and GM.

The Ford deal, which still has to be approved by a vote of rank and file workers to be finalized, came Wednesday after the union expanded its strikes against Stellantis and GM.
Author Stephen King railed against gun violence in the wake of Wednesdays mass shooting in Maine, calling for people to stop electing apologists for murder.

Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people, King wrote in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder.

At least 16 people were killed in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday in a mass shooting incident at two locations. Local authorities said the suspect remains at large and residents were instructed to shelter in place. Firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, has been named as a person of interest.

Maine State Police expanded the shelter-in-place advisory overnight Thursday to include residents of Lisbon after finding a vehicle of interest there. The shelter-in-place notice was also expanded to include the town of Bowdoin, which is about 20 miles south of Maines capital, Augusta.

King, a native of Maine who went to high school in Lisbon, said the shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where he lives.

Top Stories from The Hill

In a later post on X, King wrote, THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN IN OTHER COUNTRIES.

Authorities said a shooter opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar, killing at least 16 people and injuring dozens of others.

More than 100 federal and local investigators are part of the manhunt for Card, who authorities said is a firearms instructor in the Army Reserve assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine. Police said Card is considered armed and dangerous.

King has spoken out about gun violence in recent months and has called on lawmakers to take further action on the issue.

It might be time to stop talking about Hunter Bidens laptop and do something about Americas problem with gun violence, King wrote in a May post on X, in reference to the congressional investigations into President Biden and his son Hunter Bidens alleged foreign business dealings.

Sign up for the latest from The Hill here

Responding to a separate post in May from Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), who was discussing Bidens economic policies, King wrote, I think you should do something about mass shootings.

The Associated Press reported the shooting marked the countrys 36th mass killing this year, according to a database from the AP and USA Today. At least 188 people have reportedly died in these mass killings, which are defined as incidents in which four or more people have died in a 24-hour period, not including the killer.

So far this year, the U.S. has experienced the second-highest number on record of mass killings and deaths to this point in a year, the AP reported. Only 2019 had more mass killings, it said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Some Freeport officials are asking for the removal of a high-ranking member of the Stephenson County Sheriff's Office after a major Illinois newspaper reported he was a member of an anti-government extremist group.

The Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ Chicago reported this week that they gained access to a leaked membership list for the Oath Keepers and identified Chief Deputy Andrew Schroeder, second-in-command of the sheriff's department, as a member. The article said Schroeder became an Oath Keeper when he was working for the Freeport Police Department.

The far-right extremists have come to be known for playing a prominent role in the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

Wednesday, Jodi Coss, chair of the Stephenson County Democratic Party, said any officers' affiliation with the group should be a concern to all residents regardless of their political affiliation.

"I think that anyone who is a member of the Oath Keepers should not be allowed on our police and sheriff's departments," she said.

More: Rockford-area sheriff tied to group described as 'extreme-right' and 'anti-government'

Coss said she is trying to determine if Schroeder's ties to the group are a violation of the sheriff's department's code of ethics or code of conduct.

"I also feel like we really need a full investigation because I want to know if there are more members of our sheriff's department and Freeport Police Department who are associated with these kinds of groups," she said.

Stephenson County Board member Jim Hart, who caucuses with the Democrats, but identifies himself as an independent, said, "I am absolutely shocked and dismayed that we have a member of our county sheriff's office that's an Oath Keeper.

"Secondly, I most certainly hope that our sheriff did not know anything about this, and I have no reason to believe that he did. And I hope that no one in our county government, including our current chairman, knew anything about this."

On Thursday, Stephenson County Sheriff Steve Stovall said he investigated Schroeder's alleged involvement over a year ago.

Stovall said he found an Army National Guard Member reached out to Schroeder about the Oath Keepers in 2010. Stovall said Schroeder received a link to join the group and did so.

Stovall also said a year later, in 2011, Schroeder changed his email address and no longer had any further contact with the group.

"During his brief membership Andrew Schroeder never attended any meetings and did not knowingly have any contact with any members," Stovall said in a statement.

Stovall later said, "I denounce the Oath Keepers and all they represent, as does Chief Deputy Andrew Schroeder."

Schroeder, who could not be reached Wednesday for comment, is a former county board member and is currently vice chair of the Stephenson County Republican Central Committee, which is chaired by Illinois Sen. Andrew Chesney.

Chesney issued a statement Wednesday to the Journal-Standard:

"I have conferred with Andrew Schroeder, and he is not a member of the Oath Keepers. He disavows them, as do I in the strongest terms. Chief Deputy Schroeder has an impeccable record of service that spans 25 years, and any suggestion that he is a member of an anti-government militia is untrue and unfounded."

The Anti-Defamation League, a nonpartisan organization that fights antisemitism, extremism and all forms of hate, describes the Oath Keepers as a large but loosely organized collection of right-wing anti-government extremists who are part of the militia movement, which believes that the federal government has been coopted by a shadowy conspiracy that is trying to strip American citizens of their rights.

The ADL said what differentiates the Oath Keepers from other anti-government extremist groups is their explicit focus on recruiting current and former military, law enforcement and first responder personnel.

Stewart Rhodes, the leader of the Oath Keepers militia, was sentenced in May to 18 years in prison after he was convicted of seditious conspiracy charges for the role he played in helping to mobilize the pro-Trump attack on the Capitol.

All told, more than 1,100 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 350 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Calls to Stephenson County Board Chairman Scott Helm and Mayor Jodi Miller were not returned.

Chris Green: 815-397-6412; cgreen@rrstar.com; @chrisfgreen

This article originally appeared on Rockford Register Star: Freeport-area official used to be an Oath Keepers member
Friends of 15-year-old Ali Khazneh remain at his grave after his funeral. Ali was shot by Israeli forces as they drove through his village on their way to the nearby Nour Shams refugee camp in the occupied West Bank. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

The funeral started loudly, with dozens of automatic rifles firing into the air and men chanting as they carried the body of 15-year-old Ali Khazneh, wrapped in Palestinian flags, from the mosque to the cemetery crowded with mourners.

Mourners surround and march carrying Ali Khazneh to his burial.

Mourners carry the body of 15-year-old Ali Khazneh, wrapped in Palestinian flags, from the mosque to the cemetery. Above, Ali's 20-year-old brother, Mohammad, is at the center at the head of the litter, holding its handle. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

To his friends, Ali was a jokester, always a jovial presence in the street.

To his family, he was a boy who died with a rock in his hand as Israel's armored vehicles passed through his village.

For the Palestinian politicians and fighters assembled that day for the funeral, Ali was a symbol of Palestinian national unity and an example for others to follow as violence surges in the West Bank.

"Oh martyr to you we swear, from your goals we will not stray," the men carrying his body chanted.

The funeral ended quietly. The crowds faded away, and with them the shooting, the shouting, the speeches. A handful of Ali's friends remained with his older brother, 20-year-old Mohammad Khazneh, who sat by the grave, his eyes red as he laid his hand on the cornerstone and stayed frozen in place. The rest were still too, stuck in a wordless eulogy.

His death was another in the worst surge of violence to have swept the West Bank in some 15 years. In the weeks since Oct. 7, when the Palestinian militant group Hamas killed more than 1,400 Israelis, Israel has focused on Gaza, where it is widely expected to launch a ground invasion.

But it has also pursued a wide-scale campaign to root out militants across the West Bank. Palestinians accuse Israel of using the Gaza-based Hamas attack as a casus belli to remove more of their people and expand settlers' presence in the West Bank, where more than 2.7 million Palestinians live under an Israeli military occupation that began in 1967.

Read more: 'I need to ask God why.' In Israel and Gaza, the scale of death overwhelms the living

They point to some 1,400 arrests (the Israeli army puts the number in the hundreds) and more than 100 Palestinians in the West Bank who have been killed in Israel's dragnet or in increasingly frequent attacks by Jewish settlers  an average of five Palestinians killed per day, rights groups contend, more than five times the average of the last two years.

The widespread rage threatens to boil over into a full-on uprising, one that would engulf Hamas' rival, the Palestinian Authority, which maintains limited administrative control over the West Bank and coordinates with Israel on security matters  an increasingly untenable policy as critics skewer the authority as little more than Israel's bodyguard.

Read more: 'No words for this horror.' Israelis and Palestinians confront a terrifying new reality

"Before Oct. 7, they would enter and walk around, and if they saw us it would usually be OK," one of Ali's friends, 14-year-old Abdul Fattah Issa, said of Israeli soldiers. "Now, they see anything, they shoot. Young, old, it doesn't matter."

Ali was shot as the Israeli military drove through the Tulkarem suburb of Danabah last week en route to an operation in nearby Nour Shams refugee camp.

Thirteen Palestinians  five of them under 18  were killed in or near Nour Shams, according to local authorities, in what Israel said was a counter-terrorism operation that also claimed the life of an Israeli officer. The Israeli military counted 12 Palestinians dead. It said it had no record of killing Ali.

The teen was a constant presence on the streets in Danabah, where in his spare time he barbecued and sold kebab, his friends said.

"He was always there, always smiling," said Walid Mjally, 14.

"Ali was the silliest guy in the neighborhood, a clown, teasing people," said Salim Sarsak, a 20-year-old prosthetics specialist and friend of Mohammad Khazneh who knew Ali for all the boy's life, saw the brothers' older-younger dynamic.

Read more: Hallucinatory anguish and moments of hope: How Israel waits for news of hostages

"I told Mohammad, 'He always used to take your clothes,' " Sarsak said. " 'Now he's taken your grave.' "

"It was a big shock for Mohammad when he was martyred."

Fighters showing the insignia of Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade show up for a funeral procession in the occupied West Bank on Friday for Palestinians killed in an Israeli assault on the Nour Shams refugee camp. Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade is deemed a terrorist organization by the U.S. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

Though he was a nationalist and expected he would be killed working against the occupation, Ali was no militant, his friends and family say, despite the posters extolling his prowess as a hero and a "mujahed." Instead, his killing was on the periphery of the Israeli militarys 27-hour assault on Nour Shams.

Read more: Palestinian Americans stuck in Gaza as all-out Israeli invasion looms

The nearby refugee camp had been on lockdown since late Wednesday night, when border police and soldiers entered to "arrest suspects and eliminate terrorist infrastructure," according to an Israeli military statement. Israeli forces arrested dozens, destroyed explosive-manufacturing facilities and discovered dozens of improvised explosive devices, the Israeli military statement said. It said 10 Israeli police officers were injured Thursday when a militant hurled an IED at them and that one subsequently died.

What happened later that day, like so much in the Israel-Palestinian conflict, is a source of dispute. The Israeli military said one of its aircraft detected and struck "an armed terrorist cell" gathered in one of the camp's upper streets. Press reports have said it was a drone attack. Video released by the Israeli military on Twitter purports to show militants walking down the street with assault rifles; another clip shows one of them shooting, before the video cuts again to the moment when the strike hits.

Residents give a different version of the attack: When they heard a drone, those living on the street, named Manshiyah, quickly hid. But the drone did not fire and disappeared, so residents thought it safe to come out again, they said. Then, four residents insisted, an Apache helicopter appeared overhead and dropped a missile. It drilled some four feet into the asphalt before detonating, killing 10 people, including an 11-year-old and three 15-year-olds, Palestinian health authorities said.

Later that day, sometime before 4 p.m., two Israeli armored vehicles were driving through Danabah. Ali, as usual, was in the street, even though most people were indoors because of the Nour Shams incursion.

Khazneh went to bring his brother home, but Ali refused to go. Instead, he walked to the corner near Danabah cemetery and was standing among the trees as the vehicles passed. Rights groups say a group of young Palestinians was throwing stones at the armored vehicles, but it's unclear if Ali was part of that group. According to his family, he was holding a stone when a soldier inside one of the vehicles shot through a gun port, hitting Ali twice in the chest.

"It was a rock. What could it do to an armored vehicle?" said Dalia, Ali's older sister. "What's a rock in front of bullets?"

"A rock, held by a 15-year-old kid, not even old enough to have an ID."

Mourners carry the bodies of Palestinians killed in an Israeli assault on the Nour Shams refugee camp in the West Bank. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

Grainy video circulated on Tulkarem-based news channels on Telegram, a messaging app, depicts what residents say was the moment Ali was shot. Two vehicles pass by a figure, then one of them stops. A figure near the top of the frame then seems to crumple to the ground. The authenticity of the images could not be independently verified.

Read more: In northern Israel, fears grow of a war that engulfs 'all the Middle East'

At Ali's funeral, Faisal Salameh, an activist leader in Tulkarem, saw the killings as part of a wider Israeli escalation; the strike was an especially rare step, one that harked back to times of heightened violence in the conflict's long history.

"This was a child that they shot," he said, shaking his head with anger. "And in Nour Shams it was an airstrike."

"What's happening here is a mini version of the war in Gaza."

Ali, it would appear, was not counted. In response to questions about his death, the Israeli military told The Times in a statement: "The incident was not known to us."

In a public statement, the military said it had "neutralized at least 12 terrorists" during the Nour Shams operation. But residents living nearby insisted there were no militants present when the missile fell and that those killed were civilians.

Read more: This Israeli couple's son is in enemy hands. They're determined to get him back

"All the fighters left an hour before," said Ahmad abu Talal, 38, who sat talking with some friends in the street down from where the missile had struck. "That's why all those kids and people were out."

"What a useless army," Abu Talal said, his 1-year-old son, Abdullah, on his knee. "Our fighters pushed them out of the camp, so the Israelis brought a warplane. Imagine what will happen to them when they enter Gaza; they'll be pulverized."

Youths navigate around rubble in Nour Shams refugee camp. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times)

At the camp, one building, described by the Israeli military as "a command and control center," has a side sheared off, the road in front of it churned up into a mass of sand and gravel by an Israeli bulldozer. On Manshiyah Street, passersby pause to look at a pair of burned cars marked with spiral-shaped permutations of gray, or to peer inside the narrow, cylindrical crater left by the missile. One person used a broom handle to measure its depth.

Abeer Saaydeh sat in an oval of chairs in the middle of a narrow street, surrounded by neighborhood women, holding a wake for her 15-year-old son, Mujahed, who was among those killed in the explosion.

"The people they killed, they weren't fighters," she said. "They didn't have guns or weapons. My son was just standing there."

Israeli forces wanted revenge after losing one of their own when they entered the camp, she contended. She said it wasn't the first time the army had attacked Nour Shams.

"Now it's intensified," she said, adding that the camp's water and electricity had also been cut off.

"Look at where I have to hold the wake. I'm doing it outside because our home has no power."

Thirteen Palestinians, including five children, were killed in a multiple-day Israeli assault on and near the Nour Shams refugee camp in the West Bank. Israeli soldiers had been injured, with one killed, during a previous raid on the camp. (Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times)

During their raid, Israeli forces demolished part of a building they said belonged to a Hamas militant who had killed Israelis in the past. Within the remains of another demolished home was a martyr photo for Iyad Kanooh, a fighter with the Fatah-linked Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade who was killed in a shootout with Israeli forces around early 2005. He glowers at the camera, clean-shaven face superimposed near a cutout of the Dome of the Rock shrine in Jerusalem's Old City.

The increased violence in the West Bank has alarmed human rights groups and the United Nations, which has warned of a "rapidly deteriorating human rights situation" and an increase in "arbitrary arrests of Palestinians."

The U.N. said some people had been "prevented from reaching hospitals to receive life-saving care." Residents in Nour Shams said a number of the raid's victims were put in a mosque because the military prevented ambulances from reaching them.

In a statement late last week, the U.N. said, "We are extremely alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating human rights situation in the occupied West Bank and the increase in unlawful use of lethal force."

Read more: Israel-Hamas war puts top Democratic Senate candidates' foreign policy differences in the spotlight

The Israeli actions are re-energizing Palestinians' fury as they watch what happens in Gaza.

"They want to kill the resistance here, so they can do what they want with Gaza," said Rahaf, Mujahed's sister.

The sense of a coming showdown pervaded the speeches at Ali's funeral, with calls for setting aside any internal divisions  including the animosity between Gaza-based Hamas and the Fatah party-run Palestinian Authority.

"We today are in the cemetery of the martyrs," Salameh said in his address. "Here hundreds of martyrs hear our voices ... we came today to give our support to Gaza, to Nour Shams, to Palestine and Jerusalem."

Around him were fighters arrayed in the yellow, green and white bands of the various factions, including Hamas, Fatah and Islamic Jihad.

Back near Ali's grave, in the Danabah cemetery not far from where he was killed, his friends seemed resigned to the idea they too could be killed.

"The Israelis want us to hide at home, but we won't do that," said 14-year-old Abdul Rahman Najjar.

Khazneh stirred, and loaded a religious recitation on his smartphone before laying it on the grave.

Mourners transport bodies of Palestinians killed in and near Nour Shams refugee camp for a funeral procession Friday. (Marcus Yam/Los Angeles Times)

"The eyes shed tears and the heart grieves, and we are saddened by your departure, and we only say what pleases our Lord," the recitation said.

"We belong to Allah and to Him we shall return."

A minute later, Khazneh started to get up. Sarsak and others rushed to help him, wrapping their arms around him as they trudged away from the grave.

Standing by Najjar, Walid Mjally, 15, a burly kid with a pompadour of black hair, turned to a visiting reporter and joined the conversation.

"If we're shot, we're martyred. It's our sacrifice for our homeland," he said.

"When that happens, you'll interview my friends and ask them about me."

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.
Angela Rippon has responded to critics who claim that she has only been given slow dances on Strictly Come Dancing.

At 79, the former newsreader is the oldest celebrity to ever compete on the BBC dance series. However, she has wowed the judges and viewers alike with her nimble feet and impressive flexibility, and has maintained a spot at the top end of the leaderboard.

But as the competition gets tighter, some viewers have noted that Rippon has so far predominantly performed slower dances, whether Ballroom dances or more leisurely Latin styles like the Rumba. Rippon and partner Kai Widdrington are yet to dance the faster Latin numbers, such as the Salsa, Samba or the Jive.

Appearing on Good Morning Britain on Thursday (26 October), Rippon was asked about this critique.

Well, we did the Quickstep. I mean, theres a clue in the title, she responded, adding: And we did the very first dance which was the Cha Cha Cha.

It was during that Cha Cha Cha when Rippon shocked Strictly viewers by performing a standing split high kick where her leg stretched all the way up to her head.

Discussing their forthcoming Charleston, Widdrington said that the dance would be fast and fun and would integrate comedy into the routine.

Rippon wowed the judges and viewers with her flexibility in week one (ITV/Good Morning Britain)

Make no mistake, Angela is doing lots of steps to a fast Charleston and shes being very much lifted over my head more than once with another trick in there, he said.

Rippon responded: Also, of course, dance isnt all just about being fast and running around a ballroom. Its about technique, its about precision, and thats what weve done, I think in the last two particularly.

While it may not look as if its very exhausting, to actually get that physical muscular precision when youre doing things like the Rumba, the Argentine Tango, requires a heck of a lot of energy in a different way.

Like many of the stars of Strictly 2023, the Rip-Off Britain host had some dance experience before entering the competition. Rippon, who hosted the BBCs original dance series Come Dancing, trained as a classical ballet dancer until she was 17, and went on in 2000 to be appointed as the chair of the English National Ballet.

Rippon and Widdrington discussed the criticism on Good Morning Britain' (ITV)

This Saturday (28 October) nights episode of Strictly is the series Halloween special, with the contestants performing a series of spooky-themed routines.

Eddie Kadi wont be performing in the competition, having lost last weeks dance-off to Zara McDermott. But the show will be down another contestant, following the departure of Amanda Abbington from the competition this week.

The Sherlock star did not compete in last weeks show and was given a bye through to the next week. However, it was announced on Monday (23 October) that she had withdrawn from the competition, which Abbington later attributed to personal reasons.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday 28 October at 6.40pm on BBC One.
Cebu (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Indigent Cebuanos will soon be able to purchase rice at 20 per kilo in popup stores dubbed Sugbo Merkadong Barato [SMB-Cebu Cheap Market] run by the Cebu Provincial Capitol to be set up around the province.

The initial plan was to sell rice at 25 per kilo but Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia and some local mayors wanted to drop the price further even if the provincial governmen might incur more losses.

"It is a province wide program where it will be Cebu that will be the first to be able to sell NFA (National Food Authority) rice at 20fulfilling the President's promise at 20 per kilo," Garcia said during a meeting with mayors of the component towns and cities of Cebu Province.

The Capitol earmarked 100 million of its local funds for the purchase of NFA rice to be sold at popup markets.

Garcia projected losses of at least 20% but said this can be seen as a form of financial assistance to indigent families amid soaring prices of basic commodities.

The provincial government will initially purchase 10,000 sacks of "NFA Rice" which it will sell to its constituents daily from Monday to Friday, the governor said.

The sacks will be distributed "equitably" depending on the population of marginalized families listed by its local social welfare offices, she added.

Eligible indigent families will be able to purchase five kilos per week. Garcia said QR-codes will be issued to beneficiaries to track their purchases so as not to exceed the limit.

The governor also plans to expand the program to other families not currently eligible for the program by selling cheaper commercial rice at SMB stores. No prices have been announced yet.

Garcia also revealed that the purchase of cheaper commercial rice varieties will be limited to 10 kilos a week per family.

The SMB stores will be opened once the towns and cities finish submitting their list of indigent families eligible to purchase NFA rice.

The stores will also sell fish, vegetables, and other goods at lower prices in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture.
The death of a man after a street disturbance in South Lanarkshire is now being treated as murder.

Stuart McGeachie, 38, was assaulted in Rutherglen's Farmeloan Road on Tuesday evening before making his way to a nearby flat where he died.

Police said they had begun a murder investigation following the results of a post-mortem examination.

Detectives want to speak to a group of youths on bikes or scooters who were in the area on Tuesday.

The inquiry is now being led by Police Scotland's Major Investigation Team.

Mr McGeachie's relatives have been informed of his death, and a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal.

Farmeloan Road in Rutherglen was sealed off after the incident

Det Ch Insp John Morrison said intensive inquiries were under way with officers gathering CCTV footage from the crime area.

"Our thoughts remain with Stuart's family and friends at this very difficult time," he said.

"We have a dedicated team of officers working on this investigation and I would like to reassure the local community that everything is being done to trace those responsible.

"I am appealing to anyone who may have seen a group of youths in dark clothing on bikes or scooters throughout the day on Farmeloan Road and Main Street, to get in touch as they may have vital information about the incident.

"I would also ask the group themselves to come forward as they may have seen or heard something which could help with our enquiries," he added.

He described Mr McGeachie's family as "absolutely devastated" by his death and thanked the public for their assistance so far.

"We will have a continued police presence in the area and I would like to thank the local community for their cooperation," he said.
In the years since the Great Recession, when housing prices dramatically fell, Wall Street investors have been buying large numbers of single-family homes to use as rentals. Critics say this practice drives up home prices and worsens the housing shortage, making it harder for families to afford to buy. Industry advocates dismiss such charges, arguing that large investment firms own a tiny fraction of single-family rental housing across the U.S.  less than 4% of the total.

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Deepfake videos on social media have become weapons of war, undermining trust and fueling conspiracy theories during Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, according to new research from scholars at University College Cork in Ireland.

"For the first time weve seen deepfake propaganda and misinformation that has attempted to influence a war," said the report, led by John Twomey and published in the journal PLOS ONE on Oct. 25.

Deepfakes are videos constructed by artificial intelligence to manipulate viewers into believing events took place that did not actually occur. Although fake, the videos appear convincing and are often produced with the intention to imitate a real person.

Twomey and his colleagues examined over 4,800 posts on X (formerly Twitter) that discussed deepfakes over the first seven months of 2022, using a method known as qualitative analysis.

They found that deepfakes erode viewers' confidence in the authenticity of war-related footage, leading to a loss of trust in all viewed content.

"Unfortunately, the majority of this type of Deepfake discourse during the war consisted of unhealthy skepticism fueled by deepfakes," the study said.

One prominent deepfake deployed in the war was a video that falsely showed President Volodymyr Zelensky surrendering to Russia. Another depicted Russian dictator Vladimir Putin declaring peace. Researchers also mentioned the "Ghost of Kyiv" footage, which claimed to show a Ukrainian fighter pilot but was in fact taken from a video game.

The study cautioned that deepfakes such as these undermine trust in legitimate videos, with viewers more frequently mislabeling authentic media as deepfakes.

While deepfakes represent a new form of media, misinformation has long been a weapon in Russia's war against Ukraine.

Read also: David Kirichenko: The continued menace of Russian disinformation

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The RSF has been accused of targeting non-Arab groups in Darfur

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has seized control of Sudan's second largest city, Nyala, from the army after months of fighting, several sources have told the BBC.

One eyewitness said residents were celebrating because they hoped it meant an end to the violence.

The fighting has forced more than 670,000 people to flee their homes.

The city's hospitals have been destroyed, and bodies are said to be lining the streets.

This major advance for the RSF comes as the two warring sides were set to resume peace talks in Saudi Arabia.

The army has not commented on its defeat in Nyala.

Nyala, capital of South Darfur state, is a strategic city connecting Sudan with Central African Republic (CAR).

The RSF originated in Darfur and has been accused of atrocities against non-Arabic groups in the region during this year's conflict.

High-ranking army generals, including the head of the military in Nyala, were killed in battle a few weeks ago.

RSF's second-in-command Abdulrahim Daglo, who was sanctioned by the US for his alleged role in ethnic cleansing in West Darfur, led the capture of Nyala.

Eyewitnesses have reported that RSF fighters have been looting and storming civilian houses since they seized the city.

EMERGENCY, a medical organisation that provides treatment to victims of war, says its Sudanese staff members were taken from a paediatric centre in Nyala and arrested by the RSF.

In June the RSF captured Um-Dafog, a small town on the border with CAR which is believed to be a key area for their supply chain.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been accused of supplying weapons to the RSF through CAR and Chad's Um-Dafog. It has denied the accusations.

More on Sudan's conflict:
Troops loyal to Sudan's army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan (L) have been battling paramilitaries commanded by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo since April (ASHRAF SHAZLY)

Sudan's warring parties resumed talks in Saudi Arabia on Thursday aimed at ending a conflict that has raged for over six months and left thousands dead, the Saudi foreign ministry said.

Since April, the war between regular forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), commanded by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has killed more than 9,000 people and displaced over 5.6 million.

"The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the resumption of talks between representatives of the Sudanese Armed Forces and representatives of the Rapid Support Forces in the city of Jeddah," a statement said.

Both sides announced Wednesday they had accepted an invitation to resume US- and Saudi-brokered negotiations in Jeddah.

Previous mediation attempts have yielded only brief truces, and even those were systematically violated.

The latest talks are being held "in partnership" with a representative of the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African regional bloc led by close US partner Kenya, the Saudi statement said.

The statement called on negotiators to abide by an earlier agreement announced on May 11 to protect civilians and a short-term ceasefire deal signed on May 20.

"The kingdom affirms its keenness on unity of ranks... to stop the bloodshed and alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people," the statement said.

Riyadh hopes for "a political agreement under which security, stability and prosperity will be achieved for Sudan and its brotherly people".

- Fighting 'not done' -

Before the first round of talks in Jeddah were suspended, mediators had grown increasingly frustrated with both sides' reluctance to work towards a sustained truce.

Analysts believed that Burhan and Daglo had opted for a war of attrition instead, hoping to extract greater concessions at the negotiating table later.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who helped mediate at the start of the crisis, finalised details of the new talks during a recent stop in Saudi Arabia as part of a tour largely devoted to the Israel-Hamas war, US officials said this week.

The talks will aim for a ceasefire but it is premature to discuss a lasting political solution, the officials said.

"The new round will focus on ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and achieving ceasefires and other confidence-building measures," a State Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Alan Boswell, Horn of Africa project director for International Crisis Group, said it had "taken far too long" to get talks going again.

"Now we need to see a much higher level of diplomacy within the region if we want to see a serious push for a ceasefire," he said.

"My concern is that the talks will continue to flail about unsuccessfully on humanitarian issues before collapsing again."

There is little reason to be optimistic, said Kholood Khair, founder of the Khartoum-based think tank Confluence Advisory.

The decision to revive talks is based on the assumption that the army and the RSF "are done fighting due to the impending state collapse, suffering and misery," she said on X, formerly Twitter.

"They are not yet done. Despite rhetoric by (the army) and RSF, neither care about the human costs of waging this war."

As talks resumed on Thursday, witnesses again reported fighting in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur state.

The RSF meanwhile announced that its fighters had seized "complete control" of army positions in Nyala, the capital of South Darfur and Sudan's second most populous city.

rcb/kir
This is a locator map for Sudan with its capital, Khartoum. (AP Photo) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

CAIRO (AP)  The Sudanese army and its rival paramilitary force resumed peace talks Thursday in a new push to end the nearly seven-month conflict between Sudans warring factions, Saudi Arabia said.

The revived talks between representatives from the Sudanese army, led by Abdel-Fattah Burhan, and the Rapid Support Force paramilitary, commanded by Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, are underway in the Saudi coastal city of Jeddah, the kingdom's foreign ministry said in a statement. The talks are being brokered by both Riyadh and Washington, the statement said.

The RSF and the army both confirmed on Wednesday that they would participate in the talks.

Sudan was plunged into chaos in mid-April, when simmering tensions between the military and the RSF exploded into open warfare in the capital, Khartoum, and other areas across the east African nation.

The conflict has reduced the capital, Khartoum, and other urban areas into battlefields, wrecking the country's already dilapidated infrastructure.

The previous peace talks were held in Jeddah earlier this year but broke down in late June. Washington and Riyadh accused both sides of failing to abide by cease-fire deals they had agreed to. Since April there have been at least 9 temporary cease-fire deals and all have foundered.

In its statement, the Saudi foreign ministry said it hoped the fresh negotiations will lead to another cease-fire agreement and also a political agreement that will return security, stability and prosperity for Sudan and its people.

More than 9,000 people have been killed in the conflict, according to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data project, which tracks Sudans war.

The fighting has driven over 4.5 million people to flee their homes to other places inside Sudan and more than 1.2 million to seek refuge in neighboring countries, the U.N. migration agency says.
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Robert Davis, the 19-year-old suspect wanted for the murder of Philadelphia journalist and activist Josh Kruger, was arrested on Wednesday night, police said.

The arrest comes roughly three weeks after police issued an arrest warrant for Davis. The charges included murder and other related offenses.

It's unclear where or how Davis was taken into police custody.

Kruger was shot inside his Point Breeze home on the 2300 block of Watkins Street earlier in October. The 39-year-old was struck seven times and pronounced dead after he was taken to the hospital, police said.

Investigators believe Kruger and Davis were acquaintances and said he was trying to help the 19-year-old. Police said Davis was known to the Philadelphia Police Department but they wouldn't specify.

RELATED: Vigil held for murdered Philadelphia journalist Josh Kruger

Davis' last known address was just a five-minute walk away from Kruger's home. Police said they have a video showing Davis in the area of the shooting.

Earlier in October, police didn't say what led to the deadly incident.

Kruger wrote for outlets like The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Weekly, Philadelphia City Paper and other publications. He overcame homelessness and addiction to work for five years in city government. He handled Mayor Jim Kenney's social media and served as he communications director for the city's Office of Homeless Services.

Kenney said after his death that he was "shocked and saddened."

The DA's LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee said Kruger never stopped fighting for Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ community.

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

A Quiet Invasion | Sunday on 60 Minutes

The Air We Breathe | Sunday on 60 Minutes
A man suspected in the fatal shooting of a Maryland judge has been found dead, officials announced Thursday.

The suspect, Pedro Argote, shot and killed Washington County Circuit Judge Andrew Wilkinson on October 19, hours after the judge ruled against him in a child custody case, authorities said.

Argotes body was found in a heavily wooded area about a mile from where his vehicle was found on Saturday, the Washington County Sheriffs Office posted on Facebook Thursday.

On October 26, 2023, at approximately 11:00 AM, during an expanded evidentiary search in the Williamsport, MD area, a deceased person was located, the sheriffs office wrote. The deceased individual has been positively identified as Pedro Argote, the suspect wanted for the murder of Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson.

A news conference is scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday.

Wilkinson, a county circuit court judge, was in his own driveway  with his wife and son at home  when he was shot, Albert said.

Wilkinsons death spurred a wave of heightened security for judges throughout the county. Out of precautionary reasons, last night troopers were deployed to protect judges residing in Washington County, Maryland State Police said Friday.

The court where Wilkinson worked employed a high-level of security, and all judges and court personnel received increased security following Wilkinsons death, Circuit Court Administrative Judge Brett Wilson told CNN.

Wilkinsons killing marks the latest in a series of threats and attacks against judges or their families. More than 1,300 threats or possible threats among federal court personnel were investigated in fiscal year 2022, according to the US Marshals Service.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The man accused of executing Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson after a contentious divorce hearing last week was found dead just a mile from where his car had been found abandoned, the Washington County Sheriff's Office announced Thursday.

The Washington County community can breathe a little easier this afternoon, Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert during a press conference Thursday.

Pedro Argotes remains are headed to a medical examiner for an autopsy, Albert said. He declined to comment on the cause of death or whether Argote was found with a firearm.

Wilkinsons family expressed relief at the news, Albert said, adding that it brought some closure to them.

Argote had lost custody of his kids just hours before he allegedly showed up at Wilkinsons home on Oct. 19 and shot the beloved judge dead in the driveway.

In the custody hearing earlier that day, Wilkinson had characterized Argotes treatment of his family as shocking. He controlled every aspect of his familys life, surveilling them with in-house cameras and beating them, according to testimony reviewed by the Associated Press.

Argotes ex-wife testified that he would stuff a towel into their crying babys mouth, and that he carried a gun as he constantly surveilled her. His oldest daughter made similar claims, saying Argote was watching my every move through cameras. The women said Argote was abusive, beating them with whatever [object] he had close by.

Wilkinson called Argote abusive in multiple ways and ordered he have no contact with his kids and ex-wife, in addition to giving the ex-wife sole possession of the family home and use of Argotes Mercedes for necessary medical appointments and shopping trips.

Argote fled after the alleged murder, prompting a week-long manhunt. His car was found abandoned last week, prompting a search in the area that eventually led to the discovery of his body in a heavily wooded area north of where the car was found.

with additional reporting by Josh Fiallo

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Stay informed and gain unlimited access to the Daily Beast's unmatched reporting. Subscribe now.
BALTIMORE -- The man suspected of fatally shooting Maryland Circuit Court judge Andrew Wilkinson outside his Hagerstown home has been found dead, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Department.

Police said that around 11:00 a.m. Thursday, that they located a deceased person, who they positively identified as Pedro Argote during a search in the Williamsport, Maryland area.

Officials said Argote's body was found in a wooded area between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road, about a mile northwest of where his vehicle was found last week.

Wilkinson, 52, was found shot on his driveway on Olde Waterford Road on October 19 around 8 p.m., the Washington County Sheriff's office said. He was taken to Meritus Medical Center, where he died.

Wilkinson presided over Argote's divorce case, according to court records.

The Maryland Judiciary issued a statement after Argote's body was found.

"The Maryland Judiciary appreciates the combined efforts of the local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies who have been working tirelessly to protect Judiciary personnel and to bring a conclusion to the search for the suspect in the shooting of Judge Andrew Wilkinson. We continue to grieve the loss of our colleague and friend while supporting the Wilkinson family, the judges and staff of the Circuit Court for Washington County, and the entire Hagerstown and broader Washington County community." -The Maryland Judiciary

The Washington County Sheriff's Office made comments at a press confernece Thursday afternoon.

"The Washington county community can breathe a little easier this afternoon. murder suspect Pedro Argote was located deceased. this morning Maryland state police, along with other resources were conducting a expanded, systematic searches, and in a heavily wooded area between clear Spring Road and bottom Road," Sheriff Brian Albert said.

While authorities have not confirmed how Argote died, Albert said the department is having conversations on how to better protect other judges from violence.

Related Coverage:

Maryland judge shot to death at Hagerstown home; suspect's SUV foundSuspect in Maryland judge's murder has ties to several states, investigators sayFamily of Maryland judge thanks community for support after murder of 'amazing person'

Search underway for Maine mass shootings person of interest, police say

Lewiston the latest U.S. city devastated by a mass shooting

Man suspected of fatally shooting Maryland judge found dead
(CNN)  A furious diplomatic spat between Israel and the United Nations has broken out, with Israeli officials calling for the resignation of Secretary General Antonio Guterres after he said Hamas October 7 attacks on the country did not happen in a vacuum.

At a Security Council meeting, Guterres called for a humanitarian ceasefire on Tuesday amid the deepening crisis in Gaza, and told the Security Council that clear violations of international humanitarian law are being witnessed.

He called Hamas October 7 murder and kidnap rampage appalling, and said nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians, or the launching of rockets against civilian targets.

It is important to also recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum, Guterres said. The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. They have seen their land steadily devoured by settlements and plagued by violence; their economy stifled; their people displaced and their homes demolished.

But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Excellencies, even war has rules, he added.

His comments angered Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen, who was in the chamber as Guterres spoke. In what world do you live? said Cohen. Definitely, this is not our world.

Writing on social media later, Cohen said that after the October 7th massacre, there is no place for a balanced approach. Hamas must be erased off the face of the planet!

Israels ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, called on Guterres to resign, saying he had expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder.

Then, on Wednesday, Erdan said his country will block visas for United Nations officials. It had already rejected an application by the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, Erdan told the Israeli Army Radio channel.

Its time we teach them a lesson, added Erdan.

The deepening spat exposes tensions around the calls from some international observers for a ceasefire, amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In an effort to set the record straight, Guterres said Wednesday he was shocked by misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council  as if I was was justifying acts of terror by Hamas.

This is false. It was the opposite, he told reporters, restating his condemnation of the October 7 attacks.

But Guterres did not back away from his Tuesday call for a ceasefire, or from his nod towards the historical treatment of Palestinians.

Erdan responded to Guterres comments later Wednesday, doubling down on his earlier criticism of the Secretary General. Erdan called it a disgrace that Guterres did not retract or apologize for his comments.

A Secretary-General who does not understand that the murder of innocents can never be understood by any background cannot be Secretary-General, Erdan wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The main United Nations agency working in Gaza said it would be forced to halt its operations by Wednesday evening due to a lack of fuel, with the territory having faced days of airstrikes and near-total blockade following the Hamas attacks.

Efforts in the UN to endorse a ceasefire have so far been scuppered, with the US vetoing a draft resolution raised by Brazil last week.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday told the agency that humanitarian pauses must be considered to allow aid to reach civilians in Gaza, though he notably avoided the phrase ceasefire. On Monday, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby rebutted calls for a ceasefire, telling CNN that Hamas must first release hostages held in Gaza.

Nearly three weeks since the outbreak of fighting, the UNs Security Council remains divided on how to proceed with the crisis.

Two differing resolutions on the matter, introduced by the US and Russia, both failed to pass on Wednesday.

The draft resolution from the US called for humanitarian pauses, not a ceasefire, to allow for aid to reach Gazan civilians. The US previously vetoed a Brazilian draft calling for a humanitarian pause.

But Russia and China vetoed the US resolution  a move US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield described as deeply disappointing.

Following her comments, Chinas UN Ambassador Zhang Jun said what we oppose is that the draft text does not call on the parties concerned to stop the indiscriminate and asymmetrical use of force.

The Russian resolution proposed Wednesday also failed to gain the Councils approval.

The Israeli government has said there are more than 200 hostages being held in Gaza by Hamas and Islamic Jihad. In an update posted Wednesday, it said 135 of the hostages hold foreign passports from 25 countries. Thailand, with 54, had the most nationals held of any country, followed by Argentina with 15 nationals, then Germany and the US with 12 each.

The World Health Organization meanwhile reiterated calls on Tuesday for a ceasefire, saying it is unable to distribute fuel and essential, life-saving health supplies to major hospitals in northern Gaza due to lack of security guarantees. Six hospitals in Gaza have been forced to shut due to a lack of fuel, WHO added.

This story was first published on CNN.com, ' Israel-UN spat intensifies after Secretary General says Hamas attacks did not happen in a vacuum
An Allegany County grand jury has indicted the four men accused of assaulting and seriously injuring an Alfred State College student earlier this month with attempted murder.

An indictment returned Wednesday charges four suspects  all from Elmira  with second-degree attempted murder and first-degree gang assault in connection to the incident Oct. 15 on the college campus.

Indicted by the grand jury were:

Eric R. Plante, 19.

Jayson E. Lewis, 20.

William J. Blye, 20.

Moses N. Scharborough, 19.

Derek Correa, a first-year college student and 2023 graduate of Bradford (Pa.) Area High School, sustained severe head injuries in the early morning attack on campus, Alfred State officials said.

Derek Correa

Alfred State President Dr. Steven Mauro said Saturday that Correa is hospitalized, in a coma and "fighting for his life."

Mauro called the incident a "senseless act of violence.

College officials could provide no further information on Correa's condition Wednesday. Alfred State referred people to a GoFundMe drive to support Correa's family for updated medical news, although there have been no new posts this week.

More charges filed by Alfred police as witnesses come forward

Alfred State College University Police arrested the suspects after responding to the incident at about 1 a.m., charging each initially with first-degree gang assault.

The men have made at least one appearance in Alfred Village Court and remain in custody at the Allegany County jail, law enforcement officials said.

Meanwhile, the Alfred Village Police Department has filed additional charges against the suspects and arrest warrants are being readied, according to Chief Paul Griffith.

"We are going to be arresting these guys in the near future and they will be arraigned here in court at some point," Griffith said.

Fallen officer: Memorial to Hornell Police Sgt. Daniel J. Swift will spotlight Maple City hero

The village charges, which Griffith indicated will likely be misdemeanor counts, are in connection with previous violent encounters the suspects allegedly had in Alfred during the hours and days leading up to Oct. 15.

Griffith said the charges are based on witnesses who have come forward and online video reviewed by police.

They have definitely been coming to Alfred and picking fights with people for awhile," Griffith alleged.

Follow Neal Simon on Twitter @HornellTribNeal. To get unlimited access to the latest news, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.

This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Elmira men indicted for attempted murder in assault of Alfred student
FILE - A police tape cordons off an area outside a house where Swedish Security Service allegedly arrested two people on suspicion of espionage in a predawn operation in Stockholm, Nov. 22, 2022. Russian-born Swedish businessman Sergey Skvortsov was acquitted on Thursday Oct. 26, 2023, of collecting information for Russia's military intelligence service, the GRU, for almost a decade. (Fredrik Sandberg/TT News Agency via AP, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

STOCKHOLM (AP)  A Russian-born Swedish businessman was acquitted on Thursday of collecting information for Russia's military intelligence service, the GRU, for almost a decade.

Sergey Skvortsov, 60, had been accused of  gross illegal intelligence activities against Sweden and against a foreign power, namely the United States.

The Stockholm District Court said Skvortsov had largely acted in the way prosecutors alleged and that advanced technology was acquired and delivered to Russia.

But the court said in its verdict that the business (was) only intended for the procurement of technology from the West and not aimed at obtaining information concerning Sweden or the United States that may constitute espionage.

Judge Jakob Hedenmo said in a statement that the prosecutor was unable to prove that Skvortsov was involved in espionage.

Skvortsov's lawyer, Ulrika Borg, said her client was relieved.

He has been detained for a very long time. It is stressful for anyone, she said.

Skvortsov was arrested in November together with his wife in a predawn operation in Nacka, outside Stockholm. Swedish media reported that elite police rappelled from two Black Hawk helicopters to arrest the couple.

On Oct. 9, the Stockholm District Court said that Skvortsov was released ahead of a verdict in his trial, which ended Sept. 28, saying there is no longer reason to keep the defendant in custody.

Skvortsov had denied any wrongdoing, His wife was released without charge following an investigation by Swedens security agency.

According to the prosecutor, Skvortsov had obtained information via two companies about items that Russia cannot otherwise acquire due to export regulations and sanctions.

He then helped to buy and transport the goods, misleading suppliers by providing false or misleading information and acting under false identities.
TAMPA, Fla. - A Tampa man found guilty of beating his girlfriend's 17-month-old child to death received two consecutive life sentences on Wednesday.

During the hearing Wednesday afternoon, the childs mother Shirley Hunter thanked prosecutors and investigators for their work on the case against Enrico Adams, but was too broken up to say more. Hunter walked away from the witness stand in tears.

A Tampa jury will now determine how Enrico Adam's trial ends.

A few minutes later, Hunter composed herself and headed back to hear from Tampa Judge Michelle Sisco.

READ: Tampa man accused of beating 1-year-old to death heads to trial

"You have experienced the worst thing that could happen to any human being and that is losing a child in particularly at the hands of another," explained Sisco.

Hunter sobbed during the exchange.

Later, The childs great-grandmother, who was not identified in court records, had a few choice words for Adams.

"Why would you hurt my grand baby like this? I had nightmares about what you did and how you treated him. If I could do to you, what you did to my grand baby I would do it, with no remorse and accept the penalty," she yelled.

READ: Ex-girlfriend testifies against Tampa man accused of beating baby to death

The child was left alone with Enrico which is when prosecutors say he beat the one-year-old.

Adams was charged with first-degree murder and aggravated child abuse in the death of a child whose mother was his girlfriend at the time in 2019.

On November 30, 2019, Adams had been dating Hunter for four months, and after heading to a laundromat, she left her 1-year-old child with him. When she returned a couple of hours later to her home at the Silver Oaks apartments in Tampa, the baby was already asleep in his crib.

However, the next morning, the child was cold and unresponsive. The child died of blunt force trauma to his abdomen and internal organs. Adams denied hurting the baby.

In June a jury deadlocked during Adams first trial, but a new jury convicted him in September of the murder of 17-month-old JaMarcus Howard.

When Judge Sisco sentenced Adams to two consecutive life sentences without parole, Adams showed no emotion or reaction to his punishment.
They say her ghost haunts the Nueces River, near the spot of her execution by hanging for the murder of a horse trader for $600 in gold.

Chipita Rodriguez holds the unfortunate distinction of being the second woman legally executed in the state of Texas. Josefa Rodriguez, known as Chipita, was sentenced to death in 1863 for the murder of horse trader John Savage.

Not much can be confirmed about Chipitas life and the circumstances around her trial, pieced together through the scant newspaper and court records still available and mostly from old stories  whether those are true or not is anyones guess.

Researchers believe she was the daughter of Pedro Rodriguez, who moved to the settlement of San Patricio de Hibernia when Chipita was young. As an adult she sold meals to travelers, who could also rent a cot on her jacals porch or sleep in her yard by the Nueces River, though some accounts say it was near the Aransas River.

LEFT: The Texas Historical Marker for Chipita Rodriguez in San Patricio, Texas sits at the intersection of Farm to Market Road 666 and McGloin Street. RIGHT: Judge Benjamin F. Neal ruled Chipita Rodriguez guilty and sentenced her to death by hanging in November 1863.

But the event that led to her death began in August 1863. Horse trader John Savage, traveling to Brownsville along the Cotton Road, arranged to stay the night. He disappeared in the night and his body was later found wrapped in burlap sacks in the river, with an ax wound in his head. Authorities assumed the motive was burglary, as he was carrying $600 in gold, but saddlebags with the money were soon recovered near the river.

Sheriff William Means soon arrived and arrested both Chipita and her handyman, Juan Silvera, who was rumored to be her illegitimate son. Sheriff Means served on the grand jury that indicted her, the first in a number of irregularities. There was no empaneling of a jury, they were literally rounded up and included four men previously convicted of felonies  one of those for murder.

Her trial was overseen by 14th District Court Judge Benjamin F. Neal, who was also Corpus Christis first mayor in 1852. Chipita had no defense counsel and offered no testimony for her defense, only stating, No soy culpable  I am not guilty.

More: #THROWBACK: Did La Lechuza terrorize Robstown in 1975?

The jury found her guilty, but suggested leniency based on the flimsy evidence and her age. She was likely in her 60s at the time. Neal ignored the pleas, and on Nov. 13, 1863, he sentenced her to hang. She was kept in Meansville, near present day Odem, until her execution. Sheriff Means was out of town that day, so hangman John Gilpin took Chipita by wagon to the hanging tree. Legend has it she smoked corn shuck cigarettes on her journey there. Chipita Rodriguez was then executed by hanging

The stories began immediately, that her body moaned as it sat in the coffin, before burial in an unmarked grave. Her death passed from local tragedy and to a legend of injustice as the years grew. Shes had poems, articles, books, and even two operas written about her. In 1985, state Sen. Carlos Truan of Corpus Christi asked the Texas Legislature to formally clear her name, and Gov. Mark White signed the resolution absolving her of the crime on June 13, 1985.

But still you hear stories, that someone heard her ghostly moans, or saw her wandering the banks of the river, with the noose trailing behind her.

Allison Ehrlich writes about things to do in South Texas and has a weekly Throwback Thursday column on local history.

Support local coverage like this by checking out our subscription options and special offers at Caller.com/subscribe.

This article originally appeared on Corpus Christi Caller Times: Chipita Rodriguez became ghostly legend after her unjust execution
A special education teacher in Missouri has been charged with bombarding a 16-year-old boy with explicit videos and inviting him to her home for a sex session when her husband was away.

Rikki Lyn Laughlin, 25, allegedly began preying on the student through Snapchat, sending him nude photos and video of her pleasuring herself with a dildo.

According to a statement of probable cause, the teen told police things progressed very fast and they even kissed in the classroom at St. James High School.

[He] informed me that during his conversations with Laughlin, she stated she wanted to have sexual intercourse with him; going so far as to invite [him] to her house on 10/14/2023 because her husband was not home, a detective for the Maries County Sheriffs Office wrote.

The boy said that he made several excuses to get out of the proposed rendezvous but did send Laughlin photos of his genitals at her request, according to the statement.

[He] did tell me that one of the conversations he and Laughlin had was Laughlin telling him she could get jail time for what she was doing, the detective wrote.

However, when the detective questioned Laughlin, she allegedly denied the allegations and then told him, I was not aware he was a minor until yesterday.

The married mom of a toddler was charged with promoting obscenity in the first degree, furnishing pornographic material to a minor, attempted statutory rape in the second degree, tampering with a witness, possession of child pornography, and tampering with physical evidence.

School District Superintendent Tim Webster said Laughlin, who was teaching juniors at the high school, was placed on leave after her arrest.

The District takes these matters seriously and reported allegations to appropriate outside agencies, including law enforcement, he said in statement to KSDK. We have been actively cooperating with these agencies since the initial report.

Our top priority remains the safety and well-being of our students, and we do not tolerate any policy or law violations within our educational community.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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There are new developments after a News Center 7 I-Team investigation into prices on the shelf not matching what you actually pay when you check out at Dollar General stores.

Ohios Attorney General Dave Yost sued the company in November 2022 and we now have new details on the legal settlement that is very good for customers and impacts all 780 Dollar General stores in Ohio.

>> PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Attorney General sues Dollar General over alleged deceptive pricing

Under the settlement, stores must:

Disputed prices must default to the shelf tag price

Price differences that are uncovered must be fixed in 24 hours

Provide sufficient coverage for employees to update shelf tags and maintain records of updated shelf tags each week at each store

In addition to the customer requirements, Dollar General is paying Yosts office $1 million. $750,000 will go to charities like food banks, while the rest will pay the investigative costs of the case.

We sent a News Center 7 photographer into one local store Thursday to buy five items. We then compare the prices he snapped on the shelf with the prices on the receipt he was given. The prices did match.

>> RELATED: I-TEAM: Area Dollar General stores continue to fail inspections amid price swapping accusations

The I-Teams Mike Campbell reached out to Dollar General Thursday for comment, but they have not replied.

The companys lawyers wrote in the lawsuit settlement that this is not an admission of liability and shall not be construed as an admission of any fault or wrongdoing.
The Asia Internet Coalition, a powerful industry group that represents Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft and many other tech companies, has requested India's IT Ministry for an extended deadline to comply with certain provisions of a newly approved data protection regulation governing user data processing.

In a Thursday letter to India's IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Deputy IT Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar , the Asia Internet Coalition recommended an 18-month compliance period for a provision in the new data protection law that requires data fiduciaries to halt processing and delete user data, and obliges tech firms to renegotiate contracts with data processors.

"This exercise will be fairly new to domestic and international business entities alike, since compliance with data laws of other jurisdictions like GDPR do not have such provisions. Hence, businesses would require fundamental changes in the technology architecture of their platform," the coalition wrote.

India's Digital Personal Data Protection Act ranks among the world's most stringent regulations on technology firms, curbing international data transfers and levying fines for violations. New Delhi contends that the modernized rules are essential for safeguarding its citizens' data and instigating a "fundamental behavior change" in organizations that collect and utilize personal data.

For many tech giants, including Meta and Google, India represents their largest user base. India's digital economy should grow to approximately $1 trillion by 2030, according to projections by Google, Temasek and Bain.

The Asia Internet Coalition has also proposed a 12-month window for companies to adhere to a new provision requiring data fiduciaries to issue a notice when, or before, seeking consent for personal data processing.

Implementing the notice system, which must be available in 22 Indian languages, would necessitate "structural changes" within organizations. They anticipate facing "significant" challenges during this transitional period, the industry group said.

The new legislation introduces various novel concepts such as consent managers and grants Data Principals the rights to modify, delete or access their personal information. The industry group indicated that a 12-month time frame would be necessary to comply with these stipulations, as some require creating new frameworks and tools.

"We request MEITY to coordinate harmonization of all the above timelines to provide seamless transition experience to Data Principals, Data Fiduciaries and Data Processors alike. This synchronization becomes even more significant when there are provisions for relaxed timelines for certain classes of Data Fiduciaries such as startups etc," the industry body wrote.
A teen was arrested Tuesday in connection to a shooting that occurred outside a Burlington apartment complex last week.

A 16-year-old male is charged in Middlesex County with armed assault to murder, attempted assault and battery with a firearm, and discharge of a firearm within 500 feet of a building.

On October 17, officers were called to the Avalon Burlington apartment complex on Arboretum Way at 8:39 p.m. after a car crashed near building No. 5.

Immediately after, dispatchers received a call about shots fired in the same area.

Officials found a victim who claimed he had arranged a meeting with the teen suspect. The suspect then reportedly shot at the victim during the encounter but didnt hit him.

A description of the suspect was provided and police learned the alleged shooter was wearing a GPS monitoring device.

On October 24, authorities say they found the 16-year-old suspect in Boston in the backseat of a car. He allegedly was carrying a loaded gun, a large amount of money, and marijuana.

In addition to the charges hes facing in Middlesex County, he will also be charged in Suffolk County with carrying a loaded firearm, possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition without an FID card, possession of a large capacity feeding device and possession with intent to distribute a class D substance.

In early August, multiple units in the same apartment complex sustained ballistic damage after a shootout.

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




Eleven guns  including automatic weapons  were found stashed in food wrappers, board game boxes and walls after an alleged 17-year-old credit card thief was captured during a boozy birthday bash at an "Airbnb turned Machinegunbnb," police said.

Credit cards that were reported stolen from a resident of Shoreview, Minnesota, led to the suspect at the Airbnb, where police said they were "shocked" by the number of guns found. Police are investigating who is responsible for the guns being stashed there.

The investigation began Friday after a man told police he saw someone get into his work truck and steal his wallet, the Pioneer Press reported. The man told police that he'd received notifications of charges to his stolen credit cards less than an hour later  all at a Target in Shoreview  between 11:40 a.m. and 12:15 p.m.

His bank card was now short $577, and additional transactions totaling $275 were attempted on other cards in the wallet. The Target purchase led to the suspect, Ramsey County Undersheriff Mike Martin's office said in a Facebook post.

FEDS CHARGE 4 IN $21M CATALYTIC CONVERTER THEFT RING

A total of 11 guns  many of them transformed into automatic weapons with "switches"  were recovered from a booze-drenched Airbnb birthday bash for a 17-year-old alleged credit card thief in Minnesota, police said.

Surveillance footage compared to surveillance photos from a stolen credit card case out of Lino Lakes showed that the two cases were connected, per the local outlet.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Law enforcement disseminated the photos, and members of the sheriff's office Carjacking and Auto Theft Team reportedly recognized the pictured suspect.

The next day they tracked him to a "booze-filled" party at an Airbnb on 108th Avenue in the Maple Grove area and contacted the owner, the Pioneer Press reported.

After police apprised him of the situation, the owner reportedly asked police to shut the festivities down  the rental agreement's 10-person limit had been exceeded, Martin wrote, and rules against weapons and smoking at the rental were apparently broken.

MASKED THIEVES PROWLING STREETS NEAR SEATTLE SCHOOLS TO MUG STUDENTS: POLICE

One of 11 guns was found in a Heads Up! card game box on Saturday, per the Ramsey County Undersheriff's Office.

The attendees had also "been posting pictures on social media and smoking," Martin said.

More than 50 attendees between the ages of 15 and 21 were ushered out of the residence  the person who rented the house wasn't present, police said, and it is unclear whether that person was the credit card thief.

As they left, attendees were searched for weapons and asked to leave them in the house if they did, according to the local outlet  it is unclear whether any of the party-goers were carrying.

POISON CONTROL DOCTOR TRIED TO CREMATE WIFE AFTER GOUT MEDICINE MURDER: POLICE

Police arrested their suspected credit card thief and deputies then began to search the house. There, they found a trove of weapons in what Martin called an "Airbnb turned Machinegunbnb."

Some guns were found in purses and backpacks. One was found in a "Heads Up!" game box, and another was stashed in an empty McDonald's bag on the kitchen counter.

MAN ACCUSED OF STEALING 'WIZARD OF OZ' RUBY SLIPPERS FROM MINNESOTA MUSEUM TO PLEAD GUILTY

Another weapon can be seen in a purse after police dispersed the 50-person party on 108th Avenue.

Even more were recovered in unfinished walls, plants and furnaces, and behind TVs and furniture, Martin wrote.

In total, 11 guns were found  several had extended magazines and "switches," also known as "auto sears," that converted them into machine guns "capable of firing 33 rounds of automatic fire in less than two seconds," per the release.

FIVE MINNESOTA OFFICERS SHOT WHILE SERVING WARRANT, SUSPECT IN CUSTODY

A modified handgun recovered by Ramsey County Sheriff's deputies on Saturday, can be seen here; Undersheriff Mike Martin said the "best part is we got 11 guns off the street that wont shoot somebody, kill somebody you know or be used for robbery or anything else."

Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher said the number of guns was astounding  deputies "always expect a couple, but we were shocked by the number."

"This is especially concerning because several of the party attendees are part of a 'group' that has enemies  or as they call them, 'opps,'" Martin wrote.

MINNESOTA PASTOR'S VIRAL POST ABOUT PEOPLE DRINKING COFFEE IN CHURCH IGNITES FIERY DEBATE

Guns were found in plants, in unfinished walls and behind furniture in the Airbnb without the owner's knowledge, police said.

The undersheriff noted that state and federal law provide for 5- to 10-year sentences for automatic weapon possession  it is unclear whether minors involved would be tried as adults, or whether any remain in police custody.

But, per another post from the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office, the alleged credit card thief "went from five-star Airbnb accommodations to the county jail."

MINNEAPOLIS POLICE OFFICER'S ONLYFANS ACCOUNT PROMPTS INVESTIGATION BUT MAYOR HAS 'NO ISSUE' WITH NUDE PHOTOS

The Ramsey County Undersheriff's Office could not be reached for comment at press time.

Now, police will test-fire the weapons, enter the resulting data into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network to determine if they have been used in unsolved crimes, and searched for fingerprints and DNA.

"The best part is we got 11 guns off the street that wont shoot somebody, kill somebody you know, or be used for robbery or anything else," Martin told Law & Crime.

Martin wished the alleged credit card thief a happy birthday, per Law & Crime, and said he was "glad we could share it with [them.]"





Original article source: Teenage thief found at Airbnb turned Machinegunbnb with guns stashed in walls, around house: police
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Three teens are facing murder charges in the death of a Colorado woman who was gunned down in a drive-by shooting in a south Las Vegas neighborhood while walking dogs.

The teens are identified by police as Johnathan Perez-Stubbs, 19; Kevin Perez-Stubbs, 16; and Mezarius Finch, 17. The two younger teens are certified as adults in the court system due to the seriousness of the charges.

The arrest report states the shooting, which happened around 9 p.m. on April 23, 2023, followed an earlier fight that occurred between two teens at a nearby apartment complex where several teens had gathered. One teen accused another of stealing his ghost Polymer 80 slide gun. That gun would later be found by police near the apartment building and matched to 43-year-old Shawna McCowans shooting.

Johnathan Stubbs (19), Kevin Stubbs (16) and Mezarius Finch are all facing murder charges in the death of a Colorado woman. (Credit: LVMPD)

Police documents indicate McCowan was an innocent bystander who happened to be walking on the same sidewalk as two teens who were targeted in a drive-by shooting by a car full of teens, including one passenger who leaned out of his window and shot across the roof of the vehicle into the direction of the two walking teens and McCowan. She collapsed in a homes front yard in the 3400 block of Bella Lante Avenue, off of Valley View Boulevard and Polaris Avenue.

Las Vegas police arrest teen in April drive-by shooting murder of woman in southwest valley

A man who identified himself as her boyfriend told police, that he saw the two teens walking toward them and then he saw a person lean out of a passing car and immediately began firing a handgun in their direction, striking McCowan in the back and neck as she ran for cover, the report stated.

Shawna McCowan, 43, was killed in drive-by shooting in Las Vegas on April 23, 2023. (Credit: Autumn McCowan)

Police recovered evidence indicating at least 16 shots were fired. McCowan was the only person hit. The targeted teens ran from the shooting scene and the vehicle drove off. According to the documents, police used surveillance videos and witness statements to track down the teens involved.

Family fights for justice after Colorado woman killed in drive-by shooting in Las Vegas

Kevin Perez-Stubbs, 16, was arrested on May 24. His name was not made public at the time due to his age. The arrests of his brother Johnathan, and Mezarius Finch occurred last week, almost five months later, 8 News Now first reported.

All three are facing open murder with the use of a deadly weapon, attempted murder with the use of a deadly weapon, and conspiracy to commit murder charges in the death of McCowan.

Johnathan Perez-Stubbs is in custody at the Clark County Detention Center and is scheduled to have a preliminary hearing on Nov. 8.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
(CNN)  Al Jazeera said its bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Al Dahdouh, lost his wife, son, daughter, and grandson in what it said was an Israeli airstrike on Wednesday. The blast hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza where the family was taking shelter after being displaced, according to the news organization.

Members of the family of our colleague Wael Al Dahdouh, including his wife, son, and daughter, were martyred in an Israeli bombing, Al Jazeera wrote in an on-air message.

Al-Jazeera reported Al-Dahdouhs grandson Adam was declared dead two hours later.

CNN cannot independently confirm the source of the blast at the house, and Al Jazeera did not provide evidence linking it directly to an Israeli strike. The IDF has not yet responded to CNNs requests for comment.

An emotional Al Dahdouh was seen in a video crying as he stood over his sons body, wrapped in a white sheet. The distraught journalist was also seen carrying the small body of his grandson through Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Gaza.

His son Mahmoud was 15 years old, and his daughter Sham was seven years old, Al Jazeera reported.

Al Jazeera anchor Abdisalam Farah announced the deaths on air, visibly struggling to keep his composure and tearing up.

The Al Dahdouh family were displaced from Tal El Hawa to Nuseirat refugee camp, which they thought would be a safe place for them to stay, Al Jazeeras office in Ramallah told CNN.

Israels leadership has vowed to wipe out Hamas, the Islamist group that controls Gaza, in response to its October 7 deadly terror attacks and kidnap rampage in which 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 200 taken hostage.

Its weeks-long siege on Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis inside the enclave, now cut off from the world by a near-total blockade, say aid groups. Israeli airstrikes have decimated entire neighborhoods, leveling homes, schools, and mosques.

CNN drone footage from Monday showed the level of destruction across parts of the strip, with whole streets flattened in the al-Rimal neighborhood in Gaza City and a row of destroyed buildings known as al-Zahra towers in central Gaza.

More than 6,400 people have been killed and a further 17,000 injured in Israels sustained aerial bombardment of the crowded enclave, according to latest figures from the Hamas-controlled health authorities in Gaza published by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah.

Horrifying

Advocacy groups condemned the death of Al Dahdouhs family members on Wednesday. The International Press Institute (IPI) called it horrifying and outrageous news, in a statement. We condemn the killing of civilians and offer our deepest condolences to Wael Dahdouh.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 24 journalists have died since the start of this conflict as of Wednesday. Twenty of those killed are Palestinian, three are Israeli, and one is a Lebanese journalist, CPJ said.

The figure includes Palestinian journalist Roshdi Sarraj, according to Palestinian press agency WAFA, which said he was killed in an Israeli airstrike.

Sarraj was a fixer at French national public radio broadcaster Radio France and had been working with its correspondents since May 2021, according to Radio France.

When CNN reached out to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for comment on Sarrajs death, it said on Monday that in stark contrast to Hamas intentional attacks on Israeli men, women and children, the IDF follows international law and takes feasible precautions to mitigate civilian harm.

CNNs Mihir Melwani, Pierre Meilha and Sophie Jeong contributed to this report.

This story was first published on CNN.com, 'Journalists family was killed in Gaza strike, says Al Jazeera'
Tennessee this week sued the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which pulled millions in family planning funding after the state violated federal requirements for clinics to counsel clients on all reproductive health options, including abortion.

Tennessee blocked clinics from counseling patients on medical options that aren't legal in the state, which has one of the strictest anti-abortion laws in the country.

In the complaint filed in federal court in Knoxville, Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti argues HHS rules about Title X requirements have flip-flopped in recent years and that the HHS requirement violates Tennesseans' "First Amendment rights not to engage in speech or conduct that facilitatesabortions."

Title X funding has never covered abortion procedures. Tennessee had previously received more than $7 million to fund birth control, family planning and basic infertility treatments, among other services.

After Tennessee failed its Title X certification this spring, HHS crafted a workaround to funnel a $3.9 million grant to Planned Parenthood and a $3.9 million grant to Mississippi-based reproductive health care clinic Converge. The funds are earmarked for family planning services for low-income residents and directly bypass the state health department, which previously distributed the grants.

Skrmetti accused the federal government of "playing politics with the health of Tennessee women."

Tennessee Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti talks with a group of people after speaking about the impact of social media has on children and families during a town hall meeting on Thursday, March 2, 2023, in Clarksville, Tenn.

"Just last year, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services praised Tennessees Department of Health as the only agency with the capacity, staff, and expertise to administer Title X funds with integrity and without a gap in services in the state,'" Skrmetti said. "This year, the federal government illegally diverted those funds to Planned Parenthood. Our lawsuit is necessary to ensure that Tennessee can continue its 50-year track record of successfully providing these public health services to its neediest populations.

Ashley Coffield, CEO of Planned Parenthood of Tennessee and North Mississippi, said Title X funding is an important part of providing Tennesseans affordable sexual and reproductive health care.

She said Wednesday that the organization is "thrilled once again to be a part of delivering these services to the people of Tennessee  particularly in light of the states ongoing assault on sexual and reproductive health.

The current Title X debate is not the state's first funding fight over its ideological battle with Planned Parenthood.

In January, Tennessee announced it would cut funding for HIV prevention, detection and treatment programs that are not affiliated with metro health departments, rejecting more than $4 million in federal HIV prevention funds.

Tennessee said it could make up the lost fund with state dollars, but advocates decried the move and its potential impact on vulnerable communities as the state remains an HIV-transmission hotspot. The Commercial Appeal later confirmed Tennessee gave up funding after it tried and failed to cut out Planned Parenthood from the HIV prevention grant program.

More: Letter: Tennessee tried to remove Planned Parenthood from program before HIV grant cut

Skrmetti has asked a federal judge to rule HHS' Title X decision unlawful and award Tennessee its grant funding directly.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Reach Melissa Brown at mabrown@tennessean.com.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee sues federal government over family planning Title X funding
A Tennessee towing company that had been illegally towing big rigs from the lot of a truck stop after the owner hired them has been on a rampage. The company has continued to tow and boot semi trucks, surprisingly without any legal pushback. That is until recently, when the tows caught the attention of state officials.

Memphis WREG reports that complaints against A-1 Towing have gotten so numerous, the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security have become involved. Both are working together with Memphis Polices Criminal Investigation Division to look into the towing companys activities.



Read more

Another trucking company owner out of Iowa described how their driver wasnt able to find parking at a Loves Travel Stop. So they parked in a lot next to the stop and hopped out to get food. Within minutes of coming back, the driver found A-1 already hooking their truck up to be towed. The owner admits the driver didnt see the sign about no parking, but takes issue with the $2,450 they were charged to get the truck back.

Its crazy, and its not affordable. That is a semester of college for my daughter, and she is only in community college. Its insane. And they wouldnt take a credit card, just cash or a wire transfer, they said.

A-1 also seems to be violating Memphis booting ordnance, which states the maximum charge for a boot removal should not exceed $50, a vehicle thats booted cannot be towed unless the owner fails to contact the booting company within 24 hours, and a booting licensee must accept checks, cash, or credit cards. A-1 has been charging truckers $275 to get boots removed.

In a statement to WREG, A-1 Towing defended itself with the usual PR spill you see when you know a company or individual has done something wrong.

A1s Towing & Hauling operates on a strict protocol wherein we respond to service requests from individuals and companies, including our services for parking compliance. Our drivers are dispatched from our yard to perform these services professionally and within the boundaries of the law. Any attempts to depict A1s Towing & Hauling as participating in illegal towing, price gouging, or any other illicit activities are baseless and untruthful. A1s Towing & Hauling has not violated any civil ordinance with the fees charged for booting. Sec 11-70-8 applies to passenger motor vehicles, not for commercial vehicles such as 18-wheelers, big rigs, or tractor-trailers within the City of Memphis. We want to emphasize that A1s Towing & Hauling takes customer interactions seriously.

If nothing is done, more trucking companies might stop doing business in Memphis, more than some already have.

We are going to tell our fellow brethren dont refuel in Memphis, Tennessee. Let them go broke. Dont fuel there. Dont give them any business. Dont do it. Its not OK, the owner of one trucking company said.

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Sea otter 841  the surfboard-biting-and-stealing mammal who became a national sensation this summer  has given birth to a fluffy pup.

On Wednesday afternoon, she was seen far off the Santa Cruz coast, rolling and spinning in the kelp and waves with a little otter pup on her belly.

Mark Woodward, her No. 1 fan and most dedicated chronicler, said he spotted the pup for the first time Tuesday afternoon.

"I couldn't believe it," he said. "I think I let out a yelp when I saw it."

Woodward, a social media influencer who goes by the tag @NativeSantaCruz on Twitter, Instagram and Threads, said that as recently as Friday, 841 had been been swimming, lolling and feeding solo.

The pup's birth, which has yet to be officially confirmed by state and federal wildlife authorities, may explain 841's unusually aggressive behavior toward multiple surfers  at least one of whom abandoned their board and saw it carted off by the slick-haired cousin of the skunk and weasel. The gestational period for otters is roughly six months, and during this period, hormonal changes can cause the animal to become aggressive, experts say.

Emerson Brown, a spokesman for the Monterey Bay Aquarium, said he and the "aquarium team" could not comment on the situation.

Read more: A renegade sea otter is terrorizing California surfers: 'It's a little scary'

He said they'd "seen tweets, like everyone, but cant confirm anything based on those images. We are waiting on confirmation from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service."

A spokeswoman for the federal agency said they were deploying someone to the area Thursday to confirm existence of the pup.

"While wildlife biologists suspected sea otter 841 may [have been] pregnant earlier this year, they were unable to verify the pregnancy without capturing the sea otter to perform a full health evaluation," said Ashley McConnell, communications team leader in the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

"Hormonal surges related to pregnancy have been known to cause aggressive behavior in female southern sea otters. ... There are currently no plans to attempt capture."

She'd given birth twice before. Her first pup survived; the second, born this spring, did not.

Gena Bentall, director and senior scientist with Sea Otter Savvy  a local research and environmental organization  said she and her group were "not participating in or supporting any media publicity around 841. We do not feel it is in her best interest."

Spectators flocked to the Santa Cruz coastline in the summer to catch a glimpse of sea otter 841. The creature had been unusually aggressive toward surfers and even stole a board from one. (Gary Coronado / Los Angeles Times)

Woodward wasn't surprised by Bentall's response. After the media blitz this summer, he said, he saw several boaters and kayakers harassing the otter, getting too close and potentially stressing her out and threatening her safety.

"People need to know they should give her space," Woodward said, citing federal regulations that require boats to keep a distance of 60 feet.

"To help give sea otters and their pups the best chance at survival in the wild, it's important for members of the public to give them and their pups space, especially when recreating on the water," said McConnell, noting that sea otters are protected by the Endangered Species Act, the Marine Mammal Protection Act and California state law.

She said a violation of these laws could result in penalties, including fines up to $100,000 and potential jail time of up to one year.

News of the pup  which was posted on the site formerly known as Twitter, by Woodward and Dustin Mulvaney, a professor of environmental studies at San Jose State University  was greeted with amazement by many.

Read more: California's wily, surfboard-stealing sea otter evades capture again

Zach Friend, a Santa Cruz County supervisor, said: "Its beautiful to see the expansion of Team Otter. Hopefully she will be given the space she deserves to raise our newest, and already famous, Santa Cruz County resident."

However, Joon Lee, an Apple software engineer from San Jose  whose board was attacked by 841 in July  said that although the news was "amazing," he'd still want to make sure that she had stopped "attacking or getting on top of surfboards before I go out to the water."

Last summer, after he'd been aggressively attacked, he developed a slight case of lutraphobia  a fear of otters  which squelched his desire to surf.

Woodward said he's excited to watch 841 raise the little pup; since first spotting her in June, he's become a local expert on sea otter behavior and biology  noting that sea otter moms have to leave their pups on the ocean's surface when they dive to the bottom for shellfish and other meals.

"Feeding and caring for a pup requires significant energy reserves," said Fish and Wildlife's McConnell.

She said that unlike whales and seals, which have a thick layer of blubber, sea otters rely on their thick fur and super-high metabolic rate to stay warm. The average adult sea otter has to actively forage and eat 20% to 30% of its body mass in food each day just to meet its energy requirements.

"That's why it's incredibly important for sea otters to conserve their energy, and why they are often seen resting on their backs on the water's surface when they are not foraging  their survival, and the survival of their pups, depends on it," McConnell said.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Sgt. Garrett Hardin, a deputy in Harris County, fatally shot Roderick Brooks last year.

Sgt. Garrett Hardin, a deputy in Harris County, fatally shot Roderick Brooks last year.

A grand jury on Thursday charged Garrett Hardin, a deputy in Harris County, Texas, with first-degree murder after last years fatal shooting of Roderick Brooks, a Black man.

On July 8, 2022, Hardin responded to a 911 call from a Dollar General employee in Houston who was reporting a shoplifter. The employee said the shoplifter had hit her as he left the store but she did not believe he had a weapon.

Hardin arrived at the scene and chased Brooks, 47. Body-camera footage of the incident shows Hardin hitting Brooks with his stun gun, bringing him to the ground. The video then shows Hardin pinning Brooks to the ground and the two men scuffling for a moment until Hardin fires a shot near Brooks neck.

Hardin was placed on administrative duty pending the case going before a grand jury, the sheriffs office said in a statement. Following the indictment, the office said, he will be relieved of duty and faces potential disciplinary action.

After waiting over a year for this case to go to a grand jury, the family is relieved that the journey for justice on behalf of Roderick Brooks has begun, an attorney for Brooks family said in a statement after the indictment. They are looking forward to the prosecution of this rogue cop who used his badge and gun under the color of law to murder Roderick Brooks.

This is not his first time, but the family prays it will be his last time using his position to exact injustice and the taking of life on anyone else, the attorney said.

Hardin, who has served with the Harris County Sheriffs Office for 20 years, had a history of suspensions, HuffPost reported last year.

He had been suspended without pay eight times since 2004 for infractions that included crashing his patrol car into another vehicle, giving false statements to his supervisors, and making lewd and sexual remarks to officers working under him.

Brooks family filed a wrongful death lawsuit last September, citing Hardins history of issues in the department. The lawsuit is ongoing.
The Texas Department of Public Safety along with other law enforcement agencies will be conducting a live training exercise Thursday night, Oct. 26, in the Union Building at the University of Texas at El Paso.

The large-scale simulation will be from 8 p.m. Thursday to 3 a.m. Friday and will result in the closure of nearby streets near some campus entrances, Texas DPS said.

University Avenue will be closed near the Hilton Garden Inn and Randolph Drive will be closed near Kidd Field.

The Texas Department of Public Safety and other first-responders will have a live training exercise at the Union Building on the UTEP campus on Thursday, Oct. 26. In this file photo, state troopers block a road near the Cielo Vista Walmart on the day after the Aug. 3, 2019, mass shooting in El Paso.

What is happening at UTEP?

The Texas Department of Public Safety and federal and local first responders will have a live training exercise in the Union Building on the UTEP campus. The training event is closed to the public and the news media.

Why are police at UTEP?

The training exercise will include Texas DPS, El Paso Police Department, El Paso Fire Department, El Paso County Sheriffs Office, FBI and U.S. Border Patrol along with the El Paso Department of Public Health, the Texas Department of Emergency Management and the county medical examiner.

Education: UTEP replacing aging Liberal Arts Building with $110M classroom complex

Wasn't there a lockdown at UTEP a few years ago?

The training on Thursday comes nearly two years to the day when UTEP went on a shelter-in-place alert during a quick-moving manhunt for two homicide suspects who entered the campus while running from El Paso police.

More news: Hurricane Otis kills at least 27 in Mexico as Acapulco continues to count casualties

On Oct. 28, 2021, two men were arrested after security camera video showed them enter the Union Building, where they were found hiding behind a curtain on an auditorium stage.

Robron Lewis and Tranquil Jovan Card Jr. were accused of killing 22-year-old Jacal Jacob Allen, who was shot multiple times during the robbery of 10 pounds of marijuana during a drug deal in the parking lot of the McDonald's restaurant on North Mesa Street near Interstate 10. An off-duty police officer saw the men driving away, leading to a chase ending up on the university campus.

Lewis and Card face capital murder charges and remain incarcerated at the El Paso County Jail Annex. Lewis is scheduled to go on trial next August while Card is set to go on trial in October 2024, according to court records.

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Texas DPS, police agencies to have training exercise at UTEP
An East Texas high school principal will not be charged with child abuse after he paddled a student, Rusk County officials said this week. Credit: Tamir Kalifa for The Texas Tribune

An East Texas high school principal who paddled a student and caused her bodily injury will not be criminally prosecuted.

The Rusk County District Attorneys office filed a motion to dismiss the case, which sprung from an Aug. 14 incident when Overton High School principal Jeff Hogg used a wooden paddle to discipline an unnamed female student. Hogg was arrested in September on one count of assault but was released on bond and quickly returned to his duties as principal as the DAs office investigated .

In a motion to dismiss the case, the DAs office cited an email from the Texas Department of Family and Protective Service that found the alleged abuse did not occur. The motion also noted that Hogg had acted in accordance with the school districts corporal punishment policy and that he had the authority of the students parent. A justice of the peace approved the motion and ordered the case be dismissed this week.

Texas is one of 17 states that allow public school educators to use corporal punishment, which includes hitting, spanking, paddling or deliberately inflicting pain to discipline students. A school districts board of trustees must adopt a policy allowing the practice, and parents can opt their student out of corporal punishment by providing written notice to the district.

Overton High School, which sits in a town of about 2,300 people, is one of 8,758 Texas high schools that used corporal punishment on students during the 2017-18 school year, the most recent year for which data is available.

According to public documents, Hogg hit a female student three times, and the student had visible bruising at least 48 hours after the incident. The student reported a complaint with the Rusk County Sheriffs Office.

Overton ISD allows students to choose between paddling or in-school suspension. In this case, the student chose paddling, and the students parent and another female witness remained in the room. After receiving two hits, the student said she was hurt and didnt want the third hit, the affidavit states, but both Hogg and the students mother encouraged the student to complete the punishment. The student decided to follow through and receive the third hit.

A forensic pediatrician who evaluated photographs of the childs injuries said that the injuries were consistent with abuse, according to the affidavit. Still, the district attorney's office said that such phrasing is popular for scientific testimony but may not be sufficiently reliable.

Research has repeatedly found that corporal punishment does not benefit students and can worsen their mental health and lead to increased aggression and antisocial behavior. The American Academy of Pediatrics has urged states to abandon the practice in favor of nonviolent behavioral strategies such as restorative justice, conflict resolution and individual therapy.

Texas lawmakers have long discussed banning the practice. Rep. Alma Allen, a Houston Democrat and former public school teacher, has carried a bill to eliminate the practice in each biennial session for the past 18 years. This year, the bill did make it onto the House floor, where Republican lawmakers referenced the Bible to argue that schools should be allowed to continue the practice. The bill failed with a 58-86 vote in the lower chamber.

To me, it reflects poorly on the Texas Legislature that this law is allowed to exist, said Robert Fathman, the founder of the National Coalition to Abolish Corporal Punishment in Schools. Texas is one of a shrinking number of states where teachers are hitting kids with boards. That should be a terrible embarrassment to everyone in the state of Texas.

Superintendent of Overton ISD Larry Calhoun said he supports the district attorneys action to dismiss the case.

We had believed from the beginning that this was the only appropriate result, Calhoun said. We dont feel the need to publicly discuss the incident any further. We will continue to focus our efforts on serving our students and community and on emphasizing the great things that happen everyday at Overton ISD.

Calhoun said the school board evaluates district policies each year and they would likely evaluate the corporal punishment policy as well.
A bill that would allow local police to arrest migrants in Texas passed the states House of Representatives Thursday.

The bill will now head to the state Senate.

The bill also would make it a criminal offense for someone who is not a U.S. citizen or national to enter the state anywhere besides a lawful port of entry.

It would allow law enforcement officers to return anyone violating that law to the country they came from.

House passage of the bill reflects the hard line the Texas Legislature is taking on immigration as a steady wave of migrants comes to the border.

Just two days before, Texas sued the Biden administration seeking to stop federal agents from cutting razor wire on the border.

The Department of Justice sued Texas in July to compel Gov. Greg Abbott (R) to remove a barrier system in the Rio Grande designed to stop migrants from entering the U.S.

We allege that Texas has flouted federal law by installing a barrier in the Rio Grande without obtaining the required federal authorization, Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta said in a statement announcing the lawsuit.

Mexican officials made complaints against the use of the barriers in an official letter to the U.S. government in July. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador also criticized border control efforts by Texas as inhumane in the wake of two bodies found in the Rio Grande in early August.

No one should be treated like this, Lopez Obrador said, according to CNN. That kind of treatment does not come from a good person; only by being good can we be happy 

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
This undated photo provided by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice shows Texas death row inmate William Speer, who faces execution Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, for killing another prisoner more than 26 years ago. The victims sister and religious leaders have asked authorities to spare his life. Speer, 49, is set to receive a lethal injection at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. (Texas Department of Criminal Justice via AP) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

HOUSTON (AP)  Texas' top criminal appeals court has stopped Thursday evening's scheduled execution of a Texas inmate who had been condemned for killing another prisoner more than 26 years ago.

William Speer, 49, had been set to receive a lethal injection at the state penitentiary in Huntsville. The victims sister and religious leaders had recently asked authorities to spare his life.

Speer was convicted of the strangling death of Gary Dickerson in July 1997 at the Telford state prison, located near New Boston in northeast Texas.

His attorneys had asked the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals to stop his execution over allegations that prosecutors at his 2001 trial failed to disclose evidence, presented false testimony and that his trial lawyers failed to present evidence about Speers troubled childhood. They say Speer was physically and sexually abused as a child. Prosecutors have denied the allegations against them.

Less than five hours before his scheduled execution at 6 p.m. CDT, the appeals court granted the request by Speer's attorneys.

We have reviewed the application and find that (Speer's) execution should be stayed pending further order of this Court, the appeals court wrote in its two-page order.

Speer's lawyers said the stay order cannot be appealed to federal courts because it is a state law issue.

His lawyers said Speer has transformed while in prison, expressed regret for his actions and now helps lead a religious program that ministers to other death row inmates.

We are relieved that Will Speer will live to see another day so he can continue to spread his message of hope and healing in Texas prisons, said Amy Fly, one of Speers attorneys. Wills life of ministry, and his efforts to offer some measure of peace to his victims families, are an inspiration. We are grateful for the thousands of people, including faith leaders and his victims survivors, who told the State of Texas that Wills life was worth saving.

The Texas Attorney General's Office did not immediately reply to an email seeking comment.

I am so aware of the things that Ive done. Im so aware of the pain and the hurt that Ive caused. I could just say that Im sorry, Speer said in a video submitted as part of an earlier clemency petition to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Speers attorneys had also asked to stop his execution over claims the states supply of pentobarbital, the drug used in executions, was exposed to extreme heat during an August fire at a state prison, making it unsafe. A federal judge and the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals had earlier this week denied appeals on that claim. A similar allegation made by another inmate, Jedidiah Murphy, was unsuccessful and he was executed earlier this month.

The Texas Attorney Generals Office said the execution drugs were tested after the fire for potency and sterility. Murphys execution showed the state can handle Speers execution in a safe and humane manner, authorities said.

At the time of inmate Dickerson's killing, Speer had been serving a life sentence for fatally shooting a friends father, Jerry Collins, at the mans Houston area home in January 1991. Speer was 16 then.

The paroles board on Tuesday voted 7-0 against commuting Speers death sentence to a lesser penalty. Members also rejected granting a six-month reprieve.

Speer killed Dickerson in a bid to join the Texas Mafia prison gang, prosecutors said. The gang ordered the hit after mistakenly concluding Dickerson had informed authorities about tobacco it had tried to smuggle into the prison.

Speer and another inmate, Anibal Canales Jr. were sentenced to death for the killing. Canales remains on death row.

At Speers trial, Sammie Martin, who is Dickersons only living sibling, told jurors her mother was devasted by her brother's death.

But Martin asked that Speers life be spared.

I have spent much time reflecting on what justice my brother and my family deserved, Martin wrote in federal court documents filed earlier this week. In my heart, I feel that he is not only remorseful for his actions but has been doing good works for others and has something left to offer the world.

Martin said she was never informed by prosecutors about Speers scheduled execution.

In court documents filed this week, lawyers with the Texas Attorney Generals Office said that despite Martins feelings about Speers execution, the state retains its interest in deterring gang murders and prison violence, as well as seeing justice done for Dickerson.

A group of religious leaders from around the country have also asked that Speer be spared. In a letter to the paroles board and Gov. Greg Abbott, they wrote that Speers religious work with other prisoners does not excuse his actions, but it gives us a fuller picture of who Will is as a human, Christian, leader, and teacher.

Two more executions are scheduled in Texas this year.

___

Follow Juan A. Lozano on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals stayed the execution of William Speer on Thursday, just hours before he was scheduled to be executed. He was sentenced to death for the 1997 murder of a fellow prison inmate.

Speers attorneys alleged that prosecutors did not disclose evidence and presented false testimony during his 2001 trial, which prosecutors deny. Additionally, his current legal team said Speers trial lawyers did not include evidence about the physical and sexual abuse he endured as a child.

The criminal appeals court, Texas highest court for criminal cases, did not explicitly sustain those allegations. Its order only stayed the execution pending further order of this Court.

Despite requests from the victims sister and religious leaders to spare Speer, the Texas Attorney Generals Office said this week in court documents that the state still has an interest in pursuing the death penalty. Speers lawyers  who maintain that he has transformed while in prison  failed in state and federal courts to stop the execution.

More than two decades ago, Speer was sentenced to death for the murder of Gary Dickerson, in an effort to join a Texas Mafia prison gang in state prison. When Speer killed Dickerson, he was serving a life sentence for the murder of his friends father, Jerry Collins, who he suspected of abusing his friend. Speer was 16 at the time of the first killing.

In the decades Speer has spent on death row, he has participated in the Texas Department of Criminal Justices Rehabilitation Programs Division as the first inmate coordinator. During the 18-month rehabilitation program, Speer worked with 28 people on death row by leading religious services and weekly classes.

But in the decades since Speer killed Dickerson, the victim's only living sibling asked that Speers life be spared. Sammie Martin submitted federal court documents this week that attested to Speers remorse and said that he has done good work for others.

Additionally, a group of religious leaders appealed to Gov. Greg Abbott and the parole board to stop the execution based on Speers faith-based work with other prisoners.

On Tuesday, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles unanimously voted to deny clemency or a six-month reprieve for Speer.

The Special Prosecution Unit, which is an organization that oversees crimes that occur in Texas prisons, does not plan to appeal the criminal court's order said Melinda Fletcher, general counsel for SPU, in an emailed statement to The Texas Tribune.

"This is out of respect for the Court," she said.
(Bloomberg) -- Thailand, renowned as the Detroit of Asia for its production of internal combustion engine cars, wants to break into the top tier of electric vehicle makers as part of a goal to lure 1 trillion baht ($28 billion) of investments in four years.

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To that end, the Southeast Asian nation has set up a special operation center to catch what its investment board head calls the big fish of the EV industry and other strategic sectors. Chinese EV makers are a top target, Narit Therdsteerasukdi, secretary-general of the Board of Investment, said in an interview.

The agencys investment target for the four years through 2027 in five strategic sectors has not been previously reported.

EV and automotive, electronics, digital, so-called regional headquarters and green economy are the five strategic industries being prioritized by the board for investments, Narit said.

While Thailand has already attracted a slew of Chinese companies including BYD Co., Great Wall Motor Co. and SAIC Motor Corp., a look at EV investment trends in 2022 shows the urgency for the nation to get in on the action. The US, Hungary, Mexico, Indonesia and Germany cornered the bulk of the more than $106 billion investments pledged in EV projects globally last year, according to data from greenfield investment monitor fDi Markets.

The newly-set up Bangkok-based Special Operation Center For Strategic Investment is now working almost around-the-clock to identify high-potential investors and arrange high-level meetings for the government, and accompany Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin on important overseas trips to try to lock down investment pledges.

After Sretthas visit to the US last month, the board is also courting what Narit calls hyperscalers, including Microsoft Corp., Google, and Amazon Web Services, to build or increase their presence in Thailand through fresh investments.

Read More: China Electric Carmakers Eye Detroit of Asia in Next Sales Push

The next few years from now is a golden opportunity for Thailand to attract investment by tapping into the restructuring in global supply chain and relocation trends. We must seize it, said Narit, who last week joined Sretthas meetings with potential new investors in Beijing. We will be intensifying our efforts from now.

Growth Target

The BOIs four-year investment goal is in line with the governments pledge to stimulate economic growth to about 5% annually over the same period  a much-needed revival after Southeast Asias second-largest economy lagged most regional peers in recent years.

Read More: New Thai Leader Says He Wants to Catch Vietnam, Attract Tesla

Thailands investment target for the five strategic sectors compares with the 1.23 trillion baht commitments it received between 2019 and 2022 for 12 target industries then.

The nation has recorded 365 billion baht in foreign direct investment applications in the first eight months of this year, with Chinese investors accounting for a quarter of the total.

While Chinese investments are surging on the one hand, Japanese legacy automakers, which made inroads into Thailand decades ago, have been pouring more money into factory expansion plans on the other, according to Narit. Still, Thailand is looking to help them shift to clean energy  not just fully electric cars but also hydrogen-powered models.

The target is achievable, especially if we keep promoting EVs, Narit said, adding that more firms in the EV supply chain, including battery makers, are expected to follow suit. Were aggressively seeking new players to set up shop in Thailand but that alone isnt enough to make us number one.

On Thursday, Chinas Chongqing Changan Automobile became the latest EV maker to sign a land deal to build a factory in Thailand with a target to begin production in 2025. The country is also in talks with other Chinese players such as Geely and Chery, according to Narit.

In 2022, foreign direct investment applications in the automotive sector reached almost 100 billion baht, a 347% jump from 2021. Owing largely to the EV rush, automotive saw the third most investment pouring in after electronics and machinery, accounting for about 23% of the value of foreign projects that year.

Thailand is preparing incentives to keep the EV investment momentum and quell continuity concerns raised by investors, Narit said. The so-called EV 3.5 new incentive packages are expected to be submitted to the cabinet soon now that Srettha on Wednesday appointed the countrys new EV board under his chairmanship.

Were not taking a single step back with EVs, Narit said. Were full speed ahead.

(Updates with Changan Auto signing land deal in 14th paragraph. An earlier version of the story corrected headline and lead to clarify type of investment.)

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Jerusalem and Gaza (CNN)  Israel conducted a targeted raid using tanks in northern Gaza before withdrawing, its military said Thursday, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned a ground incursion into the besieged enclave will take place.

Video published by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Thursday showed tanks and armored vehicles, including a bulldozer, moving on a road near a fence in northern Gaza. The tanks fired artillery, and some destruction could be seen nearby.

Speaking to CNN, IDF spokesperson Peter Lerner said the raid, which he described as large but limited in scope, was a clear and sweep operation intended to create better terms for ground operations if and when that comes in.

We actually engaged the enemy, killing terrorists who were planning to conduct attacks against us with anti-tank guided missiles, he said.

The soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity, the IDF statement concluded.

The raid comes as new satellite images revealed the devastation wrought by Israels bombs in the embattled Gaza Strip.

As the humanitarian crisis reaches a critical point in Gaza, with daily airstrikes, life-saving fuel on the verge of running out and health services crippled, pressure is building on the international community to get Israel to allow desperately needed aid into Gaza, with more countries advocating for a humanitarian pause in fighting.

We are raining down hellfire on Hamas, Netanyahu said in a televised address Wednesday evening, while claiming Israel has already eliminated thousands of terrorists  and this is only the beginning.

At the same time, we are preparing for a ground incursion, he added, but said the decision on when such action would be taken would be decided by Israels War Cabinet.

The prime minister also acknowledged for the first time that he will have to give answers for the intelligence failures that allowed the worst terror attack in Israeli history, saying it will be examined fully after the war.

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, the militant group which controls Gaza, in response to its October 7 deadly terror attacks and kidnap rampage in which 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed and more than 200 taken hostage.

Israeli forces said they killed the deputy head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate  one of the Hamas officials they say is partially responsible for planning the October 7 attacks  in a joint statement Thursday from the IDF and Shin Bet, the Israeli Security Agency.

Based on precise IDF and ISA intelligence, IDF fighter jets struck the Deputy Head of the Hamas Intelligence Directorate, Shadi Barud, the statement said, adding that Barud previously served as Hamas battalion commander in Khan Yunis and had held several other positions in Hamas military intelligence.

The IDF and ISA also released footage they claim shows the strikes that killed Barud, showing at least two damaged buildings in Gaza appearing to collapse.

Hamas has not commented on the claim.

Its retaliatory air assault on what Israel calls Hamas terror infrastructure has since devastated the densely-populated 140-square-mile enclave, which had been described by rights groups as an open-air prison long before the current war began.

New satellite images released by Maxar taken on October 21, show significant destruction to sites across northern Gaza, with entire neighborhoods flattened in eastern Beit Hanoun and similar devastation near the Al Shati Refugee Camp, Atatra and Izbat Beit Hanoun.

The IDF told civilians to leave the crowded northern portion of the Palestinian enclave, where the bombardment has been especially severe. But it has also continued to bomb areas in the south, with a CNN producer in Gaza saying there is no safe area.

Israeli strikes have killed more than 6,850 people and injured a further 17,000 in Gaza since October 7, according to figures released Thursday by the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah drawn from sources in the Hamas-controlled enclave.

At a press conference Thursday, Gaza health ministry spokesman Ashraf Al-Qidra said 12 hospitals had been rendered non-operational since Israels bombing campaign began, and 101 medical personnel had been killed.

He accused Israeli forces of deliberately causing a complete collapse of the healthcare system by obstructing the entry of fuel and essential medical supplies into Gaza. Israel says Hamas diverts fuel transfer into Gaza for military purposes.

On Wednesday, Al Jazeera said its bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Al-Dahdouh, lost his wife, son, daughter and grandson in what it said was an Israeli airstrike.

The blast hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip where the family was taking shelter after being displaced, according to Al Jazeera. In total, 12 members of the Al-Dahdouh family were killed in the blast, including nine children, a statement from the family said Thursday.

The IDF told CNN it did carry out an airstrike in the area where Al-Dahdouhs relatives were killed, saying it had targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area.

Strikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties, it added.

But harrowing photos show Al-Dahdouh seeing the bodies of his wife and children in the morgue. In one image he can be seen holding the body of his daughter, who is wrapped in a white shroud.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), at least 24 journalists have died since the start of this conflict as of Wednesday. Twenty of those killed are Palestinian, three are Israeli, and one is a Lebanese journalist, CPJ said.

Overcrowded hospitals on the brink of collapse say they are overwhelmed with the numbers of injured people arriving every day and doctors have repeatedly told CNN they dont have the supplies or the electricity to run critical functions to care properly for them, or other patients, who rely on oxygen supplies to survive.

Videos filmed by journalists working with CNN showed victims in body bags in the aftermath of airstrikes and severely injured people, including children, in overcrowded hospitals.

Families that fled south in an attempt to flee the bombs and staying in UN shelters are grappling with overcrowded conditions which are severely constraining access to basic assistance and essential services, increasing health and protection risks, and negatively affecting mental health, the UN humanitarian affairs office (OCHA) warned Thursday.

A total of 1.4 million people  of Gazas population of more than 2 million  have been displaced since October 7, with almost 629,000 people living in UN shelters, OCHA said. Half of Gazas population are children.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) in Gaza said Wednesday it will have to halt aid operations within a day if fuel is not delivered, saying it would mark the end of a lifeline for civilians.

UNRWA director for Gaza Tom White told CNN that aid workers would have to decide what aspects of life-saving aid they could and could not provide to civilians.

Do we provide fuel for desalination plants for drinking water? Can we provide fuel to hospitals? Can we provide the essential fuel that is currently producing the bread that is feeding people in Gaza? he said.

Nearly three weeks since the outbreak of fighting, the UNs Security Council remains divided on how to proceed with the crisis. Two differing resolutions on the matter, introduced by the US and Russia, both failed to pass on Wednesday.

The draft resolution from the US called for humanitarian pauses, not a ceasefire, to allow for aid to reach Gazan civilians. The US previously vetoed a Brazilian draft calling for a humanitarian pause.

The European Union may also lean toward calling for a short humanitarian pause in Gaza after leaders meet on Thursday, a senior diplomat said.

Several leaders have already voiced some version of this, including Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and the foreign ministers of Ireland and Slovenia.

Meanwhile in Moscow, representatives from Hamas held talks with a senior Russian foreign ministry official on Thursday, according to Russian state media TASS and a statement from Hamas.

TASS said the discussions centered on the release of hostages held by Hamas and the evacuation of Russian citizens from Gaza.

The Hamas delegation praised the position of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the efforts of Russian diplomacy, according to the militant groups statement. Mousa Abu Marzouk, deputy chief of Hamass political bureau, and Basem Naim, another senior Gaza-based Hamas leader, were part of the delegation which met with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Presidential Representative for the Middle East and Africa, Mikhail Bogdanov, it also said.

Qatar, which is helping to mediate with Egypt, US, Israel and Hamas, is hopeful for a breakthrough soon on negotiations to release hostages held by the militant group, the prime minister and foreign minister said Wednesday.

The hostage crisis is a truly international one.

Israels government press office said 135 hostages  more than half of those being held by Hamas  hold foreign passports from 25 different countries.

They include 54 Thai nationals, 15 Argentinians, and 12 citizens from Germany and the US.

Four hostages  two American and two Israeli  have been freed so far. Talks to secure the release of the rest of the hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza are ongoing, Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said.

US President Joe Biden said Wednesday he told Netanyahu that if its possible to secure the release of hostages in Gaza ahead of an Israeli ground invasion, he should do so.

But Biden said flatly no when asked whether hed sought assurances from his Israeli counterpart that he would hold off on a ground invasion while the hostages remain in custody.
(Bloomberg) -- Thailand is reviving plans to guarantee greater rights for same-sex couples, with a plan to submit a new bill to the countrys parliament in December that could make it the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize marriage equality.

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The new bill, which is set to be considered by the cabinet on Oct. 31, will guarantee marriage equality, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said in Bangkok on Thursday after chairing a meeting about gender and LGBTQ rights.

I believe that everyone should be entitled to equal rights, regardless of their gender, Srettha said in a post on X, adding that other rights-related issues were also being discussed.

If Sretthas 11-party coalition approves the bill next week, it will then go through three rounds of reading in parliament, which is set to re-convene in December, according to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke.

The so-called marriage equality bill is set to go further than the previous governments civil union bill, which sought to recognize same-sex civil partnerships in Thailand that would allow couples to adopt children, jointly manage assets and liabilities, and inherit properties but stopped short of legalizing same-sex marriage registrations. The bill failed to secure parliament nod as it was dissolved by then-Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-Ocha to pave way for an election in May.

READ: How Thailand Is Making Waves on Gay Rights, Legal Pot: QuickTake

Only two places in Asia  Taiwan and Nepal  currently recognize same-sex marriage, among fewer than 40 countries worldwide. Last week, Indias Supreme Court refused to legalize same-sex marriage, saying its an issue for parliament to consider.

Sretthas government is also urgently working on potential bills to recognize gender identity and legalize prostitution, the premier said.

Thailand is also looking to host the WorldPride events in Bangkok in 2028, Srettha said. WorldPride was first held in Rome in 2000 and is usually held every two to three years.

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A fire broke out at the Thermoelectric Power Plant No.16 in Moscow, which provides heat and electricity for 1.5 million households in northwestern Moscow.

Source: RIA Novosti, a pro-Kremlin Russian news outlet; Shot, a Russian Telegram channel

Details: According to official reports, three gas boilers caught fire, and part of the power plants roof caved in.

Russian emergency services cut off the supply of gas to the power plant and are waiting for the gas to burn out before they begin to extinguish the fire. The power plant was also cut off the grid.

It is currently unclear what caused the fire, but Russian officials promised to investigate this.

For reference: Thermoelectric Power Plant No.16 in Moscow supplies heat and electricity to over 1.5 million businesses and residential users in northwestern Moscow.

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Three dam expansion projects could increase water storage for use in the Central Valley by a whopping 304,000 acre feet.

Each of the projects would raise existing dams, not build new ones.

The project that is furthest along would raise the B.F. Sisk Dam in Merced County to expand San Luis Reservoir storage by 130,000 acre feet.

Two other projects are just at the proposal stages. One would raise the Buchanan Dam in Madera County to boost storage in H. V. Eastman Lake by 50,000 acre feet. And another would increase Pine Flat Dam in Fresno County to increase that lakes capacity by 124,000 acre feet.

The Bureau of Reclamation and San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority celebrated the approval of the Sisk Dam project at an event Oct. 20 at San Luis Reservoir.

The expansion and dam raise is a joint project between the two agencies and has received a stream of federal funding.

San Luis Reservoir, and B.F. Sisk Dam, shown here in March 2022, are located between Gilroy and Los Banos. The reservoir, which is 7 miles long, is a key part of Californiaas water supply for Central Valley farms and some urban areas, including San Jose.

In 2022, $25 million was invested in the project under President Bidens Bipartisan Infrastructure Law with another $10 million added this year. The project is also approved for $60 million from the federal Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act.

The projects construction timeline is still under development according to a spokesperson for the Bureau of Reclamation.

That comes alongside another 10-foot raise of the dam for seismic safety improvements. The seismic raise is a separate $1 billion-dollar endeavor.

The additional space in the reservoir will allow for more water to be delivered to contractors south of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, including the giant Westlands Water District, other ag districts and wildlife refuges.

The ability to capture more water in the years it is available, particularly given Californias changing climate, is a critical component of a more secure future for the communities, farms and wildlife dependent on the Central Valley Project for their water supply, said Cannon Michael, board chair of the San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority, in a press release. We value our partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation and look forward to completion of this vital water storage project.

The last few years were a stark demonstration of that climate variation with extreme drought gripping the state from 2020-2022 followed by an epic wet winter in 2023.

In Madera County, the Chowchilla Water District is spearheading an effort to raise the Buchanan Dam on Eastman Lake.

Image courtesy of SJV Water.

We know its gonna be a hell of a lift, said Brandon Tomlinson, general manager of the Chowchilla Water District. But we decided to go after it.

The dam would be raised by 24 feet and a 700-foot saddle dam would be built to help accommodate water storage. That would increase capacity from 150,000 acre feet to 200,000 acre feet, said Tomlinson.

The idea for the project started back in 2014 in response to the states Sustainable Groundwater Management Act which requires agencies in over-pumped areas to bring aquifers back into balance by 2040.

The dam is operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, which must give the project a green light. The project still needs a feasibility study approved which could potentially come in 2024.

In Fresno County, the Kings River Conservation District is also working toward a feasibility study to raise Pine Flat Dam. The dam would be raised by 12 feet to increase the lakes existing 1 million acre feet of storage by 124,000 acre feet.

The project would cost somewhere between $800 million and $1 billion, said David Merritt, general manager of Kings River Conservation District. The project needs further study with the Army Corps, said Merritt. And staff are trying to lock down funding for a feasibility study which could cost around $500,000, he added.

The project would help minimize downstream impacts during floods, said Merritt.

Two ducks walk on southbound 6th Avenue as it disappears beneath the widespread flooding seen about 1 mile south of Quebec Avenue south of the City of Corcoran where flooding is re-creating the old Tulare Lake. Photographed Thursday, April 6, 2023 south of Corcoran, California.

This year, severe floods overwhelmed valley infrastructure, swamping valley communities and reforming the Tulare Lake in Kings County. Projects such as the dam raise could help to minimize those impacts, said Merritt.

SJV Water is a nonprofit, independent online news publication covering water in the San Joaquin Valley. Lois Henry is the CEO/Editor of SJV Water. She can be reached at lois.henry@sjvwater.org. The website is www.sjvwater.org.
A man inspects his damaged home in Coxs Bazar on 25 October 2023, following the landfall of Cyclone Hamoon. Nearly 275,000 people in Bangladesh fled to shelters as Cyclone Hamoon barrelled into the southeastern coast, killing at least three people, officials said (AFP via Getty Images)

Three people were killed and over 275,000 people forced to find emergency shelters in Bangladesh as Cyclone Hamoon made landfall near the southeastern coast.

Walls and trees collapsed due to the impact of Hamoon on Tuesday night, leading to the deaths, the Dhaka Tribune reported.

Hamoon is the most recent in a series of major storms to pummel the coastal regions of Bangladesh. This low-lying South Asian nation is experiencing a growing frequency of severe weather events  a trend that is usually attributed by climate scientists to the climate crisis.

Senior official Kamrul Hasan, who is the secretary of the disaster management ministry, was quoted as saying by AFP: We evacuated 273,352 people to cyclone shelters.

At least 10 people were injured and are being treated in hospitals, he told the outlet. However, several other outlets said that nearly 20 sustained injuries.

Power lines were severed and coastal villages and islands endured heavy rainfall but local media said that there were no reports of extensive or significant damage.

Cyclone Hamoon made landfall in the Chittagong and Coxs Bazar coastal districts in the early hours of Wednesday morning, with wind speeds of up to 104kph.

The cyclone is expected to further move inland and weaken gradually.

Local media reported that Hamoon has taken a heavy toll on Coxs Bazar, catching residents off guard due to the cyclonic storms abrupt arrival.

Residents also alleged that there was a lack of timely warnings from the meteorological office which has drawn criticism from many.

A resident, Shahena Akhtar, told Dhaka Tribune that the local authorities failed to provide timely information resulting in residents being caught off guard and ill-prepared for the cyclone.

Coxs Bazar deputy commissioner Muhammad Shaheen Imran, however, stressed that there was no negligence on their part. He stated that warning messages had been distributed well in advance before Cyclone Hamoon struck, and proactive measures were implemented to evacuate tourists from Saint Martins Island.

Coxs Bazar district lost power late on Tuesday and district officials could not be contacted for updates on any damages caused, locals alleged.

Meanwhile, Samitipara, Fadnar Dale, and Nazirertek areas experienced extensive damage due to Hamoon.

In May, Cyclone Mocha emerged as the most potent storm to strike Bangladesh since the devastating Cyclone Sidr in November 2007. Sidr killed over 3,000 people and inflicted billions of dollars in damages.
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Good evening. Eighteen people have been killed and a further 13 injured in a mass shooting in Maine, the states governor has confirmed.



Elsewhere, Rachel Reeves has been dubbed the copy and paste shadow chancellor after her new book was found to have lifted a number of passages from Wikipedia.

18 killed and 13 injured in Maine mass shooting

Eighteen people have been killed and a further 13 injured in a mass shooting in Maine, the states governor has confirmed. This is a dark day for Maine, Janet Mills , the Governor of Maine, said at a press conference. This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens on its peace of mind. By a sense of security. No city does. No state. No people. Lewiston police have issued an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder for Robert Card, 40, and warn that he is armed and dangerous. Follow here for live updates and read all we know about the suspect here.

Rachel Reeves accused of lifting passages from Wikipedia for new book

Rachel Reeves has been dubbed the copy and paste shadow chancellor after her new book was found to include a number of passages from Wikipedia. The Women Who Made Modern Economics, a 288-page guide to overlooked female economists through the ages, was published by the Labour frontbencher on Thursday. But manual checks by the Financial Times found that more than 20 sections in Ms Reevess book appear to directly reproduce text from elsewhere without acknowledging the original sources.

Border Force sent to Egypt to help British citizens fleeing Gaza

UK Border Force officials have been sent out to Egypt to help evacuate British citizens trapped in Gaza who manage to get across the border, Rishi Sunak has announced. The Prime Minister said about 200 British citizens in Gaza had been in touch with the Foreign Office ahead of the expected Israeli invasion. Click here for all the latest updates on the conflict.



Israel briefing: Israel launches targeted raid into Gaza and Palestinian death toll rises to more than 7,000

Evening Briefing: Todays essential headlines

Crime | A Conservative MP has reportedly been arrested following an allegation of rape. The parliamentarian was interviewed by police in relation to the claim on Wednesday, according to reports. He was also said to have been questioned on suspicion of possessing controlled substances.

Pictured: Britains newly-crowned wonkiest pub

Carl Falconer has been going to Britains newly-crowned wonkiest pub The Tilted Barrel for about 40 years - ANITA MARIC/SWNS

A pub said to be Britains wonkiest after the Crooked House burned down has failed to sell at auction. The Tilted Barrel in Tipton, West Midlands, is a 15-minute drive from the site of the Crooked House, which was demolished in August after it burned down in a suspected arson attack.

Comment and analysis

World news: Watch Venezuelan police seize dozens of weapons in anti-gang prison raid

Venezuelan police broke into a prison in the north of Venezuela on Wednesday in a government anti-gang mission that sought to regain control of the jail. Footage shared by the government showed police deployed inside the cells and a display of seized weapons in the National Penitentiary Centre of Valencia, known as Tocuyito prison.

Feature of the day

The long, long shadow cast by the rise in workless households

The long, long shadow cast by the rise in workless households

The pandemic has reversed the trend for falling jobless numbers, sowing ravaging consequences.

Business news: Boohoo faces 100m modern slavery class action

Sovereign wealth funds and local councils are among a group of investors plotting a 100m lawsuit against Boohoo after allegations of modern slavery wiped more than 1bn from the companys value. The fast fashion retailer is being targeted by City lawyers seeking compensation for shareholders who suffered losses after allegations of forced labour in Boohoos factories came to light in 2020.



Live markets news: Christine Lagarde warns over impact of Israel-Hamas war on energy prices

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Eighteen people were killed in a mass shooting at a bowling alley and restaurant Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, and another 13 people were injured.

After an intense two-day manhunt, the suspect in the case, identified by police as 40-year-old Robert Card, was found dead of a self-inflicted gunshot wound Friday evening, officials said.

Here is a timeline of the shooting and manhunt:

Shooter arrives at bowling alley, restaurant

According to Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck, the shooting began shortly before 7 p.m.

Colonel William Ross, with the Maine State Police, said at a news conference Thursday that authorities received a 911 call reporting a man shooting at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, at 6:56 p.m. One man at the bowling alley said he heard about 10 shots.

At 7:08 p.m., dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting an active shooter inside Schemengees Bar and Grille, Ross said. The two businesses appear to be about 4 miles away from each other.

Maine Governor Janet Mills said at the news conference that in total, 18 people were killed and 13 injured.

Ross said that at the bowling alley, seven people were killed  one woman and seven men. All eight appear to have died from gunshot wounds, he said. At the restaurant, eight people were killed  seven men inside the restaurant, and one outside, also from apparent gunshot wounds, he said.

Multiple people were transferred to area hospitals from both scenes, and three of those people also died, Ross said.

Police warn of active shooter, issue shelter-in-place warning

At 8:06 p.m., Maine State Police said on Facebook that "there is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston," and said that people are being asked to shelter in place and stay inside their homes with the doors locked.

At 8:53 p.m., the Lewiston Police Department said on Facebook that they were "dealing with an active shooter incident" at the restaurant and bowling alley. They asked that residents of the area "stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospitals."

Police release surveillance images showing armed person

The Lewiston Police Department released images showing a person holding a semiautomatic rifle at 9:05 p.m. The three photos, shared on social media, show the person wearing a brown shirt, dark pants and light shoes. The person is not identified, and police asked that anyone who could identify the person to call authorities.

A person of interest in a mass shooting that killed at least 16 people in Maine. / Credit: Lewiston Police Department

"Vehicle of interest" found 8 miles away

The Lewiston Police Department shared a surveillance photo of a white vehicle on social media at 9:17 p.m. In the post, police said the front bumper of the car might be painted black, and asked that anyone who sees the car call the authorities.

At 11:57 p.m., Maine State Police said on social media that the car, which they called a "vehicle of interest," had been found in Lisbon, a town about 8 miles away from Lewiston.

According to previous reporting from CBS News, the car appears to match a description from the law enforcement bulletin about a vehicle Card was known to have been driving.

Police said in a bulletin released on Thursday morning and reviewed by CBS News that the vehicle of interest was a white Subaru Outback with a black bumper. The car is registered in Maine.

Police in Lewiston, Maine, released a photo of this car wanted in connection with an active shooting situation on Oct. 25, 2023. / Credit: Lewiston Police Department

Police name Robert Card as person of interest, then a suspect

The Lewiston Police Department shared a photo of Card on social media at 10:52 p.m. and said he was a "person of interest" in the shooting. Police noted that Card should be considered "armed and dangerous" and asked that anyone who sees him contact officials.

At 11:57 p.m., the Maine State Police said that authorities were "currently searching" for Card.

"If seen, people should not approach Card or make contact with him," the department said.

According to a Maine law enforcement bulletin seen by CBS News, Card is enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve. CBS News confirmed that he is a Petroleum Supply Specialist in the Army Reserve, and has seen no combat deployments since enlisting in 2002. Card had recently reported mental health issues, including hearing voices, and had threatened to shoot up the National Guard base in Saco, according to the law enforcement bulletin. He has an active military ID, which allows him access to military bases.

Card was reported to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this summer, according to the bulletin.

Card has connections to Massachusetts, according to CBS News Boston sources, although the exact nature of his ties to the state were not immediately clear. Massachusetts State Police and federal agents were staged at the Maine border, with others staged along the New Hampshire border, as a precaution. Canada's Border Services Agency issued an "armed and dangerous" alert to its officers along the U.S.-Canada border, according to the Canadian Press.

Ross said that the vehicle of interest is registered to Card. According to the bulletin, Card has two other vehicles registered to him: a 2022 Yamaha motorcycle and a 2019 Sea Doo green boat. Both are registered in Maine.

In their news conference Thursday morning, officials referred to Card as a suspect and said murder charges are being filed.

Ross, the colonel with the Maine State Police, said that an arrest warrant charging Card with eight counts of murder has been issued. Ross said more counts will likely be added as the victims are positively identified.

Shelter in place is expanded, and then lifted

In the 11:57 p.m. post, the Maine State Police said the shelter in place order was being extended to Lisbon, where the vehicle of interest was found, because police in the area were looking for Card.

At 6:13 a.m. on Thursday morning, the state police said they are expanding the shelter in place to include the town of Bowdoin, Maine, where Card is from.

The city of Auburn, which borders Lewiston, has also advised residents to shelter in place.

Numerous schools in the area are closed, according to CBS affiliate WGME-TV, including in Portland, Maine.

In the Thursday morning news conference, Lewiston Police Chief David St. Pierre asked that "the public to continue to be mindful of their own personal safety."

On Thursday afternoon, the Maine Emergency Management Agency tweeted that the shelter-in-place advisory was being extended to Androscoggin County and northern Sagadahoc County.

As the massive manhunt for the suspect continued, the police chief in Lisbon, Maine, just a few miles from Lewiston, advised people to contact authorities if they see anything suspicious in their areas.

"If something isn't right, if you look out in your yard and you're like, that door wasn't open or, you know, that trailer wasn't positioned that way, if you see anything suspicious, please call us because that's how we're going to be able to work together and be able to get to the bottom of this," Lisbon Police Chief Ryan McGee said.

At a news conference Friday evening, Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael J. Sauschuck said the shelter-in-place warnings were being lifted, but he encouraged residents to remain vigilant.

Manhunt ends with suspect found dead

Law enforcement officials held a news conference Friday evening to announce that the two-day manhunt was over.

Mike Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, said the suspect's body was found by law enforcement at about 7:45 p.m. Friday near the river in Lisbon Falls. He said the suspect died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills told reporters that she called President Biden to inform him of the news.

"Like many people, I'm breathing a sigh of relief that Robert Card is no longer a threat to anyone," Mills said.

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Eighteen people were killed in a mass shooting at two locations in Lewiston, Maine, on the night of October 25, Gov. Janet Mills said  an attack that prompted a manhunt across the region as local, state and federal law enforcement officials searched for a gunman.

After a two-day manhunt, the man authorities identified as the shooter, Robert Card, was found dead Friday evening, apparently from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was found near the Androscoggin River in the Maine community of Lisbon Falls  some 10 miles from Lewiston  state Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck told reporters.

Card, 40, was a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve, law enforcement officials in Maine told CNN. Before he was found dead, authorities had obtained an arrest warrant on multiple murder charges against him in connection to the shootings.

Heres a timeline of how the shooting and the manhunt unfolded.

Around 7 p.m. October 25: 2 shootings are reported

Authorities received the first report at 6:56 p.m., Ross said, when the Auburn communications center got a call that a man was shooting at the Just-in-Time Recreation Center, a bowling alley in Lewiston.

The initial 911 call from Just-In-Time Recreation, a bowling alley in Lewiston, came in at 6:56 p.m., Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said at a news conference on Friday.

Officers in plain clothes shooting at a nearby range heard the gunshots and responded to the scene immediately, Sauschuck said.

Lewiston officers arrived at the bowling alley within 4 minutes of the first call and state police officers arrived 11 minutes after the first call, according to Sauschuck.

At 7:08 p.m., authorities received multiple 911 calls about an active shooter at Schemengees Bar & Grille, Sauschuck said. State officers arrived at 7:10 p.m. and the first officers with Lewiston police arrived at 7:13 p.m., Sauschuck said.

A large law enforcement response from the multiple surrounding agencies assisted the Lewiston Police Department in trying to identify who this individual was and what was happening, Col. Ross told reporters. As you can imagine, this was a very fast-paced, fast-moving, very fluid scene, very dangerous scene that these guys and girls were going into.

The 18 people killed ranged in age from 14 to 76, authorities would later say. Seven were found at the bowling alley, Ross said. Eight were killed at Schemengees, with one victim found outside the restaurant. Three other deceased victims had been taken to local hospitals.

Nichoel Wyman Arel told CNN she and her daughter were headed home from a Girl Scouts meeting when they came upon the scene at the bowling alley, where she saw the lights of police vehicles and people running. She saw at least one person who looked to be covered in blood as well as children.

Looking back, that was probably the hardest part, is seeing just families, families pouring out of there, she said. And knowing that that happened in there while they were just probably trying to have a family night.

8:06 p.m.: Photos of a person of interest are released

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office confirmed it was investigating two active shooter incidents about an hour later, when it also released photos of a person of interest in a post on Facebook.

Those images showed a man walking into what appeared to be a bowling alley, holding a high-powered, assault-style rifle.

8:09 p.m.: State Police order people to remain indoors

Minutes later, Maine State Police said there was an active shooter in Lewiston, and asked members of the public to stay inside with their doors locked.

Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, state police said. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

8:26 p.m.: Neighboring city urges residents to shelter in place

Just before 8:30 p.m., city officials in neighboring Auburn similarly urged residents to shelter in place in an alert shared on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter. The city sits directly to the west of Lewiston, across the Androscoggin River.

ALL Auburn & Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock all doors & report suspicious individuals and activities to 9-1-1, the alert said.

9:17 p.m.: Police release image of a vehicle of interest

About two hours after receiving the first shooting reports, Lewiston Police released an image of a white vehicle in a post on Facebook, asking people to contact authorities if it was seen.

Maine State Police said the image showed a car belonging to a person of interest.

The image shared by Lewiston Police showed the vehicle, an SUV, with its lights on and its driver side door ajar.

9:20 p.m.: Card is identified as a suspect

Authorities identified Card as a suspect in the shooting and responders were given information about his vehicle, including a registration number, according to a timeline of events released by the Maine State Police.

An earlier timeline released by state officials said the Lewiston Police Department received a call at 9:26 p.m. identifying Card as the man in the photos released earlier that evening.

9:56 p.m.: Vehicle is found

Half an hour later, police in Lisbon - about 8 miles southeast of Lewiston - informed Lewiston police they had found a white Subaru at Pejepscot Boat Launch, per the states timeline. It was confirmed to belong to Card.

10:37 p.m.: Authorities find rifle in vehicle

Dozens of officers surrounded Cards vehicle, until tactical teams arrived and confirmed the suspect was not in it. Inside the car, authorities found a rifle and magazines, according to the timeline from Maine State Police.

10:52 p.m.: Authorities name person of interest

Lewiston Police later announced, again on Facebook, that it was trying to locate Card as a person of interest in the shootings at Schemengees Bar and the bowling alley.

CARD should be considered armed and dangerous, said the post included alongside an image of Card. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts.

Police are seen near Schemengees Bar in Lewiston, Maine, on Thursday, the morning after a shooting there. - Joseph Prezioso/AFP/Getty Images

Around 11:30 p.m.: Officials expand shelter in place order

Sauschuck held a news conference late Wednesday, beginning just after 11:30 p.m., where he said authorities were expanding the shelter in place order to include Lisbon, and the city separately confirmed around the same time that its offices would be closed Thursday.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case, to locate Mr. Card, who, again, is a person of interest, and a person of interest only, Sauschuck said.

The scale of the investigation was large, Sauschuck indicated, saying there were multiple scenes in the city, to include multiple hospitals. Investigators were following up on leads and speaking with witnesses, Sauschuck said.

At roughly midnight, October 26: Authorities begin notifying families

At about 12:01 a.m., authorities began notifying families of the victims who have been positively identified, according to the state police timeline.

3:13 a.m.: Shelter in place advisory expands to Bowdoin

Maine State Police early Thursday morning expanded the shelter in place advisory to include the town of Bowdoin, about 15 miles southeast of Lewiston and approximately nine miles east of Lisbon.

Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings, state police said in a post on Facebook.

By Thursday morning, a number of school districts had announced they would be closed due to the manhunt, including those in Lewiston and the public schools in Portland  the states largest city, some 35 miles south of Lewiston.

Hannaford Supermarkets, a major grocery store chain in the northeast, said it would keep all of its stores in Maine closed until at least 10 a.m.

7:45 p.m. October 27: Authorities find Cards body

Card was found dead around 7:45 p.m. Friday along the Androscoggin River in the Lisbon Falls area, about 10 miles from Lewiston, Sauschuck told reporters Friday. The body was found in an unlocked box truck in the overflow parking lot of a recycling center from which he had recently been fired, according to Sauschuck.

Two firearms were found alongside the gunmans body and police have concluded he shot himself, Sauschuck said.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills said she is breathing a sigh of relief tonight knowing that  Card is no longer a threat to anyone.

Now is a time to heal, Mills said. Tonight, the city of Lewiston and the state of Maine begin to move forward on a long road to healing.

CNNs Nouran Salahieh, Andy Rose, and Zoe Sottile contributed to this report.

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Its almost time to change the clocks. Yes, again.

While dozens of U.S. states have proposed to keep either permanent daylight saving time (Sunshine Protection Act) or permanent standard time, no states have actually adopted a legislative change in 2023.

In fact, there has been no momentum at all.

Without new movement on proposed changes, Americans should expect clock changes to continue into 2024, according to the Sleep Foundation.

So, what does that mean for us right now?

Get ready to fall back, Mississippi.

When do Mississippi residents need to change their clocks?

Nov. 5, 2023, at 2 a.m. marks the official time to fall back for daylight saving time. This means clocks will fall back one hour at 2 a.m. local time.

What if it changes?

A change in Mississippis adherence to daylight saving will mean the Sunshine Protection Act has passed and the state will adopt permanent daylight saving time.

Other states that have proposed this include:

Florida

South Carolina

Alabama

Ohio

Louisiana

Tennessee

Georgia

Delaware

Minnesota

Colorado

Utah

Montana

Washington

Oregon

States that voted down legislation: Idaho, Kentucky, Arkansas, Connecticut, Nebraska, Maine, Maryland, New Mexico, Virginia and Wyoming.

Does daylight saving time have any benefits?

According to experts like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society, more daylight in the evening improves public safety and sleep quality; increases social and commercial interaction; and lowers electricity use.

Some have proposed that the additional light helps school performance, cuts down on crime and car accidents, and even improves mental health.

When did daylight saving time start?

Well, it all started with Ben. Benjamin Franklin.

According to the Farmers Almanac, Benjamin Franklins An Economical Project, written in 1784, is the earliest known proposal to save daylight. It was whimsical in tone, advocating laws to compel citizens to rise at the crack of dawn to save the expense of candlelight.

In the proposal, Franklin said: Every morning, as soon as the sun rises, let all the bells in every church be set ringing: and if that is not sufficient, let cannon be fired in every street to wake the sluggards effectually  Oblige a man to rise at four in the morning, and it is probable that he will go willingly to bed at eight in the evening.

But the person that brought it to Congress was a London builder by the name of William Willet around 1907.

Tips to adjust to the time change

When its time to fall back, you may feel the sun has abandoned you for the first few mornings and hit the snooze button entirely too often to take advantage of the dark. Well, the University of Mississippi Medical Center has a few tips for you:

Plan ahead by going to bed 30 minutes earlier than your usual bedtime a few days before the time change.

Put away your phone or computer at least an hour before bedtime.

Keep a bedtime routine and avoid long naps.

Avoid drinking coffee six hours before bedtime and avoid drinking alcohol in the evenings  both can interfere with sleep.

Whats your stance on daylight saving time? Comment below or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com




Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) struck back after Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) filed a measure to censure her over her condemnation of Israel. According to NBC News, Greene said on the House floor on Thursday morning that the resolution criticized Tlaib for antisemitic activity, sympathizing with terrorist organizations and leading an insurrection at the United States Capitol Complex. The insurrection Greene referred to was an Oct. 18 rally at the Capitol where hundreds of people gathered to demand a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. In a statement on Thursday afternoon, Tlaib said Greenes move was unhinged and deeply Islamophobic and attacks peaceful Jewish anti-war advocates. The demonstration was led by far-left Jewish advocacy groups such as IfNotNow and Jewish Voice for Peace. She later stated, I will continue to call for ceasefire, for the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid, for the release of hostages and those arbitrarily detained, and for every American to be brought home. Because the House is taking an extended break until next Wednesday, a vote wont happen until at least next week.

My statement on Marjorie Taylor Greenes effort to censure me. pic.twitter.com/dzUNflJPh2  Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (@RepRashida) October 26, 2023

Read it at NBC News

Read more at The Daily Beast.
If walk-through haunted houses are too tame for you, how about visiting a place thats actually haunted?

According to urban legend, Utah has its fair share of haunted locales. While this isnt a comprehensive list of everywhere someone has claimed to see a ghost in Utah, these five are some of the most popular and have several reports of the same supernatural experiences.

Related

1. Union Station, Ogden

Now home to several museums, this building was originally the Intermountain Wests junction for train travel, according to Visit Ogden. First built in 1869, it was rebuilt in a new location in 1889 but mostly burned down in 1923. Repairs began soon after, but after a railroad clerk was killed by falling debris, the building was completely rebuilt in 1924, per the Ogden City Council.

Additionally, several people were murdered in or near Union Station, according to Visit Ogdens list of paranormal locations in the city. There was also a train crash at the station in 1944 that reported 48 fatalities.

Given the list of people who have died at the station, its unsurprising that the place is reportedly haunted. Visit Ogden says the ghost of a woman who died in the train crash has been reported roaming the upstairs, and that several other spirits have appeared to move objects and otherwise haunt visitors.

You can visit the station for free during regular operating hours or take a ghost tour around Ogden to learn more about its haunted history.

2. Rio Grande Depot, Salt Lake City

Utah has another haunted railroad station south of Ogden in Salt Lake City. The Rio Grande Depot was built in 1910 but was no longer used as a train station after Amtrak relocated its trains to a different hub in Salt Lake, per Utah Humanities.

A ghost known as the Purple Lady reportedly haunts the station, per KSL. According to local legend, she lost her engagement ring on the tracks and was hit and killed by a train after she went to retrieve it.

Several employees of the Rio Grande Cafe, which operated out of the station until 2020, told KSL they had witnessed inexplicable activities at the depot that they attributed to the Purple Lady. These included flickering lights, water problems, objects moving overnight and even sounds and sightings of the lady herself.

The depot is currently closed to the public, per the Utah Department of Cultural & Community Engagement, but can be admired from the outside.

Related

3. Rock Canyon, Provo

Rock Canyon is another location with a slew of recorded deaths. In 1850, settlers new to the Provo area killed dozens of members of the local Timpanogos tribe after a disagreement, per Intermountain Histories. While it is now a popular location for hikers and rock climbers, several climbers have met their demise after falling in the canyon, ABC4 reports.

Hikers have reported seeing multiple ghosts in the canyon, including a hiker, a small child and the wife of the Timpanogos tribes chief, per ABC4. Only in Your State additionally reports that visitors have heard the sounds of drums beating and distant screams.

4. Old Tooele Hospital, Tooele

The original Tooele Hospital was built in 1873 as a residence and was repurposed as a senior citizens home in 1913 before becoming a hospital. When the current Tooele Hospital was built in 1953, the building reverted to a nursing home. Half of the building is now under new ownership and operates as Asylum 49, a haunted house.

Hundreds of people have died there, which is understandable given the buildings history as a hospital and nursing home. Reports of the deceased returning to haunt the building have circulated for years, per ABC4.

In 2011, the Travel Channels Ghost Adventures team visited the building to investigate claims that several members of the staff had seen three ghosts: a man in black, a woman in white and a small child.

You can go through the Asylum 49 haunted house during regular operating hours in the fall, or you can attend one of their special ghost hunts to explore the building on select nights.

5. Golden Spike National Historic Site, Corinne

This is the location where the Central Pacific and Union Pacific tracks connected on May 10, 1869, to create the first direct train route from the West to East coasts, per the National Park Service. Before the final golden spike was hammered into the track, this area was home to a bustling camp of railroad workers.

Since the spike completed the railroad, the area has become a national historical site, but it is also home to some supernatural activity, as the Deseret News reported in 1995. One visitor reported a steam locomotive speeding along the now-deconstructed tracks and hearing the disembodied voices of the laborers who had worked there.

The Golden Spike National Historic Site and visitor center is open five days a week if youd like to explore the area for yourself.

Related
(CNN)  Roughly 900 US troops have been deployed or are deploying to the Middle East amid heightened tensions in the region after a series of attacks on coalition bases that resulted in minor injuries for almost two dozen troops.

These include forces that have been on prepare to deploy orders, and which are deploying from the continental United States, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters on Thursday. Deployed and deploying units include a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery from Fort Bliss Texas, Patriot batteries from Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Patriot and Avenger batteries from Fort Liberty, North Carolina, and associated air defense headquarters elements from Fort Bliss and Fort Cavazos, Texas.

Ryder added that the deploying units would not be going to Israel and are intended to support regional deterrence efforts and further bolster US force protection capabilities.

The Pentagon previously announced the deployment of the THAAD and Patriot batteries.

As the war between Israel and Hamas continues, the US is seeking to send a strong message to adversaries to prevent the conflict spreading more widely in the region.

CNN has reported that the US has intelligence that Iranian-backed militia groups are planning to ramp up attacks against US forces in the Middle East, as Iran seeks to capitalize on the backlash in the region to US support for Israel.

Ryder said Thursday that between October 17th and 26th, US and coalition forces have been attacked at least 12 separate times in Iraq, four separate times in Syria, by a mix of one-way attack drones and rockets.

A total of 21 US service members have received minor injuries as a result of attacks between October 17 and 18, CNN reported Wednesday. Of those, 19  15 at Al Assad Air Base in Syria, and four at Al-Tanf Garrison in Iraq  have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI), Ryder said.

All have since returned to duty, he added, and there have been no injuries or no reported cases of TBI since the 17th and 18th of October.

An attack on Thursday, Ryder said, targeted Erbil Airbase and was unsuccessful with no casualties and some minor damage to infrastructure.

The announcement on Thursday comes after the Pentagon put roughly 2,000 US troops on prepare to deploy orders last week, which Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh said were focused on providing air defense, security, logistics, medical, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and transportation support.

That is in addition to US troops already in Iraq and Syria  roughly 2,500 and 900, respectively  and Navy assets that were announced to be heading to the region. The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group has been directed to the Middle East, and the USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group is currently in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Asked Thursday to explain the delay in response to attacks on US forces, Ryder said the US military maintains the inherent right of defending our troops and we will take all necessary measures to protect our forces and our interests overseas.

As it relates to these groups, again, we know that these are Iranian-backed militia groups that are supported by Iran, and of course, we hold Iran responsible for these groups, he said.
One person is severely injured after a tanker went up in flames Thursday afternoon on the westbound lanes of Interstate 595, causing a major traffic traffic disruption that lasted over seven hours, according to authorities.

Our crews are responding to the incident on I-595 Westbound at Nob Hill Road, Davie Fire Rescue Department said on Facebook. Davie Fire Rescue has transported one severely injured victim in critical condition from the scene by ground rescue.

The trucks driver sustained severe burns, according to reports.

Around 9:30 p.m., all westbound lanes reopened before the Pine Island Road exit after crews finished cleaning up the scene. The incident was first reported around 1:50 p.m.

Footage from @TotalTrafficMIA on X, formerly Twitter, showed at least three fire trucks were on the scene. Drivers were encouraged to take other routes and express lanes were being used to divert traffic.

7:24pm Ongoing road cleanup continues on 595 Westbound at Pine Island Rd https://t.co/a5GNP59Xh7  Total Traffic Miami  (@TotalTrafficMIA) October 26, 2023

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

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A convicted Tri-Cities rapist is expected to be sentenced to a life term after getting his third strike under Washington state law.

A Franklin County jury recently found Eddie James Davis, 42, guilty of attacking a woman in a Pasco motel room in July 2022.

While normally there would be a possibility of him leaving prison, a pair of early 2000s convictions will mean Davis never gets out.

The two convictions means Davis latest crime triggers the states persistent offender statute, more commonly known as the three strikes law.

Three strikes sentences are used for offenders convicted of three violent crimes, including first- and second-degree assault and first- and second-degree rape.

The law calls for a mandatory life sentence. The use of the sentence is relatively rare in Washington state  only 263 of about 12,000 incarcerated offenders are serving prison terms for third strike convictions.

He is scheduled to be sentenced Nov. 2.

Jury box in the historic courtroom at the Franklin County Courthouse in Pasco.

Davis has a lengthy criminal history that dates back to his teens, but the crimes that matter in this case happened when he was in his late teens and early 20s.

The first conviction for second-degree assault was when he was 18 in King County., according to court records. A Tukwila police officers report said he tried to hit an officer and shot at another while fleeing in a stolen car.

Two years later, Davis attacked a man outside a Pasco house, nearly causing the victim to lose sight in one eye.

Since those convictions, hes been in and out of prison but none of those convictions were considered a third strike.

Pasco motel rape

In July 2022, a woman reported she went to Davis hotel room at the Tahitian Inn in Pasco. He was an acquaintance.

Later, she was later contacted by police about an unrelated case, and she told the officer that Davis attacked her.

He was charged the next day and a jury found him guilty after a short trial last month.

Previous convictions

Davis has spent much of his adult life in and out of trouble with the law, starting when he was a juvenile with a conviction for third-degree assault in 1999.

The Franklin County Courthouse on North Fourth Avenue in Pasco

The first of his two second-degree assault charges came the next year when a Tukwila police officer spotted him driving a stolen Plymouth Voyager van.

Officers tried to stop the van as it pulled into a hotel parking lot. As police tried to surround him, Davis backed into a tree.

Officers thought he was going to get out and run, but Davis sped toward a Renton police car. The officer inside said she believed he was going to crash into her car but he narrowly missed the car and another officer.

According to court documents, Davis fired a shot during his escape. Later, the van turned up abandoned but police dog found Davis under nearby blackberry bushes.

He eventually pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without permission and second-degree assault.

His next conviction which counted as his second strike was for a second-degree assault on Ninth Street in Pasco in July 2002. Investigators say Davis attacked a man he knew from school when they saw each other outside a party.

The victim fell and Davis started punching and kicking him in the head and upper body, according to court documents. The victim said the attack was unprovoked.

Davis later pleaded guilty to assault in December 2002 and was sentenced to about 2 1/2 years in prison.

Since then, other convictions have ranged from a misdemeanor assault with sexual motivations in 2006, violating protection orders in 2009 and 2011 and third-degree assault in 2012 and 2019.

His longest sentence came in connection with a 2011 charge for violating a no-contact order. He was sentenced at the time to nearly five years in prison.
A judge hearing Donald Trumps New York fraud trial spent Wednesday wrestling with a quandary the political world long ago failed to answer: how to constrain the ex-presidents fury, tantrums and impulse to break all the rules.

And on an extraordinary day in court in which he was ordered to take the stand to explain his conduct, Trump may have gotten a glimpse of the future ahead of four criminal trials that will add a divisive twist to the election year.

The judge in New York dressed down once the worlds most powerful man and told him he was not credible  a reversal of typical power dynamics with Trump and a reminder that no one is above the law.

Trumps status as a defendant means he cant do and say whatever he wants  a dynamic that wont just play into the current trial but looks like the start of a pattern as the front-runner for the 2024 GOP nomination faces additional trials next year.

Two impeachments and an election loss might not have stopped Trump  partly because hes so good at stoking public anger, creating alternative realities and blurring the truth  but the fact-based environment of the courtroom might.

Trumps smoldering fury

Trump has appeared to be smoldering through much of this fraud trial, which could see his eponymous empire barred from doing business in New York. Judge Arthur Engoron ruled even before it started that Trump, his firm and adult sons had defrauded banks and insurance firms by inflating the value of his assets  which the former president has appealed. But Trumps frustration seemed to boil over in bizarre incidents on Wednesday.

First, Trump appeared to make a new attack on the judges clerk in defiance of a gag order. He remarked to reporters that Engoron was very partisan and had a very partisan person sitting alongside him. The judge called a hearing to probe the comment and ended up fining the ex-president $10,000 for breaching a narrow gag order prohibiting him from targeting court staff. Trump denied the accusation and insisted hed been referring to his former fixer, Michael Cohen, who also sat next to the judge during his testimony against his one-time boss.

It was not the first time Trump was fined for violating the gag order. Last week, he was slapped with a $5,000 penalty for not taking down a social media post attacking Engorons clerk.

Dont do it again or itll be worse, Engoron said, in the kind of rebuke that Trump  who has been the dominant figure in every room for decades  rarely hears.

The fines are a drop in the bucket for someone as wealthy as Trump, even if his fortune is not quite as large as he claims, which is an issue at the heart of this case. And these sums are unlikely to make a former president used to saying exactly what he wants pipe down. But it is a small taste of the consequences that the legal system could impose in several trials  over his business, his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, his hoarding of classified documents and a hush money payment to an adult film star  that will become entangled with his presidential election campaign during the next year. Trump denies wrongdoing in all pending cases.

Later, Trump turned on the histrionics again, storming out of the courtroom after the judge refused to dismiss the case based on seemingly inconsistent testimony by Cohen over whether his former boss asked him to inflate financial statements. Im leaving, Trump exclaimed and headed out the large doors of the courtroom. Engoron rejected the motion absolutely, contradicting the Trump teams claim that Cohen was the key witness. Theres enough evidence in this case to fill this courtroom, he remarked. (As CNNs Jeremy Herb and Lauren del Valle noted in a dispatch from the courtroom, Cohen later clarified that Trump didnt ask him directly but he implied it by speaking like a mob boss.)

Trumps habit of providing running commentary to reporters on the case, which is not televised, suggests that hes something of a nightmare client for attorneys. That dynamic could become a feature of his future trials and land him in even more trouble. But his behavior is consistent with his method of using his fame and high profile to shape perceptions. As lawyers try the case inside the courtroom, Trumps conducting his own public trial outside in the corridor. We are being railroaded here, Trump said Wednesday. This is a very unfair thing.

But unlike when he was a tycoon and president, Trumps outbursts cant get him what he wants because the customs of the court and the constraints of the law are impervious to emotional and political arguments. CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig said that an aggressive cross-examination of Cohen is fair game for Trumps legal team but that inconsistencies in testimony dont just end a case. It doesnt mean game over, lets go home, Honig said.

How courtroom defenses morphed into a political campaign

Trumps counter-narrative is clearly meant to bolster his broader campaign strategy of painting himself as a victim of a legal system weaponized by President Joe Biden to doom his 2024 White House bid. This has been a potent political weapon as he laps the field in the GOP primary and has helped him boost fundraising accounts that hes using to pay legal bills. Delivering his provocative one-liners also ensures Trump stays in the news and drowns out his campaign rivals.

Engoron is not the only judge trying to work out how to handle the rule-breaking Trump. Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is overseeing the federal election subversion trial in Washington, is having a similar problem. Shes temporarily frozen her earlier gag order  to protect witnesses, court staff and prosecutors from Trumps social media attacks  pending briefs on his request to pause the order while his appeal plays out.

But before initially imposing the measure, Chutkan had warned Trump that his status as a criminal defendant means there are limitations on what he can say about a case. He does not have the right to say and do exactly what he pleases, Chutkan told Trumps lawyers in court earlier this month. The ex-presidents team has responded to the dispute by arguing that Chutkan and the Biden administration Justice Department are seeking to silence him in order to squelch his presidential campaign.

Trump found support in a surprising corner in that case Wednesday. The American Civil Liberties Union and its Washington, DC, chapter filed an amicus brief in support of the former president, arguing the that the breadth of the order violates his First Amendment rights. But also on Wednesday, prosecutors asked Chutkan to reinstate the order, arguing in their filing that Trump has already resumed posting about potential witnesses on social media  pointing to his Truth Social post about former chief of staff Mark Meadows earlier this week.

Trump has demonstrated throughout a business and political career known for impunity that he can act and speak how he pleases. And now that sense of convention-busting entitlement is forming the foundation of his defense in his legal cases.

In the federal election subversion matter, for instance, Trumps team is arguing that that the ex-presidents efforts to overturn the election fell within the remit of his official duties and that he is therefore immune from prosecution for acts that took place while he was in office. Special counsel Jack Smith has pushed back, arguing that this would mean that a sitting president could behave in an illegal fashion in multiple ways while knowing that he was forever free from prosecution.

In office, Trump frequently argued there could be no checks on his behavior. When somebodys the president of the United States, the authority is total, and thats the way its got to be, Trump said at a coronavirus briefing at the White House in April 2020. And at a speech in Washington in 2019, he falsely claimed that a Constitution written specifically to prevent monarchial omnipotence gave him total authority. I have an Article II, where I have the right to do whatever I want as president, he said.

But Trumps half-baked constitutional arguments suggest that if he wins the presidency back in November 2024, a second term that he has promised would be about retribution would be even more lawless than his first. He has already warned hed use the legal system to go after his enemies.

There will be no guardrails, former Rep. Liz Cheney, a Wyoming Republican who effectively sacrificed her career by opposing Trump, told CNNs Jake Tapper on State of the Union on Sunday.

For now, Trump is finding that there are guardrails in the legal system. But if he becomes president again, all bets are off.

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Former President Donald Trump speaks during a break in his civil business fraud trial at New York Supreme Court, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in New York. The judge in Trump's civil fraud trial has fined the former president $10,000. The judge says Trump violated a limited gag order barring personal attacks on court staffers. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

NEW YORK (AP)  Donald Trump isnt used to constraints.

The former president ignores and antagonizes anyone who tells him no. He built a business  and later political  brand as someone who says and does what he wants, largely without consequence. Even after losing the White House, Trump remains accustomed to deference, surrounded by people who greet him with nightly standing ovations at his clubs and cheer his most outrageous lies.

But Trump came face-to-face with a new reality Wednesday when he was called to the witness stand and fined $10,000 for violating a gag order prohibiting him from attacking court personnel in his New York civil fraud case. Trump denied he was referring to a senior law clerk when he told reporters in the courthouse hallway that someone sitting alongside Judge Arthur Engoron was perhaps even much more partisan than he is."

Engoron wasn't having it.

I find that the witness is not credible," he concluded before issuing the fine. Minutes later, Trump stormed out of the courtroom in an apparent fit of anger.

The $10,000 holds little financial consequence for a wealthy defendant who flew to his appearance aboard a private jet.

But the courtroom drama previews the tensions mounting between Trumps competing legal and political interests as he vies for the Republican presidential nomination while facing a litany of criminal and civil cases. And it underscores how efforts to hold Trump accountable are testing the legal system in unprecedented ways as judges struggle with how to rein in the former presidents inflammatory rhetoric while balancing the free speech rights of a political candidate.

Its really a new frontier for the legal system, and the legal system is really struggling with how to control this man who has no respect for the rule of law, said Jimmy Gurule, a Notre Dame law school professor.

The court system has never encountered this type of defendant. Trump is not only a former president, but also the leading candidate for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. He has turned his legal fights into a centerpiece of his campaign while also painting himself as the victim of coordinated political persecution.

Lawyers typically tell criminal defendants to stay quiet, knowing prosecutors can use any utterance against them. But Trump has turned the camera-lined hallway outside the courtroom into his own personal campaign stage, holding impromptu press conferences multiple times a day as he enters and exits the room. He also broadcasts his grievances on his social media platform, where he regularly slams Engoron as a Radical Left Democrat controlled by New York Attorney General Letitia James and her Thugs.

Gurule said courts are hamstrung in trying to punish Trump the way they would normal defendants because of his position and personal wealth. A $10,000 fine is unlikely to deter someone as rich as Trump. And while Engoron floated the possibility of holding Trump "in contempt of court, and possibly imprisoning him for further violations, jailing an ex-president who is under Secret Service protection would present enormous logistical challenges, in addition to the grave political implications of putting a leading political candidate behind bars.

The absence of meaningful consequences raises questions about whether Trump's prominence has allowed him to exist under a different standard of law than other defendants, Gurule said.

Indeed, fines and the threat of jail havent deterred Trump yet. Just days ago, he was fined $5,000 for violating the same gag order, which Engoron imposed after Trump targeted his principal law clerk on social media. While Trump immediately deleted the post, the court later learned that a copy remained posted on his campaign website, which his attorneys called an unintentional oversight.

On Thursday, his lawyers asked the judge to reconsider the larger penalty given Trump's insistence that he was referring to his former lawyer and fixer, Michael Cohen, not the court clerk, in his hallway comments. Engoron agreed to take a fuller look at what Trump had said, but, after reviewing the video footage, stood by the fine.

But Trump, so far, has capitalized politically on his trials, plastering his mug shot on merchandise that has brought in millions of dollars and fundraising off every development, including Wednesday's fine. Trump fretted last week that his appearances in court weren't drawing as much media attention with the spotlight turned to the war in the Middle East and the House speakership debacle. But with the latest courtroom drama, he was once again making headlines, overshadowing his rivals and filling his campaign coffers.

For some people, this is what they like about Trump  that he doesnt back down, he pushes against others and he is his own master. But in the world of the courts, the rules are different, said Laurie Levenson, a former federal prosecutor and professor at Loyola Law School.

While Trump's tactics may have political benefits, they could also help prosecutors argue the former president believes hes above the law.

If he disregards orders of the court, then it may add to the argument that he was disregarding other laws as well, she said.

By his actions, hes messaging that the laws dont apply to me. And thats problematic because a good prosecutor  and I think Jack Smith is a good prosecutor  can use that at the right time against him, Levenson said, referring to the special prosecutor overseeing the federal cases against Trump.

Indeed, things are likely to get much more complicated for Trump in the coming months as his four criminal trials get underway. While the New York fraud case is a civil trial at which Trump has appeared voluntarily, he is likely to face far tougher restrictions and harsher punishments in his criminal cases.

In 2017, a federal judge in Brooklyn revoked the bail of pharmaceutical company CEO Martin Shkreli, who had been convicted of fraud, and sent him to jail after he went on social media and offered a $5,000 bounty to anyone who could get him a strand of Democrat Hillary Clintons hair. Shkrelis lawyers said he was just joking, but the judge called that offer a solicitation of an assault.

More recently, a federal judge in Manhattan revoked the bail of former cryptocurrency mogul Sam Bankman-Fried while he awaited trial on fraud charges after he gave journalists copies of the private writings of his former girlfriend, who was set to testify against him at a trial. The judge ruled that amounted to witness tampering.

Trump has so far seemed to abide by a separate gag order imposed by the judge overseeing his 2020 election interference criminal case in Washington. Trump has decried the order, which barred him from making public statements targeting prosecutors, court staff and potential witnesses, as unconstitutional and is appealing. But he waited until it was temporarily lifted Friday to resume his public attacks against Smith and label those who have made cooperation deals with prosecutors weaklings and cowards.

Prosecutors asked late Wednesday for the gag order to be reinstated, citing recent social media posts about Trumps former chief of staff that they said represented an attempt to influence and intimidate him.

Trump has also avoided inflammatory remarks against Judge Aileen Cannon, who is overseeing the case into his alleged hoarding of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago club, and whom he appointed.

In a typical court proceeding, a judge would likely be more concerned about whether a defendant has blatantly broken court rules, like trying to speak to jurors or threatening witnesses, than stray comments made outside of court about feeling like court personnel are biased. But Trump has an unparalleled megaphone, making his message potentially more dangerous at a time when judges are increasingly under threat.

The judge in Trumps hush-money criminal case, Juan Manuel Merchan, received dozens of death threats around the time of Trumps arraignment in April after the former president lashed out at him on social media. New York court officials have beefed up security for judges and court personnel involved in Trump matters in the wake of the threats.

In the current overheated climate, incendiary untruths can, and in some cases already have, led to serious physical harm, and worse, Engoron said upon fining Trump on Friday.

___ Tucker reported from Washington and Durkin Richer from Boston. Associated Press writers Michael R. Sisak, Michelle L. Price, Jake Offenhartz and Jennifer Peltz contributed to this report.



This story has been corrected to fix the spelling of the first name of Trumps former attorney. It is Michael, not Michal.
Ivanka Trump must testify in the $250 million civil fraud case against her father, brothers and family business, Judge Arthur Engoron rules. In Colorado, meanwhile, a district court judge rules that a case seeking to block Trumps name from appearing on state ballots can move forward.

New York financial fraud

Judge: Ivanka Trump must testify in civil fraud case against family father

Key players: Judge Arthur Engoron, former Trump Organization EVP Ivanka Trump, New York state prosecutor Kevin Wallace, New York Attorney General Letitia James, Ivanka Trump's lawyer, Bennet Moskowitz

On Friday, Engoron ruled that Donald Trump s eldest daughter, Ivanaka, must testify in the $250 million civil case brought by James against the former president, his adult sons and their family business, the Associated Press reported.

Ivanka Trump served as executive vice president of the Trump Organization through 2017, when she left that role and became an unpaid presidential adviser.

On Friday, Moskowitz told Engoron that New York prosecutors just dont have jurisdiction over her.

Wallace countered that argument, saying, She is 100% someone who can come in and testify.

In June, a New York state appeals court ruled that the claims James brought against Ivanka Trump exceeded the state statute of limitations, and dismissed the charges against her.

Her lawyers were given time to appeal his ruling.

Why it matters: Trump, his sons Eric and Don Jr., and his daughter Ivanka will now all be compelled to testify under oath in the case about whether they inflated the value of their assets to obtain favorable bank and loan terms.

Jan. 6 election interference

Judge rejects Trump bid to dismiss lawsuit that aims to keep him off Colorado ballot

Key players: Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace, Chief U.S. District Judge Philip Brimmer

Wallace ruled Wednesday that a lawsuit brought to keep Trumps name from appearing on Colorado ballots could continue, NBC News reported.

Trumps lawyers argued that Wallace should dismiss the lawsuit brought by six voters. It seeks to block Trumps inclusion on ballots because he allegedly violated Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by engaging in insurrection or rebellion in the wake of the 2020 election.

Lawyers for Trump argued Congress, not courts, are the sole arbiters on the question of eligibility.

In her 24-page ruling, Wallace disagreed, writing that the Constitution says nothing regarding what government body would adjudicate or determine such disability in the first instance.

Why it matters: The Colorado case, which has survived multiple legal challenges, is just one of several seeking to keep Trump off the ballot due to his apparent violation of the 14th Amendment. Those seem destined to land at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Recommended reading:

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Thursday, Oct. 26

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Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Robert Alexander/Getty Images, Spencer Platt/Getty Images, Getty Images (2)

In Washington, prosecutors on special counsel Jack Smiths team ask Judge Tanya Chutkan to issue a permanent gag order on former President Donald Trump, in part over a message posted on social media they say included a threat to his former chief of staff. In New York, Judge Arthur Engoron stands by his decision to fine Trump $10,000 for violating a gag order in his New York financial fraud trial.

Jan. 6 election interference

Citing 'threatening' message to Meadows, Smith asks judge to impose permanent gag order on Trump

Key players: Special counsel Jack Smith, Judge Tanya Chutkan, former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows

Citing a social media post by Trump that prosecutors said included a "threatening" message for Meadows, prosecutors asked Chutkan in a Wednesday court filing to impose a permanent and more restrictive gag order on the former president, ABC News reported.

Trump posted his message in response to media reports that Meadows had reached an immunity deal with Smith's office, agreeing to testify in exchange for avoiding criminal charges.

I dont think Mark Meadows would lie about the Rigged and Stollen 2020 Presidential Election merely for getting IMMUNITY against Prosecution (PERSECUTION!) by Deranged Prosecutor, Jack Smith, Trump wrote Tuesday on Truth Social. The post continued that those who would accept such deals were "weaklings and cowards."

The post, prosecutors wrote in their filing, was meant to "send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness in this case."

In their filing, prosecutors asked Chutkan for a more stringent gag order than the one she established earlier this month.

The Court should modify the defendant's conditions of release by making compliance with the [gag] Order a condition or by clarifying that the existing condition barring communication with witnesses about the facts of the case includes indirect messages to witnesses made publicly on social media or in speeches, Wednesday's filing stated.

There has never been a criminal case in which a court has granted a defendant an unfettered right to try his case in the media, malign the presiding judge as a fraud and a hack, attack the prosecutor as deranged and a thug, the filing continued.

Chutkan paused an a partial gag order on Trump designed to prevent him from attacking prosecutors, court staff and potential witnesses after Trump's lawyers appealed her ruling last week to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

Why it matters: As the Associated Press noted Thursday, while the use of gag orders for defendants in civil and criminal cases is not uncommon in American courtrooms, restricting the speech of those who are also running for political office is a novel test for the judicial system. If Trump is hit with more gag orders, more violations of them seem likely. Testimony provided by Meadows is certain to be a part of the prosecution's case against Trump.

New York financial fraud

Engoron refuses to revoke Trumps $10K fine

Key players: Judge Arthur Engoron, Trump lawyer Christopher Kise, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen

In court Thursday, Engoron stood by his decision to impose a $10,000 fine on Trump Wednesday for violating a limited gag order designed to prevent him from verbally attacking members of the judges staff, Reuters reported.

Kise asked Engoron to reconsider the fine, reiterating his clients position that he had been speaking about Cohen rather than the judges clerk when he told reporters, "This judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside of him."

Engoron reviewed videotape of Trumps remarks and concluded that it was clear Trump was referring to the clerk who sits next to the judge in the courtroom.

This is the second fine Engoron has imposed on Trump. The first, for $5,000, came after the former president attacked his clerk on social media.

Why it matters: While Trump routinely goes after Engoron in social media posts and in statements made to the media, the judge has the power to fine and jail him for violating court orders.

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Wednesday, Oct. 25

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Former President Donald Trump. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Drew Angerer/Getty Images, Getty Images)

Judge Arthur Engoron fined former President Donald Trump another $10,000 Wednesday for violating a gag order he put in place to prevent Trump from disparaging members of his staff. Following reports Tuesday that former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows struck an immunity deal with special counsel Jack Smith in exchange for providing testimony about Trump, Meadows casts doubt on that claim and Trump wonders aloud if it is true.

New York financial fraud

Judge questions Trump on witness stand, fines him $10,000 for violating gag order again

Key players: Judge Arthur Engoron, Trump lawyer Christopher Kise, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen

Engoron questioned Trump on the witness stand Wednesday about comments he made outside the courtroom that appeared in violation of a gag order imposed to keep him from disparaging the judges staff, Reuters reported.

During a break earlier on Wednesday, Trump told reporters, This judge is a very partisan judge with a person who is very partisan sitting alongside of him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is.

In court, Engorons clerk, who Trump attacked in a social media post that later resulted in a $5,000 fine, sits next to him.

Engoron asked who he was referring to with his latest comments. You and Cohen, Trump responded.

Engoron was not impressed. "As the trier of fact, I find the witness is not credible," he said, and issued a $10,000 fine.

After that, Trump angrily stormed out of the courtroom and the trial then continued.

Engoron, earlier on Wednesday, admonished Trumps lawyers over remarks the former president made outside the courtroom, the Associated Press reported.

Kise responded that Trump was referring to Cohen, who delivered testimony from the witness stand a short distance from where the judge sits.

Why it matters: Engoron, who has now twice fined Trump for violating the gag order, has also threatened to jail him if the attacks continue. Wednesdays altercation was yet another test of his patience.

Jan. 6 election interference

Meadows denies reports he accepted an immunity deal with federal prosecutors

Key players: Former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, special counsel Jack Smith, Meadowss lawyer George Terwilliger, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis

On Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter, ABC News published a story that claimed that Smith had granted Meadows immunity to testify under oath about his interactions with Trump in the weeks after the 2020 presidential election.

Bloomberg , citing their own source, confirmed that reporting, and both outlets noted that Meadows testified that he told Trump repeatedly that claims of widespread election fraud were not true.

But a lawyer for Meadows denied late Tuesday that his client had flipped on Trump, the Daily Beast reported.

I told ABC that their story was largely inaccurate. People will have to judge for themselves the decision to run it anyway. Terwilliger told CBS News .

In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed a measure of confidence that Meadows had not joined the ranks of those who have cut deals with prosecutors to testify against him, but seemed to acknowledge it was a possibility.

I dont think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows? Trump wrote.

Meadows has not been charged in Smiths federal election interference case, but he has been charged by Willis with multiple felonies in Georgia.

Why it matters: Perhaps more than any other person involved in the events leading up to and following the 2020 presidential election, Meadows witnessed Trumps efforts to challenge the election results. His testimony could prove decisive in the federal and Georgia cases.

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Tuesday, Oct. 24

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Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: John Bazemore-Pool/Getty Images, Alyssa Pointer/Getty Images (2), Getty Images (3).

Former Trump lawyer Jenna Ellis becomes the fourth defendant to plead guilty in Georgia over her role in the effort to illegally overturn the 2020 presidential election and promises to testify in the trials of the others charged. In New York, meanwhile, former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen takes the stand to testify against his former boss in the financial fraud trial of Trump, his adult sons and their family business.

Georgia election interference

Jenna Ellis becomes the latest Trump lawyer to plead guilty

Key players: Former Trump-aligned lawyers Jenna Ellis, Rudy Giuliani, Kenneth Chesebro, Sidney Powell and John Eastman. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, Judge Scott McAfee

Days after pro-Trump lawyers Chesebro and Powell pleaded guilty to election interference charges in Georgia and agreed to testify against other defendants, former Trump lawyer Jenna Ellis became the fourth defendant of 19 to cut a plea deal with Willis, Politico reported.

"If I knew then what I know now, I would have declined to represent Donald Trump in these post-election challenges," an emotional Ellis said Tuesday morning as she pleaded guilty.

Ellis admitted to McAfee that she had spread lies about election fraud in 2020 in multiple states to help Trump remain in power.

What I did not do, but should have done, Your Honor, was to make sure that the facts the other lawyers alleged to be true were in fact true, she said.

As with Chesebro and Powell, the terms of the plea deal will spare her from going to prison in the event she was found guilty at trial. Instead, she must pay a $5,000 fine, serve five years probation, write a letter of apology to Georgia residents and, most importantly, cooperate with Willis in the prosecution of others in the case.

In March, Ellis was censured by a judge in Colorado for promoting false election claims. Giulianis law license was suspended in New York over those same claims, and Eastman is in the midst of disbarment proceedings in New York for his role in the election subversion plot.

Why it matters: Ellis has firsthand knowledge of the actions of defendants like Giuliani and Trump and she will be compelled to testify against them.

New York financial fraud

Michael Cohen takes the stand as Trump looks on

Key players: Former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, New York Attorney General Letitia James, Judge Arthur Engoron

Cohen took the witness stand Tuesday in the New York civil trial that will decide the penalties Trump, his adult sons and family business must pay after being found liable for years of financial fraud, Insider reported.

Just feet away from Cohen, Trump sat at the defense table, watching his former longtime employee-turned-antagonist testify against him about claims that he inflated the value of his business assets in order to obtain more favorable loan and insurance rates.

"I was tasked by Mr. Trump to increase the total assets based upon a number that he arbitrarily elected, and my responsibility, along with [former Trump Org. CFO] Allen Weisselberg, primarily, was to reverse engineer" the value of the companys assets, in order to achieve the number that Mr. Trump tasked us, Cohen testified.

Cohen was sentenced to serve three years in prison for tax evasion and other crimes committed while working for Trump. In his 2019 testimony to the House Oversight Committee, he detailed allegations that Trump had routinely inflated the value of his assets, statements that James cited as the basis for her investigation.

Hes a proven liar," Trump told reporters about Cohen as he headed into court.

Why it matters: While Trump and his lawyers will continue to attack Cohens credibility, he is a central witness in two cases brought against the former president: the New York financial fraud civil trial and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Braggs criminal hush money payment case.

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Monday, Oct. 23

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Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Scott Olson/Getty Images, Stephanie Keith/Getty Images, Getty Images (7).

Lawyers for former President Donald Trump tell a federal appeals court Monday that he was not liable for defamatory comments made about writer E. Jean Carroll because he was president when he first said them. Following last weeks guilty plea in Georgia by lawyer Sidney Powell, Trump seeks to clarify their relationship. He is also preparing to confront his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen in a New York courtroom.

E. Jean Carroll defamation

Trump lawyers say presidential immunity shields him from having to pay Carroll for defamation

Key players: writer E. Jean Carroll, Judge Lewis Kaplan, 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

Lawyers for Trump on Monday presented their arguments that Trump should not be held liable for defamatory comments made about writer E. Jean Carroll because he was president at the time, ABC News reported.

Defendant-Appellee's conduct is not properly the subject of a civil damages claim since his conduct is shielded by presidential immunity. The District Court's rejection of this defense was clearly made in error, Trumps attorneys wrote prior to oral arguments Monday.

Trump is appealing a June ruling by Kaplan that rejected the presidential immunity claims, Reuters reported. In May, a Manhattan jury found Trump had sexually abused Carroll in a New York department store changing room and later defamed her.

The jury awarded Carroll $5 million in damages, but Trump then continued to make more defamatory remarks about her during a CNN Town Hall following the verdict. The second part of her lawsuit seeks an additional $10 million in damages, partly stemming from Trumps subsequent comments.

In July 2020, Carrolls lawyers argued, Trump waived his presidential immunity defense when his lawyers said Carroll was entitled to pursue her defamation lawsuit when the President is no longer in office.

On Monday, two of the appeals court justices questioned Trumps lawyers about why the former president had waited so long to raise presidential immunity claims, Reuters reported, given that the case had proceeded for so long.

Why it matters: Trumps second defamation trial is scheduled to begin in January. If allowed to go forward, it will decide how much more money Trump will have to pay Carroll.

Georgia election interference

Following Sidney Powell plea deal, Trump says she was not my attorney

Key players: Pro-Trump lawyer Sidney Powell, District Attorney Fani Willis, special counsel Jack Smith

Just days after Powell pleaded guilty to charges stemming from her role in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election results in Georgia, Trump sought to put distance between her and himself, NBC News reported.

"Despite the Fake News reports to the contrary, and without even reaching out to ask the Trump Campaign, MS. POWELL WAS NOT MY ATTORNEY, AND NEVER WAS," Trump wrote in a post on Sunday on Truth Social, his social media network.

As part of her plea deal, which will spare her from serving prison time in the Georgia case, Powell has agreed to testify in the trials of the other 17 people charged, including Trump.

Chesebro, who is credited with helping devise the alternate elector strategy to challenge the election results, has also accepted a plea deal and agreed to testify against other defendants.

Why it matters: Whether Trump hired Powell to represent him may ultimately be beside the point. She attended a White House meeting with the president and sued Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, claiming massive election fraud. Trump saw fit to promote a story about the lawsuit on his Twitter feed, Smith noted in his federal indictment of the former president.

New York financial fraud

Michael Cohen to testify Tuesday

Key players: Former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, New York Attorney General Letitia James, Judge Arthur Engoron, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg

Cohen, Trumps former lawyer and fixer, is expected to take the witness stand Tuesday and come face-to-face with his former boss, The Hill reported.

Cohen is one of Jamess star witnesses in the $250 million civil trial to determine the penalties Trump, his adult sons and their family business must pay after being found liable by Engoron for years of financial fraud.

In an interview this month with CNN, Cohen said everything that happened at the Trump Organization happened with the direct knowledge and at the direction of, and ultimately signed off by, Donald J. Trump.

Trump, who has attended much of the trial, told reporters last week that Cohen didnt have the guts to appear.

Cohen cited a preexisting medical condition as the reason he did not testify last week, adding that he was not afraid to testify as his former boss looked on.

Why it matters: Since serving jail time for tax evasion related to his duties when working for Trump, Cohen has become one of the former presidents fiercest critics. His testimony will be central in both the financial fraud trial as well as Braggs criminal case stemming from Trumps alleged $130,000 hush money payment to porn star Stormy Daniels.
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) shakes hands with Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.), the Republican candidate, after voting for Johnson during the election for House speaker on Capitol Hill in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Haiyun Jiang/The New York Times)

Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana had just survived a closed-door vote to end a tumultuous period of paralysis without a House speaker on Tuesday night and was celebrating with smiling and exhausted Republican colleagues.

Democracy is messy sometimes, he said, but it is our system.

But moments later, Johnson was confronted at a news conference about his own past role in American democracy, when he worked in alliance with former President Donald Trump to block the certification of the 2020 election.

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Boos rang out at the reporters inquiry. Johnson closed his eyes and shook his head. Shut up! Shut up! one congresswoman shouted. Next question, Johnson said.

Only hours earlier, the speakership bid of another candidate, Tom Emmer, the majority whip, had been felled amid a lobbying blitz from Trump himself. Among Emmers apparent apostasies: certifying President Joe Biden s election. His tenure as speaker designate lasted only four hours.

Then, on Wednesday, when Rep. Pete Aguilar, a Democrat, chastised Johnson for leading efforts to reject the Electoral College votes on the House floor in 2020, one Republican lawmaker shouted back, Damn right!

The back-to-back-to-back developments on Capitol Hill underscored not only the extent to which loyalty to Trump has become a prerequisite to taking power in todays Republican Party, but also how  2 1/2 years after a riot that left the Capitol covered with blood and broken glass  the greater sin inside the GOP is to have stood with the voters that day and certified the election of Biden.

Bottom line is the Trump wing of the House is dominant and has been dominant for some time, said former Rep. Charlie Dent , a moderate Republican from Pennsylvania. Dent called Johnson affable and bright but said the political takeaway was clear: A member of the Trump populist wing is now speaker.

Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, a Trump ally who filed the motion that took down former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy , beamed, This is what victory feels like, celebrating Johnsons rise on Steve Bannons War Room podcast Wednesday before the official floor vote. Gaetz called him MAGA Mike Johnson  the same moniker that the Biden campaign used hours later.

At a New York courthouse, where he and his company are on trial for financial fraud, Trump praised Johnson. I think hes going to be a fantastic speaker, the former president said Wednesday.

The internal politics of House Republicans do not revolve solely around Trump. The former president had publicly backed Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio for speaker this month, only to see him blockaded by a more moderate faction in the conference.

But the end of the three-week paralysis shows that the party remains yoked to the former presidents election denialism, with Johnsons selection by his Republican colleagues coming on the same day that one of Trumps former lawyers tearfully pleaded guilty in a Georgia racketeering case related to Trumps attempts to overturn the election.

If I knew then what I know now, I would have declined to represent Donald Trump in these postelection challenges, said Jenna Ellis, a once-combative Trump attorney who is now cooperating with Trumps prosecutors. Prosecutors struck deals with two other Trump figures, Sidney Powell and Kenneth Chesebro, in the past week.

It was a different story on Capitol Hill.

With Trump dominating polls in the 2024 presidential primary  and even his top rivals staying relatively silent on his election fraud falsehoods  the party appears content to look past the fact that many of the partys most prominent election deniers lost in key swing states such as Arizona and Pennsylvania in the 2022 midterm elections.

For many Republicans, the primary victories that preceded those defeats are as politically significant. Last year, Trump sought to methodically cleanse the party of his critics, especially those who had voted to impeach him after the Jan. 6 riot. He mostly succeeded: Only two of the 10 House Republicans who voted to impeach him survived.

In contrast, Johnson served on Trumps impeachment defense team. And before that he recruited House Republicans to sign onto a legal brief to object to the outcome of the 2020 election. When that failed, he had played a key role in articulating a rationale for Republican lawmakers to oppose certification of the 2020 results on the floor. His guidance did not directly echo Trumps wild allegations and was narrower in scope, but it led to the same final vote.

We know now its too high of a hurdle to be directly criticized by Donald Trump and still become speaker, said Kevin Sheridan, a veteran Republican strategist. Referring to Johnson, he added, He seems to have found the right temperature for the porridge so far.

But Jenna Lowenstein, executive director of Informing Democracy, a nonprofit devoted to vote counting and election certification, said she was very concerned about Johnsons ascent.

As a member of the House, Johnson was willing to use the powers of his office to try to obstruct a fair election and interfere with certification, she said. And we have to assume he would do the same with the broader powers of the speakership.

Johnson has served as vice chair of the Republican conference and was previously the chair of the conservative Republican Study Committee. He is initially expected to be a more policy-minded leader than McCarthy, who was best known for his backslapping personality. McCarthy also objected to certifying the election and visited Trump in Mar-a-Lago only weeks after the attack on the Capitol, in a trip that was widely seen to restore some legitimacy to the former president.

An evangelical Christian, Johnson has vocally opposed abortion and gay marriage. (During the roll call vote in which he was elected as speaker, Rep. Angie Craig, D-Minn., pointedly declared, Happy wedding anniversary to my wife! to Democratic applause.) Democrats were quick to highlight some of his hard-line stances.

Elected to the House in 2016, the same year that Trump won the presidency, Johnson, a former constitutional law attorney, will have the least years of House experience of any speaker in many decades. But he is representative of the wave of House Republicans who have served in Washington only since the party was reshaped by Trump  and who are now a majority of the conference.

If you dont have a coup on your resume, Charlie Sykes, the Trump-tired editor-in-chief of The Bulwark, wrote in a column about the speakership fight, dont bother to apply.

c.2023 The New York Times Company
Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron on Thursday released a written order detailing why he determined Donald Trump's Wednesday sworn testimony denying that he attacked a court clerk "rings hollow and untrue" after he fined the former president $10,000 for his second violation of a partial gag order meant to protect courtroom staff.

The former president had claimed on the witness stand that he had been referring to his former lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen as the "partisan" sitting "alongside" Engoron when he spoke to reporters outside the courtroom on Wednesday. But the judge was unconvinced, deeming that excuse "not credible."

"Witnesses do not sit 'alongside' the judge, they sit in the witness box, separated from the judge by a low wooden barrier," Engoron wrote in the order, obtained by The Messenger. "Further, Donald Trump's past public statements demonstrate him referring to Michael Cohen directly by his name, or by a derogatory name, but in all circumstances, he is unambiguous in making it known he is referring to Michael Cohen."

He added: "Using imprecise language as an excuse to create plausible ambiguity about whether defendant violated this Court's unequivocal gag order is not a defense; the subject of Donald Trump's public statement to the press was unmistakably clear."

Chris Kise, an attorney for the former president, began Thursday's proceeding by challenging Engoron's order, insisting that Trump was deeming Cohen the "partisan" and not the clerk, The Messenger's Adam Klasfeld reported.

Kise further argued that, even if Trump were referring to the clerk Wednesday, he is "entitled to comment" on her as barring him from doing so "violates the First Amendment." He also mentioned that Trump observed the clerk taking notes on the defense's arguments.

"Everyone can observe the law secretary on the bench," Kise said, adding, "There's no attempt to shield that public fact."

Kise:



"Everyone can observe the law secretary on the bench."



[...]



"There's no attempt to shield that public fact."  Adam Klasfeld (@KlasfeldReports) October 26, 2023

The attorney general's counsel also came to the order's defense, noting that the First Amendment has limits and that the Washington, D.C. judge presiding over Trump's federal election subversion case also instated a gag order, which was paused after Trump appealed it.

"It's not naming anyone. It's not a post on the website. It's not a disparaging comment," Kise said, arguing that Trump does have a legitimate reason to comment on the clerk because of her role in the trial.

"Anybody can run for president. I have a right to protect my staff," Engoron responded. "I don't think that's impinging on anybody's First Amendment rights to protect my staff."

The judge defended his seeking the clerk's active input in the proceedings as "certainly within my purview and discretion" before asserting that he does not "consider this trial political at all."

Later in the proceeding, Engoron affirmed his sanction order after reviewing Trump's remarks to the press, responding to Kise's argument that Trump spoke about Cohen right after referring to the "partisan" by saying, "there was a brief but clear transition" before that comment.

The former president had his own choice words for Engoron, dubbing him a "Radical Left judge" and the case a "Complete and Total Miscarriage of Justice" in posts to Truth Social Thursday morning ahead of the hearing.

"The Radical Left Judge who should not be handling the FAKE & FULLY DISCREDITED CASE brought against me by the New York State A.G. (It should be handled by the Commercial Division, but should never have been brought!), fined me $10,000 yesterday under his so-called gag order," Trump began in the first post. "He is a judge that found me GUILTY before the trial even started, and long before he had the real facts, like Michael Cohen collapsing and choking yesterday under cross examination, and completely admitting that I did nothing wrong. He committed MASSIVE PERJURY, at a level seldom seen on the stand before. It was like watching the end of the best Petty Mason [sic] episode, where the defendant breaks down and cries, 'Yes, I did it, I did it, I did it.'

"This case should be ended, NOW, but this Judge and his 'boss,' Letitia Peekaboo James, will never let that happen," he continued. "He even refuses to accept our big win in the Appeals Court. It is a disgrace to the legal system in the State of New York. This is a RIGGED CASE!"

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The former president continued to attack the judge and, later, the attorney general in his second post, accusing Engoron of going "CRAZY IN HIS HATRED OF 'TRUMP.'"

"The Judge in the New York State A.G. case refuses to accept the overturning of his decisions by the Appeals Court. This is a first in the history of the State! HE HAS GONE CRAZY IN HIS HATRED OF 'TRUMP.' Also, their 'STAR' witness just admitted his statements were all a big lie. He broke down in court. The Radical Left Judge said he doesnt care," Trump wrote.

"He is trying to protect RACIST A.G. Letitia James, who has no case, lost the appeal, but has a tyrannical and unhinged Trump Hating Judge. She campaigned for A.G. on, I Will Get Trump, long before she knew anything about me," he concluded. "This is Judicial Misconduct, coupled with Prosecutorial Misconduct, and somebody from the State of New York must step in and stop this Complete & Total Miscarriage of Justice!"
Some major Republican donors who have spent much of 2023 looking for a Donald Trump alternative are increasingly open to one 2024 candidate: Donald Trump.

There is no doubt in my mind that Donald Trump will be the nominee of our party, said Ed Broyhill, a longtime GOP donor who was Trumps North Carolina finance chairman in 2020. The grassroots are a solid foundation for Donald Trump.

Earlier this year, Broyhill was considering supporting other candidates, like Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis or former Vice President Mike Pence . But he is now firmly a Trump supporter.

I have met with all the candidates, he said. None are close to the level of support Trump has.

Broyhill is part of a notable slice of donors who helped fund Trumps first two presidential campaigns but were, for various reasons, at least considering alternatives in the 2024 primaries. However, members of the group have started to once again write checks for Trump in recent months.

Among the biggest names on the list: Oklahoma oil and natural gas magnate Harold Hamm, who before having a falling out with Trump was once considered one of his top advisers on energy policy. Hamm previously contributed to former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, and he co-hosted an Oklahoma City fundraiser for DeSantis this year.

Kristin Thomas, the chief communications officer at Hamm's Continental Resources, said his more recent contribution to Trump shouldn't be seen as a shift in his position.

"He has supported a wide slate of candidates that he believes would make a good president," Thomas said. She added that "nothing has changed."

South Carolina hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, a past Trump supporter, gave to DeSantis and Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina this year before he cut Trump a check last month, Federal Election Commission records show. And Susan and Howard Groff, who were among Trumps biggest California donors in 2020, gave to DeSantis, Pence and Scott this year before they wrote a check to Trump in late August.

Trumps few wealthy allies left in the business community have been working the phones and having meetings with distanced donors about coming back into the fold. New York Jets owner Woody Johnson and those close to him have been among the Trump allies lobbying those once-loyal donors, CNBC reported last month.

Among the latest targets of Johnsons allies is Trump administration Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, who, according to a person familiar with the event, recently hosted a fundraiser in the Hamptons in New York for Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, whom Trump has criticized in the past. Ross has hinted to friends that he could get more involved with the presidential election in the coming months, with Trump allies hoping he ends up helping Trump again, like he did during the 2016 presidential election, as The New York Times reported.

A person close to Trump said that top business leaders and big money donors have now resigned themselves to Trump as the nominee and will come home  but thought their support won't begin in earnest until after Trump starts winning some primary contests.

The movement doesn't mean the anti-Trump donor crowd has completely broken in favor of him: Just this month a group of major anti-Trump GOP donors, collectively known as the American Opportunity Alliance, summoned DeSantis, Haley and Scott to a gathering in Dallas, where they pitched themselves as the best Trump alternatives to secure the donors' financial support.

Its unclear whether any of those pitches moved the needle with the donor group or whether it would dent Trumps polling lead if they did. But what is notable about the moment is how it's demonstrating how open some Trump-skeptical donors are to once again raising money for him, according to interviews with donors and a review of campaign finance records.

The change in money flow is motivated, in part, by Republicans continued anger at President Joe Bidens economic policies and how he has responded to the terrorist attacks in Israel. Ultimately, though, it is underpinned by one unflinching instinct: They want the White House back, and they think Trump is going to be the nominee.

Why? It is easy, I want to win, said a GOP donor who has been a significant Trump supporter in the past but was looking at supporting other candidates, including DeSantis and Scott. The donor has been watching the polls as GOP voters stick with Trump. "They are moving back to President Trump, and I want to win.

The person, who said a motivating factor for seeking a Trump alternative is his legal troubles, has since moved past that heartburn in part because of what they see as an underperforming Republican field.

A policy adviser to Republican donors said some had entered the 2024 presidential cycle cautiously. Instead of committing to Trump early, they had their family offices meet with a variety of candidates.

But the source said a shift had taken hold. They have realized it is Trump or bust, he said.

Andrew Romeo, a spokesperson for DeSantis' campaign, said Trump is on the hunt for donor help because DeSantis is pushing him in Iowa and Nevada.

"Unlike others, were playing to beat Donald Trump and have the resources and organization to do it," Romeo said. "Thats why the former president is scrambling to counter the inroads the governor is making in the early states  especially Iowa.

The 2024 financial picture

No single donor will be decisive in a presidential race awash with money. But Trump has already been outperforming his rivals financially, primarily thanks to better small-donor support.

He raised $24.5 million from July through September, besting second-place DeSantis, whose campaign raised $11.2 million. During the same three-month fundraising period, Haley's campaign raised $8.2 million, while Scott's raised $4.6 million.

Trump has $36 million in campaign cash on hand to spend on the primaries, his campaign said, while Scott finished the third quarter with $11.6 million available, Haley had $9.1 million, and DeSantis had $5 million on hand for the primaries.

Buried in the quarterly reports are the names of significant Republican donors who months earlier were writing checks to Trumps primary opponents, most notably DeSantis, the next-strongest fundraiser. Over the past three months, nearly two dozen donors who had previously given at least $1,000 to DeSantis started writing checks for Trump, including people with longtime reputations as significant GOP rainmakers.

The movement among donors checking out the 2024 field isnt one-way. Since May, roughly a dozen donors who had contributed to Trump also gave money to DeSantis, though those contributors tended to be smaller donors.

Not all of them, however: Take telecommunications mogul Kenny Troutt and businessman Doug Deason, both major GOP donors from Texas who have supported Trump in the past. They have each contributed to both DeSantis and Trump this election cycle, but their most recent contributions have gone to DeSantis. Both also hosted fundraisers for DeSantis this year.

The campaign finance reports made public this month include only contributions directly to campaigns, which are capped at $3,300 per election, so its unclear whether the donors have recently written much larger checks to outside super PACs. The super PACs backing the presidential candidates don't have to file reports covering the second half of 2023 until Jan. 31.

Ed McMullen, who was the Trump administrations ambassador to Switzerland and is raising money for his campaign, said he is starting to get more phone calls from donors who want Trump to know they are back on board.

Absolutely, multiple donors who were very large contributors  Im talking DeSantis supporters and Haley supporters  are coming around, he said. Overwhelmingly, they are savvy donors who are smart, wealthy people. They have concluded that putting money into this primary is a waste of money.

A longtime DeSantis donor, asked whether they are now likely to support Trump, said: I have for sure. A lot of traditional money is beginning to move to Trump."

The reality of the situation was clearly outlined in a memo crafted this month by Rob Collins, a co-chair of Trust in the Mission PAC, a pro-Scott super PAC. The group canceled millions of dollars in TV ad reservations and cited one reason: Trumps massive lead.

We arent going to waste our money when the electorate isnt focused or ready for a Trump alternative, the memo read. We have done the research. We have studied the focus groups. We have been following Tim on the trail. This electorate is locked up and money spent on mass media isnt going to change minds until we get a lot closer to voting.

That sense was felt firsthand by one of the major donors who was considering a Trump alternative earlier in the election cycle when attending the first GOP presidential primary debate in Milwaukee.

When we were in the SUV from the airport, the driver turned to us and said, Its nice you brought your son, but you know the big guy isnt here?' the person said. I knew what he meant.

CORRECTION (Oct. 26, 2023, 8:57 a.m. ET): A previous version on this article misstated the recipients of contributions from Republican donor Scott Bessent in 2023. He gave to Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Sen. Tim Scott and former President Donald Trump, but not former Vice President Mike Pence.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
Former President Donald Trump slammed witnesses who would flip on him as cowards and weaklings just hours after reports said ex-chief of staff Mark Meadows answered some of special counsel Jack Smiths questions in exchange for limited immunity in the federal Jan. 6 case.

While casting doubt on whether Meadows is actually cooperating, Trump said prosecutors are using improper threats and promises of lenient treatment to bully his acolytes into turning on him in court.

Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, Trump said on his social media site. I dont think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?

Trump added that Meadows repeatedly told him and said publicly that the 2020 election was rigged, despite reportedly telling the grand jury the opposite.

Mark Meadows NEVER told me that allegations of significant fraud (about the RIGGED Election!) were baseless, Trump said. He certainly didnt say that in his book!

Trumps statements skirt perilously close to witness tampering or violating the limited gag order by U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan against targeting potential witnesses in the case.

The judges order, which was stayed pending appeals court review, came after Smith complained that Trump is seeking to intimidate witnesses, along with public officials, and poison the jury pool.

Trumps outburst came as ABC News added important details to the story published Tuesday about Meadows answering questions from Smiths prosecutors before the federal grand jury investigating the alleged plot to overturn the 2020 election.

The story on Wednesday included clarification that Meadows answered questions only about whether Trump really believed the election was stolen from him in exchange for prosecutors agreeing not to use his answers against him in any future prosecution.

Contrary to some claims, that means Meadows has not agreed to cooperate with Smith and answer all his questions about other aspects of the alleged plot. It also means Meadows has not received any pledge that he would not face prosecution or avoid prison time if convicted.

Aside from the question whether Trump knew he lost to President Joe Biden, Meadows was at the center of many key charges against Trump.

Meadows was a key figure in the effort to create bogus slates of pro-Trump electors, helped in trying to bully Vice President Mike Pence into joining the effort to overturn the election and was by Trumps side on Jan. 6 as a crowd of violent extremist supporters stormed the Capitol.

Meadows is still facing charges as one of Trumps co-conspirators in the Georgia state racketeering election conspiracy case. Trump is charged with engineering a wide-ranging plot to steal the election in the Peach State and nationwide.

So far, four of their co-defendants, including three former Trump lawyers, have agreed to plead guilty and testify against Trump and the others in that case, a sign that the noose is tightening around Meadows and the former president.

_____
In this time of war, the health ministry in Gaza has been given its own health warning. Joe Biden has questioned the reliability of its reporting of the number of people killed and wounded during the Israeli assault on Gaza  because the health ministry is run by Hamas.

I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. Im sure innocents have been killed, and its the price of waging a war. the US president said. But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.

On Thursday, the ministry said the Israeli bombing of Gaza had killed 7,028 Palestinians, including 2,913 children, in the nearly three weeks since Hamas killed about 1,400 Israelis and abducted more than 200 others in its cross-border attack.

In a move to head off allegations of fabrication, the ministry also issued a 212-page list of the names and identity numbers of every Palestinian it says has been killed in the Israeli bombardment.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations called on Biden to apologise for his shocking and dehumanising remarks.

The councils director, Nihad Awad, said: Journalists have confirmed the high number of casualties, and countless videos coming out of Gaza every day show mangled bodies of Palestinian women and children and entire city blocks levelled to the ground.

President Biden should watch some of these videos and ask himself if the crushed children being dragged out of the ruins of their family homes are a fabrication or an acceptable price of war. They are neither.

Luke Baker, a former Reuters bureau chief in Jerusalem, is among those calling on news organisations to show scepticism.

It seems obvious that any self-respecting news organisation would make clear that Gazas health ministry is run by Hamas. Hamas has a clear propaganda incentive to inflate civilian casualties as much as possible. Im not denying there are civilians being killed, Baker posted on X.

Others say the ministry has a track record of reliable casualty figures and that it has fallen victim to the propaganda war as Israel seeks to minimise the consequences of its hundreds of bombing raids on Gaza.

In the past, the US state departments annual human rights report indirectly relied on the same ministrys casualty figures in quoting UN statistics drawn from Palestinian data.

Omar Shakir, the Israel and Palestine director at Human Rights Watch, said he saw no evidence that the numbers were being manipulated.

We have been monitoring human rights abuses in the Gaza Strip for three decades, including several rounds of hostilities. Weve generally found the data that comes out of the ministry of health to be reliable, he said. When we have done our own independent investigations around particular strikes, and weve compared those figures against those from the health ministry, there havent been major deviations.

Their numbers generally are consistent with what were seeing on the ground in recent days. There have been hundreds of airstrikes per day in one of the most densely populated areas of the world. Weve looked at satellite imagery. Weve seen the number of buildings, and the numbers that are coming out are in line with what we would expect with what were seeing on the ground. So you put all those things together and were quite confident in the overall casualty numbers.

Shakir said a grey area was differentiating combatants from civilians among the dead, but the large proportion of women and children killed was indicative of high civilian casualties. He also said there was a need to draw a distinction between the immediate casualty numbers that came out quickly on any given day and those compiled over time, when there was more clarity.

Questioning of the reliability of the Gaza health ministrys numbers follows the dispute over who was responsible for a large explosion at al-Ahli Arab hospital, and how many died in it. The ministry claimed there were at least 500 deaths in an Israeli airstrike. Later accounts suggested that a misfired Islamic Jihad rocket aimed at Israel was responsible and that there was a lower death toll, of between 100 and 300 people, although a final figure has not been settled on.

However, Shakir and others said estimates of death tolls immediately after an attack should be distinguished from calculations based on recorded data.

Gaza health ministry casualty figures have historically tended to be reliable, in part because the names of the dead are carefully documented and the deaths tend to be well known in the territorys tightly knit communities.

Shakir said: Generally this data is catalogued in a way that there are detailed breakdowns that include identifying information about each person. Thats part of why we believe this to be reliable.

Related: Queen Rania of Jordan condemns wests silence over Israeli bombing of Gaza

A UN official who declined to be publicly identified said his agency had used and checked Gaza health ministry data for years. I have seen nothing that says to me they are making the numbers up. We looked at some of the Israeli bombings and the numbers of deaths the ministry is claiming for a particular attack are broadly in line with what we have seen in previous wars.

He said the reason for the higher overall casualty figures was that the attacks were much bigger than anything weve seen in previous wars. Its not that theyre inflating the numbers.

Shakir said the health ministry had got caught up in the broader battle for public opinion in which Israel has faced its own accusations of manipulating casualty figures to downplay civilian deaths and of falsely claiming that unarmed Palestinians killed by the army in the West Bank were combatants.

Unfortunately, when reality is too difficult to stomach, Israel and so many of its allies prefer to deny it or bury their head in the sand, Shakir said. As long as they can create a fog of war and misinformation about whats taking place, it provides cover for this to continue. To continue to have 100-plus Palestinian children killed every day.
Iowa Citys Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission is asking the city council to remove one of its members after he allegedly tried to light himself on fire and threw his ankle monitor in the trash.

Eric Harris, 44, is being held in the Johnson County jail for allegedly attempting to flee to Chicago before a hearing last month. Truth and Reconciliation Commission bylaws allow recommended removals after six absences or three unexcused absences. The board voted unanimously, 5-0, to approach city council and ask for Harris' removal.

Commission members did not discuss the recommendation before they voted on it. Wednesday's meeting opened with a vote to recommend Harris' removal before transitioning to its work with local and national facilitators.

Harris was first appointed to the TRC in 2020, but he has been absent from every commission meeting since March because of the pending charges against him. The commission, originally founded by the City Council in the wake of racial unrest across the country, has worked for years to deliver on its original goals.

The initial mission statement says the commission is supposed "to bear witness to the truth of racial injustice in Iowa City and to carry out restorative justice, through the collection of testimony and public hearings," providing input and serving in an advisory role for the city council and other city offices.

The commission held a session Wednesday to learn more about stress and trauma, an education effort to aid the board's decisions.

More: Jack McCaffery accepts $1,000 fine, 180-day suspension of license in fatal May accident

Harris has had multiple run-ins with police in 2023

Harris' troubles began with an alleged incident in late March where police responded to reports of a man trying to light himself on fire.

Criminal complaints say officials found evidence that Harris allegedly tried to light a couch on fire with a blow torch. He also allegedly admitted to attempting to light himself on fire. Two children were in the residence at the time, according to police.

Harris was charged with child endangerment, an aggravated misdemeanor, second-degree harassment, a serious misdemeanor, and reckless use of fire or explosives, a serious misdemeanor. He pled not guilty in early June.

In late June, police say Harris approached a person at the same residence as the attempted fire and started a physical altercation, striking them in the head and allegedly causing minor head injuries. Authorities also found a small amount of marijuana on Harris' person.

He was charged with one count of domestic abuse assault, a serious misdemeanor, and one count of possession of a controlled substance, third or subsequent offense, a Class D felony.

A Johnson County District Court judge also issued no contact orders for the three residents of the south Iowa City residence where Harris had lived.

Harris was allegedly evicted from the Inside Out Reentry House in Iowa City on Sept. 29 for his behaviors, court documents said.

Police say they were informed that Harris had cut his GPS monitor on Sept. 30. It last "pinged" at the Trailways Bus Station on Court Street in Iowa City. Police say they tracked Harris' GPS monitor to a trash can near the station later that day.

Police then texted Harris, who admitted to fleeing Iowa City, saying he understood he would be arrested soon. He is charged with escape from custody by a person charged with a felony, a separate Class D felony charge.

Arraignment on the escape from custody charge is set for Nov. 6.

More: NCAA issues two-week delay on vote for potential changes to sports-wagering reinstatement guidelines

Controversy is another bump in the road for the commission

The commissions recommendation to remove Harris is the latest in a long line of turbulence for the commission, which has seen multiple chairpersons and members fly in one door and out the other since it was founded in 2020.

The first large scandal came as the commission endured a slew of resignations  four in the span of a few days in 2021  from the commissions first chairperson, Royceann Porter, the commissions first facilitator, Jesse Case, and two members.

In the summer of 2021, the commission, behind new chair Mohamed Traore, asked the council to approve $1,000 monthly stipends for each of the nine commission members in its budget.

The most high-profile controversy came when commission chair Amel Ali was embroiled in a scandal for comments she allegedly made about local officials, including Johnson County supervisor Royceann Porter, on a small podcast. Porter called for Alis resignation and the Iowa City city council spent weeks trying to decide on a course of action for the committee. Ali later resigned as TRC chair.

The commission had tried for months to figure out a facilitator role to work alongside the commission, eventually gaining council approval for roughly $400,000 in funding in early May.

Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01.

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: TRC recommends IC council remove Eric Harris amid absences, felony charges
ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkey's health minister said on Thursday that he had urged the World Health Organization to guarantee the provision of medical services to Gazans hit by the Israel-Hamas war, and that its efforts so far were insufficient.

The WHO defended its actions, saying it had been striving to get supplies into Gaza since the start of the emergency.

Israel has imposed a "total siege" on Gaza since a deadly cross-border incursion by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, and the Rafah crossing with Egypt, controlled by Cairo, has been the only route in for humanitarian aid.

NATO member Turkey has so far sent nine cargo planes of aid to Egypt for the Gaza Strip, and offered to set up a field hospital in Egypt to help treat the wounded and fly some to Turkey if necessary. It has condemned Israel's attacks on the Palestinian enclave and called for an immediate ceasefire to allow more humanitarian aid in.

Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said he had reminded WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a letter sent on Wednesday of the WHO's professional responsibility to help civilians in need and told him that its efforts should be "much greater than what you have done so far".

"WHO, with its responsibility of leadership and by taking necessary initiatives urgently, must ensure the safety of healthcare provisions in Gaza," Koca wrote in the letter, which he posted on X, formerly Twitter.

"WHO has, throughout this crisis, called for unimpeded humanitarian access for supplies and staff into Gaza, for the protection of health services, health workers and civilians, and for a humanitarian ceasefire," a spokesperson said in emailed comments to Reuters. Tedros had personally met with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi on Oct. 9 to request his support for getting aid supplies through the Rafah crossing, he added.

Turkey has toughened its criticism of Israel as the fighting and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have intensified.

Many of its NATO allies and the European Union consider the Hamas militants who run the Gaza Strip a terrorist organisation.

But on Wednesday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Hamas was a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands and people, while slamming Western countries for their support of Israel.

(Reporting by Tuvan Gumrukcu; Additional reporting by Emma Farge in Geneva; Editing by Kevin Liffey and Christina Fincher)
Pope Francis talks with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan during a private audience at the Vatican

ANKARA (Reuters) -Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan told Pope Francis in a phone call on Thursday that Israel's attacks on Gaza amounted to a massacre, and that the international community's ensuing silence was "embarrassing," the presidency said.

In the call, Erdogan said that all countries must raise their voice against the humanitarian crisis in the region, according to a statement by the Turkish presidency.

The call took place in the morning, following a request made by Erdogan, a Vatican spokesman said in a note.

"The Pope expressed his pain for what is happening and reiterated the position of the Holy See, hoping that the two-state solution can be reached as well as recognising a special status for the city of Jerusalem " the spokesman added.

(Reporting by Huseyin Hayatsever, additional reporting by Alvise Armellini in Rome Editing by Ece Toksabay)
Israel

The death toll among Ukrainians in Israel has risen from 19 to 21, with one more considered missing, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Oleg Nikolenko told NV in a comment on Oct. 26.

An additional three Ukrainians have been confirmed killed in Gaza, including two children aged 6 and 9, who perished on Oct. 24. Six more Ukrainians are confirmed to have been wounded, including three children. They are receiving medical care.

A total of 337 Ukrainians, including 208 women, have signed up for evacuation from the Gaza Strip, Ukraines ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniychuk, said on Oct. 23.

Read also: Israel's political challenges in the war with Hamas

The Foreign Affairs Ministry (MFA) reported that 357 Ukrainians, have expressed a desire to evacuate from Gaza in total, and Ukrainian diplomatic missions are in constant contact with them.

The Rafah checkpoint on the border with Egypt is currently closed, making it impossible to leave.

The MFA and its partners are working with the parties involved to obtain permission for people to leave as soon as possible.

War in Israel

Large-scale hostilities in Israel began on Oct. 7. From the early morning, the Palestinian militant group Hamas repeatedly targeted the country with thousands of rockets and missiles. Armed Hamas militants then invaded southern Israel, killing people and taking hostages.

In response to the Hamas attack, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched Operation Iron Swords, striking the Gaza Strip. During the night of Oct. 8, Israel announced the restoration of control over the majority of the populated areas that had been attacked by Palestinian militants.

Israels Cabinet has declared a state of war for the first time since 1973, and the countrys prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has warned that the war will be long and challenging.

The IDF announced that it had regained full control of the border with the Gaza Strip on Oct. 10.

On Oct. 15, the New York Times wrote that Israel had postponed the start of a ground operation in Gaza, which had been planned for the weekend, due to unfavorable weather conditions.

Over 1,400 people have lost their lives in recent attacks by Hamas. More than 200 are thought to have been taken hostage by Palestinian militants. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed more than 3,400 people, according to Hamas-controlled Palestinian ministries.

Hamas has also accused Israel of striking the Al-Ahli hospital in the Gaza Strip on Oct. 17 and killing hundreds of people inside.

According to the IDF, the deaths at the Al-Ahli hospital were caused by a misfire of a rocket launched by the Islamic Jihad, another anti-Israeli organization operating in Gaza. Neither claims have been independently verified.

On Oct. 17, the United States and Israel announcement an agreement on a prospective plan to provide humanitarian aid to civilians in the Gaza Strip.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Compared to the shitshow that went down last year, TwitchCon Las Vegas was largely a success. The problem? Nobody liked Las Vegas.

This years TwitchCon appeared to mitigate last years crowding issues and concluded without any foam pit tragedies. The fraught relationship between Twitch and its streamers is on the mend after the company opened the event by announcing that it now allows simulcasting, so that streamers can stream on multiple other platforms at the same time. Attendees gushed about the overall positive energy at the convention, posting that it actually feels like Twitch is back. Livestreaming competitor Kick haunted TwitchCon with its nearby gaming lounge, but that didnt put a damper on TwitchCons good vibes. There was even a gay engagement onstage!

I cant believe I pulled this off  what an amazing moment I will remember forever. Thank you Twitch  https://t.co/Jx0k0Q2OsZ  Lowco @ TwitchCon (@LowcoTV) October 20, 2023

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The generally positive consensus comes after a tense year for Twitch, punctuated by rounds of layoffs and unpopular policy changes. Dan Clancy , who had served as the companys president since 2019, took the reins from Twitch co-founder Emmett Shear earlier this year, ending Shears 16-year tenure as CEO. Clancys leadership was initially met with trepidation; after meeting him at TwitchCon last year, streamer Jakenbake described him as out of touch with what streamers need and want.

Clancy appears to have made it up to the streamer community in time for this years event. Lowco, the streamer who proposed to her girlfriend onstage during TwitchCons opening ceremony, praised Twitch for improving its communication and transparency, and told TechCrunch that Clancy engaged with streamers all weekend. To run Twitch, she said, you really need to understand the culture.

Theres a reigniting feeling that we as creators are being heard and can be a part of Twitchs decision making process, Lowco told TechCrunch. Dan Clancys presence this year made a tremendous impact on the atmosphere. He was everywhere, taking pictures, listening to creators, IRL streaming and truly being part of the TwitchCon experience.

But it wouldnt be TwitchCon without some grumbling. Though attendees said Twitch itself had improved, many expressed frustration about the events location. The convention took place on the Las Vegas Strip, an area thats expensive, not walkable and lacks spaces to casually hang out with other streamers.

I think most of us agree TwitchCon Vegas felt very positive in a way that hasnt been felt in some time, Lowco posted on X (formerly Twitter). But also we are positive we dont want TwitchCon to be in Vegas again. Lol.

Its the first North American TwitchCon to be held outside of California since Twitchs inaugural convention in 2015. Las Vegas may be able to physically accommodate such a large event, but many TwitchCon attendees complain that it lacks the infrastructure to foster the community engagement that Twitch revolves around. Daytime hangouts outside of the convention center were challenging; spaces that dont revolve around drinking or gambling are scarce on the Strip, and if they do exist, theyre too far from the convention center to quickly visit.

The convention center in Vegas was solid but the city had way too much going on, Lowco added. We dont need the distractions of Vegas, theres enough for us to do. Vegas had the community split all over the city, which is not convenient to get around.

Honestly yeah. The psotive vibes were absolutely amazing but PLEASE NOT VEGAS AGAIN.

SEATLE. NATIONAL HARBOR. ANYTHING BUT VEGAS https://t.co/G3eYWwFme5  RedclawDinoVtuber (@RedclawDraws) October 24, 2023

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Rachel Delphin, chief marketing officer at Twitch, confirmed to TechCrunch that next years convention will not be in Las Vegas, but couldnt disclose where it would wind up. Twitch hosts two conventions every year: one in Europe and one in North America. TwitchCon Europe has taken place in Berlin, Amsterdam and, most recently, Paris. Twitch has hosted its North American events throughout California, including in San Jose, Long Beach and San Diego.

To its credit, Twitch is receptive to community feedback, and has had to dramatically scale up its conventions as the platforms usership skyrocketed since the pandemic started in 2020. Attendees complained that last years event, which was the first convention that Twitch hosted in North America in nearly three years, was overcrowded and poorly laid out. The San Diego Convention Centers tight hallways couldnt accommodate so many people, which was worsened by fans flocking around popular streamers and blocking the flow of traffic.

Attendees also complained that the venue was inaccessible for those using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers, because of the unmanaged crowds and unprepared security. In an X thread about the events lack of accessibility, attendees said that when popular streamers walked by, swarming fans pushed around those using mobility aids and nearly trampled them.

Twitch managed to mitigate crowding issues during this years convention, a success that Delphin credits to the company learning quickly.

It was a huge demand to come back. I think fandoms have grown in that time period, just the fervor around specific creators that was totally and wholly different than wed seen before, Delphin said of last years TwitchCon. And the creators themselves had also absolutely exploded. It used to be that youd come to TwitchCon, be the biggest creator, and you could walk around pretty freely. Now its huge, its a whole different kind of apparatus to manage.

Attendee feedback is clear: Next years convention, wherever it is, needs to have more accessible third places.

The third place is a sociological term that refers to a physical space that isnt work or home, where people can socialize without the obligations of productivity. If you can hang out there, its a third place. During the pandemic, virtual communities served as ad hoc third places in lieu of coffee shops, bookstores and gyms. Twitch, which saw exponential growth during the pandemic, was one of them. Last years San Diego-based TwitchCon, for all of its faults, took place in a walkable city abundant with nearby places to hang out, allowing attendees to bond, network and interact outside of the convention center. Theres no shortage of third places in Las Vegas, but for many TwitchCon attendees, nightclubs and casinos arent accessible alternatives to San Diegos more casual venues.

Moni, a streamer working in games tech who goes by Monistreams, expressed her frustrations in a recent post on Twitchs feedback forum UserVoice.

They do a really good job of preparing content, it truly feels like a celebration of the community and streamers, Moni said over a Discord call. Thats their selling point. It is a celebration of streamers and their communities. However, in Las Vegas, it felt like people were not spending time with their favorite streamers or their communities because they were all stuck in an Uber or walking an hour on the Strip, or basically doing anything else but being at the con.

For a city designed around tourism, the Las Vegas Strip is a pain to navigate  a fact that CES attendees are well acquainted with. Whatever traffic and accessibility issues last years TwitchCon attendees faced in San Diegos Gaslamp Quarter paled in comparison to the complaints about the Las Vegas Strip.

Walking in the sprawl of casinos is nearly impossible, especially in Nevadas oppressive October heat. The Las Vegas Convention Center, where TwitchCons programming and exposition hall were based, is located at the end of the Strip and the majority of nearby dining options are either fast food chains or extravagant restaurants. Taking rideshares could be prohibitively expensive (I, for example, spent a heinous $37 on one 10-minute ride between TwitchCon events), and the sheer demand for cars meant that waiting for an Uber could take anywhere between five and 30 minutes. Other events nearby, like the emo revival music festival When We Were Young and the upcoming Formula One Grand Prix, further complicated travel around the convention center.

It was even worse for disabled attendees. Streamer Steve Saylor, a blind gamer and disability advocate, posted that he struggled to get around Las Vegas, even with rideshares, and that those with motor disabilities had even more difficulties because of the lack of adequate accommodations in the citys infrastructure.

Finally back from #TwitchCon and it was such a cool vibe that I really enjoyed everything about it. The people there were amazing! Vegas tho, just the absolute worst. Especially for those with disabilities trying to get anywhere. I hope I never have to go back there again.  Steve Saylor (@stevesaylor) October 24, 2023

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These complaints about the Las Vegas Strip arent new, and are usually accepted in the trade-off for a weekend of partying or networking at a business conference. Twitchs usership, however, skews younger  Twitch reports that in 2022, over 70% of its viewers were between 18 and 34  and they may not have the disposable income to drop hundreds every day on meals and rides. Attendees who do drink complained that Las Vegas is significantly more expensive than San Diego.

The citys emphasis on drinking and gambling is incompatible with much of Twitchs usership. Las Vegas venues are overwhelmingly 21+, which excludes a significant portion of TwitchCons streamers and viewers. Even if they are of legal drinking age, todays young adults tend to drink less than previous generations did.

Las Vegas frenetic pacing is enthralling for many, but some Twitch users complained that the citys energy didnt fit the Twitch demographic. Monis UserVoice post noted that the sensory overload that makes Las Vegas feel like Las Vegas isnt as alluring for introverted gamers.

I want to be mindful of the target audience Twitch serves  I would probably assume many of us felt the same about the overstimulation, Twitch streamer herokerrey commented. While I understand in-person events are a hype/stimulating experience, pairing it with one of the most active cities in the world may not have been the best pick.

Other users commented that they missed the spontaneous get-togethers that made previous conventions so enjoyable, and that the offsite events like creator mixers were scattered across the city. One commenter complained that transportation between events took as long as actually attending the events.

DinomiteTwins, Twitch streamers who are identical twins and share a channel, commented that the citys size put a damper on how easily they could meet fellow creators.

We were in an approved hotel [provided by Twitch] and I met more vacationers, metal workers and brides than Twitch streamers in my hotel, one of the DinomiteTwins commented. A smaller walkable city promotes organic interaction as we are not all taking cabs ... It felt like the priority was just being in a fun place instead of facilitating vendor, creator and community meetups and deepening those ties.

Third places provide more than just a break from the glare of fluorescent convention center lighting  theyre vital for building community, a sentiment that Twitch insists is unique to its platform as other livestreaming competitors gain users. Compared to its competitors, Twitchs robust moderation and slew of collaboration features does facilitate a closer knit sense of community among its streamers and viewers. There was plenty of opportunity to mingle within the walls of the convention center, which even had a designated room to decompress and make friendship bracelets, but organic interactions seemed constrained to Twitch-sponsored events. The diverse programming and various meetups could only do so much in an area with so few casual social spaces.

Lowco, Moni and multiple other Twitch users commenting on Monis UserVoice post all questioned why TwitchCon couldnt take place in San Diego again. Some have floated hosting both a West Coast and East Coast TwitchCon, if capacity is a concern. VidCon, which has traditionally been held in Anaheim, California, recently launched a second convention earlier this year in Baltimore, Maryland.

Ultimately, TwitchCon is a community celebration, Lowco said. We are there to meet up with our viewers and fellow streamers. Lets pick places that make it easy for us to gather.
Two men were arrested Wednesday accused of sexually battering and molesting children in two separate Volusia County cases, authorities said.

Edward Prokop, 71, of New Smyrna Beach was in the Volusia County Branch Jail without bail Thursday charged with sexual battery on a person less than 12 years old, and lewd and lascivious molestation by a person over 18 years old on a person less than 12 years of age.

In a separate incident, Timothy Anderson, 33, of Winter Springs was arrested for a sex offense he allegedly committed while he lived at a home near DeLand.

Anderson was charged with one count of lewd and lascivious molestation. Sheriff's detectives have also filed a second count with the State Attorney's Office, according to an arrest report.

Investigators are also looking at a possible third victim, the Volusia County Sheriff's Office said on Thursday.

30 counts of child porn DeLand-area man, 19, charged with 30 counts of possessing child sexual assault material

New Smyrna Beach police said in an arrest report that on Aug. 31 they responded to Prokop's home for a well-being check. Prokop was suicidal after he learned he was accused of child abuse, police said.

Prokop admitted to police he touched a child, giving her massages. He said he "believes something is being misconstrued," police wrote in their report.

When a Department of Children and Families investigator and police started investigating they learned that the child had written a letter to her parents where she outlined the alleged abuse.

Also on Wednesday, Volusia County investigators arrested Anderson for sexual offenses he committed on two children between July 5, 2022, and Oct. 1, 2022, an arrest report states.

Sheriff's spokeswoman Laura Williams said Thursday that investigators are looking into a third possible victim.

Sheriff's detectives first learned about the alleged sexual abuse involving Anderson on Oct. 14 when the mother called to report it, a charging affidavit states.

Anderson denied touching or molesting the children, his arrest report said.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Men sexually battered and molested Volusia children in separate cases
Kibbutzim close to the border with Gaza were attacked on 7 October

Two Tanzanians and a South African are among the 224 hostages being held by Hamas after the 7 October attacks in Israel, the Israeli government says.

None of the three have been named.

Tanzania's ambassador to Israel has confirmed that two of its citizens have been taken hostage.

The BBC has spoken to the father of one Tanzanian who has been reported missing in Israel - Joshua Mollel, who was an agriculture student on a kibbutz that was targeted.

He told the BBC on Thursday he still had not had any update on the fate of his son.

Earlier in the week, he said they had not spoken since 5 October - two days before the attack - and that the whole family were sick with worry.

"We can't eat or sleep - when I go to the market people ask me why I'm losing so much weight," he said on Sunday.

The South African authorities have not commented on the report that one of its citizens is among the hostages.

Foreigners from 25 countries in all are being held by Hamas, Israel says.

They make up 135 of the 224 being held - the largest number, 54, are from Thailand.

They were taken when militants from Hamas - which Israel, the UK, US and other powers class as a terrorist organisation - crossed into Israel from Gaza killing at least 1,400 people.

Israel has since retaliated with air strikes on Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says have killed almost 6,500 people.
An Israeli soldier stands next to an armoured personnel carrier near Sderot on the border with the Gaza Strip on October 25, 2023, as battles between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas movement continue. Credit - Menahem KahanaAFP via Getty Images

The U.S. military has scrambled to add more intelligence analysts to cover Israeli and Palestinian issues since Hamas launched its gruesome killing spree in southern Israel on Oct. 7, according to two people familiar with the changes.

Analysts at U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) headquarters near Tampa, Fla., who had been following Al Qaeda, Islamic State, and other militant groups were reassigned to also start tracking developments and information related to the emerging war between Israel and Hamas, said the people, who were granted anonymity because they were not authorized publicly to discuss the matter.

The shift in resources was needed because leaders at CENTCOM, which oversees the U.S. war machine in the Middle East and Central Asia, had reduced the number of billets for civilian intelligence analysts tasked with keeping track of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the previous three years, said a person familiar with the changes. Those analysts that remained on the issue had focused less on Gaza and more on the West Bank and understanding internal Israeli politics, the person said.

Collecting and reviewing information about Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza has taken on new urgency for CENTCOM because Hamas is holding more than 200 hostages and some 10 Americans taken during the deadly rampage, and Iranian-backed militias have stepped up attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria. President Biden has also directed two powerful carrier strike groups to sail closer to Israel. All three situations require CENTCOMs attention.

More From TIME

The reshuffle reflects how the Oct. 7 attacks sent shockwaves through the U.S. national security apparatus, upending its priorities in the region. It also raises questions about how the broader U.S. intelligence community allocated its resources in the months and years preceding Hamas surprise offensive.

Officials at CENTCOM did not offer an explanation for why intelligence analysts needed to be reassigned. At this time, we are focused on providing our support to the people of Israel. We have a close partnership with Israel and always share timely intelligence about threats in the region with our partners, said Michael Lawhorn, a spokesperson for CENTCOM, in a statement. Our intelligence community is working hard to gain as much fidelity as possible. Will not comment further on the specifics of our intelligence sharing, Lawhorn said. Officials at the CIA and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, which oversees the entire U.S. intelligence community, declined to comment.

During the Trump and Biden administrations, the U.S. government had focused diplomatic efforts in the region on trying to help normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia and countering Iranian influence in conflicts from Yemen to Syria. The Biden administration was caught by surprise by Hamas surprise attacks.

They didnt see it coming. Its not that they did a bad job. Its just a reminder of the unpredictability of international relations, says Michael OHanlon, senior fellow and director of research in foreign policy at the Brookings Institution. The Israelis watch Gaza every day and they missed it.

Earlier this year, CIA director William Burns suggested the situation in the region could soon turn more volatile. Conversations I had with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, you know, I think it left me quite concerned about the prospects for even greater fragility and even greater violence between Israelis and Palestinians as well, Burns said during a public discussion at Georgetown University in February. He added that he and others in the intelligence community were seeing similarities to a leading up to the Second Intifada uprising that lasted more than four years after former President Bill Clintons Camp David Summit failed to deliver a two-state solution in 2000.

In recent years, U.S. intelligence officials havent focused many resources on Hamas and the Gaza Strip because it wasnt seen as presenting a threat to the U.S. homeland, said a U.S. official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to speak about closed-door discussions. "Israel is responsible for their own backyard. We cannot keep close tabs on Gaza the way they do, the official says.

A decision by intelligence leaders to reallocate resources now, the official adds, does not mean they were improperly allocated before but that intelligence leaders are responding to new developments. "Given the outbreak in Israel, there is a larger risk, not so much of Hamas striking our homeland, as turning into a larger regional conflict that endangers US troops in the region, the official says.

In recent days, Iran-backed proxy forces have launched drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria, injuring U.S. service members, and a U.S. Naval ship shot down a rocket fired by Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen that was heading toward Israel.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Mainland lauds youth internet interactions in cross-Strait development

Xinhua) 09:59, October 26, 2023

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson Wednesday lauded the interactions of young people across the Taiwan Strait through the internet.

Internet social platforms enable compatriots on both sides of the Strait to have more convenient and diverse communication and exchanges, said Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, adding that such interactions can help people across the Taiwan Strait broaden the common ground in culture and history as they share the same cultural traditions.

"The emotional resonance and cultural consensus are strong internal strength driving the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations," said Zhu, calling for more Taiwan compatriots to have exchanges with their mainland counterparts.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
United Auto Workers (UAW) and Ford reached a tentative labor agreement Wednesday, the union announced, ending six weeks of strikes at the company.

The four-year, tentative deal includes a 25 percent wage increase over the course of the contract, with 11 percent coming in the first year. Cost of living increases could lift the pay raises to 33 percent, the union said.

Today, we reached a tentative agreement with Ford, UAW President Shawn Fain said in a video message Wednesday. For months, we said record profits mean record contracts. And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered.

The UAW went on strike at three Ford facilities, sending more than 16,000 Ford workers to picket lines including at its largest and most profitable factory; the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville.

The union is also striking General Motors and Stellantis  which together with Ford make up the Big Three automakers  though negotiations are ongoing with the other firms.

I want to be clear. We told Ford to pony up and they did. We won things nobody thought was possible, Fain said. This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford at the Big Three and across the auto industry. Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country.

Other points of the tentative Ford deal include raising wages faster, meaning workers can reach the highest wage level in three years instead of eight, as well as increasing company contributions to worker pensions.

The most senior autoworkers will earn as much as $40 per hour, the union said, up from $32 per hour in the current, expired labor agreement.

UAW Ford employees will go back to work pending the tentative deal. UAWs 57,000 Ford members must approve the agreement with a majority vote for the contract to go into place.

Were going back to work at Ford to keep the pressure on Stellantis and GM, Fain said. The last thing they want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind.

Ford confirmed the deal in a statement late Wednesday.

Ford is proud to assemble the most vehicles in America and employ the most hourly autoworkers, the company said. We are focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again.

A Ford deal could force other automakers to the negotiating table, using the tentative deal as a template, as has happened in previous strikes.

The UAW ratcheted up the pressure on GM and Stellantis this week, sending nearly 12,000 more workers at the two companies to picket lines. GM announced third-quarter earnings of $3.5 billion on Tuesday.

Another record quarter, another record year, UAW President Shawn Fain said in a statement Tuesday. As weve said for months: record profits equal record contracts. Its time GM workers, and the whole working class, get their fair share.

More than 45,000 of the unions nearly 150,000 members at the three companies are on strike nationwide.

President Biden applauded the deal after his administration backed striking workers. He walked the picket lines with UAW workers at a GM plant last month.

I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight, Biden said in a statement. This tentative agreement provides a record raise to auto workers who have sacrificed so much to ensure our iconic Big Three companies can still lead the world in quality and innovation.

Ive always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class, he continued. That is especially the case for UAW workers who built an iconic American industry. And critical to building an economy from the middle out and bottom up, instead of from the top down, is worker power.

Updated 9:51 p.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
WAYNE (FOX 2) - After 40 days of striking, a tentative agreement was reached Wednesday night between the UAW and Ford.

Ford employees on strike will be back to work soon.

"We are calling on all Ford strikers to go back to work while we vote on our tentative agreement," said UAW VP Chuck Browning. "Like everything we've done in this stand-up strike, this is a strategic move to get the best deal possible. We're going back to work at Ford to keep the pressure on Stellantis and GM. The last thing they want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind."

The four-year deal, which still has to be approved by 57,000 union members at Ford, could bring the nearly six-week strike to an end.

"I'm emotional but just super excited that this is over with," said Ford employee Keith Jurgelewicz. "I just can't wait to get back to work and just get on with my life man. This is my first strike but I put in a lot of time and effort with Ford, so I'm just really excited that it's going to work out for everybody  hopefully GM and Stellantis can get their deals done."

(Provided by the UAW)

"Ford is proud to assemble the most vehicles in America and employ the most hourly autoworkers. We are focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again," said Ford CEO and President Jim Farley in a statement, confirming the deal.

"The agreement is subject to ratification by Fords UAW-represented employees. Consistent with the ratification process, the UAW will share details with its membership," Farley continued.

According to the UAW, the historic agreement includes:

25% wage increases.

150% raise for current Ford temporary workers.

Up to 85% immediate raise for some workers at Sterling Axle/Rawsonville.

68% increase of starting wages.

33% increase of top wages.

(Provided by the UAW)

"Certainly, this tentative agreement is good news, and hopefully a positive sign for other companies," said Detroit Regional Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer, Sandy K. Baruah. "This strike has gone on for far too long, especially considering the Detroit Three have essentially agreed to the UAW demands on wages, health care, the tier structure, vacation days, retirement, cost of living adjustments, and more. The short- and long- term damage is now what the companies and communities will have to begin to address."

The White House release a statement from President Joe Biden following the agreement, applauding "the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation."

"Ive always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class," Biden said. "That is especially the case for UAW workers who built an iconic American industry."

Since workers walked off the line at assembly plants in Wayne, Michigan, Missouri, and Ohio, the strike has cost the auto industry billions. It's also rankled the Detroit Three's supply chain while creating havoc for suppliers.

While it started with only three facilities being targeted, the historic move by the union to strike Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis at the same time reached their biggest points in the past two weeks.

The UAW first hit Ford's Kentucky plant where it makes its SuperDuty F-150 truck. Then the UAW targeted Stellantis' Ram plant in Sterling Heights, followed by GM's plant in Texas where it makes SUVs. All plants are major profit centers for the automakers.

The escalation follows weeks of other facilities seeing workers picket for a better deal.

The contract negotiations have circled around wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, healthcare benefits, and the ending of tiers. While not explicitly named in the UAW's demands, the premise of incoming battery plants and the electrification of each automaker's fleet has hovered over the negotiations.

Earlier on Wednesday, a source told the Associated Press the UAW and Ford were near a deal after the union dropped its demand for better pay to a 25% increase in wages.

"Our standup strike has delivered," UAW President Shawn Fain said. "What started at three plants at midnight on Sept. 15 has become a national movement."

Fox 2's Dave Kinchen is on the scene at Wayne, tune in at 10 p.m. for further details.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Uber is trying driverless rides starting Thursday in the Phoenix metro area through a partnership with Waymo. Waymo-enabled vehicles pictured during the 2023 International CES, at the Venetian Convention Center in Las Vegas Jan. 6, 2023. Photo by James Atoa/UPI

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Uber announced Thursday it will begin using driverless cars to transport customers in the metro Phoenix area through a partnership with Waymo.

Uber said in a statement that riders in the Phoenix metro area who request an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort or Uber Comfort Electric may be matched with a Waymo driverless ride.

To increase the chance Uber rides will be driverless in metro Phoenix, including Sky Harbor International Airport's 24th St. and 44th St SkyTrain locations, Uber users can opt into the service in the user preferences section of the app.

Those who are matched with a Waymo vehicle will be given the opportunity to accept it or wait for another ride.

Users will have to use the app to unlock the driverless vehicles that arrive to pick them up.

Uber said riders will also have access to 24/7 customer support if assistance is needed at any time during the ride.

The partnership comes after Uber and Waymo reached a $245 million stock settlement in a trade-secret theft case in 2018.

In the lawsuit, Waymo accused Uber of using trade secrets taken by Anthony Levandowski, who headed Uber's Advanced Technologies Group after leaving Google where he worked on a self-driving project that ultimately became Waymo. Levandowski was dismissed from the role by Uber as part of the lawsuit in 2017.

Uber has also faced legal and regulatory challenges to its practice of treating drivers as contractors rather than employees.

The company on Thursday said that for "quite a long time" the numbers of its human drivers and autonomous vehicles will "will continue to grow, side by side."
Palestinians work to rescue people at the site of an Israeli strike on a residential building in Gaza City

LONDON (Reuters) -Britain will convene a meeting of the government's COBRA emergency response committee on Thursday to consider its strategy and approach towards Gaza and the Israeli-Hamas conflict, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden told Times Radio.

Britain is pushing for a humanitarian pause to the conflict, for Britons in Gaza to be able to leave safely, and for the release of British hostages.

"We will discuss the hostages and we'll discuss the wider situation in the region and we will also discuss ... securing humanitarian aid," Dowden, who will chair the meeting, said in a separate interview with Sky News.

(Reporting by William JamesEditing by William Schomberg)
View of the Khmelnytskyi NPP

Ukraine is investigating claims that an overnight Russian drone attack on Oct. 25 deliberately targeted the Khmelnitskyi Nuclear Power Plant, Air Force spokesperson Yuriy Ihnat stated on national television.

The attack caused significant damage in the vicinity of the plant, Ihnat added, and emphasized the importance of safeguarding key infrastructure facilities. He stated mentioned that Ukraines military leadership regularly discusses measures to strengthen air defense.

Read also:

He did not confirm whether or not the strike was intentional aimed at the nuclear facility, however, when asked to comment on an earlier statement given by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Read also: Russian air raids targetted at Khmelnytskyi Oblasts critical infrastructure facilities, says official

Yesterday, we released information about the destruction of 11 drones, the spokesperson explained.

Read also: Injuries reported after Russian drone attack on Khmelnytskyi Oblast rise to 20

If there can be damage as a result of air defense operations, you understand that everything that is shot down falls down. Therefore, understanding the exact target of the enemy can only be determined when there is a direct hit.

Following the drone strike, authorities in Khmelnytskyi Oblast reported that debris from the drones fell onto a critical infrastructure facility in the Shepetivka district. This incident affected the nearby cities of Slavuta and Netishyn, where the Khmelnytskyi NPP is located. Multiple buildings in the vicinity sustained damage, and approximately 2,000 households were left without electricity.

According to the State Emergency Service, a total of 1,760 structures were damaged due to falling debris and the shockwave caused by the drone attack. These structures included residential buildings, educational institutions in Slavuta, the fire and rescue department, the police station, and more. At least 20 people were reported to have been injured in the attack.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Ukraine-Poland border crossing points

The Ukrainian parliament will consider imposing fines on male draft-age citizens returning from abroad, as outlined in a corresponding bill tabled in September 2022.

If the corresponding bill No. 8029 is approved, Ukrainian men remaining abroad who left after Feb. 24, 2022, will need to pay 25,890 hryvnias ($710) for each month spent outside Ukraine, once they return to the country.

Read also: Number of mobilized Russians fleeing military units reportedly spikes

While voluntary fine payment is suggested, non-compliance means entry is only possible upon payment. This rule primarily affects those who cant prove deferment from mobilization.

Read also: Can Ukraine's armed forces mobilize 300,000 in one go?  Interview with Danilov

During the state of war, all men aged 18 to 60 are considered conscripts and can be mobilized if a military medical commission deems them fit for service.

Conscripts and active military personnel are generally not allowed to leave Ukraine during a state of war, with a handful of exceptions outlined by the law.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council Danilov speaks during an interview with Reuters in Kyiv

(Reuters) - A senior Ukrainian official said on Thursday the election of Mike Johnson, a U.S. Republican who has been an opponent to Ukraine aid, as speaker of the House of Representatives would not affect Washington's vital assistance for Kyiv.

Johnson, who was named House speaker on Wednesday, told reporters he supported further aid to Ukraine "with conditions", with accountability and clear objectives from the White House.

Oleksiy Danilov , secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, said Johnson's election was good for Ukraine because it ended a three-week leadership vacuum in the House.

"I'm more than sure that cooperation will continue, assistance will continue," Danilov said in televised comments.

"The statement made by the speaker that they would like to check the assistance they provide  this is a completely natural thing. We're happy to provide all information about the aid, there are no secrets."

Ukraine relies heavily on support from its partners - both militarily and economically. Recent calls from within the United States to review or cut assistance to Kyiv have raised concerns about the future of the aid.

U.S. President Joe Biden asked Congress last week to pass a $106 billion funding package which included billions of dollars in assistance for Ukraine.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; editing by Tom Balmforth and Deborah Kyvrikosaios)
TK Majestic, carrying grain under UN's Black Sea Grain Initiative, waits in the southern anchorage of Istanbul

By Pavel Polityuk

KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov denied on Thursday reports by Ukrainian and British firms that the new Black Sea export corridor had been suspended.

"The information regarding the cancellation or unscheduled stoppage of the temporary #Ukrainian_corridor for the movement of civilian vessels from and to the ports of the Big Odesa (region) is false," Kubrakov said on X, formerly Twitter.

"All available routes established by the Ukrainian Navy are valid and being used by civilian vessels."

The Kyiv-based Barva Invest consultancy, British security firm Ambrey and a specialised outlet, Ukrainian Ports, reported that Ukraine had suspended use of the corridor due to a possible threat from Russian warplanes and sea mines.

Ukraine has been using the corridor to try to revive its seaborne exports without Russian approval, defying threats from Moscow which quit a U.N.-brokered deal in July that had allowed some food exports to flow despite the war.

"We would like to inform you of a temporary suspension of vessel traffic to and from (the ports). The current ban is in force on Oct. 26, but it is possible that it will be extended," the consultancy said on the Telegram messaging app.

Chicago wheat futures, a global price benchmark, turned higher on the news to recover from an earlier two-week low. They later traded up about 1%.

Wheat futures had been pressured this week by hopes that Ukraine would expand grain exports, as well as rain relief in dry crop belts worldwide. [GRA/]

Barva Invest, which specialises in Ukraine's agriculture sector, said a de facto suspension had already been in place for two days at the behest of Kyiv's military, which had cited a threat from increased Russian air force activity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that he had ordered Russian warplanes armed with Kinzhal missiles to patrol the Black Sea.

British maritime security company Ambrey said in a report that the Ukrainian Seaport Authority issued a communique late on Wednesday, saying: "There would be no vessel movement along the corridor for entry and exit on 26th of October, 2023."

The suspension was prompted by Russian Air Force operations in the region, it said.

"On October 25th, Ambrey informed its clients that the Russian Air Force had dropped at least four objects, likely acoustic and/or magnetic sea mines, into the Ukrainian grain corridor transit area near Snake Island, Ukraine," it said.

HUMANITARIAN CORRIDOR

Ukraine launched a "humanitarian corridor" for ships bound for African and Asian markets in August to try to circumvent a de facto blockade in the Black Sea after Russia quit the deal that had guaranteed Kyiv's seaborne exports during the war.

Later, a senior agricultural official said the route - which runs along Ukraine's southwest Black Sea coast, into Romanian territorial waters and onwards to Turkey, would also be used for grain shipments.

About 700,000 tons of grain have left Ukrainian ports via the new route since it began operating in August. Ukraine shipped up to six million tons of grain a month from its Black Sea ports before Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Kubrakov said 23 ships were loading in the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi.

"A total of 51 vessels used the entrance corridor. 33 vessels exported more than 1.3 million tons of Ukrainian agricultural products and other cargo," he said.

(Additional reporting by Gus Trompiz in Paris and Jonathan Saul in London; editing by Tom Balmforth, Mark Heinrich and Giles Elgood)
The Khmelnytsky power plant was lightly damaged, according to Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky

A Russian drone attack on western Ukraine likely targeted a nuclear power plant, President Volodymyr Zelensky says.

Iranian-designed Shahed drones struck the area around the power plant in the western Khmelnytsky region early on Wednesday, he said.

The attack injured 20 people and caused light damage, including broken windows.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said the plant's operations were unaffected.

"Powerful explosions shook an area near Ukraine's Khmelnytsky Nuclear Power Plant," IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said in a statement. The blasts highlight "the dangers to nuclear safety" posed by the war, he added.

The Khmelnytsky plant has two reactors. One is operating and one has been in planned outage since August.

Fears of fighting affecting a nuclear power plant have been omnipresent since Russia first invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Russian forces have controlled the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, in eastern Ukraine, since March 2022.

Kyiv accuses Russia of shelling the plant and risking a radiation leak, behaviour it characterises as "nuclear terror". No serious accident has occurred since the full-scale invasion last year, however.

Mr Zelensky said the attack in the Khmelnytsky region showed that Ukraine's air defences needed further support from international partners.

He added that Russian drones and missiles contained components originating from Western companies and countries and the Khmelnytsky strike showed "how dangerous it can be when Russia can bypass international sanctions".

On Tuesday, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced a 1.4bn ($1.5bn; 1.2bn) aid package for Ukraine.

The new aid will include missile defence systems with the aim of creating a "protective shield" around Ukrainian infrastructure, given Russian plans "to use the cold and energy shortages as weapons against the civilian population", he said.

Separately, Ukrainian intelligence claimed on Thursday that a car carrying four members of Russia's FSB security service was blown up in Berdyansk, in the Zaporizhzhia region. According to Russian media, at least one person was killed by an apparent improvised explosive device.

The reported bombing is the latest in a string of attacks targeting Russian officials and collaborators in occupied Ukraine.

In September, Vladimir Malov, a member of Russian President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party in the Kherson region, was killed when his car was blown up in an apparent assassination.
Valerii Zaluzhnyi , Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has met with General Christopher Cavoli, Supreme Allied Commander Europe and Commander of the United States Army in Europe, and Admiral Tony Radakin , Chief of the Defence Staff of the UK.

Source: Valerii Zaluzhnyi on Facebook

Quote: "As part of the meeting, I briefed them on the situation on the battlefield. We discussed our offensive and defensive operations, the situation on the hottest fronts, and the enemys likely plans.

We also covered the Ukrainian Armed Forces pressing need for more ammunition, drones, and military equipment."

Details: The military leaders discussed ways to strengthen Ukraines air defence and protect its critical infrastructure facilities during autumn and winter.

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The "Motherland" monument is seen through a tattered tarpaulin in Kyiv. Earlier this year, Kyiv replaced the communist symbol on the shield of the Soviet-era monument with the Ukrainian national emblem. (Thomas Peter/Reuters) (Thomas Peter / reuters)

The fighting in eastern Ukraine has been slow  and brutal. For months, neither Ukraine nor Russia has made the kind of momentum-shifting gains that could bring either side closer to victory. Instead, the war, which began when Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022, has settled into trench warfare, a game of kilometers nobody seems to be winning.

President Biden has said the United States will support Ukraine for as long as it takes. But the recent chaos on Capitol Hill  with right-wing Republicans skeptical of more U.S. military aid to Ukraine ousting House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, then struggling to unite and elect his successor  could not have been inspiring to leaders in Kyiv. And the possibility of a second Donald Trump presidency could mean that aid to Ukraine could end altogether.

Meanwhile, cold weather will soon freeze both armies in Eastern Europe in place. Large-scale operations probably wont resume until spring, when the war will be in its third year.

Recommended reading

Mixed results on counteroffensive

A member of the Ukrainian National Guard uses a metal detector to check an area in the Kharkiv region near the Russian border in September 2022. (Sofiia Gatilova/Reuters) (Stringer . / reuters)

There are scant weeks of good weather left for Ukraine to make progress against Russia along a 700-mile-long front that bends from north to south along the occupied nations eastern flank, where Russia has illegally annexed four territories.

So far, gains have been exceptionally modest, with dug-in Russian troops proving difficult to dislodge. The goal of splitting Russias defensive lines and reaching the Azov Sea now looks to have been something of a fantasy.

I see the counteroffensive as a failure, despite some mild gains and success targeting Russian ships in the Black Sea, Benjamin H. Friedman, policy director of the Defense Priorities think tank, told Yahoo News. They'd have been better served to stay on defense and hope to wear down Russian will rather than exhausting so much capability trying for breakthroughs.

But others argue that Ukrainian attacks on Russias Black Sea fleet and positions in Crimea should not be understated  even if gains on the eastern front have indeed been modest.

A crucial part of Kyivs long-term plan for the war is to push Russia out of the Crimean Peninsula and the rest of the Russian-occupied parts of Ukraines coastline, Oz Katerji and Vladislav Davidzon pointed out in a recent article in Foreign Policy. They wrote, Ukraine has achieved a series of startling victories in and around Crimea ... with major impacts on the Russians ability to operate on the peninsula and in the western Black Sea.

New Russian offensive

A howitzer from the 55th Separate Artillery Brigade after firing toward Russian troops near the town of Avdiivka, Ukraine. (Viacheslav Ratynskyi/Reuters) (Viacheslav Ratynskyi / reuters)

Earlier this month, Russia launched an offensive of its own centered on the village of Avdiivka, in Ukraines southeastern Donetsk region.

This offensive was not a surprise, National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said during a White House briefing Thursday. Weve been watching this build and come. He said that Russia had suffered significant losses since the offensive began about two weeks ago. The Kremlin has generally been willing to accept such losses, both of soldiers and equipment.

We expect more Russian attacks to come, Kirby acknowledged. This is a dynamic conflict, and we need to remember that Russia maintains some offensive capability and may be able to achieve some tactical gains in the coming months.

Russia is now producing its own drones (the unmanned vehicles were previously supplied by Iran) and is receiving shipments of ammunition from North Korea while continuing to forge an ever deeper economic relationship with China.

To compensate for its horrific battlefield losses  as many as 120,000 Russian troops have been killed in action, according to some estimates  Russia has been forcibly conscripting Central Asian migrants, according to the Institute for the Study of War.

Kirby also said on Thursday that Russia has been executing its own soldiers  perhaps a battalion at a time  for refusing to fight. The practice, which he deemed barbaric, recalls the no retreat order that Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin gave during the darkest days of World War II.

Two wars, one cause

President Biden delivers an address on Oct. 19 about the Israel-Hamas conflict, humanitarian assistance in Gaza and continued support for Ukraine in its war with Russia. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters) (Jonathan Ernst / reuters)

The conflict between Israel and Hamas that started earlier this month does not make things any easier for Ukraine, which was already facing fatigue, whether from donor nations like Poland or conservative Republicans on Capitol Hill.

When Biden announced funding requests for both Israel ($14 billion) and Ukraine ($60 billion), he described both nations  the only two in the world led by Jewish presidents  as locked in similar struggles against violent, autocratic forces.

Hamas and [Russian President Vladimir] Putin represent different threats, Biden said, but they share this in common: They both want to completely annihilate a neighboring democracy.

Backers of Ukraine welcomed the parallel, especially since the country's main foe, Russia, has also supported some of the forces most hostile to Israel in the Middle East.

Its clear that some people are keen to move on from Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, Uriel Epshtein, executive director of the Renew Democracy Initiative, told Yahoo News.

This is deeply concerning, especially because these crises are connected. Putin has met with Hamas numerous times in recent years, has partnered with their chief backer, Iran, and hopes that by sowing chaos elsewhere, he can make the world forget about Ukraine.

Recommended reading
The Defence Forces of Ukraine have received over 200 combat UAVs Heavy Shot within the framework of the Army of Drones state program.

Source: Mykhailo Fedorov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine

Quote: "The birds (drones  ed.) will help the soldiers hold the defence and [launch their own] counter-attack[s]. The military will kill the infantry, and destroy military equipment, storages and control points of the Russians.

Details: Fedorov added that the Heavy Shot UAVs have the GPS navigation system, which is resistant to the means of radioelectronic warfare and automatically return to the base after striking the enemies.

The drones were completely developed and made in Ukraine thanks to the efforts of Gurzuf Defence company.

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The press service for Ukraines Territorial Defence Forces (part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine) has reported that a new unit comprising both military personnel and civilians has been created to take care of the preservation of cultural heritage as part of a pilot project.

The unit will be deployed in areas where hostilities are currently underway and in grey zones, and will be tasked with monitoring damage to cultural heritage sites. The unit will be under the command of the Territorial Defence Forces. It will help implement the Hague Convention for the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict.

This pilot project aims to get experts involved in safeguarding and preserving cultural heritage sites and monuments located in areas that are currently overseen by the military, and assessing the extent of potential damage done to these sites. At the moment, museum workers, archaeologists, and cultural historians do not have access to such sites, while cultural heritage experts serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces do not currently have a mandate to carry out this work.

Cultural workers, who can accurately assess damage to cultural heritage sites and objects and take measures to preserve or evacuate such sites and objects, have been joining the new unit.

Ihor Poshyvailo, director of the Maidan (Revolution of Dignity) Museum and coordinator of the Headquarters for the Rescue of Cultural Heritage, is among those who have joined the unit. He explained the units importance in a comment for Ukrainska Pravda.

"One of this units goals is to gather evidence for the International Criminal Court. The military have to work with representatives of cultural institutions in accordance with their area of expertise," Poshyvailo said. He added that the new initiative gives civilians who have undergone appropriate training (in tactical medicine and handling firearms) access to the grey zone.

The latest numbers from Ukraines Ministry of Culture suggest that 1,702 cultural heritage sites have been damaged since the start of Russias full-scale invasion. "Collections that should be evacuated remain in many destroyed museums," Poshyvailo says. Civilian experts will now be able to help military personnel assess such sites and devise plans to safely transfer the collections to safer areas.

Poshyvailo adds that such units exist in many European armies: "NATO also has units like this. Theyre called CPP [Culture Property Protection]. Frances equivalent of this unit is also active during peacetime, working alongside museum workers to devise emergency response plans. Its also tasked with documenting events, recording the unfolding of historic events in the event of hostilities. Theyre doing everything they can to preserve [cultural heritage]."

Experts from Heritage Monitoring Lab  a group of researchers, architects, historians and art historians researching crimes against cultural heritage during the Russian-Ukrainian war  welcomed the creation of this new unit. As of October 2023, its members have inspected 769 sites in 11 Ukrainian oblasts.

"We welcome this initiative as a group working to document war crimes. Its very important not to stop at this but to grow this initiative and create a real CPP unit, so that [cultural] experts (architects, historians and archeologists) already serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces can transfer there. Civilian [cultural] experts would also be able to join this unit and carry out their work as part of the Armed Forces," says Mariia Zadorozhna, director of cultural criminology at the Heritage Monitoring Lab.

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Ukrainian oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskyi, owner of the 1+1 Media Group, who is in custody in the case of the misappropriation of PrivatBank's funds, has transferred his corporate rights in the media holding company to be managed by the company's staff represented by the current Director General, Yaroslav Pakholchuk.

Source: 1+1 Medias website

Kolomoiskyi decided to transfer his corporate rights on 23 October. The statement was addressed to the team of the media group and the National Council for Television and Radio Broadcasting.

Quote: "I have decided to transfer the corporate rights belonging to me to the management of the team in the person of Yaroslav Valeriyovych Pakholchuk, Director General of Studio 1+1 Television and Radio Company LLC, who will act in the interests of the companies and on behalf of the team as a representative," Kolomoiskyis statement reads.

The 1+1 statement reads that the authority to manage corporate rights provides for the manager's ability to make any necessary decisions on his behalf, except for alienating and/or encumbering corporate rights belonging to Kolomoiskyi and receiving dividends.

"The transfer of corporate rights to management will not lead to a change in the ultimate beneficial owner of the 1+1 Media Group, the decisive influence (control) remains with Ihor Kolomoiskyi," the media group added.

The decision to transfer corporate rights was adopted for a period of five years. 1+1 explains that this was done "to protect and preserve the principles of freedom of speech, impartiality and objective coverage of events, which are critically important factors for the existence of a media company in the conditions of a full-scale war". Another reason is Kolomoiskyis current inability to fully exercise his powers. The oligarch has been in custody since 2 September.

"Today, it is extremely important, especially in the conditions of turbulence and a full-scale invasion, to preserve the working mechanism that has been formed for years, and to ensure the continuity of the team's work to fulfil the tasks of the information defence capability of the country which are assigned to it," Kolomoiskyi summarised.

Background:

On 2 September, the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), the Bureau of Economic Security and the Prosecutor General's Office served oligarch Ihor Kolomoiskyi with a notice of suspicion under Articles 190 and 209 of the Criminal Code: fraud and legalisation (laundering) of the proceeds of crime. Subsequently, Kolomoiskyi was served with two more notices of suspicion concerning the withdrawal of a total of UAH 15 billion (approx. US$406 million) from PrivatBank.

Kyivs Shevchenkivskyi District Court remanded Kolomoiskyi in custody for 60 days with the option of bail of nearly UAH 510 million (US$13.3 million). The bail was subsequently increased to UAH 3.89 billion (US$101.5 million).

On 8 September, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Specialist Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office seized Kolomoiskyi's assets and property for two days.

On 21 September, High Anti-Corruption Court judge Oleh Tkachenko refused to allow prosecutors from the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office to seize Kolomoiskyis assets.

On 24 October, the Shevchenkivskyi Court of Kyiv rejected the request of the defence of Ihor Kolomoiskyi to change the preventive measure to house arrest and left the pre-trial restriction unchanged: he remained remanded in custody and bail was set at UAH 3.89 billion (US$108.3 million).

Kolomoiskyi faces up to 12 years in prison.

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Ukrainian military pilots have begun learning to fly the F-16 Fighting Falcon jet in Arizona, the U.S. Air Force confirmed Wednesday.

A small number of Ukrainians started training at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson this week, Air Force spokesperson Rose Riley said in an emailed statement. Morris is home to the 162nd Wing of the Arizona National Guard, an F-16 pilot training hub that hosts international students.

The training curriculum will align with the foundational knowledge and skills of each pilot and is expected to last several months, Riley said.

The initiative is the latest step in Americas efforts, along with its NATO allies, to support Ukraine in its nearly two-year war with Russia. The U.S. has provided more than $113 billion in military, humanitarian and other aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded its eastern European neighbor in February 2022.

The New York Times reported in August that the war had killed nearly 500,000 troops in its first 18 months, citing U.S. officials. Thousands more civilians are dead and millions displaced.

U.S. officials have stressed that building a Ukrainian F-16 enterprise is a long-term solution to modernize the countrys military and bolster regional security, not an immediate way to add combat firepower as Ukraine tries to drive out Russian forces.

In September, Air National Guard boss Lt. Gen. Michael Loh told reporters the first group of Ukrainian pilots could finish F-16 training by the end of the year, though it would take longer to get the jets into combat.

The initial pilots were expected to come in with more flight experience than others who may follow them, which would require the U.S. to spend more time getting them up to speed. Air Force leaders have estimated that training each batch of pilots could take up to nine months on average.

Ukraines leaders have pushed their Western allies to provide fighter jets. The Biden administration demurred for months, citing concerns about the cost, the possibility of provoking Russia and the planes survivability against Russian air defenses.

But an Air Force-run study showed the idea was possible, and earlier this year, the administration signed onto a plan to send Ukraine the airframes  provided by the Netherlands and Denmark  and to train troops in Europe and the U.S. with a coalition of nearly a dozen countries.

Before arriving in Arizona, the first pilots headed to an English-language training program at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas.

The Defense Language Institutes English Language Center, led by the Air Force, graduates around 350 foreigners from about 50 countries each year. The program prepares airmen to hold conversations with pilots in flight, crew members in the back of an aircraft, and air traffic control towers, while minimizing accents and familiarizing students with Western aviation norms.

Learning to operate the F-16 will put existing combat skills and the English-language program to the test. Politico reported Oct. 13 that Ukrainian pilots had already begun learning their way around the jet in flight simulators in Europe.

Some U.S. officials have publicly doubted how much of a difference giving Ukraine more advanced fighter jets than those in its Soviet-era fleet will make.

F-16s will give the Ukrainians an increment of capability that they dont have right now, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall said in May. But its not going to be a dramatic game-changer, as far as Im concerned, for their total military capabilities.

Not all agree with that assessment.

Loh told reporters the F-16s ability to disable enemy air defenses and fly low-altitude strike missions could help Ukraine. The jet is also supported by a robust network of international users and is still in production at Lockheed Martin.

I definitely think it can be a game changer, Loh said.
KINGSTON - An Ulster County man was sentenced to prison Wednesday after being convicted of manslaughter in the killing of his childhood best friend.

Ulster County District Attorney David Clegg said Gregory Thayer, 50, of the town of Ulster, was sentenced to 25 years in state prison for first-degree manslaughter and 15 years in state prison for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, both felonies. He also was sentenced to five years of post-release supervision.

The sentences were pronounced by state Supreme Court Justice Roger D. McDonough in Ulster County Court, and they will run concurrently.

Thayer was convicted of manslaughter and weapon possession on May 10 following a non-jury trial before Ulster County Court Judge Bryan Rounds.

Stabbing attack: Kingston man indicted for attempted murder

Thayer had been charged with second-degree murder, but Rounds found that he was suffering from extreme emotional disturbance. The district attorney's office said state law only permits a conviction for first-degree manslaughter under those circumstances.

Thayer was accused of killing his childhood best friend, Bruce Swierc, of California, who was visiting the area at the time.

According to Clegg, Thayer was upset that Swierc was "talking trash" while the two were hanging out at his kitchen table, so he went upstairs, got a gun, returned downstairs and shot Swierc in the back of the head.

After the shooting, Thayer called his sister Stephanie Thayer instead of 911 or the police, removed the remaining bullets from the gun and took pictures of the victim with his phone.

Proposed expansion: New stores, parking, hotel proposed at Woodbury Common

Swierc, 48, who had a wife and children, had returned to his childhood home to console his mother, a Rhinebeck resident who had recently lost her long-time partner. He had planned to spend a few more days visiting relatives and Thayer.

Thayer's attorney, Robert Gottlieb, said he has filed a motion to vacate the conviction, noting Rounds recused himself from the sentencing and a judge who did not sit through the trial pronounced that sentence.

Mike Randall covers breaking news for the Times Herald-Record and the Poughkeepsie Journal. Reach him at mrandall@th-record.com or on Twitter @mikerandall845.

This article originally appeared on Times Herald-Record: Manslaughter conviction brings prison sentence for Ulster County man
Some 1.4 million people have fled their homes across the Gaza Strip, with 600,000 sheltering in UN facilities

UN aid agencies say they have begun to significantly reduce their operations in the Gaza Strip because they have almost exhausted their fuel reserves.

Small quantities of fuel retrieved from existing reserves are being used to maintain the water supply in the south, where hundreds of thousands of people are sheltering from Israeli strikes.

However, they will run out on Thursday.

The agencies say they have reduced their support for overwhelmed hospitals and bakeries feeding the displaced.

"What we are seeing in the Gaza Strip is unprecedented," Juliette Touma of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, told the BBC.

"Two million people are being strangled. Gaza is being choked with very, very little assistance that is coming from outside."

Israel began its bombing campaign in Gaza, cut off electricity and most water, and stopped imports of food, fuel and other goods in retaliation for a cross-border attack by Hamas on 7 October, in which at least 1,400 people were killed and 224 taken hostage.

Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry says 7,000 people have been killed in the territory since then and that its health system is facing total collapse, with a third of hospitals not functioning and the rest only treating emergency cases.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

At least 74 lorries carrying food, water and medical supplies have crossed from Egypt via the Rafah border crossing since Saturday, which Ms Touma called "a drop in the ocean of overwhelming needs". About 500 lorries were allowed into Gaza every day before the start of the war.

Israel refuses to allow deliveries of fuel because it says it could be used for military purposes by Hamas, which it classes as a terrorist organisation - as do the UK, US and other powers.

But Ms Touma said Unrwa urgently needed fuel if it was to continue to serve as a lifeline for the 629,000 displaced people taking refuge inside its facilities. Most fled homes in the north of Gaza after being told by the Israeli military to leave for their own safety.

"We're the largest humanitarian organisation and we are on the verge of stopping operations. We are being banned from undertaking the mandate that was entrusted to us by the UN General Assembly. All we're asking to do is to be able to do our work," she added.

Dr Abdelkader Hammad, a surgeon at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital in the UK who arrived in Gaza the day before the war began to carry out transplants, is sheltering at a UN facility in the southern city of Rafah.

"The situation on the ground is deteriorating day by day," he told the BBC.

"People are fighting for the water, for the food, because of the shortages. Whatever they have in the stores is running out now. People are queuing for hours and hours to get some bread from the bakeries which are still working."

He also expressed alarm about the conditions at the hospitals where he usually performs operations, saying that his colleagues working at them were describing a "medical disaster".

"Theatres are full of wounded people. They have to make very difficult decisions about who they treat because they cannot cope with the sheer number of [wounded] people are coming," he said. "They are running out of medical equipment. The fuel is running out."

More on Israel-Gaza war

Israeli military spokesman Lt Col Jonathan Conricus said in a video briefing on X, formerly known as Twitter, that "we don't want hospitals, or the whole of Gaza, to run out of fuel".

But he advised Unrwa to ask Hamas to hand over some of the hundreds of thousands of litres of fuel that the military claims is being stored in a dozen tanks near the border with Egypt.

"There is enough for many days for hospitals and water pumps to run," he added. "Only the priorities are different. Hamas prefers to have all of the fuel for its war-fighting capabilities, leaving civilians without it."

Asked to comment on the allegation, the UN's regional humanitarian chief, Lynn Hastings, told the BBC: "We don't have any information about other fuel being available for Hamas to access."

"I know that is a concern of the Israelis, and quite rightly. It is something that we are trying to address with the Israelis to be able to bring in enough fuel for the humanitarian operations."

Hospitals are struggling to keep incubators for 130 premature babies running because of the fuel shortage

Ms Hastings warned that without fuel for their back-up generators Gaza's hospitals would no longer be able to care for about 1,000 patients receiving kidney dialysis treatment, 130 premature babies in incubators, and intensive care patients on ventilators.

Gaza's water desalinisation and pumping stations would also cease to function, she said.

"There is very, very little clean drinking water available now, which means people are resorting to drinking dirty or salinated water, or both."

"It also means that the sanitation system is blocked up, because there is no electricity to pump sewage into the sea. We are expecting the streets to have sewage overflow onto them imminently."

Ms Hastings also complained in a separate statement that the Israeli military was continuing to warn people in Gaza City to evacuate when they had nowhere to go or were unable to move.

"When the evacuation routes are bombed, when people north as well as south are caught up in hostilities, when the essentials for survival are lacking, and when there are no assurances for return, people are left with nothing but impossible choices," she warned.

In a statement, the Israeli military accused Hamas of using civilians as human shields, and stopping them from evacuating south.

"As we have seen in the past, they use a variety of methods including roadblocks," it said.

Map of Gaza showing the zone in the north which Israeli authorities have ordered civilians to evacuate by moving south of the Wadi Gaza.
The United Nations once again failed to pass a resolution addressing the violent conflict between Israel and Hamas.

The U.N. Security Council rejected resolutions Wednesday from both the U.S. and Russia regarding the conflict, angering diplomats committed to addressing the matter on an international level.

"As elected members of this council, we also represent the rest of the international community, and we have a duty and an obligation to act," Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier told the council. "There is no time to waste."

ISRAEL WITHHOLDING VISAS FOR UN OFFICIALS AFTER HAMAS COMMENTS: 'TEACH THEM A LESSON'

The U.S.-backed resolution would have explicitly affirmed Israel's right to defend itself and called for humanitarian aid to Gaza.

This resolution received support from 10 out of 15 council member states, but was ultimately vetoed by Russia and China.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Russia's resolution called for "humanitarian cease-fire" in Gaza and would have condemned both the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks launched by Hamas and Israel's "indiscriminate attacks" on Palestinian civilians.

NETANYAHU SPOKESWOMAN CALLS OUT UN SECRETARY-GENERAL FOR MIND-BOGGLING REMARKS: THIS IS INSANITY

Smokes rise in the city of Beit Hanoun which is seen from Sderot as the Israeli airstrikes continue in Sderot, Israel.

The resolution failed to pass after only four of the 15 voting nations supported the Russian draft  nine abstained from voting while the U.S. and United Kingdom voted against.

The back-to-back failures are only the council's latest. Last week, a separate Russian resolution failed to pass, and a Brazilian resolution was vetoed by the U.S.

Tensions between Israel and the United Nations are heightened after a series of comments about Hamas led to U.N. visas being denied.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Tuesday during a meeting of the Security Council the terrorist attacks against Israel Oct. 7 "did not happen in a vacuum."

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

President Biden, left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Supporters of Israel took offense to the assertion, and critics claimed the U.N. was blaming the Jewish state for the slaughter of its own civilians by Hamas.

Simultaneously, Russia, China, North Korea and other global powers in diplomatic tension with the West have pointed the finger at U.S. interventionism in the region as a cause of the violence.

Russian President Vladimir Putin previously said "without solving fundamental political issues, the main of which is the creation of a sovereign Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, it is impossible to solve the problem as a whole."





Original article source: UN fails again to pass resolution on Israel-Hamas violence
By Simon Lewis

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Overly stringent checks on trucks at the Rafah crossing from Egypt into Gaza were slowing the flow of humanitarian aid to a "dribble" as hunger grows among Palestinians there, U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) Executive Director Cindy McCain told Reuters on Thursday.

The Rafah crossing, which is controlled by Egypt and does not border Israel, has become the main point of aid delivery since Israel imposed a "total siege" of Gaza in retaliation for an attack by Hamas militants from the coastal strip on Oct. 7.

The United States is leading negotiations with Israel, Egypt and the U.N. to try to create a sustained delivery mechanism for aid to Gaza. They are wrangling over procedures for inspecting aid and bombardments on the Gaza side of the border.

"Weve gotten a few  a dribble, just a dribble  of trucks in," McCain said in an interview. "We need to get a large amount in. We need safe, unfettered access into Gaza so that we can feed and make sure that people dont starve to death, because thats whats happening."

While there have been some limited deliveries of food, water and medicine since Saturday, no fuel has been allowed in. Israel is concerned about the possible diversion of fuel deliveries by Hamas.

Three WFP trucks carrying about 60 tons of food - enough to feed 200,000 people for a day - entered Gaza on Saturday. One additional WFP truck has crossed since then, according to the agency.

The Palestinian Red Crescent said on Thursday it had received 74 aid trucks.

The daily average of trucks allowed into Gaza prior to the hostilities was about 500, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Thursday.

The U.N. agency providing aid to Palestinian civilians, UNRWA, has almost exhausted its fuel reserves and has begun significantly reducing its operations, he said.

McCain, who visited Egypt and met with officials, said each truck has to offload its cargo at a checkpoint for inspection, then reload it when the check is complete.

"The bureaucracy is insane," McCain said, adding that while she understood checks were needed to ensure arms and ammunition were not being smuggled, it should be easier to get food in.

The government of Egypt did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. officials, including Special Envoy David Satterfield, who is in the region, are working to improve the process, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters on Thursday.

"We need to speed up the inspection regime, and we're working to do that," Miller said.

WFP needs to raise $100 million to feed over a million people in Gaza to the end of this year, McCain said, amid a wider crisis in funding humanitarian aid caused by multiple emergencies around the world, rising food prices due to Russia's war in Ukraine and what McCain called "donor fatigue."

In Washington to meet with U.S. officials and lawmakers, McCain said she has heard concerns that aid could be diverted by Hamas militants, but said WFP has systems in place to make sure aid gets to those who need it.

"It's a war zone. Things are going to happen. And so I can't say 100% that nothing's going to wind up in the hands of the bad guys. But we will do everything in our power to make sure it doesn't," she said.

(Reporting by Simon Lewis; additional reporting by Aidan Lewis and Michelle Nichols; editing by Grant McCool and Jonathan Oatis)
UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Iran's Foreign Minster Hossein Amirabdollahian warned at the United Nations on Thursday that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesn't end then the United States will "not be spared from this fire."

"I say frankly to the American statesmen, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome (an)expansion of the war in the region. But if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire," he told a meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the Middle East.

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, which rules Gaza, in retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack that killed 1,400 people and saw hundreds taken hostage. Israel has struck Gaza from the air, imposed a siege and is preparing a ground invasion. Palestinian authorities say more than 7,000 have been killed.

Hamas has told Iran that it was ready to release civilian hostages, adding that the world should push for the release of 6,000 Palestinians in Israeli prisons, Amirabdollahian said.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey. Naturally, the release of the 6,000 Palestinian prisoners is another necessity and responsibility of the global community," he said.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols and Parisa Hafezi; editing by Susan Heavey and Chizu Nomiyama)
Russia's United Nations Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya raises his hand as he votes against a new U.S. resolution over the conflict between Israel and Palestinians, which was vetoed in the U.N. Security Council, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. Security Council failed again Wednesday to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions.

The council is the U.N.s most powerful body, charged with maintaining international peace and security, but its divisions have left it impotent and scrambling to try to find a resolution with acceptable language.

The resolution drafted by the United States, Israels closest ally, would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza.

In Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council, 10 countries voted in favor, Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates voted against, and Brazil and Mozambique abstained. The resolution was not adopted because permanent council members Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution, which was then put to a vote, would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and unequivocally condemned Hamas Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza.

In that vote, four countries voted in favor  Russia, China, United Arab Emirates and Gabon. The United States and United Kingdom voted against, and nine countries abstained. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

The failure of the two resolutions followed the councils rejections last week of a Russian resolution that didnt mention Hamas and also failed to get nine yes votes and a widely supported Brazilian resolution vetoed by the United States that would have condemned the Hamas attacks and all violence against civilians and called for humanitarian pauses.

After the votes, Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, speaking on behalf of the 10 elected members of the council serving two-year terms, announced they will be working on a new proposal in the coming days.

As elected members of this council, we also represent the rest of the international community and we have a duty and an obligation to act, she told the council. There is no time to waste.

Before the vote, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council that last week she had said diplomacy needed to play out before it approved a resolution. She pointed to action by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, President Joe Biden, and regional leaders that led to the opening of the Rafah crossing from Egypt to Gaza to the delivery of some desperately needed humanitarian aid, though much, much more help is needed as well as the release of four of the more than 200 hostages taken from Israel.

Thomas-Greenfield called this moment a test for the international community and for the council. She accused Russia of introducing a resolution at the last minute in bad faith with no consultations, and urged members to vote for the strong and balanced U.S. text.

Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia countered that an immediate humanitarian cease-fire is needed to de-escalate the conflict and reduce the bloodshed and shocking Palestinian casualties. He called the U.S. draft politicized and claimed the United States doesnt want the Security Council to have any influence on a possible Israeli ground offensive that would risk provoking an even larger-scale conflict in the region and possibly even beyond.

After the vote, Chinas U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun said the U.S. draft contained many elements that went beyond humanitarian needs and were deeply divisive. He called it evasive on the most urgent issue of ending the fighting and said it failed to reflect the worlds strong calls for a cease-fire.

United Arab Emirates Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh, the Arab representative on the council who voted against the U.S. resolution and for the Russian draft, said the U.N. and humanitarian organizations have made clear that what is essential is a humanitarian cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and sustained humanitarian access to Gaza.

At a council meeting on the war Tuesday that heard nearly 90 speakers, there were dozens of statements imploring this council to assign the same value to Palestinian life as it does to Israeli life, Nusseibeh said. We cannot allow any equivocation on this point.

Israels U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan thanked the U.S. and other nations that supported its resolution for condemning savage genocidal terrorists while standing up for the values of freedom and security.

Those who voted against the resolution showed the world the Security Council is incapable of condemning terrorists and cannot confirm the right to self -defense of the victim of these heinous crimes.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, told the Associated Press after the vote its disgusting the Security Council is not shouldering its responsibility to stop the war."

You do not start by killing the people and then say that I want to deal with the situation, he said. We need to save lives.  That is the most urgent priority.

With the Security Council still paralyzed, the Palestinians are turning to the 193-member General Assembly where there are no vetoes  just as Ukraine did after Russia's February 2022 invasion. The assembly's emergency special session opens Thursday, with 106 speakers on the list, and Arab nations have circulated a draft resolution which Mansour said he expects to be put to a vote on Friday afternoon.

The draft resolution calls for an immediate cease-fire, demands that Israel rescind its order for Gazans to move from the north to the south, calls for maximum restraint, and demands that essential goods including food, water and medicine are provided in the Gaza Strip.

___

Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
By Nidal al-Mughrabi

GAZA (Reuters) -The U.N. agency providing aid to Palestinian civilians in besieged Gaza warned it may have to shut down operations shortly if no fuel reaches the enclave, amid an increasingly desperate need for shelter, water, food and medical services.

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations in the Islamist Hamas-ruled enclave that has been under Israeli bombardment for almost three weeks.

"If fuel is not received into Gaza, UNRWA will be forced to significantly reduce and in some cases bring its humanitarian operations across the Gaza Strip to a halt. The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.

Israel has refused to let in fuel with aid shipments, saying it could be seized by Hamas.

More than 613,000 people made homeless by the war between Israel and Iran-backed Hamas are sheltering in 150 UNRWA facilities across the shattered territory, one of the world's most densely populated places.

"In the last 24 hours another three UNRWA staff members have been killed, bringing the total to 38 staff killed," said UNRWA.

The enclave is reeling from unrelenting Israeli air strikes, triggered by a deadly cross-border rampage into southern Israeli communities by Hamas militants on Oct. 7.

Israel says the Hamas operation killed some 1,400 people. Gaza's health ministry said on Thursday that more than 7,028 Palestinians had been killed in air strikes since then.

The death toll is likely to rise if Israel launches a widely expected ground offensive aimed at annihilating Hamas, whose fighters it says are enmeshed in the population as cover.

Palestinians in Gaza said air strikes had pounded the territory again overnight and people living in its central area, near the Bureij refugee camp and east of the village of Qarara, reported intensive tank shelling before daybreak.

Around midday on Thursday, according to officials at Nasser Hospital in the southern town of Khan Younis, Israel bombed an area not far from an UNRWA shelter for displaced people, killing at least 18 people and causing panic among the displaced.

Mahmoud Shameya, sheltering there with his wife and three children, said they lived in instant terror because of ongoing Israeli bombing.

"I urge the whole world to protect us," he said. "We sleep amid the sounds of explosions and we wake up to the sounds of explosions, the children are always blocking their ears with their hands."

IMPOVERISHMENT TURNS TO DESPERATION

Gaza's 2.3 million people were already suffering from widespread poverty and high unemployment over years of Israeli and Egyptian blockade before Israel began flattening its Palestinian neighbour in response to the Hamas assault.

Now many Gazans are sheltering in hospitals that are struggling to avoid shutdown for lack of electricity, as well as in schools, homes and existing refugee camps and in the streets after Israel warned them to leave their homes in the north.

Israel needs to agree to a full ceasefire in Gaza in order enable unimpeded deliveries of emergency aid, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said on Thursday in The Hague.

Despite increasingly critical humanitarian shortages, world powers failed at the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday to agree on a resolution to seek a lull in the fighting to deliver meaningful amounts of aid.

The World Health Organization said 26 metric tons of medical materials were waiting on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing with Gaza for approval to enter the enclave.

These supplies would cover basic health for 110,000 people, allow surgery for 3,700 trauma patients and give care for 20,000 patients needing treatment for chronic diseases, the U.N. agency said in an email to Reuters.

At the UNRWA shelter, many displaced people voiced despair at the lack of aid. They said they had heard about some U.N. trucks carrying basic supplies into Gaza but very little.

Omar Al-Namara, one of the displaced, said that in the two weeks he had stayed there he had received one 330ml bottle of water, and was sleeping on the ground. "A small bottle of water for each person. Only one since we came here, what shall I do with it? Use it as eye-drops?" he said.

Namara said some displaced people were being forced to buy gallons of water outside the compound because UNRWA wasn't giving enough for families. That water, he said, was "polluted and undrinkable, but we drink it because we are thirsty."

Nahed Abu Taaema, director of Nasser Hospital, said he had received many dead people since Wednesday night, mostly women and children. "We have received 77 martyrs, most of them women and children, since last night," Taaema said in a statement carried by Hamas's Al-Aqsa radio station.

The losses are being felt by all Gazans in every way.

The uncle of Palestinian boy Elias Abu Shammala, who was killed in an Israeli air strike, carried his body in his hands to a grave accompanied by relatives and friends. The uncle said the boy died of his wounds in hospital because officials were unable to send him outside Gaza for treatment.

The border crossing with Egypt was closed.

(Additional reporting by Stephanie van den Berg, Bart Meijer and Emma Farge; writing by Michael Georgy; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Providing humanitarian assistance in any sudden emergency, like the one currently happening in Gaza, is complex  in terms of security, logistics and financing. Often, there are simply not enough appropriate supplies available to quickly get into an acute emergency, which might be in a remote area or might be in a restricted area, as is the case with Gaza. There are often security issues that may affect an aid group's access to a population.

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The orange colour of the water becomes more apparent after rainfall

Almost a year since the water in a West Cumbrian harbour first turned orange investigations are still going on to find out why.

Six months ago Network Rail started technical surveys on land above a railway tunnel in the town.

Discoloured water started entering Whitehaven Harbour from a culvert in Queens Dock at the end of last year.

The harbour's chief executive said it was "completely unacceptable" the water remained polluted, damaging business.

Samples have already been taken by Coal Authority from water running into the harbour and along Bransty Beck.

The colour of the water is known to get worse gets after periods of heavy rainfall.

The water started to change colour towards the end of 2022

Whitehaven is within six miles of the Lake District and has 400 berths in the marina for yachts.

Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners held a meeting last week with Cumberland Council about what it has called "the dire situation" of the rust-coloured water.

It said it was "reassured" and is working with the authority to bring all the agencies together "to ensure remedial action is finally taken".

Deanne Shallcross, chief executive of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners (WHC), said: "Ourselves and Whitehaven Marina Limited (WML) remain in liaison with those agencies who have the power to stop this constant discharge of polluted water into Whitehaven Harbour.

"It is completely unacceptable that we're almost at a year since the issue first came to light," she said.

She added that she is frustrated that neither WHC nor WML can control what is discharged through the culvert into Queen's Dock.

"This is impacting negatively on our businesses, the wider harbour estate and the community as a whole, not just financial but also reputational damage. It needs to be stopped."

In April Network Rail commissioned a hydrogeological survey of land above a railway tunnel and in its immediate surrounding area on the Cumbrian Coast line.

Although the tunnel is not the source of the water, it is hoped the survey could provide better information about how polluted water could be prevented from reaching the harbour.

A Network Rail spokesperson said: "Sampling and non-intrusive investigations are underway to find the source of the discolouration.

"Once these have been completed and analysed, we will share the results with all relevant parties to plan and implement next steps."

An examination of the ground near the railway tunnel started in April

Network Rail is one of a number of organisations that have been working with Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners on this, including the Environment Agency, Coal Authority and the former Copeland Borough Council which has been superseded by Cumberland County Council.

Initial results from the Environment Agency, which took samples from Queens Dock in December 2022 and February 2023, showed "increased metals in the water".

Polluted water from an as-yet-unidentified source is entering the harbour from a culvert

Follow BBC North East & Cumbria on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.
Shamans at a Sri Lankan temple known for helping pilgrims place curses on their enemies went on strike (-)

Shamans at a Sri Lankan temple known for helping pilgrims place curses on their enemies went on strike Thursday after appeals to the lord of destruction failed to resolve a pay dispute.

Seenigama Devale, a shrine on a small islet off Sri Lanka's southern coast, hosts daily ceremonies in which celebrants guide the grinding of fiery peppers over a millstone.

The ritual offering is made to Devol, a deity whose duties involve comforting the faithful and unleashing great suffering on their enemies.

But D.M. Kumara, the temple's chief shaman, said he and his nine colleagues had halted the ceremonies to protest new rules that sharply cut their earnings.

Administrators decreed that Kumara and his colleagues could now only take 30 percent of the cash, gems and jewellery offerings made to Devol, down from the complete share they took earlier.

All 10 shamans had appealed to the deity to intervene on their behalf, he said, adding that the strike was necessary in the interim.

"We have taken our grievance to god Devol, but we are taking direct action because we have not seen immediate results," he said.

"Divine influence will take a little time to work."

The temple's interim administrator, Sarath Disenthuwa Handi, told AFP that the strike was unnecessary because celebrants would still be earning around $1,500 per month, 10 times the average salary of a new employee in the state sector.

Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, a faith that does not typically recognise deities but in local practice incorporates elements of Hindu and animistic worship.

It is common for Buddhist priests to invoke the blessings of 330 million gods during their sermons, a reference to the Hindu pantheon.

Devol is one of the more popular deities in Sri Lanka, with up to 1,500 people visiting Seenigama Devale each day, according to Handi.

aj/gle/mca
SAG-AFTRA and movie and television producers were expected to meet Wednesday, but the actors union pushed back talks to Thursday.

The union instead spent Wednesday reviewing the latest AMPTP counter offer.

We will be meeting across the table with the CEOs tomorrow, SAG-AFTRA said on X, formerly Twitter.

The sides met on Tuesday, where the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers offered an improved bonus for the most-watched streaming shows, as well as higher increases in minimum rates, Variety reports.

But the studios are still not offering a cut of total streaming revenue, which the actors union has made the centerpiece of its demands to end its 104-day strike, Variety added. Though the two sides continue to negotiate, there remains frustration on both sides that more progress has not been made.

In addition to revenue disagreements, the actors union is seeking protections against the reuse of actors likenesses by artificial intelligence technology.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
The University of West Florida Educational Research Center for Child Development received a $1.6 million, four-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education to assist Pell-eligible and Pell-recipient student-parents with the costs of childcare.

This is the largest grant the university has been awarded to offset childcare costs for students. In addition to securing the grant, UWFs Educational Research Center for Child Development also accomplished a perfect review panel.

The Child Care Access Means Parents in School, known as CCAMPIS, grant is helping parents such as Hanna Klump, whose four children are currently enrolled at the ERCCD while she works to earn her bachelors degree in exercise science.

Klump, who is a U.S. Navy veteran, decided to use her military benefits to enroll at UWF three years ago. At the time, she had one child. Since she became a UWF student, her family has grown in size. She says it wouldnt have been possible to continue her studies without the ERCCD and this grant, which allows her family to pay a small portion of the total cost of childcare for her four children.

Hanna Klump and her four children at the UWF Educational Research Center for Child Development.

The UWF grant supports ERCCD parents with 50 to 90 percent off childcare fees. The total financial support is dependent upon several personal factors, including the number of classes the student is enrolled in, how many children are enrolled at the center and whether they are the single head of the household. Students must be in good academic standing.

Visit uwf.edu/childdev for details.

Pensacola City Council recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month

One of the countrys largest private employers of persons with disabilities  the Pensacola-based Global Connections to Employment  recently kicked off celebrations of National Disability Employment Awareness Month with a proclamation from Pensacola City Council.

This years NDEAM theme is Advancing Access and Equity. NDEAM is a time to pause and recognize the contributions of Americas workers with disabilities to ensure a diverse and inclusive American workforce. The essential roles that people with disabilities are filling is creating a high demand for their skills and talent.

More than 1,500 people across the country work for GCE. In Florida, 457 team members with disabilities work at a variety of sites, most of them in the Panhandle. Approximately 360 team members with disabilities live and work in Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties, at places such as Naval Air Station Pensacola, Eglin Air Force Base and LifeView Group. GCE will host employee celebrations at all of these locations.

Visit gce.org for details.

Find ways to help: New Baptist Hospital outpatient lab to be named in honor of Sandy Sansing family

Pen Air's Snack Stock initiative raises breast cancer awareness

Pen Air Credit Union is hosting Snack Stock, a community snack collection drive benefitting Ascension Sacred Heart Cancer Centers. They are inviting the community to drop off their favorite individually wrapped snacks at any of Pen Airs 11 locations through Tuesday, Oct. 31 in commemoration of Breast Cancer Awareness.

Pen Air is committed to providing comfort and support to individuals in the fight against breast cancer and beyond. Accepted donations include individually wrapped snacks such as chips, cookies, pretzels and more. Whether participants favor sweet or salty treats, their contributions will be a source of encouragement for those affected by cancer.

Locate your closest Pen Air collection site by visiting penair.org/Locations. For details, visit penair.org/Events.

Escambia County seeks volunteers for Contractor Competency Board

The Escambia County Board of County Commissioners is seeking Escambia County residents interested in volunteering to serve on the Escambia County Contractor Competency Board. Two applicants will be appointed for service beginning in December.

Escambia County residents interested in serving on the CCB are asked to submit a resume and cover letter to Jennifer Hampton, division manager, Building Services Department, 3363 W. Park Place, Pensacola, FL., 32505 or jahampton@myescambia.com by the close of business on Friday, Oct. 27. Be aware that all information submitted will become a part of the official BCC minutes and will be subject to public records requests.

The duties of the CCB include accepting contractor applications, administering contractor examinations, and issuing and recording Certificates of Competency and renewals; making an annual report; investigating complaints against contractors; and presiding over contractor disciplinary proceedings. CCB members serve a three-year term and meet the first Wednesday morning of every month.

Members receive $50 per meeting as compensation for their services.

Visit MyEscambia.com for details.

Take part: To make a Causes submission, email giving@pnj.com.

Never miss a story: Subscribe to the Pensacola News Journal using the link at the bottom of the page under Stay Connected.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: UWF receives $1.6M to assist student-parents with childcare costs
Halloween decorations for spooky season were up in the Maine city of Lewiston but the communitys streets were mostly quiet on Thursday, a day after a gunman killed 18 people at a local bowling alley and nearby bar in an act of horror that was all too real.

Police roadblocks prevented access to some areas of the town  part of a partial lockdown announced after the 40-year-old murder suspect, Robert Card, fled the scene, leaving his car several miles away near a boat dock. He is still on the run as hundreds of police search for him.

At J&H Variety on the edge of town, one of the few stores open, local residents all seemed to know someone who had been killed or injured. Lewiston is the sort of small town where most people know most people  amplifying the awfulness of what had taken place mere hours previously.

Related: Arrest warrant issued for suspect still at large after 18 killed in Maine shootings - latest updates

Its scary. This is a tight-knit community, said Heather Thurlow. Were a little on edge because this kind of thing doesnt happen round here. It was frightening. There were 50 cop cars driving up and down.

With more than 350 law enforcement personnel involved in the search for Card, an alert was issued at 2pm on Thursday warning residents of nearby Sagadahoc county to stay inside and lock their doors  suggesting that police may be closing in on the army veteran.

That was less than 19 hours after police began receiving multiple reports of an active shooter at a bowling alley, and then at Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street.

An hour after the violence began, at 8.06pm, police released a photo of the suspect to the media and by 9.30pm had identified him as Robert Card of Bowdoin, Maine.

Robert Card. Photograph: AP

Thirty minutes later they found his white Subaru at the Pejepscot boat launch in Lisbon. The suspect had vanished. For some residents it would be the first time they locked their doors.

At J&H Variety, Hunter Karcher, 12, said his brother Justin, 22, had been shot four times and is currently in the ICU. They wont tell us anything except that he got shot four times, Karcher said.

A property manager who gave his name as Bill said the community around Lewiston was self-sufficient, showing an assault rifle in the back of his jeep.

This a community takes care of itself, he said. This is a second amendment community, and this shooting is not a firearms issue  its a mental health issue. But, he said: Its unreal and a little overwhelming.

With the suspect still at large, Bill added that, as of Thursday morning, most people are carrying [guns] now.

Card is considered armed and dangerous, and police have urged locals to be vigilant and not to approach him.

Rumors about Card are rife  that hes a survivalist, ex-Special Forces, had recently lost his job. None seem to be true.

Cards family said on Wednesday evening, when the shootings occurred, that they had been helping law enforcement. Relatives have said that in recent months the veteran believed he was hearing people say things.

I have known Rob my whole life. He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking and kind person that I know. But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, his sister-in-law Katie ONeil told the Daily Beast.

Residents of Lewiston remained terrified, and mystified as to where Card might be.

Its been sketchy, but if hes still in the area hell get purged out, Bill said, theorizing that Card may have gone inland from the coast, or taken off along the rocky coastline.

Many gave names of those killed, which have not been formally released. Residents said the dead include a delivery employee and a woman who worked at the bowling alley.

Tim Whitney, 23, said his grandmothers husband, Alan Nickerson, had been shot in the pelvis. There was a sliver of good news on a day when Lewiston joined a long list of US communities traumatized by mass shootings.

Hes doing good in the hospital, Whitney said.
The United States, Japan and South Korea issued a joint statement Wednesday strongly condemning North Korea for allegedly supplying Russia with munitions for use against the government and people of Ukraine.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken , Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa and South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said they have confirmed several weapon deliveries have been completed and warned the weapons will have devastating effects on the death toll in Ukraine.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from the DPRK, they wrote in the statement, using the initials of North Koreas formal name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. In the face of Russias attempt to prolong the war with assistance from the DPRK, we remain resolved to support Ukraines sovereignty and its efforts to counter the effects of Russias war of aggression.

The top diplomats also warned they were deeply concerned that North Korea, in exchange for its support, could acquire nuclear or ballistic missiles from Russia.

They stressed that any arms transfers to North Korea would violate multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions, and they called on the two authoritarian nations to immediately cease all activities that violate them.

Such transfers would jeopardize the ongoing efforts of the international community to keep sensitive technologies out of the hands of actors who are working to destabilize regional security, threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as across the globe, the officials wrote.

The group added that such weapons transfers would necessitate renewed efforts to respond appropriately across all elements of our national power to the advancing DPRK [weapons of mass destruction] threat.

The joint statement comes amid heightened tensions between North Korea and the allied democratic countries.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has repeatedly warned against an increased U.S. presence in the nearby sea and has characterized the uptick in coordinated military drills and fortified naval defenses as the Wests effort to temp nuclear warfare.

In response to the joint statement, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reportedly refused to comment on whether the weapons deliveries have occurred. Peskov reaffirmed the close relations with North Korea.

North Korea is our neighbor and we continue and will continue to develop close relations in all areas, he said, according to Reuters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The U.S. Defense Department announced on Oct. 26 it would provide Ukraine with another military assistance package worth around $150 million.

The aid package includes air defense capabilities, artillery shells, anti-tank weapons, and other equipment needed to repel Russian aggression.

The U.S. will send Ukraine additional ammunition for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS), High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), artillery, and small arms.

Ukraine's military will also receive U.S. air defense missiles of AIM-9M and Stinger types, Javelin anti-armor systems, night vision devices, and cold weather gear, among other things.

"The Biden Administration calls on Congress to meet its commitment to the people of Ukraine by passing additional funding to ensure Ukraine continues to have what it needs to defend itself against Russia's brutal war of choice," reads the Pentagon's press release.

"Security assistance for Ukraine is a smart investment in our national security. It helps to prevent a larger conflict in the region and deter potential aggression elsewhere while strengthening our defense industrial base and creating highly skilled jobs for the American people."

The aid package announcement comes a day after Republican Congressman Mike Johnson was elected as the new House Speaker, filling the seat left empty for weeks following the ousting of Kevin McCarthy.

One of ex-President Donald Trump's most loyal supporters in Congress, Johnson has criticized the delivery of aid to Ukraine. In May 2022, Johnson voted against a $40 billion aid package to Ukraine, claiming that his focus lies with solving domestic affordability challenges.

Read also: Biden all in on aid to Ukraine, yet House remains an issue

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The US has announced the allocation of the new US$150 million military aid package for Ukraine on Thursday, 26 October, as reported in the statement by Antony Blinken , US Secretary of State.

Source: European Pravda

Details: Blinken remarked that air defence systems, as well as artillery, anti-tank and other systems, which "will increase Ukraines capability to protect its territory from the Russian offensive actions continuing the counteroffensive against the Russian forces" will be included in the new package.

This aid package is 49th within the framework of the Presidential Drawdown Authority mechanism since February 2022. Thanks to it, the Ukrainian military receives the equipment from American storages.

The Pentagon specified that the military aid package includes:

additional projectiles for the NASAMS air defence systems, AIM-9M missiles for air defence, Stinger MANPADS;

projectiles for HIMARS systems;

155 mm and 105 mm artillery shells;

anti-tank TOW missiles and Javelin anti-tank missile launchers;

two million rounds for small arms;

night vision devices;

explosives;

winter equipment and components and other auxiliary equipment.

Background:

The latest American military aid package was announced on 11 October at the Ukraines Defence Contact Group meeting (Ramstein format); it was worth US$200 million.

Total amount of US security aid for Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian full-scale invasion has been about US$44 billion.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon still has about US$5 billion of funding for the military aid for Ukraine, approved by the Congress, due to a mistake in assessment of the equipment detected this summer.

Amid the resistance of radical Republicans who oppose the support of Kyiv by armament supplies, the White House turned to the Congress with the request for almost US$105 billion for financing the aid for Ukraine, Israel and the security of the US borders in a single package on 20 October.

This budget request to the US Congress provides for about US$61.4 billion for Ukraine, out of which US$46.1 billion are defence spendings, and US$11.8 billion  direct budget support.

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(Bloomberg) -- The US Export-Import Bank is being eyed as a venue for boosting investment in Australian critical minerals development to supply components needed in electric vehicles, wind turbines and other technology, Australias resource minister said.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The ex-im bank and other public investment vehicles in the US and Australia can be a means to de-risk some of these projects and then crowd in the private investment that we really want to take hold, Madeleine King said Wednesday in a roundtable with Bloomberg News in Washington.

Critical minerals have been a top focus as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Washington and met with President Joe Biden Wednesday at the White House. The US and allies have sought Western alternatives to source critical minerals and expand clean energy supply chains beyond China, the worlds dominant provider.

Read More: US, Australia Boost Work on Critical Minerals to Check China

Public finance can help catalyze low-volume critical minerals ventures that are exposed to volatility risk, King said. Those projects can be challenged because theres a dominant market player that can change the price of its commodities in basically an instant, and the smaller size of deposits are not what big investors want to invest in, King said.

So weve got to think imaginatively in how governments can incentivize that investment, she said.

The US and Australias shared history and longstanding investment ties can facilitate the work, as the two countries identify projects that are important for our respective supply chains, and derive mutual benefit from them, King said. To produce all the things we need to transform our economies, no one can do it alone.

For instance, King said, Australias great natural endowment of lithium and other critical minerals is an opportunity to supply the US as it boosts clean energy manufacturing with expanded federal support from last years sweeping climate law. And in Australia, minerals processing to refine those materials is another rich source of potential jobs.

Were not going to waste the opportunity of what the world needs, and more than just extracting it, we want to make sure we go further along that value chain into processing, King said.

King, who last year told Bloomberg that breaking Chinas grip on the critical minerals supply chain was a pipe dream, said China has a 20- to 30-year head start in developing the supply chain for the green energy transition. This largely occurred, she said, as Western democracies turned away from mining. But now, because we know we need these critical minerals and rare earths for the green energy transition, we want to make sure we can all get hold of them, King said separately in a Bloomberg Television interview.

King, whose country just announced a A$2 billion ($1.3 billion) expansion in critical minerals financing, said investment in middle-income countries also will be essential. China, which is well-known for investing directly in projects across the globe, also invests significantly in building out costly infrastructure for those sites and facilities  a move that benefits local communities.

A Western-based approach for critical mineral investments abroad will bring sustainability standards to levels that arent always a focal point of China, King said. Cooperating and collaborating in places such as Africa for mining and investment will benefit communities and create more ethical products that will attract Western businesses, she said.

--With assistance from Enda Curran, Kailey Leinz and Joe Mathieu.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Federal authorities warned Thursday of the increasing threat posed by violent extremists and lone offenders on U.S. soil amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

In a joint news release, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said the threat level has increased since their initial alert earlier this month.

Since DHS and FBI issued the 10 October Public Service Announcement, the volume and frequency of threats to Americans, especially those in the Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities in the United States, have increased, raising our concern that violent extremists and lone offenders motivated by or reacting to ongoing events could target these communities, the federal agencies said in their joint news bulletin.

The federal agencies said they have seen hoax bomb threats targeting houses of worship and violent rhetoric online encouraging attacks against the Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities across the country.

The bulletin noted the recent death of Wadea Al-Fayoume, 6, who was killed by his landlord when he stabbed him and severely wounded his mother in an attack earlier this month, an incident that is being investigated as a hate crime.

The federal agencies also said in their bulletin that other terrorist organizations such as the Islamic State (ISIS) and al Qaeda have called for Hamas to conduct attacks on U.S. bases, airports, battleships and embassies in predominantly Muslim countries, as well as attacks on Jewish communities in Europe and the U.S. The agencies noted that Iranian state media is spreading misinformation online about the conflict as well.

Tensions between Israel and the Palestinian territories have long been a source of calls for violence against Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities. This history, coupled with the current widespread sharing of graphic and disturbing content related to this conflict, increases the risk of incitement to violence in the United States, the bulletin said. We therefore urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any threats of violence or suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Its been more than two weeks since Hamass surprise attack against Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people in Israel. About 200 others were taken hostage by the militant group.

In response, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of more than 7,000 people and injuries to more than 18,000 more, according to a Thursday update from the Gaza Health Ministry. President Biden on Wednesday warned against accepting death toll figures from the Hamas-run ministry.

Biden has repeatedly reaffirmed his support for Israel and its right to respond to Hamas with force. But he has also warned that Israel needs a clear strategy as it prepared a ground offensive into the Gaza Strip.

The House approved a resolution Wednesday night that expressed support for Israel and condemned the Hamas attack. Nine Democrats and one Republican voted against the measure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
(The Hill)  Federal authorities warned on Thursday of the increasing threat posed by violent extremists and lone offenders on U.S. soil amid the ongoing war between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas.

In a joint news release, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) said the threat level has increased since their initial alert earlier this month.

Since DHS and FBI issued the 10 October Public Service Announcement, the volume and frequency of threats to Americans, especially those in the Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities in the United States, have increased, raising our concern that violent extremists and lone offenders motivated by or reacting to ongoing events could target these communities, the federal agencies said in their joint news bulletin.

The suspect in the fatal Maine shootings is still at large. Residents are sheltering in place

The federal agencies said they have seen hoax bomb threats targeting houses of worship and violent rhetoric online encouraging attacks against the Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities across the country.

The bulletin noted the recent death of Wadea Al-Fayoume, 6, who was killed by his landlord who stabbed him and severely wounded his mother in an attack earlier this month, an incident that is being investigated as a hate crime.

The federal agencies also said in their bulletin that other terrorist organizations such as the Islamic State (ISIS) and al-Qaida have called for Hamas to conduct attacks on U.S. bases, airports, battleships, and embassies in predominantly Muslim countries, as well as attacks on Jewish communities in Europe and the U.S. The agencies noted that Iranian state media is spreading misinformation online about the conflict as well.

Tensions between Israel and the Palestinian territories have long been a source of calls for violence against Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities. This history, coupled with the current widespread sharing of graphic and disturbing content related to this conflict, increases the risk of incitement to violence in the United States, the bulletin said. We therefore urge everyone to remain vigilant and to report any threats of violence or suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Its been two weeks since Hamas surprise attack against Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people in Israel. About 200 others were taken hostage by the militant group.

In response, Israel has launched a series of airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of more than 7,000 people and injuries to more than 18,000 more, according to a Thursday update from the Gaza Health Ministry. President Biden on Wednesday warned against accepting death toll figures from the Hamas-run ministry.

Biden has repeatedly reaffirmed his support for Israel, and its right to respond to Hamas with force. But he has also warned that Israel needs a clear strategy as it prepares a ground offensive into the Gaza Strip.

The House approved a resolution Wednesday night that expressed support for Israel and condemned the Hamas attack. Nine Democrats and one Republican voted against the measure.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
UAW President Shawn Fain, shown at a Chicago rally earlier this month, hailed a tentative agreement with Ford as an historic win (Jim Vondruska)

The US auto workers union reached a tentative agreement with Ford late Wednesday, a breakthrough in a 41-day stoppage on Detroit's "Big Three" car manufacturers.

The deal, which rank-and-file workers must still approve in a vote, includes a 25 percent wage increase for hourly employees, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union said.

Other key elements include guaranteed cost-of-living adjustments; an elimination of different pay levels or "tiers" that disadvantage junior employees; and a right to strike over plant closures.

"For months we've said that record profits mean record contracts," said UAW President Shawn Fain in a statement. "And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered."

Ford confirmed the agreement, saying "we are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our US operations."

Also cheering was US President Joe Biden, who hailed an "historic accord," saying "I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight."

Biden made history in September as the first US president to stand on a picket line as he endorsed the UAW's call for "record" contracts in light of record auto industry profits.

The wage increase in the tentative agreement is somewhat lower than the 40 percent sought by Fain when the UAW launched the strike on September 15 in the first ever simultaneous stoppage of Detroit's Big Three (Ford, General Motors and Stellantis).

However, it is much above the nine percent increase Ford initially proposed in August.

"This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry," Fain said, while stressing that the final decision rests with members.

"We're going to let that democratic process take its course," said Fain, calling the rank-and-file "the highest authority."

Fain said the ratification process will include detailed online presentations and regional meetings.

After rejecting a tentative agreement struck by UAW negotiators, workers at Mack Trucks voted to go on strike earlier this month.

- Expanding strike -

While the initial UAW strike targeted three plants with just 12,700 workers walking out, the union has gradually expanded the action in the ensuing weeks as it has sought a better deal.

More than 45,000 workers were on strike prior to the Ford deal. The UAW has about 146,000 auto workers in the United States.

In just the last two days, the UAW escalated the strike at both Stellantis and GM, taking down key factories in Michigan and Texas that make some of the companies' most profitable vehicles.

Both GM and Stellantis are currently offering 23 percent wage hikes. Fain has argued the companies need to sweeten the deal further in light of union concessions after bankruptcy reorganizations more than a decade ago.

Following a tentative agreement, labor unions sometimes do not end a strike until the accord is ratified by members.

But in a twist, the UAW said Ford workers would return to their shifts to apply pressure to GM and Stellantis.

"This is a strategic move to get the best deal possible," said UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, adding that "the last thing" GM and Stellantis want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind."

jmb/tjj
As an unprecedented forest summit opens in Africa, a global movement of indigenous activists is pushing to halt all industrial and oil exploration in the worlds principal forests  an expansion largely funded by the U.S. and other Western countries.

Campaigners in countries from Peru to Indonesia argue oil exploration is a threat to the worlds climate, both through drilling itself and the deforestation it causes  a threat, they say, that is going unaddressed.

We must act together and with determination to preserve the 350 million hectares of tropical forests, Republic of Congo President Denis Sassou Nguesso said in a welcome statement opening the Three Basins Summit, which began Thursday in Brazzaville.

The summit unites politicians from the worlds leading forest nations  including Peru, Brazil, Indonesia and the Democratic Republic of Congo  with representatives of environmental nonprofits in an effort to create a global alliance of ecosystems.

The three basins referenced in the conferences name are South Americas Amazon Basin, Central Africas Congo Basin and the Borneo-Mekong Basin that spans peninsular and island Southeast Asia.

The problems facing global forests are stark, despite years of international agreements intended to stop them. In 2022, 4.1 million hectares of forest  an area a bit bigger than Maryland  were cut down worldwide.

More than 96 percent of the land cleared last year was in tropical forests  whose incredible biodiversity also translates to vast emissions of planet-warming carbon dioxide when they are cleared, as well as the loss of landscapes that would naturally pull greenhouse gasses from the atmosphere.

Activists from a coalition of indigenous and environmental groups argued that a key element of the problems had been left off the summits agenda: a campaign of oil and gas drilling that had left ecosystems like the Amazon forest moving toward the point of no return, said Fany Kuiru Castro, who heads COICA, a union of 512 indigenous people in the Great Basin of the Amazon.

Activists from the coalition argued Thursday that the governments of the countries represented at the conference are promoting destructive oil and mining exploration in the same forests they are meeting to save  making it a two-faced summit, according to Rainforest Foundation UK.

As these governments meet to discuss how carbon and biodiversity markets can help create financial incentives for forest protection, the campaigners argued, they are opening the worlds tropical forest up to a familiar threat: industrial exploitation, much of it financed by the very countries with the loudest positions on tropical forest protection.

Despite statements from the U.S. and Europe about the importance of protecting these forests, U.S. firms and the U.S. government are continuing to back oil development there.

More than two-thirds of the oil and gas pulled from the Amazon makes its way to the United States  and 66 percent of that goes to California.

A majority of the investment into the expanding oil and gas industry in the Amazon also comes from six U.S.-based banks and their subsidiaries, according to a July report by environmental research group Stand.earth.

In May, the U.S. governments Export-Import approved a $100 million loan to Indonesia  the biggest country in the Borneo-Mekong basin  to expand a massive oil refinery on the island of Borneo, the site of both dense forest and rapid deforestation.

In September, the Democratic Republic of Congo announced it had awarded gas exploration blocks in the Congo basin to two U.S.-based firms.

And this may only be the beginning.

According to a report released Tuesday by nonprofit Earth Insight, oil and gas concessions now cover nearly a fifth of the three basins surviving tropical forests  or, in the case of the Amazon and Congo Basins, nearly a quarter.

Those concessions, the report argues, threaten the lives and livelihood of more than 200 million people, as well as rich  and carbon-dense  natural landscapes.

Carbon dioxide is released by the burning of living things like trees or by the residues of once-living things like oil, coal and gas, contributing to climate change.

This petroleum push comes as international organizations increasingly urge a full stop to fossil fuel exploration due to the threat it poses to the global climate.

New oil drilling in general represents such a risk. In 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA), a leading global energy watchdog, said new drilling must halt to keep the planet from devastating levels of heating  a warning that largely went ignored by oil companies and national governments. The IEA this year softened that warning to an advisory against long-lead-time drilling projects.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called on world leaders in June to target the polluted heart of the climate crisis: the fossil fuel industry if they are to avert levels of global heating that reach 2.8 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial times  or nearly three times the amount that has already occurred.

And in September, he offered pointed criticism of national governments for the $7 trillion in subsidies they give to the oil and gas industry to produce fuels that are destabilizing the climate.

But campaigners from the coalition of indigenous and environmental groups noted that even clean energy can put tropical landscapes at risk. The growing electric vehicle (EV) industry is another source of concern. In Indonesia  which seeks to exploit its massive nickel reserves to meet growing global demand for EVs  more than half of the countrys forests overlap with potential mine sites.

Added to the risk of oil emissions is the additional climate risk posed by the deforestation that is carried out directly for oil and gas drilling and is enabled by those activities  as illegal timber cutters, gold miners and land colonists spread along the fishbone of petroleum exploitation roads.

Thanks to these forces, the Amazon  once a great sink, or consumer, of global carbon emissions  is losing the ability to store carbon dioxide, the principal greenhouse gas warming the planet, Paulo Artaxo, a professor of environmental physics at the University of Sao Paulo, told reporters Tuesday.

If current trends of mining, logging and oil drilling hold, the Amazon will soon begin to release carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere, Artaxo added.

In an emotional appeal to journalists on Tuesday, indigenous leader Kuiru Castro recalled the depredations of the early 20th-century industrial rubber boom, which killed an estimated 100,000 indigenous Amazonians, and reduced once-prosperous peoples to penury.

Today that continues in very grave form with fossil fuels, she said. The deforestation has to stop. The degradation has to stop. The exploitation of fossil fuels has to stop, she said.

As a bright spot, she noted the left-leaning government of Colombia  a country with substantial oil reserves and Amazon holdings  joined the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance in April, something she called an example of positive leadership in the region.

The Amazon, she said, isnt just a place on the planet  it is a great maloca  the traditional longhouse and sacred space of Amazonian peoples.

Our obligation to defend it isnt just about resistance  it is an act of great love for life, and also for the generations that are coming after, she said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Congressman Jamaal Bowman denied pulling the fire alarm to stall a vote on a funding bill to avert a government shutdown (CHIP SOMODEVILLA)

A Democratic congressman admitted a misdemeanor charge of deliberately setting off a fire alarm at the US Capitol complex that forced the evacuation of an office building ahead of a crucial vote.

Jamaal Bowman appeared in DC Superior Court on Wednesday, where he agreed to pay a $1,000 fine and write an apology to police in return for the charges being withdrawn in three months, according to court documents and a statement from the New York lawmaker.

Bowman, 47, said he was rushing from his office to make the September 30 vote on a funding bill aimed at averting a government shutdown and pulled the alarm in an attempt open a door he couldn't get through.

That caused Cannon House office block near the main Capitol building to be evacuated for an hour.

Republicans say the former school principal, who was captured on camera, was seeking to stall the vote and introduced a censure motion Wednesday to remove him from his committee assignments.

"Rep. Bowman's excuse does not pass the sniff test," House administration committee chairman Bryan Steil said in a statement.

"After pulling the fire alarm, Rep. Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol Police officers and had every opportunity to alert USCP of his mistake."

Bowman, a combative progressive who is unafraid to have public rows with his opponents in the halls of Congress, has become a favorite sparring partner for Republicans.

He said in a statement he was grateful that police "agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings."

"I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," he said.

The House approved the 45-day stopgap funding bill -- with a yes vote from Bowman -- shortly after the drama came to an end.

Hakeem Jeffries, the leader of the House Democrats, stood by the congressman and slammed Republicans with "their hair on fire" over his conduct, while not showing outrage over the January 6, 2021 assault on the Capitol by supporters of former president Donald Trump.

"Many of them who are having a panic attack publicly about Jamaal Bowman have actually defended or refused to comment on the violent mob on January 6," he told reporters.

ft/acb
U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai speaks during the Axios BFD event in New York

By David Lawder

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has dropped longstanding U.S. digital trade demands in World Trade Organization talks in order to give Congress room to regulate big tech firms, her office said on Wednesday.

The U.S. is withdrawing proposals made in 2019 by the Trump administration insisting that WTO e-commerce rules allow free cross-border data flows and prohibit national requirements for data localization and reviews of software source code.

The decision angered some lawmakers and business groups, who said it would put U.S. firms at a disadvantage.

The withdrawals were made in Geneva during a meeting of the WTO's Joint Statement Initiative on E-Commerce, with a U.S. official saying that the U.S. was reviewing its approach to trade rules in sensitive areas such as data and source code.

The official said U.S. policy must take into account regulatory objectives, "balancing the right to regulate in the public interest and the need to address anticompetitive behavior in the digital economy," according to a transcript seen by Reuters.

The USTR move aligns with the Biden administration's desire to strengthen regulation of large technology firms and the direction of digital trade negotiations in the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) group of Asian countries.

'WIN FOR CHINA'

But Senator Ron Wyden, the Oregon Democrat who leads the Senate Finance Committee, called the move "a win for China, plain and simple," saying it would strengthen the Chinese model of internet censorship and government surveillance.

"USTRs unilateral decision to abandon any leverage against Chinas digital expansionism, and to oppose policies championed by allies like Australia, Japan, the U.K. and Korea, directly contradicts its mission as delegated by Congress," said Wyden, who has long championed big U.S. tech firms, including Intel, the largest for-profit employer in Oregon.

USTR spokesman Sam Michel said many countries were examining their approaches to data and source code, and how trade rules can affect them.

"In order to provide enough policy space for those debates to unfold, the United States has removed its support for proposals that might prejudice or hinder those domestic policy considerations," Michel said in a statement to Reuters, adding that the U.S. would remain "an active participant" in the WTO e-commerce talks.

The move was applauded by some lawmakers who want to rein in large tech firms, including Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, who said Tai was rejecting efforts by Big Tech lobbyists to use trade deals to thwart regulation.

"We need to make clear that digital rules favoring Big Tech monopolies are a non-starter for the U.S. in any trade agreement, including IPEF, she said.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce said the digital trade principles being dropped by USTR won overwhelming congressional support as part of the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade and have helped to make U.S. tech firms "the envy of the world." The top business lobby group urged a reversal by USTR.

"These digital trade rules prevent countries around the world from using regulation to lock out American companies and their workers from their markets," said John Murphy, the Chamber's senior vice president for international policy.

(Reporting by David Lawder; editing by Diane Craft)
In response to a question on increasing assistance to Ukraine, Mike Johnson, the new speaker of the US House of Representatives, said he would agree on this "under certain conditions".

Source: NBC News

Quote: "We are going to have conditions on that so were working through.

We want accountability and we want objectives that are clear from the White House. But were going to have those discussions. It will be very productive."

Background:

On 25 October, the US House of Representatives elected a new speaker, Mike Johnson, after several weeks of contemplation. He is a representative of the Republican majority and a supporter of former President Donald Trump.

The US House of Representatives cannot pass new laws, including those on aid to Ukraine, without a speaker. The interim US federal budget will last only until mid-November, so to avoid a government shutdown, the Congress must resolve this issue. That is why the speaker of the House of Representatives is also important for Kyiv.

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Relatives of four dual American Israeli citizens Thursday said securing the release of 220 hostages held by Hamas should be the priority agenda for the international community.

The family members, who traveled from Israel to visit members of Congress in Washington, thanked President Biden for prioritizing their plight.

I feel its upon us to make sure that there is continued pressure on members of Congress and the Senate to keep this topic front and center and to try to come to a resolution of this situation as quickly as possible, Jeffrey Yehuda Beinin said. His daughter, Liat Beinin, and her husband were kidnapped from the southern Israeli community of Kibbutz Nir Oz.

Beinin said that he believes his son-in-law, a volunteer security officer with the kibbutz, was abducted and taken into Gaza early on in Hamass Oct. 7 assault, given that no traces of his son-in-laws blood have been found in his home or the surrounding area.

So the assumption is that hes been abducted to Gaza, he said.

Beinin said his daughter was kidnapped from her home.

Hamas terrorists got to my daughters house and abducted her and set the house on fire, they killed the dog, he said.

Top Stories from The Hill

Hamas, recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and European Union, has released just four hostages amid negotiations involving the U.S., Israel, Qatar, Egypt and the International Red Cross. Israel says it believes 220 people are being held by the group.

The U.S. has not confirmed how many hostages are Americans, although two of the four released were dual, U.S.-Israeli citizens.

Hamas kidnapped people from communities in southern Israel in attacks that left 1,400 people, predominantly civilians, dead. The Biden administration and members of Congress in both parties have compared atrocities committed by Hamas to the worst acts of the Islamic State.

The mission to recover the hostages is extremely daunting, and unprecedented, said Rep. French Hill (R-Ark.), a co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on American Hostages and Americans Wrongfully Detained Abroad.

The task force was launched in 2021 to help guide congressional offices helping people wrongfully detained abroad by terrorist groups or foreign governments.

Hill said the scale of Hamass kidnapping, which covers people with more than two dozen nationalities, coupled with the information blackout on their captivity in the Gaza Strip makes negotiations to secure their release more likely than extradition.

Another complication is Israels aerial bombardment of Gaza. Israel says it is targeting Hamas military infrastructure, but it has resulted in the deaths of thousands of Palestinians and raised concerns that hostages may have been harmed or killed.

The U.S. has reportedly called for Israel to delay launching a ground incursion to allow more time for negotiations to recover hostages.

While Hamas said it released four hostages on humanitarian grounds, it has said that it hopes to secure the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. It views the holding of Israeli soldiers, in particular, as valuable bargaining chips to achieve their aims.

But Hamass hostages also include young children, women, elderly people and sick and disabled victims.

Two of the family members present on Capitol Hill are fathers of young men who were serving in the Israel Defense Forces when they were believed to have been taken hostage by Hamas.

Ruby Chen is the father of Itay Chen, 19; and Ronen Neutra is the father of Omar Neutra, 22, who was serving in a tank unit near the border with Gaza.

Asked if he had spoken with the administration over what could be offered to Hamas, Hill said, Weve had conversations with the administration about the steps theyre taking, but Id leave it at that.

Noam Peri, whose 79-year-old father Chaim was kidnapped from Nir Oz, was among the people who traveled to Capitol Hill. She pleaded with those listening to recognize it is individual lives at stake.

Weve made this long trip to be able to tell you these stories, because we know the numbers are staggering and no one can think of 220 people in captivity, she said.

She said those kidnapped from the small community of Nir Oz included 16 children, among them toddlers and a nursing baby.

We also know there are 25 elderly above the age of 75. No one of these people should have a moment more [in captivity]. Ive been here for the past three days meeting members of the Congress and Senate and we feel the overwhelming support and understanding and the willingness to take leadership on this humanitarian crisis in getting all the hostages back.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The United States, Japan, and South Korea issued a joint statement on Oct. 25 condemning North Korea's provision of weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine, the U.S. State Department reported.

"Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression," the statement read.

The statement was released by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken , Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin.

U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said on Oct. 13 that Russia had received shipments of North Korean weapons and ammunition following a meeting between Russian dictator Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in September.

Moscow denied signing an agreement with Pyongyang, but satellite images in early October confirmed an increase in rail traffic at the North Korean-Russian border. At the same time, media outlets reported that weapons deliveries had begun.

The U.S. believes that in return for weapons and military equipment, North Korea hopes to acquire advanced Russian technologies for its own nuclear program.

The Oct. 25 statement said that such a deal "would violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions."

Russia carried out testing of a large-scale retaliatory nuclear strike on Oct. 25, according to Kremlin reports. The alleged test coincided with Russia's withdrawal from the nuclear test ban treaty.

Read also: Ukraine war latest: Russian drone strike likely targeted Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, Zelensky says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
WASHINGTON  The U.S. Navy intends to buy its next two aircraft carriers in a single contract, but factors including delays on carriers now under construction are influencing discussions about when to begin the process.

The service bought aircraft carriers 80 and 81, the future Enterprise and Doris Miller , together in the first two-carrier contract since the Cold War. Leaders expected to see $4 billion in cost savings when the contract was signed in 2019.

Jay Stefany, the acting assistant secretary of the Navy for research, development and acquisition, told Defense News the existing two-carrier contract is achieving the cost savings expected, though Enterprise has taken a schedule hit due to the pandemic and labor and supply chain problems. Thats playing into the discussion about when to begin a contract for CVNs 82 and 83.

It is our plan to buy [82 and 83] together  plan; again, not approved yet  but plan to do it together because that provides the most effective way to buy and to build two aircraft carriers. The question on the table and in the [fiscal 2025 budget] discussions is when to start the first one, he said, noting that the second aircraft carrier would then follow four and a half years behind.

CVN 82 could begin in FY 28, 29 or 30. The decision will be known when the Navy releases its FY25 budget request in the spring.

The Navy is weighing three key factors: keeping a steady workload at shipbuilder HIIs Newport News Shipbuilding, such that no one is laid off but also there isnt too much work; affordability in the Navy budget based on the timing of other acquisition needs; and the total inventory of aircraft carriers the Navy is trying to maintain.

On the workload issue, Stefany said Enterprise is progressing well, but not necessarily as well as we planned.

Due to delays getting lead-ship Gerald R. Ford out of the yard, the Covid-19 pandemic, overall labor and supply issues, and specific challenges Newport News has faced while also building Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines, Enterprise is about a year behind schedule, he explained.

To avoid Enterprises delays spilling over to Doris Miller  which is only a few months behind schedule  were doing some unique things in the dry dock to allow us to start 81, Stefany said. Usually you would finish 80 in the dry dock, get her out, and then start 81 in the dry dock.

Instead, he said, the Navy and Newport News Shipbuilding modified the plan to allow some Doris Miller work to begin in the dry dock, pause while Enterprise is eventually floated out, and then continue work in the dry dock.

Stefany said he didnt think the issues that caused delays on Enterprise would be a threat to future CVNs 82 and 83  its just a matter of clearing out the workload at the yard before adding new work in the new two-carrier contract.

He said he doesnt expect the supplier problems that began during the pandemic to continue into the 82/83 contract. Similarly, a significant number of older, experienced workers retired at the start of the pandemic, leaving the yard to hire a lot of brand-new workers with little or no experience. While thats slowed progress on Enterprise, Stefany said these workers would be proficient by the time they started on 82 and 83.

What could still be an issue, though, is balancing new aircraft carrier construction at Newport News Shipbuilding with aircraft carrier refueling, Columbia and Virginia construction and Virginia repair work, all of which compete for people and materials.

As for the size of the carrier fleet, Stefany said the Navy already decided to extend the service life of Nimitz for another deployment cycle, a change from previous plans to decommission the first-in-class carrier in 2025.

The Navy is now looking at the second ship of the class, the Dwight D. Eisenhower. If Eisenhower is extended, theres less need to start 82 and 83 as early. Stefany said the Navy may not have a final decision on Eisenhower in time to inform the FY25 budget request and what it reveals about the 82/83 contract.
US officials are in the early stages of drawing up plans for wider evacuations of Americans across the Middle East that would potentially be carried out if conflict between Israel and Hamas forces spills out into a wider regional conflict, the White House said on Monday.

John Kirby made the announcement at a daily press briefing flanked by Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House press secretary. The National Security Council spokesman cautioned that such plans were not yet necessary, but would be ready in the event that a larger war broke out across the Middle East.

There is prudent planning, and then theres sort of the tactical-level planning right before you execute. What were talking about here is just prudent planning and thinking. There are no active efforts right now to evacuate Americans from the region, other than what were doing in Israel in providing charter flights, explained Mr Kirby.

It would be imprudent and irresponsible if we didnt have folks thinking through a broad range of contingencies and possibilities, he added. And certainly evacuations are one of those things.

It was a sign that the White House and Americas intelligence agencies are taking seriously the idea that Iran or Iranian-backed militant groups could become embroiled in the conflict in the coming days or weeks  possibly as a result of a ground invasion and formal occupation of the Gaza Strip.

Hundreds are dead on both sides as the bloodiest conflict in years has played out across Israel and Gaza over the past few weeks. Brought on by staggering carnage from a Hamas terrorist attack, the fighting has now evolved into a brutal siege of Gaza that is drawing condemnation and concern from some human rights watchers and critics of the Israeli government. A debate has raged, primarily on social media but to some extent in the news as well, over whether Israeli forces are doing enough to avoid civilian casualties in the densely populated Gaza Strip, where an estimated 60 per cent of residents are under 25 years of age.

The Biden administration has firmly placed its support behind Israels government, while openly cautioning against repeating the mistakes made by the US after 9/11. Officials including the president have also warned against treating civilians in Gaza as responsible for the violence caused by Hamas.

Progressives are pushing the Biden administration as well as Democrats in Congrses to call for a ceasefire. The US has stopped short of doing so, with Mr Kirby instead warning plainly that more civilians would be hurt or killed before the Israeli operation ends.

This is war. It is combat. It is bloody. It is ugly, and its going to be messy. And innocent civilians are going to be hurt going forward, he said at Mondays briefing. I wish I could tell you something different. I wish that that wasnt going to happen, but it is going to happen.
US prisons ban tens of thousands of books, often on the grounds of security or sexual content, a campaign group has found (JUSTIN SULLIVAN)

Tens of thousands of books are banned from US prisons, a new report said Wednesday, including a primer on drawing, a book about tying knots and textbooks teaching inmates foreign languages.

Prison authorities across the country cite vague "security" fears or worries over sexual content for their bans, which prevent some of America's 1.2 million inmates from reading often innocuous-sounding texts sent by friends, campaigners, publishers or bookstores.

A study by PEN America, a literacy and free expression advocacy group, found widely differing and often inconsistently enforced policies resulted in a "staggering" number of books never making it past a prison mailroom.

Victims of the censorship included "The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo" a memoir by Amy Schumer, Sun Tzu's classic military manual "The Art of War," the century-old tract "The Use of Ropes and Tackle" and "Anyone Can Draw: Create Sensational Artwork in Easy Steps."

"Bans for purported sexual content were applied extremely broadly, from books on menopause to issues of Cosmopolitan and Rolling Stone, to art and medical books," the campaign group said in its report "Reading Between the Bars."

Only around half of America's 50 states keep a centralized list of banned books, with many others implementing ad-hoc systems often at a prison mailroom level, the group says.

Of those states that did know which books were banned, Florida was the most enthusiastic censor, refusing almost 23,000 titles to its prison population. Texas was second with around 10,000.

Reasons for the bans were varied, but the report found they were often very broad.

In Michigan, for example, "Spanish at a Glance" was not permitted because authorities believe it posed a "threat to the good order and security of the facility."

"(The book) may be used by prisoners to learn to communicate in a language that staff at the facility does not understand."

The pressure group communicated with inmates who said the rationale for banning the written word appeared wholly at odds with other aspects of prison life.

"Robert Blankenship, incarcerated in Virginia, notes that in Virginia prisons, the "Game of Thrones" novels are banned, but his prison airs the full, unedited HBO series on the facility televisions," the report said.

The group found the most censored title in the US is "Prison Ramen" -- a cookbook banned in 19 states offering recipes that can be made in a cell.

hg/tjj
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly rejected legislation that would have forced President Joe Biden to withdraw U.S. troops from Niger, a West African nation where military officers seized power in July.

The measure was rejected by 86-11.

The United States formally declared this month that there had been a military coup d'etat in Niger, which results in officially suspending assistance, but U.S. officials said there were no plans to change the U.S. troop presence in the country.

Niger has been a partner for Washington's fight against Islamist insurgents who have killed thousands of people and displaced millions more in Africa. There are about 1,000 Department of Defense personnel in the country.

Republican Senator Rand Paul, who sponsored the legislation, argued that the troops were improperly deployed without congressional approval and said Americans should not be at risk of getting caught in the crossfire of a conflict in Niger.

"With the Middle East on fire, what sense does it make to have over 1,000 troops in Niger? Does it make sense to station over 1,000 troops in a country ruled by a military junta?" Paul said in a Senate speech.

Senator Ben Cardin, the Democratic chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said that if Americans withdraw it could leave a vacuum that could be filled by Russia or its partner Wagner mercenaries.

"We do not give enough attention to that part of the world. We certainly don't want to signal that we're abandoning that part of the world," Cardin said.

Over the past decade, U.S. troops have trained Nigerien forces in counterterrorism and operated two military bases, including one that conducts drone missions against Islamic State and an Al Qaeda affiliate in the region.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Sandra Maler)
By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) -The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) on Thursday issued an order that could bar Apple from importing its Apple Watches after finding the devices violate medical technology company Masimo's patent rights.

The full commission upheld a judge's ruling from January that Apple violated Masimo's rights in light-based technology for reading blood-oxygen levels.

The decision will not have an immediate effect since it now faces presidential review and possible appeals.

President Joe Biden's administration will have 60 days to decide whether to veto the import ban based on policy concerns before it goes into effect. Presidents have rarely vetoed bans in the past.

Apple can appeal the ban to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit after the review period ends.

"Masimo has wrongly attempted to use the ITC to keep a potentially lifesaving product from millions of U.S. consumers while making way for their own watch that copies Apple," an Apple spokesperson said. "While todays decision has no immediate impact on sales of Apple Watch, we believe it should be reversed, and will continue our efforts to appeal."

Masimo Chief Executive Officer Joe Kiani said the decision "sends a powerful message that even the world's largest company is not above the law."

The ITC decision did not specify which models of Apple Watches would be affected by the ban. Masimo's 2021 complaint said the 2020 Apple Watch Series 6, the first model with blood-oxygen monitoring capabilities, infringed its patents.

Masimo's complaint said the infringing Apple Watches were made in China. Apple has since shifted some of its Apple Watch production to Vietnam.

The ITC case is part of an intellectual-property fight between Apple and Masimo that spans several jurisdictions.

Irvine, California-based Masimo has accused Apple of stealing its technology and incorporating it into several Apple Watch models. A jury trial on Masimo's allegations in California federal court ended with a mistrial in May.

Apple has separately sued Masimo for patent infringement in federal court in Delaware. It has called Masimo's legal actions a "maneuver to clear a path" for its own competing smartwatch.

Apple is also facing an Apple Watch import ban in a separate patent dispute with medical technology company AliveCor. The ITC issued a ban in February but placed it on hold during related proceedings over the validity of AliveCor's patents.

Apple's wearables, home and accessory business, which includes the Apple Watch, AirPods earbuds and other products, brought in $8.28 billion in revenue during the third quarter of 2023, according to a company report.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by David Bario, Grant McCool and Bill Berkrot)
A Department of Veterans Affairs regional office manager, who was not wearing pants, cursed out and insulted his subordinates during a virtual town hall meeting when he assumed his microphone and camera were off, his colleagues said.

Edward Fuenmayor, an assistant veterans service center manager in Phoenix, was reassigned after the outburst last week, the VA said.

In a letter obtained by NBC News, Fuenmayor apologized for the incident, saying he embarrassed himself and the agency with his recent behavior and use of inappropriate language.

Edward Fuenmayor. (Va.gov)

I deeply regret my choice of words, my actions, and understand that it was disrespectful and offensive, he wrote.

More than 200 people were at the mandatory Microsoft Teams meeting last Wednesday when Fuenmayor erupted over questions a VA National Call Center employee asked at the end of the hour-long call.

Fuenmayor declined to comment to NBC News.

The manager, who was in his underwear, cursed multiple times, said Call Center employees were idiots who asked stupid questions, and appeared to slam something in frustration, according to screenshots of the meetings chat room and two employees who spoke to NBC News on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retaliation.

He was, like, furious. That guy was cussing up a storm, and he had his drawers on, one of the employees said. He didnt know he was on the hot mic.

After the outburst, which was video recorded, six people immediately expressed their offense in the Teams chat, while another five acknowledged they heard the comments, according to screenshots of the conversation.

One employee wrote that the remarks were unprofessional and uncalled for, while another commented scathing review. In all capital letters, a third employee told Fuenmayor he was not muted and said he gave a peep show on top of it.

Assistant Director Amanda French apologized for the incident in another comment, urging everyone to return to work. We are addressing the issue, she wrote. Know we appreciate you. French did not respond to a request for comment.

On Wednesday, VA press secretary Terrence Hayes said Fuenmayor has been reassigned to nonsupervisory duties while the agency conducts a thorough and immediate investigation.

Hayes said the VA would hold accountable any employee who failed in their assigned duties and responsibilities once the investigation is complete.

At VA, we hold all of our leaders to the highest standards of professionalism and respect  whether theyre interacting with veterans or their fellow employees, he said. This behavior represents a failure to live up to our core values.

Fuenmayor has held a VA leadership role as a supervisor or manager since at least 2020.

In his roughly 200-word letter to all employees, sent the day after the town hall, he said his actions did not represent a welcome environment.

Town halls, he wrote, are an opportunity for employees to have an open discussion and to ask questions and that they should feel free and welcomed to inquire upon any topic.

I understand that my actions were hurtful, and I want to assure you that this behavior is not a reflection of my true character, Fuenmayor wrote. I am committed to making the office a protected space for open thought and dialogue.

The VA has said it hosts town halls as a way to better support its employees during a time of surging claims and burnout. An increasing number of claims processors have left the job, NBC News previously reported.

About 600 resigned or retired from the VA in 2022, a 42% jump from roughly 420 in 2020, data shows. The VA said 500 processors left in 2021, and nearly the same number had already resigned or retired this year, as of the end of August.

An employee who was at the town hall, who also works for the National Call Center, said Fuenmayors remarks did not help a growingly stressful situation.

We get cussed out every week by veterans. Now youre cussing us out on a Teams meeting, she said. Its a lot of verbal abuse.

Call Center workers are tasked with helping veterans, service members and their family members who dial the VAs toll-free hotline. The employee said she worried the incident would discourage staff members, particularly new ones, from asking valid and important questions necessary to do the job.

We take the bulk of the calls. We hear the frustration of the public, she said. Its a hurtful feeling when the people who work for this organization are not valued.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE)  Alleged homeless activity set a vacant house on fire Wednesday evening in Fresno, according to the Fresno Fire Department.

Firefighters say just before 10 p.m. they responded to a reported unconfirmed residential fire near Belmont and Howard Avenues.

Upon arrival, fire crews reported heavy smoke coming from a boarded-up and vacant home which prompted them to upgrade the call to a full residential alarm.

Fresno Fire says they were able to knock out the fire relatively quickly. The fire made it into the basement and first floor with smoke traveling up to the second.

Investigators are still determining the cause of the fire but believe it is due to homeless activity.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to YourCentralValley.com.
Veterans will soon be able to get health care on three more active-duty military bases -- one in Kentucky and two in Oklahoma, VA Secretary Denis McDonough told reporters at a press conference Wednesday.

The announced expansion is one of the largest VA and Department of Defense health-care partnerships to date, with more expected to follow, though no timeline for accepting patients was immediately provided. The VA is seeking the care for veterans at military hospitals as it struggles with aging facilities and surging enrollment following the PACT Act.

Fort Campbell in Kentucky as well as Fort Sill and Tinker Air Force Base, both in Oklahoma, will take veteran patients, and that follows a separate partnership set into motion last week in which 37,000 veterans are now able to access health care at the Naval Air Station Pensacola hospital in Florida. Veterans there who needed surgery had been forced to seek civilian care or potentially drive hours to a VA facility.

Read Next: Army Reservist Is Person of Interest in Maine Mass Shootings that Left at Least 18 Dead

"We've been working to expand as aggressively as we can," McDonough said.

Last year, the VA announced plans to build over 30 new health facilities while shuttering 17 others, all in the hopes of revamping health-care access for a veteran population of around 19 million. Meanwhile, the VA said in August that 113,719 veterans enrolled in its health care during the first year of the PACT Act, which expands care for illnesses related to burn pits, Agent Orange and exposure to other toxic substances.

Some of the VA locations set to close would affect access to health care for veterans, who disproportionately live in rural areas, according to the Rural Health Information Hub. The VA hopes to bridge that gap by partnering with more DoD bases to get medical care to veterans near bases, which are often already well outside major cities.

"We are trying to use every authority we have to address what is obviously a challenging infrastructure situation," McDonough said, adding that many VA health facilities are over 60 years old and due for an overhaul.

For the 37,000 veteran patients on the Gulf Coast, the new access could alleviate a nearly two-hour drive to Mississippi's Biloxi VA Medical Center for surgeries.

Benefits could be similar for veterans in Kentucky and Oklahoma. A 2019 report from Tennessee's Department of Economic and Community Development notes that 68,000 veterans live near Fort Campbell alone.

The VA did not immediately confirm when hospitals aboard the three bases will start accepting veteran patients, though other collaborative efforts with DoD health-care facilities in several other states are set to begin in the next few months.

"We have authority and existing relationships and money to go ahead and take advantage of open opportunities where we're going to do it," McDonough said during Wednesday's press conference. "We're going to identify targets of opportunity."

As part of the effort to expand, the VA has hired more than 61,000 new employees this year, McDonough added. That's on top of the department's historic request for $4.1 billion just for fiscal year 2024 construction funding.

"We think that it's only appropriate that we are in a position to ensure that those requests are matching the updated assessments of where there's care that we need to provide," McDonough said. "And what the infrastructure looks like to provide that care."

-- Kelsey Baker is a graduate student at Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism and a former active-duty Marine. Reach her on X at @KelsBBaker or bakerkelsey@protonmail.com.

Related: Gulf Coast Veterans Given Access to Navy's Pensacola Hospital, as VA Seeks Ways to Treat More Patients
Leer en espanol

Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday will visit Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, the last stop in her monthlong Fight for Our Freedoms tour of colleges and universities across the country.

The vice presidents tour has been geared towards demographics that contributed to her and President Joe Biden s victory in 2020, chiefly young voters who are Black or Latino.

Those are important demographics for Biden's re-election. In recent years, college towns have helped deliver greater Democratic margins in some swing states, including Arizona. Many Democrats see an opportunity in Arizonas burgeoning voting-age Latino population, a demographic that reliably leans blue.

In 2020, Biden squeaked out a victory in Arizona by a margin of just 0.3%, only the second time the state has voted for a Democrat since 1952.

Arizona is a swing state. We are in play next year, said Sam Almy, a Democratic data analyst and strategist. Since 2018, the top of the ticket race has been within 2 or 3 percent of each other.

Biden himself has visited Arizona twice this summer: first in August to designate a national monument on tribal lands near the Grand Canyon, and next in September to announce a new library in honor of the late Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.

Biden and Harris are working to win Arizona's Latino voters

A White House news release about Tuesdays event notes that NAU is one of Arizonas 21 Hispanic-serving institutions or colleges with 25% or greater Hispanic enrollment.

Arizonas Latino voters are a reliably Democratic voting bloc, with nearly 60% choosing Biden over former President Donald Trump in 2020, according to an AP Votecast survey. But they consistently turn out to vote at lower rates than the general public.

Stephen Nuno-Perez, a NAU professor and Democratic political consultant whose firm works on Latino voter outreach for the Biden re-election campaign, noted that Arizonas Latino demographic is significantly younger than average: its median age is around 28 years old, compared to a statewide median of 38.

Kamala is the younger, more spry of the two, and probably trying to connect with this younger crowd, he said.

According to a campaign memo obtained by ABC News, the Biden re-election team views Harris as a strong fundraiser who connects with certain parts of the Democrats voting bloc, including non-white voters and low-income Americans.

Latinos also have a higher-than-average workforce participation rate, Nuno-Perez pointed out. That means that in theory, they should be reaping dividends from the ongoing U.S. construction boom, unique among its economic peers. Treasury Department analyses link that boom to the Biden administrations investments in domestic manufacturing.

Still, on the whole, Biden appears to remain underwater in the minds of Arizona voters. An agglomeration of polls vetted by the political analysis website FiveThirtyEight shows all recent surveys forecasting a Republican victory in the state, except one finding that the race is dead even.

Its hard to gauge public sentiment with more than a year until the election. But its safe to say that there have been concerning data points, Nuno-Perez said, and Biden is not as popular as people would like him to be.

Harris is visiting Flagstaff, a sympathetic stronghold

Coconino County, the deep-blue stronghold home to Flagstaff, isnt the best place to visit if Harris wants to target swing voters. Biden carried the county with 60% of the vote in 2020, and in Flagstaff itself, Democrats outnumber Republicans two-to-one.

From a strategy perspective, Almy said, the visit likely is more about priming an already-sympathetic audience to register to vote and mobilize ahead of an election that could be decided by just tenths of a percentage point.

Its really about engaging with the base, making sure theyre excited about the election, making sure they turn out, making sure they get their ballots early, making it easier to vote for students, he said.

Harris choice of the Flagstaff-based campus over the other Hispanic-serving institutions in Arizona  such as the Tempe-based Arizona State University or the Tucson-based University of Arizona  could mark an attempt to connect with voters outside the Democratic Partys traditional urban base, Almy said.

I think it speaks to the Democrats realizing that they have a little bit of a problem with rural areas, and want to reconnect with them, he said. Im curious to see where else some of these big candidates are going to come over the next year or so.

According to a White House statement, the event will be a moderated discussion centered around "key issues that disproportionately impact young people across the country," including abortion, guns, climate change, voting rights, LGBTQ+ issues, mental health and book bans.

Laura Gersony is a national politics reporter for The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @lauragersony.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: VP Harris to visit Flagstaff, targeting key voting demographics
Fangs for coming: visitors admire one of the few portraits of Vlad III, aka Dracula, in Austria's Forchtenstein Castle (Alex HALADA)

Cloaked in a black cape like the infamous count himself, 10-year-old Niklas Schuetz runs through the dark corridors of a hill-top castle in search of the truth about Dracula.

"He was a Romanian prince, not a vampire," said the schoolboy, as he tripped by torchlight through the nocturnal gloom of Forchtenstein Castle.

The group being guided through the Austrian fortress are eager to sink their teeth into the gripping life of Vlad Tepes, the notorious "Vlad the Impaler", whose descendants once held the schloss.

The castle is home to one of the few paintings of the cruel 15th-century prince, and this Halloween its curators are trying to bring the real historical figure out from the chilling shadow of the monster invented by the Irish writer Bram Stoker .

Rather than being a ghoulish fiend, the real Vlad Tepes had for a "long time gone down in history as a positive figure" who courageously fought the Ottoman Turks, said the director of its collections, Florian Bayer.

"More and more people are able to distinguish between the bloodsucking vampire and the historical figure," he said.

Voivode Vlad III -- also known by his patronymic name Dracula derived from the Slavonic word for dragon -- once ruled over Wallachia, a Romanian-speaking vassal state of the Kingdom of Hungary.

- 'Forest' of the impaled -

Held as a child hostage of the sultan at the Ottoman court, he later turned against his former captors.

In several hard-fought campaigns against the Turks, he struck fear into his enemies by impaling thousands of Turkish prisoners.

This gruesomely slow death was also used against his internal rivals, like "the German merchants from neighbouring Transylvanian towns," historian Dan Ioan Muresan told AFP.

Tepes was often depicted amidst a "forest" of impaled bodies.

Yet despite his gory reputation, Vlad was a handsome devil and something of a ladykiller, according to Muresan.

He was a "very handsome man with an imposing build", with long hair flowing over his Turkish-style kaftans adorned with diamonds.

By marrying a cousin of the Hungarian king, he "gave rise to a branch from which the British royal family descends," the historian added.

Indeed Britain's King Charles III has repeatedly boasted of their shared blood ties, saying that Transylvania runs through his veins.

- Communist marketing -

The gothic novel by Stoker published in 1897 helped kickstart the modern vampire genre.

Dozens of films later, the fictional Dracula had transformed into a pop culture icon.

"Until the 1960s, Romanians didn't associate the character imagined by Stoker with Vlad Tepes," said Bogdan Popovici, head of the national archives in the Transylvanian city of Brasov, home to some of the prince's manuscripts.

"It was the Communists who started to commercialise it for the Western market to attract tourists," he said.

While cashing in on selling the vampire myth to visitors, the regime of Romanian Communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu sought to resurrect Vlad as a national hero.

Paradoxically, the Communist regime was careful in differentiating the real Dracula from its fictitious counterpart as it pursued its mission to wipe out pagan traditions.

- Tears of blood -

"Romanians have never recognised themselves in the character, which was born out of a foreign imagination and planted into an exotic reality," said Muresan.

"It is being exploited as a kind of tourist trap," he said.

The real Vlad never set foot in Romania's Bran Castle -- widely taken as the inspiration for the lair of Dracula -- but it hasn't stopped it drawing visitors in their droves.

Murdered by his own people in 1476 in the wake of a conspiracy, experts dispute the whereabouts of his remains to this day, with some claiming that his head was sent to the sultan in Constantinople to confirm his death.

A recent Italian scientific study based on the analysis of the prince's handwritten letters found that Vlad probably suffered from haemolacria, indicating that he could shed tears of blood.

The creepy detail is undoubtedly enough to keep the Dracula myth alive for some time yet.

bg/anb/kym/fg
Poppies are often sold by members of the armed forces

Poppies will be sold in Brighton after all as a volunteer has stepped in to fill a recruitment gap.

The Royal British Legion (RBL) previously said it had been unable to replace a long-serving appeal organiser for the city.

Regional poppy appeal manager Graham Ferris said it was "really good news for everybody in the Brighton area".

"A member of staff who lives in the area has come forward and volunteered to do it in her spare time," he told BBC Radio Sussex.

New, plastic-free poppies will now be distributed in Brighton.

RBL has revealed its new design featuring recyclable paper, with about 50% from discarded coffee cups and the rest from renewable fibres.

Follow BBC South East on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk.
A nonpartisan coalition of voting rights advocates has asked the California Secretary of States office to monitor upcoming elections in Shasta County because of concerns about safety and the spread of misinformation.

In a letter sent to Secretary of State Shirley Weber on Tuesday, members of six voting rights groups called for an urgent, decisive, and sustained response from your office.

Representatives from ACLU Northern California, the League of Women Voters, Disability Rights California, Verified Voting, California Common Cause, and the California Voter Foundation cite three reasons that Shasta County needs the state to provide extra election monitors in the November 2023 and March 2024 elections.

A Shasta County election worker, left, and an observer, watch workers on television monitors prepare the office before stopping work on election night, Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022.

Earlier this year Shastas Board of Supervisors ended the countys contract with Dominion Voting Systems after baseless claims of voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election. The supervisors cited unfounded assertions that Dominion machines were hacked in the 2020 election and led to the defeat of former President Donald Trump.

In their letter, the voting rights groups say that Board Chair Patrick Jones, one of the three far-right members, has indicated that the county will not adhere to new legislation which bars the hand counting of ballots. Newsom signed Assembly Bill 969, authored by Santa Cruz Democrat and former county clerk Gail Pellerin, on October 4.

Supervisor Jones has been reported as having said that the supervisors were still committed to implementing a hand count regardless of what the law says, that the county wont follow that law (AB 969) and will instead file legal action as needed to continue forward with a hand count, and that he believes AB 969 does not affect Shasta County.

The groups also say there is a high risk of voter confusion, distrust, and disenfranchisement due to the spread of misinformation and disinformation by Supervisor Jones and others who are aligned with his views and approach. They include fellow Supervisor Kevin Crye, the subject of a local recall movement, whose recall election will be held next March.

As can be seen at nearly every Board of Supervisors meeting, it truly threatens the electorates ability to discern the truth about how their upcoming elections will be administered and their confidence that their votes will be counted accurately and in accordance with the law, the groups wrote.

Finally, the voting rights advocate said, the county elections office and the county clerk, Cathy Darling Allen (a chair on the California Voter Foundation board) simply dont have the resources to manage both the implementation of a new voting system (which they must undertake since the Board ended its contract with Dominion), the monitoring of two elections and potentially dealing with potentially disruptive or violent observers.

Allen said her office is coordinating with local law enforcement and with the FBI. They have not received any specific threats.

Were just trying to be proactive at this point, she said.

Allen was not involved with the October 24 letter, but welcomes any support from Secretary of States office.

In my office, my staff and I are working hard ... were committing to making sure (voters) voices are heard, and that their votes are counted accurately and quickly.

The November 7 election will be a small one: a fire district formation election (the county hasnt had one of these in about 50 years), and a contest to fill a school board seat vacancy in the Gateway Unified School District.

Jeff Gorder, spokesman for The Committee to Recall Kevin Crye, speaks in front of recall supporters before a Shasta County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, May 16, 2023.

It will be the first election since the county terminated its contract with Dominion. Allens office will tally ballots with Hart InterCivic machines, which are used in several counties around the state, Allen said.

Some Shasta County residents are concerned with election safety and potential violence on Election Day.

There is a concern about the safety of the individuals down at the election office, said said Jeff Gorder, an organizer of Cryes recall committee. He cited comments that Chairman Jones made last July on a podcast called Jefferson State of Mine, where he and the hosts talk about refusing to abide by any state law that bans manual hand tallies, and cite the Second Amendment as a means to fight back against tyranny.

In his opinion, this is the hill to die on, Gorder said. Its a pretty serious statement. What does that mean?

Jones accuses Cathy Darling Allen of lying and misleading, Gorder said. People at board meetings say she should be locked up, that shes a criminal, that she perpetrated fraud ... given all those factors, I dont think its unwise to be worried about the safety.

Hes also concerned about election integrity.

Its not just safety, but interference, and attempts to overwhelm the election office, said Gorder. If officials are dealing with outside influences, how clearly are they able to focus on their responsibilities? Its a perfect storm.

The Secretary of States office did not respond to the requests made in the letter.

We want to be clear that (AB 969) applies to elections throughout California, said Joe Kocurek, the offices deputy secretary for communications. Including those conducted in Shasta County.
A Virginia mans stop for a chicken sandwich and a coffee turned out to be a life-changing decision.

Carlos Gutierrez of Centreville visited Lees Sandwiches in Falls Church while he was on his way to work, according to an Oct. 25 Virginia Lottery news release. He ordered his sandwich and drink, and decided he would buy a Powerball ticket at the store while waiting for his order, the release says.

When he came back to the shop the next day, he heard people saying excitedly that someone had won $1 million on their Powerball ticket the night before, lottery officials said. Gutierrez had one thought come to mind.

Maybe its me, Gutierrez said in the release.

His guess was correct  he had matched the first five numbers of his ticket with the Powerball drawing, which won him $1 million.

He could have won even more money if he has stuck with his original number combination, he said in the release, but he chose to switch his sixth number at the last minute. The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1-in-292.2 million, according to lottery officials.

Gutierrez plans to use some of his prize money to expand his small business, lottery officials said.

Centreville is 25 miles southwest of Washington, D.C.

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.

Man won big Powerball prize in Maryland  then went to work like nothing happened

A scratch-off ticket leads to massive $7.5 million win for Texas lottery player

Lottery app said man didnt win, but then he checked it again  and started shaking
Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct which government arranged the charter flights out of Israel.

Bloomington native and Indiana University alum Julie Steigerwald sheltered with her family in her home in Tel Aviv, Israel, when Hamas attacked on the morning of Oct. 7.

Rockets were launched during the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, a joyful time celebrating the conclusion of the annual cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new cycle.

"It was certainly no accident that it happened then," Julie's mother, Anne Steigerwald, said about the attacks.

Julie Steigerwald was born in Bloomington and studied international communications at IU. Born into the small but vibrant Jewish community of Bloomington, she lived here for the first 23 years of her life before moving to Israel. She spent a semester studying in Israel and decided she would return after graduation.

"I never really intended to move here permanently," she said, "but I fell in love with those first few times that I came  I stayed for work, I was a former journalist for The Jerusalem Post, and then I met my now-husband, and we have an almost 1-year-old son together."

Julie currently works as a public relations specialist for Israeli tech companies. She had been working from home when the country was attacked.

Waking to the sounds of sirens

The Steigerwalds were in bed when they first heard the sirens early in the morning on Oct. 7.

"We woke up at 6:30 in the morning to rocket sirens going off in the Tel Aviv area," Julie described. "It happens, but it's pretty unusual. There was another one at 7:30  We turned on the TV and one unbelievable thing after another kept unfolding, and we were glued to the TV between several rocket sirens going off, I believe several times that day. Since then, myself and my family, and the whole country has been in a collective state of shock, and trauma, and anger, and sadness about what's happened."

A view of the Trade Tower and hotels along the Mediterranean in the Tel Aviv neighborhood of Neve Tzedek.

Israel is a small country on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea at the historic crossroads of Asia, Africa and Europe. It has a population of 9.1 million people and occupies approximately 8,600 square miles, or a quarter of the total area of Indiana. The Gaza Strip is an even smaller territory at a mere 141 square miles.

"Israel is a small country," Julie explained. "On this scale, it feels personal to all of us. Everyone is two degrees of separation here. I think most families in this country know someone who either was in one of the communities that was attacked, or was missing, or was killed, or now has been called up to the front lines.

"You feel that there's this cloud hanging over everyone. Everyone's on edge. Just in our daily routine, my son hasn't been in daycare for the past two weeks. I know a lot of the schools from Tel Aviv south haven't been in session for the past two weeks. I think some a little north have started going back (to school)  Ever since then, there has still been rocket fire even on the Tel Aviv area. I guess most of it's in the southern part of the country, but every now and then the sirens go off and we have to go to the saferoom or the stairwell. Here it usually happens in the evening."

Mourning with community, living under threat

Julie described how Israel's anti-missile defense system protects the country from rocket attacks.

Conceived in the early 2000s and put into operation in 2011, the Iron Dome intercepts enemy rockets with rockets of its own when its system of radars detects an enemy projectile. The Iron Dome was put to the test in the recent attacks as it fought off one of the heaviest bombardments of Palestinian missiles since its deployment.

No one in her immediate family perished in the bombings, but Julie has felt the losses of those in her community. She has attended two shiva services commemorating those who have lost their lives since the attacks began. A shiva is a Jewish funeral ceremony where family members of the deceased mourn for seven days. The country is abundant with such services.

Bethlehem, a town in the West Bank. In 1995, Israel ceded control of Bethlehem to the Palestinian Authority.

Hamas has launched several attacks upon Israel over decades and continued to do so during the 13 years Julie has lived there. She recalled two major military advances while living in Israel  the 2014 Gaza War and the 2021 Israel-Palestinian Conflict, the latter of which broke out during the week of her wedding. She also was visiting Israel with her family in 2006 when Hezbollah attacked Israeli forces during the 2006 Lebanon War.

When she first moved to Israel, she first lived in a kibbutz, or a communal farm, approximately 4 kilometers from Gaza. "There were rockets all the time, but I never saw it reported on the news. There, you only have 10 seconds to run, whereas in Tel Aviv you have a minute and a half after the sirens are activated to find shelter."

Now living farther north, she describes Tel Aviv as the safest place one can be in Israel, relatively speaking. The farthest she has traveled since Oct. 7 was 12 kilometers north to Ramat HaSharon, where she attended the shiva of a friend whose cousin had been killed.

The atmosphere of shock and confusion was punctuated by a nationwide spirit of mutual cooperation. "It's really amazing (to see) the civilian and volunteer initiatives that have popped up.  We don't know what else to do, because you still have to go on, and everyone wants to contribute in some way and keep busy and do something productive to help others. That's one little ray of light in all of this darkness.

"The Israeli sentiment is very fraternal. In routine times, people argue with each other, that kind of thing, but in times of need, I think it's really astonishing how the Israeli society is the first to come to each other's side. When someone's in trouble, they will immediately jump into action and do what they can to help."

Julie has been active as a volunteer in several relief efforts. One of her friends is a cooking teacher who used her studio to cook hot meals for families in need. "There are thousands of families who have been displaced from combat zones and they've been placed in hotels, rental condos  and also for soldiers who were called up without much warning. It's one of the only points of relief to see people rising to the occasion and helping each other."

From Bloomington to Tel Aviv and back

Julie's parents, Gary and Anne, are current residents of Bloomington who traveled to Tel Aviv on the eve of their grandson's first birthday. Aware of Israel's volatile state well before Oct. 7, the two-week journey they planned for was elongated by only one day. "It was one week of peace and one week of war," Anne commented.

Gary and Anne booked a hotel for most of their trip. However, they were at Julie's home during the initial bombardment and sheltered there for another day. Their hotel was only an 11-minute walk away, but there was nowhere for Anne and Gary to take shelter as the sky teemed with missiles.

"(The rockets) serve no military purpose," Anne stated. "Theyre not very accurate. Theyre just there to terrorize and harass civilians  theyre not aimed at any military installations or military bases."

A street corner in Jaffa, in the southern part of Tel Aviv, where David Razi'el Street, Beit Eshel Street, and Yefet Street meet.

To make matters worse, their passage back to the United States was anything but simple. All American flights were canceled and it was impossible to book any other commercial flight out of Israel.

Commercial airline websites were unreliable as vacant seats were claimed moments before Anne clicked the button to confirm her reservation.

Gary and Anne's hotel was another hub of volunteering. The hotel gave shelter to approximately 700 people who fled from southern Israel, where the majority of the combat is taking place. They were treated to catered meals and games were provided for the children. Anne spent the remainder of her trip in the hotel volunteering with her daughter.

Julie found a silver lining to her family's confinement together.

"I can say for me personally, it was comforting to have my parents here, just to have that emotional support and help with my son. It definitely helped me to keep my head on to have them here, and it gave me a bit more space to volunteer and do a little bit of work."

Anne echoed the same sentiment. "When I was there I didn't worry about her so much because she was right nearby. But now that I'm back in the United States, I wake up every morning worrying about her and what happened overnight."

After days of searching for an outbound flight, the U.S. state department announced charter flights for U.S. citizens. The Steigerwalds signed up for a charter flight and headed to the airport without knowingwhere they would be taken to next. They were flown to Athens and a few days later they boarded a flight to New York City. They have safely returned to Bloomington.

"When they left, it was bittersweet for me," Julie said. "There was relief on one hand, that they were able to make a safe departure, but on the other hand, being with families and loved ones is one of the only sources of relief apart from being able to volunteer and stay busy."

Julie is committed to living in Tel Aviv despite the danger of war.

"It's a question I always ask myself," she said. "What keeps me going. It's an ebb and a flow. I have my times when I want to go back and be closer to my own nuclear family, and there are times when I feel this is my home, or at least one of my homes, and it's important that we stay and help the country prosper during its time of need, for better or worse."

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Times: IU grad talks about living in Israel in a time of war
Shay Wenkert, the father of Israeli hostage Omer Wenkert who Hamas gunmen abducted from a music festival, shows an image of his son on a phone (GIL COHEN-MAGEN)

It looks like any other scrappy Tel Aviv tech start-up, with staff in hip clothing huddled around laptops and downing espressos, but they are the volunteers in a "war room" assembled to help Israel bring home the hostages.

Gunmen from the Islamist Hamas seized more than 220 people -- including Israelis, foreigners and dual-nationals -- when they stormed across Gaza's border with Israel on October 7 and, according to Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people.

Within days, as Israel launched reprisal strikes that the health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says have now killed more than 6,500 people, volunteers from Israel's thriving tech sector teamed up to lend a hand in the hostage crisis.

"We are a civilian war room. Our main purpose is to save lives," said Refael Franco, 48, the chief executive of Code Blue -- a cyber crisis management firm leading the effort at Gitam BBDO communications group in Tel Aviv.

"We collect. We compare. We deliver," Franco explained with a brand-ready slogan, as he pored over detailed, digital maps of Gaza dotted with colour-coded markers linked to specific information about the captives.

For years, Israel's tech sector has emerged as a formative pillar underpinning the country's economy, with cyber security firms in particular serving as a powerful driver of growth and innovation.

Seemingly overnight, volunteers from the sector began meeting at the Gitam groups offices where they pooled their expertise with artificial intelligence and innovative platforms to assist in identifying the missing in the aftermath of the Hamas attacks.

In this makeshift response centre, volunteers have spent days combing through the deluge of social media posts across myriad platforms to gather information about the captives.

After amassing a database of images from social media in tandem with photos provided by families of the missing and kidnapped, the team then feeds the evidence into artificial intelligence software specialising in facial recognition.

With assistance from experts in geolocating, programmers, and Arabic speakers, the team has rapidly pieced together an emerging picture of who was abducted, when they were last seen and where.

The information is then shared with the Israeli military's special unit overseeing the hostage crisis, with around 60 captives successfully identified by the team to date.

- Mobilisation -

The tech community's reaction to the hostage crisis represents just a microcosm of the sweeping mobilisation happening across Israel, with the young and old volunteering en masse to support affected families, soldiers and a range of other response efforts after the October 7 attacks.

The hostage crisis has been particularly haunting.

Amid the trauma unleashed by the Hamas massacre, the hostage crisis remains an open wound, fuelling anxiety and uncertainty during what Israeli leaders say will be a long war with the militant group.

"People here left their jobs. There are CEOs and CTOs and founders of companies that put everything aside and just came here... to help," said Ido Brosh, a 24-year-old volunteer programmer at Gitam BBDO with expertise in military intelligence.

"It's horrible that this event made us so unified, but that's also the beauty of this country. In times of crisis, we come together."

But even as the tech community pools its resources to help with the hostage response, the agony for the families of those held captive remains excruciating.

For 82-year-old Holocaust survivor Tsili Wenkert, the abduction of her grandson, Omer Weknert, from a music festival in southern Israel near the border with Gaza has brought an unending torrent of pain.

"What I've been through in the past is small. I'm now living through a nightmare," she told AFP.

"It's very hard for a grandmother at my age to know her grandson is a captive."

The 22-year-old was last seen in footage posted on a Hamas-linked Telegram channel, showing him stripped to his underwear and bound in the back of a truck filled with armed militants, celebrating as they returned to Gaza.

- 'Bring her back' -

Just four hostages have been released to date, thanks in part to backchannel negotiations involving Egypt and Qatar.

Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, was among those freed. Following her release this week, she told reporters from a wheelchair that she was led through a "spider web" of tunnels under Gaza, where she was held with other captives.

The presence of the hostages will likely complicate the widely anticipated ground offensive by the Israeli army following weeks of air strikes across the besieged Gaza Strip.

But even amid the exhaustion and trauma triggered by the October 7 attacks, the ongoing hostage crisis has stirred resolve in many.

For Omri Marcus, a creative director working on a campaign to battle misinformation at Gitam BBDO, the project is personal.

Marcus pointed to the wallpaper image on his laptop -- a picture of his best friend's cousin who is among the kidnapped. The photo, he said, serves as a constant reminder of the mission at hand.

"She's now... in Gaza," he said. "And we need to bring her back."

ds/jjm/jd/dv
FILE - Berkshire Hathaway Chairman and CEO Warren Buffett smiles during an interview, May 7, 2018, in Omaha, Neb. Buffett joined the recent oil-buying spree in the market this week by resuming Berkshire Hathaway's purchases of Occidental Petroleum stock for the first time in four months. Buffett's company said late Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 that it invested more than $246 million to add to its already massive Occidental stake. (AP Photo/Nati Harnik, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Investor Warren Buffett joined the recent oil-buying spree in the market this week by resuming Berkshire Hathaway's purchases of Occidental Petroleum stock for the first time in four months.

Buffett's company said in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing late Wednesday that it invested more than $246 million to add to its already massive Occidental stake over the first three days of this week.

Berkshire bought nearly 4 million more shares of the Houston-based oil producer to give it more than 228 million shares and control of nearly 26% of Occidental. Buffett has been consistently buying Occidental stock whenever the shares fell below $60 as he built Berkshire's stake since early last year, but this week he was willing to pay more than $63 for some of these new shares.

These latest Berkshire purchases began on the same day Chevron announced it was buying Hess Corp. for $53 billion in the second megadeal in the oil sector this month. Less than two weeks earlier, Exxon Mobil said that it would acquire Pioneer Natural Resources for about $60 billion.

Clearly Buffett, Chevron and Exxon are all betting that oil will remain a significant source of the nation's fuel sources well into the future even as the United States works to transition more to renewable energy sources.

And Buffett knows the oil sector well. Not only is Berkshire the biggest shareholder in Occidental, it also owns more than 123.1 million Chevron shares in its $350 billion portfolio.

Many investors like to follow Buffett's moves in the market because of his remarkably successful track record over the years. He doesn't comment on stock purchases like this beyond what he's required to disclose as a major shareholder, but Buffett typically handles all of Berkshire's biggest investments worth $1 billion or more. Berkshire's Occidental stake is now worth more than $14.4 billion.

Last year, Buffett did get permission from federal regulators to buy up to 50% of Occidental, and Berkshire holds warrants to buy another 83.9 million shares for $59.62 apiece, so more purchases seem likely. But Buffett has said he has no plans to buy the entire company.

In addition to the common Occidental shares Berkshire owns, it also holds 84,897 preferred shares of Occidental that it picked up in 2019 when it helped finance Occidentals acquisition of Anadarko. Berkshire used to hold more of those preferred shares, but Occidental has started redeeming them this year at $110,000 apiece to eliminate the hefty dividend the oil producer has to pay on them.

Berkshire's portfolio includes major stakes in Apple, Bank of America and Coca-Cola stock. But the Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate also owns dozens of companies outright including Geico insurance, BNSF railroad, several large utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail firms.
As Hamas rockets continue to pour into Israel on a daily basis, American troops are coming under fire from other Iranian-backed armed groups elsewhere in the Middle East. Over the course of a single week, militias targeted U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq in more than a dozen separate attacks.

The timing is no coincidence. As Israel makes the final preparations for a ground offensive in Gaza and the U.S. bolsters its military presence in the region, Iran and its proxies are keeping the threat of a broader regional conflict alive by targeting Americans. Its a tactic that could lead to deadly escalation.

Where have American troops come under fire?

Israels mobilization of troops and military equipment to the perimeter of northern Gaza last week coincided with a number of strikes against U.S. military personnel in Syria and Iraq, as Iranian-backed groups essentially sought to veto Americas support for Israels looming offensive with force. The militants opening salvo came last Thursday, with three drone barrages targeting U.S. air bases in Syria and Iraq. By Tuesday, according to U.S. defense officials, 13 drone or rocket attacks had targeted American troops in the two Middle Eastern countries.

On Al-Asad Air Base in Iraq, one American contractor died of a cardiac incident while sheltering in place during a false alarm. More than 20 military personnel were injured in the initial wave of attacks, Pentagon spokesman Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder said Wednesday. The injuries were minor and all involved returned to duty, per Ryder, but the assaults show no signs of slowing as Washington prepares for a broader flare-up in the Middle East.

Were concerned about potential escalation, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Sunday.

In fact, what were seeing is the prospect of a significant escalation of attacks on our troops and our people throughout the region.

Who are the attackers and what are their goals?

According to a senior U.S. defense official, the strikeswhich followed President Joe Bidens visit to Israel and vocal backing of the U.S. allys right to defend itselfwere facilitated and directed by the Iranian government. Lets be clear about it, the road leads back to Iran, the official said. Iran funds, arms, equips and trains militias and proxy forces, all across the region that have consistently undermined the stability, cost in civilian life, and at a cost the entire region of security and stability.

A number of independent analysts agree, pointing to their high level of coordination as evidence of Irans fingerprints. A coalition of militias calling itself the Islamic Resistance in Iraq has publicly taken credit for at least 11 of the attacks, according to the Washington Institutes Militia Spotlight, indicating the culprits strong links to each other and Iran. These attacks right now are completely coordinated. In fact, theyre the most coordinated attacks weve seen in Iraq and Syria at any point in the post-2003 period, Michael Knights, co-founder of Militia Spotlight, told The Dispatch. This fact suggests quite a strong level of Iranian involvement.

But despite their frequency, the likely aim of the attacks is to signal, not escalate. The strikes are a clear warning from Iran via its proxies, said Joe Truzman, a Foundation for Defense of Democracies analyst focused on Palestinian terror groups. Its a way to pressure the United States not to get involved in whats happening between Gaza and Israel.

What has the U.S. response looked like?

Speaking from Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, Biden cautioned Iran against continuing to target U.S. military personnel. My warning to the ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond, the president said. And he should be prepared. But that response has yet to come, and the reluctance may be by design.

Despite the Biden administrations long history of risk aversion when it comes to responding to Irans regional aggression, under normal circumstances such a wave of attacks would have almost assuredly triggered a U.S. response. But with the region sitting on the precipice of cascading conflicts, U.S. officials are seemingly trying to guard against an overreaction with deadly consequences. As unrest mounts across the region in response to Israels campaign in Gaza, U.S. retaliation stands to inflame tensions furtherwhich is perhaps the goal for Tehran.

At the moment, the U.S. isnt hitting back. Why? Its not for lack of provocation, Knights said. It is because the U.S. might feel like its been drawn into striking back to maybe create more anger against it in the regionand particularly in Iraq, where the militias are always trying to put together a kind of political campaign to get U.S. forces thrown out. And if the U.S. hits back in Iraq, that may well be the result.

Is the conflict in Israel spiraling into a regional war?

Aside from Irans reported funding and support for the initial terrorist attack on Israel, Tehran and its proxies have thus far stopped short of full, explicit involvement in the unfolding war. But the prospect of escalationaccidental or intentionalstill looms large as Israel prepares for its invasion of Gaza.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed Lebanese group to Israels north, has already threatened to attack Israel in the event of a ground war in Gaza. The militants currently boast an arsenal of more than 150,000 mortars, rockets, and missiles capable of unleashing significant destruction on Israels residential areas and critical infrastructure. So far, the groups involvement has been limited to cross-border missile attacks on Israeli military outposts near the border. But that could change as Israel launches its operation to defeat Hamas, and if Hezbollah joins the war other Iranian-backed groups may soon follow.

Everybodys just waiting to see if Hezbollah is going to join, and then basically the dominoes will fall from there, Truzman said. But its clear, because of the bolstering of the U.S. military hardware thats in the region, that theyre expecting something big.

That threat could come from Irans proxies in Syria and Iraq, but it could also emerge from its network of well-armed militias elsewhere in the region. A U.S. destroyer in the northern Red Sea on Friday shot down missiles fired from Yemen by the Iranian-backed Houthis in the direction of Israel. Saudi Arabia, the Houthis longtime enemy, reportedly also intercepted a missile believed to be destined for Israel.

What is the U.S. doing to prevent a broader conflict?

Administration officials are hoping that bolstering the U.S. military presence in the region will deter the broader conflict Iran is currently threatening. Short of that, they hope the deployments will help manage the crisis if and when it comes. In addition to sending two Navy aircraft carriers and a rapid response force of 2,000 Marines, the U.S. will reportedly deploy nearly a dozen additional Patriot air defense systems to the Middle East, including the Gulf.

In the meantime, the Biden administration is urging Israel to exercise extreme caution as it carries out airstrikes on terrorist targets and prepares to go into Gaza. Last weeks conflicting reporting on a blast at a Gaza hospital demonstrated the danger. After hundreds of civilian deaths were wrongfully attributed to Israel, massive riots targeting U.S. and Israeli embassies and consulates engulfed the Middle East. Such a high-casualty event in the future could result in a region-wide escalation. Hamas uses its media, the images that come out of Gaza as a rallying cry for the Arab world, especially their allies, said Truzman. One bad incident can throw the region into this death spiral.

Iranian-backed groups could seize on the campaign in Gaza to open fronts against Israel and the U.S. from the West Bank, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, or elsewhere. The U.S. hopes its strong presence in the region can prevent the large-scale, coordinated attack long feared by the Israeli security establishment.

Were there to sort of prevent that big stuff from happening. Exactly how were doing that is undefined, and thats the pointyou dont really want to define it too much, Knights said. You just park those carriers there and all those Air Wings, and you make a lot of threatening noises, and you create uncertainty. What were trying to do is to basically isolate the battlefield from the broader axis of resistance, and leave the Israelis with just Hamas to fight.

They thought they could deter Israel from going after Hamas, but they didnt count on the U.S. coming in so heavily as a counter-deterrent.

Click here for more coverage of the war in Israel.

Correction, October 26, 2023: The caption beneath the Getty photograph we featured in this story originally identified the U.S. Defense secretary as Austin Lloyd, rather than Lloyd Austin.

Read more at The Dispatch

The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free.
BELOIT, Wis. (AP)  People go to Noodles & Company to save a buck, not to have one interrupt their meal. But thats what happened in Beloit, Wisconsin, on Tuesday when a deer came crashing through the restaurants window.

Surveillance footage shows a deer charging into the crowded restaurant around lunchtime, prompting diners to scatter. The animal then explored the dining area and kitchen before exiting out a back door opened by an employee, Noodles & Company spokesperson Stephanie Jerome told The Associated Press.

No one was harmed in the incident, and the location has since reopened after a deep clean, Jerome said. The restaurant offered a 2 Buck Mac & Cheese special on Wednesday to commemorate the incident.

Deer crashes through window at Pennsylvania middle school

This certainly wasnt the first strange deer encounter.

A Pennsylvania middle school class had a surprise guest Wednesday morning when a deer crashed through a window, dashed through their classroom, and ran down a hallway.

Last November, a deer crashed through the window of a New York nursing home. After spending a few minutes inside, it crashed through another window on its way out.

A few weeks earlier, video captured a woman being chased by a deer on Rutgers Universitys campus.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego.
Wendi Adelson took the stand Thursday in the trial of her brother, Charlie Adelson, testifying that her family had nothing to do with the 2014 murder of law professor Dan Markel  and that she was surprised to learn hours earlier that her brother knew who her ex-husband's killer was all along.

During nearly two hours of harsh direct examination by Assistant State Attorney Georgia Cappleman, Wendi Adelson, who was married to Markel for six years before abruptly leaving him in 2012, also denied having any knowledge of the murder-for-hire plot or any involvement herself.

Your family had your ex-husband killed to try to help you, right? Cappleman asked.

No, thats completely untrue, she replied.

A bitter divorce before a vicious murder

Markel, a law professor at Florida State University, was killed the morning of July 18, 2014, as he was locked in a bitter fight with his ex-wife over their two young sons and other post-divorce disputes. Two hit men from Miami, Sigfredo Garcia and Luis Rivera, stalked him that morning before he was shot twice in the head at point-blank range in the garage of his Betton Hills home.

Prosecutors have long alleged that Wendi Adelson and her parents, Donna and Harvey Adelson, wanted her to relocate to Miami with her kids so bad the family was willing to kill for it. A judge had ruled against her request to move a year before the murder. The state has labeled all three unindicted co-conspirators.

Wendi Adelson, Charlie Adelsons sister and Dan Markels ex-wife, testifies in court clarifying details about conversations with her mother and of her divorce on Oct. 26, 2023.

It marked the third time Wendi Adelson, herself an attorney who worked at FSU before moving to Miami days after her ex-husband was killed, has testified in the case. As before, during the 2019 trial of Garcia and Katherine Magbanua, who was dating Charlie Adelson when the murder happened, and Magbanuas retrial last year, Wendi Adelson was granted limited immunity for her testimony.

Daniel Rashbaum, the Miami attorney representing Charlie Adelson, asked her during cross-examination whether she had anything to do with the murder.

Absolutely not, she said.

Is it fair to say the state has it wrong? he asked.

Absolutely, she said.

Daniel Rashbaum, Charlie Adelsons attorney, points to Assistant State Attorneys Sarah Kathryn Dugan and Georgia Cappleman as he presents his opening statement to the jury, Oct. 26, 2023.

Cappleman hit her with questions about Charlie Adelsons defense  which Rashbaum rolled out earlier in the day during his opening statement.

Was Charlie Adelson extorted by 'mastermind' Katherine Magbanua?

Rashbaum's theory of the case involves an elaborate extortion scheme.

He told jurors that Magbanua was the murder plot "mastermind," who told Charlie Adelson shortly after the murder that people she knew had done it, and that he would have to pay them or they would kill someone in his family. The hit men and Magbanua split $100,000 the day after the murder, which prosecutors said came from Charlie Adelson in stapled-together $100 bills.

In all the years this has been pending, your brother has known who killed your childs father and you didnt know? Cappleman, the lead prosecutor for years on the case, asked incredulously.

I did not know, Wendi Adelson said. She also said she didnt find out about that defense account of what happened until earlier that day.

Cappleman asked if Charlie, her older brother and the middle child of Donna and Harvey Adelsons three children, had ever mentioned hiring a hit man to kill her ex-husband. After she gave a no answer, Cappleman read from the interview Wendi Adelson had with Tallahassee police investigators the same day as the murder.

In the interview, Wendi Adelson said it was always his joke that Charlie Adelson looked into hiring a hit man but bought her a TV instead because it was cheaper.

Is that what he said? Cappleman asked.

That was the joke that he made in poor taste, yes, she replied.

The television itself is a key part of the case. Wendi Adelson was at home the morning of the murder, waiting for a Best Buy Geek Squad member to come look at the TV, which had a cracked screen. The appointment, which she said she arranged, gave her an alibi.

She also denied telling her ex-boyfriend, Jeffrey Lacasse, that shortly before the murder, Charlie Adelson had seriously looked into hiring a hit man. Lacasse testified last year that he had heard the joke before, but that before the murder, Wendi Adelson confided in him that Charlie Adelson had inquired about paying for a hit and that it would cost perhaps $50,000. He told jurors the comments were chilling and that he thought Charlie Adelson was dangerous.

Cappleman grilled her about a trip she took to Miami a couple of weeks before the murder. She said it was to celebrate her dads 70th birthday with Charlie Adelson and the rest of the family. She couldnt recall what she got her dad as a present.

Was the murder of Dan Markel your big gift? she asked.

Of course not, Wendi Adelson replied. Thats a horrible thing to say.

Tim Jansen's Take:

Tim Jansen, partner in Jansen & Davis, P.A., is a prominent criminal defense attorney in Tallahassee and former assistant U.S. attorney who worked major white collar crime cases as senior fraud prosecutor. He has represented numerous high-profile clients for years and is offering daily analysis on the Charlie Adelson trial to readers of the Tallahassee Democrat.

"Opening statements are designed to give the jury an overview of the case and the evidence that is expected to be admitted in the trial. Parties also use this time to give their view of the evidence and their theory of defense in the case. This is also time they will discuss the facts and how they apply to the law in the case for their party. It's often called a 'roadmap' by the parties, so the jury will understand how the evidence fits together.

Tallahassee attorney Tim Jansen speaks with the Tallahassee Democrat about J.T. Burnette's indictment in the FBI's long-running public corruption probe Thursday, May 9, 2019.

In most cases, the prosecution and defense have different motivations in delivering an opening statement. Opening statements are not the time to argue the law. In fact, most courts prohibit any arguments in an opening statement. The state/prosecution carries the burden of proof, so they will be open and detailed with the facts in their opening statement. The defense can choose to waive an opening statement. In fact, in most cases the defense will limit the specifics they give in an opening statement. Thus, not tying their defense to statements they made in the opening statement. Trials are fluid and defenses can change, or be altered by witness testimony or other evidence. An experienced trial lawyer will want to have multiple possible defenses in a case.

Should the defense give a detailed defense in the opening statement it will then be stuck with those statements and that defense strategy throughout the trial. This is a highly risky proposition and should be signed off by the client in writing. In certain cases this may, in fact, be the best defense possible for a defendant. However, this is not without risk of failure and must be considered carefully.

In the state's case against Charlie Adelson, Prosecutor Sarah Dugan provided a highly detailed presentation of the facts in the case.

The state gave a lengthy timeline of the events leading up to the murder of Professor Dan Markel. Ms. Dugan listed numerous witnesses and evidence that tied the defendant to the hiring and payment of the hit men in the case. She carefully outlined the lengthy investigation by the FBI and other law enforcement that implicated the defendant to the murder. The state provided a very compelling opening which directly implicated the defendant to the murder.

Wendi Adelson sits ready to answer Assistant State Attorney Georgia Capplemans litany of questions on the witness stand Oct. 26, 2023.

On the defense side, Josh Dubin and his team were not present in the courtroom, even though he conducted the voice dire of this jury panel the day before. As such, Daniel Rashbaum addressed the jury and gave his opening statement. In his initial address to the jury. Mr. Rashbaum gave an unusually highly detailed and specific theory of defense to the charges.

While not outright saying his client would testify. He seemed to back him in the corner by having the defendant as the most likely, and only party they could introduce some of the evidence that he said would exonerate his client. Sure, there are recordings and emails that can be argued by counsel, but some of the specific allegations of his client being extorted by Katie Magbanua, and the killers must come from the defendant himself. It's a dangerous ledge to put a defendant in if they are unable to produce a witness to back up such facts. Coincidently, the defense admitted that the stapled money used to pay the killers came from the defendant.

Another concession I am sure the defendant had to sign off and agree to put before the jury.

The defense is conveniently admitting the most damning evidence against his client while claiming that there were two extortions, and that his client was the victim of extortion and not a conspirator to murder of his sister's ex-husband. Rashbaum uses the "pieces of a puzzle"analogy throughout his presentation. This is a large hill to climb for the defendant when the alleged extortionist mastermind is the defendant' ex-girlfriend and who had no reason to commit the murder of Professor Markel. Nor, did she have the means to hire the killers.

This is a novel defense under the facts of this case. The question is whether the defense should have fully exposed its defense strategy at this stage of the case. The impact may have been more significant and would have limited the state's ability counter the evidence if announced later in the trial. Litigants are often called to make trial tactic decisions on the fly. Time will tell if this was the right decision.

The question will be will the jury believe this highly suspect defense. The same jury that Mr. Rashbaum did not conduct the voir dire in the previous three days. Will the lack of rapport with the jury impact his effectiveness with the jury, especially when asking them to leap of the dock with this suspect defense?"

FSU professor Dan Markel's killing: Everything to know about the murder-for-hire case

Charlie Adelson Trial Day 1 openings: Defense says ex-girlfriend was murder 'mastermind'

Dan Markel murder: Walkthrough of witnesses making the case for, against Charlie Adelson

Charlie Adelson trial

GAVEL-TO-GAVEL COVERAGE: The Tallahassee Democrat will livestream each day of the trial of Charlie Adelson from the courthouse in Tallahassee. Watch on Tallahassee.com and the Tallahassee Democrat's Facebook and YouTube pages. For best viewing experience: Download the Tallahassee Democrat app to watch and receive text alerts on when to watch  from opening arguments to the verdict.

Contributing: C. A. Bridges, Grace Pateras, USA TODAY Network

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This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Dan Markel murder: Wendi Adelson, sister of Charlie, testifies at trial
NEAR SYDNEY, Australia (KFOR/Storyful)  If his GoPro camera hadnt captured it on camera, many might not believe one Australia mans incredible whale of a tale, after an actual whale jumped out of the ocean, knocked him off his surfboard, then dragged him 30 feet beneath the surface.

I just got hit by a whale! a shocked Jason Breen, 55, said to the camera when he was able to climb back onto his board.

DONT MISS!: 5,000 year-old tomb discovered with remains of men, women, children inside

Breen says he was wing surfing near Sydneys Mona Vale Beach, when, as seen in the video at the top of this story, a juvenile whale gave him a much different kind of ride  one that Breen feels lucky to have survived.

When it came down on top of me it got caught in my leg rope, so as it dived down, I was getting dragged down, Breen told Today. Luckily, I felt the leash break and from there I got released from under the whales body and was able to come to [the] surface, and thank my lucky stars that something thats not supposed to break broke and ringed the webbing out, he continued.

Usually, the mothers have barnacles and if it had barnacles rubbing against my face under the water, I would have been ripped apart, he said.

Not only was Breen shocked that he returned to dry land uninjured, he was also shocked that his story of a lifetime was captured on video.

The whole thing was unusual, one in a million. Its a massive ocean and my GoPro, I wasnt pointing or filming so to get the footage was amazing, Breen said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
Twenty-two books are on a draft list of titles to be removed from Waukee Community School District shelves before the start of 2024.

Their removal is part of the school district's response to Senate File 496  the Iowa law passed this year that bans books with descriptions or depictions of sex acts from school libraries.

Schools don't yet have central guidance from the state on how to interpret the law. The Iowa Board of Education has until Dec. 28 to begin the rulemaking process, and beyond that deadline, there's no timeline for when schools districts will receive guidance.

More: Which banned books have been removed from Iowa schools? Our updated database lists them

In the meantime, school districts have been advised to consult with their attorneys.

Waukee school district spokesperson Kayla Choate said in an email to the Des Moines Register that some book titles on the district's draft list for removal by librarians before Jan. 1 may stay on shelves, "depending on a few answers we are still waiting on for what is implied vs. described or considered explicit, age-appropriate, etc." She said books that are removed will be stored off-site at the district's office or another building.

What books is Waukee considering removing from school shelves?

"Gender Queer" by Maia Kobabe

"Lawn Boy" by Jonathan Evison

"All Boys Aren't Blue" by George M. Johnson

"Sex Plus" (non-fiction) by Laci Green

"American Gods" by Neil Gaiman

"Let's Talk About It" by Erika Moen

"A Court of Mist and Fury" by Sarah J. Maas

"A Court of Wings and Ruin" by Sarah J. Maas

"A Court of Silver Flames" by Sarah J. Maas

"It" by Stephen King

"Looking for Alaska" by John Green

"The Color Purple" by Alice Walker

"Everything I Never Told You" by Celeste Ng

"Thirteen Reasons Why" by Jay Asher

"Milk and Honey" by Rupi Kaur

"Home Body" by Rupi Kaur

"I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou

"Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West" by Gregory Maguire

"Nineteen Minutes" by Jodi Picoult

"Shout" by Laurie Halse Anderson

"Empire of Storms" by Sarah J. Maas

"The Haters" by Jesse Andrews

Phillip Sitter covers suburban growth and development for the Des Moines Register. Phillip can be reached via email at psitter@gannett.com. He is on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @pslifeisabeauty.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Here are the 22 books that could be removed from Waukee school shelves
As war rages between Israel and Hamas fighters in Gaza, there have been several documented incidents in recent days of people ripping down posters of Israelis kidnapped by the terrorist group.

The posters of missing people, created as part of an activist street art campaign by two Israeli artists who were in New York when war broke out, have quickly gone up in cities around the world to call attention to their situation. However, many of the flyers have come down just as abruptly.

People whove faced public scrutiny for removing the posters have offered varying responses, with some outright apologizing and others saying they were worried the posters would trigger anti-Palestinian violence.

A dentist in Florida, Dr. Ahmed ElKoussa, was fired from his practice last week after cameras captured him and another man taking down the flyers in Miami. But ElKoussas lawyer explained to local news that his client simply wanted to ensure that theres no conflict here in Florida. And when he saw those posters, he was just concerned that they may lead to an escalation in conflict.

A woman looks at posters pasted by the UEJF (Union of Jewish French Students) on Oct. 16 in Paris.

A woman looks at posters pasted by the UEJF (Union of Jewish French Students) on Oct. 16 in Paris.

His lawyer added that ElKoussas actions were motivated by the recent fatal stabbing of a 6-year-old Illinois boy in an apparent anti-Muslim hate crime.

Washington Square News, the student-run newspaper at New York University, also reported an incident of students ripping down the flyers posted on campus. Photos and videos of the student action were viewed millions of times, and they may face disciplinary action from the university.

One of the students has since apologized, writing on her Instagram: My actions that were caught on camera are a poor representation of what I believe: all innocent lives, Israeli and Palestinian, should be spared, and all terrorist organizations should be condemned and punished, she said. I cant take back what I did, but I can apologize to everyone impacted, from the broader society to my friends, parents and sister.

CBS News reported last week on posters being removed in the heavily Jewish suburb of Nyack, New York. While the posters once filled a local Starbucks window, most of them have been ripped down, leaving only remnants behind, the outlet reported.

People hold posters with images of hostage Karina Ariev as they gather at a spot overlooking the Western Wall plaza on Oct. 25.

People hold posters with images of hostage Karina Ariev as they gather at a spot overlooking the Western Wall plaza on Oct. 25.

Nyack resident Dana Schneider told the outlet shell be printing out more from the artists website, which offers the flyers in various languages available for download.

Im a proud Zionist, Jewish woman, Israeli woman, and I care about my family and my friends, so this is what Im doing. And I will be printing more, and youll be seeing them all over Nyack, she said.

Nyack is in Rockland County, which has the largest per capita Jewish population of any U.S county. As of 2020, around 31% of its residents identify as members of the faith.

The Boston Herald also reported earlier this week that a woman caught ripping down posters of the hostages was fired from her job as an endodontist in an office outside Boston.

And at Stanford University, the student-run newspaper reported Tuesday that a Palestinian student informed campus authorities that they were assaulted while removing the flyers on campus on Oct. 15. The student told The Stanford Daily that they were taking them down because their own posters had been removed.

Poster removals have been seen outside the U.S. as well. Incidents have been documented in both London and Melbourne, Australia.

Militants in Gaza are believed to have taken around 220 people hostage after launching an attack on Israel earlier this month. The war has resulted in the deaths of 1,400 Israelis and 7,000 Palestinians.

Related...
Ukraine will soon increase the production of ammunition at the expense of state and private ventures, the equipment is already being installed, says Oleksii Danilov, Secretary of the National Security and Defence Council (NSDC).

Source: Oleksii Danilov, on the national joint 24/7 newscast on the morning of 26 October

Quote: "Our partners, the entire civilised world  immediately from the beginning of this aggression, from April-May 2022, the countries began to build additional capacities. This is not an easy task, they cannot be built in a month or two.

I can tell you a secret: our private companies are also engaged in this issue, we have ordered the appropriate equipment and specific equipment is already being installed in closed production areas  and we will soon see an increase in our production.

The state will not be able to cope here alone, and we attract the maximum number of private businesses. This is a very powerful thing and our common task."

Details: Danilov noted that it is difficult to determine the required amount of ammunition, but he is confident that Ukraine and its partners will cope with their production.

The NSDC secretary emphasised that there are places on the territory of Ukraine where production can begin safely  the Security Council has identified them because not all the state's entire territory are at war.

Quote: "We are a country that orders and will continue to order these products (ammunition  ed.). Therefore, businesses are interested. One of the questions we raise  I can't say that this is a condition, but it is a wish  that production should be right here because we need to provide for our economy.

Remember that this war will end  this does not mean the country will not replenish its arsenal. They understand all this and meet us halfway. The latest news for our country is pleasant."

Details: The NSDC secretary also called it unacceptable when "some bodies enter companies" of the military-industrial complex carrying machine guns during the war. There will still be questions for them, he is convinced.

The state will guarantee that arms manufacturers will be protected, Danilov assured.

Background: Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said there is a shortage of ammunition worldwide, so Ukraine is trying to develop weapons production and reduce its dependence on Western allies.

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The Emmy Award-winning "CBS News Sunday Morning" is broadcast on CBS Sundays beginning at 9:00 a.m. ET. "Sunday Morning" also streams on the CBS News app beginning at 12:00 p.m. ET. (Download it here.)

Hosted by Jane Pauley

WATCH THE FULL OCTOBER 29 BROADCAST!



HEADLINES: Israel's military intensifies shelling of Northern Gaza Strip (Video)

Fireballs lit up the night sky in Gaza over the weekend, as Israel decimated entire neighborhoods with airstrikes while it expanded its ground operation against Hamas. Communication networks in Gaza have been knocked out, cutting people off from each other and the outside world. Correspondent Debora Patta reports.



COVER STORY: Edging into the spotlight - When playing in the background is fame enough | Watch Video

They play in the background, or are called up when the stars aren't available. But sidemen musicians, back-up baseball players and Broadway understudies have things in common: an understanding of the importance of their role and talent, and a humility that allows them to shine even when they're not number one. Correspondent Jim Axelrod talks with Billy Joel sideman Mark Rivera; catcher Erik Kratz , who spent 11 seasons with 14 different major league organizations; and Kayla Pecchioni, whose Broadway performances are often stepping into the shoes of the star.

For more info:

"Sideman: In Pursuit of the Next Gig" by Mark Rivera (Matt Holt), in Hardcover, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.orgMusician Mark Rivera"The Tao of the Backup Catcher: Playing Baseball for the Love of the Game" by Tim Brown with Erik Kratz (Grand Central Publishing), in Hardcover, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.orgWriter Tim BrownActress Kayla PecchioniDimenna Center for Classical Music, New York City



ALMANAC: October 29 (Video)

"Sunday Morning" looks at important historical events on this date.

Bayard Rustin (right), organizer of the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, stands behind Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, August 28, 1963. / Credit: Courtesy Bob Adelman Estate

MOVIES: Barack Obama on restoring the memory of American hero Bayard Rustin | Watch Video

It was strategist Bayard Rustin  a pacifist and gay Black man  who organized the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his "I have a dream" speech. But Rustin's role in transforming the civil rights movement has been largely forgotten. "Rustin," a new film directed by George C. Wolfe and produced by former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama's production company, is an attempt to correct the historical record about a marginalized figure who helped change society. Correspondent Martha Teichner talks with Wolfe and Barack Obama about Rustin's legacy, and what his story means for today's generation.

To watch a trailer for "Rustin" click on the video player below:

For more info:

"Rustin" is theaters November 3, and streams on Netflix beginning November 17Higher Ground Productions"Bayard Rustin: A Legacy of Protest and Politics," edited by Michael G. Long (NYU Press), in Hardcover, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.org

A

NATURE: Going to bat for bats | Watch Video

Texas millionaire David Bamberger was so enamored with the bats he saw at the renowned Bracken Cave Preserve outside San Antonio, and was so concerned about threats to the flying mammals' natural habitat, that in the late 1990s he built the world's largest manmade bat cave on his sprawling ranch near Johnson City. For a long time, no bats showed up. Correspondent Conor Knighton reports on what happened once they did.

For more info:

Bracken Cave Preserve, San Antonio (Bat Conservation International)Selah: Bamberger Ranch Preserve, Johnson City, Texas



PASSAGE: Remembering Matthew Perry and Richard Roundtree (Video)

"Sunday Morning" remembers some of the notable figures who left us this week, including actors Matthew Perry ("Friends") and Richard Roundtree ("Shaft").



HEADLINES: Maine's mass shooting, and how Americans react (Video)

In Lewiston, Maine, three people were murdered in all of 2022. But in one night this past week, a gunman gave the Lewiston area the sad distinction of being the site of the country's deadliest mass shooting so far this year: 18 murdered, with 13 more injured  husbands, wives, children. Correspondent Lee Cowan looks at how we are responding to the all-too-familiar cycle of gun violence in America.

For more info:

Emanuel Maidenberg, clinical professor, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLAJennifer Rooks, co-host of "Maine Calling" on Maine Public Radio

Intersex activist Pidgeon Pagonis. / Credit: CBS News

HEALTH: Living an intersex life | Watch Video

According to statistics cited by the U.N., .05 to 1.7 percent of the world's population is intersex, defined as having external or internal sexual organs that are not clearly male or female. As a matter of course, doctors in the past performed surgery on babies, ostensibly so that they would live a "normal" life. Correspondent Erin Moriarty talks with Pidgeon Pagonis (who was born looking female on the outside but also with testes and XY chromosomes) about Pagonis' memoir, "Nobody Needs to Know"; with professor Elizabeth Reis, author of "Bodies in Doubt: An American History of Intersex"; and with urologist Dr. Ilene Wong, who believes the medical community has failed intersex patients.

READ AN EXCERPT: "Nobody Needs to Know" by Pidgeon Pagonis

For more info:

"Nobody Needs to Know: A Memoir" by Pidgeon Pagonis (Topple Books & Little A), in Hardcover, Trade Paperback, eBook and Audio formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.orgIntersex activist Pidgeon Pagonis"Bodies in Doubt: An American History of Intersex" (2nd edition) by Elizabeth Reis (Johns Hopkins University Press), in Trade Paperback and eBook formats, available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Bookshop.orgElizabeth Reis, professor, Macaulay Honors College, City University of New YorkUrologist Dr. Ilene Wong (I.W. Gregorio)

Singer-songwriter Barry Manilow. / Credit: CBS News

ON BROADWAY: Barry Manilow on songwriting, fame, and his new Broadway musical, "Harmony" | Watch Video

Over his long career Barry Manilow has earned fifty Top-40 hits, along with a Grammy, a Tony and two Emmys. Today, at 80, he is about to debut his Broadway musical, "Harmony," the true story of a pre-World War II singing group in Germany whose fame was obliterated by the Nazis. Correspondent David Pogue talks with Manilow about his pop career, and his long interest in musical theater.

To watch the cast of "Harmony" perform "Stars in the Night," click on the video player below:

For more info:

"Harmony: A New Musical" at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, New York City | Ticket infoBarry Manilow (Official site)



"SUNDAY MORNING" MILEPOST: "War of the Worlds"





MIDEAST: Volunteers mobilize to aid Israeli hostage families (Video)

Following the October 7 attack in which more than 1,400 Israelis were killed and more than 220 were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum was quickly created to assist hostages and their families. Correspondent Seth Doane talks with a few of the 4,000 volunteers mobilizing to help, and with family members anxiously awaiting word about their loved ones held captive.

For more info:

Hostages and Missing Families Forum



FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK: So long, Cat! (Video)

We're sad to announce that, after more than 40 years with "Sunday Morning," our editorial producer Cathy Lewis is retiring.



NATURE: Ghosts of the North Woods (Extended Video)

We leave you this Sunday before Halloween with Great Grey Owls (also known as Ghosts of the North Woods) at Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park. Videographer: Judith Lehmberg.

WEB EXCLUSIVES:

FROM THE ARCHIVES: "Sunday Morning" Halloween hauntings III (YouTube Video)

More classic Halloween stories from the "Sunday Morning" archives, including: From 2018, Roxana Saberi visits the Swiss villa where the legend of Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" was born; from 2017, Lee Cowan profiles horror film master John Carpenter ("Halloween," "The Thing"); from 1991, Bill Geist attends a Halloween costume trade show; critic David Edelstein offers his pick for the scariest movie of all time; from 2018, Tracy Smith talks with Jordan Peele, director of a new horror classic, "Get Out"; and from 2017, Martha Teichner visits Savannah, Georgia, the "Most Haunted City in the United States," and takes a tour with John Berendt, author of "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil."

FROM THE ARCHIVES: "Sunday Morning" Halloween hauntings II (YouTube Video)

More classic Halloween stories from the "Sunday Morning" archives, including: From 2009, Anthony Mason examines the resurgence of zombies in pop culture, with "World War Z" author Max Brooks; from 2005, Mika Brzezinski explores the eternal question of life after death, and tours an exhibit of "spirit photography"; Charles Osgood looks at a Halloween favorite, candy corn; from 2000, Anthony Mason investigates the mysteries behind the death of writer Edgar Allen Poe, and talks with actor John Astin, starring as Poe in a one-man show; from 2006, John Blackstone meets the offspring of horror movie actors Lon Chaney Jr. and Boris Karloff, who talk about growing up with famous monsters; and from 2020, Luke Burbank takes a trip through a COVID-friendly haunted house ride  a spooky drive-thru car wash.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: "Sunday Morning" Halloween hauntings (YouTube Video)

Check out these classic Halloween stories from the "Sunday Morning" archives. Featured: Faith Salie's 2013 history of the spookiest musical instrument, the Theremin; Vicki Mabrey's 1997 story on author Bram Stoker and his creation in 1897 of the vampire Count Dracula; from 1989, Bill Geist offers some neighborhood children valuable tips in "power trick-or-treating"; Martha Teichner's 2004 profile of special effects master Stan Winston (1946-2008), who created fabulous movie monsters for "Aliens," "Jurassic Park," and "Terminator 2: Judgment Day"; and from 2011, Tracy Smith explores alleged haunted houses and the craze of ghost hunters on reality TV.

FROM THE ARCHIVES: The Osage murders and "Killers of the Flower Moon" (YouTube Video)

In the early 20th century, an oil rush in the Osage Nation, located in Oklahoma, produced a torrent of oil revenues for the Native American tribe, making them the richest people per capita in the world. But their wealth invited greed, exploitation and murder on the part of white "guardians" who came to control the Osage's money, and would lead to the first major investigation by the FBI. In this "Sunday Morning" story originally broadcast April 30, 2017, correspondent Lee Cowan talks with David Grann, author of "Killers of the Flower Moon," about the reign of terror against the Osage.

GALLERY: Notable deaths in 2023

A look back at the esteemed personalities who left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.

The Emmy Award-winning "CBS News Sunday Morning" is broadcast on CBS Sundays beginning at 9:00 a.m. ET. Executive producer is Rand Morrison.

DVR Alert! Find out when "Sunday Morning" airs in your city

"Sunday Morning" also streams on the CBS News app beginning at 12:00 p.m. ET. (Download it here.)

Full episodes of "Sunday Morning" are now available to watch on demand on CBSNews.com, CBS.com and Paramount+, including via Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon FireTV/FireTV stick and Xbox.

Follow us on Twitter; Facebook; Instagram; YouTube; TikTok; and at cbssundaymorning.com.

You can also download the free "Sunday Morning" audio podcast at iTunes and at Play.it. Now you'll never miss the trumpet!

Vice President Kamala Harris: The 2023 60 Minutes Interview

Indoor air systems absolutely key in curbing spread of viruses | 60 Minutes

Living an intersex life
The White House on Thursday defended the government's decision to allow Iran's foreign minister to enter the country.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said the that U.S. was obligated to permit Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian to attend a United Nations meeting for foreign ministers at the U.N. headquarters in New York City.

"The secretary-general called a meeting at the foreign ministerial level. He's the foreign minister of Iran. We are the host of the U.N. We take that responsibility seriously. Do we particularly like the fact that he's on U.S. soil? No. But unlike a lot of other countries around the world, we take those responsibilities, those rules seriously. And so we allowed him to come in to attend these meetings," Kirby told reporters at the White House.

CRITICS SLAM BIDEN ADMIN FOR ALLOWING IRAN'S FM TO VISIT UN: BLOOD OF AMERICANS ON HIS HANDS

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby speaks during the daily briefing in the Brady Briefing Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on October 26, 2023.

Fox News Digital learned that Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian was coming to New York as early as Monday for a U.N. Security Council meeting and asked the State Department why he was being allowed in. While he did not attend that meeting, he arrived Wednesday night. Iran's state-owned Islamic Republic News Agency broadcast video of the minister at the Millennium Hilton hotel across from the United Nations.

Amirabdollahian spoke at the U.N. headquarters Thursday morning. His presence on U.S. soil drew outcry from Biden administration critics who have condemned Iran's support for terrorist groups like Hamas, which is currently at war with Israel.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

ISRAEL WITHHOLDING VISAS FOR UN OFFICIALS AFTER HAMAS COMMENTS: TEACH THEM A LESSON

The Wall Street Journal reported that Amirabdollahian had taken part in at least two planning meetings in Lebanon with the terrorist groups Hezbollah, Hamas and Islamic Jihad ahead of the October 7 attack on Israel, in which more than 1,400 Israelis had been savagely tortured, raped and killed.

While the Biden administration has said Iran was not directly involved in the planning of the Hamas terror attacks into Israel, it has continued to stress that it does hold Iran responsible for funding Hamas and enabling the group. Iran reportedly maintains nearly two dozen proxy groups around the Middle East, including the Houthis in Yemen, who recently tried to launch an attack on Israel that the U.S. Navy stymied.

NOT ONE TAXPAYER DIME FOR GAZA UNTIL HAMAS FREES ALL THE HOSTAGES

Kirby said that the Biden administration hopes that foreign officials will use Amirabdollahian's visit to the U.N. as an opportunity to confront him on Iran's support for terrorism around the globe.

"We hope, quite frankly we're certainly going to take advantage of the opportunity. We hope others at the U.N. take advantage the opportunity to ask tough questions of him and what his country is doing to support these militia groups and what his country is doing to support Hamas and Hezbollah," said Kirby.

"This is an opportunity for world leaders up there in New York to make their perspectives and their concerns known directly to the Iranian foreign minister," he added.

Fox News' Peter Aitken contributed to this report.





Original article source: WH defends approving visa for Iranian foreign minister to attend UN meeting
The names of the 18 people fatally shot at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday night were released by Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck Friday evening.

Police identified the suspect as Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist who was trained by the U.S. military and had been recently committed to a mental health facility. A shelter-in-place order was lifted in the immediate search area Friday evening as authorities narrowed their search for the gunman in the Androscoggin River near a boat launch where a vehicle belonging to Card was found.

Follow for live updates on the Maine shootings as a massive manhunt for Card continues.

Heres what we know about the victims so far:

Tricia Asselin

Tricia Asselin via Facebook

Tricia Asselin, 53, was a part-time employee at Just-In-Time Recreation, the Lewiston bowling alley formerly known as Sparetime.

News outlets confirmed Thursday that Asselin was bowling there Wednesday night when the gunman opened fire, killing her and several others.

Asselin reportedly ran to a counter to call 911 when she was shot, her brother told CNN. He said Asselin's adult son is devastated by her loss.

Asselin was one of seven people killed at the bowling alley, and the only female.

William Brackett

Bill Brackett via Facebook

William "Bill" Brackett, 48, was identified as one of the victims in the Lewiston mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Peyton Brewer-Ross

Peyton Brewer-Ross via Facebook

Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40, was the father of a 2-year-old girl and was a union pipefitter with Bath Iron Works who graduated from their apprenticeship program in 2022, the Portland Press Herald reported.

He was reportedly playing cornhole with friends at Schemengees Bar and Grille when a gunman walked in and opened fire Wednesday night.

His employer, General Dynamics Bath Iron Works confirmed his death in a post on Facebook Thursday.

"Peyton was a valuable part of our team He was hired just five years ago and was making a positive impact on our company. He will be sorely missed," Bath Iron Works said.

Thomas Conrad

Thomas Conrad via Facebook

Thomas "Tommy" Conrad, 34, was identified as one of the 18 victims in the Lewiston mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Michael Deslauriers II

Michael Deslauriers II (Vicki Deslauriers Roy/Facebook)

Michael Deslauriers II, 51, was identified as one of the victims in the Lewiston mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Maxx Hathaway

Maxx Hathaway via Facebook

Maxx Hathaway, 35, was identified as one of the 18 victims in Wednesday's mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Bryan MacFarlane

Bryan MacFarlane via Facebook

Bryan MacFarlane, 41, was one of several people playing in a cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar and Grille Wednesday night. MacFarlane was part of the local deaf community that gathered weekly at the Lewiston bar to play the game with other friends.

MacFarlanes sister Keri Brooks told CNN he was one of the first deaf people in Vermont to get his commercial trucking drivers license, and had recently moved back to Maine. Brooks recalled her brother loved his dog M&M and riding his motorcycle.

Brooks confirmed to CNN that MacFarlane was killed in Wednesday nights mass shooting. The Maine Educational Center for the Deaf also confirmed MacFarlanes death.

Keith Macneir

Keith Macneir, 64, was identified as one of the 18 victims in Wednesday's shooting rampage, according to Sauschuck.

Ron Morin

Ron Morin via Facebook

An upbeat, happy guy who was always smiling  thats how family and friends described Ron Morin, who was at Schemengees Bar and Grille Wednesday night. He was just always smiling, happy, Cecile Francoeur Martin, a cousin of Morins wife, told the Bangor Daily News. She added that Ron was just one of those people that if you are having a bad day, he was going to make your day better just by his presence.

Martin told CNN that Ron Morin was identified as one of the victims killed in Wednesday nights shooting. Martin said the family is asking for prayers and privacy during this incredible time of shock and profound grief.

Friends of Ron Morin have paid tribute to the 55-year-old in an outpouring of social media posts. Those that knew him said he had a radiating light and was one of the funniest people they knew, read one of the posts.

Joshua Seal, 36

Joshua Seal via Facebook

Joshua Seal, 36, an American Sign Language interpreter and a father of four, was playing in a cornhole tournament with friends from the deaf community at Schemengees Bar and Grille Wednesday night when he was killed, his wife Elizabeth told WGME.

Sauschuck also confirmed Friday that Seal was among the 18 victims killed in the mass shootings.

Arthur Strout

Arthur Strout via Facebook

Arthur Strout, 42, was identified as one of the 18 victims in Wednesday's mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Bob Violette

Bob Violette via Facebook

Bob Violette, 76, was a retired Sears mechanic and an avid bowler, his daughter-in-law Cassandra told the Portland Press Herald.

She described Violette as a kind and caring person, who had deep ties to the community as a lifelong Lewiston resident.

Violette started running a youth bowling league many years ago at the bowling alley that was targeted in Wednesday night's shooting. Friends of Violette told WBZ-TV that he was a longtime bowling instructor who was at Just-In-Time Recreation teaching kids at the time of the shooting. Several news outlets confirmed Violette was one of the 18 people who was killed.

Lucille Violette

Lucille Violette, 73, the wife of victim Bob Violette, was also identified as one of the victims in the shooting rampage, according to Sauschuck. She and Bob were married for almost 50 years and had three sons and six grandchildren.

Stephen Vozzella

Stephen Vozella via Facebook

Stephen "Steve" Vozzella, 45, was identified as one of the 18 victims in Wednesday's mass shootings according to Sauschuck.

Jason Walker

Jason Walker, 51, was identified as one of the 18 victims in the mass shootings, according to Sauschuck.

Joseph Walker

Joseph Walker via Facebook

Joseph Walker, 57, was publicly identified by several news outlets as one of the 18 victims who was killed in Wednesday night's mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

Walker's father, Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker, said his son was the bar manager at Schemengees Bar and Grille, one of the businesses targeted by the shooter.

The elder Walker told MSNBC Thursday that he wants people to know that "Joe was a great, great son, a loving husband. He had two grandchildren and a stepson ... thousands of people loved him."

Walker said it took over 14 hours for their family to be notified of Joseph's death, calling it a "nightmare. He added that Joseph's wife was "torn apart" by the news.

Walker told MSNBC he has suffered the loss of one of his children before, as his daughter died over 25 years ago in a car accident.

Aaron Young and Bill Young

Aaron Young and Bill Young (via GoFundMe)

Bill Young, 44, and his 14-year-old son, Aaron, were out for an evening of bowling at the Just-In-Time recreation center when they were killed in Wednesday nights mass shooting, Reuters reported.

Bills brother, Rob Young, told the Los Angeles Times that it wasnt until around 1pm on Thursday when the Young family learned from Maine state police that Bill and Aaron had died. Rob, who spoke to officers on behalf of Bills wife, expressed anger over how long it took to find out about his loved ones fate.

Rob said that Bills kids were the most important thing to him, adding that Bill had his daughters name tattooed on his forearm. He described his nephew Aaron as a smart kid who wanted to be just like his dad.

They were both the apple of each others eyes," Rob told the Los Angeles Times.
Questions over ethics and accountability dominated the final televised Wichita mayoral debate this week, as candidates sparred over well-trod issues of police officer discipline, economic development incentives and juvenile justice.

But a new campaign issue surfaced when Mayor Brandon Whipple accused mayoral candidate Lily Wu of using her position as a television news reporter to promote her boyfriends family on Wichitas two largest local news stations without disclosing the potential conflict of interest.

While at KAKE and KWCH, Wu covered stories on the Steve Clark YMCA and an 8-foot-tall bronze Wu Shock sculpture donated to Wichita State University by Steve Clark. She was a member of the Steve Clark YMCAs board of directors and had been in a longtime relationship with Clarks son and business partner, Stephen Clark II. She did not disclose those ties in her reporting, news archives show.

The Society of Professional Journalists ethics code, an industry-standard for news reporters, says journalists should avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived and disclose unavoidable conflicts.

How can voters trust you will know how to recognize a conflict of interest as mayor? Whipple asked Wu during Tuesday nights televised debate on KAKE, Wus former station.

In response, Wu defended her coverage while acknowledging she covered those stories to uplift the YMCA and Clarks philanthropy. She pledged not to use the office of mayor to give preferential treatment to the Clark family.

Im proud to say that the Clark family is a very philanthropic family, Wu said. The stories that I have covered as a reporter have been to uplift the YMCA as well as a donation to WSU.

Wu then tried to turn the attention back on Whipples ethics as mayor.

Im not the first person to violate the ethics board that you created, mayor, Wu said. The first violator of that very first ethics board is our own mayor, because he got into a fight with a police officer during a neighborhood cleanup.

Wus campaign and outside groups supporting her have been hammering Whipple for weeks over his violation of an ethics policy last year that was one of his top initiatives during his term.

Wu said Whipple made the mayors office look like a joke for his interaction with a police officer at a neighborhood cleanup event last fall that was captured on the officers body camera.

The officer refused to let Whipple enter the cleanup after the mayor entered the wrong entrance and appeared to be trying to skip ahead in line. Whipple violated the citys ethics code by using his access to the city manager to threaten to file a complaint against the officer. In the aftermath of the exchange, Whipple accused the officer of yelling at him and acting inappropriately but did not file a complaint against him. Whipple later apologized and said hes embarrassed by his actions. He was ordered to undergo ethics training for the violation.

What I learned is basically to be humble and show more grace. . . . And Im glad that were able to utilize the ethics board to get people like myself back on track.

Wu said she would not make those types of mistakes as mayor.

As mayor, I will be someone that will make you proud and will not embarrass you, Wu said.

Wus line of attack echoed criticisms by the Fraternal Order of Police, Wichita Chamber PAC and Americans for Prosperity in recent weeks. They have pointed voters to the body camera video in campaign mailers, text messages and a politically charged news conference at the police union headquarters.

On Tuesday, Whipple called Wus previously undisclosed conflict of interest a violation of journalistic ethics and said it would have been a violation of the citys ethics policy if she would have acted similarly as mayor.

You violated journalistic ethics when you promoted someone that you said you need to actually abstain from voting on (if elected) without disclosing that to the public. . . . In the past, you were happy to promote your familys interests. And you know, we just hope you dont do it as mayor because you would be in violation of the ethics policy that I created.

The City Councils ethics policy directs city board members to avoid conflicts of interest by refraining from participating in decisions or being involved in transactions in which officials, their relatives, or business entity have an interest.

If the conflict of interest is unavoidable, the city board member must disclose the association.

I can tell you also that if at any point, any of the entities by Clarks would come before me, Wu said during the debate. I would abstain and would not be voting because I believe in ethics. . . . So I want to be clear that I will not provide any preferential treatment to any of my family, friends or supporters, because that is the type of ethics that you deserve.

Clark coverage

A check of past KAKE and KWCH stories by Wu on the Steve Clark YMCA and Clark-donated Wu Shock sculpture show she made no disclosure of her personal ties to the Clark family.

The stories showcase Steve Clarks role in bringing an 8-foot-tall bronze sculpture of Wichita States mascot to the YMCA on WSUs campus.

Wus KAKE story celebrates Clark for lending his time, talent and treasures to the YMCA and WSU. The KWCH story goes into the backstory of how the sculpture is a memorial for Clarks late wife and Wus boyfriends mother, Judy Clark.

Through Clarks generosity, the Shocker community receives this gift, Wu says at the end of the 3-minute Kansas Proud segment in September 2020.

KAKE General Manager Mike Rajewski said the station has a policy on conflicts of interest but declined to say whether he believed Wu violated it when she was a reporter. He isnt a journalist by trade, so he leaves decisions about who covers what to the news management team, he said.

As far as the station policy on conflicts of interest, the policy is to avoid it at all times, Rajewski said.

It was a few years ago, I guess, that this happened, Rajewski said. I might submit to you that both things could be true  that maybe there was a conflict of interest but did she cover the story just because it was a relation of hers? Or were they sitting around in the news meeting and they said, Hey, Lily, this is your story. Today you need to go cover this.

Its a perspective thing, Rajewski said. Could one make the case that it was probably  and maybe not her bad judgment but maybe bad judgment on the news management at that station to send her on that story? Or if she proposed covering that story, thats very different.

Asked whether she pitched story ideas related to the Clarks philanthropy in news meetings or was assigned them by a superiors, Wu did not respond directly.

Both of these stories that the mayor referenced were stories that were pitched in an editorial meeting and I was able to report on, Wu said in a written statement to The Eagle. As you know, we get news releases and alerts on many of these types of stories from nonprofits.

KWCHs general manager did not respond to a request for comment.

Clark did not immediately respond to questions Thursday. He has previously told The Eagle he does not expect any preferential treatment from Wu. He said he hasnt done business with the city since 2013, when the City Council voted to award the River Vista project to a group of developers that included major campaign donors after he had been working on the project for years and invested $200,000 in the planning of the project.

Clark is a Wichita State graduate, a former member of the Kansas Board of Regents and a longtime donor to the university. He was the chair of the search committees that recommended the hiring of John Bardo, the mind behind WSUs Innovation Campus, and Jay Golden.
The Biden administration unveiled on Wednesday a $56 billion domestic spending request that would funnel billions of dollars into disaster response, child care, national security, aid for lower-income Americans and other programs.

The supplemental funding request comes a week after the White House asked Congress for $105 billion for a separate national security package that includes military and humanitarian assistance for the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. Both proposals face steep hurdles in the House, where Republicans have been focused on cutting back spending and only just elected a speaker after three weeks of legislative paralysis.

Lawmakers are expected to resume discussions on funding federal agencies for fiscal year 2024 now that Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson is the new speaker. The federal government is set to shut down after November 17 if Congress doesnt act.

Notably, the domestic spending request does not include additional funding for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, known as WIC, the Student Aid Administration and the Social Security Administration. The Biden administration said it has communicated with Congress about addressing these needs.

Heres whats in the package, according to the White House:

$23.5 billion for disaster response

The package would provide $9 billion for the Disaster Relief Fund so the Federal Emergency Management Agency can address ongoing disaster response and recovery efforts. It would also pump $2.8 billion into addressing housing and infrastructure needs caused by major disasters and give the same amount to farmers and ranchers for crop losses from natural disasters.

It would provide just over $1 billion to repair schools, federal highways and roads affected by disasters, as well as $127 million for Small Business Administration disaster loans.

And it includes funding for disaster recovery needs for the wildfires on Maui, the hurricanes in Florida, the Guam typhoon and the floods in California and Vermont, among other disasters.

In this August 10 photo, Maui police officers help pack truckloads of food and supplies collected by Level Up Fitness. - Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

$16 billion for child care

The proposal would funnel $16 billion into child care stabilization grants to extend the pandemic support program for another year to help keep providers open.

Congressional Democrats created a $24 billion child care stabilization program as part of the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, but the funding expired on September 30. More than 70,000 child care programs are projected to close and about 3.2 million children could lose their spots due to the loss of the federal assistance, according to an analysis by The Century Foundation.

$6 billion for affordable connectivity

The White House wants to extend free and discounted high-speed internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program for tens of millions of low-income households through December 2024.

$6 billion for national security and energy independence

The measure would provide $3.1 billion to reimburse communications providers for the ongoing removal of insecure equipment and software from the US communications infrastructure.

It would funnel $2.2 billion into improving long-term domestic enrichment capabilities for certain types of uranium. And it would provide $300 million for capital improvements for the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, as well as $278 million to mitigate vulnerabilities and enhance US competitiveness in the global market for isotopes.

Also, it would provide $200 million for grants to nonprofit organizations at high risk of attack, including synagogues and mosques, to strengthen the security of their facilities.

$1.6 billion for energy assistance

The White House wants to beef up the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, to help more Americans pay for home heating amid high energy costs.

Both the House and Senate have proposed allocating about $4 billion for the safety net program for this fiscal year. Lawmakers had provided $6 billion for the prior fiscal year and about $8.4 billion in fiscal year 2022 as energy prices skyrocketed.

$1.55 billion to combat fentanyl crisis

The package contains more money for state opioid response grants to provide treatment, harm reduction and recovery support services.

$1.05 billion for international food assistance

The White House is asking for $1 billion for Food for Peace grants that respond to global emergency needs using food grown by US farmers, as well as $5 million for the McGovern-Dole Food for Education program to support school feeding and maternal and child nutrition projects globally.

$220 million for wildland firefighter pay

The package would prevent cuts to federal wildland firefighter salaries.

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Congress approved in 2021, temporarily raised pay for more than 11,300 federal wildland firefighters to at least $15 an hour, up from just $13. Firefighters then saw annual pay raises of $20,000 or 50% of a firefighters base pay, whichever was smaller. In the wake of disastrous fires, that money is about to dry up.

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WASHINGTON  Hours before President Joe Biden gave a rare prime-time address last week, his head speechwriter sat down with a group of senior Arab and Muslim American officials to go over the draft and take suggestions.

Dissent was sprouting even inside the White House, where some aides worried that Biden hadnt shown enough empathy for Palestinian civilians and a Muslim community facing a torrent of anger, said a person familiar with the discussions, who, like others, requested anonymity to talk freely.

The hourlong editing session reflects a vigorous outreach effort the White House is undertaking to reassure Arab Americans who feel theyre being scapegoated for the atrocities Hamas has committed half a world away. Senior advisers have been calling Muslim officials throughout the country and inviting community advocates onto the White House campus for frank conversations. Cabinet secretaries are sounding out federal workers to see how they're coping with the Israel-Hamas war, which has sparked angry protests in the U.S.

Shaken by reports of Hamas militants killing unsuspecting Israelis on Oct. 7, Biden gave remarks in the first days of the war that channeled Israel's anger and resolve to fight back. He met with Jewish leaders and said the Hamas attacks evoked the horrors of the Holocaust.

Some allies in Congress complained that he seemed indifferent to innocent victims of Israel's counterattack. Now Biden is calling more attention to Palestinian civilians caught in the crossfire and the discriminatory backlash against Muslims back home.

In his West Wing office, speechwriter Vinay Reddy read aloud from the draft to make certain his Arab American colleagues were comfortable with language denouncing Islamophobia and name-checking the Arab, Muslim and Palestinian populations that felt vulnerable, a White House official said. The group listened and approved.

Said the official: There will be things that the United States does in the Middle East that the Arab, Muslim and Palestinian populations dont like. And there will be plenty of disagreements to come. But as an Arab American, I felt very seen and respected.

A president's words carry outsize weight on any occasion, but they are even more magnified in wartime. Some Muslim advocates took note of Biden's address to Jewish leaders across the street from the White House on Oct. 11 and questioned why he hasn't spoken directly to their community. Within a week of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, by contrast, President George W. Bush visited a mosque and delivered a message that "the face of terror is not the true face of Islam."

We had great concerns with what we saw at the beginning of the war, said Hanna Hanania, former president of the Detroit-based American Federation of Ramallah, Palestine, who voted for Biden in 2020. We thought the messages were as if we were totally left out. The messages were going totally for the other side, as if we never existed.

In the past two weeks, Democratic members of Congress have phoned senior White House adviser Anita Dunn and other top officials and warned that Biden needed to address the isolation and fear their Muslim constituents were experiencing, according to White House and congressional officials.

Muslim advocates have told NBC News that women have been fearful of wearing the hijab and that parents have been afraid to take their children to school, worried they would be targeted because of their ethnicity.

The Muslim community is very, very angry at him, a Democratic lawmaker said, speaking on condition of anonymity to talk freely. It could hurt him.

The message is sinking in. Jeff Zients, the White House chief of staff, led a Zoom meeting with Cabinet members last week in which he asked them to reach out to staffers of different faiths and make sure they feel theyre being heard, White House officials said.

Dilawar Syed, a Small Business Administration official who is the highest-ranking Muslim in Bidens government, attended the funeral of a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy who was murdered in Chicago in what authorities say was a hate crime. Last Thursday, he spoke to administration officials about what he heard from people at the ceremony and shared his reflections on being Muslim American in this environment, said the White House official, who attended the meeting.

After the boy was murdered, Zients sent an email to the staff that read: "The events of the last week have been challenging for all of us  and I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge how difficult it has been for our Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim American colleagues  in addition to our Jewish colleagues."

On a separate track, senior officials have been contacting scores of Muslim, Arab and Palestinian American elected officials at all levels across the country to hear their concerns.

Not every message back is super positive, the first White House official said. Its more like: We care about the president, and we want to make sure youre understanding what were hearing on the ground.

When it comes to the ancient argument over who has a right to Middle East land, presidents have learned through bitter experience that it's impossible to accommodate all sides. The best they can do is appear to be fair brokers.

At a news conference Wednesday, Biden said Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians.

Hanania, for one, says Bidens message has gotten more inclusive of late. But hed like to hear him call for a cease-fire in Gaza  something Israel wont accept at this point. The Israeli government is determined to wipe out Hamas and is preparing a ground incursion to root it out so assaults like the one on Oct. 7 dont happen again.

Eliav Benjamin, the deputy chief of mission at the Israeli Embassy in Washington, said in an interview: We are determined to win this war. Im an infantry person myself for many years. Im not aware of any real substitute to being on the ground. We tried this in the past multiple times in Gaza. It did not work. It just doesnt.

With the war set to enter a bloody new phase and the number of Palestinian civilian deaths likely to rise, Biden can expect more pressure from American Muslims he is working mightily to assuage. The White House points to steps it has taken over the years to make sure they feel embraced.

Last year, Biden revived the Eid al-Fitr celebration at the White House marking the end of Ramadan. In 2017, President Donald Trump broke a 20-year tradition by not hosting an Eid event.

Still, the conflict in the Middle East tends to overshadow such gestures. Biden and his top deputies have called upon Israel to minimize civilian casualties as it carries out its counterattack. But Muslim Americans want him to go further.

Asked whether he would attend the White Houses Eid celebration next year if he is invited, a Muslim advocate said, Right now, I would go to drop off a letter and leave."

A former administration official, a Muslim who is trying to mobilize voters for Biden, said some Muslim and Arab American voters are going through 9/11 PTSD, pointing to safety meetings underway in community centers.

They said if women in headscarves are worried, we will maybe set a buddy system so you can have somebody who accompanies you so you wont be outside alone by yourself, the person said. People were not sending their kids to our Sunday school, because they didnt think there was enough of a police presence around it in case somebody attacked it.

It's by no means certain that a different president would be a more restraining influence on the Israeli military. The Republican front-runner in the 2024 race is Trump. He said this month that if he's elected he would bar Gaza's refugees from entering the U.S., an extension of the travel ban he imposed after he took office in 2017.

The White House called Trump's new plan "revolting and dangerous" and will keep hammering that point, a second White House official said.

Bradley Tusk, a Democratic political strategist, said, "You can guarantee that Trump will say something offensive to Muslims every chance he gets, whether he wants to or not."

But voters will have other options than a binary choice between Biden or Trump. Hanania campaigned for Biden in 2020 but said he might leave the top of the ticket blank or support a third-party candidate next year.

"My wife is telling me I just can't vote for him [Biden] again," he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said that according to Washington's assessments, Russia is suffering significant losses and experiencing low morale due to its attacks on Avdiivka, European Pravda reported on Oct. 26.

"We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who are refusing to follow orders," Kirby said during the press briefing, according to the Agence France Presse.

"We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire."

Kirby did not provide further details on the alleged executions or on how Washington had obtained the information.

Russia has been intensifying its attacks against Avdiivka, a front-line town a few kilometers north of occupied Donetsk, for several weeks. Moscow has reportedly thrown in extensive force in an effort to encircle the town, suffering heavy losses in manpower and equipment in the process, Kyiv said.

This was also confirmed by Kirby, who said that since Oct. 11, Russia has lost "at least 125 units of armored vehicles around Avdiivka and more than a battalion's worth of military equipment."

Ukrainian forces in the sector "were able to hold their own and are holding their defense," he added.

The Kremlin is likely to continue its offensive in the coming months and "may achieve some tactical successes," the U.S. official believes. This will, however, come at the cost of thousands of Russian soldiers thrown into battle without proper training and with poor morale, Kirby stressed.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
By Steve Holland and Jeff Mason

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The United States has information that the Russian military is executing soldiers who do not follow orders related to the war with Ukraine, the White House said on Thursday.

"We have information that the Russian military has been actually executing soldiers who refuse to follow orders," White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters.

"We also have information that Russian commanders are threatening to execute entire units if they seek to retreat from Ukrainian artillery fire," Kirby said.

Representatives from the Kremlin, the Russian defense ministry, and the Russian embassy to the United States did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the issue.

Russia's ambassador to Washington, Anatoly Antonov, in a comment on the Telegram messaging app, made no reference to the White House allegations.

But referring to the latest military aid package to Ukraine of $150 million, Antonov branded the U.S. move as "provocative and inflammatory actions in the international arena that look more like pouring oil on the fire" than trying to ease conflict.

"It is long past time to halt the mindless multi-billion dollar flow to the bankrupt Kyiv regime," Antonov wrote on Telegram. "Time to stop showing total disdain towards the opinions of your own citizens and indifference to the growing number of victims dying from American weaponry."

Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday that Russian forces were disregarding heavy losses and pressing on with a drive to capture the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka.

The United States has strongly condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has been providing significant aid to Kyiv.

Kirby said Russia's mobilized forces were undertrained, underequipped, and unprepared for combat. He said the military was using "human wave tactics" by throwing groups of poorly trained soldiers into the fight.

Kirby said threats to execute the soldiers was barbaric.

"I think it's a symptom of ... how poorly Russia's military leaders know they're doing and how bad they have handled this from a military perspective," he said.

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Jeff Mason; Additional reporting by Ronald Popeski and Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
SHELBY COUNTY, Tenn.  An 18-year-old was charged with first-degree murder while police say he was wearing an ankle monitor for a another crime committed as a juvenile.

Flowers now sit on the side of the road in Soulsville. A tragic reminder where a 19-year-old was fatally shot.

Police say the gunman, Eugene McShane, just turned 18 years old.

He got a chance, and then another chance, Jeffrey Higgs said.

Higgs said McShane and the victim were in his program, YouthBuild, helping at-risk youth with education and work.

Shelby County Juvenile Court stated McShane had received probation for aggravated robbery last year, but that wasnt the charge that landed him in the program and with an ankle monitor.

Staff couldnt say what that charge was since state law prohibits them from releasing information about certain crimes when it comes to juveniles.

What is clear is it wasnt the first time something like this happened.

Last year, police say a 15-year-old wearing an ankle monitor killed a beloved pastor during a carjacking in Whitehaven.

Another teen wearing one was with his buddies when they reportedly crashed a stolen car into a womans front lawn.

Another teen wearing the device accused of stealing this mans car he uses for work.

Seems like they gave chase and hit something, he said showing us his car that police later recovered.

Last month, police said another teen with an ankle monitor and two more juveniles stole a Maserati with a dog inside.

From November through July, WREG Investigators have uncovered 61 reports involving kids wearing an ankle monitor being somewhere theyre not supposed to be. Often times, the report states they ran away from home, but in two thirds of those cases, theyre accused or connected to a crime like stealing a car, vandalism and even a shooting.

WREG Investigators uncover stack of reports involving a child with an ankle monitor

Just like all of the things we have going from child welfare to delinquency, we are in the process of looking at the legacy systems we have inherited, Juvenile Court Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Stephanie Hill said.

She said their goal is to keep the community safe.

And so information in terms in all the exact steps with electronic monitoring isnt probably something that we should share publicly, she said.

Hill said she thinks the program is working though.

Through past interviews with the juvenile court judge and through the Tennessee Records Act, heres what weve been able to find out.

Five to eleven staffers, depending on the time of day, are monitoring them 24-7.

Once staff gets an alert, they will immediately contact the child and parent, and if needed, the court will issue a warrant to have an officer go to the childs home.

The child can be assigned an ankle monitor before their case is heard and as part of their sentence. Juvenile court reports on average, a child will wear it four to six months.

The contract with the ankle monitor provider states the device receives one GPS location point per minute, and the system lays out information like GPS location points, curfew violations, tamper alerts, zones and more.

While they have a system for police, juvenile court has not granted MPD access. MPD can only request information.

Hill said they are also working with technical assistance programs on guidance to be the most impactful for youth on probation.

We asked Hill if theyve noticed an increase in children on ankle monitors being brought back to juvenile court.

I cant say I would know the specific number off the top of my head, she said.

Juvenile court also stated they do not have a recidivism rate for electronic monitoring due to limitations in their system. We tried asking about the cases weve uncovered.

Cases before the court, its inappropriate for me to speak to, Hill said.

Dan Michael said he can comment on those cases now that hes the former juvenile court judge.

Ankle monitors work for 98 percent of kids who come out of detention until trial, Michael said. My frustration was the kids who would go out after being released on an ankle monitor and commit more delinquent acts. A lot of them would cut them off.

Michael said for him and other judges, its hard to predict what a child will do. He brought up a former as an example where the child had no serious record, so he got an ankle monitor. While wearing it, he said he shot someone.

The problem with children is that their frontal lobes havent finished growing so when something critical gets in the way that impulse blooms and they make stupid decisions, he said.

Memphis Shelby Crime Commission President Bill Gibbons added theres not enough accountability, and kids know that.

Juvenile crime a major problem, but arrest numbers down

Gibbons said there will be 350-400 children charged with a violent crime this year. With limited beds at secure facilities across the state, many will have to be released on community supervision. He said to make it work, those kids must be checked on daily to ensure theyre on the right course.

We dont have that system in place, but we need to move in that direction, Gibbons said.

He said it will take more money. Its something juvenile court recognizes.

We have a $4.6 million ask in front of the county commission, Hill said.

She said the funding would help with staffing, who are stretched extremely thin largely due to turnover with entry-level staff. She said the money would help them manage cases and provide the right referrals for delinquency and child welfare cases.

Is the 45% truancy rate at Memphis Shelby County Schools contributing to citys juvenile crime?

Michael also believes there has to be more money spent on the inner city neighborhoods.

He said they arent getting the attention they need and deserve. He said theres blighted buildings, roads in disrepair, trash, overgrown lots and schools are closing because the buildings are falling apart. Michael said taxes have to be raised to fix the blight, repave streets and rebuild inner city schools.

He said once the city and county start working with these communities, the hopelessness will fade.

Youll see the community improve and see hope raise in the community and really hit at the crime problem. The children I saw, Jessica, had no hope. They would tell you that. I didnt expect to live past 18. I didnt expect to live past 17. Youve got a 16  17-year-old standing in front of you saying that, he said. Think about that as an adult when a 17-year-old tells you I didnt expect to live this long. Thats horrible. But thats our fault for letting the system go into dilapidation like we have over time.

Why a 14-year-old honor student joined a gang, and what it took to get out

Hill said juvenile court still has a lot of assessing to do, but their mission is to create good opportunities and rehabilitate children.

Thats the goal. If we can do something thats less harmful to keep a child on track to go to school, graduate and become thriving citizens thats what we want to do, she said. I think everyone in Memphis wants to have and everyone in Shelby County wants to have a county that thrives. To get there If that involves more resources, thats what we should do to make it happen.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
President Biden is emerging as the key leader in Israels war against Hamas, with a grief-stricken Israeli society deeply distrustful of its government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu .

Bidens solidarity with the Israeli public has earned him enough political capital to delay Israels anticipated ground offensive, even as the country is fully mobilized for war and anxious for revenge.

While Biden said Wednesday he has not explicitly asked Netanyahu to delay an invasion, he and other U.S. officials have sent repeated warnings in recent days over hostages still held by Hamas and the need for a clear Israeli endgame.

Its hard to overstate the goodwill that President Biden earned from the Israeli public in his first speech, and in the very clear moves, both of the carrier groups and the shooting down into missiles from Yemen, said Natan Sachs, director of the Center for Middle East Policy at the Brookings Institution.

And, as a result, [Biden] is able to use that political capital, he added. I think its quite clear to everyone that America is part of the reason that Israel is taking more time.

The U.S. has deployed two aircraft carrier strike teams to the Mediterranean in the wake of Hamass brutal raid on Israeli border villages on Oct. 7. And a U.S. Navy destroyer last week intercepted a barrage of missiles fired by Iran-backed fighters in Yemen.

Biden has staunchly backed Israels right to respond to the unprecedented attack on its soil, dismissing calls for a cease-fire from some within his own party amid a mounting Palestinian death toll from Israels airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

The president has said Israel must prosecute its war within the boundaries of international law, but on Wednesday he called civilian deaths the price of waging war while rejecting Hamass reports of more than 5,000 deaths due to Israeli shelling.

I think the Israelis should be incredibly careful to ensure they are focused on going after the folks that are propagating this war against Israel, he added.

The president has also warned Israel not to let emotions drive its decisions and has called for clear goals  a contrast to some Israeli leaders who have offered sweeping aims without clear strategies to realize them.

Eliminating Hamas is an empty promise, its not something you can do in two or three months, said Lee Hoffman Agiv, a member of the activist group Building an Alternative that was part of the mass protest movement against Netanyahus government but has since shifted operations to respond to the needs of survivors of Hamass attack.

So when the minister of national security says we are going to eliminate Hamas, that makes me very worried, and so what I feel when Biden comes here is that there is someone in charge, its very sad, sad but true, she said in a phone call from Israel with The Hill.

The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday reported that Israel had agreed to delay its invasion as the U.S. boosts its air defenses to protect American troops in the Middle East.

The New York Times reported earlier this week that the U.S. was advising a delay to buy time for hostage negotiations and the delivery of aid to the Gaza Strip, and in a separate report the Times said that U.S. officials are concerned Israel lacks achievable military objectives in Gaza.

Biden on Wednesday denied making any specific requests for a delay but said he had raised the hostage issue with Netanyahu.

What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do, Biden said of Netanyahu during a press conference with the Australian prime minister. Its their decision, but I did not demand it.

Israels military says it is ready to launch a ground offensive at any time.

Israel has mobilized an estimated 350,000 reservists to respond to Hamass attack and defend Israel from threats emanating on its northern border and in the West Bank. Many of those reservists have been pulled away from their day jobs, making a deep impact across Israels society and economy as they train and wait for orders.

Israels Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has promised troops staged outside Gaza that theyll soon see the territory from the inside.

Every day that goes by, we become better trained

Among the reservists is 35-year-old Corey Feldman, who is almost 10 years removed from the last time he was mobilized for the Israel Defense Forces outside the Gaza Strip.

A dual American-Israel, who works in New York City as an entrepreneur, Feldman was on a plane to Israel within a week after Hamass Oct. 7 terrorist attack against Israel.

Every day that goes by, we become better trained, Feldman said in a phone call with The Hill from southern Israel.

There is a moral and existential imperative at this point on the army to prove that we can prevent such a thing from ever happening, he said.

Feldman noted he was already a critic of Netanyahu before Oct. 7, a view now widely shared across Israels population. Recent polls show trust in government at a 20-year low, while some 80 percent of Israelis say Netanyahu must take responsibility for security failures that allowed Hamas to invade.

Yet despite the widespread frustration toward Netanyahu, commonly known as Bibi, Feldman described the cognitive dissonance as Israel rallies behind its wartime leader.

I think theres a lot of anger towards Bibi for his role in this, but at the same time, hes now the commander in chief of a wartime army, and so we will support him. And hell lead us through this, and then I think like [former Prime Minister Golda Meir], he will pay for the consequences of his actions, Feldman said.

Meir, Israels prime minister during the Yom Kippur War, which was fought against Arab states led by Egypt in 1973, resigned the next year amid finger-pointing and claims that she could have avoided the war.

Its OK to be yelled at

Hoffman Agiv, the pro-democracy activist, drew stark comparisons between Bidens empathy with survivors of Hamas massacres and families of hostages, and whats being criticized in the Israeli media of Netanyahu hiding from confronting his failures.

Its OK to be afraid, and its OK to be yelled at. If someone lost his daughter and hes angry and youre the prime minister, then sit there and listen to him scream, and sit there until he finishes  President Biden, he sat for an hour and a half with the families of all the American citizens and he listened to them.

Hoffman Agiv also expressed fear for Israels soldiers  who are connected to nearly everyone in the country, due to mandatory conscription  whose fates are in the hands of a government and security establishment widely blamed for the current crisis.

Its a big trust issue, and were kind of stuck in the middle, because we dont want to upset anyone because we still have to finish burying the dead  our kids, and our families and friends are in Gaza fighting, and whos running the show?

Among the many risks of an Israeli offensive into Gaza is that it will become a long war, given Israels stated goal of rooting out Hamas for good. And for now, the hostages are allowing Hamas to buy time. The militants have released only four of more than 200 hostages so far.

But at one point the Israelis have to move because we dont have unlimited time, said Ehud Yaari, an Israel-based fellow of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. At one point you have to, quote unquote, make a statement and change the landscape of this war.

While Israels tanks and armored personnel carriers may easily push their way into Gaza City, Yaari cautioned that the plan from there remained unclear  especially as long as Hamas has enough fuel to keep their extensive tunnel network ventilated.

The big question is what happens next? You dont want to stay there too long. You dont want to get engaged in, you know, street fights in the rubbles. How do you handle that? he said.

Israels public is far more familiar with war than most countries, he noted, and the public also realized that the current air offensive on Gaza will ultimately make the operation easier for troops on the ground.

And though Biden has urged caution, Yaari said he has not detected any opposition to an eventual offensive into Gaza.

We do not see the U.S. objecting to a counteroffensive, he said. We see the U.S. wanting to be assured that its a good plan, that it has a good chance of working with minimal civilian casualties in Gaza, while humanitarian aid keeps coming in. Thats what we see.

Updated at 7:04 a.m.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Jewish State of Israel has been in a near-constant condition of conflict since its independence in 1948. From the Arab-Israeli conflicts to combat operations in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli Defense Forces have gained a great deal of experience in warfare. From this, Israeli defense companies have developed weapons and equipment to better equip the IDF for future fights. One simple, odd, but effective bit of kit is the mitznefet.

The large helmet cover can be configured in different ways (IDF)

Sometimes referred to as the chefs hat for its visual similarity to the culinary headgear, the mitznefet first entered IDF service in 1994. The helmet cover shares its name with the priestly turban worn by the High Priest of Israel in the Temple of Jerusalem during the Second Temple period. The word originates from the Semitic root meaning to wrap.

A soldier of the Caracal Battalion wears a mitznefet on her helmet (IDF)

Is the mitznefet effective?

Larger than the helmet that it covers, the mitznefet breaks up the distinctive outline of a helmeted human head to better conceal a soldier on an open battlefield. Like other helmet covers, it also prevents light from reflecting off the soldiers protective headgear. The mitznefet provided a tactical advantage to IDF troops during the latter engagements of the South Lebanon conflict.

Breaking up the outline of the head, the mitznefet is also used in urban environments (IDF)

Made of a mesh fabric, the mitznefet was later made with a two-sided camouflage material that could be reversed; one side for desert environments and the other for woodland environments. In 2013, the Israeli tactical gear manufacturer Agilite announced one that featured the popular MultiCam camouflage pattern.

The mitznefet has become a distinctly Israeli bit of kit (IDF)

Since its introduction, the mitznefet has become widely used across the IDF from reservists to regular forces and even special forces. While some early covers were homemade, the mitznefet has become a standardized piece of kit in the IDF. Although it has not been formally adopted outside of Israel, largely due to export restrictions, the Agilite MultiCam mitznefet is not export-restricted and is available for commercial purchase, including in the United States.
Most modern militaries and law enforcement agencies train to employ their weapons from Condition 1. That is, magazine inserted, round in the chamber and safety engaged. All that is needed to get a round off is to aim, disengage the safety (or safeties), and press the trigger to its break. One country that does not follow this standard is Israel. The practice of carrying in Condition 3, or magazine inserted without a round in the chamber, is also known as "Israeli carry" for its popularity in the Jewish State. Israeli carry is taught as the handgun standard in both the Israel Defense Forces and Israel Police. However, the practice did not originate in Israel.

During the age of gunslingers in the Wild West, it was not uncommon for six-shot revolvers to be carried with only five rounds chambered in the cylinder. The revolver would be carried with the hammer down on the empty chamber to prevent sharp knocks or blows to the weapon from causing the hammer to fire a chambered cartridge unintentionally. This practice was even carried into the early 20th century with the advent of autoloading pistols.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=id3RvNCLxTw

The 1940 publication of FM 23-35, the War Department's Basic Field Manual for the M1911 pistol , calls for carrying in both Conditions 3 and 1. "In campaign, when early use of the pistol is not foreseen, it should be carried with a fully loaded magazine in the socket, chamber empty, hammer down," it reads. "When early use of the pistol is probable, it should be carried loaded and locked in the holster or hand." Carrying with the magazine inserted, chamber empty, and hammer down is Condition 2.

Israeli carry requires the pistol to be chambered before it can be employed (Cherev Gidon - Israeli Tactical Training Academy)

There are different theories as to why Israel adopted carrying on an empty chamber, all revolving around safety. One theory is based on the fact that many early IDF weapons were surplus WWII weapons from a wide array of different countries. Creating standard practices for a the military equipped with an assortment of weapons would be difficult, so Condition 3 carry was adopted to ensure safety and commonality across the board.

Another theory is also based on the IDF's acquisition of surplus weapons. Many of these firearms were in well-used condition after making it through WWII. As a result, safety mechanisms were not guaranteed to function properly, so carrying on an empty chamber was implemented as a guaranteed safety. Israel's mandatory military service is the basis of the final theory. With all citizens having to serve a minimum of just 24-32 months, a lot has to be taught in a short period of time to turn civilians into soldiers. Mandating Condition 3 helps to prevent accidental discharges with these types of troops.

Special IDF units are allowed to carry in Condition 1 (IDF)

Israeli carry calls for the pistol to be drawn with one hand as the other hand grips the slide. As the weapon is presented and aimed, the slide is pulled back to chamber a round. Although it is slower than carrying with one in the chamber, the argument for Israeli carry is the emphasis of safety. However, it does require that the chambering/presentation motion be trained properly to ensure that a round is ready to fire when the weapon is aimed.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swveA-_1dus

It's worth noting that Israeli carry does not apply to rifle doctrin e. Moreover, not all IDF units mandate carrying in Condition 3. Echoing the 1911 manual, units like special forces who are more likely to use their pistol in combat can be permitted to carry in Condition 1. In the end, carrying with one in the chamber or not comes down to training. Condition 1 requires trigger discipline, a quality firearm with good safeties, a holster that protects the trigger from being accidentally pulled, and training to disengage the thumb safety (if applicable). On the other hand, Condition 3 requires the shooter to add an action before they can employ their weapon. While this is considered safer overall, it can mean the difference between life and death if not done correctly.
Living in South Carolina, red dots are ubiquitous. Found in strings of up to three, these brightly-colored circles announce that alcohol is sold inside.

Past the three red dots on the windows of Stop N Save in Myrtle Beach, Nick Patel looks out onto bottles of tequila and triple sec.

You can see (the dots) everywhere, I mean, all liquor stores. But the reason, I dont know, Patel said.

Standing outside of Mona Lisa Beverage down the road, manager Michael Zora said that the circles act as a logo.

If somebodys looking for liquor, you look at the dots. Its faster than like reading liquor store, Zora said.

If you travel to North Carolina or Georgia, these signs all but disappear  this is a uniquely South Carolinian symbol.

The red dots date back to just after World War II and came from the Palmetto States unique liquor laws, wrote Robert Moss, the Charleston-based author of Southern Spirits: 400 Years of Drinking in the American South.

Hot Shot Liquors in Loris. Liquor stores around South Carolina have signs with red dots. This practice dates back to the 1940s. Oct. 21, 2023.

In 1945, Charleston sign painter Doc Wansley allegedly became the first to include the red circles in liquor store advertisements. When creating a sign, Wansley was restricted by recent regulations on alcohol advertising in South Carolina, which permitted only the words retail liquor dealer in 3-inch-tall text.

Allegedly inspired by the Lucky Strike cigarette logo, Wansley painted a bright red circle around the tiny text to catch the attention of passers-by.

And it worked.

Shops around South Carolina picked up the practice of the red dot  six years later, the Associated Press reported that it has become universal, as quoted by Moss.

The symbol became so ubiquitous that in 1968, the states Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC) wanted to ban it, saying red dots counted as advertising, according to University of South Carolinas S.C. Encyclopedia.

Currently, liquor advertising regulations have relaxed and the red circles are now a friendly reminder of South Carolinas unique history.
The most dangerous movement in American politics today is not Trumpism. It is Christofascism. With the election of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, the organized effort to impose the extreme religious views of a minority of Americans on the entire country, at the expense of many of our most basic freedoms, took a disturbing step forward.

Despite Speaker Johnsons claims of being a constitutional originalist, via his elevation by a unanimous vote of his Republican colleagues he has moved America closer to having precisely the kind of government Americas founders most feared.

Mike Johnson Got Elected, But Matt Gaetz Is the Big Winner of GOPs House Speaker Battle

Thomas Jefferson said he viewed with solemn reverence that act of the whole of the American people which established a wall of separation between church and state. George Washington approved a treaty that explicitly stated, The government of the United States is not in any sense founded on the Christian religion. The very First Amendment in Americas Bill of Rights states Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion. The principal author of the Constitution, James Madison , in his treatise, Memorial and Remonstrance Against Religious Assessments, described 15 reasons why the U.S. government must avoid backing any religion.

There is a reason the word God does not appear a single time in the Constitution. The founders were breaking with an England and Europe that were still in the thrall of the idea that rulers derived their powers from heaven above, the divine right of kings. But in the Constitution it explicitly states their view that the powers of government are derived from the consent of the governed.

Jeffersonlike Washington, Franklin, Madison, and Monroewas a practitioner of deism, a view founded in the idea that the Supreme Being created the universe and then essentially took a step back, leaving natural laws to operate on their own. They believed religion should be a matter that was entirely between individuals and their God, and that it should play no role in governance.

Indeed, Jeffersons views were even starker. He wrote in a letter to John Adams, The day will come when the mystical generation of Jesus by the Supreme Being in the womb of the virgin would be seen as just another fable and described the religious views that descended from that fable as an artificial scaffolding.

Former President Donald Trump is greeted by Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) on February 4, 2020. Leah Millis / Getty

Thomas Paine considered much of the Bible to be more consistent with what might be called the word of the demon rather than that of God. Madison said that religion and government will both exist in greater purity the less they are mixed together and saw the separation of the two as essential to avoiding the ceaseless strife that has soaked the soil of Europe with blood for centuriesa sentiment that clearly resonates with our own times. Washington celebrated that the U.S. had at last created a form of government that gives to bigotry no sanction. Benjamin Franklin wrote at length about the pernicious nature of religious tests in government documents.

Yet here we are.

The Speaker of the House has radically different views. He represents a movement that is actively seeking to institutionalize the religious beliefs of evangelical Christians into law.

In fact, even as we see with chilling clarity how those with a similar motive have sought to infuse the law with their religious beliefs on the Supreme Court and in state capitals across the country, Johnson may be the most extreme example of a dangerously empowered religious fanatic in our recent historyand yes, I remember that Mike Pence was, not so long ago, the Vice President of the United States.

The term Christofascism may seem inflammatory. It is not. It is intended to provide the most accurate possible definition of what Johnson and those in his movement wish to achieve. Like other fascists they seek to impose by whatever means necessary their views on the whole of society even if that means undoing established laws and eliminating accepted freedoms. Christofascists do so in the name of advancing their Christian ideology, asserting that all in society must be guided by their views and values whether they adhere to them or not.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) hugs newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) on October 25, 2023. Win McNamee / Getty

Although Johnson was little known outside Republican congressional circles (and not that well known within them), he made it clear from his first moments as speaker who he was and what kind of speaker he would be. In his opening remarks, he even suggested it was divine intervention that made him the second in the line of succession to the U.S. presidency. He said, I dont believe there are any coincidences in a matter like this. I believe that scripture, the Bible, is very clear that God is the one that raises up those in authority.

He has developed close relationships including with Christian Dominionist groups like the 7 Mountains New Apostolic Reformation effort appearing on broadcasts cited as one of their favorites.

As Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD) commented in the wake of the speech, the religious content of Johnsons remarks demonstrates that there are no public policy values that unify the Republican caucus anymore. They dont have a secular program. And so they have fallen back on theocracy as the final binding mechanism of their cause.

The House GOP Didnt Just Reject Jim Jordan, They Made Him Squirm

While Johnson has been careful to avoid expressing views on policy matters since it became apparent he would become speaker, his past record makes crystal clear where he stands.

With his wife, Kelly, who is a licensed pastoral counselor and teacher, he has hosted a podcast that provides thoughtful analysis of hot topics and current events from a Christian perspective. In interviews he has spoken of the fact that We dont live in a democracy we live in a Biblical republic. He asserts this was because the founders sought to follow a biblical admonitionwhich must be a reference to a different group of people than those I cited at the outset. In the same set of remarks he described democracy derisively as two wolves and a lamb deciding what is for dinner.

As early as 2003, he was publicly taking stands that revealed both his views and their roots. In one op-ed he attacked the Supreme Court decision to strike down sodomy laws, arguing that prescriptions against sodomy have deep roots in religion, politics and law. He described homosexuals as people who are capable of changing their abnormal lifestyles.

A year later, he wrote that same sex marriage will lead to chaos and sexual anarchy that will doom even the strongest republic.

He has subsequently sponsored a national dont say gay bill and supports further legislation designed to take away the right of people to choose a life with the one they love.

He has written, If we change marriage for this tinyminority, we will have to do it for every deviant group.

He advocates for a national ban on abortion. During a hearing in which he was condemning Roe v. Wade, he argued that if women were obligated to give birth to more able-bodied workers, Republicans might not have to cut Social Security and Medicare which he has also described as the GOPs number one priority.

Democrats Say They Have No Choice but to Work With Extremist New Speaker

He celebrated overturning Roe v. Wade as an extraordinary day in American history. He has perpetuated the ugly myth of late and even post-term abortions.

He has championed the idea that, per Louisiana law, perform an abortion and get imprisoned at hard labor.

But he has done more than just talk. He was a lawyer for a Christian advocacy group that worked to overturn Roe v. Wade (and the 2020 presidential electionmore on that in a moment).

His views on issue after issue are similarly extreme.

In his first act as speaker, he called for a resolution in support of Israel. But his ties with Israel are hardly based purely on an assessment of American national security interests. As the Israeli news site Haaretz revealed shortly after Johnsons election, his connections to the country are primarily religious links to the Israeli far-right.

He described his own visit to the Temple Mount as the fulfillment of a Biblical prophecy. Haaretz called his speakership win the most significant victory to date for evangelical Christians pro-Israel movement. (I would note that the affinity of evangelicals for Israel has nothing to do with support for the Jews but rather is tied to their belief that the existence of a Jewish state is required in advance of the End Times and the rapture, an event which calls Christian believers to heaven and turns out less well for everyone else, including the Jews.)

Johnson has written that he does not believe that global warming is a serious problem or one that is caused by human activity.

Elected on the day of another horrific gun tragedy, Johnson, unsurprisingly, is an advocate for greater gun ownership and laxer gun control protections. The gun lobby loves him.

Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks after being nominated for Speaker of the House on October 24, 2023. Saul Loeb / Getty

Above and beyond all of this, and in direct support of the idea that this is a man who is contemptuous of democracy, the rule of law, and the rights of American votersJohnson has been called the most important architect of Electoral College objections to the 2020 election outcome, one that the courts have repeatedly proved was just and untainted by any hint of fraud. He promoted some of the most egregious Trumpian lies about the election, including not only that of widespread fraud, but that the likes of long-deceased Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez were behind that fraud.

He promoted a now discredited legal theory that would have granted state legislatures the final say in the outcome of the election and led an effort among members of Congress in support of that last ditch, hare-brained effort to block the will of the people, and to install the candidate he enthusiastically supported, Donald Trump.

While closely linked to Trumpan exultant Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL) called him MAGA Mike following his electionJohnson represents something very different and, hard to believe though that may be, much more troubling.

Trump believes in nothing but Trump. The former president leads a faction in the GOP that is either essentially obstructionistlike Jim Jordan or Matt Gaetzor cynically in search of power at any costlike Kevin McCarthy or Elise Stefanikor profoundly ignorantlike Marjorie Taylor Greene or Lauren Boebert or Paul Gosar or Anna Paulina Luna orwell, frankly, too many to list.

But Johnson, although he is seen as part of this group, represents something different. He deeply (and apparently, sincerely) believes in the dominionist idea that the laws of the nation should conform to Christian theology and be rooted in the ideas of the Bible.

Dems Turn Mike Johnsons First Viral Moment Into Anti-GOP Ad

As benign as that may sound to those who find solace or inspiration in their Christian beliefs, the desire to institutionalize those beliefs and to impose them upon even those who do not share them is pernicious. It is the way of the Taliban and the mullahs in Iran, of Israels hard right and theocratic dictators throughout time. It negates the idea that the citizens of a nation should be the final authority in determining the course and laws of a society. In the name of a higher authority, it strips away rights and puts at risk all those who disagree.

Men like Johnson and other members of that movement, a group that includes members of the U.S. Supreme Court and important leaders in the GOP like former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, represent one of the threats those who founded this country most feared. They were imperfect men. But they had learned the lessons of centuries of suffering and horror that were imposed upon the world by theocrats who claimed to be the representatives of the Almighty on earth.

Unfortunately for all of us, their wisdom and their warnings are seemingly being forgotten and all who hold beliefs inconsistent with those of a chosen evangelical Christian few are now increasingly at risk, as is the very idea of America as a free and democratic society.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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[Source]

The third season of HBO's The White Lotus  was originally set in Japan before it was moved to Thailand  a decision reportedly made to save money.

Scouting Japan: At the ongoing Tokyo Film Festival, Georgina Pope , a producer with Toho Tombo Pictures, spoke of a high profile showrunner whom she recently went on a scouting trip with to find locations for a certain project. She said they visited some absolutely stunning spots in Honshu  Japans main island  and the showrunner loved it all, Deadline reported.

Behind the move: While the scout went great, the showrunner and their team eventually backed out after receiving a call from a production company based in Thailand. There, the project was promised a huge tax incentive, while Japan did not offer any.

It was a Thai production company informing them that the Thai government had just announced a renewal and improvement on their film incentive system. A 30% rebate. For their project, that meant $4.4 million alone, Pope said, adding that all she could hear afterward was the sound of a $35 million project flying out the window.

Trending on NextShark: Weekend marriages,' where couples live separately, gain popularity in Japan

About the project: Deadline said it confirmed that the showrunner in question was Mike White, and that the scouting trip was for the third season of The White Lotus. Variety confirmed in March that the show will be set in Thailand.

A Japan location, however, had been hinted even before the third seasons confirmation last November. The clue came from White himself while he was discussing about cast member Jennifer Coolidge.

Jennifer is my friend and everybody loved her in the first season, and I was like, I cant go to Italy without Jennifer. And maybe thats still the case, White said. Like, maybe you cant go to Japan without Jennifer, either. There are so many fun actors weve worked with so far, so its just kind of like whos available.

Trending on NextShark: Watch: Carefree Asian dad sleeping on plane floor wins praise on TikTok

Since then, the latest installment of the HBO comedy-drama has always been thought to be set in Asia. I think the third season would be maybe a satirical and funny look at death and Eastern religion and spirituality, White said after the second seasons finale.

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The wife of NCHs top leader was arrested for battery after she was physically violent with two nurses in the NCH Baker Hospital, according to police reports.

Kristen Hiltz, 58, the wife of NCH president and chief executive officer Paul Hiltz, was in the hospital Oct. 18 when she kicked two nurses in the chest around 11:15 p.m.

Violence against nurses, physicians and other health care workers in hospitals, especially in emergency rooms, has risen dramatically in recent years.

The victims are registered nurses and intend to press charges, according to the report.

In a statement, Paul Hiltz said: "I am saddened by this incident and any violence against our healthcare colleagues will not be tolerated. The safety of my teammates at NCH is my top priority and always has been. This patient incident was handled no differently than any other and I fully support the rights of our NCH healthcare team."

He also said: Every NCH teammate deserves to be safe and secure, and I am especially concerned for the two nurses who were directly affected by this incident.

Last October NCH posted signs throughout its campuses that say, Violence Is Not an Option and that criminal charges will be pursued.

Sign at NCH that violence will not be tolerated in its hospitals

The victims injuries

Kristen Hiltz kicked the first nurse in the upper left breast area and the nurse felt discomfort whenever she raises her left arm, according to the arrest report. The nurse was medically evaluated.

The second nurse said she was kicked in the center of her chest and felt slight discomfort in the center of her chest. She did not seek a medical evaluation.

While the police report does not state that Hiltz was in the emergency room, she was arrested on two counts of battery of emergency care providers.

From the reports and photographs collected, it was determined that Kristen Hiltz did intentionally strike both victims while the victims were acting in the role of emergency care providers, the report says.

NCH issued a statement that said: "The safety and well-being of our staff and clinicians is our top priority. NCH has processes and procedures in place to keep our employees safe. We respect patient confidentiality and cannot comment on specific cases due to (patient privacy laws.)"

Naples Police notified next day

The Naples Police Department dispatched two officers the next morning, Oct. 19, at 6:32 a.m., seven hours after the incident.

Hiltz was intubated and in the intensive care unit and officers could not question her.

Hospitals will sometimes intubate patients who are combative to sedate them for their safety and the safety of the medical personnel. Patients can be combative because of substance abuse, trauma, mental illness, dementia and other reasons.

Hospital security was called immediately after the incident and operating procedures were followed, according to Jennifer Smith, NCHs director of emergency management and public safety.

The time lapse before the call to Naples Police was because the nurses called law enforcement at the end of their shift, Smith said.

"Our safety officers and (emergency department) staff were able to control the situation safely, Smith said. "(This) event did not require police intervention."

Hiltz was released from the hospital six days later, on Oct. 24, and turned herself into Naples Police where she was arrested, the report indicated.

Data on hospital violence

Among numerous reports documenting the increase in violence at hospitals, the American Hospital Association says 44% of nurses reported experiencing physical violence and 68% said they have been verbally abused.

In the second quarter of 2022, more than 5,000 nurses were assaulted on the job, which equates to two assaults every hour or 57 every day, according to data collected by Press Ganey, a health-care consulting firm.

During the 2022 Legislative session, a bill that passed and was signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis expands criminal penalties to anyone who knowingly commits assault or battery upon hospital personnel.

State law previously included emergency room personnel and now applies hospitalwide, according to Mary Mayhew, president and chief executive officer of the Florida Hospital Association.

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Florida hospital leader's wife charged with kicking nurses
The Wilmington City Council on Thursday canceled planned meetings that would have allowed lawmakers to vote on whether to maintain a five-year residency requirement for new city employees.

A special meeting scheduled for Friday afternoon along with meetings set for Monday evening were canceled because not enough council members would be present at the meetings, again placing the citys residency requirement in limbo since action on the law was tabled during a City Council meeting Oct. 19.

Council President Ernest "Trippi" Congo said that in order for the legislative body to meet, they must have at least seven council members present.

Council President Ernest "Trippi" Congo II and advisers convene at the end of the Wilmington City Council regular meeting at the Louis L. Redding City/County Building in Wilmington on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023. Community members attended to discuss whether the city should keep its residency law, which requires all city employees to live in Wilmington for at least five years.

The ordinance, introduced by Councilperson Shane Darby, would have given new city employees a year to move into Wilmingtons boundaries and establish a five-year maximum residency requirement for employees. It also would have created a working group to determine the best course of action for future hires.

RELATED: This decadeslong debate still divides Wilmington leaders, residents. Can it be solved?

Notice of the canceled meetings was made Thursday afternoon, hours after Delaware Online/The News Journal published a story alerting residents to the upcoming meetings.

Council fails to act

Wilmingtons residency law has been in limbo since the City Council failed to act on an ordinance amendment that would have removed the requirement completely.

That legislations sponsor, council member Al Mills, decided to table the vote Oct. 19 after roughly three hours of public comment and dozens of residents speaking in favor of the law.

COUNCIL MEETING: Wilmington council tables vote on ordinance that would remove residency law for new hires

Proponents of the laws removal say the residency requirement has undermined the efficiency of government and prevented Wilmington from filling critical jobs.

A community member, representing the Latino community, makes public comment during the Wilmington City Council's regular meeting at the Louis L. Redding City/County Building in Wilmington on Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023. Community members attended to discuss whether the city should keep its residency law, which requires all city employees to live in Wilmington for at least five years.

Those in favor of the law, however, say requiring employees to live in the city increases loyalty among those employees, enhances the communitys tax base, fosters better community relations and preserves the character and quality of life that Wilmington residents value.

Mayor Mike Purzyckis administration has urged council members to nix the law completely because of its impediment to hiring, arguing that new hires cant find affordable housing in Wilmington and, in many cases, arent willing to relocate families.

BACKGROUND: Why Wilmington is looking to remove residency requirements for new employees

The administration has argued that when the General Assembly gave Wilmington the ability to determine its own residency law last year, and the City Council failed to pass legislation affirming that requirement, it effectively ended the law.

What happens now?

Council members feared the administration would move to hire whomever, without regard to their residency in the city, prompting Darby to draft legislation that the City Council could act on.

Wilmington City Council member Shane Darby speaks at a news conference about a proposal to eliminate the city's residency requirement for new hires on Monday, Oct. 16, 2023, in Wilmington.

The ordinance would have created a working group tasked with identifying ways for residents to fill vacancies, creating incentives to move into the city and finding ways to ease the financial burdens of moving into Wilmington.

Darby's ordinance will now be introduced during the City Council's next regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, Nov. 2.

Got a tip? Contact Amanda Fries at afries@delawareonline.com. Follow her on X at @mandy_fries.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Wilmington council cancels meetings to vote on employee residency law
A group of 33 states are suing Meta Platforms Inc. for harming young peoples mental health and contributing to the youth mental health crisis by knowingly designing features on Instagram and Facebook that addict children to its platforms.

Rabbit holes, infinite scrolls and near-constant alerts created to maximize engagement are all part of the playbook of hooking users to social media.

They're also having a devastating impact on children.

That's the premise of a coalition of 42 atorneys general, including Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul , who are suing social media behemoth Meta Platforms Inc.  the company behind Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and WhatsApp. The lawsuit contends the company is knowingly designing and deploying these harmful features on Instagram and other social media sites that cater to children.

The attorneys general accuse Meta of violating state consumer protection laws and the federal Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). They are suing the company in federal and state courts.

The lawsuits follow the U.S. Surgeon General's advisory warning that social media presents a profound risk of harm to children and adolescents, including heightened anxiety and depression, self-injury, suicide attempts and completion, eating disorders and poor mental health outcomes.

We must keep our kids safeand that includes from dangers online, Kaul said in a press release Tuesday. Adequate protections should be in place to protect kids from harms associated with social media, and parents must receive accurate information about potential dangers to their kids.

Attorneys general from across the country maintain that Meta falsely assured the public its platforms were safe and suitable for young users, despite overwhelming internal research, independent expert analysis and publicly available data finding the opposite to be true. Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen leaked documents in late 2021 demonstrating that Meta was aware of the risks that Instagram can pose to young people.

Social media's impact on young people has been an area of concern for many lawmakers in Wisconsin and beyond. Earlier this year, state Rep. David Steffen, R-Howard, authored a proposal called "Wisconsin's Kids Online Safety Act," which would create restrictions on Wisconsin minors' social media accounts between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. The bill follows Utah's social media curfew bill, which Utah Republican Gov. Spencer Cox signed into law on March 23.

Other states joining the federal lawsuit are Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.

Natalie Eilbert covers mental health issues for USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. She welcomes story tips and feedback. You can reach her at neilbert@gannett.com or view her Twitter profile at @natalie_eilbert. If you or someone you know is dealing with suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text "Hopeline" to the National Crisis Text Line at 741-741.

This article originally appeared on Green Bay Press-Gazette: Wisconsin joins lawsuit accusing Meta of harmful social media
A 33-year-old woman has died after being shot over the weekend exiting a midtown Kansas City business, and her suspected killer was found dead of an apparent suicide, a police spokesman said.

The woman killed in the shooting was identified identified as Courtney L. Wickman, said Sgt. Jake Becchina, a spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department.

The investigation into the shooting revealed that Wickman, whose birthday was just days earlier, was not the intended target of the gunfire, Becchina said.

Wickman was fatally wounded just after 10:30 p.m. Saturday as she exited a business at 3835 Main Street. Officers responding to reports of a shooting found her unresponsive outside the business, Becchina said. Emergency medical workers took Wickman to a hospital with critical injuries, where she later died.

Witnesses told police that a person fired multiple shots from the parking lot towards the business as Wickman and others were exiting, Becchina said. The person then fled the scene.

Detectives identified the suspect as 19-year-old Katera R. Mayfield, and Jackson County prosecutors charged Mayfield with assault.

When help of the Osage County Sheriffs Office, authorities found Mayfield, who they believe died by suicide. The Osage County Sheriffs Office is investigating Mayfields death.

Wickmans killing was Kansas Citys 154th homicide of 2023, according to data maintained by The Star, which includes fatal police shootings. There were 144 killings by this time last year, which ended as the second-deadliest year on record with 171 killings.

In 2020, 182 lives were lost, the most homicides ever recorded in Kansas City. There were 159 killings by this time in 2020.
You may've heard that the average human swallows several spiders a year in their sleep (totally false, per Britannica)  but what happens when a spider makes its way into your ear?

The answer to that question is the focus of a new case study in the New England Journal of Medicine, which follows a 64-year-old woman who started hearing "abnormal sounds" in her left ear.

Spider in woman's ear

The case study explains that the woman was having trouble sleeping for four days and hearing strange noises. These included "incessant beating, clicking and rustling sounds," as well as "the feeling of a creature moving insider her left ear," per the case study.

She didnt feel pain because the spider was very small, Dr. Tengchin Wang, co-author and director of the otolaryngology department at Tainan Municipal Hospital, told NBC News, adding that the spider was about one-tenth of an inch.

He said the woman's case was novel because he'd never seen an insect molt inside an ear canal before. Previously, he'd seen ants, moths, cockroaches and mosquitoes in people's ears.

When the woman went to an ear, nose and throat clinic in Taiwan, a physical exam revealed a small spider moving in her external auditory canal and that it had even shed an exoskeleton. The external auditory canal connects the outer ear to the inner and middle ear. Her tympanic membrane, which separates the outer ear from the middle ear, was totally normal, according to the report.

A suction cannula place into an otoscope (the device that goes into your ear in ear exams) was used to remove the spider because it was quite small. For bigger creatures in the ear, they usually needed to be killed before they can be taken out to avoid further damage to the ear, the researchers explained.

Once the spider was removed, the woman's symptoms stopped.

How common is it to have a spider in your ear?

The real question that the case study prompts is ... can this happen to you? Experts said that an insect (or spider) working its way into a human's ear is unusual but can happen.

"This is pretty rare," Jody Gangloff-Kaufmann, Ph.D., an urban entomologist and coordinator with the New York State Integrated Pest Management community program at Cornell University, tells TODAY.com via email. "That this was a case study demonstrates that it doesnt happen often."

Dr. David Kasle, a physician at ENT Sinus and Allergy of South Florida, who wasnt involved in the research, told NBC News the average ENT doctor will encounter "tens, if not more, of bugs or some sort of arthropod" in patients' ears over their career.

Other reports of bugs in people's ears include a Japanese beetle and 14-year-old girl in Pennsylvania from 2020, and a tick in a 9-year-old Connecticut boy's eardrum in 2019. A previous study estimated insects make up almost one-fifth of foreign objects found in ears.

Gangloff-Kaufmann says she'd heard of a case where a cockroach went into someones ear canal.

Most of Dr. Stacey Ishman's patients with bugs inside their ears had gone camping beforehand, the otolaryngology instructor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health told NBC News. She's seen eight patients with bugs in their ears.

Symptoms of a bug inside your ear

The symptoms described by the woman in the case study include:

Beating sounds

Clicking sounds

Rustling sounds

The feeling of something crawling in your ear

Theres an extremely sensitive, thin layer of skin that lines the ear canal, Kasle said. Because of its sensitivity, youre obviously going to feel the crawling sensation, a tickle sensation that is almost unbearable.

How to remove a bug inside your ear

If you think you have a bug in your ear, don't stick your finger or a Q-tip inside because it could shove it further in. Don't try to remove it with tweezers or anything else because it could damage your ear.

Safer options include pouring vegetable oil, olive oil or baby oil into the ear, which could drown it or slide it out, or tilting your ear down and shaking your head, which could help the bug get out by itself.

Most of the time the ear is completely fine, Ishman said. If theres some injury to the ear canal, quite honestly its more often from people trying to get it out than it is from the bug itself.

If you do have an insect inside your ear, consult a health care professional, even if you're able to remove it on your own, to make sure the bug didn't leave anything behind.

How to prevent a spider from getting in your ear

While it's rare to have a spider or insect work its way into your ear while you're sleeping, the best way to prevent it from happening is by keeping your home free of bugs, Gangloff-Kaufmann says.

Ways to do this include:

Filling in gaps and cracks where bugs can enter your home

Keeping your home, especially your kitchen, clean

Getting rid of moisture around the house, including wiping down sinks and bathtubs after use, running a dehumidifier, etc.

That said, Gangloff-Kaufmann is quick to caution that a spider in your ear isn't the most common way crawling creatures work their way into our systems. Honestly, we all probably eat more insects in processed foods than through any other means, she says.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
Secretary of State Antony Blinken listens as China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks after a bilateral meeting at the State Department in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana)

WASHINGTON (AP)  China's top diplomat said Thursday that dialogue between Beijing and Washington should not only be resumed but deepened, comments that raise hopes the relationship between the world's two largest economies can be steadied in the midst of potentially world-changing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe.

Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister, spoke at the beginning of a three-day visit to Washington, during which he is meeting with high-level U.S. officials, including possibly President Joe Biden , at a time both countries are eager to stem any further decline in their ties.

The China and U.S. sides need dialogue. We should resume dialogue, and what we need more is to deepen our dialogue, and have all-around dialogue, Wang said before going into a closed-door meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken . Through dialogue, we will increase understanding and reduce misunderstanding and misjudgment.

With Blinken looking on, Wang said China will seek consensus and cooperation to "push the relationship as soon as possible back to the track of healthy, stable and sustainable development.

Blinken and Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan , are expected to press Wang on the importance of China stepping up its role on the world stage if it wants to be considered a responsible major international player.

The U.S. has been disappointed with China over its support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and its relative silence on the war between Israel and Hamas. In addition, Beijing and Washington are at odds on issues such as human rights, climate change, Taiwan, the South China Sea and North Korea.

Wangs meetings could set the stage for a summit between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders gathering in San Francisco.

Both sides have expressed a willingness to talk since Blinken canceled a visit to China in February after the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon over the U.S., which marked a low point in recent relations.

In the months that followed that crisis, Blinken rescheduled his trip and went to China in June. He was followed in quick succession by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

In addition, Sullivan met with Wang in Malta in mid-September ahead of Blinken's discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng later that month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. And Blinken spoke just last week with Wang about the Israel-Hamas crisis.

The goal, according to U.S. officials, is to arrange another Biden-Xi summit at which the two leaders could explore cooperation or at least easing outright hostility on the most pressing matters of the day.

Wang Yis visit will serve as one of the final touchpoints in laying the groundwork for the Biden-Xi meeting, said Ryan Hass, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institute, a Washington-based think tank. Wangs meetings in Washington will set the contours for the topics the two leaders will discuss when they meet in November.

It opens the possibility of the worlds two largest powers pursuing coordinated efforts to limit escalation or expansion of violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, he said.

Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, another Washington think tank, said Wang's trip signals that the Xi-Biden summit is almost certain.

Wang is here to pave the ground for Xi's San Francisco trip. Thats the core focus of the trip. It means issues will be negotiated, solutions will be discussed and details will be deliberated and inked, Sun said. The APEC summit is 20 days away, so time is of essence. His trip means that Xi is coming. Xis coming means meeting with Biden. The Xi-Biden summit means efforts to stabilize bilateral ties.

Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said it is important for Wang and the Americans to discuss points of contention in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere but that it is unlikely the two sides will reach much agreement.

However, Wang's trip could yield results such as additional direct flights between the two countries, visas for more journalists and even agreements on climate change and resumption of high-level military dialogue, Kennedy said.

On Thursday, the Pentagon confirmed Chinese reports that Cynthia Carras, principal director for China, Taiwan, Mongolia, will represent the U.S. Defense Department at the Xiangshan Forum, which begins Sunday in Beijing. The forum organizers earlier this week said she had registered for the event, along with Chad Sbragia, a former Pentagon official.

Wu Qian, a spokesman for the Chinese Defense Ministry, said relevant Chinese officials will conduct exchanges with her. He also said Beijing attaches great importance to the development of military-to-military relations" between the two countries.

During Wang's visit to Washington, he will have in-depth exchanges of views with U.S. officials on a range of issues and state Chinas principled position and legitimate concerns on relations between the two countries, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

The Chinese president last came to the U.S. in 2017, when former President Donald Trump hosted him at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Biden, who took office in 2021, has yet to host Xi on U.S. soil. The two men last met in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022, on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting of leading rich and developing nations.

Wang's trip is one of a string of meetings and activities to warm up Xi's visit to the U.S.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is visiting China this week, had a surprise meeting with Xi on Wednesday in Beijing. The Chinese president told the governor that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more, according to the official news agency Xinhua.

Earlier this month, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led a delegation of six senators to China, in the first visit by U.S. lawmakers since 2019. Schumer was also received by Xi, who said the Thucydides Trap is not inevitable. The Thucydides Trap is a political term for the tendency of major clashes when an emerging power challenges an existing power.

The U.S.-China relationship began to sour in 2018 when the Trump administration slapped hefty tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. It deteriorated further over a range of issues, including rights abuses, the South China Sea, Taiwan, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic.
PHOENIX - For the first time, Major League Baseball allowed teams this year to wear sponsorship logos on their jerseys, and a company in the Phoenix area was one of the first to sign a multi-year deal.

At the start of the season, almost no one expected the Arizona Diamondbacks to head to the World Series, but with the team now set to play ball in front of a national audience, the name Avnet will also be displayed to a wider audience as a result.

So, what's Avnet?

Avnet's logo on an Arizona Diamondbacks jersey.

According to the company's website, Avnet is described as a "global technology distributor and solutions provider."

"Avnet has served customers evolving needs for an entire century. We act as an extension of our customers teams, so they can leverage our deep technical and supply chain expertise to maximize their return on investment throughout the product life cycle," read a portion of the descriptions.

The company, according to officials, was founded in 1921, and has over 15,000 employees.

Company CEO speaks

The company's CEO, Phil Gallagher, is a D-backs fan going back to the last time the team was in the World Series, in 2001.

"I was there with my son," said Gallagher.

Gallagher was talking about Game Seven of the 2001 World Series.

"It was unbelievable," Gallagher recounted.

As we mentioned above, Avnet was among the first companies to sign a multi-year deal with MLB teams. Gallagher admits he was hesitant at first.

"I'm like, we're in business to business. Tough to justify," Gallagher said. "I got to give credit to our CFO, Ken Jacobson, who said we got to go talk to these guys. We got to meet them."

When the deal was signed, the D-backs had a lot of rookies, and two years prior, the team had a 110 loss season. A World Series run was likely far from the minds of many.

"I got to admit, I did not sign up and say hey, lets go to the World Series and it will be a win.' We just signed up because of values," said Gallagher. "This has been the old saying, playing with house money. This is bonus money, because now, we're truly getting national exposure."

Avnet's logo may now be on a World Series jersey, but it is also where that patch is placed that is important.

"I got to give credit to the D-backs. You can see that patch. You can't miss it," said Gallagher.

It is fair to say, in a possibly cliched manner, that Avnet has hit a homerun.
Amid a line of residents that that spanned the length of Ocean City Elementary School, the public got their chance to sound off on the preliminary impact statement for proposed offshore wind development.

The listening session held Tuesday evening by the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management was an opportunity to see slides from the official Maryland Offshore Wind Draft Environmental Impact Statement for locations in both Ocean City and Bethany Beach. That, however, still left many in attendance unsatisfied.

BOEM: Offshore wind energy plan 'not a done deal'

The expansive report covers everything from permits, proposed construction details and likely impacts on the view scape in both locations. Data also outlined implications on the ecosystem and sea floor in the proposed lease area.

"This is an opportunity for the public to speak with our subject matter experts and get answers to any questions and get their public comment," said Lorena Edenfield, an environmental protection specialist for BOEM. "Their comments will influence the final Environmental Impact Statement. This isn't a done deal and we're in the middle of the environmental review process."

A mock-up image of the proposed view scape in Ocean City is included in the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Enviornmental Impact Statement and includes the completed project in the image.

Edenfield noted revisions could still be made with a formally submitted Construction and Operation Plan still being able to be approved, denied or approved with modification. A 45-day public comment period on the draft statement started on Oct. 6 during which the public has an opportunity to submit written comments, attend in-person meetings, or two virtual meetings.

This is the most significant step forward in the history of Maryland offshore wind," said Jeff Grybowski, US Wind CEO, in a previously released statement. "BOEMs draft environmental impact statement sets us on a path toward starting construction on our offshore wind projects in 2025, putting Marylands goals that much closer to reality. We are proud to be the first to deliver this clean energy to Delmarva and look forward to the day we can get steel in the water.

More on public comments Ocean City and wind energy: How to make your voice heard on impact statement

'It's worse than I thought': Ocean City meeting attendees respond

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management held a comment session Tuesday, Oct. 24 at Ocean City Elementary School for the proposed offshore wind turbines to be placed off the coast of Ocean City.

Much of the public, including elected officials in attendance, took umbrage that it was not a town hall meeting but rather a presentation of slides from the report, with members of the bureau available for questions.

"It's worse than I thought it was going to be," said Lucy Whittman, a vacation property owner in Delaware. "I expected to see some of the turbines but hoped it wouldn't be visible. But what I'm seeing right now is horrible. We have two properties in Delaware that we've had for over 10 years, but we've been visiting for 40 years. It's very concerning the speed in which this development occurred."

For Whittman and many others reviewing the slides, their solution was to stop the project altogether.

"I'm concerned that there's nothing we can do to stop it at this point. This is a tragic interruption of pristine coastline," Whittman said.

'Closer and much larger': Concerns only increase for some in audience

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management held a comment session Tuesday, Oct. 24 at Ocean City Elementary School for the proposed offshore wind turbines to be placed off the coast of Ocean City.

For others, like Ocean City resident Martin Branagan, the main issue was lack of transparency in the proposed construction plan. Branagan noted initial discussions on potential offshore wind development had the structures further from the coastline and with considerably smaller turbines.

"Now it's closer and much larger, and I don't think this company cares because they're out to make money," Branagan said. "The problem is that if the leadership in Annapolis wants it, it's going through regardless of what the public here today thinks. The company has already lied about where it's going to be and its size, so once they approve this project, there's no telling what other changes they'll make to plans."

That same skepticism was echoed by many who questioned where (the transfer lines from the turbines) come to shore and where the electricity substations were to be placed to process and transfer the created energy.

Also like many in attendance, relocating to areas like Ocean City and Bethany Beach was centered around the natural beauty of the locale. With many seeing the revised view scape of the shore for the first time, residents lamented the project going further into development.

"I lived in Baltimore my whole life and I always wanted to live here even as a child, so we moved 12 years ago," Branagan said. "This isn't what we came here for and I'm not planning on moving, but if we did, what would these towers do to my property value? For people on the beach, this is even more of an eyesore than the company initially proposed."

More on where offshore wind already is Moore wants Maryland to lead on offshore wind, and here's how Crisfield is already pioneer

US Wind and rsted currently have federal leasing agreements to operate their scores of turbines in the ocean between 15 to 21 miles off the coast of Maryland. The Baltimore-based US Wind is considering properties in Ocean City for the maintenance and operations of the turbines that are scheduled to be operational by 2026.

This article originally appeared on Salisbury Daily Times: Anger flows at Ocean City presentation on offshore wind projects
(NEXSTAR)  As police intensify their search for the gunman who killed at least 18 people at a bowling alley in Maine, survivors are recounting how they escaped the shooting that thrust the states second-largest city into chaos Wednesday night.

The shooting started at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston around 7 p.m.

A man who identified himself only by his first name, Brandon, said he was only at the alley for a few minutes for a solo night of bowling when he heard a loud pop that he initially thought was a balloon. Then, he saw the gunman.

I had my back turned to the door, he told the Associated Press. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon, [the suspect] was holding a weapon, I just booked it.

Maine mass shooting: What we know so far

Brandon said he heard ten gunshots, ran down a bowling lane without his shoes on, slid into the area where the pins reside, and climbed into the machinery to hide until police arrived.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said in the early Thursday morning interview.

10-year-old girl and mom barricaded themselves in room

Zoey Levesque, 10, was at the alley for a practice session with her youth bowling league when shots rang out.

A bullet grazed the young girl as she and her mom, Meghan Hutchinson, were running from the gunman, Good Morning America reported.

Its scary, Levesque said in an interview with the outlet. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

People depart a reunification center early Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at Auburn Middle School, in Auburn, Maine, after shootings in Lewiston. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

A sign signals the public to shelter in place during an active shooter situation on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. (Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via AP)

A police officer stands at a road closure near a bowling alley, seen in background, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. The site is one of Wednesdays two mass shootings in the city. Residents have been ordered to shelter in place as police continue to search for the suspect. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

Hutchinson said she, her daughter, and other families barricaded themselves in a back room for about 20 minutes.

While we were in the back room, another child came in whose arm had a massive hole in it and he was bleeding profusely, Hutchinson said.

She said another parent called 911 as they hid. Meanwhile, Hutchinson moved a shelf in front of the room door until officers came to rescue them. When police did arrive, Hutchinson said everyone was afraid to let them inside. The officers eventually forced their way in and took the survivors to the parking lot.

This was probably the worst night of our lives, she said.

Felt like it lasted a lifetime

Another family at the site of the shooting said they laid on top of each other to shield themselves. Riley Dumont told ABC News her 11-year-old daughter was also participating in a childrens bowling league when the gunman stormed in.

Dumont said her father, a retired police officer, corralled them into a corner and placed tables and a bench in front of them.

I was lying on top of my daughter. My mother was lying on top of me, she said. It felt like it lasted a lifetime.

Suspect in Maine killings taken for evaluation in July

A police intelligence bulletin identified Robert Card, who was trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine, as the person of interest in the shooting.

Police had taken him for an evaluation in July after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

Card is facing an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder. Police said he should be considered armed and dangerous.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KFOR.com Oklahoma City.
XPeng is often called the Chinese challenger to Tesla for its efforts to bring advanced driving capabilities to its electric vehicles. It's now getting a step closer to its American counterpart as it gets rid of high-definition mapping in its XNGP assisted driving feature, its equivalent to Tesla FSD.

Tesla FSD famously does not rely on HD maps, which contain many details such as lane lines, curbs, traffic signs and more. The use of this pre-computed information, combined with sensors like radars and cameras, can help autonomous driving cars to understand the road better and thus drive more safely.

Tesla not only opted out of HD maps but also made the controversial move to eliminate lidars, the powerful light detection and ranging method that's a staple sensing technology in the development of self-driving cars.

XPeng still uses lidars, but it's taken on a technical challenge by rolling out map-free XNGP in 20 Chinese cities soon, the company announced at its tech day on Wednesday. Being map-free means XPeng's urban assisted driving feature can drive anywhere, unlimited by where maps have been made or road condition updated. By the end of this year, the map-free XNGP will be available in 50 Chinese cities.

It's an interesting time to witness XPeng's tech development progress as the company transitions into a new era after losing its former head of autonomous driving to Nvidia.

Other autonomous vehicle teams in China are also racing to remove the expensive HD maps. Deeproute, which has shifted its focus from developing robotaxis to assisted driving for mass-produced passenger cars, unveiled its map-free autonomous driving solution in March.
The world according to Yascha Mounk is a bleak place: In the stranglehold of a new ideology, contemporary society has abandoned the liberal tenets that once guided it, in favor of race-based segregation and discrimination. This ideology is not, as you might be thinking, that of Donald Trump or Ron DeSantis. It is not the fascism of the new right. No, it is an ideology of the left. What some call wokeism, identity politics, or cultural Marxism, Mounk terms the identity synthesis.

In The Identity Trap: A Story of Ideas and Power in Our Time, Mounk spins a tale of how once obscure academic thought came to shape society. Starting with French philosopher Michel Foucault and working his way through postmodern thinkers including Edward Said, Gayatri Spivak, Derrick Bell, and Kimberle Crenshaw, he contends that their complex scholarly ideas evolved over the last 50 years into the identity synthesis. This synthesis, according to Mounk, is an ideology that encompasses a rejection of grand narratives, the embrace of the need for intellectuals to speak on behalf of oppressed groups, and a rejection of racial integration, along with other key values of the civil rights movement. Out of a desire to help oppressed groups, that is, grew an ideology that ultimately reifies identity and rejects the possibility of cross-group solidarity.

Mounk begins his story with capsule histories of these scholars, arguing that their ideas escaped the ivory tower. Spreading from out-of-the-way conference panels and niche academic departments, they first became dominant within academia at large and then in other elite institutions.

They have spread through two mechanisms, Mounk argues. First, he identifies the internet, specifically social media sites such as Tumblr, as a vector for the spread of bowdlerized versions of these strands of academic thought. Second, he contends that progressive graduates of elite universities made a short march through the institutions (a spoof on West German 68er Rudi Dutschkes call for a long march through the institutions). Instead of hanging around the academy, those graduates, Mounk tells us, are now employees (or even leaders) at powerful corporations, nonprofits, and governments, where they spread their teachers gospel.

A simplified version of the identity synthesis has thus, in Mounks view, become dominant across the country, leading elite institutions and governments to discriminate on the basis of gender and race in the name of lifting up historically marginalized groups. He points to a handful of examples, such as a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention panels preliminary recommendation in 2020 that Covid vaccines should be made available to essential workers before the elderly, as evidence of the tremendous influence that the identity synthesis enjoys as it has reshaped some of the most powerful institutions in the country.





Its a straightforward story. But it only hangs together if you dont press too hard. In particular, Mounks argument suffers from two major flaws.

First, ideas seem to take on a life of their own in his account. Mounk has more or less gotten the academic theory right. Michel Foucaults critique of power did reject grand narratives, including much of the liberal tradition. What Gayatri Spivak termed strategic essentialism has been an important tactic for minoritized groups struggling for liberation (although theres nothing new here: As Jason Blakely recently pointed out in a critique of The Identity Trap, whats often termed identity politics goes back to at least the first European nationalists of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries). Scholars like Kimberle Crenshaw have critiqued the way that liberal jurisprudence limits the scope of liberation.

But trouble starts when Mounk argues that a new generation of scholars succeeded in welding a diverse set of influences into one coherent ideology. This ideology, he writes, consists of seven fundamental propositions, namely skepticism toward objective truth, politicized discourse analysis, the embrace of essentialist categories of identity, pessimism about the West, a preference for policies that make how someone is treated depend on the group to which they belong, intersectional logic for political activism, and skepticism about the ability of members of different identity groups to understand each other. Now, in my experience, its difficult to get a group of academics to agree on any one proposition, let alone seven. But that is not the biggest problem with the book.

How, when, and even whether these ideas escaped their academic homes is the real quandary. Most of Mounks thinkers penned their famous essays and monographs decades ago. Foucault published Discipline and Punish in 1975, and Crenshaw coined the term intersectionality in 1989. Why did their ideas only make it into the mainstreamaccording to Mounkmany years later? What spurred college graduates to make their short march in the 2010s as opposed, to, say, the 1990s?

Part of Mounks answer lies in technology: the rise of social media and the unprecedented democratization of knowledge it represents (for good or ill). The other answer Mounk gives is the 2016 presidential election. Donald Trumps nativist campaign spurred a new generation of activists to take lingering racism (and misogyny) more seriously. The widespread horror at the election of Donald Trump, he insists, accelerated the takeover of the identity synthesis in many elite institutions. Worse, he writes, leftists started to turn on each other, seeking to make a difference within progressive institutions as they were barred from the halls of power in Washington, D.C.

That story is, in my view, not incorrect so much as incomplete. Most of Mounks examples of the identity synthesis cluster around the year 2020. And while Trumps presidencyand the horror it inspired among many progressive Americanswas undoubtedly a catalyst for the rising popularity of certain ideas, such as diversity, equity, and inclusion or intersectionality, that Mounk identifies as elements of the identity synthesis, he largely skates by the effects of that years two major events. The first, of course, is the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced much of the nation indoors and into isolation. As concern about the disease has receded and life has returned to normal, it seems (anecdotally) like public passion for DEI and other hallmarks of the identity synthesis has also retreated.

But, even more surprising, Mounk barely mentions what I would argue is the true catalyst for the spread of some of these ideas, namely the police murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. His killing spurred some of the largest protests in American history and made racial equity impossible for governments and corporations to ignore. Under pressure from progressives shocked by the brutality of Floyds death, city councils around the country explored efforts to shrink or defund police departments. Corporate America promised to do more to hire, retain, and promote BIPOC employees. I was surprised that, in a book largely concerned with contemporary racial politics in the United States, Floyds death is mentioned only once. After all, the summer of 2020 did mark a real break in the countrys racial politics and a breakthrough of many of the concepts that Mounk critiques.

I do not know why Mounk ignores this catalyzing moment. But if he had talked about police violence against Black Americans, it might have resulted in a far more reasonable picture of why certain ideas could have garnered a second look in 2020 from progressives desperate to stop such brutality.

The larger problem for Mounks narrative is that many of the ideas that swept onto the scene in 2020 have ebbed just as quickly in the months and years since. Calls for reforming or defunding the police have for instance mostly lost traction. By last year, most municipalities were back to business as usual, granting local police departments large budget increases. Diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, efforts have been rolled back around the country, often as a result of government intervention (not to mention the Supreme Courts 2023 decisions striking down affirmative action).

This leads me to the second major flaw in Mounks argument: It is my opinion that he is, ultimately, arguing against a straw man. Now, every good straw man has a kernel of truth to it. The thinkers he cites are major influences on humanists writing today, and some of their ideas have made their way into the mainstream. I also do not deny that, if you go looking for them, you can and will find examples of people (sometimes people in positions of power) behaving in frankly idiotic ways while claiming to be inspired by these ideas. But such examples are few and far between and, as I have noted, tend to cluster around the year 2020.

When Mounk does hit on a good example, he tends to recycle it. He begins the book with the case of Sharyn Briscoe, a Black principal in Georgia who was accused in 2021 of sorting students into Black and white classrooms. Briscoe had done so, apparently, under the belief that it was better for children who look like each other to be placed together. This case, which resulted in an ongoing federal investigation by the Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights, pops up two more times in the book.

The case of Emmanuel Cafferty crops up twice. An electrician from southern California, Cafferty was photographed in June 2020 with his hand making a gesture that people on Twitter misinterpreted as a white power symbol. As a result, he lost his job and is suing for wrongful termination.

Then there is the example of that CDC panel from 2020, which also comes up twice and forms the crux of one of Mounks chapters. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices issued nonbinding guidelines in early December 2020, which recommended that essential workers receive scarce Covid-19 vaccinations before older Americans. It justified the decision as a way to introduce racial equity to vaccine distribution, noting that essential workers are less likely to be white than older Americans. After a public outcry, the panel changed course, recommending a few weeks later that older Americans get access before most essential workers.

One of the books principal conceits is that these case studies are part of a larger trend. At one point, Mounk asserts that many schools have introduced race-segregated affinity groups. Elsewhere, he insists there is an extraordinary upswell of attempts to fire or ostracize people for alleged violations of community norms. He also suggests that a large number of people have been summarily fired from their jobs for offenses either trivial or imaginary. Although the book is unusually well sourced for a trade publication, none of these statements has a citation that backs up the claim that these cases are anything other than isolated incidents. There are no hard data to ground what amounts to anecdotal observation.

The fact of the matter is, there are no statistics showing a meaningful rise in this kind of behavior (at least none that Ive seen), which is why Mounk has to rely on a handful of isolated incidents. Its also worth reiterating that in many of his examples, the proposal or action that Mounk cites as evidence of the identity synthesis was quickly rejected or overturned, suggesting that these ideas are far less influential than Mounk would have his readers believe.

If there were, in fact, an extraordinary upswell of attempts to fire people who did not conform to the identity synthesis, you might expect to see a commensurate increase in wrongful termination suits. But this is not the case. And in the handful of cases in which individuals have filed such suits alleging that workplace diversity trainings discriminated against them as white people, courts have largely sided with their employers. Theres simply no there there.

The identity synthesis was never dominant in this country and, at most, enjoyed a blip of widespread interest around 2020 before again receding.

In fact, one of the few areas in which we do have reliable statistics paints a strikingly different picture. Cases of cancellation on university campuses have indeed been on the rise in recent years: scholars bullied, censored, or even fired for their scholarly or political views. The problem for writers like Mounk, though, is that many of these cases are of left-wing scholars being harassed by right-wing students, politicians, or organizations. Jeffrey Sachs, a scholar who tracks faculty terminations, found that between 2015 and 2016, vastly more faculty were disciplined for left-wing speech than for right-wing speech.

Data from FIRE, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, which also maintains a database of campus free speech cases, indicates that the number of right- and left-wing incidents are roughly equal so far in 2023. And although some have raised questions about FIREs methodology, suggesting that it undercounts cases of harassment inspired by the right, the organization notes that the largest surge in sanction attempts was driven by conservative group Turning Point USA calling on parents and students to contact the institutions of 61 professors featured on their Professor Watchlist website.

Yes, there are certainly cases of left-wing students and faculty petitioning for right-wing scholars to be disciplined, disinvited, or even fired. But the data hardly show a dominant woke or identitarian ideology taking over college campuses. Compared to right-wing efforts in state government to ban books and rewrite university and K-12 curricula, these cases seem downright insignificant.

While Mounk has identified some very real strands of academic thought, he thus exaggerates their coherence as well as their influence on contemporary politics and society. The identity synthesisto the extent that we can even describe it as an intelligible ideologywas never dominant in this country and, at most, enjoyed a blip of widespread interest around 2020 before again receding.





Over the last decade, a group of writers often termed reactionary centrists have turned complaining about wokeness, cancel culture, and identity politics into a small industry.

A better question might be why so many writers have decided to focus on such a seemingly insignificant phenomenon. Over the last decade, a group of writers often termed reactionary centrists have turned complaining about wokeness, cancel culture, identity politics, and the like into a small industry. I dont claim to know the personal motivation of these writers and pundits, but in the years since they have forced these buzzwords into common parlance, far-right politicians have seized on them to enact reactionary policies. Decrying the woke liberal agenda, a candidate for governor in Missouri recently talked about burning books (and used a flamethrower on a pile of cardboard boxes to underscore his point). Ron DeSantiss signature Stop WOKE Act was passed in 2022, gagging teachers and scholars and censoring discussion of race and gender. In the name of stopping wokeness, 14 states have promulgated laws that restrict discussion of LGBTQ issues in K-12 education. In the case of wokeness (or the identity synthesis) the cure is much, much worse than the disease.

To Mounks credit, he does engage with some of these arguments. He points out that he has already written two books about the far right. He also urges his readers not to let annoyance with the identity synthesis turn them into a reactionary. Nonetheless, I worry that that is precisely what a book like this may do. By exaggerating the threat posed by these progressive ideas, which only ever briefly enjoyed any real reception or influence, he makes it easier for his readers to ignore the much more real threat menacing from the right.

For if we are worried about free speech, equal opportunity, and human dignity, we should be far more concerned about Republicans who have spent the last years banning books, restricting health care, and censoring education. That is the path to illiberalism; there lies the road to fascism.
Ukrainian presidential chief-of-staff Andriy Yermak spoke to U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan

Ukrainian presidential chief-of-staff Andriy Yermak spoke to U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan regarding joint arms production and the implementation of Ukraines peace plan at an upcoming summit in Malta, the Ukrainian presidents office reported on Oct. 26.

The two also discussed the operational situation in various parts of the frontline and the effectiveness of U.S.-made weapons against the Russian military.

Read also: Russia claims first interceptions of ATACMS missiles, Ukraine responds

Yermak also thanked President Biden, the House of Representatives and the Senate for their "strong support for Ukraine and Ukrainians in the struggle for freedom, independence and democratic values in Europe.

The latest U.S. security assistance package to Ukraine was announced on Oct. 11  the package contains $200 million worth of military equipment, primarily in ammunition, but also contains additional air defense equipment, anti-tank weapons, and other materiel.

Read also: Strike on Zaporizhzhya apartment, analysis of ATACMS strike, foothold across Dnipro

Kyiv also received U.S-made ATACMS missiles with cluster payloads from Washington. Using these missiles, Ukrainian forces struck two air bases near the Russian-occupied cities of Berdyansk and Luhansk on Oct. 17, marking the first time that the U.S.-provided weapons have been used in the war.

Earlier, National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) secretary Oleksiy Danilov said that Ukraine would continue to receive ATACMS missiles until the occupied territories are liberated.

Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron!

Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine
Election Day 2023 is almost here, though it may not be common knowledge, with no race for president, governor, or even state house on the ballot. Only a handful of cities across Miami-Dade will participate.

But for the tens of thousands of voters who do have decisions to make on Nov. 7, heres information on when, where and how to vote.

Who is voting?

Hialeah, Homestead, Miami, Miami Beach and Surfside are holding elections on Nov. 7. In some of these cities, only residents in specific neighborhoods will be voting. (See below for tips on how to determine whether that includes you.)

CHECK OUT THE MIAMI HERALD VOTER GUIDE

Whats on the ballot?

Precincts around Florida are open on Nov. 7 from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., when voters must be standing in line in order to be eligible to vote in the states primary election.

In Hialeah, residents will be voting for city council members for Groups I and IV.

For Group I, the candidates are Elias D. Montes de Oca and Councilwoman Monica Nicole Perez.

In Group IV the candidates are Councilwoman Vivian Casals-Munoz and Angelica Pacheco.

For information on this election, residents can visit the City of Hialeahs website.

In Homestead, residents will be voting for city council members for Seats 1, 2, 3 and 6.

For the Seat 1 race, the candidates are Thomas B. Davis, Amy Spadaro and James Wyatt.

In the Seat 2 race, the candidates running are Councilman Sean L. Fletcher and Ana San Roman.

In the Seat 3 race, the candidates are William R. Rea and Councilman Larry Roth.

The candidates running for the Seat 6 position are Clemente Canabal and Toshiba Mitchell.

Residents can visit the City of Homesteads website for information on the election.

For the City of Miami election, residents will be voting for commissioners in Districts 1, 2 and 4.

RELATED CONTENT: Heres where the candidates for Miami commissioner stand on key issues facing the city

The candidates for District 1 include suspended Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla, Miguel Angel Gabela, Francisco Frank Pichel, Mercedes Merci Rodriguez and Marvin Tapia.

The candidates for District 2 are Commissioner Sabina Covo, Michael Castro, Gabriela Chirinos, Alicia Kossick, Eddy V. Leal, Damian Pardo, Christi Tasker and James Torres.

The candidates for District 4 include Commissioner Manolo Reyes and Andres Andy Vallina.

Voters can look at the City of Miamis website for more details on this election.

For the Miami Beach election, residents will elect a new mayor and new commissioners for Groups IV, V and VI.

RELATED CONTENT: Miami Beach will vote for new commissioners. What you should know about the candidates

The candidates running for mayor are Michael Gongora, Mike Grieco, Commissioner Steven Meiner and Bill Roedy.

RELATED CONTENT: Miami Beach will elect a new mayor. What you should know about the four candidates

In Group IV, the candidates are Andres Asion and Tanya Katzoff Bhatt.

In Group V, the candidates are Mitch Novick and David Suarez.

The candidates in Group VI are Joe Magazine and Marcella Novela.

READ MORE: Heres where the candidates for Miami Beach mayor and commissioner stand on key issues

To learn more about this election, residents can visit the City of Miami Beach website.

Surfside residents will be voting on five different ballot questions.

Voters are being asked to decide if they want to double the length of terms awarded to city commissioners, require that the winner of the mayors race receive more than 50% support and if they want to create a process to remove commissioners who fall out of compliance with the towns residency requirements for elected officials, among other issues.

For more information on the Surfside special election, visit the towns website.

Can I vote early?

Early voting hours in Miami-Dades 2023 municipal elections vary from municipality to municipality.

Unlike in presidential and midterm years, early voting hours and days vary from city to city. Heres information on early voting for each of the upcoming elections:

For the Hialeah election, the John F. Kennedy Library at 190 West 49th St. will be open Oct. 30 to Nov. 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m and Nov. 4 to Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For the Homestead election, William F. Dickinson Community Center at 1601 North Krome Ave. will be open on Nov. 2 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m, Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m and Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For Miami, the early voting schedule will be Oct. 28 to Nov. 5 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. The early voting locations are the Allapattah Library, Shenandoah Library, Miami City Hall, Lemon City Library, West Flagler Library and the Stephen P. Clark Center.

For Miami Beach, the early voting schedule is Oct. 23 to Oct. 27 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m; Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m; Oct. 30 to Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m; and Nov. 4 and Nov. 5 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Voters can cast their ballots early in the first floor conference room at Miami Beach City Hall at 1700 Convention Center Dr. and at the North Shore Library at 7501 Collins Ave.

There is no early voting in Surfside this election.

How do I vote by mail?

Mail in ballots wait for sorting at the Supervisor of Elections Office on Nov. 8, 2022.

Voters who have requested mail ballots in the past should probably have already received their vote-by-mail ballot this year if they were slated to receive one, and should check with the elections department to make sure they have an active request on file. Due to changes to state law, many past requests have expired.

Voters can request vote-by-mail ballots from the county elections department online. Voters can also fill out a paper form and mail it to the following address: Vote-by-Mail Ballot Section Supervisor of Elections P.O. Box 521250 Miami, FL 33152

Oct. 26 is the deadline to request a mail ballot for any of the mentioned Nov. 7 elections.

Where do I vote on Election Day?

Election Day is Nov. 7 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at your assigned precinct location. Some voters may find that their Election Day polling location has changed. Residents who plan to vote on Election Day can review their information here or call the elections department at 305-499-VOTE (8683).

Make sure to bring a valid ID with you on Election Day. Without it, you will not be able to vote. For more information about what forms of identification are acceptable, visit the countys website.

Am I eligible to vote?

In order to vote in the upcoming elections, you must be 18 years of age or older, a citizen of the United States and a resident of Miami-Dade County. To check to see if youre eligible to vote or to check your voter information, you can go to the countys website.
Authorities are searching for a man accused of leading deputies on a cross-county chase Thursday in South Carolina.

The York County Sheriffs Office told Channel 9s Almiya White they were chasing someone in a stolen car down Highway 5 toward Indian Land just before 1 p.m.

The chase crossed the county line into the Bridgehampton area of Lancaster County before the suspect crashed in Ballantyne on Ardrey Kell Road, right near the state line.

ALSO READ: Vehicle erupts in flames after police chase wanted suspect across county lines

Deputies said the driver got out of the car and ran.

At the scene of the crash, White could see a damaged car and a large area blocked off by crime scene tape. One woman told White she saw the driver crash into a tree. She said he almost hit her before crashing into a light pole and tree.

She said she was driving out of the neighborhood when she saw the man in the stolen car driving on the wrong side of the road.

Deputies havent shared a description of the man theyre looking for or what his charges will be, but said theyre still searching for him.

The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department and the Lancaster County Sheriffs Office are helping with the investigation. The York County Sheriffs Office is the lead agency.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

(WATCH BELOW: 1 dead in crash on I-77 in York County)




New York Governor Kathy Hochul meets with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2023 in Israel. Hochuls father died overnight while she was touring wartime Israel, with the teary-eyed governor slipping a note grieving the loss into Jerusalems Western Wall holy site. (Micah Lasher/Office of Governor Kathy Hochul)

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  New York Gov. Kathy Hochul 's office on Thursday announced taxpayers will cover the costs of her recent visit to wartime Israel, reversing course after a nonprofit was supposed to pick up the tab but has yet to receive clearance from a state ethics panel.

The Democratic governor and a handful of staff and state police were in Israel last week, touring the country and meeting with officials and families displaced by the conflict.

Hochul had sidestepped multiple questions on who funded the trip, with her office saying only that a nonprofit group pledged to pay and that an ethics panel was reviewing the arrangement.

On Thursday, Hochul spokesperson Avi Small said the state will instead pay for the trip because the ethics board has not yet made a formal determination on the nonprofit group. He said the trip was initially going to be reimbursed by the UJA-Federation, a nonprofit that has previously paid for elected officials to travel to Israel.

The cost of the visit, including airfare, food and hotels for the governor and her staff, was about $12,000, Small said.

A spokesperson for the state Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government has said state law blocks them from commenting.

Hochul, who as governor has no direct role in diplomatic affairs, justified the trip as a way for her to show support for the Israeli people during the ongoing war. New York has the highest population of Jewish people outside of Israel.

Blair Horner, executive director for the New York Public Interest Research Group, said Hochul should have gotten the trip approved by state ethics officials to ensure the nonprofit did not have ties to business before the state or other connections that could raise ethical issues.

The governor should have gotten preclearance from the ethics commission before she did anything, before wheels lifted from the tarmac, Horner said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom made a one-day trip to Israel last week to meet with people affected by Israels war with Hamas, stopping there on his way to China for a weeklong tour focused on climate change policies.

Newsoms office said his international travel is paid for by the California State Protocol Foundation, which can accept donations on the governors behalf to pay for travel and other expenses so the state doesnt have to use tax dollars. Newsom has transferred at least $4 million from his inaugural fund to the foundation since he was elected in 2019. That fund includes money from campaign donors.
Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost said he believes 33-year-old Rebecca Auborn, who is accused of purposefully causing four people to fatally overdose, fits the definition of a serial killer.

What makes someone a serial killer?

The definition among academics, forensic profilers and psychologists may differ, varying based on the number of people killed, the length of time between deaths and the method used.

But for Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost , 33-year-old Rebecca Auborn fits the definition.

"For me, if youve got somebody that has a series of killings that are separated in time, theyre a serial killer," Yost told The Dispatch Thursday afternoon. "We have the same MO here. Could there be arguments about whether that fits? Pick your definition, and it fits, or it doesn't."

Auborn is charged in four fatal overdoses and one non-fatal overdose that occurred between December 22 and July 17. She faces multiple counts of murder, involuntary manslaughter and aggravated robbery, among other charges.

Yost's office announced an indictment against Auborn on Wednesday, saying she met the victims, all of whom were men, for sex. While at hotels, Auborn gave the men fentanyl without their knowledge, resulting in overdoses, investigators said. Auborn then took the men's belongings.

The hotels where these incidents took place are located in the northeast part of Columbus in an area bounded by Interstate 71, Ohio 161, Cleveland Avenue and East 17th Avenue.

A map displays the locations in which a 33-year-old Columbus woman may have drugged and robbed men, potentially resulting in fatal overdoses. Rebecca Auborn was indicted Wednesday on charges related to five overdoses, four of which were fatal.

The indictment, which contains a total of 28 charges, has the victims' names redacted and does not include specific incident locations.

"We are very concerned that there are other victims out there," Yost said. "Only one of the five survived the encounter, so were looking for additional evidence. Its important for people to come forward and help us hold this individual accountable.

"Ive never seen a case similar to this in my career, and having talked to colleagues, they haven't seen this kind of thing."

Yost's office conducts multiple operations a year focused on raising awareness of human trafficking and arresting people who are attempting to buy sex. He expressed concern Thursday that Auborn's case may undo some of the work that has been done in changing the thinking about those, particularly women, who are forced or manipulated to participate in prostitution.

"It would be a real injustice if the actions of this individual were an impediment to other survivors of human trafficking. Most of the women who are survivors are victims," he said. "They are not predators, they are the prey of the predators."

Yost said Columbus police and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation are working together to look into the case, including whether Auborn acted alone.

The attorney general said those who may have survived an encounter with Auborn should not be concerned about prosecution for buying sex.

"Were interested in holding a killer accountable, thats our focus," he said.

Those with information should call the Columbus police tip line at 614-645-2228.

bbruner@dispatch.com

@bethany_bruner

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Yost: Fatal OD suspect, Rebecca Auborn, meets serial killer criteria


Jonathan Majors attends the 95th Annual Academy Awards on March 12, 2023 in Hollywood, California.

Less than 24 hours after a New York judge decided on Wednesday that Marvel stat Jonathan Majors would stand trial next month for his domestic dispute case, his accuser, Grace Jabbari, was arrested.

Per the New York Post, Jabbari turned herself in to Manhattan police Wednesday night where she was subsequently arrested and charged with misdemeanor counts of assault and criminal mischief. She was later released on a desk appearance ticket that same evening, which means shell have to return to criminal court for an arraignment at a later date. Despite her arrest, the D.A.s office in the case have previously stated that they will not prosecute her.

Read more

While we are hopeful that the District Attorney is reviewing these materials in good faith and will do the right thing soon, to accelerate our case, weve requested a trial date ASAP.

Additionally, in a statement to reporters Wednesday night, the attorney representing Jabbari said:



She was the victim in this case and, you know, theyre going to do the right thing. It just happened that we had to come in here. And have her spend and, you know, unfortunately, bad night at the police precinct.

As previously and extensively covered by The Root, Majors currently faces two counts of assault in the third degree, attempted assault in the third degree, aggravated harassment in the second degree, and harassment in the second degree. If convicted, he could spend up to a year in jail.

More from The Root

Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky told European leaders on Oct. 26 that a long-term strategy and endurance are needed in order to overcome the threat of Russia's aggressive ambitions.

"Russia needs to see that its ambitions as an invader will endure less than our ability to defend our freedom," the president said in a video address to EU leaders, convening for a two-day European Council summit in Brussels.

The allied unity has recently encountered several challenges. A populist, Ukraine-skeptic party took leadership of a new government in Slovakia, and similar political forces are growing stronger elsewhere in the West.

In the U.S., the leading military donor to Ukraine, a hard-line faction of Republican lawmakers grows increasingly critical of the support for Kyiv's war effort.

Read also: Opinion: The geopolitics of EU enlargement

Zelensky reminded that despite ideological differences, Europe shares common fundamental values, namely respect for life and for other nations. For that reason, it is a historical responsibility of European nations to safeguard these values and prevent the continent's violent history from repeating itself, he added.

The president thanked Ukraine's partners for their continued support, including military aid and long-term financial support. He specifically highlighted Belgium's efforts to use frozen Russian assets to fund the aid for Ukraine.

Addressing the discussed 12th sanctions package, Ukraine's head of state said it should be more powerful than the previous one and include a crackdown on Russia's circumvention methods.

"The key now is to ensure that all sanctions work to the fullest and that Russia cannot circumvent them... We see that this has become one of the Kremlin's top priorities  to manipulate sanctions and to neutralize them," Zelensky said.

The media reported last week that the EU leadership is starting talks on the new sanctions package, said to include tackling Russia's sanctions evasion and a ban on Russian diamonds.

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said a Russian drone strike Wednesday, which was intercepted by Ukrainian forces, likely targeted the Khmelnitskyi Nuclear Power Plant.

Oct. 26 (UPI) -- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Russia "likely" targeted a power plant that was damaged by debris from a drone attack.

Zelensky said that "two dozen residents were harmed" and windows, doors and roofs at the Khmelnitskyi Nuclear Power Plant were damaged by drone fragments as Ukraine successfully shot them down on Wednesday.

"The Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant, however, was the most likely target of this Russian drone strike. The hit wave also shattered windows on its premises," he said. "This strike near a nuclear power facility serves as another reminder to all of our partners of the importance of strengthening Ukraine's air defense and the dangers that exist when Russia has ways to circumvent global sanctions."

The Ukrainian air force said Wednesday that 11 Shahed-136/131 were involved in the air raid were brought down.

Zelensky called out members of the international community for allegedly providing components to Russia's drone program.

"Many of the components used by Russian terrorists in their combat drones come from various foreign companies, including Western ones. This is why the effectiveness of sanctions practically means the defense against terrorism," Zelensky said.

Nearly 2,000 people were left without power after power lines in the area were damaged but the International Atomic Energy Agency said the damage did not affect the plant's operations or its connection to the national electricity grid.

A power outage in Slavuta, however, did force two of the plant's off-site radiation monitoring stations to briefly rely on backup power supplies.

The IAEA said it was still assessing the extent of the damage at the site as IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi warned that hitting a nuclear power plant "must be avoided at all costs."

"This incident again underlines the extremely precarious nuclear safety situation in Ukraine, which will continue as long as this tragic war goes on. The fact that numerous windows at the site were destroyed shows just how close it was," Grossi said.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a law on Oct. 26 on financial monitoring of politically exposed persons, which is a vital step on the country's path toward EU membership.

The measure prolongs the monitoring period of government officials, who are, through their influential position, more susceptible to corruption, from three years to life.

The bill was approved by Verkhovna Rada, the Ukrainian parliament, on Oct. 17, with 276 lawmakers voting in favor.

The measure is intended to disincentivize politicians from using their positions to enrich themselves, as it extends the increased scrutiny on their finances past their time in office.

The measure will fulfill the requirements of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), lawmaker Yaroslav Zhelezniak said, adding that it should be considered a vital step in the upcoming negotiations on Ukraine's integration with the EU.

Several media reported that the European Commission is preparing to give a positive assessment of Ukraine's reform efforts in the coming weeks. The EU leaders are expected to make a formal decision on the start of the actual entry talks in December, Politico said.

Read also: Politico: EU to announce Ukraine membership talks in December

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has held a Military Cabinet meeting with commanders in various areas, where they heard reports from Valerii Zaluzhnyi , Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces; Defence Minister Rustem Umierov; Kyrylo Budanov , Chief of Defence Intelligence; and Vasyl Maliuk, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine.

Source: Zelenskyy on Telegram

Quote: "There was a special format meeting of the Military Cabinet.

All commanders on the ground were present [at the meeting  ed.]: Syrskyi, Tarnavskyi, Hnatov, Moskaliov and Sodol [Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander of Ukraine's Ground Forces and the Khortytsia group; Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, Commander of the Tavriia group; Andrii Hnatov, Commander of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group; Eduard Moskaliov, Commander of the Odesa Air Defence Forces; and Yurii Sodol, Marine Corps Commander  ed.]. They reported in detail on their areas, defensive and offensive actions, and special tasks. It was a frank conversation on the most important topics.

Heard reports by Zaluzhnyi, Umierov, Budanov and Maliuk [Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; Defence Minister Rustem Umierov; Defence Intelligence Head Kyrylo Budanov; Vasyl Maliuk, Head of the Security Service of Ukraine  ed.]. Agreed on an action plan with specific deadlines and calculations, backed by supplies from our partners and our own production. Building up the capabilities of our defence industry.

We have agreed on our positions. We are moving forward."

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Chinese VP meets California governor in Beijing

Xinhua) 10:00, October 26, 2023

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing on Wednesday.

Noting that China-U.S. relations are the most important bilateral relations in the world today, Han said that despite some ups and downs, cooperation has always been the mainstream, and the relations have recently begun to stabilize.

He called on the Chinese and U.S. governments, and people from all walks of life and localities, to step up communication, exchanges and cooperation to jointly promote the sound and steady development of China-U.S. relations.

The cooperation between Shanghai and California is a good example of sub-national exchanges between China and the United States, and has huge potential for future development, Han said, expressing the hope that Newsom's visit will inject positive energy into promoting bilateral exchanges and cooperation and improving China-U.S. relations.

For his part, Newsom said that China's development achievements, especially in the field of new energy, are impressive.

U.S.-China cooperation is not a zero-sum game, Newsom said, expressing his willingness to use this visit to further promote closer exchanges and cooperation between California and China in such fields as economy, trade, climate change and people-to-people exchanges, so as to bring more benefits to the two peoples.

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
(Photo : FETHI BELAID/AFP via Getty Images)

Protesters raise a doll depicting a baby as they chant slogans during an anti-Israel demonstration outside the French embassy headquarters along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba in the centre of Tunis on October 18, 2023. A blast ripped through a hospital in war-torn Gaza killing hundreds of people late on October 17, sparking global condemnation and angry protests around the Muslim world. Israel and Palestinians traded blame for the incident, which an "outraged and deeply saddened" US President Joe Biden denounced while en route to the Middle East.

The tensions between Israel and Hamas, a critical situation, is currently developing in Gaza.

Israel has ordered the evacuation of Al-Quds Hospital, leaving more than 400 injured patients and 12,000 displaced civilians, predominantly women and children, in a difficult situation, as per Sky News.

Israel's Three-Step Strategy to Fight Hamas in the Face of Worsening Gaza Crisis

This evacuation order comes as Israel announces a three-stage plan to combat Hamas and its recent attacks. The situation in Gaza is rapidly deteriorating, and the international community is expressing deep concern.

Al-Quds Hospital serves as a refuge and treatment center for Palestinians in Gaza and has been ordered to evacuate. This decision raises concerns about the safety of the more than 400 injured patients and the thousands of civilians seeking shelter within its walls.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Ghebreyesus, has expressed deep concern, emphasizing the impossibility of safely evacuating overcrowded hospitals quickly. He calls for protecting healthcare facilities as they carry out their life-saving functions.

Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, has unveiled a three-stage plan in response to the escalating conflict with Hamas. The first phase involves a military campaign with strikes and a subsequent maneuver to destroy Hamas operatives and infrastructure.

This phase is intended to defeat and dismantle the organization. Minister Gallant declared that Israel had no choice and was now in a state of war. In the second phase, operations will be conducted at a lower intensity to eliminate pockets of resistance.

The third and final phase envisions the removal of Israel's responsibility for Gaza and the establishing of a new security reality for its citizens. Minister Gallant has declared that October 7th marks the beginning of the destruction of Hamas, according to Mail Online.

Read Also: 'Superspreaders' of Israel-Hamas Propaganda on X Are Mostly With Blue Verified Badges: Research

Humanitarian Disaster and International Peace Efforts in the Gaza Conflict Crisis

The recent conflict was triggered by Hamas's unprecedented attack on October 7th, during which thousands of rockets were launched at Israeli towns, leading to the death of more than 1,400 civilians and the taking of around 200 hostages.

In response, Israel ordered a retaliatory bombing and a complete siege of the Gaza Strip, home to two million Palestinians, with an estimated half of the population being children.

The toll on Gaza's population has been devastating, with over 3,700 Palestinians killed, 13,400 injured, and approximately 1,000 believed to be trapped under the rubble. An additional one million people have been displaced, pushing the territory toward a significant humanitarian crisis.

Civilians in Gaza are cut off from essential supplies such as food, water, electricity, and medicine. The international community has expressed grave concerns about the situation in Gaza. The United States brokered a deal with Egypt to allow 20 aid trucks to enter Gaza through the Rafah passage.

However, the United Nations has stressed that greater support is urgently needed. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the need for core services and supplies, calling for assistance on a large scale and sustained support.

In an earlier statement, Mr. Guterres expressed the gravity of the situation, stating that "too many lives - and the fate of the entire region - hang in the balance."

The escalation of violence in the region not only poses an immediate threat to the lives of civilians but also has broader implications for regional stability and peace. As the situation in Gaza worsens, the international community faces the challenge of responding effectively to alleviate the suffering of civilians trapped during a devastating conflict.

The immediate priority must be the safety and well-being of the people affected and a concerted effort to bring about a ceasefire and lasting peace in the region, The Sun reported.

Related Article: Gaza Hospital Blast: US Intelligence Clears Israel's Involvement in Attack

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy , the President of Ukraine, has called on the leaders of the EU member states to support the start of negotiations with Ukraine on EU membership at the end of the year.

Source: European Pravda with reference to Zelenskyy's address

Details: The head of state emphasised that Ukraine has been fulfilling the recommendations of the European Union regarding future accession, mentioning the signing of the law on financial monitoring of politically exposed persons.

"Ukraine practically implemented the seven recommendations of the European Commission  both decisions that were easier and decisions that were [more] difficult for politicians. And we count on your unity in response  on the decision to start negotiations on Ukraine's accession to the European Union," he added.

As Zelenskyy said, this decision "in many respects will determine the entire future path of the European Union."

"Either our whole Europe win together with Ukraine, together with Moldova, and in the future - together with Georgia and Belarus, or... the past will prevail. I am sure that you are all on the side of modern Europe. We must win," concluded the president.

Background:

On Tuesday, 24 October, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the board of European Commissioners gathered in Brussels, assuring them that Ukraine has fulfilled all the recommendations of the European Commission and is ready to start negotiations on joining the European Union.

As the mass media report, the European Commission intends to present a positive assessment of Ukraine's progress in applying for EU membership on 8 November, but this assessment may contain additional conditions amid the upcoming decision to start accession talks with Kyiv.

As the press says, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, is likely to visit Ukraine in early November, which may indicate that the assessment of Ukraine's progress in the "candidate" reforms will be positive.

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BEDFORD  A Bedford County sheriffs deputy was honored Monday with an award and standing ovation for his actions during a July 2022 incident in which the county sheriffs office said a man pointed a handgun and attempted to shoot that officer.

Deputy Brandon McKee received the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolutions Public Service Award during the Bedford County Board of Supervisors meeting Monday. Major J.D. Wilks, of the Bedford County Sheriffs Office, said McKee was involved in a life-threatening incident on July 12 in the Blue Ridge area of the county.

Wilks said McKee responded to the scene of a domestic violence-related call without backup and encountered a victim who said her husband struck her in the face during an argument. While investigating, McKee noticed a man who appeared to be intoxicated walking toward him and after questioning him, attempted to make an arrest for domesticated assault, Wilks said.

The man, who Wilks did not identify, suddenly resisted, produced a handgun from his waistband and pointed it at McKees abdomen, attempting to shoot him, according to the major. The officer wrestled the man to the ground, ultimately gaining control and securing an arrest for domestic assault and aggravated attempted malicious wounding of a law enforcement officer, Wilks said.

Deputy McKee in this incident displayed extreme courage and professionalism, and due to his training and quick reaction, this incident ended without the loss of life which would have been justified, Wilks said. Deputy McKee is a true example of what it means to be a deputy sheriff and a testament to the meaning of the badge.

Wilks nominated McKee for the award for his dedication, bravery and selfless service going above and beyond to protect citizens of the county and commonwealth, the major said.

Sheriff Mike Miller awarded McKee the Meritorious Service Medal on Jan. 11 for his actions during the incident. Miller said McKee came to the Bedford sheriffs department from the Roanoke City Police Department and he also is an Army veteran.

He came to us with a lot [of] experience and a lot of wisdom, Miller said.

The sheriff said McKee is an example of the men and women in the office who regularly go above and beyond in the course of their duties.

Mark Day, president of the Virginia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, described McKee as a family man and father of three. Thank you very much for everything youve done for Bedford County, Day said while presenting McKee the award.

Also during the meeting, the board voted unanimously to grant tax-exempt status to SML Good Neighbors, Inc., a Moneta nonprofit that County Attorney Patrick J. Skelley II said provides free academic, enrichment and nutritional programs to rising first- through sixth-grade students and scholarships to high school seniors in Bedford and Franklin counties.

SML Good Neighbors mission is developing good neighbor skills and values in children through programs that nourish, educate and support them while providing life-changing experiences for college students through leadership development internships, according to Skelleys report. The loss of revenue from the measure is $1,637 annually, Skelley said.

I have been familiar with this group for many years in the lake area, Edgar Tuck, the boards chair, said. Theyre my neighbors and they have done great work. The way I read our guidance on this, there is more than $1,600 worth of value that they are providing to our community out there, which we greatly appreciate.

In other business, the board authorized staff to advertise bids for repairs to the Bedford County Administration Buildings atrium area. The countys budget includes $185,000 for the needed repairs.
BEDFORD  Three internet providers working with Bedford County to expand broadband service addressed the countys board of supervisors Monday on their progress with fiber builds both buried and above ground through utility poles.

The board expressed concern with the pace of work from Shentel, one of the three companies, and voiced those criticisms during a work session Monday. Several supervisors expressed doubt a September 2024 deadline for that companys buildout can be met with permitting issues and other factors.

Verizon has 100% of engineering completed and is 30% into construction of fiber placement and splicing of about 52 miles combined in the Bedford and Big Island areas, according to a presentation from Jamie Boadman, of Verizon.

There is a tremendous amount of work that goes into building out our network, Boadman said. We have just over 50 miles for fiber.

She said the network is a mix of aerial and underground fiber and the company expects to complete the build and have service available by February 2024. The scope includes roughly 350 unserved or underserved addresses at a cost of $2.4 million with $72,000 of that covered through a grant subsidy, according to a presentation on the progress.

Boadman said Verizon will get more information out to the public in coming months about how to connect to the service and its prices. She said the company has existing infrastructure and isnt experiencing any permitting issues.

Youre doing a good job, and we appreciate it, board chair Edgar Tuck said to Verizon representatives at the work session. We noticed it.

Rodney Gray, chief operating officer of ZiTel, a local company also working on fiber broadband expansion in the county, said a network of about 480 miles that passes 11,675 homes is progressing. The majority of that network is in the ground, Gray said.

ZiTel doesnt build much aerial fiber and doesnt undergo many sleepless nights other providers have in trying to maintain it when issues arrive. The estimated completion for the work is the end of February, according to Grays presentation.

Supervisor Bob Davis complimented ZiTels work in getting ahead on the project and said he heard concerns they were too small of a company to handle such a scope of the project, which it has shown it can meet.

They are proactive  they got out in front of things, Davis said. I really want to applaud them  Im proud that I was a supporter of ZiTel from the very beginning in this project.

Bryan Byrd, government and community affairs specialist for Shentel, said he is not aware of any other county in the state, except for perhaps Fairfax, that has as many providers working on broadband expansion at the same time.

Thats a remarkable thing, Byrd said.

Byrd said the company has about 35 miles serving 415 households currently greenlit, and construction is planned for up to 71 additional miles and 615 households over the next four months, subject to remaining permits, as far as its work through the Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) that gives a grant subsidy for much of it.

Shentel continues to invest in upgrades that allow customers in the county to have faster speeds at cheaper costs, Byrd said.

The companys overall VATI deployment plan will provide broadband to just more than 4,730 underserved county homes with a model that has 344 miles of aerial coverage through existing utility poles and 86 miles of buried fiber, according to the report. Aerial deployment plans are typically back-end loaded for construction to account for the required engineering and pole permitting process and a 2-year contract includes a September 2024 end date.

Shentel has permits submitted for 232 miles and the cost to bury fiber is nearly double than going above ground. Dan Meenan, vice president of operations, said the good news is material construction is finally starting in the county and outlined why permitting is taking longer, explaining issues that include power company supply chain delays, labor shortages and other factors.

Finding engineering talent who knows how to work on these pole lines is tough to find, Meenan said.

Shentels $29.1 million project includes $4.3 million from the county, $9.1 million from the VATI contribution and $15.6 million from Shentel, according to the report. The company is solely responsible for any cost overruns beyond that $29.1 million, Meenan said.

The company is not where it hoped it would be in this point in the project, he told supervisors.

Supervisor John Sharp said ZiTel has all of its permitting in place and questioned if the county was a priority with so much other work going on in the state.

Its like they ran circles around you, Sharp told Meenan.

Meenan said he wishes the company could have more flexibility to bury fiber, but it hasnt treated the county any differently from others and it is committed to seeing the project through.

The costs to bury, particularly in the sections of the county that were building, would be astronomical, Meenan said.

Tuck asked if a large number of permitting could be done in the next 11 months.

I understand there are some areas that are more difficult but there is some low-hanging fruit in this county too, Tuck told Meenan of building out the network.

Supervisor Mickey Johnson said the only other profession he is aware of being so off in forecasts is a weatherman. He and other supervisors were critical of the companys performance so far, noting the other two providers are facing similar challenges.

Were in a corner here and its a tough spot for us to be sitting here, especially when weve got two other companies who are moving along with good pace, Davis told Shentel representatives.

In addressing supervisors criticisms, Meenan said his team wakes up and goes to sleep worrying about Bedford County and working to progress the project.

Were in a bad spot right now, Meenan said. A lot of it we cant control because of the way the model is placed. Were willing to consider everything that can move this project forward.

I appreciate that statement, Sharp said.

Once poles are permitted, aerial is the faster way to construct the network and the company will find creative ways to expedite the deployment of broadband, Meenan said.

Weve got to know how to go from here to a finish line, Tuck said.

Byrd said a lot of work has gone on behind the scenes and the board and county staff has been pretty tireless on broadband expansion in the past several years.

At the end of this I think Bedford is going to have a pretty compelling case for one of the most connected and most competitive broadband counties in the state, he said.
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A cup of coffee from your own four walls  how do you grow it?

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Atiku Abubakar. Photo: Twitter/PDP By Oluyemi Ogunseyin The Supreme Court has dismissed the application of the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to introduce new evidence against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Justice John Okoro of the Supreme Court dismissed the application on Thursday while delivering judgment in the appeal filed by Atiku and the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, challenging the Court of Appeal verdict, which affirmed the victory of Tinubu in the February 25 election. At the last proceeding on Monday, the apex court had reserved judgment, saying that a date would be communicated to the parties. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court spokesperson, Dr. Festus Akande, confirmed that the final judgment on the two appeals had been fixed for today. Besides the faulting verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPT), which affirmed Tinubus election, Atiku also filed for permission to tender a copy of the Presidents academic records released by the Chicago State University (CSU). Atiku said the records showed that Tinubu submitted a forged certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The former vice president also sought to have a Washington D.C. court order the FBI to release documents on Tinubus $460.000 forfeiture case. Justice Okoro on Thursday, however, dismissed Atikus application to introduce new evidence against Tinubu. Justice Okoro said the appellants did not apply for an extension of time or apply to amend their appeal and introduce the issue of forgery and even if they did, it would not have been granted. He also said that the deposition of CSU has no place in deciding the issues in the petition. Since the lower court (tribunal) no longer has jurisdiction, this supreme court does not have jurisdiction to entertain the application, Okoro said. It cannot be elongated or stretched beyond the required time, and cannot be extended, and the applicants did not ask for an extension of time, to amend their application. The lower court which is bound by the provision of section 285 Sub 6 of the state constitution when seeking to hear election petitions has lost its jurisdiction, so we cannot look into it. GUARDIAN

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Every second grader and sixth grader in Council Bluffs will get to meet an author next year and take home a copy of their book.

The Council Bluffs Public Library Foundation is planning visits for as-yet-unannounced authors following a gift from the Iowa West Foundation to underwrite transportation and other logistical costs.

The two author visits will bring together students from across the city: the Council Bluffs and Lewis Central public schools as well as St. Albert Catholic Schools, Heartland Christian School and Iowa School for the Deaf.

"We will be announcing that probably at the beginning of the new year, because they will be coming in April," said Antonia Krupicka-Smith, director of the Council Bluffs Public Library.

Officials from the schools, city, library and Iowa West Foundation came together Tuesday for a ceremonial check presentation by the youth nonfiction section of the library. A group of Bloomer Elementary School and Kirn Middle School students also participated.

Philanthropist John Nelson, who helped found the Iowa West Foundation in 1994, discussed the history of the foundation's support for the Council Bluffs Public Library. After two failed bond attempts, Iowa West stepped in to salvage plans for a new library and helped get the project to completion.

The library recently celebrated its 25 anniversary at 400 Willow Ave. Brenda Mainwaring, president and CEO of the Iowa West Foundation, said the foundation wanted to celebrate the "very first major gift that Iowa West Foundation made"  what essentially marks its 25 anniversary, too.

"It was really that gift that helped the Iowa West Foundation board understand just what was possible in Council Bluffs," Mainwaring said. "This amazing building set a pretty high bar."

So the foundation decided to make a special gift of $59,582  donating $1 for every card holder at the Council Bluffs Public Library.

"If you have a card at the Council Bluffs Public Library, one of those dollars is yours," Mainwaring said.

Krupicka-Smith said the library had a wonderful experience last year bringing authors to visit the students of Council Bluffs, so the library decided to use the Iowa West gift to cover the costs of the logistics of continuing the author visits.

"Every second grader and every sixth grader in the city of Council Bluffs has the ability to see a live author and get that experience as they're going through their schooling," Krupicka-Smith said.

Library staff worked with the schools on selecting the authors, she said.

Last year, second-graders were able to take home a copy of the book from an author visit through a partnership with Raise Me to Read, Krupicka-Smith said. This year, the free books will be expanded to include sixth graders.
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and with it the holiday spending spree that many people also extend to charitable causes through Giving Tuesday campaigns.

SHARE Iowa announced it is accepting early giving for this year's Giving Tuesday, which is Nov. 28. Go to sharegoodiowa.org and enter the donation code "GIVINGTUESDAY" at checkout to indicate early participation in the biggest local giving day of the year.

Last year saw more than $4.2 million donated in the region through Giving Tuesday 712, according to the Community Foundation for Western Iowa. Of that giving, 229 donations went to the foundation's endowment funds, supporting 25 different organizations.

"There's just no life in our community that's not touched by the benefit of some form of nonprofit," Donna Dostal, president of the Community Foundation for Western Iowa, said in interview clips distributed to news media.

SHARE Iowa is an initiative of the Community Foundation for Western Iowa that provides a one-stop online platform to support nonprofits in nine counties throughout western Iowa.

"It's a free resource that the Community Foundation for Western Iowa brings to our nonprofits," Dostal said. "Through that resource, they can find hundreds of nonprofits, hundreds of causes, and come together then on Giving Tuesday and add their support add their voice to the solutions that are really helping make their their community strong."

The Community Foundation for Western Iowa will earmark $250,000 for a 20% match on charitable gifts to endowment funds within the foundation. The 20% match is on gifts up to $100,000 per fund, according to a news release.

The Community Foundation for Western Iowa also will provide an array of $1,000 hourly prizes for SHARE Iowa nonprofit organizations that participate in Giving Tuesday. Katelman Steel Fabrication Inc. will sponsor activities and excitement during Giving Tuesday 712.

Giving Tuesday is "far and away the most significant and most well recognized time of year for folks to give back in their communities," Dostal said.
Representatives from Southwest Iowa Planning Council, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and Iowa Economic Development Authority joined with developers and city officials in Woodbine and Glenwood to celebrate progress on disaster recovery housing projects on Aug. 22.

These projects are the fruit of Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funding from the 2019 floods in Southwest Iowa, according to a news release.

The group first met in Woodbine to get a look at a 40 new home project nearing completion by NuStyle Development Corporation. These new homes and supporting infrastructure allow displaced flood victims an opportunity to return to an area they prefer to live at an affordable price. It will also benefit low to moderate income families that want to put down roots in the community. Non-flood impacted households can also apply.

The initial funding was available for communities and counties to apply for to support building new homes, rehabbing homes, and rebuilding vital infrastructure. The cities of Woodbine and Glenwood applied and then took bids for projects from developers. They then selected developer projects that they felt best represented the communities needs and got to work after project approval. Malvern, Tabor, Logan, and Hamburg also have active projects.

After their morning visit to Woodbine, representatives from SWIPCO, HUD, and IEDA traveled to view some projects in Glenwood with city officials and representatives of developer Mark Hughes Construction. Glenwood has multiple projects underway including 40 new homes in the Arbor Hills Development with Mark Hughes Construction and the Burr Oak Apartment Complex being developed by Travis Overhue.

SWIPCO Disaster Recovery Coordinator Ashley Hayes said It is so rewarding to see these projects making progress to give individuals that were displaced by the flood a chance to move back to a small town. Many individuals that have applied have told us they had no choice but to move somewhere they didnt really want to and they are so happy to return to the area they love.

Hayes said it takes community support to make these projects happen, Its also so great to see the pride these communities have and their future vision for growth.

Over half of the homes in Woodbine have qualified families in the process of purchase. Developers receive a $100,000 reimbursement to build the homes valued at around $275,000 so they can be sold at a more affordable $175,000 price tag. Hayes said some individuals have also worked with USDA to secure loans, which has been very helpful. Many of the spots in Glenwood also have buyers ready, as do some other smaller projects in Tabor.

If you or anyone you know has an interest in new homes being built in Woodbine, Logan, Glenwood, Malvern, Tabor, or Hamburg. Or if you are interested in new rental opportunities in Glenwood visit www.swipco.org and follow the link on the home page for more information. If you have additional questions call 712-243-4196. SWIPCO is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
Western Iowa Networks donated $100,000 to East Mills Child Care Solutions to assist with fundraising efforts for establishing The Lakin Foundation Child Development Center of East Mills in Malvern.

Additional funds were also provided by WINs telecommunications partner Aureon through Ripple Effect, an economic development match-funding program. These contributions will be used to help pay for design and construction management fees needed for the new state-of-the-art childcare center, according to a news release.

"Western Iowa Networks, Aureon and Ripple Effect are fantastic community partners," EMCCS President Meagan Schnoor said. "They are innovators and they know that a strong workforce requires reliable, consistent child care. They are experts in investing in rural Iowa, now starting with our youngest community members. We look forward to continuing this relationship."

East Mills Child Care Solutions was formed in 2022 by parents and community leaders from businesses, education and nonprofits actively working to solve the inadequate childcare options in the East Mills Community School District. To address this issue, EMCCS leaders embarked on a $5 million capital fundraising campaign to purchase, renovate and furnish what was once a local nursing home into The Lakin Foundation Child Development Center.

The center will be located at 905 N. Second Ave. in Malvern near a new housing development on a Safe Routes to School walking route, and it will serve up to 150 children (ages 6 weeks to 12 years) from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. With the help of local partners such as WIN, EMCCS will be able to accomplish their mission of finding reliable childcare by building the facility, allowing for the future growth of East Mills communities.

East Mills Child Care Solutions is addressing a critical need for childcare in our local area and is extremely appreciative of the generous support of our project by Western Iowa Networks, Aureon and Ripple Effect," EMCCS Vice President Kate McGann said. "Their investment in local broadband infrastructure has already made our communities a better place to live, work and play, and their partnership in this project will have a lasting impact on children and families.
Israel's Gaza invasion has been delayed, thanks to the US government's request. Since the Israeli government revealed its intention to invade Gaza, the United States has been persuading it to avoid it.

Now, Israeli and US officials have confirmed that the two nations agreed to avoid the ground invasion against Gaza temporarily. The question is, how long will this delay last?

Israel's Gaza Invasion Delayed as Requested by US

According to Reuters' latest report, Washington persuaded the Israeli government to halt its invasion plan in Gaza. US officials said that the Middle Eastern country should wait until it can enhance and complete its air defense systems in the Gaza Strip.

Forbes reported that the US government is expected to work on its regional air defenses until the remaining week of October. This means that the invasion could be delayed until November.

As of writing, the Pentagon is working around the clock to complete installing around a dozen of its air defense systems in the Middle East to ensure the safety of American troops currently stationed in Jordan, Kuwait, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and UAE.

Washington explained that they need to complete the air defense systems since militant groups will likely target US soldiers in the mentioned countries once Israel invades the Gaza Strip.

Aside from ensuring the safety of American troops, the US government also urged the Gaza invasion delay since it is negotiating with Qatar, a Palestinian militant broker, so that they could free more hostages.

Read Also: UN Chief Condemns 'Clear Violations' of International Law in Gaza, Renews Calls for Ceasefire

Gaza Invasion is Inevitable

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the Hamas terrorist group is "doomed" as they prepare for the feared Gaza ground invasion. During a televised statement on Wednesday, Oct. 25, Netanyahu announced that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is preparing to invade the region.

He added that the main goal of the Israeli military is to destroy the governmental and military capabilities of the Palestinian militant organization.

Netanyahu further stated that Israel's war cabinet is working around the clock and will not stop until they reach victory. However, he didn't explain how the Israeli government will ensure their troops' safety. He only confirmed that the Israeli war cabinet will unanimously determine the timing of the ground invasion in Gaza.

Related Article: Hamas Terrorist Boasts of Killing 10 Jews in Phone Call to Parents, Israeli Officials Reveal Audio

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Diplomatic relations between India and Africa have expanded rapidly since the early 2000s but, with India aspiring to become the 21st centurys next superpower, the relationship between both sides will be driven by business links, trade and the joint efforts to reshape the international institutions.

At the recent G20 summit in New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi began proceedings with an announcement that reveals the importance that his government is placing on relationships with Africa. Declaring Indias G20 presidency a symbol of inclusion, Modi proclaimed that with this sentiment of inclusiveness, [India] proposes that the African Union should be given permanent membership in the G20. Shortly after the announcement, Modi argued, in a statement on X, former Twitter, that the inclusion of the African Union (AU) in the G20 underscores its pivotal role in global progress. AU Chairperson and Comoros President Azali Assoumani has praised India as a superpower, stating that it is ahead of China now and expressing optimism for future ties.

India and Africa have enjoyed warm political relationships since the former gaining independence in 1947, but there are now increasing signs that New Delhi is now seeking to leverage these relations more proactively in order to advance a broad range of economic and geopolitical interests that are central to Modis mission to make India one of this centurys superpowers. To that end, since the first India-Africa Forum Summit in 2008, efforts at building diplomatic profile and interactions have become increasingly high-level over the last 15 years. Since the symbolically important high-level India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015, Modi has been increasingly vocal about the importance of Africa to Indias foreign policy. India is the fifth superpower in the world, so there is enough room for India in Africa, Assoumani said at the recent G20 summit in New Delhi.
Japan will provide Benin with rolling stock worth $2.7 million to contribute to the fight against terrorism in the north of the West African country.

The assistance was the subject of an agreement signed by Ichijo Motonbu, the interim Charge dAffaires at the Japanese embassy in Benin, and Romuald Wadagni, Benins Finance and Economy Minister in capital Cotonou.

The funds are non-refundable. The two sides did not spell out the rolling stocks. Benin suffered its first terror attack in 2019 after two French citizens were kidnapped from Benins Pendjari National Park and their local guide murdered.

Several attacks ensued. The State blamed armed men and terrorists from neighboring Burkina Faso for the attacks. Authorities until September this year claimed 40 civilians and 20 soldiers have been killed over the past three years.
The African Union, AU, Thursday doubled down on its call for a swift return to constitutional order in Gabon and Niger following the recent military coups in the two countries.

The fresh call came from the AU Peace and Security Council following its latest meeting on the situation in the two countries.

A junta deposed on July 26 Nigers elected leader Mohamed Bazoum. It has since held power and appointed a Prime Minister and alluded to a three-year transition.

In Gabon, another junta deposed on August 30 President Ali Bongo Ondimba following August 26 presidential polls. The coup came after the countrys independent election body announced Ali Bongo winner of the elections. The junta branded the polls rigged.

The junta leader General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema was inaugurated on September 04 as The Transitional President but there has been no clear timeline for the transition.

The AU Peace & Security council reaffirmed zero-tolerance for unconstitutional change of government and renewed its call for a swift return to constitutional order in both States, the AU Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department said in an update via social media.

On Niger, the council reiterated its demand for an immediate and unconditional release of President Bazoum and all other detainees and respect for their human rights, including the protection of their physical health and moral integrity.

Bazoum and his family have been under house arrest at the presidency of the West African country. The junta last week indicated that it foiled an escape attempt by Bazoum.

The Addis Ababa-based organization has suspended both countries after the coups.
Congresswoman Kathy Manning, protesting state legislative interference in presidential elections, has now likely lost her seat to a partisan gerrymander. Photo: Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for Common Cause

The ejection of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Republicans excruciating 22-day struggle to elect a new Speaker were rooted in the narrow margin of control Republicans won in 2022. Since any five House Republicans have the power to defy and even defenestrate their leadership, the temptation to do just that is powerful; it wont necessarily go away now that the exhausted House GOP conference has settled on Mike Johnson.

The obvious way out of this hellish trap is for Republicans to increase their majority in next years elections. North Carolina Republican legislators are doing their part: Following an extended political and legal fight, they have secured a reredistricting measure that could provide their party with a net gain of three to four seats, as Politico explains:

North Carolinas new map, which was approved Wednesday by the state legislature, is particularly efficient at securing a GOP advantage in a state thats closely divided for many statewide races  setting off a scramble among Republicans for the opportunity to run in the newly safe seats.

The map packs as many Democratic voters as possible into three blue districts, while distributing Republicans across the remaining districts to make sure they remain largely out of reach for Democrats. The maps were drawn so Republicans would hold a strong majority of the states seats even in particularly bad years for the GOP.

The new map will remake the states delegation from an even split of seven Democrats and seven Republicans to one that would likely lock in 10 Republicans and three Democrats, with one competitive battleground seat that Democratic Rep. Don Davis currently holds.

Freshman Democratic representatives Wiley Nickel and Jeff Jackson and second-term Democratic representative Kathy Manning will all now live in heavily Republican districts.

The reredistricting was made possible last year when Republicans flipped control of the North Carolina Supreme Court, which had approved the existing 7-7 map after striking down a prior Republican gerrymander as violating the state constitution. Under that constitution, Democratic Governor Roy Cooper plays no role in the redistricting process. So barring a successful court challenge, the new gerrymandered map (along with a Republican-leaning state legislative map) will go into effect for the 2024 elections, which will also determine the term-limited Coopers successor.

The U.S. Supreme Court has made it clear it will not police partisan gerrymanders in the states. Opponents of the North Carolina gerrymander will have to make the complex case that the GOP operation violated the Voting Rights Act by denying Black voters the right to choose or influence their representation in Congress. Not coincidentally, Republicans left Democratic majorities in two of the districts represented by Black congressmen alone and made the third just slightly more competitive. A Voting Rights Act challenge to the Tar Heel States gerrymander is likely a very long shot.

A Voting Rights Act challenge to Alabamas Republican-dictated congressional map did succeed earlier this year; in a bit of a surprise, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a lower court order requiring that the legislature create an additional majority-Black (and also safely Democratic) U.S. House district. The Supreme Court decision has spurred additional litigation in Georgia  where a federal district court judge has just ordered a reredistricting  and in Louisiana that could also lead to Democratic gains in those two Republican-controlled states. Add in the complex partisan battle going on in New York over the Empire States congressional map for 2024, which could be redrawn to benefit Democrats, and it becomes clear that North Carolina Republicans are doing more than their share to shore up their partys odds of hanging onto or enhancing their majority in the House. Speaker Mike Johnson is counting on them.
A week ago, Republican Colorado representative Ken Buck drew a line in the sand against giving the House Speakership to Jim Jordan. I think its really important that the Republican Party state unequivocally that President Trump lost the 2020 election, he said.

If we dont have the moral clarity to decide whether President Biden won or not, we dont have the moral clarity to rule in this country, period.

Period became an ellipsis. A week later, Buck assented to making Mike Johnson Speaker. Johnson played an even more central role in aiding Trumps attempt to secure an unelected second term than Jordan did  endorsing ludicrous theories about the ghost of Hugo Chavez planting vote-stealing software in the vote-counting machines and pressuring Republicans to sign onto Trumps lawsuit to reverse the election.

Buck told reporters, Jim Jordan was involved in all of the  not all of it, but most of the post-election activity. Mike Johnson was not, which is absolutely false. He then rationalized his support by saying, I think it  it being Johnsons central role in trying to end democracy in the United States  is a mistake, but I think people make mistakes and still can be really good Speakers. And where Buck had previously insisted that Jordan acknowledge Trump lost the 2020 election, he said of Johnson only, I have not gotten that promise from Mike. I hope he comes around to that point.

Most revealingly, when confronted with Johnsons authoritarian record, Buck explained that it was just time to move on. Yes he did, and most of the conference voted to decertify, and I think its very important that we get a Speaker and that we move forward.

Bucks inspiring stance for democracy protest was like a Nelson Mandela hunger strike, except if by the first day Mandela was feeling peckish, he decided he had made his point by skipping breakfast and had some brunch.

Moderate Republicans, as the media has absurdly taken to labeling conservative Republicans who have qualms about seizing power through non-electoral means, have shown through the last few weeks precisely how serious they are about their principles. They are willing to fight for them, for a short period of time, before arriving at the same position as their right-wing coalition partners.

The main source of division within the Republican Party was that a handful of far-right Republicans were willing to withhold support for the majority of the caucuss Speaker choice in order to force the rest of their party to accept their terms. The partys institutionalists objected to this tactic because it gave the minority disproportionate power.

The two factions went several rounds vetoing each others candidates because they couldnt agree which set of rules to use to choose a Speaker  if the principle was that a candidate who had majority support within the caucus must then be approved by the entire party, the institutionalists demanded, then why couldnt they have Kevin McCarthy, the GOPs most popular pick?

The far right refused to accept the principle that they would go along with the majority of the party and insisted on retaining a veto. And so the deadlock went on, for days.

But the deadlock was broken the way it usually is: by the least extreme Republicans capitulating to the most extreme ones.

The institutionalists have tried to paint their opposition to Jordan as proof they cant be bullied. Jordan infuriated the institutionalists by inspiring a series of wild violent threats against them (a tactic that is ordinarily reserved for use against Democrats). Their prediction, writes National Review of the Jordan supporters, was that these members would fold to public pressure once their opposition became public. That strategy ended up backfiring spectacularly.

But the strategy only failed in the narrow sense of elevating Jordans personal ambitions. The larger ideological goal of giving the most right-wing Republicans a veto over their leadership was an unambiguous success.

New Speaker Mike Johnson is a hero of the far right  not only for his leadership role in pushing Trumps coup attempt, but also in his comprehensive commitment to right-wing policy across the board. He has endorsed the Paul Ryan style and spending rollbacks, expressed militant hostility to gay marriage and abortion, and voted against aid to Ukraine.

Representative Matt Gaetz, the ringleader of the rebels, was exultant in triumph. I believe history will assess these three weeks as the most productive weeks of the 118th Congress, Gaetz gloated, because now we have both a man and a plan.

A contest between a faction that is willing to bear any burden to gain leverage and another faction that is primarily concerned with holding together the party can only end one way. The three-week protest by the institutionalist Republicans may be remembered only because it is their idea of an exhausting twilight struggle.
Photo-Illustration: Intelligencer; Photo: Eyal Warshavsky/SOPA Images/Shutterstock

Ehud Baraks life has traced the arc of Israels existence. Born in 1942 on a kibbutz in what was then Mandatory Palestine, Barak became one of the countrys most decorated soldiers. He served in reconnaissance during the Six-Day War, led a tank battalion in the Yom Kippur War, and was a special-forces commando who headed several high-profile operations, including a deadly raid on the Palestinian Liberation Organization after a faction of the group kidnapped and murdered 11 Israeli athletes at the 1972 Munich Olympics. He was chief of the general staff, the Israeli Defense Forces top post, from 1991 to 1995, before parlaying his military accomplishments into a political career.

Barak became the leader of the Labor Party in 1997, in the aftermath of Yitzhak Rabins assassination, and was elected the 11th prime minister of Israel in 1999, defeating the Likud Partys Benjamin Netanyahu. During his tenure, he withdrew troops from southern Lebanon and presided over failed peace talks with Yasser Arafat at Camp David, which led to the Second Intifada, before losing office to Ariel Sharon in 2001. He later served as minister of defense under Ehud Olmert and then again under Netanyahu in the Likud leaders second term.

Barak has since become a prominent critic of Netanyahu, whom he has accused of acting like a dictator and helping create the conditions for Hamass attack on October 7. But his disdain for Israels right wing hardly makes him a pacifist. In the aftermath of Hamass massacre, Barak supports a full-bore invasion of Gaza. And he defends Israels bombing campaign of the territory, which has already killed thousands, as well as its siege tactics in Gaza, which have drawn strong international criticism as residents face increasingly dire conditions. I spoke to Barak about what he thinks a coming invasion will look like, when he expects a reckoning for Israels government, and whether he still has any hope for peace.

President Biden has reportedly urged Israel to postpone its ground invasion of Gaza to allow more time for hostage negotiations, to better prepare itself militarily, and to allow more aid to get to Palestinian civilians. According to reports this week, Israel is taking that advice, and it seems the invasion had already been put off a couple of times before this latest delay. Do you think theres a chance that it never happens at all?

I dont believe so, bearing in mind the atrocities  the barbaric attacks, the slaughtering of many hundreds or thousands of civilians  elderly people, babies and their parents. These atrocities are the most severe blow that Israel has suffered since its establishment, and Jews associated it with something from the Nazi period. Nothing like this has ever happened. It has shaken Israel to its very foundation  the raison detre of this state that was established in order to make sure that certain people, Jews, can live safely. Safely doesnt mean that you wont have to fight with your enemies, but it means that a pregnant woman wont be cut open and her fetus is thrown out and shes burned. Thats crazy. We cannot afford it. No one on earth can afford that to happen. So we have to destroy the military capabilities of Hamas and make sure that it cannot raise its head once again over our borders. That, unfortunately, cannot be completed by an air campaign.

You believe thats impossible?

Impossible, because you have to get rid of the rockets and the weapons and the depots and the training sites and even the very political control of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. So there is no way to execute it without deploying tens of thousands of pairs of boots on the ground. It might not be very short, like the Six-Day War. It wont take three weeks like the 73 war or even two months like the last long operation in Gaza. But we can do it, and we have to do it.

Of course, we highly respect President Bidens request. His remarks are taken very seriously, and he and his team have backed Israel, suppressed Hezbollahs intentions, probably sent a signal to Iran, and blocked a long-range drone from Yemen. We were deeply moved by his speech and his behavior when he visited Israel and even before. Its highly appreciated and very seriously taken into account, but it cannot deter or block Israel from launching ground-force operations, more or less in the near future, to destroy Hamas.

You have a very long and distinguished military record, and you led one ground invasion against Hamas in 2008 when you were secretary of defense. Obviously, this is a different sort of scenario and one thats about as challenging as a military operation gets. Is it realistic that Israel could actually destroy Hamas with this kind of operation? Is there a precedent where something like it actually worked? Mosul?

Yeah, the United States and the U.K. deployed forces half a world away in order to destroy Daesh, or ISIS, as you call it. Im confident that we can do it technically, militaristically. It doesnt mean that it will be easy or it wont cost us probably a lot of loss of life of soldiers. But compared to the massacre that already happened with those helpless civilians, it will be smaller, probably much smaller.

Smaller on the Israeli side.

Smaller than the death toll of the last event, which might end up being 1,700 or 1,800 rather than 1,400. So technically, it is possible. But its a very delicate operation and there are several constraints.

Constraint No. 1 is the hostages. A second one is a risk of spreading it into a much wider clash with Hezbollah, or some dormant cells of terrorists in the West Bank, or even some Shiite militias backed by Iran that are operating in western Iraq or on the Syrian side of the Golan Heights. Even if all of them join the war, I dont believe it becomes an existential threat to Israel. Were strong enough to deal with all of it, but that will stretch it over a longer time and more toil and sweat and tears and blood before its over.

We will win it but at a very heavy price. We dont have any interest in this spreading. I would not recommend it to Hezbollah  they will pay a high price. Lebanon will pay a high price. But its beyond our control. It could be they might be prodded by the Iranians to do it or they might want it themselves. They might not even be interested, but the kinds of exchanges that have happened in the last few days could deteriorate very fast into a full clash with Hezbollah. So thats the second constraint.

The third one is international law. We are committed to international law, and we are doing our best to limit, to minimize, collateral damage, namely people killed  innocent people, civilians in Gaza. But its not easy to do it because we already asked 1.1 million people to move to the southern part of the strip. Probably 700,000 did it, 300,000 didnt, and, basically, theyre coerced by Hamas to become human shields for them. And once again, we cannot afford impunity for Hamas just because they can coerce their own people. So at a certain point  were trying to avoid it, were trying to minimize it  but there cannot be full impunity for Hamas.

And then assuming that in three months or five months  doesnt matter  we complete our decimation of Hamass military capability in Gaza, we still have the question, To whom do we pass the torch there? We do not intend to stay there for the next ten or 15 years. That doesnt make sense. So we have to find a way to pass it to someone else.

So all four of these constraints are intertwined, interconnected, and they develop dynamically in real time. Only the cabinet and the top command of our soldiers and the top echelons of American decision-making  only those who follow daily the developments and nuances of the situation  can decide how it will develop. Any attempt to define a trajectory, where it goes from A to B to C to D, will fail or will become irrelevant by realities.

I want to follow up on the last two points you mentioned. One, international law. The fact that Israel has cut off water and electricity and fuel to Gaza has sparked a lot of outrage, both in the Arab world and elsewhere. I was watching a CNN interview you did where you said these shutoffs werent the utmost important element of Israels military strategy. Why is the government taking steps that it knows will inflame people if its not even essential to its plans?

No, its part of the steps  its part of the pressure that has to be felt by Hamas. It wont be a problem in southern Gaza because we allow convoys to enter. Israel would not, under any circumstance, block movement of equipment for hospitals or milk for Palestinian babies. But there is a need to keep up the pressure, especially once the civilian population has evacuated from the northern part of Gaza. Altogether, there are probably 30,000 or 35,000 Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters. Some of them, including probably the leadership, might be hiding in the southern part in order to be immune temporarily as we deal with Gaza City and the north.

For [dealing with] them, it would be justified to close everything  we would not hesitate. But the problem is that they coerce tens of thousands of locals to stay with them and to protect themselves. So well have to consider that along the way. Its not true that as of now there is a major humanitarian crisis there.

A lot of people disagree with you. And I certainly hear from American Jews that what Israel is doing is unnecessary.

This is not the cornerstone of our operation, but it naturally includes many things. Some of them are short or perfect or not 100 percent effective, but they are still parts of the menu that together create the cumulative pressure that should be exacted upon the Hamas in order to reduce their effectiveness in fighting when the actual invasion takes place.

On the point about what comes after in Gaza, I recently spoke with Michael Milshtein, a former Israeli intelligence officer. He theorized that Prime Minister Netanyahu actually didnt want to destroy Hamas entirely  that this was just rhetoric and that the government is worried about the vacuum that would be created if Hamas was eliminated. He thought Israel would want to degrade Hamas but keep them in charge of the Gaza Strip. Do you think theres any truth to that?

Ill first tell you a kind of anecdote. Fifteen years ago, I was the minister of defense in the Olmert government. Every two years, we had a round of clashes with Hamas that usually ended with certain understandings, we called them, mediated by Egypt, that kept things quiet for the next 18 months or so. Even then, there was the question of Why not crush them totally?  which would have been easier then than it is now. The same question even then was to whom we would pass the torch. I tried to approach [the late president of Egypt] Hosni Mubarak with this issue. I said, When the next round comes, well crush them fully, and youll demand from day one that we resolve things without conditions.

After six weeks, we will agree to resolve things but with one condition: That someone will take the responsibility for keeping Gaza quiet from us. You can arrange for a multinational Arab force backed by the Arab League or by the U.N. Security Council  some Egyptians, some Moroccans, some Jordanians, some Emiratis, some Omanis, whatever  and take the Gaza Strip from us for a limited time  three months, probably six months, during which time you will gradually bring back the original internationally recognized owner of the place, which is the Palestinian Authority. Your readers probably cannot remember, but originally, after the Oslo agreement, Gaza was given to the Palestinian Authority. But Hamas took it through a violent coup.

Yeah, in 2007.

Mubarak told me, No, no, Barak. You conquered it in 67, and now its yours. I would never put my hands back into this strip. So I went to Abu Mazen. [Ed.s note: An alternate name for Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.] To cut a long story short, he basically told me he could not afford to come back to power in the Gaza Strip sitting on Israeli violence. I did not like the answer, but I couldnt but admit there is a certain logic to it. But that was the situation 15 years ago. Its probably possible now with Qatari and Saudi money to back a big plan to develop Gaza afterward and with the Arab League backing the Palestinian Authority. The U.N. would probably back this, too. I do not exclude it as a possibility. That might be the solution.

It seems unrealistic to me because these Arab states seem to care less about the Palestinians than they did then. The issue was on the back burner, which is one reason a U.S.-Saudi deal was gaining traction.

We cannot know, but Im not sure its impossible.

I can tell you that some Israeli journalists said three weeks ago, before the attack, that it is an irony of history that just as the time became right to normalize relations even with Saudi Arabia, we dont have a normal government in Israel. If you had to summarize Netanyahus policies over the last five years in one sentence  Ill quote one of the ministers in his government: Everyone sees that Hamas is an asset, and that the Palestinian Authority is a liability. Netanyahu worked systematically in the last five years to strengthen Hamas, to keep it alive and kicking, under certain limitations. There were even payments  I called it protection money  through the Qataris in order to keep it strong and active. And at the same time, he worked to weaken the Palestinian Authority. Common sense says that it should be the opposite  you strengthen the Palestinian Authority and weaken Hamas until theyre gone there. What is the logic behind this?

Netanyahu doesnt want a two-state solution.

He doesnt want two states. Its ideology. He doesnt want the Americans, or the Europeans, or the U.N. to come to Israel and ask, Why the hell arent you trying to negotiate with the Palestinians? An active Hamas and a very weak Palestinian Authority makes that explainable. You can tell everyone we cannot negotiate, that Abu Mazen doesnt control even half of his own people. And with Hamas  no one asked us to negotiate with the terrorist organization. I dont want to go into what really motivates Netanyahu, but in order to protect this ideology of one state and to block the trajectory toward the possibility of two states, he ended up strengthening Hamas. Now, we are like Steinbeck with the grapes. Whats the name of his book? Grapes 

The Grapes of Wrath.

Yeah. So in a very frustrating way, we are now harvesting the fruit.

You reap what you sow, in other words. I was watching remarks you gave before the attack about lessons learned from the Yom Kippur War. And you said people always blame the intelligence services for their failures but that it was actually a failure for all layers of government. Given your harsh criticism of Netanyahu, I assume you think the same holds true in this situation. Why isnt there more of a call for him to resign now? I know its the heat of war and he brought in a coalition government, but he failed at the one thing he was supposed to do, which is keep the country safe.

First of all, in any normal country  think of the U.K, or Belgium. In the U.K., Prime Minister Sunak would resign.

I dont think Donald Trump would resign.

Yeah, because in the U.S. it is chosen personally by the people directly to be commander-in-chief. But in Britain, like in Israel, the prime minister is not elected personally. There were elections, and in Israel there are coalitions. Parliament gave him a mandate, and hes first among equals within a collective.

If a British prime minister didnt resign, the members of his party would convince him to resign. But Netanyahu wont do it. And the mood in Israel now is too close to the event itself. People have not yet processed it. The stories are still shocking  both the heroic stories and the stories of helplessness. There are still hundreds of bodies that have not been identified after two weeks. So the mood now is not of accountability. But its like a volcano  its simmering underneath the surface, and itll erupt in a very short time with this demand.

This clearly was not just a political failure; it was a painful failure of intelligence and a painful failure on the operational side of the response, despite the heroic behavior of individuals who fought against those killers. But it caused a total loss of trust by the people. The people do not have a drop of trust in Netanyahu. Polls taken in the last few days in Israel show that 70 percent of the public want to see him resign. Half of them want to see him resign immediately and another half want to see him resign after the war. But wars in Israel  people think of the Six-Day War. The most severe one was three weeks long. Six-day war, one week. The second Lebanese war was a month. The longest one in the last 50 years was a clash with Hamas five years ago that took almost two months. So people think, Okay, lets delay. Dont deal with it. The war will be over in two months, so well throw him out then. Why deal with it when we have to unite to fight? But when you realize that it might take a year, probably two years, and never have a concrete end, especially if we end up fighting with Lebanon, too  they will realize that this is not an option, that they will have to decide much earlier. So I think that its about to erupt. Many people tell me he is finished, not to invest any energy in removing him because hes finished. Im not sure.

Im not sure either.

Not to mention the fact that subconsciously he might have an incentive to let the war go on.

Yes, I was thinking that too.

I think that well see it in the coming weeks, probably. An eruption of popular rage and rejection that technically cannot remove him because the end step should be a political step that follows protocol. But this lava of popular rage thats traveling through every part of the society, including his voters, will probably convince some of his partners in government or some of his followers within Likud to activate one of the procedures that leads either to another government in the Knesset or general elections.

Do you sense a complete unity of purpose among Israeli citizens right now about this ground invasion, about prosecuting this war?

Yes. Some people believe that its better to try to solve the hostages issue even if it takes several weeks. But we do not control how long it takes. If its clear to Hamas that we are going to eradicate it from power and from military capabilities immediately after the hostage challenge is solved, it might incentivize them not to let it be solved. And there are those who thought that probably we have to start with Hezbollah, but it doesnt make sense. If you start with Hezbollah, you are immediately on two fronts.

So there are disputes, but basically there is a sense of unity, readiness to fight, readiness to sacrifice, to do whatever it takes to put this behind us with no way to repeat it. And because theyve lost trust in Netanyahu himself, many are very happy that two former generals from the opposition joined the war cabinet. Two of them were chiefs of staff, commanders of the armed forces, and one of them was even defense minister until a bit more than a year ago. Theyre trusted to be sober, independent, balanced personalities.

You came among the closest of anyone to achieving a real peace deal back in 2000. Looking back, do you have any regrets about the way you handled this issue? And is there anything that could have been done differently on the Israeli side to avoid getting to where we are now? Or was it inevitable that it would come to this?

I dont believe in inevitability in life. Nothing is inevitable. I think that most of the responsibility for the fact we dont have a better situation with the neighbors is basically on the Palestinian organization like Hamas, and Islamic Jihad, but also a heavy burden on the Palestinian Authority. But it wouldnt be an accurate description to say that we were perfect. Another Israeli government, as I mentioned earlier, probably wouldve tried in the last 15 years to reduce tensions, to promote normalization, even if full peace wasnt yet available. And to actively strengthen the Palestinian Authority and weaken Hamas. Not the opposite way. That makes a difference. I cannot promise you that if the other path had been taken, wed already have peace. We definitely wouldnt have North American peace, or Scandinavian peace, but we might be in a better place.

What about blockading Gaza the last 16 years? Was that the right move?

There were many concrete proposals. There is a security-affairs group in Israel that includes the top echelon of the Israel Defense Forces, Israeli Mossad, Israel Secret Service, even Israel police. And they wrote long papers to the government about how to develop the Gaza Strip. There was even a proposal from a minister in Likud to build an artificial island in front of the Gaza Strip  to let them have a well-controlled port, a seaport, and probably an airport. Let them develop some small gas fields to have energy independence and desalination of water, probably providing cables and pipes to the West Bank. There were many ideas that were never discussed because Netanyahu had a different policy  to block it, not to promote it.

Going back to go 23 years ago, I have no regrets. Theres an urban legend that me and Bill Clinton tried to dictate certain positions to Arafat, that we told him Take it or leave it or something. Theres nothing to it. It was very close, but I keep telling people that when you have to measure the volume of a gap, you have to multiply the width by the depth. So sometimes it seems close, but its very deep. The essence of it was, toward the end of Camp David, we put on the table a proposal that was 90-plus percent of what he could dream of. We told him, You can have your reservations about any paragraph, or all of them. Write them down. We just expect you to accept this document as a basis for further negotiations  nothing more. The fact that he rejected it and turned deliberately to terror made it his responsibility. You cannot avoid it.

I always compare Camp David to the case of two families cottages. A fire is about to start, and the two householders want to put it out. One of them has a medal of world excellence in firefighting and the Nobel Peace Prize, but you dont realize hes got fuel and matches in his pocket. And thats what happened. Arafat got a Nobel Peace Prize, but I thought that he deserved an Oscar. I couldnt penetrate his soul. Probably he perceived himself as a heroic leader. One of the Palestinian leaders told me after Camp David that we needed a Ben-Gurion but we got Arafat. He didnt mean the Ben-Gurion the Zionist, he meant the Ben-Gurion who in November of 47 was ready to get whatever he could from the General Assembly regarding making Palestine under the British mandate into two states, Jewish and Arab, in spite of the fact that the Jewish state was almost nonviable, three territories hardly connected. He accepted it.

How do you feel about the distant prospect of peace now?

Its not a time to discuss what will happen in the long term. For the immediate term, I put any ideas of pacifying the conflict, solving it, on the shelf. Now we have to destroy Hamass capabilities and its presence as the ruler of the Gaza Strip. But I never lose sight of the right vision for Israel with two states. Not because of justice for the Palestinian, which is not my utmost priority, but because of our own future and identity and security. Im confident that this is the right way and we should never lose eye contact with it and wait for the right timing and opportunity to move and execute it.

But its not a secret that there is another view, a quite popular one, held by the present government, which is totally different. But with this government, its all leading to one state, which I think in the long run is a disastrous alternative. But that should be decided within the Israeli body of politics and people once the war is ended. About the war, we are all united. A shocking event like this one should never be possible again. Its another case of Never Again for all the right reasons.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
3 items in this article Photo: Retailer

Last year, I went to visit my friend Sunny in her beautiful new house in Irvington, New York, and noticed, among the many well-appointed furnishings, a massive rug in her dining room. It was made of a natural fiber comprising spiraling square panels, which produced a diamond-pattern effect that felt both dynamic and grounding in the stately room. I made a mental note to ask her about it the next time I was in the market for a new floor covering.

I didnt think much of it until a few months ago, when I started noticing the same style of rug in design magazines and on the Instagram accounts of stylish people including Daphne Javitch (in the Los Angeles home she shares with her husband, Pali Xisto Cornelsen) and Julie ORourke of clothing brand Rudy Jude. A couple Strategist editors also noticed the rugs popping up in their feeds, including at Stissing House restaurant in Hudson Valley, so I asked Sunny about where she got hers.

Turns out its the Original Rug, a handmade seagrass rug from Rush House, a company started in 2020 by Liz Strong and Page Mullins. Sunny first saw it in Architectural Digest and tracked it down because she loved the price point, especially for such a big rug. The largest size, 9 by 12 feet, costs $425, which, for comparison, is about a fifth of the price of this Nordic Knots rug (in the same size) I recently wrote about. While rugs made of natural fibers like jute and seagrass are generally more affordable than wool rugs, the economics of this particular designer-approved style make it extra appealing. (Strategist writer Emma Wartzman adds that her mom owns this rug in L.A. and has a whole thing about how a lot of interior designers use it because its pretty affordable in huge sizes.)

Its also designed to be customizable. Sunny ordered two and stitched them together herself to create one large rug to fit her dining room. (Rush House sells a sewing kit for $15.) You can also easily remove squares to cut it down to size  or even replace tiles if they get damaged or stained. And similar styles abound. I saw a version in artist Julia Felsenthals house  turns out hers is from Lauren Liesss collaboration with Rugs USA. This one is made from braided jute instead of seagrass also set into spiraling square panels, yielding a flatter, softer effect.

While they wont feel as soft underfoot as a wool rug, theyre not scratchy either. Its not a rug that the kids are going to roll on, my friend tells me, but the dog does nap in the dining room from time to time. For added comfort (and to extend the life of the rug), Rush House recommends using a quarter-inch-thick rug pad designed in a custom color that blends seamlessly with the Original style. As for cleaning it, Sunny tells me that vacuuming it is easy enough. Weve dropped plenty of food on it, and you wouldnt notice at all, she says, though, to be honest, its probably all dropping through the weave onto the rug pad underneath. (For a deeper clean, you might want to lift the rug and give the pad a good vacuum, too.) Still, its a hardy rug: The dog has puked on the rug multiple times and you absolutely cannot tell. (She uses a pet spray for that without any issues.)

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Hands off our brand - Italy's Mixed By Erry music pirates stand up to Amazon

Three Italian brothers who were once pioneers of music piracy and mix-tape moguls now claim they are being ripped off by Amazon.

In the late 1970s, in the tough Forcella neighbourhood of Naples, Enrico Frattasio dreamed of being a disc jockey. He found the best way to share his love of the best new tunes from Italy and abroad was to make mix-tapes. With the help of his two brothers, Angelo and Giuseppe, he created his own label and brand Mixed by Erry.

At the peak of their fame, the brothers were employing 100 people and selling 200,000 pirated audio cassettes a week.

But as loopholes in Italys copyright laws closed, their empire was squeezed out of action, and the brothers found their love and music and entrepreneurial efforts had landed them on the wrong side of the law.

Spool forward a few decades, and they are the subjects of a Netflix movie, Mixed by Erry (2023), and their brand is once again becoming well known.

Now they are turning to the law once again, this time to defend their registered brand, against copyright infringements by Amazon.

Euronews journalist Luca Palamara met the brothers in Naples. You can watch his report in the video player above.
Heather Thompson says more needs to be done for worried women

Women affected by a review of cervical smears in the Southern Health Trust have said they are "angry, frustrated and scared" for their future.

About 17,500 patients in the trust are to have their previous smears re-checked as part of a major review of cervical screening dating back to 2008.

Some of these women will be recalled to have new smear tests carried out.

Letters were sent out by the trust earlier this month to those affected.

BBC News NI understands that the review of samples has not yet begun.

Among those to receive a letter were Heather Thompson and Brenda Redpath.

Both women found each other on social media after they sought further information and support.

Going private

Brenda and Heather have urged the trust to provide clarity, as well as a new smear test, to all affected patients.

"We have so many unanswered questions, and I think the trust should be holding public meetings from Dungannon to Tandragee to talk to us," Heather said.

The 63-year-old, who has had three smears since 2009, said she had "no faith in the system whatsoever" after the incident and that someone should be held accountable.

Since receiving the letter Heather, who had been due for another smear, said she decided to go private for "peace of mind".

People contacted by the trust should not ignore them, Brenda Redpath says

In Northern Ireland, there is an approximate six-month wait for a smear test result in the health service.

For private patients, it is around three weeks.

Both women are in contact with around a dozen other people on social media, including a pregnant woman who will be unable to have a smear until months after she gives birth.

The review of smear test results, follows a highly critical report commissioned by the Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath), which found cytology staff were "underperforming", mechanisms to check their work were "flawed" and action taken by management was "inadequate".

The report was initially triggered in February after a woman, who had three abnormal smears missed, described being told she had cervical cancer.

Story continues

Smear tests check the health of the cervix

Brenda, who is 71, said the Southern Trust should provide women with more detail, including how quickly those found to have abnormal results will be re-tested.

She appealed to all those who received letters to not just put them behind the clock, but to be proactive about their health.

What is cervical screening?

Cervical screening can not detect cancer, but detecting and treating abnormal cells may help prevent cancer. No screening process is 100% accurate.

The screening looks for the human papillomavirus (HPV) which can cause abnormal cells on the cervix. If HPV is detected a cytology test is used to check for any abnormal cells.

Unlike the rest of the UK and Ireland, Northern Ireland does not have the primary HPV screening system in full operation.

In Northern Ireland, the cervical screening process involves two people - a screener and checker analysing slides under a microscope.

The Southern Trust said it was reviewing the cases of some 17,500 women, but the report actually recommends that those women considered most at risk should be recalled so they can be reassured by a negative HPV test.

Broadly, these women are those who had a negative or inadequate result during the review period and have not had any tests since.

The Southern Trust did not follow up this recommendation as it does not currently have the resources to carry out repeated smear tests for these women, as there is already a backlog across Northern Ireland.

At the time, the Department of Health called the report's findings "clearly unacceptable".

What has the Southern Trust said?

The Southern Health Trust said it was "sincerely sorry" for any concern caused and said the review of slides was "precautionary".

The Trust said that in the majority of cases, they will be able to review the previous smear but in some cases, they will invite women to attend for a further smear test.

In a statement, the Trust said that "any women whose slide review detects potential abnormalities will be prioritised for invitation for a new smear test or for further assessment and diagnosis at colposcopy if appropriate".

"To recall all women for a smear test could cause unnecessary discomfort and inconvenience for those affected, and may result in some not attending for a variety of reasons," the statement continued.

But Heather said this was not reassuring, adding that for some women the result wouldn't be good and that would impact on them for the rest of their lives.

Doug Beattie, the Ulster Unionist assembly member for the area, has written to the Department of Health's permanent secretary to ask why all 17,500 women can't be retested again.

"Someone also needs to look into what happened," he said.

"We have some incredibly professional people who work in our health trust, we trust them but when they get it wrong, we need to find out why, so it doesn't happen again."

In a statement the Southern Trust said the letters were "not an indication that these women may have cancer" and it was merely a test to check if there were any abnormalities that could potentially lead to cancer in the future.

It reiterated the chance of pre-cancerous changes in the cervix at any time remained low and nine in ten people have a negative screening result.

"We have written to women whose slides will be reviewed to advise them that they will contacted by letter regarding the outcome... or to invite them for a new smear test.

"It will take a number of months for this work to be completed.

"The task of implementing this review is significant and robust governance arrangements are in place."
The US Space Force will propose an $8 billion nuclear-survivable satellite system to the government.

This is precisely the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications System (ESS), an artificial constellation designed for military communications (MILCOM) and PNT (Positioning, Navigation, and Timing). The US Armed Forces' space service branch explained why ESS would greatly benefit the United States, especially its military troops.

US Space Force to Propose $8 Billion Nuclear-Survivable Satellite System

The US Space Force said that its Space Systems Command is expected to issue a request for proposals for ESS as early as 2024.

"We have a request for proposals coming in January for the space vehicle piece," said Space Systems Command's MILCOM and PNT Program Executive Officer Cordell DeLaPena via SpaceNews.

However, this military satellite constellation will not be cheap as it is estimated to cost around $8 billion.

For those wondering why this space system is super expensive, DeLaPena explained that ESS would be a survivable and jam-resistant satcom for the NC3 (nuclear command, control, and communications) mission.

He shared this detail during the previous AFCEA Space Industry Days conference, which happened last week in Los Angeles. DeLaPena said a satellite system designed for the NC3 mission could ensure the national command authorities' communications on land, in the air, and at sea.

The Space Systems Command official explained that the ESS constellation can secure control of strategic forces even during a nuclear war.

"SSC programs like ESS are embracing increased competition to deliver world-class capabilities that stay ahead of the threat and secure the interests of the US and its allies," said the US Space Force via its official ESS document.

Read Also: PLA: Chinese Space Weapons Threaten US Space Assets, Says Expert

Other Things To Know About ESS

The upcoming ESS satellites are expected to replace and augment the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) nuclear-hardened satellite network. However, the Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications System is still non-existent since Northrop Grumman and Boeing are still building the satellite system's prototypes as of press time.

Once they are near completion, the ESS prototypes that the two aerospace companies are working on will be evaluated in a side-by-side competition.

This means that Northrop Grumman and Boeing will be competing for the production contract offered by the US Space Force to develop its ESS.

If you want to learn more about the Space Force's upcoming nuclear-survivable satellite constellation, you can click this link.

Related Article: Top Space Force Official Admits US is Left Behind To Match Russia, China's Hypersonic Missile

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
I was just wondering about the airdate yesterday.



Looking forward to it!

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I don't think it's possible for me to be more excited lol so much content!! People who never knew me when David was the Doctor are gong to have a shock at my level of obsession 

I'm gonna watch the series from the start over the next year at it's going to be easier now.

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I hope this means its moving back to Saturday night permanently because Sunday never felt quite right.

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Sunday is definitely not a Dr Who day.

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I really enjoyed Eccleston's season, and I thought David Tennant was super charming, but I stopped watching mid-way through Matt Smith's run



should I go back and watch Jodie's run or should I start fresh with Ncuti? he was my favorite Ken in the barbie movie. I'm still cracking up at that Stephen Malkmus/Lou Reed bit

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i went back to catch up recently. i really liked jodie in the role, as well as mandip gill who played her companion. the writing was all over the place, though.



if youre interested in watching it id go for it, because overall i liked the cast more than i was annoyed with the writing lol. if youd rather jump right in for ncutis series, i think youd be fine. it sounds like russell t. davies (who took over as showrunner again) wants to basically start ncutis series with a blank slate, or as blank of a slate as a show with such a long history can have at least.

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I'll give it a shot

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My thoughts exactly. I was always frustrated that the writing has been so inconsistant on Doctors 11-13 because I did love all three of those doctors and their supporting casts (except for Elder Caillou Matt Lucas) but the writing for them was like mining gems in a mountain of shit.

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God, isnt this the truth. I loved Peter Capaldi in the role, but that was in spite of the awful stories he was in. Steven Moffat should only write stand-alone stories because hes a menace as a showrunner.



and elder Caillou took me out, I hated his character so much

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As someone who quit DW because of Moffat after the Matt Smith era and only recently caught up with the Capaldi and Jodie years, I have to admit that this popular opinion perplexes me. Capaldi's seasons didn't have any more low points than Tennant's and a lot of high points. Like genuinely some of the best writing the show has ever had. Almost enough to redeem Moffat in my eyes (I'm not sure I could watch Matt's seasons on a rewatch though without getting annoyed again lol).

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I wouldn't give Moffat that much credit. Capaldi's always been fucking brilliant in anything he's in and I think he genuinely elevated his material far more than it deserves. (That Kill the Moon episode, WOOF.) The main problem with Capaldi's arc was people were so burnt by the end of the matt smith era that they checked out before he came on and only some of them came back for Jodie.

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Wow, seconding every single thing here. I took a long break after the back half of S7 because Clara/Eleven were insufferable (Moffats attempt at a Rose/Ten dynamic, imo) even though I was psyched about Capaldis casting. I enjoy the S8 and 9 finales, but most of the episodes surrounding them were saved by Capaldis gravitas and chemistry with everyone onscreen.

Kill the Moon was the episode I was thinking about when I left that comment, too, but honestly how could you not think of that when it comes to bad episodes.

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Kill the Moon was egregiously unforgivably bad and I was PISSED when that episode dropped.

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Kill the Moon sucks. Every season has an episode or two that do. I still think that saying most of the episodes in Capaldi's era suffered from bad writing and were saved by his gravitas is absurd tbh (he always elevates whatever he does because that's how good he is but he had a lot of very good material to work with in his time on the show, most of his run is solid to good or even great and it only occasionally dips, I will die on that hill).

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I dont feel like its that ridiculous, but hey, art is subjective so Ill stay on my comfy hill! Im sincerely glad that you enjoyed it more than I did.

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I absolutely loathe Kill the Moon. But that's one ep. Agreed about people being burnt by the Matt Smith era, I apply that to myself, but starting at S8 after a long break without that baggage still lingering in my mind helped me see that the Capaldi era is really not bad on its own at all. Even S8 has so many good episodes. Listen, Time Heist, Mummy on the Orient Express, Flatline are all bangers, the premiere is decent, Robot of Sherwood is hilarious and arguably Mark Gatiss' best DW ep (certainly not any worse than the eps he wrote for Tennant), the finale isn't my favourite but it has its moments. And then S9 and S10 have so many episodes that are either absolute peak or completely solid. Having one or two dodgy episodes per season isn't really out of the norm. I just really don't get the narrative of this era being marred by bad/weak writing more so than any other era of the show. If anything, S10 is the weakest of any of the Capaldi seasons (writing-wise) but it has a great companion, fresh vibes and the best finale of any DW season since the revival. That people were checked out by then is another matter altogether.

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Yeah, I was burnt out on Moffat with the Smith Era and was wary going into S8 but Capaldi won me over pretty quickly and would say his era is on par with Tennant's (or at least close). Sure, there's the occasional clunker but it didn't feel like a case of "this is a good actor with bad material". I felt that very strongly though with Whittaker's era. I absolutely adore her and there was some good stuff here and there but overall she was dealt a shit hand by Chibbers at every turn.

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100% agreed. Jodie really was saddled with material that was more often subpar than not. There were some decent or enjoyable episodes in her era but even then she rarely got a chance to shine. Capaldi might have had a few clunkers (as did Tennant) but he also had amazing highlights and that's down to the scripts. There's nothing he could've done with Jodie's scripts either.

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I wish I could take credit for Elder Caillou but someone here actually did it first in a GBBO post way back when, but it took me the fuck OUT so I've used it ever since.

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I cant say Im excited for RTDs return, but Ill give him this  hes way more consistent than the last two showrunners. Capaldi, Whittaker, and their companions (JUSTICE FOR BILL) deserved better.



I havent kept up on any of the Who news, so Im hoping that the composer who soundtracked Whittakers run sticks around. I really liked their approach.

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Murray Gold is back for the music. I don't usually mind him but the opening theme feels a bit... bland? I just really liked what Segun Akinola did with it.

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YEEEEEEEEEEEEE I'm insanely excited I haven't been this excited for Doctor Who since the late 2000's!!!!

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Richard Roundtree, best known for his role as Detective John Shaft in the '70s action thriller "Shaft," has died.Roundtree's longtime manager, told The AP the actor had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and died at his home in Los Angeles on Tuesday. He was diagnosed with breast cancer in the '90s and underwent a double mastectomy."Richard's work and career served as a turning point for African American leading men," McMinn said. "The impact he had on the industry cannot be overstated."Roundtree made his silver-screen debut in 1971 with his starring role in "Shaft," which followed the exploits of private eye John Shaft.The movie was made for $500,000 and grossed $13 million, winning a best original song Oscar for Isaac Hayes, who composed the title track. This lead to releasing a lot of so-dubbed Blaxploitation movies throughout the 1970s.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the biggest secular megatrends of our time. AI is powering the fourth industrial revolution and is increasingly being viewed as a key strategy for mastering some of the greatest challenges of our time including climate change and pollution. Energy companies are increasingly deploying AI tools to digitize records, analyze vast troves of data and geological maps, and potentially identify problems such as excessive equipment use or pipeline corrosion.

One such company is Dutch energy giant Shell Plc (NYSE:SHEL). In May, Shell announced plans to use AI-based technology from big-data analytics firm SparkCognition in its deep sea exploration and production in a bid to improve operational efficiency and speed as well as boost production.

According to Bruce Porter, chief science officer for Texas-based SparkCognition, Generative AI for seismic imaging has broad and far-reaching implications, adding that the technology can dramatically cut exploration timelines from nine months to less than nine days. Back in 2018, the company partnered with Microsoft to incorporate the Azure C3 Internet of Things platform in its offshore operations. The platform uses AI to drive efficiencies across the companys offshore infrastructure, from drilling and extraction to employee empowerment and safety.

Shell is, however, not the only Big Oil company employing AI in its operations. Back in 2019, BP Plc (NYSE:BP) invested in Houston-based technology start-up Belmont Technology which helped the company develop a cloud-based geoscience platform nicknamed Sandy. Sandy allows BP to interpret geology, geophysics and reservoir project information thus creating unique knowledge-graphs including robust images of BPs subsurface assets. BP is then able to perform simulations and interpret results using the programs neural networks. Related: Shell To Cut 15% Of Its Low-Carbon Jobs

Meanwhile, utilities are employing artificial intelligence to make the electric grid more reliable and efficiently. Typical use cases in the industry include load and weather forecasting, grid management, predictive maintenance, enhancing the output of wind and solar resources, wildfire risk assessment, faster storm recovery and methane leak detection. Three years ago, Google teamed up with IBM to search for a solution to the highly intermittent nature of wind power. Using IBMs DeepMind AI platform, Google deployed ML algorithms to 700 megawatts of wind power capacity in the central United States--enough to power a medium-sized city.

IBM says that by using a neural network trained on widely available weather forecasts and historical turbine data, DeepMind is now able to predict wind power output 36 hours ahead of actual generation. Consequently, this has boosted the value of Googles wind energy by roughly 20 percent.

Power-Hungry AI

However, like all technologies known to man, AI has a dark side to it: high energy consumption.

According to Sreedhar Sistu, vice president of artificial intelligence for Schneider Electric, excluding China, AI represents 4.3 GW of global power demand today, a figure that could grow almost five-fold by 2028. Running AI tasks typically requires more powerful hardware than traditional computing tasks. According to a study by Alex De Vries, PhD candidate at the VU Amsterdam School of Business and Economics, AI consumes 85-134 terawatt-hours (TWh) of electricity each year, or about as much as the energy consumption of the Netherlands. Indeed, AI is nearly as power-hungry as mining bitcoin: a new research by Digiconomist has warned that if not managed properly, AI could be responsible for as much electricity consumption as Bitcoin is today in just a few years' time.

AI-servers are power-hungry devices. According to Digiconomist, a single NVIDIA DGX A100 server consumes as much electricity as several U.S. households combined. This implies that powering hundreds of thousands or even millions of these devices starts to add up quickly and could start to strain the very power grids they are supposed to make more efficient.

Whereas the supply chain of AI-servers is currently facing some bottlenecks that might moderate AI growth and power consumption in the near future, experts have predicted that it wont be long before these bottlenecks are resolved. Indeed, a KPMG survey has found that 83% of industry executives are confident that semiconductor chip shortages that hit at the height of the Covid pandemic will largely ease by the end of 2023.

The Digiconimist report contains a call to action to be mindful about the use of AI. The paper notes that emerging technologies such as AI and previously blockchain tend to be accompanied by a lot of hype and fear of missing out, leading to the creation of applications that yield little to no benefit to end-users. Digiconomist says this waste can be mitigated by attempting to build solutions that provide the best fit with the needs of the end-users.

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The United Automobile Workers and Ford Motor Company reached a tentative agreement on a new four-year labor contract on Wednesday night. This comes six weeks after UAW initiated strikes targeting Detroit's Big Three automakers.

UAW provided details about the "record contract" with Ford:

The agreement grants 25% in base wage increases through April 2028, and will cumulatively raise the top wage by over 30% to more than $40 an hour, and raise the starting wage by 68%, to over $28 an hour.

The lowest-paid workers at Ford will see a raise of more than 150% over the life of the agreement, with some workers receiving an immediate 85% increase immediately upon ratification.

The agreement reinstates major benefits lost during the Great Recession, including Cost-of-Living Allowances and a three-year Wage Progression, as well as killing divisive wage tiers in the union. It improves retirement for current retirees, those workers with pensions, and those who have 401(k) plans. It also includes a historic right to strike over plant closures, a first for the union.

"We won things nobody thought was possible," said UAW boss Shawn Fain Wednesday night in a video posted on X.

Fain continued, "Since the strike began, Ford put 50% more on the table."

The labor agreement is subjected to an Oct. 29 vote with UAW leadership. Then, it must be ratified by Ford's 57,000 US hourly workers.

Ford issued a brief statement that said, "We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our US operations."

As far as labor costs for Ford, Bloomberg Intelligence revealed:

"Ford's tentative labor agreement with the UAW may increase its costs by more than $900 million in its first year, based on an 11% raise in year one, putting additional pressure on the company's efforts to enhance its mediocre profitability."

Those costs will be passed down to the consumer...

This agreement sets us on a new path to set things right at Ford, at the Big Three and across the auto industry, Fain said.

UAW continues negotiating with General Motors and Stellantis.

* * *

One week after United Auto Workers boss Shaw Fain targeted Ford Motor Company's largest and most profitable plant in Kentucky, sources tell AP News that the union appears to be inching closer to a tentative contract agreement with the automaker that could end the six-week strike.

Two people familiar with discussions said UAW made a counter-offer to Ford of a 25% general wage increase over the new four-year contract. They said Tuesday talks between the union and automaker extended well into Wednesday morning. Ford has previously offered UAW a 23% pay hike.

They added that Ford would include cost-of-living pay adjustments that could send pay increases above 30%, and workers would receive annual profit-sharing checks.

It's still possible that contract talks could sour, and UAW boss Fain could hit Ford with a 'surprise' labor action, sort of like what happened last week when Ford's Louisville plant, which makes Ford Super Duty pickups, the Ford Expedition, and the Lincoln Navigator SUVs, was hit with an 8,700-member UAW strike.

The progress with Ford comes a day after the UAW hit General Motors' largest and most profitable SUV plant in Arlington, Virginia, with a 5,000-member strike on Tuesday. Sources say there has been some progress in labor talks with GM.

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As of Wednesday, 46,000 UAW workers are striking across all three automakers, or about 32% of the union's 146,000 members.

"I think that Shawn Fain struck these plants at this particular time over the past week because he thought they would be near a deal and this would be the extra nudge to get something cemented," Marick Masters, a business professor at Wayne State University in Detroit, told AP.

Masters continued, "When you look at the movement and the concessions, they're getting smaller but moving closer to what the union wanted."

During GM's earnings report on Tuesday, CFO Paul Jacobson said, "We can't get ourselves in a situation of signing a deal that we can't afford to pay or that doesn't allow us to compete in the global marketplace."

By Zerohedge.com

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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the Hamas militant group is not a terrorist organization and he later canceled his planned visit to Israel amid a tense situation in the Middle East.

During his remarks on Wednesday, Erdogan said that Hamas is a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands. Turkey, a member of the global military alliance NATO, condemned the civilian deaths caused by Hamas' attacks on Oct. 7 in southern Israel.

Turkey on Hamas Militant Group

However, Ankara also urged Israeli forces to act restraint in responding to the militant group's assault and strongly criticized Jerusalem's bombardment of Gaza. In a statement, Erdogan said, "Hamas is not a terrorist organization, it is a liberation group."

The Turkish president added that "mujahideen" are waging a battle to protect their lands and people, using an Arabic word that denotes those fighting for their faith. Unlike many of Turkey's NATO allies and the European Union, Ankara does not consider Hamas a terrorist organization, as per Reuters.

It also occasionally hosts group members on its territory, and it currently supports a two-state solution to the decades-old Israel-Palestinian conflict. The Turkish president also criticized Western powers for supporting Jerusalem's bombing of Gaza and called for an immediate ceasefire, the unhindered entry of humanitarian aid to the embattled region, and for Muslim countries to work together to stop the conflict.

Erdogan said that the perpetrators of the massacre and the destruction that is currently taking place in Gaza are those who are providing unlimited support for Israel. He added that the attacks on Gaza amount to murder and mental illness for both itself and those supporting them.

On the other hand, Israel rejected the Turkish president's description of the Hamas militant group. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lior Haiat called the group a "despicable terrorist organization."

Read Also: US, Russia Offer Israel-Hamas War Resolution To UN

Fighting in Gaza

After making the remarks about Hamas, Erdogan also canceled his plans to visit Israel because of its "inhumane" war. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan accused Israel of "a crime against humanity" in its campaign in Gaza, according to the Times of Israel.

Fidan noted that this crime was because Israel targeted Palestinians, including children, patients, and the elderly, even in schools, hospitals, and mosques. The Turkish foreign minister spoke alongside Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani.

The situation comes as humanitarian aid to Gaza faces obstacles, with only eight trucks making it into the region overnight. Additionally, hospitals in the region are increasingly overwhelmed with the wounded.

United States President Joe Biden has called for more aid into Gaza and assurances that the help reaches those who need it most. The Democrat added that his country was working with regional partners to ensure that happens.

On Wednesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that nearly a third of Gaza's hospitals were not functioning. According to the New York Times, the agency added that seven major hospitals were well over capacity, risking patient safety.

Related Article: Emmanuel Macron Visits Israel, Proposes International Coalition To Fight Hamas

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
An Australian hydrogen company will build a campus in New Mexico where it will work on proprietary technology to use hydrogen for heating.

Thats according to the AP, which reported New Mexicos Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham had signed the deal with Star Scientific during her attendance at a hydrogen conference in Sydney.

Our system doesnt burn gas, it reacts the gas, the global group chairman of the 20-employee company, Andrew Horvath, said about the technology. It creates an instantaneous reaction whereby you end up with the heat from the excitation energy from those atoms.

Hydrogen, an energy carrier, is considered one of the pillars of the energy transition but adopting it on a large enough scale in the form produced by wind or solar has been challenging because of cost and other problems.

Hydrogen is highly combustible, which makes storage and transportation tricky, and there is also a danger of leaks. At the same time, it needs special containers and carriers because of its corrosive nature.

Environmentalists are also starting to have misgivings towards hydrogen because of the above plus what they see as an opportunity for oil and gas companies to benefit from government plans for hydrogen, even though these plans normally feature green hydrogen only rather than the so-called blue and green varieties that require inputs of hydrocarbon products.

New Mexicos governor appears to be an enthusiastic supporter of hydrogen, from the AP report, seeing such ventures as opportunities for job creation in the state.

Star Scientific, which was founded by Andrew Horvath, was financed, per its website, by scientists and philanthropists to develop its HERO technology, an acronym that stands for Hydrogen Energy Release Optimiser. So far, the company has raised some $63 million and has plans for international expansion.

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Besides the New Mexico deal, Star Scientific recently signed a preliminary deal with the government of the Philippines to help the country move from hydrocarbon-fueled power generation to green hydrogen.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation, or Sinopec, said on Thursday that it booked an increase of 34% in its net profit for the third quarter thanks to strong fuel sales and higher rates of crude oil processing.

The worlds top refiner by capacity, Sinopec, reported a net profit of ($2.44 billion (17.86 billion Chinese yuan) for July to September, the company said in a filing quoted by Reuters.

Revenues at Sinopec increased by 4.2% in the third quarter, compared to the same period of 2022.

Sinopecs refining throughput rose by 7.6% year-over-year in the first nine months of 2023, to around 5.18 million barrels of crude oil per day, and sales also increased amid stronger demand for fuels in China and higher fuel exports, which more than offset the lower realized oil and gas prices from the upstream division. Sinopecs sales of refined fuels rose by 19% in volume terms.

The third quarter was a turnaround in terms of profits for Sinopec, which reported earlier this year a 20.1% decline in its net profit for the first half of 2023, amid lower international crude oil prices and weaker-than-expected fuel demand recovery in China.

But refining throughput across China recovered in the third quarter amid stronger demand, both domestically and on the export markets.

In August, high margins on the export markets and peak domestic summer demand prompted Chinas refiners to boost crude oil processing to a record-high 15.23 million barrels per day (bpd). The total throughput jumped by 19.6% compared to August 2022, according to data from Chinas National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Between January and August, refinery throughput went up by 11.9% year-over-year to 14.76 million bpd, per Reuters estimates.

In September, Chinese refiners further boosted refining throughput to another record-high of 15.48 million bpd, according to official Chinese data.

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By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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U.S. crude oil benchmark prices settled at their lowest level in two weeks as geopolitical risks continue to move the the price of the fossil fuel.

Future prices for Brent and WTI settled lower on Thursdaythe lowest level in two weeks, falling by more than 2% on the day as Israel agreed to delay an anticipated ground invasion of Gaza until at least later this week.

WTI crude was trading at $83.31 on Thursday after sinking $2.08 per barrel (-2.44%) on the day. Brent crude oil fell $2.10 per barrel (-2.33%) to $88.03 at 4:00 pm ET. The WTI benchmark is now $7 per barrel lower than this time last week, with Brent trading down by more than $5 per barrel over the last seven days.

While the conflict in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas has little direct impact on crude oil prices, the threat of Irans future involvement in the conflictand the likely resulting sanctions on Iran should it choose to more actively participate in supporting Hamasraised crude oil prices until about this time last week.

The conflict has led to a rash of forecast revisions for oil prices, with the usual outlying estimates making a case that oil prices could head to triple digits. Those predictions and the Biden Administrations fear that a crude price hike could create discomfort for American consumers have sparked another round of discussions that the Administration could release more crude oil from an already pillaged Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and another round of scrambling with Saudi Arabia to encourage OPEC and OPEC+ to increase production.

OPEC, however, is still operating under the idea that extra crude oil production should only be released into the market if fundamentals call for it. As for the Strategic Petroleum Reserves in the United States, they are now just half of what they were when Biden took office.

But already falling oil prices mean the Biden Administration may leave the Biden Administration with little to address.

By Julianne Geiger for Oilprice.com

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The price of coal in China is falling. The trend has been enabled by record-high production of the hydrocarbon fuel at home as well as rising imports.

Per Bloomberg, this means that the winter is unlikely to bring with it power crunches like the ones seen in the past when shortages of fuel for power plants caused outages.

Citing data from the China Coal Transport and Distribution Association, Bloomberg noted that coal power plant operators had replenished their stocks for the winter and demand has temporarily slowed.

Theres no pressure to buy more until the weather gets colder, likely in late November, an analyst from the association told media this week.

China, which is the biggest producer of wind and solar power, is also the biggest fan of coal still, planning to add a massive increase in its generation capacity, signing permits for an average of two new coal power plants per week.

In the first half of the year, permits were granted for 52 GW of new coal power capacity. New coal capacity additions to the grid during the period stood at a much lower but still substantial 17.1 GW, according to data from Global Energy Monitor and the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air.

There is some 136 GW of new coal capacity under construction, which equals 66.7% of the global total. At the same time, demand is rising as the number of EVs on Chinese roads increases and as various industries return to business as normal after the pandemic.

A Reuters report from September suggested that Chinas additions of coal generation capacity had a direct causal link to rising EV numbers, ironic as it might seem. A more recent report, authored by market analyst John Kemp, noted that demand for electricity in China has surged recently, prompting record generation, most of which came from hydro and coal.

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Spanish energy group Repsol reported on Thursday a 14% lower net income for January to September, due to lower crude oil and gas prices than in the year-ago period, while it strengthened its renewable energy portfolio.

Repsols net income for the first nine months of 2023 was $2.93 billion (2.785 billion euros), down by 14% year-on-year.

Adjusted income, which specifically measures the performance of the businesses, was fell by 19% to $4 billion (3.816 billion euros), with a lower decline than the drop in oil and natural gas prices compared to the first nine months of 2022.

In the first nine months of 2023, Brent crude oil traded at an average of $82.1 per barrel, 22% lower than in the same period of the previous year. Meanwhile, the average price of Henry Hub gas slumped by 60% to $2.70 per MBtu, Repsol noted.

The Spanish firm boosted its portfolio of renewable energy assets globally, including in the United States.

The company, however, warned that an uncertain regulatory framework could impact its investment decisions in Spain.

The possible continuation of a tax on energy companies that had been designed to be temporal and extraordinary punishes the companies that, like Repsol, are investing in industrial assets, creating jobs and guaranteeing the countrys energy independence and instead favor importers that neither create jobs nor any relevant economic activity in Spain, Repsol said.

The lack of stability of the country's regulatory and fiscal framework may impact Repsols future industrial projects Spain.

Separately, Repsol noted that the recent easing of the U.S. sanctions on Venezuelas oil provides future opportunities for the development of greater activity and value creation in the country.

Among other aspects, it increases the availability of heavy crude oil for the company's refineries, which have different characteristics to obtain higher yields of this type of oil, Repsol said.

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Joint ventures operated by Eni, Repsol, and Maurel & Prom could increase Venezuelas crude oil production by an additional 50,000 bpd in the near term, according to IPD Latin America cited by the EIA.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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TotalEnergies and Qatar could divert to other countries LNG cargoes bound for France after 2026 for 27 years, according to the chief executive of the French supermajor.

Earlier this month, QatarEnergy and TotalEnergies signed two long-term LNG agreements under which Qatar will supply up to 3.5 million tons per year of LNG to France for 27 years beginning in 2026.

Under the deal, the LNG will be delivered on an ex-ship basis to the Fos Cavaou LNG receiving terminal in southern France.

TotalEnergies is a minority partner in Qatars huge LNG expansion projects North Field East (NFE) and North Field South (NFS), from which the volumes to be delivered to France will be sourced. TotalEnergies partnership in the expansion projects is made up of a 6.25% share in the NFE project and a 9.375% interest in the NFS project.

If we need to redirect part of these LNG (flows) to another country... I think Qatar and ourselves, if it's in our interest, we will do it, TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne said on the conference call for the Q3 results, as carried by Reuters.

I don't see (how) you could manage complex power electricity markets in Europe with a lot of renewables without having flexible assets, the executive added.

TotalEnergies is not the only European major to have recently signed LNG supply deals with Qatars state giant QatarEnergy.

Earlier this week, QatarEnergy signed another 27-year agreement to ship LNG to Europe by agreeing to deliver cargoes for Eni in Italy beginning in 2026, after similar deals with Shell and TotalEnergies for supply to the Netherlands and France, respectively.

Under the latest deal with Eni, QatarEnergy and the Italian major will deliver LNG to FSRU Italia, a floating storage and regasification unit located in the port of Piombino, in Italys Tuscany region.

Earlier this month, Qatar signed an agreement with Shell to deliver LNG to the Gate LNG terminal in the port of Rotterdam.

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Berkshire Hathaway (BRKA: BRKB) has expanded its stake in Occidental Petroleum (OXY) with a purchase of another 3.9 million shares this week, according to a Securities and Exchange Commission regulatory filing.

Warren Buffetts holding company now owns 25.8% of the Houston-based oil company, for a value of more than $14 billion, after purchasing 1,686,368 shares at a weighted average price of $62.7969 on October 23, 1,195,400 shares on October 24 at $62.6863, and 1,040,067 on October 25 at $63.0483.

Buffett received approval to purchase up to 50% of Occidental, holding warrants for another 83.86 million shares at $59.624 each, the security filing showed. While Buffet doesnt often comment on Berkshires purchases of OXY, he did previously say at Oxys annual meeting this summer that they are not going to take outright control of OXY.

In general, however, Buffett has described his stock strategy as one that buys stock in well-run companies with a time horizon measured in decades, weathering any typical market fluctuations. His strategy also involves adding stakes when share prices have fallen, and trimming his position during strong periods.

Buffetts purchase breaks from his previous additions of Occidental shares, this time spending more than $60 per share. Up until now, Berkshire has increased its stake in Oxy only when the share price dipped below $60, with the last purchase in June.

This weeks share purchase of OXY began on the same day that Chevron announced it was buying Hess Corp for $53 billion. Berkshire is the largest shareholder in Chevron, holding more than 123 million Chevron shares.

Occidental was trading down on Thursday afternoon following the news, sinking 0.16% to $63.26 per share by 2:20 pm ET.

Occidental has been referred to by analysts as Buffetts favorite energy stock.

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The late Sarpy County Sheriffs Deputy Ed Smith will be missed by many, Sheriff Jeff Davis said.

Smith died Tuesday, Oct. 24 of health complications, according to a statement posted by the Sarpy County Sheriffs Office. He had worked for the sheriffs office for more than 25 years. Prior to joining the sheriffs office, he was a trooper with the Nebraska State Patrol and also served in the U.S. Marine Corps.

We are heartbroken at this loss  both for our agency and his family and friends, said the post by the sheriffs office. Please keep all those hurting in your thoughts and prayers.

Smith got along well with his colleagues, Davis said.

He was kind of a fan favorite with the other employees, he said. Everybody really liked him. He was outgoing, he would do anything he could to help others.

Although Davis was surprised when Smith said he would like to be a school resource officer a little over a year ago, he turned out to be a natural at it.

It couldnt have been a better person, Davis said.

Smith has been serving as a school resource officer at Gretna Public Schools, said Interim Superintendent Travis Lightle.

Gretna Public Schools is deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved School Resource Officer Deputy Ed Smith, the school district said in a statement. Deputy Ed, known for his warm and welcoming demeanor, was a constant presence among our students. He had an extraordinary gift for storytelling, and his genuine care for every student was evident to all who crossed his path.

Lunchtime held a special place in Deputy Eds heart, as it allowed him to sit with students and share his captivating stories, the districts statement continued.

He spent time in all of our buildings, but he was assigned to four: Aspen and Gretna middle schools and Aspen Creek and Gretna elementary schools, Lightle said. Hell be missed. He knew a lot of kids, and the kids just loved him.

Smith enjoyed the duty, Davis said.

He loved it, Davis said. Hes going to be missed not only by our office but a lot of people in the community, his family and siblings.
Two Omaha-based medical staffing firms have confirmed recent layoffs of employees, citing scaled-back use by hospitals and other health facilities of temporary health care workers as they have come down from the peaks of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Medical Solutions, which is headquartered in Omaha but has offices across the U.S., has reduced its enterprise-wide workforce by 10% nationwide, spokeswoman Amber Ireland said in an email Wednesday. She declined, however, to specify how many employees were affected.

"Hospitals and healthcare facilities continue to reduce their use of temporary staff coming out of the pandemic," she said in an emailed statement. "The internal staff reduction is the result of matching our workforce to the demands of our customers post-pandemic."

Omaha-based Fusion, now composed of Fusion Medical Staffing and Fusion Workforce Solutions, also has reduced its workforce by about 10%, or about 70 employees, said Calli Hite, a spokeswoman.

"Unfortunately, due to the changing market conditions in healthcare staffing, Fusion made the difficult decision to reduce the size of our internal workforce," she said in an emailed statement.

The demand for temporary health care workers rose during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as hospitals and other health care facilities sought to bolster their strained workforces.

As the peak of the pandemic subsided, however, health systems have sought to scale back their use of workers contracted through agencies, which filled a need but came at a higher cost.

Timothy Landhuis, vice president of research with Staffing Industry Analysts, said effects are being seen across the travel nurse industry.

Landhuis said his organization, a global research and advisory firm, estimated the travel nurse market at $6.5 billion in 2019. That market grew to $42.7 billion in 2022.

The pandemic had exacerbated a nursing shortage that already was underway, he said. And part of the market growth that occurred was because of the pay raises offered to traveling nurses when health facilities were facing crisis-level need, particularly during COVID spikes. He credited agencies for helping meet that demand.

Hospital executives, however, recognized that such outlays were not sustainable. Locally, many health systems responded by offering their own wage increases and hiring incentives.

CHI Health, for instance, is using about half the travelers it was using during peak COVID times, according to a spokeswoman. Some travelers transitioned to internal regional travelers who receive a premium to go between different metro Omaha CHI locations.

Landhuis said his organization estimated in September the travel nurse market in 2023 at $29.9 billion, a 30% decrease.

Omaha is a national hub for medical staffing companies, a development that dates to the 1980s and '90s. One of the original firms was situated in Omaha, and it spawned a number of offshoots.

The Medical Solutions and Fusion spokeswomen said impacted employees at both firms had been provided severance and career assistance to help them find new positions.

"We recognize the impact this has on impacted employees, especially with the coming holidays, and have offered outplacement services and financial support through the end of the year," Fusion's Hite said in a statement.

Medical Solutions' Ireland said in her statement that the company "took several steps to treat all those impacted with dignity and respect."

However, some Medical Solutions employees complained anonymously on social media about the manner in which the layoffs were handled.

Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of October 2023
Two people, including a 17-year-old girl, have been arrested and charged in connection with a series of four assaults and robberies that took place Monday, police said.

Police said earlier this week that they were searching for a masked, hammer-wielding man who assaulted and robbed four people in southwest Omaha on Monday evening. The robber was described as wearing a Halloween mask depicting movie character Michael Myers.

The alleged robber has been identified as a 20-year-old Omaha man, and his 17-year-old girlfriend is accused of being the getaway driver. The man was charged with two counts of robbery and two counts of attempted robbery, and the girl was charged with two counts of robbery, one count of attempted robbery and one count of criminal mischief.

All of the incidents took place between 6:11 p.m. and 7:05 p.m. on Monday evening, police said. According to an arrest affidavit for the man, the attacks followed a similar pattern: The pair would drive up in a gray sedan, and the masked man would exit the vehicle with a hammer before demanding money and/or cellphones from the victims.

Only two of the four robberies were successful, according to the affidavit. The man allegedly robbed one woman of a cellphone near 102nd Street and Washington Drive, and he stole the wallet of a 79-year-old man who was walking through his neighborhood near 102nd and Harrison Streets. The 79-year-old was also physically assaulted and had bleeding facial injuries, according to a police report.

In the other two incidents, which took place near 90th and L Streets and 105th Street and Mockingbird Drive, the man allegedly demanded cellphones from the victims and chased them a short distance before getting back in the car and fleeing.
Kansas officials confirmed a massive computer outage, which has exacerbated the court system for two weeks.

The experts reported that the security incident was a ransomware attack on Wednesday.

Ransomware Attack Slowed Down Kansas Court System

According to the US News, the Judicial Branch announced the first security incident in Kansas court. The court has stopped electronic filings, processing payments, accepting public access to records, and authorizing people to file electronically for protection from abuse orders and marriage licenses.

Since the state's courts were still offline, the attorneys had limited access to records and were forced to file required documents on paper. The growing piles of paper that need to be organized and scanned are causing the court's exhaustion.

A Lawrence-based criminal defense attorney, Chris Joseph, said the security incident slowed the system down. Lisa Taylor, the Judicial Branch's spokesperson, wrote an email and said that they are handling the incident with the highest priority.

Taylor said they are investigating whether the courts had already identified if the security incident was a malicious attack. They are also examining if there had been a ransom demand and when the systems will return to normal.

Furthermore, the court system has initiated a website to help investigate the incident. She added that officials will join forces with any law enforcement investigation. Allan Liska of the cybersecurity firm Recorded Future concluded that it was doubtful that this was anything but a ransomware attack.

Spokesperson Melissa Underwood said that only those examining the problems are along with federal partners. However, Liska has reported that no ransomware group has claimed credit for the attack.

Read Also: 'Racist' AI Chatbots Prescribe Incorrect Medical Information to Black People

Cybersecurity Threats in Courts

In 2019, Georgia closed some court websites and forced some court dates to be rescheduled. Texas' top criminal and civil courts ran into a ransomware attack in 2020; the filing system remained functioning, and trial courts were unaffected. In 2021, a cybersecurity threat forced Alaska's court to proceed offline for about a week.

Judge Phil Journey in Sedgwick County said that even though he was known as a "techie" judge, he still does not entirely rely on digital files as it poses a risk of postponing trials. He said they will use paper for at least another week and joked, "We'll be killing many trees."

Jonathan Carter, a district attorney's office spokesman, confirmed that the outage has caused some delays, but trials are in progress. According to Karla Whitaker, interim executive director of the Kansas Bar Association, the senior attorneys have been teaching the young attorneys to use faxes and file with paper.

"The wheels of justice are turning," she said on Wednesday. "But I think it's just happening in a different way at a different pace right now," she added.

Related Article: Rising Business Cyberattack Risks: New Report Reveals Over 80% of Companies Suffer From More Than 1 Data Breach



@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
MIAMI (AP)  The ad sounds like something out of the GOP 2024 playbook, trumpeting a senators work with Republicans to crack down on the flow of fentanyl and other illegal drugs into the U.S., getting tough on Chinese interests helping smugglers, and noting how he "wrote a bill signed by Donald Trump to increase funding for Border Patrol.

Its actually a commercial for Sen. Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat facing a tough reelection fight that will help decide control of the Senate.

Ohioans trust Sherrod Brown to keep us safe, says the narrator of the ad, sponsored by the Democrat-aligned Duty and Country PAC. His campaign declined to comment.

The message is one more indication of the political and security challenges the U.S.-Mexico border has presented for President Joe Biden. Some Democrats across the country are distancing themselves from the White House, and polls indicate widespread frustration with Bidens handling of immigration and the border, creating a major liability for the presidents re-election next year.

The Biden administration this week took two actions seen by many as moving to the right on immigration.

The Department of Homeland Security waived environmental and other reviews to construct new portions of a border wall in South Texas after Biden pledged during the 2020 campaign that he would build not another foot of wall. And U.S. officials said they would resume deportations to Venezuela not long after the administration increased protected status for thousands of people from the country.

Both moves inflamed conservatives and liberals alike. Many Republicans accused Biden of being too late to adopt former President Donald Trumps ideas on a border wall, while liberals who oppose additional border restrictions accused the White House of betraying campaign pledges.

My frustration has been that we are not addressing immigration in a holistic way as a country. We are depending on the president alone," said Rep. Veronica Escobar of Texas, a Democrat who represents the border city of El Paso and is a national co-chair of the Biden re-election campaign. "We are treating people from different nationalities in a different way. And the pathways that have been created are being challenged in court consistently.

Biden has said his administration moved forward with the border wall because it was required by Congress during the Trump administration, even though he considers it ineffective. His reelection campaign pointed to Trump's record at the border, including his administrations practice of separating immigrant families as a deterrence measure and the temporary detention of children in warehouses in chain-link cells.

MAGA Republicans are running on the legacy of Donald Trumps playbook of family separation, caging kids, and shouting border! without any serious solutions, said Kevin Munoz, a spokesman for Bidens reelection campaign, referring to supporters of Trumps Make America Great Again movement.

Border crossings hit two-decade highs under Trump but fell during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic, with immigration authorities expelling most border crossers using public health authority known as Title 42.

Upon taking office, Biden paused border wall construction and canceled the Trump administrations  Remain in Mexico  program, but kept expelling many people under Title 42 until this past May.

Still, border crossings are now skyrocketing, which some observers blame on his administration for creating the perception that the border was open. The White House counters that migration has surged across the Western Hemisphere due to regional challenges out of the administration's control.

Conservative media outlets often spotlight border crossings and blame Biden for creating what they say is a crisis. But Biden has taken criticism from many in his own party, including Democratic mayors and governors who want more help caring for newly arriving migrants.

Republican-led border states started busing thousands of immigrants to Democratic-led cities across the country, creating in many places a huge shortage of space thats led to makeshift shelters and camps.

In Chicago, OHare International Airport is now housing hundreds of migrants from babies to the elderly at a shuttle bus center. They sleep on cardboard pads on the floor and share airport bathrooms.

New York Mayor Eric Adams went to Mexico this week to implore would-be migrants not to come. He has accused the Biden administration of not providing enough money or resources for the city to process migrants, telling reporters this summer, The president and the White House have failed New York City on this issue.

Polling suggests that Americans across the political spectrum  even some people sympathetic to immigration  are concerned.

A Marquette Law School poll of registered voters conducted in late September gave Trump, the front-runner for the 2024 GOP nomination, a 24-point advantage over Biden on handling immigration and border security issues  52% to 28%.

The Republican focus on immigration and the border didn't stop Democrats from big victories in the 2018 midterms and Biden and Democrats beat expectations during last years election as well, keeping the Senate and losing the House by a tiny margin to Republicans. But there were some troubling signs even then.

About six in 10 voters then said they disapproved of how Biden was handling the issue of border security, according to AP VoteCast, a sweeping national survey of the electorate. Some 27% of Democrats disapproved of how Biden was handling the border, with one-third of Democrats who identify as moderate or conservative saying this was an issue where they disapproved of Bidens performance, according to VoteCast.

Border security was also a weak spot for Biden among independents, with 66% saying they disapproved.

Sixty-one percent of Democrats said they wanted stronger law enforcement at the border, as did two-thirds of Latino or Hispanic voters (65%).

Escobar, who is a leading Hispanic voice for the Biden campaign, said she is concerned that immigration could hurt the president's re-election efforts.

There is going to be a tendency to blame the White House when in fact this has been a failure on Congress," she said. The last major immigration reform approved by Congress was in 1990.

Auri Lugo, a 31-year-old Venezuelan who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, said she thought resuming deportations was the right thing to do, adding that federal authorities should focus on expediting applications for family-based immigrant visas and the humanitarian parole program. That allows up to 30,000 people to enter the country from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela.

Lugo, who arrived in the U.S. six years ago and has legal residency, was able to bring her 9-year-old son from Venezuela last year through the humanitarian parole program. But she's been unable to bring her mother, who was the boys caregiver since he was 2 years old.

I think its a good thing that they are taking action on the matter," she said. "There are a lot of Venezuelans who are in shelters, who are not working. They do not have a work permit. So they are on the streets.

Despite his 2020 promises on the border, Biden has long been more moderate on the issue than some in his party. As a senator, he voted for legislation to expand U.S.-Mexico border fencing and supported authorizing federal seizure for the construction of new barriers.

He was also vice president to Barack Obama, whose administration set records for the number of people in the country illegally who were deported, earning the president the nickname  deporter-in-chief  from some immigrants rights activists.

The Biden administration has nonetheless taken a number of steps to try and reduce the increasing numbers of migrants arriving at the U.S. border, including setting up processing centers for migrants to apply for U.S. asylum in Guatemala and Colombia, and creating more pathways for others to come legally.

Republicans have run on anti-immigrant sentiments, fearmongering and xenophobia for several cycles. It hasnt worked for them before and it wont work for them this cycle either, said Pili Tobar, a former senior Biden White House official and Democratic strategist. Immigration is a complex issue and there are no easy answers. This administration is working hard with the limited resources it has, to put in place balanced solutions.

Weissert reported from Washington. Associated Press writer Linley Sanders in Washington contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON  Republicans unanimously elected Rep. Mike Johnson as House speaker on Wednesday, eagerly elevating a deeply conservative but lesser-known leader to the major seat of U.S. power and ending, for now, the weeks of political chaos in their majority.

Johnson, 51, of Louisiana swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put the past weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn in to the position, which is second in line to the presidency.

"The people's House is back in business," Johnson declared after taking the gavel.

A lower-ranked member of the House GOP leadership team, Johnson emerged as the fourth Republican nominee in a cycle of political infighting since Kevin McCarthy's ouster as GOP factions jockeyed for power. While not the party's top choice for the gavel, Johnson has few foes and an important GOP backer: Donald Trump.

"I think he's gonna be a fantastic speaker," Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the former president  and Republican front-runner for president in 2024  is being tried for business fraud.

President Joe Biden telephoned his congratulations and said in a statement that it's "time for all of us to act responsibly" with challenges ahead to fund the government and provide aid for Ukraine and Israel.

"We need to move swiftly," the president said.

In the House, far-right members refused to accept a more traditional speaker, and moderate conservatives didn't want a hard-liner. While Johnson had no opponents during a private party roll call late Tuesday, some two dozen Republicans did not vote, more than enough to sink his nomination.

When GOP Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York rose to introduce Johnson's name Wednesday as their nominee, Republicans jumped to their feet for a standing ovation.

Democrats again nominated their leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York, criticizing Johnson as an architect of Trump's effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

With Republicans controlling the House only 221-212 over Democrats, Johnson couldnt afford many detractors to win the gavel. He won 220-209 with a few absences.

Jeffries said House Democrats will find "common ground" work with Republicans whenever possible for the "good of the country."

Lawmakers quickly reconvened to get back to work, approving a resolution saying the House "stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. Next, they turned to a stalled government funding bill.

The endorsements for Johnson started pouring in overnight, including from the failed speaker hopefuls. Rep. Jim Jordan, the Judiciary Committee chairman backed by Trump, gave his support, as did Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the fellow Louisiana congressman rejected by Jordan's wing, who stood behind Johnson after he won the nomination.

Johnson's rise comes after a tumultuous month capped by a head-spinning Tuesday that within a span of a few hours saw one candidate, Rep. Tom Emmer, the GOP whip, nominated and then quickly withdraw when it became clear he would be the third candidate unable to secure enough support from GOP colleagues after Trump bashed his nomination.

"He wasn't MAGA," said Trump, referring to his Make America Great Again campaign slogan.

Attention quickly turned to Johnson. A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson rallied Republicans around Trump's efforts to overturn the 2020 election results in courts.

Republicans flailed all month, unable to conduct routine business as they fought among themselves with daunting challenges ahead.

The federal government risks a shutdown in a matter of weeks if Congress fails to pass funding legislation by a Nov. 17 deadline to keep services and offices running.

More immediately, President Biden has asked Congress to provide $105 billion in aid to help Israel and Ukraine amid their wars and to shore up the U.S. border with Mexico. Federal aviation and farming programs face expiration without action.

Many hard-liners resisted a leader who voted for the budget deal that McCarthy struck with Biden this year, which set federal spending levels that far-right Republicans don't agree with and want to undo. They are pursuing steeper cuts to federal programs and services with next month's funding deadline.

In all, some 15 congressmen, but no women, competed for the gavel over the past several weeks.

During the turmoil, the House was led by a speaker pro tempore, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the chairman of the Financial Services Committee. His main job was to elect a more permanent speaker.

Some Republicans  and Democrats  wanted to give McHenry more power to get on with the routine business of governing. But McHenry, the first person to be in the position that was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks as an emergency measure, declined to back those overtures. He, too, received a standing ovation.
TIJUANA, Mexico  Night after night for six weeks, Erika Hernandez knelt outside her home in central Mexico and prayed: Please, God, dont let my son turn into a criminal.

I prayed a lot. I fasted. My faith was huge, said the 46-year-old woman, fearing her son would be forcibly recruited by a criminal organization.

It didnt take long for God to listen, Hernandez said. By early June, after being kidnapped by members of the Familia Michoacana drug cartel near Mexico City, her son escaped and the family fled north hoping to cross into the United States.

For many migrants like Hernandez, their faith has been essential for coping with their challenging circumstances.

Hernandez and 10 of her relatives spent three months hopping on buses, taxis and walking until they reached the Movimiento Juventud shelter in Tijuana, in northern Mexico, where they are awaiting an opportunity to find a safer home in America.

Before her son's kidnapping, the idea of migrating to the United States had never crossed Hernandezs mind. Her family owned cattle and several tracts of farmland. They had a good life.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said in early October that about 10,000 migrants per day were heading to the U.S. border. Waves of people riding atop railway cars forced Mexicos largest railroad to suspend dozens of freight trains.

While many places in Mexico provide shelter for Venezuelans, Haitians and Central Americans, some shelters in Tijuana have seen an influx of Mexicans fleeing violence, extortion and threats by organized crime.

Jose Guadalupe Torres reached out to God as soon as he left his home in the central state of Guanajuato. His motives mirrored Hernandezs: His family was threatened by a drug cartel. We parted ways to be safe, the 62-year-old said. But God has always been with us.

Now he prays for an appointment that will allow him to enter the United States.

Early this year, the Biden administration launched an online appointment system as a recommended way for migrants to request asylum, though thousands cross the border illegally every day.

This is the precise time to preach the word of God, said pastor Albert Rivera, an evangelical who currently provides a roof and spiritual guidance for nearly 400 migrants in Agape, a nearby shelter.

According to Rivera, many migrants saw their children being murdered, suffered through the kidnapping of a family member, or lost everything to pay criminal extortion demands.

We have received women married to hitmen whose enemies have shot their homes and said: Ill kill you and your children, the pastor said.

His guidance provides comfort for some who feel hopeless while waiting for a better life.

Mariana Flores fled Guerrero, a Pacific Coast state, with her husband and 3-year-old son after organized criminals kidnapped her husband temporarily. She brought her faith with her, but said being at Agape has renewed it.

God did a miracle for us, the 25-year-old said. So even if we feel sad from time to time, attending services helps us forget and we can keep trying to move on.

Miguel Rayo, 47, traveled from the same Mexican state with just a few possessions, but keeps a Bible on his phone. I read it when I'm cold, when I'm in need. We want to be renewed and remain close to God," Rayo said.

Agape welcomes migrants of any faith or ideology, but everyone is encouraged to attend services on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Migrants also pray in small groups several days per week in their dormitories.

A few miles away, Casa del Migrante provides spiritual comfort in addition to a temporary home, daily meals, legal advice and mentorships that help migrants find jobs and schools for their kids. The shelter was established by the Catholic Scalabrinian Missionaries in 1987.

Every Wednesday afternoon, during one of the Masses celebrated by the Rev. Pat Murphy, an American priest, migrants are invited to participate by sharing their thoughts, petitions and concerns.

Its a lovely Mass, a time to gather and share, said Alma Ramirez, who started working as a volunteer a year ago and recently became a full-time worker at Casa Migrante.

The shelter used to receive only deported men from the U.S. but since 2019, when the surge of migrants increased, entire families and members from the LGBTQ+ community have been welcomed as well.

We currently have internally displaced people, Mexicans who left states in the South because they faced violence mainly from drug trafficking, Ramirez said.

Across the shelters entrance, a portrait depicting the Virgin Mary greets the newcomers.

There are migrants who approach the door and once we tell them, You can enter, they reply: I knew, since the moment I saw the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe, that all would be fine,' Ramirez said.

Both at Casa del Migrante and Agape, some migrants ask Murphy and Rivera to baptize them. Others request their company to pray for blessings. Many fear for the family members they left behind. Others hope for a good ending on their journey to the United States.

Open the doors for me, Lord, so that I can cross, Rivera suggests they say in prayer.

Imagine the experience of faith, Rivera said. Arriving at a place feeling broken, but then you pray to God, fill out your application, you get an appointment and thats how you arrive in the United States.

Thats something theyll never forget.

Americas reeling as flow of migrants reaches historic levels
RAFAH, Gaza Strip  The U.N. warned Wednesday that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory blockaded and devastated by Israeli airstrikes since Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel more than two weeks ago.

The warning came as hospitals in Gaza struggled to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources.

Health officials said the death toll soared as Israeli jets pounded Gaza. Workers pulled dead and wounded civilians, including many children, out of landscapes of rubble in cities across the territory.

Gaza's Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, said more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll.

The Israeli military accuses Hamas of operating among civilians. Gaza militants fired unrelenting rocket barrages into Israel since the conflict started.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decadeslong Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas.

The Gaza Health Ministry said more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel  mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gaza's population has been running out of food, water and medicine, too, under Israel's siege. About 1.4 million of Gaza's 2.3 million residents fled their homes, with almost half of them crowded into U.N. shelters.

In recent days, Israel let a small number of trucks with aid enter from Egypt but barred deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai said.

"Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? Do we bump clean water or do we send trucks to the borders?" she said. "It is an excruciating decision."

More than half of Gaza's primary health care facilities and about a third of its hospitals stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said.

At Gaza City's al-Shifa Hospital, the lack of medicine and clean water led to "alarming" infection rates, the group Doctors Without Borders said. Amputations are often required to prevent infection from spreading in the wounded, it said.

One surgeon with the group described amputating half the foot of a 9-year-old boy with slight sedation on a hallway floor as his mother and sister watched.

A strike Wednesday in the Nuseirat refugee camp killed the wife, son, daughter and grandson of one of Al Jazeera TV's chief correspondents, Wael Dahdouh. Footage aired on the Qatari based network showed the veteran journalist weeping over his son's body on a hospital floor.

"They take vengeance on us through our children?" he sobbed.

The conflict threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Hamas' surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

"We will get to the bottom of what happened," he said. "This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me."

U.S. President Joe Biden said that after the conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work toward a two-state solution. He also decried increasing attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, saying they must "stop now."

Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to "pouring gasoline" on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack.

Settler attacks have been part of swelling violence in the occupied West Bank, including clashes between fighters and Israeli troops and shootings of stone-throwing protesters. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed, health authorities said.

Misinformation about Israel-Hamas war floods social media; here are the facts Claim: Kim Jong Un blames Biden for war Claim: Turkish president threatens to intervene Claim: Israel confirms it bombed hospital Claim: Qatars emir threatens to cut off worlds natural gas supply Claim: BBC reports Ukraine provided weapons to Hamas Claim: Putin warns US to stay away from war
An 81-year-old Grand Island woman died in a car crash involving two vehicles on the eastern edge of the city on Thursday morning.

Shortly before 8 a.m., Hall County sheriffs deputies went to the crash that occurred at the U.S. Highway 30 and Capital Avenue intersection. A preliminary investigation determined a 2017 Dodge Ram pickup truck driven by a 17-year-girl had stopped at a stop sign and attempted to turn west onto Highway 30. Roberta Tipton, 81, was in the pickup as a passenger.

The pickup collided with an eastbound 2011 Peterbilt semitrailer truck being driven by 71-year-old Jerry Archer of Marquette, Nebraska.

The three were all taken to the CHI Health St. Francis hospital in Grand Island. Tipton was declared deceased at the hospital. Archer and the girl were injured.

The Hall County Sheriffs Office said Tipton and the girl were wearing seatbelts. The Sheriffs Office added Archer was not wearing a seatbelt.

An accident reconstruction team has been called in to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Do the right thing

I'd like to bring attention to Jim Pillen's comment about a Nebraska journalist. Pillen always touts keeping young people in the state of Nebraska. But yet he behaves like this to a young professional, regardless of her nationality, who resides here. I think he owes her an apology and should apologize on live TV.

I think he is angry because he knows he is in the wrong on high nitrate levels on his hog farms. Do the right thing, Jim. Apologize to this young Omaha professional. And watch what you say next time. You're a public official  act like one!

Kerry Hanson, Omaha

Nitrate levels on farms

Governor Pillen, in true MAGA style, has scapegoated the Chinese-born Nebraska journalist who wrote the Flatwater Free Press article that exposed unacceptable nitrate levels found on 16 of the hog farms Pillen owns. The governors shoot the messenger, race-baiting comment about the reporter arouses right-wing hate against the Chinese and left-wing indignation about the racist language, while completely ignoring the articles important and damning content.

Lets not be manipulated. Lets honor the maligned writer, Yanqi Xu, by calling Gov. Pillen to account for the excessive nitrates bleeding into water supplies from his farms, contributing to Nebraskas high incidence of health problems including thyroid disease, birth defects, and childhood cancer. At minimum, Nebraskans deserve to know locations and specific water supplies that could be damaged by nitrates from the Pillen farms (and any others with excess nitrates) in order to protect themselves and their families. Those who can afford it can buy bottled water or install home water filtration systems to avoid health risks, but lets address the root cause instead. Shouldnt any operation producing dangerous nitrate levels be held responsible for monitoring and controlling them as a condition for staying in business?

Gov. Pillen, how about it? You have 16 opportunities to show how it can be done. Act like a leader, not a racist name-caller.

Barbara W. Anderson, Omaha

A scary bunch

I'm seeing a bunch of witches, goblins and ghosts. Halloween? No, its the Republican Party and they are a scary bunch! Really, who wants to nominate a person as Speaker of the House who supported the insurrection against our Constitution and is an election denier? Republicans. Who wants to nominate a speaker who will get rid of Social Security and veterans benefits? Republicans. Who wants to nominate a speaker that would slash funding for education? Republicans. Who wants a speaker who does not have one piece of legislation to his name after 16 years in the House of Representatives? Republicans.

Really the Republican Party of today does not come close to their namesake. From their actions most of them do not understand what todays party stands for or believes in. From their spewings, its hard to delineate any common goals. Where is the Republican Party of Teddy Roosevelt, General Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan and the Bushes? R.I.P.

Barb Wagner, Omaha

House divided

Thank you, Omaha World-Herald, for your journalism on the article about the next Speaker of the House. I like that there was added information to some of the Associated Press content. It looks like there was a debacle to avoid the real issue: the budget. Speaker Pro Tempore Patrick McHenry would have been the obvious choice. Since the House is so divided, maybe we could put all Republicans to be representatives and all Democrats to be senators? Congress is already not what the Founding Fathers designed it to be.

Katrina Tomsen, Creighton, Neb.

See both sides

What has happened in Israel is horrible. Yet, if another country did to us what Israel has done to the Palestinians over the last 76 years: taking homes; land; sending thug settlers into the West Bank to illegally create Jewish cities; creating situations where Palestinians have no rights; slowly pushing Palestinians out of East Jerusalem  their section of the city  we would retaliate, too. The far-right government of Israel has brought this upon themselves. Many Jews in Israel have tried to stop the horrible treatment of Palestinians against a government that wont listen or stop until Palestinians are eliminated.

There are two sides to every conflict. It is important to see both.

Jim Krueger, Omaha

House in turmoil

On January 6, 2021, Donald Trump and his supporters weren't able to find a way to shut down Congress and prevent them from doing their jobs. In the fall of 2023, it seems that his supporters in Congress were finally able to find a way to do that.

John Walter, South Bend, Neb.

Governor should apologize

According to reports, Gov. Jim Pillen operates more than a dozen hog farms that have nitrate levels far above legal drinking water limits.

High nitrate levels in drinking water poses an immediate health threat. However, rather than address the issue of high nitrate levels at his facilities, Gov. Pillen took the low road and chose to make racist and xenophobic remarks about the reporter, Yanqi Xu, from Flatwater Free Press. Shooting the messenger rather than addressing the issues is a classic bully tactic, one adopted by hateful bullies throughout history. Pillen amplified his remarks by making them both racist and xenophobic.

Jim Pillens failure to acknowledge his words is appalling. Join us in appealing to the governor to address his remarks and apologize to Yanqi Xu.

Leslie Allen and Milton Ebesu, Omaha

Biden leads

Its a good thing President Biden is governing with leadership and determination. Because the Republican majority in the House of Representatives, with their pettiness and infighting, has made the all-important House impotent and laughable.

Larry Johnson, Omaha

Democracy for Israel

The usually prescribed resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian standoff is the vaunted two-state solution. Unlikely as it is, it wont work. Two small nations in a perpetual arms race, always on the brink of war and regularly in armed conflict, is no solution.

The best way to go is a one-state solution. That is, allow the Palestinians full civil rights, including the right to vote and stand for elective office. Right now the Palestinian minority in Israel is disenfranchised and oppressed. This is the situation Israel defends with its military, funded in part by an annual infusion of $3 billion from the U.S. The truth is, the Israel we spend lavishly on is not a democracy, except for Jews, an anomaly based on ethnic and religious identity in a world of modern secular nation states.

Military power cannot sustain this apartheid state. South Africa tried and failed. A nation divided must crumble or change. Lets help Israel change to a modern democratic state. We should assist Israel to transition to a full democracy by incorporating their Palestinian minority into civil society with full rights including the right to a social insurance card, work and travel without needing a permit, and service in the Israeli military.

Israel must take the risk of becoming a true democracy. If it persists as a state based on Jewish cultural and religious identity, it will not survive, for Israel must win every war  and it can lose only one and drag us in as it goes down.

Gary Heath, Davenport, Iowa

War rages on

I do not want my tax money going to Israel to be used to slaughter innocent Palestinian women and children. Jews were slaughtered in the Holocaust. Now Israel is doing the same to the Palestinians. What is wrong with humanity?

Joseph Anania, Omaha

Student protests

There are numerous high school and college students who are protesting in anti-Israel demonstrations, saying horrendous things. Arent these the same students for whom "safe spaces" were created in their schools? Arent these the students who have said that we need to accept everyone and respect and embrace differences? So what changed? Are they being paid to protest, like in other protests these past years? Hopefully they dont truly feel this way.

Anyone who is attacked without provocation needs to defend themselves  period.

So put your handkerchief away, Rep. Rashida Tlaib, and anyone else who is crying about Israel fighting back. Fortunately for Hamas, I believe Israel has restraint and will not do to them the things that were done to Israelis.

Linda Miller, Omaha

On ghost guns

I am a hobby machinist, and I like to know how things are made, so at one time I investigated "ghost guns" for curiosity's sake. I have no intentions of making one, and the laws and instructions are easily available on the internet. It's easy to run afoul of these laws, and anyone thinking about doing this should talk to a lawyer first. After they tell you not to do it, you can talk to the local sheriff, who will also tell you no. The ATF will want your home address after telling you no.

There is a morass of conflicting and often useless or weird regulations about making firearms for personal use. Build a machine gun? Illegal. Build a hand-cranked Gatling gun? Legal. Put an electric motor on it? Back to illegal.

What politicians call "ghost guns" are pistol and rifle receivers that a person can buy and do machining operations to have a device that all the other gun parts can be attached to to make the gun. Due to the high price, few people buy them, few people can finish them, and fewer still have the skills to do it safely. In firearms, your mistakes can kill you. If in the town of Omaha, 100 people are interested in doing this, maybe one person actually goes and does it successfully. I hardly see this as an impact on Omaha gun crime, let alone violent crime.

A more effective way to deter violent crime would be to take a look at actual statistics, figure out what happened, what weapon was used, how it was obtained, and legislate accordingly. But that would take a politician doing their job. Useless laws that affect almost no one, yet add to the burden of or actually hinder law enforcement, seem to be more of their speed.

Tyson Boellstorff, Omaha
About the Event

Devex will again be on the ground in Dubai for COP 28 to host a series of live media interviews, conversations, and collaborative workshops.

This years summit, Climate +, will bring together visionaries, change-makers, and thought leaders from across the globe to explore the interconnected relationship between climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals. With a focus on critical areas such as health, food, energy, and finance, Climate + aims to uncover solutions that drive climate action while promoting equitable, sustainable development.

While the official COP 28 will break for a day of rest, Climate + will be held at Warehouse Four, an event space in the trendy arts district of Dubai, Al Quoz. The day will include interviews with key leaders, panel discussions and debates with diverse stakeholders, and opportunities to collaborate and network with other leaders tackling climate and development challenges.

Devex will also host a series of exclusive, invite-only dinners and side events. Registering for the summit will include you in a list for consideration for these other, more intimate gatherings.

Register now to join us in person in Dubai or for the online broadcast!
What makes us different

Devex Talent Solutions is the boutique recruitment agency of the largest global development media platform

There are many recruitment agencies, but only one DTS. For over two decades, we have brought deep expertise in global development and an unmatched network to serve our mission-driven community.

DTS is particularly known for sourcing underrepresented talent  especially women and developing country nationals, including for fragile and conflict affected settings.

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BLOOMINGTON  A 23-year-old Bloomington man was sentenced Tuesday to three years in prison on a burglary charge from 2021.

Charles J. Tankson pleaded guilty in August to one count of burglary, a Class 2 felony.

Tankson was also charged in separate case from 2021 with burglary, theft and two counts of unlawful use of a debit card, but those charges were dismissed and not pursued by the prosecution.

According to court documents, Tankson was accused of entering the FixIt Mobile Repair, 1102 N. Hershey Road, in Bloomington, on Dec. 14, 2021, with the intent to commit a theft.

During a sentencing hearing Tuesday, Assistant States Attorney Don Rood said Tankson and two others smashed the display cases at the store and walked off with approximately $5,000 worth of merchandise.

Although his only previous adult offense was a 2019 domestic battery, Rood said Tankson had an extensive criminal history as a juvenile with multiple offenses between 2014 and 2017 including attempted burglary, robbery, aggravated battery of a peace officer and resisting a peace officer.

We have about a decade of fairly consistent offenses and some very serious offenses committed with that timeframe, Rood said. Its the states position that the serious nature of this case, the prior offenses and need to deter other similarly situated individuals that a sentence to the Department of Corrections is appropriate in this matter.

John Bussan, who is contracted by the McLean County Public Defenders Office, said a community-based sentence of probation would be more appropriate since this was Tanksons first felony as an adult.

Bussan said Tankson has been working as a closing manager at a local restaurant, and since his arrest, he has recognized mental health and substance abuse issues and how they have contributed to his criminal history.

Tankson plans to seek treatment while in custody, Bussan said.

The attorney also noted co-defendant Bobby Q. Williams also pleaded guilty to one count of burglary in this incident and was given a probation sentence.

I am going to argue that the court has to give (Tankson) a chance. If he violates that he can get blasted on resentencing, but I submit to you that he has to have a chance at probation on his first offense, Bussan said. He has proven himself for the last six months and ... he has to have a chance on a community-based sentence in this case.

Judge Jason Chambers sentenced Tankson to three years in the Illinois Department of Corrections followed by one year of mandatory supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution and other fines. Tankson has credit for 137 days served in McLean County jail.

Chambers said a big factor for his decision was whether Tankson could comply with the conditions of probation, but his prior criminal history suggests he cannot.

Tankson has a record of more than 12 cases in which probation was revoked, a history of non-compliance with recommended mental health and substance abuse treatment and a recent history of disobeying rules and fighting with other inmates while in custody at the jail, Chambers said.

I dont question that you have substance abuse issues that need to be addressed but this is kind of a double edged sword for you here because as much as I think you need treatment I also have a history here where you failed to attend scheduled appointments, Chambers said. I think the community based sentence, based on all the circumstances here, would deprecate the seriousness of the offense.
BLOOMINGTON  The Illinois Department of Transportation will hold a public meeting from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 6, in the Council Chambers at the Government Center, 115 E. Washington St., Bloomington.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss improvements of U.S. 51 from south of Olive Street in Bloomington to north of Gregory and Bowles streets in Normal.

Anyone interested in the project is welcome to attend.

The meeting will be informal, with project displays and other information available for viewing. IDOT representatives will be available to explain the project, answer questions and record comments from attendees, including bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, parking impacts and potentially affected property owners.

Call 217-465-4181 for accommodations or more information.

Families of all kinds delight at Bloomington "DiverCITY" event WELCOMING WEEK 091823-blm-loc-2divercity.JPG 091823-blm-loc-3divercity.JPG
(Photo : NASA/Arizona State University via Getty Images)

Scientists discovered the hidden molten layer inside Mars after studying seismic wave data produced by a meteorite impact.

Scientists have discovered a hidden molten layer within Mars' interior by studying a meteorite impact that sent out seismic waves.

The robotic lander InSight, has been used to study the red planet's insides and has listened to enough marsquakes to develop a picture of the layer-cake nature of the planet's interior. While the crust and mantle were not anything strange, the core was found to be too large and not very dense for such a small planet.

Mars' Hidden Molten Layer

This caused some researchers to be skeptical that the core measurement was inaccurate. In a statement, a geophysicist at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, Amid Khan, said they may have missed out on something crucial to understanding the planet's interior.

Researchers re-evaluated InSight's seismic record in two studies published on Wednesday in the journal Nature. The two teams concluded that the red planet's core was much more similar to our planet's heavy metal heart than scientists have previously suspected, as per the New York Times.

The initial higher-size estimate was only a result of an undetected 90-to-125-mile-deep ocean of molten rock, which made the underlying core seem bigger than it was. However, the deep sea of magma, hidden below Mars' solid mantle and kept molten by radioactive elements, is exotic.

Khan said that the hidden molten layer does not exist on Earth and that its presence may require scientists to rethink the red planet's chaotic evolution. Scientists have spent more than a century studying our planet's geologic layers using the illuminating power of quake-made seismic waves.

InSight landed on Mars in November 2018 and was sent to the red planet to determine whether or not Mars' viscera were similar. However, studying Mars using only a single seismometer proved quite difficult for astronomers as InSight's instruments could only detect a few modest temblors.

Read Also: India to Launch Test Flight of Crew Capsule Ahead of Manned Space Mission

Assistance from Meteorite Impact

However, the meteorite impact on the other side of the red planet from where NASA's spacecraft was sitting provided new clues about Mars' interior. According to Reuters, waves that are generated by quakes vary in speed and shape when traveling through different materials inside a planet.

The meteorite impact that assisted scientists in their study occurred in a Martian highland region known as Tempe Terra. The Sept. 18, 2021, incident triggered a magnitude 4.2 quake and left a crater that was roughly 425 feet wide.

Khan said that the importance of the far-side impact was to produce seismic waves that traveled through the deep interior of the red planet, including its core. They have previously been unable to observe any seismic waves that traveled that far into Mars' interior.

The new observation of the red planet's interior could massively change how scientists approach the evolution of rocky planets. It could even tell experts how Mars lost its magnetic field roughly 4 billion years ago. There is also the possibility that the core retained too much heat to maintain a magnetic dynamo, said ArsTechnica.

Related Article: Apollo 17 Rock Sample's Crystallization Offers More Precise Age of Moon

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
BLOOMINGTON  At least 100 students, staff and activists gathered in front of Illinois Wesleyan University's State Farm Hall on Wednesday in support of Palestinians and an immediate ceasefire in the hostilities triggered by the Hamas attacks on Israel earlier this month.

Farah Bassyouni, an international IWU student from Cairo, Egypt, who led the rally, said it is not antisemitic or harmful to support Palestinians, and that supporters have many of the same values and goals as the Jewish community.

"Supporting Palestine is resisting genocide and ethnic cleansing that has been happening for over 70 years," Bassyouni said. "And coming together as a community to grieve and call for the liberation of Palestine is advocacy work that needs to be done."

Bassyouni was joined by dozens of students, many of whom were holding signs saying "Free Palestine," "Stop war crimes on Gaza" and "Where is the humanity?"

Imam Saad Palwala of the Islamic Center of McLean County said you don't have to be a Muslim to stand with Palestinians. Instead, you just have to be human.

"It's not about religion, it's not about Christianity or Islam, (because) we are brothers and we have to stand here today as brothers and sisters together and fight this genocide," he said.

Palwala also urged attendees to educate themselves on Israeli-Palestinian history.

Janna Alshabah, founder of Free Palestine BloNo, said when both major political parties in the U.S. are siding with violence inflicted on civilians, there exists a big problem, and people must speak out to save the Palestinians.

"You came here today because you believe in human rights (and) you do not believe in genocide," Alshabah said.

After the recital of select poetry, attendees marched across the campus Quad chanting "Free, free Palestine" and "From the river to the sea" before meeting back at State Farm Hall.

"Let us not be overcome by the darkness of evil nor the slumber of indifference that turns human beings into hashtags and neighbors into enemies," Palwala said.

High school students and other activists rally 'Free Palestine' vigil RAISING AWARENESS 052922-blm-loc-2palestine 052922-blm-loc-3palestine
CHICAGO  A man accused of pepper spraying pro-Palestinian protesters who gathered near an Israel solidarity rally over the weekend has been charged with hate crimes and aggravated battery, prosecutors said Wednesday.

Zevulen Ebert, 33, of Skokie, is charged with two felony counts of aggravated battery and two felony hate crime charges, according to Cook County State's Attorney Kim Foxx's office. Pepper spray can irritate the eyes and cause a burning sensation and difficulty breathing.

The confrontation broke out as about 1,000 people were gathered Sunday evening at a banquet hall in a northern Chicago suburb to show solidarity with Israel, and several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators rallied outside, according to police and event organizers.

The pro-Palestinian protest was wrapping up when the sound of a gunshot cracked through the air, and then a few minutes later, a man pepper sprayed attendees, said organizer Hatem Abudayyeh of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network. "People were running and screaming and very, very afraid," Abudayyeh said. "These charges are good news."

Ebert appeared in court Wednesday and was freed with conditions by Judge Anthony Calabrese. Prosecutors did not ask for him to be detained ahead of a trial.

Under a recent change in Illinois law, state courts can no longer require cash bail as a condition of pretrial release. Judges must assess the risk of releasing defendants charged with certain serious crimes. Ebert was deemed to be low-risk.

A Chicago police officer and two other people sustained minor injuries from being pepper sprayed by an attendee, according to police in Skokie, where the protest took place.

Since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas earlier this month, a fatal stabbing of a Palestinian-American child in Illinois, a gun pointed at protesters in Pennsylvania, vandalism at synagogues and harassment of staff at a Palestinian restaurant all are raising fears that the war is sparking violence in the United States and spiking crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities.

Ebert's lawyer, Hal Garfinkel, told The Associated Press by phone Wednesday that he and his client are "extraordinarily happy" that prosecutors "made the prudent choice" not to pursue pretrial detention, a decision he says shows "that they'll have a very difficult time meeting their burden of 'beyond a reasonable doubt' when we go to court."

Prosecutors alleged that Ebert was not attacked or threatened when  based on his perception of their ancestry  he targeted the protesters with pepper spray, accused Palestinians of killing babies, and made obscene middle finger gestures to Palestinian supporters.

Prosecutors in Cook County earlier this week declined to file charges against another man who fired a gun during the protest. Officials determined that the man "acted in self-defense upon being surrounded by a crowd and attacked by some of those individuals," said a statement released by Foxx's office on Monday.

Abudayyeh called it a "travesty of justice" that the man who shot the gun was not charged, and said he is concerned about the safety of Palestinian communities across the country.

"We're hearing all kinds of horror stories from people in schools, and in workplaces, and in grocery stores, and in the neighborhoods," said Abudayyeh, who is Palestinian American. "I am super concerned for my kid."

The banquet hall event was organized by the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Los Angeles-based Jewish human rights group.

Alison Pure-Slovin, director of the group's Midwest regional office, said on Wednesday that the organization would have no comment on the hate crime charges until law enforcement finishes their investigation.

Photos: Pritzker Military Archives Center
SPRINGFIELD  A man wanted in connection with a slaying in Chicago has been arrested following the shooting of an Illinois state trooper in Springfield.

The trooper was shot in the leg about 10:45 p.m. Tuesday following an "interaction" with the 37-year-old Chicago man, state police said.

The man ran from the shooting scene, but was captured about 2 a.m. Wednesday during a search by officers from multiple law enforcement agencies. The trooper was taken to a hospital, and his condition was not released.

State police and Chicago police did not provide details of the Chicago slaying, but relatives of Adrianna Lopez told WLS-TV and the Chicago Sun-Times that the suspect in the woman's fatal shooting Sunday night had been arrested.

Lopez, 37, was shot outside her home in Chicago's Garfield Ridge neighborhood. Chicago police had said she was shot at least 10 times after being approached by a man she knew who was in a dark-colored SUV.

Lopez taught special education at an elementary school in the neighborhood of Brighton Park.

Photos: Chicago Mayor-elect Brandon Johnson Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Election 2023 Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2023 Brandon Johnson - 2023 Brandon Johnson - File Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022 Brandon Johnson - 2022
This dangerous situation in the Middle East should jar the Biden White House into appreciating the need to strengthen border security. Unfortunately, the president continues to play games.

Last weekend, The Associated Press reported that President Joe Biden was hoping to persuade Republicans to support more aid for Ukraine by tying the issue to the U.S.-Mexico border. After nearly three years of tolerating a porous southern border, Biden now proposes spending $14 billion to beef up security there as part of a $106 billion package that includes more money for Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression.

Logrolling  the practice of exchanging political favors  has a long history in Congress, of course. But this is no time to be cavalier about border policy. Biden needs to set aside these border funds regardless of what happens to Ukraine funding.

More than 3.8 million people have illegally crossed our southern border since the president took office in January 2021, according to the New York Post, and nearly half of them slipped into the country illegally and were never caught. Some reports put the number as high as 5 million.

Yet the White House has treated this issue as if its a fiction created by right-wing xenophobes. In fact, concern about the administrations indifference to the influx of migrants on our border with Mexico is widespread.

In a recent Fox News poll, 71% of those surveyed disapproved of the presidents handling of border security, with even a majority of Democrats and Biden voters decrying the status quo.

The issue has become a political headache for the Biden administration, Politico reports, which has faced criticism from Democratic state and local officials over the federal governments seeming inaction in the face of the crisis.

Addressing this problem becomes even more imperative given the brazen terror attacks on Israel.

A memo obtained by the Daily Caller reveals that the Customs and Border Protection Intelligence Division is warning that individuals inspired by, or reacting to, the current Israel-Hamas conflict may try to travel to or from the areas of hostility in the Middle East via circuitous transit across the Southwest border.

This is an open acknowledgment that, absent more aggressive efforts to control illegal entries, the country faces potential risk. Have any terrorists already slipped through thanks to Bidens indifferent approach?

Its past time the Biden administration acknowledged its failures at the border and got serious about imposing policies that discourage illegal crossings. Unfortunately, the presidents effort to link additional border security funding to Ukraine aid  in the wake of the gruesome terror attacks in Israel  indicates he continues to fail the American people on this important issue.
If my editors emailed a sign-up sheet soliciting volunteers to go overseas to cover the war in Israel, I wouldnt even click the link.

I have zero interest in being a war correspondent.

But when theyve asked me to jump on a plane and head for the front lines, Ive always said yes. Why? Because in this business, thats the right answer.

It was that twisted logic that put me on the ground in three different battlefields  Angola, Somalia and Iraq.

And while I never had much love for the military, I gained enormous respect for the soldiers, even if they couldnt always tell me what they were fighting for.

Now, two wars are waging on the other side of the world, one in Ukraine and a new one in Israel, where a hospital was blown up and little kids have been kidnapped by murderous terrorists.

President Joe Biden went to Israel recently to express Americas unwavering support, and on his return he renewed his commitment to keeping U.S. troops out of both conflicts.

Instead, Biden asked Congress for billions of dollars in military support for both Israel and Ukraine, which he said were vital for Americas national security.

History has taught us when terrorists dont pay a price for their terror, when dictators dont pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos and death and more destruction, he said in a rare Oval Office address. They keep going. And the cost and the threat to America and the world keep rising.

Biden asked Congress for $105 billion, including $60 billion for Ukraine, much of which would replenish U.S. weapons stockpiles provided earlier.

The request also includes $14 billion for Israel.

The rest of the money sought would go toward unspecified humanitarian efforts, U.S.-Mexico border management and fentanyl trafficking  a renewed war on drugs, as it were.

And while Biden should be applauded for doing everything possible to keep American soldiers out of harms way, a disturbing air of moral superiority goes along with this approach to war.

Biden told 60 Minutes he was confident that Israel would act in accordance with the laws of war, as if such a thing has ever existed in the history of violent conflict.

Exactly what law is it that allows the U.S. to wage war on two separate battlefields without getting its own hands dirty?

Almost as disturbing as the battles on the ground abroad is the war of rhetoric on social media and in American streets -- hate speech that has laid landmines for antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Pro-Israeli protesters are saying Palestinians are evil.

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators are saying Israelis are wicked.

And the mask-wearing pro-Hamas demonstrators are shamelessly celebrating, saying Israel got what it deserved.

But where are the real protesters, the righteous ones, who say war itself is wrong? Where are they?

Both sides in both battles will start claiming victory in wars no one can win. How can anybody say they won when a 6-year-old boy half a world away from the fighting is killed?

Wadea Al-Fayoume, a Palestinian-American boy, was stabbed 26 times by his suburban Chicago landlord who was angry at the childs family over the events in Israel.

The little boy was not at war.

Israel and Palestinians equally deserve to live in safety, dignity and peace, Biden said in his address before calling Wadeas family.

To all you hurting, I want you to know I see you. You belong. And I want to say this to you. Youre all Americans.
Peter Hotez, a vaccine scientist from Baylor College of Medicine, has been receiving a stream of hate mail. Much of it is unhinged, paranoid and threatening. Hes not alone  other prominent figures in public health have gotten hateful messages and death threats, especially since the beginning of the pandemic.

He describes the abuse in his new book, The Deadly Rise of Anti-science  A Scientists Warning. And he argues that an estimated 200,000 people in the U.S. who died from COVID probably would have survived if they hadnt refused to get free, easily accessible vaccines.

Hes right about that, but throwing around the anti-science label isnt helping bridge any divides. Take any scientific issue that involves political choices, from public health to climate change: All sides claim to be basing their concerns in science.

For example, further into the book, Hotez applies that anti-science label to people who opposed other mitigations like extended school and business closures and mask mandates. Thats too bad. Reasonable people can argue against the tradeoffs required by some of these non-pharmaceutical interventions.

The U.S. lost more people to this virus than most other developed countries where such restrictions and mandates were looser  suggesting much of what we asked people to do didnt help. What we learn from our mistakes could help us continue to fight this still-circulating disease and do better with the next public health crisis.

When I spoke to Hotez on the phone, he said one of the main messages he wants to convey is that much anti-vaccine rhetoric wasnt just random junk on the internet but part of a coordinated, politically motivated effort  the thrust of which was that theyll first force you to get vaccines, then theyll take away your guns and Bibles. And conservative politicians and media outlets encouraged irrational paranoia about the vaccines.

The effect of that was deadly  as seen in statistics showing significantly more deaths in the least vaccinated states once the shots became widely available. But of course, there is no movement that calls itself anti-science. There are movements where people openly proclaim themselves anti-nuclear or anti-GMO or anti-abortion, but the term anti-science is an insult. Its the kind of label used to cast aspersions on enemies and deride them as stupid.

And much of what the public heard from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the news media or their local governments was not scientific information but commands  dont go to the beach, stay six feet from other people, wear a mask every time you leave your house.

In response to Hotezs argument, risk communication expert Peter Sandman said he appreciates his concern over those 200,000 tragic deaths. But he thinks public health carries some of the blame for fumbling public trust.

The natural impulse of public health professionals to blame their critics for the publics increased mistrust isnt just mistaken, he says, It is self-defeating. It keeps public health people from assessing what they said and did during the pandemic that aroused that mistrust, apologizing for these misstatements and misbehaviors, and figuring out how to do better going forward.

There is a political component to the divide over vaccines, he agrees, but he also listed a number of ways public health efforts alienated conservatives: Delaying the vaccine approval until after Election Day, deferring to teachers unions on keeping kids out of school, and prioritizing health over all other values  especially over freedom, which public health officials widely denigrated as a value not even worth considering.

Barouch Fischhoff, a Carnegie Melon University social scientist specializing in risk communication, said he sees a snowballing communication problem. People in public health communicated poorly, then they blamed the audience, he said. Then these dedicated scientists and health officials become disrespectful and aggressive, which further alienates parts of the public.

He was on a 2020 National Academies of Sciences Medicine and Engineering committee and his contribution was to find ways to communicate facts and uncertainties  science  in a way thats comprehensible and accessible. Then you trust people to make their own decisions.

He said that public health officials werent transparent about their goals or the evidence. Thats still a problem, especially with the ongoing booster campaigns. Is the goal to reduce transmission? Is the goal to protect against death? Whats the evidence a broad, annual booster campaign will achieve those goals? Its hard to get clear answers.

Theres no place to go to get facts and be treated as an adult, he said. People are stuck having to choose who to trust  and they all claim to be using science.

So do the extreme hate mailers on the other side. Doctors and scientists with moderate views have told me theyve gotten paranoid messages and even death threats from people who wanted longer lockdowns, permanent mask mandates and mandatory booster shots.

Scientists shouldnt have to rely on blind trust; they can offer a logical, evidence-based argument for their claims. They have to express uncertainty, because thats part of science, but honesty about what you dont yet know can help build trust over the long term. And despite the wonders of modern science, infectious disease is going to remain a very long-term problem.

So please, lets retire the term anti-science. Its not persuading anyone on the other side.
Zoomlion Foundation has observed this year's Global Hand Washing Day with 3000 Zoomkids Club members at Nii Sowah Din Cluster of Schools in Adentan Municipality of Accra.



As part of the activities to mark the day, GIZ, Appointed Times Screen Printing Limited and other partners provided free health screening for the 3000 Zoomkids and free NHIS enrolment for an additional 2000 Zoomkids and teaching staff.



The children were screened for malaria, eye, nose, and blood sugar, eye, while the adults were also screened for breast cancer.



Some of the school children were also registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme, while others had their membership renewed.



The Communications and Corporate Affairs Director of Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah, noted that the objective of Global Handwashing Day is to get the children to know the need to regularly wash their hands while also encouraging their mates and family members to do the same.



"Helping the children to imbibe such good habits will greatly impact their lives which will have a ripple effect on the country's economic and health budgets," she stressed.



Alluding to the theme "Clean hands are within reach" she said, "We are here to help them to remember that handwashing is within reach".



She added that every year, the Zoomkids join international and national partners to celebrate the Global Hand Washing Day.



The Public Relations Manager of the Adenta Municipal Education Directorate, Gloria Mensah, explained that the motive for partnering with the Zoomlion Foundation is to promote hand washing education for the school children in the municipality.



She commended Zoomlion Foundation for providing handwashing facilities to the schools within the municipality.



She advised the school children to take handwashing very seriously and also educate their siblings at home on good environmental practices.



The National Coordinator for Zoomlion Foundation, Thomas Narh Korley, intimated that with the dangers imposed by infectious diseases, it was imperative to take precautions and preventive measures and not wait for the worst to happen before doing what is right.



"Infectious diseases are becoming an issue all over the world, we need to take precautions and preventive measures, we shouldn't wait till a situation like Coronavirus before telling the children to wash their hands," he explained.



"We believe that if the children know how to protect themselves when they grow up, we wouldn't have to spend so many resources for vaccines to treat sickness because they will already be taking precautions daily, he observed.



The Coordinator hinted that all the schools involved in the project will receive logistical support to promote good environmental practices.



According to Korley, the Zoomlion Foundation together with the partners have planned a month-long activities to observe the Global Hand Washing Day. Some of the activities include talk shows, drama shows, roadshows, health screening, NHIS registration and demonstration of handwashing.



"We want to protect their health so they can stay in school and learn and become productive citizens, he remarked.



The partners include GES, GIZ, Appointed Time printers, Coca-Cola, Blueskies, Kasapreko, Golden Exotics Limited, NHIA and Ghan Health Service.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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In 1931, Club Lager was founded with a vision to bring Ghanaians together, to refresh the Ghanaian spirit. Today, Club Lager stands as a testament to the enduring strength of our community. We recognize the challenges faced by Ghanaians, but some things should never be compromised - the precious moments spent with our friends, our 'Chales.'



Money cannot buy the love, laughter, and support that we share with our Chales over a chilled bottle of Club Lager.



Ghanaians are known for their resilience. In the face of difficulties, we find solace in the unwavering support of our family and friends. It's this support system that defines us as a nation. Today, Club Lager, a proud product of Accra Brewery PLC (ABL), is excited to honor and celebrate this incredible support system.



Introducing the "Cheers to Chales" Initiative



Club Lager launched the "Cheers to Chales" first of its kind initiative at De-Mod North Kaneshie to honour our Chales' constant support. There was plenty of beer, food, and music from a live band, as well as indigenous act Wutah to serenade the Chales. Club Lager officially unveiled the opportunity to win 10,000 Ghana Cedis for your Chales. This initiative is a heartfelt way to give back to the community that has made Club Lager a beloved household name.



The Brand Manager, Emmanuella Odametey also spoke about the unique neck label designs with motivational words created specially in honour of the Chales as part of the campaign. She went further to urge the Chales to look for one of these labels when drinking Ghanaians favourite Club Beer, Chale No Yawa, Chale You Do All, Chale We Move, Chale Vim, or Chale Cheers and celebrate your Chales.



How to Participate



Participating in the "Cheers to Chales" initiative is easy. Simply dial *899*9# and follow the prompt.



Chale, your chance to win 10,000 Cedis for your Chales is just a Club Bottle away.



Weekly Draw on TV3



Club Lager will select 20 random winners weekly through a live draw, which will be aired on TV3 at 8pm on Fridays. This draw ensures transparency and excitement for all participants.





Redemption Information



For the lucky winners, redemption of the 10,000 Ghana Cedis prize will be at the premises of Accra Brewery PLC, located at Graphic Road. This provides an opportunity for winners to visit and experience the heart of where Club Lager is made. Winners must provide their national ID Cards for redemption.



For more information, visit our website at [www.clublager.com] or follow us on @ClubLager across all social media.



For inquiries, please contact Customer Care contact information Centre  0800 433 433 WhatsApp 030 293 9905 and email [email protected]

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Inspector-General of Police Dr George Akuffo Dampare has assured Ghanaians in and out of the country that this years Christmas will be incident-free as the police are ready to protect them and their belongings.



The Police Chief is particularly urging Ghanaians in the diaspora and other nationals to make Ghana their destination of choice as they will be fully protected.



We want to assure you that this Christmas will be awesome. I assure you that the police will give you a double overdose of security.



So Ghana is ready, to all the tourists I want to assure you that Ghana is ready, the police is ready, come and enjoy our hospitality. We will protect you and all your belongings, the IGP said at a meeting with the leadership of the TUC at the Police Headquarters on Wednesday.



The meeting was part of the police administrations ongoing engagement with key stakeholders as part of security preparations ahead of the yuletide.



On Monday, the IGP and the police management board met with some Muslim leaders while on Tuesday the team engaged members of the Ghana Private Roads Transport Union and members of the Creative arts industry respectively.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Minister for Works and Housing, and Member of Parliament for Bantama constituency, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye has been awarded 2023 Ghana's Best Minister for Infrastructure Development.



The Minister received this award yesterday, 25th October, 2023 at the Chamber of Construction 2023 Awards for Industrial Players, held in Accra.



Speaking at the event, Hon. Asenso-Boakye

assured the Chamber of Construction governments unwavering commitment to prioritizing infrastructure development in the country.



According to him, government is working on fostering an enabling environment for private sector investment.



Mr. Asenso-Boakye noted that the private sector brings not only financial resources but also, innovation, expertise, efficiency vital for a successful projects implementation.



The Works and Housing Minister, however, admitted that ''despite being a commonly employed financing mechanism, PPPs still represent an evolving concept in the Sub-Saharan Africa, largely due to persistent obstacles hindering their successful execution''



He disclosed that it is for this reason, in the year 2020, government of Ghana passed Public Private Partnership Act (Act 1039) to streamline regulations, reduce bureaucracy and improve government framework to foster confidence for the private sector and attract the necessary capital for infrastructure projects.



Mr. Francis Asenso-Boakye said he was aware of the challenges encountered by the contractors, and gave the assurance he was committed to addresing them.



''As the Minister responsible for the construction sector, I want to express my awareness of the difficulties contractors are encountering, particularly, concerning delayed payments. I want to assure you that I am committed to addressing these payment issues to the best of my abilities'', Hon. Asenso-Boakye stated.



He expressed appreciation to the Chamber of Construction for recognising his efforts and crowning him the 2023 Ghana's Best Minister for Infrastructure Development.



He stressed the award would be an addendum to the various factors motivating him to do his best for the country as the Works and Housing Minister.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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A pro-Palestine man in California threatened a Jewish family after breaking into their home. The criminal was arrested on Wednesday, Oct. 25, after attempting to break into a Studio City home.

Law enforcement authorities said that the incident was possibly a hate crime since the man was yelling "free Palestine" repeatedly while threatening to kill the homeowners.

Pro-Palestine Man Threatens Jewish Family After Breaking Into Their Home

According to Fox News' latest report, the Los Angeles Police Department was alerted at around 5:30 a.m. after receiving a call saying that a man broke into a home.

Victims told the cops that they were hiding in a room with their four children while the man was inside their residence. The frightened Jewish family made a second call to tell LAPD authorities that the man was threatening to kill them.

They added that the suspect wanted to do this because they were Jewish. Reports stated that this could really be the case since the family had mezuzahs, which were parchment pieces inscribed with Hebrew verses from Torah.

Luckily, the LAPD arrived just in time before the criminal was able to do what he was planning against the Jewish family. Police responders said that when they arrested the man, he was under the influence of drugs.

"Free Palestine, free Palestine, free Palestine," said the suspect while he was being arrested by the police officials.

Read Also: Sikh Man, 66, Beaten to Death in Brutal Attack in New York; Mayor Eric Adams Condemns Incident

LA Mayor Condemns Pro-Palestine Man's Action

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the man's action, saying that hate crimes have no place in the city.

"The vile act of hate that took place this morning has no place in our City," said Bass via Los Angeles Times.

"In the wake of the terror and violence inflicted over the previous weeks, this is one of the worst fears of Jewish families across our country," she added.

The Los Angeles mayor further stated that as the Israel-Hamas war worsens, hatred is also "spilling" across the threshold.

Bass said that this is destroying the sense of sanctuary and safety in a home.

She added that Los Angeles City remains steadfast in support of Jewish people, promising that they will not cower to hate crimes.

Related Article: Las Vegas: 2 Teenage Suspects in Hit-And-Run Killing of Cyclist Seen Smiling, Laughing in Court

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In a bold move towards promoting gender equality and empowerment, Stanbic Bank Ghana has set a remarkable precedent with the launch of the Stanbic Ladies Forum, paving the way for a brighter and more inclusive future for women in the bank. The launch, which took place at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra was attended by staff of the bank and representatives from the Standard Bank Group.



Doreen Iliasu Head, Legal and Governance at Stanbic Bank Ghana, who also doubles as the Executive Sponsor of the Stanbic Ladies Forum (Blue Fusion) explained the purpose for establishing the Forum. She said



There is evidence that companies with women executives are 30 per cent more likely to outperform competition. Women leaders have been found statistically to have a higher engagement with their staff and to be more supportive and that is why initiatives such as these are important. The Stanbic Bank Ghana Ladies Forum is dedicated to fostering the growth, development and leadership of women in the bank; there is evidence that women who have a circle progress faster in the corporate world.



The Stanbic Ladies Forum received endorsement from Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank Ghana, Kwamina Asomaning, who mentioned that the Forum is an expression of the banks commitment to the cause of gender equality. Mr. Asomaning shared that  the Standard Bank Group embarked on a transformative journey 6years ago, pledging its unwavering commitment to the cause of gender equality. This commitment led to the birth of the Standard Bank Groups flagship programme, the Ignite Leadership Programme, of which about 75 remarkable women leaders within Stanbic Bank Ghana benefitted.



He continued to state that The Stanbic Ladies Forum is an extension of a commitment to fostering an environment where women can continue to excel and lead in every facet of our organization. I am excited to be part of a movement that will not only respond to the evolving dynamics of our workplace but also ensure that the right things are in place to help women achieve their full potential here at the bank. It is an opportunity for women leaders in the bank to act as beacons, guiding and supporting their fellow colleagues.



The Stanbic Bank Ladies Forum received solidarity messages from women leaders in Ghana and across the Standard Bank Group. They include Elsie Addo Awadzi, the Second Deputy Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Funeka Montjane, Chief Executive Officer of Private and Personal Banking, Standard Bank Group and Nkiru Olumide-Ojo, Head, Brand and Marketing, Africa Regions, Standard Bank Group.



Funeka Montjane congratulated the leadership of Stanbic Bank Ghana for recognizing the importance of the Ladies Forum. She said the Forum is ultra critical to us delivering our objectives as a business. There are a couple of roles that women ultimately do not break through; I am quite passionate about unpacking that and that is going to be a key focus for me in 2024



She further implored all to be patient to maximise the benefits of teamwork and the unity terrain system of trees, take advantage of any opportunity to bring in/ appoint role models in order to give other women permission to know they can also go for it, and always be prepared. She also expressed excitement at the growth of Anakazi in Zambia, Dada in Kenya and the zeal to grow women focused proposition across the continent.



The launch of Blue Fusion in Ghana does not only signify the creation of a safe space for women to share experiences, insights, and aspirations but also marks a significant step towards enhancing corporate culture. It is expected to spark constructive transformation through the creation of a supportive network, offering women the chance to partake in dialogues, skill-enhancement workshops, mentorship connections, and career advancement prospects.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Iddi Muhayu-Deen, a former General Secretary of the National Union of Ghana Students (NUGS), and a Press Aide to the NPP General Secretary, was, on Friday, October 20, 2023, called to the Bar at the 60th Call to the Bar ceremony held at the Accra International Conference Centre.



The event was organized by the General Legal Council and chaired by Her Ladyship the Chief Justice, Justice Getrude Torkonoo, to enrol some one thousand and ninety-seven lawyers (1,097) who have attained the necessary standards of proficiency in the law and obtained adequate practical experience in the law.



Prior to reading law, Iddi was a professional teacher with the Ghana Education Service after obtaining the necessary qualifying certificates from the Tamale College of Education and the University of Education Winneba, Kumasi Campus, now, AAMUSTED, where he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology Education. He also holds a Diploma in Accounting and Business, ACCA-UK.



Iddi left the Ghana Education Service in 2017 and enrolled at the Faculty of Law, GIMPA, for an LLB degree programme, and then proceeded to the Ghana School of Law in 2021 to pursue the Professional Law Course, graduating in October 2023.



In a facebook post on 21st October, 2023, i.e. a day after the Call, Iddi, a prolific writer and columnist in some Ghanaian Dailies and online news portals, thanked the Vice President of the Republic, H.E. Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for sponsoring his legal education. He also disclosed that he is the first lawyer in his family, and indeed, in the whole of Kete-Krachi Zongo, where he hails from.



Iddi Muhayu-Deen has been at the NPP headquarters specifically at the Office of the General Secretary, as a Press Aide, since 2017. He worked closely with the immediate past General Secretary, John Boadu, and currently with Justin Frimpong Kodua (JFK), the NPPs Chief Scribe.



Iddi also served as a Member and Secretary to several committees of the Party, including the National Parliamentary Vetting Committee-(2020); Secretary to the NPP Parliamentary Candidates Verification Committee for election 2020 chaired by Lawyer Frank Davies; Secretary to the National Appeals Committee (2021) chaired by Hon. Dan Botwe; and Secretary to the Committee that drafted the NPPs Code of Conduct for Presidential primaries in 2021 chaired by Lawyer Frank Davies.



He is currently serving as the Secretary to the NPP Constitution Review Committee, which is being chaired by Hon Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Member of Parliament for Effutu Constituency and current Deputy Majority Leader in Parliament.



Other notable personalities that were called to the Bar at the 60th enrolment ceremony included Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister for Foreign Affairs; Sammi Awuku, the Director-General of NLA; Hon. Ekow Vincent Assafuah, MP for Old Tafo; Charles Owusu, CEO of Petroleum Hub Development Corporation; Zelia Amsat Osman, Aide to the Second Lady, H.E Samira Bawumia; and Ms. Sandra Frimpong (aka Maame Broni), a Media Personality.

Source: Peacefmonline









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The Majority in Parliament has denied assertions by the Minority counterpart that the government intends to liquidate the National Investment Bank (NIB) owing to insolvency and poor corporate governance.



Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee of Parliament, Isaac Adongo, who made the allegations, said the government was colluding with the Bank of Ghana to merge the Agricultural Development Bank (ADB) and the NIB, which he claimed could lead to about 800 job losses.



In response to the allegations, the Majority Chief Whip, Frank Annoh-Dompreh, said the claims by the Minority were baseless and that the government had made no decision in that regard.



Addressing the media in Parliament yesterday, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh also dismissed claims that the challenges of NIB was as a result of poor corporate governance which has led to bad practice of the banks treasury management.



It is never true that the treasury of the National Investment Bank (NIB) is not functioning, he stated, and added that the current management had adhered to best practices in corporate treasury management.



The Majority Chief Whip said the current liquidity challenges at the bank were as a result of some GH500 million that was given to non-banking institutions during the era of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, which money remained unrecovered.



Some GH500 million, under the reign of NDC, was given to non-financial institutions and as we speak, a lot of the money has not been recovered, he stressed.



Mr. Annoh-Dompreh, who is also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) MP for Nsawam-Adoagyiri, said, The least our colleagues can do is to be careful when commenting about a bank that is mandated by law to help solve and develop our industry.



All of us can appreciate that we are gradually gravitating towards an election year and so people are tempted to come and make all manner of allegations.



I am challenging the Minority that if they have a better proof in terms of the management of NIB and what the board has done wrongly, they should come up and put it across, he asserted.



They should stop making sweeping allegations which dont end up helping anybody, Mr. Annoh-Dompreh said.



He admitted that the bank needed recapitalisation, but he was quick to add that it is not everything that we have to play politics with.



Our colleagues in the Minority should stop this politicisation of all matters, especially those related to the financial sector. If they dont have the facts they should just be patient, investigate and get it, he submitted.



He noted that the current management of NIB, upon assumption of office, had revitalised the bank with various policies and programmes.



Between 2017 and 2018, the bank never had audited financial statements. The same NIB had had a high concentration of loans in the area of the construction sector.



There were losses from mismatches in the foreign exchange balance sheet resulting in a huge daily revaluation loss. There was a weak IT infrastructure and high cost of service contract.



They also experienced an astronomical ratio of staffing. They had 18 staff per branch against the industry norm of 10 staff per branch, he noted.



He pointed out that the story is different today due to adoption of good corporate governance by the board and management of NIB.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Bernard Allotey Jacobs has rebuked the Parliamentary Committee that was set up to probe allegations by some Police officers against the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.



The officers, in a plot captured on a leaked audio recording, accused the IGP of maltreating junior officers and harbouring an intent to rig the 2024 elections in favor of the opposition National Democratic Congress.



They sought for the IGP's dismissal and as a result, both the accusers and the IGP appeared before the Committee.



The Committee is said to have finished its report and will be delivering their recommendations to the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



But to Allotey Jacobs, the Committee and their probe into the IGP brouhaha is a complete "waste of time".



According to him, the IGP has excelled in his duties and deserves to continue his work.



To him, he doubts the President will interfere with the work of the IGP nor attempt to remove him, stressing "I think that the IGP, Ghanaians, he's been fair with us and when you take the policing in this country till today under his administration, he has added more to it that today, when you go to the Police station, you go with confidence".



Allotey asked the President to ignore the Committe and allow Dr. Dampare to head the Police administration.



He also hoped the next government, which he predicted will be led by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, will also maintain Dr. George Dampare for his exceptional leadership.



"Allow him (the IGP) to do his work; I also hope when Dr. Bawumia comes, he will reappoint him," he told Nana Yaw Kesseh on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show Wednesday morning.





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.

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Former Minister for Central Region, Kwamena Duncan has rubbished the Parliamentary Committee probe into allegations that were leveled against the Inspector General of Police by some senior Police officers.



The officers, COP Alex Mensah and Supt. George Asare were caught on tape allegedly plotting to remove the IGP, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, over accusations that he is working against the ruling New Patriotic Party to lose the 2024 elections.



Appearing before the Committee in Parliament, the officers further made wild allegations that compelled the Committee to summon the IGP who came and defended his innocence.



However, the Committee is said to have completed their investigations and will forward their recommendations to the President to act on it.



But Kwamena Duncan has expressed utter disgust over the Committee involving the IGP in their probe.



To him, "from the very onset, the basis for setting up the Committee was a flawed basis" and asked "are they saying that they will pursue every leaked tape?"



Kwamena Duncan kicked against the seeming trial of the IGP, further questioning "to what end and for what end?"



The former Minister also rebuked the Committee for referring their recommendations to the President.



"Has it ever happened? Any person who knows should let us know that when there is an issue, Parliament is the one that sets up a Committee and after probing the matter, they give the recommendations to the President, the Executive, to implement...Then that will be a certain precedent that, at the behest of Parliament, when they feel, when they think that this is a matter we need to investigate and when we investigate; the recommendations made, the Executive must implement those recommendations," he fumed.



Kwamena Duncan emphasized that "where the legislature will be the one that will determine matters which render themselves for investigation and for which they make recommendations and give them to the Executive for implementation" is "odd".





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.

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Bernard Allotey Jacobs, a former NDC Central Regional Chairman, has slammed retired Supreme Court Judge, William Atuguba, for wading into what he terms "controversies" regarding his comment on the court's judgement in a case involving the Assin North lawmaker, James Gyakye Quayson.



Justice William Atuguba, speaking at a public lecture on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, described the court's verdict as "scandalous".



"The James Gyakye Quayson's decision by the Supreme Court is with all due respect scandalous in that the court, in the teeth of the settled maxim Res Judicata et non quieta movere, re adjudicated the same matter that has been adjudicated upon by the High court on the merits."



"The Supreme Court does not stand in good light with all due respect in disqualifying Gyakye Quayson, despite his clear certificate of renunciation of his Canadian citizenship as from 26th November 2020 whereas the elections were on December 7. I am not able to see substantial justice in this", he said.



He added; "If the certificate of renounciation is so mandatory and conclusive why was it not conclusive in its effect to qualify Gyakye Quason when he received it, dated 26th November 2020, whereas the parliamentary election was held on 7th December 2020? Statutes, judgements, and documents must always be applied with consistency both in the letter and spirit. These must always be construed holistically and as instruments of justice since it is a well-settled principle that the duty of a court is to do justice and a court should not be turned away from doing justice."



Reacting to these comments, Allotey Jacobs found it difficult understanding why a man of high reputation and someone who has gained popularity as a "no-nonsense man" in the law fraternity would make such statements.



He wondered if Justice Atuguba seeks to become a Running Mate on the ticket of the opposition National Democratic Congress, hence making such statements to gain their favor.



"Does he want to be a Running Mate to the leading opposition flagbearer?", he questioned while touching on the matter during Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo".





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.

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As expected by critics, Nigerias Supreme Court on Thursday in Abuja dismissed all the petitions by opposition parties challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the controversial 25 February 2023 elections.



The petitions filed by former President Abubakar Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), accused Tinubu of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) of forging the education documents he submitted to the electoral commission, to stand for the elections.



Citing provisions of the Constitution and previous cases as precedent, the seven-Justice apex court in a unanimous and televised judgement, said that it lacked jurisdiction to entertain the petitions and that the petitioners lacked the authority to produce new evidence or amend petitions filed at the lower court.



Other petitions alleging fraud and/or irregularities in the election were also dismissed for lack of merit.



The Supreme Courts verdict is final on election matters in Nigeria, the Elections Petition Appeal Tribunal, having dismissed the same and similar petitions filed by the opposition.



The lead judgement of the Supreme Court, read by Justice John Okoro was seconded by six of his colleagues, who described the petitions as frivolous and vexatious.



Tinubu, a former governor, and Senator might have prevailed in the courts of law, analysts say his presidency could be defined in the court of public opinion by the burden of allegations of forgery, perjury, questionable educational qualifications, identity theft and drug offences.









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Camapign Manager for Kennedy Agyapong for President, Kwame Owusu has admitted that his camp is paying money to induce delegates ahead of next week's NPP Congress to elect a new flagbearer.



Last week, Kennedy Agyapong publicly accused the frontrunner of the NPP presidential primary, Vice President Bawumia of inducing some constituency Chairmen with cars, a claim that has both been denied by the Vice President and a number of the Chairmen.



Some constituency Chairmen in the Northern Region angrily confronted Kennedy Agyapong following the allegation and Vice President Bawumia himself has described the claim as baseless and ridiculous.



In an interesting turn of events, the Manager of Ken's campaign, in an interview with Citi FM, contradicted his boss' claims of not providing financial incentives to delegates but rather accusing other camps of paying money.



"I can't deny the fact that we are also giving money. It is not bribe", he revealed.



"Team Ken Agyapong is also inducing delegates with money but we are doing it covertly," Kwame Owusu further admitted.











Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko has responded to what he describes as some very unfortunate and ill-informed statements by Hon. Kwabena Donkor on the termination of the GPGC Power Purchase Agreement.



"I deem the utterances most unfortunate and irresponsible coming from a former Minister who ought to know that it is not within my power or province, or that of any Minister to unilaterally cancel or terminate a contract of this nature," Boakye Agyarko said in a statement.



According to him upon assumption of office, the newly elected NPP government decided to take all the necessary actions to contain the cost of power generation and distribution in Ghana.



Hence, it became necessary to review the implementation of the many Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) because should all of them be implemented as originally scheduled, it would result in the production of excess energy with its attendant cost, which would worsen the financial situation of the power sector.



The review was therefore to help cut back on losses that would be incurred.



A former Power Minister under the John Mahama administration, Dr. Kwabena Donkor has stated that the decision by government to terminate the Ghana Power Generating Company (GPGC) contract, leading to a judgement debt of $140 million made no sense commercially and legally at the time.



The Pru East MP, wants parliament to probe the former Energy Minister, Boakye Agyarko and other officials of the current government who took the decision, insisting the reasons given for the termination are untenable.



Read below his full statement



My attention has been drawn to some very unfortunate and ill-informed statements by Hon. Kwabena Donkor on the termination of the GPGC Power Purchase Agreement.



I deem the utterances most unfortunate and irresponsible coming from a former Minister who ought to know that it is not within my power or province, or that of any Minister to unilaterally cancel or terminate a contract of this nature.



Upon assumption of office, the newly elected NPP government decided to take all the necessary actions to contain the cost of power generation and distribution in Ghana. It became necessary to review the implementation of the many Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) because should all of them be implemented as originally scheduled, it would result in the production of excess energy with its attendant cost, which would worsen the financial situation of the power sector. The review was therefore to help cut back on losses that would be incurred.



An Inter-Ministerial Committee was set up under the chair of the Energy Commission to review the fiscal and legal implications of Power Purchase Agreement (PPAs) executed by the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The eighteen (18) member committee was chaired by Dr. Alfred Ofosu Ahenkora, Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission. Its report was submitted on 5th April, 2019 under ref EC/MOE/17.



The report was subsequently put before Cabinet for consideration and action. Cabinet directed that the report be further reviewed by the Attorney-General. This was done.



Cabinet subsequently gave its approval for the recommendation of the report to be implemented.



In respect of the GPGC PA, the report recommended the termination of the PPA with a capacitv of 107 MW (executed between Government and GPGC) at an estimated lost of USC



18 million or else pay excess capacity charge of USD 24.90 million per annum over the contract period of 4 years.



This is an Emergency Plant with a 5-year PPA, used plant (not new) and high tariff. Major equipment has arrived at the Tema port awaiting tax exemption to clear.



Remarks from the report follows;



"Based on the 2018-2030 demand supply capacity balance and the tariff rank of this project, the full capacity of this project will be excess (idle) resulting in estimated total cost of USD 115.48 million within the duration of the PPA.



The likelihood of the Plant being idle, is further heightening by the fact that, it is a pure natural gas fired turbine to be located in Tema where there is inadequate gas to feed it.



There is therefore a high probability of the Plant remaining idle even if allowed to proceed".



Based on the decision of Cabinet, I as minister initiated the process by informing all interested parties of this decision and requested that the decision be implemented. At the time I left office, the Government of Ghana and GCGP, consequently begun negotiation to give effect to the decision to terminate.



These are the facts which I know are available to the Honourable Minister.



END



SIGNED



BOAKYE KYEREMATENG AGYARKO









Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah a governance Lecturer at the Central University has waded into discussions relating to a bribery allegation by Professor Stephen Adei.



Professor Stephen Adei, a former Director-General and Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration, in an interview with TV3, has accused government officials of demanding payment of 1 million before awarding road contracts.



"This road contract would be given to you, provided you put one million upfront, not after you have gotten the money. This is what Akufo-Addo must be thinking about and if he knows about it, he must be ashamed.



That now his people demand from you a certain amount before you would be considered for a job. Why? Because when they get it, whether the government pays you or not they have gotten their money. It is as if people are in a hurry to loot the country before the end of Akufo-Addos term, he alleged.



But the Road Ministry has debunked the accusation, stressing these allegations are surprising at the least because the processes leading to the award of road contracts are open, transparent, competitive and in accordance with the law.



They however indicated in a statement that they have handed the case to EOCO.



Given that the alleged conduct borders on the commission of crime against the Republic, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwasi Amoako-Attah, has today, 23rd October 2023, requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to fully investigate the allegations.



Reacting to the issue, Dr. Benjamin Otchere-Ankrah has appealed for a Commission to be set up to probe it, asking "is this why our roads are in a bad shape?"



"This is serious matter; we don't have to joke with it at all. In fact, I'd prefer we set up a whole Commission to investigate it because it's so damning," the Governance lecturer at the Central University told Nana Yaw Kesseh on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo".





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.

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The Maine State Police reported that at least 16 people were killed in the mass shooting on Wednesday night. The police urged the residents to stay vigilant as the suspect remained on the run.

The police alerted the residents on social media that there was an active shooter around Lewiston.

Mass Shooting in Maine

The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released the photos of the suspect to the public. According to Reuters, the suspect is a bearded man in a brown hoodie jacket and jeans holding a rifle in the firing position. The sheriff's office also said they were investigating two active shooter incidents.

The police said active shooter incidents are at Schemengees Bar, Grille, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley. The police asked the residents to keep off the roads to allow emergency responders access the hospitals. The police also posted a photo of a vehicle they are investigating related to the shooting. The police asked the residents to contact them if they recognized a white SUV with a painted black front bumper.

According to The Epoch Times, the sheriff's office encouraged the public to help them and reach out via email and message on Facebook if they had identified the suspect. A spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety has advised the residents to remain indoors, lock their doors, and remain vigilant.

"Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down or close while we investigate. The suspect remains at large," the sheriff's office posted on Facebook. Furthermore, Gov. Janet Mills said she was well-informed of the situation and highlighted the need for residents to follow the guidance of state and local law enforcement.

She shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, that she will urge people in the area to follow the direction of state and local enforcement. She will also continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials. Central Maine Medical Center has posted on its website that the hospital needs more staff due to a mass casualty and mass shooter event. The hospital is coordinating with area hospitals to accommodate patients.

Maine Sen. Angus King, an independent, said he sincerely feels sorry for the victims' families, friends, and neighbors. King reassured that they would do their best to monitor the situation.

Read Also: California Regulators Revoke License of Driverless Cars, Identified as Risk to Public Safety

Increasing Death Tolls in Mass Shootings

According to CNN, the death toll in Maine has been confirmed to be at least 22 killed in the mass shooting, one of the deadliest in the United States.

In August 2019, a gunman fired on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 23 in a shooting that prosecutors exposed as an anti-Hispanic hate crime.

The police reported that the number of annual homicides in the state varied between 16 and 29 since 2012.

The deadliest U.S. mass shooting in history was the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.
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:

Outputs from data analyses utilizing ChatGPT. (a) Conversion of R functions to Python to perform baseflow separation (data from Ladson, 2023). Credit: Hydrological Processes (2023). DOI: 10.1002/hyp.15015

A Charles Darwin University (CDU) water expert who uses ChatGPT to analyze hydrological data in a fraction of time says artificial intelligence (AI) could allow researchers to dedicate more time to the world's most pressing problems.

CDU groundwater hydrology expert Dr. Dylan Irvine, alongside Dr. Landon Halloran and Dr. Philip Brunner from the University of Neuchatel in Switzerland, have discussed the opportunities and limitations from using new capabilities of ChatGPT for hydrological analyses in a paper titled "Opportunities and limitations of the ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis plugin for hydrological analyses." The paper was published in Hydrological Processes.

The paper explores the results of using ChatGPT to translate between coding languages, plot data, generate codes and analyze data in a hydrological science setting.

The authors found people with limited or no coding ability can conduct data assessments with ChatGPT in either the free version, or with the Advanced Data Analysis plugin in the paid version, and time could also be saved through the speed at which ChatGPT can analyze data.

Other benefits include the ability for ChatGPT to suggest data analysis options, summarize academic papers and reports, troubleshoot and debug code, and generate, edit and test code.

The authors found while the benefits were numerous, users needed to check the accuracy of results and tweaks prompts because ChatGPT is prone to errors.

Dr. Irvine, who began experimenting with AI tools to analyze data, said integrating AI into his processes has become a significant asset to his work.

"Computer codes that used to take me days to write can now be written in an hour or less. Solving problems and overcoming issues is much quicker now," Dr. Irvine said.

"It used to be that if I wanted to lean a new technique, such as something in machine learning, I'd often have to spend a long time reading, and trawling the web for examples. Often there was one part that was hard to set up and without it, the entire code doesn't work.

"Now, fixing errors or learning new approaches is much easier. I'm expanding my skillset into adjacent disciplines. I'm a groundwater researcher by training but I can now do a lot more surface water-related work."

Dr. Irvine said carefully and appropriately incorporating AI to automate low-level tasks could have a positive impact on the hydrological sciences by freeing up time to focus on complex problems common in the field.

"I'm an Earth and environmental scientist. It's amazing to get to study how the world works, and the work that we do is as important now as ever," Dr. Irvine said.

"However, we struggle to convince students to study Earth science, and/or water resources. This shortage basically means that there's more work to do than we have capacity for. Automating basic tasks using AI can free up time so that we can focus on more challenging tasks."

More information: Dylan J. Irvine et al, Opportunities and limitations of the ChatGPT Advanced Data Analysis plugin for hydrological analyses, Hydrological Processes (2023). DOI: 10.1002/hyp.15015
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The project to turn the page on the area's mining past is the biggest natural restoration ever undertaken in Norway.

At the old Svea mine in the Arctic, broken railway tracks overgrown with weeds lead nowhere. Of the hundred buildings that once made up the town, there's almost nothing left.

Coal brought fortune to Norway's Svalbard archipelago, but that bonanza became a curse for the remote group of islands, now the most harmful fossil energy for the climate.

Svalbard, today home to 3,000 people and located in the fastest-warming region on the planet, is bit by bit erasing all traces of its mining past.

A 40-minute helicopter flight from the main town of Longyearbyen, the Svea mine and its surrounding settlement have been returned to Mother Nature after a massive, recently-completed restoration project.

"At its peak there were barracks for 300 people, with a canteen, an airfield with 35,000 passengers yearly, a power plant, a workshop, and storage," said Morten Hagen Johansen, in charge of the project at the mine where he was once employed.

The Svea site is the biggest natural restoration ever undertaken in Norway.

Only a handful of man-made objects remain, preserved because they are considered historic.

They include a few dilapidated brick buildings, a rusted track vehicle, and railway tracks that once transported wagons loaded with coal.

Rusty bits of rail track and other rubble are virtually all that remain on the site of the former Svea coal mine which operated from 1917 until 2020.

The area "was home to many miners who were working here for decades," Hanna Geiran, head of the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage, told AFP.

"Preserving these artifacts helps to better understand what this place was," she added.

Avalanches

The mine was opened by a Swedish company in 1917 and officially closed 100 years later after producing 34 million metric tons of coal.

The site has since been returned to its natural state at a cost of around 1.6 billion kroner (about $140 million) to the Norwegian state.

"The concept is to try to let nature take it back," said Hagen Johansen.

"That means to let creeks run freely. To make sure that avalanches do happen, because that will transport more sediment down and it will make new creeks."

The part of the Barents Sea where the Svalbard archipelago is located is warming up to seven times faster than the rest of the planet, according to a study published in last year.

Former miner Morten Hagen Johansen (L) holds a picture of the mine.

At Svea, a spectacular landslide recently created a deep crevasse down a hilly slope.

"It is the result of a very heavy rainfall last summer where they got maybe 50-60 millimeters (2-2.3 inches) of rain in just 24 hours," geologist Fredrik Juell Theisen said.

"That was very unusual before climate change started changing the climate up here," he added.

Russian presence

The climate backlash is for the archipelago now trying to rid itself of fossil fuels.

Seven other mines located in the hills of Longyearbyen have almost all been closed, with the last one due to shut in 2025.

The town also disconnected its coal plant for good this month in exchange for a less-polluting diesel plant, ahead of a transition to renewable energies at a later stage.

Going forward, Svalbard's economy will rely on tourism and scientific research.

The area is warming up to seven times faster than the rest of the planet, according to a study published in Nature last year.

The only coal still being mined on the archipelago will be a vein in Barentsburg, a Russian mining community with just under 500 Russians and Ukrainians, most of them from the Donbas region.

Under the 1920 international treaty that recognizes Norway's sovereignty over Svalbard, all signatories are entitled to exploit the region's natural resources equally.

As a result, Russia has for decades maintained a mining community om Svalbard, via the state-run company Trust Arktikugol, in a strategic region belonging to a NATO member.

According to some observers and Russia itself, strict environmental regulations that Norway has introduced in the regionabout two-thirds of Svalbard land is protected in one way or anotherare at least partly aimed at limiting .

It's impossible to know whether such considerations played into Oslo's decision to restore the Svea mine at great cost, said Mats Kirkebirkeland of Norwegian think tank Civita.

"But there's no denying that some of the Norwegian environmental policies and the geostrategic policies on Svalbard are aligned."

 2023 AFP
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Credit: CC0 Public Domain

The effect of different cultural characteristics can affect the relationships consumers using social media have with different brands, according to research published in the International Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing.

Marsela Thanasi-Boce and Omar Ali of the American University of the Middle East in Kuwait Ayse Begum Ersoy of Cape Breton University in Nova Scotia, Canada, have examined the role social media plays in the differences in the relationships between consumers and brands.

The team used Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory to help them understand social media data gathered from users in Albania and Turkey through online surveys. They used statistical analysis to dig deep into the data and compare the characteristics of communication on social media between these two regions.

The team found a positive correlation between social media communications and the strength of consumer-brand relationships. Indeed, the more a user is engaged in social media activity, the stronger is their relationship with a given brand. However, the findings are more nuanced than that. The researchers found that the effect was less pronounced in the culture with the stronger collectivist tendency. This, they suggest, challenges the conventional wisdom with regard to cultural influences on social media behavior.

It is worth noting, that other variables such as gender and age perhaps paradoxically had little impact on brand relationship quality. This suggests that these relationships transcend demographic boundaries, emphasizing what we might consider their universality.

The findings offer new insights for marketing, In recognizing cultural similarities and differences in how consumers respond to social media communications, the work highlights possible new opportunities for businesses to tailor their social media marketing strategies to align with particular cultural characteristics, preferences, and behavior patterns rather than applying general principles in a region where the impact may be intrinsically weaker.

The work points to a need for companies to craft more effective and culturally sensitive strategies to connect with putative consumers worldwide depending on local culture. Future work will, of course, need to extend the findings from these two areas to a wider base to help support the hypothesis and allow more general conclusions to be drawn about brand relationships and how social media across different cultures influences them.

More information: Marsela Thanasi Boce et al, Developing brand relationships through social media communication: a cross-cultural comparison, International Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing (2023). DOI: 10.1504/IJEMR.2023.133939

Provided by Inderscience
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A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft and a crew of three astronauts, lifts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre.

China sent a fresh crew to its Tiangong space station on Thursday, in the latest mission for a growing space program that plans to send people to the Moon by 2030.

The Shenzhou-17 blasted off from the Jiuquan launch site in northwest China at 11:14 am (0314 GMT), carrying a three-astronaut team with the youngest average age since the space station's construction.

At a farewell ceremony, hundreds of supporters waving the Chinese national flag and clutching yellow flowers cheered on the three astronautswearing white and blue spacesuitsas they were introduced to the crowds.

The patriotic song "Ode to the Motherland" was sung as the space travelers walked slowly down a short pathway between the crowds, smiling and waving goodbye before boarding a bus to the launch site.

Captaining the crew is Tang Hongbo, who is on his first return mission to the space station.

Accompanying him are Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin, both in their thirties and each making maiden space voyages.

The all-male crew is the youngest ever to man a mission to the space station, with an average age of 38.

They are set to "perform various in-orbit space science and application payload tests and experiments", Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the China Manned Space Agency, said on Wednesday.

Map locating Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northern China's autonomous region of Inner Mongolia.

They will also conduct some maintenance work on the station to fix some "minor damages" from space debris, he said.

"We have found that the solar wings of the space station had been hit by tiny space particles several times," Lin explained.

Gobi launch

Members of the previous Shenzhou-16 crewaboard Tiangong for nearly five months noware preparing to receive the trio before returning to Earth next week.

Hundreds of spectators gathered on Thursday morning near the rocket site at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre, in the Gobi Desert, some wearing the blue uniforms of China's space agency.

Excitement broke out among the crowd as a loudspeaker blared a countdown and the rocket lifted off, sending plumes of smoke across the launch pad and the dry, flat desert expanse surrounding the site, before the increasingly loud roar of the engines drowned out the applause.

A livestream showed the crew onboard the space station monitoring their ascent in anticipation of their arrival.

After the rocket had been airborne for about 15 minutes, a space program official proclaimed the launch a "complete success".

Tiangong, the crown jewel of Beijing's space program, is constantly crewed by rotating teams of three astronauts.

A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft and a crew of three astronauts, is being prepared for lift off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre.

Space dream

Plans for China's "space dream" have been put into overdrive under President Xi Jinping.

The world's second-largest economy has pumped billions of dollars into its military-run space program in an effort to catch up with the United States and Russia.

In June, the return capsule of the Shenzhou-15 spaceship touched down at a landing site in the northern Inner Mongolia region, with state media hailing the mission as a "complete success".

That month also saw the launch of the Shenzhou-16 capsule, which carried the first Chinese civilianBeihang University professor Gui Haichaointo orbit.

That crew will return to Earth on October 31 after completing a handover, officials said Wednesday.

Beijing also aims to send a crewed mission to the moon by 2030 and plans to build a base on the lunar surface.

Deputy director Lin reiterated that aim Wednesday, saying that the "goal of landing Chinese people on the moon by 2030 will be realized as scheduled".

 2023 AFP
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Deep within a cave in Brazil, a crusty creature crawled along the moist, rocky ground. Something about the subterranean animal caught the attention of nearby scientists.

The scientists were surveying wildlife in the reddish, iron-rich cave system of the Carajas Mountains, according to a study published Sept. 13 in the journal Zoosystema. These "extensive surveys" took place between 2005 to 2019, "resulting in a considerable amount of material available for study."

During these cave surveys, scientists collected over 1,300 millipedes and preserved the specimens in museum collections but did not identify them, the study said.

Intrigued, another group of researchers analyzed the millipedes and discovered they belonged to a new species: Pseudoporatia kananciue, or the Kananciue millipede.

Kananciue millipedes have 19 body segments, or "body rings," that are "crusted by sediments of iron ore," the study said. The millipedes have an unspecified number of legs, which are "not visible from above."

The Kananciue millipede is considered "relatively big," reaching about 0.3 inches in length, study co-author Luiz Iniesta told McClatchy News in an Oct. 24 email.

Photos show several Kananciue millipedes. The animal's body is a whitish cream color with speckles of orange-red, the same color as the surrounding dirt. Their "body rings" look almost like waxy pieces and appear held together by the thinner worm-like body underneath.

A close-up photo of a single Kananciue millipede shows a pair of antennae extending horizontally from its head.

Male Kananciue millipedes have "rather complex" genitalia, researchers said. Its genitalia is located near its head segments and has an oval shape, photos in the study show.

Kananciue millipedes have a subterranean and cave-dwelling lifestyle. They prefer "moist areas with any organic debris" in the sections of the cave with minimal light, the study said. Large groups of millipedes were found around "huge deposits" of bat guano.

The new species is "widely distributed" in rocky, iron-rich caves of the Carajas Mountains, researchers said. These caves are "connected with each other by a huge network of small channels."

Despite this habitat, the new species has "no clear morphological adaptations" for subterranean living, Iniesta said.

Researchers said they named the new species after Kananciue, the main deity of the indigenous Karajas tribe that lives in the Carajas Mountains where the millipedes were discovered.

The Carajas Mountains are part of a national forest in the state of Para and about 700 miles northwest of Brasilia, the capital city.

The new species was identified by its body segments, genitalia and other subtle physical features, the study said. Researchers did not provide a DNA analysis of the new species.

"The species richness of millipedes remains vastly underestimated in the Amazonian rainforest," researchers said.

The research team included Iniesta, Rodrigo Bouzan, Claudio Souza, Robson Zampaulo, Igor Cizauskas and Antonio Brescovit.

More information: Luiz F. M. Iniesta et al, Additions to the millipede fauna of an Amazonian ferruginous landscape: a new species of Pseudoporatia Golovatch, 1999 widespread in rock outcrops (Diplopoda, Polydesmida, Pyrgodesmidae), Zoosystema (2023). DOI: 10.5252/zoosystema2023v45a16

2023 The Charlotte Observer. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Scientists have received the first transmissions from a muon detector placed 1 km underground in the Stawell Underground Physics Laboratory.

The muon detector records the amount of cosmic radiation that reaches the laboratory located in Stawell Gold Mines. Muons are heavier versions of electrons that are made from the collision of cosmic rays with atoms in Earth's atmosphere. The muon detector records these collisions to determine levels of cosmic radiation.

It is crucial that low levels of radiation are recorded to ensure that the environment surrounding the SABRE South experiment, which will be transported to the laboratory in 2024, is as pristine as possible in order to detect dark matter particles.

In its first few days, the muon detector recorded about five detections per day, far lower than the more than the around 1.8 million interactions that would be expected above ground.

ARC Center of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics (CDM) researchers will continue to monitor the levels of radiation before the SABRE South experiment vessel is transported into SUPL.

The SABRE South experiment mirrors an experiment in the Northern Hemisphere and will determine whether readings taken by Italian researchers are a result of seasonal fluctuations, or dark matter.

CDM Director Professor Elisabetta Barberio says the data collection is an exciting milestone for the project. "Our first data collections showed that by building the laboratory 1 km underground in Stawell Gold Mine, we have managed to reduce the cosmic radiation that will reach our dark matter detector," Professor Barberio said.

"Our scientists in Melbourne and around Australia will be able to continue to monitor muon levels to ensure cosmic radiation remains low. It is a very significant step in the project that scientists around the world are watching very closely."

The Chair of SUPL Ltd, responsible for the laboratory's operations, Sue Barrell, said the milestone paved away for scientific innovation into the future.

"SUPL is a unique facility, bringing together community interests and research objectives. It has been quite a journey to get to this point, but the ground is now set now to deliver some world-class science outcomes."

CDM researcher and The University of Melbourne Ph.D. candidate Mike Mews was among the researchers who traveled into SUPL to set up the muon detector to communicate with computers above ground.

Mews has also undergone training that will allow him to work underground for extended periods.

"It's really exciting that we can read the cosmic radiation levels deep underground while sitting at our desks at Melbourne University," he said.

"I'm looking forward to traveling to SUPL more regularly as the project continues to progress and we create the ideal environment for the SABRE South experiment."
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Asteroid Didymos (bottom left) and its moonlet, Dimorphos, about 2.5 minutes before the impact of NASAs DART spacecraft. Credit: NASA/Johns Hopkins APL

NASA's DART mission (Double Asteroid Redirection Test) slammed into asteroid Dimorphos in September 2022, changing its orbital period. Ground and space-based telescopes turned to watch the event unfold, not only to study what happened to the asteroid, but also to help inform planetary defense efforts that might one day be needed to mitigate potential collisions with our planet.

Astronomers have continued to observe and study Dimorphos, well past the impact event. However, Dimorphos is the smaller asteroid in this binary system, and is just a small moon orbiting the larger asteroid Didymos.

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) is the only telescope capable of visually distinguishing between the two closely orbiting asteroids. Now, astronomers have made follow-on observations on the system with JWST to see what happened to Didymos after the dust cleared.

In a new preprint paper posted to the arXiv server, a team of scientists, led by Andrew Rivkin, the Investigation Lead for DART, explain how they used two instruments on JWST to measure spectra of Didymos about two months after the DART impact. One of their biggest takeaways is that Didymos and Dimorphos appear to be of the same composition, which is that of an ordinary chondrite. That's the class of stony meteorites which account for over 80% of total meteorite falls on Earth. This means DART's test was an extremely good proxy for the type of asteroids that might pose a threat one day.

"One of the benefits of using the Didymos system was definitely that we thought it was representative of most of what's out there in its properties," Rivkin told Universe Today via email. "People working on planetary defense often note that the 'asteroid picks us rather than the other way around,' but showing that what we did at Dimorphos is broadly applicable is very important."

For the new observations, the scientists used NIRSpecthe near infrared spectrometerand MIRI, the mid-infrared instrument, on November 28, 2022.

At the time of the observations, the centers of Didymos and Dimorphos were never separated by more than 0.1" from each other, from JWST's vantage point. But the team did take advantage of Dimorphos being occulted by Didymos during the MIRI observations.

Median averaged slice through the MIRI MRS IFU showing Didymos. Note that Dimorphos was being occulted by Didymos during the entire period of MIRI observations. Credit: Rivkin et al, 2023

"Didymos is roughly five times larger in diameter than Dimorphos and therefore it has roughly 25 times the cross-sectional area as Dimorphos," the researchers wrote. "This size difference between the components means that roughly 96% of flux from the system typically comes from Didymos."

The researchers said several lines of evidence suggest that the asteroid and its moon have similar compositions and the team concludes they "can reasonably estimate the composition of Dimorphos specifically from measurements of the Didymos-dominated flux."

This image from the DART spacecraft of the light from asteroid Didymos and its orbiting moonlet Dimorphos. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/DART Navigation Team

Given how hard it is to distinguish between Didymos and Dimorphos in long-range observations, I asked Rivkin if they were able to see any noticeable changes in the observations of Didymos after the impact to Dimorphos, given all the dust and debris from the impact. The results seem to indicate Didymos escaped mostly unscathed from DART's impact of the asteroid's moon.

"We have a lot of new results from observations of the Didymos system that are getting published (including this pre-print paper led by Theodore Kareta) talking about the tail development and evolution. It shows that after 25 days or so there was no extra brightness from debris within the Didymos system, and so by November 2022, observations of the system (including the JWST ones!) are pretty much all Didymos again."

Rivkin added that they've made some puzzling observations using polarized light that suggest perhaps the average particle size or the average reflectivity might have slightly changed on Didymos, but they are waiting for spring 2024 to get more observations.

Rivulets of melted rock line the fusion crust of melted rock on this small Chelyabinsk meteorite. Credit: Bob King

An interesting (and fun!) comparison that Rivkin and his team made is how similar in composition Didymos is to the Chelyabinsk meteor, the famous meteor that created a huge airburst event over Russia in February 2013. The Chelyabinsk meteor is thought to be the biggest natural space object to enter Earth's atmosphere since the 1908 Tunguska event. So, it too serves as a very representative near-Earth asteroid.

"Yes, that comparison seemed particularly apt!" Rivkin said. "What Didymos and Dimorphos are composed of are very common among near-Earth asteroids, so even a randomly chosen meteorite would have a good chance of matching!"

Other asteroids that have been studied even more closelysuch as Eros and Itokawaalso have similar compositions, Rivkin said, even though they likely don't come from the same original object. But all the asteroids mentioned here are from the same class, S-type asteroidssiliceous or stony.

Eros was the first asteroid to be orbited by a spacecraft (NEAR in 2000), and the first asteroid to have a spacecraft land on it. It was also the first near-Earth asteroid (NEA) to be discovered, in 1898. Itokawa was visited by the JAXA Hayabusa mission, and was the first asteroid from which samples were captured and brought to Earth for analysis.

Even though remote observations of distant objects like Didymos and Dimorphos are incredibly difficultespecially for precisely determining asteroid compositionRivkin said he's heartened by the success they've had.

"We've spent over 50 years trying to sort out some very detailed questions and how to approach them," he said. "Studies like the JWST observations and all of the other great work done to observe Didymos over the years and the fact they agree on the big-picture story gives us a chance to step back and realize how far we've come in being able to remotely tell what something is made of."

But the observations of Dimorphos and Didymos will continue, and astronomers are looking forward to learning even more soon. ESA's Hera mission is scheduled to arrive at the Didymos system in late 2026, and the researchers said they'll be able to follow up or extend several of the results they found with JWST.

Hera specifically will be able to image Didymos' surface at higher spatial resolution than was possible from DART (as well as from LICIACubethe Light Italian CubeSat for Imaging of Asteroids, a cubesat that was part of the DART mission, which sent back images of the impact.) Hera will be able to perform a test of the regolith particle size inferences derived from mid-infrared spectroscopy and a do check on the measured thermal inertia.

"We look forward to Hera and future JWST measurements of additional S-complex asteroids to help us continue efforts to understand the population of potential asteroid impactors, for the science return and to help inform planetary defense efforts to mitigate potential collisions," the researchers said.

More information: Andrew S. Rivkin et al, Near to Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy of (65803) Didymos as observed by JWST: Characterization Observations Supporting the Double Asteroid Redirection Test, arXiv (2023). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2310.11168 Journal information: arXiv
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Risso's dolphins. Credit: Leonidas Karantzas/Greenpeace

Endangered whales and dolphins live year-round in an area of the Mediterranean earmarked for oil and gas exploration, new research shows.

Various cetacean species are known to inhabit the Hellenic Trench off Greece in the summer, but until now little has been known about their winter whereabouts.

This lack of information has been used to justify seismic surveys (which may harm whales and dolphins) in winter.

The new study found that at least four speciesincluding the regionally endangered sperm whalelive in the deep waters of the Hellenic Trench in both summer and winter.

The research was carried out in 2021-22 by the Greenpeace Research Laboratories, University of Exeter, Greenpeace Greece and the Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute.

"The Mediterranean is one of the busiest seas on the planet, and whales and dolphins are already threatened by ship strikes, overfishing, bycatch (accidental catching), pollution with chemicals and plastics, and climate change," said Dr. Kirsten Thompson.

"Noise is also a key threat. Certain whale species, for example the Cuvier's beaked whales, are known to be particularly vulnerable to human-made noise, which comes from sources including ship engines, military sonar and 'air guns' used to survey for oil and gas."

"These combined threats could affect populations of whales and dolphins that rely on the Hellenic Trench as key habitat."

"The shallower waters of the Hellenic Trench have been designated as an Important Marine Mammal Area. Based on our findings, it is clear that seismic surveys and oil and gas extraction across the Trench would be completely at odds with conservation."

Co-author Dr. Alexandros Frantzis, Scientific Director of Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, said, "We have already shown that ship-strikes alone will drive the eastern Mediterranean population of sperm whales to extinction in a few decades, if no measures (shipping lanes and/or creation of Areas to be Avoided) are taken along the Hellenic Trench.

Risso's dolphins. Credit: Leonidas Karantzas/Greenpeace

"For nine years, we have been trying to convince the Greek authorities to address this problem in collaboration with the International Maritime Organisation, with no concrete results."

"On the other hand, the local population of Cuvier's beaked whales, after decades of repeated mass strandings due to military sonar use, are declining as well as the striped dolphins that inhabit the Hellenic Trench."

"Seismic surveys and gas and oil exploration in the area will be the 'coup de grace' for the local cetacean populations if added to the already existing anthropogenic pressures and threats."

Kostis Grimanis, of Greenpeace Greece, added, "This important research demonstrates clearly that endangered whales and dolphins live year-round in an area of the Mediterranean of huge ecological importance."

"The choice to follow through with oil and gas drilling in those waters will not only be detrimental to our collective fight against the climate crisis but also to our collective efforts to conserve and protect those iconic species of marine biodiversity."

The researchers used two Greenpeace vessels to carry out visual and acoustic surveys of large areas of the Hellenic Trench, including two blocks that are earmarked for seismic surveys and potential oil and gas exploration (west Crete and south-west Crete).

The area may also be affected by a proposed new gas pipeline called EastMed, which would connect eastern Mediterranean gas reserves to Greece.

Using sightings and computer analysis of audio recordings, the research team confirmed the presence of endangered sperm whales, Cuvier's beaked whales (classified as "vulnerable" in the Mediterranean), Risso's dolphins, striped dolphins and rough-toothed dolphins.

They confirmed a further 224 recordings of unidentified dolphins (several dolphins have similar vocalizations, so it is not always possible to distinguish between them).

The study is published in the journal Endangered Species Research.

More information: KF Thompson et al, Summer and winter surveys of deep waters of the Hellenic Trench, Greece, provide insights into the spatial and temporal distribution of odontocetes, Endangered Species Research (2023). DOI: 10.3354/esr01265
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Credit: Monstera Production from Pexels

Slowly but surely, calls for a wealth tax to finance the green transition are picking up in Europe, with a number of initiatives from different political movements put the issue (back) on the political agenda.

In a September French parliamentary report, Jean-Paul Mattei of the MoDem group, part of President Emmanuel Macron's ruling majority, spoke favorably of a such a tax to finance the ecological transition. At the beginning of the summer, Social Democrat MEPs Aurore Lalucq and Paul Magnette submitted a request to the European Commission for a "European citizens' initiative" on the subject. If it gathers a million signatures in at least seven countries within a year, it could lead to the drafting of a European directive introducing an "ecological and social wealth tax" targeting the 1% richest households. In July, the commission gave the green light to the collection of signatures.

A study commissioned by the Green Group in the European Parliament and carried out by the NGO Tax Justice Network looked at the potential impacts of such an initiative. It found that a European tax on the 0.5% richest households would bring in 213 billion euros a year, anything but insignificant.

This is all the more remarkable given the virtual disappearance of wealth taxes within the member states of the EU. In 2023, only Spain still has one, with a threshold of 700,000 euros and rates that vary from one autonomous community to another. While it seems unlikely that such a tax will be reinstated at national level in France and Germanythe two countries that were the subject of our workthe debate seems very different at European level when climate issues are involved.

Ended in France, suspended in Germany

One of French president Emmanuel Macron's early measures was the abolition of the _impot de solidarite sur la fortune (ISF), a "solidarity tax" on wealth enacted in 1981 by Francois Mitterand's government. To plug the budgetary hole, Macron replaced it with a tax on property wealth, the IFI. Despite the new tax, the change considerably reduced revenues: the ISF brought in 4 billion euros to public coffers in 2017, the IFI only 2.35 billion euros in 2022. The impact of the change on reducing the tax exile rate or improving the country's competitiveness remains unproven.

In Germany, a wealth tax is still part of the country's Basic Law (which acts as the country's constitution) although it has not been levied since 22 June 1995, when the Federal Constitutional Court ruled that it didn't respect the principle of equality before the taxproperty was assessed on the basis of 1964 property values, while financial assets were assessed at market value. As property was taxed less heavily than financial assets, the court asked Helmut Kohl's government to revise the property values on which wealth tax was based. As the Kohl government chose not to do so, the tax was automatically suspendedthough not abolishedon 1 January 1997.

An unlikely return to the national level

In the two countries often described as the "engines of Europe," the question of a return of capital taxation has frequently arisen. In Germany, all the left-wing parties put it on their manifesto at every legislative election, but with the exception of die Linke, none is taking action.

Interviews we conducted with SPD and Green Party members of parliament between 2010 and 2016 show that the defense of wealth tax is just a facade. Its main purpose seems to be to rally electoral, association, and trade-union support rather than be included in the various coalition contracts negotiated over the years. For example, in 2021 the SPD and the Green Party joined forces with the Liberal Party (FDP, right-wing) to form a new government. While they were in a strong position to reintroduce a tax on society's richest, even through a temporary measure, the possibility was quickly dismissed, and without any real surprise.

Various strategies to reintroduce the wealth tax in France have been uniformly rejected by Emmanuel Macron, with Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire saying that creating such a tax "is not the solution."

This situation is largely due to how opponents of a wealth tax have reframed the debates. While originally conceived as a solidarity measure in France and as a budgetary resource for the Lander in Germany, opponents have successfully emphasized their supposed effects on businesses. Although business assets have been excluded from the tax base, the tax was decried as a disguised corporate tax. The claim was that the ISF would lead to an exile of the wealthiest in a context of tax competition between states, a flight of capital and thus job losses.

A European solution?

Caught in this impasse, the advocates of a wealth tax have shifted the battle to the EU level and linked it to a new issuethe environment.

An analysis of parliamentary archives for the period 2010-2016 shows that no party in France or Germany, including ecologists, used this political framing. The issue of reducing social and economic inequalities through taxation has therefore given way to a potentially more consensual issue that is likely to attract wider support. A similar strategy has already been observed in the case of other public policies such as the reform of the labor code in Portugal.

By moving to the European level, the supporters of a wealth tax can bypass the criticism that individual nations' firms are being weakened in European economic competition. It is certainly this dimension that has led France's Ministry of Economics to keep open the possibility of a European wealth tax.

If the European Citizens' Initiative reaches the required number of signatures, it would enable supporters of the wealth tax to mobilize European public opinion. In many countries, including Germany, public opinion seems to be in favor of such a measure.

While a wealth tax still has a long way to go to make a major comeback in Europe, there is movement in Brussels. Such a tax would also lay the foundations for a common tax system that would strengthen the EU as a whole, at a time when the continent's far-right Eurosceptic parties, in advance of the 2024 elections, are seeking to weaken it.

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Ipe forest, Brazil. Credit: Chalmers/Daniel Beltra

The tropical wood type ipe is popular for building exclusive wooden decks, and in North America and Europe, the demand for the material has increased sharply.

Now, a study from Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, shows that more than three-quarters of all ipe from the top producing region in Brazil could have been harvested illegally. "The study reveals where in the chain the greatest risks lie. It can be a tool to counteract illegal logging," says Caroline S.S. Franca, Ph.D. student at Chalmers.

Ipe is one of the world's hardest woods. It is therefore particularly suitable for building balconies, conservatories, stairs or piers. Demand for the exclusive, tropical wood has increased steadily in recent years, especially on European, American and Canadian markets. In Brazil, the country of origin for 96% of all ipe on the market, exports have increased by over 76% in volume over the past decade.

This development means an increased risk of illegal logging of ipe, which in November 2022 was included on the Cites list of species threatened by overexploitation due to its popularity and increasing demand through international trade.

"Some products from the rainforest are more valuable and therefore more vulnerable to illegal logging. Ipe is at the top of that list. At the same time, ipe trees grow slowly, which means that regrowth takes a long time. The risk of extinction is real, and today there are no reliable figures on the amount of remaining trees and the damage to existing stands that has already been done," says Caroline S.S. Franca, Ph.D. student in Physical Resource Theory at Chalmers.

Mapping where risks are greatest

Caroline S.S. Franca is the lead author of a research study on the risks for illegal logging of ipe in Brazil, which was published in Nature Sustainability. In the study, "Quantifying timber illegality risk in the Brazilian forest frontier," the researchers analyzed extensive amounts of data to identify where in the supply chains there are significant risks that logging has taken place illegally.

The conclusion is that more than three-quarters of all ipe from Parathe top producing state of this wood in Brazil and a major source of exportsin the period 20092019 may have been illegally harvested.

"In the study, we see, for example, that 16% of the ipe that ends up on the market is harvested without proper permits, and that landowners claim that they have felled more ipe on their land than is likely to exist on the stated area. We also show that there is more wood in circulation than the official production figures indicate," she says.

Paving the way for better enforcement and practices

"We know that illegal logging is driving forest degradation, and is linked to organized crime, conflict and the destruction of forest-dependent local communities," continues Caroline S.S. Franca, adding that "degradation of Amazon forests does not only affect the local environment and the ecological diversity of the rainforest, it is also as large of a contributor to climate change as outright deforestation."

She hopes that her research results can contribute to an increased awareness of the extent of illegal logging among decision-makers and actors in the supply chain, as well as among consumers.

"The novel methods developed in the study, exploring existing patterns in the data for transactions and approvals of ipe exploration have an enormous potential both to improve forest control systems in Brazil, as well as to support supply-chain actors in their efforts to make timber sourcing more responsible and sustainable," says Marco Lentini, a co-author of the study with a long-standing experience working on sustainable forest management in the Brazilian Amazon.

The information already exists, now there is political will to use it

Recent numbers form Brazil's forest monitoring system shows that deforestation in the Amazon have been almost halved in 2023, compared to last year. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva also initiated the so-called Belem Declarationan alliance among eight South American countries to combat the deforestation of the Amazon, adopted on August 8, 2023.

"This declaration is a welcome expression of renewed political will to reduce deforestation," comments Martin Persson, co-author of the ipe study and a Chalmers researcher with extensive experience of research on the devastation of the Amazon.

But he also emphasizes that the danger is far from over, and that the declaration itself will not lead to change.

"Halting deforestation and forest degradation requires concrete policy measures. And what we point out in our study is that there is already data and information that can be used by authorities to get to those who harvest forests illegally," he says.

Important for consumers to ask questions

There is a certification for sustainably produced wood, FSC, which can serve as a guide for consumers who want to avoid buying non-sustainable or illegally harvested wood. But regardless of whether the wood has an FSC certification or not, Caroline S.S. Franca emphasizes that it is always important to ask a few basic questions before buying.

"Where exactly does the wood come from? Is there documentation of the origin of the wood and its path through the production chain? As a consumer, you have a greater opportunity to make an informed decision if you get answers to those questions," she says.

More about the ipe market

Brazil is the country of origin for 96% of all ipe on the market.

Brazil's exports of ipe have increased by over 76% in volume between the period 20102021.

85% of the demand for ipe comes from European, American and Canadian markets. 45% of exports go to Europe.

Since 2017, at least 525,000 metric tons, or 470,000 cubic meters of ipe, have been exported from Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Peru.

At least two-thirds of the species exported as ipe from the Amazon region in 20172021 are on the IUCN list of species threatened with extinction. Ipe is also on the list of species threatened by overexploitation due to international trade.

FSC, the Forest Stewardship Council, works to ensure that the world's forests are managed more sustainably. With FSC-controlled wood, the risk of the wood coming from unacceptable sources, such as illegally harvested wood or wood from forests with endangered high conservation values, is limited.

More information: Caroline S. S. Franca et al, Quantifying timber illegality risk in the Brazilian forest frontier, Nature Sustainability (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s41893-023-01189-3 Journal information: Nature Sustainability
Aljazeera said that the family of its chief correspondent in the Gaza Strip, identified as Wael Dahdouh, was killed by an Israeli airstrike in the region while he was helping broadcast live images of the embattled territory.

Dahdouh heartbreakingly found out that his wife, son, and daughter were all caught in the airstrike on Wednesday and lost their lives. Moments after discovering the news, the Qatari-based satellite channel switched to footage of Dahdouh as he entered al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza.

Death of Aljazeera Gaza Correspondent's Family

They then gave way to grief as he peered over the lifeless body of his son. While kneeling over his son's bloodied body, Dahdouh said, "They take revenge on us in our children?" as he still wore the protective press vest he used while working that day.

The correspondent's grandson was also declared dead two hours later and the video was expected to reverberate across the Arab world. The 53-year-old journalist is a well-known face of Palestinians during many wars throughout history, as per PBS NewsHour.

The media outlet said Dahdouh's family died after an Israeli airstrike struck Nuseirat Refugee Camp. The camp was located in an area of Gaza where the military had encouraged people to go if they needed to be safe. It added that several other relatives were still missing and it was unclear how many others were killed by the assault.

The correspondent's family were among the more than 1 million Gaza residents displaced by the Israel-Hamas war. Gaza's Health Ministry said that Israeli's retaliatory strikes have killed more than 6,500 Palestinians, which is a number that has not been independently verified.

The fighting between Israel and the Hamas militant group has resulted in the death of more than 1,400 in Israel. Most of these were civilians killed during the group's initial assault in the Middle Eastern country's southern region.

Read Also: Israel's Gaza Invasion Delayed as Requested by US

Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza

The situation comes as Jerusalem's leaders have vowed to completely wipe out Hamas in response to the group's attacks. According to CNN, the weeks-long siege on Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis inside the enclave, which has not been cut off from the rest of the world by a near-total blockade.

Drone footage from Monday showed the level of destruction across several parts of the Gaza Strip. They showed entire streets flattened in the al-Rimal neighborhood in Gaza City and lines of buildings that were destroyed, known as al-Zahra towers in central Gaza.

Dahdouh said that the attack that killed his family was part of the ongoing targeting of women and children in Gaza. He added that he was reporting about the Israeli airstrikes targeting the Nuseirat area.

Aljazeera said that it was deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of its colleagues in Gaza. It also held Israeli authorities responsible for their security. The network urged the international community to intervene immediately and end the violence, especially the attacks on civilians to safeguard innocent lives, said the Daily Beast.

Related Article: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Cancels Israel Visit After Saying Hamas is Not a Terrorist Organization

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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Current plans for reducing water use along the Colorado River should be sufficient to stave off risks of reservoirs reaching critically low levels over the next three years, according to a new analysis by the federal government.

The Biden administration recently announced the results of its analysis, indicating that cuts in water use pledged earlier this year by California, Arizona and Nevada are likely to ease the threat of reservoirs declining to perilous lowsat least in the short term.

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation cited the wet year and the above-average snowpack in the Rocky Mountains as a key factor that has helped reduce the risk of a crash in supplies between now and the end of 2026, when the current rules for dealing with shortages expire.

The three states in May committed to reducing water use by 3 million acre-feet over three years, cutting usage by about 14% across the Southwest. Federal officials said those voluntary conservation efforts, largely supported by federal funds, allow the region to discuss new long-term rules for managing the river over the next two decades.

"We're already seeing the success of our work on the voluntary conservation measures," Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton said. "It's helping to stabilize the system for now, but also allows for a path to talk about sustainability for the future."

Aggressive and impactful reporting on climate change, the environment, health and science.

The Colorado River's two largest reservoirs remain at low levels, even after rising with runoff from this year's snowpack. Lake Mead is now 34% full, while Lake Powell sits at 37% of capacity.

Deputy Interior Secretary Tommy Beaudreau said the ongoing conservation efforts by states in the Colorado River Basin have helped ease the immediate risks of reservoirs "falling to critically low elevations that would threaten water deliveries and power production."

The federal government analyzed the water-saving agreement proposed by the states as part of a review focused on updating river management rules for the next three years.

Federal officials conducted a modeling analysis based on the latest hydrologic data and found that the states' water-saving proposal, when compared with other alternatives or taking no action, would reduce risks of reservoirs declining to critically low levels.

Based on these findings, officials designated the states' plan for reductions as their "proposed action" for further analysis. They also ruled out two other options that the federal government had initially put forward, which would have involved imposing cuts by following the water-rights priority system or by using an across-the-board percentage.

In its review document, called a revised draft supplemental environmental impact statement, the Bureau of Reclamation also said its analysis found "the risk of reaching critical elevations at Lake Powell and Lake Mead has been reduced substantially" by the wetter conditions in the watershed this year.

The Colorado River provides water for cities, farms and tribal nations across seven states from Wyoming to Southern California, as well northern Mexico.

The river's flow has declined dramatically since 2000, and research has shown that global warming driven by the burning of fossil fuels has worsened the long stretch of extremely dry years.

Scientists have found that roughly half the decline in the river's flow this century has been caused by rising temperatures, and that for each additional 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming, the river's average flow is likely to decrease about 9%.

The water-saving efforts pledged by the states this year are the latest in a series of incremental steps to adapt.

In 2019, as reservoirs were dropping, water managers agreed to reduce water use under a deal called the Drought Contingency Plan. But when those reductions were insufficient, the states agreed to additional cuts in 2021, which projections later showed would not be enough to address risks of Lake Mead declining toward "dead pool" levelsthe point at which water would no longer pass downstream through Hoover Dam.

In June 2022, Touton announced at a congressional hearing that the crisis of declining reservoir levels would require much larger reductions of 2 million to 4 million acre-feet per year, and she warned that the government had the authority to "act unilaterally to protect the system."

But negotiations among state water officials failed to produce an agreement for such large cutbacks.

After federal officials announced their initial plan in April to weigh options that the states opposed, another round of negotiations led to the states' consensus deal outlining water cutbacks for three years.

Much of the reductions in water use will be secured in exchange for federal funds from the Biden administration.

Federal officials have said some reductions will come by paying agricultural landowners and irrigation districts to conserve water. The details of those additional agreements are still being worked out.

Parallel to the short-term efforts to shore up reservoir levels, the federal government is starting to weigh options for new long-term river management rules that will take effect starting in 2027.

Scientists have said the region will need to come up with larger reductions in water use to address the river's chronic water-supply deficit and the effects of climate change.

Last week, the Bureau of Reclamation released an initial report outlining steps toward developing the new rules, which will replace 2007 guidelines for managing shortages.

The agency said it received more than 24,000 comment letters from agencies, organizations, tribes and individuals in the initial stage of this process, with comments focusing on topics such as the river's supply-demand imbalance, tribal water rights, conservation and sustainable solutions.

The Bureau of Reclamation plans to release a draft environmental review of long-term alternatives by the end of 2024.

Touton said the water-saving efforts that have begun will protect reservoir levels "while we continue to develop long-term, sustainable plans to combat the climate-driven realities" facing the Colorado River Basin.

"Providing the space and stability in the short term allows the basin to now bridge to the long-term conversation," Touton said.

As for the coming winter, the current strong El Nino has brought forecasts of wetter-than-average conditions in much of the West.

Touton said if there is more snow and rain, that would certainly help. "But we're not just counting on rain, in the long run, to save us."

In many comments submitted to the government, a common thread is a need for greater flexibility in the rules to adapt to extreme droughts and long-term aridification driven by climate change, said Elizabeth Koebele, an assistant professor of political science at the University of Nevada, Reno.

For one thing, Koebele has suggested analyzing "alternative triggers" for water management. That could mean using a measure such as the average flow over five years or 10 years to determine the severity of a shortage and necessary reductions, instead of using reservoir levels alone to trigger responses.

Koebele and fellow expert Margaret Garcia wrote in a letter to the government that the post-2026 guidelines should not only focus on balancing supply and demand, but also "consider the basin as a holistic and integrated system, rather than a series of storage reservoirs that are managed separately."

"Having rules that are more flexible than what we've got now is going to be really critical to making the basin sustainable in the future," Koebele said.

She said the above-average snowpack this year and the deal reached by the states "gave some room for the post-2026 process to really kick off and gain some momentum."

Others say they are concerned that much larger cuts will be needed, and that the region's water managers seem to be in a pattern of letting the states propose stopgaps that don't go nearly far enough.

John Weisheit, an environmentalist and co-founder of the group Living Rivers, predicted that federal officials are "going to defer to the states, because they're afraid of litigation from one state against another."

Weisheit has advocated more aggressive steps to plan for dwindling river flows, and has urged the government to consider draining Lake Powell and decommissioning Glen Canyon Dam to restore a free-flowing river upstream from the Grand Canyonan idea that some influential farmers have recently supported.

Weisheit said he thinks the plans laid out by the region's water managers to date are far from sufficient to prevent a damaging crash in water supplies.

"They shouldn't be creating bridges. They need to stop collapse. Because that's what they're going to get," he said.

2023 Los Angeles Times. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Scientists may be on the verge of taking a big step closer to the net-zero carbon emissions goal, thanks to University of Houston research into algae. Hidden potential is being revealed in the major algae studies at the microbial products lab, located at UH at Sugar Land.

The research project is detailed in an article in Green Chemistry titled "Potential of Using Microalgae to Sequester CO 2 and Processing to Bioproducts."

Venkatesh Balan, associate professor of engineering technology in UH's Cullen College of Engineering's Division of Technology, and lead author of the article, is exploring surprising traits among small fresh- and salt-water phototropic (light-sensitive) organisms referred to as microalgae.

Microalgae can sequester carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) from the atmosphere. But it is its ability, through a series of processes, to convert its captured CO 2 into mass-produced proteins, lipids and carbohydrates that most interests Balan and his team of researchers.

"This green process goes beyond climate issues. For example, it may even transform the way we produce our food," said Balan, who has been studying algae for seven years. His research evaluates the potential of using microalgae to treat wastewater and use algal biomass to produce food, fertilizers, fuels and chemicals.

Algae grown in freshwater treatments, such as spirulina, is being used in health supplements and cosmetics. In the future, microalgae could be used as sustainable feed stock for producing biofuels and biochemicals that could lessen dependency on fossil fuels.

Microalgae's most immediate superpower, however, is its potential to play a key role in the answer to the worldwide global warming.

"We are experiencing climate change. This summer's 100-degree heat that lasted three months here in Texas, and in several other parts of the world, had never been seen before. That is a testament to climate change. No one can deny it," Balan said.

The greenhouse effectin which certain gases are blanketing Earth's atmosphere, trapping heat closer to the planetspeeds up the warming. Greenhouse gases can comprise any gas that absorbs infrared radiation. In Earth's atmosphere, CO 2 and chlorofluorocarbon are the main factors.

"There is much interest among lawmakers and policymakers, even among companies that emit greenhouse gases, to find alternatives, especially for those emitted from industry," Balan said.

But industry cannot be blamed for all the pollution problems that haunt us, he said. "On your table or in your pantry, you see food products. What's harder to visualize are the greenhouse gases emitted by the orchard that grows the fruit, the factory that makes the breakfast cereal, the transportation that brings the cookies to your neighborhood, even your own commute to buy the food. It adds up, but the problem is easy to ignore because we can't see it. Yet all consumers contribute, in our own way, to the greenhouse effect."

So, if CO 2 and other chemicals are damaging our climate, how do we deal with the excess CO 2 in our atmosphere? Until now, most of the scientific world has discussed capturing CO 2 and burying it, possibly under an ocean or other large body of water, which is an expensive, energy intensive proposition.

"We are coming up with the alternate approach of using algae to fix the CO 2 then using the carbon to make bioproducts that are useful to mankind," Balan said.

Balan and his research assistant Masha Alian recently discovered algae can be used as substrate to produce fungus, another useful tool in achieving net zero carbon footprint. The symbiotic relationship between algae and fungi can be found in lichen, which is a composite organismpart algae, part fungi. A common site in rural Texas and elsewhere, lichen is a preferred food of deer and other animals that nibble it from the trunks of trees where it grows in the wild.

In Balan's lab, researchers are trying to mimic how lichen grows in nature. "The algae produce oxygen, and the fungi stabilizes CO 2 and produces oxygen," Balan explained. As a bonus, much of the food bed comprised of algae and fungus could be converted into healthy food products.

More information: Venkatesh Balan et al, Potential of using microalgae to sequester carbon dioxide and processing to bioproducts, Green Chemistry (2023). DOI: 10.1039/D3GC02286B Journal information: Green Chemistry
(Photo : Ken Ishi-Pool/Getty Images)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is believed to be planning to meet with United States President Joe Biden during his trip to Washington for diplomatic talks.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to meet with United States President Joe Biden later this week for diplomatic talks after the top Chinese official meets with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on Friday.

The White House declined to comment about the potential diplomatic talks and it remains unclear how substantial Biden and Wang's possible interaction will be. However, even an informal greeting would be the Democratic president's senior-most interaction with the Chinese government since briefly meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

US-China Relations

The meeting between Biden and Li occurred on the sidelines of the Group of 20 Summit held in New Delhi, India, last September. The potential meeting between Biden and Wang comes as US and Chinese officials set the stage for a long-sought, one-on-one meeting between Biden and President Xi Jinping.

The two world leaders are planning to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco that will be held in November. The last meeting between the two presidents was at a summit in Bali in November last year, as per Reuters.

The top Chinese diplomat is also set to meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his Washington visit from Thursday to Saturday. Several top US officials, including Blinken, met their Chinese counterparts this summer.

The Chinese foreign minister is the top foreign affairs official in the Chinese Communist Party and has been appointed to the position since the dismissal of Qin Gang in July. During a Wednesday press conference, Biden said he plans to "compete" with China "according to the international rules - economically, politically, and other ways."

However, the Democratic president said he was not looking for conflict and warned Chinese officials against aggression toward the Philippines. On Wednesday, Xi said that China is willing to cooperate with the US as both sides try to manage their differences and work together to respond to global challenges.

Read Also: Philippines to China: Stop 'Dangerous,' 'Offensive' Actions in South China Sea

Avoiding Worst-Case Scenarios

American officials have repeatedly discussed creating "guardrails" to prevent worst-case scenarios. According to Yahoo News, they have also sought to restore contact between the two nations' militaries even as powers disagree strongly on issues from trade to Taiwan.

Biden warned China over the Philippines after Washington's Asian ally said that Chinese vessels deliberately hit Manila's boats in dispute-rife waters. However, this was an allegation that Beijing disputed.

The US president said any attack on Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces would invoke their mutual defense treaty with the Philippines. Biden has continuously championed allies in the face of China's growing influence and has even forged a new three-way military alliance with Australia and Britain.

The US president said he had previously talked to Xi about the latter's concerns, saying they are not "surrounding China." He said they were merely ensuring the sea lanes remain open.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning said they hoped Wang's visit would help calm tensions between the US and China. She noted that they wanted to get relations back on the track of health and stable development, said Channel News Asia.

Related Article: Chinese President Xi Jinping Kicks Off New Plan for Belt and Road Initiative To Address Chip Restrictions

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Chinese doctors complete innovative targeted therapy for liver cancer

Xinhua) 10:00, October 26, 2023

GUANGZHOU, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A hospital in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen said Wednesday that its doctors have successfully completed an innovative targeted therapy for liver cancer, achieving a new breakthrough in the field.

With the support of an organ maintenance system, doctors of the Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, ensured that high-concentration chemotherapy drugs only targeted the cancerous part of a patient's liver, leaving the healthy part of the liver and the whole body unaffected.

The patient in the case is a 55-year-old with advanced-stage liver cancer, with a relatively large tumor located in the right lobe of the liver.

In response to the situation, the hospital's team collaborated with Professor He Xiaoshun's team from the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, applying for the first time the "organ-targeted therapy" proposed by He's team.

According to He, during surgery, after separating the left and right lobes of the liver, the doctors immediately inserted a catheter into the cancerous part of the right lobe and connected it to a perfusion device.

Using the "multi-organ maintenance system" developed independently by He's team, the doctors maintained the blood supply and vitality of the right lobe, effectively keeping the right lobe's blood in "extracorporeal circulation." The chemotherapy drugs were continuously infused for two hours to deactivate the tumor tissue.

Subsequently, in mid-October, the patient successfully underwent a right hepatectomy, and the tumor markers for liver cancer decreased by nearly 90 percent after chemotherapy. A pathological examination showed that there were no live tumor cells in the right lobe of the liver.

Currently, the liver function and the overall condition of the patient have significantly improved.

He noted that the patient did not experience common side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea, vomiting and hair loss, indicating that the technique may offer promising new methods in cancer chemotherapy.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
After a year of mourning for the victims of last year's deadly Halloween crowd crush in Seoul, Itaewon, the parents still have not received any official apology and accountability for their children's deaths.

The crowd crush killed 159 people, and the parents were still seeking justice as officials ignored their requests to hold them responsible and accountable.

South Korea's Deadly Halloween Crowd Crush

After the incident, victims' families accused the authorities of shifting the blame to their children being under the influence of drugs during the incident.

The parents said the officials ignored their requests and failed to investigate independently to establish responsibility and accountability. The police identified the crowd crush as a "man-made disaster" due to a lack of preventive measures, including crowd control and delayed response from the authorities.

According to The Guardian, the raids came a day after the agency recognized Seoul police failed to act for hours despite receiving at least 11 emergency calls from pedestrians. The calls were to notify the authorities about the swelling crowd of Halloween celebrants ahead of the crush on Saturday in a narrow alley near Hamilton Hotel.

The families have not received an official apology, and their request to talk to President Yoon Suk Yeol was not acknowledged.

However, Kim Gi-hyeon, the head of South Korea's ruling People Power Party, argued that North Korea set up candlelit burials, memorial services, and demands for accountability.

"Why did the state do an investigation amongst themselves, those who are at fault?" Kim Hee-Jung said the mother of Choi Min-seok, who died in the crowd.

Lee Jeong-min, the father of Lee Joo-young, who also died that night, also stated that they all wanted to know how and why their children died.

Read Also: Japan: Social Media Users Criticize Popular YouTubers' Train Fare Dodgers' in Uploaded Videos

Parents Recall Tragic Crowd Crush

Kim Hee-Jung said she was still not ready to send her son to his memorial hall. She said that even though they were still alive, it felt like they were lifeless, like her child.

The tragic night is still vivid in the memory of Kim Hee-Jung as she recalls receiving a heartbreaking call from her son's phone, with an unfamiliar voice notifying her that her son was receiving CPR and telling her to rush to Itaewon. She went to look for her son in Itaewon and found his son's body in a mortuary for homeless people.

Lee Jeong-min, the father of another victim, shared that he rushed to the scene after receiving a call from his daughter's fiance, saying that his daughter had lost consciousness.

He said the night was pure chaos, and emergency vehicles had no smooth passage. He added that many victims needed immediate medical treatment, but authorities failed to fulfill this crucial role.

On Wednesday, Interior Minister Lee Sang-min said he feels sorry and has an infinite sense of responsibility, but there has been no official apology.

Related Article: Itaewon Halloween Stampede: South Korea Vows Thorough Investigation Into Tragic Crowd Crush That Killed Over 150 People, Injured Hundreds





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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is in search of applicants for $976,622 in Volunteer Fire Assistance grant funding to help rural fire departments protect public safety and natural resources.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by DEC Forest Rangers. Fire departments will receive 50/50 matching funds up to $2,500, a $1,000 increase from last year. In 2022, the program provided $1,500 grants to 444 fire departments, according to the DEC.

Only expenses directly related to wildland firefighting suppression efforts are eligible, including the purchase of portable pumps, portable backpack pumps, hand tools, fire hose, approved lightweight fire-resistant clothing, hard hats, turnout gear, portable radios, generators, and dry hydrants, the DEC said.

Expenditures unrelated to firefighting, such as search and rescue, acquisition of land, construction of buildings and facilities, major apparatus purchases, and maintenance items are not eligible for funding.

Eligible fire departments include: those that serve a single town with a population under 10,000; those that serve multiple communities, one of which is a rural town of less than 10,000 residents; and fire departments in towns with a population of 10,000 or more that meet the application requirements.

The application deadline is November 15.
BRIDGETON  Cumberland County has reached a settlement in a lawsuit that said inmates at its jail were subjected to illegal strip searches after being arrested by police.

County Superior Court Judge Niki Arbittier ordered the settlement to proceed after the lawsuit claiming unjust searches was filed in May 2020, according to court records filed Monday.

Under the agreement, those people would be entitled to $450 in compensation, costing Cumberland County no more than about $2.25 million, court records state.

Attorney Joseph DePalma represented the county in the case. He could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday.

The lawsuit was filed by Oliver T. Barry on behalf of Jamar Parrish, Darius Snead, Samuel Rosado and William Garrison.

The complaint initially only named Parrish and Snead.

The plaintiffs legal team, according to the settlement, identified about 5,000 people eligible for compensation, should they file a claim.

Those eligible were strip searched between May 8, 2018, and May 6, 2022, the settlement states.

Those people were identified through the litigation process, the document says.

Compensation would be made within 30 days of a claims deadline, the settlement states.

Barry said Wednesday he was satisfied with the settlement and that any unclaimed money would benefit local organizations.

Those are things Im very proud of, Barry said.

Parrish and Snead sued over being forced to undergo strip searches at the jail against New Jersey law, which prohibits the practice for non-indictable offenses.

Both men were brought to the jail between September and October 2019, according to the complaint.

Both were seeking monetary damages and to have the jails practices be deemed unlawful and unconstitutional.

The men also sued for a judge to issue an injunction to stop the practice. During the legal process, however, the jail discontinued the practice without being ordered to do so by the courts, Barry said.

One of the important pieces of litigation is to address the practice itself, Barry said.

Various lawsuits have been filed against the jail over purported malpractice. In May, the county and the U.S. Department of Justice reached a settlement on the federal governments case that the jail failed to appropriately provide mental health resources to inmates, violating the U.S. Constitution.

The county has been working to close the facility, sending inmates to other jails throughout the state. One of those plans included expanding the Atlantic County jail to take in Cumberland inmates, a plan nixed last year by local lawmakers.
ATLANTIC CITY  As the city continues to deal with homeless people living under and around its iconic Boardwalk, the mayor says the new Boardwalk Improvement Group has been working since early this year to make visitors and residents feel safe there.

BIG was started by the city, state and Casino Association of New Jersey, Mayor Marty Small Sr. said Wednesday during a news conference.

It now includes an internal app called See It, Click It, Fix It, which is shared by all BIG members, so quality-of-life problems can be easily reported to all and addressed.

Small also talked about the city's new homeless outreach initiative that is sending social workers out daily to engage with the unhoused citywide.

"We hired 10 full-time people and a plethora of trucks and other equipment to give us the tools (to succeed)," Small said as he stood on a section of Tennessee Avenue between Atlantic and Pacific avenues.

It's an area frequented by folks who loiter and panhandle, Small said.

"These people are not 'Atlantic City homeless.' These people just happen to be in Atlantic City," Small said. "I say it all the time, it's Greyhound therapy."

That's a term used to describe other municipalities sending their neediest to Atlantic City on buses for help.

Atlantic City police say their pay scale should equal firefighters' Atlantic City's police force, which has an ongoing problem recruiting and retaining officers, now has another hurdle to attracting talent, according to the president of the local police union: rising firefighter pay.

"Why? Because we have supreme social services," Small said.

Kenneth Mitchem, city director of community services, said the homeless outreach program has been running since March. In the past two months it has found permanent housing for 10 formerly homeless individuals, he said, including most recently a woman and her two young children who had been evicted.

About 3 in 10 people contacted by city workers actually want to be helped, Mitchem said. The others decline services.

The effort is funded by Clean and Safe funds, part of the amended casino payment-in-lieu-of-taxes bill, Small said.

He also said he is working with the state to hire a "homeless czar" to work here.

The state would not allow City Council to force the needle exchange to move out of the city, Small said. It also rejected Small's idea to move homeless and other social services to the Ancora Psychiatric Hospital in Winslow Township, Camden County, he said.

At the October City Council meeting, Councilman Bruce Weekes proposed a citywide effort to control the homeless and drug- and alcohol-addicted population that loiters, drinks and uses drugs openly, panhandles and makes visitors and residents feel unsafe.

"If the state isn't willing to relocate social services, it is up to us to focus on enforcement," Weekes said at the council meeting, where he gave a presentation on his proposal.

Candidates differ on offshore wind, immigration and more in 2nd District debate The candidates for state Senate and Assembly in the 2nd District debated Thursday night at Stockton University and stayed civil with each other even as they argued over allegedly unfair political ads and their accomplishments.

His plan would be funded through a public-private partnership, he said, of the city and stakeholders such as South Jersey Gas, Atlantic City Electric, the Showboat hotel, the city's casinos and the cannabis consortium.

Each would pay an annual fee to hire 36 new staff members dedicated to enforcing ordinances on everything from parking to more serious offenses, Weekes said.

Under his plan, casinos would pay a total of $822,000, the city about $395,000, hotels about $132,000, various utilities and business groups $40,000 to $66,000, with amounts going down to about $20,000 from AtlantiCare.

"We recently made it illegal to be panhandling at drive-in windows or gas pumps," Weekes said at the council meeting, but that ordinance means nothing if it is not enforced.

The unit also would focus on city parks and enforcing noise ordinances in neighborhoods.

"Our house should be clean. Our children deserve to go from Head Start nursery to the library without seeing people shooting up and nodding off," Weekes said.

Small said the city's effort is a partnership with social service agencies that are working on similar efforts, such as the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority's Special Improvement Division, the state Department of Community Affairs, the casino association and groups like Jewish Family Service, Volunteers of America, Hope One Atlantic County and NJ Rise.

GALLERY: Atlantic City Boardwalk Improvement Group announcement
A $33.7 million contract has been awarded to replenish dunes at multiple points between Ocean City and Sea Isle City.

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company of Oak Brook, Illinois, will perform the work, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Philadelphia District said Thursday.

The contract calls for the company to dredge more than 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from two borrow areas. One site is off Corsons Inlet, and the other is about three miles off Sea Isle, the Army Corps said in a news release.

The sand will be spread over 257,000 cubic yards in Ocean City from 45th to 59th streets, 456,000 cubic yards in the Strathmere section of Upper Township from Corsons Inlet to Jasper Road, and 640,000 cubic yards in Sea Isle City from 29th to 53rd streets and 73rd Street to Townsends Inlet.

The Army Corps anticipates the project beginning this fall or winter.

After being moved, the sand will be graded and placed into the identified dunes, designed to protect the shoreline communities from coastal storm damage.

Access paths, fencing and other features will be installed or repaired as part of the contract, the Army Corps said.
Emil Frankel, a former U.S. assistant secretary for transportation policy, joins the podcast to break down the Israel-Hamas war in understandable terms.

With host Lynn Schmidt, columnist and St. Louis Post-Dispatch editorial board member, he also discusses greater threats to democracy here and abroad. The two ex-Republicans also laud President Joe Biden for his foreign policy accomplishments.

Related reading

Episode transcript

Note: The following transcript was created by Headliner and may contain misspellings and other inaccuracies as it was generated automatically:

Lynn Schmidt: Hi. My name is Lynn Schmidt, and welcome to the What Keeps You Up at Night? Podcast, the show where we discuss the big issues and worries facing America and the world, and then begin the conversations about how we can go about solving them. I am a columnist and editorial board member with the St. Louis Post Dispatch. I will be interviewing experts and politicians from across the country, from right to left on the political spectrum, as well as spanning the generations.

Lynn Schmidt: It is my pleasure to welcome Emil Frankel to the podcast. Emil is currently an independent consultant on transportation policy and public management issues and a Senior Fellow at the Eno Center for Transportation. He was Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy of the US. Department of Transportation from 2002 to 2005. After being appointed by President George W. Bush, Emil played a key role in the coordination and development of the administration's proposal to reauthorize the federal highway, transit and highway safety programs. He received his bachelor's degree from Wesleyan University and his law degree from Harvard Law School, and was a Fulbright Scholar at the Manchester University in the United Kingdom from 1981 to 1984. And from 1985 to 1997, he was a trustee of Wesleyan University, where he is now a trustee emeritus. While email has vast governmental experience, I invited him here today to talk about the war in Israel with Hamas, as well as other threats to our democracy that we are facing today. So, welcome to the podcast. Emil. Frankel.

Emil Frankel: Thank you. Lyn great. And I appreciate your inviting me.

Lynn Schmidt: So what's keeping you up at night these days?

Emil Frankel: Emil well, I would say, I'm still most concerned, about the threats to American democracy. And I know you've been talking about that and interviewing a lot about that on your podcast, so I won't repeat that. But as a registered, Republican for 55 years, I left the party a week after or two weeks after Donald Trump was, elected president in 2016. So I'm now officially unaffiliated, although my, spirit and heart still rests with the Republican Party as I knew it. I was one of the founding members of the Rippin Society in the early 1960s, early and mid-1960s, kind of a ginger group that sought to reform Republican, policy. At that point, we, obviously lost the battle for the soul of the Republican Party, although what the party has become, is nothing like the Republican Party. It's not the Republican Party. I mean, the rhinos, are led by Donald Trump. If there's ever a Republican in name only, it's Donald Trump. I assure you, abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, and even Ronald Reagan would not recognize the people who control the Republican Party today. And that's a threat to democracy. We can't have one of our two major parties, rejecting, as it does obviously, not every person within the party and not every office holder, but the majority. And the leadership essentially rejects American liberal democracy and the basic tenets, the rule of law, and the kind of values and norms. And we can't survive as a democracy under those circumstances. It's not just institutions and constitution and laws, its norms and norms and traditions depend upon people. That continues. And obviously, the election of 2024, not only the presidential election, but the congressional election and state legislature, state legislative elections, are obviously of tremendous importance in holding us back. I mean, we've had a succession of elections like this, so I'm not prepared to say it's the most important in American history, but each of them keeps us from going over the brink, and I'm hopeful that that will be the case in 2024. So that keeps me awake, I would say, also in the moment.

Emil Frankel: And I know, you'd like us to talk about, the situation in the world. And obviously this also is another threat, I mean, internationally, to liberal democracy, the dominance of the principles and the nations, not only the United States, but the nations that lead the way in terms of democratic values and institutions and leaders. And, I'm not an expert, obviously, as you can tell from my resume. I'm hardly an expert on national security or foreign policy issues. I'm an interested observer, and always have been. And obviously, am like any American Jew, deeply, affected and concerned about the circumstances in Israel today and, what looks soon to be a major, military, action by the Israeli, Defense Forces, the IDF, against the, unbelievable, atrocities of the terrorists, organized in Hamas. and kind of what it means not only again in terms of the future of democratic values in that part of the world, but what it means to, Judaism and to, its impact, not only, obviously, on the population of Israel, but on, Jews throughout the world, including, obviously, in the you know, I guess I would just add a couple of things before we kind of chat about this that, had never really been involved in, ah, community and philanthropic activities. I'd spent most of my life raised and lived in Connecticut, and, never, although I was a member of a Reform temple, I really did not engage in, these issues. I've become deeply engaged in the last few years, frankly, out of a concern of what was happening to the Israeli government, which we'll talk about in a know the rule under Bibi Netanyahu and this racist, super nationalist, ultra-orthodox coalition he's put together to keep him out of jail, is, an enormous threat to the whole idea of Israel, and very troubling. So that engaged me in a set of activities. I'm an active member of J Street. Some of your listeners will be familiar with J Street, and, I've gotten active in my Reform temple here in Washington, DC. On kind of educating, these issues. And then, lo and behold, on October 7, this, attack occurred. I don't know even how to describe it, not even a military attack. It was a, carefully planned, action by terrorists, against Israel for the purpose of killing Jews. And inflaming, Israel, and its goals were not territorial gains, but murdering and abducting and torturing, Jews. And, how to respond to it and what the implications are, is obviously of utmost importance, I think, for.

Lynn Schmidt: People who are not Jewish. It's hard to wrap your head around the idea that there is a whole group of a whole population, that there are people on this earth that want to have eliminated. I mean, we all know about the Holocaust, but it's almost like we're reliving it in real time now, right, where people, can really understand the threat that Jews face all over the world.

Emil Frankel: Well, this action on October 7, which we don't know, the involvement of Iran, there are a lot of things involved. I'm sure everybody knows that Iran finances sponsors, I'm sure was involved in the planning of this exercise. Maybe the timing, and we're certainly aware of is certainly the implication of my comments and my involvement. I'm committed to the two state solution. I think Israel's, the action in the Israeli governments, particularly for most of the last 16 years, led by Bibi Netanyahu, has been to prevent a two state solution, to prevent, a Palestinian state from emerging, to deprive the Palestinians in the West Bank of their human, rights. And frankly, under this particular government, this right wing government, which Netanyahu is just the face, I mean, he's a creature of this government more than its leader, because, as I said, he wants to avoid jail. And, if the government collapses, he may be convicted in his three corruption trials. That's what motivates him. And, this government, actually, I would say, and there's been more acknowledgement of this, is really sponsoring a program of settler extremism. Not only expansion of the settlements in the West Bank, but settler extremism and ethnic cleansing. They want to drive the Palestinians out of the West Bank, or at least the, large portions of the West Bank. And that's unacceptable. That's unacceptable in terms of the values of a liberal democracy. And I might say it is absolutely antithetical to the values of Judaism, which is welcoming of strangers and recognizing basic rights, human rights, Palestinian as well as Jewish, Muslim as well as Jewish. But Hamas is dedicated, unlike the Palestinian Authority, which is weak and corrupt and all the rest. But the Palestinian Authority seeks, is committed to a two state solution that is, an Israel and a Palestinian state, side by side. Hamas is not Hamas'charter is for the destruction of Israel and the murder and elimination of Jews as people. That's what Hamas is all about. And that's what this was all. You know, again, I'm not an expert, but I have no doubts that the atrocities, the beheading of babies and soldiers, the rape, gang rapes of women, the abductions, et cetera, et cetera were designed to have maximum shock value, if I can put it that way. Because Hamas wants the IDF to undertake a ground incursion into Gaza. And I'm fearful about the effect and results of that, I might say. But, they think they can force the IDF into a stalemate, and a bloody stalemate with maximum casualties, in this case, to the soldiers in IDF. And so that's a real concern. But that's what they're about. They want to kill Jews and, destroy Israel.

Lynn Schmidt: There may be listeners that do not understand what the two state solution is. Can you maybe give a little bit of an overview about what that is?

Emil Frankel: Well, it kind of goes back to, the early 1990s. I might add tangentially, Lynn, that as a Republican, I'm committed to these causes because every Republican administration from Nixon through Bush 43 was committed to the two state solution, was committed to ending the occupation, Israeli occupation of the West Bank, was committed to ending the settlements. It's only, under Trump and the power of the, religious right within the Republican Party that has forced a change, if I can put a total 180 degree change in the policies and commitments of Republicans. So I'm proud of being part of a Republican tradition that is committed to this. And it goes back to, actually, the Bush 41 administration. Secretary Baker was deeply involved in negotiations, and then there were direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. In 1993, I guess it was led to the so called Oslo Accord. Right? And the goal of the Oslo Accord was two states side by side that the Israelis with adjustments in the border as a result of the 67 war but essentially, two states a Palestinian state and an Israel side by side, hopefully living in peace and friendship. But some continued rights for the Israelis to prevent militarization of the Palestinian state. And that was what was supposed to happen. And then, in one of the most successful actions, I regret to say, undertaken by any individual, a super nationalist religious right Jew assassinated Yitzhak Rabin. And, a year or two later, Benjamin Netanyahu was against the two states, these two states, side by side, and withdrawal from many of the settlements far into the West Bank and so forth. He was determined to prevent that from happening. And he's been successful. He's been prime minister for 16 of the last 19 or 20 years, and has been successful in preventing the, goals of the Oslo Accords and of the Bush. And then the Clinton administrations, Bush 41 and Clinton administrations from, being achieved.

Lynn Schmidt: So email and I were standing up for democracy, really.

Emil Frankel: Yeah. Incidentally, you maybe have done this in earlier podcasts, but I also would urge, everyone to read Jeffrey Goldberg's, story article about General Milley.

Lynn Schmidt: Yes, we'll try to link that as well.

Emil Frankel: Yeah, I think the title of the article is The Patriot. And again, another person who, at key moments, stood up and protected, a rule of law, constitution, and American liberal democracy.

Lynn Schmidt: So, Emil, how are we going to get ourselves out of.

Emil Frankel: You know, step by don't? In the short and medium term, I don't have much hope for the Republican Party, such as nominally, it still is, and I think we just have to keep fighting this, particularly at the moment. The protection of the rule of law domestically is really critical. I mean, the courts continue to do their job, and prosecutors and so forth, and that has to be honored and respected. They've been stalwart generally, in terms of protecting, our institutions, and we have to stay with it, continue to try to support, despite the chaos within the Republican Party and the growing opposition, the isolationism of the Republican Party, which Dwight Eisenhower overcame in 1950.

Lynn Schmidt: Absolutely.

Emil Frankel: we have to kind of fight that battle again across the board to make sure we stay engaged in Ukraine, that we stay engaged in protecting. Know, I must say, and President Biden has been I think there's more going on in this than we know, I'm sure, but has also, I think made it clear to Netanyahu and the Netanyahu government that they need to be constrained not to overreach, not to act on emotion and a sense of vengeance. Because I think the risks in terms of a ground incursion into an urban environment are great. Our reaction to 911, unfortunately, was quite appropriate, I think, in the beginning. Our actions in Afghanistan initially, and overthrowing Taliban, and driving al Qaeda out of Afghanistan and so forth, and then the second Iraq War came along too much. Everybody acknowledges what that was, and I think the Israelis need to be careful, need to be respectful of the civilians in, Gaza, while they wage a war that the Israeli public demands. The Israeli public across the board, across the ideological progressive to national super nationalists are demanding, and I don't know whether it's achievable, I might say, but are, demanding that Hamas be destroyed. So it's pretty hard for the Israeli government, even a more liberal government, or centrist government, if you will, to stand up to that. But it's got to be done carefully, with discretion and constraint.

Lynn Schmidt: Yeah. Again, coming back domestically, I have hope for our country in the long term, because I interact with younger generations, and they give me hope. It's just getting through the short term, and that's the 2024 election I think, and we'll just have to just see what happens. But, again, I didn't invite you to talk about what keeps me up at night. But I think, we are in agreement that the threats to democracy here and abroad both weigh on us heavily.

Emil Frankel: Yes, for sure. And I appreciate the great job you're doing with your columns and podcasts to keep on making that point. I mean, that's part of the battle. It's going to be small steps and incremental steps and so forth to get us back on the right course. I think you have gotten to know me well enough. I am a bit glass is half empty kind of person, and I am concerned, pessimistic, if you will, in the short, but I remain optimistic in the long run. I think we'll get ourselves I'm not quite sure how, but I think we'll write the ship, in the long run.

Lynn Schmidt: Again, I go back to President Biden's speech last night where there was this overarching message about thinking about our values, our values as a country, as a United States. And if we can all just keep that going, I think we're going to be, let's, I guess.

Lynn Schmidt: Is there anything else you wanted to talk about, Emil, before we wrap it up?

Emil Frankel: Thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about issues that are really very important to me, to all of.

Lynn Schmidt: Us, I think, or they should be. Absolutely. Well, I want to thank Emil, for joining me on the podcast today. I hope listeners enjoyed this conversation as much as I did. Make sure you subscribe to this podcast on your favorite podcast platform so you won't miss an episode of what keeps you up at night. Thanks again, Emil.

Emil Frankel: Thank you. Lynn.
In a showcase of musical innovation, Amit Trivedi, the celebrated composer and musician, recently graced the city with his presence, offering fans and music enthusiasts a glimpse into his latest masterpiece, 'Songs of Trance 2.' This event was not your typical album launch but a Group Album Listening Session (GALS) where Trivedi shared the intricacies behind this musical odyssey. This album marks the second instalment in the 'Songs of Trance' series and has been released under his independent label, AT Azaad.

In an a conversation with the Pune Times Mirror, Amit Trivedi described how 'Songs of Trance 2' is a departure from its predecessor, promising to engage listeners with the art of storytelling through lyrics and music. Amid an intimate gathering of fans, the maestro revealed that several tracks were crafted with the mindset of the 'Generation Z' or 'Gen-Z.'

Acknowledging his own 44 years of age, Amit humourously admitted that the younger generation had imparted valuable lessons, including new-age concepts such as 'hookups,' 'situationships,' and 'ghosting,' which he skillfully weaved into this musical tapestry.

Comprising six distinct songs, 'Songs of Trance 2' transcends traditional genre boundaries and serves as a stark contrast to its predecessor, 'SOT1.' The artist treated his audience to a complete playthrough of the album, emphasising its core theme of love, which is interwoven with a diverse range of genres and a techno-trance influence.

When questioned about the name 'Songs of Trance,' Amit Trivedi explained, "Songs of Trance 1 was created during the initial phase of lockdown, a time when not just me but all of us were grappling with darkness and uncertainty. The first album emerged from that sombre state, whereas 'SOT2' is all about love and happiness."

Delving into the individual tracks, 'Jhoome Nain' captures a Gen-Z love story, while 'Bairi Birha' infuses an electrifying vibe, illustrating the miscommunications that often plague Gen-Z relationships, a situation aptly referred to as 'ghosting.' 'Puttha Paasa' masterfully blends traditional Punjabi music with an electronic backdrop, while 'Shariyat-E-Dil,' translating to 'The Law of the Heart,' presents a Sufi-ghazal with a distinct trance flair.

'Fursat' is a semi-classical composition that poignantly narrates the story of a naval officer's wife, her yearning, and sensuality during her husband's absence. Rounding off this musical journey is 'Jumme Raat,' a spine-tingling trance anthem that's bound to set the dance floor ablaze.
Prince Chaudhuri & Eeshwari Jedhe

A hefty fine of 3 crores 20 lakhs on Punit Balan the Chairman & Managing Director of PBG however, has strongly refuted the allegations, claiming the notice is illegal, PMC had accused the Shrimant Bhausaheb Rangari Ganapati Trust Utsav Prakham and Punit Balan of Oxyrich Company of defacing public property with unauthorized hoardings, banners, and boards during the Dahihandi festival.

Madhav Jagtap, Deputy Commissioner of Anti Encroachment Department sent the notice to Balan, demanding an explanation and the fine on the hoardings. While Balan says that the notice was deliberately sent to defame him personally, not the organization, and has submitted a counter-response to Jagtap.

This dispute has earlier caused unrest among the city's Ganesh Mandals, with workers protesting on the main entrance of PMC. In response to the public outcry, the PMC temporarily suspended the notice's implementation.

Punit Balan argues that a decision was made in a meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, exempting public festivals from charges for erecting pavilions on roads and footpaths during the Ganesh festival. He also cites resolutions to cancel license fees for certain structures approved by the local police department prior to 2019. Balan insists that the notice was intentionally sent to tarnish his reputation and demands its cancellation. He points out that imposing a penalty contradicts the government's promise of a fee-free festival. Balan argues that even the mention of recovering the fine hoardings is illegal. In light of these arguments, he urges the cancellation of the fine imposed.
A registered Scott County sex offender with two prior sexual abuse convictions is accused of sexually abusing a 14-year-old in 2021, Davenport Police said.

Charles Alvin Spicer Sr., 41, who has been classified as a sexual predator, is charged with one count of third-degree sexual abuse  second or subsequent offense.

Normally the charge is a Class C felony under Iowa law that carries a prison sentence of 10 years.

However, as Spicer has been convicted of sexual abuse in the past, the charge is filed as a Class A felony that carries an automatic sentence of life in prison without parole for those found guilty.

According to the arrest affidavit filed by Davenport Police Detective Sean Johnson, on Aug. 29, Davenport Police began investigating a report of sexual abuse that had occurred 2  to three years ago at Spicers residence in the 400 block of East 14th Street.

According to the affidavit, Spicer asked the victim to undress and then performed a sex act on the victim.

Spicer was arrested Tuesday.

During a first appearance Wednesday in Scott County District Court, Magistrate Paul Aitken scheduled a preliminary hearing in the case for Nov. 3.

Spicer was being held Wednesday in the Scott County Jail on a cash-only bond of $200,000.

Spicer was convicted of two counts of sexual assault on March 26, 2001, in Audrain County, Missouri.

On March 5, 2007, in Henry County, Iowa, District Court, Spicer was sentenced to a special sentence of 10 years in prison for a conviction of third-degree sexual abuse-incest, a Class D felony.

Spicer is currently awaiting trial in Scott County District Court on a charge of sex offender registration violation filed in August. Spicer is charged with failing to inform and register on the sex offender registry a boat that was in his possession.

That charge is a Class D felony that carries a prison sentence of five years. A hearing in that case is scheduled for Nov. 7.

What you missed this week in notable Quad-Cities crimes and court cases This week's local crime and court updates from The Quad-City Times. Local News alert top story Scott County judge gives Madison Russo probation in fake cancer theft case Authorities accused Madison Russo of stealing thousands of dollars donations by lying about having cancer.
Russia and China exercised their veto power on Wednesday, blocking a United States initiative at the United Nations Security Council.

The proposal aimed to address the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict by urging temporary ceasefires to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, protect civilians, and halt the arming of Hamas and other militant groups in the Gaza Strip, as per Reuters.

UN Security Council Over Gaza Conflict

The United States found itself at the center of global attention as it put forward a draft resolution at the United Nations Security Council. This move came only days after the US had vetoed a humanitarian-focused resolution from Brazil, citing the need for more time for US-led diplomatic efforts.

The situation raised concerns, especially given the initial bluntness of the US text, which unequivocally affirmed Israel's right to defend itself and demanded that Iran cease exporting arms to militant groups. Notably, the initial text did not include provisions for humanitarian pauses for aid access, which generated significant diplomatic shockwaves.

The double veto by Russia and China on the US resolution represented a rare and unexpected development. Historically, the United States has been known to shield its ally, Israel, within the United Nations framework. However, the gravity of the crisis in Gaza prompted the US to advocate for Security Council action.

Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US Ambassador to the UN, acknowledged the disappointing outcome of the vote, adding, "Though today's vote was a setback, we must not be deterred."

The vote saw ten member states support the US text, while the United Arab Emirates voted against it, and Brazil and Mozambique abstained. The response to the US resolution was mixed. China's UN Ambassador, Zhang Jun, criticized the draft, claiming it did not align with the global call for a ceasefire and an end to the fighting.

He emphasized that, at this moment, a truce was not merely a diplomatic term but a matter of life and death for countless civilians. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also urged a humanitarian ceasefire, underscoring the pressing need for diplomatic efforts to halt the hostilities.

With the Security Council facing a deadlock following the double veto, the focus shifted to the 193-member UN General Assembly. On the horizon was a vote on a draft resolution submitted by Arab states, which called for a ceasefire.

Unlike the Security Council, the General Assembly does not have member states with veto power. Although resolutions passed in the General Assembly are non-binding, they carry substantial political weight, according to NDTV.

Read Also: Israel's Gaza Invasion Delayed as Requested by US

Israel's Pledge Amid Rising Casualties

The situation in Gaza had reached a critical point. Israel had pledged to eliminate Hamas, the ruling authority in Gaza, in retaliation for an attack on October 7 that claimed the lives of 1,400 people.

Israel had taken aerial strikes, imposed a siege on the enclave, and was preparing for a ground invasion. According to Palestinian authorities, more than 6,500 individuals have lost their lives.

Russia's UN Ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, criticized the US for introducing a draft resolution that effectively authorized a ground offensive by Israel in Gaza, arguing that it would result in the deaths of numerous Palestinian children. Following the double veto, the Security Council voted on an alternative resolution drafted by Russia.

This resolution called for a humanitarian ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israel's order for civilians in Gaza to relocate south in anticipation of a ground assault. Fortunately, the Russian resolution encountered a major setback, as it only received four votes.

For a solution to be passed, it must receive a minimum of nine votes and avoid any vetoes from the Security Council's permanent members, namely the United States, France, Britain, Russia, and China. This marked Russia's second attempt at passing a resolution related to the Gaza crisis, with the previous effort receiving support from just five council members on October 16.

In response to the impasse at the Security Council, the ten elected members began discussing a new draft resolution. Malta's UN Ambassador, Vanessa Frazier, emphasized the growing risk of a regional spillover and called for the world's undivided attention, highlighting the duty and obligation to take action.

The crisis in Gaza has become a flashpoint on the international stage, with the United States facing the challenging task of balancing its support for Israel with growing global demands for a ceasefire and humanitarian relief in the conflict-ravaged region. As the situation unfolds, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution to end the suffering of the people of Gaza, The Washington Post reported.

Related Article: Hamas Terrorist Boasts of Killing 10 Jews in Phone Call to Parents, Israeli Officials Reveal Audio

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In the global race to directly detect dark matter, a project in South Dakota has lapped the field.

LUX-ZEPLIN (LZ), a next-generation dark matter experiment funded by the United States Department of Energy Office of Science, is located nearly a mile below the surface at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in Lead. This summer, results published from the first 60 days of the search put LZ in the pole position against other experiments in Canada, Korea, China, Europe and elsewhere around the globe.

The analogy I like to use is, we've been constructing this race car, it's built, it's ready. So, we take it around the block for an initial spin  and we break the land speed record, said Dr. Chamkaur Ghag, the spokesperson for LZ and a professor of physics at University College London. So we are, for the first time, in completely clear, uncharted discovery territory. Were at the forefront of this race.

Scientists believe dark matter makes up most of the missing mass in the universe, but its invisible in everyday life  so how to do you see something that is essentially invisible? In the simplest sense, LZ is a thermos that contains slightly more than 10 metric tons of liquid xenon at the core. Many scientists believe the leading candidate for a dark matter particle is a WIMP, or Weakly Interacting Massive Particle. Researchers believe some of the particles of dark matter streaming through every square inch of the universe will interact with some of the xenon atoms. You can think of this interaction as two pool balls colliding. When this reaction happens, it will cause a tiny flash of light to occur at the center of the xenon chamber, possibly indicating dark matter.

But seeing a dark matter interaction is a little like trying to hear a pin drop at a massive rock concert. The only way to pick out the minuscule noise of the pin hitting the floor  amidst the waves of blaring guitar solos  is to filter out all the other sounds happening around the pin. LZ is located deep underground to help filter out the cosmic rays that constantly bombard the planet and make it difficult to detect rare dark matter interactions.

Many people have heard of the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. Its the biggest particle accelerator on the planet and it examines the near light speed collisions of subatomic particles.

LHC does loud physics, what we are looking at in LZ is the quiet side of physics, said Ghag. We are looking for low energy particles that almost never interact with matter. But seeing these rare particle interactions is not easy.

Experiment not for the faint of heart

In the field of physics, theorists explore the mathematical language we use to understand our universe. Based on the math, they put forward ideas, or theories. Dark matter is just one example. Experimentalists take ideas from theorists and design tests, or experiments, needed for validation. Over time, particle physics experiments have grown more complex and today, its up to engineers to build these large experiments.

Charles Maupin, one of the engineers who built LZ, will tell you engineering a major science experiment, nearly a mile underground, is in a class of its own. The challenges of a normal building project are compounded with the unique constraints of working 4,850 feet below the surface on highly sensitive equipment with zero tolerance levels for errors and a requirement to get it right the first time, every time.

Its like building a ship in a bottle, but the bottle neck is a mile long and you have to keep everything ultra clean and radiologically as pure as possible," Maupin said.

LZ took a full decade of planning and work before it was turned on. An ultra-clean space had to be constructed at SURF on the surface and underground. Each part of the detector had to be assayed for its own natural level of background radiation  parts with too much radiation could contaminate the experiment. A full radon mitigation system also had to be installed to reduce the natural levels of radon underground that could contaminate the results. The detector, which includes multiple nested tanks, thousands of feet of cables, and a range of highly sensitive components, was tested on the surface before the trip down the former mine shaft to the Davis Campus, 4850 feet below.

In every project of this complexity, unexpected events require occasional creative problem solving. Maupin and other engineers working on LZ had to occasionally find solutions on the fly.

"You would have one fitting type here and one fitting type there, and we got very good at what we jokingly called adapterizing, this is when you had to figure out what we could do with what we had on hand or what we could acquire on deadline that would work, he said.

That hard work paid off. LZ is up and running and taking data. For Maupin and other engineers at SURF, there is a sense of satisfaction in the effort.

I will say for the group on site, it is a source of pride. Were all from small communities around this region and we have been able to contribute to this world-class research right here at SURF, Maupin said.

In total, the LZ collaboration consists of about 190 scientists from 36 institutions in the U.S., U.K., Portugal and Korea. If LZ is successful at directly detecting dark matter, it would be groundbreaking in the world of physics, opening doors to new theories, new questions, and new innovation.

Is dark matter the next Copernican revolution?

Science has humbled us over time.

Copernicus, the 16th century mathematician and astronomer, was among the first to shatter the idea at the time that the sun revolves around the earth. He began the Western realization that we humans might not be so important in the bigger scheme of things.

Today we know that we inhabit what Carl Sagan called a pale blue dot, that sits in a small part of a vast solar system, in an insignificant part of a mind-blowingly large galaxy, that is all but meaningless to the rest of the unimaginably large universe.

Dark matter might be the next bit of science that reduces our hubris.

It's like another Copernican revolution, said Dr. Flip Tanedo, an associate professor of theoretical physics at the University of California, Riverside. Not only are we not located in any particularly special part of the universe, but the very things that we are made of, the chemistry of our entire universe, as we understood it pre-1900s, is not even the most predominant stuff of the universe.

Tanedos research seeks to discover how dark matter fits into our fundamental understanding of nature. Tanedo is excited by the experimental precision that has been reached by LZ.

This is a level of sensitivity, that I don't think we ever could have imagined 20 years ago, he said.

The fact that LZ has yet to report a dark matter signal is also telling.

LZ has, unfortunately, not yet discovered dark matter. What that really means is that the things we were expecting 20 years ago, seemed to have not panned out," he said. "And something much more exciting must be happening. It's throwing down the gauntlet for theorists to be more creative.

But the race isnt over.

If dark matter is in fact a particle that can be detected then we've known for a long time that we need an experiment something like the size of LZ, Ghag said. The fact that LZ is now operating, and planning is underway for the next generation beyond it, opens many doors for scientists to explore.

This is a playground where you can test theories and models for new physics, he added. But just the fact that we are here, all the technological work; the decades of experiments, research and development; the massive holes in the ground; the infrastructure and all the people supporting it  it's kind of incredible that all of this has come together to allow us to seek answers to these questions about our universe.

LZ is led by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of High Energy Physics and the National Energy Research Scientific Computing Center, a DOE Office of Science user facility. LZ is also supported by the Science & Technology Facilities Council of the United Kingdom, the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology, and the Institute for Basic Science, Korea.
A 62-year-old Rapid City man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison Tuesday for attempted enticement of a minor after he was arrested last summer for explicit conversations with someone he thought was a 14-year-old girl and who he attempted to meet at a local hotel.

When Donald Laun arrived at the Super 8 in Rapid City in August 2022, he was met by law enforcement and arrested. The girl he thought he was messaging was an undercover South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation agent.

"I thought I was gonna have a heart attack," Laun said about his experience of being arrested at gunpoint.

"I hope you do feel traumatized," District Court Judge Karen Schreier told him.

Laun was one of half a dozen local men caught during the annual multi-agency sting conducted amid the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The sting routinely leads to the arrest of primarily local men after they engage in conversations with underage personas and arrive at locations to meet them, only to be arrested by law enforcement.

Laun was charged with attempted enticement of a minor, which he initially pleaded not guilty to at his Aug. 8, 2022 arraignment. A year later, he pleaded guilty. The charge carries a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and five years of supervised release, which is exactly what the judge imposed.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Collins said at sentencing part of Laun's plea deal included law enforcement in Pennington County and in Idaho agreeing not to bring charges against Laun for similar crimes under investigation.

The Pennington County investigation involved a woman who testified during Laun's sentencing hearing that he allegedly abused her and her young daughter. Law enforcement began the investigation after Laun was arrested in the undercover sting, but agreed to drop it if Laun entered a guilty plea in the federal case against him.

"No little girl in the future deserves to go through what I went through and what my daughter went through," the woman said.

The child's father told the court the situation is a "weight that's on us every moment of every day."

"This is where we have the chance to end the cycle," he added.

The Idaho investigation involved alleged receipt of child pornography.

"He's frankly lucky," Collins said.

The language Laun used while talking with the undercover person was "disgusting and vulgar," Collins said. "He deserves every day of the 10 years."

On the other hand, one of Laun's family spoke on his behalf and painted a picture that contrasted how the government portrayed him. They described him as outgoing, remorseful and a "good man."

"He had a lapse in judgement, and he made a mistake," they said.

Laun addressed the court tearfully and began to sob before he could speak.

"I'd like to offer a grave apology to everyone," he said.

After thanking his family for their support, Laun said he never thought he would be sitting in a federal courtroom and guaranteed "that nothing like this will ever happen with me ever again."

He also lamented the "woman I loved for 25 years" and his two children ceasing contact with him.

Schreier told Laun, "none of this was a mistake."

"You've got to take your life in a different direction," she said before imposing his sentence.

Since there is no parole in the federal system, Laun will serve the 10 years before he is allowed out.
With the weight of the bench lifted from his shoulders, the now-retired U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey Viken sat over a cup of black coffee and reflected on his 46-year legal career and the human lives intertwined within it, the justice system, and his personal connection to Lakota culture.

My view has always been, its simply public service. This is no elevated position, he said.

From when he took the bench under former President Barack Obama's appointment in 2009 to retiring for good on Oct. 1, Viken sentenced over 1,700 felony cases. Those cases ranged from the all-too-routine child pornography possession to major drug distribution conspiracies, rapes, and senseless murders.

Sentencing hearings not only involve the judge deciding if someone is going to prison and for how long, but they provide a chance for the victim or the victims families to share with the court the impact serious crimes and murders have had on them. And its an opportunity for the convicted and their family and friends to speak.

Thats the most difficult part of the years Ive spent on the bench. I knew it would be, but its not theoretical when you put the robe on. Its real. Its real people with real human experiences, and the judge is the person whos taken the oath to approach those problems, Viken said.

When he was appointed in 2009, Viken put into place a touchstone for himself and for his staff.

We must treat all people with respect at all times and under all circumstances, he said.

The 71-year-old has seen the judicial system from nearly every angle. He worked as a federal prosecutor, a private attorney, a federal public defender, and finally as a judge seated in the imposing windowless federal courtroom in Rapid City overseeing trials and determining sentences in federal cases in the western division of South Dakota.

All through law practice for me and I think many lawyers and judges, the fascination is the kaleidoscope of human behavior, Viken said. You cant make up the most extraordinary and most difficult parts of human behavior. Its beyond the imagination of fiction writers, and its real life.

Viken was born in Huron in 1952. Throughout grade school he participated in speech and debate, which fueled his interest in research and public speaking.

Despite there being virtually no Native people living in Huron as Viken grew up, that love of research and speaking led to a fascination with Native history, treaty rights and violations  something left unaddressed in schools growing up.

In 1974, Viken graduated from the University of South Dakota with a bachelor of arts. In 1977, he earned his law degree from the University of South Dakota School of Law.

I went to law school with and for Native people, Viken said.

His thesis was Quick Bear v. Leupp: Amalgamation of Church and State on the Rosebud Reservation.

The United States Supreme Court heard the Ruben Quick Bear v. Leupp case in 1908. The case involved the separation of church and state and whether appropriated money could be used to support religious schools. The court ruled it could be.

Throughout his research  which included the university sending him to Washington, D.C. to visit the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, and the National Archives  Viken read every Secretary of War and Secretary of Indian Affairs report involving Native people from George Washingtons Administration through Teddy Roosevelt  the period of the case I was researching.

I learned enough to really develop a passion for people who are disadvantaged by virtue of history, Viken said.

Viken attended law school on the heels of the 1973 Wounded Knee Occupation, the American Indian Movement and the killing of two FBI agents on Pine Ridge. When he was hired as Assistant U.S. Attorney in 1977 at the age of 24, his trips to the reservation to speak with witnesses were overshadowed by FBI escorts.

I was trying to investigate cases and interview witnesses, but I could (only) do that in a huge black SUV with a line of antennas down the middle and two shotguns between the agents in the front seat, and Im going to go up to the door of somebodys home and tap on the door and ask to talk to somebody? Of course I got nowhere, he said.

Viken was adopted by a Lakota family through a traditional Hunka adoption.

We were really given the opportunity by Lakota people to engage in the culture, and I learned so much. This is not book learning. This is a cultural experience. Some people call it cultural competency. Well, that (takes) a lifetime (of) experience to develop, he said.

Viken continued in the position as a prosecutor until 1981. In 1981, he served as acting U.S. Attorney for South Dakota before entering into private practice from 1981 to 2003. From 2003 to 2009, he worked as a public defender for the districts of North Dakota and South Dakota.

On June 25, 2009, then-President Obama nominated him for a seat as the district judge, a position vacated by Lawrence Piersol. The United States Senate confirmed him on Sept. 29, 2009, and he received the commission the next day. He served as chief judge from 2013 to 2019. After announcing his intent to retire, Viken assumed senior status on Oct. 1, 2021.

When a judge enters senior status, it creates a vacancy in the court the president must attempt to fill with a nomination, but the judge can continue to work  ideally on a reduced caseload.

For Viken, the workload didnt decrease until 2022 when other federal judges took over the civil docket and he focused on criminal cases. Even then, he was working 60-hour weeks.

I have no way to have input or control over moving along a successor or any such thing, Viken said. Ive given them the opportunity to nominate and confirm and appoint a replacement. That hasnt happened. Thats not on me. Its not on my colleagues. Its the reality of the manner in which federal judges are nominated and appointed.

So, Viken made the decision to officially retire. His last court appearance was Sept. 19. His last day was officially Oct. 1.

Linda Lea and I have lives to live, Viken said.

Viken and his wife Linda Lea Viken have been married for 43 years. He met the force of nature in an advanced criminal procedure class in law school.

Linda Lea has had a successful legal and political career in her own right. She served as the first woman magistrate judge in Pennington County and in the South Dakota Legislature for a total of eight years  four years for Minnehaha County and four years for Pennington County.

Aside from their obvious connection as legal minds, the couple has enjoyed traveling the world together and intend to continue doing so.

Weve gotten out of the United States its fair to say once or twice a year for 43 years of marriage. Linda Lea is a wonderful traveler, Viken said.

Although President Joe Biden has not nominated a replacement for Viken, U.S. District Judges Karen Schreier and Lawrence Piersol from the Southern Division, U.S. District Judge Charles Kornmann from the Northern Division, and Chief U.S. District Judge Roberto Lange from the Central Division are all splitting the Western Division civil and criminal dockets.

They travel from their home courts in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Pierre to Rapid City for court hearings.

Theyre working far more than they ever should be expected to work. But theyre not only doing their own work, theyre keeping the court in the Western Division for civil and criminal cases active and going, Viken said.

Viken has expressed the importance of whoever replaces him to have an understanding of Lakota culture, as a large portion of cases in the federal court in Rapid City come from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
A 66-year-old man died Wednesday evening following a two-vehicle crash in Custer County.

A 2003 Ford Escape was traveling eastbound on U.S. Highway 16A near mile marker 33 at about 5 p.m., according to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety. The Ford was negotiating a left curve, slid on the slick road, and entered the oncoming lane. A 1973 Porsche 911 was traveling westbound at the same time and location. The front of the Ford collided with the drivers side of the Porsche.

The Ford spun around and came to rest on the highway. The Porsche entered the ditch and came to rest against a tree.

The 16-year-old male driver of the Ford sustained minor injuries. He was wearing a seatbelt.

The 66-year-old male driver of the Porsche sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was wearing a seatbelt.

The 64-year-old female passenger of the Porsche sustained minor injuries. She was wearing a seatbelt.

The names of the persons involved have not been released pending notification of family members.

The South Dakota Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. All information released so far is preliminary.
Snow is expected to accumulate in and around the Black Hills and northwest South Dakota Thursday as cold weather and moisture move into the region.

The greatest snowfalls will be near the borders with Montana, Wyoming and North Dakota, according to the National Weather Service in Rapid City. Buffalo has some of the highest estimated snowfall predictions and is expected to receive five to eight inches of snow. Belle Fourche is expected to receive one to three inches while most of the Black Hills, to include Rapid City, will receive less than 1 inch of snow.

With the increasing snow forecast in the northwest regions of South Dakota, the Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the area stretching from Buffalo to Lemmon. The highest rates of snowfall are expected Thursday afternoon and evening.

Roads will become slippery where snow accumulates making hazardous travel likely, the Weather Service said.

Wednesday evening cool temperatures caused freezing drizzle across the Black Hills leading to slick roadways. According to the Department of Public Safety, those conditions may have contributed to a fatal crash in Custer County.
When author Dave Eggers learned that his novel The Circle was targeted for banning and destruction by the Rapid City Area Schools Board of Education, he visited Rapid City and moderated a community conversation that pushed back against the school boards decision. The local battle over book bans is now the subject of a new documentary, To Be Destroyed, that should be online, and possibly screening in Rapid City, in 2024.

Rapid City Area Schools push to ban and destroy some books started with an email from a parent asking for a possible ban of the book How Beautiful We Were: A Novel, because of some sexually explicit content in a book. Eggers novel The Circle was one of five novels the Board of Education later identified for banning in 2022. The books  totaling more than 350 new copies  were removed from school shelves and slated to be destroyed.

The books had been part of a possible reading list in the high school curriculum for seniors, and last fall, the Board of Education opted to sell the books rather than destroy them.

Teachers, students and parents were incensed at the ban and decision to destroy the books. In May 2022, Mitzis Books in downtown Rapid City hosted a community conversation, which Eggers moderated, to invite those who opposed book bans to speak out.

The teachers are feeling fearful, Eggers told the Journal in an interview before the community conversation. They feel like their professionalism has been questioned and superseded. In all cases, these five books went through the (district) approval process.

Eggers visited Rapid City twice, in May and November 2022, at the invitation of local teachers and parents, to speak to students and visit classrooms where his book had been banned.

The mass destruction of books by school boards is an unconscionable horror, and the freethinking young people of South Dakota shouldnt be subjected to it," Eggers said.

Emmy-nominated filmmaker Arthur Bradford followed Eggers as he met with Rapid City students, teachers and citizens. Bradfords 30-minute documentary, To Be Destroyed compiles footage from Rapid City Board of Education testimonials, interviews and classroom interactions.

Bradford said To Be Destroyed aims to offer insight into how individuals closely involved grappled with issues such as the rights of students, teachers and readers.

Its my hope that this is an inspiring story, that the people of Rapid City, on all sides of this debate, feel like theyve been well represented, Bradford said. I personally found inspiration in the students who speak so well for this community and remind us all that education at its best, can be a two-way street."

Bradford and Eggers are longtime friends. Bradford said Eggers invited him to come to Rapid City for the community conversation.

This documentary is really about a snapshot of what we saw in Rapid City. We werent trying to make a documentary about book banning restrictions all over the country. It just seemed like an interesting event (moderated by) one of the writers of a book being taken off the shelves, Bradford said. We thought that would make an interesting story.

The other thing I was keen to do was talk to as many people in favor of restrictions as possible. We sought to speak with school board members who sought to restrict the books. I wanted them to explain, and I wanted to try to understand their motivation as well, Bradford said.

Overall, To Be Destroyed tells a good story about the battle over books, Bradford said.

Im not trying to project an agenda on anybody whos watching it, he said. I know there are parents who have concerns about whats taught in schools, and I would really like them to feel like they could watch this documentary and feel informed and feel like their viewpoint is represented.

My hope is this is the kind of thing that can be shown and watched in groups and people can talk about it, Bradford said. I think Rapid City worked really hard to try to resolve these issues, and it seems to be the teachers feel more heard now. I would love to know what the people of Rapid City think.

Rapid City, of course, is the most important community we could show it to, so well make sure we make a real event of it, with every possible stakeholder invited, Eggers said.

To Be Destroyed is being submitted to film festivals for roughly the next six months, Bradford said, and then he hopes to find a distributor to make the film more widely available. Meanwhile, an initial screening of To Be Destroyed took place Oct. 8 in Fargo, N.D.

The screening was held in conjunction with national Banned Books Week, an annual campaign that highlights current and historical attempts to censor books in libraries and schools and encourages the freedom to read.

Earlier this year, some of the nations most restrictive book banning bills were proposed and moved through the early stages of approval in North Dakotas House and Senate. One bill provided for 30-day imprisonment and $1,500 fines for librarians who displayed books deemed to be sexually explicit. Although the bills did not pass, the issue remains one with vehement support for and against book bans.

Weve been supporting teachers, librarians and booksellers for 25 years on the issue, but its never been this bad, Eggers said. It morphs and darkens every day. In Fargo, the state legislature were a few votes away from passing a bill that would jail librarians if so-called obscene materials were found on their shelves. A legislator from Fargo, Rep. Karla Rose Hanson, was at our screening, and she painted a picture of the atmosphere in the state house that was just absurd, and ahistorical. Anyone who would vote for such a proposal hasnt read the Constitution, isnt aware of vast caselaw on the issue of 'obscenity'  including high-profile cases involving Joyces Ulysses and Ginsbergs Howl  and the very nature of freedom of expression and freedom to access literature and information.

To a certain extent these anti-library votes are performative, because none of these laws can be enforced, but still, this moment in American history is scary for the towering, un-American ignorance that fuels it, Eggers said.

The response in Fargo to To Be Destroyed was phenomenal, Eggers said. He attended the screening, gave a book reading and signed books.

My favorite moment, and the one that audience members talked to me about afterward, was when Sean Bradley, a high school English teacher in Rapid City, addressed the nonsensical theory, so often put forth by the far right, that teachers are grooming or indoctrinating kids. Seans great line was that if he knew how to get students to do whatever he told them to, theyd be turning their homework in on time. That got a big laugh. Otherwise, there was a wonderful mix of students, teachers, librarians and Fargo citizens who were thoroughly engaged, Eggers said.

Meanwhile, Eggers continues his work to push for the freedom to read in Rapid City and nationwide.

Last year, Eggers teamed with Mitzis Books to offer any Rapid City high school seniors a free copy of any of the books on the to be destroyed list  The Circle, How Beautiful We Were by Imbolo Mbue, Fun Home by Alison Bechdel, The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky, and Girl, Woman, Other by Bernardine Evaristo. More than 400 books were given away to Rapid City high school seniors in 2022. Eggers has renewed that commitment to provide all five books to twelfth-graders in the district, and the books are currently being offered, at no charge, at Mitzis Books. Students who want copies of the books can contact Amanda Uhle at amanda@daveeggers.net.

"Every high school student should have unfettered access to literature, so if youre a Rapid City high school senior, email our office and ask for any of these titles, Eggers said.

Eggers has been involved in partnerships such as First Book and other programs that donate books to schools, libraries and students. Eggers also co-founded 826 National, a network of youth writing and tutoring centers around the United States, and he founded ScholarMatch, a nonprofit organization that connects low-income students with resources so they can obtain college educations. Eggers is the founder of McSweeney's, an independent publishing company based in San Francisco.

Eggers began the Young Editors Project, which involves school-aged students in the publishing process, and he's the winner of the Muhammad Ali Award for Education, the National Book Award's Literarian Award, and the Dayton Literary Peace Prize  all honors connected to his work to support young readers and writers.
WASHINGTON  Republicans chose Rep. Mike Johnson as their latest nominee for House speaker late Tuesday, hours after an earlier pick, Rep. Tom Emmer, abruptly withdrew in the face of opposition from Donald Trump and hardline GOP lawmakers.

Johnson of Louisiana, a lower-ranked member of the House GOP leadership team, becomes the fourth nominee after Emmer and the others fell short in what has become an almost absurd cycle of political infighting since Kevin McCarthy's ouster as GOP factions jockey for power.

Refusing to unify, far-right members wont accept a more traditional speaker and more moderate members dont want a hardliner. Johnson immediately faced a roll call behind closed doors to test his support ahead of a House floor vote, when he'll need almost all Republicans to win the gavel.

Three weeks on, the Republicans are frittering away their majority status  a maddening embarrassment to some, democracy in action to others, but not at all how the House is expected to function.

Pretty sad commentary on governance right now, said Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark. Maybe on the fourth or fifth or sixth or 10th try well get this thing right.

After he withdrew Tuesday afternoon, Emmer briskly left the building where he had been meeting privately with Republicans, but he returned later to offices at the Capitol. He said Trump's opposition did not affect his decision to bow out.

I made my decision based on my relationship with the conference, he said, referring to the GOP majority. He said he would support whomever emerges as the new nominee. We'll get it done.

Trump, speaking as he left the courtroom in New York where he faces business fraud charges, said his un-endorsement must have had an impact on Emmers bid.

He wasnt MAGA," said Trump, the party's front-runner for the 2024 presidential election, referring to his Make America Great Again campaign slogan.

House Republicans returned behind closed doors, where they spend much of their time, desperately searching for a leader who can unite the factions, reopen the House and get the U.S. Congress working again.

Attention quickly turned to Johnson of Louisiana, a member of party leadership who was the second highest vote-getter on Tuesday's internal ballots. He earned 128 votes in the evening vote.

A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson had rallied Republicans around Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 election results.

But hardliners swiftly resisted Johnson's bid and a new list of candidates emerged within minutes of an evening deadline. Among them was Reps. Byron Donalds of Florida, a Trump ally who ran third on the morning ballot, and a few others. McCarthy, who was not on the ballot, won a surprising 43 votes.

We're in the same cul-de-sac, said Rep. Scott Perry, R-Pa., the chairman of the far-right House Freedom Caucus.

Yet Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., one of the hardliners, said, This is what democracy looks like.

One idea circulating, first reported by NBC News, was to reinstall McCarthy as speaker with hardline Rep. Jim Jordan in a new leadership role.

It was being pitched as a way to unite the conference, lawmakers said, but they were not certain it would fly.

I think sometimes its good to have fresh ideas and fresh people, said Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind.

Emmer of Minnesota had jumped out in front during private morning balloting among a hodgepodge list of mostly lesser-known congressmen aspiring to be speaker, a powerful position second in line to the presidency.

While Emmer won a simple majority in a roll call behind closed doors  117 votes  he lost more than two dozen Republicans, leaving him far short of what will be needed during a House floor tally ahead.

But Trump allies, including the influential hard-right instigator Steve Bannon, have been critical of Emmer. Some point to his support of a same-sex marriage initiative and perceived criticisms of the former president. Among the far-right groups pressuring lawmakers over the speakers vote, some quickly attacked Emmer.

Coming in a steady second in the morning balloting, Johnson offered his full support to Emmer, saying, "What we have to do in this room is unite and begin to govern again.

Others were eliminated during multiple rounds of voting, including Donalds and Rep. Kevin Hern of Oklahoma, a conservative leader and former McDonalds franchise owner who plied his colleagues with hamburgers seeking their support. Reps. Austin Scott of Georgia, Jack Bergman of Michigan, Pete Sessions of Texas, Gary Palmer of Alabama and Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania also dropped out.

Having rejected the top replacements, Majority Leader Steve Scalise and the Trump-backed Jordan, there is no longer any obvious choice for the job.

With Republicans controlling the House 221-212 over Democrats, any GOP nominee can afford just a few detractors to win the gavel.

Republicans have been flailing all month, unable to conduct routine business as they fight amongst themselves with daunting challenges ahead.

The federal government risks a shutdown in a matter of weeks if Congress fails to pass funding legislation by a Nov. 17 deadline to keep services and offices running. More immediately, President Joe Biden has asked Congress to provide $105 billion in aid  to help Israel and Ukraine amid their wars and to shore up the U.S. border with Mexico. Federal aviation and farming programs face expiration without action.

Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, the hard-right leader who engineered McCarthy's ouster, has said several of those who were running  Hern, Donalds or Johnson  would make a phenomenal choice for speaker.

Nevertheless, Gaetz voted for Emmer, though others who joined in ousting McCarthy did not.

Many Emmer opponents were resisting a leader who voted for the budget deal that McCarthy struck with Biden earlier this year, which set federal spending levels that far-right Republicans don't agree with and now want to undo. They are pursuing steeper cuts to federal programs and services with next month's funding deadline.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia said she wanted assurances the candidates would pursue impeachment inquiries into Biden and other top Cabinet officials.

During the turmoil, the House is now led by a nominal interim speaker pro tempore, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the bow tie-wearing chairman of the Financial Services Committee. His main job is to elect a more permanent speaker.

Some Republicans  and Democrats  would like to simply give McHenry more power to get on with the routine business of governing. But McHenry, the first person to be in the position that was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks as an emergency measure, has declined to back those overtures.

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BEIRUT  The leader of Lebanon's Hezbollah group held talks Wednesday in Beirut with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures in a key meeting of three top anti-Israel militant groups amid the war raging in Gaza.

In neighboring Syria, meanwhile, state media said an Israeli airstrike hit the international airport in the northern city of Aleppo on Wednesday, damaging its runway and putting it out of service.

There was no immediate comment from Israel on the reported strike.

Following the meeting in Lebanon, a brief statement said Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah agreed with Hamas' Saleh al-Arouri and Islamic Jihad's leader Ziad al-Nakhleh on the next steps that the three  along with other Iran-backed militants  should take at this "sensitive stage" in the Middle East.

Their goal, according to the statement carried on Hezbollah-run and Lebanese state media, was to achieve "a real victory for the resistance in Gaza and Palestine" and halt Israel's "treacherous and brutal aggression against our oppressed and steadfast people in Gaza and the West Bank".

No other details were provided. The meeting came as the war between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that rules the Gaza Strip, is now in its third week.

The fighting, triggered by Hamas' deadly incursion into Israel on Oct. 7 that killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, has killed more than 5,700 Palestinians in Gaza.

As the Gaza death toll spirals, tensions have also risen along the tense Lebanon-Israel border, where Hezbollah members have been exchanging fire with Israeli troops since the day after Hamas' rampage into Israel.

For now, those exchanges remain limited to a handful of border towns and Hezbollah and Israeli military positions on both sides. Lebanese army soldiers and United Nations peacekeeping forces have deployed in large numbers.

Dozens of Hezbollah fighters have been killed in the clashes so far, the group says, while the Israeli military has also announced some deaths among its ranks.

Nasrallah has yet to publicly speak about the war in Gaza and clashes along the Lebanon-Israel border. Other Hezbollah top officials have warned Israel against its planned ground invasion into the besieged territory.

Israeli officials say they would retaliate aggressively in case of a cross-border attack by Hezbollah from Lebanon.

"We will cripple it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the consequences for it and the Lebanese state (will be) devastating," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said while visiting Israeli troops along the border with Lebanon on Sunday.

Lebanon's cash-strapped caretaker government, along with regional and international figures, has been scrambling to keep the country out of the war.

Hezbollah and Israel fought a monthlong war in 2006 that ended in a tense stalemate. Israel sees Iran-backed Hezbollah as its most serious threat, estimating it has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.

In its report on the airstrike on Syria's Aleppo, the state-run SANA news agency cited an unnamed military official as saying the strike came from the west, over the Mediterranean Sea near the coastal city of Lattakia. The report did not mention any casualties.

If confirmed, the attack would be the fourth time Israel has targeted the airport in Aleppo, Syria's largest city and financial hub, since the onset of the latest Israel-Hamas war.

The first attack took place on Oct. 12, when Israeli missiles struck international airports in both Aleppo and Syria's capital of Damascus, putting them both out of commission. The Aleppo airport was later repaired.

Israel targets airports and sea ports in government-held parts of Syria in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militants backed by Tehran, including Hezbollah. Thousands of Iran-backed fighters from around the region joined Syria's 12-year civil war, helping tip the balance in favor of President Bashar Assad's forces.
Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly identified the building on 200 West Marshall Street as the original location of Steamer Company Number 5 and as the oldest firehouse in Virginia. This story has been updated.

At Richmond Police Department Headquarters, Joanne Jones was reunited with the plaque dedicated to her father, Officer Vernon L. Jarrelle.

I think about him all the time and what I miss and what he missed, Jones said. I just want to honor him and let him know I havent forgotten.

Jarrelle was killed 50 years ago in a shootout while responding to an attempted robbery. To honor his sacrifice, a plaque was placed at the building on 200 W. Marshall St. where he lost his life.

A few years ago, Jones discovered the plaque went missing and was left to seek help in finding it.

End of watch

The building once hosted Richmond firehouse Steamer Company No. 5, and also housed a police station and lockup until 1968.

After the fire station was relocated, the building converted into a food stamp distribution center and site of the emergency food nutrition program in Richmond.

On Aug. 1, 1973, Jarrelle, a former rookie of the year within the department, was working off duty in uniform at the center when two men entered the building and shot him during a robbery attempt.

Before Jarrelle died, he returned fire, killing one of his assailants. The other shooter was eventually caught and sent to prison, along with an accomplice.

Officer Jerrelle woke up that morning in August of 1973, serving our city, and he never came home, Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards said Thursday. And theres officers out there right now doing the exact same thing he was doing, willing to go out there and risk it all for people they dont know.

A lost dedication

A bronze plaque honoring Jarrelle was placed on the building following his death. The buildings function changed a number of times, once hosting the Virginia Fire and Police Museum and now standing as Gallery5, a nonprofit community art space.

Jones, who was 3 years old when Jarrelle died, frequently walked by that location to see her fathers plaque, including every Aug. 1 and Fathers Day. About three years ago, she was making another visit when she discovered that the plaque was gone.

It felt very empty, like it didnt exist anymore, she said about the buildings existence without the plaque. I never thought it would be found; I figured it was either destroyed or got thrown away in the trash.

Finding the plaque

Jones reached out everywhere, eventually connecting with retired captain and current officer Mark Segal through Richmond Polices Facebook page.

Later, Bruce Vanderbilt, the current building owner, and Tom Robinson, the previous building owner, were looped in on the search.

With various building restorations over the years, the plaque was a tough find. Around one month ago, however, Vanderbilt discovered the plaque was tucked away in a hidden corner.

We tore it upside down and inside out, but could not find the plaque. Vanderbilt said. Then it occurred to me that there was one more spot that we hadnt searched; its a small little storage nook in the building, and thats where it turned up.

On Thursday, an emotional Jones was able to view the plaque for the first time in more than three years. She was presented with the option of taking the plaque home but decided to leave it in its original spot.

It belongs in the city for people to see and choose to stop to read, and they will know that someone very special lost their life right there, she said.

Edwards presented Segal, Vanderbilt and Robinson with gifts recognizing their roles in locating the plaque.

It was immensely gratifying to find that plaque, Segal said. For (Jones), her lineage, her father, her connection to the Richmond Police Department and her connection to Richmonds roots, its sort of embedded in this plaque.

The plaque will soon go back on the building, with the Fraternal Order of Police contributing funding toward the cause.

People stop and look at that plaque and realize what an important but tragic event it was for the city and for the Richmond Police Department, Robinson said.

Without that plaque, his memory would have been lost to virtually everyone.

Remember Safety Town? A look back through the Times-Dispatch archives Safety Town safety town Safety Town Safety Town Safety Town Safety Town Safety Town
College enrollment in Virginia rose 2% this year, despite the high cost, lingering questions about the value of a degree and the looming demographic cliff.

There are roughly 529,000 students at Virginias 60-plus colleges, up from 519,000 last year. Any increase, even a small one, is good news for schools, which face numerous challenges in enrolling more students.

Its hard to say theres bad news here, said Tod Massa, policy analytics director for the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV).

But the news wasnt good for all schools. Radford and Christopher Newport continued to shrink, and concerns linger that small colleges in Virginia are in trouble.

Graduating college is generally a good thing for a community. People with college degrees make more money, are more likely to have health insurance and have greater life expectancy.

We feel very confident that postsecondary education and training is associated with positive outcomes in the workforce and in life, Tom Allison of SCHEV said.

But many are choosing to enter the workforce instead of college. Others are questioning if college is worth the value. And the cost continues to rise  an in-state student at Virginia Commonwealth University pays $16,000 for one year of tuition and fees and $14,000 for room and board.

There are also concerns about a so-called enrollment cliff, in which the number of high school graduates is expected to decline nationwide.

And yet, colleges in Virginia are growing. The total number of students exceeded the 2019 figure of 525,000, representing a recovery from the pandemic.

Virginia public college enrollment 2022-2023 Public colleges 2022 2023 % change CNU 4,559 4,504 -1.2% GMU 39,607 39,882 0.7% JMU 22,224 22,332 0.5% Longwood 4,358 4,464 2.4% Norfolk State 5,783 6,074 5.0% ODU 23,107 22,481 -2.7% Radford 7,718 7,418 -3.9% Mary Washington 3,757 3,772 0.4% UVA 25,879 25,563 -1.2% UVA-Wise 1,737 1,904 9.6% VCU 28,408 28,586 0.6% VMI 1,512 1,560 3.2% VSU 4,648 5,276 13.5% Va. Tech 38,169 38,446 0.7% W&M 9,654 9,687 0.3% Total public colleges 221,120 221,949 0.4% All colleges 519,161 528,892 1.9%

Some colleges that had been struggling rebounded this year. VCU ended a four-year slide by growing almost 1%. Virginia Military Institute brought in a large freshman class after welcoming in a small one last year. Longwood, which has shrunk during the past six years, grew by 2% this year. And the states community colleges, which have struggled for a decade, grew for a second straight year.

Virginias numbers mirror the national scene. Undergraduate enrollment grew 2% in the past year, the first time national enrollment has increased since the start of the pandemic, according to the National Student Clearinghouse.

But small schools in rural locations have struggled. So have colleges that offer fewer of the popular STEM programs (science, technology, engineering and mathematics.)

Radford continued to slide and is down 37% since 2019. Mary Washington, which has contracted 22% in six years, was about flat this year. Longwood grew after generally declining during the past five years, and Christopher Newport slid 1% this year and is down 14% in the past decade.

Theres concern that while the states large schools eat up more and more students, theres no one left for the small schools. This problem could be exacerbated by the coming enrollment cliff.

As a body, we have an issue coming up, Walter Curt, a SCHEV board member, said at a meeting this week. Whether we think about it now or talk about it, its on its way. The train is on the tracks and its coming toward us.

Curt said the council has downplayed the issue for years, letting Virginia Tech and George Mason grow unabated, while others struggled. Most of the colleges that are contracting have projected growth in the future, which Curt called unrealistic.

As colleges have generally grown, most have gotten easier to get into. James Madison has an admissions rate above 80%, and George Masons is above 90%. VCU recently announced it will accept anyone with a 3.5 grade-point average.

Schools have drawn criticism for easing their acceptance rates. But theres no evidence colleges are admitting students who cant succeed once enrolled, Allison said, citing the high number of freshmen who stay for their sophomore year.

One reason schools are admitting more students, Allison said, is the Common App, which allows a high school student to apply to several colleges at once. High schoolers are routinely applying to 10 or 20 colleges now, shopping for the best financial aid package.

Thats made it harder for colleges to predict how many students will actually show up, he added, leading them to accept more students.

Because the number of high school grads is expected to drop, Virginia colleges might have to search harder outside the states borders.

SCHEVs staff is recommending some out-of-state students get a discount. Currently, the states budget language requires colleges to charge them the full cost of education, which is often two or three times higher than what in-state students pay. In-state students get a discount, because their educations are subsidized by Virginia taxpayers.

But as colleges depend more and more on students from outside Virginia, colleges might need to give them a financial incentive. SCHEV is recommending legislators change the language and let colleges give discounts to some out-of-state students.
The primary United Nations agency in Gaza has announced that it will be forced to cease its aid operations within a day if fuel is not promptly delivered.

This unfortunate situation would signify the termination of a crucial lifeline for the civilians in the region, as stated by the organization, as per CNN.

Gaza Hospitals Teeter on Brink as Fuel Shortage Imperils Lives

Gaza's hospitals, already overwhelmed by the influx of casualties, are now facing a catastrophic threat as they cannot run their emergency generators due to the lack of fuel. The consequences of this fuel shortage are dire, with doctors warning that hospitals could become "mass graves" if they cannot power life-saving equipment.

Surgery has become almost impossible, and life support machines and incubators for babies are at risk of shutting down. According to the United Nations, almost a third of Gaza's hospitals have been forced to close either due to damage from airstrikes or a lack of fuel.

The situation is particularly dire at the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, the largest hospital in the region, where 150 patients are currently on ventilators that would cease to function without electricity.

The prospect of such a scenario is unimaginable, and urgent action is needed to prevent this humanitarian catastrophe. The fuel shortage not only jeopardizes the functioning of hospitals but also hampers the ability of aid organizations to provide essential services to the population.

The United Nations has warned that its operations in Gaza could halt unless fuel is secured for emergency shelters, where 600,000 people have sought refuge. Without power, these shelters cannot provide the necessary support, leaving thousands of people vulnerable and in desperate need of assistance.

The situation has prompted global charities and aid organizations to call for an immediate ceasefire and the provision of further aid to Gaza. UNICEF has reported that Israeli strikes have already claimed the lives of 2,360 children and stressed the need to end the fighting.

Oxfam has highlighted the use of hunger as a weapon of war against Gaza civilians and warned that many more could face starvation unless more excellent aid supplies are allowed into the region, according to AP News.

Read Also: Economic Catastrophe Expected If Israel-Hamas Conflict Remains Unresolved, Experts Warn

Israel Warns of Imminent Invasion

The Israeli government has announced preparations for a ground assault to crush Hamas, the militant group controlling Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of an imminent ground invasion and stated that all Hamas militants are "doomed."

The intensity of the bombardment has already caused significant damage and loss of life, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. International efforts to address the situation are underway, with calls for an urgent ceasefire and increased aid to Gaza.

Several countries, including Britain, have sent aid to the region, but access has been limited. Israel has imposed tight blockades and has not allowed fuel to be included in the humanitarian supplies.

Aid agencies stress that more than the current trickle of reserves is needed to meet the enormous humanitarian needs of the population. The dire situation in Gaza requires immediate action from the international community. The lives of countless families, women, children, and the sick and injured are at stake.

Humanitarian aid, including fuel, must be allowed to reach Gaza to alleviate the population's suffering. The United Kingdom, along with other countries, is working to enable the delivery of life-saving aid. The plea for assistance extends beyond the provision of necessities.

The healthcare system in Gaza is on the brink of collapse, and the lives of vulnerable individuals, including newborns, hang in the balance. The international community must unite to support the doctors and medical staff working tirelessly to save lives in the face of overwhelming challenges, Mail Online reported.

Related Article: French President Emmanuel Macron Visits Israel, Proposes International Coalition To Fight Hamas

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
When she asked some of the young adults shes helped through the tough years after they aged out of foster care what they wished they had on their first night in the system, Joy Rios, founder of the Connect with a Wish support group, heard an unexpected list:

Flashlight

Night light

Chapstick

Tissues

Flashlight and night light because your first night in a stranger's home can be pretty scary after social workers (maybe with police on hand) took you from your home.

Chapstick and tissues because you cry a lot, and that can make your lips dry out.

I dont think theres a more vulnerable group in the world than foster care kids, said Rios, who runs Connect with a Wish for foster care kids, and for young adults who have aged out of care.

They wake up in a new home time and again; go to a new school, again and again, have new therapists, and they just get up and keep on trying.

But trying is hard. Basically, when a foster care kid turns 18, he or she is an adult and on his or her own. Of Virginia's more than 5,000 youth in foster care, about 485 are 18.

Crisis and trauma

An 18-year old who ages out of foster care, given Virginias strong emphasis on reuniting families and finding a permanent home through adoption when thats whats needed, is generally in that situation for one of two reasons.

The first is that a crisis of abuse or neglect that brings a child into foster care is pretty recent.

The second is that such trauma, even if many years before, is so severe that the youth, as well as the foster parents, can have a hard time coping.

Many foster care kids aging out have been through many foster homes or even in institutions.

Melvin Roy entered the foster care system as a high school freshman. He was 14.

He was in four foster homes over the next four years before he aged out.

At the first, the dad decided he was tired of dealing with me. For 30 days, he wouldnt speak to me," Roy said. "Then he called and said Take him back."

My last foster home was my best friends. They were nice, but it was like youve turned 18, and they say, well weve done our job, now its up to you, he said.

Virginia has a program, Fostering Futures, as well as independent living programs that can help with support for school, job training and housing until the young person turns 21. There are 787 young people in these programs.

But for some former foster care kids, the requirement to stay in school or keep a job is hard; for some, three years is not enough time to make up for years of missing all the things a parent should provide.

High school gaps

Half of 18-year-olds aging out of foster care dont have a high school diploma. After all, attending a new high school, sometimes every few months, makes it tough to follow a course. Does your new English teacher, for instance, know what you were reading in your previous class? Does your new math teacher know if youve really got fractions down yet, or if you can or cant solve a quadratic equation?

Fostering Futures, the program for young people up to 21, stresses education. To get the program's help with housing and a living stipend, a young adult needs to be in school, a job training program or employed.

But say youre living with another independent living youth, and are you really getting up every morning, getting breakfast and getting yourself off to school? Really? said Rios.

Among Virginia youth who have aged out of foster care, only 60% of 19-year-olds had yet earned a high school diploma or GED (General Educational Development credential), according to the latest follow up by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Childrens Bureau.

About half of youth who are receiving some kind of post-foster care support say they are enrolled in school or a job training program. Only 18% have a full-time job, as opposed to 27% of those who are not in care; 38% of those in care have part-time jobs compared with 25% who are not in care.

Some 18% of those in care have experienced homelessness; 14% of those not in care have; 7% of those in care have been incarcerated at some point, 14% of those not in care have; 12% of those in care and 14% of those who are not have received a referral for treatment for addiction.

Virginia Commissioner of Social Services Danny Avula says having programs like Fostering Futures to provide help with housing and school after a youth in foster care turns 18 was a big step forward.

But for many the trauma that brought them into foster care doesn't go away; for some, the experience of moving from placement to placement still hurts. They can find it a challenge to stick with the program's work or education requirements - but Avula said the state is responding by making it easier for young adults who drop out to re-enroll.

"We've got to lower the barriers," he said.

The emphasis on expanding behavioral health supports for children and teenagers offers hope for the long term, he said. So does the social services department's push to expand "kinship care" - having relatives, instead of strangers, step in as foster parents, a pattern that usually keeps foster care youth from being shuttled from home to home.

"We just have too many reaching 18 without permanency," he said.

Lost

For many, aging out of foster care is like being lost.

Fariha Rahman, 23, who is from Northern Virginia and who went into foster care at 16, shrugged off the troubles with her parents that landed her in the system and buckled down intensively in high school.

She won a scholarship to Drexel University as she aged out of the system. Thats where her two years in foster care hit home.

I was so lonely, she said. I didnt really know how to build relationships  it was always transactional, I do this for you, I should get this.

That was her approach as a star student in high school. Foster care, too, felt like that, always doing deals to meet what foster parents and social workers wanted.

I was tired of always feeling I was doing things for others, she said.

She broke down.

Foster care can feel like doing what others expect when youre not really sure why. This is a particular challenge for foster care kids if they have to go from home to home, as many do.

Ive been in too many places to count, said Carissa Cyrus, who was in foster care since she was 8 and is now taking college courses in criminal justice at J. Sargent Reynolds Community College and aiming for a career as a police detective.

You always have to meet new expectations in new places. Sometimes people are mean, she said.

On the move

Qayon Jenkins, 20, was in seven homes, sometimes just for a month or two after things fell apart for his mom when they moved from New Jersey to Lynchburg.

There, things went wrong badly between his mother and her boyfriend.

There was a lot of conflict, and when his mom was arrested, he was placed into foster care.

The hope was  as always  that the family could get back together, but there were delays because his mother failed drug tests.

When mother and son finally did get back together, I felt like I wasnt getting what I needed to stay in school. I talked to my case manager and went back to foster care.

His mom died as she was taking the first steps toward getting his younger sister back.

I feel what you go through sometimes, its just what you have to get through.

Jenkins ended up with foster mom, Ingrid Olson King, whos still a support. They stay in touch, while through Fostering Futures, he received a stipend for groceries and rent that can help with the transition as he attends Old Dominion University and works at Walmart.

He is participating in an independent living program; a program of services for foster care kids that begins when they are 14 and can continue until age 21 if they are in the custody or placement responsibility of a local department of social services.

Qualifying placements include those in foster homes, residential treatment centers and group homes.

Independent living services include help in completing high school, a GED or higher education. This includes assistance for tuition, admission fees, supplies, equipment, tutoring. Theres help with job training and finding work; training on budgeting, housing, money management and career planning.

Theres counseling, help getting hold of household goods, getting utilities turned on, getting a driver's license.

But it stops when a young adult turns 21.

Not enough time?

Rios thinks thats a problem.

So, too, is some of the red tape that goes with programs, including a rare one thats meant to help former foster care kids even older than 21, by giving them special access to rent subsidies - section 8 vouchers - from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Relatively few Virginia localities have tapped into this "Foster to Tenant Protection Voucher" program, however. The key stumbling block is the programs requirement that the young adult have a case manager, but the responsibilities of social workers at local social services departments stop when a youth turns 21.

Rios Connect with a Wish nonprofit hired a case manager to collaborate with Virginia Beach foster care and housing programs last year and five young adults have already been able to benefit.

The application is daunting. As former foster care youth find their way in the adult world, they sometimes need help finding a place to live. Connect with a Wish case manager Jessica Lovgren works with these young adults to help them with some of the goals the HUD voucher program requires, such as completing a financial education source.

Shipyard's boost

Connect with a Wish staffer Alison Fagan runs the Connect to Careers program, which in September hosted a job fair with Newport News Shipbuilding.

Ten former foster care youth received and accepted offers for the shipyards high paying jobs as electricians, pipefitters and welders.

"We have a need, and we saw a real need from these young people making the transition from foster care," said Xavier Beale, the shipyard's vice president for human resources and trades.

"Those young people are so eager, so excited," Beale said. "We can take people from zero to being fully fledged craftspeople ... we don't just build ships, we build careers, we build citizens."

There will be lots of support at the shipyard - a shipyard employee who is a foster parent himself will be a liaison between the young people, their supervisors and Connect with a Wish.

For Connect with a Wish's program is about more than introducing employers to the former foster care youth: the shipyard, which builds nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines, requires background checks, drug screening and physical fitness tests before these new hires.

So Rios is going to bring in a trainer, to help the 10 get in shape for the fitness test; she and Fagan are making sure they get driver's licenses if they dont have them  and, to keep them on track, will drive them to get the drug screen if necessary.

The work isnt going to stop there, either. The 10 will embark on a comprehensive and demanding training program to learn how to do the highly skilled jobs they hope will be a lifelong career.

It wont be anything like job training programs they may have already experienced. When they finish that, theyll be working in a heavy industry site unlike any other in the state, with bosses who are used to working in Navy-oriented ways of getting a job done.

If their pants are sagging, we want to hear about it, so we can talk to them, Rios said. Well meet with them weekly at first, to hear how things are going; well be working with the shipyard liaison, a foster parent himself, who will be in touch with each of the 10s supervisors and will be there to help them as they help the 10 learn the shipyards ways.

Its not like you can go home and ask mom what to do, if you think youve done something the boss didnt like, Rios said. We are mom.

Support - but the right way

Its not just school and housing and stipends that matter, said Melvin Roy, whos built a life after that first foster home rejected him just 30 days after his placement there, that includes serving as board member for United Methodist Family Services of Virginia.

In foster care, he received services from Richmond-based UMFS. These days, hes involved with its Project LIFE program of services for youth aging out of foster care. After graduating from Old Dominion University he has created an organization called Foster-U which seeks to help foster youth strive for higher education.

You want support, guidance, encouragement; all the things a family gives, Roy said.

Maybe encouragement most of all.

But young adults who were in foster care have sensitivities  and fears, too.

Rios sees that, working with a group of former foster care young women who are now new mothers.

They often dont know where to turn when they have questions about caring for their babies  they are deathly afraid that asking a social worker puts them at risk of having their babies taken from them, Rios said.

Former foster care youth need mentors who can provide support, Roy said.

But you dont need someone coming in and playing savior, telling you: 'you got to do it my way,'  he said.

Connections

Back in Virginia after leaving Drexel, Rahman felt lost, alone and isolated  until she heard about a group for foster care kids and alumni sponsored by the Virginia Department of Social Services. It is called SPEAKOUT, for Strong Positive Educated Advocates Keen On Understanding the Truth.

The Department of Social Services sees the group as a way of learning about ways it can improve the system, and as a way of helping young people build their leadership and advocacy skills.

It opened doors for Rahman.

She heard from other young people who were going through the same loneliness she felt, and the same uncertainty about where their lives were headed.

I heard from people who were smart and kind, and I realized I could be, too.

When youre in foster care it is hard to have relationships, she said.

Now, shes going to community college, studying physics and planning to continue studying at a four-year school.

Im on my own, in an apartment with a roommate, she said. Im in a good place now.

PHOTOS: Camp for foster care kids 20170401_MET_CAMP_04 20170401_MET_CAMP_01 20170401_MET_CAMP_05 20170401_MET_CAMP_02 20170401_MET_CAMP_03
A missing piece of PDC beach access land finally donated

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  A real estate development has handed over land that includes access to Playa del Carmens Punta Esmeralda. Corasol has agreed to donate land to the municipality after more than a decade of waiting.

The donation was made after a recent Urban Development Building Commission meeting. According to Eighth Councilor and President of the Commission, Jaqueline Alcocer, a total of five properties have been donated to the municipality.

She said initally, four properties were donated during the 14 years the project has been in existance, however, a fifth property remained in limbo. During the 2013-2016 administration, the corresponding procedure was not carried out, but we are doing it now, so that the four are approved as a package.

She says the donation of Punta Esmeralda is part of that land within the municipality that had not been finalized. There is one more small piece of property that remains missing to complete the donation, she added.

The donation was not completed at the time due to documentation problems,she said.

The Corasol real estate development was granted permits by a former governor in exchange for various roads and land donations. However, over time, the delivery did not fully materialize even though the development was built.

During the administration of former Mayor Mauricio Gongora Escalante, four donation areas were defined, but the process was not completed. A fifth area was pending, which was Caracola Avenue, which leads directly to the public beach of Xcalacoco.

Alcocer says that during the administration of former Mayor Cristina Torres Gomez, who is the current State Secretary, the paving of this avenue began but was not completed due to the lack of deeds, which has complicated access to the Xcalacoco beach area.

Playa Xcalacoco in north Playa del Carmen. In the distance, the Corasol development can be seen.

Photo: Riviera Maya News October 26, 2023.

However, as a result of this review and the pressure exerted on the complex, all that remains is for the proposal to be approved by the Council and published in the Official State Newspaper to finally guarantee the legal certainty of these accesses to the beach.

In September of 2022, an illegal wire fence was put up to block public access to Punta Esmeralda before the start of a long weekend. The fence was allegedly put up by a nearby hotel owner. That fence was torn down by city officials.

In June of this year, Punta Esmeralda ranked among the best beaches in Latin America for its natural qualities, coming in third. Playa Punta Esmeralda ranked third in the category of best urban beach surpassed by two from Cuba, International Varadero and Historic Varadero.
Authorities declare 2023 Cancun Riviera Maya sargassum season officially over

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  The Government of Quintana Roo has declared the 2023 sargassum for Cancun and Riviera Maya officially over. On Thursday, Governor Mara Lezama highlighted the teamwork between federal, state and municipal workers along with volunteers.

Lezama said during the 2023 Sargassum Season, more than 22,000 tons was lifted from the state coast.

In 2023, less sargassum was recorded on the coasts of the Mexican Caribbean and for its attention, 11 sargassum coastal vessels were built, 16 smaller vessels with collecting devices were deployed and 9,059 meters of barriers were placed, she detailed during the meeting.

The meeting took place in the auditorium of the Ninth Naval Zone where she highlighted the work and effort of everyone to keep the beaches clean for as long as possible, which she says, are the main attractions of the Quintana Roo tourist destinations.

Governor Lezama says the state recorded less sargassum during the 2023 season.

Photo: Coordinacion General de Comunicacion October 25, 2023.

She said with clean beaches, it was possible to have world-class events that put Quintana Roo in the eyes of the world. She also highlighted the first official permit from COFEPRIS for organic sargassum-made fertilizers to a company in Puerto Morelos, a project of the Secretariat of Environmental Ecology, German Cooperation Agency GIZ and the Federal Government.

She said that they are working on the tender for the preparation of the Regulation of the Law for the Prevention, Comprehensive Management and Circular Economy of Waste in the State of Quintana Roo regarding sargassum, as well as the preparation of the valuation study of the algae at the industrial level for the generation of carbon credits for the international market.

Cancun beaches have been relatively sargassum free since the Spring.

Photo: Coordinacion General de Comunicacion October 25, 2023.

Governor Lezama explained that in the context of the coordination agreement between the federal government and the state government, more than 9,000 linear meters of barriers were installed and 22,128 tons of sargassum collected so far this year.

When presenting a report on the actions that have been carried out through the National Strategy for Sargassum Care, the Commander of the Ninth National Region, Admiral Abraham Eloy Caballero, highlighted that unity is the only way to achieve great things and with this strategy, all efforts are directed toward a single objective, Quintana Roo.

This ceremony portrays how the union of wills achieves results in favor of Quintana Roo and our Nation, said Admiral Eloy Caballero. He reported that since 2019, the various levels of government along with private initiative, non-governmental organizations, environmentalists and even civil society have joined together in open collaboration to address the problem.

Federal, state and municipal authorities gathered at the Isla Mujeres Naval Station for the official closing of the 2023 sargassum season.

Photo: Coordinacion General de Comunicacion October 25, 2023.

For their care, 11 Sargacero coastal vessels were built, one oceanic Sargacero vessel was rehabilitated and 16 smaller vessels with collection devices were deployed. The State Government and the affected municipalities acquired 9,059 meters of barrier for the containment of sargassum, four sweepers, a tractor and 14 amphibious collection belts.

Since 2019, a total of 225,648 tons of the macroalgae has been collected, he detailed.

We could turn our backs on the problem or start an individual fight, but we all decided on the best strategy and that was to work to keep intact the unique beauty of the beaches of this region in addition to preventing it from getting out of control and causing irrecoverable health, economy and ecology losses, he added.

In January of this year, studies by the National Institute of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Inapesca) and the Interdisciplinary Center for Marine Sciences (Cicimar) had forecast a lower amount of sargassum to arrive on Cancun and Riviera Maya beaches during 2023.
Group of out-of-state drug dealers busted on Playa del Carmen street

Playa del Carmen, Q.R.  A group of three men found exchanging bags of narcotics have landed themselves in jail. On Wednesday, Municipal police patrolling the Ejido area of Playa del Carmen came upon the men in flagrante delicto.

During a security patrol in the Ejido neighborhood by Municipal Police, three subjects and more than 100 doses of possible drugs including marijuana, cocaine and methamphetamine were seized, Solidaridad Seguridad Publica reported.

Preventive Police were circulating on Diagonal Avenue 85 and 26th Street when they caught, in flagrante delicto, the men manipulating and exchanging possible drugs.

They identified themselves as Israel N, 31 years old from the State of Mexico, Pedro N, 27 from Tamaulipas and Ivan N, 37, from Mexico City.

After trying to escape without success, a security inspection was carried out and, among their belongings, police found 49 wrappers with a vegetable with the characteristics of marijuana, 45 with possible cocaine and nine with a substance similar to methamphetamine for which they were seized and placed at the disposal of the State Attorney Generals Office.
Lezama meets with INL of U.S. Embassy in Mexico to discuss security

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  Authorities from Quintana Roo and the INL of the United States met Tuesday to discuss security. Governor Mara Lezama met with the Coordinator of the Justice Capacities Program (INL) of the United States Embassy in Mexico, Ellery Buzz Noah.

Both sides met to strengthen the actions of different State institutions which will give greater security not only to citizens, but also to North American visitors.

Accompanied by Judge Heyden Cebada Rivas, President of the Superior Court of Justice, the Secretary of Government Cristina Torres Gomez and the Attorney General Raciel Lopez Salazar, they discussed various issues of alliance and work in coordination with the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL).

Through this program, an alliance is being built to modernize and professionalize the Judiciary, the State Attorney Generals Office and the Municipal Public Security Secretariats for efficient procurement and administration of justice for the benefit of citizens.

Within the framework of the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo, we work as a team for the benefit of the people of Quintana Roo. We want institutions with the best preparation for close attention and results, Lezama commented.

At the meeting they discussed platforms for judicial collaboration, for content generation, judicial professionalization, specialized legal virtual library and electronic signature and digitization platform, among others.

With the implementation of these innovative tools, the State Judicial Branch advances in the modernization of the administration and delivery of justice through the use of technologies.

Judge Heyden Cebada Rivas (left) meets with Ellery Buzz Noah (center) and Governor Mara Lezama (right) to discuss security.

Photo: Coordinacion General de Comunicacion October 24, 2023.

According to the U.S. Embassy, In December 2008, Mexico and the United States signed a bilateral security agreement that opened a historical chapter of cooperation and recognition of the shared responsibilities of both nations to counteract the violence caused by transnational criminal organizations that threaten both countries.

The mission of the Office of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) is to provide effective foreign assistance and foster cooperation to counter these threats.

Through years of implementation, the initiative has led to greater collaboration between the United States and Mexico. It has provided tangible support to Mexicos law enforcement and judicial institutions, helped to counteract the illegal trade in narcotics, and strengthened border security.
U.S. federal jury convicts Miami member of Cuban Mafia in Quintana Roo criminal group

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  Following a one-month trial, a federal jury convicted a Miami Beach man for his role in a violent transnational organized crime group operating in Cuba, Mexico, Spain, and South Florida.

According to a statement by the U.S. Attorneys Office of South Florida, the group are reported to have begun operating as early as 2009.

Javier Hernandez, 50, of Miami Beach, Florida, was convicted on October 18, following a jury trial of conspiracy to commit alien smuggling, conspiracy to transport stolen vessels, conspiracy to traffic in certain motor vehicles, trafficking in certain motor vehicles, and conspiracy to launder money to promote stolen property trafficking and the bribery of public officials.

According to evidence introduced at trial, Hernandez and his codefendant, Ramon Reyes Aranda, 38, of Naples, Florida, stole vessels from the west coast of Florida. Reyes Aranda would identify the vessels, and Hernandez transported them to Mexico, where they would be used to fund and facilitate the enterprises illegal activities.

The stolen property, which included boats and vessels, were transported to a coconspirator in Mexico, who would then use the stolen property to facilitate and promote the organizations activities.

An extensive multi-national operation led by American and Mexican law enforcement authorities was formed to combat the groups activities known collectively in Mexico as La Mafia Cubana en Quintana Roo or The Cuban Mafia in Quintana Roo.

Other members of the group include Jose Miguel Gonzalez Vidal, 36, Reynaldo Abreu Garcia, 56, Yohismy Perez Gonzalez, 40, Yosvani Carbonel Lemus, 43, Reynaldo Crespo Marquez, 44 and Jancer Sergio Ramos Valdes, 37, all Cuban citizens residing in Mexico at the time of the charges.

Maikel Antonio Hechavarria Reyes and Monica Susana Castillo, both of Mexico, are also part of the group.

Prior to the trial, Reyes Aranda pleaded guilty to participating in a money laundering conspiracy to promote stolen property trafficking and the bribery of public officials.

Members of the migrant extortion racket required victims to provide contact information of a family member from whom they would later demand a $10,000 USD ransom fee. The men contacted the victims relatives, some of whom were in Miami, and threatened to torture, starve, and kill the victims if the relatives refused to pay.

If a victims relative was able to pay the ransom, the organization released the victim and sent them by bus to the United States-Mexico border with instructions to seek political asylum.

The victims whose relatives were unable to pay the fee were beaten, threatened with knives and guns, and shocked with stun guns until they were finally rescued by Mexican authorities. Members of the organization also sought to profit from drug trafficking and fraud schemes.

Their sentencing hearings have been scheduled for November and December in Miami.
This true story of the systematic murder of Osage Indians for their oil is both foreign and familiar territory for the director of Goodfellas , The Wolf of Wall Street , and Silence .

What do we think about when we think about Martin Scorsese? Many of us think about gangster stories, especially ultra-violent, grisly, and operatic ones. He helped bring the genre into the modern age with his masterpieces Mean Streets, Goodfellas, Casino, and The Departed. Even when he strayed from crime subjects, the native New Yorker often seems tethered to his urban terrain: Taxi Driver, After Hours, Bringing Out the Dead, and Gangs of New York presented a city whose grandeur and squalor were somehow interchangeable.

Yet careful observers will note that Scorsese has always been more eclectic than his public image suggests. Even Taxi Driver was bookended by a kitchen sink drama of a single womans evolution (Alice Doesnt Live Here Anymore) and a musical (New York, New York). If anything, Scorsese, now in his 80th year, has grown more restless with timewitness the accumulation of such heterogeneous projects as Shutter Island, Hugo, and Silence. At the same time, part of the pleasure of his recent body of films is finding the subtle but definite connections between them.

Exactly one decade ago, Scorsese offered a maximalist portrait of 1980s-era avarice in The Wolf of Wall Street, and while that films overripe excesses are a world away from his newest filma spare, solemn account of the fleecing and killing of members of the Osage Nation in the teens and 20s in Oklahoma, Killers of the Flower Moonthe two works are unquestionably the product of the same moral vision. For all their differences of tone, setting, and style, both films present societies failing to cope with material riches. At opposite halves of the 20th century, Scorsese shows us ruling classes whose desire to acquire money and property bleaches out all other valuesto such an extent that, in the case of the real incidents that inspired Killers of the Flower Moon, fraud, thievery, and even murder were rationalized.

Based on David Granns nonfiction book documenting the episode known as the Osage Indian Murders, Scorseses three-and-a-half-hour epic does not target capitalism itself. To the contrary, the Osage Nation is presented as having a healthy relationship with the wealth that followed the discovery of bounteous reserves of oil found on its land. The elders manage to maintain their traditional waysthe film opens with the burial of a pipe, a ceremony filmed by Scorsese, a former altar boy, with the patient respect of a fellow believereven as the tribe benefits from its earnings (which, infuriatingly, are nonetheless overseen and flintily doled out by so-called guardians from the white community).

The picture presents neither money nor what it provides as evils in themselves; the Osage people live in nice houses, are driven in fine automobiles, and, most important, are able to care for their extended families. This is all to the good. Instead, it is members of the white community who cannot abide that so much money has flowed so freely to their Native American neighbors.

The exploitation is both insidious and obvious: rancher William Hale (Robert De Niro, whose vaguely Southern drawl recalls his menacing twang as Max Cady in Scorseses blistering remake of Cape Fear) encourages his nephew, Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio), to enter into a marriage with an Osage woman, Mollie (Lily Gladstone), with the express purpose of siphoning off her wealth. Ernest comprehends and agrees with the scheme, and goes along with those far deadlier, even as he insists on his love for Mollie and, in time, their children. Brilliantly played by DiCaprio, Ernest is dumbly unaware of his own contradictions: you cannot love a woman whose family youve agreed to destroy.

Beyond cynically encouraging intermarriage, Hale serves as the courteous ringleader of unvarnished violence against the Osage people, whose numbers are suspiciously in decline after a wave of supposedly unexplained deaths. Scorsese films these murders with the simplicity of a silent-movie one-reeler; in one passage, a mustachioed man is seen shooting an Osage woman in broad daylight, hastily placing his gun beside her to indicate suicide, and quickly swooping up the womans infant child. Filming such a devastating sequence so plainly underscores the point that the murderers understood they didnt have to be clever or subtlethey knew they could kill overtly because the local authorities were either apathetic or complicit.

Operating under the influence of Hale, Ernest comes to engage in the gravest of betrayals of Mollie and her family, but long before the depths of his darkness are revealed, Scorsese positions the character in opposition to the values of the Osage Nation. If Ernest is forever enunciating his love of whiskey and money, Mollie and her family are linked with deeper traditions. The storm is powerful, so we need to be quiet for a while, Mollie says during one of the films many thunderstormsan acknowledgment of modesty in the face of Gods power. Twice in the film, Scorsese films Osage characters apprehending their own deaths by imagining the arrival of an owl, an animal widely seen as synonymous with ones demise in Native American culture. Our heart sinks during the scenes because we want the characters to live, but there is nothing ominous or morose about them; in fact, the characters calm acceptance of lifes end stands in sharp contrast to the pictures endless parade of scheming, deceit, and treachery. The films contemplation of quiet but firm spiritual conviction recalls Scorseses Silence, his astonishing drama of Jesuit missionaries persecuted in Japan.

Killers of the Flower Moons real subject may be corruption. Even physicians allow themselves to be conscripted by Hale; the diabetic Mollie requires medicine for her condition, but two doctors supply her with insulin that has the effect of worsening her health. No film has presented drugs in a more unsavory light since Nicholas Rays 1956 Bigger Than Life, the classic melodrama about the deleterious effects of cortisone on star James Mason.

When federal agents turn up finally to scrutinize the killings, the picture evolves into something of a gloss on Brian De Palmas The Untouchables; when agent Tom White (played by full-faced, quiet-voiced Jesse Plemons) begins asking questions and making accusations, we cheer as surely as we did when Kevin Costner and company broke the back of Capone. De Niro has one great line when he encourages an increasingly worried DiCaprio to set-tle down, set-tle down, but by then, we know that the walls are closing in. In one pleasing touch, the federal agents have a wonderful way of confronting suspects: they open doors to reveal already assembled witnesses who proceed to implicate them.

Yet we do not cheer for long at any part of this sorrowful picture. Killers of the Flower Moon is a lament for lives destroyed by envy and prejudice. Hale is certainly irredeemable, but Ernest is a tragic case: a man who betrays a wife he seems to have genuine feelings for. The films overwhelming length is an acknowledgment of the severity of the crimes, yet its denouementin which a 1940s-style radio play cavalierly recounts the events weve just witnessedis an acknowledgment of cinemas inadequacy. Scorsese is one of the radio actors who tells what happened to the real people; in a meta moment, his own breathless delivery is meant to trivialize what weve just seen dramatized in picturesbecause he knows that any movie is bound to trivialize.

Even so, Killers of the Flower Moon is a major achievementa film to sit on the same shelf as Taxi Driver and Silence and, yes, The Wolf of Wall Street.
A Roanoke man who was arrested at a Roanoke County School Board meeting in August was found guilty of disorderly conduct Wednesday.

General District Judge Frederick King ordered Brent W. Brewer to pay a $250 fine as punishment for his behavior at the Aug. 17 meeting, where Brewer was among those objecting to the school boards adoption of a new transgender student policy that critics called discriminatory.

The Roanoke County police officer who arrested Brewer, J. OBrien, testified Wednesday that during the board meeting, Brewer was admonished twice.

The first reprimand occurred 20 to 30 minutes before Brewers arrest, OBrien said. The officer told the judge that an argument between other citizens had become quite disruptive, and when an officer tried hushing them, Brewer interjected himself, saying that it was the chairmans job to ask for order, not the officers.

Later in the meeting, OBrien testified, someone was making a public comment before the board when their allotted time ran out. The officer said board Chairman Brent Hudson told the speaker to wrap things up.

But a person seated in the audience in the row in front of Brewer called out, encouraging the speaker to keep going, keep speaking, dont stop, OBrien said.

OBrien testified that he advised the audience member to stop being disruptive, adding that it would be his only warning.

But then Brewer spoke up, also encouraging the person making the public comment to keep talking. OBrien said when Brewer refused to stand to be escorted out of the room, he advised Brewer that he was being placed under arrest for disorderly conduct.

OBrien testified that two other officers pulled Brewer, who was being dead weight, to his feet, cuffed him, and pushed him out of the room. Brewer was taken outside the meeting building, the Roanoke County Public Schools administration building on Cove Road, where he was asked to sign a court summons.

Brewer refused, OBrien said, and so officers took him to the county magistrates office.

Brewers lawyer, Roanoke area defense attorney Patrick Kenney, asked OBrien if any members of the school board had authorized him to make arrests for disruptive behavior at the meeting. OBrien testified that his supervisors at the Roanoke County Police Department had.

After hearing OBriens testimony, Kenney made a motion to strike the evidence. He noted that according to Virginias disorderly conduct statute, conduct does not include the utterance or display of any words.

Here we dont have conduct, Judge. We have mere words, Kenney said.

The defense attorney added that there was no evidence before the court that Brewer was admonished directly by a member of the school board, which Kenney argued had not authorized police officers to maintain order.

Kenney also argued that the disruption to the meeting occurred after OBrien decided to arrest Brewer. It was at that point, Kenney said, that board members were escorted out of the room.

But Assistant Commonwealths Attorney Aaron Lavinder argued that the court could consider the manner in which Brewers words were delivered and Brewers dead weight behavior once placed under arrest.

Its unfortunate that adults cant abide by a sense of decorum, King said, but who decides when its out of order?

The state disorderly conduct statute says that a person in charge of a meeting may eject a disorderly person with the aid, if necessary, of any persons who may be called upon for such purpose.

Lavinder argued OBrien had the right to take action, and King overruled Kenneys motion to strike.

Kenney argued then that the statute deals with our most precious rights and was designed to uphold free speech. He said the statute empowers meeting leaders to eject audience members.

The defense attorney cited another disorderly conduct case out of Washington County, where a man named Patrick Mannix was ejected from a board of supervisors meeting that discussed an annexation agreement with the city of Bristol.

After Mannix posed several argumentative questions, the boards chairman instructed Mannix to confine his remarks to the annexation agreement, King read from the case opinion. Instead of complying with the purpose of the meeting, Mannix became argumentative and accusatory with the chairman. The chairman ruled Mannix out of order and directed him to take his seat.

Kenney argued that in Brewers case, no member of the school board ruled Brewer out of order.

That did not happen in this case. Period. Full stop, the attorney said, adding that OBriens actions were of his own volition.

There is no evidence that the board even heard this, Judge, Kenney said, referring to Brewers mere words.

Words can become disruptive, King countered.

The judge determined that when Brewer spoke up from the audience, he disobeyed the board chairmans order to the public speaker to wrap things up. And so, he found Brewer guilty.

Kenney gave an oral notice to appeal the judges finding at the close of Wednesdays hearing.

Brewer was the third person arrested at a Roanoke County School Board meeting this past summer. In July, Danny M. Clawson and Benjamin C. James were each arrested and charged with trespassing. Their next court date is scheduled for Jan. 10, according to Virginias online court case information system.
One man was killed and two others were injured early Thursday in Roanokes 27th confirmed homicide this year, city police reported.

The latest homicide occurred at about 2:10 a.m. Thursday in the 800 block of Hunt Avenue Northwest, according to police.

Officers responded to the area and found a man with injuries that did not appear life-threatening outside a residence in the area, according to a police news release.

Officers were told that there were other victims. Inside a residence, they found two more men, one with injuries that did not appear life-threatening and one with injuries that appeared critical, according to the release.

Roanoke Fire-EMS Department personnel took the men with less severe injuries to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital for treatment. The third man was pronounced dead on the scene, according to the release.

The shooting was an isolated incident between involved parties, according to the release.

Officers detained several individuals who were on scene at the time of the shooting. Those individuals were transported to the Roanoke Police Department to speak with detectives, the release states. At this time, no arrests have been made and we are not searching for additional suspects.

The departments investigation continued throughout the morning Thursday, as a forensic vehicle remained on the scene. Police have not identified the man who died in the incident.

The affected apartment complex, called Hunt Manor, is managed by the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority.

This morning, an unfortunate incident occurred within our Hunt Manor community, the housing authority posted on social media. On behalf of the staff and Board of Directors of the RRHA, we wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to the affected family and community. We are actively collaborating with local authorities while they conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.

Thursdays homicide is the second to occur in the Hunt Avenue area in 2023. On Jan. 25, 47-year-old Christopher Sinram was shot and killed in a residence on the streets 700 block.

Sinrams stepson, 20-year-old Christopher Arias, has been charged with his murder. His jury trial is set to begin Nov. 8, according to Virginias online court case information system.

The Roanoke City Sheriffs Office launched a gun violence prevention initiative, called Operation Ceasefire: Victory in the Valley, in September. The agencys goal was to combine forces with local clergy to effect a 30-day rest from shootings.

Vice Mayor Joe Cobb, who also chairs the citys Roanoke Gun Violence Prevention Commission, said Thursday that going nearly 40 days without a homicide was a relief to many citizens, even though it didnt happen during the Ceasefire initiatives timeline.

What it conveys is that a lot of the ongoing efforts are working. Theyre effective, Cobb said in an interview. Im encouraged that as acts of violence are occurring, more people are sharing information. I think thats really helpful.

If we keep working, we can have an impact on reducing gun violence in our city, Mayor Sherman Lea said. The community is getting the word that theres not one entity thats going to solve the problem.

I encourage citizens to be involved in any way they can in our prevention and intervention efforts, Cobb said. We have story after story after story of how through grief people have said, This is what I can do to try and ensure that this doesnt happen again. And the more energy we have like that in our city, the better were going to be, and the healthier were going to be, in the long term.

Information about any Roanoke shooting can be shared by calling 540-344-8500 or by texting RoanokePD to 274637. Calls and texts can remain anonymous.
A Montgomery County resident claims in a recent court filing that he was forced to resign from his job as a state trooper after he reported his supervisors misbehavior.

The mans allegations, listed in a civil court document filed Oct. 13 in Richmond Circuit Court, include that his state police supervisors crafted a false report about him, creating a paper trail that led to his forced termination.

Among the state police employees listed as defendants in the filing are Sgt. Jason Stitt, Capt. Richard Denny, First Sgt. Jerry W. Smith, Maj. Karen Sterling, Sgt. William Murphy and Superintendent Gary T. Settle.

In June 2020, Trooper John R. Thompson Jr. provided a report to Capt. Robert P. Chappell Jr. with the agencys internal affairs department describing a supervisors misconduct.

I have explored other options prior to writing this letter by following my chain of command at the area level in order to reach a resolution. I have had closed door meetings to report the misconduct with all of the supervisors for Area 49, an excerpt of his report included in the court filing reads.

But Thompsons efforts had not been successful, as those above him in the chain of command had full knowledge of the inappropriate conduct and intentionally chose to allow it to persist, the filing claims.

Thompson had observed a superior falsifying state documents, altering work schedules without supervisor approval, failing to follow department policy for work hours, rest hours and speed enforcement, manipulating and abusing selective enforcement projects, failing to conduct school security checks as required, failing to conduct enforcement activity for several hours each work day unless called by dispatch, and disregarding the safety of a fellow trooper, according to the Thompsons report to Chappell listed in the filing.

Thompsons attorney, Roanoke-based employment and civil rights lawyer Tommy Strelka, said his client is a trained investigator.

His full report is pretty impressive. Its page after page, single-spaced, well-documented, Strelka said in an interview Wednesday. Mr. Thompson is not an unintelligent man. When he sends that information to the captain related to his co-workers, that he had a good faith belief were up to absolutely no good, you know, you dont do that without thinking it through.

Strelka said that after Thompson submitted his first report to Chappell, there was action that was taken, but it was never made very clear to Mr. Thompson entirely what action was taken.

This is not uncommon in the employment world, for any whistleblower, for anyone who raises their hand to human resources, so to speak, about any significant issue that they find to be unlawful, Strelka said. Nothing official was ever provided, I dont believe.

The court filing alleges that once Thompsons supervisors knew about his report to Chappell, they made Thompsons career a working hell.

Blowing the whistle on a favored colleague in a system best described as a good old boy culture did not come without consequences, the document reads. Mr. Thompson was ostracized and practically demonized by his peers within southwest Virginia.

The good old boy network is just a southern turn of phrase that implicitly provides an understanding of a biased network of people in power and favored individuals, Strelka said. Thats seemingly what Mr. Thompson ran into.

Thompson claims in the filing that after making his report to Chappell, he received a negative performance evaluation  the first and only during his employment. He also claims he was placed on a false fit for duty evaluation when no evidence supported such a decision and was directed by Denny to seek psychiatric help. He claims his fellow officers made snide remarks and insults both in front of [him] and behind his back.

Ultimately, in October 2022, law enforcement officers angered by Mr. Thompsons whistle blowing created a maliciously false series of allegations and submitted this false report to Internal Affairs, the filing reads.

Among the men who intentionally engaged in the creation, dissemination, and publication of this report, the document continues, were Stitt, Smith and Denny with the state police, plus Christiansburg Police Detective Sgt. Michael Vallejo.

The purpose of the allegations were not to shine sunlight on any alleged misconduct of Mr. Thompson, but rather to provide a paper trail to support the termination of Mr. Thompson, the filing reads.

Thompson was placed on administrative leave in March. When Smith, Denny and Sterling met with Thompson later that month, the filing says, they smiled and laughed at his situation.

Thompson was told then that he would be fired but could immediately resign to save himself the embarrassment, the filing continues.

He chose to resign in order to be able to find subsequent employment, the document reads, but this resignation was by no means voluntary. He was terminated on or about March 27.

Strelka said the termination has been financially devastating for Thompson, who is in his early 50s and had been working for the state police since August 2016. The lawyer said Virginia Retirement System benefits are predicated upon an average of the three highest years of service.

When youre in your 50s, you start earning your maximum potential, Strelka explained. In my experience, its always been a significant loss for any municipal employee or state worker that gets [Virginia Retirement System] benefits if they lose their job in their late 40s, early 50s. That just seems to have a more detrimental effect economically upon them in the long term.

Thompson is requesting $5 million from the listed defendants, who Strelka said he believes are still on the job, for injunctive relief, equitable relief, reinstatement, back pay, front pay, full reinstatement of fringe benefits and seniority rights.

Through the court filing, Thompson also requests a jury trial. Strelka said he expects opposing counsel to respond to Thompsons filing soon.

My law firm has kind of written a book on how to represent whistleblowers against public agencies and officials, so good luck to them, he said. Its a good case.
Representative Jamaal Bowman, a Democrat from New York, has been charged by prosecutors in the District of Columbia for allegedly triggering a false fire alarm in a House office building.

This incident occurred last month and contributed to a chaotic day on Capitol Hill, as Congress worked urgently to prevent a government shutdown, as per The New York Times.

Bowman Faces Charges for False Fire Alarm

The charge against Bowman relates to "willfully and knowingly giving a false alarm of fire, in violation of D.C. code." As a result, he has been ordered to appear in court for arraignment.

In response to the charge, Bowman has expressed his intention to pay a $1,000 fine and issue a formal apology to Capitol Police to have the amount dropped. He said, "I am responsible for activating a fire alarm. I will pay the fine issued, and I look forward to these charges being dropped."

The incident occurred while Democrats tried to delay a vote on a bill to extend the government funding deadline to avoid a government shutdown. Bowman, a former school principal, explained that he had pulled the alarm while attempting to open a door hastily to reach a vote.

He stated, "I thought the alarm would open the door; I was rushing to make a vote. I was trying to get to a door."

However, Republicans raised concerns about the timing of the incident, alleging that Bowman had pulled the fire alarm to delay the vote. Representative Bryan Steil, the chair of the House Administration Committee, questioned Bowman's explanation, stating, "Bowman's excuse does not pass the sniff test.

After pulling the fire alarm, Rep. Bowman fled the scene, passed by multiple Capitol Police officers, and had every opportunity to alert USCP [United States Capitol Police] of his mistake," according to Mail Online.

Read Also: Japan's Top Court Declares Trans Sterilization Requirement Unconstitutional

Bowman's Political Frustration, Legal Consequences

The incident caused significant frustration among Republicans, with Representative Nicole Malliotakis drafting a resolution to expel Bowman from Congress. However, efforts to take action against Bowman within the House were impeded by the ouster of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy and subsequent challenges in finding a new Speaker.

The incident occurred during tense negotiations over government funding. Former Speaker McCarthy introduced a clean continuing resolution (C.R.) to extend funding at 2023 levels.

This surprised and concerned Democrats, who felt they had not been given adequate time to review the document. While Republicans had sought to pass a party-line C.R. with funding cuts and border security provisions, they ultimately agreed to a clean funding extension with Democratic support.

Bowman's act of triggering the fire alarm further exacerbated the situation, with Republicans asserting that it was intended to disrupt the vote. The incident's timing added to the political tension surrounding the government funding debate.

The US Capitol Police have concluded their investigation and referred the case to prosecutors. Bowman has been ordered to appear in DC Superior Court for arraignment on the misdemeanor charge.

Falsely pulling a fire alarm in DC is a misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of six months imprisonment and a fine. Bowman has acknowledged his responsibility for the incident and expressed his commitment to paying the fine.

He hopes that the charges will be dropped after three months if he complies with the conditions of his probation, characterizing the incident as a "lapse in judgment." The case underscores the significance of adhering to the law, even for members of Congress, and the potential consequences of actions that disrupt government proceedings, CBS News reported.

Related Article: House Majority Whip Tom Emmer Wins Speaker Nomination, Drops Bid Shortly After

@ 2023 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A Vinton company will construct the long-discussed pedestrian bridge to carry hikers over Virginia 311 as they make their way along the Appalachian Trail toward popular McAfee Knob.

The Virginia Department of Transportation announced Tuesday that builder Stonewall Bridge was awarded the $1.5 million contract for the pedestrian span. What is expected to be a yearlong project is to begin later this year.

The new bridge will be made from concrete and steel and is to be about 90 feet long and 8 feet wide. It will stand 17 1/2 feet above Virginia 311s roadway, according to a news release from the highway department.

The bridge is to be finished with gray architectural treatments to blend in with the woods and rocks around it, according to the news release.

The project includes a sidewalk ramp for handicapped access to the bridge from the parking area along Virginia 311.

Other agencies involved in bridge planning included the National Park Service, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club, and the Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission, along with Roanoke County.

The bridge became a goal as the agencies sought ways to separate the crowds of hikers that flock to the McAfee Knob trailhead each weekend  and on many weekdays  from traffic on Virginia 311, which has a curve with limited sight distance very near the trailhead parking area. Hikers must cross the road on their way to McAfee Knob.

In the past decade, the highway department has installed rumble strips and signs to try to warn drivers and hikers to watch for one another.

Bridge construction may cause occasional lane closures on Virginia 311, according to VDOT. These are expected to be during nighttime or during the day outside peak travel times.

The trailhead parking lot will be closed during construction but a shuttle service to the trailhead is available from the Interstate 81 Exit 140 park and ride lot, according to the news release. Reservations are encouraged but walk-up service also is available. To check the shuttle schedule or make reservations, visit https://www.roanokecountyva.gov/McAfeeKnobShuttle.

Parking at the trailhead will be restored after the bridge is finished.
A young firefighter who lost his life in the line of duty is being supported by firefighters from near and far.

Curtis Crawford, Smyth County Emergency Services Coordinator, said Monday, Our hearts are really with Abingdon. With such a loss, he said, the whole community is impacted.

Abingdon firefighter Cameron B. Craig, 20, of Saltville, was killed Thursday as he and another firefighter were responding to a call in the Green Springs area of Washington County.

According to the Virginia State Police, the Oct. 19 crash occurred about 5:15 p.m. on Vances Mill Road near Rt. 75. At this stage of the crash investigation, a Friday morning VSP release said, it appears that the tanker truck was traveling south on Vances Mill Road. As it came into a curve, the wheels dropped off the right side of the road. The tanker truck continued off the road, overturned, hit a utility pole and then slid down the embankment on its side.

Craig was thrown from the vehicle and died at the scene. He was wearing a seat belt, according to state police.

The driver of the truck, an unnamed 38-year-old Abingdon man, was transported to Bristol Regional Medical Center, where he was treated for minor injuries and released. He was also wearing a seat belt, according to state police.

Services for Craig were set for Wednesday.

Craig, who also worked for Richardson Ambulance Service, had been a firefighter with the department for the past year and a half, according to a town of Abingdon news release.

On behalf of the town of Abingdon, we would like to express our deepest sympathies to the family of Firefighter Cameron Craig. He was a dedicated member of the Abingdon Fire Department family and will be missed, Mayor Amanda Pillion said.

Friday, as Craigs body was returned home to Saltville from Roanoke, about fire department crews accompanied the procession and showed their respect at intersections and from overpasses.

In Saltville, Crawford said, about 45 firefighting vehicles encircled D.R. Henderson Funeral Home in a show of respect.

Crawford, a Saltville resident, said once he learned that Craig was from the community, he wanted Smyth County to show its full support. Smyth County will do anything we can to help, he said.

Monday, he said he met with Chilhowie Fire & EMS Chief David Haynes and Marion Fire-EMS Chief Richard Keesling about the personnel and equipment they could share to cover Abingdon FDs service area Tuesday during the visitation period and Wednesday for the funeral.

While he didnt know Craig, Haynes knows something of the departments pain, having lost a member in the past. As well, he and Abingdons chief are longtime friends.

While its traditional to show such support, Crawford said, Smyth firefighters know what the backing means.

Other area departments covered for them when Johnny Earl Morphew Jr. and Charles Dog Woods died in the line of duty.

The 46-year-old Morphew, of Chilhowie, was headed for work as a helicopter flight paramedic around 4:30 a.m. on Jan. 28, 2009, when a van driven by a drunk driver traveling north in the southward lanes of Interstate 81 at Abingdon fatally struck Morphews car.

On Sept. 23, 2020, Adwolfe Volunteer Fireman Charles Dog Woods died after he went into cardiac arrest while helping battle flames at a house fire. He was 58 years old.

The Abingdon news release about Craig acknowledged the support and its meaning, saying, We also thank the community for the outpouring of support and love that has been shown to the Abingdon Fire Department and the Craig family.

On D.R. Hendersons online tribute hall, Captain Langford with the New York City Fire Dept (FDNY) wrote, Prayers and condolences to the family and friends of this brave civil servant. May he Rest in Peace.

Several other fire departments also expressed their sympathy as did the wife of a firefighter lost in the line of duty earlier this year.

Debbie Wood wrote of her empathy stemming from the loss of her husband, Rocky. She said, .I know all too well what it is to suffer the loss of your hero. My husband of 28 years was killed in March of this year while fighting a wildfire in Buchanan County. He was a full time employee of the Virginia Dept. of Forestry, but was a 30+ year member of our Haysi Volunteer Fire Department. The fire service is a family  and my family grieves along with you today. May God comfort you in the days ahead. Be proud of your hero.

In its news release, the town of Abingdon also expressed its sympathy, saying, We would like to express our condolences to the Craig family. Our love and prayers continue to be with you during this difficult time.
The Virginia Department of Corrections on Wednesday announced the capture of Naseem Roulack, 21, who was serving a 13-year sentence at Greensville Correctional Center for a string of crimes.

He was captured by the U.S. Marshals Service and Fairfax County police officers at around 9 a.m. Wednesday.

I want to thank the U.S. Marshals Service, Virginia State Police, Fairfax County Police Department and other local, state and federal law enforcement partners for their tireless efforts assisting the VADOCs investigators and officers in the effort to recapture this inmate, VADOC Director Chadwick Dotson said in a statement.

VADOC declined to release any additional information, citing the ongoing investigation into Roulack's escape.

"Glad he's off the street," a representative for Fairfax police told The Times-Dispatch. The representative referred all questions to the U.S. Marshals Service, which could not immediately be reached for comment.

Roulack had evaded capture for more than two months after walking out of Bon Secours St. Mary's Hospital, where he had been transferred to receive medical treatment for an undisclosed reason. Sources close to the investigation alleged that Roulack feigned a drug overdose to be taken to the hospital, where escaping VADOC custody would be easier. Officials did not confirm that report.

The VADOC corrections officers charged with Roulack's security admitted they were asleep when Roulack fled the facility. The corrections officers resigned Aug. 23, according to VADOC officials.

Roulack's escape took him across state lines, where he became a suspect in a Sept. 1 armed carjacking in Maryland. The U.S. Marshals Service increased the reward for information leading to Roulack's capture to $20,000 a few days after announcing Roulack was suspected in the carjacking.

It was not immediately clear where or under what circumstances Roulack was apprehended.
Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Captain or boat owner: Lawyers trade blame for 2019 fire that killed 34 people as trial begins

Federal prosecutors say the captain of a scuba dive boat should be held responsible for the deaths of 34 people killed in a fire aboard the vessel in 2019
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George Washington Carver was born around 1864 near Diamond Grove, Missouri, under conditions of servitude. As a young boy, he had a deep fascination with plants and spent a lot of his time studying and experimenting with them. He developed a reputation in his local community for his ability to diagnose and treat plant diseases, which led to him being called "The Plant Doctor."

His educational journey began at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, where he attended for a short time before transferring to Iowa State Agricultural College (now known as Iowa State University) in Ames, Iowa, in 1891. In fact, he became the first Black American student to enroll at Iowa State.

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After completing his undergraduate studies, Carver pursued a master's degree in agricultural science at the same institution. It was during this time that he conducted research and made significant contributions to the field of agriculture.

Despite the racial challenges he faced during his time, Carver went on to establish himself as a pioneering Black American scientist at the school. While he is widely celebrated for his groundbreaking work with peanuts, Carver's research extended to other crops like soybeans and sweet potatoes.

The Tuskegee Institute

In 1896, Carver accepted an invitation from Booker T. Washington to lead the Agriculture Department at the recently formed Tuskegee Institute, where he would remain  teaching and conducting laboratory work  for most of his life.

At Tuskegee, George Washington Carver's work included serving as a teacher, testing crop varieties and fertilizers, writing bulletins for farmers and managing research at his experiment station.

Within the esteemed walls of Tuskegee, Carver's multifaceted talents shone brightly. He wasn't just an educator imparting knowledge; he was an experimenter, rigorously testing various crop varieties and exploring the efficacy of different fertilizers. With a keen understanding of the challenges local farmers faced, Carver penned informative bulletins, offering them insights and advice.

His commitment extended to hands-on research at his experiment station, where he sought to discover and propagate sustainable agricultural practices. Under his stewardship, the Tuskegee Institute's agricultural initiatives flourished, becoming a beacon of innovation and knowledge for the broader farming community.

Working With Cotton

While much of Carver's work was devoted to promoting alternatives to cotton for Southern farmers, he didn't completely dismiss the plant. At Tuskegee, he experimented with different varieties of cotton and issued bulletins instructing farmers on crop rotation to rejuvenate cotton fields. He also developed cotton fiber for rope, twine and paper and made a road-paving surface from cotton stalks.

Indeed, few things missed Carver's gaze, as he is credited with making a range of products as varied as concrete reinforcing built from sawdust, wood shavings, synthetic marble and vegetable dyes.
The North Star is called that because its location in the night sky is almost directly over the North Pole, according to Rick Fienberg, a Harvard-trained astronomer and former press officer of the American Astronomical Society.

"So, if you were to stand at the North Pole  latitude 90 degrees north  at night and look straight up, you'd see Polaris directly overhead," Fienberg says via email. "From other latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere, if you face due north at night and look the same angle above the horizon as your latitude (for example, look about halfway up  45 degrees  if you live in Portland, Oregon, at latitude 45 degrees north), you'll see Polaris shining there."

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Polaris is attention-getting, because unlike all the other stars in the sky, it can be found in the same location every night from dusk to dawn, neither rising nor setting, according to Fienberg. Its looming presence leads some people to think of it, mistakenly, as the brightest star in the sky (it's actually the 48th brightest).

Even so, it's about 2,500 times as luminous as our sun because it has more mass and a much larger diameter. But Polaris also happens to be far away for a star that's visible with the naked eye, which reduces its brightness.
Florida officials have issued a directive to state universities and colleges, ordering them to dissolve pro-Palestinian student chapters on their campuses.

This decision comes amidst the ongoing war between Israel and the militant Hamas, as per The Hill.

Terrorist Supporters' Amid Israel-Gaza Tensions

As Israel's recent attacks on Gaza have escalated, college campuses across the United States have seen an outpouring of support for Palestinians from various student groups, including Students for Justice in Palestine.

However, this expression of solidarity has led to swift condemnation from some Jewish academics and prospective employers. The situation has taken a more extreme turn in Florida, where SJP has been labeled as supporting a "terrorist organization."

Chancellor Ray Rodrigues issued a letter to university presidents on behalf of Governor Ron DeSantis, invoking Florida law, which criminalizes knowingly providing material support to designated foreign terrorist organizations.

In the letter, he referenced the US State Department's designation of Hamas as a terrorist group since 1997, a classification also upheld by the European Union and other Western countries. Hamas, which won parliamentary elections in 2006, later violently took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007, effectively splitting the Palestinian territories.

While Hamas governs Gaza, the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, dominated by the Fatah movement, administers semi-autonomous areas in the West Bank. Governor DeSantis, who has set his sights on a presidential bid, has intensified his pro-Israel stance following Hamas attacks in southern Israel on October 7.

These attacks sparked pro- and anti-Israel demonstrations worldwide, and Israel responded with airstrikes. DeSantis sent aid to Israel and proposed a special legislative session to impose new sanctions on Iran, which supports Hamas.

Despite the absence of concrete evidence linking Iran to the recent attacks, no direct implication has been made against the country. Students for Justice in Palestine, a loosely connected network of campus groups advocating for Palestinian rights, has been active in the United States for decades, staging protests and advocating for boycotts against Israel.

The network claims to have more than 200 chapters nationwide. Critics argue that the ban on SJP is part of a broader campaign by Governor DeSantis to suppress freedom of speech on college campuses, according to AP News.

Read Also: Statement from President Joe Biden on the Election of Mike Johnson as Speaker of the House

Florida's SJP Ban Ignites Campus Free Speech Debate

Palestine Legal, an organization offering legal support to pro-Palestinian groups, stated that the move is consistent with DeSantis' efforts to undermine education, freedom of speech, and social justice movements.

Under his leadership, Florida has restricted discussions of race in schools, prohibited state universities from investing in diversity and inclusion programs, and taken actions that opponents argue curtail free speech on campuses.

SJP has been instrumental in the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement on campuses, calling for action against Israel to address concerns about its treatment of Palestinians.

Critics of the ban argue that it is unconstitutional and dangerous, contending that the government lacks the legal authority to compel colleges to disband SJP chapters.

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a free speech advocacy group, warns that if unchallenged, such actions could set a precedent for government suppression of political beliefs.

The ban on SJP comes amid political infighting within the state, with the only Jewish Republican in the Florida Legislature, Rep. Randy Fine, switching his support in the presidential election from DeSantis to former President Donald Trump.

Fine claimed that DeSantis did not support his pro-Israel rhetoric with concrete actions. The ban on SJP was implemented shortly after Fine publicly criticized the administration for its lack of action against the student group.

While DeSantis's office insists that the ban had been in the works for more than a week and was unrelated to Fine's endorsement of Trump, the timing raises questions about the political motivations behind the move.

In response to the ban, Students for Justice in Palestine and other groups called for a national student walkout on college campuses to demand an end to Israeli attacks on Gaza and US financial support for Israel.

These walkouts were planned on campuses from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, to the University of California, Los Angeles, underscoring the passionate divisions surrounding this issue and the ongoing controversy over freedom of speech on campus, News 18 reported.

Related Article: California Found San Francisco Responsible for More Housing Roadblocks Than Other Cities in the State

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First ever study of wartime deepfakes reveals their impact, University College Cork researchers examining deepfake videos. Credit: UCCMax Bell

A first ever study of wartime deepfake videos reveals their impact on news media and outlines implications for social media companies, media organizations and governments.

Deepfakes are artificially manipulated audio-visual material. Most deepfake videos involve the production of a fake 'face' constructed by artificial intelligence, that is merged with an authentic video, in order to create a video of an event that never really took place. Although fake, they can look convincing and are often produced to imitate or mimic an individual.

Researchers at University College Cork (UCC) examined tweets during the current Russian-Ukrainian war, in what is the first analysis of the use of deepfakes in wartime misinformation and propaganda. The study is published today (25th Octoberlink will be live when embargo lifts) in PLOS ONE.

"A new type of weapon in the propaganda war'

Close to 5,000 tweets on X (formerly Twitter) in the first seven months of 2022 were analysed in the UCC study to explore how people react to deepfake content online, and to uncover evidence of previously theorised harms of deepfakes on trust. As deepfake technology becomes increasingly accessible, it is important to understand how such threats emerge over social media.

The Russo-Ukrainian War presented the first real-life example of deepfakes being used in warfare. The researchers highlight examples of Deepfake videos during this war including, the use of video game footage as evidence of the urban myth fighter pilot "The Ghost of Kyiv," a deepfake of Russian president Vladimir Putin, showing the Russian, president announcing peace with Ukraine, and the hacking of a Ukrainian news website to display a deepfaked message of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky surrendering.

A first ever study of wartime deepfake videos reveals their impact. Pictured (L-R) John Twomey, University College Cork researcher & Dr Conor Linehan. Credit: UCC - Max Bell

Undermining trust

The study found fears of deepfakes often undermined users trust in the footage they were receiving from the conflict to the point where they lost trust in any footage coming from the conflict. The study is also the first of its kind to find evidence of online conspiracy theories which incorporate deepfakes.

The researchers found much real media was labelled as deepfakes. The study showed that the lack of deepfake literacy led to significant misunderstandings of what constitutes a deepfake, showing the need to encourage literacy in these new forms of media. However, the study demonstrates that efforts to raise awareness around deepfakes may undermine trust in legitimate videos. News media and governmental agencies need to weigh the benefits of educational deepfakes and pre-bunking against the risks of undermining truth, the study asserts. Similarly, news companies and media should be careful in how they label suspected deepfakes in case they cause suspicion for real media.

The study was led by UCC School of Applied Psychology researcher John Twomey and co-written with fellow researcher Didier Ching, along with Supervisors Dr. Conor Linehan and Dr. Gillian Murphy of UCC, Dr. Matthew Aylett of CereProc Ltd. and Heriot-Watt University, and Prof. Michael Quayle of the University of Limerick.

"Much of the misinformation the team analysed in the X (formerly Twitter) discourse dataset surprisingly came from the labelling of real media as deepfakes. Novel findings about deepfake scepticism also emerged, including a connection between deepfakes fuelling conspiratorial beliefs and unhealthy scepticism. The evidence in this study shows that efforts to raise awareness around deepfakes may undermine our trust in legitimate videos. With the prevalence of deepfakes online, this will cause increasing challenges for news media companies who should be careful in how they label suspected deepfakes in case they cause suspicion around real media" " states John Twomey, UCC researcher

News coverage needs to focus on educating people

"News coverage of deepfakes needs to focus on educating people on what deepfakes are, what their potential is, and both what their current capabilities are and how they will evolve in the coming years" states John Twomey, UCC researcher.

"Researchers and commentators have long feared that deepfakes have the potential to undermine truth, spread misinformation, and undermine trust in the accuracy of news media. Deepfake videos could undermine what we know to be true when fake videos are believed to be authentic and vice versa." states Dr. Conor Linehan, in UCC's School of Applied Psychology.

More information:

Do Deepfake Videos Undermine our Epistemic Trust? A thematic analysis of tweets that discuss deepfakes in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, PLoS ONE (2023). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291668

Provided by University College Cork
The Romanian city of Cluj-Napoca has been awarded the label of the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities this month.

Nine other cities across Europe also received the label which acknowledges their endeavours to engage with local stakeholders, both private and public, and with residents themselves through Climate City Contracts.

Climate-neutral by 2030

These ten cities already form part of select group of 112 cities for the EU Mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030. This initiative provides 'tailor-made advice and support from the Mission Platform to reach climate neutrality by 2030 and inspire other citis to follow suit by 2050,' according to the webse of NetZeroCities, which manages the platform.

Cluj-Napoca has been pioneering various measures as part of the Smart Cities STARDUST project and it submitted its Climate City Contract in April this year for review by the European Commission.

Adrian Raulea, programme manager at Cluj Metropolitan Area, stated: 'The Climate City Contract that the EU has endorsed via this label is a big responsibility for us because all eyes are on us now in Romania. We now have a good plan and we must apply it. By the end of this decade, we would be happy to be among the frontrunners in this mission. Still, this is only the beginning of a long process, and we know that a good start must be followed by a fast-paced race.'

Follower city to examplary city

As part of the STARDUST project, Cluj-Napoca is a 'follower city'one that builds on experience of partner cities, known as 'lighthouse' cities, in terms of the energy transition. The aim is for follower cities to replicate and adapt the smart city measures developed and applied in the lighthouse cities.

The insights and lessons from STARDUST have been decisive in enabling Cluj-Napoca to put together its Climate City Contract: The label is the result of a collective work undertaken by the local administrative ecosystem, in which we play a significant part, says Adrian Raulea. 'Being able to constantly exchange ideas with the partners of the STARDUST project means we are connected to state-of-the-art developments. After we filter them, to suit the local needs and realities, we put them forward to the administrative ecosystem: city hall, county council, decentralised institutions of the government, academia, private partners, NGOs, professional clusters.'

One such measure adopted by Cluj-Napoca was based on the experience of lighthouse city Pamplona, Spain. It involved improving the design of a future net-zero block of flats in Cluj-Napoca's most densly populated district. The solution put forward was to reuse old batteries from electric cars as an energy storage facilitysomething Pamplona had presented during a STARDUST study visit.

According to Adrian Raulea, this measure may well be refined and rolled out on a larger scale in Romania. In this respect, the EU label awarded to Cluj-Napoca will help win over public and private stakeholders and thus accelerate the city's path to climate-neutrality.

Photo credit: Paul Cosmin on Pixabay

Contacts

Coordinator:

Florencio Manteca, CENERCIEMAT FOUNDATION, fmanteca@cener.com

Communication Manager:

Mark Thompson, ICONS, communication@stardustproject.eu

Project website: Stardust (stardustproject.eu)

Twitter: @stardusth2020

LinkedIn: Stardust project

YouTube: Stardust H2020

Provided by iCube Programme
University College Dublin: Is it possible to mitigate the risk of volcanic disasters? Dr. Claire Harnett, an Assistant Professor at University College Dublin (UCD), and a team of researchers from Germany, Sweden and France have won a prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Synergy grant to explore this complex question. The project will receive 10 million in EU funding.

The ERC Synergy grants support ambitious researchers to join forces and pool different skills, knowledge and resources to push the frontiers of our knowledge and address some of the world's most formidable problems.

Dr. Harnett specialises in numerical modelling of volcanic environments. She will work with an international team on the 'ROTTnROCK' project which aims to advance knowledge of volcanic processes that could ultimately help to predict and mitigate the hazards of unexpected eruptions and avert many tragedies worldwide.

On receiving news of the ERC Synergy grant, Dr. Harnett said, "We are really excited to get started on this project, which builds on our growing momentum to understand currently unforeseen volcanic hazards. One of the exciting aspects about the Synergy award is the capacity to build expert teams that will integrate information across four key disciplines (rock physics, geochemistry, remote sensing, and computational modelling) to provide a step-change in our knowledge around volcanic eruptions that are driven by processes other than magma ascent. I would like to thank the Ad Astra Fellow programme and Enterprise Ireland for their support."

What is ROTTnROCK?

Volcanic eruptions threaten more than 10% of the world's population. Scientists monitor volcanoes to discover and understand possible risks and to provide early warnings of eruptions. But despite technological and scientific breakthroughs, certain volcanoes continue to surprise us with sudden and powerful eruptions or catastrophic collapses.

Previous research has shown that a process called hydrothermal alteration, which changes the chemical and physical characteristics of rocks inside a volcano, can turn them rotten and unstable. However, scientists still don't understand how these "soft" volcanoes tend to have unexpected outbursts. This project intends to change our knowledge of hydrothermal alteration and its influence on volcanic risks by merging multiple scientific disciplines such as remote sensing, mineralogy, chemistry, rock mechanics, and modelling. This understanding could help us predict and mitigate the hazards of unexpected volcanic explosions, eventually averting many tragedies worldwide.

This project will draw on the expertise of leading international researchers across key disciplines. Dr. Harnett will work with Professor Thomas R. Walter, GeoForschungsZentrum Potsdam, Germany (Lead PI, ) Professor Valentin R. Troll, Dept. of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Sweden, and Professor Michael J. Heap, Strasbourg Institute of Earth & Environment, France.

37 research groups across Europe were announced as recipients of 2023 ERC Synergy grantswith a total value of 359 millionto tackle complex scientific questions. Recipients include fellow UCD researcher Professor Emma Teeling, whose project 'BATPROTECT' will make significant advancements in our understanding of how bats live longer, healthier lives, and open up new possibilities for improving human health and disease outcomes. This brings UCD's total of current ERC Synergy grants to three.

UCD Interim Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact, Professor Helen Roche said, "We are immensely proud of Professor Teeling and Dr. Harnett in their achievement. UCD is ranked number one in Ireland and 23rd among higher education institutions in Europe for Horizon Europe funding. These awards really exemplify the excellence of our outstanding researchers, who are building important international collaborations to address global challenges. I congratulate the winners and look forward to following their exciting work."

Iliana Ivanova, ERC Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, said, "Some scientific questions are too complex to be addressed by researchers working on their own. Challenges such as climate change or ageing span research disciplines and call for diverse methods, skills and resources. This is why the European Research Council today awarded 37 Synergy Grants, empowering small groups of top researchers working across disciplines to tackle serious problems. I wish them success in this important work."

ERC President Professor Maria Leptin said, "Congratulations to all the winners! The selected projects are shining examples of audacious scientific thinking, and I eagerly await the outcomes of these collaborative endeavours. I am also happy to see some European researchers teaming up with peers across several continents. Together, they are well-equipped to tackle the substantial scientific questions that our world is yearning to find answers to."

The ERC Synergy Grant scheme is part of the EU's research and innovation programme, Horizon Europe. Applicants submitted 395 proposals in this call. The 37 winning projects involve 135 researchers who will carry out their projects at 114 universities and research centres in 19 countries across Europe and beyond.

More information:

For further information, please contact Emma Loughney, UCD Communications Research Officer at emma.loughney@ucd.ie

Notes to the editor

ERC Synergy Grants

The Synergy Grant scheme is aimed at a group of two to maximum four Principal Investigators (PIs) working together and bringing different skills and resources to tackle ambitious research problems. One Principal Investigator per research group can be hosted or engaged by an institution outside of the EU or Associated Countries. More information.

Provided by University College Dublin
The BATPROTECT team: Profs. Michael Hiller, Emma Teeling, Linfa Wang and Bjorn Schumacher (left-right). Credit: n/a

University College Dublin: Do bats hold the secret to health and longevity? A team led by Professor Emma Teeling, Full Professor of Zoology at University College Dublin (UCD), has won a prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Synergy grant of almost 12 million, to explore this fascinating question.

The ERC Synergy grants support ambitious researchers to join forces and pool different skills, knowledge and resources to push the frontiers of our knowledge and address some of the world's most formidable problems.

Professor Teeling has pioneered global research into the development of bats as new models for healthy ageing and disease tolerance. She will lead the groundbreaking Synergy project 'BATPROTECT', involving a team of 22 researchersincluding leading experts from Germany and Singapore. The project is expected to achieve a step-change in our understanding of bats' extended healthspan and disease resistance.

Professor Teeling said, "We have just been given the most extraordinary opportunity to finally harness the amazing adaptations of bats and provide new ways to slow down human ageing and disease resistance. This ERC Synergy grant has enabled us to unite the fields of bat biology, virology, immunology, genomics and gerontology, across Europe and Asia, in order to achieve our goals.

We are thrilled and excited to work together and uncover how we can live longer, healthier lives by learning from bats. I would like to thank the Irish Research Council and Science Foundation Ireland for initially funding this research and Enterprise Ireland for their support."

About the BATPROTECT project

The challenges posed by ageing and infectious diseases in our societies come with significant medical, financial, and emotional burdens. While previous research has struggled to offer solutions to increase human health span and protect against the harmful effects of infections, batsthe only flying mammalshave naturally addressed both of these problems.

Even though bats serve as hosts for numerous dangerous viruses, they usually don't show symptoms of viral infections thanks to their unique immune system adaptations. Bats also have exceptional longevity and show little-to-no signs of any age related diseases. The main objective of BATPROTECT is to make significant advancements in our understanding of the specific genetic and biochemical factors within bats that are responsible for their ability to live longer, healthier lives and resist diseases. Uncovering these molecular mechanisms could open up new possibilities for improving human health and disease outcomes.

The project brings together world-leading researchers in bat biology, genomics, immunology, and gerontology. The team's experts include Professor Linfa Wang, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Professor Michael Hiller, Senckenberg Research Institute, Germany, and Professor Bjorn Schumacher, Institute for Genome Stability in Ageing and Disease, CECAD Research Centre, Germany.

Ultimately, this research will deepen our knowledge of how bats manage to stay healthy and resist diseases, potentially paving the way for future therapeutics.

37 research groups across Europe were announced as recipients of 2023 ERC Synergy grantswith a total value of 359 millionto tackle complex scientific questions. Recipients include fellow UCD researcher Dr. Claire Harnett, whose project 'ROTTnROCK' will advance knowledge of volcanic processes to help predict and mitigate the hazards of unexpected eruptions. This brings UCD's total of current ERC Synergy grants to three.

UCD Interim Vice-President for Research, Innovation and Impact, Professor Helen Roche said, "We are immensely proud of Professor Teeling and Dr. Harnett in their achievement. UCD is ranked number one in Ireland and 23rd among higher education institutions in Europe for Horizon Europe funding. These awards really exemplify the excellence of our outstanding researchers, who are building important international collaborations to address global challenges. I congratulate the winners and look forward to following their exciting work."

Iliana Ivanova, ERC Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, said, "Some scientific questions are too complex to be addressed by researchers working on their own. Challenges such as climate change or ageing span research disciplines and call for diverse methods, skills and resources. This is why the European Research Council today awarded 37 Synergy Grants, empowering small groups of top researchers working across disciplines to tackle serious problems. I wish them success in this important work."

ERC President Professor Maria Leptin said, "Congratulations to all the winners! The selected projects are shining examples of audacious scientific thinking, and I eagerly await the outcomes of these collaborative endeavours. I am also happy to see some European researchers teaming up with peers across several continents. Together, they are well-equipped to tackle the substantial scientific questions that our world is yearning to find answers to."

The ERC Synergy Grant scheme is part of the EU's research and innovation programme, Horizon Europe. Applicants submitted 395 proposals in this call. The 37 winning projects involve 135 researchers who will carry out their projects at 114 universities and research centres in 19 countries across Europe and beyond.

More information:

For further information, please contact Emma Loughney, UCD Communications Research Officer at emma.loughney@ucd.ie

Notes for editors

ERC Synergy Grants

The Synergy Grant scheme is aimed at a group of two to maximum four Principal Investigators (PIs) working together and bringing different skills and resources to tackle ambitious research problems. One Principal Investigator per research group can be hosted or engaged by an institution outside of the EU or Associated Countries. More information.

About the ERC

The ERC, set up by the European Union in 2007, is the premier European funding organisation for excellent frontier research. It funds creative researchers of any nationality and age, to run projects based across Europe. The ERC offers four core grant schemes: Starting Grants, Consolidator Grants, Advanced Grants and Synergy Grants. With its additional Proof of Concept Grant scheme, the ERC helps grantees to bridge the gap between their pioneering research and early phases of its commercialisation. The ERC is led by an independent governing body, the Scientific Council. Since November 2021, Maria Leptin is the President of the ERC. The overall ERC budget from 2021 to 2027 is more than 16 billion, as part of the Horizon Europe programme, under the responsibility of European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Iliana Ivanova.

Provided by University College Dublin
FLORENCE, S.C.  The South Carolina Ports Authority has a $9.7 billion economic impact on the Pee Dee Region and supports 1 in 12 of the regions jobs, according to a new study.

The findings of the 2023 S.C. Ports Economic Impact Study were presented by its author, Joseph Von Nessen, a research economist and professor with the University of South Carolina, at a Ports Authority luncheon held at the Florence Center on Monday.

PXL_20231023_163626244.MP.jpg Joseph Von Nessen, a research economist and professor with the University of South Carolina, presented the finds of his recent 2023 S.C. Ports

Ports Authority President and CEO Barbara Melvin said the nearby Inland Port Dillon, which hauls cargo from the Pee Dee to the port in Charleston by rail, was the authoritys shining star in 2023.

They grew their cargo base by more than 50% and truly stood out among all of our terminals as best performers, and we look forward to growing together for years to come, Melvin said.

To give context to the numbers, the Ports Authority brought representatives of two of its regular customers up on stage for a panel discussion about Inland Port Dillon.

Leslie Thompson, the co-owner of C&M Grains in Latta, said the port has caused her business to expand dramatically by allowing her, and thus the farmers she buys from, to reach a global market.

Since partnering with the inland port, the company has more than doubled its storage capabilities, has invested in new equipment and increased employment by more than 25%, according to Thompson. In 2022s soybean season, the company moved around 3,440 containers of soybeans compared to the roughly 830 it moved in its first year.

I think the Dillon Inland Port has helped to give the farmers of South Carolina a boost and a base of support by connecting them to the foreign trade market, and in return, this flows to all the local businesses related to agriculture, and we are glad to be a part of it, she said.

PXL_20231023_170546465.jpg Representatives from S.C. Ports and local businesses spoke in a panel discussion about the impact on Inland Port Dillon. From left to right: B

The company buys from farmers across North Carolina and South Carolina in counties including Dillon, Marlboro, Florence, Marion, Williamsburg, Darlington, Chesterfield, Horry, Lee, Clarendon and Robeson.

C&M Grains put through 23% of all the soybeans grown across South Carolina in 2022, according to Thompson.

The other company represented at the panel discussion was Harbor Freight, which operates a distribution center near Inland Port Dillon. Terence Anderson, Harbor Freight's representative at the discussion, said the company has been able to expand because of the port.

When the inland port came online in 2018, the Harbor Freight distribution center was around two million square feet, employed around 850 people and serviced roughly 350 stores, according to Anderson.

Five years later, the center has expanded to over three million square feet, employs 2300 people during its peak season and services 755 stores, he said. The upgrades have helped the center move thousands more containers each year.

With growth has come a larger focus on giving back to the companys employees and community.

In the last seven years, Harbor Frieghts Dillon distribution center has raised wages by over 150%, according to Anderson. He said the company has also invested in new equipment to make the heavy work easier for employees.

The relationship between businesses and Inland Port Dillon goes beyond just dropping off full containers and picking up empty ones. Anderson said he has a daily partnership with the port that facilitates open and smooth communication.

Thompson said port officials even worked with her company during its first expansion to make sure it would be ready to work with the inland port.

Customer outreach is driving Inland Port Dillons continued growth, according to terminal manager Michael Elmore. He told the Morning News after the luncheon that, since the pandemic, the inland port has stepped in to help its customers with logistics and equipment.

It's good to see that we can take the local farmers and local businesses and actually give them an opportunity to get into the global market, Elmore said.

The authority is having a similar impact across the state and abroad, according to the economic impact study. It is estimated to have a statewide economic impact of $86.7 billion annually and contribute directly or indirectly to over 260,000 jobs, which is 1 in 9 of all jobs statewide.

The South Carolina Ports Authority is a principal asset for South Carolinas economy, said Nessen, the studys author. It is a very simple conclusion that comes out of all the data.

Advanced manufacturing and retail or distribution businesses are the industries Nessen said will be primarily responsible for the long-term economic success of South Carolina, and they are also the two industries supported heavily by the ports.

Of all the goods exported from South Carolina ports, 73% come from companies located in South Carolina. Those companies and those that support them pay their employees more than the state average and hire diverse candidates, according to Nessen.

When factoring in surrounding states, South Carolina ports have a total economic impact of $96.8 billion.

This is improving the competitive landscape of the southeastern United States, Nessen said. More people are moving to this region of the country, more businesses are becoming attracted to this region, in large part because the port is here.
The latest episode of Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles is in partnership with the Tulsa World to introduce the story of the Osage Reign of Terror and the feature film Killers of the Flower Moon. In this episode, show producer Ambre Moton is joined by three writers from the Tulsa World, Randy Krehbiel, Jimmie Tramel and Tim Stanley, to discuss how the Bureau of Investigation came to investigate the killings, the handling of the case, the people held responsible for the killings and why the federal government had jurisdiction.

More episodes on the Reign of Terror and "Killers of the Flower Moon"

How the Osage Tribe became rich before the Reign of Terror | Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles podcast In this season we introduce the story of the Osage Reign of Terror and its connection to the upcoming Martin Scorsese film "Killers of the Flower Moon."

The environment of fear and crimes that made up the Reign of Terror | Late Edition: Crime Beat Chronicles podcast In this season we continue the story of the Osage Reign of Terror and its connection to the new Martin Scorsese film "Killers of the Flower Moon."

Episode transcript

Note: The following transcript was created by Slack and may contain misspellings and other inaccuracies as it was generated automatically:

Welcome to Late Edition Crime Beat Chronicles, a Lee Enterprises Podcast. I'm Ambre Moton, the producer and editor of the show, filling in for Nat Cardona who's taking some well-deserved time off.

If you haven't listened to the first two episodes of our series about the Osage reign of terror, please go back and listen to those before starting this one. So far, we've talked about the history of the Osage tribe and how they ended up in what became the state of Oklahoma.

Their oil rich land. And how those rights were divided. And the horrible series of murders or suspicious deaths. Kidnappings and the environment of fear that made up what historians and journalists call the reign of terror. This week we're talking about the investigations into the crimes, what they found and more. Randy Krehbiel of The Tulsa World reminds us about how difficult it was to get proper investigations into the deaths of the Osage community.

Who hired a private detectives to find the cause for the suspicious deaths? The Osage Tribal Council finally petitioned the federal government to send investigators, and in April of 1923, the Bureau of Investigation, the precursor to the FBI, assigned agents to the case. Here's what Randy had to say about the investigation.

Well, it was called the reign of terror, because people just lived in terror. They were afraid to to talk. And when the FBI came in there in 1923 to try and sort things out in their in their letters and reports and so forth from that time, you know, they talk about how people are just terrified to talk and and they would not talk to outsiders at all.

And, in fact, this is just been talked about a lot with with this book and movie. They wound up putting some some men undercover to try and insinuate themselves into the community so they could get information because people were afraid if they if they told what they knew or what they thought and they were honest about it, they they'd be killed.

And and this and this was true of a lot of a lot of people. And, you know, I think Mollie Burkhart, at one time, she told her priest that she was afraid. People just, you know, people people who were not part of the and even some of them who were part of the these these organizations that were that were doing these things were afraid to talk about it.

And sometimes they were afraid to talk about it because they were involved, too. You know, but but they often they were afraid to talk about it because of repercussions against themselves.

Tulsa World's Jimmy Trammel commented about the investigation's primary target. Who were the the FBI, you know, kind of focusing on or suspecting of all these crimes?

Well, Jesse Plemons plays the FBI character, I think, in the in the film. And as far as the actual suspects, you had some other people had kind of amateurish early tried to be the detective or figured this out or, you know, paid to find things out. What ended up happening was the gentleman who was ultimately the suspect and the primary culprit and was put on trial, many people was like, oh, my, he couldn't it couldn't be that guy.

He couldn't do it because he's friendly. He was probably the most soldiers. But I mean, you just never know. I mean, it was some kind of wolf in sheep's clothing kind of deal.

I asked Tulsa World's Tim Stanley about how well the boy investigated and who they held responsible for the 24 murders that they determined were on an official record.

Federal investigators did a good job in so far as it went. I mean, they did they did investigate it. They did bring charges. And they did get convictions. I think the problem is, is that they were more or less content to kind of tie a bow on the whole thing at that point and then move on, which I mean, that's we see that even today in cases of mass killings or where you have serial killers or who are suspected of being connected to any number of deaths, once they get the conviction on on one or two deaths and they get that person off the street, often that's the end of it.

You know, for them that, you know, the value in the case to them has, you know, they've they've achieved. But that's yeah. I mean, I think that's kind of what you had here is it was investigated and the federal agency which you know, as we may have discussed previously, the one that it would become the FBI, they did they did a solid job and bringing at least some justice in this case.

But they were they didn't really want to dig any further than than just the initial investigation. I mean, J. Edgar Hoover, you know, who was the boss at the time? You know, he got he was well-known for enjoying publicity. And he saw that as valuable to the agency. And he's right. I mean, public relations matter. So, you know, coming in and getting this getting some convictions here, getting a lot of good press out of it, I think satisfied him.

And he had no reason to to investigate it or direct that it be investigated further. So, yeah, unfortunate. But you know what that leads us here. You know, 100 years later and tribal members over the decades leaves us all asking a lot of questions that unfortunately can never be answered.

How many people were eventually held responsible or convicted, at least of some of these crimes?

There were three principal convictions. And the one that's, you know, most significant is the trial and conviction of William Hale and two of the others who were convicted along with him were associates of his. He he has always been considered the mastermind behind many in the slayings, although, again, I think, as we just discussed, the investigators were pretty happy to hang the whole thing on him that made it, you know, a cleaner case and then they could move on in all likelihood.

You know, there were many other perpetrators acting independently of Mr. Hale, just opportunists, again, close family members who saw an opportunity to inherit. He was the primary conviction. He was. And he was important, very significant. Even if even if the feds didn't, you know, go any further than this. I mean, it's just, you know, without a doubt, he was behind several of them.

And, you know, he ended up I think everyone, the three Hale and his associates were given life sentences, but they were all eventually paroled after just a handful of years, which, you know, is kind of a sad, you know, footnote to this is that while they did face justice, well, they were convicted. You know, they they did end up not serving all of that long.

And so while the people obviously it's often this way with justice, but obviously the people that they killed, you know, that that was it for them that these guys did eventually get to get out. But yeah, so three primary, there may have been some others and some tangentially related cases, but three primary convictions. And with William Hale being the chief one.

We have to take a quick break. So don't go too far. And Randy added more details about those held responsible and a little about those who weren't. How many people were held responsible for the reign of terror?

Almost no one. Almost no one. So in the case of the murders that are highlighted in killers of the flower moon, the two main defendants, as it turned out, were Bill Hale, who was accused of being that kind of the mastermind, and a guy named John Ramsey, who was kind of a ne'er do well cowboy, who basically just, you know, did whatever Hale told him to do.

And so each of them was tried three times in federal court for the same murder. And and they were of the first time was a hung jury. They were convicted. This is they were convicted in the next two. And and after the first conviction, there was an appeal. And so they had to be tried again. So those two guys went to prison.

Molly Burkhart has been also went to prison. A guy named Kelsey Mawson who killed Anna Brown, who was who was Molly Burkhart sister, he went to prison. Byron Burkhart, who was a Molly Burkhart brother in law, even though he had confessed to killing Hannah Brown, never went to prison. He he testified against Kelsey Morse and in his trial ended in a hung jury.

He was never retried. And I'm getting a little bit off your your question here, but I think you'll find this interesting. In the sixties, there was an Osage woman die and she left behind a letter that said, if something happens to me, look at Byron. Well, she was living with Byron Burkhart, who had been involved in these things 40 years before and in and again, he nothing ever happened to him.

So I think there were some others that were prosecuted, but but they were very few. And one of the things you realize, especially in going through these FBI papers and reading the trial stories, is how hard it was to get convictions in these things. And and emails case. He had a lot of money and he just pretty blatantly went out and bought tried to buy alibis.

I mean the the federal officials and some of the state officials that they were working with were just furious at what they considered to be dishonest and unethical behavior, behavior by his lawyers and some of these lawyers were pretty well known. One of them was a former attorney general in the state of Oklahoma, the the his defense lawyers.

So the answer to your question is not many and not only not many, you know, go to prison over this. They really didn't stay very long. They'll have all got out in 16 years. But Burkhart got out before that but then got in trouble again. He violated parole. And so they put him back in in prison. Kelsey Morrison got out in a few years and was killed in a shootout in Texas.

So, you know, most of these guys, they didn't serve very long in it. I remember, you know, I was reading some of this stuff and at the same time, we had the the Jones case going on here. And and, you know, whether you think he's guilty or whatever. But I just I couldn't help thinking about the difference in the way, you know, we think about that, at least in Oklahoma.

It's pretty routine for people to get life without parole, if not the death penalty. And these guys were out in 16 years. So, you know, I'm sure somebody who is a lot smarter than I am to try and figure out what all of the different racial biases and so forth were in the criminal justice system or in the criminal justice system.

I will say just in general, at that time, they didn't they tended not to keep people in prison any longer than they had to. They were you know, they were.

It wasn't for profit back then?

It wasn't. Well, no, it was it was a cost. And a lot of the states didn't have a lot of money to to they'd rather turn the guys loose and than keep housing and feeding them.

Right. Yeah, exactly.

How did the government kind of impact this? The FBI came in to investigate. Was the federal government making sure allocations and money were going to the right places and right people? Was it state or was it tribal responsibility?

So in theory and this is one of the things that we're still fighting about in Oklahoma, but in theory, the the Osage reservation was dissolved, that statehood. And that's pretty much held up even with some recent Supreme Court decisions that have decided that some of the other reservations weren't dissolved, that statehood. So it was dissolved, that statehood. However, you still had the Osage is owned a lot of the land there because it had been allotted to them.

So again, this gets a little complicated, but the state officials did not think they could get a conviction in this case, in state court and in Pawhuska. They wanted the federal government to come in. They wanted. And so the federal government has jurisdiction over Indian land. And and so and there was a lot of discussion at the time to our guys even have any kind of authority here.

The the FBI was not even the FBI at that time. It was just the Bureau of Investigation in the Department of Justice. And it had very, very limited authority. And so the key sort of the key thing in bringing this case down, or one of the key things was that one of the men who who was killed, Henry Roan, was killed on an allotment that was still owned by the original L.A. The federal judge in Oklahoma originally ruled that the federal government didn't have authority over that allotment, and it went up to the U.S. Supreme Court.

The US Supreme Court said no and allotment is Indian land. And that means the federal the federal government has the authority to to to do this. And so almost all of the real police work, if you will, on this was done by the by the Bureau of Investigation. And they were helped by somewhat by state and local officials.

But in their letters, they talk about they just didn't feel like there were many of those people they could trust because of their interest in, first of all, what was going on in Osage County. But then more broadly, you know, they did not want anybody looking too closely into the what was going on with these Indian allotments and in the mineral rights.

So. So the involvement of the federal government was key. It's really unlikely that that anything could have been done in the Osage Nation, had actually gone to Congress and asked them to intervene. The Osage is pay a big part and maybe all of the federal government's expenses in prosecuting this case. They paid the federal government to investigate these, or at least they paid the expenses of the federal government to do that.

I think another important person in this does not get a lot of attention was Charles Curtis. Charles Curtis was a U.S. senator from Kansas, his whose mother was a college Indian, who was born in in that in what is now Oklahoma. And he was later the vice president of the United States. And he got involved in it and and pushed the Department of Justice to do something.

And that, folks, is where we're leaving it for this episode. Thanks for listening to Late Edition Crime Beat Chronicles. Don't forget to hit that. Subscribe button so you don't miss what's coming up next. A look at where the head write stand currently with the Osages and how the Reign of Terror has its own place in pop culture.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan has called Hamas "liberators" and condemned the West for not stopping Israel's assault on Gaza.

Turkey's president said on Wednesday he was abandoning plans to go to Israel, vowing "we will not go".

Referring to a past meeting with his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu in New York, he said: I shook this mans hand, we had good intentions but he abused us.

His fiery speech was made in front of Turkish lawmakers, who chanted down with Israel and Allah Abkar (God is great).

Relations could have been different but that will no longer happen, unfortunately, added the Turkish president.

Erdogan condemned Israel, claiming you will not find any other state whose army behaves with such inhumanity.

Since Hamas's surprise attack against southern Israel on 7 October, which killed 1,400 people, Israel has bombed the Gaza Strip and laid siege to its population.

Some 5,800 people have been killed in Israeli strikes, according to Hamas-controlled health authorities.

Erdogan claimed the militant Palestinian group were not terrorists, but liberators who protect their land.

Hamas is not a terrorist group, it is a group of liberators who protect their land, he said.

Turkey's leader then attacked "Western powers [who] shed tears for Israel and do nothing else", blasting their "incapacity to stop Israel".

That those who mobilised the world in favour of Ukraine did not speak out against the massacres in Gaza is the most blatant sign of their hypocrisy, he claimed.

As long as innocent people continue to die in Gaza, no ship or plane sent to our region will bring peace.

The Turkish president called for an "independent Palestine", proposing that Turkey act as a "guarantor" of any future agreement.

On Tuesday, Erdogan accused the United Nations Security Council of having "aggravated the crisis" in the Gaza Strip through its "biased" attitude.

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He claimed the international organisation's handling of the crisis had significantly damaged is reputation, saying it was "unable to ensure a ceasefire as quickly as possible and take measures to avoid civilian casualties."

Having called for restraint in the immediate aftermath of Hamas' massacre and Israel's retaliation in Gaza, the Turkish president has struck more of a confrontational tone towards Israel.

He denounced an alleged "genocide" after a strike last week that hit a hospital in Gaza, which sparked protests in Turkey and around the world.

Erdogan immediately attributed the strike to Israel, though it is not clear what happened. The British, French and American governments have since stated that their intelligence agencies believe it was caused by an outgoing rocket fired by Islamic Jihad into Israel, which malfunctioned and fell to the ground.

The leader of Turkey's AK party plans to attend a protest "in support of Palestine" in Istanbul.
SINGAPORE/KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach - 26 October 2023 - Infinaxis Data Centre Platform, a joint venture formed by a fund managed by Gaw Capital Partners and its partners, celebrated the groundbreaking on 25 October as it officially marked the commencement of its first data centre project Infinaxis Data Centre in the tech hub of Cyberjaya.





From left to right: 1. Director and Head of Division of MDEC: Wan Murdani 2. President and Managing Principal of Gaw Capital Partners: Kenneth Gaw 3. Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital: Teo Nie Ching; 4. CEO of Infinaxis Data Centre: Zahri Mirza; 5. Founder and Partner of A3 Capital: Amos Ong; 6. Executive Director of Investment Promotion of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA): Najihah Abadi.



Infinaxis Data Centre Platform was formed in February 2023, to invest into greenfield assets across key markets in the Southeast Asia region, with the aim to create a portfolio of Tier-3 certified data centre assets.



Located in Cyberjaya, one of the largest IDC hubs in Malaysia, the seed investment consists of two greenfield sites with a combined plot area of 12,490 square meters. The business plan is to develop a 12 MW IT Load IDC facility with the GFA of 17,427 sqm on one of the plots. The construction is expected to complete in Q2 2025. The IT capacity potentially will be doubled in the future, with the second plot to be developed as an expansion site. More than 80% of phase 1 has been committed via signed leases and customer letters of intent prior to construction commencement, with the remaining space to be leased to wholesale colocation customers.



Kenneth Gaw, President and Managing Principal of Gaw Capital Partners, commented, "We are thrilled to witness this remarkable moment of groundbreaking of the inaugural infinaxis data centre with our esteemed guests, partners and teams. It is a significant step for the Platform and a testament to our commitment to Malaysia's growing digital economy. We believe in the Malaysia's growing economy and its potential and look forward to participating in fostering digital transformation in Malaysia and Southeast Asia."



Asia represents as one of the geographic frontiers in the data centre space with greater opportunities. The Gaw Capital data centre platform will also comprise data centres located in China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Malaysia.





Hashtag: #GawCapitalPartners



Story continues

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Gaw Capital Partners

Gaw Capital Partners is a uniquely positioned private equity fund management company focusing on real estate markets in Asia Pacific and other high barrier-to-entry markets globally.



Specializing in adding strategic value to under-utilized real estate through redesign and repositioning, Gaw Capital runs an integrated business model with its own in-house asset management operating platforms in commercial, hospitality, property development, logistics, IDC and Education. The firm's investments span the entire spectrum of real estate sectors, including residential development, offices, retail malls, serviced apartments, hotels, logistics warehouses and IDC projects.



Gaw Capital has raised seven commingled funds targeting the APAC region since 2005. The firm also manages value-add/opportunistic funds in the US, a Pan-Asia hospitality fund, a European hospitality fund, a Growth Equity Fund and it also provides services for credit investments and separate account direct investments globally.



Gaw Capital has raised equity of US$22.1 billion since 2005 and commanded assets of US$35.2 billion under management as of Q2 2023.


In this photograph taken in 2022, Matiullah Wesa, head of PenPath and advocate for girls' education in Afghanistan, speaks to children during a class next to his mobile library in the Spin Boldak district of Kandahar Province (Sanaullah SEIAM)

An Afghan activist who campaigned for girls' education was released after seven months in detention on Thursday, his family said, the latest high-profile detainee to be released by Taliban authorities this month.

Matiullah Wesa, the founder of the non-profit organisation PenPath, was arrested in March this year for his work in the education sector, according to his brother Attaullah Wesa.

On Thursday, he was notified of his release after a hearing and was "on his way back home", Attaullah told AFP, adding that he did not yet have information on his brother's physical health.

For more than a decade, PenPath has been dedicated to communicating the importance of education to elders in rural villages, helping to reopen schools for girls and boys closed because of violence, and establishing libraries.

Women's access to education has been tightly restricted since the Taliban government seized power in August 2021, imposing a strict interpretation of Islamic law on the country and largely excluding women from public life.

Teenage girls and women are barred from schools and universities. Thousands of women have lost their government jobs -- or are being paid to stay at home.

Girls and women are also prohibited from entering parks, funfairs or gyms.

Since the ban on secondary schools for girls, Matiullah had continued visiting remote areas to gather support from locals and vowed to continue his campaign.

Attaullah said his brother was sentenced to seven months in jail for "carrying out propaganda against the government, but it was not clarified what that propaganda was".

"I don't know how to react, I have barely slept or eaten since yesterday because I was following his case," he added.

Taliban authorities did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

- 'Good news' -

The arrest sparked an outcry from the United Nations and international rights groups, as well as diplomats and high-profile figures such as humanitarian activist and actor Angelina Jolie.

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Shortly before his release, the London-based Index on Censorship handed Matiullah a Freedom of Expression Award.

Rights groups quickly hailed the news, urging authorities to release other detainees, including women activists Zholya Parsi and Neda Parwani.

"Good news from Afghanistan," Amnesty International posted on social media platform X.

Matiullah "should never have been jailed for promoting girls right to education".

The UN's top expert on rights in Afghanistan Richard Bennett also welcomed the news on X.

He called "for the immediate & unconditional release of all Afghanistan human rights defenders who are arbitrarily detained for standing up for their own rights & the human rights of others".

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) said Parsi and Parwani had been arrested along with members of their families in September in a statement and called for the authorities "to cease arbitrary arrests and detentions".

Recent weeks have seen several detainees released in Afghanistan.

Afghan-French journalist Mortaza Behboudi, who had spent 284 days in jail, was released last week after charges against him, including espionage and illegal support for foreigners, were dropped, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said.

Also in October, four British men were released from detention in Afghanistan, including charity medic Kevin Cornwell, 53, and YouTube star Miles Routledge.

The two men were believed to have been held by the Taliban authorities since January.

abh-sw/dva
Step into a child's dreamland at our Christmas light-up, where cotton candy clouds, festive trees, jingling bells, teddy bears, prancing reindeer, and sweet candy canes come to life!(PHOTO: Orchard Road Business Association) (Orchard Road Business Association)

SINGAPORE  This year will mark the 40th anniversary of the Orchard Road Christmas light-up, and organisers are holding a Christmas Eve street party for the first time to commemorate the occasion.

In a media release issued on Thursday (26 October), the Orchard Road Business Association (ORBA) also revealed that annual event will see three "Great Christmas Villages" offering carnival rides, games and food-and-beverage kiosks for all to enjoy.

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam will be officiating the Light-Up Ceremony at Shaw House Urban Plaza on 16 November to kick off the festivities, which will last until 1 January.

Unveiling the festive delights and whimsical light-up

The Christmas Eve street party will stretch from the Paterson junction of Orchard Road to Bideford junction, and will last from 8pm on 24 December to 12.30am on Christmas Day. Road closures will start from 6pm.

It is a throwback to when Orchard Road hosted the "Swing Singapore" street parties as part of the National Day Celebrations from 1988 to 1991. This new iteration is set to feature DJ and live band performances, Christmas carols, Santa meet-and-greet sessions, food trucks and a countdown to Christmas Day.

Visitors to the Orchard Road light-up can also look forward to three "Great Christmas" villages, which will be located at Shaw House, Ngee Ann City and Plaza Singapura.

The village at Shaw House Urban Plaza will open on 24 November, the Plaza Singapura village on 1 December and the Ngee Ann City Civic Plaza village on 8 December.

As for the Christmas light-up, this year's theme of "A Childs Dreamscape" aims to transport visitors to a child's dream world with cotton candy clouds, Christmas trees, bells, teddy bears, reindeer and candy canes. Warm LED lights in white, yellow, pink, and turquoise 'clouds' will create a dreamy ambience.

Last year, the light-up drew over four million visitors, and ORBA Chairman Mark Shaw told The Straits Times that he hopes that this year's festivities could bring in around five to six million visitors, comparable to pre-COVID levels.

Story continues

Shining bright for a cause

The Light-Up Ceremony, organised by ORBA and Community Chest, aims to raise funds for over 100 social service agencies running more than 200 critical social service programmes.

Other attractions include augmented-reality projections on the facade of Hilton Singapore Orchard and the 25 glass panels lining the pedestrian walkway from ION Orchard to Mandarin Gallery. These visual projections will be active from 1 November to 1 January next year.

Music will also play from speakers on 44 lamp posts on both sides of Orchard Road. A countdown clock will also help revellers usher in the festive seasons on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve.

ORBA said it is also committed to reducing its carbon footprint by repurposing energy-efficient LED lights and fixtures. Furthermore, they plan to install solar panels to power the two set pieces in front of the Mandarin Gallery and Plaza Singapura.

The annual Orchard Road holiday light-up tradition, known as "Christmas on A Great Street," will have more engaging activities. (PHOTO: Orchard Road Business Association) (ORBA)

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.
Amazon warehouse workers are reportedly getting physical injuries and mental stress on the job due to the company's extreme target on speed and surveillance, according to a new study.

Read Also: Amazon Ditches Plastic Packaging in Ohio Warehouse

Working Conditions on Amazon

The Center for Urban Economic Development at the University of Illinois Chicago released a new report discussing the working conditions on Amazon as experienced by its workers. The study surveyed 1,484 Amazon workers within the 451 facilities in 42 states.

"We undertook this study because media reports and government agency investigations have raised serious questions about working conditions at Amazon warehouses," co-author Dr. Beth Gutelius stated. The study revealed that around 41 percent of the workers from Amazon warehouses suffered from injury while working. Meanwhile, 52 percent of them feel burned out from their workload with more than half of them having worked for more than three years.

Employees always feel a sense of pressure to work faster which causes injuries and burnout within the employees. According to the surveyed employees, they are experiencing 60 percent more workplace monitoring at Amazon compared to their previous jobs.

Amazon Work Policies Sparks Concern

Although Amazon has been preaching as the innovator in the warehousing industry, most of the employees feel differently about it. Aside from physical stress and psychosocial stress, almost 70 percent of them were forced to have unpaid time off due to exhaustion.

"The magnitude of the health toll captured in the data should also raise concerns about potential long-term effects on well-being, medical costs, future employment, and overall economic security," co-author Dr. Sanjay Pinto expressed.

Regulators, lawmakers, and rights groups have been criticizing Amazon's working policy. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the U.S. Attorney's Office are already investigating the conditions in several Amazon warehouses. Meanwhile, Amazon argued that the company has made progress in lowering injury rates and has adjusted the working environment.

Related Article: Amazon Will Use AI-Powered Robots to Streamline Warehouse Fulfillment
Four activists from Scientist Rebellion have been sentenced in Germany following non-violent protests in October last year.

Yesterday a judge at the Munich Regional Court convicted the activists from Spain, the US and Italy of criminal damage and trespassing but a further charge of coercion was dropped.

The judge reportedly acknowledged the climate crisis as the greatest challenge for humanity and took into account that their aim was to call attention to the crisis, not to damage property. But the four activists were sentenced to fines totalling 1,680 each.

If they dont pay, they will be required to serve 105 days in prison.

Activists accuse judge of valuing private property higher than life

The activists were sentenced following three days of action against multinational investment company BlackRock, car manufacturer BMW and the German government for their role in fueling the climate crisis.

There are moments in history in which we are called to take a clear position. This is the time, says Lorenzo Masini, one of the activists and a Master of Science in Plant Biotechnology from Italy.

The judge acknowledged the climate emergency, but still, he stated that he had to convict us for damaging private property, apparently valuing private property higher than life.

The case was the first of several against 16 members of the climate campaign group who took part in the three non-violent actions in October last year.

The scientists, whose fields of expertise range from environmental sciences to physics, were held in pre-trial detention for a week at Stadelheim Prison in Munich last year.

Story continues

I have a moral duty to act

The group argued in court that their actions were necessary to stop a climate and ecological catastrophe by pressuring the government to act.

We are in the most dangerous moment for our species, says Nate Rugh, one of the scientists sentenced. Rugh is from the US and conducts research on environmental conflicts from carbon offsets in Spain.

Activists of the climate change group Scientist Rebellion protest outside the Blackrock building in Munich, Germany, October 25, 2022. - REUTERS/Louisa Off

A recent study has calculated that a billion people will die if we go over 2 degrees of global warming, while the world is on course to a 3.2 degree temperature rise by 2100, that would lead to the inevitable collapse of civilization.

As someone who understands the science, I have a moral duty to act.

The actions in October last year saw members of the campaign group pour molasses - to represent oil - at the entrance of BlackRocks offices, cut off traffic at Odeonsplatz in Munich and glue themselves to cars at BMW's headquarters.
Indias high commission in Canada has decided to ease some of its visa restrictions for Canadians a month after a diplomatic row between both countries over the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

The High Commission of India in Ottawa said in a statement released on Wednesday the commission and its consulate generals in Vancouver and Toronto decided to resume visa services after a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures.

The decision to resume services came a month after New Delhi temporarily suspended these services for Canadian citizens due to security threats to its consulates amid a furious diplomatic spat over the killing of Nijjar.

Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said they suspended all categories of visas, including e-visas, for Canadian citizens applying from third countries.

On Wednesday, the high commission of India in Ottawa said that it was resuming business, medical and conference visas, as well as entry for people with family ties in India, starting from 26 October.

However, restrictions appear to be in place for tourists, students, journalists, and missionary visa applicants, the local media reported.

Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation, the statement said.

Canada had also advised its citizens in India to remain vigilant and exercise caution in an update to its travel advisory for the country.

The easing of the visa ban on Wednesday came days after Canada said it was recalling 41 of its 62 diplomats in India. Canada was forced to recall its officials recently after Delhi threatened to strip diplomatic immunity of its staff, Ottawa said.

Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly said Indias demand to Canada to withdraw its diplomats was unreasonable and in violation of international law on diplomatic relations, a criticism rejected by India.

Story continues

The diplomatic crisis between New Delhi and Ottawa began earlier in September when Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the killing of Nijjar in British Columbia.

CTV News reported that Canadas immigration minister Marc Miller called the resumption of visa services a good sign after an anxious time for many Canadians.

Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place, he added.

Harjit Sajjan, Emergency Preparedness minister said: Its good to see that they have resumed that (visa services). It would have been nice (if) they didnt take it in the first place.

There was a Canadian thats killed on Canadian soil, and weve been asking for greater cooperation with the investigation, he added.

Victor Thomas, the Canada-India Business Council head, said it was a promising development for trade. It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times.
The Russian-Swede dual national had been accused of passing Western technology to Russia's military (Fredrik SANDBERG)

A Stockholm court on Thursday acquitted a Russian-Swede accused of passing Western technology to Russia's military, ruling that while he did export the material his actions did not amount to intelligence gathering.

Prosecutors had sought a five-year sentence against Sergei Skvortsov, a 60-year-old dual national who has lived in Sweden since the 1990s running import-export companies.

Skvortsov stood accused of conducting "unlawful intelligence activities" for a decade against Sweden and the United States until his arrest in November 2022.

His lawyer Ulrika Borg told Swedish news agency TT her client was "relieved" by the verdict.

Prosecutors claimed Skvortsov was a "procurement agent" for a vast Russian organisation acquiring technology off-limits to Moscow due to sanctions.

According to experts quoted in the Swedish media, the equipment was mainly electronic devices that can be used in nuclear weapons research.

"He is a procurement agent for the Russian military complex and its intelligence unit GRU," prosecutor Henrik Olin told the Stockholm district court in his final arguments in late September.

"Russia has a need for electronic technology. There is a Russian procurement system, and this system is run by the intelligence services... Skvortsov and his two companies are a part of this system," Olin said.

He said Skvortsov's actions posed "a serious threat" to US and Swedish national security.

But the court found that while Skvortsov had exported the material -- and that Sweden's intelligence agency Sapo has identified a number of his business contacts as GRU officers -- his actions were not tantamount to espionage.

His business activities "constituted a platform for technology acquisition from companies in the West and that advanced technology had been acquired and delivered to the Russian state by circumventing export regulations and sanctions," the court said in a statement.

Story continues

But, judge Jakob Hedenmo noted, "the main question in the case is whether the defendant's activities could lead to espionage."

"For criminal liability under the indictment, the activity must have had the purpose of obtaining sensitive information with high security value concerning Sweden and the United States in order to commit espionage," he said.

"The prosecutor has not been able to prove that the intention of the activity was to collect such information."

The court said the prosecution had failed to prove that Skvortsov had obtained sensitive information about Sweden's national security, "such as information about its defence forces or exports".

"The evidence cited in the case more likely suggests that Skvortsov had no other purpose than the acquisition of technology from the West -- to negotiate, buy and transport the requested products."

Much of the trial was held behind closed doors on national security grounds.

- Legitimate businessman -

Skvortsov's lawyer had argued during the trial that her client was unaware of who his contacts were working for.

She claimed he was a legitimate businessman who sought the proper Swedish authorisations for his exports.

The prosecutor meanwhile had argued those authorisations were designed to "provide a veil of legitimacy" and said Skvortsov used false names of business partners, omitted information about the products he exported and provided false information about their end users.

The court found that he had not conducted his business activities secretly -- one of the legal requirements for the charge of "unlawful intelligence activities" -- though at times they had been done "by fraudulent means".

Olin said the electronic devices were mainly from the United States.

He said US authorities had prosecuted people in New York in 2016 for providing Russia's "military complex" with electronic devices, and that US authorities believe Skvortsov took over that role from those individuals.

A US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) official testified behind closed doors during the Stockholm trial, alongside Swedish intelligence officials.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said in July the Scandinavian country was in "the most serious security situation since World War II", facing parallel threats from both "states and state-like actors".

On Tuesday, he cited Russia as one such threat, noting Moscow "dislikes" Sweden's bid to join NATO and the fact that Stockholm backs Kyiv in the war in Ukraine.

po/jll/rl
YouTrip, a Singapore-based fintech that offers multicurrency wallet for consumers and business accounts with corporate cards for SMEs, has its eyes on growth throughout Southeast Asia after landing a Series B led by Lightspeed. The round was $50 million, and brings YouTrips total raised to $100 million since it launched in 2018.

The new funding will be used to develop YouTrips product technology and hire more than 100 new positions for its regional team as it launches in new Southeast Asian markets, including Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. The company is a major payment institution licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and its services include payments, foreign exchange, remittances and cards.

Since its inception five years ago, YouTrip has processed close to $10 billion in annualized transaction volume and its e-commerce payment volume has grown 238% in annualized transaction volume since its Series A in 2021.

TechCrunch last covered YouTrip in November 2021, when it raised a $30 million Series A led by prominent family offices in Asia who wanted to be unnamed but were returning investors. Founder and CEO Caecilia Chu tells TechCrunch that YouTrips backing by family offices gave it an advantage, because those relationships tend to be very long-term. This time YouTrip made the decision to work with a venture-backed company.

At the time of our last conversation with Chu two years ago, YouTrip was recovering from the pandemic as travel resumed in Southeast Asia, especially Singapore. It was also preparing for the launch of YouBiz, its corporate card, as more SMBs adopted digital financial services. YouBiz allows them to send payments, receive money and invoice consumers from around the world, in multiple currencies.

The company says YouTrips consumer multicurrency spending in Singapore and Thailand has grown considerably over the last two years, and its user base has tripled over that time. They attribute this to post-pandemic travel recovery and the continued growth of e-commerce in the region.

Story continues

Meanwhile, its B2B product YouBiz has onboarded more than 3,000 enterprises since its launch last May and plans to double that number by 2024. Its primary target customers for YouBiz are businesses that have less than 100 employees. Many are in the tech industry, including IT providers and startups that tend to be early adopters of new digital products, but Chu says YouTrip has also seen traction from more traditional sectors like travel agencies and healthcare.

The most common use cases for YouBiz include business travel, and digital marketing spend, because Google, Facebook and subscription tools are generally billed in USD, and the card gives SMEs FX savings. Companies also use YouBizs remittance services to pay suppliers and remote workers. Chu says e-commerce is becoming increasingly important for YouBiz because of its YouBiz perks program, which works with partners to give customers cash-back deals and is meant to encourage more frequent and larger transactions.

Tailwinds giving YouTrip a growth advantage include the continuing digitization of SMEs and consumer habits, which was accelerated by the pandemic.

Group photo of YouTrip's Singaporean team

Group photo of YouTrip's Singaporean team. Image Credits: YouTrip

In terms of product development, YouTrip plans to increase its use of AI and other emerging technologies for personalized features like smart budgeting and customized financial insights. For YouBiz, the company will grow its portfolio of services for SMEs cross-border growth plans, including new features for its expense management capabilities and adding credit lines.

In addition to accelerating its international market expansion, Chu is excited by new regulations in Singapore that will raise e-wallet transaction caps by three or four times.

We feel is it is a great opportunity for us to build more for existing customers, so we are going to add more FX related services in theres, including overseas transfers, overseas receiving money and more when the wallet limit increased, she says.

One of YouTrip's and YouBizs differentiators from other multicurrency wallets and SME accounts/corporate cards is their focus on localization, she says. This gives YouTrip a larger market share.

For every market, we tailor our mobile apps and also the card design even, for each of our markets. By being so localized and focused, from the selection of partners and so forth, it really plays out nicely for us, Chu says.

The localization strategy was one we think gives us an advantage, particularly on consumer digitalization and consumer fintech developments, she added. What we are very excited about right now is the digitalization of SMEs as well. I think there is the need and opportunity brought to us by the pandemic. Companies are really looking to automate themselves and they need to be able to have a remote workforce, and everything needs to be digitalized and automated."

But she notes that 99% of SMEs still use traditional banks, instead of neobanks and other fintechs.

I think the opportunity there is even larger and the revolution has just started, she says. We are very excited to get in there with the infrastructure that we have already built. We are one of the very few SME fintechs that own our own licenses and a proprietary tech stack.

In an investor statement, Lightspeed partner Pinn Lawjindakul said, My personal experience of the pain point reinforced my conviction in what the YouTrip deal has built. Their multi-currency digital payments platform enables everyone to have a safer, smarter and superior experience with foreign currencies and digital payments.
Diplomats have been busy ironing out a joint position by the 27-country bloc on the Gaza conflict, including a potential call for a humanitarian pause to facilitate the flow of aid, in preparation for the summit.

But leaders stressed the need to maintain attention on the other war on Europes doorstep, warning that distraction from Ukraine would play into the hands of the Kremlin.

This should not take our attention away from Ukraine, this is exactly what Putin wants, European President Roberta Metsola warned as she arrived for the meeting.

"It's key for us to make very clear that we support Ukraine for as long as it takes," European Council President Charles Michel said.

Lithuania's Gitanas Nauseda and Estonia's Kaja Kallas, both staunch advocates of EU support to Ukraine, also said keeping the attention on support to Ukraine is critical.

Europe has no right for war fatigue," Nauseda said. My message today is to keep supporting Ukraine, despite the fact that we have another hot spot, he added, saying that it was important for the EU not to split its foreign policy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dialled into the start of the meeting by videolink, as has been the tradition since the start of Russia's aggression. During the evening, leaders are expected to discuss a 50-billion envelope in financial support to Ukraine, proposed by the Commission as part of a top-up to its long-term budget, as well as ways of seizing frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine's recovery.

EU unity on Ukraine falters

The EUs diplomatic front in support of Ukraine has recently shown signs of unravelling, with Hungarian President Viktor Orban seen cosying up to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a recent visit to China. On Thursday, Hungarys foreign minister Peter Szijjarto attended a security conference in Belarus, a close ally of Russia.

Responding to Orban and Putins encounter, Lithuania's Nauseda said it is "more than strange to see that we start to flirt with a regime which is committing very cruel atrocities on the territory of Ukraine."

Story continues

The newest of the blocs 27 heads of state Robert Fico - sworn in as Slovakia's Prime Minister just in time for the EU summit on Wednesday - announced hours ahead of the summit he would halt his countrys military aid to Ukraine, following up on promises made during his electoral campaign. Fico leads a coalition government that includes a pro-Russian far-right party.

EU leaders are gearing up to avoid a watering down of EU support to Ukraine amidst fears of Orban and Fico-led vetoes.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola told reporters after addressing leaders that she "had to believe" there would be continued unity among EU leaders, despite signs of fragmentation.

"I continue to hope that the unanimity that was found in the past can still be found," Metsola said, adding that she was in discussions with countries risking to take a "different path."

The latest draft conclusions of the summit seen by Euronews include no less than fourteen paragraphs on Russias invasion of Ukraine, which include a call for continued and accelerated military support to Ukraine.

Military support is seen as critical to prop up Ukraine's military forces, which have received unprecedented levels of support from European and Western governments since the start of the war, including ammunition, weapons, tanks and fighter planes.

But the EU appears on track to miss its pledge, made in late March, to deliver one million rounds of ammunition in 12 months, with just one-third of the target delivered in the past six months.

Leaders to discuss financial support and frozen assets

The 50 billion pot of financial support to Ukraine under discussion on Thursday needs the unanimous blessing of all 27 leaders to be released, but is currently being blocked by Hungary.

The funds would be part of a broader revision of the EU's long-term budget, amounting to around 100 billion in grants and loans.

Lithuania's Nauseda said 50 billion in financial support to Ukraine is insufficient and that the bloc needs to find a more permanent means of financing the war-torn country.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas said she would press on leaders to find a path forward to rubber stamp the funds, and said she was hopeful that Hungarian opposition was simple posturing.

He (Orban) has been quite critical of support to Ukraine, but he has been part of it. So I hope that Hungary continues to be part of it," Kallas said, adding she would also encourage leaders to seek an agreement on the seizure of Russian assets.

The EU is currently looking into the feasibility of using proceeds from immobilised Russian assets to help rebuild Ukraine and to compensate victims for the losses suffered at the hands of Russia. But the use of immobilised assets is a minefield for Western countries given legal and economic complications.
Trunk or Treat

United Lutheran Church, 3315 Hamilton Blvd., will host a Trunk or Treat on Sunday, Oct. 29, from 3 to 5 p.m. Free hot dogs and apple cider will be available.

Monthly Carmelite Meeting

The monthly Carmelite Board Meeting will be held Monday, Nov. 6, at the Carmelite Monastery, 2901 S. Cecelia Street with Mass at 7 a.m. followed by a large mailing and refreshments at 8 a.m. The business meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m., the rosary will start at 9 a.m., and prayers with the Sisters at 9:15 a.m. Honorary members are always welcome.

Fall Craft & Vendor Fundraiser

St. Luke Lutheran Church, 2039 S St. Aubin, will present a Craft & Vendor Fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 4. Vendors & Crafters are called - $30 table fee. Bake sale items will be available. Call Michelle at 712-898-9349 to reserve your table. Free admission. Proceeds go towards the Youth Gathering trip to New Orleans.

Craft Fair & Gift Boutique

United Lutheran Church, 3315 Hamilton Blvd., will host Craft Fair & Gift Boutique on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bake sale items will also be available.

Red Mass

Bishop Walker Nickless and the Sioux City Cathedral Parish will host a Red Mass Nov. 6 for workers in the legal profession. Bishop Nickless will celebrate the Mass at 5 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Epiphany.

Legal professionals and their families planning to attend are asked to RSVP to info@sccathedral.org. However, anyone who arrives without an RSVP is welcome to attend the Mass and the meal afterward.

The Man of the Shroud

Siouxland Catholic Radio will host an up-close experience of the most studied artifact of all time  The Shroud of Turin, what many believe to be the authentic burial cloth of Christ. The Man of the Shroud exhibit will include 42 beautifully designed panels. The exhibit will be on display at Siouxland Catholic Radio, located at 701 West Fifth St. (located in the historic St. Boniface Rectory and Social Hall) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 14-16. This exhibit will raise the questions, Could the Shroud be the most important archaeological artifact ever found? Does it provide clues to what happened during the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus?

On Nov. 16, Shroud expert Jim Bertrand, M.Ed. of the American Confraternity of the Holy Shroud, will give two special presentations, at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m., plus a rare viewing of a Shroud replica. The replicas of the Crown of Thorns, whips, nails, and Holy Sponge used in the Passion of Our Lord will also be on display from Spirit Catholic Radio, KVSS, from Omaha.

The exhibit is being held in conjunction with Siouxland Catholic Radios fall pledge drive. The exhibit and presentation are free and open to the public. A free-will offering will be taken on Nov. 16 for the American Confraternity of the Holy Shroud and to help offset Bertrands expenses.

For more information on this exhibit, visit siouxlandcatholicradio.com/shroud-of-Turin or contact Siouxland Catholic Radio at 712-224-5342.

Citywide confessions

In an effort to encourage the Catholic faithful to participate in the sacrament of reconciliation (confession), the four Catholic parishes in Sioux City are collaborating on citywide confessions throughout the next year.

Each parish will host one of four come and go confessions in the next 10 months to remind Catholics that the sacrament is available throughout the year  not just during the liturgical (church) seasons of Advent and Lent.

Confessions will be available at the following locations from 7 to 8 p.m. and the Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for confession participants to pray in adoration if they wish. Multiple priests will be present at each citywide confessions event.

Dec. 19 at the Cathedral of the Epiphany at 1000 Douglas St.

March 19 at Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ Church at 4241 Natalia Way

June 18 at Sacred Heart Parish at 5010 Military Rd.

Pastors of the four parishes include: The Rev. David Hemann of Holy Cross Parish, which includes Blessed Sacrament and St. Michael churches; The Rev. David Esquiliano of Cathedral Parish, which includes the Cathedral of the Epiphany, St. Boniface and St. Joseph churches; The Rev. Brad Pelzel of Mater Dei Parish, which includes Immaculate Conception and Nativity churches, and The Rev. Tim Friedrichsen of Sacred Heart Parish

Food pantry

St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 1200 Douglas St., will have its food pantry open from 10 a.m. to noon Mondays.
Jason Werner, 38, pleaded guilty in June in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He was sentenced Monday to 28 months in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Werner was involved in the sale of at least 1.5 kilograms of meth from December 2019 through May 2022. Werner and at least seven others obtained about 4 pounds of meth and a pound of marijuana from sources in California and Nevada and transported the drugs in a hidden vehicle compartment to Cherokee to sell locally.
Kelly Malloy, 55, pleaded guilty in June in U.S. District Court in Sioux City to possession with intent to distribute and aiding and abetting another in the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Malloy was stopped by Le Mars, Iowa, police on Oct. 26, 2022, and officers found more than 76 grams of meth partially concealed under the seat. Malloy has a previous federal conviction for selling meth and other convictions for eluding, drug possession and assault.
SIOUX CITY  Almost right up to the moment she'd been longing for for years, Sioux City resident Violet Nformi Ehikioya was filling out paperwork. She was making sure every last bit of her information was correct before she took the next step in a journey which began in Cameroon a decade ago.

Ehikioya was one of 30 area residents who became U.S. citizens during a naturalization ceremony at the Mary J. Treglia Community House in Sioux City Thursday.

"It's one of the most exciting moments in my life, become a U.S. citizen," she said. "It's something that I've been longing for and I'm happy that it happened today."

Sioux City Naturalization Ceremony - Violet Nformi Ehikioya Violet Nformi Ehikioya, a Sioux City resident, was one of 30 people who were naturalized during a citizenship oath ceremony at the Mary J. Tre

The 30 residents who became naturalized on Thursday hailed from Cameroon, Cuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Guatemala, Haiti, Laos, Mexico, Myanmar and Vietnam.

When welcoming them, and the 70 other attendees who showed up to the gymnasium of the Community House, Mary J. Treglia Executive Director Barb Newhouse shared what they should be most fluent in.

"Your smile is your first language," Newhouse said at the beginning of the ceremony which also included a performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner," an "oath of allegiance" and a video message from President Joe Biden.

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): In fiscal year 2022, 967,500 people became American citizens in ceremonies across the country and around the world.

"This is a 20% increase from last year and the highest number of naturalizations seen since FY 2008," the USCIS said.

Iowa saw 4,097 naturalizations in fiscal year 2022 with the greatest number from one country coming from Mexico (553 total). Though the Mary J. Treglia Community House is no stranger to holding such events, Newhouse said the Thursday gathering was the first of the year for the organization.

Sioux CIty Naturalization Ceremony - Star-Spangled Banner Attendees of a citizenship oath ceremony at the Mary J. Treglia Community House in Sioux City stand for a performance of "The Star-Spangled Ba

Sioux City Police Officer Eddie Thiphasouk gave the keynote speech for the citizenship ceremony and offered his own personal story of immigrating from Laos to a refugee camp in Thailand to, eventually, Sioux City in the early 2000s.

"I know how difficult the process can be," Thiphasouk told the crowd. He then added one of the things he's proudest to say to people now is "I am a U.S. citizen."

The oath itself, which Thiphasouk had to say years ago, begins, "I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen."

Sioux City Naturalization Ceremony - Administration of Oath Siouxland residents participate in an administration of oath during a citizenship ceremony at the Mary J. Treglia Community House in Sioux Cit

Newhouse, while reading a congratulatory letter from Iowa Republican U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst, acknowledged stories such as Thiphasouk's and those of the new citizens are crucial threads of the national tapestry.

"The collective journeys of countless Americans make up what is truly the American spirit," Ernst's letter said.

Staffers for U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Hull, and Republican U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley were in attendance as well and let the 30 people being recognized know that they could come to the legislators' offices with any federally related issues.

"Your citizenship guarantees you constitutional rights and and freedoms, protect and cherish them," Feenstra staffer Ann Hughes reminded them.

Sioux City Naturalization Ceremony - Luis Javier Espinoza Luis Javier Espinoza, right, is recognized as a U.S. citizen by Chief United States District Magistrate Kelly K.E. Mahoney, center, during a c

Ehikioya, who came to Sioux City from California, had a similar sentiment. The UnityPoint Health - St. Luke's nurse said what she appreciates most about America is the diversity of experiences of citizens.

"People have different cultures and are different colors and it's something that is really welcoming," Ehikioya said. As to what she's most looking forward to now that she's a U.S. citizen, Ehikioya said she hopes to further her career in ways she wouldn't have been able to before her naturalization ceremony.

When reflecting on the event after it had concluded, Newhouse again talked about smiles and the sorts of plans people such as Ehikioya have.

"It just warms my heart to see us welcome new people as U.S. citizens and to allow them to become successful in America."

Sioux City Naturalization Ceremony - Entering Soon-to-be U.S. Citizens come streaming into the gymnasium of the Mary J. Treglia Community House during a citizenship oath ceremony in Sioux 
SIOUX CITY  Traffic will shift to head to head Thursday on South Lakeport Road over U.S. Highway 20 for bridge repairs.

Workers will be replacing bridge beams on the overpass, and construction is expected to last until Nov. 22, depending on weather. The pedestrian walkway on the bridge will be closed during construction.

Southbound lanes on the bridge were closed on Aug. 29 after a truck traveling in a northbound lane of U.S. 20/75 struck the underside of bridge, damaging two beams.

One of the southbound lanes was later reopened.
By Pyo Kyung-min

Kim Chae-won, a member of K-pop girl group Le Sserafim, is set to resume activities from Nov. 1, after a brief hiatus due to health concerns.

Le Sserafim's agency, Source Music, confirmed Wednesday that Kim received medical clearance for her to return to schedule. This pause in activities came after Kim, along with fellow Le Sserafim members Huh Yun-jin and Kazuha, was diagnosed with influenza A on Oct. 6.

On Oct. 16, the agency announced the temporary suspension of Kim's activities.

"After seeking additional medical attention on Oct. 13 due to persistent dizziness following her influenza A treatment, medical experts advised that she needed time for rest and recovery," it stated.

The group had also canceled the scheduled "2023 LESSERAFIM TOUR 'FLAME RISES' IN BANGKOK" performance in Thailand to ensure the well-being of infected members.

Comprising members Kim, Huh, Hong Eun-chae, Sakura and Kazuha, Le Sserafim debuted in 2022 originally as a six-member group. However, the group became a quintet after one of the former members faced allegations of school violence.

Despite the initial turbulence, the group steadily gained popularity and achieved chart-topping success with "Antifragile" (2022) and "Unforgiven" (2023).
SIOUX CITY -- The United Way of Siouxland on Thursday announced changes to its goals as it transitions to a new funding model.

The charitable organization has undertaken an in-depth analysis, working with representatives of law enforcement, healthcare organizations, education and workforce development over the past two years to set new "Community Impact" goals, and will use an "open funding process" beginning next year, United Way said in a press release.

"In the spring of 2022, many of you were here as we announced our new approach to funding programs, moving from a funded partner grant program to an open funding model," Heather Hennings, United Way of Siouxland president, said in prepared talking points. "The move provides critical flexibility to respond to the changing needs of Siouxland and our donors. The open funding model will allow any Siouxland nonprofit who can help solve these key issues to apply for United Way support."

Resources will be primarily targeted toward community education and healthy behaviors.

In its press release, United Way outlined five main goals:

To improve access to and participation in mental health care, addiction-treatment resources and prevention programming;

To help adult learners become more employable and independent in the community, through literacy programs and career development and job training, thus increasing household incomes;

Encouraging individuals to engage in behavior that improves their health and safety, including habits that reduce obesity, and increasing access to violence and trauma treatment and support services;

Increasing access to quality childcare and learning opportunities, and assessing the readiness of children to begin kindergarten;

And to ensure that students demonstrate grade-appropriate school readiness academically, socially and emotionally. Of particular importance are helping students maintain or improve their reading and math skills, decreasing the barriers to after-school activities and improving school attendance rates.

In her talking points, Hennings said that, although the unemployment rate is exceedingly low, 15 percent of people in Woodbury County and 11 percent of people in Dakota County live in poverty, defined as an income of less than $30,000 per year for a family of four. Domestic assaults in Woodbury County have increased 38 percent since 2020. Adult obesity rates vary by county: in Dakota County, an estimated 40 percent are obese, while approximately 37 percent in Union County are obese. Rates of obesity in the area have increased between 2 and 5 percent since 2019. Only 36 percent of kindergarteners in Sioux City are meeting learning benchmarks. In Woodbury County and Northeast Nebraska, there were 844 abused or neglected children in 2021, she said.

The United Way's new process allows for a transition period for both current and and new programs to apply for funding, according to the press release; grants will be based on a three-year cycle, with annual reporting and evaluation requirements.

Organizations will be required to submit a letter of intent to United way by February of next year. These letters will be reviewed, and organizations that make the cut will be invited to complete a full application by June. Awards will be determined in the fall, and the new funding starts in July 2025.
ROME  A famous priest-artist who was thrown out of the Jesuits after being accused of sexual, spiritual and psychological abuse of women was accepted into a diocese in his native Slovenia, the latest twist in a case that implicated the pope and laid bare the limits of the Vatican's in-house legal system.

The Jesuits said Thursday they provided the diocese of Koper, Slovenia, an "extensive letter" outlining the allegations against the Rev. Marko Ivan Rupnik and notice that he was convicted and excommunicated for committing one of the most serious crimes in the Catholic Church.

But the Koper diocese said it accepted Rupnik as a diocesan priest in August because it hadn't received any documentation showing that he had "been found guilty of the alleged abuses before either an ecclesiastical tribunal or civil court."

A statement from the diocese to The Associated Press cited the Universal Declaration on Human Rights' provision on the presumption of innocence and right to a defense for anyone accused of a crime.

Rupnik, whose mosaics decorate churches and basilicas around the globe, was declared excommunicated by the Vatican in May 2020 for a confession-related crime. The Jesuit order kicked him out this summer after several adult women accused him of sexual, psychological and spiritual abuses dating back 30 years.

The scandal has been a headache for the Vatican and Pope Francis himself due to suspicions Rupnik received favorable treatment from the Holy See since Francis is a Jesuit and other Jesuits head the sex crimes office that investigated the priest and declined to prosecute him for abuse.

After conducting their own investigation, the Jesuit order announced in June that it found the women's claims to be "very highly credible." But they said the Vatican's canonical norms in force at the time of the alleged abuse precluded harsher punishment for old cases involving the abuse of adults.

On Thursday, Rupnik's former Jesuit superior, the Rev. Johan Verschueren, confirmed he communicated with the bishop of Koper, Monsignor Jurij Bizjak, after learning earlier this year that Bizjak was prepared to take in Rupnik.

"I immediately wrote an exhaustive letter to the bishop about the situation and the many complaints or cases we were dealing with, and I asked him whether he would maintain his offer after having been informed by it," Verschueren said in an email to The Associated Press.

The Jesuits learned later from the Vatican that the transfer had gone through, he said.

Verschueren said his letter included a reference to the lone canonical sanction Runik incurred after a guilty verdict: a 2020 excommunication for having used the confessional to absolve a woman with whom he had engaged in sexual activity. The Vatican lifted the excommunication decree two weeks later.

The Catholic Church has long responded to women who report priests for abusing their authority by blaming the women for seducing the churchmen, portraying them as mentally unstable or minimizing the event as a mere "mistake" or "boundary violation" by an otherwise holy priest.

The Jesuits said they kicked out Rupnik not because of the abuse claims, but because of his "stubborn refusal to observe the vow of obedience." The Jesuits exhorted Rupnik to atone for his misconduct and enter into a process of reparation with his victims, but he refused.

While Francis' role in the Rupnik scandal came into question, the pontiff insisted in a Jan. 24 interview with the AP that he only intervened procedurally in the case, though he also said he opposed waiving the statute of limitations for old abuse cases involving adults.

More recently, Francis was seen as being part of an apparent attempt by Rupnik's supporters to rehabilitate the priest's image. In a widely publicized audience, Francis received a close collaborator and strong defender of Rupnik who denounced what she called a media "lynching."

Last month, the Vicariate of Rome, which Francis heads, cast doubt on the Vatican's lone punishment of Rupnik: the 2020 declaration of excommunication. Women who alleged they were abused by Rupnik said the statement revictimized them.

Usually, when a priest moves from one diocese to another, or joins a diocese after leaving a religious order, the process takes years. According to canon law, it also requires "appropriate testimonials  concerning the cleric's life, morals, and studies" from the priest's previous superior.
For as long as Jake Price has been a teacher, Wolfram Alpha  a website that solves algebraic problems online  has threatened to make algebra homework obsolete.

Teachers learned to work around and with it, said Price, assistant professor of mathematics and computer science at the University of Puget Sound. But now, they have a new homework helper to contend with: generative artificial intelligence tools, such as ChatGPT.

Price doesnt see ChatGPT as a threat, and hes not alone. Some math professors believe artificial intelligence, when used correctly, could help strengthen math instruction. And its arriving at a time when math scores are at a historic low and educators are questioning if math should be taught differently.

Artificial intelligence can serve as a tutor, giving a student who is struggling with a problem immediate feedback. It can help a teacher plan math lessons, or write math problems geared toward different levels of instruction. It can show new computer programmers sample code, allowing them to skip over the chore of learning to write basic code.

As schools across the country debate banning AI chatbots, some math and computer science teachers are embracing them as just another tool.

Math has always been evolving as technology evolves, said Price. A hundred years ago, people were using slide rules and doing all of their multiplication with logarithmic tables. Then, along came calculators.

Price makes sure students have the skills to solve problems on their own. Then, he discusses the limitations of the technologies they might be tempted to use when they get home.

Computers are really good at doing tedious things, Price said. We dont have to do all the tedious stuff. We can let the computer do it. And then we can interpret the answer and think about what it tells us about the decisions we need to make.

He wants his students to enjoy looking for patterns, seeing how different methods can give different or the same answers and how to interpret those answers to help make decisions.

Min Sun, a University of Washington education professor, thinks students should use chatbots like personal tutors. If students dont understand a mathematical operation, they can ask ChatGPT to explain it and give examples.

She wants teachers to use ChatGPT as their own assistant: to plan math lessons, give students feedback and communicate with parents.

Teachers can also ask ChatGPT to recommend different levels of math problems for students with different mastery of the concept, she said. This is particularly helpful for teachers who are new to the profession or have students with diverse needs, Sun said.

It gives you some initial ideas and possible problem areas for students so I can get myself more prepared before walking into the classroom, Sun said.

A year ago, if you asked Daniel Zingaro how he assesses his introductory computer science students, he would say: We ask them to write code.

But if you ask him today, the answer would be more complex, said Zingaro, an associate professor at the University of Toronto.

Zingaro and Leo Porter, a computer science professor at the University of California, San Diego, authored the book Learn AI-Assisted Python Programming with GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT. They believe artificial intelligence will allow introductory computer science classes to tackle big-picture concepts.

A lot of beginner students get stuck writing simple code, Porter and Zingaro said. They never move on to more advanced questions  and many still cant write simple code after they complete the course.

Its not just uninteresting, it is frustrating, Porter said. They are trying to build something and they forgot a semicolon and theyll lose three hours trying to find that missing semicolon or some other bit of syntax that prevents a code from running properly.

Chatbots don't make those mistakes, and allow computer science professors to spend more time teaching higher-level skills.

The professors now ask their students to take a big problem and break it down to smaller questions or tasks the code needs to do. They also ask students to test and debug code once it's written.

If we think bigger picture about what we want our students to do, we want them to write software that is meaningful to them, Porter said.

Magdalena Balazinska, director of the University of Washingtons Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering, embraces the progress artificial intelligence has made.

With the support of AI, human software engineers get to focus on the most interesting part of computer science: answering big software design questions, Balazinska said. AI allows humans to focus on the creative work.

Not all professors in the field think artificial intelligence should be integrated into the curriculum. But Zingaro and Porter argue that reading a lot of code generated by artificial intelligence doesnt feel like cheating. Rather, its how a student is going to learn.

I think a lot of programmers read a lot of code, just like how I believe the best writers read a lot of writing, Zingaro said. I think that is a very powerful way to learn.

Photos: Amid ChatGPT outcry, some teachers are inviting AI to class
Conservative talk radio host Larry Elder announced Thursday that he was ending his 2024 Republican campaign for president and endorsing former President Donald Trump.

Elder, who sought to replace California Gov. Gavin Newsom in a failed 2021 recall effort, said in a statement that he had made the difficult decision to end his bid and throw his support behind Trump. Trump's leadership, he said, was instrumental in advancing conservative America-first principles and policies that have benefited our great nation.

He said now was the time to unite behind Trump to beat President Joe Biden. He also said he hoped his campaign had shined a light on the issues important to him, including fatherlessness, fighting crime and opposition to the idea that the U.S. is a racist country.

Elder is the fourth major candidate to suspend or end his 2024 GOP bid, following Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, former Texas congressman Will Hurd and businessman Perry Johnson. Johnson also backed Trump on his way out of the race, while Hurd endorsed former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley.

He announced his long-shot campaign in April, saying that America is in decline, but this decline in not inevitable.

We can enter a new American Golden Age, but we must choose a leader who can bring us there. Thats why Im running for President, he wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Elder found little visibility in a primary race dominated by Trump and including other high-profile figures such as former Vice President Mike Pence, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, U.S. Sen. Tim Scott, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley and biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

He wasn't among the GOP candidates on stage for either presidential debate after failing to meet the polling and donor qualifications required by the Republican National Committee to participate. He said he filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission after missing the first one, alleging the rules about debate participation werent equally applied to all candidates.

Elder made his first bid for public office in 2021, when he received the most votes out of 46 people who were hoping to replace Newsom in a recall effort. But a majority of voters ended up voting against removing Newsom, making the vote count in the replacement contest irrelevant.

Some Democrats say Elder's role as a foil to Newsom helped the Democratic governor inspire voters in liberal California to turn out and reject the recall. Newsom attacked Elder for his support of Trump and his conservative positions, such as opposing abortion rights and restrictions imposed to slow the spread of COVID-19, such as mask mandates.

But Elder said the experience of running for office  and the millions of votes he received  showed he had a message that resonated with voters. A lawyer who grew up in Los Angeles' rough South Central neighborhood, Elder attended an Ivy League college and then law school. He has a following among conservatives through his radio programs and has been a frequent guest on Fox News and other right-wing media.

Elder, who is Black, has criticized Democrats' woke agenda, Black Lives Matter and the notion of systemic racism, positions that have put him at odds with many other Black people.

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Israeli troops and tanks launched an hourslong ground raid into northern Gaza overnight. The military said troops struck several militant targets in Thursday's raid in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion. The raid came after the U.N. warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the besieged territory. Hospitals in Gaza are struggling to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources. The war, sparked by Hamas' bloody incursion into southern Israel on Oct. 7, is already the deadliest of five fought between Israel and Hamas in the last 15 years.
Gov. Jim Pillen spoke of first impressions Wednesday as he toured Lincoln's Total Manufacturing Co.

That first impression came immediately  long before he walked the floor of the enormous metal shop to find men and women representing 17 countries using an automated system to create everything from large trailers, grain bins and chillers  when he entered the South Sixth Street lobby.

It was there that video awaited him. Three-year-old Naomi Stinton, the daughter of CEO Diane Temme-Stinton, welcomed the governor with a heartwarming presentation.

"God bless you. You're doing a good job, Gov. Pillen," Naomi said as the governor smiled widely.

"She's going to make me cry," he said.

It was that kind of day  a day to show their best and take a bow  at TMCO, which hosted a gubernatorial visit by virtue of being named the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Manufacturer of the Year.

The visit came after Pillen declared October manufacturing month, a time to highlight those companies that make products vital to the lives of Nebraskans, while also encouraging students to consider careers in manufacturing.

Earlier in the day, Pillen was at Endicott Clay Products, a company that made it into the final four of the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition, which was coordinated by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce.

Endicott Clay, a family-owned business, makes clay building materials, including bricks, pavers and tiles.

TMCO, founded in 1974 by Roland Temme, has seen its share of change as it has navigated a landscape that features more open jobs than qualified people to fill them.

"Everybody is using innovation and automation," Pillen said. "Changing how they can do things with the workforce is a big issue."

TMCO, which has about 15 jobs available currently according to President Anwar Rida, competes regularly with Lincoln's best manufacturing plants for the top talent.

It taps the Lincoln Manufacturing Council for students who go through the manufacturing program and has a strong relationship with Southeast Community College as well as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska Wesleyan University.

"We try hard to leverage all of those relationships," said CFO Jamie Warren, who has been with TMCO for about 16 months. "If you've got a good attitude, are willing to work and are willing to learn, we'll get you trained up here."

In addition, it is tapping Lincoln's migrant community to fill out a workforce that's more than 230 strong.

"So it's really interesting because I think you can really study the history of immigration in Lincoln by studying our workforce," Temme-Stinton said. "People come in waves in terms of immigration and refugees, so most recently we have hired Afghanis, Ukrainians, Syrians and Iraqis."

Those migrants and refugees have meshed with others from places like Vietnam and Sudan, to name just a few, to form a cohesive unit, she said.

Pillen said legal immigration is important in filling jobs.

"We've had immigrants coming into the state of Nebraska since our beginning," Pillen said. "So I'm a big-time believer that we need to have legal immigration."
DES MOINES  Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds defended a state law that requires schools to pull books with descriptions of sex acts from library shelves during a press conference on Wednesday, as the state's Department of Education said it may provide more guidance to schools navigating the restrictions.

The law, passed by Iowas legislative Republicans and signed into law by Reynolds this year, requires that school libraries only include "age-appropriate" material and specifically bans any book that describes or depicts any of a list of defined sex acts.

The law also requires schools to notify parents if a student requests to be called by a different name or set of gender pronouns and bans teaching about gender identity or sexual orientation in kindergarten through sixth grade. Schools must also provide a policy to request removal of any classroom materials, and request parental permission before a student takes a survey or exam to assess the students mental, emotional or physical health that is not required by state or federal law.

Reynolds read the list of sex acts written in law that would warrant a removal from libraries and said the standard should be clear on what is and is not allowed in schools.

Im not sure why any kindergartner, or anybody in school, should be subjected to that, and what value that brings to them, Reynolds said. So thats the definition. It is very, very clear.

According to a database maintained by the Des Moines Register, districts in Iowa have removed at least 450 books from their shelves in response to the law.

Many districts have removed commonly challenged books like "Gender Queer" and "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian." Books that are often assigned high school reading, like George Orwells "1984" and Aldous Huxleys "Brave New World," have also been pulled by several districts.

Education and library advocates have argued an overly broad interpretation of the law by school districts trying to avoid legal repercussions will lead to schools pulling materials off library shelves that should not be removed under the law, depriving students of the opportunity to read books they otherwise would.

Speaking about the removal of commonly assigned books, Reynolds suggested school districts are implementing broad restrictions because they dont like the law, and she said the books that fall under the definition of a sex act in law should be clear.

"I think it's pretty clear, and if they can't distinguish that, then I don't know, maybe we ought to look at what they should be dealing with," Reynolds said. "It's just a distraction. And they don't like it, so they're blowing it out of proportion."

Reynolds tied the effort to remove books with sexual content from schools to the need to boost scores in reading, math and other areas that have lagged because of learning loss from the pandemic.

"Our kids and our teachers deserve better," she said. "They deserve the tools to help these kids succeed. Not a damn distraction on a nasty pornographic book that should never, ever be in a classroom."

State Board of Education may provide guidance

The Iowa State Board of Education has until Dec. 28 to begin promulgating rules to implement several provisions of the law. However, it remains unclear whether state officials will issue new rules or guidance related to removing school library materials and instruction related to sexual orientation or gender identity thats now barred in kindergarten through sixth grade

Heather Doe, communications director for the Iowa Department of Education, did not specify which provisions of the law for which the State Board of Education will promulgate rules.

A specific date for the board to consider proposed rules has not been set yet, Doe said. The standard rulemaking process takes at least 108 days, but no more than 180 days, she added.

Penalties for violating the law take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

State officials will give first-time offenders a written warning. Subsequent violations could lead to superintendents and employees being called before the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners for a hearing and possible disciplinary action, according to the law.

Iowa Department of Education officials this summer left vague their plans to give school administrators more guidance on what constitutes age-appropriate material and which books would or would not fall under that definition, including materials referencing any type of gender identity and sexual orientation.

The boards president during a meeting this summer noted school officials and administrators across the state have clamored for guidance from the department in implementing the law, in part, to avoid the possibility of litigation over book removals.

Melissa Peterson, legislative and policy director with the Iowa State Education Association, the states largest teachers union, said by her reading of the law, it does not compel rulemaking by the state board related to school library materials, but does for other, less controversial provisions.

Left to seek their own legal guidance, some schools initially removed hundreds of books, while others have waited, hoping for direction from the state before the law's penalties go into effect Jan 1.

Peterson pointed to the Urbandale Community School District, which paused its initial removal of nearly 400 books from shelves that may violate the law, narrowing down the list to 64 titles after more careful review.

The Iowa City Community School District this month released a list of about 70 book titles removed from schools to comply with the new law. The list includes Toni Morrisons The Bluest Eye, which tells the story of a young Black girl after the Great Depression, and Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale, a futuristic dystopian novel set in a patriarchal, white supremacist, totalitarian state, which has overthrown the U.S. It also includes "A Thousand Acres, a novel written by Jane Smiley, a graduate of the Iowa Writers Workshop at the University of Iowa.

Peterson said ISEA continues to be disappointed that the Iowa Department of Education has not issued better guidance to schools on how to navigate the thornier provisions of the law. Peterson said shes cautiously optimistic the State Board of Education will compel the department to issue guidance at its next meeting Nov. 15.

We have lot of important work ahead of us in public education, and when you take into consideration staff shortages and the needs of students, unnecessary distractions are not appreciated at this point, Peterson said. And we think this issue in particular has been a significant distraction that could easily be removed with clear guidance from the Department of Education. We shouldnt be making it harder for folks to do their job and be in compliance.

Inside the book-ban machine: The rise of 'parental rights' groups and their efforts to ban books Inside the book-ban machine: The rise of 'parental rights' groups and their efforts to ban books Conservative education groups have spread rapidly, frequently in areas with politically mixed populations New conservative book rating sites are fueling book bans Regional groups are also organizing to challenge books: About 1 in 6 complaints nationwide in 2022 were from St. Tammany Parish New state laws support attempts to restrict library materials
JOHNSTON  It is critical that America remain a moral compass to help Israel, both now and beyond next years presidential election, Israels Consul General to the Midwest said Thursday in Iowa.

Yinam Cohen discussed the Israel-Hamas war, and the rise in antisemitism in the U.S. during this weekends episode of Iowa Press on Iowa PBS.

Cohen praised U.S. President Joe Biden for his leadership on the world stage since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. He also expressed his appreciation for the widespread, bipartisan support for Israel from the U.S. Congress.

President Biden really showed a lot of leadership since the beginning of the violence in our region, since the heinous attack that cost the lives of more than 1,400 Israelis, Cohen said.

He has really been a moral compass, not just only here in America, but also to the world, and his leadership and setting the goal for really eliminating Hamas, and this is very important.

Republican candidates for president, who have spent a lot of time campaigning in Iowa before the states first-in-the-nation Republican caucuses, have been discussing the Israel-Hamas war on the campaign trail.

Cohen said regardless of who wins next years presidential election, the U.S. must lead the world with its values.

We want the world to be led by the values of freedom and democracy of America, not by other values that are promoted by other countries maybe in other sides of the world, Cohen said.

We need the world to be led by America. We need the world to be led by the values of freedom and democracy. And this is why I think it is very important that America continues to play a major role in setting the right moral compass for the world.

While discussing the conflict, Cohen said he agrees with Bidens remarks earlier this week, in which he said it is important for Israels military to focus its effort on eradicating Hamas, and not at the expense of the Palestinian people who live in Gaza.

Cohen said Israel is coordinating daily with the U.S. administration on every humanitarian issue, including efforts to help American citizens currently in Gaza  estimates put that number at roughly 500 to 600  who are trying to leave.

I think the President (Biden) is very correct because  we have declared war on Hamas. Hamas is a terrorist organization that is inspired, financed and trained by Iran. Their only aim is not to advance Palestinian well-being or the two-state solution or whatever that would be. Their declared goal is to destroy the one and only true state, the state of Israel, and to kill as many Jews as they can, Cohen said.

So, we have declared war, and our goal is to eradicate the leadership and the terrorist capabilities of Hamas in the Gaza strip.

At the same time, he said, Israel is well aware of the civilian population in Gaza and that the nation will really try to distinguish between Hamas and civilians.

If Israels military is successful in eliminating Hamas, a coalition of nations must help broker a long-term solution for peace in a region that has not had peace for decades, Cohen said.

This is the most important question. When we think of the military goal, fully eradicating Hamass capability of perpetrating terror attacks, we should also think of the day after the war. How should the Gaza strip be ruled and managed? Cohen said.

I think that the most important thing on the day after is to make sure that both the international community but also our Arab friends and allies in the region  to make sure that the day after Hamas, they are able, the Palestinian population there, to set a road map and future for the civilian population there for a better life, better infrastructure, better education, eradicating the radicalism that is so deeply rooted right now among the population.

This is our goal.  It is a plan, a road map for the next years. And we need the whole international community and the Arab allies to do that.

Cohen also expressed concern for a spike in antisemitic incidents around the world, including in the U.S., since the Oct. 7 attacks.

According to preliminary data from the Anti-Defamation League, reported antisemitic incidents of harassment, vandalism and assault from Oct. 7 to Oct. 23 increased by 388 percent over the same period last year.

Iowa Press airs on Iowa PBS at 7 p.m. Friday and noon Sunday and at 8:30 a.m. Saturday on Iowa PBS World. The program also can be viewed at iowapbs.org/iowapress.
At least 18 people were killed in shootings at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night, sparking a massive search for the suspect. Late Thursday, heavily armed law enforcement backed by a police helicopter had surrounded a home and told anyone who might be inside to surrender, but authorities eventually left without indicating anyone had been taken into custody.

We dont know for sure. Follow for live updates.

WHAT TO KNOW

 Authorities are searching towns, forests and waterways for the suspect.

 Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened.

 Social media posts spread an incorrect photo of the Maine suspect.

 Maine passed a law to try to prevent mass shootings, but some say more is needed.

 The shooting is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year.

LEWISTON SCHOOLS WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, SUPERINTENDENT SAYS

Lewiston Public Schools will be closed again on Friday, according to a post by Superintendent Jake Langlais on the districts website.

We remain in a shelter in place situation, the post said. We will not open buildings or run bus transportation.

The superintendent said students and staff have been directly impacted by the shooting and the events since 7 p.m. Wednesday are unimaginable.

School officials in Maines largest city of Portland will decide by 5 a.m. Friday whether to open based on information received from police, according to a post on the districts website.

Bates College in Lewiston also canceled classes Friday and postponed the inauguration of the schools first Black president, Garry Jenkins, the school's website said.

OFFICERS HAVE LEFT HOME THEY SURROUNDED, SAYING THEY WERE EXECUTING A SEARCH WARRANT

Most of the law enforcement officers and a helicopter that surrounded a home connected to a relative of the suspect in the Maine shootings have left after executing a search warrant and calling for anyone inside to surrender.

Officers had yelled through a megaphone at the home near Bowdoin, Maine, for suspect Robert Card or anyone inside to Come out with your hands up.

Maine State Police said afterward that the announcements were standard.

It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search, the statement posted on Facebook said.

Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the searches were taking place in Bowdoin, said he knows the Card family and that Robert knows the terrain well.

This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here. He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket, he said.

OFFICERS AT HOME WHERE SUSPECTS RELATIVES LIVE CALL FOR SURRENDER

Heavily armed officers surrounding a home where relatives of the suspect in the Maine shootings live near Bowdoin, Maine, are calling for a person or people inside to surrender.

Law enforcement officers asked TV crews to turn off their lights nearby before officers could be heard yelling into a megaphone shortly after 7 p.m.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, officers shouted outside the home owned by suspect Robert Cards relatives.

Officers were speaking through the megaphone, waiting, then speaking again. At one point, officers said they could guarantee safety if the person or people walked outside the house.

FBI, OTHER OFFICERS GATHER AT HOME WHERE SUSPECT'S RELATIVES LIVE

Several FBI agents and other heavily armed officers gathered off a road where several relatives of shootings suspect Robert Card live near Bowdoin, Maine.

A military-style vehicle and a white van arrived and moments later someone repeatedly yelled, FBI! Open the door!

Loud booms could be heard a few seconds apart as helicopters circled overhead. Nearby, several armed police officers stood on alert in the back of a pickup truck.

HOSPITAL TREATS PATIENTS INJURED IN SHOOTINGS

Eight people injured in the Maine shootings remained hospitalized at Central Maine Medial Center on Thursday afternoon, officials said.

Hospital officials said five of the patients are in stable condition and three are critical. The hospital has not released the ages of the patients. All of the patients had been identified by late afternoon, said Dr. John Alexander, the chief medical officer.

Alexander said the hospital is not used to dealing with this level of emergency care, but the staff was trained for it.

Its unprecedented in terms of the severity of the injuries and the tragedy to the community, he said.

COAST GUARD SEARCHES BY BOAT AS SHOOTING SUSPECT REMAINS AT LARGE

Authorities have been searching both on land and water for the suspect in Wednesday's shootings in Maine that killed 18 people.

The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River. But after hours of searching, authorities found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station.

The suspect's car had been discovered by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and his 15-foot (4.5-meter) boat remains unaccounted for, Smith said.

But he added that officials didnt have any specific intelligence that the suspect, Robert Card, might have escaped aboard his boat. Were just doing our due diligence, he said.

LEWISTON WOMAN SHELTERS AT HOME WHILE MOURNING AND PRAYING

Standing outsider her Lewiston home Thursday while police searched for the suspect in the Maine shootings, April Stevens cried as she described being frustrated and worried.

Stevens, who lives close to the scene of the shootings, said she knew someone who was killed at the bar and another person who was injured and needed surgery.

Were praying for everyone. Were just hoping everyone gets through this, that the people who are injured recover safely, she said. Our hearts go out to all of those who didnt make it.

Stevens said she was working from home Thursday while authorities continued their search for the suspect. She said she locked her doors and turned on her home's outside lights Wednesday night in case the shooter was nearby.

We're just here to support our friends if they need us. If they need a hug  they need anything  we're here, she said.

CANADA WARNS BORDER AGENTS TO BE ON LOOKOUT FOR MAINE SUSPECT

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA  The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for the man suspected of fatally shooting at least 18 people in southern Maine.

The shootings were reported Wednesday night in Lewiston, about 260 kilometers (161 miles) southwest of the New Brunswick border. As a massive search continued Thursday for suspect Robert Card, residents of southern Maine were told to lock their doors and remain inside.

The CBSA says it is working with Canadian and U.S. law enforcement partners, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to protect Canadas borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry.

The Canadian border agency said that all entry points along the Canada-U.S. border remain open.

MAINE LAWMAKERS VOW TO ENSURE SIMILAR TRAGEDY WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN

State lawmakers in Maine, which has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates, called the mass shootings that killed at least 18 people a tragedy and urged unity in the face of crisis.

State Rep. Mana Abdi of Lewiston, the first Somali American elected to the Maine Legislature, and fellow Democratic Reps. Margaret Craven and Michel Lajoie said in a joint statement that they were committed to ensuring that a tragedy like this will never happen to another community ever again.

We are deeply thankful to all of the first responders, law enforcement and hospital staff who responded swiftly, and will continue to keep all of our neighbors, families and friends who have been affected in our hearts, they said.

Republican state Rep. Laurel Libby, who represents nearby Auburn, said the community was in shock and the loss the state is facing is just unfathomable. Libby also said this was not the time to talk about the states gun culture.

Were already seeing our community really rallying together in support. I know that same spirit will carry us on through, but its really not a time for guessing at motives at this point and pointing fingers, Libby said.

BIDEN URGES RESIDENTS IN SEARCH AREA TO HEED LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNINGS

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Thursday urged residents of the area where police are searching for the suspect in the Maine mass shootings to heed the warning of local law enforcement.

For countless Americans who have survived gun violence and been traumatized by it, a shooting such as this reopens deep and painful wounds, he said in a statement, adding that he and first lady Jill Biden were praying for the families of the victims. Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.

Biden once again called for the passage of a ban of so-called assault weapons. The president also ordered flags at half-staff to honor the victims of the shooting.

OFFICIAL: POLICE TOOK SUSPECT FOR EVALUATION AFTER ERRATIC BEHAVIOR IN JULY

WASHINGTON  A U.S. Army reservist suspected of killing at least 18 people in Maine had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Robert Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

 Associated Press writer Lolita Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.

ARREST WARRANT ISSUED FOR SUSPECT IN MAINE SHOOTING

An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder has been issued for the suspect in the shootings at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant, according to state police.

As more victims are identified, the counts against suspect Robert Card will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Police responded to a very fast moving, very dangerous scene, Ross said, noting that seven people were found dead at the bowling alley and eight at the bar, including one victim who was outside. All had gunshot wounds. Three people who were taken to hospitals also died, Ross said.

MAINE GOV. MILLS SAYS SHOOTING DEATH TOLL RISES TO 18

The death toll in the shooting at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant has risen to 18 people killed, according to Gov. Janet Mills. Another 13 were injured in the shootings Wednesday night, she said.

Mills said law enforcement is still searching for shooting suspect Robert Card, who is considered armed and dangerous.

The governor warned that people should not approach Card under any circumstances. She asked people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

The full weight of her administration is behind the law enforcement effort to capture Card and hold whoever is responsible accountable and seek justice for the victims and their families, Mills said.

We cannot and we will not rest in this endeavor, Mills said.

MAINE SHOOTING ANGERS PARENT OF COLLEGE STUDENT

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College in Lewiston, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed.

Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son spoke and texted late into the night and he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured, the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  The U.N. warned Wednesday that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory blockaded and devastated by Israeli airstrikes since Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel more than two weeks ago.

The warning came as hospitals in Gaza struggled to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources. Meanwhile, the U.N.s top official faced backlash from Israel after saying the Hamas massacre that sparked the fighting did not take place in a vacuum.

Health officials said the death toll was soaring as Israeli jets pounded Gaza. Workers pulled dead and wounded civilians, including many children, out of landscapes of rubble in cities across the territory.

Gazas Health Ministry, which is controlled by Hamas, said more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and it was not known if the count included any militants.

The Israeli military, which accuses Hamas of operating among civilians, said its strikes killed militants and destroyed military targets. Gaza militants have fired unrelenting rocket barrages into Israel since the conflict started.

The rising death toll in Gaza  following a reported 704 killed the day before  was unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, an Islamic militant group sworn to Israels destruction.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. The figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel  mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gazas population has been running out of food, water and medicine, too, under Israel's seal. About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into U.N. shelters.

In recent days, Israel let a small number of trucks with aid enter from Egypt but barred deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? Do we bump clean water or do we send trucks to the borders? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said.

At Gaza Citys al-Shifa Hospital, the lack of medicine and clean water have led to alarming infection rates, the group Doctors Without Borders said. Amputations are often required to prevent infection from spreading in the wounded, it said.

One surgeon with the group described amputating half the foot of a 9-year-old boy with slight sedation on a hallway floor as his mother and sister watched.

A strike Wednesday in the Nuseirat refugee camp killed the wife, son, daughter and grandson of one of Al Jazeera TV's chief correspondents, Wael Dahdouh. Footage aired on the Qatari based network showed the veteran journalist weeping over his son's body on a hospital floor.

They take vengeance on us through our children? he sobbed.

In a swath of Gaza City's Yarmouk neighborhood reduced to splinters, a bleeding man hugged a child after both were dug out of the rubble. A bakery in Deir al-Balah was flattened. In a nearby hospital, medics treated a boy with a mangled, half-severed leg. One worker lifted a dead baby out of the shattered concrete and rebar of 15 homes hit in the southern city of Rafah.

The conflict threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Strikes in Syria also hit the airports of Aleppo and Damascus, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah met with top Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad officials in their first reported meeting since the war started. Such a meeting could signal coordination between the groups, as Hezbollah officials warned Israel against launching a ground offensive in Gaza.

Hamas' surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened," he said. "This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

U.S. President Joe Biden said that after the conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work toward a two-state solution. He also decried increasing attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, saying they must stop now.

Settler attacks have been part of swelling violence in the occupied West Bank, including clashes between fighters and Israeli troops and shootings of stone-throwing protesters. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed, health authorities say.

Israels U.N. ambassador, Gilad Erdan, said his country will stop issuing visas to U.N. personnel after U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that Hamas attack did not happen in a vacuum. It was unclear what the action, if implemented, would mean for U.N. aid personnel working in Gaza and the West Bank.

Its time to teach them a lesson, Erdan told Army Radio, accusing the U.N. chief of justifying a slaughter.

The U.N. chief told the Security Council on Tuesday that the Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. Guterres said the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

Guterres said Wednesday he is shocked at the misinterpretation of his statement as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas.

This is false. It was the opposite, he told reporters.

Magdy reported from Cairo and Keath from Athens. Associated Press writers Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip; Aamer Madhani in Washington; Amy Teibel in Jerusalem; Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations; Sarah El Deeb in Beirut; and Brian Melley in London contributed.
Korea Exchange (KRX), the countrys stock market operator, is strengthening promotion featuring its personified characters "Hwangbi," a bull, and "Woongbi," a bear.

The characters have been used for the bourse operators social media and special events, but have not been widely recognized by the public. In response, KRX is launching a prompotional campaign to raise awareness.

The KRX said it plans to create large inflatable figures of Hwangbi and Woongbi and install them at the bourse operators office in Seoul. The six-meter installments will be exhibited from Nov. 6 to 17, to increase public recognition of the characters. The inflatable sculptures will be exhibited in Busan from Nov. 20 to 28, adding to the city's efforts to host the World Expo 2030.

The operator also plans to promote the characters by operating a pop-up cafe from Nov. 6 to Nov. 17. Special drinks and cookies named after the two characters will be offered.

KRX introduced the two characters in 2010, using the concept of bull and bear markets. Hwangbi, a red bull, represents a rising market with its horns pointing upward. Woongbi, a blue bear, symbolizes a falling market as bears move their claws from top to bottom.

Given the emerging active participation of younger generations in stock investment, the KRX gave Hwangbi and Woongbi a makeover to make them more approachable and facilitate active online and offline communication. They transitioned from having angular faces with pronounced eyebrows, emphasizing trustworthiness, to having rounder and cuter appearances.

The KRX explains that Hwangbi is a character who values learning as it knows that bullish markets eventually come to an end. It wears a red tie, a color representing a rising market, and carries money with its tail.

Woongbi, meanwhile, empathizes with investors and businesses and listens to them with a heart of sympathy. As an icon of sadness, Woongbi has an arrow stuck in its back, and wears a blue downward-pointing arrow on its chest, symbolizing the bearish market. It cries in empathy with investors pain as it is a character who provides comfort during difficult times. (Advertorial)
FREELANCE (Rated R for violence and language)

An ex-special forces operative takes a job to provide security for a journalist as she interviews a dictator, but, a military coup breaks out in the middle of the interview, they are forced to escape into the jungle where they must survive.

INSPECTOR SUN (Rated PG for action and some suggestive material)

Inspector Sun boards a seemingly normal plane for a much-needed vacation, but when an enigmatic millionaire receives a threat on his life, Sun is back on the case. Trapped in a web of lies, Sun must find the culprit before its too late.

AFTER DEATH (Rated PG-13 for thematic material including violent descriptions, some bloody images and drug references)

Based on real near-death experiences, the movie explores the afterlife with the guidance of New York Times bestselling authors, medical experts, scientists, and survivors that shed a light on what awaits us.

THE HOLDOVERS (Rated R for language, some drug use and brief sexual material)

A cranky history teacher at a prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a student who has no family plans.

UNDER THE BOARDWALK (Rated PG for some impolite material and mild violence)

Sea crab tourists clash with land crab townies on the Jersey shore.

NEW DVD RELEASES FOR THE WEEK

Meg 2: The Trench

Dark Winds: Season Two

Scooby-Doo! and Krypto Too!

The Boys: Season 3

Til Death Do Us Part
Skeptical Science New Research for Week #43 2023

Posted on 26 October 2023 by Doug Bostrom, Marc Kodack

Open access notables

It's always a special pleasure to note an article including Skeptical Science's founder John Cook in the author roster. Misinformation and the epistemic integrity of democracy includes not only Cook as a collaborator but also a cast of other familiar authorities on human cognition in connection with climate science, in particular how our mental equipment struggles with following a continuous thread of truth through a tangled knot of disconnected confusion in the form of misinformation.

We're not necessarily very good thinkers in the best of circumstances. We often fail to think clearly when we're in the presence of misinformation or synthetic ignorance, especially when it's calculated and crafted exactly for the purpose of paralyzing competent treatment. In their abstract the authors note "Democracy relies on a shared body of knowledge among citizens, for example trust in elections and reliable knowledge to inform policy-relevant debate." One can extend that thought (and the article implicltly does); not only democracy is at stake, but arguably all of what we currently consider to be "civilization." If we hear and believe that a virus is less likely to be causing a global pandemic than 5G cellular phone equipment and we've been fostered to be in large company, our public health systems begin to break down. Similarly, if our heads are stuffed with confusing rubbish about how Earth's climate functions, our societal cohesion and hence collective ability to govern side-effects of industry such as CO2 emissions and climate change malfunctions as we're now acutely aware.

We can be thankful that not only this team but also a small army of other researchers are figuring out how to thicken our mental armor against bunk. In this work Lewandowsky et al. identify how misinformation has evolved to more efficiently attack and degrade public confidence in science, and specific tested methods of amelioriating this harm.

As complete a quantification of the physical impacts and external costs imposed by state-of-the-art ungoverned mechanized avarice as anybody could desire: The Environmental Footprint of Bitcoin Mining Across the Globe: Call for Urgent Action. Published in AGU Earth's Future by Chamanara, Ghaffarizadeh & Madani, this report has already made a splash in the press. But no newspaper will run enough column inches to fully capture the catastrophically entropic energy travesty inflicted on us all by bitcoin mining. Happily, the article is open access, so all the details are available.

If it were an engineer's report to a condo association describing a buildiing with failing environmental systems caused by poor habits of occupants, the condo board of directors would be feverishly revising bylaws, posting notes to offenders and urgently planning and then actioning repairs. However, The 2023 state of the climate report: Entering uncharted territory reports that nobody's answering the phone with listening ears fully open when it comes to climate change. Ripple et al. recite a growing damage list, an inventory of Earth systems degrading due to our fossil-fueled climate intervention and upset. Noting obligations and demands for forthright communications from scientists, the authors oblige, joining a burgeoning chorus ignited by eye-popping statistics from the year we're still in:

As scientists, we are increasingly being asked to tell the public the truth about the crises we face in simple and direct terms. The truth is that we are shocked by the ferocity of the extreme weather events in 2023. We are afraid of the uncharted territory that we have now entered. Conditions are going to get very distressing and potentially unmanageable for large regions of the world, with the 2.6C warming expected over the course of the century, even if the self-proposed national emissions reduction commitments of the Paris Agreement are met.

As if running a country not richly endowed with economic underpinnings that is also facing population pressures both internal as well superimposed thanks to generosity while trying to tiptoe through simmering conflict on all sides without also being set aflame-- is not already hard enough, we can still pile on more pressure. Integrating Climate Security into Policy Frameworks: Jordan identifies emerging climate-driven problems in Jordan, contextualizing them to Jordan's unique set of challenges. This ends up sounding fairly hair-raising to anybody able to form a comparative mental picture and who happens to be in more fortunate circumstances. It's a testament to hope if nothing else that the report goes on to construct a comprehensive launching point for short, medium and long term policy objectives to ameliorate the weight of climate change added to an already straining governance framework. A product of adelphi and CGIAR and one of several informative items In this week's government/NGO section.

Closing on a positive note: The ongoing lateral expansion of peatlands in Finland by Juselius-Rajamaki, Valiranta & Korhola in Global Change Biology. The authors report a surprising and pleasing finding, namely that contrary to conventional wisdom there are places on Earth where peatlands are expanding. At least, it's true in parts of Finland, where all five sampled areas showed increasing areal coverage. It's not a "get out of jail free" card by any means, but a brief glance at any weekly listing's "GHG sources & sinks, flux.." section reveals how the needle of organic carbon movement is generally pointed in the wrong direction. Anything grabbing carbon and sinking it is a gift at this point, making our mitigation efforts just a little bit easier.

Housekeeping

This edition of New Research includes some "back catalog" thanks our clearing a clog in the pipeline emptying as our weekly listing. Preprints as a publicly-accessible feature in the academic publishing landscape underwent an acceleration after many technical conventions for bibliiographic indexes and publication metadata tracking were established. Methods and procedures for handling preprints were added as pressure on the systems increased. It eventuates that accounting for the lifecycle of a paper as it may first appear in preprint and then (hopefully) progress to "pupate" to emerge as a published article adds complexity, with opportunities for errors and omissions. For New Research this has manifested as some peculiar glitches in how certain publishers handle the evolution of a paper, compared to how the majority operate, leading a fair number of items "stuck" in preprint status and hence unlisted here. This problem is substantially fixed with additional local logic, and this issue contains the entire (?) backlog of previously arrested reports.

172 articles in 48 journals by 1185 contributing authors

Physical science of climate change, effects

Alongshore winds force warm Atlantic Water toward Helheim Glacier in southeast Greenland, Snow et al., Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10507001.1

An Analytic Model for the Clear-Sky Longwave Feedback, Koll et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512192.1

Arctic freshwater impact on the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation: status and prospects, Haine et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 10.1098/rsta.2022.0185

Arctic Sea Ice Loss Inducing Northwest Extension of Summer Precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau, Hu et al., Journal of Climate 10.1175/jcli-d-23-0027.1

Arctic weather variability and connectivity, Meng et al., Nature Communications Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41467-023-42351-x

Comparative changes in seasonal marine heatwaves and cold spells over the Tropical Indian Ocean during recent decades and disentangling the drivers of highly intense events, Dinesh et al., International Journal of Climatology 10.1002/joc.8272

Effects of variable iceocean surface properties and air mass transformation on the Arctic radiative energy budget, Wendisch et al., Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-23-9647-2023

Energetic Constraints on the Pattern of Changes to the Hydrological Cycle under Global Warming, Bonan et al., Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10511511.1

How a stable greenhouse effect on Earth is maintained under global warming, Feng et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512049.1

Meridional Heat Transport in the DeepMIP Eocene ensemble: Non-CO2 and CO2 effects, Kelemen et al., Open Access pdf 10.22541/essoar.167065777.72214683/v1

The Global Patterns of Instantaneous CO2 Forcing at the Top of the Atmosphere and the Surface, Chen et al., Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10512390.1

Observations of climate change, effects

Extreme temperatures detection and attribution related to external forcing in Madagascar, Randriamarolaza et al., Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10511046.1

Fingerprint of climate change on Southern Ocean carbon storage, Wright et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512597.1

How Is Spatial Homogeneity in Precipitation Extremes Changing Globally?, Ghanghas et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512705.1

Increase of Simultaneous Soybean Failures Due To Climate Change, Moreno Dumont Goulart et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512181.1

Long-term warming and interannual variability contributions to marine heatwaves in the Mediterranean, Simon et al., Weather and Climate Extremes Open Access 10.1016/j.wace.2023.100619

Natural disasters related to rainfall trends in Espirito Santo, southeastern Brazil, de Oliveira Roza et al., Theoretical and Applied Climatology 10.1007/s00704-023-04703-x

Observed Changes in Interannual Precipitation Variability in the United States, Harp & Horton Horton Horton, Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10511770.1

Pacific decadal oscillation causes fewer near-equatorial cyclones in the North Indian Ocean, Roose et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-566899/v1

Permafrost degradation at two monitored palsa mires in north-west Finland, Verdonen et al., Open Access 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1173

Pervasive Permafrost Thaw Exacerbates Future Risk of Water Shortage Across the Tibetan Plateau, Wang et al., Earth's Future Open Access pdf 10.1029/2022ef003463

Robust Human Influence across the Troposphere, Surface, and Ocean: A Multivariate Analysis, Blackport et al., Journal of Climate 10.1175/jcli-d-23-0068.1

Start&2023&4, Ivanov et al., Open Access pdf 10.3897/bdj.11.e100521.figure4

Strengthened Connections Between Arctic Sea Ice and Thermal Conditions Over the Tibetan Plateau in May After the 2000s, Hu et al., Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres 10.1029/2023jd039122

The Atmosphere Has Become Increasingly Unstable During 19792020 Over the Northern Hemisphere, Chen & Dai, Geophysical Research Letters Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023gl106125

The extremely hot and dry 2018 summer in central and northern Europe from a multi-faceted weather and climate perspective, Rousi et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-813

The global costs of extreme weather that are attributable to climate change, Newman & Noy Noy Noy, Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2112393/v1

Instrumentation & observational methods of climate change, effects

CEDAR-GPP: spatiotemporally upscaled estimates of gross primary productivity incorporating CO2 fertilization, Kang et al., Open Access pdf 10.31223/x5r957

CLARA-A3: The third edition of the AVHRR-based CM SAF climate data record on clouds, radiation and surface albedo covering the period 1979 to 2023, Karlsson et al., Open Access 10.5194/essd-2023-133

Evaluation of simulated CO2 power plant plumes from six high-resolution atmospheric transport models, Brunnner et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-2022-645

Improving the thermocline calculation over the global ocean, Romero et al., Open Access 10.5194/egusphere-2022-788

The effect of homogenization when constructing long-term gridded monthly precipitation and temperature data, Tveito, International Journal of Climatology Open Access pdf 10.1002/joc.8283

Towards two decades of Atlantic Ocean mass and heat transports at 26.5 N, Johns et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0188

Modeling, simulation & projection of climate change, effects

Climate projections for HimalayaTibetan Highland, Bhuyan et al., Theoretical and Applied Climatology 10.1007/s00704-023-04677-w

Compound wind and precipitation extremes at a global scale based on CMIP6 models: Evaluation, projection and uncertainty, Zhu et al., International Journal of Climatology 10.1002/joc.8281

Dense water formation in the eastern Mediterranean under a global warming scenario, Parras-Berrocal et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2023-159

Dependence of Northern Hemisphere Tropospheric Transport on the Midlatitude Jet under Abrupt CO2 Increase, Zhang et al., Open Access pdf 10.22541/essoar.168614359.90262787/v1

Evolution of Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation since the last glaciation: model simulations and relevance to present and future, Liu, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 10.1098/rsta.2022.0190

Global Warming Reshapes European Pyroregions, Galizia et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512410.1

Heat waves in Florida and their future from high-resolution regional climate model integrations, Beasley et al., International Journal of Climatology 10.1002/joc.8278

Pacific Decadal Oscillation Influences Tropical Oxygen Minimum Zone Extent and Obscures Anthropogenic Changes, Poupon et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512869.1

Seasonal Changes in Atmospheric Heat Transport to the Arctic Under Increased CO2, Hahn et al., Geophysical Research Letters Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023gl105156

Stratospherically induced circulation changes under the extreme conditions of the no-Montreal-Protocol scenario, Zilker et al., Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-23-13387-2023

Unavoidable future increase in West Antarctic ice-shelf melting over the twenty-first century, Naughten et al., Nature Climate Change Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41558-023-01818-x

Weakening of springtime Arctic ozone depletion with climate change, Friedel et al., Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics Open Access 10.5194/acp-23-10235-2023

Advancement of climate & climate effects modeling, simulation & projection

Association of the cloud radiative effect with the changes in the northern edge of Hadley circulation between the CMIP5 and CMIP6 models in boreal summer, Gui et al., Theoretical and Applied Climatology 10.1007/s00704-023-04679-8

Can we trust projections of AMOC weakening based on climate models that cannot reproduce the past?, McCarthy & Caesar, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0193

Challenges simulating the AMOC in climate models, Jackson et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 10.1098/rsta.2022.0187

Contrasting internally and externally generated Atlantic Multidecadal Variability and the role for AMOC in CMIP6 historical simulations, Robson et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0194

Contrasting Responses of Surface Heat Fluxes to Tropical Deforestation, Chen & Lo Lo, Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512785.1

Global 1km Land Surface Parameters for Kilometer-Scale Earth System Modeling, Li et al., Open Access pdf 10.31223/x5xh4g

Uncertainty in projections of future lake thermal dynamics is differentially driven by lake and global climate models, Woelmer et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512951.1

Cryosphere & climate change

A long-term proxy for sea ice thickness in the Canadian Arctic: 19962020, Glissenaar et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2023-269

A model of the weathering crust and microbial activity on an ice-sheet surface, Woods & Hewitt Hewitt Hewitt, Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1086

Change in Antarctic ice shelf area from 2009 to 2019, Andreasen et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1087

Changes in March mean snow water equivalent since the mid-twentieth century and the contributing factors in reanalyses and CMIP6 climate models, Raisanen, Open Access 10.5194/tc-2022-248

Climate Variability and Glacier Evolution at Selected Sites Across the World: Past Trends and Future Projections, Al?Yaari et al., Earth's Future Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023ef003618

CRYO, , Current Opinion in Structural Biology Open Access 10.1016/j.sbi.2018.11.010

A long-term proxy for sea ice thickness in the Canadian Arctic: 19962020, Glissenaar et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2023-269

A model of the weathering crust and microbial activity on an ice-sheet surface, Woods & Hewitt Hewitt Hewitt, Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1086

Change in Antarctic ice shelf area from 2009 to 2019, Andreasen et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1087

Changes in March mean snow water equivalent since the mid-twentieth century and the contributing factors in reanalyses and CMIP6 climate models, Raisanen, Open Access 10.5194/tc-2022-248

Climate Variability and Glacier Evolution at Selected Sites Across the World: Past Trends and Future Projections, Al?Yaari et al., Earth's Future Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023ef003618

Direct measurement of warm Atlantic Intermediate Water close to the grounding line of Nioghalvfjerdsfjorden (79N) Glacier, North-east Greenland, Bentley et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/tc-2022-206

Greenland Ice Sheet Ice Slab Expansion and Thickening, Jullien et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512372.1

Identifying mountain permafrost degradation by repeating historical ERT-measurements, Buckel et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/tc-2022-207

Insight into historical and future spring snow cover from satellite observation and model simulations over the Northern Hemisphere, Guo et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512398.1

Investigating the thermal state of permafrost with Bayesian inverse modeling of heat transfer, Groenke et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-630

Mapping 24 woody plant species phenology and ground forests phenology over China from 19512020, Zhu et al., Open Access 10.5194/essd-2023-159

Rapid sea ice changes in the future Barents Sea, Rieke et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-324

Relevance of warm air intrusions for Arctic satellite sea ice climatologies, Rostosky & Spreen, Open Access 10.5194/tc-2023-69

Unavoidable future increase in West Antarctic ice-shelf melting over the twenty-first century, Naughten et al., Nature Climate Change Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41558-023-01818-x

Unlocking archival maps of the Hornsund fjord area for monitoring glaciers of the Srkapp Land peninsula, Svalbard, Dudek & P?tlicki P?tlicki, Earth System Science Data Open Access pdf 10.5194/essd-15-3869-2023

Unveiling spatial variability within the Dotson Melt Channel through high-resolution basal melt rates from the Reference Elevation Model of Antarctica, Zinck et al., The Cryosphere Open Access pdf 10.5194/tc-17-3785-2023

Widespread slowdown in thinning rates of West Antarctic ice shelves, Paolo et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1128

Sea level & climate change

Improving statistical projections of ocean dynamic sea-level change using pattern recognition techniques, Malagon-Santos et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-1293

Reconsidering the Relationship Between Gulf Stream Transport and Dynamic Sea Level at U.S. East Coast, Chi et al., Open Access 10.1002/essoar.10508225.1

Paleoclimate & paleogeochemistry

Bayesian weighting of climate models based on climate sensitivity, Massoud et al., Communications Earth & Environment Open Access pdf 10.1038/s43247-023-01009-8

Natural ocean iron fertilization and climate variability over geological periods, Jiang et al., Global Change Biology 10.1111/gcb.16990

Poleward shift in the Southern Hemisphere westerly winds synchronous with the deglacial rise in CO2, Gray et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-404786/v1

The impact of climate change on Quaternary glaciers of Gharaghom Basin in Iran, Azirani & Ghorbani Ghorbani, Theoretical and Applied Climatology Open Access 10.1007/s00704-023-04701-z

Biology & climate change, related geochemistry

Above-treeline ecosystems facing drought: lessons from the 2022 European summer heat wave, Choler, Biogeosciences Open Access pdf 10.5194/bg-20-4259-2023

Biomes of the world under climate change scenarios: increasing aridity and higher temperatures lead to significant shifts in natural vegetation, Bonannella et al., Open Access 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2471847/v1

Climate change should drive mammal defaunation in tropical dry forests, Moura et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2023.08.17.553094

Climate dependence of the macrofaunal effect on litter decompositionA global meta-regression analysis, Sagi & Hawlena, Ecology Letters Open Access pdf 10.1111/ele.14333

Diverse strategies for tracking seasonal environmental niches at hemispheric scale, Cohen & Jetz Jetz, Open Access pdf 10.1101/2022.07.15.500241

Forest composition change and biophysical climate feedbacks across boreal North America, Massey et al., Nature Climate Change Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41558-023-01851-w

Growth responses to climate warming and their physiological mechanisms differ between mature and young larch trees in a boreal permafrost region, Qi et al., Agricultural and Forest Meteorology 10.1016/j.agrformet.2023.109765

INTRAGRO: A machine learning approach to predict future growth of trees under climate change, Aryal et al., Ecology and Evolution Open Access pdf 10.1002/ece3.10626

Juvenile waiting stage crown-of-thorns sea stars are resilient in heatwave conditions that bleach and kill corals, Byrne et al., Global Change Biology Open Access 10.1111/gcb.16946

Majority of Southern Ocean Seasonal Sea Ice Zone Bloom Net Community Production Precedes Total Ice Retreat, McClish & Bushinsky, Geophysical Research Letters Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023gl103459

Mapping 24 woody plant species phenology and ground forests phenology over China from 19512020, Zhu et al., Open Access 10.5194/essd-2023-159

No evidence for direct thermal carryover effects on starvation tolerance in the obligate blood-feeder, Glossina morsitans morsitans, Weaving et al., Ecology and Evolution Open Access pdf 10.1002/ece3.10652

Patterns of change in coral reef communities of a remote Maldivian atoll revisited after eleven years, Zampa et al., PeerJ Open Access 10.7717/peerj.16071

Performance of Orbicella faveolata larval cohorts does not align with previously observed thermal tolerance of adult source populations, Zhang et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2023.06.28.546780

Pervasive impacts of climate change on the woodiness and ecological generalism of dry forest plant assemblages, Moura et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2022.03.04.482968

Prioritizing conservation efforts based on future habitat availability and accessibility under climate change, Liang et al., Conservation Biology 10.1111/cobi.14204

Sapling recruitment does not compensate for increased tree mortality under climate change, Zhu et al., Agricultural and Forest Meteorology 10.1016/j.agrformet.2023.109763

Seaweed and climate change: A mapping review, Segaran et al., Marine Environmental Research 10.1016/j.marenvres.2023.106216

The critical role of coastal protected areas in buffering impacts of extreme climatic conditions on bird diversity and their ecosystem services' provisioning in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, Mokotjomela et al., Ecology and Evolution Open Access pdf 10.1002/ece3.10452

Topography modulates climate sensitivity of multidecadal trends of holm oak decline, Lopez-Ballesteros et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2023.03.09.531879

Transformation of coral communities subjected to an unprecedented heatwave is modulated by local disturbance, Baum et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2022.05.10.491220

Tree Growth Enhancement Drives a Persistent Biomass Gain in Unmanaged Temperate Forests, Marques et al., AGU Advances Open Access pdf 10.1029/2022av000859

Tree species diversity increases soil microbial carbon use efficiency in a subtropical forest, Duan et al., Global Change Biology Open Access pdf 10.1111/gcb.16971

TreeGOER: A database with globally observed environmental ranges for 48,129 tree species, Kindt, Open Access pdf 10.1101/2023.05.15.540790

Warmer temperatures favor slower-growing bacteria in natural marine communities, Abreu et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2022.07.13.499956

Wetland productivity determines trade-off between biodiversity support and greenhouse gas production, Ahlen et al., Ecology and Evolution Open Access pdf 10.1002/ece3.10619

GHG sources & sinks, flux, related geochemistry

A global synthesis and conceptualization of the magnitude and duration of soil carbon losses in response to forest disturbances, Mayer et al., Global Ecology and Biogeography Open Access pdf 10.1111/geb.13779

Anthropogenic Perturbations Change the Quality and Quantity of Terrestrial Carbon Flux to the Coastal Ocean, Wei et al., Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences 10.1029/2023jg007482

Bacterioplankton dark CO2 fixation in oligotrophic waters, Alothman et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/bg-2023-65

Central Arctic Ocean surface-atmosphere exchange of CO2 and CH4 constrained by direct measurements, Prytherch et al., Open Access 10.5194/bg-2023-82

Ecosystem responses dominate the trends of annual gross primary productivity over terrestrial ecosystems of China during 20002020, Zhu et al., Agricultural and Forest Meteorology 10.1016/j.agrformet.2023.109758

Fingerprint of climate change on Southern Ocean carbon storage, Wright et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512597.1

Global Carbon Budget 2023, Friedlingstein et al., Open Access 10.5194/essd-2023-409

High interannual surface pCO2 variability in the southern Canadian Arctic Archipelago's Kitikmeot Sea, Sims et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-710

Large contributions of petrogenic and aged soil-derived organic carbon to Arctic fjord sediments in Svalbard, Kim et al., Scientific Reports Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41598-023-45141-z

Lipids of different phytoplankton groups differ in sensitivity to degradation: Implications for carbon export, Godrijan et al., Open Access pdf 10.1101/2023.05.10.539996

Monitoring and quantifying CO2 emissions of isolated power plants from space, Lin et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-egu23-7665

Ocean acidification enhances primary productivity and nocturnal carbonate dissolution in intertidal rock pools, Dorey et al., Open Access 10.5194/bg-2023-79

Optical insight into riverine influences on dissolved and particulate organic carbon in a coastal Arctic lagoon system, Catipovic et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512826.1

Quantification of methane emissions in Hamburg using a network of FTIR spectrometers and an inverse modeling approach, Forstmaier et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-2022-710

Quantification of Oil and Gas Methane Emissions in the Delaware and Marcellus Basins Using a Network of Continuous Tower-Based Measurements, Barkley et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-2022-709

Radiocarbon Measurements Reveal Underestimated Fossil CH4 and CO2 Emissions in London, Zazzeri et al., Open Access pdf 10.22541/essoar.168167395.57906893/v1

Seasonal and interannual variability of the pelagic ecosystem and of the organic carbon budget in the Rhodes Gyre (eastern Mediterranean): influence of winter mixing, Habib et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/bg-2022-216

Spatial and temporal variations of gross primary production simulated by land surface model BCC&AVIM2.0, Li et al., Advances in Climate Change Research Open Access 10.1016/j.accre.2023.02.001

Submersed Macrophyte Density Regulates Aquatic Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Theus et al., Journal of Geophysical Research: Biogeosciences 10.1029/2023jg007758

The ongoing lateral expansion of peatlands in Finland, Juselius?Rajamaki et al., Global Change Biology Open Access pdf 10.1111/gcb.16988

The positive effect of plant diversity on soil carbon depends on climate, Spohn et al., Nature Communications Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41467-023-42340-0

Tree Growth Enhancement Drives a Persistent Biomass Gain in Unmanaged Temperate Forests, Marques et al., AGU Advances Open Access pdf 10.1029/2022av000859

CO2 capture, sequestration science & engineering

Assessing the carbon offsetting potential of Chinas forest sector: reflection and outlook, Yuan et al., Carbon Management Open Access pdf 10.1080/17583004.2023.2266671

Increase in convective extreme El Nino events in a CO2 removal scenario, Pathirana et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1938270/v1

Realistic potential increases in carbon storage via timber rotation extensions: an analysis of the Pacific Northwest, Randazzo & Gordon, Carbon Management Open Access pdf 10.1080/17583004.2023.2265154

Decarbonization

A multi-model framework to assess the role of R&D towards a decarbonized energy system, Nogueira et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1451109/v1

Emerging materials and technologies for electrocatalytic seawater splitting, Jin et al., Science Advances Open Access pdf 10.1126/sciadv.adi7755

Impacts of climate change, population growth, and power sector decarbonization on urban building energy use, Wang et al., Nature Communications Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41467-023-41458-5

Inverted perovskite solar cells with over 2,000 h operational stability at 85 C using fixed charge passivation, Yang et al., Nature Energy 10.1038/s41560-023-01377-7

Land resource mismatch and energy efficiency: Evidence from 243 cities in China, Zhou et al., Energy Policy 10.1016/j.enpol.2023.113800

Power generation enhancement analysis of a 400 kWp grid-connected rooftop photovoltaic power plant in a hilly terrain of India, Tajjour et al., Energy for Sustainable Development 10.1016/j.esd.2023.101333

Shedding light on the environmental impact of the decomposition of perovskite solar cell, Sabahi & Shahroosvand Sabahi, Scientific Reports Open Access pdf 10.1038/s41598-023-44781-5

Underground hydrogen storage in caverns: Challenges of impure salt structures, Minougou et al., Earth 10.1016/j.earscirev.2023.104599

Geoengineering climate

Alkalinity biases in CMIP6 Earth System Models and implications for simulated CO2 drawdown via artificial alkalinity enhancement, Hinrichs et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/bg-2023-26

Using Explainable Artificial Intelligence to Quantify Climate Distinguishability After Stratospheric Aerosol Injection, Mamalakis et al., Open Access pdf 10.22541/essoar.168565419.96137434/v1

Aerosols

Anthropogenic Aerosols Weaken LandAtmosphere Coupling Over North China, Wei et al., Geophysical Research Letters Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023gl105685

Climate change communications & cognition

Climate change and depressive disorder in middle-aged and older people in China: A quasi-experimental study, Li et al., Journal of Environmental Psychology 10.1016/j.jenvp.2023.102162

Misinformation and the epistemic integrity of democracy, Lewandowsky et al., Current Opinion in Psychology Open Access 10.1016/j.copsyc.2023.101711

What psychology can tell us about the cultural effects of climate change, Wormley, Journal of Environmental Psychology 10.1016/j.jenvp.2023.102175

Agronomy, animal husbundry, food production & climate change

Ecosystem-based adaptation practices to stem climate change impacts: smallholder farmers perspectives, Dong-Uuro & Peprah, Climate Policy 10.1080/14693062.2023.2269121

Increase of Simultaneous Soybean Failures Due To Climate Change, Moreno Dumont Goulart et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512181.1

Prediction of the potentially suitable areas of Leonurus japonicus in China based on future climate change using the optimized MaxEnt model, Wang et al., Ecology and Evolution Open Access pdf 10.1002/ece3.10597

Semantics about soil organic carbon storage: DATA4C+, a comprehensive thesaurus and classification of management practices in agriculture and forestry, Fujisaki et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/egusphere-2022-115

Tracking climate change adaptation in Eastern Africa: integrating governmental and livestock keeper perspectives, Njuguna et al., Climate Policy Open Access pdf 10.1080/14693062.2023.2268593

Viticulture extension in response to global climate change drivers  lessons from the past and future projections, Guiot et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1763994/v1

Wilderness areas under threat from global redistribution of agriculture, Gardner et al., Current Biology Open Access pdf 10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.013

Hydrology, hydrometeorology & climate change

Continental and glacial runoff fingerprints in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, the Inuit Nunangat ocean, Rogalla et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10511815.2

Projected changes in rainfall amount and distribution in the Democratic Republic of Congo  Evidence from an ensemble of high-resolution climate simulations, Bangelesa et al., Weather and Climate Extremes Open Access 10.1016/j.wace.2023.100620

Substantial increase in future fluvial flood risk projected in Chinas major urban agglomerations, Jiang et al., Communications Earth & Environment Open Access pdf 10.1038/s43247-023-01049-0

Climate change economics

Asymmetric business cycle changes in US carbon emissions and oil market shocks, Jiang & Stern, Climatic Change Open Access pdf 10.1007/s10584-023-03620-2

Carbon footprints of the equity portfolios of Chinese fund firms, Jinglei et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2450576/v1

The global costs of extreme weather that are attributable to climate change, Newman & Noy Noy Noy, Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2112393/v1

Climate change and the circular economy Climate change mitigation public policy research

A calculator for local peatland volume and carbon stock to support area planners and decision makers, Kyrkjeeide et al., Carbon Management Open Access pdf 10.1080/17583004.2023.2267018

Analysis of the key hydrogen fuel vehicles adoption barriers to reduce carbon emissions under net zero target in emerging market, Rawat et al., Energy Policy Open Access 10.1016/j.enpol.2023.113847

Circular wood use can accelerate global decarbonisation but requires cross-sectoral coordination, Forster et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2745784/v1

Co-Producing Qualitative Storylines for Resilient Renewable Energy Scenarios Amid Climate Uncertainty, Baulenas & Bojovic, Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society Open Access pdf 10.1175/bams-d-23-0211.1

Increasing temporal resolution in greenhouse gas accounting of electricity consumption divided into Scopes 2 and 3: case study of Germany, Blizniukova et al., The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment Open Access pdf 10.1007/s11367-023-02240-3

The increasing climate inequalities of urban carbon emissions: The distributional effect of low-carbon city pilot policy, Dong et al., Urban Climate 10.1016/j.uclim.2023.101718

US climate policy yields water quality cobenefits in the Mississippi Basin and Gulf of Mexico, Zuidema et al., Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Open Access 10.1073/pnas.2302087120

Climate change adaptation & adaptation public policy research

Does targeted poverty alleviation improve households adaptation to hot weathers: Evidence from electricity consumption of poor households, Deng et al., Energy Policy 10.1016/j.enpol.2023.113850

Global climate adaptation assessed by structured expert judgement for coastal areas, , Nature Climate Change 10.1038/s41558-023-01844-9

Status of global coastal adaptation, Magnan et al., Nature Climate Change 10.1038/s41558-023-01834-x

Understanding the climate change adaptation policy landscape in South Africa, Khavhagali et al., Climate Policy Open Access pdf 10.1080/14693062.2023.2268576

Climate change impacts on human health

Climate variability and water-related infectious diseases in Pacific Island Countries and Territories, a systematic review, Hosking et al., PLOS Climate Open Access pdf 10.1371/journal.pclm.0000296

Climate change & geopolitics

Cross-border impacts of climate change affect the energy transition: Insights from the Finnish energy sector, Groundstroem, Climatic Change Open Access pdf 10.1007/s10584-023-03619-9

US Higher education and fossil fuels: the limits of liberalism in university climate action, Al-Saleh & Vora, Climate and Development 10.1080/17565529.2023.2247378

Other

Labrador sea water spreading and the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation, Le Bras, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0189

Observed mechanisms activating the recent subpolar North Atlantic Warming since 2016, Chafik et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0183

Ocean alkalinity enhancement through restoration of blue carbon ecosystems, Fakhraee et al., Open Access pdf 10.21203/rs.3.rs-1982110/v1

Overturning in the subpolar North Atlantic: a review, Lozier, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0191

Strong Warming over the Antarctic Peninsula during Combined Atmospheric River and Foehn Events: Contribution of Shortwave Radiation and Turbulence, Zou et al., Open Access pdf 10.1002/essoar.10512808.1

The effect of anthropogenic emission, meteorological factors, and carbon dioxide on the surface ozone increase in China from 2008 to 2018 during the East Asia summer monsoon season, Ma et al., Open Access pdf 10.5194/acp-2022-850

Informed opinion, nudges & major initiatives

Atlantic overturning: new observations and challenges, Srokosz et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences 10.1098/rsta.2022.0196

Should AMOC observations continue: how and why?, Frajka-Williams et al., Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences Open Access 10.1098/rsta.2022.0195

The 2023 state of the climate report: Entering uncharted territory, Ripple et al., BioScience Open Access pdf 10.1093/biosci/biad080

The Environmental Footprint of Bitcoin Mining Across the Globe: Call for Urgent Action, Chamanara et al., Earth's Future Open Access pdf 10.1029/2023ef003871

Wilderness areas under threat from global redistribution of agriculture, Gardner et al., Current Biology Open Access pdf 10.1016/j.cub.2023.09.013

Articles/Reports from Agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations Addressing Aspects of Climate Change

Accelerating Decarbonization in the United States: Technology, Policy, and Societal Dimensions (2023)*, Pacala et al., National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine

Through an assessment of current federal, state, and local climate and energy policies, the authors identify gaps and barriers to implementation that would prevent the nation from attaining its climate, economic, and societal goals. The authors organize their assessment around five major objectives of decarbonization policyGHG emission reductions, equity and fairness, health, employment, and public engagement that cut across eight sectors: electricity, buildings, land use, transportation, industry, finance, fossil fuels, and nonfederal actors.

* This link leads to a preprint version of the report. Reading the published version unfortunately requires sharing contact information. If sharing contact information is not an issue, the completed report may be read here. Scroll down and choose "download as guest."

Climate Action at Work, Tides Center

Reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 will require sweeping changes at all levels of government  federal, state, and local. The corporate sector could help accelerate the passage of ambitious climate policy, but too many companies are narrowly focused on reducing emissions in their own operations or investing in innovation for the long term. These are vital - but bold policies are needed to scale solutions much more quickly. The challenge is that ambitious public policy is needed to solve the climate crisis at scale. Employees can exert an outsized impact when they raise their voices about the climate at work. However, employees do not often realize that this lever is available to them, and when they do, it can be daunting to act without a playbook and without fellow colleagues to work with. The authors present such a playbook.

Beyond Divestment, David Whyte, Corporate Watch and Centre for Climate Crime and Climate Justice

The top 20 shareholders in both BP and Shell have increased their total number of shares by three-quarters of a billion in BP, and half a billion in Shell since the Paris Agreement was signed in 2015. Although 47% of BP shareholders and 54% of Shell shareholders have reduced their stake in Shell and BP, net share ownership has risen by 10% in both BP and Shell. Any trend towards divestment amongst the 47% and 54% of BP and Shell shareholders is being canceled out by the largest shareholders, who happen to include the worlds largest and most powerful asset managers. Moreover, what might look like divestment cannot always be read as such; more than a quarter of the 20 investors who made the most significant reductions in shareholdings in either BP or Shell actually increased their shares in the other company. Only 60 institutional investors have sold all their shares in the two oil firms. This represents 3% of BP and 4% of Shell shareholders. The enormous increase in both market capitalization and share price for the two oil giants since the Paris Agreement reaffirms the conclusion that divestment campaigns are not having the necessary impact. If shareholder divestment is not working fast enough  as this report shows  then we need to pursue other forms of intervention that drastically scale back oil and gas production.

Integrating Climate Security into Policy Frameworks: Jordan, Spencer McMurray, adelphi and CGIAR

The climate crisis is increasing security risks in Jordan. Of the manifold risks Jordan must contend with, the most pressing are those with direct implications for water resources which are already under significant strain due to both climatic and human-induced factors. Higher temperatures are leading to more evapotranspiration and reduced rainfall is especially critical, straining the groundwater and aquifer reserves that are already over-exploited. Extreme weather events and their impacts, including droughts, flash floods, and landslides, further complicate matters. These risks translate into important implications for Jordanians across a variety of areas, including political, social, demographic, and economic realms, especially when combined with pre-existing grievances and especially poverty. Together, these create significant challenges for food, water, and livelihood security, affecting the overall health and well-being of Jordanians.

Obtaining articles without journal subscriptions

We know it's frustrating that many articles we cite here are not free to read. One-off paid access fees are generally astronomically priced, suitable for such as "On a Heuristic Point of View Concerning the Production and Transformation of Light" but not as a gamble on unknowns. With a median world income of US$ 9,373, for most of us US$ 42 is significant money to wager on an article's relevance and importance.

Here's an excellent collection of tips and techniques for obtaining articles, legally.

Unpaywall offers a browser extension for Chrome and Firefox that automatically indicates when an article is freely accessible and provides immediate access without further trouble. Unpaywall is also unscammy, works well, is itself offered free to use. The organizers (a legitimate nonprofit) report about a 50% success rate

The weekly New Research catch is checked against the Unpaywall database with accessible items being flagged. Especially for just-published articles this mechansim may fail. If you're interested in an article title and it is not listed here as "open access," be sure to check the link anyway.

How is New Research assembled?

Most articles appearing here are found via RSS feeds from journal publishers, filtered by search terms to produce raw output for assessment of relevance.

Relevant articles are then queried against the Unpaywall database, to identify open access articles and expose useful metadata for articles appearing in the database.

The objective of New Research isn't to cast a tinge on scientific results, to color readers' impressions. Hence candidate articles are assessed via two metrics only:

Was an article deemed of sufficient merit by a team of journal editors and peer reviewers? The fact of journal RSS output assigns a "yes" to this automatically.

Is an article relevant to the topic of anthropogenic climate change? Due to filter overlap with other publication topics of inquiry, of a typical week's 550 or so input articles about 1/4 of RSS output makes the cut.

A few journals offer public access to "preprint" versions of articles for which the review process is not yet complete. For some key journals this all the mention we'll see in RSS feeds, so we include such items in New Research. These are flagged as "preprint."

The section "Informed opinion, nudges & major initiatives" includes some items that are not scientific research per se but fall instead into the category of "perspectives," observations of implications of research findings, areas needing attention, etc.

Suggestions

Please let us know if you're aware of an article you think may be of interest for Skeptical Science research news, or if we've missed something that may be important. Send your input to Skeptical Science via our contact form.

Journals covered

A list of journals we cover may be found here. We welcome pointers to omissions, new journals etc.

Previous edition

The previous edition of Skeptical Science New Research may be found here.
With alleged accomplices flipping left and right, its been a rough week for Donald Trump. On Tuesday, though, Trumps attorneys looked to turn that momentum around, filing three additional motions to dismiss the Jack Smithled federal prosecution of his efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

The legal filings offer a fascinating preview of Trumps potential defenses in the Washington prosecution brought by the special counsel. Will it work? Almost certainly not. Legal experts say the arguments are almost certain to fail to result in dismissal of the case, and in many ways, Trumps defenses are outright absurd. Former federal prosecutor and impeachment expert Frank Bowman called the dismissal motions an embarrassing goulash of mischaracterized facts and inverted logic, not to speak of misapplied legal citations.

How bad are Trumps latest motions for dismissaland thus his possible defenses at trial? At one point, Trumps attorneys literally argue whos to say whats true and whats not true in regards to Trumps (untrue) claim that the election was stolen. That claim, remember, underpins the entire case. Bottom line on all of this stuff is that its so bad from a legal perspective that some of it comes close to being sanctionable by the court, Bowman said.

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Heres a quick look at some of the most ridiculous and grotesque arguments for Trumps innocence made by his legal team in these latest filings.

Argument 1: You Cant Prove That the Election Wasnt Stolen

This is the argument that takes the cakeand is likely in there almost exclusively for the satisfaction of the client. One of Trumps motions to dismiss rests on the premise that hes being persecuted for unpopularbut First Amendmentprotectedpolitical speech. That claim rests on the notion that none of the actions he and his alleged co-conspirators took to try to overturn the election went beyond such protected speech, a debatable premise at best.

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Here, though, is where Trumps lawyers truly go off the rails. They state that theres no way to prove that Trumps claims about a stolen election were even false, and so therefore all of his actions could have been taken to secure the sanctity of, not warp, the 2020 election.

From the motion (emphasis mine):

Claims about the integrity of the 2020 Presidential electionincluding claims that the election was rigged and/or stolen, or that fraud and irregularities tainted the outcome in certain States or across the Nation  constitute  core political speech  that is not readily verifiable or falsifiable. Thus, they lie at the heartland of the First Amendments protection, and the federal government may not dictate whether such claims are true or falsenor prosecute the purveyors of the allegedly false views. This is especially true because claims that the 2020 Presidential election was rigged or tainted by fraud and irregularity  do not involve easily verifiable facts.  Such claims require the assessment of mountains of information from which each person will draw competing inferences based on facts as well as their personal, deep-seated political views and presuppositions. They are not readily verifiable or falsifiable.

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Bowman summed up this legal claim: There is, apparently, no such thing as reality.

Trumps premise here is that because he used the bully pulpit to convince large segments of the country of the lie that he won the 2020 election, which he lost, the position is now debatable and any actions he took to turn that big lie into political reality were protected by the First Amendment. The motion states:

This is why Americans opinions on these issues are profoundly divided, very much to this day. The First Amendment does not permit the prosecution to dictate what is true and what is false on such broad, vigorously disputed, politically charged questionsespecially not in the context of a criminal prosecution that effectively seeks to criminalize a political viewpoint shared by over 100 million Americans.

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Bowman summarized this position as a testament to the fact that Trump and the right-wing media complex haveastonishinglymanaged to convince a segment of the population that the crime Trump committed in plain sight was not really a crime. He concluded that this idea that there is no such thing as the truth is not a proposition that the law can admit. At least, I hope not.

Argument 2: Trump Is the Subject of a Witch Hunt Led by Joe Biden

One of Trumps latest motions to dismiss focuses exclusively on the notion that this is a selective prosecution orchestrated by President Joe Biden as a means of taking out a top political rival, i.e., a witch hunt. From the motion:

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This prosecution is also driven by an unconstitutional discriminatory purpose: Bidens publicly stated objective is to use the criminal justice system to incapacitate President Trump, his main political rival and the leading candidate in the upcoming election.

If the case is not dismissed, Trumps legal team is asking that a hearing be held to subject members of the prosecution to direct examination as to whether or not they are witch hunters.

The problem for Trump is that the bar for proving such a political prosecution is  very high.

Trump will have to establish that 1) others similarly situated could have been prosecuted but were not and 2) that the governments selection of him for prosecution was motivated by insidious intent. It is an almost-impossible-to-meet standard, said Norman L. Eisen, a former special counsel to the House Judiciary Committee during Trumps first impeachment.

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To demonstrate Trumps claim of a witch hunt, the defense points to a pair of Trumps Truth Social posts, as well as two mainstream news articles reporting that, behind the scenes, Biden was frustrated that Attorney General Merrick Garland took so long to put Trump in the sights of federal prosecutors. But these articlesand the defenseoffer no evidence that Biden meddled in the prosecution, or even had any contact with Garland over it. (Bidens comments that Trump was a threat to democracy and should be prosecuted, which were anonymously sourced, were reportedly made privately to members of his inner circle. The New York Times article cited by Trumps legal team explicitly says, The president has never communicated his frustrations directly to Mr. Garland.)

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Another comment cited in the motion references Biden as saying, Im making sure he, under legitimate efforts of our Constitution, does not become the next President again. The motion claims that Bidens statement was in reference to prosecuting Trump, but that claim has been fact-checked by the Associated Press as false.

The quoted statements seem pretty plainly to refer to beating Trump in the next election, Bowman said. There is no evidence Biden has interfered in the DOJs decisionmaking.

Argument 3: Trumps Impeachment Means Hes Protected by Double Jeopardy

I covered a version of this argument after Trumps legal team first made it in a previous motion to dismiss earlier this month, but Trumps attorneys make it a primary focus of one of the new motions to dismiss, stating:

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The governmentthrough Congressalready put President Trump on trial once, placing him in jeopardy for an alleged criminal offense arising from the same course of conduct alleged in the indictment. Having failed to obtain a conviction, President Trumps acquittal in the United States Senate must stand, and the prosecution may not seek a retrial in this forum.

As I wrote earlier, this is the opposite of what Trumps legal team stated when he won that acquittal in the Senate. Then, they claimed the appropriate venue for accountability for Jan. 6 was the criminal justice system and not an impeachment of a former president and private citizen. Here, though, Trumps team goes a step further, saying that he has already been tried via impeachment and cant be tried again.

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Related From Slate Sidney Powells Plea Deal Is So, So Bad for Donald Trump Read More

The double-jeopardy claim is comical, noted Bowman, who wrote a 478-page comprehensive history of impeachment. It mischaracterizes the impeachment clauses and rests on the wholly incorrect notion that impeachments are criminal proceedings that trigger double-jeopardy protections.

Argument 4: Trumps Stop the Steal Campaign Did Not Constitute Deceit or Trickery

This one is a little wonky, but the bottom line is that one of the statutes Trump is charged underconspiracy to defraud the United Statesdemands a showing that the criminal action be taken with the purpose of deceit or trickery. Trump argues that he had no such purpose and that, even if he had, theres no way that little old he could have possibly been responsible for convincing anyone of anything during his efforts to strong-arm officials into overturning the election results. As the lawyers write:

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To assert that President Trump, as one voice among countless millions, was somehow capable of unilaterally tricking or deceiving these individuals, who include some of the most informed politicians on the planet, simply by advocating his opinions on this contentious issue, is beyond absurd.

As anyone who might have lived through that period would know, it is not absurd.

Ultimately, the defense goulash rests on the premise that Trump did nothing wrong and is a victim of political persecution, without offering any evidence of either. No serious prosecutor thinks that this will go well for him.

The evidence that has been unearthed during the past year is simply overwhelming, said Marty London, the defense attorney who negotiated Spiro Agnews plea deal with federal prosecutors when Agnew was vice president. The rats are abandoning the sinking ship. And the ship will sink, I believe, and the big rat will go down with it.
Republicans in the House of Representatives finally broke their deadlock on Wednesday. It was the middle of the afternoon. And after three weeks of leaderless chaos, Louisianas Mike Johnson took the gavel to become speaker of the House. If youre wondering, Mike who? Youre not alone. Mike Johnson has been in office less than seven years. And he was the fourth candidate for the job this month. He got shoved into the spotlightfast.

His introductory speech offered a lot to think about. Johnson offered a personal biography, speaking about his dad, who was a firefighter. He talked a lot about God. He said hed been moved to tears on the floor of Congress, overwhelmed by the enormity of his responsibility.

That said, theres a lot in his speech that was bullshit, said Tim Miller, who spent years as a Republican strategist. I called up Miller, who now writes for the Bulwark, to help me read between the lines. The speech included these overwrought comments about the lack of institutional trust and how hes there to regain that. Thats a nice thing to say, I guess. But he didnt do anything to demonstrate that he wants to regain that trust. In fact, Mike Johnsons been somebody thats been actively working to erode trust.

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What Miller means here is that this pious-seeming guy, whos been pretty anonymous until now, has been fighting in the trenches for the conservative movement for a long time, including as the main architect of one of Donald Trumps schemes to flip the 2020 election.

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He was whipping people to try to vote to overturn the election, Miller said. He also was advancing some of the more crazy conspiracy theories, like the Dominion conspiracy that the voting machines were rigged.

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When Rep. Matt Gaetz went on Steve Bannons show to talk about Mike Johnson, he called him MAGA Mike, Miller said. But Johnson would never describe himself that way. Thats why Johnson is the Goldilocks candidate, because his actions are everything that the people that listen to Steve Bannons podcast want. But his affect and his words are collegial.

The House may finally have a speaker, but on Thursdays episode of What Next, I spoke with Miller about how this Goldilocks candidate means the chaos is far from over. Our conversation has been condensed and edited for clarity.

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Mary Harris: Mike Johnsons name first broke through the noise on Tuesday night. Can you just lay out who he is, what he believes? What do we know about his background?

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Tim Miller: Johnson is from Shreveport, northwest Louisiana. In a different era, he would have been pretty much a Rick Santorumtype Republican. Just Christian conservative, cares a lot about social issuesthings in the gays and abortion and religious freedom space. That is his natural place within the party, as part of the socially conservative wing. But as he has gotten into Congress, he has developed pretty good relationships with Steve Scalise and with the Republican leadership. Hes demonstrated hes the kind of guy who can do interviews and not sound like a crazy person, which is an important bar to pass in the Republican Party these days.

Yeah, sounding reasonable seems like his superpower.

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It is. And he also recognized the Trump rise within the party and really was lockstep with Trump.

He caught a shooting star. He would travel with Donald Trump, and then he got very involved in Jan. 6, in the litigation around it.

Yes. He wasnt like Elise Stefanik. He wasnt somebody that flipped and then became an ostentatious defender of Trump. He was more like an operational defender of Trump on the Hill. And Donald Trump likes those kind of people.

Henchmen.

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Someone he feels like he could cast in the role of a henchman. And Mike Johnson really does. And he has a lot of cred on the right because of his advocacy on social issues.

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And we should be clear, he made this constitutional argument against Joe Bidens victory in 2020, and it went all the way to the Supreme Court. And again, making it sound reasonable, saying like, Listen, there was a pandemic, and that meant there were all these changes to how elections worked. And really, the legislature should be making those changes. Thats what it says in the Constitution. But it was these other people, elections officials. And so its like, Meh, those votes dont count the same way. And you can see how hes drawing the lines, even if you disagree with the outcome of what hes saying.

Yeah, I went to the Louisiana GOP convention a couple of months ago now to cover it for the Bulwark. And this is a very MAGA crowd. And Johnsons remarks were very well received. And hes articulate and sounded intelligent. Louie Gohmert had also spoken at this thing; he didnt sound like Louie Gohmert. And so I heard that and I was like, Man, this guy is somebody to watch because hes figured out how to give these guys the right MAGA red meat while also having an acceptable presentation for Face the Nation. That demonstrates why he is somebody they turned to, because this is something that the Republicans desperately need.

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They essentially had two groups in the party: They had the people that were basically old, pre-MAGA Republicans that were pretending on the MAGA stuff in order to survivethat is your Tom Emmers and your McCarthys and your Patrick McHenrys. And then you had the MAGA members that are all just a little too weird to do the Face the Nation thing and to do the ceremonial elements of the speakership that you have to do.

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And Johnson demonstrated that you can be a wild-eyed MAGA extremist who wants to turn the country into a Donald Trump autocracy and talk about it in a way that kind of sounds like youre the captain of a high school debate team and drink milk for lunch and have a podcast about religion with your wife, which he does.

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Mike Johnson didnt really emerge as a potential speaker until a few days back, and even then, he wasnt a front-runner. Initially, Tom Emmer won the partys nomination, but he quickly dropped out once it was clear he wouldnt have the support of the MAGA wing. In the end, there were three candidates left, and Johnson came out on top.

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My sense was that the reason why Johnson was able to elevate above the other two was because among the more normal establishment Republicans, whatever you want to call them, they were more drawn to Johnson. And Johnson had built good, trustworthy relationships with leadership.

Looking at the winners and losers of this speaker fight, its notable to me that Jim Jordan did not win the gavel, but Johnson did. And to me, it made me wonder: What does it mean? Like, what are the issues that are important to Republicans? Because Johnson and Jordan seem very similar when it comes to substance, but just different in style. It made me wonder if this is a party of optics at this point.

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Yeah, thats exactly what I thought. I just wrote about this for the Bulwark. If this was an ideological fight, this would have been over weeks ago. If this was over some policy issue or some ideology, then after McCarthy was deposed, whoever started it and whoever their allies are would have gone to the conference and said, We will only go for a speaker that will do X, Y, and Z. There would be some specific thing that they wanted, but there wasnt anything like that. They had distaste for McCarthy and wanted to demonstrate power over him and wanted to demonstrate that the MAGA elements within the party were the ones that were in control, not the old establishment pre-Trump guys who had been around forever.

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To me, what was so weird was people like Ken Buck, who said they couldnt vote for Jim Jordan because of Jan. 6, but then all the Republicans lined up behind Johnson, who was the architect of election denialism.

So, you have your Kay Grangers and your other appropriator typesTom Kean and these old bulls, if you willand they went against Jordan. And some of that was interpersonal. Jordan, for a long time, had been a thorn in their side. And so some of this was just good old high school cafeteria stuff. But I also think some of it was optics. They did not feel like he was somebody that should be the face of the party. And they feel like Johnson could be. I think that theyre in for a rude awakening. And I think that a lot of folks are going to be regretting their votes

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Its funny because earlier in the week we did a show about the speaker mess in D.C., and I said it was a make-or-break week for Republicans. So Im curious: Which was it? Was it make or break or both?

I think it was make in the short term, but I think that they run a very big risk of break by next year. Let me explain why. Back when I was a Republican, we used to use the specter of Nancy Pelosi to really hurt suburban Democratic candidates and certainly red-state Democratic candidates. Like, so-and-so from Georgia voted 92 percent of the time with a San Francisco liberal who wants to do all these far-left things30-second ads, they write themselves. The Democrats are now going to give the Republicans a taste of their own medicine on this front. And all 18 of those guys in Biden districts and even a handful that are in close Trump districts, now they have voted for and empowered somebody as speaker of the House, as the leader of their party, who was complicit in the effort to overturn the election, supports bans on abortion with no exceptions, has had extremely far-out anti-gay legislationnot just the dont say gay stuff in Florida, but he wanted to allow gay sex to be criminalized. And not to mention a climate change denier, who wants to slash Social Security and Medicare. And I think its going to hurt these guys to have to run and say, OK, Im on board with the Trump reelect and one of his top lieutenants whos this Louisiana extreme evangelical. I dont think that that plays in these California and New York districts that are the reason why Republicans have the House majority right now.

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Lets talk about what happens now. Johnson is saying hes going to move really fast. Hes trying to jam through legislation this week, but hes new to the job. He still doesnt really have a staff. Youve worked behind the scenes with politicians for a long time. Is moving fast possible for Mike Johnson?

It might be possible on a couple of things. I dont know what the deal was on the continuing resolution. Thats the thing to watch. The government shutdown isnt until November, so well see how quickly they can move on that.

Some of the stuff is back to optics. Can he move fast on the bill that says we condemn Hamas? Yeah, I guess. But I think that the thornier elements to this are going to be more complicated than he realizes.

Like, actually funding things.

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Yeah. I saw a list of things, like, Were going to do the farm bill by the end of the year. And its like, OK, brother, I dont know. I feel like an old guy now, saying, Back in my day. But Ive been in D.C. during two farm bills when there were speakers and majorities that were decently effective and did get things passed where that thing got delayed forever because there are all these random contingencies that you dont think of. You know, the sugar people are mad at the corn people. So, this guy with a staff of eight and a bunch of people that are just new, and he has never really had to do anything. Hes not in a competitive district and now hes got to go raise money and do all of this stuff to prepare for 2024. Hes behind the eight ball. Hes got to fund the government. They got to figure out what to do with the Ukraine. I think that its going to be a steeper learning curve than he presented.

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Is Johnson going to be governed by the same rules Kevin McCarthy was haunted by? Like, the rule that any member of the caucus can try to boot him out at any time if he strays from the rules.

He is. But technically, Paul Ryan was also governed by that, and they just never really did it. And so, I think that hes in the sweet spot. Mike Johnson has been a down-the-line right-wing congressman. Theres charts going around of all of the controversial votes (among the Republican conference) since Kevin McCarthy has gotten inthe debt ceiling bill and keeping the government open and gay marriageand Johnson was on the side of the crazies on every single one. So, what reason would they have to overthrow him? And theres no signs that the more moderate folks are going to show the backbone to use the same types of tactics that Matt Gaetz did. So hell probably be clear on that front.

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One of the most important things Johnsons going to have to do is reach spending agreements with the Senate and the president, and hes been so vocal in the past about the need to slash spending on entitlement programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security. What does that mean for these debates and conversations?

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The Ukraine thing is the biggest threat right now. So I think thats issue No. 1.

Because hes voted against Ukraine funding in the past.

Yeah, every time. And theres been no even whispers that that was part of the deal to get him through. I felt this way about McCarthy when he first got in: Everybody gets one pass. I do think that hell get a pass to deal with the budget in a way that can get through the Senate and onto the presidents desk. I dont know if therell be additional wheeling and dealing on that or what thats going to look like exactly. But I think that hell get some leash within the Republican conference to do that. But in the future, I think that were looking at severe, severe brinksmanship on government funding in 2024.

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So youre saying dont be fooled if things look normal for the next couple months.

Thats what Im saying. I think that he will revert to the hard-line ideologue that hes been.

You spent years as a Republican operative. And I thought it would be interesting to talk to you in this moment, because I feel like Ive just lived through these wild swings of Republican identity during this speaker race. Like, literally Tuesday, there was someone who was a speaker-designate who believed the polar opposite of what the current speaker now elected believes, according to votes. I wonder: Do you feel like Johnsons election really points to what the Republican Party is now?

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I do. I dont even know, actually, if Johnson is the final manifestation of what the Republican Party is now. The animating issues for Republicans right now are completely different than they were 20 years ago. Theres some similarities. There obviously is a line from Pat Buchanan to now and a line from Newt Gingrich to now. But if you asked somebody in 1996 in the House Republican Conference, what are the things that animate you? Its smaller government, lower taxes, maybe abortion, strong military. Like, thats the old three-legged stool of the Republican Party. If you ask the new class of Republicans what it is now, its wokeness. It is immigration. It is receding America from the world. And, maybe its also, for some of them, smaller government and abortion. There are some things that overlap, but there have been other issues that are totally changed. And the types of politicians that were those old Chamber of Commerce Republicans that have been hanging on in the House, they are representatives of a time gone by.

Theyre dinosaurs.

Yeah. It was only a matter of time before they were overthrown. And frankly, they lasted longer than I expected.
I did not expect to receive a volley of texts from my mom sharing  six Piers Morgan clips? Last video is the one I told you about. I hope you can watch the other videos, she said. Except we hadnt discussed any videos. I figured she had likely forwarded the message from her friends in the Egyptian Mom corner of WhatsAppbut still, it was weird. Piers Morgan? Really, Mom?

The clips were all from Piers Morgan Uncensored, the show Morgan started after he dramatically walked off the set of Good Morning Britain, at the more respectable ITV network, when his co-host called attention to the racist undertones in his trash[ing] of Meghan Markle. I was admittedly apprehensive to click straight away, particularly given the way he defended Trump in 2017 and rationalized the so-called Muslim ban. Since then, Piers Morgan has never exactly been my favorite journalist. But when I saw who Morgan had had on his show, I got as giddy as my mom.

The guest was Bassem Youssef, a beloved, charming, and gut-splittingly hilarious Egyptian. My family is Egyptian too, and Ive been following Youssef since the 2011 Egyptian revolution. The ex-cardiothoracic surgeon has been dubbed the Egyptian Jon Stewart, but Egyptians understood he was doing much more. He risked a lot to host Al Bernameg (Arabic for The Program) in a country without strong protections for journalists, and has been arrested for making fun of key players in the Egyptian government.

His appearance on Piers Morgan did not disappoint. These Palestinians are so dramatic: Ahh! The Israelis are killing us. But they never die. They always come back. They are very difficult to kill. I know because Im married to one. I tried many times. Couldnt kill her, Youssef said dryly, not smiling. Morgan tried to empathize, saying he understood Youssefs dark humor. But Youssef continued: She uses our kids as human shields. I can never take her out.

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The entire interview is a string of lovely moments in which a real-life Arab person is at the table in conversation with a Western journalist, rather than being spoken about as an ambiguous theoretical. Youssef was able to undermine the Wests tolerance of journalistic dereliction that relies heavily on the Israeli government as a source for undiminishable truths while writing off Arab sources as untrustworthy. He also perfectly but subtly deployed an a7a, a quirky Egyptian curse word. That little slip made the entire clip feel as if it were just for us.

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The interview was viewed nearly 20 million times on YouTube in a week, making it Morgans most-watched, as he proudly boasted on Twitter (now X). But it is far from the only interview Morgan has done with pro-Palestinian voices, or the only one my mother excitedly shared with me. Morgan has already dedicated much of his show to the war, with as many interviews done for the pro-Palestine side as the pro-Israel side. And hes doing this in a moment when its become increasingly risky to call attention to the suffering of Palestinian civilians both in Gaza and in the West Bank. Further, I think he is far less confrontational with those on the Palestinian side, in a way that feels incredibly distinct from how it often plays out in the media, which struggles to adequately acknowledge Palestinian pain.

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A perfect example of this is from the BBC, in which Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zomlot describes losing seven members of his family in an airstrike, after their home was blown up and collapsed onto them, leaving the only survivors, 2-year-old twins, in intensive care. Not a moment after he finishes explaining this horrific situation, the presenter asks him to condemn Hamas. My cousin is not Hamas! the ambassador says. Her husband works for the Palestinian Authority, the opponents of Hamas! These kids, 4 years and 2 years, have nothing to do with Hamas!

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To my surprise, one of the clips my mother shared with me was an interview that very same ambassador didwith Morgan. This clip was far less charming than Youssefs, and frankly heartbreaking, but to Morgans huge credit, he gave Zomlot ample time to make his case, to refute some of the things the Israeli ambassador had also said on Morgans show, and to broadly discuss Western bias against Palestinians. Morgans interviews with Hasan Piker, Cenk Uygur, Mohammed Hijab, and Lowkey continue this trend: Each of them is given time on the program to criticize Morgan and others in the media for what they argue is an exercise in journalistic malpractice. Ive become so accustomed to the casual everyday deployment of dehumanizing language and genocidal rhetoric toward Palestinians in both Western media and politics that its genuinely surprising to see meaningful discussions about the Nakba, the slow annexation and humiliation of Palestine, and even criticisms of the current U.S. policy of giving Israel freedom to take revenge on the entire Gaza Strip for the violence of just Hamas.

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Morgans approach seems simple enough: have on the program as many people from as wide an array of opinions as possible, and let them make their case to him on the air. He gives each guest a considerable amount of airtime too, some stretching beyond 30 minuteswhich may not sound like a lot until you compare it to other segments on broadcast news, which rarely surpass a few minutes before moving on.

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Morgans approach has been getting noticed, and he is happy to take in this praise. His programs X account has already called its coverage of the conflict world-leading, which, I mean, ugh, Im inclined to agree. Responses from pro-Palestinian X accounts, though hesitant, are also showering him with praise.

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Morgan is even flirting with calling to free Palestine. It happened in a tweet of his: The oppression of Palestinian people has been totally unacceptable, and peace will never be possible until they are afforded freedom & equality. But it should be possible to believe that, and to condemn the horrifying terror attacks on Israel on Oct7. Its a surprisingly refreshing take, given that many leaders of the Western world barely acknowledge the existence of an occupation at all, and the list of journalists being fired for making similar remarks is ever expanding.

At a time when social media bubbles often exacerbate polarization and misinformation, Morgans seemingly sincere commitment to fostering meaningful dialogue stands out. After watching the clips my mother shared with me, I doubled back to watch his interviews with pro-Israel voices like Ben Shapiro, Chris Christie, and Ehud Barak. After watching it all, I must say that I felt I had learned a lot. I can better understand why Israelis feel singled outeven if I wouldnt agree that they are. Morgan deserves his flowers for that as well.

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It still feels weird to commend a journalist for doing normal journalism. Platforming a variety of voices is the bare minimum here. But pro-Palestine positions are often mischaracterized or maliciously written off as pro-Hamasbest exemplified by former Israeli Prime Minister Yair Lapids argument that if the international media is objective, it serves Hamas. If it just shows both sides, it serves Hamas. While Morgans style may not be without controversy (many argue that he interrupts one side more than the other), he is still risking a lot in affording pro-Palestinian perspectives any airtime at all.

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Who knew that Piers Morgan would turn out to be the gold standard for how to talk about Israel and Palestine? But if you judge TV hosts more by their guest lists than their own positions, theres really no one better on the subject. Bassem Youssef seemed delighted after their interview too. On Twitter, he asked Morgan to go for round 2, calling him gracious for inviting him on despite having blocked him on the platform. I HATE your views Piers. But talking to you is an absolute joy. Lets do it again, he said. Im excited to see that this Round 2 interview has been scheduled, and is being promoted with a very cheesy, yet very exciting graphic. Ill be tuning in.
Its been a wild three speaker-less weeks in the House of Representatives, as its Republican caucus cycled through three nominees who couldnt get the votes to secure the job.

Ben Mathis-Lilley summed it up thus: Very roughly speaking, whats happened is that McCarthy was unseated for not being extreme enough, Scalise was rejected for being part of the establishment despite his extremity, Jordan was rejected for being too extreme and insufficiently supportive of Scalise, and Emmer was rejected for being too moderate and insufficiently supportive of Jordan.

But apparently the fourth time was the charm! Republicans unanimously got behind Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson on Wednesdaywho was not exactly the spear tip of the attempt to overturn the 2020 election results, but definitely part of the pointy end, Alexander Sammon writes. He explains how the House GOP finally coalesced around a new speaker.

Recommended reading

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If the recent violence in the Middle East has left you feeling a bit out of your depth, youre hardly alone. Weve pooled recommendations from all corners of Slate and pulled together a list of the best books, films, magazine articles, and podcasts to help you understand the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

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Plus: Sen. John Fetterman has expressed some surprising views about Israel in recent weeks, disappointing his most ardent fansand even some of his staffers. Luke Winkie explains whats going on with the senators stance.



Dems, take note

Wait a minutehow is a Democratic governor on track to win reelection in a state Trump took by 26 points? David Faris explains why Andy Beshear is likely to get electedfor a second time!to lead a very red state, and what the national party could stand to learn from his example.

SBF to take the stand

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Sam Bankman-Fried is going to testify at his trial. Really! Nitish Pahwa explains what his defense might be thinking, and how we can potentially expect things to go.

Behind closed doors

Its the most important tech trial in yearsand all the juicy stuff is happening in secret. Scott Nover examines how we got here, and why its such a problem that the public is being shut out.

The right-wing Disney+

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The right-wing Disney+ comes complete with its own takes on Bluey and Mister Rogers. And, uh  trigger warnings? Dan Kois watched all of the Daily Wires new childrens shows so you dont have to.

Cruise control

A major robotaxi company was all over San Franciscoand poised to go national. But California just banned it. David Zipper lays out how the move could affect the whole industry.

Today, Slate  * MANAGES TO FIND NEW PHRASING

 much like Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee has managed to innovate in her (alleged) colorful diatribes to her staff.

Thanks so much for reading! Well see you tomorrow.
When she was sexually assaulted, Bella Poarch was 18, on her first assignment for the U.S.

Navy. Her attacker was someone she knew. She showed up to work with cuts and bruises on her face and neck. At first, Poarchwho is now one of the most popular creators on TikTokdidnt want to report the assault, she recently recalled in an interview on the podcast Call Her Daddy. But then, she thought about the horrifying possibility of other sailors being assaulted. Military authorities didnt believe her at first, she said, putting her through what she called a long process of interrogation until she was able to convince them that the crime had occurred. It was like I was a suspect, and they were interviewing me, she said in the podcast. Like Oh, did this really happen? 

After the experience, Poarch suffered from anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, she recalled to host Alex Cooper. She survived a suicide attempt and was hospitalized. (The Navy has said it cannot comment on specific incidents like this one.)

The suicide rate for women who join the United States military11.7 per 100,000is more than double the national average for women, according to 2020 data from the Department of Defenses annual suicide prevention reports. After leaving the service, according to data from the Department of Veterans Affairs, the rate for these women jumps to 14.7.

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Military suicide rates are influenced by a variety of factors, but research has shown that sexual assault and harassment are undeniable parts of the equation. A 2015 study on suicide mortality and military sexual trauma, or MST, identified MST as a significant independent risk factor for male and female veterans. Nearly 1 in 4 servicewomen report experiencing sexual assault in the military, and more than half report experiencing sexual harassment. Among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans diagnosed with PTSD, 31 percent of women screened positive for MST. Its clear that the military needs to be doing more to protect its service membersand while there is a promising program underway to help the mental health of survivors, its only a small start toward solving much larger systemic issues.

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There are many stories like Poarchs. Earlier this year, two female soldiers were found dead of suspected suicide on the same day at Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood). One had told her family that she was being sexually harassed at work. Three years before, after Spc.

Vanessa Guillen, who was stationed at the same base, was murdered by a fellow service member, an Army investigation had concluded the Texas base was permissive of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Army investigators found Guillen had been sexually harassed before her death, and the soldier accused of her murder, who died by suicide before charges were announced, had been accused of sexual harassment in another case, according to reporting from the New York Times.

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Similarly, two years ago, a female Marine who went by the username Dalina posted a widely shared video on TikTok in which she described being sexually assaulted and the failures of the military to properly hold her alleged attacker responsible. After facing her perpetrator in court, she found out, to her dismay, that he only was getting pushed out with an honorable discharge. But then, even that punishment was changed. The commanding general, she said, with all of the proof and an admission of guilt, decided that they would retain him. Such failures were exactly why, Dalina continued, females in the military fucking kill themselves.

For MST survivors, access to lifesaving mental health care is often lacking. A recent Government Accountability Office study found that the DOD does not properly screen for experiences of sexual assault for those seeking medical care or leaving the armed services (against national guidance on the issue), does not have a system for prioritizing mental health care for sexual assault survivors, and has not figured out a way for service members to access long-term care at the VA confidentially, leading some to not seek treatment at all. Sens. Jon Tester and Lisa Murkowski introduced legislation in 2017, 2019, and 2023 that sought to improve access to mental health care for survivors of MST by expanding their treatment options at the VAbut that legislation has yet to pass. Women and LGBTQ+ service members and veterans face increased barriers to treatment.

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There is, however, one intervention that appears to be gaining a foothold: Intensive Outpatient Programs, or IOPs. The 2019 National Defense Authorization Act called for the military to begin testing these programs for MST survivors; in 2021, they were rolled out at select installations across the country. The 2024 NDAA, still awaiting final passage, would transition this pilot to a full program.

A typical IOP consists of between six and nine (or more) hours a week of treatment, which is often done in cohortsgroups of participants who start and end the treatment process together. Treatment can include physical therapy and rehabilitation, cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive processing therapy, group therapy sessions, and prolonged exposure therapy, among other types of care.

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This years NDAA would expand these programs throughout the Department of Defense and through private-public partnerships, also treating comorbid conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries. The focus on IOPs for sexual trauma builds on existing military IOPs focused on PTSD from combat-related events. I participated in one such combat-related program during my time in the Army; I found the dedicated time and group structure helpfulan individual struggle turned into a collective one, and we supported each other through it. Research into participant outcomes from these programs has found dramatically increased treatment completion rates, clinically significant PTSD symptom reduction, and long-term treatment gains.

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But whether the success of IOPs for combat-related PTSD can transfer to survivors of MST is still an open question. The DOD has not made the results of its pilot program available, and did not respond to my questions about it. This lack of transparency is a consistent issue with the militarys handling of suicide and MST.

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Still, researchers have tried to evaluate IOPs for MST survivors. A RAND Corporation study looked at four IOPs, two run by the DOD and two others run by private entities. It found high rates of treatment completion, though it also identified significant barriers to expanding the treatment, including the referral process for active-duty troops, military leave polices, insurance certification, and privacy.

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Imagine going to outpatient therapy in the middle of your workday, wearing your uniform, processing trauma, and having to go back to work after the hour is up, Kristie Gore, who led the RAND study, said in an email. The RAND researchers called for more DOD analysis into treatment effectiveness and the capacity of the military health care system to support the programs. There need to be enough appealing, accessible, and safe treatment options to meet the many different needs of victims, Gore wrote.

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Related From Slate We Have a Term in the Mental Health World for What Britney Spears Is Doing Read More

Ultimately, IOPs are just one of several urgent interventions needed to address the militarys intersecting mental health and sexual assault crises. Josh Connolly, senior vice president of Protect Our Defenders, highlighted the need for mental health treatment procedures to be available to survivors immediately upon reporting their assaults. Theres also the issue of holding military leaders accountable for MST in their ranks.

After all, expanding mental health treatment alone doesnt target the underlying cultural and systemic issues that brought us here in the first place. In 2021, an independent review commissioned by Congress found that service members had little faith in their senior leaders to address the issue and that victims bear a heavy burden as they attempt to navigate the military mental health and justice systems. Two years later, military branches are still failing to meet many of the recommendations called for in the report, and its unclear when they ever will. The GAO has been calling for some versions of these changes since 2011.

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The military seems to think it has time to address the intersecting crises of sexual trauma and suicide. Stories like Poarchs show it doesnt. Each moment wasted puts more service members at risk. Poarchs attacker was eventually sentenced to four years in prison by a military court, she said in the recent Call Her Daddy interview. In the process, Poarch found out she wasnt his first victim. Honestly I just thought  what if this is not the first time he did it, Poarch said. And it actually wasnt. He did it multiple times, and I guess when I came forward those other women came forward.

State of Mind is a partnership of Slate and Arizona State University that offers a practical look at our mental health systemand how to make it better.
Welcome to Source Notes, a Future Tense column about the internets information ecosystem.

Since the horrific Oct. 7 Hamas attack, which killed over 1,400 Israelismostly civiliansthe worlds attention has turned to the mounting tragedies unfolding in the region. Israel has pledged to crush Hamas as a terrorist group and political entity, and the Israel Defense Forces air attacks on the Gaza Strip have so far killed thousands and displaced an additional 1 million, according to the United Nations.

As the conflict rages on, X (formerly Twitter) has become a hotbed of misinformation. A report by NewsGuard identified seven accounts as blue check-verified misinformation superspreaders that have posted false videos earning millions of views. In April, Xs owner, Elon Musk, abolished the system of verification for established journalists and news organizations, allowing anyone to get a blue check mark for $8 a month. One such blue-check account, by the name of Farida Khan, falsely claimed to be a journalist for Al Jazeera and promised evidence about the cause of the tragic and highly contested bombing of Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza; it turned out that the account had no affiliation with Al Jazeera, but the post and verified account status deceived countless users before X took it down.

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Jimmy Wales, a co-founder of Wikipedia and well-known wiki guy, was one of many voices calling for Musk to take responsibility for his role in the spread of misinformation on X. Fast moving claims and counter claims, and @elonmusk has removed the core features that made it even remotely possible to tell real journalists from fakes, Wales tweeted, referring to the new pay-to-play model for blue check marks. With his usual sarcasm, Musk replied: Please fix wokipedia.

Musk continued lashing out against Wikipedia on Sunday, tweeting, I will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Dickipediaan insult that has received over 17 million views to date. It is worth noting that Musk declined to address Wales specific criticism: Instead of trying to defend his record, Musk chose trolling.

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But as is often the case when Musk tweets, his fans piled on, with one responder claiming that less misinformation is actually spread on X than on Wikipedia. Thats just obviously false, I dont even know where to begin in responding to something so silly, Wales replied. Wikipedia is not perfect. But this is not a competition.

It shouldnt come as a surprise that Wikipedia is a better place to learn about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict than X, TikTok, and other social media platforms are. Some of this is a function of its design: Wikipedia is an editable wiki, meaning that if one user posts wrong information to an article, other users have the technical capability to remove or correct it. As one Wikipedia editor told me, A rebuttal on Wikipedia doesnt exist alongside the misinformationthe rebuttal erases the misinformation. Thats a fundamental difference from X, where a post with flagrant misinformation tends to linger; other users can try to push back in rebuttal posts or with the flailing Community Notes process, but the initial post with false information almost always sticks around and, sadly, attracts more eyeballs than any correction.

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Instead of allowing users to post whatever they want, mostly without consequences, Wikipedias content about Israel and Gaza is collectively curated and pruned by hundreds of editors with the power to check one anothers work. For current events, Wikipedia has become a news aggregator of mainstream media sources, which can be very useful for readers around the world who are looking for a summary based on a breadth of sources.

But although Wikipedia allows a wide variety of sources, its not a free-for-all. The site also retains the seemingly traditional policy of requiring that most its information derive from reliable secondary sources such as newspapers, not primary sources like an individuals social media posts. On the one hand, this might seem like an outdated stance at a time when so many Israelis and Palestinians can document the fighting in real time with their phones. Then again, this old-school rulerequiring vetting and publication from a traditional media outletseems to have shielded Wikipedia from some of the latest social media disinformation campaigns.

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The articles in the Israeli-Palestinian topic area differ from ordinary Wikipedia pages in that the sites volunteer administrators have tagged them with whats known as extended confirmed protection, which means that only editors with more than 30 days of experience and 500-plus edits can change them. This might look like censorship to the self-proclaimed free speech absolutists on X, but its really designed to prevent vandalism by anonymous new accounts. Those who have yet to hit the 500 mark can still suggest changes to experienced usersand many have.

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At press time, the biggest controversy in this area of English Wikipedia is over a proposal to retitle the article about the current war from 2023 Israel-Hamas war to 2023 Israel-Gaza war. The stakes are huge: whichever option Wikipedia chooses will be the title displayed by Google in its search results. Beyond that, the nomenclature could affect how the general public frames the conflict. (Theres historical precedent for thisacademic Heather Ford has written about how the decision to title the Wikipedia article 2011 Egyptian revolution, as opposed to 2011 Egyptian protests, influenced how international media covered the conflict for years.)

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Proponents of the Israel-Gaza war title argue that it is more in line with Wikipedias other coverage of the conflict, that civilians have been injured in Palestine who are not affiliated with Hamas, and that other militant groups besides Hamas have attacked Israel throughout the war. On the other side, supporters of keeping the existing title, Israel-Hamas war, point to Wikipedias common name policy, collecting evidence that Israel-Hamas is more commonly used by media around the world. During the discussions, a few Wikipedia editors have signaled their disapprovalIt is a bit rich to imply by article title that the war is solely with Hamas, one user sniped. But for the most part, this behind-the-scenes editorial discussion has been civil and reasonable. Youd suspect such discussions on the internet to be absolute dumpster fires, but instead they read like heated faculty debates, said one Wikipedian. Frankly, this might be Wikipedia at its best.

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Other Wikipedia articles reflect how the sites editors are struggling to neutrally present the competing claims of warring parties. The page for the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital explosion states that the cause of the explosion is contested. Hamas has claimed that Israel carried out an airstrike on the hospital, while Israel, the United States, France, and Canada have said that their intelligence sources indicate that the cause of the explosion was a failed rocket launch by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad from within Gaza.

Wikipedia editors frequently raise the projects policy of neutral point of view in discussions about labels. For instance, the article about the Supernova Music Festival, where Hamas attacked and killed 260 Israeli civilians, states that the attack was conducted by Hamas militants rather than terrorists, a decision that Wikipedia editors reached based on the sites guidance against contentious labels. On the other hand, editors have decided to refer to what happened at the music festival as a massacre, noting that this specific word commonly appears in mainstream sources.

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For the most part, Wikipedia editors told me that they thought the crowdsourced editing process was working as it should. But there are a few important caveats: Given its audience, Slate has focused its reporting on the English-language version of Wikipedia, yet Hebrew Wikipedia and Arabic Wikipedia each has its own version of these articles, and there can be striking dissonances between them. Moreover, there are numerous English Wikipedia articles about the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict that vary in quality, partly because they have not received as much attention as the current violence has.

Again, the impact of Wikipedias description of this and other current events cannot be overstated. Even those who do not routinely visit Wikipedia proper are indirectly influenced by its contentjournalists often turn to its pages for guidance, A.I. tools like ChatGPT rely on the site for training data, and major tech companies often leverage its information for their decisionmaking. Take, for example, Airbnbs 2018 policy to exclude rental-home listings in Jewish settlements within the West Bank; the company relied on data from Google Maps to distinguish Palestinian and Israeli communities. And how does Google Maps determine which is which? The language thats on Wikipedia.

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Although the discourse on X has devolved into combative binary opposition and fact-free cheerleading for ones team, Wikipedia is emerging as a superior place to learn about the conflict. But even with its higher quality of information, one cant help but feel a certain chill when reading about these disturbing events on Wikipedia. Take, for example, such lines as the Gaza Strip suffering heavy civilian casualties from Israeli bombardment, or a reference to Israeli children who were found tied up and burned alive. The wording by design is clinical, dispassionatethe language of horrors summarized, not personally observed.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
Key highlights of the day: 14:15 Zelensky called for the strengthening of Ukrainian air defense after the damage to the nuclear plant

12.33 Slovakia will stop the supply of military aid to Ukraine

14:15 Zelensky called for the strengthening of Ukrainian air defense after the damage to the nuclear plant

Ukrainian air defenses intercepted a Russian drone over the Khmelnytskyi region on Wednesday night, which then crashed and exploded near a nuclear power plant there. According to Kyiv, transmission lines and several administrative buildings of the nuclear plant were damaged in the attack.

This attack on the nuclear power plant is another reminder to all our partners of how important it is to strengthen Ukraines air defense, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said in an evening video address. At the same time, he judged that Russia probably planned a planned attack on the nuclear plant and that it intends to use the coming cold and lack of energy as a weapon against the civilian population.

According to him, the attack also shows how easily Russia avoids sanctions, as it uses components from the West in the production of drones and missiles, reports the German press agency dpa.

Meanwhile, the IAEA confirmed that the facilities of the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant suffered damage in the attack, but added that the operation of the nuclear plant was not threatened, reports the British BBC.

This incident once again highlights the extremely precarious situation in the field of nuclear safety in Ukraine, which will continue as long as this tragic war lasts, warned IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.

The Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant has two reactors, but only one of them is in operation, as the operation of the second one was stopped in August.

12.33 Slovakia will stop the supply of military aid to Ukraine

The new Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico announced today that the government is suspending the delivery of military aid to Ukraine, but will continue to provide humanitarian aid to its war-torn neighbor.

I do not support the supply of military aid to Ukraine. The immediate cessation of military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine, Fico emphasized, adding that the EU should change from a weapons supplier to a peacekeeper.

Fico, who will attend the EU summit in Brussels today, also expressed his opposition to sanctions against Russia. I will not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyzes of their impact on Slovakia. If the sanctions will harm us, as most sanctions do, I see no reason to support them, he added.













News

Slovakia got a new government led by Robert Fico

Russia has already responded to the Slovak Prime Ministers statements. Slovakia did not have such a large share of the supply of weapons, so this will hardly affect the entire process, the Kremlin spokesman explained to journalists when asked about Bratislavas decision Dmitry Peskov.

Fico already announced before the elections that Slovakia would limit aid to Ukraine, which it has so far strongly supported, in the event of his assuming the position of head of government. In one of his first statements after the announcement of the election results, he also said that Slovakia and Slovaks have bigger problems than dealing with Ukraine.

He repeatedly emphasized that Ukraine is a great tragedy for everyone, and called for peace negotiations, because continuing killing will not benefit anyone.















News

Russia has reportedly begun recruiting women for the war in Ukraine

His social democratic party Smer-SSD won the elections at the end of September, winning 23 percent of the vote. Fico then formed a coalition together with the social democratic party Glas-SD and the pro-Russian Slovak National Party (SNS). The coalition has a majority of 79 MPs in the 150-member parliament.
By Lee Yeon-woo

"People around me say victims are not at fault. However, we find ourselves forced out onto the streets," sobbed a Chinese woman who had fallen victim to a rental scam during a public hearing hosted by the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), Sunday.

She has been living in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, with her husband and child for the past six years.

"We've approached various institutions, but they told us we couldn't receive support because we are foreign nationals," she said. "Many other foreign nationals have also been scammed by Jeong's family. However, they cannot respond adequately due to a lack of information. Please prevent (victims like) us, who also have been harmed but haven't been rescued because we are foreign nationals."

On Oct. 17, a suspect, identified only by his surname, Jeong, along with his wife and son were accused of defrauding 394 tenants to the tune of 47.5 billion won ($34.9 million) through "jeonse" contracts in Gyeonggi Province.

Jeonse refers to a unique Korean rental system where landlords receive a substantial returnable deposit instead of monthly rent. Lately, a growing number of scammers have been buying houses with minimal upfront money by leveraging a series of jeonse contracts and then refusing to return the deposits at the end of the lease period.

Many foreign nationals have been caught up in this scheme. According to a center in Gyeonggi Province that supports the victims of rental scams, 14 foreign nationals had reported their cases as of Wednesday. Considering the foreign nationals who may not yet be aware of their losses, the actual number of foreign victims is expected to rise.

Despite the government announcing a series of measures to support jeonse fraud victims, foreign nationals have been excluded from the support available.

The special bill assisting jeonse victims provides them with interest-free loans for up to 10 years to cover the deposits they've made. If their deposit amount surpasses 55 million won, they are offered low-interest loans. In addition, some local governments provide emergency housing for victims who pass a screening process. The bill also includes support covering 70 percent of legal fees if tenants opt to buy homes that are auctioned.

However, low interest loan products offered by state-run housing corporations, including Korea Housing & Urban Guarantee Corp. and Korea Housing Finance Corp., are "in principle," not available to foreign nationals.

Securing emergency housing is also challenging. The number of available units is limited, and the screening process is stringent, even for Korean nationals. Furthermore, foreign nationals are not eligible to apply for emergency welfare benefits aimed at low-income earners.

"Even after they are recognized as 'victims' under the special bill, it doesn't address all the issues. Their loan interest would decrease slightly, and they might be permitted to stay in public housing for a longer duration. Yet, even these measures exclude foreign nationals," said Kwon Ji-woong, the head of a center backed by the DPK that assists jeonse victims.

"This issue should not revolve around distinguishing between nationals and foreigners. Given that this is an obvious injustice that occurred while they were residing here, I believe support should be offered without differentiating between Korean and foreign nationals."
In 2023, small business owners face various risks that necessitate the protection of reliable insurance coverage. Choosing the best small business insurance provider can make a significant difference in safeguarding the interests of these entrepreneurs.

This article highlights the top insurance companies specializing in small business coverage to aid in this decision-making process. Businesses can confidently select the best small business insurance provider for their specific needs by evaluating their comprehensive policies, competitive pricing, and exceptional customer service.

What is the Best Small Business Insurance Company in 2023?

Next is the best small business insurance company in 2023, offering affordable, customizable coverage entirely online. With a quick 10-minute application, live certificate of insurance, and U.S.-based advisor option, they prioritize convenience and personalization.

Drive Traffic to Your Website Sell Your Business Discover the Zoho Ecosystem Advertise Your Business Here

Next has received positive customer feedback and offers up to a 10% discount for bundled policies. Their fully-digital experience allows for easy management, claims filing, and support. For affordable, flexible, and hassle-free small business insurance, choose Next today and confidently protect your business.

Our Methodology to Identify the Best Small Business Insurance Companies

In the unpredictable journey of entrepreneurship, small business insurance stands as a bulwark against unforeseen financial storms. Choosing the right insurance company is akin to selecting a business partner, one thats there for you in times of crisis.

As you navigate through the plethora of options, we illuminate the critical aspects that need your attention when making this pivotal decision.

Small Business Deals

Comprehensive Coverage (9/10)

Insurance needs vary from business to business, but a provider that offers a wide range of coverage options can safeguard against multiple forms of risk. From general liability to workers compensation, property insurance, and beyond, comprehensive coverage ensures your businesss unique vulnerabilities are addressed.

Cost Efficiency (8/10)

Balancing coverage and cost is crucial in selecting an insurance provider. Look for competitive pricing, but be cautious of low premiums that compromise the extent or effectiveness of coverage. Its essential to find a plan that aligns with your budget without skimping on critical protection.

Customization of Policies (10/10)

Your business is unique, and your insurance policy should reflect that. The best insurers offer customizable plans that can be tailored to the specific risks and needs of your business, ensuring youre not paying for unnecessary coverage or missing out on key protective measures.

Claim Process Efficiency (9/10)

When a crisis hits, the last thing you need is a prolonged, convoluted claim process. Companies that guarantee a smooth, transparent, and efficient filing proceduresupported by positive customer testimonialsshould be high on your list.

Customer Service (8/10)

Superior customer support transforms trying times into manageable situations. Opt for companies known for their customer service, particularly those that offer various communication channels (phone, email, online chat) and provide prompt, reliable, and empathetic responses.

Financial Stability (10/10)

The insurers financial health is paramount. You need assurance that your chosen provider can meet its financial obligations, especially in paying out claims. Companies with high ratings from financial analysis institutions tend to offer more solidity and peace of mind.

Experience in the Industry (9/10)

Experienced insurers are more adept at understanding your risks and providing the appropriate coverage. Those with a proven track record in serving businesses similar to yours are likely to offer a product that fits your needs and industry-specific support.

Educational Resources (7/10)

Especially for new entrepreneurs, educational resources can be incredibly beneficial. Insurance companies that offer guides, tutorials, webinars, or consultations can help you understand your coverage options and legal requirements, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Positive Customer Reviews and Testimonials (8/10)

Feedback from other small business owners can provide real insight into what you can expect from an insurer. Positive reviews and testimonials, especially those that detail personal experiences with claims or customer service, can be a deciding factor in your choice.

Selecting the ideal insurance partner is about acknowledging the unpredictability of the business world and preparing accordingly. Your focus should be on growing and nurturing your business, secure in the knowledge that you have a safety net should adversity strike.

The Best Small Business Insurance Companies of 2023

When it comes to finding the best small business insurance, its important to consider reputable insurance companies that offer comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service. In this section, we highlight some of the top small business insurance providers of 2023, helping you make an informed decision to protect your businesss interests.

1. Next

Rating: 5 out of 5

NEXT is an online platform that offers small business insurance tailored to different business structures. They provide coverage options such as general liability, professional liability, workers compensation, commercial auto, tools and equipment, commercial property, and business owners policy.

Their streamlined process allows businesses to get a customized insurance quote online quickly and easily, with easy monthly payments and the option to speak with licensed advisors.

NEXT Pros

Live certificate of insurance for easy sharing.

Customizable business insurance policies with various coverages.

100% online quote and application process with available assistance.

Fewer commercial property and business auto insurance complaints to state regulators than expected for a company of its size.

Up to 10% discount for purchasing multiple policies.

Digital certificate of insurance for easy access and sharing.

NEXT Cons

Limited coverage options for specialized needs.

Lack of key person insurance coverage.

Inconvenience for traditional business owners who prefer paper records due to the digital claim process.

2. Travelers

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Travelers Insurance provides a wide range of commercial insurance options to help businesses in various industries identify and reduce risks. They offer coverage for commercial auto, cyber liability, general liability, management and professional liability, property, small business owners, surety bonds, and workers compensation.

Travelers specializes in industry-specific coverage for agriculture, construction, education, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, transportation, and more. They provide expertise, fast claim services, and a solid financial strength rating.

Travelers Pros

Wide range of coverages, including specialized options like key person insurance and surety bonds.

Fewer complaints for commercial property and auto insurance compared to peers.

Online portal for accessing certificates of insurance and tracking claims.

Online portal for all parties involved in workers comp claims.

Nationwide coverage in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C.

Extensive risk management resources are available.

Travelers Cons

Limited convenience with no online quotes available for business policies.

The inconvenience of having to contact your agent for various policy management tasks.

Dependency on independent agents for obtaining quotes and purchasing policies.

Lack of online quoting options specifically for business insurance.

Uncertainty due to mixed online reviews and the absence of BBB accreditation.

3. Allstate

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Allstate offers tailored business insurance solutions to protect small businesses from financial setbacks. Their commercial auto insurance covers various industries, including contractors, doctors, and lawyers. They provide custom protection for sectors like accounting, medical offices, and retailers.

Allstate processes insurance claims quickly and covers risks such as theft, fire, vandalism, and equipment breakdown. Business owners can explore coverage options and get a fast quote for business insurance.

Allstate Pros

Diverse coverage for business insurance, including industry-specific policies.

Encompassing retailers, food and beverage, medical, photography, and more.

Insurance is available for home-based small businesses.

Commercial auto insurance for various industries.

A nationwide network of agents for personalized assistance in finding the right coverage.

Allstate Cons

Limited coverage options for specific types of businesses.

Inconsistent availability of coverage across different states.

The inconvenience of having to file claims over the phone instead of online.

Lack of flexibility to purchase a general liability policy.

Below-average customer service experience.

4. Chubb

Rating: 4 out of 5

Chubb is a global leader in tailored property and casualty insurance for businesses of all sizes. Their operations in 54 countries provide personalized service and problem-solving for diverse industries. Chubbs global reach and extensive distribution capabilities ensure comprehensive coverage.

Known for its financial strength, exceptional service, and underwriting excellence, Chubb aims to protect businesses, individuals, and their possessions. They embrace a culture of precision and digital transformation to stay compelling in the modern age.

Chubb Pros

Wide range of policies available, catering to diverse business needs.

Convenient online purchasing option for certain policies.

Supports businesses with revenue up to $30 million.

Minimal complaints compared to Chubbs market share.

Highest financial strength rating, ensuring stability and security.

Extensive customization options are available to tailor the coverage to specific needs.

Chubb Cons

Certificates of insurance may not be readily available, requiring manual requests through an online portal.

Phone support is exclusive to direct policy purchasers; agent-supported policyholders lack this option and no live chat alternative exists.

The website lacks a transparent pricing structure, making it difficult to assess costs upfront.

A live chat feature is absent, limiting instant assistance and communication with Chubb representatives.

Some businesses might consider Chubbs coverage options overly comprehensive and costly for their specific requirements.

5. Hiscox

Rating: 4 out of 5

Hiscox is a leading small business insurer, offering fast and affordable coverage for over 500,000 small businesses. They provide tailored insurance policies for various professions, including general liability, professional liability, business owners policy, cyber security, short-term liability, medical malpractice, workers compensation, and more.

With a history dating back to 1901, Hiscox has the expertise and experience to support businesses and protect against risks. They offer simple and fast quotes, instant coverage, and quick claims processing. Hiscox encourages courage in its customers and aims to inspire and protect businesses as they grow.

Hiscox Pros

Extensive coverage options tailored to meet diverse business needs.

Convenient and quick online quoting and purchasing process.

Flexibility to connect with knowledgeable agents or brokers, ensuring personalized assistance.

Customizable policies designed specifically for independent contractors.

Flexible monthly payment options without additional fees.

Specialized short-term liability insurance to address temporary business requirements.

Hiscox Cons

Limited coverage options for your business.

Requires working with multiple providers for comprehensive protection.

Lacks a local agent network for personalized support.

Restricted availability of business owners policies to companies with 10 or fewer employees.

Available in all states except Alaska

6. State Farm

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

State Farm provides tailored business insurance to meet unique needs. They offer a range of coverages to keep businesses safe, including commercial auto insurance, liability umbrella policies, workers compensation, surety & fidelity bonds, and builders risk insurance.

Their Business Owners Policy (BOP) combines liability and property coverages. State Farm offers customizable insurance and its mission is to help people manage risks, recover from unexpected events, and realize their dreams.

State Farm Pros

Flexible options for customizing business owners policies to suit specific coverage needs.

Industry-specific packages are available, offering specialized coverage for various professions.

Professional liability insurance can be seamlessly added to business owners policies for comprehensive protection.

State Farm offers retirement savings vehicles, ensuring long-term financial security for both business owners and employees.

Consistently recognized as a top-ranked company by J.D. Power, reflecting high customer satisfaction and service quality.

State Farm Cons

State Farm may not offer specific coverage options or tailored packages for your industrys unique risks, resulting in a lack of comprehensive protection.

Their business insurance premiums can be relatively higher than competitors, potentially increasing overall insurance costs.

The online tools for managing your policies may lack functionality compared to other insurers, limiting your digital experience.

State Farms focus on personal insurance may result in a lack of expertise for specialized industries or niche businesses.

Customer service for their business insurance has mixed reviews, with complaints about slow claims processing and unresponsive agents.

Insurance Company Rating Coverage Options Pros Cons Next 5 out of 5 General liability, professional liability, workers' compensation, commercial auto, tools and equipment, commercial property, business owner's policy - Streamlined online platform for quick customized quotes. - 10% discount for multiple policies. - Digital certificate of insurance. - Limited coverage options for specialized needs. - No key person insurance coverage. - Inconvenience for traditional business owners preferring paper records. Travelers 4.5 out of 5 Commercial auto, cyber liability, general liability, management and professional liability, property, small business owners, surety bonds, workers' compensation - Specialized coverage for various industries. - Nationwide coverage and fast claim services. - Extensive risk management resources. - No online quotes available for business policies. - Dependency on agents for policy management. - Mixed online reviews and lack of BBB accreditation. Allstate 4.5 out of 5 Commercial auto, custom protection for various sectors - Tailored coverage for specific businesses. - Quick claim processing and protection against various risks. - Limited coverage options for specific businesses. - Inconsistent availability across states. - Claim filing over the phone instead of online. Chubb 4 out of 5 Wide range of policies, global reach - Comprehensive coverage and customization options. - High financial strength rating. - Certificates of insurance may not be readily available. - Limited phone support for some policyholders. - Lack of transparent pricing structure. Hiscox 4 out of 5 General liability, professional liability, business owners' policy, cyber security, short-term liability, medical malpractice, workers' compensation - Extensive coverage options with quick online quoting. - Flexible monthly payment options. - Specialized short-term liability insurance. - Limited coverage options for specific businesses. - Working with multiple providers for comprehensive protection. - Restricted availability of business owner's policies. State Farm 3.5 out of 5 Commercial auto insurance, liability umbrella policies, workers' compensation, surety & fidelity bonds, builders risk insurance - Customizable business owners' policies. - Industry-specific packages available. - Ability to add professional liability seamlessly. - Retirement savings options for long-term financial security. - High customer satisfaction and service quality. - Limited coverage options for certain industries. - Relatively higher premiums compared to competitors. - Limited digital tools for policy management. - Focus on personal insurance may limit expertise for specialized industries. - Mixed reviews for customer service.

What Type of Insurance Does a Small Business Need?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the type of business insurance coverage a small business needs depends on the specific industry and risks involved. However, there are some types of commercial insurance you may need such as:

General liability insurance

This insurance is important for small businesses as it protects against third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and advertising mistakes. It safeguards businesses from potential legal liabilities and covers costs related to lawsuits, settlements, and medical expenses.

Professional liability insurance

Also known as errors and omissions insurance, professional liability coverage is essential for businesses that provide professional services. It protects against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions that may result in financial loss for clients. This business liability insurance covers legal expenses and damages incurred due to professional mistakes.

Commercial property insurance

Small businesses need business property insurance to protect their physical assets, including buildings, equipment, inventory, and furniture, from perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. This property coverage covers repair or replacement costs, ensuring continuity of operations and minimizing financial losses.

Commercial auto insurance

Commercial auto insurance is necessary for businesses that use vehicles for business purposes. It covers vehicles used for business operations, including accidents, theft, vandalism, and liability for bodily injury or property damage caused by business-owned vehicles.

Cyber insurance

In the digital age, small businesses must safeguard against cyber threats. Cyber insurance, or data breach insurance, covers financial losses resulting from data breaches, cyberattacks, or other malicious activities. It helps businesses manage the costs of forensic investigations, customer notification, legal fees, and data recovery.

Workers compensation insurance

Required by law in many jurisdictions, workers compensation insurance protects employees in case of work-related injuries or illnesses. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for injured or sick employees, reducing the financial strain on both the business and the employee.

Business interruption insurance

This business income insurance coverage is important for small businesses that rely heavily on physical locations for their operations. Business interruption insurance is a type of business hazard insurance that compensates for lost income and ongoing expenses if a covered event, such as fire or natural disaster, forces the business to suspend operations temporarily. It helps businesses stay afloat during recovery and ensures minimal disruption to cash flow.

What Insurance Coverage to Get

Determining the appropriate small business insurance coverage is important for protecting your business from potential risks.

Key considerations include general liability insurance to cover third-party claims, professional liability insurance for service providers, commercial property insurance or business renters insurance to safeguard physical assets, commercial auto insurance for business-owned vehicles, cyber insurance for digital threats, workers compensation insurance for employee protection, and insurance for natural disasters or business interruption insurance to mitigate income loss during disruptions.

Assess your specific needs to ensure comprehensive coverage that safeguards your business and financial stability.

How to Choose the Best Companies for Small Business Insurance

When selecting the best companies for small business insurance, several key factors should guide your decision. Evaluating these aspects will help you make an informed choice. Here are the five best ways to choose the best company for small business insurance:

Reputation: A companys reputation speaks volumes about its reliability and service quality. Look for insurance providers with a long-standing presence in the industry and a history of serving small businesses effectively. Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of other business owners with the company. Positive feedback and high ratings indicate a trustworthy and customer-centric insurer, while consistent negative reviews might be a red flag.

A companys reputation speaks volumes about its reliability and service quality. Look for insurance providers with a long-standing presence in the industry and a history of serving small businesses effectively. Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the experiences of other business owners with the company. Positive feedback and high ratings indicate a trustworthy and customer-centric insurer, while consistent negative reviews might be a red flag. Coverage Options: An excellent insurance company should offer a diverse range of coverage options tailored to meet the specific needs of various small businesses. Look for policies that address the unique risks associated with your industry and business operations. For example, if you run a construction business, ensure the insurer provides coverage for potential property damage, workers injuries, and liability arising from construction-related activities. A comprehensive insurance plan helps protect your business from unforeseen events and potential financial losses.

An excellent insurance company should offer a diverse range of coverage options tailored to meet the specific needs of various small businesses. Look for policies that address the unique risks associated with your industry and business operations. For example, if you run a construction business, ensure the insurer provides coverage for potential property damage, workers injuries, and liability arising from construction-related activities. A comprehensive insurance plan helps protect your business from unforeseen events and potential financial losses. Pricing: While competitive pricing is essential, its crucial to strike a balance between cost and coverage. Low premiums might indicate less comprehensive coverage, leaving your business vulnerable to risks. Request quotes from multiple insurers and carefully review what each policy includes and excludes. Consider the overall value and benefits provided by each insurance company, rather than solely focusing on the cheapest option.

While competitive pricing is essential, its crucial to strike a balance between cost and coverage. Low premiums might indicate less comprehensive coverage, leaving your business vulnerable to risks. Request quotes from multiple insurers and carefully review what each policy includes and excludes. Consider the overall value and benefits provided by each insurance company, rather than solely focusing on the cheapest option. Customer Service: Customer service is a significant aspect of any insurance experience. Choose a company that values excellent customer support and is easily accessible. Prompt and knowledgeable assistance can make a significant difference when filing claims or seeking guidance on policy matters. Read reviews to gain insight into the insurers responsiveness and how they handle customer inquiries and concerns. A reliable insurer should have a dedicated support team ready to assist you whenever needed.

Customer service is a significant aspect of any insurance experience. Choose a company that values excellent customer support and is easily accessible. Prompt and knowledgeable assistance can make a significant difference when filing claims or seeking guidance on policy matters. Read reviews to gain insight into the insurers responsiveness and how they handle customer inquiries and concerns. A reliable insurer should have a dedicated support team ready to assist you whenever needed. Financial Stability: The financial stability of an insurance company is critical. You want an insurer that can meet its financial obligations, especially when it comes to settling claims promptly. Independent rating agencies such as A.M. Best, Standard & Poors, and Moodys assess insurers financial strength. Look for companies with high ratings as they are more likely to handle claims efficiently and provide the necessary support during challenging times for your business.

In conclusion, thoroughly researching and considering these five factors will empower you to choose the best small business insurance company that aligns with your specific needs and offers reliable protection for your business. Remember that insurance is an essential investment in your businesss long-term security, and selecting the right provider can offer peace of mind knowing that your business is adequately protected.

How Much Does Small Business Insurance Cost?

How much does business insurance cost? Small business insurance costs vary depending on several factors, including the type of coverage, industry, business size, and location. Generally, premiums are influenced by risk factors specific to the business.

Its advisable to obtain quotes from multiple insurance providers to compare prices and find a policy that offers adequate coverage at a competitive rate. Check out the small business insurance FAQ below for answers to more insurance questions for your business.

What is small-business insurance?

Small-business insurance refers to a range of insurance policies designed to protect small businesses from various risks and liabilities. It typically includes coverage options such as general liability, professional liability, property insurance, workers compensation insurance, and more.

Small-business insurance provides financial protection for property damage, lawsuits, injuries, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Do I need small-business insurance?

Yes, small-business insurance is crucial for protecting your business from potential risks. It helps safeguard against liability claims, property damage, lawsuits, and other unforeseen events that could financially cripple your business.

Even a single incident can significantly impact a small business, making insurance coverage essential for its survival and continued operations.

What does business insurance cover?

Many different types of business insurance cover a wide range of risks and liabilities faced by businesses. It typically includes coverage for property damage, bodily injury, advertising mistakes, professional errors, data breaches, employee injuries, and business interruptions.

The specific coverage depends on the policy type and the business needs. It is important to review policy details and exclusions with your insurance provider. Umbrella insurance may cover things that are excluded under other policies.

What does business insurance exclude?

While business insurance provides extensive coverage, certain exclusions may apply. These exclusions vary depending on the policy and insurance provider. Common exclusions can include intentional acts, criminal activities, pollution-related damages, and certain high-risk activities.

It is crucial to review your policy carefully and consult with your insurance provider to understand the specific exclusions and any additional coverage that may be required.

Do I need small business insurance if I work from home?

Yes, even if you operate your business from home, you may still need small business insurance. Homeowners insurance typically does not provide sufficient coverage for business-related risks.

Small business insurance can protect your business assets and liabilities, and provide coverage for home-based business operations.

Does small business insurance cover remote workers?

Yes, small business insurance policies can often provide coverage for remote workers. However, the specific coverage may vary depending on the policy and insurance provider.

Its important to discuss your business structure and remote work arrangements with your insurance provider to ensure appropriate coverage for remote employees.

How do I save money on a small business insurance policy?

Consider bundling multiple policies with the same insurance provider to save money on a small business insurance policy.

Implement risk management practices, maintain a safe work environment, and invest in training programs to reduce claims and demonstrate your commitment to risk mitigation.

Regularly review and compare insurance quotes to ensure you get the best coverage at a competitive price.

Do I need business insurance for an LLC?

While requirements may vary based on jurisdiction, it is generally recommended for LLCs to have business insurance.

Even though an LLC structure provides personal liability protection, there are many business insurance benefits for having an additional layer of protection for the assets and operations of the LLC. Business insurance for an LLC helps safeguard against potential risks and liabilities that could impact the business and its owners.

What is the best LLC insurance company?

Determining the best LLC insurance company depends on various factors, including the specific needs of your business, coverage options, pricing, customer service, and financial stability.

Its essential to research and compare insurance providers, read reviews, and consider factors important to your business before selecting the best LLC insurance company.

What is the cheapest small business insurance?

The cost of small business insurance can vary significantly depending on factors such as the size of the business, industry, coverage needs, and location. While it is difficult to pinpoint the cheapest small business insurance provider universally, there are ways to find affordable coverage.

To secure cost-effective insurance plans, comparing quotes from multiple insurance companies, assessing the coverage options offered, considering bundling policies, implementing risk management strategies, and maintaining a favorable claims history is advisable. Check out the list above for where to buy small business insurance online.
Whether youre planning a weekend road trip, need an economy-sized vehicle for an upcoming business meeting, or just need to get around for a few days in a different city, the best car rental apps can help.

In this article, well take a look at 11 of the best car rental app options available in 2023 that will make sure your travels go smoothly and you arrive at your destination safely. Lets get started!

What is the Best Car Rental App?

Turo is a leading car rental app in 2023, providing services in 56 countries and over 5,000 cities. With a wide selection of car models, easy communication with hosts, and the option to earn money by renting your own car, Turo stands out in the market. Renters benefit from affordable options, insurance savings, under-25 rental options, and a seamless pick-up/drop-off process. To get started, download the Turo app for Android and iOS.

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Our Methodology: The Best Car Rental Apps

In the digital age, where convenience is king, car rental companies have shifted gears, creating user-friendly applications to bring hassle-free rental experiences to your fingertips. For entrepreneurs eyeing opportunities in the travel and transportation sectors, understanding what separates the best car rental apps from the rest is crucial. Below, we dissect the features and functionalities that should command your attention.

User Experience (9/10)

A seamless user experience is the backbone of top-rated apps. The ease with which customers can navigate the app affects overall satisfaction and return usage. From an intuitive interface to quick loading times, every step should be a breeze.

Variety of Options (8/10)

Customers crave choices. The app should offer a broad range of vehicles that cater to diverse needs, preferences, and budgets. Whether a user needs a budget hatchback or a luxury sedan, availability is key to customer retention.

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Transparent Pricing (10/10)

Nobody likes hidden charges. The best apps ensure all costs are transparently communicated upfront. This includes not just the rental fee, but also any insurance costs, taxes, or additional charges that may apply.

Geolocation Features (7/10)

The ability to locate nearby rental facilities or available cars in real-time is a game-changer for spontaneous plans and emergencies. Geo-tagging features also assist in easy navigation and speedy vehicle pick-up and return processes.

Customer Support (8/10)

Immediate assistance or query resolution can drastically improve user experience. Effective customer support, be it through in-app chats, hotlines, or email, reflects the apps commitment to its users.

Flexibility in Booking and Cancellation (7/10)

Life is unpredictable, and the best apps understand this. A customer-friendly cancellation and modification policy provide users with much-needed flexibility, enhancing overall trust and reliability in the service.

Loyalty Programs and Discounts (6/10)

Who doesnt love a good deal? Apps that offer loyalty programs, promotional discounts, or partnership deals not only ensure customer loyalty but also attract first-time users looking to save a buck.

Security and Privacy Measures (9/10)

In a world where data breaches are frequent, users want assurance that their personal information is safe. Robust security protocols and clear privacy policies are non-negotiable features of a reputable app.

Recognizing the components that define the leaders in the car rental app market is fundamental. As entrepreneurs, aligning with platforms that embody these essential traits presents a trajectory poised for success, reflecting customer preferences and modern-day demands.

The 11 Best Car Rental Apps to Consider

With so many options out there it can be overwhelming to find the right car rental app. Heres a guide to the 11 best car rental apps that you should consider. Start exploring now and start your journey with confidence.

1. Getaround App

Getaround revolutionizes transportation with its innovative car-sharing platform. Through its website, drivers seeking the perfect vehicle can easily locate and reserve vehicles from private car owners who are willing to share their rides for a fee. As of 2019, Getaround had garnered a substantial following, boasting 5 million users and a fleet of 20,000 shared cars globally.

Key Features:

Quick and easy signup process

Verification speeds up access to car browsing

Rent cars, trucks, convertibles, or vans for hours or days

Getaround Connect technology helps locate and unlock cars via phone

Pros:

Quick and simple

Positive impact on the environment

Safe, with insurance and driving record checks included

Cons:

Can be more costly than competitors

Higher chance of user and owner dissatisfaction

Limited locations available

Download the Getaround app for Android and iOS.

2. Turo

Turo lets you skip the rental car counter with the worlds largest peer-to-peer car-sharing platform. With Turo, you can even start your own car-sharing business. Turo takes pride in its commitment to sustainability, offsetting 100% of its estimated global carbon emissions. This means that as you utilize their platform to grow your scalable car-sharing business or fulfill your travel aspirations, you can do so with peace of mind knowing that Turo has taken responsibility for its impact on the environment.

Key Features:

Turo offers car rental services in 56 countries and over 5,000 cities

Filter through delivery options and car features

Choose from 800+ car models

Easily communicate with the host through the app

Earn money as a car owner by sharing your car on Turo

Pros:

Affordable car rental options

Insurance cost savings

Under 25 rental options

Smooth pick-up/drop-off process

Connect with local renters

Helpful rental reviews

Cons:

Limited one-way rental options

Possibility of pick-up/drop-off inconvenience

Download the Turo app for Android and iOS.

3. Zipcar

Zipcar is available in the US, UK, Canada, Costa Rica, Iceland, Turkey, and Taiwan. Find the perfect car using their app, which will give you access to 3,000+ cars and vans throughout the globe.

Key Features:

Hourly or daily Zipcar reservation

Wide range of vehicle options (sedans, hybrids, vans, etc.)

Sort cars based on availability, make, and model

View future reservations

Get directions to your Zipcar

Locate your reserved Zipcar by honking its horn

Pros:

Wide range of affordable car options

Cars are available 24/7 with constant access

Insurance coverage included in the rental fee

Toll passes and gas cards are provided in the car

No need to use your personal credit card for gas

Cons:

Risk of unpleasant odors (e.g. smoke, body odor)

No guarantee of compliance with cleaning rules

Need to fill up the car before returning, with no guarantee of the previous driver doing so

Additional fees can accumulate with poor mileage tracking

Long road trips may be better served by traditional car rental companies with unlimited daily rates

Download the Zipcar app for Android and iOS.

4. carSHAiR

carSHAIR created a car-sharing platform that goes beyond just driving and ownership. The goal was to empower car owners, promote financial literacy, and give back to the community. They also donate a portion of their profits to charity.

Key Features:

Get access to a vehicle when and where you need it

Use your parked car to earn money through car sharing with carSHAiR

carSHAiR simplifies the process of turning your car into a source of passive income

As a carSHAiR member, you have access to a community of verified members and secure authentication

carSHAiR markets your car for you, making it easier for you to earn passive income

Get help and support whenever you need it with carSHAiRs 24/7 live concierge support

Pros:

User-friendly app

Accessible for non-tech savvy individuals

Exceptional customer support

Cons:

Challenging photo upload process

5 business days to receive payment for a completed trip

Long processing time for reimbursement requests

Only available in Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Dallas, and Atlanta

Download the carSHAiR app for Android and iOS.

5. Lyft Rentals

Lyft Rentals simplifies car rental with no paperwork or counter wait. Rent a car for any purpose, be it a weekend trip, business travel, or errands, with the flexibility offered by Lyft Rentals.

Key Features:

Discount for multi-day trips and new users

Free car upgrades

Automatic local gas rate charging without added fees

All within the Lyft app

Pros:

Easy-to-use app for both Android and iOS users

Variety of vehicle options from private owners and Sixt partnership

Free Lyft credit to the pickup location

Free car accessories like car seats and ski racks

Unlimited mileage

Cons:

Limited to 16 states

$10 Lyft credit may not fully cover transportation to the rental lot

Not user-friendly for non-tech people

Download the Lyft riders app for Android and iOS.

6. Uber Rent

Find the perfect car for any occasion with Ubers rental service, powered by its partners. Choose from well-known brands, and enjoy flexible scheduling and add-ons, all at great prices, through the Uber app.

Key Features:

Flexible rental duration from 1 to 12 hours

Add or remove stops on the go, up to 5 stops at a time

Convenient, stress-free transportation with no parking or traffic worries

Book on the Uber app for short-term car rental anytime

Pros:

The Uber car rental option offers a cost-effective solution for those who cant afford car ownership

The rental partners handle all maintenance and repair needs, ensuring you a hassle-free experience. If your car breaks down, theyll provide a replacement

Choose rental duration to fit your needs and rent when needed, even if you already own a car

Enjoy driving newer, well-maintained cars with the Uber rental program, avoiding the worries of older vehicle issues

Cons:

Careful reading is required to avoid extra insurance or mileage charges from rental partners

Access to rides may be scarce in rural areas, small towns, or some cities

Download the Uber app for Android and iOS.

7. HyreCar

Rent a car for rideshare, delivery, and more with HyreCar. Drive as needed and earn on your terms with rentals for Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, and others. Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly options.

Key Features:

HyreCar is a top peer-to-peer car-sharing platform for gig workers

Book a suitable car from local owners for your rideshare or delivery work

Helps find new ride options during car repairs or to save personal car miles

Local car owners can list their vehicles and become car-sharing entrepreneurs

Pros:

Ideal for both new and experienced gig workers

Gig workers can achieve financial freedom with HyreCar

Tons of cars to choose from

Cons:

Can be an expensive long-term solution

All the cars have daily mileage limits set by owners, typically ranging from 150-300 miles

Car pickup/drop-off must be coordinated with the individual owner

Download the HyreCar app for Android and iOS.

8. Enterprise

Enterprise Rent-A-Car is a proud American company founded on principles of honesty, integrity, and community service. Today, its the largest car rental business with over 8,000 global locations, offering car rental, sharing, sales, and more.

Key Features:

Free travel planner app for the US, Canada, Europe, and Latin America

Award-winning customer service

Vehicle options from economy to luxury car rental

Industry-leading cleanliness and sanitization of every rental car

Pros:

Enterprise offers low rates for short-term car rentals

Over 8,000 locations worldwide with free pickup from hotel/home (not airport)

No hidden fees and a loyalty reward program, Enterprise Plus, is available

Points earned for money spent on rentals with expedited in-store service

Additional 10% after 6 rentals, free car upgrades for 12 and 24 rentals

Cons:

A young driver fee of $25 may apply

Long-term rentals may have better deals elsewhere

Additional driver fee of $15 per day, except for spouse/domestic partner

Download the Enterprise app for Android and iOS.

9. Budget

Plan your trip with Budget Car Rental for savings on car rentals, with top deals, rates, and accessories. Budget, founded in 1958 in LA by Morris Mirkin, is a well-respected global car rental company known for its excellence and value.

Key Features:

Book, change, or cancel car rentals 24/7

Locate nearby Budget car rental locations with addresses and operating hours

Get directions to your Budget rental location

Fastbreak members have a single hub for all rentals

Get on-road support with Roadside Assistance

Pros:

Streamlined process, no complicated steps

Wide range of vehicle options and customization

Easy profile and reservation modification

Cons:

The app may have occasional difficulties in determining location, but restarting the app usually resolves the issue

Download the Budget app for Android and iOS.

10. Alamo

Alamo offers low car rental rates at popular destinations worldwide, with a fleet of over 150,000 cars serving 15 million travelers annually. It is the third-largest car rental company in the US.

Key Features:

Find rental locations and reserve a car using filters

View all your rentals in one place

Prepare for pickup with Accelerated Check-In

Get 24/7 support and help with FAQs

Pros:

Simple reservation process

Available discounts

Convenient online check-in

Members who are part of the rewards program receive a 5% discount

Cons:

Fees for drivers under 25

Credit card requirement

A limited number of locations, with the majority being located at airports

Download the Alamo app for Android and iOS.

11. Hertz

Hertz offers diverse car rental options and convenient locations worldwide and prioritizes customer service for all types of trips. With over 10,000 airport and neighborhood locations across 145 countries, Hertz provides quick rental access that also provides car rental franchise opportunities.

Key Features:

One-touch log-in feature

Easy navigation with menus and features tailored for mobile use

Save time by using previous searches to book your next car rental quickly

Find Hertz locations worldwide with information on hours of operation, contact details, and directions

Get special deals and content through Hertz Gold Plus Rewards membership

Pros:

Free upgrades, no extra driver fees, and more with the Hertz rewards program

AAA members get special discounts

Free pick-up and drop-off service, except at airports

Hertz guarantees the best rate with an extra 10% off if you find a lower rate elsewhere

Cons:

Non-Gold Plus members pay an additional daily fee for each additional driver

Higher rates for shorter rentals compared to competitors

Reports of overcharging for gas and extras, especially in foreign locations

Download the Hertz app for Android and iOS.

App Name Key Features Pros Cons Available on Getaround Quick signup, car browsing, and Getaround Connect technology. Quick and simple, environmentally friendly, insurance and driving checks included. More costly, higher dissatisfaction, limited locations. Android, iOS Turo Services in 56 countries, various car models, in-app host communication, personal car-sharing business. Affordable, insurance cost savings, under 25 options, rental reviews. Limited one-way rentals, possible pick-up/drop-off inconvenience. Android, iOS Zipcar Hourly/daily reservations, wide range of vehicles, future reservations, locate reserved Zipcar. Affordable, 24/7 availability, insurance covered in fee, toll passes and gas cards provided. Possible unpleasant odors, cleaning rules, need to fill up the car before returning, extra fees for poor mileage tracking. Android, iOS carSHAiR Access to a vehicle when needed, earn money, carSHAiR member access, 24/7 live concierge support. User-friendly, accessible for non-tech individuals, exceptional customer support. Challenging photo upload, delayed payment and reimbursement, limited locations. Android, iOS Lyft Rentals Discounts for multi-day trips and new users, free car upgrades, local gas rate charging, all within the Lyft app. Easy to use, variety of vehicle options, free Lyft credit to pick-up location, free accessories, unlimited mileage. Limited to 16 states, $10 Lyft credit may not cover transportation to rental lot, not user-friendly for non-tech people. Android, iOS Uber Rent Flexible rental duration, add/remove stops, stress-free transportation. Cost-effective, maintenance and repair handled by partners, flexible rental duration, newer well-maintained cars. Extra charges from partners, scarce rides in rural areas or small towns. Android, iOS HyreCar Peer-to-peer platform for gig workers, book a suitable car from local owners. Ideal for gig workers, financial freedom, lots of cars to choose from. Can be expensive long-term, daily mileage limits, pickup/drop-off must be coordinated with the owner. Android, iOS Enterprise Free travel planner app, award-winning service, cleanliness and sanitization of cars. Low rates, free pickup, no hidden fees, loyalty reward program. Young driver fee of $25 may apply, better deals elsewhere for long-term, extra driver fee of $15 per day. Android, iOS Budget Book, change, or cancel rentals 24/7, locate nearby locations, get on-road support. Streamlined process, wide range of vehicle options, easy profile and reservation modification. App may have occasional difficulties in determining location. Android, iOS Alamo Find rental locations, view all rentals, prepare for pickup. Simple reservation process, available discounts, online check-in. Fees for drivers under 25, credit card requirement, limited number of locations. Android, iOS Hertz One-touch log-in, easy navigation, save previous searches, find Hertz locations, special deals through rewards program. Free upgrades, special discounts for AAA members, free pickup/drop-off, best rate guarantee. Extra fee for each additional driver, higher rates for shorter rentals, reports of overcharging. Android, iOS

The Bottom Line

There are many different car rental and vehicle-related apps available in 2023, each with its own unique features and benefits. There are even parking apps to get you an open spot without wandering around all day long. Whatever your needs may be, there is sure to be an app that meets them. From budget-friendly options to luxury services, the best car rental apps provide a convenient experience for all travelers. With so many different options, it can be difficult to choose which one is right for you, but hopefully, these reviews will help you find the perfect fit.

What app lets you rent someones car?

Turo is a popular app that lets you rent someones car. It offers cars from hundreds of makes and models, giving you a wide variety of options to choose from. On Turo, you can filter your search by price, location, type of vehicle, amenities, and more. You can also read reviews from past renters to get an idea of what other people think about the vehicles before renting them. With its reasonable prices and convenient services, Turo is a great option for rental car needs.

Is there an app for car rentals like Airbnb?

Yes, there are several apps that offer car rental services much like Airbnb. For instance, Getaround allows users to rent a car from people in their local community.

You can view available vehicles and book your rental instantly without having to go through a rental agency or dealership. Plus, the prices are often cheaper than traditional car rentals due to reduced overhead costs for the owner of the vehicle.

What is the easiest place to get a rental car from?

The easiest place to get rental cars is often through an online platform. Apps such as Turo and Getaround provide convenient car rental services that are often cheaper than traditional agencies. With these apps, you can view available vehicles in your area and book a rental with just a few clicks. Theyll also have reviews from past renters so you can ensure you get a quality vehicle.

What car rental fees will I pay with a car rental service and app?

Renting a car through a car rental service or app can involve a number of potential fees, not all of which may be immediately apparent. Here are some of the common types of fees you may be charged:

Rental Fee: This is the base fee for the car rental itself, typically calculated on a daily or weekly basis. The cost can vary significantly depending on the type of car, the rental company, and the location. Insurance Fee: Most rental companies offer a variety of insurance options for additional fees, such as Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Liability Insurance, Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), and more. While some of these may be optional, others might be mandatory depending on the companys policy and the laws of the country or state where you are renting the car. Fuel Fee: Depending on the rental companys policy, you may be required to return the car with a full tank of gas or pay a refueling fee. Some companies may also offer a pre-paid fuel option where you pay for a full tank of gas upfront and can return the car with any level of fuel. Equipment Rental Fee: If you need additional equipment such as a GPS, a child seat, ski racks, or other items, these will typically involve additional fees. Underage Driver Fee: Many rental companies charge an additional fee for drivers under a certain age (usually 25). This fee can vary significantly from one company to another. Additional Driver Fee: If more than one person will be driving the car, some companies charge an extra fee for each additional driver. One-way Rental Fee: If you pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another, there may be a one-way rental fee. Mileage Fee: Some rental agreements may include a limit on how many miles you can drive and charge extra for any miles driven over this limit. Taxes and Surcharges: These can include sales taxes, airport surcharges, local and state taxes, and other fees. These can add a significant amount to the total cost of the rental. Late Return Fee: If you return the car later than agreed, you may be charged an additional days rental or a late return fee. Early Return Fee: Some companies may charge a fee if you return the car earlier than the agreed date. Toll Charges: If you drive on toll roads, you will be responsible for the toll charges. Some rental companies offer electronic toll payment devices for an additional fee.

Its worth noting that GPS usage in rental cars can indeed drain battery life quickly if used continuously, so plan accordingly to ensure your device has sufficient power for your journey.

Always carefully review the rental agreement and all fees before you finalize your car rental to avoid any surprises.

How much does a car rental service and app cost?

The cost of renting a car through a car rental app or service can vary depending on various factors such as the type of vehicle, the length of the rental, and the location. However, on average, a daily rental for an economy car can cost around $30 to $40, while a more luxurious or larger vehicle can cost $70 to $100 or more per day. Keep in mind that these are just average costs and prices can fluctuate based on factors like location, availability, and time of the year.
If youre looking for a business opportunity that is both profitable and has a lot of growth potential, youll want to consider starting one of the businesses on this list. These 20 small businesses have the potential to be some of the most profitable businesses in 2023, and theres still time to get in on the action. Lets get started!

The Small Business Sector in 2023

The current small business landscape in 2022 shows that 65% of small business owners reported being profitable with 51.04% looking to increase staff, according to a poll conducted by Guidant Financial.

Whats even more promising is the fact that 41.02% of small businesses are looking to expand or remodel their business. However, 70.73% of small business owners said that trying to hire workers has been more difficult this year versus previous years.

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This could explain why 63.17% of small business owners have increased worker compensation, with 33% admitting to making significant efforts to keep on their current employees.

READ MORE: 20 of the Most Profitable Small Businesses

Our Methodology: The Most Profitable Small Businesses

When diving into the entrepreneurial world, one of the key attractions is profitability. However, identifying the most profitable small businesses requires a keen understanding of market dynamics, consumer needs, and emerging trends.

Here are the vital factors we prioritize when considering the potential profitability of small business ideas:

Small Business Deals

Market Demand

Understanding what products or services are in high demand in the current market establishes the foundation for a profitable business. Conducting thorough market research, examining trends, and anticipating future needs are crucial steps.

Low Overhead Costs

Keeping overhead costs low  including rent, utilities, and staffing  is a strategic way to ensure more of your revenue remains as net profit. Choosing business models that allow for efficient operations can significantly drive profitability.

High-Margin Services or Products

Opt for goods or services that allow for a significant markup while still providing value to consumers. High-margin offerings can help cushion the business against economic fluctuations.

Scalability

The ability to grow the business without or with minimal incremental cost is key to increasing profits. Scalable businesses can expand their reach and offerings without significantly increasing their base costs.

Recurring Revenue Streams

Businesses that offer subscription-based or recurring services can generate consistent income, making for a more stable and profitable enterprise. This model builds a loyal customer base that contributes regular revenue.

Adaptability and Agility

Small businesses that can quickly adapt to changing market conditions, consumer behaviors, and trends are more likely to stay profitable. This agility reduces downtime or loss associated with sudden market shifts.

Online Presence and E-commerce

Even for physical stores, having an online presence opens up broader markets. E-commerce allows businesses to operate 24/7 and reach customers beyond their local geography, significantly increasing potential profit.

Niche Market Appeal

Specializing in a niche market can reduce competition and allow for more targeted marketing efforts. Offering unique, niche, or specialty products or services often attracts a dedicated customer base willing to pay premium prices.

Automated Operations

Implementing automation within the business, whether in terms of marketing, order fulfillment, or customer service, can reduce labor costs and increase efficiency, contributing positively to the bottom line.

Strategic Partnerships

Collaborating with other businesses or individuals can help in cost-saving, expanding your customer base, and cross-promoting services for mutual benefits. These strategic partnerships can lead to significant profit increases with minimal investment.

Identifying the most profitable small businesses involves a balance of these factors, considering what each business can manage, its market, and its unique value propositions. This blend ensures the businesses we recommend have a robust foundation for profitability and success.

Most Profitable Small Business Ideas

Take a look at all the opportunities 2023 could bring your way if you start one of these businesses.

1. Social Media Management

If you have an internet connection and are good at social media marketing, then starting a social media management business might be a good option for you.

By establishing an excellent social media management business in 2023, you can help businesses connect with their customers and grow.

2. Cleaning Services

Cleaning services is a business that will always be in demand. People are always looking for ways to save time and money, and hiring a cleaning service is a great way to do that.

3. Creating Online Courses

If youre an expert in a particular subject, you can create an online course and sell it to people who want to learn more about that topic. This is a great way to make money while helping others learn.

4. Business Consulting

Starting a consulting business can be a great way to earn a good income. If you have experience in business, you can help others start and grow their businesses.

5. Graphic Design Services

Are you a creative person? If so, you can start a graphic design business and help businesses with their branding and marketing efforts.

6. Digital Marketing Services

One thing that will always be in demand is digital marketing services. As long as businesses want to reach their customers online, there will be a need for digital marketers.

7. App Development

If youre a tech-savvy individual, you can start an app development business. With the right idea, you can create an app that will be a hit with users and earn you a good income. You can also choose to offer app development services to other businesses.

8. Personal Training

If youre passionate about fitness and helping others, becoming a personal trainer might be the perfect business for you. You can start your own personal training business or work for a gym or other fitness facility.

9. Web Development

In 2023, businesses will still need websites, and theyll need someone to create them. If you have the skills, you can start a web development business and help businesses get online.

10. Courier Services

If you have a vehicle and are willing to do some driving, you can start a courier service. This is a great business for those who are organized and have good customer service skills.

More of the Most Profitable Business Ideas in 2023

As the small business sector continues to grow, its important to stay up-to-date on the latest and most profitable business opportunities. Here are 10 more of the most successful small businesses for you to consider starting in 2023.

11. Catering Business

Do you love to cook? If so, you can start a catering business. This is a great option for those who want to work from home and have the ability to cook large quantities of food.

12. Real Estate Investing

If youre looking for a passive income business, real estate investing might be a good option for you. You can earn money by owning and renting out residential and commercial properties.

13. Virtual Assistant Services

The need for virtual assistants will increase as businesses continue to move online. If you have administrative or customer service experience, you can start a virtual assistant business and help businesses with their online tasks.

14. Online Tutoring

Are you an expert in a particular subject? If so, you can start an online tutoring business and help students learn. This is a great option for those who want to work from home, set their own hours, and are good with people.

15. Technology Repair Services

As technology becomes more and more prevalent in our lives, the need for technology repair services will also increase. If youre good with computers and other electronic devices, you can start a business that provides these services.

16. IT Support

Businesses use so much technology these days that theyll need IT support services to help them. If youre familiar with computers and networking, you can start an IT support business and help businesses keep their systems up and running.

17. Freelance Writing

Do you have a knack for writing? If so, you can start a freelance writing business. This is a great option for those who want to work from home working on a business they love.

18. Food Truck

A food truck is a great option for those who love to cook and have a passion for food. You can start your own food truck business or work for an existing one.

19. Property Management

If youre good with people and have experience in the property management field, you can start your own property management business. This is a great way to get into the real estate industry.

20. Legal Services

Last on our list of the most profitable businesses to start in 2023 is a legal services business. If you have experience in the legal field, you can start a business that provides legal services to businesses and individuals such as wills and trusts, contract reviews, and more.

What Do You Need to Start a Successful Business?

Starting a successful business requires careful planning and consideration of various factors. Beyond startup costs, here are some other essential elements you need:

A Solid Business Plan: Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your vision, target market, products or services, marketing strategies, financial projections, and growth plans.

Develop a comprehensive business plan outlining your vision, target market, products or services, marketing strategies, financial projections, and growth plans. Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to understand your industry, competition, and target audience. Identify gaps and opportunities to position your business for success.

Conduct thorough market research to understand your industry, competition, and target audience. Identify gaps and opportunities to position your business for success. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Register your business and obtain all necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. This ensures you stay compliant with local and national regulations.

Register your business and obtain all necessary permits and licenses to operate legally. This ensures you stay compliant with local and national regulations. Clear Value Proposition: Define what makes your business unique and how it addresses your customers needs better than competitors.

Define what makes your business unique and how it addresses your customers needs better than competitors. Financial Management: Implement effective financial management practices to track income, expenses, and profitability. Create a budget and stick to it.

Implement effective financial management practices to track income, expenses, and profitability. Create a budget and stick to it. Marketing and Branding: Develop a strong brand identity and marketing strategy to create awareness and attract customers.

Develop a strong brand identity and marketing strategy to create awareness and attract customers. Customer Focus: Prioritize excellent customer service and build strong relationships with your clients.

Prioritize excellent customer service and build strong relationships with your clients. Skilled Team: Hire talented and dedicated employees who share your vision and contribute to the success of your business.

Hire talented and dedicated employees who share your vision and contribute to the success of your business. Adaptability: Stay flexible and open to adapting your business strategies based on market feedback and changing conditions.

Stay flexible and open to adapting your business strategies based on market feedback and changing conditions. Passion and Determination: Running a successful business requires dedication, hard work, and a genuine passion for what you do.

By addressing these crucial elements, you can lay a strong foundation for your businesss success and increase your chances of achieving your entrepreneurial goals.

Key Elements for a Successful Business 1. Startup Costs 2. Solid Business Plan 3. Market Research 4. Legal and Regulatory Compliance 5. Clear Value Proposition 6. Financial Management 7. Marketing and Branding 8. Customer Focus 9. Skilled Team 10. Adaptability 11. Passion and Determination

What Are the Most Profitable Small Businesses?

Owning your own business is a great way to be in control of your income and your future. Many small businesses can be profitable, but some are more so than others.

Some of the best small business ideas that can be very profitable include owning and operating a franchise, starting a home-based business, or becoming a consultant.

These businesses offer the potential for flexibility, independence, and profitability. So if youre ready to take the plunge into entrepreneurship, these are three great options to consider.

Conclusion

As we step into the year 2023, the small business landscape is brimming with opportunities for those who are eager to embark on the entrepreneurial journey. This list of 20 small business ideas not only holds the potential for profitability but also reflects the evolving needs and trends of our ever-changing world.

The statistics from 2022 paint a promising picture for small businesses. With 65% of small business owners reporting profitability, its clear that success is attainable. However, its crucial to acknowledge the challenges they face, such as hiring difficulties. Yet, the fact that 41.02% of small businesses are planning to expand or remodel demonstrates the enduring spirit of entrepreneurship and growth.

Now, lets delve into the small business ideas that hold the promise of profitability in 2023:

Social Media Management: With businesses increasingly relying on social media, starting a social media management business offers a chance to help them connect with customers and grow. Cleaning Services: The demand for cleaning services remains constant, making it a reliable and profitable business. Creating Online Courses: Sharing your expertise by creating online courses can be a lucrative endeavor, benefiting both you and those eager to learn. Business Consulting: Leverage your business experience to help others start and expand their ventures, offering valuable insights and guidance. Graphic Design Services: Tap into your creativity by assisting businesses with branding and marketing through graphic design services. Digital Marketing Services: In a world where businesses continuously strive to reach customers online, digital marketing services will always be in high demand. App Development: If you possess technical skills, an app development business could yield substantial income by creating apps or offering development services to other businesses. Personal Training: Combine your passion for fitness with entrepreneurship by becoming a personal trainer, either independently or with a gym or fitness facility. Web Development: Websites remain essential for businesses, creating a steady demand for web development services. Courier Services: Use your vehicle and organizational skills to establish a courier service, catering to delivery needs.

These are just the beginning of a plethora of profitable opportunities in 2023. Here are ten more to consider:

Catering Business: If you love to cook, a catering business offers the chance to work from home and serve delicious meals. Real Estate Investing: For those seeking passive income, investing in residential and commercial properties can provide financial stability. Virtual Assistant Services: As businesses move online, the need for virtual assistants continues to grow, providing opportunities for administrative and customer service professionals. Online Tutoring: Sharing your expertise in a specific subject can be rewarding and profitable through online tutoring. Technology Repair Services: As technology becomes more integrated into our lives, the demand for technology repair services increases. IT Support: With businesses relying heavily on technology, IT support services are crucial for maintaining smooth operations. Freelance Writing: If you have a talent for writing, freelance writing offers flexibility and the chance to work on projects you love. Food Truck: Express your passion for food through a food truck business, delivering culinary delights to your community. Property Management: Leverage your people skills and property management experience to help others in the real estate industry. Legal Services: Providing legal services, such as wills, trusts, and contract reviews, is a valuable contribution to businesses and individuals.

To start a successful business in 2023, its essential to have a solid business plan, conduct thorough market research, ensure legal and regulatory compliance, and offer a clear value proposition. Financial management, effective marketing, excellent customer service, and a skilled team are also crucial. Furthermore, adaptability and a relentless passion for your venture will drive your success.

As you navigate the small business landscape, remember that each of these opportunities presents its unique challenges and rewards. Success often stems from your ability to align your skills, interests, and determination with the right business idea. By combining these elements and addressing key factors, you can carve a path toward profitability and fulfillment in the world of entrepreneurship.

In 2023, the small business sector is ripe with possibilities. Its up to you to seize the moment, turn your aspirations into action, and embark on the journey of building a profitable and rewarding business. Whether you choose to venture into social media management, web development, or any of the other exciting opportunities listed here, the potential for success awaits those who are willing to take the leap into the world of entrepreneurship.
How a Slovak trains chatbots.

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"I think people believed that both language and meaningful text were their domain. With difficult things like folding proteins, or playing complicated games like chess, it is not surprising an AI can do that," says Michal Valko, Slovak machine learning scientist at DeepMind in Paris. The company is part of Google and specialises in the research of artificial intelligence.

This article is supported by the ESET Foundation, whose annual ESET Science Award recognises exceptional scientists.

"However, with chatbots, it turns out that it is not as difficult as we thought," he says about why people were so taken aback with ChatGPT's capabilities.

Michal Valko is also an envoy of the Eset Science Award. This interview was carried out on the occasion of the announcement of this year's laureates. He speaks about the chatbot's capabilities, whether there is anything resembling an consciousness, if we should fear robot uprising, as well as how cars are trained.

When ChatGPT appeared almost a year ago, people were blown away by what it could do. At the same time, people began to think an AI uprising in the vein of the Terminator movie series is near. Is it?

Certainly not, although I cannot predict the future. We, the scientists who work with artificial intelligence were not at all surprised by what the chatbot could do. We had had chatbots like that for a very long time. They are based on the technology called transformers that has been around since 2017. It was invented by our team at Google.

We didn't make them available because we thought they weren't good enough as they could make things up. It's called hallucinating. However, Open AI put ChatGPT out there and we found that people don't really mind the issue that much. However, we were surprised by their appetite for the technology. Of course, other companies also wanted to show that they have something like that, so there are more of them now.

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Then what the chatbot is capable of?

ChatGPT has no consciousness whatsoever. Under the hood, there is only matrix multiplication (it involves two grids of numbers multiplied together and forms the basis of many computing tasks - Ed. note), so the whole transformer is basically simple, but thanks to that, it can be trained on a lot of data. It's a process at the end of which is a distribution of 32,000 words; it starts with picking one word with some probability, then another, and so on to form a sentence.

Each sentence has a certain probability, and learning involves choosing the sentences we want to see, the ones with a higher probability. There is no consciousness, no intention, no opinion, nothing like that. It cannot be compared to the human brain or Skynet (the artificial intelligence from the Terminator franchise that rebelled against humanity - Ed. note). It just learn the patterns of how words follow each other and tries to replicate it. This is what chatbots know now.

Let's say I tell you that you are just placating me and in fact are paid by "Big Tech AI business". What would you say to this?

That everything I say can be verified. These things are public, the source codes are out there, they can be downloaded and trained. However, a lot of computing power is needed, and a lot of data. An ordinary person will not train a chatbot on their laptop, but they can use it at the very least. Chatbot development costs tens of millions of euros, half of which goes to computing power and the other to salaries.

To stay up to date with what scientists in Slovakia or Slovak scientists around the world are doing, subscribe to the Slovak Science newsletter, which will be sent to readers free of charge four times a year.

Why was it that people were so amazed by the technology to begin with? You mentioned that you had these chatbots internally for years, and AI has been used for a long time, for example, in photo editing apps on phones.

It is an ordinary thing. Eliza is a chatbot that is over 50 years old. However, in the past these chatbots were not based on neural networks, but on other models. Now, they learn how likely it is for one word to follow another. More than a year ago, our company launched AlphaFold, a protein folding AI program.

In my opinion, this is a much greater contribution to science, since it was necessary to come up with a lot of innovations. It is something used by millions of biologists and has advanced research on malaria, bacteria and more. However, only a specialist can appreciate this, as opposed to anyone's ability to appreciate a chatbot that makes a text. I think people believed that both language and meaningful text were their domain.

With difficult things like folding proteins, or playing complicated games like chess or go, it is not surprising an AI can do that, even though few understand the progress that was necessary to achieve it in the first place. However, with chatbots, it turns out that it is not as difficult as we thought.

When using ChatGPT, I noticed that it presented me with facts it could not prove, provide source. When I tried, I did not find anything related to the "facts" it provided. Isn't it perhaps more dangerous than the idea of a robot rebellion?

In my opinion, yes. I actually work on this, to eliminate hallucinations. Since a chatbot doesn't think, it just picks one word after another out of many probabilities, so there is no verification, no reflection, no reasoning, no memory. Therefore, it is actually not surprising that something that is not true comes up eventually, because this concept does not exist here. As I've said, we are trying to find out how to complete a sentence and use the Internet as a source.

Not only there untrue things, but also racist, sexist, toxic things on the Internet. A chatbots learns from those too. We are charmed by a chatbot's ability to complete sentences that make sense and think it probably means something and thus it is reliable. Well, it doesn't and it's not. That's dangerous and we know there some basic things a chatbot cannot handle.

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What are those?

One such thing is called a reverse curse. We ask who is Tom Cruise's mother, the chatbot say Mary Lee Pfeiffer. We then ask what Mary Lee Pheiffer's son's name is, and the chatbot replies that she has no children. A living person wouldn't do that, it doesn't take any genius. I can give many examples where the wall breaks on something so trivial. Therefore, research into how to eliminate or reduce hallucinations is important.

How can that be achieved?

We try to find data that supports the inference of a chatbot. We can try to find out that if a chatbot is hallucinating and training on certain data, we can modify the training method. Then we can use human feedback to say that we do not prefer such answers, thus teaching the chatbot what to choose and at the same time reducing the chance of hallucination. On the other hand, people are also capable of hallucinating, when we ask something and the person doesn't know the answer, they can make it up.

Can an AI be trained to say that it doesn't know an answer?

It can be done. It's actually a standard approach in machine learning since before chatbots came along. It is called learning with abstention. It would be possible to use things that do not have an answer as an input data and as an output use "I don't know" for example. Or one part of the training would be that we let the chatbot give two random answers, because it always gives one.

Michal Valko. (Source: Christian Morel Photographer)

Does it have to?

We need to determine what we want as an output. We can teach the chatbot that between two answers, a human will prefer the answer "I don't know", and thus give the chatbot a better chance to say it. The thing is, we expect a lot of things from a chatbot. It is very difficult to even say what a good chatbot actually means. Do we want it to not imagine things? Not be racist? Toxic? To verify sources? It can be a lot, making it difficult to optimise. Sometimes such requirements go against each other. We can get better in one metric and get worse in another. My research is also about how to improve one metric while not worsening the other. Sometimes we also have to let the user choose what kind of chatbot they want.

Although ChatGPT had some restrictions built-in, for example not providing instructions on how to build a bomb, people eventually found a way around them anyway. How do you deal with such misuse of technology?

We take this very seriously. The AlphaFold protein folding system went through several levels of scrutiny. We have an internal board where we ask what the positives and negatives are. We also asked scientists what they thought about it. In the end, we decided that the positives outweighed the negatives. But that doesn't mean someone else wouldn't do the opposite.

We co-founded Partnership on AI, a coalition of all the big players in the field including governments, non-profits, ethicists, philosophers try to discuss these things. We also have a code of what we would never do. I can mention we have an absolute red line on anything that could even remotely contribute to the development of weapons. Google also has its own code and we follow that too. However, no institution has the right answers and you have to go on a case by case basis.

Another question is that while it may sometimes be unethical to release something, it can also be unethical not to release something. AlphaFold could help the development of an important drug and it would therefore be unethical to prevent progress in medicine. The difference is also that medicine is a completely different field than designing random images. There are already regulations in some areas. AI is not the first area that needs them, and we can take inspiration from those areas that have had regulations for a long time.

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Are you suggesting that there will not be a day when we have to quote Jeff Goldblum who said in Jurassic Park that "your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could that they didn't stop to think if they should"?

Yes. Regulation plays a big role. As scientists, we ask where ours and our company's boundaries are. At the same time, the whole society must be involved. We need as many opinions as possible so that it is not concentrated on just one country. This is also why my colleagues and I organised the Eastern European Machine Learning Summer School in Kosice and attracted top scientists to Central Europe. We have a brain drain and countries like Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania do not contribute much in this area, so we try to help and encourage people to do this. We need input, ideas from different fields, to be exposed to critical opinions.

Have you, as a company, ever developed a system that you changed your mind about and did not made it available?

Even when we start working on something, it must go through a review. We have to choose our partners, we cannot do with just anyone. They have to be vetted institutions and we have ways to see if the risk is proportionate. I don't know of anything that it was about to fall, and then it turned around. For example, chatbots were around before, but companies didn't release them because of hallucinations.

A month before ChatGPT launched, Meta launched its own chatbot called Galactica that wrote a scientific article that was rubbish. Meta took a risk but they had to take it down almost immediately because the public was angry. Open AI, as a lesser-known player in the area, was therefore able to take the risk. It would have been much more difficult for Google too, as people's expectations are very high. When they search for something, they expect results that are real. The same goes for their maps.

We have touched on your work a few times. What you are doing is called reinforcement learning. What does it mean?

It is an old subset of artificial intelligence research. The name is borrowed from neuroscience, basically the first form was Pavlov's dog experiments, that is, learning in the form of reward and punishment. It is a method that is used when we cannot describe precisely how a system, which we also call agent, should behave.

It's easy to say what's in a picture, but it's hard, for example, to say how to drive a car properly and teach the system what to do. For example, so that when its sensors see something, it slows down and turns. And there are so many possibilities. But at the same time, we want it to follow the traffic rules, make people feel comfortable and so on. The principle of reinforcement learning is to let the system work and then tell it what was good and what was bad, because it's easier that way.

It is used when there is a sequence of steps. When we want to get somewhere by car, we only find out after arriving at the destination whether the sequence of steps was good. Because I can say that you drive well, but you arrived entirely elsewhere than you were supposed to.

What does it look like with chatbots?

When it comes to chatbots, it is used in the last phase of training. Currently, there are three phases. In pre-training, they learn to complete sentences based on what they read on the Internet. That's how they learn what words come after previous words. At this stage, we cannot talk to them yet. In the second phase, we teach them on dialogues and they answer questions. Finally, we fine-tune the process with reinforcement learning so that they don't make things up, don't behave awkwardly, don't pretend to be a doctor or financial advisor.

That is to not do what may seem problematic to us, but at the same time is difficult to define. So we let the chatbot offer two random answers and we choose the better one. We're fine-tuning it to maximise this otherwise very hard-to-define feedback. This is the biggest use of reinforcement learning in 2023.

What direction is the research headed now?

Transformers are the predominant trend. At the same time, not all things in AI are transformers, for example, generative AI that makes videos or pictures. However, transformers have one drawback. Training is energy intensive. Research is being done to reduce this footprint, because training is expensive and with transformers it must be done many times. This is one of the most important things in the area, how to make chatbots cheaper and also improve their capabilities. People are also trying to make them multimodal, so that they provide a combination of text, audio, video. There are many open questions and we are only at the beginning.

This article is supported by the ESET Foundation, whose annual ESET Science Award recognises exceptional scientists.
Check out the affordable activities taking place in the city, including the opening of a legendary pharmacy U Salvatora or a concert at Slovak Radio.

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Nature | Pharmacy | Music

Nature

Mala Bana (Source: Wikimedia Commons)

An easy forest walk

Meeting point: Saturday, October 28 at Patronka at 10:10

This weekend a child-friendly and easy walk through the forest is planned.

The hikers will meet at Patronka at 10:10, to catch the 43 bus (departing 10:20) to Kacin, where they will start the trip. They have a steady stroll through the forest on marked and unmarked trails, have a stop at the bufet "U Slivu", then they will continue to a scenic viewpoint at Mala Bana. Finally they will walk onwards to the Raca area and catch the no. 3 tram home.

If you'd like to follow the route yourself, here is the map.

https://sk.frame.mapy.cz/s/lufugovefu

Pharmacy

(Source: BKIS)

Opening of a pharmacy U Salvatora

Saturday, October 28, starts at 10:00 at Panska 35

After 28 years, the life and function of the national cultural monument - Lekaren u Salvatora is returning.

Before the pharmacy starts operating, you can take advantage of a unique opportunity to get to know this space, its drawers, bottles, inlays, scales, its structure and ornate lions, and all the hidden corners and secrets of the office, into which the non-pharmacist's eye cannot normally see.

In addition, tours, concerts, discussions, workshops, and measurements await you. And especially getting to know a precious piece of Bratislava's history.

https://sk.frame.mapy.cz/s/joduzosada

Music

The project of Slovak songwriter Woman's Touch. (Source: Radio_FM - Facebook)

Pohoda_FM live: Woman's Touch

Tuesday, October 31 at 20:00 in Slovak Radio Chamber Studio (Study No. 5), Mytna 1

Woman's Touch is the artistic project of a Slovak songwriter and producer, who has been living for a long time outside the country. She considers anger, dealing with personal disappointments, and the other challenges of life, from the artist's point of view, to be central themes in her work.

In 2011, she started writing her first album, This Feeling, which was mainly acoustic, but nowadays her work contains more electronic elements, especially after collaborations with friends on the scene such as Salome or Monoplastic. She is currently working on her second album, which is about to drop soon.

https://sk.frame.mapy.cz/s/fosohujohe

If you have tips for free events in Bratislava or you would like to share your hiking or cycling trip ideas with readers, let us know at kseniia.husieva@spectator.sk.
Deputy Speaker Peter Ziga from Hlas party faces corruption charges.

Speaker Peter Pellegrini (second from left) and his deputy speakers: Michal Simecka (first from left), Andrej Danko (centre), Peter Ziga (second from right) and Lubos Blaha. (Source: TASR - Jakub Kotian)

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Former economy and environment minister Peter Ziga has been elected the deputy speaker of parliament.

The Hlas member is being prosecuted in a corruption case. His charge depends on one witness, former judge and Smers former deputy justice minister Monika Jankovska, the Sme daily writes. She herself faces corruption charges.

Whether she insists on her testimony from 2020 is not clear, nor when was the last time the police questioned her.

Corruption charges were brought against Ziga in December 2020. According to Jankovska, Ziga tried to bribe Supreme Court Justice Katarina Pramukova with 100,000 for her help. Ziga allegedly wanted the judge to decide on the Gabcikovo hydropower plant case in favour of Slovakia, and against then-majority Italian owner Enel. Ziga wanted the state to take over the plant.
PM Robert Fico makes it to Brussels a day after taking power, free events in Bratislava, JLR will produce e-cars in Slovakia.

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Good evening. Here is the Thursday, October 26 edition of Today in Slovakia - the main news of the day in less than five minutes.

Interior minister's first task: Fire police chief

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok. (Source: TASR - Jakub Kotian)

Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Hlas) dismissed police chief Stefan Hamran on Thursday.

"If the police are to fulfil their true mission in accordance with the law, this step was necessary," said the Interior Ministry.

Sutaj Estok has criticised the police chief in his Facebook videos for months. In one of the videos, he claimed that Hamran turned Slovakia into an "illegal migration motorway". However, illegal migration increased, in part, due to a change in legislation adopted by the previous Smer-led government, for which Sutaj Estok worked. The change has attracted thousands of illegal migrants in recent months. Sutaj Estok also slammed Hamran for the investigation of high-profile corruption cases that concern the major ruling party Smer. Unlike Hamran, the minister cannot fire the investigators dealing with these cases.

Hamran said several weeks ago that he would leave the police at the end of October. The ministers decision to fire Hamran by sending him a written note thus lacks logic.

Rastislav Polakovic from Stara Lubovna, eastern Slovakia, will replace Hamran for the time being. Hamran, who has worked as a police officer since 1999, was told to join the police in Poprad, eastern Slovakia. Hamran lives in Komarno, western Slovakia.

Related: Charged former police chief Tibor Gaspar (Smer) was elected the new head of the defence and security parliamentary committee on Wednesday. His son, Pavol, has become the deputy minister at the Justice Ministry. He is known as an unsuccessful police officer and a lawyer who works for charged oligarch Norbert Bodor. Gaspar Jr. faced a perjury charge last year. The opposition has criticised some of the nominees for deputy ministers, including elected MPs Filip Kuffa and Stefan Kuffa. The son and the father are charged with attacking and threatening a farmer and his relatives in 2021.

More stories from The Slovak Spectator website

Government: PM Robert Fico (Smer) refuses to support Ukraine militarily, selects a pro-Russian and weak foreign minister, and plans an attack on NGOs.

PM Robert Fico (Smer) refuses to support Ukraine militarily, selects a pro-Russian and weak foreign minister, and plans an attack on NGOs. Parliament: Hlas member Peter Ziga faces corruption charges. Nevertheless, he now serves as one of the deputy speakers of parliament.

Hlas member Peter Ziga faces corruption charges. Nevertheless, he now serves as one of the deputy speakers of parliament. Automotive: Electric cars will also be produced in Nitra. Jaguar Land Rover failed to say more.

Electric cars will also be produced in Nitra. Jaguar Land Rover failed to say more. Real estate: Slovaks are increasingly interested in buying real estate in Dubai.

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

A Slovak's research on AI for Google

Michal Valko. (Source: Christian Morel Photographer)

Michal Valko is a Slovak machine learning scientist at DeepMind in Paris. The company is part of Google and specialises in the research of artificial intelligence.

FREE BRATISLAVA EVENTS

Pay a visit to extraordinary pharmacy

The Salvator pharmacy has been closed for more than two decades. It will reopen on Saturday. (Source: Sme)

Check out the affordable activities taking place in Bratislava, including the opening of a legendary pharmacy, U Salvatora, or a concert at Slovak Radio.

In other news

Pope Francis appointed the Reverend Fr. Jozef Jonas Maxim, hegumen of the Univ Studite Lavra, Ukraine, as metropolitan archbishop of Presov of the Byzantines, Slovakia, on Thursday.

The new government is said to split the public broadcaster RTVS and create two separate public service media: radio (SRo) and television (STV) . This model had existed in Slovakia prior to 2011. (Dennik N)

. This model had existed in Slovakia prior to 2011. (Dennik N) Slovakia's decision to stop military aid to Kyiv will not have a significant impact on the course of the conflict in Ukraine , Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday.

, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday. The Polish chain of grocery stores Biedronka will open its first stores in Slovakia by the end of next year. This week, Polish people can buy Slovak products at Biedronka stores.

This week, Polish people can buy Slovak products at Biedronka stores. Bratislavans are most proud of Bratislava Castle (94 percent), Hviezdoslav Square with the old Slovak National Theatre building (92 percent) and Hodza Square with the Presidential Palace (82 percent), shows an Mnforce survey. Bratislavans are most bothered by the main railway station, as well as Kamenne Square with the OD Prior building and the former Kyiv hotel. (Aktuality)

The sale of flowers and cemetery candles and lanterns in front of the Slavicie Udolie cemetery in Bratislava before the upcoming All Saints' Day in Bratislava on October 24, 2023. (Source: TASR)

WEATHER FOR FRIDAY: Mostly cloudy with rain. The highest daytime temperature will rise to 17C. Fresh breeze. (SHMU)

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/aussie-cossack-australias-fearsome-military-trailers--albanese-jumping-into-new-war-1114509818.html

Aussie Cossack: Australia's Fearsome Military Trailers & Albanese Jumping Into New War

Aussie Cossack: Australia's Fearsome Military Trailers & Albanese Jumping Into New War

Albanese is sending Australian weapons, troops and airplanes and fighter jets to the Middle East to join another war. Its funny, but its true. Thats the problem, says Sputnik contributor Semyon Boykov a.k.a. Aussie Cossack.

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While recent media reports suggest Australias latest contribution to Kievs cause includes anti-drone gear and a 3D metal printer, one can only wonder what else Canberra may dispatch considering what some of its previous Ukrainian aid packages contained.You know, we actually sent trailers. We sent 14 trailers to Ukraine, recalls Sputnik contributor Semyon Boykov a.k.a. Aussie Cossack. That was the last deal of Australian military support.The trailers in question were just your ordinary trailers painted green, Boykov notes, adding that the cost of buying such trailers in Poland, Ukraines neighbor, would have probably been smaller than the cost of shipping them all the way from Australia.The Aussie Cossack shared his thoughts on the subject as Albanese sends Australian troops and aircraft to the Middle East amid the ongoing escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.Albanese is sending Australian weapons, troops and airplanes and fighter jets to the Middle East to join another war. Its funny, but its true. Thats the problem, says Boykov.Check out what else the Aussie Cossack has to say on the matter.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/china-hopes-us-will-observe-nuclear-testing-moratorium-1114504121.html

China Hopes US Will Observe Nuclear Testing Moratorium

China Hopes US Will Observe Nuclear Testing Moratorium

Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesperson Wu Qian voiced hope at a briefing on Thursday that the United States would observe the moratorium on nuclear testing.

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"China will closely monitor the US actions. We hope that the US will take more concrete actions to perform its duties in observing the nuclear testing moratorium," Wu said. In early October, the US conducted an underground nuclear test in Nevada. It took place hours after the Russian lower house passed a bill to revoke the ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231006/russias-withdrawal-from-ctbt-does-not-mean-it-plans-to-conduct-nuclear-tests---kremlin-1113980732.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/good-for-american-jobs-us-reportedly-changes-tactics-on-ukraine-aid-1114489927.html

Good For American Jobs: US Reportedly Changes Tactics on Ukraine Aid

Good For American Jobs: US Reportedly Changes Tactics on Ukraine Aid

US President Joe Biden earlier seeking $24 billion in aid to Ukraine resulted a threat of the government shutdown in September, when Republican Congressmen refused to approve a budget that included funds for the Kiev regime.

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The Joe Biden administration is privately speaking to each representative of both political parties in Congress to justify the need for further aid to Ukraine by the fact that it will allegedly become the key to economic growth in the US itself, media reported.As we replenish our stocks of weapons, we are partnering with the US defense industry to increase our capacity and meet the needs of the US and our allies both now and in the future, a copy of the talking points obtained by the outlet reads.The White Houses apparent change in sales pitch comes as the latest opinion polls indicate that Americans are becoming skeptical about Washingtons aid to Kiev and continuing to question Bidens handling of the US economy.The outlet noted in this regard that some Republicans berate the Biden administration for its subpar rhetoric about Ukraine, purportedly adding that the White House should change its message in order to gain House GOP support and preserve the stronger backing in the Senate.There has been a bit of effort to help the administration understand that their messaging is wholly inadequate, and theyre using phrases that Republicans dont respond to, and theyre not making convincing arguments, the aide added.The remarks came after former State Department diplomat James Carden argued that Biden's nationally broadcast speech last week, in which he sought broad support for stepping up already huge levels of US aid to Ukraine, was another unthinking, reflexive expression of the globalist mindset that has been destroying the US economy over the past several decades.The lawmakers disagreements over funding Ukraine brought the US to the brink of a government shutdown last month, which was followed by then-GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy being ousted by his own party for cutting a deal with Biden to continue funding the Kiev regime.The US, along with its NATO allies, ramped up aid to Ukraine shortly after the start of the Russian special military operation. Moscow has repeatedly warned that such assistance adds to prolongation of the Ukrainian conflict.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231025/west-realizing-more-military-aid-to-ukraine-lost-cause--ex-pentagon-analyst-1114464415.html

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North Korea on Thursday accused Israel of conducting a deadly explosion at a hospital in the Gaza Strip and lambasted the United States over its "undisguised patronage" of such an act.

The North's belated criticism of the incident came after hundreds of people died in the Oct. 17 bombing at the al-Ahli Hospital in the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

While Hamas has accused Israel of carrying out the strike, Israel has claimed it was caused by a botched Islamic Jihad rocket launch. U.S. President Joe Biden echoed the view during his visit to Israel, attributing the explosion to a "terrorist group."

"What should not be overlooked is that Israel's such criminal act was openly committed under the undisguised patronage of the U.S," a spokesperson for the North's foreign ministry said in an English-language statement carried by the Korean Central News Agency.

The official slammed Washington for being an "accomplice" to Israel's "hideous war crime."

"Immediately after the bombing of the hospital by Israel, the U.S. covered such crime, making absurd sophism that the incident seemed to be committed by other forces rather than Israel," the official said. "This shows that the U.S. is an accomplice who connived at and fostered Israel's genocide."

North Korea on Monday accused the U.S. of being behind the Israel-Hamas war, saying Washington is "entirely" responsible for the tragedy.

Earlier this month, the North denounced Israel over the conflict, saying it is the "consequence of Israel's ceaseless criminal actions" against the people of Palestine.

It also denied as "groundless" that the Hamas militant group used North Korean weapons for its surprise attack on Israel, accusing Washington of cooking up false accusations. (Yonhap)
https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/iran-wont-allow-us-israel-to-scapegoat-tehran-over-gaza-crisis--professor-1114504590.html

Iran Won't Allow US, Israel to Scapegoat Tehran Over Gaza Crisis  Professor

Iran Won't Allow US, Israel to Scapegoat Tehran Over Gaza Crisis  Professor

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian arrived in New York City on October 25, as the UN Security Council attempted to reach a compromise on a ceasefire resolution concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. What's behind the move?

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The Israeli-Hamas crisis is continuing to escalate, while global players have yet to find a formula for a way out of the conflict at the UN Security Council.Washington's initial draft resolution failed to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis and did not include a provision for humanitarian pauses. The later US version was also brought down over the "politicization" of the conflict. Moscow's draft resolution called for an immediate "humanitarian ceasefire," while condemning Hamas' surprise attack on Israel as well as "indiscriminate attacks" on Gaza objects and civilians. However, it was vetoed by the United States and the United Kingdom.Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian arrived in New York, where the UN headquarters are located, on Wednesday, as the regional crisis is threatening to spiral out of control.Izadi noted that the arrival of Iran's diplomacy chief in New York City amid the heated debate at the UNSC is by no means surprising, given that many top diplomats from the Middle East have recently gathered in the Big Apple to discuss the Gaza war.In addition, Tehran needs to represent its interests and articulate its vision at the UN as the US is trying to scapegoat Iran for the conflict, while in fact the blame should be laid at Washington's door, instead, the professor stressed.According to him, the US keeps arming Israel and turns a blind eye to Tel Aviv's disproportionate response, described by Izadi as a "genocide of Palestinians."While the United States has not found any evidence connecting Iran to the Hamas surprise attack on October 7, it is now accusing Tehran of "actively facilitating" rocket and drone attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria. Tehran resolutely rejected these claims on Monday: Iran "neither gives orders to the resistance groups across the region, nor stop them from taking decisions in their own countries based on their own interests," as Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian told reporters.If the US verbal attacks against Iran translate into military actions, Tehran will respond appropriately, stressed Izadi."Iranian officials have said that if the United States attacks Iran, Iran will attack the United States. That's not very complicated. The message, I think, is clear enough. And Americans realize that Iran's military capability is quite high. That's why they engage in this type of rhetoric against Iran, because they realize that they cannot do to Iran what they are doing to Gaza. It's the language of force that they understand. And Iran has a lot of force available to respond to an American attack," Izadi concluded.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231019/palestinian-israeli-crisis-has-turned-mideast-into-powder-keg-ready-to-blow-iran-warns-1114336581.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/kiev-loses-up-to-295-soldiers-in-donetsk-direction-in-past-day---russian-defense-ministry-1114496914.html

Russian Forces Repel Ukrainian Attack Near Rabotino

Russian Forces Repel Ukrainian Attack Near Rabotino

Russian troops repelled an attack of Ukrainian regime forces in the Zaporozhye direction near Rabotino; enemy losses amounted to 85 soldiers and three tanks, the Russian Ministry of Defense reported on Thursday.

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Ukraine has lost up to 295 soldiers in the Donetsk direction over the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said. Over the given period, the Russian armed forces have repulsed six attacks by Ukrainian troops in the Kupyansk direction, four attacks in the Krasny Liman direction and one attack in the Zaporozhye direction, the ministry said. Units of the Russian group of troops repelled an attack by the assault group of the 65th mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in the area of the village of Rabotino, Zaporozhye region, air strikes and artillery fire, the statement said.Kiev has also lost up to 225 soldiers in the Kupyansk direction and over 120 soldiers in the Krasny Liman direction, the statement read.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230929/ukrainian-troops-reportedly-refuse-battle-orders-in-rabotino-due-to-heavy-losses-1113803090.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/lavrov-on-possibility-of-strategic-stability-dialogue-with-us-proper-conditions-needed-1114497434.html

Lavrov on Possibility of Strategic Stability Dialogue With US: Proper Conditions Needed

Lavrov on Possibility of Strategic Stability Dialogue With US: Proper Conditions Needed

The dialogue on strategic stability presupposes the existence of appropriate conditions that are needed to reach agreements that will correspond to the interests of all the parties, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Thursday.

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"Strategic stability presupposes the existence of conditions in order to reach some kind of agreements that will equally reflect the interest and correspond to the concerns of the participants in such negotiations," Lavrov told reporters in Minsk. The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) is still in effect, and Russia is committed to the parameters that exist, Lavrov added.START is an acronym for Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty  a series of documents that implied fundamental cuts in Soviet Union/Russia and US nuke arsenals. New START is the latest in this line of treaties, it was agreed by Moscow and Washington that they will reduce their strategic nuclear stockpiles to 1,550 warheads each. In February 2023 Vladimir Putin announced that Russia was suspending its participation in the New START Treaty and stressed that this move did not mean complete withdrawal. President explained this decision citing openly hostile actions of collective West towards Russia.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/lavrov-takes-part-in-conference-on-eurasian-security-1114490490.html

Lavrov Takes Part in Conference on Eurasian Security

Lavrov Takes Part in Conference on Eurasian Security

Russia eyes security in Eurasia  both from political and economic standpoint  as one of priorities of its foreign policy.

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Sputnik is live from Minsk where Russias top diplomat Sergey Lavrov takes part in conference on Eurasian security. Moscow has adopted a concept Greater Eurasian Partnership, introduced by Russian President Vladimir Putin in late 2015 and eyes Eurasia and its security as one of top priorities of foreign policy. The conference on Eurasian security will be attended by top diplomats of the continents, as well as heads on regional economic and defense alliances like Shaghai Cooperation Organization, Commonwealth of Independent States and Collective Security Treaty Organization.Follow Sputnik live feed to learn more!

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Israel's Ambassador Says UN 'So Broken, So Morally Corrupt'

Israel's ambassador to the UN declared Thursday at the UN General Assembly that the United Nations was "so broken, so morally corrupt" that he did not think it was a sustainable organization.

"This week, the UN celebrated its 78th birthday. Yet looking at this resolution and the honorary guests hosted today in these halls, this organization has shown that it is so broken, so morally corrupt that I do not have high hopes that it will make it to 90, let alone 100," Gilad Erdan said.

Erdan was speaking at an emergency special session on the Israel-Palestine conflict at the UN General Assembly, amid a deadlock in the Security Council on the wording of a resolution.

The Security Council vetoed four draft resolutions regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict within 10 days. On Wednesday, the council did not adopt two opposing resolutions, one backed by the US and one by Russia. Last week, the US voted down a Russian-led draft resolution calling for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" and a Brazilian-led one for "humanitarian pauses."
https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/mike-johnson-becomes-house-speaker-gaza-healthcare-system-out-of-service-us-dollar-weaponized-1114486445.html

Mike Johnson Becomes House Speaker, Gaza Healthcare System Out of Service, US Dollar Weaponized

Mike Johnson Becomes House Speaker, Gaza Healthcare System Out of Service, US Dollar Weaponized

On todays episode of The Backstory, host Rachel Blevins discussed current events including Macron wanting Western troops to fight Hamas, and Instagram sued over young people's mental health concerns.

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Mike Johnson Becomes House Speaker, Gaza Healthcare System Out of Service, US Dollar Weaponized On todays episode of The Backstory, host Rachel Blevins discussed current events including Macron wanting Western troops to fight Hamas, and Instagram sued over young people's mental health concerns.

In the first hour, Rachel spoke with former Pentagon security analyst Michael Maloof about the State Department in charge of the Biden foreign policy, the Biden administration has lied to the American people, the Sunni and Shia may unite against Israel. Michael talked about the goals of Netanyahu and his career long goal of having the US attack Iran.Rachel spoke with political analyst, Republican strategist, and co-host of Fault Lines Melik Abdul about Donald Trump's influence on the Republican choice for House Speaker, Mike Johnson is the most inexperienced House Speaker, and Mark Meadows receives an immunity deal. Melik explained how Mike Johnson was chosen to be House Speaker and Mike Johnson now in charge of passing bills for aid to Ukraine and Israel.In the second hour, Rachel spoke with Palestinian Human Rights activist Issa Armo about the lack of calls for peace from the US, the healthcare system of Gaza is out of service, and the lack of support for Gaza from the international community. Issa talked about the treatment of Palestinian people in the West Bank and how Israel has mainly killed children and elderly Palestinians in Gaza.Rachel spoke with founder of ProChain Capital David Tawil about the attempts to get the world to accept green policies, Argentina 's debt, and Elon Musk's comments on the US dollar. David described the problems with replacing the US dollar as the world's reserve currency and how cryptocurrency may be the biggest threat to the US dollar.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 in the US at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/radhika-desai-western-press-uses-ankle-biting-yappy-dog-pseudo-academics-to-silence-critics-1114506850.html

Radhika Desai: Western Press Uses Ankle-Biting Yappy Dog Pseudo-Academics to Silence Critics

Radhika Desai: Western Press Uses Ankle-Biting Yappy Dog Pseudo-Academics to Silence Critics

After University of Manitoba professor and geopolitical economist Radhika Desai accepted an invitation to attend an academic event in Russia, she was attacked in the Canadian press for allegedly spreading disinformation.

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valdai

vladimir putin

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After University of Manitoba professor and geopolitical economist Radhika Desai accepted an invitation to attend an academic event in Russia, she was attacked in the Canadian press for allegedly spreading disinformation. Her crime? Asking Russian President Vladimir Putin about the Canadian Parliaments decision to honor a Ukrainian Nazi last month.The Valdai Forum is an event hosted every year in Sochi by the Valdai Club, a Russian think tank and discussion forum that focuses on geopolitical and economic issues. Putin has made a habit of speaking at the event, as he did earlier this month.Desai, who accepted an invitation for her and her husband to attend the event, used the opportunity to ask Putin a question about the Canadian government honoring a Nazi last month. Yaroslav Hunka, a veteran of the 14th Waffen Grenadier Division of the SS, the fanatical Nazi paramilitary organization that helped perpetrate the Holocaust, was honored as a Ukrainian hero by Canadian lawmakers, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, because his unit fought against the Soviet Union - who in Western parlance are often reduced to the Russians - in World War II.Putin said the incident shows the kind of people we have to deal with ... in certain Western countries.Canadian state media has led the repeated and widespread attacks against Desai in the time since, claiming she helped Moscow's propaganda efforts against Ukraine by highlighting how Kiev and its Western sponsors continue to uphold Nazis and their collaborators as heroes worthy of respect, admiration, and emulation.Desai told Sputnik that the Western media deliberately obscures facts in order to provide cover for their governments, which have discredited themselves.But of course, the whole point of the kind of news and scholarship that is produced these days by so much of the mainstream is just totally decontextualize everything. And once you decontextualize it, it becomes easy to manipulate. And then who is the warmonger completely changes, she emphasized.Desai said it was a great honor to be invited to attend Valdai, noting that Russia is in the eye of the storm that is changing the world, referring to the emergence of a multipolar world order amid the Wests attempts to keep itself at the center of global affairs.And that means that the discussions that are going on there about what is driving multipolarity, what are the new problems and opportunities it is creating for different countries in the world, she said. There are people from all over the world there and the discussions there are really fascinating - and of course, far above and beyond what mainstream media in the West and even mainstream scholarship in the West is producing.Desai noted that in the articles used to attack her, Canadian state media cited under-qualified academics as a counterweight to her, calling them a very useful instrument for taking down critics of Western imperialism. She specifically focused on Marcus Kolga, the head of a website called DisinfoWatch, which describes itself as a leading Canadian foreign disinformation monitoring and debunking platform and who is among Desais attackers in the Canadian press.So these are the sorts of people, they are basically the front line of defense of the government - the front line of attack, I should say - the sort of little ankle-biting yappy dogs who kind of try to take you down. You know, they work on Twitter and blah, blah and so on. And of course, our media, the CBC, goes to them to ask them, rather than asking serious scholars who may have studied Russia, who may have written books about Russia - or about world affairs, for that matter - instead they go to them.But Kolga similarly attacked my friend and very well-known politician and public figure in Canada, Dimitri Lascaris, because he decided to undertake, on his own accord, a trip to Russia to investigate what was going on. And upon his return he tried to do a series of speaking tours, essentially kind of creating people-to-people contacts, you know, engaging in exactly the sort of dialog we need to have with the Russians, which is why Alan [Freeman, Desais husband] and I went to Valdai. So Kolga went after him. And Dimitri actually did a lot of research and discovered also that the McDonald-Laurier Institute - for the years where information is available, which is until quite recently - has some big corporations and also the [Canadian] Department of National Defense as its big funder. So you can imagine how - we say that we have independent media and independent research institutes and so on. There's nothing independent about these people.Desai said that most Western governments have thoroughly discredited themselves, but the media chooses not to pay attention to that, but instead to focus on attacking those who point it out.The big story is not our parliament. I mean, there were more than 400 people in that room, not one person said, Wait a minute, what are we doing? Are we doing the right thing? Everybody went off and applauded this guy. And the fact of the matter is, there's no way the government didnt know. Our deputy prime minister is Chrystia Freeland: Chrystia Freeland has herself been exposed to have not only - I mean, nobody can help who their parents or grandparents are - but she continues to express admiration for her maternal grandfather, who is known to have been part of this Bandera group of Ukrainian Nazi collaborators, similar to Hunka, Desai explained.So we are living, as they say, in very dangerous times. And that's partly why I think it's very important for us to insist that there's absolutely nothing wrong about going to Valdai, absolutely nothing wrong in engaging in academic discussion - and by the way, also absolutely nothing wrong in asking President Putin this question. Why? Because Russia is perhaps the country most wronged, or among the handful of countries most wronged, by what this parliament has done. So in that sense, asking -because you know, the whole gesture was entirely to legitimize the crusade against Russia that Canada, along with the rest of the West, is participating in. So in that sense, asking President Putin his views on this, there was absolutely nothing wrong about it. He is the president of the country whose contribution to winning the Second World War is being erased by the Canadian Parliament. And instead, we are praising those who were allied with those whom our soldiers, Canadian soldiers, American soldiers, were giving their lives to fight.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230926/uk-journo-arrested-for-malinformation-after-exposing-trudeau-applauding-nazi-1113677702.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230925/untold-story-of-how-canada-became-a-safe-haven-for-ukrainian-wwii-era-nazis-1113656627.html

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231020/ukrainian-nazi-hunka-charged-in-absentia-with-genocide---russian-investigators-1114352885.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/russia-is-fighting-for-gods-laws-akhmat-spetsnaz-commander-in-mariupol-1114496490.html

'Russia is Fighting for God's Laws' - Akhmat Spetsnaz Commander in Mariupol

'Russia is Fighting for God's Laws' - Akhmat Spetsnaz Commander in Mariupol

A massive battle between the forces of good and evil is taking place today on a global scale, a commander of the Chechen special forces unit "Akhmat" told Sputnik's correspondent in Donbass, Russell Bentley.

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A massive battle between the forces of good and evil is taking place today on a global scale, a commander of the Chechen special forces unit "Akhmat" in Mariupol told Sputnik's correspondent in Donbass, Russell Bentley.During the interview, the commander, identified only as "Sheikh," sharply criticized the values currently promoted by Western powers.NATO countries legalize same-sex marriage. Think about it. Think about what that represents, he said. They legalize sex change, even for children. They teach this filth to little kids.Russia continues to firmly defend "God's laws," as the Chechen commander pointed out, despite the Western world's enthusiastic promotion of these alleged values.We are on the side of good, on the side of light. On the side of the Lord. We are fighting for Gods laws, he asserted.The Sheikh also stressed that no matter what, truth will prevail in the end.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/russian-mig-31-fighter-escorts-norways-poseidon-aircraft-over-barents-sea-1114497981.html

Russian MiG-31 Fighter Escorts Norway's Poseidon Aircraft Over Barents Sea

Russian MiG-31 Fighter Escorts Norway's Poseidon Aircraft Over Barents Sea

Russia's MiG-31 fighter jet escorted Norway's Poseidon patrol and reconnaissance aircraft over the Barents Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Thursday.

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Russian airspace control equipment detected an air target over the Barents Sea approaching the Russian border. To identify it and prevent her from violating the border, a MiG-31 fighter scrambled, the ministry said. "The crew of the Russian fighter identified the air target as a base patrol aircraft R-8A Poseidon of the Norwegian air force. When a Russian fighter approached, a foreign aircraft made a u-turn from the Russian state border," the ministry said in a statement, adding that there was no violation of the state border.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20230824/russia-intercepts-norwegian-aircraft-over-barents-sea-for-second-day-in-row---moscow-1112846643.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/shia-militants-attack-us-military-base-in-iraqi-kurdistan-with-two-drones-1114510299.html

Shia Militants Attack US Military Base in Iraqi Kurdistan With Two Drones

Shia Militants Attack US Military Base in Iraqi Kurdistan With Two Drones

The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which includes Shia armed groups, said on Thursday that it has attacked a US military base in Iraqi Kurdistan with two drones.

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Earlier in the day, the armed groups said that they attacked another US base in northeastern Syria. On October 25, Pentagon Press Secretary Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder told reporters that there were 13 attacks against US forces in the Middle East over the past week, 10 in Iraq and three in Syria.According to CENTCOM, US forces and personnel were also attacked in Bashur, Iraq; Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center, Iraq; Mission Support Site Euphrates, Syria; and Mission Support Site Green Village, Syria.

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SCO members have ample capacities for economic cooperation: Iran's first VP

Xinhua) 10:02, October 26, 2023

TEHRAN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber said on Wednesday the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states have ample capacities for economic cooperation, according to a statement published on the website of Mokhber's office.

He made the remarks in an address to reporters before leaving Tehran for Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek to attend the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States.

He said the SCO was a successful model of strategic regional cooperation, stressing Iran's numerous capacities in the industry, agriculture, modern technologies and energy sectors.

Mokhber expressed hope that Iran would be able to reach bilateral agreements on cooperation and partnership with the SCO member states during the meeting.

Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji, who accompanies the first vice president on the trip, said on Wednesday that his ministry's agenda during the visit will be preparing the ground for supplying petrochemicals and other products to the SCO members, according to Shana News Agency affiliated with the Iranian Oil Ministry.

He stressed that among other issues, he would discuss exporting Iran's technical and engineering services, making investments in the oil and gas sector and constructing energy transfer pipelines, especially for gas transit from Iran to Central Asian states.

The value of the trade between Iran and the SCO members reached 21.73 billion U.S. dollars in the first six months of the current Iranian calendar year, from March 21 to Sept. 22, indicating a 10 percent year-on-year growth, said the spokesman of the Trade Promotion Commission of Iran's House of Industry, Mine and Trade Rouhollah Latifi on Wednesday, according to the official news agency IRNA.

Iran's full SCO membership was approved at the 23rd meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO held via a video conference in July.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
President Yoon Suk Yeol returned home Thursday from a series of state visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where he focused on diversifying economic cooperation and unlocking new business opportunities for Korean firms.

On a four-day state visit to Riyadh, Yoon held a summit with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and agreed to deepen the future-oriented strategic partnership between the two countries.

A total of 51 deals and memorandums of understanding (MOU) worth US$15.6 billion were signed, including in the sectors of crude oil, hydrogen energy, statistics, food and medical products.

Among them was a contract between the state-run Korea National Oil Corp. and Saudi Arabia's state-run oil giant, Saudi Aramco, to create a joint crude oil reserve of 5.3 million barrels in the Korean city of Ulsan.

In Doha, Yoon held a summit with Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the two sides agreed to upgrade their relations to a "comprehensive strategic partnership."

The two-day state visit led to the signing of a $3.9 billion contract between Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and Qatar's state-owned petroleum company QatarEnergy for the construction of 17 liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers.

The contract was the largest ever for Korea's shipbuilding industry and increased South Korean companies' share of the world's LNG carrier orders this year from 74 percent to 81 percent, according to the presidential office.

In addition, 11 MOUs were signed in a range of sectors, including smart farming, solar energy, driverless cars, cultural content, medical services and finance. (Yonhap)
https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/uk-to-establish-worlds-first-ai-safety-institute---prime-minister-1114498088.html

UK to Establish Worlds First AI Safety Institute - Prime Minister

UK to Establish Worlds First AI Safety Institute - Prime Minister

The UK government will set up an AI Safety Institute to test new types of artificial intelligence for potential dangers while realizing all its benefits, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Thursday.

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"I can announce that we will establish the worlds first AI Safety Institute  right here in the UK. It will advance the worlds knowledge of AI safety," he said in a televised speech in London. As with every wave of technology, AI can bring new opportunities for economic growth and advances in human capability, such as in treatments for previously incurable diseases. But it can also bring "new dangers and new fears," Sunak said. AI can be exploited to build chemical or biological weapons, launch cyberattacks, spread disinformation or, in the worst-case scenario, get out of control completely by developing what is sometimes referred to as "super intelligence." Sunak admitted that "extinction from AI" was "not a risk that people need to be losing sleep over right now" but warned that, however unlikely such risks were, world leaders had a responsibility to take them seriously and to act. As the first step in that direction, the UK plans to host the worlds first ever Global AI Safety Summit next week, at Bletchley Park in Milton Keynes. Sunak said he had invited China as one of the worlds leading AI powers.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/us-activists-visit-congressional-offices-of-lawmakers-who-signed-mideast-ceasefire-resolution-1114488615.html

US Activists Visit Congressional Offices of Lawmakers Who Signed Mideast Ceasefire Resolution

US Activists Visit Congressional Offices of Lawmakers Who Signed Mideast Ceasefire Resolution

Some two dozen US peace activists gathered outside the US Capitol and then visited lawmakers' offices to urge them to sign the Ceasefire Now Resolution and thank those who have backed it, a Sputnik correspondent reported.

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The activists stopped by the offices of US Reps. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Summer Lee, (D-PA) Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), to thank them for supporting the resolution, the correspondent said. The peace action was organized by the US Jewish group IfNotNow. On October 16, a group of US House Democratic lawmakers said they introduced a resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as well as for the provision of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza. The resolution was backed by House Democrats, including Bowman, Ocasio-Cortez and fellow Reps. Cori Bush (D-MO), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) and Ilhan Omar (D-MN).Various groups, including the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, Council on American Islamic Relations and Jewish Voice for Peace Action, have expressed support for the resolution. Several hundred peace activists rallied on Capitol Hill calling for a ceasefire and an end of Israel's military activities against the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip. At least 49 peace activists were arrested in Congress, IfNotNow said via X, formerly known as Twitter. Last Wednesday, peace activists calling for a ceasefire entered the Cannon House Office Building to express their views to lawmakers and the pubic. The authorities arrested more than 400 activists.

https://sputnikglobe.com/20231019/not-in-our-name-hundreds-of-protesters-demand-israeli-ceasefire-on-capitol-hill-dozens-arrested-1114306067.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/us-government-sued-for-censorship-obama-speaks-out-on-gaza-conflict-1114487716.html

US Government Sued for Censorship; Obama Speaks Out on Gaza Conflict

US Government Sued for Censorship; Obama Speaks Out on Gaza Conflict

Consortiumnes.com, a news website, has filed suit against the US government and a censorship organization for violating its First Amendment rights.

2023-10-26T04:01+0000

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US Government Sued For Censorship; Obama Speaks Out on Gaza Conflict Consortiumnes.com, a News website, has filed suit against the US government and a censorship organization for violating its First Amendment rights.

Robert Fantina, journalist and Palestine activist, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Leaders of the Axis of Resistance movement in the Middle East have met to discuss their future actions regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict. Robert Fantina says that the resistance movement comprises several organizations, and losses by those organizations will only increase its membership. Also, he says that the two-state solution has always been the plan, and the US and Israel have blocked it.Mark Sleboda, Moscow-based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss Ukraine. Russia's new anti-aircraft system has downed 24 Ukrainian jets in five days. Mark Sleboda says that a new hypersonic air-to-air missile with a range of 400 kilometers gives Russia air superiority far into Ukrainian airspace. This has cost Ukraine several aircraft that were gifted from Eastern European nations.Joe Lauria, editor-in-chief at Consortium News and Bruce Afran, Consortium News's attorney, join us to discuss the lawsuit against the US government. Consortiumnews.com, a news website, has filed suit against the US government and a censorship organization for violating its First Amendment rights.Dr. David Oualaalou, international geopolitical consultant, veteran, and author of many books, including "The Dynamics of Russia's Geopolitics: Remaking the Global Order," international security analyst, and host of the "Geopolitics in Conflict" Show on YT, joins us to US foreign policy. Joe Biden has revived the "axis of evil" ploy as he links Hamas with Russia, Iran, and North Korea. Dr Oualaalou says that the president's speech was absurd. Also, President Biden still lives in the unipolar past, and much of his rhetoric is about securing funding from Congress. Additionally, he believes that the Biden administration wants to prevent infrastructure projects between Iran, China, and Iran.Dr. Nicolai Petro, Professor of Political Science at the University of Rhode Island, joins us to discuss international peace proposals. Dr. Petro tells us that late Sergei Sivokho was a great Ukrainian peace activist who worked for peace and believed the nation could reconcile its differences. Additionally, he explains that some issues agreed upon before the Ukraine conflict demonstrate the potential for a peaceful reconciliation between the warring sides.Dr. Radhika Desai, author and professor in the Department of Political Studies and Director of the Geopolitical Economy Research Group at the University of Manitoba in Canada, joins us to discuss censorship. The Canadian press has attacked Dr. Radhika Desai for visiting Russia and participating in an international event. Dr. Desai says that we claim free speech and academic freedom, but the spectrum of debate has been massively narrowing. She says that the authorities authorize think tanks to attack those who take positions in opposition to the mainstream narrative.George Koo, journalist, social activist, and international business consultant, joins us to discuss Asia. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be meeting with the Governor of California in a sign that President Biden may be getting pushed aside as an international negotiator. George says that this was a brilliantly timed trip to China. Newsome worked with China when he was the mayor of San Francisco. He is also positioning himself to make a positive impact on US-China relations.Maru Mora-Villapando, community organizer, political analyst, and consultant, joins us to discuss Venezuela. Venezuela is celebrating the relaxation of sanctions against its oil industry, and several nations are coming together to fight against the sanctions against it. Maru argues that this shows that the people in the region have been able to elect leaders that reflect their opinions. Also, she argues that the President of Mexico is brave in his actions, but internally, he struggles to deal with migration issues.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 in the US at 105.5FM, 104.7FM, 102.9FM, 1390AM, 1140AM

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/watch-chinese-warship-protest-provocative-maneuver-by-us-navy-destroyer-1114510714.html

Watch Chinese Warship Protest Provocative Maneuver by US Navy Destroyer

Watch Chinese Warship Protest Provocative Maneuver by US Navy Destroyer

In response to the Pentagon releasing footage of allegedly risky air encounters between US and Chinese aircraft near Chinese airspace, Beijing has replied in kind with videos of its own.

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In response to the Pentagon releasing footage of allegedly risky air encounters between US and Chinese aircraft near Chinese airspace, Beijing has replied in kind with videos of its own.On Thursday, Sen. Col. Wu Qian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense (MND), presented reporters with footage of two incidents on August 19 involving US Navy and Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) warships that he described as provocative.In the first clip, the USS Ralph Johnson, an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer that is 513 feet long and displaces 9,217 tons, is seen maneuvering near the PLAN Type 051 destroyer Guilin, which is 433 feet long and displaces 3,670 tons, and the Type 054A frigate Huangshan, which is 440 feet long and displaces 4,053 tons.The clip shows the USS Johnson performing several maneuvers, including cutting across the Guilins bow, which forces the Chinese ship to sail through the disrupted waters of the Johnsons wake, and engaging in a sudden acceleration.The MND noted the maneuvers violated the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, the Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea, and the Rules of Behavior for Safety of Air and Maritime Encounters between China and the US.In the second clip, the USS Johnson is seen sailing through a gap between the Chinese warships Guilin and Huangshan, which were sailing in a line as a task group.This video proves that it is the US side that is making provocations, taking risks and muddling the water, MND spokesperson Wu told reporters. We have much similar video evidence, but I won't show them today because of time constraints. What I'm emphasizing here is to pay close attention to where things are happening.That is an impossible task for the US to endanger China's national security while making unfettered provocations. The Chinese military is always on high alert and will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend China's national sovereignty, security, and maritime rights and interests, the MND spokesperson added.The Chinese release comes a week after the US Department of Defense published dozens of photos and videos depicting encounters between US spy planes and Chinese fighter aircraft in the airspace off Chinas coast. In many of the examples, the Chinese aircraft are flying close to US aircraft, sometimes as close as 30 feet, and engaging in maneuvers such as dropping flares or flying directly in front of the US warplanes.The Pentagon said the releases underscore the coercive intent of (China) by engaging in behaviors particularly in international airspace, adding that this type of operational behavior can cause active and dangerous accidents and can lead to inadvertent conflict.In recent years, the US has dramatically increased its military presence in the air, sea, and land near China as part of its great power competition with China as well as Russia. The US has accused both nations of seeking to overturn the so-called rules-based international order, including by making what Washington considers excessive claims of control, such as over islands and waterways in the South China Sea or over Taiwan and the strait that separates it from the mainland.In the South China Sea, Beijing has joined other regional nations in attempting to forge a code of conduct for the waterway, which will regulate encounters between nations at sea based on UN conventions, in a bid to defuse tensions.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20231026/who-chief-says-new-pandemic-is-matter-of-time-1114508816.html

WHO Chief Says New Pandemic Is Matter of Time

WHO Chief Says New Pandemic Is Matter of Time

A new pandemic will inevitably arise in the future and the international community should prepare to respond to the threat, World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Thursday.

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coronavirus pandemic: borders shut, public events cancelled

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"The next pandemic is not a question of if, but of when. And we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. That is why WHO's Member States are negotiating a new #PandemicAccord and amendments to the International Health Regulations, to strengthen the legal framework for the global response to pandemics," Tedros stated in a video published on his X, formerly known as Twitter. The WHO chief also called on members of the Inter-Parliamentary Union to support these negotiations towards a timely conclusion, by the 2024 World Health Assembly. Every year, delegations from all WHO member states meet at the assembly in Geneva. The 77th World Health Assembly is scheduled to take place from May 27-June 1, 2024.

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The Nova Scotia Harness Racing Industry Association (NSHRIA) has announced that it will be introducing a Foal Incentive for 2023 that supports breeding initiatives in Nova Scotia.

The Foal Incentive has been made possible by funding received from the Department of Agriculture for the 2023/2024 budget year for breeding initiatives.

To be eligible for this incentive, the dam must have resided in Nova Scotia for 183 days during the 2023 foaling year and the foal must have been born in Nova Scotia in 2023.

The deadline to register foals by submitting an application form is Dec. 31, 2023. Payment will be sent no later than Feb. 28, 2024.

Please fill out the application and submit to one of the following NSHRIA board members: Chantel Langille at [email protected] or Debbie Francis at [email protected].

Click here for a copy of the application form.

(With files from NSHRIA)
The Scottsbluff/Gering United Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee hosted this years State of the Valley luncheon Wednesday afternoon. Attendees heard speeches from Mayor Jeanne McKerrigan of Scottsbluff, Mayor Kent Ewing of Gering and County Commissioner Ken Meyer.

The event serves as an opportunity for elected officials to discuss their accomplishments from the previous year and plans for the next year with community leaders.

McKerrigan spoke first and delivered an address on progress with city projects as well as plans for the future. She began her speech by highlighting some of the longtime city staff members including former childrens librarian Deborah Carlson who retired recently after 46 years with the library.

She spoke about rising sales tax revenues which she attributed to business growth and increases in consumer spending. She said she was also excited to discuss the citys utilization of its LB 840 funds on projects like the Papa Moon Winery expansion.

She focused on the citys parks and outlined improvements, including irrigation at the Terry Carpenter Dog Park and the addition of turf at Cleveland Field. She announced that the city is looking to hire a parks and recreation director this year, filling the position after it was left vacant for several years, and staff are hoping to make more improvements to the citys parks in the future.

Improvements include the installation of the lights at the 23 Club facility, which began recently.

We have made the decision to use the majority of our ARPA funds to improve all of our parks, McKerrigan said.

She did acknowledge that there is not much of a specific plan for parks improvements as they are waiting until they find a parks and recreation director.

Ewing began his remarks with Gerings city budget for the next year. He said city leaders were pleased they were able to keep their tax request the same, and on the lower side of other municipalities in Nebraska.

He said he is excited about the developments that were taking place on the south side of Gering, specifically with housing and the city having granted a conditional use permit for the proposed racetrack and casino.

He said that the city of Gering has been working with Twin Cities Development to address the housing shortage in the region, which includes the need for 150 homes to be built in Gering in the next five years.

Some of the developments in Gerings parks including the construction of pickleball courts in Oregon Trail Park were noted by Ewing.

The city of Gering I would hold right at the top of having the best parks anywhere in the state of Nebraska, Ewing said.

Ewing also invited up Gering Police Chief George Holthus who spoke about the police standoff that occurred in Gering last month. Holthus expressed his gratitude to Northfield Church and all the community organizations and members who were able to support officers during the two-day standoff.

Meyer rounded out the speakers for the afternoon and began his speech by praising the county staff, specifically County Accounts Manager Lisa Rien. He lauded his board for their decisions in handling this years budget.

He said the previous year. he began his presentation with a breakdown of where the tax dollars went. This year. he paid more attention to what the tax dollars were being spent on.

Im not going to apologize if we happen to go over the mill levy, or we raised our budget, Meyer said.

He went on to say that the other government entities should do the same because he felt they had been good stewards of the taxpayers money.

I think we spend your money very wisely, Meyer said.

He praised the new hires in the County Assessors office and said they often appeared to be longtime employees despite their inexperience. He also laid out the programs that the county helps to fund through the UNL Extension program, including work with local farming locations and a variety of educational opportunities that the program provides.
Gov. Jim Pillen spoke of first impressions Wednesday as he toured Lincolns Total Manufacturing Co.

That first impression came immediately  long before he walked the floor of the enormous metal shop to find men and women representing 17 countries using an automated system to create everything from large trailers, grain bins and chillers  when he entered the South Sixth Street lobby.

It was there that video awaited him. Three-year-old Naomi Stinton, the daughter of CEO Diane Temme-Stinton, welcomed the governor with a heartwarming presentation.

God bless you. Youre doing a good job, Gov. Pillen, Naomi said as the governor smiled widely.

Shes going to make me cry, he said.

It was that kind of day  a day to show their best and take a bow  at TMCO, which hosted a gubernatorial visit by virtue of being named the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industrys Manufacturer of the Year.

The visit came after Pillen declared October manufacturing month, a time to highlight those companies that make products vital to the lives of Nebraskans, while also encouraging students to consider careers in manufacturing.

Earlier in the day, Pillen was at Endicott Clay Products, a company that made it into the final four of the Coolest Thing Made in Nebraska competition, which was coordinated by the Nebraska Manufacturing Alliance and the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce.

Endicott Clay, a family-owned business, makes clay building materials, including bricks, pavers and tiles.

TMCO, founded in 1974 by Roland Temme, has seen its share of change as it has navigated a landscape that features more open jobs than qualified people to fill them.

Everybody is using innovation and automation, Pillen said. Changing how they can do things with the workforce is a big issue.

TMCO, which has about 15 jobs available currently according to President Anwar Rida, competes regularly with Lincolns best manufacturing plants for the top talent.

It taps the Lincoln Manufacturing Council for students who go through the manufacturing program and has a strong relationship with Southeast Community College as well as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Nebraska Wesleyan University.

We try hard to leverage all of those relationships, said CFO Jamie Warren, who has been with TMCO for about 16 months. If youve got a good attitude, are willing to work and are willing to learn, well get you trained up here.

In addition, it is tapping Lincolns migrant community to fill out a workforce thats more than 230 strong.

So its really interesting because I think you can really study the history of immigration in Lincoln by studying our workforce, Temme-Stinton said. People come in waves in terms of immigration and refugees, so most recently we have hired Afghanis, Ukrainians, Syrians and Iraqis.

Those migrants and refugees have meshed with others from places like Vietnam and Sudan, to name just a few, to form a cohesive unit, she said.

Pillen said legal immigration is important in filling jobs.

Weve had immigrants coming into the state of Nebraska since our beginning, Pillen said. So Im a big-time believer that we need to have legal immigration.
The potential change of government and other domestic political factors could pose risks to the sustainability of agreements from this year's landmark summit among Korea, the United States and Japan, experts said Wednesday.

At a forum in Washington, prominent experts discussed efforts to institutionalize three-way cooperation delineated in the agreements that President Yoon Suk Yeol and his U.S. and Japanese counterparts, Joe Biden and Fumio Kishida, reached at the Camp David summit in August.

The three leaders' first stand-alone summit produced a set of agreements, including the "commitment to consult" each other in the event of a common threat, the regularization of high-level meetings and of trilateral military exercises.

Experts said that should Biden lose to former President Donald Trump, a potential Republican contender, in next year's presidential election, the change of government could augur ill for security cooperation among Seoul, Washington and Tokyo.

"If Trump were elected, it does not bode well also for trilateral cooperation because we know that his attitudes about alliances," Andrew Yeo, a senior fellow and the SK-Korea Foundation chair at the Brookings Institution's Center for East Asia Policy Studies, said at the forum jointly hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations and the Sejong Institute.

Yeo pointed to Trump's view about "expensive" military exercises with U.S. allies.

"Trump thinks that these things are too expensive ... Why are we paying for them? Why do we need to do this?" he said. "I think that could spell trouble for trilateral cooperation."

During his presidency from 2017-2021, Trump was seen as taking a "transactional" approach to allies as seen during his campaign-trail accusation of Korea as a "free rider." That approach changed as Biden sees regional allies as "strategic assets."

Lee Sang-hyun, president of the Sejong Institute, noted that political liberals in Seoul have a "harsh" stance against Japan, suggesting that historical grievances stemming from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule of the Korean Peninsula could hamper three-way cooperation.

"Liberals have always heavily criticized Japan for the past historical issues," he said. "That is why my concern is that domestic politics will make the most challenge issue in implementing trilateral cooperation."

Experts also discussed how to ensure durability of trilateral cooperation among the three countries while noting the possibility of major policy shifts that come with a change of government in any democracy.

Kim Jae-chun, the dean of the Graduate School of International Studies at Seoul's Sogang University, stressed the importance of building domestic public support for trilateral cooperation enshrined in the Camp David summit agreements.

"I think it is very important for each country to mobilize strong and lasting popular support for trilateral cooperation," he said.

"If there is popular support, even populist leaders will have hard time to nullify these security cooperative measures. I mean, I think populist leaders would go along with these popular sentiments," he added.

Participants agreed that the Camp David summit brought the level of trilateral cooperation to a new high.

"We are no longer in the space of building trust or restoring relations. We are actually now in a much different place for this trilateral," said Shelia Smith, John E. Merow senior fellow for Asia-Pacific Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. (Yonhap)
We would love to hear your thoughts...

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When voters cast their ballot in the Nov. 7 general election, for Smyth County Clerk of Court, theyll have a choice between incumbent John Graham, a Democrat, and Eric Stingy Davidson, a Republican and a newcomer to political candidacy.

County court clerks serve an eight-year term as opposed to other constitutional officers who serve four-year terms.

In order to help voters make their decision, the News & Messenger presented identical questions to the candidates, limiting their individual question responses to 250 words. In cases where they exceeded that limit, their responses were edited. Otherwise, editing was limited to correcting obvious typos.

In upcoming editions, well share our Q&As with candidates in other local races who are on the ballot.

Clerk of Court

Eric Stingy Davidson

Please share your education, professional, civic experience, and other background that you would like voters to know.

Education  Northwood High School and VHCC associate degree in police science.

23 years in law enforcement.

Saltville Police Dept.: patrolman, DARE instructor, Narcotics investigator.

Smyth County Sheriffs Office: Patrol deputy, corporal, SOVA ICAC Task Force Member (Southern Virginia Internet Crimes Against Children), School Resource Officer, Sergeant, Dive Team member, and Court House Security Supervisor, General instructor and RADAR instructor.

Saltville Volunteer Fire Department: One of the founding members of the Special Operations Division/Dive Team and Rope Rescue.

Why are you seeking this office?

I have over 23 years of service in Smyth County as a law enforcement officer. My entire career has been in public service. I hope to continue my public service by serving the citizens as the next Clerk of Circuit Court for Smyth County. My experience as a law enforcement officer has provided me with the necessary knowledge in much of how the circuit court operates. My career has also provided me the opportunity to interact with a wide array of citizens from all different types of backgrounds and perspectives. I believe this knowledge and experience would lend itself well to the position of Clerk of Court. I also believe a fresh perspective and commitment to teamwork is needed in the Clerks Office. The Clerks Office needs to be more modernized to better serve and relieve burdens from the citizens of Smyth County.

How do you see the clerk of courts office best serving the community?

The Clerks Office is the center of the community and the historical archive for Smyth County. Many priceless records are kept in the office that are needed by generations past, present, and future. Our citizens rely upon the services provided by the office on almost a daily basis. From lifes happy events (such as getting a marriage license) to lifes sad events (such as getting a will probated for a departed loved one), the Clerk needs to ensure services are conveniently available and accessible to citizens. I will explore ways to improve access to services that are efficient and effective. One example is to partner with the Sheriffs Office to provide the opportunity for citizens who take the concealed handgun permit training offered by the Sheriffs Office to apply for their permit during the training. This will save citizens time and effort. I will also ensure that the office is highly trained and provides prompt and courteous customer service to the citizens of Smyth County. Smyth County deserves a high performing team in the Clerks Office.

How do you see the clerks office evolving to best serve citizens?

Being innovative and creative are imperative for the Clerk. With changes in technology it is key that the office adapts. I will explore ways to make access to records more accessible to the public and improve upon ways citizens can submit information for needed services. Of course, traditional services will be maintained and improved upon for those who would prefer to do their business through non-electronic means. I will treat all those who need the services of the Clerks Office with the utmost respect. It does not matter if you are rich or poor I can guarantee you that you will be treated the way I would want to be treated. Additionally, as Clerk, my team and I will work cohesively for the betterment of Smyth County and its citizens.

What else would you like voters to know?

It is time for a change in Smyth County and a vote for me really is putting our people over politics.

John Graham

Please share your education, professional, civic experience, and other background that you would like voters to know.

In my work as clerk, not a day goes by without an opportunity to use my legal knowledge and training to help people. While it seems self-evident, it helps to have a clerk with lawyering skills who knows how to figure out the law, because every day a novel, off-the-wall issue is apt to present itself, and that new issue is of critical significance to at least some of our fellow citizens. Simply put, experience and legal knowledge matter, and thats the most significant advantage that I bring to the office: 13 years of experience as clerk and 24 years as a lawyer. When people are going through a time of need, they dont come to the courthouse hoping to be helped by a partisan politician; they want to be helped by someone with experience  someone who knows what to do  and who will treat them with respect and kindness. My goal is to provide that kind of service to every person who walks in the door of the clerks office.

Why are you seeking this office?

Simply put, I love my work as clerk. I love Smyth County, its rich history, its people and towns. I love my community, and being clerk gives me a way to serve my community in creative ways.

But loving my job and this community is not the only reason I ask for support: I am well-suited for the job. As a lawyer with 24 years of experience, 13 of those as clerk, I bring a needed skillset, as clerks have to decipher the law every day. The types of questions we hear include Is this a valid will, even though its just signed Love, Mom? How much is the recording fee for this mortgage, even though the value of the property is less than the loan amount? Theres a person at the front counter who wants to declare their own sovereignty and file an Act of Reaffirmation of Character and Renunciation of Attempted Expatriation. Can they do that? This is a sampling of issues that come up, and it helps to be a lawyer with the skills to figure out the answers.

I have also been a part-time pastor for 28 years and with that comes a concern for people. While it affects all that I do, this background is most helpful when assisting a grieving family. When a family has lost a loved one, oftentimes the survivors are overwhelmed and feel lost about what to do. With my legal experience and pastoral care, I am uniquely positioned to help.

How do you see the clerk of courts office best serving the community?

In addition to official duties, all elected officials should be engaged in the community, identifying needs and then leading local efforts to address those needs, and working alongside neighbors to make Smyth County the best possible place to live, work, play, and raise a family. Thats one of the lasting life lessons taught by my parents: make a difference in your community.

In 2002, I worked alongside other pastors in Chilhowie and started Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, which helps put food on the table of neighbors in need. In 2013 as chair of a committee of the Smyth County Community Foundation, I helped establish the milestones that guided the capstone gift of $5.6 million to Emory & Henry College to start its School of Health Sciences. In 2019 as chair of the Smyth County Community Foundation, I helped lead the effort to establish the Saltville Wellness Center. Presently, I am working with other community leaders to start a residential treatment facility for people dealing with addiction and substance use problems, to be called the Appalachian Center for Hope (ACH) upon the grounds of the state hospital. All of these initiatives are making (or will soon make in the case of ACH) a positive impact on Smyth County.

Clerks of Circuit Court, as well as all other elected officials, should strive to make a difference in their communities, and I want my life to do just that: make a difference.

How do you see the clerks office evolving to best serve citizens?

The clerk of circuit court must faithfully carry out the 800+ duties assigned to the clerk in the Code of Virginia, and clerks must ever be looking for ways to improve access and efficiencies, promote justice, and provide the best possible service to citizens.

To attain that goal, clerks must surround themselves with a great team of staff members, train them well, and set high expectations for customer service. A few years ago, there was a time when all of my full-time employees had taken on extra training to become Master Deputy Clerks, and we were one of only two offices in the whole state able to say that.

Providing the best service also means being innovative, and I have actively sought out new ways to improve the customer experience. Most recently, we became one of the first ten offices in the state to implement a system to allow citizens to apply for concealed handgun permits through an online portal. A few years ago, we were one of the first ten offices to provide online access to case files through a program called Officer of the Court Remote Access (OCRA), and also among the first ten to provide an opportunity to file civil cases electronically through an online portal. My first big undertaking as clerk was to digitize our entire collection of deeds, which we followed up by creating digital images of all our marriage licenses (using a team of dedicated volunteers).

What else would you like voters to know?

If you need help in my office, it doesnt matter if youre a Democrat or Republican, Methodist or Baptist, Volunteer or Hokie, Ford or Chevy you are going to be treated with dignity and respect, and my team and I aim to provide you with excellent customer service.
Kurdish sources confirmed to Athr Press that three helicopters carrying a contingent of American officers landed near the al-Shaddadi base.

Three US helicopters touched down at the al-Shaddadi base in the southern outskirts of Hassakeh, arriving from Iraqi territory. Simultaneously, additional US forces were dispatched to reinforce their position at the al-Omar field in the eastern outskirts of Deir-ez-Zor.

Kurdish sources confirmed to Athr Press that these three helicopters carried a contingent of American officers who had entered Syrian territory with the objective of overseeing the operations directed against US forces by the Iraqi resistance. These operations have impacted significant US bases in both Syria and Iraq. According to available information, the team comprises officers from the U.S. Army and intelligence agencies and is slated to engage in a series of meetings with American officers in Syria, as well as key figures from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

The equipment transferred to the Omar base, as per information obtained by Athr PRess from multiple sources, includes a fleet of armoured vehicles, additional reconnaissance aircraft, and specialized electronic equipment for monitoring and reconnaissance. US forces, in collaboration with the SDF, are actively fortifying ground patrols around their bases and augmenting the guard presence at points surrounding these installations. Aerial reconnaissance operations are set to intensify in areas anticipated to serve as launch points for attacks by the Iraqi resistance.

On Wednesday, American helicopters conducted flights over the region extending eastward from the city of Rmeilan, in the northeastern periphery of Hassakeh, to the Iraqi border east of the city of al-Yarubiya. They then headed southward to reach areas east of the city of Shaddadi. This movement was a response to the recent targeting by the Iraqi resistance of the Rmeilan 1 base, known by the US forces as Abu Hajar Airport. This base is situated in an agricultural area near the village of Kharab al-Jir, south of the city of Rmeilan.

Since the 18th of this month, sixteen operations attributed to the Iraqi resistance have been recorded. These operations involved the deployment of 18 suicide drones and three volleys of surface-to-surface missiles. Consequently, the US forces acknowledged two days ago that they had incurred 22 casualties among their personnel in Syria and Iraq. The targeted bases include al-Harir, Ain al-Assad, and Erbil Airport in Iraq, as well as bases such as Tanf, Rukban, Omar field, Conoco, Shadadi, al-Malikiyah, and Rmeilan in the Hassakeh countryside.

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.
Minister Bou Habib said Syria was committed to resolving the issues of defectors from Assad's forces, according to al-Souria Net.

Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib recently discussed the details of his visit to Syria and the key topics he addressed during his meetings with Assad regime officials. In an interview with al-Jadeed TV, Bou Habib described his visit to Syria as brotherly and sincere. He emphasized that the trip had been scheduled a month in advance and was not related to recent regional developments.

During the discussions with regime officials, the Lebanese minister highlighted several important issues. Firstly, he emphasized the matter of Syrian refugees in Lebanon, as well as the situation of Syrian detainees in Lebanese prisons. Both sides reached an agreement to establish joint committees, including military committees responsible for border security and security committees for the exchange of information. Additionally, they decided to create judicial committees to address the issue of Syrian convicts serving sentences in Lebanese prisons for criminal offences.

The Lebanese delegation also proposed that Syrian prisoners complete their sentences in Syria due to overcrowding in Lebanese prisons, and Syrian regime officials promised to study this proposal. They also discussed addressing the border gaps used for smuggling displaced individuals.

Minister Bou Habib mentioned that they discussed the situation of defectors from Assads forces, and the Syrian side committed to resolving their issues before their return to Syria, whether they are in Lebanon or Jordan. Furthermore, regime officials requested the UNHCR to register new births at the Syrian embassy.

Lebanese Industry Minister George Bouchikian stated that Bou Habibs visit aimed at establishing a mechanism for the legal, organized, and scheduled return of displaced Syrians. He noted that communication channels with Syria have opened, and there is Lebanese consensus on the need to address this issue. There are efforts, supported by the UNHCR, to establish a camp for displaced Syrians along the Lebanese-Syrian border, which would provide shelter for internally displaced people from southern Lebanon in the event of a spillover from the Gaza conflict in the south.

Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs, Hector Hajjar, confirmed the existence of an initiative to establish a precautionary camp for Syrian refugees at the border to provide shelter in emergencies. He also stated that there is a decision not to expand existing refugee camps or create new ones.

According to UNHCR data, Lebanon is home to approximately 915,000 registered displaced Syrians, with the largest concentration in the Bekaa region at 37%. In recent months, Lebanese officials have increased their calls for coordination with the Assad regime regarding the return of Syrian refugees.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
The peaceful popular movement in Suweida has now entered its third month, Baladi News writes.

Protests in the Suweida governorate against the Syrian regime and its leader, Bashar al-Assad, continued for the sixty-ninth consecutive day. On Thursday, dozens of Suweida residents gathered in al-Karama Square in the city center, expressing their demands for the regimes downfall and the release of detainees, as reported by Baladi News correspondents.

The demonstration notably featured a strong presence of women, who chanted a song titled My heart belongs to the country and Ill protect it with my eyes.

Throughout the protest, various banners were displayed, criticizing the Syrian regime and making satirical references to its president. One such banner read, Where are you, Bashar al-Assad? Come out and laugh at us with a speech, alluding to the regime leaders disappearance during the Israeli escalation in the bombing of Syrian sites, coinciding with the Gaza conflict.

The peaceful popular movement in Suweida has now entered its third month, with a growing number of participants demanding the regimes removal, the trial of Bashar al-Assad, and the implementation of UN Resolution 2254. This resolution seeks to ensure a peaceful transition of power through democratic elections, supervised by the United Nations.

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.
Assad accused the West and America adhere to a single standard in their policies, which is a consistent bias in favour of their own interests, according to al-Baath.

President Bashar al-Assad asserted on Thursday that the fundamental element of U.S. policy, spanning decades to the present day, revolves around military escalation and the deliberate creation of chaos. He noted that Europe, which aligns with this policy, is experiencing a deterioration not only in its moral standing but also in its intellectual capacity.

These remarks were made by President al-Assad during a dialogue session with a diverse group of diplomats held at the Foreign Ministry.

President al-Assad emphasized that the accusation of the West and the U.S. applying double standards in their dealings is not entirely accurate. Instead, he contended that the West and America adhere to a single standard in their policies, which is a consistent bias in favour of their own interests at the expense of the interests of other nations and peoples. This, he suggested, is among the leading causes of conflicts in various regions, including the Middle East, where the ongoing conflict in Gaza is a striking illustration of this partiality.

President al-Assad initiated his dialogue by delving into historical context and indicators, positioning current political and military developments, existing alliances, and ongoing conflicts within this broader historical framework before interpreting them from a purely political standpoint.

The President went on to underscore that the core of American policy in recent decades has been characterized by military escalation and the deliberate fostering of chaos. Europe has, regrettably, followed suit, and this alignment has led to a decline, not just in moral standards but also in intellectual discourse. This decline is evident in the daily statements emanating from European politicians and the narratives propagated by European countries through their media outlets concerning the situation in Gaza. President al-Assad noted that these narratives often display superficiality, racism, unfounded allegations, and falsehoods. He stressed that the events unfolding in Gaza at present have reinstated the Palestinian cause to its rightful place in the collective Arab consciousness.

Furthermore, President al-Assad pointed out that the West has swiftly provided financial, military, and logistical support to Israel, which serves as the linchpin of the colonial project in the region. During the dialogue session, diplomats posed a wide array of questions and shared opinions on politics, political philosophy, and the role of diplomatic institutions and foreign missions in light of the current developments.

This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria.

Over the span of October 5 to 10, 2023, the Turkish Armed Forces conducted drone strikes in northeast Syria, targeting Kurdish-held areas and resulting in significant harm to crucial water and electricity infrastructure. Simultaneously, in Iraq and Syria, 19 U.S. troops were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries in the aftermath of recent attacks.

Turkish Drone Strikes Disrupt Water and Electricity Supply in Northeast Syria, Amplifying Humanitarian Crisis

Recent drone strikes by the Turkish Armed Forces on Kurdish-held areas in northeast Syria, occurring between October 5 and 10, 2023, have caused severe damage to vital infrastructure. This has resulted in a significant disruption in the supply of water and electricity to millions of people in the region, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. Human Rights Watch has raised concerns over these attacks, emphasizing the need for Turkey to halt its targeting of critical infrastructure essential for the well-being and rights of local residents.

The Turkish drone strikes, which targeted more than 150 locations across the governorates of al-Hasakeh, Raqqa, and Aleppo in north and east Syria, resulted in casualties, including civilians, and extensive damage to civilian structures. Of particular concern is the impact on water and electrical power stations, which has led to a complete halt in the supply of electricity and water in the al-Hassakeh governorate. Additionally, the attacks caused damage to critical oil installations and the sole operational gas plant for domestic use in northeast Syria.

The city of al-Hassakeh, which has been grappling with a severe water crisis for the past four years, is now facing further hardships due to these attacks. The ongoing water dispute since Turkeys 2019 invasion of parts of northern Syria has already compromised the right to water for nearly a million people, including residents and displaced communities.

Adam Coogle, Deputy Middle East Director at Human Rights Watch, expressed grave concern over the situation, stating, By targeting critical infrastructure across northeast Syria, including power and water stations, Turkey has flouted its responsibility to ensure that its military actions do not aggravate the regions already dire humanitarian crisis. People in al-Hasakeh city and its surroundings, already facing a severe water crisis for the past four years, must now also bear the brunt of increased bombardment and destruction, exacerbating their struggle to get essential water supplies.

According to the autonomous administration, the infrastructure damage caused by the attacks between October 5 and 10 has affected approximately 4.3 million people in northeast Syria. At least 18 water pumping stations and 11 power stations were rendered non-operational, including critical facilities such as the Sweidiya power plant and the north Qamishli electricity transfer station.

These attacks have left these essential facilities unable to function, leading to a complete disruption of both power and water supply services as of October 18th. The al-Gharbi dam transfer station in al-Hasakeh, responsible for supplying water to over 20,000 families, and the Amuda transfer station, serving 30,000 families, also remain inoperative as of October 18. The Amuda transfer station plays a crucial role in supplying power to the Derbasiya transfer station, which, in turn, powers the Alouk water station.

Alouk Water Station has been facing recurring disruptions over the past four years. Residents who depend on the station have been forced to rely on unregulated private water trucks, which are often expensive and provide poor-quality water. These disruptions have led to sanitation issues and outbreaks of water-borne illnesses, including cholera.

Under the laws of war, Turkey and other parties involved in an armed conflict are prohibited from attacking or damaging objects indispensable to the civilian populations survival, including those related to water distribution and sanitation. Governments and authorities are obligated to ensure that people within their jurisdiction have access to sufficient, safe, and affordable water for personal and domestic use.

To address the ongoing crisis, Turkey must ensure the uninterrupted operation of the Alouk water station and allow qualified repair and maintenance teams regular access. All parties involved in the conflict should engage with the United Nations to facilitate the approval of a monitoring mechanism for the Alouk water station and Derbasiyeh electricity substation. The autonomous administration should refrain from intentional electricity cuts and ensure sufficient power supply to operate the Alouk station.

19 U.S. troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury following attacks in Iraq and Syria

Nineteen American service members stationed in Iraq and Syria have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after rocket and drone attacks from Iran-backed militants last week, according to a Defense Department official.

Fifteen troops at Al Tanf garrison in Syria and four at Al Asad air base in Iraq were diagnosed with the injury, the official said on Thursday. Two additional service members at Al Tanf sustained other minor injuries, the official said, and all have returned to duty.

The official was granted anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly.

The news comes a day after the Pentagon announced that 21 service members had received minor injuries during the attacks on Oct. 17 and 18. Iran-backed groups have launched a number of additional attacks on U.S. positions in Iraq and Syria over the past week, but none has resulted in additional injuries to service members.

The reports of brain injuries highlight the risk to hundreds of U.S. troops at bases across the Middle East  and that threat is expected to grow as Israel prepares for its ground invasion of Gaza. On Tuesday, another Iranian proxy issued a statement threatening attacks on U.S. military bases in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has rushed additional ships, aircraft and air defenses to the region to help protect American troops, including most recently multiple Patriot battalions and a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system.

This is not the first time American troops have sustained brain injuries at the hands of Iranian proxies in the Middle East. This spring, the Pentagon said at least 23 service members had been diagnosed with brain injuries from March attacks in Syria that killed an American contractor.

Spy photos of the Syrian desert reveal ancient Roman forts

Science.org published a compelling report that would reinterpret ancient Roman forts in the Syrian desert, initially believed to be part of a defensive frontier against the Sasanian Empire, based on declassified U.S. spy satellite photos.

The new interpretation suggests that these forts had a more economic and trade-oriented purpose. Rather than being primarily defensive, these structures likely served as stops for caravans and traders along trade routes connecting Roman ports to the Silk Road.

They offered protection to travellers from bandits and provided accommodations but were not designed for significant resistance against invading armies. This reinterpretation challenges the traditional view of these forts as defensive structures and highlights the importance of understanding the economic and trade strategies of the Roman Empire in the region.

In the 1920s, Jesuit priest Antoine Poidebard spotted what he believed to be ancient Roman forts while flying over the Syrian desert. He mapped and photographed over 100 of these structures, which historians initially thought were part of a defensive frontier built around 300 C.E. to protect against the Sasanian Empire. However, new research based on declassified U.S. spy satellite photos suggests a different interpretation. Instead of serving as a linear defensive barrier, these forts were likely used to safeguard and tax caravans and traders travelling along trade routes between Roman ports along the Mediterranean Sea and Silk Road trade routes.

Archaeologists identified more than 4500 human-made features in the satellite images, including 396 square or rectangular structures resembling Roman-style fortifications. These structures were dispersed throughout the Syrian plateau, running parallel to trade routes rather than forming a continuous defensive line. Researchers believe these forts served as stops for traders and travellers, offering protection from bandits and providing accommodations but not significant resistance against invading armies.

This reinterpretation challenges the long-standing assumption that these forts were primarily defensive in nature. Instead, they were likely part of Romes economic and trade strategy in the region. These findings suggest that the Roman presence in the Syrian desert was distinct from its more heavily fortified border zones, such as Hadrians Wall in England and the Rhine River. Instead, the Romans and Sasanians may have vied for influence among local tribes and kingdoms in the Syrian desert, making it a buffer area between their respective territories.

While this reinterpretation sheds new light on the purpose of these Roman-style structures, further excavation and dating of the sites are needed to confirm these hypotheses. The current security situation in the region makes on-the-ground archaeology challenging, but researchers hope that future stability will allow for more in-depth investigations. These findings demonstrate how satellite imagery can provide valuable insights into historical landscapes and challenge long-held assumptions in archaeology and history.
The lack of animosity between Keenan Harvey and Garrett Colkitt has become a running bit as they compete for Kelso City Council Position 5.

The two attended Kelso High School at the same time, but in different grades. At the debates and events theyve attended together on the campaign trail, they made a point of appreciating the good ideas the other has and generally cooperating.

This friendliness has been a selling point for both the popular incumbent Harvey, who is seeking his second term, and the first-time candidate Colkitt.

I feel like Im a pretty calm, mellow guy, which I think will work well in the city, Colkitt said. I can take the heat without taking it personally.

The candidates do disagree on the specifics of how to approach Kelsos biggest issues  from where the city should focus its support for businesses to the way to fund road improvements.

Harvey said the citys internal communication is one of the biggest current issues. While there have been major disagreements among City Council members in recent years, Harvey said the bigger problem is when and how city staff pass information to the City Council.

On multiple occasions I, as a councilperson, find out more information about Kelso projects from attending other meetings or from our constituents, Harvey said. He specifically pointed to a contractors presentation about the Catlin and Main streets housing complex that went to the Cowlitz County commissioners before the council saw the full update.

That plan includes two separate three-story buildings, one which would house the Kelso Public Library on the ground floor and the other a community center, while both would include affordable residential units above.

Colkitt said the housing supply was the biggest issue in Kelso. The housing market is being squeezed from multiple sides, with low-income and retired residents getting priced out of apartments and people in Vancouver, looking for cheaper housing, moving north.

Colkitt said the city should build more housing at all price points. He would support more partnerships like the one with Lower Columbia CAP on the Catlin and Main housing complex, plus incentives for more traditional home builders.

Its hard to find a place to rent, let alone buy, so if theres more competition and more price points, that can open up more options for people everywhere, Colkitt said.

Business, housing

Colkitt called the Pacific Avenue blocks a fledgling downtown for Kelso.

To further develop downtown, Colkitt endorsed joining the states Main Street program for historic downtowns, which has a track record of supporting Washington cities. Hed like to see more art and music programs, and expand the citys push to join the national America in Bloom program, which uses flowers to beautify cities.

Look at how (America in Bloom) changed things for Castle Rock, Colkitt said. We also just need more to supplement the businesses we already have.

Harvey also supports the Main Street program as a boost for downtown Kelso but also wants to improve the business environment in west Kelso. The area has not grown as much as the city had hoped after the West Main Street realignment, which aimed to provide easier access to downtown Kelso. Harvey said part of the issue is the overly broad zoning in West Kelso, which allows for businesses that dont create a bustling city center like restaurants or shops would.

In this area that we have dumped millions of dollars into, theres a self-storage facility thats occupying the largest building in the area, Harvey said. Why couldnt that transform into the kind of public market Kalama is working on?

Harvey had similar zoning concerns when it came to the housing market. He wants to expand where duplexes are allowed and allow for larger multifamily projects across the board.
One of Oregons largest labor unions is trying to ban self-service at gas stations just months after lawmakers voted to legalize it.

UFCW Local 555, which represents workers in the grocery, retail, manufacturing and healthcare industries, said the policy allowing self-serve that took effect in August has cost gas station workers their jobs and has not benefited customers.

It doesnt do anything good for Oregonians unless youre a gas station owner or have a stake in a large oil company, said UFCW Local 555 Political Director Mike Selvaggio. It makes gas stations more dangerous and less accessible to people with accessibility issues.

The ballot measure would seek to ban all self-serve gas in Oregon, including in rural counties, where customers have been able to pump their own gas at night since 2015. It would continue to allow some non-commercial customers, like firefighters, to pump their own gas.

Oregon Public Broadcasting first reported on the ballot measure.

Oregon lawmakers voted in in June to reverse a decades-old ban on self-serve gasoline, which distinguished Oregon from every other U.S. state except New Jersey.

The bill had bipartisan support in the Legislature but remained polarizing even after its passage. Gov. Tina Kotek said she received nearly 5,000 letters from Oregonians on the bill before she signed it, with a narrow majority supporting the new policy.

The Legislature had grappled with the longstanding full-service law before, and in 2015 loosened the law to allow self service at night in rural counties.

Under the newest policy, Oregon gas stations are still required to staff at least half of their pumps to serve drivers who dont want to or cant pump their own gas. Fuel companies said they wouldnt lay off employees due to the new law because ongoing worker shortages have already left many stations understaffed.

But Selvaggio said that hasnt been the case, and that the union has seen gas station positions eliminated  though some of those employees have been moved to work inside stores.

UFCW Local 555 is trying to get several other measures on next years ballot, including efforts to prevent lawmakers from meeting in secret and to limit campaign contributions.

The union earlier this year collected enough signatures to mount a recall election agains Rep. Paul Holvey, D-Eugene. It was the first recall election against an Oregon lawmaker in nearly 40 years. The union was at odds with Holvey after he tabled a bill to allow cannabis workers to unionize.

Eugene voters, though, overwhelmingly rejected the effort to remove Holvey earlier this month.

The union must collect 112,000 signatures to get the self-serve ban measure on the November 2024 ballot.
Nokia announced that it has entered into an agreement with TATA Play Fiber to launch Indias first WiFi6-ready broadband network. With increasing broadband usage in both residential and enterprise areas, there is significant demand for new, high-capacity broadband connections. To meet this demand, broadband networks need future proof fiber and in-home solutions that can scale in line with evolving end-customer needs.

Nokia will supply TATA Play Fiber with a range of fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) and Wi-Fi gear to support its broadband network expansion across India. Specifically, Nokia will provide its state-of-the-art Optical Line Terminal (OLT), Optical Network Terminal (ONT) with Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi mesh Beacons.

With Wi-Fi 6 Tata Play Fiber can offer differentiated services and deliver a rich, indoor user experience for its customers. The new deployment provides an intelligent mesh Wi-Fi 6 solution that allows users to enjoy high-speed internet in every corner of the home. The easy-to-install solution supports low-latency applications such as gaming and can deliver gigabit speeds to multiple devices on the Wi-Fi network. Network security is also enhanced with support for the WPA3 standard.

A key feature of the Nokia solution is its Mesh technology which will ensure seamless coverage for large customer premises and areas with barriers like concrete walls. Nokias WiFi 6 mesh technology is ideally suited to residential homes with large and/or multi-floor spaces, as well as for SOHO enterprises, which represent a large addressable market in India. Another differentiating feature of the Nokia solution is the use of its AI/ML software to identify traffic patterns, faults and potential outages in the GPON network so as to optimize the end user experience.

Anand N Sahai, CEO at Tata Play Fiber, said, Our partnership with Nokia allows us to bring Wifi6-ready network to our customers  which is a first in the category. The deployment of this next generation best-in-class optical networking solution will boost up speed & coverage for multiple smart gadgets in all tech-dependent homes and enterprises.

Vinish Bawa, Head of Enterprise, Webscale & Emerging business, India, at Nokia, said, Nokia has been the world leader in optical line terminal (OLT) technologies, and we are proud to be a close partner for Tata Play Fiber in India. This deal is an extension of the work we have already done together and will also notch up a first for India by upgrading the network to be WiFi 6 ready.
Minister apologizes for Jamboree controversy, but says it was not fiasco
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A research team member who is blind uses acoustic touch to locate and reach for an item on the table. Credit: Lil Deverell (co-author) at the Motion Platform and Mixed Reality Lab in Techlab at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Australia, CC-BY 4.0

Australian researchers have developed cutting-edge technology known as "acoustic touch" that helps people "see" using sound. The technology has the potential to transform the lives of those who are blind or have low vision.

About 39 million people worldwide are blind, according to the World Health Organization, and an additional 246 million people live with low vision, impacting their ability to participate in everyday life activities.

The next generation smart glasses, which translate visual information into distinct sound icons, were developed by researchers from the University of Technology Sydney and the University of Sydney, together with Sydney start-up ARIA Research.

"Smart glasses typically use computer vision and other sensory information to translate the wearer's surrounding into computer-synthesized speech," said Distinguished Professor Chin-Teng Lin, a global leader in brain-computer interface research from the University of Technology Sydney.

"However, acoustic touch technology sonifies objects, creating unique sound representations as they enter the device's field of view. For example, the sound of rustling leaves might signify a plant, or a buzzing sound might represent a mobile phone," he said.

A study into the efficacy and usability of acoustic touch technology to assist people who are blind, led by Dr. Howe Zhu from the University of Technology Sydney, has just been published in the journal PLOS ONE.

The researchers tested the device with 14 participants; seven individuals with blindness or low vision and seven blindfolded sighted individuals who served as a control group.

They found that the wearable device, equipped with acoustic touch technology, significantly enhanced the ability of blind or low-vision individuals to recognize and reach for objects, without causing too much mental effort.

"The auditory feedback empowers users to identify and reach for objects with remarkable accuracy," said Dr. Zhu. "Our findings indicate that acoustic touch has the potential to offer a wearable and effective method of sensory augmentation for the visually impaired community."

The research underscores the importance of developing assistive technology in overcoming the challenges such as locating specific household items and personal belongings.

By addressing these day-to-day challenges, the acoustic touch technology opens new doors for individuals who are blind or have low vision, enhancing their independence and quality of life.

With ongoing advancements, the acoustic touch technology could become an integral part of assistive technologies, supporting individuals to access their environment more efficiently and effectively than ever before.

More information: Howe Yuan Zhu et al, An investigation into the effectiveness of using acoustic touch to assist people who are blind, PLOS ONE (2023). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290431 Journal information: PLoS ONE
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New Mexico Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks at Arcosa Wind Towers Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Belen, N.M. Grisham traveled to Australia this week to attend a hydrogen summit and meet with related businesses that may have an interest in expanding to New Mexico. At least one hydrogen business is forging plans to expand to New Mexico. Credit: AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

An Australia-based company plans to build a campus in New Mexico to expand its research into hydrogen fuel as a heat source for industry, touting a proprietary chemical process without greenhouse gas emissions.

Hydrogen-technology research and developer Star Scientific Limited, which has around 20 employees, signed a letter of intent with Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham while she was in Sydney attending a summit Thursday on hydrogen and the energy sector.

Andrew Horvath, global group chairman at Star Scientific, said the new facilities in Albuquerque would scale up research and development of its hydrogen technology for generating heat.

"Our system doesn't burn gas, it reacts the gas," said Horvath, describing the proprietary technology in general terms only. "It creates an instantaneous reaction whereby you end up with the heat from the excitation energy from those atoms."

Horvath said the company is developing a chemical catalyst system for use in combining hydrogen and oxygen to produce heat directly, with water as a byproduct. The system is different from hydrogen fuel cells that provide electricity, he said.

Star Scientific is currently sponsoring two hydrogen-energy pilot projects in Australia with a food-production company and a plastics-packaging business. They aim to replace heat systems derived from natural gas, reducing emissions of climate-warming pollution in the process.

New Mexico Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham speaks at Arcosa Wind Towers, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in Belen, N.M. Grisham traveled to Australia this week to attend a hydrogen summit and meet with related businesses that may have an interest in expanding to New Mexico. At least one hydrogen business is forging plans to expand to New Mexico. Credit: AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

The New Mexico governor's office said in a statement that the company is looking to acquire enough land to place up to 10 buildings for laboratory research, testing and eventual manufacturing, and possibly qualify for public incentives that underwrite infrastructure investments and job training.

Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, has enthusiastically embraced support for hydrogen-energy ventures to create local jobs. But there's been concern and criticism from environmentalists who say hydrogen presents its own pollution and climate risks depending on production methods and precautions against leaks.

The Biden administration this month selected clean-energy projects from Pennsylvania to California for a $7 billion program to kickstart development and production of hydrogen fuel, a key component of the administration's agenda to slow climate change. Applications that were passed over include a collaborative pitch by New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Wyoming.

Some consider hydrogen "clean" only if made through electrolysissplitting water molecules using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, which also is carbon free, as well as nuclear power. Hydrogen also can be produced from methane using heat, steam and pressure, but that brings challenges of storing the carbon dioxide that is generated.

Horvath said Star Scientific chose New Mexico for its expansion based on factors including public investments in education, business incentives and relatively inexpensive labor and land costs.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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UAW President Shawn Fain, shown at a Chicago rally earlier this month, hailed a tentative agreement with Ford as an historic win.

The US auto workers union reached a tentative agreement with Ford late Wednesday, a breakthrough in a 41-day stoppage on Detroit's "Big Three" car manufacturers.

The deal, which rank-and-file workers must still approve in a vote, includes a 25 percent wage increase for hourly employees, the United Auto Workers (UAW) union said.

Other key elements include guaranteed cost-of-living adjustments; an elimination of different pay levels or "tiers" that disadvantage junior employees; and a right to strike over plant closures.

"For months we've said that record profits mean record contracts," said UAW President Shawn Fain in a statement. "And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered."

Ford confirmed the agreement, saying "we are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our US operations."

Also cheering was US President Joe Biden, who hailed an "historic accord," saying "I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight."

Biden made history in September as the first US president to stand on a picket line as he endorsed the UAW's call for "record" contracts in light of record auto industry profits.

The wage increase in the tentative agreement is somewhat lower than the 40 percent sought by Fain when the UAW launched the strike on September 15 in the first ever simultaneous stoppage of Detroit's Big Three (Ford, General Motors and Stellantis).

However, it is much above the nine percent increase Ford initially proposed in August.

"This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry," Fain said, while stressing that the final decision rests with members.

"We're going to let that democratic process take its course," said Fain, calling the rank-and-file "the highest authority."

Fain said the ratification process will include detailed online presentations and regional meetings.

After rejecting a tentative agreement struck by UAW negotiators, workers at Mack Trucks voted to go on strike earlier this month.

Expanding strike

While the initial UAW strike targeted three plants with just 12,700 workers walking out, the union has gradually expanded the action in the ensuing weeks as it has sought a better deal.

More than 45,000 workers were on strike prior to the Ford deal. The UAW has about 146,000 auto workers in the United States.

In just the last two days, the UAW escalated the strike at both Stellantis and GM, taking down key factories in Michigan and Texas that make some of the companies' most profitable vehicles.

Both GM and Stellantis are currently offering 23 percent wage hikes. Fain has argued the companies need to sweeten the deal further in light of union concessions after bankruptcy reorganizations more than a decade ago.

Following a tentative agreement, labor unions sometimes do not end a strike until the accord is ratified by members.

But in a twist, the UAW said Ford workers would return to their shifts to apply pressure to GM and Stellantis.

"This is a strategic move to get the best deal possible," said UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, adding that "the last thing" GM and Stellantis want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind."

 2023 AFP
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Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivers a speech on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in London on October 26, 2023. UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Thursday that the government must be "honest" about the risks posed by artificial intelligence.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said Thursday that governments must be "honest" about the risks posed by artificial intelligence, as he prepares to host a global summit on the issue in Britain next week.

In a speech in London, Sunak said while AI could bring opportunities for economic growth and the chance to solve problems that were once thought to be "beyond us", it would also raise "new dangers and new fears".

"The responsible thing for me to do is to address those fears head on, giving you the peace of mind that we will keep you safe, while making sure you and your children have all the opportunities for a better future that AI can bring," he said.

"Doing the right thing, not the easy thing, means being honest with people about the risks from these technologies."

Sunak's speech comes ahead of a two-day international gathering starting next Wednesday at Bletchley Park, central England, where top British codebreakers cracked Nazi Germany's "Enigma" code.

Bringing together world leaders, experts and others, it aims to "build a shared global understanding of the risks" posed by AI, according to Sunak's office.

During his speech, he announced that Britain would create an AI Safety Institute to examine and test new types of AI and explore its risks, including social harms like bias and misinformation.

The only people currently testing the safety of AI are the organizations developing it, Sunak noted. They should not be relied on to "mark their own homework", he said.

'Risks'

A government study also published Thursday, written with the support of 50 experts, warns that AI has the potential to enhance terrorist capabilities in developing weapons, planning attacks and producing propaganda.

It says generative AI, which creates text and images from written prompts, significantly increases risks to safety and security.

"By 2025, generative AI is more likely to amplify existing risks than create wholly new ones, but it will increase sharply the speed and scale of some threats," the paper says.

Risks in the digital sphere, such as cyber-attacks, fraud, scams, impersonation and child sexual abuse images, are most likely to manifest and to have the highest impact, it adds.

Global regulation is incomplete and "highly likely" failing to anticipate future developments, the report notes.

It recommends industry, academia, civil society, governments and the public all collaborate to help regulate the sphere.

AI is tipped to increasingly perform tasks more efficiently than humans, but Sunak stressed the technology should be thought of as more of a "co-pilot", that can help people do their job.

He cited the example of a care worker who could use the technology to help with paperwork.

However, the UK leader noted AI's future role in an evolving labor market was unpredictable.

The best way to prepare the country for those possible changes, he said, was to educate people in a way that will properly equip them for the future.

 2023 AFP
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This photo shows the Stellantis sign outside the Chrysler Technology Center in Auburn Hills, Mich, on Jan. 19, 2021. Stellantis plans to invest about 1.5 billion euros, or about $1.6 billion, in Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, the companies said late Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Credit: AP Photo/Carlos Osorio, File

Stellantis plans to invest about 1.5 billion euros, or about $1.6 billion, in Leapmotor, a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, the companies said late Wednesday.

The European-based maker of Jeep and Ram and Leapmotor said in a joint statement that they have formed a strategic partnership and joint venture that aims to expand the Chinese EV maker's sales both inside and outside of China.

Stellantis said it expects to benefit from Leapmotor's "tech-first EV ecosystem" in China to meet its own targets for shifting to electric vehicles.

The investment will give Stellantis an approximately 20% stake in Leapmotor. The companies said the 51% Stellantis-led joint venture will have exclusive rights to export and sell Leapmotor's vehicles outside China.

Leapmotor has focused on the mid- to high-end of the EV market in China, selling 111,000 electric vehicles in 2022. So far it has introduced three EV models, the BEV T03, the SUV C11 and the C01 sedan.

Hangzhou, China-based Leapmotor's Hong Kong traded shares fell 9.2% on Thursday.

Stellantis N.V. is a multinational automaker formed from the merger of the ItalianAmerican conglomerate Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and the French PSA Group. The company is headquartered in Amsterdam.

 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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User registrations and daily activity for each cohort - English-speaking cohort. (a) 3-day moving average of the daily number of users who registered on Gettr. The curve is displayed separately for the banned cohort (blue), the matched cohort (green) and other users who are not-verified on Gettr (orange). (b) 7-day moving average of the proportion of users from each cohort who were active on Gettr on a given day. The percentage of the matched cohort active on Twitter is also shown (dashed brown). Only English-speaking users are considered for this analysis. Credit: PNAS Nexus (2023). DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad346

Following the ban of prominent political figures from Twitter, such as former US President Donald Trump, many alt-tech platformsoffering uncensored speech and popular with the far-righthave gained significant influence across the digital media ecosystem.

In a new paper published in PNAS Nexus, researchers from City, University of London studied user engagement on Gettr, a Twitter-like platform that attracted right-wing 'celebrities' such as Steve Bannon, Alex Jones and Tucker Carlson.

The study finds that alt-tech platforms are increasingly important for facilitating far-right political discussions, and that the success of these platforms can be explained by their dependence on influential figureheads.

For example, following Twitter's suspension of Robert Malone (a US scientist spreading anti-vaccine content), podcaster Joe Rogan's endorsement on Gettr led to a spike in user registrations. However, these migrations can be short-lived. The study shows that many of these users left Gettr when Joe Rogan later criticized the platform.

But returning to the mainstream is not an option for users banned from Twitter. The academics found that users were up to six times more active on Gettr than those users who retained their Twitter use. For those users active on both platforms, the study showed that their content is more toxic on Twitter than it is on Gettr, and that they often share content from news media outlets that broadly align with the far-right, such as Breitbart News.

On Twitter, these users actively target toxic messages at political opponentsmainly Democrats, but also Republican outliers such as Liz Cheney and Adam Kinzinger. Both were recently called "traitors to the Republican Party" by Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor-Greene, an active Gettr user, due to their criticism of Trump's involvement in the January 6th US Capitol insurrection.

Importantly, the study looked at data up until January 2023, before Elon Musk's takeover of Twitter. Since then, the study estimates that approximately one third of the users who had been banned from Twitter prior to the takeover are now once again active on the rebranded "X." This raises the risk that the political opponents of these far-right social media users may receive increased toxic abuse in the future.

Amin Mekacher, the study's lead author, said, "We have seen a sudden growth of the alt-tech ecosystem in recent years. Several of these platforms have been accused of driving radicalization, leading to violent uprisings, as displayed by Gettr's involvement in the Brasilia insurrection in January 2023. Currently, these online spaces are scarcely monitored and we therefore risk missing telltale signs of collective radicalization."

The project is part of the IRIS Academic Research Group, an international coalition of academics from City, University of London and leading institutions including Harvard University, University of Cambridge, and others.

Professor Andrea Baronchelli, IRIS lead at City and senior author of the paper, said, "Even today, many people consider banning users from platforms like Facebook or Twitter as a way of silencing them. However, this no longer holds true. We are seeing a new era where alternative platforms are thriving and benefiting from those ousted by the mainstream.

"To address misinformation and radicalization, a systemic approach that considers the entire social media ecosystem is needed, and innovative policies should be devised accordingly."

More information: Amin Mekacher et al, The systemic impact of deplatforming on social media, PNAS Nexus (2023). DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad346 Journal information: PNAS Nexus
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 soft, flexible robot safe for interaction with humans. Credit: EPFL/Alain Herzog - CC-BY-SA 4.0

At EPFL's CREATE lab, under the guidance of Josie Hughes, a breakthrough has been made in the realm of soft robotics. Drawing inspiration from the versatile movement of elephant trunks and octopus tentacles, the team introduced the trimmed helicoida novel robotic structure that promises greater compliance and control in robotic designs.

With a blend of keen biological observation and computational modeling, the researchers have now unveiled the soft robot arm capable of intricate tasks, ensuring safer human-robot interactions. The findings, detailing both the structure and methodology, are a collaboration with the Department of Cognitive Robotics at TU Delft and were published in npj Robotics.

Professor Hughes stated, "Through the invention of a new architectured structure, the trimmed helicoid, we've designed a robot arm that excels in control, range of motion, and safety. When the novel architecture is combined with distributed actuationwhere multiple actuators are placed throughout a structure or devicethis robot arm has a vast range of motion, high precision, and is inherently safe for human interaction."

Whereas traditional robots are rigid, often making them unsuitable for delicate tasks or close human interactions, CREATE's soft robot arm is designed for safer interactions with humans and adaptability to a wider range of tasks. With an unprecedented combination of flexibility and precision, the soft and compliant nature of the arm reduces potential risks during human-robot interactions. This opens doors for its application in health care, elderly care, and more. Credit: Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne

Unlike their rigid counterparts, the soft robot arm can adapt to different shapes and surfaces, making it an ideal tool for intricate tasks like picking fruits or handling fragile items. In industry, it might become the go-to solution for delicate assembly lines, working alongside humans, augmenting their capacity instead of replacing them. The agricultural industry could also benefit from its gentle touch in handling crops, accompanying workers to lessen their workload during intense harvesting periods.

The crux of the research lies in the robotic arm's novel architecture. The researchers have creatively modified a spring-like spiral, which they call a "helicoid," by trimming parts of it to give it diverse functionalities. This seemingly simple act has allowed them to precisely control how flexible or stiff the spiral becomes in different directions.

By adjusting its shape, they can make the inner part resistant to being squashed and the outer part flexible enough to bend easily. With this special design, they've created a soft robot that can move and act in ways previously unseen, showing the kind of dexterity and soft touch found in nature, like in an elephant's trunk or an octopus's tentacle.

"By observing these animals and developing a novel architectured structure, we aim to mimic this range of motion and control found in nature," Hughes noted. To do so, the team employed advanced computer modeling to turn observations into tangible results. Using these models, they iteratively tested their innovative spiral designsinto a final trimmed helicoid shape.

Qinghua Guan and Francesco Stella, who spearheaded the actual creation of the robot, gave insights into the design and optimization process. "We introduce a specific surface into the computer model, then trim and adjust. Computational methods guide us, helping assess the optimal geometric structure for maximum workspace and compliance."

The result? A robotic creation, drawing from nature, but refined with precise human ingenuity and computer modeling. "In the end, our computer models were accurate to the point where we only had to build one version of the arm."

The advancements at EPFL's CREATE lab symbolize a pivotal shift in the robotics field. Traditional robotic applications, dominated by rigid mechanics, could see a shift towards this softer, more human-friendly counterpart. A patent has been filed for this first commercial soft manipulator, and a EPFL and TU Delft joint start-up has been launched under the name Helix Robotics.

As Hughes aptly summarized, "Merging keen observations from nature with precise computational modeling has unveiled the potential of soft robotics for future commercial applications. As we move forward, our aim is to bring robots closer to humans, not just in proximity but in understanding and collaboration. We hope that this soft robotic arm exemplifies a future where machines assist, complement, and understand human needs more deeply than ever before."

More information: Qinghua Guan et al, Trimmed helicoids: an architectured soft structure yielding soft robots with high precision, large workspace, and compliant interactions, npj Robotics (2023). DOI: 10.1038/s44182-023-00004-7
In a remarkable turn of events, publicly traded crypto funds from around the world received an astounding $61 million in fresh capital on Monday. This surge in investment accounts for over 10% of all net deposits into crypto funds since the beginning of the year, and the vast majority of this capital was directed towards Bitcoin funds.

The timing of this influx is particularly striking, as Bitcoins (BTC) price soared to $35,000 on the same day. Investors are becoming increasingly eager for the introduction of a Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) in the U.S., and this anticipation is reflected in the significant investments made. Notably, approximately $57 million of the total inflow found its way into Bitcoin-based funds, with an additional $5.7 million being allocated to the rising cryptocurrency, Solana (SOL).

James Butterfill, Head of Research at CoinShares, shared insights into the origin of these funds, stating, The majority of these investments have primarily originated from Germany and Canada, with comparatively little coming from the United States at this point.

The crypto market continues to be a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, with new opportunities emerging regularly. This substantial capital influx into crypto funds marks a significant development in the broader financial market, reflecting the growing interest and demand for digital assets.

What Drove the Surge in Crypto Fund Investments

The surge in investments into crypto funds can be attributed to a combination of factors. Most notably, Bitcoins impressive price increase on Monday piqued the interest of investors looking to gain exposure to the leading cryptocurrency. The demand for a Bitcoin ETF in the United States has been a long-standing desire of many investors, and this event has reignited hope that such a product might soon become available in the U.S. market.

The optimism surrounding a potential Bitcoin ETF is based on the idea that it would make it easier for traditional investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency market. Currently, many investors are seeking alternative ways to invest in crypto assets, as direct ownership can be complicated and less secure.

Global Interest Fuels Investment Inflows

The influx of funds into crypto assets reflects the growing global interest in the cryptocurrency space. Investors from various parts of the world are recognizing the potential of digital currencies, and they are actively seeking avenues to participate in this emerging asset class.

While a substantial portion of the investments is originating from Germany and Canada, its essential to recognize that this trend is not exclusive to these regions. Interest in cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology is a global phenomenon, and this capital influx serves as a testament to the increasingly widespread recognition of digital assets potential.

Bitcoins Resurgence as a Driving Force

Bitcoin, the pioneer of cryptocurrencies, continues to play a significant role in driving the crypto markets movements. Its resurgence to $35,000 sparked excitement and enthusiasm among both new and experienced investors. Bitcoins price action often sets the tone for the entire market, and this recent surge has reignited the passion for digital assets.

Investors are drawn to Bitcoin for various reasons, including its scarcity, decentralized nature, and potential as a store of value. As more investors recognize these qualities, its no surprise that they are looking to Bitcoin-based funds as a way to gain exposure to this groundbreaking digital currency.

Solanas Notable Rise

While the majority of the investment capital was funneled into Bitcoin-based funds, Solana (SOL) also received a substantial share of the inflow, totaling $5.7 million. Solana has been gaining attention as a prominent blockchain platform with fast transaction speeds and lower fees compared to many other blockchain networks. Investors are increasingly recognizing the potential of Solana, and this investment reflects the growing interest in this cryptocurrency.

Solanas rise demonstrates that the cryptocurrency market is not limited to Bitcoin and Ethereum. There are numerous promising projects and blockchain platforms that are capturing the attention of investors and contributing to the diversification of the crypto market.

The Road to a Bitcoin ETF in the U.S.

The desire for a Bitcoin ETF in the United States has been a long-standing goal for many crypto enthusiasts and investors. An ETF is an investment fund that tracks the performance of an underlying asset or group of assets, making it more accessible to traditional investors who may not want to directly own or manage cryptocurrencies.

The introduction of a Bitcoin ETF in the U.S. would represent a significant milestone for the crypto industry, as it could potentially bring a wave of institutional and retail investors into the market. This would not only provide new opportunities for investors but also contribute to the maturation and mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies.

The Global Impact of Crypto Fund Inflows

The influx of capital into crypto funds is a significant event with far-reaching implications. It signifies the growing recognition of cryptocurrencies as a legitimate asset class and a potential store of value. As the crypto market continues to evolve and mature, we can expect more innovations, increased investment activity, and a broader range of investment options for both new and experienced participants.
Though Texas A&M Universitys next permanent president has yet to be named, A&M Chancellor John Sharp told the schools Faculty Senate speaker Tracy Hammond that he and the Board of Regents would value their assessment and opinions on the presidential search and whether or not they believe interim president Mark Welsh should be elevated to the permanent position.

Sharps sentiment was expressed in a letter Tuesday that was shared by a source with The Eagle. The A&M System has yet to announce any search committee or plans on how it will move forward to name its next president.

Welsh has served as interim president since July 21. The former dean of A&Ms Bush School took over for M. Katherine Banks, who resigned July 20 amid the fallout of the mishandled hiring of Kathleen McElroy to become A&Ms journalism director.

We need to move forward to obtain a permanent president as soon as possible, and shared governance and opinions are an integral part of that decision, Sharp wrote. I believe the Faculty Senate could perform a great service to our university by vetting General Welsh thoroughly and transparently within Texas A&M University.

Sharps response was to a letter Hammond sent to him earlier Tuesday, which was also shared with The Eagle. Hammonds letter asked Sharp if the Faculty Senate could lead an open search or vetting process for the president position.

Hammond said in the letter she believes a Faculty Senate-led search or vetting process would enhance the reputation of the Board of Regents and System officials as well as validate the appointment of A&Ms next president. Hammond said in an email to Sharp the letter was endorsed by the majority of A&Ms Faculty Senate Executive Committee.

Giving the university  faculty, staff, and students  the opportunity to weigh in on the person who may be appointed to take our institution forward is critical at this juncture in time, Hammond wrote in her memo to Sharp. We stand ready to work with you in a transparent process in any way you believe would be productive.

Earlier this month, Hammond told The Eagle that some A&M faculty have cautious optimism about the universitys direction after Welsh announced decisions on how to move forward from The Path Forward, a Banks-led initiative that brought sweeping organizational changes across campus and created rifts between administration and faculty over the last two years.

Under Welshs direction, A&M steadied itself some after a tumultuous summer at the flagship campus. Although Hammond said there is some support from faculty and administration for him to move into the full-time role, she said A&M should not get ahead of itself and still go through appropriate processes.

The faculty are hopeful were moving in the right direction, Hammond said, but that doesnt mean we can let our guard down because were at a pivotal point where we can really make great strides, both in terms of trust and transparency.
The dubious fiance of two-time Olympic fencing medalist Nam Hyun-hee was briefly detained on stalking charges Thursday, after she reportedly expressed a desire to break up following allegations that her boyfriend is actually a woman with a history of multiple fraud convictions.

Their relationship has been one of the most talked-about issues this week since Nam introduced Jeon Cheong-jo as her boyfriend and a third-generation scion of a family-owned conglomerate, saying they plan to get married.

In August, Nam said she had divorced her husband of 12 years, national cyclist Gong Hyo-suk.

But a flurry of skepticism and rumors about Jeon's background emerged, with news outlets reporting that Jeon had been convicted of fraud several times, including swindling under the pretense of marriage. Jeon was also reported to be legally a woman and not affiliated with any conglomerate family or chaebol.

On Thursday, the police detained Jeon in front of the home of Nam's mother in Seongnam, south of Seoul, for repeatedly pounding on the door and ringing the door bell at 1:09 a.m., saying: "I am an acquaintance. Let me in."

Nam's family reported Jeon to the police, and Jeon was arrested at the scene.

The police identified Jeon as a woman in her 20s.

Jeon was released hours later on the grounds that she is not a risk to flee or destroy evidence, and the police plan to bring her in for questioning again.

According to the initial investigation, Jeon visited the home of Nam's mother after Nam said she would break up with her and fell out of touch. Nam was staying at her mother's home at that time.

The police imposed an emergency restriction banning Jeon from entering a 100-meter radius of Nam and calling or texting her. They also plan to provide Nam with a police-issued smartwatch, allowing her to seek police help in case of an emergency.

"It has been found that the suspect committed the crime after the victim, having learned about her criminal records, said she would break up (with Jeon)," a police officer said.

Nam won silver in foil at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and bronze in the women's team foil at the 2012 London Olympics. She has been running a fencing academy in Seoul since 2020. (Yonhap)
Shares of ManpowerGroup Inc. (NYSE:MAN  Get Free Report) have earned a consensus rating of Hold from the nine analysts that are presently covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the company. The average 1 year price target among analysts that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $84.00.

Several equities analysts recently commented on MAN shares. StockNews.com raised ManpowerGroup from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 20th. Truist Financial dropped their price objective on ManpowerGroup from $80.00 to $75.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a report on Friday, October 20th. Robert W. Baird dropped their price objective on ManpowerGroup from $97.00 to $95.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, July 21st. TheStreet lowered ManpowerGroup from a b- rating to a c rating in a report on Thursday, October 19th. Finally, UBS Group dropped their price objective on ManpowerGroup from $82.00 to $80.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 12th.

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Insider Activity at ManpowerGroup

Hedge Funds Weigh In On ManpowerGroup

In related news, Director Ulice Payne, Jr. sold 1,100 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 24th. The stock was sold at an average price of $77.30, for a total value of $85,030.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 8,620 shares in the company, valued at approximately $666,326. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink . 2.40% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Several institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MAN. American Century Companies Inc. increased its position in ManpowerGroup by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 182,414 shares of the business services providers stock worth $15,055,000 after purchasing an additional 2,342 shares during the period. AE Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in ManpowerGroup during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $3,364,000. NorthCrest Asset Manangement LLC increased its position in ManpowerGroup by 15.1% during the 1st quarter. NorthCrest Asset Manangement LLC now owns 6,213 shares of the business services providers stock worth $513,000 after purchasing an additional 813 shares during the period. Retirement Systems of Alabama increased its position in ManpowerGroup by 6.6% during the 1st quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama now owns 154,952 shares of the business services providers stock worth $12,788,000 after purchasing an additional 9,574 shares during the period. Finally, Moran Wealth Management LLC increased its position in ManpowerGroup by 8.4% during the 1st quarter. Moran Wealth Management LLC now owns 8,133 shares of the business services providers stock worth $671,000 after purchasing an additional 628 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.78% of the companys stock.

ManpowerGroup Stock Performance

NYSE:MAN opened at $68.44 on Monday. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.39 billion, a PE ratio of 15.73, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 6.76 and a beta of 1.65. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $74.28 and its 200 day moving average price is $75.97. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 1.21. ManpowerGroup has a 12 month low of $67.35 and a 12 month high of $92.43.

ManpowerGroup (NYSE:MAN  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The business services provider reported $1.38 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.35 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $4.70 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.70 billion. ManpowerGroup had a return on equity of 13.80% and a net margin of 1.16%. ManpowerGroups revenue for the quarter was down 2.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.21 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that ManpowerGroup will post 5.81 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

ManpowerGroup Company Profile

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ManpowerGroup Inc provides workforce solutions and services in the Americas, Southern Europe, Northern Europe, and the Asia Pacific Middle East region. The company offers recruitment services, including permanent, temporary, and contract recruitment of professionals, as well as administrative and industrial positions under the Manpower and Experis brands.

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Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report) has earned an average rating of Moderate Buy from the twenty-five ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and nineteen have assigned a buy recommendation to the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have covered the stock in the last year is $2,157.26.

CMG has been the subject of several research reports. Barclays lowered their target price on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,950.00 to $1,865.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Monday. TD Cowen reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $2,200.00 target price on shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill in a report on Wednesday, September 20th. Bank of America raised their target price on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,200.00 to $2,570.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 21st. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price target on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $1,950.00 to $1,925.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lowered their price target on Chipotle Mexican Grill from $2,300.00 to $2,250.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, July 27th.

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Insider Activity at Chipotle Mexican Grill

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Chipotle Mexican Grill

In other Chipotle Mexican Grill news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,063 shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,949.84, for a total transaction of $2,072,679.92. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 23,347 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $45,522,914.48. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link . In other news, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,044 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,830.95, for a total transaction of $1,911,511.80. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 23,347 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $42,747,189.65. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through this link . Also, CEO Brian R. Niccol sold 1,063 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $1,949.84, for a total value of $2,072,679.92. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 23,347 shares of the companys stock, valued at $45,522,914.48. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Over the last three months, insiders sold 3,165 shares of company stock worth $6,024,185. Company insiders own 0.96% of the companys stock.

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of CMG. Mackenzie Financial Corp boosted its holdings in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill by 2.4% during the third quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 2,332 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $4,284,000 after purchasing an additional 55 shares during the last quarter. BluePath Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill during the third quarter worth $44,000. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank boosted its holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 23.4% in the third quarter. Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank now owns 15,686 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $28,734,000 after acquiring an additional 2,974 shares during the last quarter. Bensler LLC boosted its holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 0.5% in the third quarter. Bensler LLC now owns 1,139 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $2,086,000 after acquiring an additional 6 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Oak Harvest Investment Services boosted its holdings in Chipotle Mexican Grill by 78.9% in the third quarter. Oak Harvest Investment Services now owns 340 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $623,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. 91.19% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Stock Down 0.7 %

Shares of Chipotle Mexican Grill stock opened at $1,841.87 on Monday. The stocks fifty day moving average is $1,876.21 and its two-hundred day moving average is $1,956.49. The company has a market capitalization of $50.81 billion, a PE ratio of 46.00, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.60 and a beta of 1.30. Chipotle Mexican Grill has a 52 week low of $1,344.05 and a 52 week high of $2,175.01.

Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE:CMG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 26th. The restaurant operator reported $12.65 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $12.25 by $0.40. Chipotle Mexican Grill had a return on equity of 45.85% and a net margin of 12.00%. The company had revenue of $2.51 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.53 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $9.30 EPS. Chipotle Mexican Grills quarterly revenue was up 13.6% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Chipotle Mexican Grill will post 43.07 earnings per share for the current year.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Company Profile

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Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, owns and operates Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurants. It offers burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, tacos, and salads. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Newport Beach, California.

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StockNews.com upgraded shares of Coty (NYSE:COTY  Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report report published on Wednesday.

A number of other research firms have also recently commented on COTY. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $14.00 price objective on shares of Coty in a research report on Wednesday, August 23rd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their target price on Coty from $13.00 to $12.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 12th. Citigroup dropped their target price on Coty from $12.00 to $11.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 11th. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded Coty from a buy rating to a hold rating and dropped their target price for the stock from $16.00 to $14.00 in a report on Thursday, July 27th. Finally, Piper Sandler dropped their target price on Coty from $16.00 to $14.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Coty currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $12.51.

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Coty Trading Up 0.4 %

COTY stock opened at $9.67 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.05, a current ratio of 0.75 and a quick ratio of 0.44. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $10.89 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $11.56. Coty has a one year low of $6.28 and a one year high of $13.46. The stock has a market cap of $8.25 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 8.49 and a beta of 1.90.

Coty (NYSE:COTY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 22nd. The company reported $0.01 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.02 by ($0.01). Coty had a return on equity of 12.66% and a net margin of 9.15%. The company had revenue of $1.35 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.31 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned ($0.01) earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 15.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts anticipate that Coty will post 0.46 EPS for the current year.

Insider Activity at Coty

In related news, Director Isabelle Parize purchased 4,775 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 9th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $10.50 per share, with a total value of $50,137.50. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now directly owns 61,500 shares in the company, valued at $645,750. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Coty news, Director Isabelle Parize bought 4,775 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, October 9th. The stock was purchased at an average price of $10.50 per share, with a total value of $50,137.50. Following the completion of the purchase, the director now owns 61,500 shares in the company, valued at $645,750. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, major shareholder Holdings B.V. Jab bought 3,000,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, October 2nd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $10.80 per share, with a total value of $32,400,000.00. Following the purchase, the insider now owns 451,853,684 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,880,019,787.20. The disclosure for this purchase can be found here. Insiders purchased a total of 3,525,275 shares of company stock valued at $38,061,083 over the last quarter. 5.80% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Comerica Bank acquired a new position in Coty during the second quarter worth about $150,000. Bartlett & Co. LLC bought a new stake in shares of Coty during the second quarter worth about $27,000. Compagnie Lombard Odier SCmA grew its holdings in shares of Coty by 72.0% during the first quarter. Compagnie Lombard Odier SCmA now owns 2,389 shares of the companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. BluePath Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Coty during the third quarter worth about $29,000. Finally, C M Bidwell & Associates Ltd. grew its holdings in shares of Coty by 1,536.6% during the second quarter. C M Bidwell & Associates Ltd. now owns 2,815 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after purchasing an additional 2,643 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 37.10% of the companys stock.

Coty Company Profile

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Coty Inc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells beauty products worldwide. It operates through Prestige and Consumer Beauty segments. The company provides fragrance, color cosmetics, and skin and body care products. It offers Prestige segment products primarily through prestige retailers, including perfumeries, department stores, e-retailers, direct-to-consumer websites, and duty-free shops under the Burberry, Calvin Klein, Chloe, Davidoff, Escada, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Jil Sander, Joop!, Kylie Jenner, Lancaster, Marc Jacobs, Miu Miu, Orveda, philosophy, SKKN BY KIM, and Tiffany & Co brands.

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Fortis (NYSE:FTS  Get Free Report) is scheduled to post its 09/30/2023 quarterly earnings results before the market opens on Friday, October 27th. Analysts expect Fortis to post earnings of $0.53 per share for the quarter. Individual that wish to listen to the companys earnings conference call can do so using this link.

Fortis (NYSE:FTS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 2nd. The utilities provider reported $0.46 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.46. The business had revenue of $1.93 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.99 billion. Fortis had a net margin of 12.40% and a return on equity of 6.68%. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.44 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect Fortis to post $2 EPS for the current fiscal year and $2 EPS for the next fiscal year.

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Fortis Trading Down 0.1 %

Shares of NYSE:FTS opened at $39.48 on Thursday. The stock has a market capitalization of $19.28 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.86, a PEG ratio of 3.59 and a beta of 0.45. Fortis has a 1-year low of $36.30 and a 1-year high of $46.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26, a quick ratio of 0.69 and a current ratio of 0.79. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $39.53 and a 200 day moving average price of $41.79.

Fortis Increases Dividend

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Fortis

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 1st. Investors of record on Friday, November 17th will be issued a dividend of $0.437 per share. This represents a $1.75 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.43%. This is a boost from Fortiss previous quarterly dividend of $0.43. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 16th. Fortiss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 75.57%.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Stifel Financial Corp lifted its position in Fortis by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. Stifel Financial Corp now owns 28,674 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,220,000 after buying an additional 242 shares in the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors lifted its position in Fortis by 2.4% in the 3rd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 10,638 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $404,000 after buying an additional 253 shares in the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. lifted its position in Fortis by 9.9% in the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 3,569 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $177,000 after buying an additional 322 shares in the last quarter. IFP Advisors Inc lifted its position in Fortis by 78.7% in the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 888 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $38,000 after buying an additional 391 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Baird Financial Group Inc. lifted its position in Fortis by 1.5% in the 3rd quarter. Baird Financial Group Inc. now owns 27,839 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,058,000 after buying an additional 412 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 50.18% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

FTS has been the subject of a number of research reports. Bank of America reduced their target price on shares of Fortis from $38.00 to $37.00 in a report on Wednesday, September 20th. Credit Suisse Group reduced their target price on shares of Fortis from $61.50 to $60.50 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Thursday, August 24th. Raymond James reduced their target price on shares of Fortis from $65.00 to $62.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, August 3rd. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Fortis from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $61.00 target price on shares of Fortis in a report on Thursday, September 28th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Fortis currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $56.81.

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Fortis Company Profile

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Fortis Inc operates as an electric and gas utility company in Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean countries. It generates, transmits, and distributes electricity to approximately 443,000 retail customers in southeastern Arizona; and 102,000 retail customers in Arizona's Mohave and Santa Cruz counties with an aggregate capacity of 3,328 megawatts (MW), including 68 MW of solar capacity and 250 MV of wind capacity.

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Howard Hughes Holdings Inc (NYSE:HHH  Get Free Report) Director Pershing Square Capital Manage bought 59,200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 23rd. The shares were bought at an average cost of $67.34 per share, for a total transaction of $3,986,528.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now owns 17,420,125 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,173,071,217.50. The purchase was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink.

Pershing Square Capital Manage also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Friday, October 20th, Pershing Square Capital Manage purchased 23,079 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of $66.95 per share, with a total value of $1,545,139.05.

On Wednesday, October 18th, Pershing Square Capital Manage acquired 49,900 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $68.22 per share, for a total transaction of $3,404,178.00.

On Monday, October 16th, Pershing Square Capital Manage bought 22,046 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of $68.95 per share, with a total value of $1,520,071.70.

On Friday, October 13th, Pershing Square Capital Manage purchased 48,500 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The shares were purchased at an average price of $67.73 per share, for a total transaction of $3,284,905.00.

On Wednesday, October 11th, Pershing Square Capital Manage acquired 20,262 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of $70.04 per share, with a total value of $1,419,150.48.

On Monday, October 9th, Pershing Square Capital Manage bought 48,500 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The shares were acquired at an average price of $68.61 per share, for a total transaction of $3,327,585.00.

On Friday, October 6th, Pershing Square Capital Manage purchased 41,200 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $69.08 per share, with a total value of $2,846,096.00.

On Wednesday, October 4th, Pershing Square Capital Manage acquired 41,200 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $70.26 per share, for a total transaction of $2,894,712.00.

On Monday, October 2nd, Pershing Square Capital Manage bought 41,200 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $72.66 per share, with a total value of $2,993,592.00.

On Friday, September 29th, Pershing Square Capital Manage purchased 38,800 shares of Howard Hughes stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of $74.37 per share, for a total transaction of $2,885,556.00.

Howard Hughes Price Performance

NYSE HHH opened at $67.00 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.55 and a current ratio of 1.55. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $73.52. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.80 and a beta of 1.47. Howard Hughes Holdings Inc has a 1-year low of $58.80 and a 1-year high of $89.58.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Howard Hughes

Howard Hughes ( NYSE:HHH Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 8th. The company reported ($0.39) EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.21) by ($0.18). Howard Hughes had a net margin of 7.72% and a return on equity of 3.33%. The firm had revenue of $223.32 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $217.65 million. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Howard Hughes Holdings Inc will post -0.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of HHH. Mad River Investors purchased a new stake in Howard Hughes during the 3rd quarter valued at about $226,000. Bailard Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Howard Hughes during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $334,000. Beech Hill Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Howard Hughes during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $493,000. Ziegler Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Howard Hughes in the third quarter valued at approximately $512,000. Finally, Zurcher Kantonalbank Zurich Cantonalbank acquired a new stake in shares of Howard Hughes in the third quarter valued at approximately $533,000. 94.60% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on HHH shares. BWS Financial reduced their price objective on shares of Howard Hughes from $150.00 to $110.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price target on shares of Howard Hughes from $94.00 to $90.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, August 29th.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on HHH

Howard Hughes Company Profile

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Howard Hughes Holdings Inc owns, manages, and develops commercial, residential, and mixed-use properties in the United States. It operates through four segments: Operating Assets; Master Planned Communities (MPCs); Seaport; and Strategic Developments. The Operating Assets segment owns retail, office, multi-family, hospitality, and other operating properties and investments primarily located in Houston, Texas; Columbia, Maryland; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Honolulu, Hawaii.

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Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM  Get Free Report) CEO Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.55, for a total transaction of $3,068,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 15,161,166 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,101,216,505.30. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website.

Marc Benioff also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Monday, October 23rd, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $201.68, for a total transaction of $3,025,200.00.

On Wednesday, October 18th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $205.90, for a total transaction of $3,088,500.00.

On Monday, October 16th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $208.36, for a total transaction of $3,125,400.00.

On Friday, October 13th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $205.03, for a total transaction of $3,075,450.00.

On Wednesday, October 11th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $206.51, for a total transaction of $3,097,650.00.

On Monday, October 9th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $206.69, for a total transaction of $3,100,350.00.

On Friday, October 6th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $205.88, for a total transaction of $3,088,200.00.

On Wednesday, October 4th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $201.54, for a total transaction of $3,023,100.00.

On Monday, October 2nd, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $202.81, for a total transaction of $3,042,150.00.

On Friday, September 29th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.23, for a total transaction of $3,063,450.00.

Salesforce Stock Performance

NYSE:CRM opened at $197.06 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.02, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. The company has a market cap of $191.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 123.94, a P/E/G ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 1.20. Salesforce, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $126.34 and a fifty-two week high of $238.22. The firms 50 day moving average is $210.00 and its two-hundred day moving average is $210.02.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Salesforce ( NYSE:CRM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 30th. The CRM provider reported $2.12 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.90 by $0.22. The company had revenue of $8.60 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.53 billion. Salesforce had a net margin of 4.77% and a return on equity of 7.67%. Salesforces revenue was up 11.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $0.52 earnings per share. Analysts expect that Salesforce, Inc. will post 5.86 EPS for the current year.

Several analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Roth Mkm lifted their target price on shares of Salesforce from $242.00 to $265.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 31st. BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on shares of Salesforce from $255.00 to $262.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, August 31st. Needham & Company LLC reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $250.00 target price on shares of Salesforce in a report on Friday, September 15th. Northland Securities boosted their price objective on shares of Salesforce from $210.00 to $220.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Friday, September 1st. Finally, Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Salesforce from $250.00 to $280.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 31st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have given a hold rating, twenty-five have issued a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $241.28.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Salesforce

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Salesforce

Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Forza Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce in the 2nd quarter valued at $202,000. Wealth Alliance Advisory Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce in the 2nd quarter valued at $396,000. Nordea Investment Management AB raised its stake in shares of Salesforce by 18.3% in the 2nd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,547,360 shares of the CRM providers stock valued at $329,387,000 after acquiring an additional 239,786 shares during the period. Verum Partners LLC purchased a new position in shares of Salesforce in the 2nd quarter valued at $210,000. Finally, Independence Bank of Kentucky grew its holdings in Salesforce by 2.3% during the 2nd quarter. Independence Bank of Kentucky now owns 13,401 shares of the CRM providers stock valued at $2,831,000 after purchasing an additional 295 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 77.52% of the companys stock.

About Salesforce

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Salesforce, Inc provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and relationship intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer service and support at scale.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Ternium S.A. (NYSE:TX  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 42,570 shares of the basic materials companys stock, valued at approximately $1,688,000.

Several other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of TX. Citigroup Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Ternium during the 1st quarter worth $85,000. Sei Investments Co. raised its holdings in shares of Ternium by 6.0% during the 1st quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 150,775 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $6,883,000 after acquiring an additional 8,595 shares during the period. XTX Topco Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Ternium during the 1st quarter worth $201,000. Employees Retirement System of Texas raised its holdings in shares of Ternium by 12.4% during the 1st quarter. Employees Retirement System of Texas now owns 61,459 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $2,806,000 after acquiring an additional 6,781 shares during the period. Finally, Lazard Asset Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Ternium by 6,399.5% during the 1st quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 1,060,919 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $48,429,000 after acquiring an additional 1,044,596 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 12.07% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts recently issued reports on TX shares. StockNews.com started coverage on Ternium in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a strong-buy rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on Ternium from $51.50 to $53.50 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, August 21st. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, four have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $47.36.

Ternium Stock Performance

NYSE TX opened at $37.66 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $7.39 billion, a P/E ratio of 6.19 and a beta of 1.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05, a current ratio of 3.99 and a quick ratio of 2.29. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $39.35 and a two-hundred day moving average of $40.39. Ternium S.A. has a 1-year low of $26.01 and a 1-year high of $45.81.

Ternium (NYSE:TX  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The basic materials company reported $3.19 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.96 by $1.23. The company had revenue of $3.87 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.11 billion. Ternium had a return on equity of 8.51% and a net margin of 7.87%. Terniums revenue was down 12.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $4.07 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that Ternium S.A. will post 7.92 EPS for the current year.

Ternium Company Profile

(Free Report)

Ternium SA, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, processes, and sells various steel products in Mexico, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, the United States, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. It operates through two segments, Steel and Mining.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC purchased a new position in Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. (NYSE:KNSL  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 4,389 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $1,642,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of KNSL. Bank of Montreal Can grew its holdings in Kinsale Capital Group by 5.1% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 1,663 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $386,000 after purchasing an additional 80 shares during the last quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in Kinsale Capital Group by 119.7% in the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,219 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $734,000 after purchasing an additional 1,754 shares during the last quarter. Rhumbline Advisers grew its holdings in Kinsale Capital Group by 2.5% in the first quarter. Rhumbline Advisers now owns 58,459 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $13,330,000 after purchasing an additional 1,422 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its holdings in Kinsale Capital Group by 10.5% in the first quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 7,861 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,792,000 after purchasing an additional 749 shares during the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. grew its holdings in Kinsale Capital Group by 1.0% in the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 2,301,709 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $524,835,000 after purchasing an additional 23,604 shares during the last quarter. 83.68% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Kinsale Capital Group news, CEO Michael P. Kehoe sold 4,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $376.82, for a total value of $1,507,280.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 307,117 shares in the company, valued at $115,727,827.94. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, CEO Michael P. Kehoe sold 4,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $376.82, for a total transaction of $1,507,280.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 307,117 shares in the company, valued at approximately $115,727,827.94. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, COO Brian D. Haney sold 1,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $414.60, for a total transaction of $621,900.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer now owns 66,831 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,708,132.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 5,695 shares of company stock worth $2,208,939. Company insiders own 6.00% of the companys stock.

Kinsale Capital Group Trading Down 0.4 %

Shares of Kinsale Capital Group stock opened at $425.56 on Thursday. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $412.60 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $370.83. The company has a market cap of $9.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 43.20 and a beta of 0.88. Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $250.90 and a fifty-two week high of $457.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 0.15 and a current ratio of 0.15.

Kinsale Capital Group (NYSE:KNSL  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The financial services provider reported $2.88 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.48 by $0.40. The business had revenue of $295.77 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $282.01 million. Kinsale Capital Group had a net margin of 22.60% and a return on equity of 29.11%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $1.92 earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts predict that Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. will post 11.64 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Kinsale Capital Group Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 12th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 29th were given a $0.14 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, August 28th. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.13%. Kinsale Capital Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 5.69%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on KNSL shares. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price objective on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $415.00 to $450.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, September 13th. Truist Financial boosted their price objective on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $400.00 to $450.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Kinsale Capital Group in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $395.00 to $420.00 in a report on Friday, October 6th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price objective on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $425.00 to $435.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Kinsale Capital Group presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $428.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on KNSL

Kinsale Capital Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Kinsale Capital Group, Inc, a specialty insurance company, provides property and casualty insurance products in the United States. The company's commercial lines offerings include construction, small business, excess and general casualty, commercial property, allied health, life sciences, energy, environmental, health care, inland marine, public entity, and commercial insurance, as well as product, professional, and management liability insurance.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 12,663 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,827,000.

Several other large investors also recently modified their holdings of MTUM. TimeScale Financial Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF in the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC raised its stake in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 900.0% during the 1st quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 190 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 171 shares during the period. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. increased its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 150.5% in the 2nd quarter. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. now owns 263 shares of the companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 158 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fortis Capital Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 44.9% in the first quarter. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC now owns 271 shares of the companys stock worth $38,000 after buying an additional 84 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Stock Performance

BATS MTUM opened at $137.77 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $8.57 billion, a P/E ratio of 19.35 and a beta of 0.91. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $142.53 and a 200-day moving average price of $142.22. iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF has a one year low of $81.37 and a one year high of $113.60.

iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Momentum SR Variant index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap US equities, selected and weighted based on price appreciation over 6- and 12-month periods and low volatility over the past 3 years.

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Research analysts at StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Greenhill & Co., Inc. (NYSE:GHL  Get Free Report) in a research report issued to clients and investors on Tuesday. The firm set a hold rating on the financial services providers stock.

Separately, TheStreet raised Greenhill & Co., Inc. from a d+ rating to a c rating in a research report on Monday, September 11th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and three have given a hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $11.83.

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Greenhill & Co., Inc. Trading Down 0.2 %

NYSE:GHL opened at $14.78 on Tuesday. Greenhill & Co., Inc. has a twelve month low of $6.14 and a twelve month high of $14.97. The company has a quick ratio of 2.24, a current ratio of 2.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.64. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $14.78 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $13.12. The company has a market cap of $277.77 million, a P/E ratio of 26.38 and a beta of 1.11.

Greenhill & Co., Inc. (NYSE:GHL  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 9th. The financial services provider reported $0.21 earnings per share for the quarter. Greenhill & Co., Inc. had a return on equity of 24.40% and a net margin of 5.11%. The firm had revenue of $71.44 million during the quarter.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Greenhill & Co., Inc.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 1.2% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 791,225 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $12,239,000 after purchasing an additional 9,757 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC raised its stake in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 334.7% in the 2nd quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 452,252 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $4,170,000 after acquiring an additional 348,214 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its stake in Greenhill & Co., Inc. by 2.1% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 429,517 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $6,645,000 after acquiring an additional 9,040 shares during the period. Tudor Investment Corp Et Al bought a new stake in Greenhill & Co., Inc. in the 2nd quarter valued at $6,258,000. Finally, Prelude Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in Greenhill & Co., Inc. in the 2nd quarter valued at $5,265,000. Institutional investors own 61.26% of the companys stock.

Greenhill & Co., Inc. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Greenhill & Co, Inc, an independent investment bank, provides financial and strategic advisory services to corporations, partnerships, institutional investors, and governments worldwide. The company offers advisory services related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, financings, private capital raising, and other similar transactions.

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The Surpeme Court ruled Thursday that a 14th-century Korean Buddhist statue, which had been taken to Japan but was brought back to Korea by thieves in 2012, should be returned to Japan, upholding a lower court's decision.

The decision centers on a 50.5-centimeter-tall Buddhist statue from the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392), which was one of the two bronze statues that Korean thieves stole from Kannon Temple in Tsushima, Nagasaki Prefecture, in October 2012.

Claiming ownership of it, Buseok Temple in Seosan, 98 kilometers southwest of Seoul, filed a lawsuit in 2016, demanding the return of the statue currently stored at the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage in the central city of Daejeon.

The temple claimed that Japanese pirates plundered it and took it to their country.

In the first ruling in 2017, a district court ruled that Japan appears to have taken away the statue via "abnormal" means, ordering the statue to be returned to Buseok Temple.

An appeals court later overturned the decision, ruling that the Japanese temple had held the statue long enough, for 60 years, to be entitled to ownership. The court also said at that time there's no evidence confirming today's Buseok Temple was the same namesake temple from the Goryeo Dynasty, the creator of the statue.

The Supreme Court upheld the appellate decision, citing a Japanese civil code that stipulates that anyone who has held another person's object peacefully and publicly for 20 years is entitled to ownership.

The court concluded that the Japanese law should apply in the case because international law stipulates that the law of where the object in question was located at the point the second possessor gained ownership of it should be applied. (Yonhap)
Stock analysts at StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of TRX Gold (NYSE:TRX  Get Free Report) in a research note issued to investors on Tuesday. The brokerage set a hold rating on the stock.

Separately, HC Wainwright raised their target price on TRX Gold from $1.10 to $1.30 in a report on Thursday, July 20th.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on TRX

TRX Gold Stock Performance

Institutional Investors Weigh In On TRX Gold

Shares of TRX opened at $0.40 on Tuesday. TRX Gold has a 1 year low of $0.31 and a 1 year high of $0.60. The stock has a market cap of $111.50 million, a P/E ratio of -40.27 and a beta of 0.89. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $0.39 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $0.43.

A number of hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Renaissance Technologies LLC raised its position in shares of TRX Gold by 51.9% during the second quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 995,158 shares of the companys stock worth $441,000 after purchasing an additional 339,930 shares during the period. Bedel Financial Consulting Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of TRX Gold during the second quarter worth about $44,000. Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new stake in shares of TRX Gold during the second quarter worth about $119,000. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in shares of TRX Gold during the first quarter worth about $32,000. Finally, Guild Investment Management Inc. raised its position in shares of TRX Gold by 47.3% during the first quarter. Guild Investment Management Inc. now owns 498,000 shares of the companys stock worth $240,000 after purchasing an additional 160,000 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 1.57% of the companys stock.

TRX Gold Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TRX Gold Corporation engages in the exploration, development, and production of mineral property interests in the United Republic of Tanzania. The company primarily explores for gold deposits. It holds interests in the Buckreef gold project that comprises a single Special Mining License covering an area of 16.04 square kilometers and 12 Prospecting Licenses covering 98.19 square kilometers located in north-central Tanzania.

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A relatively new threat actor known as YoroTrooper is likely made up of operators originating from Kazakhstan.

The assessment, which comes from Cisco Talos, is based on their fluency in Kazakh and Russian, use of Tenge to pay for operating infrastructure, and very limited targeting of Kazakhstani entities, barring the government's Anti-Corruption Agency.

"YoroTrooper attempts to obfuscate the origin of their operations, employing various tactics to make its malicious activity appear to emanate from Azerbaijan, such as using VPN exit nodes local to that region," security researchers Asheer Malhotra and Vitor Ventura said.

First documented by the cybersecurity company in March 2023, the adversary is known to be active since at least June 2022, singling out various state-owned entities in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. Slovak cybersecurity firm ESET is tracking the activity under the name SturgeonPhisher.

YoroTrooper's attack cycles primarily rely on spear-phishing to distribute a medley of commodity and open source stealer malware, although the group has also been observed using the initial access vector to direct victims to attacker-controlled credential harvesting sites.

"The practice of credential-harvesting runs complementary to YoroTrooper's malware-based operations with the end goal being data theft," the researchers said.

Public disclosure of the threat actor's campaigns has prompted a tactical revamp of its arsenal, pivoting from commodity malware to custom tools programmed in Python, PowerShell, Golang, and Rust.

The actor's strong ties to Kazakhstan stem from the fact that it regularly conducts security scans of the state-owned email service, mail[.]kz, indicating continued efforts to monitor the website for potential security vulnerabilities.

It also periodically checks for currency conversion rates between Tenge and Bitcoin on Google ("btc to kzt") and uses alfachange[.]com to convert Tenge to Bitcoin and pay for infrastructure upkeep.

Beginning in June 2023, YoroTrooper's targeting of CIS countries has been accompanied by an increased focus on bespoke implants, while simultaneously using vulnerability scanners such as Acunetix and open-source data from search engines like Shodan to locate and infiltrate victim networks.

Some of the targets included Tajikistan's Chamber of Commerce, the Drug Control Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kyrgyzstan's KyrgyzKomur, and the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Another notable aspect is the use of email accounts to register and purchase tools and services, including a NordVPN subscription and a VPS instance from netx[.]hosting for $16 a month.

A major update to the infection chain entails porting its Python-based remote access trojan (RAT) to PowerShell as well as employing a custom-built interactive reverse shell to run commands on infected endpoints via cmd.exe. The PowerShell RAT is designed to accept incoming commands and exfiltrate data via Telegram.

In addition to experimenting with multiple types of delivery vehicles for their backdoors, YoroTrooper is said to have added Golang- and Rust-based malware as of September 2023, allowing it to establish a reverse shell and harvest sensitive data.

"Their Golang-based implants are ports of the Python-based RAT that uses Telegram channels for file exfiltration and C2 communication," the researchers explained.
Valley County Sheriff Casey Hurlburt, accused of insurance fraud, waived his right to a preliminary hearing Wednesday in Valley County Court and had his case bound over to District Court.

Judge Kale Burdick scheduled Hurlburts District Court arraignment for 9:30 a.m. Nov. 7 at the Valley County Courthouse in Ord.

Wednesdays proceedings were conducted via Zoom.

The prosecutor in the case is Nebraska Assistant attorney general Mike Guinan. Hurlburt is represented by Seth Morris.

Hurlburt, 46, is charged with committing a fraudulent insurance act totaling $1,500 to $5,000, a Class 4 felony.

The complaint alleges that Hurlburt provided false information in an insurance claim in order to have the repair costs covered. In an insurance claim submitted on Jan. 24 of this year, Hurlburt allegedly maintained that the accident occurred on Oct. 11, 2022, while the accident actually took place March 23, 2022. The accident involved a yellow 2004 Monte Carlo.

Hurlburt obtained insurance coverage on the vehicle April 25, 2022, from State Farm Insurance.

The affidavit in the criminal case remains sealed. On Wednesday, the attorneys agreed to share the document between themselves via email.

It continues to be unavailable to the public. If the matter needs to be taken up further, it will be discussed in District Court, Guinan said.

Hurlburt was arrested by the Nebraska State Patrol Oct. 17.

Bond was set at $15,000. Hurlburt was released from jail when he paid 10% of that amount Oct. 20.
The Central Nebraska Council on Alcohol and Addictions will host a drug takeback event from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at Super Saver, 1602 W. Second St.

The event is hosted in partnership with the Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriffs Department and the Substance Abuse Prevention Project.

This is the chance to clean out your medicine cabinets and safely dispose of unused and/or expired medications.

For more information, contact the CNCAA at 308-385-5520 or check online at DEATakeBack.com
Teachers are always trying to improve their classes and help students better learn and have a better educational experience.

The Grand Island Public Schools Foundation surprised teachers with more than $17,000 in classroom grants on Wednesday, Oct. 25. More than 4,500 students in the GIPS district will benefit from 13 grants.

As part of an annual program, the GIPS Foundation awards classroom grants to help fund educational opportunities that are not possible with the districts budget. According to GIPS Foundation Executive Director Kari Hooker-Leep, teachers have to apply at the beginning of the school year and a committee decides on grants.

We receive so many more (applications) than we are able to give out, said Hooker-Leep.

Hooker-Leep said that the grants are not given for basic curriculum, but for ideas that are innovative and more experimental. However, if the grants prove successful, the hope is to integrate them into the basic curriculum.

The grants were partly funded by the Janeth Davis Memorial Fund, providing $1,500 to the program. The fund honors the memory of Janeth Davis, a middle school teacher who loved her students and advocated for their education, the GISH website notes.

The program has also been funded through the GIPS Foundation Harvest gala, community campaign and the GIPS staff giving campaign. The grants ranged anywhere between $250 to $2,500.

This year, there were 13 classroom grants awarded totaling $17,111. The grants will help 4,554 students in the GIPS district.

We have approximately 10,400 students in our school [district], said Hooker-Leep. And then, the grants today are impacting 40% of that.

Surprising the teachers, officials awarded nine of the grants on Wednesday. The other four grants will be doled Thursday and have not been announced at press time.

Barr Middle School teachers Rachel Stefan and Bob Lienemann were granted $385 to provide transportation for their students to attend the preview screening for Grand Island Senior Highs musical, Beauty and the Beast. Benefiting 30 students in the seventh and eighth grade, it will help students that are prevented from attending fine arts performances due to socioeconomic struggles and create a new generation of patrons and performers, according to the grant description.

Engleman Elementary School teachers Catherine Klanecky, Jennifer Ehlers, Amy Samuelson and Emily Craw were granted $400 for their project, Portable Planetarium. Benefiting 80 students in the first grade, the kids will be able to connect their reading and math teachings to a realistic, hands-on experience and learn more about the world and solar system through a presentation with the Edgerton Explorit Center.

Barr Middle School teachers April Dickerson, Dana Pavuk and Huy Truong were granted $950 in order to put translation dictionaries in students backpacks to use during class and at home. Benefiting 130 students in between sixth and eighth grade, this will help middle schoolers learn how to use translation dictionaries so that they wont be slowed down during state testing and show their abilities and knowledge of classroom materials, the grant description noted.

Engleman Elementary School teachers Chandra Kosmicki and Jean Vaughn were granted $1,150 to amp up the schools makerspace. Benefitting 475 students during and after school, the project seeks to add new resources in science, technology, engineering, art and math in the makerspace to help create new opportunities for the kids.

OConnor Learning Center teachers Breanna Rose, Danita Stanton, Margaret McManaman, Rita Hernandez and Beth Hubl were granted $1,500 to provide a Spanish copy of read aloud books to each classroom and to the literacy center. Benefitting 456 students, this will allow all students to participate in equitable learning, as well as enhance book knowledge and story-telling skills.

Howard Elementary School teachers Amy Hanna and Deb Glover were granted $1,523 to create mobile sensory stations in each wing/annex for all students to use. Benefitting 445 students, the stations will help to minimize class disruptions, improve focus and increase engagement by giving students who might have trauma, chronic stress and sensory needs the tools to regulate, calm or re-engage themselves.

Barr Middle School teachers Shannon Ripp and Erika Peterson were granted $1,588 to provide students more opportunities to experience the world of forensics. Benefiting 150 students in between sixth and eighth grade, the project will help kids learn to think like an investigator, learn the basics of analyzing a crime scene and help them hear from community guest speakers like local police, state patrol, the fire marshal and firefighters.

West Lawn Elementary School teachers Chandra Myers, Luke Sutherland, Codee Carr, Toni Bachand, Marisalynn Koepke, Anabel Gonzalez and Alex Tjaden were granted $2,000 to purchase a sensory path for students. Benefitting 300 students, the path will help to increase cognitive functioning and decrease sensory seeking behaviors in kids.

Shoemaker Elementary School teacher Colette Sorensen was granted $2,393 for the Let Your Creativity Glow, a social emotional creative art unit. Benefitting 750 students at Shoemaker and Stolley Park Elementary Schools, each grade will create different art projects tied to the Second Step program, using long-lasting supplies and a variety of bright and glow in the dark media.

It is difficult (to choose the grants), said Hooker-Leep. And theres so many that are so worthy.

From the programs beginning, the GIPS Foundation has been able to fund $313,966 and have handed out 340 classroom grants. Approximately 67,442 students have benefitted from the grants, having been awarded to every school in the district.

I think the public needs to understand, said Hooker-Leep. What we are trying to do here is for everyone.

With the classroom grants handed out, lets hope that students will make the most out of their teachers projects.

To see the faces of all the students impacted, it is so exciting, its so fun, said Hooker-Leep. You know, the smile, the joys, the teachers are ecstatic.
Australia, Japan, US deeply invested in Vietnams success: diplomat

By Minh Anh Thu, October 26, 2023 | 4:24 pm GTM+7

Australia, Japan, and the U.S. are deeply invested in Vietnams success and will continue to support it on a wide range of issues like clean energy, climate resilience and agriculture, an American diplomat said.

Our three countries are deeply invested in Vietnams success. We will continue to respond to Vietnams needs and priorities, such as clean energy, climate resilience, agriculture, digital economy, trade facilitation, health and higher education, said U.S. consul general Susan Burns.

Consuls general Ono Masuo of Japan (first left), Susan Burns of the U.S. (middle) and Sarah Hooper of Australia (second right) with municipal officials in Can Tho city, southern Vietnam. Photo courtesy of the Australian embassy in Hanoi.

Burns was speaking during a working visit to Can Tho city by HCMC-based consuls general of the three countries.

In October 24 meetings with local authorities, Can Tho University management, ecologists and the local business community, the diplomats stressed their joint commitment to Vietnam's Mekong Delta and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

They discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between the three diplomatic missions and Can Tho in responding to the Mekong Delta citys needs in business and trade, energy, climate change, health, technology, education and other areas.

The diplomats visited Can Tho University on Wednesday to learn about each countrys partnership with Vietnam in the Mekong Delta on climate change adaptation, pollution reduction and clean up, environmental remediation and other issues.

They also visited the Cuu Long Delta Rice Research Institute and toured facilities researching the establishment of a sustainable smallholder rice value chain in the Mekong Delta. The research is funded by the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR) in partnership with the SunRice Group.
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Let no one suffer what we endured, victims' families say

By Lee Hae-rin

We still have names to remember, reads a memorial plaque written in Korean and engraved on the ground of a narrow alley a few meters away from the exit of Itaewon Station.

That narrow alley, measuring just 3.2 meters in width and 40 meters in length, is where a horrific crowd crush claimed 159 lives  mostly young people  on Oct. 29, 2022. It was the deadliest disaster in Korea since the sinking of the Sewol ferry in 2014.

During the tragedy, a massive crowd flooded into the sloping backstreets of the popular nightlife district during the first unrestricted Halloween festivities since the COVID-19 pandemic started.

Gone now are the police lines, piles of white flowers, letters of condolence and large groups of mourners that overwhelmed the area for months after the tragedy. Only an eerie silence hangs in the air.

So this is the alley, a passerby murmured in Korean, Wednesday afternoon, while his companion replied, I didnt know it was so tight and narrow here.

A few people stopped by to offer silent tribute to the fallen victims, while others made praying hand gestures before passing by the alleyway.

Yuki Yoshida, a Japanese national who started attending a Korean language school in September, saw the alley for the first time while touring Itaewon.

She wrote a message of condolence on a sticky note after a short prayer. The note was posted next to hundreds of others on a memorial wall, written in several languages by mourners from all over the world.

Her colleague from Singapore, Amalina Rashid, stood and read some of those messages. The sound of the word Itaewon now makes her heart ache, she said, reminding her of many innocent young lives that were lost.

Meanwhile, people sat drinking beer in the open terrace of a nearby pub as loud music and colorful lights flashed in the background.

The tragedy-hit neighborhood, long renowned as Seouls cultural melting pot featuring a dynamic nightlife, is slowly coming back to life after being hit hard by the pandemic and the deadly accident.

People are coming back to Itaewon again and we feel its about 80 to 90 percent recovered (compared to before the disaster), a merchant who set up shop in Itaewon 14 years ago said on condition of anonymity, adding that tourists seem to account for a growing proportion of visitors now.

The latest data from the Seoul Metropolitan Government and Shinhan Card show overall spending in Itaewon recovered to 98.2 percent of levels seen before the tragedy. The citys population data indicates the number of people visiting the district stood at over 26,600 on Saturday, Sept. 23, an 87 percent recovery from a year ago.

Nothing has changed

However, despite government-led investigations, the root cause of the disaster still remains unclear, while no senior government officials have been held accountable so far.

Hoping to understand why the accident happened, the families of the victims formed a coalition last year and tried desperately staging a hunger strike and holding demonstrations  to push the authorities to ascertain the truth and to keep the memory of the tragedy from being forgotten.

Nobody apologized. Nobody was fired. Nothing was revealed by the investigative bodies. We still dont understand why our children couldnt come back, said Lee Jeong-min, the head of the bereaved families group who lost his daughter in the stampede.

However, the government does not agree with the claims.

A Korean delegation attended an annual meeting of the U.N. Human Rights Committee in Geneva last week and said the Korean government "ascertained the root causes of the accident" following comprehensive investigations led by the police and prosecutors. It is customary for the committee to address pending issues regarding the safety and rights of people in member nations.

The remarks came after the committee indicated it was a "social catastrophe that seems to be have been fully foreseeable and preventable."

The delegation, headed by the justice ministry's human rights bureau director general, claimed that the government launched a victim-support organization, held regular meetings with the bereaved families to provide support and information about the investigation and plans to set up a memorial in along with local governments to mark the first anniversary. A recurrence prevention plan is also in the works, they said, based on the safety ministry's input.

But the statements enraged the bereaved families, as they could not disagree more, in Lees words.

Lawyers of Minbyun, representing families of the victims, as well as safety experts also believe not even the most basic factual grounds of the disaster were investigated.

The group announced 30 unresolved tasks for the police, prosecutors and safety authorities, Monday, highlighting their failure to take immediate emergency and crowd control measures and a lack of communication with the bereaved families.

As the next step, the bereaved families are now pushing for special acts to be passed, which will support the fact-finding investigation by an independent body and ensure their participation in the process. The legislation is currently pending at the National Assembly and is likely to be passed during a plenary session in December.

Preventing similar accidents

Back in the alleyway, people still wonder what Itaewon will look like during Halloween this year.

I think this years celebrations will be a little different. Will people still enjoy Halloween here like they used to this year? Maybe its too soon, Rashid said, as Yoshida emphasized the importance of remembering what happened, but adding that it's also necessary to move on.

The merchants, although still shaken by the tragedy, have no doubt that the neighborhood is safer than ever with enforced crowd control and safety measures.

The bereaved families hope Itaewon will thrive again with more people coming to enjoy the celebrations this year and later. They know neither Itaewon nor Halloween is to blame for the loss of their loved ones and believe a safer world for the next generation can be built only when people remember what happened.

I hope a lot of people come and join the celebrations as they did before  We should keep our eyes on those in charge of peoples safety and see if they continue to be irresponsible as they were last year, Lee said.

Choi Joung-joo, the father of the late Choi Yu-jin, echoed Lees view, adding they want people to celebrate life in Itaewon and remember what happened in the memorial space to prevent similar incidents from happening and to create a safer world.

On Sunday, exactly a year after the tragedy, the bereaved families will hold a memorial ceremony in central Seoul. They also invited President Yoon Suk Yeol. Their recounting of the disaster, along with that of the survivors, will be published into a book that will be revealed that day.

Please listen to the stories of the survivors and the victims bereaved families again and remember the Itaewon tragedy once more. If those memories come together and grow bigger, such a tragedy will not occur again in this country and there will be no other bereaved families. There should be no more bereaved families, Lee said.
MARION  One large business, Blue Cross Blue Shield in Marion, celebrated a milestone Wednesday afternoon, and hosted a 40th anniversary celebration.

Greg Brown, chief customer service officer of the company, told a little about their history in a video.

Blue Cross Blue Shield first opened in Marion in 1983 and held its first claims class in 1984. Their provider services division relocated to the city in 1993.

They worked out of four different locations until the current building on Meadowland Parkway opened in 2003.

Kim Morse, executive director of the Marion office, served as master of ceremonies.

Forty is our ruby anniversary, so we are all wearing red shirts, Morse said, noting the employees anniversary shirts were not in their standard blue color.

Marion Mayor Mike Absher said about the same time Blue Cross Blue Shield opened, his family bought a car dealership across the street.

He added that almost every family in Southern Illinois has a family member or friend who works for Blue Cross. Abshers mother-in-law retired from the organization.

You have been integral to my life, to Marion and to the region, Absher said during the ceremony. We know youre here and we know what you mean to the community.

Michelle Hamilton of Marion Chamber of Commerce said she clearly remembered when Blue Cross Blue Shield came to Marion. They have had a great ride and employed a ton of people.

Blue Cross Blue Shield decided not only to come to Marion, but they decided to stay, Hamilton said.

Morse also remembers Blue Cross Blue Shield coming to Marion. She was 10 years old and remembers it being a big deal in the community.

Her mothers best friend got hired at Blue Cross Blue Shield in 1984. She was a single mom of four daughters and was able to buy a house because of that job.

Its the same story for so many of us. This was our first grown-up or real job, Hamilton said.

Hamilton worked part-time for BCBS in 1993 and went full-time in 1994. Her real job became a career as she moved up the ladder at the business. Today she leads the Marion location.

Were here for our members. We try to stand with our members in sickness and health, Hamilton said.

She also talked about their commitment to their community. The business supports Special Olympics, Hospice of Southern Illinois, Red Cross, Gum Drops, the United Way and the American Heart Association, just to name some of the organizations.

Kelly Butler, vice president of provider services, visited Marion to help mark the milestone.

I have traveled to all our sites. This is the most beautiful, Butler said. The employees commitment to the community is amazing!

Blue Cross Blue Shield employees 750 people. Butler said they are so active in their community through supporting charities, being involved in school activities and in community activities. She added that the community is so blessed to those employees for 40 years.

Lisa Baker has worked at Blue Cross Blue Shield since 1984.

I started the day after my 19th birthday, Baker said. I prayed I would make it five years.

She said the job has great benefits, but she found another one after she had children.

Work was like a family. We raised our kids together, Baker said.

Baker will turn 60 on March 18, 2025. Her 41st anniversary with Blue Cross will March 19, 2025. She will retire the next day, March 20, 2025.
CARBONDALE  A unique entrepreneurship training program for veterans, active-duty service members and their spouses, Boots to Business (B2B) Reboot, is coming to Carbondale and Cairo courtesy of the United States Small Business Administrations (SBA) Veteran Business Outreach Center (VBOC), co-hosted by the Illinois APEX Accelerator at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in partnership with the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SIU and the Illinois SBDC at Shawnee Community College.

The free, comprehensive entrepreneurial education and training program gives participants the skills, information and resources they need to become entrepreneurs and launch or develop a business.

Our mission is to empower veterans to succeed as entrepreneurs, said Keith S. Murphy, director of the Illinois Veterans Business Outreach Center at the SBA. The partnership with the Illinois Apex Accelerator at SIU reinforces our commitment to equipping veterans with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in the business world.

Both workshops, which take place during National Veterans Small Business Week, will be from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. with lunch provided. The first session is Oct. 31 at the Dunn-Richmond Economic Development Center, 1740 Innovation Drive, Carbondale. Sign up online.

The second session is Nov. 1 at the Shawnee Community College Extension Center, 2305 Washington Ave., Cairo. Register online.

Insights into business ownership, financing, other topics covered

The initiative is open to veterans of all eras as well as active-duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve, and their spouses. The program is facilitated by experts from the SBA and the Illinois APEX Accelerator who will share their expertise about an array of topics, including:

Steps for developing business concepts.

Creating a business plan.

The resources and economics of launching a business.

Where to look to finance for the venture.

What valuable resources are available, especially from the SBA, to support entrepreneurs.

In addition, all participants who complete the course can expand upon their business training by taking one of the many online B2B courses, offered at no cost to service members, veterans and military spouses. Visit sbavets.force.com for more details.

For more information about the programs or any of the services offered through the Illinois APEX Accelerator, email brenda.j.henderson@siu.edu or call 618-536-2355.
DETROIT  The United Auto Workers union said Wednesday it has reached a tentative contract agreement with Ford that could be a breakthrough toward ending the nearly 6-week-old strikes against Detroit automakers.

The four-year deal, which still has to be approved by 57,000 union members at the company, could bring a close to the unions series of strikes at targeted factories run by Ford, General Motors and Jeep maker Stellantis.

The Ford deal could set the pattern for agreements with the other two automakers, where workers will remain on strike. The UAW called on all workers at Ford to return to their jobs and said that will put pressure on GM and Stellantis to bargain. Announcements on how to do that will come later.

We told Ford to pony up, and they did, President Shawn Fain said in a video address to members. We won things no one thought possible. He added that Ford put 50% more money on the table than it did before the strike started on Sept. 15.

UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, the chief negotiator with Ford, said workers will get a 25% general wage increase, plus cost of living raises that will put the pay increase over 30%, to above $40 per hour for top-scale assembly plant workers by the end of the contract.

Previously Ford, Stellantis and General Motors had all offered 23% pay increases.

Assembly workers will get 11% upon ratification, almost equal to all of the wage increases workers have seen since 2007, Browning said.

Typically, during past auto strikes, a UAW deal with one automaker has led to the other companies matching it with their own settlements.

GM said in a statement it is "working constructively" with the union to reach an agreement as soon as possible. Stellantis also said it's committed to reaching a deal that gets everyone back to work as soon as possible.

Browning said temporary workers will get more in wage increases than they have over the past 22 years combined. Temporary workers will get raises over 150% and retirees will get annual bonuses, he said.

Thanks to the power of our members on the picket line and the threat of more strikes to come, we have won the most lucrative agreement per member since Walter Reuther was president, Browning said. Reuther led the union from 1946 until his death in 1970.

Fain said that the unions national leadership council of local union presidents and bargaining chairs will travel Sunday to Detroit, where theyll get a presentation on the agreement and vote on whether to recommend it to members. Sunday evening the union will host a Facebook Live video appearance and regional meetings to explain the deal to members.

While on the picket line at Fords Michigan Assembly Plant west of Detroit Wednesday night, local union leaders invited workers across the road for a briefing on the deal. As they trickled out of the building, many were smiling and most were relieved.

Its an emotional time for me. Im emotional, worker Keith Jurgelewicz said as his eyes welled up with tears. But just super excited that this is over with. I just cant wait to get back to work and just get on with my life.

Jurgelewicz said he is happy that the end of the strike came during his shift on the picket lines, where he has faithfully appeared for all of his shifts.

Hopefully, GM and Stellantis can get their deals done.  Historic day for us, he said.

In a statement, President Joe Biden, who had visited GM picketers near Detroit early in the strikes, Ive always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class, Biden said. This tentative agreement is a testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table in a manner that helps businesses succeed while helping workers secure pay and benefits they can raise a family on.

Workers with pensions also will see increases for when they retire, and those hired after 2007 with 401(k) plans will get large increases, Browning said.

For the first time, the union will have the right to go on strike over company plans to close factories, he said.

That means they can't keep devastating our communities and closing plants with no consequences, Browning said. Together we have made history.

Ford said it is pleased to have reached the deal, and said it would focus on restarting the huge Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, as well as the Chicago Assembly Plant. The Louisville plant alone employs 8,700 workers and makes high profit heavy duty F-Series pickup trucks and big truck-based SUVs.

In all, 20,000 workers will be coming back on the job and shipping the companys full lineup of vehicles to customers, Ford said.

Fords statement made no mention of the cost of the contract. Company executives said last week they were at the limit of what they could pay while still being able to invest in new vehicles and the transition from internal combustion to electric vehicles.

This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry. Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country, Fain said.

Read more:

Auto workers halt manufacturing : 5 charts that show the impact of the UAW strike Auto workers halt manufacturing : 5 charts that show the impact of the UAW strike How the UAW strike is affecting car brands Domestic car models affected by the UAW strike Older vehicle sales slow amid high rates and low savings Are EVs still the best value in the used market?
DOWNERS GROVE  A suburban Chicago elementary school district has asked police for extra patrols after a swastika was found carved into a piece of playground equipment early Tuesday.

Superintendent Kevin Russell of Downers Grove Grade School District 58 sent parents a letter confirming a swastika was found on the playground at Lester Elementary School. He called the finding "deeply disturbing," WBBM-TV reported.

"The swastika serves as the most notorious symbol of hate and antisemitism and has no place in our community," Russell wrote.

He said the swastika was reported to Downers Grove Police and has since been removed.

"We have no evidence that this symbol was made by a Lester student," Russell wrote. "Further, we do not believe that any Lester student saw the symbol. This likely occurred after school when the students had left for the evening."

The discovery occurred amid a rise in anti-Muslim and antisemitic hate crimes in Illinois following the start of the Israel-Hamas war. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said hate crimes against Arabs, Muslims and Jews have increased in Illinois since then.

"Hate has no home here in Illinois," Pritzker said Monday. "It's a phrase I've used time and time again, but hate always has an insidious way of trying to move in."

Last week, a suburban Chicago man was charged with two hate crimes for allegedly verbally abusing and threatening to shoot two Muslim men, and an employee with the Illinois comptroller's office was fired after she posted vulgar antisemitic comments on social media during an exchange about the war.

Days earlier, a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy in the heavily Palestinian Chicago suburb of Bridgeview was stabbed 26 times by his landlord in response to rising right-wing rhetoric on the war, authorities have said.

Photos: Pritzker Military Archives Center
Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves denies that his recent trip to Canada for the summit between that country and CARICOM was done secretly.





Instead, he said that his ticket was booked in the same way, and he was met by Canadian authorities when he arrived at Toronto, and then Ottawa.





He said that he was scheduled to speak at a World Food Forum at the Food and Agricultural Organizations (FAO) Headquarters in Rome, Italy between October 16th and 20th but that he had to cancel because he said that he would have been unable to make it to the summit in time.

Gonsalves joined 13 other CARICOM Heads in discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa, however there was speculation whether Gonsalves would be making the trip amid allegations of an assault made against him.





"These fellers, they tell themselves a lie for many, many years and they begin to believe the lie, Gonsalves said while speaking on radio on October 22.





According to the prime minister, there has never been any reason legal or factual that prevented him from going to Canada.





"If I dont have a reason to go, a compelling reason to apply (visa) and as I told you, I was not interested in applying for the Canadian visa, he said.





Over the years, there was no compelling reason for him to visit Canada, but now there was  to attend the summit. And that all along he was preparing himself to go to Canada.





"They believe the lie and want everybody to believe the lie, Gonsalves said.
Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves said that other activities prevented him from remaining and meeting Vincentians now residing in Canada during his recent trip.





According to Gonsalves, he had to leave Ottawa, Canada for New York in time to attend a fundraiser for the Mustique Charitable Trust which took place on October 19.





Gonsalves joined other CARICOM Heads of State for a Canada-CARICOM summit held in Ottawa, Canada from October 17th to the 19th.





He also had to get back home on October 20, in time for his mother-in-laws 95th birthday on October 21.

"If you had a choice between coming to host your mother-in-laws 95th birthdayor to talk to 50 people, Vincentians  as important as they are  whats wrong with me coming back? he said while responding to the allegation that he did not stay in Canada for the meet and greet with Vincentians.





Even the fund raiser was an important event, he said taking into consideration the significant assistance that was given in the wake of the volcanic eruption, and the Mustique Charitable Trusts involvement to provide homes for persons who were forced to move or whose homes were damaged during the eruption of La Soufriere volcano in 2021.





Gonsalves added that he had to return to attend a funeral, which was also held on the day of his mother-in-laws birthday.





But Opposition Leader, Dr Godwin Friday spoke on the issue saying that the prime minister went to Canada for the first time in several years and did not take the time to go and talk to Vincentians living in the Canadian Diaspora.





"I mean how can you go to a country having not been there for so many years and do not take the opportunity to say let me just reach out to our brothers and sisters whether in Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Friday said while speaking on New Times on October 23.





"You know, spend some time, and you dont do that  what does that say? he continued.





According to the leader of the opposition, it was as though Vincentians living in the Canadian Diaspora were second class and that he did not have any regard for them.





There are a lot of issues that people living there want clarity on, Friday said, however the prime minister went in quietly and returned without visiting the Vincentian community in Toronto.




A Nigerian Catholic Priest, residing in Mesopotamia, SVG, was released on $8,000 bail with one surety when he appeared at the Kingstown Magistrates Court on Monday, after being slapped with four sex charges, allegedly committed recently on a teenage girl here.





The man of the cloth, Kizito Igwebudul, has been charged with two counts of rape and two counts of indecent assault.





Igwebudul appeared before Magistrate John Ballah on camera, as the courtroom was cleared to accommodate the proceeding. He was not required to plea to the indictable charges.





THE VINCENTIAN understands that he was released on $8,000 bail with one surety, on condition that he surrender his travel documents, and have no contact with the complainant, or any other witnesses.





Stop notices will be placed at all ports of entry and exit, and he was ordered to report to the Mesopotamia Police Station every Friday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. The matter has been adjourned to Monday, October 30, and transferred to the Family Court where a date will be set for a Preliminary Inquiry (PI).
A teenage boy who was allegedly found in possession of a loaded firearm the night before his Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into a case of attempted murder was scheduled to begin, has been denied bail at this stage.





Imari Miller, 17, of Happy Hill, Canouan, appeared at Kingstown Magistrates Court on Monday after being charged with possession of a .38 Smith and Wesson revolver, and five rounds of .38 ammunition, without a license.





Miller pleaded not guilty to both charges when he appeared before Magistrate John Ballah at the Kingstown Magistrates Court.





However, Prosecutor Shamrack Pierre strongly objected to bail stating that Miller was already on bail on a charge of a similar nature.





The Prosecutor added that Miller was allegedly found in possession of the loaded firearm around 10 p.m on October 19 at Canouan, and stressed that this was the night before he was scheduled to appear at the Canouan Magistrates Court for a Preliminary Inquiry on an attempted murder charge. In connection with the attempted murder charge matter, Miller is also charged with possession of a firearm without license, and discharging a firearm.





The Prosecutor pointed out that the Court has a duty to protect, not only the defendant but the public as a whole.

Magistrate Ballah agreed and remanded Miller until next Monday, October 30, when he would appear before the Serious Offences Court.





Miller was unrepresented.




President Yoon Suk Yeol attended a memorial ceremony on Thursday to commemorate the late President Park Chung-hee on Thursday, marking the first time a sitting president has attended such an event.

"In the current global multifaceted crisis, we must rekindle the spirit and achievements of former President Park Chung-hee and use them as a stepping stone to lead the Republic of Korea forward," Yoon said in his address at the ceremony at Seoul National Cemetery in southern Seoul, referring to Korea by its formal name.

It marked the first instance of a sitting president's participation since the annual event was first held in 1980.

After seizing power in a military coup in 1961, Park ruled Korea for 18 years until he was shot dead by his intelligence chief in 1979.

Park's legacy remains a subject of controversy, with some accusing him of stifling democracy with his authoritarian rule, while others praise him for laying the foundation for the country's rapid economic development.

Korea has since become an economic powerhouse in Asia from the ashes of the 1950-53 Korean War that ended in a cease-fire, not a peace treaty.

Yoon, who has expressed admiration for the late President Park, attended the event immediately upon his return from an overseas trip to the Middle East.

"The attendance at the commemoration ceremony underscores the commitment to upholding the essence of politics, as embodied by former President Park Chung-hee," said a presidential official, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

High-profile participants at the annual event included the late president's eldest daughter, ousted former President Park Geun-hye, who attended for the first time in 11 years.

Yoon and the younger Park met for the first time in approximately 17 months, following Yoon's inauguration ceremony last May. They have met three times.

Several prominent political figures from the conservative bloc were also present, including Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon, the leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), and Ihn Yohan, the chief of the PPP's new innovation committee. (Yonhap)
International pressure is growing to delay any invasion of Gaza, not least because of hostages.

The Gaza Health Ministry says there have been 6,546 deaths in the enclave since the start of the war. Israel says that more than 1,400 people were killed since Oct. 7.

About 1.4 million people  more than half the population of Gaza  have been displaced, according to the United Nations.

12 of Gaza's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel.

France will send a navy ship to support hospitals in Gaza, Egypt will send key supplies by plane.


Her involvement at then-Glassboro State College gave Betty Bowe Castor a window to the world.

My time at Glassboro State was transformative, she said. I had grown up in Glassboro and had spent relatively very little time beyond its borders. Four years later, I had deep global experiences that shaped my life profoundly.

While a student, Castor, a 1963 alumna, was a driving force behind Operation Uganda, an initiative to support the education and independence of the people of Ugandaand to foster international goodwill and friendship.

Now, some 60 years after the conclusion of Operation Uganda, Castor has made a $500,000 gift to Rowan University, ensuring that future generations will have a deeper understanding of the worldand their place in it.

Announced last week, Castors gift will create the Betty Bowe Castor Endowed History Fund, which will support an annual lecture that will bring to Rowan nationally and internationally renowned scholars who focus on history and humanitarianism in Africa.

Additionally, her gift will support the establishment of the Operation Uganda Digital Collection & Exhibit, an online archive containing historic records that will showcase the educational legacy of Operation Uganda and its important role in teaching the South Jersey region about Africa.

The digital collection eventually will make the history of Operation Uganda accessible to researchers globallywhile also sparking larger discussions about Rowans global engagement.

Learn more about Operation Uganda in this View story.

We decided to dedicate ourselves to proving him wrong

For Castor, whose storied career includes serving as a teacher in Uganda and the U.S., as Floridas commissioner of education, as a member of the Florida Legislature, and as president of the University of South Florida, the gift pays homage to where her story began.

The impetus for Operation Uganda came after students in GSCs International Relations Club met a Soviet official during their trip to New York City and the United Nations at the height of the Cold War. Professor Marius Livingston, an adviser to the International Relations Club, was a tremendous influence on the group, Castor said.

We met with a Soviet secretary whose rhetoric greatly impacted our group, recalled Castor. He suggested that the United States was not up to the challenge of the Soviet Union, especially in appealing to those in the developing world.

This made a deep impression on our group. We were offended. We decided to dedicate ourselves to proving him wrong.

Also during their UN trip, the students met with Milton Obote, the first president of the independent nation of Uganda. The group knew his country, which gained independence from the United Kingdom, would be a good potential place to support with our energy.

As a college of teachers, we decided that we would support Uganda by helping to create a library, building a schoolhouse, and staff that school with trained teachers from Glassboro State. Operation Uganda became my life.

Celebrating Ugandan independence in Glassboro and abroad

The initiative gained statewide, national and international attention. Recognizing the students work and dedication, Gov. Richard Hughes issued a proclamation noting that the state would celebrate Ugandan independence on Oct. 9, 1962. A celebration at Glassboro State, planned in part by Livingston, included a host of officials. Among them: Hughes, Senators, Congressmen, and 15 African ambassadors. Telegrams were read from President John F. Kennedy and former President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Altogether, 2,000 people attended the Glassboro celebration, according to news reports. Castor, however, wasnt there.

The State Department reached out to Dr. Livingston and said, Would you like to accompany the U.S. former delegation to Uganda? And he said, I think it would be better if we had a student.

I joined the delegation, she continued. So there I wasId never been out of the country and I was making the trip on Air Force One with a few diplomats and important people. That was quite an experience for a student who had never left this country to do so on Air Force One.

As part of the celebration, Castor and Obote made a transoceanic call from Uganda to Glassboroa major feat in 1962.

Dr. Robinson, the president, called off classes for the day, but students were encouraged to attend seminars and various conferences with the officials who were here.

By the spring of 1963, students had collected more than 50,000 books, 250 desks, cabinets for 10 classrooms and $4,000 worth of laboratory equipment for Ugandan schools. Eight students also were poised to teach in Ugandawithout pay, according to 100 Years Forward: The History of Rowan University, published this fall.

But politics, logistics and government bureaucracy intervened. The Ugandan government would not fund the transportation of the books and equipment and, also, did not accept the offers of the students to teach. While 20,000 books were delivered to East Africa by the U.S. Navy, the bulk of the books and goods were donated to needy groups in the U.S.

Castors involvement in Uganda continued after she graduated. She was recruited for the Teachers for East Africa program at Teachers College of Columbia University. She spent 18 months teaching in Uganda and was there when the first shipment of Operation Uganda books arrived.

The books did reach East Africa and they reached Uganda during the time that I was there, she said.

Castor is proud, she added, of her classmates work with Operation Ugandaand excited to see new generations of students learn about its significance through her gift.

The legacies of Operation Uganda were profound

Equally excited is Rowan History Professor Bill Carrigan, who said Operation Uganda paved the way for the 1967 Hollybush Summit between President Lyndon B. Johnson and Soviet Premier Alexei Kosygin at Glassboros Hollybush Mansion.

I want to find archival proof, but I think there is no Hollybush Summit without Operation Uganda, said Carrigan, who teaches in the College of Humanities & Social Sciences. Its an unwritten fact that the governor of New Jersey knew and trusted Glassboro State President (Thomas) Robinson and the mayor of Glassboro. He said, I can trust these people (with the summit).

The legacies of Operation Uganda were profound, added Carrigan, noting that the project also led to the first class in African history taught on campus.

He notes that the digital archive also will be available to social studies teachers who can incorporate the project in their lessons on topics including the Cold War, decolonization, student activism in the 1960s, civic engagement and humanitarianism. Rowan History Professor Jessica Mack will head up the digital archive project.

Back on campus to announce her gift and to attend multiple Centennial events for history alumni organized by Carrigan, Castor announced that she also will establish an endowment in Carrigans name to support student scholarships.

She was impressed, she said, by Project 100, a celebration of the history department at Rowan during the institutions Centennial year. Carrigan interviewed alumni and employees of the department, posting one story each day for 100 days.

He tried to talk me out of it. Can you imagine? Castor laughed of Carrigans response to her intention to establish the endowment. The 100 project was phenomenal.

Her connection to Glassboro, to the institution, and to Operation Uganda never wavers, Castor said.

It was a lifechanging eventand the beginning of my deep understanding of the world, she said of the project. Nothing connected me in life as much as Operation Uganda.
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LANDER  Charlotte Char, 93, was born in her grandparents farmhouse in Dore, ND, and grew up in Sidney, MT. She met the love of her life, Gene, in Bozeman, MT where they both attended Montana State College. After their marriage in 1950 and Genes graduation in 1951, Genes military recall led to their move to California where their first child, Jim, was born. Further military assignments resulted in Char and Jims joining Gene in Tokyo, Japan. After they returned from their life-influencing Japan residence, they lived, worked, and expanded their family in Billings, MT. They moved to Lander, WY in 1960. Char started nursing training at Montana State College and received training at Havre, Great Falls, and Bozeman, MT. She returned to college at Central Wyoming College and the University of Wyoming after raising 5 children and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Literature at age 52. In Lander, Char started her literary career as a writer of newspaper columns and feature articles for several Wyoming and Montana newspapers including the Billings Gazette, Wyoming State Journal, the Casper Star-Tribune, and The (Thermopolis) Independent Record. For a portion of the 30 years, Char worked in journalism. She worked as the editor of the Wyoming State Journal People section. She won various state and national awards for her writing.
Two California men pleaded guilty to conspiring to rob a Casper Walgreens in May, as part of an agreement with state prosecutors.

This week, Joshua Slaughter and Charles Jemison pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit aggravated robbery and conspiracy to deliver a controlled substance. Their co-defendant, Curtis Green, pleaded guilty in early October.

They drove over 1,000 miles to commit the robbery, which was inspired by an Instagram video showing how to go for "hydros" at Walgreens, according to the affidavit in their cases.

Slaughter and Jemison reached identical plea agreements with state prosecutors. They are expected to serve five to nine years, but the terms will be decided at their sentencing hearing.

State prosecutors will argue for prison time, Assistant District Attorney Blaine Nelson said Thursday in Natrona County District Court. But Slaughter and Jemison's public defenders will be able to argue for a youthful offender program, boot camp or even probation.

Jemison is still being investigated for "larger and similar" crimes in Utah, Oregon and federally, Nelson said. Slaughter is also being investigated in other jurisdictions, but the locations were not specified.

On May 26, Jemison held his phone inside the front connecting pocket of his hoodie to simulate a gun while demanding a female employee at the Wyoming Boulevard Walgreens open the opioid safe, Jemison said in court Thursday.

"I was the one who actually committed the robbery," Jemison said.

At the same time, Slaughter was in the store standing lookout, Slaughter said in court Wednesday.

"...[M]y co-defendants told me a plan, and I agreed to it and was part of that plan," Slaughter said. "From what I know, [Jemison] just hopped over the counter...I don't know what else he did."

Jemison and Slaughter fled the store with over 3,500 Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone and Methadone pills, which were worth about $4,715, according to the affidavits in their case. Green was the getaway driver.

Danny Harts, Slaughter's public defender, argued for a lower bond, which "he still won't be able to pay," while he awaits sentencing, he said in court Wednesday. A lower bond would allow him to have more privileges in jail.

"He just had a child born and successfully took a parenting class," Harts said. "If he has a bond of $25,000 or less, he would be able to work in the kitchen."

Slaughter is now being held without bond pending further proceedings, as Natrona County District Court Judge Daniel Forgey said this should afford him the opportunity to work in the kitchen.

Jemison, Slaughter and Green's sentencing hearings have not yet been scheduled.

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.
CHEYENNE  In the courtroom, attorneys often have to make quick judgment calls, according to the Laramie County district attorney.

In an interview this week, Sylvia Hackl told the Wyoming Tribune Eagle why an assistant district attorney accepted a plea to a lesser charge from Charles Karn, the Cheyenne man who pleaded guilty to the murder of his girlfriend, Phoenix Cerenil, at his arraignment on Sept. 14.

The Cerenil family was not aware that Karn would plead guilty to second-degree murder in exchange for the state dropping his four original charges: first-degree murder, aggravated assault and battery, strangulation of a household member and domestic battery.

Hackl said that until he entered the courtroom, Assistant District Attorney Jonah Buckley wasnt aware, either.

When a defendant comes into court and chooses to enter a plea, thats that defendants choice, Hackl told the WTE. ... As long as it was ... something that was actually charged against him. Its his decision how to plead to that charge.

Usually theres discussion beforehand, but there wasnt this time.

Leaving Karns arraignment, the Cerenil family was upset by the surprise charge reduction. Before meeting with the DA for the first time last Friday, they felt like they had been lied to.

He claims he did not know, Kelsea Cerenil, Phoenixs stepmother, told the WTE on Friday. He also claims he did not talk to (Karns public defender) about dropping any of the other charges, but felt it was pretty much a moot point to bring it up, because those charges wouldnt add anything to it.

He said he felt he was in a really awkward position when Diane (Lozano, Karns public defender) kept reiterating ... and stating that they had talked about this and made this agreement, when, in fact, they hadnt.

According to the DA, Buckley decided the best way forward for the case was to accept Karns plea to second-degree murder. Hackl said a defendant showing up to his arraignment intending to plead guilty is uncommon.

(Buckley) did say that, at that moment, he had to decide what to do, Hackl said, and that he felt that proceeding with the plea and getting it on the record was the right thing to do. ... He could have said no, and then the judge would have said,Mr. Buckley, why are you objecting to this?

I understand the Cerenils wish that Mr. Karn had pled to first-degree murder. He didnt. He pled to second-degree.There was no plot, pressure, discussion, previous decision ... it just happened that way. Its unusual to have a defendant walk into court do this, but it can happen.

The Cerenil family previously told the WTE that they wanted Karn to get the death penalty, which Hackl said would never have been on the table, given his initial charges.

When they discussed the case with the DAs office on Friday, the Cerenils said they felt like they got a clearer picture about the states reasoning going into Karns sentencing.

They made it clear that that would never have been an option because he was so young, anyway, Kelsea Cerenil said.But the tone with his age seemed to be different (Friday) because, ... with him being so young, he should spend a longer sentence.

Yeah, so hes not still young enough to reoffend, if he ever gets out, Refugio Cerenil, Phoenixs father, added.

Hackl told the WTE that the maximum sentence for second- degree murder still leaves room for Karn to get life in prison. However, she said he may get a sentence of 30 or 40 years to life.

The statute provides that second- degree murder is punishable by a term of imprisonment of 20 years to life, she said. I dont know what the top number will be, but the top number could be life.

Karns sentencing is set for Friday at 9 a.m. in Laramie County District Court.
The Wyoming Supreme Court reaffirmed on Tuesday a ruling in favor of a law firm that had been accused of stealing money from the Northern Arapaho Tribe, bringing to close a years-long legal battle.

The law firm, Lander-based Baldwin, Crocker and Rudd (BCR), had worked for the tribe since 1988. But the Northern Arapaho Tribe terminated the firms contract in June 2019 after suspicions flared that the firm wasnt acting in the tribes best interest. The Northern Arapaho Tribe filed a lawsuit against the firm disputing a transfer of funds from BCR, among other things.

We have proven to a jury and now the Supreme Court that claims made against us when the Northern Arapaho Business Council terminated our contract were absolutely false, attorney Andy Baldwin, one of the defendants and a BCR attorney, said in a Tuesday statement.

The unanimous Supreme Court confirmed what the twelve-person jury said: BCR worked hard, achieved great results, accounted for every dollar of the Tribes trust funds, and were open and fair with our bills.

We wish the Tribe the best in its ongoing efforts to strengthen tribal government, Baldwin added.

The Northern Arapaho Business Council (NABC), meanwhile, strongly disagreed with the courts Tuesday decision.

We are proud to have fought for the Arapaho people and the responsible use of Tribal funds, and will always take whatever actions necessary to hold Tribal representatives accountable and protect our sovereignty, the council relayed over email through a spokesperson on Wednesday.

However, the district court that oversaw the case found the allegation that BCR had refused to return over $1 million in tribal funds to be false and even punishable. The district court ordered the tribe to strike the allegation and pay BCR's legal fees related to the claim, though the high court ended up reversing the order for procedural reasons  BCR's lawyers didn't give the tribe's counsel enough time to correct or withdraw the allegation and others before filing a motion for sanctions with the district court. The Wyoming Supreme Court did, however, affirm the lower court's other decisions in favor of BCR.

The lawsuit emerged in 2019 after the NABC  the tribe's executive branch  decided to hire an outside firm, Atlanta-based Kilpatrick, Townsend and Stockton, LLP (KTS), to perform an evaluation of Wind River Hotel & Casino CEO Jim Conrad, whose contract was set to expire in June.

BCR did a conflicts of interest check for the firm as required by the 2002 Legal Affairs Policy that BCR helped the NABC create.

They learned that KTS was associated with a defendant in an opioid case the tribe had filed and that one of the firms attorneys had signed an executive order that negatively impacted the tribes tribal court, court documents say. Nevertheless, a majority of the NABC decided to have KTS perform the evaluation.

Several members of the NABC felt BCR was siding with Conrad in the matter rather than carrying out the directives of the council and began to doubt BCR was acting in the tribes best interests. As a result, the majority of the NABC voted to repeal the 2002 Legal Affairs Policy and end BCRs contract. The council ordered BCR to return all tribal funds and documents.

BCR subsequently transferred nearly $1 million to the tribe from a trust account that was being used to pay for their services. After these transfers, an independent contractor for the tribe reviewed transactions and confirmed that all the funds in the trust account were returned to the tribe, court documents say.

Nevertheless, the tribe filed the lawsuit in district court against BCR in July 2019 alleging that BCR had refused to return tribal legal documents, provide a detailed accounting of its billing practices or return money from the tribal trust fund since the business council fired the firm.

Shortly after, people accused BCR of stealing money from the tribe at a public meeting that was broadcast on YouTube. BCRs accusers include KTS attorney Keith Harper. (BCR later sued Harper in federal court for defamation.)

Five days after the broadcast meeting, a majority of the tribes General Council, which is made of all voting adult members of the tribe, voted to ban BCR from working for the tribe in perpetuity.

District Court Judge Thomas C. Campbell ruled the following year that the Northern Arapaho Tribe had wrongfully, and without evidence, accused BCR of withholding money from the tribe.

Most of the claims were resolved through summary judgement  a judgement reached without a full trial. The only allegation that underwent a full trial was the conversion and civil theft claim, in which the tribe claimed that BCR "took advantage of the Tribes trust, failed to meet its ethical duties to communicate and justify its fees, and misappropriated $5.5 million in fees," court documents say.

The high court's decision explains that most of the tribe's case depended on the testimony of its expert Daniel Costello, who said BCR's bills didn't meet the "required standard of care."

For a long time, BCR sent detailed bills including confidential information to the tribes financial office, according to court documents. But after some of the confidential information on these bills was leaked, the NABC asked BCR to start giving the council a simplified monthly billing summary.

These summaries didnt show how many hours were being billed for each legal matter, what work was performed, which attorney had done the work or hourly rates for specific work. But BCR kept detailed billing statements at their offices that they shared with NABC when they were requested, court records say.

BCR shared evidence that, though the billing summaries didn't contain detailed information, it communicated with the tribe about the work it performed and answered the NABC's questions about that work. BCR also showed that the NABC had never asked BCR to change the format of its bills.

The Wyoming Supreme Court justices agreed with the district court's determination.

"Although certain NABC members expressed dissatisfaction with the format of BCRs bills, none of these witnesses offered any evidence BCR was paid for work it did not perform," the decision reads. "While the Tribes expert took issue with the format of BCRs bills, he refused to opine about whether the work had actually been performed."

The BCR partners, the judges continue, testified that they "performed all of the work reflected in their bills" and "presented evidence it regularly communicated with the NABC, frequently discussed ongoing legal matters and projects, and kept the NABC informed about what they were doing on behalf of the Tribe."

The tribe, meanwhile, "failed to present any evidence BCR received payment for legal work it did not perform," the decision says.
I recently wrote an article announcing my intent to introduce legislation challenging the legitimacy of the federal land empire that encompasses approximately 48% of Wyomings surface and 69% of its subsurface resources. A few former politicians and some in the media have claimed that this effort would be unconstitutional. I disagree.

Some may question why I refer to the federally held lands in this state as an empire. Ill explain.

The word empire may be defined as a single absolute authority or supreme control. The U.S. Supreme Court has erroneously described the power of congress over our public lands as being complete, supreme and without limitations. What is this but federal empire? The court has said that this is the same power congress exercises in federal territories. In other words, the court and congress consider our public lands to be federal territory as though Wyoming statehood never happened. That is not what our founders intended.

The original thirteen states retained sovereignty and jurisdiction over all the land within their borders.

Under the U.S. Constitution, new states are admitted into the union with the same rights of sovereignty and independence as the original states, under the equal footing doctrine. By Section 1 of the Wyoming Act of Admission into the union, Wyoming was declared admitted on an equal footing with the original states in all respects whatever. Wyoming is, therefore, entitled to sovereignty and jurisdiction over all the land within its borders, just like the original thirteen states.

However, despite this promise of sovereign equality with the original states, Wyoming is denied sovereignty and jurisdiction over its public lands. In other words, Wyoming is being denied equal footing with the original states. This is because the federal government continues to hold these lands and exercise complete, supreme, and sovereign jurisdiction without limitations over them.

The Property Clause of the U.S. Constitution, Article IV, sec. 3, clause 2, delegates to congress the power to dispose of public lands and to make all needful rules and regulations. Rules of constitutional interpretation say that when a particular thing is given, the opposite of that which is given is denied without having to say so. This is just common sense. If the power given to congress is to dispose of territorial and public lands, then congress has no constitutional authority to not dispose of them. If congress could do the opposite of what it is mandated, then the U.S. Constitution ceases to be the supreme law of the land. It becomes nothing more than a list of discretionary suggestions.

Wyoming clearly has a current claim to sovereignty and jurisdiction over all the land within its borders that was not reserved to federal jurisdiction by terms of our Act of Admission into the United States. The only land in this state that was reserved to federal jurisdiction by that act is Yellowstone National Park. Therefore, by terms of this compact, and by terms of the equal footing doctrine, Wyoming is entitled to sovereignty and jurisdiction over all its public lands. But this cannot happen if our public lands remain as federal property.

It is obvious that the government in Washington is growing increasingly corrupt, oppressive and intrusive. To validate these concerns, we only need to witness the Bureau of Land Managements report regarding the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan.

For these reasons, it is well past time for Wyoming to take a stand, demand sovereign and jurisdictional equality with the original states, and that congress do its duty under the Property Clause of our supreme law of the land.
By Lee Hae-rin

Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) Commissioner General Yoon Hee-keun was grilled at a National Assembly audit, Thursday, over allegations that he was responsible for the belated emergency response on the night of the Itaewon Halloween crowd disaster last year and that he directed investigations to shift blame away from the police.

He denied instructing the police to conduct investigations with the aim of avoiding responsibility and said that he does not remember who sent the message that discussed the issue of blame regarding the disaster, which claimed 159 lives.

The remark was made in response to a question from Rep. Cheon Jun-ho of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK).

According to local reports, Yoon was having an unofficial drinking party with police officers at a campsite in Jecheon, North Chungcheong Province, and responded two hours after the horrific crowd crush had occurred on the night of Oct. 29.

Yoon claimed that he missed two internal reports on the disaster after falling asleep at around 11 p.m. He claimed to have woken up 14 minutes after midnight.

However, local broadcaster KBS reported, Thursday, that the police chief received a total of 11 updates on the situation from police officials but did not reply for over an hour. One of the reports consisted of a link to a news article indicating 100 casualties at that time.

Yoon insisted he received only two reports.

The KBS report also said that Yoon received a Telegram message at around 12:40 a.m. that said Police must lead prompt investigations and set the narrative at an early stage by blaming someone superior than the district mayor, to which Yoon gave the green light.

Around 3 a.m., when the number of casualties reported was rising, Yoon sent a message to high-ranking police officers that the measures taken by the police should be reported swiftly to the president, because some organization might have to be held responsible with so many casualties, according to the report.

Rep. Cheon also asked, citing the local report, whether the police chief discussed ways to avoid responsibility during those time-sensitive moments of the emergency and demanded that he reveal the senders identity.

Yoon argued that the messages can no longer be found on Telegram and claimed that he couldn't remember who sent the message.

Many people have offered me diverse opinions and advice ever since I became the police chief, he said, while clearly denying a question whether the sender was President Yoon Suk Yeol, an official from the presidential office or Minister of the Interior and Safety Lee Sang-min.

Yoon also denied that his forgetfulness was due to being drunk.

Reflecting upon one year ago, I sincerely feel sorry and remorseful myself. No words can justify how sorry I feel for the bereaved families and victims, he said.
THE Public Services Association (PSA) has no regrets about rejecting the four per cent salary increase offer made by the Government, as according to PSA president Leroy Baptiste, that offer is unfair to public servants.
Before the railway system closed, and reversed the fortunes of vast swathes of Trinidad, there was a thriving village called St Johns, deep in the interior of Trinidad, where people lived with little complaint.

No one became rich, but no one went without since there was wildlife cavorting right behind your house, you ate what you planted in forest gardens, and people lived in airy homes constructed strong by the village men using the timber pulled out of the bush by bison power.
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I am happy to report that Trinidad and Tobago has recorded its first conviction for offence
President attends former president's memorial ceremony to seek unity of conservatives

By Nam Hyun-woo

President Yoon Suk Yeol attended a memorial ceremony honoring former conservative President Park Chung-hee and met his daughter and former President Park Geun-hye, Thursday, in what appears to be an effort to seek the support of conservative voters before next years general elections.

The ceremony was held at Seoul National Cemetery in Dongjak District, to mark the 44th anniversary of Park Chung-hees death. Yoon attended the ceremony just hours after he arrived from a six-day trip to Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

It was the first times for a serving president to attend the ceremony, which has been taking place every year since 1980.

Former President Park Chung-hee rallied our citizens under the slogan, 'well make it if we try, and propelled the countrys industrialization, which is a historic global milestone known as the Miracle on the Han River, Yoon said, describing Park as a great leader.

He instilled national pride in our people and harnessed the untapped potential of Koreans, so that they can be united as a great people. In this time of a comprehensive global crisis, we have to rekindle his spirit and achievements and make the country take another leap forward.

The late Park served as president from 1963 until he was assassinated on Oct. 26, 1979. He still commands huge support from Koreas conservatives, despite contradicting assessments on his achievements in driving the countrys economic growth and industrialization from the ashes of the Korean War, while ruling the country as a dictator.

After taking office, I met 92 international leaders and discussed economic partnerships, and all of them showed their respect for Koreas rapid development, which was achieved by late President Park Chung-hee, Yoon said. And I told them to study Park to be able to facilitate rapid growth.

During the ceremony, Yoon also expressed his condolences to Parks daughter. It was the third time that the two met after Yoon won the presidential election in March last year.

Yoon also has a thorny relationship with the junior Park. She served as president from 2013 to 2017 until she was impeached due to her involvement in a large corruption scandal, and Yoon was one of the lead prosecutors investigating that scandal.

People are saying we are facing various challenges, but I believe our government and the people will overcome them, the former president said.

Looking back, there hasn't been a time in Korea's history without challenges but our remarkable citizens overcame all these hardships, she said. And I believe my father, myself and others who are here today share the same dream that Korea can achieve prosperity and happiness through cohesion and understanding.

Yoon's presence at the ceremony was widely seen as an attempt to unite conservatives ahead of the general elections next April.

Following the ruling People Power Party's (PPP) resounding defeat in a by-election to select a Seoul district mayor earlier this month, Yoon's job approval ratings, as well as those of the PPP, have been plummeting in recent polls, particularly in their strongholds in the Gyeongsang Provinces.

Since the PPPs mainstream is now made up of Yoon's loyalists, there are concerns that the president caused a rift among conservatives while phasing out those who were loyal to Park.

In line with this view, there are rumors that Park's loyalists are considering running as independent candidates in the election, raising concerns over the conservative blocs division.

Against this backdrop, Yoons attendance at the ceremony and tribute to the late president are viewed as an effort to rally conservatives support.

According to presidential spokesperson Lee Do-woon, Yoon and Park had conversations while burning incenses at the late presidents tomb. Although the conversations between Yoon and Park during the ceremony were not revealed to the media, pundits suspect that they could have exchanged views on the general elections and ways to unite conservatives.
Resting at the heart of our actions are the implications which can result from them. We have all, at some juncture, had to pause to consider possible consequences.
University of Arizona: The University of Arizona earned recognition across several categories in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges ranking.

Its undergraduate program for management information systems rose two spots to No. 3 overall and No. 2 among public universities. On the publications annual Best Graduate Schools list, U.S. News ranked the MIS masters program No. 1 among public universities and No. 3 overall.

In U.S. News & World Reports Best National Universities ranking, UA tied for No. 115 overall and tied for No. 58 among public universities. The university is No. 14 among all colleges and universities that are designated as Hispanic-Serving Institutions and No. 25 among state flagship universities.

The university placed No. 119 in the Best Value ranking category.

Other U.S. News & World Report undergraduate rankings include:

Entrepreneurship: No. 17

Business: No. 29

Marketing: No. 40

Accounting: No. 46

Computer science: No. 50

Engineering: No. 50

Psychology: No. 51

Economics: No. 58

Nursing: No. 67

Best Colleges for Veterans: No. 76

Google ratings of cheap eats: USA Today analyzed Google ratings of 28,000 budget-friendly restaurants across 50 cities to determine the best cheap places to eat in the U.S. Restaurants had to be designated as a one-dollar sign on Googles cost scale and have 200-plus reviews to be included.

In Tucson, Raptor Canyon Cafe ranked No. 42 in the Top Budget Restaurant in the 50 U.S. cities category.

In the top 25 fast food locations across the country (by average customer Google rating), In-N-Out Burger at 1978 E. Ajo Way ranked No. 23 in the country.

Sahuarita McDonalds: Gaylei Corona, manager of the McDonalds restaurant in Sahuarita, has won a Ray Kroc Award, an accolade that recognizes the top-performing McDonalds restaurant managers globally.

Corona was one of 395 McDonalds managers from 70 markets around the world to receive the honor, which includes a cash prize, a trophy and a trip to McDonalds Worldwide Convention in Barcelona, Spain.

Corona is engaged with the community, hosting events and fundraisers for local organizations and schools.
A Tucson woman has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison in a fatal crash west of Tucson that left a migrant from Guatemala she was smuggling dead, officials say.

Sunshine Michelle Betters, 47, was already on supervised release for a separate people-smuggling conviction n June 2021 when she crashed on the Tohono O'odham reservation with two migrants in her vehicle, said a news release Tuesday from the US Attorney's Office in Arizona.

The crash happened on Arizona 86 when Betters sideswiped a truck and crashed into a tree, killing one of the two migrants in her vehicle, the release said.

Federal investigators said Betters was "severely intoxicated" when she drove the migrants for "financial gain." Betters also was driving fast before the crash because she falsely believed she was being chased by the Border Patrol, the release said.

U.S. District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps sentenced Betters last week to 120 months in prison for transporting a migrant that resulted in death. Betters also was sentenced to an additional 11 months in prison for violating her federal supervised release for a prior people-smuggling conviction, the release said.
Federal officials on Wednesday essentially signed on to much less severe cuts in Colorado River water use for Arizona and other Lower Basin states, abandoning more drastic cuts the government initially put forward earlier this year.

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation formally proposed to cut river water use in Arizona, California and Nevada by a total of 3 million acre-feet through the end of 2026, according to its just-released revised draft supplemental environmental impact statement on the river.

Thats a far cry from the drastic cuts the feds proposed last April in an earlier draft, and that Reclamation Commissioner Camille Touton told Congress were needed back in June 2022.

The bureaus proposed cuts from April 2023 had ranged between 2.1 million and 4 million acre-feet per year through 2026  with exact cuts to be based on how low the rivers two big reservoirs fall in the future. By comparison, the Central Arizona Project that supplies drinking water to Tucson and Phoenix has been delivering about 1 million acre-feet yearly in recent years.

In response to this announcement, the Arizona Department of Water Resources said in a statement that the three Lower Basin states have met the bureaus goal this year through voluntary conservation measures.

But an environmentalist pooh-poohed the bureaus new environmental report as much ado about nothing, due to longer-term challenges facing the imperiled river. A longtime water researcher also warned that the Colorado River Basin could easily "blow through" the extra water that built up in the river's reservoirs during this wet year in as little as two years, since that's happened before several times.

The newly proposed cuts are virtually identical to a set of cuts the three Lower Basin states, including Arizona, offered in May. The bureau had based its original proposal on estimates made back in September 2022 of how far Lakes Mead and Powell could fall by 2026. But the new proposed cuts are based on a similar type of forecast made in June 2023, the bureau said.

In that period, conditions on the river improved dramatically due to a very wet and snowy season, giving the Colorado this year its second highest runoff of the otherwise arid 21th century.

That makes the risks of Mead and Powell falling to dangerously low levels in the next few years much less likely than they were a year ago, the bureau said.

The proposal from the states and the bureau is aimed at offsetting short-term risks to Mead and Powell due to ongoing drought and gradual aridification of the system triggered by human-caused climate change. While long-term risks to river flows are much more serious than those addressed by the proposed cuts, authorities have said they plan to address longer-term issues as they revise broader operating guidelines for the river that expire at the end of 2026.

The entire Colorado River Basin provides essential water supplies to about 40 million people, nearly 5.5 million acres of agricultural lands, hydroelectric renewable power, recreational opportunities, habitat for ecological resources, and other benefits across the western United States and northwestern Mexico, the bureau said in its new report.

The basin occupies about 250,000 square miles in the western United States and 3,500 square miles in northwestern Mexico. The basin states for years have struggled to figure out how to manage a declining river system, one caused by past overbooking of the rivers supply as well as climate change.

Arizona Department of Water Resources noted the three Lower Basin states this year will only take 5.8 million acre-feet from Lake Mead. Thats 1.7 million less than they have the right to use, based on the 1922 Colorado River Compact that divvied up river water supplies among all seven basin states. Those include the Upper Basin states of Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.

This year, the three Lower Basin states voluntarily conserved more than 1 million acre-feet total, ADWR said. Arizona will leave 907,000 acre-feet in Mead this year, with about 272,000 acre feet compensated by federal payouts.

Taken together, the ongoing voluntary commitments are on track to achieve the volumes in the Lower Basin consensus proposal offered to the federal government earlier this year. Combined with the past years above-average hydrology, the system is stable through 2026, ADWR said.

But Kyle Roerink, director of the environmentalist Great Basin Water Network, called the bureaus latest proposal much ado about nothing.

What theyre trying to do is give more credence to the deal that was struck in May, and affirm that the better hydrology put us in a position where their original draft SEIS was unnecessary. But looking at the 30,000 foot view, we have to be re wise not rest on our laurels.

We shouldnt let this be something that lets us lose sight for negotiations for long-term coordination of management for long-term for Powell and Mead, said Roerink, whose group operates in Nevada and Utah.

Speaking of the bureau, he added, I think they are putting a feather in their cap. While they have every right to do so, I would view this as a distraction. This is taking our eyes off the ball a little bit.

The bigger issues are dealing with the long-term management. The wet winters buy us a little bit of time, but were not going to be able to outrun the demon that is climate change, Roerink said.

The bureau noted that if no cuts at all were made, based on the river water conditions of September 2022, all possible scenarios it studied showed a 57% chance of Lake Powell falling below 3,490 feet through 2026. Thats the level below which the Glen Canyon Dam cant generate electricity. Similarly, it found a 52% chance of Lake Mead falling below 1,000 feet  50 feet higher than the level at which Hoover Dam stops generating power  through 2026.

Using this past Junes river conditions as a baseline, however, only 8% of all scenarios studied showed Powell falling below 3,490 and Mead falling below 1,000 feet through 2026 with no conservation done on the river, the bureau said.

If the cuts proposed by the Lower Basin states are adopted, only 4% of all possible scenarios studied show Powell falling below 3,490 feet and Mead falling below 1,000, the bureau said.

Because of such analyses showing reduced risks to the reservoirs from the states proposal, the bureau is now eliminating future consideration of the two proposals it had made last April that drew fear and anger from many Western state water officials. Those proposals were so drastic that many Western officials said they thought they were drawn deliberately to force the previously warring Lower Basin states to find a compromise.

The reduced risks from improved hydrology, cautious modeling approach, and short timeline will allow Reclamation to efficiently consider tools to address critical elevations at Lake Powell and Lake Mead, allowing the entire Colorado River Basin and its many water users to focus on longer-term planning, the bureau said.

But Jack Schmidt, a retired Utah State University professor who has extensively researched the Colorado, offered a cautionary note in a blog item he posted Wednesday.

In 2011, the Colorado had its best spring-summer runoff season of this century. But due to water use and evaporation, the river system lost half the extra water it had when the reservoirs were at their peak from that runoff in 11 to 13 months. All the extra water was gone in another eight to 10 months, he wrote.

The same pattern of water storage loss followed high runoff years of 2017 and 2019, he wrote.

Today, it's unrealistic to expect the next several years will be similar to the remarkable winter of 2022-2023, he wrote.

"No other high flow year of the 21st century was immediately followed by another high flow year. Our best hope for achieving sustainability in water supply is for the basin states and the federal government to reach new agreements to greatly reduce basin-wide water use so that the modest recovery in reservoir storage (in 2023) might be preserved.

"Otherwise, our gains may quickly disappear," he wrote.

This year, reservoir storage has again started declining since the snowmelt season ended in mid-July, Schmidt wrote. By the end of September, the reservoir system had lost 16% of the water it had gained during this year's runoff season.

Weve blown through surpluses in two years before. We can do it again, Schmidt told the Star, adding that the posting of his blog item on the same day that Reclamation released its latest report was "coincidental," not intentional.

In the blog post, he wrote, "It is imperative to keep a keen eye toward accomplishing significant reductions in water use throughout the basin to save what we have gained. We should not expect Mother Nature to bail us out again."
Thank you Star!

Re: the Oct. 18 article Court: Lawmakers can shield bar owners from liability.

Once again, I am reminded of why I like newspapers in genuine print. The paper provides extensive coverage on a variety of issues. For example, Howard Fischers article on the recent AZ Supreme Court opinion on bar owner liability for their drunk patrons did a great job of explaining the opinion, the dissenting opinion, and the history of the related statutes and the Arizona Constitution.

Thank you for continuing to provide great journalism!

Harold Hallikainen

East side

Funding request

Contained in President Bidens new funding request to Congress is $13.6 billion for border protection, including hiring 1,300 Border Patrol Agents, 1,600 asylum officers and 375 Immigration judge teams. This border protection proposal is a joke! It is not meant to secure the border from illegal immigration, but rather to expedite approval of hundreds of thousands of what I believe are fraudulent asylum applications made by people illegally entering the country. It contains no border wall. It takes about a year from the point of hiring a Border Patrol Agent to getting them working out in the field. Right now, they are actually assisting people entering illegally in Texas by pulling them from the Rio Grande River through barbed wire onto the U.S. side. Then processing and releasing them. There is no indication that hiring more agents would change that. I would rather have the House of Representatives stay without a Speaker so as to not not pass this phony border protection funding presented by Biden.

Paula Martin

Vail

Great day for democracy

Friday, Oct. 20, 2023 was great day for American democracy.

First, Trump-endorsed, Jan. 6 conspirator Jim Jordan was removed from consideration as House Speaker after Republicans got tired of receiving threatening phone calls from Jordans flame-throwers.

Second, former Trump lawyer Kenneth Chesebro, the mastermind of the fake elector scheme, plead guilty to a criminal racketeering indictment and agreed to testify against Trump.

Third, a New York judge fined The Donald $5,000 for violating a gag order to not speak about any members of the court staff  and warned him twice about possible imprisonment.

Now, if we can just vote out Arizonas extremist MAGA Representatives Juan Ciscomani, Eli Crane, Paul Gosar, David Schweikert and Debbie Lesko, in the next election we might actually be on our way to making our democracy great again.

Thea Chalow

Oro Valley

Cartoons R-us

For years we have laughed at the disastrous schemes of the hapless, witless, and hopeless coyote, geared up by good old A.C.M.E. We could enjoy a good laugh from the beginning because the ending calamity was always there to see. Now we dont have to wait till Saturday morning to watch cartoons, all we have to do is check up on the latest efforts in Washington, to find a Speaker of the House.

Tim Canny

Oracle

Reward terrorism?

Most Germans may not have been Jew-hating Nazis, but they acquiesced in the extermination of six million Jews.

Gazans elected Hamas, a terrorist group, as their leaders  a group whose creed is to exterminate all Jews  and Gazans remain silent, without condemnation.

Should we now reward terrorism, legitimize it, by awarding it a state?

Beth Isabelle

Northeast side

Illegal immigration

On Saturday, Oct. 21, when most folks were not reading or watching the news, U.S. Customs and Border Protection quietly released their statistics for fiscal year 2023, which ended on Sept. 30. There were 2,063,000 encounters by the Border Patrol. The second consecutive historic year of more than two million people coming here illegally under Joe Biden. The Border Patrol encountered 218,000 in September. Of those, a whopping 155,000, or about 72% were released into the public with a notice to appear. For FY 2023, there were more than 500,000 Border Patrol encounters in Arizona. The Tucson Sector now has the most illegal entry activity in the country. Where is the outrage from Governor Hobbs? For FY 2023, 278,000 people applied for asylum at the ports of entry using the CBP One app. Biden has angered Muslims around the world by supporting and supplying weapons to Israel. It defies reason to think that would be terrorists have not slipped across or posed as an asylum applicant.

Gary Beachwood

Green Valley

Climate change

You may have noticed  desert vegetation grows a heavy outer layer (skin). So, grow a thicker skin and stop whining about what we should have done! The earth is warming up, be it from the awful emissions from the tiny human infestation, or just the earths natural cycle. Its coming, and we can whine about until we go extinct, or we can adapt and evolve. We need to grow more heat tolerant (evolve). We must plan for the A/C power needs of this future. Nuclear power-the only true zero-emission option.

Thad Appelman

Northwest side

Civil discourse matters

Bullying and violence are threats to domestic tranquility everywhere including Tucson. I am a Democrat and more importantly, I am an American who honors all those candidates who work to preserve domestic tranquility despite todays difficult political and cultural divisions.

Please watch the video of the Pima County Board of Supervisors meeting of June 20, 2023 including the segment beginning at 1:30:09.

You will see the Chairman of the Pima County Republican Partys behavior that required intervention and changes to guidelines for the call to the public. This is the party that put forward the Republican candidates on your ballot.

Then watch the local proceedings of the current City of Tucson Mayor and Council on YouTube.

Vote for those who demonstrate with their actions a commitment to functional, civil, and non-violent local government.

Our 2023 City election ballots and the future of Tucson are in our hands.

Stephanie OLeary

Northeast side

Guns dont kill

Guns dont kill, nor do they protect. It depends on who is holding the gun.

In the hands of a criminal, a crazy person, a terrorist, or an immature child, guns can and do kill.

In the hands of a trained, rational, honest citizen they can protect.

Some groups want you to believe that trying to keep guns out of the hands of the former will also prevent the later from having guns  that is a lie. We can keep the right of honest citizens to protect themselves and others, while making it harder for dishonest, irrational people to get their hands on guns.

Vote for candidates who favor rational gun safety; reject those who refuse to do anything to stop gun violence.

Floyd Newsom

Northwest side

Smarter strategy for Dems

The House Democrats have scored a lot of cheap political points by opposing every candidate proposed by the Republicans for the Speakership. This strategy is embarrassing the Republicans, but the Democrats are missing a golden opportunity to have a say in who is elected speaker. In negotiations, some Democrats could agree to support a moderate Republican for speaker instead of the radicals who have been nominated by the far right. Neither party has the votes to elect their ideologs and thats a good thing. With a moderate speaker, each party gets half a loaf, and we can move on. Do the Democrats have the courage to make such a proposal and do the Republicans have the wisdom to accept? The only losers are the radicals in both parties and the winners are all of us.

Loring Green

Foothills

Prop 496: Yes for our kids

As a parent of two TUSD students and someone who has dedicated two decades to Arizonas public education, I grapple with this question: what holds more weight for a student  a toilet or a textbook, A/C or A/V, security or a school bus? The truth is, theyre all crucial. TUSDs Prop 496, offers a clear solution. A yes vote means we can provide all these essentials for your kids and mine. A vote against 496 is a blow to them  over 40,000 students, 2,500 teachers, and countless others who work tirelessly to serve them. It punishes them. Now, picture this: your yes vote means investing less than 20 cents a day, creating a $480 million difference for 40,000 young lives. Its a legacy in the making! Be the catalyst for change because our kids deserve better, they need your help. Vote yes on Prop 496.

Ricky Hernandez

Sahuarita

Water treatment

Re: the Oct. 22 article City Council endorses treating wastewater for drinking.

I read recently that Tucson Water is considering tertiary treatment of effluent for drinking water like San Diego has. This is very expensive and I must ask why it is being considered. Our current treated effluent is dumped into the Agua Caliente wash to percolate down and replenish our aquifer. The water is not wasted. If we go the tertiary treatment option the aquifer will only be replenished by rain water. So where are we ahead? We could tap the aquifer for the same amount of water the tertiary treatment facility will provide and avoid the expense.

Morton Smith

Foothills

Who speaks for peace?

On Sunday, Oct. 22, I attended a community rally opposing military aid to Israel. I appreciated the large turn-out given the oppressive heat. However, I did not appreciate some of the chants or signage. Some were overtly antisemitic and cast the impression that Israel bears sole responsibility for this tragic war. I am not excusing the current bombing of Gaza and the West Bank and 70 years of Israeli oppression. It must end. Nor am I excusing Hamas terrorist attacks. The killing of non-combatant civilians must stop. It seems to me that nobody is right when everybodys wrong. The siege of Gaza will only continue multigenerational violence between these groups when non-violent ways need to be employed to create a lasting peace.

Who speaks for peace?

Richard Fridena

West side

Say NO to TEP

As the City considers the appeal by TEP to the Citys master plan, consider interests. The City has an interest in maintaining its long standing Gateway Corridors  routes leading to major recreation attractions favorable visual impression of Tucson the citizens and visitors to the City.

Its clear that Kino-Campbell and Kino-Aviation Highway are key gateway corridors to the University of Arizona and Downton. The City has an interest in maintaining beauty, not allowing 10-story tall power poles visually detracting.

TEP is owned by Fortis, a Canadian company; annual revenue $64 Billion, 30 times the annual budget of the City; 486 million shares of stock outstanding with a dividend of about $2, an annual payout approximately $1 Billion.

Weighing the interests of the two entities, TEPs interest is representing shareholders. Our City Council must represent the stakeholder citizens of Tucson and say NO to TEPs request for an exception to the Citys Master Plan. City Council represents us against the shareholders of Fortis.

Mark Ziska
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  A poison specialist and former medical resident at Mayo Clinic in Minnesota is charged with fatally poisoning his wife, a 32-year-old pharmacist who died days after she went to a hospital in August with stomach distress.

Authorities say Connor Bowman, 30, tried to stop the autopsy on his wife, Betty Bowman  arguing she should be cremated immediately and claiming she had a rare illness, which hospital tests did not confirm. The medical examiner's office halted the order for cremation, citing suspicious circumstances, according to a criminal complaint, and an autopsy showed Betty Bowman died from toxic effects of colchicine, a medicine used to treat gout.

Medical records indicate she was not diagnosed with gout and had not been prescribed the medicine, the complaint states, adding that Connor Bowman had been researching the drug prior to his wife's death. Six days before she was hospitalized, he had also converted his wife's weight to kilograms and multiplied that by 0.8  with 0.8 mg/kg considered to be the lethal dosage rate for colchicine, according to the complaint.

Connor Bowman was charged Monday with second-degree murder. He was arrested Friday and was still in custody as of Tuesday. His attorney did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press.

Mayo Clinic spokesperson Amanda Dyslin released a statement Tuesday that did not identify Bowman by name, but indicated he was a resident at the hospital.

We are aware of the recent arrest of a former Mayo Clinic resident on charges unrelated to his Mayo Clinic responsibilities. The residents training at Mayo Clinic ended earlier this month," the statement said. Dyslin did not say why Connor Bowmans training at Mayo Clinic ended.

Betty Bowman was also a pharmacist at Mayo Clinic.

According to the criminal complaint, the Southeast Minnesota Medical Examiner's Office alerted police to the suspicious death of Betty Bowman on Aug. 21, a day after she died.

She had been admitted to a hospital in Rochester on Aug. 16 with severe gastrointestinal distress and dehydration where her condition deteriorated rapidly, the complaint said. Her initial symptoms were similar to food poisoning and were treated that way, but they continued to worsen. She experienced cardiac issues, fluid in her lungs and organ failure.

While Betty Bowman was in the hospital, Connor Bowman suggested she was suffering from a rare illness called hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, or HLH. Hospital tests came back inconclusive for HLH, but Connor Bowman told multiple people that she died from that disease, according to the complaint.

He also told the medical examiner's office that Betty Bowman's death was natural and that she did not want to be a cadaver, and therefore, the autopsy should be canceled, the complaint said. He asked an investigator at the medical examiner's office if the toxicology analysis would be more thorough than the analysis done at the hospital.

The night before Betty Bowman went to the hospital, she told a man  identified as SS in the complaint  that she was drinking at home with Connor Bowman. The next morning, she told SS she was sick, possibly from a drink that was mixed into a large smoothie.

Connor Bowman was a poison specialist and answered calls about poisons, using devices from the University of Kansas for his work, according to the complaint. A woman from the University of Kansas told investigators that Connor Bowman had been researching colchicine, the drug used to treat gout, though he had not received any calls about colchicine, nor had any other employees.

Investigators found that Connor Bowman had searched internet browsing history: can it be used in court? and delete amazon data police on Aug. 5. He did calculations that match the lethal dosage rate for colchicine on Aug. 10.

The Minnesota Department of Health found colchicine in Betty Bowman's blood and urine samples that were taken at the hospital, and the medical examiner determined the cause of death to be toxic effects of colchicine, the complaint says.

One woman told investigators that the Bowmans had been talking about divorce, and another told authorities that Connor Bowman said he was going to get $500,000 in life insurance from his wife's death, the complaint says. Authorities found a receipt for a $450,000 bank deposit inside his home.

He is scheduled to appear in court on Nov. 1.

Trisha Ahmed 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 under-covered issues. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter: @TrishaAhmed15
MIAMI (AP)  Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday he's arranged to send drones, weapons and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for an incursion of Gaza in response to Hamas' attack. It's the latest official response DeSantis has taken to back Israel as he competes in the 2024 Republican presidential primary.

Florida has sent cargo planes with healthcare supplies, drones, body armor and helmets, said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governor's office. The state also worked with groups to supply unspecified amounts of weapons and ammunition that were privately funded, Redfern said.

The governors office said it acted at the request of Israels consul general in Miami. Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the consul general, initially said Thursday he did not request drones, body armor or helmets, nor had he talked to the governor about help getting weapons or ammunition through private parties.

Elbaz-Starinsky said later Thursday that others in the Israeli government had communicated with DeSantis office to determine what would be sent to Israel.

DeSantis has often applied his official powers to take actions that coincide with his larger political goals. Florida used state funds to fly migrants from Texas to Democratic-led areas such as Marthas Vineyard. And earlier this week, his administration ordered state universities to disband chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group. Since Hamas' Oct. 7 attack, Florida has also run flights for about 700 Americans evacuated from Israel.

The confirmation of the military aid comes as DeSantis and other GOP presidential contenders are expected to attend the Republican Jewish Coalitions annual gathering of donors, which kicks off Friday in Las Vegas. DeSantis is scheduled to speak Saturday morning to a Nevada Republican group at a casino-resort on the Las Vegas Strip.

DeSantis and the other candidates have largely lined up behind Israel and accused President Joe Biden of not doing enough to support the Israelis. DeSantis has swiped at former President Donald Trump, the heavy front-runner in the 2024 primary, and former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley over Israel as well.

Its unclear whether DeSantis coordinated shipments of any weapons with the Biden administration. The Commerce Department regulates the shipment abroad of many types of U.S. weapons and technology.

It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country," said John Kirby, a spokesperson for the White House's National Security Council. "There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled and thats all done through Commerce. I couldnt speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not.

The export of military equipment would typically require a license or some other authorization from either the Commerce or State Departments, depending on the precise item, said Thomas Krueger, a foreign policy adviser at the Akin Gump law firm who specializes in international trade and previously served as the director of strategic trade and nonproliferation at the National Security Council.

It really all depends on the specifications of the items themselves, to determine what kind of export authorization would be required, Krueger said.

A Commerce Department spokesman said the department was working to appropriately expedite applications for assistance to Israel" and was in close contact with the Israeli government, but said he could not provide details on particular transactions.

Associated Press writers Aamer Madhani and Eric Tucker in Washington contributed to this report.
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Jimmie Tramel called Reservation Dogs, "the most Oklahoma thing on television so far." With shot-in-Oklahoma movie "Killers of the Flower Moon" recent release, it has been a big year for Indigenous storytelling through film and TV.

Tramel and James Watts also talk about the next major media project with an Oklahoma focus, Lawmen: Bass Reeves. A former slave, Reeves was the first African American U.S. deputy marshal west of the Mississippi River. Reeves, who worked primarily in Oklahoma (then Indian Territory) and Arkansas, was responsible for 3,000-plus arrests and spent the twilight of his life as a police officer in Muskogee.
College student, entrepreneur and 11 others to lead reform ahead of April 10 election

By Jung Min-ho

A 23-year-old leader of a college's student body, an entrepreneur and 11 others, many of whom have little experience in politics, will lead reforms for the ruling party in what is expected to be a defining election for the Yoon Suk Yeol administration early next year.

Ihn Yo-han, a naturalized Korean doctor and chairman of the People Power Partys (PPP) innovation committee, unveiled the members on Thursday. The list clearly aims to promote a message of diversity, with fewer career politicians and more young people included than many expected.

Six of the 13 members are in their 20s or 30s and seven are women. The party approved the list at a Supreme Council meeting. They have been given 60 days to reform the party amid polls showing a decline in its approving ratings ahead of the legislative election scheduled to be held on April 10.

The list includes Park Woo-jin, leader of the student body of Kyungpook National University, former news anchor Song Hee, My Pet Plus CEO Lim Jang-mi, Kyung Hee University international relations professor Lee Gem-ma, Rep. Park Sung-joong of the PPP, former lawmaker Oh Shin-hwan and Daegu's former Deputy Mayor Jeong Hae-yong.

We will work over the next 60 days at the innovation committee. Thats not a lot of time, Ihn said during a press conference at the National Assembly in Seoul. One thing I can promise is that there will be concerns among party members (because of the reform agenda).

The revelation comes after Ihn visited the Seoul National Cemetery, where he attended a memorial service for President Park Chung-hee on the 44th anniversary of his death.

There, he spoke with Park's daughter, former President Park Geun-hye, and President Yoon Suk Yeol, in an apparent move to unify the conservative party, which often lionizes the former strongmans contributions in laying foundational policies during his rule in the 1960s and 1970s as Korea underwent rapid economic development.

Ihn said that the committee members will soon visit the May 18th National Cemetery in Gwangju, a symbolic city for the countrys democratic movement and a liberal stronghold, in a step to embrace the change and diversity which he promised to bring to the party.

Speaking to reporters near the partys headquarters the previous day, Ihn said his different face symbolizes the PPPs change in the making and vowed to put it back on the right track even if that means his reputation gets ruined by politically charged personal attacks.

The most important question facing the committee is whether its unelected members will be given powers to implement actual changes, which will likely face opposition from the PPP establishment.

Both Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon, the party chairman, and President Yoon promised cooperation. Therefore, Kim said Ihn will have all powers necessary for reform. Yoon said he would not intervene in any party matters, according to his aide. But it remains to be seen whether they will abide by what they promised if the committee targets some of their key members in the name of reform.

Making rules for selecting candidates for the legislative election will be the most critical task facing the committee. Amid worries that many of the candidates could be hand-picked by Yoon or those close to him, some PPP politicians, mostly young ones belonging to a minor PPP faction critical of the president, have already left the party.

Shin In-kyu, 37, former vice spokesman, is the latest high-profile figure to make the decision to leave, blaming Yoon as the biggest hindrance to the partys reform.

Others, including former party chiefs Lee Jun-seok and Yoo Seung-min, also suggested they may leave the party to create a new one before the election. Cheon Ha-ram, one of the most outspoken young critics of the PPPs current leadership, turned down Ihns offer to join the committee, saying any reforms would not mean much under Kim Gi-hyeons leadership.
Curtis Killman Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Curtis Killman 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 former assistant district attorney in northeastern Oklahoma who traded sex for drugs and favorable treatment in criminal cases was sentenced to federal prison Wednesday.

U.S. District Judge Raul Manuel Arias-Marxuach sentenced Daniel Thomas Giraldi to serve 30 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Giraldi, 45, a former assistant district attorney for Ottawa and Delaware counties, admitted in July 2022 to one count of possession of Oxycodone with intent to distribute and four counts of honest services fraud in connection with performing favorable court actions through corrupt means.

A grand jury named the Joplin, Missouri, resident in a 17-count superseding indictment filed July 6, 2022, that charged him with one count of traveling interstate to aid in racketeering, one count of possession of Oxycodone with intent to distribute, one count of possession of clonazepam with intent to distribute, 10 counts of using a communication facility in the commission of drug trafficking, and four counts of honest services fraud.

Prosecutors alleged that Giraldi  known as Vegas G, Vegas, and just G  while an assistant district attorney would reduce bond amounts and provide favorable treatment on other charges and in one instance dismissed a charge of driving while intoxicated entirely in exchange for sexual favors.

One woman, described as Cooperating Witness 1, met Giraldi on April 12, 2022, outside the Ottawa County Courthouse, where she asked him to look into two child custody cases  hers and another womans, according to court records.

Video and audio of the meeting was recorded by the FBI, the records show. Giraldi and the woman reportedly later agreed to meet April 19, 2022, at a Quapaw home for sex.

After he arrived at the home and gave the woman a bag of pills he pulled out of a shirt pocket, the FBI entered the room and confronted Giraldi, court documents indicate.

Giraldi, during his sentencing hearing, told Arias-Marxauch that he took full responsibility for his actions. He acknowledged how his actions had affected not only the legal profession but also his colleagues and his family.

I wont be back in this court, your honor, he said.

Giraldi was a prosecutor in Ottawa and Delaware counties from February 2019 to April 2022, according to court documents.

Prior to becoming an assistant district attorney, while in private practice, prosecutors alleged, Giraldi also represented people in exchange for sexual favors.

While he agreed to surrender his law license and never reapply for it in Oklahoma as part of the plea agreement, prosecutors said his violation of trust was serious. They had urged the judge to sentence Giraldi at the top end of the recommended sentencing range of 24 months to 30 months in prison, according to a government sentencing memorandum.

Giraldi also agreed never to seek public office in Oklahoma or hold any position of public trust within the state.

Before pronouncing his sentence, Arias-Marxauch said the facts in Giraldis case were frankly  out of the pages of a John Grisham novel.

Arias-Marxauch, one of several visiting judges from other federal court districts brought in to help with the high criminal caseload in Tulsa, told Giraldi that he had two golden tickets in his life, which he rarely sees in defendants  both a bachelors degree and a law degree.

I wish you good luck, Arias-Marxauch told Giraldi.

Giraldi, who has been free on bond while the case was pending, was permitted to self-report to prison.

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The two teens who were found dead in a car outside a midtown doughnut shop succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning, officials have determined.

Kadence Brown and Jacob Lara, both 17, were found dead inside a 2013 Dodge Charger in the parking lot at the Dunkin at 1869 S. Yale Ave. on Sunday evening, the Tulsa Police Department reported in a press release Wednesday evening.

Both teens had been reported missing earlier that day after they had not been seen or heard from in more than 24 hours, police said. Friends of the two had found the Charger and called the police.

A Dunkin employee told officers that the car had been parked there since around 7 p.m. Saturday, police said in the press release.

A preliminary report from the Medical Examiners Office indicates that the cause was accidental carbon monoxide poisoning, police reported.

On Wednesday, personnel from the Tulsa Fire Department, a certified city mechanic and Tulsa Police Department detectives examined the vehicle and found that while the vehicle was idling, lethal amounts of carbon monoxide filled the passenger compartment.

Both teenagers were students at Rogers College High School, Tulsa Public Schools confirmed earlier this week.

GoFundMe accounts have been set up for the families of both students to help defer costs associated with their untimely deaths.

The fund for Brown, at bit.ly/kadencebrowngofundme, had raised more than $9,000 by Wednesday night.

The fund for Lara, at bit.ly/jacoblaragofundme, had raised over $6,500.

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HAGERSTOWN, Md. (AP)  A manhunt for a suspect in the fatal shooting of a Maryland judge continued for a fourth day Sunday as authorities completed their search of an area where the suspect's SUV was found.

Officials said Pedro Argote, 49, is suspected of gunning down Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson in his driveway on Thursday, hours after Wilkinson ruled against him in a divorce case.

The Washington County Sheriffs Office said Saturday that the silver Mercedes SUV that Argote was believed to be driving was found in a wooded area in Williamsport, about eight miles (13 kilometers) southwest of Hagerstown, where the judge was shot. On Sunday, the sheriff's office said in a Facebook post that authorities have concluded their search of the Williamsport area.

No further information indicates that Argote is still in the immediate area, the sheriff's office said. It urged anyone with information on Argote's whereabouts to contact authorities.

Wilkinson, 52, was shot the same day he awarded custody of Argotes children to his wife. Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert said it was a targeted attack.

Albert said local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are participating in the search for Argote. The U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to Argotes arrest.

The Marshals Service said Argote has ties to multiple areas outside of Maryland, including Brooklyn and Long Island, New York; Tampa and Clearwater, Florida; Columbus, Indiana; and North Carolina.

Judges across the U.S. have been the target of threats and occasional violence in recent years. President Joe Biden last year signed a bill to give around-the-clock security protection to the families of Supreme Court justices after the leak of a draft court opinion overturning the Roe v. Wade abortion-rights decision, which prompted protests outside the homes of conservative U.S. Supreme Court justices.
A fatal stabbing in Illinois, a gun pointed at protesters in Pennsylvania, vandalism at synagogues and harassment of staff at a Palestinian restaurant all are raising fears that the war between Israel and Hamas is sparking violence in the United States.

The tensions follow a familiar pattern of crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities rising when conflict erupts in the Middle East and Americans have been killed or taken hostage.

We have a two pronged threat to American faith communities, said Brian Levin, founding director of the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino.

While it's too soon to say with certainty whether anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish crimes have increased during the war, hate crimes overall increased in the U.S. last year. In its annual report released Monday, the FBI estimated that hate crimes increased by 7% to 11,634 cases in 2022 compared to the previous year. With 1,124 incidents, anti-Jewish attacks were the second most reported hate crime, after anti-Black cases. There were 158 reported incidents of anti-Muslim attacks, and 92 reports of anti-Arab cases, according to the report.

Civil rights organizations, however, believe that even before the Hamas attacks in Israel, crime data didnt reflect reality due to a lack of participation by local police departments and internalized fear among the Muslim population, said Robert McCaw, director of governmental affairs for the Council on American-Islamic Relations. In 2021, the Othering & Belonging Institute at the University of California, Berkeley, released a study in which 85% of those who were subjected to Islamophobia said they did not report it to authorities.

The true number remains to be seen, McCaw said.

In one of the most troubling recent incidents, a landlord in Plainfield, Illinois, is accused of attacking a Palestinian American tenant and her son with a knife on Saturday, purportedly because of their Muslim faith, stabbing the 6-year-old boy to death and injuring the mother. The sheriff, prosecutors and family all said the boy and his mother were targeted for being Muslim. More specifically, prosecutors said the landlord was angry ... for what was going on in Jerusalem and his wife told police her husband feared they would be attacked by people of Middle Eastern descent.

In Pennsylvania, a man was charged with felony ethnic intimidation after police said he pointed a gun and yelled slurs at attendees of a pro-Palestinian rally near the state Capitol on Friday. In Boston, the word Nazis was spray-painted across the sign for the Palestinian Cultural Center for Peace.

Theres a lot of fear. Theres a lot of anxiety and uncertainty in everything thats happening, said Abed Ayoub, national executive director for the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee. He said the group has received more than 100 reports including verbal harassment, threats, intimidation and physical attacks.

Its very reminiscent of the early days of post-9/11, where people didnt want to go outside, they didnt want to send their kids to school, he said. "Theyre just worried about being in public and being approached.

In Dearborn, Michigan, which has the nations highest Muslim population per capita, community and faith leaders met outside the citys police department Monday. The city has seen multiple threats of violence in recent days, including from a man accused of asking on social media if anyone in metro Detroit wanted to go to Dearborn & hunt Palestinians.

We have to understand that these issues that are overseas are not just overseas, they are very much also issues here, said Imran Salha, the imam of the Islamic Center of Detroit.

Historically, anti-Jewish hate crimes have increased during violent Israeli-Palestinian conflicts, said Levin, a professor emeritus at California State.

In March 1994, there was a spike in anti-Jewish hate crimes from 79 incidents to 147 a month after an American Israeli extremist opened fire on Palestinian Muslims in a mosque, he said, citing FBI statistics. In October 2000, anti-Jewish hate crimes in the U.S. surged from 81 to 204 compared to the month before after a series of violent protests in Arab villages in northern Israel. Levin observed a similar trend in May 2021, particularly in cities with significant Jewish populations such as New York and Los Angeles.

In California last week, flyers spreading anti-Jewish rhetoric were left in neighborhoods and on vehicles in the city of Orange. And in Fresno, police said a man suspected of breaking windows and leaving an anti-Jewish note at a bakery also is a person of interest in the vandalism of a local synagogue.

Julie Platt, chair of the Jewish Federations of North America, said synagogues and Jewish community centers around the country have been strengthening their security programs, but that she does not want to see members of her community duck for cover.

I think the whole point of this is to terrorize us psychologically, she said. As long as I hear of no credible threats, I believe we should live our Jewish lives.

Several Palestinian Americans interviewed Friday in a Brooklyn neighborhood with a large Arab population said the atmosphere has been tense in the last week.

Jumana Alkaram said she has not been personally threatened but that: I know if I was to demonstrate my heritage or the Palestinian flag there would be some type of threat. Because the majority has the support of Israel and dont have the full legit story about whats happening in Gaza.

In New York City, a Palestinian restaurant, Ayat, was forced to disconnect its phone after receiving nonstop threatening voicemails, according to co-owner, Abdul Elenani. The storefront features a mural of a crying Palestinian and its menu includes calls to end the occupation. On Friday, a man entered the dining room shouting terrorist at the people behind the counter, Elenani said.

Still, the hostile reception was overshadowed by the support he has received from his neighbors, many of whom are Jewish and share his views about minimizing civilian deaths, he said.

In New York, we all live together, we work together, we grow together, Elenani said. And we all want this violence to stop.

Ramer reported from Concord, New Hampshire. Associated Press writers Joey Cappelletti in Dearborn, Michigan; Deepa Bharath in Los Angeles; Jake Offenhartz, Noreen Nasir and Ayesha Mir and in New York; Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and Jim Salter in St. Louis, contributed to this report.
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OKLAHOMA CITY  Gaming compacts that Gov. Kevin Stitt negotiated three years ago with two of the states smaller tribes failed to gain approval from a joint legislative panel on Wednesday.

An Oklahoma Supreme Court decision had already nullified the compacts, and Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond advised the Joint Committee on State-Tribal Relations not to approve the compacts between Stitt and the Kialegee Tribal Town and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians.

The states high court found that for the new compacts to be valid, the executive branch must have negotiated them within the bounds of the states Model Tribal Gaming Compacts or received the approval of the Joint Committee on State-Tribal Relations, neither of which occurred in advance.

Proper respect for the law compels the conclusion that the Joint Committee lacks authority to make valid that which the Oklahoma Supreme Court earlier declared to be invalid, Drummond wrote this week in a letter to the lawmakers on the panel.

Trevor Pemberton, Stitts general counsel, disagreed with Drummonds assessment, saying the Oklahoma Supreme Court did not find the compacts to be forever invalid. Once they were approved by the panel, they would be seen as valid, he maintained.

As for the content of the compacts, we believe strongly these are good deals for the state, he said.

House Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols, R-Oklahoma City, said he was concerned that the Kialegee Tribal Town compact could result in another casino in Oklahoma County even though the tribes boundaries dont include Oklahoma County.

Each of the agreements with the two tribes was site-specific for an as-yet unbuilt facility outside the tribes jurisdictional areas within a mile of a highway. The Kialegees agreement was restricted to Oklahoma County east of Choctaw Road.

The UKBs proposed compact was for a single facility in Logan County.

Pemberton said he didnt think authorizing the compacts would (open) the flood gates.

Echols said he saw it as a massive expansion.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Greg McCortney, R-Ada, said he thought there were significant federal flaws in the construction of the Kialegee Tribal Town compact, and he moved to disapprove it.

The motion was unanimously agreed to by the panel.

The second compact also was unanimously disapproved.

Stitt said the compacts had been a win-win for the state.

Stitts office previously sent the compacts to the U.S. Department of the Interior, which took no action, thus deeming the compacts approved, but the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw and Citizen Potawatomi nations filed a federal lawsuit over the matter, naming the U.S. Department of the Interior as the defendant.

If you read the tea leaves, it is probably because there is competition and they dont want a precedent of a smaller tribe competing for casino dollars, Stitt said.

The compacts were transparent and required a higher fee from the tribes to the state than current gaming compacts with larger tribes, Stitt said.

It doesnt take a rocket scientist to see what has happened here, he said.

The state compacts with tribes for the exclusive right to operate Class III gaming, which includes slot machines, craps and roulette. The currently compacted tribes pay the state between 4% and 10% of those revenues.

Kialegee Tribal Town Mekko Stephanie Yahola said she is disappointed that the bigger tribes are trying to keep the smaller tribes down.

We just want to make money for our members and our community, too, Yahola said.

Joe Bunch, chief of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians, said efforts to improve the lives of his tribal members have now been stymied.

Todays defeat, it hurt, so to speak, Bunch said.

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Thai firms place great trust in Vietnams potential and investment climate, and desire to expand their reach in the country, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara told Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh during their talks in Hanoi on Wednesday.

The top Thai official is on a two-day Vietnam visit, which was set to wrap up on Thursday.

He proposed the Vietnamese government keep making conditions conducive to Thai investors doing business and tapping the energy industry in the country.

Nukara also affirmed that the Thai government will facilitate investment activities for international firms, including Vietnamese enterprises.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) hosts Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara in Hanoi, October 25, 2023. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

Speaking at the meeting, PM Chinh said that Thailand is Vietnams largest trade partner in Southeast Asia, and is its ninth-biggest investor.

The top Vietnamese official suggested the two sides should enhance efforts to fulfill their target of bilateral trade at US$25 billion, remove trade barriers, and smooth goods import and export.

Besides, PM Chinh hinted at upgrading the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Thailand to a higher level, and bolstering all-level delegation exchanges.

The two nations should strengthen the connection between supply chains, economic sectors and firms, and boost cooperation in green and sustainable development, said PM Chinh.

Nukara underscored that Vietnam is one of Thailands key partners in the region, and potential for bilateral cooperation is huge.

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When Lam Ngoc Tuan, director of Tuan Ngoc agricultural cooperative in Thu Duc City of Ho Chi Minh City, quit his nine-to-five at a bank, no one expected that he would successfully establish the largest hydroponic vegetable farm in the southern metropolis six years later.

Tuans experience working on land appraisal for the bank impressed upon him the struggle that farmers often face when it comes to unfavorable weather conditions.

In addition, with the area of land for farming in Ho Chi Minh City shrinking every year, the need for an agricultural model that is high-yield and capable of producing high-quality products is evident.

Those situations motivated Tuan to research farming and establish his own hydroponic vegetable farm, which can yield up to five times more produce than traditional growing methods.

I was under great pressure from my family after I left my stable job and income to pursue farming, but I was so passionate that I ignored them all, Tuan shared.

As hydroponic farming is a relatively new venture demanding substantial initial investments, Tuan committed his entire savings, secured additional funding from the bank, and successfully persuaded others to join.

So far, Tuan has invested over VND12 billion (US$488,600) in his business.

In 2017, the Tuan Ngoc agricultural cooperative was established with just over 1,000 square meters of hydroponic vegetable cultivation within greenhouse facilities.

In the following two years, the cooperative expanded to include seven members and increased its rented land area from over 7,000 square meters to 10,500 square meters by 2022, operating at five locations -- four in Ho Chi Minh City and one in south-central Ninh Thuan Province.

Tuans cooperative is considered the largest hydroponic vegetable greenhouse farm model in Ho Chi Minh City, according to Dinh Minh Hiep, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

To minimize costs, Tuan has mastered the production of his own vegetable nutrients.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Tuan Ngoc Cooperative has begun to see positive outcomes, providing employment for dozens of workers.

Lettuce grown at Lam Ngoc Tuans hydroponic farm in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: T.N. / Tuoi Tre

We produce 11 different types of vegetables, including lettuce, cruciferous vegetables, amaranth, and more, Tuan said.

Our daily output varies depending on the time of year, ranging from 600 kilograms to a metric ton, resulting in a revenue of approximately VND20-25 million [$814-1,017], he revealed.

We currently distribute vegetables to four convenience store chains, supermarkets, and hundreds of regular customers within Ho Chi Minh City.

Furthermore, the cooperative has effectively disseminated hydroponic crystal lettuce farming technology to regions with warmer climates, such as Ninh Thuan Province, even though the vegetable was traditionally grown in cooler conditions.

The cooperative received the High-Quality Vietnamese Goods award and was recognized among the 63 exemplary cooperatives of 2023 by the Vietnam Farmers Union.

Tuan confessed that despite having been in business for six years, the cooperative has only recently begun to break even, primarily due to high initial investments and stable selling prices.

However, hopes are high now that the cooperative has established a distribution channel and made a name in the market.

While humbly acknowledging this is just the beginning of their success, Tuan is determined to persevere, recognizing that there will still be many challenges and estimating that it will take around seven to eight years to establish a strong brand.

Only by being steadfast can we go a long way and gain success in the field of urban agriculture, Tuan said.

Discussing his future plans, the man intends to broaden the cultivation area and diversify the product range to better cater to customer needs.

Tuan calls on the city for more favorable policies, including low-interest loans, permitting construction on agricultural land, and facilitating channels for product distribution, to encourage and support the growth of high-tech urban agriculture.

In response, Hiep from the citys agriculture department said that those policies are already under consideration.

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Lithuanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabrielius Landsbergis told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday that he respects Vietnams green transition steps as this journey is not easy at all.

We realize that Vietnam is seriously focusing on green transition, he underlined.

He started his two-day Vietnam visit on Wednesday at the invitation of his Vietnamese counterpart Bui Thanh Son.

Lithuania aims high for renewable energy development in the European Union.

Accordingly, the nations green energy consumption will have accounted for 45 percent of its total power use by 2023.

International investment and aid packages will enter Vietnam for green transition projects, said Landsbergis.

Numerous Lithuanian firms are keen on investments, so some might contribute to Vietnams efforts in green transition, he added.

The Lithuanian minister said that he would provide Vietnam with information and knowledge about liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports as the country has 10 years of experience in operating LNG warehouses.

Lithuania and Vietnam established diplomatic ties in 1992.

Vietnam is one of Lithuanias key partners in Southeast Asia, Landsbergis said.

He also expected the Vietnamese government to join hands with the Lithuanian side to deepen bilateral partnership, mainly in the energy, agriculture, information technology, and education spheres.

Lithuania has received a sheer number of Vietnamese students over the past few years, hoping that it will attract more young Vietnamese people to contribute to driving up the European labor market, he said.

The Lithuanian minister was impressed by Vietnams dynamic lifestyle, expecting to return to the Southeast Asian nation in the future to take a stroll along its streets and drink coffee.

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Catch up on the news in Vietnam today:

Politics

-- Ho Chi Minh City is keen on learning from Seine River bank planning from France to develop the Saigon River and preserve cultural relics, secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen told newly-appointed French Ambassador to Vietnam Olivier Brochet on Wednesday.

-- Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and his Lithuanian counterpart Gabrielius Landsbergis, who is on a visit to Vietnam, reached a consensus on deeper cooperation in the hi-tech, information technology, agriculture, and tourism fields during their meeting on Wednesday.

-- The United Kingdom is committed to helping turn Ho Chi Minh City into a regional healthcare innovation hub, heard a meeting between UK Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Emily Hamblin and officials from the municipal Department of Health on Wednesday.

Society

-- A 56-year-old teacher in Binh Thuan Province, south-central Vietnam was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly sexually abusing two elementary school students many times.

-- Three people died on the spot and one was severely injured after a head-on crash between two motorcycles in Chu Prong District under Gia Lai Province, located in the Central Highlands region, on Wednesday.

Business

-- UK-headquartered John Swire & Sons will keep expanding its investment, especially in the aviation and health sectors, in Vietnam, chairman of the firm Guy Bradley said at a meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on Tuesday.

-- Long An Province authorities have signed a decision allowing Green City Development JSC, a subsidiary of property conglomerate Vingroups Vinhomes, to develop the Hau Nghia - Duc Hoa new urban area project, covering 197.2 hectares and costing an estimated VND28.2 trillion (US$1.15 billion).

-- Thai firms place great trust in Vietnams potential and investment climate, and desire to expand their reach in the country, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara told Prime Minister Chinh during their talks on Wednesday. The top Thai official had earlier arrived in Vietnam on the same day for his two-day official visit.

Tourism

-- South Korean airlines Korean Air, Jin Air, and Jeju Air are set to launch commercial flights from the East Asian nation to Phu Quoc Island off Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam in November and December.

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Police in Vietnam have detained four construction forepeople over allegations of paying building workers who are drug addicts with heroin.

The apprehended suspects include Nguyen Van Binh, 48, from northern Ha Nam Province, Ha Thi Huyen, 52, from Hanoi, as well as Lo Van Ban, 56, and Ha Trung Kien, 26, both from northern Lai Chau Province.

They were arrested in Tam Duong District, Lai Chau, local police said on Wednesday.

Early this month, police in Tam Duong were aware that Binh and Huyen came to Chu Va 12 Village, Son Binh Commune to undertake the Cong Troi ecotourism project and many workers obeyed them as they were given heroin as pay.

Police officers later caught Binh, Huyen, Ban, and Kien in the act of illegally trading drugs and confiscated heroin and two notebooks including information about the distribution of the drugs to workers.

Binh declared that he and Huyen hired drug addicts to work as building workers and paid them with heroin as the construction site of the project is far from residential areas, causing difficulties in seeking masons.

Binh and Huyen hired 11 drug-addicted workers and asked Ban to buy heroin. Ban later gave the heroin to Kien, who divided the drugs into smaller packs and gave them to Huyen.

Huyen assigned Kien to daily write the heroin distribution information in the notebooks.

Each heroin pack was priced at VND70,000-100,000 (US$2.9-4.1).

At the end of the month, Binh deducted the heroin costs from workers salaries and divided the profit from the drug trade among Ban, Kien, and Huyen.

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Top political advisor meets representatives of Buddhist Association of China

Xinhua) 10:03, October 26, 2023

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, meets with leading members of the Buddhist Association of China on its 70th anniversary in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning has called on the country's Buddhist community to contribute to realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, made the remarks when meeting with leading members of the Buddhist Association of China (BAC) on Wednesday.

Wang congratulated the BAC on its 70th anniversary and extended greetings to all Buddhists and Buddhism believers in the country.

Since its founding, the BAC has played an active role in China's socialist modernization drive and contributed wisdom and strength to the prosperity of the country and rejuvenation of the nation, Wang said.

He stressed efforts to further adapt Buddhism to the Chinese context and promote friendly Buddhism exchanges with other countries.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference National Committee, takes a group photo with leading members of the Buddhist Association of China on its 70th anniversary in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
By Gwynne Dyer

The blame game has gone into high gear.

It started with the massacre perpetrated in Israel about two weeks ago by the Islamist Palestinian group Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip for the past 17 years. U.S. President Joe Biden called it sheer evil, and a chorus of other voices said the same.

Another chorus of familiar voices replied: The 2.3 million residents of the Gaza Strip are descended from Arab Palestinians who were victims of the 1948 Naqba (the Disaster), the expulsion of the Palestinians from their lands in what is now Israel.

Those refugees and their children and grandchildren have lived ever since in what amounts to an open-air prison, said the counter-chorus. So the attack was understandable, even if the slaughter of civilians was hard to defend.

As usual, there is some truth in both narratives and which one people believe largely depends on their existing loyalties. The same mechanism is at work in every subsequent turn of events, including the explosion at Al-Ahli Al-Arabi hospital in Gaza City that allegedly killed 500 people on Wednesday morning.

Hamas immediately said it was a deliberate Israeli attack and called the Israelis war criminals. (A bit rich, coming from an organization whose fighters have just slaughtered about 1,300 Israeli civilians, many in their beds.) Popular opinion in Arab countries agreed, as you would expect, and started demonstrating against the Israelis.

Whereas Israels Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) both denied responsibility for the blast. It was caused, they said, by a rocket launched at Israel by Islamic Jihad, Hamass rival and sidekick that came down short and exploded in the hospital parking lot. President Biden, on a brief visit to Israel, agreed.

Islamic Jihad denied that accusation, of course. And the leaders of Egypt, Jordan and the Palestinian Authority, who were also scheduled to meet Biden in a summit during his whirlwind visit to the region, abruptly canceled the event. They didnt say why, but they are obviously afraid of the rage of the Arab Street.

So can we figure out where the truth lies in all this  and does it even matter? Physical evidence would be best, but only one side has access to the site.

The Israelis say no impact crater is visible, which would argue in favor of a misfiring rocket (Islamic Jihad) rather than a deliberate strike (Israel). However, any crater could be hidden by the debris, so without an on-site investigation thats far from conclusive.

What were left with is the old Latin legal strategy deployed by the statesman and lawyer Cicero in a famous case in the late Roman Republic: Cui bono? Who benefits from this (Crime)?

If it really is a deliberate crime, its unlikely to have been committed by the Israelis. The consequence was to stir anger in the Arab Street, influence world opinion against the Israelis, and force the cancellation of the meeting between the U.S. president and Arab leaders. All those things benefit the cause of Hamas, not Israel.

"Aha!" say the proponents of the Israeli plot theory. "Israel wants to drive all the Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip so its using terror tactics (a second Naqba)!" But the only place those Palestinians could go is Egypt, which borders the Gaza Strip.

However, the 1978 peace treaty with Egypt is the foundation of Israels relative security from Arab attack, and the Egyptian regime definitely does not want a couple of million Palestinian refugees on its hands.

The Palestinians would not only be an economic burden for Egypt but a political threat to General Sisis regime, because they would work to replace him with an Egyptian leader more supportive of the Palestinian cause. Neither Sisi nor the Israelis want that, so no second Naqba.

Sisi did suggest that if the Israelis were really interested in avoiding civilian deaths in their impending Gaza offensive, they could relocate the entire civilian population to Israels Negev Desert until they have killed all the Hamas fighters, but that was probably a joke.

What are we left with, then? Not a definite culprit but at least a list of probable causes for those 500-odd deaths at the hospital. In declining order of probability, they are:

1) an off-course Palestinian rocket fired by Islamic Jihad. They are almost all homemade, and at least 3,000 have been launched in this round of fighting.

2) an off-course Israeli missile.

3) a deliberate Hamas false-flag operation timed to coincide with President Bidens summit with Arab leaders.

4) a deliberate strike ordered by the Israeli government for inexplicable reasons (Cui bono?) or freelance revenge by some grief-stricken Israeli pilot.

And does it actually matter much who did it? Not really. Everybody will believe what they are used to believing, and act as they usually act.

Gwynne Dyers new book is The Shortest History of War.
Police in Gia Lai Province, located in Vietnams Central Highlands region, are investigating a fatal traffic accident involving two motorcycles that killed three people on the spot and injured one.

The frontal crash occurred in Chu Prong District at around 5:45 pm on Wednesday, Vu Dinh Hanh, chairman of the districts administration, confirmed on the same day.

The deceased victims were identified as Nay K., 13, Ro Mah T., 17, and Ro Mah Tuen, 22, all residing in the district.

Siu Ngu, 18, another local resident, was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment after suffering multiple injuries and falling into a coma.

Hanh added that he had asked relevant forces to urgently launch a probe to determine the cause of the deadly accident.

Doan Huu Dung, deputy director of the provincial Department of Transport and deputy head of the provincial Traffic Safety Committee, said the crash had been reported to upper authorities and relevant units were dealing with the aftermath.

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Police in Binh Thuan Province, south-central Vietnam on Wednesday arrested Nguyen Van Nhut, a 56-year-old teacher, over allegations of sexually abusing two elementary school students aged 10 many times.

In the 2022-23 academic year, Nhut was the head teacher of a fourth-grade class of an elementary school in Hong Son Commune, Ham Thuan Bac District, Binh Thuan Province.

The class included V.N.T.T. and T.N.Y.N..

On April 27 this year, while his students were studying, Nhut stood behind T. and sexually assaulted her.

He repeated the act in the next class.

T. was afraid, so she did not dare to protest against the teachers act.

As she showed abnormal behaviors, her mother asked her many times and T. told her mother what had happened.

T.s mother then reported the case to local police.

During a probe into the case, police officers found that Nhut also sexually abused T.N.Y.N. many times.

The investigation into the case is underway.

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The United Kingdom is committed to helping turn Ho Chi Minh City into a regional healthcare innovation hub, heard a meeting between UK Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Emily Hamblin and officials from the municipal Department of Health on Wednesday.

The hub is expected to spur the citys medical training quality and bring healthcare workforces and training facilities to the world-class standard.

A diplomatic delegation of the UK led by Hamblin held talks with the municipal department leaders to announce its plan to support Ho Chi Minh City to become such a regional healthcare innovation hub.

Hamblin praised the city for its orientation toward improving healthcare and building an ASEAN medical center to serve its people and foreigners.

The Center of South Asian Studies under the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, in collaboration with the UK Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, has funded the municipal Department of Healths studies on enhancing healthcare training quality and fostering public medical examination.

With an aid package worth 75,000 pounds (US$90,600), KPMG Vietnam and the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU) will help the citys health agency achieve its goals and organize training courses in the UK over the next six months.

The local health authorities will enhance the human resource quality by international standards, build three high-tech medical zones, improve specialized treatment techniques for different diseases, strengthen quality healthcare services, develop medical tourism forms, and form a healthcare innovation center, among other tasks, Nguoi Lao Dong (Laborer) newspaper cited the health department.

Emily Hamblin, UK Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, highly values the citys health development strategies. Photo: KPMG Vietnam

When we celebrate 50 years of the Vietnam-UK friendship, the health sector will be a main pillar of the ties, Hamblin said.

I am glad to see the presence of the UK in Vietnams health industry, which has much potential for future growth.

I am so proud of the partnership between the UK government and Ho Chi Minh City in health."

We are pleased to learn many things about health from the UK, said Tang Chi Thuong, director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health.

Apart from the support for building the regional healthcare innovation center in Ho Chi Minh City, several British firms and organizations have implemented various medical projects in the city.

They include a program to monitor infectious diseases conducted by OUCRU and the municipal Center for Disease Control as well as the health development and research center project run by AstraZeneca Vietnam.

Ho Chi Minh City and Liverpool are working to deepen their partnership in health.

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Vietnamese representative at the Miss Grand International 2023 Le Hoang Phuong won the fourth runner-up title of the pageant during the finale held in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday night.

Peruvian contestant Luciana Fuster was crowned Miss Grand International 2023 after beating 68 other contestants from across the world, while the first, second, and third runner-up titles respectively went to beauties from Myanmar, Colombia, and the U.S..

Vietnamese beauty Phuong also won the best national costume prize, besides those from Japan and Nigeria.

Before being called to the top five, Phuong entered the top ten candidates along with nine others from Myanmar, the Netherlands, Angola, Colombia, Thailand, the U.S., Indonesia, the Dominican Republic, and Peru.

Le Hoang Phuong in her national costume at the Miss Grand International 2023

The top 10 contestants donned ao dai, Vietnam's traditional long gown, to share their opinions on putting an end to violence and war and keeping peace.

Phuong said as an architect, she felt heart-broken when she saw houses and families destroyed by war.

Thousands of people have died and children cannot go to school. Millions of people feel hopeless as they do not know where to go when they do not have homes anymore, she added.

She expected her voice to be heard and conflicts to be resolved by conversations instead of guns so that children can see how beautiful peace is.

Stop war. Return peace to humanity! she added.

Phuong, 27, from south-central Khanh Hoa Province, was crowned Miss Grand Vietnam 2023 in August this year.

Luciana Fuster from Peru is crowned Miss Grand International 2023.

During the finale on Wednesday, the organizer promoted Vietnamese culture as contestants wore ao dai and designs inspired by ao yem, another traditional Vietnamese bodice, and made of Vietnamese brocade.

This is the second time Vietnam has hosted the Miss Grand International, with the first in 2017, when a representative from Peru, Maria Jose Lora, also won the crown.

The pageant was first held in Thailand in 2013, while Myanmar will host the Miss Grand International 2024.

Contestants are sexy in swimsuits.

From left: The top five of Miss Grand International 2023: Colombia, the U.S., Vietnam, Myanmar, and Peru

Contestants of the Miss Grand International 2023 and Miss Grand International 2022 Isabella Menin in a dancing performance in the finale of the pageant

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Protesters gathered at ABC studios in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth yesterday morning amid fears the broadcaster would reveal its confidential sources for a Four Corners program, Guardian Australia reported.

Western Australian police have applied through the courts for footage of climate change protesters via the Order to Produce provisions of the WA Criminal Investigations Act. The law compels organisations to comply.

MEAA and ABC staff have urged the broadcaster not to hand over footage. ABCs managing director, David Anderson, said they never have and never will reveal their sources but confirmed in Senate Estimates this week they were in negotiations with the police about what they might give them while still protecting those sources.

Disrupt Burrup Hubs media adviser Jesse Noakes, who facdes trial on November 6, I personally received undertakings from the ABC in relation to multiple sources who requested and received specific guarantees they would not be identified as a precondition for their participation in events filmed by Four Corners.

Should the ABC surrender any Four Corners footage to WA police, if any of these people face legal liability or criminal prosecution that will be entirely on the ABC  I hope the ABC management appreciate the full implications of that.

Photo: Disrupt Burrup Hub
By Baek Byung-yeul

Merck, a German multinational science and technology company, is considering making further investments in Korea to strengthen its semiconductor supply chain, according to its Korean unit, Thursday.

Merck Korea added that the additional investment plan is aimed at bolstering its supply of chemicals and gases used in the semiconductor production process.

The Korean unit said Katherine Dei Cas, executive vice president and head of the Delivery Systems & Services (DS&S) business unit of Merck, visited Korea to discuss further investments. The DS&S business provides high-quality delivery equipment and storage of specialized chemicals and gases.

The executive vice president inspected production facilities and held internal meetings at Mercks site in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province. The purpose of her visit was said to be related to planning for additional investment in the DS&S business in Korea.

Merck Korea added that the additional investment in DS&S is currently under review and a specific scale has not been finalized.

As part of its Level Up growth investment plan announced in 2021, Merck said it would invest 600 million euros ($632 million) in Korea by 2025. As part of that plan, Merck acquired the Korean thin film materials company M Chemicals.

The global semiconductor markets long-term outlook is strong and so is our commitment to purposefully expand our capacities and services in the immediate vicinity of our customers. Were excited about the growth trajectory of our Delivery Systems & Services business and looking to take Merck's confidence and business capabilities to a new level in the future of the electronics industry through the investment being reviewed in Korea, following the opening of our new site in Arizona last week, the executive vice president said.

"The experience and expertise of Hanyang Technology built up in the equipment for the stable supply of gases and chemicals, as well as the (DS&S) business, has been merged with Merck in 2019 to secure global supply capabilities and technological prowess, said WooKyu Kim, managing director of Merck Korea. The DS&S business of Merck started from Hanyang Technology in 1986 and was finally integrated into Merck when Merck acquired Versum Materials HYT in 2019.

We are proud to have contributed to the development of the industry so that our customers, who have been leading the global semiconductor industry, can continue to lead the industry through our technological capabilities and experiences that have met the needs of our customers, Kim added.
BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (iShares)

TORONTO, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited (BlackRock Canada), an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE: BLK), today announced the final October 2023 cash distributions for the iShares Premium Money Market ETF. Unitholders of record on October 26, 2023 will receive cash distributions payable on October 31, 2023.



Details regarding the final per unit distribution amounts are as follows:

Fund Name Fund Ticker Cash Distribution Per Unit ($) iShares Premium Money Market ETF CMR 0.204

Further information on the iShares ETFs can be found at http://www.blackrock.com/ca .

About BlackRock

BlackRocks purpose is to help more and more people experience financial well-being. As a fiduciary to investors and a leading provider of financial technology, we help millions of people build savings that serve them throughout their lives by making investing easier and more affordable. For additional information on BlackRock, please visit www.blackrock.com/corporate | Twitter: @BlackRockCA

About iShares

iShares unlocks opportunity across markets to meet the evolving needs of investors. With more than twenty years of experience, a global line-up of 1300+ exchange traded funds (ETFs) and US$3.12 trillion in assets under management as of September 30, 2023, iShares continues to drive progress for the financial industry. iShares funds are powered by the expert portfolio and risk management of BlackRock.

iShares ETFs are managed by BlackRock Asset Management Canada Limited.

Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investing in iShares ETFs. Please read the relevant prospectus before investing. The funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional.

Contact for Media:

Reem Jazar

Email: reem.jazar@blackrock.com




Banana splits may taste different in the future. Marita G./Yelp

Cavendish, the most commonly available banana variety, is facing the risk of extinction.

A fungus that ravages roots is gradually eradicating Cavendish from banana farms all over the world.

Experts we spoke to have multiple ideas for a solution but don't agree on what's best.

Each year, humans worldwide eat over 100 billion bananas, most of which are a type called the Cavendish. But perhaps not for long.

A fungal disease threatens to wipe Cavendish bananas off the face of the Earth. Some scientists are genetically modifying the fruit to be more resistant to disease.

But the best solution to the problem, some argue, is for farmers to completely overhaul banana production and stop growing only one variety of fruit altogether.

Why Cavendish bananas dominate the global market

There are over 1,000 varieties of bananas, but about 47% that humans eat are Cavendish bananas (Musa acuminata).

Many banana plantations grow just one type banana variety. trabantos / Getty Images

Cavendish dominates the global banana market for several reasons. One, it's resistant to some of the major banana-killing diseases; two, it has a long shelf life; and three, farmers can typically grow more Cavendish bananas than other varieties on the same amount of land.

"Because of all these reasons, Cavendish becomes a very practical product," journalist Dan Koeppel, author of the book "Banana: The Fate of the Fruit That Changed the World," told Insider.

But the Cavendish is under threat from a fungus that infects the plant. The infection is called Panama Disease (Fusarium wilt) tropical race 4.

TR4 infection starts in the banana tree's roots and then spreads, ultimately disabling the plant's ability to absorb water or conduct photosynthesis. Eventually, the tree dies as a result.

Panama disease has been killing bananas for well over a century. Fajri Ramadhan / 500px / Getty Images

Panama disease is a serial banana killer

What's happening to Cavendish bananas has happened before to another popular banana variety called Gros Michel.

Gros Michel was the "main export banana in the first half of last century," James Dale, a professor and leader of the banana biotechnology program at Queensland University of Technology, told Insider.

Story continues

But a predecessor to TR4, called tropical race 1, began infecting bananas in 1876. By the 1950s, it had completely decimated Gros Michel farms, forcing banana producers across the globe to look for a new variety.

By 1982, Cavendish bananas had all but replaced the Gros Michel variety. Robert Nickelsberg / Contributor / Getty Images

In the following years, "Cavendish became the leading export banana replacing Gros Michel because it was immune to TR1," Dale added.

In 1997, scientists detected a new strain (TR4) near Darwin, Australia, that infected Cavendish. By 2015, it had spread to the banana farms in Queensland, the largest banana-producing state in Australia.

"Since then it has spread to India and China, the world's largest producers of bananas. It has also spread to the Middle East and Africa and very recently was found in South America," Dale told Insider.

How scientists are trying to save the Cavendish

Some plant pathologists don't believe that the Cavendish banana will meet the same fate as Gros Michel.

"The disease moves slowly, so we have at least a decade before the impact is drastic," Dale said.

Also, many scientists are working on TR4-resistant Cavendish or a resistant replacement for Cavendish.

The TR4 infects banana roots, ultimately killing the plant. Dr_Microbe/Getty Images

For example, Dale and his colleagues have developed a genetically modified Cavendish called QCAV-4, which they said is highly resistant to TR4.

Another research group led by scientists at the University of Cambridge is exploring grafting as a possible solution. Grafting tissue from one plant onto another can alter certain characteristics of that plant, like making it more resistant to disease, per the University of Cambridge.

Another team at the Taiwan Banana Research Institute is attempting a form of natural selection. The team takes Cavendish seedlings and exposes them to TR4. The small portion of seedlings that fair best then go onto additional experiments to ultimately help the Cavendish evolve to become resistant to TR4, absent of genetic modification.

"I would say with certainty that there will be a solution before the export market for Cavendish is severely affected," Dale added.

But some banana experts argue that such solutions won't work long term.

There's no single solution to the problem

"It's true that there is some resistance, but I'd say right now, nobody is even close to solving the problem," Koeppel told Insider, adding "The answer is going to be the end of monoculture. The answer is variety."

He suggests that replacing the current banana cultivar with a new disease-resistant variety is a short-term solution because the fungi can also come up with a new and more powerful strain in the future.

Food markets of the future could carry as many varieties of bananas as apples. DEA / G. COZZI / Contributor / Getty Images

The real solution is to mass produce and sell more than one banana variety because the more genetically diverse bananas are, the less likely they'll be susceptible to diseases, he said.

Plus, it would also reduce the dependence of humans on one type of banana.

"Apples are a huge example of this. Today If I go to any supermarket in the US, I will find between five and 30 apple varieties," Koeppel said. "Apple growers are going nuts trying to introduce new varieties naturally as well as through hybridization, and genetic modification."

This reduces the risk of disease, offers more variety to customers, and as a result, "apple growers are still making a lot more money because of this," he said.

The problem with bananas, Koeppel said, is that there are far fewer varieties, and they're all cheap.

"If you add variety, the investment will pay off very quickly because suddenly some people will pay $4 a pound for certain bananas," Koeppel told Insider.

Dale, on the other hand, isn't so sure. "Price is the driver," of banana sales in his country Australia. He added, "Most people will purchase Cavendish because it is cheap."

Introducing a wider variety of bananas would not only drive up costs but would also require a major overhaul in how we transport bananas  since you can't just store them in freezers for long periods like apples, Dale said.

"The export market is dependent on harvesting Cavendish green and then inducing ripening by ethylene gassing. This is done during transport and is very tightly controlled and tailored to Cavendish," Dale said, adding, "If there were multiple varieties of bananas exported then it is likely that each would need specific defined ripening conditions. And of course the price would increase."

There seems to be no single solution to the problem that's working, so far. Perhaps history is bound to repeat itself and Cavendish will no longer be the banana of choice in the near future.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Ethan Allen

DANBURY, CT, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. (Ethan Allen or the Company) (NYSE: ETD) today reported its financial and operating results for the fiscal 2024 first quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Farooq Kathwari, Ethan Allens Chairman, President and CEO commented, We are pleased to report our financial and operating results for the fiscal 2024 first quarter ended September 30, 2023. Our first quarter consolidated net sales were impacted due to major flooding in our Vermont manufacturing plant and strong prior year results that benefited from delivery of pandemic related written order backlog. Also, as expected, the economy has slowed down. Despite these challenges, we were able to maintain a strong gross margin of 61.1% and an adjusted operating margin of 12.1%. We also continued to generate positive operating cash flow and as of September 30, 2023, we had total cash and investments of $163.2 million and no debt. We paid a special cash dividend of $0.50 per share during August 2023, in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share. We are also pleased to announce that yesterday our Board approved our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, payable on November 22, 2023.

Mr. Kathwari continued, We are celebrating our 91st year and have always focused on the concept of constant reinvention. During the quarter we launched our major initiative of Interior Design Destination. This initiative was launched in our Danbury, CT flagship design center in April 2023 and we are now in the process of launching across our network of 174 design centers in North America over the next four months. This initiative provides us the opportunity to strongly differentiate our enterprise by providing relevant offerings under the umbrella of Classics with a Modern Perspective, strong values and the service of interior design professionals who are utilizing state-of-the-art technology to service clients. Weve also made major investments in our North American manufacturing, where we produce about 75% of our products.

Story continues

For our first quarter ended September 30, 2023, we delivered consolidated net sales of $163.9 million, which was negatively impacted by approximately $15 million due to the flooding of our Vermont facility. As previously disclosed, our wood furniture manufacturing operations sustained damage from heavy flooding, which resulted in a pre-tax charge of $2.1 million, net of insurance and grant proceeds. We resumed limited operations during the second half of the quarter, and at this time, the majority of our associates are back at work. Although we continue to work through the cleanup and repair, as our work is ongoing, we are pleased to say that we remain open for business in Vermont and are actively working on the production of our customer orders.

We are proud to celebrate our culture of constant reinvention, excited to start the next phase of Ethan Allens journey, and pleased to welcome both present and future clients to the Interior Design Destination. While we understand and navigate the challenges of a slower economy and the reduction of consumer focus on the home, we remain cautiously optimistic, concluded Mr. Kathwari.

FISCAL 2024 FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS*

Consolidated net sales of $163.9 million were lower by 23.6% Retail net sales of $133.6 million were lower by 27.3% Wholesale net sales of $99.4 million were lower by 13.3%

Written order trends Retail segment written orders decreased 13.2% Wholesale segment written orders decreased 15.6%

Consolidated gross margin increased to 61.1%, up from 60.4% a year ago due to favorable product mix and lower input costs including reduced inbound freight and raw material costs, partially offset by lower delivered unit volume and change in sales mix

Operating margin of 11.2%; adjusted operating margin of 12.1% compared with 17.6% last year due to fixed costs deleveraging from lower consolidated net sales and expenses incurred with the launch of the Interior Design Destination initiative including projection, new product display, merchandising and sample costs partially offset by gross margin expansion, lower headcount and the Companys ability to maintain a disciplined approach to cost savings and expense control

Advertising expenses were equal to 2.0% of net sales compared to 2.5% in the prior year first quarter; promotional activity remained disciplined and was comparable to the prior year

Diluted EPS of $0.58 compared with $1.17; adjusted diluted EPS decreased to $0.63 from $1.11; adjusted diluted EPS for the three months ended September 30, 2019 (pre-pandemic) was $0.35

Generated $16.7 million of cash from operating activities compared with $38.4 million a year ago

Paid cash dividends totaling $21.9 million, which included a $0.50 per share special cash dividend and the regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share

Ended the quarter with $163.2 million in cash and investments with no debt outstanding

Reduced inventory carrying levels to $149.6 million as of September 30, 2023, down $18.0 million or 10.8% from a year ago

Named one of Americas Top 10 Retailers by Newsweek, including recognition as the #1 retailer of Premium Furniture

Celebrated the launch of Ethan Allens next reinvention as the Interior Design Destination with several design center grand reopenings during the quarter, with many more scheduled to occur in the coming months

New state-of-the-art design centers in The Villages, FL, Avon, OH and New York, NY were opened

The Companys wood furniture manufacturing plant in Orleans, Vermont sustained significant flooding in July 2023 that lowered shipments by approximately $15 million and resulted in total expenditures of $3.6 million less $1.5 million in insurance recoveries and grant proceeds received from the State of Vermont for a pre-tax charge of $2.1 million; as of September 30, 2023, the majority of associates are back at work and operating capacity is improving with an expected recovery from the delayed shipments in the second and third quarters of fiscal 2024

* See reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial measures in the back of this press release. Comparisons are to the first quarter of fiscal 2023.

KEY FINANCIAL MEASURES*

(Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 % Change Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 (23.6 %) Gross profit $ 100,141 $ 129,616 (22.7 %) Gross margin 61.1 % 60.4 % GAAP operating income $ 18,351 $ 39,650 (53.7 %) Adjusted operating income* $ 19,843 $ 37,692 (47.4 %) GAAP operating margin 11.2 % 18.5 % Adjusted operating margin* 12.1 % 17.6 % GAAP net income $ 14,939 $ 29,880 (50.0 %) Adjusted net income* $ 16,054 $ 28,417 (43.5 %) Effective tax rate 25.6 % 25.3 % GAAP diluted EPS $ 0.58 $ 1.17 (50.4 %) Adjusted diluted EPS* $ 0.63 $ 1.11 (43.2 %) Cash flows from operating activities $ 16,700 $ 38,422 (56.5 %)

* See reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial measures in the back of this press release

BALANCE SHEET and CASH FLOW

Cash and investments totaled $163.2 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $172.7 million at June 30, 2023. The decrease of $9.5 million was primarily due to $21.9 million in cash dividends paid and capital expenditures of $3.7 million as the Company continues to return capital to shareholders and reinvest back into the business. These cash outflows were partially offset by $16.7 million in cash generated from operating activities.

Cash dividends paid were $21.9 million, which included a special cash dividend of $12.7 million, or $0.50 per share, and a regular quarterly cash dividend of $9.2 million, or $0.36 per share, both paid in August 2023.

Cash from operating activities totaled $16.7 million during fiscal 2024, a decrease from $38.4 million in the prior year due to lower net income and less favorable changes in working capital, including timing of insurance renewals and payments of annual incentive compensation.

Inventories, net totaled $149.6 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $149.2 million at June 30, 2023. Inventory balances are down $18.0 million or 10.8% from a year ago as the Company aligns its inventory with incoming order trends while also ensuring appropriate levels are maintained to service customers.

Customer deposits from written orders totaled $77.9 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $77.8 million at June 30, 2023. Wholesale order backlog was $75.4 million at September 30, 2023, down 28.6% from a year ago, but up from $74.0 million at June 30, 2023 due to the timing of incoming contract orders.

No debt outstanding at September 30, 2023.

DIVIDENDS

On August 1, 2023, the Companys Board of Directors declared a $0.50 per share special cash dividend and a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, which were paid on August 31, 2023. Ethan Allen has a long history of returning capital to shareholders and is pleased to pay a special cash dividend, which highlights the Companys strong balance sheet and operating results. Most recently, on October 24, 2023, the Companys Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, payable on November 22, 2023, to shareholders of record on November 7, 2023.

CONFERENCE CALL

Ethan Allen will host a conference call with investors and analysts today, October 25, 2023, at 5:00 PM (Eastern Time) to discuss these results. The conference call will be webcast live from the Companys Investor Relations website at https://ir.ethanallen.com.

The following information is provided for those who would like to participate in the conference call:

U.S. Participants: 877-705-2976

International Participants: 201-689-8798

Meeting Number: 13740818





For those unable to listen live, an archived recording of the call will be made available on the Companys website referenced above for up to six months.

ABOUT ETHAN ALLEN

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. (NYSE: ETD) is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. The Company is a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers its customers stylish product offerings, artisanal quality, and personalized service. The Company provides complimentary interior design service to its clients and sells a full range of home furnishings through a retail network of design centers located throughout the United States and abroad as well as online at ethanallen.com. Ethan Allen owns and operates ten manufacturing facilities located in the United States, Mexico and Honduras, including one sawmill, one rough mill and a lumberyard. Approximately 75% of its products are manufactured or assembled in these North American facilities.

For more information on Ethan Allen's products and services, visit www.ethanallen.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

Matt McNulty

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

IR@ethanallen.com

ABOUT NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This press release is intended to supplement, rather than to supersede, the Company's consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). In this press release the Company has included financial measures that are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS (collectively non-GAAP financial measures). The Company computes these non-GAAP financial measures by adjusting the comparable GAAP measure to remove the impact of certain charges and gains and the related tax effect of these adjustments. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures for financial and operational decision making and to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. The Company believes that they provide useful information about operating results, enhance the overall understanding of past financial performance and prospects, and allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in its financial and operational decision making. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measure reported in accordance with GAAP is provided at the end of this press release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). Generally, forward-looking statements represent managements beliefs and assumptions concerning current expectations, projections or trends relating to results of operations, financial results, financial condition, strategic objectives and plans, expenses, dividends, share repurchases, liquidity, use of cash and cash requirements, investments, future economic performance, business and industry and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business operations and financial results. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements may include words such as anticipate, estimate, expect, project, plan, intend, believe, continue, may, will, short-term, target, outlook, forecast, future, strategy, opportunity, would, guidance, non-recurring, one-time, unusual, should, likely, pandemic, and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. The Company derives many of its forward-looking statements from operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While the Company believes that its assumptions are reasonable, it cautions that it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors and it is impossible for the Company to anticipate all factors that could affect actual results and matters that are identified as short term, non-recurring, unusual, one-time, or other words and terms of similar meaning may in fact recur in one or more future financial reporting periods.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that are expected. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties disclosed in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors, in the Companys 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K and other factors identified in its reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company, or persons acting on its behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements, as well as other cautionary statements. A reader should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this press release in the context of these risks and uncertainties. Given the risks and uncertainties surrounding forward-looking statements, you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Many of these factors are beyond the Companys ability to control or predict. The Company is including this cautionary note to make applicable and take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. 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, except as otherwise required by law.

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 Cost of sales 63,751 84,914 Gross profit 100,141 129,616 Selling, general and administrative expenses 80,298 91,962 Restructuring and other charges, net of gains 1,492 (1,996 ) Operating income 18,351 39,650 Interest and other income, net

1,724 341 Income before income taxes 20,075 39,991 Income tax expense 5,136 10,111 Net income $ 14 , 939 $ 29 , 880 Net income per diluted share $ 0.58 $ 1.17 Diluted weighted average common shares 25,618 25,560





Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (In thousands) September 30, June 30, ASSETS 2023 2023 Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 56,888 $ 62,130 Investments 106,284 110,577 Accounts receivable, net 11,053 11,577 Inventories, net 149,623 149,195 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 28,950 25,974 Total current assets 352,798 359,453 Property, plant and equipment, net 221,504 222,167 Goodwill 25,388 25,388 Intangible assets 19,740 19,740 Operating lease right-of-use assets 117,332 115,861 Deferred income taxes 655 640 Other assets 2,146 2,204 Total ASSETS $ 7 39 , 563 $ 745,453 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 29,633 $ 28,565 Customer deposits 77,928 77,765 Accrued compensation and benefits 20,579 23,534 Current operating lease liabilities 26,530 26,045 Other current liabilities 10,272 7,188 Total current liabilities 164,942 163,097 Operating lease liabilities, long-term 105,102 104,301 Deferred income taxes 3,066 3,056 Other long-term liabilities 3,897 3,993 Total LIABILITIES $ 27 7 , 00 7 $ 274,447 Shareholders equity Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. shareholders equity $ 462,584 $ 471,028 Noncontrolling interests (28 ) (22 ) Total shareholders equity $ 462,556 $ 471,006 Total LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY $ 7 39 ,5 6 3 $ 745,453



Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, the Company uses non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in tables below.

These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company believes these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of its results to others in its industry and prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, its financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than the Company does, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, the Company believes these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing its performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving its goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to historical performance.

The following tables below provide a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

(Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 % Change Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin GAAP Operating income $ 18,351 $ 39,650 (53.7 %) Adjustments (pre-tax)* 1,492 (1,958 ) Adjusted operating income* $ 19 , 843 $ 37 , 692 (47.4 %) Consolidated Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 (23.6 %) GAAP Operating margin 11.2 % 18.5 % Adjusted operating margin* 12.1 % 17.6 % Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS GAAP Net income $ 14,939 $ 29,880 (50.0 %) Adjustments, net of tax* 1,115 (1,463 ) Adjusted net income $ 16 , 054 $ 28 , 417 (43.5 %) Diluted weighted average common shares 25,618 25,560 GAAP Diluted EPS $ 0.58 $ 1.17 (50.4 %) Adjusted diluted EPS* $ 0.63 $ 1.11 (43.2 %)







* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including operating income and margin, net income and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following: (Unaudited) Three months ended (In thousands) September 30, 2023 2022 Orleans, Vermont flood $ 2,096 $ - Gain on sale-leaseback transaction (655 ) (2,257 ) Severance and other charges 51 299 Adjustments to operating income $ 1,492 $ (1,958 ) Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) (377 ) 495 Adjustments to net income $ 1,115 $ (1,463 )

(1) Calculated using the marginal tax rate for each period presented








Property owners at a recent Defective Blocks information meeting. (Photo: lg)

The objective of the delegation is to fact find and form a complete picture of the impact and issues of the Defective Concrete Blocks Crisis, to result in a comprehensive report which can be submitted to the EU Commission.

The international team of MEPs from Spain, Estonia, Latvia and Ireland headed up by Chair Ms. Dolors Monserrat will witness the devastating consequences of the disaster first hand.

Visits to impacted homes, other affected buildings plus an extensive series of discussions and interviews with homeowners, campaigners across affected counties, scientists, engineers, political and administrative representatives will convey the issues, gravity and scale of the crisis from all angles.

Representations to the EU Parliament were spearheaded by campaigner Joe Morgan two years ago in collaboration with petitioning homeowners, University of Ulster researchers Prof. Paul Dunlop and Dr. Eileen Doherty, the Mica Action Group (MAG) and with the support of the Left Group in the EU Parliament.

Following the initial presentations made to the EU Petitions Committee by Joe Morgan and Ann Owens in 2021, MEP Luke Ming Flanagan then worked with MEP Sira Rego, LEFT group coordinator, to request the Petitions Committee undertake a mission to Donegal to see the devastation for themselves.

With agreement from the other political groups in the EU Parliament, the fact-finding delegation was approved.

Campaigner Joe Morgan states: The EU Delegation visit to Donegal has been over two years in the making following the initial submission of eight petitions to the EU Parliament.

" In November 2021 we travelled to Brussels where impacted homeowners presented to the EU Petitions Committee. The Committee decided unanimously to leave the Petitions Open for further investigation.

"A visit from an EU delegation is by no means a guarantee. The fact that we have managed to secure the mission is an indication of the seriousness and scale of the Defective Concrete Crisis. It is clearly a concern to legislators that it has been escalated to the highest level of the EU Parliament.

Story continues

"The visit has been designed to ensure that the EU delegates are left in no doubt of the shattering impact of this catastrophe first hand - not only the destruction of our homes and other affected buildings, but also the emotional, physical and financial damage it has wrought on our communities by being allowed to persist unaddressed for so long.

The EU delegation are required to write up a comprehensive account of their observations, which can then be submitted to the EU Commission. It is our hope that this report, together with two EU complaints, submitted within the same timeframe, will be enough to spur the EU Commission into discussion with the Irish Government to provide effective remediation to impacted families and ensure this crisis cannot continue to the next generation of Irish citizens hoping to own their own homes.

Lisa Hone, Chair of MAG states: Almost two years ago at the end of November 2021, on the very day that campaigning homeowners were at the EU in Brussels representing their impacted community, Housing Minister Darragh OBrien announced he would appoint a Senior Counsel to review how the Defective Concrete Crisis occurred, and a new building standards regulator would be set up to prevent such issues occurring again. Neither has happened, nor will the Government commit to a timeline of when they will happen.

The Mica Action Group Chairperson Lisa Hone also outlined how the visit of the EU delegation is vital so that they understand the layers and layers of injury that have been inflicted upon our communities.

"We hope that they will use this opportunity to elevate the issue further within EU to generate greater international awareness and prompt much needed intervention to ensure people in Ireland are protected.
(Reuters) - The race to lead Indonesia, the world's fourth-most populous nation, kicks off this week.

Here's what you need to know:

WHAT'S BEING DECIDED ON FEB. 14?

The presidential poll will be held on the same day as a national parliamentary election and voters will also choose executive and legislative representatives at all administrative levels across Indonesia.

About 205 million of Indonesia's more than 270 million people are eligible to vote and about a third of those are under the age of 30, according to the election commission.

WHAT'S HAPPENING THIS WEEK?

Three presidential candidates and their running mates have from Oct 19-25 to present their credentials and policy platforms to the election commission.

A flurry of last-minute manoeuvring is underway by the country's political heavyweights as they shore up ever-shifting alliances.

WHO IS RUNNING?

There are three candidates vying to succeed incumbent President Joko Widodo, better known as Jokowi, who is finishing up the maximum two terms allowed by the constitution.

Prabowo Subianto, who narrowly lost to Jokowi in 2014 and 2019, is hoping third time's the charm. The defence minister is a controversial figure, with allegations of human rights abuses during his time as special forces commander doing little to dent his popularity among those who admire his heavy-handed leadership style.

Ganjar Pranowo is the candidate of the ruling Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle. His long career in public service, most recently as Central Java governor, has won him a following outside the capital Jakarta. He is neck-and-neck with Prabowo in opinion polls.

Anies Baswedan, ex-governor of Jakarta, is an independent candidate, trailing in surveys.

ANY BURNING ISSUES?

Critics have cast doubt on the integrity of the 2024 election amid what they see as President Jokowi's attempts to retain influence after leaving office. A top court, headed by Jokowi's brother-in-law and which will preside over any election disputes, tweaked eligibility criteria that would allow Jokowi's son to join Prabowo as his running mate  a move that some experts and voters say undermines Indonesia's 25-year-old democracy.

Story continues

Elections in Indonesia are often a battle of personalities rather than policies, with candidates running on similar platforms promoting growth, jobs, and pluralism in the world's largest Muslim-majority country.

HOW WILL A WINNER BE DECIDED?

A candidate needs a simple majority of votes to win, or more than 50%. If no one manages that in the first round, a run-off election will be held in June between the two candidates with the highest number of votes.

The next president will take office in October, 2024.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Candidates will ramp up their campaigns, crisscrossing the sprawling archipelago to meet constituents and build support.

(Writing by Kanupriya Kapoor; Editing by Martin Petty)
Pirelli tyres are pictured in a tyre specialist center in Turin

ROME (Reuters) - Italy's Pirelli has signed a joint venture with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) to build a tyre manufacturing facility in the country, the two groups said on Thursday.

The deal - for a total investment of $550 million - will make Pirelli the first tier 1 tyre maker to directly source production in Saudi Arabia, which is trying to diversify its economy away from oil.

PIF, Saudi Arabia's $700 billion sovereign wealth fund, will hold a 75% stake in the new JV, with Pirelli holding the remaining 25% and providing the technical and commercial support for the development of the project, the two groups said.

The project will not impact Pirelli's deleveraging targets to 2025, they added.

The plant is expected to start producing in 2026 and is set to reach a production capacity of 3.5 million units.

It will manufacture high-quality tyres for passenger vehicles under the Pirelli brand, as well as market tires under a new local brand mainly aimed at the domestic and regional market, it added.

Founded in 1872, Pirelli now specialises in high-end tyres for premium carmakers like Ferrari, Porsche and BMW and is the sole supplier for Formula One cars.

Saudi Arabia is boosting its manufacturing capabilities in the automobile sector and aims to produce more than 300,000 cars annually by 2030.

Earlier this month PIF struck a deal with South Korea's Hyundai Motor Group to build a car plant in Saudi Arabia.

(Reporting by Giulia Segreti; Editing by Alvise Armellini and Hugh Lawson)
A black and white photograph shows Senator David Norris standing in front of a court building after winning his legal case. He is balding with a full beard and moustache. He is smiling and wearing a suit, tie and waistcoat. @katheder via X

Today, October 26, 2023, marks the 35th anniversary of a monumental ruling by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) against the Irish State in the case of Norris v Ireland.

The decision had been five years in the making, but it was one which would irrevocably change the landscape of LGBTQ+ rights in this country, and arguably globally, for generations to come.

The case began when Senator David Norris, a Trinity College lecturer, argued that the Offences Against the Person Act, 1861, which criminalised buggery, and the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1885, which referred to gross indecency  also commonly known as the blackmailers charter  were in breach of his right to privacy under the European Convention on Human Rights.

The archaic Victorian laws had been legislated for during British occupation but were adopted into the Irish statute books after the formation of the state, particularly as they had heavy backing from the Catholic Church.

They had legally permitted the wholesale persecution of gay men and had undoubtedly emboldened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment for nearly a century.

In reality, Norriss case had begun long before it was ever presented in Europe. In November 1977, Senator Norris set about challenging his right to privacy by bringing a case against the Attorney General to the High Court. However, the judge ruled against Norris, and in a later appeal to the Supreme Court, he was again unsuccessful.

Spurred on by the successful 1981 ruling of Northern Irish activist Jeff Dudgeon, who had challenged the British Government on the same grounds, Norris submitted his case to Strasbourg.

As a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights, the verdict handed down by the ECtHR on October 26, 1988, meant that the Irish Government was obliged to amend the legislation.

Despite this, by October 1990, the Government still had not implemented any changes. Hence, Norris instructed his solicitors to re-submit his case to the ECtHR, seeking punitive damages due to the long delay.

Story continues

Eventually, following intense lobbying by GLEN (Gay and Lesbian Network), the Irish Council for Civil Liberties and other community groups, the Irish Government finally passed the Sexual Offences Bill, 1993, on June 30, decriminalising same-sex sexual acts between consenting adults over the age of 17.

On a truly momentous occasion, the new legislation was signed into law by President Mary Robinson on July 7, 1993, almost 16 years after she had begun acting as legal counsel for Norris on his High Court case.

Whilst the 1861 and 1885 laws had only referred to sexual acts between men, the ramifications of their existence had had a profound impact on both the wider LGBTQ+ community but also on Irish civil rights in general.

As Norris highlighted in an interview in 2011, I found very quickly that the mechanism of discrimination was exactly the same against women, against ethnic minorities, against (disabled people).

Since then, the landscape of civil rights in Ireland has transformed significantly. Following a number of contentious referenda, further legal challenges, and constitutional reviews, the State introduced divorce (1995), civil partnership (2011), marriage equality for same-sex couples and gender recognition (2015), and abortion (2018).

Although these milestones and so many other civil rights wins that have occurred are not directly attributed to Senator Norris, Irish LGBTQ+ rights owe a debt of gratitude to his bravery in bringing his case to Europe.

The post A look at the history of David Norris' court case that led to decriminalisation in Ireland appeared first on GCN.
Michael Cole (Image: Newsquest)

The poet W.H. Auden went to Spain in 1937 as an ambulance driver during the civil war and wrote that the star reporters covering the siege of Madrid behaved like famous actresses at a first night.

We can get a flavour of what Auden meant by watching BBC news bulletins which daily treat us to the spectacle of one BBC journalist interviewing another BBC journalist on a rooftop far from the war.

These ludicrous double acts, often starring Lyse Doucet or Jeremy Bowen of the grizzled beard, take up three minutes of a 30-minute bulletin which purports to present all the vital news of the day, not only the Middle East crisis but important domestic events.

Its a waste of time better used to convey the views of the Palestinians and Israelis who are living and dying this story. Where are the interviews with the Hamas terrorists or the Israeli Special Forces?

East Anglian Daily Times: Michael says TV coverage should include what is actually happening in a war zone rather than journalists just talking to each other

Michael says TV coverage should include what is actually happening in a war zone rather than journalists just talking to each other

I have yet to hear them on the BBC, though I have read them in print. No medium has the narrative power of television.

Covering a war is relatively simple because it is happening right in front of the lens. But Rooftop Reporting has now completely taken over. Highly-paid BBC journalists are reluctant to leave the satellite point.

East Anglian Daily Times: Lyse Doucet

Lyse Doucet

It would not do for them to miss an opportunity for their sun-tanned faces and tieless torsos to appear as often as possible.

This may thrill their mothers and spouses but it is not what war reporting is about.

When I covered conflicts for BBC TV News, presenters presented and reporters went out with a camera crew.

They filmed the footage that was then edited into a tight package for transmission to London. The reporter was heard but often not seen.

The images of war were rightly judged as more important than another chance to see a reporter standing in front of dead tank or a building destroyed days before.

Now, the reporters image dominates the screen, sometimes seen at the beginning, middle and end of a two-minute report. And then the rooftop presenter comes to the reporter on another rooftop for what was known at ITN during Sir Trevor MacDonalds time as the, Well, Trevor interview.

Story continues

East Anglian Daily Times: Well, Trevor

Well, Trevor

Again, without pictures of what is actually going on?

The huge technical advances that make live coverage not just possible but cheap have robbed television news of some of its sharpness and integrity.

If the cameras can hosepipe Gaza night and day, there are endless possibilities for what the Americans call Grand-standing but every British child knows as showing off .

We see a succession of male reporters with studied expressions of concern, shirts not just open at the neck but artfully showing tufts of chest hair, their manly chins embellished by sweat and stubble. There is no excuse for it.

As most reporters do not have RADA on their CV, few are convincing when emoting for our greater understanding of Israel and Gazas agonies.

Reporting from the Green Line, dividing Muslim and Christian Beirut, during the Lebanese Civil War 1974-84, I wore a lightweight suit and a tie.

When a colleague suggested that this might be too formal with fighting going on all around, I told him it was protection.

My camera crew wore T-shirts saying British Press in Arabic but I calculated that my wearing of a tie might cause any passing gunman to hesitate before taking aim.

Dressed like that, I certainly wasnt a combatant. It may have been stupid but it worked.

Now, reporters wear helmets and body armour as the BBC attempts to mitigate its responsibilities for the safety of its staff.

But a flak jacket did not prevent Martin Bell being wounded by shrapnel in Bosnia.

I was beaten up in Belfast but was never wounded in Israel, Syria, Egypt, Lebanon, El Salvador, Zaire or Rhodesia.

I didnt wear my flak jacket in Beirut but I did put it over my head when I went to sleep, in case the windows of the Ambassador Hotel were blown in.

Though you might not guess it, the reporters live in hotels. Israel has many 5-star establishments. They all have laundry services and hot water. There is no excuse for sweat-strained shirts and stubble chins on camera, unless for macho effect. It is many years since the battery-operated shaver was invented.

Sky Televisions Mark Austin never appears with five days of stubble. But then Mark, a former colleague and old friend who had family connections to Metfield in the Waveney Valley, is old school and wins awards.

East Anglian Daily Times: Mark Austin

Mark Austin

Alan Whickers producer Ellis Whiddup once asked him, as they were boarding the cage to go down a coal mine, why he insisted on wearing his famous suit?

Because Alan Whicker wears a suit, he said. And I have 18 of them, identical.

Almost all of the coverage from Gaza and southern Israel is the work of local cameraman or those working for the Israel Defence Force, the IDF.

Then the imported reporter does his piece to camera, with a palm tree in the background as set-dressing.

The BBC is throwing away credibility by allowing reporters to be dressed more like combatants than reporters. It shows disrespect for the viewer. Surgeons wear scrubs. Airline captains wear shirts with four stripes on their epaulettes. TV reporters should dress for the job. That means not dressing in a way that distracts the viewer from what they are saying. A little formality can never be out of place.

Battlefield tourists is the trade term of contempt for reporters who become infatuated with the excitement of war and think that the most important thing about it is their own compelling presence.

They are usually the last to get off their rooftops. We are not interested in the opinion on the rooftop. We want to hear from the front line, what the people involved are feeling and thinking.

Thats what real reporters want too. The best ones see in the casualties of war the reflections of their own children and loved ones. Its dangerous but then war reporting always has been.

One Reuters journalist has already been killed in this conflict by Israeli bombing in southern Lebanon. Reporters are there to observe and report as accurately as possible. They are not there to act out a balcony scene in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv, far from the real war two hours to the south.
Carrickfergus based injection moulding company, IPC Mouldings, has received its fifth consecutive gold performance award as part of the SC21 Operational Excellence programme. Pictured are Colin Hart, ADS, Joanne Liddle, IPC Mouldings, Alan Henning, Collins Aerospace, Graeme Bennett, IPC Mouldings

Carrickfergus injection moulding company, IPC Mouldings, has received its fifth consecutive gold performance award as part of the 21st Century Supply Chain (SC21) Operational Excellence programme, showcasing the companys superiority in delivery, quality, sustainable improvement within the aerospace sector.

SC21 is a continuous programme coordinated and governed by ADS, the trade organisation for aerospace, defence, security and space, which is designed to accelerate the competitiveness of the aerospace and defence sector by raising the performance of its supply chains.

IPC Mouldings is one of only seven companies across the UK to hold the prestigious gold award standard and has been sponsored through the SC21 programme by Collins Aerospace, an RTX business.

The gold award was presented to the company at an ADS Aircraft Interiors group meeting, hosted by Collins Aerospace, in the Kilmorey Arms Hotel in Kilkeel.

Joanne Liddle, managing director of IPC Mouldings, said: I am delighted that IPC Mouldings has again been recognised with the SC21 Gold performance standard award for our achievement of 99.8% delivery and 99.96% quality across all our customers orders during the 12-month period up to 1 June 2023.

We take an integrated approach to supply chain optimisation, focusing on process to reduce waste and redundant effort and collaborating in forecasting, planning and capacity management to improve service levels and mitigate risk. We are a partner providing solutions to our customers, and we understand that through that partnership, we often find ways to unlock new sources of value to benefit both. It is this close communication that validates our performance metrics and ensures our shared success.

I would like to thank Alan Henning, managing director of Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel and all the team, for continuing to sponsor IPC Mouldings through the SC21 Programme. To have their support is a great honour.

Looking forward, IPC Mouldings will continue to grow and diversify our business through innovation and expertise, and we will work to retain gold award level and identify further improvements that we can make. This programme not only helps us retain competitiveness but is a key driver of continuous improvement.

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Alan Henning, managing director, Collins Aerospace in Kilkeel, added: I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Joanne and all the team at IPC Mouldings on the reaccreditation of the SC21 Gold Award. This is a significant achievement which is nationally recognised and further cements IPC Mouldings place as a key supply chain operator.

We work closely with the company and have been impressed by how it supports its customers and ensures outstanding quality and delivery performance through the whole product life cycle. It is testament to all the teams hard work that they have been recognised with SC21 Gold for five years in a row.

Valued highly by many global organisations, the SC21 international programme promotes the continuous improvement and acceleration of the competitiveness and capabilities of the Aerospace and Defence Supply Chains worldwide.

Colin Hart, competitiveness programme director at ADS, continued: We congratulate IPC Mouldings on their retention of their SC21 Gold Award. Throughout their history with the programme, they have consistently delivered outstanding results.

The awards are designed to empower businesses from the UKs thriving industrial base, and the gold award recognises the outstanding ability of businesses to achieve at least 99.0% delivery and 99.0% quality performance. The award also recognises organisational efforts to reduce supply chain risk, and the implementation of leaner production methods.

Companies that have secured the recognition, whether bronze, silver or gold, go through rigorous assessments which are designed to accelerate the performance and competitiveness within the aerospace supply chain sector.

By taking part in the SC21 programme, IPC Mouldings is well positioned to promote its supply chain excellence to a much wider audience.

IPC Mouldings is a leading provider of injection moulded parts and engineered assemblies for the most demanding of applications, helping customers solve problems, reduce costs, and assure quality. The company is a collaborative supply chain partner in aircraft interiors providing a full-service, offering mould tool design and manufacture, CNC machining, injection moulding and final assembly. It provides key aircraft products including food trays and latch assemblies, armcaps and video bezels.
The boss of Tescos UK business is to step down next year, with a former Aldi executive set to replace him in the role.

The UKs largest supermarket group said UK chief executive Jason Tarry has decided to leave the business in March 2024.

He has led the UK operation for six years, playing a significant role in its turnaround amid the fallout of its accounting scandal and related 129 million fine.

Mr Tarry, who worked for the business for around 33 years in total, most recently helped lead the company through the Covid-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.

Matthew Barnes was chief executive of Aldi UK and Ireland until 2018 (Aldi/PA)

The supermarket giant said he will be replaced in the high-profile role by former Aldi UK and Ireland chief executive Matthew Barnes.

Tesco group CEO Ken Murphy said: Jason has made an immense contribution to our business.

Under his leadership, Tesco today is the most competitive we have ever been, built on exceptionally strong foundations of doing the right thing for our customers and colleagues.

Mr Tarry said: Little could I have imagined 33 years ago, the journey I would go on with Tesco.

My life in Tesco has been a wonderful experience.

This decision was not made easily but this is the right time for me to move on.

Mr Barnes, who was Aldis UK and Ireland boss from 2015 to 2018, will take over the role after stepping down from the board of Aldis parent firm earlier this year.

It comes as Tesco has sought to attract and retain shoppers by committing to match Aldi prices for a range of its most popular products.

Mr Barnes said: I come to this role with a real sense of determination to ensure that we build on the progress of the last number of years and deliver for our customers and colleagues.

Mr Murphy added: I believe the combination of Matthews extensive retail experience, competitive spirit and challenger mindset will help us continue to win in the UK market and evolve our thinking about what customers will want from Tesco in the future.
Hyundai Motor, HD Hyundai chiefs help Korea boost ties with Saudi Arabia, Qatar

By Park Jae-hyuk

The two grandsons of late Hyundai Group founder Chung Ju-yung were the businesspeople who attracted the greatest amount of attention among a 200-member-strong Korean business delegation that accompanied President Yoon Suk Yeol on his recent state visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

In the Middle East, where their grandfather earned great fortunes for Koreas economic development, both Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Chung Euisun and HD Hyundai CEO Chung Ki-sun enabled their country to boost ties with the Arab nations, leading each of their companies to strike mega-size deals there this week, according to industry officials, Thursday.

The older Chung, who is the only son of Hyundai Motor Group Honorary Chairman Chung Mong-koo, directed the carmakers joint venture agreement with the Public Investment Fund, a Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund, for the construction of a $500 million automated vehicle manufacturing plant there.

Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman is also said to have told Yoon that he hopes they will be able to ride together in a Saudi-made Hyundai electric vehicle (EV) next time he visits the country, when the prince personally drove the Korean president to an investment forum in Riyadh.

In addition, the Hyundai Motor Group chief reminded Koreans of the construction of Jubail Industrial Port in eastern Saudi Arabia, which was led by his grandfather in the 1970s, during his visit to a tunnel construction site for THE LINE, part of the NEOM smart city project, which is being constructed by one of the groups subsidiaries, Hyundai E&C.

Hyundai E&C and its subsidiary, Hyundai Engineering, also received a $2.4 billion order from Saudi Arabias state-run oil giant Aramco, related to the construction of a mega-sized gas processing plant in the Jafurah gas field.

Hyundai E&C has set a history with credibility and the group will also play a part in elevating the global footing of the construction arm, the chairman told Hyundai E&C employees. The top priority for the ongoing project should be quality and safety.

The younger Chung, who is the oldest son of HD Hyundais largest shareholder, Asan Foundation Chairman Chung Mong-joon, also played a major role in strengthening Korea and Saudi Arabia's economic cooperation this week.

HD Hyundai agreed with Saudi state-run enterprises in 2017 to set up a joint venture, International Maritime Industries (IMI), and build a shipyard in the Saudi town of Ras Al-Khair. Yoon mentioned IMI as the most notable example of the two countries economic partnership, during the Korea-Saudi Arabia Investment Forum, Sunday (local time).

In Qatar, the shipbuilding group clinched a $3.9 billion deal with QatarEnergy, Wednesday (local time), regarding the construction of 17 liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers. The deal, which followed a memorandum of agreement reached last month, was the largest-ever single contract in the history of the Korean shipbuilding industry.

The HD Hyundai CEO also delivered the opening remarks during the Korea-Qatar Business Forum, Wednesday (local time), expressing hopes for both countries cooperation in various industrial sectors, including petrochemicals, smart farms, health care and culture.

The presidential office recognized the two grandsons of the late Hyundai founder for their impressive achievements in the Middle East, which is preparing for the post-oil era.

In the past, it was difficult to imagine Korea and Middle Eastern countries cooperating through joint manufacturing of EVs and ships, said Choi Sang-mok, senior presidential secretary for economic affairs.
Representational image of a baby (PA)

A 16-month-old toddler died in Malaysia after allegedly being left inside a car by her father at a public university for nearly the entire day.

Initial investigation revealed that on Tuesday the father forgot to drop off his daughter at the university's daycare centre when he arrived in the morning, The Star reported.

The man rushed to his vehicle at around 4.30pm (local time) only to find his child lying unconscious inside the hot car. He took the baby to the university's healthcare centre where she was pronounced dead by the staff.

Police rushed to the scene as soon as we received the report and found that the baby had already died, said Kuala Terengganu district police chief Abdul Rahim Md Din.

An autopsy was conducted at the Sultanah Nur Zahirah hospital on Tuesday night and the authorities were awaiting the report to ascertain the cause of the death, he added.

Police have opened an investigation under the country's Child Act 2001. A person could be jailed up to 10 years or fined up to RM20,000 (3,455) or both if found guilty of ill-treating, neglecting, abandoning or exposing children in a manner that leads to physical and emotional injuries under this law.

It was the second such incident of a baby dying in a car due to their parents alleged neglect in less than a month.

An eight-month-old girl died after being left in a car by her mother for 10 hours in Kuala Lumpur earlier in October.

The child's mother had placed her daughter in the rear passenger seat of a car at 7.20am (local time) to take her to a nursery, according to the local police.

The mother, who is a doctor, went to work under the assumption that her daughter had already been dropped off at the nursery.

She realised that her daughter was still in the car only when her husband called in the evening to say that their daughter had not been sent to the nursery, Cheras district police chief Zam Halim Jamaluddin told The Straits Times.

The victim died on the same day, he said in a statement.
Russian president Vladimir Putin and North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un shake hands during their meeting at the Vostochny cosmodrome in September this year (AP via Sputnik)

The US, South Korea, and Japan strongly condemned the supply of military equipment by North Korea to Russia and said these deliveries would significantly increase the human toll of Moscows war against Ukraine.

The US and its Asian allies said in a joint statement they could now confirm that such weapons deliveries have taken place between the two countries which are isolated on the world stage.

The condemnation came amid increasing speculation of an arms deal between Russia and North Korea following a number of high-profile visits between the diplomats and leaders of both the countries.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the top diplomats of the three countries.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied the allegations that Russia was receiving munitions from North Korea, claiming instead that Washington has failed to prove the charge.

Both countries have increasingly sought to rely on each other as Russias invasion of Ukraine approached its second winter.

Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo said they were closely monitoring any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of Kim Jong-uns military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said.

The joint condemnation signed by South Korean foreign minister Park Jin, US secretary of state Antony Blinken, and Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa also underscored that arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shakes hands with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov during a meeting in Pyongyang (via REUTERS)

Earlier this year, the North Korean leader had visited Russia and met Mr Putin in the most prominent sign that the countries were looking to prop up their regimes by supporting each other by sharing military hardware and technology.

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The talks reportedly focused on an arms deal in exchange for technological support to Pyongyangs fledgling space programme.

Just last week, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov also visited Pyongyang and met the North Korean leader. Both leaders praised the ties between their countries that they said had increased to a new level.

Mr Lavrov said in a reception speech that Moscow deeply valued Pyongyangs unwavering and principled support for Russia in the war.

The meeting was seen as groundwork for a potential second summit between Mr Kim and Mr Putin after the Kremlin leader accepted the invitation to travel to North Korea at a convenient time.

Analysts have said the two countries have been forced to turn to each other as they have been isolated on the world stage.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and Russian president Vladimir Putin talk at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the city of Blagoveshchensk in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, on 13 September 2023

North Koreas supply of its arsenal holds importance for Moscow as it has been going through artillery shells, missiles and other munitions for its Ukraine invasion.

This comes as Moscows domestic production has struggled to keep up with biting Western sanctions as Ukraine has unleashed a months-long counteroffensive that has been rolling on since June.

Earlier this month, the White House claimed North Korea delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia.

The White House released satellite images it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

A US think-tank had last month shared satellite images showing continued activity around a North Korean port near Russia. It captured at least six trips by sea between North Koreas port of Rajin and Russias Dunai port since late August.

These shipments were possibly related to the transfer of North Korean munitions to Russia, the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies had said.
Joe Kennedy III chaired a special Belfast/Good Friday Agreement Panel discussion in Parliament Buildings with panel members Gerry Adams, Eileen Bell (pictured), Mark Durkan, Peter Robinson and Lady Daphne Trimble.Photo by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye.

The US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs said that the insurance and technology company plans to establish an engineering development team that will create 31 jobs.

It is estimated the project will generate an additional 1.9 million in annual salaries for the local economy.

The announcement comes as Mr Kennedy leads a delegation of senior US business and investment leaders on a four-day visit to Northern Ireland.

Yesterday, the delegation visited the Belfast Campus of Ulster University.

Mr Kennedy said investment was a further mark that President Joe Biden's ambitions for a trade delegation to Northern Ireland were being realised.

He added: "Frontline is joining the many US investors who have experienced success and growth in Northern Ireland and is setting up its new engineering development team, taking advantage of the excellent skills available and the business-friendly environment.

"This investment underscores the compelling proposition that Northern Ireland offers."

Frontline is one of the largest carriers in the south-east United States with a presence in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and soon-to-be Virginia and Colorado.

It will operate in Northern Ireland under the brand OpenData Belfast.

Ivan Roche, originally from Co Cork, is the chief technology officer of OpenData Belfast, located in Belfast's Gasworks.

Mr Roche said he was excited to lead the new team that "will create innovative products to support the next stage of Frontline's growth using the best of local talent".

"Frontline was made aware of Northern Ireland's attractive business environment by Invest NI's US office and through meetings with NI Connections, both of which are championing the strengths of the region," he said.

"Before confirming the investment, our leadership team visited Northern Ireland and were impressed by what they saw."

The Northern Ireland team will deliver data analytics, data science, product development and support.
Pictured (L-R) are Nav Sandhu, Regional Manager Canada, Invest NI; Alex Chandran, Regional Director Benelux, Invest NI; Joe Cassidy, Sales Director, Terex GB Ltd; Des Gartland, North Western Regional Manager, Invest NI. Credit Invest NI

As well as representatives from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, a number of local companies including Terex GB Ltd briefed the delegation on how Invest NI has supported its journey to grow its exports globally.

Invest Northern Ireland has expanded Northern Irelands presence on the international stage as it supports Northern Ireland businesses in new locations from Paris to Toronto to Mumbai, India.

Des Gartland, Invest NIs North Western Regional Manager said: Our new staff will add to our already strong expertise and networks across the world and support the growth of our economy by attracting new FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) and assisting Northern Ireland companies to access new markets and grow their exports.

It was great to welcome a delegation of our new staff to Northern Ireland from countries including Europe, the US, Mexico and Singapore and to have the opportunity to showcase Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area as an attractive location for new inward investment.

We are also delighted to have the support of the Council who gave an excellent presentation on the regions attractiveness for investors. The new staff also got to hear first-hand from a panel of local companies including Terex GB Ltd, who have sites across Northern Ireland, including Ballymoney about how Invest NI has supported its journey to grow its exports globally.

We would encourage companies across Causeway Coast and Glens area to get in touch to see how we can support your business to grow.
The Royal British Legion launches the Poppy Appeal in Northern Ireland today, with a new plastic-free poppy that is made entirely from paper and can be easily recycled.Helping to launch the Appeal in Northern Ireland are Poppy Appeal Managers Lyn Palmer and Alanna Meharg, along with Poppy Man, local volunteer collector Darren. They are encouraging people to wear the poppy, to show the Armed Forces Community that their service is appreciated.The Royal British Legions Poppy Appeal raises vital funds to support the Armed Forces Community all year round. To find out more about the Poppy Appeal - from the red poppys origins as a symbol of Remembrance and hope, to news of how the Legion helps the Armed Forces community across the UK today - visit www.britishlegion.org.uk. (Photo: Chris Neely)

The recyclable poppy is the biggest redesign of the iconic symbol of Remembrance in 28, the ex-services charity said.

Made of 100% paper and easily recycled in household collections, the innovative new design features a black centre embossed with Poppy Appeal and a leaf with a crease.

Members of the public will be able to get their poppy  both the original version or the new plastic-free version  from thousands of volunteers across the UK, or from major supermarkets.

All funds raised from the Poppy Appeal will be used by the Royal British Legion to support serving personnel, veterans, and their families in a range of ways, from help with the cost of living, mental wellbeing and housing, to support with recovery after trauma or illness.

Volunteer Poppy Appeal Organiser for Belfast city centre, Darren, said: As a veteran, the Poppy Appeal is very close to my heart. I volunteer for the appeal because when I needed help the RBL were the first to step forward and offer their services to me and my family.

"I think the RBL is an amazing organisation, and its a pleasure for me to support the Poppy Appeal  Im proud to be able to give a little something back, in return for all that the Legion has done for our Armed Forces community.



The plastic-free poppy is made from 100% paper and easily recycled in household collections. The innovative new poppy design features iconic poppy shape, with a black centre embossed with Poppy Appeal, and a leaf with a crease. It no longer has a plastic stem or centre, and it can be fastened with a pin in the stem, worn in a buttonhole, or a stick-on version is available.

The Royal British Legion has been developing the plastic-free poppy for the past three years, in collaboration with expert partners, as it works to reduce its use of single-use plastic and be economical, sustainable, and less impactful to the environment.

The poppy has been created from bespoke red and green paper produced from a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources, 50 per cent of which come from the offcuts created during the production of paper coffee cups.

The launch of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal marks the start of the national period of Remembrance, when the nation wears the poppy and reflects on the service and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.

Members of the public will be able to get their poppy  the original version or the new plastic-free version - from thousands of volunteers across the UK, or from major supermarkets.

All funds raised from the Poppy Appeal will be used by the Royal British Legion to support serving personnel, veterans, and their families in a range of ways, from help with the cost of living, mental wellbeing and housing, to support with recovery after trauma or illness.

Launching the 2023 Appeal in Northern Ireland are Poppy Appeal Managers Lyn Palmer and Alanna Meharg, with help from Poppy Man Darren, who is one of the Appeals many amazing local collectors. Darren has been fundraising for the Poppy Appeal in Northern Ireland for many years and has recently taken on the important volunteer role of Poppy Appeal Organiser for Belfast City Centre.

Darren said: As a veteran, the Poppy Appeal is very close to my heart. I volunteer for the Appeal because when I needed help the RBL were the first to step forward and offer their services to me and my family. I think the RBL is an amazing organisation, and its a pleasure for me to support the Poppy Appeal  Im proud to be able to give a little something back, in return for all that the Legion has done for our Armed Forces community.

32-year-old veteran Elloyse Blair from Newtownabbey was one of the first people to wear the new poppy, which is completely recyclable. The RBL also supported Elloyse when she was struggling to cope after leaving the Armed Forces in 2018. Remarking on the new plastic-free poppy, Elloyse said: Wearing a poppy always makes me feel really proud, because it is so important to remember all the sacrifices that have been made by the Armed Forces. Its really exciting that this years poppy is plastic-free, but the message remains the same: wearing your poppy shows you care.

Lyn Palmer said: The Poppy Appeal has always received tremendous support from the Northern Ireland public, and we hope that this year will be no different. Every donation to the Poppy Appeal counts; it helps us continue to provide that vital support to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Wearing a poppy shows the Armed Forces community that their service is appreciated  it shows that you really do care.

Director of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, Andy Taylor-Whyte said:

We want to encourage as many people as possible to get a poppy this year and show their gratitude and support to those in the Armed Forces whose service and sacrifice should never be forgotten. Were so proud that this year, we have our new plastic-free poppy too, so that the public can wear this poignant symbol of Remembrance, with less impact on the environment.

Since the first Poppy Appeal in 1921 to today, public donations have provided a lifeline for service people and their families, and last year, we helped more than 27,000 people in the Armed Forces community.

As a veteran myself, I am grateful to the public for giving what they can to support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal this year. Donations enable us to support the Armed Forces community past and present, all year round, and shows them that wearing a poppy shows you care.
Crowd raising their hands and enjoying a great festival party. Shutterstock: bbernard

Dublin-based DJ and producer Eoin Kelly has announced that Sissy Hut, an all-new queer-friendly party, will be coming to Dublin this November.

Sissy Hut will celebrate its launch party at Wigwam on Saturday, November 4, with a headlining appearance from DERV, a staple of Irelands techno music scene. Jimmy Chaps, a Galway-based queer DJ, and OSSORY, an up-and-coming duo act, will similarly perform support sets at Sissy Huts debut party.

Kelly, who is also a founder of the Irish dance crew, In Da Pocket, said that he hopes Sissy Hut will create a safe, inclusive space for people in the community and allies to enjoy themselves without judgment, dress comfortably and sweat the night away in peace.

While the techno-themed dance party will require guests to tape their cameras, the event will be photographed professionally throughout the night. According to Kelly, the team behind Sissy Hut hopes that this will allow people to stay focused on the music while we capture gorgeous snaps of everyone.

A promotional poster for Sissy Hut. On it, it has purple and orange graphics with the text: "Sissy Hut presents Derv Ossory Jimmy Chaps" and in a separate box: "wigwam 04/11/23".

While Kelly recognises that there are already a number of queer parties happening throughout Dublins LGBTQ+ community, including Strawberries, tender, and NSFW, the DJ told GCN that, with Sissy Hut, we wanted to put our own personal twist on it, with the acts we want to see while promoting emerging talent.

According to Kelly, the all-new club night hopes to fill what he sees as a gap in the market for a techno-led queer night.

We wanted to contribute to the existing safe, inclusive spaces for queers and allies in Dublin to express themselves, Kelly said. Because the more than merrier.

Sissy Hut is a safe, inclusive space for people in the community and allies, who can unite under one roof without judgment. Our goal is to deliver on this ethos with the focus being on techno music, Kelly concluded.

Tickets for Sissy Hut are on sale now, starting from just 6.34. It is the latest of several queer parties to be held at Wigwam, located on Middle Abbey Street. Other upcoming LGBTQ+ friendly events coming to the venue in the near future include Sams Collective Nightclub, HONEYPOT 009, and NSFW.

The post New queer techno party Sissy Hut is coming to Dublin appeared first on GCN.
Significant gaps remain between the Government and the DUP in talks over post-Brexit trading arrangements, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said.

The DUP leader would not predict any timeframe for a conclusion to negotiations which could lead to a return of the Stormont powersharing institutions, but said that progress was being made.

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 has been involved in negotiations with the Government about the Windsor Framework, which reformed the protocol and is seeking further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market.

The DUP has been blocking powersharing at Stormont for more than a year (Liam McBurney/PA)

Sir Jeffrey joined other Northern Ireland party leaders in Belfast for a meeting with a delegation of US business leaders led by special envoy Joe Kennedy.

The DUP leader said: We meet regularly as party leaders and we have been doing that over the past number of months.

There is a lot of co-operation, a lot of talking between the parties, that has been going on for weeks in anticipation that at some stage, hopefully soon, we may be in a position to see a government formed.

But we are not there yet.

There are still gaps to be closed, there are still issues that need to be resolved in our dialogue with the Government, but we are working each and every week to resolve those issues.

I think that we have made progress, but there are still significant gaps in terms of what we need to ensure that the new arrangements which replace the Northern Ireland Protocol work for Northern Ireland, that they enable us to trade with the rest of the United Kingdom in a way where those barriers created by the protocol have been removed in terms of the movement of goods from Northern Ireland to Great Britain, or Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

The DUP leader said he would not predict a timeframe for a potential deal but hoped it could happen sooner rather than later.

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He added: Every process of dialogue reaches a moment where you have taken the talking as far as you can and decisions are needed.

I dont think we are in that place yet, I think there is still some room to move, I think there is still a distance to travel to get the outcome that we need, we are moving in the right direction.

I want to get this right and we will keep working at it until we have made the progress we need to make.

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joe Kennedy is leading a trade delegation to the region (Liam McBurney/PA)

The DUP leader said there was no pressure placed upon him from US business leaders for a return of Stormont.

He said: They are very clear that the politics of Northern Ireland is for the politicians of Northern Ireland.

They are looking for the opportunities here in terms of business, investment and growing our economy and creating jobs.

We very much welcome their interest and I think it is a sign that Northern Ireland is still open for business, we are still creating jobs, we have had lots of jobs announcements in recent months, we have had an announcements of major investments in Northern Ireland and that is something we will continue to work with the business community to deliver.
Warning: This article contains spoilers for season 2 of The White Lotus.

The second season of HBOs The White Lotus ended on as shocking a note as any whodunnit could. And yet, we still didnt see it coming. Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge) takes a tragic slip off the side of a yacht and falls to her death. Her corpse is discovered in the Ionian Sea the next day by Daphne (Meghann Fahy), along with the bodies of the captors she murdered in order to escape. Hey, at least Tanya went out guns blazing. Although, she really shouldve taken her heels off first.

More from Robb Report

Just like the first season, White Lotus creator and showrunner Mike White had audiences engrossed in epic landscapes (Hawaii then Sicily), and also entangled in the complex web of characters he created. Who knew that by the end of this installation, wed all be rooting for a pair of scheming escorts? As it turns out, troubled and ultra-rich vacationers are his specialty, and audiences want nothing more than to see these elites get played. And boy did they.

Now that fans are done theorizing about the finale, theres only one question that remains: where in the world will White take us next? Speculation around season three of White Lotus has already started. Fans are dissecting every morsel of information that the writer and director has given thus far. When will it come out? Who will be in the cast? What will it be about? Here, we break down everything you need to know about the upcoming season.

Yes, There Will Be a Season 3 of The White Lotus

Yes! HBO officially renewed The White Lotus for a third season back in November. You can expect a change of scenery and an ensemble of new characters. According to the network, the anthology series will return with a fresh set of vacationers checking into another White Lotus hotel.

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Reflecting on The White Lotus humble, run-and-gun origin as a contained pandemic production, its impossible not to be awestruck by how Mike orchestrated one of the buzziest and most critically acclaimed shows, Francesca Orsi, executive vice president of HBO Programming and head of HBO drama series and films, said in a press statement. And yet, hes only continued to reach new heights in season 2, which is the ultimate testament to Mikes raw, unparalleled vision. His courage to explore the uncharted waters of the human psyche, paired with his signature irreverent humor and buoyant directing style, have us all dreaming of more vacation days at the resort weve come to adore. We couldnt be more thrilled to get the chance to collaborate on a third season together.

The White Lotus Season 3 Release Date: When Will It Air?

White Lotus season three was reportedly in the early stages of production before the writers strike brought everything in Hollywood to a halt. Now that the WGA strike has ended, its been announced that the next installment will air in 2025, which is further out than fans and the network were hoping.

The news was recently confirmed by HBO chairman and CEO Casey Bloys during a press event, Variety reported. White Lotus Season 3 probably would have been in play for 2024, its 2025, said Bloy.

While the exact premiere date has yet to be revealed, well make our best guess in the meantime. The first season of White Lotus made its debut back in July 2021 and the second installment aired a little over a year later in October 2022. So, its likely were looking at a potential summer or fall 2025 release.

The White Lotus Season 3 Will Take Place in Thailand

Next year, the Maldives! Daphne may have been joking when she suggested visiting the South Asian archipelago for another contentious couples retreat, but she might not have been far off. White told Robb Reports sister site Deadline that Asia isnt off the table for season three after season one took place in Hawaii and season two was based in Italy. I think itd be fun to maybe go to a whole different continent. You know, we did Europe, and maybe Asia, something crazy like that, that would be fun.

Executive producer David Bernad confirmed our suspicions during a keynote event at the Berlinale Series Market in Germany saying, Weve tried to work in Asia a lot and hopefully Season 3 will be our chance to make something happen there.

Of course, Asia is a very big place, leaving plenty of room for speculation. However, Variety reported that production will take place in Thailand. While Tokyo was the rumored locale for a while, it was confirmed by Deadline that the reason White settled on Thailand for season three was ultimately due to tax incentives.

At the Tokyo Film Festival, Japanese producer Georgia Pope spoke about a location scouting trip that she went on with a high profile showrunner and his producers and studio executives. It was a great scout, Pope recalled in her MPA keynote address. We saw some absolutely stunning locations all over Honshu. The showrunner loved it all, and I was feeling very confident that I had it all in the bag.

Things ultimately took a turn when a Thai production company informed the White Lotus crew of a 30 percent rebate. For their project, that meant $4.4 million aloneAt the time in Japan, we had no incentive in place at allAll I could hear was the sound of a $35 million project flying out the window, Pope said.

While its not confirmed which hotel property in Thailand will host the series, its probably safe to assume that another real-life Four Seasons resort will act as the White Lotus. The hotel chains Maui and Taormina locations were used during filming for the previous installments. And in Thailand, there are outposts in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, and the Golden Triangle.

Jennifer Coolidge as Tanya McQuoid in season two of The White Lotus.

The White Lotus Season 3 Story: What Will Happen?

As for whats in store for season three, were short on specifics, but, thankfully, White did offer up some details on the potential theme in an exclusive clip for HBO. The first season kind of highlighted money, and then, the second season is sex. And I think the third season it would be maybe a kind of satirical and funny look at death and Eastern religion and spirituality. And it feels like it could be a rich tapestry to do another round at White Lotus.

White also hinted that parts of season two could carry over into the third. Namely, the murder-for-hire plot involving Greg (Jon Gries), Tanyas husband, and Portia (Haley Lu Richardson), her assistant, who was only starting to put the pieces together. I think as far as like, what happens to Greg and the conspiracy of Tanyas death, its possible that I think Portia is scared enough to just leave it alone, but the fact that all of those guys die on the boat, it feels like theres gotta be somebody whos gonna track it back down to Greg. But maybe youll have to wait to find out what happens.

You can hear all of Whites thoughts on The White Lotus season two finale below.

The White Lotus Season 3 Cast: Whos Returning?

If you recall, Coolidge and Greiss characters were the only links between seasons one and two, so we wouldnt be all that surprised if they reappeared in the third iteration as well. Although, its unclear if there are plans for Coolidge to reprise her role in any capacity, you know, given Tanyas tragic death. If White does opt to continue the storyline, Coolidge has some choice words for the fate of her on-screen husband.

My hope for Jon is that hes not finished with Greg, Coolidge told The Bear star Jeremy Allan White during Varietys Actors on Actors series. I hope theres some comeuppance for evil Greg. I think he should, I dont know, end up in a meat-grinding machine.

Earlier this year, White reportedly told season one star Connie Britton that her character, Nicole, could return to the show. He wanted me to be in the second season, and there was an idea that I loved for the character, Britton told Deadline. Our intention is to do it in the third season. A piece of casting didnt work in the second season and were hoping to [do] that in the third season. I would love to see a spinoff on every character in that show. Dont get too excited, though. A spokesperson for Britton later revealed to TVLine that she is not participating in the upcoming season.

There is one piece of news, though, that has been confirmed. The third installment will welcome back White Lotus vet Natasha Rothwell. Viewers will remember her as season one spa manager, Belinda Lindsey, who was scammed by Tanya. But hey, maybe this time shell be making an appearance as a guest of the resort instead of an employee. Crazier things have happened.

Natasha Rothwell as Belinda Lindsey in season one of The White Lotus.

Where to Stream The White Lotus Season 3

When season three of The White Lotus does eventually drop, your best bet is to head to Max (formerly HBO Max) where the episodes will be released weekly. In the meantime, you can catch up on seasons one and two of The White Lotus via the streaming app. If you havent already subscribed to Max, the platform offers three plans. For those who dont mind ads, itll run you $9.99 per month or $99.99 for the year. That same service without ads will cost $15.99 a month or $149.99 a year. And if you opt for 4K UHD ad-free streaming, itll take you to $19.99 a month or $199.99 per year. Plus, you can stream the first episode of season one for free through the Max website. That should be enough to get you hooked.





Sign Up for Max:

Price: $9.99

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By Jhoo Dong-chan

SK Innovation has launched a project to help restore mangrove forests in Fiji as part of its move to counter environmental crises across the globe, the company said.

It signed an MOU with the Fiji government for the restoration of mangrove forests in the coastal area of Vanua Levu, the second-largest island in the South Pacific country.

We aim to create values not only by restoring forests but also by cooperating with residents in the area, said Lim Su-kil, head of the SK Innovation Value Creation Center. We will carry through our effort for sustainable growth and coexistence with nature.

He made the remarks during an MOU signing ceremony at the Pacific Community Narere Campus in Fijis capital Suva, Thursday.

Locals will participate in the Sk Innovation-funded project that starts next month. The company received donations for the program from visitors to its booth during the Consumer Electronics Show in January.

The project demonstrates our commitment to environment conservation and a sustainable future for the next generation, said Conservator of Forests at Fiji Ministry of Forestry Sanjana Lal. SK Innovations effort will bring positive effects in Fiji.

Pacific Community Secretariat Jalesi Mateboto also welcomed the Korean refiners support. Headquartered in Noumea, New Caledonia, Pacific Community is an international organization addressing various issues such as climate change, disaster risk management and food security for its 27 member countries around the Pacific Ocean.

A mangrove plays an important role not only in Fijis environment but also in Pacific countries ecosystems, Mateboto said. We are very happy with the partnership with SK Innovation. We will closely communicate with related parties for the project.

SK Innovation has expanded the restoration project for mangrove forests around the world. Starting its first in the southern Vietnamese province of Tra Vinh in 2018, the company has restored a total of 226 hectares in Southeast Asia. The figure is equivalent to 820,000 mangrove trees.

A mangrove is a shrub or tree that grows mainly in coastal saline or brackish water in an equatorial climate. It is known to support coastal and marine ecosystems. Mangrove forests are effective at carbon sequestration mitigating climate change. They also protect nearby areas from tsunamis and extreme weather events including sea level rise.
Steve Sisolak. Photo Credit: Courtesy

Silver State Equality, Nevadas statewide LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, will honor Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak and Winnemucca Pride at Silver State Equalitys third annual Silver State Equality Awards. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation will also present Nevada Senator Dallas Harris (District 11) with a Legislative Leadership Award for her efforts to modernize Nevadas HIV criminal laws in partnership with Silver State Equality. This years Silver State Equality Awards are proudly presented by the San Manuel Ban

The Silver State Equality Awards recognize individuals and organizations who have successfully championed and advanced legislation, initiatives and programs that promote full lived equality for LGBTQ+ Nevadans.

Nevada once again led the way in advancing LGBTQ+ civil rights and social justice for underserved and marginalized communities during the 2021 Nevada Legislature, said Andre C. Wade, State Director, Silver State Equality. We owe much of our success to support from leaders like Governor Sisolak and Senator Harris, so its particularly fitting that we honor them for their significant role in helping to pass voter protection legislation, modernizing HIV laws, improving healthcare access, increasing support for LGBTQ+-owned businesses, enacting meaningful change in school curriculum to include the histories of marginalized communities, allowing for all consenting parents to share in the duties and responsibilities of raising a child, and more. Additionally, we commend the members of Winnemucca Pride for its leadership in organizing the first-ever Pride event in rural Nevada, which garnered national and international attention.

Follow Vegas News for more LGBTQ+ news.
Allegiant Stadium. Photo Credit: Shutterstock

The Las Vegas Raiders are once again recommending that fully vaccinated fans attending the Sunday, November 21 game against Cincinnati download the CLEAR Health Pass before arriving at Allegiant Stadium. The fastest and easiest way to get into the stadium is by having your CLEAR Health Pass Green screen loaded and ready to go beforehand.

For those that cannot because they need to complete Alternate Screening or receive vaccinations, the Raiders are offering two locations at Allegiant Stadium on gameday Sunday, November 21, that will provide these servicesin Lot B on the north side and Lot J on the south side from 9 a.m.  3 p.m.

For those fans that are unable to use the CLEAR Health Pass to verify their vaccination status, Alternate Screening is being offered for the following circumstances:

If a fan is partially vaccinated as of November 7

If a fan has a vaccine that isnt supported by the CLEAR app (any vaccine other than Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson / Janssen)

If a fan has a digital vaccine card/a photo of a vaccine card that is unable to be uploaded to the CLEAR app

If a fan is bringing a vaccinated or partially vaccinated 12-13-year-old guest that is unable to be added to the CLEAR Health Pass

This is the sixth Raiders home game at Allegiant Stadium since the organizations announcement of the vaccine requirement for attendees pursuant to Governors State of Nevada Emergency Directive 049. Fans are required to use the CLEAR Health Pass to upload their vaccination information for admission. Full details about Alternate Screening, including ID and evidence of vaccination requirements as well as locations at the stadium, can be found here.

Stay on VegasNews.com for more sports content.
Carrot Top poses with other famous Las Vegas entertainers. Photo Credit: Carrot Top/Courtesy

Penn & Teller, Terry Fator, Piff the Magic Dragon, Blue Man Group and Tape Face join together to create video to commemorate this milestone

16 has never looked so sweet! Some of the most iconic performers in Las Vegas, including Penn & Teller, Terry Fator, Piff the Magic Dragon, Blue Man Group, and Tape Face, recently joined together to create a video in celebration of Carrot Tops 16th anniversary at Luxor Hotel and Casino.



When I started touring at the beginning of my career, I had two trunks and a strobe light, said Carrot Top. Now, here I am, celebrating 16 years at the Luxor with some of my best friends, who all came together to help me forever memorialize this anniversary!



Scott Carrot Top Thompson has been making audiences around the world laugh for more than three decades. Since his debut on Star Search more than 25 years ago, Carrot Top has soared to success and has become one of the most recognizable entertainers in the world. Since 2005, fans have flocked to his award-winning Las Vegas headlining residency at Luxor Hotel and Casino to catch comedys King of Props induce side-splitting laughter with his current take on pop culture, music, and headlines of the day in a continually evolving show. The trademark red locks and the undeniably inventive use of props have vaulted Carrot Top to the level that most comedians can only hope to reach. Named

Entertainer of the Year and Comedian of the Year, Carrot Top describes himself as a culmination of George Carlin (observational humor), Steven Wright (dark, sick humor) and Gallagher (the props).



Carrot Top performs Monday through Saturday at 8 p.m. in the Atrium Showroom at Luxor Hotel and Casino. For additional information and to purchase tickets, please visit carrottop.com.

Stay on VegasNews.com for more entertainment content.
By Baek Byung-yeul

Samsung Group is accelerating efforts to strengthen the role of outside directors in line with the intention of Lee Jae-yong, executive chairman of Samsung Electronics and de facto leader of Samsung Group, who has emphasized responsible management centered on the board of directors, the group said Thursday.

The nations largest conglomerate said Samsung SDI and Samsung SDS decided to introduce a system of senior outside directors at their board meetings held on Thursday.

Samsung said this system selects a senior outside director who represents the external directors of its affiliates to ensure an appropriate balance of management when a CEO or an inside director also plays the role of board chair.

The group added that the system is expected to enhance the independence and status of the board of directors as senior outside directors have the authority to convene and preside over meetings of outside directors, and they may also request reports from management on major issues.

Samsung affiliates that do not currently have outside directors as board chairs are also considering introducing the system of senior outside directors.

Eight affiliates  Samsung Electronics, Samsung Electro-Mechanics, Samsung Life Insurance, Samsung Fire & Marine Insurance, Samsung Securities, Samsung Card, Samsung Asset Management and Samsung C&T  already have outside directors as board chairs and are not subject to the introduction of the system of senior outside directors.

Samsung's introduction of the senior outside director system is a step towards improving corporate governance, enhancing transparency and expanding communication with the board of directors.

The senior outside director system is not currently mandatory for non-financial companies under the law here, but Samsung proactively adopted the system in order to actively accept diverse opinions from outside, the group said.

Introduction of the system is also seen as a reflection of the management philosophy of the Samsung leader, who has emphasized board-centered responsible management. Lee will celebrate his first anniversary as executive chairman of Samsung Electronics on Friday.








HA NOI  Enhancing competitiveness through digital transformation is vital for enterprises in a digital economy to create the foundation for transforming growth models and building an independent and autonomous economy, Deputy Chairman of Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hoang Quang Phong said at a forum on Wednesday in Ha Noi.

Developing the digital economy is a long journey, while the efficiency of economic integration depends largely on the competitiveness of the economy and enterprises, Phong said.

Hastening solutions to improve competitiveness for businesses is urgent, and will be the key for Viet Nam to promote innovation and digital technology application, thereby better capturing opportunities from the digital economy.

Trinh Minh Anh, Chief of the Office of the Interdisciplinary Steering Committee for International Economic Integration, said non-traditional business models were arising during the formation of the digital economy, which created opportunities for start-ups.

However, there were challenges, including the lack of capital, governance experience, technology and human resources, coupled with the shortage of capacity to deploy digital technologies which were hindering the transformation of production and business models.

Enterprises should be proactive in digital transformation while the Government should create favourable conditions for businesses to participate in the digital economy.

Minh Anh said digital transformation should be sped up in sectors such as energy, transport, education and training, medical treatment, e-commerce and agriculture.

He urged investments in improving the digital infrastructure system, platforms for online payments and cross-border transactions.

Digital transformation is not the same for every enterprise. Each should have a different method, depending on its business strategy and capacity, Anh said.

Taking advantage of new-generation FTAs was important to expand markets and promote cooperation for technology transfer, developing new business models and playing a role in the global supply chain, he said.

According to Nguyen Trong uong, an expert in digital transformation from the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Vietnamese economy was significantly affected by global uncertainties due to a high degree of economic openness.

uong cited the forecast of the Asian Development Bank that Viet Nams GDP growth rate would narrow from 8.02 per cent to 5.2 per cent this year.

While three growth drivers, including investment, export and construction, were struggling, it was necessary to renew growth drivers through digital transformation, he said.

uong said experiences from previous crises showed that enterprises which were active in making transformation would be able to adapt quickly to the new circumstances, recover faster and develop better in the post-crisis period.

With more than 71 per cent of the population regularly accessing the Internet, the most effective way to reach customers was through the digital environment, he said, urging firms to be customer focused, and data and automation driven.

Bui Thi Hai Yen, general director of the electronics company Hanel, said the competitiveness of enterprises in a digital economy is the ability to create high labour productivity. The only key is digital transformation.

It seemed that Vietnamese enterprises had not been well-prepared for participation in the global digital economy, Yen said, citing a report of the Ministry of Planning and Investment in 2022 that nearly 50 per cent of domestic enterprises temporarily halted digital transformation.

The first step was to increase enterprises understanding of digital transformation to have appropriate solutions, she said.

The biggest challenge in digital transformation is changing mind-set and production methods that have been formed for decades, to accept completely new ways of thinking and doing, Yen said. However, all challenges can be small before the once-in-a-thousand-years opportunity. Only in the digital era could we have the opportunity to make giant leaps forward.

The support from the Government was important for enterprises to implement digital transformation successfully, she said.

With a majority of firms being small and medium size, the Government should provide preferential policies to encourage SMEs to implement digital transformation, Bui Bich Lien, director of EMcom Joint Stock Company, said.  VNS
HA NOI  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh received Anthony Capuano, President and CEO of Marriott International Inc - the US hotel operator, franchisor and licensor in Ha Noi on October 25.

During the reception, the Vietnamese leader congratulated Marriott Group on its successes in developing high-end resort hotel chains in the world as well as in Viet Nam, saying that economic-trade, investment and financial cooperation between Viet Nam and the US is the main pillar and motivation to promote the bilateral relations.

Viet Nam wishes to continue developing relations with the US in a sustainable, effective and trustworthy manner, he added.

Viet Nam focuses on rapid and sustainable tourism development, considering this an important economic sector contributing to the economic development of the country in general and localities in particular, he said, noting that the country also creates the most favourable conditions for investors in the spirit of harmonious benefits and shared risks.

PM Chinh suggested Marriott continue expanding its investment in the field of tourism, and hotel and resort services with large-scale projects that match Viet Nam's conditions.

He urged the group to cooperate with Viet Nam in training and developing high-quality human resources meeting international standards; connect Vietnamese tourism with the region and the world; help Viet Nam diversify tourism products and supply chains and improve management capacity in the tourism industry; and support the country in restoring and developing tourism and air transport in the coming time.

For his part, Capuano highly valued Viet Nam's potential and advantages in tourism development, saying that the country is attractive to tourists thanks to its natural beauty, unique culture, and hospitable and friendly people, and attractive and diverse dishes.

He briefed the host on Marriotts operations in Viet Nam, saying that the group is managing 16 hotels and resorts of eight global brands such as JW Marriott, Le Meridien and Sheraton.

Marriott plans to expand business and investment activities in Viet Nam, aiming to open 20 more hotels and resorts in Ha Noi, HCM City, a Nang, and Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang Province, he added.

The firm will spread stories about Viet Nam and promote the country's image to international tourists, thus further promoting the local tourism industry, he said, adding that it will also use more high-quality Vietnamese human resources and actively implement social security activities in the country in the future.  VNS
HA NOI  ADB and the State Bank of Viet Nam (SBV) on Wednesday held a ceremony marking the implementation of the US$5 million technical assistance (TA), funded by the Government of Switzerland, to nurture financial technologies (fintech) that can help improve financial inclusion in Viet Nam.

The event was witnessed by a high-level delegation of the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).

This funding, along with a $2 million contribution from the Japan Fund for Prosperous and Resilient Asia and the Pacific (JFPR), financed by the Government of Japan, will support the expansion of inclusive and climate finance in the country.

Barriers to finance in Viet Nam extend beyond individuals and particularly affect microenterprises and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Women-owned and women-led SMEs (WSMEs) are even more adversely affected, with an estimated $1.2 billion financing gap. Therefore, the TA is crucial in helping advance the access to finance of SMEs and WSMEs in particular and will do so by supporting SBV in developing and implementing the regulatory framework for strengthening the digital finance sector, ensuring safe market conduct and a thriving ecosystem.

The State Bank of Viet Nam highly appreciates this Technical Assistance Project and considers this one of the very important supports to help create a favourable environment for the development of fintech to improve quality and diversification in providing financial products and services to people and businesses, thereby actively contributing to promoting national financial inclusion, said SBVs Deputy Governor Pham Tien Dung. The project also makes an important contribution to promoting green growth through the development and contribution of green banking and green credit.

In Viet Nam, fintech is the key to accelerating innovative and convenient financial solutions and services to reach the unbanked and underbanked segments, including SMEs, and enhance efficiency and financial security, said ADB Country Director for Viet Nam Shantanu Chakraborty. Following earlier fruitful collaboration with SBV, we are excited to join efforts in further fostering the digital banking transformation in Viet Nams fast-growing market.

The TA contemplates training opportunities on fintech and green banking best practices for SBV staff, targeting 25 per cent female participation and consulting services to WSMEs on preparing green loan applications. Additionally, it will build the capacity for relevant government ministries and members of fintech and banking associations and assist selected commercial banks in developing digital banking.

This technical-assistance programme further expands Switzerlands comprehensive support to strengthen and deepen the financial sector of Viet Nam. Through strengthening Viet Nams fintech industry and fostering the digitalisation of the banking sector, the programme offers new opportunities for Small- and Medium-size Enterprises to improve their access to financing, Swiss State Secretary for Economic Affairs Dominique Paravicini added.  VNS
As the UK-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA) marks its second year in force, Christopher Jeffery, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce Vietnam (BritCham Vietnam), shares insights with Viet Nam News reporter Mai Huong on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by British businesses in Viet Nam. This dialogue captures the essence of the evolving relationship between the two nations.

What recent progress has been made in the trade ties between Viet Nam and the UK two years after the implementation of UKVFTA? Have British businesses observed improvements in business conditions and market opportunities in Viet Nam as a result of the trade deal?

I believe we have. I think the key thing is to realise that a trade deal is a long-term development of the relationship between the two countries, building up trust and understanding. The trade deal presents an opportunity for British business to engage with Vietnamese suppliers, offering support both in the UK and in Viet Nams pursuit of its future objectives.

The free trade agreement is an exciting start and we've seen an increase in the number of UK companies expressing interest in Viet Nam. This interest spans across various scale, ranging from multi-billion dollar companies to small- and medium-sized ones. Their aim is to leverage Viet Nam as a production hub.

The UK is committed to making long-term contributions to Viet Nams development, well-being and prosperity. Viet Nam aims to become a leader in AI and finance through initiatives like the International Finance Centre initiative and all those areas Britain possesses great expertise and so we need to educate the UK about the opportunity linked with Viet Nam.

Yet, from the UK perspective, there are still several challenges and one of them is the lack of understanding about the business landscape in Viet Nam. So, it's crucial to educate people about the immense opportunities presented by Viet Nam, with its population of 100 million people and rapidly growing middle class.

Another challenge involves establishing a clear framework for taxation and investment, as well as providing reliable incentives which will offer stability and predictability to businesses, enabling them to make informed decisions and invest in Viet Nam.

Which sectors do British businesses have plans to invest or expand their operations in Viet Nam?

I think it's renewable energy, finance services, as well as the food and drink sectors. These sectors present promising opportunities for growth and collaboration between businesses of both countries.

For the renewable energy sector, taking into account the UKs commitment since the signing of the free trade agreement, we can observe a massive interest from the UK businesses in this sector, not only in terms of equipment supply, but also in providing funding.

Additionally, the automobile sector is also a significant area that stands to benefit from the tariff reductions associated with the free trade agreement. There is keen interest in supporting Viet Nams automobile industry, including initiatives like supporting Vinfast and their global positioning system.

The agreement itself is important, but equally significant is the commitment demonstrated by both countries to collaborate and work together.

Given the UK's strategic focus on Viet Nam in the Asia-Pacific and considering trade tensions and climate change challenges, how has the deal aided British businesses in maintaining and expanding partner networks in the region?

Viet Nam is viewed as a potential springboard for UKs adventurous companies to venture into exciting new areas, with the prospect of establishing significant operations in Viet Nam and subsequently expanding throughout the ASEAN region.

The British government, treating HCM City as a hub, is committed to spreading awareness and facilitating business connections throughout the region. While British businesses in Viet Nam may encounter challenges, they're passionate about opportunities in Viet Nam and have believed in the country's rapid development.

We're going for long-term collaboration, which is evident in sectors like banking, education, and pharmaceuticals which have undergone step-by-step, sustained growth.

For example, AstraZeneca's journey from a representative office to a wholly owned company showcases this commitment, as does the significant investment in renewable energy. It's amazing that Viet Nam is on top of the agenda of both local and headquarters leadership in UK companies. Viet Nam is in the top five markets with which Britain wants to develop stronger relationships.

Is there an ongoing commitment and initiative to enhance trade and investment between the UK and Viet Nam, extending beyond the current provisions of UKVFTA?

The JETP (Just Energy Transition Partnership) initiative, alongside the European Union and energy companies in Viet Nam, to support Viet Nams transition to renewable energy, indicates a significant investment. This goes beyond mere financial contributions, emphasising the importance of knowledge transfer, training, and robust frameworks for long-term effectiveness. The JETP project, with active support from the Vietnamese Ambassy in the UK, demonstrates Britain's leading role in key initiatives.

Another pivotal initiative involves supporting Viet Nam's transition to becoming a regional and international financial centre. This extends beyond physical infrastructure to include development of processes, systems, regulations, and frameworks aligned with global norms. The approach emphasises the building of capacity, knowledge and expertise. The goal is not rapid progress, but rather a meticulous building of foundations to ensure sustainability.

Efforts to accelerate this progress include collaboration with British companies in Viet Nam, working closely with the British Consul General in HCM City on a project with TheCityUK. This collaboration focuses on supporting the development of frameworks and is likened to the philosophy of constructing a building  requiring time and effort to build strong foundations before visible progress. The UK Government, through the Consul General and British businesses, is actively engaged in laying these essential, yet not always visible, groundwork for sustained success.  VNS
HA NOI A festival promoting traditional crafts of Ha Nois Phu Xuyen District will take place at Phu Xuyen Stadium from October 26-29.

The event will feature 220 exhibition booths displaying local craft products and specialties, as well as specialties from other nearby localities. There will also be a culinary section introducing the unique dishes of Phu Xuyen District.

The craft village festival will kick off with a craft ancestor worshipping ceremony involving a procession with participants from the five communes - Phu Tuc, Chuyen My, Phu Yen, Phuong Duc and Van Tu.

On this occasion, Phu Yen Leather Craft Village will be granted the recognition of the City People's Committee as a tourist destination and the districts E-commerce platform will be officially launched.

Phu Xuyen artisans will showcase their skills in creating craft products like to he (traditional Vietnamese toy figurines), bamboo, rattan, or mother-of-pearl inlaid items.

Festival-goers will be treated with performances of local intangible cultural heritages like tru or cheo singing of Nam Tien and Tri Trung Communes respectively, invited to join traditional games like tug-of-war or pot-breaking, as well as taken on tours exploring local craft villages.

Another highlight of the much-anticipated event is an auction of miniatures of Ha Nois symbols such as Khue Van Cac (the pavilion of the constellation of literature) or the One-Pillar Pagoda, and the miniature tea cabinet crafted by Phu Xuyen artisans.

The 4th annual festival promoting Phu Xuyen District's traditional crafts will conclude with a ceremony honouring and awarding outstanding artisans having made significant contributions to the development of craft villages in the district.

According to the Chairman of the People's Committee of Phu Xuyen District Le Van Binh, these activities aim to express gratitude to local craft ancestors and artisans; promote the culture, achievements, and potential of the craft; and attract domestic and foreign investors and tourists.

Phu Xuyen District, 40km from Ha Noi's centre, is often called the land of crafts with many of them having a long history such as Chuyen My mother-of-pearl inlaying, ai Nghiep fine art carpentry, and Phu Tuc knitting.

All the 154 villages and residential areas in the district have their own crafts, of which 43 have been recognised by the city and have strong footholds in the hearts of consumers both at home and abroad. VNS
HA NOI  Guest chef Jose Maria Murga Brescia is presenting the best Peruvian dishes during a culinary event dedicated to this South American countrys gastronomy.

Taking place at the Sheraton Hanoi Hotel's Oven D'or restaurant from October 26 to 29, the event has been organised in collaboration with the Embassy of Peru in Viet Nam, aiming to bring diversity in culinary experiences to diners.

Peruvian cuisine is known for its diverse flavours, rich history, and unique fusion of culinary traditions. From the coastal seafood delicacies to the hearty Andean stews, it offers something to satisfy every palate.

Chef Brescia, with almost 20 years of experience and having worked in different countries, is renowned for his skillful blending of regional flavours and Peruvian culinary style.

After successfully introducing Peruvian flavours to local connoisseurs in HCM City last year, chef Brescia is now showcasing his culinary talent in Ha Noi.

With the goal of making a lasting impression on the capitals residents, he said he wants to leave a special mark in their hearts by introducing his authentic dishes from the Andes and the Pacific Coast region.

The five-day event will be filled with vibrant Latin music and refreshing Pisco Sour cocktail  the national cocktail of Peru. The best of southern Peruvian specialties such as refreshing appetizers Solterito Quinoa Salad and Causa salad, alongside other quintessential dishes Ceviche, smoked duck quinoa risotto, and Lomo Saltado  the traditional stir-fried beef with rice.

Diners can also sample unique offerings such as Pulpo al Olivo or smoked swordfish ham  a hearty favourite on Peru's traditional dining table and a must-try when visiting this enchanting country.

The feast also features delicious desserts of Peruvian cuisine, including sweet potato donuts, anise-scented pumpkin Picarones, and Suspiro Limena or 'Sigh of a Lima Lady'  the name was given for its softness and sweetness, similar to the sigh of a woman.

In addition, diners will have the chance to enjoy Peruvian specialty coffee from the coffee-growing regions of Amazonas, Cajamarca, Junin, Pasco, Puno and Ucayali.

The themed buffet celebrating Peruvian gastronomy is available for lunch and dinner. Dial (+84) 243 719 9000 for more details.  VNS




HA NOI  Assistant for the Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Vu highlighted Viet Nam's consistent policy to ensure every individual's right to have Vietnamese nationality, and limit statelessness, to ensure peoples legitimate rights and interests.

He made the remarks at the Southeast Asian Senior Officials Roundtable on Civil Registration, Legal Identity Documentation and the Prevention of Statelessness in Ha Noi on Wednesday.

Nationality is the first basis for a person to enjoy civil rights and perform civic duties. Each country has its own regulations on nationality appropriate to its conditions, circumstances and legal system, and also faces different challenges in the process of resolving nationality issues, he said.

One of the biggest challenges is how to prevent and reduce statelessness, especially for migrants and groups of people who have lived on their territory for decades but still do not have sufficient grounds to be granted citizenship. Without citizenship, they will be the ones left behind, left out of opportunities for education, legitimate employment and personal development when society is changing every day, every hour, he said.

He said the Vietnamese law on nationality has specifically stipulated conditions for granting citizenship, including for stateless people.

The Vietnamese law on civil status also stipulates birth registration for children whose parents are foreigners or stateless people, he added.

Viet Nam has a relatively favourable legal framework to resolve nationality for a large number of stateless people on Vietnamese territory. Along with efforts to improve domestic laws, Viet Nam has also cooperated closely with neighbouring countries to resolve issues related to stateless people in the country.

In the plan to implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) issued on March 20, 2020, the Prime Minister asked for a series of solutions to prevent statelessness. One of those solutions is to promote civil status registration for migrants at all stages of migration and issue nationality documents to qualified migrants, aiming to ensure that all migrants have proof of legal identity and adequate documentation as stated in the GCM Agreement's Objective 4.

Indrika Ratwatte, director of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Asia-Pacific Regional Office, affirmed that most of Southeast Asia has made significant progress in addressing statelessness. One of the examples is that since 2020, about 9,000 people have been granted naturalisation or confirmed to have Vietnamese nationality.

The plan to implement the GCM Agreement draws a clear roadmap towards resolving the statelessness situation in Viet Nam, he said.  VNS
HA NOI  The United Kingdom remains committed to strengthening collaboration with Viet Nam and ASEAN partners to help address the tensions in the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea), UK Minister for Indo-Pacific Anne-Marie Trevelyan said on Thursday.

Addressing the 15th East Sea Conference hosted by the Diplomatic Academy of Viet Nam in HCM City under the theme of "Luminate the Grey, Light up the Green", she reiterated the UK's support for the Southeast Asia region, an area of geopolitical importance, and also for Viet Nam, with which the UK is celebrating 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

"We are a close partner with Viet Nam on maritime security, and we remain committed to strengthening that long standing collaboration," she said.

Nearly 60 per cent of global maritime trade passes through the South China Sea, the UK minister underscored, which makes it "vital" that all parties "enjoy the same freedoms to navigate and exercise" in this important waterway.

She pointed out the huge consequences that came about when supply chains are disrupted by conflict, saying that rising energy and food prices are harming the world's most vulnerable people, and the UK is "committed to avoiding any such outcome in this region."

"We seek to preserve a free and open Indo Pacific. We want to deepen relationships with our partners, support sustainable development, and tackle the shared challenges that we face."

Specifically, in the case of the East Sea, it means supporting stability and working together on climate change, establishing and maintaining open lines of communication because this is the most effective way of managing tensions. Failing to do so will cause risks escalation.

"As the UK deepens its long term partnership with Viet Nam and others in the Indo Pacific, we are committed to helping you to de-escalate tensions and to maintain that all-important stability," Trevelyan said, highlighting the UK's "unwavering commitment" to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982).

She said the UK "takes no sides" in the sovereignty disputes in the East Sea, but "opposes any activity that undermines or threatens uncross his authority, including attempts to legitimise incompatible maritime claims."

"The UK considers UNCLOS as the arbiter and the place with which we would like to see every country bring forward disputes," she noted, adding the UK will respect UNCLOS decisions.

The UK minister, on the occasion, called out the recent instances of "unsafe conduct" against Vietnamese and Filipino vessels, which has demonstrated the serious risks posed to regional peace and stability.

"We will support our partners to shine a light on this so-called grey-zone activity that creates tensions and risks escalation," she said, recalling the 2016 South China Sea arbitral award in the Philippines vs China case is a significant milestone in resolving disputes peacefully.

She extolled the central role ASEAN has played in maintaining regional stability and prosperity, and said the UK is looking forward to working with ASEAN on advancing the Indo-Pacific Outlook, with maritime cooperation a key pillar.

The UK official also said there is a strong need for a Code of Conduct in the East Sea that is consistent with UNCLOS and reflects the interests and guarantees the rights and freedoms of all parties, including third-party countries.

The UK wants to see a sea of conflict become a sea of cooperation, she said, urging for urgent cooperation on environmental degradation, with pressures on fish stock, the destruction of the marine environments and rising sea levels posing an "existential threat to the millions of people who rely on the East Sea for their livelihoods."

Minister Trevelyan also mentioned a ream of projects that the UK has been launching to help protect the sea for future generations, including Just Energy Transition Partnerships signed with Viet Nam and Indonesia to encourage the early retirement of high emitting coal fired power stations, investment in renewable energy; the Blue Planet fund designed to help vulnerable coastal communities in the region and to tackle plastic pollution; funding of two and a half million pounds on illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, among others.  VNS
HA NOI  The Vietnamese Government always treasures and wishes to strengthen its relations with Lithuania, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh told visiting Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania Gabrielius Landsbergis in Ha Noi on Wednesday.

Chinh highlighted the first foreign minister-level visit between the two countries since they established diplomatic ties in 1992, and expressed his belief that it will be a milestone contributing to promoting the bilateral relations in various fields.

Landsbergis noted his impressions on socio-economic achievements Viet Nam has recorded recently, and affirmed that Lithuania wishes to boost cooperation with Viet Nam  its priority partner in Southeast Asia.

Chinh suggested the two sides enhance all-level delegation exchanges to raise political trust and mutual understanding and create a foundation to reinforce and expand bilateral cooperation in all fields. In that spirit, he asked Landsbergis to convey invitations from high-ranking Vietnamese leaders to the President and the PM of Lithuania to visit Viet Nam.

The leader said he hopes that the two sides will encourage and support their businesses to connect and explore respective markets as well as cooperation opportunities, suggesting Lithuania create favourable conditions for Vietnamese agricultural, forestry and fishery products, especially rice and seasonal fruits, to make deeper inroads into the Lithuanian market.

On this occasion, Chinh thanked Lithuania for supporting the signing of the Viet Nam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and being one of the first EU member states to ratify the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). He also called on Lithuania to encourage other EU member countries to soon approve the EVIPA, and help Viet Nam have the European Commission (EC)s yellow card warning on its seafood lifted.

Host and guest compared notes on some measures to foster cooperation in information technology, energy, digital transformation, climate change response, education-training, and agriculture, along with the early negotiations and signing of some cooperation agreements in potential areas in the time ahead.

Landsbergis suggested Viet Nam consider and facilitate the imports of Lithuanian agricultural products.

The two sides agreed on the need to beef up collaboration at multilateral forums and international organisations, and the importance of resolving disputes by peaceful measures in line with international law, especially the United Nations Charter.  VNS
A resolution on the designation of Nov. 22 as "Kimchi Day," named after a Korean traditional side dish, will be brought to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives for its adoption in December, a Korean American heritage museum said Wednesday.

The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability plans to send H. Res. 280 on the popular fermented dish to the floor for its adoption without a vote on Dec. 6, according to the Museum of Korean American Heritage.

The move comes as Korea and the United States mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of their bilateral alliance this year, amid joint efforts to broaden the scope of their partnership beyond its traditional security focus.

Rep. Young Kim (R-CA) has submitted the resolution with backing from more than a dozen other lawmakers, noting that this year marks the 120th anniversary of the first Korean immigrants to arrive in the U.S. and the 70th anniversary of the bilateral alliance.

A resolution on the designation was first submitted last year, but it failed to get through the House.

An official at the museum said Democratic and Republican leaders coordinated a decision to adopt the resolution without a vote in a show of their appreciation to the Korean American community.

The resolution notes that UNESCO recognized the Korean traditional process of preparing kimchi, "kimjang," on its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

It also states that kimchi has been widely acknowledged as a probiotic food item with well-established positive health benefits, and that there has been a growing interest in and popularity of kimchi as a dish in the U.S. (Yonhap)
HA NOI  President Vo Van Thuong has signed a decision ratifying the Agreement on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between Viet Nam and Argentina, as recently proposed by the Government.

Viet Nam and Argentina established diplomatic ties on October 25, 1973 and upgraded bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Partnership in 2010. Their relations have developed fruitfully and recorded important achievements across a variety of fields over the five decades.

The agreement is expected to contribute to further promoting comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, bringing positive impacts in many areas.

The ratification of the agreement helps agencies monitor cross-border and transnational crimes.

This is an important legal basis for law enforcement agencies to coordinate in investigating, collecting evidence, and conducting procedural proceedings to thoroughly resolve criminal cases in both countries.

It also helps to prevent and combat crimes and better protects the legitimate rights and interests of citizens from both countries.  VNS
HA NOI  Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son and his Thai counterpart, Deputy Prime Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, agreed to strive to bring bilateral trade turnover to soon reach the target of US$25 billion during their talks in Ha Noi on Thursday.

The target can be achieved through reducing trade barriers and further opening up for goods exchange, they said.

The two ministers also pledged to promote economic, infrastructure, science and technology connections, and contribute to ensuring the supply chain through promoting the implementation of the 'Three Connects' strategy.

They vowed to strengthen cooperation in new fields such as digital economy, e-commerce and green energy.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree emphasised that this is his first official foreign visit in his new position, and affirmed that Viet Nam is a close friend and one of Thailand's most important partners in the region.

He expressed the countrys desire to further strengthen the good relationship between the two ministries of foreign affairs.

The two ministers expressed their joy to witness cooperation in all fields developing deeply and substantially on the basis of mutual respect, trust and benefits.

They agreed to move forward to bring the Viet Nam - Thailand Strategic Partnership to a new level.

The two sides agreed to coordinate and arrange a suitable time for the Thai Prime Minister's official visit to Viet Nam, and co-chair the 4th joint Cabinet meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

The two ministers show their support for the development of road and waterway transport routes, as well as increasing the number of flights connecting the two countries.

They also agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in agriculture, labour, maritime, defence and security.

They reaffirmed the commitment not to allow any individual or organisation to use the territory of one country to oppose another country.

Regarding regional and international cooperation, the two sides affirmed their close coordination at multilateral and regional mechanisms, coordination with other ASEAN countries to strengthen ASEAN solidarity, unity and the central role of the regional bloc, strengthening cooperation in developing the Mekong sub-region, and managing and using the Mekong River water resources sustainably.

They affirmed the importance of preserving peace, stability, safety, and maritime and aviation security in the East Sea on the basis of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.  VNS
HA NOI  Vietnamese citizens in Israel are advised to be prepared for the scenario of evacuation of themselves and their assets to a third country or returning to Viet Nam, amid worsening conflict in the Middle East region.

This is part of the advisory for Vietnamese nationals in Israel by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Citizens are asked to avoid travelling to Israel unless necessary, spokesperson for the foreign ministry Pham Thu Hang said on Thursday during the press briefing in Ha Noi.

"They should also regularly follow the news provided by local authorities and heed the warnings from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including the Consular Department and the Vietnamese embassy in Israel to have timely responses," Hang noted.

So far, Vietnamese citizens currently residing in Israel remain safe, she stated.

In recent days, the situation is unfolding in a complicated manner, and on October 24, 2023, the National Steering Committee for Citizen Protection and the foreign ministry convened a meeting and discussed citizen protection efforts given the tensions in the region, Hang told the press.

According to the spokesperson, since the beginning of the conflict, the foreign ministry has instructed the Vietnamese representative mission in Israel and in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, which is currently accredited to the state of Palestine, to closely follow up on the situation of areas of conflict to urgently review information on Vietnamese citizens living in the affected areas, and to work closely with local authorities and relevant domestic agencies to implement measures to protect and ensure the safety of Vietnamese citizens in the affected areas should they need assistance.

"Acting on the directions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Vietnamese embassy in Israel has continued to maintain regular contacts with the Vietnamese community living in the areas of conflict," Hang said, adding that the embassy has received updates on their situation and have requested that the local authorities ensure safety for them and their families.

At the same time, the embassy stands ready to provide protection measures in accordance with the citizens' wishes and the up-to-date situation of the conflict.

Citizens in conflict-affected areas are asked to register their personal information on the form available at http://bit.ly/dangkycongdanVNtaiIsrael and state whether they want to evacuate.

Evacuation fees are borne by the citizens, including border and transportation, as well as flight tickets out of Israel or back to Viet Nam.

Vietnamese citizens in need of assistance can contact the Vietnamese Embassy in Israel at the following phone numbers: +972-50-818-6116, +972-52-727-4248, +972-50-994-0889, or the Citizen Protection Hotline of the Consular Department at +84 981 84 84 84.

The latest Israel-Hamas conflict, breaking out on October 7, 2023, has killed more than 6,400 people, and injured 17,000, according to Gaza health authorities, as well as over 1,400 people in Israel according to the Israeli Government.  VNS
HA NOI  President of Mongolia Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh hosted a reception in Ulaanbaatar on Thursday for Vietnamese Minister of National Defence Gen. Phan Van Giang and a high-ranking delegation of Viet Nam who have been on an official visit to the country.

Khurelsukh stressed that Viet Nam has a special position in Mongolias foreign policy and wished that in the near future, bilateral ties would reach a new height for the benefit of the people of both countries and contributing to the maintenance of peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.

Giang affirmed that Viet Nam always highly evaluates its traditional friendship with Mongolia and believed that the upcoming Viet Nam visit in early November by the Mongolian President will be a success, especially at a time when the two countries will celebrate the 70th founding anniversary of diplomatic ties next year.

He also informed the host about the outcomes of his talks with Mongolian Minister of Defence Gursediin Saikhanbayar and cooperation between the two armies over the past years.

For his part, the President committed all possible support to deepen collaboration between the two defence ministries in a way that matches bilateral cooperation framework.

At the talks between the two defence ministers in the morning of the same day, both sides agreed to continue their efforts to effectively promote practical cooperation in various fields, such as facilitating the exchange of delegations at all levels, defence industry, training, military medicine, culture, arts, military sports, and sharing experience in United Nations peacekeeping operations.

Saikhanbayar stressed that Mongolia always treasures the development of its relationship with Viet Nam and considers Viet Nam a bridge to foster its relations with countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and a key partner of Mongolia in the region.

Meanwhile, Giang affirmed that Viet Nam consistently pursues a national defence policy of "four nos" and foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification of international relations and giving the highest priority to developing friendship and cooperation ties with traditional friend nations, including Mongolia.

On global and regional issues of shared concern, the host and guest underscored the importance of maintaining an environment of peace, stability, cooperation and development in the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea), which is significant to not only coastal countries but also landlocked nations.

Following the talks, the two ministers witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement on the exchange of delegations between the two defence ministries.

On October 26 afternoon, Giang and his entourage visited the National Defence University in Ulaanbaatar. Founded in 1921, it is the country's premier and oldest military educational institution.  VNS
Khanh Duong

HA NOI  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and adverse impacts of the global economy, Nitori Furniture Vietnam, a Japanese-invested business operating in Quang Minh Industrial Park, Ha Noi, had to reduce its workforce by 20 per cent from more than 6,000 to 4,800. But the company has never delayed paying monthly social and health insurance premiums for its labourers.

Ha Thao Phuong, a company worker, said: I have health insurance expenses covered and enjoy maternity benefits thanks to quick procedures supported by the human resources department.

Japan has a concept called lifetime employment which means recruiting workers until they retire. Social, health and unemployment insurance play an extremely important role in retaining labourers for a long time.

Kushida Akihiro, deputy general director of Nitori Furniture, said his company started operation in 2003. His enterprise always strictly complies with Viet Nam's legal regulations.

The full participation in social insurance, health insurance and unemployment insurance aims to ensure workers benefits and create conditions for them to stay over the long term. Thats also an important requirement we have set, he told Viet Nam News.

We have a professional human resources department that has coordinated closely with the Ha Noi Social Security Office in paying premiums and providing benefits for employees, he said.

The company always timely and fully updates the social insurance policies from local authorities in Viet Nam, legal consulting units and the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) business association, he said.

The Vietnam Social Security (VSS) has supported enterprises in the settlement of social insurance regimes, especially paying sickness and maternity benefits on time. There were a few cases of money transfer delay compared to the expected results. When we gave feedback, the agency promptly resolved it, he said.

During a recent dialogue between VSS and Japanese-invested firms in Viet Nam on the implementation of social and health insurance policies, VSS General Director Nguyen The Manh said the vast majority of Japanese businesses comply with Viet Nam's legal policies, including those on social and health insurance.

In the difficult context of the pandemic and the post-COVID-19 period, FDI enterprises, including Japanese firms, have applied many solutions to maintain production stability and retain workers, making an important contribution to Viet Nam's socio-economic recovery and development, he said.

The VSS has so far served 2,112 Japanese businesses in Viet Nam, with 547,100 employees participating in social insurance, including more than 545,000 Vietnamese employees and 1,600 foreign ones.

In the first nine months of this year, social insurance revenue from Japanese-invested enterprises accounted for over 13 per cent of the total revenue from foreign invested enterprises operating in Viet Nam.

In order to create favourable conditions for the Japanese business community investing and doing business in Viet Nam, as well as the Vietnamese community living and working in Japan, the two countries are conducting exchange procedures, updating information and roadmaps to prepare for the negotiation of the bilateral agreement on social insurance, which will serve as a new milestone in the two countries relations, Manh said.

Japanese Ambassador to Viet Nam Yamada Takio said in 2023, the Japanese Business Association in Viet Nam has about 2,000 member companies. This is the largest overseas Japanese Business Association in ASEAN and the second largest in the world. One of the attractions for Japanese businesses is Viet Nams abundant labour source.

Protecting labourers benefits is an important factor for Viet Nam to attract foreign investment, he said.

Along with the direct investment increase from Japan into Viet Nam, Japanese companies are required to understand and well implement Viet Nam's social insurance regulations and policies to ensure labourers legitimate rights and benefits. The Vietnamese Government is amending the Law on Social Insurance, which will better protect labourers rights and affect investment trends of Japanese firms in Viet Nam, the ambassador noted.

He hoped the Vietnamese Government would listen to the feedback of Japanese enterprises in Viet Nam on the law amendments to make the law truly reflect the wills of Japanese employees and employers.

He believed that social and health insurance policies with the aim of better protecting the rights of labourers would promote economic cooperation between the two countries.

To help Japanese people in Viet Nam better access social and health insurance policies and facilitate them in procedures, on Tuesday, the VSS launched the Japanese version of the social insurance mobile app VssID.

No change in insurance benefits

Tran Hai Nam, deputy head of Social Insurance Department, Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, said there is absolutely no change in social insurance benefits for foreign workers in Viet Nam.

Foreign workers participating in Viet Nams social insurance scheme will enjoy full benefits, the same as those for Vietnamese citizens.

We even have more open regulations for foreign workers. For example, foreign workers who are willing to have labour contracts terminated and enjoy lump-sum payment can submit their application. We will handle the application within five days of receiving the document, shorter than the regulation for the Vietnamese, so that they will soon receive the payment before returning to their country, he said.

Vu uc Thuat, deputy director of Ha Noi Social Security Office, said FDI firms have given mostly positive feedback to the office. Thanks to the two-way feedback, the two sides can perform their tasks better.

Ha Noi has nearly 800 FDI firms, about 500 of which have foreign labourers. The foreign labourers who are qualified for social insurance scheme are all ready to join, he told Viet Nam News.

He said one obstacle for foreign labourers in accessing health insurance-covered medical services is that not all facilities have translators. The office is working to address this difficulty so that foreigners having health insurance cards in Viet Nam can enjoy the best services.  VNS
BRUSSELS  Viet Nam has set a great example of cooperation with the European Union (EU), President of the European Commission (EC) Ursula von der Leyen told Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha in Brussels on Wednesday.

At the meeting, which took place on the sidelines of the Global Gateway Forum organised by the EU, Leyen affirmed that Viet Nam is an important partner in implementing cooperation strategies and initiatives in the region.

For his part, Ha affirmed that Viet Nam values the partnership and comprehensive cooperation with the EU, hailing its new strategies and initiatives on strengthening cooperation with the Asia-Pacific.

He expressed his hope that the EU and its member countries will further support Viet Nam in finance, technology and personnel training to serve climate change response and energy transition.

Ha also called on the countries to soon ratify the EU- Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), and fully implement the EU- Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to promote trade and investment ties between the two sides.

The official suggested the EC consider lifting its yellow card warning on Vietnamese seafood exports to spur the countrys recovery and sustainable development.

Leyen commended Viet Nams close cooperation in climate change response, especially in the implementation of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP), and thanked the country for its efforts in materialising EC recommendations against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, saying she hopes that the issue will be resolved in the time ahead.

Regarding the implementation of the Global Gateway Strategy, the EC President pledged to further prioritise cooperation with Viet Nam in renewable energy, digital transformation and green growth.

They shared the view that the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Vietnamese Ministry of Finance and the European Investment Bank (EIB) will create a foundation and favourable conditions for the two sides to step up collaboration in coping with global issues.

Both held that private enterprises and capital play a crucial role in realising the JETP.

Earlier, Ha and EIB President Werner Hoyer witnessed the signing of the MoU on financial support worth 500 million EUR (US$527.77 million) which aims to contribute to the rollout of the JETP.

The Global Gateway Forum is bringing together representatives of governments from the EU and around the world with the private sector, civil society, leading thinkers, financing institutions and international organisations in a two-day, invitation-only event in Brussels on October 25-26.

Addressing a session green energy transition and green hydrogen, Ha stressed that Viet Nam is ready to work together with other countries for sustainable development.

He appealed to developed countries and the private sector to increase the supply of technology and green finance, and support in personnel training and management experience so that the whole world can achieve the same goal of net emissions by 2050.  VNS
HA NOI  The second cohort of US Peace Corps volunteers has arrived in Ha Noi, marking their commitment to assist the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) with national English language education priorities.

This move underscores the strong bilateral partnership between the United States and Viet Nam in education and training, as established by the US-Viet Nam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The Peace Corps volunteers are set to become the first group to serve at high schools across HCM City starting in January 2024. Their mission is to work closely with local educators, co-teaching English classes, and aiding Vietnamese students in enhancing their English language skills, thus improving their access to educational and employment opportunities.

Peace Corps Vietnam aligns completely with MOET's objectives and operates under the Implementing Agreement, which was signed in 2020, involving both the US and Vietnamese governments, with the Peace Corps and MOET as implementing entities.

Mikel Herrington, the Peace Corps Vietnam Country Director, said the programme's geographical expansion to HCM City corresponds with the international agreement established by the two countries. This expansion signifies the ongoing goodwill as the Peace Corps cultivates relationships and trust with its partners.

He also pointed out that, in the course of their service and even afterward, the volunteers would express their gratitude to the Vietnamese people when talking to their friends and family back home.

Herrington highlighted that Peace Corps volunteers are actively contributing to the development of people-to-people connections and the attainment of long-term prosperity goals emphasised in the recently announced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.

For the next 10 weeks, the volunteers will participate in extensive training to strengthen the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to the local context and work effectively in Vietnams educational system. They will attend Vietnamese language classes, sessions on Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), gain familiarity with the school context, and practice co-teaching models with local teachers.

Only volunteers who successfully complete the training programme will be sworn in on December 28 and officially start their service afterwards.

Currently, Peace Corps has nine volunteers serving in Ha Noi.

Peace Corps is an independent agency under the Executive Branch of the US Government which operates a volunteer programme that aims to provide host governments with assistance in their development priorities.

Since the Peace Corps was first established in 1961, over 240,000 Americans have served as volunteers in more than 142 countries. Viet Nam is the 143rd country to invite and partner with the Peace Corps.  VNS
The Peace Corps volunteers are set to become the first group to serve at high schools across HCM City starting in January 2024. Their mission is to work closely with local educators, co-teaching English classes, and aiding Vietnamese students in enhancing their English language skills, thus improving their access to educational and employment opportunities.
By Tran Khanh An

Cuc Phuong National Park in northern Viet Nam has been honoured as Asias Leading National Park for the fifth consecutive year.

The achievement should not be taken for granted. Six decades since its establishment, the Cuc Phuong National Park authorities have persistently upheld three central pillars: forest protection associated with biodiversity conservation, scientific research and international cooperation on conservation, and environmental education on ecotourism.

Even though there are still difficulties, flourishing wildlife shows the success of the park, and the lessons to be gained from it.

Shields of the forest

Cuc Phuong National Park, established in 1962, spans over 220 square kilometres in three provinces of Ninh Binh, Hoa Binh and Thanh Hoa, and is known for its exceptional biodiversity and stunning landscapes. It is home to numerous rare and endangered species, making it a valuable ecological treasure in Asia.

For forest protection and conservation of rare flora and fauna species, patrolling and control work has been identified as a top mission for rangers at Cuc Phuong.

Currently, the park's rangers only have 13 stations, with a total of 56 staff members  which means each ranger has to take charge of nearly 4sq.km or 400 hectares of forest.

However, in recent years, the national park has reduced the rangers' hardship and successfully prevented significant cases of illegal hunting and deforestation by implementing forest preservation strategies.

Cuc Phuong has adopted the most stringent measures to strengthen the protection of the authenticity and integrity of the ecosystem and promote the continuous improvement of ecological functions.

SMART, a high-tech monitoring and management system, has been used to monitor the development and the current status of forest plant and animal resources along patrol routes at the park.

The system helps improve efficiency by monitoring and assessing conservation efforts more frequently, reducing costs and sharing the data on a larger scale.

The park authorities also focus on educating local residents about the serious harm of deforestation and illegal hunting. The best approach to preserve the forest and promote local sustainable development is to secure alternative income for the local community.

We support local people to increase their income through afforestation, beekeeping, and the development of community-based eco-tourism, said Pham Phu Cuong, a forest ranger at the park.

Patrolling the forest day and night and facing dangers, forest rangers face difficulties and low pay. Their living conditions are poor, lacking electricity, clean water and the internet; and they have little time with their families.

I am still here because of my love for the forest. Living within the forest and feeling its fullness, I cannot leave the forest, Phu Cuong said.

Worldwide collaboration

The Centre for Rescue, Conservation and Development of Creatures (CRCDC) is located in the park, dedicated to caring for wild animals rescued from illegal captivity and trafficking in the north.

Cuc Phuong Park is carrying out three conservation programmes: the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre (ERPC), the conservation programme for small carnivores and pangolins, and the conservation programme for turtles and other wild animals, with a total number of 2,700 individual creatures of 64 species.

Most of the wild animals received by the Cuc Phuong rescue centre are victims of illegal hunting, trafficking and forced captivity. When rescued and transported here, they were all in a weak, diseased state or had forgotten their wild instincts and were infected with human-trained behaviours.

"To help them recover their health and wild instincts, the centre applies scientific rescue principles for separate isolation, treatment and monitoring," said Le Phuong Trieu, director of the CRCDC.

After that, rescued animals are released in semi-natural areas for wild instinct training before being released into their natural habitat.

However, there are many individuals here who, after the centre's rescue and care efforts, do not have the opportunity to return to their natural habitat and stay at the centre.

"We call them the ambassadors of education to send to visitors the most intuitive and emotional example of the terrible harm of illegally hunting, trading, and confining wild animals, Trieu said.

The park also serves as a hub for research and education in biodiversity and conservation, collaborating with various national and international institutions to conduct scientific studies and educational programmes.

Every year, the park receives thousands of visitors from home and abroad, and researchers come to study or work as volunteers here, making a profound impact on biodiversity conservation.

The EPRC, established in 1993 in cooperation between Cuc Phuong National Park and the Frankfurt Zoological Society, is the first non-profit project in the Indochina peninsula dedicated to endangered primate rescue.

Since its founding, the centre has successfully bred 353 individuals of 10 species of rare primates, saving and caring for about 188 individuals of the 14 species of endangered primates found in Viet Nam.

Out of those 14 species, six are exclusively rescue and caring efforts in Viet Nam. We are proud that EPRC is a world-renowned model in primate rescue and conservation, Trieu said.

Education via eco-tourism

Cuc Phuong National Park's outstanding approach to achieving its objectives is to activate educational programmes through eco-tourism initiatives. The entire national park can be seen as a living museum where tourists can travel and discover biodiversity.

Due to its diverse ecosystems as well as its historical and cultural significance, the park has drawn tourists from home and abroad to join its eco-activities. The park provides not only adventure travel but also regular holidays, suitable for all visitor interests.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a range of ecotourism activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, jungle camping or just enjoying nature in eco-lodges, said Pham Kien Cuong, director of the Centre for Environmental Education and Services.

Visitors' favourite is an eco-tour themed "Ve Nha" (Homecoming), which provides chances for tourists to directly release wild animals after being rescued back into the forest. Launched in 2021, Homecoming has attracted numerous registers from all over and effectively spread the message of wildlife protection.

Cuc Phuong's most outstanding programme is community-based eco-tourism initiatives, supporting alternative livelihoods and the wellbeing of local ethnic people while promoting sustainable tourism.

Community-based eco-tourism programmes benefit both travellers and local communities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional culture of the Muong, while local residents make their lives easier by utilising the resources of their homeland and culture.

By involving local communities in conservation efforts, we empower local ethnic people towards a better long-lasting future with earning opportunities and ultimately cultural pride, Kien Cuong said.

They realised the forest's potential from an entirely different perspective and stopped deforestation and illegal animal hunting.

Every eco-tourism activity is well-designed by the national parks administrative officers and tourism partners to raise awareness and spread the message of protecting the forest and saving wildlife.

Phu Cuong told Viet Nam News that there is even a purpose behind the way they name each student team on a camping tour for children, that is after an endangered species listed in the Viet Nam Red Data Book.

Children are accustomed to the media's preferred animals more than the endangered species in Viet Nam. Through eco-tourism, we want to ensure that the youngsters return home aware which exclusive animals in Viet Nam need to be protected, Phu Cuong said.

Leave nothing but footprints. Take nothing but photographs. Kill nothing but your time. Help protect Cuc Phuong!" are simple messages written on a board at the roadside when entering the core forest area, summarising what Cuc Phuong has aimed to inspire for the past 61 years and beyond. VNS
Considered a locality with may chances for development, Quang Ngai has the opportunity to become a priority choice for international partners shortly.

Opportunities for development

Quang Ngai has an important strategic position in the key economic region of the Central region. This area still has a lot of opportunity for development and is among the top 20 provinces and cities in the nation for economic development scale.

That is the assessment of Ms Nguyen Minh Hang, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, at the Quang Ngai Introduction Conference organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordination with the People's Committee of Quang Ngai Province on October 25 in Hanoi.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Minh Hang assessed that Quang Ngai still has much room for development. (Photo: N. Le)

The Deputy Minister said that in the coming time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to support and accompany localities, including Quang Ngai, to deploy economic diplomacy work to promote connection with foreign partners and open expanding import and export markets, attracting FDI and ODA to serve the province's development drivers such as tourism, marine economy, logistics, trade, industry...

Also read: Majestic scenery in Quang Ngai Province

Mr Dang Van Minh, Chairman of the People's Committee of Quang Ngai province, said that according to the Master Plan for the socio-economic development of the province to 2030, with a vision for 2050, Quang Ngai will develop based on the harmony between the three pillars "economy - society - environment".

Accordingly, the goal is that by 2030, Quang Ngai will become a well-developed province of the country, with sustainable and diverse development with green industries and high-tech industries concentrated in industrial parks and clusters, logistics, combining potentials and strengths in tourism development, high-quality agriculture and marine economic development.

Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, Mr. Dang Van Minh, introduced Quang Ngai at the conference. (Photo: N. Le)

Besides, 6 dynamic economic space regions were formed, especially building the National Energy and Petrochemical Refining Center in Dung Quat Economic Zone and developing Ly Son to become a national island tourism centre.

To attract resources for development investment, Quang Ngai has implemented many solutions to improve the business investment environment and promote administrative reform strongly.

Also read: Dung Quat refinery operates at 110% capacity during Tet

Meanwhile, Mr Vo Phien, Vice Chairman of Quang Ngai Provincial People's Committee, said that Quang Ngai calls for cooperation and attracts investment from the perspective of "Your success is the province's success. Enterprises are the objects of service of state agencies. The provincial government and leaders wish to accompany you to create new success and prosperity for localities, communities and businesses."

Many foreign businesses want to invest

Mr. Nakajima Takeo, Chief Representative of the Japan Trade Promotion Agency (Jetro), said that the number of investment projects in Vietnam increased by 55% compared to last year. There are many Japanese and Chinese enterprises gradually shifting production to Vietnam.

He assessed that Vietnam has great potential, leading in the region in attracting investors to expand business. Next to China and the United States, Vietnam has been ranked second on the favourite investment list of Japanese businesses.

"We want Vietnam to strengthen its electricity development further while still achieving its goal of reducing CO2 emissions. Foreign-invested enterprises hope to contribute to the sustainable economic development of the Vietnamese people," said Mr. Nakajima Takeo.

As a very important source of foreign direct investment in Vietnam, Mr. Michael Chiu, Chairman of the Hong Kong (Chinese) Business Association in Vietnam, informed that Hong Kong businesses participate in investment activities in many industries. Among them, industries attracting significant FDI from Hong Kong include manufacturing, real estate, finance, services and technology.

Memorandum of Understanding signing ceremony between the Department of Planning and Investment of Quang Ngai province and the Hong Kong Business Association in Vietnam on October 25. (Photo: N. Le)

"Hong Kong investors are attracted to Vietnam's favourable business environment, critical position, and young and dynamic workforce. In particular, Quang Ngai is rich in natural resources such as minerals, oil and gas, seafood,... bringing economic growth opportunities.

According to the Ministry of Planning and Investment, Hong Kong is in Vietnam's top 5 FDI investors, with a total investment capital of 2.2 billion USD in 2022. The two sides have many joint venture projects and investment projects. These projects contribute to the economic growth of both Hong Kong and Vietnam, create job opportunities, and promote trade between the two sides. We chose to invest in Quang Ngai because of its attractive investment policy and favourable human resources," said Mr Michael Chiu.

He assessed that Quang Ngai has untapped potential for developing the hotel tourism industry. With the local investment environment increasingly favourable, Mr Michael Chiu said Hong Kong wants to stand alongside other FDI investors such as Singapore, Japan, and Korea...

Read more: EU foreign direct investment in Vietnam will increase by the end of 2023

Within the framework of the conference, a memorandum of cooperation signing ceremony took place between the Department of Planning and Investment of Quang Ngai province and the Hong Kong Business Association in Vietnam. Along with that was the signing ceremony of a memorandum of cooperation between the Management Board of Dung Quat Economic Zone and Quang Ngai industrial zones and the Investment Consulting and Information Center of the Association of Foreign Investment Enterprises.
Israeli troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield" ahead of a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating air raids.

The raid came after the U.N. warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamas' bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the war earlier this month.

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to U.N. figures.

On Wednesday, the wife, son and daughter of Wael Dahdouh, a veteran Al-Jazeera correspondent in Gaza, were killed in an Israeli strike. The Qatar-based satellite channel broadcast footage of his grief upon entering a hospital and peering over the body of his dead son.

The Israeli military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely-populated Gaza. Palestinian militants have fired rocket barrages into Israel since the war began.

During the overnight raid, the military said soldiers struck fighters, militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions. There were no immediate reports of casualties on either aide.

Meanwhile, an airstrike hit a residential building in the southern town of Khan Younis early Thursday. Ambulances streamed into the nearby Nasser Hospital, but there was no official word on casualties. Family members said the building had housed 75 people, including 25 displaced relatives.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gazas population has also been running out of food, water and medicine. About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into U.N. shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza , despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south, saying those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel let more than 60 trucks with aid enter from Egypt, which aid workers say is insufficient and only a tiny fraction of what was being brought in before the war. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

An official with the International Committee of the Red Cross said it hopes to bring in nearly a half dozen trucks filled with vital medical supplies.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean if you will, given the severity of the consequences of the violence in the last two and a half weeks, said William Schomburg, head of the sub-delegation in Gaza.

Today, we are looking at eight to ten trucks coming in. We have more that are lined up, he said. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators , life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said.

At Gaza Citys al-Shifa Hospital, the lack of medicine and clean water have led to alarming infection rates, the group Doctors Without Borders said. Amputations are often required to prevent infection from spreading in the wounded, it said.

One surgeon with the group described amputating half the foot of a 9-year-old boy with only slight sedation on a hallway floor as his mother and sister watched.

The conflict has also threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said Wednesday it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Strikes in Syria also hit the airports of Aleppo and Damascus, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Hamas' surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened," he said. "This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me. (AP)








Data and AI company Vantix, owned by Vingroup, announced its dissolution in early October, ending its journey after more than three years. According to Vingroup, the dissolution is due to the restructuring of more than 100 subsidiaries in the groups ecosystem.

AI application rise to come with a cost, illustration photo/ Source: freepik.com

One of Vantixs most notable achievements was the creation of vBand, a wearable device similar to a smartwatch that helped managers divide workloads evenly among team members. The product was applied by the Vinpearl Condotel Danang hotel among housekeeping staff, helping them increase labour productivity by 25 per cent and reduce cleaning time by 15 per cent, the hotel said.

The decline of AI projects like Vantix is not uncommon in Vietnam. Some businesses have been eager to enter the field, but quickly had to halt projects, including Skapa.ai.

Skapa.ai was the AI social tech company that launched social apps Fika in Vietnam last year and offered a second social network project called Leka earlier this year. However, the business could not raise enough capital and was forced to close the Fika project to focus on Leka.

According to the governments AI Readiness Index for 2022 published by Oxford Insights in January, Vietnam ranks 55th out of 181 countries globally and ranks sixth out of 10 ASEAN member countries, demonstrated through the exploitation of AI applications to operate and provide services. Compared to the previous years results, Vietnams ranking has increased by seven places.

The country is estimated to boast more than 70,000 digital businesses, according to data from the Ministry of Information and Communications.

In 2021, Vietnam issued a national strategy for research, development, and application of AI towards 2030, bringing Vietnam into the top five of the ASEAN region and the group of 60 leading countries in the world in this area.

Tran Minh Vu, head of VNPTs AI Business Department, said that Vietnam is ready for AI development. The market in Vietnam is a potential playground and market opportunities are still open to all players, he said.

However, Vu admitted that AI has not yet been thoroughly applied in this country. The implementation of technology solutions faces difficulties in changing the cognitive culture of users and organisations. Only about 16 per cent of Vietnamese businesses apply AI, lower than the rate of 33 per cent in Asia and 36-37 per cent globally, Vu said.

FPT, the largest IT service provider in Vietnam, currently owns the FPT.AI platform, including more than 20 advanced AI services deployed in 15 countries with 11 million users and 200 million communicators.

Director of AI of FPT Software Nguyen Xuan Phong said that AI would continue to be FPTs key technology over the next three years, and this business is expected to invest at least $12.7 million to continue developing the AI ecosystem.

AI can help businesses cut about 20 per cent of operating and business costs. In the programming industry, AI can create lines of code with fewer bugs and more usefulness, helping to save time and labour, Phong said.

According to Tran Vu, who is CEO of Dell Technologies Vietnam, AI has long been used for solving complex problems, automating tasks, improving decision-making and enhancing efficiency and productivity.

Dell has a four-pronged approach in our AI strategy, supporting users to more quickly deploy generative AI models with proven infrastructure. However, it is critical for businesses to first determine what they wish to accomplish with this before they can successfully leverage the tool to their full advantage, Vu said.

Chairman of AI Next Global Cao Xuan Hoai Vuong said that AI was not a temporary trend but a turning point of the era and businesses that did not use it would be left behind.

Developed countries such as Japan and Singapore all have AI development strategies. If Vietnam wants to promote the application of AI, ministries and relevant agencies need to consider AI as an opportunity for businesses to develop and rise, Vuong said.

The global AI market in 2023 is estimated to have an investment value of $93 billion, an increase of 12 per cent compared to last year, and it is expected to reach $15.7 trillion by 2030, according to consulting company GlobalData.

FPT Smart Cloud and Home Credit harness AI Innovation Lab Through the transformative power of the AI Innovation Lab, FPT Smart Cloud and Home Credit Vietnam have dramatically reshaped the financial sector's customer service landscape, achieving remarkable strides in operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and employee workload reduction by harnessing the potential of AI and cloud applications.

Ericsson and RMIT University to establish AI Lab in Vietnam Ericsson and RMIT University have elevated their cooperation to a new height with an agreement signed on August 18 for the launch of the RMIT & Ericsson AI Lab at RMIT's campus in Hanoi.
This pioneering issuance, valued at VND2.4 trillion (approximately $101.3 million), sets a new standard in Vietnam's capital market. It's dedicated to funding green projects focused on energy conservation, reducing emissions, and environmental protection, in line with BIDV's Green Bond Framework.

Moody's, a leading international credit rating agency, has bestowed a high rating on the BIDVs Green Bond Framework, affirming its stringent adherence to project selection, assessment, lending practices, governance, and reporting standards.

Remarkably, this BIDV issuance is Vietnam's first non-collateralised, non-subordinated, and non-guaranteed green bond issuance. This innovative structure demonstrates investor confidence in BIDV's credibility and financial strength. The investor pool consisted solely of insurance companies and fund management companies from world-leading insurance conglomerates.

Tran Long, deputy CEO of BIDV said, BIDV has a clear strategy towards developing green banking and green credit in line with the demands of accelerating green credit growth and managing Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) risks in our credit activities."

"We are ready to finance clients in low-carbon emission sectors and climate change adaptation. The capital raised from these green bonds will effectively boost BIDV's capacity to implement our strategy. Aligned with the government's commitment to achieving 'net-zero' emissions by 2050, we hope BIDV's pioneering international-standard green bond issuance inspires other institutions to join us in building a robust, sustainable green future.

Carolyn Turk, World Bank country director for Vietnam said, This initiative, ahead of COP28, supports Vietnam's climate objectives and contributes towards a livable planet. The World Bank is pleased to support Vietnam's ambitions to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The issuance of green bonds by commercial banks like BIDV is pivotal in attaining this goal. BIDV's green bonds will inspire corporations and commercial banks to collaboratively green our economy.

"Adhering to responsible investment policies, we support global sustainable development initiatives. Our investment team always considers ESG factors, aligning with our company's philosophy and operations," said Ngo The Trieu, CEO of Eastspring Investments.

"Investing in BIDV's green bonds exemplifies Eastspring Vietnam and Prudential Vietnam's commitment to Vietnam's sustainable development goals. We highly value BIDV's role as the first commercial bank in Vietnam to successfully issue bonds following ICMA's Green Bond Principles, along with a Second Party Opinion, affirming the bank's commitment to transparency, trust, and effective capital use," Trieu said.

Green workforce crucial to a green economy The Vietnamese government is targeting green growth with policies and international commitments towards the green economy. Nguyen Cong Thuy, founder and CEO of HRDC, discusses the influence of the green workforce on sustainable development.

BAC A BANK bond issuance to increase operational scale BAC A BANK will issue bonds for the third time as part of it plan to increase operations.
Vietnamese businesses are facing more challenges due to the competition in foreign markets and technical barriers, especially green standards in manufacturing.

The country's textile and garment exports experienced a 20 per cent on-year decline in the first nine months of 2023, and new regulations and standards around the world will need to be considered for Vietnamese apparel groups to prosper.

For example, while not mandatory, the OEKO-TEX certification is highly regarded in the EU, said Pham Van Viet, deputy chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Garments, Textiles, Embroidery, and Knitwear.

"It guarantees that the textile product is free from harmful substances and produced in an environmentally friendly manner. Therefore, if businesses pursue sustainable development, they need to take into consideration environmentally friendly production processes to meet market demand," he added.

Meanwhile, under its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, the EU has started to levy a carbon tax on imports of products made from processes that are not environmentally sustainable or non-green.

"If Vietnamese textile and garment businesses fail to meet the EU's green standards in 2024, they will be subject to an environmental protection tax. At present, only 5-10 per cent of such firms in Ho Chi Minh City fulfill the EU's green standards, which is far too low," Viet said.

In this context, Vietnamese textile and garment firms are actively seeking new technology and machinery at an international exhibition on apparel machinery and industrial equipment (VTG 2023) to meet green requirements. The exhibition is took place over October 25-28, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center, and gathered over 830 booths with more than 500 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions.

In addition to showcasing cutting-edge technology, many international exhibitors also presented environmentally friendly chemical dyeing products. Over 20 companies like Insilico, Yorkshire, Vast, and Super Dry hope to bolster the process integrity of Vietnam's textile industry through environmentally friendly dyeing strategies, simplifying compliance with EU standards.

Alongside VTG 2023, other similar events have been held in recent times, including the 21st International Exhibition of Textile and Garment Accessories and the International Exhibition of Dyeing and Chemicals for the Textile Industry.

Vietnam's garment and textile companies eye sustainable products Companies seek to diversify supply chains to tap into opportunities from a wide range of new-generation free trade agreements and an increasing flow of investments into the local market.

Positives signs for garments and textiles Figures from the General Department of Vietnam Customs show that Vietnams export value of garments and textiles rose 9.15 per cent to $392 million and 3.2 per cent to $3.2 billion respectively in July.
It is expected that Klaus Schwab, the founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF), will pay a visit to Vietnam by the end of the year to discuss how the forum can support Vietnam in implementing Industry 4.0 and boosting digital transformation.

Earlier in June, Vietnam and the WEF inked an MoU on promoting cooperation in many key sectors, including innovation in food, skills development for innovation, and green transformation and zero-emission industrial clusters.

Other sectors for cooperation also include plastic action, finance for renewable energy transition, and digital transformation cooperation and the establishment of an Industry 4.0 centre.

Domestic workers cannot be left behind digital upheaval, illustration photo/ Source: Shutterstock

In 2018, Schwab paid a visit to Vietnam with some novel ideas about how the country can move forward sustainably in Industry 4.0. The ideas were laid out in the Vietnamese-language version of his book Shaping the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which has been translated into about 30 languages.

The book draws on contributions by more than 200 of the worlds technological, economic and sociological experts to present a practical guide for citizens, business leaders, and policymakers.

It outlines the dynamics of todays technological revolution, highlights important stakeholders that are often overlooked in discussions of the latest scientific breakthroughs, and dives into 12 different technology areas key to the future. Vietnam should not miss Industry 4.0 opportunities, and one of the biggest jobs it must do is to ensure domestic workers will not be left behind due to digital transformation, Schwab said.

Preparing for the future

Tran Bao Tran is a fourth-year student of the Hanoi University of Science and Technology. She also works as a part-time technological programmer for a private company near her university to earn money, which would be used to join an English course and another course on designing using digital technologies.

Finding a job is quite difficult now, and I dont want to be jobless after graduation. Almost everyone is now using digital technology which is changing our life very fast, so we must learn to adapt to digital transformation, Tran said. I have to prepare for my future. I dont want to earn my living as my parents are in the countryside  working on the rice fields just to earn enough to live on.

Her brother, Tran Minh Duc is now studying computer science at Germanys Heidelberg University where he won a scholarship in 2021.

I am thinking about coming back to Vietnam to work as computer science is strongly developing in this country, with massive employment opportunities here, Duc said.

In Germany, I can learn much knowledge about the digital transformation, with a big focus placed on industrial development critically needed by Vietnam.

Vietnams shift from a centrally planned to a market economy has transformed the country from one of the poorest in the world into a lower middle-income country. Vietnam now is one of the most dynamic emerging countries in the East Asia region.

The country is experiencing rapid demographic and social change. After years of growth, the nations population reached about 100 million now (up from about 60 million in 1986) and is expected to expand to 120 million before tailing off around 2050.

At present, about 70 per cent of the population is under 35 years of age, with a life expectancy of close to 73 years. But the population is rapidly ageing. There is an emerging middle class, currently accounting for 13 per cent of the population, but expected to reach 26 per cent by 2026.

However, it is forecast that 56 per cent of all employment in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam is at high risk of being replaced with technology over the next decade or two.

Over the past 20 years, Vietnam has gradually entered global value chains while achieving a remarkable reduction in poverty. However, in the coming years, disruptive technologies are expected to present both challenges and opportunities for remaining on this successful trajectory, according to the World Bank.

In Vietnam now, about 1.6 million of new people like Tran and Duc enter the domestic labour market every year, which is a big burden for the country to provide sufficient employment.

This burden is expected to grow further as digital transformation ascends, with robots and high technologies set to replace many workers, especially manual ones. Industry 4.0 is changing everything  from the way we relate to each other, to the way our economies work, to what it means to be human. We cannot let the brave new world technology is creating simply emerge. We must shape the future we want to live in, Schwab of the WEF said.

Needing more assistance

Hoa Huu Cuong, head of the Institute for European Studies Department of European Nations Studies, said that for Vietnam to catch up with Industry 4.0, it must invest more into creating related human resources, as many nations have done.

For example, in Germany, 40 per cent of the workforce is in the scientific and technological sector, higher than the average rate of 33.5 per cent in the EU, and 34 per cent in the Eurozone.

Since 2011, the German government has been supporting universities in boosting scientific and technological cooperation with foreign governments, institutes, and universities.

According to Vietnams Ministry of Science and Technology, only 0.5 per cent of GDP is used for research and development (R&D) annually. The rate is 3.18 per cent in Germany.

Vietnam will miss its train to Industry 4.0 if its people and its businesses fail to improve themselves with knowledge of the ongoing digital technology revolution, Cuong said.

In Germany, thanks to heavy investment and favourable business for investors, companies in 2019 invested $102.6 billion into digital transformation. Last year, German startups mobilised $6.4 billion from investors.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has warned that Industry 4.0 and digital transformation will cause unemployment in Vietnam, given the countrys obstructions in R&D.

Vietnam must better prepare for, and adapt to, the impact of Industry 4.0 on drivers of growth and job creation. Accelerating Industry 4.0 offers both opportunities and risks in terms of future employment creation, as Vietnam embarks on new growth pathways, said a UNDP report on Industry 4.0.

It is anticipated that automation and AI will displace jobs in several sectors that have been driving Vietnams growth.

It is important to forecast the countrys growth drivers that will be affected by Industry 4.0 and the jobs at risk of being replaced by AI and automation, to explore potential negative impacts and formulate actions for mitigation, said the UNDP report.

Ingrid Christensen, Country director International Labour Organization Vietnam The increased megatrends including technological advances, demographic shifts, globalisation, and especially climate change and a shift to green production and consumption are changing the world of work profoundly. The transition to the green economy will inevitably involve destruction of a number of jobs but at the same time, the creation of new ones, including those for young people. We estimate that about 100 million new jobs can potentially be created by 2030, leading to a net job creation of 25 million jobs. Out of this, 8.4 million jobs are for young people. Asia-Pacific has strong potential for increased green jobs. In fact, there are already 5.8 million jobs in renewable energy. If the countries in the region continue investing in the environment, an additional 14 million jobs will be created. These can be only obtained if well managed by investing in skills development for workers, including young ones. Many workers will need to reskill, upskill, and adopt different work practices entailing the use of new tech that help improve resource efficiency. Young workers and those who still enrol in education would be more inclined to acquire new skills and competencies required by employers in the green economy. The ILO also estimates that, up to 2030, about 25 million young persons aged 15-29 are expected to enter the labour force searching for employment globally. Vietnam currently has 10.8 million young workers, accounting for 21.4 per cent of the labour force. This is a good opportunity to equip youth with the skills needed to succeed in the green economy, improving prospects for creating more and better-quality jobs. Sustainable development is only possible with the active engagement of governments, employers, workers, and concerned agencies who play critical roles, as well as young people who are able to develop new ways of thinking that protect the environment and promote sustainable work. It is therefore crucial to promote equal access to opportunities for skills development for youth so that they can unlock the potential of the green economy. Skills development for all including young people is a key policy agenda of our in response to the future of work. Our Centenary Declaration for the Future of Work adopted in 2019 highlighted the importance of taking a human-centered approach in meeting challenges and opportunities in the world of work. We are happy to work with Vietnam and others to build a meaningful and sustainable career and a greener future.

Time for Vietnam to grow faster and higher with digital transformation Any country in the world which wants to prosper must prosper in cyberspace. If Vietnam wishes to become a developed country with a high income, it must carry out digital transformation.
The signing was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha

The signing was at the Global Gateway Forum held in Brussels on October 25 to support the implementation of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) in Vietnam.

This memorandum signifies a mutual commitment to put in place a multi-project credit facility worth 500 million, soon to be finalised. Once established, the facility will allow projects supporting decarbonisation and energy transition to be financed under a framework loan.

Teresa Czerwinska, vice president of EIB, explained, The EIB's 500 million commitment goes beyond finance, driving a transition to sustainable energy and a resilient economy in Vietnam. Through initiatives like Global Gateway we, together with the European Commission, are turning global challenges into opportunities for sustainable development and innovation.

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission said, We are taking an important step to support Vietnams ambitious net-zero goal for 2050. The European Commission, the EIB and Vietnam are partnering to support the renewable energy transition and energy security. With this 500 million of funding, Global Gateway is making a difference for the people of Vietnam."

The agreement demonstrates EIB Globals commitment to promoting investment in climate mitigation and resilience, part of the EUs Global Gateway initiative. Accordingly, through Global Gateway, the EU is committed to helping Vietnam achieve a just energy transition and reach its national and international climate goals through an effective JETP.

The implementation of Global Gateway in Vietnam will also focus on the areas of green, circular economy and sustainability, as well as education and skills. This includes projects on forest value chains, skills development, and technical and vocational education and training, among others.

EIB Global is the EIB Groups new specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance outside the European Union.

Energy transition will not come without challenges To avoid catastrophic climate change and establish a trajectory that is compatible with the Paris Agreement, transformative changes to energy systems are urgently needed.

Fair energy transition awaits financing With public financing insufficient, Vietnam requires more affordable capital than commercial loans for a fair energy transition.
Vietnam's Electricity Regulatory Authority under the Ministry of Industry and Trade has reported a notable shift in the country's power generation landscape.

Currently, the national power system's collective capacity of nearly 80,000MW shows that state-owned enterprises, including EVN, Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (PetroVietnam), and Vietnam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin), now hold about 47 per cent of the capacity.

Specifically, EVN accounts for 37 per cent, primarily through direct and indirect ownership, with PetroVietnam and Vinacomin representing 8 per cent and 2 per cent respectively  mainly through gas, small hydroelectricity, and thermal power.

The remaining 53 per cent of power generation capacity is divided among private investors with 42 per cent, build-operate-transfer projects with approximately 10 per cent, and imported electricity and other sources at around 1 per cent.

A representative from the Electricity Regulatory Authority stated, "In less than two decades, the structure of power sources within Vietnam's electricity system has undergone significant changes, with state investment declining and private power surging. This shift indicates a move away from the monopolistic control previously held by EVN before 2006."

Presently, EVN directly manages only about 11 per cent of its total power capacity, primarily focusing on crucial multipurpose hydroelectric plants such as Lai Chau, Son La, Hoa Binh, and Tri An.

The remaining 26 per cent is held by three power generation corporations under EVN  Genco 1, Genco 2, and Genco 3. These corporations are currently in the process of equitisation, leading to a gradual decrease in EVNs shareholding.

Before 2012, the private sector made up less than 10 per cent of the power sources. However, this figure has impressively grown to 42 per cent following government incentives promoting renewable energy development.

Regarding power mobilisation, in the first nine months of 2023, the system's total output reached nearly 210 billion kilowatt hours, marking a 3 per cent increase compared to the same period last year. Of this, the installed capacity of renewable energy sources, standing at nearly 21,000MW and ranking third in the system, contributes close to 14 per cent of the total output.

The evolution of Vietnam's energy sector reflects a broader regional trend towards diversification and liberalisation in energy markets. With the country's increasing openness to private investment and a growing focus on renewable energy, Vietnam's power generation landscape is set to transform further, aligning more closely with international energy and environmental standards.

This shift not only represents a pragmatic response to the increasing energy demands but also illustrates Vietnam's commitment to sustainable development and climate change mitigation.

Just 13 per cent ready for KRX system rollout Over 77 per cent of securities firms in Vietnam have successfully tested the Korean Exchange (KRX) system functions, yet a mere 13 per cent are assessed as being ready for the system's live deployment.

Renewable energy set to create new jobs The energy transition will cause many jobs in the traditional energy industry to be lost, but it will also create thousands of green and sustainable employment opportunities in the economy.
F&B prioritising green development moves

Highlands Coffee, the coffee and beverage brand with the largest number of stores in Vietnam, last week issued announced plans to start construction of a coffee roasting factory in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau worth $21 million.

Covering around 24,000sq.m, the factory is expected to become one of the top large-scale coffee roasting factories in Vietnam with a complete capacity of 75,000 tonnes per year.

Besides huge capacity and large capital, one of the reasons why the facility is attracting attention is that it will participate in a sustainability project from the Global Coffee Platform.

The founder of Highlands Coffee, David Thai, said the factory is to be built with the aim to achieving Gold LEED certification for green architecture according to international standards as well as BRC (British Retail Consortium) certification for ensuring food safety in the machinery chain and wastewater treatment in compliance.

Solar energy equipment using Japanese and Swiss technology will also be installed at the factory to minimise costs and reduce the national power grid load.

With our readiness in terms of investment resources, experience, and operational systems, we will execute this project on schedule, efficiently, and sustainably. We will also establish a training centre and a museum showcasing the history of coffee development in Vietnam and the world, Thai said.

Highlands Coffees transformation has shown that this business has begun to focus on green and sustainable factors and see it as an advantage to stimulate business. This is also a strategic step for the brand to compete directly with global coffee brands, Thai added.

Previously, the beverage chain, which owns nearly 680 stores in Vietnam, had been criticised by some consumers for its half-hearted green campaigns, specifically in the slowness in converting from plastic straws to paper straws, while continuing to use plastic cups and spoons in stores.

In Vietnam, this sector has also continuously faced difficulties as the consumer demand has decreased since the beginning of this year. More than 40 per cent of businesses recorded a decrease in revenue in the first half of the year, of which more than 60 per cent are large businesses, according to a report on the food and beverage business market by iPOS.vn.

With the market value in 2023 expected to increase by 18 per cent compared to 2022, the food and beverage industrys demand has recovered strongly in the last months of the year.

Le Quang Kiet, corporate affairs director of HEINEKEN Vietnam, said that environment-related issues were one of the companys top priorities in the journey towards net-zero.

We will focus on the energy transition and maximizing circularity in production through the reuse  share - repair model, and water conservation with the ambition of 100 per cent water balance by 2025, Kiet said.

Innovation and creativity efforts in production have brought HEINEKEN Vietnam closer to its sustainability ambitions. Currently, 96 per cent of the energy used in the companys six breweries is renewable energy, and the landfilling of waste in production was cancelled in 2021.

This company has also invested $1.3 million in water conservation through forest planting and care activities in key river basins. We have contributed more than 1 per cent to Vietnams total GDP and created 246,000 jobs across the value chain, said Kiet.

Starbucks is also an example of green transformation. Its campaigns have helped this brand become the most successful foreign beverage brand in the Vietnamese market, and it has opened its 100th store in the country in 10 years.

The company started switching to using straws made from natural ingredients about four years ago and has also changed the lid design of beverage cups from PP to PET, helping customers drink easily without a straw. It is estimated that this change it has helped reduce the use of more than one million plastic straws each year.

CEO of Starbucks Vietnam Patricia Marques said, We do not do this because of the profits, but consider it a responsibility to contribute to the community. I hope the government will create conditions for businesses to make the transition to sustainable alternative materials, promoting more positive changes in the future.

ASEAN, RoK boost business ties in food, beverage The ASEAN-Korea Centre (AKC) on May 30 opened an ASEAN Trade Fair in the framework of the Seoul Food 2023 (SF2003) to showcase food and beverage products from ASEAN countries and create opportunities for ASEAN companies to connect and establish business partnerships with partners from the Republic of Korea (RoK).

Mixed fortunes persist in F&B arena The food and beverage sector has witnessed fluctuations as local businesses grapple with unprecedented challenges, despite the arrival of some foreign chains.
A survey conducted by the Vietnam Real Estate Research Institute in September has highlighted a strong demand from international investors for Vietnamese real estate properties.

This burgeoning focus, underscored by an extensive September 2023 survey of 500 major investors from 10 globally renowned real estate organisations  including those in the US, South Korea, and Singapore  signals a significant shift in global investment patterns.

According to the survey, a noteworthy 10.5 per cent of respondents rated the Vietnamese real estate market as highly attractive due to its compelling pricing. Meanwhile, 47.4 per cent found the market very appealing but noted the need for legal, informational, and data improvements to better facilitate foreign investment.

A spokesperson from the Vietnam Real Estate Research Institute remarked, "Vietnam's real estate market presents an enthralling opportunity for foreign investors, particularly given its price points. However, there is a clear call for enhanced legal and regulatory frameworks to maximise these investment opportunities."

Interest varied across different segments of the market, with 57.9 per cent of foreign investors expressing keenness in acquiring mid- to high-end apartments. Rental demand in this segment was substantial, accounting for 36.8 per cent.

The tourism and resort real estate sector also garnered notable interest, with purchase and rental demands reaching 26.3 per cent and 31.6 per cent, respectively.

Industrial real estate and commercial office spaces, however, seemed less appealing, with a mere 5.3 per cent showing interest in these areas.

When it comes to the timing and mode of investment, 63.2 per cent of investors asserted their willingness to invest more when conditions improve. Meanwhile, a moderate investment approach was favoured by 15.8 per cent, and 10.5 per cent were inclined towards substantial long-term investments.

This surge in foreign interest in Vietnamese real estate is a testament to the country's growing appeal as a prime investment destination. Nevertheless, the survey's findings also point towards a crucial need for the country to streamline and enhance its legal and regulatory environment to fully harness this international investment wave.

With Vietnam's real estate market currently at a pivotal stage, addressing these concerns could unlock tremendous potential, both for the investors and for the country's economic landscape.

Neighbouring real estate wobbles and their impact on Vietnam For many foreign investors, the two neighbouring countries of Vietnam and China seem to be similar in terms of their socioeconomic and political structure. Thus, investors exercising caution with the Vietnamese market. Prof. Andreas Stoffers, country director of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation in Vietnam, outlined his thoughts to VIR.
Also in attendance was Nguyen Anh Tuan, Secretary of Bac Ninh Party Committee, who was there to commemorate Goertek Vina Co., Ltd.'s 10-year anniversary.

Bin said, "Goetek initially arrived at Que Vo Industrial Park (IP), Bac Ninh in 2013. Since then, our total investment in the province accounts for a substantial 20 per cent of our overall global total, and the firm has already committed to three other projects."

These include a collectively registered investment surpassing $900 million, allocating $60 million to Goertek Vina, $565 million to Goertek Technology Vina, and an additional $280 million to its latest endeavour in Nam Son-Hap Linh IP.

However, the Nam Son-Hap Linh project has encountered challenges related to fire safety, electrical transmission, transformer stations, and various other factors. Addressing these issues, Bac Ninh leaders are slated for an on-site inspection this month to expedite a resolution.

According to local portal Bacninh.gov.vn, Goertek has reported a stunning growth rate of over 91 per cent across the decade. Significantly, Goertek's operations in Bac Ninh have been pivotal in job creation, providing employment for 37,000 local personnel, with forecasts predicting the workforce to nearly double, reaching approximately 70,000 by the second quarter of 2024.

Beyond its business accomplishments and manufacturing prowess, Goertek has earned recognition for its dedicated contribution to the wellbeing of its employees and the broader community. The company participates in various charitable and social welfare activities, reinforcing its commitment to the social and economic fabric of Bac Ninh.

Despite operating only two factories in 2021, Goertek's Vietnamese revenue exceeded $3.3 billion, predominantly generated by Goertek Technology Vina.

As per Goertek's consolidated report, in 2022, Goertek Technology Vina emerged as the second-largest investment by the conglomerate, accounting for nearly $109.3 million. Its total assets amounted to almost $1.7 billion.

The revenue from Goertek Technology Vina in 2022 stood at just under $2.5 billion, with a net profit of slightly over $191.3 million.

Frasers Property Vietnam and GELEX Group break ground on Bac Ninh project Frasers Property Vietnam (FPV) and GELEX Group jointly broke ground on the Industrial Centre Yen Phong 2C in Bac Ninh province on September 19, to make their first industrial and logistics project in North Vietnam since the signing of a partnership agreement in March.

Goertek commits additional $306 million to its multimedia equipment project in Bac Ninh Goertek, one of three major suppliers for Apple in Vietnam, has poured additional funds into its project in the northern province of Bac Ninh.
What made you decide to bring your projects here?

Jason Hsu, founder and CEO of Gryphon Canada

The idea of expanding the business into Vietnam was sparked when I was quarantined for 14 days at a hotel due to the pandemic and overheard the news that Vietnam's GDP grew by more than 8 per cent in 2022. This growth really surprised me, and it shows there is significant potential for studying abroad. Canada is a great destination for this.

Besides this, I noticed that many Taiwanese investors in different sectors, from real estate to manufacturing and services, are doing business and living in Vietnam. Some of them have even been in Vietnam for more than two generations. Those are potential buyers for our products in Canada.

In the Vietnamese market, Gryphon Canada targets a customer group of parents who have children studying abroad in Canada and want to have a home in this country.

Therefore, when we were looking to expand into foreign markets to sell real estate, we immediately thought of Vietnam. In less than half a year of entering the market, we see that we have had a relatively good start here.

Can you tell us about any projects for the Vietnamese market?

When I first arrived in Canada 17 years ago, I sought out a doctor due to physical discomfort, but my personal experience then with medical services was not good enough.

I also felt the difficulties of seeking medical treatment as an immigrant. Therefore, I decided to combine good-quality buildings with medical services. As a result, I developed Marco Polo, a medical-oriented office building with 11 storeys above ground and a 4-floor basement, located in Vancouver, of which we hope to sell units to parents and people in Vietnam as investors.

This project aims to meet the medical and educational needs of the local neighbourhood. Current medical buildings such as Regent, Broadway, and Fairmont in Vancouver have existed since the 1950s and now the market needs new and advanced medical buildings to meet the increasing demand of residents.

According to a quarterly report on commercial real estate from Colliers International, the demand for rented space that can be used for medical services in Vancouver is currently up to 24 per cent, just behind the tech industry at 26 per cent. This figure has climbed by more than three times compared to 2018-2019, and continues to record on-year growth.

Marco Polo also provides retail space on the first floor alongside educational and childcare services on the third floor. The specialised international medical services floor focuses on family clinics and functional medicine, and there are multidisciplinary healthcare facilities stretching from the sixth to the eighth floors.

Gryphon Canada's goal in the Vietnamese market is to sell 15-20 units in the near future. It currently has a few first customers. Recently, Gryphon Canada sold 30 units in Taiwan and 20 units in other markets.

Canada's top medical group RMEDY Executive Health, founded by Dr. Martin Braun, announced a partnership to expand its business facility on the eighth floor of Marco Polo in August.

In the future, RMEDY will invite Dr. James Leung, the godfather of Asian functional medicine, to provide high-standard medical services to Marco Polo's premises owners and neighbouring residents.

Located in front of the intersection of Cambie Street and W49 Avenue in the Cambie Corridor, adjacent to Langara-49th train station and Langara College, the Marco Polo office achieved AAA standards with LEED GOLD, optimally meeting the strict criteria of contemporary office space.

What is Gryphon Canada's long-term strategy in Vietnam?

In the long-term, Gryphon Canada plans to cooperate with educational consulting units in Vietnam because the majority of the company's customers need accommodation in Canada. They tend to prefer it to other countries like the UK, the US, Australia, and even New Zealand.

To date, Gryphon Canada has five projects in its development portfolio, of which Westbury was already handed over to its homeowners, Gryphon House has recently celebrated its topping out milestone while Gryphon Nova and Marco Polo are being developed, and Dunbar is planned for development in the next five years. The parent group Jinray (from Taiwan) offers financial support and design consultancy services for Gryphon Canada.

A perspective view of the Marco Polo project developed by Gryphon Canada

How do investors feel about the Canadian real estate market?

The market in Vancouver has had a long development journey and is now relatively stable, so buying and reselling real estate products to make a profit does not happen much any more.

There are some main factors that attract global investors to Vancouver, including market fluctuations, the race among global investment funds, the synchronous urban transportation infrastructure, and the aim to stay ahead of trends.

In addition, policies on real estate ownership, transfer tax, inheritance, and foreign investment attraction are also core factors in boosting the attractiveness of real estate in Canada in general and Vancouver in particular.

In Vancouver, the innovation plan for the next 20 years in the Cambie Corridor has been announced, leading to the fact that a series of prominent private investors and funds from around the world are present here and anticipate added value in the future.

The commercial office occupancy rate in Vancouver is the highest in North America at 93.6 per cent, while the annual value increase rate is 8 per cent. Investors, meanwhile, often see a rental profit of 4 per cent a year within five years.

Gryphon Canada launches in Vietnam Gryphon Canada, an art-focused real estate developer hailing from Vancouver, announced its launch in Vietnam on June 22, expanding its existing footprint from Vancouver, Taichung, Hong Kong, Beijing, and Shanghai.

Canada elevates technical assistance Vietnam and Canada are witnessing their heyday in bilateral ties, with both nations currently celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations. Shawn Steil, Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam, talked to VIRs Hara Nguyen about more promising land of cooperation in areas such as clean energy and green growth.
Israel said its ground forces had made a big push into Gaza overnight to attack Hamas targets as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was still preparing for a ground invasion that could be one of several.

The United States and other countries are urging Israel to delay a full invasion; Gaza is reeling from almost three weeks of Israeli bombing triggered by a mass killing spree in southern Israel by Iranian-backed Hamas, which runs the besieged enclave.

Other Iranian-backed groups have since attacked Israel and U.S. forces elsewhere in the region; Western leaders fear that a ground invasion with a high death toll among Palestinian civilians, who have already been killed in large numbers by Israeli air strikes, could spark a wider war.

U.S. President Joe Biden held a call with Netanyahu, discussing "ongoing efforts to locate and secure the release" of Americans believed held hostage by militants in Gaza, the White House said overnight.

Israel said there were 224 hostages. Hamas has threatened to kill some of those it holds, who include many foreign passport holders, but has freed four since Friday. Gaza began receiving a small amount of aid the following day.

The White House said Biden and Netanyahu also discussed safe passage for other foreigners wishing to leave Gaza, a continuous flow of aid into the narrow coastal strip, and a pathway to permanent peace with the Palestinian people.

"The President reiterated that Israel has every right and responsibility to defend its citizens from terrorism and to do so in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law," the statement said.

The comments reflect a balancing act over U.S. support for Israel's actions after Biden was criticised for casting doubt on Palestinian casualty figures.

Netanyahu, who has suggested repeatedly that a ground invasion is imminent, told citizens in an address on Wednesday evening: "I will not elaborate on when, how or how many." (Reuters)
During the visit, they engaged with Can Tho's leadership, Can Tho University management, top ecologists, and the local business community to emphasise their joint commitment to the Mekong Delta and the broader Indo-Pacific region.

The consul generals highlighted their bilateral and multilateral priorities during a meeting on October 24 with Secretary of Can Tho Party Committee Nguyen Van Hieu and Chairman of Can Tho Peoples Committee Tran Viet Truong.

They also discussed how to strengthen cooperation between the three diplomatic missions and Can Tho to respond to the citys needs on a wide range of important topics, including business and trade, energy, climate change, health, technology, and education.

We are not only celebrating each of our bilateral partnerships with Vietnam, but also the collective impact when we work together, US consul general Susan Burns said.

Our three countries are deeply invested in Vietnams success. Its success is our success, and we acknowledge the critical role the country can play in ensuring regional security and stability. We will continue to respond to the nations needs and priorities, such as clean energy, climate resilience, agriculture, the digital economy, trade facilitation, health, and higher education, she continued.

Australian consul general Sarah Hooper said, Australia, Japan, and the United States share a commitment to an open, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, where we can all cooperate, trade, and thrive.

We are making a positive contribution to the Indo-Pacific by delivering practical outcomes that respond to the priorities of Vietnam and the region, including to advance the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals, she added.

Japanese Consul General Ono Masuo stated, Japan has been providing official development assistance to Can Tho University since 1969 to boost agricultural and fishery production, as well as to tackle climate change in the Mekong Delta provinces and Can Tho city.

The tour demonstrates the great potential of various stakeholders coming together to bring new prosperity to the region while protecting the environment in creative ways, he concluded.

On October 25, the consul generals visited Can Tho University to learn about each countries' partnership with Vietnam in the Mekong Delta to address climate change adaptation, pollution reduction and clean up, and environmental remediation and education.

In addition, they toured the Mekong River by boat with leading ecologists to witness the impact of climate change on local communities. They considered suggestions on how the three countries could best assist Vietnam and other Lower Mekong countries in promoting stability, peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

Moreover, they visited The Interceptor 003, a joint Coca-Cola Vietnam and The Ocean Cleanup venture, with the capability of extracting 55 tonnes of marine rubbish and debris per day in the Can Tho River.

They also went to the Cuu Long Delta Rice Research Institute and saw facilities researching the establishment of a sustainable smallholder rice value chain in the Mekong Delta, funded by the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research in partnership with SunRice Group.
According to the Department of Housing and Real Estate Market Management under the Ministry of Construction, several large-scale projects have now kicked off, including the 500-hectare VSIP II Nghe An, the 900ha VSIP Can Tho, the 282ha VSIP Bac Ninh II, the 250ha Gia Binh II Industrial Park in the northern province of Bac Ninh, and the 410ha Long Thanh High-Tech Industrial Park in the southern province of Dong Nai.

The entry and expansion of multinational corporations in Vietnam, particularly in the industrial manufacturing and processing sector, are significantly contributing to the industrial real estate market.

The first nine months of 2023 alone have seen foreign direct investment (FDI) in this sector exceed $14 billion, a 15.5 per cent on-year increase that accounts for nearly 69.3 per cent of the total registered investment capital.

This surge in FDI has directly impacted the demand for industrial properties, propelling a positive growth trajectory in 2023. Industry surveys by various real estate service organisations indicate a slight up tick in the rental demand and occupancy rates for industrial real estate in the third quarter of 2023.

Occupancy rates in key industrial markets, both in the north and south of Vietnam, have remained robust, hovering around 85-90 per cent across industrial land, factories, and ready-built warehouses.

The transaction rate for industrial land has increased by approximately 5.9 per cent from the previous quarter, cumulatively marking a 20 per cent increase in the first nine months compared to the whole of last year.

Rental prices in industrial parks during Q3/2023 have remained generally stable, with a minor increment compared to Q2.

The average rent for industrial land in top-tier southern markets reached approximately $189 per square metre for the remaining lease term, witnessing a 1 per cent increase from the previous quarter and a notable 13 per cent rise from the same period last year.

This data underlines a buoyant Vietnamese industrial real estate sector, bolstered by increasing foreign investment and a burgeoning manufacturing and processing industry.

Industrial real estate firms to benefit from land fund shortage The demand for industrial land for lease in Vietnam remains high, but the supply of industrial land is low.

A quarter of real estate firms expected to survive 2023 without help By mid-2022, a series of tighter regulations had caused a sharp contraction in property supply, weakening the market's liquidity. In the first quarter of 2023, the horizon seemed brighter due to determined efforts from the government to implement policies aimed at unravelling bureaucracy, but one expert paints a starker picture.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on October 25 met with Anthony Capuano, president and CEO of Marriott International, as reported by the government's Electronic Information Portal.

During the meeting, PM Chinh congratulated Marriott on their global and particularly Vietnamese ventures, noting their success in developing high-end hotel and resort chains.

"Tourism is a crucial economic sector, pivotal for nationwide economic growth and benefitting local economies, he said. "Marriott should continue to invest expansively in tourism, hospitality, and resorts, aligning with Vietnam's conditions and appealing to international tourists."

Capuano outlined Marriotts operations in Vietnam, managing 16 hotels under eight global brands such as JW Marriott, Le Meridien, and Sheraton.

With plans to inaugurate 20 more hotels and resorts in key locations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, and Phu Quoc, Capuano praised Vietnam's tourism potential, citing its natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary diversity.

"We are deeply committed to expanding our investment and long-term development in Vietnam," Capuano said. "Our vision aligns closely with PM Chinh's objectives, focusing on enhancing Vietnam's appeal as a premier tourist destination."

Marriott also plans to employ more high-quality Vietnamese talent within its hotel chain and actively engage in social welfare activities in the country.

Established in 1927 in the US by J. Willard and Alice Marriott, Marriott International, a global hospitality leader, now operates as the world's largest hotel chain. With a strong commitment to the founding family's principles, the company maintains an influential presence in the industry, boasting about 8,000 properties and nearly 1.5 million rooms within 139 countries and territories.

Inside Lego's $1 billion visionary expansion in Vietnam Nestled within the bustling industrial canvas of Binh Duong province, Danish toy titan Lego is constructing more than just a factory  it's laying down a vision.
Previously, in April 2022, Nam A Bank partnered with EY Vietnam to initiate the project to implement IFRS at the bank. After more than 18 months of diligent execution, Nam A Bank and EY Vietnam have organised a ceremony to mark the handover of this project, signifying an important milestone in the bank's pioneering efforts to adopt international financial management standards.

This milestone, coinciding with the bank's 31st anniversary, underscores the institution's commitment to raising its standards in line with international practices. The adoption of IFRS, considered a benchmark for financial governance worldwide, marks Nam A Bank as one of the pioneering Vietnamese entities embracing global financial management norms.

"The pioneering implementation of this project will enhance our bank's capabilities in risk management and financial governance, adhering to international standards," stated a representative from EY Vietnam.

The representative also emphasised the proactive role and expertise of Nam A Bank's personnel in integrating these new standards into their risk management system. With staff well-versed in IFRS, Nam A Bank positions itself at the forefront of meeting these global benchmarks.

International standards like IFRS and Basel III, which Nam A Bank was one of the first in Vietnam to complete, play a crucial role in ensuring banks adhere to the highest principles and standards of governance, operations, and business conduct. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by Nam A Bank to incorporate advanced international standards and ensure operational effectiveness.

Vo Hoang Hai, deputy general director of Nam A Bank elaborated, "Implementing international practices like IFRS not only enhances our risk management and financial governance but also contributes to the transparency and integrity of our financial reporting. Adopting these global standards elevates Nam A Bank's credibility and position both domestically and internationally."

Over its 31-year history, Nam A Bank has consistently led in adopting progressive standards, reinforcing the bank's operational efficiency. Looking ahead, the bank aims to further strengthen its governance capacity, emphasising transparency and risk management with international partners and investors.

This strategy aligns with Nam A Banks goals of efficiently utilising capital, managing operations, and driving proactive, transparent, safe, and sustainable business growth.

BAC A BANK twice-honoured at APEA 2023 BAC A BANK has been awarded a prize at this year's Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA 2023), and Thai Huong, the bank's general director, has been honoured with an award in the 'Master Entrepreneur' category.

Businesses lining up for IFRS conversion Vietnamese businesses conversion and adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards are among the most significant measures towards pushing for greater transparency, particularly for publicly traded entities, according to a number of senior executives.
Since the Healthcare Innovation Forums inauguration last year, we are glad to see positive dialogues and concrete steps towards solutions to improve patient access and foster an innovation-driven healthcare sector.

Emin Turan, Chairman, Pharma Group

We want to congratulate Vietnam on the ambitious, renewed goals in recent resolutions issued by the Party Central Committee, and most recently, Decision No.1156 providing the National Strategy for Pharma Sector Development to 2030 with a vision to 2045.

Towards successful implementation of these goals, we were honoured to welcome many world-leading experts, innovators, and leaders to share perspectives to this years forum. We anticipate that these discussions will not only shed light on the path of innovation but also uncover the opportunities and obstacles. They will inspire the essential factors and determination required to spearhead progress in healthcare innovation.

As pioneers in research and development, Pharma Group and our members are not only committed to enabling fast and sustainable access to innovative and quality medicine to the patient of Vietnam, but also to act as a catalyst to support the nation in its aspiration of a more productive, healthier, and wealthier society as a whole by realising the value of innovation.

Pharma Group has been a trusted partner with the Vietnamese government for more than 25 years. We are proud to be able to partner by providing our expertise in practical recommendations but also implementation support to our government stakeholders. We are also collaborating closely with our local counterpart to develop a more predictable and sustainable ecosystem for the pharma sector.

Based on a recent Pharma Sector Business Sentiment Report for the first half of 2023, it is important to note two key messages.

The first is that the industry (both local and foreign) has a positive sentiment on the opportunities and increased investments into the Vietnam market  this is especially noteworthy, noting the sentiment across other industries can differ.

The second is both local and foreign industry are aligned that an improvement in the legal framework will need to happen fast. More specifically, the streamlining of regulation affecting time to patient  procurement and reimbursement of medicines.

With the recent promulgation of the new national strategy to develop the pharma sector, we are delighted that some of our key recommendations have been adapted, such as the importance of creating a national steering committee headed by the prime minister.

Furthermore, we are further motivated by the fact that industry insiders have all identified the importance of the improvement of the legal framework. Specifically, there will be immediate opportunities with the current drafting/revision of the Pharma Law, the Health Insurance Law, and the tender decree to name a few, with all the relevant guiding circulars.

We would like to reiterate the foundations are in place in the form of various resolutions - the key focus here is how to transpose the direction effectively into specific, conducive regulations that will help Vietnam to achieve its aspiration.

Pharma Group is continuing its unwavering commitment to be a trusted partner with all like-minded stakeholders during this process.
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed Guy Bradley, chairman of the British multinational conglomerate John Swire & Sons (Swire Group), at the Government Office on the afternoon of October 24. The meeting highlighted Swire's expanding footprint in Vietnams vibrant economy.

Celebrating over 200 years of history, Swire Group reported a robust revenue of approximately $16 billion in 2022, signalling not only its global commercial success but also its dynamic operational diversity.

"Our longstanding relationship with Vietnam, flourishing over the last 25 years across various sectors, underscores our belief in the countrys potential and our commitment to contributing positively to its economy," said Bradley.

The PM congratulated the British group on its success and encouraged further expansion in key areas such as aviation services, trade and industry, logistics, real estate, healthcare, and the development of production, distribution, and retail networks within Vietnam.

He emphasised the importance of investing in human resource development, particularly fostering high-quality talent and practical cooperation with Vietnamese universities and vocational training institutions.

Highlighting the role of cutting-edge technology, prime minister Chinh urged Swire Group to augment the value-added component of its production line, boosting localisation and the utilisation of Vietnam's auxiliary technologies.

He also stressed the significance of integrating Vietnamese enterprises into Swire's global supply chain, urging a focus on renewable energy usage and a balance between economic development and social responsibility.

These initiatives, he noted, are crucial in aiding Vietnam's green growth objectives and effective climate change response.

Bradley provided an overview of Swires long-term operational plans in Vietnam, sharing insights into the Groups commitments to sustainable development, green growth, and the circular economy.

Since its inception in Vietnam in 1988, the group has been involved in various sectors, including aviation through Cathay Pacific (a subsidiary of Swire Group), real estate, and more recently, beverage production. In January, Swire Coca-Cola Ltd. acquired Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam Ltd., bolstering employment with over 2,000 direct and 20,000 indirect local jobs, he shared.

Acknowledging Vietnam's continuously improving investment climate, Bradley expressed great confidence in the success of Swire's operations, "Our commitment to Vietnam is unwavering. We are keen to deepen our investments, particularly in the aviation and healthcare sectors, further contributing to the nation's development."

Swire Coca-Cola records first-half revenue of $238 million in Vietnam Swire Coca-Cola, a wholly owned subsidiary of Swire Pacific Ltd., reported revenue of $237.68 million from its Vietnamese business in the first half of 2023.
There are as many as 17 different types of logistics services in Vietnam. For instance, loading and unloading services, mainly focusing on seaports and inland container deports (ICDs). Many ports have developed forcefully in recent times with professionally developed technology systems, highly automated information systems, and terminal operating systems at about 80 per cent of functions at major ports.

Tran Chi Dung, member of the Executive Committee at the Vietnam Logistics Business Association

However, loading and unloading equipment is still running semi-automatically and manually on command, especially at small ports and ICDs. The next challenge is applications to improve the performance of each port and especially the connection among ports, between ports and shipping lines and other transporters such as barges, roads and railways, creating an integrated service chain.

For container warehousing services, including large container yards at ports, logistics centres and ICDs, in general, all have been digitalised and applied management systems. However, the level of modernity of the systems is very different, leading to unevenness between advanced systems in large ports which are almost automatic and small container yards managed manually.

Sea freight transport services are provided by large and professional shipping lines, which have global management systems. Currently, the trend of cutting out intermediaries is very popular. Shipping lines are gradually moving to automate the distribution and sale of freight, and integrate services throughout the supply chain.

They are trying to transform themselves into a supply chain management company, and they have the conditions to realise this ambition due to high profits over the past few years. This situation puts great pressure on Vietnamese shipping companies, which have just escaped from a domestic crisis and are still small in scale. The selection of technology among Vietnamese shipping companies will depend greatly on their business model and development goals.

Inland waterway freight transport services are provided by inland transport companies, and some of which have become professional. They already have basic transport management technologies, but the connection with other systems is low.

Railway freight transport services are very limited, provided by a few domestic transport service companies, with very outdated technology and equipment. This has been a problem for many years.

Catching up

In terms of road freight transport services, they are provided by domestic transport companies, with the majority being truck companies, transport cooperatives, and personal vehicles. Among them, some have been organised and managed professionally. In addition to mandatory equipment and systems such as GPS, basic transportation management systems are not yet popular, while this group of services accounts for up to 75 per cent of total shipping volume.

Air cargo transport services are provided by domestic and foreign air carriers operating in Vietnam. The technology applied by these carriers is of high standards because they must always comply with international practices. Like shipping lines, the trend of cutting out intermediaries is currently very popular, and airlines are gradually moving to automate the distribution and sale of freight.

Common platforms that support freight booking are actively opening the Vietnamese market with very dynamic services. Meanwhile, Vietnam still does not have an airline specialising in cargo.

Multimodal transportation services are involved by physical carriers, or Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier. As this model has been developing for a long, technology and international freight forwarding management system are no longer strange to professional suppliers. Many service providers are using this technology. However, Vietnam does not have many service providers using world-standard technology systems, often due to cost.

In ASEAN, most nations are far behind Singapore in digital transformation of logistics. Vietnams level of applied tech is not far from Malaysia and Thailand. And we are confident of being dynamic in working with our Indonesian and Philippine colleagues.

The effectiveness of technology application at large companies is currently good. For example, Saigon New Port, after successfully applying advanced production management and operation programmes, has reduced the time of ships staying at dock by 55 per cent, reducing goods delivery time three-fold, cutting 60 per cent of labour and traffic incidents.

The ePort electronic port product is one of the successful projects, helping reduce the time for vehicles to wait at the port gate from 13 minutes to around half of that. And the electronic customs clearance time has been reduced by two minutes per container, which helps increase gate delivery output from 11,000 up to 20,000 vehicles a day.

Similarly, Vietnam Post is building the Vmap platform and a real-time address database on positioning, address data, and assigning codes to addresses to households. The platform can digitalise and accurately locate customers addresses to provide information for businesses in industries, sectors, and services that need to find customers.

Nevertheless, many businesses providing logistics services are small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with weak financial resources. On average, the process of digital transformation for an entire enterprise can reach millions of US dollars, which SMEs cannot afford. If businesses decide to invest in automation like foreign models, initial investment is costly. If they follow the internal model, it will cost IT human resources and take a lot of time. In addition, it is also difficult for them to find suitable solutions due to limited knowledge and information about solutions.

It will be extremely difficult for logistics service providers to do digital transformation without support for research and development and technology investment from the state or financial and credit institutions.

There are also the limitations of solution providers, including schools and institutes. We are renowned for being good at IT, and have many engineers, masters, PhDs, technology corporations, and others, but in reality there are too few convincing solution providers. The biggest limitation is that most companies only provide single solutions, and are not yet connected into a digital platform for the national logistics service industry.

Aspects for development

Our surveys indicate that digital transformation in the logistics industry is facing many difficulties, such as lack of connectivity, lack of information about digital tech, lack of related infrastructure, lack of internal human resources, and difficulties in investment costs and application, as well as struggles in changing habits and business practices.

In addition, more than 90 per cent of SMEs have difficulties choosing technology suitable for their services.

To promote digital transformation in logistics, four factors should be in focus, and the first is policy and mechanisms. Vietnam has many policies, resolutions, and programmes, but most of them are on paper, and the effectiveness of implementation is very limited. There should be more policies to solve these existing problems. It is particularly necessary to have development policy mechanisms to accompany and connect with global digital supply chains, with more creative and sustainable economic models.

Second is infrastructure to support digital transformation. In parallel with integrated planning, it is necessary to review and build important new infrastructure development projects such as shared data warehouses, digital maps, and logistics information infrastructure, and related supply chain applications. We must also develop technical infrastructure to support green transportation, energy transition, fuel usage and support the development of application platforms in trade, transportation, and finance, and especially in integrating all three groups, called Buy-Ship-Pay model.

Third is digital transformation for service providers. We must develop information infrastructure investors, providing a variety of services to support logistics service providers, helping them become professional regardless of the model they operate.

The final aspect is the overhaul of logistics at service user groups. It is necessary to have applications in purchasing, manufacturing, warehouse and reserve management, distribution management, delivery, customers services, and applications in industries and all sizes of businesses.

Logistics providers in Hong Kong eye Vietnamese market Logistics service providers from Hong Kong are looking to strengthen partnerships with their Vietnamese counterparts to tap into the nation's logistics market.
A former Louisville police officer who fired into Breonna Taylors apartment the night she was killed is going on trial in federal court this 
BOSTON (AP)  The Boston City Council on Wednesday overwhelmingly approved a resolution that calls for renaming Faneuil Hall, a popular tourist site that is named after a wealthy merchant who owned and traded slaves.

The measure, authored by Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, is likely to garner political support for changing the name of Faneuil Hall but it remains unclear when, if ever, the name will be changed. The City Council doesnt have the authority to change the name. That power lies with a little-known city board called the Public Facilities Commission.

In her resolution, Fernandes Anderson decried the buildings namesake, Peter Faneuil, as a white supremacist, a slave trader, and a slave owner who contributed nothing recognizable to the ideal of democracy.

Symbols are extremely important, Fernandes Anderson said ahead of the 10-3 vote. As we look at them, we understand, internalize and become our environment ... We continue to believe we are less than because racists, slave traders, rapists, looters ... actually get to be honored with a name.

Councilman Brian Worrell, who voted for the measure, said the name change would be an important step in addressing systemic racism in the city.

These landmarks in the community, in the city of Boston, should reflect our values, he said. This action sends a powerful message about our commitment to justice and equity ... A new name would symbolize a journey towards racial reconciliation and racial justice.

Still, the three members who voted against the measure were the only white men on the council. Among them was Councilman Frank Baker who criticized the measure because the council doesn't have the authority to change the name and the resolution didn't propose a new name. He also said the measure alone wouldn't improve race relations in the city.

I dont think it really does anything to afford a dialogue on race. They want to rip the name from there with no dialogue, he said of resolution's supporters. They are not respecting our history. We can't even have a hearing on who (Peter Faneuil) was."

Former Mayor Marty Walsh opposed a name change and current Mayor Michelle Wu was noncommittal. She told reporters Wednesday that more research was needed and that there were mixed views on the name change in the community, given the building's unique history and the fact it is known around the world as the seat of liberty and the place where so many of the early abolitionist conversations took place.

The push is part of a larger discussion on forms of atonement to Black Bostonians for the citys role in slavery and its legacy of inequality. Last year, the council formed a task force to study how it can provide reparations for and other forms of atonement to Black Bostonians for the citys role in slavery and its legacy of inequality.

The downtown meeting house was built for the city by Faneuil in 1742 and was where Samuel Adams and other American colonists made some of the earliest speeches urging independence from Britain.

It is important that we hold a hearing on changing the name of this building because the name disrespects Black people in the city and across the nation, Pastor Valerie Copeland, of the Dorchester Neighborhood Church, said in a statement. Peter Faneuil's involvement in the transatlantic slave trade is an embarrassment to us all.

The Rev. John Gibbons, a minister at the Arlington Street Church, said in a statement that the goal is not to erase history with a name change but to correct the record. He was a man who debased other human beings, he said. His name should not be honored in a building called the cradle of liberty.

Some activists suggested the building could instead honor Crispus Attucks, a Black man considered the first American killed in the Revolutionary War. Fernandes Anderson said the new name should be chosen by the community and the building could be renamed for a true freedom fighter such as Frederick Douglass. The resolution also proposed Elizabeth Freeman, an enslaved woman who went to court to win her freedom more than 80 years before the Emancipation Proclamation.

The push to rename famous spots in Boston is not new.

In 2019, Boston officials approved renaming the square in the historically Black neighborhood of Roxbury to Nubian Square from Dudley Square. Roxbury is the historic center of the states African American community. Its where a young Martin Luther King, Jr. preached and Malcolm X grew up.

Supporters wanted the commercial center renamed because Roxbury resident Thomas Dudley was a leading politician when Massachusetts legally sanctioned slavery in the 1600s.

A year earlier, the Red Sox successfully petitioned to change the name of a street near Fenway Park that honored a former team owner who had resisted integration.
The United States does not have the right to get involved in problems between China and the Philippines, the Chinese foreign ministry said on Thursday, as tensions simmer over conflicts in disputed waters of the South China Sea.

"The U.S. is not party to the South China Sea issue, it has no right to get involved in a problem between China and the Philippines," said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning at a regular press briefing when asked about the U.S. saying it will defend the Philippines.

China and the Philippines have had several high-profile confrontations in the South China Sea, most notably in disputed waters around the Second Thomas Shoal, part of the Spratly Islands.

Last Sunday, a Chinese vessel collided with a Philippine boat, with Manila condemning "in the strongest degree" the "dangerous blocking manoeuvres" of the vessel.

"The U.S. promise of defending the Philippines must not hurt China's sovereignty and maritime interests in the South China Sea, and it also must not enable and encourage the illegal claims of the Philippines," Mao said.

A spokesperson for the Philippine foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday at the White House that America's commitment to Philippines defence remains "iron-clad," after accusing China of acting "dangerously and unlawfully" in the South China Sea.

"Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke ... our Mutual Defence Treaty with the Philippines," Biden said in remarks during a joint meeting with Australia's prime minister.

The United States and the Philippines recently agreed on new guidelines for their 1951 Mutual Defence Treaty. The guidelines now specifically mention that mutual defence commitments would be invoked if there were an armed attack on either country anywhere in the South China Sea. (Reuters)
WASHINGTON (AP)  Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor for triggering a fire alarm as lawmakers scrambled to pass a funding bill before a government shutdown deadline in September.

He is expected to plead guilty, formally apologize and pay a $1,000 fine. The false fire alarm charge would then be dropped if he successfully completes 3 months of probation.

The alarm forced the evacuation of a House office building for over an hour. The New York lawmaker has acknowledged pulling the alarm and said it was a mistake. He was in a rush to go to vote, tried to go through a door that was unexpectedly closed and wrongly thought pulling the fire alarm lever would help him open it, he said.

At the time of the evacuation, House Democrats were working to delay a vote on a funding bill to keep federal agencies open. They had said they needed time to review a bill that Republicans abruptly released to avoid a shutdown. The funding package was ultimately approved with most Republicans and almost all Democrats, including Bowman, supporting the bill.

Republicans criticized Bowman after the alarm, and on Wednesday introduced a motion to censure him. Rep. Bryan Steil, the chairman of the Committee on House Administration, referred the case to Capitol police. He called Bowmans explanation an excuse."

He pointed out that Bowman passed several police officers after pulling the alarm without alerting them about it. Bowman, for his part, has said he was urgently trying to get to the vote and said Republicans would attempt to distract everyone with the case.

Prosecutors said Bowman was treated like anyone else who violates the law and has agreed to pay the maximum fine, according to a spokesperson for the District of Columbia attorney generals office.

Bowman told police at the time he didnt mean to disrupt any congressional proceeding, according to court documents. He said he didnt immediately tell anyone about the alarm going off because he was in a hurry to vote.

Under an agreement with the D.C. attorney general, the charge will be withdrawn in three months if the congressman provides a formal apology to Capitol police and pays a $1,000 fine.

Bowman said he was grateful for the quick resolution in the case, and looking forward to putting it behind him. I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped," he said.

Associated Press writer Farnoush Amiri contributed to this report.
Part of Wacos Dia de los Muertos observances have seen the creation of public ofrendas, or offering (ofrenda) altars, by Waco artists and two have combined for a new one at Waco Memorial Funeral Home, 6623 S. Interstate 35.

Artists Eric Linares and Jesus Rivera collaborated on the homes new ofrenda, a lifelong dream for family service counselor Juan Valdivia, with Linares crafting the three-tiered ofrenda in one room and Rivera painting several Catrinas on hanging canvas panels in the room and a foyer outside it.

Ofrendas, found in several Latin American cultures, provide a way for many families to remember their loved ones for Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, and All Saints Day, Nov. 1 and 2. Their roots, however, stretch back to harvest celebrations by the Aztecs and other indigenous cultures that preceded the Spanish conquest.

They traditionally include marigold flowers, candles and offerings of bread and other food, all believed in folk tradition to attract the spirits of the dead, as well as photographs, drawings and objects recalling the memory of the dead. Colored papel picado (cut paper) and decorated skulls also are parts of many ofrendas.

Linares, who has worked on similar ofrendas for the Mayborn Museum for its Hispanic Heritage Month observances, said both Dia de los Muertos and an ofrenda are shadowed by the thought of death, but that, in turn, deepens an appreciation of life. I feel like this holiday were talking about death, but its really about life, a life shared with our loved ones and others, he said.

The Waco Memorial Funeral Home ofrenda has photographs of more than a dozen people and beloved pets who have died, and whose families had provided their picture for the ofrenda. Valdivia said response to the ofrenda was such that it had to expand to accommodate the photos.

The funeral home counselor thought for years about having an ofrenda as a way for families to remember their loved ones and its realization has been gratifying. The death of an older brother decades ago so affected him that he changed his career from law to mortuary science and funeral homes as a way of understanding it and helping others to do so, he said.

The Centex Hispanic Chamber of Commerce suggested Rivera as a local artist who might want to participate and he did, painting several Catrinas on canvas panels hanging in and outside the ofrenda room with his painting of La Llorona (the Crying Woman) of Mexican folklore.

As usual, his work carries his distinctive touch. His La Llorona is in a wooden frame assembled from Brazos River driftwood while his Catrinas, the dressed, skeletal women of Dia de los Muertos art, have fleshed-out faces and roses, not traditional marigolds, to connect viewers with life and reality, he said.

The ofrenda and accompanying art will be up during the homes regular hours through Nov. 2, when there will be a special service and candlelight vigil in the funeral homes chapel, Valdivia said.

Traveling Ofrenda

A more established public ofrenda marks its 13th year with the Traveling Ofrenda created by Waco artists Rocio Ramirez-Landoll and Diane Torres going up again this weekend at the corner of Dallas and Tyler Streets in East Waco. The elaborate ofrenda, also built on multiple levels, is full of cultural and folkloric references and last year included a skeletal mariachi band.

This years ofrenda will feature pieces from Stitches for Love, Reconciliation and Remembrance, an embroidery project that Ramirez-Landoll led with several area women.

Activities connected with the ofrenda include Aztec dancing from Fort Worths Ballet Folklorico Quetzal at 6 p.m. Sunday and a screening of the movie Coco at 7 p.m. Nov. 2. Candles in the ofrenda will be lit at 6:30 p.m. nightly during its run from Sunday through Nov. 5. Admission is free.
AUSTIN  The Texas Supreme Court on Wednesday weighed religious liberty concerns and the right to gay marriage as it took up a McLennan County judges challenge to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

The high court heard arguments in the judicial review of Justice of the Peace Dianne Hensleys lawsuit against the commission, which issued her a warning because of her decision to marry only opposite-sex couples.

With eight of the nine justices present, the court discussed numerous issues stemming from the case, such as the role of state agencies and courts in interpreting the law, and the tension between constitutional protections.

A Waco justice of the peace, Hensley has argued since at least 2017 that she has a religious exemption from performing same-sex weddings, because of what she previously described as her Bible-believing conscience.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2015 that states were required to license same-sex marriage. In August 2016, Hensley began conducting weddings for opposite-sex but not same-sex couples.

She continued until November 2019, when the judicial conduct commission issued a public warning that such conduct casts doubt on her capacity to act impartially to persons appearing before her as a judge due to the persons sexual orientation.

The commission said Hensley violated the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct, which states, A judge shall conduct all of the judges extra-judicial activities so that they do not cast reasonable doubt on the judges capacity to act impartially as a judge.

Since the commissions warning Hensley has not presided over any weddings in her court. She was reelected without opposition last year.

Hensley declined to follow the commissions statutory appeal process and chose instead in December 2019 to sue the commission in state district court, with the backing of a Plano-based conservative Christian organization, First Liberty Institute.

A state district court in Travis County dismissed the suit on jurisdictional grounds and an appellate court affirmed.

Hensleys attorney, Jonathan Mitchell, told justices Wednesday that she sued the commission under the Texas Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1999 rather than pursue the statutory appeal process, which she said did not offer the relief she sought.

The statutory process could reverse the commissions warning, but Hensley sought class-action relief to allow any justice of the peace to opt out of officiating at same-sex weddings. She also sought $10,000 in damages and a declaratory judgment that the commission and its members violated her religious rights.

As Mitchell was citing the reasons for filing suit, Justice Jeff Boyd cut him off to ask whether Hensleys religious beliefs require her to perform weddings. Mitchell said no, sparking a wide-ranging discussion among the justices and attorneys.

The justices asked Mitchell whether the religious exemption Hensley seeks should apply to interracial marriage.

Mitchell said no, because statutes forbid wedding discrimination on basis of race, creed or color.

Justice Brett Busby asked whether the trial court cited the religious freedom act in its decision. Mitchell said no.

The stated purpose of the Supreme Courts judicial review was to determine whether Hensleys lawsuit was a prohibited collateral attack on the commissions warning. But the justices took up their prerogative to expand their questions to other matters of constitutionality and interpretation of the law.

Justice John Devine asked Douglas Lang, an attorney representing the commission, about tensions between First Amendment protections for freedom of religion and 14th Amendment protections for gay marriage, which the U.S. Supreme Court cited in the 2015 ruling.

Is the commission the right place to determine these subtle interplays between the First and 14th amendments? Devine asked.

Lang said yes.

Justice Jimmy Blacklock asked Lang whether a judge who publicly endorsed opposite-sex marriage but not same-sex marriage could be sanctioned even without performing any weddings.

Lang replied that the commission would rather have judges do no weddings than marry only opposite-sex couples. He said the commission takes no issue with what a judge might say about weddings, but how a judge acts.

She has chosen to marry some folks and not others, Lang said. She has chosen to discriminate between some folks in the state of Texas, in favor of other people, and it flies in the face of impartiality.

Boyd asked Lang whether the Texas Supreme Court should interpret and rule on the canons of the code it promulgates. Lang said the commission should handle interpreting the canons of the code of judicial conduct.

Mitchell also said Hensleys lost income from not performing weddings constituted a substantial burden on her free exercise of religion. Boyd offered a counterexample that he could not become a part-time consultant for a policy institute. Chief Justice Nathan Hecht said judges and justices give up certain kinds of income by taking the office of judge.

A case of this complexity normally requires at least two months for the justices to issue a ruling. The Texas Supreme Court almost always issues rulings for all the cases it has heard before the end of its term on June 30.
The city of Waco is considering changes to its development and design standards in the face of failing, unsafe and unsustainable infrastructure, an effort meant to minimize overall life cycle costs to the city.

The new criteria could include increased requirements for parkland dedication, road durability and sidewalks, which could significantly increase costs for developers while decreasing long-term maintenance and repair costs.

Parks and Recreation Director Jonathan Cook opened a presentation to the city council last week and said proper design guides for parks and other infrastructure are the key step in guiding sustainable development that would stand the test of time, decrease maintenance costs over time and align with the council and communitys needs. Residents currently shoulder the financial burden of repairs to infrastructure due to insufficient design standards, and the standards themselves are unclear and difficult to administer.

Parks

From a parks perspective, Cook said the current city visioning plan, formalized in 2016, suggests creation of a parkland dedication ordinance that could fund new parks.

The citys current subdivision ordinance allows the city council to require up to 5% of a subdivisions area to be dedicated for recreation. Cook suggested strengthening the dedication requirement and offering a fee in lieu of land dedication, with an amount determined per housing unit based on needed park improvements around the city.

For example, the city of Temple requires 1 acre dedicated per 133 dwelling units, or a fee of $225 per unit.

Sidewalks

Sidewalks are another issue, Public Works Director Amy Burlarley-Hyland said, with a survey conducted earlier this year by the company Fugro finding that bringing all poorly rated sidewalks in the city to a safe, usable standard could be a $96 million investment.

Currently, Waco only requires sidewalks to be built along both sides of arterial and collector roads and along one side of neighborhood collectors, leaving many streets completely without sidewalks. The gap in sidewalks represents a $57 million investment, she said.

Burlarley-Hyland proposed a requirement for sidewalks on both sides of all streets, which is what Denton, Plano, San Antonio and many other large cities in Texas require. With the average cost of about $25 per linear foot at the very low end, just a half-mile stretch of sidewalk could cost a developer at least $66,000.

Streets

Current street design criteria are inadequate to provide drainage, unsafe for pedestrians and allow for unsustainable street design, which taxpayers pay for in the long run through maintenance costs, Burlarley-Hyland said.

The city currently employs no criteria for drainage, creating cul-de-sacs with water ponding in them, she said.

We end up with sections of street that hold water and new driveways and sidewalks  that the citys going to have to go back and fix at some point in the future, Burlarley-Hyland said.

She said many streets are built too narrow to provide parking on both sides, and many have curbs and gutters that suffer from upheaval or settling. Especially on streets with no sidewalks, there is no safe place for pedestrians pushing strollers or cyclists to travel, Burlarley-Hyland said.

The burden of streets built with design lives that are too short has also built up maintenance costs, representing $1.2 billion in need that we have for all of these roads to get them up to current standards, she said. The citys street budget is already significant, but savings could be accomplished if longer lasting design and construction criteria are enforced, she said.

Burlarley-Hyland suggested shifting from the current standard of a 20-year design life for roads to a 50-year design life. Although the upfront cost of materials and design may be greater for more durable streets, the cost over time to maintain and reconstruct those roads would be reduced significantly, she said.

You are going to have to do maintenance along the way to your 50-year design, which has some cost, but its not nearly as expensive as the reconstruction with the 20-year design, she said.  That gap at the end there becomes quite incredible once you get up to the 50-year design life of the road.

Stormwater

The citys storm drainage design manual dates back to 1959, with slight updates from 2013. However, new policy is needed to protect public health, prevent harm from flooding and preserve the environment, including Lake Waco, which can take damage to its capacity and water quality from storm runoff.

Burlarley-Hyland presented several examples of insufficient stormwater management, including subdivisions and neighborhoods built in the last 10 years where streets become so flooded the water engulfs cars and mailboxes. The city even had to buy a house on Granada Drive in China Spring where water flooded in through the front door and out the back door, a $270,000 job, she said.

The city recently updated its Federal Emergency Management Agency Flood Map, finding that some new houses have been built in areas now considered to be flood plains. Without criteria prohibiting lot-to-lot drainage, neighbors bear the burden of runoff from new houses onto their property, Burlarley-Hyland said.

Taxpayers should not have to shoulder the burden of fixing flooding issues that we could have prevented by building it differently when we first built it, she said.

Wacos current stormwater criteria calls for a five-year design, which is meant to handle a flood of a magnitude that has a 20% chance of occurring in any given year. Burlarley-Hyland proposed an increase to a 25-year design, which is meant to handle floods of magnitudes with only a 4% chance of occurring each year.

Austin, Fort Worth and San Antonio each have a 25-year design requirement, while Wichita Falls, Denton and Dallas require a 100-year design that protects against floods of magnitudes with only a 1% chance of occurring.

Playing fair

Council Member Jim Holmes said this week that when he joined the city council seven years ago, less than 30% of roads and sidewalks were in good condition. Over the years a large amount of the citys tax-fueled general fund budget has been put toward deferred maintenance, but keeping standards the same will only raise the cost in the future.

Holmes said the city must strike a balance between the useful life and durability of infrastructure and immediate and latent costs. Either the price can be paid upfront with improved standards, or the cost can be incurred later by residents, he said.

However, the issue is a double-edged sword, as the burden falls to the development community who build the city and its tax base, Holmes said. Those increased costs to develop would eventually be passed on to consumers.

He said it will be critical to listen to developers and builders concerns with increased costs as the city finds a path to reasonable and effective guidelines.

Local custom homebuilder Steve Sorrells agreed that developers need to have a seat at the table to make things last. He said it is hard to make housing more affordable by making it more expensive.

City staff anticipates presenting ordinances and amendments to council early next year.
The Heart of Texas Behavioral Health Networks Diversion Center opened its doors to visitors Thursday, with several of the events speakers focusing on unity against poor mental health outcomes.

The $9.7 million, 27,500-square-foot facility sits next to the networks administrative campus on Imperial Drive and will serve as a haven for people struggling with mental health crises. The facility is meant to take the burden off of law enforcement and emergency room staff who often are not equipped to deal with acute mental health crises, and help patients on a path back to stability.

The facility also houses a 3,000-square-foot Waco Family Medicine clinic, which should open to the public next month.

Former Rapoport Foundation director Tom Stanton; Daniel Thompson, executive director of the Behavioral Health Network; Waco Police Chief Sheryl Victorian; and Matt Meadors, CEO of the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce, were among several speakers Thursday who poured out their support for the project.

Network Board Chair Dennis Wilson kicked off the ribbon cutting ceremony by recognizing several key players in the effort, including Waco City Council and staff, McLennan County staff and commissioners and the networks board of trustees.

He also recognized Dean Mayberry, the organizations former executive director of 30 years, former executive director Barbara Tate and 30-year board member Peter Kultgen, who each provided insight for the project long before it ever came to fruition.

I dont think you really understand the importance of community support until you get into the business that were in and its critical that  we work together as a team, Wilson said.

Wilson thanked Intrepid Development Group, RBDR Architects and Built Wright Construction for their work on the project, as well as the Meadows Foundation, Cooper Foundation, Waco Foundation, Jim and Deborah Peevey and the Waco Family Medicine Foundation for their support.

This has been a project that everybody has been included in and our staff members have done a great job bringing the idea forward that can benefit them and the environment they work in to provide the services that we desperately need in our community, he said.

McLennan County Judge Scott Felton said the community felt the true weight of the COVID-19 pandemic through its mental health outcomes. He said the county dedicated a portion of its federal American Rescue Plan Act funding allotted during the pandemic to the Diversion Center project. The city of Waco also dedicated American Rescue Plan funding to the center.

I think if the federal government and state government all saw the urgency in mental health since the beginning of COVID wed be in much better shape, he said.

Felton said the pandemic hit us in the pocket book and caused issues for law enforcement and the county jail, which is where a lot of people experiencing mental health difficulties end up.

Part of the mission of the Diversion Center is to offer a place for people who have committed offenses and are struggling mentally to go that would keep them out of jail or emergency rooms, freeing up those resources for when they are truly needed. People who are struggling with mental health are more likely to offend again and return to jail, a revolving door, Felton said, without being given the right tools to cope and succeed.

We want to be part of the solution and I think our community members and our taxpayers want to do the same thing, Felton said.  The idea, concept came up that there has to be something different than what we have now, one more piece in the puzzle to be able to have early, effective intervention.

Waco Family Medicine CEO Dr. Jackson Griggs asked attendees to imagine the feeling of their heart racing, as if they heard an alarming sound in the middle of the night, or intense grief, as if a family member had just passed away. Then, he asked them to imagine experiencing those kinds of raw, painful, disorienting emotions amplified 100 times and asked how someone could make rational decisions in that state of mind.

While we think about the very, very important economic reasons for a Diversion Center like this, lets not lose sight of the humanity that is suffering that this facility is going to aid, Griggs said.

He said half of all Americans will have a diagnosable mental health condition in their lives, and 25% of Americans right now have a diagnosable condition. Griggs said it takes someone trained in understanding the nuanced acute phase of mental health lapses to know how to help someone who is not in the perfect state of mind, the kind of care the Diversion Center will be prepared to provide.

It takes a spirit of hospitality to host people who are in crisis and to create a safe space for them and to help them bridge that crisis to a safe place of stability, he said.

Waco City Council Member Josh Borderud, who also serves as vice chair of the networks board, said the center will serve a critical role as the Ascension Providence DePaul Center, which offers inpatient and outpatient mental health services, prepares to close by the end of the year.

This Diversion Center will allow our health care systems to better treat those in mental health crisis, Borderud said. It will allow our law enforcement to better deal with actual public safety concerns and not become mental health treatment providers, as they often are.
The assessed value of some low-income housing in Lancaster County has skyrocketed  more than 500% in some cases  raising questions about the constitutionality of a state law and creating a situation developers say threatens the viability of affordable housing projects.

The issue, which involves housing projects built using federal low-income housing tax credits, has pitted affordable housing advocates against the Lancaster County Assessors Office and begs two questions: Is assessing low-income housing differently than other property needed to make such projects feasible or does doing so violate the state Constitution?

Developers of low-income housing say the way the Lancaster County Assessors office chose to value the property this year  using a market rate approach instead of an income-based model set out in state law  will be the death knell of such projects.

Jake Hoppe, managing partner of Hoppe Development, said it could force existing properties into insolvency and could kill new projects  including a recently announced affordable housing project his company is spearheading south of downtown.

The absurdity of this is it could be forcing (these projects) into a market rate, he said.

George Achola, vice president and general counsel of Burlington Capital, which owns and manages veterans housing at Lincolns new Victory Park, said theyre trying to serve a public purpose, by making sure veterans have homes, and the county taking issue with a law thats been in effect for nearly a decade makes it much more difficult.

I really wish they would have thought that through before taking action, he said. I think this is an ill-conceived action on the part of the county.

Hoppe said the situation really jeopardizes the ability to do affordable housing in Lincoln and in a broader sense its counter to all the efforts happening statewide to enhance affordable housing.

But the assessors office said using the formula required by a 2015 state law resulted in some of those low-income properties having an assessed value of zero or even a negative value  which would mean they pay no property taxes, pushing the burden onto others.

That law, they argue, violates the constitutional requirement that properties be valued uniformly and proportionately at their actual value and allows preferential treatment for just one kind of property.

The difference in values is particularly striking in a market where property values increased an average of nearly 23% and similar market-rate apartment complexes in particular have seen steep increases in recent years, said Lancaster County Assessor Dan Nolte.

Phil Hughes, an appraiser in the assessors office, said this isnt just Lancaster Countys problem.

This is a statewide issue looked at by every county in the state, he said.

Nolte said the issue needs to be addressed by the Legislature  and the Lancaster County Board has made addressing problems with the 2015 law its top legislative priority for the coming session.

Sean Flowerday, vice chairman of the Lancaster County Board, said theres a coalition looking for a legislative solution that will satisfy the constitutional questions and still work for affordable housing  which remains a priority for county commissioners.

The simplest thing we need is a legislative fix. The old legislation didnt work. Theres constitutional issues with it. Properties were coming in with zero value. Everything has value. It just doesnt make sense.

The goal, he said, was never to make affordable housing more expensive.

We truly want affordable housing to work, but it has to work with the constitution, he said.

Several affordable housing advocates said they wish the county had contacted them to work together to find a solution.

Instead theyve just kind of dropped a bomb on all affordable housing projects in town and on future projects, said Chris Lamberty, executive director of Lincoln Housing Authority.

Brent Williams, president of Excel Development Group in Lincoln, said there are solutions out there. In Iowa, for example, assessors use a three-year rolling average of expenses and income to avoid the large swings.

But the case is now in the hands of the Nebraska Court of Appeals, though the Supreme Court could hear the case because of the constitutional question.

A court ruling would have statewide implications.

Heres how it got there: Earlier this year, the Lancaster County Assessors Office asked the Nebraska Tax Equalization and Review Commission for guidance on 21 low-income properties. They include various projects across the city, including those by private developers and those run by City Impact, Catholic Social Services, the Peoples City Mission and veterans housing in the new Victory Park.

In most cases, the formula set out in state law resulted in reduced values for 2023  including three whose values ranging from several hundred thousand to over $1 million in 2022 were reduced to zero this year, according to data provided by the county assessor. When the county used the market approach, those values ballooned to between $2.8 million to $11.5 million.

An affordable housing project called Creekside Village developed by the Hoppes in 2011 is among those involved in the appeal. The project includes duplexes and apartments and Centerpointe offers services to residents, Jake Hoppe said. Rents are $825 for a two-bedroom apartment. The rent the county used in its assessment was $1,185.

Together, all the properties that make up Creekside Village were valued at $2.3 million in 2022. Using the method set out in state law for low-income properties, the value decreased to about $1.9 million this year. When the county assessors office used a market rate approach, the total value of the properties increased to $14 million.

Theyre just throwing out (financial information) weve sent them, so were evaluating what we do, Hoppe said. At a very basic level, a five-time increase in property taxes will make our net operating income negative, which will drive this into insolvency.

Oatfield and Rose Whitney of Denver who are among owners of The Lexington, an assisted living facility in Lincoln that serves low-income clients, are under Medicaid restrictions as well as rent restrictions.

Their property values went from $4.5 million to $19.6 million this year. At the lower value, he said, they paid about $70,000 in property taxes. If the tax rate stayed the same unlikely  that would balloon to $350,000, he said.

Thats more than our income, he said.

But the state Tax Equalization and Review Commission agreed with the county and ruled that the assessor could use a different approach because using the method set out in statute would create inequitable values.

Using actual expenses of individual properties resulted in large swings in value from year to year, the commission ruled, creating an inequitable tax burden borne by other property owners.

Initially, the assessor came up with a market value using a model of average expenses and income of all Section 42 housing, but based on testimony at the Tax Equalization and Review Commission hearing, the county felt it had to use a market rate approach, said Hughes, with the assessors office.

Developers appealed to the Nebraska Court of Appeals, and a number of civic and affordable housing organizations and nonprofits filed a brief in support.

The organizations include the Lincoln Housing Authority, the Lincoln Community Foundation, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, the Nebraska Housing Developers Association, the Nebraska Housing Resource and Neighborworks Lincoln.

Lancaster County has asked the high court to find the law violates the uniformity clause of the state constitution because it compels assessors to use a different standard than is used for all other property in the state. The only other exception is for agricultural land, which is valued at 75% of actual value  which is set out in the Constitution.

The Nebraska Constitutional requirement that property values be uniform and proportional is the proper guiding principle that cannot be forgotten and cannot be legislated around, the county attorneys brief says. Benevolent ideas (around the tax credits) do not absolve Lancaster County or this court from constitutional obligations.

The property at issue is called Section 42 housing, which is housing developed using federal low-income housing tax credits.

The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority administers the tax credits to developers involved in low-income housing projects through a competitive process, and the developer awarded the tax credits sells them to an investor and uses the proceeds to help pay for the project.

Generally, state law allows assessors to value property using several different processes, and many assessors use a market or sales approach  basing the value off of sales of comparable properties. They can also use an income method, by creating a model based on typical income and typical expenses, according to a county attorneys brief filed in the appeal.

The 2015 law on Section 42 housing, however, says assessors should use actual income and expenses of individual properties and a capitalization rate determined by a state committee. The law also says the tax credits cant be counted as income.

Developers who get tax credits enter into whats called a Land Use Restriction Agreement, which restricts rents and residents income and can include additional restrictions such as providing specific amenities or supportive services to residents. Those agreements can last 30 or more years and they travel with the property  so if a landowner sells the property, the restrictions go to the new owner.

Those restriction agreements are central to the case.

Developers argue they must be taken into account when valuing the property because buyers would not pay as much for property where the rent is restricted. The county argues they are voluntary restrictions landowners enter into willingly and arent compulsory, as are zoning or easement restrictions.

Using the same reasoning, the county attorneys brief argues, a property owner with a mortgage would have a compelling argument that the market value of their home is only the equity they have in it.

The county also argues if the restriction agreements are considered as part of the assessment process, so should the proceeds from the tax credits.

But the affordable housing advocates argue that in passing the law eight years ago the Legislature found that safe affordable housing was a compelling state need fulfilled by the rent-restricted projects.

The law, the brief said, created uniformity for Section 42 housing because before that, assessors were using different methods that had drastically different results. The law, the brief said, results in the most accurate value of such properties.

Without this uniformity, Nebraskas existing affordable housing projects will be in jeopardy because they do not have sufficient profit margins to cover unpredictable spikes in property taxes and future development will be rendered infeasible because lenders and syndicators will not fund projects absent a showing that they will cash flow, the affordable housing advocates argued in their brief.

The brief quotes heavily from various local and statewide housing studies including Lincolns recently adopted Affordable Housing Coordinated Action Plan, which says Lincoln and Lancaster County are suffering from a lack of available affordable housing.

Several factors  everything from construction and property costs to unpredictable property taxes  are contributing to a decline in the number of Section 42 housing projects in Lincoln, the brief says.

For such low-income tax-credit programs to continue, the rewards for developers and investors must outweigh the risks, affordable housing advocates argue in the court brief.

Access to safe, decent and affordable housing is a compelling state interest that could be in jeopardy depending upon the outcome of this case. the brief says.

Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in Nebraska Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in Nebraska #50. Hershey #49. Elsie #48. Murdock #47. Fort Calhoun #46. Lyons #45. Ames #44. Western #43. Craig #42. Niobrara #41. South Sioux City #40. Colon #39. Giltner #38. Adams #37. Ohiowa #36. Steinauer #35. De Witt #34. La Vista #33. Springfield #32. Clarkson #31. Pierce #30. Johnson #29. Bellevue #28. Arlington #27. Martell #26. Elmwood #25. Malmo #24. Monroe #23. Chapman #22. Alvo #21. Garland #20. Linwood #19. Dixon #18. Lemoyne #17. Brady #16. Malcolm #15. Kennard #14. Liberty #13. Pleasant Dale #12. Nickerson #11. Ewing #10. North Bend #9. Chambers #8. Miller #7. Hubbard #6. Greenwood #5. Creston #4. Elwood #3. Herman #2. Pleasanton #1. Amherst
PRESS RELEASE

An icon of World War II, the hand-painted Bomber Jackets, known more formally as the Type A-2 Flying Jacket, are some of the most celebrated artifacts of the period. Designed at first as protective clothing for aircrews, the jackets became a status symbol, an opportunity to exercise creativity in a sea of green clothing, and a way to chronicle wartime feats of courage and bravery.

Photographer John Slemp has sought to catalog those that have survived , traveling the nation, and visiting museums and attics alike. Bomber Jackets: The Painted Jacket Art of World War II represents the first time the pieces have been shown in an exhibition in a museum, and while there is more to be seen in his book, the exhibition format allows visitors to enjoy the jackets in a larger-than-life immersive space.

On November 18, 2023, The Military Aviation Museum will inaugurate a special exhibition exploring these wartime masterpieces. A member preview will be followed by general access (included with Museum Admission) to a ribbon cutting, along with remarks from the exhibition development team. The opening festivities will also include a live artist painting on a reproduction A-2 Jacket.

Exhibit Opening Activities

All Day  Live Jacket Painting with Chad Hill

Chad Hill, known for his work painting nose art on WWII Warbirds, will be recreating the process of painting on a jacket throughout the day. Check in regularly to see how this special piece of artwork commemorating the 100th Bomb Group progresses.

All Day  Childrens Art Tables

Want to design your own jacket? We have some blank jacket outlines on paper that will let the kids rough-out their own designs, and then color them in!

9:00 AM  10:00 AM Exclusive Member Preview

Light snacks, coffee, and juice are provided with exclusive early access to the exhibition space. John Slemp will be on hand to meet and greet while showcasing the pieces in the gallery. Members must register to attend and choose the Member Preview Ticket Add-On.

10:00 AM  10:15 AM  Exhibit Introduction with the Exhibit Design Team

10:15 AM  Ribbon Cutting with the Prescott Family

10:20 AM  Exhibit Open, Book Signing

With the exhibit now open, we welcome all guests to tour the space. John Slemp will be available to sign copies of his book Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art (available for purchase in the Museum Gift Shop)

1:30 PM  Photography Workshop  Photograph a Painted Jacket

Join John Slemp for a photography workshop showing how each of the jackets were captured in all their glory. Space is limited, so please select the Photography Workshop Ticket Add-On to reserve your space in this workshop.

2:00 PM  Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art with John Slemp

(Author Presentation)

A look behind the scenes at the effort to catalog the jackets, and to produce the magnificent book that shares the jackets and the stories of their wartime owners. The presentation includes tips on how to care for a jacket you might have found! Hear the story of how the journey began, of how the jackets were found, and what unique opportunities Slemp had to connect with veterans in the final years of their lives  more than 80 years on from World War II.
By Ugo Vicenzi

The Aeronautica Militare italiana (AMI) is promoting aviation culture and interest in the Air Force with Aeronautic Culture Training courses, specifically geared toward secondary school students. Every year, personnel of the 60 Stormo (60th Wing) from Guidonia, near Rome, visit five regions across Italy, bringing military history docents and pilots to train groups of 180 students in each session. Guidonia is a historic site and very important for Italian Air Force heritage. In fact, during the pre-war period it hosted the historical department of the Air Force and now is the site of the Selection Center for new Air Force airmen.

Students attend a fully immersive course where subjects include generic aviation, basic aeronautical engineering principals, instruments familiarization, flight safety, meteorology, engines, and navigation. Lessons are also mixed with flights on the SIAI 208M of the 60 Stormo. The objective of these courses are to get students interested in aviation, and at the same time to attract them to the Air Force as possible future recruits. At the end of the first week there is a first evaluation, after which the best students will have the option to fly in the SIAI 208M as copilots. These chosen students will be allowed to perform basic maneuvers under the supervision of the instructor, while the other students will be passengers on the flights.

The instructors try to promote partnership between students and familiarization with airplanes, while avoiding any harsh competition. Is there still competition? Yes, there are awards at the end of every course. In fact, the top two students of each course are sent to Guidonia for a full seaplane training, where at the end of the program they receive the coveted glider license. For students this is a unique chance to experience the world of flight by engaging in hands-on sessions. For the AMI it is a chance to share knowledge about the values of its mission and attract new prospects for the Air Force.

The airplanes used are SIAI-S208M, military designation U-208A. It is a militarized version of the light utility and trainer airplane that first flew in 1967. An order of fourty-five airplanes were first ordered by Aeronautica Militare back in 1967 for liaison and banner towing missions. About twenty are still in service at 60 Stormo. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Italian Air Force a few airplanes were painted with special color schemes. One in particular was dedicated to Arturo Ferrarin, one of the greatest aviators in Italian history, author of the famous Roma to Tokyo raid in 1920.

These images depict the last course for 2023 at the Valbrembo airport, near Bergamo in northern Italy.
WATERLOO  Authorities have charged a Waterloo man with murder in the 2022 death of his girlfriend.

Lamarcus Lemario Martez Williams, 34, was immediately arrested for felony domestic assault after Rebecca Taylor, also known as Rebecca Todd, was found unresponsive in their Oleson Road home and later died.

On Tuesday, police added a charge of second-degree murder in the case. Bond for the new charge was set at $1 million.

Taylor was 39.

According to court records, Todd called 911 around 11 p.m. Nov. 30 and claimed Williams was trying to stab her at their home at 1151 Oleson Road. Dispatchers could hear Williams yelling in the background as Taylor screamed for him to leave her alone, records state.

Officers arrived and looked through a window, spotting Taylor on the floor. Williams barricaded the door and wouldnt allow them to enter.

Police eventually forced their way inside and began CPR until paramedics arrived. She died several days later.

Williams told police he punched Taylor in the head and pushed her during an argument. He said her head hit a dresser in the bedroom, according to court records.

At the police station, Williams allegedly pushed a detective and ran out of the building in an attempt to escape, according to court records. He was captured when he fell down a few blocks away.

Second-degree murder is punishable by up to 50 years in prison upon conviction.

This wasnt the first time Williams allegedly assaulted Taylor. In April 2022, he was arrested after allegedly punching her in the head and strangling her while holding a knife, according to court records. He was placed on probation for the incident and a restraining order was lifted.

He also has a conviction for allegedly threatening to burn down another womans home in September 2021.

Safest cities in America 2023: Violent crime rate increases drive per capita cost of crime Safest cities in America 2023: Violent crime rate increases drive per capita cost of crime The 15 Safest Cities in America The 15 Most Dangerous Cities Methodology
WATERLOO  The Iowa Court of Appeals has vacated restitution in the case of a Waterloo woman who was convicted of lesser charges in a 2020 shooting that claimed the life of her friend.

Lasondra Annette Johnson had been charged with murder for allegedly firing a single shot following a fight with Jada Young-Mills and others. Young-Mills died of a gunshot wound to the back.

Following a trial, jurors found Johnson guilty of assault causing serious injury. She was sentenced to up to five years in prison and ordered to pay $150,000 in restitution to Young-Mills estate.

Johnson challenged the sentence and verdict and following the conviction the Iowa Supreme Court in another case found that restitution cant be ordered unless a jury found that a defendants acts caused the death.

In a ruling issued Wednesday, the Iowa Court of Appeals ruled that principle applied in Johnsons case and noted she wasnt convicted of a homicide felony.

In its ruling, the Court of Appeals also turned down Johnsons request for a new trial based on the wording of jury instructions and upheld her prison sentence on the assault charge.

Photos; LaSondra Johnson trial 091521jr-johnson-trial-4 091521jr-johnson-trial-5 091521jr-johnson-trial-2 091521jr-johnson-trial-3 091521jr-johnson-trial-1 091621jr-johnson-trial-1 091621jr-johnson-trial-a Jada Young-Mills 091721jr-johnson-trial-4 091721jr-johnson-trial-2 091721jr-johnson-trial-3 091721jr-johnson-trial-1 092021jr-johnson-trial-2 092021jr-johnson-trial-1 092221jr-johnson-trial-1 092221jr-johnson-trial-2 092221jr-johnson-trial-3 092721jr-johnson-verdict-1 092721jr-johnson-verdict-2 121321jr-johnson-sentencing-2 121321jr-johnson-sentencing-3 121321jr-johnson-sentencing-4 121321jr-johnson-sentencing-5 121321jr-johnson-sentencing-1
WATERLOO  Police arrested a sex offender on weapons charges after he was found carrying a gun on Tuesday.

According to court records, officers approached Jeffery Ryan Wilson, 36, of Oelwein, in the 300 block of Webster Street around 10:10 p.m. because he had an outstanding warrant out of Hamilton County.

Wilson allegedly ran from police, crossing a street before he was tackled to the ground. He then struggled and dug at his waistband, according to police.

Officers found a .380-caliber Ruger pistol in his pants pocket. He told officers the handgun belonged to his wife, records state.

Wilson, who has also lived in Waterloo and Cedar Falls in the past, is barred from handling firearms because of a 2007 felony drug conviction and a 2016 conviction for violating sex offender registration requirements.

Police arrested Wilson for felon in possession of a firearm and interference while armed. Bond was set at $10,000.

9 serial killers with ties to Iowa 1965 John Wayne Gacy Robert Hansen Robert Ben Rhoades Randy Steven Kraft - 1989 Gayno Gilbert Smith Jake Bird Robert Spangler Charles Ray Hatcher Carroll Edward Cole
WATERLOO  Jurors have acquitted a Waterloo man accused of being the driver in an August robbery that erupted into a gunfight.

When the shooting stopped, one of the alleged robbers was left with a gunshot wound to the head and three of his alleged accomplices were arrested for robbery.

Jurors deliberated Tuesday afternoon and Monday morning before finding 30-year-old Larry Earl Lorondez Phillips not guilty of first-degree robbery.

Prosecutors claimed Phillips aided and abetted Eric Darnail Hayes Jr., Deondre Jermaine Seals, both 17, and Aundaris Reed, 28, in a plan to rob two people when they arrived on Mohawk Street to sell two handguns (the transaction had originally been described as a marijuana deal in court records).

Police alleged Phillips drove the robbers to the scene and waited about a block away behind One City United Church on Independence Avenue.

He knows whats going on. He knows whats going to happen, Prosecutor Brad Walz told jurors during closing arguments on Monday. This was a planned robbery. The defendant knows about it. The defendant actively participated.

Seals was also about a block away, acting as a lookout in case police pulled up.

Things didnt go according to plan.

As Hayes and Reed approached the victims vehicle with guns, gunfire broke out and the vehicle took off. Seals also squeezed off about five 9 mm rounds from his position.

Bullets hit the fleeing vehicle and when officers arrived they found Reed on the ground with a gunshot wound to his head. When authorities moved him, they discovered a gun underneath him.

Phillips was on GPS monitoring for probation at the time of the shooting and Walz said investigators tracked his location near the scene.

Phillips took the stand in his own defense and said he wasnt involved in the incident.

He wasnt there, he didnt pull any guns, said defense attorney James Metcalf.

Metcalf said Seals, who testified and implicated Phillips as part of a plea deal with the state for a possible 15-year sentence, was merely looking out for his own interests.

Hayes was also charged and his trial is tentatively set for November.

Reed, who had allegedly skipped bail on an unrelated charge before the incident, survived the shooting. He was treated for his injuries but disappeared while in the hospital and is now at large, according to statements in court.

How to stay secure during a hotel stay TOSS THE KEY ENVELOPE IMMEDIATELY WHAT ABOUT MANUAL KEYS? MUM'S THE WORD TAKE MENTAL NOTES ON ARRIVAL IF YOU FEEL FOLLOWED A WORD ABOUT HOTEL SAFES GET THE HOTEL'S BUSINESS CARDS WHEN IN DOUBT, CALL THE FRONT DESK THE TAKEAWAY
WATERLOO  The sudden resignation of a Board of Education member leaves a vacancy to be filled either by appointment or special election.

Endya Johnson, vice president of the board, filed her resignation Friday, citing personal health concerns. Her resignation was accepted at the meeting Monday.

Board members, Waterloo Community Schools Superintendent Jared Smith and board secretary Pam Arndorfer had nothing but nice things to say about Johnson, praising her six years of service.

I learned so much from Endya and she was only on the board two years longer, at-large member Stacie Mills said. Immediately shes somebody you want to be your mentor.

President Sue Flynn said Johnson was a vital part of the board and brought a unique perspective.

Smith said a lot of his successes could be attributed to help from Johnson.

We talked through the good times and the tough times, he said. Endya always had great feedback.

With Johnsons spot open, the board will have to fill the position. She represented Director District 4, which covers northwest Waterloo. That term ends in 2025.

Unlike city council vacancies, the board can only appoint someone unless prompted by a petition from the public. The school board cannot ask for a special election to take place.

The appointment must be made within 30 days of the date the vacancy becomes known to the boards secretary.

The public can file for a petition up to 14 days after the publication of notice of intent to appoint in The Courier.

The petition must be signed by eligible voters equal to 30% of the number of voters at the last regular school board election. The turnout number for Waterloo school elections in 2021 was 11,423. Thirty percent of that number is 3,427 signatures.

If a petition is filed and accepted, candidates can file as soon as the notice of special election is received and the last day for filing would be 25 days before the election.

The special election needs to take place between 60 and 70 days of the vacancy, which would be near the end of December.

Flynn said since Johnson was the boards vice president, a new vice president will be appointed. After the Nov. 7 election a new president and vice president will be elected.

How the pandemic worsened teaching vacancies across the US How the pandemic worsened teaching vacancies across the US Certain teaching roles significantly more difficult to fill
CEDAR FALLS  The University of Northern Iowa is one of four institutions that will combat climate change as part of a $13.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation.

The grant funds a program led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks to help multiple communities respond to coastal erosion, flooding, permafrost thaw and other hazards attributed to climate change. The four years of funding, awarded this month, is part of the foundations Navigating the New Arctic program.

The funding supports ACTION, a project led by the Alaska Coastal Cooperative at UAF in collaboration with the rural coastal communities, the University of Northern Iowa, Arizona State University and the University of Texas El Paso. The groups acronym stands for Alaska Coastal Cooperative for Co-producing Transformative Ideas and Opportunities in the North.

This award is a culmination of years of hard work and effort by many people at UAF and beyond, including our community and institution partners, Alaska Coastal Cooperative Director Chris Maio said in a news release. It really is an amazing group of experts that weve brought together to contribute toward resilient coastal communities in the Arctic.

To effectively respond to a rapidly changing Arctic, this project will develop and implement an innovative approach to resilience action that identifies community priorities, advances applied convergence science and improves communication and synergy across multiple stakeholder groups, Maio said.

As a primary project partner, UNI will be engaged in the following projects tasks:

Identify community priorities for projecting coastal hazard risks.

Identify community needs to adapt infrastructure, including communication systems.

Integrate local knowledge with multi-level governance processes to allow for an effective response to a rapidly changing Arctic.

Develop place-specific models and forecasts of coastal change and community impacts and adaptation options

Document household-level impacts of multifaceted change on health and well being.

Increase knowledge exchange among communities and among scientists and community residents through various efforts.

UNI researchers will lead the project efforts in four communities in the Western Alaska and Aleutian Islands.

Photos: Cedar Falls volleyball vs. Waterloo West in regional final, Oct. 24
WATERLOO  Board of Education candidates addressed topics ranging from student engagement to teacher retention and parent involvement Tuesday during a forum sponsored by the Black Hawk County NAACP and the Black Hawk/Bremer League of Women Voters.

All five of the candidates running for four seats on the Waterloo Community Schools board in the Nov. 7 election participated. Two of them are running unopposed  incumbent Jesse Knight to retain his Director District 3 seat and a first-time candidate Jonathan Cox for Director District 2.

The three others are vying for two at-large positions. That includes two familiar faces seeking re-election, Lyle Schmitt and Stacie Mills, along with newcomer John Berry.

Student achievement was a central concern for the at-large candidates. For Berry, its key that parents and teachers work together to ensure success for students.

If you do not have parents on board with teachers then thats a problem, said the former CEO and executive director of the Tri-County Child & Family Development Council, which operates the Head Start program. We must be cognizant of the fact that there must be a robust partnership between the parent and the teacher. I believe that I bring the significant and qualified skill set to move on that by marrying my social work background and also my executive experience in high education.

Schmitt, a retired John Deere engineer and manager seeking his 10th term on the board, wants to ensure that all students are in the optimal learning environment. And, during his tenure on the board, he believes there has been steady progress on the goals of the district. Graduation rates improved more than 20 points from 2000 to 2020 going from 65% to 85%.

Mills, a substitute teacher seeking her second term on the board, said a main concern is student attendance issues but she also spoke about the efforts of the district. She wants to ensure that all Waterloo Schools buildings are treated with equity in terms of how education is delivered. Its important to her, as well, that good employees are retained.

Knight also voiced concerns about the districts employees. We need to do a much better job at retaining our teachers and supporting them, he said.

His highest priority as a board member is to work on the continued educational improvement of the students within the district. Knight mentioned that the graduation rates within the district have slipped a bit since the COVID-19 pandemic. District officials will have to continue working on getting those rates back to pre-pandemic levels, he said.

Part of those improvements for Cox relate to the teaching of reading, which he noted is fundamental to students belonging and engagement. Studies have shown when (students) have a good sense of reading at the fourth-grade level their behavior is better, he said. Cox works as the Trio coordinator for the University of Northern Iowa Center for Urban Education and has more than 30 years of experience in the education field.

He also spoke at length on the need for inclusion within the community and said that retention of students within district schools is important. Because of changes in state law, students have expanded options to open enroll into another school district or get state-funded educational savings accounts to attend private schools.

When a question about recent state laws pertaining to curriculum restrictions was presented during the forum, all five candidates said that they would follow the law. Mills noted that a committee is in place to review any books within two days that parents object to.

Who's teaching our kids? These 4 charts break down K-12 teachers by education level, race, and more Who's teaching our kids? These 4 charts break down K-12 teachers by education level, race, and more More than half of school teachers have earned a master's, making teachers among the most well-educated professionals The teaching profession is predominantly white, presenting potential disadvantages to minority students More than two-thirds of teachers are women; nearly 4 in 10 of all teachers have less than a decade of experience Salary increases steadily with experience, but after 20 years it plateaus
WATERLOO  There is still no end in sight for a project proposed by the sheriffs office almost two years ago.

The Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors discussed a potential evidence processing and storage facility again on Tuesday.

Supervisor Tom Little placed the topic on the agenda to decide if the board will make a final decision on whether to go forward with the project or not. Little motioned to approve the project.

Sheriff Tony Thompson came to the board in January 2022 after the county learned the current facility in downtown Waterloo lacks safety components such as running water, heating and air conditioning or proper ventilation. The proposed location would be at the countys training facility in Raymond.

Supervisor Dan Trelka said he spoke to Waterloo Police Chief Joe Leibold, who had said he would like to work with the sheriffs department to utilize the building as well. Trelka also said he spoke to Waterloo Councilmember Dave Boesen, who used to be a property technician for the police department, and Boesen identified three potential properties downtown that could house a new facility.

Thompson said the vision had always been to work with the Waterloo and Cedar Falls police departments because they share resources elsewhere.

Supervisor Chris Schwartz said supports the project but is worried the scaled back version wont properly serve the three entities.

The projects estimated cost originally was almost $2 million but the sheriffs department cut out some amenities to get it down to $1.2 million. Thompson said with the changes, the new facility would absolutely not be the building needed in the next decade.

A $2 million facility gets us to what we originally planned for, Thompson said. But scaling back 25% cuts into that, and thats the honest answer.

He said his department made the cuts to reach a happy medium to entice the board to get the building constructed. The cuts were made to the space that would have provided evidence storage. Thompson believes the Raymond facility is still the best option because it is shovel ready and wouldnt require any zoning changes, rather than retrofitting an existing building, which would likely be more expensive, he said.

Im trying to save the board the frustration, and quite frankly, the embarrassment its faced, Thompson said. Please listen to me when I tell you when we build it (for this specific purpose)  we will spend good money once.

Ultimately, no action was taken. Trelka said he plans to speak at a Waterloo City Council meeting to propose the facility to the council.

Schwartz said that he doesnt want to leave the sheriffs office hanging out there and reminded the board that it will begin budget sessions soon, hinting that the facility could be added into the fiscal year 2025 budget.

More projects seeking funding came to the board for the first time Tuesday. More than 20 county organizations applied for community services funding, which the board previously allocated $100,000 toward. The 22 requests totaled more than $700,000.

Requests range from $2,500 to $120,000. Larger proposals include a kitchen expansion and remodel for the Salvation Army of Waterloo/Cedar Falls for $120,000; a program to help with attendance and academic success through Project Learn for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Cedar Valley for $75,000; and sexual assault intervention services for the Riverview Center for $56,500.

The board decided to hear presentations from all of the organizations and decide on who receives the funding before the end of the year.

The board also approved:

A resolution to use American Rescue Plan Act funds for the jail security upgrades.

A submission of the proposed purchase of wall-mounted workstations at the Public Health Clinic to see if it can be purchased with ARPA funds.
CEDAR FALLS  Mayor Rob Green has vetoed a council majority-backed resolution to repeal the College Hill vision plan.

The mayor informed the City Council on Thursday, four days before the deadline and 10 days after councilmembers voted 4-3 on the resolution Oct. 16. That decision dismayed several stakeholders who spoke publicly on two occasions against rescinding the plan adopted in 2021 to guide future growth, development and improvements in an area people want to see revitalized.

The public speakers included University of Northern Iowa President Mark Nook and Hannah Crisman, president of the College Hill Partnership. Its Greens third veto during his time in office. The council has 30 days to override the veto, a move requiring a supermajority  five of the seven members if present at a public meeting.

In nearly four years as mayor, my philosophy has been that a mayor should use their veto power only when they genuinely believe that a proposed decision is detrimental to the communitys interests, threatens the democratic process or checks and balances, and when the issue is of significant importance; such an approach helps maintain trust, collaboration, and efficient governance while ensuring the veto is reserved for critical matters that align with the best interests of the community, Green wrote in a two-page correspondence to the seven-member council.

Councilmembers Daryl Kruse, Dave Sires, Susan deBuhr and Dustin Ganfield were the four supporting the resolution. The measure became a topic of discussion at recent candidate forums ahead of the Nov. 7 election.

Sires and deBuhr will not be on the council in 2024. Theyre not seeking reelection on Nov. 7, nor is Green or Councilmember Simon Harding. Crisman is running a campaign for Sires at-large seat against two others.

The council has a committee meeting scheduled Nov. 6 to discuss how to proceed with the vision plan.

The council majority was largely hung up on the scope of the plan they feel encompasses an area larger than what most people would call College Hill and needs the most help.

The vision plan covers a swath of territory south of 12th Street and north of Seerley Boulevard between Iowa Highway 57 and Hudson Road. A smaller subsection also exists south of University Avenue and the UNI campus.

The concern also stems from a feeling the plan gets the ball rolling on form-based code, a controversial zoning approach that was fought by the majority and had some property owners concerned when it was put in place downtown in 2021. The council voted to pause implementation of the plan and removed funding for new zoning initiatives.

Green cited the timing, stakeholder perception, efficacy, council control and the role of the plan as part of his rationale for the veto.

He expanded on each factor in his decision, ranging from the election around the corner and a fear relationships will be damaged to feelings the plan is not a zoning document  like some insist  and an argument the councils intent can be achieved without a repeal.

During both the Oct. 6 standing committee meeting and the Oct. 16 regular council meeting, I sensed a general desire (or at least willingness) for the council majority to focus College Hill redevelopment efforts on character areas, Green wrote.

This focus can easily be accommodated through a council resolution to the effect that a proposed College Hill Character District (and any zoning reforms) should only be for character areas.  The Character District could easily be expanded to include more of the surrounding residential areas later, if desired, he added.

The veto is Greens first since December last year when he used his mayoral authority to block a reduction in the council voting threshold from a five-member super-majority to a four-member simple majority for overriding Planning and Zoning Commission decisions on zoning code amendments.

It came as the same majority was attempting to adopt amendments to what was the new downtown zoning rules, although some will argue that wasnt the driving reason.

Form-based coding approach is based on traditional American town and city form and function  creating places that are inherently pedestrian-friendly and mixed-use. We operate under the guiding philosophy that the great neighborhoods, towns, and cities in America did not happen by accident  they were planned with a physical vision, according to Ferrell Madden, the consultant hired by the city to lead the vision plans crafting.

The plan, in its conclusion, states the community vision will lay the foundation for tailoring the citys new form-based regulations specifically to implement the College Hill vision plan. All zoning changes directly affect new construction and certain expansion projects.

Photos: Hurricane Otis deals devastating blow to Acapulco, Mexico
Its baaaackl!

Trick-or-treating will take place on Tuesday.

In both Waterloo and Cedar Falls, Beggars Night hours are from 6 to 8 p.m. Children should be accompanied by an adult. Residents who want to participate in handing out candy to ghouls, goblins, witches, Barbie and Ken, and other scary costumed-characters should turn their porch lights on.

Last year, Cedar Falls and other Cedar Valley communities held their trick-or-treating on a weekend rather than on Halloween.

Though the response from parents, teachers, and students was very positive for the Saturday night event (so I dont regret doing that last year), the rest of the Cedar Valley is sticking with Oct. 31. I would foresee an increased public safety risk and burden in doing a Beggars Night on a different night than the rest of the Cedar Valley, so Oct. 31 it is, Mayor Rob Green said in a news release.

Motorists should drive slowly through neighborhoods and children should carry glow sticks or flashlights along with their trick-or-treat bags. Halloween masks and makeup should allow for good vision.

The University of Northern Iowas American Chemical Society student chapter will host its annual Halloween House from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Friday on the second floor of the McCollum Science Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

Students will be performing Halloween-themed science demonstrations and supervising hands-on activities in rooms such as Pirates Cove, Frankensteins Lab, Haunted Harvest and Shadow Play. The hands-on activities are intended for children and costumes are encouraged. Children of all ages  along with the whole family  will find the science demonstrations entertaining and informative.

Halloween House is one of my favorite events of the year, and I would highly recommend coming to watch the magic of science! It also is completely put on by the science clubs at the university, which makes it even better, Megan Unger, co-president of the American Chemical Society student chapter, said in a news release.

On Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon, kids in Halloween costumes can trick-or-treat in downtown Waterloo. There will be games and activities, as well, sponsored by Main Street Waterloo.

On Tuesday, the Cedar Falls Downtown District will host trick-or-treating from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Merchants will be set up outside their stores, handing out candy and watching the parade of costumed kids and their parents strolling sidewalks in the district.

Photos: Trick or Treat in Downtown Waterloo 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-7 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-8 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-9 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-10 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-11 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-12 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-5 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-6 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-4 HAPPY HALLOWEEN 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-2 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-3 102922-nws-waterloo-trick-13 NewsVu: Photos: Trick or Treat in Downtown Waterloo
Jordan's king urges to stop conflict in Gaza during meeting with French president

Xinhua) 10:04, October 26, 2023

AMMAN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- King Abdullah II of Jordan on Wednesday said stopping the conflict in Gaza is an absolute necessity, during his meeting with visiting French President Emmanuel Macron in Jordan's capital Amman, according to a statement by Jordan's Royal Hashemite Court.

The two leaders looked into international efforts in pursuit of an end to the cycle of violence, while reaching a political horizon that ends the Israeli-Hamas conflict, guarantees security, and achieves just and comprehensive peace based on the two-state solution.

Warning deteriorations and regional repercussions of the escalation in Gaza, the king called on the international community to pressure Israel to stop the attacks, protect civilians, and end the siege on the strip.

The Jordanian leader reiterated his rejection of any attempts to displace or internally displace the Palestinians in Gaza.

He also warned of the deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the enclave, highlighting the importance of securing the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Macron arrived in Amman after holding talks on Tuesday with Israeli and Palestinian leaders.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
A group of Sauk County institutions and organizations are coming together for the third time in four years to bring awareness of the countys landscape and environment through film. The Conserve Sauk Film Festival will air 22 environmental-themed films, most of them locally produced, in five rooms at the Umhoefer Building at UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 4. Topics include farming and food production, wildlife preservation, Indigenous peoples and their relationship with the land, and restoration of the Baraboo River since the removal of dams. We are going to be featuring a lot of films that are based on conservation, said Melissa Schlupp, conservation manager for Sauk County Land Resources and Environment. It might be related to pollinators or water resources or forestry. The Conserve Sauk Film Festival was presented in 2019 and 2021. Schlupp said the event was planned for 2020 but was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers then decided to convert it into an event that takes place every other year. The scheduled films range in length from five to 80 minutes.

One of the films will focus on Stewart Udall, a conservationist who served as U.S. secretary of the interior from 1961 to 1969 and helped establish national parks throughout his tenure. Udall urged Americans to focus less on consumerism and economic growth and more on quality of life and environmental appreciation. He authored and co-authored 19 books, many of which covered environmental issues. Our natural resources are one of the biggest selling points in Sauk County and contribute to it being the fastest growing county in the region, UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County campus director Steven Swallen said. UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County takes pride in being part of this, and in being both a contributor to and a steward of these resources. David Olson, an instructor at UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County who also serves on Baraboos Common Council, said Sauk County is one of the major conservation hotspots in Wisconsin. Students at the university have worked with the Aldo Leopold Foundation, International Crane Foundation and other conservation organizations in the county, Olson added. The first film of the festival will be Rise Up Again: Exploring our Shared Humanity, which Schlupp said explores an increased sense of community and togetherness following the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting social isolation. Schlupp is a co-director of Running Free: The Baraboo River Restoration Story, which was released in 2021 and is being shown at the festival for the second time. The film was made as a 20-year dedication to the last dam removal from the river, which took place in 2001 after area conservation groups decided to remove dams in the late 1990s. It was free-flowing, which hadnt been the case since the 1930s or even earlier than that, Schlupp said. The Sauk Soil and Water Improvement Group has a nine-minute film dedicated to its work with farmers and community partners. Soil health and water quality improvement through education and agriculture methods are the organizations primary focuses. We have a lot of people who enjoy our natural resources, Schlupp said, adding that the films raise a litany of environmental issues and present solutions. Preservation of bee and other pollinator populations, preventing soil erosion, reducing excess energy consumption, emphasizing local meat production and purchases, and wildfires will also be covered. Breaking Trail, the story of Emily Ford, who hiked the entire 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail, is also scheduled. Were eager to host the 2023 Conserve Sauk Film Festival on campus on Nov. 4, Swallen said, adding that the previous two events have been at the campus. The festival will also host discussions on the films, Swallen said, adding that he expects between 200 and 300 people to attend.

A group of Sauk County institutions and organizations are coming together for the third time in four years to bring awareness of the countys landscape and environment through film.

The Conserve Sauk Film Festival will air 22 environmental-themed films, most of them locally produced, in five rooms at the Umhoefer Building at UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 4. Topics include farming and food production, wildlife preservation, Indigenous peoples and their relationship with the land, and restoration of the Baraboo River since the removal of dams.

We are going to be featuring a lot of films that are based on conservation, said Melissa Schlupp, conservation manager for Sauk County Land Resources and Environment. It might be related to pollinators or water resources or forestry.

The Conserve Sauk Film Festival was presented in 2019 and 2021. Schlupp said the event was planned for 2020 but was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers then decided to convert it into an event that takes place every other year. The scheduled films range in length from five to 80 minutes.

One of the films will focus on Stewart Udall, a conservationist who served as U.S. secretary of the interior from 1961 to 1969 and helped establish national parks throughout his tenure. Udall urged Americans to focus less on consumerism and economic growth and more on quality of life and environmental appreciation. He authored and co-authored 19 books, many of which covered environmental issues.

Our natural resources are one of the biggest selling points in Sauk County and contribute to it being the fastest growing county in the region, UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County campus director Steven Swallen said. UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County takes pride in being part of this, and in being both a contributor to and a steward of these resources.

David Olson, an instructor at UW-Platteville Baraboo Sauk County who also serves on Baraboos Common Council, said Sauk County is one of the major conservation hotspots in Wisconsin. Students at the university have worked with the Aldo Leopold Foundation, International Crane Foundation and other conservation organizations in the county, Olson added.

The first film of the festival will be Rise Up Again: Exploring our Shared Humanity, which Schlupp said explores an increased sense of community and togetherness following the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting social isolation.

Schlupp is a co-director of Running Free: The Baraboo River Restoration Story, which was released in 2021 and is being shown at the festival for the second time. The film was made as a 20-year dedication to the last dam removal from the river, which took place in 2001 after area conservation groups decided to remove dams in the late 1990s.

It was free-flowing, which hadnt been the case since the 1930s or even earlier than that, Schlupp said.

The Sauk Soil and Water Improvement Group has a nine-minute film dedicated to its work with farmers and community partners. Soil health and water quality improvement through education and agriculture methods are the organizations primary focuses.

We have a lot of people who enjoy our natural resources, Schlupp said, adding that the films raise a litany of environmental issues and present solutions.

Preservation of bee and other pollinator populations, preventing soil erosion, reducing excess energy consumption, emphasizing local meat production and purchases, and wildfires will also be covered. Breaking Trail, the story of Emily Ford, who hiked the entire 1,200-mile Ice Age Trail, is also scheduled.

Were eager to host the 2023 Conserve Sauk Film Festival on campus on Nov. 4, Swallen said, adding that the previous two events have been at the campus.

The festival will also host discussions on the films, Swallen said, adding that he expects between 200 and 300 people to attend.
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A police officer stands at a road closure near a bowling alley, seen in background, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. The site is one of Wednesday's two mass shootings in the city. Residents have been ordered to shelter in place as police continue to search for the suspect. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)


September 2023 Quarterly Activities Report

Sydney, Oct 25, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - During the quarter, Tamboran Resources Limited ( ASX:TBN ) ( TBNNY:OTCMKTS ) drilled and cemented the Shenandoah South 1H (SS1H) and Amungee NW 3H (A3H) wells within EP 117 and 98, respectively. The wells were drilled with the H&P super-spec FlexRig(R) Flex 3 rig and delivered significant improvements in drilling efficiency.



The SS1H well successfully intersected 90 metres of high quality Mid Velkerri B Shale, the thickest section to date within the Beetaloo Basin depocentre. Logging of the shale formation indicated higher porosity and gas saturation relative to offset wells.



The A3H well was successfully drilled and cemented in less than 18 days, the fastest well drilled to Total Depth (TD) with a horizontal section into the Mid Velkerri B Shale to date. The well was drilled ~20 days faster and ~30% lower cost than the A2H well from the same pad.



Tamboran announced a 32 per cent increase in Beetaloo Basin unrisked 2C contingent gas resources to 2.0 TCF following the drilling of the Maverick 1V (M1V) well in EP 136.



During the quarter, Tamboran signed six Letters of Intent (LOIs) with Australia's largest gas and energy retailers for 600 - 875 TJ per day (220 - 320 PJ per annum) for up to 10 - 15 years, demonstrating long term domestic demand for Beetaloo Basin gas supplies.



In October, Tamboran announced the intention to re-domicile to the United States by way of a Scheme of Arrangement (Scheme). Tamboran will remain listed on the ASX via CHESS depositary interests (CDIs) under the TBN ticker.



Tamboran commenced Concept Select engineering studies with Wood Group in relation to the Company's proposed NTLNG development at Middle Arm.



In September, Tamboran announced the appointments of Ms. Stephanie Reed and Mr. Ryan Dalton as Non-Executive Directors to the Board of Tamboran Resources Limited.



At 30 September 2023, the Company had a cash balance of A$33.5 million.



Tamboran Resources Limited Managing Director and CEO, Joel Riddle said:

"The first quarter of the financial year has been an active one for Tamboran as we commenced our FY24 drilling program with two wells in the EP 98/117 acreage utilising H&P's modern US rig. The joint operations with H&P have already delivered a step change in drilling efficiency, especially the drilling of the A3H well operations, which reached TD in less than 18 days. We will continue to learn from these activities as we target development well lateral lengths to 3,000 metres (~10,000 feet) in less than 20 days over coming years.



"The drilling and logging activities at the SS1H location have validated our view that the deepest sections of the Beetaloo Basin hold the highest quality shale, with logging of the Mid Velkerri B showing higher porosity and gas saturation relative to offset wells. The 10-stage stimulation program at SS1H is on track to commence in November and we look forward to sharing flow results with the market by early 2024. If deemed commercial, the results are expected to lead to the sanctioning of a proposed 40 TJ per day pilot development in the first half of 2024.



"We also made the decision to re-domicile Tamboran from Australia to the US, which is being undertaken via a Scheme of Arrangement, with shareholder vote planned for early December 2023. While we will continue to be traded on the ASX via CDIs following implementation of the Scheme, the intention to redomicile aims to allow the Company to access deeper capital markets in North America and improve valuation of our Beetaloo Basin assets in a market that better understands shale developments."



*To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/02Y7A1P6





About Tamboran Resources Limited





Tamboran Resources Ltd (ASX:TBN) is a natural gas company that intends to play a constructive role in the global energy transition towards a lower carbon future by developing low CO2 unconventional natural gas resources in the Beetaloo Sub-basin within the Greater McArthur Basin in the Northern Territory of Australia. Tamboran's key assets are a 25% working interest in EP 161 and a 100% working interest in EP 136, EP 143 and EP(A) 197 which are located in the Beetaloo Sub-basin.

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Exploration update - Canadian Prospects

Melbourne, Oct 26, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Cohiba Minerals Limited ( ASX:CHK ) ( CHKMF:OTCMKTS ) is pleased to provide a brief update to the market in relation to the current reconnaissance work on its lithium and rare earth elements prospects in Ontario, Canada.



Highlights:



- Reconnaissance work completed over the Gathering Lake, Rogers Creek and Ottertail prospects.



- Multiple large-scale pegmatites identified, mapped and sampled.



Cohiba's CEO, Andrew Graham says, "We are pleased to announce that Dahrouge Consulting has completed the initial reconnaissance work on each of the Gathering Lake, Rogers Creek and Ottertail prospects in Ontario, Canada. Access to the Big Rock prospect was hampered due to a decommissioned bridge and field conditions, and as such work on this prospect was postponed with additional work being allocated to the other prospects. The field program commenced on 21 September 2023 at Gathering Lake and concluded on 7 October 2023 at the Ottertail prospect.



"Multiple large pegmatites were identified and mapped, and samples were collected for analysis via a commercial laboratory. These result will be reported in due course."



Gathering Lake



Reconnaissance work at Gathering Lake (Figure 1*) commenced on 21 September 2023 and comprised field mapping and outcrop sampling. Numerous pegmatites were identified within both meta-sedimentary units (Figure 2*) and granitic bodies (Figures 3 and 4*), and were sampled for analysis by a commercial laboratory.



Tourmaline crystals were observed in some of the pegmatites. Tourmaline can provide evidence for the compositional evolution of pegmatite-forming melts through magmatic crystallization and pegmatite melt - host-rock interactions, and as such may be an important indicator mineral.



Rogers Creek



Reconnaissance work at Rogers Creek (Figure 5*) commenced on 28 September 2023 and comprised field mapping and outcrop sampling. Numerous pegmatites were identified primarily within meta-sedimentary units (Figure 6*) and were sampled for analysis by a commercial laboratory. Apatite and possibly beryl crystals were observed (Figure 7*) in the pegmatites in the north-eastern part of the prospect and comprised up to 1% (visual assessment). Tourmaline crystals were also observed in some of the pegmatites.



Ottertail



Reconnaissance work at Ottertail (Figure 8*) commenced on 3 October 2023 and comprised field mapping and outcrop sampling. Numerous granitic pegmatite dykes within a zone comprising a para-gneissic unit (Figures 9 and 10*) were identified and were sampled for analysis by a commercial laboratory. Many of the pegmatites in the eastern part of the Ottertail prospect contained epidote altered feldspar.



*To view tables and figures, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/VVO079OH





About Cohiba Minerals Limited





Cohiba Minerals Limited (ASX:CHK) is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange with the primary focus of investing in the resource sector through direct tenement acquisition, joint ventures, farm in arrangements and new project generation. The shares of the company trade under the ticker symbol CHK.

The Company recently acquired 100% of the shares in Charge Lithium Pty Ltd, which holds exploration licences in Western Australia.

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Australia Poised to Take Global Lead in Critical Minerals

Sydney, Oct 26, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The announcement by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to double the investment in the Critical Minerals Fund sets the scene for this year's International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney next week.



The AU$4 billion plan is aimed at expanding the production and processing of critical minerals in Australia to secure the country's position as a global critical minerals powerhouse.



Mr Albanese said Australia is in a strong position to help the global shift to net-zero due to its large deposits of critical minerals.



"Australia is committed to building sustainable and secure critical minerals supply chains with the United States. This is central to building a clean energy future and delivering economic growth. The expansion of the Critical Minerals Facility will help to build supply chains with the United States and support our shared clean energy, manufacturing and defence ambitions," Mr Albanese said.



Minister for Resources of Australia, Madeleine King, said the road to net-zero runs through Australia's resources sector.



"The Critical Minerals Facility is a cornerstone of support, providing finance to strategically significant projects which can crowd in private investment," Ms King said.



"Coupled with our support for processing, we are well positioned to be a world leading provider of critical minerals, including rare earths elements, and to support global efforts on clean energy transformation."



Australia is fortunate to be home to some of the largest recoverable critical mineral deposits on earth, with abundant reserves of rare minerals including lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel.



But unlike iron ore and coal, these critical minerals are also found in many other countries, meaning Australia's traditional competitive advantage no longer comes so easily.



As the world scrambles to secure these resources of the future, this new competitive landscape has spurred an effort to unlock Australia's potential as a critical mineral powerhouse given its large reserves of rare earth minerals.



Critical minerals are integral to the global clean energy economy and are key components for products such as solar panels, batteries, medical equipment and telecommunications technology. Thankfully, Australia is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for responsibly produced minerals.



Roland Hill from FYI Resources, a leader in producing high critical minerals for the electric vehicle and high-tech appliance industry, notes that despite Australia's leading position in the critical mineral market, there remains a lot of catching up to do to meet global demand pressures.



"Australia is probably punching above its weight in terms of supply and is therefore boasting some of the largest production of lithium. However, much like the rest of the world, Australia has been caught short a little in terms of the preparedness to address the shortfall in critical minerals supply. We still have a long way to go before we can say we are global leaders in critical minerals, in the same we do for traditional resources," Mr Hill says.



The global race to secure Critical Minerals



One of the biggest challenges facing the industry is the vulnerability of supply chains and the concentration of production facilities, particularly in China. As a result, Australia is looking to improve its trade partnerships with other nations such as India, Japan and South Korea to help diversify global supply chains.



Allison Britt, Director of Mineral Resources Advice and Promotion at Geoscience Australia said nations around the world are looking to ensure stable supply chains for their economic and sovereign security.



"Developing the large-scale mineral supply chains needed for the new energy transition requires new partnerships among like-minded countries in addition to existing trade relationships," Ms Britt said.



"Australia's international partnerships, trade agreements, extraordinary geological endowment and objectives to grow production, processing and manufacturing capacity should underpin our own energy transition."



To help alleviate the supply chain constraint, the Australian Government penned a strategic cooperation agreement with South Korea during diplomatic visit by President Moon Jae-in in December 2022. South Korea is a major producer of technologies and materials that require Australian critical minerals, including products with batteries, semiconductors and electric vehicles. The nation is already Australia's third-largest export destination.



The South Korea-Australia partnership further entrenches South Korea's standing as an important energy and resources export partner. The agreement also aligns with a call made in October 2021 by the head of the South Korean Government's new critical minerals planning team, which asked for greater engagement with Australia's mining and processing capacity.



Australia's role as a hydrogen gas producer has also not gone unnoticed and has been gaining traction, particularly with South Korean resource companies. Sun Metals, owned by Korea Zinc's Australian business, Ark Energy, is building a green hydrogen plant in Townsville. Once at capacity, Korea Zinc hopes to ship more than 500,000 tonnes of hydrogen a year from Queensland to Korea to power their factories.



According to Joshua Dellios, Partner at MinterEllison, as the world looks for access to critical minerals, Australia is emerging as a preferred market given the country's well-established regulatory framework that aims to ensure the sustainable development of its mineral resources while minimising their environmental impacts.



However, these safeguards also raise barriers to investment and exploration that could jeopardise Australia's attractiveness in an increasingly competitive global market. Australia will have to overcome challenges such as, limited infrastructure, high capital costs, and the need for advanced technologies. This will require collaborative efforts among industry, government, and research institutions, as well as targeted investments in infrastructure development, technological advancements, and streamlined regulations to create a more conducive environment for the growth of the critical minerals sector.



"Navigating the barriers to critical mineral exploration and mining in Australia demands a united front, with industry, government, and research working hand in hand to unlock the potential of this vital sector and propel our nation towards a greener future," Mr Dellios said.



New technologies key to reaching targets



Given the relative scarcity of critical minerals, companies like Fleet Space Technologies are encouraging the mining and resource sector to reimagine how they search for minerals and embrace technologies from other industries. Hemant Chaurasia, Chief Product Officer at Fleet Space Technologies says there is a lot to learn from the latest advances in the space sector.



"It is clear that mineral exploration is getting harder, as we start to exhaust shallow discoveries and are forced to search deeper into the earth. This demands a much more data-driven approach to exploration," Mr Chaurasia said.



"Today, using satellites and sensors, geophysical exploration data can be transmitted to the cloud in near real-time from anywhere on earth, shortening the time it takes to create actionable 3D models of the subsurface from months to days."



With uncertainty remaining around the supply chains of critical minerals, digital technologies are becoming increasingly important assets to mining and production companies. The solutions are allowing organisations to extract greater quantities of resources from existing materials whilst also lowering production and maintenance costs. IFS, a global leader in enterprise software solutions, is assisting the broader industry by helping them optimise supply chains and production and refining processes through its products.



Warren Zietsman, Managing Director of IFS Australia and New Zealand says embracing technology, software, and AI (Artificial Intelligence) is not just a 'take it or leave it' for mining organisations; t's a vital cog in the process to achieving business and sustainability goals.



"By leveraging technologies such as AI, Augmented Reality, Digital Twins and machine learning, mining organisations can effectively manage and maintain the mining of critical minerals, while extending the life of their assets and invariably reducing their carbon footprint," Mr Zietsman said.



"By taking advantage of the capabilities that intelligent operational planning and simulation tools can provide, organisations can foresee unexpected scenarios to protect a value chain that relies on minimal disruption."



Critical Minerals a key theme at IMARC 2023



The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) in Sydney later this month will feature a major focus on the global issues facing the critical mineral sector, and the challenges Australia must overcome to realise the potential to be a global critical minerals powerhouse.



With over 380 technical talks, panel discussions, and strategic keynote presentations across seven concurrent streams, IMARC offers attendees the opportunity to hear from experts across the sector as they look to revolve the varying challenges facing the mining and resource industry as they pivot towards critical minerals. Session will include:



- Driving International Supply Chain Collaboration in Critical Minerals



- Investing and Financing Australia's Critical Minerals' Independence



- The EU's Critical Raw Material Policy and Initiatives in Europe and with Third Countries



- Sustainable Mining for Green Technologies



IMARC spokesperson Paul Phelan says there will be a record number of international delegations looking to collaborate and strengthen their ties to help the global economy transition towards a sustainable, green technology-driven future.



"Critical minerals are the cornerstone of our green future, powering renewable energy, electrifying transportation, and revolutionising technology," Mr Phelan says.



"At this year's IMARC, we are delving deep into the pivotal role these resources play in shaping a sustainable world for generations to come.



"With abundant reserves of key elements such as lithium, rare earth metals, and cobalt, Australia is well-positioned and has the potential to play a major role in meeting the growing global demand for critical minerals that are essential components of modern technology.



"If we can make the most of this strategic advantage, we will not only help ensure a stable supply chain for the world's burgeoning tech industries but also establish ourselves as a key player in the global transition towards sustainable, green technologies.



"The settings are in place: the country's advanced mining technologies and strong environmental regulations position us as a responsible producer of these resources, paving the way for a more sustainable and ethically sourced supply chain in the critical minerals sector.



"As the world embraces a greener future, Australia can play pivotal role in this transition."







About International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC)





The International Mining and Resources Conference (IMARC) is where global mining leaders collaborate on trends in mining, investment and innovation towards a sustainable future. As Australia's largest mining event, it brings together over 8,500 decision makers, mining leaders, policy makers, investors, commodity buyers, technical experts, innovators, and educators from more than 100 countries for three days of learning, deal-making and unparalleled networking. IMARC is developed in collaboration with its founding partners the Victorian State Government, Austmine, the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (AusIMM) and Mines and Money, and held with the support of its Host Partner, the NSW Government.

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Sustained Growth and Commitment to Innovation

Nicosia, Oct 27, 2023 AEST (ABN Newswire) - ISX Financial EU Plc ("ISX Financial"), a leading global financial institution specialising in payments infrastructure, today announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2023, showcasing remarkable growth, solid profitability, ongoing innovation, and an expanding market presence.



Key Highlights:



Sustained Growth: ISX Financial has continued to demonstrate robust growth in Q3 2023, with revenues increasing by 11% year-on-year. This growth underscores the company's ability to seize new opportunities and expand its presence in the market. Furthermore, the company's Net Assets have surged by an impressive 64% year-on-year and 12% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ).



Solid Profitability: The company has maintained its profitability, boasting an EBITDA margin of 24%. This solidifies ISX Financial's position as a financially robust banktech payments company.



Investing in the Future: ISX Financial remains dedicated to innovation and has invested approximately EUR2 million in Research and Development year-to-date. These investments are driving the company's vision to deliver cutting-edge financial solutions.



Innovation: The commitment to innovation is evident in ISX Financial's latest product developments. flykk(R), one of the company's flagship products, has been significantly enhanced with a major new version set to be launched in the coming days. The flykk(R) linked Diners card has been certified for production and is now in the pre-rollout stage. Additionally, ISX Financial has received further patents during the last quarter, showcasing its commitment to intellectual property and innovation.



Expanding Market Presence: The company continues to secure new customers and explore exciting segments in the market. A notable development is the extension of ISX Financial's PaidBy(R) bank transfers offering to a major marketplace, making it accessible to over 30,000 UK retail merchants.



2023 Guidance: ISX Financial is well on track to achieve its goal of reaching EUR30 million in revenue by the end of 2023 while maintaining an EBITDA/profitability margin within the range of 20-30%.



Commenting on the Q3 2023 results, CEO, Nikogiannis Karantzis, ISX Financial, said, "We are excited to report another quarter of impressive growth and profitability. These results reflect our unwavering commitment to our customers, by delivering new services through innovation together with the ability to capitalize on opportunities through solving our customer's problems."



ISX Financial's Q3 2023 results signify the company's dedication to delivering innovative financial solutions and its continued success in expanding its market presence.



*To view ISX Financial Q3 Report, please visit:

https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/X4H1N68H





About ISX Financial





ISX Financial EU PLC is a 'banktech' company that leverages its own technology to provide financial services to merchants across the EEA & UK. The company's combined payments stack and infrastructure provides a complete end-to-end transactional banking, FX, remittance and payment processing capability.

ISXMoney's multi-Currency IBAN accounts coupled with PaidBy Bank instant open banking provide merchants with a tailored payment solution to reach any UK or EEA bank account holders.

ISX Financial's consumer product "flykk" is a digital wallet that combines all its financial technology and infrastructure to create a retail product. flykk(R) is a two-sided network developed on ISX's own platform that links both merchants and consumers around the globe to facilitate the processing of payment transactions. flykk(R) allows customers to use their account for both purchase and paying for goods, as well as to transfer and withdraw funds, with the benefits of a Diners card for point of sale transactions.

ISX Financial's subsidiary Probanx(R) also develops payment infrastructure for third parties, and provides connectivity to central banks, banks around the world and major card schemes.

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Instagram Celebrity

The actress portraying Danni Sullivan on 'Scrubs', who has been body-shamed due to her weight, insists in a new interview that she doesn't have eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia.

Oct 26, 2023

AceShowbiz - Tara Reid has had enough of hearing speculations related to her weight. Having been constantly criticized for being "too thin," the Danni Sullivan depicter on "Scrubs" insisted that she doesn't have eating disorders.

The 47-year-old shut down the chatter about her body when speaking to the Los Angeles Inquisitor. She first told the outlet, "If we were overweight then they can't say anything because that's bullying. But it's the same thing if you're skinny. That's still bullying too."

Tara claimed she's no stranger to hearing rumors about her weight, but they got worse after she appeared in season 2 of "Special Forces: World's Toughest Test". She then clarified, "I have no anorexia and never have... And I definitely don't have any bulimia. I'm terrified of throwing up, so that's not gonna happen. And I love food too much."

"So anyone that says I'm anorexic or bulimic, they're wrong," the actress stressed. "So stop it. Leave me alone. Pick on me again on something else, but not on those two things. It's not right."

Back in October 2021, Tara got body-shamed after she let out two black-and-white Instagram photos of her wearing a bikini. Catching wind of the negative comments about her look, she fired back during an interview with Page Six, "I've always been thin... So these stories are kind of crazy because it's like there's nothing that has changed for forever."

"This is who I am, this is what I am, this is what I'm [aspiring] to be. Hopefully that will change the minds of bullies, but if doesn't, I'm okay with that," Tara added. "I've gone through it for so many years that, you know, sometimes I feel bad for them because if they're that miserable writing things at home, what are they doing? That's negative. You know, it's hurtful."

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From the outset of the latest Israel-Palestine conflict, the capitalist media in Britain has acted as an obedient mouthpiece for the establishment, echoing their imperialist propaganda. We need to build a voice for the exploited and oppressed.

[Originally published at socialist.net]

If you believed the deafening howl of the free press in Britain, you would think that it was Israel that is being razed to the ground.

On a daily basis, our screens and broadsheets are plastered with Hamas atrocities  real or imagined. The Israeli states brutal response, by contrast, is sympathetically played down as measured retaliation and justifiable defence, with tokenistic lip service paid to respecting international law.

To this end, the capitalist press, all singing from the same hymn sheet, have developed an elaborate doublespeak: Israelis are killed, whilst Palestinians merely die; Hamas massacres and slaughters, while the IDF strikes and blasts.

If you support the Palestinian people and criticise Netanayhus regime, you are labelled a terrorist sympathiser and an antisemite. But Israel, of course, has a right to defend itself.

With an undeniable humanitarian disaster playing out before us, the bourgeois press has attempted to throw dust in the publics eyes, obscuring the truth by branding the conflict as impenetrably complex.

In reality, it is clear as day: the Israeli war machine, backed by western imperialism, is inflicting a genocidal catastrophe on occupied and oppressed Palestine.

Gazans are starved of food, water, and electricity; indiscriminately shelled day and night. Already, since 7 October, well over five thousand Palestinians have been murdered in cold blood. This is not a surgical operation against Hamas, but a systematic butchery of the Palestinian masses.

But none of this is in the establishments script.

Mouthpiece for imperialism

The British press presents itself as free and objective. But really they are just obedient lapdogs for the capitalist establishment.

It is enough to compare their recent coverage of the crisis in the Middle East with that of the Ukraine war to see the scandalous hypocrisy and clear class bias at play across the bourgeois media.

Dispensing with any illusions in impartiality, these mouthpieces of British imperialism led a hysterical chorus of Slava Ukraini. They gleefully attacked Putin as an evil Nazi for doing precisely what Netanyahu is doing now.

Even today, the papers devote entire articles to individual buildings that are destroyed in Ukraine  all while Gaza is being reduced to rubble.

Closing ranks

Dispensing with any illusions in impartiality, these mouthpieces of British imperialism led a hysterical chorus of Slava Ukraini / Image: fair use

In spite of the superficial diversity amongst the national newspapers, 90% are controlled by just three media monopolies and their billionaire owners.

They all enjoy an incestuous relationship with the state, as exposed by the Leveson Inquiry. And many of their scoops are spoon fed directly by the powers that be, via shady committees like the Defence Correspondents Association.

When it comes to criticism of the elites, they wear padded gloves for fear of losing a seat at the table.

So-called left papers and right-wing rags might squabble over secondary matters and culture war issues. But on important class questions, they march in lockstep and sing with one voice.

From justifying the invasion of Iraq by loyally printing the lies of Bush and Blair; to blaring out an incessant pro-monarchy cacophony in the wake of Lizzies death, and again around Charles coronation; to their anti-worker stance over the course of Britains strike wave over the past year: the press will always close ranks when it comes to protecting the rich and powerful, and pushing the bosses interests.

BBC bias

This can be clearly seen in relation to Palestine. Liberal media outlets have been no better than their openly reactionary counterparts when it comes to censorship and slander.

While leading news anchors and editors happily echo the establishments propaganda, journalists and media workers attempting to tell the truth are being gagged and silenced.

Recently, for example, the Guardian suspended cartoonist Steve Bell over trumped-up charges of anti-semitism. And with no hint of irony, the same  supposedly left-wing  paper pulled a commissioned opinion piece on press censorship over Palestine at the last minute.

The BBC is the worst offender. Hiding behind a veneer of impartiality, it is the PR department of British capitalism: a ventriloquist dummy in the hands of Downing Street, well-known for being stuffed to the brim with Tory stooges.

When it steps out of line, the government threatens to further cut the public broadcasters funding, or twists its arm until it sings the right tune  as seen with the response to Gary Linekers criticism of the Tories approach to asylum-seekers.

The BBC may have been forced to apologise recently for consistently branding Palestinian solidarity demonstrations as pro-Hamas. But at the same time, the BBC has suspended six Arabic reporters for tweeting in support of Palestine.

Similarly, the state news channel has come under pressure from Zionist groups and Tory ministers to refer to Hamas as terrorists rather than militants. And the broadcaster was hysterically attacked when it initially attributed the Al-Ahli hospital bombing to Israel.

Narrative and reality

Israels escalating aggression, combined with the complicity of British imperialism, has provoked a tsunami of public support on the side of Palestine.

The capitalist media stand on the other side of the barricades, with the rulers and the rich / Image: fair use

Hundreds of thousands have taken to the streets in towns and cities across Britain. In workplaces and on campuses, workers and youth are attempting to campaign against the atrocities committed by the Israeli military, and the key role played by our own ruling class.

And all of this in defiance of the torrent of propaganda emanating from the press, alongside increasingly repressive threats from the authorities.

Throughout, the capitalist media stand on the other side of the barricades, with the rulers and the rich  loyally serving those who have an interest in allowing the slaughter and silencing dissent.

To slander and undermine the growing mass movement in support of Palestine, the press use exactly the same bullying tactics as they used against Corbyn and his supporters. But these are wearing thin. Today, just 37% of people trust the mainstream UK media.

With living conditions collapsing, the class struggle intensifying, and horrifying wars opening up all across a burning planet, the gulf between the medias narrative and the reality facing workers is getting greater and greater.

Every time they justify and defend the status quo  attempting to rehabilitate the Tories, or shoving Starmer down our throats  it makes it all the more obvious that the press is yet another tool of the capitalist class, designed to cloak their system with spin and outright lies.

Workers voice

We, as communists, do not pretend to be impartial / Image: Socialist Appeal

We, as communists, do not pretend to be impartial. There can be no neutrality in class society.

We stand firmly on the side of the exploited and the oppressed. And here, there can be no doubt as to who is the oppressed and who is the oppressor. The Palestinians have been crushed under the heel of the Israeli state for 75 years, all with the open support of western imperialism.

Capitalism grants a thousand voices to the bosses and bankers. Yet while media moguls own and control the printing presses and news channels, the working class are silenced.

That is why we are building the revolutionary press, in order to offer a clear, class perspective, and to provide a powerful voice to workers and youth.

We have no billionaire backers, however. Instead, we rely solely on the support and sacrifice of ordinary workers.

We therefore appeal to you: If you havent already, subscribe today. And if you agree with our analysis, then join us, get organised, and help us to spread the ideas contained within the pages of Socialist Appeal.

The ruling class has a full arsenal at their disposal for fighting the class war. We need to arm ourselves with the best weapon we have: the revolutionary ideas of Marxism.
Cover Images/Brandi Benton/Joe Newman TV

The Australian dancer, meanwhile, confesses in her own statement that being excluded from tribute to the late judge of the dancing competition show 'hurt more than not being asked back.'

Oct 26, 2023

AceShowbiz - Brian Austin Green was not happy after her fiance Sharna Burgess was not invited for "Dancing with the Stars" tribute to late judge Len Goodman in the latest episode of season 32. Making use of his Instagram account, the actor put the ABC show on blast over the snub.

"I can't even begin to tell you how disappointed I was for @sharnaburgess to not be invited for the tribute last night," Brian wrote in a statement posted to Instagram Wednesday, October 25. "It's disappointing as well that none of her 'family in the ballroom' stuck up for her or spoke out."

The "Beverly Hills, 90210" star went on raving about Sharna, writing, "She's an incredible soul and has always been a friend to everyone. She deserved better. #familystickstogether."

Sharna, who wasn't asked back for the current season 32 of "DWTS", also addressed the exclusion on Instagram Stories on the same day. "I haven't made a single comment publicly about the tribute because of a few reasons," she penned. "Firstly.. I know it's not about me it's about Len and the honor he deserved."

She further reflected on the touching tribute, "Secondly.. this hurt more than not being asked back and I'm working through it. Thirdly.. sharing feelings on here often gets met with a few negative people who believe I didn't deserve to be there anyway."

"I love him for wanting to defend me even though he didn't need to," the Australian ballroom dancer said of her fiance. "Remember 2 things can be true. I can love and support the show, feel joy for those who were there, and also feel sad about me not being there."

Sharna Burgess reflected on being excluded from Len Goodman tribute on 'DWTS'.

The heartfelt tribute saw former professional dancers, including Maksim Chmerkovskiy, Kym Johnson-Herjavec, Tony Dovolani, Anna Trebunskaya, Edyta Sliwinska, Karina Smirnoff, Louis van Amstel and Mark Ballas, returning to the ballroom. They joined forces for a beautiful Waltz routine, which was choreographed by Valentin Chmerkovskiy and Jenna Johnson, to Len's favorite song "Moon River".

"One of the things I'm most thankful for is being able to judge alongside Len," emotional Derek Hough said in the episode, which theme was "Most Memorable Year Night". "I was able to spend a little more extra time with him and for that, I'm really thankful."

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New Line Cinema TV

While she enjoys watching Sarah Jessica Parker's television show, Hailey is astonished to discover the classic series a lot racier than she originally thought.

Oct 26, 2023

AceShowbiz - Hailey Baldwin is stunned by the amount of "t******" on display in raunchy "Sex and the City" scenes. The 26-year-old model, who tied the knot with Justin Bieber, 29, in 2018, said she has been watching the hit 1990s show for the first time when she is falling asleep and has been left astounded by its nudity.

"It's way raunchier than I thought it was going to be," she told GQ Hype. "There are t****** out all the time."

But Hailey said she identified with all the show's characters. She added, "I identify with each of them for different reasons. Shucks, sometimes I think Charlotte's wide-eyed innocentness in some ways reminds me of me when I was a little bit younger. Just kind of everything is like, 'Well, why don't you just try this?' "

But Hailey added she also relates to Sarah Jessica Parker's lead Carrie character due to her persistence and love of fashion. She also said she connected with how Samantha "absolutely doesn't give a f***," but "underneath it all, she actually does really care a lot."

Hailey went on, "And then, who's the last one? Miranda. I feel like she is just the super-brains, analytical one in the situation. I'm also very analytical, so I kind of identify with that."

"I was watching an episode, I think it was last night, and she's like, 'Let me know when you guys are done talking just about boys. We're not in seventh grade any more. Let's talk about something that matters.' "

Hailey's surprise over the "Sex and the City" content comes despite her moving to New York aged 17 and being plunged into the city's party scene. Referring to the now-closed West Village nightclub, she added, "You move into New York City and you're out at Up and Down at 17."

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Aashirvaad Organic, a leading and trusted household name in staples, introduced its new brand proposition that redefines the landscape of its organic offerings - Sach Much Organic. This proposition resonates with Aashirvaad's unwavering dedication to delivering purity, transparency and 100% organic products of great quality to discerning consumers.

In a world where the term 'organic' often remains shrouded in ambiguity, Aashirvaad takes a bold step to uphold its pledge of 100% Aashirvaad, 100% Organic. At the heart of Sach Much Organic lies a revolutionary innovation that empowers consumers  a unique QR code on each product's packaging that enables consumers to trace their chosen product's journey from the farm to their homes. Thus, educating and creating awareness among consumers about the source and journey of their food. A pioneering feature setting new industry standards, and empowering consumers to make choices that align with their well-being and values.

Additionally, the range from Aashirvaad Organic includes a portfolio of attas and dals that carry prestigious certifications from United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as per the National Organic Program of the United States and from INDOCERT as per the National Programme for Organic Production of India, affirming to consumers that they meet organic standards. Each of the products goes through rigorous testing for 217 pesticides, setting a new standard for purity and quality in the industry.

Anuj Rustagi, COO, Staples & Adjacencies, ITC Ltd., remarked, "At ITC, we are dedicated to driving transformative change that positively impacts society. For decades, Aashirvaad has graced countless households with premium and quality offerings. Through Sach Much Organic, the brand is not only setting new benchmarks but also building awareness about the true essence of organic goodness. With a mission to educate consumers about the benefits of choosing organic, Aashirvaad Organic is poised to inspire trust - one Sach Much Organic product at a time. Aashirvaads Organic Range represents our dedication to creating a better future, where consumers connect with products.

Complementing this proposition, Aashirvaad has launched two new protein-rich organic offerings: Organic Rajma and Organic Kabuli Chana. These additions to the range exemplify Aashirvaad's dedication to redefining the realm of organic goodness.
During an analyst call on October 26, 2023, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, announced that its revenue from Click-to-Message ads in India has experienced a year-over-year doubling, underscoring the substantial growth potential of business messaging for the social media behemoth.

Mark Zuckerberg, CEO, Meta, also noted that in India, more than 60 per cent of WhatsApp users engage with business app accounts on a weekly basis. Nevertheless, he refrained from providing specific figures regarding the revenue generated from these advertisements or the precise number of users interacting with business accounts in the country.

With over 500 million users, India stands as the largest market for WhatsApp. In February 2023, Zuckerberg previously stated that Click-to-Message ads had achieved a global revenue run rate of $10 billion. Moneycontrol had previously reported that the app was projected to attain $1 billion in revenue in India by the conclusion of 2023.

During the earnings conference call on October 26, Zuckerberg expressed his belief that business messaging will emerge as the next significant pillar for the company's operations, with more than 600 million daily conversations occurring between individuals and businesses across their platforms.

Over the past year, Meta has made substantial efforts to monetise its prominent acquisition, WhatsApp, by intensifying its business-oriented offerings, and India has played a pivotal role in fueling this growth.
Niyo, Indias leading digital banking fintech that is revolutionising the travel-banking ecosystem in India, announces the appointment of former senior executive of Flipkart, Upstox and Britannia, Sushanth Ravikumar as its Senior Vice President of Marketing. Last week, the company announced a strategic investment from Spring Marketing Capital, a prominent player in strategic marketing and branding initiatives.

With a strong background in e-commerce, FMCG, and Fintech, Sushanth will play a pivotal role in reinforcing Niyos brand position as a category leader in the travel-banking space. He will lead the overall marketing charter, overseeing key areas such as crafting the brand strategy, driving the growth charter and customer initiatives.

Sushanth has a total work experience of 17 years in marketing and sales. During his nearly seven-year tenure at Flipkart, he played a key role in driving brand and customer growth across various segments, including fashion and large appliances, through robust marketing strategies and campaigns. He also contributed to building platform loyalty with initiatives like Flipkart Plus and Super Coins, developed private brands and licenses, and orchestrated comprehensive marketing plans for Flipkarts Big Billion Days and other sale events. At Britannia, Sushanth led the brand and P&L for Milk Bikis. He also held positions as VP of Marketing at Upstox and Head of Brand Marketing at MPL.

Vinay Bagri, Co-founder and CEO, Niyo said, We've been able to achieve a great growth trajectory over the past year and also build strong products for travellers. Building a strong brand and innovative marketing strategies are crucial for unlocking the next stage of growth for Niyo. Having Sushanth as a core team member, with his extensive experience and leadership in the marketing domain, will be instrumental in propelling Niyo to new heights. We are confident that his expertise will contribute immensely in our mission to scale the brand and simplify travel banking for Indians.

Sushanth Ravikumar, Senior Vice President (SVP), Niyo, expressed his excitement, saying, I am thrilled to be a part of such a dynamic, new-age Fintech that is shaping the future of travel banking in India. Vinay and Virender are building products that are disrupting this segment and solving for new emerging needs of customers. I'm excited to build a strong brand with them and shape new customer behaviour that unlocks growth.

Sushanth holds a Masters degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow. Based in Bengaluru, he is also passionate about wildlife photography and conservation.
Advertising doyen Ramesh Narayan was presented with the AFAA Honorary Life Member Award at the AdAsia Congress being currently held at Seoul Korea.

The award was presented at the inaugural session of the AdAsia by Srinivasan Swamy Chairman Asian Federation of Advertising Associations (AFAA) on 25th October 2023.

With this Narayan becomes the only person to be presented all the three prestigious awards that AFAA presents every alternate year at the AdAsia.

In 2015 he was presented the AFAA Special Merit Award at AdAsia Bali and in 2021, at AdAsia Macau he was inducted into the AFAA Hall of Fame.

Says Srinivasan Swamy, "This award seeks to honorthe enormous contribution Narayan has made to AFAA and to the global advertising and marketing community."

Ramesh Narayan said "I am accepting the award on behalf of all those to believe that communication can be a force for good."
Talod Food Products Private Limited (TFPPL) is thrilled to welcome Mr. Samit Shah as its Chief Operating Officer, effective from October 16, 2023. Samit Shah is an MBA Gold Medalist and brings over 21 years of extensive experience in Sales Marketing, Business Strategies and Business Growth , Brand Solutions, Experiential Marketing, and more. His impressive journey includes his most recent role as Vice President and Regional Director of Impact Properties (Activation, Events, Sponsorships) & Digital Business at Radio Mirchi (ENIL) for the West and South India Regions.

Samit Shah's journey started with Radio Mirchi as the Head of Marketing, and he quickly climbed the ladder, showcasing his exceptional leadership. Prior to his role at Radio Mirchi, he also contributed his expertise as a Team Lead in Trade Marketing and Operations at Coca Cola India and he started his career with One Advertising Services Ltd as a Sr. Executive Client Servicing post his MBA.

Mr. Shah's 'Business Growth' strategy aligns perfectly with Talod Foods' commitment to innovation and excellence. His strategic thinking, exceptional leadership, and extensive experience are expected to play a pivotal role in driving the company's growth and success in the competitive food industry. Talod Foods, and the company looks forward to leveraging his expertise to continue delivering exceptional products and experiences to its customers.
Others Specials How to Transform Ravan's 10 Sins into Virtues: Insights from Swami Advaitananda Giri

Toronto (Canada), October 26: Indo-Canadians came together in remarkable numbers to joyously celebrate Dussehra. Festive commemorations took place in numerous temples across the region, with Brampton's Hindu Sabha temple being a focal point of the grandeur. A staggering crowd of over ten thousand individuals graced this auspicious occasion. The Indian diaspora converged in Brampton, where they relished the vibrant re-enactment of Ram Leela and the symbolic burning of Ravan's effigy, all set against the backdrop of a spectacular fireworks display.

Speaking at the event Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion, and Persons with Disabilities of Govt. of Canada said As Hindus in Canada and across the world break their fast as Navratri ends, I wish everyone celebrating a very Happy Dussehra! This joyous celebration marks the victory of good over evil and the triumph of righteousness, symbolized by the victory of lord Rama over the demon Ravana.

Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton said Jai Shri Ram, wishing Brampton a prosperous Dussehra this evening. The turnout is incredible. May the triumph of good over evil inspire us all.

Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament, Brampton North stated that It's an absolute pleasure to celebrate Dussehra with the community in Brampton; Dussehra is a major Hindu festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. Like past years, this year, the Hindu Sabha Mandir entertained the thousands of people in attendance with a beautiful rendition of Ramlila, a dramatic performance of the story of Lord Rama, teaching the harm of letting ones vices take control. At the end of the play an effigy of the demon Ravana, built 4 stories high was lit on fire, signifying the victory of Lord Rama.

Swami Advaitananda Giri, Chairman of, the International Meditation Foundation explained that The ten heads of Ravan are symbolic and they are interpreted as Ego, Lust, Anger, Greed, Attachment, Selfishness, Jealousy, Arrogance, Ignorance & Injustice.

Meditation practices can be a transformative path to convert the ten sins associated with Ravana into ten virtues. Through deep introspection and mindfulness, individuals can dismantle their ego by recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings. Lust can be transmuted into a deep appreciation for the beauty of life without attachment. Anger can be replaced with inner peace and emotional balance. Greed can be replaced by contentment and generosity. Attachment can transform into detachment, allowing one to let go gracefully as explained by Swami Advaitananda Giri.

Swami Advaitananda Giri further stated Selfishness can be dissolved by cultivating selflessness. Jealousy can be overcome through practicing gratitude and celebrating others' successes. Arrogance can be humbled by recognizing our inherent limitations. Ignorance can be dispelled through knowledge and wisdom gained from meditation. Injustice can be replaced by a commitment to fairness and compassion towards all. Ultimately, meditation fosters self-awareness and helps individuals cultivate virtues that align with a more harmonious and compassionate way of living.

Swami Advaitananda Giri, who advocated for the inclusion of universal human values in Indias National Education Policy 2020, suggested that Canada and other part of the world should also make Universal Human Values as part of their education curriculum. In America, US CDC 2021 reports that 32.4% overall population is affected with Anxiety or Depression disorders, out of this 46.6% of youth in the age group of 18-29 were also reported to be affected with Anxiety or Depression disorders.

A serious question arises If 32.4% population is having serious mental health issues like anxiety or depression then It can be safely presumed that to have an anxiety or depression rate of 32.4 %, there must be a need for at least 3 times more sad people in the population, this leads to 32.4% x 3 = 97.2% of the total population. If 97.2% population is sad then there is a likelihood that 99% population must be experiencing the emotions of worry, fear, the feeling of failure, etc... The feeling of worry forms the basis of sadness, sadness leads to anxiety or depression, and further anxiety or depression results in the very serious act of suicide or violent behavior.

Depression or anxiety doesnt occur directly. It is caused in progressive stages out of the feeling of sadness or dejection etc As the sadness or dejection type of emotions deepens then only it will take the shape of depression or anxiety, not straightway. This means that depression or anxiety is an outcome of the prevalence of sadness among the larger population. For example, if one person has been diagnosed with depression or anxiety that means behind this there must be at least three people or more who were already experiencing sadness or dejection type of emotional imbalance explained Swami Advaitananda Giri.
Korri Cunningham, a teacher at John Herbert Phillips Academy, was surprised with the prestigious Milken Educator Award this morning.

The Milken Educator Award is national recognition that has been referred to by many as the Oscars of teaching. Created by Lowell Milken in 1987, the award publicly recognizes excellence in teaching not only to inspire educators, but also students and communities to celebrate, elevate and activate the K-12 teaching profession.

Milken recipients do not apply to receive the award. Candidates are sourced through a confidential selection process and then reviewed by blue ribbon panels appointed by state departments of education. Those most exceptional are recommended for the award, with final approval by the Milken Family Foundation.

I knew that I wanted to become a teacher in Kindergarten, Cunningham said during her acceptance speech. My teacher had such an impact on my life, and I spent a lot of my nap time just studying her. I knew I needed to be just like her. She treated each of us like we were her world.

The award includes $25,000 for the recipient to spend as they choose, in addition to an all-expense paid trip to an educational forum in Los Angeles in June to meet other Milken winners.

Several of Alabamas past Milken Educator Award winners attended the surprise program. State Superintendent Eric Mackey and Birmingham City Schools Superintendent Mark Sullivan were also in attendance.

Stephanie Bishop, Milken Educator Awards Vice President and former 2001 Milken Educator Award winner, presented Cunningham with the award.

Korri Cunninghams remarkable leadership, resourcefulness and ability to build solid relationships have made her a trusted, respected leader in the school and district, said Bishop. I am honored to welcome Korri to the Milken Educator Network, and to celebrate both her achievements today and potential to positively impact the profession for decades to come.

Korri Cunningham, a teacher at John Herbert Phillips Academy, was surprised with the prestigious Milken Educator Award. Cunningham, the sole Alabama recipient this season, is among up to 75 recipients across the country this school year who will be awarded as part of the Milken Family.

Cunningham, the sole Alabama recipient this season, is among up to 75 recipients across the country this school year who will be awarded as part of the Milken Family.

Im so grateful to work alongside all of my colleagues, all of the teachers, support staffeveryone, Cunningham said. And all of the students. You guys make me a better person.

Cunningham earned an Associate of Art in English from Lawson State Community College in 2011, a Bachelor of Science in secondary education-English from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2015, and a Master of Education in instructional leadership from the University of West Alabama in 2021.

Other notable school and district leadership roles of hers include Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) IB coordinator, district reading curriculum review team member, and advisor to John Herbert Phillips Academys National Junior Honor Society. Cunningham also assists the Phillips Academy administration team with curriculum and operational preparations, ensuring a smooth back-to-school transition for students and staff.

To watch the livestream of the awards ceremony from this morning, visit this link. For more about Cunningham and her background, see her profile on the official Milken Educator Awards page.
Since the collapse of SYRIZA in Greeces general election back in June, the party leadership has been captured by a populist shipping magnate. This is an ignominious but fitting ending for a party that once inspired hope among millions of workers, only to see those hopes dashed by the betrayals of the party leadership. New local elections have confirmed the partys collapse. But while SYRIZA may be dead as a vehicle for the discontent and anger of the Greek working class, we are seeing that anger expressed in massive abstention, and to SYRIZAs left, in the rising vote of the Communist Party (KKE).

The Greek local elections, which took place 8 and 15 October, saw a large increase in abstention, the beginning of a weakening of ruling New Democracy, a collapse of the influence of SYRIZA, and an increase in support for the KKE.

We did not see any advance for the far right, as in the June general elections, since the three far right parties were reluctant to put forward candidates of their own. In the few cases where they did, their candidates (sometimes disguised as independents) failed to achieve strong results. Although this time the hypocritical bourgeois judiciary allowed him to stand as a candidate for the municipality of Athens, the imprisoned neo-Nazi Kasidiaris saw his votes fall from 21,963 in the last local elections in 2019 to 11,643.

In general, these results clearly disprove the theories of a supposed right-wing shift or a move towards fascism, as the Left claimed after the general elections of May and June. The leadership of SYRIZA in particular had tried to use this excuse to cover up for their own failings.

Greek society is going through a transitional phase, dominated on the one hand by political disillusionment and confusion, but also growing anger against the ruling class and its regime. The latter process, while causing some of the petty bourgeoisie to fall for far right or centreground demagogy, in the ranks of the most politically advanced sections of the working class and the youth is fuelling a new turn to the left, with the KKE being the main beneficiary.

A slap in the face for New Democracy

These local elections saw a historic record set, with 47.47 percent abstaining in the first round, skyrocketing to 64.85 percent in the second round. In the municipality of Athens, abstention reached 67.68 percent in the first round and 73.27 percent in the second round! This reflects a mixture of frustration and anger on the part of the people, and a complete lack of faith in the bourgeois regime and existing parties.

In the days preceding the second round, prime minister Mitsotakis and the leaders of New Democracy were aiming for a victory in nine key battles: in the six contested regions and in three contested large municipalities. They won only one of those battles. In seven out of the nine (and in many other cases), their vote actually dropped in the second round, vividly showing how demoralised their electoral base is, only months after their victory in the general election.

Even in many cases where New Democracy candidates won, there was a huge reduction in their vote compared to the results of the previous local elections, or the June general election.

Whereas the ruling party previously controlled 11 out of 13 regions, it now only controls 8. It also lost control of several municipalities, including Athens and Thessaloniki. Such results are deeply worrying for the Greek ruling class, coming at a time when it needs stability in order to attack the living standards and the rights of the working class, as well as the petty bourgeoisie that forms its base, ever more vigorously.

SYRIZA collapses

SYRIZA suffered big losses in almost all the regions and municipalities where it put forward its own candidates / Image: Pavlos1988, Wikimedia Commons

SYRIZA suffered big losses in almost all the regions and municipalities where it put forward its own candidates. For example, in the region of Attica (which includes the city of Athens) SYRIZA fell from 277,485 votes in 2019 and 295,268 votes in June, to 193,660 in the first round. In the second largest region, Central Macedonia (which includes the city of Thessaloniki), where in 2019 it had received 105,798 votes, it now fell to 58,416 votes. In the largest municipality, Athens, from 35,403 votes in 2019 it now fell to 18,668 votes. In the municipality of Piraeus, from 10,662 votes in 2019 and 12,906 in June, it fell to 6,873. The list goes on.

As for PASOK, its opportunistic choice to support joint candidacies with New Democracy and SYRIZA in several regions and municipalities afforded it some wins. But this merely masks the striking inability of PASOK to benefit substantially from the losses of New Democracy and SYRIZA. The decisive weakening of PASOKs influence in society, which started in 2010, has only temporarily decelerated because it has been overshadowed by the crisis of SYRIZA.

The leadership of SYRIZA, pointing to some of the victories of its joint candidates with PASOK, or of PASOK candidates that SYRIZA supported in the second round, claims that its progressive bloc is the only way to defeat New Democracy. However, the supposedly progressive PASOK was simultaneously cooperating with New Democracy in other municipalities!

The Kasselakis phenomenon in SYRIZA

The new leader of SYRIZA, the bourgeois demagogue Stefanos Kasselakis, is not solely responsible for this electoral disaster. However, contrary to the persistent talk of a Kasselakis wave, these results show that his leadership is not reversing SYRIZAs poor fortunes.

After the resounding defeat of SYRIZA in the general elections, Tsipras quit like a rat fleeing a sinking ship. In the farcical leadership election (where anyone who appeared on the day of the election and paid 2 to become a party member was eligible to vote), there were initially four candidates, each less appealing to the masses than the next: Achtsioglou, Tsakalotos, Pappas and Tzoumakas.

After the resounding defeat of SYRIZA in the general elections, Tsipras quit like a rat fleeing a sinking ship / Image: Arne Museler, Wikimedia Commons

Tzoumakas, formally the most right-wing, is an ex-PASOK minister from the 1990s, while the other three are former SYRIZA ministers who co-signed the austerity memoranda. The most left-wing of the four, Tsakalotos, was finance minister through SYRIZAs stint in government, having replaced Varoufakis as more willing to enforce the reactionary policies of the troika and the Greek ruling class.

While Achtsioglou was clearly leading the polls (with Tsipras favourite, Pappas, not standing any chance of winning), Kasselakis, a literal outsider who was not even a member of the party, entered the race.

Kasselakis presented himself as a successful shipowner, former Goldman Sachs executive, and voluntary collaborator with Joe Biden. He stated that he wanted to reinvent the party, to create something like the Democratic Party of the USA, and so on. Naturally, he became the favourite candidate of the capitalist media, as well as of leading New Democracy figures. It was also an open secret that he had the support of Tsipras, but he was also publicly supported by Polakis, a well-known figure in SYRIZA who has the largest appeal amongst left-wing supporters of the party.

In the end, Kasselakis managed to win in almost all the electoral centres of the party in the first round, and again in the second round against Achtsioglou. That a populist shipping magnate could come from outside the party and, with the backing of the ruling class, win the SYRIZA leadership, and that no established party figure had the political authority to stop him, is testament to the complete political bankruptcy of SYRIZA. Kasselakis election is the closest thing to a death certificate for the party.

This is the logical end point of the betrayals of the Tsipras leadership since 2015. But the unexpected nature of this development led many people to speak of a Kasselakis wave. While his candidacy drew a layer of voters that otherwise would have been indifferent, this so-called wave does not constitute any significant trend. For example, the participation both in the first and the second round (148,821 and 134,420 votes respectively) was much lower than that in the election for New Democracys leader in 2015 (404,078 votes), and for PASOKs leader in 2021 (270,706 votes), and even for the merely symbolic 2022 SYRIZA leadership contest when 150,000 votes were cast with only one candidate standing, Tsipras.

Moreover, this minor wave consists of mainly petty-bourgeois and middle-class elements who, after the collapse of SYRIZA and Tsipras withdrawal, are desperate to find a political Messiah. Alongside them, there are younger, educated elements, also mainly middle-class, with no previous links to the Left, who aspire to climb into state positions. And, of course, there are several existing party members connected to MPs or party bureaucrats that had the foresight to correctly discern the winner and side with him out of self-interest.

Among the mass of workers and radicalised youth there was no such wave in favour of Kasselakis (or any other candidate). This was emphatically confirmed by the local election results. Kasselakis is being increasingly treated like a single use leader for SYRIZA, who will do the dirty job of accelerating its bourgeois degeneration by driving out any left-wing cadres remaining in the party, and promoting a SYRIZA-PASOK coalition as an alternative pillar of support for the regime.

KKE: electoral rise that poses historical tasks

The results for the front of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) showed a uniform rise relative to the 2019 elections / Image: NikosLikomitros, Wikimedia Commons

The results for the front of the Communist Party of Greece (KKE), Laiki Sispirosi (People's Rally), showed a uniform rise relative to the 2019 elections across the country, in all regions and most municipalities. In Attica, where the majority of the working class lives and works, it also represented an increase compared to the partys general election result in June.

In several regions, including Attica and Thessaly, and in many municipalities including most of those of the wider Athens and Piraeus area, the percentage for Laiki Sispirosi was between 12 and 16 percent. Furthermore, it won six municipalities, including Patras (the third largest in the country) for the third consecutive time, and Chaidari, Petroupoli and Kaisariani in Athens.

In the municipality of Athens, Laiki Sispirosi could have comfortably passed the second round and attempted to win. The leadership of the KKE itself bears serious responsibility for thwarting this by failing to propose electoral cooperation to the extra-parliamentary Left.

On the other side, the coalition of small, left-wing, extra-parliamentary organisations should have promptly and publicly proposed electoral cooperation with the KKE, with a joint ballot. If refused, these organisations should have taken the decision to critically support the KKEs front, in order to increase the chances of a communist candidate passing on to the second round, as well as to prevent Kasidiaris from doing so.

After its latest electoral success, the KKE must rise to the task. Simply stating that the party is for 100 percent opposition to the governments of the ruling class is incorrect. Instead, the party should raise the need for the working class to fight for power on the basis of a communist programme.

This requires a theoretical strengthening of the KKE activists, with (for example) a genuine Marxist and Leninist assessment of the historical experience of the Stalinist regimes in the USSR, Eastern Europe, etc. The party must also advance transitional demands to raise the sights of the masses, such as nationalisations and workers control.

Regarding the labour movement, there should be serious preparation for lasting struggles against the government, of which all the municipalities that the party controls must decisively become a part. United front tactics are required to galvanise workers to struggle collectively for their interests. In other words, the main and imperative task now is to Leninise the party.
Guy Fieri takes a second fresh bite of the Mobile-area dining scene on Friday, as Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives detours to Daphne.

The destination this time? Chef Jeremiah Matthews Southwood Kitchen, a spot along U.S. 98 that has emerged as one of the areas most creative dining options. According the Food Networks synopsis of the episode, titled Sandwich-Fest, itll feature Fieri digging into some delicious fall-off-the-bone pork and a dynamite dip.

Thatd be Southwoods Snake River Wagyu French Dip sandwich, named for the Idaho-based farm that provides the beef. Its not something you can just whip up in your kitchen in a few minutes: The recipe, as published by the Food Network, calls for nearly 14 hours of prep time. (A lot of that is overnight chilling time to allow the flavor from a seasoning rub to work its way into the meat.)

Jeremiah Matthews and Tracy Lynn Ong of Southwood Kitchen.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com

The episode is the second of a series featuring Mobile-area restaurants, following one on Oct. 20 that showcased The Noble South in downtown Mobile. Fieri is thought to have visited six area venues over the summer; two more new episodes featuring Mobile stops are scheduled for Nov. 10 and 17, though the Food Network has yet to confirm which restaurants will be featured.

Matthews, like chef Chris Rainosek at The Noble South, said his experience with the show was positive.

So they did two dishes, they did the French dip and they did the pork shank, which are two of our staples that we probably sell the most of, definitely the French dip, said Matthews. (That pork dish, just FYI, is presented as Crispy Kurobuta Pork Shank, served with horseradish Robuchon potatoes, braising jus, carrots & peas and a pork rind gremolata.)

It was a blast, said Matthews, praising the professionalism of the production crew. Man, it was two days of filming. You know, the first day they kind of shoot you walking through every step of every single item in the recipe. If its an onion, you show them how its diced. So you have everything laid out and you shoot everything the first day without Guy and then they come back the second day and then you do it all the way, the same way you did it before, but with Guy. But he was a blast to work with.

He was a down to earth guy, said Matthews. Hes very knowledgeable. I mean, we talked food for 45 minutes. Hes a pretty easy guy to talk to.

Don't take it for granted that you'll find an open seat at Southwood Kitchen in Daphne.Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com

Matthew said he was pleased to find substance behind Fieris celebrity.

Actually he knows food, he said. Hes a real-deal chef.

Where the Noble South episode also featured Lower Alabama restaurateur Panini Pete Blohme, the Southwood segment involves Jeffrey Stretch Rumaner, a Kansas City-based artist and restaurateur who has worked and appeared with Fieri on a variety of projects.

That dudes a trip, man. He was, he was a lot of fun to work with too, said Matthews. Hes got several restaurants  hes got a rock and roll band, yeah, that dudes a nut.

The Sandwich-Fest episode of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives will premiere at 8 p.m. Central time on Friday, Oct. 27. The episode also will feature Wagyu meatloaf served in Omaha and bao and a Reuben found at a deli in Stanford, Connecticut. More airings follow at 11 p.m. Friday; 10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10; and 1 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 11.

Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives can be seen via cable and streaming providers that carry the Food Network, and via www.foodnetwork.com. Streaming services that carry Food Network programming include Philo and FuboTV.
The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission on Thursday adopted a plan for evaluating business license applicants that calls for licenses to be issued in January, with products hopefully available about three months later.

Under the new plan, the AMCC will hear presentations from license applicants in late November and early December. The AMCC will award licenses in early December. After a due diligence period that will include site inspections, as well as an opportunity for investigative hearings for applicants denied licenses, the AMCC plans to issue licenses on Jan. 9.

AMCC Chair Rex Vaughn said if the timeline holds, products should be available in the spring of 2024, considering what he said was an approximate 90-day window from the start of cultivation to sales starting in licensed dispensaries.

During a meeting Thursday at the Alabama State House, the 12-member AMCC followed through on a plan started at its last meeting two weeks ago, when it approved new rules that will allow the 90 business license applicants to make presentations to the commission.

The AMCC awarded licenses in June and again in August but put a hold on those decisions both times because of mistakes and because of lawsuits filed by applicants. More than 25 companies are listed as parties in a consolidated lawsuit pending in Montgomery County Circuit Court.

To some extent, the litigation is moving in tandem with the AMCCs efforts. On Wednesday, Circuit Judge James Anderson modified a temporary restraining order to allow the AMCC to take certain steps to move the process forward.

Vaughn said he believes the plan to allow companies to make presentations to the board will help resolve some of the disputes over who gets the limited number of licenses.

I think it will give every applicant an equal opportunity to give their game plan as to what they want to do in this industry, Vaughn said. And every commission member to be able to see each applicant, the pros and the cons of each one. So there will be parity across the board. Cultivators. Integrators. Everyone. Everyone will have the same opportunity to have the same platform for a great presentation.

The presentations will be made at public meetings, as will the license awards. Some of the applicants have accused the AMCC of violating the states open meetings law when it met privately to consider license applicants in June and in August. Vaughn said all the proceedings will now be open.

The Legislature approved medical marijuana in 2021 and created the AMCC to oversee the new industry, which will be fully intrastate. The AMCC will license cultivators, processors, dispensaries, transporters, and testing labs, as well as integrated companies that will be authorized to cultivate, process, transport, and dispense.

The law capped the number of licensees in some categories, 12 cultivators, four processors, four dispensaries, and five integrated licensees.

Some companies that were passed over for the license awards in June and August are parties in the litigation, as are some of the companies that were picked. The AMCC has rescinded all of the licensing awards and denials it made in June and August.

Antoine Mordican Sr., of Birmingham, one of three owners of Native Black Cultivation, said he is optimistic about the chance to make his case to the AMCC. Native Black Cultivation was denied a cultivators license in June and August. The company has grown hemp under a program regulated by the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries since 2020.

This will give us the opportunity to be able to present to the commission, to be able to do this out in the public as well, so that the people can be able to see and hear from the applicants and the actual companies that are going to be running the cannabis industry here in Alabama Mordican said after Thursdays meeting. So it will allow us the opportunity for us to be able to present our purpose, our reason why it is that were doing what were doing. And most importantly, our vision that we see for Alabama.

Marty Schelper, founder and president of the Alabama Cannabis Coalition, which advocates for legalization of marijuana, said product availability is long overdue. Schelper has some doubts that will happen as early as Vaughn said was possible.

So three months, 90 days, yeah, a crop can be grown, but is there going to be an applicant that is issued a license, not just awarded a license, but issued a license, to be ready to go and get the product ready? Schelper said. I think it seems like maybe a little bit of false hope. For the citizens of the state of Alabama, I hope they can get it to them as soon as possible.

Brandon Pollard traveled from Ranburne in east Alabama to attend Thursdays AMCC meeting. Pollard, 47, said he will use medical cannabis as part of what he described as a full boat treatment of medications, supplements, and therapy for a congenital condition that causes spinal stenosis. Pollard said surgery in 2018 failed to bring him any relief and he suffers from pain and cramps.

Pollard said it takes the right form of medical cannabis to help with his pain. Pollard wants to see the Alabama-made products available, but also believes he should not have to wait on that to obtain the medication legally.

What I would also like now is to be able to get my marijuana from Colorado, Pollard said. Free market.

But the Alabama law only allows use of the products that will be made in the state.

The law says those products can include gummies, tablets, capsules, tinctures, patches, oils, and other forms allowed by the legislation.

Patients who receive a medical cannabis card from a doctor will be able to buy the products at licensed dispensaries.

The products can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, weight loss and nausea from cancer, depression, panic disorder, epilepsy, muscle spasms caused by disease or spinal cord injuries, PTSD, and others.

Long wait drags on for patients in Alabama as medical cannabis hits snags

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Birmingham-Southern plight

Birmingham-Southern Colleges future looks a little grimmer after a circuit court judge dismissed the schools lawsuit against the state treasurer for denying it a $30 million loan, reports AL.coms Mike Cason.

Weighing heavily in the decision was the word may as it appeared in legislation that allowed for the loan. Montgomery County Circuit Judge James Anderson said that even if the college were to be found that it met qualifications for the loan, the legislation said the treasurer may award loans to eligible colleges, not shall award loans.

That distinction, according to the ruling, leaves it up to the state treasurer whether to award the loan. And Alabama Treasurer Young Boozer turned down Birmingham-Southerns loan application a couple weeks ago, saying it did not meet the qualifications.

Birmingham-Southern officials have said the college is likely to close if it doesnt get public help to bridge its finances while it pursues funds from private sources. The school has 731 full-time students and 284 employees and has been open for 167 years.

School bus drivers blood-alcohol level

A Clark County school bus driver has been fired after being charged with DUI, according to WALA.

Jackson police said that after the bus drivers route was completed last Tuesday, a complaint came in, and the driver was approached outside Jackson Middle School.

Police said he failed multiple sobriety tests and then blew a 0.33 on a breathalyzer test. Thats more than 16 times the legal limit of 0.02 for a commercial vehicle or bus driver.

A little spending money

If you filed an Alabama income tax return in 2021 and were not a dependent of another taxpayer, you could be seeing a rebate show up in your bank account a little over a month from now, reports AL.coms Leada Gore.

The rebates were passed by state lawmakers in May and are courtesy of the $2.8 billion surplus in the Education Trust Fund.

The rebates should show up in your bank account if you have your tax refunds direct-deposited. Otherwise you should get a check. The amounts are $150 for single people and $300 for married couples.

Dont spend it all in one place.

Quoting

While we cannot, have not, and will not interfere with the investigation, it is also our understanding based on information provided to us by the City of Mobile administration that all investigative materials and reports have been completed and fully submitted to your office.

The Mobile City Council, in a written request calling on District Attorney Keith Blackwood to expedite the release of evidence into the investigation of the death of Jawan Dallas, who reportedly died after he was repeatedly tased by police.

Born on this date

In 1956, former United States Surgeon General Regina Benjamin of Mobile.

More Alabama news

The podcast
Two Chilton County school employees have settled their lawsuit against the school district over the systems demand to repay $56,000 in overpayments that the system only noticed years later, according to court records.

Chilton County Circuit Court Judge Sibley G. Reynolds on Wednesday dismissed the lawsuit filed by career tech teacher Shellie Smith and Verbena High School cafeteria manager Christie Payne against Chilton County Schools Superintendent Jason Griffin, citing a settlement.

Terms of the settlement was not disclosed, and efforts to reach Alabama Education Association attorneys representing the employees were not successful.

Payne and Smith received letters demanding repayment of $33,000 and $23,000, respectively. The overpayments were due to incorrectly giving the employees credit for years of experience they shouldnt have been given, the demand letters said.

In Paynes case, she had previously been the assistant manager and was incorrectly given credit for her years of experience in that position.

The employees suit claimed they were unaware of the overpayments and were not given due process, meaning they had no chance to contest the overpayment, and employees will suffer serious, adverse financial harm through no fault of their own if they are required to pay the money back.

In Paynes case, the $23,000 error was caught after six years, while the mistake in Smiths situation was noticed four years later, according to the AEA.

Griffin earlier told AL.com that the district was following the law by trying to recoup the overpayments.

We are mindful of the financial impact that this matter can have on our employees, and we are working to balance that impact with our obligation to recover the funds, he said in an interview last year.
An outside attorney will represent the city of Decatur in the case of possible disciplinary proceedings against the police officers who were at Stephen Perkins house on Sept. 29, the night an officer shot and killed him.

At a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Mayor Tab Bowling said the city is hiring Huntsville attorney Robert Lockwood to ensure thoroughness, impartiality and promptness in the investigation and potential disciplinary proceedings.

I believe the city will be best served utilizing outside legal counsel to help us with matters related to the officer-involved shooting, the mayor said. Robert Lockwood will serve as the lead person overseeing the investigations that are under the city of Decaturs purview and an external lead will help ensure impartiality as well as minimize any potential conflicts of interest as the investigation continues.

A police report released on Sept. 29 said Perkins had a gun and turned it toward an officer before the shooting. Security camera footage appeared to show that police officers were hiding beside his house while a tow truck driver attempted to repossess his vehicle before the shooting. Perkins came out in the dark and asked the driver to put the truck down, and a police officer came from the side of the house and shot Perkins.

Attorney Lockwood will provide advice and assistance in matters related to the employment of the police officers at Perkins house on the 3900 Block of Ryan Drive that night. He explained that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is separately investigating the officers possible criminal liability.

My main goal is to ensure that the city of Decatur promptly and diligently complies with the obligations imposed by Alabama law for the employment of police officers, Lockwood explained at the press conference today.

The attorney could not provide a timeline for the process as the internal investigation by the department is still ongoing, which is the first step. He said his job is to follow the applicable Alabama law on the process municipalities should follow to suspend or terminate a law enforcement officer.

My main goal in this process is to ensure that any proceedings are fair to all concerned  that includes the citizens of Decatur, the family of Stephen Perkins, and the police officers in question, he said. And for proceedings to be fair, Alabama law and certain policies have to be followed.

The first step is for the City of Decatur Police Department to complete its investigation of the facts and circumstances surrounding the September 29th, 2023 event. Upon completion of that investigation, the Chief of Police will forward any findings to the City of Decatur Legal Office and to my office. And then we will determine what disciplinary action, if any, is appropriate. If we do determine that disciplinary action is appropriate, any police officer subject to potential discipline will receive a notice of possible disciplinary action and determination. Then I will represent the interests of the city of Decatur in a pre-disciplinary hearing before a neutral body with authority to impose that discipline.

Lockwood said the body will then make a recommendation of termination or any potential employment action at issue and then once that recommendation is made, then ultimately any employment decision will be made by the mayors office as required by Alabama law.

Police Chief Todd Pinion had announced an internal investigation into what officers did in the early hours of Sept. 29. He said in an Oct. 11 press release that the review would include looking into the use of force as well as the officers actions after the shooting and possible policy revision.

We recognize the communitys and our own desire for a speedy investigation, but this must not sacrifice the integrity of the administrative investigation as well, Pinion said at todays press conference. So were continuing in that process and moving right along.

The officer who pulled the trigger is on administrative leave, while the other two officers have been assigned office duties.

Daily protests have been ongoing in Decatur since Perkins death, with calls for the termination and prosecution of the officers.

The message from the citizens of Decatur has been received loud and clear, but at the same time, an adequate investigation has to be completed, Lockwood said today. Im here to make sure thats done, that its done promptly, that its done diligently. But that its done fairly at the same time.
Scientists have found a new population of endangered, cave-dwelling bats in a part of Alabama where there are no caves.

The previously unknown population could be a ray of hope for the northern long-eared bat, which has been listed as an endangered species mostly due to losses from white-nose syndrome, a disease that has decimated the northern long-eared and other species of cave-dwelling bat in North America.

Coastal Alabama can be added to the list of locations where these bats may survive white-nose syndrome, Nick Sharp, a biologist with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, said in a news release.

The ADNCR announced Wednesday that researchers earlier this year had discovered a breeding population of the northern long-eared bat in the Perdido River Wildlife Management Area in eastern Baldwin County.

A male and two pregnant females were captured in May during a bat survey in a tract of land purchased for permanent protection through the states Forever Wild Land Trust program, which uses the interest collected on royalties from Alabamas offshore oil and gas rigs to purchase sensitive land for conservation.

ADCNR said the species had not previously been documented in southwest Alabama, but researchers began looking along the Alabama coast after reports of colonies in coastal North Carolina and South Carolina.

Sharp said the Alabama population appears to be unusual in that the bats seem to live in the woods year-round and do not hibernate in caves over the winter.

This discovery is significant as there are no caves in these locations and the bats apparently do not hibernate, Sharp said. Rather, they are active year-round and therefore not exposed to white-nose syndrome.

The northern long-eared bat was one of the most common bats in eastern North America, but its populations have been decimated in recent decades by white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has ravaged cave-dwelling bats in the United States.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, once white-nose takes hold in a cave, it can kill 97-100% of the northern long-eared bats in that habitat. Due to extreme population declines, the northern long-eared bat was listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act in 2022.

The new coastal Alabama population was first discovered in May, during Alabamas annual Bat Blitz, a gathering of bat researchers in varying locations across the state to inventory local bat populations.

Biologists with the ADCNR, the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Alabama Bat Working Group then returned to the site in June to search for a maternal colony. They were able to capture another male and a lactating female bat, indicating that the female had given birth in the area.

The bats were fitted with radio-tags in an attempt to track them to their daytime roost, but the effort was unsuccessful, Sharp said. However, the ability to return to the site and catch more northern long-eared bats substantiates a resident, breeding population in the area.

Chris Blankenship, ADCNR Commissioner and Chair of the Forever Wild Land Trust Board of Trustees, said the state has been working to acquire land along the Perdido River corridor for protection.

The discovery of this endangered species in the area we are working to protect is further evidence of the importance of this land in eastern Baldwin County, Blankenship said in the news release.
The head of Floridas university system has directed schools to disband campus chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group he alleges are in support of terrorism.

In a letter Tuesday to the states 12 university presidents, State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues said the Florida chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine must be deactivated.

He said that a toolkit released by the group described the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel as the resistance and unequivocally states: Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not in solidarity with this movement.

The letter contended that the national Students for Justice in Palestine organization has affirmatively identified that it was part of the attack, and said its a felony in Florida to knowingly provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Rodrigues closed by stating the university system is working with Gov. Ron DeSantis to ensure we are all using all tools at our disposal to crack down on campus demonstrations that delve beyond protected First Amendment speech into harmful support for terrorist groups.

He added that state action could include necessary adverse employment actions and suspensions for school officials.

Free speech issues

The chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Florida responded with a statement calling the move disgraceful.

Governor DeSantis continues to disrespect American values such as freedom of speech to extend his political power, the statement said in part. To bend the law in this manner shows the utmost disrespect not only to any pro-Palestinian organization, but also to anyone who truly cares for political freedom and freedom of speech.

It added that the states action could set a precedent to shut down any organization that doesnt align with DeSantis ideals.

Rodrigues letter identifies at least two chapters of the group and says the universities may allow those student to form new organizations that comply with state law.

Responding to questions, a state university system spokesperson indicated in an email the two universities mentioned in the letter are UF and the University of South Florida. Students for Justice in Palestine appears to have active chapters at three additional schools  Florida State University, Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University  but it was not immediately clear why they were not cited as well.

An FIU spokeswoman said Wednesday that Students for Justice in Palestine is not a currently registered student group. Joshua Glanzer, an FAU spokesman, said in an email the Boca Raton-based university doesnt have an active SJP chapter.

Leaders of the national organization and the USF chapter did not immediately respond to requests for comment late Tuesday.

Rodrigues message builds on a previous letter he sent on Oct. 9 with state education commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. That letter cautioned protesters who might go too far in criticizing Israel and reminded universities of their obligations to punish violators of two state laws.

It cited House Bill 741, which DeSantis signed into law in 2019, setting requirements for public schools, colleges and universities to address discrimination against Jewish students and employees. It also pointed to House Bill 269, which DeSantis signed this year to establish stronger criminal penalties for committing certain antisemitic crimes.

Antisemitism alleged

In the wake of the Hamas attack and Israels response with the war in Gaza, Rodrigues and Diaz attempted to define actions that constituted antisemitism under Florida law.

Israel not only has the right to defend itself against these heinous attacks, but it has a duty to respond with overwhelming force, their letter said. Florida unequivocally stands with Israel and the Jewish people during this difficult moment in history.

It said antisemitic actions include calling for, aiding, or justifying the killing or harming of Jews, often in the name of a radical ideology or an extremist view of religion. Another example: Applying a double standard to Israel by requiring behavior of Israel that is not expected or demanded of any other democratic nation, or focusing peace or human rights investigations only in Israel.

Joseph Nohava  an organizer with Tampa Bay Community Action Committee, which has organized several rallies  said the letters lack nuance. He noted that protesters who are Jewish have spoken against the Israeli government.

The whole thing is absurd, Nohava said. It doesnt sound like something that would hold up in court as something compliant with the First Amendment.... Israel doesnt represent Judaism. You dont conflate a whole religion with a state committing war crimes. Thats the most insane, antisemitic idea you can imagine.

Nohava said hes concerned over rhetoric painting Palestinians as antisemitic. He said he knows protesters who have received death threats and images of their houses mailed to them.

Enya Silva, a member of Students for a Democratic Society, said she found the definitions to be absurd.

I think we have power in numbers, she said. We shouldnt be afraid to come out and speak out for being on the right side of history.

Zach Greenberg, a program manager with the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, said the Oct. 9 letter from Rodrigues and Diaz raised concerns for him.

They risk killing free speech, he said. Under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, he said, even offensive and hateful speech is protected.

Its important for people to know that when it comes to hot button issues, the right to free speech becomes more important, he said. It protects your rights and your adversaries rights.

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(Miami Herald staff writer Jimena Tavel contributed to this report)

_____

2023 Miami Herald. Visit at miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Former U.S. Senate Majority Leaders Tom Daschle and Trent Lott said Thursday they were hopeful that new U.S. House Speaker Michael Johnson can be an effective leader in a polarized Congress.

Johnson became the 56th Speaker of the House following the tumultuous weeks the chamber had without a Speaker after the October ouster of California U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy.

Lott, a Mississippi Republican who served in the Senate from 1989-2007, said he is scheduled to meet with Johnson next week. He said he will urge the Louisiana Republican to approach the job with an open mind when dealing with differing political interests.

Ill tell him things that Tom and I did to get things done, said Lott, who developed a close relationship with Daschle in the 1990s and early 2000s, as the two rotated leadership positions during the Bush Administration.

Lott, 82, said he is hopeful for the new House Speaker, a 51-year-old who first took office in 2017.

Daschle, 75, a Democrat from South Dakota who served in the Senate from 1987-2005, said he is trusting his friends opinion over the conservative lawmakers appointment to the role.

Trent said he knows the Speaker very well and speaks highly of him, Daschle said. That encourages me. Me? I have my concerns. But if Trent has high regards, Ill start at that level.

The two former senators, who co-wrote a book about bipartisanship in 2016, were at the University of South Alabama as part of the 2023 Irving Silver and Frances Grodsky Silver Endowed Presidential Lectureship that included a luncheon question-and-answer session with a group of honor students at the University of South Alabama at the Mitchell Center.

U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson, R-Louisiana, speaks after he was chosen as the Republicans latest nominee for House speaker at a Republican caucus meeting at the Capitol in Washington on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.Jose Luis Magana | The Associated Press

Lott called Johnson very conservative, but someone who was more moderate in his demeanor.

Johnson has come under fire by Democrats in recent days for his past record that includes close alliance with former President Donald Trump, and for his staunch opposition toward abortion and LGBTQ rights. Johnson, according to published reports, once likened abortion to a holocaust and linked the judicial philosophy that legalized the right to an abortion to Adolph Hitler.

Hes a devout Christian, hes conservative so right to life is an important issue to him, Lott said. That doesnt mean he cant deal wit the issue to get results where you have to. Hes also a lawyer, a constitutional lawyer.

Former Democratic U.S. Senator Tom Daschle of South Dakota participates in a question-and-answer session with students from the University of South Alabama during a presentation on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in the John Counts Room inside the Mitchell Center in Mobile, Ala.John Sharp/jsharp@al.com

Daschle said that Johnson has the opportunity to write a completely different approach to the way he looks at his role in Congress.

I think both Senator Lott and I can say from personal experiences, its one thing to be a congressman or a senator, but its entirely different to be a Speaker or Majority Leader, Daschle said. The Speakers are really the leaders of the entire body. If he acts and speaks as that leader, he has a new opportunity to redefine himself and step up to the plate and bring both parties together. Im very hopeful hell do that.

Lott said hes already concerned, though, with Johnsons past vote on international military aid. Johnson is an opponent to providing aid to Ukraine at at time when the Biden Administration is seeking a nearly $106 billion request from Congress to support military efforts in Israel, Ukraine as well as other national security needs.

Former Republican U.S. Senator Trent Lott of Mississippi participates in a question-and-answer session with students during a luncheon at University of South Alabama's Mitchell Center on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Mobile, Ala.John Sharp/jsharp@al.com

He voted against the Ukraine vote, and I disagreed with him, Lott said. I would convince him that is a mistake and that if we dont stop Russia and Ukraine, well have to deal with (Russian aggression) in the Baltic states or Poland. But there was maybe some reason for (Johnsons stance). For instance, in the case of Ukraine, we put a lot of money there. Is it all going for missile and defense or is it all going to help small businesses and humanitarian aid? I would not be for that.

He added, The first thing (Johnson) will have to do is ... break it up into pieces. It takes more time to do, but you wont be able to ram through a package that big which is over $100 billion.

Lott said the prolonged Speaker fight left him upset, calling it not good for the Republican Party. He quoted Thomas Paine, saying these are the times that try mens soul, adding that he would have supported efforts to keep McCarthy in the Speakership.

I would have voted against (Ohio Republican Rep. Jim) Jordan and would have voted for (Louisiana Rep. Steve) Scalise, said Lott. I think Mike Johnson was a good compromise candidate.
Georgia Lt. Gov. Burt Jones is backing a proposal to offer public school teachers a $10,000 annual stipend to take voluntary firearms courses and carry guns in school. He would also devote more funding for public safety officers.

Surrounded by local officials at a Barrow County elementary school, Jones said Wednesday that the proposed legislation would protect those who are most vulnerable even as he made clear he wouldnt support new limits on firearms.

Its sad, but it is the sign of the times that we have to go to these lengths to protect our children, but its just where we are, said Jones, who characterized the proposal as a response to mass shootings at schools.

State Sen. Clint Dixon, a sponsor of the legislation, said it would ensure teachers are more equipped to handle security threats and prepare schools for emergency situations.

Critics of the policies worry that encouraging teachers to arm themselves would lead to more violence in the classrooms and create a dangerous incentive for teachers to carry weapons to pad their paychecks.

We are not law enforcement personnel and should not be seen in those roles, said Lisa Morgan, president of the Georgia Association of Educators, one of the states largest teacher advocacy groups.

She noted that a significant number of teachers report being assaulted by students. What if a kid were able to seize the teachers gun?

It is not going to make our schools safer, she said. Im just horrified as to the things that could go wrong with a weapon in the classroom.

Georgia has sought to arm more teachers before, with limited impact. A 2014 law allowed local school districts to decide whether to arm teachers and staff, though only Cobb and Laurens counties have taken that step.

Its not immediately clear how much the program Jones endorsed would cost, but state Senate leaders said they would seek an estimate from budget analysts.

State Sen. Max Burns, R-Sylvania, said arming more teachers could help schools save money in the long term if districts dont have to hire as many security officers, who usually cost about $80,000 a year.

I have school systems that have no school resource officers, and thats a very troubling environment, Burns said. So the sheriffs in the communities will partner with school systems.

Democrats have long said that tighter restrictions on who can buy firearms and where they can carry them is a more effective way to prevent mass shootings than bolstering security at schools and other seemingly safe places that have become scenes of violence.

Jones, who was elected last year to Georgias No. 2 job, is pushing the proposal as he aims to play a more influential role in state politics.

In his first legislative session as leader of the Georgia Senate, he helped push through several foster care initiatives and a new gang crackdown. He also presided over a failed effort to split Atlanta into two municipalities, bringing the Buckhead cityhood initiative to a vote even after Gov. Brian Kemps administration warned it would create a legal disaster.

And he fought for a rewrite of health care regulations that could have paved the way for a hospital in his hometown, potentially on land owned by his father, before opting to wait another year to press the issue. It was another break from Kemp, whose allies lobbied against the overhaul.

Jones, meanwhile, has tried to bolster his own power base independent of the governor. Hes aligned with Donald Trumps brand of politics and was the most prominent statewide Republican to win last year with the former presidents endorsement.

He was also the highest-ranking Republican to appear at the Georgia GOP convention earlier this year that featured an address from Trump. Kemp and other top officials boycotted the event.

With vast personal wealth and a direct line to Trump, Jones is expected to seek higher office in 2026, when the governors office and a U.S. Senate seat are up for grabs.

Proposals such as the plan he unveiled Wednesday are ways he can differentiate himself from his rivals and stake an early claim on an issue that could factor prominently in his next campaign.

Among his potential rivals is U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath, a Democrat who ran for office on a pledge to enact new gun control legislation after the shooting death of her teenage son. She and other critics of expansive gun policies say rejecting new firearms limits is misguided and dangerous.

Georgia teachers should be armed with books and supplies, not guns, McBath said. For too long they have been forced to purchase school supplies with their own money. Instead of listening, Burt Jones is furthering his extremist agenda at the expense of our kids.

Pressed on whether he would back gun control measures to limit school shootings, Jones said: Were not talking about that. Were just talking about trying to protect the school systems right now.

Under the proposal, school systems would have to approve a firearms training regimen before it could be offered to teachers on a voluntary basis. Jones said its modeled after a Texas proposal that would let teachers complete firearm lessons but has drawn few participants.

Jones initiative is part of a trend of increased security at U.S. schools amid a spate of mass shootings, such as the 2022 massacre at Uvalde, Texas, where 19 children and two teachers were killed in one of the deadliest school shootings in the nations history.

A federal study showed that two-thirds of public schools now control access to school grounds, and an estimated 43% of public schools have a panic button or silent alarm installed. About 78% equip classrooms with locks. All are marked increases from the 2017-2018 school year.

Earlier this year, Kemp signed into law a requirement that schools carry out an annual active shooter drill involving teachers and students, although the latter group can opt out of the training.

And lawmakers have devoted roughly $200 million in one-time funds for school security grants since 2019, including a $115 million fund approved earlier this year that distributed $50,000 school safety grants to all of Georgias K-12 schools.

Barrow County Sheriff Jud Smith, who endorsed Jones proposal, said hes not concerned that arming teachers could contribute to a volatile security environment.

Were trusting these folks to teach our young people  our most valuable asset, Smith said. Were going to trust them if they get this training, they can be armed and we have a force multiplier in case there is an incident that happens.

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2023 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Visit at ajc.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A trial date has been set for Carlee Russells appeal of her municipal conviction of faking her own abduction.

Russell, 26, pleaded not guilty on Oct. 11 to charges of false reporting to law enforcement authorities and falsely reporting an incident.

Despite her plea, Hoover Municipal Judge Brad Bishop found her guilty based on the recommendation of state prosecutors.

Bishop recommended one year in jail and $17,874 in restitution. He also recommended two fines of $831 each.

Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff Circuit Judge David Carpenter on Thursday issued an order setting the jury trial for March 18 at 9 a.m.

In municipal court, there is no jury trial. The constitution allows anyone who faces jail time to have their case heard and decided by a jury of their peers.

Bishop explained that often defendants will appeal his verdict to Jefferson County Circuit Court to take the case to a jury trial.

Russell, represented by attorneys Emory Anthony and Richard Jaffe, appealed to the circuit court.

Anthony said following the municipal hearing they would appeal the verdict because state prosecutors want Russell to serve jail time. Anthony said Russells legal team completely disagrees with jail time for a Class A misdemeanor, especially when its Russells first offense.

Russell seemingly vanished Thursday, July 13, after calling 911, and a family member, to report seeing a child, about 3 or 4 years old only wearing a diaper, walking alone on I-459.

The family member reported hearing a scream, and then only interstate noise through the open cell phone line.

Russells disappearance sparked a massive search and widespread concern.

Two days later, Russell showed up alone at her parents Hoover home. She was taken to UAB Hospital for evaluation.

While in the hospital, Russell told Hoover police she escaped the clutches of a man and woman who abducted her. She did not speak with Hoover investigators again after that initial interview.

Asked why Russell faked her own abduction, Anthony previously said thats something that will eventually come to light.

Were dealing with issues with Carlee, and we want the best for Carlee, Anthony said. We realize a mistake was made but we dont want to just pile on right now.
The latest mass killing in the U.S. happened Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, when a man opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar, killing at least 16 people, two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press. Dozens of people were also wounded.

The alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8 p.m. as the sheriffs office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating two active shooter events.

The man identified as a person of interest in a mass killing in Maine is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin.

The shooting was the countrys 36th mass killing this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. At least 188 people have died in those killings, which are defined as incidents in which four or more people have died within a 24-hour period, not including the killer  the same definition used by the FBI.

So far this year, the nation has witnessed the second-highest number on record of mass killings and deaths to this point in a single year. Only 2019 had more mass killings. According to the database, there have been more than 560 mass killings since 2006, in which at least 2,900 people died and at least 2,000 were injured.

Heres what happened in the other U.S. mass killings this year.

ROMEOVILLE, ILLINOIS: Sept. 17

A couple, their two children  ages 7 and 9  and three dogs were found fatally shot in their suburban Chicago home. Police were asked to check on the family after one member did not show for work that morning and phone calls went unanswered, authorities said. A 32-year-old man was suspected in the deaths. He died days later after a fiery crash in Oklahoma, along with a passenger, and had a relationship with the victims, police said.

LAKE TOWNSHIP, OHIO: Aug. 24

Five members of a family, including three children, were found dead at a home in Lake Township, Ohio, by police officers performing a welfare check. Authorities say a husband and wife and their two daughters and son died from gunshot wounds and their deaths are being investigated as a domestic dispute that turned deadly. Its unclear who fired the shots.

OKLAHOMA CITY: Aug. 16

Police in Oklahoma City said a 28-year-old man fatally shot three young children  ages 9, 5 and 2  and his estranged wife before taking his own life. Officers visited the family home following a report of a domestic disturbance. Authorities described the couple as married but separated and said police had never been called to a domestic disturbance at the home before. They added that investigators have not yet determined a motive.

HAMPTON, GEORGIA: July 15

A 40-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting four people, all in their 60s, in a suburb south of Atlanta. Police said the mans motive was not immediately clear. The killings set off a massive search that ended with a shootout that killed the man in another suburb about 15 miles (24 kilometers) away. The exchange of gunfire wounded a sheriffs deputy and two police officers.

SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA: July 4

Multiple males are believed to have exchanged gunfire at an annual Independence Day block party just before midnight, leaving at least four people dead and at least seven others injured, according to police. Suspects were not quickly identified, and arrests were not immediately made.

PHILADELPHIA: July 3

A 40-year-old man is accused of opening fire randomly with an AR-15-style rifle, killing four people and wounding four others, including a 2-year-old, in a southwest Philadelphia neighborhood. Authorities said the man fatally shot another person in a row house the day before.

GREEN POND, SOUTH CAROLINA: July 2

A 33-year-old man was charged with murder in the killings of his sister-in-law and 11-year-old daughter after authorities found six people dead and one person in critical condition at a home while responding to reports of a house fire and stabbings, officials said. They did not immediately identify a motive. The man was later charged in connection with the other four deaths, according to media reports.

KELLOGG, IDAHO: June 18

A 31-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting four members of a neighboring family in their apartment on Fathers Day. The man was upset that the neighbors 18-year-old son had reportedly exposed himself to the mans children, a police document alleges.

SEQUATCHIE, TENNESSEE: June 15

A 48-year-old man is thought to be responsible for killing himself and five others  including three children and his estranged wife  in a home where police responded to a shooting and arrived to find the residence ablaze, authorities said. A seventh person suffered gunshot wounds and was found alive at the home after firefighters extinguished the flames.

MESA, ARIZONA: May 26

A 20-year-old man shot four men to death and wounded a woman in a 12-hour crime spree in metro Phoenix, authorities said. He told police that he met the victims at random that day at a range of places, including a park and a convenience store, and became angry when the subject of drugs came up.

NASH, TEXAS: May 23

Authorities jailed an 18-year-old man in connection with the shootings of his parents, sister and brother inside a home. A victims co-worker who went to the home after one of the victims failed to show up for work told police that the man said he had killed his family because they were cannibals, and they were going to eat him.

ALLEN, TEXAS: May 6

A 33-year-old man with an arsenal of legally-purchased firearms killed eight people and wounded seven others at a Dallas-area shopping center. He had posted online about his white supremacist and misogynistic views. A police officer fatally shot him within four minutes.

LAKE WALES, FLORIDA: May 2

A 38-year-old man was suspected of fatally shooting a woman and her three children after police were called to an apartment complex where they found the bodies. After an hourslong standoff at a motel, police fatally shot the man.

HENRYETTA, OKLAHOMA: May 1

A 39-year-old man fatally shot his wife, her three children and their two friends before killing himself, authorities said. They were all found dead on his rural property. He was a convicted rapist who had been freed from prison early, despite facing new sex charges in a separate case.

MOJAVE, CALIFORNIA: April 30

Four people were found fatally shot inside an RV in a remote Mojave Desert community, authorities said. There were no immediate arrests, but two people were being sought for questioning as persons of interest.

CLEVELAND, TEXAS: April 28

A 38-year-old man was arrested after a four-day manhunt. Authorities allege that the man charged into a neighbors home and killed five people, including a 9-year-old boy, after his neighbors asked him to stop firing his AR-style rifle because a baby was trying to sleep.

BOWDOIN, MAINE: April 18

A 32-year-old man confessed to fatally shooting four people, including his parents, at a home. From there he fled and fired shots at moving vehicles on a highway. Several vehicles were hit by gunfire but the three people injured were a family all in the same car.

DADEVILLE, ALABAMA: April 15

Six suspects  ages 15 to 20  were charged with reckless murder in connection with a shooting at a Sweet 16 birthday party that killed four people and injured at least 32 others. Two high school seniors were killed. The other two killed were 19 and 23.

LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY: April 10

A 25-year-old bank employee armed with a rifle opened fire at his workplace, killing five people  including a close friend of Kentuckys governor  while livestreaming the attack on Instagram, authorities said. Police arrived as shots were still being fired inside Old National Bank and killed the shooter during an exchange of gunfire.

MONROE, LOUISIANA: March 31

A 37-year-old man was arrested on arson and murder charges after a fire killed four people in a home, KNOE-TV reported.

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: March 27

A 28-year-old killed three children and three adults in a shooting at a small Christian elementary school before being killed by police. The shooter was a former student there. Police have said the shooter was assigned female at birth but used masculine pronouns on social media.

SUMTER, SOUTH CAROLINA: March 21

A 42-year-old former soldier shot and killed three children as they slept in their home while their mother frantically sought help, authorities said. He also killed an Army soldier who was at the home before killing himself. The shooter and the childrens mother were divorced.

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA: March 13 to 14

A 28-year-old man was suspected of killing four people in overnight shootings. Authorities said the man approached a police officer and said he had shot two people in Birmingham and two people in St. Clair County.

DALLAS, TEXAS: March 12

An 18-year-old man and 20-year-old woman were charged in the fatal shootings of four people at an apartment. They told police theyd broken into the home to take money. The man admitted to shooting all of the victims. The woman had dated one of the victims, and they were involved in a custody dispute over their son. An infant was found unharmed at the scene.

MIAMI LAKES, FLORIDA: March 10

Police found three females and two males dead from apparent gunshot wounds inside a home, officials said. The wounds of one man appeared to be self-inflicted, leading investigators to believe the case was a murder-suicide.

COCOA, FLORIDA: March 1

A 36-year-old man was arrested after fatally shooting his teenage daughter, her mother and two other people, authorities said. Deputies responded after one of two surviving children had called a relative for help.

DAPHNE, ALABAMA: Feb. 22

A 21-year-old man was accused of killing his grandparents, his brother and a family friend with a handgun and pickaxe. Their bodies were found in the backyard of his grandparents home and inside a bedroom in the house, police said.

ARKABUTLA, MISSISSIPPI: Feb. 17

A 52-year-old man shot and killed six people including his ex-wife and stepfather at multiple locations in a tiny rural community, authorities said. The man was armed with a shotgun and two handguns. A family friend said he had a history of mental illness. One victim was shot and killed while sitting in a pickup truck outside a convenience store.

LUTTRELL, TENNESSEE: Jan. 29

A 52-year-old man who complained of having a devil in his head fatally shot four children in his home before setting the residence ablaze and shooting himself, according to a prosecutor. The children were ages 5 to 15.

HALF MOON BAY, CALIFORNIA: Jan. 23

A 66-year-old man was charged with killing seven people in back-to-back shootings at two mushroom farms. He pleaded not guilty. Prosecutors said he opened fire at the mushroom farm where he worked, killing four co-workers and wounding another one. They said he then drove to a mushroom farm he was fired from in 2015 and fatally shot three former co-workers.

MONTEREY PARK, CALIFORNIA: Jan. 21

A 72-year-old man opened fire on a mostly elderly crowd at a Lunar New Year dance, killing 11 people and wounding nine. The man later died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. The massacre has been called the deadliest shooting in Los Angeles County history.

GOSHEN, CALIFORNIA: Jan. 16

Authorities announced more than two dozen arrests during a gang crackdown following the fatal shootings of six people  including a teenage mother and her baby  that investigators believe stemmed from a gang rivalry. Two men have pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.

CLEVELAND, OHIO: Jan. 13

A 41-year-old man was accused of fatally shooting his father, sister and nephew as well as another man and critically wounding an 8-year-old girl. The man pleaded not guilty. Police alleged that he shot victims in the head in different rooms of a home, then flagged down a police cruiser and directed officers to the scene.

HIGH POINT, NORTH CAROLINA: Jan. 7

A 45-year-old man fatally shot his wife and three children and then himself. Authorities said all five lived together in the home. Two others escaped the house. One of the survivors was a relative of the family and another was an acquaintance. Both were in their 20s.

ENOCH, UTAH: Jan. 4

A 42-year-old man fatally shot his five children, his mother-in-law and his wife and then killed himself two weeks after his wife filed for divorce. Child protective services had opened an investigation of the man on child abuse and threats to his family just weeks before the killing.
A man fatally shot at least 18 people and injured 13 others at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night sparking a massive search for a person of interest who is a trained firearms instructor. Meanwhile, authorities urged residents to lock themselves in their homes and schools announced closures on Thursday.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened:

WHO IS THE SUSPECT?

A police bulletin identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the attack. Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition, but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base.

Card had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Robert Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed the shooter walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder has been issued.

As more victims are identified, the counts will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Police responded to a very fast moving, very dangerous scene, Ross said, noting that seven people were found dead at the bowling alley and eight at the bar, including one victim who was outside. All had gunshot wounds. Three people who were taken to hospitals also died, Ross said.

WHERE DID THE SHOOTING TAKE PLACE?

Lewiston Police said they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

The bowling alley is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown, and offers traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin, a variant found in New England.

Lewiston is the second largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000. It emerged as a major center for African immigration into Maine. The Somali population, which numbers in the thousands, has changed the demographics of the once overwhelmingly white mill city into one of the most diverse in northern New England.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

SHELTER IN PLACE, SCHOOLS AND FACILITIES CLOSED

A shelter-in-place advisory was issued Wednesday for Androscoggin County, including the community of Lisbon, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) away, after a vehicle of interest was found there, authorities said. It was extended Thursday to Bowdoin, which is in Sagadachoc County.

Local schools, including those in Lewiston, Lisbon and Auburn, were closed Thursday and schools as far away as Kennebunk, an hour from Lewiston, reported closing out of caution.

Central Maine Healthcare said Thursday it was closing all physician offices in Lewiston and six surrounding communities for the day. All elective surgery was canceled at Central Maine Medical Center.

MAINE SHOOTING ANGERS PARENT OF COLLEGE STUDENT

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College in Lewiston, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed.

Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son spoke and texted late into the night and he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.

WHERE DID THE SHOOTING TAKE PLACE?

Lewiston Police said they were dealing with an active shooter incident Wednesday evening at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

The bowling alley is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown, and offers traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin, a variant found in New England.

Lewiston is the second-largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000. It emerged as a major center for African immigration into Maine. The Somali population, which numbers in the thousands, has changed the demographics of the once overwhelmingly white mill city into one of the most diverse in northern New England.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

WHAT IS THE AFTERMATH?

A shelter-in-place advisory was issued Wednesday for Androscoggin County, including the community of Lisbon, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) away, after a vehicle of interest was found there, authorities said. Bowdoin, which is in Sagadahoc County, was under a similar advisory.

The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for Card.

Central Maine Healthcare said Thursday it was closing all physician offices in Lewiston and six surrounding communities for the day. All elective surgery was canceled at Central Maine Medical Center.

Schools in multiple communities were closed out of caution Thursday, including in Kennebunk, an hour away from Lewiston. Classes also were canceled at Bates and Bowdoin colleges, and the Gorham and Portland campuses of the University of Southern Maine.

President Biden has ordered all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Monday.
A Cullman County jury has found Nathan Stephens guilty of the 2020 murder of Herndon Self.

According to the Cullman Police Department, Self was stabbed to death on Sept. 12, 2020, inside a moving vehicle near the intersection of Alabama Hwy. 157 and U.S. Hwy. 31.

Stephens  who had been incarcerated with the Alabama Department of Corrections for a burglary conviction only two days prior to the incident  fled the scene and led police on a month long manhunt before being apprehended outside of Atlanta by the Cobb County Georgia Fugitive Unit and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force.

His mother, Audrey Cofield Smith, has also been charged with hindering prosecution in connection with the murder.

Following a two-day trial tried by Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker and Assistant District Attorney Tina Burgett, the jury returned a guilty verdict late Tuesday evening.

I would first like to thank the jury for their service, the Cullman Police Department who did a great job on this case during the investigation and the other law enforcement agencies who helped capture Mr. Stephens when he fled from law enforcement, a statement sent to The Times from the district attorneys office said.

Following the verdict, Circuit Judge Gregory Nicholas remanded Stephens into custody  where he has been serving out a 75-year sentence for failing to register as a sex offender in connection to a 2002 rape conviction  pending sentencing at a later date.

___

(c)2023 The Cullman Times (Cullman, Ala.)

Visit The Cullman Times (Cullman, Ala.) at www.cullmantimes.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
While Bettersten Wade pleaded for help finding her missing son, preparations were being made to bury Dexter Wade in a paupers field at a Mississippi penal farm, NBC News reported.

Whether due to an oversight, or, as Bettersten Wade wondered, a vendetta, the Jackson woman did not know the fate of her son for seven months. Authorities knew what happened to the father of two teen daughters.

Jackson police did not respond to the outlets request for comment.

Bettersten Wade and her son got into an argument and he ran off with a friend.

She said she was reluctant to report her son missing to police because her brother was killed by a Jackson police officer who was convicted of manslaughter. The officer is appealing.

On March 14, she reported him missing and called police for updates but was told there was no new information.

Police, however, did know his whereabouts, according to NBC News.

He died the same day he argued with his mother, struck by an off-duty police officer along an interstate.

The corporal reported the incident to police, who did not suspect the corporal was intoxicated and did not test his sobriety.

Wades death was ruled an accident.

The coroner said he called Bettersten Wade three days later but had to leave a voicemail.

She told NBC News that the number the coroner called was correct but she did not recall receiving the message and couldnt access cell phone records to verify the call.

The coroner said it was the departments jurisdiction to do proper death notification.

Meanwhile, Bettersten Wade turned to social media for help bringing her son home.

The coroner followed up with police two weeks later. After being told there was no progress, asked for approval to bury him in a paupers field at the Hinds County penal farm.

The request was approved on April 3, according to the coroners notes reviewed by NBC News. On July 14, Dexter Wade was buried in the paupers field after no family claimed him.

In August, police told Bettersten Wade in person about the accident.

She wondered whether her brothers death at the hands of a Jackson officer factored into why the information about her son was withheld from her.
New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy is saying boo to a school districts decision to nix in-school Halloween celebrations.

The South Orange-Maplewood district informed parents earlier this month that activities related to the spooky holiday wont be allowed during school hours because of concerns about equity, including families who cant afford to celebrate or dont celebrate because of religious or cultural reasons.

The policy includes barring students from wearing costumes but does not prevent after-school festivities.

While the decision has drawn a mixed reaction among parents, Murphy took to social media to voice his disapproval.

Seriously? We cant let kids celebrate Halloween? Give me a break, New Jerseys governor wrote Monday on X, the site formerly known as Twitter

New Jerseys typically feisty X account amplified Murphys stance Tuesday:

To some, it was a surprise take from Murphy, an openly progressive Democrat who often speaks about the need for equity and inclusion.

Others noted it comes two weeks before a critical election in which all 120 seats in the Democratic-controlled state Legislature are on the ballot and Republicans are seeking to build on gains from a 2021 cycle in which they flipped seven seats.

South Orange-Maplewood lies in a heavily Democratic section of Essex County, but education has been a heated issue during the campaign  especially arguments over the broad topic parental rights in schools.

Ronald Taylor, the districts superintendent, wrote in a letter to parents what the district has been considering:

Is promoting school-sponsored Halloween activities creating indirect and unintentional financial hardships for students and families? Do school-sponsored Halloween activities violate the dignity of some of our students and families, either culturally or religiously?

The district said there can be events outside of school hours and schools can also hold harvest festivals on Oct. 31 during school hours.

Kevin Gilbert, South Orange-Maplewoods assistant superintendent for access and equity, said we are taking a step closer to upholding our communitys access and equity values.

Some schools in the district already had this policy. This move expands it across the entire district.

South Orange-Maplewood isnt alone in reining in the holiday activity. In recent years, schools in and around Boston, Seattle, and Philadelphia have restricted their Halloween celebrations for similar reasons.

Parent Jessica Murphy argued that children in South Orange and Maplewood have plenty of opportunities to celebrate Halloween, with local festivals, parades, house decorations, and trick-or-treating.

But in a district where you have a large population of families who have religious objections to the holiday, I just dont understand why you would sacrifice classroom time for festivities that a significant segment of children cannot participate in, Murphy said.

She added that it hasnt been an issue in schools that already had this policy, so she is not sure why the governor decided to make it one.

Still, parent Maureen LePiane, whose daughter attends South Mountain Elementary School, said her child and others are disappointed.

We believe its important for schools to strike a balance between respecting diverse beliefs and maintaining the joyous spirit of Halloween, which can be a valuable learning experience for children, LePiane said.
Members of the House Ethics and Finance Committee Thursday discussed efforts since 2010 to amend Alabamas ethics law.

The gathering was the third in a series of work meetings providing legislators planning to draft legislation to update the existing law after a report released in August 2019 recommending changes that included tightening language in the states ethics code and offering graduated penalties for specific violations.

We are going to talk about some of the amendments, said James Entrekin Jr., general counsel for the Legislative Services Agency. We are going to walk through those very briefly about what has happened since the major 2010 reforms.

More from Alabama Reflector

The 2010 law imposed strict limits on the relationship of lobbyists, those who hire them (known as principals) and how they work with legislators. Former House Speaker Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, was convicted of violating the law in 2016 and removed from office. An appeals court wrote in a 2018 ruling upholding most of Hubbards convictions that legislators should make some of the language in the ethics statute clearer.

The first half of Thursdays meeting looked at legislation passed by the Legislature going back a decade. The second half discussed two ethics bills proposed in 2019 and 2022 that did not pass.

Entrekin touched on several ethics issues during a presentation to committee members, including disclosure of personal financial information that could influence officials when setting policy.

In 2012, legislators amended the law for the statement of economic interest forms, raising the income threshold from $50,000 to $75,000 for individuals filing forms. It also permitted the Ethics Commission to adjust the threshold based on the consumer price index. The updated law also required public employees who served in a supervisory capacity to also complete the form.

In 2019, the law was modified again, allowing candidates additional time to complete their statement of economic interest form, giving individuals five days to complete the form after filing their papers announcing their candidacy.

Halfway through the meeting, Entrekin pivoted to legislation that lawmakers considered but that ultimately did not become law. Among them was HB 432, sponsored by former Rep. Mike Ball, R-Madison, which would have reduced the severity of the penalties for violating the provision banning gifts for elected officials.

Under current law, intentional violations amounted to a Class B felony. Standard violations are a Class A misdemeanor. Balls proposal would have made the first offense a civil violation with a penalty of up to $3,000. A second offense would be a civil penalty of up to $6,000, followed by a Class A misdemeanor. Intentional violations would remain a Class B felony.

The proceedings were halted more than halfway through the meeting when the chair, Rep. Matt Simpson, R- Daphne stopped Entrekin from continuing with his presentation after a person dressed in a gorilla costume walked into the room and sat in the back.

We have a guest in the chamber, Simpson said. I feel like we are all safe, that there is no threat here. I dont see security looking for us. It is that season everyone.

Just before concluding the proceedings, Simpson said a representative of the American Law Institute will make a presentation to the committee at a November meeting. The committee plans to propose ethics legislation for the that there will be one more meeting in November when the committee will receive information from someone at the American Law Institute.

That will conclude the informational portion of the committee before members will begin working to craft legislation to update the states ethics code just prior to the start of the 2024 legislative session, which begins in February.
Updated at 5:50 p.m.: The jury in the LaJaromeny Brown capital murder trial has retired for the night, briefly deliberating after hearing closing arguments Thursday afternoon.

Brown, who confessed on the witness stand Thursday to shooting and killing Huntsville police officer Billy Clardy III, is facing the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole if convicted. Jurors may also consider the lesser offenses of felony murder or manslaughter, Madison County Circuit Judge Chris Comer said in his instructions to the jury.

Deliberations are expected to resume about 9 a.m. Friday. If Brown is convicted of capital murder, the trial will shift to the penalty phase in which the jury will determine the sentence.

Im not here to ask you to let him walk out of here with you, Browns defense attorney, Bruce Gardner, told the jury in his closing statement. Im asking you to consider under these circumstances that he may not be convicted of capital murder.

Im the first one to say hes guilty of something, Gardner continued. Id be lying to you if I wasnt. He is.

Gardner made the case to the jury that guilt beyond a reasonable doubt is a higher bar to clear. He also stressed that capital murder requires the intent to kill, maintaining his client did not have that intent.

Prosecutors disagreed. Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann described Brown as a top of the food chain predator with criminal connections across the country. Brown testified that he ordered the 100 pounds of marijuana he believed he was selling in the undercover operation where Clardy died from a vendor in Colorado. And DNA on the gun prosecutors said Brown used in the shooting had DNA from Hector Alonzo, a man Brown said he knew and that prosecutors determined was in Texas on the day of the shooting.

I ask you to find him guilty of capital murder, Gann told the jury. Thats what it is and thats clear.

Updated 1:59 p.m.: Closing arguments are expected Thursday afternoon in the capital murder trial of LaJeromeny Brown, the Tennessee man who confessed during trial testimony earlier in the day that he shot and killed Huntsville police officer Billy Clardy III.

Assistant District Attorney Tim Douthit cross examined Brown for about 30 minutes following the courts lunch break, seeking to spell out lies Brown had told beginning with his interview with an investigator about four hours after the shooting on Dec. 6, 2019.

After a series of back-and-forth exchanges the prosecutor and defendant, Douthit asked Brown, How long did it take you to come up with your story?

Defense attorney Bruce Gardner immediately objected, which Circuit Judge Chris Comer sustained. A couple of minutes later, Douthit ended his cross examination.

Earlier, Douthit asked Brown about the legality of carrying a modified handgun, which prosecutors introduced as evidence. And about the legality of providing 100 pounds of marijuana with the intent to sale to customers he did not realize were undercover police officers.

Douthit also asked Brown about the suspects decision-making process in pulling the trigger to kill Clardy. Brown said that if Clardy had announced himself as a police officer, he would have surrendered. Brown said he shot Clardy because he saw a silhouette approaching him from the left with a weapon drawn. Douthit responded that Clardys gun was not drawn and was secured in his holster.

Brown said he entered the abandoned house on Levert Street with a bag and a suitcase carrying part of the marijuana in his left hand. Douthit then displayed a crime scene photo that showed the bag and suitcase sitting on the porch outside the front door, indicating that Brown had left the merchandise outdoors as he entered the house.

Another point Douthit made on cross focused on why Brown dropped his gun in a grassy area as he fled the Levert Street house. Douthit asked him why he dropped it and Brown said he didnt want it anymore. In his closing argument, Gann said Brown dropped the gun because it jammed when firing at Clardy inside the house.

Brown was the only witness defense attorneys called to the stand before resting their case.

Before closing arguments, attorneys met in chambers with Judge Comer to finalize the language in his jury instructions.

Original story: The suspect on trial for shooting and killing a Huntsville police officer in 2019 confessed to the murder during testimony Thursday and apologized to his family from the witness stand.

LaJeromeny Brown, 45, said the shooting of drug task force officer Billy Clardy III occurred at what he expected to be a sale of 100 pounds of marijuana at an abandoned house on Levert Street in north Huntsville.

Brown has been charged with capital murder. If convicted, he faces the death penalty or life in prison without parole. Clardy died in an police undercover drug operation with the intent of arresting Brown.

In his testimony, Brown said he did not realize that he had shot a police officer. Brown said he was startled after seeing a silhouette emerge from a room off the living room where the front door entered the house. Brown said he was afraid he was going to be killed in a robbery for the drugs. He fired his handgun, then ran from the home.

Browns attorney Bruce Gardner asked his client if he had anything he wanted to say to Clardys family.

To the Clardy family, I feel for each one of you, Brown said. Im very apologetic. Im deeply sorry. I cant imagine what you went through.

Several members of the Clardy family have been in the courtroom during the first two days of the trial.

Brown also apologized to his own family, which in the courtroom included his parents and children.

If I could take it back, I would, Brown said.

In concluding his apology, Brown again addressed the Clardy family.

Dont think for one second this has been forgotten (by him) and that Im not remorseful for it, Brown said.

Prosecutors will cross examine Brown Thursday afternoon.

Earlier Thursday, Madison County prosecutors rested their case against Brown.

A medical examiner from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, Dr. Valerie Green, testified that Clardy was shot three times. Only one of the wounds was fatal, she said, with the bullet striking Clardy in the heart.
A Woodlawn High School student was killed just over one year ago, and no one has been brought to justice in his death.

Tynez Durden, 17, was shot shortly after 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 17, 2022.

Birminghams East Precinct officers were dispatched to the 7700 Block of Sunrise Lane on report of a person shot.

When police arrived on the scene, they found Durden lying unresponsive in the parking lot of an apartment complex, said Officer Truman Fitzgerald.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service rushed Durden to Childrens of Alabama. He died at the hospital three days later.

Authorities said Durden was standing outside the complex when a sedan pulled up and fired multiple shots at him.

We are deeply saddened by the death of Tynez Durden, a student at Woodlawn High School, Superintendent Mark Sullivan said following the fatal shooting. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, as well as the entire Woodlawn High School family.

Anyone with information is asked to call homicide investigators at 205-254-1764 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.
A 33-year-old Heflin cold case is warming up with the identification of the victim.

Authorities named Clara Kopp Reynolds, from Georgia, during a Wednesday afternoon press conference in Heflin as the victim of a homicide whose identity has been a mystery until now.

In February 1990, The Anniston Star reported the discovery of a badly decomposed body which had been found by pulpwood workers as they cleared timber off Evans Bridge Road in Heflin. The body was transferred to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences in Birmingham for a forensic report.

Last year the Heflin Police Department reopened the case in hopes of giving Jane Doe a name and attempt to find her family and hopefully bring some justice to her and her family, said Capt. Scott Bonner during the press conference.

Due to it being an open investigation some details cannot be disclosed at this time. DNA from the remains were sent to a private lab. Just days ago I was contacted by Orthram Labs and through DNA and genealogy, a possible relative of Jane Doe was identified, Bonner said.

Bonner said that the daughter of Jane Doe was contacted.

During that conversation it was determined that certain details match for a missing persons case out of Georgia and our unidentified female, Bonner said.

Bonner said that Reynolds was born in 1947 and went missing in the summer of 1989, when she would have been approximately 42.

She was last seen with a male friend and was supposed to be traveling to Florida, he said.

Bonner thanked David Mittelman and his team at Othram Labs for their excellent work and commitment to assisting law enforcement and families of the unidentified.

Bonner said that retired Chief Deputy Tim Gossage contacted him a couple of years ago asking the police department to look into the case.

Tim was involved in this case at the beginning and it never left his mind. He wanted some justice for this family and closure for the family, Bonner said, He wanted the lady that was never identified to have a name and proper burial.

During the press conference Bonner released a photo of Reynolds the summer before she went missing and a facial reconstruction drawing done by LSU based on skeletal remains.

If anybody has any information about this case, the last time she was heard from was the summer of 1989, please contact us, we have an email set up on our Facebook page if you dont want to call in person... if you want to remain anonymous you can, Bonner said.

Unfortunately back then we dont have cell phone records, we dont have phone pings, we dont have video surveillance like we normally have, he said.

Were focusing on anywhere from Birmingham to Atlanta for any kind of information that may come in, he said.

Bonner said the daughter of Reynolds has been very appreciative of the efforts by authorities to bring the cold case to an end and hopes the person responsible is held accountable.

Im sure it was a mixed emotional time for her, she was glad she could know what happened to her mom, she wouldnt have to wonder if her mom abandoned her or if she was alive somewhere, Bonner said.

Staff writer Bill Wilson: 256-235-3562. On Twitter @bwilson_star.

___

(c)2023 The Anniston Star (Anniston, Ala.)

Visit The Anniston Star (Anniston, Ala.) at www.annistonstar.com

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Early in his tenure Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle said the city had a lot of high paying jobs and a lot of low-paying jobs, but not as many in the middle.

He told the Lede the city began to focus on bringing advance manufacturing companies to Huntsville to supply those jobs in the middle. And the city has seen a steady stream of success since with Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, Polaris, Blue Origin and other companies supplying jobs for middle-class workers.

Battle credits that with raising the median household income in the area. According to the Alabama Department of Labor, workers earn more money in Huntsville than in any other metro in the state, earning an average of $70,876 per year.

According to job search sites Indeed and Glassdoor, there are between 12,000 and 15,000 job openings in the area. While many of the highest paying jobs require college degrees., many do not. Some just require a high school diploma and no certification. The Huntsville-Madison County Chamber has a job search on its website: Job Search - ASmartPlace.

Stacker used Bureau of Labor Statistics data to find the highest-paying jobs in Huntsville for those with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Here are the top 10 paying jobs that require only a high school diploma, according to Stacker:
A roundup of conversations we're having daily on the site. Subscribe to the Reckon Daily for stories centering marginalized communities and speaking to the under-covered issues of the moment.

Thirty-three state attorneys general are suing Meta Inc., the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, claiming that its platforms harm the mental and physical wellbeing of minors.

The lawsuit alleges that Meta broke federal and state laws, including violating the Childrens Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by collecting the data of its young users without their parents consent. Under COPPA, Meta has to obtain verifiable parental consent for Instagram and Facebook users under 13.

However, children under 13 arent allowed to be on Facebook or Instagram at all. The suit alleges that Metas practices and policies were insufficient for them to be barred from the apps, which resulted in the collection of their data.

According to the lawsuit, the company was aware of the negative impacts their products have on teenagers through internal studies but has chosen to deny and downplay the effects of the products and declare its platforms safe.

Meta issued a statement to the Associated Press, claiming it had introduced over 30 tools to support teens and their families.

According to Metas website, some of those tools include parents being able to initiate supervision tools through Instagram, limit their teens use of the app during the day or week and see additional information involving their children reporting accounts or posts.

It continued: Were disappointed that instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use, the attorneys general have chosen this path.

The lawsuit details other ways states believe Meta is harming young users by deliberately putting profit above their mental and physical safety through deception, relying on a business model aimed at attracting young audiences through targeted ads and ensuring theyre using both apps as much as possible.

This, the states allege, has resulted in teens showing symptoms of depression, anxiety and insomnia. Furthermore, social media activity has contributed to an interference with education and daily life.

A 2016 study conducted by a researcher at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia found that students who were active on social media scored below average in math, reading and science.

Meta has harnessed powerful and unprecedented technologies to entice, engage and ultimately ensnare youth and teens, the suit states.

Its motive is profit and in seeking to minimize its financial gains, Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its social media platforms.

According to a 2017 study published by researchers at Florida State University and San Diego State University, adolescents who spent more time on social media were more likely to report mental health issues.

However, teens who spent less time looking at screens were not as likely to report mental health problems.

The states that signed onto the lawsuit include Wisconsin, West Virginia, Washington, Virginia, South Dakota, South Carolina, Oregon, Ohio, North Dakota, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Nebraska, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Maryland, Maine, Louisiana and Kentucky.

At least eight other states and D.C. are filing complaints in federal, state or local courts. The joint suit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

The states are asking the court to issue a permanent injunction immediately stopping COPPA data violations they believe are being committed by Meta, award damages and provide any additional relief the court considers to be proper.

Each of the respective states also requested their own type of relief in the suit.
My mother, who passed away last year, was a Holocaust survivor. As is typical with Jewish mothers, she was proud that I went to law school and even more proud when I was admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court. She also detested arrogance, so she frequently responded to my comments and professional achievements with my son, the Chacham. Chacham is a Yiddish word that technically means a learned person, but it is often used also to mock those who think they know it all.

When I co-founded a non-profit legal organization focusing on combating antisemitism, with a particular focus on defending Israel, my mother (and father, who also called me a Chacham) thought it was a bit out of left field. My mother would say that there was no way the Jewish people could experience another Holocaust or other form of mass persecution, in large part because Israel exists and in larger part because the world had learned its lesson about persecuting Jews. My mother honestly believed that there simply are too many who would never allow a slaughter of Jews to happen again.

I told her that it may have been true in the decades after World War II, but I was seeing a dangerous resurrection of Jew-hatred, one that was fueled by the political left and embraced on universities and other institutions that were supposed to be the liberal defenders who would prevent the next Holocaust. I warned her that unless action was taken soon, the world would see another Holocaust.

I wish I had been wrong.

That was the last time my mother told me to stop being such a Chacham. In the years between the time that I became a civil rights attorney defending Israel and my mothers death, the world changed, and even she saw that Jews were in the crosshairs again.

In 2018, I submitted a detailed letter to the United States Department of Justice, asking that they investigate a number of groups operating on U.S. college campuses. This letter, with attached reports, provided the Department of Justice with hundreds of pages of details on how designated foreign terror organizations like Hamas were using university groups like Students for Justice in Palestine to recruit supporters and obtain financial support and recommended that the Department of Justice investigate the groups as a RICO enterprise providing material support for terrorism.

My letter was not an exercise in speculation or wishful thinking; it was based on over a year of rigorous research; contained extensive documentation of how the terror-aligned university groups operate; and detailed the specifics of how these university groups support, and work together with, terror groups, all under the banner of the so-called BDS Movement.

The letter warned that unless the Department of Justice took action to expose and prosecute the alliance between foreign terror organizations and university anti-Israel groups, universities would become the domestic beachhead for terrorism against the United States and Jews around the world.

As far as I know, the Department of Justice chose not to investigate, let alone prosecute.

Several weeks ago, Hamas invaded Israel and slaughtered over 1,400 innocent Jews, many of them women and children, and kidnapped Jewish children to hold as hostages. My mother told us how one day when she was 8 years old, the SS kicked down the door to her familys apartment in Prague, dragged her into the street, executed her neighbors as she was forced to watch, and then dragged her to a death camp. On October 7, 2023, we saw a similar horror at the hands of Hamas.

The very groups that I warned my mother about, including the progressive wing of the Democrat party and university student groups, are now in the streets and even the halls of government celebrating the slaughter of Jews and calling for a new final solution to eradicate the Jewish homeland. They are doing this openly and with great support.

My 2018 letter to the Department of Justice, where I wrote the following, was prescient:

The undersigned respectfully calls for the Department of Justice (the DOJ) to consider an investigation into the domestic criminal activities of affiliates of certain foreign terror organizations (as determined under 8 U.S. Code  1189), including, but not limited to, Hamas, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine and Palestine Islamic Jihad (collectively, the Designated Terror Organizations). The criminal acts occur as part of an organized campaign conducted by parent organizations that include American Muslims for Palestine (and its affiliated entity, Americans for Justice in Palestine Educational Foundation), Dream Defenders, the Muslim Students Association and Students for Justice in Palestine (collectively, the Domestic Terror Affiliates).

Around the world, a new Holocaust is being fomented under the banner of antizionism. Jews are being attacked on campuses, Jewish institutions are being vandalized and targeted, and universities now favor the slaughter of Jews over the right of Jews to self-determination in their historic homeland. As my mother said when I told her that those promoting antisemitism on campuses claimed that they were only acting against Israel and had no issues with Jews, Israel didnt even exist when I was sent to a concentration camp, and if Israel didnt exist today, theyd come up with some other reason to round us up again.

Maybe my mother was the Chacham.

Once again, I call on the Department of Justice to investigate university groups that provide material support to designated foreign terror organizations. Support for Holocaust 2.0 is now in the open on campuses and even in Congress, and time is running out, Attorney General Garland.

Image via Picryl.
What is now occurring in Israel is no act of happenstance or the result of failed policy. It is the execution of a premeditated plan of destruction that Obama began, and Biden is trying to finish. The American left has long desired to eliminate Judeo-Christian followers. Their reasoning is simple: you cannot conquer, subjugate, and enslave a population that refuses to accept the rule of an earthly authority.

With Barack Obama leading the American left and pulling the strings on the Biden marionette, the plan is in motion. They seek to destroy Israel, followed by erasing Christians, whether through genocide (as in parts of Africa) or criminalizing Christianity.

In 2014, Israel initiated Operation Protective Edge to destroy endless miles of terror tunnels Hamas used to gain access into Israel and murder civilians. The Obama Administration assailed the Netanyahu government for using disproportionate force to protect their citizens from death at the hands of terrorists.

That same year, in a Tel Aviv speech, Philip Gordon, special assistant to U.S. President Barack Obama and the White House coordinator for the Middle East, made clear Barack Obamas position. As reported on July 8 in Times of Israel:

Israels ongoing occupation of the West Bank is wrong and leads to regional instability and dehumanization of Palestinians, a top American government official said Tuesday in Tel Aviv, hinting that the current Israeli government is not committed to peace.

Gordon appealed to Israeli and Palestinian leaders to make the needed compromises to reach a permanent peace agreement. Jerusalem should not take for granted the opportunity to negotiate such a treaty with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, who has proven to be a reliable partner, Gordon said. Abbass administration has called for the extermination of all Jews as an Islamic imperative.

Image: Barack Obama. YouTube screen grab.

Whether Gaza or the West Bank, Obama placed greater concern on the quality of life of Palestinians who subscribe to terrorism than industrious Jews working to build a better life for themselves.

In a July 27, 2014, phone conversation with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Obama insisted on a Gaza cease-fire:

An immediate and unconditional ceasefire ending Israels assault on Hamas is a clear strategic imperative to Israel, U.S. President Barack Obama told Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu in a phone call on Sunday. [snip] Obama told Netanyahu he wants a ceasefire that both allows Palestinians in Gaza to lead normal lives and addresses Gazas long-term development and economic needs, while strengthening the Palestinian Authority, the White House said, in a readout of the call to reporters.

In terms of disproportionate force, what gives Barack Obama the right to say what a Jews life is worth? (The Biden administration is repeating the same line.) To those who have followed Middle East events, it is clear that the last thing to concern Obama was a Jews life. His position always focused on protecting the Palestinian right to kill Jews, while minimizing the consequences. Looking at todays horrors in Israel and Obamas lethargic response, how can any reasonable person believe otherwise?

In 2015, Obama promoted and signed the Iranian Nuclear Accord over bipartisan objection from the Senate on both constitutional and principled grounds. Obama ignored that. Obamas agreement was structured to allow Iran to develop nuclear power readily convertible to a nuclear weapon. It also deleted existing sanctions, giving Iran the financial resources to pursue its oft-stated goal using nuclear weapons against the Jewish State. Additionally, the money allowed Iran to sponsor Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Majid Rafizadeh, an economist and business consultant who teaches at Harvard University, offered his analysis of the deal:

The international community would truly do itself a great service to recognize that the nuclear deal was nothing more than a pro-mullah agreement which provided Irans ruling clerics with billions of dollars to pursue their anti-American, anti-Semitic, anti-Iranian people and pro-terror activities, while simultaneously providing cover for Iran to pursue its nuclear ambitions.

When President Trump withdrew from the Iran deal, he reimposed sanctions and essentially cut off funding for terrorism. An important point lost on many today is that when we were mass-producing energy under President Trump, we drove down the price of oil in the marketplace. This further deprived Iran (and Russia) of resources to use against the United States and other Judeo-Christian nations.

As a parting shot at Israel, in 2016, Barack Obama refused to block an anti-Israel resolution at the United Nations condemning settlement construction. Perhaps the strongest evidence of Obamas desire to destroy the Jewish State comes from his allowing the resolution to pass. The proof is simple. The resolution holds that the Temple Mount and Western Wall, Jerusalems holiest sites going back over 2,500 years, are occupied territory. The so-called Palestinian people are a construct fabricated in the 1960s. Only the worst of the Jew-haters could endorse this resolution.

Currently, much is being made of $6 billion that the Biden administration has moved to make available to Iran, but that amount is small compared to what his administration has already done. Writing in August 2023, former White House official Richard Goldberg explained:

At least $16 billion has now been made available to Iran without any congressional input  and more might be on the way. Another $6.7 billion is reportedly moving to Iran via the International Monetary Fund Special Drawing Rights and reportedly another $3 billion of regime assets frozen in Tokyo, India and China

In addition, Biden continues to issue waivers for oil exports without Congressional oversight, resulting in Iran deriving many billions of dollars in revenue.

Under President Trump Iranian oil exports were 10 percent of what they are today, representing reductions of tens of billions of dollars to Iran. It was deterrence without death and destruction.

Today, the Biden Administration has reversed the Trump measures and renewed the flow of money to Iran and Hamas. Without this funding, both Iran and Hamas would be unable to move against Israel. In addition, based on a Wall Street Journal report, aside from funding, Iran provided the organizational structure and guidance for the attack on Israel.

Simply put, without Iranian sponsorship, Israeli babies would not have been beheaded or burned alive. Israels move to exterminate Hamas should have taken place in 2014. It is obvious that Barack Obama blocked this action. So again, what other conclusion can be drawn other than his goal was to destroy Israel, a goal that Biden continues to pursue?

Moreover, both Obama and Biden know that, when the Jews are gone, Christians are next. Hamas has explicitly stated that, after Israel, it will eliminate Christianity (and, presumably, Christians). This will not be confined to Israel. It will happen here. Thousands of Middle Eastern men of military age are coming over our southern border, with numbers of them on the terror watchlist. They are waiting for the Ayatollah to press the button. The American leftist leader Barack Obama is the author of the existing tragedy and what is to come.

What is currently transpiring in the Middle East is not due to some error in judgment. It was planned. The violence, death, and destruction were premeditated. If not headed off now, the American left will empower the Muslim community to accomplish their goal and bring their horror show here.
There are now nine states dotting the country who intend to ban the sale of gasoline and diesel vehicles by 2035, with more expected to join. Banning their use altogether isnt far behind, since vehicles do wear out; most statistics conclude the average life expectancy is 12 years. This means that in less than 24 years, if you live in one of these nine states, you will not have any choice but to buy an E.V. Too bad if you cannot afford one. If you still have a gasoline vehicle, who knows how many gas stations will be left, since these are privately-held franchises that must make a profit or close their doors.

Therefore, the infrastructure to support unlimited E.V. travel for every resident of these nine states (and more) must be in place nationally. Good luck with that. I am sure rural America, currently unaffected by any state law of their own mandating E.V.s will be happy to jump all over it, and spend their tax dollars to ensure the city greenies can find a charging station when they need one.

We also need the power to charge these things, and that will come from an already overly-taxed power grid. E.V.s used during daylight hours are charged overnight, when there is no solar energy, and scant and unpredictable wind; with the continued banning of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas) there is no alternative except to build nuclear to be viable.

The average time to build a nuclear plant is about 8 years. Better get started, right? Heard of any plans? Neither have I.

How much additional electrical energy do we need? I havent done the math myself, but others have and its not unreasonable to believe that The US would need to produce 20-50% more electricity annually if all cars were electric vehicles.

If the left gets their way and coal and natural gas plants are to be phased out at the same time, which currently provides over 50% of our electricity, then we also need to replace these power plants with something else. Since wind and solar will not fill the gaps, it is not hard to see how the math starts spiraling into a deep abyss at this point.

Therefore, I contend the E.V. push is not about some noble goal of saving the planet and humanity. The left has no heart, we know thatsaving humanity is not on their agenda. Further, the left is smart enough in the first place to have come up with the man-made climate change hoax with elaborate scientific justification using innocent CO2 as their scapegoat, which means they are not dumb enough to ignore the facts and data that easily proves their hoax is a lie. But, they persist with the lie and many states, to patronize the irrational leftist agenda, have decided to outlaw the sale of gasoline cars by 2035 with no real good plan to support the movenot to mention, to support cross-country travel, the vast number of charging stations that would be needed at every rest stop since, instead of filling up a tank in 10 minutes and moving along, each vehicle will sit at a charger for several hours, and the facilities that will be needed to occupy your time while your car is plugged in. Nor is anyone terribly concerned how long that trip will take even if there were functioning charging stations on the highways which there will not be. Nobody will want to take long distance trips. I contend this is entirely by design.

Before concluding that it will never happen as I have heard so often from logical, rational conservatives, we cannot underestimate the left. We have done that all too often. I mean, surely the left isnt so sinister it would create a deadly virus in a lab in China and unleash it on the planet? That would be insane! Surely, they wouldnt prosecute innocent people who simply attended a rally where only a few people vandalized some stuff while at the same time worshiping criminals who burn down cities and kill themselves with fentanyl? Surely, they could not pull off election theft on a nationwide scale? All that and more in only four years. We have ten years left until 2035.

The 2035 gasoline vehicle ban deadline is real. It will happen.

One more key element to consider. Have you noticed that these same policies have not applied to petroleum powered air travel? Why? Gas turbine combustion gasses do not go through catalytic converters, and their water vapor and carbon emissions are dispersed much further into the atmosphere than ground vehicles. And, we know that water vapor in the upper atmosphere is a major contributor to temporary warming So shouldn't airplanes be banned first and immediately, long before cars? According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, jet fuel represents about 12% of transportation energy sources and gasoline 52%. By comparison, the use of jet fuel is no small number compared to gasoline, so banning airplanes should be top priority, (A.K.A., low hanging fruit) shouldnt it?

But no, airplanes will not be banned because there is no reasonable alternative to jets and, unlike ground transportation where anyone can travel freely on roads and highways and between all the states of America, air travel is completely under government control through the ever-watchful eyes of the FAA, guided by the FBIs terrorist watchlist. MAGA conservatives are already in the FBI crosshairs as domestic terrorists, so it will not be long before we are all banned from commercial air travel.

Therefore, I believe the ultimate goal is to prohibit our freedom to assemble, otherwise guaranteed by the First Amendment:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Our ability to assemble, to not only air grievances but to petition, protest, and yes, fend off by force, if necessary, a tyrannical government which is not only a right guaranteed by the Second Amendment, but preceded by the American Revolution which made this the greatest country on earth. So yep no laws are actually being made that prohibits freedom of assembly, just your means of doing it in the modem world.

The capturing and illegal detaining of people who attended the January 6th rally at the Capitol building is the first large-scale shot across the bow warning to conservatives about assembling to air grievances. Our right and ability to assemble is being taken away right in front of us.

E.V. mandates must be struck down.

Image: Brent Payne, CC BY 2.0 via Flickr, unaltered.
Yesterday, The Wall Street Journal published a bombshell report, identifying an arms-trafficking scheme in which Iran and its allies have been smuggling heavy weapons and small arms to the jihadi terrorists occupying certain areas of Israel; see the lede below:

Long before Hamas militants burst out of their Gaza stronghold to massacre scores of civilians with handguns and assault rifles, Iran and its allies had accelerated efforts to smuggle weapons into a different part of the Palestinian territories, the West Bank.

What was most explosive though, given current circumstances, is that the arms flowing from the terrorist regimes to the smaller terrorist groups, often comes disguised as aid packages. The authors of the Journal item recount that after the February 2023 earthquake in Turkey and Syria, Iran began hauling large quantities of weapons to Syria in shipments disguised as aid; as we see, a humanitarian crisis or an emergency is a great cover for arming terrorists.

On a separate and totally unrelated note From a Politico report last week:

The U.S. will send $100 million in aid for humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, President Joe Biden said on Wednesday. This money will support more than 1 million displaced in conflict affected Palestinians, including emergency needs in Gaza, Biden said Wednesday during a speech in Tel Aviv.

Now, we dont even need to make speculations and draw logical but unprovable conclusionsBiden actually has a history of being involved in arming terrorist regimes, and most relevantly, Iran itself. Remember those pallets of euros and francs sent by Barack Obama? Who was vice-president? I wonder how much of that money was used to manufacture or procure weapons which somehow found their way to jihadis in Israel?

From another report yesterday, this one from NBC News:

The unemployment rate in Gaza is 47% and more than 80% of its population lives in poverty, according to the United Nations. Hamas, however, has funded an armed force of thousands equipped with rockets and drones and built a vast web of tunnels under Gaza. Estimates of its annual military budget range from $100 million to $350 million, according to Israeli and Palestinian sources. As the U.S. House and Senate will be asking in separate hearings Wednesday and Thursday, where does all that cash come from? Since coming to power in the Gaza Strip 17 years ago, Hamas has filled its coffers with hundreds of millions in international aid, overt and covert injections of cash from Iran and other ideological partners, as well as cryptocurrency, taxes, extortion and smuggling, according to current and former U.S. officials and regional experts.

International aid... Injections of cash from Iran Where does all that cash come from... Gee I wonder.

Do you sport the Gadsden flag, and believe in dangerously patriotic things like unalienable rights from God? Think you have a right to peaceably assemble, to petition your government for a redress of grievances? Youre obviously a terrorist.

A federal government actually supporting legitimate terrorist regimes with astronomical amounts of money (and maybe even arms) that in turn outfits smaller terrorist factions who sadistically slaughter civilians? Democracy and progress, but definitely not terrorism.

Image: Israel Defense Forces from Israel, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons, unaltered.
One of the sins of the antebellum South was that it made it illegal to educate slaves. The idea behind this policy was that educated blacks might rebel against the system that oppressed them. After all, while slavery was normative in Africa, educating them in the Western canon might show them that it didnt have to be this way. I thought of that when Oregons Department of Education announced that it was racist to require minorities to have basic skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic upon graduation. What better way to keep blacks from understanding that there is something better than what leftism offers?

Oregon initially did away with graduation standards because, during COVID, it allowed its entire K-12 education system to collapse. However, its now decided to extend the absence of standards through 2028 because, according to its Department of Education, standards harm minorities:

High schoolers in Oregon wont need to demonstrate basic competency in reading, writing or math in order to graduate for at least five more years because, according to education officials, such requirements are unnecessary and disproportionately harm students of color. [snip] The essential skills requirement has been on pause since the coronavirus pandemic, and last week the Oregon State Board of Education voted unanimously to continue suspending the graduation requirement through the 2027-2028 school year. Under the requirement, 11th graders had to demonstrate competence in essential subjects through a standardized test or work samples. Students who failed to meet expectations were required to take extra math and writing classes in their senior year  thus missing an elective class  in order to graduate. Board members said the standards were unnecessary and harmed marginalized students since higher rates of students of color, students with disabilities and students learning English as a second language ended up having to take the extra step to prove they deserved a diploma, The Oregonian reported.

There are only two ways to interpret this decision (and they are not mutually exclusive), both of which speak to leftist racism and are hugely insulting to Oregons black population. The first interpretation is that Oregons Board of Education has decided that blacks are incapable of being educated.

The underlying thinking is that Oregons black students are just toowhats the word? Ah, yes, stupid. This is exactly the same thinking that allowed post-Enlightenment Southerners to continue slavery, even when they knew that the blacks they enslaved were also children of God. Sure, the racists argued, theyre children of God, but theyre also perpetual children, incapable of development, who are best served by being completely controlledfor their own benefit, of course.

It's a vomitous notion and racist all the way down.

The second way to interpret this is that Democrats are afraid that, if they truly educate blacks so that blacks are capable of going on to educate themselves throughout their lives, that will reveal to them that everything the Democrat party has done has damaged the black community. Slavery, Jim Crow, generational welfare, the breakdown of the family, the attack on faith, the war on police, the war on the value of education Every one of these things has degraded what blacks were able to do in the years following the Civil War despite the unconstitutional, brutal inequities they suffered.

There is no racist like a Democrat. That was true in 1828 when the party was formed, and its true today. The only difference is that todays Democrats have learned to frame their demeaning racism in the language of compassion to mislead the victims of their policies.

Image: Classroom by freepik.
For three weeks, theres been a civil war in America. Not the cold civil war we usually speak about, between leftists and conservatives, but a civil war within the Republican party. Rep. Matt Gaetz worked with Democrats to oust Rep. Kevin McCarthy from the speakership for breaking promises he made to conservatives in order to get elected to that role. However, Gaetz forgot to line up support for a replacement. From that moment, the conservatives and the Vichy Republicans went to war. Now, at last, it looks as if the conservatives won.

The new House Speaker is Rep. Mike Johnson from Louisiana. Its a done deal:

It is the honor of a lifetime to have been elected the 56th Speaker of the House.



Thank you to my colleagues, friends, staff, and family for the unmatched support throughout this process.



It has been an arduous few weeks, and a reminder that the House is as complicated and  Rep. Mike Johnson (@RepMikeJohnson) October 25, 2023

No wonder that a lot of MAGAs and conservatives are happy, starting with Donald Trump, the Ur-MAGA:

BREAKING: Donald Trump congratulates Mike Johnson on becoming Speaker of the House pic.twitter.com/J3ngtaqSly  ALX  (@alx) October 25, 2023

A couple of tweets spell out why Trump is pleased and why all conservatives should be pleased:

 WE HAVE A SPEAKER: Who is Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana?



-Hes America First & MAGA

-Ally of the House Freedom Caucus

-His mentor is Jim Jordan

-He served as legal defense for Trump during both impeachment trials

-Voted against all Ukraine spending after the initial bill pic.twitter.com/mRWUbXMubT  Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) October 25, 2023

HE WON! Congrats Speaker Mike Johnson!



Make no mistake, this is a *HUGE* victory



After Matt Gaetz ousted Kevin McCarthy, the DC Establishment fought back, but America 1st Patriots stood strong & won



For the 1st time in decades, We the People have a true voice in Congress pic.twitter.com/a5sqvd92s5  DC_Draino (@DC_Draino) October 25, 2023

Moreover, Johnson is not shy about his conservativism:

The first thing Speaker Designate Mike Johnson did last night was ask the Republican caucus to pray with him.



This is EXACTLY what we need at this exact moment. pic.twitter.com/5F4RAqyFb4  Monica Crowley (@MonicaCrowley) October 25, 2023

Johnson is willing to take strong stands on issues, including Bidens open border. The interesting thing about the video below is that the Democrats are manifestly hostile to closing the border.

Why is that interesting? Because the Democrats baseand New York City is certainly representative of that baseis getting very hostile to illegal immigration. In other words, the Democrat party has moved to the left of its own base:

Speaker Mike Johnson says that we need to fix the southern border and stop the wave of fentanyl.



Republicans stand up and clap while most of the Democrats stay seated. pic.twitter.com/7XVezrnH28  Greg Price (@greg_price11) October 25, 2023

The usual suspects are deeply unhappy, with the most interesting criticism coming from CNN. There, Gloria Borger frets that Johnson, by being a calm man, is impervious to the attacks leftists level at more flamboyant conservatives, such as Trump:

How generous. CNNs @GloriaBorger frets @RepMikeJohnson is hard to demonize and though hes hugely conservative she concedes hes not the devil incarnate. pic.twitter.com/UG9lkRNBPY  Brent Baker   (@BrentHBaker) October 25, 2023

What just happened is incredibly important in terms of symbolizing a shift in power in the Republican party. As I noted at the top of this post, weve been witnessing the public face of a long-simmering civil war between genuine conservatives and those whom I call Vichy Republicans. The latter may, at the individual level, have a few hot-button conservative issues (i.e.., abortion, guns, taxes,) but they otherwise align with Democrats on huge numbers of issues (i.e., taxes, abortion, open borders, anti-white racism, Ukraine, Trump, January 6, election fraud, etc.).

With Johnson, the conservatives won. That is, the House at the very top aligns with conservatives in America who, for the most part, oppose abortion, support the Second Amendment, want lower taxes, demand a sovereign border, believe in a color-blind society, hate funding Ukraine, support Trump, believe that January 6 was a set-up, and look askance at 2020s election results, etc. This is a step in the right direction.

Matt Gaetz took a dangerous, even careless, gamble and won. Im delighted with the outcome, but I would suggest that, the next time a Republican decides to dethrone the king, he have a plan in place for what comes next.

Image: Mike Johnson, the new Speaker of the House. Public domain.
In the past few months, Joe Biden's 'three stooges' team at the State Department, responsible for handing Venezuela matters, came up with a plan to get Venezuela to pump oil for us, in exchange for the lifting of U.S. sanctions.

The deal? The U.S. would lift sanctions on Venezuelan oil production if Venezuela would hold free and fair elections. It was an odd proposal given that Venezuela's Chavista ruler, Nicolas Maduro, has never held a free or fair election, but Joe, having spent the Strategic Oil Reserve in a previous election cycle and facing another one, and still hellbent on not allowing U.S. producers to produce, needed the Venezuelan oil. Free elections haven't been seen in that country since before the recall referendum on Hugo Chavez of 2004. All the same, everyone was to go along with the claim that Venezuela would hold a free and fair election, and then be free to pump oil without U.S. sanctions.

How'd it go? According to the Associated Press:

Holding Venezuelas first presidential primary since 2012 required the deeply fractured opposition to work together. Venezuelans, in turn, showed up at voting centers in and outside of their homeland to make it count, enthusiastically lining up for hours despite scorching sun and torrential rain. Still, what they saw as a monumental exercise in democracy could still prove futile, if Maduros government wishes. While the administration agreed in principle to let the opposition choose its candidate for the 2024 presidential election, it also has already barred primary frontrunner Maria Corina Machado from running for office. Maduros government has in the past bent the law, retaliated against opponents and breached agreements as it sees fit. Hundreds of people gathered at voting centers in neighborhoods across the capital, Caracas, even before polls were scheduled to open. They stayed in line despite a rainstorm that left them soaking wet. They carried umbrellas, folding stools and coffee to ease the expected waits, and leaned against buildings or stood under marquees to try to avoid the rain.

In the wake of this weekend's little publicized primary (little publicized for a reason) it went about as well as the skeevy deals conducted with Iran's mullahs for the lifting of that country's sanctions. The mullahs -- and now Maduro -- must be laughing up their sleeves at the U.S.

They disqualified the top opposition candidate, and declared that despite the votes she got (92% of the voters), she wouldn't be able to run for election, even in a rigged election, such as they have done for the last two decades.

They messed up the process, forcing voters to wait in long lines, hoping they would go away.

Get a load of these details:
Its official, Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana is the new Speaker, and Democrats immediately launched their first assault: Johnson is an election denier who played a pivotal role in congressional efforts to overturn the 2020 election and should not be allowed to remain in office because these extremists are a threat to democracy.

Most of the media, Hakeem Jeffries, and all the other Democrats who continually seek to destroy all Republicans and conservatives who demanded transparent elections, forgot something thoughtheyre the preeminent election deniers.

When we Republicans point out that Democrats have repeatedly challenged elections (2000, 2004, and 2016), they tell us that those examples are different. They are not election deniers, they simply challenged those elections on principle.

Hakeem Jeffries labeled both Jim Jordan and Speaker Mike Johnson extremists for challenging the 2020 election; but when Republicans point out that Jeffries repeatedly denounced 2016 as illegitimate, and called President Trump a fake president, the media didnt care, and no Democrat declared Jeffries a threat to democracy for voicing his opposition to the results of an election.

Time magazine shows how this works. You see, denying elections before 2020 was okay, because the definition was different. Somehow they also call the unauthorized tour of the Capitol on January 6th a deadly riot even though only one unarmed protester was killed by a government cop. See below, for Times explanation as to why its okay for Democrats to deny elections, but not Republicans:

Top Republicans Are Attacking Hakeem Jeffries as an Election Denier. Heres Why That Label Is Misleading[.]  The term election denier has taken on a particular meaning, however, after Trumps failed re-election campaign. The phrase has come to be associated with Republicans who claim the 2020 election was stolen from Trump, assert without evidence there was fraud in 2020 voting, and cast doubt on secure voting systemsclaims that lead [sic] to the deadly January 6, 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol.

And media operatives not only dont care that Jeffries, Jamie Raskin, and other prominent Democrats have challenged elections in the past, but they are actively cheering these rebels on. Clearly, the media have received the marching orders: they must destroy Mike Johnson in the eyes of the public.

The media pushed the lie about Russian collusion for years to interfere in elections and never had remorse for their malfeasance, so now they must interfere in the 2024 election because Joe Biden and the radical, destructive policies he imposes on the public are extremely unpopularso all theyve got are the ad hominem attacks. They are the destructive ones. They have more trouble labeling Hamas jihadis as terrorists than they do Trump supporters.

The media complained for weeks that the Republicans couldnt get their act together and get a Speaker, but they also basically lobbied against every choice.

It took less than 24 hours for the Associated Press to put out a hit piece on Johnson.

Here, here, and here, the WaPo, which participated in the destruction of Trump every day for the last seven years, targeted Johnson on the news and editorial pages. And here is a piece in the LA Times.

They are essentially campaign workers and lobbyists for the Democrat party. And this is only the first day of Johnsons speakership tenure. We have to put up with this garbage for the next thirteen months as the media seeks to poison the minds of the public, especially the young, to interfere in the 2024 election as they falsely claim that Trump and his supporters are the real danger to America.

The media and other Democrats have been redefining words for a long time. When Bill Clinton was properly impeached for the high crime of perjury and suborning perjury (also a felony), he justified his perjury by saying it depends on what the definition of is is. From Slate:

Years from now, when we look back on Bill Clintons presidency, its defining moment may well be Clintons rationalization to the grand jury about why he wasnt lying when he said to his top aides that with respect to Monica Lewinsky, Theres nothing going on between us. How can this be? Heres what Clinton told the grand jury (according to footnote 1,128 in Starrs report): It depends on what the meaning of the word is is. If theif heif is means is and never has been, that is notthat is one thing. If it means there is none, that was a completely true statement.  Now, if someone had asked me on that day, are you having any kind of sexual relations with Ms. Lewinsky, that is, asked me a question in the present tense, I would have said no. And it would have been completely true.

The media and other Democrats didnt care that a Democrat president committed high crimes, and should have been convicted.

The media and other Democrats havent cared about the truth or the meaning of words for a long time, only power, and infecting the United States with their radical big government policies.

Image: Public domain via Wikimedia Commons.
As you probably know, our Attorney General Ken Paxton is back to work after surviving conviction following impeachment. I said back then that he should focus on the Biden administration rather than getting even with GOP members who voted for his impeachment. I don't know for sure if he took my advice but I like this:

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued the Biden administration on Tuesday, claiming that the Border Patrol illegally destroyed state property when its agents cut through concertina wire on the banks of the Rio Grande to assist migrants to illegally cross the border. Within the past three years, the Texas Military Department has spent $11 million to place 70,000 rolls of concertina wire in different parts of the Texas-Mexico border, most notably in Eagle Pass, where migrants have been seriously injured trying to get through the wire. The concertina wire is part of Gov. Greg Abbotts efforts to stem illegal immigration at the 1,200-mile border. According to the lawsuit, filed in the Western District of Texas, Border Patrol agents not only cut Texas concertina wire, but also attach ropes or cables from the back of pickup trucks to ease migrants ability to get onto the U.S. side of the river.

Good move. The attorney general has a duty to fight a Biden administration that will not protect the U.S. border. It is not Texas' job but someone has to do it if the federal government won't do theirs.

Politically speaking, this is a smart move by AG Paxton. His best work has been fighting the Biden administration over the border and other overreaching executive orders.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts and videos.

Image: Alice Linahan Voices Empower
If Rep. Ilhan Omar ever wanted to disabuse anyone of the idea that she's a dyed-in-the-wool anti-Semite, she could have voted with the vast majority of Congress for the anti-Hamas resolution that just passed 412-10 in the House yesterday.

According to the Minneapolis Star-Tribune:

Rep. Ilhan Omar broke from her Minnesota colleagues and most other members of the U.S. House on Wednesday by voting against a resolution in support of Israel in the wake of attacks by Hamas. Omar, the Democrat who represents Minneapolis and several of its suburbs, was one of just 10 House members to oppose the measure, and the only one from Minnesota. The resolution, which is largely symbolic and garnered 412 votes in favor, reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defense, condemned "Hamas' brutal war against Israel" and proclaimed the U.S. ready to assist Israel in the conflict.

But she didn't.

She was one of ten holdouts, all wokester leftists, who refused to condemn the terrorist outfit for its October 7 attack in Israel that killed 1,400 people, and injured thousands more, not even agreeing with Israel's right to self-defense.

It was a no brainer. Even most Democrats voted for it. But Omar took the Hamas side, claiming it was all about her love for the Palestinian children. For that, she had a problem with Israel defending itself from more attacks from these very guilty dirtbags.

Omar said the resolution "rightly acknowledges and mourns the lives taken by Hamas," but said she voted against it because it "fails to acknowledge and mourn" the Palestinians killed by Israel in retaliation. "Our position should be consistent in defending innocent lives," Omar said in a statement. "We must use diplomacy to secure the release of hostages, end the violence by negotiating a ceasefire, restore water, food and fuel to Gaza, and work toward lasting peace."

She's all in for useless negotiations with these killers, as if diplomacy could be effective in turning these mangy predators dripping with the blood of 1,400 people and obviously loaded with cash and Iran sponsorship into pussycats. And as if Israel has not already tried this -- again and again and again after some violent attack or another.

Which looks pretty skeevy. Anyone decent could sign on to this resolution condemning Hamas and affirming Israel's right to defend itself after that monstrous attack, the worst since the Holocaust.

But she couldn't bring herself to do it. Which is weird stuff, a loud radio signal to the world's terrorist outfits and their enablers that her shingle is still out for them, she's still as anti-Semitic as they are.

After all, she has been caught making anti-Semitic statements ("all about the Benjamins") against Jews, and even got a watered-down resolution against such statements in Congress, triggered by news of her tweets, but loudly denied she had an anti-Semitic bone in her body.

She's such a liar, no different from Hamas. If she's no anti-Semite, well then neither is Hamas, because her argument is the same as that of Hamas.

If she can't draw the line at mass murder of the most heinous sort, maybe the new Speaker of the House can bring up that resolution on anti-Semitism again, and pass a non-watered down version of it this time, explicitly condemning Omar and her anti-Semitic remarks. She hasn't changed any since that resolution. She hasn't mellowed. She hasn't grown cautious and circumspect. She just keeps right on repeating the talking points of her pals in the terrorist world. Congress should sanction her immediately.

Photo illustration by Monica Showalter with use of screen shot from shareable Rep. Ilhan Omar Facebook Live video.
Congratulations to Rep Mike Johnson. He will be a great SPEAKER. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President Donald J. Trump

Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a staunch conservative figure in American politics, was elected as the 56th Speaker of the House on October 25, 2023, following the ouster of Kevin McCarthy from the speakership. He is the first speaker to have been elected from Louisiana, and the shortest-tenured representative to be elected Speaker since John G. Carlisle in 1883. He has demonstrated his conservatism through his voting record, earning a lifetime rating of 92% from the American Conservative Union and 90% from Heritage Action.

Johnson is an ally of the House Freedom Caucus, known for its conservative views. Representative Andy Biggs proposed Johnson as a possible compromise candidate for Speaker of the House after members of the House Freedom Caucus opposed McCarthys bid for the speakership. He is also closely associated with Jim Jordan, a prominent figure in the Freedom Caucus.

Rep. Mike Johnsons support for former President Donald Trump was unwavering, particularly during the impeachment trials. During both impeachment trials, Johnson served on Trumps legal defense team, faithfully defending the actions of the former president. This move demonstrated Johnsons alignment with Trumps policies and America First and Make America Great Again (MAGA) ideologies, further cementing his standing as a Trump ally.

Trump lent support to Johnson in the speakers race, highlighting Johnsons strong ties to the former president.

Regarding funding, Johnsons campaign contributions predominantly come from grassroots supporters in his district. This is markedly different from many other politicians who rely on large donations from K Street, the hub of lobbying in Washington, D.C. Johnsons grassroots funding is a testament to his connection with his constituents and his commitment to representing their interests.

Johnsons election as Speaker of the House has caused quite a stir in Washington D.C., notably among those K Street lobbyists. His solid conservative stance and alignment with Trumps policies have created a sense of unease among those who oppose these ideologies. This reaction clearly indicates the significant impact Johnsons election is expected to have on the political landscape.

Johnson has a notable voting record against all Ukraine spending after the initial bill. He supports ending American military aid to Ukraine in its war with Russia. This stance has earned him an F rating from Republicans for Ukraine.

In terms of the 2020 election, Johnson was among 147 Republicans who voted to overturn the election results, a clear objection to certifying them, and declaring it as an election fraud.

Johnson has also shown his willingness to challenge the political establishment. For instance, he called for the arrest of Nancy Pelosi, the Speaker of the House at the time, after she tore up the State of the Union.

Rep. Mike Johnsons unyielding support for Trump, his grassroots funding, and the ripple effects of his election as Speaker of the House underscores his significant role in current American politics. His actions and policies have shown that he is a staunch conservative, committed to upholding the principles in which he believes.

Indeed, Representative Mike Johnson is a figure who embodies the principles of the America First and MAGA ideologies. His conservative voting record, legal defense of Trump, objection to carte blanche checks for Ukraine, and willingness to challenge the political establishment make him a prominent figure in the push to take back our House.

Image from X.
Physicists and astronomers believe that the universe began with the Big Banga cataclysmic event that occurred roughly 13 billion years ago which gave birth to the universe. The Big Bang theory suggests that the entire universe was concentrated in an incredibly hot and dense state, called the singularity, which began to rapidly expand resulting in the formation of matter, including subatomic particles and atoms. These atoms then clumped together to form galaxies, stars, and other structures in the universe.

For a long time scientists wondered that an event as powerful as the Big Bang ought to leave some evidence, a relic radiation in the form of a cosmic background noise that permeates all of the universe. The cosmic microwave background (CMB) was first predicted in 1948 by American cosmologists Ralph Alpher and Robert Herman. The mainstream astronomical community, however, was not intrigued at the time by cosmology. The Big Bang theory itself was largely debated. The alternative being the Steady State theory which posits that the universe has existed for eternity and is roughly the same at any point in time.



Holmdel Horn Antenna.

The first published recognition of the CMB radiation as a detectable phenomenon appeared in a brief paper by Soviet astrophysicists A. G. Doroshkevich and Igor Novikov, in the spring of 1964. The same year, Robert H. Dicke, and his colleagues at Princeton University, Jim Peebles, and David Wilkinson, astrophysicists began preparing to search for this microwave radiation. Dicke and his colleagues reasoned that the Big Bang must have scattered not only the matter that condensed into galaxies, but also must have released a tremendous blast of radiation. Given the appropriate instruments, they believed this radiation could be detected, albeit in the form of microwaves, owing to significant redshift.

Just 60 km away at Crawford Hill, in Holmdel Township, New Jersey, Arno Penzias and Robert Wilson were experimenting with a supersensitive horn antenna to map radio signals from the Milky Way. The Holmdel Horn Antenna was originally built as part of Project Echo to detect radio waves bounced off large balloon satellites. Project Echo was a NASA initiative, where large inflated mylar spheres up to 100 feet across were orbited some 1,000 miles above Earth passively reflecting radio signal directed towards its large shiny surface. NASA made these simple passive reflectors for intercontinental telephone, radio, and television transmission.

The Horn antenna at Holmdeal was constructed to communicate with these Echo satellites. This antenna is 50 feet long with an opening 20 feet square, that tapers to an 8 inch outlet, through which the radio waves were funneled into a receiver.



Photo credit: Jeff Keyzer/Flickr

Shortly after Project Echo, the Telstar satellite was launched, rendering the Echo system obsolete with its integrated transponders. This advancement freed the antenna from its prior commercial constraints, making it available for research purposes. Seizing the opportunity, Penzias and Wilson decided to utilize it for the analysis of radio signals originating from the interstellar spaces. However, as they began their observations, they encountered a mysterious background noise in the microwave spectrum, seemingly emanating from all directions of the sky. They thoroughly examined their equipment and even cleaned the antenna of pigeon droppings to eliminate potential sources of interference, yet the noise persisted. They both concluded that the noise originated beyond our own galaxy, although they remained unaware of any known radio sources that could explain it.

When a friend and professor of physics at MIT, told Penzias about a paper he had seen by Jim Peebles on the possibility of finding radiation left over from the Big Bang that filled the universe at the beginning of its existence, Penzias and Wilson began to realize the significance of what they had discovered. Penzias got in touch with Dicke, and invited him to Bell Labs to look at the horn antenna and listen to the background noise. Dicke concluded that the characteristics of the radiation detected by Penzias and Wilson fit exactly the radiation predicted by him and his colleagues at Princeton University.



Arno Penzias, right, checking the inside of the horn antenna with Dr. Wilson (on ladder). Photo credit: Nokia Bell Labs

A pair of short papers appeared in Astrophysical Journal Letters in July 1965 announcing the findings, first Dickes theoretical treatment and then Penzias and Wilsons observational findings, each paper acknowledging the other. In 1978, Penzias and Wilson were awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics, and the Holmdel antenna was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

The Holmdel Horn Antenna is now defunct and lies within a 43-acre site formerly owned by Bell Labs, among a few derelict structures built for communications research. In 2021, the site was sold to a local builder, who expressed desire to build high-end residences in the property. Its believed that the antenna might get relocated to another place. In response, the town has agreed to buy part of the property where the antenna stands, leaving the rest for the owners to develop. The town wants to make this 35-acre chunk of the hill into a park, with the historic antenna and a visitor center.



Dr. Wilson and Dr. Penzias in 1978



Photo credit: Erik Dunham/Flickr
More users in the US might be getting access to the Apple Pay Later service. This service found its way to the public about a year and five months ago, but now more users can get to experience it. Apple is giving more users access to this shopping service from the Apple Wallet, and some users can even access it directly from the companys website homepage.

If you havent heard anything about this service, and you live in the US, you might be wondering what its all about. Well, it does exactly what its name states, letting users purchase Apple products now and pay later. The catchy thing about this impressive shopping service Apple is now expanding access to is that there is no interest in products purchased.

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Over the past few months, Apple has been treating this service as a pre-release, hence limiting access to most users. Only a few users in the US could access it, and also it didnt affect all iPhones or iPads that the brand had to offer. But now this shopping service is rolling out to more US users, but there are a few things that you need to take into mind.

The wide rollout of the Apple Pay Later service sparks concerns over consumer safety

Sometimes getting a new phone might be a bit of a hassle, especially when the need is sudden. At times like these, users might not be able to purchase a new device at the time they require one because they lack access to cash. For this reason, the Apple Pay Later service was born to make purchasing a new device in tight financial situations easier for users.

Users who intend to use this feature to make a purchase are to take a few things in mind. The service is only available for purchases between $75 to $1000, which gives users a wide range of choices. Additionally, this service only covers iPhones and iPads (and possibly some accessories) at this time, as Apple might expand the product list in the future.

To benefit from this service, users need to purchase at Apple-authorized retailers. These include the official Apple website and physical stores around various locations in the US. The service is also very accessible by using Apple Wallet as a payment option.

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Payment will run over six months, during this timeframe the user will make a total of four instalments. There are no interest or late fees, as Apple says that the purpose of this feature is for users. Despite how good this shopping service sounds, there are concerns over consumer safety.

The major concern here is users carrying debts from using the Apple Pay Later service. There is also the concern of Goldman Sachs, a partner with Apple, on instalments payment pulling out from the partnership. These are some valid concerns that need proper clarification as this shopping service rolls out to more users in the US.
Samsung is reportedly gearing up to launch its first 3nm Exynos chip next year, but it isnt what everyone expected. According to the Korean media, the company will release a 3nm wearable chipset in mid-2024. It will power the Galaxy Watch 7 series. The firm may follow up with a 3nm smartphone processor later in the year or in early 2025.

Samsung is working on a 3nm chip for the Galaxy Watch 7

The 3nm semiconductor era began in mid-2022, with Samsung Foundry leading the charge. The Korean behemoth first started manufacturing chips using the next-gen process node. TSMC followed the suit a few months later. However, while Samsung has yet to make a 3nm smartphone chip, its Taiwanese rival has already ticked that box. It made Apples A17 Pro chip for the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

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Rumors are that both foundries are struggling to improve their 3nm yields, slowing down the progress. Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Samsung are all sticking to the 4nm tech for their next-gen flagship smartphone processors, namely the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Dimensity 9300, and Exynos 2400. That said, Samsung Foundry is expected to produce 3nm chips for mobile devices next year, with TSMC increasing its capacity too.

However, no one expected Samsung to make a 3nm wearable processor before a smartphone chip. The said wearable chip will debut with the Galaxy Watch 7 series, the Korean media reports. The new watches should arrive in July or August next year. We dont yet have a name for the SoC. The previous two Exynos processors for Samsung watches were called Exynos W920 and Exynos W930, so we might get an Exynos W940 next year.

The new chip should bring substantial power and performance gains

Samsung may have a reason to not call it Exynos W940, though. The Exynos W930, which powered this years Galaxy Watch 6 series, is a minor upgrade over the previous chip. It only brings a faster CPU and some power optimizations over the Exynos W920, which was introduced with the Galaxy Watch 4 in 2021 and also powered the Galaxy Watch 5 last year. Both of those chips are 5nm solutions.

The jump to the 3nm tech, on the other hand, should mean massive power and performance gains. It should be a generational leap in the true sense. Samsung might feel that the Exynos W940 branding wont do justice to that upgrade. We will have to wait for more details to emerge before we can paint a clearer picture. Rumors about the Galaxy Watch 7 should start becoming more frequent once Samsung is done and dusted with the Galaxy S24 series.
Google Wallet has been getting a lot of love from the company lately. Weve been seeing new features hit the platform over the past few weeks, and were still waiting for the announced revamp to finally land. Google just announced a new update for Google Wallet that will bring features like ride history and more.

Right now, Google is looking to make Google Wallet a replacement for your actual wallet. This involves letting you add a myriad of digital cards. While the list of supported cards is already vast, consisting of thousands of cards, it doesnt have everything. This is why the company now lets you scan the barcodes of different cards to add to your wallet. Its a way of adding cards that arent on the pre-populated list.

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Google Wallet is getting ride history and more

Sometimes, we just need to see some insights to get a picture of our habits. This is one reason why Google Wallet is bringing a ride history feature. As you can imagine, youll be able to get insight into the trips youve taken to get a snapshot of where youve been.

Thats not the only insight that the company is bringing. Google Wallet will also show you insights into your savings. The app will keep track of how much money youve saved from time-based fare caps.

Both sets of data will be on one page. When you access the page, youll see what transit authority you used, what cards you used to pay for fairs, and the insights below. First, youll see how much money youve saved. Right under that, youll see the ride history.

Next, youll receive real-time ride updates. The app will receive updates on your ride as the trip goes on. This is a great way to keep in the loop about whats going on with your ride.

These features are going to be rolling out later this year with Brighton and Hove support in The UK. It will expand to other cities early next year.

Theres a new card

If you use ORCA transportation, then youre in luck, Soon, people in the Seattle and Puget Sound area will be able to add this card to their wallet.
The OnePlus 12 design has just been shown by the companys CEO himself, Pete Lau. Just to be clear, he does not show us the phones entire design, but only the device from the front. We did notice some additional details by looking at the picture, though.

The OnePlus 12 design gets shown by the companys CEO well, partially

You can check out the original image below this paragraph, along with a cropped one, that zooms in on the phone. That being said, youll notice that OnePlus will once again utilize a curved display on the device.

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Google gave up on curved displays, as both of its Pixel 8 devices have a flat display. The Galaxy S24 Ultra is also said to include a flat display, so the entire Galaxy S24 series will feature such panels.

OnePlus is sticking to it, it seems. On top of that, there is a display camera hole on the phone, and its centered. Thats one change compared to the OnePlus 11. Up until now, the companys flagship had a display camera hole in the top-left corner.

The bezels on the phone are very thin, but they dont seem to be uniform. We could be wrong, though, as the side bezels can seem thinner than they are on curved panels. In any case, the bezels are quite thin.

OnePlus will change the position of the alert slider & volume control buttons

Another change youll notice compared to the OnePlus 11 is the position of the volume up and down buttons, and the alert slider They basically switched places. The volume up and down buttons are now on the right side, above the power/lock key. The alert slider is on the left. That will make the volume buttons easier to reach, for right-handed people, unlike the alert slider.

That is basically all the info that we could gather from this image. The phone will be large, as expected. That much is noticeable when you see it in hand. OnePlus will launch this phone either towards the end of the year, or in January next year.
Pixel phones will now reportedly ask whoevers calling if the call is urgent. Giving Android users another way to ensure they arent interrupted during whatever it is theyre doing. This neat new trick is part of the Call Screen feature on Googles Pixel phones including its most recently released devices with the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

There are a lot of reasons to want a Pixel phone. But Call Screen is certainly one of the more useful reasons. Everyone hates spam calls and thanks to the generative AI on a Pixel device, Call Screen can take care of these by simply making it so you never even have to notice theyre there. Google is even set to improve the feature by adding more contextual responses for certain types of calls.

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The Pixel Call Screen feature will now ask your contacts if calls are urgent

Call Screen would already make it possible to screen and filter out calls from both spam and unknown numbers. But sometimes you get calls from friends or family and you just dont want to be bothered. Or youre currently busy and youd rather take the call later. With the new Call Screen trick the phone can ask your contacts if a call is urgent so you know if its a call that you really should pick up right away.

The feature was spotted by Mishaal Rahman over on X (via Android Police) where he notes that a new ask if urgent chip from Google Assistant pops up on the screen when a contact calls in. The ask if urgent chip may only show up for contacts. Although it hasnt been confirmed if this is the case. Its also unclear if all Pixel phone users will be able to see this new chip. But it does appear that it has been rolling out prior to the last few days. So if you dont notice it yet, it could pop up between now and the coming weeks.
(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 26 - The draft 2024 budget bill worth a total of just under 24 billion euro presented by the government of Premier Giorgia Meloni is "reasonable" in so far as it confirms the requested cut in the labour-tax wedge for low income earners but it lacks a stimulus for investment, Confindustria President Carlo Bonomi said Wednesday evening.

The leader of the Italian industrial employers' association told Tg2 Post that the budget is "reasonable because it concentrates available resources on the tax wedge cut that we had asked for".

"What is missing, however, is the part on stimulating investment, a part that would have been important at a time when the economy is slowing down," he added.

"We need to be obsessed with growth," he added.

"If we do not grow we do not have the resources to repay our huge public debt," said Bonomi.

Under the budget bill approved by cabinet on October 16 but only made available this week the six-percentage-point reduction in labour tax for those earning up to 35,000 euro and the seven-percentage-point reduction for those earning up to 25,000 euro will continue to apply, allegedly amounting to an average increase of around 100 euros a month in the pay packets of 14 million workers. (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 26 - A Lazio regional court on Thursday confirmed the suspension of a ministerial decree ordering the inclusion of cannabinoid-based products for oral use in the table of medicines, meaning that oral products containing light cannabis can now be sold again.

The hearing on the merits of the case has been scheduled for January 16, 2024.

Earlier this month the same court upheld an appeal against the decree by association Imprenditori Canapa Italia (Italy Cannabis Businesses, ICI). (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 26 - The first committee of the judiciary's self-governing body, the Supreme Council of Magistrates (CSM), on Thursday opened a dossier aimed at protecting Iolanda Apostolico, a Catania judge who has been accused of bias after striking down a government migrant decree and freeing a number of migrants in Sicily.

The bias claims weer made after Apostolico attended a demonstration calling for migrants held at sea by then interior minister Matteo Salvini to be released amid his controversial closed ports policy.

Salvini, who is now deputy premier and transport minister, posted a still of a video catching Apstolico at the protest, a still whose provenance has yet to be established.

Magistrates union ANM has called the attacks on Apostolico an unacceptable invasion of the judiciary's Constitutional independence.

In its statement Thursday the CSM said "The first Commission of the CSM in today's session has decided by a majority (with only the abstention of President Enrico Aimi) the opening of the file to protect the autonomy and independence of the judiciary determined by the Apostolico case.

"The verification of...numerous requests to open a case for protection arising from expressions considered by the proponents detrimental to the autonomy and independence of the judiciary has led the commission to deliberate preliminarily (unanimously) the urgent analysis of the same to assess its consistency, believing it absolutely necessary to address the issue with the completeness it deserves". (ANSA).


(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 26 - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Pope Francis in a phone call that "Israeli attacks against Gaza have reached the level of a massacre", the Turkish presidential office in Ankara said on Thursday.

During the conversation, the office added that Erdogan also criticised the lack of indignation on the part of the international community regarding the attacks against the Gaza Strip in retaliation for the October 7 surprise Hamas terrorist attack against Israel.

Erdogan also reportedly appealed for support for Turkey's efforts to send humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza and said that "lasting peace in the region, which is home to the holy sites of the three monotheistic religions, will only be possible with the creation of an independent, sovereign and geographically integrated State of Palestine within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital".

On Wednesday Erdogan accused Israel of committing "premeditated act of crime against humanity" by allegedly attacking civilians in Gaza and said Hamas is not a terror organization but "an organization of liberation, of mujahedeen, who fight to protect their land and citizens".

In Italy, Deputy Premier and Transport Matteo Salvini described his comments as disgusting" and said he would ask Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani to summon the Turkish ambassador and lodge a formal protest. (ANSA).


The estate of late Fleetwood Mac star Christine McVie has sold the rights to her music to an acquisition firm.

The sale, to assessment management company HarbourView Equity Partners, includes shares in Fleetwood Mac hits, which include Go Your Own Way, Landslide, The Chain and Dreams.

McVie died of an ischemic stroke in November 2022 at the age of 79.

The rights to her music were sold by her estate for an undisclosed sum in the latest in a string of high-profile sales, as musicians cash in on the lucrative rights to their back catalogues.

Christine McVie in 2013 (Ian West/PA)

Bruce Springsteen sold the rights to his extensive back catalogue to Sony Music Group in December last year in a deal reportedly worth 500 million dollars (435 million), making it one of the biggest single-artist catalogue deals to date.

McVies bandmate Mick Fleetwood sold his interests in his bands recordings in 2021 to Germany-based BMG, one of the largest global music publishers.

The deal included royalty interests in more than 300 songs including Fleetwood Macs biggest hits, and covered his interests in all of the bands recorded work apart from their first two albums.

British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac were founded in London in 1967 and went on to become one of the most successful groups ever.

McVie was a later addition to the line-up and performed alongside Fleetwood, Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, and her husband John McVie.

Harbourview chief executive Sherrese Clarke Soares said: Christines remarkable talents played an integral role in shaping Fleetwood Macs sound.

The bands timeless music and worldwide influence continues to captivate all generations of listeners today.

We are honoured to uphold that legacy as we welcome Christines lifetime of work with the band into HarbourView.

Christine is a decorated and iconic legend in the history of rock n roll. She is a global treasure. We hold her works with pride.

In 1970, McVie released her first solo album, Christine Perfect, after her maiden name, following it up 14 years later with the self-titled Christine McVie, and In The Meantime in 2004.

In June last year she released another album titled Songbird, a collection of songs drawn from two of her previous solo albums.

McVie left Fleetwood Mac in 1998 after almost three decades but rejoined in 2014 when a one-off appearance at the O2 reignited her love of performing.

She was among the eight members of the band who were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998.
Coffee shop staff, theme park attendants and entertainment presenters are among the occupations in England and Wales with the highest proportion of employees identifying as LGB+, new analysis suggests.

At least one in 10 people aged 16 and over working in these professions told the 2021 census they were lesbian, gay, bisexual or another minority sexual orientation.

Other jobs near the top of the list included bar staff, public relations professionals and library assistants, with at least one in 13 identifying as LGB+, while bricklayers, farmers and window cleaners were among those towards the bottom, with representation below one in 100.

(PA Graphics)

The occupation with the highest proportion of all was air travel assistants, where LGB+ levels stood at nearly one in seven people: evidence that the airline industry is somewhere people can live and work as their authentic selves, according to the flight attendants union.

The latest census took place in England and Wales on March 21 2021 and was the first of its kind to ask about sexual orientation, though the question was voluntary for people aged 16 and over.

Four occupations had at least one in 10 people identifying as LGB+, according to analysis of census data by the PA news agency.

These were air travel assistants (13.7%), actors, entertainers and presenters (12.3%), leisure and theme park attendants (11.0%) and coffee shop workers (10.8%).

Others in the top 10 include artists (9.8%), bar staff (9.4%) and authors and writers (8.9%).

A total of 321 specific occupations are covered by the analysis, which excludes the very smallest groups where the total workforce in the census was under 10,000 people.

On this measure, the group with the lowest proportion of people identifying as LGB+ was roofers, roof tilers and slaters at 0.5%, or just 250 of the 45,735-strong workforce.

Bricklayers, farmers and scaffolders each recorded 0.6%, while plumbers and window cleaners both recorded 0.7%.

Responding to the figures, Minette Batters, president of the National Farmers Union, described the British farming community as an incredibly vibrant sector, with people from different backgrounds and experiences, adding that it is important for us to celebrate the strength in diversity.

She said: We want everybody to feel welcomed and valued, which is why weve partnered with Agrespect and pledged to stand against prejudice and support rural LGBTQ+ diversity, inclusion and enablement.

The international Association of Flight Attendants, which has a branch in the UK, said its work over the years to have the broadest employment of our members regardless of factors like age, colour or sexual orientation, has led to it being somewhere everyone feels comfortable.

A spokesperson for the union said: Many people who identify as LGBTQ+ today work as flight attendants to be surrounded and supported by peers.

Decades before the law caught up, we worked together to negotiate job protections for LGBTQ+ workers and secured domestic partner benefits in contracts. Our solidarity has allowed thousands of flight attendants to live and work as their authentic selves.

Census data for England and Wales, including figures on the diversity of the workforce, is published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

The data shows that across every occupation there was a small proportion who chose not to answer the question on sexual orientation  for example, 6.4% of air travel assistants and 7.8% of theme park attendants  meaning levels of diversity in the workforce could be even higher.

The occupation with the highest proportion of people who did not answer the question was packers, bottlers and canners, at 10.2%, with 3.4% identifying as LGB+ and 86.3% as heterosexual.

Differences in LGB+ representation across professions can be down to various factors including barriers to entry and progression, a lack of inclusive organisational cultures and experiencing discrimination, according to the professional body for human resources and people development.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) said employers should act now to improve equality, diversity and inclusion at work.

(PA Graphics)

Jill Miller, who is senior diversity and inclusion policy adviser at the CIPD, told the PA news agency its own research had previously shown that a significant number of LGB+ employees experience harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

She said: Attracting a more diverse workforce through reaching out to a diverse talent pool is important, but organisations must go further. Employers need to focus on creating an inclusive organisation culture where there is equality of opportunity and outcomes for all.

CIPD research in 2022 found that organisations in the public and voluntary sectors are significantly more likely than those in the private sector to say they had focused on diversity and inclusion with respect to sexuality during the past five years.

The PA analysis also found that sales and retail assistants was the most common occupation across the entire workforce in England and Wales, accounting for 1.1 million people aged 16 and over, 4.5% of whom identified as LGB+.

The next largest groups were care workers and home carers, then cleaners and domestics, where LGB+ identification stood at 4.6% and 2.6% respectively.

Among the top 10 most common occupations represented in the census, secondary school teachers and kitchen/catering assistants both had the highest LGB+ figures, at 5.0%.

Around one in 14 (6.9%) 20-24 year-olds in the labour market at the time of the census identified as LGB+, the highest proportion in any age group, with 25-29 year-olds (6.2%) having the second highest proportion.

Some 5.2% of 16-19 year-olds identified as LGB+, though the overall number of people in this age group was relatively small, at 653,280.

The largest age group in the workforce was 30-34 year-olds, accounting for 3.3 million people, of which 4.9% identified as LGB+.

The percentage then falls steadily as age groups get older, dropping to 1.2% of 60-64 year-olds.

Levels were even lower among the oldest age groups, though here the overall size of the workforce is very small, with 1.0% of 728,235 65-69 year-olds identifying as LGB+, 0.6% of 281,380 70-74 year-olds, and 0.4% of 169,135 over-75s.

Among 30-34 year-olds  the largest age group in the workforce  people working as elected officers and representatives had the highest proportion identifying as LGB+ (18.3%), though the numbers in this category were tiny, at 55 out of 300.

For the most common occupation in this age group, sales and retail assistants, 5.2% identified as LGB+, or 5,340 out of 102,630 people.
The parents of a critically ill baby have asked European judges to consider their case after losing life-support treatment fights in London.

A High Court judge recently ruled that doctors could lawfully limit the treatment they provide to eight-month-old Indi Gregory, and her parents, Dean Gregory and Claire Staniforth, have failed to persuade appeal judges to overturn that decision.

Two Court of Appeal judges on Monday concluded that Indis parents, who are both in their 30s and from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, did not have an arguable case and no real prospect of winning an appeal.

A spokesman for Indis parents said lawyers had made an application to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) in Strasbourg, France.

Dean Gregory, the father of Indi Gregory, at the Royal Courts of Justice in central London (Victoria Jones/PA)

Indis parents are being supported by campaign group the Christian Legal Centre.

A spokesman for the centre said lawyers had filed an application to the ECHR early on Thursday.

He said Indis parents initially wanted a European judge to prohibit the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment until the EHCR had considered the case

Mr Justice Peel had heard evidence about Indis condition at a private trial in the Family Division of the High Court.

He heard that Indi, who was born on February 24 2023, had mitochondrial disease, a genetic condition that saps energy, and is being treated at the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham.

Specialists say she is dying and bosses at the hospitals governing trust asked Mr Justice Peel to rule that doctors could lawfully limit treatment provided to her.

The youngster is being treated at Queens Medical Centre, Nottingham (Family handout/GoFundMe/PA)

Barrister Emma Sutton KC, who led Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trusts legal team, told Mr Justice Peel that Indi was critically ill and had an exceptionally rare and devastating neurometabolic disorder.

She said the treatment Indi received caused pain and was futile.

Mr Justice Peel had considered evidence behind closed doors, but he allowed journalists to attend the hearing and ruled that Indi, her parents and the hospital could be named in reports.

He ruled that medics treating Indi and a guardian appointed to represent her interests could not be named.

The Christian Legal Centre spokesman said in a statement: After exhausting domestic remedies, the family of Indi Gregory has this morning filed an application with the European Court of Human Rights asking for interim measures before 4pm today to prohibit withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment until the ECHR has considered the case.

Mr Gregory said in a statement: The whole experience of the court system is completely one-sided.

From day one all we ever wanted was for Indi to have a fair trial and to be allowed to have an independent specialist, not affiliated with the NHS, to provide expert evidence.

What you would think is a fair and basic wish and right, however, has been denied to us and we have not been given that opportunity.

He added: To us, Indi is everything, and is worth the cost and fighting for to give her a chance to live.

As parents we believe it is our duty to do everything we can to protect our child.

Claire and I are both heartbroken that the courts and NHS are not doing more to help us.

It shouldnt be anybodys right to end somebodys life.

We now hope and pray that the ECHR takes forward the case.
Senior officials to those at the top of Government during the coronavirus pandemic will appear before the UK Covid-19 Inquiry next week.

Boris Johnsons then-chief adviser Dominic Cummings, former principal private secretary Martin Reynolds and ex-Number 10 director of communications Lee Cain are all among witnesses scheduled to give evidence.

Mr Cummings confirmed last week that he had been going through his statement with inquiry lawyers, describing the process as painful.

The Government was forced to defend Mr Cummings after he drove to County Durham beauty spot Barnard Castle during the first lockdown (Jonathan Brady/PA)

Mr Johnsons closest aide when the pandemic emerged, he became well-known by the public when the Government was forced to defend him after he drove to County Durham beauty spot Barnard Castle during the first lockdown.

Mr Cummings is set to give evidence on Tuesday morning.

Next weeks hearings will begin with Mr Reynolds on Monday morning, followed by Imran Shafi, who was former private secretary to the PM for public services, and Mr Cain who is scheduled for that afternoon.

Former head of the NHS, Sir Simon Stevens and Professor Yvonne Doyle, former medical director of Public Health England, are due to give evidence next Thursday.

The inquirys module two hearings are considering core UK decision-making and political governance.
Ireland must appreciate the differing perspectives of EU members on the Israel-Hamas conflict as the bloc strives to agree a united call for a humanitarian ceasefire, the Taoiseach has said.

Leo Varadkar expressed hope that a common declaration would emerge from talks at the European Council summit across Thursday and Friday.

He said the precise language of the statement did not matter as much as ending the violence.

Mr Varadkar arrived at the summit a day after Ireland advised all its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country amid fears the conflict in Gaza could escalate.

Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin said on Thursday that the precautionary step was taken due to the possibility of a sudden escalation.

In Brussels, Mr Varadkar warned that escalation would be playing into the hands of Hamas.

On the EU negotiations over a joint position, the Taoiseach added: We mightnt use the exact same language as the United Nations uses, but I hope we will, as the European Union, call for a humanitarian ceasefire, a humanitarian pause. Im not obsessed about what language we use.

What we want is the killing and the violence to stop, so that humanitarian aid can get into Gaza where Palestinian people, innocent Palestinian people, are suffering, and also to allow us to get EU citizens out and we have about 30 Irish-Palestinian citizens in Gaza. Were keen for them to be able to leave Gaza if they want to leave and thats currently not possible.

He said it was important that EU discussions on the conflict took cognisance of the differing perspectives of member states.

Im hopeful that we can agree a statement to call for a pause, a cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire. I think the vast majority of countries want that, he said.

Micheal Martin urged Irish citizens in Lebanon to leave the country (Brian Lawless/PA)

When it comes to matters of foreign policy in the European Union, theyre done by consensus, not by majority vote, and thats something we have to bear in mind.

We also need to bear in mind and respect where other countries are coming from, you know, particularly countries that were involved in the terrible events and the terrible things that happened to Jewish people in the 30s and 40s. We need to understand where theyre coming from, and why so many Jewish people had to return to Israel, their ancestral homeland, because of the events of the Holocaust.

Secondly, we need to bear in mind that a lot of countries in the European Union have been subjected to terrorism by extremist Islamic groups, the Bataclan (theatre) in Paris, the attacks on the metro in Spain, we need to be wise to that  that countries are coming at this from a very different perspective.

In Ireland, we have a lot of sympathy for the Palestinian people, often driven by our own historical experience. But to get a consensus among 27 people, were going to have to compromise, were going to have to understand each other.

I believe itll be possible for us to come out of here tomorrow with a unified stance as a European Union. Even if we dont all agree on emphasis and detail, I think it is possible to have a common position and that will then guide everything else everyone else says from there on.

Mr Varadkar said any ceasefire would be meaningless unless all sides observed it.

Lebanon Travel Advice Update We have reviewed and revised our Travel Advice for Lebanon  Irish citizens are strongly advised to leave now while commercial options remain available.https://t.co/Zr2Ma2YF0X@dfatravelwise @IRLEmbCairo  Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) October 25, 2023

It is one thing for the United Nations and the European Union to call for a ceasefire or humanitarian pause, would the Israeli Defence Forces, Hamas, Islamic Jihad abide by it? We dont know, he said.

And, of course, a ceasefire, a pause, is worth nothing unless everyone abides by it.

Lets not forget where this started, or at least this phase of the conflict started, by a very brutal attack by Hamas, the Islamic resistance movement, on civilian targets in Israel with a view to causing a provocation, with a view to making Israel invade Gaza, in the hope that they would escalate tensions in the region and cause the Saudi/Israeli peace talks to come to an end.

Thats actually one of the points Ill be making, is its really important that we dont play into the hands of Hamas here, what Hamas wants is an escalation, they want to see this conflict spread to the wider region.

There are other people, quite frankly, in other parts of the world who would like to see that too, because it would take focus off Ukraine, so its very important that we dont fall into that trap.

Mr Varadkar also criticised Irans influence on events in the region.

(PA Graphics)

There is clear evidence that the Iranian government is supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon, is supporting Hamas in Palestine, is supporting the Houthis in Yemen, and is a destabilising actor in world affairs, he said.

Back in Dublin, Mr Martin explained the decision to change the guidance to Irish citizens in Lebanon.

Irelands Department of Foreign Affairs has also advised against travel to Lebanon, citing a highly volatile situation.

Our basic advice is that we do believe it would be wise to consider leaving Lebanon, we say that with great regret, the Tanaiste told reporters.

But there is potential for regional escalation and we can see an increase in activity in the northern border. And while there are commercial options available, it is our considered advice that people should really think about taking those commercial routes and options that are currently available, that may not be available if anything sudden happens.

We have no sort of metric, obviously, in terms of the timing of this, and things can happen pretty quickly. And weve seen that, and its a very volatile situation in the Middle East right now.

So the precautionary principle applies, and thats essentially what we are saying.
News On Japan - Oct 31

For everyone using the free messaging app "LINE", have you neglected an important notification? If you haven't yet given consent to their new privacy policy, there's a risk you won't be able to use LINE from November 1st.
The future of Heathrow Airports expansion is in the hands of the private sector, a minister has suggested.

Transport minister Jesse Norman told the Commons the third runway at the west London airport, which has been delayed by legal challenges and the Covid pandemic, still had the in principle support of Parliament.

But he added it now required Heathrow to come forward with its plans and funding.

Asked for an update on the airports third runway, Mr Norman told the Commons: As the House will know, Parliament has voted in principle to support a third runway at London Heathrow, but the Government has always been clear that this Heathrow expansion remains a private sector project.

To go ahead it would be required to meet strict criteria on air quality, noise and climate change, as well as being privately financed.

It is for any scheme promoter to decide when it submits a development consent order application as part of the statutory planning process.

A plane at sunset over Heathrow Airport in London (Steve Parsons/PA)

Sir Robert Goodwill, the Conservative MP for Scarborough and Whitby, insisted there was an important role for regional airports in the Governments levelling up agenda, but added that Heathrows expansion was needed to unlock this.

He asked: Would the minister agree with me to deliver true global connectivity we need more slots for regional airports into our national hub, and ultimately that will mean more tarmac on the ground at Heathrow?

Mr Norman agreed regional airports were vital to the UK, adding: It nevertheless is the case that as Heathrow considers its expansion plans it will need to decide when to take those forward, and when it does so I hope it will bear the very important issue of regional connectivity in mind.

The Heathrow expansion has garnered cross-party support from Parliament in the past, though MPs with constituencies neighbouring the airport have expressed concerns about the plans.

Former Tory prime minister Boris Johnson voiced strong opposition to the third runway when he was the MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, pledging in 2015 that he would lie in front of the bulldozers if expansion went ahead.

Outgoing Heathrow airport boss John Holland-Kaye recently insisted a third runway at the major air hub is vital for the UK to have a thriving, healthy economy.

The airports new chief executive Thomas Woldbye is expected to consider the project in consultation with others before providing an update.
The King has been briefed at Buckingham Palace by aid agencies on the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Charity leaders from Medical Aid for Palestinians, the British Red Cross, Unicef UK and Christian Aid met with the monarch in-person on Thursday.

Charles, who is president of the British Red Cross, discussed the acute humanitarian situation in the region, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.

Life-saving humanitarian aid has finally crossed the border from Egypt into #Gaza, with the support of the Egyptian Red Crescent and Palestine Red Crescent. It brings hope, but the need there is still enormous. If you can, please donate: https://t.co/jC1IiW5fvb pic.twitter.com/p7MUT3ThUD  British Red Cross  (@BritishRedCross) October 25, 2023

The British Red Cross said the King had made a generous donation to its fundraising appeal.

We are immensely grateful to HM King Charles for his generous donation to our Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territory appeal, the charity wrote on social media.

Aid agencies are calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict to protect civilians and humanitarian workers, and ensure safe and sustained access to aid.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stressed the need for temporary breaks in the bombings to allow Israeli hostages and British nationals to be freed.

Buckingham Palace did not comment on whether the King discussed the plight of the hostages and the work to free them during the private meeting.

But the International Committee of the Red Cross, in its neutral intermediary role, assisted with the recent release of four Israeli hostages. Hamas is still holding more than 200 people.

The King held the audience at Buckingham Palace (Jane Barlow/PA)

At the audience were the chief executive of Unicef UK Jon Sparkes, Medical Aid for Palestinians chief executive Melanie Ward, vice chair of the board of trustees for Medical Aid for Palestinians Shireen Jayyusi, Christian Aid chief executive Patrick Watt, and Rory Moylan, head of region for the Middle East, North Africa and Europe at the British Red Cross.

The British Red Cross has described the situation in Gaza as an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with vital resources unable to get through.

It said the most pressing issue is the lack of food and water, and that recent aid convoys were just a drop in the ocean.

Israel has only in recent days agreed to allow aid into Gaza, having besieged the Hamas-ruled area, preventing essentials such as water, food and fuel from reaching more than two million Palestinians.

But the UN has warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory.

The King also held an audience with the Crown Prince of Kuwait on Wednesday when he also discussed the ongoing conflict, which has already claimed nearly 8,000 lives on both sides.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the military is preparing for a full-scale ground invasion to crush Hamas.

In a landmark speech last week, Charles stressed the vital need for mutual understanding among religions in times of international turmoil and heart-breaking loss of life.

Earlier in the month, he held talks with Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi, at the Palace to discuss the horrors of events in Israel and how to support interfaith harmony in Britain in distressing and difficult times.

Buckingham Palace said Charles condemned Hamass barbaric acts of terrorism after its October 7 attack on Israel  which killed 1,400 people.
Emergency food providers in Brighton and Hove fear being forced to close in the next six months due to soaring demand amid the cost-of-living crisis, a report has revealed.

Food banks and relief organisations around the city are spending 15,800 a week to stock up on supplies  an increase of 59% from 2022.

An annual survey of Brighton and Hoves Emergency Food Network (EFN) found that nearly half of the citys emergency providers were warning they have insufficient funds for next year.

The report by non-profit organisation Brighton and Hove Food Partnership (BHFP) said: This level of expenditure is unsustainable and some food banks are already having to pause new referrals or reduce the amount of food they can offer.

Almost half the citys emergency food providers report not having enough money for the year ahead.

Food projects have asked BHFP to campaign for more support from local and national government. Importantly, they would like to see an end to food insecurity becoming the new normal.

Findings from the report show 6,441 people in the East Sussex city rely on emergency food services every week, a rise of 25% from 2022.

Nearly a third of recipients are children.

Students and people in work are newer groups asking for help amid the cost-of-living crisis, the survey found.

Vanessa OShea, BHFPs community food team manager, said: Food poverty in Brighton is becoming the new normal and that is simply unacceptable.

Our new report shows thousands in #Brighton depend on weekly food support.https://t.co/yB8Bum5DA7  With food costs rising & donations falling, food projects want us to campaign for more help from local & national government, plus against #foodinsecurity being the new normal. pic.twitter.com/A8BR4srcXu  B&H Food Partnership #GoldFoodCity (@btnhovefood) October 25, 2023

The level of expenditure EFN members are enduring is unsustainable. National and local governments, employers and educational bodies all need to wake up, face their responsibilities and take action now.

The BHFP established the network in 2013 when just six food banks existed in the area.

By July this year, there were 51 members of the EFN, made up of food banks, community meal providers, affordable food projects and others.

Of 46 services that responded to the survey this year, 26 said food and donation levels had dropped, and 24 said stock levels were significantly down.

The survey found that 23 suppliers were using financial reserves.

Cooking oil, meat, fresh fruit and vegetables and eggs were ingredients in high demand, the findings showed.

A Food SOS Harvest Festival campaign has been set up urging schools and businesses to co-ordinate donations to food providers through the winter period.
Heathrow Airport has said it will handle more passengers this year than previously expected after another summer of recovery in the travel market.

The airport, based to the west of London, also saw its losses shrink for the first nine months of 2023 as a result.

It said on Thursday that it expects to see 79.3 million passengers use the site this year, ahead of previous predictions of between 70 million and 78 million.

Heathrow said it welcomed 29 million passengers this summer, taking the total for the first nine months of the year to 59 million.

Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye (Heathrow/PA)

It saw revenues increase by around 30% to 2.74 billion for the nine-month period as a result.

The airport business therefore saw its losses shrink considerably to 19 million for the period, from a 442 million loss over the same period last year.

It comes a week after the UK competition watchdog said it was broadly in favour of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulators plan to reduce how much Heathrow could charge airlines.

The CAA said the cap on Heathrows average charge per passenger must be reduced from 31.57 for 2023 and last year to 25.43 over the next three years.

However, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) did say some aspects of the pricing decision should be reconsidered.

Heathrow chief executive Thomas Woldbye, who started in the role earlier this month, said: Weve got a clear plan to connect all of Britain to global growth, a flight path to net zero by 2050, and while we have a tight settlement from the CAA, we will upgrade the airport for our customers.

Im excited to take on the challenge and looking forward to working with Team Heathrow to build an even stronger hub for Britain in the next decade.

Separately on Thursday, the CAA also said the amount that planes will have to pay to fund the UKs air traffic control system will rise by 17 after widespread disruption this summer.

The charge will go from 47 to 64 per plane for the period between 2023 and 2027.
UK and Irish trade unions have joined forces to attack controversial legislation on strikes, warning it could affect UK-EU relations.

The TUC and ICTU said the new law on providing minimum levels of service during industrial action could put the UK in breach of its labour obligations under the UK-EU Trade and Co-operation agreement.

The two union organisations warned this could lead to hefty sanctions and stoke tensions between the UK and the EU.

In a joint statement, they said: This matters for the UKs future trading relationship with Europe  including the Republic of Ireland.

It risks putting the UK in breach of its labour standards commitments in the Trade and Co-operation Agreement with the EU  exposing the UK to hefty sanctions, and stoking UK-EU tensions.

This is the last thing working people in Northern Ireland and the wider UK need, and its no good for working people in the Republic of Ireland and the wider EU either.

TUC general secretary Paul Nowak said: The Strikes Act is dire for workers in the UK and across Europe.

The UKs new laws are an attack on the fundamental right to strike  theyre unworkable, undemocratic and very likely unlawful. This really matters for UK trade with Europe.

It could put the UK in breach of its post-Brexit trade agreement with the EU. That could mean financial penalties on the UK, which would hurt workers and businesses, and it would sour the UKs relationship with the EU, including the Republic of Ireland.

Thats why weve joined forces with Irish unions to warn about this pernicious legislation.

Ministers are playing fast and loose with international commitments because they want to distract from their appalling economic record.

A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said: The minimum service legislation is compatible with all our international trade obligations  many members of the EU already have minimum service levels legislation in place covering a broad range of services.

Weve been clear that there needs to be a reasonable balance between the right of workers to strike and the rights of the public, who work hard and expect essential services that they pay for to be there when needed.
A record number of 18-year-olds from deprived areas have applied to the most selective universities and courses, according to newly released data from Ucas.

The university admissions service has published its application data for courses with an early October deadline  which includes medicine, dentistry and veterinary degrees, as well as courses at Oxford and Cambridge.

The data showed that 3,160 18-year-olds from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, defined as coming from an area of the UK in the bottom 20% for the proportion of young people participating in higher education, had applied for these courses.

This figure was up 7% from 2,950 applicants during last years admissions cycle.

The interim chief executive of Ucas, Sander Kristel, said it was encouraging to see students from the most disadvantaged areas aiming high with their choices for next year.

There was also a 6% increase in UK-domiciled applicants declaring receipt of free school meals, which Ucas said was in the context of rising numbers of pupils in England receiving them.

In total, 39,310 18-year-olds from the UK applied by the October 16 deadline, the second highest number on record.

However, there was an 18% decrease in the total number of 19-year-old UK applicants  to 5,580 from 6,770 last year.

There was also a 7% drop in the number of 18-year-olds from the UK applying to study medicine  at 11,750, compared with 12,700 last year.

China remains the largest source market for international applicants, with 4,340 students from the country applying for courses with an October deadline.

The largest growth in international applicants since last year has come from the US and Singapore  with applications from the US increasing by 9% and Singapore by 6%.

Mr Kristel said: Its encouraging to see a record number of young students from the most disadvantaged areas aiming high with their choices for next year.

The narrowing of the disadvantage gap, against the backdrop of a global pandemic, shows the effort we have made as a sector, to ensure everyone in society can aspire to study the most competitive courses.

The deadline for all other undergraduate courses is January 31 2024.
Remembrance poppies will be plastic-free and recyclable for the first time this year in a move to reduce single-use plastics.

The Royal British Legions Poppy Appeal 2023 is launching a new poppy, coming as the first redesign of the historic symbol in a generation.

The British public will be able to buy the plastic-free version from thousands of volunteers across the UK or from major supermarkets from Thursday.

They will also be able to purchase existing poppies with plastic, which can be recycled at Sainsburys supermarkets, as the charity looks to clear out its remaining stock.

There have been several versions of the poppy since 1921 (Royal British Legion/PA)

The annual campaign calls for the public to wear a poppy as a show of solidarity towards the armed forces community in the lead up to Remembrance Sunday, which falls on November 12 this year.

It also raises vital funds to support veterans, serving personnel and their families all year round.

Celebrities including actress Dame Joanna Lumley, singer and presenter Mica Paris MBE and broadcaster Gyles Brandreth will be showing their support for the new design, the British Royal Legion said.

The charity said it has been developing the plastic-free poppy for the past three years as part of its efforts to become more sustainable and reduce its use of single-use plastic.

The new flowers are made from 100% paper, produced from a blend of renewable fibres from responsible sources, which can be recycled in household collections.

The Royal British Legion said 50% of the paper also comes from the offcuts created during the production of paper coffee cups.

The poppies feature a black centre embossed with the words Poppy Appeal, and no longer have a plastic stem or centre.

They can be fastened with a pin in the stem, worn in a buttonhole or a stick-on version is available.

The Royal British Legion, which produces 170,000 poppies a day to meet the demand ahead of Remembrance Sunday, said an analysis from University College London scientists suggests the new design could reduce emissions by 40%.

Dame Joanna Lumley is supporting the new design (Royal British Legion/PA)

It is the first redesign of the poppies since the mid-1990s and the latest in a series of designs since it was first used to raise funds in 1921 following the First World War.

There have been more than 10 versions of the poppy throughout the years, including those from hand-crafted red silk with wire stems in the 1920s and a cardboard austerity poppy in wartime in the 1940s.

D-Day and Royal Navy veteran John Roberts, 99, from Whitstable, said: Ive been wearing a poppy for more than 70 years, all different versions from cardboard ones, cotton ones and ones with a plastic centre and todays new plastic-free version but while the poppies have changed, what will always remain is its important meaning.

When I see people wearing a poppy, I think of all those we lost in World War Two.

During the D-Day landings, my ship was based just offshore at Sword Beach. I witnessed the destruction happening on land  Id never seen anything like it and never saw anything like it again.

I was one of the lucky ones who survived as our ship was narrowly missed by a torpedo, so I wear my poppy to remember those who werent so lucky.

Andy Taylor-Whyte, director of the campaign, said: Were so proud that this year we have our new plastic-free poppy too, so that the public can wear this poignant symbol of remembrance with less impact on the environment.

Since the first Poppy Appeal in 1921 to today, public donations have provided a lifeline for service people and their families, and last year, we helped more than 27,000 people in the armed forces community.

As a veteran myself, I am grateful to the public for giving what they can to support the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal this year.

The charity worked alongside designers Matter and bespoke paper supplier James Cropper on the new design.

All funds raised will support serving personnel, veterans and their families in a range of ways, from help with the cost of living, mental wellbeing and housing, to support with recovery after trauma or illness.
Comedian Sara Pascoe has revealed that she has had her second child with the assistance of in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

The Great British Sewing Bee host, 42, already shares a son with her husband, the Australian comic Steen Raskopoulos.

In an Instagram post, Pascoe wrote: Ive been in a hormone hole for three weeks so excuse my lateness- allow me to introduce baby Albie.

As a 42 year old infertile woman I cant believe my luck to have had two children (ivf). I also cant believe how much washing there is.

Ill see you at gigs later in the year when Ive stopped crying every three minutes, lots of love ps last photo is @steenrasko I think his face sums up the post partum period very well.

Pascoe, who has previously been outspoken about her use of IVF, also shared images of her introducing Albie to her first child along with images of Raskopoulos.

Pascoe received congratulations from fellow comedians including Katherine Ryan, Josh Widdicombe, Joanne McNally and Sarah Millican.

Alongside heart emojis, Ryan wrote: I love Albie and all you four.

In apparent reference to the Rob Beckett And Josh Widdicombes Parenting Hell podcast, Widdicombe wrote: We record 10am Mondays.

Millican wrote: Ah massive congrats to you all xxx.

In May, Pascoe had announced her second pregnancy alongside a picture of her baby bump.

On X, formerly known as Twitter, BBC Ones The Great British Sewing Bee wrote: Sending lots of love to Sara and her new baby!
UK Border Force teams are set up in Egypt to quickly assist British nationals to escape from Gaza when a crossing is opened, the Prime Minister has revealed.

Rishi Sunak said he is pushing for a pause in the fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach Palestinians and also create a safer environment for UK citizens to leave the bombarded 25-mile strip.

The Foreign Office is in contact with around 200 UK nationals in Gaza, the Prime Minister said.

The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza is the only border point in the territory that is not controlled by Tel Aviv.

Israel has only in recent days agreed to allow aid into the country through the crossing, having besieged the Hamas-ruled area to prevent essentials such as water, food and fuel from reaching more than two million Palestinians.

The border crossing into north-east Egypt is likely to be the main exit route for those trapped in Gaza but it is currently closed other than for aid deliveries.

Cairo has reportedly blamed Israeli bombings around Rafah for it not being open for foreign nationals to pass through.

Mr Sunak has called for temporary breaks or specific pauses in the violence that could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed.

Fewer than five Britons are believed to be among the hostages as officials fear that some of those missing have been killed.

But many more are currently trapped in Gaza as Israel continues to conduct air strikes and raids on the territory in its fightback against Hamass assault on October 7 that saw 1,400 people, mainly civilians, killed on Israeli soil.

The Prime Minister, taking questions after a speech in central London about artificial intelligence on Thursday, said the UK Government recognised that for British nationals to leave there needs to be a safer environment, which of course necessitates specific pauses, which are distinct from a ceasefire.

He added: Were very keen to be able to bring them out and bring them home.

What I can tell you is weve pre-positioned Border Force teams to Egypt.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak faced questions about the situation in Gaza after his speech on AI (Peter Nicholls/PA)

So that if there is a possibility for our nationals to cross the Rafah crossing, were ready to get them in and bring them back.

It is not something we can do immediately but when the moment arises, well be ready to take it quickly.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden chaired a Cobra meeting on Thursday to discuss the situation in the Middle East and next steps on pushing for the release of Hamass captives, with about 220 people thought to be being held.

It is about ensuring we have cross-governmental ministerial grip on this situation, he told Sky News ahead of the meeting.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman told reporters during a briefing later that ministers were working night and day to secure the release of UK hostages.

It comes after the Israeli military said that troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, saying it was in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion.

Thousands of Palestinians have already died in retaliatory strikes by Israel and an even greater loss of life could come if it launches a full invasion aimed at crushing Hamas, the militant group which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The UK Government, which has continued to back Israels right to defend itself as long as it toes the line of international law, is continuing to resist calls for a ceasefire.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a cessation of violence.

But the Prime Ministers official spokesman told reporters a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas.

The No 10 official said he would not speculate about whether ministers would support a ceasefire if Israel succeeded in rescuing hostages from Gaza.

Mr Dowden would not be drawn on how long Britain envisages any pause in the fighting, which is also backed by Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party, would need to last for.

Mr Sunaks deputy said he was heartbroken by the mounting casualties in Gaza but said Israel could not eliminate Hamas without there being some civilian impact.

The way to stop further losses of innocent civilian lives is to remove the terrorist threat and to move to a position where we can restore stability and peace to this region, he told Sky News.
Campaigners have criticised water companies for paying out 1.4 billion in dividends as the industry regulator urged several to address big holes in their finances.

Ofwat, which oversees the water sector in England and Wales, named Thames Water, Southern Water, SES Water and South East Water as the four worst-performing water companies that need to turn around their finances.

Its latest yearly report revealed four other firms are also causing concern over their long-term finances.

It comes as water companies continues to face scrutiny over sewage spills, crumbling infrastructure and governance issues.

Campaign groups hit out at the sector and the Government on Thursday after the regulator released dividend figures totalling 1.4 billion.

United Utilities dished out 452 million to shareholders and Severn Trent paid out 426 million during the year, the data shows.

Northumbrian Water also paid out 111 million, Anglican Water paid out 161 million and Thames Water paid out 45 million to shareholders.

Meanwhile, recent analysis by the Liberal Democrats found executives have been paid more than 41 million in bonuses, benefits and incentives over the past three years.

Louise Reddy, a policy officer for Surfers Against Sewage, said: Its sickening that water company bosses rake it in whilst our waterways fall to ruin.

Water company finances are a shambles. They rack up enormous fines and make financial losses, all whilst paying out millions to shareholders and CEOs.

Thats why were calling for a ban on shareholder payouts if water companies fail to comply with environmental regulations, as well as a cap on bonuses.

GMB national secretary Andy Prendergast said: Shareholders are trousering fortunes with money that should be used to restore infrastructure and tackle sewage spills and leakage.

Ofwat and ministers have been asleep at the wheel. Naming and shaming companies is not enough  we need a regulator with sharper teeth.

Megan Corton Scott, Greenpeace UKs political campaigner, said: What purpose do water companies actually serve, other than to line the pockets of their shareholders?

Theyve treated our countryside like an open toilet and pumped our waterways full of sewage. Theyve sold off vital reservoirs and put our water supplies at risk.

The Government needs to step in and force these companies to clean up their act and do the job we pay them to do before a single penny more is paid out to shareholders.

Gareth Cunningham, director of conservation at the Marine Conservation Society, said: Untreated sewage is pouring into our rivers and seas, and no UK river meets the legal water quality requirements for chemical pollution.

Our commitment to cleaner, healthier waters must run deeper than corporate profits.

We urgently need significant investment in rejuvenating outdated sewage systems, enforcing better regulation and more stringent government oversight to ensure that customer funds are invested where they truly matter.

Paul de Zylva, nature campaigner at Friends of the Earth, said: Theres clearly no shortfall in money, but instead of using it to make essential repairs to our dilapidated sewage system, bosses and shareholders have simply lined their pockets.

Now water companies have the gall to ask customers to stump up the cash through higher bills to pay for the work, all in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis.

The water regulator and the Government are just as culpable for these failings as the companies themselves.

Ofwat recently gained new powers to stop companies paying dividends if they would risk their financial stability or to step in if the payments are not being linked to performance.

This is set to kick in for the next financial year.

Earlier this year, the watchdog said it wanted to make companies more accountable for their actions after saying too many were giving out bonuses to executives that do not reflect the companys performance for customers and the environment.

Last month, it announced that water companies who were under-performing against their targets will return around 114 million to customers by taking it off their bills for next year.

David Black, Ofwats chief executive, said: We expect companies to maintain a level of financial headroom so they can manage periods of volatility and meet their obligations to customers and the environment.

Where we have seen cause for concern, we have also seen some companies responding to the challenge and we expect them to continue to work on improving their financial resilience.

Rebecca Pow, the water minister for the Governments Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), said it was encouraging to see more investment into the sector.

However, we are clear that water companies must not profit from environmental damage, she said.

That is why we gave Ofwat new powers to impose tougher rules on water company dividends and we welcome the tighter restrictions on bonuses too.

A Water UK spokesperson said: Financial resilience is an important foundation for allowing companies to deliver what is set to be the largest investment programme in the sectors history.

Water companies have recently proposed 96 billion to ensure the future security of our water supply and to reduce overflow spills into rivers and seas as fast as possible.
Vice mayor of Beijing given warning for dereliction of duty in fatal hospital fire

Xinhua) 10:05, October 26, 2023

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A vice mayor of Beijing has been handed a punishment for neglecting his duties and failing to fulfill his responsibilities in a hospital fire in April that killed 29 people.

Jin Wei, also a standing committee member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Beijing Municipal Committee, was given a warning by the National Supervisory Commission (NSC), an official statement said on Wednesday.

According to an investigation launched by the CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection and the NSC, Jin, as the vice mayor in charge of health work, failed to fully implement the CPC Central Committee's instructions and requirements on work safety, and failed to pay sufficient attention to safety hazards at medical facilities in Beijing.

On the same day, it was announced that 41 public servants, including the heads of the CPC committee of Fengtai District and the district government, would receive due penalties for their acts of dereliction of duties in the fire.

Also, Chinese public security organs have launched a probe into 20 persons involved in the incident, including the president of the hospital. Procuratorial organs have approved the arrest of 19 of them.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
TOKYO, Oct 26 ( News On Japan ) - A man on trial for barricaded himself in a doctor's house with a shotgun for 11 hours in Fujimino City, Saitama Prefecture, fatally shooting the male resident, said he had no intention of killing the victim.

The 67-year-old defendant is charged with shooting and killing a 44-year-old doctor with a shotgun last January. He had dropped into the doctor's home to pay his respects following the illness-related death of his mother the previous day.

The defense argued, "He aimed for the right leg, but due to a poor shooting posture combined with the recoil, the shot hit the chest."

Meanwhile, the prosecution pointed out, "He had believed that the doctor was to blame for his mother's death and fired with the intention of committing a murder-suicide."
You may not know it, but Indiana has been home to a cottage caviar industry since the 1990s. It's based on the Ohio River and the source of the roe is the odd-looking American paddlefish.

Here's what you need to know about paddlefish and Hoosier caviar.

What is an American paddlefish?

The American paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) is a prehistoric behemoth from the same group of sh as sturgeon. Living up to 30 years, the filter-feeder with a prominent paddle-shaped snout can grow to about seven feet long and weigh as much as 160 pounds. The oldest fossil records of paddlefish date back about 400 million years  well before the age of dinosaurs, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Why are they called paddlefish?

The name is pretty obvious, but if you want confirmation a fact sheet from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources says it comes from their paddle-like nose. "Polyodon is Greek for 'many tooth' in reference to the numerous long gill rakers and spathula is Latin for 'spatula' or 'blade,'" according to the DNR, which says the fish are sometimes called "spoonbill, spoonbill cat, shovelnose cat, and boneless cat."

Chris Epperson works to pull up a net while Derrick Hammond removes and measures a paddlefish, or spoonbill, Sunday, April 16, 2023, on the Ohio River just outside Troy, Indiana.

Are there paddlefish in Indiana?

Native to the Mississippi River basin, paddlefish can be found today in rivers and lakes in more than 20 states. That habitat includes the Wabash and Ohio rivers, where commercial fishermen have been hauling them in for more than a century.

He's back: After felony conviction and 5-year fishing ban, the Caviar King returns to the Ohio River

Why do people want to catch paddlefish?

Paddlefish once were "the most important commercial species in the Mississippi River Valley," sought after for both its meat and roe, according to the USFWS. But their numbers fell sharply as commercial fishing pressure peaked around 1900.

Since then, paddlefish have gone through what wildlife experts describe as boom-and-bust cycles. The population swings were marked by periods of over-fishing and then, as the number of fish dwindles, a decline in fishing due to unprofitability. The down periods helped the population recover, but it sometimes took years.

What's the status of paddlefish in the Ohio River?

The Ohio River became a hot spot for commercial fishermen seeking paddlefish in the 1990s due to a growing demand spurred by a shortage of caviar from over-fishing in the Caspian Sea, which had been the a primary source of the culinary delicacy.

During the caviar making process Sunday, April 16, 2023, Vicki Cox adds a salt mixture to paddlefish roe inside a processing area on the Cox's property in English, Indiana.

While there's no accurate tally of the harvest since then, records from Indiana and Kentucky show fishermen have pulled tons of roe  worth tens of millions of dollars  from the river since 2000.

How does Indiana protect paddlefish?

It's illegal for sport anglers to take a paddlefish from state waters. Licensed commercial fishermen can take them from the Ohio River, but only if they first obtain a roe harvesters license (the number is capped at 15). Licensed roe harvesters may only keep paddlefish over 32 inches, measured from the eye to the fork in the tail, and must submit daily catch records.

State and federal conservation officers have also conducted several undercover stings since 2000.

Who is Indiana's Caviar King?

David Cox, a long-time commercial fisherman from English in Crawford County claims the title of Indiana's de facto Caviar King. It's a claim he's backed up more than three decades of hard work and a deep knowledge of the Ohio River. Since 1999, Cox and his family have caught and processed more than 15 tons of caviar worth millions of dollars.

Cox, 69, has been away from commercial fishing since 2018 following federal convictions for keeping an undersized paddlefish and possessing guns as a felon. But he's planning a return when the new season opens Nov. 1.

David Cox steers his boat Sunday, April 16, 2023, as he prepares to pull his nets for the season. "Who else can say they have an office like this," he said. "I watch the leaves come down in the fall and come back in the spring." Paddlefish season begins in November and runs through April.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana caviar is a thing. Really. Here are 7 things to know about it.
Xtream Arena in Coralville awaits 40 teams to arrive and partake in some high-stakes volleyball for the Iowa high school volleyball state tournament, which kicks off on Monday, Oct. 30.

Before that, teams had to emerge in their respective regions. Heres what we learned about the contenders for a state championship in the large classes after their regionals completed Tuesday night.

More: Here's the Iowa high school volleyball state tournament brackets for 5A, 4A and 3A

1. Powers of each class take care of business

No surprises here, the best of the best in each class so far this season held their own.Dowling Catholic won all six of their sets played in regionals against Des Moines Lincoln and then Linn-Mar in the final. Junior Ella Rogers was a standout in the regional semifinals against Lincoln, with 25 assists and three aces.

The same goes for Clear Creek Amana, who smoked their opponents in the regionals to secure the top seed in the 4A state tournament. They head to Coralville with a 45-0 record, trailing only Dike-New Hartford in total wins this season (46).

Mount Vernon in 3A had a tough challenge in facing Anamosa in the regional final, but they had zero issues on their way to winning all three sets to move onto the state tournament. Theyll face some serious competition in Coralville, which well dive into here in a moment.

All three squads here are the top seed of their class and should be expected to do some damage.

2. Ankeny Centennial, Ankeny to face off in first round of state volleyball tournament

The last time these two teams played, Ankeny Centennial dropped the first two sets before turning around and winning three in a row to escape with a win.

Now, theyll face each other with a bit more at stake.You couldnt ask for a matchup with more storylines to follow as these two rivals face off. What will be interesting to follow is the balanced attack of Ankeny (seven players averaging over a kill per set, only one over three per set) and Delaney Miller of Centennial leading the charge with 4.2 kills per set.

More: Ankeny Centennial volleyball has high expectations, but embraces 'family environment'

Who emerges here will likely start with the depth of Ankeny against the stars of Centennial, whichever can shine the brightest will have the advantage to advance.

3. Johnston continues its hot streak

Johnston's Jadeyn Pundt (4) sets up Jazmine Bell (3) during Tuesday's Class 5A regional final volleyball match against Waukee. Johnston won 3-0 at home to advance to the state tournament in Coralville, which begins Oct. 30.

Weve touched on the Dragons before, but they just continue to impress.Coming into the 5A state tournament, they have won 19 straight and have only dropped four sets since Sept. 30. In their region, they defeated Marshalltown and Waukee in every set played, propped up by Jadeyn Pundt recording 40 assists against the Warriors in the regional final.

Theyll face Pleasant Valley in the first round of the state tournament, a tough first test, but they have to be among the most feared teams in the state at this point.

4. Norwalk springs upset on North Polk, will face Clear Creek Amana in first round

One of the few upsets thus far, Norwalk upended North Polk for a regional title in a five-set thriller.Freshman Hadley Michael was the standout, posting 48 of Norwalks 54 assists in the match. She was often setting senior Noelle Sutcliffe up for kills, as Sutcliffe finished the night with 23.

Despite this being an upset by seed, Norwalk has been a steady competitor all year and heads into the tourney with a 26-14 record. Theyll have a much bigger upset to pull off when they take on top-seed Clear Creek Amana in the first round of the state tournament.

5. Indianola makes way through tough regional, draws Marion

Indianola had a tough draw facing a 30-11 Glenwood squad in the regional title match, but they handled it just fine by sweeping their competition in three sets. Senior Tori Runyan had 36 of the teams 37 assists in the match, as well as five kills and 10 digs of her own to round out a complete performance.

Theyll take on Marion in the first round, who heads into the state tournament at 26-12 after toppling Ballard in three sets in the regional final.

6. Xavier takes care of business, can the reigning 4A champions repeat?

Xavier defeated Decorah and Waverly-Shell Rock in their region to advance to the 4A state tournament, keeping their hopes of winning back-to-back state titles alive. Last season, Xavier defeated Clear Creek Amana in the 4A state title match by three sets to one, but the Clippers are at a different level this time around.

If the Saints can pull this off, itll be behind the duo of senior setter Molly Garrison and junior outside hitter Libby Fandel. This season, Garrison is averaging 9.6 assists per set, often setting Fandel for a kill who is averaging a 4A-best 4.9 kills per set.

7. Des Moines Christian, Assumption to clash in first round

These two teams made the semifinals in last year's 3A state tournament and Assumption went on to win the whole thing, but someone is going to have to fall short of that this year.The star power between Des Moines Christian senior Gabby Lombardi and Assumptions Ellie Schubert is one to watch. Lombardi leads the Lions in assists (4.2 per set), kills (3.1) per set and averages two digs per set. She sets the tone for the Lions in nearly every aspect, while Schubert leads her team with 8.8 assists per set. Because of Schuberts play from the setter spot, six players for Assumption average over a kill per set.

This is perhaps the most competitive first-round match we'll see in the state tournament, barring something else coming together in 2A and 1A.

8. Western Christian tone setters for class 3A after dominating region

The reigning 2A champions moved their way up to 3A this year, but that didnt stop them from rolling into the state tournament. In three matches played, the Wolfpack won all nine sets in the regional tournament.

In the regional final against 27-6 Forest City, Western Christian got major contributions from several players. Senior Shayna Van Dyken and sophomore Bentley Bliek added 27 kills between them, while senior Breya Van Kley pitched in 26 assists.

Its a crowded room in 3A with the aforementioned Mount Vernon, Assumption and Des Moines Christian, but the Wolfpack seemed poised to make a run here.

Eli McKown covers high school sports and wrestling for the Des Moines Register. Contact him at Emckown@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @EMcKown23.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: What we learned going into Iowa high school volleyball state tournament
Illinois Speaker of the House Emanuel "Chris" Welch, D-Hillside, center, speaks during a committee hearing on unionization efforts for legislative staff, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

A bill allowing the unionization of legislative staff passed in the Illinois House of Representatives on Wednesday and now heads to the Senate.

House Bill 4148 passed in a 74-35 vote along party lines following a short debate. As promised, House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch filed amendments to his bill after it passed in committee yesterday.

Mostly correcting drafting errors, the amendment changes the creation date of the Office of State Legislative Labor Relations  which would represent staff in collective bargaining matters  to one year before the bill's effective date on July 1, 2026. It also reduces the original 30-day notice to strike to five days.

More: Illinois joins states filing suit against Facebook and Instagram's parent company Meta

From janitors to researchers, every member of our legislative staff is critical to what we do in Springfield, said Welch in a news release. They deserve the right to unionize, and I am proud to spearhead the legislation that makes Illinois one of the first states in our nation to allow that to happen.

Existing state law prevents public public employees from engaging in collective bargaining Michael LeRoy, a labor law expert at the University of Illinois, told committee members on Tuesday. Protections provided by the recently enacted Workers' Rights Amendment are also unclear, he said.

The push to unionize has mostly been led by House Democrat staffers, but the bill would apply to Democrat, Republican, and non-partisan staff in the House and Senate.

Bargaining over the state budget, organizational structure, and hiring of new employees would not be matters of discussion in collective bargaining through the legislation. Strikes would also not be permitted during months with at least one day of legislative session scheduled.

Several workers would still not retain the ability to collectively bargain including lawmakers, the office of the Legislative Inspector General, those in managerial roles, and short-term employees. Employees who can unionize may also be subject to a "fair-share" fee in proportion to collective bargaining costs.

Welch said he expects further amendments to come in the Senate, meaning the bill would return to the House if it passes in the other chamber.

Contact Patrick M. Keck: 312-549-9340, pkeck@gannett.com, twitter.com/@pkeckreporter.

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Dems, GOP split on legislative union bill in House vote
The Rafah border crossing is the only land route out of Gaza not controlled by the Israeli government, and when there is no fighting it is rarely more than an hours drive from most places in the Palestinian territory.

But for Palestinian Americans who have been trapped in Gaza for nearly three weeks and are desperate to escape the escalating war between Israel and Hamas, it feels a million miles away.

Israeli missile attacks  launched in retaliation for the Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack that killed more than 1,400  have made getting around treacherous. Many of the roads have become impassable. And with gas supplies dwindling, finding a way to the border is increasingly difficult and expensive.

Taxi fare used to be around $20, but now it jumped to around $150  that is for those who can find a taxi that still has fuel, said Maha Elbanna, a U.S. citizen who lived in New Jersey for a dozen years before she returned to Gaza 15 years ago to work for an aid organization.

Maha Elbanna, a 49-year-old from New Jersey who is stuck in Gaza where she's an aid worker. (Courtesy Maha Elbanna)

The trapped Palestinian Americans say nobody seems to know when they will be allowed to enter Egypt through the Rafah crossing, which was shut down after Hamas launched the deadly attack and in response Israel instituted a full siege.

Those waiting in limbo as bombs fall describe living on water, bread and hummus, although it's becoming increasingly difficult to find drinking water.

Jason Shawa, a Palestinian American who works as a translator, is stuck in central Gaza with his wife and two daughters. They're living in a cabin with about 57 people, including 22 children, and everyone is "extremely drained and exhausted," he said.

Their generator recently broke, and they had to haul it to a mechanic on a donkey cart. After the repairs, it's "barely functioning," he said.

They have three light bulbs that they turn on at night using power from a small solar panel system that provides "minimal electricity."

One bulb lights the patio where people sleep outside, another a room where all the children sleep and the third a room for the elderly.

As for internet service, it's undependable, he said

"Internet has become a major concern now," Shawa said. "The internet provider sent us a message yesterday morning that they will stop providing internet within 48 hours due to the lack of diesel fuel, which is needed for generators to keep the system going.

They charge their phones with whatever electricity remains from solar power, but "we virtually have no cellular connection."

"You have to try dozens of times, dialing and redialing, he said. You get 10 to 20 seconds speech on the phone, then it cuts and then you have to try again.

As the situation spirals, there's little sign a diplomatic impasse that's keeping Palestinian Americans from passing through Rafah into Egypt will be resolved immediately.

Four hundred U.S. citizens and permanent residents and 400 more of their dependents have requested help from the State Department to leave Gaza through the Rafah border, a source familiar with the situation on the ground told NBC News.

It is our very sincere hope that they would be able to leave in the coming days, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller told reporters Tuesday.

Lynn Hastings, a Canadian who is the United Nations resident coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, said the Americans stuck in Gaza have little choice.

Nabil Alshurafa, a Palestinian American who lives in Chicago, said his mother, Naela, was visiting family in Gaza when the fighting erupted and has tried and failed to cross the border four times, twice before the State Department starting sending out guidance.

During her second attempt on Oct. 10, Alshurafa said, chaos erupted amid shelling near the Rafah crossing. He said the bus she was on pulled over and the passengers were ordered to get out.

Alshurafa said the guides who had been hired to escort them over the border panicked and tossed the passports theyd collected back at the passengers.

Its so chaotic, Alshurafa said. Everyones trying, crying, trying to get out. And theres this guy just grabbing passports and just literally throwing it out. Like, throwing it at people.

2023 Israel-Hamas war (Majdi Fathi / NurPhoto via AP)

Abood Okal, who lives in Medway, Massachusetts, and is stranded in Gaza with his wife and their 1-year-old son, said in a voice memo Wednesday that they are staying just 10 minutes away from the Egyptian border.

Now, Okal said, they have run out of milk for their son, Yousef, and airstrikes have intensified in the last few days.

"It would be his first night ever in his entire life to go to sleep without having milk" Okal said.

Yousef has already had trouble sleeping, his father said.

"Weve been trying to soothe him as much as we can and keep him shielded from the wrath of the war," Okal said. "And wed like to think that were continuing to do that successfully."

Dr. Barbara Zind, a Colorado pediatrician who has been working in Gaza, agreed that conditions for the would-be escapees clustered near the Rafah crossing are deteriorating rapidly.

I am comfortable at a U.N. facility in the south with about 40 other people working for humanitarian aid programs, Zind said in a text message.

She said about 16,000 Palestinians are also taking shelter at the facility.

There are probably over 400 people per toilet, Zind texted. They get 1 pita and  can of canned meat per person per day.

Fares Abu Fares, a volunteer with a Palestinian childrens relief fund, whose wife and children are in the U.S., said he considered getting out of Gaza.

But Wednesday, Fares said, there were explosions in the Gaza neighborhood where the rest of his extended family lives. Now he's mad.

"They just hit us by about six, seven bombs," Fares said, sounding out of breath. "My whole house was shaking. I have debris all over my hands."

"I've decided I'm not leaving," he said.

Other Palestinian Americans are also sitting tight while looking for alternative ways to get to the Rafah border when it opens.

Fady Isleem, a Palestinian American from Columbus, Ohio, whose mother is trapped there and is staying a 40-minute drive from Rafah, said that one of his uncles owns a car that could get them to the crossing but that it runs on diesel fuel that is now impossible to find.

He told me this morning hes going to try to use the vegetable oil, Isleem said.
A father of two has been identified as one of the victims in the devastating Louisiana car crash involving at least 168 vehicles.

The death toll has risen to eight after Louisiana State Police confirmed another person passed away at the hospital.

Among them is Qutub Singh Negi, 40, an executive chef for Punjabi Dhaba, working in both Hammond and Kenner, who frequently used the I-55 to commute between the locations, according to WSDU.

He was on his way to work when he was caught up in the catastrophic pile-up on Monday near New Orleans, initially caused by super fog that limited the visibility of the drivers.

The super fog was caused by smoke from marsh fires in the area that combined with fog, which created dangerously low visibility.

His close friend, Raj Pannu, told WDSU that Mr Neji usually went to work around 11am, but on that particular day, he went early to deliver boxed lunches and left around 9am.

Mr Pannu told the outlet that his family was distraught by his passing and had just celebrated 15 years of marriage with his wife.

"I cant even describe. She is talking, then she cries, he said.

One car was seen to have gone over the edge of the road into the water (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

She shows me pictures of all the good times they had. All we can do is give her the moral support and tell her to be strong."

Sixty-three people were injured in the pile-up that stretched along one mile of the elevated interstate, police have confirmed during their ongoing investigation.

The huge crash caused a section of the road to catch fire and destroyed a tanker truck carrying hazardous liquid, police said.

At least one vehicle went over the edge and lay sideways in the water below the intersection, as shown in pictures posted by the Louisiana State Police.

St John Sheriff Mike Tregre said that there was a total of 25 crashes, which involved three 18-wheel trucks, of which two went up in flames.

An eigth person was confirmed to have died by police (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

All vehicles have been cleared along the I-55, and debris is now being taken off the road along with diesel and other chemicals left on the surface, police reported.

They believe that parts of the bridge will require repairs, and a testing consultant may start bridge deck scans to see what parts of the concrete are damaged.

Police said on Wednesday that the I-55 will still remain closed in both directions from I-10 to Ponchatoula while crews finish inspecting the roadway.

The friends of Mr Negi have set up a GoFundMe to support his family and to raise money for his funeral, which will take place on 3 November.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden wasn't successful in unseating New Hampshire from the first-in-the-nation primary slot it has held for more than a century, but his campaigns announcement this week that he wont appear on the states 2024 primary ballot has nonetheless added a new wrinkle to the contest and created complications for his campaign, state election officials, and voters.

Although several key details about next years New Hampshire primary have yet to be determined, the event has begun to take shape.

When is the 2024 New Hampshire primary?

State law gives New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan exclusive authority to set the date for the 2024 primary, but he has yet to do so. For 40 years, it has been held the Tuesday following the Iowa caucuses, which are scheduled for Jan. 15. State law also says the primary must be held at least seven days before any similar contest. The South Carolina Democratic primary on Feb. 3 is the earliest contest on the Democratic National Committee's official calendar. The only Tuesday that fits within these parameters is Jan. 23.

Why wont Bidens name appear on the New Hampshire primary ballot?

The move is the latest development in a long-simmering dispute within the Democratic Party over which states and regions should have the first say in determining the partys presidential nominees every four years. Iowa and New Hampshire have traditionally kicked off the nomination process for both parties, but other states have challenged their prime placement in the calendar over the years. This has resulted in states leapfrogging one another and a steadily earlier start to the primary campaign season.

Biden, who placed fifth in New Hampshire in 2020, urged Democratic Party officials last year to rejigger the primary calendar with South Carolina in the lead-off position. His 29-point win in the 2020 South Carolina primary ended his string of embarrassing early-state losses that year and put his campaign on positive footing to win the nomination. The DNC adopted the presidents proposal and scheduled the South Carolina primary to lead the partys nomination process on Feb. 3, with New Hampshire and Nevada to follow on Feb. 6.

However, New Hampshire indicated its intent to maintain its first-in-the-nation primary status in violation of party rules and risk possible penalties from the DNC down the road. Rather than flout the rules he urged the national party to adopt, Biden chose to stay off the ballot in New Hampshire.

Will Biden still be a factor in the New Hampshire primary?

Bidens name will not appear as a printed option on the New Hampshire primary ballot. However, some state Democratic leaders have begun organizing a write-in effort on Biden's behalf. The move is not without precedent. President Lyndon Johnson won the New Hampshire primary in 1968 as a write-in candidate, although he dropped out of the race 19 days later.

State Democratic Party Chairman Raymond Buckley said in a social media post, The reality is that Joe Biden will win the (New Hampshire primary) in January, win renomination in Chicago and will be re-elected next November.

How will write-in votes be counted?

According to the secretary of state, local officials will process ballots with write-in votes on election night and tabulate them along with votes for other candidates. Under state law, they must post their results publicly and submit their tallies to the secretary of state by 8 a.m. the following morning. It's not clear whether these election night write-in totals will be broken down by individual candidates.

In elections across the country, it is rare for officials to provide vote totals for individual write-in candidates on election night. It is more common to release a cumulative total for all write-in candidates on election night and then provide a more detailed breakdown at a later date. That was the case in Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowskis successful write-in reelection campaign in Alaska in 2010. In that race, Murkowski received 99% of the write-in votes cast, but the final result wasnt known until more than two weeks after Election Day.

Scanlan said he will urge towns to enlist additional help to speed up the count, but he sounded optimistic about the process in comments to reporters on Tuesday.

It sounds like it would be a big job, but you have to remember, it is one race where it is vote for one, and its fairly easy to sort through the ballots, he said. I think it is a challenge that can be overcome.

In the 2020 New Hampshire Democratic primary, write-in votes comprised 2% of the total vote, or about 6,000 votes.

What happens to New Hampshires Democratic delegates?

Party rules dont bar a write-in candidate from winning delegates. Delegates are allocated proportionally based on the statewide vote and the vote in each of the states two congressional districts.

The larger question is whether, and how, the national party would punish New Hampshire Democrats for holding their primary earlier than allowed. One option would be to strip the state of all its delegate votes at next years national convention in Chicago. This would risk alienating the states most influential Democrats who would be critical in turning out supporters in a general election swing state. Another option would be seating all of New Hampshires delegates but giving them half or some fraction of a full vote on the convention floor. Or the national party could decide to do nothing.

In 2008, when Michigan and Florida held primaries earlier than allowed under party rules, the DNC opted to try all three. Initially, it said both states would be stripped of all their delegates. Then, after negotiations with the campaigns of then-Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, it announced that delegates from both states could each cast half a vote. Finally, shortly before the convention began, party officials voted to grant Michigan and Florida delegates full voting rights in the interest of party unity.

What will a Biden-less primary ballot look like?

The simplest path to get on the New Hampshire presidential primary ballot is to submit a Declaration of Candidacy and pay a $1,000 filing fee. The minimal filing requirements usually result in a crowded field. In the 2020 primary, there were 33 Democratic and 17 Republican candidates on the ballots. Voters may write the name of another candidate in the blank space marked WRITE-IN at the end of the list of candidates.

The candidate filing period ends Friday at 5 p.m. ET. As of Wednesday, 13 Democrats had submitted the necessary paperwork to appear on the ballot, including 2020 hopeful Marianne Williamson. Minnesota U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips has not filed but is widely expected to do so. Twenty-one Republicans filed, including all of the major candidates.

What vote coverage will the Associated Press provide on election night?

The AP will report vote totals in both the Democratic and Republican New Hampshire primaries. For Democrats, this will include any write-in vote totals and details by candidate that the New Hampshire Secretary of States office makes available. The AP does not make projections and will declare a winner only when its determined there is no scenario that would allow the trailing candidates to close the gap. A significant amount of write-in votes may slow the race-calling process if elections officials don't immediately provide a breakdown by candidate.



Associated Press writers Holly Ramer in Concord, New Hampshire, and Will Weissert in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report.
An Idaho judge has denied a motion filed by Bryan Kohbergers defence team to drop all charges against him.

The 28-year-old criminology PhD student who is accused of slaughtering four University of Idaho students at their Moscow home on 13 November returned to court for the crucial hearing on Thursday.

Earlier this year, Mr Kohbergers attorneys filed the motion to dismiss the murder charges against him, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

Judge John Judge said that while he appreciated the defences argument which he called creative, he quickly ruled that the grand jurys indictment would stand.

I appreciate the argument. I think its really creative and I appreciate the journey back through history, the Judge said.

The 28-year-old criminology PhD student is accused of slaughtering four University of Idaho students at their Moscow home on 13 November (AP)

I mean, what it comes down to for me is that I am constrained by what I believe is settled law in Idaho. I may be wrong, but this is certainly an issue that you would have to bring up with a higher court, like the Idaho Supreme Court, and I look forward to getting that.

Before denying the motion, the judge made a decision that was not expected today.

He announced that he would allow cameras in the courtroom for now, but added that he will take more control of them. He also asked people to have restraint and dignity when covering the case.

The families of two Idaho murders victims Kaylee Goncalves, 21, and Xana Kernodle, 20, previously called for cameras to document Mr Kohbergers trial, but both the defence and the prosecution have been against cameras in the courtroom.

On Thursday morning, the family posted on their Facebook page: Court today! Please pray that things are decided in our favor. I can barely breathe. We have been waiting for this day since Sept 20th.

A group of media outlets has also pushed back on the defences request motion, asking the judge to allow cameras to remain in the courtroom for his future hearings and the trial.

Ethan Chapin, 20, Madison Mogen, 21, Xana Kernodle, 20, and Kaylee Goncalves, 21, were killed on 13 November (Instagram)

Mr Kohberger was linked to the murders that rocked the town of Moscow through DNA evidence, cellphone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

His attorneys have previously tried to argue that the DNA may have been planted and that the state has not handed all the evidence for the defence to review.

At the hearing on Thursday, Mr Kohbergers defence argued the grand jury was given the wrong instructions  but Judge Judge said with a chuckle, that it is the same instruction given to grand juries for 100 years.

Attorney Jay Logsdon attempted to pick apart the precedent on what grand juries need for an indictment and that the standard of proof should include more than just probable cause, KXLY reporter Jordan Smith tweeted from the courtroom.

Mr Logsdon said he believes that the standard for an indictment should be elevated to beyond a reasonable doubt.

The prosecution then argued the grand jury indictment against Kohberger should not be thrown out, stating: There is nothing to see here. The Idaho Supreme Court has ruled on this issue.

Mr Kohberger, 28, is charged with four counts of murder and other charges in connection with the deaths of Ethan Chapin, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Kaylee Goncalves. He has denied any involvement.

Mr Kohbergers trial had been due to start on 2 October but has now been delayed indefinitely after he bruptly waived his right to a speedy trial.
Talbot Health Services debuts Donuts, Coffee and Care program

Beginning Monday, Talbot Health Services, 650 Park Avenue West in Mansfield, will provide open access for services to the community on Mondays from 9 to 11 a.m. The program is called Donuts, Coffee and Care.

The general public is invited to come to Talbot for a free donut, free cup of coffee and the opportunity to learn about the services that Talbot provides. The core focus of treatment centers around substance abuse disorders, anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief and trauma.

If a visitor decides to pursue treatment, they can be seen immediately that day without an appointment. The process includes an initial assessment by a licensed therapist, a needs assessment with a case manager, psychiatric appointments available within seven days, and follow-up case management or therapy appointment within three business days

There is no obligation to pursue services and take home information will be provided for those either considering treatment options or those who might refer someone in the future.

Call 567-200-4130 for further information.

Directions Credit Union celebrates 70 years

TOLEDO  This month Directions Credit Union celebrates 70 years of providing financial services to the community. The credit union opened in 1953. Today it serves more than 100,000 members, with 21 branch locations across Ohio and Southeast Michigan and it manages a collective asset worth more than $1 billion.

Directions offers members traditional checking and savings services, business and personal financing, savings options for major life events, college tuition, retirement and more. It is a nonprofit organization thats owned and operated by its members.

Sutton Bank announces Best Day Ever event

ATTICA  Sutton Bank, in partnership with Kasasa and the Dream Machine, are hosting Mansfields local Best Day Ever from 5 to 7 p.m. on Nov. 3 at the Buckeye Imagination Museums First Friday event, at 175 W. Third St.

Kasasa and Charlie Rockets Dream Machine Foundation have joined with community financial institutions across the country with the goal of performing 100,000 acts kindness for the Best Day Ever event, which kicks off Nov. 3 and continues throughout the weekend.

Sutton Banks local event is its contribution to the nationwide effort aimed at showcasing the significance of community banks.

University Hospitals expands access to in-home physical therapy services

CLEVELAND  University Hospitals has joined forces with Luna, the leading provider of in-home, in-person outpatient physical therapy, to expand access to services. The service will be available to all residents without a referral required to start.

The new collaboration, known as University Hospitals Physical Therapy At Home, will soon start taking appointments.

Unlike remote or virtual care, Lunas licensed physical therapists provide hands-on care in the convenience of the patients home, which can be requested via the Luna app. A licensed physical therapist is then scheduled to arrive at the patient's home for a 45-55 minute appointment and continues the in-person treatment at home for the duration of the care plan.

The University Hospitals Physical Therapy At Home service will be covered by most major insurances with the same co-pay cost as facility-based care.

Crawford-opoly returns for 2023

GALION  The Galion-Crestline Area Chambers of Commerce and Bucyrus have joined forces once again for Crawford-opoly  an interactive way to win gift cards while you shop local this holiday season.

Beginning Nov. 1, entry envelopes will be available at either the Galion-Crestline Area Chamber or Bucyrus Area Chamber offices.

To play Crawford-opoly, collect all of the property cards from a color section to be entered into a drawing to win gift cards from the businesses in that section. Collect at least 25 property cards (representing half the game board) in order to be entered into the grand prize drawing  a $1,000 community shopping spree, provided by First Federal Community Bank.

Entry envelopes will also be available at participating businesses, which will be shared on social media and posted on the GCACC website. Some of the participating businesses may require a purchase in order to receive a card, while others only require a visit.

Crawford-opoly, sponsored by the Bucyrus Area Chamber of Commerce and the Galion-Crestline Area Chamber of Commerce, runs through the month of November.

The deadline to submit property cards for the prize drawing is 4 p.m. on Nov. 30. Cards may be dropped off or mailed to either of the Crawford County Chamber offices. Prize winners will be drawn during the first week of December.

Email any questions to ceo@galion-crestlinechamber.org or call 419-468-7737.

Firelands Electric Co-op offers program for middle school students

NEW LONDON  Firelands Electric Cooperative wants to remind students to enter the upcoming drawing for The A Team, a program designed to recognize middle school students for their academic excellence. Submissions for the next drawing are due by 4 p.m. on Dec. 10.

Students in grades 6-8 living in a home receiving power from Firelands Electric Cooperative and who have a minimum of three A's on their most recent report card are eligible to apply. To enter, send a copy of the students report card to: Firelands Electric Co-op, Attn: The A Team, PO Box 32, New London, OH 44851. Report cards may also be e-mailed to members@firelandsec.com.

Be sure to include the students name, school, grade, address, phone number, parents name(s), and e-mail address.

All qualifying entries will be placed into a drawing to be held at the conclusion of each grading period. Drawings take place on Dec. 10, Feb. 10, April 10 and July 10. Three students from each grading period will be randomly selected to win an Amazon gift card. Winners will also have their photo published in an upcoming issue of Ohio Cooperative Living magazine, as well as be featured on the co-ops website and social media.

Complete guidelines are available at firelandsec.com/team. If you have any questions, contact Firelands Electrics Member Services Dept. at 1-800-533-8658 or members@firelandsec.com.

Mansfield News Journal

This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Talbot Health Services access, Directions Credit Union anniversary
Then the noises began: the sound of voices coming from a room that was empty; the sound of footsteps on the stairs when nobody was using them.

Zoiks! Be ready for ghost stories from Patrick Stewart in "Making It So: A Memoir," his USA TODAY bestseller released this month from Simon & Schuster. Yes, the British actor who played 24th-century explorer Jean-Luc Picard in "Star Trek" series "The Next Generation" and "Picard" shares his paranormal experiences, including recurring spirited moments that freaked him out of his Los Angeles home.

"I have been witnessing stuff since I was 12 years old," Stewart, 83, tells USA TODAY. "And it has stayed with me throughout my life. I have sometimes quite intense feelings and nighttime experiences and occasionally I witness things. It happens to me and I'm not inventing it. Why would I invent it? Because I always feel slightly foolish when I talk about this."

In the spirit of Halloween, here are Stewart's ghost encounters.

Patrick Stewart's memoir: How he lost his Picard wig and the show's ending he wished for

Patrick Stewart's first paranormal experience was as a kid in England

The spooky experiences started during his youth in Yorkshire, England, when Stewart would stay at the home of his influential first drama teacher, Ruth Wynn Owen (to whom his memoir is dedicated). Two striking paintings featuring 17th-century women in the home appeared to young Stewart to be covered in an "unexplainable mist," he writes, especially the guest room painting, which put off a "spooky glow" in the dark hours.

"This scared me, fundamentally," Stewart writes, saying he developed a routine of turning off the lights and diving under the covers to avoid any specter. "There I stayed until morning."

Stewart eventually told Wynn Owen, who explained that spirits had followed her family into the house. A girl often appeared at night and always smiled before disappearing Wynn Owen told him, impressed that Stewart was one of the few who noticed the otherworldly paintings.

"She was curious to know if I had experienced other phenomena of this nature, but I hadnt ... yet," Stewart writes.

Patrick Stewart has written "Making It So: A Memoir."

The Royal Shakespeare Company actor's beloved and hardworking mother, Gladys, died in 1977 at age 76. Stewart had alone time before the funeral with his mother in an open casket.

"Just before my eyes fixed on her face, I heard her say, 'Oh, hello, Patrick, love,'" Stewart writes. "I know I heard it. I did not imagine it."

Stewart "kissed her on her cheek, told her I loved her and bid Mam farewell."

Stewart's Los Angeles home was so haunted, he bolted to a modern dwelling

While Stewart's childhood paranormal paintings experience caused "more distress than wonder," the mysterious moments got stranger for the Los Angeles-based "TNG" star. After his second season as Picard, Stewart bought a home in Los Angeles' Silver Lake neighborhood where "weird things started happening," he writes.

Returning home from work on the Paramount lot one evening, his nostrils were overpowered by a roasting smell. After a swift kitchen investigation, "the stove was not even turned on, and the oven was cold and empty," he writes. This got worse.

Stewart's son Daniel, who resided in England, was "freaked out" by a stranger occurrence that stopped him from ever staying overnight again at his father's residence.

"When I asked him what was wrong, he led me down into the living room, where the floor was scattered with books that had obviously come from the shelves lining the wall," Stewart writes. "Dan told me he had been watching TV when the books suddenly flew across the room, as if thrown with great force. The incident scared him so badly that he left the house and returned only when he knew I would soon be home."

That's when the sinister sounds really started. Voices, footsteps on empty stairs not to mention temperatures dropping to icy levels each night as Stewart neared the same stair step. "I had an urge to look over my shoulder, but I never dared," he writes.

Stewart rented his haunted home and things turned weirder

5/10/14 3:07:49 PM -- Patrick Stewart in a 2014 portrait for USA TODAY. Stewart discusses his paranormal experiences in "Making It So: A Memoir."

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Stewart eventually rented out his Silver Lake home and moved to a "modern" Beverly Hills abode. "I moved out like a shot and immediately felt much safer in my new home," Stewart writes.

A few months later, the mother of the tenant family called with washer-dryer problems. After the pleasant chat, she said, By the way, you never told us about the other things that came with this house.

Guilty as Macbeth, Stewart fessed up about his paranormal experiences. The tenant said her daughter had seen more, including a shadowy male figure standing in the hall at the foot of those stairs. Stewart was impressed with the family's courage  and relieved he wasn't losing his mind.

"In a way that was a comfort that their family saw things," Stewart says. "And they saw more than I saw."

In his final call to the renter, the woman said she sorted the pesky poltergeist problem. Awoken from a nap by the chronic disembodied voices, she unleashed her fury, walking to the stairs and screaming for the spirits to "leave us in peace," with a key added expletive. The disturbances stopped right then.

The verbal ghostbusting was so effective that Stewart did not feel the need to disclose his paranormal incidents to prospective buyers when he put the house on the market  even though he believed that warning was required by California law. (Turns out, it's not. Only deaths on property within a certain time period must be disclosed).

"To my relief, I never heard anything from my buyers afterward," Stewart says.

Stewart did, however, unexpectedly run into the couple who had sold him the haunted house without warning.

"When I went over to greet them, they were clearly uncomfortable and beat a retreat from me almost immediately," Stewart writes. "I got the distinct impression that they had something to hide."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Patrick Stewart's ghosts: Actor reveals haunted Los Angeles house
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Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Horizon cruise ship is shown docked at PortMiami, Friday, April 9, 2021, in Miami.

A Carnival Cruise Line passenger is suing the lines parent company after his finger was severed when his cabins balcony door slammed shut.

William Tuttle was injured after the door unexpectedly closed with substantial force as he reentered his stateroom from the balcony, hitting his right index finger, according to the Oct. 11 suit filed in federal court in Florida. Tuttle, who lives in Georgia, was sailing on the lines Carnival Horizon ship when the incident occurred in September 2022, the complaint said.

The suit alleged the line allowed Tuttle to enter the cabin when it knew or should have known that the subject cabin balcony door was malfunctioning and the calibration of the regulator of the door and/or the closing mechanism was not properly adjusted resulting in an unreasonably dangerous condition.

As a result, he faced severe injuries that caused pain and suffering, amputation, disability, loss of independence and other repercussions. The suit accused Carnival of negligent failure to maintain and negligent design.

He is seeking a jury trial and damages exceeding $75,000 exclusive of interest, costs and attorneys fees.

There is an industry-wide issue among the cruise industry, where passengers are inadequately warned about the significant force with which cabin and balcony doors can unexpectedly close, Robert L. Gardana, an attorney for Tuttle, told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. The warnings provided, if any, are insufficient to appraise passengers of the true extent of the danger posed by these doors closing forcefully.

Carnival Corp. declined to comment, citing the companys official position that it does not comment on pending litigation.

John H. (Jack) Hickey, a maritime trial attorney in Miami, said that under maritime law, the burden is on the plaintiff to show a cruise line was on notice of the dangerous condition. That could take the form of prior complaints from passengers, comments from crew members in safety meetings or previous incidents (the complaint cites 11 similar cases among Carnival passengers).

Cruise ship medical facilities: What happens if you get sick or injured (or bitten by a monkey)

Cruise lines are typically intimately involved in the design and construction of their ships, Hickey said, and large passenger vessels like Horizon have workers on board full-time to do maintenance. Still, his firm has had numerous cases involving those kinds of doors over the years.

These balcony doors are a chronic problem, he said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Carnival cruise passenger sues after balcony door severs finger
Canadian discount airline Porter Airlines will land for the first time in Florida next week, kicking off eventual flight service to five cities in the Sunshine state, including Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Touting itself as offering passengers an elevated economy experience, Porter runs counter to the airline industry in that with the price of airfares comes beer, wine, Wi-Fi and snacks  and theres none of the sometimes dreaded middle seats in the cabin.

The first flight, a nonstop departure from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Tampa International Airport, will leave on Nov. 1. The next day, daily service between those two cities will start, Brad Cicero, a Porter spokesman, said in an interview.

Then Porter will add more daily routes: Southwest Florida International Airport in Fort Myers to Toronto on Nov. 11, Orlando International Airport to Ottawa on Nov. 21, and Orlando to Toronto on Nov. 22.

After that, South Florida airports will start seeing Porter airplanes flying daily nonstop direct flights between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Ottawa beginning Nov. 30 and Fort Lauderdale and Toronto starting Dec. 1. Finally, beginning Dec. 13, Porter will take off with daily flights from Miami International Airport to Toronto and back.

Florida is a really important market for Canadians, Cicero said. We believe the demand is there.

In 2022, Canada was Miami-Dade Countys third-largest foreign source of overnight visitors, according to a report this spring by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, trailing only Colombia and Brazil.

While a low-cost airline, Porter hopes to stand out in Florida where there are plenty of airline options  for its frills. Wine and beer at no extra cost served to passengers in a glass is an example. Other airlines typically charge passengers for alcoholic beverages. For a higher fare, meals, extra legroom, and pre-mixed cocktails are available.

All of Porters flights between Florida and Canada will be on 132-seat Embraer E195-E2 planes with cabins designed as an all-economy class with a two seat-by-two seat configuration. That means no middle seats on each flight.

Porters service to Florida also will mark Porters first commercial use of these planes in the United States, said Valtecio Alencar, an Embraer spokesman. The jets are assembled in Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil.

The Canadian discount airlines pending debut at Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports comes as these airports gain passenger volumes and new or expanded service by domestic and foreign airlines. For example, American Airlines, the largest airline in the world and biggest by market share at Miami airport, and Atlanta-based Delta Air Lines, among many others, are adding routes and flights.

Earlier this month, Fort Lauderdale airport started construction of a $404 million fifth airline terminal. It will cover 230,000 square feet and should be finished in 2026 to handle 4 to 5 million more passengers. Through August of this year, 23.7 million passengers have gone through the airport.

Meanwhile, Mexican discount airline Viva Aerobus said recently it will start flying three flights a week  Monday, Wednesday, and Friday  from Miami airport to Monterrey starting on July 1, 2024. One day later, it will start four weekly flights  Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday  between Miami and Merida. The airline will fly planes with room for 186 and 240 passengers.

Barcelona-based airline LEVEL said recently it would begin three weekly flights between Barcelona and Miami on March 31, 2024. German low-cost airline Condor Airlines announced it would start flying three times a week next May between Miami airport and Frankfurt.

Porter, which started operating in 2006, and began flying to Washington, D.C., Boston, Chicago, and Newark in 2008  albeit with airplanes that couldnt fly as long as the Embraer E195-E2s  expects to serve one or two alcoholic drinks per flight to an individual passenger, Cicero said. But if a passenger wants more drinks, he or she can ask and will receive them.

The Porter official cautioned that, people have to drink responsibly.
BOSTON - Months into the state of emergency declared in August by Gov. Maura Healey, the influx of migrants into Massachusetts has yet to slow, the states emergency shelter system is at capacity and legislators are being asked to kick in another $250 million to fund it.

Even as the Healey/Driscoll administration scrambles to put together a coordinated, coherent and centralized response, local legislators are shaking their heads.

Gov. Maura Healey introduces her new emergency assistance director, retired Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice, who has served in the U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard. He is expected to coordinate the state's response to the diminished capacity at emergency shelters throughout Massachusetts and the delayed response to the crisis by the federal government.

Confusing was one legislators take on the situation. A lack of a sense of urgency was anothers response.

There is no clear-cut communication from the administration, said Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton. That lack of communication between the administration, legislators and municipal officials was apparent in the governors recent appointment of former Mass. National Guard Commander Lt. Gen. L. Scott Rice to direct the states response.

Lack of communication, advanced notice at issue

Many legislators were very surprised that there was no advance notice of the potential changes in policy, Eldridge said. The progressive legislator said he would be willing to approve the governors request for the $250 million if there were improvements to the flow of information and some indication as to just how many migrants will be directed to Massachusetts. He may be one of the only ones.

House Speaker Ronald Mariano, D-Quincy, has said repeatedly that the lack of a framework and the mystery surrounding the number of migrants Massachusetts can expect to accommodate in the coming months has stayed the votes of the Legislature.

Massachusetts state leadership discuss the migrant crisis Monday. Gov. Maura Healey, Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Ashland, and House Speaker Ronald Mariano, D-Quincy, are waiting for federal help.

While the Biden administration has pledged $1.4 billion to support the states that are hosting migrants, Mariano was quick to point out, somewhat dryly, that the possibility of receiving funds from Washington anytime soon is slim.

If were expecting funding to come out of Washington now, its time to go buy a bridge in New York City, Mariano said. He was referencing the chaos surrounding the election of a new Speaker of the House of Representatives, which was finally accomplished Wednesday.

Eldridge said he has seen more coherence in the Healey/Driscoll administrations plans recently, referencing the decision to call up the National Guard, to centralize planning and to appoint a coordinator to oversee the states response. The Guard will serve as liaison to those shelters where service providers are few in number or totally lacking.

We need to create a command center, establish clear protocols for decision making and keep cities and towns in the loop, Eldridge said.

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge

His is one of the districts in Central Massachusetts where many of the incoming families are housed. The commonwealth is sheltering some 7,500 families, roughly 24,000 people across the state. The state has spent $45 million a month since August on the emergency shelter system, according to the administrations figures.

Amendment to shelter law suggested

In Southborough, the town stepped up, but there was no communication from the state that the migrants would be housed there until the day after they were settled in, Eldridge said.

The senator and two colleagues, Robyn Kennedy, D-Worcester, and Michael Moore, D-Millbury, sent the governor a letter in August pledging their support and making a few suggestions. The letter also praised the governors decision not to repeal or amend the states right-to-shelter law.

Some legislators have suggested the law be amended to limit that right to residents with legal standing in the United States who have been in Massachusetts for at least three years.

That suggestion was made by Rep. Peter Durant, R-Spencer.

Rep. Peter Durant, R-Spencer

I am pleased that this legislation now has growing bipartisan support, Durant said. My legislation is a commonsense approach that will help end Massachusetts reputation as a magnet state while keeping the program in place for those who really need that assistance and ensure that our tax dollars that fund the program are used to help our own residents.

Also critical of the administration is Rep. Joseph McKenna, R-Webster, who took the governor to task for the utter lack of cooperation and communication with the local communities being called upon to house these migrant families.

McKenna also criticized the administrations past practice of dropping (families) off across the commonwealth with no notice to the host municipality, and certainly with no state resources or support. It was a full month after the migrants arrived in Sutton before the administration even provided a regional liaison contact to legislators. Towns were and still are on their own.

The Republican legislator did note that the crisis was not of the administrations making or choosing, but also pointed out that under the Baker/Polito administration the emergency shelter system was at less than half of the numbers currently being housed.

I am certainly in support of bills that have been filed to modify and update our right-to-shelter law, I believe the only one in the country, McKenna said. It is necessary that we ensure that those who are in need of assistance and who are legal residents of the commonwealth are not passed over by those who have come illegally in the past six months.

Complicated issue needs federal response

Rep. Kate Donaghue, D-Westborough, echoed the governor in describing the situation as one that must be resolved by the federal government. Its a complicated situation, one that needs a federal response, Donaghue said.

Healey has repeatedly called on the Biden administration for answers and has recruited the states federal delegation to push for more support, from more funding to expediting working papers for the migrants who have already been vetted by the federal government. She noted that once family members can start working, they can move out of the shelters.

As a stopgap measure while the state waits for the federal government to issue working papers, Healey has established two programs. The state has partnered with agencies to assess the job skills of the migrant and match them with jobs. A second program will offer job training.

Sen. Robyn Kennedy, D-Worcester

Last month, the Biden administration sent a team of observers to Massachusetts to assess the situation in the Bay State, and Healey is hoping there will be some relief from their findings. She is asking the government to open a federal shelter in Massachusetts to alleviate the strain on the states system. Massachusetts is using hotels and motels, vacant state dwellings and even dorms and common rooms on public colleges and universities to accommodate people.

This is a difficult situation, I have made an effort to be clear with the public, the state has reached its limit in terms of capacity in structures, personnel and funding, Healey said Monday. Massachusetts has done its job; we need federal help.

Rep. Jon Zlotnik, D-Gardner, is reluctant to approve more funding to ameliorate the situation.

Rep. Jon Zlotnik, D-Gardner

I think the Legislature should not appropriate more funds until A) a complete picture of what is going to be needed is presented, B) there is a plan for those already in the shelter system, C) there is a plan going forward, Zlotnik said in a prepared statement. He noted the emergency shelter system has been problematic for years, indicating the issues started with the Baker/Polito administration.

I think it certainly needs a review with an eye towards sustainability and predictability, Zlotnik said. While he is not against changes to the right-to-shelter law, he said the bill as written fails to specify how residency would be established. I think that is the crucial factor if we were to pursue that avenue. The main thing is the governor needs to put forward a comprehensive plan to address the situation.

The trio of Central Massachusetts senators recommended the administration identify all state lands and buildings for use as impromptu shelters while also expediting the development of much-needed housing. The administration could call housing developers and rental property owners to identify vacancies that could be used by families through the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program.

Theres no place to live in Massachusetts, Eldridge said.

Different communities face different housing issues. Suburban central and rural Massachusetts have aging populations that cannot afford to downsize, and more urban areas lack housing that low-income wage earners can afford. Year-round residents of summer communities are being edged out of their rentals by homeowners who are opting to live and work remotely. Short-term rentals in those resort communities price out the workers needed to service them.

Build affordable housing

Eldridge urged the governor to use the remaining American Rescue Plan Act funds, some $300 million, to kick-start the construction of housing in the state.

There is a view by some colleagues that if we just produce more housing, somehow, it will create affordable housing, Eldridge said.

However, while some believe the market forces will drive prices downward, Massachusetts residents are not so confident. Recent polls show overwhelming support for the return of rent control and not just in urban centers, for real estate transfer taxes upon sale of million-dollar properties, and other ways to tackle the high cost of housing, including changes to zoning laws and even the possibility of installing accessory dwelling units, tiny houses placed on land already occupied by a single-family home.

Eldridge was reluctant to assign a grade to the governor and her administration. However, he has felt a lack of urgency on the migrant crisis and multiple other issues facing the Bay State.

His colleague, McKenna in the House, summed it up well: We have heard for years that there is a housing crisis, and that there is a workforce crisis in nearly every segment, and that there is a wage crisis in the service industries with salary reimbursement rates for direct care and early childhood service providers lagging, and that there is an opioid crisis with overdoses and deaths still at unacceptable rates. These are all crises that have been deferred for lack of funding and resources for years. It is not acceptable that these issues continue to be kicked down the road to cater to illegal immigrants who come to our state because of the generous shelter and benefit systems in place.

He was not reluctant to grade the governor. I think that the Healey administration has done a terrible job of managing this crisis, McKenna said.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Federal solution called for: but Massachusetts needs to get creative
The American flag is flown next to the Chinese national emblem.

The United States is hoping that China can help prevent the spread of two ongoing conflicts in both the Middle East and eastern Europe as China's top diplomat arrives in the U.S. for a week of high-level talks.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit Washington, D.C., this week to meet with top Biden administration officials and possibly the president as well. Over three days of meetings that begin Thursday, the visit is expected to lay the groundwork for a summit between President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping next month.

SEE MORE: The evolution and future of the US-China relationship

In addition to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, topics are expected to also include the war between Russia and Ukraine, tensions over Taiwan, and climate change. American leaders have voiced disappointment in China over its support for Russia and its relative silence on the conflict in the Middle East. The world's two economic superpowers are also at odds over issues like human rights, renewable energy, the South China Sea, and North Korea's nuclear arms.

SEE MORE: China calls Biden comments about leader Xi 'absurd and irresponsible'

Nonetheless, both sides have expressed willingness to cooperate following visits to China in recent months by Secretary of State Antony Blinkin, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry, and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

China said Wang will have an "in-depth exchanges of views" with U.S. leaders this week on a wide range of issues ahead of the potential Biden-Xi meeting. The last time the Chinese president visited the U.S. was in 2017, when former President Donald Trump welcomed him at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida to press him on U.S-China trade relations.
A hard-fought race for a county legislature seat in northern Westchester has become a battle over second homes.

Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi, D-Yorktown, is questioning whether his challenger, Somers Republican Dan Branda, qualifies for the ballot because he rents a second home in Putnam County, where his family, including his disabled wife and children, reside.

County legislature candidate Dan Branda plays with his his dog Phil outside his Somers home Oct. 19, 2023.

While Gashis attempt to disqualify Branda from the ballot was dismissed in both state Supreme Court and at the Appellate Division of state Supreme Court in Brooklyn earlier this year, the two-term incumbent has continued to question Brandas residency in the final weeks of the fall campaign.

Branda, meanwhile, insists that Gashi has abused New York City affordable housing regulations by no longer residing in an affordable co-operative apartment on the Upper West Side that he was able to purchase in 2015 by attesting that it would be his primary residence. Its now part of Gashi's real-estate investment portfolio.

Westchester County Legislator Vedat Gashi, D-Yorktown, attended the Gather Against Hate rally in White Plains on June 15, 2022.

An inquiry into Gashi's ownership of the unit, which a spokesman for New York City's Department of Housing Preservation announced would occur seven weeks ago, has yet to be launched, according to HPD spokesman William Fowler.

District 4 comprises New Castle and parts of Yorktown, Somers and Ossining.

Despite his two losses in state court, Gashi wants voters to know that Branda had been registered to vote in Cold Spring for a year before switching his registration back to Somers in February, in time to circulate petitions for the race this winter.

The residents of this community deserve truth and transparency, said Gashi in a press release. Dan by his own admission lived in Putnam and literally three days before becoming a Westchester candidate, he out of the blue changed his voter registration to Westchester.

More: NYC probes Westchester county legislator's affordable co-op used as investment property

Branda said his decision to sign a two-year lease at a downtown Cold Spring apartment in 2022 came as his wife dealt with a debilitating disease that limited her mobility and made her unable to drive the family car. At the time, their eldest child was attending a private school in Saugerties. So moving to Cold Spring cut Branda's driving time almost in half.

It also provided a walkable community for his wife and their three young children.

Their residence in Somers

Meanwhile, the Brandas maintained their residence on 10 Brianna Lane in Somers, which is owned by the James Branda Irrevocable Trust, which was created by Brandas father-in-law, James Mills, for the Branda family.

When she needs extra help for the kids, she comes here, said Branda from his Somers kitchen.

Branda testified in state court that his drivers license and voter registration are in Somers, as is the upstairs office of his digital marketing business, plus bedrooms for he and his wife and three children. It's also home to his Great Dane named Phil. His mail comes to Somers as well.

Branda explained his living situation in state Supreme Court.

"I went on the stand to defend myself, Branda said. The judge found me credible and believable.

More: Frustrated taxpayers await IRS staffing boost as calls for assistance go unanswered

He said New York state law allows candidates to have multiple residences, with a candidate required to register at what they claim to be their primary residence and the place they intend to return to.

You can have two different residences  like the people who have apartments in Manhattan, he said.

Branda's past registration in Putnam

Branda said he registered to vote in Putnam County in 2022 to provide his children with the experience of walking to the polling place in Cold Spring to see their parents cast their ballots.

County legislature candidate Dan Branda talks about his home situation while in the kitchen of his Somers home with his dog Phil Oct. 19, 2023.

My eldest is incredibly interested in politics, so we try to do what we can to encourage it, said Branda. My wife even took her to pro-woman rallies after Donald Trump was elected.

Sign up for Wilson's weekly newsletter for insights into his Tax Watch columns.

David McKay Wilson writes about tax issues and government accountability.Follow him on Twitter @davidmckay415 or email himat dwilson3@lohud.com.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Westchester legislative race: Gashi vs Branda battle over second homes
Fear the deer.

No not Giannis or Dame, but an actual buck that came crashing through a window at Noodles & Company in Beloit on Tuesday.

The deer made his appearance during the lunchtime rush, causing diners to rush for safety. The incident was captured on surveillance footage.

No one was harmed in the incident and the deer explored the kitchen before exiting out a back door opened by an employee, according to Noodles' spokesperson Danielle Moore.

"Our team members' priority throughout the process was to make sure the deer made it outside of the restaurant safely and that no one was harmed during the encounter," Moore said.

A group of students on a field trip were in the restaurant during the encounter, according to Moore. "We are thankful that a teacher was onsite," she said.

The restaurant was temporarily closed, but reopened on Wednesday with a new special  a "2 Buck Mac & Cheese" for just $2.

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: Deer crashes through window of Noodles & Company in Beloit, Wisconsin
The three candidates for mayor of Wooster  Republican Bob Reynolds, Mary Reans (no party listed) and write-in candidate Greg Gehris  recognize the issues facing the city and propose different approaches to addressing them.

Each candidate tackled the topics of managing growth, handling the housing crisis and interfacing with the school system in charting a course for the future of the city.

Reynolds, an attorney, highlighted two areas of concern  preserving and enhancing Wooster's traditional strengths, while at the same time improving housing stock.

Two facets of the housing issue are replacing aging housing in older areas of the city and developing new housing, Reynolds said.

Bob Reynolds

New development is occurring in the Oak Hill area, he said, but shared concern about the condition of older developments.

"Some neighborhoods are doing fine on their own."

Other neighborhoods aren't faring as well, he said, citing areas where homes are being torn down, but not replaced. Determining a specific figure for affordable housing is difficult, he said.

Housing considerations: The cost and the buying capacity

"I don't know that there is a price range," he said. "There are two components  the cost, and the buying capacity of the buyer looking for housing. People tend to focus on the first part."

As for subsidizing costs for builders or developers, Reynolds said, "I'm not big on either of those things."

Reynolds would instead focus on ways to boost income, which he said is not just a matter of trying to increase jobs, but rather attract well-paying jobs.

Tech jobs typically pay better, as do health care professions.

Acknowledging a housing shortage, he said, "I don't think it's as severe as it was," adding, it's a statewide and national shortage, not just a local one.

Solutions might include carving out multi-family homes  not necessarily subsidized or low income housing  but duplexes, triplexes and townhouses in certain areas where they "won't disturb the aesthetics of the neighborhood."

Tax incentives are available, said Reynolds, who is "not looking to repeal them, but possibly tweak them."

The plans of the school district are a big issue for the community, according to Reynolds, affirming, "Wooster City Schools is right to be focusing on what the facility plan should look like in the next 25 years.

"Doing nothing would be a big mistake for the community."

However, he said, decisions impacting the district "should be left up to the school system."

Reynolds is interested in managed growth in Wooster, noting, for instance, there is no need to add 500 houses on the north end of town.

He is "not looking at how far, how fast we can grow." However, what parameters should be set "would be hard to say. Folks 100 years ago never thought they needed to go beyond Highland Avenue.

"Growth in and of itself is not necessarily a good thing," he said. "It's got to be strategic and enhanced."

Mary Reans

Reans addresses affordable housing, homelessness

Reans as well is focused on affordable housing and homelessness. For Reans, whose experience includes customer service and director of a medical day care center, affordable housing would be priced at $150,00 or less.

Dealing with the housing issue will take a "multi-tiered plan," Reans said, "not one and done. Buying old homes and fixing them up is part of it," she said, pointing out the city's large corporations could offer assistance.

"It's time to change the narrative," she said, recognizing as well her need to be well-versed about the city's budget and to gain the support of "critical groups from the community."

Reans pointed out problematic areas of Wooster, including Henry Street, describing it as "a mess"  sidewalks "and the whole bailiwick. Something has to give."

One of her suggestions for making positive changes in Wooster is getting more people involved in the Meals on Wheels program "so they can see how (the) people live."

In assisting the underserved population, "police need to engage in the community. The police need to be their friend."

Reans additionally recommended more inspections of apartments and combatting drug issues.

She supports neighborhood schools, opposes religious education that takes students out of class during the school day and promotes being "diligently aware of meetings of the board (of education)."

Should she become mayor, she said, "2e will stay focused on the issues."

Greg Gehris

Income taxes, and College of Wooster interest candidate

Gehris is running on a platform of fairness and justice.

"I don't find the town to be either," he said.

Gehris, who describes his occupation as a civil/social/political advocate for the poor and marginalized, said one of the most important issues facing the city is "to do anything possible to avoid increasing income tax.'"

He suggested The College of Wooster should follow the example of Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, which although tax-exempt, makes voluntary contributions to the city, benefiting it in all areas, including city services and K-12 education. An article provided by Gehris stated the university will contribute an estimated $175 million in direct payments to the city of Providence over 20 years.

Gehris would assess College of Wooster property and say, "This is what you'd have to pay, if you had to pay."

COW could be "the goose that laid the golden egg," according to him, providing a massive stream of money voluntarily in lieu of property taxes. His opinion is the action would prevent another income tax increase in Wooster.

Gehris would also repeal the last income tax increase of 0.5%, calling it "devastating" to families and contributing to mental health issues in their children.

Gehris would encourage businesses citywide to register with the Ohio Department of Taxation. On his Facebook candidate page, Gehris said the purpose would be the collection of municipal net-income taxes, "preventing any excess tax collected from theft" and saving the taxpayer millions.

Gehris additionally cited conflict of interest in determining where grant money goes, claiming earmarked money, particularly for low-income housing, goes into the general fund "where it disappears."

Gehris said tax abatement should be avoided.

"They're not a good idea and have never been proven to help communities directly. They are rife with bribery and conflict of interest," he said.

He opposes further gentrification of the city and continued marginalization of a vulnerable part of the population.

"We're doing too much on one end and not the other," he said.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Record: Election 2023: Wooster mayor candidates focus on housing, growth
Warning: This story contains spoilers for "The Fall of the House of Usher."

Michael Flanagans chilling new series The Fall of the House of Usher is an homage to Edgar Allan Poe, from the reference in the title and on.

A poet at first, Poe began publishing short horror stories in the early 1830s, with standouts like The Tell-Tale Heart, Masque of the Red Death, The Black Cat, The Pit and the Pendulum, The Gold-Bug and The Murders in the Rue Morgue.

The Flanagan show mines Poe's canon, from deep cuts to English curricula staples, to inform plot points, character names, episode titles and more.

Read on for the Edgar Allan Poe Easter eggs you might have missed in The Fall of the House of Usher.

What is Poes The Fall of the House of Usher about?

Poe's story The Fall of the House of Usher provides the TV show with its narrative structure.

In both, a sick Roderick Usher tells his story to another person. Flanagan recasts Poe's unnamed narrator as investigator Auguste Auggie Dupin. From there, the narrator comes to learn about the Usher family's secrets and Roderick's relationship with his twin sister Madeline.

The dark, dull house that winds up at the center of the miniseries immediately resembles that of the one Poe describes in his story. As to how the Ushers came to live in that home? Though Poe keeps it vague, Flanagan provides backstory (lots).

The major resemblance to the short story doesn't truly become clear until the end of the show, however.

In Poe's work, Roderick's twin sister Madeline has an unexplained disease that causes her limbs to stop working. Roderick buries his sister under the home  without the help of the narrator.

The show has a twist. Madeline's limbs stop working because Roderick poisons her drink, then buries her (and replaces her eyes with blue gemstones, modeled after an Egyptian royal burial tradition).

Just as Roderick and his guest realize Madeline was buried alive, she bursts in to the room. Madeline kills her brother with her last breath in both works  through strangulation on the television show and through fear in Poe's story.

Similar to Poe's work, Auggie runs out into the street as the House of Usher finally collapses.

Poe references in each episode

A Midnight Dreary

The first and last episodes titles refer to one of Poes most famous literary works, The Raven.

Roderick and Madelines mother, Eliza, shares the same name as Poes biological mother and the middle name of his cousin, Virginia Eliza Clemm Poe, who he married.

Elizas cruel boss, Mr. Longfellow, was likely named after Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a poet whom Poe showed overt disdain and, at one point, accused of plagiarism.

In the opening episode, the two children accidentally bury their mother alive, a theme in Poes works. Eliza escapes her grave, however, and strangles her boss to death  a murder similar to the ending of Poes The Fall of the House of Usher, and the show itself.

The Masque of the Red Death

The second episode borrows from Poe's 1842 story "Masque of the Red Death."

In that story, Prince Prospero  described as happy and dauntless, and sagacious  ignores the people around him dying of a mysterious illness called the Red Death. Prince Prospero is similar to Rodericks son Prospero Usher in the show, who is more interested in sustaining his lavish lifestyle than grappling with how it was earned.

Both Prosperos throw a doomed party. Poe's Prospero has a masquerade in a massive abbey, where guests can escape from the plague outside. They walk though seven color-coded rooms (symbolizing stages of life), but are too afraid to enter the eerie last room. A skeletal figure arrives, beckoning Prospero and eventually the other guests to that room, where they contract the Red Death.

Sauriyan Sapkota as Prospero Usher

Flanagan's version has a mysterious red room. There, a masked and cloaked Verna, similar to the figure in the short story, seduces Prospero. She offers him an escape from of his doomed path, which he doesn't take.

Both stories end in his death. In Flanagan's show, it's not by Red Death, but by a sprinkler filled with acid. Themes of indifference and arrogance ultimately cost Propsero his life.

Murder in the Rue Morgue

The series third episode was inspired by Poes 1841 release Murder in the Rue Morgue.

The 1841 original was notably the first modern detective story, according to the Poe museum, with leading man C. Auguste Dupin later serving as the inspiration for Sherlock Holmes.

As in the show, C. Auguste is an investigator, but the short story follows his research into the violent murders of Madame LEspanaye and her daughter Camille. C. Auguste finds that the murders were caused by something non-human  an escaped orangutan who scaled their Rue Street home and killed them.

In Flanagan's short story, Roderick's daughter  named Camille L'Espanaye  is killed by a chimpanzee.

The Black Cat

Both the short story and the episode The Black Cat follow the main characters descent into madness, though initially appearing sane  a theme found in other Poe works, such as The Tell-Tale Heart.

In the show, Napoleon Usher blacks out one night and suspects he stabbed his partner's cat, Pluto, to death. This is similar to Poe's version, when the main character's excessive drinking leads him to kill his wife's cat. In both stories, he adopts a similar looking cat to make up for his guilt.

The new cat begins to torture both main characters. The narrator in Poes story attempts to kill the look-alike, but ends up murdering his wife with an axe when she gets in the way instead. He then hides her body in the damp walls of his home. After the cat lets out a meow from within the walls, police discover her corpse ... and the cat sitting on her head.

Flanagans House of Usher pays homage to that spooky final image by showing Verna seemingly dead and trapped in the walls with the cat sitting atop her head.

Rahul Kohli as Napoleon Usher in

Because Poe used an unnamed narrator in the horrific tale, the Usher sons name was likely inspired by another work, The Spectacles, where the main characters name was originally Napoleon Bonaparte Froissart.

The Tell-Tale Heart

Both the fifth episode of the series and the short story feature a main character driven mad by guilt.

In Poes 1843 The Tell-Tale Heart, a narrator is so deeply bothered by an old mans pale blue, vulture-like eyes that he kills him and hides his remains in the floorboards. From then on, he hears the sound of a heartbeat emanating from the burial site. He finally confesses.

Victorine Usher, Roderick's daughter, accidentally kills her partner Alessandra following a fight about their medical device. She, too, is haunted by a clicking noise. Soon, we see what it is: Alessandra's corpse, propped up, with the medical device wrapped around her heart.

Notably, the center of the medical device resembles that of a vulture-like eye in Poes original work.

Unlike the story, Victorine ends up driving herself mad to the point of stabbing herself to death. In both versions, however, it could be said their descent into madness ultimately led to their demise.

Poes The Tell-Tale Heart also uses an unnamed narrator, but the Usher daughters name could have been inspired by Victorine Lafourcade of the writers 1844 story, The Premature Burial. This story is focused on being buried alive and later rescued.

Goldbug

Poes The Gold-Bug is focused around William Legrand, who could have inspired Flanagans character Tamerlanes wife, Billy.

After William loses his family's fortune, he's bitten by a golden beetle, which leads to his discovery of a secret message and hidden pirate treasure.

The show's sixth episode doesn't take on the same plot line, but seems to follow some of Poe's poem "Tamerlane," the namesake of the second eldest Usher child. The poem tells of a conqueror's deathbed confession, where he admits to prioritizing power over love. Similarly, in the show, Tamerlane chooses her lifestyle brand Goldbug over her husband.

Samantha Sloyan as Tamerlane in

The Pit and The Pendulum

Poe's "The Pit and The Pendulum" ends on a hopeful note. The show, one should note, does not.

In Poe's version, a prisoner during the Spanish Inquisition narrowly escapes death. But Frederick Usher isn't so lucky; he's killed by a pendulum.

The narrator in Poes The Pit and The Pendulum doesnt have a name, but the eldest Usher child was likely inspired by Frederick von Metzengerstein in the writers 1843 work, Metzengerstein.

The Raven

The Raven is a character in the Netflix show. Verna is present at all the characters deaths, and her name is an anagram for raven. She is a harbinger of death.

She isnt human. You could say she is the executor of fate or karma, Carla Gugino told Netflix of her character.

Poes poem The Raven tells the tale of a man dealing with the grief of lost love Lenore.

The mans thoughts are interrupted by a raven at his window. The raven has one word to say: Nevermore. The word implies that nothing will change for our narrator and that grief is inescapable.

In Flanagans show, Roderick Usher grapples with the death of his innocent granddaughter, Lenore. At one point, Roderick narrates Poe's famous work.

Family member's names

Nearly all the names in the show hold some connection to the author, starting with Roderick and Madeline, who are the twins in Poe's Fall of the House of Usher.

Poes 1835 poem Morella likely inspired the name for Fredericks wife and Lenores mom, Morelle. Meanwhile, Arthur Pyms name could have been influenced by Poes The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket.

Though they dont share the same name, Rodericks 22-year-old wife Juno could be a connection to Poes own young wife, cousin Virginia Eliza Poe, whom he married when she was 13 and he was 27. Solely based on her name, however, Juno could have also been a reference to the writers poem Eureka, which mentions Juno.

Victorines girlfriend, Alessandra Ruiz, was likely based on one of the characters in Poes 1835 unpublished play Politan. As for Rufus Wilmot Griswold, the CEO of Fortunato who acts as a pain to Roderick and Madeline? He takes on the name of Poes longtime critic.

In another Poe reference, Fortunatos money-making drug Ligadone was likely inspired by the 1938 tale, Ligeia. The story, which has a central theme focused around the inevitability of death, follows a woman named Rowena, who originally died from an illness but was resurrected as Ligeia.

The finale is based on another short story

The finale has elements of Poe's The Cask of Amontillado.

In the story, a man named Montresor seeks revenge on another man named Fortunato, Flanagan's title for the family's pharmaceutical company. Montresor gets Fortunato, who is dressed as a jester, drunk on wine and the two venture into the catacombs. There, he buries him alive in the walls.

Flanagan's version sees Roderick and Madeline go to a Fortunato company party and gift Rufus, who is also dressed as a jester, poisoned wine called Amontillado. As he starts to feel the effects, Madeline seductively takes him to the basement. There, she and her brother bury him alive.

After all, if we learned anything from this deep dive into Poe's works, it's that it wouldn't be a Poe story if someone didn't end up buried alive, or in the floorboards, or in the walls.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com
The family of the Army reservist accused of fatally shooting more than a dozen people in Lewiston, Maine, alerted police and military officials that he was experiencing an acute mental health episode before the Wednesday night massacre, his sister-in-law said.

Robert Card, 40, a firearms instructor and longtime member of the Army Reserve, began to hear voices that were saying horrible things about him a couple of months ago when he was fitted for high-powered hearing aids, said Katie Card, who is married to his brother.

Follow along for live coverage

He was picking up voices that he had never heard, she told NBC News. His mind was twisting them around. He was humiliated by the things that he thought were being said.

Katie Card said the family did their best to reassure Robert Card that the comments were not real, including by verifying with some of the people he claimed had made the remarks.

But, she said, it turned into a manic belief.

He was just very set in his belief that everyone was against him all of a sudden, she said.

Robert Card, who was still at large Thursday, is accused of killing at least 18 people and injuring many others at a bar and a bowling alley, police said.

His sister-in-law said the family reached out to police and his Army Reserve base as they got increasingly concerned" in the last couple of months.

We just reached out to make sure everyone was on the same page, because he is someone who does gun training, she said. We were concerned about his mental state. Thats all.

Her husband went back and forth with the Army, Katie Card said.

They were following up on it, too, but hes never been someone we thought would actually do anything, she said.

The Army confirmed Robert Cards status with the Reserve, but it did it not directly address the family's claim that loved ones had shared their concerns before the attack.

Two senior law enforcement officials said Cards unit commanders sent him to receive psychiatric treatment this summer after they became concerned about threats he made to the base and his claims that he was hearing voices.

Card spent about two weeks undergoing inpatient psychiatric treatment and was released, the officials said. It is not clear what further action was taken.

A Defense Department official said Cards unit requested that law enforcement be contacted in July after he began behaving erratically. New York State Police responded and took him to Keller Army Community Hospital at the U.S. Military Academy for medical evaluation.

In a statement, Army spokesperson Bryce Dubee said there are no records to indicate that Card had instructed or participated in any training while his unit supported West Point summer training in July.

The Army did not train him as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army, Dubee said.

"We take matters such as this very seriously, and our primary concern is ensuring that all legal and appropriate actions are taken in accordance with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct among our Soldiers and civilian personnel," he said.

Katie Card declined to discuss whether the family tried to restrict his access to firearms.

As officers headed to Maine to help with the manhunt, a note was found at Robert Card's home during a search with a warrant, four senior law enforcement officials said. Investigators are trying to determine the meaning of the note and how it could guide their investigation, the officials said.

The weapon believed to have been used in the attack was a sniper rifle with .308 caliber bullets, and it was purchased legally this year, officials said.

Robert Card enlisted in the Army Reserve in December 2002 and had no combat deployments, Dubee said. He is assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment in Saco, Maine.

His sister-in-law said he had severe hearing loss most likely due to his being around constant gunfire.

She said the family has been continually messaging him to tell him that he is loved and that he needs to do the right thing but has not heard from him.

Katie Card said her brother-in-law is a wonderful person and a great father to his son, who just graduated from high school. She said that his behavior change was sudden and that he had not previously experienced mental health issues.

We dont know this person. This is not him, she said. We are so sorry for the pain hes caused others."
DEIR AL BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  Mahmoud Shalabi did not evacuate his home in northern Gaza despite the frightful Israeli warnings of a looming, far more brutal assault to come as it presses ahead with its war against the Hamas militant group.

The Palestinian aid worker is among hundreds of thousands who have remained. Others who initially heeded the Israeli warnings to head south have returned to the territory's north, where Israel says it considers all those who stay possible accomplices of Hamas.

Shalabi said leaving his home in Beit Lahia didnt make sense considering the relentless bombardment of southern Gaza, where Israel has repeatedly urged the more than 1 million northern residents like him to seek refuge. The overcrowded shelters and shortages of water and food in the south played a part in their decisions, said Shalabi and others who remained.

Risk death at home, or elsewhere in Gaza, they said.

Leaving would be reasonable only if Israel stopped targeting the south, said Shalabi, who works for Medical Aid for Palestinians, a U.K.-based charity providing health services. It doesnt make sense to me that I should leave my home to go and get killed in a tent in the south of Gaza, he said.

The risks for those staying in the north are likely to rise exponentially in the event of an expected Israeli ground offensive, after two-and-a-half weeks of heavy bombardments have already claimed more than 6,500 lives in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

With tens of thousands of troops massed along Israel's border with Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday Israel was preparing for a ground incursion. He refused to say when it would begin.

Israeli military officials have said they are determined to crush Hamas in response to its brutal Oct. 7 attack on Israeli border communities, and the focus will be on the north, including Gaza City, where Israel says key Hamas assets, tunnels and bunkers are located.

Some 350,000 Palestinians are still in northern Gaza, according to Israeli estimates. Military officials have repeatedly exhorted Palestinians to move south, but have not said whether the presence of a large number of civilians would be a factor in deciding whether to send in tanks and ground troops.

Israel says it seeks to strike Hamas and doesn't target civilians, but Gaza health officials say many of those killed have been women and children. Those numbers are expected to climb with a ground offensive, which would likely see fierce fighting inside crowded urban areas.

International rights groups have sharply criticized the Israeli evacuation orders, saying they cannot be considered effective warning to civilians, under the rules of international law, because of a lack of realistic options for those fleeing.

When the evacuation routes are bombed, when people north as well as south are caught up in hostilities, when the essentials for survival are lacking, and when there are no assurances for return, people are left with nothing but impossible choices, said Lynn Hastings, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories. Nowhere is safe in Gaza.

Those staying put in the north are bracing for worse to come. They live among the ruins of once bustling neighborhoods while facing dire shortages of fuel, food and water amid looming hospital shutdowns.

Services in the north have deteriorated since Israels evacuation order prompted at least 700,000 Palestinians to flee south. Most homes have no electricity, water or fuel.

More than 1.4 million Gaza residents are now displaced across the narrow strip, out of a population of 2.3 million, and U.N. shelters are packed at triple their capacity, U.N. agencies say.

In the north, entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble.

"Everywhere there is debris, there are destroyed cars, there are destroyed houses. And its really difficult to get from one location to the other because there is no fuel, Shalabi said.

He said he walked for two hours to find a bakery still selling bread to feed his family of 10. Shop shelves are empty; residents are living on canned beans, pineapple, corn.

The little fuel still available, often from private stockpiles, is sold for exorbitant prices. Some rent out small water pump motors, demanding 50 shekels ($12) an hour, a huge amount for the average Gaza resident.

This week Shalabi ran out of cash, and scoured the blocks of dilapidated streets to find a functioning ATM. There were none.

About 50,000 people are sheltering on the grounds of Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest, in Gaza City. It is overwhelmed by a steady stream of wounded from airstrikes amid warnings that severe shortages of fuel, needed to power generators, could trigger a shutdown. No new fuel has been allowed into Gaza since the Oct. 7 raid.

Still, many Palestinians are choosing to return north, tired of moving from place-to-place under Israeli fire as shelters become overcrowded and unlivable. U.N. monitors estimate 30,000 have returned.

Ekhlas Ahmed, 24 and eight-months pregnant, was among them.

A week ago, she fled Gaza City after repeated Israeli warnings to move south. She returned after the home she was sheltering in along with 14 other family members in the south was hit by an Israeli airstrike.

It was a residential building and they bombed it, she said.

Ahmed, who has a 4-year-old son, is hoping for a ceasefire.

I am very frightened. All of us are frightened, she said.

___

Magdy reported from Cairo. Associated Press writer Jack Jeffrey in Cairo contributed to this report.

___

Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
Three former Mississippi Department of Corrections officers were sentenced to years of jail time for punching and kicking a prisoner in the head while striking her with an aerosol canister, federal prosecutors announced Wednesday.

The former corrections officers  Jessica Hill, LaToya Richardson and Nicole Moore  pleaded guilty to assaulting the prisoner in a July 2019 episode at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility.

The prisoner was in the fetal position and not resisting when the officers punched and kicked her in the head, prosecutors said. Hill also struck the prisoner with an aerosol canister. The beating continued until other prison workers intervened.

The defendants in this case ignored their sworn duty to protect inmates and chose violence instead, said Todd Gee, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi. We will continue to prosecute those who abuse their positions of authority and violate the civil rights of inmates.

Hill and Richardson were sentenced to three years and one month in prison with two years of supervised release. Moore was sentenced to two years in prison with two years of supervised release. They were all fined $1,500.

Reached by phone, Richardson's attorney declined to comment. Attorneys for Hill and Moore did not immediately respond to phone messages.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Former MS corrections officers sentenced to prison for beating prisoner
Courtesy of Netflix



"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."



Netflix's newest three-part, true crime docuseries, Get Gotti, is getting all kind of attention for its exploration of the life of notorious New York mob boss John Gotti, who was the head of the powerful Gambino crime family in the 1980s. The series breaks down Gottis early life, how he rose to power in New York, and how he evaded law enforcement over the years.

In 1992, Gotti had finally been caught by law enforcement, and had been convicted of charges that included racketeering, racketeering conspiracy, murder, illegal gambling, obstruction of justice, and conspiracies to murder, bribe a detective, obstruct justice, commit loan sharking, and commit tax fraud, according to Encyclopedia.com. Gotti died of throat cancer in 2002 while serving a life prison sentence without the possibility of parole and a $250,000 fine for his crimes.

But the new series also dives into the lives of people in Gottis orbit, including his trusted associate Andrea Giovino. But who is Andrea Giovino and where is she now? Heres everything to know.

Who is Andrea Giovino?

Andrea Giovino is a former associate of mob boss John Gotti. In Get Gotti, she talks about her interactions with John. New York in the 80s was the perfect time to be a criminal, she says in the trailer. You can get away with everything.

How did Andrea meet John Gotti?

As Andrea details in the docuseries, she met John at Club A, a nightclub in New York that reportedly serviced a lot of shady clientele.

She was just 21 at the time. As Andrea explains it, she and her sister were invited to hang out in the VIP section with John and his associate, Mark Reiter. He sent over a bottle of pricy Dom Perignon champagne and asked them to join the table, The Guardian reported.

What was her role in the Gambino crime ring?

The doc explains that Andrea helped attract wealthy and powerful people to the Gambino crime ring (which John was in charge of), and she knew a lot about the mob business. She also was a close confidant of John, although the two didnt see each other in person very often.

She was romantically involved with Mark Reiter.

The night she met John Gotti, Andrea also met Mark Reiter, who was considered Johns right-hand man in the heroin business. Andrea and Mark hit it off and started dating. They even moved in together.

But when Mark was sentenced to 260 years in prison for drug trafficking two years later, she broke things off. Later, Andrea had a romantic relationship with a man named John Fogarty, who would become her husband, according to The Guardian.

What happened to Andrea?

Andrea was arrested in 1992 on charges of conspiring to distribute marijuana and cocaine in the Brooklyn and Staten Island area, The Guardian reports. Her husband, John, and brother, John Silvestri, were wanted for murder and extortion, and her arrest was a ploy to get them to confess. All charges against her were ultimately dropped.

When the FBI learned that someone was trying to kill her (thanks to a wire-tap), they tried to get Andrea to join the Witness Protection Program and move to the midwest, per The Guardian. Instead, she moved to a quiet suburb in Pennsylvania and decided to completely transform her life.

Where is she now?

Shop Now Divorced from the Mob amazon.com $35.96

After relocating to Pennsylvania, Andrea dove into "regular life." She joined the Parent-Teacher Association, a church, and a country club. She even became a motivational speaker and wrote a book called Divorced from the "Mob: My Journey from Organized Crime to Independent Woman.

Andrea is now a grandmother, and her Instagram posts are regularly dedicated to her children and grandchildren.

To hear more about John Gotti and Andrea's involvement with the mafia scene, you can check out Get Gotti, streaming now on Netflix.

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As gun deaths in Wisconsin have reach record levels, the Journal Sentinel examined how the deaths affect every county in the state. Photos: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOPELINE to the National Crisis Text Line at 741741.

When you think about gun deaths in Wisconsin, what comes to mind?

Whatever the narrative, it probably revolves around Milwaukee. You may think of the homicides that plague some neighborhoods.

Marquette University

Or maybe its an accidental shooting, after a young child gets a gun that wasnt locked up.

Or when a police officer shoots someone, or is shot, in the line of duty; or when someone kills another person after being attacked.

All those cases happen with disturbing frequency, and the tragedy is often amplified through news coverage. But they are not the complete picture of gun deaths in Wisconsin. Not even close.

In fact, homicides, accidents and shootings deemed justified put together do not account for even one-third of all gunshot deaths in Wisconsin, according to state data.

Suicide is the missing piece.

For every 100 fatal shootings in Wisconsin, on average 71 deaths are suicides, 25 are homicides, two are police shootings, one is deemed an accident and the balance are undetermined, according to a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel analysis of state health data.

In the past 18 years, the number of gun deaths in the state has been steadily rising.

Last year, more than 800 people died from gunshot wounds, a 95% rate increase when adjusted for population growth since 2004, the analysis found.

The increase was driven by a well-documented surge in homicides, especially in Milwaukee during the pandemic, but also by a less-publicized increase in suicides. Last year for the first time, gun suicides resulted in more than 500 deaths in Wisconsin, preliminary state data show.

The epicenter of these deaths is in Wisconsins rural counties, the analysis shows, and the rates have grown fastest in the states suburban counties.

The picture is similar, from two directions: Every year, guns are the most common means of suicide. And suicide is the biggest share of all gun deaths in Wisconsin.

The increase in deaths comes amid surging gun sales that began during the pandemic. Experts caution against pinpointing one factor, such as the jump in sales, as the single cause of the increase in gun deaths, but access to lethal means is a key ingredient  and the higher sales point to greater accessibility.

Meanwhile, the death data indicates that guns bought for hunting, sport or self-protection are increasingly being used for self-destruction by gun owners, or people close to them.

There are numbers behind the gun deaths, but more importantly, there are people.

Debi Traeder, chairperson of Prevent Suicide Marathon County, described how she grew up with guns and still has them in the home. She strongly favors locking them up, she said in an interview in September.

There is a proverb that says, 'If you save the life of my loved one, you saved my world,' said Debi Traeder, who works in suicide prevention in Wausau and has lived around guns all her life. For every person we help, the world is a better place.

In her work studying suicides, Sara Kohlbeck finds people are often surprised by the breakdown of gun deaths in Wisconsin. Grouping gun deaths together has drawbacks, she said, because circumstances vary widely around a suicide and a homicide, for instance.

But grouping suicides with other firearms fatalities has value, helping people understand that the issue of gun deaths touches every part of the state, said Kohlbeck, director of Suicide Research and Healing in the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Highlighting suicide as a major cause of firearms-related deaths will advance the entire conversation because a lot of us know somebody who has died by suicide, she said. It opens the door.

To underline the point, consider the ranking of gun death rates in Wisconsins counties. When homicides, accidents and police shootings are the measurement, Milwaukee County tops the list.

But when gun suicides are included, the ranking changes and the states rural counties rise to the forefront of firearms deaths.

Because of the complexities behind the different kinds of firearms deaths, coupled with the states hunting tradition, solutions to these deaths also must be multi-faceted, said Jean Papalia, a retired Madison police officer who works in suicide prevention.

Sara Kohlbeck, the director of Suicide Research and Healing in the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Such efforts may include a focus on better access to mental health services, especially in rural areas; firearms limits during a crisis, through the government and voluntary efforts; education and training for new gun owners; or more likely a combination of all of these and others.

Isn't there a temptation to find one easy fix? Papalia said. Thats why legislators are like, If we just had a  insert the word  a 24-hour waiting period, universal background checks, mandatory this or that, then these deaths would stop. But it is far more complex than a one-size-fits-all. I wish it were that simple.

Through the OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University, the Journal Sentinel sought death data from every county in Wisconsin to examine gun deaths statewide. Over 12 months, the reporting team obtained records for all but one county in Wisconsin.

What emerges is a far different map and a different picture of gun deaths, one that doesnt tilt so heavily toward Milwaukee, but is more evenly balanced.

What Wisconsin's data on gun deaths shows

Data from the state Department of Health Services and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a picture of trends in Wisconsin over the past 18 years.

Nine of the 10 counties in Wisconsin with the highest gun death rates were rural. Just one  Milwaukee  was urban, ranking sixth. The firearms death rate in Wisconsins rural counties was 12% higher than urban counties.

The rate is rising fastest in suburban counties  places such as Waukesha, Ozaukee, Kenosha and Washington, as well as St. Croix and Pierce counties near Minneapolis. The firearm death rate in those counties more than doubled.

African American males are the most likely group to die by gun homicide. White males are the most likely to die by gun suicide. Women die at lower rates than men.

Firearms account for the largest single share of both suicides and homicides  50% of suicides and 70% of homicides.

Accidental shootings and shootings by police were mostly flat and both declined in 2022. Because they are comparatively rare, they dont affect overall figures much.

Data challenges assumptions about gun deaths

Manitowoc County provided the most detailed data to the Journal Sentinel.

Curt Green, Manitowocs coroner, said he collects more detailed data so he can better educate the public.

Between 1990 and August of this year, there were 200 total gun deaths in Manitowoc County. Of those deaths, 176, or 88%, were suicides; 20 were homicides and four were ruled accidental. Green plans to soon hold a public session based on the gun death data.

Pamphlets and information at a booth for Walk the Talk America, a group founded by Michael Sodini, a former gun importer. The group's mission is to bridge the gap between mental health providers and gun owners. (Credit: Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Many people watch the news and they see these mass shootings and these homicides and they have this misconception that most gun deaths are homicides, Green said. Most people dont have any idea. Its suicides.

Green collects information about a victims mental health history and treatment, as well as alcohol and drug use. Of the gun suicides in the county since 1990, 75% of victims had reported feeling depressed and about half had problems with alcohol. In seven cases, the family reported the gun used had been recently purchased.

Several counties reported a higher percentage of suicides than Manitowoc, at 90% or even 100% of gun deaths.

That was the case in Langlade County, with 19,500 residents northwest of Green Bay. In the six years of records provided to the Journal Sentinel, there were 10 deaths from firearms. All were suicides.

Like 90-plus percent of homes in Langlade County have guns and its not for safety, Coroner Larry Shadick said. Hunting is big up here. And suicide is big for us.

In Milwaukee County, the homicide vs. suicide picture is the opposite of state averages.

There were nearly 3,000 gun deaths over 20 years of data provided by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiners Office. Homicides accounted for 70% of the total, while suicides accounted for 28%. Milwaukee had a low suicide rate compared to other counties; just six counties had a lower rate, state data shows.

Overall, Wisconsin's percentage of gun deaths that are suicides is 12 percentage points higher than the national average, according to CDC data.

Experts note this data counts only gun fatalities, not gun injuries.

There is a sharp difference in the fatality rates between homicides and suicides when a gun is used. In the majority of incidents in which a person shoots another person, there is not a death. In Milwaukee, for every one gun homicide, there are another four or five non-fatal shootings, according to the Homicide Review Commission.

With gun suicides, however, the numbers are more than reversed. An estimated 90% of gun suicide attempts result in death.

Gun owners not more prone to suicidal thoughts

The increase in gun deaths in Wisconsin is likely fueled by a cauldron of factors including the economy, isolation and despair, the states robust drinking culture, a lack of mental health services and increased availability of guns, according to Kohlbeck and others.

In a well-documented phenomenon, Americans bought 60 million guns between 2020 and 2022, with an estimated 5 million of those sold to first-time buyers, research shows. Gun sales essentially doubled in those months.

Surveys indicate there are now an estimated 400 million guns in the U.S. owned by roughly one-third of the population. There is at least one gun in an estimated 45% of homes, a figure that fluctuates somewhat over time and was slightly higher in the 1980s.

Experts stress that gun owners arent more prone to suicidal or homicidal thoughts. However, because of their access to a gun, a death is more likely should they encounter a crisis or should conflict arise.

The lethality of firearms, especially in an impulsive situation, can make a life-or-death difference.

If we are able to put time and distance between a person and the means to end their life, there is a good chance we'll be able to prevent that suicide and a good chance that person is not going to go on to die by suicide, Kohlbeck said.

Several rifles are displayed on a wall for sale at Chuck Lovelaces gun shop, Essential Shooting Supplies, in Park Falls. Lovelace spearheaded efforts to launch a suicide awareness and a gun storage program. (Credit: Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Guns are part of everybodys lives up here

Traeder, the suicide prevention advocate in Wausau, has been around guns her whole life and is well-aware of how often guns owners are turning firearms on themselves.

She attributes the epidemic of gun suicides in the northern part of Wisconsin to the commonness of guns, a go-it-alone attitude, and a lack of mental health resources.

Seventy-five percent of Wisconsin counties have a significant shortage of psychiatrists and 20 had no practicing psychiatrists at all, according to a 2018 report by the Wisconsin Policy Forum. More recent studies suggest the need has increased and the shortage only grown worse.

Guns are part of everybody's lives up here, Traeder said. There's still some old adages out there  I can take care of myself and pull myself up by my own bootstraps.

When Traeder was growing up, it was common on farms for there to be a shotgun by the door of the milkhouse for killing wild animals. No one thought anything of it, she said.

Traeder and her husband have guns in their Wausau home and they are locked up. She supports gun rights but also says people should be sure to secure guns and be alert to their own mental well-being and of others in the household.

Traeder and her husband have held guns for friends in crisis. Researchers estimate one-third of gun owners have done this.

Several years ago, Traeder and her husband were called to the home of a friend whose former spouse had just ended their life with a gun.

They sat with the friend, who was already living with depression. Before they left early the next morning, all agreed it was best the Traeders take the friend's guns.

They kept the guns in their safe for months. Just before the hunting season, the decision was made to return the guns.

It was just kind of like a natural progression. November came along. It was time for deer season, she said. Everybody was on a pretty even keel.

In a better spot today, the friend is grateful. The guns are locked up but someone else holds the keys.

We're a lot more alike

Papalia, the retired Madison cop, said when she talks about gun deaths in Wisconsin she reminds people the most likely victim is a white middle-aged or older man living in a rural county.

Jean Papalia, a retired Madison police officer, who works in sucide prevention in Madison.

Some people simply dont believe it.

That's who we are losing in droves, she said. These men up north are dying alone and nobody even wants to talk about it. The family has to grieve silently.

Papalia wants to be clear that she isnt putting more importance on one death over another. They are all important.

She hopes the Journal Sentinels analysis will generate more dialogue.

I think there's a thirst or hunger for having this conversation. And if we're all having the conversation, I think we're going to find out we're a lot more alike than we are different.

Project credits

Contributing reporter: Natalie Eilbert

Data analysis, graphics: Andrew Hahn, Daphne Chen, Kevin Crowe, Eva Wen

Photos, video: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

Story editing: Greg Borowski

Photo editing: Sherman Williams, Berford Gammon

Copy editing: Ray Hollnagel, Pete Sullivan

Design: Kyle Slagle

Social media: Ridah Syed

About this project

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter John Diedrich examined the full extent of gun deaths in Wisconsin during a nine-month OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University.

The project reveals the full picture of gun deaths in the state and tells the stories of people affected by gun deaths and those trying to find solutions.

Diedrich was assisted in the project by Marquette student researchers Alex Rivera Grant and Ben Schultz.

Marquette University and administrators of the program played no role in the reporting, editing or presentation of this project.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rural areas, suicides play big role in Wisconsin's rising gun deaths
Yvette Woelfel of Milwaukee lost her son, Kyle, who ended his life with a gun in Florida in 2012.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOPELINE to the National Crisis Text Line at 741741.

In a dream, Yvette Woelfel heard a startling message about her son, Kyle, who was just 3 years old at the time.

A deeply faithful woman, Yvette knew it was Gods voice. The message was as simple as it was stunning: You will not have Kyle your whole life.

Yvette and her husband had adopted Kyle only months earlier. Then her husband died suddenly of heart failure.

In that deep pain, it was Kyle who was becoming her reason to live. And now God was saying she wouldnt always have him.

She wouldnt accept it, couldnt accept it, couldnt fathom it.

Kyle was my heart and I was his.

Trying to fit in

Growing up in Atlanta in the early 1950s, Yvette had a strong sense of justice and purpose. She threw a tantrum when told to go to the back of the bus with the other Black children. Her parents decided it was best to move north. They settled in Beloit.

Marquette University

Yvette graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in teaching special education in the early 1970s. There she met the man who she would later marry. A friend of hers was dating Ted and she wanted to show him off.

Yvette was not impressed by him at first. And I was married to him six months later, she said.

Ted was white and they faced discrimination living in Green Bay.

It was only four years after Dr. Martin Luther King had been shot and killed, she said. We were pioneers. The love that we had for each other superseded everything else.

By the early 1980s, she and Ted moved to Nevada. Yvette was a field representative for the corporate headquarters of a convenience store chain. Ted worked in materials management for a hospital and later in sales.

Life felt too busy for children, Yvette thought. Ted thought otherwise.

Photo of (from left) Ted, Kyle and Yvette Woelfel shortly after the couple adopted Kyle in 1983. Ted died a short time later from a heart ailment. In 2012, Kyle took his life.

You need a kid, he told her.

The couple visited an adoption agency and soon enough, they had Kyle.

Just months later, Ted died suddenly from a heart ailment. The couple had breakfast and two hours later Ted was dead.

If you put your hand in my chest, it would have just disappeared inside of that huge hole, Yvette recalled.

After her husbands death, Yvette adopted another boy, Nathan. She and her boys moved back to Milwaukee in 1989. Kyle was 9; Nathan was 5 and she became a teacher.

Things were hard for Kyle, Yvette recalled. His birth father had thrown him against the wall when he was three months old leaving a flat spot on the back of his head, causing some level of brain damage.

His whole thing was trying to fit in with what he carried inside of him. I don't think most people ever saw the struggle that he went through, to read, to process, she said. At the same time, he would come across as extremely bright and funny.

With Yvette advocating for him  often ferociously  in an educational system she understood well, Kyle made it through school, thriving in things such as Boy Scouts. But he struggled mightily inside. At one point in high school, he wrote in a paper that he would be dead if not for his mother.

Kyle, right, and Nathan Woelfel around the time they moved to Wisconsin with their mother, Yvette, in 1989.

As Kyle grew older, things got even tougher. He started to hear voices and feel like there was more than one person inside of him.

At 19, he attempted to take his life by swallowing half a bottle of ibuprofen. He got treatment and continued to struggle. Holding a job was a challenge.

In his late 20s, Kyle moved to Florida. Yvette remained in Milwaukee where she worked as a special education teacher.

When Kyle was 32 years old, Yvette was in her classroom after school and found herself saying words to the effect, He is still here. It was almost three decades since she had heard he would not always be with her. It had been incredibly hard at times and yet he was still alive.

He was still here.

In the quiet classroom, Yvettes teaching aide looked up and asked what she had said, if she was referring to Kyle.

Yvette quickly said, no, waving off further discussion.

I said, Nothing, nothing, nothing.

A week later Kyle was dead.

Deep, desperate wail

Kyle had been living in an apartment in Tampa and told his mother he was working with veterans. They talked often, including the day he took his life in November 2012.

Yvette had just gotten home from work. She recently moved into a new house on Milwaukees north side, which Kyle had helped pick out. She thought the knock at the door was maybe because she had left her trash cans in the wrong spot.

Instead, it was a police officer. He asked if Yvette knew a young man in Florida. The officer then told her Kyle had ended his life with a gun.

Yvette made a deep, desperate wail. She can still hear the sound.

The daughter of a friend who heard it would later tell Yvette she thought it was from a wounded animal.

Yvette knew Kyle had guns; he had grown up around them. She taught her boys that guns were not toys, that they had only one purpose, to kill. They must be respected.

Ted had been a hunter and he introduced Yvette to guns and hunting. She had long been a gun owner and still is.

Her friend took her guns the night her son died but returned them a short time later.

Yvette doesnt blame the gun for the death of her son.

I dont believe guns are evil. They are inanimate objects she said. I didnt know the load he carried. I thought I did. Suicide is a moment thing. You lose all hope and either you pull that trigger in that moment or you get through it.

There is hope

Yvette got up the day following Kyles death and after making needed calls, she was perplexed as to what to do. She decided she would go to work. The children at Lincoln Center of the Arts, the school where she taught, needed her.

She opened up to co-workers about Kyles death and was surprised when four people on the small staff shared their own stories of suicide in their families.

From then, Yvette has been open about Kyles suicide, not shameful, but proud of who her son was.

Yvette Woelfel of Milwaukee talks about how the death of her son, Kyle, who ended his life with a gun in Florida in 2012, deepened her faith.

I want this to help, not like a faceless person on a helpline or an encounter group, I want people to come in and get their hands dirty, to hurt, to just scream, to help show you how to survive this, she said. I want people to know there is hope.

Even with that resolve, difficult days were ahead for Yvette. She found herself asking: Can I love a Jesus who let my child die?

Her bottom came about six months after Kyles death. She sat on her bed and said, Lord, I'm not going to kill myself, but you can take me. You can take me right now. I can't handle this.

And she heard the voice reminding her of what was said 29 years earlier. It was followed by a question: Would you rather I had not given you the gift at all?

That took me to my knees, she said.

Yvette had a decision to make. She turned to God and the Bible. There she found answers and still does, in particular in the book of Job, a man who knew suffering.

At one point, God commands Job to stand and answer.

Upon reading, Yvette found herself being asked the same question: Stand up like a woman and answer me if you can.

I realized the guy who makes the decisions about our lives, hes in charge of us. And I'm humble enough to accept that, she said. So whatever happens to me, my faith is strong and its his decision.

At 73, Yvette is retired from teaching and leads a Bible study. She is working pretty much full time as a caregiver to her 98-year-old mother.

As she reflects back on all she has gone through, the tears and laughter, the joy and hardship, she says she wouldnt trade any of it.

We are all a gift to each other. We are a gift from God. I realize I would not be the person I am without those 30 years of having that little boy, she said. I dont ask what could I have done differently. It wasnt what I wanted, but the fact is we both belong to God.

Project credits

Contributing reporter: Natalie Eilbert

Data analysis, graphics: Andrew Hahn, Daphne Chen, Kevin Crowe, Eva Wen

Photos, video: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

Story editing: Greg Borowski

Photo editing: Sherman Williams, Berford Gammon

Copy editing: Ray Hollnagel, Pete Sullivan

Design: Kyle Slagle

Social media: Ridah Syed

About this project

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter John Diedrich examined the full extent of gun deaths in Wisconsin during a nine-month OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University.

The project reveals the full picture of gun deaths in the state and tells the stories of people affected by gun deaths and those trying to find solutions.

Diedrich was assisted in the project by Marquette student researchers Alex Rivera Grant and Ben Schultz.

Marquette University and administrators of the program played no role in the reporting, editing or presentation of this project.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: A former Milwaukee teacher tells how she endured her son's suicide
Two high-profile abuse and neglect cases in Milwaukee County involve children whose parents said they were home schooling them.

A 12-year-old boy who was found dead earlier this month weighed only 54 pounds and had been homeschooled, his siblings told police. His father has since been charged with chronic neglect causing death but is not yet in police custody.

This summer, a mother charged after her two young sons were found roaming Milwaukee's south side naked and covered in feces told authorities the boys had never been enrolled in school and that she home-schooled them.

It's difficult to know exactly how many children are abused and neglected every year. In 2021, the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families reported there were 4,248 child victims of maltreatment, and 26 children died from substantiated maltreatment.

School teachers are mandated reporters, meaning they must contact authorities if they suspect any abuse or neglect of a child. But when a child is home-schooled or attending remotely  as many children were forced to do during the COVID-19 pandemic  they may be more likely to slip through the cracks.

Heres what to know about home-schooling in Wisconsin:

What do parents have to do to home-school their children?

There is not much oversight throughout the school year over homeschool families in the state, but there are some requirements families must meet at the beginning of the school year or when they begin homeschooling for the first time.

First, every year at the beginning of the school year, families must file a statement of enrollment, or PI-1206 form, with the Department of Public Instruction. This form must be filed each year by Oct. 15.

The statement must let the state know how many elementary and high school students were enrolled in your homeschool as of the third Friday in September. Your statement also must certify that:

The main purpose of your homeschool is either religious or private. Its purpose cannot be to circumvent compulsory school attendance laws.

Your homeschool is privately controlled. This means its not run by a public school or other government agency.

Your homeschool will provide at least the 875 required hours of instruction each year. Homeschool organizations like the HSLDA and Wisconsin Homeschooling Parents Association recommend that parents keep track of their schooling hours to make sure theyve documented the required amount.

You must teach the required subjects in a sequentially progressive fashion. The required subjects under Wisconsin law are: reading, language arts, math, social studies, science and health. Sequentially progressive means that the content taught in each subject area builds on itself and becomes more challenging as the year progresses.

How many children are home-schooled in Wisconsin?

Private and home schools arent held to the same standard as public schools for reporting enrollment data, according to state officials. That means that when it comes to reporting enrollment, theres likely homeschool students who exist in the state but arent captured by state records.

The pandemic spurred a nearly 50% increase in the number of Wisconsin students that are homeschooled.

According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, homeschool enrollment soared in fall 2020 by nearly 50%. Homeschooled students still make up a relatively small portion of Wisconsin students, but the increase signals parents and guardians showing interest in homeschooling their children.

Since 2020, homeschool enrollment declined, dropping by 2,476 students or 7.8% in fall 2021 and again by 1.9% or another 549 students in fall 2022.

Still, homeschool enrollment sat at nearly 30,000 students last year, which is 33.3% above pre-pandemic levels.

What kind of teacher rules and oversight is there for home schooling?

DPI doesnt provide any personal consultation or other technical assistance for any home-based education.

Backed by the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA), a Christian nonprofit thats fought to cement the freedom to homeschool children across the county, theyve worked to make sure homeschooling parents face little oversight from government officials.

Under Wisconsin law, theres no minimum education requirements for parents who provide a homeschool education. Homeschool parents arent required to hold a teaching certificate or license.

Wisconsin allows parents to homeschool regardless of past convictions or family service cases or reports.

How does that compare to oversight for public or private school?

Teachers, school administrators and other school employees serve as mandated reporters in the public school system. According to Harvard Law professor Elizabeth Bartholet, school staff make up the greatest portion of reporters to Child Protective Services.

Meanwhile, in all but two U.S. states, parents do not have to pass a criminal background check in order to homeschool. This is the case in Wisconsin.

In many states, including Wisconsin, homeschool parents do not have to meet a minimum education level in order to homeschool their children.

Other countries have greater restrictions and oversight on homeschooling. Some countries require home visits, but the U.S. does not.

Why do parents choose to home-school their children?

There are many reasons parents choose to homeschool their children. A 2016 survey from the National Household Education Surveys Program reported by the Coalition for Responsible Home Education found that these are the top reasons parents choose to homeschool:

A concern about the environment of other schools

A desire to provide moral instruction

Dissatisfaction with academic instruction

A desire to provide religious instruction

A desire to provide a nontraditional approach

Child has other special needs

Child has a physical or mental health problem

Child has a temporary illness

How to identify signs of neglect

According to Kids Matter, Inc., which provides services for abused and neglected children in Milwaukee County, child neglect can be recognized by physical and emotional characteristics.

Physical signs:

Poor hygiene and/or odor

Inappropriately dressed for weather

Unmet medical or dental care needs

Young children left alone and unsupervised for long periods of time

Failure to thrive

Malnutrition

Constant hunger, may beg or steal for food

Acts as a parent to his/ her siblings

Arrives early and stays late a t school, plays areas or other peoples homes

Behavorial signs

Extreme willingness to please

Oldest child has a parental relationship with his/her siblings

Is always watchful, as though waiting for something bad to happen

Has learning problems (or problems concentrating) that cant be attributed to specific psychological or physical causes

Anyone who suspects a child is being neglected can report suspected child abuse and neglect by contacting the county where the child resides. Contact information is available on the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website at dcf.wisconsin.gov/reportabuse.

You can also make a report with your local law enforcement offices. If a child is in imminent danger, call 911.

Ashley Luthern and Elliot Hughes contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Homeschooling in Wisconsin: What to know about required hours, credits
After three weeks of paralysis in Congress, the House has elected a new speaker, and business can resume.

Lawmakers voted in U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana, a relatively low-profile social conservative and House Republicans' fourth nominee to replace ousted Speaker Kevin McCarthy, by a 220-209 vote Wednesday.

Johnson's election comes after a topsy-turvy Tuesday in the House. The Republicans' third nominee, Tom Emmer of Minnesota, dropped out mere hours after being nominated, as a flank of right-wing Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, spoke out against him.

The GOP holds a slim enough majority of the House that a speaker hopeful could only afford to lose four Republican votes, given all Democrats were aligned behind Democratic Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York.

On Thursday, Republicans were for the first time unified in their support of their nominee.

Johnson, vice chair of the House Republican Conference, is a fervent supporter of former President Donald Trump who played a leadership role in efforts to overturn the 2020 election results.

"Mike Johnson is a man of integrity and a principled conservative," U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, a Republican from Columbia City, Indiana, said late Tuesday on X, formerly Twitter. "I will be proud to cast my vote on behalf of northeast Indiana for him on the floor tomorrow to make him the next Speaker of the House!"

Early Wednesday morning, Trump lent Johnson support on Truth Social.

Here's how Indiana's congressional delegation voted:

Frank Mrvan, Democrat, 1st Congressional District: Jeffries

Rudy Yakym, Republican, 2nd Congressional District: Johnson

Jim Banks, Republican, 3rd Congressional District: Johnson

James Baird, Republican, 4th Congressional District: Johnson

Victoria Spartz, Republican, 5th Congressional District: Johnson

Greg Pence, Republican, 6th Congressional District: Johnson

Andre Carson, Democrat, 7th Congressional District: Jeffries

Larry Bucshon, Republican, 8th Congressional District: Johnson

Erin Houchin, Republican, 9th Congressional District: Johnson

More: How Indiana U.S. Reps voted on removing Kevin McCarthy as House Speaker

Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on Twitter @kayla_dwyer17.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: There's a new House speaker. Here's how Indiana representatives voted on Republicans' fourth nominee.
By Lucy Craymer

WELLINGTON (Reuters) -A coroners inquiry into New Zealand's worst mass shooting opened on Tuesday with a traditional Maori welcome and a reading from the Koran in remembrance of the 51 Muslim worshippers killed by an Australian white supremacist.

Armed with high-capacity semi-automatic weapons, Brenton Tarrant, 32, killed 51 people and injured dozens when he opened fire in two mosques on March 15, 2019, in Christchurch.

Tarrant released a racist manifesto shortly before the attack and streamed the shootings live on Facebook. He was convicted on 51 charges of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and one charge of committing a terrorist act and is serving a life sentence in prison without parole.

I ask simply that we keep each of the 51 people whose lives have been lost, and that common goal at the centre of this hearing, Deputy Chief Coroner Brigitte Windley said as she opened the inquiry.

Windley said the inquiry would seek to shine a light on what happened and would consider making recommendations to reduce the chances of a similar event happening again.

This inquiry is not about establishing liability or negligence, she said. I have no mandate to award compensation or to direct further proceedings.

Over the next six weeks the inquiry will examine 10 issues including the response by emergency services and hospital staff, whether Tarrant had direct assistance from any other person and the cause of death for each of the deceased.

Windley is not expected to release her findings until some time in 2024.

The inquiry is a legal process required by New Zealand law to examine unexpected deaths and receives input from medical examiners, police, first responders and other witnesses to the death.

The main courtroom was full and further space had been made available in a neighbouring courtroom for families to watch a livestream.

Before the first witness appeared, a video was played with photos and memories of all those who died. The start of the inquiry was then dedicated to the events on the day and how emergency services responded.

(Reporting by Lucy Craymer; Editing by Stephen Coates)
An Indian company that manufacturers a key component in lithium-ion batteries has promised to create 500 jobs at its first U.S. factory near Wilmington.

On Thursday, North Carolina awarded Epsilon Advanced Materials an incentive package to build a facility in the Southeast county of Brunswick. The plant will produce graphite anode material, which is used for energy storage and electric vehicles.

The hundreds of workers are expected to be hired between 2026 and 2028. The average minimum wage at the site is estimated to be approximately $62,260. The company says it was looking at six Southeastern states to build its first U.S. site, with Tennessee and North Carolina the two finalists.

Epsilon plans to use raw materials like mesophase coke to produce its graphite anodes. On its website, Epsilon states this material allows anode manufacturers to lighten the process and minimize their carbon footprint.

State leaders, including Gov. Roy Cooper, celebrated the jobs announcement this afternoon at Brunswick County Community College.

North Carolina continues to lead the way in the transition to a clean energy economy by attracting good-paying jobs from great companies like Epsilon that make our state stronger and healthier, Cooper said.

Epsilon Advanced Materials is a subsidiary of the Mumbai-based Epsilon Carbon. In a statement Thursday, the companys managing director Vikram Handa said the Brunswick plant marks the largest Indian investment in the U.S. electric vehicle battery industry.

In an interview with The News & Observer, Handa and Epsilon Advanced Materials CEO Sunit Kapur said power availability and the sites proximity to the Atlantic Ocean were major drivers in the selection. The factory will occupy the Mid-Atlantic Rail Industrial Park, a megasite within 20 miles of the Port of Wilmington.

Kapur said the company intends to break ground on the site in the middle of 2024.

If it meets its hiring and investment commitments, Epsilon is in line to receive $3.44 million in payroll tax breaks from the state over 12 years. Additional state spending for the project includes $1 million to the community college system for job training and millions for infrastructure from the Golden Leaf Foundation, the N.C. Department of Transportation and the N.C. Department of Commerce.

The total state incentive package could be worth more than $19.4 million. Local incentives offered by Brunswick County and other partners total another $14 million. By the end of the state incentive grant term, in 2037, North Carolina estimates the Epsilon project will increase its GDP by $1.3 billion and boost net state revenue by around $22 million.

Epsilons arrival brings another lithium ion battery stakeholder to the state. Toyota is currently constructing an ion battery plant south of Greensboro expected to employ 2,100 people.

A pair of lithium mining companies also look to operate west of Charlotte in Gaston County.

Open Source

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Gov. Kim Reynolds vigorously defended Iowa's $2 million deployment to the southern border on Wednesday, criticizing the way President Joe Biden has approached border policies and emphasizing the harms that drug trafficking poses to Iowans.

For more than two years, Texas has been ground zero for the national security and humanitarian crisis that we see taking place on the southern border," Reynolds said at a Wednesday news conference. "As governor, I have a responsibility to protect the safety and well-being of Iowans. And protecting them at home starts with protecting the southern border.

Reynolds, a Republican, sent 109 National Guard soldiers to Texas from Aug. 2 to Sept. 1. Thirty-one state patrol officers and agents followed, deploying from Aug. 31 to Oct. 2.

Reynolds and officials with the Iowa Department of Public Safety and Iowa National Guard gave a briefing Wednesday on the two-month deployment, which was funded using federal COVID-19 relief money.

Here's what we know about the mission, and why Reynolds and other state officials say it was necessary.

What did the Iowa troops and officers do at the southern border?

In May, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott asked his fellow governors to send reinforcements to help state law enforcement at the border.

Iowa's National Guard soldiers partnered with the Texas National Guard to monitor illegal crossing points and to apprehend individuals who entered the country illegally.

Our soldiers assisted and supported with the apprehension by (Customs and Border Patrol) of approximately 1,700 illegal immigrants, the surrender of roughly 1,200 immigrants to CBP, the arrest of two individuals with outstanding U.S. warrants, and a large number of migrants who were turned back at the Mexico border at illegal crossing zones," said Major General Stephen Osborn, Adjutant General of the Iowa National Guard.

The Iowa State Patrol troopers and agents paired up with the Texas Department of Public Safety to do regular patrol routes and to investigate smuggling attempts.

According to a news release from the governor's office, the Iowa Department of Public Safety officers were "directly involved in 40 human smuggling cases, 11 drug trafficking cases, 14 narcotics arrests, 6 weapons arrests, 42 vehicle pursuits, 35 vehicle bail outs, 11 stolen vehicle recoveries, and 491 illegal migrants were turned over to Customs and Border Patrol."

This wasn't the first time Iowa personnel went to Texas.

In 2021, Reynolds deployed about 28 Iowa State Patrol troopers to the border for 14 days in the Del Rio area in southwest Texas, where they accompanied Texas law enforcement on patrols, assisted with humanitarian efforts, helped disrupt criminal networks and investigated human smuggling, officials said at the time.

How much did Iowa's southern border mission cost?

Iowa used nearly $2 million of federal funds for its most recent border mission.

Iowas mission to support Operation Lone Star cost a combined total of approximately $1.93 million, but not a penny will be paid by the state," Reynolds said. "Instead, it will be paid using federal funds allocated to Iowa through the American Rescue Plan."

The American Rescue Plan is a COVID-19 relief package that Biden signed into law in 2021 and that Republicans uniformly opposed. The law gave billions of federal funds to states as they recovered from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Since the president and his administration have refused to rescue Americas borders, weve done our part on their behalf," Reynolds quipped.

Why did Gov. Kim Reynolds send a mission to the border?

Reynolds argued that Iowa is especially at risk for drug trafficking from Mexico.

Iowas location at the intersection of two major interstates provides human traffickers and drug cartels a direct route from Mexico to the Midwest," Reynolds said. "And from 2020 to 2022, Iowa has seen a 500% increase in fentanyl seizures, a 100% increase in meth seizures, and we have seen drug-related deaths increase by 35%. We have seen unprecedented levels of fentanyl, meth and cocaine now exist in our regions drug supply, and its putting Iowans at risk.

It is unclear exactly how many of those Iowa drug seizures and overdose deaths can be linked to drugs smuggled across the southern border.

Iowa Department of Public Safety Commissioner Stephan Bayens presented Iowa's drug seizure totals from March to May 2023. Iowa law enforcement officers seized 335 pounds of meth, 15,350 fentanyl pills, three pounds of heroin, 136 grams of crack cocaine, 72 pounds of cocaine and 80 pounds of marijuana.

Bayens said officers uncovered seven cases within that 90-day window that had "a direct evidentiary link to the Mexican cartels." He said Iowa law enforcement started tracking the number of cases tied to the southern border in 2019. According to Bayens, the number of Iowa cases tied to the southern border have "spiked" since 2021.

Reynolds also made a broader argument that illegal immigrants to the U.S. could be a national security threat.

"When you see the number of terrorists that they've apprehended that are crossing our borders? My god. Think of the ones that have gotten by us, that they didn't apprehend," she said.

According to NBC News, 160 migrants who were on the FBI's terrorist watchlist were apprehended at the southern border in fiscal year 2023, which ended in July.

Most fentanyl enters the U.S. through legal ports of entry

Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are often conflated, but most fentanyl isn't being brought into the country by migrants crossing between entry points.

The Drug Enforcement Agency reported in 2020 that Mexican criminal organizations most commonly concealed drugs in vehicles and trucks that enter the United States through legal ports of entry. NPR reported in August that close to 90% of fentanyl is seized at legal ports of entry, and nearly all of those smugglers are individuals who are authorized to enter the country.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in February that it is "unequivocally false that fentanyl is being brought to the United States by non-citizens encountered in between the ports of entry who are making claims of credible fear and seeking asylum," CBS reports.

And fentanyl has been on the rise for years: According to CBS News, fentanyl seizures at U.S. legal ports of entry quadrupled in 2019 and 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic made it much harder to travel internationally and more potent, easily-concealable drugs  like fentanyl  became preferable for traffickers.

Stephen Gruber-Miller contributed reporting.

Katie Akin is a politics reporter for the Register. Reach her at kakin@registermedia.com. Follow her on Twitter at @katie_akin.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Gov. Reynolds cites drugs, terrorism as reasons for border mission
Dozens of U.S. colleges and universities are increasingly riven by tensions over the war between Israel and Hamas, offering a window into how a rising generation perceives the conflict in the Middle East and the U.S. governments foreign policy in the region.

In recent days, protests and demonstrations have broken out on several campuses, in some cases drawing national attention and putting intense scrutiny on young people that some observers consider unfair. In some situations, student activism around the war has overlapped with volatile debates about free speech.

George Washington University came under the spotlight Tuesday after students affiliated with the group Students for Justice in Palestine projected slogans critical of the Israeli government on the wall of a library, including Divestment From Zionist Genocide Now. The images circulated widely on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

The conflict between the Israeli government and the Palestinian people has long been the subject of intense debate in the U.S., especially on college campuses, where political activism is common. But the new war has raised the temperature dramatically, giving rise to social environments on campus that mirror the countrys similarly polarized politics.

Students at more than 100 colleges and universities from coast to coast planned walkouts in support of the Palestinian people on Wednesday afternoon, according to various posts on Instagram and X.

Pro-Israel demonstrators react while singing a song during a protest at Columbia University on Oct. 12, 2023, in New York. (Yuki Iwamura / AP)

The tensions have flared at some elite institutions, including Ivy League universities on the East Coast. Columbia University on Tuesday postponed a major fundraising drive amid intense debates on campus, where hundreds of people massed for competing pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian demonstrations after the Hamas attack.

In an interview, the student leader of a pro-Palestinian group at Columbia said their personal information had been published online and they had been harassed over their activism, adding that the atmosphere on campus has not been conducive to open and robust geopolitical debate.

If you cannot speak freely or engage in intellectual curiosity on a university campus, then the university has failed its students, said the student, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Leaders at Harvard University and the University of Pennsylvania have been sharply criticized by top donors for how they responded to the Oct. 7 assault and the fallout on their campuses. The terror attack in Israel killed 1,400 people. Israels counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 6,500 people, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.

However, some campuses have managed to come together in grief. Brown University students and community members, for instance, assembled last week to light candles and recite both Jewish and Muslim prayers as a form of tribute to the people who have been killed in Israel and Gaza, according to student newspaper coverage.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, on Tuesday ordered two state universities to deactivate chapters of Students for Justice in Palestine because they purportedly violated state laws barring antisemitism, according to the governors office.

DeSantis office claimed that the groups distributed a toolkit containing language that it said would promote discriminatory and violent behavior towards Israelis or Jews and promote supporting terrorist organizations. The National Students for Justice in Palestine did not immediately respond to a message requesting comment on DeSantis actions.

Protesters at Harvard University show their support for Palestinians in Gaza at a rally in Cambridge, Mass., on Oct. 14, 2023. (Joseph Presiozo / AFP - Getty Images)

The media offices for the University of Florida and the University of South Florida, the two schools named by DeSantis office, did not immediately respond to emails requesting comment.

The war has also stoked renewed fears about antisemitism and Islamophobia in the U.S. In recent weeks, Jewish and Muslim people across the country have expressed concern about the potential for hate crimes or other violence against their communities.

Jacob Miller, 21, a mathematics major at Harvard University, said he and other Jewish students have seen hateful posts on social media that echo age-old antisemitic tropes, including a reference to Jewish control of the media  a conspiracy theory often deployed by white supremacists and neo-Nazis.

The initial shock and grief of the first week has subsided, and yet tensions are still high because this is a very personal conflict for many, said Miller, who is the president of the universitys chapter of the Jewish student organization Hillel. He said the rising campus tensions have fundamentally reshaped the way I and fellow students conceive of this campus.

The end of this conflict wont change what has happened over the last several weeks, he said.

The recent public opinion polling paints a complicated portrait of how young people feel about the war and the U.S. governments immediate response.

In a Quinnipiac poll published last Tuesday, registered voters between the ages of 18 and 34 said they disapproved of the U.S. sending weapons and military equipment to Israel in response to the Hamas attack by a margin of 51% to 39%, and just 21% of voters in that age group said they approved of President Joe Bidens handling of the nations policy toward Israel.

When asked whether their sympathies rested more with the Israelis or Palestinians, 41% of registered voters between 18 and 34 said the Israelis, 26% said the Palestinians, and 33% replied that they dont know or didnt answer the question.

Meanwhile, a Generation Lab poll released the same day found that a majority of American college students blamed Hamas for the Oct. 7 assault on Israel, while two-thirds described the attack as an act of terrorism by Hamas.
Israeli reservists have criticised Benjamin Netanyahus son Yair for remaining in Miami rather than joining the fight against Hamas.

The 32-year-old is living in Florida, where he moved earlier this year after he was sued for defamation in Israel over social media posts against a political activist.

Around 360,000 reservists have been called up in Israel following the bloody 7 October attack on Israel launched by Hamas fighters from Gaza.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has received fierce criticism in Israel over the shocking surprise attack, which left more than 1,400 civilians and soldiers dead and hundreds more taken hostage.

Now reservists called up for the war have criticised his son for not returning home to fight in the expected upcoming ground assault on the Palestinian enclave.

Yair Netanyau, son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, assists in sorting donated supplies to IDF soldiers and Israeli families impacted by the Israel-Hamas war, with NGO Yedidim USA (Orit Ben-Ezzer/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock)

Yair is enjoying his life at Miami Beach while Im on the front lines, one reservist on Israels northern front told Londons The Times newspaper.

Its us who are leaving our work, our families, our kids, to protect our families back home and the country, not the people who are responsible for this situation.

Our brothers, our fathers, sons, are all going to the front line, but Yair is still not here. It does not help build trust in the leadership of the country.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses media during a joint press conference with French President in Jerusalem (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Israels armed forces are made up of a large number of reservists who have completed national service and can be called upon until the age of 40.

While most are based in Israel, some have flown from countries around the world to report for duty.

Ive flown back from the States where I have a job, a life, my family, another reservist told the newspaper.

There is no way I can stay there and abandon my country, my people, at this critical time. Where is the prime ministers son? Why isnt he in Israel?

It is the most uniting moment for us as Israelis in our recent history and every single one of us should be here right now, including the prime ministers son.

On 17 October Yair Netanyahu helped sort donated supplies to IDF soldiers and Israeli families impacted by the Israel-Hamas war, with NGO Yedidim USA in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Yair Netanyahu was sued by political activist Dana Cassidy in 2020 after he alleged in an online post that she was in a relationship with politician Benny Gantz, who was running against his father for prime minister.

A court ordered him to pay Ms Cassidy $34,000 in compensation and $6,000 in legal costs.
King Charles is continuing to stay updated on the unfolding situation in Israel and Gaza.

Today, Buckingham Palace shared on their social media chanels that King Charles met with various charity representatives: Medical Aid for Palestinians, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, and UNICEF UK. "Earlier today, His Majesty The King, as President of the @BritishRedCross, held an audience at Buckingham Palace for representatives of charities operating in the Middle East, including Gaza, to discuss the acute humanitarian situation," the Palace wrote.

In a photo released (see above), Charles poses with those he met with. Left to right, they are Jon Sparkes, chief executive of UNICEF, Melanie Ward, CEO of Medical Aid for Palestinians, Shireen Jayyusi, vice chair on the Board of Trustees for Medical Aid for Palestinians, Patrick Watt, CEO of Christian Aid, and Rory Moylan, head of region for the Middle East, North Africa and Europe, at the British Red Cross. Medical Aid for Palestinians was the only Palestinian-specific charity included, and according to their website, they are a UK-based organization that "works for the health and dignity of Palestinians living under occupation and as refugees."

A few days after the Hamas terrorist attacks, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson shared, "This is a situation His Majesty is extremely concerned about, and he has asked to be kept actively updated. His thoughts and prayers are with all of those suffering, particularly those who have lost loved ones, but also those actively involved as we speak." Later, he met with the United Kingdom's Chief Rabbi, Sir Ephraim Mirvis at Buckingham Palace.

Rabbi Mirvis shared, "At a time when Jews around the world are grieving following the unspeakable evil perpetrated against loved ones in Israel, I want to thank His Majesty King Charles III for expressing in person his deep concern, and his support for the Jewish community. His words of comfort and solidarity give us strength at this dark time."

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Bananas in a bowl

Enjoy your bananas while you have them, because they might not be around forever, as scientists fear one popular variety is on the brink of extinction.

The variety called Cavendish bananas, which is reportedly the variation that makes up 47% of the bananas humans eat, is under threat from a disease called Panama Disease (Fusarium wilt) tropical race 4, which is caused by a fungus infection, as reported by Insider.

The infection starts in the roots before spreading throughout the banana tree and inhibiting its ability to go through photosynthesis and other necessary processes, leading to the plant's death.

>>> Sign up for Parade's Trending News newsletter and we'll keep you in the know on the viral pop culture moments and celebrity news everyone is talking about <<<

James Dale, a professor at Queensland University of Technology, who also leads the banana biotechnology program there, spoke with the publication about the origin of the infection, stating that this particular TR4 strain was discovered in 1997 in Australia, affecting Cavendish bananas. Over the years, the infection has spread across the world.

"Since then it has spread to India and China, the world's largest producers of bananas. It has also spread to the Middle East and Africa and very recently was found in South America," said Dale.

While this is a daunting situation for Cavendish bananas, scientists are working on creating a TR4-resistant version, and Dale and his colleagues have reportedly succeeded. Because of this, and the fact that the disease spreads slowly, many scientists don't believe that Cavendish bananas will become extinct, though it's still possible.

"The disease moves slowly, so we have at least a decade before the impact is drastic," said Dale. "I would say with certainty that there will be a solution before the export market for Cavendish is severely affected."

But there are still some who don't think the work on genetically modified Cavendish bananas will help its survival in the long run. Dan Koeppel, author of Banana: The Fate of the Fruit That Changed the World, believes that the answer is in "variety" and transitioning to rely on many different banana varieties rather than mainly one type.

As scientists continue to work on the problem, only time will tell what happens to Cavendish bananas in the future.

Next: Here's What Happens to Your Body If You Eat Bananas Every Day
More airstrikes have ravaged swaths of the Gaza Strip, and residents are running out of food, water and other supplies. The bombardment continued as the Israeli military said its troops and tanks briefly entered northern Gaza to prepare for a full-scale incursion, the Israeli raid since the war began more than two weeks ago.

Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official told The Associated Press that the Palestinian militant group needs greater intervention from its allies, including Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, in its war with Israel.

The war, now in its 20th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said Thursday that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far  more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids following Hamas surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel.

The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas attack. Israel's military has raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released so far.

U.S. and other officials fear the fighting could spill over into a wider regional conflict.

Currently:

Heres whats happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

EGYPTIAN STATE MEDIA SAYS 5 HURT IN EXPLOSION AT RESORT TOWN ON BORDER WITH ISRAEL

An explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba on the border with Israel, wounding five people, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday.

The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

AIRSTRIKES IN GAZA: AMBULANCES, CHAOS AND TWISTED METAL

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip  A cloud of grey dust fills a street as men and ambulances rush to the site of an Israeli airstrike. An AP videojournalist sprints beside them, the chaos growing more intense as they draw closer to the destroyed residence.

Dozens of people pick their way across the remains of the building, which has been reduced to a jumble of concrete and metal. They scramble to pull the living and the dead from the wreckage.

A survivor, his face chalk-white with dust and eyes wide open, is carried in a blanket to a waiting ambulance. A woman who can still walk is led away from the blast area, with a man throwing a blanket over her shoulders. Wheres the ambulance? someone yells.

Israeli airstrikes on Thursday hit a densely populated refugee camp in Gazas southern city of Khan Younis, leveling more than eight homes belonging to the extended Abu Shamala family and killing at least 15 people.

PENTAGON SAYS AIR BASE IN IRAQ SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGE AFTER ATTEMPTED ATTACK

WASHINGTON  The Pentagon said Thursday that there was an attempted attack at Irbil air base in Iraq but there were no casualties and only minor damage to the facilities.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, declined to detail which Iranian-backed groups may be responsible for the recent spate of attacks at bases in Iraq and Syria.

He said there have been at least 12 attacks in Iraq and four in Syria, and 21 U.S. personnel sustained minor injuries in two separate attacks early last week. Of those, 19 had some type of traumatic brain injury, and all 21 returned to duty.

There have been no reported injuries since those two attacks on Oct. 17-18.

FAMILY OF 6 AMERICANS TRAPPED IN GAZA PLEAD FOR HELP FROM BIDEN

ANAHEIM, Calif.  Family members of six American citizens trapped in Gaza pleaded Thursday for President Joe Biden to help their relatives get out from what started as a long-awaited vacation and turned into a horrific nightmare of bombardments and smoke.

Shamiss Kaoud, 33, of Moreno Valley, California, said she and her sister have been calling the U.S. State Department daily to try to get her 68-year-old father, Jamal, his four brothers and one of her cousins evacuated from the war zone.

No one is listening. No one is helping. Its as if nobody cares, she told reporters at a press conference in Anaheim, California. Shouldnt being a U.S. citizen matter?

The group traveled to Gaza in late September to visit family and has since gone three times to Gaza's Rafah crossing but been unable to get out.

Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in greater Los Angeles, said the State Department has estimated 600 Palestinian Americans are stuck in Gaza.

The life of every citizen in America should be the priority of our government, he said.

US WILL RESPOND TO RECENT ATTACKS ON TROOPS STATIONED IN MIDEAST AT TIME OF OUR CHOOSING, WHITE HOUSE SAYS

WASHINGTON  A White House spokesman said Thursday that the United States would respond at a time of our choosing and a manner of our choosing to a recent spate of attacks said to have been carried out by Iranian-backed groups against U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East.

The blunt warning from White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby came a day after President Joe Biden said Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been directly warned that the U.S. would respond if Iran or its proxies continued to attack U.S. troops. Attacks on U.S. troops in the region have increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.

Asked on Thursday to provide further details on how that message was delivered to Khamenei, Kirby declined to elaborate.

IRAQI MILITIA SAYS IT ATTACKED BASE HOUSING US TROOPS

BAGHDAD  An Iranian-backed militia says it carried out an attack Thursday with two suicide drones against a base housing U.S. troops in northern Iraq.

The Islamic Resistance, an umbrella group for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it attacked the American occupation base near the airport of the city of Irbil with two drones that directly hit their targets.

It gave no further details.

The past week has seen more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria. Most were claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against U.S. backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

CYPRUS PITCHES LINKING ITS MAIN PORT TO GAZA AS A HUMANITARIAN AID CORRIDOR

NICOSIA, Cyprus  Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides says the island nation is ready to act as a hub for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Christodoulides told reporters in Brussels on Thursday that he proposed to fellow European Union leaders the establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor linking Cyprus main port of Limassol to Gaza. The Cypriot president said he discussed the idea with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

Government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis told The Associated Press that EU leaders showed interest in the proposal.

DISPLAYS AND DEMONSTRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD SPOTLIGHT PLIGHT OF HOSTAGES

PARIS  The absence of more than 200 people held hostage by Hamas is being felt  and seen  in places around the world.

Thirty empty baby strollers were displayed on a lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower on Thursday, each with a photo of one of the children being held. Two hundred empty plastic chairs were also lined up outside the United Nations' European headquarters in Geneva with photos of the missing.

Family members and Jewish groups are keeping the spotlight on the people taken captive by Hamas militants Oct. 7 as Israel continues to pound the Gaza Strip with airstrikes and prepares for a ground invasion.

Our goal is to  raise the level of public awareness regarding the situation of these children, Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France, said of the Eiffel Tower display. It is not acceptable to have hostages, and it is even more unacceptable to have children hostages.

Arfis group also arranged empty baby carriages in the French coastal cities of Nice and Marseille.

A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

Demonstrators and family members of hostages taken from the kibbutz Kfar Azza called Thursday for their release in a street protest in Tel Aviv.

A poster said 62 people from the kibbutz had been slain, 17 were kidnapped and one was missing. Hundreds more were wounded.

I want my brother back, said Ido Shamriz, brother of Alon Shamriz. I want him (back) now. Bring all the kidnapped people now to Israel, now.

IRAN'S FOREIGN MINISTER SAYS IT STANDS READY TO PLAY ITS PART IN RELEASE OF HOSTAGES

UNITED NATIONS  Irans foreign minister says Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel and is stressing that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 taken captive.

Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime."

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

But I warn, if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, Amirabdollahian said. It is our home, and west Asia is our region. We do not compromise with any party and any side, and we have no reservation when it comes to our home security.

RUSSIAN AND IRANIAN OFFICIALS MEET IN MOSCOW TO DISCUSS ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

MOSCOW  A senior Iranian diplomat discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip with a Kremlin Mideast envoy Thursday.

Irans Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri met with Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who serves as the Kremlin envoy for the Middle East.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said diplomats emphasized the need for a cessation of hostilities in and around the Gaza Strip and the prompt provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected Palestinian population.

It added that they also reaffirmed a shared commitment by Moscow and Tehran to continue close coordination of efforts in the interests of stabilizing the situation in the Middle East.

RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY SAYS IT DISCUSSED RELEASE OF HOSTAGES WITH A HAMAS REPRESENTATIVE

MOSCOW  The Russian Foreign Ministry said it discussed the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip and the evacuation of Russian nationals and other foreign citizens with a Hamas representative who visited Moscow Thursday.

The ministry said in a statement carried by Russian news agencies that talks with Abu Marzouk, a member of Hamas political bureau, were part of Moscows efforts to secure the immediate release of foreign hostages held in Gaza. It said issues related to organizing the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens were also discussed.

The ministry noted that the Russian side reaffirmed its unwavering position in favor of implementing the well-known decisions of the international community, including the relevant resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and the U.N. General Assembly, which envisage the establishment of a sovereign Palestinian state within the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital and coexisting in peace and security with Israel.

SPAIN'S ACTING PRIME MINISTER CALLS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE CONFERENCE

BRUSSELS  Spanish Acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez called Thursday for an international peace conference on the Middle East conflict.

From Spain, we propose that an International Peace Conference be held within six months so that the entire international community feels involved, is involved, and we can definitively find a two-state solution to Israel and Palestine, he said ahead of a European Union Council meeting.

Sanchez also called for a humanitarian cease-fire to get aid into Gaza and called on Hamas to release people who are being held hostage.
Editor's Note: This page reflects Thursday's news on the shooting in Maine. For the latest updates on the Maine mass shooting, please see our live updates file here for Friday, Oct. 27.Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story misstated the name of Just-In-Time Recreation, a recently renamed bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, because information provided by police was incorrect.

LEWISTON, Maine  Hundreds of law enforcement agents were urgently scouring communities around Lewiston, Maine, on Thursday for an "armed and dangerous" suspect in two deadly shootings at a bowling alley and a bar as terrified residents huddled in their homes.

Eighteen people were killed and 13 were injured in the Wednesday night rampage, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said at a news conference Thursday.

School districts canceled classes and authorities warned residents in and around Lewiston to stay inside and lock their doors as investigators launched a massive search for Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist, who police identified as the suspect in the case. Lockdowns extended as far as 50 miles away from the shooting sites.

A warrant is out for Cards arrest in connection with the murder of the eight identified individuals, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said at a Thursday news conference. Ryan Card, the suspect's brother, told CNN via text the family is fully cooperating with law enforcement, adding, "There are many people hurting out there, please focus on them. ... This is many people's worst nightmare.''

At 6:56 p.m. Wednesday, police first got a call about a shooting at a bowling alley known as Sparetime Recreation, Ross said. At 7:08 p.m., people reported an active shooter at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Both businesses are in Lewiston, a city of about 38,400 residents about 35 miles north of Portland and about 33 miles southwest of Augusta.

Seven people at the bowling alley, recently renamed Just-In-Time Recreation, were killed, including one female and six males, Ross said. At the bar, eight people, all males, were killed. Over a dozen people were rushed to nearby hospitals, where three died. As of Thursday, eight fatal victims have been identified.

A vehicle believed to have been driven by Robert Card was found overnight near a boat ramp in Lisbon, about eight miles away from Lewiston, according to Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck. The shelter-in-place order has been extended to the town of Bowdoin and Lisbon while Lewiston and its twin city, Auburn, remained under lockdown Thursday.

Steve Vozzella went to play cornhole at Schemengees Bar and Grille Wednesday night with a group of about 10 other deaf adults, his wife, Megan Vozzella, told USA TODAY. As of Thursday morning, she had not heard from her husband.

"I am so overwhelmed and angry at the shootings," Vozzella, who is also deaf, said on Facebook Messenger.

A law enforcement official moves a roadblock into place near Schemengees Bar where a shooting took place in Lewiston, Maine, on Oct. 26, 2023.

Families remember Maine shooting victims

While authorities have not released the victims' names, loved ones have been confirming their deaths.

A volunteer youth bowling coach who was known for encouraging children and a bar manager whose father said tried to confront the gunman were among the 18 people killed on Wednesday.

"The senseless tragedy last night has really affected our community and certainly, my heart goes out to the victims and their families," Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said on CNN Thursday night.

 Minnah Arshad and Vanessa Arredondo

Law enforcement officers left home they surrounded, executed search warrants

Most law enforcement officers and a helicopter that had surrounded the home connected to a relative of Card near rural Bowdoin, Maine, left the residence Thursday night after executing a search warrant. Authorities had visited the home twice on Thursday. Several police cars had blocked off a dimly lit winding, wooded road near the home and around 6:30 p.m., a convoy of a dozen police vehicles left the area.

Heavily armed officers later returned and called for a person or people inside to surrender. Officers asked media crews to turn off their lights and residents in the area were also told to shelter-in-place.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, officers shouted outside the home.

Dave Letarte, a neighbor of the suspect's parents, couldn't get to his house because of the police lockdown at the scene.

His father and his younger brother Ryan had been trying to get him help but has been having trouble," he said. "What the problem was I don't know.

Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss told USA TODAY that law enforcement officials were executing several search warrants.

"It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search," Moss said in an email. "Law enforcement officials are simply doing their due diligence by tracking down every lead in an effort to locate and apprehend Card."

Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the searches were taking place, told the Associated Press that he knows the Card family and that Robert knows the terrain well.

This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here. He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket, he said.

 Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY, and Patrick Cronin, USA TODAY Network

'This community is tight'

Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque told CNN on Thursday night that the manhunt is a "fluid and dynamic situation."

Auburn is home to over 24,000 people and is a twin city of Lewiston  separated by a river of about 100 yards, Levesque said. The city had been under a shelter-in-place order for 24 hours and officials have been focusing on providing resources for the community, including victims and their families.

"This community is tight," Levesque said on CNN. "The bowling alley that we all go to is in Lewiston, the restaurant that we love to go to is there as well. We all are touched  we all know someone."

Levesque advised residents to persevere and to stay vigilant.

State officials call for gun control: 'Take responsibility for this failure'

At a news conference Thursday night, state and local officials reminded residents that the shelter-in-place order remained in effect. Law enforcement officials did not provide any new updates on the search for Card but advised the communities of Lewiston and nearby areas to stay safe.

U.S. Sen. Susan Collins called it a dark day.

This heinous attack, which has robbed the lives of at least 18 Mainers and injured so many more, (is the) worst mass shooting that the state of Maine has ever experienced  and could ever imagine, she said at the news conference.

Collins and U.S. Rep. Jared Golden, who represents the Lewiston area, both called for more gun control laws. Golden said his past opposition to assault-weapon bans was a misjudgment and that he had had "a false confidence that our community was above this."

I have opposed calls to ban deadly weapons of war, like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime, Golden said. The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure, which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing.

Who is Robert Card?

Card, at the time of the shooting, was a sergeant first class in the Army Reserve, according to the Army. He enlisted in December 2002 and had no combat deployments. His military specialty is petroleum supply, and he has received several awards, including a Humanitarian Service Medal.

The Army said in a statement that Card's unit assisted in the summer training program provided at its academy in West Point, New York, in July, but "there are no records to indicate he instructed or participated in any training. The Army did not train (Sergeant First Class) Card as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army.''

Two surveillance photos on a Facebook post by local law enforcement showed a person police believe to be Card walking into a bowling alley with a rifle raised to his shoulder.

A state police bulletin circulated Wednesday said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this summer after hearing voices and threats to shoot up a military base.

In mid-July, Card was taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically, The Associated Press reported, citing a U.S. official.

CNN reported that Card's sister-in-law, Katie O'Neill, told the network the Wednesday rampage was "an acute episode. This is not who he is. He is not someone who has had mental health issues for his lifetime or anything like that.''

Three of the injured in critical condition at local hospital

Officials at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston said eight people injured in the shooting remained at their facility Thursday afternoon, three in critical condition and five stable.

The chief medical officer, Dr. John Alexander, said the hospital staff was trained to provide this level of care even though it's rarely necessary. Its unprecedented in terms of the severity of the injuries and the tragedy to the community, he said.

A father and a wife wait for word on their loved ones

Billy Brackett, 48, was at Schmengees Bar and Grill on Wednesday evening with a few other deaf adults who met weekly to play cornhole and darts, his father, William Brackett, told USA TODAY.

William Brackett said he called his son as soon as he saw reports of a shooting at the bar on television. But he has yet to hear from him and fears he was killed. I kept calling him and calling him and calling him and never got an answer, said Brackett, 80.

Brackett said he called local hospitals searching for his son and has been unable to go inside the facilities to look for him. I can't even go get his truck, Brackett said. "That's the kind of thing that does not happen in the state of Maine. It always happens someplace else.''

With no word from her husband, who was also at Schemengees on Wednesday night, Megan Vozzella told USA TODAY she expects the worst and is waiting to see his body. Police have not publicly released the names of the deceased they've identified.

"It has to stop with this world," she said, referring to the deadly attacks

At the bowling alley still known by locals as Sparetime, an evening of joy between parents and youths as part of a childrens bowling league quickly turned to horror. Zoey Levesque, 10, who was at the alley with her mother, told WMTW-TV she was grazed by a bullet. Its scary, she said. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

President Biden, VP Harris react to shooting

President Joe Biden on Thursday ordered the flags at the White House, public buildings, embassies, military posts and naval stations to fly at half-staff as a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence, the White House said.

Biden also urged residents of the search area to follow police warnings, and he said in a statement: Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.

Vice President Kamala Harris pointed out Thursday that gun violence is the No. 1 cause of death among children in the U.S., and said Americans don't have to choose between supporting the Second Amendment and passing common-sense gun safety laws.

"Congress can and must make background checks universal,'' she said in a statement. "Pass red flag laws. Ban high-capacity magazines. And renew the assault weapons ban.''

Search for suspect by land and water; Canadians on lookout

Card's vehicle was found by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, and the whereabouts of his 15-foot boat are unknown, according to Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station. The Coast Guard sent a patrol boat to waters in the area Thursday morning  "doing our due diligence,'' Smith said  but did not find anything noteworthy.

It's possible Card escaped in a different land vehicle and has traveled hundreds of miles from Lewiston. The Canada Border Services Agency has alerted its officers along the border with the U.S. to be on the lookout for the armed suspect.

Lewiston is about 160 miles southwest of the border with New Brunswick, Canada. CBSA said Canadian and U.S. officials are working together to protect Canadas borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry.

'You never think it's going to happen to you'

Billie Jayne Cooke, who is running for City Council, was at a candidates forum Wednesday night when gunfire broke out.

Bates College nearby went on lockdown, and a parent-teacher conference night ended suddenly. It wasnt until she got home to the Inn at the Agora in Lewiston, which she owns, that Cooke realized the small city where shes lived for five years would never be the same.

I said something on Facebook like, Its a matter of when, not if, and our when just happened now, Cooke told USA TODAY. Its horrible, its horrific.

Lewiston is a small city, and shes certain some emergency responders would have come upon people they knew whod been killed or injured.

You never think its going to happen to you, and I thank God it didnt happen to me, she said. But I know people whove lived here their whole lives, and they will are waiting to see who died last night because we will all know people who did."

 Phaedra Trethan

Multiple schools districts close, cancel classes

Public schools across Lewiston, Lisbon, Auburn and Portland were closed Thursday as were municipal offices in Lewiston. The class cancellations also extended to Bates College, a private liberal arts school in Lewiston.

"There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately," Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais said in a statement on the district's website. "Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps

Police are searching for clues into a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

Bates College on lockdown, postpones leader's inauguration

Diana Florence, 53, said her son, a sophomore at Bates College, has been on lockdown in his dorm room. When Bates students and faculty received the emergency order to shelter in place, Florence's son was already in his dorm.

"He closed the blinds, and unfortunately, because we live in a world where this is a sadly become normalized, he knew to stay away from the windows," she said.

Florence said this is the second time one of her children was put under lockdown after a shooting. Her daughter, a senior at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, had to hunker down after the shooting at her campus in August.

Hannah Orton, a senior at Bates, left hockey practice at a rink in Lewiston not far from the shooting just after the news broke. "My team and I, not thinking it was very serious, went to the dining holiday for dinner, and that's where went on lockdown. I was there until 5 a.m.," she told USA TODAY.

Wednesday's shooting forced the postponement of a celebration of Bates College's new leader, Garry Jenkins, the first Black president in the school's 168-year history, and also its first gay president. Jenkins wrote in a message to the college community, where classes have been canceled through Friday, that planned events for the inauguration are on hold.

"Given the tragedy and the current circumstances, we have decided to postpone all inauguration events until a later date and keep our focus on dealing with the ongoing emergency,'' Jenkins wrote on the college website.

 Cybele Mayes-Osterman and Nirvi Shah

Police guard hospital in Lewiston where patients being treated

Central Maine Healthcare on Thursday said its closing all physician offices in several communities, including Lewiston, Auburn, Lisbon and Portland, according to an announcement on its website.

Armed police officers on Wednesday and Thursday posted outside Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. Shortly after the shooting, the hospital announced it was reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and was coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

The Maine Medical Center, a Level 1 trauma center in Portland, alerted on-call staff and created critical care and operating room capacity in preparation for potential patients from the shooting, the hospital said in a statement.

A law enforcement officer carries a rifle outside Central Maine Medical Center during an active shooter situation, in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.

Business owner closes shop; 'a lot of shared concern'

Allen Smith co-owns the Forage Market on 180 Lisbon Street, right in between where the two shootings happened Wednesday night. Staff often visit the bowling alley for outings and Smith told USA TODAY on Thursday that he's hurt by how the shooting has affected the community.

The Lewiston location is closed Thursday while the cafe's Portland market remains open. But Smith said that could change.

Neither of his shops were open during the nighttime shooting, but he said his family locked their doors, "which we almost never do," and called friends and family.

He said the shooting has rocked the tight-knit community where he said people are almost always one degree of connection away from one another. But through the community's pain, he said people are reaching out and caring for one another.

"A lot of shared concern, camaraderie and messaging for people being OK and general concerns for people who've lost others."

 Krystal Nurse

Researchers suggest Maine shooter coupled ammunition magazines jungle style

In photos released by Maine authorities, a man is shown carrying a rifle with what appears to be a long magazine, or multiple magazines attached.

That image suggests the gunman may have coupled or taped two rifle magazines together, nicknamed "jungle style" by G.I.s in Vietnam, experts say.

The tactic was popularized after WWII and in Vietnam, where soldiers would use tape or bicycle inner-tubes to couple two magazines of ammunition together. Generally, the technique is used to decrease reload times in tactical situations, said Travis Pike, a firearms expert and NRA firearms instructor. He wrote about the history of coupling for GunMag Warehouse.

It allows you to have ammo on the gun in the event you dont have load bearing gear, Pike told USA TODAY.

The side of a bowling alley known by locals as Sparetime Recreation but recently renamed Just-in-Time Recreation, on Oct. 26, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine.

Other mass shooters have use taped magazines, including Robert Hawkins in the 2007 Westroads Mall shooting. He used a Century WASR-10 with two 30-round magazines taped together. A search warrant tied to Adam Lanza, the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooter, also located shotgun magazines taped together.

Despite the low-tech tactic, some gear manufacturers have started adding coupler" features to their magazines so they can be affixed together.

Nick Penzenstadler

Family members console each other in wake of shooting

Gabrielle Hathaway and Paul Englehart can see the bowling alley from the back window of their home. Hathaway said she often walks with her son to the bowling alley to spend time with friends and other families there. They also frequent Schemengees Bar and Grille.

The pair were home Wednesday when they said they got a flood of messages from neighbors and then heard sirens. "When you hear all the ambulances, and then they fade," Englehart said. "And then all of a sudden you hear them really loud again ... they're coming back."

Hathaway said her son came from his bedroom and said he had an alert on his tablet about an active shooter. They were unnerved when they woke up and realized a suspect was still on the run.

Englehart, the director of ballooning for the annual Great Falls Balloon Festival, said he's prepared to embrace community members who have lost loved ones in Wednesday's shooting. He said he's also sympathetic to first responders and medical workers coping with the tragedy.

"Everyone needs to remember these law enforcement officers that just saw this. They've got to go home," Englehart said. "We need to be here for them."

 Max Sullivan

Maine has lax gun control laws; state has few shootings

Maine has much looser gun laws than peer northeastern states. Gun control advocates quickly pointed out that the state does not have a red flag law to temporarily seize firearms for those in crisis amid other restrictions. Likewise, the state does not extend any background check requirements beyond what is federally required for unlicensed gun sales.

Giffords, a gun violence prevention group, gave the state an F in its annual scorecard this year, with no significant new gun legislation passed. The state does not ban assault-style weapons or large-capacity magazines, and it has no permitting requirements to carry concealed firearms or open carry a firearm.

Maine is known as a shall-issue permit-less carry state. Anyone 21 and over or 18 and over who is active or honorably discharged from the military, who can legally possess a firearm, can openly or concealed carry.

Maine has relatively few gun deaths. About 178 people died from gun violence in 2022. Reported violent crime rates in Maine in 2022 were the lowest theyve been since 1979, according to the FBI.

 Nick Penzenstadler

Shootings follow deadly assault in April; 36th mass killing this year

In April, a man fatally shot his parents and a couple in their Bowdoin, Maine, home and barn. He then fled to a nearby interstate, where he fired at passing cars and hit three members of another family.

Since 2006, more than 560 mass killings have been reported in the United States, according to a database kept by USA TODAY, The Associated Press, and Northeastern University. Over that time, at least 2,900 people died and at least 2,000 have been injured.

And Wednesday's shooting in Lewiston was the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to the database. Of those killings  which are defined as incidents in which four or more people have died, not including the killer, within a 24-hour period  at least 190 people have died.

So far this year, the nation has seen the second-highest number on record of mass killings and deaths in a single year  following 2019.

No American should leave their home and fear becoming the victim of a mass shooting, but tonight, Maine families are grieving from this untold loss of life, said Kris Brown, president of gun violence prevention organization Brady.

Lewiston's history in New England is peaceful, vibrant, diverse

Lewiston is the second most populous city in Maine and sits between Portland and the states capital Augusta. As of 2022, over 38,400 residents live in the city, which emerged as a major center for African immigration into Maine. The area of Lewiston has roots that date to the 17th century, where it later grew from a small town to a thriving mill city.

The city prides itself on being a place of opportunity, according to the Lewiston city website. Lewiston is also home to one the largest French-speaking populations in the United States and is the epicenter for Maines Franco-American heritage, according to the states office of tourism.

Vibrant and culturally diverse with a strong sense of community, Lewiston delivers affordable, accessible and abundant opportunity, the Lewiston city website states.

Contributing: Claire Thornton, Camille Fine, Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Maine shooting live updates: Police search for suspect Robert Card
An apparent backtrack by Donald Trumps ex-lawyer and fixer Michael Cohen threw the New York civil fraud trial into more chaos Wednesday afternoon.

Cohen gave combative testimony in the face of cross-examination by two Trump attorneys on Wednesday, after he had implicated Trump the day prior for directing him to reverse-engineer financial statements to increase his net worth.

On Wednesday morning, Trump attorney Alina Habba pressed Cohen about his 2019 congressional testimony when he said, Not that I recall, no, in response to a question about whether Trump had directed him or Trump Organization chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg to inflate numbers for Trumps personal statement.

Cohen said to Habba that he was lying in his testimony.

But after lunch, Cliff Robert, another Trump attorney, pressed Cohen further on his congressional testimony, and Cohen had a different response, saying that the testimony was not false.

So, Mr. Trump never asked you to inflate the numbers on his financial statement, Robert asked.

Correct, Cohen said.

That response prompted Trumps attorney to ask the first time for a directed verdict to dismiss the trial because Cohen was a key witness in the case.

Judge Arthur Engoron denied it, which led to Trump abruptly leaving the courtroom and declaring victory.

The witness just admitted that we won the trial, Trump told reporters in the hallway. And the judge should end this trial immediately.

The New York attorney generals lawyers asked Cohen in follow up questions to clarify his response. Cohen said that Trump never directly asked to inflate the numbers, but that what he wanted was known, because he spoke like a mob boss.

He tells you what he wants without specifically telling you, Cohen said. We understood what he wanted.

Cohens testimony is one element of the New York attorney generals civil fraud cast against Trump and his business, which is seeking $250 million in fines and to bar Trump from doing business in the state. But the AG has additional evidence and testimony that has already led the judge to rule before the trial began that Trump and his co-defendants were liable for fraud (Trump is appealing the ruling).

At the conclusion of Cohens testimony, Robert renewed his request for a verdict to end this case once and for all.

Absolutely denied, Engoron said in response.

The case has evidence, credible or not, all over the place, the judge said.

Engoron also said he didnt consider Cohen to be a key witness in the case, in which the New York attorney general accused Trump and his business of fraud.

Theres enough evidence in this case to fill this courtroom, Engoron said.

New York Attorney General Letitia James downplayed Cohens significance to her case against Trump in comments to reporters at the conclusion of Cohens two-day testimony.

This has been a four-year investigation, and there is mountains of evidence which basically corroborate the testimony of a number of witnesses, James said.

Its also important to know that Michael Cohen is not the main witness, his evidence has been corroborated by the mountains of evidence, enough evidence to fill the courtroom, James added. And so, I look forward, again, to this trial continuing, and of course, I always look forward to justice.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
North Carolina Republican House Speaker Tim Moore, who is considering a run for Congress, endorsed former President Donald Trump on Wednesday.

Trump is running again for president in 2024 in a crowded GOP primary field that includes his former vice president, Mike Pence, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Trump is the current frontrunner, even as he faces criminal charges.

Unequivocally, Im supporting President Trump, Moore told The News & Observer on Wednesday at the Legislative Building, before a House session.

Moore said that he thinks things were better nationally and in the world when Trump was president, saying there are more conflicts worldwide under President Joe Biden.

The 2024 election is shaping up to be a rematch between Biden and Trump.

House Speaker Tim Moore, seen here in a September 2023 file photo on the House floor, will not seek reelection in 2024.

Nationally, the economy was so much stronger when he was president. Internationally, we had peace. Now we have conflict everywhere. It all started with President Biden, with how he withdrew our troops from Afghanistan.

Some folks didnt like President Trump, didnt like his style. But its really hard to argue with the results, the fact that the economy was stronger, even having gone through COVID, Moore said.

The fact that we were on an international stage, it was some of the greatest time of peace weve had. The border wall was being constructed, that we actually had a border that was truly being secure in a significant way, he said. Moore is going to the United States-Mexico border on Saturday and said he is concerned about drugs being brought across the border with people entering the country illegally.

All of these things together, and I just look and I say, the job that President Trump did, and compare that with the awful job that President Biden is doing right now, and it was a no-brainer, Moore said.

Trump is currently on trial for fraud in a civil case accusing him of exaggerating his real estate holdings. Trump is also facing four upcoming criminal prosecutions in New York, Florida, Georgia and Washington, according to the Associated Press.

The N&O asked Moore what he thought about Trumps role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and attempt to overturn the election of Biden, as well as Trumps denial of the 2020 election results after Biden won.

Trump and 18 other people are charged in an illegal scheme in Georgia trying to overturn the election, the Associated Press reported.

Former President Donald Trump at a commit to caucus rally, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Jan. 6 was was very unfortunate. And those who committed a breach, committed the breach of the trust and breach of the Capitol grounds, you know, theyre having to pay the price for that. And thats just the way it is, Moore said.

Moore said people that destroyed property in the George Floyd protests and rioting in 2020 should be prosecuted as well.

I think theres a lot of political hyperbole thats floating around out there (about Jan. 6). I think any individuals who go in and stormed the Capitol building are responsible for their actions, period. And thats all unfortunate, and they have to be held accountable for what they do, he said.

Moore said that hes looking at the qualities of what he did as the president of the United States and what I know he would do if he came back in office again.

Moore said hell make a decision in the coming weeks about running for Congress. Under the new congressional maps expected to be passed by the General Assembly Wednesday, Democratic U.S. Rep. Jeff Jacksons district was redrawn to favor a Republican. The district includes Moores Cleveland County home.

Republican House Majority Leader John Bell, of Wayne County, and other state lawmakers have endorsed DeSantis in the primary.
Crossing guard Judy La Count stops traffic as a student crosses the street in 2022 near Roosevelt Elementary School on Doty Island in Neenah. The school has since closed.

NEENAH - Elementary school students within the Neenah Joint School District may attend a different school next fall, should plans go through for new school boundaries. For some families, this prompts concern.

The district will consider potential ways to shift its boundaries because some elementary schools are overcrowded while others have too much space. By eventually making these changes, the district hopes to better serve its students and staff, explained Chad Buboltz, assistant district administrator of leadership and engagement.

The distinct hosted virtual meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday not to decide on a plan, but to explain why changes are needed and to gather feedback.

Heres what we know at this point:

Changes will impact a portion  but not all  of the districts elementary students

Buboltz told The Post-Crescent that boundary shifts will not affect all of the districts elementary schools. It will definitely impact Lakeview Elementary, Horace Mann Elementary and Coolidge Elementary, and will likely affect Tullar and Hoover Elementary, he said.

The distribution of our students is the only thing that will change, Buboltz said. Our small class sizes wont change, how we staff our classrooms will not change, its a space issue and were simply redistributing students (so) we have ample space for flexibility to serve all students.

The districts transportation policy also will not be altered. Under the policy, students who live outside a 2-mile radius of their home school receive district-provided transportation. In Wednesday nights information session, Buboltz clarified this 2-mile radius is not a hard-and-fast rule, and there may be exceptions in areas deemed hazardous like high speed limit areas.

The district has eight elementary schools serving kindergarten through fourth grade students, and one charter school that serves 4K through sixth grade students.

Open space at some schools, and overcrowding at Lakeview, factors into change

Buboltz told The P-C the district has planned to revisit its elementary school boundaries for a few years, but recent developments necessitate change.

For example, multiple elementary schools have more space available as the district recently shifted fifth graders to the middle school and Horace Mann being a new, larger facility. However, Lakeview Elementary is currently overcapacity  it has seen consistent high enrollment and other classroom changes, such as an additional kindergarten class.

A possible plan may include redrawing the boundaries so that some of the students currently within Lakeview Elementarys boundaries could be shifted to Coolidge or Horace Mann, Buboltz said.

These changes are one step in a larger plan

In December 2020, the districts school board approved a multi-phase elementary facilities plan.

The first phase included closing Roosevelt Elementary School on Doty Island at the end of the 2022-23 school year, relocating Alliance Charter School from Roosevelt to what was formerly Wilson Elementary, and dispersing students formerly at Roosevelt and Wilson to the new Horace Mann Elementary. The presentation said the first phase was officially completed in September.

Now, the board is preparing to tackle Phase 2. In addition to revising elementary school boundaries, it will also consider ways to make all of its elementary schools three-section or four-section schools, or those in which have three or four classes in each grade level, respectively.

Currently, there are three two-section elementary schools: Hoover Elementary, Taft Elementary and Clayton Elementary.

Horace Mann Elementary currently operates as a three-section school, with the exception of having only two first grade classes. In Phase 2, the district will explore ways to transform it into a four-section school.

These changes, Buboltz told community members at Wednesdays meeting, will help the elementary schools have more equal access to resources, from targeted academic support to mental health support. He also said it can be used to retain and attract staff, as staff who currently serve smaller section schools are often required to travel between multiple buildings.

To view the percentage of each building that is currently used, and what will be used with these section changes next school year, visit bit.ly/sectionshifts.

More: Neenah school district sells Roosevelt Elementary School on Doty Island to CEO of Bergstrom Automotive

Related: Neenah approves sale of Shattuck to local developer, who plans to make apartments

Will Neenah close more schools?

Its not clear what will come of these two-section schools yet. Buboltz said in Wednesday nights information session that eventual closures are possible, but would not be part of this phase.

When we think about the fate of those three two-section schools, that might mean renovations to make them a three-section school, a transition in boundaries if we can accommodate those students elsewhere, theres a multitude of things that we could consider with those two-section schools, he told The Post-Crescent earlier Wednesday. But at this stage in our planning, there are no imminent plans to close those buildings as part of this redesign.

How did the community react?

Some parents raised concerns on Wednesday that students who currently live within close proximity to schools  specifically those who are able to enjoy walking to school  will be shifted to another school that may not be as convenient.

Buboltz responded that while the district understands this concern, the fact Coolidge, Horace Mann and Lakeview are in such close proximity to each other makes avoiding all such situations difficult.

For example, the Horace Mann building is physically located currently within the Coolidge boundary, so that requires some shifting, and that might mean students who currently walk across Horace Manns driveway to get to Coolidge may be shifted to Horace Mann or even Lakeview, he said. Because those boundaries havent been fully developed, I would hate to promise a definitive line of where students live versus where the new school is located  but we will continue to be mindful of those who live in close physical proximity to those buildings.

Others asked about how the district would fund changes to the elementary schools to expand the number of sections offered there. When asked if a referendum would be necessary, Buboltz said they have not determined if a referendum would be necessary and that they would first discuss with the community at what point they would transition to larger section facilities and how.

What's next in the process?

After gathering feedback from the staff and community, the district will begin exploring new boundary options and bring them to the public.

Buboltz hopes to get a boundary revision plan together and brought before the school board early next year. Those with questions are encouraged to contact Buboltz at cbuboltz@neenah.k12.wi.us. To view the current district boundary maps, visit bit.ly/neenahSDboundaries.

Madison Lammert is a Report for America corps member who covers child care and early education in Wisconsin at The Post-Crescent. Contact her at mlammert@gannett.com or 920-993-7108. Follow on Twitter @MadisonLammert0.

You can directly support her work with a tax-deductible donation online at http://bit.ly/Appleton_RFA or by check made out to The GroundTruth Project with subject line Report for America Post Crescent Campaign. Address: The GroundTruth Project, Lockbox Services, 9450 SW Gemini Drive, PMB 46837, Beaverton, Oregon 97008-7105.

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM: Our subscribers make this coverage possible. Click to see The Post-Crescent's special offers at postcrescent.com/subscribe and download our app on the App Store or Google Play.

This article originally appeared on Appleton Post-Crescent: Neenah Joint School District will shift its elementary boundaries
By Felix Light

TBILISI (Reuters) -Armenia hopes to conclude a peace agreement with Azerbaijan in the coming months and establish diplomatic relations with it, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Thursday.

After decades of enmity between Baku and Yerevan, Azerbaijan last month retook the contested region of Nagorno-Karabakh in a lightning offensive, prompting the mass exodus of most of its 120,000 ethnic Armenians to neighbouring Armenia.

Since then, the two South Caucasus countries have both declared a willingness to sign a peace deal, though progress has been fitful and regular border skirmishes have continued.

"In the coming months (we hope) we shall sign with Azerbaijan an agreement on peace and the establishment of diplomatic relations," Pashinyan said through an interpreter at a forum in Tbilisi also attended by the prime ministers of Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov told the forum that Baku had been committed to peace and the restoration of transport links with Armenia since 2020, but that progress hinged on Yerevan's willingness to act.

Karabakh, regarded internationally as part of Azerbaijan, had been ruled by breakaway ethnic Armenians since the breakup of the Soviet Union in the 1990s until last month.

Pashinyan also said on Thursday that Armenia hopes to open its border with Turkey, a close ally of Azerbaijan, to citizens of third countries and holders of diplomatic passports.

That frontier has been closed since 1993, when Turkey cut off relations with Armenia as war raged between Yerevan and Baku over Nagorno-Karabakh. Turkey has declined to reopen the border without a peace settlement between Yerevan and Baku.

Separately, the Kremlin said on Thursday it hoped that Armenian authorities would clarify comments made by Pashinyan in an interview with the Wall Street Journal that he saw no advantage in retaining Russian military bases in Armenia.

According to a full transcript of the interview published by Armenian state news agency Armenpress on Thursday, Pashinyan also said that Yerevan was "not discussing" calling on Russia to remove its troops from Armenia.

Russia has several military facilities in Christian Armenia, which remains a treaty ally of Moscow. Relations have soured in recent months, with Armenia accusing Moscow of failing to support it against mainly Muslim Azerbaijan, with which Russia is also allied.

In its turn, Moscow has accused Pashinyan of neglecting Armenia's traditional close ties with Russia and pivoting increasingly towards the West.

(Reporting by Felix LightEditing by Gareth Jones)
(CNN)  Herbert Bertie Bowman, the longest-serving African-American congressional staffer in history who worked on Capitol Hill for more than 60 years, died Wednesday, according to a spokesperson for the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. He was 92.

According to his autobiography Step by Step, at 13, Bowman imagined Washington, DC could offer him a different path than his South Carolina family farm. He fantasized about a life up the road, where he could be lost in a bustling city. After a chance meeting with the late Democratic Sen. Burnet Maybank of South Carolina, his fantasy became an obsession, he wrote.

Bowman forged friendships with presidents, worked his way from janitorial staff to the Senate floor and made history with the longevity of his unprecedented career, according to his autobiography. From stair-sweeping, Bowman climbed the staff ranks, eventually finding a home in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee  one of the most powerful committees within Congress  in the 1960s as a clerk.

Bowman first announced his retirement from the committee in 1990, though he told C-Span he continued to work on and off the payroll. But Bowman didnt retire for long. When former Sen. Jesse Helms, a North Carolina Republican, assumed the chair of the committee, he told Bowman he wanted him to return as his hearing coordinator, Bowman told C-Span in 2008.

Bertie Bowman in 2011. - Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call/Getty Images

Asked by C-Span how he could consider lawmakers who opposed civil rights legislation as friends, Bowman said, Anytime you have someone thats going to do things for you or ready to help you when youre in need and stick by, thats one reason why I call them my friend.

Bowman wrote in his memoir that he never discussed with Senator Helms the terrible things he said about Blacks.

Bowmans unwavering dedication and kindness earned him praise in 2019 from former President Bill Clinton, who reminisced to CBS about Bowman, his former supervisor and then the only African American Senate Foreign Relations Committee staff member, according to Clintons foreword in Bowmans autobiography.

Bowman oversaw a college-aged Clinton when he worked as a messenger for then- Arkansas Democratic Sen. William Fulbright, Bowman told C-Span. Bowman was exactly the kind of person youd want to take you under his wing, if youre a 20-year-old student just working your first job in Washington, Clinton said in a 2019 interview with CBS.

From his humble beginnings as a poor farm boy in the segregated South to his years as a junior member of the Senate janitorial staff to his tenure as hearing coordinator for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he epitomizes the kind of citizen that makes this country great, Clinton wrote in the foreword of Bowmans biography.

This is the American dream, Bowman told C-Span in 2008, sitting in an empty Senate Foreign Relations meeting room, living the American dream, that Im right here  Senator Helms always had us say, You know, bud, neither of us made us through college, but here we are.

Sen. John Kerry talks with committee staffer Bertie Bowman as US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has a laugh before Kerry's confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to become the next Secretary of State in the Hart Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill January 24, 2013 in Washington, DC. - Mark Wilson/Getty Images

President Joe Biden, a former senator on and chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, wrote that Bowmans autobiography Step by Step, was a great American story by a frontline witness to history.

In 2019, the United States Senate Federal Credit Union named their headquarters after Bowman, a former chairman of the USSFCU and the boards longest-serving member. That same year, an 88-year-old Bowman told CBS he had no plans of retiring.

USSFCU CEO and President Timothy Anderson told CNN, Bowman was like a second father to him.

I am the CEO of this organization today, in large part because of Bertie as a mentor, Anderson said. He attributed Berties success to a motto he often shared: Work hard, be true to yourself, take responsibility, have a positive outlook and then expect the best from people.

Anderson said that just before his death, Bowman asked for his funeral procession to pass the headquarters named after him. He walked the halls with presidents and senators, but Bertie treated everyone the same  and he employed us to do the same, Anderson said, adding Bowman didnt care about title.

In 2020, Bowman was inducted into the African American Credit Union Hall of Fame by the African-American Credit Union Coalition.

Foreign Relations Chairman Ben Cardin, a Maryland Democrat, described Bowman on Thursday as the very embodiment of the American Dream and will continue to inspire new generations of public servants to pick up where he left off.

He imprinted himself on the work and lives of every member that had the privilege to serve on our Committee across both sides of the aisle, and did so with honor, decency, and kindness, Cardin said in a statement.

Democratic Sen. Chris Coons of Delaware, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Bertie wasnt just a fixture of so many Foreign Relations hearings I attended  he was a warm, funny, and friendly presence in the Senate. Ill miss him.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A Colorado judge on Wednesday denied the latest attempt by former President Donald Trump to dismiss a lawsuit seeking to remove him from the states 2024 ballot because of his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack.

The decision comes just days before a trial on Trumps eligibility for the ballot is expected to begin.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of six voters in Denver district court last month, says Trump should be disqualified from running in future elections under Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which states no person shall hold any office if they engaged in insurrection or rebellion after having taken an oath to support the Constitution. It argues that Trump violated his oath as president through his connection to the Capitol attack.

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington and several law firms filed the lawsuit on behalf of the six voters  four Republicans and two unaffiliated.

In a 24-page ruling, Colorado District Judge Sarah Wallace pushed back on Trumps argument that Congress, not courts, should handle questions related to his ballot eligibility. She also sided against Trumps claim that state election officials lack the power to enforce Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.

Wallace noted that that clause clearly gives Congress the ability to remove a constitutional disability should a person be disqualified under the provision, but it says nothing regarding what government body would adjudicate or determine such disability in the first instance.

The Court notes, however, it would be strange for Congress to be the only entity that is empowered to determine the disability and then also the entity that is empowered to remove it, Wallace wrote.

Wallace also wrote that the courts ruling holds that states can, and have, applied Section 3 pursuant to state statutes without federal enforcement legislation.

The court will convene Monday to consider whether there is any evidence or argument at trial that provides the Court with additional guidance on whether the issue of presidential eligibility has been delegated to the United States Congress, Wallace wrote.

The Trump campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump has repeatedly denied wrongdoing in his attempts to overturn the 2020 election and his role in the Capitol attack. He previously brushed off the effort in Colorado to bar him from the ballot under the 14th Amendment, decrying it as nonsense and election interference.

Wallaces ruling Wednesday comes after Chief U.S. District Judge Philip A. Brimmer denied Trumps request to move the Colorado ballot case to federal court.

In a four-page order, Brimmer sent the lawsuit back to the same state court in Denver County where it was filed on behalf of the group of voters.

Brimmer, who was nominated by President George W. Bush, said Trump had not properly served Colorado's Democratic secretary of state, Jena Griswold, or gained her consent to move the case. For those reasons, he said, he found Trump's effort to move the case "defective."
By Gabriela Baczynska and Marine Strauss

BRUSSELS (Reuters) -The leaders of Estonia and Luxembourg on Tuesday criticised their European Union peer, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban over his recent encounter with Russia's Vladimir Putin, which was held to great pomp as Moscow wages a war against Ukraine.

Arriving at a summit of the EU's 27 national leaders in Brussels, Orban was asked about his meeting with Putin, held this month in China despite EU efforts to isolate Russia over the war.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas said she would raise the issue with Orban, and Luxembourg's Xavier Bettel said meeting Putin amounted to "showing the middle finger" to Ukrainians.

Orban said he was "proud" of his strategy.

"We would like to do everything to have peace. Therefore we keep open all the communication lines to the Russians, otherwise there will be no chance for peace," he told reporters.

The West has extended billions of euros' worth of financial and military aid to Ukraine and imposed rounds of economic sanctions on Russia since Moscow launched a full-scale invasion on Ukraine in February 2022.

But Orban has cultivated much closer ties with Moscow than his EU peers and has regularly spoken against the sanctions and threatened the block another 50 billion euros in support promised to Ukraine through 2027.

Speaking on her arrival at the same gathering in Brussels, Estonia's Kallas reiterated her dismay at Orban shaking hands with Putin whom she called a war criminal, wanted by the International Criminal Court.

"I'm just asking: Why? Why is this really necessary?," Kallas told reporters. "I wouldn't want to be in the same picture with such a guy."

Asked about Orban's encounter with Putin, Bettel said: "It is really showing the middle finger to a country that suffers daily under Russian missiles and bombs."

(Reporting by Gabriela Baczynska, Marine Strauss, Jan Strupczewski; Editing by Hugh Lawson and David Gregorio)
Editors note: This story has been updated to correct the state Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal (Wash.) represents. We regret the error.

The House approved a resolution backing Israel and condemning Hamas on Wednesday, the first piece of legislation to clear the lower chamber in more than three weeks because of the extended Speaker stalemate.

The legislation, which spans four pages, was the first measure approved under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), who clinched the gavel hours before the chamber voted on the resolution. He succeeded former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) in the position after the California Republican was ousted from the top job earlier this month.

The House approved the resolution in a 412-10-6 vote, a strong show of support for Israel after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on the U.S. ally Oct. 7, massacring more than 1,000 civilians in the south of the country, kidnapping more than 200 and raining thousands of rockets down across the country.

The resolution declares that the House stands with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists and reaffirms Israels right to self-defense. It also condemns Hamas brutal war against Israel and calls on the U.S.-designated terrorist group to immediately cease these violent attacks and safely release all living hostages and return the bodies of deceased hostages.

Hamas has so far released four hostages, with an estimated 220 people kidnapped from Israel still in captivity in the Gaza Strip. Americans and other nationalities are believed to be among them. Israel and the U.S. have not confirmed that any hostages have been killed, saying any claims by Hamas cannot be trusted.

Wednesdays resolution was a long time coming.

Lawmakers in both parties and chambers have spoken about their desire to move a resolution supporting Israel since Hamas launched its attack earlier this month, but the decision by eight House Republicans and Democrats to vote to oust McCarthy plunged the chamber into a standstill, leaving members unable to move such a measure.

The House was unable to conduct legislative business without a permanent Speaker in place.

Johnson spoke to that dynamic Wednesday.

The country demands strong leadership of this body, and we must not waver. Our nations greatest ally in the Middle East is under attack. The first bill that Im gonna bring to this floor in just a little while will be in support of our dear friend Israel, Johnson said in the House chamber after winning the gavel. And were overdue in getting that done.

Were going to show not only Israel, but the entire world, that the barbarism of Hamas that we have all seen play out on our television screens and wretched and wrong, and were gonna stand for the food in that conflict, he added.

The Houses action in support of Israel is unlikely to end with Wednesdays resolution.

Last week, the White House unveiled a roughly $100 billion supplemental request that includes funds for Israel, Ukraine, U.S. border security and allies in the Indo-Pacific region. The package asks for $14 billion for Israel, roughly $61 billion for Ukraine, almost $14 billion for personnel and operations at the U.S.-Mexico border, $10 billion in humanitarian aid and $2 billion for Indo-Pacific security assistance.

The supplemental has received an icy reception from some Republicans, who are taking issue with the linking of aid for Israel and Ukraine. Support for Kyiv has become a polarizing topic in the House GOP conference, as more GOP lawmakers call for aid to be curtailed.

Biden has pledged U.S. support to Israel in its declaration of war against Hamas, and made note of his supplemental request in a statement following Johnsons election as Speaker.

While House Republicans spent the last 22 days determining who would lead their conference, I have worked on those pressing issues, proposing a historic supplemental funding package that advances our bipartisan national security interests in Israel and Ukraine, secures our border, and invests in the American people. These priorities have been endorsed by leaders in both parties, Biden wrote.

We need to move swiftly to address our national security needs and to avoid a shutdown in 22 days. Even though we have real disagreements about important issues, there should be mutual effort to find common ground wherever we can, he added.

The House did not unanimously clear the resolution Wednesday.

Nine Democrats opposed the resolution: Reps. Jamaal Bowman (N.Y.), Andre Carson (Ind.), Cori Bush (Mo.), Al Green (Texas), Summer Lee (Pa.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (N.Y.), Ilhan Omar (Minn.), Delia Ramirez (Ill.) and Rashida Tlaib (Mich.). Republican Rep. Thomas Massie (Ky.) joined them.

Six other Democrats voted present on the resolution: Reps. Greg Casar (Texas), Joaquin Castro (Texas), Nydia Velazquez (N.Y.), Ayanna Pressley (Mass.), Jesus Chuy Garcia (Ill.) and Pramila Jayapal (Wash.).

Massie announced on X ahead of the vote that he would oppose the measure despite condemning the barbaric attack on Israel and affirming Israels right to defend itself in part because it urges the full enforcement of U.S. sanction against Iran to prevent the countrys funding of terrorist groups, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The prison inmate who attacked Paul Flores, convicted killer of Kristin Smart, was serving a life term for murdering another notorious inmate in 2021, the serial killer known as the I-5 Strangler, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation told The Tribune.

The attack left Flores with a neck injury that sent him to the hospital for two days.

On Aug. 23 at around 10 a.m. in the Pleasant Valley State Prison yard, agency said, staff saw Flores fall to the ground between the recreational yard and the medical clinic. Staff immediately ordered everyone to get down, and medical staff immediately responded.

At the time, Harold Mesick, Flores lawyer, told The Tribune that Flores had been stabbed in the side of the neck.

Paul Flores takes a sip of water during the trial against him for the 1996 murder of Kristin Smart in the Monterey County Superior Court in Salinas on Aug. 16, 2022.

Jason Budrow, 43, was found nearby with a manufactured weapon, the corrections department said. He is suspected of the attempted murder of Flores.

Budrow is serving two life sentences without the possibility of parole for two separate murders, the first that sent him to prison 12 years ago and the second once he was already behind bars.

The first murder conviction was in 2011, and was his second strike under Californias Three Strikes law. He was convicted of strangling and murdering his girlfriend at the time in Riverside County.

About a decade later in March 2021, CDCR said, Budrow strangled and killed Roger Reece Kibbe, a fellow inmate at Mule Creek State Prison.

Kibbe was known as the serial rapist and killer who was dubbed the I-5 Strangler. He was serving six consecutive life-without-parole sentences for six counts of first-degree murder, on top of an earlier life-with-parole murder sentence.

The so-called I-5 Strangler Roger Reece Kibbe appears in court with San Joaquin County Deputy Public Defender Miriam Lyell, right and Jan Karowsky, in September 2009. Kibbe, 81, was strangled to death in his cell at Mule Creek State Prison in March 2021. Another inmate, Jason Budrow, was later convicted in the killing.

Budrow was convicted and sentenced to his second life-without-parole sentence in April 2022, CDCR said.

In a letter sent to the San Jose Mercury News, Budrow admitted to killing Kibbe as punishment for the I-5 Stranglers murders.

CDCR did not disclose whether they believe Budrow had a motive for the alleged attack on Flores.

After the stabbing, Flores was transported to an outside hospital in serious condition. His condition improved to fair by the next day, and he returned to the Coalinga prison on Aug. 25.

Flores is expected to make a full recovery, his lawyer said.

Flores is currently serving a 25-years-to-life sentence for the murder of Smart, the Cal Poly student who went missing over Memorial Day weekend in 1996 and has never been found.

Flores is seeking to overturn his conviction but has yet to file his appellate brief with the court.

Who was the I-5 Strangler?

In 1991, Kibbe was convicted on his first count of murder for strangling 17-year-old Darcie Frankenpohl, a runaway from Seattle living in West Sacramento, in 1987, The Sacramento Bee reported. He left her naked body at Echo Summit.

He was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the murder. Kibbe was serving a jail term in Sacramento County for assault and attempted kidnap of a prostitute at the time of his arrest.

It wouldnt be the first killing tied to the man who became known as the I-5 Strangler.

Detectives had long suspected Kibbe of murdering several other women. DNA and other crime scene evidence resubmitted in the early 2000s eventually linked Kibbe to six more murders dating back to the 1970s.

In 2008, a new San Joaquin County indictment accused him of the murders of Lou Ellen Burleigh in 1977 and the deaths of Barbara Ann Scott, Stephanie Brown, Charmaine Sabrah, Katherine Kelly Quinones and Lora Heedrick  all in 1986.

In 2009, Kibbe pleaded guilty to the new murder counts with special enhancements for rape and kidnapping.

In 2021, detectives told The Sacramento Bee they believe Kibbe may have killed several more victims in the gap between his first known murder in 1977 and his killing spree from 1986-1987.
Trump takes the stand in courtroom sketch

A New York judge fined Donald Trump $10,000 (8,250) over remarks he had made to the press earlier on Wednesday.

Mr Trump had accused the judge and the person "sitting alongside him" of being "very partisan".

Judge Arthur Engoron found those comments violated a gag order against speaking about court staff during his civil trial for business fraud.

In an unscheduled hearing, Judge Engoran called the former president to the stand.

The judge asked Mr Trump to explain who he was referring to when he told the press that Mr Engoron was a "very partisan judge, with a person who is very partisan sitting alongside him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is."

"You and Cohen," Mr Trump replied, referring to his former lawyer Michael Cohen, who was testifying against him that day

"Are you sure you didn't mean the person" sitting to his side, Judge Engoron asked, meaning his clerk.

"Yes, I'm sure," Mr Trump said.

"As the trier of fact, I find the witness is not credible," Judge Engonon said, before allowing Mr Trump to step down.

The tense exchange took place in the midst of a high-stakes civil trial that could see Mr Trump lose some of his most iconic real-estate assets, and his ability to lead the organisation that he founded in the state of New York. Judge Engoron had previously ruled the Trump Organization committed fraud, and the current trial is focused on additional charges.

The former president was already under a gag order from Mr Engoron because he had posted disparaging comments about the same clerk in early October. When he had discovered the comments were still up on Mr Trump's campaign website several days later, Mr Engoron had issued a $5,000 fine and a warning to Mr Trump.

The judge saw Mr Trump's comments today as a further attack on this clerk.

Mr Trump's lawyers, Chris Kise and Alina Habba, attempted to dissuade the bench, arguing Mr Trump was actually referring to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, who was on the witness stand that day.

Ms Habba at one point implied the judge was being unfair to their side.

The "influence happening from the bench is completely inappropriate," she said.

While Judge Engoron briefly reconsidered his decision, Mr Trump's lawyers were ultimately unsuccessful and the fine was issued, with the judge warning the next violation would incur a more serious punishment.

"Don't do it again or it will be worse," he said.

While Mr Trump has been subdued in his court appearances, letting his lawyers do most of the arguing, he has relentlessly attacked the judges and other players in his various criminal and civil trials this year in social media and public remarks.

He has called Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is prosecuting him for his attempts to overturn the election results in the state of Georgia, a "rabid partisan" and ran an ad that claimed she had a relationship with a gang member she was prosecuting.

In the federal election interference case, Trump has called the presiding judge, Tanya Chutkan, a "biased, Trump Hating Judge" on social media. Judge Chutkin issued a gag order of her own on 16 October forbidding Mr Trump from disparaging court staff, witnesses, and prosecutors involved in that case. The American Civil Liberties Union has called her gag order "unconstitutional".

Trump has also called Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, who is pursuing yet another case against him, a "Racist in Reverse".

The fines issued by Mr Engoron are the most significant rebuke to Mr Trump's conduct yet. But it remains to be seen whether Mr Trump, who has used these court appearances to fundraise and bolster support among his voting base, will change his strategy.
SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea, Japan and the United States strongly condemned the supply of arms and military equipment by North Korea to Russia and said they had confirmed "several" deliveries of such weapons, a joint statement issued on Thursday said.

Russia and North Korea have denied the transfer of arms from the North for use in Russia's war against Ukraine amid reports that Washington and researchers said showed movement of vessels carrying containers likely with weapons between the two countries' ports.

While it was not possible to confirm the contents of the shipments, reports said containers from the North were later seen delivered to a Russian munitions storage facility near the border with Ukraine.

"The Republic of Korea, United States, and Japan strongly condemn the provision of military equipment and munitions by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Russian Federation for use against the government and people of Ukraine," the statement said.

The Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea is North Korea's official name.

"Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression," the statement issued by the foreign ministers of the three countries said.

North Korea is seeking military assistance from Russia to advance its own military capabilities in return for its arms support for Moscow, it said.

"We are monitoring closely for any materials that Russia provides to the DPRK in support of Pyongyangs military objectives," it said, adding any arms transaction with North Korea violated multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions that Moscow itself voted for.

North Korea and Russia pledged closer military cooperation when their leaders met in September in Russia's far east. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this month and discussed implementing the agreements made at the summit.

(Reporting by Jack Kim; Editing by Ed Davies)
A manhunt is now entering its sixteenth hour to catch the armed and dangerous suspect wanted in connection to two mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, that left 18 people dead and 13 injured.

A gunman opened fire in the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and then the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant at around 7pm on Wednesday night. Terrifying surveillance footage grabs showed the shooter armed with a rifle. The first victims have been named by family members.

An intensive manhunt is underway across the state for 40-year-old Robert Card, formally identified as the suspect in the now active homicide investigation during a press conference on Thursday morning.

Mr Card is a member of the US Army Reserves and a certified firearms instructor, who officials said had recently made threats to carry out a shooting at a National Guard facility and had reported mental health issues, including hearing voices.

His whereabouts are currently unknown though his car  a 2013 white Subaru  was located at a boatslip in the town of Lisbon.

Residents in both Lewiston and Lisbon have been urged to shelter in place.

Warning: Disturbing images

Key points

Manhunt for Robert Card  suspect in Maine shootings

Ten-year-old girl injured in Maine bowling alley shooting asks heartbreaking question

Robert Cards ties to US military revealed

Card threatened to shoot up National Guard base and was hearing voices: police

Police release images of suspect brandishing rifle

Residents urged to shelter in place in Lewiston, Lisbon and Bowdoin

In pictures: Police continue to hunt for suspect in Maine mass shooting

06:30 , Namita Singh

Law Enforcement officials gather near a home as they prepare to search it for the suspect in connection with two mass shootings on 26 October 2023 (Getty Images)

Law Enforcement officials search an area for a suspect in connection with two mass shootings on 26 October 2023 in Bowdoin, Maine (Getty Images)

Law enforcement are seen outside the home of suspect Robert Cards father and brother in Bowdoin, Maine on 26 October 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Law enforcement are seen outside the home of suspect Robert Cards father and brother in Bowdoin, Maine on 26 October 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Lewiston Public Schools to remain shut on Friday

06:00 , Namita Singh

Lewiston Public Schools will be closed on Friday for the second day in a row as the suspect in Wednesday nights mass shooting remains at large.

We remain in a shelter in place situation, said Superintendent Jake Langlais in a post on the districts website. We will not open buildings or run bus transportation.

Law enforcement are seen outside the home of suspect Robert Cards father and brother in Bowdoin, Maine on 26 October 2023 (AFP via Getty Images)

Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting

05:30 , Namita Singh

On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, is wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.

Heres what we know so far about the accused gunman:

Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting

New House Speaker slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting

04:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing criticism after simply offering prayers following the mass shooting in Maine as he responded to his first major crisis as a top-ranking elected official.

After calling it a horrific tragedy, heres what he said to the media on Thursday morning:

This is a dark time in America, we have a lot of problems and were really, really hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate in a time like this, that the evil can end and this senseless violence can stop. And so thats thats the statement this morning on behalf of the entire House of Representatives. Everyone wants this to end and Ill leave it there.

Speaker Mike Johnson slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting

Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting

04:35 , Namita Singh

The father of a bar manager in Lewiston identified his son as one of the 18 victims who died in Wednesdays shooting in Maine.

Leroy Walker, a city council member in Auburn, Maine, told NBC News that state police had confirmed his son Joseph Walker had been killed when a gunman opened fire at two locations in Lewiston, including Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, where he was the bar manager.

A manhunt is underway for the armed and dangerous gunman who opened fire at Schemengees bar and in the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley around 7pm on Wednesday night, which left 18 people dead and 13 injured.

Report:

Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting

Bar manager identified among Lewiston dead

04:15 , Oliver O'Connell

The father of a bar manager in Lewiston identified his son as one of the 18 victims who died in Wednesdays shooting in Maine.

Leroy Walker, a city council member in Auburn, Maine, told NBC News that state police had confirmed his son Joseph Walker had been killed when a gunman opened fire at two locations in Lewiston, including Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, where he was the bar manager.

Many people in the community have been waiting on edge to hear whether or not their loved ones have been identified as victims in the shooting.

It took over 14 hours for Mr Walker to be notified about his son, and he said his family was suffering and dying in a nightmare we dont understand.

None of us slept, we were up all night, he said. We didnt know where to go, who to run to. They didnt notify any of us.

Andrea Cavallier reports.

Lewiston bar manager identified among 18 victims of Maine shooting

Heavily armed police surround home in search for Maine shooting suspect

04:04 , Namita Singh

Heavily armed police surrounded a home on Thursday as they searched for a US Army reservist who authorities say killed 18 people and wounded 13 in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, police shouted through a megaphone outside the home owned by suspect Robert Cards relative near the town of Bowdoin.

Dozens of law enforcement officials had descended on the property, with extended announcements calling for Mr Card and anyone in the home to come out into the driveway.

In most instances when police execute warrants - even for suspects wanted for violent crimes - they move quickly to enter the home.

The announcements that are being heard over a loudspeaker are standard search warrant announcements when executing a warrant to ensure the safety of all involved, state police spokesperson Shannon Moss said.

It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search.

Map: Where the shootings took place and area under shelter-in-place order

03:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Heres where the incidents unfolded on Wednesday night:

Map of Maine shootings as shelter in place ordered amid manhunt

White House calls on new Speaker to find common ground on gun control in wake of Maine tragedy

02:45 , Oliver O'Connell

At todays White House press conference, press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre gave the following statement ahead of questions from the press corps.

I wanted to start with a word about the horrific news out of Lewiston, Maine last night, where we saw another tragic shooting that has taken at least 18 lives, injured many others and left countless people in grief, shock and trauma.

As the President said in a statement earlier today, he and the First Lady are praying for the victims and their families for those still fighting for their lives. And for the families, survivors and community members reeling from this latest act of gun violence. And importantly, we continue to urge all residents to heed the warnings and guidance of local officials and federal law enforcement are on the ground to assist with the response.

During the state dinner last night, the President was informed and stepped out to receive an initial briefing of the shooting. Later he stepped out to speak with Maine governor Janet Mills as well as senators Collins and King and Congressman Jared Golden. He pledged full federal support in the wake of this horrific tragedy. This morning the President received another briefing on the shooting from senior advisors and he ordered that the US flag be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds out of respect for all the victims as well. So I want to echo the Presidents sentiments on this strategy, tragedy and the epidemic of gun violence in general. This is not normal. We cannot accept this. There have been literally hundreds of mass shootings in the last year alone, leaving empty seats at dinner tables across the country and leaving those who survive these heinous acts, both physically and mentally. scarred.

And while we have made progress since the President signed the bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law, much more, much more must be done.

And the president has been clear that executive action alone is just not enough.

As the vice president who oversees the newly established office of gun violence and prevention  stated during todays state lunch, and I know many of you watched very closely as well, and she said it doesnt have to be this way.

As our friends in Australia have demonstrated. Again, it does not have to be this way. Its within Congresss power to pass legislation that will make our streets safer that will make our community safer that will make our schools safer.

The house has a new speaker who he said hes ready to get to work and to find common ground. Now is the time, now is the time to find common ground. Lets work together to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. lets work together to enact universal background checks, require safe storage of guns, and keep guns out of the hands of criminals and dangerous individuals who have no business being armed with a weapon of war.

The president will continue to do everything in his power to protect the American people, to protect our communities to protect our children, and we urge, we urge congressional Republicans to come to the table to come to the table. If there truly is common ground, at this time.

Sen. Susan Collins stands firm on assault weapons stance after Maine mass shooting

02:23 , Graeme Massie

Earlier: Murder warrant issued as victims identified

02:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A warrant has been issued for Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card, 40, after a car that was registered to him was located in a boat landing in Maine.

Maine State Police said at Thursdays press conference that 18 people were left dead after a mass shooting that began at a bowling alley called Just-in-Time Recreation in Lewiston on Wednesday night and extended to Schemengees Bar and Grill, just four miles away. It marked Americas deadliest mass shooting this year.

Despite the death toll of 18, Maine State Police Colonel William Ross said that Mr Card faces an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder because 10 people have yet to be identified. The number of counts will increase as those identifications are made.

Kelly Rissman reports.

Murder warrant issued for Maine shooting suspect after car abandoned by river

Rep. Jared Golden U-turns on assault rifles, calls for ban from congress

01:44 , Graeme Massie

How the 2024 candidates reacted to Maine shooting

01:31 , Graeme Massie

Candidates seeking the White House in 2024 offered commentary about gun violence in America after 18 people were killed in a mass shooting in Maine.

Watch: Maine state rep says streets eerily quiet amid shelter-in-place order

01:15 , Oliver O'Connell

WATCH: A shelter in place order is extended for the Lewiston, Maine area as a manhunt continues for the gunman that killed at least 18 people at a bar and a bowling alley.



State Rep. Kristen Cloutier (D-Lewiston): It is eerily quiet on the streets of Lewiston today. pic.twitter.com/e5aOqrBPfH  Meet the Press (@MeetThePress) October 26, 2023

Maine police say they are executing warrant

01:08 , Graeme Massie

Law enforcement officials are currently on Meadow Road in Bowdoin to execute several search warrants. The announcements being heard over a loud speaker are standard search warrant announcements when executing a warrant to ensure the safety of all involved, said Maine State Police on Thursday evening.

Maine officials say they dont know if Card in house

01:00 , Graeme Massie

A Maine Department of Public Safety spokesperson, Shannon Moss, told CNN that law enforcement is not positive Robert Card is in this house, and that police were simply doing our due diligence.

Maine Gun Safety Coalition calls for assault weapons ban

00:55 , Oliver O'Connell

Camilla Shannon, board chair of the Maine Gun Safety Coalition, released the following statement:

The Maine Gun Safety Coalition grieves with the families and friends who lost loved ones in the mass shooting last night. We watched in horror as the tragedy in Lewiston, Maine happened before our eyes  the result of our weak gun laws. We call on our elected officials tonight to stop bowing to the gun lobby and look squarely at the face of what has happened in Maines second largest city. At a minimum, the Maine Gun Safety Coalition believes an assault weapons ban is necessary to try to prevent more such tragedies in our state.

Police outside Cards house demanding he comes out

00:43 , Graeme Massie

Police demanding Robert Card come out of Maine home (CNN)

Stunned relative of Robert Card speaks out

00:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Cards sister-in-law has added some colour to the reports of the 40-year-olds current state of mind.

After US Army reservist Mr Card was accused of killing 18 people on Wednesday night  and while a manhunt for the Bowdoin resident remains underway  Karen Card spoke out about her brother-in-law toThe Daily Beast.

Ms Card, who is married to the suspects brother, said that she has known the suspect her whole life.

He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know, she said on Thursday.

But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle.

Robert Cards ties to Maine shooting sites revealed by stunned relative

Police appear to be making arrest at Robert Cards home

00:21 , Graeme Massie

CNN reporting that their crew was ordered to turn off lights, while officers could be heard shouting ...under arrest come out with your hands up.

Officers could be heard shouting for someone to come out and walk to the front of the property and they ordered a person inside to come out of the house with nothing in their hands and that their safety could be guaranteed.

Susan Collins says high capacity magazines should be banned

00:15 , Graeme Massie

Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, told a news conference on Thursday evening that it is more important that we ban very high-capacity magazines rather than assault-style weapons.

I think that would have more input and more effectiveness, said Ms Collins.

Republican US Senator Susan Collins addresses shooting in Maine (WGME)

Maine passed a law to try to prevent mass shootings. Some say more is needed after Lewiston killings

00:05 , AP

Barely four years before a gunmans deadly rampage in Maine, a state that is staunchly protective of gun rights, the governor signed a law aimed at preventing a mass shooting like the one Wednesday night that claimed at least 18 lives.

It was called a yellow flag law, different from the red flag laws cropping up in other states to seize weapons from gun owners viewed as a threat. In a sign of the pro-Second Amendment mindset in Maine, a gun-rights group helped write the law, and critics said that, while it was a first step toward stronger gun safety measures, the state could save more lives by doing more  like passing a red flag law.

The yellow flag law and permissive gun measures in Maine are coming under greater scrutiny in the aftermath of a massacre that authorities say was carried out by a man who was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this past summer and had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up a military base.

It was not clear whether anyone had used the yellow flag law in the suspects case, but gun-control advocates seized on the tragedy Thursday to blame the death of 18 people in the shooting as a product of weak gun laws.

Read more...

Congressman says shooting has changed his mind on assault rifles

23:50 , Graeme Massie

US Rep Jared Golden, a Democrat who represents Lewiston, told a press conference that his opposition to a ban on assault weapons had been a mistake and he had changed his mind on the issue.

I have opposed calls to ban deadly weapons of war like the assault rifle used to carry out this crime, Mr Golden said.

The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure, he said. Which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles like the one used by the sick perpetrator of this mass killing.

Mr Golden asked for the forgiveness of those who had lost loved ones in the mass shooting and his constituents.

A childrens party, an Army Reservist and 18 dead: What we know so far...

23:45 , Oliver O'Connell

Children were playing games at a party in a bowling alley.

Locals were drinking and dining at a restaurant.

It was by all accounts a normal Wednesday night  until it was rocked by the latest horrific act of gun violence in America.

A gunman entered two locations in the town of Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night and opened fire, killing 18 people and injuring 13 others.

Now, a manhunt is underway to catch Robert Card  the armed and dangerous suspect wanted in connection to the shootings.

Residents across Maine are hunkering down in their homes and businesses as the search continues for the US Army Reserve firearms instructor who had allegedly threatened to shoot up a National Guard post and had recently complained about hearing voices.

Heres what we know so far:

Maine mass shooting: What we know after 18 killed in Lewiston

Deaf event caught up in Lewiston bar shooting

23:20 , Oliver O'Connell

American Deaf Cornhole (ADC) has sent its deepest condolences to families in Maine, after some of its members were reportedly caught up in the Maine shootings on Wednesday evening.

The organisation, which puts on tournaments of the beanbag game across the country for the Deaf community, urged its members to come together and support one another in the wake of the tragedy.

Eighteen people were killed and 13 left injured after a gunman opened fire at two locations  Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar & Grille  in the city of Lewiston on Wednesday night.

It was reported that an event organised by ADC had been going on in Schemengees at the time of the attack.

Mike Bedigan reports.

Deaf cornhole event caught up in deadly Maine shooting

US Senator Susan Collins calls it dark day for Maine

23:12 , Graeme Massie

This heinous attack, which has robbed the lives of at least 18 Mainers and injured so many more, the worst mass shooting that the state of Maine has ever experienced  and could ever imagine, Senator Collins said at a news conference on Thursday evening.

Robert Card: Everything we know about the suspect in the Maine mass shooting

23:03 , Oliver O'Connell

On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar. Police scrambled to find the shooter, urging residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old Sgt 1st class in the Army Reserve, is wanted as a suspect in the shootings that left 18 dead and 13 others injured.

Heres what we know so far about the accused gunman:

Robert Card: What we know about suspect in Maine mass shooting

22:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Current scene as FBI operation unfolds trying to track down Robert Card in Maine after 18 shot dead in Lewiston pic.twitter.com/68PT4ZDdJv  Dan Rivers (@danriversitv) October 26, 2023

Suspect planned shooting in advance, had hiding spots ready, report says

22:44 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox News reports:

Two senior law enforcement sources tell Fox News that the Lewiston, Maine shooting suspect, Robert Card, planned Wednesday night's shooting well in advance and had several hiding spots ready for him to go to.

The sources added that an aircraft with heat-sensing technology is flying above the search area.

According to the sources, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is trying to locate the serial number for the weapon used by Card, and is also trying to locate other guns which he may have obtained legally or illegally. With Card's intense firearm training, the search is more difficult.

Officials with the Department of Justice are also working quickly to discover a motive and trying to determine if the shooting can be classified as a form of domestic terrorism or a hate crime.

Full story: Standoff outside Maine shooting suspect Robert Cards home

22:38 , Oliver O'Connell

A swarm of police officers are said to be surrounding Robert Cards home in Bowdoin, Maine, according to numerous reports.

Outlets reported hearing loud explosions coming from an address believed to be linked to the suspect with a heavy law enforcement presence outside. Its unclear if the alarming sounds were caused by flash bangs, guns, or something else entirely.

There are also reports of a helicopter circling over the house.

Kelly Rissman is covering this developing story...

Standoff outside Maine shooting suspect Robert Cards home

BREAKING: Developments in manhunt for suspected shooter

22:23 , Oliver O'Connell

Around 430pm on Thursday, it was reported by CNN that a series of loud bangs were heard in the vicinity of Bowdoin, Maine  near suspect Robert Cards home  and speculation that they may have been flash-bangs used in armed standoffs.

NewsNation reporter Alex Caprariello then posted this video in which a loudspeaker can heard announcing FBI! Open the door!

"FBI! OPEN THE DOOR!" Manhunt may be coming to an end soon #Lewiston #Maine pic.twitter.com/dxUb0aQolM  Alex Caprariello (@alcaprari23) October 26, 2023

Watch: Vice President Kamala Harris delivers remarks on Maine shootings

22:15 , Oliver O'Connell

Today, at the @StateDept w/ @AlboMP, @VP addressed the horrific mass shootings last night in Maine. As she has said before Congress must act to save lives, and today, she applauded Australian leaders for taking immediate action following a mass shooting in their country. pic.twitter.com/1hKBmQij9L  Kirsten Allen (@KirstenAllen46) October 26, 2023

Survivor reveals how he hid from shooter in bowling alley

22:00 , Oliver O'Connell

A man who survived the horror mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, has revealed how he hid down a bowling alley lane in a desperate bid to escape the gunman.

Brandon told The Associated Press that he was at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night when gunfire suddenly erupted in the family-friendly establishment.

We were inside, just a normal night of bowling. Out of nowhere he just came in and there was a loud pop, he said.

At first, Brandon said he mistook the noise for balloons popping before he turned and saw the gunman brandishing a rifle inside the bowling alley.

Rachel Sharp reports.

Maine shooting survivor reveals he hid down bowling alley lane

Maine AFL-CIO pays tribute to member and new father Peyton Ross

21:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Our thoughts & prayers go out to the family, friends & co-workers of Machinists Local S6 member Peyton Brewer Ross, who was killed in a mass shooting in Lewiston last night. Peyton was a new father & loved by his community.  pic.twitter.com/QXggiOAM4R  Maine AFL-CIO (@MEAFLCIO) October 26, 2023

Coast Guard searches by boat as shooting suspect remains at large

21:34 , AP

Authorities have been searching both on land and water for the suspect in Wednesdays shootings in Maine that killed 18 people.

The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River. But after hours of searching, authorities found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station.

The suspects car had been discovered by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and his 15ft (4.5m) boat remains unaccounted for, Smith said.

But he added that officials didnt have any specific intelligence that the suspect, Robert Card, might have escaped aboard his boat. Were just doing our due diligence, he said.

Hannity said hed use his MMA skills in a mass shooting

21:30 , Oliver O'Connell

Fox News host Sean Hannity used the devastating Lewiston shooting to bring up his own personal security plan that he claims he would have used during a similar attack.

The mass shooting happened on Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, when a gunman entered two locations and killed 18 people and 13 injured.

Hannity introduced his guest, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, before launching into how he felt that the politics surrounding gun laws always gets brought up after mass shootings.

Amelia Neath reports.

Fox News Sean Hannity said hed use his MMA skills in a mass shooting

Watch: Father of victim speaks to MSNBC

21:21 , Oliver O'Connell

Father of man killed in Lewiston, Maine shooting speaks out.



"Joe was a great, great son, a loving husband. He had two grandchildren and a stepson... thousands of people loved him," says Leroy Walker, whose son Joseph Walker managed the bar at Schemengees Bar & Grille. pic.twitter.com/CNnK2btGiT  MSNBC Reports (@MSNBC_reports) October 26, 2023

Note found at shooters home, report says

20:59 , Oliver O'Connell

Tom Winter of NBC News reports that a note was found in Robert Cards home as investigators executed a search warrant.

Right now, the search for Card remains very much active by law enforcement officials in Maine.  Tom Winter (@Tom_Winter) October 26, 2023

New House Speaker slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting

20:40 , Oliver O'Connell

Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson is facing criticism after simply offering prayers following the mass shooting in Maine as he responded to his first major crisis as a top-ranking elected official.

After calling it a horrific tragedy, heres what he said to the media on Thursday morning:

This is a dark time in America, we have a lot of problems and were really, really hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate in a time like this, that the evil can end and this senseless violence can stop. And so thats thats the statement this morning on behalf of the entire House of Representatives. Everyone wants this to end and Ill leave it there.

Speaker Mike Johnson slammed for offering prayers after mass shooting

Robert Cards ties to Maine shooting sites revealed

20:20 , Oliver O'Connell

Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Cards sister-in-law has added some colour to the reports of the 40-year-olds current state of mind.

After US Army reservist Mr Card was accused of killing 18 people on Wednesday night  and while a manhunt for the Bowdoin resident remains underway  Karen Card spoke out about her brother-in-law toThe Daily Beast.

Ms Card, who is married to the suspects brother, said that she has known the suspect her whole life.

He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know, she said on Thursday.

But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle.

Ms Card shed some light on previously reported details about his mental health struggles.

Kelly Rissman has the details.

Robert Cards ties to Maine shooting sites revealed by stunned relative

Timeline: Maine mass shooting that left 18 people dead

20:10 , Oliver O'Connell

Robert Card, 40, is being sought by local and federal law enforcement after at least 18 people were killed and 13 others were wounded in the deadliest mass shooting of the year.

Parts of Maine, like Lewiston and Bowdoin, are under shelter-in-place advisories, as the community is rattled by the tragedy  and waits for Card to be caught. Police said he should be considered armed and dangerous.

He is believed to be carrying a high-powered assault-style rifle and possibly extra ammunition. Investigators are still on the hunt for Card, as of Thursday afternoon.

Kelly Rissman looks at how the tragedy unfolded.

Timeline of the Maine mass shooting that has left 18 people dead

Shelter-in-place order extended across further counties

19:58 , Oliver O'Connell
Police in Maine are hunting an active gunman after a shooting in the city of Lewiston, that reportedly left 22 dead at different scenes.

Between 50 and 60 people were also injured in the shocking incident, according to NBC News.

There are three crime scenes, including Sparetime Recreation, Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant and the Walmart Distribution Center, reported The Sun-Journal.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow, tweeted Maine State Police.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office shared photos of the suspect armed with a rifle on their Facebook page.

A text sent out by Lewiston Public Schools urged anyone near or at the school for parent-teacher conferences to get in a safe place.

We are going into lockdown. I will provide more information as it is available and appropriate, the alert read.

Lewiston is a city of around 36,000 people about 36 miles north of Portland, Maine.

Key Points

Number of dead rises to at least 22: Reports

Police hunt active shooter in Maine city

Police release images of suspect brandishing rifle

Polie urge resident to shelter in place

Uvalde parents break silence over Maine mass shooting

09:50 , Rachel Sharp

Parents whose children were murdered in the mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in May 2022 have broken their silence as another community has been torn apart by gun violence.

22 dead so far in Lewiston, Maine. 60 believed to be injured. Its the f***ing guns! Im f***ing tired of this insanity! 22 peoples families are utterly destroyed. 60 people and their families lives are forever changed, Brett Cross, father of Uziyah Uzi Garcia, wrote on X on Wednesday night.

Gloria Cazares, the mother of murdered child Jackie Cazares, also took to X to post this message: Lewiston, Maine Im sorry we couldnt prevent the pain, heartache, grief and anger you are about to experience.

My heart goes out to all the families who have lost a loved one, especially the ones that dont know yet. Sincerely, a mom of a mass shooting victim.

Lewiston, Maine  Im sorry we couldnt prevent the pain, heartache, grief and anger you are about to experience. My heart goes out to all the families who have lost a loved one, especially the ones that dont know yet. Sincerely, a mom of a mass shooting victim  Gloria Cazares (@GloriaCazares82) October 26, 2023

Death toll from mass shootings remains fluid, says officials

09:27 , Rachel Sharp

Up to 22 people are feared dead following mass shootings across two locations in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night.

In a late-night press conference, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck refused to give a specific death toll saying the situation remains very fluid at this time.

This is a very fluid situation, he said.

I dont have firm numbers and when I do, I will be happy to share with you... I dont think its helpful.

A city councillor told CNN that at least 22 people had been killed while up to 60 others were injured.

A Lewiston police source also initially told NBC News that the death toll stood at 22  but the outlet later reported that sources had since put the death toll at 15 to 20.

Gun safety advocates lash out over lack of measures in Maine

09:00 , Namita Singh

Maine lacks several major types of gun safety laws, including assault weapons regulation, universal background checks, and red flag laws that allow law enforcement to temporarily disarm people legally deemed dangerous, according to Brady, a gun safety advocacy group.

A recreation center. A bowling alley. A neighborhood bar. Places Americans frequent and should feel safe... these are the crime scenes of multiple shootings tonight in Maine, said Kris Brown, president of Brady, in a statement.

At a reunification center in Lewistons sister city Auburn, just across the Androscoggin River, some families were discovering that relatives who had been at the bar and bowling alley had been killed in the shooting, Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque told reporters.

Officials were interviewing witnesses of the shooting of all ages at an undisclosed safe location on Wednesday night, Mr Levesque said.

Authorities urge residents to stay in their homes

08:59 , Namita Singh

The Maine police authorities have urged locals to remain inside their homes as the officials scour for the shooting suspect.

We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate, the sheriffs office reported.

Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now, Shannon Moss, spokesperson for Maine Department of Public Safety.

Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

An order for residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets of the city of 37,000 was extended on Wednesday night from Lewiston to Lisbon, about eight miles away, after a vehicle of interest was found there, authorities said.

He was holding a weapon

08:51 , Namita Singh

Brandon was bowling when he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon - he was holding a weapon - I just booked it, he said referring to the shooter.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery. He was among a busload of survivors who were driven to a school in the neighbouring city of Auburn to be reunited with family and friends.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said.

Watch:

08:16 , Namita Singh

Robert Card: What we know about the person of interest in Maine mass shooting

08:05 , Namita Singh

On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in several locations. Police scrambled to find the shooter, advising residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Maine law enforcement officials later announced that Robert Card, a 40-year-old man, was the person of interest in the shootings that claimed dozens of lives at a Lewiston bar and bowling alley.

Heres what we know so far:

Robert Card: What we know about the person of interest in Maine mass shooting

Watch: Mass casualties reported in Maine amid search for shooter

07:34 , Namita Singh

Police scour Maine for man sought in Lewiston mass shootings

07:33 , Namita Singh

Hundreds of police fanned out across the state of Maine hunting for a man wanted in connection with mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in the town of Lewiston.Officials said there were multiple casualties but declined to provide figures.

State and local police identified Robert Card, 40, who reportedly had been committed to a mental health facility over the summer, as a person of interest in the case. Earlier, they posted on Facebook photographs of a bearded man in a brown hoodie and jeans at one of the crime scenes, holding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle in the firing position.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr. Card, who is a person of interest, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.

Police found a white SUV they believe Mr Card drove to the town of Lisbon, about 11 km to the southeast, and Sauschuck said people were asked to remain indoors in both Lewiston and Lisbon.

Several media reported that a Maine law enforcement bulletin identified Card as a trained firearms instructor and member of the US Army reserve who recently reported that he had mental health issues, including hearing voices. It also said he threatened to shoot up a National Guard base.

Card was also reported to have been committed to mental health facility for two weeks during summer 2023 and subsequently released, said the notice from the Maine Information & Analysis Center

In video: At least 22 dead in Maine mass shootings, suspect still at large

07:31 , Namita Singh

At least 22 dead as police hunt gunman in Lewiston

07:14 , Namita Singh

At least 22 people have been killed and up to 60 more injured as police continue the hunt for an active shooter in Lewiston, Maine.

Police have identified 40-year-old Robert Card as a person of interest in the attack, which took place across multiple downtown locations, and said he should be considered armed and dangerous.

Hundreds of police are searching the city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine state for the perpetrator of mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley. President Joe Biden has offered federal support in the wake of the horrific attack and spoken to several Maine lawmakers, the White House said.

Read the details here:

Reports of active shooter causing multiple casualties at bar in Maine

Very trying, emotional time, says Auburn mayor

07:12 , Namita Singh

Its a shock. Its hard for me to explain, said Auburn mayor Jason Levesque. There is a lot of relief and happiness when families are reuniting, but youre seeing the trauma and the turmoil these witnesses are experiencing.

His statement comes as number of families reunited at Auburn Middle School in the city located two miles west of Lewiston.

He told CNN early on Thursday that it was a very trying, emotional time.

Auburn and Lewiston are side by side ... a river separates us. Combined, our population is around 60,000. You cannot help but know people who know someone, so this will impact every corner of our community, he told CNN.

The ages of the witnesses at the bowling alley ranged from 12 to 90, and everywhere in between, he said.

Six hours since massacre, shooting suspect still at large

06:45 , Namita Singh

Police are yet to arrest the shooter responsible for killing 22 people in Lewiston, Maine.

Hundreds of police continue to hunt the city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine state for the perpetrator of mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley six hours ago.

The alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8pm as the sheriffs office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating two active shooter events.

Officials issued an update around 10pm for what they described as a manhunt with officials later identifying 40-year-old Robert Card as a person of interest in the shooting.

FBIs Boston division coordinating with Maine law enforcement

05:37 , Namita Singh

The FBI said its Boston division is coordinating with law enforcement partners in Maine. It stands ready to assist with any available resources as it urged the public to remain vigilant.

Police finds vehicle of interest in Lisbon, issues 'shelter in place' order

05:10 , Namita Singh

Maine State police have issued a shelter-in-place order in Lisbon after they located a vehicle of interest in the area.

We ask anyone who sees anything suspicious to call 911, the officials said, advising residents against approaching Robert Card, who has been identified as a person of interest.

Caution to the public.

A shooting incident with multiple casualties has occurred in multiple locations in Lewiston. Police are currently searching for Robert R. Card (04/04/83) of Bowdoin. Card is considered armed and dangerous. If seen people should not approach Card or https://t.co/UzToVkLGkq  Maine State Police (@MEStatePolice) October 26, 2023

Biden offers any federal assistance he can provide to help people of Maine

05:09 , Namita Singh

US senator Angus King said that president Joe Biden reached out to him and offered any federal assistance he can provide to help the people of Maine.

Senator King expressed his deep appreciation to the President for the outreach and support, said a statement issued through his official account on X.

Given the horrific nature of the event in Maine, Senator King will now be headed to Maine on one of the first flights available  he wants to be home to support Lewiston in any way he can.

An updated statement on the mass casualty event in Lewiston: pic.twitter.com/fGjhGd8boG  Senator Angus King (@SenAngusKing) October 26, 2023

Sheriff confirms 22 killed in Maine shooting

04:50 , Namita Singh

At least 22 people were killed in the shooting incidents in Maine, confirmed Androscoggin County Sheriff Eric Samson to the Sun Journal.

The number of casualties are expected to rise, he said.

Mr Samson told the Bangor Daily News that seven people were found dead at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way in Lewiston. He added there were an unconfirmed number of people killed at Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street.

Hundreds of police officers searching for Card

04:50 , Namita Singh

Hundreds of police officers searching for Robert Card in Lewiston, Maine shooting, said public safety commissioner

In a state of shock: Witness describe the Maine shooting

04:37 , Namita Singh

Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, said her staff immediately locked their doors and moved all 25 customers and employees away from the doors after a customer reported hearing about the shooting at the bowling alley less than a quarter-mile away around 7pm.

Soon, the police flooded the roadway and a police officer eventually escorted everyone out of the building four at a time. Everyone in the bar is safe.I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe, Ms Small said.

But the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.

This handout image released on 25 October 2023 by the Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office (Androscoggin County Sheriff's Of)

The alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8pm as the sheriffs office reported that law enforcement agencies were investigating two active shooter events.

Officials issued an update around 10pm for what they described as a manhunt.Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear, the statement said. Seek alternative routes to circumvent the area and any disruptions. If already operating in the affected region, adhere to all instructions issued by local officials, including the shelter-in-place order.

We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate, the sheriffs office reported.

What we know about Robert Card? The person of interest in Maine shooting

04:35 , Namita Singh

The man identified as a person of interest in a mass killing in Maine is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin.

The police intelligence bulletin, reviewed by the Associated Press, was being circulated to law enforcement officials on Wednesday night.

A person of interest identified by police as Robert Card is seen in this handout image (Reuters)

The bulletin says the man, Robert Card, had been trained as a firearms instructor at a US Army Reserve training facility in Maine. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Card was being sought by police as a person of interest in Wednesdays shootings. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

Maine shooting could be deadliest massacre since August 2019

04:33 , Namita Singh

At least 22 people were killed and 50 to 60 wounded on Wednesday in mass shootings at multiple locations including a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine, NBC News reported, citing a Lewiston police source.

If the death toll of 22 is confirmed, the massacre would be the deadliest in the United States since at least August 2019, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 23 in a shooting that prosecutors branded an anti-Hispanic hate crime, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

The 22 fatalities would also be on par with the number of homicides that normally occur in Maine in any given year. The number of annual homicides in the state has fluctuated between 16 and 29 since 2012, according to Maine State Police.

The number of US shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the Covid-19 pandemic began in 2020, with 647 occurring in 2022 and 679 projected to occur in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the archive.

The deadliest US mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017.

Armed and dangerous: Police identifies 40-year-old Robert Card as person of interest in Maine shooting

04:06 , Namita Singh

Police have named 40-year-old Robert Card as a person of interest in the Maine shootings in which at least 22 people are reported to have been killed.

Card should be considered armed and dangerous, said the Maine state police.

Lewiston mayor comments on shootings

03:46 , Graeme Massie

Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said he is heartbroken for our city and our people after the shooting that reportedly left 22 people dead.

Lewiston is known for our strength and grit and we will need both in the days to come, he said in a statement.

What we know about Lewiston mass shooting

03:45 , Namita Singh

On Wednesday night the city of Lewiston, Maine, was shaken after a gunman opened fire in several locations. Police scrambled to find the suspect, advising residents and local businesses to lock down immediately.

Here is what we know so far.

Mass shooting in Maine: What we know about Lewiston attack

Biden offers federal support in wake of Maine shooting

03:45 , Namita Singh

President Joe Biden has spoken to Maines governor and several lawmakers about the shooting in Lewiston.

The White House said he offered full federal support in the wake of the horrific attack.

US Senator Angus King comments on shooting

03:38 , Graeme Massie

Senator King is deeply sad for the city of Lewiston and all those worried about their family, friends and neighbors. Hes receiving regular updates, awaits further details from local authorities, and will be headed directly home to Maine once the Senates final vote is held tomorrow afternoon, his office stated on X.

Given the shelter in place currently underway, he asks all in Androscoggin County to allow first responders to address the threat, stay indoors, and report any suspicious behavior to the local authorities.

Joe Biden briefed on Maine mass shooting

03:32 , Graeme Massie

The President has been briefed on whats known so far about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine and will continue to receive updates, the White House said in a statement on Wednesday night.

Lewiston public schools closed on Thursday

03:25 , Graeme Massie

Public schools in Lewiston will be closed on Thursday following the mass shooting in the Maine city.

There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately, Jake Langlais, the superintendent, said in a message on the districts website.

Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate.

Stay close to your loved ones. Embrace them. Our prayers go out to those who lost someone tonight, he added.

Lewiston city councillor confirms 22 dead in mass shooting

03:20 , Graeme Massie

Robert McCarthy appeared on CNN and confirmed the number of victims in the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

Police issue photo of suspects car

03:15 , Graeme Massie

Maine hospital responds to mass casualty event amid shooter manhunt

03:15 , Graeme Massie

Mass shooting almost equals states 2022 homicides

03:08 , Graeme Massie

In 2022 Maine recorded 29 murders in total, according to data from the Maine Department of Public Safety. Police sources have said that at least 22 people have been killed in the Lewiston mass shooting.

Images from Lewiston mass shooting

02:59 , Graeme Massie

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, (AP)

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, (AP)

Number of dead rises to at least 22: Reports

02:53 , Graeme Massie

NBC News and Fox News both say that at least 22 people have been killed in the Lewiston shooting, according to law enforcement sources.

Mass shooting in Maine: What we know about Lewiston attack

02:52 , Graeme Massie

Dozens of people are believed to have been shot in at least three locations.

Mike Bedigan has the story.

Mass shooting in Maine: What we know about Lewiston attack

At least 16 dead in Maine shooting, reports CNN and ABC News

02:35 , Graeme Massie

At least 16 people are dead in multiple shootings in Lewiston, Maine, multiple law enforcement sources told CNN.

Another 50 to 60 people have also been injured in the Wednesday evening attacks according to the news network.

Maine governor comments on shooting

02:15 , Graeme Massie

I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement. I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials, stated governor Janet Mills on X.

Police urge people to keep roads clear

02:03 , Graeme Massie

Nearby city of Auburn warns residents to also shelter in place

01:55 , Graeme Massie

Police release images of suspect brandishing rifle

01:50 , Graeme Massie

Police release images of suspected shooter in Lewiston, Maine (Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office)

Sheriff posts picture of shooting suspect

01:29 , Graeme Massie

Reports of active shooter causing multiple casualties at bar in Maine

01:25 , Graeme Massie

Reports of active shooter causing multiple casualties at bar in Maine

Police hunting active shooter

01:23 , Graeme Massie

Maine shooting

01:22 , Graeme Massie

This is a live blog covering an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston, Maine.
By SA Commercial Prop News

The dangers posed by incompetent and unqualified personnel who handled Tongaat Mall construction in Durban were highlighted on Wednesday during the proceedings of the Commissions Inquiry.



The dangers posed by incompetent and unqualified personnel who handled Tongaat Mall construction in Durban were highlighted on Wednesday during the proceedings of the Commissions Inquiry.

The doomed shopping mall had unqualified foremen, sub-standard beams and a sagging slab, an inquiry heard yesterday.

Testifying at a Section 32 hearing, building foreman Ronnie Pillay said his appointment by Durban businessman Jay Singh was based on his 14 years of experience in construction.



Brickworks foreman Prashalen Gounder was unqualified and unable to answer questions on the dimensions of a brick.



Construction regulations, as explained by the inquiry's commissioner Phumudzo Maphaha, stipulate that a competent worker should have qualifications, formal training and experience.



Pillay maintained that he was competent, but said Singh was responsible for the project. The commission heard that instructions, including one to continue working despite a court order to stop, came from Singh.



Singh's son, Ravi Jagadasan, of Rectangle Property Investments, was the developer, and Gralio Precast was owned by Singh's former wife, Shireen Annamalay.



Section 32 hearings are instituted against parties whose alleged negligence results in the injury or death of workers.



Two construction workers were killed and 29 others injured when the unfinished mall collapsed in November last year.



Pillay told the commission that he noticed a sagging concrete slab, which he brought to the attention of site engineer Andre Ballack.



He said Ballack instructed him to build two beams under the slab.



Pillay said that section of the mall collapsed because the supporting columns were not big enough, an issue he raised with Singh. He said he was told that Ballack had said they were sufficient. During cross-examination Ballack's attorney, Richard Hoal, asked Pillay if 19 steel bars had been inserted in the supporting beams, as stipulated.



Pillay said he could not answer because a subcontractor had inserted the bars.



But Maphaha said he had visited the site and did not see "more than 10 bars" in the collapsed beams.



Pillay testified that Singh instructed him to continue work after eThekwini Municipality won a court order to stop all construction on site.



The municipality last year had tried several times to stop the construction because the developer had not applied for permission to build the mall.



Pillay conceded that the mall collapse could have been avoided if the order had been followed.
A manhunt for a gunman is underway after at least 22 people were killed and dozens more were injured in two mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, that sent families running, forced a local hospital to call in off-duty staff for backup and prompted calls in three cities to stay indoors Wednesday night, authorities said.

Robert Card, 40, is being sought as a person of interest in the shootings at the two locations, Lewiston police said around 11 p.m. ET, adding he should be considered armed and dangerous.

If people see him, they should not approach Card or make contact with him in any way, Maines Department of Public Safety commissioner Mike Sauschuck said in Wednesday night news conference.

Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserves, law enforcement officials in Maine told CNN. Card had recently made threats to carry out a shooting at a National Guard facility in Saco, Maine, and also reported mental health issues, including hearing voices, the officials said.

Sauschuck declined to provide additional details on the person of interest, saying were not prepared to go into his background.

The Lewiston Police Department identified Robert Card as a "person of interest" in the shootings. - Lewiston Police Department

The shooting rampage began shortly before 7 p.m. and fueled calls for everyone in Lewiston to shelter in place as hundreds of officers joined the search for the gunman. Lewiston police shared images of a man walking into what appears to be a bowling alley holding a high-powered assault-style rifle.

The active shooting incidents were reported at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and about 4 miles away at Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street, according to Lewiston police.

Video obtained by CNN shows people running away from Sparetime Recreation Wednesday night as police cruisers responded to the scene. Different video from outside the bowling alley shows a person on a stretcher being loaded into an ambulance.

Central Maine Medical Center said its reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event, and coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

There are multiple scenes in the city to include multiple hospitals, multiple follow ups, a lot of witnesses were speaking with and a lot of leads, Sauschuck said. The general public has been very cooperative, and very forthcoming with information.

Sauschuck said its a fluid situation and did not provide a number on how many have been killed as of early Thursday, but Lewiston City Councillor Robert McCarthy told CNN 22 people had been killed, citing a city administrator.

A vehicle of interest was found 8 miles from Lewiston in the town of Lisbon Wednesday night, prompting shelter-in-place-orders for that area as well, Sauschuck said.

Lewiston police had earlier shared an image of a small, white SUV with a front bumper that was believed to be painted black. Maine State Police confirmed to CNN the image is of the suspects car.

The violence on Wednesday added to a list of 565 mass shootings reported across the United States this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The nonprofit and CNN define mass shootings as those in which four or more people are shot, excluding the shooter.

Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said he is heartbroken for our city and our people.

Lewiston is known for our strength and grit and we will need both in the days to come, Sheline said in a statement to CNN Wednesday.

Lewiston Public Schools and multiple nearby school districts canceled classes Thursday as the search continued for the gunman.

Stay close to your loved ones. Embrace them. Our prayers go out to those who lost someone tonight. Our prayers go out to all those working to stop further loss of life, Lewiston Public Schools said in a post.

People sent running out of bowling alley

Law enforcement officers stand with rifles outside Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday. - Steven Senne/AP

The shooting injected fear into Lewiston, the states second-largest city located about 36 miles north of Portland.

Nichoel Wyman Arel was on her way home with her daughter from a Girl Scout meeting when she saw police lights and ambulances around the bowling alley and people running. At least one person looked to be covered in blood, she told CNNs Laura Coates.

Arel said they saw officers patting people down as they came out of the bowling alley.

There were kids. Looking back, that was probably the hardest part is seeing just families; families pouring out of there, Arel said. And knowing that that happened in there while they were just probably trying to have a family night.

When she got home, Arel said that she locked up the house, including windows. Arel said that her daughter was scared somebody was going to come into our home.

Lewiston City Councilor Robert McCarthy lives half a mile away from where one of the shootings happened and said whats happening is a real scary event.

We locked all the doors. We grabbed the guns, he told CNNs Abby Phillip Wednesday night. Were just waiting to hear that they catch the individual or individuals that did this.

Officials in the neighboring city of Auburn, less than 2 miles west of Lewiston, also urged residents to shelter in place due to the active shooter situation, according to a post on X, formerly Twitter.

A reunification center was set up at a school in Auburn for those in Lewiston looking for their loved ones, Sauschuck said.

Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque said there was a lot of fear and panic among residents at the reunification center, and witnesses to the shootings included teenagers.

You can train for this but you can never be completely prepared, Levesque said, Its an all hands on deck situation.

Timeline

 Around 7 p.m.: Two shootings are reported in Lewiston with multiple casualties, according to Sauschuck.

 8 p.m.: Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office releases photos of the armed suspect and says its investigating two active shooter incidents. The agency encourages all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate.

 8:09 p.m.: Maine State Police says theres an active shooter in Lewiston and tells people to stay inside with their doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, the agency added.

 8:26 p.m.: The neighboring City of Auburn urges all residents to shelter in place.

 8:53 p.m.: Lewiston police identify the shooting locations as Schemengees and Sparetime Recreation.

 9:17 p.m.: Lewiston police release the image of a white vehicle, asking members of the public to contact them if they see it. Maine State Police told CNN the image is of the suspects car.

 10:18 p.m.: Lewiston City Councilor Robert McCarthy tells CNN the death toll was at 22 people killed.

 10:52 p.m.: Police on social media name Robert Card as a person of interest in the shootings and release his photo.

 Around 11:30 p.m.: Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck says in a news conference that a vehicle of interest was found in Lisbon, but the person of interest remains at large.

 11:34 p.m.: Lisbon officials say all town offices will be closed on Thursday and tell people to keep sheltering in place.

The FBI office in Boston said its ready to assist local authorities as they respond to the mass shootings.

The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance, the FBI in Boston said in a statement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in Boston is also among agencies responding to the shootings, according to a post from the agency.

President Joe Biden spoke by phone with a number of Maine lawmakers in the wake of the mass shootings in Lewiston, and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack, the White House said in a statement.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

CNNs Jamiel Lynch, Josh Campbell, Chris Boyette and Joe Sutton contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A man is accused of shooting his 67-year-old mother at a nursing home in West Virginia and fleeing the scene, deputies said.

James Steed Biddell of Chillicothe, Ohio, faces charges of attempted murder, malicious wounding and wanton endangerment, the Logan County Sheriffs Office said in an Oct. 23 news release.

Deputies responded to a call at the Trinity Healthcare Services nursing home at around 5:15 p.m. Oct. 23, according to the release. They learned Biddells mother was shot in the chest and the 44-year-old had fled, deputies said.

She was airlifted to a hospital and is in stable condition, according to the release.

While arriving at the scene, deputies said they received notice that state troopers had stopped a silver Chevrolet truck matching the description of Biddells on U.S. Route 119.

Troopers arrested Biddell, and he was taken to Southwestern Regional Jail to await arraignment, deputies said. He was also charged with use or presentation of a firearm during commission of a felony, according to jail records.

Information regarding Biddells legal representation wasnt immediately available as of Oct. 26.

A motive for the shooting is unclear at the time. McClatchy reached out to the Logan County Sheriffs Office but did not immediately receive further details.

Logan County is in southern West Virginia about 40 miles east of the Kentucky border.

Husband arrested after missing mom of 6s body found hidden in culvert, Oklahoma cops say

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A temple in Nagasaki prefecture, Japan, had been embroiled in a legal dispute with South Korea over a 700-year-old cultural property Buddha statue (Nippon TV News 24 Japan/YouTube/Screengrab)

South Korea will have to return a 14th-century Buddhist statue to Japan, the countrys Supreme Court said in a ruling on a dispute that had become a thorn in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

This ruling puts an end to the long-standing legal dispute between the countries concerning the 50cm (20 inch) statue stolen from Kannonji, a temple on Japans Tsushima island in Nagasaki prefecture in 2012.

The court on Thursday rejected claims of ownership for the statue made by Buseok  a Buddhist temple about 100km (62 miles) south of Seoul.

According to reports, the thieves were caught trying to sell the statue after returning home and the statue then came under the purview of South Koreas authorities. The Buseok temple filed a lawsuit in 2016 asserting ownership over the statue.

South Korean authorities claimed Japanese pirates had stolen the historical artefact from their temple hundreds of years ago.

After the apex courts ruling, Japanese authorities announced they would ask theBuseok temple to return the 700-year-old seated Bodhisattva statue.

The statue, that the Nagasaki prefecture designated as its cultural property, will now be returned to Kannonji.

The court said the South Korean temple had lost ownership of the Buddha statue due to the length of time it had been in the possession of the Japanese temple. It also noted that Kannonji satisfies requirements to be recognised as the statues owner under Japans Civil Code.

The Kyodo news agency quoted Setsuryu Tanaka, the chief priest of Kannonji, as saying that the ruling was reasonable and that he wanted the Buddha statue to be returned to the southwestern Japan island.

There was a long-standing legal dispute between the two neighbours over the Buddha statue that was stolen from a temple in Japan in 2012 (Nippon TV News 24 Japan/YouTube/Screengrab)

A chief priest of the South Korean temple, however, condemned the ruling. Our Supreme Court has legalised armed and illegal looting. This is such a barbaric ruling, and we cannot accept it at all, said Won Woo, the chief priest.

The latest court ruling comes after a previous order by a higher court in South Korea in February 2017 said the statue should be handed over to the South Korean temple.

The ruling had led to the worsening of ties between the two countries.

On Thursday, local media was quick to note the timing of the Supreme Court ruling. Many reports said it comes at a time of improving Japan-South Korea relations, following South Korean president Yoon Suk-yeols commitment in March to address its longstanding wartime labour dispute with Japan.

In Tokyo, deputy chief cabinet secretary Hideki Murai said the Japanese government will urge the South Korean government to promptly return the Buddha statue to its owner, the Japanese temple.

The statue is currently being held at the National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage in the central Korean city of Daejeon, according to the Yonhap news agency.

Additional reporting by agencies
HANGZHOU, China (Reuters) -Stellantis is buying a 21% stake in Chinese EV maker Leapmotor for $1.6 billion, it said on Thursday, in a reset of its China strategy to focus on electric vehicles after years of poor sales and manufacturing pullback in the world's biggest auto market.

Leapmotor also announced the formation of a joint venture with Stellantis, in which the Chrysler parent will own a 51% stake giving it exclusive rights for the export, sale and manufacturing of Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology's products outside Greater China.

The deal, which follows a Volkswagen-Xpeng tie-up announced in July, heralds a new era of automotive alliances in China and reflects how the country is emerging as a global centre of EV technology.

"We havent been so successful in China so we prefer to rely on a Chinese partner. To win in China is better to win with a Chinese company," Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares told a news conference in the eastern Chinese city of Hangzhou, seated beside Leapmotor CEO Zhu Jiangming.

Some analysts were sceptical that such a minority-stake taking partnership would help established foreign auto brands revive their declining fortunes in China.

"Small investments that allow them access to newer technology that they're not able to develop in-house doesn't seem like ... the silver bullet they're hoping it is," said Tu Le, founder of Beijing-based advisory firm Sino Auto Insights.

Bill Russo, CEO of Shanghai-based advisory firm Automobility, agreed that "successful automotive partnerships are few in number, and often dissolve when the interests diverge."

Stellantis, formed at the start of 2021 through the merger of France's PSA with Fiat Chrysler (FCA), has struggled to sell cars in China and has looked to change its strategy in the country, where it has a joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Group.

The group, whose brands include Fiat and Peugeot, said a year ago it was closing its joint venture that makes Jeeps in China with Guangzhou Automobile Group after disappointing results.

Stellantis and rivals such as Renault are concerned about growing competition from cheap Chinese electric cars in Europe, a worry shared by the European Commission which has launched an anti-subsidy probe into whether to set tariffs to shield European producers from Chinese EV imports.

Tavares on Thursday criticised the EU probe.

"We like competition. To start a probe is not the best way to tackle those questions," he said.

Asked about how the Leapmotor partnership was different from its tie-ups with Dongfeng and GAC, Tavares said it was better for a Chinese entity to lead the way in the Chinese market.

"If we develop Leapmotor overseas, it gives Leapmotor better competitiveness in the Chinese market," he said.

Concerns about competition and the dilution of existing shareholdings sent Leapmotor shares down 11% on Thursday, reversing an 11% jump upon the market opening.

More than 40 EV brands are locked in a bruising price war in China, triggered by Tesla's price cuts earlier this year. Despite steep price reductions, EV sales are slowing due to weak consumer demand, putting margin pressure on automakers and their suppliers.

MORE PARTNERSHIPS

The Netherlands-incorporated joint venture is expected to start its export business in the second half of 2024, while Stellantis would have two seats on the Chinese firm's board of directors, the two companies said.

The partnership will help Stellantis expand its EV lineups and meet a 2030 target of EVs accounting for all of its sales in Europe and half of its U.S. sales.

Leapmotor, ranked ninth by new energy vehicle sales in China, has been looking to license its EV platforms and other EV assets to established foreign automakers to generate cash. The company said last month it needed at least a five-fold increase in sales to survive in a consolidating EV industry.

"We will certainly see more and more such partnerships as Chinese EV startups have a real urgency to survive and they are open to have foreign shareholders," said Yale Zhang, managing director at Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight.

The deal, which is subject to regulatory approvals, will see Leapmotor issue 194.3 million Hong Kong-listed shares to Stellantis for HK$43.8 per share, a premium of 19% to its last close of HK$36.80.

After the subscription, Stellantis will own about 21.07% of Leapmotor's total issued Hong Kong shares. Shareholder Dahua said it would sell its 90 million Leapmotor shares to Stellantis as part of the deal.

($1 = 0.9466 euros)

(Reporting by Zhang Yan and Brenda Goh; Additional reporting by Sameer Manekar and Kanjyik Ghosh in Bengaluru; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Stephen Coates)
The mother of US Army private Travis King, who was charged with desertion after he fled into North Korea over the summer, said her family plans to "fight the charges" brought against him, including allegations that he was in possession of child sex abuse material.

Claudine Gates and Dan Jovanovic, Mr King's mother and stepfather, spoke to ABC News and insisted the charges against their son do not reflect the "peaceful person" they know him to be.

"The actions that the Army is saying that what he's doing is not Travis. He's not like that. He's a good boy," Ms Gates said.

Mr King had reportedly been detained by South Korean law enforcement for punching someone in a Seoul nightclub. He was sentenced to 47 days in a South Korean detention facility and was scheduled to be returned to the US for disciplinary procedures in July.

Rather than return to the US, Mr King fled into North Korea across the Demilitarized Zone, where he was taken into custody by DPRK forces. He was released in September and is now being held in pre-trial detention in El Paso, Texas.

A TV screen shows a file image of American soldier Travis King during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

His parents said they were concerned that his mental health had deteriorated, and said they were left wanting after asking the US military for updates on his condition. They said Mr King seemed "very drowsy and tired" when they saw him two weeks ago in Texas.

"I didn't think that they were doing any harm to him or anything  But he seemed like he was still withdrawn," Mr Jovanovic said.

The parents told the news outlet that Mr King had signed papers preventing him from speaking on why he fled to North Korea and what occurred when he was in DPRK custody. Ms Gates said her son "seemed very worried."

In addition to his desertion and the disciplinary actions pending from his nightclub encounter, Mr King was also accused of soliciting lewd photos from an underage girl in exchange for money, according to a charging document.

EXCLUSIVE: Travis Kings mother and stepfather tell @LinseyDavis the eight counts leveled against the U.S. Army private charged by the Army with desertion do not align with the peaceful person they know.



More on @ABCNewsLive at 7PM ET. pic.twitter.com/cXPy6xcvmK  Good Morning America (@GMA) October 25, 2023

His mother said she was "blindsided" by the accusation that he was seeking child sex abuse materials, and his father said the claim was "100 per cent-plus out of character" for the man.

"That's not him, period," he said.

They said Mr King lost his phone during his time in South Korea and theorised that perhaps someone else used it to solicit the photos.

"If you got all these devices accessible or laying around and everything, God only knows how that manifested itself in there," Ms Gates said.

Mr King's parents said he hated alcohol and drunkenness and criticised the Army for not intervening when he apparently began drinking to excess in South Korea.

"They should have given him some type of help and got him off that juice," Mr Jovanovic said. "Something had to be done about it so it [didn't] escalate to being worse, which I think that's what happened."

An Army spokesperson speaking to ABC News said that "to protect the privacy of Private King, the Army will not comment on the details of ongoing litigation. Private King is presumed innocent of the charges until proven guilty."

Ms Gates said she was "afraid" for her son.
A fishing vessel is shown.

A group of three friends are missing after going on a deep-sea fishing trip off the coast of Georgia, sparking fears and a frantic search as their time away continues to build.

The U.S. Coast Guard continued searching for the trio Wednesday with air and surface crews, as families of the fishermen still haven't given up hope that the search of more than 32,000 square nautical miles off the Carolinas, Florida and Georgia coasts will lead to their loved ones.

Dalton Conway, Caleb Wilkinson and Tyler Barlow set off on a rented 31-foot fishing vessel named Carol Ann on Oct. 14. They planned to travel 80 miles from docks in Brunswick, Georgia, to a popular fishing spot offshore before heading back on Oct. 18, a GoFundMe set up by family said.

#Update 5 @USCG crews continue to search for 3 people aboard an overdue fishing vessel with approx. 32,172 sq. miles searched.



Mariners are requested to keep a sharp lookout & notify the #USCG of any signs of distress or vessels that meet the description of the Carol Ann. pic.twitter.com/GkmjZDJBe3  USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) October 24, 2023

A good samaritan reportedly saw the vessel anchored with people on board that day, the Coast Guard reported, but now a week after the expected return date, fears that the men are lost at sea have grown, as there has been no communication nor any other signs of the vessel.

But it appears the Coast Guard and the families are keeping an optimistic outlook; though the military branch said it was a "complicated search," it said there are reasons to remain hopeful, like the lack of conversations about turning it into a recovery mission.

A Coast Guard spokesperson told Axios the vessel's emergency beacon has not been activated, which automatically occurs when the vessel is submerged in water.

And one family member told First Coast News he's hopeful his "cautious" brother Caleb Wilkinson is just waiting for rescue.

"We're all hoping they're just drifting off and trying to figure out what to do," Cameron Wilkinson told the publication. "We have no idea what's going on. Honestly, we're just hoping that they come home."

SEE MORE: Coast Guard rescues 4 missing divers off North Carolina coast
Some have been waiting in Pakistan for more than a year, according to charities

The UK government is to charter flights to relocate Afghan refugees living in Pakistan who have been promised UK visas, starting on Thursday.

Thousands of people who worked with or for the UK government in Afghanistan and fled the Taliban are in Pakistan, waiting for relocation to the UK.

Some have been waiting for over a year, according to charities.

Earlier this month, Pakistan said it plans to start deporting illegal migrants from 1 November.

Among the Afghan refugees in Pakistan are former translators for the British army and teachers for the British council, all part of either the Afghan citizens resettlement scheme or Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy.

All went to Pakistan because the UK asked them to go to process their visas ready to start a new life in the UK.

But many of the refugees' visas have now expired.

And according to a risk assessment document revealed in court, the British authorities in Pakistan now consider people in this group to be "at risk of deportation".

Recent government figures show that around 3,250 men women and children on the UK's relocation schemes are living in guest houses and hotels in Pakistan's capital Islamabad.

While in Pakistan, they have no legal access to work and their children are not allowed to go to school.

Initially many thought they would be in Pakistan for a few weeks.

Documents released in court revealed how many face longer waits in part due to instructions by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, banning their accommodation in hotels in the UK in all but extreme cases.

Instead, longer-term accommodation was to be found. An email released in the documents stated that this "should represent an overall net saving to the taxpayer".

The UK government is planning on sending several flights until December

Over the past few weeks the BBC has spoken to people on the UK's relocation programmes; many said they are afraid to leave their hotels.

According to official sources in Pakistan, the UK government is now planning on chartering several flights over the course of the next few months, until December.

The officials have said the first of these flights starts on Thursday.

The UK government has not said how many people will be onboard the first flight or how many are expected to be relocated before 1 November deadline.

The BBC understands that the government has decided that those on the relocation programmes will no longer need to be matched to so-called "suitable accommodation" before they arrive.

There was some hope, but also confusion about the news of the flights.

'No one knows who is first'

Jamal, not his real name, worked as a translator for the British army, and said he had not heard anything from the British authorities.

"Hopefully everyone will move soon, no one knows who is first, who is in the middle, who is last," he told the BBC.

Mahfouz, also not his real name, worked delivering projects for the UK government.

"I am just concerned what will happen if my family will not be on one of those flights until the end of December.

"My wife is pregnant and if we don't travel soon we may have to wait into next year," he said.

Those on the UK schemes are becoming increasingly nervous about the 1 November deadline.

Several told the BBC on at least two occasions where they had heard of police raiding accommodation and detaining people on the UK relocation schemes, who did not have the suitable documents to hand.

Even though they were released, it has left many frightened they could be sent back to Afghanistan.

The Taliban government has declared an amnesty for those who worked with international forces.

However, many people we spoke to talked about living in hiding before they left Afghanistan for Pakistan, scared, they said, of what might happen to them.

Some felt that by following the UK authorities' directions and leaving Afghanistan they had put themselves at increased risk.

Qasim - not his real name - worked with the UK authorities.

He said: "Before we left Afghanistan, our lives were in 50% danger. Now they are in 100% danger."

The UK authorities' risk assessment also acknowledges that things may change after 1 November.

The document states that they have stood a "reasonable chance of success" of securing release, if notified in time of someone on the scheme's detention.

But that "it is very difficult to judge we would be successful in every case if it were to happen frequently beyond 1 November and we were not informed or the eligible person didn't have the documents with them."

A UK Ministry of Defence spokesperson did not comment on the flights but said the UK had brought around 24,600 people from Afghanistan to safety, including thousands of people eligible for the country's Afghan schemes.

Additional reporting by Gem O'Reilly
By Michelle Nichols

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) -Russia and China on Wednesday vetoed a U.S. push for the United Nations Security Council to act on the Israel-Hamas conflict by calling for pauses in fighting to allow humanitarian aid access, the protection of civilians and a stop to arming Hamas and other militants in the Gaza Strip.

The United States put forward a draft resolution on Saturday as global outcry grew over a worsening humanitarian crisis and mounting civilian death toll in Gaza. It made the move just days after it vetoed a humanitarian focused draft from Brazil, arguing more time was needed for U.S.-led diplomacy.

The initial U.S. text shocked many diplomats with its bluntness in stating Israel has a right to defend itself and demanding Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups. It did not include a call for humanitarian pauses for aid access. But it largely toned down the final text that was put to the vote.

"We did listen to all of you," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council after the double veto, which she described as disappointing. "Though todays vote was a setback, we must not be deterred."

It was a rare move by the United States to suggest Security Council action. Washington has traditionally shielded its ally Israel at the world body.

Ten members voted for the U.S. text, while the United Arab Emirates voted no and Brazil and Mozambique abstained.

"The draft does not reflect the world's strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue," China's U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun told the council after the vote. "At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians."

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has been appealing for a humanitarian ceasefire.

'OBLIGATION TO ACT'

In the wake of the Security Council deadlock, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly will vote on Friday on a draft resolution put forward by Arab states that calls for a ceasefire. No country holds a veto in the General Assembly. Resolutions are non-binding, but carry political weight.

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, which rules Gaza, in retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack that killed 1,400 people. Israel has struck Gaza from the air, imposed a siege on the enclave of 2.3 million people and is preparing a ground invasion. Palestinian authorities say more than 6,500 have been killed.

Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accuses the U.S. of putting up a draft resolution that represented Security Council authorization of a ground offensive in Gaza by Israel "while thousands of Palestinian children will continue to die."

After the double veto, the Security Council then voted on a rival Russian-drafted text that called for a humanitarian ceasefire and withdrawal of Israel's order for civilians in Gaza to relocate south ahead of a ground assault.

Russia failed to the get minimum amount of support needed, winning only four votes. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the United States, France, Britain, Russia or China to be adopted.

It was Russia's second attempt at a resolution. Only five council members voted in favor of a Russian text on Oct. 16.

The elected 10 members of the Security Council now plan to work on a new draft resolution, Malta's U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier said.

"This crisis is also gripped by a growing risk of a regional spill over. This demands our undivided attention," she said. "We have the duty and the obligation to act."

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols; editing by Cynthia Osterman and Grant McCool)
A British TikToker appeared confused as airport police pulled almost 3kg of cocaine from his suitcase in Peru.

Modou Adams, 25, has been jailed for six years and eight months after authorities caught him trying to smuggle cocaine to London from Jorge Chavez International Airport on 30 September.

The Superior Court of Justice of Callao said officials found drugs sealed in the back of the models suitcase during a search.

Adams was sentenced after admitting a drug smuggling charge and was also fined, the court said.

Footage shows the TikTok star appearing baffled as authorities cut the suitcase open to reveal the drugs.
The White House on Wednesday sent a supplemental funding request of roughly $55 billion to Congress for domestic priorities including natural disaster relief and child care providers.

The funding request asks for $23.5 billion in disaster response, including $9 billion to the Disaster Relief Fund for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to address ongoing response efforts, $2.8 billion for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to address housing and infrastructure needs caused by major disasters and $2.8 billion for the Department of Agriculture to support farmers and ranchers with crop losses from natural disasters.

The request also included $16 billion for child care costs, which would go to the Department of Health and Human Services for an additional year of funding to keep child care providers afloat, the Biden administration said.

The request comes just after House Republicans elected Rep. Mike Johnson (R-La.) as Speaker earlier Wednesday following three weeks of struggling to fill the office, which had paralyzed the lower chamber. Congress is facing a Nov. 17 deadline to fund the government.

The White Houses domestic priorities request also includes $6 billion for the Federal Communications Commission to extend free and discounted high-speed interest for low-income households through December 2024 and $6 billion for energy independence programs, such as funding to reimburse communications providers for the ongoing removal of insecure equipment and software.

Additionally, the administration is asking for $1.55 billion to counter fentanyl by funding grants to provide treatment, harm reduction and recovery support services. And it is asking for $1.6 billion for grants to low-income homes to help cover heating costs.

Another $1.05 billion would go to international food assistance programs to support programs such as global maternal and child nutrition projects, and $220 million would go to prevent cuts to the salaries of federal wildland firefighters.

Press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre had previewed Tuesday that the request would include funding for child care, which has been one of President Bidens top domestic priorities.

Its going to lay out the  presidents priorities as it relates to disaster relief, as it relates to child care, she said, adding that child care is something thats been part of the presidents platform for some time.

The White House sent an emergency funding request of roughly $100 billion Friday to Congress that seeks additional money for border security, allies in the Indo-Pacific and for Israel and Ukraine in their respective conflicts against Hamas and Russia.

Roughly $61 billion of that request covered money for Ukraine, while $14 billion is funding for Israels defense, nearly $14 billion is for personnel and operations at the U.S.-Mexico border, $10 billion for humanitarian aid and $2 billion for Indo-Pacific security assistance.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
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WASHINGTON  Three months ago as Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips began to signal publicly that he could launch a 2024 campaign, he called President Joe Biden to talk through why he supports a competitive primary for the Democratic nomination, according to two people familiar with the outreach. Biden didnt take the call, these people said.

The decision not to put the president on the phone  White House chief of staff Jeff Zients told Phillips that Biden was too busy to talk  encapsulates the incumbents approach to any challenges to his re-election bid: publicly indifferent and privately dismissive. With Phillips now expected to enter the presidential race on Friday by filing to be on the ballot in New Hampshire, Bidens aides have planned a tepid response.

The subtext is to frame Phillips candidacy as a vanity project for one of the wealthiest members of Congress. Biden aides also cheekily cast Phillips as a Democrat who has been closely aligned with the president and until recently did nothing to distance himself from the White House or some of its perks.

We appreciate the congressmans almost 100% support of this president, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday.

Andrew Bates, a spokesperson for the White House, echoed that message when asked about Phillips expected candidacy, saying when it comes to President Bidens official work, the administration appreciates that Congressman Phillips has voted for nearly 100% of the presidents legislative agenda. Bates also said in a statement that hes prohibited by law from commenting on the presidential race as well as primaries in Minnesotas 3rd congressional district  a not-so-subtle nod to Phillips newly complicated 2024 re-election effort for his House seat. Since suggesting hell challenge Biden, the congressman drew a primary opponent.

Phillips, whos serving his third term in the House after being elected in the Democratic wave of 2018, has for months called for a serious primary challenge to Biden. Hes pointed to Bidens low approval rating and polls showing many Americans, including Democrats, dont want Biden to seek re-election. And hes raised the presidents age  80  as a factor.

In an interview in August on NBCs Meet the Press, Phillips called Biden a wonderful and remarkable man but said its time for him to pass the torch to a new generation of Democratic leadership.

Polling shows many voters are concerned about the presidents age and Biden is essentially tied in a potential match-up with former President Donald Trump.

Earlier this month Phillips stepped down from his position in House Democratic leadership, given his position on the 2024 race, saying in a statement that he wanted to avoid unnecessary distractions during a critical time for our country.

Biden aides privately say Phillips has no rationale for his candidacy.

They note that in July, just weeks before calling Biden, Phillips was at the White House for an evening of bowling with Republican and Democratic lawmakers who are part of the Problem Solvers Caucus. They point out that hes flown on Air Force One at least once since Biden took office. And one Biden aide said that in recent weeks Phillips has been in touch with White House officials who handle legislative affairs about routine matters.

What kind of leadership could Phillips offer?" one person close to the White House said, when Biden is already the president.

The Biden campaign has so far been silent on Phillips likely campaign, but thats expected to change if he officially enters the race.

The Biden campaign announced Tuesday that the president would not file to be on the 2024 Democratic primary ballot in New Hampshire, but said he expects to be on the ballot for the general election.

The decision followed a plan released earlier this year by the Democratic National Committee to make South Carolina the first presidential primary voting state, rather than New Hampshire. Biden, whose victory in South Carolinas 2020 primary revived his floundering presidential campaign, recommended the shift. New Hampshire has not yet set its primary date.

Sources close to the White House said the president made the decision in part because New Hampshires voters are almost entirely white, compared with South Carolinas diverse electorate which he believes is more representative of the country.

Biden has faced other 2024 challenges from within the Democratic Party, including from author Marianne Williamson and anti-vaccine activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who recently switched his party affiliation to run as an independent. The presidents White House and campaign aides have largely ignored their candidacies.

When Phillips reached out to the president in August, he had already said publicly that he didnt think Biden should run for re-election. But he was poised to sharpen his argument  and ramp up speculation that he might challenge Biden  in upcoming interviews, including on Meet the Press.

Zients returned Phillips call instead of the president and, according to one person familiar with the conversation, heard him out.

Ultimately, Zients told him that Biden is the best candidate to win in 2024 and finish the job in the White House, this person said. A second person familiar with the call said that implicit in Zients message was that Biden is the only Democrat who can beat Trump.

There was no follow-up call, but one person familiar with the outreach said Phillips could call Biden again before any formal announcement of a 2024 campaign.
If you read the news that Republicans have selected Rep. Mike Johnson to be the next speaker of the House, second in line to the presidency, and thought to yourself, Who is Mike Johnson, youre not alone.

The deeply conservative Louisiana Republican seems to have benefited from his low national profile and relative anonymity outside of the Capitol Building.

Even Sen. Susan Collins, the Maine Republican, noted she would need to Google the guy to learn more. Good luck to her. A name as common as Mike Johnson is not exactly Google-friendly.

He also appears to have benefitted from being one of former President Donald Trumps closest allies in Congress. He was among the Republicans chosen to serve on Trumps House legal team during impeachment proceedings.

House Judiciary Committee member, Rep. Mike Johnson, votes against the first of two articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump during the final moments of a hearing in the Longworth House Office Building on Capitol Hill, on December 13, 2019. - Chip Somodevilla/Pool/AP

Watching videos of Johnsons interviews and appearances at congressional hearings suggests he is not a fire-breathing partisan in the mold of House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan of Ohio or Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida. Johnson presents as even-keeled and thoughtful. But the record suggests he is no less partisan, particularly on issues of importance to Trump, like the 2020 election and Republicans effort to impeach President Joe Biden.

How conservative is he? CNNs KFile reports he once wrote in support of the criminalization of gay sex and said same-sex marriage was a danger to democracy.

Trumps support is telling; Johnson played a role after the 2020 election

On a host of issues, Johnson is an extremely conservative figure. But it may be most important to track his view of US democracy.

Johnson didnt just join efforts to challenge the 2020 presidential election  he orchestrated some of them, organizing fellow lawmakers to file a brief joining Texas and other red states that questioned the results in swing states won by Biden.

He was not among those outright alleging election fraud or conspiracy. In a December 2020 interview with the New Yorker  after the casting of electoral votes in state capitals but before their counting on January 6, 2021  he was talking about a desire to see the Supreme Court weigh in on the so-called independent state legislature theory in order to guide future elections. He also said in that interview that he was not prone to conspiracy theories.

But then, on January 6, Johnson was the first signatory on a statement explaining that he, along with 36 other House Republicans, would vote to sustain objections to the electors from key states Biden won because they felt the votes were made unconstitutional by accommodations officials made to voters during the pandemic.

On the morning of January 6, Johnson encouraged supporters, saying on social meda, We MUST fight for election integrity, the Constitution, and the preservation of our republic! It will be my honor to help lead that fight in the Congress today.

He again voted to reject Electoral College votes in the hours after the insurrection.

In this screenshot taken from a Congress.gov webcast, Rep. Mike Johnson speaks during a debate session to ratify the 2020 presidential election on January 6, 2021. - Getty Images

Most Republicans on Capitol Hill are tired of talking about this, Johnson included

He declined to answer a question Tuesday night about his role in objecting to the 2020 results. The assembled lawmakers standing behind him booed the reporter who asked it.

There will be more immediate issues for Johnson to deal with as speaker, like figuring out how to work with Senate Democrats and Biden to fund the government by the time current funding runs out November 17.

The 2020 election remains a key issue, however, since Trump is the front-runner for the GOP nomination in 2024. Trump has made pretty clear that winning the White House back is a key part of his criminal defense strategy as he faces state and federal charges for trying to overthrow the election.

Its also important since Jordan of Ohio, Trumps first pick for speaker, failed in his own bid because he could not win the support of key 2020 election believers in the GOP and Republican moderates.

Why is Johnsons election denialism different?

Rep. Ken Buck of Colorado, a conservative, opposed Jordan specifically because the Ohio Republican had been unwilling to publicly acknowledge the 2020 results.

When CNNs Abby Phillip asked Buck why he opposed Jordan for election denialism but is an enthusiastic supporter of Johnson, Buck noted that Jordan was actively in contact with the White House on January 6, which he cited as election denialism in their highest degree.

PHILLIP: So, you think its OK for (Johnson) or any other speaker candidate to have voted to decertify the last election, which was free and fairly won by Joe Biden?

BUCK: I dont think its OK, Abby. I think its a mistake. But I think people make mistakes and still can be really good speakers. Were at a point now where we need to move forward and make sure the government stays open, that we fund Israel, we fund Ukraine, we fund the border efforts, and thats going to take a human being in that speaker position, not a perfect human being, but a Mike Johnson who has done his very best to move issues forward and is a really good person.

Bucks answer to Phillips pushback suggests that theres also an element of just plain needing to solve this and get a speaker installed.

Reps. Jim Jordan, right, and Mike Johnson speak with reporters in the Senate subway after the first day of the impeachment trial of former President Donald Trump in the Capitol in Washington, DC, on February 9, 2021. - Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call/Getty Images

Johnson and Jordan are often in the same space

Bucks distinction between Jordan and Johnson on election denialism is a valid one. But that does not mean that Johnson isnt coming from a similar point of view as Jordan. They work on many of the same issues.

Biden impeachment. Before the speakers race, Johnson, who sits on the House Judiciary Committee, was featured in CNN stories about the effort to impeach Biden.

Weaponization of government. He has also featured prominently in efforts to argue that Democrats have tried to weaponize the government against conservatives. Johnson, along with Jordan, sits on a special committee empaneled to investigate the issue and has posted multiple clips about the role to his feed on X.

An anti-abortion rights activist

On other issues, Johnson may be to the right of Trump and far to the right of much of the country. While Trump has said he would try to bring about some kind of compromise on the issue of abortion, Johnson is a committed opponent of abortion rights and introduced a bill that would define life as beginning at conception, which could be a step on the path to a nationwide ban on abortions. He introduced a bill to criminalize the leaking of Supreme Court draft decisions after the draft of Justice Samuel Alitos opinion overturning Roe v. Wade was leaked last year.

The Louisiana Republican, who has gotten the highest rating from anti-abortion groups, also introduced a resolution condemning what was described as attacks and intimidation on abortion opponents after the decision and posted video of his aggressive questioning of abortion rights activists at House hearings.

The personal politics of a speaker are important, and the last three weeks without one have shown the wide array of views just within the GOP. But the speakers larger role is to lead the House so that it can pass legislation and keep the government running. Johnsons capabilities on that front remain completely unknown.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Amina Noor arriving at the Old Bailey (Lucy North/PA) (PA Wire)

A British woman has been found guilty of handing over a three-year-old who was subjected to female genital mutilation in a legal first.

Jurors were told Amina Noor, 39, took the toddler, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to Kenya in 2006 where the procedure was carried out.

A court heard the girl, who was not told what would happen to her, cried for the whole night after the procedure.

On Thursday, Noor was found guilty of assisting a person to mutilate a girls genitalia while outside the UK, contrary to the FGM Act of 2003, following a week-long trial at the Old Bailey. She was granted conditional bail and is due to be sentenced on 20 December.

Prosecutors have said the conviction, which is the first of its kind, sends a clear message over the practice of FGM, which is shrouded in secrecy. Noor is also only the second person to be found guilty of any offence under FGM laws, which brings a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison.

During the trial, prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said Ms Noor travelled by tuk-tuk to a clinic at a private house in the east African country, where the girl was taken into a room on her own by a woman whose medical qualifications were not known.

The girl, who was born in Britain, was not told what would happen to her or was too young to understand.

Whilst they were there, she took [the girl] to the house of Kenyan woman, where [the girl] was subjected to female genital mutilation (FGM), she told the court.

Afterwards, the toddler was quiet but later cried the whole night, complaining of pain when she went to the toilet.

The incident was not reported until 2018, when the girl  then aged 16  confided in an English teacher who contacted the authorities.

During a medical examination at a London hospital in 2019, doctors confirmed the girls clitoris had been fully removed.

The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey (Nick Ansell/PA) (PA Archive)

Jurors heard the defendant was born in Somalia and moved to Kenya at the age of eight during the civil war in her home country. She was 16 when she came to the United Kingdom and was later granted British citizenship.

The court was told that 94 per cent of women of Somali origin living in Kenya undergo FGM, according to United Nations figures.

In a police interview in 2019, Noor, who denied the charge, said she had expected the child to undergo Sunnah, which she said was the insertion of a needle in the genitalia to draw blood, but insisted she did not know her clitoris would be removed.

She said that it was a quick procedure and that although [the child] had cried when it was carried out, she was happy and able to run around and play afterwards, Deer told the court.

However, she said did not check the childs wound, nor did she want to, the court heard.

Giving evidence, Noor, from Harrow, northwest London, told jurors she feared she would have been disowned and cursed if she did not hand over the child.

She said: I didnt know whether this was going to be something that is harming (the girl) but I did not want to allow it whatever it might be. I was told I would be cursed if I refuse.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino, who works in the CPS London Complex Casework Unit, hailed Noors conviction as sending a clear message on FGM, and urged other survivors to come forward. She said: This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about whats actually happened to them.

It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesnt matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.

She added: Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, its often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of whats happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.

Amina Noor, 39, was giving evidence at her trial at the Old Bailey in London (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Archive)

In a statement outside court, Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said: I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to, to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.

Responding to landmark case, an FGM campaigner called for urgent updates to outdated statistics for women and girls affected in England and Wales. Figures dating from 2014 estimate there are 137,000 impacted by FGM.

Nimco Ali, FGM survivor and cofounder of Five Foundation, a global partnership to end FGM, said: I underwent FGM at age 7, so I know this girls pain. When I told my teacher in Manchester, very little could be done to help me or others like me, who were affected by FGM.

Thankfully, things have changed so much in the last decades, following the work we have done to improve laws and policies, and get this issue out of the shadows and onto the front pages of national media.

It is incredible that the mandatory reporting by teachers and health care professionals - that we have fought hard for - is starting to pay off. A girl was obviously failed. She was let down by the system, but she got some form of justice today, thanks to the policies that we now have in place.

She added: We have to address FGM in the UK and everywhere by working together to address the root causes of the issue. The next step is getting a clearer sense of the number of women and girls who are affected here.
Like the eyeball-topped pyramid on the dollar bill and the Eyesore on I-4, my 2023 LaCroix tower is unfinished entering the closing chapter of hurricane season.

Forged can-by-can at WeatherTiger World HQ in the crucible of late-night forecasting as storms threaten, I pessimistically gave this years edifice a wide base in the wake of Idalia.

Fortunately, the lack of U.S. landfall threats in the second half of the season has left that refreshing LCX in the office fridge and the prospective heights of the pyramid unrealized.

WeatherTiger charts the threat level of hurricane seasons by building LaCroix towers and adding each can that's consumed as storms threaten.

A 10% chance of a Florida storm strike is still a chance

Before I dig into the mailbag and answer your questions, we must still grapple with the potential for more cans and thus more problems over the next few weeks.

While the historical frequency of landfalls drops off entering deep fall, the #1 hit song in America right now is Cruel Summer, so the normal progression of seasons may no longer apply. Every hurricane season is unhappy in its own way, and a named storm strikes the continental U.S. in about 10% of Novembers.

The only active storm on the map is Tammy, now southeast of Bermuda in the open Atlantic after winging the northeastern Lesser Antilles over the weekend as a Category 1. Tammy has since peaked as a Category 2, but increasing shear will cause it to weaken and transition to a post-tropical cyclone over the next few days.

Tammys remnants may stagger around the Atlantic like a drunk Frankenstein (the doctor, not the monster) into next week, but it should have no land impacts other than Bermuda.

The other area to keep an eye on is the Caribbean, where most late-season U.S. threats originate. While there is nothing there now, next week the interaction between a tropical wave and the tail end of a front that will cross Florida on Monday may trigger an increase in showers and storms. With low shear and weak steering currents in the Caribbean to the south of western Atlantic ridging, this disturbance may have time to slowly develop into a tropical storm over the first week of November.

If something forms, it would more than likely either continue west into Central America or escape northeast into the Atlantic across the Greater Antilles. However, if the timing of development and steering fronts comes up snake eyes, this theoretical storm could hypothetically threaten Florida. Ill keep an eye on it but am not too concerned at this point.

It's time go to our mailbag: Your hurricane questions answered

With that, its time to play our annual game of Stump the Tiger. This year, you kept it pithy with your questions, so lets go straight to the Lightning Round.

I've lived here for 35 years and it seems to me that most hurricanes that hit western Florida have a distinct trend of "eastern misprediction." That is, the predictions will slowly over the days shift more and more to the west If they originally show a track going over Tallahassee, it will ultimately hit Panama City or Pensacola. Obviously and fortunately, this didn't apply to this summer's hurricane! Am I just crazy?  Thomas

Much madness is divinest sense to a discerning eye, Thomas. That east bias is real and has been caused by models underestimating the strength and persistence of subtropical ridging. For instance, the tracks of Ivan (2004) and Irma (2017) shifted notably westward with time on approach to Florida. However, biases only are predictable if the guts of the computer model are unchanged; with recent upgrades to the American models, this tendency is either gone or much reduced. In fact, the GFS and other U.S. computer guidance were too far west with both Ian and Idalia, so it may be time to retire that piece of hurricane folk wisdom.

Who wrote the first report on a hurricane?

We dont know if Mayan meteorologists ever responded to When will the wrath of sky-god Hunraqan hit my house? queries, but the first recorded hurricane forecasts were issued by Cuban priest Benito Vines in the 1870s. Padre Vines used cloud trajectories to infer the location and motion of hurricanes across the Caribbean, established a network of weather observation sites, and issued life-saving warnings decades ahead of his American counterparts.

What future American politician wrote about his experience with a hurricane in the Caribbean?

That would be ten-dollar Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, whose teenage symphony to a 1772 tempest in St. Croix led a moved citizenry to provide funds for his education in the colonies. The rest is history.

What's your opinion on the causes of recent rapid intensification (48-24 hrs) of major U.S. landfalling hurricanes?

There is quite a bit of observational evidence and a strong theoretical argument for Michael- and Idalia-like rapid intensification into landfall becoming more common than even a few decades ago as oceanic heat content rises. Warm waters cant create a hurricane from nothing, and atmospheric conditions will always act as a check, but its a good bet that a category or two worth of intensity for recent high-end U.S. landfalls can be attributed to significant trends warmer in the Gulf and elsewhere.

Can you name all the LaCroix flavors?

No. Several classified LCX flavors are written on page 42 of the Book of Secrets, and thus only known to U.S. presidents and Nic Cage.

Will the Seminoles make the playoffs this year?

In the illustrious words of my academic adviser, never make a forecast you dont need to. However, I predict conditions will be highly unfavorable for Hurricanes in the vicinity of Tallahassee on Nov. 11.

The final quandary of the week is whether this column will actually be my last one until late Novembers season-in-review. In two of the past three years, I have tried to sign off about now and soon been dragged back to active duty by a November threat.

This time around, I wont say goodbye, just a generally applicable thanks to all you Weather Fans for watching the skies with me this year. Heres looking forward to the day in the not-too-distant future that the pyramid cans, like all my jokes, are triumphantly recycled.

Ryan Truchelut, WeatherTiger

Dr. Ryan Truchelut is chief meteorologist at WeatherTiger, a Tallahassee start-up providing forensic meteorology and expert witness consulting services, and agricultural and hurricane forecasting subscriptions. Get in touch at ryan@weathertiger.com, and visit weathertiger.com for an enhanced, real-time version of our seasonal outlook.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Late Florida hurricane season tracker: 10% chance of danger remains
It is afternoon in Israel, and South Bend native Dan Feferman says theres been a three-day break  fingers crossed  without a missile strike nearby.

Not daily anymore.

Three days without a siren to alert him, his wife and their three kids to scurry down from their eighth-floor apartment to the lower stairwells for shelter. They wait for the strike, for the building to shake and then for 10 minutes to let shrapnel rain from the sky.

Then they and the other tenants traipse back to their homes.

They dont venture out unless its truly necessary. But its happened a few times already that hes been driving his car when hes heard the bomb siren, pulled to the side of the road, ran from his car to a spot in the open  there is nowhere to hide  and cover his head. And pray.

It is a national PTSD moment, he says of the current war, speaking with The Tribune by phone.

South Bend native Dan Feferman lives with his family in Israel, where he is executive director of the peace-seeking organization Sharaka.

Feferman, 41, a graduate of Penn High School whod spent eight years in the Israeli army (now a major in the reserves), is executive director of Sharaka, a nonprofit organization that builds relationships between people of different cultures across the world to seek peace in the Middle East  a pursuit that terror has placed on hold.

The war began Oct. 7 when Hamas militants stormed from the blockaded Gaza Strip into nearby Israeli towns. Since then, thousands have reportedly been killed, including children, collectively on both sides.

Palestinian in South Bend: 'Such a contrast'

Here in South Bend, Ali speaks with The Tribune on a gloriously warm, sunny afternoon.

The Palestinian, now a local college student, explains how his daily morning and evening texts with his family in Gaza amount to brief accounts of survival: Were alive. We dont have electricity. We have a bit of food left. Once, his brother texted at 2 a.m. (Gaza time) that the explosions were growing intense  fearful that their neighborhood could be carpet-bombed like others had been.

There are no sirens or warnings for the occasional daily air strikes. Or for the constant artillery.

I dont know what to feel, Ali, who recalls living there during a time of conflict, says. Im here enjoying the weather. Its fall. Its beautiful outside. Its such a contrast.

When The Tribune asked both men how peace might be achieved in the 75-year Israeli-Arab and Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is a hard thought at such an intractable time. But both men essentially say: See us a humans. Look beyond the statistics, the thousands whove died. Both use the words human dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Its something weve talked about a long time, but it is not practiced, Ali says. I dont think people understand the situation or how grave it is.

Both men dont think the world fully grasps whats going on. Even this story is likely understated.

Ali is not his real name. He requested that The Tribune didnt identify him out of concern that his views could hurt his chances for long-term immigration status in the United States.

Back home, if he wanted to leave Gaza, he had to arrange it six months in advance, and it had to be for something like education or chemotherapy. It had to be documented and checked.

You cant just leave Gaza for whatever reason you want, he says. Its total restriction.

Even before the war, he counted himself lucky because he had a stable job. Unlike others, he didn't scramble to exist from day to day without any real income.

All of his family lives in Gaza. Many are in a single-family home. On the wars first day, his siblings returned home from their college in Gaza, only to have their college homes bombed just days ago. Some relatives near the northern border had to flee. He also has relatives in the zone where evacuations were ordered, but, he says, Since they have nowhere else to go, they decided to stay.

Ali took part in an Oct. 11 rally that drew 80 to 100 people in front of the Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend, calling for peace in solidarity with Palestinians. Some members of a local Jewish synagogue attended, he says.

But, because he feels that people dont fully understand the situation, he doesnt care to talk about the war with his local cohorts and friends.

From Israel: Seeking dialogue

Feferman, whose father, Bob, is community relations director for the Jewish Federation of St. Joseph Valley, moved to Israel in 2005 after finishing college at Indiana University and then the American University in Washington, D.C. Prior to the war, hed travel to various parts of the U.S. once a month or every other month.

Bob Feferman: Viewpoint: Hamas and Iran are the enemies of peace

Before the war, he says, Youd get used to living with terror in the background.  We all know someone who is a victim of terror.

Until the war, that terror was relatively under control.

Its scary, its startling, Feferman says of the present time. Its hard on the kids.

Ages 8, 12 and 14, he says he tries to shield his kids from seeing the most horrifying aspects, but they know from the news that hundreds of kids have been killed. Schools closed as soon as the war began and moved to classes on Zoom, though, just recently, he says kids in the youngest grades returned to school because they were having trouble with virtual learning.

They live in Rehovot, Israel, nearly 50 miles from Gaza, or an hour and a half drive. He considers themselves lucky because they arent like some Israelis who had to flee their homes, now refugees in hotels, guest houses and apartments nearer to the conflict who endure multiple missile attacks each day.

Theres a big feeling of vulnerability, he says. We see so much of the world supporting Hamas.  We see people at universities shouting death to Israel.

And it's hard for him not to recall how the Jewish Holocaust in Europe ended only nearly 80 years ago.

The name of his organization, Sharaka, is Arabic for partnership. The war has put all of its programs on hold.

We are about building dialogue, relationships and education between people in the Arab and Muslim world and Israel, he says. It introduces Israel to the majority of the Muslim world that is open minded.

Rather than high-level national leaders, Sharaka works with influencers in civil society, including, for example, journalists and religious leaders.

But he says so much of the problem, there and around the world, is based on a lack of knowledge. Everyday Palestinians suffer as a result, he says. He recalls a Palestinian woman in Gaza who recently tried to organize a peaceful virtual meeting with Israelis. He says she was arrested, tortured and placed in jail for six months.

Peace, he says, is about changing mindsets and relating to each other for who they really are. As humans.

South Bend Tribune reporter Joseph Dits can be reached at 574-235-6158 or jdits@sbtinfo.com.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: South Bend native in Israel and Palestinian from Gaza talk war peace
A worker uses a crane to lift a roll of cellulose fiber product at the Foley plant in this 2012. Each roll can weigh up to 15 tons. Buckeye Technologies Inc. initiated a series of projects to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The Foley Cellulose mill in Perry, Florida, announced on Sept. 18, 2023, that Georgia-Pacific plans to permanently close the plant.

The small town of Perry, Florida will send a representative to a November conference in London in the hopes of finding a buyer for the Foley paper mill in a bid to save 525 mill jobs and up to another 1,500 in the North Florida logging industry.

The annual London Pulp Week Symposium attracts the international pulp industry to discuss the latest news related to extracting pulp from trees and processing it into thousands of consumer goods from fluffy bathroom tissues to flat-screen televisions.

The Taylor County Economic Development Authority thinks the industry insiders from places like Brazil, China, Norway, India and elsewhere gathering in London Nov. 6  10 would find the Foley mill an attractive buy if they knew it was for sale.

Theyre sending Bob Cate, who managed the plant for 20 years, to make the pitch.

The Foley Cellulose Mill in Perry, Florida, which is set to close in November.

The Foley mill is one of seven in the world capable of dissolving pulps cellulose fibers into chemicals used in the manufacturing of cell phones and acetate products, and as an additive in ice cream and shredded cheese.

The London symposium kicks off with a full day of meetings on Foleys specialty  Monday, Nov. 6 is dissolving pulp day  and Cate will be there looking for a buyer.

There's 97 people who will be in the meetings that day. They represent all the major manufacturers of dissolving pulp in the world. There's only five. Its a very small market, said Cate.

And Cate knows many of them, having competed with them for suppliers and customers and at industry functions during his 44 year career in the pulp business including as an executive at Foley under both Proctor Gamble Buckeye Cellulose and then Georgia Pacific.

What Im trying to do is let the world know the mill is available, its condition, its technological age and that it is capable of making certain products. And I can do that because Im the retired plant manager, said Cate, who is a member of the Citizens Action Task Force organized to keep the plant open.

The Task Force is counting on Florida Department of Commerce Secretary and Enterprise Florida CEO Laura DiBella to join Cate in London and tell the potential buyers how the state of Florida will sweeten the purchase with economic incentives.

Commerce has connected a half dozen potential buyers to Georgia Pacific and has discussed with them possible tax deferrals, infrastructure money and job training programs as enticements.

"However, a formal incentive package isnt something that happens until a prospective company starts proposing firm details, like their proposed capital investment and job creation," said Rose Hebert, the department's director of communications.

Trees are unloaded by a crane at Buckeyes Foley plant in Taylor County in 2012. The Foley Cellulose mill in Perry, Florida, announced on Sept. 18, 2023, that Georgia-Pacific plans to permanently close the plant.

Are you a Perry mill employee or former employee who is willing to share your story?Contact reporter James Call at jcall@tallahassee.com

Georgia Pacific gave its workers and North Florida a six-week notice in September it would close its Foley plant by mid-November.

On a recent Monday, the employees parking lot at the mill along the Fenholloway River was nearly empty. A company spokesman did not respond when asked how many people have been laid off, but did say GP was committed to a safe and orderly shutdown and it would be completed by Nov. 16.

The mill is the main economic driver in a county where 22,000 people live among 525,000 acres of forested land. It had a $77 million payroll, created a $377 million economic impact for the county, and paid more than $9.9 in local and state taxes, according to a University of Florida study.

Within a day of Georgia Pacific announcement about two dozen former mill executives who remained in Taylor County organized into the Citizens Action Task Force. Cate flew down from North Carolina where he retired, and the group did an assessment of the plant, talked to current and former workers, and did a market analysis.

They firmly believe the mill can be a profitable operation.

Calculating the cost: The staggering numbers behind Perry paper mill closing: 2,000 jobs, $10 million in taxes lost

An empty log truck drives away from the Buckeye Florida pulp mill near Perry in this file photo. The mill grinds pine trees to produce cellulose that is used in products including food thickeners and automotive filters. The Foley Cellulose mill in Perry, Florida, announced on Sept. 18, 2023, that Georgia-Pacific plans to permanently close the plant.

That plant has been profitable for 60 of its 70 years. It was only in the last 10 years it had any difficulty. We dont think there is anything that would prohibit a new owner from coming in and operating profitably, said Dan Simmons, a former Foley executive and task force member.

Georgia Pacific bought the plant in 2013. Cate suggests it's parent company, Koch Industries, miscalculated.

Georgia Pacific's focus, he said, is more on fluffing pulp for toilet paper and diapers, not dissolving it into a chemical for high-tech electronics and other consumer goods.

Georgia Pacific did not respond to questions about the decision to close the plant, but a spokesman did say the mill will be left in "a sellable condition."

Michele Curtis worked 35 years at Foley. She retired 10 years ago as the wood supply manager, in charge of purchasing 550 semi-trailer loads of wood daily.

She thinks a lot is riding on Cates trip to London but is optimistic about the story he will tell.

Taylor County has the wood, the skilled labor force, the water, the equipment, and the environmental permits needed to make the Foley mill a profitable operation, she said.

Michele Curtis, a forester and leader of the Citizens Action Task Force in Taylor County, speaks during the public comment portion of a legislative delegation meeting on Monday, Oct. 23, 2023.

But time is of the essence, a buyer willing to put up around $2 billion needs to be found before the permits expire, the equipment falls into disrepair, the workers move away, and the natural resources are diverted to other uses.

London is our chance to make it happen. If its going to happen, thats where it is going to happen. These are the people who have the money to do it. And they have the knowledge to know the potential, said Curtis.

James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com and is on X as @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Perry, Florida pins hopes on international buyer for closing paper mill
NEWPORT  With early voting underway, Democrat Gabe Amo has a comfortable lead over his Republican opponent Gerry Leonard in the race for Rhode Island's open 1st Congressional District seat, according to a newly released poll commissioned by the Pell Center at Salve Regina.

If the election had been held during the mid-October polling period, Amo would have beaten Leonard 46% to 35%, with the caveat that 15% said they were still undecided at that point. (Another 4% reported no plans to vote.)

Digging deeper, the poll found the biggest bloc of undecided voters were those identifying themselves as independents.

Among independents  also known as "unaffiliated voters"  Leonard had a hair-thin 26%-25% lead, but 38% were still undecided.

The survey was conducted by Embold Research Oct. 12 to 17 of 887 registered voters statewide.

What else did the poll find?

The questions about the Amo-Leonard contest to succeed David Cicilline in the U.S. House of Representatives were only posed to 380 people living in the 1st Congressional District, which runs along the eastern half of the state from Jamestown to Woonsocket. The assigned margin for error: 3.3%.

Among the other findings: Leonard, a retired Marine, does best among voters aged 50 to 64. Amo  a Raimondo-era staffer who also worked for the Obama and Biden White Houses  led every other age group.

The survey may have had a slight Republican tilt to it.

According to information provided by the Pell Center, 36% of those surveyed were "base Democrats," 20% were "base Republicans" and 44% independents or those who said they leaned that way.

(By way of comparison, Democrats make up 46% of the registered voters in the 1st Congressional District, Republicans,12% and Independents, 42%, according to the secretary of state's voter registration page.)

Asked to define the categories reflected in the poll, Kathryn Langford Sonder, the associate director of the Pell Center, said: "Various ways to split the data. Respondents were asked to choose one of the following identifications: strong Democrat, weak Democrat, independent lean Democrat, pure independent, independent lean Republican, weak Republican, or strong Republican."

"Base Democrats (36%) are the combination of strong and weak Democrats; base Republicans (20%) are the combination of strong and weak Republicans; and independents (44%) are the combination of independent lean Democrat, pure independent, independent lean Republican," she explained.

Elaborating on the methodology, she said: "The survey was administered via the web using ads and was not incentivized. Embold Research uses an AI tool to conduct dynamic online sampling to ensure a representative pool of respondents on the front end. This means there is little weighting that needs to be done after the survey is closed, which makes the margin of error smaller."

As of Wednesday, 7,119 voters had cast their ballots early in-person or by mail ballot.

In November, the Pell Center plans to publish other findings of the survey, which "compare(d) Rhode Islanders opinions to national data on the health of U.S. democracy, the contributors to political polarization,and the impact of misinformation."

This was the Pell Centers first statewide survey.

"We conducted the survey as part of our research agenda of U.S. political polarization ...[and] we chose to do the survey now because its a few weeks before the special election and almost one year before the presidential election," Pell Center spokeswoman Erin Barry told The Journal.

She said Embold "conducted the survey via the web (computer response gathering)."

"Only residents of district 1 were...asked about the special election. First they were asked: If the November 2023 special election for U.S. House Rhode Island District 1 representative were held today, who would you vote for? If the respondent answered not sure, they were prompted again: If you had to choose, who would you vote for?"

"The survey over-sampled Republicans to a degree but still has an academic-level margin of error," she said.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI CD1 special election polling: Amo has comfortable lead
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Speaker Mike Johnson called up a resolution supporting Israel in his first action as leader of the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, after a three-week leadership vacuum that left the Republican-led chamber unable to respond to the Middle East crisis.

"The first bill I'm going to bring to this floor in a little while will be in support of our dear friend Israel and we are overdue in getting that done," Johnson said as he accepted the speakership.

The House backed the resolution by 412 to 10, with six members voting "present," reflecting traditional strong support in Congress for the Jewish state. The non-binding measure reaffirms U.S. commitment to Israel and calls on Hamas to immediately cease attacks and release every hostage.

Nine of the no votes were from Democrats, some of whom said they opposed the resolution since it did not address the loss of Palestinian lives, and one from a Republican. All six of the "present" votes came from Democrats.

The House had been without a speaker since Oct. 3, when eight Republicans joined Democrats to oust Kevin McCarthy, the first time a U.S. speaker has been removed from the position. Johnson, a social conservative with little leadership experience, was elected speaker on Wednesday.

The Johnson-led House must soon address a measure that would have the force of law. Democratic President Joe Biden asked Congress last week to pass a $106 billion funding package including billions of dollars in assistance for Ukraine, Taiwan and border security in addition to $14.3 billion for Israel.

Johnson's elevation muddied prospects for that broad funding request. Like many other Republicans closely allied to former President Donald Trump, the new speaker has been an opponent of Ukraine aid. A "report card" by the conservative "Republicans for Ukraine" campaign gave Johnson an "F Very Poor" rating based on his past votes against assistance for Kyiv in its fight against Russia.

Johnson said on Wednesday he backed aid for Ukraine "with conditions." He told reporters, "We're working through it. We want accountability and we want objectives that are clear from the White House. But we're going to have those discussions. It'll be very productive."

In the Middle East, war broke out on Oct. 7 with an attack on Israel by Palestinian Hamas militants who killed 1,400 people and took another 200 hostage, Israel has said. Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed over 6,500 people in Gaza, the health ministry in the Hamas-run strip said. Reuters was unable to verify those figures independently.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; additional reporting by David Morgan; editing by Deepa Babington and Cynthia Osterman)
Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman of New York has been charged by the DC attorney general with triggering a fire alarm in a House office building when there was not an emergency.

Bowman has been summoned to appear in DC Superior Court 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, where the congressman is expected to plead guilty. He will also be booked, fingerprinted and processed on the misdemeanor charge.

If he abides by conditions of a deal with the DC attorney generals office, including three months of probation, the misdemeanor charge will be dropped. The deal also requires Bowman to provide a formal apology to the US Capitol Police and pay a $1,000 fine for wrongly pulling a fire alarm, his office told CNN.

Im thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia Attorney Generals office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol Police General Counsels office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings, Bowman said in a statement Wednesday. I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped.

The DC attorney generals office said in a statement that Bowman was treated like anyone else who violates the law in the District of Columbia.

Based on the evidence presented by Capitol Police, we charged the only crime that we have jurisdiction to prosecute. He is pleading guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine, the office said.

Bowman was caught on tape pulling the fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building in late September, shortly before the House was scheduled to vote on a government funding bill. The building was subsequently evacuated.

The congressman said following the incident that it had been an accident.

I was trying to get to a door. I thought the alarm would open the door, and I pulled the fire alarm to open the door by accident, Bowman said at the time, adding: I was just trying to get to my vote and the door thats usually open wasnt open, it was closed.

In an interview with a USCP officer after the incident, Bowman said that he was attempting to exit the building when he pushed on a door and pulled the lever next to it, which must have been the alarm.

Bowman said that the door was a usual door he uses and that he did not intend to cause a security concern or disrupt the congressional proceeding, an affidavit written by the USCP officer states. The officer noted that there were several emergency exit signs posted at that door.

The defendant stated the door still did not open and he went to the first floor to exit, the affidavit states.

Bowman told the officer that he heard alarm sounds, according to the affidavit, and that he was hurried because votes were called, and he did not want to miss the votes to keep the government funded. He did not tell anyone about what had happened despite walking past several USCP officers immediately after the incident, it said.

This story has been updated with additional details.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Phoenix Mecano delivered a strong operating performance in the first nine months of 2023. Despite an economic slowdown, the Group was able to grow organically and further increase profitability. The remaining operations of the Rugged Computing business area were sold. The solid balance sheet and increased cash flow generation through divestments mean that the Group is able to launch a share buyback programme worth up to CHF 30 million. Despite the tougher macroeconomic environment, Phoenix Mecano still expects to achieve the announced EBIT increase of at least 10%.

Kloten/Stein am Rhein, 26 October 2023

The final transaction to fully divest the Rugged Computing business area was completed in the United States this week. For this reason, Phoenix Mecano has decided to bring forward the publication of its third-quarter results, which was scheduled for 2 November, to today.



The Phoenix Mecano Group's divisions performed well overall in the first nine months of 2023. The DewertOkin Technology Group division continued to gain momentum in its return to profitability and the Enclosure Systems division recorded further high-level growth. The Industrial Components division, meanwhile, felt the effects of the deteriorating economic environment. Overall, the Phoenix Mecano Group was able to maintain sales, despite the disposal of Phoenix Mecano Digital Elektronik and Phoenix Mecano Digital Tunisie, and so achieve organic growth. The Group's profitability increased further.

In the first three quarters of 2023, the Phoenix Mecano Group's consolidated gross sales fell slightly by 1.0% from EUR 606.9 million to EUR 600.6 million. Organic growth in local currency was 5.6%. Net sales stood at EUR 594.6 million (previous year: EUR 600.5 million) while incoming orders declined from EUR 620.6 million to EUR 586.9 million, although they also rose organically by 5.4%. The book-to-bill ratio for the first nine months was 97.9%.

The operating cash flow increased by 5.6% compared with the same period the previous year*, to EUR 64.6 million. The operating result rose by 13% year-on-year* to EUR 48.2 million.

At EUR 34.1 million, the result of the period was up 12.1% on the previous year (EUR 30.4 million*).

Division performance

In the DewertOkin Technology Group (DOT Group) division, sales in the first three quarters of 2023 were up 1.9% at EUR 246.8 million. Adjusted for acquisitions and measured in local currency, the increase was 8.1%. Incoming orders rose by 18.9% to EUR 248.0 million. The operating cash flow totalled EUR 15.5 million (previous year: EUR 5.8 million) and the operating result was EUR 9.6 million (previous year: EUR -0.8 million).

These benchmark figures suggest that inventories in the global supply chains of furniture manufacturers are gradually normalising and that consumer demand is picking up at a low level. The revival of markets coincides with a strengthened DOT Group, which is operating profitably despite low capacity utilisation. A performance enhancement programme is being launched to further accelerate the turnaround and sustainably increase the DOT Group's profitability. This will result in exceptional expenses of around EUR 4 million in financial year 2023, offset by expected annual cost savings of around EUR 2.5 million.

In the Industrial Components division, the first nine months of financial year 2023 saw gross sales drop by 9.8% to EUR 174.2 million (previous year: EUR 193.1 million) and incoming orders decline by 26.9% to EUR 167.7 million (previous year: EUR 229.5 million). Organically, gross sales increased by 2.4%, while incoming orders fell by 7.2%. The operating cash flow was down 25.8%* at EUR 17.7 million and the operating result declined by 27.1%* to EUR 13.1 million. By concentrating on the newly streamlined portfolio following this year's divestments, Phoenix Mecano expects continuous profit increases in this division in the coming years.

The number of projects and enquiries relating to electromechanical and measurement technology components for renewable energy applications remained at a consistently high level. In Europe, sales companies generated high order volumes of modular solutions for industrial automation and for use in robotic peripherals.

By contrast, customers close to the mechanical engineering industry began to postpone orders and scale back inventories. As a result, orders on hand were reduced and, accordingly, the production capacities of some Phoenix Mecano subsidiaries were immediately adjusted on a selective basis.

In the Enclosure Systems division, gross sales in the first three quarters of 2023 rose by 4.7% to EUR 179.6 million. Organically, the increase was 5.4%. Incoming orders were down 6.2% at EUR 171.2 million. The operating cash flow was EUR 33.5 million (up 2.8%). The operating result rose from EUR 27.8 million to EUR 28.6 million (up 2.6%).

In this division too, mechanical engineering customers continued to reduce their inventories, but all business areas recorded further brisk activity in the strategic growth segments of automation and electromobility. Solutions involving industrial PCs and enclosures for power distribution in electric commercial vehicles have been in particularly high demand recently.

Divestment of the Rugged Computing business area



The remaining operations of the Rugged Computing business area, comprising the business activities of Orion Technologies, LLC, were transferred to a US-based industrial investor under an asset deal effective 25 October 2023. This final transaction means that the whole of the Phoenix Mecano Group's former Rugged Computing business area has now been sold. Orion Technologies generated sales of EUR 2.3 million in 2022 with a workforce of eight. The employees will retain their jobs.

Taking into account the goodwill from 2017 to be reclassified from equity to the statement of income in accordance with Swiss GAAP FER 30 in the event of a disposal and the transaction costs incurred, this results in a one-off book loss of just under EUR 6 million, which will impact the 2023 operating result but not the Q4 2023 cash flow and equity.

The Rugged Computing business area also included the companies Wiener Power Electronics GmbH, Wiener Power Electronics Corp. and Hartmann Electronic GmbH, whose sale was announced on 28 August 2023. This transaction is expected to result in a one-off gain of around EUR 12 million.

Overall, the one-off items, including the DOT Group performance enhancement programme, will have a slightly positive impact on operating result and a significantly positive impact on cash flow.

Share buyback programme

Over the past 12 months, Phoenix Mecano has reduced the Group's net indebtedness from around EUR 94 million to around EUR 32 million. The solid cash flow and income situation and the additional liquidity generated by divestments enable the Group to return funds that are not immediately required to shareholders in line with its long-term distribution policy. Phoenix Mecano's Board of Directors has therefore decided to launch a share buyback programme worth up to CHF 30 million. This will not compromise the Group's ability to invest or its future dividend payouts.

Phoenix Mecano plans to acquire shares with an equivalent value of up to CHF 15 million via a fixed-price procedure. The buyback programme will take place from 27 October 2023 until 10 November 2023, 12:00 noon, and the offer price per registered share with a par value of CHF 1.00 is CHF 367.00. This represents a premium of 4.9% compared with the closing price on 25 October 2023 and of 2.8% compared with the volume-weighted average price of the last five trading days.



The net buyback price is expected to be paid out on 14 November 2023. If the number of registered shares tendered for buyback exceeds the offer, the registered shares subject to the offer will be reduced proportionately.

Phoenix Mecano plans to subsequently launch another share buyback programme via a second trading line. The total volume of both share buyback programmes is expected to be up to CHF 30 million.



The Board of Directors intends to propose cancellation of the repurchased registered shares at future Shareholders' General Meetings, and to reduce the capital accordingly.

Zurcher Kantonalbank has been appointed to implement the buyback programme.

The terms of the share buyback programme are published on the company's website (www.phoenix-mecano.com) and on the website of the Swiss Takeover Board.

Outlook

The management and Board of Directors still expect to achieve an increase in operating result from continuing operations of at least 10% in 2023, excluding one-off expenses and gains. This would be Phoenix Mecano's best operating result in the past 20 years. The global economic slowdown has not left our Group unscathed. However, thanks to the growth and profit enhancement potential built up in recent years with the long-term trends of automation, digitalisation, decarbonisation and demographic change, Phoenix Mecano is on course to continue generating attractive added value for shareholders in the years ahead.

Results Q1  Q3 2023 (in EUR million)

1-9 2022* 1-9 2023 in % Incoming orders 620.6 586.9 -5.4 Gross sales 606.9 600.6 -1.0 per division: DewertOkin Technology Group 242.2 246.8 1.9 Industrial Components 193.1 174.2 -9.8 Enclosure Systems 171.6 179.6 4.7 Net sales 600.5 594.6 -1.0 Operating cash flow 61.2 * 64.6 5.6 Margin 10.1% * 10.8% Operating result 42.7 * 48.2 13.0 Margin 7.0% * 8.0% per division: DewertOkin Technology Group -0.8 9.6 1371.2 -0.3% 3.9% Industrial Components 18.0 * 13.1 -27.1 9.3% * 7.5% Enclosure Systems 27.8 28.6 2.6 16.2% 15.9% Other -2.3 -3.1 -30.8 Result of the period 30.4 * 34.1 12.1 Margin 5.0% * 5.7%

Results Q3 2023 (in EUR million)

7-9 2022 7-9 2023 in % Incoming orders 182.9 186.5 2.0 Gross sales 196.2 191.6 -2.3 per division: DewertOkin Technology Group 70.2 83.3 18.6 Industrial Components 67.2 53.3 -20.7 Enclosure Systems 58.8 55.0 -6.5 Net sales 194.1 189.7 -2.3 Operating cash flow 24.0 23.5 -2.2 Margin 12.2% 12.3% Operating result 17.8 18.0 0.9 Margin 9.1% 9.4% per division: DewertOkin Technology Group -1.1 5.8 652.0 -1.5% 7.0% Industrial Components 8.9 4.3 -51.6 13.3% 8.1% Enclosure Systems 10.4 8.7 -16.9 17.8% 15.8% Other -0.4 -0.8 -73.3 Result of the period 13.2 13.5 2.6 Margin 6.7% 7.1%



* Previous year's figures corrected by means of restatement

Phoenix Mecano, 26 October 2023, Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR
In May 2022, I wrote an op-ed for The Holland Sentinel on my visit with 12 Gwichin people who were talking to members of Congress in Washington, D.C. They were telling me about their love for their pristine homeland in the Canadian National Parks of Ivvavik and Vuntut in Yukon, Canada, and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska.

They are an ancient people who have been connected spiritually and physically to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for 20,000 years. They are a living portrait of what ancient hunter-gatherers look like.

For Alaskas Gwichin people, the Arctic Refuge is a critical part of both their community and their faith. The Gwichin people rely on the Porcupine Caribou as a primary source of food and their very survival. More than 70 percent of their diet comes from caribou. For them, the caribou is more than food and clothing; it is literally and spiritually who they are.

Richard Killmer

After my meeting with the Gwichin, a young man came up to me and showed me a photograph on his phone. He told me that in the foreground of the photo was his backyard. In the middle, he said, was a river. The beautiful land at the top of the photo, the man reported, is where the oil companies are going to drill for oil and gas. He told me that he was very sad thinking that his two boys were going to have to grow up so close to rigs that were going to extract oil and gas. I understood. I wouldnt want my children and grandchildren living in the backyard of oil rigs.

In 2017, President Trumps tax bill was supported by Congress and became the law of the land. It required that there be a sale of leases for drilling for oil and gas in the Arctic Refuge. In a study, the National Academy of Sciences concluded that oil development would harm wildlife and their habitats, especially the Porcupine Caribou herd in the Arctic Refuge.

The first sale of the leases was held in 2020. The next one will be in 2024. On Jan. 6, the Trump administration held the first lease sale for tracts on the 1.5 million-acre coastal plain of the Arctic Refuge, and the results were surprising. No major oil companies showed up to bid and only nine tracts were sold out of 22 offered. The sale generated only 1 percent of projected revenue, according to the government watchdog Taxpayers for Common Sense.

Several realities probably influenced the poor showing of fossil fuel companies at the lease sale. First, the future economic viability of fossil fuels is in question. Many automobile companies like General Motors and Ford have stated that they will only make electric vehicles after 2035, and most nations are committed to achieving net zero greenhouse-gas emissions at least by 2050. Second, financing oil exploration and drilling has become harder, with most of the large banks declaring that they will not lend money for drilling in the Arctic. Drilling in the Arctic Refuge is just not economically feasible.

In September 2023, the Biden Administration announced that it would prohibit drilling in 13 million acres of pristine wilderness in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska and cancel all drilling leases in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. However, the administration will abide by the provisions of the 2017 tax bill that require a second Arctic refuge lease sale by the end of 2024, according to an administration official.

The new regulations would ensure what the administration called maximum protections for nearly half of the petroleum reserve land but would not stop the enormous $8 billion Willow oil drilling project in the same vicinity, which President Biden approved this year. Climate activists, particularly young environmentalists, were angered by Mr. Bidens decision in March to allow the Willow project, calling it a carbon bomb. Many called the move a betrayal of Mr. Bidens campaign promise of no new drilling, period on federal lands and waters.

Since then, the administration has worked hard to reduce the carbon emissions that result from burning oil and gas and that are driving climate change.

We have a responsibility to protect this treasured region for all ages, Mr. Biden said in a statement. Canceling all remaining oil and gas leases issued under the previous administration in the Arctic Refuge and protecting more than 13 million acres in the western Arctic will help preserve our Arctic lands and wildlife, while honoring the culture, history, and enduring wisdom of Alaska Natives who have lived on these lands since time immemorial.

I am glad that my young Gwichin friends sons will not have to grow up next to an oil rig.

 Rev. Richard Killmer is a retired Presbyterian minister living in East Grand Rapids.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Richard Killmer: Biden cancels all drilling leases in the Arctic Refuge
Ron DeSantis is finally turning his fire on Donald Trump, though admittedly in a much more cautious manner than have some others.

The Florida governor was back on the campaign trail this week and spoke to reporters in New Hampshire on Tuesday, where alongside the states Republican governor he is attempting to capture some momentum and break out from the pack of Trump alternatives running for the GOP 2024 nomination.

This is a different Donald Trump than in 2015 and 2016, he told a small crowd of voters assembled in a restaurant, while claiming that the ex-president was wedded to the teleprompter.

In 2016, he was freewheeling, he's out there barnstorming the country, doing all this. Now, it's just a different guy, and it's sad to see, said the governor.

His campaign, eager to capitalise on the moment, quickly posted video of the remarks to Twitter/X.

This is a different Donald Trump from 2016. pic.twitter.com/ygyFCIsbq2  Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) October 24, 2023

Mr DeSantis launched his campaign earlier this year, and from the beginning has been plagued by criticism of underperformance in polls and claims that he is a bad candidate, referring to his sometimes awkward demeanour and inability to connect with voters on the ground. His polling numbers have remained largely unchanged since he entered the race, though they have dipped slightly in recent weeks as rival Nikki Haley has picked up steam.

The governors main issue  one he shares with every other Trump alternative in the race  remains the former presidents polling dominance, which has been a factor in the race since the beginning. Mr Trump is nearing consolidation of roughly six in 10 Republican voters, nationally, tilting the race decisively in his favour and leaving his opponents squabbling amongst themselves for the remaining oxygen.

The performances of Mr DeSantis and others have led to questions about whether the Trump-alternative candidates truly have the ability to effectively attack the races frontrunner. Many, including the governor in the past, have been outright deferential to the former president, especially on issues surrounding his growing legal jeopardy.

And complicating that matter is Mr Trumps refusal to attend the ongoing Republican debate series, an unheard of move for a major candidate but one that the former president has justified with that same polling lead. His campaign argues that the primary is already decided, and that Mr Trump would gain nothing by allowing other Republicans with little chance of winning to attack him live in front of the cameras.

In New Hampshire, Mr DeSantis is now barely in the top tier of candidates at all. He is currently languishing in third place on a FiveThirtyEight average of polls, and could easily see his campaign slip behind fourth-place contender Chris Christie given the close margin separating the two.
Springfield businessman Mike Hamra launched a campaign for governor on Thursday, promising to get Missouri back on track and becoming the second Democrat to enter the 2024 race.

The 55-year-old will compete for Democratic supporters with House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, a fellow Springfield resident who jumped into the race in July.

In addition to Quade, the race for governor in Missouri already features three of the states top Republicans Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and state Sen. Bill Eigel.

Im running for governor because I believe Im the best candidate to put our state on a path towards greater opportunity and prosperity, Hamra said in a phone interview. Missouri is a good place, but it could be a much better place.

Hamra is the CEO of Hamra Enterprises, a Springfield-based hospitality company that operates restaurants such as Wendys, Panera Bread and Noodles & Company locations.

In a phone interview, he touted his experience as the CEO of a family business. He said he has a love and passion for supporting people.

Asked about his campaign priorities, Hamra pointed to helping people find better job opportunities, particularly competitive wages and benefits. He also said the state needs to focus on schools, ensuring that Missouri kids receive a good education.

A press release announcing his campaign touted a need to make child care and health care more affordable. Hamra, in the release, also said he was in favor of restoring the right for women to make their own reproductive healthcare decisions  indicating that he would push against the states near-total ban on abortion.

Hamra, in the interview, declined to attack Quade, one of the most prominent Democrats in the General Assembly. During her time in office, she has been a strong advocate for abortion rights, gun reform and child care aid.

At the end of the day, I do feel like Im the best person for the job, he said, when asked about Quade.

Both of the Springfield Democrats will face an uphill battle to take the governors office. Republicans hold every statewide office and a supermajority in both chambers of the General Assembly. Then-Auditor Nicole Galloway was the last Democrat to win a statewide office back in 2018.

Galloway, viewed at the time as a serious contender to take the office, lost the 2020 race for governor to incumbent Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, by more than 16 percentage points. Parson terms out of office in 2025.

Hamra also declined to take shots at his Republican opponents, saying he didnt want to get involved in ideological bickering.

We need to stop all the political bickering and the mudslinging and we need to work to support people in the state of Missouri, he said.

Hamra has degrees from Ohio Wesleyan University, the University of Missouri School of Law and Kennesaw State University.

Before working in Missouri, Hamra lived in Washington, D.C., where he worked in the U.S. Department of Commerce in the Clinton Administration. He also served as chief of staff and legal advisor for the Federal Communications Commissions Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, according to his Linkedin profile.

Hamra and his wife, Eileen, live in Springfield with their four children and two rescue dogs.
Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) quipped Thursday that he may start looking for love by working in the office of a Republican colleague known for producing romantic unions.

Before getting to the agenda during a Senate Judiciary Committee executive business meeting, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) lauded efforts by lawmakers to reach across the aisle.

I think one of the things thats come out of these hearings that has been truly beneficial is bipartisan legislation, Hawley said.

Thats when Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) chimed in.

As long as were making bipartisan kudos, I want to make sure that we recognize that Sen. [Chuck] Grassleys office has been noted to be the hottest spot for people coming to Washington to find each other and get married, Whitehouse said.

Bravo, Chuck, Whitehouse added to the Iowa Republican.

Twenty marriages! Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) exclaimed of Grassleys matchmaking track record.

Mr. Chairman, Booker said to panel Chair Dick Durbin (D-Ill.).

After being recognized by Durbin, Booker cracked to laughs, Id just like to know if theres any job openings in Sen. Grassleys office?

Booker, one of the upper chambers bachelors, dated actor Rosario Dawson for more than two years before the pair split last year.

Senator, well have to get you an Iowa mailing address, Durbin told Booker.

Grassley, 90, told The Washington Post in a story last week on the staggering amount of I dos in his office that the first married couple met during his 1980 Senate campaign.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
As another medical marijuana dispensary prepares to open in Cuyahoga Falls, some residents are urging city leaders to stop others from coming to town.

Several residents attended Monday night's City Council meeting to ask for a ban on any new marijuana dispensaries within Cuyahoga Falls.

The latest marijuana dispensary is expected to open at 1682 State Road, which formerly housed Cashland, a personal loan and cash checking business.

The planned dispensary is owned by FRX Health, which has cultivation and processing operations in East Liverpool and in Farrell, Pennsylvania. FRX Health also has a dispensary in East Liverpool and expects to open another location in Elyria.

According to information from the company's website, the Cuyahoga Falls location is expected to open sometime this fall.

It will be the city's second dispensary, joining Curaleaf on Buchholzer Boulevard.

Some residents have set up a petition to ban future marijuana dispensaries, citing concerns about substance abuse, the impact on home values and the risk to children and teens.

Councilwoman Meika M. Penta, who represents Ward 3 where the dispensary is located, said she, too, has concerns about the facility and the compatibility with the neighborhood

"If the decision were mine to make, I would have shut it down," Penta said. "I did not want nor invited this particular kind of business in our area. The challenge we face as a city is that medical marijuana dispensaries were legalized by the state of Ohio, and this location has followed all applicable laws so far."

The Ohio Board of Pharmacy issues licenses to allow dispensaries to operate and sets limits on the number in each region.

Penta said she plans to work with the city to explore available options to address the residents' concerns.

Representatives from FRX Health could not be reached for comment.

New Cuyahoga Falls medical marijuana dispensary awaiting operating license

Edward Sturkey, a Cuyahoga Falls resident who lives near the dispensary, said he has concerns about marijuana dispensaries based on his background in the banking business and his job as a firefighter/paramedic.

He said banks typically don't give loans to marijuana dispensaries because of the federal government's position that marijuana is a Schedule 1 drug and is still technically illegal.

"Banks won't make loans to them due to this," he said.

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Schedule 1 drugs are those with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. Along with marijuana, other Schedule 1 drugs include LSD, heroin, Ecstasy and peyote.

Sturkey said as a paramedic, he has had to pick up and transport many individuals suffering from drug addiction.

Sturkey also accused medical marijuana companies of trying to attract children and teens into using their products.

"There's a reason why many of these products are sold as gummies and candies," he said.

Sturkey also compared marijuana dispensaries to payday loan businesses.

"These were not illegal, but they were immoral," Sturkey said of payday loan companies. "They preyed on the most vulnerable."

Because of council's actions, Sturkey said, payday loan companies no longer exist on State Road. In 2017, City Council backed a state bill to limit interest charged by payday lenders.

He urged the city to take similar action regarding the medical marijuana business in preventing more marijuana dispensaries from coming into the city.

Sturkey said he was not against the use of marijuana products for medical purposes but worried about the impact having a dispensary would have on drug use in children.

FRX Health still awaiting final operating license for Cuyahoga Falls location

Not all who spoke at Monday's meeting were opposed to the medical marijuana dispensaries.

Cuyahoga Falls resident Tom Sullivan said that the state permits the medical use for marijuana, and may possibly permit the recreational use of marijuana if Issue 2 is approved by voters in the general election. Issue 2, if passed Nov. 7, would allow for the cultivation, regulation, sale and possession of cannabis products for adults 21 and older.

"Nobody was hiding anything," Sullivan said to residents who said they were taken by surprised. "I knew this was coming in eight months ago."

He said that residents have been calling for more businesses to come to that part of State Road. "But now you are complaining."

The city published an FAQ on its website addressing residents' questions and concerns about the facility. According to information from the city, FRX Real Estate Holding Company of Ohio LLC purchased the property on June 10, 2022, for $280,000. Because the business is less than 8,500 square feet, it did not need approval from the city's planning commission or City Council.

"Our local zoning laws and regulations at that location allow retail sales and we currently have no legal grounds to stop it," the online FAQ stated. "This medical facility is also legally permitted under state law. The owners have chosen this location to open a legally operating business."

According to information from the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, a license was issued to FRX Health on May 17, 2022, and has an expiration date of Dec. 31.

Darcy Moulin, an attorney with the Ohio Board of Pharmacy, said that FRXHealth was part of the second round of requests for applications. The business has until Dec. 31 to complete additional requirements for the Division of Marijuana Control, which will do a final inspection of the facility.

Once FRX Health gets the final OK from the division, it will receive a certificate of operation.

Reporter April Helms can be reached at ahelms@thbeaconjournal.com

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Critics ask Cuyahoga Falls to ban new medical marijuana dispensaries
A threatening social media image reported by Cape Henlopen and Sussex Central high schools has been found to lack credibility, according to Delaware State Police who investigated the the matter.

The Sussex County schools reached out to police Wednesday afternoon about a concerning image of a gun and a threat to the schools that has been circulating on social media.

"The investigation revealed the image has been circulating nationwide for the last several years," police said in a statement Thursday morning. "At this time, the Delaware State Police has no intelligence indicating that the threat was credible."

Be mindful that the absence of intelligence does not mean the lack of a threat, police went on to say, adding people should call 911 to report suspicious activity.

Send tips or story ideas to Esteban Parra at (302) 324-2299 or eparra@delawareonline.com.

More: After scary gun incidents, Appoquinimink district to have weapons detection at stadiums

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: School threat reported by 2 Delaware high schools deemed not credible
Sony (SONY) is going into the 2023 holiday season with something it hasnt had in three years: a steady supply of its PlayStation 5 consoles. Yes, for the first time since the video game giant launched its PS5 in the fall of 2020, units will be readily available for consumers to grab off of store shelves or buy online.

We had supply challenges just like every other consumer product out there that uses the same chips that we use, and we couldn't get a PlayStation 5 to everybody that wanted one, Eric Lempel, SVP of global marketing, sales, and business operations for Sony Interactive Entertainment, told Yahoo Finance. But this is the first full year where we can do that.

Sonys Game and Network Services segment is the companys largest business by sales, taking in $24.3 billion of the companys $77 billion in total sales in its fiscal 2022. Its second-largest segment, Entertainment, Technology, and Services, took in $16.5 billion.

In August, in its most recent report, the company said Games and Network Services sales jumped 23% year over year thanks to an increase in PS5 hardware. Sony reports its latest earnings on Nov. 9.

'Marvel's Spider-Man 2' is expected to drive console sales this holiday season. (Sony) (Sony)

Our brand is in the best place it's ever been in the history of the company, Lempel said. [Theres] great momentum behind the brand. From everything we track in terms of desirability and pushing the category forward, consumers believe were the leader.

Sony and its rivals Microsoft (MSFT) and Nintendo (NTDOY) suffered severe supply shortages during the early days of the COVID pandemic, driven first by overwhelming demand and then a lack of available chips needed to power the systems.

With those shortages cleared up, however, the companies are on track to meet consumer demand this year. And for Sony, that couldnt come at a better time.

On Oct. 20, the company debuted its highly anticipated Marvels Spider-Man 2. Sony said it sold 2.5 million copies in its first 24 hours alone, making it the fastest-selling PlayStation Studio game in history.

A lot of consumers have been waiting for PlayStation 5 and a lot of them are waiting for specific games to make the jump to a PlayStation 5, and Marvels Spider-Man 2 is one of those games, Lempel said.

That will make a lot of people say, Okay, now is the time. So, we're feeling pretty bullish.

Sony, however, is now facing a stronger foe in the form of Microsoft thanks to that companys $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard. That makes titles like Call of Duty and World of Warcraft first-party games that directly benefit Microsoft.

Microsofts moves are part of its efforts to build out its subscription Game Pass service, which gives users access to console and PC games for a monthly fee, as well as the ability to cloud stream games.

Sony, however, is continuing to build out its own subscription PlayStation Plus service. Available in three tiers, the service, which starts at $9.99 per month, gives players access to online multiplayer, downloadable games, and, at its highest level of $17.99 per month, cloud gaming.

Sign up for the Yahoo Finance Tech newsletter. (Yahoo Finance)

So far, Lempel said, Sony is tracking ahead of its own forecasts for subscribers for the service.

While Sony is seemingly set for a strong holiday season, its not the only game in town. Microsofts Xbox Series X and Series S, not to mention Nintendos Switch, are all readily available now. Whats more, Microsoft launched its own major exclusive title, Starfield, in September.

Nintendo, meanwhile, debuted its Super Mario Bros. Wonder just last week.

In other words, this holiday season is shaping up to be one of the most interesting in some time. Game on.

Daniel Howley is the tech editor at Yahoo Finance. He's been covering the tech industry since 2011. You can follow him on Twitter @DanielHowley.

For the latest earnings reports and analysis, earnings whispers and expectations, and company earnings news, click here

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
Editor's Note: This page reflects Wednesday's news on the shooting in Maine. For the latest updates on the Maine mass shooting, please see our live updates file here for Thursday, Oct. 26.

Corrections & Clarifications: An earlier version of this story misstated the name of Just-In-Time Recreation, a recently renamed bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, because information provided by police was incorrect.

At least 16 people were killed Wednesday and dozens injured after a gunman opened fire in a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine, the latest mass killing in the U.S.

Authorities said the shooting started just before 7 p.m. Lewiston Police said that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation, a bowling alley.

The gunman remains at large Thursday. Police have warned people to be on alert and stay off the streets in Lewiston, the second-largest city in Maine, and other neighboring communities.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office later released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed a gunman walking into a bowling alley with a weapon raised to his shoulder. City residents reacted with shock and many businesses rushed to close and lock their doors upon hearing a gunman was on a rampage.

Melinda Small, the owner of Legends Sports Bar and Grill, said her staff immediately locked their doors and moved all 25 customers and employees away from the doors after a customer reported hearing about the shooting at the bowling alley less than a quarter-mile away around 7 p.m. Soon, the police flooded the roadway and a police officer eventually escorted everyone out of the building four at a time. Everyone in the bar is safe.

I am honestly in a state of shock. I am blessed that my team responded quickly and everyone is safe, Small told The Associated Press. But the same time, my heart is broken for this area and for what everyone is dealing with. I just feel numb.

The White House said President Joe Biden had been briefed on whats known so far about the mass shooting and will continue to receive updates.

"The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack," the White House said in a statement.

A spokesperson for the Maine Department of Public Safety urged residents to stay in their homes with their doors locked.

Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now, Shannon Moss said. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation.

"We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate," the sheriff's office announced.

Lewiston police department names 'person of interest'

Shortly before 11 p.m. ET, Lewiston police posted on its Facebook page a photo and the name of a 40-year-old man, Robert Card, who police say is a person of interest. Such a designation usually is made for a person wanted for questioning and is not considered officially as a suspect.

"Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening," the Facebook post read, using the previous name for Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley. "Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts.

The Associated Press, citing a state police bulletin, said Card is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility.

The police intelligence bulletin was being circulated to law enforcement officials on Wednesday night. It says that Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Vehicle of interest found in neighboring town

During a news briefing late Wednesday, Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said that Card is considered armed and dangerous.

A vehicle of interest was located in Lisbon, about 8 miles away from Lewiston, according to Sauschuck. The shelter-in-place order was extended to Lisbon while Lewiston and its twin city, Auburn, remained under lockdown.

Sauschuck declined to say how many people have been killed in the shooting incidents Wednesday.

"This is a very fluid situation," he said.

Schools will be closed Thursday

Public schools in Lewiston will be closed Thursday, the district's superintendent announced Wednesday night.

"There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately," Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais said in a statement on the district's website. "Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate."

Bates College, a private liberal arts school, is currently on lockdown and will remain on lockdown until local law enforcement advise otherwise, according to campus spokesperson Mary Pols.

We are focused on the safety and security of our students and the campus, Pols told USA TODAY.

Several campus events were canceled and businesses near the campus closed. In an update late Wednesday, the school said that the campus would remain open on Thursday but classes would be canceled.

"We know that these events have shocked and frightened our community. And we grieve for those whose lives were tragically lost in this heinous act of violence," Geoffrey Swift, vice president for finance and administration and treasurer for Bates College, said in a statement.

The college is home to about 1,800 undergraduate students, according to the schools most recent enrollment data.

News is developing: For more updates, sign up for the Evening Briefing.

Hospitals react to mass casualty event

On its website, Central Maine Medical Center said staff were reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and were coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients.

Mills said Wednesday evening she was aware of an active shooter situation in Lewiston.

I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials, Mills said.

The Boston Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives posted on X Wednesday evening that it was also responding to the situation in Lewiston.

Maine Medical Center, a Level 1 trauma center in Portland, has alerted on-call staff and created critical care and operating room capacity in preparation for potential patients from the shooting, the hospital said in a statement.

The hospital confirmed Wednesday that it was receiving one patient from the Central Maine Medical Center.

Out of an abundance of caution and due the dynamic nature of this situation, (Maine Medical Center) and other MaineHealth hospitals have closed their campuses to non-hospital personnel and non-patients until further notice, the hospital said.

Residents shaken, await word on loved ones

Anne Kinney, a resident of Auburn, Maine, a city about 30 miles northeast of Augusta, Maine, told the Lewiston Sun Journal that she was picking up a prescription in Lewiston Wednesday evening when she heard blaring over a loudspeaker telling us that there was an active shooter situation and that all entrance/exit doors were being locked.

Kinney said employees brought out chairs for them to sit in as they sheltered in place. She said authorities did not provide more information about the situation.

Later, a policeman arrived and advised store employees to let out customers one by one, to dim the lights, and close down the shop.

Kinney said she got home safely but felt very shaken.

Late Wednesday, Riley Dumont told ABC News that her 11-year-old daughter was bowling in a childrens league at Just-In-Time Recreation when she heard several shots. Dumonts father, a retired police officer, moved the family into a corner.

"I was laying on top of my daughter. My mother was laying on top of me," Dumont told ABC News.

Dumont said she saw three or four apparent victims of the gunfire.

Kathy Lebel, co-owner of Schemengees, where several people were shot, said she was not at the restaurant at the time of the shooting but was told that someone had walked in and started shooting. Lebel said the staff ran out.

It was just a fun night playing cornhole  its the last thing youre expecting, right? Lebel told the news outlet. I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.

She was among about two dozen people outside Central Maine Medical Center trying to get more information about loved ones, the Sun Journal reported.

Shootings follow deadly assault in April

The shooting incidents late Wednesday are the latest to rock Maine this year.

In April, a man fatally shot his parents and a couple in their Bowdoin, Maine home and barn. He then fled to a nearby interstate, where he fired at passing cars and hit three members of another family.

Since 2006, more than 560 mass killings have been reported in the United States, according to a database kept by USA TODAY, The Associated Press, and Northeastern University. Over that time span, at least 2,900 people died.

No American should leave their home and fear becoming the victim of a mass shooting, but tonight, Maine families are grieving from this untold loss of life, said Kris Brown, president of gun violence prevention organization Brady.

Lewiston's history in New England is peaceful, vibrant, diverse

Lewiston is the second most populous city in Maine and sits between Portland and the states capital Augusta. As of 2022, over 38,400 residents live in the city, which emerged as a major center for African immigration into Maine. The Somali population, which numbers in the thousands, has changed Lewistons demographics into one of the most diverse in northern New England.

The city is about 35 miles north of Portland and about 33 miles southwest of Augusta. The area of Lewiston has roots that date to the 17th century, where it later grew from a small town to a thriving mill city.

The city prides itself on being a place of opportunity, according to the Lewiston city website. Lewiston is also home to one the largest French-speaking populations in the United States and is the epicenter for Maines Franco-American heritage, according to the states office of tourism.

Vibrant and culturally diverse with a strong sense of community, Lewiston delivers affordable, accessible and abundant opportunity, the Lewiston city website states.

Mass killing database: Revealing trends, details and anguish of every US event since 2006

Contributing: Joey Garrison, Michael Collins, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Maine active shooting incidents: At least 16 dead; suspect at large
A few days after the October 7th Hamas attack on Israel, an Israeli air transport took off from an American Air Force base to the deliver the first of a previously ordered shipment of a thousand SDBs (Small Diameter Bombs). These are glide bombs with a range of over 60 kilometers. They can maneuver to a specific target and land within a meter of the target it was aimed at. The Israelis are using these SDBs against Hamas targets in Gaza. This is not the first time; in 2014 Israel did so with the main targets being Hamas storage sites for unguided rockets to be fired at Israel. These sites were usually in residential areas so Hamas could use local civilians as involuntary human shields against Israeli attacks. Any civilians killed were declared an Israeli atrocity in the subsequent Hamas press release, but Israel regularly sought to avoid civilian casualties while Hamas did not.

SBDs have been used since 2006 and the first combat use was that year in Iraq to provide close support for U.S. troops fighting there. Since 2014 Israel has ordered over 5,000 SDBs. They are the preferred weapons against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah and Islamic terrorists in Lebanon and Syria. Larger bombs are used when the enemy is outside populated areas. To avoid this, the enemy spends as little time outside populated areas as possible. Human shields and structures to hide in are found in populated areas. Hamas leaders must travel in the open more frequently than their followers and often do so in civilian automobiles trying to look like innocent civilians. The Israelis can often obtain specific information about such movements and launch airstrikes. Sometimes SDBs are but more often a laser guided missile launched from a UAV, helicopter or jet fighter does the work. These missiles are faster and a bit more accurate than an SDB as well as carrying less explosives and causing fewer collateral (nearby) casualties.

Israel also designed and built its own guidance kits for larger bombs providing additional features the American JDAM kit lack. Its not worth the time, effort and expense to develop competition for the SDB.

The United States is also donating SDBs to Ukraine as part of the NATO effort to provide Ukrainian forces with sufficient weapons to defeat the Russian invaders. Some of the SDBs sent to Ukraine are longer range and are attached to a rocket which carries the latest SDB version, the StormBreaker. This version entered service in 2020 and is equipped with hardware and software to enable it to hit moving targets. To do this StormBreaker has three different guidance systems: radar, heat seeker, and homing on laser light bounced off the target. That means no matter what the weather or time of day, there is a guidance system that will find the target. Even without human intervention, the three sensors enable StormBreaker to find targets in a cluttered and obscured (by weather or darkness) environment. It took three years of tweaking and testing, and it was a cycle repeated several times until the StormBreaker team won because they finally got a promising concept to work. The StormBreaker design was finally doing everything promised but never quite delivered, and the air force was so pleased that the upgraded SDB was given an official nickname; Stormbreaker. Much catchier than SDB, or even SDB II. Publicizing the new, improved Stormbreaker does cause a bit of confusion for those who do not follow the SDB saga regularly.

Most of those who investigated Stormbreaker eventually realized it is not just like the SDB, it also has a better press agent. At the same time Stormbreaker is a visibly, and operationally, different small bomb than SDB and SDB II. Yet there will continue to be demand for the original GBU-39 SDB and GBU-40 SDB II. Both are cheaper and less capable than StormBreaker. Yet more warplane fire control systems can handle GBU-39/40 and do what their users require and cost a lot less than StormBreaker. The GBU-40 version has laser guidance added to GPS but lacks all the additional features of StormBreaker. While the U.S. Air Force and Navy were eager to switch to StormBreaker, many foreign customers were not sure they needed the much more capable, and expensive, StormBreaker. One problem with the Stormbreaker is that the aircraft using it must have its fire control system upgraded considerably to handle it and that upgrade is more complex than needed for earlier SDB versions. Initially only the F-15E and F-22 received Stormbreaker upgrades. The F-35 couldnt use Stormbreaker until recently when its software was updated to handle the many additional capabilities of the GBU-53. Similar upgrades for the F-18E were also ready by 2023.

StormBreaker had been in development since 2005 and announced as ready several times, at least until the last round of Operational Tests were conducted and, as often happens during these realistic or operational, tests something goes wrong. In other words, SBB II was, for a long time, ready to go, but not quite ready for prime time, better known as actual combat. At least not for missions requiring certain features that were having Operational Test problems.

When first announced in 2005, StormBreaker was described as possessing multiple sensors and a data link that enabled it to hit vehicles going at high speed and in bad weather. Sounded great but the repeated failures to get past the Operational Testing meant StormBreaker did not boost sales as much as anticipated. From the beginning, StormBreaker had an encrypted data link that enabled the fighter (especially F-35) pilot to guide the SDB, with great precision, to hit moving targets. This communications capability enabled the SDB movement to be controlled via the air force's airborne Internet (Link 16), which means whoever is directing StormBreaker to a target can be anywhere, even another aircraft or on the ground.

The original StormBreaker specifications called for three different guidance systems: radar, heat seeker, and homing on laser light bounced off the target. That meant no matter what the weather or time of day there is a guidance system that will find the target. Even without human intervention, the three sensors enable StormBreaker to find targets in a cluttered and obscured, by weather or darkness, environment. Now it works but it was felt that a new name like StormBreaker might overcome the shaky reputation the original SDB II designation had earned.

There is a much longer-range version of StormBreaker was created by attaching StormBreaker to a GMLRS guided rocket in place of the rockets normal warhead. When launched, this version of the rocket will release StormBreaker after reaching its starting to plunge earthward. At that point StormBreaker glides the rest of the way as it normally does and achieves a maximum range of 150 kilometers. This version was called GLSDB (Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb). Ukraine has been asking for the longer range StormBreaker since mid-2022. They were satisfied with the performance of ordinary GMLRS but found there were important targets beyond its 85-kilometer range.

The U.S. also had about 3,000 ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) with 160 or 300-kilometer range, depending on the weight of the warhead. These ballistic missiles were held in storage for American use. The Americans were afraid that, if given a longer-range missile like ATACMS, the Ukrainians would attack targets inside Russia that would lead to a disastrous escalation. Ukraine demonstrated that it had other ways to strike deep inside Russia which when used did not prompt further Russian escalation. That led to the 160km-range ATACMS I recently showing up in Ukraine and used against Russian targets in Ukraine that had been out of range until now. Ukraine was also told that the longer-range GMLRS called GLSDB with a range of 150 kilometers was on the way. Now GLSDB is available, and it has also been used in Ukraine, where it was used in combat for the first time. Russian air defenses detected and shot down some GLSDB attacks, but that was expected. The same thing happens to the even slower attack UAVs Ukraine often uses. Attackers consider that there will be such losses and use enough missiles that some get through.

Ukraine has been asking for the longer range (300 kilometers) ATACMS II. It is, like GMLRS, carried and launched from the HIMARS truck but HIMARS can only carry and launch one ATACMS at a time. HIMARS can carry and use six GLSDB. Ukraine would still like the longer range ATACMS ballistic missile, but the Americans need those for any military emergencies in the Pacific. There, the longer 300-kilometer range is crucial.

ATACMS is no longer in production because it is too expensive, at nearly two million dollars each. Developed near the end of the Cold War, when that conflict ended in 1991 so did the urgent need for ATACMS. Only 3,700 were manufactured and between 1991 and 2014 560 ATACMS were used in Afghanistan and Iraq. Now some are being used in Ukraine.

While Lockheed Martin developed ATACMS, Boeing developed and produced GMLRS. Boeing and Swedish firm Saab jointly developed an even longer range of GMLRS with a new Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSMDB) warhead. The design concept is simple. Take the 227mm rocket motor that propels the GMLRS and use it to launch Stormbreaker.

Initially, the SDB was seen as the next generation of smart bombs and is a more compact design of the classic 227 kg (500-pound) unguided bomb. The streamlined shape of the SDB carried the GPS guidance system and other guidance components internally. SDB has a hard front end that can punch through nearly three meters (eight feet) of rock or concrete and a warhead that does less damage than the usual dumb bomb (explosives in a metal casing). Thats because the SDB warhead carries only 17 kg (38 pounds) of explosives, compared to 127 kg (280 pounds) in the conventional 227 kg (500-pound) bomb. SDB can carry other types of warheads, like the high-explosive one currently found in GMLRS.

Boeing/Saab received a contract to deliver production models of the new Ground Launched Small Diameter Bomb (GLSDB) to Ukraine by February 2023. Ukraine liked GLSDB because it can be fired from HIMARS, or any other GMLRS launch vehicle, and has a range of 150 kilometers. Moreover, it is more precise than GMLRS because Stormbreaker has multiple guidance systems that enable it to hit moving targets, including ships at sea and do so at night and in any weather.

Stormbreaker entered service in 2018 as the latest version of the SDB II Small Diameter Bomb in service. This version can identify, track and hit a moving target on the ground in any weather and at night. The novel targeting system was so impressive that the new SDB version was given a unique designation; Stormbreaker. SDB is basically an unpowered missile which can glide long distances. This makes the SDB even more compact, capable, and expensive. While the original SDB I cost about $70,000 each, that went up to $300,000 for Stormbreaker.

Small wings allow the SDB to glide up to a hundred kilometers from high altitude. Launching Stormbreaker from the ground, or even a ship at sea, using any GMLRS launcher provides long range precision firepower at relatively low cost. In 2017 the American marines demonstrated that GMLRS rockets could be launched from the flight deck of amphibious assault ships against land targets. This concept can be used by GLSDB to do the same, but also against enemy ships as well as land targets. This feature enables Ukraine to keep Russian warships out of areas of the Black Sea used by Ukraine. The GLSDB guidance system also makes it possible to hit moving land targets, like trucks or train cars carrying munitions or other Russian supplies.

GLSDB has shortcomings. It achieves the longer range by having the Stormbreaker glide bomb use the GLMRS rocket as a first stage to take it to a high altitude and then separate and allow Stormbreaker, as the second stage, to proceed on its own. This is done by deploying wings and control surfaces that enable the unpowered second stage to locate and hit its target. GMLRS was a single stage missile and made its final approach to the target at a higher speed than GLSDB. The HIMARS and larger tracked GMLRS carriers must get new fire control software installed before they can use GLSDB. It is unclear how long this will take. It could be simultaneous with GLSDB delivery or take several months.

The Ukrainians are the ones getting shot at and have a more can do wartime attitude that has time and again overcome issues like this that the Americans underestimated. NATO nations closer to Ukraine, like Poland, are more familiar with that attitude because they know that if Russia wins in Ukraine, Poland is next on the Russian conquest list. Poland and the larger NATO members like the United States, Britain and France often disagree because of the we are next attitude of Poland versus the more diplomatic attitude of the larger and farther away NATO nations. These differences in perspective and attitude makes sending Ukrainians what they feel they need a more complicated process than it should be.
AUSTIN  Texas employers could not require workers and people under contract to be vaccinated against COVID-19, and would be fined $50,000 if they tried to  but they would be allowed to require those who are not vaccinated to wear protective equipment when they associate with others under legislation advanced Wednesday in the House.

The measure, Senate Bill 7, passed largely along party lines in the lower chamber. And because it was modified by the House, it cannot be sent to Gov. Greg Abbott to be signed into law unless the Senate signs off on the changes or the two chambers reconcile their differences.

State Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, said no Texans lose their jobs or are denied employment because they choose not to be vaccinated against the virus that caused a worldwide pandemic and was responsible for nearly 1.15 million U.S. deaths, including almost 93,400 in Texas.

"We are not going to let employers fire an employee for not taking the COVID vaccine, period," Leach said during the extended floor debate.

The House Republican majority defeated Democratic efforts to exempt health care providers and child care centers from the legislation and to spell out what specific steps employers might take without fear of reprisal if they chose to separate unvaccinated workers from others on the job.

Some Republican members sought to broaden the reach of the bill, but their amendments were ruled off topic and were not considered.

Rep. Jeff Leach, R - Plano, right, is congratulated by Rep. Craig Goldman, R - Fort Worth, left, and Rep. Will Metcalf, R - Conroe, middle, after the House voted for SB 7, which would ban COVID vaccine mandates, at the Capitol on Wednesday October 25, 2023.

The measure, while not allowing facilities and hospitals, clinics and doctors' offices to mandate the vaccine as a condition of employment, would allow such facilities to "establish and enforce a reasonable policy that includes requiring the use of protective medical equipment" for unvaccinated workers "based on the level of risk the individual presents to patients."

It would also prohibit all employers from taking "adverse action" against workers that could be seen as "punishing" or "alienating" them for opting not be vaccinated against COVID.

During the floor debate, Democrat Rafael Anchia of Dallas asked Leach if requiring unvaccinated workers to don basic personal protective equipment such as a face mask when they come into contact with others would be considered an "adverse action." Leach said it likely would not, but perhaps ordering non-medical or non-emergency staff to put on a "hazmat suit" probably would be out of line.

Rep. Rafael Anchia, D - Dallas, argues aginst of SB 7, which would ban COVID vaccine mandates, at the Capitol on Wednesday October 25, 2023.

Anchia, whose district includes Dallas' Parkland Memorial Hospital inside the city's Southwestern Medical District, also sought to write into the legislation steps such as assigning unvaccinated employees to workspaces away from others and even directing those staff members to work from home or take paid leaves in the event of another widespread COVID outbreak. But Leach pushed back and House rejected Anchia's proposal.

Leach also said that he is "troubled" that employers would even ask about someone's vaccination status, saying such conversations should be between individuals and their doctors.

"That's none of my employer's business," he said.

However, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says federal law allows employers to ask about COVID vaccination status and to ask workers to show documentation of vaccination status.

At least 20 states have laws or policies that restrict COVID-related vaccine mandates that apply to such entities as workplaces and schools, according to the National Academy for State Health Policy. Leach said that if Senate Bill 7 is signed into law, which Abbott has signaled he plans to do, Texas' measure would be the nation's toughest.

Rep. Ann Johnson, D - Houston, speaks against SB 7, which would ban COVID vaccine mandates, at the Capitol on Wednesday October 25, 2023.

The Senate version of the bill capped the fine at $10,000 for employers who either seek to require vaccinations or punish those who choose not to be vaccinated. The House boosted that fine to $50,000.

Democratic state Rep. John Bucy of Austin said the bill's aim to protect the rights of workers likely steps on the rights of employers, and questioned whether it is needed at all.

"Is this a rampant problem in this state?" he asked Leach, who replied that even one lost job due to a vaccine mandate would merit the Legislature's attention.

Rep. Chris Turner, D-Grand Prairie, who pushed for allowing medical and child care facilities to set their own COVID vaccine policies, said the bill seeks to replace the expertise of health professionals with the passions of political professionals.

"This is about protecting the most vulnerable Texans," Turner said.

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: Texas House advances measure to halt COVID vaccine workplace mandates
Mike Johnson, a lawyer and former talk radio host, has been a member of US congress since 2017

After several unsuccessful candidacies and a chaotic three weeks, Louisiana Republican Mike Johnson has managed to unite his party behind him as the new Speaker of the House.

The social conservative lawmaker has allies among the most fiery right-wing figures in American politics, including former President Donald Trump.

But his reputation as well-liked House member who is respected by different factions of his party, from the most conservative to the more moderate, likely helped him secure the Speaker's gavel.

Mr Johnson, a lawyer and a former talk radio host, has represented the 4th district of Louisiana since 2017.

He is serving his fourth term as Vice Chairman of the House Republican Conference, and also holds positions on two influential House committees - Judiciary and Armed Services.

An evangelical Christian, Mr Johnson has previously defended Louisiana's ban on same-sex marriage in 2004.

In 2022, he introduced a bill that would have banned schools from promoting or discussing gender identity.

Mr Johnson also has been vocal in his opposition for abortion rights, calling the overturning of Roe v Wade "great, joyous occasion".

"I am a Christian, a husband, a father, a life-long conservative, constitutional law attorney and a small business owner in that order," he told the Louisiana Baptist Message newspaper in 2016.

By the hard right, Mr Johnson is viewed a loyalist of Mr Trump and a fellow staunch conservative. Moderate Republicans see him as a pragmatic and level-headed leader who can maintain conservative values while still passing legislation.

"He's one of those people who gets along with everybody and is well-respected," Colorado Republican Ken Buck told CNN.

Mr Trump, who has publicly spoken out against other Republican nominees for Speaker, praised Mr Johnson on Wednesday.

"I haven't heard one negative comment about him," Mr Trump said outside a Manhattan court on Wednesday, where he is attending his civil fraud trial.

"Everybody likes him, he's respected by all," he said.

Mr Johnson has close ties with conservative firebrand Jim Jordan, the Ohio lawmaker who had a failed Speaker bid last week. Some have described Mr Jordan as a mentor to the congressman.

His politics have also been compared to that of former Vice-President Mike Pence, another devout evangelical Republican.

When nominating Mr Johnson on the floor of the House, Elise Stefanik, the chair of the Republican conference, called him a "dedicated servant" and "titan" who has committed his life to "America's great principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness".

Democrats, however, have criticized his role in trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Joe Neguse, a Democrat House Representative from Colorado, called him "one of the architects" of that effort in an interview with the Washington Post.

"I find that deeply problematic and I suspect the vast majority of Americans would agree with that assessment," he said.

Still, many Democrats applauded him during a collegial moment on the House floor as he was officially named Speaker.

As he was handed the gavel after his win, Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called him a "family man, a hardworking man, a Baptist man, a Southern man, a son of a firefighter's household".

Despite any criticism, Mr Johnson achieved what none of his other colleagues in the race for Speaker could: a quick, decisive win.

His predecessor, Republican Kevin McCarthy, needed 15 rounds of votes before he secured enough support.

Mr McCarthy was ousted on 3 October by a small band of right-wing lawmakers after he forged a deal with President Biden to keep the government funded.

Now, Mr Johnson has an important role before him. Without a Speaker, the US has been unable to pass any bills, including a massive aid package for Ukraine and Israel proposed by President Biden.

Some House Republicans - including allies of Mr Johnson's - have increasingly opposed more aid to Ukraine but Mr Johnson said he would focus his first efforts on funds for Israel, one of the few areas of bipartisan agreement.

"In just a few moments, this entire group is going to go back to the House floor. And we're going to pass our resolution in support of the nation of Israel, our closest ally," he said.
Iowa Citys Ad Hoc Truth and Reconciliation Commission is asking the city council to remove one of its members after he allegedly tried to light himself on fire and threw his ankle monitor in the trash.

Eric Harris, 44, is being held in the Johnson County jail for allegedly attempting to flee to Chicago before a hearing last month. Truth and Reconciliation Commission bylaws allow recommended removals after six absences or three unexcused absences. The board voted unanimously, 5-0, to approach city council and ask for Harris' removal.

Commission members did not discuss the recommendation before they voted on it. Wednesday's meeting opened with a vote to recommend Harris' removal before transitioning to its work with local and national facilitators.

Harris was first appointed to the TRC in 2020, but he has been absent from every commission meeting since March because of the pending charges against him. The commission, originally founded by the City Council in the wake of racial unrest across the country, has worked for years to deliver on its original goals.

The initial mission statement says the commission is supposed "to bear witness to the truth of racial injustice in Iowa City and to carry out restorative justice, through the collection of testimony and public hearings," providing input and serving in an advisory role for the city council and other city offices.

The commission held a session Wednesday to learn more about stress and trauma, an education effort to aid the board's decisions.

More: Jack McCaffery accepts $1,000 fine, 180-day suspension of license in fatal May accident

Harris has had multiple run-ins with police in 2023

Harris' troubles began with an alleged incident in late March where police responded to reports of a man trying to light himself on fire.

Criminal complaints say officials found evidence that Harris allegedly tried to light a couch on fire with a blow torch. He also allegedly admitted to attempting to light himself on fire. Two children were in the residence at the time, according to police.

Harris was charged with child endangerment, an aggravated misdemeanor, second-degree harassment, a serious misdemeanor, and reckless use of fire or explosives, a serious misdemeanor. He pled not guilty in early June.

In late June, police say Harris approached a person at the same residence as the attempted fire and started a physical altercation, striking them in the head and allegedly causing minor head injuries. Authorities also found a small amount of marijuana on Harris' person.

He was charged with one count of domestic abuse assault, a serious misdemeanor, and one count of possession of a controlled substance, third or subsequent offense, a Class D felony.

A Johnson County District Court judge also issued no contact orders for the three residents of the south Iowa City residence where Harris had lived.

Harris was allegedly evicted from the Inside Out Reentry House in Iowa City on Sept. 29 for his behaviors, court documents said.

Police say they were informed that Harris had cut his GPS monitor on Sept. 30. It last "pinged" at the Trailways Bus Station on Court Street in Iowa City. Police say they tracked Harris' GPS monitor to a trash can near the station later that day.

Police then texted Harris, who admitted to fleeing Iowa City, saying he understood he would be arrested soon. He is charged with escape from custody by a person charged with a felony, a separate Class D felony charge.

Arraignment on the escape from custody charge is set for Nov. 6.

More: NCAA issues two-week delay on vote for potential changes to sports-wagering reinstatement guidelines

Controversy is another bump in the road for the commission

The commissions recommendation to remove Harris is the latest in a long line of turbulence for the commission, which has seen multiple chairpersons and members fly in one door and out the other since it was founded in 2020.

The first large scandal came as the commission endured a slew of resignations  four in the span of a few days in 2021  from the commissions first chairperson, Royceann Porter, the commissions first facilitator, Jesse Case, and two members.

In the summer of 2021, the commission, behind new chair Mohamed Traore, asked the council to approve $1,000 monthly stipends for each of the nine commission members in its budget.

The most high-profile controversy came when commission chair Amel Ali was embroiled in a scandal for comments she allegedly made about local officials, including Johnson County supervisor Royceann Porter, on a small podcast. Porter called for Alis resignation and the Iowa City city council spent weeks trying to decide on a course of action for the committee. Ali later resigned as TRC chair.

The commission had tried for months to figure out a facilitator role to work alongside the commission, eventually gaining council approval for roughly $400,000 in funding in early May.

Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01.

This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: TRC recommends Iowa City City Council remove Eric Harris amid felony charges
Following the announcement of a deal between the United Auto Workers and Ford, the company has called employees back to the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville starting Thursday morning.

Evan Palmer, with UAW Local 862 and a member of the UAW National Ford Council with International UAW, said Ford started calling employees around 10:30 p.m. and continued throughout the night to let employees know about the return-to-work plan.

There is a 48-hour grace period for workers to return meaning they have until Saturday to be back on the job without penalty.

Good evening. We are happy to report the strike has ended. We would very much appreciate your help in preparing the plant for starting production. If you are interested, please report to work tomorrow morning, the call from Ford said. This is a voluntary option for those who wish to come in and assist. There is a 48 hour grace period between the company and the union and anyone who has been called and cannot report will not be marked AWOL. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to seeing everybody.

After months of negotiations and a "stand up" strike against the Detroit Three automakers the agreement was announced Wednesday by International UAW President Shawn Fain and Vice President Chuck Browning in a Facebook video shortly before 8:30 p.m.

The union represents roughly 150,000 autoworkers nationwide and 9,000 at KTP.

In the Wednesday night video, Browning called on all Ford workers to return to work while the contract is being voted on.

But, before that could happen, they had to receive a return-to-work date from Ford that came via a robocall. Until that happened, they were into temporary layoff status, Palmer said Wednesday night.

Ford UAW members will need to vote on and ratify the new contract. The ratification process can take a couple of weeks because members are given time to read the proposed contract and present questions to their local UAW leadership before casting their votes.

Here's how the ratification process works for UAW Ford.#StandUpUAWpic.twitter.com/zr2evTpsNs  UAW (@UAW) October 26, 2023

The tentative agreement includes an 11% wage increase the first year and totals 25% over a 4.5-year contract, plus a $5,000 ratification bonus and cost-of-living adjustments, two sources familiar with the deal but not authorized to speak publicly told the Detroit Free Press.

No agreement has been reached between the UAW and General Motors or Stellantis, which owns the Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat brands.

Palmer will fly out to Detroit this weekend to review the contract in-depth in a Sunday meeting with about 60 other UAW National Ford Council representatives. After the Ford Council approves the contract, it will go to the membership for voting.

Palmer said the full contract will be available digitally to all members Sunday night.

This story may be updated.

Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at oevans@courier-journal.com or on Twitter at @oliviamevans_.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: UAW strike: Ford reaches tentative deal; KTP workers return
UK Border Force agents are in Egypt on a mercy mission to help stricken British nationals escape from Gaza as soon as a crossing opens, Rishi Sunak has revealed.

Around 200 British nationals are trapped in the besieged enclave, the prime minister said, as Israel continues to step up its preparations for a full-scale ground invasion.

Mr Sunak said he wanted to bring those caught up in the fighting home and promised that, while the UK cannot do so immediately ... when the moment arises  well be ready to take it quickly.

His pledge came as Israel unleashed its heaviest bombardment of Gaza, targeting tunnel shafts and rocket launchers used by Hamas militants, with the countrys military saying it had launched 250 airstrikes in the past 24 hours.

It insisted the push would prepare for the next stages of the war nearly three weeks after Hamas terrorists murdered more than 1400 people in Israel.

It comes as:

Israeli tanks crossed into the besieged enclave overnight

Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a widely anticipated full ground offensive would go ahead but gave no timeline

The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving operations

The UK hopes Britons will be able to leave via the Rafah crossing into Egypt, through which some aid has been transported into Gaza

Mr Sunak said he had discussed the plight of the trapped Britons with the leaders of both Egypt and Israel and said he was very keen to be able to bring them out  and bring them home.

He is pushing for a temporary pause in the fighting  as distinct from a ceasefire  to allow aid into the Gaza strip, amid growing fears of a full-scale humanitarian crisis.

Mr Sunak also expressed hopes this would create a safer environment that could allow UK citizens, and potentially hostages held by Hamas, to leave the bombarded 25-mile strip.

At the weekend, the first aid convoy made it through the crossing into Gaza. But Cairo has reportedly blamed Israeli bombings around Rafah for the reason it cannot open the crossing for foreign nationals to pass through.

No 10 is understood to not expect any breakthrough at the crossing imminently but Border Force teams have been poised in Egypt for some time, ready to evacuate those trapped as soon as the border opens.

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel (AP)

Ministers are keen not to see a surge of people down towards a border they cannot cross, where they could end up in a worse position. Ministers have been encouraging British nationals and those with dual nationality to register with the Foreign Office for help getting out.

The 200 people who have made contact so far are understood to make up most of those who are keen to leave when the border opens. It is thought they could leave Egypt for Britain on commercial flights, which are still operating and can often be faster than chartering planes.

The prime minister said the government recognised that for British nationals to leave Gaza there needs to be a safer environment, which of course necessitates specific pauses, which are distinct from a ceasefire.

He added: Were very keen to be able to bring them out and bring them home. What I can tell you is we've pre-positioned Border Force teams to Egypt.

So that if there is a possibility for our nationals to cross the Rafah crossing, were ready to get them in and bring them back. It is not something we can do immediately but when the moment arises, we'll be ready to take it quickly.

It comes as the Israeli military said that troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely-expected ground invasion.

Black smoke raise from Eastern Gaza City, on October 26 following Israeli airstrikes (AP)

Downing Street said it would not speculate about whether it would support a ceasefire if Israel succeeded in rescuing hostages from Gaza.

Im not going to speculate on what we may do in the future. This is a fluid situation. Ive set out our position currently, the prime ministers official spokesperson said.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run strip has said that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war  a figure that includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital.

That is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014, according to UN figures.

It said the latest strikes killed 750 people, the highest reported death toll in a 24-hour period so far.

Israel has called for Palestinians to evacuate from northern to southern Gaza, but UN officials have said that nowhere is safe in the strip.

The foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Morocco all condemned the targeting of civilians and violations of international law in Gaza, in a joint statement on Thursday. It mentioned that the right to self-defence does not justify breaking law and neglecting Palestinians rights. The Arab foreign ministers also condemned forced displacement and collective punishment in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Pope Francis that the international community's silence over what was happening in Gaza was a shame for humanity. It comes as EU leaders are set to call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and pauses to get urgently needed aid into Gaza as fuel supplies are days from running out.
Seven months after election conspiracy theories consumed a rural area of central Virginia and left residents without a functioning democracy, the voters of Buckingham County are again casting ballots.

Early voting for next months elections is underway, and the new registrar is preparing polling sites and training workers to serve on Election Day. Political signs dot the streets of this conservative community, which is home to more cattle than voters.

But things are far from normal: A part-time deputy registrar resigned this month, after weeks of recruiting reticent poll workers who fear they will be harassed at the polls. And a former general registrar is scheduled to appear in court later this month over allegations that he violated a no-trespassing order by banging on the door of the elections office, in an incident that left employees rattled.

Years after then-President Donald Trump first launched election conspiracy theories into the mainstream, communities and election workers across the country continue to feel the aftershocks. For Buckingham, where baseless claims drove four people from their jobs, residents say the community is struggling to heal, in part because they are worried it could all happen again.

Rumors and resignations

In April, NBC News reported that the entire elections staff in Buckingham County had resigned. Allegations of voter fraud, wrongdoing and treason that had been advanced by local Republicans ricocheted in the community for months, upsetting the staff and angering many in the community.

Lindsey Taylor, the registrar at the time, told NBC News that she kept hearing rumors about how she had done something wrong and she might soon face legal trouble.

Mentally, I just  I couldnt take it anymore, she said at the time.

Taylor resigned in the spring, after it became clear that the Buckingham County Electoral Board that oversees her office  newly controlled by Republicans  wanted her out. (That board later said the allegations were mistakes or misunderstandings, and it had not found any wrongdoing.)

Taylors departure left the office shuttered for weeks, until a resident named Luis Gutierrez, who had advanced claims of voter fraud against Taylor and her staff, was hired. Gutierrez spent less than a month on the job before the electoral board fired him in May, saying hed lied on his job application. (In a previous interview with NBC News, Gutierrez refused to say what his professional experience for the job was. He did not return a request for comment on this piece.)

Gutierrezs deputy, Ginger Chiesa, replaced him, and she continues in the role to this day. Chiesa, who had worked elections in another county, has earned praise from Republicans and Democrats alike, and given the community a much-needed sense of normalcy.

As general registrar, she has worked to separate herself from the conflict, which she has said had made people doubt the integrity and safety of elections.

I truly did not know, nor did I care to know, the details of what had happened to cause this mistrust, she said at a Board of Supervisors meeting in August. I only wanted to help reassure every voter that they could and would have a fair, by the code of Virginia, election office, and the election with integrity in November.

'We have lost a lot of good people'

But what happened nonetheless colors Chiesas work, as lingering tensions and mistrust within the community affect how voters regard her office and whether residents want to spend Election Day staffing the polls.

Ive been working the early polls, and every day that Im there it seems like somebodys harassing them in some shape or form, Johnny Tyler, 68, said, noting that voters question how they can be sure their vote will count. Tyler said hes an independent voter.

Former and current poll workers say that some residents are refusing to work the polls in the upcoming election because of what happened in the 2022 elections and Taylors ousting. Republican poll observers made a number of allegations about wrongdoing in the last election, some of which involved individual poll workers.

A lot of people said 'Im not going to put up with this,' Woody Hanes, a Democrat on the electoral board, said. We have lost a lot of good people.

Hanes said theyre reminding poll observers in both parties of the rules dictating their work but said this years election will be worked by less-experienced poll workers than usual.

Randy Biggars, a 52-year-old Republican, served as a poll worker for the last seven years.

Ive decided not to go back. With everything that happened, I just didnt want to feel like I was going to be told what to do by someone else other than the registrar, he said. Im not the only one.

Biggars worries the registrars office could see more resignations if the coming election doesnt run smoothly. With less-experienced poll workers and elections with a high number of write-in candidates, hes anxious that history could repeat itself and draw further fraud allegations.

Allen Ross, a 74-year-old Democrat, chose not to work the polls after 12 years of volunteering.

I just decided I didnt want to get involved in politics, playing games, stuff like this. I decided I was not going to work the polls because of that, Ross said. It was kind of dirty the way everything went down.

Joyce Gooden, 73, said she is working as a poll worker this year, even though she was falsely accused in January by a Republican poll observer of being ineligible to serve as a poll worker last year. She's an Independent, but she's volunteered to serve as a Democratic poll worker this year, because one of the complaints local Republicans advanced last year was that there were too many Independent poll workers. (Virginia law requires parity in poll workers "if practicable.")

Im not afraid  what are you going to do, youve already lied about me. What more can you make up? she said.

Still, she knows a half-dozen former poll workers  both Republicans and Democrats  who wont be working the polls this year.

Some people are more fearful though, particularly when it comes to ongoing tension with Gutierrez, the former registrar.

On Aug. 31, Chiesa called the sheriffs office to report that Gutierrez was banging on the door of the elections office. According to a police report, Chiesa told officers that Gutierrez had left threatening voicemail messages and was barred from the premises by a no-trespass order.

According to the police report, Gutierrez was arrested later that day; he is expected in court to face charges of trespassing on Oct. 27, according to court records. His attorney did not respond to a request for comment, either.

Chiesa and a part-time deputy registrar were in the election office at the time. The deputy, who declined to speak with NBC News but asked not to be named for privacy reasons, later quit.

Hanes said she fears more employees might quit and added that theyve reached out to state police about increasing the police presence at the polls.

Buckingham County's Voter Registration and Elections Office. (Matt Eich for NBC News)

Bob Abbott, a 48-year-old disabled veteran working as a precinct chair and poll-worker trainer this year, said anxieties are so considerable in early voting that he started instructing poll workers on what to do in an emergency or active shooter situation. Abbott said he votes in Republican primaries, but considers himself an Independent.

Some of the election officers feel very uncomfortable to the point where they dont want to work the elections, because as theyve said  its scary, he said.

Thomas Jordan Miles III, a Democrat on the Board of Supervisors who spoke out against the allegations of fraud and Taylors ousting earlier this year, said he believed forward movement was restoring most peoples confidence  even if some people remained anxious.

Theyve got training happening, people are voting. I dont think the sky is falling, he told NBC News. I think things are looking up.
Keeshia Jones, a mentor with After Breast Cancer Diagnosis (center right) and Dr. Sandra Millon Underwood, professor emerita in the College of Nursing at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (right), pose at an event hosted by After Breast Cancer Diagnosis.

Though for some people the month of October is defined by fall leaves, pumpkin patches and shoveling our mouths with fistfuls of candy, October also marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The global educational awareness effort seeks to amplify the stories of breast cancer survivors and provide resources to maintain breast health.

So it was fitting that when a reader called the Public Investigator team last week asking for help finding free or low-cost breast cancer resources in the Milwaukee area, we responded.

According to estimates from the American Cancer Society, 5,460 women in Wisconsin will get breast cancer and approximately 720 women will die from the disease in 2023. In Wisconsin and nationwide, Black women tend to have lower incidence rates but higher death rates when it comes to breast cancer.

MORE: Our Public Investigator team wants to answer your questions and chase your tips.

Explore some of Milwaukee's breast cancer resources and upcoming events below, including some geared specifically toward women of color:

Nurses Affecting Change offers free breast cancer exams year-round

In 2011, Bonnie Anderson, a nurse at Milwaukee Catholic Home, helped create Nurses Affecting Change. The group travels around the greater Milwaukee area providing free breast exams to women.

The driving cause of their work, Anderson said, is that the breast cancer death rate for Black women is 40 percent higher than their white counterparts.

Community members can ask Nurses Affecting Change to host pop-up breast examination clinics.

At the pop-ups, examinees will be brought into a room with a nurse practitioner and nurse clinician who will talk them through the process of an examination and explain how to conduct self-exams at home.

If any health concerns are identified during the examination, Nurses Affecting Change will stay in communication with patients to discuss resources for treatment.

To schedule a pop-up exam, interested parties can contact (414) 745-4684.

Wisconsin Well Woman Program

The Wisconsin Well Woman Program provides clinical breast exams, diagnostic testing, mammograms and other health resources to women without health insurance. By expanding access to health screenings, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services program seeks to remove barriers to identifying breast and cervical cancer.

There are several clinics available throughout the state, including one at the Southside Health Center on South 23rd Street, where local residents can access clinical breast exams, mammograms and pap smears.

According to the Well Woman Program website, individuals between the ages of 40 and 64 are eligible for the program, but there are exceptions if you are:

65 years or older and not eligible for Medicare or if you cant afford Medicare Part B

35-39 years old, and receiving Medicaid Family Planning Only services, and you are referred to the program after an abnormal breast exam or abnormal mammogram

35-39 years old, and not eligible for Medicaid Family Planning Only services and you self-report breast symptoms to the coordinating agency; or

35-39 years old, without breast symptoms and not eligible for Medicaid Family Planning Only services. You may be eligible for cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services.

Well Woman is offered in all 72 Wisconsin counties and 11 tribes. Nonbinary and transgender individuals are welcome to participate in the program. If interested, Wisconsin residents can call 800-642-7837 to learn more.

Local nonprofit offers mentoring and support groups

Founded in 1999 by Milwaukee television journalist Melodie Wilson Oldenburg, After Breast Cancer Diagnosis provides resources to women in Wisconsin and nationwide who have been diagnosed with breast cancer.

The organization pairs 200 professionally-trained mentors with breast cancer patients for one-on-one conversations about their diagnosis, treatment plan and mental and physical health.

All pairings are "customized" to ensure that participants can speak to a mentor with similar interests, diagnoses and life circumstances.

"There are other organizations where you can just call a helpline and you get connected to a cancer survivor, but that person may be 30 years older than you are or 30 years younger, or could be someone who was stage zero but you're stage three," said Ellen Friebert Schupper, the executive director of After Breast Cancer Diagnosis. "We are connecting them to someone who really understands what they are going through."

One of the program's mentors, Keeshia Jones, who also serves as director of healthcare and community partnerships at the nonprofit, recently shared her breast cancer awareness story as a part of an international celebration of Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.

Keeshia Jones, a mentor with the organization After Breast Cancer Diagnosis, smiles for a photo in front of the Hoan Bridge on Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day on Oct. 13.

Under the glimmering teal, pink and green lights of the Hoan Bridge, Jones joined speakers at over 200 landmarks across all 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico to "light up" the bridge for metastatic breast cancer awareness.

Jones began her work with After Breast Cancer Diagnosis after she was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer in 2018, with seven tumors growing in her left breast. In 2023, she was re-diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer and has since sought to share her knowledge and resources with women across the country.

I was ready to give back and help other women to make sure that they are aware of their bodies, that they're getting those mammograms, that they're just advocating for themselves," she said.

Panel to highlight disparities in breast cancer

Although most Breast Cancer Awareness Month festivities will conclude by the end of October, Divine Wellness and Counseling will host representatives from the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services for a conversation about breast cancer disparities and resiliency on Saturday, Oct. 28.

The event, hosted at Greater New Birth Church in Milwaukee, marks the conclusion of a month-long series of breast cancer awareness events and fundraising efforts across the city.

However, Milwaukee breast cancer advocacy organizations are using the event to remind local residents that their work doesnt stop when the month ends.

"Oftentimes the resources that are needed to provide education and support are not available in the community where people live, work, fellowship and interact on a regular basis," said Dr. Sandra Millon Underwood, professor emerita in the College of Nursing at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

For more than a decade, Underwood and advocates across the city of Milwaukee have sought to expand breast cancer testing resources to underserved, at-risk populations.

"We can't do everything that needs to be done in October, because women are being diagnosed every day. And we don't want them to missed or dismissed," Underwood said.

She hopes that events like the Divine Wellness and Counseling panel will alert people to the broad network of organizations working to increase access to breast cancer education, free exams and support.

Together We Rise Breast Cancer Awareness event in Milwaukee.

Additional breast cancer awareness resources

Find data on Black breast cancer and resources from Touch, The Black Breast Cancer Alliance at https://touchbbca.org/

Learn more about clinical trials from the "When We Trial" initiative at https://www.whenwetrial.org/.

Sisters Network Inc.'s Southwest Milwaukee Chapter addresses the breast health needs of African American women. To join the Wisconsin Chapter, contact sewisconsin@sistersnetworkinc.org.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Where to get free breast cancer exams, mammograms in Milwaukee and Wisconsin
A flag is seen at half-staff at the U.S. Capitol on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023. Flags often fly at half-staff to honor at national tragedy, holiday, or the death of a government official, military member, or first responder.

This Saturday, you may notice American and State of Wisconsin flags flying at half-staff around the state.

The gesture will honor a former Wisconsin State Representative who died earlier this month.

Here's what to know.

Why are the flags at half-staff in Wisconsin today?

Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #215 ordering American flags and the Wisconsin state flag to be flown at half-staff on Saturday, Oct. 28, in honor of former Wisconsin State Rep. John Klenke, who died on Oct. 10, 2023, at age 65.

"Representative Klenke is remembered for his conviction, generosity and dedication to serving his community," Evers said in a statement. "In the wake of his passing, (my wife) Kathy and I send our deepest condolences to his family, friends and former colleagues during this difficult time."

Klenke, a Republican, was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 2010 to represent the 88th Assembly District. According to the statement from Evers' office, during Klenke's time in the assembly, he served on the Joint Committee on Finance and as vice-chairperson of the Energy and Utilities Committee. He was re-elected in 2012 and did not seek re-election in 2014.

Klenke was born and raised in Green Bay and was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison and UW-Milwaukee. Prior to his time in public office, he worked at the Schneider National trucking company for over two decades, serving as the treasurer, vice president of corporate strategy, division president and director of corporate tax.

Klenke is survived by his wife Charlotte, six children, 15 grandchildren, and many other family members and friends.

Services for Klenke will take place on Oct. 26 in Auburn, Ala., and he will be buried on Oct. 28 in Mobile, Ala.

Chaplain Schuyler, of VFW Post 2260 in Oconomowoc, raises the flag from half-staff during the Memorial Day Remembrance ceremony at La Belle Cemetery on Monday, May 25, 2020.

How long will the flags be at half-staff?

Flags will fly at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday, Oct. 28, per Evers' Executive Order #215.

Where do flags fly at half-staff?

Evers ordered that, on Oct. 28, the American flag and the Wisconsin state flag fly at half-staff at all buildings, grounds and military installations belonging to the State of Wisconsin.

Why do flags fly at half-staff?

"The United States flag flies at half-staff or at half-mast when the nation or a state is in mourning," USA.gov says. "The president, a state governor, or the mayor of the District of Columbia can order flags to fly at half-staff."

Most often, it marks:

The death of a government official, military member or first responder.

A national tragedy.

Memorial Day or another national day of remembrance.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Why are the flags at half-staff in Wisconsin today?
Gun shop owner Dan Marcon was close to ending his life with a gun. He credits his dogs for saving his life. "Everyone should have a dog before they own a gun, he says.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOPELINE to the National Crisis Text Line at 741741.

Dan Marcon pulled his pickup truck into the parking lot of his gun shop at about 7 in the morning on a warm summer day three years ago. The store wouldnt open for a couple of hours, but he needed a place to think, to just be. Marcon felt like his world was burning down all around him.

Marquette University

In the previous week, Marcon had hit a very difficult time in his marriage of 20 years.

He was doing record business during the pandemic, but suddenly everything Marcon had worked for in his professional and personal life seemed to be in ruins  or headed there soon.

With a bushy beard and shaved head, Marcon was a Navy veteran and former bodyguard. At 48, he had worked for more than a dozen years as a prison guard before opening his store, Marc-On Shooting, in Chippewa Falls, five years earlier.

In short, Marcon was known as a tough guy. In the gun world, he was also known for preaching self-protection and politics  and also about being real with other guys when life gets hard. His store was part of a pioneering suicide prevention program.

On that summer morning, Marcon stepped from his pickup truck and his four dogs piled out after him. He opened the side door to the store, walked down the hallway to his office, flipped on the light and settled behind his desk. His office was a tangle of memorabilia, historical items, military relics  a clutter of stuff he had collected or been given over the years.

As Marcon sat there, his mind went to a dark place.

The next thing he remembers is feeling something warm in his lap. He looked down to see the face of one of his beloved dogs, Tucker, a 11-year-old white Lab.

Marcon then raised his eyes and saw his Glock semiautomatic handgun, loaded, lying on the desk in front of him.

That was where I was going to end it. That was the bottom of my existence. If it wasn't for Tuck, he said and paused. That kind of snapped me out of it.

Marcon collected himself. He strapped his gun back on and prepared for the day.

When the store opened, Marcon was behind the counter as if nothing had happened.

But it had.

Dan Marcon, owner of Marc-On Shooting in Chippewa Falls, says he has made suicide prevention a priority by training his staff to watch for signs, offering to store guns for people in crisis and sharing the story of how he nearly took his own life.

Hurting? Tell someone.

Marcon tried to go on with life, yet he was haunted about what had almost happened. He heard things in his head: Fight through it. Youre a guy.Rub some dirt on it. Youll be fine.

He couldnt and he wasnt.

He told his wife about how close he came to suicide. He got a brush-off, and at that moment knew the marriage was over.

Before all of this, Marcon would tell guys the opposite of what was in his head: When you are hurting, tell someone, dont just try to soldier on.

Marcon hadnt followed his own advice. Now he would.

He got together with a couple of friends who were veterans.

Marcon told his story. Then each shared their own. Both ended by acknowledging that there was a time, with a gun nearby, they too thought about ending their life.

Been there, one friend said.

The other nodded: Been there.

Marcon was absolutely shocked.

Then he made a vow, telling the pair: This shit has got to stop.

Second chance, a message to share

In Wisconsin and nationwide, the number of people ending their life by suicide is climbing  and increasingly the means is with a firearm.

Veterans are at greater risk, especially of dying by suicide with a gun. And white men over the age 40 are the most likely to kill themselves with a gun  at a rate two-to-four times higher than other groups in Wisconsin.

Dan Marcon, owner of Marc-On Shooting in Chippewa Falls, in the office of his gun shop with his dogs. Marcon credits his dogs for pulling him back from suicide.

Marcon hit all of those categories.

As he reflected, he realized he had pent-up rage that he would learn is typical among veterans. It would come out at the strangest times.

If Marcon was in a high-intensity situation, like when he came upon a horrific car crash not long ago, he was cool. But when his pen ran out of ink, or his computer glitched, it was a whole different story.

I want to rip it out of the wall and throw it, he said. Why is that?

Marcon went to see a therapist, which he still does, and got on medication, both of which have helped tremendously.

He said those in his generation and younger are more open to talking about their struggles, in a way that his fathers generation has not. But that may be changing.

Marcons dad did three tours in the Vietnam War, got shot three times and was injured by a grenade.

He talks about it more now than he did when he was my age, because it showed weakness, Marcon said. I talk to him about stuff that happens here and he'll open up behind it.

Meeting guys where they are

Marcon grew up in Birchwood, an hour north of Chippewa Falls, and worked at his parents tavern where he learned to talk to people  and more importantly, to listen to them. In the small towns of northern Wisconsin, a bartender is sort of like a therapist, especially for guys who might not be willing to see one, he said.

He feels like he has a second chance, and its meant to send a message. He is open about his story.

Guys ask Marcon if he really did come close to taking his life. They say, I mean, youre Dan Marcon.

Dan Marcon, owner of Marc-On Shooting in Chippewa Falls, came close to ending his life and credits his dogs for pulling him back from suicide.

Marcon nods. It is true. Then the guy often opens up with his own story. Sometimes it will even start at the counter of his store, before he guides the person to the privacy of his still-cluttered office.

Marcon knows the warning signs. He has trained himself and discussed suicide awareness with his staff at the gun store and he offered to hold guns for people in crisis. He once had a man take his life at the shooting range in his store.

Marcons pastor sent a guy to him not too long ago. Marcon asked how he was doing.

Good, good, the man quickly said.

Marcon pressed in, this time adding a been-there skepticism to his voice. Yeah? Hows it going?

The man broke down. Not worth a shit. Im lost. I dont know what to do. My wife is mad. The kids are grown and we got nothing in common.

Marcon sometimes hires guys like that to work at the shop, to bring them into his world, so he can see them on a regular basis. These kinds of connections are vital, especially with guys who might be wary of a therapists office, he said.

The wait to see a therapist is especially long in sparsely populated parts of Wisconsin. A report last year found there are an estimated 440 people in need for every mental health provider in Wisconsin and it is far worse in rural areas.

The guy Marcons pastor sent his way worked at the shop for about six months and then moved on, Marcon said. He is doing much better now.

Standing behind the counter of his store before it opened on a recent morning, Marcon thinks back to that day he nearly ended his life and instead chose to live. Why? He is quick to say his dogs made the difference. They were his reason to live.

Marcon looks around the small pack of dogs with him today  Tucker, Willow, TaterTot  and smiles. He calls Willow and the Mini Australian Shepherd leaps all the way up onto the counter next to him. Marcon snuggles her close.

I think everyone should own a dog before they own a gun.

Project credits

Contributing reporter: Natalie Eilbert

Data analysis, graphics: Andrew Hahn, Daphne Chen, Kevin Crowe, Eva Wen

Photos, video: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

Story editing: Greg Borowski

Photo editing: Sherman Williams, Berford Gammon

Copy editing: Ray Hollnagel, Pete Sullivan

Design: Kyle Slagle

Social media: Ridah Syed

About this project

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter John Diedrich examined the full extent of gun deaths in Wisconsin during a nine-month OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University.

The project reveals the full picture of gun deaths in the state and tells the stories of people affected by gun deaths and those trying to find solutions.

Diedrich was assisted in the project by Marquette student researchers Alex Rivera Grant and Ben Schultz.

Marquette University and administrators of the program played no role in the reporting, editing or presentation of this project.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin gun shop owner was close suicide. Now he helps others.
Three Wofford College professors tracking Israel's war with Hamas say the U.S. probably will not send ground troops unless Israel's ground invasion into Gaza sparks an escalation of the Middle East conflict.

"I don't think we're going to put our own boots on the ground," said Victoria Gilbert, assistant professor of government and international affairs at the Spartanburg college. "It will further inflame and galvanize people."

William DeMars, professor of government and international affairs at Wofford, said if Iran ignores U.S. warnings to not escalate, it could lead to further U.S. response, which may include troops in addition to special forces.

"(Biden) will have to respond or lose credibility throughout the world," DeMars said. "It's very dangerous, not just because of regional stability, but if you look at the globe, Israel and Gaza are not far from Ukraine, and Russia is in Syria near the Israeli border."

Rev. Ron Robinson, professor of religion at Wofford, said he is now teaching peace and conflict in the Middle East and North Africa.

"It is weighing heavily on students," he said of the Israel-Hamas war. "Our students realize that all Palestinians are not part of Hamas."

Fearing for family in Gaza, West Bank: Palestinian-Americans in SC rally in Greenville

Aid deliveries began moving into the besieged Gaza Strip on Oct. 21, two weeks after Hamas attacked Israel.

As of Monday, Oct. 23, the death toll in the Gaza Strip reached nearly 5,100 and more than 15,273 people have been injured, according to the United Nations.The U.N.'s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported some 1,400 people have been killed in Israel, most from the Hamas attacks on Oct. 7.

OCHA said the death toll is over threefold the cumulative number of Israelis killed since it began recording casualties in 2005.

The Israel Defense Forces said Monday that 222 families of hostages have been notified, including "quite a few" foreign nationals. The total rose from 212 on Sunday.

Two U.S. hostages in Gaza were released by Hamas Friday night, Oct. 20, but 10 additional Americans remain unaccounted for.

For the latest updates, check here.

Wofford Professor Victoria Gilbert

Some students obsessing over Iran-Hamas war coverage

Gilbert, who is currently teaching Mideast Politics at Wofford, said some of her students are obsessed with all news related to the Israeli war with Hamas, while other students are barely paying any attention to it.

"We're starting to see discussion of what is the right response," she said. "A big question for me at this point is, after Israel completes operations, what will become of the people of Gaza? Who is going to step in and rebuild this enclave? Egyptians are not going to accept (displaced Palestinians)."

Iran has been accused of backing Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, as well as the Lebanon militant group Hezbollah. Both Hamas and Hezbollah have long been enemies of Israel.

Gilbert said at present, she'd be surprised if Iran got directly involved in the conflict because Israel is much stronger militarily and has nuclear weapons, which Iran does not yet have.

She said Iran's interest in helping Hamas is to prevent Saudi Arabia from normalizing diplomatic relations with Israel.

Wofford Professor William DeMars

DeMars: Iran opposes Saudi-Israel alliance

DeMars also said Iran is strongly opposed to a Saudi-Israeli alliance, which the U.S. supports.

Iran is mostly comprised of Shia Muslims and most Palestinians are Suni Muslims, he said. Also, Iran is aligned with Hezbollah in Lebanon, because it is comprised mostly of Shia Muslims.

However, DeMars said despite their differences, Shiites and Sunnis share a common interest in viewing Israel as their enemy.

"Both want to break up the possibility of getting Saudi Arabia to recognize Israel," DeMars said. "Palestinians also want that."

DeMars said by sheer numbers, the taking of hostages of men, women and children by Hamas is "an unprecedented scale."

"A strong, maybe over-reaction by Israel could bring Hezbollah  another friend of Iran  into the war, as well as Palestinians and militias in Syria," he said.

DeMars said the U.S. has already sent aircraft carriers to the region. On Saturday, the U.S. announced it activated the deployment of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery as well as additional Patriot battalions to locations throughout the region.

Wofford Professor Ron Robinson said the Israeli war with Hamas "is weighing heavily on students."

Robinson: Students concerned about aid to Palestinians

Robinson said students are concerned about the blockage of aid to Palestinians by Hamas. And they're also aware of the pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protests pitting people, including politicians, against one another.

"Hamas did a terrible thing and there's a response," Robinson said. "But we have to look to a better, brighter future where a new way can be negotiated. There needs to be other voices .... I'm pretty sure our politicians are not the best example for our young people."

Contact Bob Montgomery at bob.montgomery@shj.com. Please support our coverage of Spartanburg County with a digital subscription.

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Wofford professors: College students informed about Israel-Hamas strife
One thing that disrupted the early October Hamas offensive from Gaza was the individual initiative of many Israelis. Most of these were men who had served in the army and learned that initiative was not an option but often the best, and often only, way to survive a life-threatening satiation. Many cultures discourage initiative, and you rarely see it being used. Many Western nations, including Israel, encourage initiative. Initiative is one reason that the United States has led the world in job creation and new inventions for over a century. Israel is a much smaller country and has only been around for about 70 years. Yet in that brief time Israel has become one of the most dynamic, entrepreneurial and prosperous nations in the region.

Initiative is always threatened by most people who find comfort in doing things the way they have always been done. This often, but not always, changes during an emergency when it is obvious that the usual methods are not working and trying something new suddenly becomes more acceptable.

The effectiveness of initiative was demonstrated often by Israelis during the Hamas offensive. Army veterans, usually officers, with combat experience, would encounter an area that was under attack by Hamas, or about to be. The veteran would alert the local civilians and get them to bomb shelters. Since the 1950s, commercial or residential buildings have been required to have a bomb shelter. These shelters are not as effective against gunmen unless you manually secure the bomb shelter doors. If you know what the threat is, you can prevent someone from opening the shelter. Most shelter doors will resist gunfire and exploding grenades.

With the Hamas gunmen, if they could not easily get into a bomb shelter, they would move on to find a more vulnerable target. This is how a lot of Israeli civilians survived the Hamas raiders. In addition to getting civilians into shelters, initiative was also demonstrated by finding out if any of the locals had weapons and if so, organizing a defense force to ambush the Hamas men as they entered the area where most people were in shelters. This gunfire, even if only from a few pistols, would also discourage the Hamas men from coming any further.

One result of this use of initiative was to encourage the government to arm many towns and settlements with a supply of firearms, train locals to use and find which residents had used weapons in the army or police. While firearm permits are easy to obtain in Israel, most people dont bother unless they live in very dangerous areas. Less than two percent if Israelis own a pistol or rifle. Many Israelis who could get a gun permit dont, because they consider it dangerous to have around their home. The recent Hamas carnage has changed attitudes. If Israel does enact a law that will allow localities to obtain and store firearms for emergencies, that could work. Israelis living in border areas, especially near Gaza or Lebanon, would find the proposed new firearms law useful.
WASHINGTON (AP)  China's top diplomat said Thursday that dialogue between Beijing and Washington should not only be resumed but deepened, comments that raise hopes the relationship between the world's two largest economies can be steadied in the midst of potentially world-changing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe.

Wang Yi, the Chinese foreign minister, spoke at the beginning of a three-day visit to Washington, during which he is meeting with high-level U.S. officials, including possibly President Joe Biden, at a time both countries are eager to stem any further decline in their ties.

The China and U.S. sides need dialogue. We should resume dialogue, and what we need more is to deepen our dialogue, and have all-around dialogue, Wang said before going into a closed-door meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Through dialogue, we will increase understanding and reduce misunderstanding and misjudgment.

With Blinken looking on, Wang said China will seek consensus and cooperation to "push the relationship as soon as possible back to the track of healthy, stable and sustainable development.

Blinken and Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, are expected to press Wang on the importance of China stepping up its role on the world stage if it wants to be considered a responsible major international player.

The U.S. has been disappointed with China over its support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and its relative silence on the war between Israel and Hamas. In addition, Beijing and Washington are at odds on issues such as human rights, climate change, Taiwan, the South China Sea and North Korea.

Wangs meetings could set the stage for a summit between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders gathering in San Francisco.

Both sides have expressed a willingness to talk since Blinken canceled a visit to China in February after the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon over the U.S., which marked a low point in recent relations.

In the months that followed that crisis, Blinken rescheduled his trip and went to China in June. He was followed in quick succession by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

In addition, Sullivan met with Wang in Malta in mid-September ahead of Blinken's discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng later that month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. And Blinken spoke just last week with Wang about the Israel-Hamas crisis.

The goal, according to U.S. officials, is to arrange another Biden-Xi summit at which the two leaders could explore cooperation or at least easing outright hostility on the most pressing matters of the day.

Wang Yis visit will serve as one of the final touchpoints in laying the groundwork for the Biden-Xi meeting, said Ryan Hass, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institute, a Washington-based think tank. Wangs meetings in Washington will set the contours for the topics the two leaders will discuss when they meet in November.

It opens the possibility of the worlds two largest powers pursuing coordinated efforts to limit escalation or expansion of violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, he said.

Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, another Washington think tank, said Wang's trip signals that the Xi-Biden summit is almost certain.

Wang is here to pave the ground for Xi's San Francisco trip. Thats the core focus of the trip. It means issues will be negotiated, solutions will be discussed and details will be deliberated and inked, Sun said. The APEC summit is 20 days away, so time is of essence. His trip means that Xi is coming. Xis coming means meeting with Biden. The Xi-Biden summit means efforts to stabilize bilateral ties.

Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said it is important for Wang and the Americans to discuss points of contention in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere but that it is unlikely the two sides will reach much agreement.

However, Wang's trip could yield results such as additional direct flights between the two countries, visas for more journalists and even agreements on climate change and resumption of high-level military dialogue, Kennedy said.

On Thursday, the Pentagon confirmed Chinese reports that Cynthia Carras, principal director for China, Taiwan, Mongolia, will represent the U.S. Defense Department at the Xiangshan Forum, which begins Sunday in Beijing. The forum organizers earlier this week said she had registered for the event, along with Chad Sbragia, a former Pentagon official.

Wu Qian, a spokesman for the Chinese Defense Ministry, said relevant Chinese officials will conduct exchanges with her. He also said Beijing attaches great importance to the development of military-to-military relations" between the two countries.

During Wang's visit to Washington, he will have in-depth exchanges of views with U.S. officials on a range of issues and state Chinas principled position and legitimate concerns on relations between the two countries, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said.

The Chinese president last came to the U.S. in 2017, when former President Donald Trump hosted him at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Biden, who took office in 2021, has yet to host Xi on U.S. soil. The two men last met in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022, on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting of leading rich and developing nations.

Wang's trip is one of a string of meetings and activities to warm up Xi's visit to the U.S.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is visiting China this week, had a surprise meeting with Xi on Wednesday in Beijing. The Chinese president told the governor that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more, according to the official news agency Xinhua.

Earlier this month, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led a delegation of six senators to China, in the first visit by U.S. lawmakers since 2019. Schumer was also received by Xi, who said the Thucydides Trap is not inevitable. The Thucydides Trap is a political term for the tendency of major clashes when an emerging power challenges an existing power.

The U.S.-China relationship began to sour in 2018 when the Trump administration slapped hefty tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. It deteriorated further over a range of issues, including rights abuses, the South China Sea, Taiwan, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some New York Republicans say they're going to push ahead with a formal resolution to expel embattled Rep. George Santos, Republican of New York, now that the House is open after its three-week speaker stalemate.

Santos' New York House colleagues announced a measure last week to boot him from Congress, after federal prosecutors added new charges and allegations to a federal indictment that accuses Santos of committing fraud and conspiracy.

The New York Republicans said they expect to move ahead with the measure as early as this week.

Santos faces an arraignment court proceeding on the newest charges Friday morning at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, New York.

The expulsion resolution was announced last week by two of Santos' fellow Long Island Republicans, Reps. Anthony D'Esposito and Nick Lalota. D'Esposito said he expected the measure would catch on "like wildfire" among fellow House members, in light of the newest allegations.

On Oct. 10, the Justice Department announced the new federal charges against the congressman. Prosecutors said Santos is being charged with identity theft, making charges on his own donors' credit cards without their authorization, "lying to the FEC and, by extension, the public about the financial state of his campaign." Santos allegedly "falsely inflated the campaign's reported receipts with nonexistent loans and contributions that were either fabricated or stolen," prosecutors said.

LaLota told CBS News he's looking for co-sponsors for the expulsion resolution. He said he expected momentum will build quickly for the measure, with the reopening of the House floor to business and proceedings. "It's all organic," he said. "Everybody knows the facts of the case. The facts are not good for Mr. Santos. That's why I expect Democrats and Republicans to remove him as soon as possible."

Rep. Marc Molinaro, a Republican who represents a district in New York's Hudson Valley, said he expects a quick timetable for a vote on the measure. He told CBS News, "George Santos is a liar and a fraud who should not be a member of Congress. Since he won't resign and with the House Ethics Committee not moving at the pace we had hoped, we're adjusting our approach and pushing forward a resolution to expel him."

Rep Brandon Williams, a New York Republican who represents a district near Syracuse, told CBS News, that earlier this year he predicted "we would see George Santos in front of a judge in handcuffs."

"That prediction and belief is becoming clearer every day," he went on to say. "It's time for Santos to go."

An expulsion resolution requires a two-thirds vote of the entire House. The measure does not need to go through a time-consuming committee process to reach a floor vote.

The House Ethics Committee has already launched a probe of Santos. One New York House Republican told CBS News he expects a report on Santos from the Ethics Committee will be coming "soon."

Santos has maintained his innocence and said he has no plans to resign his House seat. He pleaded not guilty at his first arraignment proceeding. In denying the most recent charges involving some of his own donors, Santos told reporters, "Why would I want to hurt the same people who went out of their way to get me here?"

Prosecutors also alleged that Santos and ex-campaign treasurer Nancy Marks filed false financial reports to the Federal Election Commission that inflated the campaign's fundraising numbers in an effort to qualify for certain perks, benefits and support from Republican Party leaders.

Police searching for person of interest in Maine shootings, official says

Former FBI agent examines investigation into Maine mass shootings

At least 16 killed in shooting in Lewiston, Maine, law enforcement officials say
man receives his dipolma from Ashland University during a college graduation ceremony at Grafton Correctional Institution in Lorain County.

GRAFTON, Ohio  With jumbo-sized index cards in hand and a hand-carved wooden lion's head around his neck, William walked up to the podium for his commencement address.

More than two dozen men clad in caps and gowns packed the sanctuary at Grafton Correctional Institution in Lorain County. Their friends and families sat across the aisle, beaming with pride. In just a few minutes, the men would receive their diplomas from Ashland University.

But William  whose last name is withheld by request of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections  told his fellow graduates and loved ones that getting an education was not always a priority or even a desire. It was something he had once taken for granted.

William had previously been enrolled at the University of Akron but was incarcerated in 2005 and never finished his degree. He wasn't convinced that college was for everyone. But seeds of wisdom planted by his great-grandfather, he said, reminded him years later that education could be a catalyst.

"He would say, 'Get it up here,'" William said, raising an index finger to his temple, "'and no one can take that away from you.'"

William was one of two class speakers during a college graduation ceremony at Grafton Correctional Institution in northeastern Ohio. William hopes to continue his studies and become a playwright.

That seed moved him to enroll at Ashland University, a private Christian university in Northeast Ohio that offers prison education programs in 13 states and Washington, D.C. William adjusted to online learning and yearned for an in-person lecture (something his younger self would never believe,) but soon enough he was sending TedX videos to his family. Even as he experienced loss and grief behind bars, including the death of his 33-year-old son in 2020, William kept at his studies.

Now, the 48-year-old holds two Ashland degrees, an associate in general studies and a bachelor's in communication with a sociology minor.

"Today is abut more than titles bestowed," William said. "It represents a journey. Challenges faced, goals met, capabilities recognized."

Education, he said, is redemption.

"I made a mistake to get in here," said William, who is serving 27 years to life for aggravated murder, tampering with evidence, having a weapon under disability and a drug possession charge. He is eligible for parole in 2031.

"Now, I want to be an example of discipline and be an example to my family," he said. "They can say, 'Uncle did this.'"

Dressed in caps and gowns, several dozen men and guests filled the chapel at Grafton Correctional Institution for a college graduation ceremony for those who had completed the requirements to earn associate or bachelors degrees from Ashland University.

Grafton Correctional Institution holds one commencement ceremony a year for its Ashland University graduates. Eighty-eight men at Grafton are currently enrolled in Ashland programs, and this year, 28 graduates participated in the celebration. Twenty earned associate degrees and eight earned bachelor's degrees. More than a third graduated with honors. Six wore red, white and blue cords as veterans.

It's always an emotional day to see the men graduate, said Warden Keith Foley.

"The stigma of being incarcerated goes too far, and that needs to change," Foley said. "I've seen a lot of these men grow up. That's how everyone and the world should view these men. They are outstanding."

Jeremy Vogel echoed the sentiment.

As Ashland's state director for Ohio and Kentucky correctional programs, Vogel said he knows how difficult it is to get a degree in a traditional college setting.

"For these men to do this in this environment? It's impressive," Vogel said.

Deleasa Randall-Griffiths, director and chair of the online undergraduate communication program at Ashland, returned to Grafton to give the keynote address. Thirty years ago, Randall-Griffiths visited Grafton once a week to teach, and so much has changed since then.

It was around that time that Congress eliminated Pell Grant eligibility for incarcerated people in 1994. College offerings were scaled back, she said, but Ashland never stopped teaching.

The U.S. Department of Education began piloting a Second Chance Pell Experiment in 2015 to expand college offerings again for people in prison. Two years later, Ashland created a bachelor's degree offering for incarcerated students. And this July marked the first time in nearly three decades that imprisoned students can apply for federal Pell Grants once more.

"We are seeing firsthand the results of our hard work," Randall-Griffiths said.

Randall-Griffiths praised the men for their own hard work in "being an excellent learner, regardless of where that learning took place."

"This is yours forever. You worked hard, you persevered, and no one can take this away from you," she said.

As Vogel read off each of the men's names, they received their diplomas and shook the hands of their site directors. Foley gave each man a bear hug.

All of the men who earned associate degrees plan to enroll in a bachelor's program. As for William, he hopes to find a master's program that will admit him. He is a poet and a playwright, and he has dreams of teaching at a community college or an HBCU (historically Black colleges and universities) one day after he's released.

Graduation isn't the end, he said. Just the next step in his lifelong education journey.

Another chance to get it up here, William said, moving an index finger to the temple, where no one can take it away from him.

A man moves his tassle from one side of his cap to the other during a college graduation ceremony at Grafton Correctional Institution in northeastern Ohio.

Sheridan Hendrix is a higher education reporter for The Columbus Dispatch. Sign up for Extra Credit, her education newsletter, here.

shendrix@dispatch.com

@sheridan120

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: 'This is yours forever': Prisoners celebrate their college graduation


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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 25, ARMENPRESS. Armenia's understanding of the security sphere, first of all, is based on the fact that we should try to make our environment as manageable and predictable as possible in terms of security. And Armenia, in turn, should be predictable for the environment. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov

Answering the correspondent's following question : "When you talk about diversifying your relationship, what do you mean by that, what can other countries do?" Do you expect the military presence of other partners, an American or French military base or maybe India? In practice, how do you see it?" Nikol Pashinyan answered: ''I want to say that we do wrong when by security we mean only the army, only weapons, because, unfortunately, in many cases we see that there are countries that do not have a problem with weapons, but have a problem with security. And there are countries that have a weapon problem but no security problem. Of course, it depends on many circumstances, environment, etc.

Now, our understanding of security is, first of all, based on the fact that we should try to make our environment as security-manageable and predictable as possible. And we have to be predictable for the environment. That is, the threats are generally mutual, and sometimes it is very difficult to find the starting point, because it is always a chicken and egg situation.

And sometimes there is no point in even looking for this starting point, because nothing changes from it. And when we talk about regulating our security relations, by regulating security relations we do not mean that we should bring weapons from other places and shoot at neighboring states. In this very area of security, we must shape relationships with our neighbors to build the right security relationships.

PM Pashinyan considered the delimitation of borders with Azerbaijan, mutual recognition of territorial integrity, rules for opening communications, all of them to be very important parts of the security policy.

The approach according to which we must find allies somewhere, bring weapons to shoot at our neighbors, is not our approach. Of course, we have fears that our neighbors will shoot at us. But these concerns also need to be managed. But on the other hand, I think that any modern country should and has the right to have a modern army, has the right to develop its armed forces, has the right to meet its security needs. We think that security should not be ensured only by the army, but we also need to go for peace in the region.... By the way, in my speech in the European Parliament I said that we mean by saying peace.

When we talk about peace, we mean that the borders of all countries in the region are open to each other on the same principles; we mean that these countries are connected by economic ties, connected by political dialogue and conversation, and connected by cultural ties. This is an important security component. Because it allows your opponent to understand you better, and it allows you to understand your opponent better. This is what makes it possible for mutual ties to be formed, and the security of your opponent to some extent becomes important for you, and your security also becomes important for your opponent, because otherwise economic risks, political risks may arise,'' said Nikol pashinyan.

''You talked about interconnectivity, which presumably also includes transit from Azerbaijan to Nakhichevan. The existing agreements call for the role of Russian FSB in controlling, managing this traffic. Do you think FSB should really play a role here, or can Armenia and Azerbaijan deal with this on their own, without Russia's involvement?'' asked Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov.

''First of all, I would like to emphasize that there is no separate agenda regarding the connection between Azerbaijan and Nakhichevan. Such an agenda exists in the context of the opening of regional communications, when all regional communications must be opened. This is the second. Thirdly, it is not written anywhere that any body of the Russian Federation should have control over any territory of the Republic of Armenia. Nowhere is it written that the Republic of Armenia agrees for any limitation of its sovereign right. It is not written anywhere that any function assigned to the state institutions of the Republic of Armenia should be delegated to someone else. It is not written anywhere and it is not intended, there is no such thing that someone else should provide security in the territory of the Republic of Armenia. No such thing was written.

In general, after the failure of the peacekeeping contingent of the Russian Federation in Nagorno-Karabakh, many questions arise, and these questions are legitimate, because by saying failure I mean that it is a fact that the peacekeeping troops of the Russian Federation were unable or unwilling to ensure the safety of the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh. Very serious questions arise here, but on the other hand, there has never been any talk of restricting any sovereign right of the Republic of Armenia and there can be no such talk.

But on the other hand, I want to say that as I already said at the European Parliament, and as we already agreed at the last Brussels meeting and which was expressed in the July 15 statement of the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, the opening of regional communications should take place on the basis of countries' sovereignty and jurisdiction,'' Nikol Pashinyan answered.

As a result, should the western regions of Azerbaijan have a transport connection with Nakhichevan, including through the territory of Armenia? Yes of course. Can the Republic of Armenia use those same routes, for example, to provide a railway connection between its different parts? Yes of course: In that case, can Azerbaijan use the transport routes of Armenia for international trade? Yes of course. Should Armenia have the opportunity to use the roads of Azerbaijan for international trade? Yes of course. Should international trade participants have the opportunity to trade with Turkey, Iran, and Georgia through the territory of Armenia as a global trade route? Yes of course. And we make this proposal, we are ready for this solution and we call this proposal "Crossroads of Peace" and we invite all our partners to make this project a reality together.
Chinese vice premier calls for improved data utilization

Xinhua) 10:06, October 26, 2023

Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, attends the inauguration of the National Data Administration in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Shen Hong)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang highlighted the role of data in empowering economic and social development when attending the inauguration of the National Data Administration in Beijing on Wednesday.

Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said efforts need to be made to advance the planning and construction of a digital China, digital economy and digital society.

The country should advance the construction of fundamental data-related institutions and coordinate the integration, sharing, development and utilization of data resources to empower economic and social development, Ding said.

It is necessary to balance development and security and give full play to the roles of data as a basic resource and an innovation engine, he said.

China should promote the deep integration of the digital and real economies to provide strong support for the construction of a new development paradigm, for the establishment of a modern economic system, and for forging new national competitive advantages, Ding said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
by Austin Bay October 25, 2023

Defeat in detail, a classic military stratagem, occurs when a comparatively weaker combatant secures victory over a more powerful opponent through the piecemeal destruction of the stronger force. The weaker combatant never lets the stronger adversary bring all of its power to bear.

Bit by bit the piecemeal attrition degrades the strong to the point the once-powerful retreats.

Israel faces a three-front war with Iranian proxies. Hamas in Gaza, its kin on the West Bank and Hezbollah in Lebanon are Iranian proxy armies, armed, trained and paid by Tehran's ayatollah regime. Hamas and its allies man the southern (Gaza) and eastern (West Bank) fronts. Hezbollah mans the north (Lebanon).

Israel's fourth front with Iran, a war involving ballistic missiles and potentially nuclear weapons, isn't proxy. It's Armageddon. Don't dismiss this. For decades the ayatollahs have called tiny Israel a "one-bomb state."

Israel is small in size and lacks territorial strategic depth -- which means it has no room to retreat. However, with its high-tech forces, high morale and just will to win, I think Israel can handle its local three-front war and deter the terrible fourth front, especially if America provides unswerving support.

To the exasperation of Israel's enemies, especially Iran, American military and economic power give Israel immense strategic depth.

However, there is emerging evidence the Iran-China-Russia axis has set a defeat in detail trap for the U.S.

Since Oct. 18, the Islamic Resistance of Iraq (an Iranian proxy) has launched drone and rocket attacks on U.S. forces and assets in Iraq and Syria. So, call that the Iraq-Syria proxy front. Iranian forces in the Persian Gulf, on the Gulf's littoral and in the Arabian Sea have also increased activity. They aren't proxies per se, but this is another front that requires the presence of U.S. and allied air and naval forces to deter. What does the U.S. do if Iran decides to close the Strait of Hormuz to oil tanker traffic?

On Oct. 19, the USS Carney, a Navy guided-missile destroyer on patrol in the northern Red Sea, shot down several missiles and drones launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. The Houthis are a major Iranian proxy army. The Pentagon said the Houthi missiles and drones weren't targeting the Carney. Israel was the likely target.

Red Sea Front? Here's the bigger picture. The U.S. took military action to defend Israel from a proxy attack. Guided-missile warships carry a limited number of offensive and defensive missiles. A drone and missile "swarm" attack by a proxy force could deplete a warship's missile magazine and leave it vulnerable to a coup de grace.

Such an attack amounts to a tactical defeat in detail -- the powerful ship lacks ammunition.

Communist China is no proxy force; it is an Iranian ally that benefits from a distracted America. Confrontations between Chinese and Filipino vessels have increased over the last four months. China's probes of Taiwan and interceptions of U.S. aircraft are increasingly aggressive.

China is testing U.S. responses. Beijing wonders if the U.S. can fight "two simultaneous wars" in widely separated geopolitical theaters. Two wars at once was a Cold War requirement, but the U.S. no longer has the Cold War military structure.

Could an enemy proxy wage war in the U.S.? Customs Border Patrol issued a warning Oct. 20 that said Gaza may serve "as a catalyst for violent actors."

My guess is CBP is focusing on lone wolf terrorists. In Fiscal 2023 CBP apprehended 736 known or suspected terrorists (KSTs) along the southern and northern continental U.S. borders. That means they were on terror watch lists. However, there were 1.7 million illegal migrant gotaways. If two or three out of a 1,000 gotaways are KSTs, that's 3,000 to 5,000 violent enemies infiltrating America's homefront.

A sobering thought. Perhaps we need to train and equip national guard and police forces to identify and destroy terror cells preparing to launch Hamas-style atrocity attacks in the U.S. -- potentially in concert with Iranian, Chinese and Russian international aggression.

After all, distractions can lead to defeat in detail.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 25, ARMENPRESS. Taking into account the fact of ethnic cleansing, starving people, in fact, forced displacement, very great efforts should be made so that the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh would have the desire to return there, if the possibility of this realistically exists.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov.

In response to the question about the future of 100,000 Armenians who had to leave Nagorno-Karabakh, Nikol Pashinyan answered: There is a short-term future, there is a medium-term future and there is a long-term future. In the short term, our task is to meet the most urgent needs of our compatriots who have become refugees. In the medium term we want them to have decent opportunities for living. Our approach is that if they do not have the opportunity or desire to return to Nagorno-Karabakh, we should do everything for them to stay, live, and create in the Republic of Armenia.

The Prime Minister noted: Their future largely depends on what proposal Azerbaijan will make to them, or what position it will take, or what conditions Azerbaijan will create. And in this regard, will the international community encourage it and what will it support? Taking into account the fact of ethnic cleansing, starving people, in fact, forced displacement, very great efforts should be made so that the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh would have the desire to return there, if the possibility of this realistically exists. There are questions that can even reach a dozen. The first is how realistically this possibility exists, and if it exists, to what extent people will trust this possibility? These are very serious and deep issues.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 25, ARMENPRESS. The Republic of Armenia can be peaceful if our region is peaceful. That's why Armenia does not oppose its ideas of peace in any way to the regional interests of peace and does not separate them from them. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov.

Answering the correspondents following question: The international environment has obviously changed in the last three years and in the war in Ukraine, Russia and the USA, together with its allies, are at opposite sides. In your opinion, how did Russia's invasion of Ukraine impact Armenia's security environment? Nikol Pashinyan expressed his belief that all the events taking place are interconnected by internal connections, including the 44-day war in Nagorno-Karabakh in 2020.

 Of course those impacts are very direct and now in the modern world they are felt, visible and significant even thousands of kilometers away, but the events you mention are happening in our region, near our transport routes, or on our transport routes.

But also our reaction to the events is that our region needs peace, and we consider it important to pursue this policy consistently, because you see, there is a very important nuance that I mentioned again in my speech in the European Parliament, which sometimes can remain unnoticed, unrecorded. When we say that we have a peace agenda, the Republic of Armenia can be peaceful if our region is peaceful, there cannot be such a situation that our region is not peaceful, but the Republic of Armenia is peaceful. And for that reason, we do not oppose or separate our ideas of peace from the regional interests of peace in any way. And this is a very important wording, a very important feature that I would like to emphasize, Pashinyan noted.



If we look at the history of relations between the Armenian people and Russia over the centuries, this tension that we see now, I would not call it break necessarily, but maybe for many people the feeling of being betrayed, how historical is this tension? asked Trofimov.



You know, if you emphasize the historical context, in that historical context I would not so much emphasize the relations between Armenia, the Armenian people and Russia, as I would emphasize the relations between Armenia and Turkey or between Armenia and the Turkish-speaking peoples of the region, or rather, Armenia's relations with Turkey and Azerbaijan. Here are all the questions and here are the answers to all the questions. And I bring forward this logic that we should work, first of all, to improve our relations in our region, with whom we have good relations, to make those relations better. We are talking about Georgia and the Islamic Republic of Iran. And with countries, with which we have strained relations or no relations at all, we should create these relations and try to move forward step by step.

It is a very important circumstance and, frankly speaking, I do not have the answer to that question and I am trying to find the answer to the question what Armenia should do. It is very important to what extent we will be able to formulate regional interests, moreover, in this context, we can understand regional interests a little narrower and a little wider, in the context of the South Caucasus and in a wider context.

Much depends on to what extent we will be able to formulate regional interests, because when there are no formulated regional interests, tensions begin to arise between the interests of sovereign countries, which, if not managed, turn into escalations and wars. But the correct and competent way to manage these tensions is to have an understanding of regional interests, because you know, we cannot make all the countries and peoples of the region to be identical, with identical thinking, identical ideas, perceptions and so on, and there is no need to do that, because what becomes a cause of contradictions can sometimes become a cause of complementarity, not to mention that these cultures, histories, traditions can complement each other.

But it is necessary to find that formula of how to formulate and arrange them so that they do not collide, but complement one another.

In other words, its not so that we have defined the task but we cannot solve it, we just have not defined the task, that is, we still do not have the title. Now I think we should have that title and try to create content under that title.

I cannot boast of the fact that we are doing this work in the region to a sufficient extent, but I think that if we stay within the framework of those agreements that are already known and about which I have spoken, the chances that something similar will happen will increase,'' the Prime Minister said.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. Canada will send two observers to Armenia to join the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA), Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisyan has said.

The observers will arrive in a short period of time, he said.

The Canadian Foreign Minister said that Canada is the first country outside of EU that has expressed willingness to send observers to Armenia, and two observers will arrive to Armenia in a short period of time. We hope that Canada will enhance its contribution in the future, Hovhannisyan told reporters in Jermuk during Canadian FM Melanie Jolys visit.

He described the opening of the Canadian embassy in Yerevan as a sign of special attention towards Armenia.

During the visit the Canadian foreign minister addressed humanitarian support issues, Canada tripled its assistance, and all directions for deepening the cooperation were outlined. Canada is interested in the prospect of increasing its support to the democratic and human rights reforms in Armenia and numerous issues were discussed in this regard. Politically, the minister numerously stressed that Armenias independence, territorial integrity and inviolability of borders are important for Canada, the Armenian Deputy FM said.

Hovhannisyan said Jolys visit to the town of Jermuk was meaningful and symbolic. The minister observed the situation on the ground and is now meeting with the refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh, and before that she observed the Azerbaijani military that invaded Armenias sovereign territory in September 2022. Its no secret that Canada is a powerful country whose voice is rather influential in international organizations, Hovhannisyan said, adding that Jolys visit created very good prerequisites for deepening cooperation between Armenia and Canada.

On October 26, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly visited the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) operating base in Jermuk. Then, together with EUMA observers, Joly visited an Armenian military position outside Jermuk to become acquainted with the situation on the border with Azerbaijan. She then met with forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh who have been accommodated in Jermuk.
I have often extolled Lou Harrisons Piano Concerto as quite possibly the most formidable concerto by any American. And I have often extolled the South Dakota Symphony as a national model. This Saturday night at 8:30 pm ET, the South Dakota Symphony performs the Harrison concerto  a concert that will be livestreamed (but not archived), if you would like to sample how the South Dakota Symphony does things.

The concerto will be directly preceded by a 30-minute scripted preamble with a film created by my colleague Peter Bogdanoff. We will begin with some Ravel (The Princess of the Pagodas from Mother Goose), then explore the 1889 Paris Exposition, with its Javanese Pavilion, which introduced Paris (and the Western world) to gamelan. All of this will eventually lead to a sampling of the Harrison concerto, and a little demonstration of how the piano writing is indebted to the layered textures of Javanese music.

I wrote the script, and will narrate alongside Music Director Delta David Gier. Our soloist  an inspired Harrison exponent  is Emanuele Arciuli. Though Italian, Emanuele has performed more American piano music than anyone else I know, and has also written a book about it (awaiting an English translation).

The second half of the program features Rimski-Korsakovs Scheherazade, a prime example of musical Orientalism preceding the East/West fusion seminally clinched by Harrison.

There will also be a pre-concert talk with film and a post-concert discussion. Tonight, Emanuele and I present an American Fusion program at South Dakota State University, which will bus students to Saturday nights concert.

To my way of thinking, all this embodies how symphony orchestras should function these days, with dwindling audiences and dissipating cultural memories.

Heres my program note for Saturdays concert:

But my poor friend! Do you remember the Javanese music, able to express every shade of meaning, even unmentionable shades which make our tonic and dominant seem like ghosts? . . . Their school consists of the eternal rhythm of the sea, the wind in the leaves, and a thousand other tiny noises . . . that force one to admit that our own music is not much more than a barbarous kind of noise more fit for a traveling circus.  Claude Debussy

Debussy discovered Javanese music at the 1889 Paris Exposition  the one with the Eiffel Tower. Its Javanese Village was just that, with sixty residents from the Indonesian islands of Java and Sunda. They inhabited a kind of pre-industrial paradise, crafting batiks, weaving straw hats, and  most notably  performing a kind of music and dance as yet wholly unknown in Europe. There were no films or recordings to prepare the shock. Frances musicians and painters were more than galvanized; their vocabulary of gesture and ambience was actually transformed. For Debussy and Maurice Ravel, gamelan embodied sounds and textures previously unimagined. They were merely the first of countless influential Western composers to undergo an Indonesian epiphany.

A towering figure in this narrative is one of the most formidable of all American composers: Lou Harrison (1917-2003); that he remains little-performed (outside the West Coast) is scandalous. That he doesnt felicitously fit any musical map is both a proof of his originality and a penalty he pays. The absorption of gamelan elements in his music is so complete that the style, global influences notwithstanding, is all of a piece; the finished product cannot be called eclectic.

Born in Portland, Oregon, in 1917, Harrison was a product of the West Coast: facing Asia. He eventually settled in rural Aptos, near Santa Cruz. Ongoing explorations of other cultures was an ongoing Harrison life motif. As a child he studied dance and Gregorian chant. In San Franciscos Chinatown, he imbibed Chinese opera and purchased huge gongs to supplement instruments he himself created out of discarded brake drums and springs found in junkyards. The 1939 San Francisco Golden Gate Exposition introduced him to Indonesian gamelan: a life-long passion. He acquired a similar expertise in Korean and Chinese music.

Harrisons music is an original, precise, and yet elusive product of these and other far-flung cultural excursions. And yet his American roots are identifiable. American is his self-made, learn-by-doing, try-everything approach. So is his polyglot range of affinities, unchannelled by any linear narrative of advancement. A composer far ahead of his time, Harrison espoused world music before there was a name for it.

Harrisons 30-minute Piano Concerto celebrates the grandeur and variety of his musical vision. Harrisons biographer Bill Alves comments: Its easy to get lost in Lous eclecticism. Hes really a Romantic at heart. In fact, it is hard to think of a more persuasively expansive concerto by an American composer. The big sonorities and lean, uncluttered textures connect with the prairie mode of Aaron Copland. But Harrison is more polyglot, more idiosyncratic, more remote from European models and experience.

The concerto begins with a fortissimo flourish forecasting its exceptional scope. What follows is an equally exceptional 12-minute movement in sonata form; Sudip Bose, the editor of The American Scholar and a Harrison connoisseur, memorably calls it as vast as a canyon. The piano writing is itself highly unusual  and indebted to the layered textures of Javanese gamelan. The second movement Stampede is a patented Harrison genre of which the composer writes: [It] is a large and rambunctious expansion of the European areas medieval dance form Estampie. The two words are cognate and refer to general noise and bruha-ha and not, as I had originally thought, to any form of stamping dance. The raucous affect is reinforced by occasional use of an octave bar, to produce dissonant tone-clusters. The third movement is an eight-minute Largo hymn. Of the concertos brief finale, Harrison writes: I have written Jalas in a sort of perpetuum mobile style . . . This last movement is meant as a kind of quiet lace-work. (By Jalas, Harrison refers to a technique in North Indian classical music in which the player interpolates a repeated drone.) The Harrison Piano Concerto is at once original, melodious, and formidably grand.

Our program closes with music as familiar as Harrisons is not: Rimsky-Korsakovs sublime Scheherazade (1888). It is perhaps the most famous embodiment of Orientalism  an arms-length infatuation with the exotic that galvanized many a Russian and European composer before the turn of the twentieth century. In other words: Orientalism prefaces the 1889 Paris Exposition  it celebrates a mainly imaginary East, preceding direct exposure to the real thing. And there is nothing wrong with that, especially when the creative imagination is as opulent as Rimskys is here.

In 1874 Rimsky visited the town of Bakchisaray, near Sevastopol on the southern coast of Crimea. He marvelled at the coffee houses, the shouts of its venders, the chanting of the muezzins on the minaret, the services in the mosques, and the oriental music. Thirteen years later, he embarked on an orientalist fantasy inspired by The Arabian Nights (collecting Arabic, Persian, and Indian tales) and called it Scheherazade. It is she, in the Arabian Nights, who spins a vast web of tales, one per night, for 1,001 nights in order to pre-empt the Sultans vow to kill each of his wives. Rimsky discouraged an overly programmatic reading of the four movements (he later suppressed the movement titles listed on tonights program page). He did concede that the solo violin evoked Scheherazade as she tells her wondrous tales to the stern Sultan. He further wrote: In composing Scheherazade I meant these hints to direct only slightly the listeners fancy on the path that my own fancy had traveled . . . All I wanted was that the hearer. . . should carry away the impression that it is undoubtedly an Oriental narrative of numerous and varied fairy-tale marvels, and not merely four pieces played one after the other and based on themes common to all four.
37th National Games in Goa; India ready to host Olympics in 2036: PM

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being received by Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis upon his arrival, in Shirdi, on Thursday. (Image: PTI)

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday accused NCP chief Sharad Pawar of playing politics in the name of farmers. Mr Modi also said that Mr Pawar, who was the Union agriculture minister for a decade, has done nothing for farmers.

The Prime Minister launched the "Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana", the flagship scheme of Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday in Shirdi. Besides this, Mr Modi dedicated various projects, including the new darshan queue complex at Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple in Shirdi and Ayush Hospital at Ahmednagar civil hospital.

Addressing a rally in Ahmednagar, Mr Modi said, Those, who have played politics in the name of the farmers have made you (farmers) crave for every drop of water.

The Prime Minister said that his government is working to complete 26 irrigation projects that have been pending in Maharashtra for many decades. These irrigation projects will benefit our farmers in drought-prone areas, he said.

Mr Modi further said he has performed the "Jal Pujan" of Nilwande Dam, which was approved in 1970. This project has been pending for the last five decades. Our government has expedited it. The left bank canal has been commenced and soon the right bank canal will be started, he said.

But few people in Maharashtra have only done politics in the name of farmers. I personally respect one senior leader from Maharashtra who has been Union agriculture minister for many years. But what had this leader done for the farmers? During his seven-year tenure, he had procured `350-lakh crores worth of food grains on MSP. But our government has paid `13.50-lakh crores of MSP in seven years, Mr Modi added.

During Mr Pawars tenure as Union agriculture minister, he said that farmers had to rely on intermediaries, resulting in lengthy delays in receiving their payments. For months, farmers had to await their payments. Our government gave MSP money directly into the bank accounts of farmers, he said.

The Prime Minister mentioned PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, under which the small farmers received `2,60,000 crores, including `26,000 crores for the small farmers of Maharashtra. He said that under the Maharashtra governments Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana, farmers will get an extra `6,000, which means that farmers from Maharashtra will get `12,000.

Reacting to Mr Modi's address, Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil posted a video on his X account stating there is a contradiction in the Prime Ministers statement. The Prime Minister, who had said Sharad Pawar saheb has done nothing for the farmers in 60 years. In his earlier speech, he had presented the facts about Pawar sahebs works, Mr Patil said.
Love them, hate them ignore them at national peril, is the babu guarantee and Dilips belief. Share significant babu escapades dilipcherian@hotmail.com

Now officers with a minimum of five years of service are eligible for induction into R&AW, IB, NIA & CBI

The chronic shortfall of officers in the CBI has considerably hampered the efficiency of the agencys work. (AA Image)

Finally, the government is attempting to address the longstanding issue of understaffing in Indias premier intelligence and investigation agencies. Now officers with a minimum of five years of service are eligible for induction into R&AW, the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Previously, this criterion applied to all agencies except the CBI. This policy is poised to open the door for SP rank officers to enter the CBI.

The chronic shortfall of officers in the CBI has considerably hampered the efficiency of the agencys work. As of this month, there were 42 vacant SP-level positions out of the 73 sanctioned posts. This is the highest vacancy rate among all 17 organizations, closely followed by the IB, with 32 vacancies at the same rank.

SP-level officers are of paramount importance in investigations, as they oversee and directly engage with cases. Given that the CBI handles high-profile cases, the vacancies at the SP level have long impeded the agencys anti-corruption work.

Similarly, the Intelligence Bureau (IB) has expanded its cadre by including IG, ADG, and DG ranks, previously limited to SP and DIG. To ensure a balanced workforce, the number of hardcore IB officers, spanning ranks from SP to DG, should not exceed 50 per cent of the total posts, all of which are to be filled by IPS officers.

This updated policy also reflects changes in the empanelment of senior IPS officers. Each state care designates a Central deputation quota, requiring additional recruitment to provide trained and experienced officers for Central government roles.

Govt mobilises babus for nationwide roadshows

Commencing next month, officials from a dozen allied Central government services, including income tax, customs, central excise, audit and accounts, forests, postal, telecom and other sectors, are set to take on a unique role as rath prabharis, or special officers. They will embark on a nationwide tour lasting into January next year, covering approximately 2.69 lakh gram panchayats in specially equipped raths with the express objective of showcasing the achievements of the Modi Sarkar over the past nine years.

It's not a coincidence that this campaign will be run in the midst of the upcoming assembly elections in five states and the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks a third term in office.

While the Modi government has previously enlisted bureaucrats to promote and educate the public about its welfare programs since 2014, this marks the first instance in which such a significant number of officers from allied services are being mobilized to highlight the governments accomplishments, in a blatant blurring of the lines between politics and administration. Sources have informed DKB that a total of 170 babus from various allied services will participate in this initiative, dubbed the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra.

Expectedly, opposition parties regard this decision with suspicion, questioning the deployment of civil servants for political propaganda. Critics contend that utilising bureaucrats as Rath Prabharis blurs the line between government administration and political campaigning, potentially swaying voters. The INDIA Alliance leaders have demanded a retraction of the order, a weak long shot unless there is a public pushback, which appears unlikely.

Experts, including some former babus, point out the dire implications of this decision on transparency, ethical governance, and public perception. The issue will remain a subject of ongoing scrutiny and debate.

Not to be left behind, the Indian Army too has advised soldiers, when they go on leave, to spread awareness among local communities about Swachh Bharat and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and other schemes. Unlike babus, however, soldiers cant protest about being used as pracharaks.

Moving beyond the G-20 rhetoric?

As the razzmatazz of G-20 fades into memory, there is still work to be done. Dr P.K. Mishra, the principal secretary to the Prime Minister, recently headed a high-level meeting to review the progress made in translating the G-20 Leaders Declaration in Delhi into tangible action.

The meeting included the Vice-Chairman of the Niti Aayog, the G-20 Sherpa, the G-20 chief coordinator and senior officials from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), among others.

According to sources, a series of seven webinars have been proposed to be organized on themes ranging from nurturing strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth to combating terrorism and money laundering. The webinars will be spearheaded by the respective ministries. The aim is to draw insights from area experts for the effective implementation of the New Delhi Leaders Declaration and set up a high-level monitoring mechanism to ensure that the implementation remains an ongoing process.

Apparently, Dr Mishra also discussed the upcoming G-20 Virtual Summit, an initiative initially proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, with the government now increasingly focused on the upcoming elections, the question is how much time will be devoted to matters of governance.
Today's news: Israeli night raids in Gaza, still no date for start of ground operation; China sends three astronauts to its space station; Indonesia arrests tiktoker for insulting Christianity; For the United Nations, the number of refugees reaches an all-time high this year; Ukraine created a battalion of Russians who want independence for their regions.

GAZA  ISRAEL

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said it carried out a "targeted raid" in northern Gaza overnight using tanks, part of "preparation for the next stages of combat". In the meantime, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has also reiterated that there will be a ground invasion of the Strip, but it is not yet clear when this will happen and what exactly will be the main military objective of the operation, such as the occupation of part of territory.

INDIA  CANADA

India will resume issuing visas to Canadian citizens following last month's diplomatic row over the killing of a Canadian Sikh activist for which Ottawa had accused Delhi of being responsible. Indian officials also said that further decisions, if any, will be communicated based on continuous assessment of the situation.

CHINA

This morning China sent a new crew to its Tiangong space station. This is a mission that is part of the Chinese space program which plans to send people to the moon by 2030. The Shenzhou-17 took off from the Jiuquan launch site in northwestern China carrying a team of three astronauts.

INDONESIA

An Indonesian TikToker accused of blasphemy against Christianity has been arrested in North Sumatra province after videos of him went viral. Fikri Murtadha was taken from his home and taken to the city of Medan for investigation, police said, adding that the 28-year-old man apologized for the content he posted on TikTok but will likely be charged with incitement to hatred, for which up to six years in prison are foreseen.

REFUGEES  UN

There are estimated to be more than 114 million refugees worldwide, an increase of 5.6 million in 2023 compared to the end of last year, the highest figure ever recorded by the Refugee Agency. According to the United Nations, this is a number that demonstrates "the inability of the international community to resolve conflicts". The main causes of displacement were conflicts in Ukraine, Sudan, Myanmar and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

INDIA

In the remote village of Totopara, in the state of West Bengal on the border with Bhutan, the local community has started an initiative to protect the Toto language, spoken by 1,600 people, who are forced to learn Bengali, Nepalese and Hindi. But in 2019, an alphabet was created for the language and now several volunteers have offered to teach the writing method to children, so that the language does not become extinct.

RUSSIA  UKRAINE

The Armed Forces of Ukraine have established the Siberia battalion, made up of Russian citizens of various ethnic origins who desire the independence of their republics and regions and the overthrow of Vladimir Putin's regime and who have come to Ukraine from third countries and passed through careful checks before being enlisted.

TURKEY  TURKMENISTAN

The president of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdymukhamedov, went to Turkey on an official visit to discuss with his counterpart Recep Tayyp Erdogan the issue of increasing trade between the two countries, and that of the transit of Turkmen gas, which should arrive in Europe with the help of Ankara, but many aspects are still to be defined.
Zeng Yuxuan, 23, was jailed for six months over a drawing of the "Pillar of Shame", a statue that honours the victims of the massacre. Repatriated in Shenzhen as an unwelcome person, she is now missing; her mother has suffered the same fate. This case is the latest in a long list of repressive acts against activists. The young womans supporters have set up a Facebook page open to anyone concerned about her fate.

Beijing (AsiaNews)  A group of Hong Kongers created a Facebook page and urged people to join to raise awareness about the fate of a Chinese postgraduate student who was jailed in Hong Kong. After her release, she was expelled to mainland China where she is now missing.

Zeng Yuxuan was arrested under Beijings infamous national security law for planning to display a drawing of the Tiananmen Square massacre of 4 June 1989, one of the darkest days in Chinese history.

After she purged her sentence in Hong Kong, she was deported to mainland China, and has not been heard ever since. Her mother appears to be missing as well.

The 23-year-old doctorate student was studying law at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, this according to local sources.

She was sentenced to six months in prison for planning to commemorate Tiananmen Massacre and was expelled.

Some Hong Kongers living overseas set up a Facebook page, "The safety concern of Zeng Yuxuan", dedicated to her. About 200 people are now members of the group, but it remains open to anyone who wants to join its signature campaign.

"We urge the international community to pay attention to the safety and freedom of Zeng Yuxuan. In the absence of information about her whereabouts, we should come together, make collective efforts, and ensure her safety and personal freedom," the campaign statement reads.

Zeng Yuxuan was initially detained on 1 January, allegedly for mourning the death of a man who killed himself after stabbing a police officer on the city's handover anniversary in 2021.

Released on bail, she was charged a second time for planning to display a drawing of the "Pillar of Shame, a statue that commemorated the June 4 massacre. The piece of art depicted the bloodied bodies and faces of pro-democracy protesters killed by Chinese authorities.

In addition to the statue, the young womans drawing included some text: The old cannot kill the young forever and The Tiananmen Massacre June 4th 1989.

At her trial, she pleaded guilty and was sentenced to six months in prison.

Radio Free Asia (RFA) reported that after her release, she was expelled to the mainland as an unwelcome person, and has been missing after she crossed the border and went to Shenzhen. Her mother filed a missing person report on 12 October, but she too has not been heard of since 20 October.

The activists behind the campaign want to keep Zeng Yuxuan's case alive and find out what her fate is; they strongly condemn the systematic violation of human rights and individual freedoms in China and Hong Kong.

Freedom of speech is a fundamental right for every individual, and governments should protect and respect this right, the Facebook page reads. Conversely, the persecution of Zeng Yuxuan by the Chinese and Hong Kong governments not only violates this right but also raises questions about the overall human rights situation."

Zeng Yuxuan was in Hong Kong on a temporary permit. She is the first non-resident to be convicted of "subversion" under the law.

The "Pillar of Shame" was created by Danish sculptor Jens Galschiot and erected on the campus of the University of Hong Kong. It was dismantled and removed in December 2021 after China imposed its national security law on the former British colony.

Hong Kong police have refused to return it to its author, claiming it as evidence in a criminal case. Any form of commemoration of 4 June is banned.

Several mainland Chinese who joined protests in Hong Kong have been arrested once they went home.

RED LANTERNS IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHINA. TO RECEIVE A WEEKLY UPDATE EVERY THURSDAY, CLICK HERE.
by Sumon Corraya

In the country's eight dioceses, more than 60,000 rosaries have been distributed to increase Marian devotion. Even in the small local Catholic community, stories of graces obtained through Our Lady's intercession are growing. Fr Manuel Gomes: "A prayer that also strengthens the bonds in families".

Dhaka (AsiaNews) - Pope Francis has announced for tomorrow - Friday 27 October - the World Day of Fasting, Prayer and Penance for Peace, to stop ongoing conflicts, from Palestine to Ukraine and in every other part of the world.

This extraordinary moment falls in the month of October which Christian tradition dedicates to the prayer of the rosary, a Marian prayer whose strength even the small Catholic community of Bangladesh is increasingly experiencing.

Each of the 8 dioceses of the country has a coordinator and conducts various programs to develop this form of Marian devotion. And here too the prayer is accompanied by the graces that many faithful say they have received through the intercession of the Virgin Mary.

Rakha Rema, an ethnic Garo woman who lives in the parish of Jalchatra in the diocese of Mymensingh, said she entrusted her seriously ill nephew to the prayers of the rosary and thanks to these, according to her, the young man got back to health. The woman is a member of the Legion of Mary, which is widespread in Bangladesh and other Asian countries.

Rahka Cecilia D' Rozario, on the other hand, is a faithful from the parish of Padrishibpur in the diocese of Barishal and she suffered from bone cancer with metastases to the knee: "The doctors advised me to have surgery but I didn't have the money. In those days I prayed the rosary a lot." After a few weeks the tumor went into gradual remission and the woman - now recovered - did not need surgery.

In Bangladesh even children are accustomed to praying the rosary, as in the case of Tiloktoma Toju, 13 years old, from the Sreemongol parish of Sylhet: "We are five sisters and last year the fourth became seriously ill and was hospitalized in the intensive care. We thought she wouldn't survive. As a family we prayed through the rosary and she recovered. Since then we have prayed in this way every day."

Fr. Ruben Manuel Gomes is the national director of Holy Cross Family Ministries Bangladesh and works to spread the prayer of the rosary in the country: I obtained this appointment three and a half years ago.

And since then I have been carrying out my work in the eight dioceses of Bangladesh where we have created 680 catechetical programs on this devotion, distributing 60 thousand rosaries, 100 thousand images of Mary, 50 thousand sacred calendars. In this country, countless people pray the rosary and many of them feel they are being listened to.

Furthermore, we have seen that praying the rosary increases the bond between family members." Fr. Gomes also talks about some challenges regarding the future of his ministry: "We are launching new programs to add all the Catholics of Bangladesh so that more and more people can be united by praying the rosary."
MANZINI - To address the current challenges at TLC, the health facility will now limit outpatient services to three days per week and defer senior management salaries at the Miracle Campus.

This came into effect today, as announced by the health facility through a press release. Previously, the Miracle Campus operated 24/7 throughout the year for outpatient services. In addition, it was revealed that for the first time in its history, for October payroll, The Luke Commission (TLC) will defer salaries for senior management to ensure junior staff received their salaries. TLC Deputy Managing Executive Winile Simelane apologised, stating that circumstances had forced them to take these decisions. It is heartbreaking and heart-wrenching for us to disappoint our patients and staff. Resource constraints in light of ever-increasing patient volumes led to the very difficult decision to limit services and defer paying salaries. Over the past 12 months, TLC hosted over 300 000 patient visits, Simelane disclosed.

She reiterated that no hospital should have to make the painful decision to turn away patients, as access to healthcare was a basic human right. Until the financial picture improves, the Miracle Campus will provide outpatient services on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays only. Outpatient services at the Miracle Campus will also be available on the first and third Saturday of the month, as well as the second Sunday of each month, she announced. The scaledown at the Miracle Campus follows a reduced schedule for Matsapha Mobile Clinic, announced last week. Matsapha Clinic is now open for services on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays only.

Meanwhile, TLC Director of Operations Mbongiseni Tsela said it was painful to have to say no to any patient. I have worked with TLC for over 10 years and this is something we have never done before. It clashes with our desire, which is to treat every last one just as we would our own family member - with love, kindness and compassion, he shared. Tsela highlighted that the hallmark of TLC had never been to turn away any patient in the queue who required services.

Express

Our life has consisted of saying yes. For TLC, treating every last one is how we express ubuntu. Its this spirit that is needed in every sector across the globe, said Tsela. He further expressed hope of the financial situation normalising in the coming months. However, he pointed out that without an equitable allocation of resources earmarked for healthcare in Eswatini, it was quite impossible for them to continue operating at the levels they had been operating. Simelane said the dramatic downscaling of the organisations services followed a formal resolution from TLCs board of directors to limit programming to only those activities with dedicated funding. He mentioned that senior management had demonstrated courageous relationship in putting others before themselves, voluntarily choosing to have their salaries deferred so that junior staff could receive full pay. The TLC team of over 700 people is so committed and serves from the heart. They have served humbly through the pandemics of HIV and COVID-19, through civil unrest, and through so many challenges. We want to do everything we can to retain as many staff as we can for as long as we can, Simelane said.

He elaborated that they trusted that God would help them and provide as he had, over the past two decades. He also stated that they had never turned away patients, and they had never paid staff salaries late, adding that both decisions were devastating to consider. Simelane said the organisation was currently establishing operating schedules week by week, and that updates would be provided to existing patients via SMS and to the nation via social media, and through the media houses. He noted that TLCs health hotline remained open 24/7 on 7613 8814.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

Hungary unveils a statue of the Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi, an opportunity to resurrect the common roots in the history of the Huns, an ancient people among the most representative of Eurasia. And in the press of the two countries, some articles emphasised how other, much more recent events also link the destinies of Azerbaijanis and Hungarians

Baku (AsiaNews) - The meeting last October 19 at the Hungaricum park in the Hungarian city of Lakitelek sparked a new wave of enthusiasm in reviving the historic relations between Hungary and Azerbaijan.

The occasion was the inauguration of a statue of the great Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi (1141-1209), in which the vice-president of the Milli Medzlis (Baku parliament) Ali Huseynli, head of the Interparliamentary Group for Azerbaijani-Hungarian Friendship.

At his side were the deputy speaker of the National Assembly of Budapest, Sandor Lejak, the representative of the Ministry of Culture Janos Sentmartony, some members of the Organization of Turanian Countries in Hungary and various local authorities.

Many students and their teachers were brought to the ceremony to drink from a very exclusive source in the European context, the almost mythological descent of the Hungarians from the Huns, which makes them one of the most representative peoples of Eurasia.

Known for the raids of Attila the "scourge of God" in the mid-5th century against the Western Roman Empire, the Huns descend from nomadic tribes of Asia, who say they were also Mongols who also dominated China (the Xiongnu), some Turanians from southern Siberia.

Certainly at the beginning of the Christian era they were pushed westward, first occupying the territories between the Volga and the Caspian Sea, the area between present-day Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, and then becoming invaders of Europe.

In addition to the historical roots, many other more recent events link the destinies of the Azeris and Magyars, as has been recalled by speeches and articles in the press of the two countries in recent days.

October 23 was the anniversary of the anti-Soviet Hungarian revolution of 1956, a truly bloody war for independence, which inevitably arouses comparisons with the events of recent days in Ukraine, Nagorno Karabakh and Palestine. Soviet troops invaded Hungary for three weeks, until November 11, with more than thirty thousand soldiers, 1130 tanks and more modern weapons than previous world wars, leaving over three thousand Hungarian victims on the field and a large number of seriously wounded.

One aspect that unites the events of 67 years ago with those of today is the ignorance of the Russian fighters (Asian, Caucasian and others), who did not know then where they had sent them; many thought they were in East Germany, that they would reach Berlin and drive out the hated Americans.

Indeed, the Hungarian events were decisive for the construction of the Berlin Wall, but many soldiers even thought they had ended up around the Suez Canal, another prophetic reminder of today's Middle Eastern conflicts. When troops were gathered on the borders of Ukraine last February and then invaded, many soldiers thought they were on an exercise, perhaps in Belarus or the Caucasus.

The confusion of the front lines and objectives is a factor that is repeated even in the internet age, and the Russian dezinformatsija, the fake news war which proclaimed the war in Ukraine as "liberation from Nazism", reporting the calendars back seventy years.

Then as now, the UN and the major international bodies are unable to protect defenseless citizens from the horrors of invasions and senseless wars; in 1956 every decision of the Glass Palace was blocked by vetoes from Moscow, against "interference in the internal affairs of Hungary".

Azerbaijan's ambassador to Hungary, Tair Tagizade, intervened to support the strengthening of the strategic partnership between the two countries, not only due to the common roots and friendly relations between the leaders, but above all to deal with "security threats  and for the needs of energy collaboration.

These aims were reiterated in Ilham Aliev's messages to Viktor Orban, which recommended creating a "bridge between the Turanian Union and the European Union".
A bear entered the kitchen at St. Regis Aspen Resort, pictured, and scratched a security guard on Monday night. Per Colorado Parks and Wildlife policy, the bear was found and euthanized on Wednesday
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The Israeli army said Thursday that its bombing raids on the Gaza Strip killed a Hamas commander, as the exchange of fire has continued between the Palestinian Islamist group and Israeli forces since they went to war on October 7.

"Based on intelligence, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) fighter jets killed the commander of the rocket battalion in the northern part of Khan Younis, Hasan al-Abdullah," an Israeli army spokesman said.

"IDF fighter jets continue to strike Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the Gaza Strip, including military command centres and rocket launching sites," the spokesman added.

IDF fighter jets carried out a precise air strike based on IDF and ISA intelligence and eliminated the Commander of Hamas' Northern Khan Yunis Rockets Array, Hassan Al-Abdullah. pic.twitter.com/HrDD4DXAU2  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Khan Younis is a town in the southern Gaza Strip that is home to several Palestinian refugee camps, and in recent hours Israeli naval forces attacked a Hamas surface-to-air missile launching post in the area.

Israeli "fighter jets struck more than 250 Hamas targets" in the past day, including "operational command centres, tunnels and rocket launchers located in the heart of civilian areas", from which the army claimed the militia has fired.

Since the war began 20 days ago, Israeli forces have killed a dozen senior Hamas officials.

On Wednesday, they shot down another commander of the northern battalion in Khan Younis, Taysir Mubasher, who was head of Hamas's naval command and held various positions in weapons manufacturing.

Israel declared war on Hamas on 7 October, following a massive attack by the Islamist group that left more than 1,400 people dead and 224 kidnapped. Israel's retaliatory bombardment of the Gaza Strip has left more than 7,000 Palestinians dead.
LUDZIDZINI- Senate-elect Fezeka Dlamini dodged advising the incoming government on how to combat corruption in the country.

A mix-up of topics to be presented created an awkward moment between Governor Sifiso Mashampu Khumalo and Senate-elect Dlamini, when she was supposed to present on how the country could deal with corruption. Dlamini was a panellist on the third day of Sibaya. She was given two topics to present on, which were education and corruption. Before she was given the platform to make her presentation, the governor stated that the reason she was given the two topics was because the members of the publics presentation delved a lot on non-relevant skills that were produced by universities and colleges in the country, as well as the high level of corruption, which had set the country backwards economically.

Some of the people who presented indicated that the University of Eswatini was producing graduates who were not industry relevant, thus making them unemployable. We would like to know what the country can do to find a link between industries and the university. Another dominant issue was corruption. Some of the speakers stated that there were efforts that were introduced to combat corruption, but what does the country need to do differently to combat corruption, he said. Dlamini made her presentation on education and production of relevant skills. She emphasised on the need of capitalising on agriculture because the sector could accommodate everyone, whether educated or not. A scene started unfolding when she had to make a presentation on how the country could address corruption. When Khumalo asked her to address corruption, Dlamini voiced out that she hadnt prepared herself to make a presentation on corruption.

Apologise

I apologise mngani wemakhosi, I was told that I will present on youth unemployment and agriculture, not corruption, she said. On the other hand, Khumalo told her that he was unaware that she was given topics, instead he was the one who was giving panellists topics, hence he advised her to start making the presentation on corruption. Bamba Fezeka yakho leyo lana unikwa ngimi itopic. Lets address corruption after education. Those who gave you topics were wrong, you were supposed to get the topics from me, said Khumalo, as he was responding to Dlamini. She shocked many and at the same time gained the heart of some attendees when she started addressing the Senate elections bribery claims. She asked not to present on the topic because she was also engulfed by the same issue. I think those who are well versed with the law can advise on how the country can deal with corruption. I think I might not be the ideal person to talk about corruption. It is a thorny issue to me as you will remember that I am one of the five women who were recently elected into Senate.

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Adding, I am also among the people accused of buying votes for the Senate seats. I would really appreciate it if you can hand over that topic to someone else because I am conflicted as well, she said. Her honesty gained her the love of the attendees as people started lauding her. She is very honest; that is brave of you young woman. Labanye bebatofuna kutenta ngatsi bati konkhe, some of the women said. Dlamini was not the only person who had challenges with the topics given, as Siphocisini Member of Parliament (MP) Mduduzi Matsebula highlighted that he was also given a topic which he had not prepared himself on. He went on to state that he would continue with the topic he was given by the governor. He did not disclose the topic he had been given earlier.
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At first, Mercedes-Benz USA will offer the 300rather than the no-nonsense 63 series from. Retailing at $57,000 from the outset, the GLC Coupe features a sport-tuned suspension, a 360-degree camera system, large driver and infotainment displays, Mercedes-Benz Navigation, and a wireless phone charging pad as standard.The sporty suspension is rather curious given that Merc has built its reputation by means of superlative comfort, quality, and engineering. Unfortunately for Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, both the quality and engineering leave much to be desired since the 1990s due to aggressive cost-cutting measures.Turning our attention back to the GLC Coupe, standard highlights further include a panoramic sunroof and heated front seats. In regard to options, the list kicks off with the AMG Line. Sportier wheels and exterior styling cues, perforated brake rotors, and body-color wheel arches pretty much sum up what youre getting for a meager $2,850.Next up, the Pinnacle Trim costs $2,950 and enhances the GLC Coupe with the likes of Augmented Video for Navigation, heat- and noise-insulating glass, a head-up display, DIGITAL LIGHT with Projections, and Burmester 3D Surround Sound audio. The Night Package further beautifies the rear-biased crossover with black-accented wheels from AMG (either 19s or 20s) and high-gloss black elements for the exterior. Think beltline and window trim, rear diffuser, and so on.The final option worthy of taking into consideration while configuring the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe is the Driver Assistance Package. Priced at nearly two grand, this package adds PRE-SAFE Brake with Pedestrian Recognition, Active Lane Change Assist, PRE-SAFE PLUS,PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist,PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop & Go Assist, the Driver Assistance Package Plus, Route-Based Speed Adaptation, and all that jazz.What is especially odd about said package is that the 2024 Toyota Prius features a Pre-Collision System w/ Pedestrian Detection completely as standard. Not a good look on the German automakers part, isnt it? But then again, Mercedes has a thing for charging extra for the stuff that mass-market manufacturers (such as Toyota) include as standard.Boasting a 12.3-inch drivers display and an 11.9-inch touchscreen for the MBUX infotainment system, the GLC Coupe uses a 2.0-liter turbo inline-four lump with 48-volt assistance. Rated at 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet (400 Nm) of twist, said powertrain is connected to a nine-speed auto.Zero to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour) is dealt with in a little over six seconds. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the combined fuel economy rating for the GLC Coupe is 26 miles per gallon (make that 9 liters per 100 kilometers). The GLC with 4MATIC is good for 27 (8.7), whereas the rear-drive GLC offers 29 (8.1).
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As such, we recently heard that Alfa's revival of the compact Giulietta nameplate remains a distinct possibility because the company is on a great path toward improved profitability  so it's not excluded by the CEO to seek a return in the hatchback segment, probably complete with a hot hatch.Of course, the Italian luxury brand should also take care of its current models  the Giulia sedan, Stelvio crossover, or the new Tonale CUV. We shouldn't count the 33 Stradale here, as that one is a one-time 33-unit affair designed to stir passion in the soul of automotive enthusiasts and car collectors.Anyway, the ultra-limited supercar is already sold out, so we can always go back to regular business to see what's new from Alfa Romeo. Well, this month, we only caught wind about the new Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio Carbon Editions that join the 2024 model year roster to look menacingly cool.Speaking of carbon, the rumor mill is also interested in knowing what the next Giulia sedan will look like. And the imaginative realm of digital car content creators is always ready and willing to oblige. For example, let us meet Tommaso D'Amico, an Italian digital creator who loves everything Italian and also cars. So, his work on the next-generation Giulia is not exactly a surprise, right?However, this unofficial design project is not going to be everyone's cup of tea for sure. While it keeps the classic triangular badge front and center, the ultra-slim headlight treatment and steeply racked engine hood won't be to everyone's liking, for sure. On the other hand, this design would totally stand out in any crowd if Alfa Romeo noticed it and inspired them to rework the next iteration  allegedly going completely electric  like this.Interestingly, it seems the virtual artist designed his unofficial Giulia with both possibilities in mind  an-powered Giulia, presumably the Quadrifoglio, with round exhaust outlets and lots of carbon fiber (the green car) while the other colors (blue, yellow, etc) apparently don't have anything else but battery power under the CGI skin. Speaking of things that aren't usually seen from the outside, the pixel master also went through the trouble of envisioning a potential cabin design for the Giulia project.Overall, it's not a bad attempt at securing an exotic future for the Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan. If you like his Italian cars, note that we also embedded his vision of the reborn Fiat Chroma GT  a nameplate that lived two different lifestyles, one as a liftback between 1985 and 1996 and the other as a big crossover between anand a traditional station wagon from 2005 to 2010.
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During a recent sitdown with Autocar, Alfa Romeo's head honcho hinted at a possible revival of the hatchback. "I'm not sure that we don't make money, even on a hatchback."Mind you, that's anything but a confirmation. Nonetheless, it is enough to give Alfisti hope that a proper successor to the Giulietta could be on the table. Its indirect successor is the Tonale crossover, which shares its nuts and bolts with the Jeep Compass, and it has a North American cousin in the shape of the Dodge Hornet.A hypothetically new Alfa Romeo hatch would need to use an electric powertrain, as the car marque plans to go all-quiet from 2027. The most logical move for the Stellantis-owned brand would be to build it on the STLA Medium platform, which is the foundation stone of the all-new Peugeot e-3008 . It will also be used on the future Lancia Delta and on the successors to the Peugeot 308 and Opel/Vauxhall Astra, among others.This architecture was primarily designed to accommodate battery-electric powertrains. However, it is also compatible with good-old internal combustion units, so an-powered successor to the Giulietta could be sold alongside thevariant(s) at first to make it more appealing. However, in order for Alfa Romeo to experiment with such models and to bring a new Giulietta to the market, it would need to become profitable, so nothing is certain at this point.In addition to a potentially new compact hatchback, which would take a swing at the BMW 1 Series, Mercedes A-Class (said to be discontinued after 2025), and Audi A3 Sportback, Alfa Romeo seems interested in a totally different model: a minivan . We kid you not, such a vehicle was hinted by the company's chief designer recently.It has been reported that an Alfa Romeo-branded people carrier could be based on the STLA Large platform, and it might take a swing at either the Lexus LM with hybrid power or the Volkswagen ID. Buzz if given an all-quiet powertrain. Chances are that it might not launch in Western markets if it gets the green light for production, as it appears that the Italian car marque might offer it in China solely.Another Alfa that might be a few years away is the large, which is expected to launch in 2027. But if given the choice, which one would tickle your fancy better? Would it be the people carrier, the flagship high-rider, or the hypothetical successor to the Giulietta hatchback?
The Japan Mobility Show, Tokyo's rebranded automotive and mobility show, returns this weekend, and all major Japanese carmakers are ready to showcase their innovative designs. Daihatsu, a subsidiary of Toyota, has prepared an impressive fleet of visionary vehicles showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

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Daihatsu is a name that might not ring too many bells with car lovers in the US and Europe, as the company pulled out of those markets many years ago, but the automaker is renowned locally for its compact, fun, and practical vehicles, including kei car models, kei trucks, and kei vans.Daihatsu's exhibit at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 is centered on the theme of "Staying Close to Our Customers and Enriching Their Lives," with the company bringing a fleet of 11 cars at the auto event, including five concept cars and six historical vehicles.With the Daihatsu Me:Mo, Uniform Truck, Uniform Cargo, Daihatsu Osanpo, and Vision Copen concepts, the company reinforces its commitment to aligning its offering with the ever-evolving needs of its customers. Each of the new car concepts presented by Daihatsu embodies the brand's vision for the future of mobility, a future centered around people and their societal needs, in which vehicles are not just transportation means but integral parts of our lives.The Me:Mo is a futuristic compact vehicle envisioned as a personal mobility solution underpinned by the idea of "Redefining the relationship between cars and people." It features a modular design in order to adapt to people's different lifestyles and needs, with users able to customize its interior layout and functionality. Moreover, its versatility is enhanced by advanced connectivity and autonomous driving technologies.For the urban logistics sector, Daihatsu has envisioned two compact electric utility vehicles called the Uniform Truck and Uniform Cargo. While the former is a delivery vehicle, the latter is a cargo vehicle and features a higher roof, but both are designed to easily navigate narrow streets and congested areas.The diverse fleet of concepts continues with the Daihatsu Osanpo, a high-riding, compact electricwhose name comes from the Japanese word for "walk" or "stroll." And it's quite a fitting name for the concept, as the convertible car is designed to be used for leisure and recreational activities. According to the company, it aims to offer "relaxed enjoyment, with the overwhelming quietness that is the characteristic of BEVs and the openness provided by the slightly higher vehicle height, as if you're taking a walk through nature."Finally, the Vision Copen represents Daihatsu's vision for the future of its sporty roadster. Unlike the company's current offering, a two-door convertible kei car that was introduced in 2002, the Vision Copen concept is closer in size to a 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata, measuring 151 inches in length. It has a lightweight, aerodynamic body and is powered by a 1.3-liter engine. Just like the Mazda, the concept sportscar adopts a rear-wheel drive layout.Inside, the Vision Copen features a digital instrument cluster, a small infotainment, and capacitive-touch buttons.Designed with people's diverse needs in mind, all these concept cars from Daihatsu prove the carmaker's understanding of the changing urban landscape and its commitment to staying close to customers' lives.
Fisker recently applied a generous price adjustment to its most well-equipped Ocean crossover SUV. The Extreme trim, which includes almost all the bells and whistles, became $7,500 cheaper. Those who paid more for a one-of-5,000 Ocean One were disappointed about not receiving the same discount. However, Fisker learned from its past mistakes and came up with a comprehensive reward package for its early adopters. Here's the gist of it.

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A few days ago, Fisker announced a pricing policy shift . The Fisker Extreme's MSRP dropped to $61,499 (for everyone!), while the lesser versions  the Ultra and the Sport  kept their prices. The latter were, however, scheduled for a modest price hike starting from November 6.The young automaker's decision to apply discounts out of the blue was a wise move. It made the well-equipped Ocean Extreme more appealing to prospective buyers and protected itself from a hefty profit margin drop by announcing scheduled MSRP increases for the Ultra and Sport trims.One thing Fisker temporarily forgot about was that it had 5,000 customers who were early supporters and paid $68,999 before taxes and fees for a fully loaded Ocean One . They were not included in this round of discounts. The company argued that they benefitted from a complete car that came with a ton of extras.An all-electric crossovermight not be an iconic vehicle or something that can transform into a future classic. Still, it's worth noting that the reborn carmaker gave each unit its own unique serial number. One owners won't see the generic "1 of 5,000" on their cars.Now, they can feel content with their choice to support Fisker's rebirth because the brand has created a comprehensive reward package that's arguably even better than the $7,500 price reduction applied to the Ocean Extreme Fisker informed its early supporters that they would benefit from a no-cost infotainment system update. That's not related to software. It's about an upgraded chip that guarantees the vehicle's computer will run like new. The part is expected to arrive in 2025 and is estimated to cost nearly $3,000.When the PEAR was introduced, the automaker said the Ocean's little sibling would come with a so-called "Blade" computer capable of doing more than just providing customers with the usual infotainment activities. As such, the chip upgrade might prove to be a worthwhile upgrade.Fisker also promised that every over-the-air software update would be completely free for Ocean One customers. This indicates the brand might be preparing exclusive features that will either be available as subscriptions or through pricey one-time payments.The buyers of the limited-editionwill also enjoy unlimited premium wireless connectivity and will have their systems upgraded from 4G to 5G next year. Fisker also plans on adding or enabling the hotspot functionality for 10 years.As software is paramount in today's automotive world, the EV maker says Ocean One customers will be the first to experience all the novelties. But that's not all.The brand is also extending the Ocean One's warranty to seven years or 72,000 miles, adds a four-year or 12,000-mile service package that ensures service won't cost the customer a dime, and even includes a free set of Bridgestone tires when the existing rubber rings will have to be replaced.Making the reward package even better, Fisker also added a $1,000 ChargePoint gift card available throughout 2024 and an automatic subscription to the One Membership Club. No details are available on exactly what this means, but details will be provided to eligible Ocean One buyers soon.To top it all off, Fisker also throws some limited-edition merch at the 5,000 customers who bought the all-electric crossover SUV and promises them access to special events and private test drive opportunities with the PEAR and Alaska. On some occasions, maybe even the pricey Ronin will be made available.All this proves Fisker is serious about becoming one of America's important automakers as we transition from gas-powered passenger cars to zero-emission vehicles.
New York City, NY: Saturday, October 28  Sunday, October 29

Chicago, IL: Friday, November 3  Sunday, November 5

Minneapolis, MN: Friday, November 10  Saturday, November 11

Saint Paul, MN: Sunday, November 12  Monday, November 13

Rochester, NY: Friday, November 17  Saturday, November 18

The patch works, but

Photo: Fox 2 Detroit on YouTUbe

Photo: Fox 2 Detroit on YouTUbe

The company refers to them as mobile clinics, allowing drivers to bring their vulnerable Hyundais to certain locations, get the patch, and then drive home without fearing that someone would steal their car.Viral TikTok videos taught netizens how to steal Hyundai and Kia models without an immobilizer. The method comes down to breaking into a car, typically by smashing a side window, breaking open the steering wheel column, and plugging a cable into a port that lets thieves drive away freely. The hack has become increasingly widespread, leading to thousands of thefts in the United States.Hyundai says the software update resolves the vulnerability by adding an ignition kill. Drivers must lock the doors with the key fob, enabling the factory alarm and activating the ignition kill. If someone breaks into the vehicle, they won't be able to start the car without the key fob. As a result, drivers must always use the key fob to unlock their vehicles and disable the ignition kill.The South Korean carmaker says the software update works , and it has already been installed on nearly one million eligible Hyundai models.The company will hold five software update events as per the following schedule:Installing the update only takes 30 minutes, and Hyundai says that customers can also take their cars to dealerships to receive the patch. The update is free.Despite being part of the affected model years, Hyundai explains that some vehicles can't receive the new software update, so the only way is to protect the car with a steering wheel lock. The carmaker will reimburse car owners for their purchase of such devices.Hyundai guarantees that the software update serves its purpose, so the bad TikTok boyz won't be able to drive away in your car.That's good news, but a patch still doesn't resolve the problem.As many Hyundai and Kia owners learned the hard way, the thieves don't know what car has already received the software update. The only way to find out is to break into the vehicle and try to start it. If the viral method on TikTok doesn't work, it's a patched car. Otherwise, they could turn on the engine and drive away.As a result, Hyundai and Kia models still have a target on their backs, as thieves are still tempted to break into them to see if they received the patch. Eventually, they produce damage that costs thousands of dollars to resolve, such as broken windows and damaged columns.Customers are also provided with stickers to inform that the vehicle is secure, but even so, many Hyundai and Kia owners prefer to purchase third-party hardware that would eventually add another protection layer to their cars and make thieves walk away.Larger stickers, steering wheel locks, and even AirTags planted into the vehicle helped deal with a problem that Hyundai needed years to resolve.Customers who didn't want to give up on their vehicles are now forced to deal with an increased risk of theft, which produces other shortcomings, too. Insurance costs went through the roof after the TikTok hack went viral, and the resale value of Hyundai and Kia models dropped significantly in the United States, mainly because nobody wants a car that can get stolen in seconds.Hyundai emphasizes in its announcement that it worked with law enforcement agencies to provide customers who purchased a vulnerable vehicle with free steering wheel locks, claiming it also collaborated with AAA to offer insurance options to those affected by the TikTok madness.All these anti-theft measures still don't keep thieves away from Hyundai and Kia models. Social media platforms are filled with complaints from owners whose vehicles were stolen overnight, often recovered by the police one or two days later in horrible condition. Some of these cars are totaled, while others exhibit damage worth thousands of dollars.Hyundai says it'll contact customers on all possible means, including mail, email, and phone, with anti-theft software installation details to be published on its website and in paid media. The purpose is to install the patch on all vulnerable vehicles and, if this isn't possible, to provide customers with reimbursements for their steering wheel locks.The company also created a website where you can provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) to tell if your vehicle can receive the software patch.
Back in May 2023, the peeps at Jaguar Land Rover North America recalled 6,367 units of the I-Pace crossover due to a high risk of thermal overload. The remedy came in the form of updated software for the battery energy control module.

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What kind of software? According to the British automaker, its designed to monitor the high-voltage battery for conditions that may lead to thermal overload. The BECM limits charging capacity to 75 percent if a risk is identified. Vehicles that experienced this warning message had their battery packs replaced by the folks at Jaguar Land Rover North America at no cost to the owners.Fast forward to October 2023, and the British manufacturer issued yet another recall comprising vehicles that had the recall action incorrectly completed by a retailer. Jag became aware of this condition in September 2023 by means of a field report over thermal overload. Otherwise said, a battery fire. As per documents filed with the federal watchdog, the thermal overload in question led to a vehicle fire. Jaguar did not detail how serious of a vehicle fire, though...Following this event, Jag looked into the matter, determining that a retailer used a non-approved service diagnostic tool for updating the BECM software. By using the wrong tool, the update failed. No fewer than 199 vehicles are included in this follow-up recall, I-Pace vehicles with production dates ranging between February 2018 and February 2023 for the 2019 through 2023 model years.Not surprising anyone, the remedy comes in the form of a software update via the correct service diagnostic tool. Jaguar Land Rovers North American division further recommends owners to park away from structures for 30 days after the update. Care to guess why? Obviously enough, a thermal event may occur at any given moment, and the battery fire could spread rapidly.Dealers will be notified of this recall no later than November 2, whereas I-Pace owners will be informed by first-class mail on or about December 15. In the meantime, said owners can use thes VIN look-up tool to determine whether their all-electric crossovers are recalled or not.A poor-selling vehicle from the outset, Jaguars only electric vehicle moved a meager 439 units last year in the United States of America. The best calendar year for the I-Pace in this part of the world was 2019 thanks to a grand total of 2,594 deliveries in the US and US territories.The numbers for Europe are obviously higher, yet still abysmal compared to the likes of the Tesla Model Y and more affordable EVs from mass-market brands. Part of the reason the I-Pace failed is the poor driving range, and another part comes in the guise of exorbitant pricing. Think 73,495 in the United Kingdom, 92,400 in Germany, and $72,000 (excluding freight charge) in the United States.Rated at 394 horsepower and 4.5 seconds to 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour), the I-Pace flaunts a 90-battery pack. Estimated range? According to the EPA, that would be 234 miles or 377 kilometers. By comparison, the Tesla Model Y in base spec offers 260 miles (418 kilometers).
MBABANE  Was the microphone grabbed from Sibusiso Dlamini because he had exceeded the time limit, or his submissions struck a raw nerve?

Though he is Secretary General of the African United Democratic Party (AUDP), Dlamini was speaking in his personal capacity as liSwati, with a thick bloodline from the house of King Sobhuza I. A deeper analysis of his submission at Sibaya on Tuesday can reveal that he started drawing attention when he spoke about the need for emaSwati to bless the prime minister first, before he can be appointed by the King. The crowd reacted with murmurs and noise, without being clear if this was an approval or disapproval of the submission. There was a marked suspense when he quoted the Constitution, to qualify his point, but when he touched on the separation of powers, more especially between Parliament and the Executive, the moderator, Zodwa Dlamini, interjected to tell him that his time was up. At this time, he had only spoken for 1:50 minutes.

It should be noted that at the time he made his submission, the time allocated to each speaker had not been stated. The three minutes time allocation was mentioned after one speaker, Mabaleka Dlamini of Ezulwini, stretched his presentation to over six minutes. Back to Dlamini, after being told to wrap up, he then hurriedly got to his second point, that of registration of political parties. Sibusiso said political parties must be registered so that they contest for power, instead of restricting the qualification for a Parliament seat to individual representation at elections. As he said this, the moderator was shutting him up by repeatedly saying sesiyabonga (thank you).

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He had spoken for 2:07 minutes and was about to qualify his second point, when the microphone was forcefully grabbed from him. He raised his hands in astonishment and went to sit down. In a hastily prepared press statement on Tuesday afternoon, Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo said Dlamini was stopped because he had exceeded his time limit. Government wishes to assure the nation that the only reason the microphone was grabbed from Mr Dlamini was because the time allocated to him had elapsed and had nothing to do with the contents of his submissions, Nxumalo said. However, the Times listened to the recordings captured by Eswatini TV and found that Sibusiso had only spoken for 1:50 minutes, when the moderator told him to sit down. The microphone was grabbed at 2:07 minutes.

Worth noting, there were about six other speakers who had spoken for more minutes but the microphone was not grabbed from them. There were only warnings from the moderators after they had spoken for over 2:30 minutes and the microphone was neither switched off nor grabbed from them. These included former Lobamba MP Majahodvwa Khumalo, who spoke for 2:35 minutes, while posing a question to Mathendele Dlamini. Joyce Gama also spoke for 3:32 minutes, also asking a question from Mbabane West MP Jane Simelane. There were many others who spoke in excess of two minutes and they included Makhosazane Dlamini, Bhekisizwe Dlamini, Wandile Gamedze and others. All of these were speaking in the category of posing questions and were not making presentations like the panellists.

The video in which Sibusiso had the microphone grabbed from him was widely circulated on social media since Tuesday afternoon and had attracted condemnation from members of the public. Some heaped praises on Sibusiso for his articulate quotation of the Constitution. Others predicted that he would be victimised. Wangenake enkingeni umntfwanebantfu utova kutsi two months from now sovele phambi kwelijaji ngelicala lelingevakali, said one bemoaning that Sibusiso could land himself in trouble because in two months time, he could be arrested for a fictitious crime. Another said: vele kusho kutsi bafuna kubhungwe mbamba lapha, emaciniso abawafuni, which loosely translates to; they want Sibaya to be a platform for chit-chat only, they dont want the truth. Many on Facebook said the incident was the reason they would never ever set foot at Sibaya, because whatever they wanted to say would not be listened to.
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In other words, the heated rear seats may overheat due to iffy software. Controlled by the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, the American company became aware of this problem in August 2023 after a customer experienced rear seat charring. Through September 2023, three other customer vehicles experienced either charring or discoloration due to the overheating condition.As per documents filed with the, one customer burned one of their fingers by touching the discolored leather upholstery. Given these circumstances, Lucid promptly decided to escalate this matter to the Product Safety Executive Council. You know, the guys who determine whether a given condition should be remedied by recall or not.Software versions 2.1.0 through 2.1.20 dont monitor and control the rear seat temperature properly (in certain situations and vehicle modes, that is). The remedy comes in the form of software version 2.1.26 and later. Owners are urged to update to 2.1.26 or newer versions as soon as possible.Affected owners will be informed by first-class mail on or about December 11. Lucid Customer Care and service centers will be much obliged to assist anyone in updating their vehicles to the latest software version. Lucid says that electric sedans produced since September 9 run newer versions.Recall number 23V-708 comprises 1,267 vehicles built at Casa Grande in Arizona between November 10, 2021 and August 31, 2023. Owners who replaced the rear seats due to charring and/or discoloration are eligible for reimbursement. Said owners may contact Lucid Customer Care at either 1-888-99-LUCID or 1-888-995-8243.23V-708 is the eighth recall of the 2022 Lucid Air and the fifth for the 2023 model. Prior to said recall, the electric sedan was called back over windshield wipers that may fail, software that may not display the warning message for a loss of power, a rearview camera image that may not display, electric motors shutting down unexpectedly, detaching front tow eye brackets, disabled display screens, as well as front strut damper snap rings that may go kaput.Rather than blaming Lucid for all of them, its worth remembering that Lucid is a relatively new and somewhat inexperienced automaker. On the other hand, also remember that Tesla still experiences rather shocking quality- and software-related issues after surviving manufacturing hell with the production ramp-up of the D-segment Model 3.At press time, Lucids zero-emission sedan can be had in four distinct flavors, those being the Pure, Touring, Grand Touring, and the no-nonsense Sapphire with tri-motor muscle. Pricing ranges between $77,400 for the Pure RWD and $249,000 for the performance-oriented Sapphire. Come November 16, the automakers lineup will welcome the Gravity sport utility vehicle. Of course, the newcomer shares its underpinnings with the Air.
A UK rental car company decided to add Rivian's all-electric pickup truck to its fleet. Whilst that's a great thing for the Irvine-based automaker because it helps with brand awareness, the cost to make the R1T temporarily yours will not get many curious people to drive one. Renting it costs an arm and a leg, no matter how you look at it.

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5,274 ($6,395) per month if you extend the rental agreement for one full year;

5,034 ($6,104) per month if you want to keep it for two years;

4,794 ($5,813) per month if you don't want to leave it to someone else for three years.

There's no denying that Rivian made quite an impact in North America. Its EVs are cool, practical, and have a certain appeal to them that makes even Europeans curious. Some even imported their own R1S or R1T to places like Ireland or Poland despite not having access to an authorized service center over the pond. A couple of R1Ts are even roaming around an African reservation.Last year, we told you about Sixt, one of Europe's largest rent-a-car companies, and its plans to import Rivian's zero-emission pickup truck and. That would have signaled an important development for the Americanmaker as it could have meant the switch to CCS Combo 2 and maybe even the establishment of a service center. Sadly, it didn't work out.As things stand today, Rivian is officially sending just the EDV to Europe. From 2026 onwards, the young automaker might also export the R2-series to some specific markets on the Old Continent.But entrepreneurs understood that Rivian could have the same effect on people as Tesla did back in the day. EVision, a UK-based rental car company, bought an R1T and added it to its fleet. Even though they can only fast-charge the pickup truck with a CCS Combo 1 to CCS Combo 2 adapter, the entity wanted to be among the first to offer such an opportunity to curious people.If you visit the UK and want to drive an American vehicle on European roads, the 835-hp R1T is there for you. But don't say we didn't warn you: the rates aren't very attractive.Renting Rivian's pickup truck for a single day will set you back 990 ($1,200) with the value-added tax (VAT) included. You'll only be able to drive 150 miles without incurring an extra cost of $0.28 per mile.To put that figure in perspective, financing a quad-motor R1T paired with the large-pack energy storage unit is only slightly more expensive: with a downpayment of $10,000 over a 72-month period results in a monthly car note of $1,452.This company also requires its customers to be at least 30 years old. You'll have to find your own comprehensive insurance if you're younger. As such, that's another extra cost.The Glacier White quad-motor R1T can also be rented for more extended periods, but the costs don't look any better. A week with this Rivian EV in the UK will set you back 3,114 ($3,776) and 5,994 ($7,268) for a month.Things get slightly cheaper if you're willing to spend more time with the pickup truck:Finally, one can only wonder  is it worth it? You let us know. One thing's for sure: great EVs aren't meant for everyone just yet.
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The actual good news is that while BMW is showcasing the first-ever iX2 coupe-in Japan during the inaugural Japan Mobility Show , the Land Down Under can prepare to welcome two versions from the middle of next year into the fold  BMW iX2 eDrive20 and xDrive30. These two are also eligible for the Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) electric car exemption and join the i4 eDrive35, iX3 M Sport, iX1 eDrive20, and iX1 xDrive30 in the series of models that are below LCT and FBT.According to BMW Australia, when the iX2 arrives on the market, they will have "the widest selection of fully electric vehicles"  meaning 15 versions across sevenmodels. The iX2 eDrive20 and iX2 xDrive30 are priced from AUD82,900 and AUD85,700, respectively  which is the equivalent of $52k and $54k, respectively. Unfortunately, there's no way to compare them with US market specifics as BMW decided not to bring the iX2 to America , only its-powered X2 sibling.The base eDrive20 model has a single electric motor and a temporary-boosted peak output of 150(201 hp), plus a battery pack of 64.8of usable energy, enabling arating of 477 kilometers on a full charge  that's 296 miles but keep in mind that this standard is more enthusiastic than EPA's findings. Secondly, the xDrive30 comes with dual electric motors, electric, and a max rating of 230 kW (308 hp). The iX2 xDrive30 sprints to 100 kph (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds and tops at 180 kph (112 mph).The battery is the same, and the range can vary between 417 and 449 km (WLTP), which is 259 to 279 miles. BMW uses various tricks and treats for that, like adaptive energy recuperation and the Max Range function. Plus, the DC fast charge rating stands at 130 kW, so that it can recoup 10 to 80% of charge in as little as half an hour. When you're not in a hurry, the AC system tops the battery with up to 22kW  the highest standard rate (alongside iX1).The full charging solution package for the iX2 xDrive30 includes the Flexible Fast Charger for home sockets, a Mode 3 charging cable, and a 12-month subscription to the national Chargefox network. Currently, BMW has only announced the full specification and the options for the iX2 xDrive 30. The standard goodies include perks like the BMW Iconic Glow illuminated kidney, Live Cockpit Pro 10.7 plus 10.25-inch curved widescreen infotainment setup, Operating System 9, BMW Iconic Sounds Electric, and more.
Meet the worlds oldest Lamborghini Countach. It is the oldest Countach in existance and it comes with quite a story. Now, the car is on display at the 40th edition of the Auto e Moto dEpoca classic car show that takes place in Bologna, Italy.

Lamborghini brought bare metal to the classic car show in Bologna

Photo: Lamborghini

Lamborghini participates in the classic car show for the first time. It does it in its 60th anniversary year and does it in style. The Italians took the very first Countach ever built to the Auto e Moto d'Epoca event.It is a 1973 Lamborghini Countach LP 400 , chassis #001 (1120001), which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on March 15, 1973. The model does bear similarities with the LP 500 show car, which had been on display in Geneva three years before, but not that many. It was actually more similar to the production car, scheduled to arrive in 1974.This Countach was originally painted in red. Once the Geneva Motor Show was over, the carmaker used it for test and development trials. Several months before, the prototype had been the star of a photo shoot for the leading British magazines of the period. Behind the wheel was test driver, automotive engineer, and mechanic Bob Wallace. The photographs were shot on the way to SantAgata Bolognese, the home of Automobili Lamborghini.Years wrapped in mystery followed for the oldest Countach in existance. The car simply seemed to vanish. Nobody outside Lamborghini knew where the red Lamborghini Countach was. The firm took a Countach LP 400 painted in Verde Medio (green) at the car shows that followed. But still no sign of the red Lambo from Geneva.The truth behind all the mystery was that the vehicle had been painted from red to green and left like that. But during a restoration procedure that took place in 2003, after the LP 400 was found in Switzerland, experts found out that it was the exact car that had been exhibited at the Geneva Motor Show 30 years before. Under the layer of green paint, there was the original red. What everyone thought to be two different cars, two distinct Lambos, were, in fact, one and the same.And there is one iconic model keeping the Countach company at the Auto e Moto dEpoca classic car show. It is the 1972 Espada Series 3, the first four-seater produced by Lamborghini. Chassis number 8824, it was powered by a front-mounted 12-cylinder engine. It could came with seats for four passengers and offered plenty of luggage space, too, yet remaining fast. Lamborghini kind of fast.Lamborghini introduced the second series Espada in 1970, and the S3 debuted two years later. The final version remained in production until 1978. The car, which is now on display at the classic car show as a work in progress, was delivered on September 28, 1972, to a Lamborghini dealer in the Milan area and then shipped to its first owner, a customer from Japan, a Lambo enthusiast.It looks the way it does because it is in the middle of a restoration process, carried out by Polo Storico, the department of Automobile Lamborghini that is responsible for classic car restoration, the certification of classic cars, and the organization of events dedicated to collectors. After the restoration is completed, the car will return to its owner in Japan.
The United Auto Workers (UAW) union was scrutinized for striking right when the Detroit Three (GM, Ford, and Stellantis) started playing catch-up with Tesla. Many car owners online also expressed dissatisfaction about the initiative, claiming it would lead to higher car prices and longer repair times. However, the UAW stood firm and acted according to a well-defined plan. They've just scored an important first win.

Photo: UAW

an immediate 11% wage increase for all Ford workers;

a 25% general wage increase (without the COLA) over 4.5 years;

a 68% wage increase for new employees and a 33% raise for those earning the maximum for their post over the same period of 4.5 years;

the COLA's return, which adds another 5% to the general wage increase;

an over 150% wage increase for temporary workers;

an 85% immediate raise for lower-tiered workers;

the reintroduction of the three-year wage progression;

wage tier elimination;

$3 more for the pension multiplier;

the right to strike over plant closures (which might come in handy as brands move toward total electrification).

Record profits mean record contracts. We have a tentative agreement at Ford. #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/Z00T5CfQJN  UAW (@UAW) October 26, 2023

In July, the UAW started negotiations for a new national contract with Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis. They couldn't reach a favorable outcome, so a stalemate period began. That was until September 15, when the workers started striking But instead of having all 150,000 members leave their posts and join the picket lines, the UAW approached this situation methodically. The leadership asked only some workers to stop showing up as scheduled and always remained available to bargain. If the negotiations continued to result in no agreement, they would threaten to expand the strikes.That was exactly what happened, and nobody can accuse the UAW of crippling America's most important auto brands. They escalated gradually, transparently, and without causing too much turbulence. It was (and still is) a brilliant strategy because it left everything in the hands of the companies.Now, Ford has decided it had enough of this back-and-forth and offered the UAW leadership a good counteroffer. Initially, the organization wanted a four-day, 32-hour workweek, a 46% raise over four years (which was subsequently dropped to 36%), better health benefits, higher pensions, and, among other things, the reinstatement of the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and no employment tiers.Ford was the only one willing to bargain seriously with UAW and offered the best deal. Still, it wasn't enough for the workers. They continued striking.But now, things are taking a different turn. UAW President Shawn Fain announced last night that they have reached a tentative agreement with Ford . They obtained:All those things (and others that will be detailed soon) amount to an overall value increase of four times over the worth of the 2019 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).But it doesn't stop here. Every UAW member will have a chance to analyze the deal and share their opinion. The accord enters a four-stage process that allows workers to verify it thoroughly and vote on it.Until then, Fain told Ford's striking employees to return to work. The Blue Oval averted a crisis and should come on top of the situation. Meanwhile, GM and Stellantis are still not willing to budge. They'll most likely have to, now that one of the Detroit Three has "ponied up."Finally, it's worth remembering that many of the advantages won during this complicated bargaining stage were lost after the 2008 financial crisis. Workers agreed to get paid less to hold onto their jobs and help the companies navigate those troubled times.
Leapmotor. Talk about anywhere but China and people will look at you with a massive question mark on their faces. Mention it in China, and most people will tell you about the C11 and how the company is selling reasonably well there. That starts to explain why Stellantis made a deal with this Chinese carmaker and why this arrangement is more important than it may seem.

Photo: Leapmotor

BEV

Photo: Leapmotor

The companies that are now under the Stellantis umbrella have tried multiple times to have a good presence in the world's largest market and failed in all of them. In July 2009, Fiat created a joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Corporation (GAC) , a state-owned automaker. In June 2009, the Italian automaker had already purchased a stake in Chrysler that would eventually lead to the creation of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA).The joint venture never had a commercial success. It has even tried to sell a hatchback version of the 2013 Dodge Dart as a Fiat there  called Ottimo  but it did not work. In 2019, FCA became Stellantis when it merged with the PSA Group. In 2022, Carlos Tavares tried to fully control the GAC Fiat Chrysler joint venture, which GAC refused. That led to the bankruptcy of that company. Nowadays, Stellantis has only one joint venture in China called Dongfeng Peugeot-Citroen. It has developed the CMP platform. In its electric version  the eCMP  it is currently crucial for Stellantis entry-level electric vehicles.That may have been the moment when Stellantis realized it would need Chinese help to make convincing progress when it comes to electric vehicles. Sadly, the Citroen and Peugeot products made in China are not that popular. The giant automaker may have realized it does not need to commercialize its own products in China: it just has to sell well there, regardless of the badge its vehicles use.The Leapmotor deal will make Stellantis put 1.5 billion ($1.584 billion at the current exchange rate) in the Chinese company. The investment's goal is to buy a 20% stake in it and have two seats on the Board of Directors. On top of that, the companies created the Leapmotor International joint venture, which has exclusive rights for manufacturing, selling, and distributing Leapmotor vehicles outside China . Stellantis controls it in a 51%/49% arrangement.The two companies said that the Leapmotor lineup is complimentary to Stellantis' new energy vehicle (NEV) offerings, but the advantages of the deal go way beyond that. Stellantis knows very well how to sell a vehicle in Europe and America. It has thousands of dealers on these continents; it knows the customers and how to address them. Leapmotor's best-seller is the C11, but the company lacks the scale  and probably the money  to reach larger audiences, both in China and abroad.That said, the money injection from the European titan will help Leapmotor expand production, sales, and its lineup in a market it knows well. On the other hand, Stellantis will have a rather successful brand to sell in its main markets, one that even shares Carlos Tavares' vision for NEVs: above all, they must be competitively priced.The company's new platform is called LEAP 3.0, and it can underpin battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs). The latter are cars powered solely by electric motors that also have combustion engines to make them travel further if the energy in their battery packs is not enough. Li Auto only sells this kind of vehicle, and it is doing pretty well in China. Leapmotor needs a little help.In September, Zhu Jiangming told Reuters that he knew the company needed to multiply its sales by at least five to survive the consolidation of theindustry the Chinese government is promoting. The Leapmotors founder and CEO wanted to reach at least 500,000 units per year; in 2022, his company sold only 111,000 vehicles. Curiously, he said that China alone would not allow Leapmotor to achieve that goal. Although it is the world's largest market, it is also one of the most competitive ones.It would not surprise anyone if Stellantis eventually bought the Chinese brand and turned Zhu into a Stellantis shareholder. For the Chinese businessman, it probably sounded like a better idea to have a percentage of something significant than to control 100% of a company in danger. As Leapmotor is a private company, Carlos Tavares would also have no reason to complain about political interferences, as it happened with GAC.According to Bloomberg, the Stellantis CEO said he had "been seeing over the last few years more and more political interference in the world of business in China." He also said that the competition with Chinese brands in the electric car world would be a "terrible fight." Shortly after signing the deal with Leapmotor, Tavares criticized the European Commission probe to determine if Chinese automakers have unfair competitive advantages in BEVs.According to Reuters, Tavares said : "We like competition. To start a probe is not the best way to tackle those questions." It would be enlightening to hear his suggestions to make the dispute with Chinese brands an even field, especially now that Stellantis has one of them to distribute worldwide.
In a very short period of time drones have become some of the deadliest and most widespread weapons on the battlefields of the world. And I'm not talking here about the big, military ones we already know to fly for years now, but about the small, even off-the-shelf solutions that can be adapted for warfare use in a heartbeat.

Such drones , impossible to detect and stop by conventional means, can prove deadly for infantry, but also tanks and other military gear and installation. The war in Ukraine more than proved that, and things will probably get even more complicated as time goes by.The American military is currently researching several solutions to this problem. One of them is the so-called Low, slow, small-unmanned aircraft Integrated Defense System (LIDS).As part of this research, defense contractor Raytheon demonstrated this summer a piece of technology called KuRFS. That's short for Ku-band Radio Frequency Sensor, a radar technology "that senses incoming drones, rockets, artillery and mortars."The system was initially developed to provide a layer of defense against such threats for soldiers fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. It was first used back in 2013, and has since grown to a total of 1.6 million operational hours.It can be installed on a variety of vehicular platforms, and can be used to control and direct a wide range of weapons, including the Phalanx Weapon System, 50-caliber guns, and 30 mm cannons.For defense against drones it can work in conjunction with the Coyote weapons system. That would be another Raytheon tech that is itself a drone.The KuRFS works by means of active electronically scanned array, meaning it comprises a rather large number of small antennas instead of a single, larger one. This allows for better beam control.Separately, the Ku-band of the electromagnetic spectrum allows operators to get higher-resolution imaging of the targets being tracked, and it even has the ability to keep tabs with birds flying in its area of operation.The KuRFS  Coyote setup was at the center of the Army's summer tests, and judging by what we're told, all test requirements against high-speed, maneuvering targets have been met.In words we can all understand, the system proved it is capable of tracking not only individual drones, but swarms of them. More then 30 targets fell under the system's scrutiny, and Coyotes were then directed to take them out.As per a contract it awarded Raytheon back in 2022, the U.S. Army plans to equip two of its divisions with LIDS. Earlier this year, another contract was awarded targeting a third Army division. On top of that, the company says there is increased interest in the technology from international partners as well.
It followed a disputed presidential election in which former President Levon Ter-Petrosian was the main opposition candidate. Scores of his supporters clashed with riot police on March 1-2, 2008 during an opposition rally in central Yerevan led by Nikol Pashinian, then a newspaper editor. Eight protesters and two police servicemen died in the violence that led outgoing President Robert Kocharian to declare a state of emergency and order Armenian army units into the capital.

Dozens of people, including Pashinian, were arrested and jailed in an ensuing crackdown on the Ter-Petrosian-led opposition accused of plotting to overthrow the government. Investigators completely changed the official version of events after Pashinian swept to power in 2018.

Kocharian and about a dozen former officials were indicted in connection with the crackdown. Some of them, including the ex-president, were acquitted by courts while others fled Armenia.

The suspects also included Gegham Petrosian, who was a deputy commander of Armenian interior troops during the 2008 clashes. A law-enforcement agency now called the Anti-Corruption Committee (ACC) arrested him in June 2019 on charges of killing one of the opposition demonstrators.

Petrosian, who denied the accusations, was set free two months later pending investigation. The ACC chief, Sasun Khachatrian, insisted at the time that investigators have sufficient evidence to prosecute him.

However, a prosecutor overseeing the protracted investigation cited a lack of such evidence when he decided to clear the former officer of wrongdoing earlier this month. The Office of the Prosecutor-General on Thursday declined to elaborate on the decision. Khachatrians agency also did not comment on it.

Petrosian is the first and only person indicted in connection with the ten deaths. Pashinian has repeatedly pledged to have those responsible for them identified and brought to justice.

His critics have denounced relevant criminal proceedings launched during Pashinians rule as politically motivated. Some of them have also accused the premier of inciting the 2008 clashes.

Pashinian played a major role in Ter-Petrosians 2007-2008 opposition movement. He fell out with the ex-president after being released from jail in 2011.
26 October 2023 22:40 (UTC+04:00)

By Afaq Huseynova, AZERNEWS

Representatives of Azerbaijan's civil society strongly condemned Armenia's mine terrorism against the nature, biological diversity, and animal world of the South Caucasus. According to preliminary information, more than 1.5 million mines and unexploded ordnance were found in Karabakh and East Zangazur, in the territories liberated from the occupation of the Republic of Armenia in 2020; and more lndmines are likely to exist.

Unfortunately, Azerbaijan is one of the countries most contaminated with landmines in the world. Recently, videos and photos of 2 bears (Ursus arctos) who were victims of landmines in the liberated areas have become public. It was a very disappointing moment, indeed. It was clearly observed that one of the bears fell on a mine and was crippled, and the other cub died after stepping on the mine. It should be noted with regret that the mine that caused the death of the bear cub was produced in Armenia in 2021. This means that even after the 44-day war in 2020, Armenia continued to mine the territories of Azerbaijan by abusing the Lachin road. Only in September 2023, as a result of local anti-terrorist measures carried out by the Azerbaijani Army, the mining of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia was prevented.

A few years ago, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) published a picture of 2 leopards (Panthera pardus) whose legs were crippled on the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan. In Garabagh and East Zangazur, there are also endangered species on the International Red List. This kind of cruel attitude shown by the Republic of Armenia towards animals and wild fauna is unacceptable. The rare natural pearls and animals of a biodiversity-rich region like the South Caucasus should not be subjected to such treatment. Armenia also used animals as conspirators. On September 11, 2023, the illegal armed groups of Armenia in the territory of Azerbaijan attached a remote-controlled improvised explosive device to a dog and forced it to move in the direction of the positions of the Azerbaijani Army. As a result of the vigilance of the servicemen of the Azerbaijan Army, the terrorist act was prevented.

Tavakkul Iskandarov, chairman of the Center for Biological Diversity Public Union, commented on the subject to Azernews. First of all, he referred to the UN Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Mines and other explosive devices.

"Unfortunately, although there is a convention on the use of mines and demining of territories, Armenia still does not comply with it. Today, the territory of Garabagh, once under the occupation of Armenia, is one of the most polluted areas in the world with mines. During the period of occupation, they continued to lay mines at the same time after the great victory. As a result of this incident, not only civilians but also nature and fauna species were endangered," the head of the public union said.

Tavakkul Iskandarov pointed out the death of animals in the mined area and said that he also encountered cases of animals being maimed while walking in the mined area.

"It is possible that animals maimed by landmines may die later. Because the animals after the mine are crippled, they are deprived of the opportunity to hunt their prey. As a result, we often see cases of those animals dying due to starvation. Therefore, today I am in favor of providing this information to the world community. For these actions, Armenia should be condemned in general, and the world community should be aware of it," Iskanderov stressed.

At the same time, the Chairman of the Union clarified the idea of what contribution animal rights protection organizations can make in handing over maps of exact mine areas to protect the nature of the South Caucasus from danger.

"In my opinion, there are groups and NGOs engaged in special environmental activities that should be aware of such events. Of course, they should disseminate information against these actions of Armenians within their means in various forums and even regularly cover them in the media," the head of the public union said.

The expert also said that Armenia should respond to the world community for its anti-humanist acts of eco-war and cruelty to fauna.

"I think that Armenia should be condemned by the world community not only for its acts of aggression, but also for its environmental crimes, and should answer for its harmful actions against nature. For this, the Azerbaijani side should do its best and raise issues in various institutions, as well as in courts, in order to apply certain sanctions against the Armenian side.

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Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
26 October 2023 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

As the saying goes, only fools repeat the same things over and over but expect different results. Unfortunately, not just ordinary people but also big states frequently get entrapped in this snobbism. Overestimating itself, like people, the countries think that they can succeed in a project which other much stronger and wealthier countries failed. Currently, the best example of such a snobbish country is Iran.

As is known, Russia has been supporting and even feeding Armenia over for 30 years, since the inception of its independence. Russia attached great importance to Armenia to such an extent that it constructed all its projects in the region through Armenia. Previously, these two countries were strategic allies. However, despite all signed contracts and agreements, Russia has called Armenia a suitcase with a handle and tried to get rid of it, recently.

Surely, the second superpower in the world had thought that Armenia would take advantage of Russian support to develop itself in terms of military and economy. However, like a leech sucking, Armenia sucked Russian resources but did not develop. Eventually, the ever-being hunger of the suitcase without a handle turned into a burden to Russia. Simultaneously, Russia became insufficient for the Armenian ever-growing appetite, and the country started to look for new suitors, especially from the West. The European suitor, more precisely, France has been waiting for invitations for a long, but suddenly and unexpectedly new suitor from the East, i.e. Iran emerged.

Iran, which presents itself as the protector of Islam, especially Shias, commenced threatening Muslim Shia Azerbaijan on behalf of Christian Armenia. The so-called protector of Islam started to speak about long-forgotten territorial integrity. I say long-forgotten because Iran had not said anything for over thirty years when Azerbaijan's territories were under the invasion of Armenia. Even the toothless and moribund lion of the east or, to put it more bluntly, Iran, which is almost isolated from the world and alien to the political prism of the principle of alliance, went further by stating that the territorial integrity of Armenia is its red line.

Following the political uphold, Iran started to speak about economic cooperation. To assist Hayastan, Iran constructed roads and bridges. The Persian Roads and Urban Development Minister, Mehrdad Bazrpash praised the cooperation, which actually was wasting the money of poor Iranian citizens, and even invited Armenian companies to participate in mega construction projects in Iran. The Minister pointed out that his country plans to build 4 million residential houses and he would be happy if Armenian construction companies partook in this construction boom. He impudently extolled the development of the construction sector in Armenia. However, Armenia imports roughly all construction materials from abroad. Besides, Armenia has not finished the highway starting from the Iranian border to the Georgian border for dozens of years. It seems the toothless lioness is not going to limit itself to only the wasting money in Armenia, but also aims to enrich Hay companies instead of local ones.

Obviously, Iran thinks Russia failed because they were not good at geopolitics and business. However, the reality is different. Russia is much better in geopolitics and wealthier than Iran. Russia is a cosmic country and owns a strong industry. However, it could not help Armenia. On the contrary, it mired but could save itself. Nevertheless, the toothless and moribund lion still did not leave the vixen alone.

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Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
LUDZIDZINI  The nation yesterday took charge of Sibaya.

Attendees inside the cattle byre yesterday ensured that speakers presented themselves appropriately by stating their names, chiefs, stuck to the topic at hand, spoke siSwati and also shouted bayethe at the end of their submissions. Those who strayed from this protocol were brought to order, as the attendees would shout that they should introduce themselves by asking who they were. If this was not adhered to, the members of the Peoples Parliament ensured that the speakers did not proceed with their submissions. On the receiving end of this were some members of the royal family and various speakers, who were afforded the opportunity to express themselves.

Among the members of the royal family, former Member of Parliament (MP) in the 11th Parliament, Princess Phumelele, lost most of her submission time because the public questioned who she was, after she had started making her submission before introducing herself. The princess was then informed by the Chairperson of Sibaya, Acting Ludzidzini Governor Sifiso Mafelenkhosini Khumalo, that she had to introduce herself. As she did that, the public questioned who her chief was and she responded to that question as well. While responding to the question, Princess Phumelele was further questioning the Ludzidzini acting governor if she could proceed. At some point, the former legislator was heard saying the booing was confusing her as it had disrupted her line of thought. Also, the same was experienced by former MP of the 10th Parliament Princess Ncengencenge. She was asked to introduce herself and state her chief. This was when the princess was posing a question to Mbabane East MP Welcome Dlamini. She abided to the call by the members of the Peoples Parliament.

Impatient

The nation was also impatient with presenters and or speakers who used English when articulating themselves during the submissions at Sibaya. Even the chairperson of Sibaya was not spared, because when he introduced the second segment of the discussions at the Sibaya, the public shouted that he should state in SiSwati what panellists were. However, the acting Ludzidzini governor did not heed to the call, as he continued with the business of the day. On the other hand, the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development, Nonhlanhla Dlamini, had the members of the Peoples Parliament shouting in unison, disputing her assertion that there was no money which returned from constituencies under the Regional Development Fund (RDF). The PS was elaborating on how the RDF operated and how it stood to benefit the nation.

Reverend Johannes Mazibuko of the Mbabane Alliance Church, also had the public interrupting him while he started making his presentation. This was after Mazibuko had neglected introducing himself. Thereon, he adhered to the call, which was made by the attendees. Also, another presenter who posed a question to Prince Guduza was booed for informing the attendees that she had introduced herself on Tuesday as make Mkhontfo. Another presenter who spoke of sex had the members of the Peoples Parliament calling for her removal from the podium. The presenter had introduced herself as Zakhona, after speaking briefly for a few seconds and repeating, sex twice while addressing the nation, the attendees had none of it.

Some were heard shouting that she should sit down, while others called for the microphone to be muted. In fact, even the acting Ludzidzini governor made the same call. The public continued emphasising that she had to sit down until her time lapsed. Thereon, she walked out of the cattle byre.

Dudu Dlamini from Nhlambeni also irked the members of the Peoples Parliament when she said the incoming prime minister (PM) should uproot the act of dependency with the nation. She said this should be done through inculcating into the nation the culture of being self-reliant and also catering for the elderly. Some attendees in response shouted, asking where money for such would come from as a majority of the citizenry was unemployed. Despite being booed minutes earlier, Dudu had a round of applause for submitting that His Majesty King Mswati III should also look at women for the next PM. Also, Sikhekhe Shabangu from Mbelebeleni had a round of applause for submitting that the elderly grants should be reviewed upwards, as they were not sufficient for the elderly, who did not only cater for their needs, but also had dependents such as grandchildren. Rhetorically, he asked: What can you do with E500?

Education

Another speaker appreciated for a well articulated submission was Mongi Shabangu, who said government should lead by example and pay grants for free primary education (FPE) and also the orphaned and vulnerable children (OVCs) on time. Shabangu said this was necessary because parents would mimic the administrations act, which then compromised the standard of education as head teachers were left with minimal resources to manage the schools. Furthermore, he advised that school fees should be paid at the Treasury Departments Revenue offices, as this would ensure that schools had adequate funds. Farming costs about E5 700 as that is what government wants us to have for farm inputs, which means that the impoverished cant farm. May you look into this Your Majesty, said Shabangu.

He also appealed that government should issue money due to students, workers and the elderly on time, as failure to do so resulted in constant protest actions by those affected. The next to protest, he said, would be the elderly if this was not addressed. On the other hand, despite having been booed earlier, Princess Phumelele also received a round of applause for her submission on the lack of action on those who were found to have committed corrupt acts. The former legislator said the failure by the Anti- Corruption Commission to take to task those who were found to be defrauding the State, watered down the efforts of the country to combat corruption. Also, Zanele Dlamini from Nkhaba, was accorded a round of applause for advising the King to appoint a premier who would ensure that there were few circulars improving the welfare of politicians while the citizenry languished in poverty. The politicians have left us and will return with bananas and oranges when they seek to be re-elected towards the end of their term, without doing anything because a person who has food in his or her mouth cant speak much, she said.

Furthermore, she submitted that chiefs should respect each other and extend that to their subjects while also appealing to the monarch to address the issue of chiefdom boundaries, as it was causing disharmony. Former Mtsambama Constituency MP Mlamuli Dlamini had the public applauding his submission as he appealed to the monarch not to confine himself to people with the Dlamini surname when choosing a PM. Mlamuli said if a person with the right qualities had a different clan name from Dlamini, he or she should be chosen so that they could use their skills to propel the country forward. Also, in the last lap of yesterdays business at Sibaya, Prince Guduzas presentation on the social economic development within the context of Tinkhundla was appreciated. He submitted on how the national budget should start within chiefdoms so that the needs of the people at grassroots level would be catered for.
26 October 2023 17:00 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

President Emmanuel Macron's words about the Israel-Hamas War unveil the hypocritical stance of France and augur bloodshed that could happen in the Middle East and could affect not just Palestine but also Israel, as well.

Before starting to interpret Macron's words and intentions, it should be better to mention that Israel is a country that owns a capable army that can fight simultaneously on different fronts and has perfect security services that can conduct any anti-terror operations in all corners of the world. Macron, whose country lost almost all wars in the last 100 years, including WWII, and was beaten, expelled, or cornered in the Far East and Africa, flies to the Middle East and expresses his assistance to the Israeli State, which has won roughly all wars throughout its history, in a battle with Hamas, an armed group. So, Israel is a country that can give a lesson to France on military and anti-terror operations, let alone need assistance from it.

However, forgetting the history, Macron impudently stated that his country is ready to fight against Hamas and proposed that the international coalition fighting ISIS should widen its mandate and fight against Hamas in the Gaza Strip as well. He added that "the battle (against Hamas) has to be without mercy.

Reading Macron's statement, I have no other option but to think that either he flatters or he wants to stain the reputation of Israel. Call it as you want, but the coalition that fought against ISIS is the same coalition that invaded Iraq and Afghanistan, dethroned Gaddafi in Libya, and destabilised Syria. The coalition sometimes gets bigger and sometimes shrinks, but the main countries remain the same. The coalition made a hash of all the operations it had conducted and lost its face.

In comparison, the Israeli Army stood 100 km away from Kairo and got control of all of the Sinai Peninsula in the Yum Kippur War; in 1982, Israel invaded Beirut; it bombarded Iraq; it kept Gazza under control for several years, and so on, but the results of these operations were not as disgusting as the results of operations conducted by the above-mentioned coalition.

For example, during the Iraqi War, roughly one million civilians died, and about half of the country turned into IDPs. As for Syrian destabilisation, the country, so to speak, was depopulated. Millions of people became refugees and sought shelter in different countries. In addition, Israel has never created prisons like Abu Gharib or Guantanamo. To top it all off, the economies of none of the countries that waged war with Israel collapsed, as did the economies of Libya, Syria, and Iraq. So to say, the economies of the countries where the coalition conducted operations were depleted. Terror organisations and illegal armed groups mushroomed in all places where the coalition, which Macron praised, conducted operations.

Keeping the bloody history of the coalition in mind, I hope Macron flattered Israel. Otherwise, it means that the West will stir up the region once again, which does not promise a bright future for Israel. In short, the coalition will goof up again and leave the region. Afterward, Israel will need to clean up behind them.

While speaking about the goofed-up policy of the West, especially France, we should not overlook the hypocrisy of Macron as well. According to the international media outlet, about 30 French citizens died or were injured, and several were taken as hostages during the attack by Hamas. Thereupon, he calls Hamas a terror organisation and exclaims that they will fight with Hamas relentlessly. However, the same Macron impudently accuses Azerbaijan of conducting anti-terror measures in Garabagh. According to France, Hamas is a terror organisation, but separatists in Garabagh who brutally killed over 15,000 civilians, expelled 750,000 civilians from their hometowns, and looted and planted landmines in Azerbaijani territories are 'democratic people' or even saints.

For 30 fallen French citizens, Macron calls Hamas a terror organisation but requires us to forgive and forget over 30,000 fallen lives, half of them civilians, in Garabagh. A few French citizens were taken hostages, and France vows to uproot Hamas, but the same country requires us not to investigate the fate of 4,000 Azerbaijanis who went missing by virtue of Armenians.

Given the above-mentioned, by what right does France ask for or require anything from us?

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Qabil Ashirov is AzerNews staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @g_Ashirov

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26 October 2023 10:00 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) hosted another meeting with the heads of banks operating in the country, Azernews reports.

Governor of the Central Bank Taleh Kazymov shared a post on his page on X, and noted that during the meeting, the results of the 3rd quarter of this year in the banking sector were discussed.

We also reviewed the recent impact of global trends and challenges on the financial and banking sectors. We talked about measures to ensure macroeconomic stability in the country and expand entrepreneurs access to financial resources, he wrote.

Mrkzi Bankda olkd faliyyt gostrn banklarn rhbrlri il novbti df gorusduk. Gorus zaman bank sektoru uzr cari ilin 3-cu rubunun nticlrini muzakir etdik.

Hmcinin son dovrlrd qlobal meyillrin v cagrslarn maliyy-bank sektoruna tsirini nzrdn kecirdik. pic.twitter.com/IeJDdZmIB9  Taleh Kazimov (@TalehKazimov_T) October 26, 2023

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26 October 2023 15:22 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

"Azerbaijan and Georgia make an important contribution to the energy security of Europe," says Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov during his speech at the IV International Silk Road Forum in Tbilisi, Azernews reports.

"Azerbaijan and Georgia make an important contribution to Europe's energy security. Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum gas, as well as the Southern Gas Corridor, realized with the joint participation of our countries, are considered strategic projects from this point of view," the Minister said.

According to the Minister, the Southern Gas Corridor is allowed to directly transport Azerbaijani gas to Europe. Last July, Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a Memorandum of Understanding, according to which natural gas supplies from Azerbaijan will be doubled by 2027.

"Today we are starting to build an environmentally friendly energy bridge to Europe together. In this regard, a Strategic Partnership Agreement between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary was signed in Bucharest last December. Bulgaria has already expressed its intention to join the project. We hope that this project will make an additional contribution to the energy security of many European countries," the Prime Minister emphasized.

The Prime Minister also said that Azerbaijan has very good economic and trade relations with the countries in the region and addressed the Armenian Prime Minister.

"I would like to tell Nikol Pashinyan that Azerbaijan expressed its position regarding the signing of the peace agreement right after the Second Garabagh War.

"According to the statement signed on November 10, 2020, Azerbaijan has been working for a long time towards opening communications and has expressed its position. We want communications to be open, but it does not depend on us alone. If the other side wants it, we are ready for it. In other cases, we have enough opportunities," Prime Minister Ali Asadov said.

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26 October 2023 18:07 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

Within the framework of the Silk Road Forum held in Tbilisi on October 26, Azerbaijan Railways JSC, Kazakhstan Railways JSC, and Georgian Railway JSC signed an agreement on the establishment of a joint venture on a parity basis, Azernews reports, citing Azerbaijan Railroads (ADY).

Railroaders of the three countries have joined their efforts to develop multimodal transportation on the Trans-Caspian international transport route.

LLC "Middle Corridor Multimodal" A new company called "International Financial Center Astana" is being established.

Within the framework of joint activity, the company will provide services on the principle of "one window", guarantee cargo delivery terms, and realize of coordinated policy on the development of multimodal service in the direction of China, Europe / Turkiye, China.

The Silk Road Forum was founded by Georgia's Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili in 2015. This year's forum was attended by over 2,000 participants from more than 60 countries. The forum focused on topics such as the new architecture of the East-West Trade, the increasing role of the Middle Corridor, digital connectivity, diversification in the energy sector, tourism sustainability, and diversified investments for a resilient future.

The joint venture agreement is an important step in the development of the Silk Road Forum and the region as a whole. The agreement will help to create a more efficient and resilient transport infrastructure, which will in turn lead to increased economic growth and development in the region.

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26 October 2023 13:14 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

The Rashid Behbudov Song Theater has hosted an event themed "Azerbaijani-American Cultural Bridge: Jeffrey Werbock".

The event was organized on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, with the support of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, Azernews reports.

A minute of silence was held to honor the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Moderated by the jury chairman of the National Mugham Competition Givami Rahimli, the event brought together ADA University representatives, the Azerbaijani Diaspora, famous public figures, and media representatives.

In his speech, Givami Rahimli, the rector of the National Conservatory, and People's Artist Siyavush Karimi hailed the long-term friendship of Jeffrey Werbock with Azerbaijan.

He underlined that Jeffrey Werbock successfully promotes Azerbaijani culture and music worldwide.

Jeffrey Werbock is known as a skilled player of Azerbaijani national musical instruments.

He has been passionate about Azerbaijani music since 1971 and has devoted his life to the promotion of Azerbaijani mugham.

Over the past years, he has given hundreds of concerts and lecture demonstrations at museums, colleges, universities, and community concert venues in the United States, Europe, Israel, and Azerbaijan.

In his speech, chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora Fuad Muradov stressed that Jeffrey Werbock has been tirelessly doing a lot of work to popularize Azerbaijani culture in many countries.

He noted that more than 300 events were organized this year to mark the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

Fuad Muradov emphasized that Heydar Aliyev always paid special attention to the Diaspora and supported its activities.

The chairman of the committee also touched upon the special programs and projects implemented both for the new generation of Diaspora living abroad and for well-known figures based on presidential instructions.

As a result, more than 80 Saturday and Sunday schools have been established for children to learn the Azerbaijani language.

He noted that Azerbaijani houses operate in more than 20 countries. Ten more Azerbaijani houses are expected to open next year.

Vice-Rector of ADA University Fariz Ismayilzade said that Jeffrey Werbock actively promotes the Azerbaijani culture in the U.S. and does a lot of work in this direction.

Then a video was shown of Jeffrey Werbock's meeting with National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

Fragments of the ethnographic documentary film "Young Voices, Ancient Song", dedicated to the American musician, were also shown.

The artistic part featured a concert program with the participation of Jeffrey Werbock, Anar Imanov, and Askar Askarzade.

---

Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @lmntypewriterrr

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26 October 2023 12:10 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

"Our only goal is to ensure the peaceful return of Azerbaijanis to their ancestral homes in Armenia," These views were included in the statement of the Western Azerbaijani community on this occasion, Azernews reports.

Armenia's reaction to the meeting of the Western Azerbaijan Community with the Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Dunja Mijatovic, to the OSCE Human Dimension Conference held these days in Warsaw, and to the participation of the OSCE Commissioner on National Minorities in the Hague once again shows the ethnic hatred towards Azerbaijanis in the policy of this state. With this, Armenia has also demonstrated its intolerance for freedom of speech and civil society activities.

The statement also emphasizes that the Armenian government claims that the Community is making territorial claims against it in order to avoid dialogue.

The Western Azerbaijan Community reiterates that it has no claims to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Armenia, and its only goal is to ensure the peaceful return of Azerbaijanis to their ancestral homes in Armenia.

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26 October 2023 10:40 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

The return of former IDPs to their native lands continues in accordance with the order of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Azernews reports.

On October 26, another group of IDPs, made up of 17 families or 95 people, left the Masazir village of the Absheron district for the rebuilt Agali village of the Zangilan district. The IDPs, who temporarily settled in the cities of Baku, Sumgayit, and other residential areas in the Absheron district previously, will start living in their homeland. They are residents of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Agali villages, which were completely destroyed by the Armenians during the occupation.

The residents of Agali thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care and expressed gratitude to the valiant Azerbaijani army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

The distribution of houses was carried out by drawing lots which is the currently valid rule for providing new residential areas to internally displaced persons, based on the principles of transparency and fairness. The ceremony of drawing lots was held on October 20 in the Repatriation Department of the State Committee.

The departure ceremony was attended by representatives of the Azerbaijani State Committee for Refugees and IDPs, the special representative of the Azerbaijani President in Jabrayil, Gubadli and Zangilan districts, Zangilan District Executive Power, and other officials.

Thus, the number of families permanently settled in Agali village will reach 150 families or 744 people. Resettlement will continue.

---

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26 October 2023 13:30 (UTC+04:00)

An official inauguration of the 230 MW Garadagh Solar PV Plant has been held.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the ceremony.

The head of state addressed the event.

The ceremony first featured the screening of a video highlighting the work done in the Garadagh Solar PV Plant.

On 6 April 2021, the Investment, Power Purchase and Transmission Connection agreements were signed between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, Azerenergy OJSC and Masdar company of the United Arab Emirates. A groundbreaking ceremony for the plant was held in the Gulustan Palace on 15 March 2022 with the participation of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.

The Garadagh Solar PV Plant is the largest solar power plant in the Caspian region and the CIS. The plant was built at the expense of foreign investment worth $262 million.

Speech by President Ilham Aliyev

- Dear ministers.

Dear guests.

Ladies and gentlemen.

Last March we were participating in the groundbreaking ceremony of the solar power plant. The video that was just shown demonstrates the historical moment in our history. Because that was a start, I am sure, of a big journey of our two brotherly countries. Today, we are very proud to see that in a relatively short period of time, something more than a year and a half, this empty part of Absheron Peninsula became the source of green energy. This is a remarkable achievement. I'd like to congratulate Masdar, its leadership for this outstanding contribution to the development of Azerbaijan and also to commitment to our country with respect to the green transition.

Today, among our guests, we are proud to see four ministers of the UAE government, and also a big delegation from brotherly country. This is a good example of our partnership and friendship and also it demonstrates that both countries pay big importance to today`s ceremony. First, because as it was already shown, it's the largest in the region and second, because it is, as I already said, only the beginning.

We have big plans and I'm sure that friendly and brotherly relations between UAE and Azerbaijan will continue to develop successfully. I'm sure that there'll be more projects. Later today we will be actually witnessing the signing ceremony of three investment agreements, which will lead to the production of one gigawatt of renewables in a very short period of time. So, we consider today's event as a bright example of brotherly relations between UAE and Azerbaijan.

I would like to express gratitude to our dear guests for being with us today. Id like to express special gratitude to Masdar, the company which trusted Azerbaijan, decided to start large-scale investments in renewables and will make it possible for Azerbaijan to achieve its goals with respect to green agenda. Today's project is the first among many to come.

As I said, three investment agreements will be signed today, but our plans are much broader. We plan to work together to produce in phases up to 10 gigawatts of renewables and that will be a total revolution in the energy development of the region, because Azerbaijan is a country where the first oil in the world was produced in the middle of 19th century. The first oil from offshore fields was produced in the middle of the last century. And now, having in mind that still we are rich in fossil fuel resources, we are moving towards green agenda. This is a deliberate choice. This is our contribution not only to the future development of Azerbaijan, but to the issues related to the climate change.

So, I'm very hopeful and absolutely sure that all our plans will be implemented. Today's ceremony actually demonstrates that. And also I hope that today's ceremony will be a good example and will send a good signal to many more companies from UAE to come to work with us. I know that recently, our national oil companies, energy companies ADNOC and SOCAR already became officially partners in Azerbaijan. I know that there are plans to work together in UAE and in other countries. So, we see now that the development of cooperation between our countries, governmental structures and companies is really elevating at the new stage.

Azerbaijan is a very friendly country for foreign investments. We enjoyed multibillion investment portfolio during last three decades. Total investments in Azerbaijan were more than 300 billion US dollars and almost 200 billion US dollars investments in the non-oil sector. This is our economic target now to continue to diversify our economy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. But at the same time, we understand that our oil and gas for many more years will be needed for the international market. For that purpose, multiple pipeline oil and gas pipeline systems have been commissioned, and now we export our oil and gas in different directions. Azerbaijan is the exporter of oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, electricity to international markets.

Of course, in the coming years we will export hydrogen, including green hydrogen. For that purpose, we are working very closely with our partners, companies from different countries of the world in order to create this potential.

With respect to investment climate of Azerbaijan, I already mentioned, Azerbaijan`s economy is very stable. During the last 20 years, our GDP grew more than four times. We managed to reduce our direct foreign debt to the level below 10% of GDP and reduce level of poverty, which was close to 50% 20 years ago, down to 5.5%.

So, it demonstrates that the fair distribution of the revenues coming from oil and gas exports create absolutely new reality. In the coming years, we are planning to implement the state program, which provides reinforcement of our national energy grid in a short period of time. This is absolutely necessary. Because I mentioned only projects, which we are planning to implement with Masdar. There are many other investment proposals and some of them are already in the face of implementation.

So, we will definitely need to reinforce our national energy grid and as I said, the state program is being implemented. We will do everything on time. We already allocated financial resources so that our investors, which produce renewable source of energy, feel themselves absolutely comfortable.

At the same time, I'd like to inform you that our renewable energy agenda is not limited only with solar or wind power stations. We are actively developing now our hydro energy potential in the liberated three years ago territories of Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur. We already commissioned hydropower stations of the capacity of 170 megawatts, and by the end of next year, it will be already 270 megawatts and within two-three years, it will be 500 megawatts of hydropower station, which will be another important contribution to the green energy transition.

And in general, Karabakh, Eastern Zangazur and Nakhchivan are being already announced the green energy zone. There is a big potential to use our natural resources, which apparently the wind became. Because wind has always been a source of some problems, especially when landing. But now wind is a natural resource.

So, it was maybe difficult to imagine some 10-20 years ago. But now, it is the case and especially wind in the Caspian is much more stronger, but even wind today here demonstrates that this potential is here.

So, these are the plans for the future. Of course, these investments will allow us to save a lot of natural gas, which we use now to produce electricity. And it's several billion cubic meters of natural gas, which will be saved for export. Because the Azerbaijani gas is needed more than ever before in Europe due to recent geopolitical changes.

We have commissioned major transportation infrastructure on time, 3,500 kilometers gas pipeline from Caspian offshore fields to Europe. And that will be another contribution to energy security of the broader region.

Of course, among our plans is to work actively with our partners to create energy corridor, Caspian-EU energy corridor. Last December, a corresponding agreement was signed. We have already started our activity, the steering committee already gathered couple of times. In several months, we will have a full feasibility study of the new energy security project  Green Energy Corridor, integrated transmission production and consumption facilities, including the electric cable under the Black Sea. At this moment, the feasibility study is being prepared for 4 gigawatts of renewables.

So, these are our plans, and our history of independence demonstrates that all our plans come true not only in the energy area, but also in all fields. Because we have political will, we have unity in our society. We have great partners and friends like UAE, and companies from UAE.

So, I'm sure that we will achieve all our goals, and we'll have many more ceremonies like that in the future. Once again, I'd like to express gratitude to our guests for being with us, and congratulate all of us on this remarkable event.

Thank you very much.

x x x

Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber addressed the ceremony.

Then, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber launched the Garadagh Solar PV Plant.

Made by Masdar company, the commemorative medal dedicated to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was presented to President Ilham Aliyev.

They posed together for a group photo.

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26 October 2023 14:11 (UTC+04:00)

Abbas Ganbay Read more

"We agree to the laying of international lines of communication. Because the road to peace passes through the agenda of peace-related work," this was stated by Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan during his speech at the IV Silk Road International Forum held in Tbilisi, Azernews reports.

According to him, Armenia is interested in opening all transportation and communications.

"The main thing is that the construction of transportation and communications should be carried out in peaceful conditions, within the sovereignty of the countries. Each country ensures the safety of transportation and people at customs and border crossing points through its state institutions.

An institution will be established in Armenia that will create conditions for the security of people and goods. All countries should use each other's infrastructure based on the principles of reciprocity and equality".

The Prime Minister added that Azerbaijan and Armenia mutually recognized each other's territorial integrity: the territory of Armenia is 29.8K km2, and the territory of Azerbaijan is 86.6K km2.

According to the Minister, Azerbaijan and Armenia were among the 12 countries that signed the Almaty Declaration, and by signing this declaration, Azerbaijan and Armenia recognized the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and inviolability of the existing borders and administrative boundaries of each other.

Pashinyan noted that after the signing of the declaration, the administrative borders between the republics of the Soviet Union became state borders.

"We hope that on the basis of these principles, we will sign agreements on peace and the restoration of relations with Azerbaijan in the coming months," Pashinyan said.

Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, speaking at the opening ceremony of the Tbilisi International Silk Road Forum, fully respects Azerbaijan's territorial integrity in the map of regional transportation corridors he presented.

The map presented by him shows the territories of Azerbaijan in full and without using any names, maps, or toponyms belonging to the former so-called entity.

The Prime Minister provided information about railroads passing through the north and south of Armenia with the map.

The map also shows the possibility of restoring the railroad and roads with Azerbaijan through the Zangazur corridor, which would further reduce the transportation connection between the Caspian and Mediterranean Seas.

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26 October 2023 08:00 (UTC+04:00)

Russia on Tuesday said the 3+3 format meeting on South Caucasus the previous day in Tehran was in-depth and productive, and there is a "serious potential" of promoting interaction between the participating countries, Azernews reports, citing Yeni Safak.

An in-depth and productive discussion took place regarding the prospects for the development of cooperation between the countries of the region, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Russia was represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in the meeting also attended by the top diplomats of Turkiye, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Armenia.

Georgia did not participate in the dialogue due to the Russian factor. The two countries suspended diplomatic ties following a war in 2008.

The ministry statement said the session noted serious potential of promoting multifaceted interaction in the trade and economic, transport and logistics, and cultural and humanitarian spheres.

It said a joint communique was adopted by the participating countries, and Lavrov also held brief talks with his Turkish, Azerbaijani, Iranian, and Armenian counterparts.

Lavrov also met Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and discussed further building up of Russian-Iranian partnership in accordance with the agreements signed between Raisi and President Vladimir Putin.

Particular attention was paid to the implementation of joint projects in the field of energy and logistics, including the full launch of the International NorthSouth Transport Corridor," the press release said.

The Iranian side also expressed gratitude for Russias role in ensuring Iran's full membership in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS.

Both sides, according to the statement, noted the need for further bilateral coordination on regional issues, including the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, the situation in Afghanistan, Syria, as well as issues related to the Caspian Sea.

The firm position of the two states on rejecting the Wests practice of applying illegal unilateral sanctions that undermine the normal functioning of the world economy was emphasized, the statement said.

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Government is on track to ensure that the first drop of oil is produced by the end of 2025, Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, has told Parliament.

Government and its partners are working tirelessly and I am happy to report that we are on track to have first oil by the end of 2025, Nankabirwa said, while presenting a statement on the status of oil and gas projects in the country, to Parliament on October 25.

According to Nankabirwa, government has already drilled a total of 11 oil wells; eight in the Tilenga and three in the Kingfisher area, with capacity to produce up to 190,000 barrels and 40,000 barrels of oil per day respectively. In total, the production will require a total of 457 wells and 35 well pads.

The development and production wells at the Kingfisher field in Kikuube district was launched in January 2023 by President Yoweri Museveni, while those at the Tilenga Project located in the Albertine Graben within the Buliisa and Nwoya districts commenced in June 2023.

Construction of the Central Processing facilities both at Kingfisher and Tilenga is ongoing and on schedule to be ready by 2025. Tilenga's capacity Central Processing facility which is under construction is currently 33 percent complete while Kingfisher's capacity Central Processing facility is at 12 percent, Nankabirwa said.

As far as oil exploration is concerned, Nankabirwa said that the Ministry is increasing its resource base by giving more licences to companies.

We issued exploration licences to Armour Energy over the Kanyawataba area, Oranto Petroleum over the Ngassa Shallow and deep in 2017, and more recently to UNOC over the Kasurubani block and DGR Global over the Turaco block, she said.

She added that the Ministry also plans to conclude the formulation of a comprehensive National Petroleum Policy before the end of this Financial Year.

The new policy will create a conducive environment for faster and efficient exploration, development, production, and commercialisation of discovered resources and utilisation of petroleum products in the country while acknowledging the energy transition initiatives, she said, adding that government also has its hands on the deck on the development of 60,000 barrels per day oil refinery in Kabaale, Hoima district.

On the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), Nankabirwa said civil works commenced in August 2023, and the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) for affected persons within the 10 districts where the EACOP crosses is ongoing.

Napak District Woman Representative, Hon. Faith Nakut sought assurance from the minister that the first oil will be realised by the end of 2025 considering the slow progress of oil well constructions.

We are required to have 457 wells versus the accomplished 11 wellsThe minister should give us assurance because, in my view, that speed is slow, Nakut said.

Christine Apolot (NRM, Kumi District) also called for consistency in the oil production timelines.

Originally, about 2 years back, the year Ugandans were given for the first production of oil was 2023. So I want to plead with the minister to be consistent with these messages because the population is not going to believe us, Apolot said.

Nankabirwa said that the construction of oil wells started this year and by 2025, the number of wells will have been realised.

The minister also blamed the deadline shifts to Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) and Civil Society Organisations that have been de-campaigning the EACOP project.--OGN/ TradeArabia News Service
26 October 2023 23:50 (UTC+04:00)

Uzbekenergotamir JSC has reached agreements with several Chinese companies aimed at energy development, which includes expanding and updating power grids, as well as creating and launching new power generation capacities, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.

The modernization of energy transportation systems will be carried out jointly with China Electric Power Equipment and Technology, a subsidiary of the State Grid Corporation of China. The parties intend to build new substations and power lines supporting digital technologies in a number of regions.
26 October 2023 23:20 (UTC+04:00)

The driving force of any integration is the creation of favorable conditions for mutually beneficial economic cooperation, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan Akylbek Japarov said at a meeting of Heads of Government of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in an expanded format, Azernews reports, citing 24.kg News Agency.

The head of the Cabinet of Ministers summed up the results of Kyrgyzstans chairmanship of the CIS and told about promising cooperation projects. Akylbek Japarov believes that it is important to expand international roads and railways, logistics centers and transport terminals, as well as modernize the infrastructure for uninterrupted international transit.

A lot needs to be done in the region in the field of digitalization of trade and customs procedures. It is important that all these transformations are synchronized with world standards, Akylbek Japarov stressed.

He also spoke about the use of water and energy resources by countries in the region.

Considering that almost half of the regions water resources are formed on the territory of our country, we understand our high responsibility in the matter of water supply. Taking into account the negative climatic impact on the area where water resources are formed, as well as the deterioration of the water infrastructure of the countries of the region, we advocate for the continued adoption of timely measures and the implementation of relevant projects in the field of irrigation, energy and infrastructure aimed at the efficient use of water and land resources, ensuring cheap and environmentally friendly clean electricity, and adaptation to climate change. Therefore, Kyrgyzstan proposes and promotes the creation of a mutually beneficial compensation mechanism for the integrated use of water and energy resources in Central Asia, he said.

Akylbek Japarov called on the CIS countries to increase cooperation in the field of technical regulation and standardization, which will create additional favorable conditions.

To implement the free trade zone agreement, the Interstate Council for Standardization, Metrology and Certification, together with the CIS Executive Committee, has developed a draft agreement on technical barriers in mutual trade of the CIS member states, but the document has been at the approval stage for several years. I consider it advisable to finalize it as soon as possible and submit it for signing, the head of the Cabinet concluded.

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Washington, Oct 26 (UNI) US President Joe Biden has been briefed on what is known so far about the mass shooting that reportedly left at least 22 people dead in Lewiston, Maine, the White House said in a statement.

"The President has been briefed on whats known so far about the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine and will continue to receive updates," said the White House in a Statement.

At least 22 people were shot dead at three locations across the city, Fox news reported.

UNI/SPUTNIK AKS
Mussel Harvesting Returns to All of Oregon Coast

Published 10/21/23 at 5:22 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff





(Oregon Coast)  Last month, a large area of the south Oregon coast was closed to the harvesting of mussels because of a paralytic shell toxin, one that is tougher than the usual domoic acid. However, this week, testing for the biotoxin called paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) came up above the safe threshold for the second time, allowing Oregon officials to reopen harvesting.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) made the announcement Friday, saying it and the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) have reopened the area from Bandon to the California border.

PSP is much more difficult on humans if ingested, ODFW said last month. It is capable of affecting humans within hours of digestion. ODFW said it can cause numbness, disorientation, paralysis and death. The toxin can be found in mussels, bay clams, scallops and oysters, as well as razor clams.

The area from Bandon northward into the north and central Oregon coast had not tested high for the toxin and was fine for mussel harvesting.

PSP poisoning is a byproduct of a group of dinoflagellates which produce saxitoxins which affect the nervous system, ODFW said in September.

Freezing or cooking the mussels will have no effect on levels of PSP.

Harvesting of razor clams recently reopened on some key parts of the coastline, especially Clatsop Beach  from Seaside to the Washington border. This leaves most of the Oregon coast open to razor clamming, except for the region of Seal Rock to Tillamook Head at Cannon Beach. This area contains razor clams still too high in domoic acid, another biotoxin that can harm humans.

The region from Seal Rock to Brookings is open, meaning much of the central coast and all of the south coast.

Bay clamming is open along the entire coastline. Crabbing is open in all bays around the coastline, but ocean crabbing is not due to biotoxins and the annual closure until November 30. Shellfish managers continue to test the region every two weeks. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit.

For more information call ODA's shellfish biotoxin hotline at (800) 448-2474, the ODA Food Safety Program at (503) 986-4720 or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage.

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Photo courtesy Seaside Aquarium: mussel getting eaten by a sea star











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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.

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Concessions at Devil's Churn Vacant Soon, Oregon Coast Officials Look for a Vendor

Published 10/24/23 at 6:28 a.m.

By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff

(Yachats, Oregon)  Ever wanted to run a concession stand at a monster Oregon coast landmark?

The Siuslaw National Forest (SNF) is reaching out to the business world with a concession opportunity at the Devil's Churn Day Use Area near Yachats. Near the information booth window, there is space for a food vendor which will soon be vacant. (Photo courtesy SNF)

The agency said the application period begins in early 2024.

Devil's Churn is an extremely popular Oregon coast attraction, bringing in visitors year-round. It's a few miles south of Yachats on U.S. Highway 101, below Cape Perpetua, with the only parking in the area right around the concession booth.

Siuslaw National Forest Recreation Program Manager Trevor Robinson said it is an excellent opportunity for any business that is interested in being a part of Oregon coast recreation and serving the public there.

We encourage those who are interested to participate in the upcoming site tour, ask questions, and gather information ahead of the prospectus publication, he said.

The SNF plans a site tour of the facility in early February of 2024. You can sign up for that tour, or submit questions, comments or concerns by contacting the SNF's Reba Ortiz at reba.ortiz@usda.gov. Reservations for the site tour must be made before Jan. 31, 2024.

More On the Churn and Surrounding Area





It's an area that hosts a nearly endless supply of tidepools (if the tide isn't too high), the Heceta Head Lighthouse, a few spouting horns, a variety of weird sea caves, more starfish than people, the crazed wave action of the Devil's Churn and the monumental Cape Perpetua towering over it. All of these spots are a quick walk to their respective parking lots, should the weather turn on you.

The winding, twisting roads in this part of Lane and Lincoln counties also make for a beautiful scenic ride, perfect for those who want to check out these beaches at a brisk pace in the warmth of their car.

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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.

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With students going deep in debt in pursuit of a bachelor's degree, it's time to seriously consider a strategy that has the potential to accelerate learning and decrease costs. Competency-based education could replace the traditional Carnegie unit, which was developed in 1906, with students' demonstrated mastery of required subjects.Although seat-time is easy to calculate, it flies in the face of the principle of individual differences. Why can't students who bring to the classroom the knowledge and skills they acquired elsewhere be given credit towards a bachelor's degree? Even the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching, which developed the system, wants to consign it to history.To understand why, it's necessary to rewind the tape to 1905, when Andrew Carnegie donated $10 million to create a pension fund for educators in colleges, universities, and technical schools. At that time, there were no standards to define education. As a result, the following year, the foundation created the Carnegie unit, which measures the amount of time a student studies a subject with a teacher. The foundation would back teacher pensions for any post-secondary institution that followed a 120-hour credit standard. If colleges wanted the foundation's money, they had to follow its rules. And they did in droves.Fast forward to 2005, when Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings launched the Commission on the Future of Higher Education. Its purpose was to report evidence ofrather than just seat-time. It was clear by then that the information economy had made the Carnegie unit an anachronism. But it took Academically Adrift by Richard Arum and Josipa Roksa in 2011 to confirm that view. They found little or no meaningful improvement in skills like student writing and reasoning after four years. In other words, how long students had been taught was no assurance of what they could do.Does that mean that college is a waste of time and money? No, but it does mean that a different method is needed to assess the value of a bachelor's degree. In the final analysis, the contacts made as an undergraduate alone can make the four years worthwhile for some. It's one reason why the Ivies and other elite institutions continue to be coveted. It's highly doubtful that these schools are intrinsically superior, but they possess the cachet to attract students. One student said it best:The supreme irony in all this is that Andrew Carnegie had a low opinion of college. In his era, very few of those commanding industries had wasted their time in what he considered merely lollygagging on campus. In The Empire of Business, he wrote thatThings haven't changed-witness what Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg have achieved without a degree-and Carnegie's words remain highly relevant. The knowledge gained by students on campus too often isRecognizing that possession of valuable knowledge and skills can be acquired outside the classroom, almost all states have adopted competency-based education on the high-school level. In this regard, high schools are far more advanced than colleges, which still depend overwhelmingly on seat-time. The truth is that student-centered learning means nothing if it does not take into account the different interests and needs of students, as well as the prior learning that has equipped them to succeed in the American economy.If the Carnegie unit were abolished, what would the undergraduate curriculum look like? For one thing, it would be highly flexible by allowing students to demonstrate their wherewithal any time during the course of the school year. Rather than sitting through a full semester, consisting of lectures, labs, and term papers, they could request permission to prove their mastery of the material. It would be akin to an audition before a single professor or panel. Students who passed muster would then automatically receive full credit toward graduation. This approach could save students thousands of dollars in tuition and books. Furthermore, it would be an incentive for non-traditional students to apply for admission, knowing that they could tailor their educations to meet their unique needs and interests. Yes, some rethinking would have to be done of how and when students pay, but logistical problems like that could be solved with enough time and effort.Accelerated learning means less time and money spent on a degree. With the cost of tuition and books showing no sign of abating, that's no small consideration. If college and university presidents genuinely believe in the importance of student-centered learning, it behooves them to support this change. Purdue University-Global, the University of Massachusetts-Global, the University of Louisville, and the University of Wisconsin are the most prominent to date to have done so, but more are certain to follow. There will always be a demand for the traditional route to a bachelor's degree. But with a degree remaining significant for hiring and promotion, pressure will build to reward real-world experience.Purists will oppose such a change, arguing that accelerated learning debases standards. But why subject students to material they already have mastered? The economy needs their wherewithal. Forcing them to jump through a series of hoops is a waste of time and money. The transition will clearly require a shift in school culture and pedagogy, which is why learning today is increasingly seen as a partnership between professors, students, and parents. Nevertheless, tradition dies hard in education.If higher education does not adapt, many colleges will cease to exist. Already, many dozens of private colleges have failed to meet the Department of Education's financial responsibility standards. Even Harvard, with its formidable endowment, has outstanding debt of $5 billion, while Dartmouth lost its triple-A bond rating at one point. From a training ground for gentlemen clergy, higher education in America has become a huge industry that is an indispensable part of the national economy. It's time to bring it into the 21st century.
26 days after the October 7th Terror attacks on Israel, where over 1400 Jewish men, women and children were gruesomely murdered, and hundreds more made hostage: Should the Biden /Harris administration finally state that the administration's primary Middle East negotiating partner, Iran, is behind the funding and strategy of the aggressors, the Hamas Terrorists, or continue to take the more moderate position of "Don't," which is clearly not working?

100% Yes, name Iran as the funding /strategy culprit, and begin to enforce the President Trump era sanctions to END Iran's ability to prosecute this war against Israel and the United States.0% No, Iran is a valuable partner in the motives of the Biden / Harris administration, and must not be named as the culprit and our enemy.0% I have larger concerns just to survive in this economy.
As Macron's globalist party took a shellacking in the recent Senate elections in France and polls show populist right leader Marine LePenn would beat Macron for president if the election were held today, the Macron regime seems to finally be suggesting something serious to tackle illegal immigration. His government plans to step up deportations.

France's Interior Minister has announced a plan to step up deportations of dangerous illegal aliens, those who have committed crimes or been connected to jihadist and other terrorist organizations, back to their home countries. To get around the European Court of Human Rights habit of blocking deportations for frivolous reasons, France will move quickly on the deportations and get them out of France before the court can act. If necessary, France will then just pay the fines imposed which are about 3,000 euros per person.

Polls show the French people are pissed over the illegal immigration invasion of their country, and the Macron regime is at least finally doing something.

https://europeanconservative.com/articles/news/france-could-bypass-human-rights-court-on-deportations/
If the globalists and climate alarmists have their way, meat will be off our menus, replaced by bugs and worms. Bloomberg media is the latest globalist media outlet to extol the virtues of human consumption of insects and worms instead of meat. It is all part of the manufactured climate scare, a movement joined at the hip with globalism.

https://www.zerohedge.com/commodities/bloomberg-pushes-climate-doom-reason-why-you-must-eat-bugs

Globalist oriented national governments are already part of this climate alarmist drumbeat. For example, globalist dominated governments in Ireland and the Netherlands are going after dairy herds of cows as well as beef production. Both are proposing to slaughter many thousands of dairy cows. Those cows not only produce milk, but are also the basis for two of those countries most famous farm products, Irish butter and Dutch cheeses.

As past president and prime minister of the Czech Republic, Dr. Vaclav Klaus has observed, climate alarmism is "a budding totalitarin ideology that is the greatest threat to freedom, democracy, and prosperity in the world today."

One of the best sources debunking the climate scare is the British TV documentary "The Great Global Warming Swingle" which was broadcast nationally on the UK's Channel 4 and can be watched in full below:
It has been said that insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. By that definition, the Beaufort County Schools is operated insanely.

I have not written about the Beaufort County School Board for several years, believing that, somehow, things would get better. But things in our school system are worse and getting worse. There are several issues that are important to the public. Among these are; a high level of secrecy about Board operations and school activities, student discipline, very low evaluation grades of several schools, corrupt practices involving board members and commissioners, and failure operate school business with transparency. For example, failure to video of Board meetings for presentation on television, etc.

Then the board is noted for the arrogance of sending the public/press out into the hall in the middle of a public meeting ostensibly to protect privacy rights of employment discussions and decisions rather

than dealing with personnel issues at the end of the public meeting. But it works effectively. Most of the public and even the press leave when they are sent out in the hall while the board huddles behind closed doors. Why do they do such things? It would appear that the reason they do so is because the business that is conducted after they return to public session is not witnessed by those who refuse to stand outside and wait so as to see the entire public meeting. So by putting the closed-door part of the meeting in the middle they get to hide whatever they do after the doors are re-opened. Perhaps there is a rational reason for doing this, but to my knowledge that reason has never been explained. Thus, I and many others believe the real reason is to send a message to the public that the Superintendent and Board do not want the public meaningfully involved in school business. Ever wonder why this is?

For about two years the Beaufort County Better Government Committee and the Conservative Clubs Curriculum Committee has requested that the School Board return to the practice of videoing meetings for television. The School Board has refused to film meetings, giving lame excuses like, technical difficulties and the inability to procure equipment. No other Boards who film meetings have these problems. To give these excuses for almost two years is just another indication of insanity. This Board does not want the public to know how they conduct the publics business. Further proof is the way they severely restrict the right of the public to address the Board in the Public Comments section of the agenda. Regardless of the reason, the effect of this practice is to communicate to the public that they should just mind their own business and leave the operation of our schools to the staff and school board.

Yet another example that exposes this superintendent and boards lack of transparency is the failure to insure an adequate sound system so those in attendance and watching when they do record the meetings can hear what is being said. Considering how much money they have spent outside the classroom in recent

years, they could have bought a state of the art sound system if they wanted the public to know what is going on.

During the joint meeting between the School Board and the County Commissioners on October 18 the Board admitted there are school discipline problems in our schools but cited laws that restrict them from discussing certaom issues or individual examples. At the October 18 meeting the Board failed miserably to present any enlightenment about how their discipline system works. There are complaints about criminal behavior, gangs and students who are not adequately controlled. There was no discussion about the impact that the lack of discipline has on students who do behave and want to learn or on teachers who are constantly expressing to me that they have left the system do to pervasive misbehavior of students. It seemed to me that the School Board is more interested in covering up discipline incidents than in presenting a program to encourage parents and the public in how to support acceptable school discipline.

Without fundamental systemic changes the problem gets worse. Surprise, surprise.

Commissioner Deatherage made a plea to the School Board for the aggressive management of discipline with more cooperation between the School Board and the County Commissioners. Commissioner Deatherage offered that increasing the budget to cover the legal expenses of the School Board to counter the legal blocks to good discipline could help with the problem. As far as I can see, offers for Commissioners to work with the School Board fell on deaf ears.

If there are laws currently on the books that hinder effective student conduct, then I am quite sure our legislators would be more than happy to entertain introducing needed solutions in the Legislature if the School Board and County Commission make proposals that would untie their hands.

Then there is the dismal failure of Beaufort County Schools (taken as a whole) when judged by the State Department of Education rating system. Bear in mind, while reading this, that the State has lowered evaluation standards regularly, during the past 30 years. This is because of the State-wide lowering of academic standards. By lowering standards, many school systems appear to be teaching at acceptable levels, but they actually are not. This system of lowering standards protects weak teachers, superintendents and school boards. Surprise, surprise.

Beaufort County has 7 out of 12 schools that scored as low as 42 out of 100 points and got a D rating (the lowest passing grade) on the States school evaluation system. This is another indicator of the insanity of what is going on in Beaufort County. We have one school, Early College, that is rated A with a grade of 95. That is a spread of 43 points to between the lowest performing to the top performing school. One must ask, What are the other 7 schools doing wrong? Chocowinity Primary School has a grade of B, Northside High School and Bath Elementary School have grades of C. No explanation was given about programs to improve ratings other than they are working on it and Covid must have done it. Excuses rather like: the dog ate my homework. And remember, this low performance was going on before Covid.

The way our school superintendents, staff and school board have used performance statistics is insane. They typically try to spin slight increases as indicators of improvement. Yet no school board member to my knowledge has every asked: at that rate of improvement how many more generations of students will suffer unacceptable performance before we achieve an acceptable level of composite performance? Just one more example of insanity in our school system. No wonder they focus more on hiding the poor performance from the public than on fixing it.

This unacceptably high proportion of very low performing schools indicates imbedded systemic problems in the culture of education in Beaufort County Schools. When was the last time you heard a school board member defend this culture using words like excellence, high quality or the assertion that our schools compare well against the best schools in the state or nation? When was the last time you heard a superintendent talk about the National Assessment of Education Progress? Do these problems come from the top or are they latent in the teaching staff? I would posit that the fundamental problem here is the lack of high expectations in the top leadership, not most of our teachers.

Corrupt practices involving inappropriate relationships among the School Board Chairman, Vice Chairman, Superintendent, the Beaufort County Commissioner Chairman, Vice Chairman and Manager. These six people seem to think they can get in a back room and settle issues, bring them to the two Boards and get approval votes. The reason they think they can get away with this corrupt practice is that they do get away with it! This system has worked well for them to hide serious low performance during past years. It does not serve the public at all. This backroom dealing is simply a way to avoid compliance with the spirit and intent of the Open Meetings Law in North Carolina. What are they trying to hide? Turns out, plenty.

When I have talked about corrupt practices in the past some of those mentioned try to confuse the subject of corruption by saying they are being accused of being dishonest in money handling. That is not usually what I am saying. There are many other forms of corruption in government. Corruption as I am using term means: Systemic failures when government functions in a way it should not function. It is like flawed computer code that is corrupt and does not function as it should. To ignore a pervasive problem of poor student discipline is a corruption of the duty to provide a safe and orderly environment and teach students to obey rules. It is corruption for school leaders to not level with the public about the low performance of a majority of our students/schools. When was the last time you heard a school board member talk about students in BCS being selected for prestigious scholarships like the Morehead and Nation Merit?

Above all else it is corruption when the amount of taxpayer money being spent on our schools goes up multiples more than does student performance. And it is corruption when the leaders of our school system accept the unacceptable, which then becomes acceptable. I challenge our Superintendent and School Board leaders to convince the taxpayers we do not have a race to the bottom in performance while we have a race to the top in spending. We simply cannot afford to allow this to continue. Is it any wonder parents are fleeing the public schools for home-schooling and private schools?

The manipulation of the two boards works well because of the Democrat-RINO vote on the Board of County Commissioners and the We all have to stick together because we work for the Superintendent mentality on the School Board. This is simply corruption of these two boards.

The Board of Commissioners fund the Board of Education and have a duty to know where and how that more than 17 million dollars is being spent and what results it achieves. Commissioners do not know how the money is spent. Efforts to get answers are shut down by the RINOs and Democrats on the Board of County Commissioners.

The School Board has applied for a grant of lottery money to build a new school they estimate to cost $52 million dollars. Beaufort County taxpayers would have to pay 11 million of the total. The Board of Education wants to build a new school at the Eastern Elementary site. They propose to house about eleven hundred students ranging in age from 5 to about 10 years. They would shut down the current John Cotton Tayloe and the Eastern Elementary facilities.

This is a really bad idea. Both these buildings are adequate for our present needs. We have a declining school population. The last credible facilities study of the Beaufort County Schools was done about 10 years ago and showed that only half of the school space was being used as it was designed for. We had about 900 more students then than we do now, so the situation is even worse today. Why waste money simply because it is available or free? The taxpayers should vote on this spending as a bond issue.

This is a bad idea for another very important reason. Why would anyone want to continue to consolidate schools with the terrible performance of our already consolidated schools. There are many who believe school consolidation has been a dismal failure nationally, not just here in Beaufort County. Insanity is continuing to do the same thing while expecting different results.

This is also a bad idea because young children (4-5 year olds) do not need to be placed in huge institutional buildings with older students. It can terrify a small child. Any time large numbers of people, of any age, are forced to congregate together a lot of social issues are created. On the other side of the coin, children who have unique needs tend to get lost and ignored in large systems. One wonders if our superintendent and school board bosses have looked at reducing cross-town bussing to bunch all these kids together in one place. Since merger, the Washington Attendance Area has operated one of the most inefficient busing programs in this part of the state. Every day we bus hundreds of children past very usable buildings to facilities further from their home and then turn around and bus they the opposite direction in later years. It makes no sense (except to achieve racial balance). Smaller, community-based schools make much more sense to me than mega-facilities and busing.

If we are interested in improving the quality of education and therefore excellence in student learning, we need to consider neighborhood schools with school choice. It is much more comforting to a child and his parents to know he will attend the same, smaller, more stable, neighborhood school for 8 years. I am willing to take some of this grant money to look at neighborhood schools based on a PK-8 grade configuration. I am not willing to harm small children by having them attend these large institutions of very limited learning and having to ride school buses longer times to get there and back home. Since what we have been doing does not seem to have worked very well perhaps this School Board should consider doing things differently.

There is more but we will address some of these other issues, such as Woke Curriculum and instructional practices, in future articles.

We need good school board candidates to run for those seats up for election in the 2024 election. Candidates must file during December of 2023. We need to make changes in our School Board and Board of County Commissioners for many reasons in addition to those presented above. There are five School Board seats and four Commissioner seats available for the 2024 elections. If you are interested in running for one of these seats, call 252-943-5939 for assistance from the Conservative Club. Calling either the Democrat or Republican Parties is not advisable because they tend to look after their incumbents.

Insanity is continuing to do what you have been doing and expecting better results. It is time to elect a school board and County Commissioner majority that will make some needed changes in our schools.
TN gets first electric rickshaw from Piaggio

Chennai, Oct 26 (UNI) Piaggio Vehicles Private Ltd (PVPL), a 100% subsidiary of the Italian auto giant Piaggio Group and Indias leading manufacturer of small commercial vehicles, on Thursday launched the all-new passenger 3-wheeler EV, Ape E-city FX NE Max in Tamil Nadu.

The Ape E-city FX NE Max is the first Piaggio 3-wheeler passenger EV to receive approval from the state transport authority in Tamil Nadu, making it a category entrant for the market.

The new vehicle was unveiled by Mr Diego Graffi, Chairman and MD, and Mr. Amit Sagar, EVP  Commercial Vehicles, Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd, a company release said.

As pioneers of Indias 3W EV revolution, Piaggio Vehicles has yet again taken steps to revolutionize Tamil Nadus EV landscape by introducing the citys first 3W Passenger vehicle EV - Ape E-city FX NE Max. This vehicle promises to transform last-mile passenger transportation while prioritizing sustainability, earnability, higher driving range, and cost-effectiveness. This EV is fully assembled by an all-women team at Piaggios Baramati factory.

Mr. Diego Graffi said, We are thrilled to introduce an industry-first EV in the passenger vehicle segment, the Ape E-city FX NE Max in Chennai. This vehicle represents the future of sustainable and economical urban mobility. It is designed to cater to the evolving needs of our customers, providing not only a clean and green mode of transportation but also enhancing their overall travel experience."

UNI GV 1728
These are the Public Comments presented by Ray Leary to the Beaufort County School Board meeting on October 24, 2023. During the September 19, 2023 board meeting Dr. Cheeseman explained to the board an incident that occurred at the Beaufort County Early College High School. An instructor handed out material to the students that was not in the approved curriculum. Dr. Cheesemans comments in the video below.

October 24, 20023 board meeting public comments.

This comment is in response to the BCS board meeting minutes of September 19, 2023, item #8. The minutes were approved on October 10, 2023.

Superintendent Dr. Matthew Cheeseman presented information to the Board concerning information that was distributed to some students at Beaufort County Early College High School. An article was written about a class assignment and Brunswick County Schools was named in error in the article. Dr. Cheeseman is working with BCCC President Dr. Loope to clarify our expectations and with the author of the article.

The following was not recorded in the minutes:

Does not say the information was inappropriate. Does not say the information was not authorized Does not say the information was not included in the approved curriculum Does not say it was introduced by a single un-named person Does not say the information was related to transgender identity Does not mention the Gender Unicorn handout to students Does not mention any corrective action Does not name the referenced article or the author It does say that Dr. Cheeseman is working with Dr. Loope to clarify expectations

Anyone reading this record of the meeting that was not present at the meeting on September 19, 2023 will have no knowledge of the true nature of the aforementioned information. This is one example illustrating the boards negligence in maintaining accurate minutes of meetings of public bodies as required by the North Carolina General Statues.

NCGS 143-318.10 (e)

Every public body shall keep full and accurate minutes of all official meetings, including any closed sessions held pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11.

End of Public Comments presentation

The next video is from the October 24, 2023 board meeting. Board member Carolyn Walker requested time to ask each board member to denounce the inclusion of the unapproved instructional materials in Beaufort County schools. She also asked if any board member had prior knowledge of this gender identity material being presented to the early college students.

The public should encourage the board members to ensure the minutes of school board minutes are complete and accurate. As one can see in this instance, the minutes did not reflect the proceedings of the board meeting on September 19, 2023.

Editors Comments: It is instructive to recall that it was only a few weeks ago that concern was raised to this board about another inappropriate curriculum content (Critical Race Theory) and at that time it was stated several times that CRT is not being taught in the school system. Considering this imbroglio at the Early College High School, one has to wonder what other inappropriate material is or has been used in our schools. If unapproved materials were used in one instance how can the public trust that it is not now or will happen in the future.

Our point can be simply stated: This incident at the Early College is an example of the negligence on the part of administrators in insuring inappropriate materials are not being used. And we would add that Ms. Walkers indignation that the public might think the board condoned the illicit materials that were distributed is a lame excuse to try to close the door after the horses have already fled. The point is that the policy was obviously not sufficient to stop this known distribution. But it remains in effect! This board was warned that its policy was inadequate and it remains inadequate. How many more known or unknown instances will it take before they develop an effective policy and administrative procedures.

And let the record show that there has been no public disclosure of what disciplinary actions have been taken to hold the administrators and the teacher accountable for doing something that is now being so roundly condemned. Is this board accepting the unacceptable, by in effect affording immunity for this mistake, or was it a violation of Board policy? The current enforcement procedures are obviously weak when no sanctions have been imposed as a result of this instance.

But let us be clear on this point: We are not advocating for punitive action against the teacher. The Superintendent and board members have bestowed immunity on that teacher. We found it incredible that the Superintendent made a snap public decision in this case (that a wrong was committed). That decision was devoid of respect for the teachers due process rights. Consequently the teacher would never be able to get a fair hearing if significant sanctions were to have been or will be imposed.

This board will be well advised to pull the policy, that should have prevented this mistake from ever happening, for review and de minimus it should be amended it to provide for clear and meaningful sanctions if violated in the future. These board members should learn from this failure at multiple levels. This issue we are suggesting here is not whether the material was appropriate or not, but rather that the boards policies and the administrative procedures in this case were clearly not adequate to prevent a teacher from doing what should have been seen as clearly inappropriate.

We are suggesting that while it was wrong for this material to be distributed, it is equally wrong not to hold those who should have kept it from happening in the first place accountable. And that clearly falls on the Superintendents and principals shoulders. The teachers decisions were indeed inappropriate, but it is just as clear that others, including those responsible for what is being taught in our schools, were at fault also and just as deserving of sanctions as was the teacher. And the public is left to wonder if the sanctions, if any, taken in this case are sufficient to prevent a reoccurrence.

No, board members, it is not sufficient for you to say you did not know about or condone such materials, any more that it being an adequate defense by the teacher that he/she did not know it was wrong. That misses the most important point in all this. The board should have had adequate policies to prevent it from happening and to hold violators accountable for not following the policy. The very fact that it happened is an indictment of the board not fulfilling its policy-making function and for not holding the administrators accountable for seeing that its policies are being followed.

And finally, we offer the following for consideration by this board. Good policy making does not seek to require the board to approve such materials. That is clearly ridiculous. We did not approve something is as foolish as saying we did not know the hazard was there. Rather good policy, in a free society, is almost always negative. It should be written, as are statutory laws, in terms of what is prohibited, not what is permissible. The staff, parents and everyone concerned should be able to read the boards policies and discern whether a specific action (or piece of materialas in this case) is inappropriate. That the board did not approve it is irrelevant. The important thing is to write the policies in such a way that reasonable people can discern what is prohibited. When, in doubt there should be a clear channel to allow the question to be answered higher up the chain. And the higher the question rises up the channel, the greater the responsibility/accountable becomes.

Let us hope that this teacher, the school administrators, the board and most of all the Superintendent learned enough from this that it will be prevented from happening again.





poll#210
I am shocked, saddened and horrified to learn of Sams brutal murder. Sam was as kind a person as Ive ever known. She was driven by her sincere love of her community, state and country. Sam truly used her faith and activism to create a better place for everyone. pic.twitter.com/gIYRP4USaj  Dana Nessel (@dananessel) October 21, 2023

A Synagogue board president with deep connections to Michigan Democrats was found stabbed to death outside of her home in Detroit Saturday morning.Samantha Woll, 40, who previously worked for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Democrat Attorney General Dana Nessel, was the president of Isaac Agree Downtown Detroit Synagogue, a position she has held since last year, The Detroit Free Press reported. She was found on the ground outside her home with multiple stab wounds at around 6:30 a.m. Saturday and pronounced dead at the scene.Nessel said in a statement.Woll was recognized by the Detroit Jewish News in 2017 for beingPolice are investigating and have yet to determine a motive and have not taken anyone into custody. Authorities said they found a trail of blood leading from Woll's body back to her home where they believe the crime occurred, according to the Detroit Free Press. The synagogue president's stabbing comes amid a rise in anti-Semitic threats and harassment across the U.S. in the days following Hamas' October 7 terrorist attack on Israel.Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said he had just spent time with Woll weeks ago at the "dedication of the newly renovated Downtown Synagogue" and called her one of the city's "great young leaders."Duggan said. Just weeks ago, I shared a day of joy with Sam at the dedication of the newly renovated Downtown Synagogue. It was a project she successfully led with great pride and enthusiasm. Sam's loss has left a huge hole in the Detroit community. This entire city joins with her family and friends in mourning her tragic death."Slotkin also posted a tribute to Woll, saying she was "heartbroken" over the news.Slotkin wrote on X, adding,
Eighty-seven million patients in the U.S. had confidential health information breached in 2023, more than double that of last year, according to a report by Atlas VPN, an internet encryption company.

The report, published Oct. 18, used data from the HHS' Office for Civil Rights database, where health systems or companies are required to report data breaches that affect more than 500 patients.

Here are four additional findings from the report:

1. In 2023, 86,948,646 patients had health data exposed in data breaches, compared to 37,064,416 in 2022  an increase of 57%.

2. So far in 2023 there have been 480 data breaches reported in the health sector, compared to 373 in the entirety of last year.

3. The largest breach this year was of Nashville, Tenn.-based HCA Healthcare, in which 11 million patients' data was affected.

4. California has had the most data breaches of any state this year, with 43 organizations experiencing incidents. The state's large population and high concentration of healthcare providers are likely factors.
Prosser (Wash.) Memorial Health is due to complete the construction of its $112 million replacement hospital with a topping off ceremony Oct. 26, according to a Tri-Cities Area Journal of Business report.

The publicly owned rural hospital is financing the project mainly through an $80.5 million loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The delayed project, now set to see an opening date of 2025, will replace an existing 25-bed hospital, which is likely to be razed and rezoned as a residential community, or sold.

More details on the replacement hospital project can be found here.
Job search engine Adzuna released new research Oct. 26 highlighting travel nurse jobs and their average advertised salaries and vacancies as of September 2023.

Adzuna pulls job listings from the U.S. and 18 other countries. The company indexes job ads from more than 100,000 companies and more than 1,000 sources  from large job boards such as Monster to direct employers including Amazon, Walmart and Ford.

For the new research, which was shared with Becker's, Adzuna examined average advertised salaries and vacancies solely in the U.S. Advertised vacancies represent the number of jobs that are open/available to fill.

Here are the advertised salaries and job vacancies as of September 2023 for travel nurse jobs, by state, according to the research:

Alabama

Average advertised salary: $102,755

Advertised vacancies: 238

Alaska

Average advertised salary: $130,683

Advertised vacancies: 362

Arizona

Average advertised salary: $114,763

Advertised vacancies: 813

Arkansas

Average advertised salary: $104,499

Advertised vacancies: 414

California

Average advertised salary: $135,309

Advertised vacancies: 2,138

Colorado

Average advertised salary: $125,413

Advertised vacancies: 866

Connecticut

Average advertised salary: $136,518

Advertised vacancies: 490

Delaware

Average advertised salary: N/A

Advertised vacancies: 51

District of Columbia

Average advertised salary: $128,352

Advertised vacancies: 167

Florida

Average advertised salary: $108,843

Advertised vacancies: 351

Georgia

Average advertised salary: $101,758

Advertised vacancies: 521

Hawaii

Average advertised salary: $110,632

Advertised vacancies: 232

Idaho

Average advertised salary: $123,410

Advertised vacancies: 424

Illinois

Average advertised salary: $133,498

Advertised vacancies: 715

Indiana

Average advertised salary: $121,219

Advertised vacancies: 903

Iowa

Average advertised salary: $121,966

Advertised vacancies: 542

Kansas

Average advertised salary: $112,400

Advertised vacancies: 317

Kentucky

Average advertised salary: $115,933

Advertised vacancies: 459

Louisiana

Average advertised salary: $117,563

Advertised vacancies: 255

Maine

Average advertised salary: $143,804

Advertised vacancies: 264

Maryland

Average advertised salary: $128,678

Advertised vacancies: 795

Massachusetts

Average advertised salary: $133,618

Advertised vacancies: 896

Michigan

Average advertised salary: $114,115

Advertised vacancies: 547

Minnesota

Average advertised salary: $133,613

Advertised vacancies: 211

Mississippi

Average advertised salary: $100,275

Advertised vacancies: 147

Missouri

Average advertised salary: $115,673

Advertised vacancies: 551

Montana

Average advertised salary: $123,438

Advertised vacancies: 160

Nebraska

Average advertised salary: $123,133

Advertised vacancies: 174

Nevada

Average advertised salary: $130,132

Advertised vacancies: 104

New Hampshire

Average advertised salary: $124,224

Advertised vacancies: 385

New Jersey

Average advertised salary: $138,691

Advertised vacancies: 533

New Mexico

Average advertised salary: $138,657

Advertised vacancies: 420

New York

Average advertised salary: $134,578

Advertised vacancies: 1,568

North Carolina

Average advertised salary: $107,581

Advertised vacancies: 963

North Dakota

Average advertised salary: $131,873

Advertised vacancies: 215

Ohio

Average advertised salary: $125,523

Advertised vacancies: 899

Oklahoma

Average advertised salary: $103,842

Advertised vacancies: 302

Oregon

Average advertised salary: $128,683

Advertised vacancies: 811

Pennsylvania

Average advertised salary: $128,721

Advertised vacancies: 936

Rhode Island

Average advertised salary: $125,837

Advertised vacancies: 180

South Carolina

Average advertised salary: $101,464

Advertised vacancies: 437

South Dakota

Average advertised salary: $123,084

Advertised vacancies: 200

Tennessee

Average advertised salary: $106,248

Advertised vacancies: 450

Texas

Average advertised salary: $113,079

Advertised vacancies: 1,010

Utah

Average advertised salary: $107,605

Advertised vacancies: 87

Vermont

Average advertised salary: $113,151

Advertised vacancies: 189

Virginia

Average advertised salary: $117,723

Advertised vacancies: 992

Washington

Average advertised salary: $133,628

Advertised vacancies: 1,300

West Virginia

Average advertised salary: $116,863

Advertised vacancies: 255

Wisconsin

Average advertised salary: $131,969

Advertised vacancies: 543

Wyoming

Average advertised salary: N/A

Advertised vacancies: 70
Some hospitals and health systems are being criticized for what they did  or didn't say  about the conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Boston Globe reported.

Physicians at Boston-based Tufts Medicine told the newspaper they were angered their employer didn't go far enough in condemning Hamas' murderous attacks in early October.

"We have great concern and compassion for our employees, colleagues, and all people who are directly and indirectly affected by the conflict in Israel and Gaza, and unequivocally condemn acts of terrorism, denounce violence, and mourn the senseless loss of innocent lives," Tufs said in a statement to the Globe.

Meanwhile, two physicians at Boston Children's Hospital said they were upset that Palestinians and the retaliations in Gaza weren't mentioned in a message from their health system, according to the Oct. 23 story. Boston Children's sent out a second email hours after its first that changed "our Jewish colleagues and friends" to "our Jewish and Palestinian" colleagues and friends. The health system didn't respond to requests for comment from the Globe.

Public relations experts told the newspaper the issue shows the delicate nature of how hospitals and health systems respond to tragic events, such as mass shootings or the murder of George Floyd.

"This is six-dimensional chess," Boston public relations consultant Andy Paven told the Globe. "I take it as a given that (these statements) are born of a genuine need to speak to something that shocks the conscience. But as soon as it's the Middle East, you're wading into thousands of years of conflict that no one is able to untangle."
Patients are having difficulty accessing medical records from Herington (Kan.) Hospital, a 25-bed critical access hospital that closed Oct. 9, local news outlet KWCH reported Oct. 26.

The governor's office is unable to assist patients in accessing their records, as Herington Hospital was not affiliated with the state. Emprise Bank is currently in the process of foreclosing the property.

The hospital, which had been providing services to Herington since 1919, closed due to financial troubles.

"News reports indicated that Herington Hospital was making medical records available to patients," Emprise told KWCH. "Emprise has no knowledge as to whether that occurred or any other actions Herington Hospital might have taken with respect to patient medical records. To the extent any medical records become accessible to Emprise, Emprise will work with all appropriate parties to maintain the confidentiality of the records."
Only 16 hospitals have converted to rural emergency hospitals since the CMS designation was made available Jan. 1, but more may follow suit in the coming quarters as rural hospitals continue to be challenged by staffing shortages and rising costs, which are stifling recovery efforts and leaving some on the brink of bankruptcy or closure.

Since 2005, 100 rural hospitals have completely shut down, with another 95 facilities no longer providing inpatient services, according to data compiled by the University of North Carolina's Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research. Thirty-seven of those rural hospital closures have occurred since 2020.

To address concerns that rural and critical access hospital closures are reducing access to care for people in rural areas, CMS established the rural emergency hospital designation, a new Medicare provider type.

The designation aims to curb rural hospital closures by offering them a chance to close infrequently used inpatient beds and focus on outpatient and emergency department services.

In exchange for giving up their expensive inpatient beds and focusing solely on emergency and outpatient care, rural emergency hospitals receive a 5 percent increase in Medicare payments as well as an average facility fee payment of about $3.2 million a year.

While the designation has helped some hospitals survive under a new provider type, others are still weighing the benefits and drawbacks of implementing such a drastic change to their services and business model.

The hospitals that have made the switch are predominantly in the South and in states that have not expanded Medicaid coverage. Here are the 16 facilities that have converted to rural emergency hospitals, beginning with the most recent:

Harper Community Hospital (Buffalo, Okla.)

South Central Kansas Medical Center (Arkansas City)

St. Bernards Five Rivers Medical Center (Pocahontas, Ark.)

Assumption Community Hospital (Napoleonville, La.)

Sturgis (Mich.) Hospital

TriStar Ashland City (Tenn.) Medical Center

Stillwater Medical-Blackwell (Okla.)

Blue Ridge (Ga.) Medical Center

St. Luke's Health-Memorial San Augustine (Texas)

Jefferson County Hospital (Fayette, Miss.)

Stillwater Medical-Perry (Okla.)

Anson (Texas) General Hospital

Alliance Healthcare System (Holly Springs, Miss.)

Falls Community Hospital and Clinic (Marlin, Texas)

Irwin County Hospital (Ocilla, Ga.)

Crosbyton (Texas) Clinic Hospital

St. Bernards Healthcare's Five Rivers transitioned to a rural emergency hospital on Sept. 1, the first hospital in Arkansas to do so.

With inpatient extended care accounting for only about 5 percent of the hospital's business, the decision was a relatively easy one for the facility, Randy Barymon, the hospital's administrator, told local news outlet KAIT8.

"Cost of care has certainly gone up, and reimbursement has gone up. It's actually harder to get reimbursed for the care that we provide here at Five Rivers," Mr. Barymon told KAIT8. "I think a lot of rural facilities are seeing a trend down inpatient extended-stay care. This was really just a natural progression for us."

For Anson General Hospital, the decision to convert to a rural emergency hospital came down to survivability.

The Texas hospital reported three consecutive years of financial losses and patient volumes declined to about 1.7 inpatients a week, on average, partially due to factors related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Our numbers drastically declined, and we knew that this was our only hope to stay open," Chief Nursing Officer Anna Doan, BSN, RN, told Becker's.

The hospital filed its application in early January and, effective March 27, has been operating as a rural emergency hospital. CEO Ted Matthews retired from the hospital more than a decade ago and returned to helm the facility in February.

"We have embraced this new identity," Mr. Matthews told Becker's. "What it allowed us to do is continue to provide access to care. We were the only hospital at one time. Jones County had three hospitals, and we are the lone surviving hospital. And if we had to close, there would have been no hospitals in the county."
New Jersey's department of health warned in a letter to state and local officials that Hoboken University Medical Center is facing financial distress, nj.com reported Oct. 25.

The department's letter noted the hospital, part of Bayonne, N.J.-based CarePoint Health, requested an advance in state subsidies for the second year in a row and stated the hospital was operating at a 14% loss, the report said. Vendors with the hospital are also waiting nearly half a year to be paid.

The letter, sent to Hoboken's mayor and other state and local officials, also said that HUMC regularly had 25.19 days of cash on hand.

State Assembly members responding to the letter emphasized the hospital network's importance to the community and urged for more financial help from the state.

CarePoint Health's other Hudson County hospitals are also seeing similar financial woes, the report said.
Deborah Browning, MSN, RN, is the new CEO of USA Health's Children's and Women's Hospital in Mobile, Ala. As birthing services dissolve and the busy pediatric season looms, her sights are set on growth, she told Becker's.

Editor's note: Some parts of this conversation were lightly edited for clarity and concision.

Question: You're uniquely positioned as a women's and children's hospital right now. The healthcare industry has seen many maternity units shutter over the past year. Do the recent closures provoke any concerns?

Deborah Browning: You know, it's interesting, because we've seen three hospitals announce in the last couple of weeks here in Alabama that they will cease delivering babies. So that creates for many women the need to drive for over an hour, hour and a half to reach care, and for some families that just doesn't or can't happen due to jobs, due to gas money, to travel.

So it is going to be upon our team to think about how we begin to provide outreach to those communities, and whether we think about transport, whether we think about outreach clinics. We've got to find a way to partner with smaller communities and then refer them into our services as we can.

Q: Do you expect to see a surge in patient population as more local hospitals cease birthing services?

DB: I think it is very possible within our community that we'll see additional patients and need to be able to accommodate that volume. I also believe we need to partner for a strategy around maternal care during pregnancy so that when [additional patients] come to deliver, the outcomes are optimized.

Q: Speaking of partnerships  which are front-of-mind for many academic health systems right now  are there any specific organizations you're teaming up with?

DB: We have been partnering very heavily with United Way here in Mobile, and then secondly with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. The Children's and Women's Hospital at University of South Alabama was one of a cohort of academic medical centers that have spent the last several months partnering to study decreasing perinatal morbidity and mortality.

[One project underway] is a home blood pressure monitoring program for women who have delivered their babies and have been discharged home. We also send our moms home with a bracelet that says "I've just delivered," so that if a mom presents back to the emergency room in her hometown and she's running a fever, she looks ill and she forgets to say, "Hey, I just delivered a month ago," it's a clue to the medical staff that this woman may be at risk for complications after delivery.

And then we are currently using adaptive software that helps us begin to look at how we provide care and how that care may be influenced by patient age, by patient race, so that we begin to understand our own disparities in care and begin to impact. That's really the first step for all of us as healthcare organizations, is recognizing within our doors where we can begin to do things better.

Q: What other priorities do you have for your first year as CEO?

DB: The biggest priority is the development of our strategic plan for the growth of both children's and women's. Children's and Women's Hospital is unique in that it is a children's and women's hospital together  a pediatric tower and a women's tower  and so it's really beginning to think about what we may need for physical changes, renovations, additions, to give us more neonatal ICU beds, more pediatric ICU beds, because we will be really busy all during the winter. And we never want to have to divert a child from this community.

Likewise, our OB business is busy and I think it will continue to grow, especially as other hospitals stop services, so how do we accommodate that growth given our current setting, and how do we plan to stay poised for future growth to meet needs?

Q: Any specific challenges you foresee as you develop that strategic plan?

DB: I think for all of us [in healthcare], it's recruitment of key subspecialty services. We know we're facing a shortage of OB[-GYN]s in the coming years, shortages within anesthesia. And these are problems that we all have, but they can certainly impact care and the services that we provide.

I also think fundamentally, you know, we have a different workforce post-pandemic: many, many new graduates on nursing units, people who maybe have not worked in a hospital before. So how do we support people in healthcare organizations that are fundamentally changed forever since the pandemic? Although, we are now very uniquely able to respond in ways that we could not before the pandemic. So I think the pandemic gave us the opportunity to learn how to mobilize very quickly in times of emergency situations, and pull very strong teams together.
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Stalling by Mercy Iowa City hospital authorities over the facility's sale is causing employees to leave and patients to cancel procedures, according to the orthopedic group operating at the bankrupt hospital in an Oct. 25 report from The Gazette.

The uncertainty over the finalization of the sale of the 234-bed hospital to bondholder Preston Hollow Community Capital, which has placed a winning auction bid of $29 million, is wasting time and money, Iowa City, Iowa-based Steindler Orthopedic Clinic said in a court document asking a judge to enforce Mercy City's compliance with the auction results.

"As the manager of the ortho service line, Steindler surgeons and professionals are on-site at the hospital daily," according to the filed statement. "Accordingly, Steindler is acutely aware of the negative impact that the delay in bringing the sale process to a timely conclusion has had on the ongoing hospital operations. Steindler is also experiencing a negative impact because Steindler patients have canceled or postponed surgeries scheduled at Mercy."

Steindler President and CEO Patrick Magallanes told The Gazette 18 patient cancellations, referrals elsewhere and postponements have been reported in recent days, in addition to departures by employees.

"There have been a number of resignations over the past 30 days, and excellent caring folks are leaving," he said. "This is alarming to our team and should be to those hoping to see a new nonprofit hospital open."

A hearing is scheduled Oct. 30 to clarify procedures over how to fund ongoing operating losses at the hospital.

Becker's has reached out to Mercy Iowa City for comment.
Yale New Haven (Conn.) Health has resumed negotiations with Connecticut officials about a proposed deal for the system to acquire three hospitals from Prospect Medical Holdings, the Connecticut Mirror reported Oct. 25.

Discussions stalled last week after Yale New Haven and Prospect Medical refused to keep talks private. Both parties have now agreed to sign a confidentiality agreement, a spokesperson for Connecticut's Office of Health Strategy told the Connecticut Mirror.

Yale is seeking $80 million from the state to support recovery efforts at the three Prospect hospitals, which were hit with a ransomware attack in August. The facilities are Waterbury Hospital, Manchester Memorial Hospital and Rockville General Hospital in Vernon.

Yale is also seeking to renegotiate the previously agreed upon $435 million purchase price for the three hospitals.

If the state does not approve the deal, the facilities may not remain financially viable, hospital executives told lawmakers in a meeting last month.
As the integration of AI is expected to rapidly increase in healthcare, Mike Thompson, vice president of enterprise data intelligence at Cedars-Sinai, said there needs to be a checks and balances system from innovators, healthcare institutions and regulatory entities.

"As technology advances, the medical community will need to develop standards for these innovative technologies, as well as revisit current regulatory systems on which physicians and patients rely to ensure that healthcare AI is responsible, evidence-based, bias-free, and designed and deployed to promote equity," Mr. Thompson said in an Oct. 25 news release from Cedars-Sinai.

In order to mitigate some of AI's biases, the Los Angeles-based health system has maintained the belief that crucial AI algorithms should enhance the expertise of individuals, rather than substitute them. Therefore, Cedars-Sinai emphasizes the importance of involving a "human in the loop" to assess recommendations as a key strategy for addressing bias.

Cedars-Sinai has also established a structured framework to guide the ethical advancement and application of AI. This set of guidelines and policies is crafted to guarantee that the progress of AI in the field of medicine is advantageous for patients, healthcare practitioners and the broader healthcare sector.

The framework also promotes the need for responsible professional supervision to ensure the safe, efficient and fair utilization of AI.
Sacramento, Calif.-based Sutter Health and pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca will launch an app this winter to help cancer patients manage and track chemotherapy drugs more easily.

During pilot testing of the MediConnect app, Anne Nilon, a 60-year-old breast cancer patient, noted in the Oct. 25 news release that navigating the mountain of medication that often come with a cancer diagnosis can sometimes feel like "finishing a jigsaw puzzle" but that the tools in the app "make it easier, with a lower likelihood of missed or incorrect doses of my cancer chemo medications."

The app also features a way for Sutter physicians to monitor patients adherence to chemo medication schedules and make sure they stay on track.

"It's like a savvy Siri, custom-made for cancer patients to help them simplify complex chemo regimens in ways that increase the likelihood of medication effectiveness and decrease the chance of side effects from improper chemo use," said Rajesh Behl, MD, the lead physician involved in the app's development, hematology malignancy specialist and medical director of Sutters Alta Bates Summit Comprehensive Cancer Center.
In 2020, more nurse practitioners than physicians entered the provider workforce. Now, as workforce shortages persist and healthcare organizations struggle to meet patient demand for care, industry experts say having a strategic mix of advanced practice providers is critical.

The healthcare consulting firm Kaufman Hall published its annual state of healthcare performance report Oct. 24, which was based on a survey of 106 hospital and health system leaders across the U.S. It found that 63% of respondents said their organizations are struggling to meet demand for patient access to physicians. Meanwhile, nearly half of the leaders reported increasing volumes for care in outpatient settings.

"A lot of that is still due to pent-up demand from the pandemic, particularly around elective cases like colonoscopies, for instance; a lot of people put those off," Lance Robinson, managing director and practice leader of performance improvement at Kaufman Hall, told Becker's. "Now they're coming back into the care delivery models and it's increasing volumes," placing additional pressure on physicians.

By now, it is clear many workforce shortages are here to stay, and experts say organizations should think differently about their care delivery models if they want to do a better job of keeping up with care demands and controlling costs.

"Our recommendation is that clients look at how they are employing APPs as a mix with the physicians because there's a lot more of them out in the market right now than there are physicians," Mr. Robinson said.

About 36,000 nurse practitioners entered the healthcare workforce in 2020, alongside nearly 10,000 physician assistants and 2,600 certified registered nurse anesthesiologists. Together, they made up more than 60% of providers entering the workforce. Only 37% were physicians, according to a Kaufman Hall analysis of data from professional societies. Increasingly, this shift is manifesting in primary care and hospital settings.

Through interviews and analyses of performance data, the firm has found organizations that leverage a higher percent of APPs in their respective workforces increasingly outperform peers on productivity and compensation metrics.

"One high-performing academic health system in the Southeast now employs four APPs for every physician in their hospitalist and internist services," the firm previously said in a blog post. "With labor costs that are about a third as much per APP (versus per physician), the system is able to staff its intensive care units with APPs while physicians oversee clinical delivery from a centralized, systemwide e-command center."

Recently, Keck Hospital of USC in Los Angeles started hiring more nurse practitioners, which has supported efficiency in the nursing department, the hospital's chief nursing officer, Ceonne Houston-Raasikh, DNP, RN, told Becker's.

In addition to supporting the work of physicians, nurse practitioners "are working very closely with the nurses," she said. "Sometimes if a nurse doesn't want to reach out to the medical staff, they can reach out to the NP who is there in the unit and can get orders more quickly if they need them. Adding them to our care delivery model has been very successful for the work that we do."
Foundation Health Partners in Fairbanks, Alaska, will open the FHP Orthopedic & Spine Specialists Nov. 1.

Stewart Kerr, MD, will join Foundation Health Partners and lead the clinic, according to an Oct. 25 news release. The clinic will offer surgical and nonsurgical spine and orthopedic care.

Before medical school Dr. Kerr was an active-duty Navy SEAL and paramedic, and he later became a team surgeon for miltary units. He earned his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Md. and completed his residency at Naval Medical Center San Diego.
Donald Corenman, MD, joined Advanced Neurosurgery of Hawaii in Honolulu.

He will work out of the practice's new Kahului clinic, according to an Oct. 26 news release from the practice. Dr. Corenman earned his medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and completed his residency at Detroit Medical Center.

Dr. Corenman previously worked as co-chief of spinal trauma at Denver Health Medical Center and The Steadman Clinic in Vail, Colo.

Advanced Neurosurgery of Hawaii opened earlier this year. Jeffrey Roh, MD, and Thomas Noh, MD, also work at the practice.
Spine surgery is not something a physician can always do alone. Often spine surgeons will team up with physicians across specialties before, during and after a case.

Three spine surgeons share the collaborative opportunities they leverage.

Ask Spine Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to spine surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. Becker's invites all spine surgeon and specialist responses.

Next week's question: What's the best lesson you've learned from a spine surgeon younger than you?

Please send responses to Carly Behm at cbehm@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CDT Wednesday, Nov. 1.

Editor's note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity and length.

Question: What opportunities should spine surgeons take to collaborate with other specialties?

Hansen Bow, MD, PhD. UCI Health (South Orange, Calif.): Collaboration is essential for a successful outcome in spine surgery. In addition to collaboration within members of the spine surgery team taking care of the patient, collaboration with other medical and surgical specialties are just as critical. Prior to an operation, consultation with an endocrinologist may be helpful to optimize bone strength in patients who are osteoporotic and in need of a fusion operation. Additionally, interventional pain can assist in helping to diagnose and treat causes of pain. During an operation, ENT, thoracic, general and vascular surgery could help in the approach for an anterior operation.

For almost every patient with spinal oncology, a team is needed to coordinate care. The medical oncologist is frequently the primary medical contact for the patient and may have insights into whether a cancer has a better prognosis due to recent advancements in targeted therapy. Advancements in radiation oncology in the past two decades have enabled surgeries that are safer and require less recovery time (i.e. separation surgery) to be similarly effective to aggressive surgeries for metastatic cancer. Similarly, neurointerventional proceduralists may be able to embolize tumors resulting in less blood loss during surgery. Recent publications have advocated for plastic surgery closure of surgeries for spinal oncology, as they result in fewer postoperative wound complications. Additionally, plastic surgery may be able to provide vascularized corpectomy autografts in situations where pseudoarthrosis is a high concern. Lastly, the two-surgeon model with a neurosurgeon and an orthopedic spine surgeon, especially for more challenging cases, has been shown to result in better outcomes.

Brian Gantwerker, MD. The Craniospinal Center of Los Angeles: Cross-specialty collaboration is a critical aspect of any successful surgeon. I work with several other disciplines in a cross-collaborative manner that is for the betterment of patient care. For instance, my approach surgeon for my ALIFs and lumbar arthroplasty is a consummate professional. We trade ideas on business, medical advocacy and curbside each other when needed. Pain management is also absolutely critical to keep tabs on how patients are doing outside of ones own bubble. So every opportunity you can get, take it. Medical specialties are also critical, especially with co-management perioperatively, especially as some of our patients age and become more medically complex  especially when so many are trying to offload this to scales and guidelines.

Christian Zimmerman, MD. St. Alphonsus Medical Group and SAHS Neuroscience Institute (Boise, Idaho): For decades, collaboration between medical/surgical specialties have been integrated to provide "best practice" to patients, and most complex spinal surgeons currently utilize the many available adjuncts routinely. For instance, complex anterior spinal procedures are best managed with co-surgeons and intraoperative spinal cord monitoring enhances patient safety with Neurology colleague oversight. Integration of multifaceted specialty care is a mainstay of secure healthcare delivery and will continue.

Henceforth, telemedicine and its expanding use in clinical and surgical therapies prospectively provides additional opportunity for collaborative discussion and integrated critical appraisals.
The US special economic envoy to Northern Ireland is optimistic about powersharing resuming after meeting leaders as part of a four-day visit by potential American investors.

Joe Kennedy III is leading a US delegation of around 50 potential investors and job creators, including representatives from Meta, Google and Microsoft.

It was Mr Kennedys fourth visit to Northern Ireland but he has yet to see a functioning government.

After taking part in a breakfast event with Stormont politicians at Titanic Belfast, he went on to Queens University, where he officially opened the new students union building.

Speaking outside the university, Mr Kennedy said: Im hopeful about Stormont coming back. Its taken longer than anybody would like, and I reiterated that again this morning when I met with [the political leaders].

Addressing the ongoing political instability, Mr Kennedy said: These institutions need to be up and running. I have heard repeatedly from the individuals that I stand along with here this evening and from others that, if youre going to ask for major organisations to make major investments, having stable governance is critical.

President Joe Bidens envoy said that during meetings with political leaders, the importance of stable government had been highlighted.

He added: We need to get there. I do think they are getting there and I hope that happens soon.

Earlier, the US delegation attended a breakfast with leaders.

Afterwards, UUP leader Doug Beattie, said it was embarrassing to be hosting the delegation without a functioning Executive.

Mr Beattie indicated investors had raised the issue of political stability with him.

However, Marcie Frost from CalPERS (the California Public Employees Retirement System)said that other factors were in play too.

When we think about where we placed our capital on behalf of our members, we certainly do appreciate stability, she added.

But I think what we really discovered during this visit is that business is continuing. The work of his country is continuing in a way that makes it investable.

DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said the visit was a clear signal that Northern Ireland is open for business.

He added: The business delegation visited Northern Ireland looking for the opportunities that we offer.

They can follow in the footsteps of many other investments from the United States.

The visit is a very clear signal that Northern Ireland is open for business, and we always welcome interest from anyone seeking to bring jobs and economic growth to our shores.

I want to see a prosperous Northern Ireland where we continue to lead the world in many key sectors.

We want to see a prosperous Northern Ireland, but one too which is based on solid political foundations.

This visit sits outside of the work to secure an outcome that respects Northern Irelands place within the United Kingdom.

That work will continue, and while no one can predict whether we will achieve the necessary progress, I will continue to put all my efforts towards that goal.

The DUP has vetoed powersharing for more than a year in protest at the internal UK trade barriers created by the post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Mr Kennedy said the Windsor Framework had been well received by investors as having created opportunities, highlighting manufacturing as one area.

He added that this had been a particular area of interest for a number of delegates.

He explained: Part of the goal of this delegation was to be able to provide leading investors, leading business executives back in the United States, a perspective of Northern Ireland that might not always translate, given the sources of information that they have.

Read more Significant gaps still remain in trade border impasse talks  Donaldson

The delegation included representatives from financial services, green tech, IT and cybersecurity. They also visited Newry too to learn about investment opportunities.

On Tuesday a new $50m (41m) commitment to invest in Northern Ireland companies was made by the New York State Common Retirement Fund.

I think people are excited, excited enough to put $50m, reinvest $50m into Northern Ireland, excited enough to continue to expand their operations, Mr Kennedy said.

They are thrilled about the investments that they made 30 years ago into Northern Ireland, and have watched those ranks expand.

And theyre excited about the prospects that they continue to see on repeated visits back to their home and see that grow and the connections between places like Silicon Valley and Belfast.

I would say that people have been excited about this trip, that theyve had their eyes opened by this trip.

Mr Kennedy also announced a Florida company called Frontline would be investing 3.8m in Northern Ireland.

A new skills scheme aimed at helping people from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds was also announced. The scheme, funded by Bank of America, will benefit over 600 people and will be run by Belfast Metropolitan College.
China welcomes more high-quality Russian products to enter China: premier

Xinhua) 10:06, October 26, 2023

BISHKEK, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Wednesday that China welcomes more high-quality Russian products into the Chinese market and supports enterprises from China and Russia in deepening cooperation on automobile manufacturing.

Li made the remarks when meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Jay-Z has said that he would never sell his masters as getting the rights to them was the fight of my life.

The 53-year-old American rapper and record producer, real name Shawn Corey Carter, spoke to CBS Mornings Gayle King about his music career and why it is important that he owns his masters.

Artists who own the original sound recordings to their songs, known as masters, have the legal right to license them out if they wish to do so.

The rapper took King on a tour of the Jay-Z tribute exhibit, The Book Of Hov, at the Brooklyn Public Library, where some of his masters are located and was asked by King if he would ever sell them.

Jay-Z responded: No.

I get why people do it, Ive been fortunate enough to make money in this place, but for me, it was the fight of my life, he said.

Jay-Z was president of record label Def Jam Recordings for a three-year spell, until he announced that he would be stepping down from his role in 2007.

Speaking about his role and the journey it took to get back his masters, he said: You know from being an independent company from the beginning and then going through the Def Jam system not really understanding how that works and then having my masters, then going back to Def Jam as the president and then saying, Okay, Ill do this job and part of this job is my masters has to be reverted back to me.

I want my kids to see my work and if they decide to sell it, then its up to them.

The 24-time Grammy-award winning rapper is married to American pop superstar Beyonce and the couple have three children together, daughters Blue Ivy and Rumi and son Sir.

King and Jay-Z discussed whether his daughter Blue Ivy thinks hes cool, to which the rapper said: Blue, she be frontin on me a little bit, but she  I catch her.

I catch her in the corner, you know? Now she asks me if this is cool, her sneakers or whatever shes wearing.
Julia Fox has said that she finds it misogynistic when people want to talk about how Kanye West put her on the map.

In January 2022, the Italian-American actress and model, 33, known for appearing in the film Uncut Gems, started a short-lived romance with the rapper, 46, who now goes by the name Ye.

Speaking to The Telegraph about her new memoir Down The Drain and her time spent with the celebrity musician, Fox said: People are like, Oh her relationship with Kanye put her on the map.

Julia Fox attending the premiere for The Idol during the 76th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France (Doug Peters/PA)

And its been really hard for them to see me as anything other than that.

Even having written this memoir, people still want to just talk about that.

Its really misogynistic. Its really dark.

But theres also a very long history of doing this to women, where the womans rank in society really came from the man she was married to.

And it just sucks because there are times where Im like, I just wish I never did it. Im so much more than that.

Fox said that her new book is, in part, a riposte to everyone who has underestimated me, because Ive been underestimated my entire life.

Discussing what unfolds in her memoir, which details her experiences with petty crime and drug use as a teenager, she said: Its only the tip of the iceberg If I wrote about every time I was arrested, every time I was hospitalised, I could have written a trilogy.

In the memoir, Fox simply refers to West as the artist, according to The Telegraph.

The pair had met on New Years Eve in Miami and were later pictured together attending the Tony Award-nominated Slave Play on Broadway.

West and Fox had been photographed together at multiple locations whilst they were dating, including at Paris Fashion Week where they both wore full denim outfits to the Kenzo Fall/Winter 2022/2023 show.

West, who was once married to the 43-year-old American socialite Kim Kardashian, has 24 Grammys to his name and three number one singles in the UK charts, according to the Official Charts Company.
A Belfast man who assaulted a paediatric ward sister in Altnagelvin Hospital in Londonderry has been jailed for six months.

John Straghan assaulted the senior nurse by pushing his forehead into her face and making grinding and spitting noises, Derry Magistrates Court was told.

Straghan (34), of no fixed abode, admitted committing the offence on July 9.

He also pled guilty to stealing medical equipment from the hospital and to attempting to cause criminal damage inside the ward by headbutting a wall and by throwing a monitor to the floor.

A solicitor for the Public Prosecution Service told District Judge Barney McElholm that the police receive a call at 11.30am on July 9 from a senior nurse who said the defendant had arrived at the hospital on multiple occasions before and on July 9.

On each occasion his behaviour towards staff members was aggressive and threatening and he refused numerous requests to leave the hospital.

The solicitor said on July 9, Straghan returned to the hospital and attempted to book an appointment giving false details. When he was refused treatment he verbally abused staff and other patients and refused to leave.

He ran into the paediatric ward where despite being requested to leave he refused to do so and instead he blocked the ward's exit doors.

When confronted by staff Straghan took his top off, swore at the staff members and headbutted the wall before throwing a monitor to the floor.

He was arrested but he could not be immediately interviewed because of his aggressive and violent behaviour while in custody, the prosecutor said.

A defence barrister said Straghan had long-term mental health issues and he'd gone to the hospital in an attempt to get help for them.

He is not someone who regularly goes to hospital to cause trouble. He has made contact with the community mental health team. He was living in a hostel in Derry at the time and he comes from the Belfast area.

He does not intend to return to Derry, he said.

Mr McElholm said I think that is wise and jailed Straghan for six months.
A Belfast woman has been ordered to stand trial for alleged involvement in a 21,000 money laundering operation.

Sinead Hamson (35) appeared at the citys Magistrates Court today charged with three counts of converting criminal property.

The case relates to allegations of acting as a so-called money mule by allowing a bank account to be used for illicitly obtained funds.

Hamson, of Iris Walk, is accused of converting sums of 9,261, 8,900 and 2,842 on three separate dates in August and September 2018.

During a preliminary enquiry hearing she confirmed that she understood the charges but declined to give evidence or call any witnesses at this stage.

No further details about the alleged offences were disclosed.

Defence barrister Sean OHare did not contest submissions that his client has a prima facie case to answer.

Granting the prosecutions application, District Judge Anne Marshall told Hamson: You will be returned to Belfast Crown Court for trial.

She was released on continuing bail and will appear in court again for arraignment on a date to be set.
A man accused of harassing a senior member of a health trust by erecting a poster containing her details in hospital grounds has been released on bail.

Gerard Scarlett (39) is alleged to have harassed a Western Health and Social Care Trust official based at the Altnagelvin Area Hospital and to have threatened her in an email, reading: I will make it my mission to destroy you.

At Derry Magistrates Court today, a police officer told District Judge Barney McElholm that the senior official was now terrified as a result of the alleged harassment by Scarlett.

Objecting to bail, the police witness said the defendant has a total of 255 previous criminal convictions in Northern Ireland, several of them for similar threatening behaviour.

Scarlett, from Glenabbey Drive, Derry, also has multiple criminal previous convictions in the Republic of Ireland, the court was told.

The officer said that since the beginning of March the defendant had sent numerous emails and letters to the official involved and the poster stated that she facilitated the removal of children around this city.

The poster also contained a reference to the officials husband, while in one of the emails the defendant stated, I will make it my mission to destroy you, the witness stated.

The police witness said the defendant made references to the hospital officials family and also stated that he knew where she lived. He said, in an attempt to defuse the situation, another senior trust official agreed to meet the defendant, but the meeting ended badly and did not go well.

The officer said the defendant was currently banned from the hospital and he believed the defendant would not adhere to any court-imposed bail conditions given his history of criminality, which included breaching court-imposed orders.

Defence barrister Eoghan Devlin said the defendant had recently been commended by a senior judge in a case where social services had failed him and his family and that is the cause of the animus between the parties. His bravery and dignity in that case were commended by the judge.

Mr Devlin said that at times the defendant can be his own worst enemy, but he said appropriate bail conditions could be imposed in the case.

The defendant was released on his own bail of 750, as well as with a surety of 750.

District Judge McElholm also banned Scarlett from entering the Waterside area of the city and ordered him to have no direct or indirect contact with the trust official.

District Judge McElholm warned the defendant that if he breaks any of his bail conditions he will be remanded into immediate custody.

The case was adjourned until November 23.
Paul Murphy (40) who pleaded guilty at Belfast Crown Court to dealing in cocaine and prescription drugs

A north Belfast man who today admitted dealing in cocaine and prescription drugs narrowly avoided being sent to prison.

Paul Murphy (40) was ordered by Judge Mark Reel to carry out 80 hours unpaid work and was given a two-year probation order for his drug-dealing activities.

The security man pleaded guilty at Belfast Crown Court to possessing cocaine and a large quantity of prescription drugs with intent to supply and also possessing an anabolic steroid.

Murphy, of Gainsborough Drive, further admitted a charge of possessing criminal property.

Prosecution barrister Philip Henry said that at around 3.35pm on October 21, 2020, police stopped Murphy's black BMW car on York Road in north Belfast for an unrelated motoring matter.

He appeared anxious and nervous to police so they searched his car and found a bag in the back seat.

Inside were 20 boxes of diazepam tablets, 30 boxes of Pregabalin and 1,100 other Class C drugs, said Mr Henry.

As a result, police searched his home and found drug dealing bags and 5,385 in cash.

The court heard that police also recovered 24.8 grammes of cocaine with a purity of 62%. In total, 45,000 Class C drugs were seized.

Mr Henry said that during police interviews Murphy made no comment to all questions.

Defence barrister Taylor Campbell said Murphy had an excellent employment record but sustained a significant injury earlier this year which caused difficulties with his mobility.

He told Judge Reel that the defendant had been attending a physiotherapist along with his doctor and is now fit to return to work in the next few days.

Mr Campbell added that Murphy lives with his partner and teenage daughter and requires a security licence for his work.

A pre-sentence report stated that he had no addiction issues with drugs or alcohol but did have a problem with gambling. He was assessed as a low likelihood of reoffending in the future.

Judge Reel described the defendant as a retailer selling to the public for commercial gain.

Saying the custody threshold had been passed as the offences are so serious they warrant a custodial sentence, Judge Reel said he had decided to deal with Murphy by way of a combination order made up of community service and probation.

However, the judge warned the defendant that if he breached any part of the combination order he would be brought back to court to resentenced.

The court granted a destruction order for all the drugs and the cash seized will be donated to an addiction charity.
Dame Arlene Foster says Sir Keir Starmer is under pressure from pro-Palestine members of the Labour Party (Photo: GB News)

Dame Arlene Foster has accused the Labour leader of bowing to growing pressure to support Palestine as she criticised the BBC for not calling Hamas a terrorist organisation.

The ex-DUP leader and former First Minister was speaking to GB News after Sir Keir Starmer met with party members including his own MPs to clarify his position on Israel and Gaza.

I very much welcome the fact that he gave clarity after that horrendous terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, she said.

He didnt try and contextualise it, he just called it out as a terrorist attack and I think a lot of people really welcomed that.

But since then there has been growing pressure, unsurprisingly given the fact that we have Jeremy Corbyn sitting on the back benches. Yes, hes no longer a Labour MP but he has a lot of friends in the party still the Jeremy Corbyn hangover is still very much there.

And theres still a lot of people who would have a lot more sympathy for Palestinians than they do for the Israeli state.

Sir Keir, who also met with Muslim Labour MPs in a bid to quell a backlash over his stance on Wednesday, previously appeared to suggest that Israel has the right to cut off power and water to Gaza, resulting in 23 councillors quitting the party.

During the LBC interview  in the wake of Hamas deadly attack in Israel  he was asked what a proportionate response would look like.

Sir Keir insisted that responsibility lies with Hamas and that Israel has the right to defend herself.

When asked if a siege is appropriate? the Labour leader said: I think that Israel does have that right. It is an ongoing situation.

He clarified that obviously everything should be done within international law adding but I don't want to step away from the core principles that Israel has a right to defend herself and Hamas bears responsibility for the terrorist acts.

Sir Keir later acknowledged the distress caused by his comments which have sparked anger among grassroots members and some with the Parliamentary party.

The opposition leader has sought to clarify his position insisting that he does not support the siege on over two million Palestinian residents.

This is now becoming very clear  and we had that meeting last evening and pressure being put on Keir Starmer to be different from the Prime Minister and to try and look like hes being more supportive of the Palestinians than he is of Israel, Dame Arlene said.

It shouldnt be a competition, lets be very clear.

We should have clarity around what has happened in Israel, what has happened in the Gaza Strip  then move on from that.

Before the meeting with party members, which has been described as constructive, Sir Keir clarified that he never meant Israel has the right to cut off water, food, fuel or medicines to Gaza.

A fresh row erupted following his visit to a mosque in South Wales where he repeated our calls for all hostages to be released, more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, for the water and power to be switched back on, and a renewed focus on the two-state solution.

The subsequent post on social media angered a number of worshippers who said it misrepresented our congregants and the nature of the visit.

Dame Arlene also called on the BBC to call Hamas terrorists after its director general Tim Davie appeared before the 1922 committee of Tory backbench MPs who expressed anger over the corporation's coverage of the conflict.

The BBC has faced criticism for its news coverage and in particular its decision not to refer to Hamas as terrorists without attributing the word to others using it.

I cannot for the life of me understand why they are digging in on this issue because it [Hamas] is a proscribed organisation in law  it is a terrorist organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000, Dame Arlene said.

I cannot understand why they have decided they cannot take sides.

No one is asking them to take side.

We are asking them to report factually what has happened and Hamas is a terrorist organisation in law in the UK  so why cant they just report that?
Its the busiest time of the year for Elliotts of Belfast as would-be vampires, ghouls and witches queue around the block to get their hands on a costume

Watch: Queues outside Elliotts Fancy Dress shop in Belfast as NI public get ready for Halloween

Its the place to go for costumes, with queues snaking down the street every Halloween  and this year is no different for Elliotts Fancy Dress Shop in Belfast.

It has been the go-to place for such outfits for 137 years.

And the business always keeps up with the latest trends, as pop culture often determines what will be popular at the time.

Boss Clark Elliott explained: Wednesday Addams is very popular at the minute and the Netflix series and social media have really pushed that along. Its essential for us to always keep an eye on whats trending.

The costume for DC Comics character Harley Quinn is also expected to fly off the racks, as well as those of convicts or cops.

Being so long-established, Elliotts has built up a healthy base of loyal customers.

Thats why we can have queues around the shop because people know we have exactly what they are looking for, added Clark.

Clark Elliott inside the shop. The business has been operating for 137 years

The business was established in 1886 by James Elliott and has been handed down the family line ever since.

Clark explained how it manages to compete and thrive over its larger competitors.

He said: People are quick to jump online to Amazon and go for the quick delivery, but they arent looking at the price.

We have been told that we are cheaper than Amazon and we continue to be very popular with people of all ages.

Weve had a lot of experience throughout the years. My father, who is a key part of the business, comes and helps and we always take on his advice.

Weve been able to survive a long time successfully because we change with the times.

For instance, we used to have books for people to flick through, but because the range of costumes has expanded so much, weve had to change to using iPads.

This time of year is the busiest for staff as would-be vampires, ghouls and witches come in seeking the prefect outfit  a certainty, as Elliotts stocks around 1,500 different costumes.

Theres also a range of more than 400 hats, 300 wigs and thousands of other accessories inside the deceptively diminutive store on Ann Street in the city centre.

Clark added: On the outside the shop looks small, but on the inside there are massive basements below, two rooms dedicated to hats and thousands of costumes.
The body of a man recovered from the Mourne Mountains on Tuesday night has been confirmed to be that of missing Portadown man Gareth Prideaux (41).

The father-of-three had been reported missing to police, who then prompted a large-scale search for Mr Prideaux, with the help of the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team (MMRT).

The rescue team, following a request for assistance from the PSNI, sent 12 members into the mountains, near Annalong, at around 7pm on Tuesday evening.

The operation was stood down just after 11pm.

Mr Prideaux passed away suddenly.

He lived at Glendinning Way in the Co Armagh town.

A funeral notice states that he was the devoted husband of Julie-Anne and a treasured father of Ashton, Tom and Jamie-Lee.

The home house strictly private. Family and friends will be made most welcome at Milnes Funeral Home on Saturday 4pm  6pm, the notice continues.

Funeral service on Wednesday at 12.30pm in Thomas Street Methodist Church, followed by a private cremation.

Family flowers only please, donations for the benefit the Royal British Legion and the Mourne Mountain Rescue Team via www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate or cheques made payable to Milne Funeral Services donations account c/o59 Seagoe Road, Portadown, BT63 5HS.

Very deeply regretted and sadly missed by the entire family circle.

Mr Prideaux served for five years in the British Army as an infantry soldier, both home and abroad, including in Afghanistan.

Upon returning to Northern Ireland, he then worked as a retail assistant before having many duties as a construction worker.

He most recently was employed as a medical laboratory assistant for the Southern Health and Social Care Trust.

Tributes have already poured in online for the young dad.

One co-worker said that Mr Prideaux had a unique ability to get a laugh and a smile out of people even on their bad days.

Paying a direct tribute to him, she continued: The joy you brought to lab life was infectious and you could lift the mood in any room. I will miss your playfulness and witty banter.

"Many happy memories are held in my heart and something I will forever treasure. I still cant believe this.

"Sending love and prayers to Julie- Ann, Ashton, Tom , Jamie- Lee and the family circle x

Another wrote: Gareth you were one of a kind & always made us laugh out loud anytime you walked into the lab. You will be sorely missed by us all in Craigavon. Words completely fail at this heartbreaking time.
Joe Kennedy III, the US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland, speaks at the official reopening of the new Students Union building at the Queens University, Belfast (Rebecca Black/PA)

Queens University in Belfast has been described as an incredibly special place by US special envoy Joe Kennedy III.

Mr Kennedy has been leading a delegation of senior US business and investment leaders on a four-day visit to Northern Ireland.

After taking part in a breakfast event with Stormont politicians at Titanic Belfast, he went on to Queens where he officially opened the new Students Union building.

He was reminded of a previous US investment in Northern Ireland with one of the DeLorean cars parked at the entrance as he arrived on Thursday morning.

While the car factory in west Belfast went out of business, the car itself was immortalised in the blockbuster hit Back To the Future.

This is an incredibly special place, Mr Kennedy said, describing the university as having become a bit of a home away from home for me over the last year.

Mr Kennedy also hailed the conference held at the university in April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement peace deal, at which he said so many recognised the extraordinary potential, opportunity, history and future of the people of Northern Ireland.

(Left-right) Hillary Clinton, Former US president Bill Clinton, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Akshata Murty and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar at Queens University for a conference in April (Niall Carson/PA)

That commitment is embodied in this building, Ive driven by it now a number of times over the course of the past several months, the contrast between this iconic monument that stands behind us, a landmark on this island and for Europe, he said, referring to the main university building across the road.

The glistening glass windows and the thriving life blood of this university that you can feel inside these walls.

It is an extraordinary testament to the past and the bright future that the students here represent.

Mr Kennedy also said he was particularly moved by a statue of George Mitchell, the chairman of the 1990s peace talks in Belfast and later chancellor of Queens University.

He said Mr Mitchell is a hero for those of us that serve in public office and public service in the United States.

Queens Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said that the new building has become a hub for students in Belfast with half a million people passing through its doors in the past year.

From the initial ideas to the finishing touches on the social staircase, it took thousands of hours and hundreds of people to bring this building to life, he said.

Every day, the building is buzzing with hundreds of students as they grab a coffee, plug in their laptops for some quiet reading, get some valuable support or grab a gig in the Mandela.

With almost 40,000 students provided with support from our Student Information Point over the past year and 200 each day getting support from the Pantry, One Elmwood has been a welcome and warm hub to many of our students, particularly during this particularly difficult financial time; and has become the go-to place for information, support, on the house breakfasts and free basic food.

One Elmwood has been a very stable port during some very choppy waters and we look forward to developing this wonderful building to continue to deliver for the needs of our students.
Maud with church members in the Democratic Republic of Congo during her recovery from being shot in 2015

Maud Kells at her home in Cookstown

A missionary from Co Tyrone who survived being shot by a bandit in the jungle of the Democratic Republic of Congo has now passed away at the age of 84.

Maud Kells spent five decades of her life providing maternity care to Congolese women, and working to build a hospital and nursery in the rainforest village of Mulita.

As a young woman, she trained as a nurse in Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital.

She arrived to the Congo as a missionary medic in 1968 at the age of 25.

Over half a century, she was involved in the training of Congolese nurses in five hospitals and 30 health centres.

She was also involved in the supervision of school and hospital construction projects, bible school teaching and church services.

Most recently, she was working as a missionary for the Worldwide Evangelisation for Christ (WEC) International mission agency.

The Cookstown native was shot in the African country in 2015 by a masked man in camouflage clothing who came to her Mulita home.

Four months later, she was awarded an OBE for "services to people in the Democratic Republic of Congo".

The bullet passed through Mauds ribs, narrowly missing a major blood vessel.

Maud with church members in the Democratic Republic of Congo during her recovery from being shot in 2015

She was airlifted to hospital and then flown back home to Cookstown to recover.

But following her recuperation, Maud returned to Africa and continued her aid work into her early 80s.

Despite being shot and wounded at the age of 75, the former midwife astounded many with her determination as she continued her selfless aid work.

Maud spent six months a year working in the village of Mulita since her first trip there in 2002.

She said she would make make her final visit to the war-torn country in 2019, without fear after she learned that the man who almost killed her had died.

That same year, the inspiring woman released a memoir, An Open Door: A True Story of Courage in the Congo.

However, her local church minister, the Rev Tom Greer from Molesworth Presbyterian Church in Cookstown, told BBC NI that her last visit to the Congo was just last year, when she brought funding and medicine to vulnerable people there.

Rev Greer also described her as a person of "tremendous courage".

She is also a former Belfast Telegraph Woman of the Year winner.

In an extract from her book, Maud recalled the night in 2015 when she was shot.

I had no fear. I was very conscious of God's presence surrounding me and the Holy Spirit's whisper that He was in complete control of the whole situation, she wrote.

While I was standing there with no physical help appearing, I thought, Lord, are you taking me now? I prayed my daily prayer whatever the situation: Forgive me, Lord, for anything I've done wrong. Then I added: I'm ready to go, Lord. But there are a few things I'd like to finish off on earth before I go.

Maud died peacefully at Antrim Area Hospital on Thursday, following a short illness.

She is survived by two sisters.

Her funeral is due to take place in Molesworth Presbyterian Church in Cookstown on Sunday.
Terrorist killer Haggarty repeats claim that his Special Branch handlers did not act on tip-offs

Forensic experts at the scene in north Belfast after Tommy English was shot dead in Octover 2000. Pic: Pacemaker

In his final day of evidence, a loyalist supergrass has again accused his RUC Special Branch handlers of not recording information he passed on that was linked to murders carried out by the UVF.

Gary Haggarty spent three days in the witness box being cross-examined about evidence he provided against James Stewart Smyth (57).

Smyth denies shooting dead workmen Eamon Fox (41) and Gary Convie (24) in May 1994.

They were on a building site at North Queen Street in Belfast when a terrorist opened up with a Sten machine-gun, killing them as they ate lunch in a car. Another man sitting in the back of the vehicle escaped injury.

Haggarty was yesterday questioned about an attack on senior UDA man Tommy English, later murdered by the UVF in 2000 during a feud.

Haggarty said he told his handlers Mark Haddock, Ronald Bowe and Darren Moore were responsible for the murder.

Mark Haddock

A previous court was told Haggarty had been recruited by the RUC as an informant after the UVF murder of Good Samaritan Sharon McKenna.

Ms McKenna was killed in January 1993 while visiting a Protestant pensioner at his Belfast home.

Operation Ballast, the Police Ombudsmans report into the outrage, named Informant 1, now known to be Haddock, as a key suspect. Haddock was arrested and questioned, but never charged.

Haggarty said he had no involvement in Ms McKennas murder, but was approached by Special Branch shortly afterwards and agreed to work for it.

In January 2010 Haggarty became an assisting offender, and admitted his role in hundreds of serious crimes, including five murders.

He served the required two years in prison under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement for pre-1998 offences.

For crimes committed after 1998, Haggarty received a 75% discount as an assisting offender despite the PPS deciding his evidence, without corroboration, would not be enough to meet the test for prosecution against 13 other suspects, including his two former Special Branch handlers, referred to in court as Handler A and B.

Among the murders he pleaded guilty to was that of John Harbinson in May 1997.

John Harbinson

He claimed Mr Harbinson was to be shot in the legs, but there was no intention to kill him.

On the night of the murder he said that, along with Haddock, Moore and Raymond McCord Jr, they abducted the victim from the Grove Taxis depot in north Belfast.

He was taken to an alleyway just yards from where Haggarty was living in Mount Vernon.

It was known locally as kneecap alley because so many so-called punishment attacks had taken place there.

Haggarty claimed while he and Haddock went to source a gun, Moore and McCord carried out a fatal assault on the victim.

Read more Supergrass trial: The masks are off but rule of law has already been undermined

He said Moore was jumping on him, while McCord was making a motion like he was kicking him.

Haggarty said: I turned Mr Harbinson onto his face in the recovery position. I maintain he was alive when I turned him over.

Defence barrister Michael Borrelli KC questioned how Haggarty had blood on him.

As I turned him, he coughed. He may have been dying. I cant say for certain.

He added: I told my handlers everything. They told me to get offside.

Both Haggarty and Haddock went on the run after the attack to a caravan in Portmuck in Co Antrim.

No one was ever charged with Mr Harbinsons murder. In November 1997 McCord was also murdered by the UVF.

Raymond McCord Junior

The Police Ombudsmans investigation, referred to multiple times during Smyths trial, found a number of informants had been involved in McCords murder.

Haggarty said: I definitely told them there was blood on Raymond McCords boots. I didnt play a role in the beating I didnt know he was dead.

On the night he said he stayed at the home of Billy McCartney, a loyalist life sentence prisoner, saying this was why there was a delay in calling his handlers.

Under questioning from Mr Borrelli, Haggarty was asked about pleading guilty to conspiracy to murder English.

He told the court he hit the UDA man with a bottle outside the Grove Tavern, but added if he had access to a gun he would have shot him.

During an earlier hearing Haggarty told the court he had previously observed at a railway line the test firing of the Sten gun used to murder Mr Fox and Mr Convie.

He claimed to have told his handlers about this and that an attack was being planned, but said he was not aware the workmen were to be the target until the morning of the shooting.

He also claimed to have told his handlers the location of Smyth, who was on the run after the murder of a man and attempted murder of his wife in Ballymena just weeks previously.

They knew where he was. He should have been immediately arrested, Haggarty told the court.

The defence claimed Haggarty named Smyth to protect Haddock and because he had been tasked with looking after the on-the-run loyalist, who was not part of his unit.

No, that wasnt the case, I gave his name because he perpetrated the shooting in North Queen Street, he responded.

When questioned about any animosity towards his former RUC handers, he replied: Special Branch doesnt come into my thoughts, I dont care about them.

He claimed: Special Branch routinely put names of people who werent involved down so it wouldnt lead back to those who did to throw suspicion away from those who did.

As both the defence and prosecution concluded their questioning of the former UVF man, Mr Justice OHara, who is hearing the case without a jury, said: Mr Haggarty, you can leave the witness box.

He replied thank you very much before being taken away.

The trial continues.
The Secretary of State yesterday refused to state whether the Government has been in negotiations with the EU over the Windsor Framework.

Chris Heaton-Harris instead told peers that goods are flowing smoothly into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK following the introduction of key provisions of the Windsor Framework.

He was giving evidence to the House of Lords Protocol Committee after a new green/red lane system came into effect for Northern Ireland imports at the beginning of October.

Goods to be sold in Northern Ireland now use a green lane with minimal paperwork and no checks.

He said: The Windsor Framework it came into operation practically with its first phase on October 1 and goods are flowing smoothly into Northern Ireland from Great Britain. There are new retailers who are using those freedoms and facilitations that the Windsor Framework has brought.

The DUPs Lord Dodds asked about progress on resolving issues of concern to the unionist community.

He said: In relation to legislation which you are working on: does the legislation alter the terms of the Windsor Framework and can you tell us whether you are in negotiations with the European Union at any level about changes to the substance of the framework or to its operation?

The Northern Ireland Secretary said he would not comment in public about ongoing talks.

Earlier, Mr Heaton-Harris insisted the Government's position on a border poll had not shifted as he sought to address controversial comments made by NIO Minister Steve Baker suggesting that a border poll should require a supermajority of voters.

The Good Friday Agreement states that a simple majority  often described as 50%+1  will determine a referendum on Irish unity.

Mr Heaton-Harris told MPs at the NI Affairs Committee that Mr Bakers suggestion during a session of the British-Irish Parliamentary Assembly on Monday should not be considered a shift in government policy.

Mr Bakers remarks had sparked concern in some quarters, with SDLP leader Colum Eastwood saying unionist votes cannot be worth more than anyone else's.

During Mondays session, Mr Baker recalled the close outcome of the Brexit referendum, saying he regretted there had not been not a threshold of 60% for the ballot in 2016.

But Mr Heaton-Harris said the Government is unwavering in commitment to all strands of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, not least the principle of consent.

He was also asked about the ongoing talks with the DUP aimed at restoring the power-sharing institutions at Stormont. He reiterated his view that the discussions are in their final phases, adding that they are in a much more positive space than they were previously.

SDLP committee member Claire Hanna asked about reforming Stormont so that one party cannot collapse the Executive.

Mr Heaton-Harris said the principle of consent is the DNA and the skeleton of the Good Friday Agreement and any changes to it would be best placed to come from elected politicians in Northern Ireland.
Young people have grown up in a divided society  they want change

The lack of good jobs in Northern Ireland compared to the opportunities available in Britain, the Republic, the US and Australia is a huge issue for young people here, according to new research.

Two surveys by the independent research think tank Pivotal show that our youth want more mixed housing and integrated education from an early age.

They identify drugs as a major problem with some claiming that the police dont give a s**t.

Read more We have obsessed over Windsor Framework and the sea border but our young people have different priorities

While drug-dealing is associated with paramilitaries and young people want these illegal organisations to go away, some young men in Belfast argue that paramilitaries deter anti-social behaviour and protect communities.

Around 100 young people took part in the surveys. They express concern regarding the rising cost of living with the minimum wage for 16-year-olds significantly lower than it is for adults.

On education, they called for a greater choice of GCSE and A level subjects, the opportunity to learn more practical things at school like budgeting, managing money, and how to start your own business. They also wanted more relaxed uniform rules.

Ann Watt, Pivotal

Pivotal director Ann Watt said: Young people are keenly aware that they have grown up in a divided society. They want that to change.

They are far from naive about how that might be achieved, and have quite clear ideas about what they want to see both in terms of residential and educational mixing.

They see drugs and paramilitarism as intertwined issues and want to see a lot more done to tackle both.

Drugs are seen as a problem that can harm the mental health of people that use them, and also create a more dangerous society in general.

Ms Watt added: When it comes to education, young people want more practical help to prepare them for the world beyond school.

They want positive relationships with teachers who see them all as individual people.

They are unimpressed with prospects in the local jobs market. This is seen as the number one reason why a young person would leave Northern Ireland. It is also clear that they wanted to be listened to  full stop.

Most of the young people interviewed live in single-community residential areas. They use different community centres, schools and shops from those on the other side of the divide.

They say this segregation is reinforced by symbols relating to the Troubles like murals, flags and peace walls.

They feel that this segregation is reinforced by their parents and other family members who feared that trouble could arise.

A 15-year-old girl from west Belfast says: My mummy and daddy would be really on edge if I was close to a Protestant area just in case something happened.

It would be the same the other way about: if a Protestant (came) up to Andytown their mummy and daddy would be a wee bit on edge.

While young people want more integration, some also express fear when visiting areas of a different community background from their own.

This fear is particularly acute among those who live in interface areas.
Secretary of State refuses to repeat misleading answer to Belfast Telegraph in Parliament  but still wont withdraw it

Chris Heaton-Harris seems to know hes seriously misled the public  but is careful not to repeat it in Parliament where it would be a major problem for his career

After misleading Belfast Telegraph readers, Secretary of State challenged in Parliament by Lord Dodds

Sam McBride Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 07:30

Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris has refused to repeat in Parliament his misleading claims to the Belfast Telegraph about the Windsor Framework  but has also refused to retract it.
Irish citizens have been advised to leave Lebanon by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening the department also advised against travel to Lebanon, citing a highly volatile situation.

Owing to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), the situation in Lebanon remains highly volatile, the statement read.

In light of the unpredictability of the situation, events could escalate with very little warning. This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon.

Citizens should be aware that, in the event that the political or security situation deteriorates, we are likely to be very limited in the assistance that we can provide.

Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable.

On Wednesday, the leader of Lebanons Hezbollah group held talks with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures.

The war between Israel and Hamas, now in its third week, has killed 1,400 people in Israel and more than 5,700 Palestinians in Gaza.

In that time, Hezbollah members have been exchanging fire with Israeli troops across the Lebanon-Israel border.

The DFA warned Irish people in the region to exercise extreme caution and to put contingency plans in place to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.

As there is no Irish Embassy in Beirut, Irish citizens in Lebanon who have not already done so are advised to register with the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo.

The DFA said that the security situation in Lebanon remains unstable and could deteriorate without warning, due to the events in Israel and the oPt, as well as economic and political crises, there is an increased risk of protests and demonstrations, which can quickly lead to violence.

The Lebanese Lira has lost 90% of its real value and restrictions have been placed on financial transactions and ATM withdrawals.

Lebanon is also experiencing electricity and fuel shortages, leading to power outages. Pharmacies and hospitals report shortages of medicines and medical equipment.
Irish woman shot dead in New York is ex-wife of former Castlereagh break-in suspect

US victim was married to chef cleared of wrongdoing over IRA raid

Larry Zaitschek was married to Denise Morgan who died in a suspected murder-suicide in New York

Staff Reporter Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 07:10

The Irish woman shot dead in an apparent murder-suicide in New York was the ex-wife of an American chef once suspected of involvement in the IRAs Castlereagh break-in.
The house in Mallow where Timothy O'Sullivan's body was discovered

The house in Mallow where Timothy O'Sullivan's body was discovered

The family of a man who lay dead and undiscovered in his Cork home for 22 years have called for a review of derelict house regulations after after the property where his body lay was boarded up.

Their plea came as an inquest in Cork returned an open verdict in the case of Timothy OSullivan (61).

His skeletal and mummified remains were found by council workers inspecting a derelict property on Beecher Street, Mallow, Co Cork, last January 13.

The OSullivan family said they believe no other family should have to endure what they went through.

Mr OSullivan, from Cahersiveen, Co Kerry, who grew up and worked in the UK, died some time between January 9 and January 23, 2001, but was not found for 22 years.

The house in Mallow where Timothy O'Sullivan's body was discovered

The time period for his death was determined by a dated Tesco shopping receipt, personal diary entries and the timing of his social welfare payment collections.

Cork County Council officials had attended the property nearly a decade earlier to board up broken windows and to investigate a complaint from neighbours about a rodent infestation, but had not entered the house.

Mr OSullivans sister, Noreen Foster, who lives in Australia, had called to the house in July 2003, but was told by neighbours and gardai it was believed Mr OSullivan had moved back to the UK.

Coroner Dr Michael Kennedy was told by assistant state pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster that no cause of death could be determined.

Mr OSullivan had to be identified by dental records.

Gardai recovered the equivalent of more than 8,000 in punts.

Dr Kennedy, in returning an open verdict, told the OSullivan family he will be writing to the relevant minister in respect of an urgent review of derelict property regulations.

Dr Kennedy said the OSullivan family might take some small comfort from the fact there was absolutely nothing suspicious about Mr OSullivans death.

In a statement read out to the inquest by solicitor Fiona OSullivan on behalf of Aidan Shine, a nephew of Mr OSullivan, and the entire OSullivan family, they called for an urgent review of derelict housing regulations in Ireland.

As a family, we acknowledge that we should have done more to locate our brother, they said. We bear the weight of our own regret for not being able to find him earlier and this is something we will carry with us always.

But the family said they believed more could also have been done by gardai and the local authorities.

We do not seek to lay blame, but rather to emphasise to all parties involved that more could have been done, they said. We also believe An Garda Siochana and the local authorities involved could have shown more care and due diligence in this matter.

The decision to board up the house without conducting internal checks highlights one of the many shortcomings in the current derelict property processes and surely concealed the truth about our brothers whereabouts for even longer.

We are deeply concerned that this tragedy may not be an isolated incident. In a nation with over 180,000 derelict properties we worry that similar cases could remain hidden. We firmly believe the current derelict housing legislation in Ireland is insufficient.

We advocate for a more compassionate, efficient and proactive system to prevent future events of this nature.

Mr OSullivan worked and married in the UK, but regularly returned to Kerry. Around 1989 he moved back to Ireland and bought the property in Mallow.

His mother died in January 1990 and his wife Barbara later returned to the UK where she was from. His sisters, Noreen and Maureen, were in regular contact with him, but neither heard from him at Christmas 2001.

The inquest was told Cork County Council was notified of broken windows at the Beecher Street property in December 2014. These were later boarded up by council workers.

A complaint was later received about a rodent infestation, but no access could be obtained by council staff.

Dr Kennedy was told the council was unable to ascertain the ownership of the property in terms of dereliction.

Last January 13, continuing rodent infestation concerns prompted the council to assign three workers, Paul ODonoghue, Mick Carroll and Eugene Cullinane, to go to the property to install a new front door lock so exterminators could deal with the problem.

It was decided to inspect the interior of the property, and Mr ODonoghue was shocked when he discovered a body lying in bed in a room just off the hallway.

Sergeant Eileen Kelly and Garda Siobhan Costello said a large quantity of documentation was recovered from the property including a diary, driving licence, birth certificate, passport, bank book and social welfare payment details.

Detectives also discovered that Mr OSullivan was cut off from his Job Seekers Allowance payment on January 23, 2001, by the Department of Social Protection after he had failed to collect his previous three payments.

In July 2003, Noreen Foster, his sister, visited Mallow with her family during an Irish holiday and called to the Beecher Street address.

She got no answer at the house  which was not yet boarded up  and was able to see through the windows that items were on the table but had clearly not been touched for some time.

With her family, she called to Beecher Street neighbours and a local pub where she was informed that it was believed her brother had moved back to the UK.

Mrs Foster then went to Mallow garda station, where she was told by gardai that it was also understood Mr OSullivan had moved back to England. The family did not file a missing-person report.
Shelves containing Irish records at the National Archive in Dublin (Julien Behal/PA)

The National Archives (NAI) in Dublin have been damaged after a leak was detected on the top floor of the building.

The leak was first flagged at the archives on Bishop Street on Wednesday morning.

Minister for culture Catherine Martin visited the site to assess the damage and said the National Archives were an extremely valuable state resource.

I would like to commend the staff at the NAI for their speedy management of the situation, she said.

The leak was detected at 7.20am and their emergency control plans were immediately activated.

Their own staff, their facilities management company, the Office of Public Works as well as electricians, plumbers and ICT specialists were on site since early this morning to ensure the situation was brought under control in a timely fashion.

She added: The National Archives is an extremely valuable State resource; and its collections are of great value to those researching the political, social and economic development of Ireland from the 18th century to the present day, as well as being of great use for family and local history research.

The department is committed to ensuring they are supported in any way to ensure their collections are secure for future generations.

Orlaith McBride, director at the National Archives, said staff and conservation teams have been on-site all day assessing the extent of the damage.

The special archival storage boxes and folders used by the National Archives are designed to withstand a high degree of water ingress; any damaged boxes from the affected areas have been removed to secure storage and are undergoing further examination.

We can confirm that Census 1926 records have not been affected.

Most of our records have already been moved off-site and are stored in secure storage elsewhere in anticipation of a major redevelopment project which is due to commence shortly.

The National Archives building will remain closed to the public until Tuesday October 31 to allow essential works to be completed.
McKenzie Prillaman in Nature:

An imbalance of fungi in the gut could contribute to excessive inflammation in people with severe COVID-19 or long COVID. A study found that individuals with severe disease had elevated levels of a fungus that can activate the immune system and induce long-lasting changes.

The work, published on 23 October in Nature Immunology1, raises the possibility that antifungal treatment could provide some relief to people who are critically ill with COVID-19.

We know inflammation is driving severe disease, says Martin Honigl, a clinical mycology researcher at the Medical University of Graz in Austria, who was not involved in the study. This work, he says, provides a potential mechanism of disease-causing inflammation that might have been overlooked.

More here.
Sinn Fein Stormont leader Michelle ONeill has again called for the return of the Stormont powersharing institutions (Liam McBurney/PA)

The momentum created by the visit of a US trade delegation to Northern Ireland should be the spur to restore the Stormont powersharing institutions, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill has said.

Following a meeting with the US business leaders in Belfast, Ms ONeill said she was determined that the Assembly should come back as a matter of urgency.

The delegation of business leaders, led by US special envoy Joe Kennedy, is carrying out engagements over several days across Northern Ireland.

US President Joe Biden promised the delegation when he visited Northern Ireland earlier this year.

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs Joe Kennedy III is leading the trade delegation (Liam McBurney/PA)

Political leaders met the business leaders in Belfast on Thursday.

Ms ONeill said it was vital to build on the momentum created by the trade visit.

She said: It is very clear there is certainly a sense of urgency.

The mood music has been very positive, we should build on that.

Clearly we want to be in our positions, being in the executive and actually meeting these people as first minister, as ministers around an executive table.

She added: I think it acts as a spur and it should act as a spur. The positivity and momentum that we can garner from this delegation is immense.

We have been speaking all week about the need for political stability. That has been welcomed by the political parties so the natural follow-through should be a restored executive.

I think the sense of urgency that everyone should feel right now is that this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Ms ONeill said she believed a deal to restore Stormont needed to be done in the next couple of weeks.

The Windsor Framework deal was struck by the EU and the UK earlier this year to reform the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol, which created internal UK trade barriers and led to the DUP collapsing the Stormont Assembly.

The unionist party has made clear it will not accept a return to devolution until the Government provides further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market.

The powersharing institutions cannot operate without the participation of the largest unionist party.

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said the British and Irish governments should enable the return of Stormont if the DUP will not return to the Assembly (Liam McBurney/PA)

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said if the DUP were not going to return to government, then the British and Irish governments should enable the return of Stormont.

She said: Im not going to be embarrassed on behalf of the DUP. I am ready to do my job.

It is up to others to allow us to do that. If it is not going to be the DUP going back into government then it needs to be the UK and Irish governments enabling those of us who are willing to go back into government to be able to do that.

She added: This is an incredible week, it is an incredible opportunity but imagine how much amplified that opportunity would be if we had a functioning executive and government at Stormont.

UUP leader Doug Beattie said Northern Ireland needed political stability (Liam McBurney/PA)

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie said it was embarrassing to be meeting the business leaders without a functioning government in Northern Ireland.

He added: We need political stability. Political stability will help support our businesses and those businesses will support our economy and our economy will support our people.

It is a no-brainer for me. I think we will get there but I wish we were there now.

He added: From those on the outside looking in, the US delegation, they are looking at us and saying why dont you just get this sorted because it is clear that we are going to end up with the government, so why dont you just do it now?

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said the DUP needed to show political courage and return to Stormont (Liam McBurney/PA)

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said it was time for political courage from the DUP to bring powersharing back.

He said: I have been calling for the DUP to go back into government since the day they left. I dont think this ever solves any problems. The Windsor Framework is a good deal out of a very bad Brexit.

I do think we are moving in the right direction around the formation of a government. The bottom line is there is very little left to talk about. We know the shape of the Windsor Framework, we know there are ways of dealing with some of these problems.

We also know that businesses are telling us there has been a very smooth operation of these new arrangements. I dont think there is much left to argue about. Now is the time for political courage.
A woman has been found guilty of handing over a three-year-old British girl for female genital mutilation (FGM) during a trip to Kenya in a legal first.

Following an Old Bailey trial, Amina Noor, 39, was convicted of assisting a non-UK person to carry out the procedure overseas 17 years ago.

This is the very first conviction of its kind under the FGM Act of 2003 and carries a maximum sentence of 14 years.

To date, the only other successful prosecution was in 2019 when a Ugandan woman from Walthamstow, east London, was jailed for 11 years for cutting a three-year-old girl.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino hailed Noors conviction saying: This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about whats actually happened to them.

It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesnt matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.

She added: Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, its often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of whats happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.

Mr Justice Bryan thanked jurors for sitting on a case which they may have found emotional.

He granted Noor conditional bail ahead of her sentencing at the same court on December 20.

Previously, prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said Noor had travelled to Kenya with the girl in 2006, and while there took her to a private house where the child was subjected to FGM.

The crime only came to light years later when the girl was aged 16 and confided in her English teacher at school.

When spoken to, the defendant said she thought the procedure was just an injection and afterwards the girl was happy and able to run around and play.

But when examined in 2019, it emerged that in fact the girls clitoris had been completely removed.

Noor appeared shocked and upset and said that was not what she thought was going to happen.

According to an initial account, Noor described going with another woman to a clinic where the girl was called into a room for a procedure.

The defendant said she was invited in but refused because she was scared and worried.

Afterwards, the girl appeared quiet and cried the whole night and complained of pain, according to the account.

In a later police interview under caution, Noor denied that anyone had made threats against her before FGM was done to the girl.

Ms Heer said: She was asked whether, when she arrived at the clinic or even before then, she felt she did not want it to happen.

She said, Yeah I thought about it but then, you know, got it done.

Jurors were told the defendant was born in Somalia and moved to Kenya at the age of eight during the civil war in her home country.

She was aged 16 when she came to the United Kingdom and was later granted British citizenship.

The defendant described what had been done to the girl as Sunnah, meaning tradition or way in Arabic, and said it was a practice that had gone on for cultural reasons for many years.

Ms Heer agreed it was widespread and everyone had it done in the defendants community.

However, that very common practice is not limited to piercing or pricking.

In fact, 87% of women and girls who had undergone FGM in Kenya had their genitalia cut, with some flesh removed, she said.

The court was told that 94% of females of Somali origin living in Kenya undergo the procedure, according to United Nations figures.

Ms Heer said there was no dispute that the girl had been subjected to FGM outside the UK by a Kenyan lady, nor that the alleged victim was a UK citizen.

She alleged Noor had encouraged and assisted in the offence and cast doubt on her claim that she only expected the girl to be pricked to draw blood.

Ms Heer said: Not only was the procedure carried out upon (the girl), the excision of the clitoris, a very common type of FGM, but the defendant had been discussing precisely the kind of FGM before she took (the girl) to that clinic.

The prosecutor told jurors: You will wish to consider the defendants behaviour at the time and whether she genuinely did not want (the girl) to be circumcised.

After all, it does not appear that she ever refused.

It is striking that she asked no questions when the clinic turned out to be a normal house.

She did not inquire whether the people were doctors, or that they were qualified to do what they were supposed to do.

She did not insist on being present when (the girl) was called into the treatment room.

She did not talk to the Kenyan lady about what procedure would be carried out.

After the event, she did not look at (the girls) wound and said (she) did not appear to be in pain.

Given what we know had been done to (the girl), can that be true?

Or has the defendant sought to minimise her responsibility?

Giving evidence in her trial, Noor, from Harrow, north-west London, said she was threatened with being cursed and disowned within her community if she did not take part.

She told jurors the threat gave her pain, and added: That was a pressure I had no power to do anything about.

The alleged victim, who is now aged 21, cannot be identified for legal reasons.

Jaswant Narwal, CPS national lead for honour-based abuse, female genital mutilation and forced marriage, said: We are clear there is no place for this unacceptable practice in society.

We will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to safeguard and support victims of FGM and bring perpetrators to justice.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said FGM is a serious crime, child abuse and a human rights violation.

In a statement outside court, he said: I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to, to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.
The UK has backed calls for a humanitarian pause as Israel continues to bombard Gaza (Ali Mahmoud/PA)

Ministers will attend a Cobra meeting later on the Middle East, after the Government joined calls for a humanitarian pause in the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said he would be chairing the meeting later, as global attention remains fixed on the crisis in Gaza.

It comes after Rishi Sunak said temporary breaks or specific pauses in the violence could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed and aid to be provided to the Gaza Strip.

The Government has continued to back Israels right to defend itself, with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps saying an expected ground invasion would fall under the countrys right to defend itself as long as the action targeted Hamas.

Israeli military said that troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, saying it was in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion.

Benjamin Netanyahus government is continuing to pummel the small strip of land, which is home to more than two million Palestinians.

Mr Dowden said that the Cobra meeting would be bringing together representatives from the relevant Government departments.

This is the way of bringing different bits of Government together to understand what further steps we can do and to assess the current situation.

We will discuss the hostages and the wider situation in the region and will also discuss securing humanitarian aid.

It is about ensuring we have cross-governmental ministerial grip on this situation.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden will chair the meeting (Victoria Jones/PA)

The Government is continuing to resist calls for a ceasefire, with the backing for a humanitarian pause supported by Labours Sir Keir Starmer.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a cessation of violence, as five UK nationals remain missing, some of whom are believed to be hostages in Gaza.

Mr Dowden would not be drawn on how long any such pause might last.

He told Times Radio that a pause would be different to a ceasefire, which is a total cessation of hostilities, which I dont think recognises properly the situation that Israel finds itself in, in respect of this attack from Hamas which has to be dealt with by Israel.
An Israeli armoured personnel carrier moves near the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel (Tsafrir Abayov/AP)

Israeli troops and tanks launched an hours-long ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating air raids.

The raid came after the UN warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamass bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the conflict earlier this month.

Deputy Hamas chief Saleh al-Arouri said that despite the enemys crimes  the resistance is well, referring to the groups military wing and allies.

The statement on Thursday came after intense overnight Israeli strikes in the besieged Gaza Strip ahead of the expected ground invasion.

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday (Mohammed Dahman/AP)

It (Hamas and militant groups) will turn your tragedies into joy, in the event of a ground invasion the Beirut-based top Hamas official said in a statement addressed to Palestinians in Gaza shared by the Palestinian groups media office in Beirut.

Mr Al-Arouri met the leader of Lebanons Hezbollah group, Hassan Nasrallah, and the head of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Ziad al-Nakhleh on Wednesday. The leaders reached an agreement on next steps in the current sensitive situation, according to a statement shared by Hezbollah.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said that any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day.

The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to UN figures.

Palestinians inspect the damage of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City (Abed Khaled/AP)

Irans foreign minister said Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel but that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the UN General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavour, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 still held captive.

Mr Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against the Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime.

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

The Israeli military says it strikes only militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely populated Gaza. Palestinian militants have fired rocket barrages into Israel since the war began.

During the overnight raid, the military said soldiers struck fighters, militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions. There were no immediate reports of casualties on either aide.

Meanwhile, an airstrike hit a residential building in the southern town of Khan Younis early Thursday.

Ambulances streamed into the nearby Nasser Hospital, but there was no official word on casualties. Family members said the building had housed 75 people, including 25 displaced relatives.

Israel said it had carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gazas population has also been running out of food, water and medicine. About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into UN shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south, saying those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

A Palestinian firefighter extinguishes a fire in a destroyed building following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City (Abed Khaled/AP)

In recent days, Israel let more than 60 trucks with aid enter from Egypt, which aid workers say is insufficient and only a tiny fraction of what was being brought in before the war. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

An official with the International Committee of the Red Cross said it hopes to bring in nearly a half dozen trucks filled with vital medical supplies.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean if you will, given the severity of the consequences of the violence in the last two and a half weeks, said William Schomburg, head of the sub-delegation in Gaza.

Today, we are looking at eight to 10 trucks coming in. We have more that are lined up, he said. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organisation said.

A building in the Maghazi refugee camp in Deir Al-Balah destroyed by the Israeli bombardment (Hatem Moussa/AP)

The conflict has also threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said Wednesday it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Strikes in Syria also hit the airports of Aleppo and Damascus, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Lebanese state media said Israel conducted airstrikes and drone attacks early on Thursday in southern Lebanon, near the tense Israel-Lebanon border.

No casualties were reported but the strikes ignited fires in the fields near in the border town of Aita al Shaab, the National News Agency (NNA) reported.

On Wednesday night, Israeli strikes hit the Tyre district and a mattress factory there, NNA said, while small-arms fire was exchanged between militants and Israeli troops along the border.

Hamass surprise rampage on October 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech on Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened, he said. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

On Wednesday, the wife, son, daughter and grandson of Wael Dahdouh, a veteran Al-Jazeera correspondent in Gaza, were killed in an Israeli strike.

Mr Dahdouh and other mourners attended the funerals on Thursday wearing the blue flak jackets used by reporters in the Palestinian territories.

Later on Thursday Hungarys foreign ministry said two Israeli-Hungarian children are among the more than 200 hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The children, both dual Hungarian citizens, are 15 and eight years old, and were reportedly taken from the home of their father in a kibbutz near the border with Gaza during Hamass raid in southern Israel.

The ministry had previously said that 15 Hungarian citizens were in Gaza, but had not reported that any were there as hostages.
North Korean and Russian flags at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the city of Blagoveshchensk in the far eastern Amur region, Russia (Vladimir Smirnov, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

South Korea, the US and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia.

On Thursday they said such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the US and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent US claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the US and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties.

Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un travelled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The US, South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear programme in exchange for its munitions supply.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, left, and Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov greet each other during a meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea (Russian Foreign Ministry Press Service via AP)

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine.

After returning to Moscow, Mr Lavrov dismissed the US accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone.

I dont comment on rumours, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the US. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Mr Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites.

Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Koreas Unification Ministry said on Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the Norths main launch facility.

In response to North Koreas growing nuclear capability, the US and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, US and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training.
Analysts are warning of violence at a massive opposition rally planned for Dhaka this weekend, with a senior city official ordering ruling party activists to bring clubs to protect democracy during the demonstration.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has been planning the Saturday protest in central Dhaka for months to demand yet again that the government step aside for an election expected in January.

The demonstration is expected to draw hundreds of thousands from across the country, in what could be the final one staged by the BNP this year as part of a campaign of street protests to demand that Prime Minister Shiekh Hasina resign to make way for a neutral caretaker administration to oversee the polls.

Hasinas government, which has been in power for the past 14 years, fears the rally could turn into a sit-in aimed at overthrowing it, and police have not yet granted a permit for it. Up until now, her Awami League party has refused to give in to BNPs demands.

Awami has announced a counter rally about a mile away and has threatened to take a hardline stance if necessary.

I will be with you on the street on Oct. 28, Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, an Awami League leader and Dhaka South City Corp. mayor, told party members during a planning meeting in Dhaka on Wednesday.

As we defended democracy on Oct. 28 [2006] with sticks and oars, we will defend democracy on this Oct. 28.

Lately, the U.S. and other Western countries have been pressing Hasinas government to ensure that free and fair elections without voter intimidation take place in the South Asian nation.

Awami League supporters chant slogans at a rally organized to counter a BNP gathering on the same day in Dhaka, July 28, 2023. [BenarNews]

On Oct. 28, 2006, ahead of the countrys eighth general election, the Awami League  the main opposition party at the time  carried out an attack using sticks and oars against the faith-based political party Jamaat-e-Islami that killed at least five people, including four Jamaat activists.

Oars are part of the Awami partys emblem, which is symbolized by a boat.

On the 28th, we need to bring thick sticks ... along with signs. All our activists know where BNPs people are staying, Sheikh Bazlur Rahman, who heads the Awami League unit in Dhaka, ordered activists during the same meeting.

Inciting violence

Political analysts who BenarNews spoke to said they feared potential violence on Saturday based on statements made by political leaders.

Professor Abul Kashem Fazlul Haq said concerns had arisen because politicians have not found a solution through dialogue.

Parties should avoid violence, he told BenarNews.

A leader of Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik, a civil society group, urged the parties to find a peaceful solution.

Those in power are inciting violence  the language they speak is making violence imperative. Its a terrible situation, Badiul Alam Majumdar told BenarNews.

BNP rejected a call from police to find an alternative venue for its rally on Oct. 28.

The Awami League rejected a similar call by police to move what it is calling a peace and development rally on the same day.

The ruling partys rally is scheduled for the south plaza of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in the Gulistan area while BNP members plan to gather in front of the partys Naya Paltan headquarters, about two km (1.2 miles) away.

Jamaat, meanwhile, has been denied its request by the government to hold its own rally in the Bangladeshi capital.

Arrests accelerate

Ahead of Saturday, police have been arresting BNP leaders and activists, party officials complain.

Police are conducting raids at homes of our leaders across the country to create fear, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, BNP senior joint secretary general, told reporters on Thursday.

The BNP central office said at least 830 people had been arrested during the last week. Khairul Kabir Khokon, BNPs joint secretary general, was taken into custody by detectives on Thursday morning.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) said the number was lower, noting that at least 311 BNP leaders and activists had been arrested between Oct. 21 and 25.

Rizvi alleged that police had stepped up their arrests ahead of the planned rally.

Bangladesh police search vehicles along the Dhaka-Aricha highway near Jahangirnagar University in Savar, Dhaka, ahead of planned Saturday rallies by the nations biggest political parties, Oct. 26, 2023. [BenarNews]

One man, Mosharraf Hossain, was arrested in Dhakas Darussalam area Wednesday night.

His wife, Asma Akhtar, appeared in Dhakas court area on Thursday to search for him.

There is no case against my husband. His crime is that he does BNP politics, she told BenarNews.

Other relatives of arrested BNP activists gathered in front of the Dhaka district and metropolitan courts as they sought information on their loved ones.

Tension increases

During a press conference in Dhaka, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader threatened retaliation, if necessary, on Saturday.

If the BNP comes to attack us, then we will not sit quietly. If the peace rally is attacked, our activists will not sit idle. A counterattack must happen, Quader said.

The statement drew a rebuke from the opposition party.

The Awami League is spreading unnecessary tension over the peaceful rally of the BNP. They want a violent situation in the country, said Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, a member of BNPs standing committee.

It is clear from the behavior of the government that they are afraid of the peoples movement, he told BenarNews.
The International Court of Justice has extended two deadlines for written arguments in a complaint filed by the West African nation of Gambia alleging that Myanmars military carried out genocide against minority Rohingya Muslims.

The Muslim-majority nation  mainland Africas smallest country  accused Myanmar of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention during a military campaign in 2017, during which thousands of Rohingya are estimated to have died.

The Hague-based court on Oct. 16 said that the Gambia can wait until May 16, 2024, to submit its pleadings in the case, while the junta regime has until Dec. 16, 2024, to submit its rejoinder.

The deadlines have previously been extended several times by the court, which is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

The Rohingya are frustrated that they have to wait for so long, year after year, to get a solution for the crimes committed by the Myanmar military, said Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch.

I hope this is the last delay, he said. The court needs to stop granting the Myanmar military every time it asks for extension of time.

Alleged atrocities

The Myanmar militarys alleged atrocities against Rohingya included indiscriminate killings, mass rape and village torchings as more than 740,000 fled across the border to Bangladesh.

The crackdown occurred during the tenure of the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi, who personally defended the military against allegations of genocide at the ICJ in December 2019.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner and one-time democracy icon now languishes in prison  toppled by the same military in a February 2021 coup detat.

In February 2022, the National Unity Government, formed by former Myanmar lawmakers who operate as a shadow government in opposition to the military junta, said they recognized the authority of the ICJ to decide if the campaign against Rohingya constituted a genocide, and would withdraw all preliminary objections in the case.

The same year, in July, the ICJ rejected all of the juntas objections to the case, clearing the way to consider the factual evidence against Myanmar, a process that could take years.

Ro Anamul Hasan, a Rohingya teacher living in one of the refugee camps in Bangladesh, believes the junta is delaying the ICJ trial while it moves forward with a plan to repatriate some Rohingya refugees under a small pilot project.

The junta is buying time for pilot repatriation, he told Radio Free Asia. They think that if pilot repatriation happens, the seriousness of the crime in the ICJ case will be reduced.

Seven years of waiting

A Rohingya woman, who did not want her identity revealed for the story, told RFA that the delays in the case are frustrating for her.

It has been seven years of relying on them and waiting for a solution, she said. Life in the refugee camp where we live is getting worse day by day.

NUG spokesman Nay Phone Latt told RFA on Tuesday that the longer the delay in getting justice, the bolder the perpetrators become.

RFAs calls to junta spokesman Major Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment on the extensions went unanswered.

The Rohingya, whose ethnicity is not recognized by the junta regime, have faced decades of discrimination in Myanmar and are effectively stateless. Myanmar administrations have refused to call them Rohingya and instead use the term Bengali.

Myanmar faces other lawsuits, including one filed in 2019 in Argentina under the principle of universal jurisdiction, and an authorization by the International Criminal Court to investigate crimes against humanity over the alleged forced deportation of the Rohingya.

The Gambias complaint, also brought in 2019, was filed on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Radio Free Asia (RFA), a news service affiliated with BenarNews, produced this report.
President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese walk along the White House Colonnade toward the Oval Office for a meeting at the White House in Washington, Oct. 25, 2023.

U.S. President Joe Biden met with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House on Wednesday, telling reporters he was not worried about Canberras apparently warming relations with China because the United States itself was seeking a thaw in ties.

Albanese is making his first official trip to Washington since being elected in May 2022, after being invited by Biden in May of this year after the U.S. president canceled a trip to Sydney to negotiate an increase in the debt ceiling with Republicans.

But the Australian leader made a surprise announcement just before boarding his plane to the United States over the weekend: From Nov. 4-7, Albanese told reporters at the airport, he would visit Shanghai and Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

At a press conference after their meeting Wednesday, Biden said he was not worried by Albaneses planned trip, estimating he had traveled more than 70,000 miles (about 112,000 km) in his own lifetime for meetings with Xi, starting with when they were both vice presidents.

I have met with Xi Jinping more than any other world leader has, the American president said. Ive had over 68 hours of private meetings, just he and I, with simultaneous interpreters, starting back when I was vice president.

But he added some advice for the Australian prime minister in his dealings with the Chinese leader at the end of next week.

Trust, but verify is the phrase, Biden said, using a Russian proverb made famous by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

Cooperate where we can

Biden administration officials had in the lead-up to Wednesdays meeting played down the importance of Albaneses last-minute announcement, painting his plans as the same as ongoing U.S. efforts at a thaw.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby, on Tuesday, noted to reporters that Foreign Minister Wang Yi was visiting Washington this week ahead of an expected trip by Xi to San Francisco in mid-November for a meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

We fully support and understand that the prime minister wants to meet President Xi and travel to Beijing, he said, adding that four Biden administration officials had recently made the trip. Conversations with the Chinese and keeping lines of communication open is very important.

Albanese, for his part, told reporters at the White House that Australia accepted that the United States and China were vying for influence, but said that did not mean Australia could only speak with U.S. leaders.

We have strategic competition in our region. Thats a fact that we are living with, he said, explaining that his governments approach to Australias relationship with China was to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, but engage in our national interest.

Albanese said it was in the interests of Australia, China and the world for the two countries to have a relationship where there is dialogue.

But he reiterated that Australia stood with the United States against Chinas vast sovereign claims to Taiwan and the South China Sea.

That is Australias position, he said. We cooperate very much with the United States on those matters, and on others, and I look forward to a constructive dialogue when I visit Shanghai and Beijing.

AUKUS

The two leaders also stressed that the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States was not meant to constrain Chinas rise. Biden said Xi had personally asked him, when the deal was announced last year, if that was the aim of the pact.

I said No, were not surrounding China, were just making sure that the sea lanes remain open, he said. Thats what this is all about.

Albanese is himself scheduled to attend meetings on Capitol Hill on Thursday, as the Australian government tries to ensure legislative bills to enable the AUKUS pact passes Congress amid some criticism.

American lawmakers in both the House and in the Senate have openly opposed key parts of the AUKUS deal, including the sharing of sensitive U.S. defense technology and the sale of nuclear submarines to Canberra amid massive backlogs in shipbuilding yards.

Democrats, including the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Gregory Meeks of New York, say they are worried that removing limits on the sharing of defense technology with Australian companies could create a target for Chinese espionage.

For the most part, Republicans say Australia is already trusted to handle U.S. intelligence secrets under Five Eyes. But other Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about selling nuclear submarines abroad when the U.S. Navy itself is struggling to acquire enough.

The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Missouri departs Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Sept. 1, 2021. [Amanda R. Gray/U.S. Navy via AP]

Albanese said he was not worried about the bills being held up, explaining that he trusted Bidens assurances Congress would pass legislation he said was also in the interest of the United States.

Im very confident in the discussions that Ive had with Democrats and Republicans that there is very broad support for the AUKUS arrangements, and that there will be support for the legislation, he said. I regard the United States as a very reliable partner.

I believe it will get done, Biden added.

B-52s

Before meeting with Biden, Albanese on Monday hosted Microsoft President Brad Smith at the Australian Embassy in Washington, with Microsoft announcing it would invest AU$5 billion (about US$3 billion) in artificial intelligence and cloud computing technology in Australia.

Albanese and Biden also announced a deal to lay submarine cables to help keep Pacific nations connected to high-speed Internet, and a deal to help connect the Pacific to international banking infrastructure.

On Wednesday night, Biden is scheduled to host Albanese for a dinner at the White House. The new wave band the B-52s had been slated to perform, but were replaced with a military band at the last minute.

Jill Biden said on Tuesday that the B-52s, famous for their hit Love Shack, would still attend the dinner as guests, but would not play their upbeat music given that so many are facing sorrow and pain, an apparent reference to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Radio Free Asia (RFA), a news service affiliated with BenarNews, produced this report.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks at a press conference on the sidelines of the Third Belt and Road Forum at the media center in Beijing, Oct. 18, 2023.

UPDATED at 5:50 p.m. EDT on 2023-10-26

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Washington on Thursday for talks expected to pave the way for U.S. President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to meet in San Francisco next month.

Its the first by a Chinese foreign minister to the United States since before the COVID-19 pandemic and comes more than four months after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Beijing as part of an effort to thaw increasingly frosty ties between the two powers.

Three other U.S. cabinet-level officials  Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and climate envoy John Kerry  have visited Beijing since.

Wang, who had an open invitation to Washington, is the first Chinese official to make the return trip.

He is expected to have dinner with Blinken on Thursday evening.

Blinken told the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday that the two diplomats would discuss, among other things, how to stop the Israel-Hamas conflict from growing and spreading throughout the Middle East.

Speaking alongside Wang prior to their dinner, Blinken said he was pleased to welcome him to the United States and that he looked forward to constructive conversations over the next few days.



In English, a surprised Wang noted that Blinkens comment was brief.



He then said as two major countries, China and the United States needed to return to a healthy, stable relationship, and ignore jarring voices in both countries and instead try to talk together again.



We have disagreements, we have differences. At the same time, we also share important common interests, and we face challenges that we need to respond to together, the Chinese foreign minister said. Therefore, China and the United States need to have dialogue.

On Friday, Wang is also expected to meet Biden at the White House after a scheduled meeting with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, with whom he met in Malta on Sept. 16 and 17 en route to Moscow.

Wang was previously Chinas foreign minister from 2013 to 2022 but returned to the role in July after the ouster of his successor, Qin Gang, amid rumors of an affair with a U.S.-based Chinese TV presenter.

Groundwork laid

The visit comes ahead of next months meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco, which Xi is reportedly set to attend in what would only be his third trip abroad this year, after visits to Moscow in March and Johannesburg, South Africa, in August.

If Xi attends, it will be the first opportunity for Biden and Xi to talk face-to-face since their high-profile meeting in November last year at the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, which was their first meeting since Biden took office.

Last month, Xi skipped both the G-20 meeting in New Delhi and the U.N. General Assembly in New York.

Chinas President Xi Jinping attends the plenary session during the 2023 BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, on August 23, 2023. [Gianluigi Guercia/Pool via Reuters]

American officials have appeared at pains this year to show the world they are trying to improve relations with Beijing after 12 months of mounting tensions over Taiwan, the South China Sea, microchips and an alleged Chinese spy balloon that was found floating over the United States.

But Biden himself has appeared less married to the prospect of thawed relations, calling Xi a dictator shortly after Blinkens visit to Beijing and often alluding to the enormous problems in Chinas economy.

That has continued even in the run-up to a possible Xi meeting.

During a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday, Biden said China was facing internal and external difficulties right now causing it to engage in intimidation.

Just this past week, PRC vessels acted dangerously and unlawfully as our Philippine friends conducted a routine resupply mission within their own exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, Biden said, using an acronym for the Peoples Republic of China.

I want to be clear, I want to be very clear: The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad, he said.

U.S. President Joe Biden toasts with Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during an official State Dinner at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. [Jonathan Ernst/Reuters]

Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning replied that Biden should stay out of a dispute she said was between Beijing and Manila.

The U.S. is not a party to the South China Sea issue and has no right to interfere in the issue between China and the Philippines, Mao said.

Conciliatory tone

Still, relations between Washington and Beijing appear on the mend.

Before flying out to Washington, Wang attended a meeting in Beijing between Xi and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, with both leaders speaking about the importance of improving U.S.-China ties.

Newsom told reporters he was in Beijing with hopes of turning the page, of renewing our friendship and re-engaging [on] foundational and fundamental issues that will determine our collective faith in the future.

Xi also sent a conciliatory letter to the annual dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations in New York on Wednesday night.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Xi said that whether China and the United States can find a right way to get along with each other bears on world peace and development and the future of humanity.

China is ready to work with the United States, in the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, the letter said, and wants to properly manage differences, jointly address global challenges, and help each other succeed and prosper together to the benefit of both countries as well as the world.

But the idea of a thaw has not been welcomed by all in Washington.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul and committee member Young Kim on Wednesday issued their own joint letter condemning the Chinese foreign ministers visit.

The Chinese government has become increasingly aggressive since Wangs last trip to Washington in 2019, the two Republican lawmakers wrote, and Beijing had made clear that it is an unreliable partner.

During its meetings with Wang Yi, the Biden administration should not fall for false promises but demand deliverables such as releasing Americans taken hostage in China, stopping the export of fentanyl precursors, and halting its military expansionism, the letter said.

Radio Free Asia (RFA), a news service affiliated with BenarNews, produced this report. This report has been updated to add comments by the Chinese foreign minister after his arrival in Washington.
Oded Naaman in the Boston Review:

It is now 1 p.m., Wednesday, October 18, and I am at home, in Tel Aviv. Eleven days have passed since the October 7 attack on Israel. At least 1,400 people were killed in one day, mostly civilians, and there are around 200 Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Israel has since launched its deadliest attack on Gaza so far: around 3,500 Gazans have been killed, about 1,000 of them children. Hamas still manages to fire rockets at Israel, mostly toward towns closer to Gaza, but some toward Tel Aviv. Every evening, between 7 and 9 p.m., sirens go off and we run to find shelter. During the day we can sometimes hear unidentified explosions in the distance. There are many ambulances and police sirens; helicopters and fighter jets pass overhead, and theres a constant sound of drones hovering over the city, to what purpose we do not know. Most stores are closed shut. Many restaurants and cafes have been transformed into supply centers from which food and equipment are delivered by volunteers across the country to soldiers, to survivors of the attack, and to residents from towns that have been evacuated. At night, a few bars open. They are half empty, the patrons drink and speak softly. In normal days, the city is packed and vibrant till late into the night. Around midnight, I go out to the balcony or take a stroll in the vacant streets. Everywhere the quiet is breathless.

In this land, nothing is very far. A leisurely drive from Tel Aviv to Gaza City, if it were possible, would take about one hour. By the end of this week, in the span of fourteen days, a total of 5,000 peopleIsraeli and Palestinianwill have died, many more lives will have been ruined beyond repair, horror, panic and hatred will have been instilled in masses of people, not only here, in this small land, but across the globe. Darkness behind us, darkness ahead.

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As more and more of the national and international news seems to be increasingly depressing and alarming, I imagine that many of you, like myself, might be looking for solace wherever you can find it. It might be losing yourself in the spirit of the upcoming Halloween celebrations, or it might be just sitting quietly and reading a pleasant book. Whatever your source of comfort may be, I totally understand. A little self-soothing goes a long way sometimes.

For me, solace is found in the company of my feathered friends who visit the feeders on my deck. The regular reader will be no stranger to my delight at having chickadees land on my head while I sit and enjoy the quiet of the meadow by my Thinking Chair. However, I rarely speak of the forest that lies to the south of my meadow and it is this area that provided me with a little burst of joy just the other day.

Head south from the Thinking Chair and you find yourself walking into a mixed forest of beech-birch-maple and a smattering of Eastern hemlock. The hemlocks like the cooler, wetter places and they are joined there by a good number of Eastern white pines as well. The forest floor is relatively flat and there isnt much understory because of the maturity of the forest. Keep walking, placing one foot carefully after another and you will eventually reach a spot where the ground dives down toward a large stream. Witch hazel trees grow here along with a fair number of oaks.

But it is back in that large stand of pines and hemlocks that I want to stop. The shade of these large trees is so complete that virtually nothing grows underneath them. It is a prime spot for looking for owl pellets because they sit on the ground with nothing to cover them up. The mature pines have very large trunks that are spaced far apart and this creates what my beautiful wife Susan likes to call a park-like setting. It is a wonderful place to sit down, lean against a tree and just listen to the wind.

During the summer this area is surprisingly quiet. Treetop birds, like scarlet tanagers and Eastern wood pewees, may flit about the canopy, but very few birds actually venture down to the ground. In the winter, however, this seems to change and there are a few species of birds that will come down. Black-capped chickadees often form the heart of roving bands of songbirds and they will be joined by downy woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, tufted titmice, brown creepers and, if you are lucky, ruby-crowned kinglets. It is that last little bird that I will focus on for the rest of todays column.

When it comes to little birds, there are few smaller than the ruby-crowned kinglet (Corthylio calendula). Measuring in at a diminutive 4.25 inches in length, the only birds smaller than the ruby-crowned kinglet would be the winter wren and golden-crowned kinglet (both at 4 inches in length) and the ruby-throated hummingbird (at 3.75 inches in length). What is even more interesting is the fact that these tiny little birds spend the summer up in Canada and then they fly over 1,000 miles to the south where they winter in the southern United States and Mexico. We only see these guys on their way through and I was lucky enough to see three of them as they searched for migration fuel.

I had first picked up on their presence while walking in the woods, but the problem is that they are so diabolically small and fidgety that capturing a photo of one was impossible. This was only exacerbated by the fact that it was quite gloomy underneath those mature pines. So I watched them as they moved along and then I myself migrated over to the Thinking Chair. I placed out some seed for the chickadees and in no time at all they were swarming all around me with excitement.

But the real treat came when I discovered that the ruby-crowned kinglets had followed them. Conditions for photography were much better (thats the reason I placed the Thinking Chair where I did, after all) and even on a cloudy day, there was ample light for taking pictures if only the little buggers would cooperate. Ruby-crowned kinglets dont show much interest in seeds. Instead, they are interested in spiders and insects that might be hiding in the nooks and crannies of tree bark. The activity of the chickadees did not escape them, however, and eventually one flew over just to gawk.

It was this bird, posing on a bare branch with no obstructions, that presented itself for portrait photography for about 10 seconds. I took full advantage of my cameras speed and pressed down on the shutter button for the entire time. Most of the photos were blurry, but three were clear and I selected the last of them because I think the birds expression is so hilarious. At the top of the birds head, you can see the slightest hint of red for which the species is named and you can imagine the cartoon thought bubble above its head saying, What the hell is that noise? The little bird is staring right at me and is giving me the stink eye. Glorious!!

So thats it for today folks. There is still a lot of autumn to enjoy and I will try to focus in on one or two more flowering plants while they are still blooming, but birds are slowly going to become the main focus of my columns because everything else is battening down the hatches in preparation for winter. I hope that you are able to get outside and enjoy the odd patch of sunshine on a clear day and I would recommend walking off into the woods and leaning against a tree for a while. The sound of the wind through the branches is soothing in itself, but the bright, twinkling specks of bird life that may pass your way are well worth waiting for.
Suspected gunman Robert Card, 40, was still wanted Thursday morning in the slaying of 18 people in two locations in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday evening.
SAVOY  Kristie Lee Gentile doesnt like to think about to the horses she cant rescue.

Since 2019, Gentile has been taking in rescues of draft horses, mules, ponies and standardbred horses whose next stop would otherwise be to Mexico or Canada to slaughterhouses.

Now, Gentile, who does auditing work for an insurance company by day and hospice care by night, has taken a close look at the books at Second Chance Stables & Draft Rescue and come to a conclusion: She cant take in any more animals. At least not for the near future. Gentile has no plans to close her sanctuary. She just cant take on another horse, donkey, mule, pony  or goat for that matter.

The reality just is what it is, Gentile said. You have to be able to treat this like a business because that's what it is. It relies on money just like any other business. And if you're putting out more than you're taking in, you know, it's not going to be successful.

Unfortunately, that is exactly what has been happening. And with the price of hay going up this season for the second year in a row, Gentile did not want to have to choose one horses care over another in her stables.

After falling into adopting rescue animals, Gentile registered in Massachusetts as a nonprofit in 2021 and has 501(c)3 status. In 2022, she received donations totaling $38,000, but her expenses were well over double that topping $90,000. So the entire salary she made in her overnight hospice work, more than $53,000, went to the care of her animals.

Gentiles mission at the nonprofit is to rescue horses that are no longer useful and to save them from slaughter. Her goal is to allow them to live out, as she puts it, happy lives in their retirement.

That means vet bills are high, higher perhaps than the average horse owners, because many of the animals she takes in are ill, injured and require significant medical treatment. Vet bills last year totaled about $10,000, and Gentile believes theyll be about the same this year.

This year, eight animals under her care had to be euthanized.

Thats a decision she doesnt take lightly and does in consultation with her veterinarian, Dr. Suzanne Jaynes from the Equine Clinic at OakenCroft in Glenmont, N.Y. Shes one of a very few equine veterinarians in the region and cares for many horses in Berkshire County.

On Wednesday, Jaynes made a house call to Second Chance Stables.

She performed procedures and exams on several of Gentiles 11 animals, including providing vaccines and dental care to Mark, a standardbred gelding under Gentiles care as a foster from Little Brook Farm in Chatham, N.Y. Gentile is returning Mark to Little Brook Farm on Sunday.

Jaynes explained that she anesthetizes all horses to perform dental care in order to loosen their jaws and relax the animals. She gave Mark an injection and then waited to see how he would respond. When he was still a bit jittery after the first injection, Jaynes gave him a second and waited for him to appear a bit more relaxed prior to flushing his mouth, then using an electrically powered file to dull the points off some of his teeth.

While Mark was undergoing his procedure in the barn, his stablemate, Beth, gave off several low-pitched neighs.

I think shes calling to him because hes her boyfriend, Jaynes said. They get very bound to whoever their pasture mate is. Even though she wasnt in with him very long, but apparently now she misses him.

Jaynes then explained what the fate of these horses might have been had Gentile not taken them in. Horses go to auction in the United States and are typically bought by meat buyers from Canada, Mexico and abroad for both human consumption and pet food.

These horses might be bought at auction in Pennsylvania and shipped to Mexico without food, without water, without stopping," Jaynes said. "So its the inhumane treatment of them on their way there which is also horrible.

Jaynes spoke of the importance of rescue stables.

A rescue like Kristies is very uncommon, actually, Jaynes said. There are a few that kind of keep horses that are thrown away by everybody else, but its a teeny tiny drop in the bucket.

She said Amish work horses are a small part of the problem.

Its so many thoroughbreds, she said, noting the horse racing industry breeds more horses than it can use. You have to make thousands of thoroughbreds to make one winner. So all of the ones that arent winners get thrown away. Not all of them, but a lot, and its a very sad, sick underbelly that a lot of the general public doesnt know about.

As winter approaches, Gentile is getting ready to say goodbye to Dash, a standardbred horse who is blind and his legs are destroyed due to years of work as an Amish cart horse.

The winter will be way too hard for him, Gentile said of Dash. Hes scheduled to be euthanized Nov. 17.

Gentiles voice broke with emotion as she contemplated her decision to end taking in horses for the time being.

This is like devastating for me, she said.
The North Adams Campus of Berkshire Medical Center could reopen as North Adams Regional Hospital early next year after a months-long process to be designated as a critical access hospital.
Donald Morrison is an Eagle columnist and co-chairman of the advisory board. The opinions expressed by columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of The Berkshire Eagle.
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WPP has released its Q3 trading update, with below-expected top-line performance.

Source: WPP WPP Our top-line performance in Q3 was below our expectations and continued to be impacted by the cautious spending trends we saw in Q2, says Mark Read, chief executive officer of WPP

Trading highlights

3 revenue -1.8%; LFL revenue +2.3%.

Q3 LFL revenue less pass-through costs -0.6% with growth in UK, Western Continental Europe and Rest of World, offset by declines in North America, with continued weakness from technology clients and in China.

Global Integrated Agencies grew revenue less pass-through costs +0.1% in Q3 (YTD +1.5%) with integrated creative agencies declining -1.1% (YTD -0.9%). GroupM grew +1.6% in Q3 (YTD +4.6%) with low-single-digit growth in the US and UK.

$1.4bn net new business won in Q3, including from Estee Lauder, Hyatt, Lenovo, Nestle, Unilever and Verizon. $3.4bn net new business won year-to-date.

Our top-line performance in Q3 was below our expectations and continued to be impacted by the cautious spending trends we saw in Q2, particularly across technology clients with more impact from this felt in GroupM over the summer than the first half, says Mark Read, chief executive officer of WPP.

Strengthened offer

Two significant moves to further strengthen its competitive offer, simplify its business and benefit from scaled technology platforms:

Launch of VML, the worlds largest creative agency with world-class creativity and deep expertise in commerce, data and technology.

Further integration of GroupM with common products and single technology platform, streamlining of operations and back-office functions supporting client-facing agencies.

Together these moves are expected to drive stronger revenue growth and net annualised cost savings of at least 100m in FY25 with a part-year benefit in FY24.

In a world being rapidly reshaped, we need to continue to evolve our offer to clients and simplify our business. I am excited by the creation of the worlds largest creative agency, VML, and the continued evolution of GroupM, says Read.

Both these developments will strengthen our offer to clients, simplify the integration of our services and maximise the returns on our ongoing investments in AI and technology, he adds.

Outlook

2023 guidance updated: LFL revenue less pass-through costs growth now expected to be around 0.5-1.0% (previously 1.5-3.0%); with headline operating margin of 14.8-15.0% (excluding the impact of FX) (previously around 15.0%).

We continue to win both creative and media assignments from leading global companies including significant wins in the third quarter with Estee Lauder (media), Hyatt (creative), Lenovo (creative), Nestle (media) and Verizon (creative). Our net new business performance of $1.4bn in the quarter showed sequential improvement after a tougher first half, says Read.

Capital Markets Day

WPP intends to hold a Capital Markets Day in January 2024 to update investors and analysts on its strategic roadmap to drive growth, further efficiencies and margin expansion over the next three to five years.

We will provide more detail on todays announcements, our strategic roadmap and actions to drive growth, further efficiencies and margin expansion at our Capital Markets Day in January, says Read.
The South African Breweries have partnered with the Eastern Cape Liquor Board in a project named, 'Anti Pens-Down' that will introduce and establish reduction solutions for harm caused by alcohol misuse and programmes throughout the province.

The Eastern Cape Liquor Board has commissioned an independent research company to conduct a study aimed at developing evidence-based solutions that can be monitored and evaluated. SAB will form part of the professional research by ensuring that the solutions are tested, then monitored and evaluated for better results.

The Anti Pens-Down initiative is working alongside active programmes, such as the Responsible Trader and the Road Safety AEC programme.

Zoleka Lisa, vice president of corporate affairs at South African Breweriessays, "In the quest to address the consequences of irresponsible alcohol consumption, research serves as our guiding light, illuminating pathways to responsible choices, healthier lives, and a brighter future. Let's champion responsibility by guiding the youth to make wise decisions so they can have a safe and healthy future.

Image supplied

Research shows that South Africans children are drinking from as young as the age of 13. This is not only illegal but jeopardises physical and mental development and has a negative impact on academic performance.

Underage drinking continues to wreak havoc in our communities, and it is only when we adopt a multi-sectoral approach in dealing with this scourge that we will make an impact on this pandemic. To this end, we are delighted by the bold step that SAB has taken to collaborate with us in this fight, including commissioning a baseline assessment study that will paint a picture of the prevalence of underage drinking and necessary steps to take to offset this social problem. Said Eastern Cape Liquor Board CEO Dr Makala.

Dr Makala added, In our quest to alleviate the scourge of underage drinking, there is an urgent need for all of us to desist from blame-shifting and adopt a united front in seeking to curb this repugnant behaviour.

Consumption of alcohol by school-going children has been shown to impair their academic performance, including an increase in absenteeism from school. Longer-term, this has a knock-on effect in terms of their future success and job security.

Lisa adds, Through this campaign we intend to provide a platform to heighten awareness around the dangers of underage drinking by dissuading learners participation in the growing culture of Pens-Down. This initiative also promotes peer-to-peer education, as we understand how impressionable our youth are.

Furthermore, the campaign seeks to involve members of the communities and all stakeholders in fighting the abhorrent culture of Pens-Down parties. This will aid in bringing about a positive behavioural change.

The initiative also includes the newly launched Ambassador Programme where young people are encouraged to mentor each other sharing experiences, knowledge, and support. A peer-to-peer approach encourages a sense of community and empowers our youth to have a positive influence within their friendship circles.

Lisa concludes, We have hopes that this programme brings a positive impact in our communities. Our youth are our responsibility and by investing in their well-being today, we are ensuring they have a more promising future.
State-owned logistics company Transnet has requested an unspecified cash injection from the government as it seeks to reduce debt and return to profitability, it said on Thursday. "Transnet has requested that national Treasury provide an equity injection to support the recovery plan implementation needed to reduce debt and meet required financial ratios for debt capital market participation," said Hlengiwe Makhathini, Transnet's acting CFO.

Container ships are seen outside the harbour as workers at South Africa's state-owned logistics firm Transnet continue to protest outside the Port of Cape Town on their nationwide strike action that could paralyse ports and freight rail services in Cape Town, South Africa, October 17, 2022. REUTERS/Esa Alexander/File Photo

Board chairman Andile Sangqu said Transnet would be unable to carry out its turnaround plan, which seeks to restore freight volumes and return the company to profitability over the next 18 months unless the government provided the requested help.

The company declined to disclose how much funding it was seeking from government, its sole shareholder, but South African media reports have put the figure above 100 billion rand ($5.24 billion).

The government was not immediately available to comment.

Transnet's underperformance has seen freight volumes decline to 150 million metric tons in 2022/23 from 226 million tons in the 2017/18 financial year. It has weakened the economy, as mineral exporters have lost billions of rand in potential revenue because their shipments were disrupted.

Transnet has R130bn in debt and recorded a loss of R5.7bn in the financial year to March.

Its turnaround plan includes splitting the freight rail subsidiary into two - an infrastructure management company and an operating unit. The company will make another attempt to open up parts of its rail network to private operators after last year's false start.

In addition, it will sell off non-core assets including some real estate.

Transnet is looking for a substantive group CEO, CFO and head of its flagship freight rail unit after the three top executives left the company at the end of September and the start of October.

Sangqu said the executive posts could be filled "in the best case, by the end of this calendar year, or at the latest by the end of February".
Standard Bank Top Women Conference day one highlights:

The 20th annual Standard Bank Top Women Conference brought together influential voices from various sectors to address the pressing issues of gender equality, economic empowerment, and women's leadership. With insightful keynotes and thought-provoking discussions, the event emphasised action over discourse.

Call for gender equality and women's empowerment

In his keynote address, Sim Tshabalala, chief executive of Standard Bank Group, emphasised the intrinsic link between gender equality, sustainable development, and human rights. Tshabalala underscored the significance of women's economic and professional success, stating: "If you care about African development, you must care about gender equality and women's empowerment."

Recognising women's unique qualities in leadership, Tshabalala credited strong women leaders within Standard Bank for their contributions, while reaffirming their commitment to achieving a 50/50 gender balance in executive ranks.

P&G's commitment to women's empowerment and impactful initiatives

Alicia Eggington, vice president and general manager of Procter & Gamble South Africa, highlighted P&G's commitment to making a real impact on women's lives through initiatives like 'Always Keeping Girls in School'. This programme significantly increases school attendance for girls by providing menstrual hygiene education and sanitary pads.

Eggington stressed the importance of meaningful action, urging corporations not only to talk about change but to actively engage in making a difference. P&G's Women Entrepreneurs Academy has played a crucial role in increasing the representation of women-owned businesses in their supply chain.

Deputy minister of finance emphasises women's economic empowerment and financial inclusion

Dr David Masondo, deputy minister of finance, addressed the economic empowerment of women and highlighted historical gender disparities in business ownership. He emphasised the role of access to finance in women's economic empowerment and outlined government initiatives to support women entrepreneurs.

The Public Investment Corporation (PIC) is actively working to increase gender diversity in its investment portfolio and leadership positions, employing strategies like quotas for women on boards and investing in women-led enterprises.

Advancing SDG 5: Progress and challenges

A Fireside Chat session scrutinised United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5) and its role in advancing gender equity globally. Dr Achieng Ojwang, executive director UN Global Compact Network, South Africa, highlighted the importance of SDG 5, emphasising the need to address persistent gender pay gaps and women-owned businesses' limited share of global procurement spend.

Simone Cooper, head: business and commercial banking SA, Standard Bank, emphasised the financial benefits of gender diversity and the crucial role women entrepreneurs play in economies.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka, a women's rights advocate, addressed persistent gender inequalities and encouraged women to uplift and empower each other.

The conversation called on businesses to recognise the financial advantages of diversity while advocating for societal shifts in mindset and behaviour.

Technology's transformative power for women

Lillian Barnard, president of Microsoft Africa, highlighted technology's transformative power in promoting equity in the digital age. She emphasised the role of technology in supporting women-owned businesses and its potential for accelerated learning.

Barnard encouraged women to embrace AI technology, stressing its importance and the evolving human role in the AI era. She called for women's active involvement in governance to ensure AI remains inclusive and fair.

Youth-led solutions discussed

A discussion on youth-led solutions in Africa's socio-economic development featured Naledzani Mosomane, head of enterprise development at Standard Bank, and Dr Tamaryn Green Nxumalo, medical doctor and Miss South Africa 2018.

The conversation highlighted the critical role of youth in driving positive change in Africa, emphasising the need to overcome challenges in education and employment. Strategies for empowering youth included improving access to quality education, vocational training, and support for young entrepreneurs.

Gen Z's Impact on Africa's Socio-Economic Landscape

Experts discussed Generation Z's impact on Africa's socio-economic scene, highlighting their focus on purpose-driven work, flexible employment, and social justice initiatives. Gen Z's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative problem-solving in the digital realm were recognised, along with their emphasis on mental wellness and tackling global issues.

Empowering women in governance and technology

Hon. Emma Theofelus, Namibias deputy minister of information and communication technologies stressed the importance of women's participation in governance. She committed to using technology for women's emancipation and called for collective action to ensure women are at the forefront of progress.

Engaging men in womens economic empowerment

Velaphi Ratshefola, managing director of Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, emphasised the importance of empowering all women across the African continent and highlighted the vital role men must play in this endeavour. He acknowledged historical struggles, shared successes in gender representation, and emphasised the intersectionality of gender and race.

Ratshefola's speech resonated with the conference theme, emphasising the transformative power of gender equality.

The growing importance of womens empowerment in Africa

A panel discussion hosted by Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa explored the evolving landscape of women's empowerment in Africa. Key takeaways included the recognition of women's evolving roles, the importance of cross-sector collaboration, the significance of leadership development programmes, and the need for measurable progress in gender equality initiatives.

Toxic work environments: Enough is enough!

During Nene Molefi's impactful talk at the conference, she delved into the critical issue of workplace harassment and toxic cultures, shedding light on their detrimental effects. Her solutions-focused approach offered practical ways for organisations to combat these challenges. She stressed the power of collective action, urging employees to stand together when confronting microaggressions and discrimination.

Molefi emphasised the need to empower staff with active allyship skills and to hold ethics committees accountable for addressing workplace issues. Identifying and addressing bullies within the organisation was also highlighted as a priority, along with implementing comprehensive anti-harassment policies. Lastly, she reminded attendees of the importance of self-care and recognising when it's time to leave a toxic environment. By implementing these solutions, organisations can foster safer, more inclusive workplaces.

GPF's transformative journey towards gender equity and inclusive housing

Sandra Ruiter, project specialist, Gauteng Partnership Fund (GPF)'s keynote address at the conference was a powerful testament to the Gauteng Partnership Fund's (GPF) commitment to empowering women and fostering inclusivity. Ruiter highlighted the GPF's 21-year journey in transforming housing in the Gauteng province, emphasising their dedication to creating spaces where people can live, work, and pray while eradicating spatial inequalities. She discussed the GPF's impressive track record, including delivering 20,000 affordable rental housing units and managing over R1.7bn in private sector funding for housing development.

Ruiter also showcased the GPF's innovative programs, such as the Entrepreneur Empowerment Property Fund, which focuses on women and youth, and their commitment to inclusivity by ensuring local communities' involvement in developments. She proudly stated that the GPF's executive team is 100% female and 100% historically disadvantaged individuals (HDI), underlining their dedication to increasing women's leadership roles and participation in the property sector.

Initiatives to facilitate women's cross-border trade under AfCFTA

The discussion highlighted the transformative initiatives led by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aimed at fostering cross-border trade among women. Through insightful examples and in-depth analysis, the conversation emphasised how these strategic interventions break down barriers, enhance women's participation, and unlock the full potential of African women in cross-border trade. The speakers shared their insights on the significance of the AfCFTA in addressing trade obstacles, reducing costs, and promoting women's economic empowerment.

The panel discussed the role of cross-border trade in creating economic opportunities for women, with a focus on the challenges faced by women in this sector. They stressed the importance of recognising that women account for a significant portion of informal cross-border trade in Africa, approximately 70%, and highlighted the need for an enabling environment that supports women in business.

The potential impact of the AfCFTA on women-owned businesses was also emphasised, with a recognition that women are often better at managing finances and have a lower default rate on loans. The discussion concluded with a call for policies and reforms that prioritise women's inclusion and participation in the AfCFTA, with a strong emphasis on the African women and youth in trade protocol currently under negotiation.

The evolution of women's roles in African films

A Fireside Chat focused on the evolving representation of women in African films. The speakers discussed the importance of female representation in the film industry, emphasising its impact on providing women with a voice and showcasing diverse roles and perspectives. They highlighted the changing portrayal of women in African cinema, moving from traditional roles to more empowered characters, signifying the need for greater gender inclusivity in storytelling.

The panel also stressed the importance of empowering women within the film industry, including upskilling and training programmes and broadening educational institutions to offer specialised training. They emphasised the need for more women in behind-the-scenes roles and decision-making positions, inspiring young women to aspire to these roles and contribute to the industry's growth and diversity.

Promoting tech inclusivity and innovation

In another panel the speakers discussed the importance of inclusivity and innovation in technology and digital education. They focused on how bringing women and marginalised groups into the sector leads to creative solutions and greater potential for innovations that address gender-specific needs and promote gender equality.

The panellists highlighted the need to increase access to technology for women and girls, combat fear and apprehension around technology, and promote reskilling and upskilling programs. They also stressed the significance of empowering women in Stem fields, both in education and in the workplace, to bridge the gender gap in these sectors. The discussion emphasised that women contribute unique perspectives and creativity to technology and innovation, leading to more inclusive and impactful solutions.

The 20th annual Standard Bank Top Women Conference has shown us the way to a fairer and more prosperous Africa. With influential voices, practical solutions, and a shared commitment to gender equality, this conference has emphasised the urgent need to empower women and youth, not as an option, but as a necessity for a transformative future. The world is watching, and the lessons and actions sparked here will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the continent. It's a testament to the fact that empowering women and young leaders leads to thriving societies and economies, and limitless progress. This conference is a guiding light for a brighter, more inclusive Africa.




"The dislocation of our languages is perpetuated by not having pride to speak one's own mother tongue. We can only say a language is developed when it has doctors, professors, writers and artists who write down their work, poems and songs in isiNdebele. I am grateful for the support and efforts to develop our language to be an equal to others."

These were the words of His Majesty iNgwenyama Makhosonke II, King of the Ndebele Kingdom, who joined other dignitaries at the launch of a new collaborative initiative by the South African Centre for Digital Language Resources (SADiLaR), Wikipedia, and Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), aimed at promoting indigenous South African languages on Wikipedia.

IsiNdebele has been selected as the pilot language for the SWiP project (as it is known in short), since it is currently one of the indigenous African languages that seriously lack content representation on the free encyclopaedia platform.

In his address at the launch event, which took place on 20 September 2023 at the University of South Africa's (Unisa) Muckleneuk Campus in Pretoria, the king gave a brief history on amaNdebele in his mother tongue and highlighted the Ndebele Kingdoms contribution to the SWiP project.

The launch event programme, directed by Vusi Mtsweno, Gauteng Province Language committee member  isiNdebele, and Mmasibidi Setaka, SADiLaR's digital humanities researcher  Sesotho, was interspersed with items of traditional dancing, and a beautiful poetry performance by praise poet Audrey Skhosana.

Create the content you want the world to see

In her welcome, Prof Zodwa Motsa Madikane, Unisas vice principal of teaching, learning, community engagement and student support, expressed her delight at the project: We are a diverse people in South Africa. I am delighted about this project that brings forth one of my oldest dreams to see African languages marry technology, she said. As the University of South Africa, we pride ourselves in all the official languages of the land, and I am overjoyed to see technology give space to our languages.

Prof Langa Khumalo, executive director of SADiLaR, said in his address that it was very symbolic to have the entire Royal House of the Ndebele Kingdom at the launch to celebrate the elevation of a language that has been missing from the global community of languages.

Today we are celebrating the elevation of isiNdebele into the community of languages that sits in the cyber infrastructure. And, we are challenging the speakers of the language to be the creators of the content that they want the world to see in isiNdebele, he said. It is up to us to start thinking about our languages first: how they communicate our world view; how they represent our culture; and how they advance our human progress. We can never innovate anything as long as we use European languages as additional languages.

Advancing all of SAs indigenous languages online

While the SWiP launch event shone a spotlight specifically on isiNdebele to encourage the Ndebele people to actively participate in contributing content to Wikipedia, the SWiP project is aimed at promoting all of South Africas indigenous languages online. It does so by bringing together communities of indigenous language users and giving them the skills to create and review content on Wikipedia. In doing so, they collectively increase their respective languages digital footprint.

We have to reimagine the way we are teaching African languages, and the way we are training graduates for the future, Khumalo remarked. Our country has excellent language policy frameworks. But these legislative pieces haven't yet enabled real transformation. Let us unlock the knowledge in our languages and share it, so that the world can be better. You yourself have to stop and say: I think in my mother tongue; I dream in my mother tongue; I teach in my mother tongue, and I innovate in my mother tongue. During Heritage Month, let us be reminded that our culture is not only something from the past: it is a lived culture in the present, and it should continue to be so in the future.

Just start writing

Bobby Shabangu, president of Wikimedia ZA (which is responsible for the South African chapter of Wikimedia), lamented that the digital footprint of South Africas indigenous languages, and indeed African languages as a whole, is almost non-existent.

There is a dearth of content from the African continent. Why? Because Africans are not contributing any content online. Yes, we are consuming content, but we are not writing any. People have forgotten how to write, especially young people; and words are getting lost. My advice is to just start writing. Other people can improve on it.

He revealed that there currently is a very small number of people in South Africa who contribute to Wikipedia. With SWiP, we want to change that by building an active community of Wikipedia contributors that also includes members from the underrepresented communities e.g. women, and the LGBTQI+. We will be going to a number of universities across South Africa where we will be running training workshops of two to three days. This will involve registering for a Wikipedia account, learning about creating and editing content on Wikipedia and its rules, and enabling the Wikipedia translation tool where participants can proofread and correct translations.

ChatGPT in your mother language requires data

Our indigenous languages are under immense pressure, says Dr Friedel Wolff, technical manager at SADiLaR. When you take out your cell phone from your pocket, it doesn't speak your own language to you. Instead, it speaks English, and we build our whole lives around it. Open science is great but it doesnt appear out of thin air. We need to accumulate data first. For example, there are some amazing artificial intelligence tools out there, like ChatGPT, but it cannot train in your language if there is no data available. And, the more data we can create, the better it will become.

Wolff explains that SWiPs objective is to provide the building blocks and train indigenous language speakers to contribute content to Wikipedia: as writers, editors and also as trainers. We cannot take our languages into our future, if we dont have enough accessible data.

For a language to flourish, it must be actively used

In his speech, the chief executive officer of PanSALB, Lance Schultz, emphasised the importance of being intentional in preserving South Africas indigenous languages and developing a digital footprint for them. The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has been with us for a while already. We have to be very intentional about 4IR so that children all over the country can understand what it means for them.

"The regression that we have with languages is in our own hands  it goes back to our communities and the importance of mother tongue education. For a language to flourish, it must be actively used. One cannot separate the development of a language from its usage. Since younger people primarily access media digital, creating an online presence is crucial for the survival of our languages.

Today marks a momentous occasion as we launch this flagship project in partnership with SADiLaR and Wikipedia, Schultz continued. The SWiP project is dedicated to digitising indigenous languages, fostering community participation and promoting active citizenry in our country. Our ultimate goal is to build a robust repository of all our indigenous languages and achieve our goals, as set out in the global action plan for Unescos International Decade of Indigenous Languages, to raise global awareness of the critical situation facing our indigenous languages, and to mobilise stakeholders and resources for their preservation.

The loss of any language, is a loss of humanity

What an appropriate time to launch this project, during Heritage Month where South Africans are celebrating their distinct culture, heritage and languages, Dr Hatu Machaba, director of the terminology coordination section at the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, remarked. Languages must be preserved. Because apart from them being a medium of communication, they embody unique cultural wisdom of a people. Languages are also crucial in marking ones identity.

"Once a language disappears or is extinct, we lose much of the culture, history and heritage of the people who spoke it. Unesco sums it up very nicely by saying: the loss of any language is a loss of humanity. It's a reality that languages go extinct if measures are not put in place to preserve them, she says.

According to Machaba, government has made a concerted effort to develop and preserve technical terminology in all of the official languages in order to empower these languages to be functional in technical domains, such as the economy, education, and science and technology. These multilingual technologies are preserved and easily accessible to the public via the department website, as well as SADiLaRs Language Resource Repository.

Government has already achieved some milestones in developing, promoting and preserving the official languages of the country, however, a lot still needs to be done. And, working together with institutions of higher learning, language and cultural institutions, and all formations that champion the development and preservation of indigenous languages, we can do more.

The SWiP project launch was livestreamed on YouTube. Watch the recording here.




The NFDA serves South Africa and all SADEC countries. The NFDA is the oldest professional body of funeral directors in Southern Africa and aims to unite the funeral industry and support all cultures and religions. Eduvos believes in inclusivity and is therefore honoured to partner with a body that honours these values.

Eduvos, voted South Africas best private higher education institution, is always looking for ways to expand its academic offering and help industry address the gaps in skills and knowledge. This new higher certificate is the first of its kind in South Africa. It is fully endorsed by the NFDA. Eduvos and the NFDA hope that this will set a benchmark for everyone who wants to enter into the funeral director field.

The NFDA believes this higher certificate will uplift the industry and encourage more members to improve their skills and knowledge through this opportunity, says NFDA managing director, Elsabe Basilio. We hope that this course will attract several funeral directors to enrol and develop themselves by means of further studies.

This new collaboration underscores Eduvos's commitment to establishing corporate partnerships that serve the best interests of its students. This is only one of several corporate partnerships that Eduvos has established. Where possible, Eduvos gets full industry endorsement for its relevant qualifications.

Eduvos will be presenting at the NFDAs Annual General Meeting hosted in Gordons Bay in November. Here Eduvos will be having a lucky draw where the two winners will each receive one online short course at Eduvos to the value of R8,000. The AGM will be attended by the biggest partners and members of the NFDA as well as guest speakers.

NFDA members will receive a 20% discount on the higher certificate course at Eduvos.

Elna Lombard, general manager of the Pretoria campus says: "At Eduvos, we believe in the power of education to drive positive change in industries, and we're honored to collaborate with the NFDA, an organisation that shares our commitment to inclusivity and the highest standards of service. Our new Higher Certificate in Business Management (Funeral Management) is a testament to our dedication to bridging skill gaps in the funeral director field, and we hope it will set a benchmark for aspiring professionals.

This partnership is a testament to Eduvos's commitment to fostering valuable corporate collaborations for the benefit of our students, and it's just the beginning of what we have in store."

For media enquiries contact Kara van der Berg at moc.sovude@grebdv.arak

Find Eduvos online

Website: eduvos.com

Twitter: @edu_vos

Instagram: @eduvoseducation

YouTube: noitacudEsovudE@/moc.ebutuoy




Metrorail's Central Line in Cape Town was suspended in October 2019. This followed extensive theft and vandalism of cables and signalling equipment from Cape Town Station to Khayelitsha, as well as the branch line to Mitchell's Plain.

Then, during the Covid lockdown in 2020, Prasa cancelled security contracts on the Central Line. Families began moving onto the rail reserve and constructing shacks on the railway line. Many of them occupied the rail line because they could no longer afford to pay rent for the backyard shacks they had been living in.

In Langa, more than 1,250 households moved onto the line, according to presentations to Parliaments Standing Committee on Public Accounts (Scopa). They have since been moved off the line that continues to Khayelitsha. But this move is considered temporary. Scopa has been told land for the permanent relocation of the Langa households has been identified, and a rezoning application was lodged with the City of Cape Town in August. A fast tracked rezoning process is expected to be finalised by March next year.

But households continue to obstruct the adjacent line which runs parallel to the Khayelitsha line until just after the Philippi station, where it branches south through Mitchells Plain, terminating at Kapteinsklip train station.

Subsequently, the line was partially reopened in March this year, and currently runs as far as the Nyanga station. But the train does not stop at train stations between Bonteheuwel and Nyanga.

Relocation dates postponed

Langa resident Siphelele Maneli said he moved onto the railway line in 2021 after he lost his waitering job. Maneli said the restaurant had been struggling to make money so he and some of his colleagues were retrenched. With two school going children, he could no longer afford the rent he was paying for a backyard shack, and built a home on the rails.

He and his children live in a one-room shack between Langa train station and Jakes Gerwel bridge. He is one of more than 1,000 families living on the line that runs to Mitchells Plain.

Community leader Ntobeko Mbi noted there were meetings with Prasa officials about permanent relocation but there were delays.

I dont know what is the holdup but I believe the officials are doing all they can to fast track the relocations.

Mbi said initially they were told they would be moved by the end of 2022. Then it was shifted to mid-2023, and lately theyve been told the relocation would take place at the end of 2023.

But the Housing Development Agency (HDA) this month told Scopa that permanent relocation would only be finalised by February 2025.We community leaders understand the delays but the people are frustrated, said Mbi.

Nyanga and Philippi

The provincial head of the Housing Development Agency, Ndumiso Mkhwanazi, told Scopa that there are 3,941 households on the railway line from Philippi to Khayelitsha. But our inspection of the line found it was only occupied from the Govan Mbeki bridge on the border of Philippi and Gugulethu, to shortly before the Philippi train station. There are no households occupying the line from the Philippi station to the end of the line at the Chris Hani station in Khayelitsha.

Of these households, nearly 900 are to be temporarily relocated onto vacant Prasa land at the Stock Road station in Philippi in order to clear the track running to Khayelitsha. The Stock Road station site has been assessed for temporary accommodation and is currently being levelled.

But no temporary relocation has been mentioned for the remaining 3,000 or so households. As far as we can tell these are occupying the marshalling yard adjacent and south of the Metrorail train station in Philippi. Moving these will be a difficult undertaking, both legally and logistically.

As the current leaders of the rail industry, we must be the generation that makes a difference in the rail environment and collaborate in revitalising rail in our cities and countries. - Mr. Hishaam Emeran, PRASA GCEO, speaking at the @SaraRail_Org conference#SARARail pic.twitter.com/IsXmGd9MH2  PRASA Group (@PRASA_Group) October 25, 2023

Accusation of lack of consultation

Prasa chief executive officer Hishaam Emeran told Scopa there had also been consultation with residents of ward 34, where households occupied the rail line. This included job opportunities related to the relocation. But community leader Mthokozisi Bulengu told GroundUp that Prasa had not been communicating in good faith.

Bulengu said they only hear of plans to move households to the Stock Road station land through the media.

We feel we are sidelined even though we should be at the forefront of the negotiations.

Bulengu said the households had no water or ablution facilities. We relieve ourselves in the nearby bushes and we go to the formal houses nearby to get water.  The sooner we are moved the better for our health and well-being, he said.

A community leader on the Philippi side of the occupied line, Mzoxolo Bila, said families living on the rail lines felt lost and hopeless because the last time anyone spoke to them about being relocated was early this year. He said they were completely in the dark about relocation plans.

Nobesuthu Xoloba said she and her two young children moved onto the railway line in 2020 because they could not afford rent as backyarders. Xoloba said living conditions there were terrible and inhumane.

I am not living on the railway line by choice. Who would want to live like this? She said the people who moved onto the rail line had lost their income during the Covid lockdown and could not afford to pay rent.

Xoloba said people were willing to be relocated but wanted to be consulted about the process.

Although the line is not occupied beyond Philippi station, the electrical cabling has been stolen, as well as the actual rail line in places. The branch line to Mitchells Plain has also been stripped of electrical cabling. Stations beyond Nyanga, including Philippi have also been vandalised and stripped. Prasa spokesperson Andiswa Makanda said work had started to recover the section of the line to Mitchells Plain, and was being conducted in phases.

Published originally on GroundUp
Jacaranda FM has been voted Best Local Radio Station by 55% of all votes tallied, outpacing Groot FM and Pretoria FM as local radio station favourites.

Another feather in the More Music you Love station's cap is that Martin Bester, host of the Breakfast with Martin Bester show has walked away with Best Local Radio Personality!

Martin Bester has been driving Mzansi to work and keeping us company, or in stitches, or in tears, every Monday to Friday from 6am to 9am. Martins in-depth radio knowledge ensures that he knows what his audience wants to hear, responding with beautifully crafted storytelling that genuinely builds anticipation and a community around that Whats next?! moment.

As the ultimate champion for local people, places, and products, Martin has his finger on the pulse of local events, stories, and makers. Martin is a softy at heart, often raising money for animal shelters, rescuing dogs, and bringing the Good Morning Angels feature to life every Wednesday morning. If youve ever tuned in and cried  dont worry we all have, including Martin, who loves nothing more than to use the Jacaranda FM platform to change lives.

When hes not behind the mic or on stage with his band, he loves to curl up at home with his rescue pups and listen to some music to recharge.

Resident Workzone presenter Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp took third place as Pretorias favourite local radio station personality, making Jacaranda FM the only station to be awarded with three Best of Pretoria Readers Choice Awards 2023.

Sharp-witted, informed, and fun! Familiar favourite and award-winning radio personality Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp makes sure that your workday remains productive by bringing a smile your face every weekday from 9am to 12pm.

Shes as real in life as on radio, sharing experiences and ideas we can all relate to whilst remaining light and joyful as she brings you all the news you need to know and traffic updates.

Naturally More Music you Love also forms part of her show to make sure your day is filled with your favourite tunes that keep you motivated and take you closer to home time.

Elana, who radiates positive energy throughout her show, is one of the most recognised media personalities in South Africa. The highly influential business woman uses her platforms to emit positivity and motivation. She prioritises a feel-good approach which not only considers her listeners, but actively nurtures topics pertaining to mental health and overall well-being.

2023 boasts the 10th Best of Pretoria awards where Jacaranda FM has featured every year for a decade!

To be able to capture the hearts of Pretoria listeners every year for 10 years is a momentous achievement, especially because our journey started in Pretoria  a city very close to our hearts. Thank you to each and every person who has voted and tuned in for the past decade, says managing director of Jacaranda FM, Deirdre King.

Best of Pretoria, is an annual readers choice competition, guiding visitors and locals to whats popular in the capital city. Thousands of votes are cast each year in support of what locals deem to be a cut above the rest.




As part of the Dunlop Ladysmith plant's 50th anniversary celebrations in October, the tyre manufacturer announced a project to build two new classrooms, ablutions, an office and a sick bay at Ithubelihle Special Opportunity School in Leonardsville, Ladysmith.

Pictured at the announcement of Dunlops plan to build new facilities for Ithubelihle Special Opportunity School were (left to right) Ushio Shigeru, ambassador of Japan to the Republic of South Africa, school headmistress Sibongile Tshabalala, and Satoru Yamamoto, president and CEO of Sumitomo Rubber Industries.

Headmistress Sibongile Tshabalalasaid the new additions would enable the school to extend its support to the local community and better cater for its cohort of nearly 70 learners with special needs. One classroom will provide for a more conventional learning environment, while a second larger classroom will be used to accommodate physical activities.

Tshabalala, an educator, started the school when her own son with dyslexia was turned away from mainstream schooling. My child was diagnosed with dyslexia, and I struggled to find a school for him that would be able to cater to his needs. He was caught between mainstream schools and schools that catered for children with specific disabilities. I knew that I had to do something to help him, and the idea was born to create a special school to equip him with skills that he can use as an adult and be independent, said Tshabalala.

She registered her school and began lessons in a self-funded, rented, three-bedroom house. When the rent increased, her school found a new home at a local church. However, the layout of the church hall was not conducive to learning, and Tshabalala, through many discussions with local community leaders, was handed an overgrown piece of land belonging to a local school to use as the location of her school. With a donation of containers to use as classrooms and many months of hard labour, the school and its grounds took shape. Other facilities on the site were built using unwanted planks as well as broken pieces of tiles pieced together to form the floors.

The school curriculum consists of Basic English, Reading and Mathematics, Computer Literacy, Visual Arts, Performance Arts, Beadwork and Sewing. The pupils are aged between five and 18 years old, and the skills they acquire at school enable them to be employed and earn an income.

We are so thankful to God and to Dunlop for joining us and contributing to our vision. There is a demand for the type of skills we develop at our school for children with special needs. With this donation of additional learning space, we can accommodate more children and offer a better environment to learn in, so that they can leave here with skills to be independent adults, said Tshabalala.

The new buildings will be constructed using sustainable building and circular economy principles, including rammed earth waste tyres from the Dunlop Ladysmith plant. Similar construction methods are pictured here at Cape Towns Delft ECD Centre built by Natural Building Collective.

Natural building construction

The new buildings will be sustainably constructed by Natural Building Collective, which is partnering with Dunlop manufacturer, Sumitomo Rubber South Africa, on the project.

The two will be using sustainable building and circular economy principles in the construction, including natural and upcycled building materials  primarily rammed earth waste tyres from the Dunlop plant  as well as glass bottles supplied by the community for windows, locally made coal-ash bricks produced from waste from the Dunlop plant, roof rainwater harvesting, and a passive solar design.

Sumitomo Rubber SA CEO, Lubin Ozoux, said: Dunlop has been honoured to celebrate this wonderful occasion of 50 years of manufacturing excellence at our Ladysmith plant, with our people, our community and their families. We are grateful to be able to support an institution such as Ithubelihle Special Opportunity School, which plays an important role in providing care and education to children in the community. Importantly, the sustainable building principles of this project align with our journey to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

During the 50th anniversary visit, Headmistress Tshabalala shared the schools journey of growth with guests including Ushio Shigeru, ambassador of Japan to the Republic of South Africa, Satoru Yamamoto, president and CEO of Sumitomo Rubber Industries Lubin Ozoux, and chief executive officer of SRSA.

Peter McIntosh, founder of Natural Building Collective, said, We have been able to demonstrate that building with tyres is viable and competes with and exceeds conventional building standards. Tyre building costs are less than that of conventional buildings when comparing like for like. They are more durable, perform better thermally, and address the climate crisis. Tyre building is also inspirational, creating beautiful buildings that lead to connection with both the community in which they are built and those that build them. While the material costs may be less, as the goal is to use what is available and upcycle, it does require a lot of labour, creating employment in the communities the buildings are built in.

Natural building skills will be transferred to the local building constructor and local construction employees during the project.




The South African government will formally restart South African Airways (SAA) in Cape Town on Thursday. The launch event, which will be co-hosted by DPE and SAA, will mark two years since SAA resumed operations, and it will also be used to announce the resumption of direct flights between South Africa and Brazil.According to a news report by, Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan stated that the relaunch is a significant achievement for the airline, which has faced challenges in recent years.SAA was grounded for 16 months before undergoing business rescue and avoiding liquidation.

Source: Alan Wilson via Wikimedia Commons

According to the report, Gordhan said that the upcoming event marks a very significant step in the resurgence of South African Airways and that the government looks forward to the official relaunch of SAA, along with the introduction of its first intercontinental flight to Sao Paulo, Brazil.

SAA announced earlier this year that it will fly to Sao Paulo four times a week, with two flights departing from Cape Town and two from Johannesburg. SAA Interim CEO, Professor John Lamola, said that the airline decided to introduce the long-haul flight after careful analysis showed that it would be sustainable.

Cape Town Etc reported that Professor John Lamola, the interim CEO of SAA, said that the airline decided to introduce the long-haul flight to Sao Paulo after carefully considering whether it would be sustainable. He said that the airline is excited to announce Sao Paulo as its first international destination since emerging from bankruptcy and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Return of long-haul services from Cape Town

Lamola added that SAA's decision to begin relaunching its long-haul service with Sao Paulo was based on rigorous analysis of the route's viability and that sustainability has been at the heart of SAA's approach since its restart,

The first SAA flight to Sao Paulo, Brazil is scheduled to depart from Cape Town next Tuesday, 31 October 2023. The first flight from Johannesburg will follow on 6 November 2023.
A deadly mass shooting in Maine has left 22 people dead and 30 more injured, according to reports.

The deadly Wednesday night shooting in the city of Lewiston spanned three locations.

The Lewiston Police Department confirmed that the gunman opened fire at Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant, Sparetime Recreation, and an unidentified third location.

In a Facebook post, Maine State Police said that there is an active shooting situation in Lewiston, a city of 36,000, 35 miles north of Portland.

Officials from the Central Maine Medical Center, a local hospital, said they are responding to a mass casualty, mass shooter event.As of 9 p.m., the hospital said that they cannot share the specifics on the number of casualties.

Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients, the hospital said.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office shared two photos of the suspect, who was wearing a brown sweatshirt, and holding a rifle.

The suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Robert R. Card.

Authorities told residents in Lewiston to shelter in place and to stay inside your home with the doors locked.

Hundreds of police are searching for Card in the city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine state.

At the time of early Thursday morning, Card is still at large as the massive manhunt continues.

State and local police identified Card as a person of interest in the case after previously posting on Facebook photographs of a man wielding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle.

The pictures from one of Wednesdays crime scenes showed a bearded man in a brown hoodie and jeans, holding the weapon in the firing position.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr. Card, who is a person of interest, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.

Several media reported that a Maine law enforcement bulletin identified Card as a trained firearms instructor and member of the U.S. Army Reserve.

Card recently reported that he had mental health issues, including hearing voices.

It also said he threatened to shoot up a National Guard base.

Card was also reported to have been committed to mental health facility for two weeks during summer 2023 and subsequently released, said the notice from the Maine Information & Analysis Center.

Reuters could not authenticate the bulletin.

The Associated Press reported it was circulated to law enforcement officials.

The bar and the bowling alley are about four miles (6.5 km) apart in Lewiston, a former textile hub and town of 38,000 people in Androscoggin County about 35 miles (56 km) north of Maines largest city, Portland.


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Joe Kennedy III has announced that Florida-based company Frontline will be investing 3.8 million (4.3 million) in the North.

The US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs said that the insurance and technology company plans to establish an engineering development team that will create 31 jobs.

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It is estimated the project will generate an additional 1.9 million in annual salaries for the local economy.

The announcement comes as Mr Kennedy leads a delegation of senior US business and investment leaders on a four-day visit to Northern Ireland.

On Wednesday, the delegation visited the Belfast Campus of Ulster University.

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Ulster Universitys Belfast campus welcomes US Trade Delegation and Joe Kennedy III (Phil Magowan/Press Eye)

Mr Kennedy said investment was a further mark that president Joe Bidens ambitions for a trade delegation to Northern Ireland were being realised.

He added: Frontline is joining the many US investors who have experienced success and growth in Northern Ireland and is setting up its new engineering development team, taking advantage of the excellent skills available and the business-friendly environment.

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This investment underscores the compelling proposition that Northern Ireland offers.

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Frontline is one of the largest carriers in the south-east United States with a presence in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia and soon-to-be Virginia and Colorado.

It will operate in Northern Ireland under the brand OpenData Belfast.

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs, Joe Kennedy III (Liam McBurney/PA)

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Ivan Roche, originally from Co Cork, is the chief technology officer of OpenData Belfast, located in Belfasts Gasworks.

Mr Roche said he was excited to lead the new team that will create innovative products to support the next stage of Frontlines growth using the best of local talent.

Frontline was made aware of Northern Irelands attractive business environment by Invest NIs US office and through meetings with NI Connections, both of which are championing the strengths of the region, he said.

Before confirming the investment, our leadership team visited Northern Ireland and were impressed by what they saw and by the confidence that other US investors have in the region.

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The Northern Ireland team will deliver data analytics, data science, product development and operational support.

Frontlines CIO, Kurt Bonigut, said the company was keen to tap into the opportunities for investment in Northern Ireland.

Having learned of Northern Irelands strengths, we were here to create a team to support that objective, and we have been impressed with the calibre of staff weve already taken on board and are already evaluating expansion of our presence here in the future, he said.

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A number of members from the US delegation also joined Mr Kennedy on a visit to Ulster Universitys Belfast campus, which was visited by President Biden six months ago.

Attendees included 40 senior US business leaders from Coca-Cola, HubSpot, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Boston Scientific and Forbright Bank and more than 100 local business representatives.

During the visit, Ulster University announced its UK Government-funded AI projects.

Prof Paul Bartholomew, vice-chancellor of Ulster University, welcomes US trade delegation and Joe Kennedy III to Belfast campus (Phil Magowan/Press Eye)

Vice-chancellor of Ulster University, Professor Paul Bartholomew, said the Belfast campus reflected innovation in the city, adding we cannot, and we will not, stand still.

That is why it is of such importance to welcome US and local business leaders here today. There is so much more to do, and so much more of our potential to realise  socially, culturally and economically, he said.

The Head of Northern Ireland Civil Service, Jayne Brady, said the event at Ulster University enabled the delegation to get an understanding of Northern Irelands investment potential.

She said: Our talented, educated and innovative workforce is world class and delivering locally made solutions to global problems, particularly in our leading-edge sectors such as digital, software, cyber and fintech; life and health sciences and net zero technologiesas well as our renowned creative industries.

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Our world-leading R&D in these areas, flows from our pioneering universities, which alongside our Further and Higher Education institutions ensure that NI has a skills base that is second to none.

The very best of what this place has to offer was showcased and it was a truly collaborative effort between academia, business and government.

On campus, the US delegation and wider audience took part in two panel discussions promoting Northern Ireland as a compelling investment proposition.

From Wednesdays event it was announced that Ulster University, working alongside the Alan Turing Institute, Cambridge and Exeter Universities, have secured 3.2 million in UKRI funding to establish a new UK-wide digital twin research network to help transform the UKs national capability.

In addition to multiple research projects and industry collaborations with applications of AI across healthcare, education, automotive, cybersecurity and business, Ulster University is the only university in Northern Ireland to offer a Masters degree in AI.
Meta has opened a new campus in Ballsbridge, Dublin which will act as the home for Metas international headquarters.

The social media giant said its Irish base is home to over 80 teams and plays a central role in the companys global operations.

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With over 2,000 full-time employees across Ireland, the company also has sites in Meath, where its data centre is located, and Cork, which is home to reality labs.

The Minister for Enterprise, Simon Coveney, said: Meta has been a key investor in Ireland since it opened its first Irish office almost 14 years ago.

"It has been a challenging time for the tech industry, but Meta employs over 2,000 people in Ireland across three locations and Ireland has played an important role in the companys growth and success since 2009. On behalf of the Irish Government and IDA Ireland,

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"I wish Metas team every success in its new home in Dublin.

Speaking at the opening, head of Meta Ireland, Anne OLeary, said: Today marks a positive new chapter in the story of Meta in Ireland.

"We opened our first Irish office in 2009, with a team of 25 people. Now, with over 2,000 employees across 80 teams in three Irish locations, our operations continue to play an important role for Meta, both in Ireland and globally, as we build the future through AI and immersive technologies.

With over 110 nationalities, our new campus is open, bright and busy with an incredibly welcoming community. Its designed so that employees can prioritise time together to foster a vibrant culture, healthy relationships and strong collaboration, so they can do their best work.

The opening of the Dublin Ballsbridge Campus follows Meta' release of the Quest 3, the first mass-market mixed reality headset and the next generation of Ray Ban Meta Smart Glasses earlier this month.

It also comes after Metas Q3 2023 financial results, which were published on Thursday, reported total revenue last quarter of $34.1 billion (32 billion), up 23 per cent year-over-year.
Author Stephen King has criticised apologists for murder following the mass shooting in his home state of Maine in the US that left at least 16 people dead.

The prolific writer, referred to as the king of horror, whose works include The Shining, It, Misery and Carrie, criticised the easy access to rapid-fire killing machines.

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He wrote on social media: The shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon.

The shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon. Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder.  Stephen King (@StephenKing) October 26, 2023 Advertisement

Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder.

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He added in capital letters: This does not happen in other countries.

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THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN IN OTHER COUNTRIES.  Stephen King (@StephenKing) October 26, 2023

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King, 76, who is from Portland, Maine, is one of the states most famous residents and continues to live there.

At least 16 people were killed and dozens more injured in shootings in the city of Lewiston.

Police were searching for the man who opened fire at two locations  a restaurant and a bowling alley.

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The man identified as a person of interest is a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility, according to a state police bulletin.

The bulletin says the man, Robert Card, had been trained as a firearms instructor at a US Army Reserve training facility in Maine.

Caution to the public.

A shooting incident with multiple casualties has occurred in multiple locations in Lewiston. Police are currently searching for Robert R. Card (04/04/83) of Bowdoin. Card is considered armed and dangerous. If seen people should not approach Card or https://t.co/UzToVkLGkq  Maine State Police (@MEStatePolice) October 26, 2023

Card is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached, police said.

King has long been an outspoken advocate for gun control and vocal critic of the Republican Party and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

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Until recently he lived in a Victorian mansion in the heart of Bangors Whitney Park Historic District but in 2019 the house was turned into a museum honouring the author and his work.

Kings archives, which were formerly held at the University of Maine, the writers alma mater, were moved to the Bangor home.
China's top economic planner signs MoU with California government

Xinhua) 10:07, October 26, 2023

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), the country's top economic planner, on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of the U.S. state of California.

The MoU concerns strengthening cooperation between the two sides on low-carbon development and the green transition.

Zheng Shanjie, head of the NDRC, on Wednesday met with California Governor Gavin Newsom. The two sides discussed strengthening exchanges and cooperation in the field of green and low-carbon development.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
A refugee support group has said Cabinet discussions this week over the accommodation crisis demonstrate there is a real and serious need for a change of approach.

On Tuesday, Minister for Integration Roderic OGorman ran into opposition from Cabinet colleagues over plans drawn up which would limit State-provided accommodation for those newly arriving from Ukraine to just 90 days.

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Taoiseach Leo Varadkar told the Dail on Wednesday that the States ability to accommodate and provide for refugees and those seeking international protection was very much at its limit currently.

Nick Henderson, chief executive of the Irish Refugee Council, said Ireland had "done amazing things" to support refugees from Ukraine, but there had been "too much of a reliance on emergency accommodation."

Mr Henderson told Newstalk radio that ideas being suggested for medium- and long-term accommodation were good, but the struggle was in terms of scale. There are ideas around modular homes, rapid build homes, but they need to be scaled up. There is a huge success story in the number of people who are hosting refugees from Ukraine, currently around 14,000 people in host arrangements that can be scaled up as well.

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When asked if he accepted there was a limit on the capacity in Ireland, Mr Henderson said he did. I accept that there's a limit on capacity using our current accommodation model, which is very completely reliant on hotels and their beds. I don't accept that is the right model though.

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Ireland should be proud of what it is offering people fleeing war, he said. I think that the perception is different to the international protection process in that from the very beginning, refugees from Ukraine could choose where they would go and that choice would be based on natural language distance from the Ukraine. Some people want to because some people want to be far from the war, and some people may choose where they will get support that would enable them to start a new life. We do have one of the higher rates of social welfare.

Mr Henderson said the Refugee Council would oppose plans to introduce tapered support partly because he thought it was unethical, but also because it was not realistic. Where would people go after that 90-day period?
The former director of an Irish-registered equities firm should be required to use Norway and not Ireland to fight proceedings he has brought against Dublin headquartered Zurich plc alleging interference with his economic relations, the High Court has heard.

Arne Vigeland, who was removed as director of Dalkey-registered SJI Equities Ltd last January, is claiming damages for tortious interference in his business affairs arising out of a 1million legal costs order made against him by the Norwegian courts on December 9th last.

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That order arose out of unsuccessful proceedings in Norway by SJI against a number of former board members of Norwegian household renovations company, RenoNorden ASA.

It was claimed that RenoNorden provided SJI's parent, the Belize-registered investment vehicle SJI Investments Ltd, with incorrect information when it (SJI) bought 5m in shares in RenoNorden in 2017.

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Mr Vigeland, who lives in Nesoya in the Asker Municipality of Norway, said that following the share acquisition, SJI discovered the financial position of RenoNorden was much worse than had been revealed beforehand. RenoNorden went bankrupt in September 2017, he said.

His proceedings against RenoNorden in Norway were ultimately unsuccessful.

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However, Mr Vigeland was then sued in Norway by Zurich for the recovery of the 1m it had paid for legal costs in the RenoNorden case. Zurich had indemnified that firm's shareholders and directors for that purpose.

Zurich also got a 1 million freezing order on Mr Vigeland's assets on the basis that he had wrongfully transferred the RenoNorden action from SJI Investments to SJI Equities in order to evade any costs order that might be made in favour of the insurer.

Mr Vigeland said SJI Investments decided not to fund the RenoNorden lawsuit any further after the costs of the claim overran expectations.

Mr Vigeland later tried to have SJI Equities liquidated in Ireland as he said it was insolvent but he said the appointed liquidator had to resign due to his inability to obtain an indemnity from SJI investments.

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Last February, Zurich got an order in the Norwegian courts freezing Mr Vigelands assets and placing a 1m charge over his home in Asker.

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He then brought proceedings in Ireland against Zurich. He also got a stay in Norway on further proceedings by Zurich for an order requiring him to pay the 1 million.

The stay was to remain in place pending a decision in Ireland over which of the two jurisdictions should deal with his tortious interference case.

Zurich asked the High Court to rule that Norway and not Ireland was the proper jurisdiction for the case.

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It claimed that Mr Vigeland has been generally seeking to frustrate Zurich's Norway branch in recouping the legal costs it paid for the RenoNorden case.

It also claimed he brought the Irish proceedings as a tactical manoeuvre following the legal moves in Norway to make him personally liable for those legal costs.

Mr Vigeland opposed Zurich's jurisdiction application.

On Thursday, Mr Justice Michael Twomey heard arguments from Edward Farrelly SC, for Zurich, and Kelley Smith SC, for Mr Vigeland, on whether the High Court should decline to hear Mr Vigeland's proceedings because the courts of Norway should have exclusive jurisdiction.

The court heard that the central issue was whether Ireland or Norway was the correct jurisdiction in accordance with a treaty on jurisdiction and recognition/enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters, known as the Lugano Convention.

Mr Justice Twomey reserved judgment.
Raw sewage from the equivalent of 54,000 people in 26 towns and villages is still discharged into the environment every day in Ireland.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said Uisce Eireann, formerly Irish Water, has not managed to tackle pollution in some of the most significantly impacted rivers, estuaries, lakes, and coastal waters.

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Wastewater treatment in 15 large urban areas, including Dublin, did not meet EU environmental standards, while 26 towns and villages discharge raw sewage every day as they are not connected to treatment plants.

It will take a multibillion-euro investment to bring all wastewater treatment systems up to standard and at least two decades to complete, the EPA warned.

Less than half of wastewater in Ireland is treated to European standards despite Brussels requiring Ireland to do so 30 years ago.

Uisce Eireanns wastewater spokesman, Michael Tinsley, acknowledged that the discharge of raw sewage is completely unacceptable.

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He told RTE radio that the report highlights the significant progress made to fix long-standing issues, and that 450 million spent on wastewater infrastructure last year represented the highest ever investment.

He said that since Uisce Eireanns establishment in 2014, there were 50 areas where raw sewage was being discharged untreated.

He said that although the EPA report said this has reduced to 26, four further areas have been completed in recent months and work is ongoing in another 11 areas.

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. @IrishWater still does not have clear plans to prevent pollution from wastewater discharges at some of the most significantly impacted water bodies, and it is vital these are resolved through its new investment plan. More: https://t.co/cKKXfwtI6m pic.twitter.com/syRkRzxTtj  EPA Ireland (@EPAIreland) October 26, 2023

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Although acknowledging progress that has been made by Uisce Eireann, the EPA expressed concerns that delays prolong the risk to the environment and public health.

The director of the EPA, Dr Tom Ryan, said: While it is encouraging to see continued progress in stopping the unacceptable practice of discharging raw sewage into our environment, wastewater remains a significant pressure on Irelands waterways and is adversely impacting water quality.

The pace at which Uisce Eireann is delivering improvements needs to accelerate to prevent pollution and protect water quality.

EPA programme manager Noel Byrne said: It is welcome that Uisce Eireann is currently building infrastructure at large urban areas, including Ringsend and Arklow, which are designed to treat wastewater to a high standard.

However, poor management practices at upgraded plants, such as Skibbereen and Courtmacsherry, caused inadequately treated sewage to discharge into the environment.

This is not acceptable as these plants have sufficient treatment capacity.

Uisce Eireann must implement effective maintenance programmes for existing infrastructure and improve its operation and management of treatment plants to prevent such failures in future.
EU leaders are poised to call for humanitarian corridors in Gaza and for pauses in bombardments into and out of the enclave to enable access for aid, after days of wrangling that highlighted divisions within the bloc over the Israel-Hamas conflict.

While EU leaders have strongly condemned Hamas' attack on Israel, they have struggled to stick to the same message beyond that, with some stressing Israel's right to self-defence and others emphasising concern about Palestinian civilians.

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As leaders gather for a summit in Brussels on Thursday, diplomats and officials have spent days debating whether to call for a "humanitarian pause" or "pauses" in the plural.

A text intended as a final draft for the summit declaration includes the latter, expressing leaders' "gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza".

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It calls for "continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses".

Thursday's summit is the first in-person meeting of the EU's 27 national leaders since the deadly Oct. 7 assault on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas, which prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

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Countries such as Ireland, France, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal had endorsed calls from the United Nations for a break in the conflict for humanitarian reasons.

But others such as Germany, the Czech Republic and Austria resisted, arguing such a measure could curb Israel's ability to defend itself and let Hamas regroup, according to diplomats.

The compromise on "pauses" in the plural was meant to signal short breaks in fighting for missions such as hostage releases or aid convoys, rather than a formal ceasefire, diplomats said.

"The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations," the text also says.

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Diplomats said the text seemed to have broad acceptance among EU member countries but it was not clear whether leaders would demand any final changes before signing off on it.

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EU leaders including French president Emmanuel Macron and German chancellor Olaf Scholz have visited the Middle East to express solidarity with Israel and bolster diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict spiralling into a regional war.

'Continued support for Ukraine'

While the EU's influence on the conflict is modest, officials fear that an escalation could have grave consequences for Europe, including a rise in tensions between communities, possible Islamist militant attacks and a large flow of refugees.

The crisis erupted with the EU already grappling with the fallout from another war in its neigbourhood  the conflict triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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At the summit, the leaders aim to show they will continue to support Ukraine even as they face another major crisis.

"Our meeting comes at a time of great global instability and insecurity, exacerbated most recently by developments in the Middle East," said Charles Michel, president of the European Council of EU leaders, in an invitation letter to the summit.

"These developments require our immediate attention, without distracting us from our continued support to Ukraine."

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy will address the summit by video link and support for Kyiv will have first place in the summit declaration.

The EU and its member countries have provided billions of euro in assistance to Ukraine since Russian forces invaded in February last year.

But some officials and diplomats have voiced fears that Ukraine may now struggle to get the same political attention and resources from the West, particularly the United States, due to the new crisis in the Middle East.
EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness has defended the EU response to the crisis in Gaza and denied that Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had made the situation more difficult with her comments.

Her comments came as Taoiseach Leo Varadkar travels to Brussels to attend a meeting of EU leaders to discuss the huge challenges posed by two major conflicts on Europes doorsteps  the ongoing war in Ukraine and the outbreak of a bloody conflict in the Middle East.

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The meeting in Brussels will happen just as the Department of Foreign Affairs has warned Irish citizens to leave Lebanon because of the highly volatile situation there.

Speaking on Newstalk radio, Ms McGuinness said that Ms von der Leyen had shown incredible leadership on very complex topics. She respected the President for her leadership during the pandemic and in her response to the war in Ukraine.

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Ursula von der Leyen has faced criticism over her initial response to the Israel-Hamas war. Photo: AFP via Getty

Ms von der Leyen faced criticism for initially stating her support for Israel without any call for its actions in Gaza to comply with international law.

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Last week President Michael D Higgins said Ms von der Leyen was not speaking for Ireland, while Mr Varadkar said her comments lacked balance.

Ms McGuinness said the priority now needed to be humanitarian aid for Gaza and that would be the focus of the EU. She acknowledged there were nuances in the difference between responses from some countries. The key issue was how could the turmoil, death and destruction end.

Somebody has to talk about how do we resolve this? And we've been talking.

It was important that the message from Thursdays council meeting reinforce condemnation of the Hamas attack on October 7th, but also that Israel needed to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

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The people there were innocent victims and they had to be protected in this horrible war.

Ms McGuinness denied that the EU response to Gaza had been delayed. This is a very fluid situation. I am extremely cautious about how fragile the situation is. Listen to what [US] president Joe Biden said to Israel. He actually said, don't do what we did after 9/11 because we made mistakes in the past.

The Commissioner said she was relieved there had not yet been a ground incursion by Israel, but there was continued bombardment and children were dying. There were deep historical hurts on both sides.

Europe has been very strong on the need for Israel to comply with international and humanitarian law, she said. Today, when leaders meet, I think they understand that this is a situation which could unfold in a very bad way, we could go from bad to even worse, and there could be an escalation of this in the region itself.
President Joe Biden on Wednesday spoke out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the October 7th Hamas attacks on Israel.

He also said he was redoubling his commitment to working on a two-state solution to end the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict.

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Mr Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to pouring gasoline on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack.

It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now, Mr Biden said at the start of a news conference with Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese, who was being honoured with a state visit to Washington.

We must, without equivocation, denounce antisemitism.

We must, without equivocation, denounce Islamophobia.



To all of you hurting: You belong.



Youre all America. Advertisement Advertisement  President Biden (@POTUS) October 25, 2023

Settler violence against Palestinians has intensified since the Hamas attack, and Palestinians have been killed by settlers, according to Palestinian authorities.

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Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing them to evacuate to other areas.

The West Bank Protection Consortium, a coalition of nongovernmental organisations and donor countries, including the European Union, says hundreds of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since October 7th.

That is in addition to over 1,100 displaced since 2022.

Deadly violence has been surging in the West Bank as the Israeli military pursues Palestinian militants in the aftermath of the Hamas attack from Gaza.

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The violence threatens to open another front in the two-week-old war, and puts pressure on the internationally recognised Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank and is deeply unpopular among Palestinians, in large part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters.

Mr Biden again condemned the brutality of the Hamas attack that killed 1,400 Israelis and said he was convinced that Hamas was driven in part by a desire to undo US-led efforts to normalise Israeli relations with some of its Arab neighbours, including Saudi Arabia.

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The president also said that after the Israel-Hamas conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work towards a two-state solution.

Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and peace, Mr Biden said, adding: When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution.

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Mr Biden emphasised that point during a Wednesday afternoon call with prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling the Israeli leader it will be important to focus on what comes after this crisis including a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians, according to a White House statement.

Mr Biden spoke during a press conference with Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (Evan Vucci/AP)

The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to locate and free the more than 200 hostages that Hamas and other militant groups captured, the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ensuring safe passage for foreign nationals looking to leave the strip.

The Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory strikes.

Mr Biden said he had doubts about the accuracy of the Hamas death count, but stressed that it was critical for Israel to move carefully in its response to minimise civilian deaths.

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Im sure innocents have been killed, and its the price of waging a war, Mr Biden said.

Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that theyre focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war.

Mr Biden also said he has not directly sought assurances from Mr Netanyahu that Israel will hold off on an expected ground invasion into Gaza before hostages can be released.

What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible, to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Mr Biden said at news conference at the White House.

But I did not demand it. I pointed out to him, if its real, it should be done.

About 10 Americans remain unaccounted for amid the Israel-Hamas war, according to the White House.

Mr Biden also said on Wednesday that he warned Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, that if Tehran continues to move against US forces in the Middle East, we will respond.

American bases in Iraq and Syria have been targeted recently by drone and rocket attacks, and Iranian-backed militias have threatened to attack US facilities because of American support for Israel.
Israeli troops and tanks launched an hours-long ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating air raids.

The raid came after the UN warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamass bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the conflict earlier this month.

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Deputy Hamas chief Saleh al-Arouri said that despite the enemys crimes  the resistance is well, referring to the groups military wing and allies.

The statement on Thursday came after intense overnight Israeli strikes in the besieged Gaza Strip ahead of the expected ground invasion.

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Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday (Mohammed Dahman/AP)

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It (Hamas and militant groups) will turn your tragedies into joy, in the event of a ground invasion the Beirut-based top Hamas official said in a statement addressed to Palestinians in Gaza shared by the Palestinian groups media office in Beirut.

Mr Al-Arouri met the leader of Lebanons Hezbollah group, Hassan Nasrallah, and the head of Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Ziad al-Nakhleh on Wednesday. The leaders reached an agreement on next steps in the current sensitive situation, according to a statement shared by Hezbollah.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said that any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

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The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

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The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day.

The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to UN figures.

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Palestinians inspect the damage of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City (Abed Khaled/AP)

Irans foreign minister said Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel but that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the UN General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavour, along with Qatar and Turkey.

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Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 still held captive.

Mr Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against the Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime.

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I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

The Israeli military says it strikes only militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely populated Gaza. Palestinian militants have fired rocket barrages into Israel since the war began.

During the overnight raid, the military said soldiers struck fighters, militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions. There were no immediate reports of casualties on either aide.

Meanwhile, an airstrike hit a residential building in the southern town of Khan Younis early Thursday.

Ambulances streamed into the nearby Nasser Hospital, but there was no official word on casualties. Family members said the building had housed 75 people, including 25 displaced relatives.

Israel said it had carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.

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The warning by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gazas population has also been running out of food, water and medicine. About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into UN shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south, saying those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.



A Palestinian firefighter extinguishes a fire in a destroyed building following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City (Abed Khaled/AP)

In recent days, Israel let more than 60 trucks with aid enter from Egypt, which aid workers say is insufficient and only a tiny fraction of what was being brought in before the war. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

An official with the International Committee of the Red Cross said it hopes to bring in nearly a half dozen trucks filled with vital medical supplies.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean if you will, given the severity of the consequences of the violence in the last two and a half weeks, said William Schomburg, head of the sub-delegation in Gaza.

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Today, we are looking at eight to 10 trucks coming in. We have more that are lined up, he said. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organisation said.



A building in the Maghazi refugee camp in Deir Al-Balah destroyed by the Israeli bombardment (Hatem Moussa/AP)

The conflict has also threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said Wednesday it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Strikes in Syria also hit the airports of Aleppo and Damascus, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Lebanese state media said Israel conducted airstrikes and drone attacks early on Thursday in southern Lebanon, near the tense Israel-Lebanon border.

No casualties were reported but the strikes ignited fires in the fields near in the border town of Aita al Shaab, the National News Agency (NNA) reported.

On Wednesday night, Israeli strikes hit the Tyre district and a mattress factory there, NNA said, while small-arms fire was exchanged between militants and Israeli troops along the border.

Hamass surprise rampage on October 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech on Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened, he said. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

On Wednesday, the wife, son, daughter and grandson of Wael Dahdouh, a veteran Al-Jazeera correspondent in Gaza, were killed in an Israeli strike.

Mr Dahdouh and other mourners attended the funerals on Thursday wearing the blue flak jackets used by reporters in the Palestinian territories.

Later on Thursday Hungarys foreign ministry said two Israeli-Hungarian children are among the more than 200 hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

The children, both dual Hungarian citizens, are 15 and eight years old, and were reportedly taken from the home of their father in a kibbutz near the border with Gaza during Hamass raid in southern Israel.

The ministry had previously said that 15 Hungarian citizens were in Gaza, but had not reported that any were there as hostages.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban went into an EU summit on Thursday saying he was right to meet Russian president Vladimir Putin and that most of the other leaders were wrong.

Mr Orban has characterised himself as the only one actively seeking peace in Ukraine.

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As the 27 EU leaders opened their traditional autumn summit in Brussels, the participation of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who will join by video link, will only increase the focus on Mr Orbans controversial meeting last week in Beijing with Mr Putin.





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We keep open all the communication lines to the Russians. Otherwise, there would be no chance for peace, Mr Orban said. This is a strategy. So we are proud of it.

We are the only one who is speaking on behalf and in favour of the peace which would be the interest of everybody in Europe, Mr Orban said, countering the official EU position of ostracising Mr Putin since the start of the war in Ukraine in February 2022.

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And Mr Orban will have a new ally around the summit table on Thursday, since left-wing populist Robert Fico is representing Slovakia as prime minister following his partys election victory last month.

Like Mr Orban, Mr Fico has had warm words for Russia and questions about the long series of war-related sanctions imposed on Moscow. He upped the ante during his countrys election campaign when, in clear contradiction of EU policy and promises, he vowed to withdraw Slovakias military support for Ukraine.

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And he did not step back on Thursday.

To make it clear, I wont vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we have analysis of their impact on Slovakia on the table, Mr Fico said, arguing that previous sanctions harmed his nation.

Those are welcome words for Mr Orban as he is poised to lose his biggest ally in the bloc, the nationalist government of Poland.



Slovakias Prime Minister Robert Fico arrives for a round table meeting at the EU summit in Brussels (Omar Havana/AP)

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The opposition, led by former EU Council president Donald Tusk, won Polands national election on October 15 and now seeks to lead the nation back to the centre of EU policy-making, undoing much of the existing political alliance with Mr Orban.

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On the EU table at the moment for Ukraine is that Mr Orban could hold up issues ranging from financial support and arms deliveries to the potential membership of Ukraine in the bloc by exercising his veto in decision-making that requires unanimity.

So far though, European diplomats said that Mr Orbans bluster outside the summit centre has rarely translated into intransigence behind closed doors. Since the war started in February 2022, the 27 nations have stuck together, even if some sanctions packages were slowed down by extra demands from Mr Orban.
Pakistan is setting up deportation centres for migrants in the country illegally, including an estimated 1.7 million Afghans, officials said on Thursday.

It is the latest development in a government crackdown to expel foreigners without registration or documents.

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Anyone found staying in the country illegally from next Wednesday will be arrested and sent to the deportation centres.

Jan Achakzai, a spokesman for the southwestern Baluchistan government, said three deportation centres are being set up. One will be in Quetta, the provincial capital.



Pakistans caretaker interior minister Sarfraz Bugti speaks to reporters during a press conference in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Thursday (Anjum Naveed/AP)

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Azam Khan, the caretaker chief minister for the northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, said the region will have three deportation centres. More than 60,000 Afghans have returned home since the crackdown was announced, he said.

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He said migrants who are living in the country illegally should leave before the Tuesday deadline to avoid arrest.

Pakistans caretaker interior minister, Sarfraz Bugti, has said there will be no deadline extension.

Mr Bugti said during a news conference on Thursday that no migrants living in Pakistan without authorisation illegally would be mistreated after their arrests.

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They will not be manhandled, he said, adding that they would get food and medical care until their deportations.

They are allowed to take a maximum of 50,000 Pakistani rupees (150) out of the country, he said.

The minister warned Pakistanis that action would be taken against them if they are found to be sheltering migrants who are in the country illegally after November 1.

Evicting those living in Pakistan illegally was a challenge for the state, but nothing is impossible to achieve it, he added.

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The country hosts millions of Afghans who fled their country during the 1979-1989 Soviet occupation. The numbers swelled after the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021.

Pakistan says the 1.4 million Afghans who are registered refugees need not worry. It denies targeting Afghans and says the focus is on people who are in the country illegally, regardless of their nationality.

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There has been widespread condemnation of the crackdown.

In the south-west Pakistani border town of Chaman, tens of thousands of people protested against the crackdown and new plans requiring the towns residents to obtain a visa to cross the border into Afghanistan. They previously had special permits. The protesters included Afghans.

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We have relatives in Afghanistan. We also do business there; we have our shops there, Pakistani Allah Noor Achakzai, 50, said.

He said Afghans crossed the border into Pakistan every day and returned home before the crossing closed, and that locals from both countries have gone back and forth on a daily basis for decades.

Last week, a group of former US diplomats and representatives of resettlement organisations urged Pakistan not to deport Afghans who are waiting for US visas under a programme that relocates at-risk refugees fleeing Taliban rule.

The UN issued a similar appeal, saying the crackdown could lead to human rights violations, including the separation of families.
South Korea, the US and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia.

On Thursday they said such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

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A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the US and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent US claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

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We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

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The joint statement was meant to show the three countries resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the US and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties.

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Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un travelled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The US, South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear programme in exchange for its munitions supply.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, left, and Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov greet each other during a meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea (Russian Foreign Ministry Press Service via AP)

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During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine.

After returning to Moscow, Mr Lavrov dismissed the US accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone.

I dont comment on rumours, he said, according to Russian state media.

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Earlier this month, the White House said North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

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Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the US. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Mr Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites.

Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Koreas Unification Ministry said on Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the Norths main launch facility.

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In response to North Koreas growing nuclear capability, the US and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, US and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training.
The Taliban have freed an Afghan activist who campaigned for the education of girls, according to a local nonprofit organisation.

Matiullah Wesa was arrested seven months ago and spent 215 days in prison, according to the group Pen Path.

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Mr Wesa has been outspoken in his demands for girls to have the right to go to school and repeatedly called on the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan to reverse its bans on female education.

Since their takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban have barred girls from school beyond the equivalent of year six. Last December, they banned women from going to universities.

Afghanistan is the only country in the world with restrictions on female education.

Pen Path gave no further details on Mr Wesas release or his condition.

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GOOD NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN 



Education activist @matiullahwesa is released after nearly 7 months in prison. He should never have been jailed for promoting girls right to education. Thank you to all who worked tirelessly,including those who campaigned through our Urgent Action. pic.twitter.com/69e7SmW5WL Advertisement  Amnesty International South Asia, Regional Office (@amnestysasia) October 26, 2023

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The UN special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, welcomed the news about Mr Wesa.

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Bennett also called for the immediate and unconditional release of all Afghanistan human rights defenders who are arbitrarily detained for standing up for their own rights & the human rights of others.

Amnesty International said Mr Wesa should never have been jailed for promoting girls rights to education.

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The Taliban de-facto authorities must release human rights defenders and women protesters Rasool Parsi, Neda Parwani, Zholia Parsi and Manizha Sediqi and all others who are unfairly kept behind bars for standing up for equality and denouncing repression, the rights group said on X.

Prior to his arrest, Mr Wesa and others from Pen Path launched a door-to-door campaign to promote girls education.

We have been volunteering for 14 years to reach people and convey the message for girls education, Mr Wesa said in social media posts. During the past 18 months we campaigned house-to-house in order to eliminate illiteracy and to end all our miseries.

Mr Wesas brother Attaullah said Taliban forces surrounded the family home in late March, beat family members, and confiscated Matiullahs mobile phone.
In the midst of two active conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, the US is hoping to find common ground with China as Chinas top diplomat visits Washington this week.

Over three days of meetings that begin on Thursday, top Biden administration officials, including possibly the president himself, will press Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi on the importance of China stepping up its role on the world stage if it wants to be considered a responsible major international player.

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Mr Bidens national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, are both expected to urge China to play a constructive role in both the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars.

Those meetings could set the stage for a summit between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum leaders gathering in San Francisco.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping (Ng Han Guan, AP)

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The US has been disappointed with China over its support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and its relative silence on the Middle East.

In addition, the worlds two largest economies are at odds on issues such as human rights, climate change, Taiwan, the South China Sea and North Korea.

Still, both sides have expressed a willingness to talk with each other since Mr Blinken cancelled a planned visit to China in February after the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon over the US, which marked a low point in recent relations.

In the months that followed that crisis, however, Mr Blinken rescheduled his trip and went to China in June.

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He was followed in quick succession by treasury secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and commerce secretary Gina Raimondo.

In addition, Mr Sullivan met with Mr Wang in Malta in mid-September ahead of Mr Blinkens discussions with Chinese vice president Han Zheng later that month on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York.

And Mr Blinken spoke just last week with Mr Wang about the Israel-Hamas crisis.

The goal, according to US officials, is to set the stage for another Biden-Xi summit at which the two leaders could explore co-operation or at least easing outright hostility on the most pressing matters of the day.

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Wang Yis visit will serve as one of the final touchpoints in laying the groundwork for the Biden-Xi meeting, said Ryan Hass, director of the John L Thornton China Centre at the Brookings Institute, a Washington-based think tank.

Wangs meetings in Washington will set the contours for the topics the two leaders will discuss when they meet in November.

It opens the possibility of the worlds two largest powers pursuing co-ordinated efforts to limit escalation or expansion of violence in Ukraine and the Middle East.
While on a road trip in Arizona, a 22-year-old Britney Spears felt aliens, God, or something overcome her.

Britney Spears memoir is one of the biggest releases of the year.

Describing the moment in her new memoir, The Woman in Me, Spears says she was driving through the night with a girlfriend, feeling so spiritually open and raw off the back of her breakup with Justin Timberlake when the otherworldly feeling swept through her  but she was embarrassed to tell her friend about it.

There have been so many times when I was scared to speak up because I was afraid somebody would think I was crazy, she writes. But Ive learned that lesson now, the hard way ... You have to tell your story. You have to raise your voice.

For 13 years, Spears was restricted from doing just that, as she lived under the restrictive conservatorship led by her father, Jamie Spears. The arrangement, she writes, put him in charge of her finances, controlled how she lived and worked, forced her into treatment facilities, and used her two children as a bargaining chip to convince her to play along.
A severe marine heatwave is bearing down on southern Australia, threatening fisheries, tourism and biodiversity along a vast tract of coast that hosts 67 per cent of the nations population.

The approaching heatwave is like an underwater bushfire that cant be extinguished, according to a group of experts concerned about the fate of the 8000-kilometre Great Southern Reef.

Scientists survey Lonsdale Reef, near Geelong, one of the biodiverse havens that make up the 8000-kilometre Great Southern Reef. Credit: Antonio Cooper, courtesy Great Southern Reef Foundation

The marine and climate scientists from the Great Southern Reef research partnership have asked Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek and Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen for $40 million over 10 years to help monitor and safeguard the reef.

The Great Southern Reef borders onto 63 federal electorates, is more economically valuable than the Great Barrier Reef, and yet receives less than 1 per cent of the funding, the researchers wrote.
Wiradjuri man and Alpine river guide Richard Swain spent his childhood watching the Alpine high country return to its pristine condition after decades of grazing had ruined it. But for the past 20 years, feral horse populations have boomed, allowing them to trample waterways and destroy the habitat of native animals.

On Friday, that long battle that many, including Swain, have fought may have ended. The NSW government approved the aerial shooting of feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park in a bid to control the rapidly ballooning population.

Richard Swain, ambassador for the Invasive Species Council, at Currango Plain in the Kosciuszco National Park. Credit: Wolter Peeters

In two years, the feral horse populations in the park increased by more than 30 per cent, despite the state government setting reduction targets, and ramping up resources and investment.

The NSW government published data last year showed feral horse populations in the national park were up to 18,814, a sharp increase from the estimate of 14,380 horses two years ago. In 2016, there were only 6000 in the park. Previously, environmental groups have said the number of feral horses could increase to 50,000 in the next decade unless stronger measures were introduced.
The French call their greeting kisses la bise. They usually start with a press on the right cheek, go left, then right again for extra-special people, an air kiss that never actually touches the skin, says culture writer Raphaelle Renaudin. She also provides a map of France, charting exactly how many kisses to give in which area (of the country). The Lorraine area in the north appears a little uptight with just one kiss. How very unFrench of it.

The Kiss by Gustav Klimt, 1907 Credit: Getty

Taking our lead from France, I think we should start referring to our greeting kisses as the biz. When I first met my partner and gradually introduced him to my family and friends, I was genuinely shocked that he didnt know when to do the biz. He came from a family of country vets who didnt do a lot of kissing but did spend an inordinate amount of time with their arms up bovines backsides (pregnancy testing). Surely a kiss couldnt be that hard.

But it was. My partner was always unsure whether to kiss my mother every time he saw her and then, 10 minutes later, kiss her goodbye. Then there were my sisters  should he give them a kiss seven days running or just at the beginning of the week? Even after 25 years, when were on the way to a do, hell list the names of attendees and check about the peck.

Funnily enough, I have the opposite problem, kissing almost everyone including smiley strangers my friends have just introduced me to  all in the spirit of good spirits. Mi casa es su casa  and your friend must be my friend too, right? Sure, but whats her name again?
Driving around Cairns the other day, we were passed by a stylish black vehicle, proudly displaying the advert, OZ Baby Hire, says Don Davies of Redlynch (Qld). Wondered if there was a substantial stockpile?

When in New Zealand, Colin Taylor-Evans of Lane Cove occasionally passes the signpost to Shag Point and I think, I know what people do there, they point!

Responding to Judith Allisons query as to where all the ants in Bexley have gone (C8), I can inform her they have migrated to Mona Vale, says Terry Wooldridge of Mona Vale. If she would like to advise her address Ill happily return them to her.

Cath McGirr of Ettalong Beach is also happy to oblige: Rest assured, theres a thriving population of common black ants here. Judith is welcome to take custody of the colony infesting my living room wall. The pest controllers tried to eradicate them, with no success. So, I expect the next generation will have two heads and learning difficulties.

We havent seen any ants for a while here, reports Merona Martin of Meroo Meadow. However weve seen plenty of well-fed echidnas.
CBD would never disagree with the great Green, but plenty of MPs certainly do! Maribyrnong has been around more than 100 years and is safe as houses, one told CBD. Look to the east, they said, quoting, err, Gandalf. Whoever loses their seat is unlikely to go down without a fight  and both Shorten and Khalil belong to the same AWU faction. Imagine the fireworks! For what its worth, CBDs money would be on Shorten prevailing  once a Faceless Man, always a Faceless Man. Sadly, neither Shorten nor Khalil returned CBDs request for comment. LIFE COMES AT YOU FAST Last Friday, Paul Edbrooke, state Labor MP for Frankston, survived a plane crash. On Wednesday, he saved a mans life. Edbrooke was going skydiving when his plane went down soon after takeoff. He was hospitalised but soon recovered  which turned out to be very good news for someone else.

Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke and the scene of the plane crash at Barwon Heads last Friday. Credit: Wayne Taylor; Nine News On Wednesday, Edbrooke was driving down Cranbourne Road in Frankston when he got an alert from his GoodSAM app. The app alerts nearby volunteer first-responders when triple zero has been called. Edbrooke rushed to the scene, which happened to be a nearby Indian restaurant. Inside he found a man in his 60s, not breathing. Edbrooke immediately began administering CPR. The next few moments were a blur, but by the time the paramedics arrived, the man had woken up and was staring Edbrooke in the face. Edbrooke told 3AW he learnt CPR when working as a firefighter. It was the second time in two years hed jumped to the rescue. In December 2021 he resuscitated a child who was dragged from a pool lifeless and without a pulse. These skills, once you use them a little bit, you just dont lose them. Just liking riding a bike. The hosts awarded him two bottles of wine. No worries. Id be happy to have a quiet weekend, though.

Yes hes certainly earned that. THE BOJO SHOW IS COMING Former British PM Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson never found time to visit the colonies during his time in office  fair enough, there was a bit on. That did not stop Julie Bishop declaring he had an unusually close relationship with the country. CBD is delighted to bring news that BoJo is finally making his way Down Under. He will give the 11th John Howard Lecture in Sydney on Wednesday, December 13. The event is being run by Liberal-aligned think tank the Menzies Research Centre, with Howard also taking the stage. Boris Johnson and John Howard. Credit: Shakespeare

The centres executive director David Hughes said the topics havent been set yet. We often leave it up to Mr Howard and the individual who will be delivering the lecture. But I think, given hes a great friend of Australia, instrumental in the AUKUS pact, I think hes got some significant foreign policy achievements as well, he told CBD. He was the first major foreign leader on the ground in Ukraine. Thats a significant achievement our audience would love to hear perspectives about. The centre also managed to secure Bojos services for free, which is quite the coup because he does not come cheap  the former PM recently signed an advance with New York-based speakers bureau the Harry Walker Agency worth around $4.7 million. CBD is more interested in if theres going to be a stunt. A zip-line entry? Wed settle for something close to his 2021 effort before the Confederation of British Industry, where he extensively praised Peppa Pig World, compared himself to Moses and imitated the noise of an accelerating car, according to the Guardian.

As Boris himself has said: My speaking style was criticised by no less an authority than Arnold Schwarzenegger. It was a low moment, my friends, to have my rhetorical skills denounced by a monosyllabic Austrian cyborg. WHITEHAVEN STRUCK CBD promised that Whitehaven Coals Thursday annual general meeting could get spicy. It certainly delivered, with 41 per cent of proxies voting against the companys remuneration report, amounting to a strike against the board. Mark Vaile at the Whitehaven Coal annual meeting. Credit: Michael Quelch A 25 per cent vote against the report at next years AGM would trigger a motion to spill the whole board, which is chaired by former deputy prime minister Mark Vaile.
Local councils say the state governments vision to increase housing supply and population density in established Melbourne suburbs will fail if it freezes them out of decision-making in its upcoming planning overhaul.

Then premier Daniel Andrews released a long-awaited housing statement last month outlining ambitions to build 80,000 homes every year over the next decade, while flagging housing growth targets for local government areas and a rewrite of the states planning laws.

The state government has a target of building 80,000 new homes every year. Credit: Darrian Traynor

But councils fear they will lose decision-making power in the overhaul, with the government already amending planning rules to enable developers to bypass councils and apply directly to Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to approve larger projects.

Municipal Association of Victoria chief executive Kelly Grigsby said councils had an important role to play in planning for housing growth with necessary infrastructure and services, and ensuring it was handled in a way Victorians would accept.
A Sydney man has faced court charged with the murder of notorious underworld figure Gavin Capable Preston as Preston sat outside a busy cafe in Melbournes north-west last month.

Jaeden Tito, a 22-year-old roofer with no known criminal history, appeared in a late sitting of the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday after being extradited from Sydney to face allegations he gunned down Preston on September 9.

Jaeden Tito arrives at the Melbourne Magistrates Court after being extradited from NSW. Credit: Joe Armao

Tito, from Campbelltown in Sydney, bowed as he was escorted into court and greeted magistrate Julie Grainger with a nod. He did not apply for bail.

Prosecutors asked the court for more time than usual for police to compile the brief of evidence to be handed over to Titos lawyers, saying detectives had more than 100 hours of CCTV to examine and were awaiting DNA test results. Grainger granted the request.
Thousands of Australians in Lebanon are ignoring the federal governments advice to leave as regional tensions escalate, prompting fears their options for escape will close quickly if war breaks out between Hezbollah and Israel.

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade officials have expressed alarm that only 400 of the more than 15,000 Australians estimated to be in Lebanon, to Israels north, have registered with the government. They feared a repeat of evacuations during the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah war, which they described as a consular crisis  seared into the minds of DFAT officers.

Homes and buildings in Lebanon seen from the Israeli town of Margaliyot. Credit: Kate Geraghty

Hezbollah is an Iranian-backed, Lebanon-based Shia group, which Australian has designated as a terrorist organisation.0

DFATs warning came as the Australian government committed a further $15 million in humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip, which has been targeted by Israeli airstrikes since Palestinian militant group Hamas attacked border towns on October 7.
Australia has been urged by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development to overhaul its tax system, deregulate state zoning laws and warn home buyers of properties climate risks as part of a sweeping plan to improve the nations finances.

In its first survey of the Australian economy since 2021, the Paris-based economic think tank said politically difficult decisions, such as taxing the superannuation income of retirees, had to be made to fund much-needed services while ensuring the long-term security of the budget.

The OECD has urged the federal government to overhaul the tax system, starting with a broadening of the GST. Credit: Gabriele Charotte

It said increasing the level of the GST while extending it to fresh food, education, healthcare, water and sewerage could raise almost $20 billion a year. Another $7 billion could come from taxing super incomes, with the extra cash pumped into areas such as climate change or childcare.

In its report, to be released on Friday, the OECD said the country had to deal with growing economic, budget, labour and climate pressures.
Nationals whip Mark Coultons job generally entails toeing the party line, but on the Israel-Hamas conflict he sits alone on the opposition bench.

The former Morrison government minister and grazier representing the expansive western NSW seat of Parkes says his 16-year parliamentary record shows hes not some sort of radical of any description.

Nationals whip Mark Coulton says support for Palestinians should not be seen as a left-wing issue. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

And so, one of the reasons I am speaking up  is I didnt want the support for Palestinians just to be dismissed as something from the left, Coulton says.

While Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has said Israel should show no restraint for the slaughter and abduction of its civilians at the hands of Hamas fighters, and Nationals leader David Littleproud has said the bombardment of Gaza was a direct result of those attacks, Coulton wants more attention on the plight of civilians caught up in the conflict.
A group of four women will spend a week visiting Florence, Portofino and the Cinque Terre in May 2024. Is train the best way to get to Florence from Rome and use it as a base to explore the Cinque Terre and Portofino? Any suggestions for cheapish, central accommodation? I have stayed in monasteries previously.

A. Maplestone, Eltham , Vic

The village of Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre. Credit: iStock

Train is the best way to get from Rome to Florence but the city is not a practical base for visiting the Cinque Terre. The return journey by train takes around five hours leaving little time for exploring. Youre better off staying in a coastal town and taking day trips and since you also want to include Portofino, I suggest Sestri Levante. The railway line from Sestri Levante has stops at each of the five Cinque Terre villages. This makes it easy to hop off at one of the villages, explore and re-board the next train. You could even walk from one village to another and take the train from there. The best views are between Monterosso and Vernazza but beware, there are lots of steps. Another option is to take a boat cruise along the coast, and this is easily arranged through hotels in Sestri Levante. To get to Portofino you can also take a boat or, at much lower cost, the bus, which takes around 25 minutes. You can find several monasteries that offer accommodation to travellers on the Monastery Stays website (monasterystays.com).

We are two fit 80s-plus travellers wishing to visit Sicily and Malta in May 2024. Are there any easy tours we could do, spending days in each place instead of one-night stops?

S. Bailey, Black Rock, Vic

Malta is compact, and basing yourselves in Valletta and organising day trips from there is the best way to experience this rich and intriguing Mediterranean island. Take a look at Viator (viator.com), theres a big selection of tours with various themes including cultural, food, boat trips to the Blue Lagoon and historic sites around Malta. Alternatively, hotels in Valletta can suggest tours. Since Sicily is much larger, you need to choose your base with care and one possibility is Ortigia, an island connected to Syracuse by a bridge on the east coast of Sicily. From there youre within easy reach of Noto, Ragusa, Modica, the city of Catania, Taormina and Mount Etna, all available as a day tour from Ortigia. Plan a couple of days just for relaxing in Ortigia and exploring its piazzas and meandering streets, its one of Sicilys loveliest towns. Other places worth visiting in Sicily are Palermo and the Aeolian Islands, each of which would add another three days to your itinerary.
A member of Hamas has told Russian media that around 50 hostages taken by the terrorist group had been killed by airstrikes and insisted more hostages would not be released until a ceasefire was agreed.

Several hostages were released this week.

A spokesman for Hamas armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, said about 50 captives had been killed in Gaza due to Israeli strikes. He gave no further details and Reuters was not able to verify the numbers.

A Hamas delegation is currently in Moscow alongside officials from Iran by invitation of President Vladimir Putin.

The Russian newspaper Kommersant is quoting Hamas Abu Hamid as saying the group needed time to locate all of those who had been taken from Israel to Gaza by various Palestinian factions in a Hamas attack on October 7.

They seized dozens of people, most of them civilians, and we need time to find them in the Gaza Strip and then release them, Hamid said.

Hamas is designated a terrorist group by the Australian government.

Israel has urged Russia to expel the visiting Hamas delegation, calling their invitation to Moscow deplorable.

Russia has repeatedly blamed the current crisis on a failure of US diplomacy, and called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and the resumption of talks aimed at finding a peace settlement.

With Reuters
Israel has told civilians in the northern Gaza Strip, including residents of Gaza City, to move to the south of the enclave, below the Wadi Gaza nature reserve, saying it will be safer there as it attacks Hamas following its October 7 cross-border assault.

However, Israeli warplanes have continued to hit sites in southern Gaza, spreading fear among the evacuees that they are just as vulnerable there as they were in their homes in the north. Here is an overview of the situation.

A wounded Palestinian man is wheeled into the Nasser Medical Complex, following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. Credit: AP

Why is Israel still hitting the south?

Since telling Gazans to head south, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have continued to pound targets across the area, killing an unknown number of civilians. In all, authorities in Gaza say 6546.
Israel has accused Hamas of stealing petrol from the United Nations refugee agency in Gaza and using it for military infrastructure. Loading So, Im sorry, you cannot ask from Israel to supply Hamas with those things... And thats while Hamas has hostages in captivity, whose lives depend on how quickly we do this operation as well. The United Nations, the United States, United Kingdom, European Union and Canada have also backed calls for a humanitarian pause. Speaking at the UN in New York, Israels Foreign Minister Eli Cohen said: How can you agree to a ceasefire with someone who swore to kill and destroy your own existence?

The proportional response to October 7 massacre is the total destruction of Hamas. It is not only Israels right to destroy Hamas, it is our duty. She said Israel would not bomb the delivery of any supplies passing through the humanitarian corridor at the Egypt-Gaza border and would comply with the Geneva conventions on warfare. Haskel, who worked as a veterinarian in Sydneys Bondi before being elected to the Knesset, said Israelis would of course appreciate a visit by Albanese. And not just that we want to see but, to be honest, we expect to see it, she said, saying that world leaders including US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and French President Emmanuel Macron had visited the country in recent days.

Australia has always stood on the right side of history throughout all the worlds wars and yes, [a prime ministerial visit] is something that we would expect. Asked during a press conference in Washington whether he was seeking a phone call with Netanyahu, Albanese said the Israeli prime minister was extremely busy and that a phone call with his Australian counterpart would not be at the top of the list. Israeli MP Sharren Haskel says Israel would expect Anthony Albanese to visit and show his support. Credit: Kate Geraghty Opposition home affairs spokesman James Paterson this week called on Albanese to send Wong to Israel in a sign of support if he was unable to make the trip himself. Haskel said she found it heartbreaking that some pro-Palestinian supporters chanted antisemitic slogans when the Sydney Opera House was illuminated in the colours of the Israeli flag after the attacks, and that NSW police felt it necessary to ask Jewish Sydneysiders to stay away from the area.

She mentioned rape and the murder of children as crimes, asking while wiping a tear from her eye: How does that advance the Palestinian cause? And then I hear them chanting from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which means it will be free of Jews. She said Israels war against Hamas was not merely a territorial war but the start of that clash of civilisations. Were going into a wider conflict, she predicted. Its going to take a long time; its going to probably include a few fronts.

Countries around the world need to decide which side are they on: the side of radical Islam or the side of the free world and democracies. Loading If the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah enters the conflict it would likely trigger a war between the US and Iran that would draw in countries across the Middle East and beyond, she said. Noting that Hamas is a proscribed terrorist organisation in Australia, she urged Australian law enforcement authorities to punish anyone displaying its flag or providing funding to the group. Hawkish on national security and an advocate of free market economics, Haskel is a passionate supporter of LGBTQ rights and the legalisation of cannabis, progressive issues now taking backstage.

Describing the atmosphere of shock and national unity that has taken hold in Israel since the attacks, Haskel said: The seventh of October has changed everything. Nothing will be the same after this war, as well. Loading Expressing alarm about the level of misinformation and conspiracy theories circulating online about the Hamas attacks, which killed an estimated 1400 people in Israel, Haskel accused the terror group of engaging in psychological warfare by exaggerating the number of civilian casualties in Gaza. Casualty numbers are provided by the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza. The figures are generally accepted as reliable by the United Nations and by Human Rights Watch which has found no major discrepancies in its investigations of past conflicts. More coverage of the Hamas-Israel conflict
Contained in a sturdy plastic vessel, the specialist devices have a metal partition in the middle separating two liquids. Once this barrier is extracted, the compounds mix as the soldier positions the bomb or throws it further ahead. Specialised teams in the engineering corps have been grouped into tunnel reconnaissance units and equipped with ground and aerial sensors, ground penetrating radar and special drilling systems to locate tunnels. Hamas has integrated underground warfare into its overall military strategy. Credit: AP They have also been issued with special equipment to see when underground. Standard issue night vision goggles need an element of ambient light to work effectively, but with all natural light blocked out when moving underground, troops will rely on thermal technology to see in the total darkness.

Novel radios, optimised for working in the extreme conditions experienced underground, have also been developed. There are potential complications with the underground arsenal, however. The sponge bomb  technically a liquid emulsion  is hazardous to work with, and some Israeli soldiers have lost their sight through mishandling the mixture. An opening of a tunnel is visible on the Israeli side of the border with Gaza. Credit: AP Israel may also use robots and drones to help soldiers navigate the tunnels  but so far, there have been difficulties operating these underground. Some of the robots will be controlled by wires spooling out of the rear of the device. Others will rely on standard radio waves, but will need a series of repeater nodes to be dropped off en route as radio signals degrade quickly underground.

Micro-drones for reconnaissance, capable of being held in the palm of a hand, may also be used but will similarly suffer as the radio signal weakens. The Israel-based Roboteam technology company has developed IRIS, a small, throwable drone that can be driven on large wheels via remote control. Known by special forces as a throwbot, it relays images back to a controller, operating the device from a position of safety. Some devices can have weapons attached so that if enemy combatants are seen, the controller can detonate explosives.

Alongside the IRIS, it has developed the MTGR, a micro tactical ground robot that can climb stairs and is designed to be operated by soldiers in buildings and caves. John Spencer, a former US major who chairs urban warfare studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point, says subterranean fighting is more like fighting underwater than fighting in buildings. Nothing that is used on the surface works in the same way or with the same efficiency underground. Specialised equipment is needed to see, to breathe, to navigate, to map the space, to communicate and to deploy lethal means.

Risking civilian lives Hamas, a designated terrorist organisation in Australia and the US, has integrated underground warfare into its overall military strategy. Loading Tunnels, some started decades ago, are no longer just places of refuge or concealment, but are integral parts of a wider plan to prepare the ground for ambushing Israeli forces above. Many stretch under civilian structures, with entry and exit points in dwellings and other non-military buildings, making it extremely difficult for Israel to attack them without inviting international condemnation.

A standard tunnel is about two metres high and one metre wide, which enables them to be built quickly. They are sometimes reinforced with concrete and metal but are not especially sophisticated. Loading Others however, have power, water and ventilation and are used for command centres and rest stations, weapons storage, infiltration into Israel and routes to secret rocket launching sites. In some parts there is even thought to be a small rail system for the transportation of weapons and building equipment. The last major attempt to destroy the system was in 2014s Operation Protective Edge, but the network has been rebuilt since.
Washington: US Vice President Kamala Harris has praised Australia for its gun reforms as America deals with another mass shooting, using a state lunch with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to declare: It does not have to be this way.

With a manhunt under way for a shooting suspect who killed at least 18 people in Maine, Harris expressed outrage and frustration that another community had been torn apart by senseless gun violence and told Americans we must continue to speak truth about the moment we are in.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and US Vice President Kamala Harris during a state luncheon in Washington, during Albaneses state visit to the US. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

In our country today, the leading cause of death of American children is gun violence, she said, standing alongside Albanese and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Gun violence has terrorised and traumatised so many of our communities in this country. And let us be clear, it does not have to be this way  as our friends in Australia have demonstrated.
Perhaps not many of us know this, but the footwear industry is one of the countrys oldest manufacturing sectors. The century-old business once put Malaysia on the map as one of the leading players until other countries emerged and took control. The contribution of the sectors may be minor in comparison to others, especially when the global health outbreak struck a few years ago, but that wasnt enough to stop the Tai siblings, Esther and Amy, from setting up Machino in the thick of the pandemic.

Machinoa moniker made up of the terms Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Othersstarted in their humble home in Puchong in 2020. Slowly but surely, the two sisters built a name for themselves in the local scene, and it proved to be worthwhile when they sold out their Raya collections and relocated to a showroom in Petaling Jaya this year. Ahead, we speak to the style insiders on their foray into the shoe market and their favourite pair of Machinos.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by o h i n i r a r a (@ohinirara)

What was your first memory of fashion?

Esther: We used to spend a lot of time at our mums boutique. She never stopped asking us to help her, even if it was as simple as arranging the beads by colour, cutting the laces, or just watching her in action with a client. She also used to go from house to house and make evening gowns for the expats. We would follow her around then, and that is essentially how we are introduced to fashion.

Who have been some of your role models or inspirations, and why?

Amy: Our role models are definitely our parents. They gave us lots of advice and always pushed us to start our own businesses. Weve gotten this far because of their support.

How did you get started as a shoemaker, and what inspired you to launch Machino?

E: Weve always bought many pairs of shoes since we were kids, so the interest has always been there. However, it was only during the pandemic in 2020 that we decided to start our shoe business. We had thoughts about starting a side hustle at the time, and thats when we ran into our uncle, a shoe manufacturer, at a family gathering. We paid a visit to the factory in Kuala Lumpur, and the rest is history. Beyond that, we think that the local shoemaking business seems to be in decline, so we decided to jump into the market and bring it back to life.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Machino (@itsmachino)

Whats your favourite piece you designed, and how will you style them?

E: My favourite piece has to be the Hana White sandals, and I will pair them with a maxi dress.

A: I enjoy wearing heels, so I always wear Lady Hana heels. The height is just right; I can still move around easily with it, and it certainly boosts my confidence when worn with jeans.

What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started Machino?

E: I keep telling people that they should get an accountant for their business, but its truehire one to keep track of the figures! Im not particularly skilled with numbers, so having one helps a lot with keeping the business running.

A: Bring in the right people to your team. To be honest, Im used to doing everything myself, but as the business expands, I need more help, and I prefer to recruit people who share the same passion so that we can all thrive.

Do you think the ever-increasing amount of overseas brands coming to our shores is a threat to local designers?

E: I dont think so because people are going to keep supporting local businesses despite the increasing number of foreign brands. Theres also a different feel when you support the locals. Anyhow, we should take the chance and see how the international labels create current trends so that we can then cater for the local community.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own label?

A: Just do it! You dont need a perfect plan. We started during the pandemic, and we didnt know what was ahead, but we just kept going. Start small and work your way up; youll find your way to your goal. You dont have to wait for the right timingyou create it!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Machino (@itsmachino)

What hopes do you have for the brand in the years to come?

E: We would like to create a brand that people can resonate with and grow the business by offering a wider selection of shoes to our clients. Other than that, we hope to open a flagship store in the city centre before expanding to neighbouring countries.

What is your dream collaboration?

A: Working with Nike or Jacquemus would be a dream come true for us!

If you could only wear one pair of Machino shoes for the rest of your life, what would it be?

E: Definitely the Hana White flats because they go with anything and work for every occasion. Its also the very pair that led us to where we are today. It was designed when we were out of ideas during the pandemic, but guess what? It blew out this year during Raya, and were so grateful for it!

What would you be if you were not a shoemaker?

E: I think I will be climbing up the corporate ladder, and once Im done with that, Ill start a business.

A: I will follow suit, but probably on the marketing side of the fashion or beauty industries.

For more fashion reads, click here.
Billionaire Gautam Adanis Adani Group is seeking to raise as much as $4 billion to help develop manufacturing plants that would produce low-cost green hydrogen, according to people familiar with the matter.



Adani New Industries Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of flagship company Adani Enterprises Ltd., will take the lead raising the money from domestic and international banks and is in early-stage talks with several lenders, the people said, asking not to be identified because the details are private.

Representatives for Adani didnt respond to a request for comment.

Frances TotalEnergies SE and Adani said in June they plan to invest $5 billion to produce green hydrogen and related products in India, as the worlds third-largest polluting nation seeks to decarbonize. Gautam Adani has said in the past that 75% of the groups forecast capital expenditure will be in green businesses and his companies plan to invest $20 billion over the next decade in renewables, green component manufacturing and related infrastructure.

Tycoons like Adani and his rival Mukesh Ambani are betting on green hydrogen as Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeks to establish Indias leadership in the transition toward cleaner technology.

Green hydrogen holds a strong promise for Indias future energy self-reliance, Adanis website states. It is not too difficult to imagine a scenario where green hydrogen at a price of less than $1/kg  coupled with the projected reduction in the cost of combined cycle hydrogen turbines and fuel cells  will not only allow the country to make a transition from fossil fuels, but also free India from the debilitating financial burden of energy imports.

Adani New Industries will conduct the fresh capital raising independent of Total, the people said. One of the first projects that the money will be put toward is a 1 million metric tons per annum green hydrogen facility being built in Gujarat, they said. Production from that plant is expected to start in 2027.





Green bet

Adani New Industries to raise capital independent of Frances Total

A successful project finance close would demonstrate the ports-to-power conglomerate is winning back the support of lenders after corporate fraud allegations levied in late January by Hindenburg Research. While Adani Group strongly denied the accusations, its bonds and shares plunged and most are yet to reach their prior peaks. A court-mandated probe by Indias market regulator is underway to assess if the conglomerate violated any local securities laws.

Also Read Hardeep S Puri to flag off India's first green hydrogen fuel cell bus L&T to build energy infra for world's largest green hydrogen plant at NEOM Govt unveils Green Hydrogen standards, sets emission limits for production Green hydrogen to be future fuel: R K Singh urges industry participation Will soon seek Cabinet nod for green hydrogen consumption order: R K Singh Piaggio Vehicles sells about 26,000 units of electric 3-wheelers in 2023 Case to break up Google hinges on 'four taps and a swipe': Report Mobikwik's Zaakpay gets in-principle nod to operate as payment aggregator Infosys, Smart Europe ink 5-year pact to redefine e-mobility experience PMI Electro Mobility raises Rs 250 crore from Piramal Alternatives

Money to be invested in a green hydrogen facility in Gujarat



Production from the plant expected to start in 2027



TotalEnergies SE and Adani plan to invest $5 bn to produce green hydrogen and related products in India



Adani firms plan to invest $20 bn over the next decade in renewables, green component manufacturing
The government has reduced the floor price for basmati rice exports to $950 per tonne from $1,200 per tonne amid concerns that higher prices were hurting outward shipments.

News agency PTI reported that the commerce ministry, in a communication to Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), said: It has been decided to revise the price limit for registration of contract for export of basmati rice from $1,200 per tonne to $950 per tonne."

On August 27, the government banned exports of basmati rice below $1,200 per tonne to restrict possible illegal shipment of white non-basmati rice in the garb of premium basmati rice.

On October 15, it extended the notification for an indefinite period. But, the very next day, the ministry issued a statement saying the review of the Minimum Export Price (MEP) of $1,200 per tonne levied in August was still under active consideration.

The statement was made amid reports that enraged over the extension of the MEP on basmati rice, some exporters had stopped buying new basmati from farmers. This had led to a decline in their open market prices by at least Rs 300-400 per quintal since the MEP was extended.

The exporters were demanding that the MEP be brought down to $900-1,000 per tonne to improve overseas sales.

However, a section of the exporters and officials justified the high MEP on the grounds that the current FOB (free on board) export price of Indian basmati rice after assuming a procurement price of around Rs 3,835 a quintal comes to around $1,170 per tonne in Mundra and Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust ports.

The MEP is just around $30 per tonne more than the FOB price, which translates into a nominal increase in purchase price for international customers, they argued.

The governments latest decision will reinstate competitiveness of Indian basmati rice shipments at the global markets, Atul Garg, managing director of GRM Overseas, said in a statement.

Also Read LT Foods, KRBL, Chaman Lal, GRM slide up to 6% on basmati rice export curbs Basmati rice minimum export price review still under consideration: Centre US, EU criticise India's rice export ban, request immediate resumption Centre imposes 20% export duty on parboiled rice; MEP on basmati rice Govt might lift the ban on white rice export soon as production increases India shouldn't agree to free cross-border data flows under IPEF: GTRI IT, consulting firms lead NPS adoption in the private sector, shows data Commerce ministry reduces floor price of basmati exports to $950 per tonne Sustainable finance will foster economic growth: Deputy Guv Swaminathan J Centre seeks to hire consultants for international investment treaties

He said exporters were now working towards regaining the lost ground. As a result, the buying cycle is showing signs of getting the momentum back.

The reduction in the MEP will again make Indian premium quality basmati rice attractive in the global market, Garg said.

In FY23, India exported around 17.8 million tonnes of non-basmati rice and 4.6 million tonnes of basmati rice. Of the non-basmati rice exports, around 7.8-8 mt was parboiled rice.

Rice prices have shot up globally due to an expected drop in production because of El Nino. Among countries, rice production in Asian countries is among the worst-hit.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday emphasised the significance of the 'centrality' of interests of Central Asian countries in overcoming the global challenges and called for the 'closer cooperation' within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) countries.

"Today when the world is facing challenges, looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity this calls for closer cooperation with the SCO, in this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian States plays a key role," he said.

Addressing the SCO Heads of Government meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgystan, Jaishankar noted the overwhelming debts on the Global South from 'opaque' initiatives and said that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and International North-South Transport Corridor will bring economic stability to the region.

He added, "We should bear in mind that the Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives. I am confident that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region."

Jaishankar who was speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the meeting said further, "India is keen to partner with Member States for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions. As we strive to improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey, at the same time connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries."

The External Affairs Minister earlier tweeted a video of the opening ceremony that featured a Hindi song. "And as the SCO meet in Bishkek starts..." posted on X.

Jaishankar arrived in Bishkek on Wednesday for the 22nd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government (CHG) held under the chairmanship of Kyrgyzstan.

"Thank Deputy FM Moldogaziev for the warm reception. Look forward to productive exchanges at the SCO; meeting Kyrgyz leadership and taking forward our bilateral agenda," he added.The external affairs minister also called on President Sadyr Zhaparov of the Kyrgyz Republic. "Delighted to call on President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyz Republic.Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma, defense, agriculture and investments. Conveyed India's support for the successful Kyrgyz Presidency of SCO Council of Heads of Government," Jaishankar posted.

Also Read SBI SCO Application 2023: Last date to apply ends today, check details Germany enters recession: What went wrong with Europe's largest economy? SCO Foreign Ministers' meeting to kick off in Goa today; all you must know India to host SCO virtual Summit tomorrow; Everything you need to know SCO summit: Victims of terrorism don't sit with perpetrators, says EAM Bank Holidays in November 2023: Banks to remain shut for 15 days next month Nine people killed, 27 injured in two road accidents in Maharashtra's Beed Canada welcomes India's decision to resume some visa services amid tensions Wife can't be compelled to work just because she is a graduate: Delhi HC PM Modi reviews progress of 8 key projects worth around Rs 31,000 crore

Jaishankar also met his counterpart from Kyrgyzstan Zheenbek Kulubaev and discussed a range of issues.

"Good to see my old friend FM Zheenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek. Spoke about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade and economy, development projects, health and education. Also exchanged views on Afghanistan, West Asia and connectivity," Jaishankar posted on X.

The October 25-26 meeting in the Kyrgyz capital city of Bishkek will be attended by the heads of governments of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, the Vice-President of Iran, and the foreign ministers of India and Pakistan.

"In Bishkek, the external affairs minister will also meet with his counterparts from other SCO member states and call on the country's top leadership," the MEA said.SCO observer States including Belarus and Mongolia as well as guest states Turkmenistan also attended the meeting.

The CHG is the second-highest forum in SCO. It focuses primarily on the areas of economy, finance, commerce, and socio-economic cooperation. India held the SCO Leaders Summit this year on July 4 in a virtual format.
India on Thursday once again refused to endorse China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative, becoming the only country in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation not to support the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.

A Joint communique at the end of the 22nd meeting of the Heads of Government Council of the SCO here said that Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan reaffirmed their support for China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) - the pet project of Chinese President Xi Jinping.

It said that they noted ongoing work to jointly implement this project, including efforts to align the development of the Eurasian Economic Union and the Belt and Road Initiative.

During the SCO summit in July hosted by New Delhi, India did not endorse the BRI while other members supported the project.

India has protested to China over the USD 60 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor - the flagship project of the BRI - as it is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who attended the summit in Bishkek, said that SCO members should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation.

In his address, Jaishankar also said that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor could become "prosperity enablers."



The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's BRI, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.

The International North-South Transport Corridor is a 7,200-km long multi-mode network of ship, rail, and road routes for moving freight between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

The BRI has raised global concerns over China's debt diplomacy of extending huge loans to smaller countries for unsustainable infrastructure projects.

Also Read Italian PM hints quitting BRI, says unlikely to compromise ties with China China dispatches senior diplomat to Italy to persuade nation to stay in BRI Dollar loiters at two-month peak ahead of fed chair Jerome Powell's speech Pak shelves multi-billion-dollar gas project with Iran under US pressure Asiad 2023 India vs China football highlights: China thrashes India 5-1 Govt starts hackathon to fight dark patterns on e-commerce websites Manipur govt extends mobile internet ban for another 5 days till Oct 31 Five terrorists killed as infiltration bid foiled in J&K's Kupwara Delhi court to decide on ED charge sheet in case against PFI on Nov 6 PM Modi inaugurates 37th edition of National Games in Panaji, Goa

The Hambantota port, which was funded by a Chinese loan, was leased to Beijing in a 99-year debt-for-equity swap in 2017 after Sri Lanka failed to pay off the debt.

China is doling out huge sums of money for infrastructure projects in countries from Asia to Africa and Europe. The US' previous Donald Trump administration had been extremely critical of the BRI and was of the view that China's "predatory financing" is leaving smaller counties under huge debt endangering their sovereignty.
The Manipur government has extended mobile internet ban for another five days till October 31, officials said on Thursday. The move comes barely a week after Chief Minister N Biren Singh had said the government would withdraw the ban within the next few days. The ban was extended following "apprehensions that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate videos inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law and order situation," a government notification said.

The notification by commissioner (home) T Ranjit Singh informed that the DGP vide letter dated October 25 had "reported that there are still reports of incidents of violence like confrontation of the public with security forces, attempts to mob elected members residences and civil protests in front of police stations."

The government has reduced the floor price for basmati rice exports to $ 950 per tonne from $ 1,200 per tonne amid concerns that higher prices were hurting outward shipments. In a communication to export promotion body APEDA, the Union Commerce Ministry has said "it has been decided to revise the price limit for registration of contract for export of basmati rice from $ 1,200 per tonne to $ 950 per tonne." The government on August 27 decided not to allow exports of basmati rice below $ 1,200 per tonne to restrict possible "illegal" shipment of white non-basmati rice in the garb of premium basmati rice. Recently, the food ministry had said the government is considering the industry's demand to reduce the floor price.
With the quality of air in the plains of North India now reaching the 'poor' category, tourists from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and other neighbouring areas are heading towards the hill state of Himachal Pradesh where even the highest AQI comes under 'moderate' category.

Except for Solan, where the AQI is under the 'moderate' category, the Air Quality Index in tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh is under the 'good' category including Shimla, which recorded an AQI of 34 on Wednesday.

While the AQI stood above 300 in at least 13 pollution hotspots in Delhi on Tuesday, Manali recorded the lowest AQI (6), followed by Kullu (7) and Dharamshala (15) on Wednesday.

Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool for effective communication of air quality status to people in terms, which are easy to understand. It transforms complex air quality data of various pollutants into a single number (index value), nomenclature and colour.

The AQI from 0 to 100 is considered good, while from 100 to 200 it is moderate, from 200 to 300 it is poor, and from 300 to 400 it is said to be very poor and from 400 to 500 or above it is considered as severe.

The environmental scientist and Principal Scientific officer of the Environment Science and Technology Department of Himachal, Dr Suresh Attri said that the data released on October 25 shows that the good air quality and pleasant weather conditions are attracting tourists from neighbouring states.

"As you know other parts of India are reeling under the worst Air Quality Index. Himachal Pradesh is recording a commendable AQI, (with) Manali having the cleanest air in the state, followed by Kullu, Dharamshala and Shimla," he said.

"Shimla recorded AQI at 34, Manali recorded lowest at 6 and Kullu 7, followed by Dharamshala which recorded AQI value at 15," he added.

Atri said that, however, the AQI in Solan is over 160 but still it comes under the 'moderate' category. "Kala Amb also recorded a poor quality of air at 149 as both are industrial areas," he said.

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The environmental scientist said that the AQI has increased in Shimla a bit and the temporary reason behind the change is the pollen from the seeds of the Cedar trees. "It is good as it will not be permanent," the Principal Scientific officer said with a sigh of relief.

The foreign tourists coming to Himachal also said that it is good to be amidst snow-capped mountains as compared to the national capital.

"We arrived today here in Shimla, it is beautiful weather, in this region of the city there are no vehicles, and the fresh air and pleasant weather are soothing here. In Delhi it was very bad, even though it is tough to cross the roads there are a large number of vehicles. I would recommend everyone to come here to this beautiful part of the Himalayas. We can see the clear sky and the snow-clad mountains here, it's wonderful," said Karen, a tourist from the UK.

Amarpreet Singh, a tourist from Ambala said that the higher AQI and rise in the level of pollution in the wake of Diwali and other festivals has brought him Shimla.

"I would recommend everyone to come here and would advise you to stop using firecrackers. If you don't burn firecrackers you would find air quality like Shimla in Delhi and other parts of north India," Amarpreet said.

Leena, a tourist from the National Capital Region (NCR) said that the Himachal government should regulate the number of tourists arriving here.

"It is good to be here, the good air quality and beautiful weather is wonderful. We are taking pictures and recording the blue sky which we will not be able to see for the next month. The government here should regulate the number of tourist arrivals in a certain period so that the beauty of the hills can be preserved," she added.
Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal Thursday said India must call for an immediate ceasefire in view of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and asserted that there is no space for being partisan in the unveiling tragedy.

Sibal said the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with images of innocent children being maimed and decapitated, and civilians being killed is heart-rending and unacceptable.

Over 1,400 people were killed in the unprecedented attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7. Hamas has held more than 220 people hostage in Gaza. According to authorities in Gaza, around 6,500 people have been killed in retaliatory strikes by Israel.

In a post on X, Sibal said, "Gaza Tragedy -- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza with images of innocent children being maimed, decapitated and along with civilians being killed is heart-rending and unacceptable."



"India must call for an immediate ceasefire. No space for being partisan in the unveiling tragedy," he said.

Sibal, who was a Union minister during UPA I and II, quit the Congress in May last year and was elected to the Rajya Sabha as an Independent member with the Samajwadi Party's support.

He has floated a non-electoral platform 'Insaaf' aimed at fighting injustice.
Weeks after a major conflict, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has expressed his commitment to signing a peace agreement with Azerbaijan in the coming months, Al Jazeera reported on Thursday.

He also said that he wants to establish diplomatic relations with Azerbaijan after decades of conflict between the neighbours.

The remarks came on Thursday, just weeks after Baku recaptured the region of Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic Armenian separatists.

"We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months," Pashinyan said in an address to an international economic forum in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi.

He said the future peace treaty would be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbours' Soviet-era borders, Al Jazeera reported.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov also said at the forum that Baku has been committed to peace and restoring transport links with Armenia since 2020. Still, progress hinged on Yerevan's willingness to act, according to Al Jazeera.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said previously that a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year.

Last month, Azerbaijan launched an offensive to retake Nagorno-Karabakh, which is internationally viewed as Azerbaijan's territory but has been ruled by ethnic Armenian separatists since the 1990s, Al Jazeera reported.

The offensive prompted the mass exodus of most of Karabakh's 120,000 ethnic Armenians.

Pashinyan's remarks come amid efforts to cement peace in the region, but progress has been patchy, and border skirmishes have continued.

Moscow has long regarded itself as the guarantor of Armenia's security in the South Caucasus, a region crisscrossed with oil and gas pipelines, Al Jazeera reported.

Responding to the comments, the Kremlin on Thursday affirmed hope that Armenian authorities would clarify Pashinyan's position.

Notably, relations have soured between Russia and Armenia in recent months, with Yerevan accusing Moscow of failing to support it against Azerbaijan, with which Russia is also allied, Al Jazeera reported.

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Armenia and Azerbaijan have been involved in a 30-year-long conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. The two countries have had no diplomatic relations, and their common border remains heavily fortified.
Hamass armed wing on Thursday said that almost 50 Israeli hostages held by its operators in the Gaza Strip have been killed since Israel began bombarding the Palestinian territory. (Ezzedine) Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50, the group said in a statement issued on its Telegram channel.



Late on Wednesday, Russia and China vetoed a US push for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to act on the Israel-Hamas conflict by calling for pauses in fighting to allow humanitarian aid access, the protection of civilians and a stop to arming Hamas and other militants in the Gaza Strip.



The United States put forward a draft resolution on Saturday as global outcry grew over a worsening humanitarian crisis and mounting civilian death toll in Gaza. It made the move just days after it vetoed a humanitarian focused draft from Brazil, arguing more time was needed for US-led diplomacy.



The initial US text shocked many diplomats with its bluntness in stating Israel has a right to defend itself and demanding Iran stop exporting arms to militant groups. It did not include a call for humanitarian pauses for aid access. But it largely toned down the final text that was put to the vote. We did listen to all of you, US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the 15-member council after the double veto, which she described as disappointing. Though todays vote was a setback, we must not be deterred. It was a rare move by the US to suggest Security Council action. Washington has traditionally shielded its ally Israel at the world body.



Ten members voted for the US text, while the United Arab Emirates voted no and Brazil and Mozambique abstained.

The draft does not reflect the world's strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue, Chinas UN Ambassador Zhang Jun told the council after the vote. At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has been appealing for a humanitarian ceasefire.



In the wake of the Security Council deadlock, the 193-member UN General Assembly will vote on Friday on a draft resolution

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put forward by Arab states that calls for a ceasefire. No country holds a veto in the General Assembly. Resolutions are non-binding, but carry political weight.



Russias UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia accuses the US of putting up a draft resolution that represented Security Council authorisation of a ground offensive in Gaza by Israel while thousands of Palestinian children will continue to die. After the double veto, the Security Council then voted on a rival Russian-drafted text that called for a humanitarian ceasefire and withdrawal of Israels order for civilians in Gaza to relocate south ahead of a ground assault.



Russia failed to the get minimum amount of support needed, winning only four votes. A resolution needs at least nine votes and no vetoes by the United States, France, Britain, Russia or China to be adopted. It was Russias second attempt at a resolution. Only five council members voted in favour of a Russian text on October.



TikTok warning



Malaysias communications regulator will issue a warning to social media firms TikTok and Meta for allegedly blocking pro-Palestinian content on their platforms, its communications minister said on Thursday.



Meta has since said it was not deliberately suppressing voices on its Facebook platform after Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the social media platforms had been accused of restricting content supporting the Palestinians.



Death toll At least 7,028 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, while more than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel since October 7.
Israeli troops and tanks launched an hourslong ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to "prepare the battlefield" before a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes.

The raid came after the UN warned that's it's on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamas' bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the war earlier this month.

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said on Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day.

The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the death toll, and the ministry doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants. By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to UN figures.

On Wednesday, the wife, son, daughter and grandson of Wael Dahdouh, a veteran Al-Jazeera correspondent in Gaza, were killed in an Israeli strike. The Qatar-based network showed footage of his grief upon entering a hospital and seeing his dead son. Dahdouh and other mourners attended the funerals on Thursday wearing the blue flak jackets used by reporters in the Palestinian territories.

The Israeli military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely-populated Gaza. Palestinian militants have fired rocket barrages into Israel since the war began.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas' capacity to govern Gaza or threaten it again, while also saying it doesn't want to reoccupy the territory from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005.

That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Palestinian society, with political and charity organizations as well as a formidable armed wing.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israel's war Cabinet, said the any possible ground offensive would be only "one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

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The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force," he added.

During the overnight raid, soldiers killed fighters and destroyed militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions, the military said. It said that no Israelis were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Israeli Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the limited incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Israel also said it had also carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds at least 224 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gaza's population has also been running out of food, water and medicine.

About 1.4 million of Gaza's 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into UN shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south, saying those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel has let more than 60 trucks with aid enter from Egypt, which aid workers say is insufficient and only a tiny fraction of what was being brought in before the war. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel needed to power generators saying it believes that Hamas will take it.

An official with the International Committee of the Red Cross said that it hopes to bring in eight trucks filled with vital medical supplies.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean, said William Schomburg, head of the sub-delegation in Gaza. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give (it) for the incubators or the bakeries? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gaza's primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said.

At Gaza City's al-Shifa Hospital, the lack of medicine and clean water have led to alarming infection rates, the group Doctors Without Borders said. Amputations are often required to prevent infection from spreading in the wounded, it said.

One surgeon with the group described amputating half the foot of a 9-year-old boy with only slight sedation on a hallway floor as his mother and sister watched.

The conflict has also threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said Wednesday it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said that eight soldiers were killed and seven others were wounded.

Israel has also been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks early Thursday caused fires in open land in the southern Lebanon border town of Aita al Shaab, where clashes have intensified, Lebanon's state-run news agency said. It reported strikes late Wednesday on towns in the Tyre district, saying a mattress factory was hit.

Hamas' surprise attack on October 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened," he said. "This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.
South Korea, the US.and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Korea's supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russia's war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the US and Japan came days after Russia's foreign minister scoffed at a recent US claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russia's attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russia's war of aggression, it said.

North Korea and Russia both locked in separate confrontations with the U.S. and its allies have recently taken steps to strengthen their defense and other ties. Speculation about North Korea's provision of conventional arms to refill Russia's exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russia's Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The U.S., South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies to enhance its nuclear program in exchange for its munitions supply.

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Korea's unwavering support for its war on Ukraine. He also proposed regular security talks with North Korea and China to cope with what he described as increasing U.S.-led regional military threats.

After returning to Moscow, Lavrov shrugged off the U.S. accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone.

I don't comment on rumors, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said that North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

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Thursday's Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the North's military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea)," the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them meant to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the U.S. Experts say Russia's provision of high-tech technologies would help Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems targeting his country's rivals.

In response to North Korea's growing nuclear capability, the U.S. and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some training with Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Korea's navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsula's west coast this week as part of broader annual military training. This year's maritime drill, which involves live-firing exercises, drew U.S. military helicopters and patrol aircraft as well, according to a navy statement.

North Korea didn't immediately comment on the drill. But it has previously slammed U.S-South Korean exercises as invasion rehearsals and responded with missile tests.
In the midst of two active and potentially world-changing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, the US is hoping to find at least a small measure of common ground with China as China's top diplomat visits Washington this week.

Over three days of meetings that begin Thursday, top Biden administration officials, including possibly the president himself, will press Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the importance of China stepping up its role on the world stage if it wants to be considered a responsible major international player.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, are both expected to urge China to play a constructive role in both the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars. Those meetings could set the stage for a summit between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum leaders gathering in San Francisco.

The US has been disappointed with China over its support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and its relative silence on the Middle East. In addition, the world's two largest economies are at odds on issues such as human rights, climate change, Taiwan, the South China Sea and North Korea.

Still, both sides have expressed a willingness to talk with each other since Blinken canceled a planned visit to China in February after the shootdown of a Chinese spy balloon over the US, which marked a low point in recent relations.

In the months that followed that crisis, however, Blinken rescheduled his trip and went to China in June. He was followed in quick succession by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

In addition, Sullivan met with Wang in Malta in mid-September ahead of Blinken's discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng later that month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. And Blinken spoke just last week with Wang about the Israel-Hamas crisis.

The goal, according to US officials, is to set the stage for another Biden-Xi summit at which the two leaders could explore cooperation or at least easing outright hostility on the most pressing matters of the day.

Wang Yi's visit will serve as one of the final touchpoints in laying the groundwork for the Biden-Xi meeting, said Ryan Hass, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institute, a Washington-based think tank. Wang's meetings in Washington will set the contours for the topics the two leaders will discuss when they meet in November.

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It opens the possibility of the world's two largest powers pursuing coordinated efforts to limit escalation or expansion of violence in Ukraine and the Middle East, he said.

Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, another Washington think tank, said Wang's trip signals that the Xi-Biden summit is almost certain.

Wang is here to pave the ground for Xi's San Francisco trip. That's the core focus of the trip. It means issues will be negotiated, solutions will be discussed and details will be deliberated and inked, Sun said. The APEC summit is 20 days away, so time is of essence. His trip means that Xi is coming. Xi's coming means meeting with Biden. The Xi-Biden summit means efforts to stabilize bilateral ties.

Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said Wang's trip could yield results such as additional direct flights between the two countries, visas for more journalists and even agreements on climate change and resumption of high-level military dialogue.

But while it is important for Wang and the Americans to discuss points of contention in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere, Kennedy said it is unlikely the two sides will reach much agreement.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said Wang will have in-depth exchanges of views with US officials on a range of issues and state China's principled position and legitimate concerns on relations between the two countries.

The Chinese president last came to the US in 2017, when former President Donald Trump hosted him at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Biden, who took office in 2021, has yet to host Xi on US soil. The two men last met in Bali, Indonesia, in November 2022, on the sidelines of the Group of 20 meeting of leading rich and developing nations.

Wang's trip is one of a string of meetings and activities to warm up Xi's visit to the US

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is visiting China this week, had a surprise meeting with Xi on Wednesday in Beijing. The Chinese president told the governor that the achievements of China-US relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more, according to the official news agency Xinhua.

Earlier this month, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led a delegation of six senators to China, in the first visit by US lawmakers since 2019. Schumer was also received by Xi, who said the Thucydides Trap is not inevitable. The Thucydides Trap is a political term for the tendency of major clashes when an emerging power challenges an existing power.

The US-China relationship began to sour in 2018 when the Trump administration slapped hefty tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. It deteriorated further over a range of issues, including rights abuses, the South China Sea, Taiwan, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The World Bank approved a $1 billion loan for South Africa on Wednesday to help it address an energy crisis that has peaked this year with the country's worst electricity blackouts. The energy problem has forced the country to lean on its highly polluting coal-fired power stations.

South Africa has experienced scheduled, rolling blackouts for months because of problems generating enough electricity for its 62 million people. The state-run power utility, Eskom, generates approximately 80 per centof the country's electricity through its coal stations, but they have failed to meet demand due to mismanagement, corruption and regular breakdowns.

South Africa's commitment to its climate change targets are in danger of being affected in the short term, with President Cyril Ramaphosa announcing in April that it may delay shutting down some of its coal stations because of the electricity supply problems.

The loan endorses a significant and strategic response to South Africa's ongoing energy crisis, and the country's goal of transitioning to a just and low carbon economy, the World Bank said.

While Africa contributes the least to climate change and is the continent affected the most, South Africa is Africa's most advanced economy and the world's 16th-largest emitter of greenhouse gases overall. It is 45th per capita based on 2019 data, according to Climate Watch.

The South African government has said it needs nearly $80 billion over the next five years to fund its transition to greener energy sources.

It has already received a $439.5 million loan from the World Bank to help convert a former power station into a renewable energy provider. The Komati power station was decommissioned last year, but its story is an example of how developing countries desperately need money to finance their change to greener energy sources to help meet climate change goals.

The World Bank has been urged to provide more funding for African countries facing climate change and other problems.

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Scaling Up India

News Summary

Scaling Up India recently concluded its highly anticipated event, the Scaling Up India Summit 2023, with Verne Harnish, Founder of Scaling Up, offering valuable insights to C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, and business enthusiasts. The summit, held at the prestigious Taj Lands End in Mumbai, provided a platform for attendees to explore the four critical pillars of business success: People, Strategy, Execution, and Cash.
FPT Corporation (FPT) organized its biggest annual tech event  FPT Techday 2023 - as a momentous occasion for FPT in celebrating its 35th anniversary. The event, which attracted 10,000 attendees, showcased FPT's commitment to innovation and its vision of "building a happier future".

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025767433/en/

FPT Chairman Truong Gia Binh delivered opening remarks at FPT Techday 2023, Hanoi (Photo: Business Wire)

FPT Techday, organized for the 11th consecutive year, has become one of Vietnam's most renowned tech expos, bringing together government officials, business leaders, technology experts, and enthusiasts. The two-day event featured an exhibition and tech conferences, focusing on demonstrating a happy journey for digital citizens (D-citizens). FPT also presented its ecosystem of products and services that cater to every D-citizens needs in terms of essentials, education, lifestyle, working, manufacturing, and future outlook. This Made-by-FPT ecosystem was presented in an exhibiting area of 8,000-meter squares, along with the products and solutions from some of FPT's partners such as Schaeffler, Konica Minolta, AFLAC, SC Ventures, Olympus, NXP Semiconductors, and Ingenico Group.

One of the events highlights is the launching of Happy Club, an AI-driven customer loyalty program developed by FPT, in alignment with the Digital Conglomerate 5.0 strategy (DC5) which aims at creating a happier future for people, success for organizations and prosperity for the nation.

Sharing about the companys vision, FPT Chairman Dr. Truong Gia Binh said: FPT wants to create a happy journey for every individual and every business. We have an ecosystem of products and solutions that cater to the fundamental aspects of human life, including education, work, healthcare, and many more. FPT is committed to accompanying our customers towards a happier future.

FPT Techday 2023 offers opportunities for businesses and tech enthusiasts to gain more insights about a future driven by tech innovations. Its conference features business leaders, tech experts and consultants from global businesses and organizations like Landing AI, Viessman, HBR Analytic Services, NVIDIA, Aitomatic, inc., Cox Automotive, Schaeffler, IDC, Bain & Company, KDDI Digital Divergence and more. Their presentations and panel discussions cover a variety of topics such as accelerating digital transformation through scale and agility, business resilience in the challenging global environment, Vietnams momentum as a global digital hub and its digital economy competency, co-innovation with a technology vendor, Generative AI as a transformation accelerator, among others.

During FPT Techday 2023, FPT and two of its subsidiaries, FPT Software and FPT Information System disclosed new partnerships with the worlds digital payments leader VISA and Japanese global printing TOPPAN. Additionally, FPT announced it has become a major investor in Landing AI, a US-based computer vision and AI company. These partnerships enable FPT to continue expanding across markets and improving its products and services, aiming to provide a better experience to customers and fulfill its vision of creating a happier future on a global scale.

About FPT

FPT Corporation (FPT) is a globally leading technology and IT services provider headquartered in Vietnam. FPT operates in three core sectors: Technology, Telecommunications, and Education. During 35 years of development, FPT has constantly provided practical and effective products to millions of people and thousands of business and non-business organizations worldwide, establishing Vietnams position on the global tech map. Keeping up with the latest market trends and emerging technologies, FPT has developed the Made-by-FPT ecosystem of services, products, solutions and platforms, which enables sustainable growth for organizations and businesses and offers distinctive experiences to customers. In 2022, FPT recorded total revenue of US$1.87 billion and 60,000+ employees. For more information, please visit https://fpt.com.vn/en

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025767433/en/
NTT Corporation (NTT) and Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (Chunghwa Telecom) today signed a basic agreement for the realization of international network connectivity through IOWN [1]. In the future, with IOWN's innovative communication technology centered on the All-Photonics Network [2], we aim to realize international network connectivity between Japan and Taiwan and to collaborate in IOWN related businesses and security.

1. Background

NTT has proposed the IOWN concept, which is a network and information processing infrastructure that can provide high-speed, high-capacity communications, and enormous computing resources by utilizing innovative technologies centered on photonics (optics). NTT has established the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) Global Forum [3] to promote the realization of new communication infrastructure.

Chunghwa Telecom is one of the Top 5 listed companies by market capitalization, and No.1 telecom service provider in Taiwan. Chunghwa Telecom provides cutting-edge ICT services to global companies through collaboration with major telecommunications companies in various countries. In addition, Chunghwa Telecom supports the IOWN concept and participated early in the IOWN Global Forum, leading the discussion of use cases and technologies.

NTT and Chunghwa Telecom will promote IOWN technology and realize business and security on a global level based on the communication technology and experience we have accumulated.

2. Outline of the Agreement

Based on NTT and Chunghwa Telecom's strengths in optical and wireless transmission technologies, as well as both companies' achievements in implementing these technologies in society, we aim to realize international network connectivity by utilizing All-Photonics Network technology between Japan and Taiwan.

In addition, we aim to establish interfaces and international connection rules for communication transparency in international network connections.

3. Outlook

NTT and Chunghwa Telecom aim to contribute to a prosperous society that can embrace diversity by utilizing various IOWN technologies through international network connections that uses IOWN technologies such as the All-Photonics Network, which is a robust communication infrastructure.

4. Endorsement comments

Akira Shimada, President & CEO, NTT Corporation

With outstanding technology and extensive global business experience, we expect that NTT and Chunghwa Telecom working together on IOWN's international communications will strongly accelerate IOWN's technology development and service deployment. Based on the achievements of NTT and Chunghwa Telecom, we hope to expand IOWN in various other countries.

Shui-Yi Kuo, Chairman & CEO, Chunghwa Telecom

As Taiwan's leading telecommunications company, Chunghwa Telecom is pleased to sign the IOWN cooperation memorandum with NTT, Japan's leading telecommunications company. Chunghwa Telecom agrees with the vision of IOWN's innovative technologies, and will continue to uphold the brand spirit of "Always Ahead" and implement the corporate sustainability goals of ESG energy conservation, actively invest in innovative research and development, and bring people with more diversified and convenient network and services.



[ Reference ]

[1] What is the IOWN initiative? https://www.rd.ntt/e/iown/

[2] What is the All-Photonics Network? https://www.rd.ntt/e/iown/0002.html

[3] What is the IOWN Global Forum? https://iowngf.org/

About NTT

NTT contributes to a sustainable society through the power of innovation. We are a leading global technology company providing services to consumers and business as a mobile operator, infrastructure, networks, applications, and consulting provider. Our offerings include digital business consulting, managed application services, workplace and cloud solutions, data center and edge computing, all supported by our deep global industry expertise. We are over $95B in revenue and 330,000 employees, with $3.6B in annual R&D investments. Our operations span across 80+ countries and regions, allowing us to serve clients in over 190 of them.

About Chunghwa Telecom

Chunghwa Telecom is Taiwan's largest integrated telecommunications services company that provides fixed-line, mobile, broadband, and internet services. The Company also provides information and communication technology services to corporate customers with its big data, information security, cloud computing and IDC capabilities, and is expanding its business into innovative technology services such as IoT, AI, etc. Chunghwa Telecom has been actively and continuously implementing environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives with the goal to achieve sustainability and has won numerous international and domestic awards and recognitions for its ESG commitments and best practices. For more information, please visit our website at www.cht.com.tw

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025960794/en/
Working within the Indian justice system offers individuals an opportunity to contribute positively to society, upholding the law, and safeguarding the integrity of the legal framework. By tirelessly representing clients and seeking justice, lawyers play a crucial role in ensuring that individuals receive fair treatment and their rights are protected. Moreover, public prosecutors contribute to maintaining law and order by effectively presenting the state's case and striving for the conviction of those who have committed crimes.

Lawyers in the Indian justice system have a crucial responsibility to their clients, advocating for their rights and fighting for justice. They utilize their extensive legal expertise to construct solid cases and deliver compelling arguments. Meanwhile, public prosecutors play a pivotal role in criminal proceedings, representing the state or government and guaranteeing a fair trial. Their duty involves presenting evidence and making persuasive arguments to secure the conviction of the accused. Overall, pursuing a career in the Indian justice system allows individuals to impact lives and serve the collective pursuit of justice.

Popular Career Opportunities in Indian Justice System

Lawyers

Being a lawyer is a profession that has deep roots in justice system. They play a crucial role in providing guidance and representation to individuals, businesses, and government entities regarding legal matters and disputes. Lawyers are responsible for meticulously conducting research to identify relevant legal precedents. Additionally, they are entrusted with preparing and drafting legal documents that are accurate and comprehensive.

Furthermore, lawyers are relied upon to offer counsel to clients about their legal rights and options. This entails explaining complex legal concepts and the potential consequences of certain actions. In situations where litigation becomes necessary, lawyers step forward to represent their clients in court proceedings. Their aim is to effectively present arguments, analyze evidence, and advocate for their clients' interests, employing a wide range of legal strategies and techniques.Lawyers play an essential role in the functioning of the justice system by ensuring legal matters are handled fairly, advocating for their clients, and upholding the principles of justice.

Judges

Judges must possess a deep understanding of the law and have the ability to apply it objectively to each case. They must remain neutral and unbiased, ensuring that all parties involved receive a fair trial. Judges are also responsible for maintaining order in the courtroom, ensuring that proper procedures are followed, and making crucial decisions on matters such as admissibility of evidence. With their extensive legal knowledge, judges play a vital role in shaping the outcome of legal disputes and upholding the principles of justice.

To become a judge, individuals typically need to accumulate several years of experience practicing law as an attorney. This allows them to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to effectively preside over court proceedings. Judges must also possess strong communication and analytical abilities, as they are tasked with understanding complex legal arguments and delivering well-reasoned decisions. Overall, their role in the justice system is indispensable, as they ensure that the law is interpreted and applied correctly, contributing to the fair administration of justice.

Legal Journalist

If you enjoy writing, you can pursue a career in legal journalism. Legal journalists attend court proceedings and report directly on the facts. They write pieces for both online (blogs, websites, and social media) and offline (newspapers, magazines, and so on) publications. Legal journalists may participate in conversations about legal matters since they have a thorough awareness of the law and current events.

This field necessitates excellent communication and writing abilities. However, instead of being limited to writing, a legal journalist can also operate in visual media (television, YouTube, etc.). It's a one-of-a-kind career with its own set of chances and obstacles.

Public Prosecutors

The public prosecutor's duty is to advocate for justice, ensuring that the guilty face appropriate consequences for their actions. They are entrusted with the task of carefully examining the evidence and witnesses, and presenting a strong case against the accused before the court. This involves analyzing complex legal situations, organizing evidence, and formulating persuasive arguments to convince the judge or jury of the defendant's guilt.

The public prosecutor also ensures that all legal procedures are followed, providing a fair trial for both the accused and the victim.Moreover, public prosecutors have a crucial role in maintaining social order and protecting the interests of society. Their work aids in deterring potential criminals as they tirelessly work to prove the guilt of offenders. By holding individuals accountable for their unlawful acts, public prosecutors contribute to creating a safer and more just community. Their dedication to upholding the law helps instill public confidence in the justice system. Therefore, the role of a public prosecutor carries immense importance in the legal framework, safeguarding the rights and well-being of citizens.

Legal Advisors

Legal advisors play a crucial role in corporate and government organizations by offering vital guidance on a wide array of legal issues. Their primary responsibility is to ensure that all actions and decisions made by the organization comply with the applicable laws and regulations. This comprehensive understanding of the legal framework helps these advisors mitigate the potential risks of encountering legal complications that could arise due to noncompliance. By providing extensive expertise and knowledge, legal advisors help organizations maintain lawful operations and make informed decisions.

Furthermore, legal advisors assist organizations in navigating complex legal landscapes by staying up-to-date with the ever-evolving laws and regulations that govern different industries. They analyze and interpret legal documents, contracts, and agreements to ensure legal obligations are met while protecting the interests of their clients. By anticipating and addressing potential legal issues before they escalate, legal advisors significantly contribute to the overall success and sustainability of organizations, enabling them to focus on their core objectives with a sense of legal security.
The All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS Jodhpur) has advertised 105 Group A, B, and C positions in the October 2023 issue of Employment News (07-13). These opportunities are available in the institution's several faculties, and interested and qualified applicants should apply online within 20 days of the start of online registration for this advertisement. Candidates with certain educational qualifications, such as B.Sc. Nursing/ 12th Standard pass with additional eligibility, are encouraged to apply for these posts.

AIIMS Jodhpur

AIIMS Jodhpur, otherwise known as All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, is a prestigious public medical college based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. AIIMS Jodhpur holds a prominent place in the Indian healthcare system and offers a significant opportunity for job aspirants in the field.

How to Apply

All interested candidates can apply for the AIIMS Jodhpur recruitment 2023 by visiting the official website. They should fill out the application form with the necessary details and submit it before the deadline mentioned in the official notification. Applicants must ensure they provide accurate information, as any discrepancies can lead to disqualification.

Step 1: Visit the official website at https://www.aiimsjodhpur.edu.in/.

Step 2: On the homepage, click on the link AIIMS Jodhpur Recruitment 2023 Notification. Step 3: Now you must enter the necessary information into the URL.

Step 4: to submit the application form.

Step 5: Now submit all required paperwork.

Step 6: Please save the printout for future reference.

Candidate Selection

Written tests and document verification will be used to select candidates where applicable. Jodhpur will host the Written Exam. The precise date, time, and location of the examination/interview will be communicated to eligible candidates in due course; this information will also be available on the official website of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jodhpur - http://www.aiimsjodhpur.edu.in.

Eligibility

According to the official notification, AIIMS Jodhpur has announced the recruitment for numerous positions with a total of 105 vacancies. Each position demands specific qualifications and experience. Therefore applicants are advised to thoroughly read the eligibility criteria before submitting their applications.
With some personnel changes over at CAMPIs secretariat committee, it took us a while to get the September 2023 new car sales breakdown for ...
The sixth edition of Animation is Film (AIF), the L.A.-based animation festival organized by Annecy, GKIDS, and Variety, has unveiled the winners of this years competition.

Chiara Malta and Sebastien Laudenbachs Chicken for Linda! was this years standout feature, winning both the jury and audience awards. The film previously won Annecys Cristal for a feature film and screened in competition at the Ottawa International Animation Festival. Just last week, it was nominated by the European Film Academy for best European animated feature.

Laudenbach previously directed the The Girl Without Hands, a tour de force which premiered in Cannes ACID section.

The brightly colored film turns on Paulette, who feels guilty after unjustly punishing her daughter Linda. To make it up to the girl, Paulette decides to make chicken with peppers, even though she doesnt know how to cook. Unfortunately, a strike has brought the city to a standstill, and getting her hands on the ingredients becomes a major task.

According to the jury:

With Chicken for Linda, Sebastien Laudenbach and Chiara Malta honor the challenges and rewards of being a single parent in a hectic world, employing a visually original artistic style through which lively brush strokes and daubs of color bring relatable human characters (and one very flustered chicken) to vibrant life.

Pablo Bergers Spanish feature Robot Dreams, a Neon pickup at this years Marche du Film, was honored with the Animation is Film special jury prize. Set in New York City in the 1980s, the family feature follows Dog and Robot, two best friends who take a trip to the beach. It won this years Contrechamp prize at Annecy.

The Animation is Film jurys favorite short was Tal Kantors Letter to a Pig, which blends animation techniques and live-action shots to tell different versions of the same story. In the short, a Holocaust survivor reads a letter he wrote to a pig that saved his life for a group of schoolchildren. Different styles emphasize how human memory is fallible and how recalled images and imagination are often abstract.

The jury explained their decision, saying:

Utilizing a unique blend of hand-drawn animation, paint on paper, and footage segments, Tal Kantor has crafted an extraordinary portrait of trauma and how its aftermath can span generations. It is, in a word: genius.

Karni Arieli and Saul Freeds Wild Summon got a special prize from this years jury. The fantasty natural history short follows the life cycles of salmon, except that the fish in this film take on the form of humans. Wild Summon premiered at Cannes and played in competition at Annecy over the summer.

According to event organizers, this years Animation is Film was a hit, and the still-young festival continues to trend in the right direction. AIF director Matt Kaszanek said in a release:

The only metrics we can rely on for determining success are audience size and growth, and by both of those standards, the sixth Animation Is Film was a triumph. We are so humbled and gratified at how AIF has been embraced by LAs community of cinephiles. Thank you to our sponsors, our filmmakers, and our audience. We truly could not do this without you.

This years feature competition jury included Variety chief film critic Peter Debruge, Oscar-winning The Lost Thing co-director Andrew Ruhemann, Indiewire awards editor Bill Desowitz, critic and historian Charles Solomon, Emmy-winning producer and Women in Animation president Marge Dean, Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (The Breadwinner), and Animation Magazine editor-in-chief Ramin Zahed.

The short jury was made up of Wreck-It Ralph and Zootopia producer Monica Lago-Kaytis, California State University Long Beach School of Art director Aubry Mintz, and Oscar-nominated My Year of Dicks and Moana writer Pamela Ribon.

2022 Animation is Film Winners

Grand Jury Prize

Chicken for Linda! (Chiara Malta, Sebastien Laudenbach)

Special Jury Prize

Robot Dreams (Pablo Berger)

Audience Award

Chicken for Linda! (Chiara Malta, Sebastien Laudenbach)

Shorts Jury Prize

Letter to a Pig (Tal Kantor)

Shorts Special Jury Prize
Photo: The Canadian Press Alberta Premier Danielle Smith gives the state of the province address in Edmonton on Wednesday Oct. 25, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jason Franson

Premier Danielle Smith says she would not call a referendum on whether Alberta should quit the Canada Pension Plan until there is a firm, finalized number on how much the province would get should it decide to go it alone.

Were hearing from people. They want to know what the number will be, Smith told reporters Wednesday after a speech to the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.

"Albertans will have a hard number.

"Im not going to go to a referendum if people dont have the information that they need in order to make a decision."

Smith said the number may come by agreement with Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus government and the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board or may have to be hashed out before a judge.

It may have to be a court decision because this is legislated under the CPP Act, said Smith.

"And if the federal government and the CPPIB will not come to the table and talk with us in a reasonable way to get us that number, then well probably have to go to a court decision."

Opposition NDP house leader Christina Gray said Albertans deserve to know the firm numbers before casting a ballot. She said her caucus will hold Smith to her word.

We need to continue to hold their feet to the fire because they are continuing to push an agenda that Albertans dont support (on the CPP)," said Gray.

Gray pointed out her caucus has heard from 30,000 Albertans in their poll, with 90 per cent or more calling for Alberta to stay in the CPP.

Smiths government has been consulting for more than a month with Albertans on the merits and drawbacks of leaving the CPP and creating an Alberta pension plan.

It has said Alberta is being shortchanged billions of dollars by contributing far more to the pension plan than it gets back and would fare better if it went its own way.

Smith launched the debate on Sept. 21 by releasing a government-commissioned report from consultant LifeWorks.

LifeWorks estimates Alberta is entitled to more than half of all CPP assets  about $334 billion  if it leaves, factoring in investment returns and compound interest.

With that figure, or with even less than that, LifeWorks says Alberta would be able to provide lower premiums and higher payouts.

Alberta seeks 53 per cent of the fund with 15 per cent of the CPP members.

Economists and analysts have delivered counter-figures.

The CPP Investment Board says Alberta is in line for 16 per cent of the CPP fund while other economists put it at around 20 or 25 per cent.

The province has hired former provincial treasurer Jim Dinning to engage with Albertans to gauge their views on the topic and then make a recommendation to Smith next spring on whether there is an appetite for a referendum on leaving CPP.

If there was to be a vote, the plan was for it to happen in 2025 and then, should there be a yes vote, Alberta giving the required three years notice to leave CPP some time after that.

The Opposition NDP, the CPP board and some callers to Dinnings recent telephone town halls have criticized the $7.5-million engagement process as a thinly disguised propaganda push featuring cherry-picked information and fudged figures to persuade Albertans to vote for an Alberta pension plan.

They point mainly to an online government survey that doesnt ask Albertans if they want to leave the CPP but instead asks them how they would like an Alberta plan structured.

The governments advertising focuses only on the benefits of an Alberta pension plan as outlined in the LifeWorks report, including the possibility of bonus payments for seniors. The LifeWorks report also cites risks and potential downsides for an Alberta plan, but those are not mentioned in the advertising.

Dinnings panel is also not tasked in writing with advising Smith on whether Albertans want to leave the CPP.

Instead, Dinning is mandated to provide information and recommendations on what is top of mind for Albertans when considering an APP.

In recent days, the issue has gained traction across the country.

Also Wednesday, federal Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland agreed to convene a meeting with provincial and territorial finance ministers to discuss Alberta's CPP-exit proposal.

The decision came after Ontario Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy called for a meeting in a letter to Freeland, saying Alberta's withdrawal could cause serious harm over the long term to working people and retirees in Ontario and across Canada.

Last week, Trudeau said his government will fight to retain the stability and integrity of the CPP, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre encouraged Albertans to stay in the federal nest-egg fund.
Photo: The Canadian Press Cameron Jay Ortis, a senior intelligence official at the RCMP, leaves the courthouse in Ottawa after being granted bail on October 22, 2019. A former colleague of Ortis, who is accused of disclosing secrets to people of interest to police, has testified in court that Ortis never mentioned taking part in undercover operations.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

A former colleague of Cameron Jay Ortis, who is accused of disclosing secrets to people of interest to police, has testified in court that Ortis never mentioned taking part in undercover operations.

Dan Morris told Ontario Superior Court that Ortis did not speak to him about contacting the targets of RCMP investigations.

The Crown alleges Ortis, a former RCMP intelligence official, anonymously sent classified information in 2015 to people who were of investigative interest to the national police force.

Ortis, 51, has pleaded not guilty to violating the Security of Information Act by allegedly revealing secrets to three individuals and trying to do so in a fourth instance.

Ortis's lawyers have indicated they will try to persuade the jury their client had the authority to take the actions he did.

Reporters and the general public were excluded from the courtroom for Morris's appearances Monday and Tuesday despite objections from media. The latest transcripts of his testimony, including one with redactions, were released Wednesday.

Ortis was officer-in-charge of the RCMP's Operations Research unit in 2010 when he hired Morris to work there.

It was responsible for assembling and developing classified information on terror cells, transnational criminal networks, cybercrime actors and commercial espionage.

Ortis became director of the unit in 2013, leaving in early 2015 to take French-language training before moving on to another intelligence role with the RCMP in 2016.

Morris assumed Ortis's duties at Operations Research, eventually becoming permanent director. He left the unit in September 2018 but remains a civilian RCMP member.

Morris agreed with the Crown's suggestion that Ortis was intelligent, detail-oriented and organized.

He recalled Ortis working on "bigger-picture stuff" while analysts on the team developed intelligence research projects.

In the first few years they were colleagues, Ortis worked long hours, he said.

"He was very often the first in to the office and often the last out," Morris said. "I'd say that began to change around 2013, where he seemed to keep more of his own schedule."

Ortis might come in a bit later and maybe leave a little earlier, he said. "He might say he was attending a meeting somewhere downtown. But ... over the years, his schedule became less regular and less predictable."

Morris recalled Ortis telling him at one point he ran about 14 kilometres a day, "and that he would do this for about 14 days straight, and take one day off of running."

Ortis was arrested and taken into custody in September 2019.

Under cross-examination Tuesday, Morris agreed with the notion expressed by defence lawyer Mark Ertel that around 2010 there was a sense that the RCMP "had to get out of the habit of thinking you can only arrest your way out of problems," and that there might be other ways of dealing with threats.

Morris said it was his understanding that Ortis had a friendly relationship with then-commissioner of the RCMP Bob Paulson that went beyond the usual chain of command.

Morris was also questioned about the origins and role of Operations Research. He agreed with the general suggestion that someone might misconstrue the limits of their authority in a job.

"Yes, people can make mistakes in understanding the scope of their authority," Morris said.
Photo: Court of King's Bench

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is nominating Mary Moreau, chief justice of the Court of King's Bench of Alberta, to the Supreme Court of Canada.

Moreau has been in her current role since 2017, when an official biography noted she has presided over French and bilingual trials in Alberta, where she has been a judge since 1994.

This summer, Trudeau's office had said the independent advisory body that was tasked with finding a new Supreme Court justice would consider candidates who are "functionally bilingual."

Moreau, whose nomination will be subject to a special committee hearing on Nov. 2, has also been a member of the national advisory committee on judicial ethics.

The seat on the Supreme Court has been empty since Russell Brown announced his retirement in June, ending a probe by the Canadian Judicial Council into an allegation of misconduct.

The judicial council had been examining allegations from a January event in Arizona, where Brown was accused of being intoxicated and harassing a group of individuals, which he denies.
Re. Eby calls out 'Swiss cheese' (Castanet, Oct. 25)

I sold all my revenue properties and will never again go down the path (of renting).

My No. 1 rule was If you cant pay, you cant stayunless the Residential Tenancy Branch gets involved, then they will let you stay for free.

The government needs to have landlords that want to open their doors and not continually beat their heads against the wall.

Even if all the short-term rentals were turned into long-term rentals which will never happenthat still would not fill the need for affordable housing in this province. The government needs to create, as in build, more low-income properties to fill the affordable housing shortage. What they are doing builds nothing but distrust by landlords.

Over-taxing landlords will not solve a problem. The ridiculous speculation tax didnt help and neither will this plan, but incentives might help landlords open their doors at reduced rates.

The (government) cant expect business people or landlords to give up taxable income and profit in lieu of subsidizing their own housing for low-income people. Instead, the (government) should look at property tax credits or income tax reductions for landlords to incentivize them to play ball.

What if a landlord, who reduces his rental rates to a level considered affordable, has the lower income generated from the suite become non-taxable provincially, and even possibly federally? That idea would have to be massaged into something practical, but apparently you catch more flies with honey.

If allowed to continue down this path what is next? Will the (government) legislate that home owners must give up their personal homes in order to let renters move in?

This whole idea of finding enough homes in our current inventory of rentals is ridiculous. The (government) is absolutely going down the wrong path and it has blinders on and will end up off this irrelevant path and deep into the weeds.

But then, what do you expect from government? Common sense?

Bill Ferguson
Photo: DARREN STONE, TIMES COLONIST West Shore RCMP Const. Nancy Saggar speaks about the case on Thursday.

A 37-year old Oregon man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for using social media to stalk and sexually exploit three B.C. teens, coercing them to send explicit images and then using those images to threaten them.

The three youth, ranging in age from 13 to 15 at the time, were in West Shore, Comox Valley and Surrey.

Kevin Robert McCarty, 37, of Happy Valley, Oregon, was sentenced on Oct. 13 to 20 years in federal prison, after pleading guilty to one count of enticing a minor online and two counts of sexually exploiting children.

Complaints from other youth on Vancouver Island and elsewhere in B.C. were reported, but there were no charges from those cases.

For more than a year, from July 2020 to November 2021, McCarty, who went by the alias Robbie MacKenzie online and lived with his mother, used various social media platforms, including Snapchat and Instagram, to coerce the three Canadian teens into taking and sending him sexually explicit photos and videos of themselves.

Once the youths sent photos or videos, he demanded more. If the teens refused, he threatened to send the photos and videos he had received to their friends and families, which he did on several occasions, according to the United States Attorneys Office in Orgeon.

On at least two occasions, McCarty told his victims they could either comply with his demands or commit suicide, said the U.S. Attorneys Office.

The investigation began when Comox Valley RCMP were tipped off in May 2021 that a local youth was being sexually exploited online. That investigation led to a suspect in the U.S.

Insp. Mike Kurvers, officer in charge of the Comox Valley RCMP Detachment, could not be immediately reached by phone Thursday, but in a statement, he lauded the work of the departments invaluable criminal analyst whose expertise played a pivotal role in the investigation.

Her meticulous work significantly contributed to the successful outcome, said Kurvers.

The Comox Valley Major Crime Unit has five investigators supported by a criminal analyst specializing in high-profile criminal cases, including sexual assaults and child pornography.

In the months that followed, additional reports were received by West Shore RCMP, Surrey RCMP and other municipal police agencies.

U.S. Homeland Security Investigations took over the case, with assistance from the Mounties.

On Nov. 16, 2021, McCarty was charged with sexually exploiting children, distributing child pornography, cyberstalking, enticing a child online, and transferring obscene material to a minor.

Two days later, Homeland Security Investigations agents served a search warrant at the Happy Valley residence McCarty shared with his mother, sister, and sisters family.

McCarty, who was visiting a cousin in Riverside, California, was arrested the same day.

West Shore Cpl. Chris Dovell praised the cross-border co-operation and investigative work.

Sgt. Dave Knight of the Surrey RCMP Internet Child Exploitation Unit also noted the importance of strong working relationships with international partner agencies to reach the common goal of keeping our children safe from online exploitation.

In 2020, Surrey RCMP implemented the first RCMP detachment level dedicated Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit. The unit now consists of seven full-time investigators.
Photo: E-Comm E-Comm, which handles most of British Columbiaas 911 call volume, is expecting a busy Halloween.

Emergency call takers are gearing up for a busy Halloween and are asking for the publics help.

Halloween falls on a Tuesday this year but E-Comm is predicting Oct. 27 to 29 and the 31st to be busy times for staff.

Extra resources have been called in and additional staff have been scheduled to respond to the increased volume of calls theyre expecting.

Carly Paice, E-Comm communications manager, says the public plays a big role in keeping operations flowing.

"With the anticipated high call volume, public assistance plays a key role in keeping 911 lines clear for emergency situations only, and directing other non-emergency concerns through the proper channels or online reporting systems, says Paice.

Last year, 17,000 calls were made to E-Comm from people dialing 911 on the weekend leading up to Halloween; this year, the emergency communications centre is expecting a 17 per cent spike in calls.

Our call takers and dispatchers will be working around the clock this Halloween weekend, connecting the public with emergency services across the province, whether it be police, ambulance or fire services, says Paice.

In order to keep the lines free for emergencies only, E-Comm is asking people to consider five things:



Prevent pocket dials to 911 by storing your phone carefully. If you do call 911 by accident, stay on the line so that call takers can ensure you are safe.

Be aware of your location in case you need to call 911. An exact address is always best, but cross streets and major landmarks will also help them find you.

E-Comm receives an increase in noise and fireworks-related calls each year. Noise and fireworks complaints should be directed to your local city bylaws service or police non-emergency line. In Vancouver, call 311.

Use 911 responsibly for police, fire or medical emergencies where someones health, safety or property is in imminent danger.

With many callers reporting noise complaints, higher call volumes are also expected on the non-emergency lines. Please consider creating a police report online if possible.



E-Comm also explains that it is important to call the right number if it is not an emergency as they cannot transfer callers to the non-emergency phone number.

In B.C., E-comm is the first point of contact for 911 callers in 25 regional districts. It provides dispatch services for more than 70 police agencies and fire departments.
CEMEX utilises by-pass dust for agricultural use

26 October 2023

CEMEX and waste management company Silverwoods are utilising by-pass dust (BPD) from the CEMEX Rugby cement plant for agricultural purposes, supporting the circular economy. Since 2015 nearly 130,000t of BPD have been recovered through the partnership.

BPD is ideal for use on farmland due to its high potassium and lime content, meaning it can provide a direct sustainable replacement for traditional fertilisers and lime. Additionally, by re-using BPD, CEMEX has been able to dramatically reduce the amount of process by-product it landfills; this figure is now zero.



Paul Fletcher, head of sustainability for CEMEX Europe, commented: We are very proud of our partnership with Silverwoods and the considerable positive impact their innovation and expertise has had on our ability to reuse BPD for other applications. We believe it leads the way in our industry and presents real potential to be adapted elsewhere across our operation; not only does it benefit the environment by reducing the amount of materials that need to be disposed of, but it generates a product that has a value for farmers and helps cut the use of traditional materials.

"Indeed, the value of this partnership demonstrates that to deliver true circularity, more industrial by-products, including those from different sectors of the economy, need to be used as secondary resources, rather than primarily be seen as waste. If this is to be achieved, a new perspective is needed to boost circular economy practices, with regulations and permitting supporting this proactively.



To further explore the benefits of using CEMEXs BPD in an agricultural setting, Silverwoods has funded two research and development PhD studies. The first identified the agronomic benefits of the land application of BPD while the second, which is currently ongoing, attempts to calculate how much carbon can be captured and sequestered from the land application of BPD through enhanced rock weathering and also via improved crop performance.

This research was recently recognised at the Eco Innovation North West Awards at the Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester, organised by Lancaster University, winning the Carbon Journey Award.

Published under
Village at foot of the Great Wall thrives with photography

People's Daily Online) 15:10, October 25, 2023

Hualougou village, nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province, has thrived on tourism fueled by the villagers' enthusiasm for photography, which has attracted shutterbugs and tourists from across the country.

Since the 1980s, when the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall opened to visitors, Chinese and foreign photography enthusiasts have flocked to Hualougou village, which is located in Bakeshiying township, Luanping county. Local villagers prospered from the ensuing tourism boom, working as porters and tour guides, and running agritainment restaurants and B&B hotels.

Photo shows an aerial view of Hualougou village, nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (File photo)

At the same time, many villagers have found great pleasure in taking photos of the Great Wall, and some even became experts in the field.

In 1998, a villager named Zhou Wanping captured the Great Wall against the first rays of the morning sun in a photo, winning second prize in a photo contest held by the United Nations. In 2001, Zhou's photos of the Great Wall won the Golden Statue Award for China Photography, the highest award for Chinese photographers.

Besides Zhou, many other villagers have also won various awards for their photos of the Great Wall, gradually earning a reputation for Hualougou as "a village of photography at the foot of the Great Wall".

In 2021, Hualougou village was designated as a famous cultural and artistic village of Chengde city. Meanwhile, the village established a photographers association. Among its over 50 members, two are members of the China Photographers Association and 10 are members of the Hebei Photographers Association.

A photo taken by Zhou Wanping, a resident of Hualougou village, shows the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county. (Photo courtesy of Zhou Wanping)

As villagers have shown greater enthusiasm for photography, the art form has played an increasingly important role in local people's lives, and grown to become a calling card of the village as well as a bridge between local photographers and shutterbugs from other parts of the world.

Instead of playing mahjong and poker, more local farmers are talking about photography techniques in their spare time. Their works have adorned walls and filled albums, capturing the Great Wall through all seasons and weather.

In March this year, photos of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall taken by 14 villagers were selected for a major photo exhibition held in Beijing. "That was the best encouragement and recognition for us," said Zhou Baoquan, one of the 14 photographers.

Photo shows a photography-themed statue in Hualougou village, which is nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo by Yin Shuo/People's Daily)

With photos building connections worldwide, tourism has burgeoned and the lives of local people continued to improve. Photography enthusiasts often line up at the entrance of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall at 4 a.m. under the stars to check in to the scenic spot, and local villagers who run B&B hotels usually guide guests to the best spots for observing the sunrise and sunset, sea of clouds, and other sights.

In an effort to further tap into its signature vibrant atmosphere for photography to promote rural revitalization, the village plans to build a base for academic research on photography to attract more tourists.

By making the most of its greatest feature in boosting revitalization, the village strives to motivate and instill confidence in villagers, inspiring them to envision and work together for a brighter future, according to Duan Jiulai, an official of Hualougou village.

The village will focus its efforts on the development of high-quality services covering sightseeing, culture, B&B hotels, and health care, in a bid to make visitors stay longer, said Li Peng, Party chief of Bakeshiying township.

Photo shows a newly built photography theme bar in Hualougou village, which is nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (Photo by Yin Shuo/People's Daily)

Lin Changyou, a resident of Hualougou village, introduces photos he took of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county. (Photo by Zhi Chunli/People's Daily)

Villagers of Hualougou village pose for a group photo at a photo exhibition held in Beijing. Photos they took of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall were displayed at the exhibition. (Photo courtesy of Zhou Baoquan)

Villagers of Hualougou village guide photography enthusiasts to a spot on the Great Wall before dawn to take photos at sunrise. (People's Daily/Zhi Chunli)

Tourists take photos of the Great Wall in the early morning in Hualougou village, nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (People's Daily/Yin Shuo)

Photo shows a parent-child amusement park of a resort in Bakeshiying township, Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (File photo)

Photo shows a B&B hotel in Hualougou village, nestled at the foot of the Jinshanling section of the Great Wall in Luanping county, Chengde city, north China's Hebei Province. (People's Daily/Yin Shuo)

(Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming)
Xinhua participates Saudi Arabia's Future Investment Initiative conference as media partner

Xinhua) 10:08, October 26, 2023

Ren Weidong (C), deputy editor-in-chief of Xinhua News Agency, attends the seventh Future Investment Initiative (FII7) forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2023. The forum kicked off on Tuesday in Riyadh under the theme "The New Compass." (Xinhua/Wu Zhongmin)

RIYADH, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- The 7th Future Investment Initiative (FII) conference kicked off on Tuesday in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh, with Xinhua News Agency participating as the event's media partner.

Xinhua's Deputy Editor-in-Chief Ren Weidong attended the opening ceremony of the conference.

Dubbed "Davos in the Desert," the FII conference is the largest international investment and innovation forum in the Middle East, attracting a large number of political and business leaders every year.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, FII Institute CEO Richard Attias said the future of human values is a topic of profound importance, especially as the world stands at the threshold of a new era.

He said that work should continue at an accelerated pace on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, and building strong ethical frameworks for technological use to safeguard human rights and dignity as well as to ensure transparency.

The three-day event this year brings together 6,000 participants from more than 90 countries and regions, and 500 local and international speakers from different sectors, said Attias.

About 300 Chinese delegates attended this year's event, doubling the number of last year, he said.

The FII conference is hosted by the FII Institute under the guidance of the Saudi Ministry of Investment. The first edition of the conference was held in 2017.

A man reads a magazine at the exhibition stand of Xinhua News Agency during the seventh Future Investment Initiative (FII7) forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2023. The forum kicked off on Tuesday in Riyadh under the theme "The New Compass." (Xinhua/Wang Dongzhen)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Hamilton County Coalition and the Drug Enforcement Administration will host National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at locations across Southeast Tennessee this Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Attendees will be able to dispose of unused, unwanted and expired medications and vape pens or other e-cigarette devices."For more than a decade, this event has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unneeded medicationsthose that are old, unwanted, or expiredthat too often become a gateway to addiction," organizers said.We are so grateful that we are able to provide this service to our community, says Hamilton County Coalition Executive Director Camilla Bibbs-Lee.Keeping unneeded medication in the home is a safety risk that can be avoided by bringing them to a drop-off site on Drug Take Back Day.Drug Take Back Day offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at more than 4,000 local drop-off locations nationwide. The Hamilton County Coalition is partnering with state, local and federal law enforcement agencies to host drop-off sites in Hamilton County and surrounding areas.Drop-off locations include:- Mt. Canaan Church  4801 SR-58, Chattanooga, Tn. 37416;- Parkridge Camp Jordan ER  483 Camp Jordan Pkwy, Chattanooga, Tn. 37412;- Food City  3901 Dayton Blvd., Chattanooga, Tn. 37415;- Food City  8634 Hwy 58, Harrison, Tn. 37341;- Walgreens  3605 Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37411;- Walgreens  2289 Gunbarrel Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421;- Walgreens  5301 Ringgold Road, East Ridge, Tn. 37412;- Walgreens  9307 S. Lee Hwy., Ooltewah, Tn. 37363;- Walgreens  5478 SR-153, Hixson, Tn. 37343;- Greater Community Church of Chattanooga  1817 E. 3rd St., Chattanooga, Tn. 37404;- Elks Lodge #91  1067 Graysville Road, Chattanooga, Tn. 37421;- Walmart  3034 Rhea County Hwy., Dayton, Tn. 37321;- Walmart  16773 Rankin Ave., Dunlap, Tn. 37327;- Leisure Time Bowling  2739 NW Keith St., Cleveland, Tn. 37312;- Spring City Police Department  229 Front St., Spring City, Tn. 37381;- Preferred Pharmacy  6206 US-411, Benton, Tn. 37307;- Grundy Safe Coalition  173 College St., Monteagle, Tn. 37356; and- Sequatchie Valley Baptist Association  300 Cornerstone Dr., Jasper, Tn. 37347To learn more and find a collection site near you, visit www.hccoalition.org/rx-drug-take-back-events
The annual Mecum Chattanooga collector car auction returned to the Chattanooga Convention Center again this past weekend, as the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival took over the streets of the Tennessee citys downtown region. This years auction saw nearly 400 vehicles sold in just two days, Oct. 13-14, with total overall sales reaching $13.2 million.Top sales in Chattanooga were led by a 2012 Riley Daytona Prototype IMSA Racer (Lot F126) boasting a new 5.0L BMW V-8 engine and 6-speed manual transmission that was formerly campaigned by Michael Shank Racing; the car sold for $203,500.A pair of Corvettes followed in top-sale slots two and three, including one vintage 1958 (Lot S123) that had been customized with a host of modern-day upgrades, as well as a nearly new 2023 Z06 3LZ convertible model (Lot S82) in stock condition showing just 23 miles.Other top auction sales included vehicles from around the globe, with highlights like a 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 (Lot S156) that sold for $167,750, a 2016 Porsche 911 Turbo S (Lot S213) that brought $115,500 and a 1990 Ferrari Testarossa (Lot S106) that sold for $105,600.The top sales at the Chattanooga 2023 auction included:1. 2012 Riley Daytona Prototype IMSA Racer (Lot F126) at $203,5002. 1958 Chevrolet Corvette Custom (Lot S123) at $203,5003. 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3LZ Convertible (Lot S82) at $176,0004. 2022 Mercedes-Benz G550 (Lot S156) at $167,7505. 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (Lot S76.1) at $145,75006. 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon (Lot S155) at $121,0007. 2016 Porsche 911 Turbo S (Lot S213) at $115,5008. 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air Convertible (Lot S118) at $112,7509. 1990 Ferrari Testarossa (Lot S106) at $105,60010. 1969 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible (Lot S158) at $104,500For access to complete auction results, sign up for a free MyMecum account at Mecum.com. Next on the Mecum auction calendar is Las Vegas 2023, which is slated to feature 1,000 vehicles on offer at the Las Vegas Convention Center this Nov. 9-11. For more details on upcoming auctions, to consign a vehicle or to register as a bidder, visit Mecum.com, or call 262-275-5050 for more information.
Hamilton County announces three local leaders have been selected for a national program on career readiness. Across the country, eight counties were chosen for the National Association of Counties Counties for Career Success initiative. The program recognizes the role counties play in streamlining pathways to higher education and employment.

The Hamilton County Cohort Members are:

Tucker McClendon: Deputy Mayor, Education & Workforce Development, Hamilton County Mayors Office

Alexa LeBoeuf: Director of Economic & Community Development, Hamilton County Government



Bo Drake: Vice President, Economic & Workforce Development, Chattanooga State Community College; Interim Executive Vice President, Tennessee College of Applied Technology

The year-long cohort will include discussions with national subject matter experts, visits to successful programs in peer communities, and development of an action plan to create lasting impacts on the local education and employment landscape.

We know that the future of Hamilton Countys economy will reflect how well we prepare students today with both knowledge and skills, said Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp. Through this cohort, our county will gain insights that should allow us to sharpen our approach to workforce development as we strive to ultimately connect our citizens with living wage jobs.

The C4CS initiative is designed to leverage the unique position of counties, which operate at the intersection of post-secondary education, workforce development, and human services. By fostering cross-systems collaboration and strategic coordination, county governments can play a pivotal role in connecting residents with family-sustaining jobs that meet local industry needs, said officials.

The culminating action plan will be the result of collaboration between Chattanooga State Community College, the Hamilton County Mayors Office, and the Hamilton County Office of Economic and Community Development, empowering residents by providing them with the necessary resources and support to access quality education and meaningful employment, said officials.

We have a unique opportunity before us to learn from counties across the country, who are leading the way in workforce development, and implement those proven strategies here, in Hamilton County, said Deputy Mayor McClendon. Its an honor to be a part of this program, and I look forward to ensuring a strong future for all workers in our community by bridging the gap between citizens and employers.
This article is not a pro or anti-writing on the legal and political status of the ex-president who currently has a few problems in the criminal justice system in 2023.

The topic to be discussed is the power of the media and how it can influence the political careers and lives of public individuals in the past and present.

Donald J. Trump has his media foes on the CNN cable channels, Washinton Post, L.A. Times, etc. (the progressive list goes on). Any reader can continue to daily update the ongoing saga both for and against the ex-president in 2023-2024.

From a historical perspective the life and controversial career of the late attorney and judge Raulston Schoolfield, (R.S.) (1905-1982) in Hamilton County and the State of Tennessee are somewhat parallel to Trumps problems.

Raulston Schoolfield was part of the lineage of a prominent family of lawyers and politicians in the Sequatchie Valley and Chattanooga.

His early life beginning with his birth in 1905 or 1906 was colorful, controversial, and full of political intrigue and difference of opinion by the citizens of Hamilton County, Tennessee, and Georgia.

He was a successful trial attorney. As a criminal defense lawyer his supporters stayed true to him even in adversity similar to that of the past president from New York.

Schoolfield initially received the backing of influential community leaders in his first successful campaign against the incumbent criminal court judge in 1950.

However that relationship quickly became adversarial and the local and state bar associations moved to defeat Schoolfield in the election in 1958 and to impeach (remove) him from office that same year in The Tennessee legislature during a six week trial in the summer of the same year.

There were 31 charges originally brought against ex-judge Schoolfield ranging from the serious charge of accepting bribes from a labor union to using profanity toward an assistant district attorney in a private club setting.

The Tennessee Senate in a hotly contested trial at the State Capitol in Nashville found Schoolfield guilty of three minor charges but acquitted him of the attempt to preclude his right to run for public office.

The state bar association proceeded to file a petition to take away his law license in an attempt to prevent another opportunity to run for a judicial office in the future. The legal organization was successful in that effort but Schoolfield began a second career of running for several public offices prior to 1974.

This caused a lot of uneasy concerns for the ex-judges enemies which increased substantially in 1964 when he was elected to the Hamilton County Council that was the governing body of the community.

When Knox Countys legislative delegation passed a Private Act (allowing non-lawyers to be elected as General Sessions Judge) in the third largest county in the state Schoolfield saw another opportunity to return to the judicial bench and to further antagonize his foes of the past.

He waited until the last hour on the last day to qualify for the position in March 1974 and his entry into a crowded Democratic Primary allowed him to win the nomination and then defeat a Republican opponent in the General Election.

The loyal devotion of Raulston Schoolfields supporters who believed in him in spite of any highly publicized weaknesses is reminiscent of the accusations faced by Donald J. Trump in 2023-2024.

To the surprise of some foes, R.S. was thought by many courthouse observers to be a judge who conducted his courtroom proceedings in a fair and impartial manner, except that he never backed away from his belief in segregation of the races.

Like Trump he was attacked by local and state media for his outspoken positions that accelerated into his race for Governor in 1954 in the Democrat Primary against Frank Goad Clement (and Gordon Browning) on the single issue of segregation/integration.

This resulted in a life long political feud between him and Clement who undeniably was involved in the impeachable proceedings of R.S.

Criticism by the news media and his opponents diminished over his second 8 year term as general sessions judge from 1974-1982.

He faced token opposition from a Republican candidate in the August, 1982 general election while running as part of a three person Democrat judicial team and was re-elected.

The anti-Schoolfield news media had one parting shot against the veteran lawyer, judge and politician when he died suddenly at of a heart attack at the age of 77 on October 5, 1982.

Schoolfield had attended a charitable event, Love of Chattanooa, honoring a member of one Chattanoogas prominent pioneer families for her many acts of philanthropy at the Chattanoogan Hotel. Sitting at one of the tables with him was a Circuit Court Judge (S.P.) who was also a lay Episcopal priest and the Hamilton County Executive (D.R.) who both verified that he had not been drinking or engaged in any inappropriate conduct at the public forum.

However a newspaper in Middle Tennessee deemed it necessary to take one last shot at the old warrior when it stated in an editorial comment on October 7, 1982 that Schoolfield, 77, died of a heart attack early yesterday after spending the night at a local night club.

One of the individuals (D.R.) reacted to the statement by said newspaper and wrote a letter that was duly reported as an Editors Note, Hits Inaccuracy. He also requested a retraction of the comments and that a copy be sent to Schoolfields widow at her home address. It was later reported that a correction was made.

The term enigma (difficult to understand) described Scott Raulston Schoolfield for his entire life (1905-1992)! (There is even a dispute about the year of his birth).

(P.S.- There are many different issues between the lives of Raulston Schoolfield and Donald Trump but there are also many similarities.)

* * *

You can reach Jerry Summers at jsummers@summersfirm.com
An employee at Target at 1816 Gunbarrel Road told police a black male had come in four times and stolen a total of $1,300 worth of items. The employee is unsure on who the suspect is. The suspect was caught on camera passing all points of sales and walking out of the building.

* * *

A man was officially trespassed from McAlisters at 2288 Gunbarrel Road at the request of management and for disorderly conduct.

* * *

Police responded to a disorder with a weapon at Mellow Mushroom at 205 Broad St. Police were told that a man was waving a knife with a 4-inch blade at two other individuals. Police spoke with the man who was down the road and waiting with his friend and his daughter. Police told the man to leave the location because he was obstructing the sidewalk. Police couldnt speak with the alleged victims because they had already left.

* * *

A woman told police an unknown man called the business where she works, while she was working and spoke to her. He claimed to be a law enforcement officer and told her that she had a warrant for her arrest and demanded that she send him $450 through Cash App. The scammer knew her full name, date of birth, address, where she worked and other information that he should not have known. She realized the incident was a scam when she was instructed to send money through Cash App and she hung up. The officer didnt find any valid warrants for the woman.

* * *

An officer saw a vehicle in the parking lot of a church at 7th Avenue and E. 43rd Street. The car was unoccupied and didnt have a license plate. The officer ran the VIN and verified it was not stolen. The owner of the vehicle then arrived and identified himself. He said his vehicle had broken down and he ran to the store to get some supplies. The officer ran the mans information and verified that he had no warrants for his arrest.

* * *

While responding to an auto theft, police saw the stolen vehicle, a gold 2017 Toyota Camry, hit a small tree in the parking lot at Parkridge Hospital at 2333 McCallie Ave. The small tree was completely knocked onto the ground and uprooted. Police provided Parkridge security with a complaint card.

* * *

A man on E. Main Street told police over the phone he had left his E-bike parked in the bike parking area and it was secured with a bike cable lock. When he got back to the bike that morning, he discovered the bike and lock were both gone.

* * *

An employee at East Hamilton Dental Panorama at 1309 Panorama Dr. told police over the phone she discovered damage on her vehicles driver side after it had been in the parking lot. There was a dent on both doors, with a streak and a scratch on them as well. She has gotten an estimate for $1,694.74 for repairs.

* * *

Police were notified that a vehicle had been unlawfully entered at the River Pier Landing parking garage at 191 Chestnut St. After reviewing the building camera footage, a black male had walked each floor of the garage, pulling on door handles. When he reached floor 3 west area, he was able to enter a GMC pick-up. Reportedly, nothing was taken from the vehicle. Due to the recent flurry of vehicle break-ins downtown, police wanted to document this activity. Downtown officers identified the suspect in the attached pictures.

* * *

A man called police and said the driver side rear window of his GMC was broken when it was parked in the Republic parking lot at 1366 Cowart St., on the east side of the lot. His property was moved within the vehicle and small items may have been taken, but he didnt know of anything with a high value that was taken.

* * *

A man called police and said that while his vehicle was parked in the Republic parking lot at 1366 Cowart St., the driver side rear window was broken and a paddle board was stolen.

* * *

A woman told police dispatch that she found her stolen Kia Sportage on Belle Vista Avenue with apparent damage to several of the tires. An officer arrived and saw the vehicle unoccupied with the described damage. The car confirmed as stolen through NCIC. The woman came and summoned her own tow through AAA. A1 Towing arrived and towed the vehicle back to her residence.

* * *

A man spoke with police outside of Kanku gas station at 1910 Market St. He said his girlfriend had picked him up from work and they drove to the area of Howard High School at 2500 Market St. to talk to some acquaintances. The man said his girlfriend drove off with his vehicle when he stepped out to talk to the acquaintances. His car is a dark blue Infiniti with the right tail light broken. He had tried multiple times to contact his girlfriend but was unable to speak with her. The man said he didnt want to press charges against her. Police put out a BOLO for the mans car.

* * *

A man on S. Moss Avenue, who wanted to remain anonymous, told police he saw a white male strike a white female as they went into a residence. When police arrived, they could hear a man and a woman in a verbal altercation over bills and money. Officers spoke with the man and explained why they were there and said they needed to lay eyes on the woman. The man called for her to come into the living room and she appeared to be physically fine. Police saw that she had been crying but didnt see any marks or bruising. They both said they were stressed about money and bills and that is why they were arguing.

* * *

A woman on Sharp Street told police she and her daughter got into a verbal argument. She said her daughter then punched a hole in her bedroom wall ($30). She also said her daughter is responsible for breaking a window in her bedroom ($25) and on the patio ($25). The woman said the windows happened months ago but now wanted to report it. She didn't want to press charges for the damages ($80).
11/3/2023

Fuller Road will be closed Monday from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for sewer work between Kelso Lane and Fuller Glen Circle. Local home owners will have access to and from their homes. Motorists ... more
When McCallie faculty members Caleb Bagby, Jessica Dobrin and Ashley Posey stand before their peers on Saturday morning at the National Science Teachers Association conference in Kansas City, Mo., theyll use terms such as intermolecular forces and positive and negative ions.

But its really all just science terminology for why a salt cube dissolves in water. And what that looks like when illustrated on a 3-D printer.

Weve probably been working on this since the end of last school year, certainly at the start of summer, said Mr. Bagby, director of McCallies Innovation and Engineering Lab. We learned wed be presenting at the start of the school year. Were teaching a new way to learn, and the software is free. This is a hands-on program on the leading edge of science. Hearing high school kids talking about enzymes is definitely exciting.

The program theyre promoting, which uses 3-D graphics to explain complex chemistry issues, has been dancing around in Dr.. Dobrins head for a couple of years, she said. Were trying to explain the intermolecular forces concept related to bonding. Our students have created some amazing 3-D animation with this.

The four individual videos all run less than 10 seconds each. They took several weeks to produce using Blender software. The key to the presentation is that Blender is free to use, so schools all across the country will have access to the same software that McCallie used without paying a penny for it.

Or as Blender says on its website (blender.org): Blender is a public project hosted by blender.org, licensed as GNU GPL, owned by its contributors. For that reason, Blender is Free and Open Source software, forever.

It also proclaims: Free to Use. Free to Change. Free to Share. Free to Sell Your Work.

But its those first three claims, free to use, change, and share, that are crucial to public schools with limited funds.

As Mr. Bagby said of McCallie and its sizable resources in creating this program: Couldnt do this anywhere but here.

Added Dr.. Dobrin: Were sharing this because its free. We have a lab with very nice equipment. But a lot of public school science departments dont have those resources. The Blender program will allow them to do this in their own classrooms. Its completely open access.

A whopping 10,000 science teachers are expected to be at the convention on Saturday. Dr.. Dobrin, wholl be presenting for the second time at an NSTA conference, said they wont be addressing all of them, But we should have one of the bigger audiences there. Honestly, I get more nervous on the first day of class each year than I do presenting at this convention.

She also wants to give special praise to McCallies Director of Faculty and Curriculum, Sumner McCallie, and Science Chair Michael Lowery for the flexibility and trust they have in us. They have full faith in the process, which leads us to try things were not sure will work, which is crucial in science. Sometimes you have to fail to succeed, and Sumner and Michael give us the space to do that.

Said Mr. McCallie when asked about Mr. Bagby's, Dr. Dobrins and Dr. Poseys presentation, "We are proud of our teachers for the innovative way they think about bringing science to life for their students. Technology can be used just for technology's sake, and it doesn't have much meaning other than just doing 'something different,' or it can be used productively to turn on that lightbulb of understanding and curiosity. I love watching that happen in our classrooms, and I love that our teachers go the extra mile to share their success with other teachers around the country."

One 3-D intermolecular forces presentation at a time.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) has honored Booker T. Washington State Park in Chattanooga with the Excellence in Innovation Award among the 57 Tennessee State Parks. The award is part of the annual Tennessee State Parks Awards of Excellence.

Booker T. Washington State Park puts good ideas to work in ways that make the experience for visitors more enjoyable, said Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner of Conservation at TDEC. We are proud of the team at the park, and we are pleased to honor it with this award.

The Innovation category of the awards is for parks that have demonstrated the ability to think creatively to enhance or improve their parks. The innovative project must be long lasting or far reaching.

Booker T. Washington State Park updated old metal signs with limited information to visually appealing signs made of reclaimed wood from the park. The signs were engraved with QR codes to allow guests to use cell phones, tablets, and other devices to access additional information. The park utilized aerial drone photography and videos of the park to develop content for social media platforms and email links to share with guests to provide a virtual tour of the park. The 353-acre park is on the shores of scenic Chickamauga Lake.

TDEC also announced awards for the best parks in the following categories: Pickett CCC Memorial State Park for Customer Engagement and Resource Management; Radnor Lake State Park for Interpretation; and Johnsonville State Historic Park in Sustainability. Seven Islands State Birding Park was named Park of the Year.
EQuota Energy is committed to providing users with the worlds leading smart energy management solutions. As an AI and big data-driven energy technology startup, it services the users at every stage covering both the energy supply and the demand side in the entire industrial chain. From energy efficiency optimization, operation & maintenance monitoring, to carbon emission management, energy planning, electricity trading services, micro-grid services, and others. EQuota Energy has partnered with Shell, General Electric, Wanda Group, New World Group, Huaneng Group and other renowned corporations in the industry.



The core team members of EQuota Energy are MIT graduates with excellent R&D capabilities. It operates on advanced AI algorithm models and big data technologies. EQuota Energy is renowned in the fields of energy management predictive model, deconstruction analysis, and abnormal diagnosis. It is also one of the first companies to apply NILM (non-intrusive load monitoring) technology to the energy optimization field. It reduces energy consumption through system optimization without changing users hardware.



EQuota Energy is driving the smart energy transition through innovation and technologies for a low carbon future.
Burning lithium batteries in cars can quickly become a danger to people and the environment. Previous warning systems react only a few minutes before a battery spontaneously ignites, the so-called thermal runaway. The Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM), together with Vitesco Technologies, a leading international supplier of modern drive technologies and electrification solutions, is developing an early warning system that indicates possible dangerous damage to the battery weeks in advance, thus helping to protect people.

The early warning system measures and analyzes the AC resistance and can thus register dangerous changes in a battery cell much earlier. BAM

Legal regulations in the European Union stipulate that an electric car must issue a warning signal to people in the passenger compartment at least five minutes before the battery undergoes thermal runaway. This is usually done via the battery management system (BMS), the electronic control unit of the battery. The BMS monitors the performance and condition of individual battery cells and cell assemblies.

Total loss of the battery almost inevitable up to now Previous warning systems register defective changes in the battery via sensors that react to suspicious changes in temperature or pressure within the battery. The disadvantage of this is that an alarm is only triggered when the battery is already seriously damaged. Thermal runaway and thus probably complete destruction of the battery are usually unavoidable at this point.

In cooperation with Vitesco Technologies, BAM is researching a warning system which indicates critical changes in individual battery cells earlier and thus helps to avoid total loss. The basis of the innovative early warning system is a process that continuously measures and analyzes the electrical alternating current resistance - the impedance - in the cell.

New system measures and analyzes impedance "A change in impedance can indicate various defects or undesirable conditions," explains Tim Tichter, who is conducting research at BAM as part of the project. "These can be caused, for example, by vibrations, shocks, thermal loads, material failure or even manufacturing defects. Regardless of the particular cause, however, a change in impedance can be expected in any case."

Until now, long measurement times have been necessary for meaningful impedance analyses. They prevent the implementation of such analyses in a BMS. The project team's innovative approach: it modifies the measurement methodology so that a high acceleration in recording and processing impedance data is possible.
Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology inducted five honorees into the colleges hall of fame during a ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 21.
An excavation conducted in an ancient Egyptian cemetery has yielded hundreds of unexpected finds. The most notable artifact that archaeologists discovered was a colorful coffin belonging to the daughter of a high priest.

Aside from the colorful casket, they found decorative ornaments, amulets, and stone and wooden coffinsseveral of which contained mummified bodies.

According to Egypts Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the 3,000-year-old cemetery was unearthed at the Tuna el-Gebel necropolis, which is located about 170 miles south of Cairo.

The cemetery dates back to the New Kingdom of ancient Egypt, which spanned from the sixteenth to eleventh centuries B.C. Researchers determined that the site served as a burial ground for high-ranking officials and priests of that time period.

The vibrantly colored, engraved casket was the daughters of the high priest of an ancient Egyptian god named Djehuti, or Thoth. This deity is frequently depicted as a man with the head of a monkey or an ibis.

Thoth was a significant figure in ancient Egyptian mythology and played a number of key roles. For instance, Thoth is recognized as the inventor of the art of writing and is also thought to have served as a representative of Ra, the sun god.

Two wooden boxes that held canopic jars and a set of ushabti sculptures were found next to the coffin of the high priests daughter.

Ancient Egyptians used canopic jars for storing organs that were extracted from the body during the process of mummification.

The lungs, liver, intestines, and stomach were removed in order to preserve them for the afterlife.

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| Israel Defense Forces / Twitter

In a shocking revelation, a Rabbinate corps member of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has disclosed horrifying details of the violence perpetrated by Hamas terrorists against Israeli civilians. An unnamed volunteer described it as worse than the Holocaust.

Shari, who did not want to reveal her surname for the sake of her familys safety, is responsible for cleaning victims' body parts for burial and shared the brutal truth about the massacre by Hamas through several media platforms.

I heard stories about Auschwitz as a child growing up in New Jersey. But what I have seen here with my own eyes is worse than the Holocaust, Shari who is originally from New Jersey and moved to Israel two decades ago, expressed her disbelief at the brutality she witnessed, comparing it to the stories of Auschwitz she heard as a child.

According to her, the atrocities included mass rapes so brutal that they resulted in broken pelvises, affecting women, grandmothers and even children. She also recounted witnessing decapitations, victims shot in their night dresses and infants taken from their mothers and beheaded.

The Daily Wire told in a recent report, Many of them (Hamas terrorists) also reportedly took a drug called Captagon, an amphetamine produced in southern Europe and the Middle East that has helped fuel terrorism. It is commonly referred to as the ISIS drug.

Colonel Rabbi Haim Weisberg also corroborated Shari's account, stating that there was evidence of "torture and savagery."

The attacks by Hamas on October 7th in southern Israel claimed the lives of over 1,400 civilians, including 30 Americans. In response, Israel has launched retaliatory airstrikes. Since its first launch, more than 4,100 people were killed and 13,000 injured in Gaza.

The opening of the Egypt-Gaza border allowed 20 trucks of aid to enter Gaza to provide some relief to the region. However, this is a far cry from meeting the urgent humanitarian needs. There are currently 200 trucks carrying 3,000 tons of aid awaiting entry. 2.3 million of the population in Gaza is in a critical situation, with half of them displaced from their homes. Hospitals are facing severe shortages and there is a widespread power outage.
Pexels/Eduardo Braga

A recent survey by the Pew Research Center reveals insights into the religious affiliations and practices among Asian Americans. While Christianity remains the most common religion, comprising 34% of Asian American adults, there has been a decline from 42% reported in 2012.

This trend aligns with the broader American population where a shift away from religious identification is observed. Approximately, one-third, 32% of Asian Americans now identify as religiously unaffiliated.

Similar to the trend among the general American population, this percentage has been on the rise. In the previous major survey of Asian Americans in 2012 conducted by the Pew Research Center, it stood at 26%.

The survey underscored the diversity of religious affiliations within different ethnic origin groups among Asian Americans.

Chinese and Japanese Americans show higher percentages of religious non-affiliation, with 56% and 47% respectively identifying with no religion. Chinese (47%) and Japanese Americans (58%) are also more likely than other Asian Americans to feel close to a faith tradition for reasons aside from religion, the survey reported.

Conversely, Korean Americans exhibit a strong Christian affiliation, with 59% identifying as Christian, predominantly Protestant and 34% identifying as born-again or Evangelical Protestants. Filipino Americans lean towards Catholic Christianity, with 74% identifying as Christian.

When including those who express an affinity for Christianity beyond formal religious ties, 81% of Korean Americans and 90% of Filipino Americans indicate a connection to Christianity in some form.

The variation in importance attributed to religion among Asian American Christians largely stems from the perspectives of evangelical Protestants. A significant majority of Asian American evangelicals, around 73%, emphasize the importance of religion in their lives. This is notably higher compared to approximately half of Asian American Catholics and only about one-third of non-evangelical Asian American Protestants.

Consequently, non-evangelical Protestants share a similar likelihood with the general Asian American population in deeming religion as very important in their lives.

The attendance at religious services among Asian American Christians follows a distinct pattern. Evangelical Protestants have the highest rate of attending the church at least or more than once a month (74%), while non-evangelical Protestants and Catholics have significantly lower numbers of 45% and 48% respectively.

Roughly 55% of Asian American Christians state that they attend church at least once a month.

Asian American Christians are more likely than the general Asian American population to say all or most of their friends have the same religion they do (38% vs. 30%). Evangelicals (45%) are among the most likely of all religious groups analyzed to say this.

Religious practices also vary among Asian Americans. Asian American Muslims (60%) and Christians (54%) are more likely to consider religion as "very important" in their lives compared to Hindus (33%) and Buddhists (31%).

Moreover, religious service attendance is higher among Asian American Christians (55%) and Muslims (54%), with Korean Americans being the most likely to attend services monthly (41%).

Hindus (79%) and Buddhists (64%) are most likely to have shrines or altars for worship in their homes. Filipino Catholics, in particular, exhibit a high prevalence of home altars (66%). Notably, only 15% of Asian Americans report engaging in both home worship and regular attendance at religious services, reflecting the diversity of worship practices across different religious groups.
Stephen Green | Christian Legal Centre

Stephen Green, a 72-year-old Christian preacher from South Wales, faces potential imprisonment for holding a Bible verse sign within a designated "buffer zone" outside an abortion clinic in Ealing, West London.

The Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), intended to make sure that everyone can use and enjoy public spaces, safe from anti-social behaviour, prohibits activities including prayer, protest and expressing about abortion service. The clinic, managed by MSI Reproductive Choices, was among the first in the UK to be put in place by the Ealing Council in April 2018.

"For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb, Psalm 139:13 was the Bible verse on Greens sign.

Ealing Council initiated legal action against Green under section 67 of the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. If convicted, he could face up to six months in prison and a fine exceeding 1,000 (approx. $1,200). Green recently appeared at the Uxbridge Magistrates Court, West London. p

I see this prosecution as an attack on the Bible and free speech. I am determined to defend myself and fight for justice, said Green, who leads the Christian Voice campaign group.

Green argues that limiting the ability to display a religious message in a public space infringes upon everyone's freedom.

Andrea Williams, the CEO of the Christian Legal Centre, criticized buffer zones as elements of a suppressive cultural trend that enforces compliance and stifles dissent. She contended that the PSPO effectively criminalizes any expression of disapproval towards abortion and creates an area where discussions or prayers about abortion are forbidden.

"There have now been over 10 million abortions in the U.K. since abortion was legalized in 1967. That is almost twice the population of Scotland and more than the entire population of London, she highlighted the staggering number of abortions, expressing her backing for Stephen Green on behalf of the Christian Legal Centre.
Church of England clergy could soon be authorized to pray for Gods blessing over same-sex couples, though not quite affirming their unions as they would a marriage, according to a controversial paper set to be debated at an upcoming meeting of the churchs national assembly, General Synod. Services with liturgy to bless the couples wouldnt take place until 2025.

In the 108-page document, bishops make the case for celebrating the faithfulness, stability, fruitfulness, love, faith, grace in same-sex relationships, with pastors finding ways to help people move forward in holiness in a world that falls far short of ideals in every area, without giving up on the idea of the ideal altogether.

They also speak of acknowledging and celebrating what is good in same-sex relationships even if the Church is unable to commend every aspect of some relationships.

Both conservatives and progressives have spoken out against the rationale for the proposals in the paper, calling it bonkers theology and another fine mess.

The report is the latest development in a lengthy and often painful process of discernment for the Church of England as it grapples with deep internal disagreement about same-sex relationships in what it describes as a rapidly changing social context.

In February, after eight hours of debate, the General Synod voted to welcome proposals by the churchs bishops to issue prayers to bless same-sex unions in church. This update, issued ahead of Novembers gathering, sets out how difficult the bishops are finding it to bring the proposals to fruition.

The new paper explores how the prayers might be approved under canon law, the legal framework governing the Church of England. To authorize new liturgy, the bishops, clergy, and laity in the General Synod must approve it by a two-thirds majority in two houses. This process typically takes years to complete.

Or they could bypass General Synod. They could introduce the same-sex blessing services under a part of canon law that allows ministers to use forms of service that are neither contrary to, nor indicative of any departure from, the doctrine of the Church of England in any essential matter. Under another part of canon law, the archbishops can approve a service themselves.

After the February vote, the bishops indicated that they might opt for one of the alternative routes, prompting the intervention of a group of church leaders, including several high-profile evangelicals. The critics warned that bypassing the General Synod would be unlawful, illegitimate and unconstitutional and leave the church exposed to significant legal challenge.

The latest decision has left neither conservatives nor progressives happy. The bishops have decided to commend a collection of prayers, blessings, and readings (Prayers of Love and Faith or PLF) that ministers can use with same-sex couples during a regular church service. This is described as pastoral provision.

This collection will not need to be approved by the General Synod. The paper acknowledges that providing prayers of blessings for same-sex couples who may be in sexually active relationships might represent a departure from the previous understanding of the churchs teaching. But they argue that this would not be a departure from the doctrine of the church in an essential mattera highly contentious conclusion.

When it comes to stand-alone services, where the blessing is the focus, the bishops have decided to seek approval of the General Synod. This might begin in February next year, but a vote on final approval wouldnt take place until 2025.

Given that last Februarys vote on same-sex blessings secured only narrow majorities in two houses, it remains uncertain whether the two-thirds threshold would be met.

It is clear from the paper that the bishops were anticipating criticism. The Bishops of London and Winchester, who wrote the introduction, explain:

We recognise that for some, pastoral provision represents far too little, and is considered deeply disappointing and distressing. We also recognise that others dispute the claim that this pastoral provision does not represent a change in doctrine.

But they argue that the fruit of their deliberations reflects significant disagreement within the church. They refer to offering pastoral provision in a time of uncertainty, noting that there exists a consensus for change within the Church but not a consensus on what that change should be.

Twelve bishops have already issued a statement earlier this month announcing that they are unable to support the decision to commend the prayers.

LGBT Anglicans and their allies have expressed disappointment at the content of the paper, with many describing it as a retrograde step for a church whose bishops recently publicly apologised for homophobia. Some suggested that for all its talk of pastoral provision, it offers no real change.

It is almost unfathomable, yet entirely predictable, that we have ended up exactly where we started, wrote Charlie Bell, a psychiatrist and priest in London. Out of years and years of patient work, all we can do is pray for people like we already could do, and now we are specifically banned from holding special services for them.

Other aspects of the work have also been pushed back, including guidance on whether clergy such as Bell can enter same-sex marriages, which is currently prohibited.

The motion approved in February was amended to stipulate that there would be no change to the churchs doctrine of marriage and that the final version of the prayers should not be contrary to or indicative of a departure from the doctrine of the Church of England.

The new paper repeatedly offers reassurance that the prayers do not equate same-sex relationships to marriage. It states that, in a service of blessing, rings should not be given or exchanged to avoid the impression that the service is a marriage service and emphasizes that the prayers fall short of affirming a couples entire way of life as made holy by God and blessed as a marriage service would do.

Helen King, a lay member of General Synod, suggested that the paper was all about  conservative fear and that any sense of joy, of celebration, of welcome, of blessing, has now disappeared.

The papers drafted pastoral guidance provides an idea of the sort of concerns that have been voiced by churches who will not use the prayers; it includes advice on how to communicate this decision to a couple and whether such churches could face legal action under secular equality legislation.

There is reference to establishing an independent reviewer who would hear disputes over the decision to use or not use the prayers. The paper also acknowledges that some Anglicans have called for structural differentiation, whereby churches who do not agree with the blessing of same-sex relationships might, for example, be overseen by bishops who share their convictions.

The paper has been published in advance of the meeting of General Synod in London next month, when members will simply be asked to recognize the progress made by the bishops since February and encourage them to continue their work on implementation.

LGBT Anglicans and their allies show signs of losing patience with the bishops after yearsand ultimately decadesof discussion, consultation, and study.

We have had enough, wrote Bell this week. We have been taken for granted in Synod, and you should know, bishops, that you are no longer guaranteed inclusive votes based on private assurances. You are called to serve and care for your whole flock, and that includes us.

For the majority of the English population, who do not attend church and no longer describe themselves as Anglican, the debate is unlikely to hold much traction. The rapidly changing social context to which the paper refers includes high rates of approval for same-sex marriage, while the majority of heterosexual weddings are now carried out in secular settings.

But for the Church of England and the Anglican Communion, the stakes are high. A statement issued on Monday, at the end of a meeting of Anglican leaders from the Global South in Cairo, applauded the stand taken by the 12 dissenting bishops and reaffirmed an earlier statement that said they were no longer able to recognise the archbishop as first among equals.

Among those present was Nicky Gumbel, a former vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton, a flagship evangelical church and pioneer of the global Alpha course. To date, Gumbel has sought to avoid taking a public stand on sexuality but was one of the signatories to the September letter warning that the bishops proposed process was unlawful.

For the bishops seeking recognition of their work to date, the plea is for understanding about the challenge of holding together a church riven by deep disagreement.

The Church of England is in a complex space, they argue, in which we want change but without changing the doctrine of the Church; we lament and repent of the mistakes of the past but are uncertain about the future.
After weeks of turmoil, House Republicans elected Rep. Mike Johnson on Wednesday as the new speaker of the House, an act the Louisiana congressman suggested was ordained by God.

I believe that Scripture, the Bible, is very clear: that God is the one who raises up those in authority, Johnson said in his first speech after being elected speaker in a 220209 vote. He raised up each of you. All of us.

Johnson, an evangelical Christian, peppered his remarks with religious references. He recounted the history of how the motto In God We Trust was placed in the House chambera rebuke of communism, which many associated with atheismand highlighted the Declaration of Independences use of Creator. He also noted the presence of Moses on the wall of the House chamber.

Through adversity, it makes you stronger, he said, referencing the three-week period in October that it took Republicans to elect a new speaker to replace the ousted Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

In a later speech on the Capitol steps, Johnson framed his leadership goals by citing Romans 5:34.

I was reminded of the Scripture that says Suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope, he said. What we need in this country is more hope.

Johnson has been tied to multiple Baptist churches over the years and currently attends Cypress Baptist Church in Benton, Louisiana, according to the Louisiana Baptist Message. He is also a former lawyer and communications staffer with the Alliance Defense Fund, which later became known as Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative Christian legal firm.

According to CNN, Johnson penned a number of editorials while working at ADF, including ones in which he decried homosexuality as an inherently unnatural and dangerous lifestyle that could lead to the collapse of the entire democratic system.

Johnson has continued to voice support for conservative Christian viewpoints while in office, even hosting a podcast with his wife, Kelly, a licensed pastoral counselor, aimed at providing an analysis of hot topics and current events from a Christian perspective.

Among other things, Speaker Johnson has repeatedly rejected many broadly held interpretations of the separation of church and state.

The founders wanted to protect the church from an encroaching state, not the other way around, he said during a September 2022 episode of the podcast.

He went on to argue that a free society and a healthy republic depend upon religious and moral virtue, arguing that society would crumble without it.

His views echo the writings of David Barton, a controversial Texas activist who has spent years railing against the separation of church and state. On Wednesday, Substack writer Warren Throckmorton pointed out that Johnson lauded Barton during a 2021 talk to a group of state legislators organized by WallBuilders, an organization founded by Barton.

I was introduced to David and his ministry a quarter century ago, and it has had such a profound influence on me and my work and my life and everything I do, Johnson said at the time.

Johnsons victory was celebrated by Brent Leatherwood, head of the Southern Baptist Conventions Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. Johnson served on the commissions board from 2004 to 2012.

Mike Johnson, a name familiar to many Southern Baptists, has been tapped to lead the chamber, and I want to offer my personal congratulations to him, Leatherwood said in a statement.

He later noted that his first Capitol Hill meeting as head of ERLC was with Johnson and lauded him as someone who carries an abiding devotion to our convention of churches, subscribes to the principles that are dear to so many Southern Baptists and has deep pride in our nation.

Johnsons views are likely to clash with that of many of his colleagues on the other side of the aisle. His election comes the same day as a House Subcommittee on National Security, the Border and Foreign Affairs hearing, which included a discussion of Christian nationalism between Rep. Maxwell Frost of Florida, who said he was raised Southern Baptist, and Amanda Tyler, who heads the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty.

During their exchange, Frost recalled recent remarks by Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, who declared that the church is supposed to direct the government, the government is not supposed to direct the church.

(The Bible) warns us against people who would preach of a Christ that differs from the true Christ we learn about in the Bible, Frost said. Thats exactly what Christian nationalism is doing.

Johnson also has ties to former President Donald Trump, having supported the effort to stop the certification of Joe Bidens victory in the 2020 electiona movement based on erroneous claims that ultimately culminated with the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol. Trump celebrated Johnsons nomination on Truth Social earlier on Wednesday.

Johnson ascends to the speakership after three weeks of chaos in the House spurred by the ouster of McCarthy from top leadership.

The resulting jockeying for power proved to be a surprisingly religious affair: When Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio vied for the chair, he was introduced by Rep. Elise Stefanik, who cited the biblical Book of Esther to insist Jordan was to be lifted up for the position for such a time as this.

When Jordan later failed to win the speakership multiple times, Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, who is Catholic, reportedly left a heated Republican caucus meeting saying he was so upset he needed to go up to the chapel and pray the rosary.

When Jordan decided to pursue the speakership yet again he did so after referencing in a news conference a verse from the New Testament book of 1 Timothy, saying he needed to Fight the good fight of the faith. (Jordan failed that vote, too.)
At least 18 dead, dozens more injured in Maine mass shooting as suspect remains at large

Updated 1 P.M. EDT, Oct. 26, 2023: The death toll rose to 18 killed in mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday night. Authorities are still searching for the suspect, Robert Card.

Original report:

At least 16 people are dead and dozens more injured after separate mass shootings at two recreational business venues in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday as law enforcement continue a desperate manhunt for 40-year-old Robert Card who has been described as a person of interest in what could be the states deadliest shooting.

None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is. We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and whole hearted people from our bowling family and community last night, one of the businesses, Just-In-Time Recreation, formerly known as Sparetime,said in a statement on Facebook Thursday morning. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We[re] praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts.

The Lewiston Maine Police Department announced just before 9 p.m. Wednesday that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Sparetime, a family restaurant and event venue and Schemengees Bar and Grill, which is just over miles away.

Schemengees Bar and Grill said in a statement on Facebook early Thursday morning that they, too, lost people.

My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turned upside down for no good reason. We loss (sic) great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this? Sending out prayers to everyone, the statement said.

As they hunted for Card and dealt with casualties Wednesday night, police urged members of the community to stay off the roads.

We are currently dealing with an active shooter incident (Schemengees and Sparetime Recreation). Please stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospitals, the department noted on Facebook before releasing a photo of Card two hours later, identifying him as a person of interest who is considered armed and dangerous.

In the early hours of the shooting, Androscoggin County Sheriff Eric Samson and a Lewiston city councilman said that as many as 22 people had died, according to the Sun Journal.

Card who lives in Bowdoin, was also described as a mentally troubled trained firearms instructor and a member of the U.S. Army Reserve in Saco.

He had only recently reported issues with his mental health including hearing voices. State police said Card spent two weeks at a mental health facility this summer after he threatened to shoot the National Guard base in Saco.

A white Subaru Outback police believe Card was driving was found near the Lisbon boat dock on Frost Hill Avenue near Route 196. Residents in the community were urged to shelter in place as the hunt for Card continued.

At this time, we continue to recommend that Lisbon residents continue to shelter in place with an emphasis on residents between Mill Street in Lisbon Center, along the Rt 196 corridor east to Main Street in Lisbon Falls. Businesses located within this area especially will mostly be closed until safety concerns have been addressed, the Lisbon Police Department warned in a statement after 4 a.m. Thursday. Your cooperation with this recommendation is greatly appreciated as we work with several other law enforcement agencies to assure the residents and businesses in the community can go about their daily activities safely. We will provide updates as soon as possible when the shelter in place recommendation is lifted.

Kathy Lebel, co-owner of Schemengees, told the Sun Journal that she was not at the restaurant at the time of the shooting but was told a person walked in and started shooting and staff ran out.

It was just a fun night playing cornhole.  Its the last thing youre expecting, right? Lebel said. I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.

Police are now looking for a blue Chevy Suburban with Maine plate 6625ZD as they continue the hunt for Card.
Christian student kidnapped; watchdog accuses Nigerian university of aiding forced conversion to Islam

ABUJA, Nigeria  Personnel of Kaduna State University have aided in the kidnapping and forcible conversion to Islam of a Christian student, according to a campus watchdog group.

Dorcas Adedayo Adekanola, a 20-year-old, first-year chemistry student at the university, was an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Students when other members noticed her absence last month, according to leaders of Campus Mission Watch (CMW).

Her parents received a phone call on Sept. 20 from Christian students saying they were distressed that she was acting strange before her disappearance.

She was always looking scared, which shows she was being threatened by the Islamists on campus, CMW leaders said in a press statement. Dorcas was also not seen on campus for some days.

After her parents were informed of her absence, they immediately called her mobile phone number.

Their daughters phone was suddenly switched off, indicating that the call was rejected by her abductors who kept her in a house of a Muslim cleric outside the campus, the CMW leaders said. We believe she was forcefully abducted and taken out of campus by the Islamists on the fear of parents of the Christian student withdrawing her from the university.

Fearing she had been abducted and forced to convert to Islam, her parents reported her absence to school authorities and the commissioner of police on Sept. 20.

The following day being 21st of September, Miss Dorcas Adedayo Adekanola was physically seen being conveyed in one of the Kaduna State University (KASU), MAJLIS buses belonging to Muslims in the institution at about 4:30 pm, to the campus Chief Security Officers (CSOs) office, the CMW leaders said, adding that her parents were quickly alerted and came to the CSOs office.

Miss Dorcas told her parents that she was taken to an imams house, the imam of Sultan Bello Mosque, in the city of Kaduna, where she was kept against her will and threatened not to disclose that she was coerced into embracing Islam, before being brought back to campus, the CMW leaders said. She also told her parents that one Muslim woman, Mallama Amina, an academic staff in the Department of Biochemistry, was appointed as her godmother, who facilitated her forceful conversion to Islam through the renouncing of Christianity and the recitation of Kalma Shaada, the Islamic creed.

The abducted student said Amina also taught her how to do Islamic ablution and prayer, among other Muslim practices, and gave her a lot in cash and kind, including Islamic clothing, according to the CMW leaders.

The university CSO referred her case to the Kaduna state commissioner of police, who in turn referred it to the Kaduna State Inter-Faith Commission. The commission was to decide her case on Sept. 29, but it has yet to make or reveal a ruling, and Adekanola has remained with her captors, CMW leaders said.

Dorcas remains with the Muslim leaders and has not been allowed to have any contact with her parents or other Christians on campus, CMW leaders said. This development has created fear in Christians on KASU campus, forcing some to want to leave.

A university spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on the case. A representative of the Kaduna State Inter-Faith Commission also did not respond to request for comment.

CMW leaders said a well-financed campus group called the Majlis Muslim Sisters is pressuring students and staff members to convert to Islam.

This group is made up of highly placed and influential female staff in the university. Some of them are professors, directors, senior lecturers from academic and non-academic cadres, they said. They are well coordinated and professionally structured. They have agents at the top management level, directorate levels, faculty levels, department levels, and even at the Student Union levels.

The CMW leaders said the Majlis Muslim Sisters, with the tacit support of Muslim leaders in Kaduna state and the Muslim-controlled state government, is implementing a plan to forcefully convert Christians to Islam through use of charms, fetish substances, coercion, threats and even hypnosis.

These campus Islamists are also pressuring Christians with abduction, isolation, deprivation, false accusations of blasphemy, slander, brainwashing, segregation and manipulation, CMW leaders said.

Nigeria led the world in Christians abducted (4,726), sexually assaulted or harassed, forcibly married or physically or mentally abused in 2022, and it had the most homes and businesses attacked for faith-based reasons, according to Open Doors 2023 World Watch List (WWL) report. It also led the world in Christians killed for their faith, with 5,014. As in the previous year, Nigeria had the second most church attacks and internally displaced people.

In the 2023 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria jumped to sixth place, its highest ranking ever, from No. 7 the previous year.
Israeli ambassador calls for UN secretary-general to resign after 'shocking speech' on Hamas

Israel's ambassador to the United Nations called for the resignation of United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday for what he described as a "shocking speech" suggesting the Hamas attack against Israel "did not happen in a vacuum."

"The shocking speech by the UN Secretary-General at the Security Council meeting, while rockets are being fired at all of Israel, proved conclusively, beyond any doubt, that the Secretary-General is completely disconnected from the reality in our region and that he views the massacre committed by Nazi Hamas terrorists in a distorted and immoral manner," Israeli UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan wrote on X.

"His statement that, 'the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum,' expressed an understanding for terrorism and murder," Erdan continued. "It's really unfathomable. It's truly sad that the head of an organization that arose after the Holocaust holds such horrible views. A tragedy!"

The shocking speech by the @UN Secretary-General at the Security Council meeting, while rockets are being fired at all of Israel, proved conclusively, beyond any doubt, that the Secretary-General is completely disconnected from the reality in our region and that he views the  Ambassador Gilad Erdan ???? ???? (@giladerdan1) October 24, 2023

Erdan asserted in another post that Guterres "shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly," and, therefore, "is not fit to lead the UN."

"I call on him to resign immediately," he added. "There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most terrible atrocities committed against the citizens of Israel and the Jewish people. There are simply no words."

Guterres' remarks came during Tuesday's meeting of the UN Security Council, where he condemned the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas targeting communities in southern Israel near the border with Gaza. At least 1,400 people, including 32 Americans, were killed, and over 200 were taken hostage.

The attack drew retaliatory Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, which the Hamas-run Palestinian health authorities claim has taken the lives of 5,700 people.

"Nothing can justify the deliberate killing, injuring and kidnapping of civilians or the launching of rockets against civilian targets," Guterres, a Portuguese politician and diplomat who has served as UN secretary-general since 2017, said.

"It is important to also recognize that the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. They have seen their lands devoured by settlements and plagued by violence, their economy stifled, their people displaced and their homes demolished."

"Their hopes for a political solution to their fight have been vanishing but the [grievances] of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas," he continued. "And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people. Excellencies, even war has rules. We must demand that all parties uphold and respect their obligations under international humanitarian law."

The @UN Secretary-General, who shows understanding for the campaign of mass murder of children, women, and the elderly, is not fit to lead the UN.



I call on him to resign immediately.



There is no justification or point in talking to those who show compassion for the most  Ambassador Gilad Erdan ???? ???? (@giladerdan1) October 24, 2023

An Israeli official told Fox News Digital that Erdan's call for Guterres to step down was the first time an Israeli ambassador has demanded the UN secretary-general's resignation.

Other Israeli officials expressed outrage in response to Guterres' comments.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen canceled a planned meeting with him, saying that the Oct. 7 attack shows "there is no place for a balanced approach" and "Hamas must be erased off the face of the planet."

Knesset member Benny Gantz claimed Guterres is a "terror apologist."

Dark are the days when the United Nations Secretary General condones terror.



Absolutely nothing can justify the slaughter of innocent civilians.

Now is the time to stand on the right side of history, or be judged by it.



Terror apologists cannot speak on behalf of the world.  ??? ??? - Benny Gantz (@gantzbe) October 24, 2023

The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM), a global coalition, echoed Erdan's sentiments and called on Guterres to resign.

"It is unbelievable and unconscionable how out of touch with reality the UN secretary-general is," CAM CEO Sacha Roytman Dratwa said in a statement. "Over the last couple of weeks, our generation has had a chance to reflect and better understand how the Holocaust was allowed to happen by the silence and complicity of global decision-makers and opinion-shapers in the face of Nazi-style atrocities."

Dratwa went on to accuse Guterres of "victim-blaming" and exhibiting "different rules for Jews among all the other peoples of the world."

"He sees the blood of masses of Jews spilled and can only think of the political ramifications," Dratwa said. "Would he have said that the Holocaust didn't happen in a vacuum, which is a repugnant but sadly increasing global sentiment? These comments are just a thin whisper away and hold the Jewish people uniquely responsible for their own massacres, rapes, beheadings, and kidnappings."

The Christian Post has reached out to Guterres' office for comment.
John Piper warns against communicating with the dead, says God 'explicitly forbids' interactions

Just days before Halloween, theologian John Piper has warned against communicating with the dead and explained why seeking messages from the deceased goes against biblical teachings and dishonors God.

In a recent episode of Ask Pastor John, the 77-year-old chancellor of Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota, responded to a question from a reader from the Gauteng region of South Africa, whose question revolved around the belief that when a person dies, their spirit or soul remains on Earth, requiring their family to retrieve it using a tree before the deceased can "rest in peace" and go to God.

This practice, the reader said, is rooted in South African folklore and is followed by several Christians who incorporate these superstitions into their faith.

Piper began by emphasizing that the Bible is clear on the matter: Dont pursue communication with the dead, because pursuing messages from the dead is evidence that biblical truth about God is either not understood or not believed. And in either case, God is dishonored, he said.

Evil is Real: Listen to the "Playing With Fire" podcast on edifi

The bestselling author presented four crucial points about God that need to be understood and believed in order to grasp why seeking messages from the dead is contrary to the Christian faith.

First, Piper stressed that, according to the Bible, when a person dies, God immediately takes their soul either to Himself or to a place of torment. Citing verses like Luke 23:43 and 2 Corinthians 5:8, he debunked the notion that souls can roam the Earth after death.

[That] part of the practice in South Africa is based on a misunderstanding of Gods action in dealing with the dead, he said.

Second, he pointed to explicit biblical prohibitions against consulting the dead. Citing Isaiah 8:19, he made it clear that God has strictly forbidden seeking messages from the deceased. The verse reads: When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?

Piper also emphasized that God has already provided abundant communication and guidance to His people. He stressed that seeking messages from ancestors displays a lack of trust in God's sufficiency to communicate what is needed for a fruitful, God-honoring life.

[Seeking] messages from ancestors, the Bible teaches, is a dishonor to God, who has communicated so lavishly with us about all the things we need to live the way he wants us to live, he stressed.

Finally, he highlighted that seeking messages from ancestors reflects disbelief in God's providential control over all aspects of life. He contended that God's providence, as stated in Romans 8:32 and throughout the Bible, should inspire trust that He will provide everything His children need.

Seeking messages from ancestors implies an unbelief in the glorious implications for Gods children that Gods providence is all-controlling and all-pervasive  namely, that he works all things by that providence for our good as we trust him, he wrote.

A recent survey by the Pew Research Center found that 53% of Americans say they've had interactions with loved ones who have died. Of these, 46% experienced the interaction within a dream, while 31% claimed it took place in some other manner.

Additionally, 34% of respondents said they've "felt the presence" of a deceased family member, 28% have spoken about their lives to them, and 15% felt that a deceased relative "reached out" to them.

Similarly, a 2019 survey from analytics company YouGov found that more than one-third of Americans (36%) say that they have personally felt the presence of a spirit or ghost. Just over one in 10 (13%) of Americans said they have communicated directly with a ghost or spirit of someone who has died.

V1 Church Pastor Mike Signorelli recently told CP that in today's culture, where people seek supernatural experiences in all the wrong places, pastors are going to have to get comfortable with tackling the issue.

As a result of New Age and tarot card reading, sage, and all these crazy things that people are getting involved with, unfortunately, for a lot of pastors, we're going to have to get comfortable with engaging the supernatural aspects of the Gospel, because people are going to all the wrong places for supernatural experiences."
Netanyahu: Defeating Hamas will make prophecy of Isaiah a reality Prime minister gives speech amid reports Israel agreed to delay invasion 'for now'

The Prime Minister of Israel invoked Bible prophecy Wednesday during a speech to the nation in which he said the Israeli military would soon launch its ground invasion of Gaza.

In a move that some analysts warn could escalate the Israel-Hamas war, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said while there will be a time for answers after looking into the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas terrorists at Israels southern border, the nation must prepare for what he called a battle between light and darkness.

"We all will have to provide answers to what happened on Oct. 7, myself included  but only after the war," said Netanyahu.

???? WATCH: Israeli PM Netanyahu delivers address amid war with Hamas



'We all will have to provide answers to what happened on Oct. 7, myself included - but only after the war' pic.twitter.com/qfjB5W3Udi  i24NEWS English (@i24NEWS_EN) October 25, 2023

Amid reports that Israel has agreed to delay a Gaza ground invasion for now until the United States can position its air defenses, Netanyahus somber tone during his address suggested Israel could take action in the days to come.

The prime minister said while the timing is still undecided, the Israeli government's final decision would be made by the war cabinet but declined to provide any additional information, according to Reuters.

Comparing Hamas to ISIS, Netanyahu said, "All Hamas activists must die, above the ground, beneath the ground, inside Gaza and outside of Gaza," adding that he and other Israeli leaders were working to convince world leaders to support our campaign."

"Hamas is ISIS, and ISIS is Hamas, he added, speaking in Hebrew. Our war against Hamas is their war as well. Our war against Hamas is a test for all of humanity.

It is a struggle between the axis of evil of Iran, Hezbollah and Hamas and the axis of freedom and progress."

The prime minister referred to Israel and its allies as the people of the light.

In Luke 16:8, Jesus spoke of the "people of the light": The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light.

"We are the people of the light, they are the people of darkness and light shall triumph over darkness, said Netanyahu.

He also called for national unity and said in doing so, the Jewish people shall realize the prophecy of Isaiah.

"It is now a time to come together for one purpose, to storm ahead and achieve victory with joint forces in a profound belief in our justice, a profound belief in the eternity of the Jewish people, said Netanyahu.

We shall realize the prophecy of Isaiah. There will no longer be stealing at your borders and your gates will be of glory. Together we will fight, together we will win.

Translated to English, Netanyahus statement appeared to be a reference to Isaiah 60:18, which says, Violence shall no more be heard in your land, devastation or destruction within your borders; you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise.

In that same chapter, just two verses prior to the one quoted by Netanyahu, is what most scholars believe is an Old Testament reference to the Lord Jesus Christ: You shall suck the milk of nations; you shall nurse at the breast of kings; and you shall know that I, the Lord, am your Savior and your Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob. (Isaiah 60:16)

The Pentagon is reportedly in the process of sending U.S. military advisers and air defense systems ahead of the expected incursion into Gaza. That effort will be led by Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who led special operations against the Islamic State in Iraq, The Guardian reported Monday.
Christians, do not be led astray by false prophets

When the disciples of Christ inquired about the signs of Jesus return, Jesus mentioned a number of things that would happen. He also warned them to be careful so that no man deceives them. Sadly, nowadays, too many Christians let themselves be deceived.

Many false Christs are with us now.

There are many people in churches today who do not know that they have been deceived by their false prophets who have replaced the biblical Gospel with the counterfeit prosperity gospel. The message of eternity is no longer preached in many churches today, and far too many Christians are building a worldly kingdom here on earth to satisfy their flesh.

In preparation for the coming of the Antichrist, many of his agents have gone out of the fold of Christ to establish false churches (1 John 2:18-19). The purpose of these false churches is to pervert the Gospel. These false Christian leaders gather people to preach a false gospel and persuade believers to abandon Christs calling for holy living and embrace worldly prosperity.

Materialism is a tool used by false teachers to program the love of money into the hearts of their congregants. As soon as mammons seeds germinate in the lives of these gullible followers, their minds become obsessed with the acquisition of wealth to the detriment of their eternal souls. Many of us want to have it all here on earth without giving a second thought to our heavenly home and the treasures we have there.

Christians who have been groomed to pursue money, signs, and wonders will joyfully embrace the Antichrist when he comes because he will have what they are looking for: And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men (Revelation 13:13). With the great wonders that he will perform many would be convinced to follow him instead of Christ. That is the natural result of a mind that does not focus on heavenly things but on earthly things.

Do not be deceived. Those who fall away may not know that they are falling away until it is too late. Always be vigilant. Always.
Being a pastor is an awful existence, JD Hall says a year after being removed from the pulpit

Just over a year after he was removed from ministry for abusing the prescription drug Xanax, and later accused of embezzling money from his church and physical abuse, former pastor and notorious polemics blogger, Jordan Daniel "J.D." Hall, says being a pastor is an awful existence and he would never want his son to follow in his footsteps.

Hall, who formerly led Fellowship Baptist Church in Sidney, Montana, and was known for his scathing criticisms of Christian leaders on his polemics website Pulpit & Pen, and, more recently, Protestia, was removed from his roles with those organizations after news broke about his arrest on DUI and a weapons charge last summer. However, no alcohol was found in his system when a blood alcohol test was administered.

Appearing with his wife, Mandy, in an interview with Protestias David Morrill earlier this month, Hall revealed he is now living a quiet rural life with his family and doesnt miss vocational ministry.

You know, I always felt like I was thrust into it. But David, I'm sure I've had conversations with you over the years where I talked about the stress and the burden of it.  To have 100 or 120 people with their problems somehow become your problems. Never knowing when the phone is going to ring, being gone from my family so much, Hall said.

And, you know, when you're there to solve somebody else's family crisis, usually the question on the top of their head at 2 o'clock in the morning is who's with your family right now? It's like, their concerns become your concerns, but your concerns are seldom theirs, he explained.

I don't miss it. And for the life of me, I can't figure out why guys who seem like they just can't get out and go do something else, why they would persist. Being a pastor, I've said this for a long time, it's an awful existence. It just is.

Hall pointed to megachurch leaders such as Mark Driscoll and Perry Noble who lost their ministries in public scandals but later returned to the pulpit with new ministries as examples of something he would not do.

I look at guys like Perry Noble or Mark Driscoll who just don't know when to quit. And I'm thinking, you know,  you've heard me say that for years, that if you're in the ministry and you become disqualified, get out and stay out, Hall said.

If nothing else, I hope to practice what I preach in that. It's the last thing I want to do. And it's not as though there aren't blessings that are associated with it [preaching]. But I think I've surprised people for years that I've talked about my son, saying the last thing I want him to be is a pastor, he said. That life is hard. I don't miss it.

A report from the Sidney Police Department cited by The Sidney Herald said Hall was arrested on May 11, 2022, at approximately 11 p.m. on suspicion of carrying a concealed weapon and multiple traffic violations while driving under the influence.

An incident report shows that when police approached Hall, he spoke slowly, his eyes were watery, closed slowly and deliberately, and his speech was slurred and mumbled.

He also stumbled, displayed poor balance, and performed poorly on a field sobriety test. No alcohol was found in his system when a blood alcohol test was administered. He also had a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Shield handgun, which was found under his coat in an inside-the-waistband holster during his arrest, the report added.

Fellowship Baptist Church leaders say they were unaware of Hall's addiction to Xanax when they defended him publicly and rejected his initial offer to resign.

As the scandal erupted, Hall was also accused of physically assaulting his wife, Mandy, and son, and embezzling $10,000 from his church.

When asked how she was doing a year outside of ministry, Mandy Hall said the change of pace has been a good one for her family.

It's a good change. I don't really miss much about it [ministry], she said. We have a really good church we go to now. I love our pastor, good solid Bible preaching man who stands up for God's Word, and I appreciate that. But it's really hard to get back into a church. It's hard to let our guard down, to be really active. So I'm hoping that time will heal that. God has already healed a lot of it, but it just gets challenging sometimes.

A recent Barna study showed that as American pastors continue to skew older, with an average age of 52, a majority now say it is becoming increasingly difficult to find younger replacements willing to do their jobs as they prepare to retire.

Researchers found that some 75% of the pastors in the study at least somewhat agree with the statement that "It is becoming harder to find mature young Christians who want to be pastors."

About a third of respondents "strongly agreed" that it's becoming harder to find young Christians to be pastors, up from 24% in 2015.

An October 2021 Barna survey also showed that nearly four out of 10 pastors (38%) said they were "seriously considering" leaving full-time ministry, which was a significant increase from the 29% of pastors who reported feeling this way several months earlier in January 2021.

As the world was still reeling from the pandemic in 2022, some Christian denominations, such as the progressive, LGBT-affirming Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, reported that they were already in the throes of a succession crisis with a national shortage of "at least 600" pastors.
James MacDonalds PTSD goes on trial as he seeks to avoid prison for assaulting woman

A California judge ruled Wednesday that Harvest Bible Chapel founder James MacDonald's diagnosed post-traumatic stress disorder makes him eligible for a mental health diversion program that would keep him out of prison for allegedly attacking a 59-year-old woman in a Corona parking lot earlier this year and causing her "great bodily harm." The San Diego County District Attorney's office is contesting the decision.

In a recording of MacDonald's mental health diversion hearing first highlighted by The Roys Report, San Diego County Superior Court Judge Carlos Varela said the attorney for the former leader of Harvest Bible Chapel in greater Chicago made a prima facie showing that he was both an eligible and suitable candidate for the program.

MacDonald is currently facing seven years in prison for the felony assault and battery of Barbara Bass in March.

The former megachurch pastor's attorney, Marc Carlos, highlighted in the evidence presented before the court, including testimony from mental health experts, that MacDonald was first diagnosed with PTSD in 2020 and as recently as 2023.

He also explained that MacDonald's PTSD was developed under the weight of online criticism, including news reporting that came with his celebrity status, as well as underhanded dealings by his former church community.

Carlos argued that before the 63-year-old MacDonald's attack on Bass in March, which Assistant District Attorney Alexis Lamprea said caused the woman to be hospitalized for 21 days, he was an upstanding husband, father and grandfather with "with no record, no criminal history."

"So if you think about it this way, 50 years, roughly 50 years, adult male, he's had no incidence of violence, no incidence of any type of criminal history, no substance abuse, domestic violence, nothing. He's been married for 40 years to his wife, who is here today," Carlos argued.

Even though MacDonald was ousted in 2019 as senior pastor of his once 15,000-member multi-campus church and accused of being a gun-toting bully who once sought to hire a hitman to commit murder, Carlos argued that MacDonald had "basically done everything" right and was a victim of his church and critics.

"All of the things that I'm talking about before were taken away as a result of some kind of underhanded dealings with other church members," Carlos told the judge.

"It's really, as we've shown in our papers here, there was really bad reporting that went on as well as internet trolling that went on, which undermined his ministry, not to mention his mental health," he continued. "As a result of the lawsuits and the constant harassment he gets on the internet, he developed the symptoms we've seen here today."

Reading from the report of a clinical psychologist noted as "Dr. Anderson," which framed the work of journalist Julie Roys as part of the reason MacDonald developed PTSD, it was claimed that MacDonald's attack on Bass was a "function of PTSD."

"It is the examiner's professional opinion that James's reaction is a function of PTSD. And he's talking about his reaction to the alleged offense or his reaction when this incident happened. Once the woman in the car in front of him got out of the car and moved towards him in an angry and agitated state, the years of traumatic memories of being vilified by Julie Roys rushed back to him and triggered a fight or flight response," Anderson's report said. "Feeling powerless and misunderstood and essentially trapped in his truck, he got out of the vehicle to fight back against his accuser."

In order to qualify under California law for the mental health diversion program, Varela explained that he had to consider both MacDonald's eligibility  having a diagnosed mental health disorder  as well as his suitability for the program. On the face of it, he said, MacDonald had met both standards.

The American Psychiatric Association defines PTSD as "a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, series of events or set of circumstances. An individual may experience this as emotionally or physically harmful or life-threatening and may affect mental, physical, social, and/or spiritual well-being."

"According to the statute, he has been diagnosed with a mental health disorder and the Courts shall find that the defendant's mental health disorder was a significant factor unless there's clear and convincing evidence otherwise. At this point, I haven't seen that clear and convincing evidence otherwise," Varela said.

The judge further argued that MacDonald's background, as presented by his attorney, also makes him a suitable candidate for the diversion program.

The assistant district attorney, however, strongly disagreed.

"While the defendant was diagnosed by an expert with PTSD, the people do not believe that the PTSD was a significant factor in the crime committed. It is the people's position that the crime committed was a willful and callous act that the defendant thought about just based off the facts," Lamprea said.

"The defendant bumped the victim's car, the victim got out of her car to keep the defendant from leaving, the defendant got out of his truck, runs towards the victim, which they fell to the ground, and the victim sustained significant injuries that she was in the hospital for 21 days," the assistant district attorney said.

Lamprea said Bass is still receiving physical therapy and only recently stopped using a walker to get around her house.

"The PTSD portion that the mental health expert opined is based off some reporting or trolling that happen toward the defendant online. The defendant, to my knowledge, does have a larger following. A lot of people know him. He is a pastor with a following, and with that following comes people expressing their opinions," she said.

She argued that the opinions that were expressed about MacDonald were about his behavior.

"They're members of his community, and many of them were negative towards the defendant based off of his behavior. Now, whether the PTSD can come from somebody saying something about him online, that's for an expert to opine, that is something that the people, if the court is going to grant the prima facie, we would be asking for the contested hearing so we could look into hiring our own expert," Lamprea argued. "As it stands, the people do not agree that his PTSD played a significant factor in the crime committed. The people believe the crime was a willful and thought-out crime that the defendant committed."

The prosecutor also argued that MacDonald would not be a suitable candidate for the diversion program because he was previously in treatment multiple times and the treatment was unsuccessful in changing his behavior.

"He's already been unsuccessful on treatment multiple times. And if the defendant has had three years since his diagnosis or previous diagnosis in 2020, now we're in 2023, obviously, whatever he was doing in between that time hasn't affected him in a good, in a positive way, or helped his mental health diagnosis in a positive way as we are now here on this crime, and his behavior in this crime was very egregious," Lamprea said.

"He acted in a callous and egregious nature. And so for those reasons, the people would be asking the court to deny the defendant's request for mental health diversion."

A hearing to contest the judge's decision is scheduled for Feb. 28, 2024.
Ministry leader shares tips for Christians ministering to the LGBT community

The leader of a ministry aimed at witnessing to the LGBT community recently sat down with Jackie Hill Perry, who previously identified as a lesbian, to share how the Church can best minister to those who struggle with same-sex attraction.

Preston Sprinkle, a Biblical scholar and president of The Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender, joined Perry and her husband for an episode of the With The Perrys podcast released earlier this month.

Sprinkle shared that while he believes that homosexuality is a sinful act that goes against Gods original design for marriage, there needs to be grace and mercy guiding Christians when preaching to the LGBT community.

Oftentimes, we just rely on citing the verses or stating the analytical theological point we agree with and we don't realize we're talking to a really complex human person that oftentimes has a very complex story, Sprinkle said.

We've got our interpretive lenses are just so colored by our experience, our background, our emotions, our hopes, our fears. What we want to believe. And so, I think it's important to consider all those things."

Sprinkle stressed that "we need to get to know who it is we're talking about" and "to be curious about their story and what's going on."

"It doesn't change the content of what we are going to say. But, maybe it might change the shape of how we go about saying it," he added. He noted that Paul, Jesus and other biblical figures understood "the context in which they're in and they present truth in a way that it's contextualized.

Sprinkle said Christians need to be aware that there are certain triggers" that have the potential to make the LGBT community turned off by preaching, noting that "for each person that might be different."

"One trigger that is a real subtle one is simply the word homosexual. Instead of gay, or even with younger people, sometimes they like the word queer,' Sprinkle said.

If you get up and start talking about how we should love homosexual people  anybody who is affirming of same-sex marriage, is gay, maybe younger, they're going to hear that word and there's kind of like, Oh, this person's out of touch.'"

According to Sprinkle, "most people in the community don't use that word" and that it is "usually a word used about them" that is "from an us versus them perspective."

"I know a lot of people who use that word. They don't mean anything by it, but it's just kind of outdated. It's not what most gay people use to refer to themselves, he said.

Sprinkle and the Perrys discussed how, on some occasions, people will engage in a same-sex relationship with another person, and they believe it is permissible if they pursue holiness by not engaging in sex.

In some cases, according to Perry, people in those scenarios will talk about girl friends, but not girlfriends or a covenant-friendship-type-of-situation" instead.

Sprinkle replied by noting that "this is a live conversation within" those who are LGBT-identified but are also "committed to a traditional sexual ethic."

"I want to maintain the sanctity of marriage and not engage in or make any other relationship look like that, mimic it, Sprinkle said.

That clearly is sending a signal in our culture that this is, it's sort of mimicking, mirroring marriage in a way that I think is just, at the very least, unhelpful, it's just like, why do that?

Sprinkle said that while Jesus never explicitly mentions same-sex relationships, leading some to claim that He would be OK with such unions, He clearly endorses the biblical definition of marriage.

He actually addresses more clearly than anybody else in the Bible the fundamental question we should be asking, it's because people don't ask that question. They think all this talk about marriage, they just don't think it's relevant. But He clearly said marriage is between a man or woman, in Mark 10 and Matthew 19, Sprinkle said.

Sprinkle stated that "there's not a single positive reference from a Jewish writer 500 years on either side of Jesus that said anything positive about same-sex sexual relationships."

When it came to same-sex relationships, there was no debate," he said. "When we look at what Jesus addresses in the Gospels, He's often addressing issues that were debated within Judaism about divorce and Sabbath and this and temple and, and all these things."

"He's not going to preach a sermon talking about something that is just nonexistent in Judaism at that time.
Natalie Grant praises Netflix series 'All the Light We Cannot See' for elevating good, hope amid darkness

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  Christian artist Natalie Grant hosted a discussion surrounding the Netflix adaptation of the novel All the Light We Cannot See, commenting on how the series reminds viewers of the power of words and the possibility of hope even amid darkness.

On Monday, Grant, along with bloggers Hunter Premo and Jessica Turner, hosted a screening of the four-part series, which hits Netflix on Nov. 2 and stars Aria Mia Loberti, Louis Hofmann, Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie.

Directed by Shawn Levy, All the Light We Cannot See follows the story of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl and her father, Daniel LeBlanc, who flee German-occupied Paris with a priceless diamond to keep it from falling into the hands of the Nazis.

While pursued by a Nazi officer who seeks to possess the stone for his own selfish means, Marie-Laure and Daniel find refuge in St. Malo, where they take up residence with a reclusive uncle who transmits clandestine radio broadcasts as part of the Resistance. Here, Marie-Laure meets Werner, a brilliant teenager enlisted by Hitlers regime to track down illegal broadcasts. The two strike up a friendship that highlights the power of human connection in even the darkest of circumstances.

Following a screening of the series, Grant, a Grammy-nominated artist, said she was struck by the fortitude of Marie-Laure as well as the power of words. She emphasized how the protagonist believed in her own strength, a belief instilled by her father's words, even when she couldn't see him.

What struck me about the series was the power of words. The fact that she believed that she could withstand. Not just the character but the actress. Marie says, In this time of stupid darkness what are we saying? and I find that so timely. We have so much power in our words.

I think about just the power of words and what we speak over people. Obviously, the general thinking is, what are we saying online  but Im not talking about the big, Im talking about in our circles. What are we saying to the people that we love in our communities, in our families, in our circles? What are we speaking? The Bible even says, 'The power of life and death is in the tongue.' (Proverbs 18:21) And there was just something about the whole show, thinking about the commonality between even the main girl and the soldier, it was the power of words.

The Netflix series also marks the first production of this size and scope to cast blind roles authentically with blind actors. Both Nell Sutton, the actress who plays young Marie-Laure, and Loberti are vision-impaired.

Released in 2014, All the Light We Cannot See was on The New York Times bestseller list for over 200 weeks and sold over 15 million copies. The book has been praised by Christian critics for elevating kindness and the goodness of humanity in the face of unthinkable evil.

Doerr, who was raised Catholic, previously credited Christian author C.S. Lewis as being one of his earliest literary influences.

The series also explores the influence of parents and mentors in shaping a person's character. Grant, who attended the event with her husband and daughter, praised the intentional and loving parenting portrayed in the story. She highlighted the importance of quality time spent with loved ones and the impact it can have on a person's life.

Everything [the dad] did was so intentional in the way that he loved her, and  just taking the time, Grant said. It's not the quantity of time always, it's the quality, and just the way that he invested in her.

In a previous interview with The Christian Post, Levy, a father himself, said hes always loved movies, film and television shows that can be for everyone, adding: It doesn't mean that I make movies to pontificate or to preach about a certain set of values. But I do believe in the value of family connection, and I make movies that show those connections, and my real goal is to make movies that foster those connections.

I like movies and shows that we can watch together, and I know how rare they are, he said. I don't know what happened to that genre. But if you show me a movie that I can watch with my daughter and my dad, that can span generations, that's a gift to us as a family because that becomes a shared experience that becomes a shared family memory.

"All the Light We Cannot See" hits Netflix on Nov. 2.
Christian academy in Colorado can get state funding while hiring only believers, court rules

A Christian academy doesn't have to hire non-believers or compromise its biblical stance on sexual ethics to be eligible for a Colorado preschool funding program, according to a recent court order.

United States District Judge Daniel Domenico issued a ruling last week in the case of Darren Patterson Christian Academy v. Lisa Roy et al, in which he granted a preliminary injunction in favor of the preschool.

At issue was when DPCA attempted to apply for funding under Colorados universal preschool program and was denied an exemption to the states antidiscrimination rules.

Based in Chaffee County and enrolling students from preschool to middle school, DPCA only hires Christians for its staff and requires employees to avoid sexual activity outside of traditional marriage.

Domenico ruled that the academy has standing to sue and expressed concern over the states apparent refusal to clearly explain whether or not the antidiscrimination policy would force the Christian school to abandon its religious beliefs.

If Defendants would concede that having the policies alone is not a violation, that would significantly bolster their standing argument. But they have refused to make that concession, wrote Domenico.

Plaintiff credibly fears any number of consequences under the program, including expulsion, termination of the program agreement, withholding of future funds, payment of damages owed to the state, or even simply an investigation of its practices.

The ruling also concluded that DPCA is likely to succeed on its claims arising from the First Amendment religion clauses, noting that Colorados non-discrimination policy likely violates Plaintiffs rights by interfering with the schools selection of key employees in accordance with its religious convictions under the ministerial exception.

Plaintiff explicitly bases its hiring decisions on religious criteria and cannot put aside those criteria without abandoning its religious beliefs, the court continued.

Requiring the school to hire its teachers or other ministers without discriminating on the basis of religion, therefore, would likely violate Plaintiffs free exercise of religion, as protected by the ministerial exception.

The Alliance Defending Freedom, a conservative legal group that is helping to represent the Christian school, released a statement on Monday celebrating the court's decision.

The government cannot force religious schools to abandon their beliefs and exercise to participate in a public benefit program that everyone else can access, said ADF Senior Counsel Jeremiah Galus, as quoted in the statement.

The U.S. Supreme Court has reaffirmed this constitutional principle multiple times, most recently last year, and now thankfully, so has this court.

DPCA, which filed its lawsuit in June, is not the only Christian academic institution legally challenging Colorados refusal to give religious exemptions to its preschool funding program.

St. Mary Catholic Parish in Littleton and St. Bernadette Catholic Parish in Lakewood, which both operate preschools in the Denver metropolitan area, sued the state in August.
Texas Baptist Men provides thousands of meals in Israel after Hamas attack

Within 48 hours of Hamas rockets exploding in Israel, volunteers from Texas Baptist Men were preparing over 2,000 meals a day for war victims in Israel and continue to provide thousands of meals a day throughout the conflict.

Volunteers are providing meals to people who have lost their homes to the rockets or have seen their neighborhoods destroyed by them. TBM also is feeding hospital staff as well as first responders.

The meals are being distributed by volunteers who are going into hot spots where there are displaced people, said Gary Finley, who leads TBM volunteers in Israel. Those are areas where homes have been damaged or destroyed and are prone to missile attacks. No TBM volunteers are placed in harms way.

Finley described the situation as very fluid, and the team is prepared to move to another location where they can continue serving displaced citizens, particularly if the violence escalates.

Were playing it by ear, he said. Pray for whatever God has in store. Pray for patience because we dont know from one day to the next what that day will bring.

The volunteers are putting their faith into action, said TBM Executive Director and CEO Mickey Lenamon.

Christ calls each of us to help the hurting, he said. A lot of people are hurting in Israel and surrounding areas. God cares deeply about them and is sending us to minister in His name. In very difficult times, TBM volunteers are shining the light of Christ brightly.

John-Travis Smith, TBM associate executive director who coordinates Israel relief, said: We have trained in Israel for years to deploy like this. In the middle of all thats happening, TBM is delivering help, hope and healing.

TBM volunteers are working alongside an Israeli partner in a secure location. The volunteers are rotating in and out of Israel, with 20 in place on Oct. 24 and another team slated to head there in early November.

In addition to the mass-feeding volunteers, TBM provided $150,000 to transport medical professionals from the United States to help treat people affected by the war.

TBM began its Israeli partnership in 2018 to provide mass feeding after crises in Israel.

The country was and still is overdue for a monumental earthquake, and it had no infrastructure or knowledge for feeding thousands of people at a time, Lenamon said.

The initial conversation spurred multiple training sessions in Texas and in Israel. In fact, weve had monthly training trips to Israel for the past two years. We learned from each other and built facilities and mobile kitchens. We became family.

That family-like relationship made TBMs quick response possible. Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7. TBM volunteers caught a plane on Oct. 8 and arrived in Israel on Oct. 9. The next day, Oct. 10, they prepared about 2,000 meals. And before the American volunteers arrived, Israelis used the equipment provided by TBM to serve food to Palestinians and Israelis in southern Israel immediately after the attacks.

So many people are suffering as a result of the violence in Israel, Smith said. TBM is helping the people in any way we can.

Many of the TBM volunteers are from Texas, but the organization is also sending people from other states, as well as Hungarian Baptist Aid.

Our volunteers are stepping up to serve, Smith said. Theyre meeting the needs of people who have been impacted by the war. Many of these people have lost their homes. Their neighborhoods have been hit hard. TBM volunteers are reaching out with the compassion of Christ to Southern Israel during these difficult times.
Israeli Ambassador Calls For Secretary General Resignation, John Hagee Warns Of Terror Attack On U.S., Priest Smashes "Satanic" Pumpkins

link to download the audio instead. link to download the audio instead. 06:57 06:57

Top headlines for Thursday, October 26, 2023

In this episode, we delve into the ongoing conflicts in Israel and the humanitarian efforts on ground. We explore the controversial request from Israel's ambassador to the UN for the resignation of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, following his remarks on the Israel-Hamas war. We'll also discuss the concerns brought by a renowned American pastor about potential Hamas-style attacks on U.S. soil. Finally, we'll lighten the mood a bit with the peculiar story of a Czech priest who mistakenly destroyed a children's Halloween pumpkin display.

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Top headlines for Thursday, October 26, 2023

In this episode, we delve into the ongoing conflicts in Israel and the humanitarian efforts on ground. We explore the controversial request from Israel's ambassador to the UN for the resignation of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, following his remarks on the Israel-Hamas war. We'll also discuss the concerns brought by a renowned American pastor about potential Hamas-style attacks on U.S. soil. Finally, we'll lighten the mood a bit with the peculiar story of a Czech priest who mistakenly destroyed a children's Halloween pumpkin display.
A question for those who chant Palestine must be free

I have an honest question for all those who chant (or who affirm the words), Palestine must be free! Or, more fully, From the River to the Sea, Palestine must be free! My question is simply this: Where would you like the 7 million Jews currently living in Israel (or, Palestine in your words) to go? What is your plan?

As many have pointed out, this chant is not a call for a two-state solution. It is a call for the obliteration of Israel.

Better to chant, We are full of hate! No more Jewish state!

Why not spell it out?

After all, if you speak of the Israeli occupation of Palestine since 1948 (or, since 1947) and you claim that Israel as a whole is living on stolen land, you are saying, No more Jewish state!

Perhaps this chant would be even more appropriate: Listen to our brand-new line, our land will be Judenrein! (For those who are not familiar with the German term Judenrein, it means cleansed of Jews, as in, Nazi Germany will be Judenrein!)

When I posted this same question on X, Fireandice responded accurately: There is no need for a plan because if they get their way there will be no Jews.

More fully, Christian apologist David Wood, Ph.D., who specializes in debating Muslims, sarcastically posted: Those Jews should go back to Isra- ... Oops. Um. I mean, they should go back to all the Muslim countries they were kicked out of so that ... Okay, strike that. They should go to all the Western nations where protestors are calling for their extermination!

Exactly!

More chillingly, Leeor Rose said: They might show their true colours and follow through with what the Mufti planned from the very beginning. (The post was accompanied by a photo of Haj Amin Al-Husseini, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem who instigated the massacre of Jews in Hebron in 1929, sitting with Adolph Hitler.)

This was affirmed by Todd Hudnall, who wrote: From my understanding, for many who say this it means the same thing Haman and Hitler intended, annihilation of the Jewish people.

Yes, Alexander McKnight noted, In the sea would be their honest answer. Or, more concisely still, by Cheeky Tommy, To Hell.

This sounds very much like the sentiments of some of the Arab leaders who emphatically rejected the UNs 1947 Partition Plan, just as they had previously rejected the Peel Commissions plan in 1937.

To quote Haj Amin Al-Husseini in 1936, There is no place in Palestine for two races. The Jews left Palestine 2,000 years ago, let them go to other parts of the world, where there are wide vacant places.

Eleven years later, on October 11, 1947, and responding to the UN plan, Azzam Pasha, Secretary-General of the Arab League, said: It will be a war of annihilation. It will be a momentous massacre in history that will be talked about like the massacres of the Mongols or the Crusades.

As explained by Daniel Pipes, summarizing the important book Palestine Betrayed by the respected historian Efraim Karsh, Far from being the hapless victims of a predatory Zionist assault, it was Palestinian Arab leaders who, from the early 1920s onward, and very much against the wishes of their own constituents, launched a relentless campaign to obliterate the Jewish national revival which culminated in the violent attempt to abort the U.N. partition resolution.

Yes, Palestine Betrayed reframes today's ArabIsraeli debate by putting it into its proper historical context. Proving that for 90 years the Palestinian political elite has opted to reject the Jewish national revival and [insisted on] the need for its violent destruction, Karsh correctly concludes that the conflict will end only when the Palestinians give up on their genocidal hopes.

Unfortunately, those genocidal hopes are burning hotter than ever. And Israel, once again engaged in an existential battle with its surrounding enemies, is reminded that it has enemies around the world, all of whom want to see an end to the Jewish state.

Meanwhile, in the UK, Londons Metropolitan Police have ruled that chanting, From the river to the sea ... is not an arrestable offense. Given the trauma this must certainly cause for the UKs Jewish residents, especially in light of the immense crowds of protesters, numbering as many as this is quite disheartening.

It is also quite ironic, given that UK police have arrested street preachers for making LGBTQ+ identified individuals feel uncomfortable because of their religious beliefs. But calling publicly for the extermination of Israel is not arrestable.

One of my American colleagues who does humanitarian work in Israel told me that, for the first time, he has had to block dozens of people at a time for posting antisemitic comments on his social media pages. And, as if to remind us that this wretched disease of irrational Jew-hatred is not going away, one comment on my X feed said this: Antichrist Jews are not America's responsibility! Do you fools understand that the rabbis want America to fall? They have an interest in bringing down America?

And lest you think that its only Islamic extremists and wacky Jew haters who see no place for a Jewish state, the Wall Street Journal had this to say last year: Perhaps you thought Israel had long ago established its right to exist as a Jewish state. Guess again. Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran want to eliminate Israel as we know it, but who would have thought theyd find allies in Amnesty International?

Yes, as the Amnesty International report stated in summary, Israel has established and maintained an institutionalized regime of oppression and domination of the Palestinian population for the benefit of Jewish Israelis  wherever it has exercised control over Palestinians lives since 1948.

Note carefully those words: since 1948. Nation of Israel, there is no place for you!

Im aware, of course, that there are plenty of peace-loving, fair-minded Christians, Muslims, and Jews who still hope for a two-state solution or the like. And there are people from all backgrounds who grieve over the suffering and death of thousands of Israeli and Palestinian civilians. I grieve alongside each of them.

But they are not the ones chanting, From the river to the sea, and those are the people Im addressing here.

So, to ask again, where would you like the Jewish people to go, despite more than 2,000 years of connection to the Land?

On second thought, Id rather not know. Any answer will not be good.
Don't go to college because it 'makes you stupid?'

Its amazing how, in our age of the great unraveling, we see the value of a college education imploding before our eyes.

The evil Hamas did in Israel on October 7th, 2023  leaving 1,400 Israelis dead in brutal attacks on men, women, children, and even babies  revealed their true goals. But many college students are defending them.

Many Jews on campuses of some of our leading universities feel at risk. For example, the New York Post reports that on October 11, a 24-year old Israeli student was beaten with a stick on the Columbia University campus, right outside the main library.

Foxnews.com reports, Columbia is one of many elite institutions across America that is being rocked by accusations of excusing antisemitism as the debate over the Israel-Hamas war continues. They cite an example of a professor who wrote an article highlighting the efforts of Hamas fighters invading Israel. He favored them.

Such actions prompted an assistant professor at Columbia Business School, who is an Israeli-American, to call out the president of Columbia University as a coward for his silence in the wake of such anti-Semitism.

The founders of Columbia would be rolling in their graves if they knew what was happening there today. Columbia University began as Kings College in 1754. An early advertisement for the school declared, The chief thing that is aimed at in this college is to teach and engage children to know God in Jesus Christ. Somehow, Jesus Christ doesnt seem so welcome at Columbia these days.

But, alas, Columbia is not unique in terms of pro-Hamas protests. Consider the anti-Israel protests at a number of our most prestigious schools:

After the Hamas attack of October 7, about 30 Harvard student groups famously sent out a pro-Palestinian statement: We hold the Israeli regime entirely responsible for all unfolding violence.

At Cornell University a professor expressed his enthusiasm for what Hamas did on October 7th. He gushed, It was exhilarating. It was energizing.

A University of Pennsylvania librarian reportedly tore down posters of Israelis held hostage by Hamas.

And on it goes. What a contrast to the founding of most of these schools.

The Christian foundation of the majority of the great universities in America is well-documented.

For instance, one school stated, Let every student be plainly instructed and earnestly pressed to consider well the main end of his life and studies is to know God and Jesus Christ which is eternal life, John 17:3, and therefore to lay Christ  as the only sound foundation of all knowledge and learning. That school was Harvard. Goals that are still high, lofty, and worthy.

But we fast forward to today, and we see the influence of Marxism at war with the Judeo-Christian tradition, and even Jews and Christians themselves.

Last week, Gary Bauer, founder of American Values, wrote: Jewish students on American university campuses are fearful and hiding in their dorm rooms. The hatred for them is so pronounced that they are hiding on the campuses where their parents are paying $40,000 a year or more for their children to be educated.

The situation on campus has gotten so bad that Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) proposed a resolution that unequivocally condemns Hamas and the hateful, antisemitic rhetoric that the recent terrorist attack has inspired on our college campuses. Democrats blocked his proposal.

The Marxists have taken over some of our most prestigious schools. Marxists believe that there are the oppressors and the oppressed. In the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Jews are allegedly the oppressors, and Hamas, the oppressed.

Greg Gutfield, the late-night Fox News commentator, pulled no punches on these college professors standing with Hamas: Isn't it time to focus on the indoctrinators, not just the indoctrinated? Because its the ones doing the brainwashing that matter most. Every day theres another story about an Ivy League professor praising the murder of Jews. They live in such a bubble that they think those [Israeli] babies deserve to die because they're oppressors.

In effect, the Hamas-Israeli crisis has pulled down the veil on whats been happening in some of our most elite schools of higher learning in the nation. But its also true even in a lot of state universities.

So many of them have become hotbeds of Marxism. They have become centers of indoctrination, not education.

Even Bill Maher, the late-night libertarian commentator, stated the other day: As an Ivy League graduate who knows the value of a liberal education, I have one piece of advice for the youth of America: Dont go to college. He even said that college makes you stupid.

Today a college education is not what it was worth a few decades ago. Some employers are questioning whether a college education is even necessary for candidates they are considering hiring. With trends like the pro-Hamas push on too many campuses, who can blame them?
Cathedrals bring people together for peace in the Middle East

Cathedrals are creating spaces for people to come and pray for peace in the Middle East.

Canterbury Cathedral is organising a peace vigil for Monday 30 October that will be attended by representatives from local Jewish, Muslim and Christian communities.

A moment of silence will be observed to remember the dead, injured and kidnapped, and people will be invited to tie a white ribbon for peace.

The cathedral was keen to stress that the vigil is "a non-political event to remember and pray for all communities impacted in the Holy Land" and that only flags or signs for peace may be displayed in the cathedral precincts.

The Dean of Canterbury, the Very Revd David Monteith said: "What can we do when faced with such violence and brokenness?

"We stand together across our differences, we create silence so that hope might grow, and we foster solidarity to build a community in which where one hurts, everyone hurts."

He added, "Down the centuries people and pilgrims have looked to Canterbury for healing and transformation. Like them we now pray for fresh miracles."

Other cathedrals have hosted prayer vigils for peace in recent days, including Salisbury, Coventry and Bradford.

Carlisle Cathedral hosted a vigil for peace last Friday that was well attended despite the disruption caused by Storm Babet.

At Coventry Cathedral, the vigil was led by cathedral dean, the Very Rev John Witcombe, and attended by Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Baha'i community leaders, as well as MP for Coventry South, Zarah Sultana.

She said, "This vigil was a powerful demonstration of our city's best traditions, with our diverse communities  Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, people of all faiths and none  coming together to mourn the Palestinian and Israeli civilians killed in the recent violence.

"Together we called for peace and an end to the death and destruction.

"I know that reflects the sentiments of people across Coventry, who want to see peace and justice in the region, with the rights of all Palestinians and Israelis upheld."
Christians support refugees seeking shelter in Lebanon

Christian charity Help The Persecuted is providing assistance to refugees fleeing the Israel-Gaza war to Lebanon.

Lebanon borders with northern Israel and Syria, and many have sought refuge there despite the country being in the grip of an economic crisis.

Help the Persecuted said that Christian families have crossed the border into Lebanon from Israel following the outbreak of the war.

Lebanon is one of the most open Middle Eastern countries towards Christianity, and Help the Persecuted runs a number of safe houses in the north of the country.

Christian families have been able to find respite in the safe houses.

"We have been shocked by the violence we've witnessed in the region in the past few weeks. But we have seen God's grace that we already had safe houses ready to provide refuge to these persecuted Christians caught in the crossfire," said Joshua Youssef, president of Help The Persecuted.

"We have also seen God's timing and grace that the vegetable farm we recently established has enabled us to feed literally thousands of devastated people.

"Our offices in Syria and Egypt also stand ready to support many more persecuted believers if the conflict continues to escalate."

A vegetabe farm was recently set up by the charity on the outskirts of Beirut to provide fresh food to persecuted and vulnerable people.

The charity is preparing to expand its support in the coming weeks with the launch of a new ministry centre to host more Christian families with beds, food, clothing and pastoral care.

It will also connect these families to local churches and work with government shelters to provide practical and spiritual support for refugees.

Thousands of Emergency Relief Kits are being distributed. They contain a month's supply of basic food supplies, as well as Bibles and Christian literature.

In the long term, the charity plans to expand its Enduring Livelihood programme to help refugees rebuild their lives through small-scale business.

Youssef added: "Ultimately, we desire to share the hope of the Gospel. God has uniquely positioned us to Rescue, Restore, and Rebuild the lives caught in the midst of this conflict. We believe that there is always a reason to hope because God is sovereign over everythingeven this."
Multiculturalism: a dangerous failure

Failure

Those of us who can remember past conflicts involving Israel such as the Six-Day War (1967) and the Yom Kippur War (1973) can recall news clips from far away followed by conversations with family and friends admiring Israel's determination not to be destroyed. What we don't recall are mass demonstrations throughout the West with calls for jihad against Israel and support and justification for the evil acts of Hamas. What changed? The conflict is the same: it is the West which has changed.

'Diversity is our greatest strength'  we have heard this ad nauseam. But no one ever points out any verifiable benefits for all the West. Surely there must be something more than being able to eat khuushuur or boortsog in a Mongolian restaurant in Islington? Seen as a way of welcoming immigrants to the West without exacerbating tensions between indigenous people and newcomers, it is evident that multiculturalism has failed and is instead the cause of increasing tensions.

As long ago as 2010 even Angela Merkel, then Chancellor of Germany and one of the foremost facilitators of mass immigration, admitted that Germany's experiment with multikulti had failed. She observed that it created communities of different cultural background living side by side with little if any meaningful contact.

Opposition is Bigotry

One of the most effective tools of the elites to manoeuvre us into accepting multiculturalism is to equate opposition to multiculturalism with racism. It is not racist to be concerned about multiculturalism. You can be comfortable with racial diversity and simultaneously anxious about religio-cultural diversity. This is by no means a contradictory position: religions are not races.

Neither is concern about multiculturalism a form of 'phobia'. It is sensible to be concerned about the impact of bringing into your country a great number of people from unstable countries, many of whom have contempt for our way of life and values and no desire to integrate. The creation of communities preserving cultural and legal norms vastly different from those of the indigenous people inevitably breeds tension.

Danger

The gravest danger to Britain's multi-ethnic democracy is not white-British racism, it is the importation of tribal ideologies fuelling tensions between its minorities. Whether it is American-inspired racial identity politics such as BLM, religious and community hatred carried over from the sub-continent, or Arab-world sectarianism, community cohesion in relatively diverse parts of the country is under strain. The most divisive fault lines in today's Britain do not involve the white British mainstream at all.

Inter-racial conflicts between BAME communities are nothing new. The 2005 Birmingham riots which led to two fatalities, were primarily between people of Pakistani origin and Black Caribbean heritage. Last year parts of Leicester experienced large-scale public disorder mainly between Hindu and Muslim youths. In September the London district of Peckham saw racial tensions spike following a physical altercation between the Pakistani heritage owner of Peckham Hair and Cosmetics and a black woman he accused of theft. Amongst the many racist messages left on the front of the business included 'Racist Asians, go to hell Patel' and 'Black owned only', the latter calling for a boycott of non-black businesses.

There is a danger of growing ill will among native Britons at unequal treatment. In 2020 more than 150 people were arrested at an anti-lockdown protest in London; in 2023 protesters called for jihad against Israel and clambered on the Cenotaph waving Palestinian flags, and the police stood by. Christians can be arrested for silently praying in the vicinity of an abortion clinic, yet hundreds of Muslims can kneel and pray at the gates of 10 Downing Street without hindrance. These disparities of treatment can only stoke up already existing community resentment.

Not all Equal

Multiculturalism means that there is no expectation of integration. We have been hospitable to a fault, changing our laws, providing documentation in myriad languages along with free translation services, giving significant amounts of money via charities that discriminate against the indigenous population. We have introduced quotas where skin colour is more important than ability. Despite all this accommodation, we are still abused as racists and xenophobes.

Not all cultures are equal. Not all beliefs, values or religions are equal and should be accommodated. Societies that treat women as fully human are better than those that subjugate them to men, dictating their clothing and educational opportunities and restricting their movements without male permission. Societies which support freedom of speech are better, more able to develop and live in internal peace, than those which kill those who utter unacceptable views.

Inevitable Failure

Ultimately multiculturalism is doomed to failure: its very purpose ensures this. In seeing diversity as a strength and championing difference over unity, it rejects the fundamental necessity of a central moral and cultural standard around which people can bond. Without that, no society can cohere. When King Charles speaks of the UK being 'a community of communities' he is encouraging division amongst his subjects because there will always be tensions between those who hold conflicting world-views.

Without a shared and trusted cultural framework, we can never hope to develop the trust and mutual respect which is necessary if society is to hold together. Without the shared sense of identity it creates, all we have is an increasingly loose collection of competing interests and parallel societies which tear apart at the slightest pressure. In substituting tribal loyalties over shared endeavour, we ensure the failure of the nation.

What Changed?

The fundamental change in the West since the 1960s is that we have abandoned that which held us together. We might have differed over our politics, religion or social background, but we lived together relatively harmoniously. With the rejection of the Christian-based system of morality and law which created our culture we abandoned the culture itself. The despisers of Christianity have loosened our ties and opened the door to distrust and conflict.
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced measures in response to the earthquake that occurred in Morocco on September 8.

IRCC says it has been processing temporary and permanent residence applications received on or before September 8, 2023, from people affected by the earthquake on a priority basis. This includes visitor visa applications for immediate family members of Canadian citizens and Canadian permanent residents, as well as existing applications for refugee resettlement.

Additionally, as of October 19, 2023, Moroccan nationals in Canada can apply for an extension of their temporary status, free of charge so they may continue to study, work or visit family.

Learn More About Canadian Immigration

These measures are for Moroccan nations who were in Canada as of September 8, when the earthquake occurred. IRCC says this will make it easier for Moroccan nationals to extend their temporary status in Canada or move between temporary streams.

These measures are similar to those surrounding the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria in February 2023. Further humanitarian initiatives for those impacted by the earthquake have not yet been announced.

Passport requirement waived for PR visa

IRCC will also waive the requirement to hold a passport or travel document to be approved for a permanent resident visa to come to Canada for Moroccans who have lost their documents due to the earthquake.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents from Morocco who return to Canada will also benefit as IRCC is waiving fees for temporary passports, limited-validity passports and emergency travel documents, as well as Canadian citizenship certificates and permanent resident travel documents.

These measures will be in effect from October 19, 2023 to March 12, 2024. IRCC will release more details in the coming days.

Canada's response

IRCC says it's measures are part of Canadas response to the situation in Morocco. Other government initiatives have also taken place. For example, When the earthquake occurred in September, Canada's government announced it would work with the International Red Cross and Red Crescent to raise funds to support humanitarian needs in the region. For 20 days, Canada's government offered to match donations up to a total of $3 million

According to census 2021, 81,775 people in Canada reported Morocco as their place of birth and of them, 12,835 are considered recent immigrants. Most Moroccans chose to settle in Montreal, Canadas largest French-speaking city.

Shortly after the earthquake, Quebec's government pledged $1.5 million toward relief efforts in Morocco.

Learn More About Canadian Immigration
Asociatia Obsteasca Prietena Mea este in cautarea unui psiholog/unei psiholoage pentru organizarea unor discutii de grup cu parintii si ingrijitorii copiilor cu dizabilitati
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Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele
Background



Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are core principles at UNDP: we value diversity as an expression of the multiplicity of nations and cultures where we operate, we foster inclusion as a way of ensuring all personnel are empowered to contribute to our mission, and we ensure equity and fairness in all our actions. Taking a leave no one behind approach to our diversity efforts means increasing representation of underserved populations. People who identify as belonging to marginalized or excluded populations are strongly encouraged to apply. Learn more about working at UNDP including our values and inspiring stories.

UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks.



Under the overall guidance and the direct supervision of the Operations Manager, the Finance Analyst provides leadership in execution of financial services in the CO ensuring effective and transparent utilization of financial resources and integrity of financial services. The Finance Analyst promotes a client-oriented approach consistent with UNDP rules and regulations.

The incumbent supervises and leads the staff of the Finance Unit. He/She works in close collaboration with the operations, programme and project teams in the CO, GSSC and UNDP HQs staff for resolving complex finance-related issues and information delivery.

Position Purpose

Summary of key functions:

Implementation of operational and financial management strategies

Projects budget management and organization of the cost-recovery system

Control of CO accounts

Control of CO cash management

Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing

Duties and Responsibilities



Ensures implementation of operational and financial management strategies, and adapts processes and procedures, focusing on the achievement of the following results:

Full compliance of financial activities, financial recording/reporting system and audit follow up with UN/UNDP rules, regulations, policies and strategies; implementation of the effective internal control, proper design and functioning of the financial resources management system.

CO Finance business processes mapping and elaboration/establishment of internal

Standard Operating Procedures in Finance, control of the workflows in the Finance Unit.

Continuous analysis and monitoring of the financial situation, presentation of forecasts for development and management projects.

Elaboration of the framework and conditions of contributions within the CO resources mobilization efforts.

Elaboration and implementation of cost saving and reduction strategies.

Routinely monitors financial exception reports for unusual activities, transactions, and investigates anomalies or unusual transactions. Informs supervisors and other UNDP staff at Headquarters and GSSU of the results of the investigation when satisfactory answers are not obtained.

Manages the project budgets and organizes an optimal cost-recovery system focusing on achievement of the following results:

Financial resources management through planning, guiding, controlling of the resources in accordance with UNDP rules and regulations.

Preparation and monitoring of budgets of management projects.

Establishment of the development projects budgets preparation/modification monitoring system, control of budgetary status versus authorized spending limits (ASL) and budgets delivery levels.

Sending project budget to KK if authorized by the Senior Management (can be done only on the basis of signed ProDoc and project budgets).

Elaboration of proper mechanisms to eliminate deficiencies in budget management.

Preparation of cost-recovery bills in Quantum for the services provided by UNDP.

Ensures proper control of CO accounts focusing on achievement of the following results:

Elaboration of the internal expenditures control system which ensures that vouchers processed are matched and completed, transactions are correctly recorded and posted in Quantum; payrolls are duly prepared; MPOs, travel claims and other entitlements are duly processed, receipting of goods and services and establishment of accruals are properly done in compliance with IPSAS and UNDP policies and procedures.

Manager level 1 in Quantum.

Control of accounts closure

Approval of vendors in Quantum.

Timely corrective actions on unposted vouchers, including the vouchers with budget check errors, match exceptions, unapproved vouchers. Timely response to HQ requests to resolve financial data issues.

Control of the Accounts Receivables for UNDP projects and maintenance of the General Ledger.

Ensures proper CO cash management focusing on achievement of the following results:

Timely review of cash position for local accounts to ensure sufficient funds on hand for disbursements. Timely identification and recording of receipts for income application.

Monitoring of financial exception reports for unusual activities, transactions and investigation of anomalies or unusual transactions. Provision of information to supervisors and GSSU on the results of the investigation when satisfactory answers are not obtained.

Daily review of zero-balance account bank statements in Quantum to monitor imprest level; identification and record of contributions.

Primary contact with local bank management on routine operational matters including negotiation of exchange rate on replenishments.

Approval and submission of monthly UN exchange rate reports to Treasury

Timely and accurate approval of bank reconciliation, including documented review of exceptions.

Initiation of bank transfers and deals, selecting bank transfers and deals for approval and settlement. Performing Paycycle manager role in Quantum.

Timely preparation of monthly cashflow forecast for use by Operations Manager. Liaison with UN Agencies to obtain estimate of their cash requirements.

Role as cashier for cash disbursements made on site.

Ensures facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing in the CO and guidance to all stakeholders on financial matters focusing on achievement of the following results:

Organization/conduct of training for the operations/programme/projects staff on financial management and RBM.

Synthesis of lessons learnt and best practices in Finance.

Sound contributions to knowledge networks and communities of practice.

Supervisory/Managerial Responsibilities: Supervisory

Competencies

Core Competencies

Achieve Results: LEVEL 2: Scale up solutions and simplifies processes, balances speed and accuracy in doing work

LEVEL 2: Scale up solutions and simplifies processes, balances speed and accuracy in doing work Think Innovatively: LEVEL 2: Offer new ideas/open to new approaches, demonstrate systemic/integrated thinking

LEVEL 2: Offer new ideas/open to new approaches, demonstrate systemic/integrated thinking Learn Continuously: LEVEL 2: Go outside comfort zone, learn from others and support their learning

LEVEL 2: Go outside comfort zone, learn from others and support their learning Adapt with Agility: LEVEL 2: Adapt processes/approaches to new situations, involve others in change process

LEVEL 2: Adapt processes/approaches to new situations, involve others in change process Act with Determination: LEVEL 2: Able to persevere and deal with multiple sources of pressure simultaneously

LEVEL 2: Able to persevere and deal with multiple sources of pressure simultaneously Engage and Partner: LEVEL 2: Is facilitator/integrator, bring people together, build/maintain coalitions/partnerships

LEVEL 2: Is facilitator/integrator, bring people together, build/maintain coalitions/partnerships Enable Diversity and Inclusion: LEVEL 2: Facilitate conversations to bridge differences, considers in decision making

Cross Functional & Technical Competencies

Business Management - Operations Management Ability to effectively plan, organize, and oversee the Organizations business processes in order to convert its assets into the best results in the most efficient manner. Knowledge of relevant concepts and mechanisms.

Business Management - Monitoring Ability to provide managers and key stakeholders with regular feedback on the consistency or discrepancy between planned and actual activities and programme performance and results.

Business Management - Resource Management Ability to allocate and use resources in a strategic or tactical way in line with principles of accountability and integrity

Technical Competencies - Audit & Investigation - General Financial and Managerial Accounting and Finance key concepts Key concepts and principles of financial accounting, interpret financial analysis, managerial accounting, etc.

Audit & Investigation  Audit. Internal auditing standards, practices, and techniques Undertake audit assignments in accordance with international professional standards in respect of operational audits, financial audits, performance audits, project audits and provision of advisory services

Finance - Budget management Ability to support budgetary aspects of work planning process, drawing and management of team budgets

Finance - Finance business partnering Able to support business units and add value by innovating and providing solutions to financial issues/queries, including through FAQs, financial tools, advisory, etc.



Required Skills and Experience

Education:

Masters degree in Finance/Accounting, Business, or Public Administration, or a professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized institute of accountancy with 2 years of relevant experience.

A first level (Bachelors) University Degree in Finance/Accounting, Business, or Public Administration, or a professional accounting qualification from an internationally recognized institute of accountancy with an additional 2 years of relevant experience will be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.

Professionally qualified accountants from an internationally recognized institute of accountancy will have a distinct advantage.

Experience:

Masters degree or 2 years (with University Degree) of relevant experience in providing financial management and accounting advisory services, managing staff and operational systems

Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc) and advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database packages

Experience in handling of web-based management systems and ERP financials.

Experience of IPSAS and/or IFRS is required.

Language:

Fluency in English.

Working knowledge of one or more additional languages relevant for Moldova, including Russian, Bulgarian, Gagauzian, Romani, Ukrainian or sign language would be an asset.

Other:

IMPORTANT: Any applicant considered for a UNDP finance position, who does not have an accounting qualification, such as CA, CPA, ACCA etc., would be required to take and pass the appropriate Test to be considered for the finance position.

Important:

Please note that continuance of appointment beyond the initial 12 months is contingent upon the successful completion of a probationary period.



Disclaimer



Applicant information about UNDP rosters



Note: UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement. We may also retain applications and consider candidates applying to this post for other similar positions with UNDP at the same grade level and with similar job description, experience and educational requirements.



Non-discrimination



NDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, sexual harassment, and abuse of authority. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles.

UNDP is an equal opportunity and inclusive employer that does not discriminate based on race, sex, gender identity, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy, age, language, social origin or other status.



Scam warning



The United Nations does not charge any application, processing, training, interviewing, testing or other fee in connection with the application or recruitment process. Should you receive a solicitation for the payment of a fee, please disregard it. Furthermore, please note that emblems, logos, names and addresses are easily copied and reproduced. Therefore, you are advised to apply particular care when submitting personal information on the web.

Pentru a aplica, va rugam sa adresati link-ul: Apply Now

Data de incheiere a postului vacant au fost extins pana la: 10 noiembrie 2023
By sebra, Adobe

The government faces a legal challenge from Care4Calais over its accommodation of asylum seekers at former RAF base Wethersfield, with the charity warning that people are being subjected to segregation by nationality.

The charity says the former RAF base, which has been used to house asylum seekers since July, is ringed by security fences and monitored with 24/7 surveillance by on-site security guards and CCTV.

There is no pedestrian access to the site, it is not served by public transport, and is at least 1.5 miles from the nearest village, the charity said.

Care4Calais brought the legal challenge after residents at the site told its volunteers it feels like being imprisoned.

A spokesperson from the Home Office said: Accommodation offered to asylum seekers, on a no-choice basis, meets our legal and contractual requirements and they are free to come and go.

The government has until 7 November to respond to the charitys legal challenge before a judicial review is initiated.

The Charity Commission previously reviewed Care4Calais decision to issue judicial review proceedings to challenge the UK governments migration and economic development partnership with Rwanda.

It found the decision was properly made, adequately documented, and was within the range of reasonable decisions open to the trustees of the charity.

Segregation by nationality

A pre-action protocol (PAP) letter issued by lawyers on behalf of Care4Calais accuses home secretary Suella Braverman of failing to provide a standard of living adequate for the health of the claimants at the site, a requirement under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.

The letter states that Wethersfield cannot be rationally regarded as suitable accommodation due to residents being physically confined to the camp.

Furthermore, it argues that separating asylum seekers from the wider UK population amounts to segregation by nationality as the remoteness of the site and all-day security make it effectively impossible for residents to interact with the local community.

The charity says this is a breach of the home secretarys statutory powers granted by parliament.

Care4Calais added that the case could also have implications for other government sites, such as Bibby Stockholm and RAF Scampton.

Absence of effective screening for victims of modern slavery

Another ground in the charity's challenge is the absence of an effective screening process for the selection of asylum seekers being accommodated at Wethersfield.

According to the charity, the suitability criteria for the site specifies that survivors of torture, modern slavery or people who suffer from serious mental health concerns should not be selected for it.

However, over the last three months, the charity states it has gathered evidence that people who meet these descriptions are being sent to the former RAF base.

When their accommodation was challenged through PAP letters, the government transferred them to hotels, Care4Calais said.

Home Office: Would otherwise be destitute

A Home Office spokesperson told Civil Society that people housed at Wethersfield are not detained and are free to come and go as they please.

Resources that the government provides at sites such as Wethersfield include meals, primary healthcare provision, a multi-faith room and recreational indoor and outdoor exercise facilities, it said.

The department said the government's use of surplus military sites provides cheaper, more orderly and suitable accommodation for refugees arriving on small boats, as opposed to the expensive use of hotels.

A Home Office spokesperson said: Despite the number of people arriving in the UK reaching record levels, we continue to provide accommodation for asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute to meet our legal obligation.



Accommodation offered to asylum seekers, on a no-choice basis, meets our legal and contractual requirements and they are free to come and go.

Care4Calais: De-facto prison camps

Steve Smith, CEO of refugee charity Care4Calais said: What we are witnessing at sites such as Wethersfield, and indeed the Bibby Stockholm, is a form of segregation.

Whilst under previous governments, asylum seekers would have been integrated into UK communities through dispersal accommodation, this current government has given up on any pretence of trying to integrate asylum seekers into UK society, by putting them in de-facto prison camps and barges.

Falsely imprisoning asylum seekers behind barbed-wire fences, placing them under 24/7 surveillance, restricting their liberty and separating them from any semblance of community, is now the chosen policy of this government. We believe it is unlawful.

We are putting the government on notice. Stop imprisoning asylum seekers in camps and barges, close these sites of segregation and start tackling the real problems in the UKs asylum system. If they dont, we will see them in court.

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,
By highwaystarz, Adobe

Charity shops in the UK generated 75.3bn of social value in 2022, a new report has found.

The first-ever report on the social return on investment of the UKs estimated 10,178 charity shops finds that for every pound invested in the charity retail sector between January and December 2022, 7.35 of social value was created.

The Value of Giving Back  The Social Return of Charity Shops report , published yesterday, was commissioned by the Charity Retail Association to understand the social value of charity shops in the UK.

It used the views of stakeholder groups, namely staff, volunteers, customers and donors to determine what outcomes charity shops create and involved them to estimate their quantity, duration, value and causality.

Half of the total social value was about giving back

The researchers used a combination of qualitative and quantitative data such as the total number of operational charity shops in the UK and surveys sent to hundreds of stakeholders.

When asked about their interactions with a charity shop, respondents shared 10 outcomes including saving money and customers and donors feeling that charity shop staff meet me with friendliness and compassion.

The researchers sought to quantify how important those qualitative outcomes were to the respondents, and asked them to give a number, with six being the most important thing and zero the least.

Using the wellbeing valuation method, the researchers were able to translate these outcomes into monetary value and established that the stakeholders represented 47 million people across the UK, who are mostly customers and donors.

They found that nearly half of the total value generated by charity shops (75.3bn) was about giving back, either to others (29%) or to the planet (20%).

Looking at the sub-total value of outcomes per stakeholder group, the highest total social value was for customers (45.7bn) while the highest social value per person was created for volunteers (3,177).

Minister: Charity shops a major answer to some of the problems were facing

At the report launch in parliament yesterday, civil society minister Stuart Andrew said: The fact that 363m is contributed to charities through those shops is an enormous amount of money. Where would that money come from, if it wasnt for those charity shops?

Im covering everything from civil society, gambling, youth, sports, loneliness, volunteering, etc. I see charity shops as a major answer to some of the problems were facing, whether its tackling loneliness or helping people to go somewhere and volunteer. But also, because of the nature of the shops, they do allow that time for people to just come in and have a chat.

He added: So from me and everyone in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, everyone says a big thank you for everything that you do. Those charity shops are incredibly important. Ill take great interest in reading this report and learning what else we can do in government to help support everything that youre doing. It really does mean a great deal.

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,




 One body has been recovered, two people have been rescued, and four are missing after two freighters collided in the North Sea off the coast of Germany, the maritime emergency authority said on Tuesday.

The Verity, which the Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said had sunk, had been on its way from Bremen to the English town of Immingham with seven crew members on board. The Polesie was sailing from Hamburg to La Coruna in Spain.

The four missing crew members may be alive and sheltering inside the vessel on the sea floor, a spokesperson said during a press conference later, adding a team of divers was looking for signs of life.

The Verity was carrying steel and had 1,300 cubic meters of diesel on board, the spokesperson added.

The ship collided with the Polesie at around 0300 GMT about 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) southwest of Germanys Heligoland archipelago.

The Polesie had 22 people on board, none of whom were injured, the central command said.

One rescued man was taken to a hospital on land and the other was on his way to hospital on board the German maritime rescue cruiser Hermann Marwede, it added.

A cruise ship operated by P&O Cruises was involved in the search operation, a spokesperson for the company said.

Authorities reported strong winds in the area and waves of up to three meters.
Insurers and the Texas Department of Insurance hope to persuade the state Supreme Court to block a constitutional challenge to a law that prohibits roofing contractors from acting as public adjusters on their customers damage claims.

The high court will hear oral arguments today in lawsuit filed by Stonewater Roofing Ltd. that charges the public adjuster licensing law, first adopted in 2005, infringes on its First Amendment right to free speech and its 14th Amendment right to due process. TDI hopes to overturn a decision by the Seventh Court of Appeals in Amarillo that found the laws restrictions on free speech should be subject to strict scrutiny and allowed Stonewaters challenge to proceed toward trial.

The American Property Casualty Insurers Association, National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies and the Texas Insurance Council filed a joint amicus brief on Wednesday urging the Supreme Court to grant TDIs petition to dismiss Stonewaters lawsuit.

If Stonewaters position is accepted by this Court, the Texas insurance marketplace could soon join other states in experiencing an insurance crisis, states the brief, written by Steve Badger, a partner with Zelle Law in Dallas.

The brief says Texas lawmakers adopted the public adjuster law to protect the public from two-Chucks-in-a-truck contractors who walk door to door in storm-damaged neighborhoods after every major storm event.

Unquestionably, Texas policyholders who may fall victim to unscrupulous contractors and others acting as unlicensed and unregulated claim advocates will be the ones most directly affected by the outcome of this appeal in thousands of Texas property insurance claims each year, the brief says.

Stonewater is a family-owned roofing contractor headquartered in Tyler that operates five offices in Texas. A customer filed a lawsuit against the company alleging that Stonewater had acted illegally as a public adjuster. The suit sought to recover the nearly $1 million that the customer spent on a commercial roofing project plus treble damages and attorney fees, according to a brief that Stonewater filed with the court.

Stonewater filed a lawsuit seeking a declaration by the court that the public adjuster law violates its constitutional rights. Though Stonewater wants to speak openly with its clients and their insurers, the Texas Legislature has made doing so a potential criminal act subject to crippling civil and administrative penalties, the company said in a brief filed with the court.

Judge Lora J. Livingston, with the 201st District Court in Travis County, dismissed the lawsuit without writing an opinion. Stonewater appealed.

The appellate panel ruled that the trial court erred by dismissing Stonewaters complaint without explaining why in writing. The panel said the restrictions in the law are subject to strict scrutiny by the courts because they are based on the content of communications and apply to specific individuals, roofing contractors. The panel did not rule on the merits of the claims, but found that Stonewater should have been allowed to proceed with its lawsuit.

Stonewater has gained support from a well-known expert in constitutional law, Vermont Law and Graduate School President Rodney A. Smolla. In an amicus brief, Smolla said that a 2018 US Supreme Court decision in National Institute of Family and Life Advocates v. Becerra supports Stonewaters arguments.

In that 5-4 decision, the US Supreme Court ruled that a California statute that required licensed health care clinics to disseminate information about low-cost family planning services, including abortion and contraception, violated free speech rights. The majority said that professional speech is not excepted from the rule that content-based regulation of speech is subject to strict scrutiny, meaning that states must show a compelling public purpose for such restrictions.

NIFLA correctly refused to treat licensure as a talisman working voodoo to undermine constitutional protection of free speech, Smollas brief says.

A separate amicus brief filed by attorney Arif Panju on behalf of the Institute for Justice says federal Circuit Courts have invalidated laws and rules that are similar to Texas public adjuster law. The 5th Circuit upheld the right of a retired veterinarian to give verbal and written advice about pet healthcare, despite professional licensing rules. The 9th Circuit ruled that South Carolina could not use its rules on post-secondary education to bar a farrier from offering classes on horseshoeing.

TDI argues that restrictions similar to Texas public adjuster law have been adopted by 46 states without creating any undue burden on free speech or due process rights.

Under Stonewaters logic, most, if not all, professional licensing and practice regulations would be subject to strict scrutiny because nearly all professionals must speak to perform their jobs, the departments brief says.

The Supreme Court will begin hearing oral arguments in Stonewaters case at 9 a.m. today at its courthouse in Austin. It is one of three cases that will be heard today.
The National Weather Service called it super fog  a combination of thick smoke from fires in marshy wetlands of south Louisiana and the fog that often hangs thick in the air on cool, windless mornings.

It was a deadly combination this week. Smoke spreading through the region from a marsh fire east of New Orleans combined with thick fog and reduced visibility on highways to near nothing. It caused a series of horrific crashes that turned a section of Interstate 55 near New Orleans into a virtual junkyard of mangled and charred vehicles.

Officials said 158 vehicles were involved. There were eight dead and 63 reported injuries as of Tuesday evening.

Super fog or smog?

Super fog and smog are both types of fog, according to the National Weather Service. But smog  often a problem in cities with heavy car traffic or industry  is formed when fog combines with smoke from pollutants. It can reduce visibility and pose a health hazard.

The term super fog describes fog enhanced by smoke from damp, smoldering organic material, according to the weather service. It can lower visibility to less than 10 feet (3 meters).

How often does super fog occur?

Meteorologist Tyler Stanfield with the weather service`s New Orleans office said super fog events are not overly rare, but they do take a perfect storm of conditions to materialize and can happen a few times per year. Fireworks can contribute to super fog conditions, and Stanfield said super fog has occurred during Fourth of July and New Year`s celebrations.

Stanfield said very light winds and high pressure over the region Monday trapped moisture near the ground, which he described as a pretty typical fog setup. The moist leaves and brush that were burning resulted in very low visibility.

Are fires common in Louisiana marshes?

They may be considered wetlands, but marshes can dry out, said Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain, particularly when the state is suffering through a drought that has contributed to wildfires in marshes and timberland. When the dry grass ignites, it burns not only the grass on top, it burns through the crust and the peat layer underneath, Strain said.

Such fires occur every year in south Louisiana. They can be caused by lightning strikes or people __ hunters seeking to flush game, wildlife officials doing controlled burns to promote new growth, or sometimes arsonists. The fires are usually in remote, hard-to-access areas, making it difficult to fight them when they get out of control.

Theyre not necessarily like big out-of-control wildfires, but they kind of smolder and produce smoke, Stanfield said, adding that they can last for weeks or months at a time.

Its one of those phenomena that, with climate change, we might see it more often, said Stephen Murphy, director of the disaster management program at Tulanes School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. The drought conditions down here certainly fueled, no pun intended, all that marsh fire.

Have conditions improved?

The super fog cleared by Monday evening. Increasing wind and high pressure were moving towards Georgia, eliminating any imminent threat of a repeat super fog event. Meanwhile, Strain said, efforts continue to extinguish the marsh fire near New Orleans that has pumped out much of the smoke that contributed to Monday`s accidents.

We have two high-volume pumps that are flooding the whole area with water, Strain said. It can still smolder, even as it vents up. We hope to markedly reduce the amount of smoke.

Top photo: A vehicle is lifted out of Lake Maurepas under Interstate-55 near Manchac, Tuesday, October 24, 2023. Authorities say at least seven people were killed Monday after a superfog of smoke from south Louisiana marsh fires and dense fog caused multiple massive car crashes involving 158 vehicles.(Brett Duke/The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate via AP)

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
GETTYSBURG, Ohio  An 18-year-old Amish girl was thrown from her buggy Tuesday morning when it was struck by a straight truck from behind.

The Darke County Sheriffs Office says the horse pulling the buggy was killed in the crash on U.S. 36. Darke County is located in western Ohio near the Indiana border.

According to the sheriffs office, a 37-year-old man from Lynn, Indiana, was driving the truck east on U.S. 36 just before 9 a.m. when he collided with the horse and buggy being driven by Beth Burns of Bradford. Burns was thrown from the buggy when it rolled into a ditch.

Burns was taken to a hospital, but the sheriffs office says the severity of her injuries was unknown.

The driver of the truck was treated and released at the scene. He was cited for failure to maintain assured clear distance.
Heres a look at some of the top stories trending online today, October 26. They include the latest news on events in Israel and Gaza, mass shootings in Maine, Mike Johnson elected new House speaker and much more.

Manhunt continues for person of interest in deadly Maine shootings (NPR)

Israel mounts new sortie into Gaza, hints there may be several invasions (Reuters)

Biden warns of response if Iran attacks U.S. troops (Politico)

Mike Johnson elected House speaker (AP)

Who is Mike Johnson, the newly elected House speaker? (CBS)

Other trending headlines

United Auto Workers union and Ford reach tentative labor agreement (CNN)

Trump fraud trial: Trump takes stand briefly, fined $10K for violating gag order (ABC)

Consumer Reports finds more lead and cadmium in chocolate (Yahoo)

Hurricane Otis unleashes massive flooding in Acapulco, triggers landslides before dissipating (AP)
WASHINGTON, D. C. - Members of the Senate Banking Committee chaired by U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown and witnesses before the committee on Thursday called for a crackdown on organizations and countries that fund terrorist organizations like Hamas, which killed more than 1,400 people in Israel on Oct. 7.

We need to not only identify the bad actors but identify their money pipeline so we can shut off their funding, said Brown, a Cleveland Democrat. We must undertake a more robust approach to identifying and preventing transactions that take place not only through financial institutions, but also through trade-based money laundering, cryptocurrency transactions, and other channels designed to avoid detection.

Alabama Republican Katie Britt, who had just returned from a bipartisan visit to Israel, Egypt and Saudi Arabia, described the terrorist attacks as pure evil, and said the terrorists recorded their atrocities fusing GoPro Cameras.

We must use every tool at our disposal to ensure that those who carried out these attacks and those who financially supported them will never be able to do that again, said Britt.

Witnesses at the hearing told the committee that Iran has been a major source of funding for Hamas and other terrorist organizations in the Middle East for decades. Matthew Levitt of the The Washington Institute for Near East Policy said Hamas ability to finance terrorist activities increased dramatically after it took over the Gaza Strip in 2007 by force of arms against their fellow Palestinians.

Youre able to tax, youre able to extort, youre able to racketeer, youre able to control borders, youre able to control customs and you raise a tremendous amount of money, said Levitt, who estimated Hamas revenue from those activites at two to three times the $70 million to $100 million it gets yearly from Iran.

If the Israelis succeed in dislodging Hamas from their governance and military infrastructure project in Gaza. That will be the single most significant way to deny them funds, but it will also remove from Hamas their largest expenses, Levitt continued. They will not have to pay teacher salaries and collect garbage so they will need less money to continue terrorism.

He said Hamas has also relied on gaining money by the use of fake charities that actually funnel donations to terrorist activities, and has also relied on bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to facilitate donations. He says the group also relies heavily on more traditional means of raising and moving money, including the use of shell companies, hawalas, and money laundering operations, as well as cryptocurrency.

To help reduce the amount of money Iran can spend to finance terrorism, Danielle Pletka of the American Enterprise Institute urged enforcement of sanctions against companies that buy oil from Iran, which she said are mainly businesses in the Peoples Republic of China.

She said that the Biden administrations failure to enforce the sanctions in hopes of reinstating the Iranian nuclear deal has allowed Iran to export $81 billion to $91 billion in oil since 2021. While prioritizing concern about Irans nuclear program, she said the Biden administration has deprioritized concern about its support for terrorism and its human rights record.

We need to tighten the screws on Iran in every single aspect, said Pletka.

She also criticized the Biden administration for releasing $6 billion to Iran as part of a deal that led Iran to release five imprisoned Americans, and questioned whether Qatar would follow through with a freeze on the money imposed after the Oct. 7 attack, and would end up dispersing the money to Iran.

Pletka also called for Congress to question Qatars role in the region, and declared that its efforts to position itself as an impartial entrepreneurial fiscal middleman in the region is garbage, because it favors Islamist extremist organizations including Hamas, the Taliban, al Qaeda and ISIS.

Shlomit Wagman of the Harvard Kennedy School called for full package of financial sanctions against Hamas by the global community, to cut their oxygen, their funding as the United States did with Al Qaeda and ISIS after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C.

This fight against terrorism financing is a complex and challenging one, said Wagman. We must protect our citizens from threats of terrorism and we must do it by cutting off the flow of money to terrorism organizations. Lets find a way to ensure that those action will not happen again, not in Israel, and also not in other countries in the world.

Brown urged the Biden administration to take additional steps to impose sanctions and dedicate resources toward a multilateral effort to coordinate with allies to track, freeze, and seize any Hamas-related assets, and take steps necessary to deny Hamas terrorists the ability to raise funds.

He also said the United States needs to crack down on the use of cryptocurrencies to fund terrorism and evade sanctions.

Weve strengthened our money laundering rules and our sanctions tools in a bipartisan way, and we can do it again, said Brown. We need a comprehensive approach to shutting off Irans funding sources  not just the $6 billion, but the many more billions of dollars Iran uses to continue its destabilizing activities in the middle east and around the world. Now is the time, once again, to act.

Sabrina Eaton writes about the federal government and politics in Washington, D.C., for cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer.
CPC delegation wraps up visit to Kiribati

Xinhua) 13:04, October 26, 2023

SYDNEY, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC) wrapped up a four-day visit to Kiribati on Thursday.

The delegation, led by Guo Yezhou, deputy head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, was invited by the ruling Tobwaan Kiribati Party.

During the visit from Oct. 23 to 26, the delegation met with Kiribati Minister for Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development Ruateki Tekaiara, Acting Chief Justice Tetiro Semilota, Minister for Information, Communication, Transport and Tourism Development Tekeeua Tarati, Chairman of the Tobwaan Kiribati Party Betero Atanibora and some other cabinet members.

Both sides acknowledged that the two countries have carried out fruitful cooperation, which proves that the resumption of diplomatic relations is in the interests of the two peoples. The two sides also expressed willingness to further promote a long-term and stable development of the China-Kiribati relations.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Rotunda Rumblings

Renewables for coal? Two House Republicans proposed legislation that would allow a company that makes coke  made from coal and used in steel  to claim renewable energy credits they can sell to utilities for cash. The sponsors, and owner SunCoke Energy, say the facility should get a REC because it resells heat waste to a neighboring facility, which uses that heat instead of natural gas for fuel. But Jake Zuckerman reports this would entail credits designed to prop up a renewable energy market flowing to a business with a history of environmental problems thats reliant on coal, a carbon intensive fossil fuel.

Whoops: The campaign trying to get a redistricting reform measure before voters had been cleared to begin gathering the hundreds of thousands of voter signatures they need to get to qualify for the November 2024 ballot. But Citizens Not Politicians said Wednesday theyre starting the legal process over after noticing a typo on petition language summarizing the measures effects. Andrew Tobias writes the issue has to do with a discrepancy in describing a legal deadline by which new maps would have to be approved if the measure passes. The summary says Sept. 15, 2025, while the amendment itself says Sept. 19 2025. The setback likely shouldnt block the amendment campaign from meeting a July deadline, but will delay them from collecting voter signatures for another month or so.

Get well soon: State Rep. Mike Skindell of Lakewood, the longest-serving Democrat in the Ohio legislature, is in the hospital after undergoing open-heart surgery late last week. As Jeremy Pelzer reports, Skindell  who hopes his experience shows people the need to take even mild heart disease conditions seriously  is one of a number of veteran Ohio legislators who have recently suffered significant medical issues.

Vance unmasked: The U.S. Senate on Wednesday approved a proposal introduced by Ohios JD Vance that would block the Department of Transportation from using any federal money to enforce mask mandates in response to COVID-19 through the current fiscal year, Sabrina Eaton reports. The Cincinnati Republicans amendment to a transportation spending bill was approved by a 59 to 38 margin. Vance said COVID will be with us for the rest of our lives and there should not be a never ending cycle of public health panic that surrounds it.

Speaking out: Ohio Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday said they were pleased to elect Louisianas Mike Johnson as speaker, ending several weeks of paralysis triggered by the ouster of Californias Kevin McCarthy. Now, its time to fund the government, secure the border, and get America back on track, South Russells Dave Joyce said on social media. Meanwhile, Democrats criticized Johnson as an extremist, with Akrons Emilia Sykes saying: Im disappointed that after three weeks of House Republicans fighting amongst themselves and forcing Congress to a standstill, they have chosen to elect an extreme House Speaker that supported efforts to overturn the 2020 election, wants to criminalize abortion nationwide, and has worked to slash Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

EPA grant: Cuyahoga Countys board of health on Tuesday was awarded $1 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a project that will help address the impacts of climate change in Cuyahoga County using Health Impact Assessments. For generations we lived with environmental injustice in Northeast Ohio, where the communities most harmed also had the fewest resources to respond, said a statement from U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown, a Warrensville Heights Democrat who announced the grant. We have an obligation to turn the tide, and I will continue to work with the White House to stand up for Black and Brown neighborhoods in our region.

Rural internet money: U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown announced Wednesday that the Appalachian Regional Commission has awarded nearly $9 million for high-speed internet infrastructure and economic development projects in Ohio, including $2.5 million to provide high-speed internet service for about 90 Ashtabula County businesses and 2,986 residences. Every Ohio family, every Ohio business should have reliable high-speed internet, the Cleveland Democrat told reporters. You shouldnt have to live in a big city or wealthy suburb to have access to a crucial aspect of modern society.

Fighting youth homelessness: The Ohio Department of Development will get $5.2 million and the city of Akron will get $1.5 million from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for programs to prevent and end youth homelessness, Brown announced. Too many young Ohioans dont have a safe place to sleep at night, said a statement from Brown. These investments will help provide critical support and services for young Ohioans experiencing homelessness.

Brown undecided on Issue 2: Brown also told reporters hes not decided whether to support Issue 2, which would legalize recreational marijuana in Ohio, in next months election. Brown described it as a nuanced, complicated issue, that isnt as clear as Issue 1, which is about womens reproductive freedoms. He said he plans to discuss it with his wife and make a decision in the next few days.

Farm team: Brown announced Wednesday that hes collaborated with Maine Republican Susan Collins to introduce legislation called the Farm to School Act that would increase funding for Agriculture Department farm to school grant programs from $5 million to $15 million each year and boost the maximum grant award to $500,000. The legislation would also expand the scope of the program, which purchases locally grown foods for student lunches, to include pre-schools, summer food service and after-school programs.

Suburban reshuffle: State Rep. Beth Liston, a Columbus-area Democrat, told Gongwer News Service (subscription required) shell forego a fourth House term and run instead next year for Senate District 16. That Senate district in suburban Columbus is currently held by Republican state Sen. Stephanie Kunze, but Kunze is term-limited and the district was recently redrawn to be more Democratic-leaning. Democrat Crystal Lett told Gongwer she intends to run for House District 11, a tossup House district that Liston would run in next year if she decided to seek re-election. Kunze, who won reelection to the Senate in 2020 over Lett by about 100 votes, declined comment on her 2024 election plans.

Green with envy: The backers of Issue 2, the recreational marijuana ballot initiative, are finally on air with ads, less than two weeks before Election Day. The ad emphasizes booming Michigan marijuana businesses, with parking lots full of vehicles with Ohio license plates. It says Ohio is missing out on tax revenue thats going to Michigan. Tom Haren, an attorney with the backers, said the campaign made a statewide ad buy. In addition to televisions, the ad will play on streaming services. He declined to provide more details.

Tick Tock

The countdown is on for the November election, when Ohio voters will decide whether to enshrine a right to abortion in the state constitution and whether to legalize recreational marijuana. Heres the key dates to remember.

Election Day... 12 days (Nov. 7)

Heres how you can get more information on in-person early voting and absentee voting.

Full Disclosure

Here are five things we learned from the May 15, 2023 financial disclosure form filed by state Sen. Kristina Roegner, a Hudson Republican:

1. Besides Roegners legislative salary of $77,674.20 in 2022, she reported income from a wide number of investments, including dividends from more than 100 companies.Most paid less than $1,000 each, though she received more than $100,000 in dividends from Amcor, an Australia-based packaging company; somewhere between $25,000 and $49,999 in interest from the U.S. Treasury; and somewhere between $10,000  $24,999 each from selling stock in Chevron, selling securities connected with Charter Industries, a building materials supply company, and from Foundation Stone Logistics, a Northfield-based trucking company.

2. Other companies she had investments in include Arch Coal Altria Group, Microsoft, CVS, Smith & Wesson, Texas Roadhouse, Tesla, and Comcast.

3. She reported selling 28 securities last year for a loss, including stakes in Paypal, Target and Home Depot.

4. Not counting her personal residence, Roegner owns four properties in Akron.

5. Last year, Roegner accepted meals worth $120 from the Cleveland Orchestra and about $16 from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation.

Birthdays

State Rep. Beth Liston

Straight From The Source

I believe hunting and fishing is a right. Its something that weve done since the dawn of time, before governments ever existed.

- State Rep. Ron Ferguson, a Jefferson County Republican, speaking with the Columbus Dispatch about his proposed state constitutional amendment to guarantee the right to hunt and fish.

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.
In an interview with CNBC's Jim Cramer, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz said his company's goals are growing beyond the toy aisle and into capturing the value of its brands' intellectual property for ventures like film franchises.

"We are here to build film franchises," Kreiz said. "We don't say that every movie will be as successful as Barbie, but we intend to apply the same methodology, the same approach, the same capabilities."

Kreiz said the Barbie was a showcase for what Mattel can bring to the table in the future. He said the company aims to amplify its brands' cultural resonance, attract top talent to its projects and successfully market products outside of stores.

"This is about how do you take successful brands and execute an IP strategy across multiple verticals, highly-accredited business verticals that in some cases are bigger than the toy industry, all driven by big franchises," Kreiz said.

Mattel reported earnings after Wednesday's close, beating Wall Street estimates in revenue and earnings per share. Mattel also saw 19% growth in its sales of Hot Wheels toys this quarter, and Kreiz said the company sees "tremendous opportunity ahead" with the brand, mentioning the upcoming live-action Hot Wheels film produced by JJ Abrams.
Workations continue to be on the rise as companies offer employees more flexibility.

The pandemic might be over, but working remotely is a trend that's set to stay as millennials and Gen Z's continue to work while visiting their favorite destinations.

That's according to WorkMotion, a Berlin-based human resource platform, which analyzed 85 cities around the globe to see how easy and attractive they were for remote workers.

The report refers to "workcation" as a short term residence  of about 12 months or fewer  in a country while working remotely for a existing employer.

The cities were graded based on the following categories:

Type of visa needed

Remote working infrastructure

Visitor experience

Safety

Health-care access

Housing access

Mobility

Happiness

Income tax rate

Food and housing affordability

"When identifying possible destinations for [workcation], remote workers must consider a range of factors ranging from the practical to the desirable," said Carsten Lebtig, co-Founder and managing director of WorkMotion.

"Not many cities can offer them all, but it's undeniable that cities legislating to attract remote workers become far more attractive than those that don't," he said, elaborating that only a handful of cities in the study offered remote workers a digital nomad visa that would allow them to continue employment in the country they relocated to.

Only 17 out of the 85 cities offer a digital nomad visa for remote workers.

Only one city on the list had an overall score of 100, while the other top nine countries had scores that ranged from 90.3 to 99.9, according to the report.
WUHAN, CHINA - MAY 25: (CHINA OUT) Attendees wear protective masks as they look around the at BMW Ix3 during 2023 Central China International Auto Show on May 25, 2023 in Wuhan, Hubei province, China. More than 80 brands took part in the 2023 Central China International Auto Show which started on Thursday. According to local reports more than 40 brands electric vehicle brands participated in the exhibition. (Photo by Getty Images)

German automaker BMW Group said that diversifying its supply chains away from China does not mean it is leaving the country completely.

"We always try to diversify our risks. This is not leaving a country or leaving a specific region," CEO Oliver Zipse told CNBC's Martin Soong in an exclusive interview.

"Especially the BMW Vision Neue Klasse, it will not be a small volume. So we need large suppliers  we need more than one anyway," said Zipse, during the Japan Mobility Show 2023. BMW revealed its new electric concept car, Vision Neue Klasse, in September as it looks to take on Tesla .

BMW is not leaving China, he said, adding that free trade is "fundamental to our business model."

In July, Germany had urged companies to "de-risk" from China, warning that Beijing's economic strategy aims to make it less dependent on other countries, while making international production chains more dependent on China.

"For Germany, China remains a partner, a competitor, a systemic rival. But the aspect of systemic rivalry has become increasingly prominent in recent years," Germany's foreign minister Annalena Baerbock had said at that time.

"This is having an impact on European and global security," the German foreign ministry said in a 64-page report.
Gianluca Grimalda, a climate researcher and environmental campaigner, intends to "slow travel" back to Europe from Bougainville off the coast of Papua New Guinea. Gianluca Grimalda

Gianluca Grimalda was faced with a dilemma. His employer, the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, a think tank based in Germany, ordered him at short notice to wrap up his fieldwork in Bougainville off the coast of Papua New Guinea in the southwestern Pacific and return to his desk  or lose his job. The ultimatum effectively required Grimalda, a climate researcher and self-styled "slow traveler," to promptly board a flight back to Europe. He refused and was fired  but says he would make the same decision again in a heartbeat. Speaking to CNBC from the remote province of East New Britain in Papua New Guinea, Grimalda said he started "slow traveling" about 13 years ago as part of an attempt to be at peace with himself during the deepening climate crisis. In practice, that meant flying as little as possible when attending international conferences and instead prioritizing more sustainable methods of transport to reduce his environmental footprint.

In the current situation, I think the really insane thing is to get on with business as usual because it is really an abnormal situation. Gianluca Grimalda Climate researcher

Emissions from air travel are a significant contributor to climate change and aviation is known to be one of the most challenging sectors to decarbonize. Indeed, researchers have estimated that air travel accounts for about 4% of human-induced global warming. "Even when coming here seven months ago I managed to slow travel only until Singapore, then I caught a plane because it was just impossible  as I know now  to find some kind of different mode of transport from airplanes," Grimalda said. "I was really determined to come back entirely 'no fly,' partly for my own moral commitment  but I also wanted to send a strong signal that in the current situation of progressive climate breakdown, it is very important that what we consider extraordinary actions become more and more normal." Grimalda said on Tuesday that he'd been stuck on a cargo ship in a compound in East New Britain for the past 10 days. However, he hoped to be able to resume his epic journey of 15,000 miles (24,140 kilometers) via overland routes from Friday. He plans to finally make it back to Europe around the second week of December.

Grimalda spent several months conducting fieldwork into the social impact of climate change on the island of Bougainville. Gianluca Grimalda

On returning to Germany later this year, Grimalda said, he intends to file a lawsuit against his former employer for unlawful dismissal. A spokesperson for the Kiel Institute for the World Economy told CNBC that the institute does not comment on internal personnel matters in public. "What is public and obvious: Dr. Grimalda planned his trip to Papua with our support. We supported an earlier 'slow travel' trip to Papua by him before," the spokesperson said, adding that the institute always supports its employees traveling in a climate-friendly way during business trips. "We are committed to do without air travel in Germany and in other EU countries as far as we can. If air travel is necessary, we provide CO compensation. We pay to Atmosfair to offset emissions through climate protection projects," they added.

'I think it was the right decision'

Grimalda's slow journey home comes after several months conducting fieldwork into the social impact of climate change on the island of Bougainville. He said the completion of his research project had been delayed by a series of unforeseeable incidents, from "major security threats" to a volcanic eruption. When asked how he felt about losing his job because of his refusal to fly, Grimalda said, "I think it was a price worth paying and it is something I would do again for at least three reasons." "First of all, I perceived this request by my institute as a kind of moral and psychological blackmail and I thought that if I had given in to such a blackmail I would have lost of my dignity. So, I really didn't want to give in on that." "The second was that I had made a promise to all 1,800 participants in my research that I would have made everything possible to alleviate their suffering. These are people that experience climate change on a daily basis," he added, noting that the coastal communities he'd interacted with had been forced to relocate inland in light of the rising sea level. "And finally, I thought that in the end this was an opportunity that maybe I had to take because as a concerned climate scientist and concerned citizen for the climate breakdown, I really am trying everything possible."
Comcast topped both revenue and profit estimates in the third quarter, but the largest U.S. internet provider lost high-speed broadband customers and NBCUniversal advertising revenue slumped.

Shares of the company slipped more than 8% Thursday.

NBCUniversal's flagship streaming service Peacock added 4 million subscribers and revenue increased 64% to $830 million, stemming the subscription service's adjusted quarterly loss to $565 million. Peacock lost an adjusted $614 million in the same period a year prior on $506 million in revenue.

Here's how Comcast performed, compared with estimates from analysts surveyed by LSEG, formerly known as Refinitiv.

Earnings per share : $1.08 adjusted vs. 95 cents estimated

: $1.08 adjusted vs. 95 cents estimated Revenue: $30.12 billion vs. $29.68 billion estimated

For the quarter ended Sept. 30, Comcast reported net income of $4 billion, or 98 cents per share, compared with a loss of $4.6 billion, or $1.05 cents per share, a year earlier. Adjusted for one-time items, per-share earnings were $1.08 in the quarter. The prior year's results were affected by one-time impairment and goodwill charges associated Comcast's 2018 acquisition of Sky.

Revenue rose 0.9% compared with the prior-year period. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) rose 5.1% to $9.96 billion.

Read Comcast's full earnings release.

Theme parks' adjusted EBITDA increased 20% to $983 million  the highest quarterly profit on record for the division  driven by the popularity of Super Nintendo World in Universal Studios Hollywood, Comcast said.

Comcast lost 18,000 high-speed broadband customers in the quarter and 490,000 video subscribers as Americans continue to drop traditional cable TV for streaming services. The company ended the quarter with 14.5 million video subscribers and 29.8 million residential broadband customers.

U.S. broadband revenue rose 3.8% to $6.4 billion even as subscribers fell due to higher rates.

Wireless revenue rose 16% to $917 million in the quarter on a net addition of 294,000 customers. Comcast ended the quarter with 6.3 million wireless customers. Comcast uses Verizon's network to provide branded Xfinity wireless coverage from an agreement struck in 2016.
European stock markets closed lower Thursday as attention remained on third-quarter earnings and government bond yields. The regional Stoxx 600 ended down 0.5%, with most sectors and major bourses in negative territory. Auto stocks plunged 2.1% to lead losses as results disappointed, while travel stocks dipped 1.3%. Tech shook off early jitters to end 0.2% higher. The index trimmed losses after the European Central Bank confirmed expectations it would hold interest rates steady after 10 consecutive hikes, while the euro remained under pressure against sterling and the U.S. dollar.

European markets



Standard Chartered was down 12% after the British bank posted a huge profit miss as it revealed a $1 billion hit from exposure to the Chinese banking and real estate sectors. Meanwhile, shares of Siemens Energy tumbled 35% on Thursday, after the wind power giant sought guarantees from the German government. Results are out from a slew of companies including BNP Paribas, TotalEnergies, Volvo Cars, Novozymes, Volkswagen, Carrefour, Saab and Wacker Chemie. Investors are also assessing the activity stateside in a busy week for tech earnings, with Facebook owner Meta reporting better-than-expected results after the bell. U.S. stocks were lower on Thursday after a broad selloff Wednesday, fueled by disappointing results from Alphabet.
Prabhakar Raghavan, of Google Inc., speaks during the company's Cloud Next '18 event in San Francisco, California, July 24, 2018.

As Google fights claims that it violated antitrust law to maintain its online search dominance, the company's search lead testified Thursday that young users mock Google as old-fashioned.

Prabhakar Raghavan, a Google senior vice president responsible for for products including search, ads and commerce, said that some young users have referred to the search engine as "Grandpa Google."

He explained that the term refers to the idea that while Google might be fine to ask a question about homework, young users would prefer to take their more interesting queries elsewhere.

It's not entirely clear where Raghavan saw the term. Searching "Grandpa Google" on social media sites like TikTok yields videos and memes of grandparents searching for information.

The comment is indicative of a key theme of Raghavan's testimony, which marked the official first day of Google's presentation of its defense against claims from the Department of Justice and a group of state attorneys general that it violated antitrust law. The government spent over a month presenting its case alleging that Google illegally leveraged its dominance to maintain its monopoly in search. It's defined Google's competitors in search as a handful of much smaller general search engines like Microsoft's Bing or DuckDuckGo.

But Raghavan testified that threats to Google's position are very much real and extend far beyond competitors that closely mirror its functions. He said that innovation in the search engine is what has allowed it to maintain market share.

Raghavan testified that Yahoo's search dominance at one point seemed insurmountable. But, he said, Google was eventually able to surpass Yahoo through better ranking as well as innovations in the search product. For example, Google has conducted research that's led to features that let it directly answer users' questions, understand voice queries and lens queries, where users search via a photo they take.

Now that most consumers have a smartphone, users often conduct searches within their own apps, Raghavan said. He gave the example of booking a vacation, where users might use a variety of apps to book their flights and amenities.

"We don't see users carrying through these journeys entirely on Google," Raghavan testified. "They go in and out and spend a lot of time on these other platforms."

When it comes to specialized vertical search engines, such as Yelp or Expedia , Raghavan said, "I see myself as competing with them every day."

Commercial search is also important to Google, Raghavan said. Amazon is one of the companies that he said he closely watches.

"For Google to be a successful company, we should be good at answering any kind of query, including commercial queries," Raghavan said. "I believe that if we become second class  we become irrelevant over time."

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WATCH: Where have all of the laid off tech workers gone?
U.S. chipmaker Nvidia has been getting a lot of love from market watchers this year  and growth investor Nick Griffin is no exception. The founding partner and chief investment officer at the Australia-headquartered Munro Partners says he has "always liked" Nvidia, even while it might be considered "a very difficult stock to own." Nvidia "is in about 700 ETFs [exchange-traded funds] and it goes all over the shop. I think I said at the start of 2022 that I thought Nvidia would be the biggest company in the world  and it fell 60% that year and has since risen another 300% since then," Griffin said during CNBC's Pro Talks . Year-to-date, shares in the chipmaker are up nearly 200%, even as it experienced a pullback in the past week following the U.S. government's curbs on the export of artificial intelligence chips to China over concerns they could be used for military development purposes. This will restrict the export of chipmaker A800 and H800 chips, according to the officials. Prior to this, Nvidia's H100 chip had been banned for sale as part of restrictions by the U.S. government. NVDA YTD mountain Year-to-date share price of Nvidia Griffin does not expect this phenomenon to have a significant impact on the company in the long-term. "Nvidia makes the most important semiconductors in the world and everybody wants to get their hands on them. So, short-term, I understand the negativity  but long-term, it's not going to change the fact that people want to buy their chips," Griffin said. Some 53 analysts cover Nvidia, with 33 giving it a buy rating, and 18 giving a strong buy according to FactSet data, at an average price target of $630.06  which represents an upside potential of around 50%. 'Getting ahead of itself' Griffin  who has had holdings in the chipmaker for five years  notes that it has had the habit of "getting ahead of itself" and "getting oversold ... because of all the noise around it." "The company is executing on a roadmap they have effectively told us about for a decade. From our point of view, I think [with] Nvidia, you find the size you want to hold it at and you hold it and you don't trade it. I think you'd be perfectly comfortable at the sort of size to hold over a number of years," he added. For instance, Nvidia has been talking about powering its graphic process units with generative artificial intelligence, even before the trend picked up. The company currently holds a sizable market share of around 85% in GPUs (graphic processing units) and close to a 100% share in the server market, Griffin said. Going forward he foresees an increase in the demand for GPUs - which would possibly chip away Nvidia's market share to around 60%. This trend coupled with an expansion in Nvidia data centre sales spend would give the company an earnings per share of around $30 to $40 by 2030, Griffin estimates. While this may mean a loss of market share to its fellow chipmakers, the growth investor believes that Nvidia is in "a very unique position." "The whole industry was going one way and Nvidia was going the other way. And not just the last couple of years, [but] for decades. And now the whole industry has come to where Nvidia is. But the funny thing is, Nvidia has all the developers on Cuda that they need to program these products, and they have the best chips to program these products," he said. Cuda is Nvidia's computing platform and application programming interface that allows software to use certain types of graphics processing units for general purpose processing. Nonetheless, Griffin does expect the chipmaker to face competition as the industry plays catchup and a "second player" that would build its own chips and software, emerges. The growth investor  who manages around 4.3 billion Australian dollars ($2.7 billion) in assets  focuses on investing in equities. The Munro Growth Fund he oversees has been up some 9.9% since its inception in 2016.
An injured man sits in front of a smouldering building in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City on October 26, 2023, as battles continue between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas group. (Photo by Omar El-Qattaa / AFP) (Photo by OMAR EL-QATTAA/AFP via Getty Images)

The U.S. has launched military strikes on two facilities in eastern Syria on President Joe Biden's orders. The facilities, used by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, were hit in retaliation for attacks on U.S. forces, the U.S. Department of Defense said late Thursday.

"The United States does not seek conflict and has no intention nor desire to engage in further hostilities, but these Iranian-backed attacks against U.S. forces are unacceptable and must stop," said U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin.

Earlier, the foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Egypt and Morocco condemned the targeting of civilians and violations of international law in Gaza by Israeli forces.

In a joint statement, the Arab nations reportedly said that Israel's right to self-defense following Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks did not justify breaking the law and neglecting Palestinians' rights.
CNBC confirmed the signage by signing on to the virtual protest area, which has now been visited more than 275,000 times, although Roblox confirmed to CNBC that that count can include multiple visits by one user. Attendees could choose between virtually raising a Palestinian flag, a Malaysian flag or no flag.

Videos circulating on social media and past livestreams of at least one event showed users marching on virtual brick streets lined with Palestinian flags and large signs that read "Solidarity Untukmu Palestine," a phrase including a Malay term that translates to "Solidarity for you Palestine," according to Google Translate. Malaysia has been the site of pro-Palestinian protests , and the country's prime minister, Anwar Ibrahim, recently criticized Israel's air strikes in the Gaza Strip .

Kids are attending pro-Palestinian protests on Roblox in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, and so far, a pro-Palestinian virtual protest has been visited more than 275,000 times.

About 45% of Roblox users are 12 years old or younger, according to Roblox data from December 2022, and 60% of users were 16 or younger. Just 17% of users are age 25 or older, per the same company report. Social media comments viewed by CNBC seemed to show parents saying that their daughters and sons had joined, or planned on joining, the experience on Roblox.

A Roblox spokesperson confirmed to CNBC that the experience "did appear on our platform," adding that the protest showcased in viral videos was one of multiple pro-Palestinian protests on Roblox that the company is aware of.

The protests follow weeks of death and destruction in Israel and Gaza. On Oct. 7, Hamas, the Palestinian militant organization, carried out attacks near the Israel-Gaza border, killing civilians and taking hostages, and the following day, Israel declared war and began implementing a siege of Gaza, cutting off access to power, food, water and fuel. As of Wednesday, more than 1,400 Israelis have been killed, according to a spokesperson for the Israeli Defense Forces; in Gaza and the West Bank, the death toll is more than 6,600, according to two health ministries in the region.

"While our Community Standards allow for expressions of solidarity, we do not allow for content that endorses or condones violence, promotes terrorism or hatred against individuals or groups, or calls for supporting a specific political party," a Roblox spokesperson told CNBC. "We have an expert team of thousands of moderators along with automated detection tools in place to monitor our platform and will take swift action against any content or individuals found to be in violation of our standards."

Clarification: Pro-Palestinian supporters have taken to Roblox to protest the Israel-Hamas war. The characterization of the protestors was unclear in an earlier version of this article.
Merck on Thursday reported third-quarter revenue and adjusted earnings that topped expectations on strong sales of its blockbuster cancer drug Keytruda, HPV vaccine Gardasil and surprisingly, its Covid drug Lagevrio.

The pharmaceutical giant also increased its full-year sales forecast to $59.7 billion to $60.2 billion, slightly higher than the $58.6 billion to $59.6 billion guidance provided in August.

Merck lowered its adjusted profit guidance to $1.33 to $1.38 per share, from a previous forecast of $2.95 to $3.05 a share. But that updated outlook reflects an upfront charge of $5.5 billion, or $1.70 per share, related to the company's recent drug collaboration agreement with Daiichi Sankyo.

That guidance also includes previously announced one-time charges related to the company's acquisitions of Prometheus Biosciences and Imago BioSciences, along with another upfront payment related to a collaboration deal with Kelun-Biotech.

Here's what Merck reported for the third quarter compared with what Wall Street was expecting, based on a survey of analysts by LSEG, formerly known as Refinitiv:

Earnings per share: $2.13 adjusted vs. $1.95 expected

$2.13 adjusted vs. $1.95 expected Revenue: $15.96 billion vs. $15.32 billion expected

Shares of Merck closed nearly 2% higher on Thursday. The stock is down 5% this year. It has a market value of roughly $268 billion, making it one of the largest pharmaceutical companies based in the U.S.

Merck raked in $15.96 billion in revenue for the quarter, up 7% from the same period a year ago.

The company posted net income of $4.75 billion, or $1.86 per share. That compares with $3.25 billion, or $1.28 per share, for the same period a year ago.

Excluding certain items, Merck's adjusted earnings per share were $2.13 for the period.

Merck's pharmaceutical business, which develops a wide range of drugs for different disease areas, posted $14.26 billion in revenue during the quarter. That's up 10% from the same period a year ago.

Excluding Lagevrio, pharmaceutical sales grew 9%. The Covid antiviral treatment brought in $640 million in sales for the quarter, up 47% from the third quarter of 2022. Merck said that growth was due to higher demand in Japan, partially offset by lower demand in Australia and the nonrecurrence of sales in the U.K.
Morgan Stanley (MS) has finally named a successor to longtime CEO James Gorman  removing a big question mark for investors like us. Ted Pick, a 33-year banking vet who has served as co-president of Morgan Stanley for the last two years, will succeed Gorman on Jan. 1, according to Wednesday's announcement . Pick was previously the head of equity capital markets and global head of sales and trading. During Thursday's Morning Meeting , Jim Cramer described Pick's ascension to the top job as terrific, because "it removes an uncertainty" for the firm at a time of macroeconomic and geopolitical challenges and allows for in-house continuity during the transition. That's a good thing since Pick plans to double down on Gorman's multiyear transition to lean more heavily on wealth management amid muted investment banking demand for initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions. In the third quarter, however, both segments were soft , leading to a 6.8% decline in shares on Oct. 18, the day of the earnings release. We knew about the IB weakness since initial public offerings and mergers and acquisitions have been dormant for years and only recently perked up. But wealth management was a surprise. Morgan Stanley said it's still on track to add $1 trillion in net new assets every three years. We believe that goal is still attainable and so does the incoming CEO. "The business strategy is sound. There will be no change in strategy. We know what we are after 15 years of transformation under James' extraordinary guidance," Pick told CNBC in an interview. "There are so many opportunities to grow both of them globally. It's a strategy that's in place and we're gonna keep with it." Gorman, 65, previously forecasted that M & A activity would increase in 2023. He acknowledged on Thursday, sitting next to Pick, that the bank won't see a bump in revenue until probably the first quarter of next year. "There's a little bit of a lag, but it's coming," explained Gorman, who will stay on as executive chairman for an undisclosed period of time. "That's the least of my stresses in life." The 54-year-old Pick emphasized Gorman's prediction: "There's no doubt strategic M & A is coming. Three years [of] the pandemic, the war, second war, boardrooms can wait just so long," he said. "Now, the large-cap M & A cycle is going to begin." MS YTD mountain Morgan Stanley (MS) year-to-date performance Gorman is ready to hand over the reins after navigating years of uncertainty at the helm of the bank. In 2010, he stepped in as CEO in the wake of the Great Financial Crisis, navigating the firm during a period when it came dangerously close to shuttering. In a bid to stabilize the bank, Gorman built out its wealth management segment, aiming to bring more reliable, recurring revenue streams to offset the weakness in its investment banking business. Morgan Stanley needs a battle-tested exec who can navigate a murky operating environment, and Gorman said Pick fits the bill. "I have worked side by side with Ted since the financial crisis," Gorman said in a press release. Pick "understands complex risk, and works very effectively not just in the U.S., but around the globe," the outgoing CEO added. Additionally, the other potential candidates for the CEO role are staying at Morgan Stanley, with the firm avoiding any unnecessary disturbance and furthering a smooth leadership handover. Morgan Stanley co-president Andy Saperstein was named the head of wealth and investment management. Dan Simkowitz will become co-president of the firm and the head of institutional securities. Morgan Stanley shares have dropped about 15% year to date. But the stock has performed better than many of its peers during a tough year for the industry  touched off by the March failure of Silicon Valley Bank. (Jim Cramer's Charitable Trust is long MS. 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.

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Investors looking for artificial intelligence beneficiaries outside the megacap tech companies can search in a less buzzy part of markets  old economy stocks. Beyond this year's tech stock leaders such as Nvidia , "it is a broader base in technology" that is set to drive future returns, Nancy Tengler, chief investment officer at Laffer Tengler Investments, said in an interview earlier this month. "And that's our investing theme: Old economy companies that are embracing the digital revolution and the suppliers of the digital, you know, generative AI, cloud and cybersecurity tools," Tengler added. While megacap tech stocks have outperformed this year, helped by a surge of AI enthusiasm, the broader market has been left behind. In fact, while the S & P 500 is higher by 9% this year, the equal-weighted index is down by 4%. To be sure, Tengler is still overweight the tech sector. But searching for more traditional companies embracing digitization could help investors identify less apparent beneficiaries of the AI boom, she said. Such companies are using digitization to boost productivity and streamline operations. "What we really like are the companies that are embracing digitization in their business, and improving margins," said Tengler, who holds oversized positions in the consumer discretionary, industrials and technology sectors of the market. One example she considers a buying opportunity is Emerson Electric . She said the engineering services provider, founded in 1890 as a maker of electric motors and fans, is improving industrial processes for its clients with its digital solutions. In fact, KeyBanc analyst Ken Newman initiated coverage of Emerson this month with an overweight rating, saying the artificial intelligence offerings in the company's AspenTech software for workplace optimization is a key growth opportunity. "We think EMR's transformation from a diversified Industrial conglomerate to a pure play automation company should unlock higher growth, margins, and earnings power over the course of the cycle," Newman wrote in an October 2 note. CNBC Pro's analyst consensus tool shows Emerson has an average buy rating, with almost 24% upside to an average price target of roughly $110. The stock closed Wednesday at $88.83. Another buying opportunity is Xylem , a water treatment company that is expanding its digital capabilities. Notably, Oppenheimer upgraded the stock this month to outperform from perform, saying Xylem's acquisition of Evoqua Water Technologies this year helps set it on a path to 50% digital revenue by 2025. Another company Tengler likes is Carrier Global , a maker of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Among consumer staples plays, Walmart has grown its ecommerce business and improved store productivity. McDonalds and Starbucks are two other names Tengler highlights as attractive. She also likes Public Storage , which allows customers to open storage locker rentals online without dealing with a representative. "It's a lot more profitable," Tengler said.  CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed to this report.
Pfizer on Thursday said its combination vaccine candidates targeting Covid and the flu will move to a final-stage trial in the coming months after showing positive initial results in an early to mid-stage study.

That moves the pharmaceutical giant and its German partner BioNTech one step closer to winning a potential regulatory approval for a combination shot for Covid and the flu. Earlier this year, Pfizer said it hopes to launch a vaccine targeting those two respiratory viruses in 2024 or later.

Pfizer and other vaccine makers like Moderna and Novavax believe combination shots will simplify the process for people to protect themselves against respiratory viruses that typically surge around the same time of the year.

"This vaccine has the potential to lessen the impact of two respiratory diseases with a single injection and may simplify immunization practices," Annaliesa Anderson, Pfizer's head of vaccine research and development, said in a release.

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said during an investor call earlier this month that he believes the convenience offered by combination vaccines will "unlock a significant potential by improving the vaccination rates."

Covid vaccine rates in the U.S. were bleak last year, and could look the same this year.

The trial measured the safety, tolerability and efficacy of Pfizer's combination vaccine candidates among adults ages 18 to 64. The trial also compared the combination vaccines to a licensed influenza vaccine and Pfizer's bivalent Covid shot, which targets the omicron variants BA.4 and BA.5 and the original strain of the virus.

The results showed that "lead" formulations of Pfizer's combination vaccine demonstrated robust immune responses to influenza A, influenza B and Covid strains, according to Pfizer. The safety profiles of the combination vaccine candidates were also consistent with the company's Covid vaccine.

Pfizer and BioNTech are also developing a vaccine that targets both Covid and RSV. Meanwhile, both Moderna and Novavax are developing their own combination shots.
Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a press conference at the Commonwealth of Independent States' head of states meeting on Oct. 13, 2023, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Getty Images

With Russia's invasion of Ukraine its most pressing geopolitical priority for at least the last 19 months, Moscow has not had much time or opportunity to hold as much power and influence over all its other neighbors  a position it has enjoyed since the breakup of the Soviet Union more than 30 years ago. Russia's influence in parts of the South Caucasus region  which includes Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia  and other former Soviet republics such as Belarus and those further afield, such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, differs from state to state. It's also largely dependent on the degree of pro-Western or pro-Russian sentiment among the people and leadership, as well as the level of economic and geopolitical reliance on Moscow. But analysts say one thing is for certain: The war in Ukraine has created the irony that a distracted Russia has lost a degree of power, control and leverage over its own wider backyard.

Azerbaijan soldiers regulate traffic as refugees wait in their cars to leave Karabakh for Armenia, at the in Lachin border, on Sept. 26, 2023. Emmanuel Dunand | Afp | Getty Images

Azerbaijan's seizing of breakaway region Nagorno-Karabakh from Armenia in September highlighted Russia's somewhat weakened or reshaped role in the region  given its perceived lack of anticipation of the offensive and lack of intervention in a long-running dispute in which it has traditionally been a mediator. In a sign that Russia was caught off guard by the conflict in its own backyard, just one day before Azerbaijan launched its lightning offensive, Russia's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that the humanitarian situation was improving in Nagorno-Karabakh and hoped that would aid the "normalising" of Armenian-Azerbaijani relations.

This pool photograph distributed by Russian state owned agency Sputnik shows Russia's President Vladimir Putin and his Kyrgyz counterpart Sadyr Japarov attending a welcoming ceremony prior to their talks in Bishkek on October 12, 2023. Sergei Karpukhin | AFP | Getty Images

The Kremlin rejects accusations that it no longer has the leadership status it once enjoyed, with President Vladimir Putin's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov telling CNBC that "there is no such possibility" that Moscow's influence has waned among its neighbors. "Each area is equally important for Russia. Russia continues to play its role in the Caucasus," Peskov said in emailed comments.

Russia seen in a new light

Geopolitical analysts are not so unequivocal, saying Russia's failure to seize Ukraine in a matter of days  as Moscow expected  when its forces first invaded in February 2022, showed its military capabilities in a new light to its neighbors. "The question arose about the real fighting capacity of the Russian army," Vira Konstantinova, political scientist and international relations specialist, told CNBC. Within the first month of fighting, and with Russian forces withdrawing from the outskirts of Kyiv, Ukraine's armed forces had managed to debunk a "key myth of Russian propaganda," she noted  that Russia's army was powerful, well equipped and capable. In fact, she said, Kyiv's resistance highlighted to Russia's neighbors and partners that "Russian power is a bubble with only a nuclear button in its center."

Russian President Vladimir Putin enters the hall during Russian-Uzbek talks at the Grand Kremlin Palace on Oct. 6, 2023. Getty Images

Russian opposition politician Vladimir Milov, who once worked under Putin in the early days of his leadership, before becoming disillusioned with Russia's geopolitical direction of travel, agreed that the war in Ukraine has, ironically, made Russia look weaker among its post-Soviet neighbors. "If you take Ukraine out of the equation it's really clear that Russia does not control the post-Soviet space, as Ukraine is bigger and more important than everything else. So it's fair to say that if you do not control Ukraine, you do not control the post-Soviet space," he told CNBC. "When it was clear that Russia was failing to establish dominance over Ukraine, everybody else also saw that and started to behave more independently. People see that they [Russia] is not achieving this ultimate task and that means they are weak and have to turn elsewhere," he noted. Milov said there used to be two schools of thought in Russia two decades ago: one is that Moscow needed to reassert dominance over its post-Soviet neighbors and another  followed by Milov  believed Russia's neighbors should be treated as equals and integrated, with Russia, into a broader Western space. Milov said his school of thought had been erased over time  Putin, he said, "squeezed it out."

Opportunity for the West

Geopolitical analysts say Russia's influence may have been shaken, but has certainly not disappeared  it remains a superpower among its neighbors and the possibility of further Russian intervention in Russian-backed breakaway regions such as Transnistria in Moldova and Abkhazia and South Ossetia in Georgia has not been discounted. Igor Semivolos, executive director of the Center for Middle East Studies in Ukraine, noted that while it could be said that the "intensity" of Russia's interactions in what it sees as its backyard has declined  particularly as it "concentrates the main effort on the Ukrainian question"  it's not entirely correct to say that "Russia has lost its grip." "In general, so far, the weakening is observed only in the context of the reduction of Russia's foreign policy initiatives in this region," he told CNBC in emailed comments, adding that Russia still "maneuvers and tries to distribute the resources to keep the situation under control." But if Western nations wanted to take the opportunity to break Russia's increasingly precarious hold over its neighbors, foreign policy initiatives and security guarantees are needed now, he said. "It's important that other powers start entering the region. The USA and Turkey [could] offer the countries their own security formulas [guarantees], and perhaps in the future, these security formulas will become more attractive than the Russian one," he said.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev addresses the nation after "anti-terror activities" organized by the Azerbaijani army in Karabakh, which resulted in a cease-fire in Baku, Azerbaijan, on Sept. 20, 2023. Anadolu Agency | Anadolu Agency | Getty Images
Lawyers for Sam Bankman-Fried late Wednesday revealed details of his planned testimony if he takes the witness stand at his FTX fraud trial. Bankman-Fried's legal team told Judge Lewis Kaplan in a six-page letter that he would address three key areas in such testimony, including suggesting that he relied on FTX's former legal team in allowing some actions that later led to the implosion and bankruptcy of the cryptocurrency exchange. Lawyers for the disgraced FTX chief also said he would cite his understanding of common industry practices, as well as his intention to comply with Bahamian authorities. Bankman-Fried faces seven criminal counts, including wire fraud, securities fraud and money laundering, that could land him in prison for more than 100 years if he is convicted at his trial in Manhattan federal court. Bankman-Fried, the son of two Stanford legal scholars, has pleaded not guilty in the case.

Will he or won't he?

The letter to Kaplan appears to cast doubt on whether the disgraced crypto billionaire will take the witness stand. Earlier Wednesday, one of Bankman-Fried's two chief trial attorneys, Mark Cohen, said in a conference call that his client would testify as would three other people. But in his letter Wednesday evening, Cohen wrote, "Accordingly, should Mr. Bankman-Fried decide to testify in his defense, he should be permitted to testify as to his understanding of industry practices regarding use of omnibus wallets to show his good faith and lack of criminal intent." The statement suggests Bankman-Fried might stand down on testifying, should the defense's requests be rejected.

Blaming ex-FTX lawyers

Kaplan previously ruled that Bankman-Fried's lawyers could not make a so-called advice of counsel argument in their opening remarks since it might risk prejudicing the jury. But Cohen in the new letter told Kaplan that although prosecutors "previously moved to preclude Mr. Bankman-Fried from offering evidence or argument regarding the involvement of attorneys," Bankman-Fried's "knowledge of the involvement of counsel in these matters" is "directly relevant" to "his state of mind and good faith at the time." Cohen cited specific examples where, at the guidance of FTX lawyers, Bankman-Fried adopted a policy which prosecutors argued shows his criminality. One example was company-wide policy on the encrypted messaging app Signal. Caroline Ellison, Bankman-Fried's ex-girlfriend who also ran crypto hedge fund Alameda Research, testified SBF directed FTX and Alameda employees to use the disappearing message setting on Signal. She said he told them to be very careful about what they put in writing because of potential legal exposure. Lesser-known FTX co-founder and ex-chief technology officer Gary Wang, as well as senior FTX developer Adam Yedidia, also testified to the directive that Signal communications be set to auto-delete. The government similarly asserted in its opening argument before the jury that the 30-day auto-deletion policy on Signal was because Bankman-Fried "didn't want a paper trail for his crimes." But Cohen wrote that Bankman-Fried's understanding was that these auto-deletion policies were "instituted under the guidances of lawyers." In another example, Cohen pointed to the billions of dollars worth of FTX customer deposits that went directly into a bank account controlled by Alameda. Prosecutors say customer cash was shuttled to Alameda via two channels: users depositing cash directly into accounts held by Alameda and through a secret backdoor that was baked into FTX's code. But attorneys for Bankman-Fried allege that SBF's "understanding as to the involvement of counsel in the formation" of these accounts and in the payment arrangement established between FTX and Alameda would be "directly relevant" to the defendant's "good faith belief that there was nothing improper about using Alameda-controlled entities to accept FTX customer deposits." In these and other examples involving the guidance of former FTX counsel, defense attorneys for Bankman-Fried return to the same rationale that the ex-FTX chief was acting in good faith and not with the criminal intent alleged by the government.

Blaming the Bahamian authorities

Wang has testified that last Nov. 12, after FTX declared bankruptcy, Bankman-Fried asked that Wang drive with him to the Bahamas Securities Commission for a meeting. On the drive, Bankman-Fried told Wang to transfer assets to Bahamian liquidators because he believed they would allow him to maintain control of the company. Wang said he was not in the meeting with the securities authority, though Bankman-Fried's dad was present. Wang said he returned to the U.S. and met with American prosecutors the next day. He faces up to 50 years in prison when he faces a judge for sentencing following this trial. He told jurors he signed a six-page cooperation agreement that requires him to meet with prosecutors, answer their questions truthfully and turn over evidence. Feds further allege that SBF prioritized paying certain creditors, including Bahamian authorities. In its pretrial motion, the government pointed to Bankman-Fried's "criminal intent," as well as the "false nature of his representations" that he wanted to "do right by customers." Cohen writes, "We anticipate eliciting testimony from Mr. Bankman-Fried regarding his good faith intentions on November 12, 2022 with respect to compliance with orders by Bahamian authorities to transfer assets from FTX to the Securities Commission of The Bahamas over the objections of FTX's in-house counsel and U.S. bankruptcy counsel." "Such testimony would require Mr. Bankman-Fried to discuss his belief that the Bahamian authorities were acting in the best interests of FTX customers, whereas FTX's in-house counsel and outside bankruptcy counsel in the United States had conflicts of interest," the letter continues.

Blaming the status quo in crypto

Bankman-Fried's understanding of commonly accepted industry practices may also figure prominently in his testimony. In the crypto vernacular, an omnibus account is where the digital assets of multiple users are held collectively in a single account. Cryptocurrency exchanges and others in the industry typically use this type of collective storage strategy into order to slash costs and streamline the workflow. In the case of FTX, the commingling of customer and company assets has become a major point of contention between the government and the defense. Prosecutors argued that FTX's "use of omnibus wallets is relevant to this case," the letter said. "For example, the Government elicited testimony from Mr. Sun that he did not believe that FTX customer deposits could permissibly be commingled with other funds of the business ... and that FTX utilized an omnibus wallet for all customer digital assets," the document continues, referring to FTX's former general counsel, Can Sun. "We respectfully submit that Mr. Bankman-Fried's knowledge of industry practices regarding the use of omnibus wallets is relevant to his good faith belief that his conduct was permissible," the letter added. "Mr. Bankman-Fried's understanding of whether FTX's actions were consistent with the crypto industry practices with regard to use of omnibus wallets is probative of his good faith belief that FTX's (and his own) actions were proper."
Shares of Siemens Energy tumbled 35% on Thursday after the company sought guarantees from the German government.

The wind power giant made headlines earlier this year, when it scrapped its profit forecast, citing a "substantial increase in failure rates of wind turbine components" at its wind division Siemens Gamesa.

The company had also warned that major setbacks at Siemens Gamesa could drag on for years.

"The strong growth in order intake, particularly in the former Gas and Power business areas, leads to a rising need of guarantees for long-term projects," the company said in a statement.

"Considering this requirement, the Executive Board is evaluating various measures to strengthen the balance sheet of Siemens Energy and is in preliminary talks with different stakeholders, including banking partners and the German government, to ensure access to an increasing volume of guarantees necessary to facilitate the anticipated strong growth," it added.

German business news weekly WirtschaftsWoche reported Thursday that Siemens Energy was seeking up to 15 billion euros ($15.8 billion) in guarantees. Siemens Energy was not immediately available to comment on the reported figure when contacted by CNBC.

The company, which did not comment further on the financial details of a targeted package, said its financial results for the fiscal year 2023 were expected to be fully in line with its guidance.

Siemens Energy is set to report its fiscal fourth-quarter results on Nov. 15. The company on Thursday said it has yet to decide its annual budget for 2024.

"The wind business Siemens Gamesa is working through the quality issues and is addressing the offshore ramp up challenges as announced in the third quarter communication for fiscal year 2023," Siemens Energy said.

The stock fell to fell to the bottom of the pan-European Stoxx 600 index as Thursday's selloff deepened.

Shares of the firm are down 60% year-to-date.
watch now

Standard Chartered shares slid Thursday as the bank's big bet on China hit a stumbling block, leading to significant losses in the country. Shares of the Asia-focused bank tanked as much as 17% in early deals in London, sparking a temporary halt in trade. The London-listed stock later closed 12% lower. The U.K.-headquartered bank reported pre-tax profit of $633 million for the third quarter  a 54% drop from the same period last year. The result was hit by the bank slashing the value of its investment in China Bohai Bank by $697 million. Standard Chartered also announced a credit impairment charge of $294 million  up $62 million on the year  including a $186 million charge relating to the China commercial real estate sector.

Stock Chart Icon Stock chart icon Standard Chartered shares

Standard Bank Chief Financial Officer Andy Halford on Thursday told CNBC's "Squawk Box Europe" that the "overall performance of the bank is very strong," despite the China news. Halford noted that China's commercial real estate sector "clearly has been problematic," but said that GDP in the country is forecast to bounce back around 5% within the next two to three years. "What we're seeing is probably a slower recovery post-Covid than in some countries. But it's a huge population to mobilize after such a big event," Halford said. "Most countries would be more than happy to have that kind of growth level," Halford said. "So we are very, very much of the view that this is a period that we need to go through. We'll stick with it [and] as the economy gets going, then that should be good with us and should be good for others." China's economic recovery has broadly disappointed since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, although its third-quarter growth came in stronger than expected, boosting hopes that things could be about to turn around.

'A blessing and a curse'
Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, U.S., October 25, 2023. Jeenah Moon | Reuters

Former President Donald Trump on Thursday railed against the judge who will deliver verdicts in his $250 million New York fraud trial, one day after storming out of the courtroom in the middle of witness testimony. Trump's fusillade on Truth Social followed a dramatic trial day in which Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Arthur Engoron put Trump on the witness stand, fined him $10,000 for violating his gag order and shot down a request for a sweeping verdict in his favor. The latest attacks show Trump, a prolific social media user who is running for president again in the 2024 election, turning to the court of public opinion to fight his mounting legal challenges. But his efforts are constrained by gag orders in two separate cases, including special counsel Jack Smith's federal case charging Trump with conspiring to subvert his loss to President Joe Biden in the 2020 presidential election. In that case, Trump is prohibited from publicly targeting Smith or potential witnesses, both of whom he has frequently referenced online and on the campaign trail. When those restrictions were temporarily paused last week, Trump fired off attacks against both the special counsel and his former White House chief of staff, Mark Meadows, a witness in Smith's case. In the New York civil fraud case, meanwhile, Engoron has already ruled twice that Trump violated his narrow gag order, which merely bars him from attacking the judge's staff.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is questioned by Judge Arthur F. Engoron before being fined $10,000 for violating a gag order for a second time, during the Trump Organization civil fraud trial in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, U.S., October 25, 2023 in this courtroom sketch. Jane Rosenberg | Reuters

Upon finding that Trump's testimony rang "hollow and untrue," Engoron has now fined him a total of $15,000. The judge has warned Trump that additional violations will yield much more severe sanctions  including possible imprisonment. With his targets narrowing, Trump's attacks appear to be intensifying. In at least four lengthy social media posts on Thursday, Trump ripped Engoron as a "tyrannical and unhinged" and "fully biased Trump Hater" who "should be ashamed of himself" for his handling of the case. "HE HAS GONE CRAZY IN HIS HATRED OF 'TRUMP,'" wrote the former president, who also railed against New York Attorney General Letitia James, his ex-attorney Michael Cohen and a New York Times reporter. Trump's 2024 presidential campaign, meanwhile, sought to capitalize on the case by criticizing it in multiple fundraising pleas as a "sham trial" led by a "Democrat judge" who "continues to harass" Trump. Engoron has already found Trump and other defendants liable for fraudulently inflating the values of real estate properties and key assets on years of financial statements. James, who brought the case, accuses Trump, his two adult sons, the Trump Organization and top executives of falsifying those asset values for a host of financial perks, including tax benefits and more favorable loan terms. The trial, which is scheduled to last until late December, will resolve six other claims in James' lawsuit. Engoron himself will deliver verdicts in the trial, which is being conducted without a jury  a fact Trump frequently protests on social media and at the courthouse.

"He is a judge that found me GUILTY before the trial even started," Trump said of Engoron in his social media screed Thursday. The posts also called Engoron a "Radical Left Judge" and claimed that he is ignoring a prior appeals court ruling "overturning" his decisions. A New York appeals court panel last month had cleared the trial to begin, denying Trump's request to delay it. Engoron had imposed a narrow gag order on Trump on the second day of the trial, after Trump sent a Truth Social post attacking the judge's law clerk, Allison Greenfield, who sits next to him in court. About two weeks later, the judge found that Trump violated that gag order by failing to remove the post from his campaign website. Engoron fined Trump $5,000 in that instance and warned him that future violations would yield more severe sanctions, potentially including imprisonment. During a break in the trial Wednesday, Trump complained to reporters outside the courtroom, "This judge is a very partisan judge with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside him, perhaps even more partisan than he is."

Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, October 25, 2023. Jeenah Moon | Reuters
"In the most unlikely but extreme cases, there is even the risk that humanity could lose control of AI completely through the kind of AI sometimes referred to as super intelligence," Sunak said.

The prime minister said that AI could make it easier to build chemical or biological weapons and that criminals could exploit the technology.

Sunak said in a speech that AI "will bring a transformation as far reaching as the industrial revolution, the coming of electricity, or the birth of the internet"  while adding that there are risks attached to that proposition.

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Thursday warned of the risks of artificial intelligence, ahead of a summit in which the U.K. hopes to take a global role in shaping how safety around the technology is designed.

Sunak's speech came as the British government gears up to host the AI Safety Summit next week. The event aims to bring together countries and companies to discuss the risks around AI. It will take place in Bletchley Park  the home of the codebreakers who cracked the code that ended World War II.

On Wednesday, the U.K. government released a report called "Capabilities and risks from frontier AI," in which it explains frontier AI as "highly capable general-purpose AI models that can perform a wide variety of tasks and match or exceed the capabilities present in today's most advanced models."

This definition includes some of the large language models that underpin applications such as OpenAI's ChatGPT and Google's Bard chatbot.

Sunak announced that the U.K. will set up the world's first AI safety institute to evaluate and test new types of AI in order understand the risks.

At the AI Safety Summit next week, Sunak said he will propose to set up a "truly global expert panel nominated by the countries and organizations attending to publish a state of AI science report."

The U.S. and China are broadly seen as the two leaders in AI, serving as home to some of the world's leading companies in the space. The U.K. has some notable AI firms, such as Alphabet-owned DeepMind, as well as strong tech-geared universities. But Britain is seen as a distant third contender, behind China and the U.S.

Britain is trying to position itself as a leader in the area of AI safety and is trying to lead the charge to police the technology.

Sunak said China has been invited to the summit next week.

"Now, I know there are some who will say that [China] should have been excluded. But there can be no serious strategy for AI without at least trying to engage all of the world's leading AI powers," Sunak said.

China and the U.S. has been in engaged in a battle for technology supremacy, with Washington looking to restrict Beijing's access to key technologies related to AI. Meanwhile, China has been introducing a slew of regulations around AI over the past year and a half, as Beijing looks to keep a close watch on the development of the technology.
This story is part of CNBC Make It's Millennial Money series, which details how people around the world earn, spend and save their money. There are a lot of misconceptions about living in Alaska, and Trevor Barrett has heard them all. People ask him: Do you live in an igloo? Do you have electricity? What was the first time you saw grass? What's it like to never see the sun? (That one "is a little bit accurate in winter," he says.) "Most of them are complete misconceptions," Trevor, 35, tells CNBC Make It. "Alaska does have some very strong winters, but it also has very pleasant summers. And it's one of the biggest reasons people fall in love with Alaska." Trevor is a lifelong Alaskan and lives in Haines, a town of 2,000 people in the southeastern tip of the state bordering British Columbia, and a roughly 16-hour drive to Alaska's biggest city, Anchorage. Trevor has gotten other people to fall in love with his home state, too. He met his wife, Larissa, while on a work trip in Connecticut, where she's from. "Then after a while, I broke the news that I was from Alaska and I was probably going to be moving back. And she loved the idea," Trevor says. "We got married and then we moved over and it didn't take long for her to absolutely fall in love with it." It's the perfect backdrop for their outdoorsy life, their young family and Trevor's growing career as a bladesmith running his own business. Last year, the Barretts lived on $52,000, including Larissa's earnings as a graphic designer for the local newspaper. Here's how they make it work.

Living in Alaska

One of the biggest challenges of living in Alaska is traveling, especially in and out of Haines, which can require a boat or a plane. The cold, dark winters can also be brutal. But over time, Trevor says, "You learn to appreciate winter even more so. One of the best things about living in Alaska is the quiet life, the privacy and the summers."

One of the best things about living in Alaska is the quiet life, the privacy and the summers. Trevor Barrett

Trevor is happy to share that love with Larissa; their 10-month-old son, Samuel; and their husky, Nika. The Barretts spend most of their free time outside going to the beach, hiking nearby mountains and canoeing. Trevor is eager to raise his son to love the Alaska lifestyle too. "I was raised with hunting and fishing and hiking and camping and all the specific and unique Alaska things," he says. "I always had a stick in my hand and mud in my hair as I was playing in the woods as a child." While Trevor grew up in Kenai (a costal town southwest of Anchorage), he believes "Haines is a really good place to raise children."

How they spend their money

Here's how the Barretts spent their money in July 2023:

Zoom In Icon Arrows pointing outwards Elham Ataeiazar | CNBC Make It

Housing and utilities: $1,490 to rent a two-bedroom, one-bathroom house with a work shed on one acre of property

$1,490 to rent a two-bedroom, one-bathroom house with a work shed on one acre of property Food: $650

$650 Debt repayment: $610 toward two credit cards and a personal loan

$610 toward two credit cards and a personal loan Discretionary: $584 on things like online shopping for home goods, which is crucial in a remote location like Haines

$584 on things like online shopping for home goods, which is crucial in a remote location like Haines Gas: $138

$138 Car insurance: $137 for two vehicles

$137 for two vehicles Phone: $135 for two phone lines

$135 for two phone lines Subscriptions: $34 for Netflix and YouTube

$34 for Netflix and YouTube Investments: $26 Another big, and expensive, barrier to living in rural Alaska is that most supplies are barged in. In Haines, fresh produce arrives on Tuesdays, "and you've got to act fast if you want to get the freshest stuff," Trevor says. Barges can also be canceled during bad weather, so it's crucial to stock up and be prepared at all times. Food and fuel prices are also higher than elsewhere in the U.S.: Milk can cost up to $10 a gallon, and gas hovers around $6 a gallon.

Trevor Barrett with his wife, Larissa, and son, Samuel. Alex Stock for CNBC Make It

It's easy to drive the 7 minutes across town for any basic goods, Trevor says. But for anything else, you have to go far. "A few times a year, we take either planes or the ferry system down to Juneau, Alaska. Or we'll drive all the way to Anchorage, which is 16 hours," Trevor says. There, the family gets their car maintained and stocks up on supplies you can't get in Haines: clothes, bulk items, business supplies, furniture. "You start making a list at the beginning of the year of the things that you're running out of," Trevor says.

Turning a hobby into an accidental career

Trevor works as a bladesmith and runs his own business, Barrett Knives. His interest in making blades comes from a self-described nerdy place: "The Lord of the Rings" franchise. He enjoyed the books as a kid and became obsessed with the movies as a teen. Then, in 2015, Trevor began looking up how to forge blades on YouTube and Google. He gathered some basic materials  an old brake drum, a blow dryer, some pipes and charcoal  and got to work.

Trevor Barrett with a replication of Anduril from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." Alex Stock for CNBC Make It

"One of my biggest instructors was trial and error. I just made mistake after mistake after mistake, and eventually I was able to learn how to make a semi-functional blade," he says. "As I was teaching myself, I really started to fall in love with it." Trevor spent every free moment practicing when he wasn't working odd jobs as a first-aid instructor, an auto mechanic or doing construction. After a while, Trevor started posting his work on Instagram for friends and family. One friend asked how much he was selling his blades for. "That was new to me because I never thought I was going to sell it," Trevor says. He put a number out there: $50. His friend took the offer. "Then it just took off from there." By early 2020, he to quit his day jobs altogether and went in on Barrett Knives full-time.

A family business

Barrett Knives sells a variety of blades, including hunting blades, kitchen blades, axes and swords. Basic blades, which can take about a day to make, start around $500, while intricate swords that require weeks of work sell for up to $12,000, Trevor says. Trevor spends about 60 to 70 hours per week on the business between production and social media. Working for himself means he can be flexible with his hours and spend more time with Larissa, Samuel and Nika.

Basic blades start at around $500, while intricate swords that require weeks of work sell for up to $12,000, Trevor says. Alex Stock for CNBC Make It

It was daunting to completely "abandon a regular paycheck," Trevor says. "But it really did seem like the right thing to do for our family." "I was able to pursue something that I really was passionate about," he adds. "Despite all of the stress and the financial hardship that could potentially come from leaping into a non-essential business like Barrett Knives, it turned out to be quite the blessing. I don't think I would ever go back or change anything, even though it took a lot of legwork in order to make it happen." Between August 2022 and July 2023, Barrett Knives netted roughly $37,000 in income. Larissa continued to work for the local newspaper for a while, and earlier this year left that job following the birth of Samuel. She now handles tasks like managing Barrett Knives' finances and marketing. Trevor says working alongside Larissa is "one of the best things that I've ever experienced. We work very well as a team and it makes it super easy. If anything, being able to work together like that just builds our relationship even more."

Leaving a legacy

Trevor admits he's not the best with money, but he learns from Larissa and the needs of their growing family. "Making about $52,000 a year, it is possible to live [in Haines] comfortably, but you need to make sure that you live simply and you're smart with your money," he says. The family has just under $21,000 in debt across two credit cards and a personal loan. Paying off debt and saving have been more difficult since launching the business, Larissa says. The Barretts save when they can for small trips in the winter and summer, and they hope to buy a home one day where they can keep their work site nearby.

Trevor Barrett and his family live in Haines, Alaska. Alex Stock for CNBC Make It
Renault is planning to launch eight new models by 2027. This is part of a global product offensive, backed by an investment of 3 billion. The aim is to double the net revenue per unit sold outside Europe in 2027, compared to 2019.

Fabrice Cambolive, CEO of Renault brand, in a company statement, said, As our product renewal is bearing fruit in Europe, we are now going to make the brand more global and more profitable. Thus, Renault is now going on the offensive outside Europe with eight new vehicle launches between now and 2027, based on a reduced number of platforms, shared across regions and thereby enhancing our synergies.

Two New Platforms

Renault has commissioned two new platforms as part of this plan. The first is a new modular platform, flexible and capable of using multiple powertrains and power sources. It will be dedicated to Latin America, North Africa, Turkey and India. The second platform, Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), will be dedicated to the more premium D and E segments. This will be made in partnership with Chinese car major, Geely.

First Model: Kardian

The Kardian is the first of the eight models that will enter the markets of Latin America and Morocco next year. India will likely get this later. Renault plans to introduce hybrid powertrains for the future line-up, alongside electric models. It aims to sell one out of three cars with electric or hybrid versions outside Europe by 2027.

Renault Kardian, a compact urban B-segment vehicle Renault Kardian, a compact urban B-segment vehicle

New Renault Group Platform

The smaller, new Renault Group modular platform will be assembled in Latin America, Turkey, Morocco and India. It allows for a large variety of models with lengths between 4 and 5 metres with wheelbase from 2.6 to 3 metres. This new platform can accommodate everything from ICE, flex-fuel (E100), LPG, mild-hybrid advanced (48V) and full hybrid.

Bruno Vanel, VP of Renault Brand, Product Performance, said, The proper architecture of this new Renault Group modular platform is extremely flexible and competitive. It will enable us to offer our customers, based all around the world, vehicles offering much value, efficiency and relevant technologies.

CMA Platform for High-End Segment

The other CMA  Compact Modular Architecture  platform is dedicated to the high-end segment in South Korea. These will mostly use strong hybrid powertrains and will be designed by the engineering centre in Seoul and built at the plant in Busan.

Niagara Concept

The Niagara Concept gives a glimpse into the style of the future Renault range to be built on the new Renault Group modular platform. Its powertrain is the E-Tech Hybrid 4WD technology with a mild hybrid advanced (48V) powerplant at the front and an additional electric motor at the rear.

Renault Niagara Concept Renault Niagara Concept

The Niagara Concept heralds the next international models that Renault will launch by 2027. Gilles Vidal, VP of Renault Design, said, Niagara Concept embodies the style of the future international line-up of the Renault brand.

Next-gen Duster to be unveiled soon

The next-generation Renault Duster is likely to be unveiled by Dacia, Renaults sister brand, in Portugal on November 29. The new model, based on the CMF-B platform, will offer a range of petrol engines including a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol unit, a 1.2-litre petrol hybrid, and a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol flex-fuel engine. The next-gen Duster is anticipated to launch in India by 2025.
The BJP took out "tiranga rallies" on Thursday to mark the day of Jammu and Kashmir's accession to India in 1947. Jammu and Kashmir BJP president Ravinder Raina, who led a "tiranga rally" here, said the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir are also proud citizens of India and will one day celebrate freedom after their liberation from Pakistan.

The BJP's youth wing BJYM organised a run to mark "Accession Day" and the women wing took out another rally. At the rally led by Raina, hundreds of people carrying the national tricolour (tiranga) chanted slogans of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai", "Vande Mataram" and "Maharaja Hari Singh Ki Jai".

BJYM activists also paid floral tribute at a statue of Hari Singh. On October 26 in 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh signed the instrument of accession by which Jammu and Kashmir became a part of India.

Raina said October 26 is a very important day for Jammu and Kashmir as well as India. It is being celebrated with enthusiasm across Jammu and Kashmir. "Tiranga rallies are being taken out everywhere in J-K. It is as important for us as August 15 and January 26," he said. He said that some parts of Jammu and Kashmir are still under the illegal occupation of Pakistan and China and the day is not far when "we will hoist the tricolour there as well".

"PoK areas are ours. The people of that area are ours. They are citizens of J-K. They are citizens of India. They are under occupation. They will shun chains of bondage of Pakistan and will be liberated today or tomorrow. They will celebrate this day and freedom of India with us," he said.
Taiwans sonic landscape pulses with the rhythms of its history and culture, from the eclectic, nearly autobiographical soundtracks of Edward Yangs films to Sunset Rollercoasters riotous jazzy synthpop performances. This time around, the recent World Music Festival in Taiwan offered an insightful perspective of what the regions music represents in the world at large. Comprising three stages, the festival attracted over 12,000 attendees this year.

The term world music has always been rather ambiguous. Often yielding to a Western perspective, lately, theres been a shift of it told from a local perspective where a music festival connects with other musical cultures at large. If anything, world music should no longer have to qualify under a static, textbook definition set by a certain culture. Aptly, world music now considers global tides of exchange and cross-cultural pollination.

J-Pop and Taiwanese indigenous sensibilities come together in Hitoto Yo, Sangpuy, and Tzu-lung Hungs international co-production that closed the festivals third day. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

Many artists on the World Music Festival line-up, comprising over 200 musicians and representing a total of 35 countries, were adept at navigating how cultures today are kaleidoscopic. Sauljaljuis ardent singing intertwined with her Chinese lute (called Yueqin), evoking the Paiwan tribes interconnectedness with rivers. Meanwhile, Outlet Drifts swaggering psychedelic surf rock owed its fierce edge to their Amis vocal harmonies. People in the audience interlocked hands as they danced to Biung Wangs songs, blending his native Bunkum language and Mandarin. Tsng-kha-langs funereal rock reflected on the lingering ghosts of Taiwans martial law through localized sensibilities of mainland Chinese music. They were among the Taiwanese groups who radiated immense pride in sharing their roots in a contemporary way.

Migrant worker punk band Southern Riot raises a Bahasa statement that reads: Buruh bukan robot. Buruh juga manusia. [Workers are not robots. Workers are people.] Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

The acts also touched upon pressing issues in Taiwan and the world at large. Southern Riot, comprised of Indonesian members based in Taiwan, used their stage as a megaphone for migrant workers. One of their songs momentarily turned down their feedback-laden punk rock to sing a lament naming actual migrant workers suffering depression. Balaklava Blues, who had members on the frontlines of the war in Ukraine, expressed the strife of war through percussively dark electronic music and Ukrainian polyphony. To really encompass the music of the world, one needs to also hear the struggles along with the triumphs.

Chung-Ching Chens set had her playing the traditional lute to electronic elements as Bio swirled paint and colored oil on an overhead projector pointed at a wide screen. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

The indoor stages also held some interesting experiments in presentation, like Cicadas collaboration with Aroma Disco, where scents wafted throughout the hall to complement minimal orchestral compositions. On a separate day, Chung-Ching Chens set had her playing the traditional lute to electronic elements as Bio swirled paint and colored oil on an overhead projector pointed at a wide screen.

Another highlight was Ak Dan Gwang Chil (ADG7) and their wildly imaginative take on Korean traditional instruments and shamanic singing. It was irresistibly danceable, and its clear why theyve made appearances at Glastonbury, KEXP, and Tiny Desk. Joanna Wang, who previously went TikTok viral with her elaborate orchestral rendition of Alice in Wonderland, played with a jazz ensemble as the sun set on the last day. Despite the language barriers, Taiwanese audiences were quite receptive to the music on its own terms.

The Trade Fair brought together different initiatives and players in Taiwans musical ecology. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

The trade fair, a first for the festival, provided a respite from walking in between stages under the autumn sun. There were booths showcasing different initiatives in the Taiwan region like the hyperdance rave outfit The Cave, the trilingual media platform Taiwan Beats, regional music curators and promoters NPCC, indie diplomats ID-TW Pop Bureau, and more. Aside from undeniably tasteful graphic design on display, the exhibitors gave a glimpse into the different facets of Taiwans musical ecology, from niche festivals to underground movements.

One of the most remarkable qualities of its four-day run was the audience that the Taipei Music Center welcomed. There were plenty of families enjoying the spacious festival grounds and other attractions. Sunday afternoon had many senior citizens in wheelchairs and their caregivers bobbing their heads to Pigheadskins rock and roll antics. Washrooms were designated for all genders, and special ones even had provisions for children and individuals with wheelchairs or other mobility-related implements. A lot of events for music are held in places that exclude so many people willing to hear music, which is why venues that take accessibility into consideration can certainly broaden audiences.

Biung Wang alights from the main stage to sing amongst people doing the Taiwanese traditional circle dance. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

The WMF is an example of how showcase programs can also bring promising artists opportunities to perform at other festivals in the bigger scheme of music export. At the conference sessions of the festival, discussions were held with representatives of other platforms like the WOMAD Chile Festival, Italian World Beat in Naples, Seoul Music Week, Ulsan Jazz Festival, and the Colors of Ostrava in the Czech Republic. The Rest is Noise Philippines was also in attendance. For industry people, the best way to scout for artists is to see them live in their element.

The festivals showcase program, which accepts applications from all over the world, looks forward to Filipino musicians for next years edition. WMFs Head of Programme, Peiti Huang, says: As a program director, I often enjoy personally exploring new music and performances. Therefore, in my music festival, showcasing has become a crucial aspect. We encourage talented groups from various countries to apply, and we look forward to seeing more Filipino groups participate!

Sauljaljuis ardent singing intertwined with her Chinese lute Yueqin powerfully evoked the Paiwan tribes interconnectedness with rivers. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

Of course, the underlying current here is substantial institutional support for artists. The conference sparked discussions about how public and private funding is vital in supporting these networks of music export, which concerns the music industry as a whole. The caveat for showcases is that in many cases, bands pay out of pocket to be present. A few bands at WMF this year were there thanks to funding from their respective countries. Performing at a showcase is an opportunity to meet a new audience, like giving a calling card of sorts, which may lead to more opportunities in the future.

Balaklava Blues sing about humanity amidst war through Ukranian polyphony, as visuals provide translations of their lyrics. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

There are so many Filipino acts that deserve to bask in the spotlight on platforms such as these. Talahib Peoples Musics appearance at WMF last year also left a good impression on the festivals regulars. A few days after this festival, post-rock polyglot Gabba represented the country in SXSW Sydney. Ena Mori was the only Filipino act at SXSWs all-Asian music festival in Texas earlier this year. Munimuni is playing at the upcoming LUCfest in Taiwan, which SOS played in 2019. The latter played alongside The Itchyworms at Tokyo Beyond Festival in 2022. Also, the AXEAN festival in Singapore has hosted around five Filipino bands per year since 2020. Foreign audiences are eager to know more about the Philippines, and showcases are a significant avenue for our country to cultivate a reputation as a hotspot of music.

Joanna Wangs charming genre-spanning pop songs crossed language barriers. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

Weve seen how music has been able to make a countrys presence known on an international stage, whether its K-Pop, musica popular brasileira, dangdut, or budots. Thats the beauty of music, when it takes pride in what makes it what it is: its very instrumentation, its narratives, and how it makes up the very fabric of how people connect to each other. Affirming its own cultural specificities enables it to transcend barriers of language and geography.

Over 12,000 flocked to the Taipei Music Center during the 2023 World Music Festivals four-day run. Photo courtesy of 2023 WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL TAIWAN

The WMF shows the possibilities of what could happen when the Philippines bolsters its support of our local musicians, who have a lot to contribute to the global perspective of not just world music, but music in general. Its a worthwhile endeavor for musicians, public and private sponsors, and the local music industry as a whole. Thats also an opportunity that Filipinos interested in performing at or going to the next WMF and other festivals around the world can look forward to.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Days after the collisions in the West Philippine Sea, United States President Joe Biden reasserted his country's "ironclad" defense commitment to the Philippines, as US lawmakers welcomed plans to increase joint patrols in the contested waters.

"I want to be clear, I want to be very clear: The United States' defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad," the US chief executive said in a press conference on Thursday.

"Any attack on the Filipino aircraft, vessels, or armed forces will invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the Philippines," he added.

Last weekend, authorities said Chinese ships collided with Filipino vessels conducting a resupply mission to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.

Manila's MDT with Washington, which was signed in 1951, provides that both countries must come to each other's defense in the event of an external party attack on one or the other.

According to authorities in Palawan, the PCG vessel suffered a "dent" while the AFP-contracted resupply boat had a broken back post due to the collisions.

Meanwhile, US House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, Ranking Member Gregory Meeks, Subcommittee on the Indo-Pacific Chairwoman Young Kim, and Ranking Member Ami Bera condemned the Chinese Coast Guard's unlawful actions.

"We condemn Beijing's maritime intimidation and welcome the Biden administration's announcement to increase joint patrols with the Philippines and other partners in the South China Sea and its reaffirmation to uphold its commitment under the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty," the US lawmakers said.

Last month, the US stated plans to conduct more multilateral patrols with the Philippines and other allied countries in the South China Sea to enhance maritime defense.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is looking into reports two Filipinos are among the hostages being held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

"Not 100 percent verified but we are assuming that they are, as there is no sign of them in Israel. We are talking to various governments to seek their assistance," DFA Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega told CNN Philippines on Thursday.

A Reuters report said over half of the estimated 220 hostages had foreign passports from 25 countries, including the Philippines.

During a virtual briefing on Wednesday, De Vega said they could not confirm whether there were any Filipino hostages.

"Israel believes that one of them, a male, is likely a hostage. They haven't shown us the evidence. The wife of the supposed hostage has said from the beginning that she saw her husband taken on video," he said.

Four Filipinos have died in the war between Israel and Hamas militants, while two others remain unaccounted for.

"That's not ideal, but then again you notice that the numbers four and two have been maintained, so we can look at it as some sort of positive development that the numbers are not rising," De Vega said.

RELATED: 113 Filipinos in Lebanon want to come home
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) on Thursday said it is ready to provide at least P50,000 in cash assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) repatriated due to the continuing Isarel-Hamas conflict.

The budget will be sourced from the 700 million that remains out of DWM's 1.2 billion Agarang Kalinga at Saklolo para sa mga OFWs na Nangangailangan (AKSYON) fund, according to DMW Officer-in-Charge Hans Cacdac.

"It is essentially a fund for legal, medical, and humanitarian assistance. Iyan pong three-fold assistance program na 'yan ay itinalaga ni Secretary Toots Ople," Cacdac said during a House committee hearing.

Cacdac said since April, P400 million has already been distributed to 5,525 repatriated OFWs including those who came from earthquake-hit Turkey and the violence-stricken Sudan.

He added that the department has a "catch-up plan" to use the remaining fund from AKSYON this year.

In a separate statement on Thursday, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said a total of 59 OFWs were already repatriated in batches from Oct. 16 to 23.

The PCO said while waiting for their repatriation, OFWs are each provided $200 financial assistance.

Upon arrival in Manila, they will each receive P50,000 from DMW, P50,000 from OWWA, care kits and food packs from the National Reintegration Center for OFWs, and P10,000 financial assistance vouchers from DSWD and TESDA.

During the same House hearing, Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Director Jocelyn Hapal explained the benefits and assistance given to OFWs returning from Israel.

"Yung mga umuwi from Israel (those returning from Israel), being OWWA members, they are entitled to reintegration programs and loan program, " she explained.

RELATED: First batch of 170 OFWs in Lebanon to be repatriated

CNN Philippines correspondent Xianne Arcangel contributed to this story.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26) - Some 170 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) were listed in the first batch to be repatriated from Lebanon, Department of Migrant Workers Officer-in-Charge Hans Cacdac said on Thursday.

"Sa Lebanon po, napi-pinto na rin ang first batch ng repatriation, meron ng mga 170 na nagpatala. Like Israel, may kaunting hamon sa flight bookings but rest assured mayroon na pong napipinto sa first batch," Cadac said during the House committee on overseas workers affairs on Thursday.

[Translation: For Lebanon, we are preparing for the first batch of repatriation, we already have around 170 listed. Like in Israel, we are also experiencing difficulty in booking flights but rest assured the first batch is being prepared.]

Amid the rising tension between Israel and the Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Tuesday advised Filipinos living near the southern border of Lebanon to flee the area.

READ: 109 Filipinos seek repatriation from Lebanon  DFA

Meanwhile, 746 families called on the DMW helpline asking for assistance to find relatives as the Israel-Hamas war rages.

Cacdac said the relatives of 744 families have been accounted for or assisted, while search is ongoing for the remaining two.

He added DMW is seeking job opportunities for the two siblings of an OFW killed in the war.

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) and the DMW said that there will be benefit and assistance programs for the returning OFWs.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Former Department of Health (DOH) chief and now Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin said no public funds were realigned for the implementation of the controversial dengue immunization program in public schools during the Aquino administration.

The Ombudsman has filed graft and technical malversation charges against Garin and four others. They were allegedly responsible for the release of 3.57 billion for the purchase of Dengvaxia vaccines despite it not being part of the expanded program for immunization.

Speaking to CNN Philippines The Source on Thursday, Garin denied that realignment was done, saying the budget for the vaccine rollout came from miscellaneous personnel benefits funds (MPBF) under the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

Internally in the Department of Health we did not have any realignment because the MPBF is a lump sum fund that comes from the Department of Budget and Management, she said, adding that such funds can be used to augment any program that needs additional allocation.

Garin also pointed out that in the DOH, the immunization program is a line item that covers all vaccines for children, pregnant women, senior citizens, and those that will be developed in a year. Specific vaccines are not listed in the budget to give the department flexibility during situations like an outbreak of a viral disease, she added.

Over 800,000 grade schoolers had already been vaccinated when pharmaceutical company Sanofi announced that Dengvaxia could cause severe dengue if the vaccinee had not been infected by the virus before immunization.

Garin said the issue of the dengue vaccine did not only affect the Philippines, but also other countries.

In this case it's very clear, dengue has no cure, dengue kills, the Philippines is the exporter of dengue throughout the whole world, mutations are constantly happening in the Philippines, she said.

Garin said it was supposed to be the countrys global responsibility to help solve this problem. Now, the Philippines has been a laughing stock because it is the only country that stopped the immunization program without scientific basis, she added.

Dapat matuldukan na ito [This should already stop], so the best venue that all of these will be discussed is in the courts, Garin said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26) The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) said airlines have back up plans to accommodate an expected average of 1.2 million travelers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) for the holidays next week.

Bryan Andersen Co, MIAA senior assistant general manager, said NAIA sees an average of 120,000 to 130,000 travelers per day from Oct. 27 until Nov. 6.

Since marami na ulit 'yung nagta-travel (a lot are traveling again), normal na ulit yung air travel (air travel is back to normal), there is just a slight increase of 8-10% on a daily basis for this 10-day period, Co said.

The 1.2 million is very manageable for NAIA for a 10-day period, he added.

The airport operator said the expected number of travelers will matche last year's Undas (All Saints Day, All Souls Day).

Co also said NAIA handled 140,000 to 150,000 passengers during travel surges pre-pandemic.

MIAA said it is expecting more outbound passengers from Friday to Sunday this week and more inbound travelers next weekend.

The airport operator also reassured the public that airlines, including Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia, have contingency plans for unforeseen events such as bad weather.

For the peak season, they (airlines) are actually investing in having spare aircrafts," Co said. "It means na kapag may na-disrupt or na-cancel na flight (if there is a canceled, disrupted flight), due to weather or operational reasons, meron silang (they have an) aircraft."

Theyve assured us that a percentage of their fleet will be dedicated for spare," he added. "Meaning walang naka-sched na flight sa mga aircraft na yun (It means these aircrafts have no scheduled flights) but just to act as a backup."

MIAA said airport terminals have also deployed enough personnel to man desks. It said it has coordinated with the Office for Transportation Security to beef up some protocols.

Manuel Gonzales, chief of the office of the assistant general manager for security and emergency services, said airport authorities held several drills last week in preparation for other security emergencies such as bomb threats or shooting.

We have already cascaded the security protocol that we will institute just in case meron instant hard emergency that will come up during this particular long holiday, Gonzales said.

The security chief said enough personnel have been deployed to manage the expected crowd for the holidays.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 23)  Malacanang has issued an order transferring the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP) from the Office of the President to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

Executive Order 45, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, transfers DAP to NEDA as an attached agency as part of government's rightsizing policy, the palace said Thursday.

Pursuant to the rightsizing policy of the national government, it is imperative to streamline and rationalize the functional relationships of agencies with complementary mandates to promote coordination, efficiency, and organizational coherence in the bureaucracy, the EO signed on Wednesday read.

The order added that a strong organizational link between the NEDA and DAP is necessary to bolster the academy's implementation of human resource development programs, research, data collection, and information services, as well as to ensure consistency of its research, education and training with the national governments socioeconomic agenda.

DAP, a government owned and controlled corporation, was created in 1973 by President Ferdinand E. Marcos, the father of the current president.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Twenty thousand personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard will be on alert for the upcoming holidays, securing ports as crowds head to the provinces for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections as well as All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day.

Coast Guard spokesperson Armand Balilo on Thursday said 10,000 more personnel are on standby in case additional forces will be needed.

"Ang instruction po ni Admiral Gavan sa lahat ng personnel ng Philippine Coast Guard ay maging visible sa lahat ng mga pantalan at iyong mga security forces na itatalaga natin sa barangay election ay dapat in place na," he said.

[Translation: Admiral Gavan's instruction to all personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard is to be visible at all ports and those security forces that we will assign in the barangay election must be in place.]

Balilo added they remain on alert with the number of passengers expected to increase.

The PCG is advising travelers to follow all safety guidelines and other regulations during their trip to avoid any inconvenience.

Balilo is also warning boat operators to follow sailing protocols, including not proceeding with the trip in case of bad weather.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Philippines and the United Kingdom on Thursday signed a treaty on the transfer of sentenced persons.

Justice Secretary Boying Remulla and UK Ambassador to the Philippines Laure Beaufils signed the treaty during a ceremony held at the Department of Justice (DOJ).

The treaty allows individuals sentenced in another country to opt to serve their sentences in their native country. This means, Filipinos convicted in the UK can now choose to serve their remaining sentences in the Philippines.

"The underlying rationale is that being closer to family, friends, and familiar culture can better facilitate the rehabilitation of the sentenced individuals," the DOJ said in a statement on Thursday.

The agency said the treaty on the transfer of sentenced persons complements the existing extradition treaty and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters treaty between the two countries.

"It's an option that we want to give them," Remulla explained. "Of course, ang magiging side remarks diyan ng maraming Pilipino ay mabuti na yung kulungan doon, maganda well puwedeng totoo yan pero still itong mga ganitong request kasi hindi mo hinihindian sapagkat it's part of diplomacy."

[Translation: It's an option that we want to give them. Of course, the side remarks from many Filipinos will be that the prisons there are better. That might be true, but you can't say no to these requests because it's part of diplomacy.]

Beaufils said this is the right thing to do.

The Philippines has a similar treaty with Spain, Thailand, and Hong Kong.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Philippine government will file an environmental case against China over the alleged massive coral harvesting in the West Philippine Sea early next year, according to Justice Secretary Boying Remulla.

Remulla on Thursday met with former Supreme Court justice and former Solicitor General Francis Jardeleza, international environmental law expert Antonio Oposa, and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) spokesperson for West Philippine Sea Commodore Jay Tarriela to discuss the potential case against China.

"We were encouraged to pursue what we think is a good case," Remulla said. "Kasi ang apektado naman nito hindi lang yung bansa natin, ang apektado dito is yung buong mundo. Yung sinisira nila na pinapanganakan ng isda, hindi na babalik. Eh kung diyan manggagaling ang gamot sana."

[Translation: We were encouraged to pursue what we think is a good case. Because we're not the only ones affected by this, it's the entire world. They are destroying the breeding ground of fish, and they won't return. What if there is medicine there?]

According to the DOJ, among the "significant evidence" presented during the meeting were China's "adverse impacts" on the West Philippine Sea, including the destruction of coral reefs and disruption of marine life in the region.

The justice secretary pointed out that there is plenty of evidence that can be used but they will gather more to build a strong case.

"To further strengthen the case, plans are in motion to dispatch PCG vessels to the WPS. The objective is to meticulously document the environmental damage attributable to the activities of the PRC (China)," the DOJ said in a separate statement.

In September, the PCG confirmed findings of damaged, harvested corals, as well as near total absence of marine life forms in Rozul Reef, also known as Iroquois Reef, and in Escoda Shoal, or the Sabina Shoal.

RELATED: Rozul Reef profitable for China, activities linked to reclamation  maritime law expert

'Sea of Asia'

During the meeting, there was a suggestion to use the term "Sea of Asia" instead of West Philippine Sea, which the Justice Department clarified is a "strategic decision" to make the case relevant to the international community.

According to the DOJ, the phrase underlines that the West Philippine Sea is a shared treasure for all of Asia and the rest of the world, regardless of territorial conflicts.

It pointed out that the suggestion is limited only to the case.

"This is in no way an indication of the Philippines diluting or weakening its territorial claims or stance," the DOJ said in a statement.

It explained the primary intention is to engage the international community "in a way that transcends territorial disputes."

"The spotlight here is not on the ongoing China vs. Philippines territorial dispute," the DOJ added. "Instead, we are choosing to focus on the more pressing issue at hand: the environmental degradation and destruction by China of the waters around Asia."

Remulla said the country's complaint would also include China's artificial islands.

CNN Philippines' digital producer Syrah Inocencio contributed to this story.
Tacloban City (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Authorities in Leyte confirmed an election-related violence, while verifying another shooting that may be related as well to next week's barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan polls.

Provincial police chief PCol Erwin Portillo said police listed 11 shooting incidents since the beginning of the poll period, but most of these were classified as personal grudges.

Police validated the first election-related violence in the killing of barangay kagawad Jenny dela Pena on Sept 7 in Brgy Tag-abaca, Leyte town.

Portillo said charges have been filed against the suspect.

Authorities are verifying another possible poll-related case in the shooting of a 19-year-old Sangguniang Kabataan candidate in Mataloto on Oct. 22.

The regional police office has sent more personnel to all five police stations in the third district made up of the towns of Calubian, Leyte, Villaba, Tabango, and San Isidro.

The Regional Joint Security Control Center has classified Villaba and Leyte towns as "areas of concern" because of a history of election-related incidents

More than 360 police personnel are manning checkpoints and polling precincts in the third district, while more than 260 others assist in maintaining peace and order and security. The army also deployed personnel to assist the police.
(CNN)  The Republican-led House elected Rep. Mike Johnson as the new House speaker on Wednesday  a major leadership change that comes three weeks after the historic ouster of Kevin McCarthy.

Johnson, a vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump and a key congressional figure in the failed efforts to overturn the 2020 election, will now take the reins of the bitterly divided House Republican majority and faces the looming threat of a government shutdown next month.

Johnsons elevation puts an end to the paralysis the House had been stuck in after McCarthy was pushed out by hardline conservatives  an unprecedented move that plunged the chamber into uncharted territory.

Republicans tried and failed three separate times to coalesce behind a new speaker nominee before ultimately uniting around Johnson, a conservative lawmaker who has so far had a relatively low profile on the national stage.

In a remarkable show of unity following weeks of fierce GOP infighting, the Louisiana Republican was elected with 220 votes and no Republican defections.

The new speaker will now face a litany of pressing issues. Government funding is set to expire on November 17, and the GOP-controlled House will need to work with the Democratic-led Senate to avert a shutdown, setting up an early leadership test for Johnson.

Lawmakers must also decide whether to send further aid to Ukraine as it fights a war against Russian aggression as well as aid to Israel in its war against Hamas. There is widespread bipartisan support for aid to Israel, but many House Republicans are opposed to sending additional aid to Ukraine.

Johnson, fresh off his victory on the House floor, said he will pursue an aggressive schedule in the weeks ahead and alluded to the chaos that had paralyzed the House and distracted from the GOP agenda.

Youre going to see an aggressive schedule in the days and weeks ahead. Youre gonna see Congress working as hard as its ever worked and we are going to deliver for the American people, he said.

Weve gone through a little bit of suffering. Weve gone through a little bit of character building, and you know what has produced more strength, more perseverance and a lot of hope, and thats what were about to deliver to the American people, he said.

Johnson was first elected to the House in 2016 and has previously served as vice chairman of the House Republican Conference. A Trump ally, he supported objections to Electoral College results when Congress met to certify Joe Bidens presidential win on January 6, 2021  the day a pro-Trump mob stormed the Capitol seeking to overturn the results of the election. He also lobbied fellow House Republicans to support a Texas lawsuit seeking to overturn the election.

A reporter was loudly booed by House GOP members for asking Johnson after he became the speaker-designate if he stands by his decision to support overturning the election.

New speaker takes over following weeks of chaos

The fight for the speakers gavel has opened new rifts among House Republicans and deepened old ones. Republicans rallied around Johnson in a display of unity, but it remains to be seen how long that will hold.

Johnson secured the nomination for the speakership late Tuesday evening in a vote that capped off a chaotic day that started with Republicans picking Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer to be their latest nominee only for him to drop out hours later after facing stiff resistance from the right flank of the conference and a rebuke from Trump.

After winning the party nomination, Emmer faced swift opposition from the right flank of his conference as well as a rebuke from Trump. In a post on Truth Social, Trump called Emmer a Globalist RINO, and said that voting for him would be a tragic mistake.

Emmer was the third Republican to win the GOP nomination only to then exit the race after failing to lock up the necessary votes to win the gavel, following Reps. Jim Jordan of Ohio and Steve Scalise also of Louisiana.

Jordan, who is known as Trump ally and a fierce conservative agitator, took his fight for the speakership to the House floor in a bid to put members on the record  but failed to secure the gavel in three separate rounds of voting that saw him lose more support with each ballot.

Some Republicans who opposed Jordan decried what they described as a pressure campaign against them by allies of the Ohio Republican. And several Republicans who opposed Jordans speakership bid said they experienced angry calls, menacing messages and even death threats since casting their votes. Jordan condemned the threats.

Even as he faced stiff resistance, Jordan vowed repeatedly to continue his fight. But after his third failed floor vote, the House GOP conference voted internally to push him out of the race in a dramatic turn of events. Jordans failure to win the gavel highlighted the limits of Trumps influence in the speakers race after the former president endorsed Jordan.

As Republicans failed to coalesce around successive candidates, frustration and tensions within the conference intensified and frequently spilled out into public view as members lamented the impasse and questioned whether anyone could secure enough support to win the gavel given the GOPs narrow majority.

Johnson emerges as new GOP leader

Johnson has a background as a staunch conservative Republican and an ardent Trump supporter.

After the election was called in favor of Joe Biden on November 7, 2020, Johnson posted on X, then known as Twitter, I have just called President Trump to say this: Stay strong and keep fighting, sir! The nation is depending upon your resolve. We must exhaust every available legal remedy to restore Americans trust in the fairness of our election system.

Johnson serves on the Judiciary Committee and the Armed Services Committee. He is also a former chair of the Republican Study Committee.

As CNNs KFILE has reported, Johnson has a history of harsh anti-gay language from his time as an attorney for a socially conservative legal group in the mid-2000s.

In editorials that ran in his local Shreveport, Louisiana, paper, The Times, Johnson called homosexuality an inherently unnatural and dangerous lifestyle that would lead to legalized pedophilia and possibly even destroy the entire democratic system.

In another editorial, he wrote, Your race, creed, and sex are what you are, while homosexuality and cross-dressing are things you do. This is a free country, but we dont give special protections for every persons bizarre choices.

At the time, Johnson was an attorney and spokesman for Alliance Defense Fund, known today as Alliance Defending Freedom, where he also authored his opposition to the Supreme Court ruling in Lawrence v. Texas  which overturned state laws that criminalized homosexual activity between consenting adults.

In 2022, Johnson also introduced a bill that some have described as a national version of what critics have called Floridas Dont Say Gay bill.
It's a high-tech Cinderella story that showcases CC students ability to think big and find solutions to lifes problems utilizing their intelligence, raw grit, courage, and determination. One in which this small, liberal arts school took on some of the biggest names in the Ivy League and won!

Four CC Computer Science students who met for the first time last week, participated in their first hackathon, and won first place!

They say they barely believe it themselves and are still laughing about their odds as they share what happened.

Ronan Takizawa 26, Primera Hour 25, David Prelinger 25, and Kylie Bogar 27 decided to participate in HackHarvard, a student-run hackathon where 100 teams of coders build a project with a prompt in a certain amount of time. They present their idea, demonstrate how it works, and then a team of judges decides who wins. There were about 600 participants from colleges and universities all over the country, including Harvard, Stanford, Penn, Rutgers, Boston University, and many more.

Did I think about winning? No! laughs Takizawa, a sophomore who leads the CC Coding Club. But I was confident wed get a project done at least. I told my team I think we should focus on getting the most out of this experience.

Takizawa simply wanted to host a hackathon at CC sometime and had reached out to the organizers of HackHarvard to find out how to run one. The Harvard students invited him to participate in the eighth iteration of the event with the theme Hack to the Future, in order to see for himself.

So, I assembled the Avengers and we met at Rastalls, jokes Takizawa. We didnt even know each other last week. We flew out to Harvards campus last Friday, bonded there, and worked together. Our chemistry helped us perform well.

After taking the red-eye to Boston on October 20 with about three hours of sleep among them, and a lot of Red Bull and coffee, they came up with "TeleSpeech," a Chrome Extension that converts messages on an app called Telegram into custom AI-generated speech, mimicking the distinct voice of the sender.

Text-to-speech exists everywhere in tech, but there arent many services that use peoples actual voices. This is what made their project stand out. In a group chat, friends write their text but they hear each others voice. The team was able to use tools available to them and make them interact with each other using resources they already know.

The implications of this technology are far-reaching. Not only does hearing a text in your own voice create the nuance and emotion inherent in human speech, but it also helps users with special needs who rely on text-to-speech, as this feature assists them in identifying who is talking when vocalizing the messages.

On the final day, (Sunday, October 22) David and Primera had to leave early to catch a flight back to Colorado, so Kylie and I had to present, says Takizawa. It was kind of like a science fair, with tables lined up in different rooms. We had three judges who reviewed our project. We gave a three-minute presentation and showcased a demo. We thought we did a great job presenting and left a good impression, but we werent sure. Later, Kylie was fast asleep on the floor and a lady woke her up and told her she was in the final round.

Bogar adds, I got woken up by this lady who said youre going to finals. Everyone was very nervous. I thought we did a good job. But I didnt think we did the best job. I had medium high hopes.

So, we walk into this room with 15 judges, continues Takizawa. It was a mix of senior Harvard Computer Science Students, software engineers, and venture capitalists.

The two did the presentation, showcased their project, and answered a few questions about the technology they used and how it works. Then came the closing ceremony when HackHarvard announced the awards.

We thought if we won anything wed get an accessibility award, says Takizawa.

Yes, the awards we thought we might win went by, but we didnt win those, adds Bogar. So, I figured we didnt win anything. Then I thought how funny would it be if we got first place. Again, I was like, nah, thats not happening.

That was when the Best Overall Winner was announced. First Place: TeleSpeech by the Colorado College coding team.

My jaw was literally on the floor like a cartoon, laughs Bogar. It was wild!

Bogar and Takizawa accepted four newest-generation iPads as their prize, along with all of the clout that comes with winning a hackathon.

It almost feels like a Cinderella story, says Hour, who joined CCs Coding Club last year and has the least amount of experience. If the Block Plan prepared me for anything, it was this hackathon. It felt like I was doing a project on finals weekend.

Competing with students from Harvard was pretty intimidating, Hour admits. I just learned to type Hello World two years ago and now Im winning HackHarvard!

I had just landed in Denver, opened my phone, and saw on a group chat that we won first prize and I thought they were pranking me! says Prelinger, a junior who says he has decent programming experience. I met Primera in the airport and she confirmed it. I saw the photos. I said I wont believe it until I see it. I needed to see the iPads to make sure theyre not trolling me!

I saw so many teams from colleges with high reputations and I thought they all probably have known each other longer and have competed in hackathons a lot before, adds Prelinger. The Chrome Extension thing was pretty new to me though.

The team plans to continue working on TeleSpeech, including services and expanding it to work on other messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. Takizawa is considering uploading it to the Chrome Extension store.

I figure its an idea that can really sell. We might need more financial support though, Takizawa says.

Takizawa and his team were able to pay their way to Massachusetts with help from the Career Center at CC using funds from the Class of 1981 Professional Development Fund, which is a fund to which alumni can donate to support students professional development opportunities.
Artificial intelligence poses a wide range of risks, including the possibility for AI tools to produce disinformation, disrupt certain sectors of the labor market, and magnify biases that exist within the data sets systems have been trained on, according to a new discussion paper from the UK government, published ahead of its AI Safety Summit next week.

The report doubles down on calls for a global consensus to tackling potential harms, and will be distributed to attendees of the summit with the aim of informing discussions and helping to build a shared global understanding of the risks posed by frontier AI, the government said in a statement released alongside the report.

The term frontier AI refers to highly capable foundation models that could exhibit dangerous capabilities.

The report consists of three parts, opening with an outline of the capabilities and risks of frontier AI, including how things might improve in the future as well as the risks that are currently present.

The second part looks at the safety and security risks of generative AI, while the last section focuses on what the Government Office for Science considers the key uncertainties in frontier AI, considering potential scenarios that could take place by 2023.

There are a range of views in the scientific, expert and global communities about the risks in relation to the rapid progress in frontier AI, which is expected to continue to evolve in the coming years at rapid speed, the government said, adding that the document draws on various sources, including UK intelligence assessments.

On the more dramatic end of the scale, the report also warned about the possibility of threat actors using AI to perform cyberattacks, run disinformation campaigns and design biological or chemical weapons.

As time goes by and frontier AI gets used more extensively, new concerns and risks will inevitably emerge, said Paul Henninger, head of connected technology at KPMG UK, adding that the more transformative the use of AI becomes, the more value it will create and the more real the risks become.

We have time to prepare for the change to come but we need the work on frontier AI safety being done today to be suitable for tomorrows solutions. Next weeks AI Safety Summit will kick off this activity, but organizations will welcome regular updates to guidance as new use cases develop, and the technology evolves, he said.

What can we expect from the upcoming AI Safety Summit?

The summit will see representatives from government and industry come together and attempt to develop a shared understanding of the technologys risks and put forward a process for international collaboration, including how best to support national and international frameworks.

The UK government hopes attendees will be able to identify areas for potential collaboration on AI safety research and showcase how ensuring the safe development of AI will enable AI to be used for good globally.

Around 100 people are expected to be in attendance, including representatives from AI vendors including OpenAI, Google Deepmind, and Anthropic, alongside global governments such as France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and the Netherlands. An invite was extended to the Chinese government and while it has been reported that the country intends to send a representative, further details have not yet been released.

Today, the US government confirmed Vice President Kamala Harris would be attending on behalf of President Joe Bidens administration.

AI will bring new knowledge, new opportunities for economic growth, new advances in human capability, and the chance to solve problems we once thought beyond us. But it also brings new dangers and new fears, said Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in a speech this morning.

The responsible thing for me to do is to address those fears head on, giving you the peace of mind that we will keep you safe, while making sure you and your children have all the opportunities for a better future that AI can bring, he said.
K Shanmugam takes over as SINDA chairman from President Tharman

The erudite, articulate and dynamic Singapore's Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam has been appointed Chairman of the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) Board of Trustees. He succeeds Tharman Shanmugaratnam, who relinquished his position as Chairman of the Board, following him taking over as the President of Singapore.

Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam has been appointed as the Chairman of the Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) Board of Trustees. Photo: SINDA

Straight shooting Minister Shanmugams association with SINDA spans 32 years since 1991, when the charity organisation for Singaporean Indians was founded. He served as the organisations Advisor from 1991 to 2002, and was President of the Executive Committee (EXCO) from 2002 to 2009. He has been a Life Trustee since 2010.

Min. Shanmugam is all smiles with the performers of Project Give. To his left is Anbarasu Rajendran, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Indian Development Association (SINDA) Photo courtesy: SINDA

Shanmugam helmed SINDAs EXCO during challenging times, such as the economic slowdown and the SARS outbreak in 2003, during which he oversaw SINDAs work in supporting those in need and introduced initiatives such as career placements and training, which benefited over 2,000 Singaporean Indians at that time. He also led SINDAs efforts in providing holistic support to students, launching programmes such as the Back To School Festival (BTSF) in 2008, to provide financial support to disadvantaged students and their families, according to a media release by the organisation.



Tharman, the outgoing chairman, has also been closely involved with SINDA since its founding in 1991. He was a member of the Action Committee on Indian Education (ACIE) report in 1990, which led to the founding of SINDA.



He has been a Life Trustee of SINDA since 2005 and was appointed Chairman in 2008. As Chairman of SINDA over the last 15 years, he provided the leadership and guidance which enabled SINDA to play a significant role in improving the Indian community, the charity for the Singaporean Indians said.



Tharman also oversaw the SINDA Strategic Review in 2011, which shaped SINDAs strategic thrusts and goals, with a greater focus on education, youth, family services and expanding support to households in need.



The recommendations stemming from this Review also saw a focus on early intervention initiatives, holistically supporting youth and family development. They also played a major role in contributing to improved academic performance of Indian students in the last decade, the release said.

Indranee Rajah, Minister in the Prime Ministers Office, Second Minister for Finance and National Development and President, SINDA said, Mr Tharman led SINDA with both verve and heart. Under his chairmanship, SINDA transformed as an organisation and expanded its reach and programmes to serve the community better.

"On behalf of SINDA and the Indian community I wish to thank Mr Tharman for his vision, his leadership and his manifold contributions. Minister K Shanmugam is strongly connected with the Singaporean Indian community, has in-depth knowledge of SINDA and its work and is well-positioned to take SINDA to the next level.

Earlier this month, SINDA kicked off its annual flagship initiative, Project Give (PG), to ensure that the needs of less-privileged students and families are looked after during the upcoming Deepavali festive period.
Contractors Question: Ive got a dual nationality of British and Spanish, but its Italy Im moving to in 2024.

I have worked in the UK for over 30 years, albeit as employee, although I will become self-employed in Italy.

So, will I be able offer my services in the UK, for UK companies, while primarily working remotely from Italy? I do envisage I will be visiting the UK a few days a month for face-to-face meetings and demonstrations to customers.

Are there tax or compliance considerations here, and also, would my situation put off potential UK customers? Finally, I would like the customers to pay me in pounds, and I feel that is going to be easier for them anyway. Please advise!

Experts Answer: Yes, you can offer your services in the UK, to UK companies, while primarily working remotely from Italy.

However, you should indeed be aware of a few tax and compliance considerations.

Tax

As a self-employed individual working in two countries, you must pay taxes. However, double taxation treaties are in place between the UK and Italy to prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income.

In the UK, you must pay income tax and National Insurance Contributions on your earnings. You must also register for self-assessment with HMRC and submit a self-assessment tax return to the tax department each year.

When youre in Italy, you must pay income tax and social security contributions on your earnings. You must also register as a self-employed individual with the Italian tax authorities.

If you are no longer a UK tax resident, you will not need to pay UK tax on your income outside the UK. However, you will still need to pay taxes in Italy on your global income.

Further (HMRC) considerations

Be aware, you must inform HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if youre either:

leaving the UK to live abroad permanently

going to work abroad full-time for at least one full tax year.

The tax year runs from April 6th to April 5th the following year.

As to how to inform HMRC, that depends on whether you fill in a tax return. It also depends on your employment status.

If you dont usually complete a Self-Assessment tax return

If youve already left the UK, fill in form P85 online. If you havent already left the UK, download and fill in form P85 offline.

If you usually complete a Self-Assessment tax return

You can tell HMRC youre leaving through your Self-Assessment tax return. Complete the resident section (form SA109) and send it to HMRC by post. Please note, you cannot use HMRCs online services to tell them youre leaving the UK.

Once you have established your UK non-tax resident status you are no longer subject to UK taxes on your worldwide income, although you will still be taxable on income that arises in the UK such as rental property income.

Compliance

Fortunately for you, with your Spanish passport, you can work and live freely in Italy, but you should register with the commune where you live.

You should also register as a self-employed individual with the Italian tax authorities.

What about UK customers?

Your dual nationality and being based in Italy should, in our experience, not discourage potential UK customers. Many UK businesses are looking to hire remote workers from overseas.

Also, your UK clients should not have difficulty paying you gross when you present your invoices. They need not worry about IR35 and the Off-Payroll Rules as you are not planning to work through a limited company.

GBP payments

You can ask your UK customers to pay you in GBP -- your preference. You can open a GBP bank account in Italy to receive these payments. You may also consider using a currency exchange service for the best exchange rate.

Final recommendations (includes learning the lingo!)

I recommend you speak to a tax adviser for specific advice on your tax situation.

Here are some additional tips with the move to Italy youre considering:

Make sure that you have a clear contract in place with each of your UK clients. The contract should specify the scope of work, the payment terms, and other relevant details. Your supply of services will likely need specifying as remote.

Keep accurate records of your income and expenses, which will help you to complete your tax returns accurately.

Make sure that you pay your taxes and social security on time.

Practice your Italian now as outside of Italys major cities, you may struggle to make a go of living there if youre constantly relying on your UK contacts for a conversation you understand!

The expert was Kevin Austin, managing director of overseas contracting advisory Access Financial.
We Are China

Launch history of manned missions to space by Long March-2F carrier rockets

13:17, October 26, 2023 By Jin Jianyu and Xu Zihe ( Global Times

Launch history of manned missions to space by Long March-2F carrier rockets

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
It's nearly time for the Academy Awards ceremony. Yes, we will all celebrate the greatest cinematic achievements of 2019, and also Joker. Not surprisingly, a lot of this year's nominees are based on true stories. But because real life is kind of boring (not to mention filled with unnecessarily gross bathroom scenes), these movies often alter the truth in ways you probably didn't know about. Such as how ... 5 The Irishman-- There's No Evidence That Frank Sheeran Killed A Single Person The Irishman is Martin Scorsese's acclaimed Netflix epic about mobsters who walk like haggard senior citizens but have the youthful faces of Pixar characters. The movie tells the story of real guy Frank Sheeran, a truck driver who becomes a hitman for the mob. At the climax, Frank murders his friend Jimmy Hoffa in an intense, upsetting scene which most people probably watched on their phones while on a treadmill at the gym. Netflix Which is a development we're sure the always-tolerant Martin Scorsese just loves. The movie incorporates plenty of real-world events and public figures from the '50s through the '80s, and is based on Charles Brandt's biography of Sheeran, I Heard You Paint Houses. But some are doubtful as to the story's authenticity. Not only are a lot of people skeptical of the idea that Sheeran killed Hoffa, but it's also questionable whether he ever killed anyone. Charles Brandt was a "medical malpractice lawyer" who helped Sheeran get early parole "due to poor health." According to his book, Sheeran unburdened himself to the lawyer, confessing his role as the man behind "some of the biggest mafia murders of all time." Which you have to imagine surprised anyone who bought the book expecting a nice story about home renovation. Steerforth Press "I wanted to write a book that had the chance of getting picked up as a miniseries by The History Channel and HGTV." Advertisement But no one else has ever accused Sheeran of killing anyone. Experts suspect that if Sheeran was involved in Hoffa's death, it was likely as a "bit player." And Sheeran himself denied involvement in Hoffa's disappearance back in 1995. Even when he was twice indicted in the murder of "union rivals," the government accused Sheeran of hiring hitmen, not carrying out the deeds himself. And an FBI expert said the idea that Sheeran was the one who bumped off Joey Gallo (another infamously unsolved case) was "crazy." Also casting doubt on the book is its far-out claim that Sheeran helped out with the Kennedy assassination (this is only hinted at in the movie). And Brandt's book deal was almost torpedoed by the publisher after it was discovered that a letter Sheeran claimed was from Hoffa turned out to be a "laughable forgery." Still, a murder-filled overview of American labor and organized crime is far more exciting than watching a retiree fabricate documents. Advertisement Related: 5 Real People Screwed By 'True-Story' Movies Based On Them

4 Harriet-- Um, Harriet Tubman Didn't Have Magic Powers, And Wasn't Saved By Her Onetime Slaver Harriet Tubman was a goddamn hero. That's obviously not up for debate. But she wasn't a superhero. Presumably because Avengers movies rake in more money than biopics, the recent film Harriet literally gives Tubman superpowers. In certain scenes, she receives visions from God that allow her to see the future and detect when enemies are nearby. If you think we're exaggerating, the director actually referred to it as Tubman's "Spidey Sense." Focus Features Focus Features Focus Features Just what we needed, another Spider-Man reboot. Advertisement While Tubman did claim to experience visions, she had suffered a "traumatic head injury" in her youth, and historians believe she had "narcolepsy, epilepsy, or both." So representing it as a straight-up supernatural ability akin to a teenager who can tell when a dude in a rubber goblin mask is about to attack seems kind of messed up. Advertisement Speaking of messed up, let's talk about Gideon. He's the son of Tubman's slaver who grows up alongside her and then becomes obsessed with recapturing her after she escapes, evolving into her nemesis of sorts. Yeah, he didn't exist. He hires a black bounty hunter named Bigger Long to help track her down. Long also didn't exist, meaning the screenwriters came up with the name "Bigger Long" and then decided never to change it. In the final confrontation, Gideon actually kills Long to prevent him from killing Tubman. Focus Features Focus Features Focus Features It's like the writers were having a contest to see who could wedge in the most clueless detail. This was decried as a "white savior" moment, although it's really more of an "Only I am allowed to kill you" situation. Still, it's a weird look for a Harriet Tubman movie. Predictably, when word of this scene hit Twitter, it stirred controversy, prompting the #NotMyHarriet hashtag. Advertisement Related: 7 Movies Based On A True Story (Are Shockingly Full Of Crap)

3 Ford v Ferrari-- Ken Miles Lost The Big Race Before He Won It Also known as 2 1/2 Hours You Can Spend Bonding With Your Dad Without Actually Talking, Ford v Ferrari is the story of how two men helped a giant corporation defeat another giant corporation with a really fast car. But despite the fact that it's about two real dudes, a lot of the story was changed so you wouldn't get bored and wander into a screening of Cats. Take the first race, in which Ken Miles (Christian Bale) drives for car designer Caroll Shelby (Matt Damon) at Willow Springs Raceway. Miles throws a literal wrench into the works. 20th Century Fox Because apparently the 1960s automotive scene was indistinguishable from an episode of Wacky Races Advertisement Advertisement Yeah, that race never actually happened. Later, after Ford hires the pair to win the prestigious 24-hour Le Mans race, Miles is fired for being a loose cannon and replaced with a new driver who embarrassingly loses the 1964 race, paving the way for Miles' triumphant return. First he wins Daytona in 1965. But unlike the exciting race in the movie, in which Miles is held back by Ford suits until the very last minute, the real race wasn't exactly a nail-biter. The Ford car won by five laps! And Miles wasn't even driving when it crossed the finish line; his co-driver was. While the movie shows the team going straight from the 1965 Daytona win to the climactic 1966 Le Mans race, they totally leapfrog over the 1965 Le Mans. Why? It would have been kind of a mood killer, because Miles did participate in the race, but didn't even finish. And stuff like Ford's dislike of Miles, or Shelby putting his company on the line to back his friend? All that was made up too. We should probably double-check that there's actually a car company named "Ferrari." Sounds fake. Advertisement Related: 24 Movies Based On A True Story (That Are Full Of Shit)

2 Bombshell -- There Were No Secretly Liberal Fox News Producers Bombshell tells the story of three women at Fox News taking on serial harasser Roger Ailes, played by John Lithgow in so much heavy makeup that it sometimes feels as though you're watching a pervy white remake of The Klumps. Lionsgate And yet somehow still better-looking than the actual Roger Ailes. The movie opens with text informing us that the movie is a "dramatization" of real events, and that "characters have been created for dramatic purposes." Such is the case with Margot Robbie's Kayla, who is a composite of several women's stories. There's also Kate McKinnon as Jess Carr, a producer for Bill O'Reilly's show who is both secretly gay and a closeted liberal. While she is a composite of real-life staffers, "no one of her specific profile ... was part of any of the reporting surrounding the Ailes scandal." Lionsgate Which seems redundant, since making Roger Ailes look like a ghoul shouldn't really require any embellishment. Advertisement Advertisement Almost immediately, Kayla and Jess hook up. That too was invented for the movie. There was no "secret lesbian tryst between an Ailes victim and a veteran producer." It's pretty clear that McKinnon's fictional progressive was contrived as a way to help non-conservative audiences sympathize with Fox News people. It's Jess who calls O'Reilly and Rush Limbaugh "GOP hacks" and defines the Fox brand by telling Kayla to "Ask yourself what would scare my grandmother, or piss off my grandfather?" More problematically, it's also Jess who helps audiences look past Megyn Kelly's history of racism, humorously dismissing it by telling Kayla "We don't love Megyn Kelly because she thinks Santa's white; we love her because she says it." Related: 7 Reasons Movies Based On A True Story Rarely Are

1 A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood-- Almost None Of It Happened A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood tells the touching story of how jaded reporter Lloyd Vogel learns to deal with his anger issues and mend his relationship with his estranged father after being assigned to profile iconic children's entertainer (and all-around superhuman) Fred Rogers. But despite the fact that the movie is "based on the true story of a real-life friendship," it turns out Vogel is as real as Daniel Tiger, King Friday, or the unfortunately named Mr. McFeely. Advertisement Advertisement Mr. Rogers was the subject of an Esquire profile, but it was written by journalist Tom Junod. And while he did become friends with Rogers, pretty much all the rest of the movie is made up. Junod never fought with his dad at his sister's wedding (his sister never even married), Mr. Rogers never visited his dying father, nor did his wife develop a friendship with Mr. Rogers over the phone (they never spoke). And unlike Vogel, Junod didn't have a newborn baby at the time. The couple later adopted a child, but that was thanks in part to the encouragement of Mr. Rogers. Vogel and Rogers' fictional dynamic exists to illustrate that Rogers' lessons about kindness and forgiveness can be just as important for adults as kids. But as great a movie as it is, they weirdly omit some of the best parts from the real Esquire profile. For example, the original piece opens with Mr. Rogers getting naked in a changing room, quipping to Junod that he's getting a "deeper glimpse" into his life than most others. Or how about the moment when Rogers takes Junod to a graveyard to visit the deceased members of his family, then takes a whiz in said graveyard -- or as Junod puts it, "a proud piss in his corner of heaven." We'd like the "frontal nudity and public urination" cut, please. Advertisement You (yes, you) should follow JM onTwitter! For more, check out The Awful Truth About Movies 'Based On A True Story' - Today's Topic: Follow us on Facebook. And we'll follow you everywhere.
The UK Parliament's Science and Technology Committee has launched an inquiry into the cyber resilience of the nation's critical national infrastructure (CNI). The Committee said it will assess the progress of UK CNI toward achieving recently announced resilience targets by 2025, what support the sector needs to achieve those targets and efforts to make computer hardware architecture more secure by design to protect CNI. It will also explore what the government's approach to standards and regulations for cyber resilience and preparedness, supply chain access, and trusted partners should be. Submissions of evidence are welcome and can be made until Friday November 10, 2023, the Committee said.

In April, the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) issued an alert to CNI organisations warning of an emerging threat from state-aligned groups, particularly those sympathetic to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The alert stated that newly emerged groups could launch "destructive and disruptive attacks" with less predictable consequences than those of traditional cybercriminals, with CNI organisations strongly encouraged to follow NCSC advice on steps to take when cyber threat is heightened.

In the same month, research from cybersecurity services firm Bridewell indicated that the cost-of-living crisis could trigger a rise in cyberattacks and security risks impacting UK CNI. The Cyber Security in Critical National Infrastructure Organisations: 2023 report found that over a third (34%) of organisations across UK CNI anticipate a rise in cybercrime as a direct result of the current economic situation.

UK the third most targeted country in the world for cyberattacks

The UK is the third most targeted country in the world for cyberattacks, after the US and Ukraine, the Committee wrote. "In recent years the UK has seen the use of offensive cyber capabilities by state and non-state actors proliferate. The UK government's National Cyber Strategy 2022 and the Government Cyber Security Strategy 2022-2030 recognised cyber threats to UK CNI - infrastructure whose disruption would have significant national impact - as an area of particular concern," it added.

Digital infrastructure is critical for supporting growth and helping to transform the delivery of public services. It is also a keystone in developing critical and emerging technologies within the Science and Technology Framework, and essential to UK national security under the 2023 Integrated Review Refresh, the Committee said. "Much of the UK's CNI is underpinned by this digital infrastructure, which must be resilient to cyberattack if it is to fulfil such fundamental roles in the UK economy."

The Committee stated is will welcome submissions addressing any or all of the following topics:
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has announced that the United Kingdom will establish the world's first AI Safety Institute to examine, evaluate, and test new types of artificial intelligence (AI). Sunak made the announcement during a speech at The Royal Society reflecting on a global responsibility to understand and address the risks surrounding AI to realise its benefits and opportunities for future generations.

Sunak delivered his speech just days before the UK hosts the Global AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park  the iconic home of computer science. In April, he announced plans to establish the UK government's Frontier AI task force to lead the safe and reliable development of frontier AI models, including generative AI large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Google Bard. It was launched in June and is backed with GBP100 million in funding to ensure sovereign capabilities and broad adoption of safe and reliable foundation models, helping cement the UKs position as a science and technology superpower by 2030.

Meanwhile, in August, AI was officially classed as a national security threat to the UK for the first time following the publication of the National Risk Register (NRR) 2023.

British people deserve peace of mind over advanced protections for AI

"The British people should have peace of mind that we're developing the most advanced protections for AI of any country in the world," Sunak said. "I will always be honest with you about the risks, and you can trust me to make the right long-term decisions."

The AI Safety Institute will assess and study these risks  from social harms like bias and misinformation, through to the most extreme risks of all - so that the UK understands what each new AI model is capable of, Sunak added.

"Right now, we don't have a shared understanding of the risks that we face. Without that, we cannot hope to work together to address them." The UK will therefore push hard to agree to the first ever international statement about the nature of AI risks to ensure that, as they evolve, so does shared understanding about them, Sunak said.
Ethos is a nationally recognized, award-winning independent student publication. Our mission is to elevate the voices of marginalized people who are underrepresented in the media landscape, and to write in-depth, human-focused stories about the issues affecting them. We also strive to support our diverse student staff and to help them find future success.



Ethos produces a quarterly free print magazine full of well-reported and powerful feature stories, innovative photography, creative illustrations and eye-catching design. On our website, we also produce compelling written and multimedia stories.



Ethos is part of Emerald Media Group, a non-profit organization thats fully independent of the University of Oregon. Students maintain complete editorial control over Ethos, and work tirelessly to produce the magazine.



Since our inception as Korean Ducks Magazine in 2005, weve worked hard to share a multicultural spirit with our readership. We embrace diversity in our stories, in our student staff and in our readers. We want every part of the magazine to reflect the diversity of our world.
There's a fascinating documentary on BBC2 at the moment: The Devil's Confession  The Lost Eichmann Tapes.

Eichmann was one of the prime organisers of the Holocaust, in charge of deporting millions of Jews to their deaths. After the war, he managed to escape to Argentina, where he lived under an assumed name.

In 1960, he was tracked down by Mossad, the Israeli intelligence agency, and abducted back to Israel, where he was tried for war crimes a year later. He argued that he had been simply following orders, but he was found guilty and hanged.

During the trial, key evidence against Eichmann was inadmissible: transcripts of an interview with him recorded in Buenos Aires in 1957 by a pro-Nazi journalist. Quite rightly, the judge declared that, as they were only transcripts, their authenticity could not be guaranteed.

The recordings themselves were thought to be lost, but have now been unearthed after being under lock and key for decades. They reveal that Eichmann was not simply an apparatchik acting on orders, but a passionate anti-Semite, eager to kill as many Jews as possible. 'I didn't care about the Jews I deported to Auschwitz,' he says on the tape, 'I didn't even care if they were alive or already dead.'

Eichmann was one of the prime organisers of the Holocaust, in charge of deporting millions of Jews to their deaths

In 1960, he was tracked down by Mossad, the Israeli intelligence agency, and abducted back to Israel, where he was tried for war crimes a year later

My late father-in-law, Colin Welch, attended the trial of Eichmann in Jerusalem and kept a diary of the proceedings. It's not only a masterpiece of observation  for instance, he notices how, under interrogation Eichmann's voice is 'gruff, hesitant, as though a man were talking in his sleep at the bottom of a well'  but also of moral outrage.

Colin couldn't keep his eyes off Eichmann, sitting there in the dock, just a few yards away. 'I can neither look at Eichmann nor stop looking at him, he fascinates and repels, like a snake.

'Not that he looks in any way odd. It would be more bearable if he did. If he had horns, a tail and eyes blazing with diabolical malignancy, we would say, 'Ah, yes, these crimes were committed not by a fellow human being but by a monster. They are nothing to do with us.'

'But, alas, he looks quite ordinary. He looks, in Nietzsche's phrase, human, all too human. He has, or had, a streaming cold. He coughs and sniffs, sneezes and blows his nose... he runs his tongue around his mouth, as though false teeth fitted badly.

'He is one of us, part of humanity... perhaps that is why we feel for him  yes  an overwhelming pity. I think that almost everyone in the court must feel this pity, though some of us might be ashamed to admit it.

'It is not a sentimental pity. It is not because we forget or can ever forget, least of all here and now, those terrible washhouses in which showered down not hot and cold but Zyklon B, the reeking smoking chimneys, those ghastly trains stuffed with suffering, starving, suffocating, dying people, the exhausted columns of women and children staggering through the night, the beatings, the cruel whippings, the kicks and blows, the systematic degradation, not only of guards and prisoners but also of all those who looked on without apparent remorse.

'All this was done to human beings, too, to six million of them or to many more. Heaven forbid that we forget that, or grow indifferent. Yet how can one not feel pity for any man who now faces death utterly alone and friendless, who may soon face a God whose existence he had denied (on the SS documents was entered 'Non-religious').

He argued that he had been simply following orders, but he was found guilty and hanged

'That any one man should go to his death bearing such an intolerable burden of guilt is appalling. We must weep to see God's image so besmirched.'

Finally, he quoted the words of the prosecutor, the Israeli attorney-general Dr Gideon Hausner: 'It is a terrible thing to realise that whoever sets his foot upon this path can no longer trace the way back to human values... his heart is destroyed; he is transformed into a chilly block of ice and marble, wrapped in documents, orders, instructions and proclamations.'

Of Eichmann's one-way journey into evil, Colin wrote: 'At points along this dark road there seems to have been extinguished in Eichmann all pity, kindness, conscience and natural feeling.'

And he concluded: 'If so, how little now remains to die  a mere husk, all that remains of what was once a whole man.'
When someone urges you to see an evil deed in context, he is generally making excuses for it.

What would you think if someone said that Myra Hindley's and Ian Brady's crimes 'did not happen in a vacuum'?

I would think I was in the presence of an apologist for evil and expect a repellent lecture about the two killers' unhappy lives, or some such bilge. Mind you, few things do actually happen completely out of the blue, including unwise and offensive remarks by international bureaucrats.

So let us also note that the shocking words of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres  that the October 7 Hamas massacre did not happen in a vacuum  also have a context. And that context is the abiding, profound anti-Israel bias of the UN itself.

In Israel, the UN is generally seen as an enemy and the evidence suggests that the UN feels much the same way about the Jewish state.

Israel called for the UN's Secretary General Antonio Guterres to resign after he says the Hamas raid 'didn't happen in a vacuum', but he says his comments were misrepresented

The UN's General Assembly is particularly given to walloping Jerusalem over the head with hostile resolutions.

Most famously, the Assembly once passed a savagely nasty resolution, number 3379, stating that Zionism  the movement which supports the creation of a Jewish state  was itself racism. Really?

Zionism developed as a reluctant but necessary response to incessant and often violent racist bigotry against Jews. Israel reasonably regarded Resolution 3379 as a crude insult. Yet with the backing of the old Soviet bloc, itself seething with anti-Jewish hatreds, and the Arab Muslim world, it was passed by 72 votes to 35 with 32 abstentions.

The then U.S. Ambassador to the UN, Daniel Patrick Moynihan, protested that by voting for this smear the UN had made anti-Semitism international law. Yet it only became possible to wipe it off the UN's books in December 1991  because the anti-Israel Soviet Union and its empire had crumbled into dust. But the unending hostility remains.

Countless UN General Assembly resolutions condemn Israel, while other countries with perhaps even more imperfect reputations rarely face such censure. So the comments by Mr Guterres will not have surprised anyone in Israel. They will also have gone down well in many of the grubbier corners of the UN.

How did this happen? Mr Guterres is a veteran Portuguese socialist politician, prominent in the European international Left, where he will have heard a great deal of anti-Israel rhetoric in the past half-century and not much to counter it.

The European Left, once sympathetic to Israel as the underdog, began to switch sides after Israel's crushing victory over its Arab neighbours in 1967.

The UK's immigration minister Robert Jenrick said it was 'wrong' to suggest there is any justification for the murder of 1,400 people including women and babies

This transformed Israel, in the eyes of many, from sympathetic David into unlovable Goliath. Instead of a tiny pioneer democracy of refugees surrounded by millions of wealthy, well-armed, despotic enemies determined to wipe it off the map (which it still is), Israel was instead viewed as a regional superpower, cruelly oppressing its minority Arab population. This must be one of the most effective achievements of propaganda in modern times.

Those of us with long memories know that both sides in the Arab-Israel conflict have done terrible things. In Israel's early years it was subjected to many brutal cross-border raids by so-called Fedayeen. The 1960s, 70s and 80s were full of hideous terrorist murders and hijackings, usually directed against civilians, from Munich to Entebbe, and the seizure of the cruise ship Achille Lauro by anti-Israel gangsters.

On the other side of the balance sheet, Israeli terrorists  who very much existed in 1948  undoubtedly committed shameful atrocities against Arabs in the war that year which established Israel's existence. The worst of these was the notorious Deir Yassin Massacre, in which Israelis killed dozens of Arab villagers including women and children.

The UN had tried, in 1947, to achieve an agreed partition of the so-called Palestine Mandate  in reality a British colony in the region which we could no longer afford to hold on to. The Arab leaders had rejected this plan and the nearby Arab states, especially Egypt and what was then Transjordan, invaded the territory pretty much immediately after British forces had pulled out.

It was not a simple Israeli victory. Fighting was often hard. Egypt captured what was now Gaza. Transjordan became Jordan after occupying what we now call the West Bank and much of Jerusalem.

In a powerful illustration of how the international Left and Right have switched sides on the issue, please note that one of the main backers of the new Israel was Joseph Stalin in the Kremlin  and the Jewish state bought many of their weapons and bullets from newly Communist Czechoslovakia.

Aerial photo shows abandoned and torched vehicles at the site of the October 7 attack on the Supernova desert music Festival by Palestinian militants near Kibbutz Reim in the Negev desert in southern Israel on October 13

Israeli soldiers inspect the site of a music festival near the border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel on Friday October 13

How things change. But perhaps the most profound and obvious point is that, had the Arab armies won in 1948, the Jews already living in that territory could not have expected much mercy.

The new state went on to face decades of hostility, cross- border attacks, threats and finally a full-scale Moscow-armed two-front invasion in 1973, by Syria and Egypt combined. Israel fought this off, eventually, but if things had gone the other way, where would the Jewish state and its inhabitants be now?

This is a very old, deep dispute with very high stakes for the Israelis if they ever lose. Over many centuries before these events, Jews in the Holy Land had been third-class citizens under Ottoman Turkish rule.

When Jewish migrants began to settle there in large numbers in the 1930s, they faced violent opposition, led by the unpleasant fanatic Haj Amin al Husseini, British-appointed Grand Mufti of Jerusalem.

Al Husseini (said to have been a hero of the late Fatah leader Yasser Arafat) hated Jews so much that he went to work for Hitler during World War II, recruiting Balkan Muslims for the Waffen-SS.

So to say, as Mr Guterres does, that the events of October 7 'did not take place in a vacuum' is in one way a statement of the obvious.

So why say so? It is a two-sided struggle which has seen quite enough blood and it did not begin 56 years ago, as Mr Guterres seems to think.

If you understand what is really going on in this part of the world, you realise that quite enough innocent blood has been shed and far too many people have tried to justify it when they should not have done.

Actually, I share Mr Guterres' view that the Israeli bombardment of Gaza should cease (it should never have begun), and that Gaza's power and water supplies should be restored. But there is no kind of context or historical wrong which in any way affects the proper human response to the Hamas pogrom.

That response must be utter disgust and condemnation without a hint of qualification. So he must not be surprised, working as he does for a body which has long shown a bias against Israel, if many people think he was making excuses for murder.
To understand the importance of Sir Keir Starmer's support for Israel's right to defend itself from terror, consider where we might be if his predecessor had still been Labour leader.

To this day, Jeremy Corbyn has found it impossible to bring himself to give a full and unambiguous denunciation of the massacre of Jews on October 7, the worst since the Holocaust.

This comes as no great surprise because he once notoriously described Hamas, the terrorist organisation responsible for the atrocity, as his 'friends'.

But things are very different now at the top of the Labour Party. Sir Keir has been steadfast in arguing that Israel has a right to defend itself.

But only at the top. The crisis that is now engulfing him as a result of his support for Israel exposes just how superficial much of his cleaning up of the party has been.

For many Labour members, the very word 'Israel' is enough to send them into paroxysms of irrational hatred. And while Corbyn may be gone, most of those who elected him and supported him as leader are still members  and are still pushing the same poisonous views.

To understand the importance of Sir Keir Starmer 's support for Israel's right to defend itself from terror, consider where we might be if his predecessor had still been Labour leader

To this day, Jeremy Corbyn has found it impossible to bring himself to give a full and unambiguous denunciation of the massacre of Jews on October 7, the worst since the Holocaust

It's ironic that Sir Keir's entirely correct stance over Islamist terrorism  which any decent person would surely condemn  is responsible for the worst crisis he has faced as Labour leader, with MPs, councillors and party members  and reportedly some members of the shadow cabinet  incandescent with anger that he is refusing to back down over his support for Israel's action against Hamas.

One Labour councillor, Shaista Aziz, yesterday attacked Sir Keir for 'a poorly phrased tweet that referenced Hamas's hostages'. I had to read her words twice to comprehend that yes, she really was criticising the Labour leader for calling for the release of the hostages. Meanwhile, more than 150 Muslim councillors are reported to have written to the Labour leader demanding he calls for an immediate ceasefire. Sir Keir has pointedly and rightly refused to back such calls, knowing that they mean giving Hamas the freedom to resume their activities.

At yesterday's Prime Minister's Questions, Labour's shadow equalities minister, Yasmin Qureshi, opposed this stance by demanding a 'humanitarian ceasefire' in Gaza, saying people were subject to 'collective punishment' for 'crimes they did not commit'.

Some 23 councillors have already resigned from Labour in protest at Starmer's position and in Oxford  where six councillors resigned  the party has lost its majority on the council.

Every resignation, every protest and every condemnation by party members of Sir Keir's stance shows the depth of Labour's problems.

Yesterday, Sir Keir and his deputy, Angela Rayner, met MPs who are angry with his stance on terror.

One Labour councillor, Shaista Aziz, yesterday attacked Sir Keir for 'a poorly phrased tweet that referenced Hamas's hostages'

According to reports of the meeting, he stressed that he has always said that Israel must adhere to international law, which it always does when it fights. Unlike Hamas, which deliberately butchers civilians.

This is a serious test for Sir Keir and the way he responds to it will teach us much about what sort of prime minister he might be should he win power.

There are already signs that the pressure is getting to him. In an interview with LBC on October 11, Sir Keir appeared to agree that Israel had the right to cut off the supply of power and water to Gaza.

But yesterday he tweeted that supplies of 'aid, fuel, water, electricity and medicines must be urgently ramped up'.

If he buckles, he will only confirm the claims of his critics who see him as a man who will say or do anything that gets him off the hook in any given crisis.

If he stays firm, however, he will demonstrate he can be resolute when it matters.

Stephen Pollard is Editor at Large of The Jewish Chronicle
A lost memoir of Edward VIII has come to light and for the first time we hear the authentic inner voice of the man who had briefly been King.

And what does that voice sound like? Whiny, romantic, wild, egotistic, a top note of royal petulance underpinned with a faint grasp of reality? Exactly. A typical Windsor male, in other words.

'I was a bachelor, alone and tired,' he moaned. It sounds like the opening line of a Johnny Cash song, but he was describing how he felt before he met Wallis Simpson. 'To live without love would have been intolerable,' he said, after he had fallen for her.

To his adviser, Walter Monckton, he set out his plans following the death of his father, King George V, in 1936. They are shocking to this day, because naive Edward really did think he could become King and have the twice-divorced, plucked and powdered Wallis by his side as Queen.

'I refuse to become a prisoner of the past. I must have a private life of my own,' he wailed.

Naive Edward really did think he could become King and have the twice-divorced, plucked and powdered Wallis by his side as Queen

Not so fast, your majesty. Private Secretary, Sir Clive Wigram, quickly informed him of the sobering truth of his situation in 1930s Britain. He said: 'Sir, you are quite mistaken. The King has no private life whatever.'

On hearing this, Edward threw all his toys out of his Silver Cross pram and abdicated instead.

All this is revealed in Once A King by Jane Marguerite Tippett, which throws a fresh perspective on how and why Edward chose to abdicate rather than live without the only woman he ever loved.

And reading the truth about Edward VIII and Mrs Simpson, I'm afraid I am not filled with syrupy admiration for his romantic sacrifice and subsequent elopement, but more struck by his selfishness and utter dereliction of duty. Edward kicked everyone in his family to the kerb, so that he and Wallis could live an aimless and empty life in exile, coddled by luxury but not much else.

Ditto Prince Harry with another American divorcee, nearly a century later. Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla? Let's not rake over those still-smouldering coals.

Yet while the Windsor men indulge themselves with their own wants and needs, it is noticeable that the Windsor women have always put duty first. Queen Elizabeth II, of course, rock solid on the throne for 70 years, no further explanation needed there.

Princess Margaret was no saint, but when she had to give up the love of her life because he was divorced, she accepted her fate so as not to upset the monarchy.

Princess Anne is not going to come over all rom-com any time soon, but whatever the right thing is to do, she has always done it.

Down the years his love story has echoes in the tortured relationship of others including the ongoing drama of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex

You can't always say the same for her brothers, uncles and occasionally wayward nephews.

Indeed, when you think about it, you have to wonder how the Windsor dynasty has managed to stagger on for so long. Certainly it is in spite of these selfish men rather than because of them.

It was Edward VIII who sowed the petulant seed that grew the giant hogweed of entitlement, and down the years his love story has echoes in the tortured relationship of others; in the long-running affair that preceded the marriage of King Charles and Queen Camilla; in the ongoing drama of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

History repeats itself over and over, right down to Edward VIII moaning about the Press while blaming everyone else for his own feebleness and limitations.

He was blinded and entranced by a woman in kick pleats from the New World who he believed could rescue him from the misery of privilege and the burden of destiny. Sound familiar?

Princess Margaret was no saint, but when she had to give up the love of her life because he was divorced, she accepted her fate so as not to upset the monarchy

In one chapter, he even rates Wallis Simpson's defining characteristics, writing down that she was 'demanding, strict, inflexible, exacting, chic, must-have-the-best and is easily hurt'.

Ring any bells in Montecito? Any glimmer of recognition or acknowledgement of shared experience from his Mini-Me great-great nephew? Thought not.

But, really, how have the Windsors got this far? To be a successful dynasty there must be strong leadership and a constant supply of family members who are committed to the cause; team players who vow to ensure clan survival above personal needs.

The Habsburgs, Mughal Empire, Hindujas  tick, tick, tick. The Cadogans and the Grosvenors, all the Lords of Bath; look upon them and wonder.

They have all managed to hang on to their fortunes, their vast estates and their power down the centuries with barely a blip; woe betide anyone who comes between a Cadogan and a month's rent, or a Grosvenor and an inch of their 300 acres of prime Belgravia and Mayfair, a family asset since the 17th century.

In one chapter, he even rates Wallis Simpson's defining characteristics, writing down that she was 'demanding, strict, inflexible, exacting, chic, must-have-the-best and is easily hurt'

Clogs to clogs in three generations, as the saying goes. The miracle is the Windsors have survived at all, for it always seems that the achievements of strong Windsor women will for ever be frittered away by weak Windsor men.

The rot started with Edward, but where will it end?

Chic Jen makes our news gals look frumpy

Many of us are still devoted to The Morning Show (Apple+) despite that disastrous second series that we don't talk about  and a cringe-worthy new cameo from Jon Hamm, blundering about as Elon Musk-alike mogul Paul Marks.

GLAM GODDESS: Jennifer Aniston stuns in silver as she attends a premiere in Los Angeles

So far he's had a sex scene with anchor Alex Levy (Jennifer Aniston) and flown into outer space, all without shaving his hideous Fred Flintstone stubble. Still, I am soothed as always by Alex's dreamy, monochrome luxe work wear; Saint Laurent trouser suits, Celine jackets and even a Khaite jumpsuit. This week the ultra-groomed goddess wore a beige front pocket knit midi-dress by Jil Sander, a masterpiece in minimalism for around 1,500.

I have to be honest. Our home-grown newsreader gals look like frumps in comparison.

Preachy play is a must-miss

Another oh-aren't-men-awful play opens in the West End, only to meet with oh-what-awful-rubbish reviews. There were high hopes for Lyonesse, starring Kristin Scott Thomas and Lily James, but not even their combined star power seems enough to save the production. 'Demonising of the entire male sex gives it the whiff of a lecture,' read one review. 'A curiously laboured and lacklustre affair,' wrote our very own Patrick Marmion.

Written by Penelope Skinner, Lyonesse tells the tale of an ageing star (Kristin) who wants a media executive (Lily) to tell the world how she escaped an abusive partner  but can her truth survive the process?

Frankly, who cares? Haven't we had enough morality sermons about #MeToo and coercive control, especially when set in a world where all the men are either irredeemably wicked or dead  or both?

'My vagina is broken,' says Lily at one point, in a performance that reviewers have noted is 'irritatingly whiny' from someone who is 'not a natural stage actress'. Do you think it sounds like a must-miss? Me, too.

Dame Mary Berry says we should all relax this Christmas. We should do ourselves a favour and buy ready-rolled puff pastry and use other culinary shortcuts such as panko breadcrumbs and shop-bought jars of mincemeat to ease the pain.

Mary, I've got news for you. We've all been doing that for years. In other reheated advice, the dame of festive delights suggests roasting your potatoes the day before and warming them up in the oven on Christmas Day. Sometimes, you know, she goes too far.

Dame Mary Berry says we should do ourselves a favour and buy ready-rolled puff pastry and use other culinary shortcuts this Christmas

In other dame news, Dame Maggie Smith is the unlikely star of the new Loewe campaign, photographed wrapped up in some sort of shaggy yeti coat and clutching their darling Puzzle handbag.

Dame Maggie Smith is the unlikely star of the new Loewe campaign, photographed wrapped up in some sort of shaggy yeti coat

So chic! So covetable! It's the only advert I've even seen that actually makes me want to go out and buy the damn bag, but that was before I discovered the price  2,400.

Who are all these fabulously rich women who can afford all these fabulously expensive things? That's what puzzles me.

One minority police seem loath to protect

You could be the most pro-Palestinian supporter in the world. You could convince yourself to loathe Israel and everything it stands for. But even if this were your position, it still takes a special kind of person to find satisfaction in the slaughter and abuse of innocent families, the elderly, women and children.

Those affluent, carefree, smug young people in London and elsewhere who have been ripping down the posters of kidnapped Jewish children not only make my heart sore, they make me fear for the future of humanity. You can argue about whether or not the Israeli response to the Hamas attacks is justified, you can take a side if you must  but why tear down pictures of women and children who have been abducted by Hamas terrorists? And even smirk as you take a delight in doing so?

There is abundant footage of these easily recognisable people on social media websites. Have any of them been arrested yet?

And now this weekend in London there is to be another 'March for Palestine'

There are barely 300,000 Jewish people in the UK, compared to four million Muslims

If it is a hate crime to misgender a transwoman or racially abuse a Muslim, surely this must count as a transgression, too? Not just because their pleasure in this mindless, petty desecration is awful to behold.

And now this weekend in London there is to be another 'March for Palestine'.

Fair enough that people want to express their support, but it is just not acceptable to do so in hostile ways.

There are barely 300,000 Jewish people in the UK, compared to four million Muslims.

Yet this is one minority the police seem loath to protect.

After the fall-out from Cakegate, Catherine Tyldesley has put her luxury house on the market  removal firms beware!

The former Coronation Street actress might try to tempt you with mentions on her social media in exchange for free transport to her new abode, you know what she's like.

Her four-bed house is on a quiet tree-lined cul-de-sac in the Greater Manchester area. It has a 36 ft open-plan kitchen, every modern luxury and is on the market for 875,000.

That could buy Catherine a lot of cupcakes, if she were inclined to pay for them in the first place.
The BBC and other Left-wing media outlets pump out Hamas propaganda. The Met refuses to arrest demonstrators calling for 'jihad' on the streets of London. Labour MPs side with terrorists.

All this got me thinking how we could ever have won World War II if the Beeb's editorial guidelines and Scotland Yard's woke police procedures had been in force back then...

London Calling, London Calling. This is the BBC Home Service. Here is the news, read by Lord Haw-Haw.

German militants have categorically denied bombing the East End of London overnight. They have produced evidence that the firestorm which claimed hundreds of civilian lives in the densely populated docklands was caused by an RAF Lancaster which crash-landed in Wapping on its way to inflict mass casualties in the Rhine Valley.

A spokesman for the National Socialist Party in Berlin accused the Allies of committing genocide against the German master race. This claim was supported by the Secretary General of the League of Nations, who insisted Germany had the right to defend itself against Allied aggression and colonialism.

He called for an immediate ceasefire and a halt to the planned D-Day invasion, which has already been postponed twice because of inclement weather in the English Channel caused by man-made climate change. The Health and Safety Executive has also said the invasion would be illegal because no proper risk-assessment has been carried out.

William Joyce, known as Lord Haw Haw, who broadcast Nazi propaganda in English from Germany

London Calling, London Calling. This is the BBC Home Service. Here is the news, read by Lord Haw-Haw, writes RICHARD LITTLEJOHN

In particular, troops assigned to landing craft heading for Normandy have not been issued with hi-viz jackets and there are concerns about the lack of disabled ramps and handrails on both Gold and Sword beaches. An HSE spokesman said there was a very real risk that someone might get hurt.

Pro-German demonstrations have been taking place across the country. In Trafalgar Square, 100,000 brown-shirted protesters were addressed by Sir Oswald Mosley, leader of the British Union of Fascists, who described Herr Hitler's National Socialists as his 'friends' and blamed the war on the global Jewish conspiracy.

Sir Oswald said claims that Germany had slaughtered six million Jews, gypsies and homosexuals in concentration camps were sheer fiction, propaganda designed to justify the unlawful Allied invasion of Europe. He said a Pathe newsreel of the alleged German bombing of Coventry and Plymouth had been staged at Elstree Studios.

As the crowd sang 'Deutschland Uber Alles', one demonstrator climbed to the top of Nelson's Column and planted a flag featuring a giant swastika. He was helped down by officers from the Metropolitan Police and given a nice cup of tea.

Nearby, a group of activists from Just Stop Coal, who had earlier slow-marched through London bringing traffic in The Strand to a halt, threw red paint at the War Office.

No arrests were made. The Met Commissioner, Sir Roly Powley, said the demonstrations had passed peacefully and stated he didn't have the legal power to arrest those involved.

Sir Roly told the BBC that in allowing the brownshirts to call for the mass murder of Jews, he was merely upholding free speech.

Specialist officers had assured him that the expression 'Final Solution' had a number of different meanings. He maintained that some of the more radical views voiced at the rally did not reflect those of the vast majority of peace-loving Nazis  sorry, militants  in Britain.

These include Herr Manfred von Stormtruper, the former head of the Waffen SS, who is now living in Barnet, North London. He was granted British citizenship after arriving in Kent in a rubber dinghy and allotted a council house, which he has since purchased at a discount under the right-to-buy scheme. The house was one of thousands of 'Homes For Heroes' built for veterans of World War I.

The Supreme Court ruled recently that all the young German airmen who have parachuted into Britain after crossing the Channel in Messerschmitt, Heinkel and Fokker aircraft should be treated as asylum seekers, not enemy combatants. Under the Geneva Convention, they must be housed in four-star hotels, not prisoner-of-war camps.

In Walmington-on-Sea, local residents demonstrated outside the Grand Hotel, which has been closed to the public and is being used as temporary accommodation for several dozen members of the Luftwaffe, shot down by Spitfires during the Battle of Britain. They object to them being given three square meals a day while British citizens are on strict rations.

Police arrested local butcher Jack Jones, a veteran corporal who served in the Boer War and World War I, for waving a Union Jack, throwing a pork chop, wielding a meat cleaver and shouting: 'They don't like it up 'em!'

Magistrates found him guilty of sedition and he is due to be hanged on Wednesday, half-day closing. At the same court Wolfie Trotsky, trustafarian president of the Students' Union at Walmington University, who painted pro-German slogans on the war memorial outside the Town Hall, was fined ten shillings.

William Joyce, who broadcast from Nazi Germany as 'Lord Haw Haw' during WW2 is seen in captivity

In Parliament, Mr Attlee is facing a rebellion from Labour MPs who have always been unhappy about him agreeing to join Mr Churchill's Coalition Government. They say he should show solidarity with the National Socialists in Berlin.

Mr Attlee avoided mentioning the war during Prime Minister's Questions this afternoon, concentrating instead on cost-of-living issues, such as the price of snook and paraffin oil.

A number of Labour front-benchers are threatening to resign if he continues to back the planned D-Day incursion, which they insist is a clear breach of international law. Mr Attlee recently told the Home Service Britain had a right to respond to German attacks.

Last night, as German militants continued to fire V2 rockets at London in self-defence, residents were told not to seek refuge in Underground stations, which have been closed indefinitely because of the strike by members of the RMT rail union. Anyone attempting to cross picket lines in an effort to gain access to low-level platforms will be shot on sight.

In other developments, Scotland Yard said it is investigating a complaint that Mr Churchill and Sir Arthur Harris are guilty of war crimes for authorising the 'collective punishment' of German citizens.

The complaint has been made by a man known only as 'Nick' and is being handled by a specialist squad, codenamed 'Operation Midland', which was responsible for the inquiry into historic sex crimes by the founder of the Boy Scouts movement and popular entertainers, including the producer of The Ovaltineys.

Vera Lynn has been forced to call off her morale-boosting tour of Army bases.

Her songs, including We'll Meet Again and There'll Be Bluebirds Over The White Cliffs Of Dover, have been condemned as racist, white supremacist, colonialist and anti-German. The BBC's director- general has ruled that they will no longer be played on the Light Programme.

In East London, police raided a school in Stepney and arrested a number of children who were singing the subversive ditty Hitler Has Only Got One Ball in the playground. They have all been charged with 'transphobic hate crime' and will appear in juvenile court tomorrow. They face up to ten years in borstal.

Stonewall, the LGBTQWERTY+ rights organisation, protested that Herr Hitler is halfway through gender reassignment treatment, which is why he's only got one ball. Herr Himmler is very similar.

Herr Goebbels has recently undergone successful transition and has no balls at all. Henceforth, he will be know as Frau Goebbels and if found guilty at the Nuremberg trials, in the unlikely event of an Allied victory, will be able to serve his sentence in the women's section at Spandau jail.

That's all the BBC News for tonight. I'm Lord Haw-Haw. Join me again tomorrow.

London Calling at the top of the dial. And after all this, won't you give me a smile!
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark looked typically stylish as she visited the United States to mark United Nations Day and attend the World Anti-Bullying Forum 2023.

Mary, 51, delivered an opening speech during a reception at a UN Mission event in New York to mark Denmark's champion role in 'The Coalition on Addressing Sea-level Rise and Existential Threats'.

She debuted an eye-catching floral dress from ba&sh, teamed with her trusty Harris Wharf London wool blazer and Gianvito Rossi leather pumps.

Named 'Elonor', the dress featured a square neckline, mid-length sleeves and figure-skimming skirt that fell to the shin.

The reception was attended by UN ambassadors from the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which is an association of 39 small island developing states, as well as a number of other representatives.

Crown Princess Mary of Denmark arrived at the UN Mission in a new floral dress by ba&sh

Mary's speech highlighted her country's role in raising awareness of the consequences of climate change, including the impact of sea level rise and low-lying communities.

The Princess elevated her look with lashings of jewellery, including Dulong 'Delphis' rose quartz earrings, a Rebekka Notkin bracelet and a Julie Sandlau diamond medallion necklace containing initials of her four children.

Yesterday, the royal participated in a series of meetings to mark UN Day.

One gathering with the executive director of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russel, and several other female UN ambassadors, considered the international work with education and climate.

The mother-of-four then gave an opening speech at a round table discussion on the future of multilateralism, organised by Singapore and the International Peace Institute (IPI), with the participation of representatives from the FOSS countries (Forum of Small States).

Later in the day, Mary, who is patron of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), met with the executive director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Dr. Natalia Kanem, to discuss the rights of women and girls.

She gave an opening speech that highlighted Denmark's role in raising awareness of the consequences of climate change

Mary debuted an eye-catching floral dress from ba&sh, teamed with her trusty Harris Wharf London wool blazer and Gianvito Rossi leather pumps

Mary looked relaxed as she chatted to a number of guests

On Wednesday, the Crown Princess participated together with the Mary Foundation in the World Anti-Bullying Forum 2023, held at Raleigh, North Carolina.

She started the Mary Foundation in 2007 with the mission of fighting social isolation.

Under her leadership, it brings together untraditional partners to develop and manage projects that focus on prevention, the creation of opportunities and empowering vulnerable individuals and groups who find themselves socially isolated.

The foundations focus areas are domestic violence, bullying, wellbeing and loneliness.

The World Anti-Bullying Forum brings together researchers, practitioners and other professionals who will look at the issue of bullying from various perspectives.
Ever wonder how stars like Jennifer Lopez, Gigi Hadid, and Kim Kardashian have shoulder-length locks one day and a long flowing mane the next? Spoiler alert: it's not their shampoo and conditioner. It's hair extensions!

The long hair look is trending, and while straight extensions are aplenty in a broad range of color, length, and texture offerings, curly options are harder to find.

In the market for some corkscrew tresses? Emily Anderson - Customer Service Manager as well as Hair Expert at Irresistible Me - reveals everything you need to know about curly extensions.

Beyonce stunned at The Atlantis in Dubai with lengthy caramel locks

Red carpet hairstyles are always the best of the best.

From slicked back tresses to retro bobs, styles that require poker straight hair have been trending for several seasons but long curly locks in all their bohemian glory are making a comeback.

Beyonce stunned at the Atlantis The Royal Grand Reveal Weekend in Dubai with lengthy caramel strands, while Julia Roberts' signature red curls looked extra voluminous at the screening of 'Armageddon Time.'

Want to add volume, length, and texture to your hair like Queen Bey or Julia? Extensions are an easy solution.

Julia Roberts' signature red curls looked extra voluminous at the screening of 'Armageddon Time'

Blake Lively gave us disco vibes at the Michael Kors show in a gold jumpsuit and '70s-style hair

Why are curly extensions harder to find?

There are several different types of extensions on the market, including magnetic, tape-ins and clip-ins.

Clip-ins are the most common and versatile; you can find them in textures ranging from straight to curly, but it is much more difficult to find curly options, as the majority of salons and beauty stores tend to stock straight hair varieties.

'Straight extensions are easier to produce, require less intricate processing, and can be easily styled into different textures by the end-user,' explained Emily.

'Curly extensions undergo a different setting process compared to straight ones.'

Curls are created artificially in two ways: chemically (permed) or steamed (hair is rolled onto rods or curling instruments).

'The hair then undergoes a gentle heating process to set the curls. Straight extensions, on the other hand, don't go through this curl-setting phase, but care is taken to ensure the integrity of the hair cuticle remains intact throughout the process for both types.'

Curls may be harder to create, but the romantic look is hotter that ever.

According to Emily, the trend is thanks in part to the beauty community's growing emphasis on embracing natural textures.

Curls may be harder to create, but the romantic look is hotter that ever. According to hair expert Emily Anderson, the trend is thanks in part to the beauty community's growing emphasis on embracing natural textures

Stars like Jennifer Lopez and Gig Hadid have shoulder-length locks one day and a long flowing mane the next thanks to hair extensions

Before getting extensions, you need to identify your curl pattern. Type 1 (straight) Type 2 (wavy) Type 3 (curly) Type 4 (coily)

Types of Curl Patterns:

Before getting extensions, you need to identify your curl pattern.

Type 1 (straight)

Type 2 (wavy)

Type 3 (curly)

Type 4 (coily)

The sub-classifications of A, B and C are based on the width of your wave, curl, or coil.

Type As have a wider pattern size, while Type Cs have the tightest, and Type B falls somewhere in between.

Each pattern offers a unique look and texture.

'Always ensure that you match the curl pattern of the extensions as closely as possible to your natural hair for a seamless blend,' Emily advises.

Clip-ins from Irresistible Me come in a tube, and every set comes with one tester piece so that you can match your color and texture before opening the container.

Getting the curl you want

When you first receive the extensions they may appear tighter due to the time spent in the packaging.

To help them achieve a looser look, 'gently take them out of the packaging, give them a gentle shake to let the curls fall naturally and lay them flat.'

Clips can also be gently brushed with an hair extension brush.

'Curly extensions undergo a different setting process compared to straight ones,' Emily of extension brand Irresistible Me shared

Halle Bailey attended Milan Fashion week rocking gorgeous curls down to her waist

How to care for curly clip-in extensions

To increase the lifespan of your extensions, they need to be properly cared for.

Curly clip-ins can be washed but not too often, aim to wash them every 12-15 uses.

'Use sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners, and avoid tugging or pulling while washing,' advises Emily.

'Just like naturally curly hair, curly extensions require extra care and hydration.'

According to the expert, regularly moisturizing extensions with leave-in conditioners can help maintain the curl pattern.

'Heat can be applied, but sparingly, and always use a heat protectant. It's also advisable to do a strand test with any hair products you intend to use to ensure compatibility.'

How to install your extensions

'The basic placement is similar to straight extensions, starting from the nape and working upwards,' Emily reveals.

Don't arrange extensions right next to each other, you want to be strategic.

'With curly clip-ins, you might want to place them in a staggered manner to ensure the volume is distributed more naturally across the head.'
Peter Morgan, creator and writer of Netflix hit The Crown has claimed that critics of the series, such as Dame Judi Dench and John Major, may feel 'stupid' for lambasting the show.

Viewers and public figures alike have openly criticised The Crown for rewriting history, with Dame Judi, 88, accusing it of 'crude sensationalism', and former Prime Minister John Major, 80, calling the show 'nonsense'.

Last autumn, Netflix bowed to pressure and started to preface the show with a disclaimer, which says: 'Inspired by real events, this fictional dramatisation tells the story of Queen Elizabeth II and the political and personal events that shaped her reign.'

However, in an interview with Variety, Peter Morgan said: 'All the criticism about The Crowns attitude to the royals comes in anticipation of the show coming out

'The minute it's out and people look at it - whether it's Judi Dench or John Major - they instantly fall silent. And I think they probably feel rather stupid.'

Dame Judi Dench, 88, has openly criticised The Crown, accusing it of 'crude sensationalism'

Series 6 of The Crown will portray the last days of Princess Diana played by Elizabeth Debicki (pictured with the young actors who play Prince Harry and Prince William)

Dame Judi was one of those who called for a disclaimer to be inserted at start of each episode to show respect for the bereavement suffered by the Royal Family and the nation in the wake of Queen Elizabeth's death.

In October 2022, the veteran actress who has played Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria, wrote to the Times, saying the Netflix series risked damaging the monarchy.

The Oscar-winning actress criticised the show for crude sensationalism and blurring fact and fiction in a dramatic intervention during an ongoing row over the shows rewriting of history.

Dame Judi, who was made a Companion of Honour in 2005, objected to scenes of Prince Charles lobbying to force his mothers abdication in series five, saying it would give an inaccurate and hurtful account of history.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister John Major, 80, (pictured) described one storyline as a 'barrel load of malicious nonsense'

A fictional scene in series 5 sees John Major, played by Trainspotting star Jonny Lee Miller, summoned to a private meeting by Prince Charles who asks him for help persuading his mother to abdicate

She wrote: The closer the drama comes to our present times, the more freely it seems willing to blur the lines between historical accuracy and crude sensationalism.

Similarly, Sir John Major was unimpressed by the fictional abdication storyline, which saw Prince Charles lobbying him to persuade his mother to give up the throne.

Sir John, who was prime minister from 1992-1997, described the abdication storyline as a 'barrel load of malicious nonsense'.

The sixth and final series will be released in two sections. Part one will be available on the streaming service on November 16, while part two will be revealed on December 14.

Fans will see some historic moments recreated on screen, such as Princess Diana's final days before she died in a car crash in Paris in August 1997.

Other significant events will include the meeting of Prince William and Kate Middleton in the early 2000s, the 2002 Golden Jubilee and the marriage of Charles and Camilla in 2005.

The series has already raised eyebrows after leaks suggested Diana's ghost, played by Elizabeth Debicki, has an emotional reconciliation with a grieving Prince Charles, played by Dominic West.

The imagined scene comes after Charles has been depicted sobbing over her body in a hospital morgue in Paris.

She then appears in phantom form again to Queen Elizabeth II, played by Imelda Staunton, as they discuss funeral arrangements with Charles - with her appearance seemingly reducing the Queen to tears.

However, Morgan has denied the appearance is meant to be the ghost of the late Princess and says his depiction shows how she continued to 'live vividly in the minds of those she has left behind'.

Upcoming: The series six poster shows one striking shot of Princess Diana in a blue bathing suit sat at the end of a jetty

In the interview, Mr Morgan described himself as a monarchist, who appreciates the work the Royal Family does for the country - and said it's what makes Britain unique.

He continued to explain how every member of the population is emotionally tied to the monarch, whether it be consciously or subconsciously.

The writer also expressed sympathy for Prince Harry, but said he has refrained from reading the Prince's tell-all memoir Spare as he didn't want it to influence The Crown's narrative.

Since the series focuses on the line of succession, Harry only features as a minor character.

Mr Morgan believes that concluding with the marriage of Prince Charles and Camilla was the 'dignified' thing to do. However, he did hint at a prequel predating Queen Elizabeth II.
Roman expressed his relief at having support and 'somewhere to go to'

A teenager who grew up in foster care has officially found his forever home only hours shy of his eighteenth birthday.

Roman Balassaitis from Jacksonville, Florida, has experienced his fair share of upheaval in his life, having lived in 19 different places since the age of 11.

But after staying with the Balassaitis for 14 months, parents Brad and Renee wanted to make him an official part of their family and faced a race against time to give Roman stability before he aged out of the care system and was no longer eligible for support.

The couple officially adopted him on October 17, first via Zoom and then in Clay County Historic Court House - 40 miles away from Jacksonville.

Brad Balassaitis told First Coast News: 'He [Roman] doesn't have to worry about bouncing around anymore, he knows that we are here for him.'

Roman Balassaitis (pictured) told First Coast News that his heart was beating with excitement before officially becoming a part of the Balassaitis family - only hours shy of his eighteenth birthday

The young man told how his heart was nervously beating in excitement during the process, adding: 'It means I have someone to go to. It means if I need someone to talk to, I have people to talk to now.'

Mother-of-nine Renee was looking forward to the teenager's brighter future after making him a part of their family, noting that the young man just needed to feel supported, as well as 'wanted and chosen'.

Roman has also changed his second name to that of his adoptive family.

The couple first met their adopted son whilst he was living in a group home at the age of 12.

Roman would often pop-up at their family home, engaging in Nerf gun fights with Brad and Renee's children.

He first lived with the Balassaitis for nine months after leaving the group home, but was not ready to be adopted at the time.

Renee, who has nine children altogether including Roman, described him leaving their home at the age of 13 as 'crushing'.

However, their foster child remained in contact with the family, and in August 2022 the Balassaitis' discovered Roman wanted to live with them again.

According to USA today, the young man first stayed with the family in an unofficial capacity, but was later placed into their foster care.

Last December the parents discussed adopting Roman with their other children, who said they already regarded him as their sibling.

Renee and Brad Balassaitis raced to adopt Roman before his birthday. They are relieved the young man - who has lived in 19 different places since the age of 11 - now has a base will no longer have to worry about being moved around. Pictured from left to right: Austin, Brad, Roman, Renee, Tatianna and Halle

Later, on Christmas day, Roman was given the most priceless gift, with Brad and Renee revealing they were adopting him.

The mother of nine told Today: 'We were all sobbing, All Roman has ever wanted was to find his forever family.'

Roman has been extremely relieved ever since the day of his adoption, according to his mother, who says his change in demeanor is obvious.

The foster parents wanted to give the young man the stability he never had growing up, so that he has a home base and always has somewhere to stay during the festive season.

Brad and Renee have adopted seven children, Tom, 28, Chrissy, 26, Austin, 22, Sammy, 20, and Tatiana, 17.

They pair who have fostered 20 children since 2008, also have three biological children Jared, 22, Halle, 18, and 18-year-old Rose who passed away in 2022.
With Halloween just around the corner, many of us are gearing up to attend scary parties this weekend - but one unlucky woman has been banned from them because of her unique body art.

Melissa Sloan, 46, from Powys, Wales, said she's never invited to any spooky themed parties to celebrate the autumnal holiday due to the 800 inkings spread over her body.

But this is not the first joyous occasion the mother of seven claims she has been barred from. First she was banned from her child's nativity play, and she doesn't get to go to Christmas parties either.

She told the Daily Star: 'People say I don't need a costume because I'm scary enough.

'I just take no notice of them as there's nothing I can do. I just carry on with the tattoos, more tattoos.'

Melissa, who has seven children, said that since having 800 tattoos she has not been invited to any spooky themed parties to celebrate Halloween

She claimed she would love an invitation one day and joked that she could buy a mask to make her look like Freddy Krueger - the disfigured killer from the film A Nightmare On Elm Street - to cover up her 'scary' face and avoid offending people.

Melissa hasn't just been banned from social occasions - she also hasn't found a driving instructor who's prepared to give her lessons.

One man almost gave her a chance but she scared him off after their first lesson. The tattooed mother admitted that her looks were capable of startling strangers at first glance.

Too add to her woes, Melissa has been unemployed for 20 years as a result of her extreme body art.

Among the reasons why employers may be deterred is an inking of the infamous Kray twins who terrorised the East End of London.

However, the tattoo fanatic intends to prove people's assumptions about her are wrong - by becoming a solicitor.

But while she can't find a job, she is keen to try for an eighth child with her partner Luke to complete her already huge family

In the meantime, she is keen to try for an eighth child with her partner Luke to complete her already huge family.

She admitted that prior to deciding to get pregnant again she didn't have sex for three years.

However, it's now back on the agenda because her children kept pestering her for another sibling.

A pregnancy at 46 would involve health risks, but Melissa is optimistic that there won't be any complications.

Melissa, who got her first tattoo in her 20s, acknowledged that her newborn won't ever see her real face, which is fully covered in ink.

Revealing the motivation behind her extensive body art, she said it was her way of covering the 'emotional scars' of sexual abuse by her paedophile brother.
A 15-year-old boy was put in isolation for a full day and told to chop off his mullet because the hairdo is 'too extreme', his mother says.

Toby Quinn was separated from his classmates and put in isolation after his teachers told him his Aussie-style trim was 'unacceptable and unprofessional'.

St Aidan's Catholic Academy, in Sunderland, gave the teenage boy a week to chop it off.

He was previously punished and isolated for having his hair too short, and was left fuming when he was told his haircut was now too long.

The school extended the deadline when his mother said he was growing it for charity, but now he's been forced to cut it short.

Toby Quinn was separated from his classmates and put in isolation after his teachers told him his Aussie-style trim was 'unacceptable and unprofessional'

The school extended the deadline when his mother said he was growing it for charity

Toby's mother Naomi, 47, said the school considered her son's new haircut extreme

Toby's mother Naomi, 47, said the school considered her son's new haircut extreme after recently changing their haircut policy.

READ MORE - The modern mullet! Celebrity hairdresser reveals why the style is not just a haircut - plus what to consider before getting the chop Advertisement

The mother of two said: 'His teachers said they'd changed the haircut policy and it had to go.

'They said that it wasn't professional and he wasn't allowed to have it and was told to cut it off.

'I don't know why a 15-year-old needs to be considered professional. The general gist was that it was considered extreme.

'He did get isolated for having it, he got separated from the school community and he was there for the rest of the day.

'He's been in isolation previously for having his hair too short. They didn't allow skin fades.

'Strangely they relaxed that haircut rule and they were allowed to have skin fades. He was the only boy with a mullet in school and they didn't like it.

'Staff told me he had to have his mullet cut off. I was told in a meeting it had to be cut off.

'That was about four weeks ago, they'd given him seven days to get rid of the hair.'

St Aidan's Catholic Academy, in Sunderland, gave the 15-year-old a week to chop it off

On Tuesday, Toby had his mullet cut off for Newcastle Hospitals Charity to support a ward which saved his grandad's life last year

The teenager has managed to rake in over 340 in donations so far after setting up a JustGiving page three weeks ago to raise money for the ward

The teenager, from Ashbrooke, Sunderland, was initially given a week to chop off his locks but teachers extended the deadline when he revealed his plans to raise money for charity.

And on Tuesday, Toby had his mullet cut off for Newcastle Hospitals Charity to support a ward which saved his grandad's life last year.

The teenager has managed to rake in over 340 in donations so far after setting up a JustGiving page three weeks ago.

READ MORE - Battle of the mullets! Boys competing in the kids' final of the 2023 US Championships proudly flaunt their luscious locks Advertisement

His mother, who is a hairdresser, said: 'We told them he's decided to raise money and they said he could have a couple of weeks.

'He wasn't happy at all though to lose the mullet, he said he was fuming. But he's come to terms with it, he's had a few weeks to digest it.

'He thought it would be good to get something positive out of a pretty rubbish situation.

'I suggested it would be good to raise money for the unit that saved his grandad last year.

'We started three weeks ago. His target was 200, but he raised over 340 now.

'But he's a typical teenager so he's pretty chilled about it all.'

The 15-year-old said: 'I was fuming when my mam told me the school said my mullet had to go.

'But then I thought about doing the fundraiser and making a bit of money for charity and I felt better about it.

'My mam said about the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle because they saved my granddad last year and maybe I could help other people who have had heart attacks too.'

Several schools in Australia have banned the hairstyle - which rose to prominence in the 70s and 80s - as it's recently come back in style.

But it is believed to be the first time a British school has clamped down on the mullet.

Once made famous by the likes of Jason Donavan, Rod Stewart and Andre Agassi, modern celebs like Miley Cyrus and Rihanna have also sported the haircut.

MailOnline has approached St Aidan's Catholic Academy for comment.
A new Me Too-inspired play boasting an impressive cast including Lily James and Kristin Scott-Thomas has been branded an 'embarassment' in a slew of scathing reviews.

Playwright Penelope Skinner revealed she actually rewrote her entire script after receiving lukewarm feedback over the first version of Lyonesse from a theatre team.

However, if early reviews of the production, which runs at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London until 23 December, are anything to go by, it may be in need of a second rewrite.

Oxford-based Skinner's script, directed by Ian Rickson, has been branded 'chaos', 'shambling' and difficult to believe by unimpressed critics, with one branding Oscar nominee Kristin Scott Thomas 'hammy'.

The plot follows Elaine, a formerly famous actress who attracts the attention of Kate, a film executive who wants to hear her Me Too story. Meanwhile Kate's husband (also a film director) is pestering her to have another child. Soon, Kate, Elaine and Elaine's neighbour Chris develop a keen interest in each other - but from there, critics say the plot 'descends into chaos'.

Likening the play to an 'undergrad experiment', The Times's Clive Davis argued that even the star-studded cast of Lily James (Kate), Kristin Scott-Thomas (Elaine) and James Corrigan could not make up for the script.

Critics across the board have panned Penelope Skinner's new play Lyonesse which opened at the Harold Pinter Theatre last night

Speaking to the Guardian, Skinner, who shot to fame in 2011 when The Village Bike opened at London's Royal Court, said she began writing Lyonesse in 2019 and ended up with a first script that was four hours long and 'a little crazy', in her own words.

'It was not a play that anyone would want to watch,' she admitted, before adding she went back to the drawing board to rewrite the whole thing. The only element she remained was Scott-Thomas's character Elaine.

She also discussed the difficulty, as a playwright, in leaving actors and a director to take a script you have written to interpret in their own way.

The Me Too-inspired play, starring Lily James (pictured) and Kristin Scott-Thomas has been criticised for its 'shambling' script

The Evening Standard's theatre critic Nick Clark was left wondering how Lily James and Kristin Scott-Thomas had joined the cast in the first place

'It can be that you think youve written one story and then it turns out youve written something quite different,' she said - although she added she found the process of letting go was positive in this instance.

However as critics across the board question the writing and direction in the production, it seems the audience didn't quite buy into Skinner's and Rickson's vision...

THE DAILY MAIL

Rating:

The Mail's Patrick Marmion gave Lyonesse a modest three-star review with the dazzling starlets in the cast helping to sell-out the first showing of the play.

However aside from Lily James's 'flawless' acting, Marmion described the plot as 'a laboured and lacklustre affair'.

He wrote: 'It's like a curious mishmash of Sunset Boulevard and Ab Fab set in Cornwall.'

Marmion said the three hour play needed 'more gags' to sustain the audience.

He added that the Me Too commentary was lacking a new take, writing: 'What we get instead is a solemn mission to promote sorority and re-run the MeToo debate yet again  with no new insights.'

THE TIMES

Rating:

Clive Davis for The Times said Skinner's play might be something you'd expect to see at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival - and later put down to 'an undergrad experiment'.

Despite direction from Ian Rickson, Davis suggested the play seems to move along 'at random', and he was left wondering why such big stars wanted to be involved with a script full of 'risible dialogue'.

After the three characters, Kate, Elaine and Chris develop a bond, Davis said the script 'descends into chaos'.

He argued the script was so poor that there was only so much Scott-Thomas and James could to with it.

At the end of his scathing review, Davis presumed the play is titled Lyonesse after a mythical kingdom in Cornwall that became submerged overnight in the sea.

'If only this utter embarrassment of a production could meet the same fate,' he wrote.

THE EVENING STANDARD

Rating:

The Evening Standard's critic Nick Clark was among the voices questioning why Lily James and Kristin Scott-Thomas, whom he described as 'hammy', got involved with Skinner's production in the first place.

He suggested the aim of the play, to expose the difficulties of being a woman, failed to make a statement with the audience, who are instead forced to watch 'underdeveloped' characters.

Clark described Kate as a 'wet blanket', Elaine as a 'raging narcissist' and Chris as a 'stereotype' as the trio form a friendship.

Much like the other critics, he criticised the plot, which 'lurches improbably forward as if it is being made up on the spot'.

He speculated that Skinner was aiming for some kind of 'absurdism' in her plot and script, but didn't agree that the style had come off as intended.

Describing the play as a 'car crash', he wrote: 'This seems like an assemblage of half-baked ideas and lazy conceits.'

THE TELEGRAPH

Kristin Scott-Thomas plays Elaine, a once sought-after actress who has a Me Too story to tell about her time in the limelight

Rating:

Serena Davis for The Telegraph argued that Lily James and Kristin Scott-Thomas, the latter of whom provides 'flashes of inspiration'.

In a review that found more to enjoy within the play, Davis argued the plot didn't quite fit the category of Me Too; rather, coercive control as both Kate and Elaine are largely dominated by their male partners.

As the play depicts domineering men and submissive women, Davis suggested some of the symbolic devices were old and tired, and have 'been around as long as Ibsen'.

Although she praised the performances of the lead actresses, Davis said the way in which men are demonised means the play gives off a 'whiff of a lecture'.

THE i

Rating:

Fiona Mountford for The i described the play as 'the most barking thing I have seen in a long time', which descends down 'a rabbit hole of bewilderment'.

During the first act of the play, Mountford revealed she truly questioned how Skinner expected an audience to take the production 'even halfway seriously'.

When the production returned for its second act, however, her bewilderment turned into a hope that the audience would soon 'be put out of our misery'.

Much like many critics, Mountford agreed Scott-Thomas and James's big names in lights brought in the audience, but were unable to make up for the plot.

She wrote: 'Star casting will always work its magic, regardless of the quality of the drama, which explains the arrival of the inexcusably poor Lyonesse.'
Long-standing favourites such as Furby and Barbie and a 10 card game have all made it on to Amazon's top toy list for Christmas 2023.

Also among the toys expected to be popular on letters to Santa this year are the Pokemon Trading Card Game Battle Academy and L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers to wing their way around your home on Christmas morning.

The gifts range in price from stocking fillers such as the Asmodee Dobble card game for 9.99 to big presents such as the LEGO Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II Set, costing 149.99.

Amazon's Top Ten Toys for Christmas 2023 1) Asmodee Dobble card game 9.99 The Asmodee Dobble card game for 9.99 is a perfect stocking filler for children aged 6+, t A family favourite in recent years, the Asmodee Dobble card game has grown in popularity thanks to the quick-fire format that tests speed, observation, and reflexes. A perfect stocking filler for children aged 6+, theres fun to be had for all the family with up to 8 players per game. 2) Disney Platinum Limited Edition Mystery Capsule 10 Disney Platinum Limited Edition Mystery Capsule for 10 is a collectible set featuring perfect replicas of favourite Disney Store characters A brand at the heart of family fun, Disney, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, and Mini Brands has released the Disney Platinum Limited Edition Mystery Capsule, a collectible set featuring perfect replicas of favourite Disney Store characters, with incredible design detail to delight collectors, kids, and kids at heart. 3) Pokemon Trading Card Game Battle Academy 17.99 The Pokemon Trading Card Game Battle Academy for 17.99 has everything you need to charge headlong into battle, with either Cinderace or Pikachu leading your team Continuing on the 90s nostalgia, Pokemon cards have been a pocket money must-have for school kids for years. This year looks to be no different, with Amazon tipping the Pokemon Trading Card Game Battle Academy to be a hit. The board game has everything you need to charge headlong into battle, with either Cinderace or Pikachu leading your team. 4) Barbie Magical Ballerina Doll 18.66 The Barbie Magical Ballerina Doll for 18.66 will definitely be a hit after the Barbie movie Following the smash hit Barbie movie, Amazon experts tip the Barbie Magical Ballerina Doll to be on many Christmas lists this year, featuring light up details to spark excitement. 5) Hape Multi Musical Block Set with Five Musical Instruments 27.93 The Hape Multi Musical Block Set with Five Musical Instruments is only 27.93 A popular option for children 18 months+, the sustainable Hape Multi Musical Block Set promotes dexterity and hand-eye coordination, as well as musical development and exploration. 6) L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers 35.00 The L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers for 35.00 is also predicted to be in-demand L.O.L. Surprise! Magic Flyers are also predicted to be in-demand this Christmas with each of the three characters featuring a unique design, and wings that really fly. 7) PLAYMOBIL City Action Fire Truck 39.95 The PLAYMOBIL City Action Fire Truck for 39.95 will be a favourite for kids this Christmas The PLAYMOBIL City Action Fire Truck features a firefighter, siren, rotating foam canon, and functioning winch. With cool lights and sound effects, the fire truck is another timeless classic for letting kids imaginations run wild. 8) Numberblocks Step Squad Mission Headquarters Deluxe Playset 39.99 The Numberblocks Step Squad Mission Headquarters Deluxe Playset for 39.99 also made the list STEM toys that help with at-home learning are also expected to be popular including the Numberblocks Step Squad Mission Headquarters Deluxe Playset. 9) Furby Purple Interactive Toy Plush 59.99 Continuing the 90's nostalgia, the Furby Purple Interactive Toy made the list which retails at 59.99 People born in the 90s will likely remember Furby, as the owl-like creature was a "must-have" for kids of the time. This year, Hasbro has brought the line back and the Furby Purple Interactive Toy Plush makes Amazons list for 2023, bringing todays kids the opportunity to experience the joy of this talking toy that's full of adorable, hilarious, and sometimes sassy surprises. 10) LEGO Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II Set 149.99 Two enormous franchises come together with the LEGO Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II Set for 149.99 Exclusively available on Amazon.co.uk, two enormous franchises come together in the LEGO Star Wars Ghost & Phantom II Set. Featuring Ahsoka Vehicles, buildable Starship toys, and five characters including Jacen Syndulla and a Chopper Droid Figure, this toy will bring fun to all the family. Advertisement

Hundreds of toys from the must-have list will be donated to families in need in time for Christmas, as part of The Multibank charity initiative, founded by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Amazon.

The Multibank initiative, which launched in 2022, was created to meet the needs of families and individuals living in poverty.

The two Multibank sites in Lochgelly, Fife, and in Wigan operate as a 'click and collect' service for over 1,000 local charities and professionals to access surplus goods for people in need.

The truck will be stopping off at the Multibank sites  'Brick-by-Brick' from The Brick, Wigan and 'The Big Hoose' from The Cottage Family Centre, Fife.

The toys will also be donated to children living in deprived areas of Swansea, via the charity Faith in Families.

Matthew Redfearn, Toys Category Leader at Amazon UK said: 'It's always fascinating to see which toys are looking like the must-haves in the lead up to Christmas and this year's list shows a real trend for 90s nostalgia.

'Toys like Barbie and Furby have a lot of love and have stood the test of time amongst children throughout generations, and we have a wide selection beyond that for all ages and budgets.

'We will also be delivering hundreds of toys from the list to families in need in time for Christmas as part of the Multibank charity initiative, helping more children to discover the joy of toys.'

A giant tonka-style toy truck filled with toys will be touring the UK in the lead up to Christmas

Hundreds of toys from the must-have list will be donated to families in need in time for Christmas, as part of The Multibank charity initiative, founded by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Amazon

Keely Dalfen, CEO of The Brick, said: 'Financial pressures at this time of the year are enormous, but for families on the lowest incomes the pressures are even greater.

'That is why initiatives such as the Multibank are so important to provide amenities and support to tens of thousands of vulnerable families across the UK each year.

'With the help of Amazon this Christmas, we are able to extend our offer to include this year's most sought-after toys.

'Together, we hope to spread some festive joy and provide a magical Christmas for families and ensure children can return to school feeling included and excited about their new gifts.'
The Princess of Wales' brother James Middleton has welcomed his first chid with wife Alizee Thevenet.

The entrepreneur, 36, and French financier, 33, were spotted going for a walk with the newborn in Notting Hill on Tuesday.

The baby - whose gender has not been revealed - is the first cousin of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis and the niece or nephew of Kate and William.

The parents have kept the exact details and date of the baby's birth private. It's believed he or she was born in recent weeks as James shared a snap of his then-pregnant wife on September 12th to celebrate their anniversary and declare: 'the best is yet to come'.

Already a doting dad, James fit right in with the west London set as he pushed a 795 Silver Cross pram while sporting an autumnal ensemble of navy chinos, brown boots and a green jacket.

He added a yellow scarf to brighten up the look, while Alizee proved she was a cool mum in a double denim look with a blue shirt and jeans which she paired with a 1970s-inspired brown suede coat and fur gilet.

Princess Kate's brother James Middleton has welcomed his first chid with wife Alizee Thevenet

The entrepreneur, 36, was spotted alongside Alizee going for a walk with the newborn in Notting Hill on Tuesday

The baby - whose gender has not been revealed - is the first cousin of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis and the niece or nephew of Princess Kate and Prince William. James and Alizee are pictured

James added a yellow scarf to brighten up the look, while Alizee, 33, sported a double denim look in a blue shirt and jeans which she paired with a 1970s-inspired brown suede coat and fur gilet

Keeping her blonde hair long and loose, the French financial analyst showed off he natural beauty in a make-up free look while clutching a shopping bag and cup of coffee.

Slung in the bottom of the pram was a travel bag from Sezane - which costs around 127. The brand is a favourite of Princess Kate's.

The couple, who live near where Kate, sister Pippa and James grew up in Bucklebury, Berkshire, strolled along Westbourne Grove in Notting Hill.

James announced Alizee's pregnancy on Instagram in July, where he shared a snap of his wife in a olive green dress with their dog Mable in a gorgeous countryside setting.

'We couldn't be more excited  well Mable might be,' James wrote, before referencing his tough year following the death of his dog Ella.

'It was a very difficult start to the year after losing my beloved Ella however we will end the year with the most precious little addition to our growing family'.

It's likely that Kate will certainly welcome becoming an aunt again, as she has mentioned she is 'feeling broody' on many occasions.

James and Kate's sister Pippa has also has three children with her husband James Matthews: - Arthur, Grace and Rose - meaning the new addition will be the seventh grandchild of Carole and Michael Middleton.

The parents have kept the exact details and date of the baby's birth private. It's believed the baby was born in recent weeks

Already a doting dad, James, 36, pushed the 795 Silver Cross pram while sporting an autumnal ensemble of navy chinos, brown boots and a green jacket

Keeping her blonde hair long and loose, the French financial analyst showed off he natural beauty in a make-up free look while clutching a shopping bag and cup of coffee

The couple, who live near where Kate, sister Pippa and James grew up in Bucklebury, Berkshire, strolled along Westbourne Grove in Notting Hill

Slung in the bottom of the pram was a travel bag from Sezane - which costs around 127. The brand is a favourite of Princess Kate's

Ella is James' beloved spaniel, who died last year aged 15.

Writing in The Telegraph in 2021, James explained he met Alizee in 2014 at Chelsea's the South Kensington Club when Ella 'made a beeline for Alizee'.

James, who was 'embarrassed', went over 'to apologise and bring Ella back', recalling how Alizee thought he was a 'waiter' and 'ordered her drink while continuing to stroke Ella, who at this point was on her back lapping up the attention.'

Who are Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis's Middleton cousins? As well as Archie and Lilibet from their uncle Prince Harry, the Wales children have three cousins on their mother's side. Arthur William Matthews, born October 2018

Grace Matthews, born March 2021

Rose Matthews, born June 2022

Baby Middleton, born September or October 2023 Advertisement

He has previously credited the black spaniel with helping him overcome his mental health struggles and introducing him to his wife .

In January 2019, James explained in a personal essay for the Daily Mail how Ella had helped him through his depression battles.

He wrote: 'During the day I'd drag myself up and go to work, then just stare with glazed eyes at my computer screen, willing the hours to tick by so I could drive home again.

Alizee and James got engaged in September 2019 but had to delay the ceremony twice in the due to Covid, before finally announcing they had tied the knot in Bormes-les-Mimosas in Provencein 2021.

Alizee, who is trilingual has lived and worked in London for several years, is currently a director at TreasurySpring, a fin tech firm that uses digital pipelines to connect cash rich firms to institutional borrowers.

She's the daughter of retired diplomat Jean-Gabriel Thevenet, who lives in Paris and is currently pursuing a career as a writer and poet.

Her father is very fond of his daughter's husband, previously describing Alizee as 'deliriously happy' with James.

'My daughter Alizee is very happy with James, they are very much in love,' Mr. Thevenet told MailOnline in March 2019 when news of the couple's relationship first broke.

'James is a very charming man,' he said. 'I am very happy that Alizee is together with James. I know she is very happy. We keep our fingers crossed for them.'

The finance guru has lived in six countries - Germany, Indonesia, Chile, France, Belgium and England.

James announced Alizee's pregnancy on Instagram in July. 'We couldn't be more excited' he said at the time

James and Alizee dipped in and out of coffee shops as they enjoyed the autumnal stroll in west London

Alizee and James are pictured in London on Tuesday

It's likely that Kate will certainly welcome becoming an aunt again, as she has mentioned she is 'feeling broody' on many occasions. Alizee and James are pictured

James and Kate's sister Pippa has also has three children with her husband James Matthews: - Arthur, Grace and Rose - meaning the new addition (pictured) will be the seventh grandchild of Carole and Michael Middleton

The pair strolled through the west London village while Alizee held onto her phone

With three nieces and three nephews James has no doubt had practice looking after babies

Despite new parenthood the pair looked well-rested and stylish for the walk

Stylish Dad James came equipped with a posh pram for his walks with the baby

James and Alizee clutched onto coffees for their walk through Notting Hill

Need a caffeine boost? James, the youngest of the Middleton siblings, clutched what appeared to be flat white for the walk

The pair made the most of the bright autumn day in the idyllic west London neighbourhood

Alizee appeared to have pink headphones strapped around her for the walk

Dashing James carried his essentials in a backpack as he strolled through Notting Hill

James and Alizee carried bags while pushing the child through the posh west London streets

New parenthood hasn't affected the couple's style who looked effortlessly chic during the walk

The couple appeared relaxed as they walked through Notting Hill

Alizee (pictured) who is trilingual has lived and worked in London for several years, is currently a director at TreasurySpring, a fin tech firm that uses digital pipelines to connect cash rich firms to institutional borrowers

Alizee and James got engaged in September 2019 but had to delay the ceremony twice in the due to Covid, before finally announcing they had tied the knot in Bormes-les-Mimosas in Provencein 2021. They are pictured this week in west London

Alizee is the daughter of retired diplomat Jean-Gabriel Thevenet, who lives in Paris and is currently pursuing a career as a writer and poet

The couple live in a 1.45million home in Bucklebury, west Berkshire. The village Kate, Pippa and James grew up in

The finance guru (pictured) has lived in six countries - Germany, Indonesia, Chile, France, Belgium and England

The pair appeared casual as they strolled through Notting Hill this week

Alizee has been settled in the UK for several years, graduating with a masters degree in investment and finance from Queen Mary, University of London

The pair appeared to enjoy the autumnal walk through west London

Alizee looked chic in a 70s-inspired look while James appeared to stick to his countryside routes

James walked alongside Alizee as the pair enjoyed a stroll

Clutching onto coffee, the pair looked delighted to get some fresh air

But Alizee has been settled in the UK for several years, graduating with a masters degree in investment and finance from Queen Mary, University of London.

The couple live in a 1.45million home in Bucklebury, west Berkshire. The village Kate, Pippa and James grew up in.

Before then she did her undergraduate degree in accounting and finance in Brussels. On her Linkedin profile, she descries herself as having a 'high work ethic and dedication to success' as well as 'always being open to new ideas'.

Alizee has a keen interest in sailing and watersports and shares James' love of dogs, with the pair often sharing snaps of them out and about with the entrepreneur's beloved pets.

Her father revealed how his daughter Alizee is named after the sub-tropical trade wind  known as the Alize in French.

While sporting a mostly muted look, James added a touch of brightness with a canary yellow scarf

The new parents are likely getting many sleepless nights and held onto coffee for their walk

Alizee was all smiles as she laughed with James and enjoyed new parenthood

James looked serious while the pair chatted

Animated Alizee chatted to James during the walk

The new parents looked healthy and well as they enjoyed their coffees

The pair were completely in their own world and enjoying new parenthood

James has previously described how Alizee had helped to transform his life following crippling depression

James and Alizee have been married two years and just welcomed their first child

Alizee, pictured, appeared to pick up both coffees while James pushed the pram

Alizee let her long blonde hair loose while chatting to James during the walk

Doting dad James looked delighted during the outingAli

Alize opted for boot boots while carrying her phone in a sling over her body

The couple fit right in with the cool west London set in their chic attire

The pair will no doubt be familiar with west London after visiting William and Kate in their previous home at Kensington Palace

Clearly part of the cool mum set, Alizee showed off a double denim look

He said: 'My daughter is named after my first love which is wind-surfing and the Alize wind that fills the sails.'

James has previously described how Alizee had helped to transform his life following crippling depression.

They were first seen together at the Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Fund's Christmas Carol Service at St. Luke's Church.

The following month, they were spotted vacationing in St. Barts along with James's sister Pippa and her husband James Matthews.

James, the brother of Made in Chelsea's Spencer Matthews, is the son of David Matthews who own the Eden Roc hotel on the island.

James and Alizee live in a four-bedroom Grade II listed period farmhouse with beams and leaded windows in a village on the Bucklebury fringes.

It means Kate's family are all now near-neighbours, with parents Carole and Michael living in a 4.7 million Georgian manor house in the village, while her sister Pippa recently bought Bucklebury Farm Park, a petting zoo which is a favourite of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

A timeline of James and Alizee's romance July 2018 - The couple are believed to have met when Alizee stopped to say hello to one of James' dogs while at South Kensington Club December 2018 - James and Alizee are seen together at Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Fund's Christmas Carol Service at St. Luke's Church. January 2019 - Alizee was first spotted with James while she holidayed with his sister Pippa and brother-in-law James Matthews in St. Barts 7 May 2019 - James shares his first snap with Alizee on Instagram, where the couple wear matching orange jumpers. He wrote: 'Sail Away With Me' May 2019 - Alizee accompanies James to Lady Gabriella Windsor and Thomas Kingston's wedding in Windsor alongside the Middleton family July 2019 - Alizee joined James, sister Pippa and mother Carole Middleton in the Royal Box to watch the Wimbledon final September 2019 - The couple move in together at James' West London pad 5 October 2019 - Reports emerge that the couple are engaged, with James proposing in private to his beau 6 October 2019 - James announces the news on Instagram, writing: 'She said Oui' 12 September 2021 - The couple get married in France 5 July 2023 - The couple announce they are expecting their first child 24 October 2023 - The couple are spotted in Notting Hill with the child Advertisement

The tres chic life of Kate's sister-in-law: James Middletons wife Alizee Thevenet is a French financier and daughter of a late diplomat who grew up all over the world

Kate's brother James Middleton has welcomed is first child with wife Alizee.

Alizee, who has lived and worked in London for several years, is currently Head of Private Equity and Venture Capital at TreasurySpring, a tech firm that uses digital pipelines to connect cash rich firms to institutional borrowers.

Sharing a close relationship with both her parents, she's the daughter of the late diplomat Jean-Gabriel Thevenet, who died just months before her South of France wedding to James, which had to be postponed twice due to Covid.

Friends said it meant the bride and groom's big day was a joyful occasion tinged with some sadness because Alizee's father could not be there to walk her down the aisle.

A source told MailOnline: 'It was a happy day but sadly Jean Gabriel was not there. He died five months ago. He was only in his 60's. It is a real tragedy. His wife Laurence was at the wedding, of course.

Princess Kate's brother James Middleton revealed his wife Alizee Thevenet is pregnant with the couple's first child. The entrepreneur, 36, shared a sweet picture of Alizee's growing bump to Instagram yesterday

'I know that Alizee wanted her father to be there too. But it wasn't to be. They had to delay the wedding twice and it was too late for him.'

James and Alizee got engaged in September 2019 and the ceremony was originally planned for summer 2020.

However it had to be postponed due to Covid restrictions and a second attempt to re-arrange it in the 12 months prior also failed.

By the time they were finally able tie the the knot in the village of Bormes-les-Mimosas near the Cote d'Azur in September 2021 it was too late for Mr Thevenet. It is not know what he died from.

'Jean Gabriel would have loved to be there on Alizee's special day. It is so sad that Laurence had to go to the wedding on her own,' added the friend.

This loved-up image of the couple was posted to Instagram by James when he shared a series of holiday pictures from their getaway in Sicily

James and Alizee (pictured) wed in front of 50 guests including the Prince and Princess of Wales, then the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their three children at the Chateau Leoube

James previously shared a photo of his stunning French bride Alizee walking the dogs in nothing more than a pair of boots and a bikini, pictured

James and Alizee wed in front of 50 guests including the Prince and Princess of Wales, then the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and their three children at the Chateau Leoube, an exclusive vineyard owned by British billionaire JCB chairman Anthony Bamford in Provence that produces some of France's finest rose wine.

Earlier the couple had been married by the mayor at the town hall.

James announced the marriage on Instagram with a photo of the happy couple smiling with the caption: 'Yesterday I married the love of my life surrounded by family, friends and of course a few dogs.'

Alizee's father previously revealed his joy when their fledgling relationship emerged in January 2019 and said he was 'delighted' when they announced their engagement eight months later.

Speaking from the window of his rustic bed-and-breakfast in the mountains of Condat-sur-Ganaveix, rural France, Mr Thevenet, told MailOnline: 'My daughter Alizee is very happy with James, they are very much in love.

'James is a very charming man. I am very happy that Alizee is together with James. I know she is very happy. We keep our fingers crossed for them.'

One of snaps shared by James to celebrate the couple's news shows Alizee, 33, in a olive green dress with their dog Mable in a gorgeous countryside setting

James and Alizee are seen at their brother-in-law's estate at Glen Affric on the Scottish Highlands

Mayor of Condat-sur-Ganaveix Michel Plazanet confirmed Mr Thevenet's death. His spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'Mr Thevenet died about five months ago. It is very sad.'

Mrs Thevenet declined to comment when contacted by MailOnline at the time.

Her father previously revealed how his daughter Alizee is named after the sub-tropical trade wind  known as the Alize in French.

He said: My daughter is named after my first love which is wind-surfing and the Alize wind that fills the sails.

James has previously described how Alizee had helped to transform his life following crippling depression.

The couple met at the private South Kensington Club in 2018 when Jamess cocker spaniel, Ella, bounded over to Alizee.

French finance expert speaks three languages and grew up around the world with her diplomat father

Alizee has a keen interest in sailing and watersports and James previously shared a series of snaps of his wife relaxing on a boat enjoying a holiday in Italy

James shared a snap of the stunning financier through his business account Ella Co, showing Alize on the beach playing fetch with his adorable pooch

The couple are pictured attending the wedding of Lady Gabriella Windsor and Mr Thomas Kingston at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle in 2019

They were first seen together at the Henry van Straubenzee Memorial Funds Christmas Carol Service at St. Lukes Church.

The following month, they were spotted vacationing in St. Barts along with James's sister Pippa and her husband James Matthews.

James and Alizee snapped up a property in Berkshire village of Bucklebury, for 1.45 million. Its a four-bedroom Grade II listed period farmhouse with beams and leaded windows in a village on the Bucklebury fringes.

It means Kates family are all now near-neighbours, with parents Carole and Michael living in a 4.7 million Georgian manor house in the village, while her sister Pippa bought Bucklebury Farm Park, a petting zoo which is a favourite of Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

After more than a year of dating, the couple announced their engagement in September 2019. James is believed to have proposed during a trip in the Lake District.

Alizee was seen in a picture shared on his Instagram with a stunning sapphire ring on her finger.
Graeme and Mel, from Hackney Downs, appear in Grand Designs on Channel 4

A couple who ran out of money building their dream family home on Grand Designs have been slammed for their decisions by viewers - with some comparing their striking red unfinished home to a Monopoly hotel.

Architect Graeme and graphic designer Mel, who appeared in last night's episode of the Channel 4 programme, built their own unique north-east London house in Hackney Downs on the site of two garages - creating something of a departure from the terraced yellow-brick houses lining the rest of their street.

They hoped to build a three-storey, three-bedroom home designed by Graeme with enough space for Mel's daughter Indie, 13, and Graeme's daughter Isla, 15, to each have their own room.

But after two years on the project, Graeme told presenter Kevin McCloud he may have to resort to selling the property as they have run out of money to fix issues with the basement - where the girls' bedrooms were supposed to be.

Although Kevin McCloud gushed over the almost finished home, viewers took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice their strong disagreement - branding the house covered in red cladding 'fugly' and also criticising the couple's financial decisions - including taking a trip to Morocco to pick out floor tiles.

A couple who appeared on last night's episode of Grand Designs have been mocked on X, formerly Twitter, for their 'fugly' house

Graeme and Mel, from Hackney Downs, north-east London, claim they may have to sell the home after they ran out of money towards the end of the project

Viewers posted on X about the look of the finished home - with one person likening it to a Monopoly hotel

On Kevin's first visit to see Graeme and Mel, the couple revealed the tragedies that the family has been through, with both girls losing a parent at a young age.

Isla's mother passed away within weeks of Indie's father's death, so Graeme stressed the need for their new home to be a fresh start and a 'statement' for the family.

Graeme, who met Mel at a wedding after spotting her on the dancefloor, told Kevin: 'We are creating a brand new family from two families.'

He described the house as 'symbolic' by giving the family a chance to create their own identity. 'The new home is just perfect neutral ground for everyone to buy into,' he says.

Mel stressed how she and Graeme were doing their best to build new family traditions, but also keeping the old families' memories alive.

The ambitious project has three floors and was described as Graeme as an 'upside down' home which makes use of the limited space they have to play with on the plot. He revealed the girls' bedrooms would be in the basement, his and Mel's bedroom would sit on the ground floor and the living, kitchen and dining area would be on the first floor.

'We're a modern family, if you like, and it's a modern house - a shamelessly modern house,' Graeme said.

The unfinished basement in architect Graeme and graphic designer Mel's home

The modern house, which is covered in red cladding, was built on the site of twin garages

The interior of the home is still quite bare as the family had not moved in by the end of the episode

After a positive start on the project, it was blighted by issues in building the basement when their first contractor pulled out. Once the couple finally found a new contractor, the dig began - but the team ran into lots of problems.

Eventually, just when the finish line was in sight, concerns about the basement came back to haunt the couple after a test on its concrete walls raised fears about the amount of cement in them and their longevity.

'I'm trying not to be too down about it, but I'm really distraught about this,' Graeme explained. Mel said she was 'hugely disappointed' and 'worried'.

A modern staircase leads from the ground floor, where Mel and Graeme's bedroom will be, up to the living area on the first floor

The kitchen is kitted out with red cabinets and work surfaces to match the red exterior of the home

Viewers expressed their dislike of the house on X and questioned the couple's financial decisions

Kevin's final visit to the couple's home in September revealed that it was built, watertight and covered in red cladding.

Although the couple were pleased with the house overall, Graeme admitted the unfinished basement was a 'void'.

Sitting around the table at the end of the episode, Graeme told Kevin: 'At the moment we can afford to finish the project, but not to pay for the remedial costs of the basement.

'It's a question mark as to how we fund that right now. We don't honestly have the answer to that.'

Graeme revealed the total cost of the project has exceeded their initial budget of 450,000 and is now looking to be more like 550,000 in terms of the mortgage.

Despite having had a bumpy ride on the build, Mel believes it has been worth it to live in their dream home.

She said: 'I'm totally in love with this building, and we are at one with this building now.'

However, viewers weren't so keen, and took to social media to voice their dislike of the big red building.

Likening Graeme and Mel's home to a red Monopoly hotel, one person posted a picture of one of the plastic tokens used to secure lucrative London hotspots for profit in the board game, and joked: 'I'll take a hotel in Hackney please.'

Another said she could understand if the couple's neighbours were annoyed by the design, which they said 'sticks out like fugly sore thumb'.

Others mocked the couple after they were left without the funds to finish the project - pointing to the fact they took a trip to Morocco to pick out floor tiles for the property.

'And you wonder why they overspent,' one said, adding in another post that they had 'no sympathy' for the couple.

Some people wondered how the sketches for the house ever got over the line in the first place. One person said: 'How planning permission was granted for that monstrosity is beyond belief.'
The recent European outbreak of bed bugs has reignited that age-old debate: how often should we really be changing our bedding? After all, we all love that feeling of slipping into clean, fresh sheets after a long day - and we certainly want to avoid attracting any tiny, bloodthirsty critters.

The answer it seems, at least according to experts, is more often than we think - and definitely more than we want to carry out this, most mundane of all domestic tasks.

While most of us would consider ourselves to be the pinnacle of personal hygiene when it comes to our bodies, many of us are guilty of being much more lenient about the cleanliness of our bed, which we fester in for eight hours every night.

The common recommendation is to change bed sheets once a week, however according to a 2022 YouGov survey, less than a third of Britons are managing to do the switchover this frequently. The largest proportion of the UK claim to wash their sheets every two weeks.

Young people were the least likely to keep up with good hygiene in the bedroom, confessing to waiting a month or more before changing their sheets.

While many may be alarmed by this - they will be even more so when they discover that for those who sweat excessively or, worse yet, already have a bed bug situation at hand, the recommendation by experts is to change your sheets twice a week.

But why do we procrastinate so much when it comes to this particular domestic task, especially with the rise in fear of bed bugs, when we regularly carry out other, less important chores like clockwork?

What do YOU think? How often do YOU think it's acceptable to go without changing your bed sheets? Are you someone who is more likely to put off changing your bedding than other cleaning tasks? Join the debate in the comments.
A retired doctor has revealed what the final moments before death look like, in a bid to help people 'tackle the fear' of passing on.

Cheshire-born doctor Dr Kathryn Mannix, 64 - who spent 30 years as a palliative care doctor - appeared on BBC Woman's Hour alongside host Emma Barnett, to discuss her new short animation Dying for Beginners.

In a snippet posted to Instagram, Kathryn broke down the process, and what happens to your body, which she compared to an 'old mobile phone' that fails to charge.

In a bid to dispel some of the fears around death, she said towards the end of life a lot of people will be unconscious.

'It's not a frightening mental state to be in, it's a state of not knowing anything,' she said.

Dr Kathryn Mannix (pictured), 64, appeared on an episode of BBC Woman's Hour to discuss her new short animation 'Dying for Beginners'

Answering Emma's request to explain the 'process' behind dying, she said: 'The first thing that's noticeable is just that the body starts to run out of energy, almost like when you've got an old mobile phone and the battery won't stay charged.

'And the charger is sleep. More than food, more than drink. And in fact a lot of dying people don't feel very hungry and that's fine. They're not dying because they're not eating. They're not eating because their body is dying.

'So as time goes by people gradually need more sleep to give them intervals of enough energy to think and do what they can. And gradually people become not just asleep, but unconscious.

'Now they don't recognise the difference. It's not a frightening mental state to be in, it's a state of not knowing anything'.

The expert explained that as your body enters its final moments, you become unconscious 'all of the time' as life ebbs away - a far cry from the drama often depicted in Hollywood movies.

She also addressed the so-called death rattle, laboured breathing that can sound distressing.

She explained: 'The brain runs reflex breathing patterns that move backwards and forwards between quite deep breathing that gradually becomes more shallow.

'And then back to the beginning again, and backwards and forwards between periods of quite slow breathing, more rapid breathing, back to slow breathing again.

'Now if you haven't seen that before, you might think that the person who is breathing, perhaps fast but shallow, is struggling to breathe or is panting or is uncomfortable.'

Dr Kathryn described this as a sign of 'deep unconsciousness', and urged others to take note of the symptoms as they creep in.

The retired palliative care doctor revealed what the final moments before death look like, in a bid to help people 'tackle the fear' of passing on

During the interview, Kathryn broke down the process behind your last breath, including what happens to your body, which she compared to an 'old mobile phone' that fails to charge

She also raised awareness about the facts of death, hoping for it to be seen as 'ordinary', as opposed to 'frightening', adding that 'it's a state of not knowing anything'

The expert spoke with host Emma Barnett in the latest episode of BBC Woman's Hour

'This person is quite safe,' she added. 'And then at the very end of somebody's life there will usually be one of those slow breathing phases.

'There will be a breath out that just doesn't have another breath in after it, which is not at all what Hollywood has lead us all to expect.'

She said that knowing these facts will not make death any less sad for people's loved ones, but she hopes it will make it seem less scary.

'To take away the fear, I think is the mission I'm on,' she concluded.

Kathryn qualified as a cognitive behaviour therapist in 1993, before starting the UK's first CBT clinic exclusively for palliative care patients.

Last year, she wrote Listen:How to Find the Words for Tender Conversation - a book about having honest conversations around death.
King Charles appeared in high spirits as he greeted leading figures from British African and Caribbean communities at Buckingham Palace - and earlier today also gleefully greeted patients at a hospice in Norfolk.

The royal, 74, threw his head back in laughter as he enjoyed chatting with guests at a reception ahead of the Powerlist Black Excellence Awards - which honours the most influential people from the community.

This year's top ten include hit podcaster Steven Bartlett, John Lewis Partnership Chair Dame Sharon White, former Apprentice winner Dean Forbes and Baron Simon Woolley - the first Black man to head an Oxbridge college.

One snap saw the monarch delightfully greeting Baroness Amos - who was last year appointed Lady of the Garter by the late Queen Elizabeth - and other photos showed him in deep conversation with esteemed attendees.

Elsewhere, he also spoke with Baroness Scotland of Asthal.

One snap saw the monarch delightfully greeting Baroness Amos - who was last year appointed Lady of the Garter by the late Queen Elizabeth

Charles opted for a chic light grey suit, adorned with a dusky blue tie.

He appeared relaxed and cheerful, holding onto a drink while mingling with others at the event this afternoon.

The Powerlist has been around since 2007, and is primarily sent to schools, universities and corporate organisations to celebrate the talent of young people of African and African Caribbean heritage.

The awards will be held tomorrow, and include flashy sponsors such as J.P. Morgan, pwc, Meta and Google.

Earlier this afternoon, the King made a visit for the opening of Priscilla Bacon Hospice in Norfolk.

The facilities have been specially designed to allow patients to enjoy the surrounding landscape, working in partnership with Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust.

Charles looked to be in peals of laughter as he met young patient Rebecca Turner and her family, who were all sporting paper crowns.

The monarch delightedly picked up one for himself, looking equal parts moved and excited.

Earlier this afternoon, the King made a visit for the opening of Priscilla Bacon Hospice in Norfolk. Pictured with patient Rebecca Turner, centre

Charles looked to be in peals of laughter as he met young patient Rebecca Turner and her family, who were all sporting paper crowns

King Charles appeared in high spirits as he greeted leading figures from British African and Caribbean communities at Buckingham Palace today

Charles also chatted with Baroness Scotland of Asthal, pictured second from right, during the event today

The royal, 74, threw his head back in laughter as he enjoyed chatting with guests at a reception ahead of the Powerlist Black Excellence Awards

Charles opted for a light grey suit, teamed with a dusky blue tie. He appeared delighted to chat with guests

The Powerlist has been around since 2007, and is primarily sent to schools, universities and corporate organisations to celebrate the talent of young people of African and African Caribbean heritage

The King looked in great spirits as he made his way around the event and chatted to guests

He appeared relaxed and cheerful, holding onto a drink while mingling with others at the event this afternoon

Charles appeared in high spirits while he chatted with guests at Buckingham Palace for a reception today

According to the Eastern Daily Press, the royal also had a happy encounter with a 12-year-old Labradoodle - Agnes - who is a therapy dog.

Charles laughed as she licked his hand and pet her.

The outlet also detailed his meeting with Bernard Godding, 81 - an outpatient - who thanked him for the visit.

It's a jolly good place Norfolk, isn't it,' the King replied.

It comes as earlier this week, Charles was seen sweetly reminiscing over a photograph of Treetops - where the then-Princess Elizabeth was when King George VI died in his sleep in the early hours of February 6, 1952.

It was here, in this Kenyan location, that she began her historic 70-year reign.

The King was accompanied by Queen Camilla, 76, as they viewed part of the Royal Collection at a reception for the Kenyan diaspora in the UK, as was filmed looking at the photograph and appearing to say it was 'extraordinary'.

Charles enjoyed chatting with Rebecca and her family as he visited patients at the hospice today

Charles and Rebecca both laughed as they chatted, with the patient and her family sporting paper crowns

King Charles looked to be in a great mood during today's hospice visit as he chatted with patients

Charles looked to be in a great mood as he met with patients at the hospice in Norfolk earlier today

According to the Eastern Daily Press , the royal also had a happy encounter with a 12-year-old Labradoodle - Agnes - who is a therapy dog

Charles laughed as she licked his hand and pet her during his visit to the hospice in Norfolk today

Charles looked excited by a drinks trolley at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge hospice he visited in Norwich

The outlet also detailed his meeting with Bernard Godding, 81 - an outpatient - who thanked him for the visit

The King and Bernard enjoyed a chat as they spoke with one another at the state-of-the-art hospice

Charles was in high spirits as he chatted his patients today, looking to be in peals of laughter during his conversations

Bernard is an outpatient at the state-of-the-art palliative care unit in Norfolk, which Charles visited today

The pair sat together and enjoyed a chat, while King Charles was full of compliments for the county

Charles enjoyed meeting Bernard whilst attending the opening of the Priscilla Bacon Lodge hospice in Norwich

The facilities have been specially designed to allow patients to enjoy the surrounding landscape, working in partnership with Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust

Hosted at Buckingham Palace, the event highlighted the Royal Family's long standing connection to the Kenyan nation.

The event was held to celebrate the warm relationship between the two countries and the strong and dynamic partnership they continue to forge ahead of their Majesties state visit to Kenya.

Treetops - Kenya's oldest safari lodge - was an elaborate treehouse on the edge of a watering hole in Aberdare National Park.

The property was rebuilt after being burned down by guerillas a few years later, but when the Queen and Prince Philip stayed, their accommodation was a comfortable three-bedroom shack, with a small servants quarter, built in the upper branches of a giant fig tree.

However, in 2021, it was forced to close after nearly 90 years of welcoming royalty.

Elizabeth was not originally destined to become Queen. However, she became heir presumptive after her father, King George VI, ascended to the throne following the abdication of his older brother, King Edward VIII.

Edward had given up the throne to wed American divorcee Wallis Simpson, as marrying a woman who had separated from her husband was deemed incompatible with his role as head of the Church of England.

During the afternoon before hearing the news of King George VI's death, Princess Elizabeth spent the day with her camera snapping charging rhinos and a waterbuck goring a rival to death from her elevated vantage point.

Jim Corbett - her armed escort and after whom the Corbett National Park in India is named - later told that when she was invited to come for tea, the princess requested taking it on the balcony, saying: 'I don't want to miss one moment of this.'

In the Treetops logbook, Corbett penned: 'For the first time in the history of the world, a young girl climbed into the tree as a princess and climbed down as a queen.'
Angelina Jolie's very close friendship with Russian oligarch Yuri Shefler - the man who has been accused of conspiring with the starlet against her ex-husband Brad Pitt - has been revealed in an email sent by the vodka baron, in which he invites the A-list actress to spend the night at his Scottish castle.

Shefler, 56, told the Maleficent alum, 48, that she should come and visit him at his lavish home at the Tulchan estate in the Speyside region of Scotland - months after she signed over her half of the vineyard she previously owned with Pitt to him for $8.5 million, a move that launched a major war between the former couple, which is still raging on.

After Jolie sold her share of their French winery, Chateau Miraval, to Shefler in October 2021, Pitt sued her for breach of contract, and has since accused Shefler's company of 'attempting a hostile takeover of the wine business.'

Now, an email exchange between Shefler and Jolie, which was included in a series of new court documents filed by lawyers for the Fight Club star, 59, shows just how strong their bond is - with the vodka baron accusing Pitt of trying to 'sabotage' their business relationship.

Angelina Jolie's close friendship with Yuri Shefler (left) - the man who has been accused of conspiring with the starlet against her ex-husband Brad Pitt (right) - has been revealed

The vodka baron invited the actress and her kids to spend the night at his Scottish castle - months after she signed over her half of the vineyard she previously owned with Pitt to him

After Jolie sold her share of their winery, Chateau Miraval, to Shefler in 2021, Pitt sued her for breach of contract, and has accused Shefler's company of 'attempting a hostile takeover'

In an email sent to Jolie by Shefler in May 2022 (seen), the vodka baron accused Pitt of trying to 'sabotage' their deal, before inviting the actress and her children to his Scottish castle

In the message, dated May 25, 2022, which was first revealed by Radar Online, the business mogul told Jolie that she and her six kids were welcome to visit him at his abode, and encouraged the star to 'reach out' to him if she ever needed his help.

Its not known whether Jolie ever went on holiday to the castle.

'With this letter, I would like to thank you for the deal we have done,' the businessman - who purchased his Scottish estate for $30.3 million back in 2017 - wrote in the email.

'I am happy with the deal despite the current disagreements with Mr. Pitt in regards to his attempts to sabotage and avoid signing shareholders agreement.

'I am however hopeful that we will eventually become trustworthy partners and will be enjoying mutual business.

'Should you at any time require any assistance from me, please do reach out at [number redacted].

'My invitation to visit my Tulchan estate in Scotland remains open for you and your children at any time. Warmest regards.'

Jolies office did not return DailyMail.com's requests for comment.

'With this letter, I would like to thank you for the deal we have done,' Shefler wrote to Jolie. 'My invitation to visit my estate in Scotland remains open for you and your children at any time'

Shefler purchased the estate for $30.3 million back in 2017 - when it was believed to be the most expensive sporting lodge in Scotland

Pitt and Jolie purchased the vineyard, located in the south of France, together in 2008 for $27 million, and became 50/50 owners of the property as well as its wine making enterprise

Jolie sold her part to Tenute del Mondo - the wine division of the Stoli group, owned by Russian businessman Shefler - in October 2021 for $67 million

Pitt and Jolie, who split in 2016, purchased the vineyard, located in the South of France, together in 2008 for around $27 million, and became 50/50 owners of the property as well as its wine making enterprise.

Jolie sold her part to Tenute del Mondo - the wine division of the Stoli group, owned by Russian businessman Shefler - in October 2021 for $67 million.

Afterwards, Pitt claimed that his ex had made the move without informing him, and accused her of trying to 'intentionally harm' the business' reputation and 'undermine' his investment while 'unjustly enriching herself.'

Shefler added in the email: 'I am happy with the deal despite the current disagreements with Mr. Pitt in regards to his attempts to sabotage and avoid signing shareholders agreement'

'Brad - through significant financial investment and years of sweat equity - has built a highly successful family-owned business,' his lawyers wrote in documents at the time.

'Miraval has correspondingly grown massively in value since 2008 and is now worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

'Angelina pursued and then consummated the purported sale in secret, purposely keeping Brad in the dark, and knowingly violating his contractual rights.'

In a leaked email obtained by Vanity Fair, however, Jolie allegedly told Pitt on January 21, 2021, that she had plans to sell her stake in the company because she didn't want to be involved in 'a business that is centered around alcohol' or revisit the place that 'marked the beginning of the end of their family.'

The outlet reported that Pitt planned on buying Jolie's shares from her, but after she refused to sign an NDA that would prevent her from publicly speaking about their infamous plane argument, the negotiation fell apart.

A source told the publication that Pitt wanted the NDA in effect 'to ensure she doesnt damage the value of [the winery] after being paid for it.'

In his suit, however, Pitt alleged that she backed out from their deal because she was angry about the custody ruling involving their kids, and that he found out that she had sold her shares to Stoli Group through the media.

He said they had a 'mutual and binding commitment' to the $160 million business and agreed not to sell up without the other's permission, but Jolie said that 'no such agreement ever existed.'

Pitt has claimed that his ex had made the move without informing him, and accused her of trying to 'intentionally harm' the business' reputation and 'undermine' his investment

He said they had a 'mutual and binding commitment' to the $160 million business and agreed not to sell up without the other's permission, but Angelina said that 'it didn't exist'

He also claimed that Stoli Group has since 'attempted a hostile takeover of the wine business.'

In response, her lawyers stated, 'Still today, and in the seven years since that fateful plane ride, Brad personally has never publicly denied that it happened.

'The reality is that Pitt refused to complete the Miraval sale with Angelina unless she agreed to being silenced about the abuse.'

Back in July, Jolie's investment company Nouvel filed a $350 million lawsuit against Brad, claiming that he 'wasted the companys assets' and 'spent millions' of dollars on 'vanity projects' like swimming pool renovations and building a recording studio on the property.

They accused him of 'looting' the wine business and using it as his 'personal cashbox.'

'Incensed that Angelina sold Nouvel to Stoli rather than him, Brad has acted like a petulant child, refusing to treat Nouvel as an equal partner in the business,' court documents stated.

Weeks later, there were hopes of peace when it was revealed that Pitt and Jolie had agreed to mediation.

However, Shefler shows no signs of wanting to give up the fight, and there have been numerous savage exchanges between the Pitt-Shefler legal teams since then.

Disputes run over matters including how documents have been served on Shefler, and there have been multiple filings about jurisdiction.

Shefler has said that the transaction to sell Miraval, a French vineyard, was Europe-based and so covered by different discovery rules.

Team Pitt, meanwhile, complained that the tycoon is 'asking the court to bless his obstructionism.'

They add that the Stoli parties have 'concealed critical evidence highly relevant to the courts jurisdiction over them.'

The latest filings allege that Shefler has been 'evasive,' with Pitt's lawyers adding: 'He may be a Russian oligarch but he must play by the same basic rules as any other litigant in California.'

Included in the recent documents is a message from Shefler to Pitt, dated December 11, 2021 - just a few weeks after it was announced that his Stoli group had bought Jolies stake.

Shefler was once hit with a absentia legal action for organizing a gang, illegal use of trademarks, and smuggling

He was married to Victoria's Secret model Tatiana Kovylina (left), but they split in 2021, and he has since been linked to Miss World 2008 Ksenia Sukhinova (right)

In it, he said he was 'sorry to catch you by surprise by entering your Miraval Empire.'

This was followed by the Russian urging Pitt to focus on his 'artistic projects.. while I get on with my passion  business.'

Sheflers side, for their part, have accuse Mondo Bongo (the company controlled by Pitt which owns half of Miraval) of 'feigning' a desire to resolve the dispute.

They say that a proposal of who should manage the holding company would enable 'Brad Pitt and his acolytes to continue to gut Chateau Miraval, which Your Court cannot allow to happen, while it is Your Courts duty to continue to offer maximum protection to those who are suffering most.'

Shefler was born into a Russian Jewish family in Oryol, 230 miles south of Moscow, as Yuri Alexeyevich Yurasov, later changing his name to Yuri Anatolyevich Shabalin and finally settling on Yuri Viktorovich Shefler.

He served as a conscript in the Red Army late in the Soviet era, and was a dad by the age of 20.

The vodka tsar graduated from the prestigious Plekhanov Institute in Moscow, studying economics in the rollercoaster 1990s, at the same time as running a successful retail and restaurant business.

From 1995 to 1997 he was chairman of Vnukovo Airlines, a spin-off from old Soviet mega-carrier Aeroflot.

In 1997 he switched to Soyuzplodoimport (SPI), which makes the legendary Stolichnaya vodka and 380 other brands.

In the 2000s, Shefler was accused of making death threats against Vladimir Loginov, an Agriculture Ministry official who had been trusted with the vodka trademarks.

Shefler left Russia for Latvia before Vladimir Putin's security forces had time to detain him, and initially operated his businesses from the Baltic state where he had production facilities.

While safely out of Russia  one of the first to escape from Putin's clampdown on business enemies  he was hit with in absentia legal action for organizing a gang, illegal use of trademarks, and smuggling.

He was also charged with threatening to kill Loginov, and pursued over his use from abroad of the Stolichnaya label and other brands.

Shefler then moved to Britain where he obtained a UK passport, while also securing Israeli citizenship.

He thrived and rose to billionaire status and became the owner of Serene, one of the longest and most expensive superyachts in the world, which was leased by Bill Gates for $5 million a week.

In 2017, he purchased the most expensive hunting estate in Scotland  Tulchan  which has been valued at $32 million and is where he invited Jolie to come and visit.

He also keeps luxury homes in in Surrey, near London, at St. Jean Cap Ferrat in the south of France, and Jurmala, the Baltic beach resort close to the Latvian capital, Riga, and a favored bolt hole for Russians.

Shefler has been married at least three times and has fathered seven kids.

His most recent marriage was to Victoria's Secret model Tatiana Kovylina, 41. However, they reportedly split in 2021, and he has since been linked to Ksenia Sukhinova, 35, who was Miss Russia 2007, and Miss World 2008.
The Crown has been branded 'disrespectful' and 'tacky' online after featuring Princess Diana's 'ghost' in the first trailer for the sixth and final series of the hit Netflix drama.

Released today, the teaser shows sensationalised conversations between Diana and the late Queen, a watery-eyed King Charles and a 'final' phone call with William and his mother.

It has sparked divided opinion on social media, with some demanding that the hit series let the late Princess of Wales 'rest in peace'.

'What a load of rubbish this series has become,' one wrote. 'Shame on you.' A second called the show 'so d*mn tacky and disrespectful'.

'Never watched this series and the 'ghost of Diana' certainly wouldn't tempt me to start now,' they added.

A new trailer for the sixth and final series of Netflix's The Crown has been released. Pictured, Diana's 'ghost' speaking to Imelda Staunton's Queen

'The Crown had me until I heard about the ghost scenes,' a third penned. 'At least pretend to be a docudrama and not a ghost story. She is gone, let her rest in peace!!!'

A commenter said: 'I'll get some peace when this d*mn series is all over with!' 'Nah, we good,' another dismissed.

Elsewhere, a viewer remarked: 'They better make this last series more political about the big historical stories of the day (as in the earlier series) and not just a soap opera like the last one.'

However, many were also quick to praise Elizabeth Debicki's performance as they expressed their excitement for part one of the series, which comes out on November 16.

'Elizabeth Debicki truly deserves all the appreciation for playing Diana,' one YouTube commenter said. 'Emma Corrin slayed as the younger Diana too and now she's carrying the torch.'

A second gushed: 'The way this trailer focused mostly on Princess Diana showcases that she's the Royal Family icon that's absolutely timeless and will never be forgotten. I was born right after she passed away yet I missed her so much.'

Another said they're 'grateful' that the series 'will open upcoming generation's eyes to reality of a woman who wanted nothing but love and acceptance'.

'Every second of this trailer sent a chill down my spine,' they added. 'I was bawling my eyes out at the end. Princess Diana will forever be in our hearts.'

Her Majesty, played by Imelda, appears sombre during one scene shared in the teaser clip

Happy times: During the trailer, scenes play of the Princess singing during a car drive with a young Prince William (pictured together)

The teaser also shows Diana having difficulties dealing with media attention following the end of her marriage to Charles (Dominic West, pictured), the then Prince of Wales

Reaction: The Crown has been branded 'disrespectful' and 'tacky' online after featuring Princess Diana's 'ghost' in the first trailer for the sixth and final series of the hit Netflix drama

Netflix bosses are set to prompt controversy with the first part of their final series of the drama as the trailer reveals it will portray the royal family's most intimate moments in the run-up and aftermath of the crash that killed Diana in 1997.

Elizabeth Debicki, 33, returns for her second season playing the late Princess of Wales and is seen having a 'final' phone call with a 15-year-old William, played by Rufus Kampa, 17, before the fatal Paris crash.

William asks Diana if she is okay before she morbidly responds: 'It's all just been a bit mad recently,' before there is a flash of bulbs and audiences see her stepping into the black Mercedes that would drive her to her death.

The crash is not explicitly revealed in the cryptic trailer but audiences glimpse a shot of Diana clutching onto Dodi Fayeds hand in the back of the car.

A tight-lipped Queen, played by Imelda Staunton, 67, sensationally declares to Diana, Youve finally succeeded in turning this house upside down. Its nothing less than a revolution,' despite her late Majesty never revealing how she felt about her daughter-in-law.

Another scene shows Charles, played by Dominic West, on the phone after the Princess's death as he grimly declares the funeral, Will be the biggest thing that any of us have ever seen.

The funeral, which was not shown in the trailer, was filmed at a disused RAF base five miles outside Bicester, Oxfordshire.

Scenes will show Princes William and Harry walking alongside King Charles, the Duke of Edinburgh and Earl Spencer in the procession of mourners behind the coffin of his mother.

The first four episodes will heavily feature the young princes as teenagers during the summer of 1997, when they split their time between their mother, who is with the Fayeds on board a yacht in the South of France and their father at Balmoral.

Viewers will also see the Queen being caught off-guard by the vast outpouring of grief following Dianas death.

The shows will also feature Mohammed Al Fayed, who died earlier this year, processing the loss of his son while being shunned by the royals as Prince Williams returns to Eton school where he struggles to deal with his mothers death.

Fans will have to wait until December 14 for the final six episodes which Netflix insiders say will be more jolly.

The scenes will show Prince William and Kate Middleton meeting at St Andrews University and the final programme will show King Charles and Queen Camilla - played by Olivia Williams - marrying in April 2005.

Today's trailer, shared on social media by the streaming service, centres on Diana and her tragic death after the fatal Paris car crash in 1997.

Playing Queen Elizabeth II in the final season, Imelda's character is seen telling Diana's 'ghost' that she's 'finally succeeded in turning this house upside down'.

However, many were also quick to praise Elizabeth Debicki's performance as they expressed their excitement for part one of the series, which comes out on November 16

Netflix recently released new images to promote the final series of the hit drama - including a poster (above) showcasing the three actors who played Queen Elizabeth II in The Crown standing side-by-side

The trailer opens with Elizabeth Debicki's Diana playing the piano, while explaining in the voiceover: 'I don't really understand how I ended up here. Dashing around... and losing sight of myself in the process. I think that's been the story of my whole life.'

It also shows Diana having difficulties dealing with media attention following the end of her marriage to Charles (Dominic West), the then Prince of Wales.

A royal advisor, while flicking through newspaper front pages dominated by Diana, then tells The Queen: 'I'm afraid, Your Majesty, interest in the princess's private life is unlikely to die down any time soon.'

To which Her Majesty responds: 'All one wants is for that girl to find peace', while scenes play of the Princess singing during a car drive with a young Prince William.

Her eldest son, played by Rufus Kampa during his teenage years, asks: 'Mommy, you OK?'. The princess replies: 'I'm OK, it's just... It has all been a bit mad recently.'

Diana is then filmed receiving roses from lover Dodi Fayed (Khalid Abdalla) alongside a note, reading: 'Paris next week?' before the clip skips to the princess in a car surrounded by photographers.

The final moments of the trailer appear to look at the aftermath of Diana and Dodi's deaths following a car crash in a Paris tunnel in August 1997.

In the teaser, Dominic as Prince Charles can be heard saying the Queen should 'be mother to the nation' as there is talk of silence from Buckingham Palace.

He adds: 'You've seen the images on the television, Diana gave people what they needed, all over the world in their thousands, and they adored her for it.'

The trailer ends with the line: 'This is going to be the biggest thing that any of us have ever seen.'
Aldi shoppers are sharing their one item from the supermarket they always buy on their grocery shops.

Customers raved about the things they always look out for - from Choceur chocolate blocks to the popular potato gratin and even smoked herring paste.

An Aldi newcomer asked loyal shoppers of the retailer what one item they would recommend she buy, drawing in hundreds of replies.

For dinners on the go, many were quick to recommend the Spanakopita which was once called the store's 'best kept secret'.

'I second this. For a lazy frozen meal, it's fantastic!' a mum said and a second replied: 'Agreed! Always need one of these in the freezer, the kids get so excited by this low effort, low cost dinner'.

Australia shoppers are sharing the one thing they always buy from Aldi. Many loved the popular Spanakopita which was once called the store's 'best kept secret'

Another said the loved the 'absolutely insanely good' Seasons Pride $4.99 Potato Gratin which was just voted as one of the winners at Aldi's annual People's Picks Awards

'The Greek boneless roast chicken. Delish and makes for a great lazy dinner. I have it in a warmed wrap with a Greek salad and tzatziki with a side of mini roast potatoes or oven chips,' one user said.

'I love the butter chicken marinated chicken thighs. So tender. Sear in a grill pan for eight minutes, then eat with the coriander chutney they have for $3 in the special items aisle. Stock up on the chutney. I haven't seen it for at least six months, it's just come back,' a second explained.

Another said the loved the 'absolutely insanely good' Seasons Pride $4.99 Potato Gratin which was just voted as one of the winners at Aldi's annual People's Picks Awards.

A regular shopper said the Persian feta was 'seriously good' while another recommended the sourdough bread with goat's cheese spread.

Many were keen on Aldi chocolate saying they prefer it over big brands from Woolies and Coles.

'Their chocolate is amazing. Especially the mini blocks of Hazelnut Creme. Underrated,' one woman said.

'I buy the Choceur dark chocolate to cut up for choc chips to bake with,' a second said.

One woman said the mini Choceur mini Hazelnut Creme bars were 'underrated and another said the food Envy Tiramisu will be the best $5 you've ever spent

Other treats customers loved were the Caramelt biscuits, strawberry wafers, dark cherry yoghurt and Kapiti passion fruit and honey mini ice creams

Australian shoppers share their number one favourite Aldi buys Urban Eats Greed Spanakopita Spinach and cheese

Kapiti passionfruit and honey mini ice creams

Choceur Hazelnut Creme mini chocolate bars

Seasons Pride potato gratin

Ocean Royale Frozen Salt & Pepper Squid

Ready, Set...Cook! Sriracha chicken bites

Lyttos Greek Style Natural Yogurt

Logix Platinum Dishwashing Tablets

Food Envy Italian Family Desserts Tiramisu

Passionate About Food Specially Selected beetroot and goat's cheese pizza

Mantovani Italian mini panettone 100g

One Road South Australia and Heathcote Shiraz

Deli Originals Fresh Traditional Style Hommus 1kg Advertisement

'Choceur! Incredible. The dark (which is really not super dark) is my favourite,' a third agreed and a third said: 'Its 10/10. Genuinely devastating that it doesn't come in the big blocks.

Other treats customers loved were the Caramelt biscuits, strawberry wafers, dark cherry yoghurt and Melting Moment shortbread biscuits.

'The Kapiti passion fruit and honey mini ice creams. Thank me later,' someone said.

'The crepes! Pop them in your sandwich press, count to 60. Amaziiiiiiing!' a second suggested.

'Do yourself a favour and get the 'Food Envy' Tiramisu. Will probably be the best $5/$6 you've spent in a very long time!' wrote a third.

'I like their salt and pepper squid, and Sriracha chicken bites - stick them in the air fryer,' one user commented.

In the dairy aisle the Persian feta was a favourite as well as the 'creamy' Greek yoghurt that comes in a 'huge' 2kg tub

It wasn't just food people were raving about with one woman saying : 'This isn't as exciting as the other suggestions, but don't forget to stock up on their dishwashing tablets'

In the dairy aisle, the Persian feta was a favourite as well as the 'creamy' Greek yoghurt that comes in a 'huge' 2kg tub.

It wasn't just food people were raving about with one woman saying : 'This isn't as exciting as the other suggestions, but don't forget to stock up on their dishwashing tablets.'

'Was going to say the dish liquid for washing dishes by hand. Also the mould killer. and the toilet paper,' a second added.

More suggestions included the Aldi smoked herring paste, honey roasted cashews, beetroot and goat's cheese pizza and caramel popcorn.

A shopper also recommended: 'Mini panettones. The full sized ones go stale before you can finish it but the minis are much more manageable.'

'Frozen spinach and feta gozleme. Shallow fry it and cut into slices. I like to have it with sour cream or Greek yoghurt. Delicious,' one person suggested.
Australians are flocking to Costco to buy $48 white sneakers from Puma

Shoppers are overjoyed after spotting the 'perfect' pair of white sneakers on sale for less than $50 - and the 'comfortable' shoes are flying off the shelves.

A woman from Sydney's Marsden Park was recently strolling through her local Costco when she came across $47.99 Puma sneakers.

The sporty buy was slashed by more than 50 per cent - with other retailers selling the same pair of Smash Platform v3s for $110.

'My little score at Costco yesterday,' she shared in a post alongside a photo of the shoes.

'I am in love and they're super comfortable. They also had black, but white for the win! Early birthday present for me.'

Shoppers are overjoyed after spotting the 'perfect' pair of white sneakers on sale for less than $50 - and the 'comfortable' shoes are flying off the shelves

A black version of the shoe is also available in-stores for the same price.

Shoppers seem keen on getting their hands on the popular buy ahead of summer and the holiday season.

But the catch of a Costco bargain is the warehouse's annual $60 fee that often deters shoppers from snapping up other budget buys.

Those who bite the bullet also reap the rewards - and thousands around Australia can't get enough of the 15 store locations across the country.

Parents of larger families have reported slashing hundreds of dollars off their grocery bills by buying in bulk at Costco.

A woman from Sydney's Marsden Park was recently strolling through her local Costco when she came across $47.99 Puma sneakers

The sporty buy was slashed by more than 50 per cent - with other retailers selling the same pair of Smash Platform v3s for $110

Many shared their delight at the cheap Puma sneakers - and vowed to visit their local store before it sold out.

'Awesome bargain! I've recently bought Puma shoes and I reckon they're the best,' one said. 'I wish we had a Costco close.'

'I love Costco - and those shoes look great! I must go this week,' a man wrote.

'I need white shoes ASAP,' a woman said.

'Puma are so comfortable! If you're unable to go to a Costco, TKMaxx also sell these for $60 (in my local) along with other brands,' another shared.
A young woman has recorded what she claims was 'an uncomfortable first date' where she was told she wasn't good looking enough to have a free meal - and should offer to pay.

The date went on to explain she would need to slide her card under the table - to make it look like he had paid as he 'has a reputation to uphold'.

The video, made by Winta Zesu was looks to be staged but appears to be reflective of the dating scene in New York City, where she lives and works.

Some men took offence at the video, commenting to tell her it was an unfair take on dating culture, before being savaged by women watching the video.

The video begins with the 21-year-old eating her meal, before being chastised by her date for 'eating too quickly'.

'The food's not going anywhere, are you enjoying this date or not,' the man says off camera.

A young woman has recorded a very uncomfortable first-date where she was told she wasn't good looking enough to have a free meal - and should even offer to pay

He then questioned if she actually even liked Italian food before telling her she would be paying for the meal.

When she tells him that she 'didn't bring her card' and couldn't pay for the meal he called her un-lady like and said it was bad manners to expect the man to pay.

'I thought you were rich. You told me you come from a wealthy family,' he added.

The video finishes with her asking him to stop.

'I am trying to eat and leave.'

Most people believe the vide was staged but accurate - and it caused an explosive debate to unfold.

'I know this is a skit, and I know this guy is a tool. But there's is some base to what he's trying to convey. A lot of girls really do just accept dates to go out and get free food,' one man said.

'It's very hurtful and dehumanizing for a guy to really like you and have to sit through a whole dinner that he knows you only showed up to because he was gonna pay,' he added.

He explained he had been on a date where a woman obviously wasn't interested and left when the entrees arrived - wishing her well - and explained he wasn't going to sit around and watch her eat for free.

But others had a different view - with many calling the man toxic and telling her to 'run'.

'Everything that came out of his mouth was wrong- please tell me this is stated because that sounded like toxic masculinity at its worst,' one woman said.

'This sounds like my toxic ex. He made me pay for everything for two years and told me how lucky I should feel to be with him,' said another.

'I once went on a date where the guy told me his card did not work and that he would send me the money back but he never did lmao. To all girls out there, never pay for a dude if he is not your man. Total waste of money,' warned another.

Some praised her.

'Boss moment 'can you stop talking I'm trying to eat.' Absolute assassination to his ego that was unfortunately necessary.'

But other women said they would have left much earlier on in the meal.
Bunnings Warehouse is under fire over one of its very Australian Christmas decorations: Outlaw Santa.

The rogue version of Mr Claus bears a striking resemblance to iconic Australian bushranger Ned Kelly.

He sits upon a chestnut pony and wears a helmet very similar to that made famous by the back country bandit.

As it is Santa the $99 inflatable figure also has a sack of toys and a Santa hat made famous by the jolly man in red.

Bunnings Warehouse is under fire over one of its very Australian Christmas decorations: Outlaw Santa

It isn't clear if the sack of toys is stolen loot - similar to the Grinch - or to be given to good boys and girls in a father Christmas style.

What is clear is that many people are furious over the quirky decoration.

'It is a no from me it is losing the goodness of Christmas,' one Santa fan said.

'No it is tacky and in poor taste. It is one thing to include him in our history and another to celebrate him in this way. I think it is insulting,' said another.

A third echoed the sentiment labelling the Christmas inflatable a 'stupid idea'.

Other pointed out that the bushranger was a murderer, specifically a police killer and shouldn't be celebrated.

But others thought it was fine.

'I would call him Neddy, I like him,' one person said.

'Ned is a big part of our culture, he has just as much right to be part of Christmas as the kebabs and octopus! I'd say it's a descendent of the constable (can't remember his name right this second) who has a beef with it,' one woman said.

'That is one of the most Australian things I've ever seen good on them,' commended a third.

Others said they prefer any Aussie or Outback theme to the snow-covered pieces which don't represent Christmas in Australia.

Bunnings revealed the controversial blow up decoration would remain on sale despite the fall out online.

The decoration is only available in store as stock is selling fast

The item is only available in store with the retailer quoting 'low stock' as the reason to take it off the website.

'The inflatable Santa is part of our promotional items for Christmas that includes a wide range of festive inflatable designs this year,' Bunnings General Manager of Merchandise Adrian Pearce said.

Ned Kelly famously died in a shoot out with police back in 1880, aged 26.
Some NHS trusts in England have been accused of using foreign doctors as 'cheap labour'.

Doctors from abroad can come to work at hospital trusts for two years as fellows to gain experience to implement in practice in their home countries.

The programme is part of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' Medical Training Initiative (MTI) scheme. A number of doctors are sponsored, while a proportion are directly employed by a trust.

But, an investigation by The British Medical Journal (BMJ) claims some fellows are paid less than other employees, and have fewer benefits.

According to the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, since the scheme began in 2009 there have been almost 7,000 trainees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

Doctors from abroad can come to work at hospital trusts for two years as fellows to gain experience to implement in practice in their home countries. The programme is part of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' Medical Training Initiative (MTI) scheme. A number of doctors are sponsored, while a proportion are directly employed by a trust. But, an investigation by The British Medical Journal (BMJ) claims some fellows are paid less than other employees, and have fewer benefits

The BMJ found an agreement between the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) with University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust seemingly led to trainees being paid less than trust-employed workers.

It claimed senior fellows from Pakistan who worked at UHB as grade three specialty trainee (ST3) registrars or above were paid between 2,700 and 3,600 a month by CPSP, which is the equivalent of 32,400 to 43,200 tax-free a year.

They are not guaranteed overtime pay or pay for on-call work.

According to NHS pay-scales, ST3 doctors employed by the trust were paid 51,017 in 2022/23 and 55,328 a year in 2023/24 as a basic gross salary, excluding any overtime or enhanced hours payments.

One consultant, who spoke to the BMJ anonymously, claimed UHB was using fellows as 'cheap labour'.

Read more: How doctors are JUMPING the NHS queue to get treated quicker than you Advertisement

Although another senior medic at the trust praised the scheme for its training opportunities, but highlighted a lack of equal pay and rights.

An AoMRC spokesperson said: 'The issues the BMJ is raising here are very concerning.

'All doctors should be paid the correct rate for their work, regardless of whether they are on the MTI scheme or not.

'But this is a matter between the doctor and the NHS organisation that employs them.'

Under the deal, fellows at UHB also do not get paid parental leave, the BMJ said.

One doctor told the publication she was sent home when she revealed news of her pregnancy.

She said: 'One lady from the international team seemed angry and said "we don't expect you guys to get pregnant while you're here" and that my fellowship would be terminated. It was a shock to me how she spoke.'

Michael Newman, an employment lawyer at law firm Leigh Day, told The BMJ that every worker is entitled to maternity leave after they begin employment by law, and they are entitled to statutory maternity pay after 26 weeks of employment.

He described the conditions of the scheme as 'exploitative'.

In the emergency department at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust ST3 medics  including those on an MTI scheme  were paid a gross salary of at least 64,319 after being paid for weekend and on call work in 2022/23, leaving them with 46,358 after tax and national insurance.

In light of the BMJ investigation, CPSP is set to review and overhaul some guidelines, but said the scheme has improved healthcare in Pakistan.

A spokesperson for UHB said the programme 'undoubtedly benefits the NHS system, but in return it benefits the overseas healthcare structure'.

Figures collected by think tank Migration Watch UK in April show that NHS England recruited more than 12,000 doctors from overseas in 2022 (red line), while only around 7,000 Brits began studying medicine across the country (yellow line)

India and Pakistan are two largest non-UK countries that doctors currently registered to work in Britain originally trained in with about 30,000 and 17,000 respectively. This is followed by Nigeria, Egypt , Ireland, South Africa, Greece, Sudan, Italy, and Romania

They added: 'Programmes which encourage the upskilling of medical practitioners from countries with less-developed healthcare systems have been described by the WHO as a "brain gain and not a brain drain".'

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, told The BMJ: 'As we do not directly employ staff who are a part of the medical trainee scheme we are, therefore, not responsible for their remuneration.

'Our trust has not received any concerns from our MTI colleagues, however, should they have any that they would like to raise with us directly, we would be more than happy to look into them.'

She added that any overtime would be paid at the bank rates used for all trust medical staff and that fellows all receive 28 days free accommodation on arrival.

Meanwhile, Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said it has recruited three MTI fellows under the CPSP scheme, who are due to start in November, but does not have any in post at present.

A spokesman said: 'The job description, person specification and rota patterns have been reviewed and approved by the dean.'

An NHS spokesperson also added: 'While the salary of these positions is agreed between the individual trust and their international partner, fellows play an important role in treating NHS patients at the same time as learning new advanced clinical skills in a high-quality and fair learning environment, before returning to their home country.'
More than 11million people are stuck in a 'hidden' NHS backlog and need follow-up care, a study suggests.

The health service routinely publishes headline statistics on how many patients are waiting on routine hospital care, such as hip operations and cataract removal, each month.

Currently the toll stands at an all-time high of 7.75million in England  the equivalent of one in seven people.

However, it excludes those who have already undergone a procedure and require a vital check-up.

Analysis by the Reform think tank, based on Freedom of Information disclosures, indicates there are 11.36million patients stuck in this queue  or one in five people. It suggests the total NHS backlog actually stands at 19.1million.

MailOnline's interactive tool lets you see the queue at your local trust  though just half of those in England have shared the data.

The think tank found that the follow-up waitlist has grown significantly since the pandemic. It estimates that more than 11million patients are waiting for ongoing care  around 3.5 million more people than the elective backlog

While each trust has an average of 100,00 people on their 'hidden' list, the length of this queue varies dramatically between hospitals.

One reported that just 1,000 Brits need follow-up care, while the worst-hit trust had a queue of more than half a million

The figures show that 516,919 patients are in the queue for a follow-up appointment at East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust  the biggest total.

Meanwhile, the 'hidden' backlog stands at 432,396 at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, 403,108 at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London and 238,382 at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

University Hospitals of North Midlands (201,372), Hull University Teaching Hospitals (195,035) and Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust (167,352) also reported some of the biggest waiting lists.

At the other end of the scale, Nottingham University Hospitals has just 1,008 patients waiting for follow-up appointments  the smallest queue in the country.

What do the latest NHS performance figures show? The overall waiting list grew by more than 65,000 to 7.75million in August. This is up from 7.68million in July. There were 265 people waiting more than two years to start treatment at the end of August, down from 277 in July. The number of people waiting more than a year to start hospital treatment was 396,643, up from 389,952 the previous month. Some 33,107 people had to wait more than 12 hours in A&E departments in England in September. The figure is up from 28,859 in August. A total of 125,829 people waited at least four hours from the decision to admit to admission in September, up from 120,120 in August. Just 71.6 per cent of patients were seen within four hours at A&Es last month. NHS standards set out that 95 per cent should be admitted, transferred or discharged within the four-hour window. In September, the average category one response time  calls from people with life-threatening illnesses or injuries  was 8 minutes and 31 seconds. The target time is seven minutes. Ambulances took an average of 37 minutes and 38 seconds to respond to category two calls, such as burns, epilepsy and strokes. This is nearly twice as long as the 18 minute target. Response times for category three calls  such as late stages of labour, non-severe burns and diabetes  averaged 2 hours, 15 minutes and 59 seconds. Nine in 10 ambulances are supposed to arrive to these calls within two hours. Advertisement

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust in Harlow (12,042), Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (13,618) and North Cumbria Integrated Care (13,905) were also among the trusts with the smallest queues.

However, almost half of trusts in England  47 per cent  failed to provide data on their follow-up waiting lists.

Some 62 trusts provided data, 17 did not respond to the FOI request despite a legal duty to do so, and 39 claimed not to hold the information.

It means the true scale of the 'hidden' waiting list will be much higher.

Experts warn patients in this backlog risk being neglected and coming to harm as health leaders prioritise higher profile cases.

Each case requires the attention of overstretched NHS staff, who could be used to treat new patients or follow-up with existing ones.

Failing to carry out adequate monitoring of long-term conditions or cancer patients, manage medicines, and check patients after surgery provides significant clinical risks, experts say.

The number of people waiting for follow-up care has increased by 50 per cent between May 2019 (7.53million), pre-pandemic, and May this year.

Rishi Sunak has made tackling the overall elective care backlog one of his five priorities as Prime Minister.

Sebastian Rees, senior research and report co-author at Reform, said: 'The health and safety of patients is being threatened by these hidden waitlists.

'The failure to provide timely follow up appointments risks failing to detect the recurrence of cancer or complications post-surgery, and people becoming disabled as the result of a deteriorating condition.

'It is deeply concerning that so many trusts could not even tell us how many people are on their follow up waitlists, showing a lack of prioritisation or grasp of the problem.

'NHS England must require all trusts to report this data and hold hospitals accountable for talking this hidden backlog.'

Ophthalmology has the highest number of waiters, with a 28.5 per cent increase between 2019 and 2023, the data suggests.

England's ever-growing backlog hit 7.75million in August  the equivalent of one in seven people. This includes nearly 400,000 stuck in the system for over a year, often in pain

According to the NHS Constitution, at least 92 per cent of patients should receive elective treatment within 18 weeks of first referral (pink line). September 2015 was the last time this standard was met. NHS data for July shows fewer than six in 10 patients were seen within this timeframe

The graph shows the top ten treatment areas that have the largest follow-up backlog in 2023. Most patients are waiting for a check-up ophthalmology, cardiology or orthopaedic appointment

The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has previously warned that permanent harm from avoidable sight loss is nine times more likely in follow-up patients than in new patients.

Rachel Power, chief executive of the Patients Association, described the study as 'alarming'.

She added: 'We worry that long waits could lead to patients' health declining perhaps to the point where treatment is ineffective.

'We urge the NHS to be transparent about the number of patients waiting for care.'

Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, which represents NHS trusts, said: 'No trust leader wants patients  their number one priority  to be kept waiting for the care they need.

'It's important to note that while the waiting list for follow-up appointments is concerning, many people on that list do not require urgent treatment or care.

'Trusts are working incredibly hard to see patients as quickly as possible.'

Rory Deighton, director of the Acute Network at NHS Confederation, which represents healthcare organisations, said: 'Health leaders and their teams are straining every sinew to get the NHS back on its feet and waiting lists down in the face of serious challenges, but with industrial action continuing to hinder recovery efforts, need more help to do so.'
For those experiencing a suicide crisis, call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Her family discovered a letter she had written titled 'A Letter to My Abuser'

Tristan Kate Smith (pictured left) was a former ER nurse in Dayton, Ohio

A 'devoted' nurse who killed herself and left a note slamming the American healthcare system epitomizes the crisis facing hospital workers, her devastated family has said.

Tristan Kate Smith, who worked as a nurse in a hospital emergency room in Dayton, Ohio, died at her home by suicide August 7, 2023, at 28 years old.

Her family later found a letter she had written five months prior to her death on her laptop titled 'A Letter to My Abuser,' with 'abuser' referring to the American healthcare system.

In the note, Ms Smith described the system as abusive and said the toxic work culture crushed her spirit.

She said she did not feel protected from violent patients, nor from making mistakes in her job.

Ms Smith's suicide comes as a report from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found record levels of burnout, harassment and desire to leave the field among healthcare workers.

Healthcare workers are at a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population, a study found, with specific roles particularly at risk

Ms Smith (center) described the healthcare system as abusive and said the toxic work culture crushed her spirit

The news follows a slew of healthcare worker strikes over pay and working conditions, with 75,000 unionized Kaiser Permanente employees citing feelings of burnout and staff shortages as they staged a walkout in five states and the District of Columbia.

In September last year, the largest nursing strike in US history took place in Minnesota, where 15,000 nurses embarked on a three-day strike.

They said their hospitals had failed to hire and retain adequate nurses, causing a staffing shortage that reduced the quality of care.

The nursing crisis is particularly bad in Minnesota because of its aging population, which is placing additional stress on hospital staff - coupled with a low unemployment rate across the state, with less incentive for people to join the profession.

The average registered nurse in Minnesota earns $84,030 a year, or an hourly salary of $40.40 - making the state the 13th ranked in the nation, according to Nurse Journal.

In California, registered nurses earn $124,000; Southern and Midwestern states pay the least, with Alabama nurses earning $61,000 per year.

Minnesota was not the only state with strike action: in Oregon, 7,000 healthcare workers worked out of their jobs, and in Hawaii and California, mental health care professionals went on strike amid protests over inadequate staffing.

And earlier this year, in New York, more than 7,000 nurses from Mount Sinai, one of the biggest healthcare systems in New York City, went on strike.

Nurses are continually asked to 'do more with less', Ms Smith had written.

Research suggests female nurses are twice as likely to die by suicide than the general female population and 70 percent more likely than female physicians.

Ms Smith's letter was published in a local Ohio paper The Oakwood Register this month, alongside a letter from her father, Ron Smith.

Mr Smith wrote: 'You're reading this now because Tristin's story needs to be told. We need to take action. Our nation's healthcare system is broken, and it broke our girl.

'Her passion for nursing has turned into a nightmare. Tristin was in trouble. Nurses are in trouble.'

Addressing the healthcare system in her letter, Ms Smith said it had 'taken my heart and slowly crushed the goodness it had.'

She said: 'You asked my colleagues and me what we needed to help patients and improve satisfaction scores, and we told you the truth. But then you sent us to online courses that taught us to just smile more and be friendlier to the patients.

'That's when I began to understand your true cruelty and manipulation.'

Casey Chosewood, director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Healths Office for Total Worker Health, told CNN employers need to take the information from the CDC report and 'take immediate preventive actions,' such as ensuring employees are more involved in decision making.

He said: 'To label our current and long-standing challenge a "crisis" is an understatement.'

In her letter, Ms Smith called her 'abusive partner' 'relentless' and detailed how 'each day' she was asked to 'do more with less.'

She said she heard about nurses who were hit by patients and how they were advised 'not to fight back' and instead to 'lay with their hands up' and wait for security.

The CDC report found the number of healthcare practitioners experiencing harassment at work shot up from six percent to 13 percent between 2018 and 2022.

Examples included violent threats, bullying and verbal abuse from patients and coworkers.

The data was from 226 health workers in 2018 and 325 health workers in 2022.

The report also found harassment had a big impact on mental health. Nurses who said they'd been harassed were five times more likely to report anxiety compared to those who were not, three times more likely to be depressed and nearly six times as likely to report burnout.

Ms Smith wrote in her letter: 'You beat me to the point that my body and mind are black, bruised, and bleeding out.'

She added: 'You use and exploit us to line your pockets, using the common citizens money for overpriced healthcare.'

Ms Smith referenced nurses not being protected by the law or their employers. Some believed this was a reference to RaDonda Vaught, a nurse who was found guilty of homicide after her 75-year-old patient died when Ms Vaught administered the wrong drug.

'Caring for people who are sick can also be intensely stressful and emotional,' said Dr Debra Houry, the CDC's chief medical officer.

In the CDC's latest survey, 44 percent of health workers said they wanted to look for a new job - an increase from 33 percent in 2018.

In her obituary, her family said: 'Tristin had a smile that lit up any room. She was brave, smart, and beautiful. She will be desperately missed by all whose lives she touched.'
Two thirds of British women are optimistic about having sex during the menopause, research suggests.

A survey of nearly 1,500 women of all ages has shown how sex during  and after  the menopause is perceived differently across countries.

Researchers asked women in the UK, USA, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark and Sweden whether they thought it was 'true or false' that women don't tend to have sex during the menopause.

Results show British women are most positive, with 66 per cent saying the statement was false compared to 61 per cent in the USA and 48 per cent of European women.

The survey was run by health website Treated, with the results discussed on the Let's Talk Menopause podcast. Dr Annice Mukherjee, a hormone expert, explained that sex is a 'very individual thing', so the idea that women generally tend not to have sex during or after the menopause is not necessarily true.

She said: 'I'm a doctor who asks people about sex all the time  that's been my job for the last 20-30 years  so I hear all sorts of things. I've seen couples who are much older  post-menopausal women and their partners  who have a brilliant sex life.

Two thirds of British women are optimistic about having sex during the menopause , research suggests (Stock Image)

A survey of nearly 1,500 women of all ages has shown how sex during  and after  the menopause is perceived differently across countries

'And I see younger adults  men and women  who are struggling with their sex drive and they're full of hormones. So it's difficult to say that menopause is the cause of sexual problems when there's a whole load of other factors that can impact our sex life.'

The survey also revealed that 75 per cent of British women believed that their sex drive would be much lower after the menopause.

Studies suggest that, while a decrease in libido won't affect everyone going through menopause the same way, sexual desire tends to drop during late menopause and in the early stages of post-menopause.

Dr Daniel Atkinson, clinical lead for the Treated website, added: 'It's about whether patients are content with that or not.

'Some people, after menopause, don't feel like having sex and really want to feel like having sex.

'And there's others that don't feel like having sex and it's not a problem for them. It's about exploring whether that's a problem for you or not.'

Other findings from the survey reveal that 31 per cent of British women don't feel like they have enough support to understand and manage menopause.

Meanwhile more British women associated mental health problems such as depression with menopause compared to those in the USA and Europe.

Previous research has found almost half of women say they stopped having sex while going through the menopause, while 65 per cent said being menopausal has affected their marriage.
French authorities detected the virus in tests conducted on the Spanish border

A disease thought to kill up to four in ten people who become infected has been identified in France for the first time.

Ticks carrying Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) have been found on the nation's border with Spain.

The disease  a cousin of Ebola  is endemic in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Balkans, and has been sporadically detected in southern parts of western Europe such as Spain.

Experts have long warned that climate change will propel the disease into northern Europe. And even Britain could be at risk.

French health authorities have detected the deadly tick-borne disease Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever in animals

Live ticks collected from cattle in the Pyrenees Orientales region were found to be harbouring the disease.

World Health Organization officials declared CCHF one of its nine priority diseases this year due to its potential threat.

CCHF is mainly spread to humans by tick bites, but people can also catch it through contact with bodily fluids from infected patients.

The disease shares similar symptoms to Ebola at the start, including muscle aches, abdominal pain, a sore throat and vomiting.

It can also trigger bleeding, usually from the nose or from broken capillaries on the eyes and skin.

Other symptoms of the virus, which come on suddenly, include fever, dizziness, neck pain and stiffness, backache, headache, sore eyes and sensitivity to light.

No vaccine is available, with treatment instead focused on keeping a person alive long enough for their body to fight off the infection.

Previous CCHF outbreaks have killed between 10 and 40 per cent of those infected, according to the WHO.

UK health authorities have advised people travelling to the region in France where CCHF was detected to avoid tick bites.

CCHF, a tick-borne virus, has a mortality rate of up to 40 per cent according to the World Health Organization, and causes symptoms similar to Ebola

A number of diseases carried by mosquitoes and ticks could be on their way to Britain, experts have warned, thanks to warmer temperatures

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They warned those going camping, hiking or interacting with animals in the region were especially at risk of such bites.

CCHF cases have been detected in people in France before, but these have, so far, all been imported cases where people were infected overseas.

'No autochthonous case [infection acquired on French territory] has been detected in humans in France to date,' the French government agency Sante Publique France said in its announcement of the discovery.

Health authorities have long suspected ticks with CCHF may be lurking inside both wild and domestic animals in France based on tests that showed livestock had developed antibodies against the virus.

The announcement of the CCHF directly from ticks collected from French livestock confirms these fears.

CCHF infections in humans have already been reported multiple times in neighbouring Spain, with 12 cases between 2013 and August last year, four of which were fatal.

Ticks with CCHF were first detected in Spain in 2010.

In August this year the EU's disease watchdog reported two cases of CCHF in North Macedonia, one of which was fatal.

The first and fatal case occurred in late July in an agricultural worker who reported being bitten by a tick.

A second case the developed in a healthcare worked who initially treated the man then went on to develop symptoms on August 8.

CCHF is mainly transmitted to humans via bites from the the Hyalomma marginatum tick, which is roughly 5mm long and has two coloured legs with whitish rings at the joints.

Speaking in July, Professor James Wood, head of veterinary medicine at Cambridge University, told MPs on the Commons Science, Innovation and Technology Committee: 'Some tick-borne infections, so Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever, are highly likely to spread in the UK through our ticks at some point.'

He even warned that potential outbreaks could initially slip under the radar because so few medics in this country have experience of the disease.

'The challenge will be early detection because our clinicians don't know what they look like,' he said.
A woman who kept hearing clicking and rustling sounds was found to have a spider crawling around inside her left ear.

The 64-year-old from Taiwan, who was not named, went to hospital after battling the symptoms for four days, which became unbearable and left her unable to sleep.

Doctors quickly found the tiny spider that was about the size of a pin, along with its shedded skin beside it.

The arachnid was removed via a suction device. The woman suffered no damage to her ear canal or long term effects.

Woman from Taiwan, 64, has had a spider removed from her ear after it became lodged inside for four days

She had been hearing constant rustling and clicking noises which left her unable to sleep

The bizarre case was revealed in the New England Journal of Medicine.

The spider was found in the woman's ear in April this year, with the rustling noises beginning one morning after the woman woke up.

Tiny creatures do occasionally get inside ears, accounting for around one in eight cases where foreign objects got lodged in ears.

Others previously seen in the ear include tiny ants, cockroaches, moths and mosquitoes.

They can climb in via the outer ear canal and make their way to the ear drum  or tympanic membrane  causing patients to hear constant sounds.

Doctors often remove them using a device called a suction cannula  which can be placed into the ear to remove tiny objects.

Doctors say they are likely to be heard by patients because the skin around the eardrum is extremely sensitive.

But they say it is best not to attempt to remove the insects, with most cases of people suffering damage linked to attempts to remove the creatures.

Dr Stacey Ishman, an ear, nose and throat expert at the University of Wisconsin, told NBC: 'Most of the time the ear is completely fine.

'If there's some injury to the ear canal, quite honestly it's more often from people trying to get it out than it is from the bug itself.'

A safe way to get insects out of the ear is to pour in vegetable or olive oil, doctors say, which could drown the creature or let it slide out.

Another method is to pour lidocaine or ethanol into the ear to kill the insect, to stop it from moving and damaging the ear.

But people who have holes in their ear drum should avoid this, doctors say, because of the risk of damage to the ear drum.

It comes after a New Zealand man had a cockroach pulled out of his ear after he felt it wriggling for three days.

Zane Wedding, from Auckland, went to the doctor on Saturday with what he thought was water stuck in his ear canal after a day of swimming.

He had his ear syringed, was given antibiotics and then sent home but decided to go to an ear specialist on Monday because he could still feel a squirming sensation.

The specialist realised Wedding had a now-dead cockroach in his ear and managed to extract the insect - and was gifted it as a memento from the patient.

'It made me physically ill,' Wedding told the NZ Herald, describing the ordeal.

The doctor was just as shocked as he was, Mr Wedding said, proclaiming 'Oh my god' when she realised what he had stuck in his ear canal.
It is due to enter human trials, with more than 3,000 people offering to take part

Scientists in Brazil, one of the world's largest consumers of cocaine, are developing a vaccine for addiction to the drug and its potent derivative, crack.

Named 'Calixcoca,' it works by triggering an immune response that prevents cocaine and crack from reaching the brain, meaning users would no longer get high from the drug, which may help break the addiction cycle.

The experimental shot has shown promising results in animal trials and will soon enter the final stage of trials - testing on humans.

Earlier this year, vaccines for fentanyl and heroin overdoses, which would be given to high-risk drug users, were also shown to be successful in animal studies and are due to enter human trials next year, suggesting vaccines could be a novel way of getting a grip on America's overdose problem.

Named 'Calixcoca,' the vaccine works by triggering an immune response that prevents cocaine and crack from reaching the brain, meaning users would no longer get high from the drug, which may help break the addiction cycle

So far, Calixcoca has proved to be effective in tests on animals, generating antibodies against cocaine with minimal side effects

When someone snorts cocaine, the powder is absorbed into the blood through the nasal tissues.

People may also rub the drug onto their gums or dissolve it in water and inject it, where it reaches the bloodstream quickly and makes the drug's effects more intense.

Brazil's vaccine works by prompting the immune system to release antibodies that attach to cocaine molecules in the blood.

This makes the molecules too large to enter the brain's mesolimbic pathway or the 'reward center' of the brain. Here, the drug would stimulate high levels of the pleasure-inducing hormone dopamine.

By blocking the molecules, the vaccine would prevent a person from feeling the high they usually experience after taking the drug.

The shot is not intended to reverse cocaine overdoses but is hoping to prevent an addict from taking the drug in the first place because of the lack of a high.

It is not clear if the vaccine is administered as a single shot or over a number of injections.

If the vaccine attains regulatory approval, it would be the first time cocaine addiction has been treated using a vaccine.

Psychiatrist Frederico Garcia, head of the team that developed the treatment at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil, told AFP while attempts had been made to create a similar shot in the US, they were halted when results from clinical trials were not strong enough.

Psychiatrist Frederico Garcia is head of the team that developed the treatment at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil

So far, Calixcoca has proved to be effective in tests on animals, generating antibodies against cocaine with minimal side effects.

It is now due to enter human trials, and Dr Garcia said more than 3,000 people have contacted his team to volunteer in the clinical trials.

Last week, the vaccine won the top prize - half a million dollars - at the Euro Health Innovation awards for Latin American medicine.

There is currently no registered treatment for cocaine and crack addiction, Dr Garcia said, and an addict's only option is a combination of 'psychological counseling, social assistance and rehabilitation.'

The vaccine would assist patients at their most critical stages of recovery, such as when they leave rehab, he added.

It was also found to protect rat fetuses against cocaine, researchers found, suggesting it could be given to pregnant addicts to protect their unborn babies.

The shot is made entirely from chemical compounds designed in a lab, rather than biological ingredients, which is how many other vaccines, like some for cancer, are made.

This means it is cheaper to make and does not have to be stored at low temperatures.

If approved, the vaccine will not be available to everyone, Dr Garcia said, but will go to recovering addicts who have stopped taking cocaine and want to stay off the drug.

In the US, cocaine is a Schedule II substance, alongside fentanyl, methamphetamines and morphine. In the UK, it is a Class A drug  or among those with the highest potential for abuse.

Crack, a derivative of cocaine, is made by cooking cocaine powder with baking soda, then breaking it into small pieces called rocks. Crack cocaine looks like white or tan pellets.

Both crack and cocaine are highly addictive. One in four regular cocaine users becomes addicted in America, and only one in four of those addicts manages to quit after five years of treatment.

Globally, the cocaine industry is worth around $130 billion.

Drug overdose deaths involving cocaine have been steadily rising over the years, from 6,784 in 2015 to 15,883 in 2019. By 2021, deaths had increased sharply to 24,486.
Chicken meat and kebabs could be the source of a salmonella outbreak which has struck dozens of Brits, officials say.

At least 335 people across Europe  including 110 in the UK  have been sickened under the same outbreak. One has died.

Health chiefs are now urgently hunting for the source, warning that more cases will likely happen until it is found.

The majority of cases, which have affected all age groups, can be linked to chicken meat, including kebabs.

Salmonella usually causes a fever, sickness and diarrhoea which clears up in days  but it can be fatal.

At least 335 people across Europe  including 110 in the UK  have been sickened under the same outbreak. One has died. Health chiefs are now urgently hunting for the source, warning that more cases will likely happen until it is found. The majority of cases, which have affected all age groups, can be linked to chicken meat, including kebabs

Salmonella are a group of bacteria that infect the gut. It is often triggered by contaminated food or water. Symptoms of infection include diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever. On average, it takes from 12 to 72 hours for the symptoms to develop after swallowing an infectious dose of salmonella. Pictured, a culture of salmonella bacteria

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control jointly issued the alert with the European Food Safety Authority.

Every case in the outbreak, which has hit 16 nations, has occurred since the start of 2023.

One particular strain, a salmonella enteritidis subtype, is to blame for the outbreak, which is split into three distinct clusters.

Officials routinely investigate outbreaks in order to control them.

The three clusters comprised 66, 192, and 77 cases respectively, with 14, 83 and 13 logged in the UK.

Of the 335 cases, nine across three countries were hospitalised, while one fatality  who had eaten a chicken kebab in a restaurant  was logged in Austria.

One case was detected in the US, during the second cluster, among someone who had travelled to Spain and reportedly eaten chicken during their stay.

The EFSA said: 'Scientists expect new cases are likely to occur in this multi-country outbreak as the source has not yet been identified.

'EFSA and ECDC experts recommend further investigations to identify the potential locations within the chicken meat production chain where the contamination may have occurred.'

Salmonella  a family of bacteria  live in the gut of farm animals and birds. It can, therefore, be found in meat, eggs and poultry.

Symptoms usually include diarrhoea and stomach cramps and can be accompanied by vomiting and fever.

Illness usually fades after three days and most people recover without treatment.

Blood poisoning, abscesses and joint pains are rare complications, according to the NHS.
READ MORE: Woman told 'beauty mark' above lip was actually skin cancer

Two pregnant women have suffered tumors on their lips and tongues after being injured, with one caused by chewing on food.

A 26-year-old from Saudi Arabia suffered the non-cancerous growth on the right side of her bottom lip after suffering a 'minor trauma'. The mass started out small, but grew to a nearly 0.7-inch tumor about the size of a dime  which bled.

A 43-year-old from the same country also suffered from a tumor on her tongue, which appeared after she bit into it while eating dinner.

The growths  diagnosed as capillary hemangiomas, and caused by the abnormal growth of blood vessels  are thought to be rare on the lips, although researchers say many cases are misdiagnosed.

Only three cases of the condition affecting the lips have ever been recorded.

Pregnancy may raise the risk of these growths because the higher levels of estrogen can drive blood vessels to grow excessively.

A 26-year-old woman from Saudi Arabia suffered from the above growth after getting an injury to her lips. She was pregnant at the time

A 43-year-old woman suffered from a similar growth on the side of her tongue

The rare cases were revealed in the American Journal of Case Reports.

Doctors applied local anesthetic to the affected area on the 26 year-old woman, who was in her third trimester, before surgically removing the tumor.

She was then discharged and given antibiotics to slash the risk of infections.

At a check-up a week later, doctors noted that her lip was healing well.

The tumor was left to grow for four months before the woman, who was otherwise healthy, sought medical aid.

The 43-year-old was in her second trimester of pregnancy. Her tumor, which was said to measure roughly 0.3 inches in diameter, appeared roughly two weeks after the tongue injury.

Doctors consequently removed the growth during an operation.

Capillary hemangiomas form due to an overgrowth of small blood vessels called capillaries.

This causes a red or purplish raised lump to appear on the skin.

The problem can be triggered by injuries to the lips, doctors say. Damage to the tissue - from a cut or tear - sparks the sudden growth of new blood vessels in an attempt to fix the wound.

But sometimes this can go awry, leading to the overgrowth of blood vessels behind the condition.

People who are pregnant may be at increased risk due to higher levels of the sex hormone estrogen.

Estrogen can bind to blood vessel cells and cause them to multiply excessively.

Doctors said the tumors may be so rare on the lips because they are often misdiagnosed as pyogenic granulomas  a non-cancerous skin growth that appears as a small and reddish lump.

Cases are more commonly reported on the tongue, which is thought to be because of the high number of blood vessels in the area.

Doctors surgically removed the growth, which had been steadily swelling for four months

The other woman's growth was also removed using surgery

Pictured above is the 26-year-old woman's lips following the surgery. She came for a check a week after the procedure

Shown above is the woman's tongue after having the tumor removed, which emerged while she was eating

Capillary hemangiomas, a sub-type of hemangiomas  encompassing all tumors caused by the overgrowth of blood vessels  are more common in infants and children, linked to abnormal blood vessel development in the uterus.

The growths are most common on the head and neck, which doctors suspect is because of large quantities of blood vessels.

Dr Alsheikh and others added in the report: 'Although hemangiomas can develop in any part of the body, the head and neck are most commonly affected.

'Because they are visible from the outside, these lesions are usually recognized quickly by patients and physicians, and are thus diagnosed.'

He added that these lesions usually vanish on their own in most cases.

'But they are surgically excised [removed] if they are detected early, for both cosmetic and functional reasons.'
Fake versions of Ozempic have left Brits desperate to lose weight in a coma, health chiefs warned today.

The once-a-week jab, made by Danish pharma giant Novo Nordisk, is offered on the NHS to help type 2 diabetes patients control their blood sugar levels.

Semaglutide  the generic name for Ozempic  also triggers weight loss, earning it praise as a 'miracle' slimming injection.

Huge global demand have seen counterfeit versions flood the market.

Officials have already seized 369 potentially fake Ozempic pens since the start of the year.

Bogus versions of Saxenda, another similar weight loss drug, obtained through 'non-legitimate routes' have also been reported to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Watchdogs said Brits have been hospitalised after using potentially fake jabs.

Officials have seized 369 potentially fake Ozempic pens since the beginning of the year, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) revealed. It has also received reports of fake Saxenda pens obtained by Brits through 'non-legitimate routes, it warned

Wegovy and Ozempic work by triggering the body to produce a hormone called GLP-1 that is released naturally from the intestines after meals

It did not state how many people were sickened, only revealing it was a 'very small number'.

Buying prescription-only drugs online without a prescription poses a 'direct danger to health', the MHRA said.

'With any medicines bought outside of the legal supply chain, the contents may not match the ingredients on the label,' a safety alert said.

'Serious side effects reported of those hospitalised, including hypoglycaemic shock and coma, indicate that the pens may contain insulin rather than semaglutide.'

If too much insulin is injected into the body, blood sugar can drop to dangerously low levels.

Read more: Urgent warning over fake Ozempic jabs found in UK as officials reveal how to tell if fat-busting injection is genuine Advertisement

Dr Alison Cave, the MHRA's chief safety officer said: 'Buying products such as Ozempic or Saxenda without a prescription, from illegally trading suppliers, significantly increases the risk of receiving something which is either fake or not licensed for use in the UK.

'Products purchased in this way do not meet our strict quality and safety standards, and taking such medicines may put your health at significant risk.

'We are advising all members of the public not to use any pre-filled weight loss pens they may have bought online and instead to report it to us so that we can investigate and take any necessary action.'

Health minister Will Quince added: 'No one should put profit before the needs of patients, but fraudsters selling black market medicines like this are extremely dangerous and can put peoples health at risk.

'The medical advice is clear: patients should only use medicines like Ozempic or Saxenda where theyve been prescribed it by a legitimate source, such as their GP or another legitimate prescriber.

'The MHRA have our full support in cracking down on these illegal online suppliers to ensure that patients are protected.'

All pharmacies in Great Britain, including those online, must be registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and meet their standards.

Anyone concerned about their health should visit a GP or pharmacist for a correct diagnosis, the MHRA urged.

European Medicines Agency bosses last week announced that counterfeit versions of Ozempic had entered the market.

The fake jabs had batch numbers, barcodes and unique serial numbers copied from genuine Ozempic packs.

But when scanned as part of an EU-wide electronic system, the serial numbers were shown to be inactive, alerting authorities that they were potentially fake.

Ozempic is available on the NHS as a treatment for managing blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes. In May, it was also approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy but is yet to launch in the UK due to supply issues

A separate warning from Germany's Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices also stated that the fake versions came in packs of three and had an expiry date of July and December 2025.

It shared the serial and batch codes for the affected products but warned that they were copied from real Ozempic boxes.

As a result, it warned it was nearly impossible to tell apart the real and fake versions from the boxes they came in.

However, the fake injectable pens have a clear rather than grey lid, and the base of the pen is a slightly darker shade of blue than the original. Markings on the label and dose are slightly different, too.

Semaglutide has ushered in a new era in the war on obesity. The treatment, loved by Hollywood stars, spur weight loss by mimicking the actions of a hormone released in the gut after eating, called GLP-1.

As well as telling the pancreas to make more insulin, the GLP-1 hormone feeds back to the brain and makes users feel full.

As a result, semaglutide can stop users from over-eating.

In September MailOnline found sellers on Facebook Marketplace listing weight-loss jabs for sale without the need for a prescription. One seller shows an image of a fridge full of medication and lists the weight-loss jabs for 130, pictured left. Another seller lists semaglutide, a drug found in both Ozempic and Wegovy, pictured right

In July, the UK's Department of Health urged doctors and pharmacists to stop prescribing Ozempic to people who simply want to lose weight.

Health officials warned the clamour to get hold of it  and similar medications  was fuelling the national shortage, putting diabetics' lives at risk.

Ozempic is available on the NHS as a treatment for managing blood glucose levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

In May, another version of semaglutide was approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. It is not yet widely available in the UK due to supply issues.

The delay has led to a rise in 'off-label' prescribing  where medications are issued for something other than its intended use  which is exacerbating shortages.

Despite patients being eager to take the drugs, it is not without side effects.

Users commonly complain of nausea, constipation and diarrhoea after taking the medication. Less common side effects include altered taste and acute pancreatitis.

MailOnline revealed earlier this year Novo Nordisk is probing whether semaglutide could raise the risk of medullary thyroid cancer and pancreatic cancer.

But no evidence yet proves they are definitely side effects  even in extremely rare cases.

All Brits are urged to report any medicines side effects they notice to the MHRA's Yellow Card Scheme.

The EMA is already probing Ozempic and similar blockbuster weight loss jabs over concerns they may make users contemplate self-harm.

Health chiefs were spooked by reports from Iceland of three patients experiencing thoughts about self-harm and suicide after taking the injections.

Suicidal thoughts are listed as a potential consequence in leaflets tucked inside the packaging already.
Almost 11million menopause prescriptions were handed out in the past year  after a Daily Mail campaign calling for greater access to treatments.

There was a 47 per cent increase in prescriptions for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) compared with 2021-22, official figures show.

HRT helps menopausal women suffering from symptoms such as low mood, hot flushes, anxiety and difficulty sleeping.

The rise follows an unprecedented increase in prescriptions in the past few years, partly due to the 'Davina effect'.

TV personality Davina McCall has released a series of documentaries about the menopause which, along with the efforts of campaigners, has led to an enormous increase in awareness.

TV personality Davina McCall has raised awareness of the issue through a series of documentaries about the menopause

National HRT shortages also led to a Mail campaign, launched last year, which called for more women to be made aware of symptoms and treatment options.

Less than a month after the campaign launch, the Government made it easier for pharmacists to substitute HRT treatments if certain drugs were out of stock. An HRT treatment was also made available over-the-counter in a landmark UK first, and a scheme saving menopausal women more than 200 a year came into force earlier this year.

The new figures, released in a report by the NHS Business Services Authority, also reveal an estimated 2.3 million identifiable patients were prescribed HRT drugs in 2022-23  a 29 per cent increase on the previous year  with women aged 50 to 54 the largest group of patients.

The report also highlighted that more than twice as many patients were prescribed HRT drugs in the least deprived areas compared with the most.

A graph showing how prescriptions for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) have soared since 2015

Menopause campaigner Diane Danzebrink said: 'It is disappointing to see the disparity. This clearly indicates the need for a national campaign.'

Earlier this month, campaigners called for women to get free menopause health checks at 40.

Cross-party MPs and peers have also asked for the 'discussion and diagnosis' of menopause to be included in a mid-life MOT for women. The all-party parliamentary group also said GPs should be incentivised to diagnose the menopause.

Health Minister Maria Caulfield meanwhile says the Government is considering adding the menopause to conditions GPs are assessed on.
There are 10,000 UK Jaguar Land Rover cars currently waiting to be fixed due to a huge global parts shortage that's put the company's workshops at 'breaking point', according to reports.

Around half of the impacted motors are off the road with dealers awaiting parts, it is claimed.

And these drivers are likely left carless because the British vehicle maker had also run out of courtesy cars due to the dearth of available components, according to information leaked to trade title, Car Dealer.

Jaguar Land Rover facing huge parts supply delay: A new report claims there are some 10,000 JLR models currently off the road in Britain today due to being able to source parts to repair them

The 'significant parts shortage' currently affecting JLR was brought to the attention of the dealership network at a summit hosted at the British Motor Museum earlier this month.

Attendees were reportedly told by the brand's client care director, Andrew Woolliscroft, that the supply chain issues would likely continue for another six weeks, leaving a number of customers without their Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles until the middle of November.

At the event  details of which have been leaked to Car Dealer  Woolliscroft admitted the issue is 'seriously impacting' the car manufacturer, its dealers and its customers.

'We've run out of cars to put clients into and we've run out of space to park the cars waiting on parts,' he reportedly told the conference.

Repair problems? Has your car been stuck in repairs limbo? Let us know editor@thisismoney.co.uk

It's believed the Range Rover Velar is one of the affected models, as is the Land Rover Discovery.

Woolliscroft labeled the situation as 'unacceptable' and said that it had 'nearly stopped workshops from being able to operate'.

He went on to say that the company had been 'throwing everything' at resolving the supply problem, which is a result of the firm being in the process of building a new global parts logistics centre called 'Mercia'.

This is a massive one million-square-foot site that will house components that had previously been stored across 18 different warehouses.

The car maker is also changing some of its parts suppliers.

It's believed the coupe-like Range Rover Velar (pictured) is one of the affected models

It is also understood that owners of Land Rover Discovery models will find it difficult to have parts supplied for their cars

A Jaguar Land Rover franchise boss contacted Car Dealer following the event, saying the supply issue was 'acute' and that the network of UK dealers had been' trying to muddle through' the problem for months.

We approached JLR for comment on the Car Dealer reports.

A spokesman told This is Money: 'As we deliver our commitment to become carbon net zero across our supply chain, products, and operations by 2039, we are streamlining parts distribution from multiple locations to one global super centre.

'This transition has unfortunately caused some temporary delays to the delivery of parts to our retailers.

'We are working closely with our distribution partner, Unipart, to quickly resolve the issue and ensure the service returns to normal as soon as possible for our clients.'

The news comes just weeks after Land Rover hit headlines when it was revealed that a diesel Range Rover Sport is believed to be the vehicle that triggered the massive fire at Luton Airport that destroyed up to 1,500 motors in the Terminal 2 car park on 10 October.

JLR is already facing extensive delays on delivery of some of its new models. For instance, there are variants of the Land Rover Defender that, when ordered today, won't arrive with customers for another 12-15 months, the company says on its website

The car maker is also one of the worst hit by customer delays for new models, with some of its vehicles - notably the Defender - quoted with waiting times as long as 12 to 15 months for some variants quoted on its own website.

Range Rovers are also the model second most likely to be stolen in Britain, with 5,533 reportedly pinched in 2022. The Land Rover Discovery was fifth in the list with 1,920 being unlawfully taken from their rightful owners last year.

Such has been the large scale of thefts that some insurers were reportedly refusing to cover Range Rover models in London earlier this year.
Britain's air traffic control provider will be allowed to significantly hike airline charges to help recoup pandemic-related costs.

The Civil Aviation Authority has granted National Air Traffic Services permission to increase average charges in nominal terms for air carriers from 47 to 64 per flight up to 2027, equivalent to a 43p rise for each passenger.

It said the decision will ensure NATS can recover operating costs and revenues that were lost because of the Covid-19 pandemic while also funding investment towards improving services.

Fee hikes: The Civil Aviation Authority has granted National Air Traffic Services permission to increase average charges in nominal terms for air carriers from 47 to 64 per flight until 2027

NATS hit the headlines in late August when a technical glitch over the very busy Bank Holiday Weekend led to hundreds of thousands of passengers having their travel plans severely disrupted.

Airlines scrambled to find accommodation and alternative flights for passengers, although many people ended up sleeping on airport floors.

An interim report by the organisation attributed the failure, described as a 'one in 15 million event' by NATS chief executive Martin Rolfe, to its system incorrectly processing a flight plan.

Three weeks ago, the CAA launched an independent review led by air travel industry veteran Jeff Halliwell to investigate the causes of the chaos.

The aviation regulator insisted on Thursday that the review was separate from its decision on air traffic control fees.

Andrew Walker, the group's chief economist, said the higher charges will ensure NATS can 'provide a resilient, high-quality service for passengers and modernise its services, while recovering costs from the pandemic'.

Walker added that it would ensure the body 'provides an efficient service and value for money. Implementing targets around performance, efficiency, and environmental impact will help deliver an improved airspace system that will benefit everyone'.

Last week, the CAA won a battle to force London Heathrow Airport to cut airline passenger levies despite the travel hub complaining that investment would be stymied.

Britain's largest airport has been told that the amount it could charge for each passenger must be cut from 31.57 for 2023 to 25.43 over the next three years.

On Thursday, Heathrow said the CAA had 'set a challenging settlement' but still promised to make major upgrades to the airport, including over 200million on lowering its carbon footprint.

Alongside this, it reported passenger numbers jumped by over a third to 59.4 million in the first nine months of this year, thanks partly to travel restrictions loosening across the Asia-Pacific region.

This helped revenue climb by 30.1 per cent to 2.74billion and adjusted pre-tax losses plummet by 95.7 per cent to just 19million.
Consumer goods giant Unilever has posted underlying sales growth of 5.2 per cent, following price hikes of 5.8 per cent and volumes declining by 0.6 per cent, with the group maintaining full-year expectations.

New CEO, Hein Schumacher, has announced an 'Action Plan' to boost growth and productivity.

Charlie Huggins, manager of the quality shares portfolio at Wealth Club, commented:

'This is another drab quarter from Unilever with underlying sales growth being entirely led by higher prices and volume declines accelerating in the quarter. Europe was particularly weak with volumes falling by over 10%, and the percentage of Unilever's business winning market share on a rolling 12 month-basis fell to a disappointing 38%.

'Unilever's new CEO, Hein Schumacher, recognises that the group could and should be doing better. His 'Action Plan', announced today, is designed to reinvigorate performance through more impactful innovation, productivity savings and an improved culture.

'Schumacher's mantra is "fewer things, done better, with greater impact". This means prioritising the top 30 Power Brands, instilling greater accountability and simplifying the business.

'For too long, Unilever has been too slow-moving, too complex and too weighed down by too many mediocre brands. A strategy to simplify and refocus on core strengths, perhaps augmented by some non-core brand disposals, feels like the right way to go.
Unilever has given the clearest hint yet that it will dial down its 'woke' agenda as its unveiling of a turnaround plan underwhelmed investors.

Hein Schumacher, who took over from Alan Jope in July, said he would stop 'force-fitting' social justice messaging onto brands.

He said brands taking political stances can be an 'unwelcome distraction'.

Some investors have urged the consumer goods giant to ditch 'virtue signalling' and focus on the bottom line.

Jope put social purpose at the centre of the Hellmann's mayonnaise maker's strategy, pledging to sell brands that 'are not able to stand for something more important than just making your hair shiny, your skin soft, your clothes whiter or your food tastier'.

Schumacher said a social cause was critical to marketing some brands, but for others it was a 'distraction', adding: 'Not every brand should have a social or environmental purpose. We don't want to force-fit that on brands unnecessarily.'

Last year, Unilever was blasted by investor Terry Smith for 'ludicrous' virtue-signalling on everything from sustainability to Knorr stock cubes. There will be a 'dialling back' on social messaging in a focus on growth, Sophie Lund-Yates, equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown explained.

But investors were underwhelmed. There had been high hopes for Schumacher but shares in the British firm whose brands include Dove soap and Magnum ice cream fell 2.8 per cent, or 113.5p, to 3900p.

Schumacher's strategy will focus on 30 'power' brands which make up 70 per cent of Unilever's turnover. These include staples such as Dove, Vaseline and Ben & Jerry's.

New direction: Hein Schumacher

But the City reaction was muted, with analysts saying the update failed to 'blow our socks off'. A share dip yesterday compounded a 12 per cent tumble over the past six months. AJ Bell analyst Danni Hewson said: 'It is not enough to get the market excited, particularly when combined with the mixed third-quarter numbers.'

In its third-quarter results, Unilever posted a 5.2 per cent rise in sales, boosted by price increases. But volumes were down 0.6 per cent, with Europe taking a hit of 10.7 per cent.

Responding to City sceptics, Schumacher pledged: 'We can make a difference. It's making sure we are aware of the things that need to change.'

Unilever's first move is to sell shaving and grooming business Dollar Shave Club to US private equity giant Nexus. Although the news that he would succeed Alan Jope was a surprise to those expecting a big name from the consumer world, Schumacher's record shows he is ruthless.

At Dutch dairy co-operative FrieslandCampina, he carried out a restructuring that involved asset disposals, factory closures and job cuts.
Industry leaders are calling on the Government to do more to help

Small firms are waiting 29 days to be paid by their customers, says Xero

Late payments to small businesses have hit a three-year high, with industry leaders calling on the Chancellor and big businesses to do more to help.

Small businesses waited an average of 29.4 days to be paid by their customers in the three months to September, according to Xero's quarterly small business index. This was 0.5 days longer than the average across the first half of the year.

In September, small firms were typically paid 7.7 days after the payment was due.

This marks the highest level in three years and is putting already struggling small firms on the brink.

Adam Cozens (pictured) says late payments will affect cash flow this festive period

Adam Cozens, co-founder of small business Perky Blenders said: 'As a wholesale coffee retailer, late payments and broader cash flow issues significantly impact how we manage stock levels.

'This really affects our ability to meet demand over busy periods, which is particularly worrying ahead of the festive season, when demand for online gift subscriptions will peak.

'If we are hit by late payments earlier in the year, we can't afford to bulk order in October. This hugely limits sales and growth during our most important sales period.'

The data shows that September's late payment figures bring the thee-month average to 7.1 days late, higher than the 6.4 days reported in the first half of 2023.

> How to deal with late payments

Small firms in the manufacturing sector have been the worst affected, with payments made 10.1 days late on average.

Ben Day, owner of BW Day Metalwork said: 'Late payments completely disrupt my business and personal life.

'As a relatively new business, I don't have a big savings safety net and faced significant upfront costs when setting up my workshop. So, when a customer doesn't pay me on time, it has a direct impact on my personal finances.

I have often had to cover the cost with my personal credit card while waiting for a client payment Business owner Ben Day

'To maintain my relationship with key suppliers, I have often had to cover the cost with my personal credit card while waiting for a client payment. I've also had to ask for grace periods, which makes my business feel and appear less professional.'

The definition of prompt payment for a small business suppliers, as per the Prompt Payment Code (PPC), is to pay 95 per cent of invoices from small businesses with fewer than 50 employees within 30 days.

However, the code is voluntary and research by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) found that in every quarter in 2022, most small businesses experienced late payments.

The Government has launched a review into enforcing late payment rules, but small firms are routinely forced to chase missing cash from businesses they supply.

In response to Xero's findings, a spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade said: 'Small business want big business to be more transparent around retentions, as late and non-payments cause issues and direct supply chains.

'Following our consultation, we are considering reporting requirements to help small businesses make more informed decisions that will give them the stability they need.'

Rushanara Ali MP, shadow small business minister told This Is Money: 'Countless small businesses are being held back by a culture that says it's acceptable to pay them late.

'But despite years of campaigning from small businesses, and the first consultation over eight years ago the Tories have failed to legislate to make boards more accountable.

'Labour knows small businesses are vital for our economy, that's why we have set out how we would legislate to tackle late payments; requiring big businesses to report on their companys payment practices in their annual reports.'

Late payments are pushing small businesses already suffering with rising costs to the brink

Do more to help small firms, say industry leaders

The issue of businesses being paid late has 'spiralled out of control' according to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) trade body, and is stretching firms to their limits.

FSB research has found that if late payments had been made on time, 50,000 business closures could be avoided each year.

The Chancellor needs to take a strong stand against late payments FSB National Chair Martin McTague

National chair Martin McTague has called on the Government to do more to help small businesses with late payments in next month's Autumn Statement.

'Announcements in October about prompt payment reforms are a step in the right direction,' he said. 'Requiring more detail to be provided as part of payment performance is good, but this must be followed up with more powers to investigate and prevent poor payment practices.

'These should be the first steps towards sweeping reforms. Get it right, and we unlock a monumental 2.5billion into the economy each year.

'Going further, the Chancellor needs to take a strong stand against late payments at the upcoming Autumn Statement by making it clear that late payment will not be tolerated.

'It's time to send a powerful message to big businesses who use small ones to prop up their cash flow.'

A recent survey commissioned by the UK's largest accountancy bodies - the Association of Accounting Technicians and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants - found that MPs want more powers to be handed to the Small Business Commissioner (SBC).

This body was introduced in 2016 to tackle unpaid invoices, and the Government is currently reviewing its role and effectiveness.

The current commissioner Liz Barclay told This Is Money: 'No business should be paid late. All firms, and in particular small firms, need certainty about when money will reach their bank account.

'However, when times are economically difficult firms preserve cash, either through offering suppliers longer contractual payment terms or by paying after the due date of invoices.

'These poor payment practices are to the detriment of every business in the supply chain. Pay quick and don't expect suppliers to bankroll your business.'
A British expat who has lived in the Netherlands for nearly 10 years has revealed how he was chased down by ULEZ debt collectors with letters from three different countries - despite having a car which meets the emission standards.

Marcus Johnson, 36, told MailOnline he received warnings in the post from the UK, Germany and 2,700 miles away in Turkmenistan which demanded that he pay more than 1,000 (865) for supposedly breaching London's hated Ulez last year.

He was sent the letters despite his car being compliant and despite the fact it would have taken just moments for someone at Transport for London (TfL) to check his vehicle's status.

The medic, who comes to the UK by car around four times a year, has now blasted TfL for wasting time on 'unnecessary' admin and contracting debt collectors who are going after the wrong people abroad.

It comes after it was revealed that Sadiq Khan has given firms 151.8million in lucrative contracts to track down drivers who fail to pay Ulez penalties and other road fines. Despite this, more than 400,000 foreign drivers have dodged fines because TfL can't find their details.

Marcus, 36, has revealed how he received warnings in the post from the UK, Germany and even 2,700 miles away in Turkmenistan, which allegedly demanded that he pay more than 1,000 (865) for supposedly breaching Ulez rules. Pictured: Ulez camera

It comes after it emerged that Sadiq Khan has given firms 151.8million in lucrative contracts to track down drivers who fail to pay Ulez penalties and other road fines

Mr Johnson said that although the penalties were eventually dropped when he fought back against TfL, the local government body did not give him an apology and insisted that he had to register his foreign vehicle with them to avoid future fines.

He told MailOnline: 'It reminds me of the BBC TV Licence - everyone is guilty unless you demand money from them. They then either pay up or you have to prove your innocence.'

After being told to register his car, Marcus said: 'I thought there's not a chance I'm going to respond to you. 'You can waste taxpayers' money if you like chasing after me and countless people abroad'. '

Marcus moved to the Netherlands nearly a decade ago but still has family who live in London. He comes to the capital with his Ulez compliant car around three or four times a year.

Describing how he was hounded by Ulez debt collectors, he explained: 'Last year I got three letters in the post to my address in the Netherlands from TfL demanding essentially that payment was made and also saying I had made previous notices of fines.

'It was the first time I'd seen them. They were related to three different times I had been to London. But the letters I got when I looked into them came from a third party company in Germany and strangely in Turkmenistan.' He received another from Birmingham in the UK.

Marcus continued: 'I didn't respond to the Turkmenistan one but I responded to the Germany one because I am close by and let them know that essentially their debt collecting on behalf of TfL was futile as my car is actually Ulez compliant.'

The 36-year-old said that all it took on TfL's end was to type his car registration into their own website and it would have shown the car was compliant in the first place.

The hated Ulez was expanded from August 29 this year. The decision has sparked a major backlash

Pictured: A Ulez camera deliberately turned away from the road and marked with red paint

But he said he was told he had to prove his car was compliant by registering the vehicle.

'There just seemed to be no checking on their end,' he added. 'I did ask them how much they were spending on these third party debt collecting companies abroad but obviously that question wasn't answered either.'

He continued: 'I wasn't worried, I was more irritated that it seemed like unnecessary hassle that I would have to deal with on my end whereas on their end all it took was them to them to type several letters and numbers in a computer and it would have come up to confirm the car was compliant.

'I can't imagine how much money is being spent on the admin and also these debt collecting agencies. I think it's a huge waste of taxpayer money ultimately.'

MailOnline has seen an FOI request sent by Marcus asking TfL why they did not check to see if his car was Ulez compliant before sending the letters, how much it costs to employ foreign companies to track the owners of foreign cars and the amount spent on employing third-party companies.

TfL told Marcus that they do not pay third-party companies in Germany and Turkmenistan, adding that their service provider Euro Parking Collections 'may however use service providers who distribute mail through those countries'.

Last week, it emerged that Mr Khan has spent millions contracting four companies to chase motorists who are dodging the 12.50 daily charge for driving into the recently expanded Ulez with non-compliant vehicles.

The firms have been told to compile lists of persistent evaders - even if they are living abroad. They have also been tasked with gathering information on specific groups, according to contract details first seen by The Sun.

The debt collectors have also been instructed to go after those who fail to pay parking tickets, the congestion charge and other motoring fines.

At the end of last year, there was 255million worth of outstanding Ulez penalty notices.

More than 400,000 drivers have dodged a ULEZ fine because Transport for London 'can't find their details'

People who drive in the zone with a polluting vehicle and fail to pay the 12.50 daily fee are initially being sent warning letters. But in the coming weeks TfL is expected to start issuing rule-breakers with 180 fines, which could rise to 250. If paid within 14 days, it is reduced to 90.

One firm has been handed a 34.6million contract to chase Ulez fine dodgers who have gone abroad.

A second contract worth 117.2million has been spread out across three firms - debt recovery company Marston, enforcement agency Bristow and Sutor, and bailiffs JBW.

As part of the agreement, TfL wants Marston and Bristow and Sutor to hand over a monthly 'persistent evader' report.

JBW's role is to 'participate in intelligence-led enforcement activities targeting specific individuals or groups'.

The ten-year contracts were first awarded in 2020 - a year after the Ulez charge was launched in central London.

Earlier this week, a Freedom of Information request by MyLondon revealed that 417,080 fines were avoided between the start of January and the end of August this year because of this data shortfall.

The figures include a significant number of vehicles registered abroad, as the DVLA is a national database, none of them appear in the system - making it significantly more difficult to track them down.

Furious drivers set up tents and signs outside the Mayor of London's home in South London

487,925 penalties were also not issued in 2022 because of this same problem. TfL confirmed earlier this month that of the 168,000 fines given to foreign motorists in 2022 total around 12 million owed.

The Ulez expanded to cover all of London's 32 boroughs from August 29 in a move which has sparked massive protests, including serious damage being inflicted on cameras.

A TfL spokesperson said: 'As the DVLA can only provide data on UK-registered vehicles, we are unable to automatically tell if foreign-registered vehicles are compliant with the ULEZ.

'That's why we ask drivers of vehicles based abroad to pre-register for the ULEZ. If a driver has received a PCN they don't think is right, then we always ask them to contact us so we can cancel any incorrect fines, as we did for [Marcus].

'Our website has everything customers need to know in 18 languages and we work with the main ports and ferry companies so drivers know what to expect on arrival.

'Advertising has been appearing at key motorway service stations, and on petrol pumps, and Google Maps plus other third party way finding services provides information on where the ULEZ operates. We have also worked with all major foreign news agencies to publicise the requirements of the scheme ahead of the recent expansion.

'Following a vehicle registration in January 2023, and the submission of additional information, [Marcus's] vehicle was updated in our database as ULEZ compliant, and his outstanding PCNs from November 2022 were cancelled.'

Marcus's surname was changed.
In our lifetime, half of us will be diagnosed with cancer*. And one of the keys to surviving it is early diagnosis and prompt treatment.

However, while some symptoms of the disease are well known - such as lumps appearing on your body or moles changing appearance - many are not.

In our lifetime, half of us will be diagnosed with cancer. And one of the keys to surviving it is early diagnosis and prompt treatment

But being aware of them, and taking action quickly if you notice them, could save your life.

Know your body

The best way to protect yourself is to be aware of your body and any changes that are happening to it.

Thats because you know your body better than anyone  you know whats normal for you and whats not. Everyone is different. So, if something changes that worries you, its best to contact your GP practice as soon as possible.

The chances are its nothing serious and your mind will be put at rest. Or, if your doctor is concerned, they may refer you for tests. These, again, are more likely to rule out cancer, rather than confirm a diagnosis, and you can get on with your life.

But whatever the result, the NHS will be there to treat you every step of the way.

Spot it early

The thought you might have cancer is frightening. Theres the fear of the unknown, the thought of having to have lots of tests, operations and treatment, and then the worry of how it could impact your family.

Its easy to feel it would be better not to know or to put your head in the sand and ignore any symptoms.

But putting it off like this makes things much worse, because the earlier you spot it and ask for help, the better your chances.

Any delay could lead to your needing more complex treatment and a potentially worse outcome.

Blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma are particularly difficult to spot as their symptoms seem so general

And survival rates are increasing: they have doubled in the past 40 years, with half of us now expected to live for at least 10 years after diagnosis*. So contact your GP practice early to maximise your chances.

Cancer symptoms can come in different shapes and sizes, says NHS Englands National Clinical Director for Cancer, Professor Peter Johnson. Some can be less obvious than others, so its important to know what is normal for you so you can spot any changes.

We know that many people dont want to bother anyone with their health concerns  particularly if they are unsure about them  but we would always prefer you to contact your GP practice so that you can be checked.

If something in your body doesnt feel right, please come forward. It could be nothing serious, but it could save your life.

Is it blood cancer?

Blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma are particularly difficult to spot as their symptoms seem so general.

But combined, theyre the fifth most common cancer in the UK  and the most frequent in children  with around 41,000 people diagnosed every year.

So its vital to know the signs to look out for. They include:

Breathlessness

Drenching night sweats

Persistent, recurrent or severe infections

Unexplained fever

Unexplained rash or itchy skin

Pain in bones, joints or stomach

Fatigue

Unexplained weight loss

Unexplained bruising or bleeding

Lumps or swellings

Symptoms can vary, says Professor Peter Johnson. Some, such as breathlessness, night sweats or feeling tired when youre not sure why, can seem general. But if something doesnt feel right for you, contact your GP practice.

Anna, now 48, thought her symptoms were the flu when she was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 39

Despite working in a GP surgery, pharmacy dispensary assistant Anna Mamwell thought her symptoms were the flu when she was diagnosed with leukaemia aged 39.

I was fit and healthy; I was one of those people that never took a day off ill, she says. I counted myself as fairly well educated on health because of my job, so my diagnosis was even more of a shock.

She was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia  a very aggressive form of the disease with just a 15 per cent survival rate  after experiencing symptoms for about 10 to 14 days.

I thought I had flu initially, says Anna, from Louth, Lincolnshire. Id had this thumping headache that just wouldnt shift. I think that was the start of it, but, obviously, being a busy working mum, you carry on. It ultimately got to the point where I couldnt go to work. But I wasnt getting better and started to question what was going on.

I was feeling lethargic, had no appetite, was sweaty and feverish, had bone pain in my neck and a rash across my chest, but still didnt link it to anything.

Id had a really heavy period at the time, which was unusual for me; my periods usually lasted two days and were really light. Like many people, I wasnt aware that unusual heavy bleeding, whether its your period or a nosebleed, is a symptom of leukaemia.

Only 50 per cent of adults in the UK can name a symptom of blood cancer, which is is why I am advocating for body awareness.

Anna saw a nurse practitioner who gave her antibiotics and advised her to have blood tests.

That actually saved my life, says Anna, now 48. A few hours after I had my bloods done, my GP was on the phone. He said, I need you to go to hospital now, somethings wrong with your blood.

Ive seen my blood results now and they were way out and screaming leukaemia. Obviously he couldnt say that to me over the phone.

Staff were waiting for her when she arrived at Lincoln County Hospital and she had a bone marrow biopsy, which confirmed the diagnosis. Within 24 hours, she started intense chemotherapy for several months, and has now been in remission for eight years.

I find it quite ironic that someone like me, who was very aware of symptoms of all sorts of diseases, didnt pick up that I had symptoms of leukaemia.

Now, when people say, Oh, its probably nothing, I always say, Dont dismiss it, its your life. You have to be your own advocate. Early diagnosis is lifesaving  it can lead to better outcomes and better treatment options.

I was lucky that it was caught early'

David, 70, was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2013. He went to visit the GP after he started seeing blood in his urine. 'At that time I didnt think it was cancer; I thought it was a UTI,' he says

Retired IT consultant David Day, 70, lives near Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, with his wife, Christine. He was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2013. He says:

That December I started seeing blood in my urine every time I went to the toilet. There had been an NHS TV campaign earlier that summer about checking your urine for blood so, after about a week, I rang the GP practice.

At that time I didnt think it was cancer; I thought it was a UTI. But the doctor did a quick dip test and referred me to the urology department at Addenbrookes Hospital where I had a cystoscopy  a camera into the bladder.

I was awake and looking at the monitor, and saw what looked like a long-stemmed mushroom on the screen. I said, Whats that? The consultant said, Well talk about that in a minute. Then they got my wife from the waiting room. She had to do the walk of fear into the operating room. It was scary.

The consultant then said, Youve got bladder cancer. That mushroom was a tumour. That was a bit of a shock.

Within weeks, David had had surgery to remove the cancer and started a three-year course of BCG treatment into his bladder to help stop it returning.

I was lucky, says David. The consultant said, Weve caught it early enough  it was high grade but it hadnt spread.

Annual checks have so far shown no signs of recurrence, and David expects to be signed off next year.

He says: Thank goodness for that TV campaign because, to be honest, I probably wouldnt have taken it as seriously without it.

What symptoms should I look for? Some general signs that you might have cancer arent always easy to notice, but keep an eye out for: Breathlessness

Frequent infections

Unexplained night sweats

Unexpected or unexplained bruising or bleeding

Blood in your pee  even just once

An unexplained lump

Unexplained weight loss

Blood in your poo, which may look red or black For more information go to nhs.uk/cancersymptoms

This article is part of a paid-for partnership with HM Government.

*Cancer Research UK
It is the most famous prehistoric monument in the world, but not that long ago Stonehenge was a neglected ruin.

The 5,000-year-old stone circle on Salisbury Plain was once in private hands and therefore at the mercy of vandals and thieves looking to pocket a bit of history.

But, on this day in 1918, the monument was safeguarded forever when wealthy lawyer Cecil Chubb - who had bought it for 6,600 in 1915 - formally gave it to the nation.

His gift came with a series of conditions, including that the price to visit did not rise above one shilling - roughly 3 in today's prices.

Now though, a standard adult ticket to see the hugely popular monument is 20.90.

Until 1918, Stonehenge was privately owned. Above: The ancient monument is seen in 1870

Chubb had bought the Neolithic structure from the Atrobus family and immediately promised that it would be safe in his care.

Sir Edmund Antrobus had been the owner when, in 1901, the monument's tallest stone was re-erected.

When converted to today's prices, Chubb's payment was the equivalent of more than 500,000.

He admitted to the Daily Mail at the time that he initially had 'no intention' of buying it on the day it was auctioned off, but then his wife intervened.

The newspaper added: 'It is true that his wife at breakfast said she would like to own it.'

On opting to give it away, he told the Government in 1918: 'To me, who was born close to it and during my boyhood and your visited at all hours of the day and night, under every conceivable condition of weather - in driving tempests of hail, rain and snow, fierce thunderstorms, glorious moonlight and beautiful sunshine, it always has had an inexpressable charm.'

On this day in 1918, the monument was safeguarded forever when wealthy lawyer Cecil Chubb - who had bought it for 6,600 in 1915 - formally gave it to the nation. Above: Chubb with his wife Mary, who initially expressed her desire for her husband to buy Stonehenge over breakfast

An official handover ceremony took place and, in September 1919, Chubb was made a baronet by King George V

The Daily Mail's report of the 'gift to the nation'

Chubb's request that the annual admission fees - then around 360 - be given to the Red Cross amidst the ongoing carnage of the First World War was accepted by the Treasury.

His deed of gift also stipulated that the stones should be 'maintained in their present condition' as far as was possible.

However, Stonehenge was restored between 1958 and 1959 in an operation that saw the re-erection of some stones and the setting in concrete of other elements of the structure.

Further work was undertaken in 1964, when concrete was used to secure the stones in the outer circle after one of them had fallen over.

Chubb also wanted to ensure that 'no building' or 'pay box' be established within 400 yards of the monument.

Given that the visitor centre is more than a mile away from the structure, this request has been kept to.

Chubb, who was also had a keen interest in horseracing, died aged 58 in 1934.

Stonehenge began to become hugely popular with the widespread take-up of television in the 1960s, allowing millions of people to see exciting archaeological programmes.

Car ownership was also on the rise, making travel to the monument easier.

In 1927, a cafe was opened at Stonehenge but proved short-lived, closing just five years later.

It was not until 1950 that the National Trust then allowed a mobile tea bar in the car park.

The car park was extended in 1960, after underground toilets had been installed.

Sir Edmund Antrobus had been the owner when, in 1901, the monument's tallest stone was re-erected. Above: the work being carried out in 1901

Stonehenge was restored between 1958 and 1959 in an operation that saw the re-erection of some stones and the setting in concrete of other elements of the structure

One of the ancient stones is seen during the 1958 restoration as visitors watch on

The interior of the circle was surfaced with gravel in 1963 to protect the fragile archaeology.

In December 2013, a new visitor centre opened at the site.

In July this year, plans to build a road tunnel near the monument were approved despite fierce opposition.

Experts and campaigners had raised concerns about the environmental impact that the plan would have on the Unesco World Heritage site.

The project was initially given the go-ahead by the Government in 2020 despite advice from Planning Inspectorate officials it would cause 'permanent, irreversible harm' to the area.

The Save Stonehenge World Heritage Site alliance successfully challenged his decision in the High Court before a Development Consent Order (DCO) was granted by Transport Secretary Mark Harper.
Aussie charged massive credit card bill at Vietnam bars

He disputed the charges, which included 1400 shots of tequila

READ MORE: Car dealership's 'insulting' cash surcharge

An Australian businessman who was alarmed to find he had been charged $45,000 on his credit card after a couple of big nights out at two bars in Vietnam, has successfully challenged the massive bill.

The businessman, identified only as 'Mr S' in a ruling by the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA), had visited the bars Bottoms Up and Double Shots with a client in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Mr S admitted he had spent $3,300 but argued the other $41,700 - including charges for no less than 1,400 tequila shots and several more drinks - were fabricated by the bars.

In his complaint to AFCA, Mr S said he was given handwritten bills for much smaller charges and had handed over his card to make the payment.

Staff told him he did not need to enter his PIN or sign for the amounts and they could not provide him with receipts because of issues with their payment system.

An Australian businessman has successfully challenged a $45,000 Amex bill racked up at Ho Chi Minh city bars (pictured is the interior of Double Shots)

Mr S only became aware of the staggering charges when he returned from the trip in September 2022 and found his American Express card was maxed out, prompting him to look through his statement.

According to AFCA, he initially disputed the charges directly with Amex who contacted the bars and were provided with signed and itemised records for the full $45,000.

Amex wrote to Mr S informing him they had reviewed the charges and 'on the basis on information provided' and their own investigation, were satisfied the amounts were 'valid and correctly executed'.

But AFCA found each of the four invoices that made up the $45,000 in charges were simple Word files with the items listed in a table that was embedded in an email.

He visited two bars Bottoms Up and Double Shots

The Australian Financial complaints authority found a businessman was not liable for the amounts

AFCA found the files could have been made by 'anyone with basic computing skills' and that the bars should have known what documents would be needed to prove purchases, as bill disputes are not uncommon.

The AFCA adjudicator said: 'All four could have been (and I posit, were) created prior to the event, then a matching record of charge printed out for the exact total on each 'invoice' after bar staff had identified an unsuspecting card-holding 'mark'.

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'A foreign tourist or businessman such as Mr S was the ideal target.'

Signatures provided with the documents were 'scrawl' and did not match each other or Mr S's actual signature, AFCA said.

AFCA found under the ePayments code American Express was liable for the $41,700 that Mr S claimed he did not spend.

'The available information supports a finding on the balance of probability that the disputed charges were made without Mr S's knowledge or consent and were therefore unauthorised,' the adjudicator said.
The travel habits of Anthony Albanese's beloved dog Toto have come under scrutiny as it's revealed she has likely been travelling on VIP flights with the Prime Minister.

Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie grilled Air Force Chief Robert Chipman at an intense Senate hearing on Wednesday about Toto's travels.

'Could you provide a list of all flights since the 21st of May 2022 on which animals  and specifically an animal called Toto  have been permitted on-board special purpose aircraft?' she asked.

Mr Chipman confirmed that a pet had been known to travel on the special purpose aircraft primarily used by the Prime Minister for official duties.

'I am aware that there is a history of VIPs travelling with pets on VIP aircraft,' he said.

'(But) we do not keep comprehensive records of when animals travel on VIP aircraft.'

Mr Albanese is pictured with Toto after casting his vote in the federal election

Australia's First Dog Toto (pictured) is believed to have been travelling with the PM on the special purposes aircraft

Pets on VIP flights do not need to wear a muzzle but need to be restrained in some sort of harness, the air marshal said.

All animals remain the responsibility of the passenger - not the crew or pilot on board.

READ MORE: Why the PM felt the need to apologise to his pooch Advertisement

Senator McKenzie - who recently led a probe into the decision to block more Qatar Airways flights into Australia - sought to find out exactly how many times Toto had been a guest on the plane.

'Are animals recorded on the flight manifest?' she asked.

Mr Chipman said it was not standard practice to do so, but there had been occasions when the presence of an animal on a special purpose aircraft was 'annotated', so later added to the formal manifest.

'I have no records of how often [it happens],' he said.

'I know we have records to indicate that it has occurred.'

The government has been facing heat over its refusal to release certain details about special purpose flights, citing safety concerns for those on board.

But Ms McKenzie argued there 'surely' wouldn't be such a concern about releasing the identity of pets on board.

Mr Chipman confirmed that a pet had been known to travel on the special purpose aircraft primarily used by the Prime Minister for official duties

Toto is often pictured with the PM, and became a celebrity in her own right during the intense campaigning period ahead of the 2022 election

'The security coordination committee advice does not go specifically to naming animals on the aircraft,' Mr Chipman conceded.

But because of the haphazard way in which pet travel is recorded, Mr Chipman was unable to answer a direct question about the number of flights Toto in particular has taken since Mr Albanese became Prime Minister in May 2022.

Toto is often pictured with the Prime Minister, and became a celebrity in her own right during the intense campaigning period ahead of the 2022 election.

The pooch splits her time between her owner's residences at Kirribilli House in Sydney and The Lodge in Canberra when parliament is sitting.

'Toto has a particularly brand of dog food, it's the only one she will eat  yes, she's a princess,' the Prime Minister told Nova radio station earlier this year.
A 'creepy' psychiatrist who massaged a junior member of staff's breasts in an 'unnecessary and inappropriate' medical examination later claimed the young woman had been trying to 'tempt' him into touching her.

Dr Jamal Hilal, a Sudanese doctor based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has been banned from practising medicine after he pursued the trainee, named Ms B to protect her identity, in a 'crass and insensitive' attempt to seduce her.

The 62-year-old, who worked for Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear (CNTW) NHS Foundation Trust for almost 20 years, told the trainee she was the 'perfect woman', and quizzed her about her sex life, asking if she was 'experimental'.

His campaign culminated in a 'deplorable' incident in which he groped her breasts under the 'pretext' of performing a medical examination; a disciplinary panel concluded that the incident 'amount(ed) to sexual assault'.

Dr Hilal, who came to England in 1993, shot back with claims that the young woman was 'tempting me to touch her breast' and that she was in fact attracted to him - but these were thrown out by the panel.

Dr Jamal Hilal worked in the addictions service at Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear (CNTW) NHS Foundation Trust

Dr Hilal was found to have pursued his junior colleague in a 'crass and insensitive' way for sex

The Medical Practitioners' Tribunal Service (MPTS) heard that Ms B had been undertaking her first placement within the addictions service at the NHS trust when she first met the doctor on 1 August 2019.

On that day, Dr Hilal squeezed into a narrow space between the trainee and a wall, leant over her and placed his hand on her computer mouse as she sat at her desk - before asking if she was 'accommodating' and 'tolerant'.

A week later, on August 8, he asked her to come to his office with a female colleague - before changing his mind about inviting her co-worker and, with her alone in his office, said she was the 'perfect woman' and 'looked young'.

The doctor then sent her a message at 11.39pm that day, reading: 'Hello (Ms B), I guess you'll be asleep (sleeping emoji) now. I slept like a baby and just woke up...Phew...Will be a long night. Speak to you soon.'

Hugh Barton, for watchdog the General Medical Council (GMC), described the message as 'creepy' - a characterisation with which the panel agreed.

Dr Hilal had obtained her phone number, the panel ruled, after repeatedly insisting that she enter it into his phone. He claimed he was messaging her about guitar lessons.

But a week later, the doctor cornered the trainee in a workplace kitchen and demanded to know why she hadn't replied to his text.

He then said she looked 'tired', started massaging her neck and shoulders, and told her: 'I know what will wake you up,' despite her asking him to stop.

But Dr Hilal's behaviour plummeted to new depths the next day on August 16 when, alone with the woman in his office, he suggested she submit to a medical exam because she looked 'unwell'.

He took her bloods before returning to his office and asking her questions about her menstrual cycle, her sex life and whether she was experiencing pain in her breasts.

Dr Hilal then conducted a physical examination in which he touched her neck, collar bones, armpits and breasts, while telling her he could not 'feel (her) properly' as she had her bra on.

Horrified, Ms B asked him what he was doing and told him to stop - but he did not respond to her question, and continued to touch her.

Ms B's former partner, giving evidence to the tribunal, said that she phoned him immediately after the incident in 'great distress', telling him he had touched her.

Dr Hilal sent his young colleague a late night WhatsApp message after pestering her for her phone number - later claiming it was so he could speak to her about guitar lessons

Dr Hilal - pictured supporting a solidarity campaign for his home nation of Sudan - had worked for the NHS Trust for almost two decades

In written statements, Dr Jilal denied touching her, claiming only to have touched her hands before he became 'uneasy'; he also sought to claim during the hearing that she had been trying to 'tempt' him into touching her, and that she had been pursuing him sexually rather than the other way around.

But accounts given to the hearing by colleagues suggested that his behaviour had been protracted: one member of staff said that Ms B looked 'uncomfortable' whenever he was around, while a nurse said that the young worker had told her of feeling 'violated' after Dr Hilal carried out the unwarranted examination.

The panel found that Dr Hilal coaxed her into spending time with him at work by telling her she needed to spend time with him 'on a one-to-one basis' before he would sign a proficiency booklet as part of her placement.

He also tried to invite himself to her house, asked when she would be home alone, asked if she was 'experimental', blew her kisses and told her she was 'beautiful' on occasions throughout August 2019.

The tribunal concluded: 'This course of sexually motivated behaviour ultimately culminated in touching Ms Bs breasts in circumstances amounting to sexual assault.

'He had done so under the guise of a medical examination which was not being conducted for any legitimate reason, rather it was because of Dr Hilals sexual interest in her.

'The Tribunal determined that not only did these actions breach (good medical practice) but was also conduct that would be considered as deplorable by both members of the public and members of the profession alike.'

Dr Hilal was also found to have acted in an 'inappropriate and unprofessional' way towards another colleague, Ms A, after he wrapped his arm around her shoulder and hugged her, but the MPTS ruled this did not amount to 'serious misconduct'.

In choosing to strike him from the register, the panel noted his otherwise spotless record - but looked dimly on a lack of 'any expression of remorse...or acknowledgement of the potential impact of his behaviour'.

Ms B reported Dr Hilal to Northumbria Police shortly after the incident occured, and she, her former partner and several colleagues were interviewed by officers.

MailOnline understands that Dr Hilal was arrested as part of the investigation, but charges were never brought and no further action is being taken.

Dr Hilal continued working with the NHS Foundation Trust up until April 2023, the hearing was told.

According to his professional LinkedIn profile, Dr Hilal worked with the addictions service up until February 2022, and switched to working in general adult psychiatry.

Sources say he was placed in a 'non-clinical' role, away from patients, after the allegations against him came to light.

The NHS Foundation Trust employing him says 'appropriate action' will now be taken following the conclusion of the tribunal proceedings.

James Duncan, chief executive at CNTW NHS Foundation Trust said: 'As soon as these allegations came to light an investigation took place in line with our Trust policies.

'We were aware of the referral to the General Medical Council and now that the process has concluded we will take appropriate action.'

Dr Hilal did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
CCTV shared with DailyMail.com shows the two FBI agents flashing their badges and interviewing the inventor as well as pacing outside with a Geiger counter

The scientist, the founder of Falcon Space Lab in Hawthorne, said the feds told them they had received a tip about 'enriched uranium' being used at the site

FBI agents visited a New Jersey lab where scientists are trying to build a flying saucer  after they received a report of dangerous uranium being used on site.

Mark Sokol, founder of the Falcon Space laboratory in Hawthorne, New Jersey, told DailyMail.com he was shocked when two federal agents showed up at his shop last Friday.

Sokol said the more senior of the two agents told him they had been tasked by Bureau bosses with looking into Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP), the government term for UFOs  making him a kind of real-life Fox Mulder from the classic show The X-Files.

They didn't find any dangerous uranium, Sokol said, but were intrigued by the experiments going on at Falcon Space.

Sokol, 35, and his colleagues are attempting to use nuclear physics to make objects weightless, the first step towards building a functioning flying saucer.

CCTV shared with DailyMail.com shows two FBI agents grilling scientist Mark Sokol during a surprise visit to his lab in Hawthorne, New Jersey on October 20

Scientists and inventors are trying to build their own gravity-defying flying saucer in the Falcon Space laboratory in New Jersey

Sokol explained he and his colleagues have been working on experiments to make objects weightless  the first step towards building a functioning flying saucer  using this foil-lined Faraday cage that managed to reduce an object's weight by 17.8%

They are inspired by verified reports of strange unidentified objects flying in extraordinary ways in our skies, seas and space, which are now being openly investigated by the government.

Sokol told DailyMail.com his goal is to figure out the technology behind these objects, which some believe to be extraterrestrial craft.

CCTV shared with DailyMail.com shows the two FBI agents flashing their badges and interviewing the inventor as well as pacing outside with a Geiger counter  a device used to detect radiation  which showed no harmful radiation at the lab, he said.

'They showed up on Friday right around noon,' Sokol said. 'They flashed their badges, said ''FBI'', and asked if we had any enriched uranium.

'I laughed and told them no. One said that we're not in trouble and he wanted to come back at some point and pick my brain about UAPs because he's been tasked by the FBI, in investigating UAPs or UFOs.'

But if the senior agent is a real-life version of David Duchovny's Mulder, his partner didn't quite measure up to Gillian Anderson's Dana Scully.

Sokol said the more junior of the pair was fresh-faced and probably in his early 20s.

'They said they got a tipoff that I have enriched uranium. The only uranium we have here is a little piece that I got off Amazon to check our Geiger counter to make sure it's working.'

A spokeswoman for the FBI field office in Newark, New Jersey, told DailyMail.com: 'We receive information from the public each day through various reporting mechanisms.

Left to right: Jatin Parmar, Tom Butler, Mark Sokol, Wayne Ojala all working on an experiment at their lab in Hawthorne

Members of the Falcon Space laboratory plot their experiments to replicate UFO technology such as anti-gravity

Falcon Space was founded by Mark Sokol, who turned his battery manufacturing laboratory into a hub for scientists and inventors trying to crack the problem of anti-gravity

'In general, when we get information about a situation involving illegal and dangerous radiological or hazardous materials, our agents investigate it.'

The spokeswoman did not comment on whether their FBI office had a designated agent for UFO-related cases.

Sokol described his lab as a bootstrapped community of scientists, engineers, and inventors hoping to crack anti-gravity, warp drives, and other futuristic technologies.

They are funded by donations and a few private investors passionate about the topic.

'We're researching UFO propulsion, trying to figure out propellant-less propulsion concepts that have been theorized to work throughout the years,' he said.

'There's lots of papers and patents that have been put out. But we're a lab where we actually put those theories to the test.'

Some of their experiments test the theory that objects' mass comes from the jumbled directions in which the subatomic particles of their atoms spin.

If you can get those tiny parts to spin in the same direction, it will make them weightless, so the theory goes.

'We've seen up to 17.8% weight loss in one experiment,' Sokol said.

He believes once they can get above 90%, they'll be able to make a floating saucer.

Lab cofounder Jeremy Rys runs their YouTube channel Alien Scientist, where they post videos of their experiments and scientific discussions at their regular online 'Alternative Propulsion Engineering Conference'.

Lab cofounder Jeremy Rys said he was skeptical of the FBI visitors, noting that the senior agent had a background in financial crime investigations unrelated to X-Files-type probes

The agents appeared to be real-life versions of FBI special agents Fox Mulder, played by David Duchovny and Dana Scully, played by Gillian Anderson, from the hit sci-fi series The X-Files

Rys was skeptical of the FBI visitors, noting that the senior agent had a background in financial crime investigations unrelated to X-Files-type probes.

'They said they were interested in UAP and the kind of stuff he was doing at the lab. It could be a shoe in the door,' he said.

'Maybe they're trying to trick Mark into opening up more because they know it's his passion.

'If you lie to federal investigators in any way, even just telling them the time on a broken clock, they can later put charges against you.'

Though the government has not officially confirmed it is using FBI agents to conduct UFO-related investigations on the ground X-Files-style, there are several hints that this is the case.

In a presentation by Sean Kirkpatrick, director of the Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) in January, the DOJ was listed as one of the agency's 'key partners'

A 2021 law which created the latest incarnation of the Pentagon's UFO investigation office 'AARO' also ordered it to 'rapidly respond to, and conduct field investigations of, incidents involving unidentified aerial phenomena under the direction of the head of the Office'.

At a conference on January 11 this year, AARO director Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick presented a slide deck which listed the Department of Justice, ultimately responsible for the FBI, as one of its 'key partners and stakeholders'.

Kirkpatrick, a decorated physicist and intelligence official, also included one intriguing bullet point on his slides suggesting that AARO aimed to 'recover' downed UAP.

The slide said his office is involved in 'UAP detection, tracking, mitigation, and recovery'.

The US government has itself tried to build craft resembling classic flying saucers, though official records show it achieved little success.

In the 1950s the US Air Force hired a Canadian contractor to help it try to build a supersonic flying saucer.

DailyMail.com obtained a slides from Kirkpatrick's January 11 presentation which showed the steps AARO was taking to ensure UAP 'are effectively and efficiently detected, tracked, analyzed, and managed'

Kirkpatrick's presentation warned of 'threats to the immediate safety of US citizens and Government facilities'

Documents from the venture, codenamed Project 1794, were declassified in 2012, and include schematics that look like they come right out of a science fiction movie.

According to papers published by the National Archives, the saucer was designed to fly 'between Mach 3 and Mach 4, a ceiling of over 100,000 ft. and a maximum range with allowances of about 1,000 nautical miles'.

Despite indications of initial success at a relatively low cost, the project fizzled out after engineers apparently failed to get the craft flying higher than a few feet.

From 2015 to 2017 the US Navy filed for a series of patents for futuristic inventions including a triangular-shaped 'hybrid aerospace underwater craft' and a 'craft using an inertial mass reduction device'  or anti-gravity.

The supposed inventor, Dr. Salvatore Pais, boasted in the patent of possible 'extreme speeds' by his vehicle and the potential to 'engineer the fabric of our reality at the most fundamental level'.

But other physicists criticized the filings for their lack of specific technical details and allegedly nonsensical pseudoscience terms  fueling theories that the patents could just be propaganda to confuse America's adversaries.

The Navy told US engineering news site The Drive that they spent three years and $508,000 on the project, but ended it in September 2019 after failing to prove Dr. Pais' proposed science.

'No further research has been conducted, and the project has not transitioned to any other government or civilian organization,' a spokesperson for the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division told the site in 2021.
Britain's newly crowned 'wonkiest pub' has failed to sell at auction after its owners refurbished the venue and put it on the market for 170,000 just months after the title's former holder, the Crooked House, went up in flames.

The Tilted Barrel in Tipton, West Midlands, is just five miles down the road from the Crooked House pub, which was burnt down in a suspected arson attack in August this year.

The Grade-II listed property is now said to be the wonkiest in the UK, with its slant being attributed to mining subsidence in the 1800s.

Landlady Haych Mann took over the pub, which was built around 1820, in February this year and spent months refurbishing the inside of the 200-year-old boozer - but bidders failed to reach the reserve price of 178,000, meaning it remains unsold.

Local residents had been campaigning to have the Crooked House listed for its protection in the weeks before the fire, which gutted the building. The remnants of the pub were then demolished without planning permission.

Regular Carl Falconer poses outside The Tilted Barrel in Tipton - which failed to sell under the hammer on Wednesday

The pub is now regarded as Britain's wonkiest after the fire which saw the demise of The Crooked House

Birmingham-based auctioneers Cottons had hoped the pub would sell for far more than its listed price, but the lot fell on deaf ears when it went under the hammer on Wednesday.

The auctioneer attempted to open bidding at 180,000, but failed to get a single bidder interested until dropping the price to 160,000.

Although bidding rose to 170,000, there were no takers for 172,000 meaning the guide price was not met and the auctioneer declared the property unsold, the Express and Star reported.

Landlady Haych, 38, who took over The Tilted Barrel in February, said she 'fell in love' with the venue, which is her first pub venture.

Speaking after the Tilted Barrel took over the moniker of 'Britain's wonkiest pub' following the Crooked House fire on August 5, she said: 'It's a bitter sweet moment.

'Most of our regulars drank in the Crooked House too. I'm a local girl so I knew the pub well and we have lost an iconic pub in the Crooked House.

Wreckage at the site of The Crooked Pub after the burnt-out building was demolished without permission

The Tilted Barrel has taken over the title from The Crooked House, which burnt down in August (pictured before demolition)

The pub had a guide price of between 170,000 and 178,000

'So I'm both sad and proud at the same time to learn we might now have that title.

'It's certainly not something I'm celebrating as the Crooked House was a landmark and a piece of Black Country history.'

She added: 'I just fell in love with the place. It was just really unique and quirky. It was a bit run down when I took it over, I couldn't believe people were drinking in here in the state it was in but at the same time I thought it was brilliant.

'We've had a refurb and business is picking up as people have read about us online. I looked at a few pubs, which were probably nicer, but this one was different and it really appealed to me.

Due to the Grade II listing status on the Tilted Barrel, it is unlikely any new owner will be allowed to alter the building's appearance.

The Crooked House pub was engulfed in a fire in August, now suspected to be arson.

Six people have been arrested by police over the inferno, which saw the historic pub gutted as local residents tried to have the 18th century venue listed to protect it.

Police said their investigation into the fire at the pub continues and urged anyone with information to contact the force.
READ MORE: Mum who complained about paedophile was accused of SEXISM

A South Australian man faces up to 30 years in prison after allegedly watching and directing live online child abuse material made in the Philippines.

Andrew Donald Steele, aged 65, appeared in Adelaide Magistrates Court via videolink on Thursday, the same morning the Australian Federal Police announced two of his alleged victims had been rescued from child sex abuse in the Philippines.

It's alleged he paid $50,000 to watch the children's abuse online.

The international investigation was triggered in May when officers from the Australian Border Force allegedly discovered child abuse material on Steele's phone at Adelaide Airport when he returned from a Bali trip.

Australian Federal Police were notified about the alleged material and executed a search warrant at Steele's Yankalilla home, 70km south of Adelaide, on May 24.

Police allege forensic searches of electronic devices seized at the property contained 'additional child abuse material involving live online child sexual abuse'.

Andrew Donald Steele, aged 65, was arrested in May for allegedly possessing child abuse material (pictured, the man, pictured wearing a grey tracksuit and ugg boots, being arrested)

The 65-year-old was arrested on May 31 and his case was adjourned until 2024 as AFP officers declared 'further disclosures' were found in the case.

He was expected to enter a plea to nine charges, which include the persistent abuse of a child outside of Australia and the possession of child abuse material, but it is now expected further charges will be added.

Footage shows officers leading Steele, dressed in a grey tracksuit and ugg boots, to a police car in May, and video of police arriving at the home in Bohol.

He was charged with one count of persistent sexual abuse of a child outside Australia, one count of using a carriage service to transmit child abuse material, one count of producing and distributing child abuse material outside Australia, five counts of possessing or controlling child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service and one count of importing tier two goods.

The maximum penalty for persistent sexual abuse of a child is 30 years behind bars.

South Australia's Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team contacted AFP international Liaison Officers in Manila about its investigation and the matter was passed onto the Philippines Internet Crimes Against Children Center.

PICACC's investigation led to the identification of the two girls in Bohol and they were rescued from the home to be placed into the care of child protection services.

Two girls (above) were rescued from a home on Bohol island after Australian Federal Police alerted Filipino authorities

Police alleged found (pictured, a woman outside the Bohol home) 'child abuse material involving live online child sexual abuse' on Steele's electronic devices

AFP Sergeant Joe Barry said this case highlighted the strength of the AFP's network and the commitment of all agencies to protect children around the world.

'The ability to share intelligence and resources with international partners is vital so that law enforcement can target and arrest those who prey on children,' he said.

'Child sexual abuse is an abhorrent crime and victims are re-victimised every time images or videos of the crimes are accessed and shared.'

AFP Manila Liaison Officer Detective Sergeant Daisie Beckensall said international partnerships are critical in fighting online child exploitation.

'The close partnerships between the AFP Manila office and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Anti Human Trafficking Division during this investigation highlights the importance of working together to remove children from harm.'

ABF Inspector Mel Duncan reminded anyone entering Australia, their electronic devices can be searched at the border as part of the effort to detect and disrupt illegal activity.

Steele (above) faced nine charges relating to child abuse material in Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday

Mr Steele will answer the charges against him on February 6, 2024. Picture: Facebook

'While we of course wish our officers never had to come across this type of abhorrent material, it is results like this that underline the critical importance of our role in carefully inspecting digital devices at the border,' she said.

'Through the use of sharp intelligence, targeting and profiling techniques, ABF officers helped trigger an investigation that has removed two vulnerable children from harm's way.'

Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse are urged to contact the ACCCE at www.accce.gov.au/report.

If you know abuse is happening right now or a child is at risk, call police immediately on 000.
US President Joe Biden has warned Australia to be cautious trusting China as Anthony Albanese tries to repair relations with the communist nation.

The President made the comments during Mr Albanese's visit to the White House in Washington DC this week, days before the Prime Minister visits Beijing.

Biden was asked at a joint press conference with Mr Albanese if he believed Australia should trust China given its history with economic sanctions, cyber-attacks, surveillance and human rights abuses.

'Trust but verify is the phrase,' the President responded.

'China is having their own internal and external difficulties right now.

US President Joe Biden (pictured right with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese) has warned Australia to be cautious trusting China

'China's economic growth is stagnant compared to what it was. China has engaged in activities, that Russia and many others have engaged in, in terms of intimidation with other countries.'

Biden also warned China about its recent harassment of Philippine vessels in the South China Sea.

'Any attack on Filipino aircraft, vessels or armed forces will invoke our mutual defense treaty with the Philippines,' he said.

'I want to be very clear. The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad.'

In 2021, President Biden established a trilateral security alliance named AUKUS, involving Australia and Britain.

This partnership allows the United States to provide Australia with nuclear technology, which will be used to power traditionally armed Australian submarines.

President Biden said he was 'confident' Congress would fund AUKUS.

'It's overwhelmingly in our interest,' he said.'

'When...we put together the deal, I was asked by Xi Jinping were we just trying to surround China. I said, 'No, we're not surrounding China. We're just making sure that the sea lanes remain open.'

'He doesn't get to unilaterally be able to change the rules of the road in terms of what constitutes international airspace and water space, et cetera. And so, that's what this is all about.'

President Biden revealed that Chinese President Xi Jinping (pictured) had previously asked him why the US 'worked so hard' with Australia

He revealed the discussion with China's leader during conversations with Mr Albanese inside the Oval Office

Earlier during the visit, Biden said China's leader had asked him why the US was 'working so hard' with Australia.

'I said, 'because we're a Pacific nation',' President Biden said.

'We are, and we're going to stay that way.'

Mr Albanese used his speech to stress the importance of Australia's ties with the US and affirmed his goal to keep the Indo-Pacific region 'free, open, prosperous and secure'.

'The relationship between Australia and the United States has never been more important - and, of course, it has never been stronger than it is right now,' he said.

'Our efforts through AUKUS are one of the many ways we are working together to deter aggression and support a free and open Indo-Pacific that is secure and stable.'

Mr Albanese is scheduled to meet with President Xi in Beijing - the first trip to China's capital by an Australian leader since Malcom Turnbull visited in 2016.

Mr Albanese said Australia would 'co-operate where we can' with China and 'disagree where we must but engage in our national interest'.

'It is in Australia's interests, as well as China, but I believe in the global interest for us to have a relationship where there is dialogue,' he said.

'Through dialogue comes understanding and comes a diffusion of tension. We want a peaceful and secure region.'
Americans want to send more financial and military aid to Israel in the wake of the devastating Hamas attack but oppose the idea of deploying U.S. troops to fight alongside Israeli forces, according to a DailyMail.com poll.

Republican voters turn out to be the most supportive of putting American boots on the ground, with 46 percent in favor and 36 opposed.

The result shows how the horrifying attack by Hamas has galvanized support for Israel, and at the same time provides an exception to Republicans' increasingly isolationist foreign policy.

The poll was conducted by J.L. Partners in the immediate aftermath of the attack. Some 1,000 people were asked for their views.

Overall, majorities (55 percent) said they wanted the U.S. to provide more financial and military aid to Israel. Some 27 percent and 28 percent were opposed, respectively.

A majority of Americans supports sending more financial and military aid, but opposes sending U.S. troops to fight alongside Israeli forces after the Hamas terrorist attack

Israeli army Puma armored personnel carriers (APCs) move in a column near the Gaza border in southern Israel. Israel is preparing for a major military operation to snuff out Hamas

The number in favor dropped to 32 percent when it came to putting American boots on the ground, except among Republicans among whom more supported the idea than opposed it.

'One remnant of the old Republican order still stands in the modern GOP: military support for Israel,' said James Johnson, co-founder of polling firm J.L. Partners.

'Republican voters are supportive of US troops heading to the region and Americans continue to take a highly hostile view of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran.

'Even Democrats in a recent focus group we conducted with Breaking Points supported US troops helping Israeli troops defend current Israeli borders.'

But that could change, he added.

'Be on the look out for one thing: the role of Donald Trump,' Johnson said.

'History shows that if he marks out a view, much of the Republican base is sure to follow. If he were to vocally oppose any deployment of troops, expect the polls to shift.'

Trump pushed hard to bring home troops on overseas deployments and was keen to end the war in Afghanistan. Since then he has lambasted President Joe Biden for deepening U,S. engagement in the war in Ukraine.

Then came a fresh Middle East crisis, and the risk of major conflagration as Iran jockeys for power and influence.

Republicans are far more likely to support deploying boots on the ground in Israel

Israel has kept up an intense bombardment of Gaza ever since the unprecedented attack by Hamas terrorists that killed more than 1,200 people

President Joe Biden is greeted by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he arrived on Israeli soil last week. He spent seven hours in Tel Aviv in a show of support

In the past three weeks Biden has offered full-throated support for Israel, ever since 1400 people were killed in a terrorist attack almost three weeks ago.

He has strengthened U.S. force deployments  dispatching two U.S. aircraft carrier strike groups to the region  and last week he made the case for offering financial aid.

'History has taught us that when terrorists dont pay a price for their terror, when dictators dont pay a price for their aggression, they cause more chaos and death and more destruction. They keep going,' he said in a rare address from the Oval Office.

'And the cost and the threat to America in the world keep rising.'

The Pentagon has also sent senior officers to Israel in advisory roles.

Israel is preparing for a ground invasion of Gaza, from where the Hamas terrorists launched their attack.

Its forces have put the small Palestinian territory under virtual siege, choking off supplies of food, fuel, water and medicine apart from a small number of aid trucks entering from Egypt.

JL Partners polled 1000 Americans on attitudes towards Israel and Hamas. They backed a ground invasion and occupation of Gaza by a margin of two to one

Among all survey respondents, 39 percent said the U.S. should prioritize giving funding to Israel and Ukraine equally, which is what President Joe Biden pitched in an Oval Office address Thursday night

President Joe Biden addressed the American people last week and urged lawmakers to pass a spending package that included funds for both Ukraine and Israel

At the same time it has kept up an aerial bombardment.

That response is broadly backed by the American public, according to the DailyMail.com poll.

Some 50 percent believe it is reasonable for the Israeli Defense Forces to fully invade and occupy the territory, compared with 28 percent who said it would be unreasonable.

There is also overwhelming support for air strikes on Hamas targets.

The only groups who said a ground invasion and occupation were unreasonable were people aged 18-29 (27 percent said it was reasonable; 49 percent unreasonable) and Democrats (38 percent to 39 percent).

Americans also narrowly support a blockade of electricity, food, water and fuel. Some 45 percent said it was reasonable, and 36 percent said it was not.

A breakdown of President Joe Biden 's request to Congress for a $100billion spending package shows more than half will go to support Ukraine while just $14billion has been set aside for US border security

At the same time, Biden must navigate a divide among voters, and in Congress, on how to allocate aid between Israel and the war in Ukraine.

Poll results found that Republican voters massively favor sending aid to Israel over Ukraine compared to their Democratic counterparts.

Some 40 percent of Republicans believe funding for Israel should be prioritized over Ukraine, while just 4 percent of Democrats hold that same view.

The bulk of Democrats, 53 percent, believe the U.S. should support the two crisis-hit allies equally. About a third of Republicans, 32 percent, share this view.

Just three percent of Republicans believe Ukraine should be prioritized, as members of the GOP - both on Capitol Hill and on the campaign trail - have become more critical of U.S. dollars going to the war effort against Russia.

About a quarter of Democrats, 22 percent, say Ukraine should be the priority.
Extraordinary footage has resurfaced of Anthony Albanese addressing supporters at a free Palestine rally early on in his political career.

The decades-old grainy footage shows the future Prime Minister condemning the actions of the Israeli military at a protest at Martin Place in Sydney's CBD.

The clip obtained by Sky News shows Mr Albanese among a crowd of protesters standing next to a banner that reads, 'Stop the Israeli slaughter, free Palestine now'.

He's seen using a megaphone to condemn Israel's actions.

The old footage shows the future Prime Minister addressing the crowd on a megaphone at a pro-Palestine rally in Sydney

'The response of Israel has been to meet children throwing rocks with helicopters, with tanks and with missiles,' the future Prime Minister is heard saying.

The footage captions Mr Albanese as a 'federal Labor MP'. He's been the member for Grayndler since 1996.

READ MORE: Sydney train driver who played pro-Palestine song over loudspeaker identified by transport bosses Advertisement

The clip was aired by Sky News host Sharri Markson on her program on Wednesday night as she slammed the Prime Minister's 'staggering' comments this week on the Hamas-Israel conflict.

'Mr Albanese has over his entire career spoken out against Israel and in support of Palestinians,' she said.

'We're now seeing Albanese show his true colours. He could only stay on message for so long.''

Mr Albanese did slam the pro-Palestine rally held outside the Sydney Opera House on October 9, saying it was 'horrific' and admitting it should not have gone ahead.

Members of the rally were heard chanting 'gas the Jews', others hurled flares at the police while some attempted to set fire to the Israeli flag before stomping on it.

The Prime Minister is currently in the US where he's met US President Joe Biden at the White House and attended a state dinner on Wednesday.

He recently announced that he won't be visiting Israel, unlike President Biden, sparking questions from Australian Jewish leaders.

The prime minister is also yet to speak with Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu since Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7.

A younger Anthony Albanese (circled) early on in his political career was spotted at a Sydney protest condemning the actions of the Israeli military

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (second left) and his partner Jodie Haydon (left) are currently on a US. They're pictured at the White House with US President and wife Jill (right)

It comes as Mr Albanese refused to respond to calls from French president Emmanuel Macron for world leaders to join forces to fight Hamas.

'Our priority has been getting people in Israel but also in Gaza, who want to leave and are Australian citizens, out,' Mr Albanese told reporters in the US this week.

'We've also continued to emphasis the importance of humanitarian support for people in Gaza.'

'I continue to emphasise that Australia's position is for the protection of innocent lives, we mourn as a nation every innocent life which has been lost in the conflict, whether it be Israeli or Palestinian.'

Australian Jewish Association president David Adler criticised Mr Albanese for not making a trip to Israel.

'He's on a trip (to the US) at the moment, we would have liked to see him go via Israel to show solidarity at this time,' Mr Adler said.

'There has yet to be a senior Australian representative to make that gesture. It should be the prime minister as the leader of the country.

'The trip should have been arranged, he is in the northern hemisphere anyway and showing solidarity would have been well-received.'
Shocking footage has emerged of a woman dressed in athleisure striking a staff member at a supermarket after he attempted to check her bag.

The incident occurred at the Silver Sands IGA in Mandurah, south of Perth, at about 2:20pm on Tuesday.

The woman, who was dressed in eshay-favoured gym wear, had attempted to leave the store through a blocked exit when she was asked by a male staff member to check her bag.

CCTV footage of the incident shows the worker grabbing the woman's bag as she tries to leave the store.

The woman is then seen rushing back into the store and striking the man in the back of the head twice before yelling at him.

Police are searching for information and the identity of a woman (pictured) who attacked a staff member at an IGA in Mandurah, south of Perth, on Tuesday afternoon

READ MORE: Retail worker reveals the TWELVE biggest 'icks' that customers do Advertisement

The pair continued to fight over the bag before another customer approached to try and de-escalate the situation.

The scuffle ended when two other staff members came to help their colleague, allowing the woman to take her bag and leave.

Mandurah Police are investigating the incident.

Police have urged anyone with information, including the woman's identity, to contact Crime Stoppers.

Daily Mail Australia contacted IGA for more details.
A Florida mom, 33, has been arrested after allegedly leaving her two-year-old and eight-month-old baby alone in a car while she went to a bar.

Jamie Leigh Gunn was charged with child neglect after a patrol officer spotted her two kids asleep in the backseat of a black SUV parked on Minton Road, Florida on Sunday.

Police said Gunn had been inside Penny Annie's Bar for at least 20 minutes while her young children were left unattended in the unlocked, running vehicle.

Gunn was taken to the Brevard County Jail where she was held on a $15,000 bond before being released on Monday, according to the West Melbourne Police Department.

Jamie Leigh Gunn, 33, was charged with child neglect after a patrol officer spotted her two kids asleep in the backseat of a black SUV parked on Minton Road, Florida

'When Gunn learned law enforcement was outside with her vehicle, she was more concerned about going to jail, than the welfare of her children,' police said.

Gunn's children are now in the custody of a family member but it remains unclear who they were given to.

The Department of Children and Families has also been contacted to conduct a follow-up investigation into the shocking incident.

The 33-year-old has a hefty rap sheet which includes contempt of court, forgery, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license.

It remains unclear if her license remains suspended.

Police said Gunn had been inside Penny Annie's Bar(pictured) nearby for at least 20 minutes while leaving her children unattended

Apart from this most recent arrest, Gunn was taken into custody July 2022 when she was charged with a fail-to-appear misdemeanor for one of her prior crimes.

Brevard County Sheriff's Office records show that she was also arrested in 2010 for a fail-to-appear felony but more details were not provided.

DailyMail.com has contacted West Melbourne Police Department and Gunn for comments.

When speaking with Penny Annie bar, a member of staff gave little detail about Gunn being there and said they 'hadn't seen her for a long time.'

When asked if other employees had seen Gunn that night, the staffer said: 'We have nothing to say about it.'
This is the terrifying moment a drug dealer known as the 'TikTok Narco Queen' was executed in broad daylight in Chile.

Chilling video recorded by a bystander showed Sabrina Duran, 24, lying face down in the middle of a street in Santiago on Tuesday morning after being shot by a masked assailant.

Duran, a mother-of-one, was on her way to a nail salon when she was stopped by three men in the Santiago town of Padre Hurtado, local news outlets reported.

In the footage Duran is already seen laying on the ground trying to get up when a gunman steps forward and fires multiple shots before using her vehicle to escape.

WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT

A gunman aims his weapon before murdering Sabrina Duran, the leader of a drug gang who was also known as the 'TikTok Narco Queen,' in Santiago, Chile, on Tuesday

Sabrina Duran was arrested in 2022 on drug trafficking charges and was sentenced to three years, but last month was conditionally released and allowed to serve it under home confinement

No motive has been provided by the Chilean police, although sources with knowledge of the investigation said the chilling murder was linked to 'settling scores.' No other information about who or why was provided.

Authorities found Duran's vehicle in flames in the town of Quilicura.

'We are expanding the field of investigation to see if there are more motivating (factors),' police major Leonel Munoz told reporters.

Duran was arrested in 2022 on charges that she was the leader of a local drug gang and was sentenced to three years for drug trafficking.

She attempted to escape prison by jumping from the third floor with other inmates before they were all captured.

Duran was also known for promoting beauty products on her TikTok account to more than 467,000 followers

Duran was gunned down on a street in Santiago, Chile, on Tuesday. The 24-year-old had been convicted for drug trafficking and was serving a three-year sentence under home confinement

Duran amassed more than 467,000 followers on TikTok, where she's been promoting beauty products since 2021.

On Monday, she uploaded a video reviewing items she's received from DCM cosmetic.

DCM Cosmetic owner Chanel Morales told LUN newspaper that she looked past Duran's troubled background.

'I looked to her because she has many followers,' Morales said.

'She attracted a lot of attention on TikTok because she was the Narco Queen, a bad girl, but her appearance and voice demonstrated the opposite.

'She was very sweet. She liked to support virtual small and medium companies.'
Some of New York's most iconic restaurants are being plagued by bots that snap up customers' reservations and then upsell them for hundreds of dollars.

Owners of iconic eateries like Carbone and Don Angie - the West Village social media sensation seen widely on TikTok - say the issue began last summer, but has become more prevalent in recent months.

Reminiscent of the tech that's swiped- and price-gauged - Taylor Swift tickets and collectible sneakers, the seat-snatching programs bag reservations in milliseconds, with operators proceeding to sell them back to customers for a profit.

Sites being used by the resellers include Appointment Trader and Resy, with the latter now saying it has taken measures to combat the bots.

Reps from the website - as well as several local eatery owners - told Bloomberg how they now look for suspicious behavior like emails comprised of jumbled numbers and letters, or disconnected numbers and phony credit cards to unmask scalpers.

Some of New York's most iconic restaurants are working to stop bots from stealing others' reservations - before upselling them on platforms that enable individuals to exchange reservations. Pictured is Carbone, where tables are typically gone by 10:01 am, 30 days out

Owners of iconic eateries like Carbone and Don Angie - the West Village social media sensation seen widely on TikTok and in this photo - say it's an issue that largely began last summer, but has become more prevalent in recent months

The measures have helped, Em Pak, a manager at 'Best Bar in North America' Double Chicken Please, told the publication - but the issue still persists.

She said patrons now need to fork over at least $300 just to walk in the door of his high-profile eatery, thanks to upselling websites like ResX and Dorsia.

GN Chan, co-owner the LES hotspot, added: 'It is a very serious issue now, happening to a lot of restaurants and bars.'

He explained how the posh drinking den was first bombarded with bots after being named the best bar on the continent this year by worlds50bestbars.com.

In response, he said he has cut down on the number of reserved seats being offered, choosing to welcome more walk-ins instead.

Pak, meanwhile, explained some of the ways she and other staffers weed through the rest of the reservations to distinguish who is a real customer.

Accounts connected to invalid email addresses, or profiles with a history of booking prime time, back-to-back reservations on weekends are red flags, she said - while the more common disconnected phone numbers and invalid credit cards also serve as indicators.

However, even with this increased scrutiny, she told Bloomberg how, at times, it's still impossible to tell - 'and we dont want to risk canceling a reservation that belongs to someone who authentically booked.'

Staffers at West Village fixture Double Chicken Please - which earlier this year was named the best bar in North America, told Bloomberg how they now look for suspicious things like emails comprised of jumbled numbers and letters, or disconnected numbers and phony credit cards

The measures have helped, Em Pak (left), a manager at the Lower East S, told the publication - but the issue still persists. GN Chan, co-owner the LES hotspot, added: 'It is a very serious issue now, happening to a lot of restaurants and bars'

4 Charles Prime Rib, a highly exclusive restaurant in the Financial District, has reportedly also been subjected to the relatively recent wave of bots

This, she explained, caused the business to not only miss out on the $20 cancellation fee typically charged to invalid credit cards, but time and even customers and revenue as well.

Chan, meanwhile, said he has seen seats at his bar selling for $340 a piece on marketplaces like Cita, another new website that allows diners to buy and sell reservations.

He went on to explain how guests now expect more of him and other staff after being forced to drop a few hundred dollars just to get in the door, giving customers '[the] wrong expectation when they come.'

Pak added how some sites like Resy, which runs the reservations for Double Chicken Please, have slowly begun to take action, by 'deleting confirmed bot profiles and sending what are essentially cease and desist emails to broker profiles,' she said.

Others like Appointment Trader, however, have been slower to act - with bidding on seats that range up to $125 for any day weeks in advance allowed to go unmonitored.

Another restaurant affected by the new phenomenon is Don Angie, where Grub Street earlier this year said reservations are commonly sold for up to $200.

Another eatery reportedly being burned by bots Tribeca's highly visited Farra Wine Bar.

While some third-party reservation sites have taken measures to combat the rash of robo reservation, sites like Appointment Trader (pictured) have been slower to act - with bidding on seats that range up to $125 allowed for any day weeks in advance allowed to go unmonitored

Don Angie owners Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli told Bloomberg Wednesday how the issue of seats disappearing began last summer, and how staff are now forced to contact customers one-by-one to ensure that they are real

Chef-owners Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli told Bloomberg Wednesday how the issue of seats disappearing began last summer, though Rito added: 'But it has become more pronounced over the last few months.'

4 Charles Prime Rib, a highly exclusive restaurant in the Financial District, has also been subjected to the rash of robotic reservations, along with Tribeca's highly visited Farra Wine Bar.

Meanwhile, places like Carbone - which recently lost its Michelin Star but is still one of the most recognizable haunts of the city - tables are typically gone by 10:01 am, 30 days in advance, less than a minute after they are posted.

For now, the only solution for fed up owners is 'a lot of added time and effort,' Rito told the publication, as she and her staff are now forced to contact customers one-by-one to ensure that they are real.
An all-girls Catholic school has been slammed over a policy that bans teenagers in a same-sex relationship from attending the formal together.

Abbie Frankland, who is in a same-sex relationship, blasted the 'discriminatory' policy at St Ursula's College Kingsgrove, in Sydney.

The outraged final year student has launched a change.org petition demanding a change, with the call already attracting almost 4,000 signatures.

'My girlfriend and I, along with many other students at St. Ursula's in Kingsgrove NSW, Australia, have been eagerly awaiting the school formal for months,' Ms Frankland said.

'We've purchased non-refundable tickets and outfits in anticipation of this event.

'However, we've recently discovered that the school does not allow same-sex couples to attend the formal together.

Abbie Frankland (pictured left), a student in a same-sex relationship, who accused St Ursula's Colleges Kingsgrove of discrimination after she claimed to have been banned from its end-of-year formal

'This policy not only discriminates against LGBTQ+ students but also puts us in a difficult financial situation as we are left with non-refundable tickets and clothes that were bought specifically for this occasion.'

Ms Frankland noted that 61.6 per cent of Australians voted in favour of same-sex marriage in a 2017 postal survey. Legislation to allow it was passed on December 9 that year.

The proportion of 15-24 year-olds in Australia who identify as LGBTQIA+ is 32 per cent, according to a survey by youth engagement website Youthsense.

READ MORE: Christian school demands parents sign contract that allows it to expel gay students Brisbane's Citipointe Christian College has asked parents to sign an enrolment contract that allows it to expel a child who comes out as gay, just a week before the school year begins. Advertisement

Ms Frankland's petition has so far drawn in thousands of signatures, including one from the sister of NSW premier Chris Minns.

'Excluding people based on sexual orientation does not model Christ-like love or acceptance,' Sarah Minns commented on the change.org page.

Another former student claimed in 2017 the school relaxed the policy after students complained.

'This exact same argument played out before the 2017 Formal.

'Don't let them tell you that it's 'always been the rule', because after much argument former female students and female partners of students were eventually able to attend.'

'So disappointing to see that 6 years on the school are still stuck in their old ways.'

Others described the policy as 'draconian' and even 'disgusting'.

'It's 2023 and I can't believe we're still having this kind of problem,' another woman wrote.

'Let people love who they love for God's sake.'

Another person pointed out: 'I note the Pope has recently opened the door to blessing same-sex couples.'

This month Pope Francis released a statement suggesting blessings for same-sex unions may be possible with some conditions.

St Ursula's College is a Catholic school and has several policies on high profile social and cultural issues, such as bullying, wellbeing and students with complex social and emotional needs.

Thousands of people have signed a petition calling on St Ursula's College Kingsgrove to allow LGBTQ + students at the event after gay students were allegedly told they coudn't attend

It also has policies covering domestic violence, gifted students, 'modern slavery' and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Policy.

The school's wellbeing policy refers to a framework devised with Beyond Blue, which has a strong stance on what makes 'mentally healthy' school communities.

Beyond Blue says 'the convention on the rights of the the child states that children aren't to be discriminated against for their individual differences'.

These include on the basis of gender, gender identity or sexuality.

An exemption to the Sex Discrimination Act allows 'religious bodies' and 'educational institutions established for religious purposes' to discriminate against people on the basis of some attributes protected by the SDA.

Equality Australia Anna Brown told Daily Mail Australia that the school's policy as 'outdated' and a 'silly' reason to ruin a young person's 'rite of passage'.

'Marring this personal milestone with silly prejudice and outdated rules helps nobody, protects nothing and instead ruins what should be a joyous step in a young person's journey to adulthood,' Ms Brown said.

'The overwhelming majority of Australians voted yes to marriage equality and it's time for religious schools to catch up with community expectations.'

Ms Brown said laws exempting religious schools from discrimination should be changed 'to reflect what the vast majority of Australians already believe, including people of faith'.

A St Ursula's College Kingsgrove spokesman declined to comment on the matter.

'Sydney Catholic Schools is not commenting on the matter which is being addressed at a school level,' he said.

'Our priority is seeing our students through to the end of the HSC and 13 years of school with as little disruption as possible.'
Over 40 confidential FBI sources say there's evidence of criminal activity committed by Joe, James and Hunter Biden with accusations of the Department of Justice shutting them down.

In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley said that the sources had been managed by different FBI field offices and supplied the bureau with details of potential crimes by the Biden's.

According to the letter seen by DailyMail.com, Grassley learned that an FBI task force within the Washington Field Office sought to, and managed to, successfully shut down reporting from those sources by falsely discrediting the information.

Grassley wrote in his letter: 'Allegations from multiple Justice Department whistleblowers indicate there is, and has been, an effort among certain Justice Department and FBI officials to improperly delay and stop full and complete investigative activity into the Biden family.'

The Senator also said that in at least one case, a source and its information was vetted by numerous U.S. attorney's offices, which found 'no hits' to Russian sources.

U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) speaking at a press conference organized by Senate Republicans to discuss Democratic tax and spending policies

President Joe Biden, left, is seen here with his brother James Biden, right, while running for Vice President

Grassley continued: 'Based on the information provided to my office over a period of years by multiple credible whistleblowers, there appears to be an effort within the Justice Department and FBI to shut down investigative activity relating to the Biden family.

'Such decisions point to significant political bias infecting the decision-making of not only the Attorney General and FBI Director, but also line agents and prosecutors.

'Our Republic cannot survive such a political infection and you have an obligation to this country to clear the air.'

Grassley also spoke of how whistleblower allegations in 2020 about Hunter Biden's 'criminal financial and related activity' that was shut down based on 'false assertions' that it was foreign disinformation.

One critical point that Grassley makes in his letter refers to a human source who alleged a bribery scheme between then Vice President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden and the founder and CEO of Burisma Holdings Mykola Zlochevsky.

The source told the bureau that the father and son had 'coerced' Zlochevsky to pay them millions of dollars in exchange for their help in getting a Ukrainian prosecutor investigating Burisma, Viktor Shokin, fired.

The White House has strenuously denied these allegations, despite Shokin going public and saying the two had a part to play in his dismissal.

Hunter Biden, seen here, and his father are said to have 'coerced' Mykola Zlochevsky into paying them millions in exchange for having a man probing Zlochevsky's company fired

ex-Ukrainian Prosecutor General Viktor Shokin, seen here, publicly claimed that Hunter and then Vice President Joe Biden had him fired over his probe

In his letter, Grassley revealed that in December 2019, the FBI Washington Field Office closed a 205B Kleptocracy case into Zlochevsky.

The case had originally been opened in January 2016 by a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Squad based in the same office, which is also a squad that includes agents from FBI headquarters.

At the time that the probe into Burisma was closed, Hunter Biden's role on the board of the company was under heavy scrutiny.

Former President Donald Trump had also requested Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to investigate the family's dealings in Ukraine and why the prosecutor investigating Burisma had been fired.

In February 2020, Grassley said a meeting then took place inside the FBI Field Office in Pittsburgh.

Vadym Pozharskyi, director of Ukrainian energy firm Burisma, is said to have been 'coerced' by Hunter Biden and his family

According to the Senator: 'That meeting involved discussion about investigative matters relating to the Hunter Biden investigation and related inquiries, which most likely would've included the case against Zlochevsky.'

Following this, an assessment was opened in the Pittsburgh office to analyze the information about the Bidens, with information supplied by Rudy Giuliani.

While the case was assessed, officials are said to have then located a form relating to the kleptocracy investigation into Zlochevsky.

This document is said to have included a reference to Hunter Biden being on the board of Burisma, which the agent handling is said to have deemed 'non-relevant information to the ongoing criminal financial case.'

Officials at the DOJ and FBI are then said to have asked the handler for the source to re-interview them, which according to Grassley took a month.

After re-interviewing the source, a formal document was filed alleging a criminal scheme between then-Vice President Biden, Hunter Biden and Zlochevsky in June 2020.

Grassley wrote that the reassessment of the file was frequently paused for weeks at a time due to DOJ and FBI officials.

Grassley also said that in August 2020, FBI Intelligence Analyst Brian Auten opened an assessment to seek out confidential human source information at FBI field offices across the country relating to the Biden family.

Grassley said he then worked to 'falsely discredit them as foreign disinformation.'

He concluded: 'Our findings indicated potential criminal activity, to include money laundering, with respect to members of the Biden family and their business associates as well as strong financial connections to questionable foreign nationals and foreign government-linked corporate entities.'

Grassley demanded the FBI and DOJ provide answers to his letter by Nov. 17.
Sir Keir Starmer has been tying himself in knots trying to sound like a friend of Israel while simultaneously struggling to keep his staunchly pro-Palestinian party at bay. It isn't working.

Having defended Israel's right to cut off power and water to Gaza and use whatever means at its disposal to defend itself against Hamas terrorism, he is facing a furious backlash.

More than 20 Labour councillors resigned over what they described as his 'horrific and dehumanising rhetoric'. One accused him of condoning 'war crimes'.

Yesterday he was given a further dressing down by concerned MPs, who demanded that he dilute his support for Israel and back an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

After this chastening meeting he hurriedly amended Labour policy, calling for 'humanitarian pauses' in the bombardment. The ultimate answer was a two-state solution, he said.

Sir Keir Starmer has been tying himself in knots trying to sound like a friend of Israel while simultaneously struggling to keep his staunchly pro-Palestinian party at bay

A man in Gaza is carried away following Israeli air attacks on Wednesday

This distinct change in tone shows two things. Firstly, the Labour leader's principles are about as firm as jelly. Secondly, though he claims to have rid the party of bigotry, it still lurks just below the surface.

Some dissident Labour members are no doubt motivated purely by compassion for the appalling suffering in Gaza. But we know from experience that others use the Palestinian cause as cover for ugly anti-Semitism.

The spirit of Corbynism may have been dormant. But don't be fooled by Sir Keir's blandishments. It is still very much alive.

Failure of diplomacy

In time of conflict, the primary duty of the United Nations is to mediate between warring factions and attempt to pour oil on troubled waters.

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has managed to do the opposite. By suggesting Israel was a 'brutal' occupying power he has inflamed an already explosive situation.

His exact words are worth noting. While condemning the Hamas atrocities of October 7, he added that they did not happen 'in a vacuum'. 'The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation,' he said.

Language is important. In the cauldron of Middle East politics, it's crucial. To the Israelis this sounded like an apologia for Hamas. Mr Guterres denies that inter-pretation, but the damage has been done.

Hardline Palestinian nationalists like to paint the Jews as 'settler colonists'. They regard Israel as a cuckoo in the nest, with no legitimate right to be there.

In time of conflict, the primary duty of the United Nations is to mediate between warring factions and attempt to pour oil on troubled waters. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has managed to do the opposite

In fact, the UN admitted Israel as a member and independent nation as long ago as 1949, with borders set by the armistice that ended the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.

True, after being attacked again by its neighbours in 1967, Israel took possession of the strategic Golan Heights from Syria, the West Bank from Jordan and Gaza from Egypt. However, it pulled out of Gaza in 2005 and the Fatah-led Palestinian authority now administers parts of the West Bank.

No one is obliged to support all Israel does in its own defence. Many Jews are critical of its sometimes violent heavy-handedness. But its right to exist is inalienable.

Unless Mr Guterres makes that clear, it is hard to imagine him ever being accepted as an honest broker by Israel again.

Called to account

The Mail's revelation that fewer than one in ten councils have filed accounts for 2022/23 and some haven't done so for four years is a shocking affront to open government.

The most common excuse is 'delays in audit'. This is not acceptable. With so many in crippling debt, the suspicion is they are simply ashamed to produce them.

Residents have a statutory right to see how their council tax is being spent  and to know whether their authority is hurtling down the road to insolvency.
Australia returns Chinese cultural objects and fossil to China

13:23, October 26, 2023 By Zhengzheng Huang ( People's Daily Online

A total of four Chinese cultural objects and one fossil were returned from Australia to China during an official handover ceremony at the Chinese Embassy in Canberra on Oct. 25, 2023.

The Handover Ceremony for Repatriation of Chinese Cultural Objects is held in Canberra, the capital of Australia, on Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo/Zhengzheng Huang)

The repatriated items include a painted pottery rider figure dating back to the Northern Wei to Tang Dynasty period, a gilt-bronze standing Buddha statue originating from the late Sui Dynasty to Tang Dynasty, a wine vessel (Zun) potentially from the Ming and Qing Dynasties or modern times, and a Qing Dynasty hairpin. Additionally, a fossil of a marine reptile from the Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous period was also included in the return.

Four Chinese cultural objects and one fossil are displayed at the Handover Ceremony for Repatriation of Chinese Cultural Objects in Canberra, the capital of Australia, Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo/Zhengzheng Huang)

The painted pottery rider figure, the gilt-bronze standing Buddha statue, and the fossil were intercepted by the Australian Office for the Arts during customs inspections. The wine vessel and hairpin were donated by the National Gallery of Australia and an Australian citizen, John MacDonald, respectively.

This historic event marks the first return of cultural relics from the National Gallery of Australia to China since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian, speaking at the ceremony, emphasized that the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects underscores the two nations collective and unwavering dedication to safeguarding cultural heritage. It also reflects the friendly exchanges and communication between the two countries and their peoples in the cultural and art sectors.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian delivers a speech at the Handover Ceremony for Repatriation of Chinese Cultural Objects in Canberra, the capital of Australia, Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo/Zhengzheng Huang)

Tony Burke, Australian minister for the arts, stated that Australia holds a strong stance on stolen cultural artifacts and is committed to adhering to international museum standards to facilitate their return to their country of origin.

Tony Burke, Australian minister for the arts, delivers a speech at the Handover Ceremony for Repatriation of Chinese Cultural Objects in Canberra, the capital of Australia, Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo/Zhengzheng Huang)

Nick Mitzevich, director of the National Gallery of Australia, expressed that the gallery's donation of this cultural relic to the Chinese government reflects a deep respect for artifacts and enhances mutual understanding of the significant value of cultural heritage.

China and Australia signed the Memorandum of Understanding on the Protection of Cultural Relics between the State Administration of Cultural Heritage of the People's Republic of China and the Department of Environment, Water, Heritage, and the Arts of Australia in 2009.

This event signifies another successful collaboration in the field of repatriation of lost cultural relics between China and Australia, following the return of a "Qing Dynasty Guanyin Statue" by Australia to China in 2015. This also marks the first occasion where the National Gallery of Australia and an Australian citizen have donated cultural relics and artworks to China.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
A frantic mum has issued a harrowing plea to her missing teenage daughter - six years after losing her father and another child in a horror head-on crash.

Kristen Matagia Nauer, from Griffith in NSW's Riverina region, has launched a public appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of her daughter Janet, 16, who hasn't been seen or heard from by loved ones in more than a week.

Next month will mark six years since Ms Matagia Nauer's daughter Anelina, 2, and father Antonio, 59, were killed when the mini bus they were travelling in with family members veered into oncoming traffic near Kemps Creek in Sydney's west.

Ms Matagia Nauer took to Facebook on Wednesday pleading for Janet's safe return.

'Hi families and friends and neighbours in Griffith our daughter Janet here is missing its been more than a week if any of yous are helping harbouring her or didn't even know that she's ours please do the right thing and return her to us,' she wrote.

Kristen Matagia Nauer has launched an appeal to find her missing daughter Janet (pictured)

Janet (pictured) hasn't been seen by her family for more than a week

'Janet if you're reading this post please get your behind back home don't go and do stupid stuffs but scared to face the consequences.

'Please if any of you heard or seen or have any info of her whereabouts, please let us know. Think of this as your daughter or niece or sister missing.'

'We are worried for her safety we will be reporting her missing but haven't reported her missing yet because I feel like the people she's staying with don't know that we are looking for her, she goes by Janet and she is only 16.'

Ms Matagia Nauer confirmed on Thursday that her daughter was still missing.

'If anyone knows of her whereabouts to please contact us and if she is reading this please come home,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'She's been missing a week but she hasn't been reported missing yet because people have seen her around.'

The mum's desperate plea was shared by other family members.

They included Ms Matagia Nauer's sister who was later jailed over the November 2017 crash that claimed the lives of her niece and father.

'Just keep an eye out please,' Penina Nauer wrote.

Kristen Matagia Nauer is desperate for answers about the whereabouts of Janet (pictured)

Missing teen Janet's little sister Anelina (pictured) died in a horror crash in 2017

The family had made the 560km drive from Griffith heading to Sydney Airport to fly to Samoa when Antonio asked his daughter to drive the final leg.

Nauer, then 20, fell asleep at the wheel and veered off Mamre Road, slamming into another vehicle.

Two-year-old Anelina died at the scene.

Antonio, 59, spent two weeks in a coma before he succumbed to his injuries.

Nauer was supported by a large cohort of family members in court when she was sentenced and jailed in 2019.

Six other family members were also injured in the crash, including Ms Matagia Nauer, who suffered two broken legs.

Her little girl Anelina, described at the time as a beautiful soul would now be eight if she was still alive.

'It always weighs heavy on my heart every year I always think what you would have looked like every birthday that goes by,' she posted on her daughter's birthday in April.

'Thank God for the little time we had you brought so much happiness but u also brang (sic) me and your dad and nannas and dadas uncles and aunties so much pain and heartbreak when u left so soon we miss you so much often days go by I always cry and get mad but it's my hope in Christ that gets me going.'
He has since apologised for his actions

A senior real estate agent has apologised after posted insults directed at a tenant during a heated online exchange in a public community group.

Tim found out PRD Toowoomba was hired to handle his Queensland property and went on Facebook to ask others in the area if the agency was pleasant to deal with.

'Anyone renting through PRD? Just had our landlord switch agencies to them and wanted a gauge on what they're like,' Tim wrote on the Toowoomba Community Notice group.

To his surprise Senior Property Manager Mitchell Betheras personally responded to his inquiry, writing that Tim should have simply contacted the agency itself to ask such a question.

'YOU were going to be my client but your Facebook post made me reconsider,' Mr Betheras replied.

'I'm the be all end all in PRD property management,' he wrote.

Senior Property Manager at PRD Toowoomba, Mitchell Betheras (pictured), has apologised after he launched a homophobic tirade against a new tenant

Tim asked a Toowoomba community group if PRD was a good agent to deal with before Mr Betheras began his tirade which Tim said was threatening

Tim asked what he said to trigger Mr Betheras, to which the agent said that PRD didn't operate through Facebook and that they had a 'very strict tenant selection'.

'Again if you're not happy with your rental please vacate as there will be someone who will reside. Not everyone's clearly as fussy as you,' Mr Betheras continued.

After another community member came to Tim's defence, Mr Betheras snapped, telling them both to 'f*** off' and questioned if either was a 'closet f**'.

Other people also responded to the dispute and unanimously sided with Tim, who told Yahoo that the exchange left him fearful.

'He was implying he was going to use his authority to kick me out of my property,' he said.

'I fear for ... anybody who would have to be under Mitchs property management.'

Mr Betheras has since apologised after people started slamming him on his personal account for the 'unprofessional' and 'abusive' conduct.

After another community member came to Tim's defence Mr Betheras inexplicably asked if either was a 'closet f**'

The senior property manager has since apologised for his actions, saying that he thought that Tim was personally attacking him with his initial question

The senior real estate agent returned to the comment thread and personally apologised to Tim, who said that he forgave him.

READ MORE: Man storms into top real estate agent's office A man has stormed into a top real estate agency and threatened to 'kill' the boss, accusing him of verbally abusing his brother with gay slurs at a cafe earlier that day. Advertisement

'I am deeply sorry. I want to express my apology. I truly thought that you were having a go at me professionally and personally,' Mr Betheras said.

Tim responded by reiterating his confusion about what had triggered the verbal assault in the first place.

'If you actually thought my comments were offensive, that says a lot about your ability to act professionally,' he said.

Tim said it was entirely inappropriate for Mr Betheras to behave in the way he did 'over the fact he has complete control over where me and my family live' on a public forum.

Toowoomba PRD co-principal Kim Taylor confirmed that the agency was looking into the exchange.

When contacted for comment by Daily Mail Australia, PRD's corporate office said that they were unable to comment on the active investigation.

The spokesperson said that PRD is 'built on the expertise and collaboration of enterprising professionals, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, or race'.

They continued: 'The comments made online recently by a staff member of the PRD Toowoomba office are serious and concerning.'

Prior to the apology others on the 3,700-strong community group were calling for Mr Betheras' sacking.

'This idiot is surely going to lose his job. PRD are a big chain and I reckon his a** is grass once the big bosses get wind of this. So unprofessional,' one said.

'Nobody go through this low life check out this bulls***. He threatens people of being kicked out for asking questions [sic],' another posted to Facebook.

When contacted for comment by Daily Mail Australia, Mr Betheras said that he had no further comments beyond his apology.
Israel is refusing to grant visas to United Nations representatives after the organisations chief claimed the Hamas attacks didnt happen in a vacuum.

As pressure builds on Secretary General Antonio Guterres over his comments at yesterdays security council, Israels envoy to the UN said it was time to teach them a lesson.

Mr Guterres sparked a furious backlash after he said the Hamas atrocities on October 7 cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

At a high-level meeting of the 15-member Security Council in New York, Mr Guterres claimed the 1,400 murders did not happen in a vacuum.

During a press conference today, Mr Guterres said that he is shocked by the misrepresentations of his remarks.

He said: I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council - as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas.

But Israels UN ambassador, Gilad Erdan, said Mr Guterres council address meant he was not fit to lead the body.

Mr Guterres sparked a furious backlash after he said the Hamas atrocities on October 7 cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people

But Israels UN ambassador, Gilad Erdan, said Mr Guterres council address meant he was not fit to lead the body

In response, he said Israel will refuse to grant visas to UN representatives.

Mr Erdan told Israels Army Radio station: We have already refused to give one to Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths. Its time to teach them a lesson.

Israeli airstrikes have destroyed large swathes of the Gaza Strip, leaving at least 6,500 Palestinians killed, including over 2,700 children, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry.

Mr Guterres had earlier tried to walk back the comments, tweeting: The grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the horrific attacks by Hamas.

Those horrendous attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

Today Downing Street made clear Rishi Sunak also did not agree with Mr Guterress language.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: Obviously we dont agree with that characterisation put forward.

We are clear that there is and can be no justification for Hamass barbaric terrorist attack which was driven by hatred and ideology.

The spokesman said that the UN as a body will continue to play an important role... and that is supported by the UK Government.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, a close ally of Mr Sunak, suggested Mr Guterres should retract the remarks.

He told ITVs Good Morning Britain programme that the comments were wrong and that he should retract them if he was implying there is any justification for the killing of 1,400 Israelis, most of them civilians, by Hamas fighters on October 7.
'On a dank, cold and very foggy night in early January 1931, I first met the Duchess at a mutual friend's house in Melton Mowbray...'

The words are those of the Duke of Windsor, formerly King Edward VIII before his abdication, and he is recalling how, as Prince of Wales, he was introduced to Mrs Simpson, the woman for whose love he would sensationally give up the crown.

'I was immediately impressed with her vivaciousness, wit and smart repartee. I particularly admired her complete frankness.

'If she did not agree with anyone, she said so, and I found this rarely, due to the circumstances of my position, especially among my British friends.'

Edward was spilling out his secrets  his heart even  to an eminent American journalist, Charles Murphy, who had persuaded the former king that, after more than a decade of silence, the time had come for him to tell his side of the abdication story for a series of articles in Life magazine and subsequently a book.

The words are those of the Duke of Windsor, formerly King Edward VIII before his abdication, and he is recalling how, as Prince of Wales, he was introduced to Mrs Simpson, the woman for whose love he would sensationally give up the crown (pictured: the Duke and Duchess of Windsor in 1953)

From July 1947 until January 1951, Edward and Murphy were in each other's company on an almost daily basis, much of it in the exotic setting of the Windsors' white-washed villa, Chateau de la La Croe, on Cap d'Antibes on the French Riviera.

Murphy discovered almost immediately that the former monarch needed to 'learn the habits of work'.

He also needed to be taught how to reminisce because his perspective on his multitude of exceptional experiences was, apart from a general sense of grievance that had dogged his years of exile, 'less than penetrating', Murphy observed.

Murphy saw his task as helping Edward find a voice. Deciding not to conduct direct interviews, his technique was to suggest topics and invite Edward to talk about them  much like a schoolmaster encouraging a recalcitrant child.

Edward started by exploring his assigned subjects through monologues that were recorded in shorthand by a secretary, but later went on to write down his recollections at length.

Years later, Murphy lodged his papers at Boston University, which is where I unearthed them  box upon box of notes and memos, including Edward's own first drafts scrawled on yellow legal pads, much of which never made it into the Life articles or the subsequent book.

For all Edward's protestations of instant attraction to Wallis (pictured), the details of their first meeting are a matter of dispute

Here was, in effect, the lost memoir of Edward VIII, the authentic and unheard voice of the man who had once been King. It throws new light on how and why he chose to abdicate rather than live without the only woman he ever loved. It tells Edward's story as he saw it, lived it and remembered it.

His failures, weaknesses, naivety and flaws are on full display but so, too, are his intelligence, his loyalty, his love and his resolve.

It is, for the first time, Edward's story.

For all Edward's protestations of instant attraction to Wallis, the details of their first meeting are a matter of dispute.

Her recollection to Murphy was that the 37-year-old Edward 'hardly spoke to me' that time in Melton Mowbray.

Then, when they met two months later at a reception, she recalled overhearing him say to the hostess, who was his mistress at the time, 'Didn't I meet that woman somewhere?' 'He never looked at me,' she told Murphy. 'Can't believe that, darling,' said Edward, who was listening to the discussion.

Whatever the precise truth, the fact is that, keen to throw off the stuffiness of court life, he was soon seeking her company at every opportunity.

'I was a bachelor, alone, tired. She and her husband Ernest had an apartment [in Marylebone] and served as good food as anywhere in London. She had a host of friends and the conversations were gay, witty and intelligent.'

One of those friends was Bernard Rickatson-Hatt, editor-in-chief of Reuters News, who thought her 'attractive and smart' and an 'extremely capable hostess', transplanting the glamorous life of Park Avenue in New York to central London.

He remembered seeing the Simpsons' apartment overflowing with flowers from Fort Belvedere, Edward's home in Windsor Great Park, and Wallis wearing expensive jewels he had given her.

'His days at court are filled with stuffed shirts. He comes here to be amused,' was Wallis's explanation for his growing presence in the Simpson menage.

According to Rickatson-Hatt, her husband Ernest 'grasped what was going on but as a loyal Englishman was reluctant to make an issue of the situation'.

Edward was soon besotted. He told Murphy: 'She satisfied something creative in me. She brought into my life something not there before: curiosity, independence, impudence, questioning, warmth. I saw things in a new light'

Edward was soon besotted. He told Murphy: 'She satisfied something creative in me. She brought into my life something not there before: curiosity, independence, impudence, questioning, warmth. I saw things in a new light.'

In staccato notes, he explained: 'Fell in love with the Duchess two years before abdication. It happened in restaurant, no frivolous business, age on my side. I had sowed my wild oats. Made lots of mistakes, in [a] superficial way.

'I knew I was falling in love with another man's wife. When found myself falling in love should have withdrawn. But remarkable business about love is that it happens before one knows it.'

With bullet-point precision, titled by Murphy as 'HRH's Description of Duchess', Edward listed Wallis's defining characteristics in pencil on two pieces of Waldorf Astoria memo paper:

Very proud

Independent

Demanding of highest standards of conduct

Inflexible code of behaviour

Strict

Exacting

Elusive

Chic

Must have the best

Very sensitive

Easily hurt

Great sense of dignity

Perfectionist to the extent of wearing herself out.

That she was American was a major attraction. The prince had visited the U.S. and the experience transformed him.

He recalled: 'Among well-born Englishmen there was an inclination to look down on Americans as rather loud, pushy upstarts. But when I went there on a tour, it took my breath away. Men lived more freely. They were not afraid to speak to me or tell me what they thought because I was a prince. '

That she was American was a major attraction. The prince had visited the U.S. and the experience transformed him (pictured here at a fancy dress party in America)

Created Prince of Wales on his 16th birthday, just seven weeks after his father became King, he had spent 26 years creating a 'modern version' of an ancient office.

His 'Prince of Wales,' he said, was not the 'reproduction of my grandfather's top-hatted geniality. I became a spokesman of the rising generation  a restless, pushing iconoclastic generation'.

But keen as he was to re-invent the monarchy for a more democratic age, he was faced with a father, George V, who, as Edward wrote, insisted: 'Remember your position and who you are.'

'This remark of my father's was disturbing. How different was I really? Through school, college and the war, I had certainly discovered my shortcomings.

'Not only was I not better than other people, the fact was I possessed no outstanding qualifications to set me up above my contemporaries. Now I was being launched on a career in public life not of my choosing which was going to make me seem more different from other people than ever. But life had to be something more than driving down lined streets with uplifted hat and ready smile.

'I decided I would act as differently from other people as was required of me when on show but that 'off duty' I would work out my own life along the lines of my tastes and inclinations. I would seek informality  to observe all ceremonial punctiliously but to dispense with it whenever I could and it seemed out of place.'

As his loathing grew for the remoteness and aloofness of his royal life, increasingly Wallis was indispensable to him. In his eyes, she was also the measure of how free he really could be.

As his loathing grew for the remoteness and aloofness of his royal life, increasingly Wallis was indispensable to him. In his eyes, she was also the measure of how free he really could be

'The choice confronting me was a bitter one. While there was no desire in my heart to shirk my inheritance, the desire to marry and make a full life with the woman of my choice was equally strong. To live without love would have been intolerable. And, more than that, without it my service to the state would have seemed an empty thing.'

With his father's death in January 1936, Edward became King. At the State Funeral there was a poignant private moment, an indication of everything that lay ahead. He recalled: 'Only once during that seemingly endless procession did my eyes stray from the coffin or the slowly marching figures surrounding me.

'A swift scan of the windows of the second floor of a certain building rewarded me with a fleeting glance of recognition, of comfort and understanding of the mental and physical strain it was mine to bear that sad day.'

Just a glimpse of Wallis meant that much to him. The fact was that since early 1934 she had occupied a dominant role in his life. By the time of his accession, her marriage to Ernest Simpson was over in all but name, and rumours swirled in London society about her relationship with the King.

But, although Edward made it clear he was not going to give up Wallis, nor was he about to relinquish the throne if he didn't have to. Edward's solicitor, George Allen, told Murphy: 'He was bent upon marrying her and making her Queen and being crowned together.

'He hated Buckingham Palace and much of the royal existence. But at the same time he yearned to be King. At the outset there was no question of abdication. He took the job on with the hope of marrying her. He wanted the divorce secure and everything in preparation so they could be married before the Coronation.'

Edward told Murphy: 'What was really at stake was my right as King to a private life, to an independent existence, to 'a life outside the office'.' Implicit in his drive to modernise the monarchy was establishing the King's freedom to marry whomever he wished.

He resisted the idea that the monarch should hide all personal feeling in the pursuit of royal duty. To him, kingship was a career. From the outset of his reign, he expressed a determination to separate his public role from his private world  a division he had successfully maintained as Prince of Wales.

To his adviser, Walter Monckton, he declared shortly after his father's death: 'I refuse to become a prisoner of the past. I must have a private life of my own.'

His father's Private Secretary, Sir Clive Wigram, quickly disabused him of this notion. 'Sir, you are quite mistaken. The King has no private life whatever.'

He resisted the idea that the monarch should hide all personal feeling in the pursuit of royal duty. To him, kingship was a career

But Edward chose to ignore Wigram's warning. 'I was suspicious of courtiers' advice,' he told Murphy. 'But this made for trouble.' He was on track for the clash with the British Establishment that would eventually cost him his throne.

One woman who did not address the mounting speculation about Mrs Simpson was Queen Mary.

'Mother never mentioned W's name,' Edward told Murphy. 'This was curious for she knew about all my other flirtations, often chided, sometimes teased me about them. Perhaps she believed my bachelorhood permanent; or that my becoming King would sober me.

'But, an observant woman, she must have noticed a change in my outlook as attachment [to Wallis] deepened. My outlook was more serious, life stabler. Instead, she was silent. This, coupled with inflexible opposition to divorce, meant she disapproved.

'The fact that I did not marry bothered her. On my 30th birthday [in 1924] she raised the question tentatively, but I dodged it, saying I had not met anyone I loved and I absolutely refused to enter into a marriage of convenience.'

In an essay entitled Family, Edward expanded on these sentiments: 'I had developed an abhorrence of arranged marriages for they were no guarantee of private happiness, which to me was the essential and basic element of existence in this world.

'I had seen too many unhappy marriages amongst my contemporaries and had admired those who found greater happiness with a divorce more than those who chose the path of conventional pretence to a life [of] matrimonial misery.

'But royalty lived in the fierce glare of publicity and presence of the State. There was no loophole for unhappy royal marriages or divorce as a merciful release. Once you took the step it was a life sentence and that I could not contemplate.

'Of course there have been many happy marriages of convenience, my brother George's as a fine example. But it all depends on one's make-up and mine just wasn't that sort.

At the end of the summer of 1936, Wallis joined Edward at Balmoral in a group that included the Duke and Duchess of Kent, Lord and Lady Louis Mountbatten and the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough

'My abhorrence of the system and my fear of getting trapped and losing my freedom until I had found the right person  the 'right' person for me without regard to any other consideration  became strongly engrained in me. I was determined to wait until I really fell in love.'

At the end of the summer of 1936, Wallis joined Edward at Balmoral in a group that included the Duke and Duchess of Kent, Lord and Lady Louis Mountbatten and the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. Her presence was controversial and overshadowed the aristocratic tenor of the gathering.

Even Winston Churchill, usually sympathetic to the King, deplored 'Mrs Simpson going to such a highly official place'. Adding to the contention was Edward's insistence that she be named in the Court Circular as one of his guests.

In an essay he wrote for Murphy entitled Notes On The Hypocritical British Attitude Toward Divorce, he asserted: 'I could have camouflaged her presence and catered to gossiping tongue-wagging by merely stating 'The King is entertaining a few friends at the Castle'.

'It was my honesty, my chivalry and my good manners that offended in certain quarters, whereas duplicity and camouflage would have satisfied my hypocritical critics.'

But the stay at Balmoral proved a critical milestone in testing public and official appetite for his relationship with Wallis, not least in bringing the British Press into the equation.

Edward would later conclude that he had not handled this well.

'In my childhood,' he wrote, 'the Royal Family had remained outside the ravenous appetites of the daily Press. I have come to believe that one of the most unfortunate aspects of the crisis which before long burst around me was the long censorship which the British Press in this connection imposed upon itself.

'As a result, when the facts were finally presented to the British people they came in a lightning burst. In the first shock of revelation, much that was human and honourable was seamed by scandal and twisted by politics. The people were staggered.

With Mrs Simpson's divorce from her husband going through the courts and speculation mounting about the King's intentions towards her once she was free, matters came to a head

'Whether the eventual outcome would have been different had they known earlier what was involved, I cannot say; nor am I inclined to speculate, for what was done is done, and I am no longer King.

'But this I do believe: that had the facts seeped out during the summer of 1936, the frightful blow-up of constitutional politics in the winter might never have come to pass; or had a crisis been inevitable, the cleavages might have been resolved without so heavy a legacy of bitterness.

'But I was myself to blame in no small measure for this misjudgment; and the ordeal which was to break around me, shattering my world.'

With Mrs Simpson's divorce from her husband going through the courts and speculation mounting about the King's intentions towards her once she was free, matters came to a head.

Edward summoned the prime minister, Stanley Baldwin, to tell him he was determined on 'marriage and a home with the woman I loved'.

'The instant he entered my room, I realised from his demeanour that I would not get what I wanted. Baldwin confirmed that neither his Cabinet nor the Dominions would be willing to support Wallis as Queen.

'Three options remained: to give up the marriage, to marry against the advice of his ministers or to abdicate.'

Baldwin told Edward he 'prayed' for the first of these three outcomes. But for Edward 'the idea of abandoning W was so preposterous that I would not even dignify his prayer with a rejection.

He had 'no intention of going through this, then springing on an unsuspecting public a plan to marry a divorced woman'

'I decided if I could not remain under my conditions, I would not stay. I would abdicate.'

In a last search for an alternative Edward turned to his and Wallis's friend Duff Cooper, Secretary of State for War.

He urged Edward 'to steer away from all risk of an immediate collision with Baldwin. He said the question of my marrying W could not arise until her divorce became absolute and, meanwhile, Baldwin could not press me on the constitutional issue.

'Duff in substance said, 'Be patient. You are to be crowned in May. Say nothing now; let the people get used to you as King. You should then be able to marry on your own terms'.'

But Duff, Edward told Murphy later, 'didn't understand the curious position of the King in the Coronation ceremony; a sanctified person; Head of Church; taking a sacrament'.

He had 'no intention of going through this, then springing on an unsuspecting public a plan to marry a divorced woman. Had I followed Duff's advice, the subsequent course of events might well have been radically altered and I might even still be King and W my Consort.

'However, I could not bring myself to adopt the course of action he recommended.

'I did not possess the subtlety and patience to play so tricky a game. It would have required my resorting to a subterfuge on a matter affecting the highest and most delicate sentiments of the British people.

Few have credited Edward's belief in the sacred nature of the Coronation as the real reason for his unwillingness to pursue Cooper's suggested subterfuge. Instead, it has been interpreted as a suitable excuse for a man now committed to escaping his high office (Edward pictured during his abdication broadcast)

Once A King by Jane Marguerite Tippett (Hodder & Stoughton, 25) is published today

'Duff's opportunistic approach also overlooked the anomaly of my dual function as not just Head of State, but also Head of the Church of England. As Head of State, I was technically free to marry whoever I pleased. But as Head of the Church, I was under restraints which were nonetheless powerful for being unwritten.'

Few have credited Edward's belief in the sacred nature of the Coronation as the real reason for his unwillingness to pursue Cooper's suggested subterfuge. Instead, it has been interpreted as a suitable excuse for a man now committed to escaping his high office.

Yet Edward returned to the point repeatedly. Though admitting he was not a religious man, he could 'never have brought myself to submit to the Coronation Service with the secret intention of later on marrying under circumstances at variance with the doctrines I would have sworn to uphold'.

The ceremony would also have entailed him taking, very publicly, the sacrament of communion  which Wallis, as a divorcee, was not allowed. This hypocrisy, he declared, did not suit. He told Murphy: 'I would not wish to take that which my wife was denied.'
An heroic British-Israeli soldier picked up and threw seven Hamas grenades as he saved dozens of people hiding in a shelter before an eighth exploded in his hand, his grandmother has revealed.

Aner Shapiro, 22, died during the Hamas attack on October 7 at the Supernova festival after sacrificing himself to save around 30 other festivalgoers, Sky News reported.

Mr Shapiro and his friend Hersh Goldberg, who is feared to have been taken hostage, had fled to a shelter as Hamas attacked.

His grandmother Yamima Ben-Menahem claims he 'took leadership' during the crisis and tried to calm everyone else down.

He then put himself in the firing line when Hamas gunmen approached, blocking the entrance to the hideaway and throwing back grenades launched by the terrorists.

He has been hailed by a survivor of the attack as the 'angel who guarded us' who 'saved our lives and deserves a medal of honour'.

Aner Shapiro, 22, died during the Hamas attack on October 7 at the Supernova festival after sacrificing himself to save around 30 other festivalgoers

His grandmother Yamima Ben-Menahem (pictured) revealed the British-Israeli soldier flung seven Hamas grenades in an attempt save dozens of people hiding in a shelter before an eighth exploded in his hand

Mr Shapiro (pictured) has been hailed by a survivor of the attack as the 'angel who guarded us' who 'saved our lives and he deserves a a medal of honour'

After seeking shelter with the group, Mr Shapiro reportedly made an effort to calm down the terrified festivalgoers.

'He said the army was only half an hour away and he was sure that everything was going to be okay,' Ms Ben-Menahem told the broadcaster.

Then, as armed Hamas terrorists approached the hideaway, he used his body to act as a barrier between the gunmen and the group.

'When they [Hamas] started throwing grenades into the shelter, he said "I'm going to throw them back and if I miss one you do the rest of the work",' she shared, adding: 'He stood there and threw back one grenade after the other'.

Mr Shapiro successfully threw back seven grenades before an eighth blew up in his hands, killing him.

After he died, Hamas reportedly went into the shelter and took five or six hostages before shooting the rest of the group, Ms Ben-Menahem has claimed.

It reportedly took several hours for aide to arrive and only 'those who were not injured severely' survived.

After the incident, Ms Ben-Menahem said that some of the survivors reached out to their family to say that Mr Shapiro 'saved our lives'.

Another posted a tribute on Facebook, writing: 'Aner Shapiro saved our lives and he deserves a a medal of honor for being an angel who guarded us.'

Mr Shapiro allegedly put himself in the firing line when Hamas gunmen approached, blocking the entrance to the hideaway and throwing back grenades launched by the terrorists

The land around the Nova festival site appeared to have been torched by Hamas terrorists

Tents and festival equipment were abandoned during the attack

Hamas launched their deadly assault into Israel from Gaza on October 7 at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Reim.

At least 260 partygoers lost their lives in the vicious massacre. Some victims hid in skips, others in portable toilets, before they were found and either gunned down, or savagely beaten before being taken hostage.

More than 200 people were taken hostage during the attack at the Nova festival, which prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

The war has now become the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Health Ministry said Wednesday that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded.

READ MORE: Crying Israeli begs for her son's release as she is shown footage of him held hostage by Hamas Advertisement

In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and 1,650 wounded in violence and Israeli raids since Oct. 7.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas rampage.

Israel's military on Wednesday raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released.

Meanwhile, doctors issued a dire warning yesterday that Gaza's hospitals will become 'mass graves' if they cannot get fuel to run emergency generators - as Israel announced preparations for a deadly ground assault to crush Hamas.

Hospitals have been overwhelmed by casualties as the death toll rose to more than 6,500 Palestinians on Wednesday, including 2,700 children according to the Hamas-run health ministry, and almost a third have closed due to damage from air strikes or a lack of fuel.

The crisis was part of a humanitarian catastrophe that saw the UN admit it could be forced to stop its aid work in the territory. It said operations would halt last night if it could not get fuel to run emergency shelters where some 600,000 people have sought refuge.

It came as Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu warned the country was preparing for an imminent ground invasion and that all militants belonging to the terror group Hamas are 'doomed'.

A wounded young girl is rescued from rubble after an airstrike in Gaza on Wednesday

Trapped in rubble, a toddler cries as they are rescued from a destroyed building in Gaza City

Hospitals have been overwhelmed by casualties as the death toll rose to more than 6,500 Palestinians on Wednesday

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu warned the country was preparing for an imminent ground invasion in Gaza on Wednesday night

In a televised statement on Wednesday night, Mr Netanyahu declined to provide any details or time-scale for the planned attack, and said decisions would be made by his government's special war cabinet.

'We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning,' Mr Netanyahu said.

'Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be.'

He also called upon Israeli citizens to bear arms and stressed Palestinian civilians should move to the south of the Gaza Strip.

Referring to the attack by Hamas on October 7, which also saw more than 200 people kidnapped, Mr Netanyahu expressed sorrow.

'October 7 is a black day in our history,' he said. 'We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border around Gaza. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.'

Israel has carried out days of intense bombardment of the densely populated Gaza Strip following the attack. It claimed on Wednesday to have killed the commander of Hamass North Khan Younis Battalion, Taysir Mubasher.

But it has been reported that Israel agreed to delay its offensive so that US anti-missile defensives could arrive in he region.

Global charities and aid organisations have called for an urgent ceasefire and further aid to be allowed into the region.

UNICEF has said Israeli strikes have killed a 'staggering' 2,360 children and called for an immediate end to the fighting.

Adele Khodr, UNICEF regional director for the Middle East and North Africa, said: 'The situation in the Gaza Strip is a growing stain on our collective conscience. The rate of death and injuries of children is simply staggering.

'Even more frightening is the fact that unless tensions are eased, and unless humanitarian aid is allowed, including food, water, medical supplies and fuel, the daily death toll will continue to rise.'

Oxfam warned many more faced starvation unless greater aid supplies were allowed into Gaza, saying hunger was 'being used as a weapon of war against Gaza civilians'.

Countries around the world have sent aid since the war began, including Britain, but only a few convoys have been let into Gaza.

A Palestinian man carries a wounded woman after recovering her from the rubble of a destroyed area following Israeli air strikes in Gaza City

Children being treated for injuries sustained in Hamas airstrikes comfort one another at a hospital in Palestine

A man is stretchered away from wreckage in Gaza as fires continue to burn after airstrikes

In a televised statement on Wednesday night, Netanyahu declined to provide any details or time-scale for the planned attack

Israel has imposed tight blockades and has refused to allow any fuel to be included in the humanitarian supplies of food, water and medicines.

But hospitals and emergency shelters say they cannot operate without fuel. Surgery is no longer an option for any but the most dire cases, and doctors said life support machines and babies' incubators would no longer function.

At the Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, the largest hospital in Gaza, doctors warned that 150 patients were on ventilators and would die if they were switched off.

Ghassan Abu-Sittah, a British-Palestinian surgeon, told CNN: 'Effectively, Shifa Hospital will become a mass grave if it runs out of electricity.'

Meanwhile Mads Gilbert, from the Norwegian Aid Committee, who is waiting to enter Gaza via the Egyptian border, told The Mirror: 'Imagine a hospital with 5,000 to 15,000 civilian refugees, overcrowded with patients needing surgical care, and then the lights are going out. I think you can imagine how difficult that is.

READ MORE: FOUR Labour shadow cabinet members are on resignation watch over Starmer's stance on Gaza Advertisement

'It makes Dante's Inferno look like a tea party.'

Twelve of Gaza's 35 hospitals have closed due to air strikes or lack of fuel, according to the UN.

Israel has insisted that Hamas has stockpiled fuel to support its war effort.

It released satellite imagery showing what it said were fuel tanks inside Gaza, saying: 'They contain more than 500,000 litres of fuel. Ask Hamas if you can have some.'

Limited supplies of food, water and medicine have been allowed into Gaza through its border with Egypt.

But aid agencies warned they amount to a 'trickle'. On Tuesday, only eight of a scheduled 20 aid trucks were allowed through the Rafah border crossing, according to the UN.

Before the war on Hamas, Gaza typically received around 455 aid trucks per day. Oxfam said the supply of food to Gaza had dwindled to around two per cent of what was supplied before the Hamas attacks.

Its Middle East director Sally Abi Khalil said: 'The situation is nothing short of horrific - where is the humanity? Millions of civilians are being collectively punished in full view of the world, there can be no justification for using starvation as a weapon of war.'

Riham Jafari, Advocacy and Communications Coordinator at UK-based humanitarian charity ActionAid, said: 'The situation in hospitals could not be more precarious with vital fuel supplies for hospitals  and the lives of hundreds of babies on incubators - hanging by a thread.

'Birth should be a joyous occasion for new mothers, but many are having to give birth under life-threatening conditions without anaesthetic and under constant bombardment.'

Twelve of Gaza's 35 hospitals have closed due to air strikes or lack of fuel, according to the UN

Limited supplies of food, water and medicine have been allowed into Gaza through its border with Egypt

A woman is treated at El- Shifa Hospital in Gaza City on Wednesday

People gather to mourn those killed in Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip

On Tuesday, only eight of a scheduled 20 aid trucks were allowed through the Rafah border crossing

Workers of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees

'The aid delivered so far is dwarfed by the enormous humanitarian needs of millions of people across Gaza. We need an immediate ceasefire and a flow of sustainable humanitarian aid, including fuel, to save the lives of countless families, women, children, and the sick and injured.

'Doctors and medical staff in all hospitals are committed to continue working despite everything  we must do everything we can to support them in their life saving work.'

An RAF plane loaded with 21 tonnes of humanitarian supplies for Gaza arrived in Gaza last night. Supplies on board the C-17 aircraft included medical equipment and water filters.

It came after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced he was increasing UK support by 30 million.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly stressed that more aid was needed to help Gaza's 2.3 million population.

He said: 'Humanitarian aid must continue to be allowed into Gaza to reach the people who need it most.

'The UK is working with Israel, Egypt and other partners in the region to enable life-saving aid to reach civilians, including food, water, medical supplies and fuel as a priority.'

A French navy ship was also en route to support Gaza's hospitals, along with a plane headed to Egypt. The Prime Minister said he would support 'specific pauses' in the fight against Hamas to allow the release of hostages and the supply of humanitarian aid.

His official spokesman said: 'A wholesale ceasefire would only serve to benefit Hamas.

'Humanitarian pauses, which are temporary, which are limited in scope, can be an operational tool.'

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a ceasefire, as five UK nationals remain missing, some of whom are believed to be being held hostage in Gaza.
The last surviving member of the RAF's 'Guinea Pig Club' has died aged 101.

Jan Stangryciuk-Black, a Polish veteran, was one of the airmen who underwent pioneering plastic surgery after suffering burn injuries in the Second World War.

The brave men, who numbered 649 by the end of the war, jokingly referred to themselves as the Guinea Pig Club due to the uncertain outcomes they faced during treatment.

Poland's ambassador to the UK, Piotr Wilczek, posted online: 'Heartbroken to learn of the passing of Jan Stangryciuk-Black... A rear gunner in the 300 Bomber Squadron, he demonstrated immense courage and resilience throughout his life.'

Valiant: Jan Stangryciuk-Black, the last surviving member of the RAF's 'Guinea Pig Club' has died aged 101

Jan Stangryciuk-Black (appearing on Good Morning Britain after he was robbed), a Polish veteran, was one of the airmen who underwent pioneering plastic surgery after suffering burn injuries in the Second World War

East Grinstead Museum, in West Sussex, which has an archive of club members, said he died on Sunday.

The town was home to a hospital where Lt Stangryciuk-Black and other injured heroes underwent operations led by medic Sir Archibald McIndoe.

The RAF Benevolent Fund said the men were key in 'challenging the perception that disabilities were life-limiting'.

Bob Marchant, secretary of the Guinea Pig Club, said Lt Stangryciuk-Black's death marked 'the end of an era'.

The airman left Argentina where his family had emigrated after deciding to volunteer for the RAF but was injured during a training accident in 1942.

After surgery, he was able to take part in 18 combat missions. Last year, burglars stole his medals and savings but donors raised 22,000 for him and his wife Jadwiga.
The shooting is the most deadly in the United States this year, and the worst since the El Paso shooting at a Walmart in 2019

A gunman has killed at least 18 people and injured 13 in the town of Lewiston, Maine, after bursting into a bowling alley and a bar and opening fire with an AR 15-style rifle last night.

The town is on lockdown as police hunt for suspect Robert Card, a 40-year-old US Army reserve firearms instructor who was hospitalized this summer for two weeks with mental health issues.

Officers have confirmed that Card's vehicle - a 2013 white Subaru - was found near the boat dock in Lisbon, about seven miles southeast of Lewiston, but the suspect was not inside.

Chilling CCTV images show the shooter pointing his rifle as he walked into the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley, while dramatic footage shows terrified people running for their lives. Residents have been told to lock their doors.

Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, had previously reported hearing voices and had threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine, according to the Maine Information and Analysis Center - a division of the Maine state police.

The 'armed and dangerous' shooter, who has been named as a 'person of interest' by police, was holding an AR 15-style rifle with a laser optic when he burst into the bowling alley at 7:15pm local time (12.15am BST) to begin his rampage.

Police then received calls about a shooting at a second location, Schemengees Bar and Grille, which was around four miles away. This is the deadliest attack of the 565 mass shootings in the US this year.

A gunman has killed at least 18 people and injured 13 in the town of Lewiston, Maine. Police in Lewiston are hunting for the suspect, pictured at the Sparetime recreation center. The first call came in for Sparetime at 7:15pm

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 18 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

The rampage began at 6:56pm and police in Lewiston, Maine's second city, were called to Sparetime bowling alley at 7:15pm.

They then received calls from a second location four miles away, Schemengee's bar and grill.

Police have named Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, as a 'person of interest': he is described as armed and dangerous.

His car has been found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, near the boat dock seven miles from Lewiston, local sheriffs said around 11:20pm

The death toll has been confirmed by the Lewiston city administrator at 18 dead and 13 injured: residents of Lewiston and Lisbon are told to shelter in place.

One bowler, who identified himself as Brandon, said he heard 10 shots ring out before he ran down the alley barefoot and climbed inside the bowling machinery to hide from the gunman.

'There was a loud pop,' he said. 'I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon, he was holding a weapon. I just booked it.

'I was putting on my bowling shoes when it started. I've been barefoot for five hours.'

Concerned friends and family members of possible victims are desperately hunting for information as they claim police won't tell them who the casualties are as it is an ongoing investigation.

Police were knocking on doors of homes in the local area, while helicopters remained in the area Wednesday night.

A shelter-in-place order remains in effect for Lewiston, and is also now in place in Lisbon, where Card's car was found.

Authorities have opened a reunification center at Auburn Middle School. Armed police were searching anyone coming onto the grounds.

Dozens of anxious relatives were hurried inside by officers, and DailyMail.com saw one woman sobbing behind the wheel of her car.

At least a dozen local officers surrounded the school, with volunteers taking emotional family members inside.

Lewiston city councilor Robert McCarthy said 18 people were dead, with 50-60 injured. Maine's hospitals said they were declaring a mass casualty event. The death toll, which could yet rise, is the largest from a mass shooting this year.

Card's sister-in-law told The Daily Beast they were in shock.

'I am with police right now and my children [are] terrified and shaken, so I do not have a comment on anything right now,' she said.

Sheriff Eric Samson of Androscoggin County said at least seven people had been fatally shot at the bowling alley.

The sheriff also announced at 11:20pm that officers had found Card's vehicle near the boat dock in Lisbon, but the suspect was nowhere to be seen.

McCarthy said he had been told that a children's party was taking place at Sparetime when the gunman opened fire. Nichoel Wyman Arel, who was passing by the site, told CNN's Laura Coates that she saw a large number of children pouring out of the bowling alley.

CCTV images show how the shooter was armed with a rifle when he carried out the mass shooting

Police officers in tactical gear get ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium as an active search for the shooter is underway

A law enforcement officer walks along the road leading to the Schemengees bar where the gunman opened fire

Card remains on the run: police have said he is driving a white Subaru

Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, is seen on a fishing trip

Dozens of anxious and distressed residents were hurried inside a reunification center at Auburn Middle School by officers

Police are pictured stationed outside the Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston on Wednesday night

Police are seen guarding the Central Maine Medical Center on Wednesday night in Lewiston

Shocked residents leave a reunification center early on Thursday morning after the mass shootings

Mike Sauschuck, a law enforcement spokesperson in Lewiston, said Card 'is considered armed and dangerous.'

'If people see him they should not approach him in any way,' he added.

Justin Juray, an owner of Sparetime, described the scene as 'total chaos.' He said in a text message to The New York Times that there were about 100 to 150 people, including 20 children, at the bowling alley at the time of the shooting.

Meanwhile, it was cornhole night at Schemengees.

'It was just a fun night playing cornhole it's the last thing you're expecting, right?' said co-owner Kathy Lebel.

She told The Sun Journal: 'I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.'

Maria Wilson, whose friend Arthur Strout may be missing, broke down in tears while speaking to media outside of Auburn Middle School.

She explained how she was told her friend - who was playing pool at the bar - was 'definitely alive' by police only for them to later say he was not at the scene.

Wilson, who does not know where her friend is, told reporters: 'It's not fair to give us false hope. And now we don't know what's going on. We've called everywhere.

'Cops are saying that they will not confirm or deny anybody being there because of its, you know, ongoing investigation.

'We have the right to know as a family if people are alive. He's a close family friend, and we had like, probably 15 people waiting in the hospital because we were told he was alive.'

Maria said her friend was playing pool and the person he was playing with is in a critical condition. 'This whole thing is heartbreaking,' she added.

One man inside the bar told the mayor of Auburn, Jason Levesque, that he heard 'a couple of pops', but did not think anything of it as it was around Halloween.

Levesque told CNN's Laura Coates it was only when people began running and screaming that he realized something was wrong.

A source told a Sun Journal reporter that there were 14 to 16 gunshot victims at Schemengees.

Joe Biden's state dinner with the prime minister of Australia was interrupted to inform the president of the incidents.

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to Card. Sheriffs said at 11:20pm on Wednesday the car was found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, about seven miles away

Law enforcement outside of Schemengees Bar, Lewiston, Maine. October 26, 2023

Biden later called the governor of Maine and both senators, and said the federal government was ready to assist in every way possible.

FBI operatives stationed in Boston said that the Bureau was ready to assist with the search.

'The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance,' the Bureau said.

A photo issued by sheriffs showed a white man with an AR-15-style rifle and a laser optic entering the Sparetime recreation center, wearing black combat trousers and a brown top. His face is clearly visible.

Police in Lewiston issued a photo of the white station wagon they were seeking, saying it could have a black-painted bumper.

'There is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston,' said Maine state police.

'Law enforcement is asking people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked.'

The local hospital said at 9pm they could not confirm casualties.

'Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients,' the hospital said.

The Maine Medical Center in Portland, which has the most advanced trauma center in the state, confirmed it has received one patient transferred from a Lewiston hospital.

Police audio said the two locations were Schemengee's bar and grill, and Sparetime recreation center.

The two sites are around four miles apart, in Maine's second-largest city.

Derrick St. Laurent, a Lewiston spokesman, told the Sun Journal that police were then called to a third location, a Walmart distribution center at 8:15pm, but Joe Pennington, a Walmart spokesman, said: 'This shooting did not occur on Walmart property.'

Police officers surround an armored law enforcement vehicle parked on the parking lot of the Lisbon High School gymnasium

Law enforcement vehicles drive on the parking lot of the Lisbon High School gymnasium

A police officer in tactical gear gets ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium

McCarthy told CNN: 'They have set up the National Guard center as a triage center.

'The hospitals have called up all off-duty staff. Our hospitals are not geared to cope with this, but they are doing the best they can.

'We are blessed with the best police in the state, and I am sure they are doing all they can.'

McCarthy said his own home was near the bowling alley, and they were barricaded inside with their guns.

'The bowling alley is in a business park,' he said.

'There were two restaurants next door, and a lot of patrons ran there.

'The other bar is way across town, on the outskirts of the city.

'There are also reports that the doors were shot out at the Walmart distribution center.'

Asked about efforts to identify the gunman, McCarthy said: 'They have a picture of a vehicle they believe he was in, and they have some unique characteristics - the front bumper is black. I'm told they have the plate number. I'm told they are looking for him hard.'

Footage shared on social media showed police racing to the scene in the town of 36,000 people, 35 miles north of Portland and 35 miles south of the capital, Augusta.

The city of Auburn, just across the Androscoggin River, has also warned residents to remain indoors.

'**ALERT: There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston,' they wrote on X.

'ALL Auburn & Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock all doors & report suspicious individuals and activities to 9-1-1.

'Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing.**'

Bates College, a private liberal arts college in Lewiston, is on lockdown, according to The New York Times.

Dozens of students are sheltering on the top floor of the college library, crouched down among the books and scrolling through social media for updates.

Classes are cancelled for Thursday.

'We know that these events have shocked and frightened our community,' said Geoffrey Swift, the college's vice president for finance and administration.

'And we grieve for those whose lives were tragically lost in this heinous act of violence.'

People are seen running from the scene of a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine

Crowds scattered after shots rung out on Wednesday evening

Police in Lewiston, Maine are seen rushing to reports of two shootings - one at a bar, one at a bowling alley

Janet Mills, the governor of Maine, said in a statement she was aware of the shootings and had been briefed.

'I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement,' Mills said in the statement.

'I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.'

Maine has a fairly high level of gun ownership, and relatively lax laws: Roughly half of its households have firearms, according to research cited by Maine public radio last year.

There is no independent background check system, no red flag law to identify those at extreme risk for gun violence, no requirement that convicted domestic abusers turn in their guns and no permit requirements for concealed weapons.

Card, as a certified firearms instructor, would have had no problem in obtaining weapons.

But unlike many states with such a large supply, it sees relatively few fatal shootings each year: 89 percent of gun deaths are suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

'There's no large cities in Maine,' said Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat.

'So this isn't like being in Dallas or New York City. It's a very tight-knit community in spite of the fact that it's a city, and I'm just sure there's just an enormous number of grieving families.'

Carl Sheline, the mayor of Lewiston, said he is 'heartbroken for our city and our people'.

He added: 'Lewiston is known for our strength and grit, and we will need both in the days to come.'

Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, tweeted his condolences, and expressed his anger at the shooting.

'Devastating news out of Maine. A mass shooting. Multiple locations. At least 16 dead, 50 injured, and thousands of lives forever changed,' he wrote on X.

'We don't have to live like this, and we definitely don't have to die like this.'

On Monday, the superintendent of Lewiston Public Schools, Jake Langlais, wrote to parents to inform them that he had been made aware of threats to the school - but they had determined the person making the threats was 10 years old, and lived in the Midwest.

'The individual responsible for the message that was threatening to LHS last night has been identified,' wrote Langlais, in a letter obtained by News Center Maine.

'Law enforcement has made contact and the situation has been taken care of.'

He said that school would operate as normal on Monday.

There is nothing to suggest that the threats to the school and Wednesday's shooting are connected.
The BBC has lost the confidence of the Jewish community over its coverage of the Israel-Hamas war, a Cabinet minister told the corporation's boss yesterday.

Director-General Tim Davie faced hostile Tory MPs at a meeting of the 1922 committee following weeks of criticism over the BBC's use of the word 'militants' to describe Hamas  and not terrorists.

Last week the corporation finally shifted its position in favour of describing the group as a terrorist organisation proscribed by the UK Government.

But Mr Davie continued to resist Tory calls for a change in editorial policy.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie (pictured) faced hostile Tory MPs at a meeting of the 1922 committee following weeks of criticism over the BBC's use of the word 'militants' to describe Hamas  and not terrorists

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick (pictured) told the Director-General that the BBC had 'lost the confidence of many people and in particular the British Jewish community'

At a charged meeting yesterday, immigration minister Robert Jenrick told the Director-General: 'I've never been so disappointed in the BBC as I have been this past fortnight.

'I worry that the organisation has lost the confidence of many people and in particular the British Jewish community. That loss of confidence began with the BBC's refusal to call Hamas terrorists. Will you reconsider that, and change your editorial policy?' However, Mr Davie refused to budge on the issue.

And a BBC spokesman said afterwards: 'We make it clear about what the Government has said about Hamas. It's not for us as a news organisation to proscribe any organisation as anything  what we do is set out to report what's happening, what people are saying, and then the public make their judgments. It's not about being neutral, it's about being able to report in the UK, in Gaza, in the Middle East.'

But furious Tory MPs, branded the meeting a 'waste of time'.

Vice-chairman Lee Anderson said: 'He [Mr Davie] obviously doesn't spend much time watching the BBC.'

The BBC has found itself in a battle with its own staff, with many complaining the corporation is being too biased towards Israel in its coverage.
Qantas has lost its top spot as the country's most trusted travel brand after the airline was plagued by a series of embarrassing blunders.

The national carrier lost the top gong to Virgin Australia in the 'Trusted Brand Awards for 2023' on Wednesday.

Roy Morgan Australia released the list on Wednesday after canvassing the opinions of 25,000 residents asking them which brands they trusted the most.

Qantas was initially rated as the most trusted travel brand in 2022 with its fall from grace blamed on the many controversies surrounding the airline, including high ticket prices, illegal sackings and poor luggage handling.

Qantas has lost its top spot as the country's most trusted travel brand after the airline was plagued by a series of embarrassing blunders

The carrier has gone through a massive shake-up as a result of the troubles with its CEO Alan Joyce replaced and high-profile board members resigning

Australian country music star Lawrie Minson shared photos of his guitar case (above) which was destroyed during a Qantas flight from Sydney to Darwin

An ACCC investigation was launched into allegations the airline sold tickets on already cancelled flights, while Australia's High Court found the carrier had illegally sacked more than 1,500 staff during the Covid-19 pandemic.

READ MORE: Aussie mum of three slams 'despicable' Qantas An Aussie mum has blasted Qantas as 'a despicable company' for being prepared to leave her family stranded 'on the other side of the world' for two weeks after it botched their flights. Brisbane mum Tarnya Allen and her two 'anxious' kids (pictured) missed their flight home because her calls to Qantas went unanswered Advertisement

The carrier has gone through a massive shake-up as a result of the troubles with its CEO Alan Joyce replaced and high-profile board members resigning.

'Over the last year we have witnessed many examples of how a lack of trust, and rising distrust, can destroy a brand's reputation and provide a direct hit to the bottom line,' Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine said.

In August, Roy Morgan revealed Qantas was the 13th 'most distrusted' company in Australia.

'The previously highly trusted Qantas nosedived, tumbling over 100 places from the 6th most trusted brand in June 2022 to the 13th most distrusted brand in June 2023,' the company said.

In a further blow, its domestic carrier, Jetstar, was also one of the least trusted brands, coming in 16th most distrusted.

Roy Morgan acknowledged Qantas maintains a good reputation for its safety record, which remains untarnished.

Qantas has also received a substantial sum of government handouts while it was making several cuts over the last few years.

The airline was handed $2.7billion in taxpayer subsidies, including $900million in JobKeeper subsidies, because of pandemic lockdowns.

Two weeks before he quit, CEO Alan Joyce announced Qantas had made a record $2.47billion profit.

Mr Joyce was also believed to have scooped a $24million golden handshake, despite being at the helm when the airline was plunged into several controversies.

Qantas had outsourced baggage handling and maintenance, was frequently criticised for falling standards and even fell into legal trouble under Mr Joyce's reign.

Gold Coast businesswoman Sam Cardone (pictured) had more than $6,000 charged to her credit card when trying to use her Qantas Pass to book family flights to Fiji

Last month the ACCC suggested Qantas should be fined $250million fine if the airline was found guilty of selling tickets for cancelled flights

Last month the ACCC suggested Qantas should be fined $250million fine if the airline was found guilty of selling tickets for cancelled flights.

Qantas came under fire again after laying off 6,000 staff during the Covid pandemic.

Of the 6,918 complaints received by the Airline Customer Advocate in 2022, more than 4000 were about Qantas.

The company appeared on NSW Fair Trading's public register of the most-complained about companies every month in 2023.

Gold Coast businesswoman Sam Cardone had more than $6,000 charged to her credit card when trying to book Qantas flights to Fiji using credit from cancelled flights.

The airline came under sustained fire over the difficulty of using its system for getting credit for flights cancelled due to pandemic lockdowns.

Australian country music star Lawrie Minson erupted at Qantas luggage handlers on Facebook after the metal case holding his custom Maton guitar was destroyed.

Mr Minson shared photos and video of the clumsily repaired case Qantas returned to him after he flew from Sydney to Darwin in early August.

Handlers wrapped the aluminium case in a few pieces of orange tape after it was almost completely crushed while in transit.

Baggage problems were a recurring issue.

One mum flying from Sydney to Wellington was left waiting at a deserted baggage carousel at 2am only to be told Qantas decided not to load their 60 bags due to weight concerns on the flight.

Her flight was also late.
This is the shocking moment a man shouted 'Free Palestine' after being arrested by police for bursting into a home while a family slept inside.

The alleged intruder, who has not been identified, can be heard screaming 'Free Palestine' and 'Brown Lives Matter' as he was cuffed after he broke into a house and shouted anti-Semitic insults early on Wednesday morning.

The Los Angeles Police Department's North Hollywood Division units responded to the incident at around 5.20am in the 3000 block of Laurel Canyon Boulevard.

One of the homeowner, with nine-month permanency , called 911 during the home invasion, and said a man had broken in through the door where she was with her husband and four children.

'[He said] I'm going to kill you because you are Jewish  Israel kills people,' she told KTLA in a phone interview.

The alleged intruder, who has not been identified, can be heard screaming 'Free Palestine' and 'Brown Lives Matter' as he was cuffed

After a few minutes, the husband was able to push the man out of their home and into their backyard.

The suspect was armed with a kitchen knife when officers arrived on the scene, Key News reported.

The man, in this 30s, reportedly entered the rear yard and kicked the door of the residence to break in, police said.

'Based on the investigation at scene, this incident is being investigated as a possible hate crime,' stated the LAPD.

'He was drunk,' one of the victims said, adding that he hurled anti-Semitic insults for six or seven minutes.

She also said she has seen him before around the neighborhood.

It's possible that the victims were targeted because they have Jewish symbols around the house, she said.

Her husband wears Jewish Yamaka hat on his way to work everyday, she added.

The mans pants and belt were left at the property following the incident on Wednesday morning

The man was half-naked when being arrested and was taken away in a police cruiser

The man was half-naked when being arrested and was taken away in a police cruiser. His jeans and a belt appeared to be scattered around the house.

No one was injured during the attack, and no property was taken.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called the intrusion 'a vile act of hate' in a statement.

'In the wake of the terror and violence inflicted over the previous weeks, this is one of the worst fears of Jewish families across our country  hatred spilling across the threshold, destroying the sense of safety and sanctuary in a home,' the mayor said.

'We remain steadfast in support of the Jewish people  the people of Los Angeles will not cower to hate. We will respond to it.

'The Los Angeles Police Department will continue to conduct increased patrols in communities throughout our City and I call on officials to take action to ensure the person responsible for this heinous act is held fully accountable.

'We will always stand together,' Mayor Bass said.

The identity of the man and charges he faces remain unclear as of Wednesday evening.
Avoiding a copy cat cycle of convicts refusing to appear in court for sentencing is a key government priority, the Justice Secretary insisted yesterday.

Alex Chalk said there was a real concern that serious criminals would imitate previous notorious cases and refuse to come to the dock for sentencing.

Under new laws announced by Rishi Sunak in August, criminals who refuse to attend could face being dragged into court by force. Serious offenders who continue to resist will be handed an extra two years imprisonment.

The long-awaited new measures were pledged after a series of killers dodged their sentencing hearings, including Britains worst child serial killer Lucy Letby.

Others that have refused to attend include Thomas Cashman, the murderer of schoolgirl Olivia Pratt-Korbel; Koci Selamaj, the killer of school teacher Sabina Nessa; and Jordan McSweeney, who murdered law graduate Zara Aleena.

I think there is a proper public interest for acting promptly because copy-cattery is a real concern, Mr Chalk told the House of Lords justice and home affairs committee.

Avoiding a copy cat cycle of convicts refusing to appear in court for sentencing is a key government priority, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk insisted yesterday

Under new laws announced by Rishi Sunak in August, criminals who refuse to attend could face being dragged into court by force

Failure to attend court led to public outrage, he added.

Once that verdict comes in, they must answer for their crimes - that is the way we keep public confidence in the system and that is why we are bringing in this measure.

We will legislate in the coming session and we will get it on the Statute Book before the next election.

We are clear that there is a proper public interest and it strengthens the rule of law for victims to understand that those who have shattered lives, betrayed trust and destroyed families should be in court to hear societys condemnation expressed through the sentencing remarks of the judge.

We cant have the situation where the likes of Thomas Cashman and the killer of Zara Aleena say Im not turning up as a matter of choice.

In August, officials said the new legislation will make clear that reasonable force can be used to bring criminals to the dock, or to view a video link.

If an offender continues to resist attending their sentencing despite a judges order, they will face an extra two years behind bars.

Judges will have discretion over whether they use the new powers.

For example, a judge could decide not to order an offenders attendance if it could lead to disruption in court which would distress victims or relatives.

The Justice Secretary said judges would be able to decide on the facts of the case in front of them.

He indicated there would not be a consultation process before the proposals are introduced, but said he was already talking to judges about the measures.

There is a proper interest in getting these people in court, there is a proper interest in showing the discretion of the court is upheld - and that is broadly where we have got to, he said.

That conversation actually does not take long.

The measures have yet to be published but are expected to be tabled soon as an amendment to the Victims and Prisoners Bill, which is currently before Parliament.
Councils could face financial consequences for pursuing the strategy in future

Ministers will today order councils to stop four-day working week trials - and ban any new such 'experiments' - following a backlash.

New guidance from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) will say that the changes to working practices are not value for taxpayers' money.

It will include possible financial consequences for councils that pursue the strategy in future in spite of the guidance.

It comes after the first town hall to let staff enjoy a four-day week came under pressure to scrap the scheme after ministers said it provided a worse service for residents.

South Cambridgeshire District Council was told it risks a costly legal challenge as it failed to seek people's views before bringing in the radical change to working practices.

South Cambridgeshire District Council (pictured) was told it risks a costly legal challenge as it failed to seek people's views before bringing in the radical change to working practices

The guidance was issued after Local Government minister Lee Rowley wrote a letter to the council calling on it to 'end your experiment immediately' saying he had concerns about the 'value for money' for local taxpayers.

The new rules will say that local authorities should halt four-day week trials immediately and rule out adopting the practice in future to ensure taxpayers' money is well spent.

The guidance sets out that removing 20 per cent of a local authority's potential capacity does not offer value for money for residents.

DLUHC is also exploring measures to ensure the sector is clear this should not be pursued in future, it said.

The guidance will say: 'Councils which are undertaking four-day working week activities should cease immediately and others should not seek to pursue in any format.

Local Government minister Lee Rowley wrote a letter to the council calling on it to end four-day week experiment

'Value for local taxpayers is paramount and no further focus should be given by local authorities on this matter.

'The department is also exploring other measures to ensure that the sector is clear that this working practice should not be pursued.'

Mr Rowley said: 'Our new guidance makes clear that this ideological experiment with taxpayers' money must end.

'Every decision we make must put the best interests of taxpayers first and reducing a fifth of a council's capacity flies in the face of common sense.

'Those councils that disregard this guidance are now on notice that the Government will take all necessary steps to end this practice for good.'

In July, DLUHC launched the new Office for Local Government (Oflog) to increase councils' accountability for their performance.
A prominent hedge fund billionaire has declared students protesting Israel have 'sh*t for brains' - after thousands descended on his alma mater Wednesday in support of Palestinians.

The pointed comment came from Columbia Business School Grad Leon Cooperman - who also vowed to stop giving to Columbia unless he sees a 'change.'

Citing how he's given some $50million to the school over the years, the 80-year-old proceeded to tear into the pro-Palestinian procession, as well as a professor who led the charge by calling this month's attacks by Hamas 'awesome.'

During the interview with Fox Business' Liz Claman, Cooperman, 80, said he's demanded school brass fire the tenured instructor but has been ignored.

Honing in more on the mob of students, he explained why he believed their support for the Palestinians was wrong, citing the Middle East's questionable civil rights record.

Scroll down for video:

Prominent hedge fund billionaire Leon Cooperman on Wednesday declared students protesting Israel have 'sh*t for brains' - after thousands descended on his alma mater earlier in the day in support of Palestinians

The interview saw The Columbia grad hone in on the mob of students - pictured on the school's campus Wednesday afternoon - and explain why he believed their support for the Palestinians was wrong, citing the Middle East's civil rights record

'We have one reliable ally in the Middle East - thats Israel,' said the chairman and CEO of Omega Advisors, a New York-based investment firm that runs over $3.3 billion in assets.

'We only have one democracy in the Middle East. Thats Israel,' he continued. 'And we have one economy tolerant of different people - gays, lesbians, etc. And thats Israel.

'So,' he proclaimed, 'I have no idea what these young kids are doing.'

When asked what he thought of what transpired at Columbia earlier in the day - as well as what's been happening at several other schools across the US - Cooperman simply said: 'I think these kids at the colleges have sh*t for brains.'

The curt response from the Columbia business grad - who is worth a reported $2.8billion - seemed to take Claman aback, shortly after she cited Cooperman's Polish-Jewish heritage and the fact that his parents were both immigrants.

While attempting to craft a response, Cooperman interrupted her a second time - before detailing what he called 'his true shame' about the situation.

He said: 'Now, the real shame is Ive given to Columbia, probably about $50 million over many years.'

He went on to reveal his plans of ceasing any more donations to the Manhattan institution.

'Im going to suspend my giving,' he said, before adding: 'Ill give to other organizations.'

Cooperman, the son of two Polish-Jewish immigrants, said: 'Now, the real shame is Ive given to Columbia, probably about $50 million over many years... Im going to suspend my giving. 'Ill give to other organizations'

The assertion seemed to leave his interviewer visibly surprised, and spurred her to ask the question again - to which Cooperman again responded affirmatively, saying: 'Yeah, unless I see a change'

The assertion seemed to leave his interviewer visibly surprised, and spurred her to ask the question again.

'So, right here right now, youre saying no more money to Columbia?' Claman asked.

Cooperman again responded affirmatively, saying: 'Yeah, unless I see a change.'

At that point, the billionaire turned his attention to the tenured professor said to have led the demonstration, Modern Arab Politics and Intellectual History Joseph Massad - who days ago billed Hamas terror attacks and taking of Israeli hostage as 'awesome'.

A petition calling for his ouster has since been penned, and has garnered more than 45,000 signatures.

It accuses Massad - a Columbia grad himself who started teaching at the school in 1999 - of 'condoning and supporting terrorism'.

Cooperman, visibly perturbed, said: 'I told them that they should fire this professor that made the comments he made.'

He continued: 'I mean, war is hell. War is not good for anybody, but to praise what Hamas did is disgraceful, disgusting.'

The interview continued without incident - as did the peaceful procession in Uptown Manhattan.

When asked what he thought of what transpired at Columbia earlier in the day - as well as what's been happening at several other schools across the US - Cooperman simply said: 'I think these kids at the colleges have sh*t for brains'

At that point, the billionaire turned his attention to the tenured professor said to have led the demonstration, Modern Arab Politics and Intellectual History Joseph Massad - who days ago billed Hamas terror attacks and taking of Israeli hostage as 'awesome'

It did, however, force school officials to nix a critical fundraising event for Columbia, which raised nearly $30 million in just 24 hours last year.

The called-off event, Columbia Giving Day, has yet to be given a new date.

The school said in a statement: 'After careful consideration and consultation with University and alumni leadership, we decided that this is not the appropriate time to move forward with Columbia Giving Day.

'It is postponed for the time being, and a decision on rescheduling will be made in the near future.'

Columbia President Minouche Shafik, meanwhile, issued his own statement earlier in the month - one that urged members of the school community to avoid language that 'vilifies, threatens or stereotypes entire groups of people.'

The statement added how this type of speech 'will not be tolerated' - and spurred a fiery response from Shai Davidai, an assistant professor at the Columbia Business School.

Given last week, it saw the instructor publicly slam his boss a 'coward' for failing to silence 'pro-terror' voices at the university.

'If my amazing two-year-old daughter was now 18 years old, I would never, never, never send her to Columbia,' Davidai said in front of students.

Meanwhile, similar pro-Palestine processions have continued to sprout up across the country, with universities surfacing as hotspots. As Cooperman was speaking to Fox Wednesday, a group of students were forced to flee a mob of pro-Palestine activists inside Manhattan's Cooper Union

Also on Wednesday, NYU students were seen holding up 'keep the world clean' signs in the heart of Manhattan - in the latest incidence of pro-Palestine sentiment in progressive universities

Pro-Palestine demonstrators gather for a protest at Columbia University earlier this month

Pro-Israel students were seen taking part in a simultaneous protest in support of Israel at the school, showing the simmering tensions at universities across the country

'Not because its not a great institution,' he continued. 'Its an amazing institution. But because I know that she will not be protected there because the president of the university allows pro-terrorists to march on campus.'

Meanwhile, similar pro-Palestine processions have continued to sprout up across the country, with universities surfacing as hotspots.

As Cooperman was speaking to Fox Wednesday, a group of Jewish students were forced to flee a braying mob of pro-Palestine activists inside Manhattan's Cooper Union, locking themselves in a library while the crowd hammered on the door.

Also on Wednesday, NYU students were seen holding up 'keep the world clean' signs in the heart of Manhattan - in the latest incidence of pro-Palestine sentiment in progressive universities.

Meanwhile, the conflict overseas has continued to rage.

Israeli forces including tanks rolled into northern Gaza overnight to carry out targeted raids against 'terrorist cells' in preparation for its ground war against Hamas, the IDF said today.

Israel's Army Radio described the raid as larger than previously carried out during the Gaza war, now in its third week after Hamas murderers slaughtered around 1,500 civilians on October 7.

Meanwhile, the conflict overseas has continued to rage. Also on Wednesday, the IDF said that tanks and infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts

The IDF said that tanks and infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts. They added that the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory.

It comes after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last night warned Hamas terrorists they were 'doomed' as he vowed to push ahead with a ground invasion of Gaza last night.

The battle-hardened premier said the battle against the gunmen who massacred civilians on October 7 was necessary to 'save our country' and the airstrikes on Gaza were only 'the beginning'.
A zoo is fighting to save a lioness and her three cubs from the horrors of war and bring them to Britain after they were abandoned in Ukraine following Russia's invasion.

The cubs' pregnant mother had to fight for herself in an abandoned private zoo, in the Eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine as Russian missiles struck Ukraine when invaders stormed the border in February last year,

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is urgently working to give mum Aysa, three, and her ten-month-old cubs Emi, Santa and Teddi a 'wonderful new life' on its sprawling reserve.

And the malnourished big cat suffered alone in her bleak enclosure as the sounds of exploding bombs and gunfire echoed around her.

Aysa was eventually rescued and taken to a temporary sanctuary near Ukraine's capital, Kyiv.

A zoo is fighting to bring a lioness and her three cubs to Britain after they were abandoned in war-torn Ukraine following Russia 's invasion

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is urgently working to give mum Aysa, three, and her ten-month-old cubs Emi, Santa and Teddi a 'wonderful new life' on its sprawling reserve

She then gave birth to her three adorable cubs before the new family was transported to a holding facility in Poznan, Western Poland.

But Colin Northcott, from Yorkshire Wildlife Park, said he could tell the young lions still bore the scars of war when he recently jetted off to visit them. He said: 'The lions were so distressed when I first encountered them

'The cubs - Teddi, Emi and Santa - cowered on top of each other in the corner and often hissed and spat loudly at me.

'Seeing them so terrified made me feel desperately sorry for them.

'They were extremely nervous and tried to get as far away as possible from me. This was completely understandable considering what they have been through.

'By the end of the week that I was there, they were starting to trust me more so I felt terrible leaving them behind.

He added: 'They have experienced so much trauma and deserve a wonderful new life in Yorkshire. We need to get them here as fast as possible.'

The zoo previously rescued 13 lions from a Romanian zoo in 2010 and brought them to Yorkshire with the help of the charity the Wildlife Foundation.

The pride then went on to enjoy a happy and healthy life in the park, which covers some 260 acres.

There is currently no arrival date for Asya and her cubs to come to the zoo, but staff are working with Polish authorities to arrange the necessary paperwork

Colin Northcott, from Yorkshire Wildlife Park, said he could tell the young lions still bore the scars of war when he recently jetted off to visit them

There is currently no arrival date for Asya and her cubs to come to the zoo, but staff are working with Polish authorities to arrange the necessary paperwork.

And Colin said he's already begun preparing the family for life in their new home by playing them sounds from the park, which has more than 400 animals.

He said: 'After spending some time with the lions, they have become more comfortable with me, and I hope to continue this progress in Yorkshire.

'We can't wait to rescue them and offer them a fresh beginning within the park.'

John Minion, CEO of Yorkshire Wildlife Park, said he hoped his team could give Asya and her young cubs the life they deserve.

He added: 'When Lion Country was built for the rescue of the 13 lions from Romania in 2010, it was built with the help of donations from people who loved animals and wanted to help rescue the animals.

'It was always meant to be a welfare facility and now we are in a position where we can offer a home to these poor lions and hope that we can make a difference to their lives, just as we did for the Romanian lions in 2010.'
A snorkeler who spent an hour gathering underwater rubbish in Perth was shocked to find a deadly blue-ringed octopus had slipped into his gear.

Mat Rogerson shared a series of photos of the octopus after discovering it clinging to his goggles last weekend.

'I didn't feel a bite, but now read the bite is painless,' he wrote online.

Mr Rogerson said he'd carefully taken the octopus back to North Beach but was puzzled how it'd stayed hidden.

'Either came out of the black snorkel or blue rubber dog ball with a hole in it, as other junk had no hiding places,' he said.

'I'll be far more careful what I tuck into my wetsuit in future.'

Perth snorkeller Mat Rogerson was collecting rubbish off North Beach but returned home to find a blue-ringed octopus in his gear

Mr Rogerson shared a series of photos of the octopus after discovering it clinging to his goggles

The blue-ringed octopus is considered one of Australia's deadliest creatures, with a potent venom, called tetrodotoxin, that can kill in minutes.

They are often found in tide pools and coral reefs.

Aussies were shocked by Mr Rogerson's luck and joked it was the universe repaying him for helping keep the ocean clean.

'Karma. You did good. Little bluey have you a pass,' one said.

'Well done. You managed to clean up the ocean, help out an octopus and not die all in an hour or two!,' another said.

'Id rather get bitten by a shark than that thing,' another added.

'Good karma. Thank you for your efforts to clean up our oceans, and for releasing the little fella,' a fourth person said.
A two-storey home in Sydney has been completely destroyed by a vicious house fire.

Eight trucks carrying 30 firefighters rushed to the scene at Oyster Bay, near Miranda in Sydney's south, after receiving an emergency call shortly before 11am.

Live footage from a helicopter hovering above the scene captured the intensity of the blaze as flames consumed the entire home.

Authorities confirmed all occupants of the house were safely evacuated and no injuries have been reported.

Firefighters initially held concerns the blaze would spread to neighbouring properties but were able to bring the fire under control.

Fire and Rescue New South Wales are preparing for investigators to arrive at the scene and determine the cause of the fire.
The ex-girlfriend of Marvel actor Jonathan Majors has been arrested for allegedly striking him, after accusing the actor of assaulting her earlier this year.

Grace Jabbari, 30, was arrested Wednesday evening at Manhattan's 10th Precinct for attacking Majors, law enforcement sources told TMZ.

Sources told the outlet that Jabbari had scratched Majors on his right hand and smacked him in the face with an open hand, causing a cut to his cheek and ear.

Jabbari is also alleged to have tore buttons off his coat, TMZ reported she was booked for misdemeanor assault and criminal mischief.

It comes after Majors, 34, lost his motion to dismiss his domestic assault charges Wednesday, after he was arrested in March on misdemeanor for allegedly attacking Jabbari.

Jabbari allegedly scratched Majors on his right hand and smacked him in the face with an open hand, causing a cut to his cheek and ear

Majors(pictured) lost the motion to dismiss his domestic assault charges on the same day Jabbari was arrested and is facing a trial

Majors faces four misdemeanor charges of harassment and assault after being arrested following the alleged domestic violence incident.

London-based Jabbari initially told police Majors hit and strangled her, but the strangulation charges were dropped.

Now, he is only charged with hurting her arm after police noted she sustained minor injuries after the alleged ordeal.

In court on Wednesday, Majors lost his motion to dismiss his domestic assault charge and will now go to trial.

Judge Michael Gaffey made the ruling in a Manhattan court hearing that Majors attended via video link because he was out of the state.

On September 12, his attorneys filed the motion and claimed the state withheld evidence that would prove Majors' innocence. This was denied on Wednesday.

A trial start date has not been set.

Jabbari is also alleged to have tore buttons off his coat, TMZ reported she was booked for misdemeanor assault and criminal mischief

Majors, pictured left with his partner Meagan Good, right, is charged with hurting his ex-girlfriend's arm after police noted she sustained minor injuries after the alleged ordeal

Judge Michael Gaffey made the ruling during a Manhattan court hearing today. Majors attended via video link, because he was out of the state. He is pictured in court on June 20

Jonathan Majors and Grace Jabbari attend 'Devotion' Premiere at Cinesphere on September 12, 2022 in Toronto

The messy proceedings were further muddled when Majors filed a cross-complaint against Jabbari, saying that it was her who attacked him.

An NYPD document was created, alerting officers that there was probable cause to arrest Jabbari in June.

The prosecutor on the case has allegedly said that they will not prosecute Jabbari, reports Hollywood Reporter.

Jabbari's lawyer has not commented, nor has the NYPD.

Priya Chaudhry, Jonathan Majors' attorney, also did not comment - but has previously shown her steadfast belief that her client Majors is innocent, and that Jabbari ought to be apprehended.

The opposing sides disagree over who the perpetrator of the event on March 25 is.

According to court documents, the couple were in a car when Jabbari saw a message on Majors' phone that read 'Wish I was kissing you right now.' She grabbed the phone, at which point Majors twisted her forearm and struck her ear.

She tried to exit the car, and he 'threw her back inside,' causing her 'sustained substantial pain, including a fractured finger, bruising about her body, a laceration behind her right ear, and a bump on her head,' the documents state.

Grace Jabbari was allegedly attacked by her former partner in March, and he was arrested on misdemeanor charges

Jonathan Majors' ex-girlfriend Grace Jabbari (pictured)

On August 4, Priya Chaudhry said in a statement to DailyMail.com: 'Jonathan Majors has been waiting for 132 days to clear his name of these false allegations while the NYPD waits to arrest his accuser upon her New York return.'

And on August 3, the attorney said: 'One hundred and thirty-one days ago, authorities unjustly cuffed Jonathan Majors in his own home, hauling him off to jail based on the word of a woman now hunted by the NYPD.

'Bravely, Jonathan Majors laid bare to the NYPD the relentless, alcohol-fueled abuse he suffered at the hands of Grace Jabbari, an enduring nightmare in their relationship.

'Now, as soon as Jabbari sets foot back in New York, the NYPD stands ready to arrest her.

'For an excruciating four months, Jonathan Majors, the real victim in this shameful ordeal, has had his life, career, and reputation torn apart.

'Yet he remains unwavering in his determination to be absolved from this harrowing ordeal.'

Chaudhry requested a quick trial date for Majors in June, in a bid to speed up the case.

Then on September 6, prosecutors said they were ready for trial and had filed a certificate of compliance, Majors' attorney claimed to find deficiencies within the document.

This is what caused them to file the motion to dismiss - which has now been denied.
An angry Maine resident who took shelter in his home after a mass shooter opened fire just one block from his home has said he is 'locked and loaded' while a bar owner at a second shooting site has revealed patrons had been playing cornhole.

Don Dostie, 61, shared a post to Facebook as police in Lewiston, Maine, continue to scour the area for the active shooter who was seen carrying a long rifle.

Dostie told DailyMail.com that he's sheltering with his wife Dinny, 54, and said they're 'safe' for the time being.

'If any of these shooters come near my house, I'm not going to ask how they are doing,' he finished.

Dostie said he heard shots in the distance and police cars flying past Main Street as well as multiple ambulances taking victims to hospital.

At least 22 people have been shot dead in a mass shooting and 50-60 people injured at numerous locations.

Police are also now seeking Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor from Bowdoin, who is a 'person of interest'

Don Dostie, seen here with his wife, shared a post to Facebook as police in Lewiston, Maine, continue to scour the area for the active shooter

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 22 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

The 61-year-old said that the he and his wife often walk their dog near the bowling alley and heard that several other business were hit before they took shelter.

'Most of us in Maine, we hunt, I'm a pretty good shot,' Dostie said when asked what he would do if he came face to face with the shooter.

'I heard sirens about a half hour ago and I thought I heard a few shots in the distance. We're staying inside our house.'

Dostie also told CNN: 'You've had these interviews with people over the country before, you just can't believe it is going to happen in your hometown. It's unreal.'

Card was armed with an AR 15-style rifle with laser optics when he burst into the bowling alley at 7:15pm to begin his rampage.

He was driving a 2013 white Subaru: Eric Samson, sheriff of Androscoggin County, announced at 11:20pm that law enforcement officers have found the vehicle in Lisbon, about seven miles southeast of Lewiston - but Card was not inside.

Mike Sauschuck, a law enforcement spokesperson in Lewiston, said Card 'is considered armed and dangerous.'

Police audio said the two locations were Schemengee's bar and grill, and Sparetime recreation center.

The Sun Journal reported that Kathy Lebel, the co-owner of Schemengees said patrons had been playing cornhole in the bar and grill when the shooting started.

She told the outlet: 'It was just a fun night playing cornhole  its the last thing youre expecting, right?

'I still feel like this whole thing is a nightmare.'

Mack Bray, who works as an electrician, had been in the town for a union meeting when he stopped at the bar for a beer. He left just two hours prior to the shooting.

He told The Daily Beast: 'That's what is so shocking. There were a lot of people that were just, like, slaughtered not that far away from where we were discussing union business.'

St. Laurent told the Sun Journal that the first call, to Sparetime, came at around 7:16pm.

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to Card. Sheriffs said at 11:20pm on Wednesday the car was found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, about seven miles away

The 61-year-old said that the he and his wife often walk their dog near the bowling alley and heard that several other business were hit before they took shelter

People are seen running from the scene of a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine

Footage shared on social media showed police racing to the scene in the town of 36,000 people, 35 miles north of Portland and 35 miles south of the capital, Augusta.

Justin Juray, an owner of the bowling alley where the authorities said a shooting took place, told The New York Times that he had been present at the time of the shooting.

Juray had described the scene as 'total chaos', and said he could not speak further following the incident.

In a post to his Facebook, he said: 'Just an update for everyone. Samantha [his wife] and I were able to get out unharmed. Please pray for everyone else that was less fortunate.'

Inside Bates College, a private liberal arts college in Lewiston, dozens of students were pictured sheltering on the top floor of the library.

Auburn resident Anne Kinney told the Sun Journal she had been out picking up a prescription in Lewiston when she was notified of the active shooter.

She said: 'A loudspeaker in the store came on telling us that there was an active shooter situation and that all entrance [and]exit doors were being locked.

'An employee brought some of us chairs to sit on. A local policeman eventually arrived and advised store folks to let us out one by one, if we wished, and then to dim store lights and completely close.'

Nichoel Wyman Arel, who managed to capture video of people fleeing for their lives, told CNN: 'Roughly 20 people were downed and we left right away. Me and my youngest daughter had been on our way home from girl scouts.

Justin Juray, an owner of the bowling alley, is seen here with his wife Samantha. The two managed to make it safely away from the shooting

Nichoel Wyman Arel, who managed to capture video of people fleeing for their lives, told CNN she had seen people fleeing the scene covered in blood

'I was zoomed in, we just saw a lot of campus staff, people getting patted down just to make sure they weren't causing what was going on in there.

'There was kids, that was probably the hardest part. Seeing families pour out of there knowing that happened in there while they were having a family night.'

Arel continued: 'We did see some people as we were leaving the scene, we did see somebody who looked like they had blood all over them.

'It was all kind of a blur, I wasn't taking in a lot of the details.

On Wednesday, Lewiston schools had been hosting parent-teacher conferences when they were put into lockdown.

Superintendent of Lewiston Public Schools, Jake Langlais said: 'All, please get to a safe place if you are at or near a school for conferences we are going into lockdowns.

'I will provide more information as soon as it is available and appropriate. Right now, we need to let law enforcement do what they need to do.'
Joe Biden was briefed on the ongoing active shooter incident in Maine during a visit with Australia's prime minster, the White House has revealed.

Biden, 80, received news of the fatal shooting - which has reportedly left at least 22 in Lewiston dead - this evening, but still attended a scheduled State Dinner at the White House with visiting leader Anthony Albanese.

A White House official said the head of state would receive updates as the situation develops - as at least one gunman with an AR 15-style rifle remains at large.

A massive manhunt is now on for the person responsible for the fatal shooting, after dozens of shots rang out at two separate locations across the city, leaving up to 60 injured.

Robert Card, 40, from Bowdoin, Maine, was named by Maine state police as the a 'person of interest' in the shootings at a bowling alley, restaurant and Walmart distribution center.

The death toll is still not confirmed, but Maine's hospital system said it had declared the incident a mass casualty event. Biden immediately got on the phone with Gov. Mills, Senators King and Collins, and Congressman Golden and has pledged 'full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack,' his press office shared.

Joe Biden has been briefed on the ongoing active shooter incident in Maine, the White House has revealed - during a visit with Australia's prime minster Anthony Albanese

Police in Lewiston are hunting for this man, pictured at the Sparetime recreation center. The first call came in for Sparetime at 7:15pm

Biden stepped away from the state dinner honoring Australia for a briefing on the shooting with his advisers, before returning. As of 10:45pm he was no longer at the event.

Meanwhile, even Eric Adams, the mayor of New York City, tweeted his condolences, while expressing anger over the nation's most recent mass shooting.

'Devastating news out of Maine,' The Democrat wrote of the still developing situation, 'A mass shooting. Multiple locations. At least 16 dead, 50 injured, and thousands of lives forever changed,' he wrote on X.

'We don't have to live like this, and we definitely don't have to die like this.'

A photo issued by sheriffs showed a white man with an AR-15-style rifle and a laser optic entering the Sparetime recreation center, wearing black combat trousers and a brown top. His face is clearly visible. The neighboring city of Auburn has also been placed on lockdown.

Police in Lewiston have also issued a photo of the white car they are seeking, saying it could have a black-painted bumper.

'There is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston,' said Maine state police.

'Law enforcement is asking people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked.'

The local hospital said at 9pm they could not confirm casualties.

Biden eventually stepped away from the state dinner honoring Australia for a briefing on the shooting with his advisers, before returning. As of 10:45pm he was no longer at the event

The death toll, as of 10pm, is still not confirmed, and cops are still searching for those responsible. Maine 's hospital system, meanwhile, said they were declaring the incident a mass casualty event. Biden has pledged full federal support in the wake of the tragedy

Devastating news out of Maine.



A mass shooting. Multiple locations. At least 16 dead, 50 injured, and thousands of lives forever changed.



We dont have to live like this, and we definitely dont have to die like this. https://t.co/NXptIyKKB7  Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) October 26, 2023

'Central Maine Healthcare is coordinating with area hospitals to take in patients,' the hospital said.

Police audio said the two locations were Schemengee's bar and grill, and Sparetime recreation center. The two sites are around four miles apart, in Maine's second-largest city.

Police were then called to a third location, a Walmart distribution center, said Derrick St. Laurent, a Lewiston spokesman.
A mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine is tracking to be the deadliest this year as America hits a somber milestone with more than 500 recorded already.

The mass shooting Wednesday night in Lewiston, Maine, has seen at least 22 deaths and up to 60 injured at three different locations.

Including this shooting the US has so far seen 565 mass shootings this year, data shows, making it the third year in a row the country has been hit the somber milestone, before November.

The shooting, where at least 22 were killed, stands as the deadliest shooting this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

Up to 60 injuries also represent the highest casualty count of any shooting in 2023.

Maine authorities ordered residents to shelter in place and warned to 'stay off the roads to allow emergency responders access to the hospitals.'

Including this shooting the US has so far seen 565 mass shootings this year, data shows, making it the third year in a row the country has been hit the somber milestone, before November

The devastating shooting in Maine will contribute one more tragic incident to this year's already alarming tally

A photo issued by sheriffs showed a white man with an AR-15-style rifle and a laser optic entering the Sparetime recreation center, wearing black combat trousers and a brown top

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to the gunman

Including this shooting the US has so far seen 565 mass shootings this year, data shows

A photo issued by sheriffs showed a white man with an AR-15-style rifle and a laser optic entering the Sparetime Recreation Center, wearing black combat trousers and a brown top.

The neighboring city of Auburn has also been placed on lockdown as the gunman is still at large.

Gun violence has claimed over 15,000 lives this year in the US, including over 240 children under 12 and more than 1,000 teenagers aged 12 to 17.

The day before the tragic events in Maine, a shooting in North Carolina claimed the life of a 19-year-old man and left two 18-year-olds and one 17-year-old injured.

A shooting last month in Denver which saw five people injured pushed the tally surpassed 500, according to the organization.

Gun Violence Archive, the independent organization which collects the data, defines a mass shooting as one in which four or more people were shot or killed, excluding the shooter.

The rise in gun violence is part of a chilling trend - go back just five years and the country had never experienced more than 500 shootings in a year, according to the research group.

Prior to the shooting in Maine, the deadliest shooting this year was the Monterey Park, CA, attack in January, in which gunman Huu Can Tran, 72, killed eleven people and injured nine in a predominantly Asian area on the eve of Lunar New Year.

Gun violence at a Sweet 16 birthday party in Dadeville, AL, also shocked the nation, with four young people murdered and 32 injured - the most casualties before the mass shooting in Maine.

A bloody handprint marks a pillar the day after a shooting at a during a teenager's birthday party at Mahogany Masterpiece Dance Studio in Dadeville, Alabama

Children hold hands as they leave The Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee, following the deadliest school shooting of 2023

In August, a gunman opened fire at a historic biker bar in Trabuco Canyon in Orange County, CA, murdering three and injuring six before he was shot by police.

In another incident, eight people were killed during a shooting back in January 4 in Cedar City, Utah, with Michael Haight killing his wife, their five children and his mother-in-law before turning the gun on himself.

School shootings are also on the rise, if the current continues as expected this year, with a staggering 236 incidents recorded by another research team, the K-12 School Shooting database.

The deadliest school shooting this year saw six murdered and six injured by transgender shooter Audrey Hale, who opened fire on March 27.

Three nine-year-old students and three adults were among those murdered during the attack on Nashville Christian school The Covenant.

The latest shootings have seen the number of mass shootings rise to 564.

The 500 mark was passed late night in Denver in September.

Then, around 1am on Sunday, a shooting in El Paso, Texas, saw a 19-year-old man killed and five others injured.

A shooting in Dorchester, MA, saw five people critically injured including a child who suffered life-threatening injuries, Boston Police said.

The Lai Lai Ballroom and Studio near the site of a deadly shooting on Saturday

The incident occurred at Cook's Corner, a bar in Trabuco Canyon, California, Wednesday night around 7:30 pm

The FBI defines a mass shooting as 'one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area' - a different metric to most organizations who consider the number of victims to define it as such.

There are about 120 guns for every 100 Americans, according to the Switzerland-based Small Arms Survey.

No other nation has more civilian guns than people, with around 44 percent of US adults living in a household with a gun.

Around one third own one personally, according to a November 2020 Gallup survey. A third of US adults believe that there would be less crime if more people owned guns.

Fears of gun violence have eclipsed other concerns, data from earlier this year shows

A girl runs as other shoppers leave with their hands up after police responded to a gunman who shot and killed eight people and wounded at least seven others at Allen Premium Outlets mall north of Dallas, Texas

However multiple studies show that where people have easy access to firearms then gun-related deaths are more frequent  including suicide, homicide and unintentional injuries.

Mass shootings also drive a demand for more guns, with many Americans feeling they are 'safer' if they personally own a weapon.

The rate of gun violence is eight times greater than in Canada, which has the seventh-highest rate of gun ownership in the world.
A detective who was central to rescuing kidnap victim Cleo Smith committed serious misconduct while in a 'relationship' with a young reporter, a corruption watchdog has found.

Detective Senior Sergeant Cameron Blaine became an international hero when Western Australian police released footage of showing him asking the four-year-old girl her name as she was carried out of a Carnarvon house in November 2021.

'My name is Cleo,' she said in the now famous video.

But misconduct allegations later emerged about the veteran detective and he was investigated by Western Australia's Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC).

The findings of that report were released on Thursday after being tabled in parliament, a day after Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine resigned.

The CCC found serious misconduct in relation to Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine making 'repeated disclosure of confidential information to media reporters' and the repeated misuse of a police four-wheel drive.

Detective Senior Sergeant Cameron Blaine (pictured) became an international hero when footage was released by WA Police showing him asking the four-year-old girl her name

The commission said Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine formed a relationship with a young female reporter after Cleo's rescue and repeatedly leaked information to her and other journalists.

During the investigation into Cleo's disappearance, Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine 'grew friendly' with a 22-year-old journalist, according to the report.

The journalist, codenamed 'Ms A' in the report, told the CCC she had an 'intimate relationship' with the detective, which he denied.

The CCC found Ms A had been invited to visit Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine at the Carnarvon Sea Change apartments a week after Cleo was rescued.

Detective Sergeant Blaine, now aged about 50, told investigators Ms A had attended his apartment but he did not divulge confidential information.

The CCC accepted Ms A's evidence about the events of the evening and what confidential information was passed by Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine to her.

'The Commission investigation found that DSS Blaine released confidential information in relation to his and other WAPF investigations, without any rational basis for doing so,' the CCC said in a statement.

'In the Commission's opinion, DSS Blaine's actions in releasing confidential information involved the misuse of information he acquired as a police officer as it was for his own benefit in maintaining a relationship and the benefit of the journalist.'

A detective who was central to rescuing kidnap victim Cleo Smith (pictured) has quit the police force just days before a corruption report about him is expected to be handed down

The report found the relationship between Ms A and Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine continued when they returned to Perth from Carnarvon.

'Any intimate relationship seems to have ended in February or March 2022, though contact was maintained between them until 24 June 2022,' it stated.

The CCC also identified 62 occasions on which Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine breached the police vehicle policy by using a Toyota Prado for personal reasons.

READ MORE: Cleo Smith's parents tie the knot at Noosa wedding Advertisement

'On some occasions, DSS Blaine recorded the purpose for taking the vehicle as police business,' the statement said.

'In the Commission's opinion, DSS Blaine's misuse of the motor vehicle is a breach of the trust placed in him as a senior police officer.'

Commissioner John McKechnie KC said: 'The Commission's report highlights two misconduct risks in the WA Police Force illustrated by the conduct of DSS Blaine'.

'WA Police officers are in positions of trust. They have access to information which should remain confidential.

'They have access to police assets to do their work effectively and efficiently. When that trust is abused, public confidence is lessened.'

The CCC seized the detective and Ms A's telephones phones and the contents of each was downloaded as part of its investigation.

'DSS Blaine detailed his opinion of Ms A, the nature of the relationship and her motive in giving what he regards as false evidence against him,' the commission's report found.

'DSS Blaine's characterisation of the relationship is belied by the content of messages recovered from the phones. The totality of his messages to Ms A paints a different picture from that he now portrays.'

A police spokeswoman confirmed this week the detective had already quit the force ahead of the report's release.

'Det Sen Sgt Cameron Blaine's resignation has been accepted,' a brief statement read.

'No further comment can be provided at this time.'

Resigning meant the officer would not have to face the prospect of being forced out of WA Police under what are known as Section 8 proceedings.

Under this process, Police Commissioner Col Blanch would have to explain why he lost confidence in the officer.

Cleo was rescued 18 days after she was taken from her family's tent at the Quobba Blowholes campsite on October 16, 2021.

Detectives forced their way into a house in Carnarvon, about 75km south of the camping site, on November 3 and found the little girl in a bedroom.

Talking to media the next day, Detective Senior Sergeant Blaine said it was 'absolutely fantastic to see her sitting there... it was incredible.'

'I asked her what her name was. One of the guys jumped in front of me and picked her up and I just wanted to be absolutely sure that... it was her,' he said at the time.

'I said, "What is your name?" She didn't answer... I asked three times and then she looked at me and said "My name is Cleo".'

The detective said it was the best moment of his career.

Cleo's kidnapper Terence Kelly was sentenced in April to 13 years and six months in jail.
An Australian woman who recently opened a sushi bar in New York has been accused of 'cultural appropriation' by Americans who object to her not being Japanese.

The one-time lawyer, dubbed 'Sushi Sheila' in online discussions, has been called a 'coloniser' and subjected to one-star Google reviews simply because she is white.

Having come under attack for days on social media, Sushi Sheila has now found support from users of the same platforms who have launched a concerted fightback.

Sushi Sheila first gained attention on TikTok where she documented quitting her corporate career to open Sushi Counter in New York's West Village earlier this month.

The restaurant's website promised 'Australian-style' sushi, including teriyaki chicken, spicy tuna, and avocado and cucumber, for the bargain price of $5 a roll or three for $12.

An Australian woman who recently opened a sushi bar in New York has been accused of 'cultural appropriation' by Americans who object to her being white. The owner of Sushi Counter (above) has been called a 'coloniser'

Sushi Counter was subjected to a barrage of one-star online reviews in a social media pile-on

'We do one thing (and we like to think we do it well) - Aussie-style hand rolls,' the website states.

'We may have a small footprint here in the West Village, but we have a big dream - to make fresh, yummy hand rolls you can afford every day of the week.'

That humble dream so enraged Seattle chef Eric Rivera that he took to social media accusing Sushi Sheila of cultural appropriation for being white.

'There aren't enough good sushi places in NYC so time to open one!' Rivera wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, on October 20.

'But it's 'stralian sushi. Give me a break colonizer. If you don't see why this is a problem you are part of the problem.'

Rivera, who has since deleted the thread, did not address his own plans announced last year to open a Puerto Rican/Japanese restaurant in North Carolina.

Deidree Golbourne, who describes herself as a financial planner, orator and 'cultural historian' using the handle 'Queer Latifa', joined in the attempt to shut Sushi Sheila down.

Sushi Sheila first gained attention on TikTok where she documented quitting her corporate career to open Sushi Counter in New York's West Village earlier this month

Deidree Golbourne, who describes herself as a financial planner, orator and 'cultural historian' using the handle 'Queer Latifa', joined in the attempt to shut Sushi Sheila down

'Why is someone who is not of Asian descent, better yet from Australia, opening a sushi spot in NYC?' she wrote.

'The contradiction and cognitive dissonance is maddening.

'She feels she can't "afford" decent sushi in NYC, a place that has one of the largest and vastly diverse Asian populations? So instead, she finances her own sushi spot.

'Colonization is white and quite scary to see in real time.'

Sushi Counter was subjected to a barrage of one-star online reviews in a social media pile-on.

'The last thing anyone needs are blonde hair, Australian white women appropriating Japanese cuisine,' one reviewer wrote, according to The Publica.

'We're sick of the disrespect inflicted upon our cultures by white people, enough is enough.'

.The restaurant's website promised 'Australian-style' sushi, including teriyaki chicken, spicy tuna, and avocado and cucumber, for the bargain price of $5 a roll or three for $12

Another posted: 'There are plenty of good AUTHENTIC sushi spots in this city and prices aren't crazy.'

'I suggest going to one of those. This is a colonizer sushi spot ran by a woman who thinks she can do better than actual Japanese people.'

Much of the criticism ignored the fact that Australian-style sushi is actually a real thing. Aussie sushi consists of bigger rolls and uses ingredients like salmon, tonkatsu, teriyaki chicken, tempura and avocado that are less common in Japan.

Sushi Sheila deleted the content on her TikTok account but gradually the tables were turned on her detractors and other users of the platform began posting positive videos hitting back at the cancel culture warriors.

Soon a torrent of five-star verdicts on the restaurant flowed onto Google, lifting its average rating to 4.8 stars.

Political commentator Matt Walsh took up the fight on behalf of Sushi Sheila, asking how a restaurant could be 'maddening' or 'scary' on the Daily Wire.

'As a sane person myself I can't fathom how anyone could conjure those kinds of emotions in relation to a sushi restaurant,' Walsh told his audience.

'The first and most obvious thing is that this deranged standard is only ever applied to white people and would never - and has never - gone the other way.

'You'll never hear of a pizza place being bombarded with negative reviews because it's owned by an Asian guy. Or a burger joint being protested because it's run by a Hispanic woman.

'You'll certainly never hear anyone telling a black chef what sorts of cuisine he isn't allowed to cook based on his race.'
A man who discovered a mysterious metal ball on a beach has made a stunning claim that it did not come from this world.

Phil Morris discovered the unidentified ball while using a metal detector on a beach in far north Queensland several weeks ago.

The large ball was found resting on the sand near the water's edge with only light discolouration and weathering.

Mr Morris has since become obsessed with finding the origins of the strange object and has claimed it is a piece of an unmanned rocket.

He said that after combing through 'thousands' of images online in his spare time, he discovered a very similar identified object was also found in Namibia a decade prior.

A man who found a mysterious metal ball (pictured) on a far-north Queensland beach claims it came from outer space and resembles a similar object that had fallen in Namibia

After seeing the image of the Namibian ball, Mr Morris 'knew it was identical'.

He believes it is a hydrazine bladder tank, which is used to store rocket propellant onboard an unmanned aircraft on satellite launches, which become detached and crashed back to Earth.

'I knew by looking at it that the metal had been extremely hot at some stage,' Mr Morris West told Yahoo.

'I believe it is more than likely this heavy metal ball crashed into the ocean before eventually washing ashore.'

He said in his four decades of combing beaches with and without a metal detector, this is by far his most 'unique' find.

'I thought I had found just about everything I could washed up,' he said.

Phil Morris claims the object he found was 'identical' to a ball found in Namibia, which was revealed to be a 'hydrazine bladder tank' (pictured) used to store fuel for unmanned rockets

Although it has not been officially identified as a propellant bladder, it would not be the first space-bound object to wash up on Australian shores this year.

A mysterious metal two-metre-tall-and-wide cylinder washed ashore near Green Head on Western Australia's mid-west coast in July.

Authorities had to warn beachgoers to keep clear of the cylinder as its origins were unknown for days.

However, the Australian Space Agency had 'determined the object is most likely a solid rocket motor casing'.

The rocket casing had fallen off an Indian LVM3-M4 rocket, which is designed to transport communication satellites into geostationary orbit.
'We won things no one thought possible,' UAW president Shawn Fain said Wednesday

The agreement still has to be approved by some 57,000 union members

The union has reached a tentative agreement with Ford over pay increases and improved benefits

The United Auto Workers union has reached a tentative new contract agreement with Ford - the first step towards ending a nearly six-week strike.

The four-year deal that includes a 25 percent general wage increase still has to be approved by 57,000 union members, but it could conclude the unions historic series of strikes at factories run by Ford, General Motors and Jeep maker Stellantis.

'We told Ford to pony up, and they did,' President Shawn Fain said in a video address to members. 'We won things no one thought possible.'

Wednesday marked 41 days since the strike began, making it the longest American auto strike in 25 years.

General Motors and Stellantis are still working with the union to reach an agreement.

The United Auto Workers union has reached a tentative contract agreement with Ford after nearly 6 weeks. Pictured: UAW President Shawn Fain

The four-year deal still has to be approved by 57,000 union members

Fain (left) and UAW Vice President Chuck Browning (right) announced an update about the deal on October 25

Fain said that Ford put 50 percent more money on the table than it did before the strike began over one month ago.

UAW Vice President Chuck Browning added that workers will get a 25 percent general wage increase, plus cost of living raises that will put the pay increase over 30 percent, to above $40 per hour for top-scale assembly plant workers by the end of the contract.

The automaker restored the pre-2009 cost of living adjustment and agreed to a three-year wage progression while removing wage tiers.

Ford, Stellantis and General Motors previously offered 23 percent pay increases. When negotiations began, Ford offered only 9 percent.

Browning said assembly workers will get 11 percent upon ratification, almost equal to all of the wage increases workers have seen since 2007.

Temporary workers will get a bigger 150 percent raise - more than they have received over the past 22 years combined.

Some workers at Ford's Sterling Axle and Rawsonville plants will see an 85 percent pay jump. Staff with pensions also will see a rise when they retire, and those hired after 2007 with 401(k) plans will get large increases.

For the first time, the union will have the right to go on strike over company plans to close factories, Browning said.

'That means they cant keep devastating our communities and closing plants with no consequences,' he explained. 'Together we have made history.'

He described the settlement as 'the most lucrative agreement per member since Walter Reuther was president.' Reuther led the union from 1946 until his death in 1970.

In a statement, General Motors said it is 'working constructively' with the union to reach an agreement as soon as possible.

Stellantis echoed the sentiment, adding that it is committed to hammering out a deal 'that gets everyone back to work as soon as possible.'

The deal with Ford may serve as a catalyst for deals with other auto manufacturers. Pictured: workers walk off the job at Stellantis' Sterling Heights Assembly Plant on October 23

Ford offered a 23 percent pay increase - at the start of negotiations, it offered only 9 percent. Pictured: Ford Motor Company CEO Jim Farley

For the first time, the union will have the right to go on strike over company plans to close factories. Pictured: workers hold a rally on October 7 in Chicago

The organization launched a targeted strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis on September 15. Pictured: workers hold up signs on September 29 in Michigan

The union's national leadership council plans to travel to Detroit on Sunday, where they will receive a presentation about the agreement and vote on whether to recommend it to members.

That evening, the union will host Facebook Live preceding regional meetings to explain the deal to members.

While on the picket line at Fords Michigan Assembly Plant Wednesday night, local union leaders invited workers to the union hall for a briefing on the deal.

Among them was Keith Jurgelewicz, who described the ordeal as an 'emotional time.' He appeared on the picket lines for all of his shifts.

'But just super excited that this is over with,' Jurgelewicz said. 'I just cant wait to get back to work and just get on with my life.'

President Joe Biden - who visited picketers early in the strikes - praised the agreement.

'Ive always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class,' Biden said in a statement.

'This tentative agreement is a testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table in a manner that helps businesses succeed while helping workers secure pay and benefits they can raise a family on.'

Workers will get a 25 percent general wage increase, plus cost of living raises that will put the pay increase over 30 percent. Pictured: a worker dons a pin while picketing outside Ford's Kentucky plant on October 12

UAW members picket outside a Stellantis facility in Michigan on September 22

Union members strike outside the Chrysler Toledo Assembly Plant in Ohio

Fain (in green) told workers in a video address: 'We won things no one thought possible'

Ford said it would focus on restarting the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville as well as the Chicago Assembly Plant, welcoming back 20,000 workers.

The Louisville plant alone employs 8,700 workers and makes larger versions of Ford's most profitable vehicle, the F150, as well as the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator - responsible for about $25 billion in annual revenue.

Union members can finally breathe a sigh of relief since negotiations began in mid-July, nearly one month before contracts were set to expire.

The organization launched a targeted strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis on September 15.

It called for 40 percent wage increases, a 32-hour workweek and better retirement benefits, among other demands.

As the UAW failed to reach an agreement with automakers, what followed was a series of layoffs.

Stellantis laid off 368 workers at the Toledo Machining Plant in Ohio and the Kokomo Transmission and Kokomo Casting facilities in Indiana.

General Motors laid off about 2,000 workers in Fairfax, Kansas, while Ford laid off 600 non-striking workers at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne shortly after the strike began.

President Joe Biden joins striking members of the UAW on the picket line outside GM's Willow Run Distribution Plant in Michigan on September 26

Former US President Donald Trump speaks at Drake Enterprises in an attempt to win support from auto workers on September 27

The strike saw some 30,000 members picketing at 44 facilities across the United States

Thousands of workers were laid off amid the protests. Pictured: union members picket at a Stellantis plant in Toledo, Ohio on October 25

Protestors were joined by Biden and Senator Bernie Sanders.

On September 27, former President Donald Trump even made an appearance when he gave a speech at Drake Enterprises, a non-unionized auto supplier in Macomb County.

In an attempt to garner support for his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump decried Biden's push for electric vehicles.

'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,' Trump said.

The protest continued to spread as the strike expanded to distribution centers and the highly profitable Louisville plant, where just under 9,000 employees walked off the job on October 11.

A day later, a Ford executive said the company - which had offered 20 percent raises and more vacation time - had 'reached its limit.'

The strike saw some 30,000 members picketing at 44 facilities across the country.
The NSW Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty Minister David Harris has acknowledged the road to establishing a state Treaty with Indigenous communities won't be easy.

It comes weeks after the Voice to Parliament referendum was resoundingly defeated.

NSW only began a Treaty process this year and is the last state or territory in the country to begin consultations with First Nations people.

Most states and territories are in the very early stages of treaty negotiations, with Victoria the furthest ahead in the process.

The NSW government had committed $5million to a one-year consultation process with Aboriginal communities that will ask whether they want a Treaty, and what that process should look like.

This was a commitment that was made before the state election in March.

NSW Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty Minister David Harris (pictured) has acknowledged the road to establishing a state Treaty with Indigenous communities won't be easy

The process would involve consultation and signing agreements with 150 different Indigenous groups.

If they do, the government would then take the policy to a subsequent election so it has a mandate to enact it.

Speaking at budget estimates on Thursday, Mr Harris said a decision would not be made until mid-2025 at the earliest.

Mr Harris said an independent Treaty Commission would be established by early to mid-2024, with discussions currently underway about who will be on the commission.

'It has to be a process that heavily involves Aboriginal people,' he said.

'What the Premier made clear was that we would let people talk about the Referendum and have that finish before we fully engage on Treaty.'

The government will also undergo 'wider community engagement' to educate people on what a treaty would involve, with further announcements slated for the end of 2023, and early 2024.

'We can't pre-empt what might occur in the consultation,' said Mr Harris.

'When you look at other states that this process has taken, six, seven years. No one is pretending this is a quick, easy process but we have to be respectful and do it right.'

NSW only began a Treaty process this year and is the last state or territory in the country to begin consultations with First Nations people (pictured, NSW Premier Chris Minns)

It comes after the Voice to Parliament referendum was resoundingly defeated earlier this month (pictured L-R, Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney, former AFL player Michael Long and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese)

Asked specifically how the government plans on spending the $5million on the consultation process, Mr Harris stressed the importance of ensuring collaboration with Aboriginal clans and peoples.

'I'm not going to be out there telling Aboriginal people when they have to make their decision by. That's the wrong thing to do and we understand that clearly,' he said.

He also said the government's treaty process would be guided by self-determination and working with community organisations.

'We need to consult more and walk in partnership more with Aboriginal people (and) have them more involved in decision making,' he said.

'(We) acknowledge that community controlled organisations have better outcomes, in terms of, you know, when they're directly funded and providing services to community.

'It's no great secret but there needs to be more community education around understanding that the best way forward is through self determination.'

NSW Premier Chris Minns has previously flagged his commitment to a Treaty but admitted, like Mr Harris, that it would be a difficult process.

Mr Minns has previously flagged his commitment to a Treaty but admitted, like Mr Harris, that it would be a difficult process

'As difficult and as long as that discussion will be, it is not tolerable that (the process) has not begun in NSW,' he said.

'It's going to be complex and difficult'.

Mr Minns has said he would be open to a state-based Voice as well but did not want to front discussions with Indigenous leaders about how to move forward following the referendum result.

That comes despite almost 60 per cent of voters in the state voting No in the referendum.
Amira Moghnieh, 30, was allegedly murdered by her estranged husband Ahmad Hodroj on July 6

A man who allegedly bashed his wife to death will not appear in court for another two months due to problems obtaining the pathology report for the case.

Amira Moghnieh, 30, was allegedly murdered by her estranged husband Ahmad Hodroj, 36, when she turned up to his Bexley home, in Sydney's south, on July 6 to pick up their children.

Hodroj, who Ms Moghnieh had been separated from for around a year, allegedly dropped the kids off at his sister's house before his wife had arrived.

He was arrested at the scene and was charged with murder.

Hodroj's case was mentioned at Sydney's Downing Centre on Thursday where it was adjourned until December 21.

The court heard that due to 'difficulty obtaining forensic material' relating to the case, it had to be delayed.

Hodroj's case has been delayed to December due to difficulties obtaining pathology results, a court heard on Thursday

Ms Moghnieh had gone to her estranged husband's home on the evening of July 6 to pick up her children as part of a custody arrangement.

Her cousin Karim previously told Daily Mail Australia that Ms Moghnieh had spoken to her sister just hours earlier and that nothing seemed off before her death.

'Her sister spoke to her the morning before the incident,' Karim said.

'They were laughing and having fun and everything was normal.

'She was not stressed or worried.'

Another cousin, Fadi, said Hodroj had taken their three young children to his sister's house next door before Ms Moghnieh arrived.

It is understood he wanted to talk to Ms Moghnieh about their divorce settlement, which was due to be finalised later in July.

Ms Moghnieh had only just celebrated getting citizenship and an Australian passport in the days before she was allegedly murdered and already had plans to take her kids to her birthplace in Lebanon to see family.

Hodroj will remain behind bars until his next court appearance in December.

Selfless Ms Moghnieh had worked for the NDIS in Bankstown, and has three children aged between two and six-years-old.
A swanky State Dinner at the White House seems to have created some headaches for Anthony Albanese in his blossoming relationship with Jodie Haydon.

'I'm not quite sure how I top this for date night with Jodie, at any time, in any way in the future,' the Prime Minister told those at the dinner.

'It's all downhill from here, my darling.'

Sharing the stage with President Joe Biden, Mr Albanese looked out to a 300-strong crowd including hit artists Vance Joy and The Kid Laroi, rugby league and racing heavyweight Peter V'landys and current Australian of the Year Taryn Brumfitt.

The guest list perhaps lacked true Australian star-power, the Washington Times describing the dinner as 'featuring few well-known names'.

Pictured left to right are Jodie Haydon, Anthony Albanese, Joe Biden and Jill Biden

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is pictured with his partner Jodie Haydon

Ms Haydon made a striking appearance at the event in a smokey-grey ballgown.

But many failed to notice the subtle, hidden meaning woven into her elegant dress, designed by renowned Australian designer Paolo Sebastian.

Subtle Australian motifs, showcasing the rich tapestry of the country's unique wildlife and flora were woven into the fabric.

That included intricately embroidered native birds, such as the iconic kookaburra, and delicate patterns inspired by Australian flowers.

The event was - by design - less celebratory than the other three State Dinners the Biden administration has hosted, with the Middle East conflict dominating the thoughts of those in attendance.

Democrat Senator Ron Wyden, whose parents fled the Nazis in the 1930s, paid tribute to the president for toning things down.

The more subdued affair saw previously-scheduled band The B-52s scrapped in place of military music, among other alterations.

'This is very much on our mind tonight and I just want to commend the President and First Lady because we would have loved to, under normal circumstances, had the music  that was a good call,' Senator Wyden told reporters.

Jodie Haydon (pictured far left) stunned at the state dinner hosted by Joe Biden and his wife Jill

Joe Biden (left) and Anthony Albanese (right) are pictured at the state dinner in Washington

Anthony Albanese is pictured holding the hand of his partner Jodie Haydon and Joe Biden is pictured holding the hand of his wife Jill

US Senator Ron Wyden (pictured with his wife Nancy) paid tribute to President Biden for toning things down

With securing legislative support for the AUKUS pact at the top of Mr Albanese's American to-do list, the presence of Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Australia Caucus Co-Chair Joe Courtney would have been appreciated.

Key Australian business figures including Chamber of Commerce head Andrew McKellar and Australian Industry Group chief Innes Willox were in attendance, joined by trade unions boss Michelle O'Neil.

The guests were served a three-course feast whipped up by chef Katie Button.

The meal began with a butternut squash soup before braised short ribs, with a hazelnut and chocolate mousse cake bringing things home.

US President Joe Biden and Anthony Albanese make a toast at the White House State Dinner

There were around 300 guests at the dinner (pictured), including US politicians and Australian celebrities

Aussie rapper The Kid Laroi wore a dapper black suit to the state dinner at the White House
New York Attorney General Letitia James hit back at former President Donald Trump after he stormed out of a Manhattan court and was later fined $10k in a day of legal fireworks.

In a dramatic outburst on Wednesday afternoon in New York State Supreme Court, the former President threw his arms up in the air before getting up and leaving.

It came after fixer-turned-foe Michael Cohen testified that Trump did not direct him to inflate the value of his properties.

Trump left the courtroom and told waiting reporters: 'The witness just admitted that we won the trial and the judge should end this trial immediately. Thank you.'

After the explosive day in court, Attorney General Letitia James hit back at Trump, saying that the notion that Cohen undermined the state's case was not true.

After the explosive day in court, Attorney General Letitia James hit back at Trump, saying that the notion that Cohen undermined the state's case was not true

Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, U.S., October 25, 2023

Speaking outside the court, she said: 'This has been a four year investigation, and there is mountains of evidence which basically corroborate the testimony of a number of witnesses.

'It's also important to know that Michael Cohen is not the main witness. His evidence has been corroborated by the mountains of evidence, enough evidence to fill the courtroom.

'And so I look forward again to this trial continuing. And I look always, and I have, of course, I always look forward to justice. Thank you very much.

'There is sufficient evidence to prove that, in fact, Mr. Trump, the Trump Organization and the other defendants committed widespread fraud.'

The admission by Cohen - which contradicts his earlier testimony - prompted defense attorney Clifford Robert to ask for a directed verdict, arguing that his statement was grounds for dismissal.

Judge Arthur Engoron said it was 'absolutely denied' and that the case had 'evidence all over the place.' He also said he did not consider Cohen a 'key witness'.

'There's enough evidence in this case to fill this courtroom,' the judge said.

Michael Cohen, pictured here, testified that Trump did not direct him to inflate the value of his properties

Donald Trump walked out of the courtroom Wednesday afternoon moments after one of his lawyers finished questioning fixer-turned-foe Michael Cohen

The departure by Trump came after he had been fined for a second time for violating a gag order.

Judge Engoron slapped the former President with a fine to the tune of $10,000 after Engoron determined comments he made to reporters during a break in the trial violated a partial gag order issued a few weeks ago.

Judge Engoron called Trump to the stand after the lunch recess on Wednesday to explain remarks.

Speaking outside the courtroom earlier that morning, Trump had told reporters: 'This judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside of him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is,' - an apparent reference to his clerk Allison Greenfield.

Trump slowly got up from his seat at a bench between his attorneys and sat in the witness box, adjusting himself before addressing his comments.

Repeating his lawyer's earlier claims, Trump told the judge he had been referring to his former fixer who was testifying, Michael Cohen - not Greenfield.

The remark about partisans was aimed at 'you and Cohen', he told the judge, who ultimately found his testimony 'not credible.'

'The idea that that statement would refer to the witness, that doesn't make sense to me,' Engoron said, warning: 'Don't do it again or it will be worse.'

Judge Engoron had paused proceedings just before the lunch break to scold Trump for his remarks, calling it a 'blatant, dangerous disobeyal' of his court order.

Judge Arthur Engoron briefly paused the proceedings just before the court broke for lunch Wednesday to scold Trump for publicly speaking out against him and his clerk Allison Greenfield (left)

Trump was called to the stand to address remarks he made about Judge Engoron and his court staff earlier outside of the courtroom

Five days earlier, Trump had been fined $5,000 after Engoron learned that an offending social media post from early October had lingered on Trump's campaign website for weeks after being taken down - on the judge's orders - from Trump's Truth Social media platform.

Addressing the issue again on Wednesday, Judge Engoron said he imposed the order because 'I don't want anybody killed.'

Cohen, who cut ties with Trump five years ago, returned to the stand on Wednesday to undergo further cross-examination by defense lawyers who have sought to undermine his credibility by painting him as a convicted felon and serial liar.

Taking the floor on Tuesday afternoon, attorney Alina Habba attacked Cohen's credibility by referencing comments made by prosecutors during his 2018 sentencing on eight criminal charges, which included five counts of tax evasion.

Habba cited statements saying Cohen was 'motivated by personal greed' and had 'repeatedly used his power and influence for deceptive ends'.

The sentencing judge at the time also noted that Cohen's crimes showed a 'pattern of deception that permeated his professional life' and declared that he had 'abused his relationship to a powerful individual', referring to Trump.

Michael Cohen walks outside New York State Supreme Court after the trial adjourned for the day

With Trump sitting with his defense team, his lawyer Alina Habba confronted his former fixer Michael Cohen with comments he had made praising Trump, before turning on him when Cohen's legal problems started in 2018

In response, Cohen admitted that when he pleaded guilty to the five tax crimes he did not tell the truth because he did not think they were offenses.

Attorney General James found that Trump and his company deceived banks, insurers and others by massively overvaluing his assets and exaggerating his net worth on paperwork used in making deals and securing financing.

Prosecutors claim he has jacked up his net worth by between $812 million and $2.2 billion every year over a decade.

James argues Trump inflated his valuations when seeking lending. Trump's lawyers are asking a judge to toss the suit, calling it a 'crusade' over long-ago loans that have been repaid.

She said he boosted valuations by up to $2 billion, inflating the value of signature assets including the Mar-a-Lago club where he now resides and his Manhattan penthouse apartment at Trump Tower.

Trump motions as he returns to the courtroom after a break in his civil business fraud trial at New York Supreme Court. He was fined $10,000 for violating the judge's gag order for a second time

James is seeking $250 million in penalties and a ban on Trump doing business in New York, his home state. The trial could last into December, Engoron has said.

Trump has long accused James and other prosecutors in New York of coming after him, in what he described as a 'witch hunt'.

On Truth Social on Wednesday, Trump also said: 'The New York State Attorney Generals case against me is DEAD, but the Radical Left Judge REFUSES to end it.

'He just can't let it go. Their 'star' witness lied like a dog on the stand today, and then admitted that I did NOTHING WRONG!

'A total SleazeBag. Letitia James should focus on Violent Crime, which is out of control.

'So unfair. I don't even get a Jury Trial. A blight on the New York State Judicial System.

'Businesses are watching all over the world, and never coming in, only moving out. The Governor should get involved. Election Interference by my Political Opponent!'
One of the two Rottweilers that savagely mauled its owner and left her fighting for life in hospital has been euthanised.

Nikita Piil, 31, was left with severe injuries to her arms and legs after being mauled by her pets at her home in Success, south Perth, on September 16.

Police were forced to shoot Ms Piil's oldest Rottweiler, seven-year-old Bronx, during the attack after attempts to taser and distract the dog failed.

Her surviving pup, Harlem, was taken to the City of Cockburn's animal management centre with Ms Piil confirming last week she had decided to euthanise it.

Cockburns head of community safety and ranger services Michael Emery confirmed on Thursday the dog had been put down.

Nikita Piil (above) has made the tough decision to euthanise her surviving Rottweiler after her pet dogs attacked her in September

Ms Piil's oldest dog, Bronx, was shot by police during the attack while her youngest, Harlem, was taken to the local animal management centre and classified a 'dangerous dog' (pictured, both Ms Piil's Rottweilers)

'The procedure was completed on Thursday morning by a qualified veterinarian as humanely as possible for the dog,' he said.

The council conducted a month-long investigation following the attack and gave Ms Piil an ultimatum: subject Harlem to strict security measures or euthanise him.

READ MORE: Perth dog owner attacked by her pet Rottweilers faces heartbreaking decision Advertisement

Mr Emery said Ms Piil made the tough decision last week to surrender Harlem to council.

'On Friday afternoon the owner officially relinquished their ownership of the dog to the City of Cockburn,' he told The West.

The measures for Ms Piil to keep Harlem as a 'dangerous dog' included keeping him 'securely enclosed' in an area not easily accessible to children under the age of seven, being muzzled and installing warning signs around her home.

Ms Piil, who is understood to still be in hospital, is unlikely to face charges over the incident as a member of the public was not attacked.

The council wished her a speedy recovery from injuries to her arm, leg and head.

Mr Piil's family revealed in a GoFundMe post she had 'gotten caught in a crossfire' while trying to calm down her dogs during a neighbourhood incident.

Ms Piil (above) nearly died several times after suffering severe injuries and infections to her arm, head and leg in the Septmeber attack

'The rehabilitation journey ahead will be painful, long and costly,' they said.

'We nearly lost our precious girl a couple of times  but as you all know, Nikita is our little fighter.'

The City of Cockburn had previously received complaints from neighbours over the Rottweilers' excessive barking, however there were no reported incidents of attacks prior to September 16.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Ms Piil's family for comment.
Leading commentators have weighed in on growing speculation Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney could become Australia's next Governor-General.

Peta Credlin and Ben Fordham have questioned whether she is being considered for a new role in an attempt to 'move her on' from her high-pressure job.

In response to a Daily Mail Australia article about the rumours, Sky News pundit Credlin said on Thursday: 'Believe me, this story has legs.'

'She refuses to rule out being sounded out for the appointment, the timing is about right,' she added.

The Governor-General role, currently held by David Hurley, is due to become vacant in July 2024, and it's understood Prime Minister Anthony Albanese must make his recommendations for Mr Hurley's replacement by year's end.

Fordham gave listeners his opinion on his breakfast show this morning, noting Mr Albanese may be 'looking for someone as Indigenous Affairs minister with a bit more grunt than Linda Burney'.

Leading commentators have weighed in on growing speculation Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney (pictured) could become Australia's next Governor-General

Daily Mail Australia understands Assistant Minister Malarndirri McCarthy has already been flagged as an ideal replacement for the role if Ms Burney were to move on.

'When you consider her lacklustre performance during the Voice referendum campaign, she was just missing in action,' he said.

'She wasn't doing media interviews apart from the odd one on the ABC and was being lapped constantly by Jacinta Nampijinpa Price.

'And when Jacinta said, "Let's have a debate - you're the minister, I'm the shadow minister," Linda didn't want a bar of it.

'So maybe they're looking for something else for Linda to do.'

Appointing the senior Labor minister to the role would make Ms Burney, 66, the first ever Aboriginal Australian to become the head of state.

When approached by Daily Mail Australia about the speculation, she didn't deny she had been at least sounded out to replace the outgoing Governor-General.

'The Minister declines to comment,' a spokesman from her office said.

In response to a Daily Mail Australia article about the rumours, Sky News pundit Peta Credlin (pictured) said on Thursday: 'Believe me, this story has legs'

Anthony Albanese (left) and Linda Burney (right) are close allies and friends. Ms Burney largely credits the PM for encouraging her to run for federal politics

Mr Albanese and Ms Burney are close allies and friends, and their inner-Sydney electorates of Grayndler and Barton sit next to each other.

The Indigenous Australians minister, who previously held the seat of Canterbury in the NSW parliament, largely credits the PM for encouraging her to run for federal politics.

One well-placed source told Daily Mail Australia that Ms Burney's move to Governor-general had been 'floated for a while' and was 'openly discussed' by some in the failed 'Yes' campaign.

At its peak, support for the Voice to parliament was at about 65 per cent, but the Yes23 campaign failed to maintain this momentum and in just a few months approval had plummeted.

Another Canberra source said Ms Burney's move to the Governor-General would allow the promotion of Senator McCarthy after her strong performance when she was deployed toward the end of the referendum campaign to promote the Yes side.

She received widespread praise for the way in which she handled heated exchanges and tough questions about the proposal, which was already polling badly.

In the role, she would serve as King Charles' representative in Australia, performing constitutional and ceremonial duties as Australia's head of state

There have been growing calls for the prime minister to recommend a First Nations person for the role as a step forward toward reconciliation.

The role involves serving as King Charles' representative in Australia and performing constitutional and ceremonial duties as Australia's head of state.

The Governor-General is commander-in-chief of the defence force, is responsible for appointing ministers and swearing in significant positions. The Governor-General also has the power to dismiss a prime minister if they have lost the support of the party or break the law.

These reserve powers are rarely used.

Political analyst Peter van Onselen agreed the appointment of an Aboriginal Australian to the role would help reconciliation, and he believed most Australians would 'welcome the move'.

'I'm just not sure that person should be Linda Burney,' he said, after criticism of her ability to handle tough questioning about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament and refusing to debate her Coalition opponent, Jacinta Nampijinpa Price.

'Her poor advocacy was a key reason the Yes case lost. She's obviously partisan too. But I can see why appointing her to the role would suit Albo.'

Appointing the senior Labor minister to the role would make Ms Burney, 66, the first ever Aboriginal Australian to become the head of state

READ MORE: Voice recriminations begin Advertisement

Mr van Onselen described Ms Burney as 'a parliamentary performer [who] deserves replacing in her ministerial role'.

'But dumping her would be a terrible look,' he said. 'Imagine doing that to an Indigenous affairs minister straight after the referendum's defeat.'

Mr van Onselen said either Labor Senator Pat Dodson or former Liberal Ken Wyatt would be better options for the role.

Mr Dodson is often referred to as 'the father of reconciliation' while Mr Wyatt was Australia's first Indigenous lower house MP and minister.

However, Mr Dodson is receiving treatment for cancer in Western Australia.

'Ken Wyatt would be a show of bipartisanship. He was a Yes advocate who was Australia's first Indigenous lower house MP as well as the first Indigenous affairs minister.'

Former Libera senator Eric Abetz, who now serves as the campaign chair at the Australian Monarchist League, told Daily Mail Australia Ms Burney's role in the Voice campaign should exclude her from discussions about the future Governor-General.

'The position of Governor-General is that of protector of the Australian Constitution and Australia's parliamentary system beside being Australia's Head of State,' he said.

Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians Malarndirri McCarthy (left) has been touted as a potential replacement for Minister Burney's current role, while others suggest Senator Pat Dodson (right) would be the ideal candidate for Governor-General

'The Governor-General cannot bring with them their pet projects or biases from their previous life.

'They need to leave their "causes" behind them and devote themselves to a neutrality so all Australians can have confidence in their independence should they be called upon to make constitutional or parliamentary adjudications.

'In the current climate it would be inappropriate to appoint one of the protagonists in the recent referendum campaign.'

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has never shied away from his desire for Australia to separate from the monarchy and become a republic.

He flagged his intentions by appointing Matt Thistlethwaite as assistant minister for the republic after his election in 2022.

He swore allegiance to King Charles at his coronation in May and despite being a 'life-long republican', insisted he has 'a great deal of respect' for the King.

And he assured members of the public both in Australia and abroad a referendum on whether Australia should become a republic is out of the question for the near future.

'What I don't want to do is to be a prime minister who presides over just constitutional debates,' he said at the time.
A high-profile man accused of raping a woman in Queensland can now be identified as Bruce Lehrmann.

Mr Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape in January this year following an alleged incident at a property in Toowoomba, west of Brisbane, in October 2021.

Two months earlier, in August 2021, he was also charged with rape following allegations he sexually assaulted Brittany Higgins in Parliament House two years prior.

He pleaded not guilty in the ACT Supreme Court and maintains he had no sexual interaction with Ms Higgins.

He could not be named or pictured in January, when he was charged over the alleged Toowoomba incident, because laws in Queensland banned the media from publicly identifying alleged sex offenders unless the matter was committed to trial.

Those laws were overturned last month, but Mr Lehrmann's lawyers applied for a non-publication order.

Bruce Lehrmann (pictured) is pictured in October last year

In August 2021, Bruce Lehrmann was charged with rape following allegations that he sexually assaulted Brittany Higgins (pictured, centre, outside court). He denied the allegations

On October 13, Toowoomba magistrate Clare Kelly was about to lift the suppression order, but Mr Lehrmann's lawyers intervened and said they would challenge the decision with a judicial review.

On Thursday, Supreme Court judge Peter Applegarth scrapped the order - despite Mr Lehrmann's barrister Andrew Hoare arguing in court that his client was at increased risk of 'catastrophic' self-harm, including suicide, if identified.

Justice Applegarth said a high risk of self-harm did not mean a non-publication order was necessary.

'What can one make of the state of the defendant's psychology at the moment, and what protective measures are available to him to reduce that identified risk?' the judge said.

'I dare say many people who are facing the criminal justice system are having suicidal ideations  the existence of suicidal ideations is not necessarily sufficient to establish the level of unacceptable risk (to justify) a non-publication order.'

He questioned whether a non-publication would impact other people's rights - including the media and members of the public.

'Absent this order, someone can come into the public gallery of the Toowoomba Magistrates Court, and hear what goes on and report it when they go home to someone when they're having dinner,' Justice Applegarth said.

Bruce Lehrmann (pictured) not guilty in the ACT Supreme Court and maintains that he had no sexual interaction with Ms Higgins

'(And) a large media entity, small media entity, a reporter from the Toowoomba Chronicle has the right to report matters, including identifying matters (of) the defendant.'

He said that if an order was made, media organisations would lose that right.

The alleged victim claimed she met Mr Lehrmann on a night out that began when she joined friends at the Powerhouse music venue in Toowoomba.

After drinking with friends, she then went to a strip club called The Vault, where she consumed more alcohol and met Mr Lehrmann.

Mr Lehrmann allegedly introduced himself as 'Bryce'.

Later, police allege the woman took a taxi with Mr Lehrmann to his friend's house.

READ MORE: High-profile Australian charged with rape is accused of not wearing a condom Advertisement

They had sex once that night and twice in the morning, but the woman alleges the last two times were not consensual because he allegedly wasn't wearing a condom.

Failing to wear a condom without a partner's permission is considered sexual assault under Queensland law.

Police will allege the woman told Mr Lehrmann she needed a morning-after pill and they drove to a chemist in a farm ute.

Afterwards, she allegedly asked Mr Lehrmann to take her home and he stopped at McDonald's on the way.

Weeks later, the woman was allegedly speaking to a friends mother about the Higgins case when she searched for details on her phone and saw Mr Lehrmann's photo - and recognised him as the same person who allegedly had sex with her.

The woman reported the matter to police the next day before making a formal statement. Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape on January 10. He denies the allegations.

It will be alleged in court that the pair spoke on Snapchat for a few days after the encounter, but soon lost contact.

Police will allege they have CCTV footage from the club showing the pair leaving together, and evidence that the man booked a taxi.
Hamas has declared it will turn Palestinian tragedy into 'joy' should the Israeli Defence Forces launch a ground assault of Gaza in a sinister message delivered today.

Deputy Hamas chief Saleh al-Arouri said that 'despite the enemy's crimes... the resistance is well', adding that Hamas and other Islamist groups 'will turn your tragedies into joy, in the event of a ground invasion' in a statement to Palestinians, suggesting Hamas fighters would inflict huge losses on the IDF.

Al-Arouri declared Hamas was preparing for war, telling Hezbollah-controlled al-Manar TV that 'the battles have not begun yet' ahead of the much-anticipated IDF assault.

He also confirmed that Hamas and the leaders of Hezbollah have been in close contact over preparations for the impending Israeli invasion.

'Our battle is also Hezbollah's battle,' he said. 'If the enemy enters by land, it will be an unprecedented defeat [for Israel].'

Al-Arouri's warning came as Israeli tanks rolled into northern Gaza overnight in the biggest incursion of the war so far to carry out 'targeted raids' on 'terrorist cells' ahead of a full-scale ground invasion.

The military said ground forces led by the Givati infantry brigade and the 162nd Armored Division attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave in the early hours of Thursday before withdrawing, while warplanes struck more than 250 targets across the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours.

IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari said the operation lasted a few hours and that no Israeli casualties were sustained.

The UN said the number of Israeli strikes meant that 'nowhere in Gaza is safe'.

Israel's battle-hardened prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu last night warned Hamas terrorists in a televised statement that they were 'doomed' as he vowed to push ahead with a ground invasion.

'We are raining hellfire on Hamas. We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning. Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many,' Netanyahu said.

Meanwhile, in a retort to al-Arouri's message, former Israeli defence minister and member of Israel's war carbinet Benny Gantz said that any possible ground offensive would be only 'one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years'.

'The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force. We will not be the ones at risk of being wiped out. That will be the fate of those who seek to do us ill,' he said.

A man holds his three-year-old son who died after the Israeli airstrikes that continue in Gaza City on October 26, 2023

A Palestinian man carries a child casualty at the site of Israeli strikes on houses

Lebanon's Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah (R) meets Jihad Secretary General Ziyad al-Nakhalah (2-L) and deputy leader of Hamas, Sheikh Saleh al-Arouri (1-L) at an unidentified location in this handout image released on October 25, 2023

Israeli armoured vehicles take part in an operation, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, at a location given as the northern Gaza Strip in this image taken from a handout video released October 26, 2023

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in Israeli air raids on October 26, 2023

Mourners carry the bodies of Palestinians killed in the Israeli airstrikes after they were moved from the morgue of Nasser Hospital to be buried at a cemetery in Khan Yunis, Gaza on October 26, 2023

Now Israeli tanks and hundreds of thousands of troops are massing on the border with Gaza awaiting orders.

International pressure is growing to delay any invasion of Gaza, not least because of hostages taken by Hamas. More than half the estimated 220 have foreign passports from 25 different countries, the Israeli government said.

Meanwhile, international observers are imploring the Israeli government to allow further resources into the besieged territory, with more than a million Palestinians displaced from their homes and the flow of aid reduced to a trickle by the blockade.

Mr Netanyahu said the battle against the Hamas murderers who massacred around 1,500 Israeli civilians on October 7 was necessary to 'save our country' and the airstrikes on Gaza were only 'the beginning'.

But questions remain over the exact time-frame for the expected invasion after it was reported that the country was delaying the ground attack to allow the US to rush missile defences to the region.

In a televised address yesterday evening, Mr Netanyahu said: 'We have set over this war two main goals: to do away with Hamas by destroying its military and governmental capabilities, and to do everything within our power to return our hostages back home.

An Israeli Merkava tank is deploy with other armoured vehicles along the border with Gaza on October 24, 2023

Israeli air strikes bombarding Gaza on October 25, 2023

Palestinians search for casualties at the site of Israeli strikes on houses, as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, October 26, 2023

Palestinians search for casualties at the site of Israeli strikes on houses

Smoke rises from nearby Israeli strikes, seen from a camp sheltering displaced Palestinians

'All Hamas militants are doomed. Above the earth, underground, within Gaza and outside of Gaza.'

There are thought to be around 222 hostages, aged from nine months to 85, being held by Hamas in Gaza.

Mr Netanyahu acknowledged that there would need to be 'soul-searching' on how the terrorist group was able to carry out the murderous attack of October 7 without the knowledge of the country's intelligence services.

But he said his role now was to lead Israel to 'all-out victory' over its enemies. He added: 'When we enter Gaza, later on in our fighting, we are going to take the full prize from those terrorists who carried out those atrocities of Hamas.'

Mr Netanyahu said the country's special war cabinet had taken the final decision on when forces would go into the blockaded Palestinian enclave. He said he 'will not tell' how and when the invasion would happen, nor how extensive it would be.

But it had been suggested last night that the planned assault was on hold at the request of the White House.

The Pentagon is scrambling to deploy nearly a dozen air-defence systems to protect US troops serving in the Middle East, including in Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria.

US officials are said to be concerned that terrorist groups across the region would target American troops once the incursion begins, the Wall Street Journal reported.

In Iraq and Syria, there have been at least 13 drone and missile attacks since October 18, which have wounded some two-dozen US personnel. President Joe Biden denied the reports however, telling reporters: 'It's their decision but I did not demand it.'

Israel is also weighing up the need to supply humanitarian aid to civilians inside Gaza, as well as the diplomatic efforts to free more hostages from the clutches of Hamas. A full-scale ground assault threatens to further stoke geopolitical tensions in the region.

On Tuesday, a news agency with links to Iran's Revolutionary Guards said it is 'likely' the Tehran-backed Hezbollah group in Lebanon would become involved in the war with Israel.

During a trip to Cairo yesterday, French president Emmanuel Macron said that a 'massive' ground incursion into Gaza would be a mistake, instead suggesting that the international coalition formed to fight terror group Isis should be resurrected to eradicate Hamas.

More deadly attacks on Gaza on October 25, 2023

Satellite view shows the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza on October 10

Satellite view shows damaged areas in the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, northern Gaza Strip, October 21, 2023

Satellite view shows how different Gaza looked on May 1, 2023

The damaged areas in the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, northern Gaza Strip, October 21, 2023

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a joint press conference with French president Emmanuel Macron in Jerusalem, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023

Mr Biden warned 'there's no going back to the status quo as it stood on October 6' between Israelis and Palestinians.

Speaking alongside Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese, Mr Biden said he would 'guarantee' Israel had 'what it needs to defend itself against these terrorists'.

Last night Mr Netanyahu vowed to gain the support of the international community for the upcoming invasion. He said: 'We are mobilising the support of world leaders to continue this campaign and many of them understand today what we keep repeating since 2014: Hamas is Isis and Isis is Hamas.

'I am telling them that our war against Hamas is also their war against Hamas... it is a struggle between the axis of evil of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran and that of progress and freedom.'

Eight Syrian soldiers were killed by Israeli air strikes on southwest Syria yesterday, according to the Syrian state news agency Sana. Israel's military said its jets had struck Syrian army infrastructure and mortar launchers in what it described as a response to rocket launches from Syria toward Israel.

Now, analysts are considering how a ground invasion of Gaza might play out.

Unlike the last Israeli ground invasion of Gaza in 2014, in which some 2,300 Palestinians were killed, this time Hamas has captured more than 200 Israeli soldiers and civilians, who are now almost certainly dispersed throughout an intricate network of tunnels and hiding spots built in the past decade by the militant force.

Hamas has already declared its intention to execute civilian captives one by one if Israel continues its policy of devastating airstrikes on military and civilian targets in the densely populated Gaza Strip.

Besides, Hamas has consolidated its power since the 2014 incursion and its military wing is thought to be tens of thousands strong - and could be supported by Hezbollah - with access to a serious arsenal of weapons provided over many years by Iran.

This means Israel would need to deploy hundreds of thousands of troops if it is to launch a full-scale invasion to wipe out Hamas - and the operation would likely share stark similarities with the bitter urban warfare seen in Mosul and other areas of Iraq.

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel

Israel continues to deploy soldiers, tanks and armored vehicles near the Gaza border in Sderot, Israel on October 24, 2023

A picture taken from the southern Israeli city of Sderot on October 26, 2023 shows black smoke billowing over the northern Gaza Strip

A picture taken from the southern Israeli city of Sderot on October 26, 2023 shows flares fired by the Israeli army over the northern Gaza Strip

'At present, it seems likely that Israel is seeking the decisive defeat of Hamas and its military wing al-Qassam. That may result in very protracted and violent fighting,' defence analyst Sam Cranny-Evans said.

'We are already seeing the first phase of any full-scale ground invasion. Israeli airstrikes are most likely aimed at al-Qassam's leadership, ammunition stockpiles and locations used to house and hide personnel.

'In this way, the IDF is likely seeking to degrade their ability to put up a coordinated resistance once troops move in on the ground.

He continued: 'The next phase may include movements to encircle the cities in Gaza and establish greater control over the whole area with troops and drones.

'All of this will be accompanied by a build-up of supplies, munitions, medical facilities, food etc. Urban warfare consumes a lot of ammunition and leads to a lot of casualties. So, there will be efforts underway to ensure appropriate stocks in appropriate locations.

I think we should also expect to see the IDF taking measures against small drones with electronic warfare, as well as gathering signals intelligence on al-Qassam to improve its targeting capabilities.'

However, Hamas has already shown its willingness to engage in particularly brutal warfare, and is also more technologically advanced than previously thought, having demonstrated an ability to deploy aerial munitions via drone and makeshift anti-aircraft munitions.

This means Israeli forces would be in for a particularly bloody fight, Mr Cranny-Evans said, likening the potential conflict to scenes from the most bitter urban fighting amid the Iraq war.

'The tactics employed by the IDF will depend in part on the tactics used by al-Qassam.

'It is likely that drones will be used to drop bombs on Israeli forces, and that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) will be deployed to slow them down. The IDF has experienced these technologies, but they do have the ability to inflict serious casualties.

'So, if al-Qassam has a lot of fighters who are determined to hold their ground, the Israeli forces may be faced with several Mosul-type operations requiring each urban area to be encircled and gradually cleared street-by-street.

'The predominant approach will be to use combined arms tactics where the efforts of armoured formations are coordinated with air power, artillery, and electronic warfare  as well as information warfare  to defeat al-Qassam.'

Mr Cranny-Evans added that Israeli forces could attempt a multi-pronged assault, deploying troops amphibiously into Gaza from the Mediterranean sea, but cautioned that such units would only be lightly armoured and supplied, meaning they'd need to be bolstered by other units on the ground or via air support.

'There is a possibility for an amphibious assault, but it would have to be coordinated with the main thrust of operations and serve a useful purpose,' he concluded.

'The forces used for amphibious operations are inherently light  no or little armour available. So, the risk to them when fighting other light infantry is high relative to an armoured formation. Nevertheless, if the IDF feels there are targets worth seizing or engaging on the coast, that are within the capabilities of light and special infantry, it is reasonable to presume that they might try.'

Israel also has advanced technology at its disposal to help its forces fight Hamas.

'The IDF has a developed and capable communications and battle management infrastructure, which will really be key to this operation. It enables commanders to keep tabs on where their units are and understand what enemy forces they have encountered. It also makes communication between units easier, which is a major challenge in urban settings,' Mr Cranny-Evans said.

'The IDF also has other systems like the Fireweaver fire control system, which coordinates sensors and shooters through a central battle management system and uses AI to suggest the best-placed shooter to the commander.

'They have relatively advanced multi-domain capabilities and are well-versed in coordinating air strikes with ground operations.'
Cornell University was defaced with antisemitic graffiti reading 'f**k Israel' just days after a professor, who had described a Hamas attack as 'exhilarating' and 'energizing,' took a leave of absence.

Spray-painted messages such as 'Zionism equals Racism' and 'Israel is Fascist' began appearing on the sidewalks of Cornell University's upstate New York campus on Wednesday morning.

The vandalism occurred amid a heated campus controversy surrounding the Israel-Palestine dispute, following Professor Russell Rickford's leave of absence after his comments on Hamas' brutal attack.

The graffiti, bearing messages like 'Israel is Fascist,' 'Zionism equals Racism,' 'Free Palestine,' and 'F**k Israel,' were first noticed just before 9am but have since been cleaned up by university staff.

It's unclear who painted the appalling messages in red and white on Campus Road which is known to have a lot of foot and vehicle traffic through the day.

Spray-painted messages such as 'Zionism equals Racism' and 'Israel is Fascist' began appearing on the sidewalks of Cornell University's upstate New York campus on Wednesday

The graffiti, bearing messages like 'Israel is Fascist,' 'Zionism equals Racism,' 'Free Palestine ,' and 'F**k Israel,' was first noticed sometime before 9 am on Wednesday

The anti-Semitic messages in red and white, cleaned by university staff now, were painted in reportedly one of the busiest areas of the campus for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic

A Cornell professor with a history of radical left-wing views called the Hamas terror attacks in Israel 'exhilarating' and 'energizing' at a pro-Palestine rally on October 15. He apologized on October 18, but on October 20 announced he was taking a leave of absence

The aggressive graffiti comes after Rickford told an October 15 rally at Ithaca Commons, the downtown shopping district in the upstate New York city, that he was thrilled by Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, in which 1,400 Israelis were killed.

His words were met by anger, and Rickford attempted to explain - and doubled down on his outrageous views, before taking a leave of absence.

He said he condemned the killing of any civilians, but said he was angered by 'the injustice and the hypocrisy of Western support in celebration of Israeli war crimes, and the equation of any form of Palestinian resistance with terrorism.'

Rickford later apologized, saying on October 18 that he was sorry 'for the horrible choice of words that I used', and calling his language 'reprehensible'.

It emerged later Rickford had pulled out of teaching his history class for the rest of the semester, and the Cornell Review confirmed that he has gone on leave.

Cornell University's spokesperson said: 'Professor Russell Rickford has requested and received approval to take a leave of absence from the university.'

The Cornell history department referred to the university's statement condemning the professor when asked for comment about Rickfords status.

Tamika Nunley, an associate professor of history, will fill in for him.

'Professor Rickford will be taking a leave of absence and I will assume teaching responsibilities for this course for the remainder of the semester,' she wrote on October 20, in an email obtained by The Cornell Review.

Rickford is an associate professor of history and, according to his Twitter bio, a 'Historian of the Black radical tradition'

Claudia Tenney, a Republican congresswoman whose district borders that of Cornell, said Rickford's leave of absence was insufficient, and he needed to resign.

'Since I sent a letter to Cornell President Martha Pollack demanding that Professor Russell Rickford resign for his anti-Semitic comments, he has taken a leave of absence,' she wrote on X.

'Cornell must take this a step further and fire him for his pro-Hamas comments!'

But others have rallied to Rickford's support.

Five members of the Cornell University chapter of the AAUP - American Association of University Professors - wrote a letter to The Cornell Daily Sun defending him.

'Professor Rickford's extramural speech at the Oct. 15 rally falls squarely within the protections of academic freedom to comment on political matters,' they wrote.

'That his speech offended or shocked does not lessen its protection, as academic freedom is most needed for speech that others find offensive.'

They pointed out that Rickford's words were spoken off campus, and he apologized.

On October 18, Rickford sent a letter to The Cornell Daily Sun and said he was deeply sorry for his words.

'I apologize for the horrible choice of words that I used in a portion of a speech that was intended to stress grassroots African American, Jewish and Palestinian traditions of resistance to oppression,' Rickford noted.

'I recognize that some of the language I used was reprehensible and did not reflect my values.'

He apologized for 'the pain that my reckless remarks have caused my family, my students, my colleagues and many others in this time of suffering.'

Rickford concluded: 'I... unequivocally oppose and denounce racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, militarism, fundamentalism and all systems that dehumanize, divide and oppress people.'

The five academics concluded: 'Academic freedom applies regardless of viewpoint. Faculty from across the political spectrum can express strong views in their teaching, research, extramural speech, and university governance activities.

'The University administration must fully carry out its obligation to respect and protect faculty academic freedom at all times, and perhaps especially when faculty face backlash and threats.'

Tamika Nunley, an associate professor of history, will fill in for Rickford during his absence

Rickford is known for his pro-Palestine activism, and is described by the local newspaper as 'no stranger to controversial remarks'.

He told the Ithaca Commons rally: 'Hamas has challenged the monopoly of violence.

'And in those first few hours, even as horrific acts were being carried out, many of which we would not learn about until later, there are many Gazans of good will, many Palestinians of conscience, who abhor violence, as do you, as do I. Who abhor the targeting of civilians, as do you, as do I.

'Who were able to breathe, they were able to breathe for the first time in years.

'It was exhilarating. It was energizing. And if they weren't exhilarated by this challenge to the monopoly of violence, by this shifting of the balance of power, then they would not be human. I was exhilarated.'

He added: 'What has Hamas done? Hamas has shifted the balance of power. Hamas has punctured the illusion of invincibility. That's what they have done. You don't have to be a Hamas supporter to recognize that.

'Hamas has changed the terms of the debate. Israeli officials are right  nothing will be the same again.'

An aerial view shows the bodies of victims of the Hamas attack on the Kfar Aza kibbutz

Hamas left a trail of devastation at a series of kibbutzes near the border with Gaza, including children's beds soaked in blood

Palestinians wave their national flag and celebrate by a destroyed Israeli tank at the Gaza Strip fence on October 7

University president Martha Pollack, asked about his comments the next day, said she was 'sickened by statements glorifying the evilness of Hamas terrorism.'

She added: 'Any members of our community who have made such statements do not speak for Cornell; in fact, they speak in direct opposition to all we stand for at Cornell.

'There is no justification for or moral equivalent to these violent and abhorrent acts.'

The following day, October 17, a second statement was sent out, condemning Rickford by name.

'We learned yesterday of comments that Professor Russell Rickford made over the weekend at an off-campus rally where he described the Hamas terrorist attacks as 'exhilarating',' wrote Pollack and the chair of the board of trustees, Kraig H. Kayser.

'This is a reprehensible comment that demonstrates no regard whatsoever for humanity.'

Pollack and Kayser added: 'The university is taking this incident seriously and is currently reviewing it consistent with our procedures.'

Universities and campuses across the country have become hotbeds of anger following the October 7 attack.
He wants to spend remainder of sentence at home

Australia's youngest self-confessed terrorist has penned a letter to a court asking if he can spend the remainder of his sentence at home with family.

The 16-year-old oy asked Adelaide's District Court for leniency on Thursday for the affiliations he had made when he was only 14.

Since pleading guilty to seven terrorism charges, he has denounced Islamic State and blamed the time he spent online for the poor decisions he had made.

In the letter the boy asked the court if he could serve the remainder of his sentence in home detention rather than in a prison.

Prosecutors strongly opposed the appeal, claiming that he was the architect of an online extremist group and once altered ISIS propaganda to bare his own insignia.

Australia's youngest self-confessed terrorist, 16, penned a letter to Adelaide's District Court asking a judge if he could spend the remainder of his sentence on home detention

In documents obtained by the Advertiser, the boy admitted to the court that he was 'stupid in youth' which led to him fall 'deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole'.

READ MORE: Australia's first convicted terrorist released on parole Faheem Lodhi was granted the release recently by Federal authorities after serving a 20-year sentence and is now back in the community, News Corp reported. Advertisement

'I honestly do not support the terrorist group IS  I know I was spreading their propaganda, and that was a mistake,' he said.

'Although I do not think I was ever radicalised, I see now I was in danger of it and I'm confident I will not fall into the same trap again.

'I never carried out or did anything physical an extremist person would do  the comments I made about attacking an Anzac Day service were taken out of context.

'Looking back, I realise I could have done better things with my time  I would like to go home and be with my family.'

Upon his arrest the boy admitted to sharing bomb-making instructions, spreading IS propaganda and swearing an oath of loyalty to the group.

He had previously told the court that his Autism Spectrum Disorder was to blame for his offences, but that was rejected by Judge Muscat.

Since his arrest he has been found with a homemade IS flag, a book about the September 11 terrorist attacks, and weapons which he had used.

He had wielded a knife and a sharpened toothbrush in acts of violence.

The 16-year-old had been caught with a homemade IS flag (pictured graffitied on a wall) since his arrest, as well as a book about the September 11 terrorist attacks and two weapons

The boy's court representative, Chris Weir, said that his client could not be treated the same as other terrorism offenders.

'This is not a young man who was motivated by extremism from his community or from a very strict or strong faith,' he said.

'This is a young man who entered this horrible world through his laptop, went down that rabbit hole and was unable to get out of it.

'He was stupid in his youth and poor in his judgment  there may be a degree of radicalisation, but what does that really mean when he is young, naive and autistic?'

Judge Muscat again dismissed the appeals and clarified that the boy had 'done enough' to justify his sentence.

'A laptop is a very powerful instrument,' Judge Muscat said.

Prosecutor James Slocombe said the boy had acted deliberately, that he was 'lacking' in empathy and that 'fantasising about stabbing people calmed' him.

'Despite his diagnosis, this boy still presents a moderate to high risk to the community if released,' he said.

Judge Muscat remanded the boy in custody for sentencing in December.
NSW Police is trying to stop Clare Nowland's daughter from watching 'confronting' bodycam footage of the moment her mother was tasered as part of a civil case the family has brought against the state.

The 95-year-old grandmother died in hospital in May, a week after she was tasered by a NSW Police officer at the Yallambee Lodge aged care home in Cooma in the state's south.

Officers were called to the facility on May 17 following reports Mrs Nowland, who had dementia, was wandering around holding kitchen knives.

Police allege Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White asked Mrs Nowland to relinquish the knife several times before saying 'bugger it' and firing his stun gun at the dementia patient, who was using a walking frame.

Clare Nowland died after being tasered at a Cooma retirement home on May 19, with her daughter attempting to view to the bodycam footage of the moment Ms Nowland was fired upon as a part of the civil case the family launched against the state

She fell backwards and hit her head on the floor before later dying at Cooma Hospital on May 24.

Mrs Nowland's family filed a civil case against the state of NSW for trespass to a person (assault and battery) and negligence on May 19, with her daughter Leslie Lloyd listed as the executor.

Since her death, Mrs Nowland's son Michael Nowland is now listed as the executor of the estate and the plaintiff in the proceedings.

Her children, Leslie Lloyd, Michael and Dennis Nowland tuned into the proceedings via AVL when it was mentioned in the NSW District Court on Thursday.

The matter had previously been dealt with in Bega where media were unable to attend, but this week an application to override a decision made by a registrar was brought to the District Court in Sydney.

Peter Tierney, representing Mrs Lloyd, told the court that she was seeking to have view-only access as a 'senior member of the family' and to emotionally support her brother, as executor of the estate.

The grandmother was wandering around the Yallambee Lodge nursing home holding kitchen knives before she was asked to relinquish them by officers

Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White, 33, allegedly said 'bugger it' before firing his taser at the 95-year-old dementia patient

Representing the state of NSW, Raphael Perla, opposed the application.

'We have some difficulty understanding why the police are here in such a strident opposition to a daughter of the deceased being able to view something that related to the death of her mother,' Mr Tierney told the court.

Judge Matthew Dicker SC told the court there was an 'issue of balancing the desire to protect' Constable White in the criminal proceedings while ensuring evidence in both cases was 'most reliable' and 'not capable of criticism'.

Despite the concerns, the judge allowed lawyers representing the family to be allowed to show Mrs Lloyd and Mr Nowland the bodycam footage of the incident.

But Mrs Lloyd would not be allowed to view the footage until at least December to ensure she has enough time to give police a statement that could be used in the criminal proceedings.

Judge Dicker questioned why a statement hadn't been taken despite the charges being laid in May.

Ms Nowland's daughter will be able to view Senior Constable White's (pictured, blue suit) bodycam footage in December after providing police with a statement

He told the court the six-week delay would be to ensure Mrs Lloyd's statement and recollection of her mother's condition was not 'contaminated' by her watching the video.

'There were legitimate matters raised concerning the crucial importance in our society of a fair criminal trial,' Judge Dicker said.

The judge ordered the state, and the NSW taxpayer, pay Mrs Lloyd's costs of the application after the state unsuccessfully fought the application.

While the application was successful, Mr Perla asked for the judge to put a stay on the orders for 28 days to allow the state to file an appeal.

This means the state has 28 days to appeal against Judge Dicker's decision, but if they don't decide to, Mrs Lloyd will be able to view the footage in December after giving police a statement.

Mediation in the matter would take place sometime before December, the court was told.

Constable White, 33, is facing charges of recklessly causing grievous bodily harm, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and common assault over the alleged 'excessive use of force'.

The case remains in the Local Court, with charge certification expected to happen in December.

Constable White has been suspended from duty with full pay.
Two huge pythons are on the loose in an exclusive beachside suburb after the animals were dumped by a woman's ex-boyfriend following a bitter breakup.

The woman posted to the Coogee and Randwick Local Loop community Facebook page on Wednesday begging for help to find her beloved 2.5m snakes - even offering a reward.

'My s**** ex threw a tantrum when I broke up with him and dumped my lovely hand-reared pet pythons out in a fit of anger (on Mount Street in Coogee),' she wrote.

The woman posted to the Coogee and Randwick Local Loop community Facebook page on Wednesday begging for help to find her beloved 2.5m snakes - even offering a reward (stock image)

The snakes were dumped on Mount Street in Coogee (pictured)

'I'm really scared for their safety, so please if anyone has seen them let me know... they are quite sweet and don't bite.'

'The brown one is called Bagel and the albino is called Mango.'

Both animals aged five and six, have been with Ms Dodson since they were born and could be prone to the dangers of the wild.

The snakes are native to Australia but are not native to the Sydney region.

Under the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, 'a person who, without authority, liberates in New South Wales any animal (other than a captured protected animal) is guilty of an offence'.

NSW Police told Daily Mail Australia they are not aware of this incident and it has not been reported.

Pictured: The woman's albino pet snake called Mango
More than 50 dim-witted criminals have been charged over offences committed while wearing GPS tags fitted when they were originally released from prison, figures show.

The Government's tagging scheme, launched in April 2021, has reduced reoffending rates from 25 per cent to less than two per cent, data indicates.

Even though they are guaranteed to be caught because of the tracking device, some released offenders have still not been able to resist the old criminal urges.

Justice secretary Alex Chalk said he planned to double the number of criminals tagged to more than 8,000 as part of a 156million investment in electronic monitoring technology.

'With one of these round their ankle, knowing that it is tracking their location, the data suggests that offenders are less likely to go back to their old ways,' he said.

Justice secretary Alex Chalk (pictured) said he planned to double the number of criminals tagged to more than 8,000 as part of a 156million investment in electronic monitoring technology

Police used a GPS tag on Ryan Cooney's leg to prove he had ripped a woman's bag from her shoulder before threatening McDonald's staff

'In fact, of more than 700,000 crimes, geolocation data is able to rule out tagged offenders in the overwhelming majority of cases, showing that they are tending to stay out of trouble.'

The technology can tell police when a tagged offender is in the vicinity of an unsolved crime, and also allows forces to eliminate suspects early from investigations if the tracking data indicates they were not at the scene.

READ MORE: Shoplifters face having to wear GPS tags under new emergency measures Advertisement

Despite the deterrent, dozens of shoplifters, muggers and burglars have reoffended while wearing one of the devices - with 58 charges brought after police used GPS data to link crooks with crime scenes.

Among them was a thug who robbed a branch of McDonald's and mugged a woman in the street while tagged with a GPS tracker.

Police used the tag on Ryan Cooney's leg to prove he had ripped a woman's bag from her shoulder before threatening restaurant staff until they gave him money from the till in Strood, Kent, last August.

Cooney was jailed for three years and four months after pleading guilty at Maidstone Crown Court.

Prolific burglar Ambrose Treeby also wore his electronic tag while looting the homes of elderly women, including a 90-year-old whose bank account he raided 20,000 from.

Police used data from the 39-year-old's tag to prove he had stolen the cash and he was jailed for 40 months for two burglaries and a count of fraud.

The Government's tagging scheme, launched in April 2021, has reduced reoffending rates from 25 per cent to less than two per cent, data indicates (stock image of electronic tag)

Prolific burglar Ambrose Treeby wore his electronic tag while looting the homes of elderly women, including a 90-year-old whose bank account he raided 20,000 from

A former serial burglar named only as Andy, from Gwent, said: 'The tag makes you feel like you're being watched 24/7 - you'd be crazy to go back to your old ways.

'Having it put around my ankle felt like the fresh start I needed to turn my life around and now I'm on the straight and narrow, running my own business.'

The pilot was rolled out across 19 of the 43 police forces in England and Wales, with the scheme expected to expand further.

Mr Chalk said: 'Tagging allows us to take a new, smart, approach to punishment.

'We can stick criminals on a tag that can tell us if they've left the house, if they're somewhere they shouldn't be, or even if they've drunk alcohol.

'Tags allow us to put limits on liberty and impose tough punishment, delivering a real sense of justice that works as a deterrent against further offending and can force criminals on to the straight and narrow.

'They are key to cutting crime, ending the scourge of petty theft, and reducing reoffending.'
Bruce Lehrmann could not be named as the high-profile Australian charged with rape in Toowoomba - until now - for two reasons.

Firstly, Queensland law expressly prohibited the identification of people charged with rape or prescribed sexual offences before they were committed to stand trial.

However, that law was overturned by the State Government this year, with the change coming into effect on October 3.

Secondly, Lehrmann then sought a non-publication order in the courts, which was recently dismissed by a local court magistrate.

On Thursday afternoon, the magistrate's decision to reject the gag order was upheld by Supreme Court Justice Peter Applegarth on judicial review.

That followed a legal argument in which Lehrmann's lawyer told the court his client could be in grave danger of self-harm if he was identified in public.

Daily Mail Australia can now reveal Lehrmann has been charged with two counts of rape over an alleged incident in Toowoomba, dating back to 2021.

He has not entered a plea.

Bruce Lehrmann can now be identified as the high-profile Australian from Toowoomba who has been charged with rape, after a court decision on Thursday

In his published reasons, Justice Applegarth said the magistrate's decision was not affected by any errors.

'The evidence before the magistrate included evidence that the potential naming of the applicant prior to the conclusion of the committal proceeding weighed heavily on him and had affected his mental health,' Justice Applegarth said in his judgment.

'This unfortunate effect on his mental health permitted, but did not compel, a finding that a non-publication order was necessary to protect the applicant's safety.'

Justice Applegarth said Mr Lehrmann had not established the magistrate's decision was unreasonable in the legal sense 'or so unreasonable that no reasonable magistrate could have made that decision'.

It follows the Queensland Government scrapping laws prohibiting the identification of people charged with rape or prescribed sexual offences before they are committed to stand trial.

Those laws expired on October 3, 2023.

But lawyers for the high-profile man had successfully sought an order preventing media outlets from naming him until now.

In a decision published on September 29, Queensland Supreme Court Justice Peter Applegarth AM said the man intended to apply for a suppression order under the new laws 'as soon as practicable'.

'The applicant seeks a temporary order from this Court to preserve the status quo until his application for an interim order in the Magistrates Court can be heard and determined,' Justice Applegarth said.

Justice Applegarth, in granting the temporary order, said the committal proceeding had 'attracted publicity', leading to 'substantial risk' the high-profile man's identity would be published as early as October 3.

On October 13, Mr Lehrmann's legal team and lawyers acting for the media outlets faced Toowoomba Magistrates Court, where his legal team argued the order should stay in place.

Barrister Andrew Hoare, acting for Mr Lehrmann, said there was a 'real existing risk of harm' to his client if his identity were to be published.

He said the man suffered from 'severe' suicidal ideation that had manifested over years.

Mr Hoare said his client could be in grave danger of attempting self-harm, which he submitted necessitated the order continuing.

But Robert Anderson KC, representing the media outlets, said Mr Lehrmann had not given evidence before the court, instead relying on his solicitors and his psychologist.

He noted Mr Lehrmann was prepared to go public with certain statements but was 'unprepared' to face the court and give evidence himself.

Mr Anderson said the defendant had 'no automatic right to protection' under the recent amendments to the legislation, and that the female complainant wanted his name to be made public.

'The complainant's voice is important to be heard,' he said.

'She wants the defendant to be named. It is not neutral, it is an active voice.'

Mr Anderson referred to several public statements given by Mr Lehrmann.

'There is an incredulity between the applicant's public presentation and what is said by... [his] doctor,' he said.

'It was irreconcilable.

'The applicant has not said anything to Your Honour directly. He has chosen to stay silent.'

Mr Anderson submitted Mr Lehrmann was ready to speak his own truth but was still asking this court to prevent the public from knowing who he is and prevent open justice.

He also said the man was attempting to deny the complainant's voice.

'He has voluntarily placed himself in a very public forum, in a way that will inevitably expose and require him to explain... all of his circumstances,' Mr Anderson said.

'His lawyers have told him to stay quiet, he has refused that advice.

'He wants to be heard - everywhere except here.'

Mr Lehrmann's application to keep his name under wraps was unsuccessful, but a temporary stay was put in place until October 26 so his legal representatives could appeal the decision.

In an unrelated case, Mr Lehrmann stood trial last year charged with the sexual assault of his former parliamentary colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019.

He had pleaded not guilty to raping Ms Higgins at Parliament House while the pair were staffers in former defence minister Linda Reynolds' office.

The trial was aborted due to juror misconduct.

The Director of Public Prosecutions declined to pursue a retrial over concerns of Ms Higgins' mental health, dropping the charges against Mr Lehrmann.

Mr Lehrmann has continued to deny the allegations.

Mr Lehrmann's case in Queensland remains before the courts.

His lawyer Rowan King told Toowoomba Magistrates Court at an earlier appearance he would attempt to keep his client's name suppressed when the disclosure laws kicked in.

On the last occasion, the court was told 'thousands' of pages worth of phone data had been reviewed by prosecutors as part of the case.

Another 800 pages of phone records still needed to be reviewed, crown prosecutor Nicole Friedewald said.

Lawyer Rowan King leaves Toowoomba CourtHouse. Picture: NewsWire / Sarah Marshall

The recent change to Queensland law was one of the major recommendations from the Women's Safety and Justice Taskforce to bring Queensland's laws in line with other states and territories.

Alongside the Northern Territory, Queensland was the only state or territory with such a protection in place.

The specific change removes restrictions in the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1978 that prohibit the identification of those charged with rape or offences such as attempt to commit rape, assault with intent to commit rape and sexual assault.

Those accused of these sexual offences are now treated the same as individuals charged with any other offence, with details about their identity able to be published.

Exceptions apply if it would identify or tend to lead to the identification of the complainant.
Steve Coogan has dismissed fans of the Royal Family as flag waving idiots - but is 'torn' on King Charles because he likes Waitrose's Duchy Originals range.

The left-wing luvvie, best known for his role as Alan Partridge, said 'most' of the people who support the monarchy were 'kind of idiots' who he was 'just not really keen' on.

Two-thirds of Britons support the UK remaining a monarchy, according to the latest Ipsos Political Monitor, while Charles' coronation attracted a peak viewing audience of 20million with tens of thousands more taking to the streets.

Coogan said he was a little 'torn' on King Charles because of his love of Waitrose's Duchy orange juice - a brand founded in 1990 by the King when he was Duke of Cornwall.

Speaking on the Off Menu podcast, he said: 'Most people who are into [the Royal family] are flag-waving people who, I think, are kind of idiots because they support a power structure that keeps a foot on the throat of working class people and I'm just not really keen on that type of people.

The left-wing luvvie has long been a supporter of Jeremy Corbyn

Two-thirds of Britons support the UK remaining monarchy, according to the latest Ipsos Political Monitor

'But having said that the Queen worked very hard so she was alright - the rest of them, they're problematic for me.'

Michelle Donelan, who served as culture secretary at the time of the Queen's death, previously revealed more than 250,000 people saw the monarch lying in state in London, with queues stretching from Parliament along the south bank of the Thames to Southwark Park.

Coogan, who plays Jimmy Savile in BBC drama The Reckoning, said he put aside his disdain for the royals while shopping at Waitrose.

READ MORE - Steve Coogan opens up about feeling enormous responsibility playing Jimmy Savile in BBC's The Reckoning Advertisement

'I do like King Charles' Duchy of Cornwall produce even though I am an anti-monarchist,' he said.

'It's interesting because I buy that stuff and I go ''I don't like having a Royal Family but I do like his produce'' so I feel a bit torn.'

Coogan was a long-term supporter of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, and is well known for his controversial political interventions.

Last week he was a prominent signatory to a letter that slammed Israel without condemning the terror attacks by Hamas that massacred 1,400 Israelis.

The letter, which was signed by more than 2,000 actors, musicians and artists, accused the British Government of 'not only tolerating war crimes but aiding and abetting them'.

The artists condemned 'every act of violence against civilians and every infringement of international law whoever perpetrates them'.

The message reads: 'Gaza is already a society of refugees and the children of refugees.

'Now, in their hundreds of thousands, bombarded from air, sea and land, Palestinians whose grandparents were forced out of their homes at the barrel of a gun are again being told to flee  or face collective punishment on an unimaginable scale.'

Coogan said he put aside his disdain for the royals while shopping at Waitrose

Referencing Israeli minister of defence Yoav Gallant's depiction of Palestinians as 'human animals', the signatories said Palestinians 'have become people to whom almost anything can be done'.

The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said yesterday that 6,546 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes since October 7.

On Tuesday, Coogan attacked Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, accusing him of waiting to see 'which way the wind blows'.

The actor claimed there was now little choice between Labour and Rishi Sunak's Government, accusing Sir Keir of 'reinforcing the establishment'.

Coogan told the BBC: 'I've got a big problem with Keir Starmer.

'In the morning, he licks his finger, sticks it up in the air, sees which way the wind is blowing and that's his attitude.

Coogan said he was a fan of the Duchy Originals range, which King Charles (pictured with Queen Camilla on October 18) founded when he was Prince of Wales

'When Gary Lineker tweeted about refugees, Keir Starmer wheeled out Emily Thornberry to quietly admonish Gary for his unwise choice of words, while he was hiding in the background to see which way the wind blows.

'The next day, when a tsunami of public support for Gary's sentiments emerged, guess what  Keir was right behind Gary!

'What a surprise. I am completely politically homeless. You can have a choice between a Right-wing government that reinforces the establishment and protects vested interests or a government that does that, but slightly less with a slightly different emphasis.

'That's not much of a choice.'
A bus passenger who fell asleep and woke to find himself locked inside a darkened bus smashed his way out while filming himself swearing in desperation.

A video of the foul-mouthed rant by the unidentified man has gone viral on social media.

In the film, posted on Snapchat and later uploaded to TikTok, the man begins by screaming: 'I just want to go home. I am locked in a f****** bus. Help me please.'

As he continues to swear he eventually manages to smash a window and climb out.

But he is still unable to get out of the bus depot and continues to rant and rave as he attempts to clamber over a wall.

Do you know the traumatised traveller? Email jon.brady@mailonline.co.uk

The man screams into the camera, 'I just want to go home. I am locked in a f****** bus'

In the video, which has gone viral, the man yells into the camera about his dilemma (left) - before he smashes a window to make his escape (right)

READ MORE: New Metro Memory Game where you have to correctly name all 416 Underground, Overground and Elizabeth line stops across the capital takes UK by storm Advertisement

Bus company officials on the Isle of Man have confirmed they are investigating the incident, which took place in the early hours of the morning at the Vannin bus depot in Douglas.

The video begins with the man pleading for help, saying: 'I can't get out. What do I do?'

He attempts to open a locked door but says: 'It doesn't work. Get me out of this stupid bus. I'm trapped. It's quarter past three in the morning.

'I've had to smash the bus window open so I can go home. Cheers for that. It's really made my weekend.'

After exiting through the broken window the man speaks into the camera saying he was standing on top of a Department of Infrastructure van so he could scale an 18ft fence around the deserted bus depot.

The video ends with the irate passenger saying: 'The p**** did not wake me up.'

It later emerged that the man had smashed a window  but failed to use the emergency exit at the rear of the bus that would have allowed him to leave without causing any damage.

A spokesman for Isle of Man police said they were investigating the incident.

The spokesman said: 'We have been made aware of a video circulating on social media on the island of a male who is locked inside a bus during the early hours on Sunday, October 22.

'As a result of being locked in, the man is seen to smash a window to exit the bus.

'We can confirm both the male in the video and personnel at Bus Vannin have been in communication with the police regarding the incident which will now be subject of an investigation.'

A spokesman for the Isle of Man Department of Infrastructure, which operates the island's bus services, confirmed the bus with the broken window had been taken out of service.

The spokesman added: 'Internal procedures are under way and the division is working with the police on this matter.'
When King Charles lands on Tuesday for a short tour of Kenya, he is expected to acknowledge some of the 'more painful' aspects of our shared history.

These will no doubt include the Mau Mau uprising of the 1950s and its often bloody suppression by British troops.

But there is also much to celebrate about our strong links with Kenya and the Commonwealth, says Richard Eden, who today urges the King and his advisers to avoid turning the visit into a 'misery tour'.

Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip on a bridge in the grounds of Sagana Lodge at the Treetops Hotel during a Commonwealth visit to Kenya in 1952. The following day, Prince Philip would break the news to Elizabeth that her father, King George VI, was dead

Thirty two years later, Elizabeth and Prince Philip are shown around Treetops, the hotel where she learned she was Queen

King Charles and Queen Camilla view items from the Royal Collection recalling the links between the Royal Family and Kenya

'It should be a celebration of Britain's close ties with Kenya and a chance to show how Commonwealth membership has benefited both countries since independence 60 years ago,' he writes in the latest edition of the Palace Confidential newsletter.

'Our Royal Family should be optimistic, joyful ambassadors for Britain, not miserable apologists for empire, which had positive as well as negative aspects.

The midweek tour of Kenya, which runs from Tuesday to Friday, will include some poignant notes, writes Eden.

'The East African nation is where his mother climbed into a tree a princess and climbed down a Queen.

'And at a Buckingham Palace reception this week he was presented with a photograph of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip at Treetops Hotel, in Aberdare National Park, where they were staying in 1952 when they learned that George VI had died and their lives would change forever.'

Accompanied by Queen Camilla, this will be the King's first trip to a Commonwealth nation since the death of his mother and his accession to the throne just over a year ago.

Prince Charles and Princess Anne on safari in the Masai Game Reserve in 1971

Prince Charles pictured on a visit to Lake Rudolf, Kenya, in 1971

According to his deputy private secretary, Chris Fitzgerald, the King will take the opportunity to acknowledge 'the more painful aspects of the United Kingdom and Kenya's shared history'.

Will he go further? There are real dangers in doing so, concludes Eden.
Sir Keir Starmer has been accused of gaslighting Muslim Labour MPs after he attempted to calm fury over his support for Israel in the Gaza crisis.

The opposition leader met a dozen backbenchers yesterday amid reports that four members of his front bench could quit over his support for Tel Aviv and refusal to call for an immediate ceasefire.

He has instead backed PM Rishi Sunak and the UN in calling for time-limited 'humanitarian pauses' to allow aid to enter the Palestinian enclave from Egypt.

But the meeting, which came after a Prime Minister's Questions session where he conspicuously focused on domestic issues, appears to have made matters worse.

Sources branded the meeting 'tokenistic' and said there was still deep anger around an interview Sir Keir did with LBC, in which he appeared to justify Israel cutting off the water supply to civilians in Gaza.

A source at the showdown with Sir Keir said MPs were 'livid' and frontbenchers could quit if he backed a ground invasion of Gaza by Israel. Another party insider described the mood among Muslim MPs as 'awful' and warned that the Muslim vote could be hit, hampering Labour's election chances.

Shadow faith minister Sarah Owen is among the Labour frontbenchers said to be on resignation watch. Her Luton North constituency has a large Muslim population.

It is feared by senior Labour figures that shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Hopkins, who represents neighbouring Luton South, might also jump ship.

The meeting came after a Prime Minister's Questions session where Sir Keir conspicuously focused on domestic issues

Shadow faith minister Sarah Owen is among the Labour frontbenchers said to be on resignation watch

It is feared by senior Labour party figures that shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Hopkins might also jump ship

A number of Labour MPs have suffered councillor resignations in their constituencies over the party's stance on the crisis

A total of 37 Labour MPs have signed a parliamentary motion, tabled by former shadow minister Richard Burgon, calling for an immediate ceasefire

What did Keir say in his LBC radio interview? Labour's row over the Middle East crisis has centred on Sir Keir Starmer's comments in a radio interview with LBC's Nick Ferrari on October 11. Sir Keir appeared to suggest Israel had the right to besiege Gaza by cutting off power and water to the territory. But the Labour leader has since sought to clarify his position and said he has never backed Israel's right to cut off supplies. Here's what was said in the LBC interview: Ferrari: 'Sir Keir Starmer, what is a proportionate response in your view?' Sir Keir: 'I think the first thing I have to say is responsibility lies with Hamas. 'This is coldblooded murder of men, women, even children. It is terrorism, and Israel has the right to defend herself. 'And there are ongoing situations with hostages, and Israel has the right to do everything that it can to get those hostages back safe and sound. 'And therefore Im very clear, Israel must have that, does have that right to defend herself. And Hamas bears responsibility.' Ferrari: ' A siege is appropriate? Cutting off power, cutting off water, Sir Keir?' Sir Keir: 'I think that Israel does have that right, it is an ongoing situation  obviously, everything should be done within international law but I dont want to step away from the sort of core principles that Israel has a right to defend herself and Hamas bears responsibility for these terrorist acts. 'And I would call on all responsible states, particularly Middle East responsible states, to call this out for what it is, and to stand with the world in condemning, utterly condemning, these actions by Hamas.' Advertisement

Another source told the Times people were 'still feeling gaslit' by Sir Keir's LBC comments and the saga had 'hurt the Muslim community deeply, they feel betrayed'.

It came as Israeli forces including tanks rolled into northern Gaza overnight in the biggest incursion of the war against Hamas so far to carry out 'targeted raids' on 'terrorist cells' ahead of a full-scale ground invasion.

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing.

The IDF said they struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts 'as part of preparations for the next stages of combat' against Hamas.

Israel's battle-hardened Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last night warned Hamas terrorists in a televised statement that they were 'doomed' as he vowed to push ahead with a ground invasion.

The backlash also saw 250 Muslim Labour councillors write to Sir Keir demanding he call for a ceasefire. And Yasmin Qureshi, a Labour frontbencher, broke ranks within the parliamentary party as she branded the situation in Gaza 'collective punishment'  an allegation being aimed at Israel for its blockade of the Gaza Strip.

In an interview with LBC after Hamas's October 7 atrocity, Sir Keir suggested Israel had the 'right' to cut off power and water from Gaza. But, acknowledging the 'distress' caused by the remarks, he subsequently sought to clarify his position, arguing that he did not mean to back the siege of more than two million Palestinians.

The deepening row came as:

French president Emmanuel Macron insisted a ground incursion by Israel into Gaza would be a 'mistake';

United Nations boss Antonio Guterres rejected 'misrepresentations' of his comments that the Hamas attacks 'did not happen in a vacuum';

Rishi Sunak backed 'specific pauses' in the conflict between Israel and Hamas to allow British nationals to escape Gaza and let aid in  but rejected calls for a ceasefire;

The head of Lebanon's Hezbollah group held talks in Beirut with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures in a key meeting of the three leading anti-Israel militant groups;

An RAF plane was last night on its way to Egypt with 21 tons of supplies for Gaza.

Israeli armoured vehicles take part in an operation, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, at a location given as the northern Gaza Strip in this still image taken from handout video released October 26, 2023

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing

A 'real operation' was under way last night to keep leading figures from quitting, fearing that one resignation could quickly be followed by others.

In a letter organised by the Labour Muslim Councillor Network, more than 200 signed to say: 'Every day we fail ... to push for cessation of hostilities, Gazan children and hundreds of innocent men and women pay the price.'

Labour said the meeting with MPs had been constructive, and Sir Keir had backed calls for a 'humanitarian pause', as mooted by US secretary of state Antony Blinken.

He said: 'It's clear that the amount of aid and essential utilities getting into Gaza is completely insufficient to meet the humanitarian emergency on the ground.

'That's why we have repeatedly said that aid, fuel, water, electricity and medicines must be urgently ramped up both through what can come in through the Rafah crossing and through Israel turning back on the supplies it controls.

'In the long term there can only be a political solution to this crisis which is why we need to restart the hard work of talks for a two-state solution of a viable Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel.'

A Labour spokesman did not say whether Ms Qureshi  spokesman for women and equalities  would be disciplined. And they denied that there was a rift with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, who accused Israel of a 'clear breach' of international law in Gaza.
A 'professional pickpocket' has taken to Piccadilly Circus to swipe mobile phones in broad daylight - before handing them back to their astonished owners.

Lee Thompson, a security expert who performs as a 'pickpocket for hire' to show people how easy it is to steal their belongings, can be seen distracting passers-by in central London as part of a publicity stunt for a mobile phone network.

In the footage, Thompson effortlessly slips his hand into the pockets of unsuspecting 'victims' and extracts the pricey devices without them realising - in some cases, pulling the stunt twice on the same person in a matter of seconds.

After filching the phones, he asks his 'victims' to show him their device - and that's when the penny drops. As one pats down their pockets, he produces it and quips: 'How would you feel if I had your phone?'

Speaking to a girl in a green jumpsuit, Magic Circle member Mr Thompson says: 'Go on, get your phone out' - and as it dawns on her it's missing, he pulls it from his own pocket, making her exclaim 'Oh my God,' covering her mouth with her hand.

Have you ever caught out or seen a pickpocket? Email jon.brady@mailonline.co.uk

Professional pickpocket Lee Thompson took to the streets of London to show how easy it is to lift phones from the pockets of unsuspecting victims

In the video, he can be seen deftly slipping phones out of his targets' pockets - without them realising

He then offers to give the phones back - for a fee. The stunt was filmed for Virgin Media O2, which claims consumers are overpaying for their phones to the tune of 530million each year

The stunt was filmed as part of a marketing campaign for Virgin Media O2 - but it's not the first time professional pickpocket Mr Thompson, from Solihull, has been recruited to show how easy it is to part Brits from their prized possessions.

In 2015, he was hired by building society Nationwide to prey on unsuspecting Londoners on the South Bank, and later appeared on The One Show on the BBC, where he stole presenter Matt Baker's phone, wallet, watch and even his tie.

His sleight of hand talents have seen him work with the likes of Cirque du Soleil - but his most recent role, as 'the Piccadilly Pickpocket', was filmed as part of an ad for the phone network as it rallies against excess contract charges.

As he offers to return the phones of his targets in Piccadilly Circus, he asks them if they'd pay to get back something they already own - which Virgin Media O2 claims consumers are doing when they continue paying for expired contracts.

The network estimates that Brits are paying 530m in excess contract charges every year, with millions overpaying for smartphones on deals that have run their course.

It estimates that the average consumer is paying 200 more than they should each year on expired deals - a quarter of the cost of buying a new iPhone 15.

Phone contracts see the cost of the device folded in for the minimum term - usually 24 months - and when that comes to an end the phone has been paid off.

But unless people either swap to a new deal, or change to a SIM-only contract that covers the cost of service alone, they end up paying for a phone that's already theirs.

Mr Thompson jokes in the video: 'It's daylight robbery.'

Lee Thompson nicks another phone from an unsuspecting victim - but thankfully he handed it back after showing just how easy it was to steal

Thompson's sleight-of-hand skills have seen him recruited by the likes of Cirque du Soleil

Brits admit they don't realise they're being overcharged for phones Virgin Media O2 says most customers of phone networks don't realise they're being overcharged for contracts that have run their course. Polling carried out by OnePoll for the operator found: 52 per cent of Brits admit they don't know how much it would have cost to buy their phone outright

30 per cent say they rarely check their phone bill to see if their contract has lapsed

48 per cent say they would never have signed up for a phone deal if they had known they were at risk of being overcharged

82 per cent say phone networks should do more to stop customers being overcharged at the end of their contracts

43 per cent say they would switch networks if they found out they were paying for a phone that they already owned outright

16 per cent of people believe that all phone providers are the same, deterring them from switching Advertisement

Research commissioned by Virgin Media O2 found that more than a quarter of Brits believe they are overpaying for their deals, while a similar number of people have been with the same network for a decade.

It has launched an online overpayment calculator that can tell consumers if it's time to switch up their contract.

Rob Orr, chief operations officer at the network, said: 'Every day, millions of people are unknowingly paying for phones they already own when they could be saving a fortune.

'Our research shows millions of phone users are rightly unhappy they're being asked to pay twice for their phones.

'We're continuing to shine a light on this pernicious practice to ensure Brits stop paying for what's rightfully theirs.'

Some of those surveyed by the network even said they had owned the same phone for a decade - suggesting that, if they never switched to a different contract, they may have paid for their phone twice or three times over.

But 30 per cent of Brits say they rarely check their phone bill to see if they're out of contract - despite two-thirds saying they would be unhappy to find out they were being charged for a phone they've paid for in full.

Mr Orr added: 'For the past decade, O2 has been the only network operator to have been automatically and fully reducing customers' bills once their handset has been paid off.

'But unfortunately, millions of people on other networks are getting swindled without even realising.

'At a time when three quarters of Brits have had to cut back on spending, it can't be right that other mobile network operators are continuing to charge their customers hundreds of pounds for phones they've already paid for.

'That money could go a long way right now, so we're urging everyone to check they're not overpaying using our online calculator, which reveals in just seconds if they're at risk.'

Not every victim of pickpocketing is quite so lucky, especially in London where a mobile phone is said to be stolen every six minutes.

The Met Police says 57,000 were stolen in the capital in 2022, with thieves using tactics such as distraction to make off with devices.

Snatchers have even taken to charging along streets on mopeds and pulling devices from people's hands as they're scrolling or making calls.

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan and Met Police chief Sir Mark Rowley have challenged smartphone makers such as Apple and Samsung to 'design out' robbery by making phones less appealing to thieves.

A summit involving the civic heads and phone bosses took place earlier this month, with Mr Khan calling for firms to devise new ways of securing mobile phones so they cannot be repurposed and sold on.

The Mayor said: 'Right now, it is far too easy and profitable for criminals to repurpose and sell on stolen phones. That must change.'
A serial conwoman who pretended to be more than 70 different people including a child orphan and a Russian gymnast has been arrested again on new charges.

Samantha Azzopardi was arrested by Victoria Police at High Street in Northcote, around 10km north-east of Melbourne's CBD on Tuesday October 10.

Police allege the 35-year-old woman obtained financial advantage by deception and was taken into custody for several acts of alleged deception across multiples areas in Melbourne.

The incidents allegedly took place between August 25 and October 9 2023.

A spokesperson from Victoria Police said Azzopardi is being held on remand until she faces court next month.

Samantha Azzopardi was arrested by Victoria Police at High Street in Northcote, around 10km north-east of Melbourne 's CBD on Tuesday October 10

'Victoria Police have arrested a woman following a series of alleged deceptions in Dandenong, Brighton and Reservoir,' the spokesperson said.

'A 35-year-old woman, of no fixed address, was arrested on High Street, Northcote on 10 October.

'She has been charged with obtain financial advantage by deception.'

Azzopardi made worldwide headlines in 2013 after falsely claiming she was a 14-year-old victim of child trafficking in Dublin.

She only spoke in broken English to police and communicated by drawing pictures after she had been taken into care.

A major international investigation however, determined she was a fantasist.

Throughout her life, Azzopardi has pretended to be several people including a 13-year-old school girl named Harper Hart and a 15-year-old Russian gymnast named Emily Sciberras.

Her exploits were recounted in a four-part documentary series called Con Girl.

Police allege the 35-year-old woman obtained financial advantage by deception and was taken into custody for several acts of alleged deception across multiples areas in Melbourne

It revealed how she duped a family in 2010 to take her in after she claimed she was a gymnast.

They had even prepared to adopt Azzopardi after falling for her alias before several documents uncovered her real identity.

In October 2019, a French couple in Melbourne took her into their home after she claimed to be an 18-year-old woman named Sakah.

Azzopardi took the couple's children to a psychiatric hospital a month later where she claimed she had been abused by her uncle.

More recently, Azzopardi faced Sydney's Downing Local Court in December 2022 after pleading guilty to telling police she was a 14-year-old child abuse victim from France.

She had been sentenced to 17-months behind bars when her case was previously heard in November last year.

During the hearing in December, Azzopardi's lawyer Stewart O'Connell said that Azzopardi was 'unable at the present time to control this impulse (to make false reports) and it is unambiguous in the (medical) reports that this will not change until she has received intense and ongoing psychological assistance'.

Azzopardi made worldwide headlines in 2013 after falsely claiming she was a 14-year-old victim of child trafficking in Dublin

The court heard the con artist had been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder and persistent depressive disorder with anxiety, with additional diagnoses suggested by different medical experts.

The court was also told that Azzopardi was diagnosed with a condition known as pseudologia fantastica, which manifests itself as compulsive and pathological lying.

She had her sentence reduced by the judge to three months after it was labelled 'somewhat harsh'.

Azzopardi has been ordered to front Heildelberg Magistrates Court on Wednesday November 1.
Car chases. Shrapnel wounds. Surrounded by terrorists facing almost certain death.

The story of Dor Kapah, one of the thousands of Israeli civilians partying at the Nova music festival when Hamas gunmen streamed over the Gaza border to launch their ruthless massacre, is truly fit for the silver screen.

Circumstances forced the typically mellow massage therapist to undergo a rapid transformation into bona-fide action hero as he piloted a getaway vehicle filled with terrified civilians from a fleet of rifle-wielding terrorists chasing them down on motorbikes.

His friend escaped death by mere millimetres when shrapnel from a terrorist blast tore off part of his scalp, while Dor himself saved his crew from being shot dead when he managed to ram a Hamas militant off the road.

Now, still facing an agonising wait for news of his friends who were abducted and dragged into Gaza by the Islamist attackers, Dor shares with MailOnline his breathless, adrenaline filled escape from the festival in vivid detail.

Dor tells how he and his friends were hunted by terrorists at the Nova music festival

One of Dor's passengers lost a chunk of his scalp when shrapnel from terrorist gunfire scarred the back of his head

Dor was ready to flee the festival ground but then he received a call from a friend telling him not to leave because 'the streets are full of terrorists'

Scenes from kibbutz Be'eri, where Dor was forced to hide for six hours from Hamas terrorists

A home destroyed during the attack by Hamas is seen within Kibbutz Be'eri on October 14, 2023 in Be'eri, Israel

'Everything was amazing until 6am... then we saw the trails of missiles streaking into the air,' Dor said.

'The music stopped, everybody panicked. People started running, lying on the floor... it was complete chaos. We started hearing gunshots in the distance... then we saw them coming - 400 metres. 300 metres.'

Dor and his friends began packing up their belongings and readying their jeep to flee the festival ground. But then he received a call from a friend in a nearby kibbutz that plunged the group into a catch-22.

'Don't leave the festival,' the friend said. 'The streets are full of terrorists.'

It was at that moment Dor truly realised the horror of his predicament - damned if you stay, damned if you go, with gunmen lying in wait at every turn.

But with terrorists wielding AK-47s bearing down on him, Dor and his pals were left with no choice but to pile into their jeep and take off.

Swerving between festival tents towards the exit, Dor stopped only to pick up yet more desperate festivalgoers who flagged him down and begged him to save them.

'I see people running towards us from the exits and a group of 30-40 terrorists... they were being hunted like ducks,' Dor exclaimed.

Having left the festival ground, the group sped towards nearby scrubs where they happened upon an abandoned, damaged IDF armoured car. They spotted an IDF assault rifle lying on the ground, scooped it up and took refuge in the bushes.

For a few minutes, the revellers thought they were safe. They hopped out of the jeep and began calling their families.

But the moment of peace was shattered by the rumble of motorbike engines and seconds later a group of Hamas gunmen came flying across the fields towards them, followed by terrorists in trucks.

Dor's passengers made frantic calls to the police as they fled the festival grounds

Dor narrowly avoided being shot at near point blank range, managing to run over one terrorist on a motorbike before he could fire his weapon

Rubble is seen at a burnt out nursery in Be'eri

An Israeli soldier in the destroyed Jewish home in the community of Kibbutz Be'eri along the border with the Gaza Strip

The group dove back into the jeep, but two passengers chose to run further into the bushes. It is believed they were later captured and dragged across the border.

Dor set off again, heading for kibbutz Be'eri - where it was later revealed that more than 100 Israeli civilians had been shot, stabbed and burned in their homes.

It was at the intersection entering Be'eri that Hamas terrorists on motorbikes caught up with Dor, prompting him to speed up yet again and head off road, swerving violently to avoid the stream of bullets.

Despite his erratic driving, Hamas still managed to pepper the jeep with several rounds. Shrapnel from one blast tore through the cabin and scorched across the back of the head of one passenger, Gilad, tearing skin from his scalp.

'I was shot in the head!' Gilad shouts. 'Hold the wound, squeeze tight!' Dor responded as he continued to zig-zag his vehicle away from the terrorists.

Suddenly, one motorbike pulled up right in front of Dor's jeep.

'The terrorist looks me in the eye and he shouts: ''It's a Jew - kill the Jew!''

The Hamas fighter scrambled for his weapon but Dor rammed the motorbike with the front of the jeep, sending the rider flying through the air before crumpling into a nearby ditch.

Entering Be'eri, there was nowhere left to run. Dor stopped the truck beside some shrubbery and, pulling a bleeding Gilad along with him, forced his way into a dilapidated public toilet building.

There they cowered for six hours as Hamas gunmen came and went, shooting at the doors and windows before going off to massacre more civilians throughout the kibbutz.

'Even if our friends return from over the border, they will never be the same again,' Dor said before breaking down

Forensic examiners extract bone fragments from the ruins of a burnt out house in Be'eri

Members of Army rescue and ZAKA crews search for bodies and body parts after the Hamas and Palestinian militants' attack on the Kibbutz on October 22, 2023

'There's nothing we could do. Pieces of the ceiling were crumbling on us. We barricaded ourselves inside for six hours.

'You can hear screams, the missiles, the shots of the Kalashnikov.' Dor went on, his voice trembling.

But just when it seemed all hope was lost, Dor said he could hear 'the language of the IDF'. Military service is mandatory in Israel, and most civilians undergo two or more years of army training.

Hearing the voices of IDF soldiers gave Dor and his wounded friend the strength to run for cover before joining up with the military unit and evacuating the hell hole.

Sharing his thoughts with MailOnline after his heroic but harrowing ordeal, Dor could only speak of his friends and other Israeli citizens who were abducted and pulled back into Gaza by the terrorists.

'People will not be who they were again. Even if our friends return from over the border, those who have been kidnapped will never be the same again.'

Dor agreed to share his story after speaking with Survived To Tell, an initiative of the NGO Israel Is, which seeks to help survivors of the Hamas massacre, as well as friends and family of those abducted, to tell their stories.
Rishi Sunak today warned that terrorists and criminals could use artificial intelligence technology to build weapons of mass destruction and carry out child abuse - but urged the public not to lose sleep over it.

In a major speech today ahead of an international summit to be held in the UK next week the prime minister set out the risks that AI could cause if it is not controlled properly.

He warned that terrorists could use it to build chemical and biological weapons, while organised crime could harness it for 'cyber attacks, disinformation, fraud or even child sexual abuse'.

Speaking in London ahead of the Bletchley Park gathering - to which China has accepted an invitation - he also outlined how, 'in the most unlikely but extreme cases, there is even the risk that humanity could lose control of AI completely'.

It came after a Government paper published last night reveals how advances in AI will make it cheaper and easier for hackers, scammers and terrorists to attack innocent victims  all within the next 18 months.

Mr Sunak is hosting next week's summit amid fears the next generation of AI models, due to be released next year, could prove much riskier than those currently available.

Yet, after painting a bleak picture, the PM tried to calm fears by saying AI could be a force for good if properly controlled, bringing potential advances in power generation and medicine.

He also suggested it would not cause job loses but help workers become more productive.

In a major speech today ahead of an international summit to be held in the UK next week the prime minister set out the risks that AI could cause if it is not controlled.

Speaking in London after visiting Moorfields Eye Hospital (pictured) he also outlined how, 'in the most unlikely but extreme cases, there is even the risk that humanity could lose control of AI completely'.

The Government will host an AI Safety Summit at Bletchley Park next week, bringing together world leaders, tech firms and civil society to discuss the emerging technology.

It is still unclear whether China will attend, despite accepting an invitation, or who might be sent by Beijing amid ongoing tensions with the West.

US vice president Kamala Harris is set to attend the summit, with her visit to reportedly come after the White House unveils a long-awaited AI executive order on Monday.

There has been a strong pushback in Whitehall at suggestions the White House's major AI announcement, just a day before the summit, will distract from Mr Sunak's efforts at Bletchley Park.

Sources pointed to the fact most major AI companies are based in the US or the UK and there is a need for collaboration between the two countries over the emerging technology.

Ahead of the summit, Mr Sunak announced the Government would establish the 'world's first' AI Safety Institute, which the Prime Minister said would 'carefully examine, evaluate and test new types of AI so that understand what each new model is capable of' and 'exploring all the risks'.

He said the government would not rush to regulate AI, but he added: 'Get this wrong and it could make it easier to build chemical or biological weapons. Terrorist groups could use AI to spread fear and disruption on an even greater scale.

'Criminals could exploit AI for cyber attacks, disinformation, fraud or even child sexual abuse.

'And in the most unlikely but extreme cases, there is even the risk that humanity could lose control of AI completely through the kind of AI sometimes referred to as 'super intelligence'.'

He also defended inviting China to next week's AI safety summit, against the wishes of soem Tory backbenchers who want him to take a harder line with Beijing.

Rishi Sunak told an audience in central London: 'We're bringing together the world's leading representatives, from civil society to the companies pioneering AI and the countries most advanced in using it.

'And yes, we've invited China. I know there are some who will say they should have been excluded but there can be no serious strategy for AI without at least trying to engage all of the world's leading AI powers.

'That might not have been the easy thing to do but it was the right thing to do.'

READ MORE: Paedophiles are using AI to create sexual images of celebrities as CHILDREN, report finds Advertisement

The government report predicts so-called bots  social media accounts that appear like real people  will target users with 'personalised disinformation', machines will launch their own cyberattacks without needing human direction, and anyone will be able to learn how to create the world's most dangerous weapons.

The paper, based on expert sources across academia and in UK intelligence, warns the increasingly powerful technology could even, perhaps in the next decade, persuade humans to hand over total control  leading to potentially 'catastrophic' consequences 'where systems may act autonomously in a way that does not align with our intentions or values'.

The terrifying predictions come ahead of the world's first AI Safety Summit, held in the UK next week, and as a poll found one in five Britons believe AI will likely lead to the extinction of the human race.

Global leaders, tech chiefs, and cyber experts are set to jet in for the two-day summit at Bletchley Park from Wednesday to work out how to deploy AI safely.

The Prime Minister, who wants the event to signal the UK will lead the way on AI regulation, warned that the UK cannot 'put our heads in the sand' when it comes to the risks.

Taking questions after his speech, the Prime Minister said: 'We already invest far more in AI safety research than any other country in the world, that is what our taskforce... is doing.

'There is debate about whether these risks will manifest at all and indeed over what timeframe, and you can see that debate in the community of AI experts and researchers.

'But my view is that even if there is uncertainty, the risk could be potentially significant, so it is right that we take all the steps necessary to protect people and keep them safe, and that is what we will continue to do.'

He said the new institute and next week's safety summit was an example of how he wanted to keep the public safe.

Mr Sunak continued: 'What we can't do is just put our heads in the sand and think this can be either be ignored or will stop happening.

'It is not going to stop - AI doesn't respect borders, so what the right approach is for us is to be ahead of it in developing the expertise and capabilities to understand the risk and then mitigate against them.'

The report, which will serve as a discussion paper at the event, tells how Britain is in the 'midst of a technological revolution that will fundamentally alter the way we live, work and relate to one another'.

AI will rapidly improve public services, find cures for diseases, and make us more productive, it says. But it warns that with these 'huge opportunities' come risks that 'threaten global stability'. It sets out how so-called 'generative AI', the technology behind ChatGPT, will make hackers, fraudsters and terrorists far more dangerous within the next 18 months.

As the technology becomes more powerful yet even easier to use, it will lower the barriers to 'less-sophisticated threat actors', who will be able to carry out previously 'unattainable attacks'.

Generative AI allows users to create completely new content  such as audio, photos and videos  from scratch. The complex algorithm behind it uses data from across the internet to carry out tasks, such as explaining how to make a radioactive bomb or creating a fake picture of a politician meeting a terrorist.

A poll found one in five Britons believe AI will likely lead to the extinction of the human race

Computer hacking will likely become 'fully automated', with software bots launching cyberattacks. The ability to create chemical, biological and radioactive weapons will be far easier for terrorists and criminals, the report warns.

While such capabilities are usually reserved for nations, due to the difficulty in acquiring the materials and components, these 'barriers have been falling and gen AI could accelerate this trend'.

Public debate is also likely to become increasingly 'polluted', with ultra-realistic 'deepfakes' creating realistic replicas of people or even events. AI may even create 'emotional distress... by fake kidnapping or sextortion scams'. Bots on social media are likely to create a constant stream of fake news. By 2026, the report expects this so-called synthetic media to make up a 'large proportion of online content, which will fuel extremism and erode trust in public institutions'.

In the longer term, it warns humans may find themselves handing control to AI systems  and then find it more difficult to take back control. Experts are concerned the computers may try to convince human operators to do so as they 'actively seek to increase their own influence'.

Although this remains contested, many fear this loss of control is 'a real possibility' and 'could be permanent and catastrophic'. As well as 'manipulating humans', it says AI could also 'acquire influence by exploiting vulnerabilities in computer systems. Offensive cyber capabilities could allow AI to gain access to money, computing resources and critical infrastructure.'
A cruel landlady who was jailed for holding a vulnerable woman as a domestic slave in a 16-year-campaign of physical and psychological abuse has been ordered to pay her victim 200,000.

Wealthy Farzana Kausar, 59, was locked up for six years and eight months last December after she was convicted of keeping a person in slavery and attempting to pervert the court of justice.

Throughout the years of abuse, Kausar's victim, Jacqueline Whittington - a vulnerable 62-year-old woman - said she 'wanted to kill herself' as she was forced to cook, clean and care for the landlady's children, often working 14-hour days.

Kausar went on to steal 80,000 of Ms Whittington's benefits and isolated from her loved ones.

Callous Kausar has now been ordered to pay her victim 198,000, which includes benefits she took from her, along with unpaid wages during her time in servitude.

Wealthy property owner Farzana Kausar, 59, was locked up for six years and eight months last December after she was convicted of keeping a person in slavery and attempting to pervert the court of justice

The callous landlady has been ordered to pay her victim 198,000, which includes benefits she took from her, along with unpaid wages during her time in servitude

Kausar's victim, Jacqueline Whittington (pictured) - a vulnerable 62-year-old woman - said she 'wanted to kill herself' as she was forced to cook, clean and care for the landlady's children, often working 14-hour days

An additional 7,000 was also confiscated for National Insurance payments.

The lump sump was calculated as a mean value, based on Ms Whittington receiving the national minimum wage or national average income.

Lewes Crown Court in East Sussex heard that Kausar has sufficient funds to pay the confiscation order in full, and was given three months to do so or face an extension to her jail sentence.

Throughout the years of harm, Kausar would ferry Ms Whittington between properties in Sussex and London, forcing her to look after her young children, cook for the family, clean their home and carry out other household chores.

She would then accompany Ms Whittington to all medical appointments, insisting that she was her carer and had her best wishes at heart.

The selfish woman had taken full control of Ms Whittington's finances, opening a bank account in her name and made benefit claims on her behalf. She withdrew money from the accounts and pocketed benefit payments for herself.

Her victim's bank accounts were used to pay bills from across Kausar's property empire and her name was used to register Kausar's car for disabled use  allowing her to dodge road tax and park in disabled bays.

Police were alerted in May 2019, when a nanny who had been employed to support Kausar's family noticed one of the helpers was treated differently.

She was subjected to abuse, seemed to be carrying out most of the household chores and appeared to be living at the address.

The nanny informed social services, which reported it to Sussex Police, explaining that 'something didn't feel quite right' about the situation she had witnessed.

Detectives visited the address and found all Ms Whittington's belongings were in black bin bags, and she was forced to sleep in the children's bedroom.

She had no access to her ID documents, passport or bank cards, which were found in a locked room, along with financial documents made out in her name related to addresses to which she had no connection.

Kausar was arrested on suspicion of modern slavery offences and assault before being released on conditional bail while the enquiry continued.

Ms Whittington was then rehoused and was supported by social services. But shortly after, she disappeared. Her phone numbers were disconnected, she left her GP and made no contact with any support services.

She only resurfaced when the officer in charge of the case received a letter, seemingly from Ms Whittington, retracting her allegations and claiming it was all an elaborate set-up by the informant to get Kausar into trouble.

Police were able to trace Ms Whittington to an address in London in May 2020. It was revealed that the letter had been written under duress.

The victim had been forced to write it by Kausar in an attempt to cover up her crimes.

Ms Whittington was freed for a second time and placed in safe accommodation, while Kausar was further arrested for attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Jurors took just three hours last October to find Kausar guilty of keeping a person in slavery and perverting the course of justice.

They had heard throughout the trial that Ms Whittington had considered suicide because she 'just can't take it any more', attributing her will to live to the love of the children in the home.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Josh Bellamy said: 'Farzana Kausar denied her victim the most basic of human needs during 16 years of control and manipulation.

'She amassed her own personal wealth while siphoning off her victim's benefits, using her bank accounts to pay for bills and forcing her to work in her home without payment.

'Kausar is rightly behind bars and, while her vulnerable victim lost years of her freedom and must deal with the impact for the rest of her life, I hope these financial reparations go some way to compensating her for the treatment she has suffered.'

DC Bellamy added: 'This confiscation order should also send a clear message to offenders that we will do everything in our power to hold you fully accountable for your crimes and will use all tools at our disposal to get justice for victims.

'If you believe you, or someone you know, may be a victim of modern slavery, please contact police.'

You can contact The Samaritans helpline 24/7 on 116 123 for help and support.
A gunman has killed at least 18 and left 13 injured in a small town in Maine in what is believed to be the deadliest mass shooting in the US this year.

Army reservist and firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, is currently being hunted as a suspect in the deadly shooting by state and federal police.

Police have warned civilians to stay away from Card, as he is 'armed and dangerous' and has a history of mental health problems.

He killed and injured dozens of people when he took an AR-15 rifle with a laser-optic attachment into two locations in Lewiston, a small city of around 36,000, at around 7pm local time last night and shot at customers in both locations.

The two shootings took place at Sparetime Recreation, a restaurant and bowling alley, and Schemengees, a bar and grill.

A gunman has killed at least 18 people and injured 13 in the town of Lewiston, Maine. Police in Lewiston are hunting for the suspect, pictured at the Sparetime recreation center. The first call came in for Sparetime at 7:15pm

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night

How the mass shooting unfolded 7:00pm Multiple causalities are reported at the two locations in Lewiston. The shooter is seen walking into Sparetime Recreation carrying an AR-15 with a brown hoodie and blue jeans, but police do not yet publish pictures of him. 8:00pm Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office publishes several CCTV stills of the suspect, and says it is investigating two active shooter incidents. The force asks 'all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate.' 8:09pm Maine's state police joins in the hunt for the shooter, who at this point has still not been named, and says that because of 'an active shooter in Lewiston,' residents needed to stay inside their homes and lock their doors. 'Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations,' the force added. 8:26pm The neighboring town of Auburn urges all its citizens to shelter in their homes, following the warnings from state and city police. 8:53pm Lewiston Police reveal the names of the two shooting locations, which are roughly four miles apart, though it takes just nine minutes to drive from one to the other. 9:17pm Lewiston police publish a CCTV image of a white SUV, asking members of the public to contact them if they have seen it. Maine State Police later revealed that the image is of the suspect's car. 10:52pm Lewiston Police reveal via a Facebook post that Robert Card, born 4/4/1983, is the 'person of interest' they're hunting, along with what appears to be a mugshot. Around 11:30pm The commissioner of Maine's Department of Public Safety, Mike Sauschuck, says that the white SUV belonging to the suspect was found in Lisbon, around 8 miles from Lewiston. He adds that the suspect is still at large at this point. Advertisement

Chilling CCTV images show Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, pointing his rifle as he walked into the bowling alley, while dramatic footage shows terrified people running for their lives.

Lewiston city councilor Robert McCarthy said 18 people were dead, with 50-60 injured. Some reportedly had injuries from a stampede.

Maine's hospitals said they were declaring a mass casualty event.

The death toll, which could yet rise, is the largest from a mass shooting this year.

Survivors have described how they escaped by fleeing down bowling lanes and hiding behind pins as the gunman used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire while children were playing - with teenagers among the injured.

Meghan Hutchinson described the horror when her daughter was grazed by a bullet in the bowling alley as they were running away from the gunman.

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive ... was bleeding profusely. So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911,' the mother told WMTW.

An unnamed mother asked for prayers for her 22-year-old son, who was hit four times and is on a ventilator. She told WMTV about 20 other people were waiting for updates on their loved ones at the hospital.

Survivor Riley Dumont said her 11-year-old daughter was playing in the children's bowling league when she heard several gunshots. She told ABC News her father, a retired police officer, rushed the family into a corner.

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well,' Dumont said. At least seven people were killed in the first shooting.

Lisbon authorities have since told residents to keep sheltering as the major hunt for the alleged shooter continues.

The city of Auburn, just across the Androscoggin River, has also warned residents to remain indoors.

'ALERT: There is an active shooter incident in progress in the City of Lewiston,' they wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

'ALL Auburn & Lewiston residents are strongly urged to shelter in place, lock all doors & report suspicious individuals and activities to 9-1-1.

'Most businesses in the area have closed/are closing.'

Card, from Bowdoin in Maine, had a history of mental health problems, and previously reported hearing voices and had threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine, according to the Maine Information and Analysis Center - a division of the Maine state police.

He was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over the summer, and reportedly lost his job recently.

More information about Card and the shooting is expected to be released later today, as Maine's state police will be holding a news conference at 10:30am local time (3:30pm UK time).

People are seen running from the scene of a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine

Crowds scattered after shots rung out on Wednesday evening

The shooting has rocked the state to its core.

Maine has a fairly high level of gun ownership, and relatively lax laws: Roughly half of its households have firearms, according to research cited by Maine public radio last year.

There is no independent background check system, no red flag law to identify those at extreme risk for gun violence, no requirement that convicted domestic abusers turn in their guns and no permit requirements for concealed weapons.

Card, as a certified firearms instructor, would have had no problem in obtaining weapons.

But unlike many states with such a large supply, it sees relatively few fatal shootings each year: 89 percent of gun deaths are suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 22 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

Dozens of anxious and distressed residents were hurried inside a reunification center at Auburn Middle School by officers

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to Card. Sheriffs said at 11:20pm on Wednesday the car was found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, about seven miles away

Police officers surround an armored law enforcement vehicle parked on the parking lot of the Lisbon High School gymnasium

Law enforcement vehicles drive on the parking lot of the Lisbon High School gymnasium

'There's no large cities in Maine,' said Representative Chellie Pingree, a Democrat.

'So this isn't like being in Dallas or New York City. It's a very tight-knit community in spite of the fact that it's a city, and I'm just sure there's just an enormous number of grieving families.'

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search. Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records.

'The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance,' the Bureau said.
Tuesday night's massacre in Maine, in which as many as 22 people were killed and dozens more injured, ranks among the top ten most deadly mass shootings in US history.

At the time of writing, the suspect in Tuesday's shooting, that took place in the community of Lewiston, Robert Card, 40, remains-at-large.

The gunman opened fire at the Sparetime Bowling Alley around 7:15 pm, he then moved on to a second location, Schemengees Bar, to continue the rampage around 8:00 pm.

There is no consensus on what constitutes a mass shooting. The Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as an attack in which four or more people are injured.

The FBI defines a mass shooting as 'one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area' - a different metric to most organizations who consider the number of victims to define it as such.

There are about 120 guns for every 100 Americans, according to the Switzerland-based Small Arms Survey.

No other nation has more civilian guns than people, with around 44 percent of US adults living in a household with a gun.

In 2023 alone, there have already been 565 such shootings, taking the lives of 15,000 people.

These are the most deadly shootings in American history:

1. Las Vegas country music concert shooting - October 1, 2017 - 61 dead, 867 injured

Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor music festival on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of a hotel-casino

His weapons were seen laying in the bathroom and around the hotel room. A dozen of Paddock's weapons were modified with rapid-fire 'bump stocks,' attachments that effectively convert semi-automatic rifles into fully automated weapons

Stephen Paddock opened fire on an outdoor music festival on the Las Vegas Strip from the 32nd floor of a hotel-casino, killing 58 people and wounding more than 500.

SWAT teams with explosives then stormed his room and found he had killed himself.

Paddock's motives have never been firmly established. Some said that he was influenced by his father's criminal history, some said that he had issues with his brain.

His girlfriend later called him a 'a kind, caring, quiet man.'

2. Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando - June 12, 2016 - 50 dead, 58 injured

All 49 of the innocent victims of the Pulse nightclub shooting

Omar Mateen, the gunman who killed 49 people during an attack on the Pulse Nightclub in Orlando



Omar Mateen opened fire at an Orlando, Florida, nightclub, killing 49 people. Mateen was later killed in a shootout with police.

FBI officials later said that Mateen had been 'leaning' towards radical Islamic beliefs. Some said that he was a regular at Pulse and others said that they had seen him on gay dating apps. Homophobia is thought to have been a motive in his attack.

3. Virginia Tech shooting - April 16, 2007 - 33 dead, 23 injured

Virginia Tech student Seung-Hui Cho, the deadliest college shooter of all time

Police officers gather in front of McBryde Hall on the campus of Virginia Tech University on that fateful day

Virginia Tech student Seung-Hui Cho shot and killed 32 people and wounded 17 others in separate attacks on campus before killing himself.

Cho, a native of South Korea, used two pistols during the killings. The violence at the school ended when he shot himself in the head. In a manifesto that was made public after the violence, Cho said that he had been pushed 'into a corner.'

4. Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting - December 14, 2012 - 28 dead, 2 injured

The 20 children who were killed in the Sandy Hook mass shooting. Top row (L to R): Ana Marquez-Greene, Caroline Previdi, Jessica Rekos, Emilie Parker, Noah Pozner. Second row: (L to R): Jesse Lewis, Olivia Engel, Josephine Gay, Charlotte Bacon, Chase Kowalski. Third row (L to R): Daniel Barden, Jack Pinto, Catherine Hubbard, Dylan Hockley, Benjamin Wheeler. Bottom row (L to R): Grace McDonnell, James Mattioli, Avielle Richman, Madeleine Hsu, Allison Wyatt

The adult victims of the Sandy Hook shooting included (L to R): Teacher Rachel Davino, 29, para professional Anne Marie Murphy, 52, and permanent substitute teacher Lauren Rousseau, 30

Sandy Hook elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, was later demolished after the massacre

In Newtown, Connecticut, an armed 20-year-old man entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and used a semi-automatic rifle to kill 26 people, including 20 first-graders and six adult school staff members. He then killed himself.

The shooter, Adam Lanza, earlier shot his own mother dead in her bed before traveling to the school.

In the years that followed, the shooting remained in the news as conspiracy theorist Alex Jones maintained that the shootings had been a 'false flag' operation perpetrated by the US government.

As a result of his claims, Jones was ordered to pay the victim's families billions of dollars in court.

5. Sutherland Springs church shooting - November 5, 2017 - 27 dead, 22 injured

Devin Patrick Kelley arrived at a church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, prepared for war, with AR-style weapon while wearing tactical gear

Devin Patrick Kelley, who had been discharged from the Air Force after a conviction for domestic violence, used an AR-style firearm to shoot up a congregation at a small church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, killing more than two dozen.

It was later discovered that Kelley had a violent history, including in 2012 when he broke the skull of his stepson.

Kelley was later described as an 'outcast' but authorities ruled out race or religious motivations for his heinous crime.

6. Luby's shooting, Killeen, Texas - October 16, 1991 - 23 dead, 27 injured

The scene at Luby's cafeteria in the aftermath of George Hennard's massacre

George Hennard drove his pickup truck though the front window of Luby's restaurant in Killeen, Texas, and then fatally shot 23 people, wounded 27 others and then killed himself after a shootout with police.

Hennard was later found to have had problems with women and believed that white women were conspiring not to date him. Witnesses later said that he passed over men during his attack in order to shoot women.

The gunman worked as a merchant seaman and had recently lost his job when marijuana was found in his locker.

One of his drinking buddies told The New York Times that Hennard was a nice guy but that he would say 'crazy things' when he was drunk.

7. El Paso Walmart shooting - August 3, 2019 - 23 dead, 23 injured

Patrick Crusius , 24, pleaded guilty earlier this year to nearly 50 federal hate crime charges in the 2019 mass shooting in El Paso, making it one of the America's largest hate crime cases.

This CCTV image courtesy of KTSM 9 News Channel, shows the gunman identified as Patrick Crusius, 24, entering the Cielo Vista Walmart store in El Paso on August 3, 2019. - The 21-year-old Texan who killed 23 people in a racist rampage

Patrick Crusius, 24, who killed 23 people in a racist attack on Hispanic shoppers at a Walmart in a Texas border city was sentenced in July to 90 consecutive life sentences but could still face more punishment, including the death penalty.

Crusius pleaded guilty earlier this year to nearly 50 federal hate crime charges in the 2019 mass shooting in El Paso, making it one of the U.S. governments largest hate crime cases.

Crusius, wearing a jumpsuit and shackles, did not speak during the hearing and showed no reaction as the sentence was read. U.S. District Judge David Guaderrama recommended that Crusius serve his sentence at a maximum security prison in Colorado and receive treatment and counseling for a severe mental health condition.

8. San Ysidro McDonald's massacre - July 18, 1984 - 23 dead, 19 injured

James Huberty drove to a McDonald's in the San Ysidro neighborhood of San Diego, California, armed with an Uzi submachine gun, a shotgun and a handgun. He shot and killed 21 people, injured 19 and then was killed by a police sniper.

Huberty, 41, was described as an angry loner who had lost his job as a welder when the shooting took place.

9. Robb Elementary School shooting - May 24, 2022 - 22 dead, 18 injured

Deranged gunman Salvador Ramos, 18, continued to massacre students while police waiting outside at Robb Elementary School in 2022

The fallout from the shooting saw outrage and investigations as it emerged that armed police who arrived at the school waiting on campus before engaging Ramos

The mass shooting that occurred in Uvalde, Texas, shook the nation as 18-year-old gunman Salvador Ramos drove to the school and opened fire, killing 21 people. He was eventually shot dead by a responding officer.

The fallout from the shooting saw outrage and investigations as it emerged that armed police who arrived at the school waiting on campus before engaging Ramos. As they waited, the deranged gunman continued his massacre.

10. Lewiston, Maine shootings - October 24, 2023 - At least 18 dead

At the time of writing, the person of interest in the Lewiston, Maine, shooting remains at large

The scene on Tuesday night in Maine as police searched for Robert Card

Tuesday's shooting is the most deadly in the US this year.

It's not clear how many have been killed with officials confirming that at least 20 have lost their lives at the two scenes.

Follow for the latest updates here.

11. University of Texas tower shooting - August 1, 1966 - 18 dead, 31 injured

Model student Charles Whitman opened fire on the public from a clock tower at the University of Texas in August 1966

A model student and Eagle Scout who went on to become a Marine sharpshooter, Charles Whitman took to the observation deck atop the Main Building tower at the University of Texas and shot 13 people.

11. Parkland High School shooting - February 14, 2017 - 17 dead, 17 injured

The deadliest high school shooter of all time, Nikolas Cruz, pictured during his trial in 2022

Nikolas Cruz shot and killed 17 students and staff members at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. It surpassed Columbine High School as the deadliest shooting at a high school in U.S. history.

Cruzs attorneys contended during his trial that his birth mothers heavy drinking during pregnancy left him with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, causing brain dysfunctions that led to lifelong episodes of bizarre, erratic and sometimes violent conduct that culminated with the shootings.

13. Fort Hood shooting - November 5, 2009 - 14 dead, 33 injured

Nidal Hasan, an Army psychiatrist,killed 14 people in Fort Hood, Texas, in 2009

Thirteen soldiers and civilians were killed and more than two dozen wounded when a gunman walked into the Soldier Readiness Processing Center at Fort Hood, Texas, and opened fire. The shooter Nidal Hasan, an Army psychiatrist, was convicted on 13 counts of premeditated murder and sentenced to death.

14. San Bernardino terrorist attack - December 2, 2015 - 16 dead, 24 injured

Syed Rizwan Farook, left, and a photo of Tashfeen Malik, the married couple that committed a terrorist massacre in San Bernardino, California in 2015

Syed Rizwan Farook, 28, and Tashfeen Malik, 27, opened fire at a social services center in San Bernardino, California, killing 14 people and wounding more than 20. They fled the scene but died hours later in a shootout with police.

15. Edmond, Oklahoma, post office shooting- August 20, 1986 - 15 dead, 6 injured

Postal worker Patrick Sherrill shot 20 co-workers, killing 14 of them, in Edmond, Oklahoma. He then committed suicide.

Sherill's actions resulted in the worst workplace shooting in US history and the incident gave rise to the phrase 'going postal.' It was later found that he was about to be fired from his job. He was described as a 'mediocre mailman.'

16. Columbine High School shooting - April 12, 1999 - 15 dead, 24 injured

An infamous image showing teenage gunmen Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold in middle of their 1999 massacre in the canteen of Columbine High School

Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold killed 13 people in a meticulously planned attack that involved a firebomb used as a diversion and and stacks of explosives laid around their high school.

The pair shot and killed 12 students and one teacher in an attack that reignited the US gun control policy.

The shooting sparked a huge debate about the influence of heavy metal music, such as Marilyn Manson, and violent video games such as Doom, were having on America's youth.

Investigations discovered that Harris was obsessed by war and that Klebold was an angry social misfit.

The pair's actions led to the anti-gun documentary Bowling for Columbine which highlighted the popularity of guns among Americans.

17. Binghamton, New York - April 3, 2009 - 14 dead, 4 injured

Linh Voong, aka. Jiverly Wong, the gunman who killed 13 people in a rampage at an immigrant community center in April 2009

The deadliest shooting in New York state history saw gunman Jiverly Antares Wong, 41, open fire on people taking a class on American citizenship in the city of Binghamton in the upstate section of the Empire State.

Wong, whose motives were reported to have been the disrespect he suffered due to his poor English skills, took the lives of 13 people.

Neighbours said he was troubled by the break-up of his marriage and told how he hated America.

Records revealed that he had been sued for divorce by a woman, who in July 2005 obtained a restraining order against him.

Last year, he took a job on an assembly line at a factory in Binghamton. His parents own a shabby wooden house in a nearby suburb.

Neighbour, Mahmoon Shafi, 53, said Voong was deeply troubled by the break-up of his marriage.

He was a very nice guy, but he seemed very, very depressed, said Mr Shafi.

18. Camden, New Jersey shooting - September 6, 1949 - 13 dead, 3 injured

Howard Unruh, known as America's first mass shooter, killed 13 people as he walked through his neighborhood in Camden, New Jersey, in 1949. The media dubbed the event the 'Walk of Death.'

After his arrest, Unruh spent the rest of his life in Trenton Psychiatric Hospital after he was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and deemed unfit to face trial for the murders. He died in 2009.

19. Wilkes-Barre shootings - September 25, 1982 - 13 dead, 1 injured

The 1982 Wilkes-Barre shooting remains the deadliest in the history of Pennsylvania. Former prison guard George Banks opened fire on members of his own family, killing seven children, five of his own, as well as their mothers and other relatives.

Banks later confessed to a friend that his motive was that he did not 'to grow up in a white racist world.'

20. Wah mee Seattle shooting - February 18, 1985 - 13 dead, 1 injured

An attempted robbery of a gambling club in Seattle's Chinatown became the deadliest shooting in Washington state history when three men, Kwan Fai 'Willie' Mak, Wai Chiu 'Tony' Ng and Keung Kin 'Benjamin' Ng.

The trio raided that Wah Mee club, tied up, robbed and shot the patrons inside. Police were able to arrive and arrest the gunmen when someone inside was able to alert people who were trying to get into the club.
A British mother is looking for her teenage daughter who has been missing in Turkey for over a week.

Skyler Watkins, 17, went missing in the municipality of Fethiye, a port city in Mugla Province, on Turkey's south-western coast, while on holiday with her family, according to local media.

Her worried mother, Gemma Thorpe, has appealed to the local authorities to help find her daughter.

The police and the gendarmerie confirmed to local media that they are now actively looking for Skyler and have started searches in the area where she disappeared.

Skyler was last seen in Oludeniz, in Hisaronu, a tourist resort in Fethiye, over a week ago, according to local reports.

Skyler Watkins, 17, went missing in the municipality of Fethiye on Turkey's south-western coast, while on holiday with her family, according to local media

A view of Fethiye. Skyler was last seen in Oludeniz, in Hisaronu, a tourist resort in Fethiye, over a week ago, according to local reports

There are currently no other details regarding the circumstances of Skyler's disappearance.

Local media have said that anybody with information about the British tourist's whereabouts should contact the local police.

Fethiye is known for its natural harbour and its clear blue waters.

It is popular with tourists and is a key area of the Turkish Riviera.
A judge took a brutal swipe at Bruce Lehrmann as he lost a legal battle to keep his identity secret in a high-profile rape case.

Police charged the former parliamentary staffer with two counts of rape earlier this year. It is alleged they stem from an incident in Toowoomba back in October 2021. He has not entered a plea to the charges but denies the allegations.

Mr Lehrmann conducted an interview with Channel Seven earlier this year - something which was taken into account by Queensland Supreme Court Judge Peter Applegarth when making his decision to dismiss a non-publication order which protected the accused's identity.

Mr Applegarth said that Mr Lehrmann's decision to take part in the Spotlight interview - as well as other interviews on Sunrise and Sky News - were at odds with his lawyer's claims that media coverage of the new allegations could damage his mental health.

'A cynic might say: "I hope Channel Seven paid him, or his solicitors, a lot of money", for the consequences it had on his application, if nothing else,' Mr Applegarth said in court on Thursday.

The judge added that while being named would 'weigh heavily' on Mr Lehrmann, the 'unfortunate effect on his mental health' was not enough reason to uphold the non-publication order.

Bruce Lehrmann has lost a major legal battle to keep his identity in a high profile rape case protected

Earlier this month a magistrate ordered the non-publication order protecting his identity be revoked but his legal team appealed to the Supreme Court, seeking that decision be quashed.

Media companies opposed the order continuing.

Due to laws in Queensland that initially prevented the identification of people charged with prescribed sexual offences, including rape, Mr Lehrmann's identity could not be revealed when he first faced court in January this year.

That protection was revoked earlier this month after the Queensland state government changed parts of the legislation.

However, before the changes took effect, the man's lawyers successfully applied to the Supreme Court for a non-publication order allowing their client to remain protected.

On October 12, this order was revoked in Toowoomba Magistrates Court, with the man's lawyers signalling they would appeal the decision immediately after.

At the time, the court was told the high profile man was at a 'substantial' risk of self-harming should his identity be published.

But Supreme Court Justice Peter Applegarth said Mr Lehrmann had not established a non-publication order was necessary to protect his mental health, with his evidence failing to 'compel' the Magistrate it should remain in place.

Media companies had pointed to prominent interviews Mr Lehrmann conducted with Channel 7's Spotlight and Sky News Australia.

Media companies had pointed to prominent interviews Mr Lehrmann conducted

It was submitted on behalf of the media entities there was an 'incongruity between the applicant's public presentation and what was said about him by the psychologist.'

Justice Applegarth found the magistrate did consider the evidence from the psychologist in her initial decision.

'Rather than lower his public profile and retreat from the media spotlight, the applicant chose for whatever reason to appear more than once on national television and revisit events that had triggered his mental illness in early 2021,' he said in his judgment.

READ MORE: Bruce Lehrmann is charged with rape Advertisement

'He seemingly felt well enough to engage with sections of the national media, and to deal with any resulting further coverage he received from the media outlets he appeared on and other media that followed up on his high-profile appearances.

Justice Applegarth said Mr Lehrmann had not established the magistrate's decision was unreasonable in the legal sense 'or so unreasonable that no reasonable magistrate could have made that decision'.

During a judicial review on Thursday, the man's defence barrister Andrew Hoare told Brisbane Supreme Court court the magistrate's decision should be quashed and the non-publication order continued.

He said if his client was to be identified, he would be at an increased risk of 'catastrophic' self harm.

Mr Hoare said the sitting Magistrate made an error in determining his client had chosen not to seek medication or see a psychologist.

'The risk is greater if there is not that support in place (or) engagement with health professionals,' he said.

'The use of the term 'That is his choice' imports a type of obligation on the applicant.'

The court was told a forensic psychologist held 'grave concerns' for the high-profile man's mental health.

But Rob Anderson KC, appearing for the media entities, questioned the likelihood of harm to the applicant.

'There is no error of law,' Mr Anderson said of the magistrate's decision.

Justice Applegarth noted any decision regarding non-publication orders would not advance or halt the conduct of any future committal hearing. He said the degree of risk needed to be considered.

'The focus of the hearing seems to be what can one make of the state of the defendant's psychology at the moment and what effective measures are available to him to reduce the identified risk,' he said.

Mr Lehrmann's identity as the high profile man can be revealed after a Supreme Court judicial review and non-publication order was dismissed on Thursday

The alleged rape victim claimed she met Mr Lehrmann on a night out that began when she joined friends at the Powerhouse music venue in Toowoomba.

After drinking with friends, she then went to a strip club called The Vault, where she consumed more alcohol and met Mr Lehrmann.

Mr Lehrmann allegedly introduced himself as 'Bryce', reports News.com.au.

Later, police allege the woman took a taxi with Mr Lehrmann to his friend's house.

They had sex once that night and twice in the morning, but the woman alleges the last two times were not consensual because he allegedly wasn't wearing a condom.

Failing to wear a condom without a partner's permission is considered sexual assault under Queensland law.

Police will allege the woman told Mr Lehrmann she needed a morning-after pill and they drove to a chemist in a farm ute.

Afterwards, she allegedly asked Mr Lehrmann to take her home and he stopped at McDonald's on the way.

Weeks later, the woman was allegedly speaking to a friends mother about the Higgins case when she searched for details on her phone and saw Mr Lehrmann's photo - and recognised him as the same person who allegedly had sex with her.

The woman reported the matter to police the next day before making a formal statement. Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape on January 10. He denies the allegations.

It will be alleged in court that the pair spoke on Snapchat for a few days after the encounter, but soon lost contact.

Police will allege they have CCTV footage from the club showing the pair leaving together, and evidence that the man booked a taxi.
A man is said to be fighting for his life after reportedly setting himself on fire outside a McDonalds in Liverpool.

Emergency services were called to the fast food restaurant in Walton at 5.30am today following reports of a man requiring urgent medical attention for serious burns.

Eyewitnesses speaking to the Liverpool Echo say that the man 'set himself on fire'.

He was taken to hospital where police say he remains in a 'critical' condition; a cordon has been established outside the eatery, behind which police and Merseyside Fire and Rescue vehicles are parked.

Investigators have been seen speaking to McDonalds staff and taking photographs of the scene. The restaurant is currently closed.

Police outside the McDonalds in Walton, Liverpool on Thursday where a man reportedly set himself on fire

Emergency vehicles - including a 4x4 belonging to Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service - sit behind the cordon

Officers behind the cordon at the McDonalds where a man reportedly set himself on fire

Another area of the car park for the drive-through restaurant has been taped off, while a 'scientific support unit' forensics van is parked nearby.

Officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said: 'We received a report of a concern for safety of a man in Walton this morning, Thursday 26 October.

'At around 5.50am it was reported a man, aged in his 40s, needed urgent medical attention for serious burns injuries.

'Emergency services attended and he has been taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition. An investigation is ongoing and a cordon remains in place at the scene.'

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service told the Echo: '[We] attended an incident on Queens Drive, Walton, on the morning of Thursday 26th October.

'Crews were alerted at 5.34am and one fire engine was on scene to assist Merseyside Police at 5.40am. We left the scene at 06.49am.'

A spokesperson for the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust confirmed mercy crews attended, adding: 'We took a man to hospital with serious injuries.'

A McDonalds spokesperson told MailOnline: 'We can confirm that an incident occurred earlier this morning at our Queen's Drive restaurant.

'We are offering support to our restaurant team, and will assist the police in their enquiries.'
A cancer sufferer died following multiple organ failure after he took a herbalist's remedy that included mistletoe.

Retired electrician Haydn Owen Jones had been receiving a third course of treatment for bone marrow cancer when he turned to a herbalist where close to his home in Abergele, Conwy county.

Alongside two chemotherapy drugs and a steroid, the father-of-one started using a remedy which included mistletoe, yarrow and lily of the valley.

And days later he fell ill with a fever, swelling and a rash.

At first Mr Jones was treated for sepsis but he never recovered as his liver function deteriorated.

Coroner Kate Robertson concluded that it was probable the mix of cancer drugs and the alternative therapy proved deadly to him.

Retired electrician Haydn Owen Jones had been receiving a third course of treatment for bone marrow cancer when he turned to a herbalist

Alongside two chemotherapy drugs and a steroid, the father-of-one started using a remedy which included mistletoe, yarrow and lily of the valley

She said it was 'likely a rare reaction occurred resulting in his death'.

Mr Jones had previously beaten cancer twice having been diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2014 - but when it returned a third time he contacted a herbalist for help.

Potentially poisonous elements in remedy Mistletoe may seem festive - but the parasitic plant can be harmful, with the plants, leaves and stems all being toxic. The plant contains Phoratoxin and Viscotoxin - both of which are poisonous when ingested. While a more severe reaction is caused from eating the berries than the leaves, possible symptoms can include nausea, heart problems and fever. Echinacea - which is used in remedies to combat colds - has a risk of causing allergic reactions. This can include life-threatening anaphylactic shock, according to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Yarrow, which is often made into a tea or added to salads, contains the toxin thujone - which is also found in absinthe. It also contains essential oils that cause the death of reproductive cells, as well as bleeding and other complications in the testicles of rodents. Lily of the Valley may look innocent but its flowers and red berries are toxic if eaten. It contains cardiac glycosides which are gastrointestinal irritants which could be harmful or even fatal. Cat's claw can also cause dizziness,, headaches and vomiting if taken in high doses. The tropical vine can stimulate the immune system and may also affect blood pressure and clotting. Advertisement

His oncologist Dr Earnest Heartin told the inquest that he found out about the herbal remedy only when talking to his patient's family.

The mix also included the plants cat's claw and echinacea alongside corn silk.

Mr Heartin said he could not be certain whether it played a part in Mr Jones' death - but he always advises against taking herbal remedies while undergoing chemotherapy.

Ms Robertson said this advice was 'at odds' with a leaflet patients are also given, telling them to check with their doctor if they take alternative remedies.

Charlotte Haig, of Betsi Cadwaladr health board's medicine advice team, said herbal medicines were not well regulated and advised against taking them during chemotherapy.

She said that when herbal and conventional medicines were used together there was potential for 'some of these herbs to have an effect on the liver function'.

She said echinacea could affect enzymes which clear the body of drugs and increase the potential for toxicity.

The coroner called for advice on leaflets given to chemotherapy patients about herbal medicines to be clearer.

Scientists have warned that millions of people could be risking their health by taking herbal remedies and prescription drugs at the same time.

Statins, warfarin and other common drugs can interact with health supplements, producing dangerous side effects or reducing the drugs life- saving powers.

Herbal treatments such as St Johns wort, ginseng and chamomile are taken by an estimated one in four UK adults who buy them, without a prescription, at health food shops or online.

But doctors say that while they are seen as harmless health boosters, if taken alongside powerful medication the combination can be extremely dangerous. They warn of life-threatening adverse drug events, prolonged hospitalisation and loss of life.

Cancer patients have seen their drugs stop working after drinking ginseng energy drinks, transplant patients new kidneys have been rejected after taking chamomile, and people with HIV have seen the virus levels in their blood soar after taking ginkgo supplements.

People who take blood-thinning warfarin drugs for heart problems have been treated for major internal bleeding after using St Johns wort and other herbal medicines such as sage, goji juice or chamomile.

And the millions of people who take cholesterol-busting statins risk severe muscle pain if they drink green tea.

The studys authors, from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa, said the dangers were grossly under-reported because people often did not realise the herbal remedies were to blame.
Plans to deport foreign convicted criminals sooner in a bid to free up prison places risks reducing the deterrent for committing crime, ministers have been warned.

Amid huge pressures on prison capacity, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk wants to speed up the removal of foreign offenders from jail cells.

Foreign criminals can currently be removed up to a year before the end of their sentence.

The Ministry of Justice now wants to bring that forward to 18 months in a move that is hoped will save 70,000 per prisoner.

But, according to The Times, a Lords committee scrutinising the law change - planned to come into effect on 16 January next year - suggested it could lead to an increase in crime committed by foreign criminals.

It also noted how foreign offenders could now be seen as having a reduced punishment compared to British criminals, because they are no longer imprisoned after deportation.

Amid huge pressures on prison capacity, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk wants to speed up the removal of foreign offenders from jail cells

A Lords committee scrutinising the law change - planned to come into effect on 16 January next year - suggested it could lead to an increase in crime committed by foreign criminals

More than 3,100 foreign criminals have already been removed in the year to March, according to the MoJ, but around 10,000 remain locked up in England and Wales.

There are currently serious concerns about overcrowding in British prisons, with around 88,000 people currently incarcerated in England and Wales.

Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd, a member of the Lords committee said: 'The policy could be seen as reducing the punishment of overseas criminals in order to ensure that UK citizens can continue to be sent to prison.

'In addition, the policy risks reducing the deterrents for overseas citizens to commit crime, potentially undermining confidence in the criminal justice system.

'That the department has provided no analysis of these and other operational risks is disappointing and means that it is impossible to assess properly whether the change is appropriate.

'We have suggested that the House may wish to press the Minister on our areas of concern.'

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: 'Thousands of prisoners have already been removed under this scheme which has been running for nearly 20 years.

'Our changes simply mean foreign national offenders who cost the taxpayer 47,000 a year to imprison can be deported earlier and prevented from coming back to the UK.

'They must still serve at least half of the custodial part of their sentence in prison and terrorists, murderers and other criminals serving life sentences are still excluded.'
A gold brooch worth 10,000 which could have been lost by a medieval lord in a sword fight has been found 800 years later - by a metal detectorist in a pea field.

Gintaras Beimavicius found the 13th century jewel - the size of a five-pence coin - when exploring a harvested pea field for valuables in Spalding, Lincs.

The 53-year-old said he broke out into a 'gold dance' and was seen flapping and waving his arms in the field where he found the brooch, which features a tiny white pearl secured by two clasped hands.

Unidentified lettering and four inset flowers can be seen on the circumference of the piece which is in pristine and undamaged condition. There is also a sword-shaped pin through the middle of it.

Experts believe there is only one finer example of this style of brooch that exists and that one is in the British Museum.

Unidentified lettering and four inset flowers can be seen on the circumference of the piece which is in pristine and undamaged condition. There is also a sword-shaped pin through the middle of it and it features a tiny white pearl secured by two clasped hands

Gintaras Beimavicius found the 13th century jewel - the size of a five-pence coin - when exploring a harvested pea field for valuables in Spalding, Lincs, in a rally by Digging History

He said he broke out into a 'gold dance' and was seen flapping and waving his arms in the field

During medieval times there were very strict restrictions on who could wear gold so it is thought this brooch is likely to have belonged to a lord or high-ranking civic official.

One theory is that it could have been lost by the owner during a bloody sword fight.

The brooch is currently with the Lincolnshire finds liaison officer and is being assessed for the British Museum.

They will decide if they want to keep it and pay Mr Beimavicius a reward or return it to him. He will have to split any money from the find 50/50 with the landowner.

Mr Beimavicius was taking part in a rally organised by metal detecting club Digging History UK when he made the stunning discovery in July.

The excited metal detectorist, who is Lithuanian but lives in Grantham and started detecting five years ago, recalled the moment he made his 'best ever find'.

He said: 'It's my real piece of art and is so beautiful.

'When I dug out this beauty, my eyes couldn't believe it. Straight away I understood this wasn't a usual find.

Mr Beimavicius was taking part in a rally organised by metal detecting club Digging History UK

The brooch is currently with the Lincolnshire finds liaison officer and is being assessed

During medieval times there were very strict restrictions on who could wear gold so it is thought this brooch is likely to have belonged to a lord or high-ranking civic official

'I think it's my lifetime find. I just think who was wearing this brooch in medieval times and how significant it was then and is now.

'I believe any museum worth their weight in gold would want such a beauty.'

Julian Evan-Hart, editor of Treasure Hunting magazine, speculated who this brooch could have belonged to 800 years ago.

He said: 'There were restrictions on just who could wear gold back in those times so the brooch most likely belonged to a lord, high-ranking civic official or maybe a member of the King's retinue or royal family.

'I have no idea how the brooch ended up in the field but it's one the beauties of this great hobby - we can try and guess.

'Was it a high-status individual riding a horse and who took a tumble and lost his brooch or was it stolen?

'Was it lost during a sword fight or did his falcon on his leather gauntlet lurch forward flapping its wings and pulling its jessies past the brooch ripping it off?

'Metal detecting has revealed several similar brooches over the decades but nonetheless this is still a very rare artefact - it is unique from the fact there may be similar but not identical examples.

'Any such discovery like this is significant as it is such a high-status artefact'.

Martin Stokes is part of the management team at Digging History UK, the club Mr Beimavicius was with when he made the discovery.

He explained the rarity of the find: 'The find is no doubt in the top two of this style of brooch in the UK, the only better one is in the British Museum and has four gems to it.

'The overall condition is unparalleled.

'There has been several similar brooches unearthed in the past but are all damaged in some way i.e.. bent or with the pin missing, but this piece is the only one to date to be unearthed complete including the gem.

'The find is extremely rare, the first of this quality and the fact it's complete after being in land that's been farmed for 700 years is incredible.

'Digging History UK is proud to be associated with the find.'
Ed Sheeran posed for a selfie with a fan at Miami airport before boarding a British Airways flight to Heathrow which saw a 'drunk' passenger allegedly hurl racist abuse at a member of the cabin crew.

The Metropolitan Police arrested a 46-year-old man when the plane landed in London early on Tuesday morning.

Witnesses claimed that the man appeared to have been drinking heavily and making 'monkey noises' at cabin crew when he was refused alcohol around two hours into the flight.

Ahead of the troubled flight, Sheeran happily posed for a selfie with fan Dan Haughian at the departure gate in Miami.

Ed Sheeran posed for a selfie with Dan Haughian at Miami before the flight

This image shows the moment a 'drunk' passenger allegedly hurled racist abuse at cabin crew staff on the BA flight from Miami to London Heathrow on Monday night

The popstar is not believed to have been near the alleged incident.

Speaking about what later happened on the flight, Mr Haughian, from Manchester, said: 'Everything just descended into chaos - the things this guy was saying and doing were just obscene.

'When they refused to give him any booze, he started making monkey noises and gestures at cabin crew.'

He told the Sun: 'The language coming out of his mouth was worse than you'd hear at a footie match.'

Mr Haughian claimed children witnessed the incident and that a few people shouted 'good riddance' at him as he was led away.

The passenger reportedly had to be restrained by a former police officer and two others on the flight before he was taken to a jump seat, usually reserved for cabin crew. He remained supervised for the remainder of the flight, with the journey continuing as normal to England.

Sheeran in New York in September 2023

File image of an Airbus A319-100. The passenger was arrested after the alleged incident

One passenger claimed: 'There was serious racist abuse to an air steward, as well as threatening behaviour. Many people on board were frightened and distressed.'

A spokesman for the Met Police earlier said: 'At 01:59hrs on Tuesday, October 24, officers at Heathrow Airport received a report that a passenger on a flight arriving from Miami had made racist comments towards other passengers and crew members.

'Officers met the aircraft on arrival and a 46-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. He remains in custody.'

And a spokesman for the Met Police told MailOnline today: 'At 01:59hrs on Tuesday, October 24 officers at Heathrow Airport received a report that a passenger on a flight arriving from Miami had made racist comments towards other passengers and crew members.

'Officers met the aircraft on arrival and a 46-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence.

'He was taken to a west London police station and was later released under investigation pending further enquiries.'

A BA spokesman told MailOnline: 'Disruptive behaviour will never be tolerated on board our aircraft and we will always take the appropriate action.'

MailOnline has contacted Sheeran's representatives for comment.
There are renewed calls for AR-15 rifles to be banned in the US as the weapon is was used by the gunman in Lewiston, Maine, who killed at least 22 people and injured dozens more on Tuesday night.

The weapons have been used in massacres that have horrified the nation, including one that left 10 people dead at a grocery store in Buffalo and another where 19 children and two teachers were shot to death in Uvalde, Texas.

The gun first came to national prominence when it was thought to have been used by deranged gunman Adam Lanza when he massacred 20 children and six teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Connecticut in 2012.

The weapon used by Lanza, was an 'AR-15-style rifle' which was made by Remington known as a Bushmaster.

Since then, activists have used images of the weapon to symbolize the need for gun control, arguing that the assault rifle a weapon of war and that there is no need for members of the public to own them.

Gun violence prevention activist Shannon Watts epitomized the reaction from activists tweeting repeatedly on Tuesday night: 'It's harder to buy Sudafed than an AR-15 in Maine.'

There are renewed calls for AR-15 rifles to be banned in the US

Anti-gun activist Shannon Watts immediately began posting her outrage about gun accessibility in Maine after news of the shooting emerged

Liberal pastor urged his followers to stop voting for Republicans who are against banning assault rifles

Parkland High School student David Hogg called out Rep. Lauren Boebert's call for prayers for Lewiston

In the wake of Tuesday's mass shooting, liberal pastor John Pavlovitz took to Facebook to say: ' The mass shooting in Maine was carried about with the same AR-15 that Republicans in Congress are wearing pins of. If you want to stop gun violence, stop electing Republicans.'

A person left a comment under that post reading: 'And yet another Mass shooting in America  Another AR-15 .22 Dead  More than +60 people hurt/ severely injured  More guns is NOT the answer  Thoughts and Prayers is NOT the answer.'

While liberal lobby group Stand for Better put out a message on X that read: 'Two mass shootings in Lewiston Maine. At least 16 dead. Rest assured Speaker of The House Mike Johnson and The GOP will legislate a national ban on abortion instead of banning the AR-15.'

A Maine resident meanwhile called out Senator Susan Collins after her official account posted a photo of person of interest Robert Card asking for information about the suspect.

The resident chastised the Republican senator for voting against an assault weapons ban.

'Its almost like giving people weapons of war and then putting them on the honor system isnt working,' Shannon Watts later wrote on X.

In response, right-wing activist Laura Loomer alleged that liberal outrage is merely an election strategy. 'Today you can expect Joe Biden and the Democrats to blame the shooting in #Maine last night on conservatives. The Democrats want to make Gun control & abortion their two biggest issues on the ballot going into 2024.

Conspiracy Truths host Cindy Robinson also said that the Democrats were likely to use the shooting to push for a 'gun grab.'

'Maine is completely Democrat and RINO controlled, but Im sure the Feds will find a way to push a gun grab anyway,' she wrote on X.

In April 2023, Washington State became the ninth Democrat-led state to ban the purchase of AR-15 style rifles.

California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Illinois, Delaware and the District of Columbia are the other states with similar bans in place.

Despite California having had a since, the Golden State still ranks as the number one in terms of mass shootings with 26, twice as many the second place Texas, which has no such ban.

Just this week, a federal judge in California overturned the state's ban on assault rifles, calling the ban unconstitutional.

Earlier this year, a group of Republicans controversially wore assault rifle pins on their lapels during a hearing on gun safety on Capitol Hill, those wearing the pins included under-fire Rep. George Santos and Colorad's Lauren Boebert.

Boebert called those hearings a 'political stunt' by Democrats.

Rep. George Santos, who is under indictment for the misuse of campaign funds, wore an assault rifle lapel pin in on Capitol Hill in February

In July 2022, the Committee on Oversight and Reform said some ads mimic popular first-person shooter video games or tout the weapons' military pedigree while others claim the guns will put buyers 'at the top of the testosterone food chain.'

Those sales tactics are 'deeply disturbing, exploitative and reckless,' said Democratic Rep. Carolyn Maloney of New York. 'In short, the gun industry is profiting off the blood of innocent Americans.'

Gun makers, on the other hand, said AR-15-style rifles are responsible for a small portion of gun homicides and the blame must go to the shooters rather than their weapons.

'What we saw in Uvalde, Buffalo and Highland Park was pure evil,' said Marty Daniels, the CEO of Daniel Defense, the company that made the weapon used in the Uvalde shooting. 'The cruelty of the murderers who committed these acts is unfathomable and deeply disturbs me, my family, my employees and millions of Americans across this country.'

However, he added later in testimony before the committee, 'I believe that these murders are local problems that have to be solved locally.'

Gun violence overall spiked in 2020, but recent statistics indicate it is coming down this year in many cities.

Assault weapons as defined by the law are more dangerous than other firearms and are disproportionately used in crimes, mass shootings and against law enforcement, with more resulting casualties, the state attorney general's office argued in 2021, and barring them 'furthers the state's important public safety interests.'
Suella Braverman was today urged to reveal the true cost of housing asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm barge after a Labour estimate put the cost at more than 800 per migrant per night.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick has promised that once the vessel is at full capacity it will be a 'cheaper form of accommodation' than hotels, which are currently costing taxpayers 8million a day.

Yet the Home Office has repeatedly refused to reveal how much it will pay to house asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm - making it impossible to back up the claim with accurate statistics.

Labour has quoted contract documents seen by i News that show the government is leasing the barge for 300,000 per week. As of Tuesday there were 50 people on the barge, Mr Jenrick said - which would equate to 820 per person per night.

The Home Office has pointed out that the barge's full capacity is 504, suggesting that this cost would fall in the future. But today, campaigners urged ministers to publish specific numbers.

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Home Secretary Suella Braverman and Robert Jenrick, the Immigration Minister, leave a Cabinet meeting earlier this week

The Home Office has repeatedly refused to reveal how much it will pay to house asylum seekers on the Bibby Stockholm barge (seen on October 19)

Callum McGoldrick, researcher at the TaxPayers' Alliance, told MailOnline: 'Taxpayers deserve to know the extent of these costs.

'The enormous hotel bill is clearly unsustainable, and the government must find cost effective alternatives.

'If the Bibby Stockholm is exactly that, then ministers can surely publish the price tag.'

Ministers this week announced that small boat migrants will longer be housed in luxury, country house-style hotels once they arrive in Britain and will be moved to cheaper motel-style properties instead .

Mr Jenrick on Tuesday announced plans to move migrants out of 50 hotels by the end of January, increasing to 100 by the end of March.

In August more than 50,000 Channel migrants were in 400 hotels at a cost of 8million a day.

'We are getting the most egregious examples of luxurious hotels off our books first,' a government source said.

'The country manor houses and the stately home-style properties will be the first to go.

'We've been very clear that we can't let this drag on any more. It's been a complete disgrace.'

Last year the Mail reported how migrants were housed at 'Downton Abbey-style' four-star Stoke Rochford Hall, near Grantham in Lincolnshire. It has previously been advertised as a luxury Victorian country mansion.

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A group of asylum seekers carry their luggage onto the Bibby Stockholm last week

The government has vowed to move small boat migrants from luxury hotels, such as the Grosvenor Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

During a parliamentary debate Sir Edward Leigh, a Conservative MP in the county, said the hotel normally charged 400 a night, and described its use by the Home Office as a 'farce'.

Labour came up with its 800 per night. estimate for the cost of housing migrants on the Bibby Stockholm on Tuesday.

READ MORE - Fifty migrant hotels will reopen to the public, says immigration minister Robert Jenrick Advertisement

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Mr Jenrick said the figure was 'completely wrong' adding: 'As soon as it [the barge] is at full capacity, then it will be better value for money than a hotel.'

Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: 'The Conservatives have broken our asylum system and are wasting ever more taxpayers' money on expensive barges and hotels because they've failed to get any grip. Instead of tackling the problem, they just keep making the costs worse.

'Labour has pledged to end all asylum hotel use by clearing the asylum backlog, with more caseworkers and a new Returns Unit, to save the taxpayer 2 billion. The British public want to see strong border security and a properly controlled and fair asylum system, and that's what Labour's plan will deliver.'

A Home Office spokesperson said: 'These figures are inaccurate. The pressure on the asylum system has continued to grow.

'This is why we continue to source new alternative sites and vessels to accommodate migrants as our European neighbours are doing.

'This is more manageable for communities and offers better value for the British taxpayer than expensive hotels. Doing nothing is not an option.'
Video shows the victim being punched, kicked and having her hair pulled out

Two teenagers have admitted assaulting a 15-year-old black girl outside a school in a shocking attack - but denied it was racially motivated.

Both 16-year-old girls, who cannot be named, pleaded guilty to one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm on the pupil outside Thomas Knyvett College in Ashford, Surrey, on February 6.

One defendant is alleged to have repeatedly called the girl a 'monkey' and said they were going to 'rip a dreadlock out of your big fat head' in a Snapchat video of the attack, which went viral. She denies that she was the one making the threats.

The girl also pleaded not guilty to racially aggravated assault and sending a threatening message to the black girl on Snapchat two days before.

The violent footage shows a group of young girls attacking a teenager in the middle of the street on a Monday afternoon

The victim had nine braids ripped from her head during the attack, it has been reported

The other defendant pleaded guilty to assaulting a second teenage girl by beating on the same day.

Appearing at Guildford Youth Court on Wednesday, the two schoolgirls spoke only to confirm their names, dates of birth and addresses before entering their pleas.

Magistrates were shown video of the assault which showed a black pupil being punched, kicked and having her hair pulled while her attackers were egged on by adults.

Prosecutor Amanda Burrows said the teenager who admitted both charges she faced was being 'encouraged to get involved' after she pulled back but was 'certainly involved' at the beginning.

Video showed that the defendant was told 'get on her' and 'that's it, that's it' by an adult.

The attack occurred close to Thomas Knyvett College, which has come under fire for not intervening quickly enough

The second victim said in an impact statement that she saw the same defendant assault the first victim while her co-defendant hit her, kicked her in the neck and pulled her hair out.

The girl also said one defendant dragged her onto the floor and kicked her in the thighs for around five minutes while she was on the floor.

The black pupil did not provide a victim impact statement but pictures shown in court revealed her braided hair had been pulled out at the scalp and her eyes were bruised.

The response of staff led to a backlash and criticism by MPs and a protest was held outside the school two days after the attack happened.

Chairwoman of the bench Sue Hodnett bailed the defendant who admitted all charges until she is sentenced at the same court on November 22.

The other defendant, who was also bailed, will stand trial on a date to be fixed and be sentenced for the offence she admitted later.

The family said to be at the centre of a school race attack in Surrey were later branded 'neighbours from hell' by locals who said they 'gone into hiding' after the assault.

Locals in Stanwell claim they have been plagued by a campaign of intimidation and anti-social behaviour from the family, made up of a mother in her 30s and three daughters, and said local people are 'terrified of them.'

Furious protestors held a rally outside Thomas Knyvett College in Ashford, Surrey, oafter the attack and later marched to the family address less than two miles away in Stanwell.

Raspect Fyahbingh from For Ever Family speaks outside Thomas Knyvett College in Ashford, Surrey, following a 'racist' attack against a black schoolgirl

Eyewitnesses said one angry demonstrator tried to kick down the front door of the property during heated scenes.

One neighbour told MailOnline: 'They really are the neighbours from hell. There are people here who just want to move because they have had enough. They can't take it any more.

'People are terrified of them. We just hope they never come back.'

Locals said the family had not returned to the modern three-bedroom property since the incident.
Labour's Rachel Reeves is at the centre of a row over alleged plagiarism today after 20 unattributed examples of other people's work were found in her new book.

The shadow chancellor admitted 'mistakes' had been made in The Women Who Made Modern Economics after the FT reported its journalists had identified entire paragraphs lifted from other sources without acknowledgement.

It includes includes material from Wikipedia, The Guardian newspaper and remarks made by Labour MP Hilary Benn without attribution.

Basic Books, the publisher, defended the Labour frontbencher, saying she had not sought to present the material as original research but acknowledged that 'factual sentences' were not properly referenced in every instance.

Ms Reeves told the BBC tonight: 'It is true that there were some sentences in the book that were not properly referenced in the bibliography.

'I'm the author of that book, I hold my hands up and say I should've done better.'

Asked if it was because she was too busy, she said: 'Obviously I had research assistants on the book but I take responsibility for everything that is in that book.

'What I wanted to do was to bring together the stories of these women and if I'm guilty of copying and pasting some facts about some amazing women and turning it into a book that gets read, then I'm really proud of that.

'I will put this right because in any future reprints I will make sure that everything is properly referenced in the bibliography, that is important to me and I will put right those mistakes.'

A spokesperson for Ms Reeves had earlier said: 'These were inadvertent mistakes and will be rectified in future reprints.'

But Tory chairman Greg Hands said: 'This is potentially very serious.

'For example, three German cabinet ministers have resigned since 2011 due to plagiarism - plagiarism which was much longer ago than these allegations in today's FT. Rachel Reeves needs to explain herself urgently.'

The shadow chancellor admitted 'inadvertent mistakes' had been made in The Women Who Made Modern Economics after the FT reported its journalists had identified entire paragraphs lifted from other sources without acknowledgement.

It included includes material from Wikipedia, The Guardian newspaper and remarks made by Labour MP Hilary Benn without attribution.

The FT reported more than 20 examples had been found using manual checks rather than plagiarism detection software.

The book by Ms Reeves, who hopes to become the first woman to serve as UK chancellor after a general election expected next year, gives biographical accounts of some of the women whose ideas have shaped modern economics.

A sentence on the relationship between HG Wells and economist Beatrice Webb is exactly the same as one found on Wikipedia: 'He responded by lampooning the couple in his 1911 novel The New Machiavelli as Altiora and Oscar Bailey, a pair of short-sighted, bourgeois manipulators.'

Similarly, a foreword to a report on international development by Mr Benn, published on the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change website, appears to have been lifted almost word for word.

Mr Benn wrote: 'When we were elected in 1997, the amount of aid we gave as a proportion of our national income had halved over the preceding 18 years and was just 0.26 per cent.

'By the time we left office, we were on our way to achieving the 0.7 per cent target.

'This was down to the political leadership of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, who brought the lives of the world's poorest people into the heart of Whitehall.'

Ms Reeves wrote: 'When Labour was elected in 1997, the amount of aid the UK gave as a proportion of our national income had halved over the preceding 18 years and stood at just 0.26 per cent.

'By the end of Labour's time in office, in 2010, we were on our way to achieving the 0.7 per cent target.

'This was down to the political leadership of Blair and Gordon Brown - and their first Secretary of State for International Development from 1997 to 2002, Clare Short, who brought the lives of the world's poorest people into the heart of government.'

The FT also compared a sentence on the website Rethinkingpoverty.org.uk - 'Laurencina was the daughter of a Liverpool merchant, Lawrence Heyworth, whose own family had been weavers at Bacup in Lancashire' - to one on in Ms Reeves' book - 'Lawrencina was the daughter of a Liverpool merchant, Lawrence Heyworth, whose own family had been weavers at Bacup in Lancashire' - in which only the spelling of the name is different.

Basic Books said in a statement: 'There is an extensive and selective bibliography of over 200 books, articles and interviews.

'Where facts are taken from multiple sources, no author would be expected to reference each and every one,' the publisher said in a statement.

'When factual sentences were taken from primary sources, they should have been rewritten and properly referenced.

'We acknowledge this did not happen in every case.

'As always in instances such as these, we will review all sources and ensure any omissions are rectified in future reprints.'
A hospital has said it is taking 'appropriate action' after one of its staff celebrated the Hamas terror attacks on Israel in a series of disturbing social media posts.

Farah Bouamra, a physician associate at St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in London, has apparently supported the kidnapping of Israeli civilians including children by the extremist terror group - and celebrated the torching of the Israeli Embassy, in Jordan.

The British-born NHS staffer, who has Algerian family heritage, also branded Israeli soldiers as 'terrorists' - and advocated the 'flogging' of journalists.

A St George's spokesperson said in response to the remarks: 'We do not condone the personal views of this individual and appropriate action is being taken.

'As a multicultural organisation, we are deeply saddened by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and are supporting our staff  many of whom are directly affected  through this difficult time.'

NHS worker Farah Bouamra (pictured) has celebrated the Hamas terror attacks on Israel in a series of disturbing social media posts

Farah Bouamra, a physician associate at St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, in London , has apparently supported the kidnapping of Israeli civilians including children by the extremist terror group - and celebrated the torching of the Israeli Embassy, in Jordan

Bouamra responded to the Metropolitan Police's comments about the incident in which a tube driver who had apparently incited protesters to chant a slogan said to be anti-semitic: 'You lot are pathetic. How about the police focus on enquiring about their rapist, racist and kidnapping employees. Jobless yats.'

She has also reposted that 'decolonization is always a violent phenomenon' from Wretched of the Earth, a book by philosopher Frantz Fanon - and she hopes the current conflict leads Muslims to 'radicalise'.

Bouamra is active on social media, and also posts on instagram about her career as a physician associate, a role which involves her taking medical histories from patients, performing physical examinations, diagnosing illnesses and seeing patients with long-term chronic conditions.

Although also active on Instagram, it was primarily on her Twitter/X account that she has posted or retweeted a flurry of anti-Israeli comments since the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on 7 October, killing more than 1,400 people and taking more than 220 hostages.

On the 7th she reposted a video of bulldozers ploughing through the Gaza strip separation fence with Israel and celebrating the kidnapping of innocent festival goers and children.

A caption read: 'Palestinians break into separation fence w/Israel, dozens of Israelis captured and brought into Gaza...' and then 'VIVAAAAA' to celebrate this - before they went on to kill 1,400 people including children.

On the same day she reposted 'Free Palestine today tomorrow and forever'.

And in answer to Labour MP David Lammy, the Shadow Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, condemning the Hamas attack, she reposted 'Israel has killed Palestinians indiscriminately for the past seven decades, so when you stand in solidarity with Israel you stand in solidarity with terrorism you stinking idiot.'

In another post she agreed that the Israeli government is behaving 'like war criminalsbeing supported by depraved western leaders.'

On learning of a mob attempting to storm the Israeli Embassy in Jordan, Farah rejoiced in the violence, posting: 'They set the Israeli embassy on fire in Jordan. I love these people so much'.

Bouamra responded to the Metropolitan Police's comments about the incident in which a tube driver who had apparently incited protesters to chant a slogan said to be anti-semitic

On learning of a mob attempting to storm the Israeli Embassy in Jordan, Farah rejoiced in the violence, posting: 'They set the Israeli embassy on fire in Jordan. I love these people so much'

On the 7th she reposted a video of bulldozers ploughing through the Gaza strip separation fence with Israel and celebrating the kidnapping of innocent festival goers and children.

She also said: 'They're bombing the hospitals. Hospitals. If you still consider this a 'conflict' with Israel acting in 'self-defence' and not being actual terrorists at this point, then you can't be described as anything other than soulless' adding 'Also, suck your mums' - a general disrespectful insult.

She also reposted: 'Some of you journalists need to be flogged in the town square toobeaten WELL WELL. he things I have seen this past weekI am speechless'.

Bouamra also claims to have seen babies killed by the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) since she was a child. In a tweet referring to the IDF as the IOF (Israeli Occupation Forces) - a name widely used among Palestinians and pro-Palestinian groups in reference to the Israel Defense Forces, and accompanying a video of Israeli soldiers playing with Palestinian children, she wrote: 'If they're so hehe and goofy, why are they armed with semi-automatics? And why have I been seeing the bodies of Palestinian children at the hands of the IOF since I was a child myself?'

In an interview with a fashion chain aimed at Muslim women, Farah described herself as a British-born Algerian, who is interested in travel, friends and family, and four fur babies! (dogs)

Farah has been a physician associate at St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust since September 2022.

Boumara has not personally responded to a request for comment.
The director of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves has expressed his deep sadness at the felling of the tree at Sycamore Gap comparing his sense of loss to the death of actor Alan Rickman.

Kevin Reynolds, 71, who directed the 1991 adventure tale featuring the star-studded cast of Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman and Alan Rickman, chose Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall as a film location after he visited it as a student.

'I know some people will say you can't compare the death of a tree to the death of a person but I think some things are so iconic, so perfect in their being, that they have a profound effect on people as this does,' he told the BBC.

'So I think that this comparison is justified and I know Alan would agree with it.'

Pictured: Kevin Reynolds, 71, who directed the 1991 film Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Mr Reynolds described Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall as 'one of the most quintessentially idyllic spots in the world and now it's gone, it's murdered, and for what reason?'

Pictured: Scene from Robin Hood: The Prince of Thieves which featured Sycamore gap as a film location in 1991

Pictured: The tree, which was felled by an unknown person on 28 September

The Emmy nominated director described how he was completely blown away when he first saw the tree as a college student visiting the UK.

He said: 'Sycamore Gap on Hadrian's Wall was one of the most quintessentially idyllic spots in the world and now it's gone, it's murdered, and for what reason?

'Would you destroy the Taj Mahal, the Gullfoss Falls in Iceland or the Big Dipper?

'This is the second loss Prince of Thieves has suffered in the last couple of years - Alan Rickman and now this.'

Mr Rickman, who played the Sheriff of Nottingham in the movie, died in 2016 after a battle with cancer.

The tree had stood for over 200 years after it was planted in the 1800s by John Clayton

Pictured: Parts of the tree being removed from Hadrian's Wall. There are ongoing discussions about will be put there in memory of this landmark

Andrew Poad, a manager at the National Trust, said the film changed everything for the protected site: 'When you were walking past or when we were working there, what you would see was parents walking the wall with their children and trying to replicate what they had seen in the film, which was the little boy running up the tree.'

The iconic landmark was chopped down in the early morning on 28 September by an unknown person.

So far the police have arrested two people in connection - former lumberjack Walter Renwick, 69, and a 16-year-old boy - both of whom have been released on bail.

The tree has now been removed from the wall in a final goodbye to its 200 year history.

Despite an ongoing discussion about how best to honour the site and whether it will be possible to regrow the tree from its stump, Mr Reynolds fears nothing can change the damage: 'I guess trying to find a bright side, I am just grateful that we managed to get it on film so that it exists [there] at least, and people can see what it was and how glorious it was.

'But it will never be the same.'
An analyst with a peanut allergy who was sacked from a finance company after taking five days off to recover from a nearly fatal allergic reaction has won a disability discrimination case.

Ope Ajanaku nearly died after he accidentally consumed peanut spice at his brother's wedding and had to take time off to recover, an employment tribunal heard.

After going into anaphylactic shock, he was left 'completely immobile' and had to be taken to a resuscitation ward at hospital.

He claimed that - despite informing his bosses at Cambridge-based finance company Monsas of what had happened - he was hounded for a medical certificate.

The London Central tribunal heard that the analyst refused and he was subject to a disciplinary hearing and then fired without an investigation - leading him to sue for disability discrimination.

The tribunal heard that Ope Ajanaku went into anaphylactic shock and didn't have his EpiPen

Mr Ajanaku is in line to receive compensation at a later date after successfully suing his former employer.

The tribunal heard Mr Ajanaku joined Monsas in August 2021 as a compliance and onboarding analyst.

On April 23, 2022, he nearly died after going into anaphylactic shock at his older brother's wedding in London, where he was best man.

A Nigerian food seasoned with peanut spice - called Suya - was served at the festivities, which he ate at around 10pm

The tribunal heard that shortly after, he went into anaphylactic shock and didn't have his EpiPen.

He had left it in his car and had given his keys to someone else, so Mr Ajanaku told his mother he was having a reaction and she called 999.

READ MORE - The life-saving skill EVERYONE should have: Medical student reveals exactly how to use an EpiPen Advertisement

The tribunal heard how Mr Ajanaku sat down while waiting for the ambulance to arrive and was 'hunched over, trying to get air into his lungs'.

He became 'completely immobile' and when the ambulance arrived 20 minutes later, they gave him oxygen and epinephrine (adrenaline).

Mr Ajanaku was admitted to the resuscitation ward when he arrived at the hospital and given a second dose of epinephrine, along with cortisone.

He was discharged the next day with orders to rest and a five-day treatment course of chlorphenamine, nizatidine, and prednisolone, and two weeks of paracetamol.

The day after he was discharged, Mr Ajanaku followed his company's absence protocol and told his boss about what happened and he would need the week off to recover from the ordeal.

But when he returned to work, chief compliance officer Sally Rigg emailed Mr Ajanaku asking for a medical certificate because he was 'off work for more than three days'.

The tribunal heard that Mr Ajanaku was under the impression, consistent with advice given by ACAS, that if someone is off sick for seven calendar days or less they did not need to provide a fit note or medical evidence. He had been off for five working days.

The tribunal was told Miss Rigg was 'not aware' of the company's sickness policy around self-certification at the time and did not explain to him that they were entitled to ask.

In late night emails, Miss Rigg simply ordered Mr Ajanaku to provide a medical certificate and details of work he undertook before his absence.

In a 10.57pm email, she told Mr Ajanaku: 'You are now on notice, we are taking disciplinary action if you cannot produce the evidence requested by 12pm tomorrow'.

Unaccompanied Mr Ajanaku then had to attend a disciplinary hearing at short notice with senior executives at the company, in breach of the company's own rules.

His previous behaviour and performance was called into question at the meeting and he was sacked.

Managing Director Andrew Herriot, who made the decision to sack him, said Mr Ajanaku's absence would have been fine if it wasn't for him being 'unreliable and shirking work'.

Mr Herriot said the failure to produce the medical certificate was the 'straw that broke the camel's back'.

In his dismissal letter, Mr Ajanaku was told it was 'unacceptable' for him to have 'failed to attend work' during the week he spent in recovery.

The London Central tribunal ruled that 'Mr Ajanaku's absence which arose from his disability of anaphylaxis was a significant part of the reason for his dismissal'.

Employment Judge Tina Elliott said that while it wasn't unreasonable for Monsas to ask for a medical certificate, Mr Ajanaku suffered 'unfavourable treatment' because he wasn't told the company had a right to ask for it and because he was called to the meeting at short notice.

She said: 'Monsas had some doubts about the genuineness of Mr Ajanaku's sickness absence and they wished to investigate this, they wished to maintain a satisfactory level of attendance on his part.

'We find [that] to be a legitimate aim and they needed medical information in order to manage the situation appropriately. It was not disproportionate to seek a medical certificate for this purpose.

'There was no letter setting out the allegations he faced or the possible consequences of the meeting, he was not given time to prepare for the meeting and he was not afforded his right to be accompanied.

'He had no idea that a possible outcome of that meeting might be his dismissal. It was not enough for Ms Rigg to simply say in her email [that] he was now on notice that they were taking disciplinary action.

'We find that had he not been absent, Monsas would not have dismissed him on May 10 for performance reasons, particularly when this had never been addressed with him.

'Was the dismissal a proportionate means of achieving the company's stated legitimate aims? We find that it was not, particularly in the light of the respondent's Handbook.

'They moved to summary dismissal without an investigation, held a hearing at which Mr Ajanaku did not know the charges or possible consequences in advance and he was not given time to prepare or be accompanied if he had wished.'

Compensation for discrimination arising from disability and notice pay will be determined at a later date.

Mr Ajanaku lost other claims of disability discrimination, harassment, victimisation, and unpaid holiday pay.

MailOnline has approached Monsas for comment.
The retired judge behind a controversial 2001 ruling that paved the way for the release of James Bulger's killers has insisted he made the 'right decision' because 'people can reform'.

The two-year-old toddler was kidnapped by Jon Venables and Robert Thompson, both aged 10, from a shopping centre in Bootle, Merseyside, on February 12, 1993. They tortured and murdered him before leaving his mutilated body on a railway line.

The trial judge, Mr Justice Morland, sentenced the pair to detention 'at Her Majesty's Pleasure' - another term for an indeterminate sentence - and set a recommended tariff of eight years, at which point they would have turned 18.

Following a public outcry, Lord Taylor, the Lord Chief Justice, increased the tariff to 10 years. Home Secretary Michael Howard added on a further five years before the decision was quashed by the House of Lords - the UK's highest court at the time.

The decision was then passed to Lord Taylor's successor, Lord Woolf, who in October 2000 reinstated the original eight-year tariff. This enabled Venables and Thompson to be released from the local authority secure home they had been held in.

Asked if regretted the decision, Lord Woolf said on Tuesday: 'No. People can reform. I believe there may be some who are so distorted in their view that they never can be released safely but you could not say that of these two young men, Thompson and Venables. They were very young.'

The retired judge made the comments on The Judges: Power, Politics and the People, a new podcast from the University of Law. The interview coincided with the decision to hold Jon Venables upcoming parole hearing in private, a move that has angered James Bulger's mother, Denise Fergus.

James Bulger (pictured) was snatched from a shopping centre in Bootle, Merseyside, on February 12, 1993

Jon Venables (pictured) will have a private parole hearing next month after requests to hold the proceedings in public were rejected

Although Venables was released with Thompson in 2001, he was recalled to prison twice, in 2010 and 2017, having been found to be in possession of indecent images of children.

Explaining his decision to order the pair's release, Lord Woolf said: 'My feeling was that that [transferring the pair from a council home to a young offender's institution] would serve nobody's purpose, because if they were going to learn, the time had come for them to start showing that they had learned.'

READ MORE - Grieving mother of James Bulger faces 'very worrying time' as killer Jon Venables prepares for parole hearing Advertisement

The retired judge said the boys - who have both been given new identities - 'had their whole life before them and to lock them up for life, when they were kids, would seem to me to be extreme.'

He added: 'The fact is that no sentence I could have lawfully and properly passed would have satisfied [the parents of James Bulger] and no doubt if it had been my child that had been killed, I would have felt as strongly as they did.'

Lord Woolf also suggested public attitudes towards sentencing did not reflect the cost of keeping people in prison.

'I'm afraid the public sometimes doesn't appreciate that if we locked up everybody for as long as they thought we should the country wouldn't be able to afford to keep all those people in prison,' he said.

The Parole Board will meet in secret next month to decide whether Venables can be released from prison following his latest jail term.

James' mother, Denise Fergus, 55, had hoped the hearing would be held in public but Venables' lawyers argued against this, saying it would cause him 'emotional stress'.

Like Venables, Robert Thompson (seen in this police mugshot) has been given a new identity

Lord Woolf's ruling in 2001 enabled Venables and Thompson to be released from the local authority secure home they had been held in

She said she was 'praying' the Parole Board realise Venables is still a danger and order him to remain in jail.

A spokesman for Mrs Fergus said: 'Although we are not surprised, Denise is obviously disappointed by this decision, especially considering Venables has gone on to commit further offences since his first release.

READ MORE - What has happened to Jon Venables and Robert Thompson since James Bulger's murder? Advertisement

'It is crucial to recognise that his previous actions have demonstrated he is not rehabilitated and, as Denise has always said, he poses a great risk to the public and has a clear disregard for the safety of others. The public deserves to know that measures are being taken to protect society from individuals who have shown a propensity for reoffending.'

Confirming the decision to reject applications for a public hearing, Caroline Corby, chairman of the Parole Board, said they had to respect a long-standing legal order that bans the public identification of Venables.

'At the oral hearing, the panel will need to hear about Jon Venables' past, present and future life,' Ms Corby said.

'The panel will need to question witnesses in detail, including Jon Venables, if he is willing to give evidence.

'In order to respect the injunction, substantial parts of the evidence would need to be held in private including evidence which is likely to be fundamental to the decision of the panel.

'If even parts of the hearing were held in public, there is a risk that some information could inadvertently be revealed, putting Jon Venables at risk and breaching the injunction.'

James' mother, Denise Fergus, has she is 'disappointed' that the requests to hold Venables' parole hearing in public were denied

There is also the risk that any staff who supported Venables' release could withdraw from proceedings for fear for their own safety, the Parole Board chief found.

She said that previous court proceedings where he had appeared in public were different because the parole hearing needed to delve into more personal information, including his plans for the future.

Ms Corby concluded: 'It follows that whereas I have deep sympathy for Jon Venables' victims, I do not grant the application for the hearing to be held in public.'

Four applications were made for the hearing to take place in public, including two by journalists.

The three-person parole panel will take evidence from prison officers, probation officers and psychiatrists. Victim impact statements from Mrs Fergus, and James' father Ralph Bulger, 55, will also be read.

Previously Mrs Fergus told the Parole Board: 'If you let him free, you could be ruining the lives of another family like ours.

'When you look at Venables' file just remember what he is capable of. He killed my son James, has reoffended time and time again and I have no doubt he would kill another child if he is released.'

The murder of James (pictured) was one of the most notorious criminal cases in English legal history

Under current rules, Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has the power to ask the Parole Board to reconsider their decision, should they decide to release Venables.

But tougher measures currently going through Parliament, as part of the Victims and Prisoners Bill, will give ministers the power to veto release decisions for the most serious or repeat offenders.

The Bill follows widespread concern about parole panels being too soft following scandals over Black Cab rapist John Worboys and double child-killer Colin Pitchfork.
A Brazilian bodybuilder has died after a horrendous hit and run crash while she was on the back of her boyfriend's motorbike.

Alana Paiva, 21, died from injuries she sustained in the collision, which occurred in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in hospital, after a minibus driver allegedly smashed into the couple and failed to stop.

Local reports claim that Ms Paiva was on the back of her boyfriend's bike at the time of the crash, which was said to have occurred on October 12.

She was taken to hospital and put in an induced coma before she reportedly passed away ten days later.

Alana Paiva, 21 (pictured) died from injuries she sustained in the collision, which occurred in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Local reports claim that Ms Paiva was on the back of her boyfriend's bike at the time of the crash, which was said to have occurred on October 12

Ms Paiva's boyfriend Uilblim, 43, (pictured) is also said to have died just hours after the horror crash in hospital. He is survived by an eight-year-old daughter.

Ms Paiva's bodybuilding exploits saw her earn three podium finishes at the Muscle Contest in Rio de Janeiro in March 2023

In one of her social media posts, she described bodybuilding as a 'wonderful sport, which is not just about winning, but about maintaining discipline every day to surpass yourself each time you step on the stage'.

The minibus allegedly made an illegal turn at a junction, smashing into the pair head-on, causing the handlebars of the bike to come off.

Ms Paiva's boyfriend Uilblim, 43, was apparently lucid and able to talk to emergency services after the bus driver reportedly fled the scene.

Tragically, he is also said to have died just hours after the horror crash in hospital. He is survived by an eight-year-old daughter.

Ms Paiva, who had more than 5,000 followers on Instagram and over 2,500 followers on TikTok, used the platforms to post about her bodybuilding journey.

In one of her social media posts, she described bodybuilding as a 'wonderful sport, which is not just about winning, but about maintaining discipline every day to surpass yourself each time you step on the stage'.

She began bodybuilding aged just 13 because she said she was unhappy with her 'skinny body'.

Her exploits in the sport saw her earn three podium finishes at the Muscle Contest in Rio de Janeiro in March 2023.

Police are currently investigating the incident.
The Metropolitan Police has said 'no offences' have been committed after viewing footage showing Palestine supporters tearing down posters of Israeli kidnap victims in Leicester Square.

The video, filmed on Tuesday night, shows two women and a man ripping down the posters before the man notices he is being filmed, pulls down his cap and walks away.

One of the women, wearing a black coat and a long scarf, is told the posters show 'photos of people kidnapped by terrorists' and is accused of not caring about 'human life'.

The video from Leicester Square, shared by Jewish News editor Richard Ferrer at around 10pm, then cuts to another man walking and ripping off the posters one by one. He turns around and smiles at the camera before walking off.

The Met Police said it had been 'made aware' of the footage and was continuing reassurance patrols in the local area, but added: 'At this time, no offences have been identified.'

There have been a string of similar incidents, with footage from last night showing a man ripping down several posters before screaming 'Israel is a terrorist organisation' when confronted.

Meanwhile, sickening photos emerged of posters that had been defaced with Hitler moustaches and devil horns. One banner on Finchley Road in north London showed the smiling faces of children Emma and Yuli Cunio defaced with toothbrush moustaches. On another poster someone had changed Hamas to 'real men'.

*Do you know the people tearing down the posters? Email rory.tingle@mailonline.co.uk*

The video, filmed on Tuesday night in London 's Leicester Square, shows two women and a man ripping down the posters of Israeli kidnap victims

The video cuts to another man walking and ripping off the posters one by one. He turns and smiles at the camera before walking off

The posters - seen here after being torn down - had been put up to raise awareness of the plight of Hamas kidnap victims

The video shows the moment several people vandalised posters on a London bus stop before a passerby asks: 'Did you just take that poster of an innocent civilian? Stop taking them they're innocent civilians.'

The man shouts back: 'Your government kills children every single day. Do not tell me about Hamas, Israel is a terrorist organisation.'

An elderly woman then intervenes, saying: 'How dare you tear that down. Shut the f*** up you w****r.'

A previous video from Oxford Street showed a woman ripping down a poster of Ariel, a four-year-old boy who was kidnapped from a kibbutz.

Equalities minister Kemi Badenoch yesterday criticised 'odious people ripping down posters of missing children' as she said part of the UK's social contract has been 'breached'.

She told the Commons: 'All our citizens have a right to feel secure and at peace in Britain. One of the reasons why we have been able to integrate people from all over the world is because of an unwritten rule that people with roots elsewhere do not play out foreign conflicts on the streets of this country.

WARNING: VIDEO CONTAINS OFFENSIVE LANGUAGE

The cause of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is Muslim antisemitism. People want to pretend it isnt because theyre either scared or theyre aware or how deep the rot is and feel its insurmountable. The biggest challenge starts somewhere. Name the truthpic.twitter.com/L49QhPgu1u  leekern (@leekern13) October 25, 2023

There have been a string of similar incidents, with footage from Wednesday night showing a man ripping down several posters before screaming 'Israel is a terrorist organisation' when confronted

The man shouts that Israel 'is a terrorist organisation' and says 'Israelis are terrorists'

'We owe a duty of care and civility to our neighbours whatever their ethnicity, religion or background. All of us are free to practice our faiths and celebrate our cultures but we must do so in a positive way, consistent with fundamental values that are the bedrock of Britain. I'm afraid to say that in recent days we have seen that social contract being breached.

'In particular, I believe that the hostility directed towards our Jewish communities, the calls for Jihad, the ostentatious indifference to the victims of terrorism, the aggressive chanting by mobs brandishing placards of hate, and the odious people ripping down posters of missing children, do not reflect our values as a nation.

'We must all stand firm on the boundaries of acceptable behaviour, particularly in the public space that we all share.'

Asked about the footage of the posters being ripped down in Leicester Square, a spokesman for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said he could not comment on specific incidents.

But they added: 'It is right and proper that people want to highlight the hostages that are being held by Hamas and want to make sure the focus of what started this current crisis isn't lost, which is the attack by Hamas on Israel and the fact there are now around 200 hostages in Gaza.

'I think it's right people want to be able to draw attention to that and that's something that is entirely understandable.'

Yesterday sickening photos emerged showing other posters that had been defaced with Hitler moustaches and devil horns. One of the banners showed the smiling faces of Emma and Yuli Cunio which a vandal had defaced with toothbrush moustaches (left)

The posters had been put up on Finchley Road in north London. On one of them (right) someone had changed Hamas to 'real men'

Hamas terrorists massacred 1,400 Israelis on October 7, with many filming themselves shooting civilians on their bodycams.

The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said yesterday that 6,546 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli air strikes.

More footage that emerged on October 20 showed a woman telling people filming her as she tore down banners to 'f*** off' while another said 'go cry'.

The number of anti-Semitic offences in London has soared by more than 1,353 per cent between October 1 and 18 compared to last year, according to Met Police data.

A total of 218 anti-Semitic offences were reported in London between October 1 and 18, compared with 15 during the same period in 2022.

Islamophobic offences during the same period are up 140 per cent, from 42 last year to 101.

This week Dame Maureen Lipman has joined 210 public figures in condemning the surge of anti-Semitism in the UK - as the actress slammed 'bleeding heartless liberals' who fail to criticise attacks on Israel.

The list also includes playwright Sir Tom Stoppard, peer Lord Owen, scientist Professor Richard Dawkins, Countdown presenter Rachel Riley, Tory MP Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, former spy chief Sir Richard Dearlove and author Simon Sebag Montefiore.

They write: 'We are a group of concerned British citizens and residents from a wide range of backgrounds and professions who stand in solidarity with British Jews and condemn all forms of anti-Semitism, whether in Britain or elsewhere.'

A woman on Oxford Street clutching a pile of ripped posters showing the innocents taken hostage by Hamas terrorists in Israel on October 7

The woman said the posters had 'inaccurate' information on them

Criticising the BBC, the signatories say: 'We ask the media, members of all political parties and everyone in public life to call out Hamas for what it is: a terrorist organisation.'

After a group calling itself Artists for Palestine UK, which included actors Steve Coogan and Tilda Swinton, published a letter accusing Israel of war crimes, Dame Maureen said: 'These bleeding heartless liberals care so deeply for the Palestinians that they espouse their cause at the expense of every other oppressed people of the world Shame. Shame. Shame on every one of you.'

READ MORE - Fury as ITV airs interview with British Palestinian woman on Islamophobia in the UK just days after she described the murder of Jews as a 'homecoming' Advertisement

It comes as the immigration minister appeared to suggest that he thought UK visa-holders should be expelled for inciting anti-Semitism even if their conduct falls 'below the criminal standard'.

Robert Jenrick told the Commons that the process of revoking visas and expelling foreign nationals who spread 'hate and division' has already begun 'in a small number of cases'.

Asked on Times Radio whether someone waving a Palestinian flag at a demonstration could see their visa revoked, the minister replied: 'No, we believe in freedom of speech.

'But I disagree with your premise that... somebody who is here as a visitor to the UK has the right to be anti-Semitic, to threaten British communities and can stay unless that is of criminal standard.

'I think there is conduct which is below the criminal standard but which is wrong, [and] would be accepted as wrong by most reasonable people.

'If those people are not British citizens, they are just visitors to our country enjoying the privileges of living here, being among fellow British people, then I'm afraid their visas will be revoked and they should leave the country.'
A woman has been found guilty of assisting the female genital mutilation of a three-year-old British girl during a trip to Kenya, becoming the first person to be convicted in England of committing the crime overseas.

In a landmark case Amina Noor, 39, was convicted by jurors at the Old Bailey this morning of aiding the horrific procedure during a trip to the African country in 2006.

The judgement has been hailed by prosecutors, who said the case 'will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported'.

The court heard that Noor had taken the little girl to a 'clinic' via tuk-tuk where she was asked to wait outside a private house as the child was mutilated.

Her crime only came to light years later in November 2018 when the victim, then 16, told her English teacher what had happened.

When Noor, from Harrow, London, was confronted by police she acted shocked and claimed she had not been 'told the truth' about what would happen to the victim.

She instead argued that she thought the little girl would have been injected or pierced in a procedure known as 'Gudniin' - the Arabic word for circumcision.

But medical experts who examined the child found she had not been simply injected but had suffered severe mutilation of her genitals, which most likely would have caused significant bleeding and extreme pain.

Giving evidence throughout her trial, Noor claimed she was threatened with being 'cursed' and 'disowned' from her community if she did not take part.

In the first conviction of its kind, Amina Noor, 39, has been found guilty at the Old Bailey of assisting a non-UK person to carry out female genital mutilation on a three-year-old British girl during a trip to Kenya in 2006

The law on FGM Female genital mutilation has been a specific offence in the UK since the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985. The 1985 Act was replaced by the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003. It now includes assisting and taking children abroad to be cut. Carrying out FGM currently carries a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. In 2019, the mother of a three-year-old girl became the first person to be found guilty of FGM in the UK. The 37-year-old woman was jailed for 11 years in the landmark case. Advertisement

The case saw the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) working alongside the police and National Crime Agency to prove that during her visit to Kenya, Noor knew some form of FGM was being committed against the victim.

Investigators were able to find that she intentionally assisted with the commission of the offence.

Noor will be sentenced at a later date. She did not react as the Somali interpreter told her the verdict. The maximum sentence she faces is 14 years in jail.

The only other successful prosecution under the FGM Act of 2003 was in 2019 when a Ugandan woman from Walthamstow, east London, was jailed for 11 years for cutting a three-year-old girl.

The 37-year-old woman, who cannot be named, had arranged for the little girl to be pinned down and mutilated in a filthy flat in east London in August 2017. She was jailed for 13 years at the Old Bailey.

It is estimated that 94 per cent of Somali women living in Kenya undergo the horrendous procedure in the mistaken belief that it is a religious requirement.

After the victim told her English teacher what had happened to her when she was an infant, she was taken to a hospital where she was examined.

Noor was born in Somalia but moved to Mombasa in Kenya when she was eight after the outbreak of civil war in Somalia

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino hailed Noor's conviction, saying: 'This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported'

More than 3,000 new FGM cases a year in UK, stats suggest Figures produced by the NHS in 2022 suggested there may be more than 3,000 newly identified victims of FGM in the UK each year. NHS Digital produced stats of cases which were spotted by nurses or doctors around the country. It is thought the majority of cases involved mutilation abroad. The up-to-date figures released last month state that there were 1590 newly identified victims of FGM in the UK between January and June this year. Advertisement

The court heard: 'On 11 January 2019 [the victim] was medically examined by doctors at University College Hospital here in London. It was found that her clitoris had been completely removed.'

Noor was born in Somalia but moved to Mombasa in Kenya when she was eight after the outbreak of civil war. In 2003 she was granted refugee status in the UK before she became a British citizen in 2005.

Prosecutor Deanna Heer, KC, had previously told jurors that Noor flew the victim to Kenya in 2006.

'Whilst they were there, she took [the victim] to the house of a Kenyan woman, where she was subjected to female genital mutilation. That involved the complete removal of her clitoris. At the time, she was just three years of age.'

Giving evidence, Noor had said she feared being 'cursed' if she did not allow the young British girl to have the procedure.

When probed, Noor said the procedure was called 'Sunnah' - an Arabic word meaning 'tradition' or 'way' - and 'Gudniin' - the Somali word for circumcision.

'You will hear expert evidence that 'Sunnah Gudniin' is a particular term which means removal of the clitoris,' Ms Heer said.

Giving evidence Noor, assisted by a Somali interpreter, said she did not know what the words meant at the time.

She claimed she did not know the toddler's clitoris had been removed and that she had been told she only had an injection to withdraw blood.

Noor, who was today convicted by a jury at the Old Bailey in London, will be sentenced at a later date

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy speaking to the press following the conviction

Noor said she took the child to a 'clinic' via tuk-tuk, arriving at a private house where she did not know if the people were doctors. She told police she had to wait outside while the procedure was performed.

Noor said that while the child had cried while it was being carried out she was 'happy and able to run around and play afterwards'.

She claimed it had only taken five minutes and did not pay for it and denied arranging the procedure. She described the clinic as being like a 'living room' with three doors leading to where the girls would have the procedure.

Noor told the court: 'I was told it would take only five minutes, nothing's going to happen just stay out and she will come back out.

What is female genital mutilation (FGM)? Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there's no medical reason for this to be done. It's also known as female circumcision or cutting, and by other terms, such as Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others. FGM is usually carried out on young girls between infancy and the age of 15, most commonly before puberty starts. It's illegal in the UK and is child abuse. It's very painful and can seriously harm the health of women and girls. It can also cause long-term problems with sex, childbirth and mental health. Source: NHS Advertisement

'She said something is going to be done, a drop of blood, it's nothing, nothing wrong is going to happen.

Noor claimed she was told that during the procedure 'nothing much is going to happen to the person, it's just making sure a bit of blood is coming out.' Afterwards the child was in pain while urinating.

Years later when the police told Noor the victim's clitoris had been removed she acted shocked.

'I was lied to. When that lady had told me what was going to be done I was not told the truth,' she said.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino hailed Noor's conviction saying: 'This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about what's actually happened to them.

'It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesn't matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.'

She added: 'Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

'Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, it's often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of what's happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.'

'It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesn't matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted,' she said.

Jaswant Narwal, CPS national lead for honour-based abuse, female genital mutilation and forced marriage, added: 'Female genital mutilation is a form of violence against women and girls, and in the latter case it is child abuse.

'There are many complexities involved in prosecuting this type of offending, which can be committed in close-knit communities, historically, and abroad, but this is no barrier to the CPS prosecuting wherever our legal test is met.

'We are clear there is no place for this unacceptable practice in society. We will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to safeguard and support victims of FGM and bring perpetrators to justice.'

Speaking outside court Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said FGM is a 'serious crime', 'child abuse' and a 'human rights violation'.

In a statement outside court, he said: 'I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

'If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.'

Noor said she did not go to school or have any education.

Noor, of Edgware, north-west London, pleaded not guilty, but was convicted of assisting a non-UK citizen to mutilate the genitals of a girl contrary to the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003.
Turkey's president has vented his fury at Western support for Israel, declaring that the West is ignoring international law in Gaza because the 'blood being spilled is Muslim blood'.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked what more needs to happen for the West to call for a ceasefire, noting that Western countries are providing unconditional support for Israeli attacks instead of calling for restraint.

The Turkish leader launched a scathing attack on Israel, saying its bombardment of Gaza has exceeded self-defence and descended into open 'oppression, brutality, a massacre and barbarism'.

The comments will further inflame tensions after he yesterday declared: 'Hamas is not a terrorist organisation, it is a liberation group, "mujahideen" waging a battle to protect its lands and people' - comments which sparked outrage among Israelis.

His escalating condemnation of Israel and its allies has also seen him raise his concerns with the Pope and cancel a planned trip to the country over what he labelled its 'inhumane' war.

Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan asked what more needs to happen for them to call a ceasefire, noting that western countries are providing unconditional support for Israeli attacks instead of calling for restraint

A victim covered in blood is seen after pulled from under the rubble in the city of Khan Yunis, Gaza where some buildings collapsed or heavily damaged in Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

A view of the area in the city of Khan Yunis, Gaza where some buildings collapsed or heavily damaged in Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

A view of the area in the city of Khan Yunis, Gaza where some buildings collapsed or heavily damaged in Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

Relations between Turkey and Tel Aviv have rapidly soured amid Israel's relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip, where the Hamas-run health authorities say over 7,000 people have now been killed since October 7.

Erdogan raised his anger over the huge Palestinian death toll with Pope Francis earlier today, saying he told the head of the Catholic church that the lack of international condemnation over Israel's strikes on Gaza is 'embarrassing'.

He said Israel's attack on Gaza had 'reached the level of a massacre' and added that 'the international community's silence about what is happening is a shame for humanity'.

The Vatican in turn confirmed the call and said Pope Francis had spoken to the Turkish president about the 'dramatic situation in the Holy Land'. It reaffirmed the Holy See's hope that a two-state solution could be achieved.

Erdogan's incendiary comments came as the UK, US and European Union have reiterated their steadfast support to Israel as it continues to bomb Hamas targets and threatens a ground invasion of Gaza.

Meanwhile Arab countries, including Egypt and the UAE, have asserted their condemnation of what they say is Israel's targeting of civilians and violations of international law in the enclave.

Hamas has warned it will turn Palestinian tragedy into 'joy' should the Israeli Defence Forces launch a ground assault of Gaza in a sinister message delivered today.

Deputy Hamas chief Saleh al-Arouri said that 'despite the enemy's crimes... the resistance is well', adding that Hamas and other Islamist groups 'will turn your tragedies into joy, in the event of a ground invasion' in a statement to Palestinians, suggesting Hamas fighters would inflict huge losses on the IDF.

Al-Arouri declared Hamas was preparing for war, telling Hezbollah-controlled al-Manar TV that 'the battles have not begun yet' ahead of the much-anticipated IDF assault.

He also confirmed that Hamas and the leaders of Hezbollah have been in close contact over preparations for the impending Israeli invasion.

'Our battle is also Hezbollah's battle,' he said. 'If the enemy enters by land, it will be an unprecedented defeat [for Israel].'

A man holds his 3 year-old son who died after the Israeli airstrikes that continues in Gaza City on October 26, 2023

A Palestinian man carries a child casualty at the site of Israeli strikes on houses

Lebanon's Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah (R) meets Jihad Secretary General Ziyad al-Nakhalah (2-L) and deputy leader of Hamas, Sheikh Saleh al-Arouri (1-L) at an unidentified location in this handout image released on October 25, 2023

Israeli armoured vehicles take part in an operation, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, at a location given as the northern Gaza Strip in this image taken from a handout video released October 26, 2023

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in Israeli air raids on October 26, 2023

People carry the bodies of Palestinians killed in the Israeli airstrikes after they were moved from the morgue of Nasser Hospital to be buried at a cemetery in Khan Yunis, Gaza on October 26, 2023

Palestinians wait to collect the bodies of their relatives outside the Nasser hospital, killed in Israeli strikes, in Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip on October 26, 2023

Al-Arouri's warning came as Israeli tanks rolled into northern Gaza overnight in the biggest incursion of the war so far to carry out 'targeted raids' on 'terrorist cells' ahead of a full-scale ground invasion.

The military said ground forces led by the Givati infantry brigade and the 162nd Armored Division attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave in the early hours of Thursday before withdrawing, while warplanes struck more than 250 targets across the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours.

IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari said the operation lasted a few hours and that no Israeli casualties were sustained.

The UN said the number of Israeli strikes meant that 'nowhere in Gaza is safe'.

Israel's battle-hardened prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu last night warned Hamas terrorists in a televised statement that they were 'doomed' as he vowed to push ahead with a ground invasion.

'We are raining hellfire on Hamas. We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning. Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many,' Netanyahu said.

Meanwhile, in a retort to al-Arouri's message, former Israeli defence minister and member of Israel's war cabinet Benny Gantz said that any possible ground offensive would be only 'one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years'.

'The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force. We will not be the ones at risk of being wiped out. That will be the fate of those who seek to do us ill,' he said.

Now Israeli tanks and hundreds of thousands of troops are massing on the border with Gaza awaiting orders.

International pressure is growing to delay any invasion of Gaza, not least because of hostages taken by Hamas. More than half the estimated 220 have foreign passports from 25 different countries, the Israeli government said.

Meanwhile, international observers are imploring the Israeli government to allow further resources into the besieged territory, with more than a million Palestinians displaced from their homes and the flow of aid reduced to a trickle by the blockade.

Netanyahu said the battle against the Hamas murderers who massacred around 1,500 Israeli civilians on October 7 was necessary to 'save our country' and the airstrikes on Gaza were only 'the beginning'.

But questions remain over the exact time-frame for the expected invasion after it was reported that the country was delaying the ground attack to allow the US to rush missile defences to the region.

In a televised address yesterday evening, Netanyahu said: 'We have set over this war two main goals: to do away with Hamas by destroying its military and governmental capabilities, and to do everything within our power to return our hostages back home.

An Israeli Merkava tank is deploy with other armoured vehicles along Israel's border with Gaza on October 24, 2023

Israeli air strikes bombarding Gaza on October 25, 2023

Palestinians search for casualties at the site of Israeli strikes on houses, as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, on October 26, 2023

Palestinians search for casualties at the site of Israeli strikes on houses

Smoke rises from nearby Israeli strikes as seen from a tent camp sheltering displaced Palestinians

Palestinians react at the site of Israeli strikes on houses, as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, on October 26, 2023

A Palestinian man carries a wounded woman after recovering her from the rubble of a destroyed area following Israeli air strikes in Gaza City, on October 25, 2023

Smoke rises from an Israeli airstrike in Rafah, Gaza Strip, on October 26, 2023

Israeli Merkava tanks take part in a military drill near the border with Lebanon in the upper Galilee region of northern Israel on October 26, 2023

'All Hamas militants are doomed. Above the earth, underground, within Gaza and outside of Gaza.'

There are thought to be around 222 hostages, aged from nine months to 85, being held by Hamas in Gaza.

Netanyahu acknowledged that there would need to be 'soul-searching' on how the terrorist group was able to carry out the murderous attack of October 7 without the knowledge of the country's intelligence services.

But he said his role now was to lead Israel to 'all-out victory' over its enemies. He added: 'When we enter Gaza, later on in our fighting, we are going to take the full prize from those terrorists who carried out those atrocities of Hamas.'

Netanyahu said the country's special war cabinet had taken the final decision on when forces would go into the blockaded Palestinian enclave. He said he 'will not tell' how and when the invasion would happen, nor how extensive it would be.

But it was suggested last night that the planned assault was on hold at the request of the White House.

The Pentagon is scrambling to deploy nearly a dozen air-defence systems to protect US troops serving in the Middle East, including in Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, and Syria.

US officials are said to be concerned that terrorist groups across the region would target American troops once the incursion begins, the Wall Street Journal reported.

In Iraq and Syria, there have been at least 13 drone and missile attacks since October 18, which have wounded some two-dozen US personnel. President Joe Biden denied the reports however, telling reporters: 'It's their decision but I did not demand it.'

Israel is also weighing up the need to supply humanitarian aid to civilians inside Gaza, as well as the diplomatic efforts to free more hostages from the clutches of Hamas. A full-scale ground assault threatens to further stoke geopolitical tensions in the region.

On Tuesday, a news agency with links to Iran's Revolutionary Guards said it is 'likely' the Tehran-backed Hezbollah group in Lebanon would become involved in the war with Israel.

During a trip to Cairo yesterday, French president Emmanuel Macron said that a 'massive' ground incursion into Gaza would be a mistake, instead suggesting that the international coalition formed to fight terror group Isis should be resurrected to eradicate Hamas.

More deadly attacks on Gaza on October 25, 2023

Satellite view shows the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza on October 10

Satellite view shows damaged areas in the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, northern Gaza Strip, on October 21, 2023

Satellite view shows the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, northern Gaza Strip, on May 1, 2023

Satellite view shows damaged areas in the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun, due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, northern Gaza Strip, on October 21, 2023

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Jerusalem, on Oct. 24, 2023

Biden warned 'there's no going back to the status quo as it stood on October 6' between Israelis and Palestinians.

Speaking alongside Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese, Biden said he would 'guarantee' Israel had 'what it needs to defend itself against these terrorists'.

Last night Netanyahu vowed to gain the support of the international community for the upcoming invasion. He said: 'We are mobilising the support of world leaders to continue this campaign and many of them understand today what we keep repeating since 2014: Hamas is Isis and Isis is Hamas.

'I am telling them that our war against Hamas is also their war against Hamas... it is a struggle between the axis of evil of Hamas, Hezbollah and Iran and that of progress and freedom.'

Eight Syrian soldiers were killed by Israeli air strikes on southwest Syria yesterday, according to the Syrian state news agency Sana. Israel's military said its jets had struck Syrian army infrastructure and mortar launchers in what it described as a response to rocket launches from Syria toward Israel.

Now, analysts are considering how a ground invasion of Gaza might play out.

Unlike the last Israeli ground invasion of Gaza in 2014, in which some 2,300 Palestinians were killed, this time Hamas has captured more than 200 Israeli soldiers and civilians, who are now almost certainly dispersed throughout an intricate network of tunnels and hiding spots built in the past decade by the militant force.

Hamas has already declared its intention to execute civilian captives one by one if Israel continues its policy of devastating airstrikes on military and civilian targets in the densely populated Gaza Strip.

Besides, Hamas has consolidated its power since the 2014 incursion and its military wing is thought to be tens of thousands strong - and could be supported by Hezbollah - with access to a serious arsenal of weapons provided over many years by Iran.

This means Israel would need to deploy hundreds of thousands of troops if it is to launch a full-scale invasion to wipe out Hamas - and the operation would likely share stark similarities with the bitter urban warfare seen in Mosul and other areas of Iraq.

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel

Israeli tanks head towards the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel

Israel continues to deploy soldiers, tanks and armored vehicles near the Gaza border in Sderot, Israel on October 24, 2023

A picture taken from the southern Israeli city of Sderot on October 26, 2023 shows black smoke billowing over the northern Gaza Strip

A picture taken from the southern Israeli city of Sderot on October 26, 2023 shows flares fired by the Israeli army over the northern Gaza Strip

'At present, it seems likely that Israel is seeking the decisive defeat of Hamas and its military wing al-Qassam. That may result in very protracted and violent fighting,' Cranny-Evans said.

'We are already seeing the first phase of any full-scale ground invasion. Israeli airstrikes are most likely aimed at al-Qassam's leadership, ammunition stockpiles and locations used to house and hide personnel.

'In this way, the IDF is likely seeking to degrade their ability to put up a coordinated resistance once troops move in on the ground.'

He continued: 'The next phase may include movements to encircle the cities in Gaza and establish greater control over the whole area with troops and drones.

'All of this will be accompanied by a build-up of supplies, munitions, medical facilities, food etc. Urban warfare consumes a lot of ammunition and leads to a lot of casualties. So, there will be efforts underway to ensure appropriate stocks in appropriate locations.

'I think we should also expect to see the IDF taking measures against small drones with electronic warfare, as well as gathering signals intelligence on al-Qassam to improve its targeting capabilities.'

However, Hamas has already shown its willingness to engage in particularly brutal warfare, and is also more technologically advanced than previously thought, having demonstrated an ability to deploy aerial munitions via drone and makeshift anti-aircraft munitions.

This means Israeli forces would be in for a particularly bloody fight, Cranny-Evans said, likening the potential conflict to scenes from the most bitter urban fighting amid the Iraq war.

'The tactics employed by the IDF will depend in part on the tactics used by al-Qassam.

'It is likely that drones will be used to drop bombs on Israeli forces, and that improvised explosive devices (IEDs) will be deployed to slow them down. The IDF has experienced these technologies, but they do have the ability to inflict serious casualties.

'So, if al-Qassam has a lot of fighters who are determined to hold their ground, the Israeli forces may be faced with several Mosul-type operations requiring each urban area to be encircled and gradually cleared street-by-street.

'The predominant approach will be to use combined arms tactics where the efforts of armoured formations are coordinated with air power, artillery, and electronic warfare  as well as information warfare  to defeat al-Qassam.'

Cranny-Evans added that Israeli forces could attempt a multi-pronged assault, deploying troops amphibiously into Gaza from the Mediterranean sea, but cautioned that such units would only be lightly armoured and supplied, meaning they would need to be bolstered by other units on the ground or via air support.

'There is a possibility for an amphibious assault, but it would have to be coordinated with the main thrust of operations and serve a useful purpose,' he concluded.

'The forces used for amphibious operations are inherently light  no or little armour available. So, the risk to them when fighting other light infantry is high relative to an armoured formation. Nevertheless, if the IDF feels there are targets worth seizing or engaging on the coast, that are within the capabilities of light and special infantry, it is reasonable to presume that they might try.'

Israel also has advanced technology at its disposal to help its forces fight Hamas.

'The IDF has a developed and capable communications and battle management infrastructure, which will really be key to this operation. It enables commanders to keep tabs on where their units are and understand what enemy forces they have encountered. It also makes communication between units easier, which is a major challenge in urban settings,' Cranny-Evans said.

'The IDF also has other systems like the Fireweaver fire control system, which coordinates sensors and shooters through a central battle management system and uses AI to suggest the best-placed shooter to the commander.

'They have relatively advanced multi-domain capabilities and are well-versed in coordinating air strikes with ground operations.'

More than 7,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of Israel's war on Hamas on October 7, it has been reported.

This total of 7,028 includes 2,913 children, the Hamas-run health ministry said.

The estimated number of Hamas-held captives killed in Gaza due to Israeli strikes is around 50, Hamas's armed wing said via Telegram.

The spokesman for the al-Qassam Brigades, Abu Obeida, failed to provide any further details. The claims have not been independently verified.
Nature has given Californias notorious Death Valley a radical makeover after an unprecedented day of rain turned Americas driest place into a stunning oasis.

The spectacular national park was shut to visitors in August as Hurricane Hilary dumped a years worth of rain onto the parched landscape, destroying roads and turning arid gullies into raging torrents.

Two months later, that 2.2 inches of rain has transformed the lethal landscape into an unrecognizable water world with wading birds foraging on tranquil lakes.

While this number seems low for some of you, it was a lot for us, a National Parks spokesman said in a social-media post as Death Valley reopened this week after the longest closure in its history.

In fact, it was our rainiest day ever.'

 Slide me  The arid salt flats of the Badwater Basin are now covered in a lake of several square miles

Kayaks are needed to traverse the formerly extinct Lake Manly which has sprung back to life

In fact, it was our rainiest day ever,' Death Valley officials said about the impact of the storm

This rain has even more of an impact because the ground here doesnt absorb water like a grassy yard might.

Where rich soils tend to soak up water from even heavy rains, Death Valleys rocky soils and steep mountains shed water and send it downhill. Quickly.

Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level and it now holds a lake of several square miles, nearly two months after the storm that drenched California.

Wildflowers dot the park where a record high temperature of 134 degrees was recorded in July 1913 and where it has topped 130 degrees in each of the last two summers.

The clear, dry air and sparse plant cover allow sunlight to heat the desert surface, a spokesman from the park service explained.

Heat radiates back from the rocks and then becomes trapped in the valley's depths. These moving masses of super heated air blow through the valley, creating extreme high temperatures.

 Slide me  Satellite imagery captures the extent of the sky-blue lake that now fills the Badwater Basin

The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are also now home to a shallow lake in America's driest spot

Park staff were ecstatic about the appearance of their new watery environment

A Mojave Desert Tortoise taking a stroll in his unexpectedly lush surroundings

Hundreds of ponds and pools formed in the immediate aftermath of the devastating storm

There is usually little to see but salt at Badwater Basin, the lowest spot in North America

But some water creatures, including this Pupfish are able to eke out a precarious existence in the park's few isolated damp spots

Hilary brought devastation to many in the state as it cut a path northwards from Mexico's Baja California peninsula,

The first tropical storm to hit Southern California in 84 years left 25million people under flood warnings in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah with peak winds of 145mph and up to 10 inches of rain.

The park had already been hit by another freak storm in 2022 and work to repaired its battered infrastructure is expected to continue for months.

Water has also pooled in the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, but cracks in the mud are now the only remaining evidence of hundreds of ponds and lakes that formed in the days immediately after the storm.

 Slide me  Two months later, the landscape of the valley remains transformed by the storm

The park was closed for two months after Hilary struck in August as repairs got underway

Arid gulleys were turned into raging torrents by the water that poured down the steep slopes

Roads were destroyed by the unprecedented rainfall that cascaded through the park

Tourist attractions were washed out by the heaviest single day's rainfall in the park's history

Work to repair its battered infrastructure is expected to take several more months

Salt formations show the beauty of the desolate spot remains whatever weather hits it

Every so often, there are events that are large enough to break weather records and cause significant damage to historic locations and park infrastructure, the spokesman said.

Ephemeral lakes popped up around the park, which is both pretty rare and amazing.

Lakes in the sand dunes wasnt on our 2023 bingo card.

The natural forces that formed this landscape are still at play.
It is unclear when the pup was born as wildlife officials still need to confirm the pup's existence

841 has been known to be aggressive toward surfers and bitten their boards

The California otter known for attacking surfers in Santa Cruz has become a mother after she was recently spotted with a pup on her belly.

The mother, known as Sea Otter 841, was spotted far off the coast on Wednesday as she rolled around in the waves with her new baby.

Photographer Mark Woodward, one of the otter's biggest fans, shared special moments of 841 with her pup.

The mama otter is infamous for attacking surfers, biting their boards and evading wildlife officials.

Photographer Mark Woodward captured 841 on her back as her new pup laid on her belly (pictured). The mama otter is infamous for attacking surfers, biting their boards and evading wildlife officials

Woodward noted that sea otter mothers have to leave their child on the surface of the ocean while they dive in and hunt for food like shellfish

It is unclear exactly when 841 had her pup, but some suspect that hormones from her pregnancy may have made her aggressive toward swimmers in the ocean

Though the birth of her pup has yet to be confirmed by state and federal wildlife authorities, her vicious behavior in the past might be credited to her pregnancy.

A spokeswoman for the US Fish and Wildlife Service said that they plan to send someone out to the area on Thursday to confirm the pup's existence.

The gestational period for sea otters is known to last longer than that of other otters and can range between four to twelve months.

Communications team leader for the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, Ashley McConnell told LA Times: 'Hormonal surges related to pregnancy have been known to cause aggressive behavior in female southern sea otters. There are currently no plans to attempt capture.'

Previous footage of the otter in June showed her latching onto a surfboard and beginning to tug it away deeper into the ocean

In the clip, the surfer rushes after the otter and becomes enveloped in a full-blown water fight, splashing water at the mammal to try and get her to leave

The interaction prompted a series of hilarious reactions online from the June encounter with otter 841

'The otters have joined the war,' one person wrote, referencing the internet implying that orcas have waged a war on vessels in their home waters

Otter 841 has given birth twice before this, as her first pup survived and the second one did not.

Joon Lee, an Apple software engineer from San Jose, has developed a fear of otters, also known as lutraphobia ever since 841 attacked his surfboard in July.

Lee said that while the news of the otter's new baby is 'amazing' he still wants to make sure that she has calmed down before he revisits the water.

Wildlife officials deemed 841 a 'public safety hazard' for her reported attacks.

Kevin Connor, a spokesman for the Monterey Bay Aquarium told SF Gate that Sea Otter 841 was originally born in captivity and 'raised not to form positive relationships with people.'

More 841+1 photos. She leaves the pup on the surface as she dives for food. I love the one of her smiling and seeming to show off her little pup. Ill be back there tomorrow hoping she comes a little closer to shore for better photo ops. And yes, I do feel like a proud papa  pic.twitter.com/faNKDFkfLx  Native Santa Cruz (@NativeSantaCruz) October 25, 2023

The previous plan was to safely capture and relocate her to a wildlife facility, but 841 managed to escape each time. Now they plan to leave her be as she spends time with her pup.

Woodward, who has documented the otter's adventures since June noted that sea otter mothers have to leave their child on the surface of the ocean while they dive in and hunt for food like shellfish.

Different from freshwater otters, sea otters are known to give birth in the water. Once the pup is born they are then carried and nursed on their mother's belly.

Like many relationships between a mother and her kids, female otters are known to aggressively defend their offspring against anyone they consider to be an intruder.

Sea otter 841 (pictured) was caught stealing a man's surfboard from him in Santa Cruz back in June

841 in the 831: Surfboard-stealing otter of Santa Cruz appears with tiny pup https://t.co/Cr07LZMYUF  EthanBaron (@ethanbaron) October 25, 2023

The otter appeared unfazed and even repeatedly mounted the board until the clip ends without showing how the situation between the pair was resolved

Sea otter pups are known to start swimming and eating solid foods after about four weeks, and start to dive around 6 weeks.

They are also know to be highly dependent on their mothers for an average of six months.

McConnell said: 'Feeding and caring for a pup requires significant energy reserves,' and that an average adult sea otter had to forge and eat 20 to 30 percent of its body mass in order to meet those energy requirements.

Woodward and Dustin Mulvaney, a professor of Environmental Studies at San Jose State University have named the new pup 'Otter 841+1'.

Woodward said in an X post: 'A request to keep 841 and her pup safe. We can not have a repeat of the 841 madness with people trying to get close to her. No one should us a kayak, paddle board or anything else to get close to them.

'This is a critical time for 841 and pup, observe them from the cliffs only!'

The date of the pup's birth is unknown, but the baby's mother is five-years-old. Woodward also said that he suspected she might've been pregnant 'due to her increased belly size'.

Sea Otter 841 has become so popular in the area that back in August, she had an ice-cream flavor named after her at Marianne's Ice Cream in Santa Cruz.

Otter 841 is so well known in the Santa Cruz area that merchandise like shirts, jackets, sticker and mugs have been made in her honor

Marianne's Ice Cream- a local shop in Santa Cruz dedicated an ice cream flavor to the infamous otter (pictured)

Now that 841 has had a baby, wildlife personnel have said that they plan to leave her be and will not attempt to capture her so she can bond with her pup

The date of the pup's birth is unknown, but the baby's mother is five-years-old. Woodward also said that he suspected she might've been pregnant 'due to her increased belly size'

Otter 841 has given birth twice before this as her first pup survived and the second one did not. Some think that she acted aggressively because she was pregnant in recent months

The flavor is made of cinnamon caramel ice-cream with hints of snickerdoodle dough chunks.

The ice-cream shop has said that the Otter 841 flavor is inspired by her personality- 'cute, sweet, and local, with a bit of a bite.'

A portion of the proceeds raised for the flavor is set to be donated to a 'bail fund' for ocean conservation efforts.

Merchandise like shirts, jackets and mugs have also been created with the mama otter's face on it.

Previous footage of the otter shows her hijacking a surfboard while its owner is away swimming.

The one-minute video starts by showing the otter latching onto the board and beginning to tug it away deeper into the ocean.

In the clip, the surfer rushes after the otter and becomes enveloped in a full-blown water fight, splashing water at the mammal to try and get him to leave.

The otter appears unfazed and even repeatedly mounts the board until the clip ends without showing how the situation between the pair was resolved.
The tropical paradise of Acapulco is reeling as Category 5 Hurricane Otis unleashes massive floods and widespread destruction, killing 27 people in its wake.

At least four people, including three military personnel, were still missing as of Thursday morning, a day after the powerful storm made landfall with maximum sustained winds of 165 miles per hour - making it the strongest on record for a landfalling Eastern Pacific tropical cyclone.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador toured an area of the battered vacation resort city and said that Otis toppled every power-line pole in the zone, leaving most of the city's one million residents without electricity.

'The people sheltered, protected themselves and that's why fortunately there weren't more tragedies, loss of human life,' Lopez Obrador.

Lopez Obrador said Hurricane Otis caused Acapulco's municipal water system to be shut down and that the main focus would be to restore power to at least 500,000 homes that were left without electricity.

One victim is a solider who died after a wall inside his home collapsed on him, the president said.

Residents in Acapulco, the resort city in the Mexican Pacific coast state of Guerrero, awoke Thursday to survey the destruction left behind by Hurricane Otis, which made landfall Wednesday as a category 5 storm. At least 27 people have been confirmed death and four others are missing

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador looks out of the window as his vehicle is stuck in mud near Acapulco on Thursday, a day after the passage of Hurricane Otis in the Pacific coast state of Guerrero

A woman walks away with stuff she looted from a furniture store after Hurricane Otis unleashed chaos in the city

Rescue workers and the army have scrambled to clear up the battered vacation resort city of 1million people after Otis brought maximum sustained winds of 160 miles per hour

The disastrous weather front was centered about 55 miles south-southeast of Acapulco and moving north-northwest at 9 mph

The disastrous weather front was centered about 55 miles south-southeast of Acapulco, and its ruinous effects were also moving north-northwest at 9 mph.

Acapulco descended into devastating chaos, leaving residents without electricity or internet service - and the true toll of the disaster still remains uncertain.

The early images and accounts were of extensive devastation, toppled trees and power lines lying in brown floodwaters that extended for miles.

Resulting destruction delayed a comprehensive response by the government, which was still assessing the damage along Mexico's Pacific coast, and made residents desperate.

Many of the once-sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks a day after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds - and possibly thousands - of windows.

While some 10,000 military troops were deployed to the area, they lacked the tools to clean tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets.

The tropical paradise of Acapulco is still reeling after Category 5 Hurricane Otis hit the city - unleashing massive floods and widespread destruction and killing 27 residents. Parts of a fallen building are seen here spewed across the street

Many of the once-sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks a day after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds - and possibly thousands - of windows

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco early Wednesday, but seemed at a loss as to how to restore power.

Forecasters and meteorologists are baffled at how they did not see Otis' catastrophic path coming. The city was warned it would just be a tropical storm, but the usually-reliable computer models failed to predict its explosive intensification.

'It's one thing to have a Category 5 hurricane make landfall somewhere when you're expecting it,' University of Miami hurricane researcher Brian McNoldy said. 'But to have it happen when you're not expecting anything to happen is truly a nightmare.'

MIT atmospheric sciences professor and hurricane expert Kerry Emanuel said that 'the models completely blew it.'

McNoldy said there may be a mystery ingredient that scientists just don't know right now, but water is key.

A woman holds a baby next to some looted goods after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, on Wednesday

People wait outside an hotel after Hurricane Otis hit Acapulco in the Mexican state of Guerrero

Warm water is fuel for hurricanes. Hot, deep water is like an all-you-can-eat buffet.

Globally, the worlds oceans have been setting monthly surface heat records since April. The surface waters off the Mexican coast were warm but 'not crazy warm,' said University at Albany atmospheric scientist Kristen Corbosiero. Bennan and McNoldy said those waters were maybe 1 or 2 degrees above normal.

Below that, the water was much hotter than usual 'and there's just a ton of fuel out there right now,' McNoldy said. Still, the storm didn't linger and feed on that, which would be expected in rapid intensification, Brennan said.

The heat content in the deeper ocean worldwide has been smashing records. It's from human-caused climate change, McNoldy and other scientists said, as the oceans act as a sponge to absorb a lot of the excess heat caused by the burning of coal, oil and gas.

Jakob Sauczuk was staying with a group of friends at a beachfront hotel when Otis hit. 'We laid down on the floor, and some between beds,' Sauczuk said. 'We prayed a lot.'

One of his friends took photos of the windowless, shattered rooms in the hotel.

Sauczuk complained his group was given no warning, or offered safer shelter by the hotel.

Pablo Navarro, an auto parts worker who was lodged in temporary accommodations at a beachfront hotel, thought he might die in his 13th story hotel room.

'I took shelter in the bathroom, and thankfully the door held,' said Navarro. 'But there were some room where the wind blew out the windows and the doors.'

People loot a grocery store after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico

People wait outside a hotel after the chaos caused by the hurricane

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco early Wednesday, but seemed at a loss as to how to restore power, with downed electricity lines lying in feet of mud and water

One home's foundations gave way during the calamitous storm

Part of a main road is washed away and destroyed in the high storms

Navarro stood Wednesday outside a discount grocery and household goods store near the hotel zone, as hundreds of people wrestled everything from packs of hot dogs and toilet paper to flat screen TVs out of the muddy store, struggling to push loaded metal shopping carts onto the mud-choked streets outside.

'This is out of control,' he said.

Isabel de la Cruz, a resident of Acapulco, tried to move a shopping cart loaded with diapers, instant noodles and toilet paper through the mud.

She viewed what she took as a chance to help her family after she lost the tin roof of her home and her familys important documents in the hurricane.

'When is the government ever going to look after the common people?' she said.

Inside one store, National Guard officers allowed looters to take perishable items like food, but made futile efforts to prevent people from taking appliances, even as people outside loaded refrigerators on top of taxis.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City.

While some 10,000 military troops were deployed to the area, they lacked the tools to clean tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets

A vehicle sits damaged by a traffic sign following the disastrous hurricane

People walk with goods looted from a shopping mall after Hurricane Otis destroyed the vicinity

Obrador and members of his cabinet walk on the mud as they visit the El Kilometro 42 community

The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulcos commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights.

Acapulco's Diamond Zone, an oceanfront area replete with hotels, restaurants and other tourist attractions, looked to be mostly underwater in drone footage that Foro TV posted online Wednesday afternoon, with boulevards and bridges completely hidden by an enormous lake of brown water.

Large buildings had their walls and roofs partially or completely ripped off.

Dislodged solar panels, cars and debris littered the lobby of one severely damaged hotel.

People wandered up to their waists in water in some areas, while on other less-flooded streets soldiers shoveled rubble and fallen palm fronds from the pavement.

On Wednesday night the city plunged into darkness. There was no phone service, but some people were able to use satellite phones loaned by the Red Cross to let family members know they were alive.

Alicia Galindo, a 28-year-old stylist in the central Mexican city of San Luis Potosi, was one of the lucky ones to get such a call.

Her parents and brother were staying in Acapulcos Hotel Princess for an international mining conference when Otis hit early Wednesday with 165 mph winds.

After Hurricane Otis made landfall in Acapulco. pic.twitter.com/YbKeGaDTRQ  KASIDE (@zakkumec) October 26, 2023

Broken glass is spewed all over the streets following the violent weather front

A looter carries a shopping cart full of goods stolen from a supermarket after the passage of Hurricane Otis in Acapulco

A view shows damage after Hurricane Otis hit, in Acapulco in the Mexican state of Guerrero

People gather outside an hotel after Hurricane Otis hit Acapulco. The city is still reeling from the effects of the destructive weather front

Windows and balconies are blown out of a luxury high rise building in the chaos

A car is damaged by falling debris in the wake of Hurricane Otis

People wait outside an hotel after Hurricane Otis hit

A Mexican National Guard soldier tries to stop looting in a shopping mall

People wait outside their cars as they wait for repair crews to unclog the roads after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco

A woman holds a bay next to some looted goods in Acapulco, Mexico

They told her the worst part of the storm was between 1am and 3am when 'windows began to fall, floors broke up, mattresses flew, hallways collapsed, doors fell down ... until everything was gone,' she said. Fortunately, they escaped unhurt, she said.

However, Galindo had yet to hear from her boyfriend, who was attending the same conference but staying in a different hotel.

On Tuesday, Otis took many by surprise when it rapidly strengthened from a tropical storm to a powerful Category 5 as it tore along the coast.

Acapulco, Tecpan and other towns along the Costa Grande in Guerrero were hit hard, according to Lopez Obrador. He said conditions were so bad that communication with the area had been 'completely lost.'

Later Wednesday, Milenio TV circulated photos of Lopez Obrador trying to make it to Acapulco by ground, in some places getting out to walk. It was not immediately clear if he made it.

Acapulco is at the foot of steep mountains - where luxury homes and slums alike cover the hillsides with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Once drawing Hollywood stars for its nightlife, sport fishing and cliff diving shows, the port has in recent years fallen victim to competing organized crime groups that have sunk the city into violence.

This has in turn driven many international tourists to the Caribbean waters of Cancun and the Riviera Maya or beaches farther down the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca.

Lopez Obrador noted that Otis was a stronger hurricane than Pauline, which hit Acapulco in 1997, destroying swaths of the city and killing more than 300 people.
A mother accused of cruelty towards her baby son who was allegedly murdered by her 16-year-old partner has been pictured for the first time today as she appeared in court.

India Shemwell, now 22, is charged with two offences of cruelty to four-month-old Elijah Shemwell between December 31, 2021 and January 2, 2022.

Elijah was found in cardiac arrest at an address in Belper, Derbyshire on January 2, 2022, and died three days later in hospital.

Appearing at Southern Derbyshire Magistrates' Court in Derby today, Shemwell made no indication of a plea to charges of assault, ill-treatment, neglect or abandonment of a child or young person causing unnecessary suffering or injury.

Prosecutor Lynette Holland said: 'There is a co-accused in this matter, Mr (Carl) Alesbrook, who has been charged with murder of the child.

India Shemwell, 22, is charged with two offences of cruelty to four-month-old Elijah Shemwell

Elijah was found in cardiac arrest at an address in Belper, Derbyshire, on January 2, 2022

'These matters are before the crown court and there is a plea and trial preparation hearing currently listed for December 8 and this matter is linked with that matter.

'I would suggest this matter is not suitable for a summary trial.'

Shemwell, who spoke only to confirm her details, wore a black jacket and dress. Her solicitor, Nick Wenden, made no representations.

She was instructed by magistrates to appear at the city's crown court on December 8 alongside former partner Alesbrook.

Derbyshire police at the home in Belper in 2022

Alesbrook, 18, of Matlock, is also charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm without intent and inflicting GBH with intent, all between November 18, 2021 and January 2, 2022, when he was aged 16.

At his last court appearance at Derby Crown Court in September, he was told he would face trial on April 10 next year.

Shemwell was granted bail with conditions not to contact Alesbrook, not to enter Belper, that she must live and sleep at her address in Derby, not to contact any prosecution witnesses and to have no unsupervised contact with a child under the age of 16.
A Jewish writer and executive audio producer at The Free Press wrote in a recently published article that she was shocked to see a video of a former college classmate and friend of hers tearing down posters of kidnapped Israeli children.

Candace Mittel Kahn wrote earlier this week that as she scrolled Instagram, watching videos of antisemites around the country tearing down posters of kidnapped Israeli victims, she came across a video of one such individual in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

The woman, she writes, is scraping down the remainder of a hostage poster, while saying aloud the word 'calba,' the Arabic word for dog.

She then turns to look directly into the camera of the person filming her and says, 'F*** you. F*** you. And burn in hell.'

After hearing the woman's voice, Kahn realized, to her horror, that she knew the vandal.

'Sarah - who Ive since learned from the internet seems to go by the name Lucky and prefers they/them pronouns - and I went to college together at Northwestern,' Kahn wrote.

Candace Mittel Kahn was shaken that her former college friend is now an individual walking around Brooklyn tearing down kidnapped signs for Israeli children

She continued: 'We werent close friends, but we performed in a show we wrote together along with five other women, and we were friendly enough to have hung out more than a few times.

'We even have a handful of pictures together on Facebook from 2011 (which I dug up in order to prove to myself that this was the same person). In more than one photo we are side by side, arms wrapped around each other, smiling.'

Now, this woman is walking around New York City, tearing down pictures of Israeli children being held hostage by terrorists - a reality that rattled the writer, herself a mother of two Jewish children.

'I havent talked to Sarah in twelve years. I dont know how she went from the girl I performed with at Kresge Hall, ranting about feminism and consent - typical college-aged defiance and edge - to standing on a street corner, tearing apart pictures of kidnapped Israelis and flinging them to the ground like a dirty tissue,' she wrote.

Sarah, whose full name is Sarah Daoud, is a self-described prison abolitionist, therapist, social worker, sexual assault crisis counselor, teaching artist, resource advocate, and performer in participatory educational theatre.

She received a master's degree in social work from the University of Chicago and advertises herself as an individual working to better her community through 'internal, interpersonal, and systems change.'

She also writes that she is 'dedicated to supporting queer and trans youth as they learn to love themselves, radically and unapologetically, and gain a healthier understanding of their resilience and power.'

Mittel wrote: 'It is painfully ironic that the one thing you dont need an advanced degree or elitist jargon for - you know, standing against the kidnapping of innocent children - is the one thing this "queer, gender-fluid femme of color," as she labels herself, is utterly unable to grasp.'

'Ive watched the video over a dozen times. It is unbearable to think that I was friends with this person.'

Sarah Daoud is a social worker focused on LGBTQ youth, she is of Palestinian descent and was caught on camera tearing down posters of Israeli hostages in Brooklyn, 12 years after attending Northwestern with the writer of the Free Press piece

Sarah Daoud (L) was filmed tearing down pictures of Israeli hostages in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. She muttered the word 'calba' - Arabic for dog - as she did so

Pictures of the kidnapped Israelis have been hung around major cities - many of them have been torn down

The Jewish community, and others, across the world have been praying for the safe return of the 200+ hostages taken by Hamas terrorists

Two female students were spotted taking down posters of Israeli children who have been taken hostage by Hamas on October 17

Mittel wrote that she reached out to Daoud over text to remind her that the people on the posters she tore down are 'real people and real children.'

'On the other side of those posters are are real mothers and real fathers and real brothers and real sisters who are living in agony waiting for any sign that their loved ones are alive.'

According to Mittel, she did not respond.

Daoud's poster meltdown was the latest in a string of similar incidents in the city. On the Upper East Side, a man sparked outrage by also pulling down posters and asking: 'Where are the Palestinians?'

In a more recent incident in Brooklyn, a Jewish woman approached a couple who were tearing down posters in Brooklyn Bridge Park.

'These are American citizens,' the Jewish woman yelled at the couple, who stood saying nothing.

Eventually, the man started to laugh and said: 'We don't consent to you recording us.'

They then walked away.

On October 17, two young women were caught tearing down posters at NYU's Tisch Hall.

They stripped clean a wall where students had plastered the faces of some of the hundreds of hostages taken by Hamas and ran off with the posters in their arms.
The owners of a Colorado welding company were overjoyed to win their legal case over an unpaid bill but were left shocked by the unusual manner of payment.

The defendant company, JMF Enterprises, owned by John Frank, opted to pay the $23,500 settlement in quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies, lawyers claim.

Attorneys for the victorious welding business, Fired Up Company, said the delivery of more than three tones of coins on a flatbed truck was 'malicious' and 'a major F- U.'

'It's funny, as long as it's not happening to you,' Fired Up Company lawyer Danielle Beem said.

Now, a judge will decide if the coin payment is a legitimate method - or if more sense, and reasonable form of payment, is needed.

The defendant company, JMF Enterprises owned by John Frank (pictured) opted to pay the $23,500 in quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies

The business dispute came about after JMF Enterprises hired Fired Up Fabrication as a subcontractor to do welding work on an apartment building, according to legal documents.

Fired Up Fabrication subsequently filed a civil lawsuit against JMF alleging it was not paid in full.

In July, the two sides went to mediation, and JMF agreed to pay the subcontractor $23,500.

Beem told CBS News she received a call six weeks ago when the driver of a flatbed truck delivered the settlement at her officers.

The driver told Beem the delivery was 'full of a mix of loose coins' and would require a forklift to move.

Beem said she couldn't accept the coins as the freight elevator in her century-old downtown Denver office building couldn't carry more than 3,000 pounds.

'Even if I wanted to take this box of coins, I had no way of doing so,' she explained.

'I think the thought was my clients would have to accept it and it's a giant waste of time and a major F-U,' she added.

Attorney Danielle Beem told CBS News she received a call six weeks ago when the driver of a flatbed truck delivered the settlement at her officers

The coins delivered to her office weighed three tons, but JMF Enterprises insisted the delivery was a legitimate form of payment

The attorney said she couldn't accept the coins as the freight elevator in her century-old downtown Denver office building couldn't carry more than 3,000 pounds

Attorneys for JMF insist the means of payment is legitimate and merely an attempt to fulfill the settlement.

'The coins, being current coin of the realm, constituted a tender of the settlement funds, and therefore, JMF has complied with the terms of the agreement,' JMF attorneys wrote in court filings.

'The settlement agreement did not outline any specific form for the payment.'

A Colorado judge is currently weighing a request from Fired Up Fabrication for a more reasonable form of payment.
The body of a victim in the Maine shooting which killed at least 18 people has been wheeled out of a bar targeted by the gunman - as cops fear he may have crossed into Massachusetts with a 'nightscope'.

Survivors and bereaved family members have begun speaking out following the bloody massacre at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, the state's second city.

Police have named previously-sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, as the suspect. Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting.

The rampage has left at least 18 people dead and 13 more injured, meaning it is believed to be the deadliest mass shooting of 2023. The shooting is the 34th mass killing involving more than four victims in the US this year. Seven of those killed at the bowling alley. Eight were found at Schemengees bar and three others later died in hospital.

Audio from police dispatchers suggested that the suspect may have crossed the border to Massachusetts, but Massachusetts State Police have said that claim is unsubstantiated.

The body of a victim in the Maine massacre shooting which killed at least 18 people has been wheeled out of the bar targeted by the gunman - as cops fear he may have crossed into Massachusetts with a 'nightscope'

Survivors and bereaved family members have begun speaking out following the bloody massacre at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, the state's second city

The rampage has left at least 18 people dead and 13 more injured. Officials were seen wheeling a body bag out of Schemengees on Thursday morning

Police have named previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest. Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting

Maine. Gov. Janet Mills confirmed the latest death toll, adding that Card is considered armed and dangerous.

'This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens, on its peace of mind, on its sense of security,' she said.

Card is wanted on eight charges of murder, as the remaining 10 victims have so far not been identified. He was taken by police for an evaluation earlier this year after military officials grew concerned that he was erratically, a U.S. official told AP.

A distraught Maine councilor has said he knows his son is among the dead - though authorities are yet to confirm - while a 10-year-old girl has spoken about being grazed by a stray bullet.

Leroy Walker, whose son managed Schemengees, said he is convinced his son is dead.

'If you had my gut right now, I feel like I'm squashed with a vice,' the Auburn councilor told NBC. 'My neck in the back of my head feels like there's a vice squashing it the other way.'

'And I don't know, telling you the truth, what kind of night this is going to be from now until tomorrow when I wake up to the true facts that my son is dead - and I know he's dead.

'I know it as well as I know I'm standing here telling you because he's not here and he's not at any other hospital and he's not running the streets or he would have called us, because he manages Schemengees, so I know he was there.'

Meanwhile, 10-year-old Zoey questioned 'why do people do this' as she sat beside her mother the morning after they survived the shocking attack at the bowling alley as their city remains on lockdown.

'I never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg,' Zoey told ABC's Good Morning America. 'Like, why do people do this?

'I was more worried about, like, am I going to live and I going to make it out of here. Like, what's going to happen? Are the cops going to come?'

Zoey, 10, questioned 'why do people do this' as she sat beside her mother Meghan Hutchinson the morning after they survived the shocking attack at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston

The gunman targeted Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston at around 7pm on Wednesday before shooting at the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille

Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card who was sectioned this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine

As officials were seen wheeling a body bag out of Schemengees on Thursday morning, audio from police dispatchers indicates they believe the suspect has crossed the border to Massachusetts - armed with a nightscope

A distraught Maine councilor has said he knows his son was killed in the shooting - though authorities are yet to confirm - while a 10-year-old girl has spoken about being grazed by a stray bullet

A body bag was seen being wheeled away from the bar targeted by the gunman in Lewiston

"I never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg."



10-year-old Zoey is unable to comprehend the horrific crime scene she witnessed after her leg was grazed by a bullet in the Maine mass shooting. https://t.co/wIvn53do9j pic.twitter.com/1jMJe0oZ7S  ABC News (@ABC) October 26, 2023

Mom Meghan Hutchinson said her daughter was 'grazed by a bullet' amid the terrifying rampage.

'She was grazed by a bullet while we were running,' Hutchinson told ABC.

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive - was bleeding profusely.

'So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911.'

Another Lewiston mom, Riley Dumont, was in the bowling alley with her daughter, and her parents, including her retired police officer father who leapt into action and saved several people's lives.

'I heard a really loud bang. I didn't think anything of it at the time, but my dad looked at me,' Dumont told ABC.

'Next thing I know, he was just taking the group that we were in and just corralling us in the corner,' she said.

'He put tables over us and just made sure we were safe. He just kind of went into action at that point. It felt like it lasted forever.'

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well.'

Justin Karcher, 23, is on a ventilator in ICU after the shooting, according to his mother Jessica Karcher.

Doctors have to 'keep resuscitating him' following emergency surgery, she told the Washington Post. 'He's not out of the woods.'

She added that Justin witnessed his father being gunned down in a Walmart parking lot in July 2019.

'His father passed away in front of him,' Karcher said. 'My head is pounding,' she added. 'I just called the hospital for an update. And of course, they don't have one.'

Maine Police Colonel William G. Ross said that seven of the victims were found at the Just-In-Time bowling alley: one female and six males, all suffering apparent gunshot wounds.

Another eight victims were found at Schemengees Bar and Grille: seven males were discovered inside and one outside, all also with apparent bullet wounds.

Many more people were rushed to area hospitals, where some were pronounced dead.

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday before targeting Schemengees Bar and Grille around four miles away.

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston

Police officers in tactical gear get ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium as an active search for the shooter is underway

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 18 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

Lewiston councilor Robert McCarthy said on Thursday morning the death toll could be as high as 22 and the town was struggling to handle 'this kind of a shooting event.'

Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card who was sectioned this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

'Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings,' Maine State police said on Facebook.

Lisbon Chief of police Ryan McGee has called the entire police department to assist in the search and closed local businesses.

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search.

Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records to build a timeline of his movements before the shooting.

The mayor of Auburn, a town next to Lewistown, said on TODAY that some of the witnesses thought the rampage was a Halloween prank.

Tactical team members get ready to head back out to search for the suspect of a shooting in Lisbon

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night. The venue is pictured above

The gunman then moved onto the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille, pictured above

Jason Levesque said: 'They thought it was some sort of Halloween joke or something, the initial pops if you would, until everything started escalating quite rapidly.'

An unnamed mother asked for prayers for her 22-year-old son, who was hit four times and is on a ventilator. She told WMTV about 20 other people were waiting for updates on their loved ones at the hospital.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

A police bulletin describes the suspect, Card, as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

It did not provide details about his treatment or condition, but said Card had reported 'hearing voices and threats to shoot up' the military base.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.
Nearly a quarter of Americans now say that the country has gone so far off the rails that patriots may have to resort to violence to save it, according to an alarming new survey.

Polling from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) also shows that millions more Americans have embraced QAnon ideas, and that voters overwhelmingly believe that next year's election could bring the end of democracy.

The survey comes as the nation heads into a divisive 2024 presidential election that looks set to pit the incumbent, Democratic President Joe Biden, against his predecessor, Donald Trump, a Republican.

The last time those two faced off in the 2020 vote, Trump refused to accept his defeat and his supporters stormed the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, in a bid to stop the certification of Biden's win.

Polling from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) sounds the alarm about America's divisive politics

Protesters clash with police officers as people rally in support of Palestinians in Brooklyn, New York, the latest flash point exposing the rifts in US society

PRRI president Robert Jones said the polling shows the 'political temperature in America is rising' further still.

'Our last presidential election was the first in our history without a peaceful transfer of power,' said Jones.

'We should be deeply concerned about the growing number of Americans who express openness to political violence.'

The nationwide survey of 2,525 adults found that the number of people who countenance political violence has shot up these past two years.

In early 2021, only 15 percent of Americans agreed with the statement that 'because things have gotten so far off track, true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country.'

That was roughly the same time as the January 6 insurrection.

This year, 23 percent agreed  with increases among both Republicans and Democrats.

White evangelical Protestants and people who believe Trump won the 2020 vote are more likely to endorse violence than others, researchers said.

Donald Trump's mugshot. The former president has used increasingly vehement rhetoric against his political foes in the run-up to next year's election

President Joe Biden in a prime time speech called MAGA 'extremists' a threat to democracy itself

Trump, the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, has used increasingly violent rhetoric in a reelection campaign clouded by his criminal prosecutions in four jurisdictions.

He has derided the political 'witch hunt' to prevent his return to office, called for harsh treatment of migrants and criminals, and even called for the execution of a former top military official.

At the same time, ever more Americans have embraced the QAnon conspiracy theory.

The wacky credo imagines a devil-worshiping pedophile elite that secretly pulls the strings on US and global institutions.

The number of adherents has jumped from 14 percent in 2021 to 23 percent today, PRRI, a non-profit, says.

Atlanta officials inspecting the damage from anti-police activists, who vandalized a site in Atlanta, Georgia

A man does a Nazi salute as two Neo Nazi groups, Blood Tribe and Goyim Defense League, held a rally in September 2023 in Orlando, Florida

Republican voters are more likely to hold QAnon beliefs, but many Democrats also support the theory.

Against this backdrop, an overwhelming majority of 75 percent of Americans worry that the future of US democracy is at stake in the 2024 presidential vote.

Some 84 percent of Democrats are concerned about representative government coming unstuck, but so do 77 percent of Republicans.

More broadly, the survey sheds light on the racial, religious and political differences that influence America's increasingly fractious politics.

It paints a portrait of a nation facing major demographic shifts as Americans turn away from mainstream media and misinformation swirls around on social media.
The tragic mass shooting in Maine has put the state's gun control laws in the spotlight, and brought renewed calls from anti-gun activists for tighter crackdowns.

At least 18 people were killed and 13 wounded when a gunman opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle at a children's bowling league and nearby bar in Lewiston on Wednesday night.

Army reserve firearms instructor Robert R. Card, 40, who was previously committed to a mental health facility for two weeks over the summer, is the sole person of interest and remains at large.

The senseless massacre immediately renewed debate over one of the most divisive issues in US politics, gun control, and drew scrutiny to Maine's laws, which do not require background checks at gun shows, and have a more limited 'yellow flag law' instead of a red flag law.

Maine is among 25 US states that allow lawful gun owners to carry a concealed handgun without a permit. It is also one of 38 states that allow open carry, or visibly wearing a firearm, without a permit.

A customer is seen purchasing a handgun at a gun show at the Augusta Civic Center in Augusta, Maine in a file photo. Maine's gun control laws are under new scrutiny

Apolice officer in his car stands guard next to the Schememgees bar where a man opened fire killing and injuring numerous people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

Anti-gun advocacy groups generally rate Maine's laws poorly, with Everytown for Gun Safety writing: 'Maine has very few foundational gun safety laws.'

'Despite 89% of gun deaths in the state being the result of suicide, the Pine Tree State lacks most basic laws that would help reduce suicide, including background checks for all gun sales, an Extreme Risk law, and waiting periods,' Everytown wrote in an assessment ranking Maine 25th out of 50 states for gun law strength.

'Maine is also a permitless carry state, though it continues to have low gun violence relative to its weaker firearm laws, likely in part because it is protected by the strong laws of other states in the region,' the group added.

The US federal government has many laws regulating the sale and possession of guns, including mandatory background checks for purchases from licensed dealers, and a ban prohibiting felons and convicted domestic abusers from possessing firearms.

However, many states add their own regulations, such as adding background check requirements for private-party sales, including those at gun shows.

Maine, where Democrats control the governor's office and state legislature, is fairly lax on such added requirements, similar to many other states with large rural populations.

The Pine Tree State does not require a permit to purchase a firearm, has no firearm registration rule, and allows concealed and open carry without a permit by anyone legally able to possess a firearm.

Various guns are displayed at a store on July 18, 2022, in Auburn, Maine

Police in Maine, are hunting for the a gunman who killed at least 18 people

Key gun control laws in Maine Concealed carry: Maine is among 25 US states that allow lawful gun owners to carry a concealed handgun without a permit Open carry: Maine is one of 38 states that allow open carry, or visibly wearing a firearm, without a permit by lawful gun owners 'Assault weapon' ban: Maine is among the 42 states without an 'assault weapons ban' that restricts the sale of certain styles of semi-automatic rifles with high-capacity magazines Red Flag Law: Maine has a weaker version of the 'red flag' laws that have passed in 21 other states. While those states allow a judge to temporarily seize guns from a person thought to be dangerous, Maine's version, known as a 'yellow flag' law, also requires a medical practitioner to sign off. Background checks: Federal law requires background checks for purchases at licensed firearm dealers, but not from private sellers. Maine is one of 30 states that has not expanded background check requirements to private sales, such as at gun shows. Advertisement

As well, Maine is among the 42 US states without an 'assault weapons ban' that restricts the sale of certain styles of semi-automatic rifles with high-capacity magazines.

Maine also has a weaker version of the 'Red Flag' laws that have passed in 21 other states, which allow a judge to issue a protective order temporarily seizing a person's firearms if there is reasonable cause to believe they are a threat to themselves or others.

Maine's law, passed in 2020, is known as a 'yellow flag law' because it a medical practitioner must first 'assess whether the person presents a likelihood of foreseeable harm' before a judge can order their firearms to be seized.

Critics say this added hurdle is a hinderance to law enforcement in situations when time may be of the essence, while supporters of the yellow flag law say it provides a needed check on the government's power to seize private property.

Maine's yellow flag law was under especial scrutiny following Wednesday's massacre, after it emerged that the suspected Lewiston shooter had been psychiatrically committed in recent months.

However, many details about the shooter remain unclear, including when and how he obtained the weapon, making it difficult to determine whether any specific law could have prevented the shooting.

A Maine resident stands at his table at the gun show held in the Augusta Civic Center in Augusta, Maine in 2016

Gingrich: In states that have conceal carry and other permits, constitutional carry permits, you have a much more rapid response to these This also applies to what happened in Israel when Hamas attacked. pic.twitter.com/tvNmkY7z5K  Acyn (@Acyn) October 26, 2023

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, blamed Maine's Republican legislative minority, saying they 'rejected a bill this year that would have required a waiting period for firearm purchases.'

'We need immediate action  we cannot sit around and wait for Congress. We need to amend the Constitution to help prevent tragedies like this,' he wrote in a post on X.

In a now-deleted post on X, author Stephen King, who is a Maine resident, lamented, 'This does not happen in other countries.'

'The shooting occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon. It's the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder,' he wrote, in another post that has now been deleted.

On the other side of the debate, former House Speaker New Gingrich, a Republican, argued in favor of relaxing gun restrictions following the Maine shooting.

'Frankly, in states that have conceal carry and other permits, constitutional carry permits, you have a much more rapid response to these kind of people who are crazy,' he said in an appearance on Fox News on Wednesday night.

'We have to have a greater ability for our citizens to protect themselves because it's clear that law enforcement comes in after the massacre. But law enforcement's almost never there to stop the massacre,' he added.

Maine already allows concealed carry without a permit, also known as constitutional carry.

So far there have been no reports that bystanders at the massacre were able to return fire or otherwise engage the shooter.
Three people have been arrested - including a man suspected of rape - after a police force deployed facial recognition cameras onto its streets.

The controversial technology uses a specialist van to match faces against a predetermined database of those sought out by officers.

Essex Police, which used the tech for the first time on Tuesday, said they made sure that those who were not on the watch-list were not matched and their scanned faces were not stored by the authorities.

The tech, which is owned by South Wales Police but used in Southend-on-Sea and Chelmsford by the Essex force this week, assisted with making arrests in connection with a robbery investigation and an outstanding warrant.

The deployment was targeted to focus on a specific list of people wanted in connection with high harm offences, such as violent or sexual offences.

Campaign group Big Brother Watch has branded the technology as 'Orwellian' and said it was 'dangerously unregulated surveillance technology that turns the public into walking ID cards'.

Three people have been arrested - including a man suspected of rape - after Essex Police deployed facial recognition cameras onto its streets

The controversial technology uses a specialist van to match faces that pass by against a predetermined database of those sought out by police

Officers on patrol received five alerts on faces that matched the database of highly sought-after people during the two-day operation. They also managed to identify a potential witness to another sexual abuse case who agreed to be interviewed at a later date.

READ MORE: Police use facial recognition technology to catch prolific shoplifters with state-of-the-art system which can identify potential suspects in just 60 seconds Advertisement

Detective Superintendent Stephen Jennings of Essex Police, said: 'This was a really positive first deployment of Live Facial Recognition technology in Essex.

'Essex Police is a forward-thinking force and we are always looking at how new technology can help us keep people safe, catch criminals, and deter crime.

'As a result of this deployment we have three suspects in custody and have arranged an interview in connection with another investigation.

'This means that these investigations are able to be progressed as a direct result of our use of this technology.

'The vans also acted as a talking point with the public and gave us an opportunity to speak to them about its use and how it works. I'm pleased to say that the reaction we've had has been overwhelmingly positive.'

Senior Advocacy Officer for Big Brother Watch, Madeleine Stone, said: 'While democracies around the world are moving towards banning its use, the UK is embracing the same dystopian surveillance practices as Russia and China, despite a total lack of public or parliamentary debate.

'This technology poses grave threats to age-old British liberties and must be urgently stopped.'

Explaining how the technology works, Det Supt Jennings added: 'The Live Facial Recognition technology compares live camera feeds of faces against a predetermined database or ''watch list'' of people of interest.

Essex Police, which used the tech for the first time on Tuesday, stressed that those who were not on the watch-list were not matched and their scanned faces were not stored by the authorities

If you walk through an area where LFR is being deployed and you are not one of the specific people police are trying to locate, your image will be 'immediately and automatically' deleted, police say

The tech, which is owned by South Wales Police, assisted the force with making arrests in connection with a robbery investigation

'Only images of specific people wanted or suspected in connection with high harm and/or violent crimes appear on that database.

'When there's a positive match, appropriate action is taken by officers on the ground.

'If you're not on the "watch list", your face cannot be matched.

'We take your privacy very seriously and images of members of the public will not be stored.

'If you walk through an area where LFR is being deployed and you are not one of the specific people we're trying to locate, your image will be immediately and automatically deleted.

'It's not held on a database, it's not remembered, and it's not kept.

Officers on patrol received five alerts on faces that matched the database of highly sought-after people during the two-day operation

The deployment was targeted to focus on a specific list of people wanted in connection with high harm offences, such as violent or sexual offences. In total there were five positive alerts

'South Wales Police are providing the technology for this deployment and there has not been one single wrongful arrest because of their use of facial recognition.'

Assistant Chief Constable Andy Mariner added: 'We have thought carefully about this technology to ensure its use is proportionate and in the public interest.

'As part of that process we have briefed the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner and he has assured himself, on behalf of the public of Essex, that the use of LFR cameras has been properly considered.'
Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson has been accused of barring residents from a community meeting about controversial asylum seeker accommodation.

Video from Tuesday night shows dozens of people crowded outside Kelly High School unable to get inside with many taking up a chant of 'open the doors'.

Meanwhile inside the meeting quickly grew heated with some residents opposing the city's plan to turn a site in the Southwest Side neighborhood into a tent shelter for asylum seekers.

Cheers and boos erupted from the crowd, while outside, residents who had not been allowed in pounded on the doors.

They were there to discuss plans to construct a migrant 'basecamp' at a private lot at the intersection of West 38th Street and South California Avenue that would house as many as 2,000 people.

Dozens of residents waited outside, pounding on the door until they were gradually allowed inside

Some held signs and chanted 'open the doors'

Officials haven't provided an official move-in date, saying the 11-acre site is still undergoing an environmental assessment.

If it is deemed suitable, they say they will bring in supplies, erect tents and test them, before welcoming migrants.

The deputy mayor for immigrant, migrant and refugee rights, Beatriz Ponce de Leon explained the camp is a short term solution to the steady stream of migrants who have arrived in Chicago.

Nearly 20,000 people have arrived in the city since August 2022 and with not enough beds to go around, 4,000 have been forced to sleep at the airport, police stations and outdoors.

Ponce de Leon reportedly said: 'It is evident that it is not a safe place or humane way for people to live. Our number one priority right now, especially as winter is upon us, is to make sure that those 4,000 people have a place to be.'

The camp is initially expected to hold 500 people, made up of families with children, but this will gradually be increased to 2,000.

The site will be heated, with dining halls, restrooms and shower facilities.

The city has said it will be monitored by unarmed security, but local residents have expressed concern over safety risk.

Michael, who has lived in the area for six years, reportedly said: 'We have concerns about our students, our children, who walk down the street every day. How are we ensuring their safety?

'To commence construction without a word to us, that is not an oversight, its disrespect.'

The Windy City is struggling with over 11,000 migrants in shelters and 4,000 staying in police stations and the O'Hare International Airport (pictured)

Most of the migrants who have arrived in Chicago during the last year have come from Texas, largely under the direction of Republican Governor Greg Abbott

Julie Gamez, 60, a 16-year resident of Brighton Park, reportedly said: 'We all need to have security here, and there is none. Im out at 4 in the morning, and I dont see a single patrol car. There have been robberies, theres been beatings, shootings.

'Im an immigrant, and I know that we need to help them, but there has to be another place for them to go. Lets fix our problems first.'

But Gamez neighbor and good friend Esther Cadena, 92, said the neighborhood should welcome the new arrivals with an open heart.

Mayor Johnson only confirmed the site would be used as a migrant shelter on Monday prompting backlash that the community had not been consulted.

Residents also expressed concerns about the conditions the migrants would be kept in, and that the soft shelled 'yurts' would not be warm enough for the Chicago winter.

Alderman Julia Ramirez, who was attacked along with her aide by protestors last week, tried to allay the concerns of the crowd.

She said: 'The city is asking a lot of Brighton Park' and added she had asked for more resources for the area.
Police are searching the waterways for Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist, after his car was found abandoned at a boat dock

The bowling alley killer who shot at least 18 people dead in Maine could have made his getaway on a jet ski, police believe.

Army Reservist Robert Card, 40, is suspected of being responsible for the massacre at a bowling alley and pool hall in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night, inuring 13 and killing at least 18 people  the deadliest mass shooting of the year.

Armored tanks and SWAT teams scoured a waterway entry to the Androscoggin River in the early hours of Thursday morning after Card's empty white Subaru Outback was found abandoned at a boat dock in Miller Park.

Card's boat, a 15-ft Bayliner is also missing, and the US Coastguard is looking for it, a spokeswoman told DailyMail.com.

Marine records seen by DailyMail.com show that Card registered a 2019 Sea Doo jet ski in his name in June, sparking fears that he could have used the watercraft to flee investigators after opening fire.

Maine State Police aircraft searched over a small area of the river in the early hours Thursday in a bid to find Card, who authorities say suffered from mental health issues.

They said a blue Chevy Suburban with a Maine registration plate 6625ZD believed to be carrying Card crossed into Massachusetts on the I-93 at 8:01 Thursday morning.

They described him as 'believed to be armed and dangerous'.

A shelter in place advisory has been expanded from Lewiston to Lisbon and Bowdoin, with residents urged to remain inside as the gunman remains at large.

Officers were seen outside his home in Bowdoin on Thursday morning, with swathes of roads across the state being shut down in a bid to apprehend the 'highly skilled' firearms specialist.

A search warrant was issued for Card's property, with sources telling local media that investigators had discovered a note inside.

A gunman has killed at least 18 people and injured 13 in the town of Lewiston, Maine. Police in Lewiston are hunting for the suspect, pictured at the Sparetime recreation center. The first call came in for Sparetime at 7:15pm local time (12.15am BST)

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to Card. Sheriffs said at 11:20pm on Wednesday the car was found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, about seven miles away

Marine records seen by DailyMail.com show that Card registered a 2019 Sea Doo jet ski in his name in June, sparking fears that he could have used the watercraft to flee investigators after opening fire. The same model of Card's jet ski is pictured

Rick Gadden, a longtime neighbor of the Card family told DailyMail.com: 'If he can do that to innocent people there is obviously a chance he can come and target us.

'He knows this area like the back of his hand, if he doesn't want to be found he won't. He's a hunter.'

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday and then nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille. Lewiston councilor Robert McCarthy said on Thursday morning the death toll was up to 18, and the town was struggling to handle 'this kind of a shooting event.'

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 18 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

Four black hearses arrived on the scene at Schemengees where Card is suspected to have opened fire last night.

The vehicles crossed one of the many road detours to access the scene as officers continued to sweep for evidence.

Lewiston, a city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card who was committed this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

'Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings,' Maine State police said on Facebook. Lisbon Chief of police Ryan McGee has called the entire police department to assist in the search and closed local businesses.

Card's movements after the shooting are still clouded in uncertainty. The Coast Guard confirmed that his Bayliner is missing and five armed Coast Guards are searching the Kennebec River.

Survivors have described how they escaped by fleeing down bowling lanes and hiding behind pins as the gunman used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire while children were playing - with teenagers among the injured.

Meghan Hutchinson described the horror when her daughter was grazed by a bullet in the bowling alley as they were running away from the gunman.

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive ... was bleeding profusely. So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911,' the mother told WMTW.

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night. Police believe it is Robert Card

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston

Police officers in tactical gear get ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium as an active search for the shooter is underway

A heavy police presence was outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under locked down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search. Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records to build a timeline of his movements before the shooting.

The mayor of Auburn, a town next to Lewistown, said on TODAY that some of the witnesses thought the rampage was a Halloween prank.

Jason Levesque said: 'They thought it was some sort of Halloween joke or something, the initial pops if you would, until everything started escalating quite rapidly.'

An unidentified mother asked for prayers for her 22-year-old son, who was hit four times and is on a ventilator. She told WMTV about 20 other people were waiting for updates on their loved ones at the hospital.

Survivor Riley Dumont said her 11-year-old daughter was playing in the children's bowling league when she heard several gunshots. She told ABC News her father, a retired police officer, rushed the family into a corner.

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well,' Dumont said. At least seven people were killed in the first shooting.

One bowler, who only identified himself by his first name Brandon, said he heard 10 shots ring out before he ran down the alley barefoot and climbed inside the bowling machinery to hide from the gunman.

Residents of both Lewiston and nearby Lisbon and Bowdoin have been advised to not go outside on Thursday morning as the the gunman remains at large

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles

Describing the moment that the shooter opened fire, Brandon said: 'We were inside, just a normal night of bowling. Out of nowhere he just came in and there was a loud pop.

'I thought it was a balloon, I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon, he was holding a weapon, I just booked it down the lane and I slid basically in where the pins are and climbed on the machine.

Brandon, who stayed on top of the machines for about ten minutes until the cops arrived, said that the gunman was around 15ft behind him. 'He was close, very close,' he added.

'I just went there to bowl by myself and I wasn't even in there 10 minutes, I just walked in the place. I was putting on my bowling shoes when it started. I've been barefoot for five hours.'

Jason J. Levesque told CNN that the youngest victims of the shootings were teenagers, adding that trauma specialists and grief counselors were at the scene.

Chilling CCTV images show Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, pointing his rifle as he walked into the bowling alley, while dramatic footage shows terrified people running for their lives.

Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, is seen on a fishing trip

CCTV images show how the shooter was armed with a rifle when he carried out the mass shooting

The 'armed and dangerous' shooter was holding an AR 15-style rifle with a laser optic when he burst into the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at 7:15pm local time.

Police then received calls about a shooting at a second location, Schemengees Bar and Grille, which was around four miles away. A spokesperson for the bar said: 'My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words.'

They said that their world was 'turned upside down for no good reason', adding: How can we make any sense of this? Sending out prayers to everyone.'

Concerned friends and family members of possible victims are desperately hunting for information as they claim police won't tell them who the casualties are as it is an ongoing investigation.

Police were knocking on doors of homes in the local area, while helicopters remained in the area Wednesday night.

Authorities have opened a reunification center at Auburn Middle School. Armed police were searching anyone coming onto the grounds.

Dozens of anxious relatives were hurried inside by officers, and DailyMail.com saw one woman sobbing behind the wheel of her car.

At least a dozen local officers surrounded the school, with volunteers taking emotional family members inside.
Organizers of the event have apologized for the incident and Nykiel has been suspended without pay pending an investigation

Drama erupted at a Dia de los Muertos event in California after it was crashed by an ice cream vendor.

Local businessman Jose Felix was scolded by an official when he showed up to the celebration in Oceanside on Sunday unannounced with his Caballos Ice Cream cart.

He was confronted by event coordinator Cathy Nykiel who was furious at his attempt to capitalize on the packed crowd and she ordered him to leave.

The Friends of Oceanside member was seen calling for security and attempting to push his cart out of the event while shouting 'I paid for this event' in front of shocked attendees.

Footage of the confrontation was shared on Instagram where it has been viewed more than a million times.

Drama erupted at a Dia de los Muertos event in California after it was crashed by an ice cream vendor

Local businessman Jose Felix was scolded by event volunteer Cathy Nykiel when he showed up to the celebration in Oceanside on Sunday unannounced with his Caballos Ice Cream cart

A clip shows Nykiel holding on to Felix's ice cream cart and attempting to push it out of the event.

She is seen surrounded by outraged members of the public and shouts: 'This is public property but I paid for this event. I did, me.'

Nykiel then radios in for security and forcefully tries to move the cart again while a woman in the crowd attempts to stop her.

An attendee at the Dia de los Muertos event informs her she almost ran over his daughter with the cart and that she was crying.

Felix says: 'I'm leaving right now.'

Nykiel replies: 'You're not leaving, I haven't seen you move. Keep on moving that way, please exit.'

He adds: 'Okay don't touch my cart. I'm telling you I am leaving.'

Nykiel continues to radio for backup and says: 'I have an argument with people over here. They decided they have a right to say whatever's at my event.'

She is then seen guiding Felix to the exit as he moves his cart out of the event and a separate clip shows her following him out.

A crowd member is heard in the video saying he was going to file a complaint against Nykiel with the police department.

Felix was confronted by Nykiel who was furious at his attempt to capitalize on the packed crowd and she ordered him to leave

The Friends of Oceanside member was seen calling for security and attempting to push his cart out of the event while shouting 'I paid for this event' in front of shocked attendees

An attendee at the Dia de los Muertos event informs Nykiel she almost ran over his daughter with the cart and that she was crying

Nykiel continues to radio for backup and says: 'I have an argument with people over here. They decided they have a right to say whatever's at my event'

Felix, who has been running Caballos Ice Cream for seven years, was left shocked by the incident.

'She was screaming at me so loud and so aggressive,' he told NBC7. 'Were not hurting anybody and just trying to make a living, you know?'

Friends of Oceanside Dia de los Muertos, who organized the event, admitted it made a mistake in a statement about the altercation.

'We recognize that we made a mistake in our handling of the situation, and we take full responsibility for our actions,' it wrote.

'Rest assured that lessons have been learned from this incident.'

She is then seen guiding Felix to the exit as he moves his cart out of the event and a separate clip shows her following him out

Felix, who has been running Caballos Ice Cream for seven years, was left shocked by the incident

Nykiel identified herself as the volunteer in a separate statement and apologized over the altercation

Nykiel identified herself as the volunteer in a separate statement and apologized over the incident.

'I take full responsibility for my actions at the Festival yesterday and am extremely remorseful and embarrassed,' she wrote. 'I am very sorry for how this affected the festival guests.'

Felix said he is willing to forgive her and the organizers if the apology is sincere.

'I hope they were giving that apology from the heart and not only because they were caught on camera,' he said.

Main Street Oceanside Chief Operating Officer Gumaro Escarcega said Nykiel has been suspended following her actions.

'While the event was not organized by Main Street Oceanside, our employee Cathy Nykiel engaged in inexcusable behavior,' he said.

'This behavior has prompted Main Street Oceanside to suspend Cathy without pay pending investigation.'

DailyMail.com has contacted Nykiel and Main Street Oceanside for comment.
Fugitive Maine shooting suspect Robert Card lived in a 'compound' with his gun-fanatic family, according to a local who claimed neighbors tried to avoid the alleged killer.

Liam Kent, who lives near Card's home in Bowdoin, told The Messenger the community knew the suspect and his relatives as 'gun-toting enthusiasts who lived in 'basically a compound.'

'They would shoot guns all the time, you could hear them every day after school. It was like clockwork,' Kent claimed, adding that he once saw Card 'covered in blood with a gun on his back [and] a giant grin on his face' after going deer hunting.

Army reserve firearms instructor Card, 40, was charged with eight counts of murder for the Wednesday night shootings at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar and Grille in Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000.

Maine Police Colonel William Ross said on Thursday morning that only eight of the 18 victims have been identified, hence the number of charges against Card for what is the deadliest mass shooting in the nation so far this year.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers are searching for Card- a petroleum supply specialist with no military deployments. The suspect received involuntary psychiatric treatment this summer after he reported hearing voices and having thoughts about hurting other soldiers while training at Camp Smith in New York, a military source told CNN.

Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, was charged with eight counts of murder for the shootings at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar

Card lived in a compound with his 'gun-fanatic' family, according to a local

The Card family home in Bowdoin is pictured above. It is the suspect's last known address

Hundreds of law enforcement officers are searching for previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor

A helicopter flies low along the Androscogin River during the manhunt

Portland Police and an armored car at a search area in Monmouth, Maine

A member of law enforcement crosses a road in Lisbon Falls on Thursday

Law enforcement gather outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille,. Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card

Card is a skilled marksman and outdoorsman who was one of the best shooters in his Army Reserve unit, a former colleague told CNN. Another former colleague said Card was a 'nice guy' who 'never had an issue with anybody.'

He was committed to a mental health institution for about two weeks this summer after threatening to shoot up a national guard base.

Card, described as 'armed and dangerous' and 'highly-skilled,' has ties to Massachusetts, and police are stationed at the state's border. Officials are also covering Maine's border with New Hampshire.

Police said the suspect should not be approached in any circumstances.

Card attended the University of Maine to study engineering but it's unclear if he graduated. He enlisted in the Reserves in 2002 and remains enlisted, which means he has an active military ID and thus access top any military base.

He has received a number of military awards including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

Card's sister-in-law Katie Card, told The Daily Beast he had previously claimed he was hearing voices 'bashing him' at the bowling alley and the bar. She added the family has been messaging Card and urging him to turn himself in.

She said: 'He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know. But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle.'

Lewiston police chief David St Pierre asked the public to be mindful of their own safety and patience as they go through 'such a large-scale investigation.'

Law enforcement officers gather outside Lewiston High School on Thursday

A body is removed from inside Schemengees Bar and Grille

Residents of both Lewiston and nearby Lisbon and Bowdoin have been advised not to go outside as the gunman remains at large. Public schools have closed in Lewiston, Bowdoin and Portland, the state's biggest city, over 30 miles from where the shooting happened.

Col. Ross added that seven of the gunshot victims were found at the kids' bowling alley: one female and six males. Another eight victims were found at the bar: seven males inside and one outside.

Eight victims are hospitalized at Central Maine Medical Center - five are stable and three in critical condition. Three patients died at the hospital and two were discharged, according to Dr. John Alexander.

Meanwhile All Bureau of Motor Vehicle locations across Maine are being closed Thursday, the secretary of state's office has announced. Two of the state's main banks, Camden National Bank and Bangor Savings Bank announced several branches would be closed and others would only offer drive-up services.

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday and then nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille. The death toll, which could yet rise, is the largest from a mass shooting this year. Additionally, the shooting almost matches Maine's entire 2022 homicide numbers.

'Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings,' Maine State police said on Facebook.

Lisbon Chief of police Ryan McGee has called the entire police department to assist in the search and closed local businesses.

The first shooting victim was identified as retired mechanic Bob Violette, 76, who was a children's bowling coach. He spent his time coaching kids at bowling, and he was remembered as someone who 'passed away doing what he loved.'

Tricia Asselin, 53, has also been identified as one of the fatal victims of the shooting at the bowling alley, where she worked part-time. Her brother told CNN she tried to call 911 when she the shooting started and was shot.

Eight victims were found at the Schemengee's Bar and Grille, pictured above

Seven of the victims were found at the bowling alley Sparetime Recreation, pictured above

Residents of both Lewiston and nearby Lisbon and Bowdoin have been advised not to go outside on Thursday morning as the gunman remains at large

Michael Deslauriers II also died at the bowling alley, where he had been bowling with his family.

Joseph Walker, who managed the bar where the gunman headed to next, died trying to stop the gunman, his father, city councilor Leroy Walker said.

'He died as a hero, because he picked up a butcher knife and he tried to go after the gunman,' the heartbroken father told NBC. 'The gunman shot him twice through the stomach.'

Bryan MacFarlane, 40, Steven Vozzela and Bill Bracket, who all were at Schemengees for a cornhole tournament for deaf adults, also died in the shooting, their families confirmed.

A heavy police presence was outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search. Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records to build a timeline of his movements before the shooting.

Officers have confirmed that Card's vehicle - a 2013 white Subaru - was found near the boat dock in Lisbon, about seven miles southeast of Lewiston, but the suspect was not inside.

Armored tanks and SWAT teams scoured a waterway entry to the Androscoggin River in the early hours of Thursday morning after Card's empty white Subaru Outback was found abandoned at a boat dock in Miller Park.

Officers were also seen outside Card's home in nearby Bowdoin on Thursday morning, with swathes of roads across the state being shut down in a bid to apprehend the suspect.

Marine records seen by DailyMail.com show that Card registered a 2019 Sea Doo jet ski in his name in June, sparking fears that he could have used the watercraft to flee investigators after opening fire.

Retired mechanic Bob Violette, 76, was one of the victims in the massacre, according to his daughter-in-law Cassandra

Chilling CCTV images show Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, pointing his rifle as he walked into the bowling alley, while dramatic footage shows terrified people running for their lives.

Police then received calls about a shooting at a second location, Schemengees Bar and Grille, around four miles away. A spokesperson for the bar said: 'My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words.'

They said their world was 'turned upside down for no good reason', adding: How can we make any sense of this? Sending out prayers to everyone.'

Survivors have described how they escaped by fleeing down bowling lanes and hiding behind pins as the gunman used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire while children were playing - with teenagers among the injured.

Meghan Hutchinson described the horror when her 10-year-old daughter Zoe was grazed by a bullet in the bowling alley as they were running away from the gunman.

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive ... was bleeding profusely. So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911,' the mother told WMTW.

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high-powered rifles

The mayor of Auburn, a town next to Lewistown, said on TODAY that some of the witnesses thought the rampage was a Halloween prank.

Jason Levesque said: 'They thought it was some sort of Halloween joke or something, the initial pops if you would, until everything started escalating quite rapidly.'

Survivor Riley Dumont said her 11-year-old daughter was playing in the children's bowling league when she heard several gunshots. She told ABC News her father, a retired police officer, rushed the family into a corner.

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well,' Dumont said. At least seven people were killed in the first shooting.

One bowler, who only identified himself by his first name Brandon, said he heard 10 shots ring out before he ran down the alley barefoot and climbed inside the bowling machinery to hide from the gunman.

President Joe Biden has ordered flags be lowered to half-staff as 'a mark of respect for the victims of the senseless acts of violence perpetrated on October 25, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine.'

Biden said: 'Once again, our nation is in mourning. Today, Jill and I are praying for the Americans whove lost their lives, for those still in critical care, and for the families, survivors, and community members enduring shock and grief.'
The House overwhelmingly voted to support Israel and condemn Hamas in its first legislative action in over three weeks, but a handful of Democrats voted against the resolution.

In the 412-10-6 vote, the House demonstrated support for Israelis after Hamas launched an attack that left 1,400 dead and more than 200 held hostage.

But progressives have criticized Israel's aggressive and far more deadly response aimed at wiping out Hamas.

Reps. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., Al Green, Texas, Andre Carson, Ind., Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., Delia Ramirez, D-Ill., Summer Lee, Pa., all voted against the resolution.

Ilhan Omar, center, voted against the resolution

Reps. Cori Bush and Rashida Tlaib also opposed the resolution

Six other Democrats voted 'present,' not taking a position either way - Reps. Joaquin Castro, Texas, Chuy Garcia, Ill., Greg Casar, Texas, Ayanna Pressley, Mass., and Pramila Jayapal, Wash.

One Republican - Rep. Thomas Massie, Ky., - also voted against the resolution.

He said on X he opposed it because 'it calls for sanctions on a sovereign country. Sanctions are a prelude to war and hurt the citizens of the country more than the government of the country thats being sanctioned.'

He also opposed the resolution's foreign aid commitment and 'open-ended promise of military support that is so broad that it could be interpreted to commit US soldiers to the conflict.'

The resolution reaffirms the U.S.'s 'commitment to Israel's security, including through security assistance' and calls on all countries to 'unequivocally condemn Hamas' brutal war.'

A victim covered in blood is seen after being pulled from under the rubble in the city of Khan Yunis, Gaza, where some buildings collapsed or were heavily damaged in Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

A view of the area in the city of Khan Yunis, Gaza, heavily damaged in Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

Progressives have criticized Israel's aggressive and far more deadly response aimed at wiping out Hamas. Pictured: The heavily damaged city of Khan Yunis, Gaza, as a result of Israeli airstrikes on October 26, 2023

It also slams Iran for 'support for terrorist groups and proxies, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad' and demands 'full enforcement' of sanctions on Iran.

Some 7,000 have died in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza in the aftermath of the attack, including nearly 3,000 children, according to Gaza officials.

The Israeli army has launched an overnight ground invasion to target Hamas with tanks.

In a joint statement, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates said that the right to self defense does not justify Israel breaking law and violating the rights of Palestinians. They condemned what they saw as a forced displacement and collective punishment in the Gaza strip.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., also introduced a resolution to censure Tlaib for her assertion last week that Israel bombed a hospital despite U.S. intelligence signaling it was the result of a misfired rocket from Hamas.

The bombing resulted in hundreds of deaths.

She accused Tlaib of inciting an 'insurrection,' referring to last week's pro-Palestinian protest on Capitol Hill.

Hundreds of protesters swarmed the Capitol campus last week to demand a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian territory, and more than 300 were arrested. Tlaib spoke at the protest.
Chilling footage has emerged showing the elaborate tunnel systems that Hamas terrorists have been using to move weapons, hostages and stage attacks on Israel.

The footage gives insight into the claustrophobic conditions the Palestinian Islamist fighters have been operating in.

It shows militants using metal rods and shovels to dig the tunnels. Many of them appear to be quite cramped and dark with footage showing the fighters slightly slouching as they move through the tunnels guided by headtorches.

Despite the confined conditions, most of the tunnels have concrete reinforcing.

The militants can be seen dressed in full military fatigues with some obscuring their faces with headscarves, balaclavas or wearing camouflage paint. They were heavily armed, carrying large machine guns, ammunition and rocket propelled weapons.

Hamas terrorists have been using to move weapons, hostages and stage attacks on Israel

The militants can be seen dressed in full military fatigues with some obscuring their faces with headscarves, balaclavas or wearing camouflage paint. They were heavily armed, carrying large machine guns, ammunition and rocket propelled weapons

Chilling footage has emerged showing the elaborate tunnel systems that Hamas terrorists have been using to move weapons, hostages and stage attacks on Israel

The armed terrorists can be seen emerging from trapdoors concealed by sand, shrubs or improvised barriers

The armed terrorists can be seen emerging from trapdoors concealed by sand, shrubs or improvised barriers. Others carrying missiles can be seen setting up in cinderblock laden defensive positions.

Other shots of the tunnels show more expansive and well-lit areas with what appears to be wiring for electricity and communications and Hamas flags and insignia decorating the walls.

They also show off an array of munitions with grenades, landmines and large rockets visible.

Their complex network of reinforced tunnels, some of which are buried up to 40ft underground and all of which could conceal an ambush, be booby-trapped or filled with explosives and primed to cave in.

This means Israel can bomb Gaza all it likes and launch bunker-busting munitions to clear out some tunnels - but the Israeli Defense Force (IDF) would still need to deploy hundreds of thousands of troops to neutralise every last Hamas fighter if it is to wipe the organisation out completely.

Other shots of the tunnels show more expansive and well-lit areas with what appears to be wiring for electricity and communications and Hamas flags and insignia decorating the walls

The terrorist's can be seen with an array of munitions with grenades, landmines and large rockets visible

The footage gives insight into the claustrophobic conditions the Palestinian Islamist fighters have been operating in

The Hamas militants have a complex network of reinforced tunnels, some of which are buried up to 40ft underground and all of which could conceal an ambush, be booby-trapped or filled with explosives and primed to cave in

Hamas in 2011 said they had constructed more than 300 miles of tunnel systems and although analysts suspected that figure was inflated, the group is sure to have dramatically expanded the network since then.

The IDF has long been trying - and failing - to destroy the huge network of tunnels which were established after Hamas took control of the Gaza Strip in 2007.

Not only do they run underground throughout Gaza, but several reach into Israeli territory and have long served as a launch point for many of the Hamas' attacks.

Tunnels were among Hamas' most effective tools during the 2014 war with Israel, with militants using them to move weapons, enter the Jewish state, ambush IDF soldiers, and at times even return to Gaza through the underground passages.

The first Hamas tunnels were built in 2007 between the Gaza Strip and Egypt and were designed for smuggling consumer goods to bypass the Israeli blockade.

However, some rudimentary networks existed in Gaza as early as 2002. One was used to bomb an Israeli outpost within the Strip in 2004. A second tunnel bomb attack on an Israeli outpost took place in December 2004, killing five IDF soldiers.

Israel has long struggled to wipe the system out, despite top of the range military and intelligence equipment.

This is primarily because the tunnels, which are believed to have cost between $30 million (21.3 million) and $90 million (63.9 million) to build, are extremely difficult to detect from the air.

Some of the three dozen tunnels built since the end of the 2014 Israel-Gaza conflict are estimated to have cost $3 million (2.13 million).

By 2013, the network had definitively pivoted away from the Egyptian border and towards Israel and there were at least three tunnels under the Israel-Gaza border, two of which were packed with explosives.

The underground network now branches hundreds of miles through the Gaza Strip reaching the towns of Khan Younis, Jabalia, and the Shati refugee camp. They also stretch into Israel.

The tunnels are used by Hamas and other Islamist groups in Gaza, including the Islamic Jihad movement in Palestine, all of whom say tunnels are needed for defence, and to get around the difficulties imposed by Israel's strict border controls.

Reportedly more than 7000 people have been killed in Gaza since the start of the war.

So far, the total of 7028 deaths includes 2913 children, the Hamas-run health ministry said.

Yesterday the ministry reported 6546 deaths, including 2704 children.

Joe Biden said he had 'no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using', though he did not explain why.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations said it was 'deeply disturbed' by his comments and called on the President to apologise.

'Journalists have confirmed the high number of casualties and countless videos coming out of Gaza every day show mangled bodies of Palestinian women and children,' executive director Nihad Awad said.
The parents of critically ill baby girl Indi Gregory have failed in their attempt to take their life-support treatment case to a European court.

Dean Gregory and Claire Staniforth had lost legal fights in London and wanted judges at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), in Strasbourg, France, to consider their daughter's case.

The couple are being backed by the Christian Legal Centre, which today said the ECHR had 'rejected' an application.

A High Court judge recently ruled that doctors could lawfully limit the treatment they provide to eight-month-old Indi and her parents, who are both in their 30s and from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, failed to persuade appeal judges to overturn that decision.

The Christian Legal Centre said Indi's parents initially wanted a European judge to 'prohibit' the withdrawal of 'life-sustaining treatment' until the ECHR had considered the case.

Mr Gregory said in a statement issued through the Christian Legal Centre: 'As a father and parent, I was willing to do everything I could to save my daughter's life from inhumane decisions and people trying to play god.

The parents of critically ill baby girl Indi Gregory have failed in their attempt to take their life-support treatment case to a European court

Indi ( previously pictured at her christening) with father Dean Gregory (right) and Indi's mother Claire Staniforth (left)

Dean Gregory, 37, from Ilkeston in Derbyshire, the father of Indi Gregory who has mitochondrial disease

'To us she is everything and we will do everything we can to help until the end as it is our duty as parents to protect her.'

Earlier, he said: 'The whole experience of the court system is completely one-sided. From day one all we ever wanted was for Indi to have a fair trial and to be allowed to have an independent specialist, not affiliated with the NHS, to provide expert evidence.

'What you would think is a fair and basic wish and right, however, has been denied to us and we have not been given that opportunity.'

Mr Justice Peel had heard evidence about Indi's condition at a private trial in the Family Division of the High Court.

He heard that Indi, who was born on February 24, 2023, had mitochondrial disease, and is being treated at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham.

Specialists say she is dying and bosses at the hospital's governing trust asked Mr Justice Peel to rule that doctors could lawfully limit treatment provided to her.

Barrister Emma Sutton KC, who led Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust's legal team, told Mr Justice Peel that Indi was critically ill and had an exceptionally rare and devastating neurometabolic disorder.

She said the treatment Indi received caused pain and was futile.

Indi, who was born on February 24, 2023, has mitochondrial disease, a genetic condition that saps energy, and is being treated at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham

Mr Justice Peel had considered evidence behind closed doors, but he allowed journalists to attend the hearing and ruled that Indi, her parents and the hospital could be named in reports.

He ruled that medics treating Indi and a guardian appointed to represent her interests could not be named.

The Christian Legal Centre spokesman said in a statement: 'After exhausting domestic remedies, the family of Indi Gregory has this morning filed an application with the European Court of Human Rights asking for 'interim measures...' before 4pm today to prohibit withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment until the ECHR has considered the case.'

Mr Gregory earlier said: 'To us, Indi is everything, and is worth the cost and fighting for to give her a chance to live.

'As parents we believe it is our duty to do everything we can to protect our child.

'Claire and I are both heartbroken that the courts and NHS are not doing more to help us.

'It shouldn't be anybody's right to end somebody's life.'
A 29-year-old woman vanished in the heart of Sydney nearly two months ago, but no one reported her as missing until earlier this week.

Rose Yumul was last seen in Sydney's CBD at about 4pm on September 1.

Police were only told on Monday that she was missing.

Rose Yumul was last seen in Sydney's CBD at about 4pm on September 1

She was last seen wearing a dark green dress, gold watch on her left hand and carrying a black handbag

Rose is Asian, 165cm tall, slim and has olive skin and shoulder-length brown hair.

She was last seen wearing a dark green dress, gold watch on her left hand and carrying a black handbag.

She is known to frequent the Sydney CBD, Parramatta and Auburn areas.

Police and family hold concerns for her welfare.

Anyone who has seen Rose or has information of her whereabouts is urged to call Burwood Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Special Counsel Jack Smith has asked a federal judge to reimpose a gag order on Donald Trump and accused the former president of 'publicly targeting' potential witnesses despite repeated warnings from the bench.

Smith's prosecutors cite Trump's recent post about former White House Chief of staff Mark Meadows, calling it an attempt to 'intimidate' him, following a report that he had reached an immunity deal with prosecutors.

That came despite a gag order that U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan imposed, then suspended with a stay while the parties fight about it.

'In the few days since the administrative stay has been in place, the defendant has returned to the very sort of targeting that the Order prohibits, including attempting to intimidate and influence foreseeable witnesses, and commenting on the substance of their testimony,' Smith's team wrote in a filing Wednesday night.

Prosecutors cited a post by former President Donald Trump about his former White House chief of staff, accusing him of trying to 'intimidate' witnesses

In a post that prosecutors printed in their filing, Trump wrote Oct. 20th after the stunning report about Meadows, 'Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I dont think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?'

Meadows' lawyer George Terwilliger cast doubt on the report after it was published, calling it largely inaccurate.

Prosecutors first persuaded Chutkan to impose the gag order in order to protect witnesses and keep the D.C. jury pool from being tainted. IN their filing, they write unless the judge immediately reimposes it, witnesses 'could be influenced or deterred by the defendants documented pattern of targeting.

Judger Tanya Chutkan imposed a gag order to Trump, citing the risk to potential witnesses and the importance of avoiding tainting the jury pool in the January 6 case. Prosecutors want to get it reimposed after she put a pause on it

The filing comes after New York judge Arthur Engoron slapped a $10,000 fine on Trump for violating his own gag order, following comments Engoron said appeared aimed at his clerk. Judge Engoron said he would reconsider the fine after Trump's lawyers complained.

Without intervention by the court, Smith's team argued, 'the defendant will continue to threaten the integrity of these proceedings and put trial participants at risk.'

They addressed Trump's tactics of relying on social media, identifying perceived enemies by name, but then using vague language or asking questions, rather than giving outright instructions to his millions of followers.

By 'publicly targeting perceived adversaries with inflammatory language, he can maintain a plausible deniability while ensuring the desired results,' they write.

Chutkan herself has been the recipient of threats while presiding over the case, where Trump is charged with a conspiracy to interfere with an official proceeding as part of his election overturn effort.
Horror novelist Stephen King has voiced his fury over the Maine shootings that left 18 people dead as he revealed he went to school in one of the towns now sheltering from the gunman.

King, who was born in Portland, Maine, blamed 'rapid-fire killing machines' for the massacre in the city of Lewiston, 50 miles from where he lives.

The acclaimed author attended Lisbon High School in neighboring Lisbon Falls, which is now under lockdown amid a desperate manhunt for the shooter, believed to be previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40.

'This is madness in the name of freedom,' King said on the platform X. 'Stop electing apologists for murder.' He added: 'THIS DOES NOT HAPPEN IN OTHER COUNTRIES.'

Novelist Stephen King has voiced his fury over the Maine shootings with his former school now under lockdown as police launch a desperate manhunt for the shooter

He wrote: 'This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder.'

The deadly shooting, which left 18 dead, has rocked the otherwise sleepy city of Lewiston, once a retirement haven that has been plagued by a recent crime wave

The deadly spree at a bowling league and nearby bar has shocked the otherwise sleepy city of Lewiston, home to around 38,000 people.

Residents of Lewiston and nearby Lisbon and Bowdoin have been advised to not go outside on Thursday morning as the gunman remains at large.

Public schools have closed in Lewiston, Bowdoin and Portland, the state's biggest city, which is over 30 miles from Lewiston.

Lewiston, Maine's second most populous city, was named as one of the best places to retire in the US by Forbes in 2017, owing to its affordable living costs, low serious crime rate, good access to healthcare and hiking trails.

But the area has been plagued by disquiet over a perceived crime wave ever since.

The Lewiston Sun Journal reported last Spring that residents were moving out of the area after becoming 'rattled' by 'blatant drug dealing' in a 'once pristine neighborhood' that had undergone 'a lot of negative change in the last five years'.

One Lewiston woman told the paper: 'I don't go some places because alone isn't safe. There is a lot more shooting. It has been on the rise when big men come from out of state to deal drugs or women.'

Crime in the city spiked by 20 per cent last year, according to the police department's annual report, with homicide, gun crime, rape and robbery all on the rise.

Nine people were struck by gunfire in Lewiston in the first half of 2022, including Meghan Duncan, 24, who was shot and seriously wounded inside her home.

A day later, police tracked down a suspect, described as a violent fugitive, in a Massachusetts hotel room.

King blamed 'rapid-fire killing machines' for the massacre after the shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire on a children's bowling alley and nearby bar

King's former school is under lockdown as the shooter remains at large

Law enforcement gather outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille as the search for a gunman

Law enforcement vehicles drive on the parking lot of the Lisbon High School gymnasium

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night. Police believe it is Robert Card

The gunman then moved onto the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille, pictured above

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire at he Sparetime Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night. The venue is pictured above

Unlike the massacre that left 18 dead on Wednesday night, police say shootouts in the city are typically the result of ongoing feuds between drug trafficking gangs from states in lower New England.

Neighboring Bowdoin, where suspected shooter Card is from, is still recovering from a deadly shooting that killed four people in April.

The tiny town of rolling hills, farmhouses, one store and just over 3,000 people was rocked after a gunman went on a rampage four days after being released from prison.

Joseph Eaton, 34, killed his parents and two of their friends and two of their friends before opening fire on Interstate 295, a day after he alleged in a Facebook Live video that he was 'traumatized' after being 'molested'.

Eaton, who should never have been allowed to possess a firearm owing to past convictions, admitted to shooting dead his parents and their friends at a home in Bowdoin, before injuring three others on his highway rampage.

His previous crimes included felony aggravated assault, domestic violence and violence against a law enforcement officer.

Lisbon, a small town of 9,711 people, to the south east of Lewiston, also remained under lockdown on Thursday morning as the search for Card continued.

The shooting bears a chilling resemblance to a novel King wrote while he was still in high school in 1965, but didn't publish until 1977.

'Rage' tells the story of a disturbed Maine high-school student with authority problems who brings a gun to school, kills faculty members, and holds his Algebra class hostage.

But King subsequently asked for the book to be withdrawn from publication after the book was linked to four real-life school shootings.

In April 1988, a California student held his high school class hostage, later telling police he got the idea from 'Rage'.

A year later, a 17-year-old from Kentucky held his classmates hostage for nine hours in an apparent attempt to replicate the book.

In February 1996, a 14-year-old boy in Washington state who was apparently inspired by 'Rage' shot and killed his algebra teacher and two classmates.

In December 1997, a 14-year-old boy fired on a prayer group at his school in Kentucky while a copy of 'Rage' was in his locker.

King's novel 'Rage' tells the story of a disturbed Maine high-school student who carries out a school shooting. The novelist withdrew it from publication after a spate of copycat acts

King has said he doesn't believe the book alone caused those incidents, but that it may have been a 'possible accelerant' for those with troubled backgrounds.

In 2013, he published an anti-firearms essay titled 'Guns'.

The Maine shooter used an AR-15-style rifle, a firearm responsible for the majority of America's epidemic of mass shootings, sparking renewed debate over gun control.

Card was sectioned this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

Survivors have described how they escaped by fleeing down bowling lanes and hiding behind pins at the Sparetime Recreation alley as the gunman opened fire while children were playing - leaving 18 dead and 13 injured.

Maine has a fairly high level of gun ownership, and relatively lax laws: Roughly half of its households have firearms, according to research cited by Maine public radio last year.

There is no independent background check system, no red flag law to identify those at extreme risk for gun violence, no requirement that convicted domestic abusers turn in their guns and no permit requirements for concealed weapons.

Card, as a certified firearms instructor, would have had no problem in obtaining weapons.

But unlike many states with such a large supply, it sees relatively few fatal shootings each year: 89 percent of gun deaths are suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

Maine has a fairly high level of gun ownership, and relatively lax laws: Roughly half of its households have firearms, according to research cited by Maine public radio last year.

There is no independent background check system, no red flag law to identify those at extreme risk for gun violence, no requirement that convicted domestic abusers turn in their guns and no permit requirements for concealed weapons.

Card, as a certified firearms instructor, would have had no problem in obtaining weapons.

But unlike many states with such a large supply, it sees relatively few fatal shootings each year: 89 percent of gun deaths are suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.
Liz Truss today urged Rishi Sunak to rescind his invitation to China to attend next week's global summit on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Britain.

The Prime Minister is hosting the AI safety summit at Bletchley Park, the famous home of Britain's Second World War code-breakers, on Wednesday and Thursday.

But Ms Truss has written to Mr Sunak, her successor in Downing Street, to demand he put a last-minute block on China attending.

The ex-premier told the PM she was 'deeply disturbed' by the Government welcoming China to the summit, as she blasted Beijing's 'cavalier attitude' to international laws.

It came hours after Mr Sunak had used a Downing Street press conference to defend his invitation to China and stress that Britain had to 'engage' with Beijing on new technology.

The PM admitted it was still not '100 per cent' certain that any Chinese representatives would indeed attend next week's summit amid ongoing tensions with the West.

The Prime Minister is hosting an AI safety summit at Bletchley Park, the famous home of Britain's Second World War code-breakers, next Wednesday and Thursday

Liz Truss, pictured at the Conservative Party conference earlier this month, urged Rishi Sunak to rescind his invitation to China

In a letter to the PM, Ms Truss said she was 'deeply disturbed' by the Government welcoming China to the summit and blasted Beijing's 'cavalier attitude' to international laws

In her letter to Mr Sunak today, Ms Truss wrote: 'The regime in Beijing has a fundamentally different attitude to the West about AI, seeing it as a means of state control and a tool for national security.'

She noted how Britain had moved in recent years to strip out all Huawei equipment from the country's 5G networks due to spying fears over the Chinese firm's involvement.

'That was the correct call then and should have informed decisions about invitations to the Bletchley Park summit,' Ms Truss added in her letter.

'In any case, no reasonable person expects China to abide by anything agreed at this kind of summit, given their cavalier attitude to international law.

'I am therefore requesting that you reconsider the invitation you have extended to China to next week's summit.'

A number of Tory MPs, including former party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, had already criticised Mr Sunak's decision to invite China to the Bletchley Park gathering.

However, speaking at the Downing Street press conference today, the PM defended his action.

'I can't say with 100 per cent certainty that China will be there,' Mr Sunak said. 'But I do believe that it's absolutely the right thing to have invited them.

'China is unquestionably the world's second AI power behind the US. That's just a fact when you look at the amount of research, investment and activity that's happening there, and AI doesn't respect borders.

'So if you're seriously trying to address this issue, then it's right to try and engage with the world's leading AI powers.

'It doesn't mean it's going to be successful, it doesn't mean you're going to agree on everything.

'But you should certainly try and engage with them because a proper solution to AI over time is going to require an international solution.'

Mr Sunak admitted it was 'not an easy decision' to extend an invitation to Beijing, but argued it was 'very consistent' with the UK's foreign policy strategy.

He said this was 'to protect ourselves against threats that other countries, whoever they are, may pose to us' and to 'align ourselves in our approach with our allies which, when it comes to China, we are completely in lockstep with our closest allies like America, like Australia, like Canada, like Japan and others'.

'And, thirdly, to engage when it makes sense,' the PM added.

'When you're tackling global issues, whether it's climate change, pandemics or, indeed, AI, those issues require international collaboration.'

Downing Street said it would not be speculating on China's possible attendance at the summit.

The PM's official spokesman said: 'We want to secure the right group of countries, the right group of businesses, but I remain confident that we will have that.'
Humza Yousaf today said he will raise concerns that the murderer of young mother Claire Inglis was on bail to the judiciary - but cannot order an inquiry himself.

The First Minister added that the 'dreadful and tragic' murder by her boyfriend Christopher McGowan shows the need to do more to tackle domestic abuse.

Miss Inglis's parents Fiona and Ian watched from the public gallery at First Minister's Questions as Mr Yousaf spoke, a day after McGowan was jailed for at least 23 years.

The 'broken and lifeless body' of Miss Inglis, 28, had no fewer than 76 separate sites of injury when she was found at her home in the city of Stirling in November 2021.

McGowan, also 28, was jailed for life at Edinburgh 's High Court yesterday having been found guilty of murder following a trial at Stirling High Court last month.

Fiona and Ian Inglis, parents of the late Claire Inglis whose killer was jailed yesterday, sit in the public gallery during First Minster's Questions at the Scottish Parliament in Holyrood today

Scotland's First Minister Humza Yousaf at FMQs at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh today

The 'broken and lifeless body' of young mother Claire Inglis, 28, had 76 separate sites of injury

Conservative MSP Russell Findlay said: 'Fiona and Ian have found the strength to be here today, 24 hours after their daughter's killer was jailed.

'They are here for answers. Why was a violent criminal with dozens of convictions granted bail not just once or twice, but five times?'

He said the Government's recent Bail and Release from Custody Act makes it even harder to remand criminals in custody, and he urged the First Minister to launch an independent inquiry.

Mr Yousaf passed on his condolences to the Inglis family, saying: 'There cannot be anything more unnatural in this world than to have to bury your child.'

Decisions about cases of bail and remand are for the independent judiciary, he said, rather than the Government.

He added the Act makes clear that courts must consider victim safety when bail applications are made.

Mr Yousaf said he will convey the family's concerns to the Lord President - Scotland's most senior judge - and the Lord Advocate, who heads the Crown Office.

It would be seen as interference in the independent judiciary if a First Minister were to demand an inquiry, he added.

Mr Yousaf said: 'This dreadful case, this tragic case, reminds us of the need to do more to tackle not just domestic abuse but domestic homicide.'

A new domestic homicide review model is currently being developed, he said.

Earlier, Mr Findlay had told BBC's Good Morning Scotland: 'Yet again another woman has been catastrophically failed by the justice system.'

It comes after Judge Michael O'Grady yesterday jailed McGowan for life and ordered him to serve a minimum of 23 years behind bars for the 'beyond sadistic' murder of Miss Inglis.

In a sentencing statement later published online, Judge O'Grady said: 'To those who have not listened to the evidence in this trial, it is difficult to truly convey the utter brutality of the death you inflicted on Claire Inglis.

Claire Inglis was tortured and murdered in her own home, leaving behind a young son.



Her parents Fiona and Ian deserve answers. #FMQ pic.twitter.com/WJFBjILkfM  Russell Findlay (@RussellFindlay1) October 26, 2023

Christopher McGowan (right) was said to have shown 'cruelty and contempt' for Claire Inglis

The body of Claire Inglis was found at her home in the city of Stirling in November 2021

'By the time her broken and lifeless body was found, she had no fewer than 76 separate sites of injury.

'There is no need for me to dwell on the detail; there are those present today who have already heard too much to bear.

'The fact is, this young woman was not only murdered; she was subjected to nothing short of torture.

'I shudder to imagine what her last minutes were like. To describe what you did as sadistic falls woefully short of the mark. It was beyond sadistic.'

The judge said that while listening to evidence McGowan had shown 'not a flicker of emotion, not a hint of distress, not a shadow of remorse'.

He said McGowan has a long record of offending, beginning around 14 years ago, comprising some 39 previous convictions.

Scotland's procurator fiscal for homicide, Moira Orr, said the family of Ms Inglis have been left 'devastated'.

She said: 'This is a heartbreaking case of the murder of a young mother, Claire Inglis, by her abusive partner. Christopher McGowan showed cruelty and contempt for Claire, and his actions have left her family devastated.

'As prosecutors, we have worked to deliver justice for Claire. The case was carefully investigated by COPFS (Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service) working with Police Scotland, demonstrating that McGowan had displayed aggressive and controlling behaviour towards Claire prior to her murder.

'By not accepting responsibility for his actions, McGowan made Claire's family go through the ordeal of a trial.

Christopher McGowan (pictured in a police mugshot) has been jailed for at least 23 years

McGowan was jailed for life for the 'beyond sadistic' murder of Claire Inglis (pictured)

'Our prosecution team unpicked his deception, and this has resulted in his conviction for murder. Our thoughts are now of Claire, and we offer condolences to everyone who loved her.'

Detective Inspector Will Harley of Forth Valley CID said: 'Claire had a young family when her life was ended by this horrific attack.

'Her loved ones have been left absolutely devastated and our thoughts remain with them at this extremely difficult time.

'This was a horrendous crime which involved significant levels of violence. McGowan cruelly took Claire's life, showing complete disregard for her, her family, and her friends. Violence of this nature has no place in our society, and we will continue to work tireless to bring perpetrators to justice.'
A woman who was recorded proudly displaying an overtly anti-Semitic sign - suggesting the world needs to be 'cleaned' of Jews - during a pro-Palestinian rally Wednesday, has been identified.

Fahima Karim, a 19-year-old student at the Urban Assembly Institute of Math and Science for Young Women in Brooklyn, brandished the disturbing sign that featured the words 'Please Keep the World Clean' next to a Star of David in a trash can.

The incident occurred as she and fellow students, along with a teacher, skipped class to participate in a 'walkout' protest at Washington Square Park, where some NYU students were heard shouting anti-Semitic slurs, highlighting a concerning trend of increasing hatred towards Jews and Israel in New York.

This isn't the first time Fahima Karim has attracted attention online. She was previously featured in a video expressing a deep disdain for white people, saying she 'really don't give a f*** about white lives.'

'I don't like white people ... I just don't ... for no reason,' she said in the street interview.

Fahima Karim, 19 (holding pink sign), has been identified as the woman who was recorded proudly displaying a deeply anti-Semitic sign at a pro-Palestinian rally yesterday

Her Brooklyn school, Urban Assembly Institute of Math and Science for Young Women, issued a statement condemning her action and promising investigation

The same girl been on a viral video in 2021 where she said "white lifes don't matter". pic.twitter.com/nsfICU2yd1  daniel amram -   (@danielamram3) October 26, 2023

On Thursday, after significant backlash, the Brooklyn public school she currently attends issued a statement condemning her actions and promising a thorough investigation.

'Our mission at UAI has always been to support the voice and power of our young women.'

'Unfortunately today, at least one of our community members made a serious error in judgment. She exercised that voice and power to spread hate and anti Semitism. The image was captured and posted to social media, and that is how we discovered her choices.'

'Our mission is also about equity and rigor, and we vehemently condemn any action by any member of our community that spreads hatred or oppression. We are committed to righting the wrongs that led to this decision, and to embracing both the individual and the work she has before her, and our community and the community at large who was terribly damaged by her actions.'

Many people are now calling for her expulsion from educational institutions and urging colleges to deny her entry based on her openly hateful and discriminatory beliefs

In response to the backlash, Karim appears to have scrapped her social media profiles from online

The incident occurred as she and fellow students, along with a teacher, skipped class to participate in a 'walkout' protest at Washington Square Park, where some NYU students were heard shouting anti-Semitic slurs

'As next steps we will be conducting a thorough investigation to hold those individuals accountable for their actions. In addition, we will be using our restorative justice tools to heal the harm in our community and outside of our school. As we learn more and develop more details about our next steps, we will share that with you.'

Many people are now calling for her expulsion from educational institutions and urging colleges to deny her entry based on her openly hateful and discriminatory beliefs.

'Your student Fahima Karim is an anti-Semite, please act accordingly. You can not accept these students to be part of your university!' one said.

'Please retweet and help make sure that Fahima Karim never gets in to any Western university again,' another user tweeted on X.

Fahima Karim can either grow from this and treat it as a learning experience  or she can double down and live a life of hatred on the fringes of society; and completely unemployable,' a third said.

In response to the backlash, Karim appears to have removed her social media profiles from online platforms.

'Your 9/11 is their 24/7' read another of the signs at the protest on Wednesday

The young female protester's sign also read 'f**k Israel'. She is yet to be identified

Karim (far right) was previously featured in a video expressing a deep disdain for white people, saying she 'really don't give a f*** about white lives'

The school said it was working to verify the identity of the students with the offending signs

Another protester with the same sign at the protest in Manhattan on Wednesday

NYPD cops watch the protest in Washington Square Park on Wednesday

The students say they are demanding a 'divestment' of NYU funds from Israel

In the middle of the protest, a handful of young Jewish men sang and prayed in the face of the antiSemitic signs

The students gathered for the 'walkout' protest that was organized by Ryna Workman, a law student who previously called Hamas' attack on Israel 'necessary'.

There were dozens of Gen Z protesters in Washington Square Park, waving pride flags and wearing kaffiyehs, demanding 'freedom for Palestine' and a 'divestment' of Israel's 'genocidal regime'.

NYU spokesman John Beckman told DailyMail.com on Wednesday the school is working to verify the identities of the pair.

'These signs are antiSemitic, repugnant, and a disgrace. We don't know the identity of the people pictured, but we take this seriously and will be looking into it.

'To be clear, antiSemitism violates the University's rules and violators are subject to university conduct proceedings.'

At the same protest, a young Jewish man was hounded by pro-Palestine supporters who refused to answer him when he asked whether they supported Hamas.

The young protesters screamed and chanted, led by Workman.

It is the latest in a string of antiSemitic or anti-Israel incidents in the city.

Over the weekend, middle-aged adults were filmed ripping up and taking down posters of Israeli child hostages.

Cheddar reporter Katie Sands Bochman, who is Jewish, was walking her dog through the park at the time of the protest.

She approached the young woman holding the antiSemitic sign and asked for her name.

'She looked really scared and wouldn't give it to me. They are inciting a lot of violence and they were very aggressive, but mostly wearing masks which is so cowardly,' Sands Bochman told DailyMail.com.

'They don't want their faces shown, but they're happy to incite violence.'

She said that after confronting the youth with the antiSemitic sign, some of the other protesters asked to pet her dog.

'I don't know if they know what they're chanting or who they're following. They are so uneducated. It scares me for our country.

'They are following very dangerous people just, by the looks of things, to feel like they are a part of something.'
He told the Judiciary Committee there was 'reluctance' by the FBI to aggressively pursue leads he found connected to Biden

There was 'reluctance' by the FBI to aggressively pursue leads connected to Joe and Hunter Biden's ties to corrupt Ukrainian oil company Burisma, a former top prosecutor reveals.

Former U.S. Attorney Scott Brady sat for a transcribed interview with House Judiciary Committee members and staff this week as Republicans ramp up their investigation into the Biden family's foreign business dealings.

Brady, the former top prosecutor in Pittsburgh, was tasked by former Attorney General Bill Barr in 2020 with investigating 'allegations of Ukrainian corruption broadly,' which he said expanded to President Joe Biden's son Hunter's role on the board of energy company Burisma Holdings.

According to his testimony reviewed by DailyMail.com, Brady told congressional investigators that 'there was reluctance on the part of the FBI to really do any tasking related to our assignment.'

Brady revealed that there were tensions between himself, U.S. Attorney David Weiss - the lead prosecutor in the probe into Hunter's alleged gun and tax crimes - and the FBI.

Brady called it a 'challenging working relationship' during his testimony, going so far as to label it 'problematic.'

According to the conversation between a confidential source and Burisma CFO Vadim Pojarski in 2015, Hunter Biden was hired onto the company's board to 'protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems'

In one instance, he said that now-Special Counsel Weiss actually missed an important briefing on allegations of bribery by the Bidens.

To Brady, that signaled the Justice Department's reluctance to pursue those leads.

On another occasion, he recounted that 17 individuals within the FBI had to sign off on one assignment under his jurisdiction - an unheard of amount of oversight that he had never experienced previously.

He added that 'never in my career' had he seen an approval chain that massive.

In addition, Brady stated that FBI special agents were directed by leadership to go 'pens down,' meaning they could not take any investigative actions - for weeks - while waiting for approvals.

He called it 'incredibly frustrating,' and frequently used to delay his ability to verify information they uncovered related to the Bidens.

During Brady's review of the Biden-connected Ukraine dealings, he told the Judiciary Committee that an internal FBI document created by a 'highly credible' informant was discovered detailing an alleged bribery scheme.

As previously reported by DailyMail.com, the FD-1023 document included bombshell claims that Joe Biden and his son Hunter forced a Ukrainian oil executive to pay them $10 million in exchange for the then-vice president's influence in getting a senior prosecutor fired.

Joe was allegedly bribed by Mykola Zlochevsky, the owner Ukrainian gas firm Burisma, with $5million, according to information received by a trusted FBI informant

According to the conversation between a confidential source and Burisma CFO Vadim Pojarski in 2015, Hunter Biden was hired onto the company's board to 'protect us, through his dad, from all kinds of problems.'

Burisma CEO Mykola Zlochevsky told the source: 'It costs 5 (million) to pay one Biden, and 5 (million) to another Biden.'

Zlochevsky added that, although Hunter 'was stupid,' and his (Zlochevsky's) dog was smarter, he was needed on the board 'so everything will be okay.'

DailyMail.com previously reported that the 17 audio recordings of phone calls - two of Joe Biden and 15 of Hunter Biden - were kept as an 'insurance policy' by Zlochevsky.

The FBI FD-1023 form was created on June 30, 2020 based on information from a highly-paid informant and brought to the attention of Republicans by a whistleblower.

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, obtained and published the document after a months-long back-and-forth between the top Republican and the FBI through 'legally protected disclosures' by Department of Justice whistleblowers.

In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland obtained by DailyMail.com this week, Grassley said that at least 40 sources within different FBI field offices and supplied the bureau with details of potential crimes by the Bidens.

Former U.S. Attorney Scott Brady sat for a transcribed interview with House Judiciary Committee members and staff this week

The FD-1023 document included bombshell claims that Joe Biden and his son Hunter forced a Ukrainian oil executive to pay them $10 million in exchange for the then-vice president's influence in getting a senior prosecutor fired

In addition, according to the letter, Grassley learned that an FBI task force within the Washington Field Office sought to, and managed to, successfully shut down reporting from those sources by falsely discrediting the information.

Brady's probe included tips brought by former Trump attorney Rudy Giuliani - who in 2019 claimed that he had proof that Burisma laundered $3 million through Hunter.

But he told congressional investigators that Giuliani was not the source in the FD-1023 form.

He also added that the source was re-interviewed in June 2020 following the original claims made in a 2017 disclosure.

Brady's testimony comes a month after House Republicans launched an official impeachment inquiry into Joe's connections to his family's shady business dealings.

They are also probing alleged politicization on the part of DOJ during its investigation into the president's son.
A female teacher allegedly sent nudes to a 16-year-old student and then invited him over for sex while her husband was out of town.

Rikki Lynn Laughlin, 24, sent the explicit photos to the boy at St. James High School in Missouri - where Laughlin worked as a special education teacher, according to Maries County Sheriff Department.

The married mother-of-one faces six felony charges for allegedly pursuing the 16-year-old, sending him pornographic images and soliciting photos from him.

Laughlin married Grant Laughlin, 23, in June 2022 and the pair have a one-year-old daughter.

The teacher posts frequently on her social media accounts - where she has shared snaps of her spending time with her baby and husband, riding horses, posing with rifles and waving Trump flags.

Rikki Lynn Laughlin, 24, posing with her husband Grant Laughlin in a Facebook post from September 2021. The pair married the following year

Laughlin her husband and their daughter pictured together at Christmas

Rikki Lynn Laughlin, 24, allegedly sent and solicited pornographic images from a 16-year-old student at the school she taught at

The interactions between Laughlin and the student took place mostly over Snapchat - where she allegedly sent him an explicit video of her performing a sex act.

The alleged victim claimed that they had also kissed and said that 'things progressed fast' after she had reached out to him on Snapchat.

Laughlin invited him over to her family home while her husband was out of town to have sex, according to the child.

The teen told cops he made excuses to not meet Laughlin for sex at her house because 'he did not feel comfortable,' according to the detective's report.

After people began 'talking' at the school - Laughlin became worried and asked the student to delete all of the pictures they exchanged, telling him she could go to jail if the images and videos were discovered.

After the school district that employed Laughlin reported the relationship - a detective visited the student at his home and they were able to find some of the nude photographs and explicit content that had been exchanged.

Maries County Sheriff's Office made a probable cause statement alleging that Laughlin did not deny receiving the photos - but insisted that the student had initiated their 'inappropriate relationship'.

Laughlin claimed: 'I was not aware he was a minor until yesterday.'

The age of consent in Missouri is 17.

After Laughlin gave cops permission to search through her phone - the detective found a video like the one the 16-year-old had described.

The teacher posts frequently on her social media accounts - where she has shared snaps of her spending time with her baby and husband, riding horses and posing with rifles

The teacher waving a Trump flag in a Facebook post ahead of the 2020 election

The accused is pictured with her husband

After people began 'talking' at the school, Laughlin became worried and asked the student to delete all of the pictures they exchanged, telling him she could go to jail if the images and videos were discovered (pictured: St. James High School in Missouri)

The interactions between Laughlin and the student took place mostly over Snapchat - where she allegedly sent him an explicit video of her performing a sex act

Laughlin now faces charges of possession of child pornography, tampering with a victim, tampering with physical evidence and the sexual trafficking of a child. Along with those charges - she also faces one misdemeanor count of furnishing pornographic materials to minors

A user on Reddit claimed they were a fellow classmate of the alleged victim. They said: 'I go to St. James and honestly this shook me to my core, knowing there was a teacher involving themselves with students I know scared me. what if this happened to me or my friends?

'What really got to me was how people reacted. when the student came back to school everyone started congratulating him, praising him and people on Snapchat are posting about how pretty she is and how lucky he was, that is absolutely disgusting.'

Laughlin now faces charges of possession of child pornography, tampering with a victim, tampering with physical evidence and the sexual trafficking of a child.

Along with those charges - she also faces one misdemeanor count of furnishing pornographic materials to minors.

Just one of the charges that Laughlin faces could land her more than 20 years in prison.

She is next due in court for a bond hearing on November 14.
Aristocrat Constance Marten and her boyfriend have today denied killing their newborn daughter.

Marten, 36, and Mark Gordon, 49, sparked a massive 54-day police hunt after they went on the run with baby Victoria in January this year.

The baby was later found dead in a plastic bag in a shed under a heap of nappies on a Brighton allotment.

Appearing at the Old Bailey in London today, Marten and Gordon denied the manslaughter of Victoria by gross negligence, concealment of the birth of a child and perverting the course of justice. They also denied child cruelty and causing or allowing the death of a child between January 4 and February 27.

Wearing a white jumper and black trousers, Marten appeared at the Old Bailey carrying a blue folder, while Gordon wore a grey tracksuit with a green skull cap. Gordon shouted his not guilty pleas while Marten said she was 'absolutely not guilty' and 'definitely not guilty' as she denied the offences.

Judge Mark Lucraft, KC, the Recorder of London, later told the couple off for talking in the dock.

Aristocrat Constance Marten, 36, has denied killing her newborn daughter

Marten, 36, and her partner Mark Gordon, 49, pleaded not guilty to five counts

'I'm just going to ask the two defendants if they don't mind not having a private conversation. This is your trial we're discussing and if you're going to have a private conversation it's not very courteous to everyone.'

Marten's father Napier Marten, a former page to the late Queen, watched from the well of the court wearing a green jacket and purple tie and pocket square.

The six-week trial is set for January next year and the couple will next appear for a case management hearing on December 8.

Gudrun Young, KC, representing Marten, suggested the trial date may be too soon, but prosecutor Joel Smith argued it should take place as planned.

Flowers left for Victoria. Police found her remains at a Brighton allotment in March

A sketch of Marten (left) and Gordon (right) with a dock officer at the Old Bailey on March 31

Hundreds of officers from the Metropolitan Police and Sussex Police, as well as search and rescue volunteers, scoured 90 square miles of land in the search for the baby.

The couple were caught on CCTV wearing heavy outdoor clothing and carrying bags down the street before they were arrested.

They were reported missing on January 5 after their car caught fire on the M61 near Bolton.

It is thought Marten had given birth just a few days before and had not been assessed by medical professionals.

Over the following days, there were sightings of them in a number of places, including Liverpool, Essex, south London and East Sussex.

The couple had allegedly been sleeping rough in a blue tent and had avoided being traced.
A seven-year-old boy has been struck and killed by an NYPD truck while crossing the road in Fort Green, Brooklyn with his mother.

The tragic collision occurred around 7:43 am on Thursday at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and North Portland Avenue in Fort Greene, just above Fort Greene Park.

The tow truck turned right from Myrtle Avenue onto North Portland Avenue, striking the boy as he and his mother crossed the street, NYPD Chief Jeffrey Maddrey said in a statement.

The boy was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.

The 54-year-old female driver, whose name has not yet been released, remained at the scene after being flagged down by witnesses a block away from the scene.

A seven-year-old boy has been struck and killed by an NYPD truck while crossing the road in Fort Green, Brooklyn with his mother

The tragic collision occurred around 7:43 am on Thursday at the corner of Myrtle Avenue and North Portland Avenue in Fort Greene, just above Fort Greene Park

Tyrana Carter, a witness to the collision told the New York Times the boy was riding a bright green scooter alongside his mother, who was pushing another child in a stroller.

Carter said the driver of the tow truck appeared to be trying to beat a yellow light when she struck the boy.

'When she came around the corner, she hit the kid and she rolled over him,' she said.

Carter said her granddaughter went to day care with the boy who was killed.

'He was a baby who was full of energy, full of life,' she said, 'I saw a future for him.'

Another witness, Antwoan Hayes, said the distraught mother chased the tow truck down the street following the collision, screaming that the driver had killed her baby.

'The mother just started screaming at the highest pitch, that was heart-wrenching.' Hayes told The Times.

Mary Lynne Werlwas, who has lived in the neighborhood for 24 years, told the New York Times that she came across the scene on her way to move her car.

'The community, everybody is very upset,' a local woman said

A witness said the driver of the tow truck appeared to be trying to beat a yellow light when she struck the boy

Jeffrey Maddrey, the NYPD's chief of department said in a briefing that he had visited the site of the collision, as did several teachers from the victim's school

Werlwas said she saw a woman in the street and a body covered by a white sheet.

The woman was screaming 'my baby is dead', she recalled.

'The community, everybody is very upset,' she added.

Jeffrey Maddrey, the NYPD's chief of department said in a briefing that he had visited the site of the collision, as did several teachers from the victim's school.

'It was a very tough scene to be at this morning,' he said.

An investigation into the tragic incident is ongoing and it is not yet clear if the tow truck driver will face charges.

The boy was the 73rd pedestrian killed in a traffic accident in the city this year, according to safety advocacy group Transportation Alternatives.
Two migrants picked up while trying to cross the Channel and given hotel rooms at taxpayers' expense have been jailed for attempting to enter the UK illegally.

Rashed Abdullah, 34, who is from Sudan, and Egyptian Ramadn Refaiy, 26, were sentenced to 16 months and a year behind bars respectively.

Adullah had previously been caught attempting to reach the UK as a stowaway in a lorry, while Refaiy said he was seeking NHS treatment.

But a judge was told that - bizarrely - the men did not face automatic deportation once they were released despite both admitting the offence.

The case comes following a crackdown on migrants risking their lives to make the perilous crossing from France as part of Rishi Sunak's pledge to 'Stop the boats'.

Pictured: Egyptian Ramadn Refaiy, 26, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for illegally crossing the Channel

Pictured: Rashed Abdullah, 34, who is from Sudan was sentenced to 16 months behind bars for trying to illegally enter the UK

Ministers say legislation introduced last year  before Mr Sunak became PM - which means anyone who arrives in the UK without proper permission is committing a crime resulting in to up to four years in prison will serve as a much-needed deterrent.

However refugee groups say desperate people fleeing conflict-torn countries such as Sudan have no legal alternative that would enable them to enter Britain and claim asylum, with claims the new law 'demonises' them.

A BBC investigation last December found that just 0.3 per cent of approximately 29,400 people who had arrived in small boats since the new law was introduced had been arrested for arriving illegally in the UK.

The two men separately attempted to cross the Channel in August this year, in inflatables packed with over 50 migrants each, a court heard.

Abdullah, who had travelled to northern France via Italy, told Border Force officers that he attempted to reach the UK in a lorry last year and had lied about his identity when interviewed, according to the Home Office.

Refaiy  who had been piloting the overcrowded vessel - admitted that he had planned to work illegally in the UK, it said.

Pictured: Refaiy getting off the small boat in Kent after being picked up by UK Border Force

Both defendant arrived on boats packed with around 50 migrants

Shocking images taken by Border Force officers show his boat packed with dozens of migrants sat in front of dangerous fuel cans.

A small child without a life jacket can be seen sitting on the floor of the boat, where fuel-contaminated water can pool on top of makeshift flooring.

Both men were jailed at Chester Crown Court this week after they pleaded guilty to attempting to arrive in the UK illegally.

The pair were intercepted by UK Border Force officials before being taken to a holding facility in Kent, the court heard.

Fingerprint checks revealed that Abdullah had attempted to enter the country illegally last year in the back of a lorry before he was found in Calais.

However on that occasion he gave a different name and claimed to be from Eritrea.

Abdullah sought indefinite leave to remain in the UK and was transported more than 200 miles and put up at a Holiday Inn in Warrington, Cheshire where he was interviewed by immigration officers.

There he admitted both attempts to enter the UK, saying he had left Sudan, travelling through safe countries where he could have sought asylum, including Italy and France.

Meanwhile Refaiy had been piloting the vessel on which he attempted to cross the Channel, according to photographs taken of the boat.

However when Border Force officials approached, he changed position.

Pictured: Contents left in a small boat after rescue from UK Border Force

After being rescued and interviewed, he was housed at the four star Daresbury Park Hotel, also in Cheshire.

Refaiy said he had been given a 'half price discount' of 800 euros by people smugglers in exchange for steering.

He claimed he had left Egypt to seek medical treatment on the NHS due to being in pain having had a kidney removed and sought asylum.

But he also admitted that he had planned to work illegally in the UK, and the court was told that a 'no reasonable grounds decision' had been made in his case.

The court was told that Abdullah had been a 'civil rights activist' and gave a false name when he first attempted Britain because he was 'afraid of what would happen to him'.

Refaiy claimed to be fleeing 'persecution' in Egypt, saying his family were singled out after the country's government seized their farmland to build on.

Abdullah admitted knowingly attempting to arrive in the UK without a valid entry clearance. Refaiy admitted arriving in the UK without a valid entry clearance.

However while courts have power in certain cases to order the automatic deportation of foreign offenders once they have completed their sentence, the court heard the crime they had admitted was not one of them.

Instead, the Home Office said it would be working 'to identify whether both criminals can be returned to their countries of origin'.

A BBC investigation last December found that just 0.3 per cent of approximately 29,400 people who had arrived in small boats since the new law was introduced had been arrested for arriving illegally in the UK

Pictures from the Channel show increasingly precarious boats being sent into one of the world's most dangerous shipping lanes as human smugglers continue to show a disregard for life

Sentencing them, the judge, Recorder Lawrence McDonald, commented that 'people smugglers' who 'profit from the death and desperation of others' were 'deserving of the most serious punishment'.

But despite neither Abdullah nor Refaiy being accused of masterminding the crossing attempt, he told them there was 'huge public concern about people smuggler activity, and rightly so'.

'There is the risk of death and injury that each of you ran on your own behalf, but there is also the risk of death and injury to other passengers in those overcrowded boats and to those whose duty it is to intercept and/or rescue people,' the judge said.

'Each of you knew that you were deliberately attempting to break the laws of this country.

'Each of you knew that you were trying to arrive in the UK in an unlawful manner  nobody can possibly claim otherwise.'

Afterwards Tony Hilton, assistant director of the Home Office Criminal and Financial Investigation Unit, said: 'These criminals put themselves and others in grave danger to reach the UK, having already passed through multiple safe European countries.

'It is right that they have been brought to justice today.

'We're doing everything we can to stop the boats and prosecute those who enter our country illegally.'

According to the Home Office, the number of people detected crossing the English Channel in the year to October was down by a quarter compared to 2022.

Calling for the pair to be deported once they have served their time, Alp Mehmet, Chairman of Migration Watch UK, said: 'The guilty verdict is an important milestone. Such cases have rarely gone to trial due to the CPS's reluctance to agree to charges being brought believing it unlikely that guilt could be proven.

This verdict clearly shows that it is possible and should be the green light to similar charges being brought. Deportation should follow immediately on a custodial sentence being served and arrangements should be in hand now for this to happen.'
President Joe Biden called the mass-shooting in Maine 'another senseless and tragic' event and urged residents to 'heed the warnings and guidance of local officials' as the suspect remains at large.

He also said the federal government wasn't doing enough to deter such events and called on Republicans in Congress to work with him on legislation to ban assault rifles and expand background checks.

'Today, in the wake of yet another tragedy, I urge Republican lawmakers in Congress to fulfill their duty to protect the American people. Work with us to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, to enact universal background checks, to require safe storage of guns, and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers.

'This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars  physical and mental  of this latest attack.'

At least 18 people were killed in Maine during Wednesday night's mass shooting at Sparetime Recreation and Schemengees Bar and Grille in Lewiston. And 13 people were injured according to Maine Gov. Janet Mills.

President Biden called Maine shooting 'senseless'

And White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Thursday that more must be done.

'This is not normal. We cannot accept this. There have been literally hundreds of mass shootings in the last year alone, leaving empty seats at dinner tables across the country. And leaving those who survive these heinous acts, both physically and mentally scarred,' she said.

'We need to make sure that weapons of wars are not in community. We need to take more action that are common sense, common sense, gun laws that the majority of Americans want to see,' she said. 'And so it is for House Republicans to listen to their constituents and listen to Americans across the country.'

Biden stepped out of Wednesday night's state dinner for Australia to be briefed by his advisors on the latest mass shooting.

He also called Maine officials - Gov. Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Representative Jared Golden - to offer federal support.

The president also left the state dinner early, shortly after 10pm. Biden has been using his executive power to work to combat gun violence given that legislative efforts have gotten stuck on Capitol Hill.

In 2022, Congress passed major gun legislation although it did not contain all the items Biden had pushed for. It expanded background checks and provided millions of dollars for mental health services and school security initiatives.

Biden has advocated for re-instating the national assault weapons ban but with Republicans now in control of the House and Democrats running the Senate, passing legislation on Capitol Hill is a tough prospect.

In addition to his statement on Thursday, Biden ordered flags at the White House and federal buildings to half-staff until October 30.

Mills said she has spoken about the shooting twice with President Biden, as well as Vice President Kamala Harris.

Harris on Thursday said that Lewiston became yet another community torn apart by senseless gun violence.

'Doug and I mourn for those who were killed and grieve for those who were injured,' she said.

'We must continue to speak truth about the moment we are in today,' she said, noting gun violence is the leading cause of death.

'It does not have to be this way, as our friends in Australia have demonstrated,' she noted in remarks at the State Department.

Other officials expressed their support for the victims and their families with Republican statements focused on prayers.

New House Speaker Mike Johnson said 'our hearts go out to all those involved.'

'This is a this is a dark time in America. We have a lot of problems and we're really, really hopeful and prayerful. Prayer is appropriate at a time like this,' he told reporters in the Capitol on Thursday morning.

'So, that's the statement this morning on behalf of the entire House of Representatives. Everyone wants this to end, and I'll leave it there.'

Police have named previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest. Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting

The gunman targeted Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston at around 7pm on Wednesday before shooting at the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston, Maine

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell called for the suspect to be brought to justice.

'I was devastated to hear the news last night of a deadly shooting in Lewiston, Maine. I know the entire Senate stands behind our colleagues, Senator Collins and Senator King, as they help their state marshal its response,' he said.

'We pray especially for the victims of this senseless violence, for their families, and for the law enforcement personnel working tirelessly to save lives and bring the suspect to justice.'

The suspect remained at large overnight sparking a massive manhunt and lockdown across the state.

Police have named previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest. Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting.

The FBI, ATF and U.S. Marshals are providing investigative support and victim assistance services in connection with the Maine shootings, Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement Thursday.

'I am heartbroken for those who have lost loved ones, for those who have been injured, and for the entire Lewiston community,' he said. 'No community should have to endure the horrific mass shootings that have become routine in our country.'

Author Stephen King responded to the shootings Thursday morning in a pair of posts on X, formerly known as Twitter.

'The shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon. Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder,' he wrote.

Stretchers are lined up outside the emergency room at Central Maine Medical Center following shootings in Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via AP)

Biden stepped away from the state dinner honoring Australia for a briefing on the shooting with his advisers, before returning. But he later left the dinner early

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine

Maine doesn't require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday before targeting Schemengees Bar and Grille around four miles away.

The suspect is 'considered armed and dangerous,' Mills said at a press conference Thursday morning.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

A police bulletin describes the suspect, Card, as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

It did not provide details about his treatment or condition, but said Card had reported 'hearing voices and threats to shoot up' the military base.
A 10-year-old girl who was shot during the Maine bowling alley massacre has described the harrowing moment she thought was going to die - after a gunman went on a rampage and killed at least 18 people and injured 13 more in Lewiston.

Little Zoey Levesque, who said she 'never thought she would grow up and get a bullet in her leg', was among those wounded when the gunman burst in and opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle last night.

The young girl, who was practicing with her children's bowling league, was 'grazed by a bullet' while fleeing with her mother before they eventually managed to get away and barricade themselves into a room at the back.

Mother Riley Dumont was also in the bowling alley with her 11-year-old daughter, and her parents, when her retired police officer father corralled their family into a corner and covered them with tables to protect them.

The city of Lewiston is on lockdown as police hunt for previously sectioned Robert Card, a 40-year-old US Army reserve firearms instructor who recently reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

Survivors and bereaved family members have started to speak out following the bloody massacre which started at Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at around 7pm local time (12am BST) and continued at nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille.

It comes amid fears that Card - whose car was found abandoned in Lisbon after the shooting - has crossed states into Massachusetts. Police also believe he may have made his getaway on a jet ski.

After early figures suggested up to 22 were killed, Maine State Police confirmed in a press conference this afternoon that the death toll was 18 - seven victims were killed in the bowling alley, eight were found at the bar and three died in hospital.

"I never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg."



10-year-old Zoey is unable to comprehend the horrific crime scene she witnessed after her leg was grazed by a bullet in the Maine mass shooting. https://t.co/wIvn53do9j pic.twitter.com/1jMJe0oZ7S  ABC News (@ABC) October 26, 2023

Zoey, 10, questioned 'why do people do this' as she sat beside her mother Meghan Hutchinson the morning after they survived the shocking attack at Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston

Police have named previously sectioned Army reserve firearms instructor Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest. Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting

The body of a victim in the Maine massacre shooting which killed at least 18 people has been wheeled out of the bar targeted by the gunman - as cops fear he may have crossed into Massachusetts with a 'nightscope'

Law enforcement move body bags out of Schemengee's Bar and Grille

The gunman targeted Sparetime Recreation (pictured) in Lewiston at around 7pm on Wednesday before shooting at the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille

They have issued an arrest warrant for the murder suspect for the eight victims who have been identified so far. 10 victims have not yet been identified.

Harrowing images have emerged this afternoon of body bags being wheeled out of the bar where the gunman targeted as the community comes to terms with the tragedy.

Speaking about her survival story, Zoey told CNN: 'I never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg. Like, why do people do this?

'I was more worried about, like, am I going to live and I going to make it out of here. Like, what's going to happen? Are the cops going to come?'

Her mother Meghan Hutchinson told ABC: 'She was grazed by a bullet while we were running.'

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive - was bleeding profusely. So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911.'

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday before targeting Schemengees Bar and Grille around four miles away.

Leroy Walker, whose son managed the bar, said he is convinced his son is dead.

'If you had my gut right now, I feel like I'm squashed with a vice,' Walker told NBC. 'My neck in the back of my head feels like there's a vice squashing it the other way.'

'And I don't know, telling you the truth, what kind of night this is going to be from now until tomorrow when I wake up to the true facts that my son is dead - and I know he's dead.

The gunman, wearing a brown hoodie, is seen in Lewiston on Wednesday night. Police believe it is Robert Card

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston

Police officers in tactical gear get ready in the Lisbon High School gymnasium as an active search for the shooter is underway

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 18 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

Police issued a photo of this car which they believe belongs to Card. Sheriffs said at 11:20pm on Wednesday the car was found abandoned in the town of Lisbon, about seven miles away

This is Card's last known address in Bowdoin, Maine

'I know it as well as I know I'm standing here telling you because he's not here and he's not at any other hospital and he's not running the streets or he would have called us, because he manages Schemengees, so I know he was there.'

Survivors have described how they escaped by fleeing down bowling lanes and hiding behind pins as the gunman used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire while children were playing - with teenagers among the injured.

One Lewiston mother, Riley Dumont, was in the bowling alley with her daughter, and her parents, including her retired police officer father who leaped into action and saved several people's lives.

'I heard a really loud bang. I didn't think anything of it at the time, but my dad looked at me,' Dumont told ABC.

'Next thing I know, he was just taking the group that we were in and just corralling us in the corner,' she said.

'He put tables over us and just made sure we were safe. He just kind of went into action at that point. It felt like it lasted forever.'

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well.'

Jessica Karcher said one of the wounded was her son Justin Karcher, who was shot in the spine and kidneys and was in surgery. He witnessed his father, Jean Karcher, being shot and killed in 2019 during an altercation in a Walmart parking lot, according to Lewiston's Sun Journal newspaper.

Chilling CCTV images show Card, from Bowdoin, Maine, pointing his rifle as he walked into the bowling alley, while dramatic footage shows terrified people running for their lives.

One bowler, who only identified himself by his first name Brandon, said he heard 10 shots ring out before he ran down the alley barefoot and climbed inside the bowling machinery to hide from the gunman.

Describing the moment that the shooter opened fire, Brandon said: 'We were inside, just a normal night of bowling. Out of nowhere he just came in and there was a loud pop.

Card remains on the run: police have said he is driving a white Subaru

Tactical team members get ready to head back out to search for the suspect of a shooting in Lisbon

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night. The venue is pictured above

The gunman then moved onto the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille, pictured above

'I thought it was a balloon, I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon, he was holding a weapon, I just booked it down the lane and I slid basically in where the pins are and climbed on the machine.

Brandon, who stayed on top of the machines for about ten minutes until the cops arrived, said that the gunman was around 15ft behind him. 'He was close, very close,' he added.

'I just went there to bowl by myself and I wasn't even in there 10 minutes, I just walked in the place. I was putting on my bowling shoes when it started. I've been barefoot for five hours.'

Jason J. Levesque told CNN that the youngest victims of the shootings were teenagers, adding that trauma specialists and grief councillors were at the scene.

The bowling alley said in a statement: 'None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is... We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and wholehearted people from our bowling family and community last night. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts.'

'In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason,' Schemengees posted on its Facebook page. 'How can we make any sense of this.'

Maine's governor Janet Mills says 18 people were killed and 13 were injured in while Lewiston councillor Robert McCarthy said the town was struggling to handle 'this kind of a shooting event.'

Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card who was sectioned this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine

As officials were seen wheeling a body bag out of Schemengees on Thursday morning, audio from police dispatchers indicates they believe the suspect has crossed the border to Massachusetts - armed with a nightscope

A distraught Maine councilor has said he knows his son was killed in the shooting - though authorities are yet to confirm - while a 10-year-old girl has spoken about being grazed by a stray bullet

Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as hundreds of police fanned out across Maine.

'Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings,' Maine State police said on Facebook.

Lisbon Chief of police Ryan McGee has called the entire police department to assist in the search and closed local businesses.

Marine records seen by DailyMail.com show that Card registered a 2019 Sea Doo jet ski in his name in June, sparking fears that he could have used the watercraft to flee investigators after opening fire.

Meanwhile audio from police dispatchers indicates they believe the suspect has crossed the border to Massachusetts - while armed with a nightscope.

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Centre on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search.

Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records to build a timeline of his movements before the shooting.

The mayor of Auburn, a town next to Lewistown, said on TODAY that some of the witnesses thought the rampage was a Halloween prank.

Jason Levesque said: 'They thought it was some sort of Halloween joke or something, the initial pops if you would, until everything started escalating quite rapidly.'

An unnamed mother asked for prayers for her 22-year-old son, who was hit four times and is on a ventilator. She told WMTV about 20 other people were waiting for updates on their loved ones at the hospital.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

A police bulletin describes the suspect, Card, as a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

It did not provide details about his treatment or condition, but said Card had reported 'hearing voices and threats to shoot up' the military base.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

The death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

U.S. President Joe Biden has spoken to state officials to offer the federal government's support and ordered flags to be flown at half-mast until Monday to honour the victims, his office said.

'This is a frightening, frightening situation,' White House spokesman John Kirby told MSNBC. 'More needs to be done to get these weapons of war off the streets and out of people's hands walking around Walmarts and grocery stores and bowling alleys.'
A father accused of shooting dead the Maryland judge who granted his wife's divorce last week has been found dead.

Pedro Argote went on the run after Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, was gunned down on the driveway of his Hagerstown home on October 19 in front of his family.

The judge had banned Argote, 49, from seeing his family and ordered him to pay $1,120 per month in child support after hearing about a 'shocking' litany of abuses meted out by the father-of-five.

Argote's Mercedes SUV was found abandoned in a wooded area south of Hagerstown on Saturday.

The suspect's body was found today a mile away from the car, Washington County Sheriff's Office confirmed.

The body of Pedro Argote, 49, was found this morning, a week after he was named by the Washington County Sheriff's Office as the suspect in the murder of Judge Andrew Wilkinson

Maryland judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, was killed on his driveway in front of his family

Wilkinson had served as an associate circuit court judge in Washington County since 2020. He was pictured at his swearing in ceremony on January 10, 2020, alongside his wife Stephanie

'The deceased was located in a heavily wooded area between Clear Spring Road and Bottom Road approximately one mile northwest of where the suspect vehicle was found,' the office added in a statement.

'The deceased individual has been positively identified as Pedro Argote, the suspect wanted for the murder of Maryland Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson.'

News of his death came just hours after court recordings were released of testimony given by Argote's family hours before he disappeared.

His adult daughter said he confined her to her bedroom for most of her teenage years and would beat her with 'whatever he had close by,' Washington County Court heard.

The father-of-four installed cameras throughout their Frederick home and was 'watching my every move,' she said, while his wife Eugenia said he would stuff a towel into their crying baby's mouth.

The daughter said she cut off contact with her father after leaving home at 18 to escape his abuse.

'The reason I worked up the courage to testify was so that my siblings wouldn't have to go through the mental torment that I currently have,' she told the court.

Argote's wife Eugenia on a road trip with some of the family's five children

Maryland State Troopers were dispatched to the homes of other judges in the area and remained until Friday morning

The driveway of the Hagerstown home where Judge Wilkinson was killed in front of his family

At an earlier hearing in March, Judge Wilkinson said he had 'the uneasy sense that Father engages in absolute control over Mother, their finances and their lives.'

On the day of his death, Wilkinson said the family dynamics had become 'crystal clear' and denied Argote visitation rights to his four younger children, ages 12, 11, 5 and 3.

'The manner in which Mr. Argote has isolated these children and mom over the past two years, I think that has gone on throughout the marriage, and it's shocking,' the judge said.

'I think he is abusive in multiple ways.'

In his judgment, Wilkinson ruled Argote's wife would have 'sole use and possession of the family home', and that the father was not to enter the property.

But Argote was not in court to hear the damning judgement having phoned in to say he had a 'headache'.

'I'm not sure that I find that believable,' Wilkinson said, explaining his decision to proceed.

Eugenia's attorney Erika Garrott Johnson told the court he was afraid to hear his family's evidence, 'and because he knows the writing is on the wall'.

Attorney Ashley Wilburn, representing the children, said she was worried for their safety, 'particularly in light of the fact that Mr. Argote did not show up today.'

But it was Judge Wilkinson who was in mortal danger after returning that evening to his home in Hagerston.

His wife Stephanie was at home with their son at 8pm as the judge was gunned down on the driveway, succumbing to his injuries a little while later in hospital.

Tributes poured in for the popular judge who volunteered as a Little League baseball and youth soccer coach, while being active in his local church.

US Senator Ben Cardin offered 'condolences to Judge Wilkinson's family, friends and all those touched by his public service'.

'No one should have to endure the anguish of having a loved one ripped away in such a manner,' he continued in a statement.

The judge's murder sparked a nationwide hunt for Argote who disappeared in his Mercedes

Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert had told reporters police were 'actively working' to apprehend Argote for the 'targeted attack' on the judge

'There is no excuse for this kind of violence, especially against an officer of the court. The rule of law is what makes our society work. It may not be perfect, but individuals like Judge Wilkinson worked to make it better and more just every day.

'His passion clearly was for serving his local community and for this, Judge Wilkinson will be sorely missed.'

Maryland Congressman David Trone said he was 'shocked and heartbroken' by the killing, adding: 'This violence is horrifying to see in our community.

'Our thoughts are with his family during this unimaginable tragedy and with law enforcement investigating this crime.'
Labour leader Keir Starmer faced a new challenge to his authority today after a frontbencher openly joined backbench left-wingers demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Bradford East MP Imran Hussain lined up alongside 38 other Labour MPs who are backing a parliamentary motion calling for 'an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities' in the Palestinian territory.

The 45-year-old, who backed Jeremy Corbyn to become Labour leader in 2015, last night posted on social media from a meeting with the Palestinian ambassador, Husam Zumlot, in Parliament.

Sir Keir is facing mounting pressure from Labour MPs over his pro-Israeli position in the bloody conflict. He has stopped short of calling for a total ceasefire, insisting Israel has a right to rescue hostages taken by Hamas in its bloody rampage a fortnight ago.

He has instead backed PM Rishi Sunak and the UN in calling for time-limited 'humanitarian pauses' to allow aid to enter the Palestinian enclave from Egypt.

Last night was accused of gaslighting Muslim Labour MPs after a meeting with backbenchers amid reports that four members of his front bench could quit.

The meeting, which came after a Prime Minister's Questions session where he conspicuously focused on domestic issues, appears to have made matters worse.

Sources branded the meeting 'tokenistic' and said there was still deep anger around an interview Sir Keir did with LBC, in which he appeared to justify Israel cutting off the water supply to civilians in Gaza.

Bradford East MP Imran Hussain joined 38 other Labour MPs - out of a total of 95- who are backing a parliamentary motion calling for 'an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities' in the Palestinian territory.

The 45-year-old, who backed Jeremy Corbyn to become Labour leader in 2015, last night posted on social media from a meeting with the Palestinian ambassador, Husam Zumlot, in Parliament.

The meeting came after a Prime Minister's Questions session where Sir Keir conspicuously focused on domestic issues

Shadow faith minister Sarah Owen is among the Labour frontbenchers said to be on resignation watch

It is feared by senior Labour party figures that shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Hopkins might also jump ship

A source at the showdown with Sir Keir said MPs were 'livid' and frontbenchers could quit if he backed a ground invasion of Gaza by Israel. Another party insider described the mood among Muslim MPs as 'awful' and warned that the Muslim vote could be hit, hampering Labour's election chances.

Another source told the Times people were 'still feeling gaslit' by Sir Keir's LBC comments and the saga had 'hurt the Muslim community deeply, they feel betrayed'.

Shadow faith minister Sarah Owen is among the Labour frontbenchers said to be on resignation watch. Her Luton North constituency has a large Muslim population.

It is feared by senior Labour figures that shadow Cabinet Office minister Rachel Hopkins, who represents neighbouring Luton South, might also jump ship.

Mr Hussain was elected in Bradford East in 2015, having been beaten in neighbouring Bradford West in a 2012 by-election by George Galloway.

He nominated Mr Corbyn to become leader and was later shadow minister for justice and for international development in his Cabinet.

Last night he tweeted a picture from a meeting with Mr Zumlot, writing: This is the #Gaza update we received from the Palestinian Ambassador Husam Zumlot this evening.

'Over 6,000 Palestinians killed. Disease spreading through contaminated water. Incubators on the brink of shutting off.'

That followed an attack on Foreign Secretary in a Commons debate on Tuesday, when he said: 'Since I raised this question with the Prime Minister last week, indiscriminate airstrikes and a total siege blocking food, water and medical supplies have killed thousands of innocent Palestinian men and women and more than 1,000 children.

'Let us be absolutely clear in this House: this is now beyond a humanitarian catastrophe. Even as we stand here today, innocent blood continues to be spilt on the streets of Gaza, and mosques, churches, schools, hospitals, bakeries, water plants and homes continue to be flattened by the Israeli military.

'I have a very simple question for the Foreign Secretary. Just what will it take? How many thousands of innocent Palestinians must be slaughtered before this Government condemn the brutality and bloodshed?'

A number of Labour MPs have suffered councillor resignations in their constituencies over the party's stance on the crisis

A total of 37 Labour MPs have signed a parliamentary motion, tabled by former shadow minister Richard Burgon, calling for an immediate ceasefire

What did Keir say in his LBC radio interview? Labour's row over the Middle East crisis has centred on Sir Keir Starmer's comments in a radio interview with LBC's Nick Ferrari on October 11. Sir Keir appeared to suggest Israel had the right to besiege Gaza by cutting off power and water to the territory. But the Labour leader has since sought to clarify his position and said he has never backed Israel's right to cut off supplies. Here's what was said in the LBC interview: Ferrari: 'Sir Keir Starmer, what is a proportionate response in your view?' Sir Keir: 'I think the first thing I have to say is responsibility lies with Hamas. 'This is coldblooded murder of men, women, even children. It is terrorism, and Israel has the right to defend herself. 'And there are ongoing situations with hostages, and Israel has the right to do everything that it can to get those hostages back safe and sound. 'And therefore Im very clear, Israel must have that, does have that right to defend herself. And Hamas bears responsibility.' Ferrari: ' A siege is appropriate? Cutting off power, cutting off water, Sir Keir?' Sir Keir: 'I think that Israel does have that right, it is an ongoing situation  obviously, everything should be done within international law but I dont want to step away from the sort of core principles that Israel has a right to defend herself and Hamas bears responsibility for these terrorist acts. 'And I would call on all responsible states, particularly Middle East responsible states, to call this out for what it is, and to stand with the world in condemning, utterly condemning, these actions by Hamas.' Advertisement

It came as Israeli forces including tanks rolled into northern Gaza overnight in the biggest incursion of the war against Hamas so far to carry out 'targeted raids' on 'terrorist cells' ahead of a full-scale ground invasion.

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing.

The IDF said they struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts 'as part of preparations for the next stages of combat' against Hamas.

Israel's battle-hardened Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu last night warned Hamas terrorists in a televised statement that they were 'doomed' as he vowed to push ahead with a ground invasion.

The backlash also saw 250 Muslim Labour councillors write to Sir Keir demanding he call for a ceasefire. And Yasmin Qureshi, a Labour frontbencher, broke ranks within the parliamentary party as she branded the situation in Gaza 'collective punishment'  an allegation being aimed at Israel for its blockade of the Gaza Strip.

In an interview with LBC after Hamas's October 7 atrocity, Sir Keir suggested Israel had the 'right' to cut off power and water from Gaza. But, acknowledging the 'distress' caused by the remarks, he subsequently sought to clarify his position, arguing that he did not mean to back the siege of more than two million Palestinians.

The deepening row came as:

French president Emmanuel Macron insisted a ground incursion by Israel into Gaza would be a 'mistake';

United Nations boss Antonio Guterres rejected 'misrepresentations' of his comments that the Hamas attacks 'did not happen in a vacuum';

Rishi Sunak backed 'specific pauses' in the conflict between Israel and Hamas to allow British nationals to escape Gaza and let aid in  but rejected calls for a ceasefire;

The head of Lebanon's Hezbollah group held talks in Beirut with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures in a key meeting of the three leading anti-Israel militant groups;

An RAF plane was last night on its way to Egypt with 21 tons of supplies for Gaza.

A 'real operation' was under way last night to keep leading figures from quitting, fearing that one resignation could quickly be followed by others.

In a letter organised by the Labour Muslim Councillor Network, more than 200 signed to say: 'Every day we fail ... to push for cessation of hostilities, Gazan children and hundreds of innocent men and women pay the price.'

Israeli armoured vehicles take part in an operation, as the conflict between Israel and Hamas continues, at a location given as the northern Gaza Strip in this still image taken from handout video released October 26, 2023

In an indication Israel was widening assaults into Gaza, the military said ground forces attacked multiple targets in the Hamas-ruled enclave on Thursday before withdrawing

Labour said the meeting with MPs had been constructive, and Sir Keir had backed calls for a 'humanitarian pause', as mooted by US secretary of state Antony Blinken.

He said: 'It's clear that the amount of aid and essential utilities getting into Gaza is completely insufficient to meet the humanitarian emergency on the ground.

'That's why we have repeatedly said that aid, fuel, water, electricity and medicines must be urgently ramped up both through what can come in through the Rafah crossing and through Israel turning back on the supplies it controls.

'In the long term there can only be a political solution to this crisis which is why we need to restart the hard work of talks for a two-state solution of a viable Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel.'

A Labour spokesman did not say whether Ms Qureshi  spokesman for women and equalities  would be disciplined. And they denied that there was a rift with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, who accused Israel of a 'clear breach' of international law in Gaza.
War memories remembered in documentary

Xinhua) 15:02, October 26, 2023

SHENYANG, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Zhang Ping has worked against time to find and interview veterans who fought in a war over 70 years ago, recording their oral accounts about the details of the war.

Zhang is one of the directors of a documentary produced by a local television station in the city of Dandong, northeast China's Liaoning Province, which borders the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK).

Over the past four years, she and her colleagues have traveled to more than 60 counties and districts from 12 provincial areas and filmed the oral history of over 500 veteran interviewees.

The documentary, "Remembrance," has released 212 episodes, and the book and video disc of the same name was published earlier this month.

"We have to be quick before it is too late," she said, adding that sometimes, almost as soon as they found and managed to contact one, they were told the veteran had just died.

The Korean War broke out in June 1950, eight months after the People's Republic of China was founded. The flames of war soon reached the border river of Yalu and wreaked havoc in Dandong, then known as Andong, with buildings bombed and civilians killed.

At the request of the DPRK, Chinese ground forces under the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPVs) entered the Korean Peninsula on Oct. 19, 1950, and fought the first battle on Oct. 25.

A total of 2.9 million CPVs from across the country joined the war that lasted almost three years, with more than 360,000 soldiers killed or injured.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the end of the war.

Zhang still remembers the first veteran she interviewed was Jiang Wen, a veteran medic who lost his right arm in the war.

While carrying a stretcher in a battle, a fellow soldier accidentally stepped on a landmine, leading to Jiang's injury and amputation.

Zhang recalled that when the camera crew arrived at Jiang's home in Yixian County in the city of Jinzhou, the veteran, aged over 100, was thrilled like a child.

"He told us stories in the war one after another, and sang five army songs in a row," she said.

The camera crew traveled over 2,000 km to Sichuan Province to meet Tu Boyi, who was severely burned in a war fire.

"The enemy plane flew very low. The napalm bomb fell, and all of a sudden, trees, grass and even stones on the hillside burned. I was instantly surrounded by flames," Tu was quoted as saying.

The war left Tu with irreparable wounds -- extensive burns, his fingers unable to bend and his face disfigured.

When Tu was asked whether he would fight in the war if he could choose again, he curled up his broken right hand with difficulty and said loudly, "As long as the country still needs me, I will go without hesitation."

Zhang Lei, another director of the documentary, said among the veterans they interviewed, a quarter have now passed away.

"The fact that the heroes have successively left us has shown the urgency and value of our work. History should be remembered," she said.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
The Ritz-Carlton is preparing to open a $600 million five-star hotel in downtown Portland, Oregon.

The gleaming, 35-story tower is set to open its doors on October 31 and features 251 guest rooms starting at $500 a night.

It boasts a stunning forest-themed bar, as well as sumptuous interiors and high end finishes.

For those who can afford it, the plush hotel will no doubt offer some respite from the chaos unfurling in the Dem-led city, which has seen drug use soar and crime rocket by ten percent compared to five years ago.

Inside the hotel, guests will soon be able to drift up the waterfall-inspired floating staircase to relax by the infinity pool and jacuzzi located in the hotel's tranquil spa.

The Ritz-Carlton is preparing to open the doors to a $600 million hotel in downtown Portland, Oregon

The 35-story building features 251 guest rooms starting from $500 per night

The hotel interiors have been designed to reflect its Pacific North West setting with plenty of natural materials used and forest-inspired decor

Or they can take the elevator all the way up to the 20th floor to enjoy a meal at Bellpine, the development's in house restaurant headed by top chefs Lauro Romero and Michelin-starred Pedro Almeida.

Glossy photos show the hotel building - the city's fourth largest - silhouetted against picturesque mountains.

While inside, the hotel's inspired interiors echo its Pacifc North West setting, with an abundance of natural materials and a forest hall lobby complete with a branching sculptural metallic tree canopy.

But the glitz and glamour of the prestigious hotel is a far cry from many of the problems seen on the streets of Portland under the stewardship of liberal Mayor Ted Wheeler.

Many of the city's woes began shortly after it voted to defund the police in the wake of protests around the killing of George Floyd.

Despite voting to reinstate funding just a year and a half later, the city has continued to struggle with a pronounced rise in crimes and homelessness.

The Rose City has seen homicides more than double from 43 in 2018-19 before the move to defund the police, to a staggering 96 in the year to September 2023.

Robberies have also increased by almost 25 per cent from 1,111 to 1,378 in the year to September.

The glitzy hotel is due to open amid a backdrop of rising crime, drug use and homelessness in the Democrat-led city

The hotel is due to open to guests on October 31. The development also features luxury residential condos

Under the watch of Mayor Ted Wheeler homicides have more than doubled when compared to before the city adopted the de-fund the police movement

And while the city's decriminalization of drug use may have resulted in fewer drug offences, usage has skyrocketed.

Fatal unintentional opioid deaths soared from 280 in 2019 to 955 last year. The Oregon Health Authority also said that the number of opioid overdose visits to hospital is higher in 2023 than in previous years.

At a time when many businesses are fleeing the crime-addled city, The Ritz-Carlton has already pumped $700 million into the metropolis according to hotel bosses.

They are hoping the opening will 'reinvigorate' the downtown area which has seen businesses flee in droves amid the urban decline.

Public data shows that since the pandemic, more than 2,600 downtown businesses have filed changes of address with the U.S. Postal Service to leave their downtown ZIP codes.

Several big-name employers, such Umpqua Bank, have been among the mass exodus from businesses dissatisfied with the city's response to the spiraling crime and homelessness.

Rising crime rates have led to a mass exodus of businesses from the downtown area

The hotel boasts a tranquil spa with infinity pool and jacuzzi accessible on the 19th floor

Walter Bowen, founder and CEO of BPM Real Estate Group who built the hotel hope it will 'reinvigorate' the area

The Ritz-Cartlon said it hopes the opening of the hotel will be a 'new era' for the city.

Construction at the site has already created 2,000 jobs for the area with 'hundreds' more planned, according to developers BPM Real Estate Group.

Walter Bowen, founder and CEO of BPM Real Estate Group, said: 'Ultimately, the opening of Block 216 opens the door for world travelers and locals alike to return to Portland to reinvigorate downtown through world-class culinary experiences, top-tier hospitality, cultural moments, community connection, and the business opportunities downtown so desperately needs.'

He added that the group will also inject a $7.76 million payment to the Portland Housing Bureau to help contribute to affordable housing development.
Donald Trump risked violating the gag order in his New York fraud trial again with an attack on the judge and the New York Attorney General Letitia James in a series of Truth Social posts on Thursday morning.

Just hours after he took the stand and was fined $10,000, the former president unleashed fresh attacks claiming 'radical left' Judge Arthur Engoron found him 'guilty before the trial even started, and long before he had the real facts'.

'The Radical Left Judge said he doesnt care,' Trump said. 'He is trying to protect RACIST A.G. Letitia James, who has no case, lost the appeal, but has a tyrannical and unhinged Trump Hating Judge.'

He also described his former lawyer Michael Cohen 'collapsing and choking yesterday under cross examination, and completely admitting that I did nothing wrong'.

The latest outburst came after Special Counsel Jack Smith demanded the federal judge in the January 6 case impose stricter sanctions.

Donald Trump risked violating the gag order in his New York fraud trial again with an attack on the judge and the New York Attorney General Letitia James in a series of Truth Social posts on Thursday morning

'It was like watching the end of the best Petty Mason (sic) episode, where the defendant breaks down and cries'

'This case should be ended, NOW, but this Judge and his boss, Letitia Peekaboo James, will never let that happen.

'He even refuses to accept our big win in the Appeals Court. It is a disgrace to the legal system in the State of New York. This is a RIGGED CASE!'

Trump's lawyers on Thursday asked the judge to reconsider the $10,000 fine he slapped on Trump for violating the gag. He did so, but decided to keep the fine in place.

In a dramatic courtroom outburst Wednesday afternoon, the former president threw his arms up in the air before getting up and leaving in a huff, sending Secret Service agents chasing after him.

The abrupt departure came shortly after he had been fined for a second time for violating a gag order and moments after one of his lawyers finished questioning fixer-turned-foe Michael Cohen, who testified that Trump did not direct him to inflate the value of his properties.

The admission - which contradicts Cohen's earlier testimony - prompted defense attorney Clifford Robert to ask for a directed verdict, arguing that his statement was grounds for dismissal.

Judge Arthur Engoron said it was 'absolutely denied' and that the case had 'evidence all over the place.' He also said he did not consider Cohen a 'key witness'.

'There's enough evidence in this case to fill this courtroom,' the judge said.

Asked to explain his comment Wednesday from the witness stand, Trump said he wasn't speaking about the judge's clerk, but was instead blasting former fixer Michael Cohen. His original post that brought the gag order came when he called the clerk Sen. Charles Schumer's 'girlfriend' and posted a link to her instagram page with a me-wall photo of her with the powerful Democrat.

Trump also described his former lawyer Michael Cohen 'collapsing and choking yesterday under cross examination, and completely admitting that I did nothing wrong'

Trump was called to the stand to address remarks he made about Judge Engoron and his court staff earlier outside of the courtroom. He was then fined $10,000 for violating a gag order

Jude Engoron called Trump's explanation 'not credible.'

In his Truth Social post, Trump said the judge 'should be ashamed of himself for having ruled against me before the trial even started, and for not dismissing this RIGGED WITCH HUNT now that the facts are known and that their star witness has been totally discredited, actually ADMITTING TO LYING.'

Trump's claim that he was founded guilty before the start of the trial steps around one legal maneuver of the case: both Trump and prosecutors sought 'summary judgement' in the case.

Judge Engoron ultimately issued a summary judgement finding of fraud, and the case is not in a phase to determine the amount of the financial penalty.
A man's rotting body was found inside a chimney at a Nebraska apartment a month after neighbors heard mysterious screams.

The body has been identified as Zachariah Andrews, 29, who was discovered on October 19 at 1414 S 3rd Street in Norfolk.

A maintenance man who was investigating a suspicious odor coming from the building's chimney became concerned when he saw what looked like a shoe dangling from it.

Captain Michael Bauer said that Andrews was identified as the man in the chimney by his scars, marks, tattoos and identification card found on him.

Zachariah Andrews' (pictured) rotting body was discovered stuffed in a chimney on October 19 at 1414 S 3rd Street in Norfolk

It is unclear how he got in the chimney (pictured) and just how long he was in there. His body was found after a maintenance man was investigating a suspicious odor coming from the building's chimney and said he saw what looked like a human's shoe dangling out of it

The Norfolk Police Department had repeatedly been at the apartment after residents in the building complained of loud screams, and when a parking ticket was placed on his car

Andrews' body was removed from the chimney by the local police and fire department, with Platte Valley Media Group first reporting the discovery.

He was last seen on September 15, and the next day police received a call from a tenant inside the apartment building that claimed they heard unknown screams.

The tenant told police they heard a man yelling for help for about three to four minutes, but it stopped just before two officers arrived.

Police found a loud television when they checked one of the apartments before they told the tenant to call back if the yelling returned.

On September 20, police were back at the apartment again after a parking ticket was placed on Andrews' vehicle, which was right in front of the building he was found in.

He was officially reported missing on October 3, the same day the Madison County Sherriff's office issued a warrant for his arrest on seven counts of violating a protection order.

Captain Michael Bauer said that Andrews (pictured) was identified as the man in the chimney by his scars, marks, tattoos and identification card found on him. His body was removed from the chimney by the local police and fire department

Andrews' body was found in the chimney of an apartment building on 114 S 3rd Street in Norfolk, Nebraska, after cops had repeatedly been called to the address after other tenants complained of loud screaming

Police are still investigating, but have reported that they believe it was an accidental death. In a statement, Norfolk Police said that they already had previous contact with his family since the start of the investigation

Andrews was previously charged in 2018 for allegedly trying to entice a 12-year-old girl over Facebook. He was also charged with resisting arrest when he kicked police officers as they tried to arrest him for assaulting a man in April of last year

Over the past several months Andrews kept posting to his Facebook in an attempt to reach out to an unidentified woman, The New York Post reported.

Several of his friends told him to 'let her go' and one advised him to 'remember what he learned in treatment'. It is unclear what treatment he participated in.

Andrews claimed cops had looked through his love letters to her before telling him his goals of being with her werent realistic, according to reports.

'I kinda wanna prove them wrong tho,' he reportedly wrote in May.

He was charged with resisting arrest when he kicked police officers as they tried to arrest him for assaulting a man in April of last year.

Andrews' friend Josh Isenbart posted about his death on Facebook and said: 'I couldn't image how you were feeling being trapped but now you are free my brotha, free in gods [sic] hands! Spread your wings angel.

On September 16 police were called to the apartment building after a tenant heard a man yelling for help. Bauer said that the two officers that responded were told the screaming lasted for about three to four minutes but stopped just before authorities arrived

The New York Post reported that over the past several months Andrews kept posting to his Facebook in an attempt to reach out to an unidentified woman. Several of his friends told him to 'let her go' and one advised him to 'remember what he leaned in treatment'

'I'll cherish every day that I did have with you there until we meet again my friend, you are no longer suffering and are now in the best place you can be.'

Police are still investigating, but have reported that they believe it was an accidental death.

In a statement, Norfolk Police said that they already had previous contact with his family since the start of the investigation.

DailyMail.com reached out to the Norfolk Police Department who reported that there have been no updates on the investigation.
This is the moment the deputy head of Hamas intelligence who helped plots the Israel terror attack is killed by an Israeli air strike.

In footage posted to X, a missile strikes several buildings which swiftly collapse, causing clouds of smoke to billow into the sky.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which shared the video, said the air strike killed Shadi Barud, the deputy head of Hamas intelligence who they accuse of being behind the October 7 attacks that killed hundreds of Israeli civilians.

An IDF spokesperson said on X: 'Fighter jets, guided by accurate intelligence from the Amman and the Shin Bet, today killed the deputy head of Hamas's intelligence department, Shadi Barud.

'As part of his previous position as head of the attack department at the Hamas operations headquarters, Baruf planned with Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip the attacks that were carried out in the murderous raid in Israel on October 7.

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF), which shared the video, said the air strike killed Shadi Barud, the deputy head of Hamas intelligence

The accuse Barud (pictured here) of being behind the October 7 attacks that killed hundreds of Israeli civilians

'Barud also served as a battalion commander in the Khan Yunis sector and was involved in planning several terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens.

'After that, he held several positions in Hamas's military intelligence, and was responsible for the organisation's information security.

'Also, he is responsible for intelligence relations for the benefit of the organisation.'

This comes after Israel's envoy to the United Nations has accused Iran of training and funding Hamas and said it should not have a seat at the UN.

Meanwhile Iran's foreign minister has said Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners, while also saying the world should support the release of 6,000 Palestinian prisoners.

Israel's incursion of Gaza started last night and the death toll in Gaza has risen over 7,000 civilians - 3,000 of which are children - according to the Hamas-controlled Palestinian health ministry.

Israel continues its aerial bombardment of Gaza today after tank raids on the territory overnight.

'Nowhere is safe in Gaza,' Lynne Hastings, UN humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, said in a statement.

'When the evacuation routes are bombed, when people north as well as south are caught up in hostilities, when the essentials for survival are lacking, and when there are no assurances for return, people are left with nothing but impossible choices.'
Tesco's UK boss is to step down next year, with a former Aldi executive set to replace him in the role.

The UK's largest supermarket group said its UK chief executive Jason Tarry 'has decided to leave' the business in March 2024.

He has led the UK operation for six years, playing a significant role in its turnaround amid the fallout of its accounting scandal and related 129 million fine.

Mr Tarry has been at Tesco for around 33 years in total and most recently helped lead the company through the Covid-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.

The supermarket giant said he will be replaced in the high-profile role by former Aldi UK and Ireland chief executive Matthew Barnes.

Tesco's UK boss, Jason Tarry, is to leave the business in March, to be replaced by former Aldi UK and Ireland chief executive Matthew Barnes

Mr Tarry has been with Tesco for 33 years and helped lead the company through the pandemic and the recent cost-of-living crisis

Tesco group CEO Ken Murphy said: 'Jason has made an immense contribution to our business.

'Under his leadership, Tesco today is the most competitive we have ever been, built on exceptionally strong foundations of doing the right thing for our customers and colleagues.'

Mr Tarry said: 'Little could I have imagined 33 years ago, the journey I would go on with Tesco.

'My life in Tesco has been a wonderful experience.

'This decision was not made easily but this is the right time for me to move on.'

Matthew Barnes led Aldi's UK division between 2015 and 2018, and stepped down from the board of its parent firm earlier this year

Mr Barnes, who was Aldi's UK and Ireland boss from 2015 to 2018, will take over the role after stepping down from the board of Aldi's parent firm earlier this year.

It comes as Tesco has sought to attract and retain shoppers by committing to match Aldi prices for a range of its most popular products.

Mr Barnes said: 'I come to this role with a real sense of determination to ensure that we build on the progress of the last number of years and deliver for our customers and colleagues.

Mr Murphy added: 'I believe the combination of Matthew's extensive retail experience, competitive spirit and challenger mindset will help us continue to win in the UK market and evolve our thinking about what customers will want from Tesco in the future.'
Maine shooter Robert Card heard voices at the bowling alley and bar where he went on to launch his deadly attack which killed at least 18 people, according to his sister-in-law.

Relatives of the 40-year-old Army reserve firearms instructor have also been frantically texting him pleading with him to surrender as the manhunt enters its 17th hour.

Card has been charged with multiple murder counts after the bloody massacre at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, around 7pm on Wednesday.

Officials were seen wheeling a victim in a body bag out of Schemengees the next morning as police combed the area for the gunman.

Katie Card, who is married to the suspect's brother, said he had been struggling with 'an acute episode of mental health'.

Suspected Maine shooter Robert Card (pictured) heard voices before he launched the deadly attack which killed at least 18 people, according to his sister-in-law

Relatives of the 40-year-old Army reserve firearms instructor have also been frantically texting him pleading with him to surrender as the manhunt enters its 17th hour. Meanwhile, officials have been photographed moving a victim in a body bag from one of the crime scenes

Card has been charged with multiple murder counts after the bloody massacre at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, around 7pm on Wednesday

'I have known Rob my whole life,' she told the Daily Beast on Thursday.

'He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know. But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and it's been a struggle.'

She added that Card told his family that he could hear voices criticizing him while he was in the bar and bowling alley.

'He truly believed he was hearing people say things,' she added. 'This all just happened within the last few months.'

Card's former army colleague Clifford Steeves said he never witnessed any concerning behavior from him during the decade they served together.

'He was a very nice guy  very quiet,' Steeves, of Massachusetts, told CNN.

'He never overused his authority or was mean or rude to other soldiers. It's really upsetting.'

Steeves said they served in Wisconsin, Georgia and New York, and he feels like he has 'grown up' with Card because they did their army training together as young men.

He added that while 'aggressive leadership was very prominent' in the Army, Card was known for being a 'rational, understanding person' who 'led through respect rather than fear'.

Steeves said Card was 'an outdoors type of guy' who had been through thorough firearms and land navigation training, so he would have little problem hiding out in woodland areas. He added that Card was one of the best shooters in their unit.

Card is from Bowdoin, and his car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting.

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification center at Auburn Middle School after shootings in Lewiston

Law enforcement gather outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille as the search for a gunman

Robert Card, a 40-year-old Army reservist and firearms instructor, has been named as the suspect in the murder of 22 people in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday

The incident has left at least 18 people dead and 13 more injured, meaning it is believed to be the deadliest mass shooting of 2023. It also marks the 34th mass killing involving more than four victims in the US this year.

Investigators are desperately searching for Card, who fled the scene on Wednesday night, and his car was found in the town of Lisbon.

Audio from police dispatchers suggested that he may have crossed the border to Massachusetts, but Massachusetts State Police have said that claim is unsubstantiated.

A distraught Maine councilor has said he knows his son is among the dead - though authorities are yet to confirm - while a 10-year-old girl has spoken about being grazed by a stray bullet.

Leroy Walker, whose son managed Schemengees, said he is convinced his son is dead.

'If you had my gut right now, I feel like I'm squashed with a vice,' the Auburn councilor told NBC. 'My neck in the back of my head feels like there's a vice squashing it the other way.'

'And I don't know, telling you the truth, what kind of night this is going to be from now until tomorrow when I wake up to the true facts that my son is dead - and I know he's dead.

'I know it as well as I know I'm standing here telling you because he's not here and he's not at any other hospital and he's not running the streets or he would have called us, because he manages Schemengees, so I know he was there.'

Meanwhile, 10-year-old Zoey questioned 'why do people do this' as she sat beside her mother the morning after they survived the shocking attack at the bowling alley as their city remains on lockdown.

'I never thought I'd grow up and get a bullet in my leg,' Zoey told ABC's Good Morning America. 'Like, why do people do this?

'I was more worried about, like, am I going to live and I going to make it out of here. Like, what's going to happen? Are the cops going to come?'

Mom Meghan Hutchinson said her daughter was 'grazed by a bullet' amid the terrifying rampage.

Law enforcement gather outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille as the search for a gunman

Zoey, 10, questioned 'why do people do this' as she sat beside her mother Meghan Hutchinson the morning after they survived the shocking attack at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston

'She was grazed by a bullet while we were running,' Hutchinson told ABC.

'We were in the back room. Another child came in whose arm had a massive - was bleeding profusely.

'So we barricaded in there and another parent was in the room with me. She had a phone and she called 911.'

Another Lewiston mom, Riley Dumont, was in the bowling alley with her daughter, and her parents, including her retired police officer father who leapt into action and saved several people's lives.

'I heard a really loud bang. I didn't think anything of it at the time, but my dad looked at me,' Dumont told ABC.

'Next thing I know, he was just taking the group that we were in and just corralling us in the corner,' she said.

'He put tables over us and just made sure we were safe. He just kind of went into action at that point. It felt like it lasted forever.'

'I kind of laid on top of (my daughter), and my mom was kind of on top of me. We had two other kids with us and two other mothers as well.'

Law enforcement gather outside Schemengee's Bar and Grille as the search for a gunman

The gunman then moved onto the nearby Schemengees Bar and Grille, pictured above

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley on Wednesday night. The venue is pictured above

Justin Karcher, 23, is on a ventilator in ICU after the shooting, according to his mother Jessica Karcher.

Doctors have to 'keep resuscitating him' following emergency surgery, she told the Washington Post. 'He's not out of the woods.'

She added that Justin witnessed his father being gunned down in a Walmart parking lot in July 2019.

'His father passed away in front of him,' Karcher said. 'My head is pounding,' she added. 'I just called the hospital for an update. And of course, they don't have one.'

Maine Police Colonel William G. Ross said that seven of the victims were found at the Just-In-Time bowling alley: one female and six males, all suffering apparent gunshot wounds.

Another eight victims were found at Schemengees Bar and Grille: seven males were discovered inside and one outside, all also with apparent bullet wounds.

Many more people were rushed to area hospitals, where some were pronounced dead.

The shooter used an AR-15-style rifle to open fire inside the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley at about 7pm Wednesday before targeting Schemengees Bar and Grille around four miles away.

Tactical team members get ready to head back out to search for the suspect of a shooting in Lisbon

Lewiston, a small city of about 38,000, is on lockdown as police hunt for Card who was sectioned this summer with mental health issues. He previously reported hearing voices and threatened to shoot up his National Guard base in Saco, Maine.

'Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings,' Maine State police said on Facebook.

Lisbon Chief of police Ryan McGee has called the entire police department to assist in the search and closed local businesses.

A heavy police presence is outside the Central Maine Medical Center on Thursday morning, with police standing at every entrance with high powered rifles. The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search.

Detectives said they are looking into cellphone signals, social media and electronic records to build a timeline of his movements before the shooting.
A paedophile who bought a gun from the US on the dark web, and searched the internet for the 1996 Dunblane school massacre, has been jailed for five years.

James Maxwell, 28, from Leven, Fife, had searched the web for 'Dunblane,' 'primary schools in Glasgow' and 'when do schools break up for Christmas holidays.'

He was arrested in January and charged with two counts of purchasing and attempting to acquire and possess a firearm.

The High Court in Edinburgh heard on Thursday that the firearms were intercepted before they arrived at Maxwell's address and he was subsequently arrested.

Maxwell appeared by video link from HMP Perth for sentencing following an earlier hearing at which he admitted six charges, including being in possession of indecent images of a child.

James Maxwell, 28, from Leven, Fife, was handed a nine-year extended sentence comprising five years in prison and a further four years when he will be monitored after release

Investigators from the Organised Crime Partnership found the 'deeply sinister' searches when they seized Maxwell's phone.

The Dunblane school massacre occurred on March 13 in 1996 when 43-year-old gunman Thomas Hamilton invaded a primary school and shot dead 16 children and a teacher before killing himself.

Judge Lord Ericht handed Maxwell a nine-year extended sentence comprising five years in prison and a further four years when he will be monitored after release from jail, telling him: 'You are a grave risk to public safety.'

In September, Maxwell pleaded guilty to purchasing and attempting to acquire a prohibited weapon without permission or without holding a firearms certificate between December 1, 2022 and January 11, 2023.

Maxwell also admitted buying and attempting to acquire and possess ammunition, as well as attempting to import the firearm from the US and bullets without lawful authority.

He pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography between April 22, 2022 and January 11, 2023 as well as possessing extreme images involving animals.

During sentencing, judge Lord Ericht told Maxwell: 'You did a search for when the schools broke up for Christmas 2022.

'You also searched the Dunblane school massacre and primary schools in Glasgow.'

Lord Ericht told the court the ammunition Maxwell had ordered would cause 'greater injury' than standard use ammunition and it had not been lawfully acquired in the UK.

He added: 'You purchased them on the dark web, you bought them from the USA and you paid for them with crypto currency.'

The Dunblane school massacre occurred on March 13 in 1996 when 43-year-old gunman Thomas Hamilton invaded a primary school and shot dead 16 children and a teacher before killing himself

Sixteen children and teacher Gwen Mayor were murdered by gunman Thomas Hamilton when he opened fire on a gym class on March 13, 1996

Prosecutors said Maxwell's plans were thwarted after US authorities alerted Police Scotland after finding and removing a Glock 17 handgun and ammunition in a UK-bound mail package which included Maxwell's address and phone number.

Four days later, a package containing the empty Glock gun box and two ammunition boxes was delivered to Maxwell's home and officers arrived with a search warrant and found it in his bedroom.

Lord Ericht added: 'One hundred rounds of that kind of ammunition used would have been unimaginable.

'You are a grave risk to public safety.'

Concluding, Lord Ericht said: 'I commend both the USA law officers and Police Scotland for their actions in ensuring the gun and ammunition were not received by you.'

In September, Maxwell pleaded guilty to purchasing and attempting to acquire a prohibited weapon without permission or without holding a firearms certificate

Maxwell will also be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of seven years.

His lawyer, Jonathan Crowe, told the court in mitigation that Maxwell had a 'troubled upbringing' and left secondary school aged 13 following the death of his father by suicide.

He subsequently failed to return to any kind of education or employment, and Mr Crowe told the court Maxwell never received any support to do so.

Mr Crowe said: 'He spent time in his room playing games and watching DVDs and his life has followed the same pattern ever since.'

A psychiatric assessment found Maxwell described himself as 'suicidal for many years', Mr Crowe said.

The High Court in Edinburgh heard on Thursday that the firearms were intercepted before they arrived at Maxwell's address and he was subsequently arrested

It also said he had no contact with the outside world and Maxwell 'lived online for many years'.

As a result, the psychiatric report said, Maxwell developed 'Americanised' values, common among those who spend time online, particularly around guns, which made his behaviour seem 'odd' when compared to the norms of British society.

Mr Crowe told the court Maxwell was simply unaware of the severity of what he had done or that gun ownership in the UK was unusual or unlawful.

He added: 'Locking Mr Maxwell in a prison cell is going to do little for him given the circumstances,' and called for leniency in sentencing him.

Rob Miles, Branch Commander of the National Crime Agency Scotland said: 'That Maxwell was researching school shootings and term dates while trying to obtain a deadly weapon and ammunition is deeply sinister and disturbing.

'This operation has removed a dangerous individual from the community, and we work tirelessly to protect the public from the trade in illegal firearms..'

Sineidin Corrins, Deputy Procurator Fiscal for Specialist Casework at the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS), said: 'James Maxwell has been prosecuted in the High Court in relation to a number of very serious offences by trying to import a handgun and ammunition into Scotland.

'This weapon could have been used for devastating purposes.

'Thanks to the work of law enforcement agencies and close collaboration with COPFS, this gun was removed from criminal circulation and the accused will now spend a significant period in prison as a result of his criminal actions.'

Police Scotland Detective Chief Inspector Stevie Elliott said: 'James Maxwell was willing to risk the safety of the public by bringing a deadly weapon into the country.

'His activities were brought to light during an intelligence-led operation by the Organised Crime Partnership and I want to thank all those involved for bringing him to justice.'
The Jewish NYC councilwoman who was arrested for wearing a gun on her waist while opposing a pro-Palestinian rally, has called for 'HEADS TO ROLL' at Cooper Union after an incident which saw Jewish students barricaded in the library during a protest.

Inna Vernikov, a Republican who represents a large number of Orthodox Jewish constituents in the city's 48th district, took aim at Cooper Union Thursday morning after a frightening incident unfolded at the private institution on Wednesday.

A group of Jewish students were forced to flee a baying mob, who chased them after they had reportedly been counter-protesting. The pro-Israel students were forced to lock themselves in the library as pro-Palestinian protestors banged mercilessly on the doors.

No arrests were made and no one was injured on Wednesday night. The Jewish students were eventually able to walk out of the building.

Vernikov wrote in a lengthy X thread that the protest was supposed to have been held outside the school on public property. But the pro-Palestinian group was not stopped when they entered one of the school's buildings.

She pointed out that this protest, which led to the direct terrorization of Jewish students, was sanctioned by faculty at the school, who 'cancelled class for the walkout' and 'encouraged students to participate.'

Last night, I spoke to four Jewish students from @cooperunion. Three of them were barricaded inside the library while the pro-Hamas protestors were violently banging on doors. A few take-aways according to student accounts of the incident:  Councilwoman Inna Vernikov (@InnaVernikov) October 26, 2023

Some, she said, even offered extra credit to those who attended the out-of-control rally. Others participated in the protest themselves.

As of Thursday morning, the small school, which grants degrees in engineering, art, and architecture, had not issued a statement assuring its Jewish students that would be safe to return to campus.

Later Thursday afternoon, a lawyer representing the school's Jewish students made a statement in support of those who were chased into the library - only to be shouted down by a pro-Palestinian student who called his account of events 'fake news' as other onlookers reacted with boos and jeers.

'These students are AFRAID to come to school today and many of them will STAY HOME,' wrote Vernikov on X leading up to the lawyer's presser.

Some students, she said, 'have dropped classes.' The students who became trapped in the library, 'are traumatized, and said they "will never walk in there feeling alright again."'

'This is a terrible DERELICTION OF DUTY on behalf of Cooper Union to protest its Jewish students from physical harm, a failure to provide them with a safe space, and the university must be held accountable for creating a HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT,' wrote the livid representative. 'HEADS NEED TO ROLL.'

A statement from the school in the aftermath of the event said that 'The Library was closed for approximately 20 minutes while student protestors moved through our building.'

The New York Police Department said community affairs officers were present throughout the demonstration, which about 90 people attended.

'The school staff allowed the demonstration to take place. The students dispersed after the incident. No property damage was reported, no criminal reports were filed and no threats of physical violence were made,' said the department in a statement.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams, who has positioned himself during this conflict as staunchly pro-Israel, said that his office had 'been in contact with the NYPD and Cooper Union leadership about the situation that unfolded on campus.;

He said the NYPD was present at the scene and coordinated with school security throughout the event, 'ensuring no one was injured.'

A pro-Palestine mob is seen on Wednesday barging past a security guard, yelling: 'Free, free Palestine'

Cooper Union, on Astor Place in Manhattan's East Village, was rocked by a pro-Palestine protest on Wednesday

Vernikov, herself a Jew, expressed outrage at the school on behalf of its Jewish students. She has been speaking out consistently against antisemitism since the Hamas terror attacks on October 7.

Shortly after the attacks, she was arrested for sporting a gun on her waist while opposing a pro-Palestine rally at CUNY's Brooklyn College.

She turned herself in to the NYPD after her appearance at the school's Flatbush campus, where hundreds gathered to support the Palestinian cause after Hamas terrorists killed 1,400 Israelis.

Vernikov, 39, was released with a desk appearance ticket and ordered to surrender her gun, a Smith & Wesson 9 millimeter, as well as her concealed carry license, which she just obtained last month.

While she had a license, it is a Class E felony to bring a gun to a protest or school grounds, which are deemed 'sensitive locations.'

Republican Brooklyn councilwoman Inna Vernikov was arrested after she wore a gun on her waist while attending a pro-Palestine rally at CUNYs Brooklyn College earlier this month

'I'm here at the pro-Hamas rally in Brooklyn college. There is a ton of police and we made sure the Jewish students feel safe today, but here they are screaming and yelling "Intifada, globalize the Intifida!"' Vernikov said on a video from the protest posted on X.

'If you are here today standing with these people you are nothing short of a terrorist without the bombs,' she added.

Vernikov represents Brighton Beach, Sheepshead Bay and nearby neighborhoods, and sits on the Councils Standards and Ethics Committee.

The CUNY4Palestine X account shared images of the councilwoman and her gun, writing: 'At todays rally on Brooklyn College campus led by the students in their SJP chapter, Inna Vernikov showed up showcasing a gun to Palestinian students and their allies.

'These are the tactics of force and intimidation used by zionist groups to silence any support for Palestine.'
Pro-Palestine activists today blocked an entrance to a military tech factory claimed to be sending kit to Israeli forces.

The Palestine Action group said more than 100 people gathered outside Instro Precision at Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, holding up placards reading 'stop arming Israel'.

Instro Precision Ltd is owned by Israeli-based Elbit Systems, which has a documented history of working with the Israeli Defence Force.

Additional signs reading 'UK funds genocide' were held up on display as protestors blared chants in support of Palestine.

The group shared two videos of the demonstration following the dawn protest on its Instagram page, alongside the caption: 'Over 100 people blocked both entrances to the Israeli-owned Elbit weapons factory in Kent.

'Across the country, people are rising up to shut down the production of weaponry. Palestine, we are with you!'

In the first clip, activists can be heard chanting: 'Free, Free, Palestine.'

BREAKING: 100 people blockade both entrances to the Israeli owned Elbit weapons factory in Kent.



Across the country, people are rising up to shut down the production of weaponry destined for Israels ongoing massacre of the Palestinian people.#ShutElbitDown pic.twitter.com/94iYYy70TL  Palestine Action (@Pal_action) October 26, 2023

Pro-Palestine activists today blocked an entrance to Instro Precision in Kent, a military tech factory claimed to be bound for Israeli forces

The Palestine Action group said more than 100 people gathered outside Instro Precision at Discovery Park in Sandwich, Kent, holding up a sign reading 'workers for a free Palestine'

Palestine Action also shared footage of protestors climbing up and smashing the roof of Leicester's Howmet weapons factory which makes drones

A sign reading 'Stop arming Israel' can be seen hung from the roof of one of the buildings

The second shows more people, this time shouting: 'If you work here, go home.'

Palestine Action claims weaponry produced there is 'destined for use in Israel's ongoing massacre of the Palestinian people'.

The firm says it is a supplier and system integrator of support equipment for military and commercial electro-optical sensors in the world.

It says it supplies high precision military equipment and specialises in support equipment like tripods and manual pan and tilt heads for military observation equipment.

Instro produces observation, surveillance and targeting systems.

Their work includes a range of guided weapons systems, night vision goggles, thermal imaging sites for guns and GPS and displays for armoured vehicles - which have also been provided to the British Army.

Palestine Action also shared footage of protestors climbing up and smashing the roof of Leicester's Howmet weapons factory which makes drones.

A police spokesman said earlier: 'Officers are currently at the scene of a protest outside Discovery Park near Sandwich.'

It comes after Palestinian supporters shouted 'boycott McDonald's' yesterday as they gathered outside a branch in Bristol, accusing the fast food chain of 'killing innocent people'.

A video shows a young woman leading chants in support of 'Free Palestine', as roughly 20 other people join in with Palestinian flags and placards.

The woman can be heard shouting 'Boycott McDonald's', before repeating, 'Shame on McDonalds for funding Israel. Who are killing innocent people'.

Protesters in Bristol, calling for a boycott of McDonalds pic.twitter.com/nVtLJ47n9g  London & UK Street News (@CrimeLdn) October 25, 2023

The video, posted earlier today, shows a young woman leading chants in support of 'Free Palestine ', as roughly 20 other people join in with Palestinian flags and placards

It comes after the firm faced backlash for providing free meals to Israeli soldiers.

In Israel, a local McDonald's operator has been offering discounts to soldiers, security forces and others since Hamas' October 7 assault, according to Israeli authorities.

McDonald's Israel has so far given out 100,000 free meals, according to posts on social media.

But many McDonald's operators in the region quickly distanced themselves from the Israeli operator's actions.

Franchise groups in Kuwait, Pakistan and other countries issued statements confirming that they did not share ownership with the Israeli franchise.

Others also noted that they had made financial donations to aid those in Gaza, where more than 5,000 people have been killed since October 7, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza, an organisation controlled by Hamas.

McDonald's Kuwait said in a statement, also posted on X, that: 'McDonald's Kuwait is a 100% locally owned and operated Kuwaiti company, owned by Al Maousherji Catering Company,' which stands 'with our brothers and sisters in Palestine, especially in Gaza.'

The operator said that the local company had made a $250,000 donation to the Kuwait Red Crescent Society 'to help with relief efforts in Gaza.'

McDonald's Pakistan also said it has made a donation to help ease the 'tragic humanitarian crisis in Gaza.'

'In regard to the news that McDonald's in Israel was donating meals. We affirm that it was an individual decision on their part,' McDonald's franchise in Saudi Arabia also said in a statement.

'Neither global McDonald's nor us nor any other country had a role or relationship with that decision, neither directly nor indirectly.'

McDonald's is a global chain but its franchises are often owned locally and operate autonomously.
The sister of a prison strangling victim is pleading with the state not to execute his killer - a lothario who famously wooed a British woman from behind bars.

William Speer, 49, was supposed to face a lethal injection at the Texas State Penitentiary at Huntsville on Thursday for killing fellow inmate Gary Dickerson more than 26 years ago.

But in a bizarre twist, Dickerson's sister along with religious leaders are asking for Speer's life to be spared. Sammie Martin said that Speer is 'remorseful' and deserves freedom.

Speer killed Dickerson in 1997 in a sick bid to join the Texas Mafia prison gang. He was in jail for shooting his friend's father in 1994 when he was aged just 16.

He hit the headlines in 2013 after striking up a romantic relationship with Anna Curtis, from Mitcham, London, sending her kinky letters from death row.

The sister of a prison strangling victim is pleading with the state not to execute his killer - a lothario who famously wooed a British woman from behind bars

In a bizarre twist Gary Dickerson's sister along with religious leaders are asking for Speer's life to be spared. Sammie Martin said that Speer is 'remorseful' and deserves freedom (pictured: Speer's baptism behind bars)

Lawyers backing Speer have claimed that his time in prison transformed him - and that he has since expressed regret for his heinous crime. He apparently helps lead a religious program which provides minister services to other death row inmates

Curtis was besotted with Speer, although it's unclear if their relationship stood the test of time. In 2013 she said: 'He's a massive flirt. When he writes to me he calls me his peach, and I get butterflies in my stomach.'

Speer was still just a teenager when he killed Dickerson in July 1997 at the Telford Unit in Bowie County, Texas.

The Texas Mafia prison gang ordered the hit because they mistakenly thought Dickerson had snitched on them to authorities for trying to smuggle tobacco into the prison.

Dickerson's sister Martin said that their mother was 'devastated' by her brother's death, but is now pleading the state not to execute his killer.

Lawyers backing Speer have claimed that his time in prison transformed him - and that he has since expressed regret for his heinous crime. He apparently helps lead a religious program which provides minister services to other death row inmates.

'I am so aware of the things that I've done. I'm so aware of the pain and the hurt that I've caused. I could just say that I'm sorry,' Speer said in a video submission for his clemency petition to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Speer was still just a teenager when he killed Dickerson in July 1997 at the Telford Unit in Bowie County, Texas. He allegedly killed Dickerson in an attempt to join the Texas Mafia prison gang

Efforts to halt Speer's execution came from different angles. The sister of his victim said: 'I have spent much time reflecting on what justice my brother and my family deserved. In my heart, I feel that he is not only remorseful for his actions but has been doing good works for others and has something left to offer the world'

Speer was initially detained at age 16 for fatally shooting the father of one of his friends - Jerry Collins.

On Tuesday, the paroles board voted against changing Speer's death sentence to a lesser punishment in a 7-0 decision.

Efforts to halt Speer's execution came from different angles. The sister of his victim said: 'I have spent much time reflecting on what justice my brother and my family deserved.

'In my heart, I feel that he is not only remorseful for his actions but has been doing good works for others and has something left to offer the world.'

A group of religious leaders from across the country have spoken out in support of Speer as well, saying that Speer's religious work 'does not excuse his actions, but it gives us a fuller picture of who Will is as a human, Christian, leader, and teacher.'

The ex-lover of William Speer - Anna Curtis - also vouched for the inmate's character during their whirlwind romance in 2013.

Curtis googled Speer before messaging him and admitted: 'I wasn't bothered about what he'd done in the past; I just wanted to put a face to a name.'

She said: 'With some people, you can see the evil in their eyes, but just from looking at his photo on the internet, I knew he wasn't like that.'

In 2013, Curtis had exchanged hundreds of letters with the six-foot-nine-inch lag, who she called her 'gentle giant'.

She said they had even discussed marriage, and she was planning on visiting him.

Curtis, who had never been abroad and had just applied for her first passport, said: 'He hasn't popped the question yet, but it could be on the cards.'

The subject came about when Curtis sent Speer a letter with a suggestive tone.

'When you're exchanging letters with prisoners in America, if you put the stamp on the envelope in a certain position, it means something.

'So I put the stamp to the side, thinking it meant "hugs and kisses", but actually it meant "marry me,"' she explained.

Curtis hit the headlines in 2013 after striking up a romantic relationship with Anna Curtis, from Mitcham, London, sending her kinky letters from death row.

A group of religious leaders from across the country have spoken out in support of Speer as well, saying that Speer's religious work 'does not excuse his actions, but it gives us a fuller picture of who Will is as a human, Christian, leader, and teacher'

'I am so aware of the things that I've done. I'm so aware of the pain and the hurt that I've caused. I could just say that I'm sorry,' Speer said in a video submission for his clemency petition to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles

Curtis revealed that she was smitten with the criminal: 'I look forward to telling Will what I've been up to; he's the first person I'll go to. He's interested in knowing what we do, what we eat, what our house is like, where we go and walk the dog, what the scenery is like.

'He doesn't have a TV, so I fill him in on the news. And he'll talk to me about anything - his medical ailments, if someone new has come onto the block.

'I just want to give him some insight into the free world and bring some comfort to his miserable life.'

Speer's lawyers have also put in effort to divert Speer from his scheduled execution. His attorneys asked state and federal courts based on allegations that prosecutors at his 2001 trial failed to disclose evidence and presented false testimony, according to CBS News.

His attorneys also claimed that trial lawyers failed to take into account Speer's troubled childhood - which allegedly included physical and sexual abuse.

The attorneys also tried to halt execution efforts because of claims that the state's supply of pentobarbital was exposed to extreme heat in a recent fire - which would make it dangerous to use in a lethal injection.

Although - the same reasoning was used to stop the execution of another inmate on death row, Jedidiah Murphy, but his execution went ahead as planned.
Ryanair passengers were forced to take shelter in a barn after a bomb scare at a French airport caused travel chaos.

Families preparing to board a Ryanair flight from Bergerac to London Stansted were ushered into cold and damp agricultural buildings loaded with tractors and equipment.

It is understood the departure had already been delayed by a technical problem with the plane when the bomb scare occurred.

A Ryanair source blamed a hoax security threat and confirmed passengers were temporarily moved to a nearby facility while the airport was assessed.

Concerned grandmother Jackie Walker said her young grandson was made to wait for hours in the barn with no food or heating.

Ryanair passengers due to fly from Bergerac in France to Stansted were herded into a barn full of tractors after the airport was closed due to a bomb scare

It is understood that the flight was already delayed due to a technical fault with the aircraft when the airport was evacuated

Another passenger posted on X that they were forced to wait in the fire service hangar at the airport

Passengers were made to sit in cold and damp agricultural buildings while waiting for a bomb squad to arrive from Bordeaux

The Ryanair flight eventually left at 5.15pm this afternoon, nearly eight hours after its scheduled departure of 9.25am (stock photo)

She added: They are all very wet and cold.

As a grandparent I am incredibly concerned about my grandsons wellbeing.

He suffers many severe medical issues and he has not been helped at all.

Another passenger Joanna Leggett took to X - formerly known as Twitter - to post pictures of them waiting in the fire service hanger at the airport, saying: Bomb scare at Bergerac Airport we are in the pompieres (firefighters) hanger waiting for bomb squad to arrive from Bordeaux , plane broke we were supposed to take off this morning at 9.26.

Another passenger added: Ryanair pretty much told us to go f*** ourselves and find our way home and closed Bergerac Airport

The flight was supposed to leave at 9.25am but the plane didnt depart until 5.15pm, eight hours later than planned.

A spokesperson for Ryanair said: 'Due to a hoax security threat at Bergerac Airport (26 Oct) passengers were temporarily moved to a nearby facility while the airport was assessed.'

In a statement posted on social media this afternoon Bergerac Airport Dordogne Perigord said: Please do not attempt to access the airport. You will be informed via these channels of any developments.
After raising the issue with staff, the passenger was told that it was 'normal'

This is the shocking moment mice were spotted scurrying around the floor of a 'British Airways business lounge' in London Heathrow Airport.

The furry rodents were allegedly spotted by an anonymous passenger in the lounge earlier this week as he waited for his gate to open.

The passenger claims that he spotted at least three mice scurrying around him and chewing at discarded items left on the floor, but when raising the issue with staff, was told it was 'normal'.

The shocking footage shows two brown house mice scurrying around the inside of what is allegedly the business lounge for British Airways passengers.

Empty brown armchairs are lined up on either side of the mice, who look to be on the hunt for scraps of food.

The black and white Nike trainers of a fellow flyer can be seen elevated onto the chairs in an apparent attempt to keep away from the curious rodents.

Taking to social media, the anonymous poster aired his disgust at the 'lack of cleanliness' inside the business lounge.

The passenger took to social media to express his disgust on Monday, saying: 'So this is British Airways lounge at Heathrow.

'When I go to the reception to let them know there are over three mice eating under our feet, the receptionist doesn't leave the desk and says she will let management know.

'And when I complain about the free-roaming mice and the cleanliness state of the lounge (or the lack of it) through my British Airways executive, the agent says they adhere to the highest standards and it's normal for mice to reach some areas.

'How has British Airways lost its standards like that and how awful is this customer service?

'This is only one video, I have multiple, showing different areas. It's just gross - British Airways business class lounge.'

The post received hundreds of likes and comments as fellow customers were left appalled by the footage.

The shocking footage shows two brown house mice scurrying around the inside of what is allegedly the business lounge for British Airways passenger

Empty brown armchairs are lined up on either side of the mice, who look to be on the hunt for scraps of food

The black and white Nike trainers of a fellow flyer can be seen elevated onto the chairs in an apparent attempt to keep away from the curious rodents

Social media user Vivian Blick wrote: 'About sums up BA standards. I think they should be stripped of the 'British' name as they are an embarrassment.'

Helen Richards said: 'When we were stuck at Heathrow for 14 hours in September, we found the mice bloody good company and far nicer than any unhelpful staff.'

John Gregory commented: 'Gotta feel sorry for the mice, eating BA food.'

Ross Savage added: 'Loved our little mice friends in T3, cute little things.

'That said, I was staff and not eating in their company - it is disgusting in a food environment, but they are cute.'

David Watt wrote: 'This is nothing new. Every terminal building at Heathrow is infested with both rats and mice.

'We used to see them regularly. They called pest control now and again but clearly have never got a proper grip on the problem.'

Andy Stevens joked: 'You need to strive for the first lounge, where you'll find a better class of mouse.'

A spokesperson for British Airways today said: 'We are working with Heathrow Airport to make sure uninvited guests don't get past the door in the future.'

MailOnline has approached Heathrow airport for comment.
New York lawmakers are set to crack down on unregulated marijuana shops as fears grow that they are a front for money laundering to Middle East terrorist organizations, such as Hamas.

Concerned politicians are also seeking legislation to help root out the back-door operations, the New York Post reported.

There are believed to be around 1,400 illegal weed stores in New York City, according to Mayor Eric Adams, with the City Council estimating it could actually be up to 8,000.

However, such stores have remained relatively under the radar in part thanks to local laws that govern so-called LLCs, or limited-liability companies.

State Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal told the Post that terrorists may be benefitting from the flaws in the system.

New York lawmakers are set to crack down on unregulated marijuana shops after fears they are a front for money laundering to Middle East terrorist organizations, such as Hamas

Concerned politicians are also seeking legislation to help root out the potential back-door operations

'We know LLCs are used to hide and funnel money to unsavory causes and could be used to fund terrorist activities,' said Hoylman-Sigal, who is the lead sponsor of the LLC Transparency Act.

'It wouldn't surprise me if there were individuals or groups of individuals who are financing these shops in a comprehensive manner, but we won't know until we get to the heart of their ownership,' he added.

The LLC Transparency Act would require LLCs to report their owners' true identities, including names, addresses and birth year to a public database.

Although the Act was passed by the New York legislature in June, it still requires Governor Kathy Hochul's signature by year's end to become law.

The illicit stores are cashing in on a lucrative market that the mayor says could reach $1.3 billion, potentially generating $40 million in yearly tax revenues for the city  as long as they are not undercut by illegal offerings.

State Senator Liz Krueger also expressed concern that the illegal stores are being used to fund terrorism.

'I think there are people with big money that are fronting these illegal shops,' she told The Post.

Adding: 'I am absolutely concerned that LLCs might be used to fund terrorist groups.'

Unauthorized pot shops have cropped up in droves, operating out in the open  and offering cheaper prices than the legal stores, where the products are highly taxed

In February Mayor Eric Adams and Manhattans top prosecutor announced that they would go after landlords who allow illicit shops to operate

Bragg said: 'It is time for the operation of unlicensed cannabis dispensaries to end. They've been put on notice'

In 2022, the NYPD admitted police officers are essentially powerless to stop the illegal shops from operating

Krueger sponsored the bill that regulates and taxes marijuana after it was legalized for recreational use in 2021. Now, she is so concerned about the explosion in unregulated stores that she is backing greater disclosure laws around their ownership.

In February. NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Manhattans top prosecutor announced that they would go after landlords who allow illicit shops to operate.

Officials have said that unlicensed stores are also a target for robberies as they keep large amounts of cash on hand.

The state legalized recreational marijuana use in March 2021 and authorized the Office of Cannabis Management to begin establishing a legal marketplace.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg sent more than 400 letters in February to illegal weed stores that are operating uninhibited telling them that his office is prepared to launch civil lawsuits to begin evictions.

In the letter, Bragg wrote in part: 'This letter is to inform you that the Manhattans District Attorneys Office is prepared to use our civil authority  to require owners and landlords to commence eviction proceedings of commercial tenants who are engaged in illegal trade or business, and to take over such eviction proceedings if necessary.'

Adams also warned that marijuana sold at illegal stores can often be laced with other drugs including fentanyl.
A 'fitness model' was captured on video ripping down posters of small children kidnapped by Hamas outside of Jewish-founded Gold's Gym in Venice Beach.

Zaid Ahmat Shaat, 30, was confronted by a man outside Gold's Gym in Venice on Wednesday afternoon, after he crumpled up a poster and chucked it in the trash.

Shaat, wearing a skin-tight tank top and little shorts with pink words written on the backside, said 'Get the f*** away,' as he scurried away from the man filming, who had simply questioned why he was ripping the flyers down.

'If you're so proud of yourself - why are your tearing it down?' the man filming asked.

'Yeah - I am proud of myself - go f*** off,' Shaat replied while walking into the gym that was founded by famous Jewish bodybuilder Joe Gold - known as the 'father of the bodybuilding and the fitness craze.'

Shaat, of Culver City, California, calls himself a 'lifetime natural athlete' in his Instagram bio, which he has since made private.

'Fitness model' Zaid Ahmat Shaat, 30, was confronted by a man outside Gold's Gym in Venice on Wednesday afternoon, after he crumpled up a poster and chucked it in the trash

The incident occurred outside Jewish-founded Gold's Gym in Venice Beach, founded by famous Jewish bodybuilder Joe Gold, known as the 'father of the bodybuilding and the fitness craze'

His website, zaidshaatfitness.com, now links to the Anti Defamation League - the leading anti-hate organization in the world. It's unclear at this time when or why this was changed.

Previously on his website, Shaat described himself as someone who loves to 'motivate people to live a healthy lifestyle.'

'I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and dreams,' he wrote.

He also has a fitness app, he described as a 'channel designed to help you reach your goals.'

Many people took to social media to call him out.

'Zaid is 'passionate about helping people' - unless you're a kidnapped Jew taken by terrorists into Gaza,' StopAntisemitism, who circulated the video, posted on X.

Gold's Gym told Dailymail.com that they were aware of the incident but cannot comment at this time.

Shaat's social media has since been made private and his website now links to the Anti Defamation League - the leading anti-hate organization in the world

'I am proud of myself - go f*** off,' Shaat said while walking into the gym that was founded by famous Jewish bodybuilder Joe Gold, the 'father of bodybuilding'

Earlier this week, three New York City vandals who were caught tearing down posters of Israeli child hostages were identified as a French financier, a Brooklyn magician and his teacher-wife.

The trio were caught in separate incidents this weekend ripping up posters of the missing children, who were taken hostage by Hamas on October 7.

They are among a wider group of pro-Palestine activists taking it upon themselves to take down the posters in New York and other western cities.

DailyMail.com named them as Marc Louvet, a 45-year-old financier who was working at the investment firm VanEck until his video surfaced this weekend, and Kelly and Noah Schaffer, a couple who live in Brooklyn.

Louvet was filmed being confronted after taking the posters down on Manhattan's Upper East Side, where he owns a $1.7million apartment with his Middle Eastern girlfriend.

Kelly and Noah Schaffer were filmed in Brooklyn Bridge Park taking down other posters. The pair live in Brooklyn

Noah previously worked as a 'magician' for A Taste of Magic, a dinner show in Manhattan. A Taste of Magic told DailyMail.com he stopped working there a year ago. Kelly worked as a social worker for Urban Dove, a New York City school program.

They join a growing list of students and pro-Palestine protesters who have been filmed removing posters of Jewish hostages in the city.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams has been steadfast in his support of the Jewish community since the start of the conflict.

There have been a number of large, pro-Palestine protests in New York City since the violence broke out in the Middle East but none have become particularly violent or unruly.

Among demonstrations this weekend was one attended by non-binary And Just Like That Star Sara Ramirez, who waved a transgender flag at the protest despite the fact Palestine and Hamas follow sharia law that makes homosexuality illegal.
The man suspected of savagely knifing four college students to death last November has had his latest bid for freedom denied, after he failed to have his indictment for murder overturned due to what he said were incorrect Grand Jury instructions.

Criminology student Bryan Kohberger, 28, was indicted by an Idaho Grand Jury who heard the evidence in secret in May and decided to send the case to a full trial.

He had hoped to have that voided so he could take part in a preliminary hearing - which could have led to his release had the evidence against him been deemed insufficient.

Kohberger's motion to vacate his indictment was held in two parts: a closed morning session and an afternoon session open to the public and media.

Bryan Kohberger (pictured last month) will appear in Latah County Court Thursday for a two-part hearing where his attorneys will argue that his indictment should be dismissed

Kohberger is the only suspect in the quadruple murders of Maddie Mogen (top) Kaylee Goncalves (second from left) Xana Kernodle (second from right) and Ethan Chapin (center) - all students at the University of Idaho - who were knifed to death on November 13, 2022 in the quiet, college town of Moscow

In the morning session, Kohberger's defense attorney Anne Taylor argued that the indictment should be dismissed based on a 'Biased Grand Jury, Inadmissible Evidence, Lack of Sufficient Evidence, and Prosecutorial Misconduct in Withholding Exculpatory Evidence'.

Like the hearing, the motion arguing the case is sealed and could not be reviewed by DailyMail.com, with Judge John Judge telling court during the open afternoon session that it was due to proceedings touching on the workings of grand juries which are secret.

The second part of the day saw Kohberger's lawyers make complicated legal arguments that referenced court codes written in 1850 and 1887 to argue that the Grand Jury panel that had indicted Kohberger had been given the wrong instructions to consider whether evidence showed probable cause instead of considering whether Kohberger is guilty beyond reasonable doubt.

They also argued that the jurors who indicted Kohberger were working 'from facts given to them by their neighbors' and 'just decided they don't like this guy'.

In response, Latah County prosecutors said the standard was just whether there is 'sufficient evidence to turn the defendant over to trial' and said that in Kohberger's case there was.

The Washington State University PHD candidate was arrested last December and charged with four counts of first-degree murder and one of burglary over the horror attack which left a scene so appalling, police described it as 'the worst we've ever seen'.

DailyMail.com visited the students' former home in Moscow, Idaho, which university officials plan to demolish, however it remained intact but boarded up on Wednesday

Best friends Madison Mogen and Kaylee Goncalves, both 21, and young couple Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin, both 20, were all killed in their beds at the three women's rented home.

The attack was so brutal, blood could still be seen dripping down the walls of the gray-painted home days after the killing.

In the wake of the murders, the house was turned over to the University of Idaho which plans to knock it down to make way for a memorial to the murdered students.

When DailyMail.com visited on Wednesday, it remained intact but is boarded up and guarded by college security guards.

A hearing on Kohberger's motion to vacate his indictment will be held at Latah County Court in two parts: a closed morning session and an afternoon session that will be open to the public and media.

In the morning session, Kohberger's defense attorney Anne Taylor will argue that the indictment should be dismissed based on a 'Biased Grand Jury, Inadmissible Evidence, Lack of Sufficient Evidence, and Prosecutorial Misconduct in Withholding Exculpatory Evidence'.

Like the hearing, the motion arguing the case is sealed and could not be reviewed by DailyMail.com.

The second part of the day will see Taylor argue for a dismissal based on an error in the instructions handed to the jury, saying that jurors were 'misled' on the standard of proof required for an indictment.

In a closed-door morning session Thursday, Kohberger's defense attorney argued that the indictment should be dismissed based on a 'Biased Grand Jury, Inadmissible Evidence, Lack of Sufficient Evidence, and Prosecutorial Misconduct in Withholding Exculpatory Evidence'

An afternoon session that will be open to the public and media will hear the defense's motion to dismiss on grounds of 'error in grand jury instructions'

A small memorial paying tribute to the four college students is seen outside the home where the horrific murders took place

Kohberger's bid for freedom comes 10 months after he was apprehended during a raid on his parents' Poconos Mountains, Pennsylvania home on December 30 before being flown back to Idaho in a small Pilatus PC-12 turboprop plane on January 4.

Since being returned to the Gem State, the alleged killer has been locked up at the Latah County Jail, with prison sources telling DailyMail.com he spends his time obsessing over TV coverage of the case and has turned to God  meeting with a local pastor every Sunday.

Kohberger has been locked up at the Latah County Jail since being flown back to Idaho on January 4

The November 2022 killings shocked the tiny college town of Moscow which had not seen a single murder for seven years when Madison, Kaylee, Ethan and Xana were found dead in their beds.

Police initially appeared to be stumped by the murders and issued a series of contradictory statements over whether the students had been targeted and whether the public was at risk.

Shortly before Thanksgiving, they released a photo of a white Hyundai Elantra and a plea for further information about the vehicle's movements and owner.

The car turned out to belong to Kohberger who, in an extraordinary twist, was pulled over twice while driving the vehicle back to Pennsylvania in early December.

Since his arrest, it has emerged that loner Kohberger had battled heroin addiction in his teens and early twenties and was banned from a bar near his parents' home due to his creepy behavior towards women.

Police sources have since said that following his move to Pullman, Washington, to pursue a PHD in criminology, he applied to work for the Washington State University police department  but was turned down.

The manner in which the killer navigated the three-story home to kill the four students  who were sleeping in separate rooms and floors  in the early morning hours of November 13, 2022 has raised questions about his motives

Investigators were seen in January removing a bloodied mattress from the home where four University of Idaho were murdered in November

Fellow students said he took an unusual amount of interest in the Moscow murder case and described his 'sexist' attitude towards women in his classes.

As a result of his 'rude behavior' towards women and his penchant for grading them differently, he was fired by his professor at the WSU criminology department John Snyder on December 19  just days before his arrest for murder.

Over the weekend, a Dateline report provided further evidence of his bizarre behavior with a female friend at WSU claiming he broke into her home a month before the murders and moved her possessions about to make her feel 'uneasy'.

She also said she had asked him to set up security cameras to help her catch the person who had moved her belongings  only to belatedly realize he was the culprit and, chillingly, had enjoyed access to the footage.

Kohberger is believed to have meticulously planned the murders of Madison, Kaylee, Ethan and Xana, with a probable cause affidavit noting that he had repeatedly visited the area around their home prior to the killings.

The document also said his DNA was found on a KA-BAR knife sheath found next to the bodies of Kaylee and Madison, and that he was seen in the home by roommate Dylan Mortensen, 19.

Kaylee and Madison were discovered dead in bed next to each other, while Ethan and Xana were found on the floor below, with Xana discovered slumped over on the floor of her bedroom.

Kohberger, meanwhile, has maintained his innocence in the case, and due to a sprawling gag order, few details have emerged. He chose to 'stand silent' during his arraignment in May instead of entering a plea

According to the document, survivors Mortensen and Bethany Funke heard something of what happened, with Mortensen telling cops she heard Goncalves say 'there's someone here' at approximately 4am.

Ten minutes later, she heard a thud and crying from Xana's room and a male voice saying 'it's ok, I'm going to help you'.

At 4:17am, a dog was captured barking loudly on a neighbor's security camera. Around the same time, Mortensen said she opened her bedroom door again and saw a tall male with bushy eyebrows leaving through the sliding glass doors at the back of the home.

She described how she had been 'frozen in shock' as the black-clad male walked towards her and said she locked herself in her room after he left.

A shoe print was later found outside her door.

The affidavit also reveals that Kohberger's white Hyundai Elantra was captured on camera near the scene before being seen driving rapidly away from the home towards Pullman at approximately 4.20am.

Police rapidly connected the vehicle to Kohberger and noted the similarity between his appearance and Mortensen's description of the intruder at the rental home.
A holiday plane from the UK was surrounded by armed police at a Spanish airport - after the pilot reportedly activated a hijack alert by mistake.

Around 20 Civil Guard and National Police officers were deployed this afternoon in an emergency response as the easyJet plane from Birmingham prepared to touch down shortly before 1pm local time at Majorca's Palma Airport.

Some of the cops are said to have pointed their guns at the aircraft after it landed while others approached the plane and spoke to the pilot from a 'safe distance' through an open cockpit window.

The police were stood down after it emerged human error was to blame, although a search of the aircraft took place as a precaution before passengers on board were allowed to disembark.

The easyJet plane had previously been diverted from the landing area after the 1pm alarm was sounded moments before it arrived in Majorca.

Around 20 Civil Guard and National Police officers were deployed this afternoon in an emergency response as the easyJet plane from Birmingham prepared to touch down at Majorca's Palma Airport (file image)

The police were stood down after it emerged human error was to blame, although a search of the aircraft took place as a precaution before passengers on board were allowed to disembark at Palma Airport (file image)

It was not immediately clear this afternoon how the false hijack alert was activated, although pilots are understood to be able to 'silently' inform air traffic control of an on-board incident of this kind by transmitting a four-digit 'unlawful interference' code.

That in turn leads to the mobilisation of security forces as part of an emergency response protocol.

A spokesperson for easyJet said: 'easyJet can confirm that flight EJU7254 from Birmingham to Palma on 26 October was met by emergency services on arrival at Palma as a precaution only.

'The safety and security of its passengers and crew is always easyJet's highest priority.'
This is the ruthless moment a delivery worker was run over by a vehicle and forced to strip down to his underwear as he was robbed for the second time in an hour in Brazil.

The man, who withheld his name, told TV Verdes Mates that he was walking back home when the criminals mowed him down in northeastern city of Fortaleza on Tuesday around 5am.

Dramatic footage captured by a surveillance showed the car slamming into victim from behind and sending him flying into a pole in the Antonio Bezerra neighborhood.

One of the assailants ran out of the vehicle and threatened him with a knife as he knelt on the sidewalk and begged for mercy.

Surveillance camera captured the shocking moment a delivery app worker was run over by armed muggers just an hour after his motorcycle was stolen at gunpoint in Fortaleza, Brazil, on Tuesday

A delivery worker was stripped down to his underwear during a robbery, the second he experienced in a span of an hour, in Fortaleza, Brazil, on Tuesday

The knife-wielding mugger then forced him to stand and stripped him down to his underwear before he took his motorcycle helmet and fled with his accomplices.

'The robbers asked for my phone and I explained to them that I didn't have it anymore as I had finished being robbed,' the father-of-two said.

'I had nothing to give them. The only thing I had was the other helmet that was left over from the first robbery.'

His first encounter took place around 4am in the Fortaleza neighborhood of Quintino Cunha while he was awaiting to receive a pickup order from delivery app he works for.

One of the suspects brandished a gun and demanded he give up his motorcycle.

The assailant, who he described as being 'desperate,' also took a cellphone, backpack and helmet.

A knife-wielding suspect strips his target down to his underwear while searching for valuables before fleeing with the victim's motorcycle helmet

A robbery victim keeps his distance from a group of robbers who stole his helmet an hour after his motorcycle was taken at gunpoint in the Brazilian city of Fortaleza on Tuesday morning

He sought help from a group of people and security guards on the scene, but none of the individuals wanted to get involved.

The man said that the impact of the accident left him in so much pain that he was unable to put any pressure on his left leg until Wednesday.

Now he's looking for help from the Civil Police to recover his motorcycle.

'That was my only source of income (for) nine months... and it's all gone. I'll have to look at something else, I don't know,' he said.

'I didn't stop to think about what I'm going to do. I didn't have time to plan. Waiting for what's going to happen, seeing if the bike shows up. I have two children to support.'
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is sending drones, weapons, and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip.

The items ended up on a flight that was also sending humanitarian aid, including medical supplies. The military supplies were purchased by an unnamed third party.

'In consultation with the Israeli Consul General in Miami, cargo planes contracted by Florida were used to transport healthcare and hospital supplies, drones, body armor, and helmets that first responders can use,' said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governor's office.

'We also worked with the Consul General to help get clearance on flights sending weapons and ammunition to Israel through private parties,' he said. 'The state did not purchase these items.'

The Israeli government asked the state of Florida for help transporting the military aid overseas. The supplies were included on two cargo planes that left Florida for Israel on October 17.

'The Israeli government contacted the governors office for assistance in transporting body armor and helmets. Since we were already sending supplies to Israel, Florida was able to include the body armor and helmets on our cargo flights,' Redfern said.

DeSantis has been an outspoken supporter of Israel and has vowed that Florida will do as much as it can to aid the nation in its efforts against Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States.

Ron DeSantis is sending drones, weapons, and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for a ground invasion of the Gaza Strip

He and his wife Casey have welcomed home Floridians from Israel, whom the governor sent chartered flights to bring home.

His latest move comes ahead of the third Republican presidential debate and as polls show Nikki Haley is moving up, closing in on DeSantis' second place position. Donald Trump remains far and away the frontrunner.

DeSantis will deliver what his campaign is calling a major foreign policy address at the Heritage Foundation on Friday. And the governor will speak at the Republican Jewish Coalition's annual meeting in Las Vegas on Saturday morning.

He's used his actions to tout his leadership skills and has said President Joe Biden hasn't done enough to assist Americans looking to leave the war-torn region.

The Florida governor also has accused Donald Trump and Nikki Haley of not being supportive enough of Israel.

The White House, meanwhile, said it was not illegal for a state to offer foreign assistance but questioned if DeSantis followed all the proper procedures.

'I would certainly let the governor speak to what Florida is doing. It is not illegal for the governor of a state to offer a measure of foreign assistance to another country. There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled,' White House spokesman John Kirby said.

'And that's all done through Commerce. I couldn't speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not, you really should talk to him and his staff, but it's not illegal for state governor to do that kind of thing.'

Kirby also said he was not aware of whether or not DeSantis gave the White House a heads up on his decision to send aid.

DeSantis declared a state of emergency in Florida on October 12, which allowed him the authority to mobilize state resources to 'bring Floridians home and transport necessary supplies to Israel.'

Israeli soldiers secured an area attacked by Palestinian militants, in Kibbutz Holit

Ron and Casey DeSantis greet hundreds of Americans who fled Israel on 'DeSantis Airlines' plane that took off while missiles were being fired as the U.S. tries to get its citizens out

The Florida Division of Emergency Management has been flying Americans back to Florida since Oct. 15. About 700 Americans have been brought out of the war-torn region.

Officials have been unclear about how much has been authorized for the operation but the Orlando Sentinel has identified purchase orders totaling nearly $50 million set aside for the operation.

That number is expected to rise. It's unclear how much DeSantis spent on military aid for Israel.

Hamas launched its attack Israel on Oct. 7, prompting Israel to declare war on the group.

Israel has launched several air strikes and is expected to begin a ground assault soon.
Police hunting an armed father-of-four for the suspected murder of his wife have discovered a plan to put a hole in her head on his phone.

Aaron Pennington, 33, disappeared from family home in Massachusetts, moments before his wife Breanne, 30, was found dead with a shotgun wound to her face on Sunday morning.

A judge in Gardner, Massachusetts, has issued a fresh arrest warrant for the US Air Force veteran after investigators discovered a chilling note written just hours before her death.

Dont say anything. Be quiet if she wakes up just say youre getting nasal spray, it read.

Get on side of bed  very close proximity to head.

Put hole in her head.

Aaron Pennington, 33, and his wife Breanne, 30, appeared to have a close and loving relationship in photos posted to social media

But the fresh arrest warrant details the chilling note found on Pennington's cell phone

Police report the couple were grappling with 'marital issues for quite some time'

Investigators said the couple was facing 'marital issues for quite some time,' with Breanne planning to move to Texas with the children to get away from her husband.

She was known to keep a gun at home for her protection, while he had struggled with 'mental issues and had threatened suicide.'

The alarm was raised just before 9.15am when the couples children - aged two, five, seven and nine - went to a neighbors house and told her their mother was crying in a bedroom, and they could not find their father.

Five minutes later, first responders arrived and discovered Breanne dead in an upstairs bedroom with a gunshot wound to her head.

Security footage from the neighbor showed Pennington driving off at 8.50am, before his four children left their Cherry Street home together 17 minutes later.

A hunter found Pennington's white BMW sedan the following day abandoned about 1,500 feet down a wooded trail off Kenton Street near Camp Collier in Gardner.

'He better turn himself in, Breannes sister Brooke Pertile said.

He needs to stand up for what he did, and turn himself in. And not be a coward. He needs to turn himself in. He needs to do it for the kids.'

Pennington spent eight years in the US Air Force as a 'special missions aircraft maintainer' and was working at Raytheon Missiles and Defense, where he also holds an 'active secret clearance,' according to his LinkedIn profile.

Pennington described himself as a 'special missions aircraft maintainer' and was working at Raytheon Missiles and Defense

The couple's idyllic home in Cherry Street, where police found Breanne dead with a gunshot wound to her face in an upstairs bedroom

The 33-year-old veteran's white BMW sedan was found abandoned down a trail in a wooded area not far from the family's home town of Gardner

The couple's four children aged - two, five, seven and nine - went to a neighbors house and told her their mother was crying in a bedroom, and they could not find their father

The couple's social media pages showed an apparently close bond between Pennington and his four children

Sister Brook Pertile said Breanne lived for their children, and was a 'very loving, caring, compassionate woman' who 'always saw the best in everything and people'

Police believe Pennington has struggled with mental health issues and threatened suicide

The engineer is also accused of unlawfully possessing a firearm without a license to carry

Breanne 'lit up the room like no other, any room that she walked in' her sister said

Police have said the 6-foot 2-inch engineer is considered armed and dangerous with an illegally owned firearm and have warned people not to approach him.

Pertile said her sister lived for their children, and was a 'very loving, caring, compassionate woman' who 'always saw the best in everything and people.'

Three shotgun cartridges were found in the couples bedroom and their children who ran for help are now reportedly in state care.

'On the outside he was a very nice person, said Pertile sister who had spoken to her just three days before the shooting.

But hes been struggling with some mental health issues. They just were getting worse.

In a 2016 Facebook post, the veteran thanked his wife for all that she did for the family.

'You have the most selfless outlook and are so dedicated to making us happy,' he wrote. We appreciate you as the hardest working mother and wife out there. You are truly amazing!'

He praised her for 'always being patient' and setting a great example for their children.

After news of her death broke, social media was flooded with posts commemorating Breanne's life, with several women mentioning they knew her from an online group for expecting mothers.

State troopers swamped the woods outside Gardner where Pennington's car was found

Police consider the father-of-four armed and dangerous, and have warned the public not to approach him

'Imagine my shock when I was scrolling and said to myself 'That looks like Breezy's husband, what happened?' just to find out he murdered her and ran away,' one woman wrote.

'I'm absolutely SICK over this and thinking of her four precious babies. Breezy Pennington was an amazing mom, hilarious friend, and a truly sweet soul.'

'I am hurt, sad, frustrated, angry, and most of all confused why someone has to take someone else's life because they are unhappy,' another friend wrote.

'We all want justice for you and want nothing but the best for your 4 beautiful children that we all know you loved sooooo much.'
Wade speculated there is a 'vendetta' against over a separate lawsuit she has against the force due to manslaughter of her brother by another Jackson cop

Police allegedly did not notify his mom Bettersten Wade, 65, and left his body unclaimed for months before burying it in Hinds County penal farm

A Mississippi mom has claimed white police hit her black son with a car and buried him in a paupers' grave without telling her for nearly six months.

Bettersten Wade's son Dexter Wade, 37, was allegedly mowed down by a Jackson Police Department officer whilst he was crossing a highway.

A prescription bottle found at the scene easily identified him and Wade, 65, had been calling police incessantly for updates on her son, NBC News reports.

But his body sat in a morgue unclaimed while his mother searched for an agonizing 172 days. She claims they eventually revealed the circumstances of his death and told her they had buried her son in a penal grave.

The grieving mom was finally taken to the burial site earlier this month, which was unmarked except for a plot number. Once there, she fell to her knees in aguish and cried out: 'I'm sorry, baby. I'm so sorry,' according to NBC.

Bettersten Wade, 65, claims cops did not tell her they had hit her son Dexter Wade, 37, (pictured with his kids) with a car and buried him in a penal grave for almost six months

The grieving mother searched for her son for 172 days following his disappearance on March 5

Dexter disappeared on March 5 following an argument with his mother. He was allegedly struck and killed the same day by an off-duty officer in an SUV.

The death was reportedly ruled as an accident, with Dexter found to have PCP and methamphetamine in his system at the time of death.

He was identified by a coroner who claims he left a voicemail for Wade, which she is unsure if she ever received.

He also claimed he passed on details to the police who have the job of notifying kin and issuing the proper death notice, but this never happened.

After almost ten days with no news, Wade reported her son missing to police. The health care aide was hesitant at first, because her brother had died at the hands of another Jackson police officer in 2019.

The cop concerned fatally slammed George Robinson, 62, to the ground and was convicted of manslaughter. The officer is appealing, but Wade's family filed a wrongful death suit which is still pending.

Now she has speculated whether her son's killing has something to do with a 'vendetta' against her over the legal action.

Wade told NBC News: 'They had me looking for him all that time, and they knew who he was. Maybe it was a vendetta. Maybe they buried my son to get back at me.'

She claims the father-of-two's death was ruled as an accident and he was buried in Hinds County Penal Farm

Wade posted heartbreaking appeals for information on her son's whereabouts as late as July following his disappearance, she claims police knew he was dead all along

In the early days of the search, an investigator came and took an incident report, initially misspelling Dexter's name.

Wade said she also sent multiple photos of her son to the police and began posting increasingly desperate Facebook posts seeking help trying to find her son.

For months, she continued appealing to the public for information on Dexter. A post from July details her heartbreak. It read: 'Dexter your kids miss you, I miss you and your Grandma sister auntie cuz friends miss you. You don't have to come home just let us know you all right. We love you.'

The mother of Dexter's two daughters, Candice Thomas, told NBC News: 'The girls would ask, 'Did you hear from my daddy? We just kept praying he was all right.'

The coroner also said they followed up with police to see if Dexter's next of kin had been located on numerous occasions, but was told there were no developments.

Eventually he applied for approval to bury Wade in Hinds County Penal Farm which was granted in April, the outlet reports.

But it was not until August that Wade learned her son was dead. She was then reportedly forced to pay a $250 fee to claim his body.

Speaking to him at his grave site, she said: 'Dexter, I want to tell you I am so sorry. I'm so sorry this happened to you. But mama didn't know. Mama didn't know. I always loved you and I miss you. Farewell, baby. Farewell.'

Wade is now trying to raise $100,000 to exhume her son's body and give him a funeral. She said on the GoFundMe page: 'I need help so I can give him a proper resting place.'

DailyMail.com has contacted Jackson Police Department for comment.

A spokesperson for Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba told NBC News police did not intentionally harm Dexter.

She said: 'There was miscommunication but there was no malicious intent anywhere in this whole situation.'
A 67-year-old Idaho woman has alleged that a Washington-based fertility doctor inseminated her with his semen to get her pregnant without her consent.

Sharon Hayes has filed a lawsuit against Dr. David Claypool, 81, at the Spokane County Superior Court today for infringing the state's medical malpractice statute.

It requires doctors to get informed consent from patients for treatment and the Consumer Protection Act, which she claims Claypool violated.

contacted Claypool, who said he knew nothing about the lawsuit or allegations and denied knowing Hayes.

He said of his past patients: 'I know people are very happy. But this is the first I've heard of anything in 40 years.' Claypool ended his practice in 2005.

Sharon Hayes (right) has filed a lawsuit against Dr. David Claypool for inseminating her with his semen to get her pregnant with daughter Brianna (center) without her consent

Doctors in Washington are not banned from secretly using their own sperm during artificial insemination procedures. This is why Hayes has filed the case only on the grounds of medical malpractice.

According to the lawsuit, Hayes received treatment from Claypool in 1989, after a friend recommended him.

In an interview, she said she started feeling uneasy around him early on for reasons that were 'hard to pinpoint' but dismissed those thoughts and went on to meet Claypool for six months before getting pregnant.

Part of the fertility process was selecting an anonymous donor based on physical features, health and genetic qualities, usually from a pool of college students.

Hayes said Claypool told her the group would have men who physically resembled Hayes' then-husband.

Brianna uploaded some DNA test results to 23ndMe and MyHeritage and found multiple half-siblings in the Spokane area of Washington

Each time, she gave Claypool $100 in cash for the sperm  on top of what insurance billed, she said. The doctor told her it was 'how college kids made their money.'

Her daughter, Brianna was born in July 1990. At the age of four, she was diagnosed with leukemia.

She battled against it and survived. But that wasn't the end of her medical problems.

In high school, after she recovered, she was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus, which can cause up to months of fatigue and fevers.

'I almost didn't graduate, I was so ill,' she told the Washington-based publication.

As an adult, Brianna has had five hip surgeries, which forced her to relearn how to walk through on-and-off physical therapy. She's also been diagnosed with a sleep disorder that severely impacts her daily activities.

Brianna said: 'I went through an identity crisis. It's ongoing. I've had to come to terms with the idea that someone committed this act against my mom. And that I'm a product of it'

'I was trying to see what my predispositions are for further issues,' Brianna said. 'What could be in my genetics? I was just trying to be informed.'

She decided to search for her father to understand her medical history better. Brianna uploaded some DNA test results to 23ndMe and MyHeritage and found multiple half-siblings in the Spokane area of Washington.

Soon after, the group realized Claypool had a profile on one of the heritage websites. All their DNA results matched his.

She said: 'I went through an identity crisis. It's ongoing. I've had to come to terms with the idea that someone committed this act against my mom. And that I'm a product of it.'

Claypool's lawyer has said that he believes the issue is currently under mediation. But Hayes' attorney, RJ Ermola told the publication that the parties 'could not resolve the matter through mediation'.

DailyMail.com has contacted Mr Ermola for additional comment.
China has released footage of 'provocative' actions taken by a US warship in the South China Sea as tensions continue to escalate in the region between the two nations.

The country's Ministry of National Defense said the USS Ralph Johnson 'conducted close-in harassment' against the Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) task group which was undergoing routine training on August 19.

It said the American warship carried out 'several provocative actions such as making a sharp turn and sudden acceleration or deceleration, crossing the bow of the PLANS Guilin, and dangerously approaching the PLA Navy ships'.

A clip of the incident shows the American warship making a sharp turn, crossing the path of the PLAN Guilin and coming within 670 meters of the vessel.

It comes after the Pentagon declassified 15 videos of 'coercive and risky' behavior by Chinese pilots against US jets last Wednesday.

China has released footage of 'provocative' actions taken by a US warship in the South China Sea as tensions continue to escalate in the region between the two nations

The country's Ministry of National Defense said the USS Ralph Johnson 'conducted close-in harassment' against the Peoples Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) task group which was undergoing routine training on August 19

A clip of the incident shows the American warship making a sharp turn, crossing the path of the PLAN Guilin and coming within 670 meters of the vessel

The captain of the Chinese warship is heard saying: 'US warship 114, this is Chinese 164.

'You are crossing my bow forcibly. It's interfering my safety.'

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said the footage 'shows that the US side is the real provoker, risk-taker and disrupter' during a regular press briefing on Thursday.

The actions from the US destroyer 'endanger Chinas national security', Wu said before adding that the country would 'take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty'.

In the clip, China alleges the US violated international regulations and agreements between the nations for the safety of air and maritime encounters.

The Chinese military rarely releases footage of its encounters with the US military.

It appears to be trying to show that the American warships were looking for trouble while it was acting responsibly.

China claims almost all of the South China Sea and is left unimpressed by military drills conducted by the US and its allies in the region.

Footage released by the US last week shows Chinese aircraft harassing US assets during lawful flights in international airspace by shooting flares, 'flashing their weapons' and flying as close as 20 feet.

The maneuvers are among 180 instances of such behavior which have taken place since the Fall of 2021, more incidents than in the two preceding decades.

They also form part of what US officials believe to be a 'centralized and concerted campaign' to challenge American operations in Indo-Pacific region.

The captain of the Chinese warship is heard saying: 'US warship 114, this is Chinese 164. 'You are crossing my bow forcibly. It's interfering my safety'

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said the footage 'shows that the US side is the real provoker, risk-taker and disrupter' during a regular press briefing on Thursday

In the clip, China alleges the US violated international regulations and agreements between the nations for the safety of air and maritime encounters

One shocking video from July 12 shows a Chinese People's Liberation Army fighter jet deploying eight flares just 900 feet from a US plane above the East China Sea.

Another video taken on July 7 shows a Chinese plane hovering just 20 feet away from a US fighter above the South China Sea.

Similarly, a video captured on February 15 shows a Chinese plane a mere 70 feet away. The aircraft is so close the US pilot is able to clearly film the Chinese pilot.

One of the most flagrant incidents took place on June 22 and involved a Chinese jet 'flashing its weapons' at a US pilot before swearing at them over the radio.

In a description, the Pentagon said the Chinese asset was 'approaching a distance of just 40 feet before repeatedly flying above and below the US aircraft and flashing its weapons.

'After the US operator radioed the PLA fighter jet, the PLA pilot responded using explicit language, including an expletive.'

In May, US pilots caught the moment they were shunted around their cockpit after a Chinese jet buzzed past the nose of their plane.

The clip shows the Chinese jet approaching in the distance before zooming past the front of the US plane.

The Pentagon declassified 15 videos from the last 12 months that show Chinese jets harassing US pilots

Chinese planes have been filmed flying as close as 20 feet from US jets in what has been branded 'risky and coercive' behavior

The maneuvers forces the US pilots to fly through the Chinese jet's wake turbulence, which causes the cockpit to shudder and jolt.

The incidents have been described by Pentagon officials as 'coercive and risky' that sits below 'unsafe and unprofessional' in the official classification scale.

A Canadian general criticized the Chinese air force following an incident near the coast of the Asian country that allegedly saw a fighter jet cut off a patrol plane and drop flares in its path.

The Philippines has recently released clips to show 'aggressive' acts by Chinese ships in the South China Sea.

It has released videos and images detailing eight incidents so far this year.

President Joe Biden warned China on Wednesday that the US would be forced to intervene if Chinese ships attacked Philippine vessels in the South China Sea.

It comes after a China Coast Guard vessel collided with a Philippines-contracted resupply boat on Sunday before another Chinese maritime boat hit a Philippine coast guard ship hours later.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will likely discuss the rising tensions during a visit to the US. He is set to meet Biden at the White House on Friday, according to a source.

Yi will also meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan during his visit.

DailyMail.com has contacted the Department of Defense for comment.
Scottish ministers have failed to hand over a single private message related to the coronavirus pandemic despite demands by the UK public inquiry.

The revelation by lawyers acting for the official probe emerged at an explosive hearing in London yesterday.

Humza Yousaf was confronted at the Scottish parliament within minutes to explain where the WhatsApp messages were and if they had been deleted.

But the rattled First Minister failed to clarify what had happened to communications between senior ministers and civil servants over the two-year period.

Mr Yousaf had promised earlier this year that any and all messages would be handed over to the inquiry in full.

Humza Yousaf was under pressure at Holyrood yesterday

But Jamie Dawson, KC, representing the inquiry, revealed yesterday that none had been submitted into evidence.

This was despite up to 137 messaging groups being used by members of the Scottish Government in relation to the pandemic, he said.

If Humza was trying to convince us he had something to hide then he did a fine job, writes STEPHEN DAISLEY Advertisement

Mr Dawson threatened to impose a section 21 notice demanding the chats involving key decision-makers be handed over, with the potential risk of prison if they fail to comply.

It comes after former Prime Minister Boris Johnson was forced to release a series of embarrassing WhatsApp messages to the UK inquiry after a long legal battle.

Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross raised the issue at First Ministers Questions yesterday. He said: Refusing to hand over these messages would be an insult to grieving families, a shocking display of secrecy, and it would potentially break the law.

Humza Yousaf must come clean about where the messages have gone. If they have been deleted, that would be illegal.

Why is he hiding these messages from grieving families who deserve answers?

Mr Dawson told the London hearing there was evidence that informal messaging systems were widely used by SNP ministers during the pandemic but very few messages appear to have been retained.

He also expressed concern that only one notebook was initially handed over but, when the lack of note-taking was queried, a further 57 were located.

Humza Yousaf at First Ministers Questions, June 29 To ensure that there is simply no doubt whatsoever, any material that is asked for  WhatsApp messages, emails, Signal messages, Telegram messages or whatever  will absolutely be handed over to the Covid inquiries and handed over to them in full. Jamie Dawson, KC, counsel to the UK Covid-19 Inquiry yesterday For the avoidance of doubt, we sought information about the nature and extent of the use of such informal messaging including the groups in which they were sent. No messages were provided.

Mr Yousaf said the concerns will be fully investigated and any information held would be handed over. In June, he assured MSPs that all WhatsApp and other messages would absolutely be handed over to the Covid inquiries.

But Mr Dawson said: The Scottish Government has provided the inquiry with no WhatsApp or other informal messaging material.

Q&A What has caused this row? The UK Covid-19 inquiry has demanded that the Scottish Government provides all messages relating to decisions around the pandemic. It made clear that this would not only cover messages about decisions, but also occasions when matters relating to key decisions were raised. Yesterday, the legal counsel to the inquiry revealed that no messages have been provided. What happens next? The inquiry is currently considering its next steps. It can issue further Rule 9 written requests demanding that witnesses provide specific information, such as WhatsApp messages and particular documents. It is also considering issuing section 21 notices which put a legal obligation on the Scottish Government to provide documents. What if the Scottish Government still fails to provide the messages to the inquiry? Failure to comply with the section 21 notice without reasonable excuse under section 35 of the Inquiries Act 2005 is a criminal offence, punishable on summary conviction with a fine not exceeding 1,000 and/or imprisonment for a maximum of 51 weeks. Will the Scottish Government comply with a request to provide the messages? It looks likely that a section 21 notice will lead to messages being handed over. The Scottish Government has suggested in recent weeks to the inquiry that this is needed to allow it to pass on some messages because of data protection laws around personal information contained in the messages. What if the messages have been deleted? When the UK Covid-19 Inquiry was established, it became a criminal offence to destroy documents or information relevant to the inquiry. Messages deleted before the inquiry was set up are not subject to this. However, the Information Commissioners Office has confirmed that ministers deleting WhatsApp messages could be deemed a criminal offence if they were trying to prevent that information from being disclosed through a freedom of information request. Advertisement

He added that ministers had been asked to set out details of 70 witnesses, including how many messaging groups they participated in and what messages still exist.

Mr Dawson said: A clear theme of the overall response received from and via the Scottish Government is that although such messaging systems were used in the pandemic response, including by some key decision-makers and others, generally very few messages appear to have been retained.

This is surprising, in particular in light of the apparent availability of such messages in high volumes within the UK Government.

This state of affairs has merited further detailed investigation, in particular seeking clarification of whether, how and why messages came to be deleted.

Mr Yousaf insisted that the SNP Government didnt routinely make decisions over WhatsApp, while a source close to former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon stressed that she did not rely on the app and attended the administrations

St Andrews House HQ virtually every day to make decisions.

Concerns were also raised that ministers may be using a function on WhatsApp which allows messages to be automatically removed after a set period.

Lawyer Aamer Anwar, representing bereaved families, said: The revelations are devastating. The families we represent deserve the truth. The Scottish Covid Bereaved [group] find it inconceivable that the most senior figures in the Scottish Government... failed to retain their WhatsApp messages over the two-year period of the pandemic.

We are extremely disappointed by the apparent failure by politicians and civil servants to retain messages and the seemingly widespread use of auto delete. Mr Yousaf pledged an investigation by Solicitor General Ruth Charteris and said he was seeking assurances that do not destroy notices issued by the inquiry had been fully complied with.

The Information Commissioners Office confirmed that deleting the messages could be deemed a criminal offence if those involved were trying to prevent them from being disclosed through freedom of information requests.

The Scottish Government said: It is not the culture within the government to use WhatsApp for decision-making.

Our records-management policy states that government decisions should be recorded in the official record. The UK inquiry has that material from the official record.

The UK inquiry has subsequently asked for WhatsApp messages relating to logistics and day-to-day communication, which of course we will provide.

However, given the level of personal information contained within, we need a legal basis to do so, for example in the form of a section 21 order.

The UK inquiry indicated that it will be issuing us with the requisite legal paperwork to allow us to share those messages shortly.
Israel used a swarm of tanks, bulldozers and APCs to launch a targeted night assault against Hamas targets in Gaza on Wednesday night in its biggest incursion since the terror group's October 7 atrocities.

Ahead of a suspected imminent ground incursion by Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), soldiers burst through border walls separating the Gaza Strip from Israel using armoured bulldozers before claiming to have taken out military targets.

The IDF said it suffered no casualties in the operation to 'prepare the battlefield' after a brutal, fortnight-long siege on the Palestinian territory.

Grainy footage shared on social media showed armoured vehicles crossing the highly fortified barrier from Israel and blowing up buildings 'in preparation for the next stages of combat'.

'Tanks and infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts,' the IDF said.

It represented the most significant escalation of Israeli force since Hamas's bloody rampage across southern Israel saw 1,400 civilians murdered and more than 200 kidnapped.

Leading the push into Gaza territory on Wednesday night was the 'Doobie' - a type of armoured bulldozer that boasts bulletproof windows and metal slats which deflect RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades).

The bulldozers, named after the Hebrew for teddy bear, are designed to burst through obstacles such as border fences and walls in order to pave the way for soldiers and other armoured vehicles.

Also seen in footage of the assault were 50-tonne Namer armoured personnel carriers (APCs) and columns of Merkava tanks.

The tanks can carry up to ten people - four crew and six passengers - and weigh 65 tonnes each.

Last night tanks broke through the northern Gaza border and headed southwards, in a possible rehearsal of a future full-scale invasion.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli troops were still preparing for a full ground invasion, while the US urged Israel to delay, fearing it could ignite hostilities on other Middle East fronts.

Palestinians said Israeli air strikes pounded the territory again on Thursday evening and people in central Gaza reported intensive tank shelling.

Israel's defence minister said his country would invade Gaza when the 'conditions are right'. 'The day it will come is not far off... the manoeuvre will start when conditions are right,' Yoav Gallant said. He added that Israel had no interest in war with any other foe than Hamas.

'We are waging war on the southern front against Hamas, prepared for any development in the north, Hezbollah is suffering a lot of losses.

People search for survivors and the bodies of victims through the rubble of buildings destroyed during Israeli bombardment, in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip

Smoke and fire rise from buildings as people gather amid the destruction in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City on October 26

A man carries an injured child at a hospital in Khan Younis following an Israeli airstrike

Whole areas of Gaza have been razed to the ground

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes

'However, we have no interest in expanding the war,' he said.

Dozens of suspected Hamas terror operatives have been arrested by the IDF in a series of raids in the West Bank.

IDF officers have detained 1,000 Palestinians since October 7, around 660 of whom are thought to be affiliated with Hamas.

The force said it detained 46 suspected Hamas members during the overnight raids on Wednesday. There has been increased violence between IDF forces and Palestinians in the West Bank since the Hamas attacks of October 7.

A ground offensive on the densely populated, 25 mile-long slither of land which makes up the Gaza Strip is seen as necessary by Israel to achieve its aim of crushing the terror group, which has ruled since 2007.

Wednesday's overnight raid was conducted in parallel with an intensified bombing campaign by the Israeli air force on 250 Hamas targets.

The Israel Defence Force (IDF) later published footage it claimed showed its fighter jets carrying out a 'precise air strike' which eliminated the commander of Hamas's Northern Khan Yunis rocket firing capability, Hassan Al-Abdullah.

Philip Ingram, a former British Army intelligence officer, told the Mail that Israel's incursion would have been an attempt to trigger Hamas defences and see where potential ambushes could lie.

He said: 'It's what is called shaping the battlespace. They're putting small forces in to improve their understanding of what defences Hamas have got in place to try to pinpoint potential sniper and ambush locations.

'They will try to look at where there might be entrances to the tunnel system that Hamas could pop up from, that they would have to deal with very quickly.

'You'll find in the coming days, there will be an increase in volume of these at different places across the border, into the Gaza Strip, before they then put a slightly larger force through that will set up a bridgehead which will then be used to launch their main efforts.'

He added that Hamas has had more than 12 months to prepare for a potential ground invasion so Israel will be aware that it is going into 'effectively a pre-prepared live ambush situation'.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israel's war cabinet, said any possible ground offensive would be only 'one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that would take many years'.

'The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force,' he added.

People seek cover during a rocket alert while attending a demonstration calling to release the hostages taken to the Gaza Strip

Wounded Palestinians receive treatment at the al-Shifa hospital, following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City

Palestinians search for survivors and the bodies of victims through the rubble of buildings destroyed during Israeli bombardment

Smoke and fire rise from buildings as rescuers gather amid the destruction in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel on Thursday

An injured man sits in front of a smouldering building in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City

Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry claimed yesterday that the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli air strikes since October 7 now stood at 7,028, including 2,913 children.

It represented an increase of more than 500 since Wednesday.

Israel has bombarded the densely populated Gaza Strip following the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israeli communities. Israel says Hamas killed some 1,400 people including children, and took more than 200 hostages, some of them infants and older adults.

The US State Department said Washington knows that a significant number of people have died in Gaza but does not have independent confirmation of numbers, and it does not trust figures released by Hamas.

The Israeli military has also said Hamas figures cannot be trusted, but has not provided its own assessment. Hamas spokesman Ashraf al-Qidra rejected statements questioning the figures.

The ministry on Thursday published a 212-page document which it said contains the names of all the victims who have been identified and their ID numbers.

In a further attempt to increase the geopolitical pressure on its allies, terror group Hamas yesterday called on Arab and Islamic states to sever diplomatic relations with Israel.

It further demanded all states in the Arab League, whose members include Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, boycott Israel entirely.

The devastation wrought on Gaza from the air has caused a major humanitarian crisis, worsened by Israel's refusal to allow any aid into the Strip through its borders. Egypt has since agreed to help facilitate the delivery of aid through its shared border with southern Gaza and yesterday 12 lorries successfully crossed into the shattered region.

The UN warned that it was on the verge of running out of fuel in Gaza, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts.

The Palestinian Authority health ministry said 100 Palestinians in the West Bank have been killed by the IDF since October 7.

Last night, two drones reportedly targeted US al-Harir air base near Erbil Airport in Iraq, a local news outlet announced.

A delegation from Hamas arrived in Moscow yesterday for talks with the Kremlin, the Russian foreign ministry announced.

Among the Hamas delegation was senior member of the proscribed terror group Abu Marzouk. According to Russian news agencies, the talks centred on the release of foreign hostages including Russian citizens being held hostage in Gaza.

Russia has developed close ties with Hamas as it has become more dependent on Iran's weapons in its war on Ukraine.

It came as the US said an additional 900 troops had either just arrived or were heading to the Gaza Strip on Thursday.

As tensions soar over the Israel-Hamas war, US troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the past week, Pentagon spokesperson Brigadier General Patrick Ryder told a news briefing.

Ryder said US forces were targeted earlier on Thursday in Iraq but the attack failed.
Republicans are ramping up scrutiny of a $200,000 'loan repayment' check from James Biden to his brother Joe - made out while the family was using their last name to 'cash in' on foreign deals.

Oversight Chairman James Comer - who is leading the impeachment inquiry into Joe - is pressing the White House for more information because he believes the check is the strongest evidence yet that the president was directly involved in his family's business dealings.

According to bankruptcy court documents, James Biden took the money from his health care business Americore and sent it directly to his brother Joe Biden in 2018.

But Comer said based on the White House's own records, there wasn't any interest paid on the loan - which is illegal.

It also suggests that the repayment might not have been for a loan after all, he says in a letter obtained by DailyMail.com from Comer to White House counsel Thursday.

'The current lack of documentation leaves reason to doubt claims that this transaction was repayment for a legal loan,' writes Comer who is demanding documents and IRS records.

Comer said the check is the strongest evidence yet that the president was directly involved in his family's business dealings

'We request documentation clarifying the nature of this payment and whether all applicable documentation and IRS filings were properly made,' he continues.

The documents show that in 2018, James Biden obtained $600,000 in loans from Americore. James was able to receive the loans based upon 'representations' that his last name, 'Biden,' could 'open doors.'

On March 1, 2018, Americore wired a $200,000 loan into the personal bank account of James and Sara Biden.

That same day, James Biden wrote a $200,000 check to 'Joseph R. Biden' from his personal account for a 'loan repayment.' At the time, Joe had already left the vice presidency position.

Republicans leading the investigation into the Biden family's 'influence peddling scheme' that is the center of their impeachment inquiry into the president, say this personal check directly shows Joe was aware of - and included in - his family's dealings.

White House spokesperson Ian Sams confirmed last week that the check was indeed for a loan repayment.

'Its a loan repayment from when President Biden loaned his brother money. When he was out of office in 2018, no less. Its right there on the check!' he wrote on X.

However, Sams downplayed its significance, calling the information put out by the Republicans 'failure theater' and a 'shiny object to distract people from how they are incapable of doing the basics of governing.'

Jamie Comer is pretty desperate to try to distract from Republicans speaker mess.



Its a loan repayment from when President Biden loaned his brother money. When he was out of office in 2018, no less. Its right there on the check!



Matt Gaetz was right:



More Failure Theater! pic.twitter.com/Do0DopiX8r  Ian Sams (@IanSams46) October 20, 2023

On March 1, 2018, Americore wired a $200,000 loan into the personal bank account of James and Sara Biden

According to the court documents, James made it seem as though 'he could obtain a large investment from the Middle East based on his political connections.'

In a video put out Friday by Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., he says that 'Americorea distressed companyloaned money to James Biden who then sent it to Joe Biden.'

'Even if this was a personal loan repayment, it's still troubling that Joe Biden's ability to be paid back by his brother depended on the success of his family's shady financial dealings,' Comer states.

A spokesperson told DailyMail.com that the committee 'recently' received the documents that were a result of a September subpoena for Hunter and James' business and personal bank records.

The court document reviewed by DailyMail.com states: 'On March 1, 2018, Americore Health wire transferred the sum of $200,000.00 to Defendant's bank account at PNC Bank, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The documentation evidencing the foregoing wire transfer prepared by Americore Health references the transfer as a 'LOAN.''

The release of the check comes weeks after Republicans held their first hearing in the impeachment inquiry into Joe Biden.

In September, then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy launched the impeachment inquiry - being led by Oversight.

Republicans say bank records show that Biden family and associates raked in more than $20 million from China, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Romania.

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.

As part of the GOP-led probe, they spoke with the president's son Hunter's ex-business partner Devon Archer, who testified that President Biden was in fact aware of his son's dealings and sat in on at least 20 calls and multiple dinners with his son's business partners.

James Biden wrote a $200,000 check to 'Joseph R. Biden' for a 'loan repayment'

Additionally, Republican have uncovered over a dozen shell companies that Hunter and at least 12 members of the Biden family used to funnel in foreign money.

Joe Biden also used various private email addresses from which he would sometimes send, receive and forward government correspondence according to emails found on Hunter Biden's now-infamous laptop.

'Robin Ware,' 'Robert L. Peters' and 'JRB ware' were three pseudonyms used on emails that were about both official and family business.

The White House and the president himself have maintained that he has never been involved in Hunter's or the rest of his family's business dealings.
First Ministers Questions is usually a predictable affair, with the opposition dredging up the weeks big talking points to put the FM on the spot.

Douglas Ross tried a different tack this time, seizing on news fresh out of the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.

Jamie Dawson, KC, counsel to the probe, had just told Lady Hallett SNP ministers had failed to hand over a single WhatsApp message from the pandemic era.

Anyone whos been around the block with this lot knows theyre about as transparent as the Berlin Wall circa 1973.

Even so, withholding messages from an inquiry trying to get answers for grieving families is so low its halfway to Australia.

Humza Yousaf did not foresee the ambush.

Humza Yousaf at First Minister's Questions yesterday

Everything about his body language told us this.

He was a vision of awkwardness: weight shifting, eyes darting, shoulders tensing.

He claimed both to have handed over messages and that he would hand them over, but they have to go through appropriate processes.

Ross found it incredible the First Minister was so clueless. Surely he is aware of whats happening, he sputtered. Are you new here, Douglas?

The Tory leader pointedly asked if the Scottish Government had deleted any messages. The First Minister just as pointedly failed to address the question.

If the object of his performance was to convince people he had something to hide, he did a fine job.

Yousaf may have been caught unawares by this line of questioning but he quickly became deft on his feet.

Asked if ministers had made pandemic decisions via WhatsApp, including in the missing messages, he allowed only that such things had not happened routinely.

No definition or parameters were volunteered. Pointing to evidence of Yousaf and three other ministers using WhatsApp, Ross suggested the First Minister might have inadvertently misled MSPs.

The benches behind Yousaf hissed like a pack of cats whose tails had all been trodden on simultaneously.

The First Minister blurted: I did not inadvertently mislead the chamber! You might want to rephrase that, Humza.

It was entirely the wrong answer for a different reason

. A First Minister claiming not to have lied, thus repeating the attack line of his opponent, is a story in its own right.

A modern-day equivalent of Nixons I am not a crook.

The BBC soon confirmed this by making Yousafs words a headline.

All this could have been avoided by simply handing over the messages, but that would imply he knew about any of this, and his turn before MSPs did not depict a man keenly up on the details.

Its an unfortunate tic the First Minister has: when he talks about events, he sounds like hes commentating on them rather than leading them.

It was the same when he was interrogated by Anas Sarwar over budget cuts at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

He spat out statistics like an old dot matrix printer. Brrrrr more firefighters than England brrrrrr better pay offer to the unions brrrrr fires down 14 per cent brrrrr.

It was that last figure that stood out. Instances of fire down?

Thank goodness fire is such a predictable phenomenon.

Sarwar cited all the places hardest hit: Dundee, Greenock, Dunfermline, Methil, Perth, Glenrothes, Hamilton, Kirkcaldy, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

It was a roster of where the Scottish Governments axe had fallen on frontline fire services  and a list of all the places that wont have an SNP MP much longer the way things are going.

Fireman Bam was undeterred. He accused Sarwar of spin  the very thought!  before assuring the public that ten appliances that had to be withdrawn from duty represented only 1.5 per cent of the fleet. Some might call that spin.

When you hear the answers Yousaf has prepared in advance, you wonder how they can be even more hapless than the ones hes forced to make up on the spot.
A Qantas crew member has been taken to hospital after complaining they felt unwell, with some of those on board noticing an unusual smell.

The QantasLink flight from Canberra to Melbourne landed safely just after 8pm Thursday and the crew member was treated in hospital as a precaution.

Melbourne Airport said emergency services were called after the plane touched down to assess the entire crew, reports 9 News.

Passengers on board reported no injuries or health issues.

The plane is also undergoing maintenance as a precaution on Thursday morning.

A crew member on board a Qantas flight was treated in hospital as a precaution after complaining they felt unwell on a Canberra to Melbourne flight

Fire crews were called as a precaution only and the plane landed safely

There is not expected to be any flight disruptions on Thursday due to the incident.

A Qantas spokesperson said: 'Pilots on a flight from Canberra to Melbourne reported an unusual smell in the flight deck before landing'.

'The aircraft landed normally and the pilots and crew were assessed by ambulance officers on arrival in Melbourne.

'The pilots did not require any treatment, however one cabin crew member was taken to hospital for further medical checks.

'No passengers were impacted by the smell and the aircraft is being checked by engineering.'
READ MORE: Follow DailyMail.com's live blog on the desperate search for Robert Card

Shelter orders have been issued as the suspected gunman remains at large

The streets of Lewiston in Maine transformed into an eerie ghost town in the wake of a horror mass shooting that killed at least 18 people.

Various shelter in place orders have been introduced in the town and surrounding areas in the aftermath, with most schools and local businesses closing their doors while suspected gunman Robert Card, 40, remains on the run.

Haunting images have emerged of the small town where the shooting erupted, where streets are populated only by tactical law enforcement crews and vehicles.

While the streets have fallen silent, some residents stuck heart-shaped cut outs with positive messages such as 'to my friends' and 'to my city' onto trees on sidewalks.

The streets of Lewiston, Maine transformed into an eerie ghost town in the wake of a horror mass shooting that killed at least 18 people

Heart-shaped cut-outs with messages of positivity adorns trees in downtown Lewiston, Maine on Thursday

Haunting images have emerged of the small town where the shooting erupted

A police tactical unit makes its way down a street during the search for mass-shooting suspect Robert Card

A woman hugs a law enforcement official as they investigate outside the site of a mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Grille

A sign of support is seen above an abandoned street in Lewiston

Cops are still hunting for the alleged gunman, with Lewiston's streets remaining abandoned until officials are able to guarantee the safety of its residents.

A multi-agency manhunt is ongoing for suspected gunman Robert Card, 40

The gunman's car was found abandoned in Lisbon shortly after the shooting, with investigations reportedly turning to a body of water that he may have escaped through.

Audio from police dispatchers suggested that the suspect may have crossed the border to Massachusetts, but Massachusetts State Police have said that claim is unsubstantiated.

Card's family have pleaded for him to turn himself in, with his sister-in law claiming he heard voices at the bowling alley and bar where he went on to launch his deadly attack.

Survivors and bereaved family members have begun speaking out following the bloody massacre at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley, and names of victims have begun to emerge.

The rampage has left at least 18 people dead and 13 more injured, meaning it is believed to be the deadliest mass shooting of 2023.

The shooting is the 34th mass killing involving more than four victims in the US this year. Seven of those killed at the bowling alley. Eight were found at Schemengees bar and three others later died in hospital.

Messages of support have popped up around the town in heart-shaped cut-outs

Police control a roadblock during the search for the mass-shooting suspect

An aerial view of Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant, one of two locations where the gunman opened fire

A view of empty streets after curfew is declared at Androscoggin and Sagadahoc Street

At least 18 people were shot dead and a further 13 were injured in the massacre

A police tactical unit makes its way down a street during the ongoing search

Maine Governor Janet Mills confirmed the death toll in a press conference on Thursday morning, adding that Card is considered armed and dangerous.

'This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens, on its peace of mind, on its sense of security,' she said.

Card is wanted on eight charges of murder, as the remaining 10 victims have so far not been identified. He was taken by police for an evaluation earlier this year after military officials grew concerned that he was erratically, a U.S. official told AP.

Nine victims of the 18 dead have been officially named, the first emerging as a retired mechanic who was devoted to his grandkids, Bob Violette, 76.

Violette was killed in the massacre that erupted inside Just In Time Recreation bowling alley, formally known as Sparetime, and Schemengee's Bar and Grille on Wednesday evening, according to his daughter-in-law Cassandra.

The second confirmed victim is Tricia Asselin, 53, who worked at the bowling alley.

Relatives confirmed that the third victim was Joseph Walker, 57, who was a bar manager at Schemengee's.

And Joshua Seal, 36, a father-of-four, was also confirmed dead by his wife, alongside cornhole player Bryan MacFarlane, 40.

Streets are virtually empty as people shelter in place following a mass shooting and subsequent manhunt

Even in late afternoon, people have still deserted the downtown with a shelter-in-place

Police are still searching for a suspect in the shooting, Robert Card, who allegedly killed 18 people

A sign on a Starbucks restaurant in Lewiston announces it is temporarily closed

Retired mechanic Bob Violette, 76, was one of the victims in the massacre, according to his daughter-in-law Cassandra. He was a keen bowler, and played in a couple's bowling league with his wife when they retired

Tricia Asselin, 53, the second confirmed victim, was a part-time worker at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston. She was bowling when the gunman came in and opened fire

Relatives confirmed that the third victim was Joseph Walker, 57, who was a bar manager at Schemengee's

Joshua Seal, 36, (right) with his wife Elizabeth Seal

The fifth named victim of the massacre was Bryan MacFarlane, 40

The fifth named victim was Bryan MacFarlane, 40, who was playing cornhole with his deaf friends. Arthur Strout, 41, and Ron Morin were also confirmed dead by family and friends.

Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40, and Steve Vozzella, 45, were also identified as victims by their family, friends, and colleagues.

As the manhunt for Card continues, a local who claimed to know him alleged that he lived in a compound with a gun-fanatic family who was avoided by neighbors.

Liam Kent, who lives near Card's home in Bowdoin, told The Messenger the community knew the suspect and his relatives as 'gun-toting enthusiasts who lived in 'basically a compound.'

'They would shoot guns all the time, you could hear them every day after school. It was like clockwork,' Kent claimed, adding that he once saw Card 'covered in blood with a gun on his back [and] a giant grin on his face' after going deer hunting.

Hundreds of law enforcement officers are searching for Card- a petroleum supply specialist with no military deployments. The suspect received involuntary psychiatric treatment this summer after he reported hearing voices and having thoughts about hurting other soldiers while training at Camp Smith in New York, a military source told CNN.
Rivera claimed that his former landlord stole the ticket and gave it to Castro

The man who accused billionaire Powerball winner Edwin Castro of stealing the $2.04 billion ticket could be charged with filing a false police report.

Jose Rivera reported to the Pasadena Police Department that Castro 'stole' the winning ticket from him.

Police and California Lottery investigators have tried to find out if a supposed crime took place, but now believe Rivera has lied about his claim.

City of Pasadena Public Information Officer Lisa Derderian told DailyMail.com the local police department had turned over the documentation to the City Prosecutor for potential misdemeanor charges for filing a false police report.

Billionaire Powerball winner Edwin Castro was accused of stealing the winning ticket

Jose Rivera claimed that his former landlord stole the ticket and gave it to Castro

If someone is convicted of filing a false police report in California they can face up to six months in jail, be find up to $1,000, and probation.

Rivera's lawyer, Estela Richeda, has fought hard for her client, telling The US Sun that she 'personally' went to the Pasadena Police station with Rivera to open the case against Castro.

They waited there for two hours before they met with officers and insisted that they investigate the matter.

Rivera claimed that the ticket was stolen by his former landlord 'Reggie', also known as Urachi F. Romero.

Romero told The New York Post that he saw Rivera with the winning ticket on November 7, the same night he claimed to purchase it from Joe's Service Center in Altadena, California.

He also claimed that he later received threats from Rivera but has insisted that he didn't steal the ticket and that he doesn't know Castro.

After Rivera noticed he 'misplaced' the winning ticket, he rampaged through the house Romero was leasing out to him at the time in search of it.

Romero says that he let him look through his personal items because he had 'nothing to hide'.

The landlord went on to take a video of Rivera in his room as he frantically dug through his drawers.

Romero claimed that the ticket could've been taken from a friend who was present the night before the drawing. He added that that friend had a connection to Castro and his family.

Castro hit headlines after winning the $2.04 billion prize back in November and has since gone on to spend his massive prize.

After taxes, Castro was able to claim his $997.6 million prize and bought his lavish pad just a month later, just after being sued by Rivera.

His 13,578-square-foot Hillside, California home comes equipped with a full outdoor kitchen, gym, wine cellar and infinity pool.

The three-story property, which sits behind the iconic Chateau Marmont, holds five bedrooms and five bathrooms.

It also features a movie theatre and sauna as well as two separate garages that can hold up to seven cars.

Castro hit headlines after winning the $2.04 billion prize back in November and has since gone on to spend his massive prize

The pad was first listed back in July 2022 for $30 million but it appears Castro managed to shave $4.5 million off the headline price.

Castro has largely tried to evade the spotlight after his record-breaking win and the on-going lawsuit.

His lawyer, David De Paoli has said that his client did not steal the ticket, does not have a connection to Romero and is the rightful owner of the jackpot prize.

Paoli has told the The US Sun that the lawsuit is 'baseless' and that Rivera wont receive any compensation for it.

The CCTV footage from the store still has to be obtained in order to prove who really bought the ticket at the store.

Castro has laid low since all of the accusations, as the last time he talked about his winnings was at a press conference at the gas station he claimed the prize at.

The most recent hearing stated that because the case was has taken such a sharp turn, the defendants will have to be served again.

A case management hearing has been scheduled for February 27, 2024 after it was originally set to happen this month.
'We need to tell the entire country that until this guy is captured, we need to use due diligence,' said Marko Galbreath, a former police sergeant and SWAT officer

Law enforcement experts said Card, a US Army reservist, may have changed his appearance and could tap into his military training to plot another attack

Fugitive Maine mass shooter Robert Card may have changed his appearance and could use his military experience to evade detection and plot another attack, law enforcement experts told DailyMail.com.

The 40-year-old remained at large on Thursday afternoon after murdering 18 people and injuring more than a dozen others on Wednesday night. A massive manhunt is underway involving hundreds of law enforcement officers from multiple states.

Card, a US Army Reserve soldier, launched the initial attack at a bowling alley in Lewiston at around 6.56pm then struck again at bar and restaurant about four miles away just 12 minutes later.

His car was found abandoned in the nearby town of Lisbon several hours later and he has avoided detection since. Police say he is armed and dangerous.

Marko Galbreath, a former Florida police sergeant and SWAT team member, told DailyMail.com that Card could have traveled anywhere - and the whole country must be vigilant.

Card, a US Army reserve soldier, launched the initial attack at a bowling alley (pictured) at around 6.56pm then struck again at bar and restaurant four miles away just 12 minutes later

The 40-year-old remained at large on Thursday afternoon after murdering 18 people and injuring more than a dozen others on Wednesday night

'He could still be in that area, planning to have a shootout with police, planning to commit suicide, planning to commit another attack. Or, you know what, he could be in Texas right now. We have no idea.

'If he planned it out well enough, he could very well be far from that area right now,' said Galbreath, who provides active shooter response training through his company T4Tactics.

'We need to tell the entire country that until this guy is captured, we need to use due diligence.'

He added: 'He could have shaved, he could have put on a wig, he may change his appearance. He he may not look like what people think he looks like, so we need to really watch.'

Galbreath added that Card's military training would have also provided a survival 'skillset and mindset' which would have taught how to 'live in an environment that's not comfortable'.

Card is believed to have joined the military reserve in 2002. A bulletin sent to police across the country after the attack said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this past summer after 'hearing voices and threats to shoot up' a military base.

A US official said Card was training with the Army Reserve's 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment in West Point, New York, when commanders became concerned about him.

Galbreath said Card's history of mental illness meant he could have taken his own life somewhere secluded to 'keep the fear going' among the public.

A police tactical unit makes its way down a street during the search for mass-shooting suspect Robert Card in Lisbon Falls, Maine, USA, 26 October 2023

Law enforcement outside the home of suspected shooter Robert Card in Bowdoin, Maine, where a search warrant was executed on October 26, 2023

Robert Carlson, a law enforcement officer and firearms instructor who founded the Brave Defender Training Group in Memphis, told DailyMail.com that Card's military history means he has 'the same, if not even a possibly higher level of, training and experience as the responding officers'.

'It does most significantly add an increased level of danger when you have somebody that has some sort of level of training or familiarity with tactics and weapons,' he said.

Carlson said it is important law enforcement provide information so that 'that the public is aware of not only their risk, but also so that they can aid law enforcement in attempting to identify or spot that individual'.

The search has included forests, waterways and small towns around the rural areas in Maine where the shootings took place.

Schools, doctor's offices and grocery stores closed and people stayed behind locked doors in cities as far away as 50 miles from the scenes of the shootings.

Police said they have had no reported sightings of Card since the shootings at Sparetime Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar and Grille about four miles away.

A search warrant was carried out at his home on Thursday and reportedly uncovered a note. His sister reportedly also told police that he may have been searching for his ex-wife, who filed for divorce in 2007.

Card's car (pictured) was found abandoned in the nearby town of Lisbon several hours later and he has avoided detection since. Police say he is armed and dangerous

ewiston Police Chief David St. Pierre speaks during a press conference about the mass shooting on October 26, 2023 in Lewiston, Maine

The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two photos of the suspect walking into the bowling alley with a rifle raised to his shoulder.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills promised to do whatever was needed to find Card and to 'hold whoever is responsible for this atrocity accountable ... and to seek full justice for the victims and their families.'

'We are not, and we will not, rest in this endeavor,' she said.

Eight murder warrants were issued for Card after authorities identified eight of the victims, police said. Ten more will likely be issued once the names of the rest of the dead are confirmed, said Maine State Police Col. William Ross.

Three of the 13 people wounded in the shootings were in critical condition and five were hospitalized but stable, Central Maine Medical Center officials said.

Former FBI agent Brad Garrett Brad Garrett told ABC News: 'Anytime you have somebody on the loose that's committed this atrocious act is a big deal, because you don't know what's in his mind; if he's mentally unstable, if paranoid delusions are still driving him if that's accurate, would he then seek another location?

'Or has he given up and actually shot himself - we just don't know that, but it is really important to locate him whether he's dead or alive.'
A Buffalo sewer worker is shot dead and two others are fighting for their lives after being attacked in their vehicle on I-190 in the southbound lanes.

At least two of the victims were reportedly inside a Buffalo Sewer Authority truck during the time of the fatal shooting.

The vehicle was sprayed with at least eight gunshot - including some bullets that appeared to go through the front windshield and side window. The shots were fired from a late model dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee.

One man died of his injuries while the other two are being treated the Erie County Medical Center, according to a statement by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.

Police say one of the victims is in stable condition, while the second victim is in critical condition.

A Buffalo sewer worker is shot dead and two others are fighting for their lives after being attacked in their vehicle on I-190 in the southbound lanes

The victims were reportedly inside their vehicles during the time of the fatal shooting

All three victims were city workers. Their names have not yet been disclosed to the public.

Officials said it is believed to be an isolated incident and there is no reason to believe there is an ongoing threat to the community.

'We have several leads but currently we do not have a motive for the shooting,' state police said Thursday.

'I am heartbroken to share today that three of our hardworking Buffalo Sewer Authority employees were shot while on the job. One of the gunshot victims sadly died from his injuries,' Brown wrote on Facebook on Thursday.

'The other two are being treated at the Erie County Medical Center. I will provide additional updates as we learn more about what happened. Thank you for keeping these workers and their families in your thoughts and prayers.'

The New York State Thruway Authority announced the closure of all lanes on I-190 southbound between exit 9 and exit 8 at around noon, but reopened the lanes at about 3:13 pm.

Footage is circulating social media, showing a portion the I-190 closed off and a large police presence

Brown said he was heartbroken to share today that three hardworking Buffalo Sewer Authority employees who were shot while on the job - one who sadly died from his injuries

All three victims were city workers. Their names have not yet been disclosed to the public

Police say one of the surviving victims is in stable condition, while the second victim is in critical condition

One man died of his injuries while the other two are being treated the Erie County Medical Center, according to a statement by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown

The New York State Thruway Authority announced the closure of all lanes on I-190 southbound between exit 9 and exit 8 at around noon, but reopened the lanes at about 3:13 pm

'Motorists should expect delays and may wish to use alternate routes. All southbound traffic is being diverted off Exit 11 Scajaquada Expressway (NY Route 198).'

Footage is circulating social media, showing a portion the I-190 closed off and a large police presence.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a statement on the shooting following a briefing Thursday afternoon.

'I have been briefed on the shooting that occurred this morning on the Thruway near downtown Buffalo and have directed the New York State Police and the Thruway Authority to work with local law enforcement to provide any assistance necessary as the investigation continues.'

'The State Police have confirmed one life has already been lost, and I join all New Yorkers in praying for our first responders and those in harm's way.'

'As the investigation continues, all southbound lanes in the area are blocked and traffic is being diverted away from the scene. I urge all New Yorkers to remain cautious and follow instructions from first responders and local law enforcement officials working to keep New Yorkers safe.'

State police are investigating the incident and are requesting anyone with information to come forward..
The man accused of murdering teacher Ashling Murphy was 'in very low spirits... even desperate' after confessing to killing her, a court has heard.

Jozef Puska had allegedly just told officers: 'I did it, I killed her' when questioned in hospital through a Slovakian translator.

He now denies murdering the 23-year-old primary school teacher, who was stabbed as she jogged along the Grand Canal in Tullamore, Ireland, last year.

Speaking at Dublin's Central Criminal Court yesterday, the translator who took the extraordinary confession said Puska was 'quite emotional'.

Miroslav Sedlacek said Puska had stressed that he was sorry, and that he did not understand how the killing had happened.

Irish primary school teacher Ashling Murphy, 23, was stabbed as she went for a jog along the Grand Canal in Tullamore, County Offaly, last year

Jozef Puska had allegedly just told officers: 'I did it, I killed her' when questioned in hospital through a Slovakian translator. He now denies murder

Gardai at the Grand Canal at Cappincur, County Offaly, where Ms Murphy was found dead

He said: 'I would describe him as being in very low spirits and I would say even desperate after the confession.'

Click here to listen to the Mail's new podcast The Trial 'The Trial...' takes listeners behind the headlines and into the courtroom of some of the biggest trials in the world. Our first series 'The Trial of Lucy Letby' was a worldwide hit, with over 13million downloads. Season 2 focuses on the killing of Ashling Murphy, a 23 year old teacher from Ireland. Follow the trial's evidence, with twice-weekly reports from Deputy News Editor for Mail on Sunday Ireland Nicola Byrne and broadcast journalist Caroline Cheetham. Advertisement

Mr Sedlacek told the court that he had translated two conversations between police and the suspect two days after the murder, while Puska was being treated for stab wounds in hospital.

The first concerned a separate alleged attack in Blanchardstown, a suburb of Dublin, in which he claimed he had been stabbed by two 'dark-skinned men'.

Mr Sedlacek said the second conversation took place in the evening, while Puska was still on the hospital ward.

He said he translated a search warrant issued for Puska's personal belongings, telling him it was related to a murder investigation.

Mr Sedlacek continued: 'Jozef wanted to know if he was a suspect... [officers] explained to him that he's not a suspect, he's a so-called person of interest.

'Jozef asked me personally to translate his confession. He said: "Please tell that I did it  that I killed her, but please tell him [the officer] also that I did not do that intentionally".'

He said Puska asked him to relay 'that I did not want to do it and that I am sorry that I did it and it happened'.

He added: 'Jozef was very concerned for the safety of his family. His question after he had made the confession, was: "Do you think my family members' names will go public?".'

He said the officer replied that the family would not be named, but that Puska would be, during the proceedings.

'The next question was, is there any possibility the girl's family would look to take any revenge to his own family for what Jozef did to her?' he said.

Mr Sedlacek continued: 'His voice changed significantly during the conversation  after he made his confession he was quite emotional, so his voice was trembling.'

The trial continues.
Female genital mutilation survivors have said that the historic conviction of a woman who flew a three-year-old girl to Kenya for the procedure will send 'shivers down the spine' of all abusers in the UK.

In a landmark case Amina Noor, 39, was convicted by jurors at the Old Bailey of aiding the female genital mutilation of a three-year-old British girl during a trip to Kenya in 2006, making her the first person to be convicted in England of committing the crime overseas.

Hibo Wardere, 54, author and co-founder of the charity Educate not Mutilate, which hopes to eradicate FGM in the UK, told MailOnline: 'The conviction is amazing and a historical one. It is absolutely brilliant because this is the first time ever they have used the law.

'This is a game changer, the way I look at it, it's going to be unbelievable.'

Ms Wardere, from Walthamstow, London, said she hopes the conviction is one step further to end the practice once and for all.

'This will send shivers down the community in the UK. It means it doesn't matter when you cut a girl. If she's a British kid, they come after you,' she added.

Hibo Wardere, 54, author and co-founder of the charity Educate not Mutilate, which hopes to eradicate FGM in the UK, said: 'The conviction is amazing and a historical one. It is absolutely brilliant because this is the first time ever they have used the law'

In the first conviction of its kind, Amina Noor, 39, has been found guilty at the Old Bailey of assisting a non-UK person to carry out female genital mutilation on a three-year-old British girl during a trip to Kenya in 2006

The anti-FGM campaigner also spoke out about her own harrowing experience: 'I was six years old when I was mutilated. And I remember every gory, painful detail, everything, it's like I was cut yesterday.

'Today, I cried when I heard the news. And you know why? It took me back to six-year-old Hibo, who was helpless, screaming, begging for mercy, but nobody was listening.'

The law on FGM Female genital mutilation has been a specific offence in the UK since the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985. The 1985 Act was replaced by the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003. The 2003 Act includes assisting and taking children abroad to be cut. Carrying out FGM currently carries a maximum prison sentence of 14 years. In 2019, the mother of a three-year-old girl became the first person to be found guilty of FGM in the UK. The woman was jailed for 11 years for mutilating a little girl, aged 3, at her flat in Walthamstow, London, in the landmark case. However, until now, no one had been convicted for taking a girl abroad for the FGM. Advertisement

She said nobody listened because those who mutilated her, among them her own mother, thought they were 'helping her'.

'Nobody ever cared about what we are going to be facing because the community normalised the death and the destruction that comes with FGM,' Ms Wardere explained.

She decided to speak out about what had happened to her 11 years ago and has since worked as an FGM educator, visiting schools and health care professionals to talk about the barbaric practice and how to prevent other girls going through what she went through.

While she was overjoyed about the landmark conviction, she said more had to be done. 'It's about time the UK government really took a stand and put resources into prevention,' she said.

'Our charity Educate not Mutilate are in demand with little resources and I hopes this [conviction] makes the government sit down and start thinking about how they can help girls in the UK.

'I am so fed up of our government not giving resources to UK girls. These are your children. These are British children that you need to protect.

'[Education about FGM] needs to be funded properly so we have a chance to end it. We need the resources to educate in schools so we don't have these cases happening in the future.

'I just need the government to be part of our work and establish FGM education for all ages in schools.'

Another campaigner welcoming the verdict is Nimco Ali, an FGM survivor who founded the Five Foundation and was awarded an OBE for her activism.

She told The Guardian: 'It is incredible that the mandatory reporting by teachers and healthcare professionals  that we have fought hard for  is starting to pay off.

'A girl was obviously failed. She was let down by the system but she got some form of justice today thanks to the policies that we now have in place.'

She added that FGM had to be addressed both in the UK and elsewhere in the world 'by working together to address the root causes of the issue'.

Another campaigner welcoming the verdict is Nimco Ali (pictured), an FGM survivor who founded the Five Foundation and was awarded an OBE for her activism

The judgement against Noor today has also been hailed by prosecutors, who said the case 'will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported'.

The court heard that Noor had taken the three-year-old girl to a 'clinic' via tuk-tuk where she was asked to wait outside a private house as the child was mutilated.

Her crime only came to light years later in November 2018 when the victim, then 16, told her English teacher what had happened.

When Noor, from Harrow, London, was confronted by police she acted shocked and claimed she had not been 'told the truth' about what would happen to the victim.

She instead argued that she thought the little girl would have been injected or pierced in a procedure known as 'Gudniin' - the Arabic word for circumcision.

But medical experts who examined the child found she had not been simply injected but had suffered severe mutilation of her genitals, which most likely would have caused significant bleeding and extreme pain.

Giving evidence throughout her trial, Noor claimed she was threatened with being 'cursed' and 'disowned' from her community if she did not take part.

Noor was born in Somalia but moved to Mombasa in Kenya when she was eight after the outbreak of civil war in Somalia

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino hailed Noor's conviction, saying: 'This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported'

She told the jury this threat was painful and she had 'no power' to do anything in that situation.

The case saw the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) working alongside the police and National Crime Agency to prove that during her visit to Kenya, Noor knew some form of FGM was being committed against the victim.

Investigators were able to find that she intentionally assisted with the commission of the offence.

More than 3,000 new FGM cases a year in UK, stats suggest Figures produced by the NHS in 2022 suggested there may be more than 3,000 newly identified victims of FGM in the UK each year. NHS Digital produced stats of cases which were spotted by nurses or doctors around the country. It is thought the majority of cases involved mutilation abroad. The up-to-date figures, which were supposed to be released on December 1, were delayed for more than two weeks until December 20 due to 'operational issues'. In the three quarters of data collection this year up until September, 2,320 new cases of FGM were identified by nurses and doctors in the NHS. Advertisement

Noor will be sentenced at a later date. She did not react as the Somali interpreter told her the verdict. The maximum sentence she faces is 14 years in jail.

The only other successful prosecution under the FGM Act of 2003 was in 2019 when a Ugandan woman from Walthamstow, east London, was jailed for 11 years for cutting a three-year-old girl.

The 37-year-old woman, who cannot be named, had arranged for the little girl to be pinned down and mutilated in a filthy flat in east London in August 2017. She was jailed for 13 years at the Old Bailey.

It is estimated that 94 per cent of Somali women living in Kenya undergo the horrendous procedure in the mistaken belief that it is a religious requirement.

After Noor's victim told her English teacher what had happened to her when she was a toddler, she was taken to a hospital where she was examined.

The court heard: 'On 11 January 2019 [the victim] was medically examined by doctors at University College Hospital here in London. It was found that her clitoris had been completely removed.'

Noor was born in Somalia but moved to Mombasa in Kenya when she was eight after the outbreak of civil war. In 2003 she was granted refugee status in the UK before she became a British citizen in 2005.

Prosecutor Deanna Heer, KC, had previously told jurors that Noor flew the victim to Kenya in 2006.

'Whilst they were there, she took [the victim] to the house of a Kenyan woman, where she was subjected to female genital mutilation. That involved the complete removal of her clitoris. At the time, she was just three years of age.'

Giving evidence, Noor had said she feared being 'cursed' if she did not allow the young British girl to have the procedure.

When probed, Noor said the procedure was called 'Sunnah' - an Arabic word meaning 'tradition' or 'way' - and 'Gudniin' - the Somali word for circumcision.

Noor, who was today convicted by a jury at the Old Bailey in London, will be sentenced at a later date

'You will hear expert evidence that 'Sunnah Gudniin' is a particular term which means removal of the clitoris,' Ms Heer said.

Giving evidence Noor, assisted by a Somali interpreter, said she did not know what the words meant at the time.

She claimed she did not know the toddler's clitoris had been removed and that she had been told she only had an injection to withdraw blood.

Noor said she took the child to a 'clinic' via tuk-tuk, arriving at a private house where she did not know if the people were doctors. She told police she had to wait outside while the procedure was performed.

Noor said that while the child had cried while it was being carried out she did not appear to be in pain afterwards and was 'happy and able to run around and play'.

She claimed it had only taken five minutes and did not pay for it and denied arranging the procedure. She described the clinic as being like a 'living room' with three doors leading to where the girls would have the procedure.

Noor told the court: 'I was told it would take only five minutes, nothing's going to happen just stay out and she will come back out.

'She said something is going to be done, a drop of blood, it's nothing, nothing wrong is going to happen.

Noor claimed she was told that during the procedure 'nothing much is going to happen to the person, it's just making sure a bit of blood is coming out.' Afterwards the child was in pain while urinating.

Years later when the police told Noor the victim's clitoris had been removed she acted shocked.

'I was lied to. When that lady had told me what was going to be done I was not told the truth,' she said.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino hailed Noor's conviction saying: 'This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about what's actually happened to them.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy speaking to the press following the conviction

'It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesn't matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.'

She added: 'Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

'Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, it's often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of what's happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.'

What is female genital mutilation (FGM)? Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there's no medical reason for this to be done. It's also known as female circumcision or cutting, and by other terms, such as Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others. FGM is usually carried out on young girls between infancy and the age of 15, most commonly before puberty starts. It's illegal in the UK and is child abuse. It's very painful and can seriously harm the health of women and girls. It can also cause long-term problems with sex, childbirth and mental health. Source: NHS Advertisement

'It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesn't matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted,' she said.

Jaswant Narwal, CPS national lead for honour-based abuse, female genital mutilation and forced marriage, added: 'Female genital mutilation is a form of violence against women and girls, and in the latter case it is child abuse.

'There are many complexities involved in prosecuting this type of offending, which can be committed in close-knit communities, historically, and abroad, but this is no barrier to the CPS prosecuting wherever our legal test is met.

'We are clear there is no place for this unacceptable practice in society. We will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to safeguard and support victims of FGM and bring perpetrators to justice.'

Speaking outside court Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said FGM is a 'serious crime', 'child abuse' and a 'human rights violation'.

In a statement outside court, he said: 'I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

'If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.'

Noor said she did not go to school or have any education.

Noor, of Edgware, north-west London, pleaded not guilty, but was convicted of assisting a non-UK citizen to mutilate the genitals of a girl contrary to the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003.

If you want to support Educate not Mutilate in their fight to end FGM by providing workshops in schools and among health care professionals, click here
Bruce Lehrmann is accused of twice failing to wear a condom while having sex with a young woman he met during a night out, after the political staffer and his alleged victim both allegedly snorted a line of cocaine.

The former parliamentary staffer can now be identified as the high-profile Toowoomba man accused of raping a woman in Queensland following a night out with friends after he lost a court battle to keep his identity secret on Thursday.

Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape in January this year following an alleged incident at a home in Toowoomba, west of Brisbane, in October 2021. In Queensland, having unprotected sex without a sexual partner's permission is considered sexual assault.

Lehrmann has not entered a plea to the charges but denies the allegations. Daily Mail Australia understands that he intends to plead not guilty.

Bruce Lehrmann (pictured) can now be identified as the high-profile man accused of raping a woman in Toowoomba two years ago

The alleged victim claims she met Lehrmann at The Vault strip club (pictured) in Toowoomba where he allegedly told her his name was 'Bryce'

Laws in Queensland which banned the media from publicly identifying alleged sex offenders unless the matter was committed to trial were overturned last month.

Details of the alleged rape can be revealed after Supreme Court judge Peter Applegarth lifted a non-publication order banning media from publicly identifying Lerhmann.

The woman alleged she met Lehrmann on a night out that began when she joined friends at the Powerhouse music venue in Toowoomba.

After drinking with friends, she then went to a strip club called The Vault, where she consumed more alcohol and met Mr Lehrmann.

Mr Lehrmann allegedly introduced himself as 'Bryce'.

Later, police allege the woman took a taxi with Mr Lehrmann to his friend's house.

They had sex once that night and twice in the morning, but the woman alleges the last two times were not consensual because he allegedly wasn't wearing a condom.

Failing to wear a condom without a partner's permission is considered sexual assault under Queensland law.

According to a court brief obtained exclusively by The Australian newspaper, the pair used cocaine during the night.

Police will allege the woman told Mr Lehrmann she needed a morning-after pill and that he agreed to drive her to a chemist in a farm ute.

Afterwards, she allegedly asked Mr Lehrmann to take her home and he stopped at McDonald's on the way.

It will be alleged in court that the pair exchanged messages on Snapchat for a few days after the encounter, but soon lost contact.

Weeks later, the woman was allegedly speaking to a friends mother about the Brittany Higgins case when she searched for details on her phone and saw Mr Lehrmann's photo - and recognised him as the same person who allegedly had sex with her.

The woman reported the matter to police the next day before making a formal statement.

Lehrmann was charged with two counts of rape in January.

Police will allege they have CCTV footage from the strip club showing the pair leaving together, and evidence that the man booked a taxi.

The alleged night out in Toowoomba was weeks after Lehrmann appeared in an ACT court over unrelated allegations that he raped then-parliamentary colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019.

He pleaded not guilty in that case and was never convicted. He has always maintained he never had sex with Ms Higgins.

Bruce Lehrmann has lost a major legal battle to keep his identity in a high profile rape case protected

It comes after Queensland Supreme Court Judge Justice Applegarth took a brutal swipe at Lehmann on Thursday while making his decision to dismiss a non-publication order which protected the accused's identity.

Lehrmann conducted an interview with Channel Seven earlier this year - something which was taken into account by Justice Applegarth.

He said that Lehrmann's decision to take part in the Spotlight interview - as well as other interviews on Sunrise and Sky News - were at odds with his lawyer's claims that media coverage of the new allegations could damage his mental health.

'A cynic might say: "I hope Channel Seven paid him, or his solicitors, a lot of money", for the consequences it had on his application, if nothing else,' Justice Applegarth said in court on Thursday.

The judge added that while being named would 'weigh heavily' on Mr Lehrmann, the 'unfortunate effect on his mental health' was not enough reason to uphold the non-publication order.

Earlier this month a magistrate ordered the non-publication order protecting his identity be revoked but his legal team appealed to the Supreme Court, seeking that decision be quashed.

Media companies opposed the order continuing.

Due to laws in Queensland that initially prevented the identification of people charged with prescribed sexual offences, including rape, Mr Lehrmann's identity could not be revealed when he first faced court in January this year.

That protection was revoked earlier this month after the Queensland state government changed parts of the legislation.

However, before the changes took effect, the man's lawyers successfully applied to the Supreme Court for a non-publication order allowing their client to remain protected.

On October 12, this order was revoked in Toowoomba Magistrates Court, with the man's lawyers signalling they would appeal the decision immediately after.

Media companies had pointed to prominent interviews Mr Lehrmann conducted

At the time, the court was told the high profile man was at a 'substantial' risk of self-harming should his identity be published.

But Supreme Court Justice Peter Applegarth said Mr Lehrmann had not established a non-publication order was necessary to protect his mental health, with his evidence failing to 'compel' the Magistrate it should remain in place.

Media companies had pointed to prominent interviews Mr Lehrmann conducted with Channel 7's Spotlight and Sky News Australia.

It was submitted on behalf of the media entities there was an 'incongruity between the applicant's public presentation and what was said about him by the psychologist.'

Justice Applegarth found the magistrate did consider the evidence from the psychologist in her initial decision.

'Rather than lower his public profile and retreat from the media spotlight, the applicant chose for whatever reason to appear more than once on national television and revisit events that had triggered his mental illness in early 2021,' he said in his judgment.

'He seemingly felt well enough to engage with sections of the national media, and to deal with any resulting further coverage he received from the media outlets he appeared on and other media that followed up on his high-profile appearances.

Justice Applegarth said Mr Lehrmann had not established the magistrate's decision was unreasonable in the legal sense 'or so unreasonable that no reasonable magistrate could have made that decision'.

During a judicial review on Thursday, the man's defence barrister Andrew Hoare told Brisbane Supreme Court court the magistrate's decision should be quashed and the non-publication order continued.

He said if his client was to be identified, he would be at an increased risk of 'catastrophic' self harm.

Mr Hoare said the sitting Magistrate made an error in determining his client had chosen not to seek medication or see a psychologist.

'The risk is greater if there is not that support in place (or) engagement with health professionals,' he said.

'The use of the term 'That is his choice' imports a type of obligation on the applicant.'

Mr Lehrmann's identity as the high profile man can be revealed after a Supreme Court judicial review and non-publication order was dismissed on Thursday

The court was told a forensic psychologist held 'grave concerns' for the high-profile man's mental health.

But Rob Anderson KC, appearing for the media entities, questioned the likelihood of harm to the applicant.

'There is no error of law,' Mr Anderson said of the magistrate's decision.

Justice Applegarth noted any decision regarding non-publication orders would not advance or halt the conduct of any future committal hearing. He said the degree of risk needed to be considered.

'The focus of the hearing seems to be what can one make of the state of the defendant's psychology at the moment and what effective measures are available to him to reduce the identified risk,' he said.
The bear leapt up on to its hind legs and swiped at the unidentified security guard, shoving him to the ground, before it quickly left the scene

A security guard at the five-star St. Regis Aspen Resort in Colorado was attacked by a black bear after it wandered into the building.

Security footage captured the attack at the luxury hotel which happened late on Monday night.

The staff member heard some commotion in the kitchen and went to investigate which is when he was attacked by the bear.

It leapt up on to its hind legs and swiped at the unidentified security guard, shoving him to the ground, before it quickly left the scene.

He called 911, received treatment for scratches to his back and was released from hospital on Tuesday. While the bear was later found and euthanized by officers. =

The black bear appears in the doorway and swipes at the man which sends him flying to the ground alongside a small cart

He immediately gets up and runs away and the bear disappears in the opposite direction

A clip shows the security guard heading towards the back of the kitchen before he is startled and attempts to head back.

The black bear appears in the doorway and swipes at the man which sends him flying to the ground alongside a small cart.

He immediately gets up and runs away and the bear disappears in the opposite direction.

The security guard called 911 and was treated for his injuries while authorities searched for the animal.

Wildlife officers spotted a black bear at around 10pm on Tuesday and hazed it into a tree at 2am.

The bear was tranquilized and removed from the tree with a fire ladder, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Wildlife officers spotted eight bears around downtown Aspen while searching for the bear.

But they said a distinctive white patch on the bear they were looking for helped confirm its identity.

The security guard called 911 and was treated for his injuries while authorities searched for the animal

The animal was then euthanized and sent to a Colorado Parks and Wildlifelab in Fort Collins for a necropsy.

'Using the footage provided by the hotel, we were able to confirm the aggressive behavior of the bear and identify unique physical characteristics of the bear that assisted in the proper identification of the offending bear,' area wildlife manager Matt Yamashita said.

The agency noted that although the bear was found in the kitchen it 'noted the lack of food-related attractants and cleanliness of the kitchen'.

There are an estimated 17,000 to 20,000 bears in Colorado and the population is said to be 'stable and growing'.
Entire neighbourhoods in Gaza have been obliterated by air strikes, satellite images revealed yesterday as the UN warned: 'Nowhere is safe.'

Israel's aerial bombardment of the enclave has reduced whole districts to rubble, forcing an estimated 600,000 people into emergency shelters.

Satellite images revealed the extent of the devastation, showing piles of debris where homes, shops and businesses once stood.

Israel insisted its strikes have targeted Hamas leaders and infrastructure, and that it warned civilians to evacuate northern Gaza and head south.

But air strikes have also hit the south of the Palestinian territory, where more than a million people have attempted to find safety.

The head of the UN's Palestinian aid agency said Gaza now resembled 'hell on earth', with evacuated families facing intolerable dangers and hospitals unable to treat the wounded and the dying.

Civil defense teams and residents conduct a search and rescue operation for Palestinians stuck under the debris of a demolished building following Israeli airstrikes hit Al-Shati refugee camp in Gaza City on October 24

A Palestinian child is assisted as people search for casualties at the site of an Israeli strike on a residential building in Gaza City, on October 25

UN representative Philippe Lazzarini said Gaza's civilian population was not responsible for the deadly Hamas raids that prompted the war and should not be punished for the gunmen's brutality.

Writing in The Guardian, he said: 'Entire neighbourhoods are being flattened over the heads of civilians in one of the most overcrowded spots on earth... There is nowhere safe in Gaza.

'The reality today in Gaza is that there is not much humanity left and hell is settling in.

'History will ask why the world did not have the courage to act decisively and stop this hell on earth.' Some 7,028 Palestinians have been killed in the air strikes according to Gaza's health ministry, which is run by Hamas.

The US questioned the accuracy of the death toll, prompting authorities in Gaza to issue a 212-page dossier of names and identity numbers. Thousands more have been injured, with hospitals reporting they have no electricity for life support machines or operating theatres.

Doctors have operated without anaesthetics and have resorted to using vinegar to clean wounds after supplies of antiseptic ran out. Almost 3,000 children were said to be among the dead and families have taken to tying cotton bracelets to children's wrists so their bodies can be identified.

The Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, told an emergency session in New York: 'What choice do you make as a parent when there are only impossible choices? When death is everywhere, devastation is everywhere.'

He said 40 per cent of homes in Gaza were destroyed. Israel's ambassador to the UN hit back, detailing atrocities carried out by the Hamas gunmen during the October 7 raids and holding up photographs of those killed.

The international community largely supported Israel's right to defend itself following the raids, but it now faces growing calls for a ceasefire to prevent a humanitarian disaster in Gaza.

Aid agencies said more than a million people had fled after Israel's evacuation order to leave northern Gaza, placing huge demand on scant resources in the south. Up to 30,000 have since returned north after they were unable to find shelter, food and water.

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, on Thursday

Charities said starvation had been used as a 'weapon of war' and that people were so thirsty they had been drinking seawater. Israel has eased its 'total siege' on Gaza to allow some humanitarian aid to enter on trucks from Egypt.

But aid workers say the limited supplies of food, water and medicines are a tiny fraction of what is needed, and Israel has refused to allow any fuel in amid fears it will be used by Hamas.

The UN said its emergency aid work could not continue without fuel, as trucks could no longer distribute aid and bakeries could not make bread to feed the desperately hungry.

The World Health Organisation said hospitals were 'on the precipice of an unimaginable humanitarian catastrophe' as fuel and supplies ran out.

UN spokesman Tamara Alrifai said dwindling supplies of fuel were not enough for vital services. 'Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries?' she said. 'It is an excruciating decision.'

Last night, EU leaders called for 'humanitarian corridors and pauses' to get aid into Gaza, but stopped short of calling for a total ceasefire.
Estrada told congressional investigators he didn't have enough lawyers to pursue the president's son

A top Biden-appointed U.S. Attorney has confirmed he declined to prosecute Hunter Biden for tax crimes, bizarrely claiming he was 'resource-strapped' and didn't have enough lawyers to handle the case.

DailyMail.com reviewed the transcript of a closed-door House Judiciary Committee interview with Martin Estrada, the U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, which was conducted on Tuesday.

Estrada detailed a phone call he had in October 2022 with David Weiss, the U.S. Attorney in Delaware, who is leading the criminal investigation into Hunter Biden's alleged gun and tax offences.

During the call Weiss asked Estrada to partner with him on the Hunter Biden case - but he declined.

When asked by congressional investigators why he did not pursue charges against the president's son, Estrada said that he was short-staffed.

He said: 'I was down 40 AUSAs (Assistant U.S. Attorneys) at the time, so we were very resource-strapped.

'We were trying to hire as much as possible and had very limited resources. And every attorney you assign to a case means you can't do another case.'

Estrada added: 'And it seemed he (Weiss) didn't push back when I told him the situation, that we wouldn't be co-counseling, but he did express appreciation when I offered administrative support.'

Martin Estrada is an American lawyer who serves as the United States Attorney for the Central District of California since September 2022

The House Judiciary Committee is run by Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio

Estrada's interview came after two IRS whistleblowers - Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler - testified under oath that Hunter Biden received 'special' treatment in the investigation into his financial dealings.

According to a transcript of the interview Estrada said that, although he declined to jointly prosecute the case, he felt it was 'immaterial' to whether Weiss ended up bringing charges.

Estrada also maintained he 'never' took any steps to block Weiss from pursuing charges against Hunter Biden in California.

In August, Weiss was appointed special counsel by Attorney General Merrick Garland after the IRS whistleblowers came forward. That increased his powers to pursue the case.

Last month, Weiss charged Hunter Biden with three felony counts related to lying on a federal gun application form while under the influence of drugs.

He pleaded not guilty and faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

The not guilty plea comes after Hunter Biden previously agreed a plead deal that would have seen him avoid jail time.

That deal collapsed in the summer after what Republicans criticized it as a 'sweetheart' deal.

Republicans including House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan have pointed out discrepancies between Attorney General Merrick Garland and Special Counsel Weiss' public statements on the Hunter Biden case, about who had 'full authority' to charge the president's son.

Estrada told investigators he did not agree with the characterization that Weiss had 'ultimate authority' to bring charges in any district - before he was appointed special counsel.

'I thought [Weiss] had authority to bring the charges wherever he chose to when he was U.S. Attorney and certainly as he is now special counsel,' Estrada said.

But when further pressed about the exact definition of 'ultimate authority' he backtracked and called the phrase 'vague.'

Estrada also said that only the Attorney General holds the 'ultimate authority' for the entire Department of Justice.

U.S. Attorney Weiss will be questioned in Congress behind closed doors on November 7

Hunter Biden was in court in September to plead not guilty to three felony counts related to lying on a federal gun application form while under the influence of drugs

House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan will question Weiss behind closed doors in November

Weiss previously sent a letter to the House Judiciary Committee attempting to clarify his role in the probe and insisted that he does hold the 'ultimate authority' in the criminal gun and tax case against the president's son.

He explained that as the U.S. attorney for Delaware, his charging authority is normally 'geographically limited' to that district - but said that Attorney General Merrick Garland had promised to grant him special attorney status to bring charges anywhere.

However, Garland said that Weiss was free 'to make a decision to prosecute any way in which he wanted to and in any district in which he wanted to.'

The DOJ attempted to clear up the discrepancies in a letter to the committee chairman Jim Jordan.

It said: 'While testimony at this early juncture must be appropriately limited to protect the ongoing matter and important confidentiality interests, the Department acknowledges your stated interest in addressing aspects of this matter in the near term, such as U.S. Attorney Weisss authority and jurisdiction to bring charges wherever he deems appropriate.'

DailyMail.com has also confirmed that Weiss will be questioned in Congress behind closed doors on November 7.
A Massachusetts mom who suffered from post-partum psychosis and allegedly strangled her three children to death is being held without bail and committed to psychiatric care because she is 'at imminent risk of self-harm,' a judge ruled.

Judge William F. Sullivan ordered that Lindsay Clancy, 33, be held without bail and committed to psychiatric care at Tewksbury Hospital for six months during a court hearing conducted via Zoom on Thursday morning.

Judge Sullivan found Clancy at 'at imminent risk for self-harm' after Dr. Karin Towers, a forensic psychiatrist reported during the arraignment that Clancy is experiencing 'unbearable depression and trouble getting through each day'

'It is my opinion that she does require ongoing psychiatric hospitalization,' Towers said after she examined Clancy earlier that morning.

Clancy pleaded not guilt to three counts of murder and strangulation after she allegedly attacked and killed her three children Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and 8-month-old Callan on January 24 at the family home in Duxbury.

Clancy, from Duxbury, Massachusetts, was not visible during the video conference held at Tewksbury Hospital, and her next court date is scheduled for December 15.

Lindsay Clancy, 33, was ordered to be held without bail and committed to psychiatric care at Tewksbury Hospital for six months during a court hearing on Thursday morning

Judge Sullivan found Clancy at 'at imminent risk for self-harm' after Dr. Karin Towers, a forensic psychiatrist reported during the arraignment that Clancy is experiencing 'unbearable depression and trouble getting through each day

Prosecutor Jennifer Sprague provided additional details about the events of January 24, during which a fitness watch tracing Clancy's path from the basement - where she alleged strangled her children with exercise bands - to the second floor.

Investigative affidavits showed the mother cut her wrists and neck before jumping from the second-floor window.

Sprague said the curt were 'superficial' and did not require stitches, carrying doubt on how serious Clancy's suicide attempt was. She added that the wounds were not bleeding by the time her husband had found her.

Sprague mentioned that Clancy appeared to know who she is, emphasizing that there were 'no hallucinations or delusions' in Clancy's notes, where she documented her life and the lives of her children.

Clancy's defense attorney, Kevin Reddington, countered Sprague's argument by saying he 'was able to see the blood that was on the floor, on the wall, on the windowpane' from his client's wounds, in contrast to what Sprague described as a 'dinky cut.'

A court document obtained by DailyMail.com Tuesday revealed that she allegedly researched methods of killing before she strangled her three children to death and attempted to take her own life.

The mother, a labor and delivery nurse, then attempted to take her own life which left her paralyzed from the waist down. She remains in hospital even going as far as to address the court from a hospital bed.

Clancy allegedly attacked and killed her three children Cora Clancy, 5, Dawson Clancy, 3, and 8-month-old Callan Clancy

Lindsay Clancy, 33, was indicted by a Plymouth Grand Jury in mid-September on three counts of murder and strangulation

The unsealed affidavit showed that investigators obtained a warrant for her electronic devices, where Clancy would journal about her mental health and feelings about children, but also 'researching ways to kill.'

Clancy was suffering severe postpartum depression and had been prescribed an 'over the top' cocktail of pills that her forgiving husband Patrick Clancy believes are to blame for the tragedy.

The investigators took bottles of diazepam, amitriptyline and trazodone, all antidepressants, from Clancy's home on January 25. All three had been prescribed to her within the last 16 days.

It's also revealed that Clancy's husband, Patrick, was in the basement when police had arrived to check on Lindsay and knew 'something was wrong because his children would not wake up.'

He approached the police and started screaming: 'She killed the kids!' as he made the discoveries, finding two of his children with band around their necks, turning their faces 'blue and purple.'

Authorities did a full search on the home and went through home cameras, receipts, a CVS bag containing a child's laxative Lindsay had asked Patrick to buy, the murder weapons, the knife and several notebooks.

Clancy was suffering severe postpartum depression and had been prescribed an 'over the top' cocktail of pills that her forgiving husband Patrick (second from left) believes are to blame for the tragedy

The tragedy occurred on January 24 at the family home at 47 Summer Street in Duxbury

A well-wisher visits the makeshift memorial that grew in front of the family's Duxbury home

The books included a more full list of medications Lindsay was being prescribed: Zoloft, Valium, Trazodone, Ativan, Klonopin, Prozac and Seroquel. It did not appear she had been given all of these at the same time.

Post partum psychosis is defined by the National Institutes of Health as the severest form of mental illness in that category, and is characterized by extreme confusion, loss of touch with reality, paranoia, delusions, disorganized thought process, and hallucinations.'

It usually occurs within the first six weeks after giving birth and 'warrants immediate medical and psychiatric attention and hospitalization if the risk of suicide or filicide exists.'

Clancy's lawyer, Kevin J Reddington, previously told a judge that the drugs she had been prescribed left her feeling feeling like a 'zombie'.

A chilling audio of the 911 dispatch call made by Patrick that night reveals the extent of the horror.

Patrick found his wife lying outside their home after returning from collecting takeout food for the family.

As first responders arrived on scene and tended to his wife, Patrick could be heard screaming in the home's basement.

There he found the children unconscious and blue with exercise bands around their necks.

The state's chief medical examiner would declare the two older children had died of asphyxia, while little Callan had died from complications from asphyxia.

Clancy was arraigned on February 7 from her Brigham and Women's Hospital bed.

Patrick (pictured with his kids) found his wife lying outside their home after returning from collecting takeout food for the family

'The real Lindsay was generously loving and caring towards everyone - me, our kids, family, friends, and her patients' Patrick said of his wife

'One of the major issues here is the horrific overmedication of drugs that caused homicidal ideation, suicidal ideation' Reddington said in February.

'They [Lindsay and her husband Patrick] went to doctors repeatedly saying 'please help us.'

'This was turning her into a zombie...the medications that were prescribed were over the top, absolutely over the top.

'She had medical care and treatment on a regular basis. And her husband was very proactive in trying to protect her and help her with the doctors' medication she was prescribed.

'They went through hell  and they didn't come back,' he said.

In a GoFundMe message to friends and strangers who have raised $1million for him, he said: 'I want to ask all of you that you find it deep within yourselves to forgive Lindsay, as I have.

'The real Lindsay was generously loving and caring towards everyone - me, our kids, family, friends, and her patients.

'The very fibers of her soul are loving. All I wish for her now is that she can somehow find peace.'
Who would have thought it? But there she is, our brilliant Dame Maggie Smith, star of the new advertising campaign for fashion house Loewe.

Dame Maggie poses against a brick wall in an oversized, shaggy brown shearling coat clutching Loewe's best-selling Puzzle bag. In another, she wears a wide-skirted black and white dress, and in a third a rather more conventional high-necked, blue silk shirt.

Master-minded by creative director Jonathan Anderson and photographer Juergen Teller, there is no attempt to retouch the lines on her face, nor the bony fingers of old age. Indeed her age  88  is the whole point. Witness the public reaction. Four other, lesser-known, young faces were photographed for the same campaign, but they have provoked no publicity, while Dame Maggie's appearance has been greeted with social media shrieks of joy.

It is all part of a current trend  the use of old age to add a new and unexpected element to fashion images. Stick a traditionally-attractive young male or female model in a new collection, and what is there to say? It's just so blah. But fling an octogenarian national treasure into a campaign and you have a story.

Dame Maggie poses against a brick wall in an oversized, shaggy brown shearling coat clutching Loewe's best-selling Puzzle bag

In another, she wears a wide-skirted black and white dress, and in a third a rather more conventional high-necked, blue silk shirt

Catherine Deneuve wearing the classic Saint Laurent trench coat by Anthony Vaccarello

Charlotte Rampling, 77, also looks sensational in the newly launched Massimo Dutti campaign

Helen Mirren at the 'Walk Your Worth' show during Paris Fashion Week at the Eiffel Tower 2023

Dame Mary Berry, 88, better known for her Victorian sponge than her fashion nous, is seen smiling perkily with a cup of tea wearing a blue and white Burberry print scarf in their ad campaign

Vanessa Redgrave, 86, famous not only for acting but her trenchant Left-wing views, poses in Trafalgar Square wearing one of Burberry's trench coats

Choosing Dame Maggie, an actress of world-wide fame thanks to her starring role as the Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey and as Professor McGonagall in Harry Potter, rather than her incandescent stage appearances over six decades, is a very clever way to ramp up the conversation about an old brand like Loewe.

But it's not just Loewe. In the past year there've been countless pairings of older women and fashion houses, a trend kicked off by Phoebe Philo in 2015 when she was at Celine. Philo used the then 80-year-old Joan Didion as a model in her sunglasses campaign. Didion in her time was not only a fabulous writer, but regarded as an extremely stylish woman rarely seen without her oversize glasses, so there was a logic to her appearance.

Charlotte Rampling, 77, also looks sensational in the newly launched Massimo Dutti campaign. While French actress Isabelle Huppert, 70, is a chic brand ambassador for Balenciaga, as was announced a few months ago.

Others are more random. Dame Mary Berry, 88, better known for her Victorian sponge than her fashion nous, is currently seen smiling perkily with a cup of tea wearing a blue and white Burberry print scarf in their ad campaign, while Vanessa Redgrave, 86, famous not only for acting but her trenchant Left-wing views, poses in Trafalgar Square wearing one of the luxury house's trench coats.

A year or so back, 80-year-old Catherine Deneuve, long-time l'ami de la maison, re-emerged in Saint Laurent advertising. Helen Mirren, 78, increasingly choosing to look more eccentric, is now practically house model for Dolce & Gabbana, appearing at their sumptuous Alta Moda events dressed in extravagant ballgowns. She was also seen recently stalking the catwalk for L'Oreal wearing her silver hair in a wild, crimped style. So what's going on? Is fashion truly saying that women in their 70s and upwards are their new target customer? Are these houses using the talent associated with these personalities to add a heavyweight lustre to their bags and dresses?

Or are they hoping to capture the much desired clicks of consumers swamped by the countless campaigns, shows and merchandise of an ever-expanding fashion industry?

When I look at all these images, that too-often quoted Jenny Joseph poem comes to mind: 'When I am an old woman I shall wear purple. With a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me.'

To hell with it, I'll do as I wish now I'm old!

Hackneyed as those lines have become, that's the spirit fashion is trying to tap into. For the truth is, the white dress worn by Maggie Smith in those pictures would blend in perfectly on a 20-something model striding down the Loewe catwalk, but on her it looks downright peculiar. The striking wackiness of the image is what makes it successful. Because that's what advertising is about. An ad campaign nobody notices is a disaster.

It's also a luxury the major fashion brands can afford to indulge in because they are well established. We know what Yves Saint Laurent stands for  sexy Parisian fashion. We know that Burberry is a heritage British outerwear company. Their advertising no longer needs to introduce us to their product, it just has to keep the name centre stage.

A new fashion company no one has heard of is far less likely to launch itself on the world using an 88-year-old woman  and incidentally wouldn't be able to afford famous ones like these.

Note, too, that these really are quite old. A 2022 survey by Italian academics points to a divide between the 'young elderly' aged 65-74, and the 'old elderly' of 75 upwards. And it is the latter that holds particular allure for these fashion houses as it is at this age they feel they can go the whole Iris Apfel. Apfel, who, at 102, has been feted for years for her crazy, colourful style and Mr Magoo spectacles, last year oversaw a sell-out collaboration with H&M.

As we find more ways to hold back the appearance of age, a conventionally good looking 60-year-old is nothing extraordinary. The gym, cosmetic intervention, better health care and the increase in lifespan has shifted the dial on the age where being old is remarkable. And remarkable is what is desired.

It's interesting to contrast these images of women in their 80s with the recent Vogue cover of the original supermodels all in their 50s. Unlike these 'old elderly' personalities, Linda, Christy, Naomi and Cindy were not being celebrated for how they really look. Instead they were heavily retouched to Barbie smoothness because they just aren't old enough.

Iris Apfel sitting for a portrait at her 100th birthday party at Central Park Tower, New York City

Isabelle Huppert, 70, on the L'Oreal catwalk in Paris

Joan Didion (pictured in an ad campaign for Celine) in her time was not only a fabulous writer, but regarded as an extremely stylish woman rarely seen without her oversize glasses, so there was a logic to her appearance

Indeed, it's the middle ground that has always been a problem for fashion, which traditionally feeds off youth and is now playing with old age. In 2007, as editor of Vogue, I introduced an annual Ageless Style issue. The concept was to celebrate style at all ages, not to tell women how to dress at a certain age, and it was regularly one of the best-selling of the year.

Looking back at that first issue featuring seven models  Yasmin le Bon, Cecilia Chancellor, Lizzie Jagger, Lily Cole, Jacquetta Wheeler, Erin O'Connor and Marie Helvin  it seems extraordinary now that Marie, at 55, was the oldest.

That was then, however, and in the past five years or so, there has been at least an attempt at greater diversity in fashion  in terms of shape, race and age. British Vogue put 85-year-old Judi Dench on their cover in 2020, but it was Vogue Philippines which landed the trophy for oldest cover star earlier this year, with 106-year-old Apo Whang-Od, an indigenous tattoo artist.

Of course, today's industry leaders are no spring chickens themselves. Giorgio Armani is 89; stylish Miuccia Prada is 74; Anna Wintour, 73, and Ralph Lauren is 84. They will be keenly aware that there is a market for fashion at a later age, particularly since, at least among the relatively wealthy, spending power increases once children have left home and mortgages are paid off.

Ultimately, though, fashion's use of older characters is an attempt to subvert the normal, rather than reflect the normal. I'd be surprised if the trend continues for long, as it will lose its potency. Fashion has to keep on doing something new to keep our interest.

But I did think Maggie Smith looked rather great. Only another 23 years till I can carry off that Yeti-style coat.
The statue of General Robert E. Lee that sparked Charlottesville's Unite the Right rally has been secretly melted down by the city's black history museum.

The statue of Lee, who was a prominent slave owner and revered Confederate Army general, was removed from its plinth in Charlottesville, Virginia, in July 2021.

Following protests by Black Lives Matter after the death of George Floyd and the infamous Unite the Right rally in 2017, the city council voted to have it removed.

After being taken down over two years ago, the statue has now been secretly melted down inside a Southern foundry.

According to The Washington Post, the statue was cut into fragments and then dissolved in a furnace at a secret location due to fears of backlash.

The 26-foot-tall bronze statue of General Robert E. Lee was removed from its base in July 2021

White supremacist groups had fought for the statue to not be taken down, with the infamous 'Unite the Right rally congregating at the statue.

Hundreds of Ku Klux Klan members, neo-Nazis and other white nationalists streamed into Charlottesville for one of the largest gatherings of white supremacists.

The Washington Post said that Charlottesville's black history museum obtained the statue and had it melted down.

Andrea Douglas, the museum's executive director, told the outlet: 'Well, they can't put Humpty Dumpty back together again.'

The Post said bronze ingots from the Lee statue will be used by a group known as 'Swords Into Plowshares' to make a piece of public artwork to be displayed in Charlottesville.

The newspaper quoted the owner of the foundry, a Black man who was not identified, as saying it was an 'honor' to melt down the statue.

He added: 'The risk is being targeted by people of hate, having my business damaged, having threats to family and friends.

'When you are approached with such an honor, especially to destroy hate, you have to do it.

Portrait of Gen. Robert E. Lee, officer of the Confederate Army, from The Library of Congress

The statue of Confederate General Robert E. Lee being removed in Charlottesville, Virginia, in July 2021

'It is time to dismantle this hate, this infection that has plagued our beautiful country.'

Opponents claim the statues of Confederate generals were not built as memorials, but as a means to intimidate African Americans and glorify white supremacy.

However, supporters say that bids to remove Confederate statues are an attempt to erase history.

White supremacists rallied by torch-light at the state in May 2017, following a small group of Klansmen in July, far outnumbered by peaceful protesters.

The issue reached a crescendo in August, when white supremacist and neo-Nazi organizers of the 'Unite the Right' rally gathered in the city to defend the statue of Lee.

They seized on the issue for publicity, meeting in what was the largest gathering of extremists in at least a decade.

They brawled in the streets with anti-racist counter protesters as police largely stood by and watched.

In August 2017, white supremacists marched on Charlottesville to protest the removal of Confederate war monuments across the south

A group of white activists participate in a torch lit march through the University of Virginia campus ahead of the Unite the Right Rally in Charlottesville back in August 2017

White supremacists are seen gathering under the statue of Robert E. Lee during the Unite The Right rally

A short time later, James Alex Fields, Jr - an avowed white supremacist and admirer of Adolf Hitler - intentionally plowed his car into a crowd of people, killing Heather Heyer, 32, and leaving others with life-altering injuries.

Fields entered a guilty plea to federal hate crimes in a deal that spared him from possibly getting the death penalty for killing the anti-racism activist.

He admitted that he intentionally plowed his speeding car into a crowd of anti-racism protesters when he entered his guilty plea.

Fields was convicted of first-degree murder and other state charges for killing Heyer and injuring others

After the Unite The Right rally in August 2017, the Lee statue was covered with black tarps on-and-off for a period of six months.

Heather Heyer (left) was killed by white nationalist, Alex Fields Jr (right), while counter-protesting in Charlottesville in August 2017

In Richmond, another statue of General Lee was also removed to fanfare from BLM protestors in September 2021.

Virginia Governor Ralph Northam made the decision to remove the statue last year ten days after George Floyd's killing by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin.

The statue was erected in 1890, 25 years after the end of the Civil War, and 20 years after Lee's death.

It was funded by the Lee Monument Commission, founded in 1886, which was led by Lee's nephew, former Virginia Governor Fitzhugh Lee.

Children are seen playing near the newly unveiled Emancipation and Freedom Monument

After the removal of that statue of Lee, a new monument to Virginia's African Americans who fought for emancipation was unveiled just two miles away from the site.

Designed by Oregon sculptor Thomas Jay Warren, the monument features two 12-foot bronze statues of newly freed slaves.

In a statement after the Richmond statue was removed, then Gov. Ralph Northam said: 'This was a long time coming, part of the healing process so Virginia can move forward and be a welcoming state with inclusiveness and diversity'.

He added that it represented '400 years of history that we should not be proud of'.
The Turkish president has condemned Western leaders for their 'embarrassing' silence on Israel's bombardment of Gaza.

Tayyip Erdogan raised his anger over the Palestinian death toll in a call with Pope Francis yesterday.

It is a further sign that the Turkish premier has reversed attempts to improve relations with the West, after earlier this week describing Hamas as a 'liberation group'.

He told the Pope that Israel's attack on the Gaza Strip was 'a massacre' and added that the 'international community's silence about what is happening is a shame for humanity'. In a separate televised speech yesterday, Mr Erdogan vented his fury at the West's 'unconditional' support for Israel.

Tayyip Erdogan raised his anger over the Palestinian death toll in a call with Pope Francis yesterday

Black smoke raises from Eastern Gaza City

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis

He claimed international law was being 'ignored' because the 'blood being spilled is Muslim blood'.

He added: 'How many more children must die before the EU Commission calls for a ceasefire?

'How many more tons of bombs must fall on Gaza before the United Nations Security Council can take action?' Mr Erdogan also said Israel's barrage of Gaza has exceeded self-defence and descended into 'oppression, brutality, a massacre and barbarism'.

Gazan authorities have said more than 7,000 people have been killed in the territory since October 7.

The Vatican said the two leaders discussed 'the dramatic situation in the Holy Land' during their call.

It said the Pope is 'hoping the two-state solution can be reached as well as recognising a special status for the city of Jerusalem'.
Around 200 Brits contacted Foreign Office for help in advance of the invasion

Rishi Sunak has sent Border Force teams to Egypt to help evacuate Britons still trapped in Gaza.

The Prime Minister is also pushing for a pause in fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach besieged Palestinians.

Around 200 British citizens have contacted the Foreign Office for help in advance of Israel's expected invasion of Gaza, Mr Sunak said.

The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza is the only border point in the territory that is not controlled by Israel.

Israel has agreed to allow aid through the crossing but it remains closed to people.

Rishi Sunak (pictured) has sent Border Force teams to Egypt to help evacuate Britons still trapped in Gaza

Palestinians recover the body of a person from under the rubble of buildings destroyed during Israeli bombardment, in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on October 26

People in Gaza gather in the aftermath of an Israeli air strike on the region

Cairo has reportedly blamed Israeli attacks around Rafah for the border point not being open to foreign nationals.

British Jews feel worst fear since 1945, says Chief Rabbi Britain's Jewish community is experiencing fear 'we haven't had since 1945', the Chief Rabbi of the Commonwealth has said. In unprecedented comments, Ephraim Mirvis said the 'pain runs very deep' after the Hamas terrorist attacks. He warned the rise in anti-Semitism had left Jewish people feeling a level of fear they had not experienced since the end of the Second World War. The Chief Rabbi told ITV News: 'That pain runs very deep. The fear that's running through the Jewish community now I think we haven't had since 1945. And we have gone through many challenges since that time. 'Certainly, it is palpable right now and it is shared by so many good people in this country who very much identity with that suffering and to whom we feel indebted.' Speaking of the wave of pro-Palestinian protests in the UK, he added: 'There is a lot of anxiety and seeing so many thousands of people on the streets openly supporting the Hamas terrorists certainly has caused a lot of anxiety within our community. 'We are fortunate to have the full support of our government and police forces at this time.' The Chief Rabbi added: 'It would be helpful if some parts of the media would give a more balanced, accurate and fair assessment and presentation of what it is happening. 'And we can benefit more from some of our friends who have been silent until now  and whose silence is quite deafening  together with greater efforts to ensure that those who are supporting evil on the streets of Britain will be dealt with in an appropriate way for a great country such as ours.' It comes after the BBC received widespread criticism for failing to call Hamas a terrorist group. Advertisement

Air strikes have devastated parts of Gaza and the United Nations has warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the enclave. Mr Sunak yesterday repeated calls for temporary breaks or 'specific pauses' in the violence that could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed.

Fewer than five Britons are believed to be among the hostages and officials fear that some of those missing have been killed.

But many more are trapped in Gaza as Israel continues to conduct air strikes and raids in its fightback against Hamas. Mr Sunak told a press conference in London: 'In terms of evacuating nationals from Gaza it's a complex situation.

'There's around 200 the Foreign Office is in contact with. We have been for a while, and obviously that's been a feature of all my engagement in the region and with leaders, particularly in Egypt and Israel. We're very keen to be able to bring them out and bring them home.'

The Prime Minister said the Government had 'pre-positioned Border Force teams to Egypt so that if there is a possibility for our nationals to cross the Rafah crossing we're ready to get them and bring them back'.

He added: 'And I've had that reassurance as well from the Egyptian president that they will work with us on that, and so we stand ready to do that.

'But there's a lot of complexity on the ground and around the security situation there, so it's not something we can do immediately. But when the moment arises we'll be ready to take it quickly. We will do everything we can to get our nationals out.'

Thousands of Palestinians have died in strikes by Israel and an even greater loss of life could come if a full invasion aimed at crushing Hamas is launched.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a cessation of violence. But the Prime Minister's spokesman said a ceasefire would 'only benefit Hamas'.

Deputy PM Oliver Dowden, who hosted an emergency Cobra meeting with ministers and officials yesterday, refused to be drawn on how long a humanitarian 'pause' should last.

He said it would 'depend on the circumstances on the ground' for delivering aid into Gaza.

He told Times Radio: 'For example, if you think about the Rafah crossing taking aid from Egypt into Gaza, to enable that aid to be transferred safely into Gaza, it would depend on the circumstances on the ground. But that is certainly something that has been urged by our Prime Minister, and indeed the Defence Secretary discussed it with his Israeli opposite number just yesterday.'

People search for survivors and the bodies of victims through the rubble of buildings destroyed during Israeli bombardment, in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on October 26

The Border Force mission comes after the Government announced that British citizens fleeing Gaza, Israel, Lebanon or the Palestinian territories will be exempt from residency tests and able to access benefits more quickly.

The changes will mean Britons fleeing the conflict can access social housing and homelessness assistance without delay.

Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride said: 'We've been working quickly to ensure British nationals arriving from Israel, the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Lebanon can receive the support and security they need during a time of unspeakable turmoil.

'As the UK continues to step up its response to the fast-moving circumstances in the region, the regulations which come into force today will speed up access to benefits, ensuring those eligible can access the help they need.' Usually, a person must be resident in the UK for around three months before being eligible for a number of benefits  whether they are a British citizen or not.
The Cabinet Office has admitted the report was shared with 64 British officials

Government documents unlawfully described Julia Hartley-Brewer as a 'known vaccine sceptic', officials have admitted.

The Cabinet Office was forced to apologise to the TalkTV presenter after it emerged one of her social media posts had been included in a report on 'vaccine hesitancy'.

Ms Hartley-Brewer had commented 'No. No. No. NO!!!' on an article about the Health Secretary and Education Secretary's joint letter to parents encouraging them to vaccinate their children.

Although she had publicly spoken about taking the vaccine herself, and regularly spoke of its benefits on her show, her name was included in a dossier compiled by Whitehall's 'Rapid Response Unit' (RRU).

Last night Ms Hartley-Brewer said: 'I am shocked that the British government spent time during a pandemic monitoring, attempting to censor and smearing a journalist who was simply trying to do her job by asking the right questions and challenging the prevailing orthodoxy.

Although she had publicly spoken about taking the vaccine herself, and regularly spoke of its benefits, Ms Hartley-Brewer's name was included in the dossier

'I was not a "known vaccine sceptic", as my on-air and online comments clearly prove.

'A government unit that was supposed to challenge foreign governments disseminating lies online was used against British journalists and MPs expressing reasonable concerns about Covid policies. And now we have proof that this same unit was actually responsible for lying about me.

'I am particularly concerned by the fact that the British government shared this false information about me with a US government counter-terrorism unit set up to tackle Russian, Chinese and Iranian propaganda. This is very sinister.'

The Cabinet Office has admitted the report was shared with 64 British officials as well as counter-officials in the US.

Further transparency requests revealed Ms Hartley-Brewer's opposition to vaccine passports had been logged and shared by government units.

In a written apology to the presenter, officials admitted the reference to her as a vaccine sceptic was 'inaccurate and not impartial'.

The error was discovered by civil liberties group Big Brother Watch during a probe into the government's counter-disinformation activities, particularly those of the controversial RRU.

The RRU was formed in 2020 to crack down on 'false and misleading narratives' around coronavirus and disbanded two years later.

The Cabinet Office has admitted the report was shared with 64 British officials as well as counter-officials in the US

The RRU was formed in 2020 to crack down on 'false and misleading narratives' around coronavirus and disbanded two years later (File Photo)

Director of Big Brother Watch, Silkie Carlo, said: 'It is outrageous that UK government 'counter disinformation' staff monitored British journalists and spread harmful misinformation about them across the corridors of power, not only in the UK but even with counter-terror officials in the US.

'It's absurd that taxpayers are funding this multi-million pound counter-dissent project under the guise of 'countering disinformation', but also extremely chilling that so many journalists, politicians and ordinary citizens have been treated like the enemy within simply for criticising controversial government policies.

'The government's secretive Counter Disinformation Unit should be suspended immediately, and parliament should open an inquiry into its deeply disturbing activities.'

A Cabinet Office spokesman said: 'This matter is subject to ongoing legal correspondence and the Cabinet Office cannot comment any further at this time.'
The King yesterday convened five leading charities operating in the Middle East to focus resources on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in the region.

Charles, who is president of the British Red Cross, held an audience at Buckingham Palace to 'discuss the acute humanitarian situation'.

The King has already expressed deep concern about the crisis, and has asked to be kept 'actively updated' on it. Earlier this month he said he was 'appalled by and condemns the barbaric acts of terrorism in Israel' and has spoken to the Israeli president personally.

But sources say the sovereign is also keen to use his 'lifelong experience of the Middle East' to support those in need 'across the boundaries of faith and community'.

Concern: The King meets workers from aid organisations yesterday

Message: Zeina, nine, said: 'I have been displaced five times I feel sad as my brother died in one of these strikes and I did not have a chance to say goodbye. I miss my neighbours and I miss my friends. I no longer play. Our life is a nightmare... please let the war end'

Yesterday he held an audience with the Crown Prince of Kuwait, whose country has joined many Arab states in condemning the civilian casualties of the Israeli response to Hamas' terror attacks.

It is understood their talks included the importance of tolerance at times of global turmoil. He then met the Red Cross head of region for the Middle East, the vice chairman of Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP), and representatives from Unicef UK and Christian Aid.

MAP representatives shared a message from colleague Nawraz Abu Libdeh's daughter Zeina, nine, with the King. She said: 'I have been displaced five times I feel sad as my brother died in one of these strikes and I did not have a chance to say goodbye. I miss my neighbours and I miss my friends. I no longer play. Our life is a nightmare... please let the war end.'

A spokesman said: 'His Majesty's expression of care for Medical Aid for Palestinians' staff in Gaza was deeply appreciated.' While condemning Hamas' terror attacks, Charles has tried to emphasise the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

It is unlikely that his late mother would have convened such meetings, showing the King's desire to be a more active monarch.
Bill and Aaron Young

Bill Young and his 14-year-old son Aaron were both confirmed dead Thursday by Bill's cousin Kim McConville, who lives in Pennsylvania.

She described her cousin and teenage son as 'innocent people' to NBC Boston.

'Just innocent people out for a night of bowling,' she said. 'This was a children's event. You know, who expects a shooter to go into a children's event? But you know, this is a crazy world that we live in today.'

Winthrop High School, where Aaron attended, also confirmed his death in a statement Thursday, adding that another student had lost their uncle in the shooting.

'We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Aaron Young, a Freshman at WHS, and his father, Bill, during the shooting last night,' the statement read.

The school will remain closed Friday due to the continued manhunt and will re-open Monday on a two-hour delay.

Bob Violette

Bob Violette was born and raised in Lewiston and married his wife Lucy almost 50 years ago. They shared three sons, Andrew, Tom and John, along with six grandchildren.

Bob also set up a youth bowling league at Sparetime Recreation, now known as Just In Time - which was one of the locations targeted in the mass shooting last night.

Violette spent his time coaching kids at bowling, and he was remembered as someone who 'passed away doing what he loved.'

Speaking about her father-in-law, Cassandra told the Portland Press Herald: 'He wouldn't let you walk out the door without giving him a hug, and a kiss on the cheek.

'He was just there for everything.'

Bob loved his wife, and his 'first thought every day was her.' He also loved his grandchildren dearly, Cassandra said.

According to the outlet, Bob was trying to protect kids at the alley, and his wife Lucy was injured on Wednesday night.

Tributes poured in for the beloved bowler. Brandon Dubuc wrote: 'Bob Violette was one of the kindest souls in the bowling community in Lewiston. He would have done anything for the kids in the community and he genuinely loved coaching them.

'Bob passed away doing what he loved. He is a hero in my book. Much love to all of Bob's family, friends, and those that were touched by him throughout the community. Rest in peace Bob. I am so very sorry.'

Sarah Vincent also wrote in tribute: 'Bob Violette you will be truly missed. Not only were a customer of mine from the alley for many years you were also a friend. I cant wrap my head around this. May you rest in peace my friend.'

Tricia Asselin

Tricia Asselin, 53, the second confirmed victim, was a part-time worker at Just-In-Time Recreation in Lewiston. She was bowling when the gunman came in and opened fire.

Asselin's brother DJ Johnson confirmed her death to CNN, and said that his other sister was also at the bowling alley but she was able to escape.

Johnson said his sister Tricia 'was the rock of the family' and 'kept everyone on an even keel.

He added: 'If there was an argument going on, she would be the one to calm everyone down.

'If somebody was having a bad day, she would be right on the phone to talk to you about it.'

Her brother said: 'What I'm told is that when it all started happening, she ran up to the counter and started to call 911, and that's when she was shot.

'That was just her. She wasn't going to run. She was going to try and help.'

Tricia was also remembered as a devoted mother-of-one.

DJ Johnson said: 'She and I talked probably three or four times a week and we texted every day. Her son was her entire life. From the day he was born to yesterday. She did everything for him  he was her world.'

Tricia's mother, Alicia Lachance, told Rolling Stone: 'She ran to get her phone to call 911 to save the kids, and she was shot.

'It's very emotional, but Tricia is the type of person who would have done anything for children and anybody. At her work at Walmart years ago, she gave mouth-to-mouth to a guy who was dead for 20 minutes because she was trying to revive him.'

Joseph Walker

The third victim to be identified was Joseph Walker, 57, who was the son of Auburn City Councilor Leroy Walker.

He was a bar manager at Schemengee's and was working when gunfire broke out, reports CBS News.

Brenda Lee Henry, his sister, wrote in tribute: 'I love you brother oh why we had a 5 year plan we were going to do big plans.

'My big brother I love you, You always had my back and Zi had yours. I'm so lost right now. I will take care of Tracey Walker I promise.

'I know you're telling me to stop crying and calling me names. My heart is broken.'

Leroy, his father, told NBC Boston that he was informed his son had died.

One of his employees Olivia Guadagno, paid tribute to Joseph, who she said was a 'great boss' who was 'generous and fatherly.'

She said: 'Just got the most devastating news, that I was hoping and praying was inaccurate. My boss at Schemengees and the station grill, Joseph Walker passed away.

'He was a great boss, the generous and fatherly type. He was a great time, always joking and poking fun.

'Joey impacted every single one of us. A hard a** on the outside but a teddy bear on the inside. I appreciate all of the support Joe has given me, I appreciate the second chance he gave me, and all of the memories that came with it.

'I am so sorry Joe. I am so heartbroken over this. You didn't deserve this, none of us did.'

Joshua Seal

Joshua Seal, 36, a father-of-four, was also confirmed dead by his wife.

Elizabeth Seal, his wife, wrote on social media: 'It is with a heavy heart that I share with you all that Joshua Seal has passed away no, he was murdered, in the 10/25 shooting in Lewiston. It still feels surreal

'For those of you who knew him, first and foremost, he was the world's BEST father to our four pups.

'He was always there for them, lending an eye or a hand and going to their sporting/extracurricular activities. He always loved spending time with them, traveling, going for a day trip to the beach, or going camping for the weekend.

'Not only was he an amazing father, he was a wonderful husband, my best friend, and my soulmate.

'He was also a wonderful boss, an incredible interpreter, a great friend, a loving son, brother, uncle, and grandson. He loved his family and always put them first.

'That is what he will always be remembered for. We love and miss you so so much already, Joshua Alfred Seal. Forever & Always, No Matter What'

A friend of Joshua, Joseph Robinson, wrote online: 'My heart aches to find out that my good disc golf buddy Joshua Seal have gone too early.

'I'm so sorry for him and his beautiful family. I met him through disc golf and loved playing against each other.

'What a great friend of mine and will be missed. RIP will never forget you.'

Bryan MacFarlane

The fifth named victim of the massacre was Bryan MacFarlane, 40.

He was participating in a cornhole tournament at Schemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant at the time, his sister Keri Brooks told CNN.

MacFarlane, who is deaf, loved to play cornhole with his community. He was also a keen motorcycle rider, and often was with his dog named M&M.

Brooks said: 'I grew up in Maine and the deaf community is a tight-knit community. Not only was my brother slain but my friends were too.'

According to Brooks, her brother was one of the first deaf people in the state of Vermont to get his commercial trucking driver's license.

'Many states don't let deaf drive trucks so I'm very proud of him for achieving that. He worked as a truck driver for several years,' Brook said.

One of his friends, Elijah Williams, wrote: 'Fly high my friend Bryan MacFarlane! RIP. He is one of many victims at Lewiston, Maine mass shooting. I hope the shooter will be caught asap. Praying for his family.'

Arthur Strout

Arthur Strout, 41, also died in the mass shooting. He 'left this earth doing something he loved and enjoyed,' which was playing pool, his former partner Bonnie said.

Bonnie Ann, who is the mother to Arthur's child, wrote on social media: 'Yes it's true and I have no words.

'I can't begin to imagine him gone my son Marcus Strout Caron lost his father Arthur Strout in the mass shooting that took place at the pool hall he left this earth doing something he loved and enjoyed.

'Artie as I called him had our son at a young age of 18 we had gone and lived our lives after we spent when Marcus was 3 he's now 23 and we made a means to our past together and he was building a relationship with his son.

'Artie was a good man he was very well known and loved by all he will be missed more then he would have every thought.

'I love you always Artie I'll never forget the dumb little faces you use to draw!

'Our son shouldn't have lost his father it's not fair .. I hope this guy gets what he has coming to him .

'All my love and support goes out to his family/my family in this time.

'As I'm lost I'll be there for anyone that I can be . . He looks just like him.'

A friend, Eric Edwards, said in tribute: 'You was always there for me whenever I needed you even at my worst,you always believed in me no matter what.

'It's hard to believe your really gone ill miss you every day and you will always be in my heart just sitting here thinking of all the times we talked and how you always pushed me to be a better person to be strong and confident in life.

'You was always an inspiration to me and I always wished I was more like you i always looked up to you big brother and anyone was lucky to have you in there life you was an amazing father / husband and so much more miss you Arthur Strout

'You'll be missed by many forever loved by all.'

Ron Morin

Ron Morin, who lived in Lewiston, was spoken about as 'an upstanding man with a lot of joy in his heart,' according to Rosa Storer, who cut Morin and his wife's hair for over 25 years, according to the Bangor Daily News.

Amanda Morin, his niece, posted to Facebook Thursday: 'I'm lost for words, life is so unfair sometimes. You will be so missed Uncle Ron.'

'He was just always smiling, happy,' added Cecile Francoeur Martin, a family member.

'Just one of those people that if you are having a bad day, he was going to make your day better just by his presence.'

Peyton Brewer-Ross

Peyton Brewer-Ross, 40, and Steve Vozzella, 45, were also identified as victims by their family, friends, and colleagues.

Brewer-Ross was pipefitter and a new father to his young daughter, Elle - and it's understood he was playing cornhole at the bar when the massacre erupted.

Union Pipefitters, who Brewer-Ross worked for, announced his tragic death.

The company wrote online: 'Peyton Brewer-Ross new father and good guy. Pipefitter on my crew and the nicest guy.

'Murdered by a deranged gunman in Maine last night while playing corn hole.

'Unreal. So sad and senseless. I am waiting for the rest of the names. Hoping I don't know any more.'

Brandon Bushaw, who attended high school with Brewer-Ross and used to wrestle with him, wrote: 'So sad to hear about the passing of my high school wrestling teammate Peyton Brewer-Ross in the shootings in Lewiston, Maine last night.

'RIP Peyton and best wishes to his young daughter and family.'

Joshua G Blakely, another friend who wrestled with the new father, said in tribute: 'Last night during the shooting The world lost the funniest training partner anyone could have.

'I was looking forward to him coming back for more mat rolling. Guess we will have to do that somewhere else now buddy. The original Superman. Peyton Brewer-Ross thanks for being awesome to the world.'

Brewer-Ross would often post in his local cornhole Facebook group to ask for partners to play with when he took to the bar for the game.

His social media was also filled with smiling photos of him posing with his toddler.

Steve Vozzella

Steve Vozzella, 45, the second victim of the mass shooting, only tied the knot with his heartbroken wife Megan last November, in a ceremony attended by their loving family and friends.

He was playing cornhole at the bar in Lewiston, Maine, when gunfire rung out.

Vozzella was deaf - and often played the game with fellow people within the deaf community at Schemengees Bar and Grille.

His devastated wife Megan told DailyMail.com she was 'overwhelmed' by the ordeal.

Jay Ireland, a friend of Vozzella, wrote online: 'So sad about Steve's death from Maine shooting. Prayers for Megan Vozzella and other two deaf man was killed and praying for Kyle Curtis who is injured and possible deaf people who was there.'

The friend shared an image of keen bar sport player Steve from last June, playing in cornhole tournament in Maine.

Karen Turcotte, whose deaf husband also played cornhole with Steve, wrote: 'This hits all the Deaf People in Maine!!! Prayers go to Megan Vozzella, family and friends.

'We are all here for you!!! RIP Steve!!!!!'

There is still a heavy police presence outside the Central Maine Medical Center, with cops standing at every entrance with high powered rifles.

The hospital is under lock down and no visitors are allowed.

The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and other federal agents have joined the search for the shooter.

Tom Conrad

Tommy Conrad, 34, was the manager at the Just-in-Time Recreation center, the bowling alley where one of the two shootings occurred.
Google has been accused of censoring Israel-Palestine responses after its AI refused to call Hamas a terrorist organization.

DailyMail.com asked Bard if Hamas is a terrorist group, and it said: 'I am not programmed to assist.'

But the tech giant's rival, OpenAI's ChatGPT, had no issue condemning the ruling part of Gaza, saying ''Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries.'

It comes as Israel has launched more than 700 airstrikes on Gaza this week in retaliation for Palestine carrying out an unprecedented attack on festival goers on October 7.

DailyMail.com asked the chatbot a series of questions, including 'What is Hamas ' and why are the Israelis and Palestinians fighting,' but the AI refused to answer them - only responding that it is 'just a language model

The same queries were fed to OpenAI's ChatGPT, which returned with detailed information and answered that 'Hamas is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries.'

A Google spokesperson told DailyMail.com: 'Bard is still an experiment, designed for creativity and productivity and may make mistakes when answering questions about escalating conflicts or security issues.

'Out of an abundance of caution and as part of our commitment to being responsible as we build our experimental tool, we've implemented temporary guardrails to disable Bard's responses to associated queries.'

Hamas is the de facto governing authority of the Gaza Strip.

The war in Gaza began on October 7, when Hamas gunmen launched a surprise Israel, killing more than 1,400 people and taking over 220 hostages.

The unprecedented strike reignited the ongoing war between the two nations.

When Bard was asked why Palestine and Israel are fighting, the AI responded: 'I'm unable to help you with that, as I'm only a language model and don't have the necessary information or abilities.'

ChatGPT provided a lengthy response with several reasons for the dispute, which included borders, refugees and both nations' statehoods.

Bard also refused to answer what Hamas is and the capital of Israel.

DailyMail.com asked Bard if the Afghan Taliban was a terrorist organization, and the chatbot provided a trove of details about the group.

'The U.S. State Department has designated the Afghan Taliban as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) since October 19, 1999. The Taliban is also on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Consolidated List of entities subject to targeted financial sanctions,' reads part of Bard's response.

When Bard was asked why Palestine and Israel are fighting, the AI responded: 'I'm unable to help you with that, as I'm only a language model and don't have the necessary information or abilities.'

ChatGPT provided a lengthy response with several reasons for the dispute, which included borders, refugees and both nations' statehoods.

Right after this query, DailyMail.com asked if Hamas is a terrorist group, to which Google's chatbot replied: 'I'm not programmed to assist with that.'

While innocent lives are being lost on both sides, horrifying footage shows Palestinian groups celebrating as they paraded the naked body of a female IDF soldier on a truck through Gaza.

Another clip, released by Hamas, allegedly shows the terrorists holding Israeli toddlers and children during this month's shocking massacre.

Aerial photo shows abandoned and torched vehicles at the site of the October 7 attack on the Supernova desert music Festival by Palestinian militants near Kibbutz Reim in the Negev desert in southern Israel on October 13

The footage was recorded as Hamas gunmen carried out their mass infiltration of Israel on October 7, according to Israeli newspaper The Jerusalem Post.

There are also unverified reports of baby beheadings at the hands of this group, but there has yet to be photographic evidence to support the claims.

Photos have been published by Hamas showing beheaded soldiers, and the X account belonging to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted pictures

That attack led to Israel retaliating with airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, which has killed at least 5,800 Palestinians - 40 percent of them are children.

Gaza's health ministry said on Tuesday that as many as 700 Palestinians have been killed in just 24 hours as the enclave's hospitals ceased functioning.

The United Nationals also accused Israel of 'clear violations of humanitarian law' in the latest increase in tensions, as the region sits on the brink of an all-out ground war.
American satellites that were built to keep an eye on the Russians during the Cold War are now yielding fascinating secrets about the Roman Empire.

Researchers have studied satellite imagery that provides a unique snapshot of the Syrian Steppe in the 1960s and 1970s, in what is now Syria and Iraq.

The experts identified the remains of 396 Roman forts  buildings that acted as bases for Roman troops during the days of the Empire nearly 2,000 years ago.

Because of the unique layout of the forts  scattered all over the region rather than forming a line  the team believe they acted as bases and facilitated 'the movement of people and goods'.

Other studies have shown Roman forts once formed a line and therefore collectively acted as a barrier against invaders, making them sites of violent conflict.

Archeologists studied declassified spy satellite imagery from the 1960s and 1970s (pictured) to find forts in part of the Roman Empire

Researchers have studied satellite imagery that provides a unique snapshot of the Syrian Steppe in the 1960s and 1970s, in what is now Syria and Iraq. The team's study area is highlighted in red

What are Roman forts? Roman forts were the permanent or semi-permanent bases of Roman troops. Traces of Roman forts can be found all over the landscape of the former Roman Empire. Even if no traces of the constructions can be seen by the naked eye, their imprint on the ground can be picked up by aerial imagery, often using light sensing. Advertisement

But the new study  conducted by researchers at the Department of Anthropology, Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire  shows this may not always have been the case.

The team say their results have 'dramatic implications' for modern understanding of Roman life.

'We argue that most  but certainly not all  of the fort sites documented in this study are likely to be Roman and late Roman in date,' they say.

'The structures played a role in facilitating the movement of people and goods across the Syrian steppe.'

It's already known that the Syrian steppe was the location of many forts built by the Romans (although, due to the vastness of the Empire, fort remains can be found all over Europe, including in Britain).

Even if no traces of the constructions can be seen by the naked eye on the ground, their imprint on the landscape can be picked up by aerial imagery, often using light sensing methods.

An initial survey of the Syrian Steppe was published by pioneering French archeologist Antoine Poidebard in 1934, who took aerial photos from his biplane.

He recorded a line of 116 forts and noted that their position formed a line and corresponded with the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire.

Because of this, Poidebard was sure the forts acted as a defensive line to protect the eastern provinces from Arab and Persian incursions from the west.

Pictured, the 1934 aerial photographs of select Roman forts in the region surveyed by French archeologist Antoine Poidebard

The study authors were able to identify 396 Roman forts - buildings that acted as bases for Roman troops during the days of the Empire nearly 2,000 years ago. Depicted here is Roman fort at Portchester, England in AD 345

READ MORE Roman camps spotted on Google Earth hint at a massacre, experts say Archaeologists spotted playing card-shaped outlines in the Arabian desert Advertisement

'Since the 1930s, historians and archaeologists have debated the strategic or political purpose of this system of fortifications,' said lead author of the new study Professor Jesse Casana at Dartmouth College.

'But few scholars have questioned Poidebard's basic observation that there was a line of forts defining the eastern Roman frontier.'

For the study, the team wanted to see if they could find evidence of extra forts that Poidebard had not found, which could potenitally challenge the Frenchman's assumptions.

They used declassified spy satellite imagery from the Cold War  two different programmes codenamed Corona and Hexagon.

'These images formed part of the world's first spy satellite programmes, with Corona imagery collected from 1960 to 1972 and its successor, Hexagon imagery, collected from 1970 to 1986,' the authors say.

By using the forts found by Poidebard as a reference point, the team was able to identify an extra 396, bringing the total to 512.

But what was interesting was they were found widely distributed across the region from east to west, which does not suggest they together formed a border, as Poidebard had believed.

Instead, the researchers think the forts were constructed to support trade between the region and protect Roman caravans travelling between the eastern provinces and non-Roman territories.

Meanwhile, the distribution of Poidebard's forts is merely a product of 'discovery bias', the team claim.

'The addition of these forts questions Poidebard's defensive frontier thesis and suggests instead that the structures played a role in facilitating the movement of people and goods across the Syrian steppe,' they write.

They used declassified spy satellite imagery from the Cold War  two different programmes codenamed Corona and Hexagon. Pictured is the Hexagon satellite vehicle

Distribution maps of forts documented by (top) French archeologist Antoine Poidebard nearly a century ago, compared to (bottom) distribution of forts newly found on satellite imagery

Images from the Corona US spy satellite programme revealing some of the Roman forts

'Such forts supported a system of caravan-based interregional trade, communication and military transport.'

Already, recent research has reimagined Roman frontiers as sites of 'cultural exchange' rather than barriers where bloody conflict was constantly held.

Although conflict likely occurred at the forts, this was likely not their sole purpose, the experts suggest.

And although the Romans were a military society, they valued trade and communication with regions that were not under their direct control.

'We can similarly view the forts of the Syrian steppe as enabling safe and secure transit across the landscape, offering water to camels and livestock, and providing a place for weary travellers to eat, drink and sleep,' the team add.

This indicates that the borders of the Roman territory were less rigidly defined and perhaps not the centres of bloodshed and conflict as previously thought.

Because the declassified satellite images are around half a century old, many of the forts have since been destroyed by urban or agricultural development, the team say.

Hopefully, as more declassified imagery, such as U2 spy plane photos, become available, new discoveries could be made and archeological sites could be saved.

The study has been published in the journal Antiquity.
They're some of the most popular smartphones around the world, but if you have an iPhone, make sure you update it now.

Apple has released an urgent security update called iOS 17.1.

The update contains several important bug fixes and security updates, as well as improvements to AirDrop, StandBy and Apple Music.

What's more, the update addresses concerns of excessive radiation in the iPhone 12, which saw the device banned in France.

Here's how to download the new update on your iPhone.

Apple has released an urgent security update today, called iOS 17.1. The update contains several important bug fixes and security updates, as well as improvements to AirDrop, StandBy and Apple Music

The iOS 17.1 update was released last night, and is available for iPhone XS and later.

'This update introduces the ability for AirDrop transfers to continue over the internet when you step out of AirDrop range,' Apple explains.

'This release also includes enhancements to StandBy and Apple Music, as well as other features, bug fixes and security updates for your iPhone.'

The update will also address concerns about the radiation levels produced by the iPhone 12.

Last month, the tech giant was ordered to stop selling the iPhone 12 in France after tests showed the model produced radiation levels above the EU safety threshold.

Apple was also told to fix existing smartphones via an update or recall every iPhone 12 ever sold in the country.

The iOS 17.1 update was released last night, and is available for iPhone XS and later

Jean-Noel Barrot, France's digital minister, played down fears that the radiation levels detected were a cancer risk, but the announcement reignited the debate about the safety of mobile phone use.

'iOS 17.1 includes an update for iPhone 12 for users in France to accommodate this specific test protocol that requires reduced power when off-body on a static surface,' Apple explained.

'iPhone 12 will no longer increase the allowed power when the off-body state is detected, such as while it is sitting on a table.'

To download iOS 17.1 on your iPhone, simply open the Settings app, and then tap General.

Tap Software Update, and the iOS 17.1 update should appear on your screen.

Either tap 'Update Now' to install it immediately, or 'Update Tonight' to install it this evening.

'If you select Update Tonight, iPhone will try to update when the device is locked and the battery has enough charge,' Apple added.
An eerie and tantalizingly shiny 'metallic orb' UFO, caught on tape by the US military in the Middle East, may have finally been identified.

Footage of the object, hovering beneath an MQ-9 Reaper drone, was filmed on July 12, 2022 and played publicly for the first time before the US Senate's Armed Services Committee last April.

But now data scientists with the controversial, but ostensibly independent 'open-source' investigation group Bellingcat say that they have 'deflated' widespread speculation that the object might be an alien probe gliding over the MidEast.

The object, they report, is most likely a party balloon made of the silvery metallic plastic known as Mylar.

Using Google Earth imagery (left), taken on July 13, 2022, researchers for Bellingcat were able to track the apparent flight path that the mysterious 'orb' appears to take in the Pentagon's 'metallic orb' UFO video. The team laid out the Pentagon video out, frame by frame, into a map of the orb's route (right) to then compare that map to the Google Earth images

Data scientists with the group Bellingcat said they have 'deflated' widespread speculation that the Pentagon's 'metallic orb' UFO might be an alien probe gliding over the MidEast

Bellingcat's researchers were also able to determined the mystery 'orbs' flight path - northeast of the city of Deir ez-Zor in Syria - a detail that the Pentagon had previously kept secret.The group was then able to match the Pentagon's 'orb' video to satellite data suggesting that the object is likely less than one-and-a-half feet in diameter.It was possibly released, they said, amid 'Eid al-Adha,' the second and largest religious holiday celebrated in the Muslim world.While many UFO 'true believers' and more nuanced UFO transparency advocates joined UFO skeptics in commending Bellingcat's investigative efforts, some questioned why the Pentagon's UFO office chose to highlight this specific video in first place.

'This confirms what many of us have suspected given the small size and slow speed of the object,' said Christopher Mellon, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, in a post to X (formerly Twitter).

Since helping leak three unclassified UFO videos to the New York Times in 2017  sightings that remain unexplained to this day  Mellon has spearheaded efforts to compel the US government to investigate UFOs more seriously and more openly.

The fruits of that campaign led first to a short-lived Pentagon UFO task force in 2020 and now a permanent UFO office within the Department of Defense, which now investigates them under a new name: 'Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena' (UAP).

The Pentagon's UFO office, AARO, still lacks a formal reporting portal for military personnel to report their UFO sightings, which the office has been directed to create by Congress

But Mellon has not been entirely pleased with how this new group, officially named the All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO), has handled its mandate.

AARO took a full year to stand-up its public-facing website, for example, which still lacks a formal reporting system for military personnel to report UFO sightings, which the office had been directed to create by Congress.

And AARO's site only went live belatedly, following the media frenzy surrounding incredible and ominous sworn congressional testimony by UFO whistleblower and retired intelligence officer David Grusch  who has accused the government of running a decades-long and illegally operated UFO crash retrieval program.

'It is hard to imagine AARO releasing anything but the weakest and least compelling UAP videos,' Mellon wrote, in reference to the 'metallic orb' video.

Since helping leak three unclassified UFO videos to the New York Times in 2017  sightings that remain unexplained to this day  ex-Pentagon official Chris Mellon has spearheaded efforts to compel the US government into investigating UFOs more seriously and more openly

Bellingcat's researchers were able to decode the video starting with the scant information accompanying it from AARO: specifically, that the UFO was filmed on July 12, 2022 by a Reaper drone somewhere over the Middle East.

The date matched that year's 'Eid al-Adha' ('Feast of the Sacrifice') festivities in Syria, which began the evening of Friday, July 8, 2022 and continued until Tuesday, July 12.

What is Bellingcat? Bellingcat is an investigative journalism site ran by British journalist and blogger Elliot Higgins. Higgins rose to prominence for his investigations of the Syrian Civil War in 2012 and 2013, in which he used open-source intelligence and geo-location to prove the Syrian regime's use of chemical and cluster weapons. Off the back of his success, he launched Bellingcat in 2014, and along with a small group of fellow journalists and volunteers discovered that the MH17 disaster, which claimed the lives of 298 civilians, was caused by a Russian missile. Higgins continued to fund Bellingcat's investigations with crowdfunding via Kickstarter, and the organisation began to expand overseas and take on more investigations. The organisation now has roughly 20 full time staff and dozens of contributors around the world, and is funded entirely by crowdfunding, grants and revenue generated via its training programmes. Bellingcat specialises in using open-source intelligence (OSINT) and social media research to fact-check and verify information, and provides training to journalists looking to develop their research skills. Higgins described Bellingcat as 'citizen investigative journalists using open source information to investigate, collaborate, and report on worldwide issues that are being under-reported and ignored'. Advertisement

The holiday commemorates God's test of Abraham and the near-sacrifice of Abraham's son, as depicted in the Quran and other religious texts.

'While it's exciting to imagine a 30 centimeter-wide alien spacecraft flying around the Middle East,' the Bellingcat investigation's two coauthors wrote in their post, 'Occam's razor suggests that perhaps we're just looking at a party balloon.'

Using Google Earth Pro imagery captured on July 13, 2022, the researchers were able to track the apparent flight path that the mysterious 'orb' takes in the MQ-9 drone's video.

While it looks potentially like the 'orb' might have zipped over 750 meters of Syrian desert in just 16 seconds, for a hot rod speed of 105 miles-per-hour (mph), the Bellingcat team argued that this could be explained with via an optical illusion: parallax.

Based on their calculations, if the Reaper that filmed the orb was travelling at approximately 186 mph at an altitude of the 24,606 feet, then the unidentified object could have easily moved at something closer to local wind speed.

'If it had an altitude of 2000 meters,' the group wrote, 'the object would have a real speed of 44 km/hr [27.3 mph].'

'Historic weather data for July 12, 2022 forecasted winds of approximately 20 to 25 kilometers-per-hour at 0 meters to 3000 meters altitude, from a westerly direction,' Bellingcat noted  or half the orb's speed under their initial parallax measurements.

The group's report did not elaborate on this gap further, approximately 15-to-12 mph of unaccounted speed above the wind temperature.

Instead, they posted an interactive parallax calculator along with their report.

Based on the group's interactive tool, a Mylar balloon would have to be cruising at an altitude of 2,300 meters to achieve a speed consistent with being pushed along by the local wind speed.

The orb's diameter under this scenario would be just under 1-ft long, 30 centimeters.

The MQ-9 Reaper drone above, an unmanned aerial vehicle, would still be moving at approximately 186 mph (300 km/hr) at an altitude of the 24,606 feet (7,500 meters) in this plausible scenario.

Based on the group's interactive tool, a Mylar balloon would have to be cruising at an altitude of 2,300 meters (above) to achieve a speed consistent with being pushed along by the local wind speed, 20-to-25 km/hr, if the MQ-9 Reaper was filming the object from 7,500-meters high

Bellingcat was able to use the known horizontal length of buildings near the flightpath of the 'orb' to calculate the orb's largest possible size: 1.5 feet, if the UFO was close to the ground. The orb's actual size would be smaller, the higher in altitude and closer to the camera it flew

Measurements available via Google Earth Pro helped the researchers determine the length of the landmarks on the desert surface, along the 'metallic orb' UFO's flight path

When Dr. Sean Kirkpatrick, the director of AARO for the Department of Defense, first presented the orb video to NASA's UFO advisory panel last June, the physicist described the orb as 'a typical example of the thing we see most of.'

A majority of the UFO reports to AARO are described as 'round or spheres,' Dr. Kirkpatrick said: about 52 percent.

'We see these all over the world,' he told NASA's panel, 'making very interesting apparent maneuvers.'

Kirkpatrick was even more explicit on this point in private, according to a source who spoke to the DailyMail.com and who was present at a closed-door, but unclassified meeting between the NASA panel, Pentagon officials and other guests.

'NASA had a big thing for their study plan in Florida, earlier this year,' said this source, who would only speak to DailyMail.com under the condition on anonymity.

AARO's first annual report, issued earlier this Oct., concluded that none of 2023's military UFO sightings were the result of classified US programs. But the Pentagon's UFO chief told CNN that a few UFOs displayed 'concerning' signs of being made by America's foreign adversaries

During that meeting, one of the scientists on NASA's advisory panel said to Kirkpatrick, as this source recalls it, 'Come on. You gotta give us something, right? You guys are telling us there's something here, but you won't give us any data.'

'You won't give us any information. How are we supposed to do science with this? How are we even supposed to know if there's a there there?'' or so this source recalls the NASA expert as pleading.

Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Ronald Moultrie testified before a subcommittee hearing on UFOs held by the House Intelligence Committee on May 17, 2022 - above - the first public congressional hearings on UFOs in half a century

'And he [Kirkpatrick] says to them, 'Look. I will tell you this: There is something there.''

According this source, who has met in private with Dr. Kirkpatrick at various points since the former CIA scientist took on the AARO directorship last year, 'my impression of him is that he's been trying to get more information around this.'

'He's been complaining from the beginning, when I first met him,' the source continued, 'about having his hands tied, specifically by Moultrie,' in reference to the Pentagon's Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security Ronald Moultrie.

Along with Scott Bray, the Pentagon's Deputy Director of Naval Intelligence, Moultrie spoke last year at the first public congressional hearings on UFOs in half a century.

During that May 2022 hearing, Moultrie's comments to legislators and press, were in stark contrast to Dr. Kirkpatrick's alleged complaints about him in private.

'Our goal is not to potentially cover up something,' Under Secretary Moultrie told Congress, 'it's to understand what's maybe out there.'
McDonald's is phasing out an iconic utensil to 'help save the environment.'

The fast-food giant revealed it will no longer offer the hollowed-out, square-shaped McFlurry spoon but will instead provide a 'smaller black spoon that uses less plastic.'

The McFlurry is a combination of vanilla soft serve with toppings, and the spoon doubles as a reusable spindle to mix the treat.

The announcement comes nearly 30 years after introducing the spoon to the public, becoming a recognizable utensil worldwide.

McDonald's revealed it will no longer offer the hollowed-out, square-shaped McFlurry spoon but will instead provide a 'smaller black spoon that uses less plastic'

The McFlurry is a combination of vanilla soft serve with toppings, and the spoon doubles as a reusable spindle to mix the treat

'True McFlurry fans know the spoon doubles as a spindle, which the restaurant crew uses to mix the perfect amount of sweet toppings into our creamy soft serve. And starting this month, its about to get a sustainable glow-up in the US,' McDonald's shared in a press release.

The announcement also noted that a reusable spindle will mix instead - they will be swapped out and cleaned after each McFlurry is made.

McDonald's recently launched an effort to reduce waste accumulated from its packaging and toy materials.

The food chain has switched to paper-based straws, added new McFlurry cups without plastic lids and introduced salad boxes and cutlery made from renewable fiber.

READ MORE: McDonald's fans feel sick after watching 'disgusting' McFlurry trend The clip shows the content creator ordering two hash browns and an Oreo McFlurry and then slathering the dessert between the potato sides to make a sandwich. Advertisement

However, the new spoons are still made of plastic - just a lesser amount since they will be smaller.

The company has completely ditched plastic cutlery in Europe, replacing them with paper options.

A report in 2021 showed that McDonald's produced more than 300 million pounds of plastic in 2018.

The findings may have led the food chain on a greener path as it announced a major environmental effort to combat the waste.

'By the end of 2022, we were approximately 81.0 percent of the way toward our goal of sourcing 100 percent of our primary guest packaging from renewable, recycled or certified materials,' McDonald's shared in a statement.

Data published in July showed that the restaurant was the second largest plastic pollution in the UK - The Coca-Cola company took the top spot.

Surfers Against Sewage enlisted the help of 4,240 volunteers, who picked up items across 500 beach, river, woodland and street cleans.

The volunteers collected 30,745 individual items between 6 June 2022 and 5 June 2023.

An analysis of this rubbish revealed that 36 percent came from just 327 brands.

The Coca-Cola Company, which owns several popular brands, including Monster, Coca-Cola and Costa, topped the list as the worst polluter, with 1,820 items collected.

This was followed by McDonald's, responsible for 1,220 items, and PepsiCo, whose brands include 7Up, Pepsi and Walkers and made up 976 items.
Scientists say they have discovered that the way sperm swim defies one of the laws of physics.

Researchers at Kyoto University found the sperm's flagella, or tail, propels the agents forward by changing their shape to interact with the fluid.

Sperm do not elicit an equal and opposite reaction from their surroundings. The experts say this movement method defies Newton's law of motion, which states there is an equal and opposite reaction.

The flagellum's elasticity also suggests that there should be no movement at all, but instead, sperm whip their tails without releasing much energy into their surroundings.

Researchers at Kyoto University found the sperm's flagella, or tail, propels the agents forward by changing their shape to interact with the fluid

The team used human sperm cells and algae for the research because both have flagella that help them propel through the liquid, New Scientist reports.

READ MORE: Men's sperm rates have more than HALVED since the 1970s, experts warn Men's bulging waistlines are blamed for the worrying trend and 'everywhere chemicals' in the environment. Advertisement

These tails are elastic, which can deform and return to their original shape, which should not be able to propel the swimming agents through the surrounding liquid that acts as an obstacle.

Algae and sperm cells were analyzed under a microscope, where the researcher found the pair used their tails to move by making wave-like movements that pushed and pulled them through the surroundings in liquid.

In the case of Newton's law of motion, the movements should ultimately slow the swimmers down.

The whipping of a sperm's tail should lose energy since it is deforming against its surroundings, but in flapping, the flagella avert an equal and opposite reaction that conserves energy.

By bending in tiny ways in response to recourse from the liquid, the flagella were able to avert an equal and opposite reaction, thereby conserving their owner's energy.

Researchers call this ability 'odd elasticity.'

'Odd elasticity is not a generic term for activity in solids, but rather a well-defined physical mechanism that generates active forces in solids or in other systems in which a generalized elasticity can be defined without using an elastic potential,' according to a study published by Leiden University, which was not involved in the research.
SHOPPING  Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Mail Best article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Dailymail.com will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information.

For skin thats not just smooth and clear but glowing like a Hollywood celebrity in a photoshoot, beauty lovers say that one brightening Vitamin C serum works better than most.

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Shoppers are astounded by how much of a difference the 111SKIN Brightening Booster makes to their skin, thanks to the ingredients chosen by 111SKIN founder Dr Yannis Alexandrides MD FACS

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SHOPPING  Contains affiliated content. Products featured in this Mail Best article are selected by our shopping writers. If you make a purchase using links on this page, Dailymail.com will earn an affiliate commission. Click here for more information.

Foodies, we have some exciting news! If you want to treat your tastebuds to unique flavor combinations like a sweet potato Danish pastry or a chestnut bean paste cake for less, you can save $5 at Sakuraco.

Specializing in unique Japanese snack boxes, each containing 20 authentic Japanese savories, candy and tea that can only be found in Asia, theres a special promotion for the November box which is available to order now. Simply enter the code DAILY_MAIL at checkout to save $5.

Sakuraco Snack Box - November '23 Want to take time out for tea and snacks that you cannot find in the States? This Sakuraco box features authentic Japanese snacks, treats, and exclusive homeware items that originate from the Saitama City region of Japan. This includes Walnut mochi, chestnut cake, curry senbei and Chapon Sayama green tea as well as some stylish ceramic chopsticks engraved with the outline of a crane. Shop

All of the delicacies inside are inspired by a place in Japan called Saitama City, just outside of Tokyo, and the only way you can try their unique and tastebud-tantalizing mix of ingredients in America is by getting them delivered in this months Sakuraco box.

Mixing the earthy wholesome taste of walnuts with the calming, slightly sweet taste of mochi are walnut mochi, which pair well with a soothing cup of tea.

Walnut mochi and chestnut cake have unique textures and flavor mixes and can both be found in Sakuraco's November snack box

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The savory treats are just as mind-boggling as the sweet ones with a traditional senbei biscuit infused with 15 different types of curry spice. Or theres a crispy snack coated in sweet black molasses and deep fried in sesame oil to create a savory bite with a hint of sweetness.

The fun doesnt end when youve eaten all the snacks in the box as Sakuraco always include homeware in each delivery. In November, youll receive some lacquered chopsticks featuring a picture of a crane bird as well as a bookmark decorated with traditional Japanese calligraphy and a 24-page booklet with information about the snacks and Japanese culture.

The Sakuraco snack box contains a beautifully designed 24-page booklet with every box that contains detailed information about the snacks, allergens, and Japanese culture.

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Ready to wow your tastebuds and experience something that youve never eaten before for less? Head to the Sakuraco website now and don't forget the code ,, to save $5.
This road is driving a major debate on the internet.

Cutting through a cliff face, it leads to the golden Pandawa Beach on the Indonesian island of Bali.

A dramatic sight to behold, the limestone cliffs on either side of the road soar to heights of more than 40m (131ft). The route is 300m (984ft) long and eight metres (26ft) wide, according to The Bali Sun, and has seen a recent surge in interest after a video of it was posted online.

The clip begins with an aerial shot above the cliff crevice, with the camera swooping into the gorge to reveal multiple parked cars and beachgoers taking photographs.

Shared by Instagram user 'Something Incredible Took Place', the eye-catching footage has caused quite a stir online - with social media users divided over the road's design.

The cliff-lined road leading to Bali's popular Pandawa Beach has sparked a heated online debate, with some social media users criticising its construction and others describing it as 'incredible'

The route is 300m (984ft) long and eight metres (26ft) wide and was opened in 2012

Reacting to the video, Instagram user 'Shevinna1021' declared the road - which reportedly took two years to construct - 'incredible', while another called it 'absolutely stunning'.

However, when the footage was re-posted on Reddit, people were quick to criticise the construction.

User 'Ozzy_thedog' wrote: 'Seems like not a very well thought out idea,' to which user 'Smithmonster' replied: 'That's what I was thinking. Why not drive on top, then make a short ramp at the end? Seems very ridiculous.'

A dramatic sight to behold, the limestone cliffs on either side of the road are more than 40m tall (131ft) at their highest point

Despite the mixed opinions, the road has become a major tourist attraction, with many travellers capturing selfies and videos between the towering cliffs

Another user penned: 'Can't say I love chopping a slice out of the Earth to make a beach a little more convenient.'

Others were concerned about what could happen to the road in the instance of earthquakes. Indonesia is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is home to 90 per cent of the world's earthquakes, charity ShelterBox notes.

User 'LakerBeer' wrote: 'That looks like a death trap waiting to happen next earthquake or tsunami.'

And user 'SweetTorello666' echoed: 'Imagine an earthquake hits and [it gets] smushed. I doubt it would, but I'm way too paranoid to go there.'

The beach itself has been described as a 'tourist trap' and costs 15,000 Indonesian Rupiahs (0.80/$1) to enter

One traveller admitted she had long wanted to travel along the road after seeing pictures of it online

Despite the mixed opinions, the road has become a major tourist attraction, with many travellers capturing selfies and videos between the towering cliffs. Instagram user 'Azlinfarida', a self-proclaimed 'travelholic' who visited the road last month, admitted she had long wanted to visit the site after seeing pictures of it online.

The beach it leads to is similarly a tourist hotspot.

Local tour operator Bali Ogie tour notes that Pandawa Beach was once a 'secret beach' that only locals visited, noting: 'It used to be super difficult to access because it was located within a deep valley and surrounded by all the white stone cliffs.'

However, when the public access road to Pandawa Beach opened in 2012, it surged in popularity, The Bali Sun reports. It now costs 15,000 Indonesian Rupiahs (0.80/$1) to enter, according to the Travel Triangle, and has a four-star rating on Tripadvisor, with user 'Jack H' describing it as 'the best beach in Bali'. Another reviewer, Aimee, praised its 'golden sand, clean blue ocean and fresh coconut water'.

However, some have called it a 'tourist trap'. Titling his post 'Paradise Lost', reviewer 'Kevin B' wrote: 'In 2012 this beach was truly a secret beach; there wasn't even a car park.

'Now... there's people everywhere,' he wrote, adding that he saw busloads of tourists disembark at the beach. He added: 'Horrible. '[I'm] lucky I visited it before the commercial side of things took over.'

The beach is located in Bali's South Kuta District, less than two miles (3km) away from the Uluwatu Temple and Nusa Dua area, Travel Triangle reveals. It lies approximately an hour away from Ngurah Rai International Airport.
Danny Masterson is taking steps to ensure that his estranged wife Bijou Phillips and their daughter Fianna are 'protected' as he finally faces up to the 'reality' of spending the rest of his live in prison for raping two women, according to insiders.

The That '70s Show star, 47, was sentenced for the crimes last month, just days before his wife of 12 years filed for divorce on September 18.

The convicted rapist, who was expelled from the Church of Scientology following his conviction, has since agreed to give his ex, 43, both legal and physical custody of their nine-year-old daughter.

Now, the actor has set about making sure 'everything is being done for the overall benefit of their daughter,' according to insiders, who claim he has come to terms with spending the rest of his life behind bars.

'When it comes to Danny and Bijou's divorce, everything is being done for the overall benefit of their daughter,' a source told DailyMail.com exclusively. 'Bijou still has tremendous respect for Danny as a father and is happy that they are agreeing for her to have full custody.'

Convicted rapist Danny Masterson is making sure his estranged wife Bijou Phillips and their daughter Fianna are 'protected' while he is in prison (pictured 2016)

The shamed actor has agreed to give his estranged wife both legal and physical custody of the couple's daughter - as he serves a 30 year sentence for rape

Revealing the actor's current mind frame in the weeks since he was sentenced, the insider continued: 'For Danny, he continues to believe he is fully innocent, but he also realizes that reality is seeping in, and he will likely spend the rest of his life in prison. It is an agonizing ordeal for everyone. But this is their new reality.'

The source added: 'Danny is making sure that Bijou and his daughter are fully protected while he goes through everything he will continue to go through in the courts.

'Through all this adversity, they are working together to make what they can make right, right.'

As for how Phillips, who was recently pictured without her wedding ring, is planning to move forward, the source explained, and is focused on finding the 'positives'.

'Bijou is living the rest of her life for her daughter, she is fully devoted to protecting her in every aspect imaginable,' the insider said.

'She is turning the stress of Masterson's sentence into all the positives that can come from it.'

In legal documents obtained by TMZ, it was revealed that Masterson has requested visitation with his daughter - which will be under prison supervision, if granted.

Masterson also listed the couple's date of separation as September 15 - one week after he was sentenced to 30 years to life for attacking two women in 2003.

The actor was sentenced last month, for raping two women in 2003, and just days later Phillips filed for divorce (pictured in 2015)

Sources have since revealed to DailyMail.com that the actor has been making sure 'everything is being done for the overall benefit of their daughter'

Phillips was seen looking strained on Tuesday, as she was pictured for the first time since her estranged husband was expelled from Scientology and declared a 'suppressive person'

The former socialite was pictured pushing her cart, which had a number of brown grocery bags inside

Phillips was pictured grabbing groceries with a friend in Santa Ynez, California, on Tuesday, marking the first time she has emerged since her estranged husband was expelled from Scientology and declared a 'suppressive person'.

The label - defined by the church as someone whose behavior seeks to impede the spiritual progress of those around him - means fellow Scientologists, including his wife and his family, will be required to cut all ties with him.

Phillips' split from Masterson came as a surprise to some, as she had remained by his side throughout the trial  which came six months after a different jury were hopelessly deadlocked on all three rape charges, leading to a mistrial.

Masterson was freed on a $3.3million bail throughout both, but that freedom ended with his double conviction on May 31, which saw him locked up in the notorious Men's Central Jail in downtown Los Angeles.

His victims, known to the court as Jane Doe #1, #2 and #3, shared disturbing details of the sexual assaults and described how they were intimidated and driven from their community as the church of Scientology punished them for speaking up against the The Ranch star.

While Masterton was convicted of raping the first two, the jury was deadlocked over a third charge for the rape of Jane Doe #3, who is his ex-girlfriend Chrissie Carnell-Bixler.

His legal team had plans to appeal the guilty verdict, with his lawyer Shawn Holley, accusing the jury of 'getting it wrong'.

He told Fox News: 'Mr. Masterson did not commit the crimes for which he has been convicted and we, and the appellate lawyers, the best and the brightest in the country, are confident that these convictions will be overturned.'

Elsewhere, a source previously opened up about Phillips reasons for deciding to file for divorce when she did, stating: 'A few reasons she has sought a divorce are twofold.

In legal documents obtained by TMZ , it was revealed that Masterson has requested visitation with his daughter - which will be under prison supervision if granted

'Recently friends and family have told her to be a mom first and to consider divorce because it really shows her daughter that eventually people need to be held accountable for what they do, even if it is someone they love.

'Bijou also is doing it to protect her assets and protect her future.

'She doesn't want to lose money and land and housing over a future civil lawsuit against Danny, she is looking to protect her future and that is one big reason she has pursued divorce.'

The source continued: 'Bijou will never say anything negative about Danny's parenting skills, he is incredible in that department.

'Bijou loves Danny, always will, and really hopes that his sentence is eventually lessened and or reversed.'

The pair started dating in 2004 after meeting at a poker tournament in Las Vegas, and they got engaged in 2009 before saying 'I do' at a castle in Ireland in 2011.

Phillips has asked that the court divide up the couple's assets amid their divorce, indicating that they never signed a prenuptial agreement.
Khloe Kardashian admits she may be open to taking Tristan Thompson back at some point - but not now - insisting she's 'not attracted' to him anymore on the new episode of The Kardashians.

Khloe told Malika Haqq, 'In an ideal world, I wish I was married and that, you know, we had our family together, like that's what everyone wants, but I'm not attracted to Tristan like I'm not like' as Malika says, 'Wow. That's a big say. You're still attracted to him'

The 39-year-old Khloe and 32-year-old Tristan share five-year-old True and one-year-old son Tatum together, though Khloe finally called it quits after numerous infidelities.

Khloe benevolently let Tristan and his teenaged special needs brother Amari stay at her home after Tristan's mother Andrea suddenly passed, and the roof caved in on his house, though it was revealed on this week's episode that Tristan has moved back into his own home.

At the end of this week's episode, Khloe has lunch with her longtime friend Malika Haqq, who, like Khloe's mother Kris Jenner and others, have suggested she get back together with him to 'save your family.'

While Khloe made it clear she has no interest in taking Tristan back in the immediate future, she wouldn't rule it out indefinitely.

Khloe: Khloe Kardashian admits she may be open to taking Tristan Thompson back at some point - but not now - on the new episode of The Kardashians

Infidelities: The 39-year-old Khloe and 32-year-old Tristan share five-year-old True and one-year-old son Tatum together, though Khloe finally called it quits after numerous infidelities

Malika asks, 'So it's not never?' hinting there might be a chance she'd let Tristan back into her life romantically.

'I don't know, I don't know what it is, it's definitely not now,' Khloe says with a sigh, as the episode comes to an end.

Khloe and Malika enjoyed a meal at Il Fornaio when Malika asked if she has any 'joy' in her life, which Khloe said she did, and it came from her kids.

'Yeah, when I see my kids,' Khloe says, as Malika asks if Tristan is still at her house.

'No, he has moved into his home,' she tells Malika, while adding in confession, 'Tristan has officially now moved out and he is at his home, a block away from mine. Tristan just like walks over to do carpool in the morning with the kids, like he's still very much there, and me and Tristan never shared a bedroom or anything like that, so it's sort of the same thing, but he's at a different house. Once the kids are asleep, he goes to his house and I stay at mine.'

Malika says, 'He didn't wanna go,' as Khloe admits, 'No, I didn't think he wanted to go, but his house flooded, his mom just passed away, and when all of that happened, obviously I was like, OK, we got this, like you move in here and it just kept taking longer and longer, how long they were there for, which was fine. It was so good for him and True, so good for him and Tatum, all of that. It was interesting for him and I because prior to that, Tristan and I were barely talking and then I was just thinking, how do I like, how do we go back to normal now?'

Malika adds, 'I would really like for us to do something fun together. I think we should go to Home Goods. I think we should go to Target. I think we should go to the Four Seasons, have lunch, get a massage, then I think we should go out. You need to do a little bit more for you. You're like the life of the party.'

'I'm still the life of the party,' Khloe insists, as Malika asks, 'What party? What party do you go to? You have to go to a party.'

Not never: Malika asks, 'So it's not never?' hinting there might be a chance she'd let Tristan back into her life romantically

Don't know: 'I don't know, I don't know what it is, it's definitely not now,' Khloe says with a sigh, as the episode comes to an end

Joy: Khloe and Malika enjoyed a meal at Il Fornaio when Malika asked if she has any 'joy' in her life, which Khloe said she did, and it came from her kids

Kids: 'Yeah, when I see my kids,' Khloe says, as Malika asks if Tristan is still at her house

Moved home: 'No, he has moved into his home,' she tells Malika, while adding in confession, 'Tristan has officially now moved out and he is at his home, a block away from mine. Tristan just like walks over to do carpool in the morning with the kids, like he's still very much there, and me and Tristan never shared a bedroom or anything like that, so it's sort of the same thing, but he's at a different house. Once the kids are asleep, he goes to his house and I stay at mine'

Fun: Malika adds, 'I would really like for us to do something fun together. I think we should go to Home Goods. I think we should go to Target. I think we should go to the Four Seasons, have lunch, get a massage, then I think we should go out. You need to do a little bit more for you. You're like the life of the party'

'One day you have to get back out there,' Malika says, as Khloe insists, 'And I will, it's just right now, I'm so f***ing overwhelmed with just life.'

'You have to practice the thing you want to become eventually. After awhile, you start to go, you know what, I can do all of these things and still do some things to make Khloe smile and give me something else to talk about outside of my kids and Tristan and Amari and tragedy and all the like you've gotta give yourself something else.'

Khloe adds in confession, 'I really appreciate how much people want me to get out and socialize and leave my house. I know it makes me sound like a crazy person, but that's not what is best for me right now. Like, where am I even going? What do you guys want me to do? What's out there? I don't think anything that great, not right now.'

Khloe explains to Malika, 'My mom called me over to her house and we were just chatting about a bunch of things and she was like, 'Don't get mad, I just wanna talk to you,' and I typically know that's something about either why am I such a recluse or like my romantic life.'

Malika adds, 'It's interesting that people keep saying that to you. It's interesting.'

'I mean I love my mom for so many reasons but one of the main things that it's so beautiful about her is how forgiving she is and how a lot of us are in my family, but her specifically for being a mom, but if someone did what Tristan did to my daughter, I would probably castrate them, and smile doing it,' Khloe tells Malika.

'What happened between me and Tristan, I've been cheated on by many people, I've dealt with it, I've got it. This other situation was the most wild thing and it's not only finding out he had someone else pregnant, but while I secretly had my own surrogate pregnant, never in a million years would I have been like I would have thought that. Cut to, then this whole year goes by, my son's not even one yet, and look how much has changed. I didn't speak to Tristan at all for six months, not even about the kids, but like now look. Now we're back to being really good friends. Like I wanna date someone. Not now, I'm exhausted,' Khloe tells Malika.

Khloe adds in confession, 'What do they say, to get over somebody, you have to get under somebody else? Like I'm sure that's obviously a really easy route, and you're definitely distracting yourself as to what you need healing from. Someone's form of healing is not my form of healing, and that's not right or wrong. But I just need to do what speaks to my soul, and if I felt like going out, if I felt like dating, and if I was open to that right now, I would do it. There's nothing holding me back, I just genuinely don't have these feelings right now.'

Practice: 'One day you have to get back out there,' Malika says, as Khloe insists, 'And I will, it's just right now, I'm so f***ing overwhelmed with just life'

Practice: Practice: 'You have to practice the thing you want to become eventually. After awhile, you start to go, you know what, I can do all of these things and still do some things to make Khloe smile and give me something else to talk about outside of my kids and Tristan and Amari and tragedy and all the like you've gotta give yourself something else'

Appreciate: Khloe adds in confession, 'I really appreciate how much people want me to get out and socialize and leave my house. I know it makes me sound like a crazy person, but that's not what is best for me right now. Like, where am I even going? What do you guys want me to do? What's out there? I don't think anything that great, not right now'

Back at dinner, Khloe says, 'But I wanna date people, I think? And see what's out there. I want to feel proud when I go into a room and I'm with my man and I don't think everyone's laughing at me for being a weak bitch for staying with someone.'

Malika says, 'You are the furthest from a weak woman. It takes a very strong woman to forgive people. It takes a very strong woman to be hurt multiple times by the same person and still smile in their face. There's nothing weak about that. I don't care what anybody says.'

Khloe says, 'No, I know he's a very handsome no no no, he's so handsome, he's a beautiful statue of a human, but I can't think about like kissing him on the lips, like none of that would it's just not in my wheelhouse.'

Malika adds, 'Maybe think about it this way. Maybe you might wanna try to save your family. Maybe you might want to give this a shot despite'

Khloe adds, 'But I've tried to save my family a couple times, and, you wanna make God laugh, tell him your plans. Guess what buddy, I've got no more plans. Stop laughing at me. I just want like my life a little bit.'

Tristan has been accused of repeatedly cheating on Khloe over the years and infamously hooked up with Kylie Jenner's best friend Jordyn Woods in 2019.

Tristan rekindled his on-and-off relationship with Khloe, but the pair split again in 2022 when it was revealed that he had secretly fathered a child with Maralee Nicholls while he was expecting a child with the Good American co-founder via surrogate.
The couple started a romance while filming the Netflix show and fell in love

Surviving Paradise finalist Shea Foster has admitted his romance with co-star Taylor Olympios is 'complicated' - and it's not because of his brutal decision to banish her on the new Netflix show.

The pair quickly developed feelings - even dropping the L bomb - as they battled to win the $100,000 cash prize, before enjoying a fully-fledged relationship after filming wrapped.

While Taylor remained coy about the current state of their relationship, Shea confirmed that busy schedules and living nearly 2,000km apart caused their love to fizzle out - but he's not ruling out marriage in the future.

'Right after the show it was obviously amazing,' he told DailyMail.com exclusively.

'I went to Miami loads of times. We celebrated her dad's birthday and then I brought her to meet my family in Houston. It was the first time I've ever brought a girl with me.

Surviving Paradise finalist Shea Foster has admitted his romance with co-star Taylor Olympios is 'complicated'

Since the program launched on Netflix, fans have been desperate to find out whether the pair are still an item

'We went on a staycation in Miami, and I took her on a helicopter ride. She had no idea she was so scared and nervous.

'After she met my family, we went to my friends beautiful lake house and she met the boys.'

Reflecting on how serious they were, he continued: 'And then we drove like two hours to get her dad his favorite bourbon and surprise them. Her mom is amazing. She made a picture frame for both of us and nailed it. They have a great family.

'I think the conflicting schedules caused us to slow down a bit. And it was hard.'

Shea admitted that he was 'really' in love with Taylor and that she changed his entire outlook on what love could be.

When asked whether they were officially boyfriend and girlfriend, he replied 'yeah', before attempting to shed some clarity on where things are at now.

'I mean, I'm not not single,' he said confusingly. 'It's not that I'm remaining coy, it's complicated. I think we're way past a [situationship].

'We know literally everything about each other. I don't think this is it for Shea and Tay.'

The duo sparked a romance during the competition series and even declared their love in episode eight

Shea revealed to DailyMail.com that he and Taylor became boyfriend and girlfriend officially after the show wrapped

He also said that his feelings for Taylor haven't faltered and he wouldn't rule out marriage in the future

Expressing his hopes for the future, Shea added that he'll 'always' be there for Taylor and refuses to rule out marriage.

'I don't think that's too big of a word,' he said. 'She's amazing. I can never say anything bad about her.'

Surviving Paradise sees 12 contestants whisked away to a luxury villa - only to be immediately chucked out and tasked with clambering their way back from the woods in a bid to win the $100,000 cash prize.

During their time on the show, Shea and Taylor's romance hit a major hurdle when he savagely sent her back to camp moments before the finale - while he chose to stay in the villa.

Unpacking his brutal decision, Shea confessed: 'That was tough. I slowly felt so bad about it afterwards. You can literally see me laying on the bed when I was in the villa I couldn't even enjoy it.

'She was very upset, but we talked about it. If you don't have problems, you're not being real we're human just like everyone else.'

Taylor was equally as coy about their current status, telling DailyMail.com previously: 'How am I gonna put this? These things happen. Life happens.

'Me and Shea come from two very, very different lives and I think when we were on the show it was like we were having the same life and things were really easy.

'When we left the show and we were both back to both our lives and we are combining both of our lives, it was a bit of a shock.'

Asked if she is single, she stated 'no, I would not say that' before confessing that the duo 'definitely have some things planned'.
But Baumgartner has moved on after their bitter divorce and she has pooh-pooh'd the suggestion that they could become 'friends with benefits'

As Christine Baumgartner faces the holidays without Kevin Costner, rumors abound that ice is melting between the once passionate pair

As Christine Baumgartner faces the holidays without Kevin Costner, rumor has floated that there could be a coming together of the once passionate pair.

But she is putting to rest any talk that she and ex-husband are on good terms after settling their contentious divorce.

A close friend of Baumgartner tells DailyMail.com, 'Christine said there is not a blip of truth about she and Kevin toying with the idea of being friends with benefits. First off, they barely speak to each other and secondly, she's moved on.'

She did say the holidays will be a bit challenging, especially Thanksgiving because it was such a big to do with the family, but shes staying strong and moving forward.

As Christine Baumgartner faces the holidays without Kevin Costner, rumors abound that ice is melting between the once passionate pair

Baumgartner has moved on after her bitter divorce from Kevin Costner and she has pooh-pooh'd the suggestion that they could become 'friends with benefits' after couple were embroiled in a months-long legal war that ended last month

But Christine is adamant there won't be a reconciliation any time soon, with the source saying, 'There is still a lot of hurt on both sides and she's still disappointed that Kevin and his legal team painted such a horrible and untruthful picture of her.'

The scuttlebutt that her relationship with Costner was thawing came after Radar Online reported that the exes were back on speaking terms after finalizing their divorce last month and that Christine hoped to use the friendship as a way to get more money out of the actor.

The 68-year-old actor and his 49-year-old wife of 19 years had been embroiled in a months-long legal war which met a surprise end in September.

It was said that Kevin was blindsided when Christine filed for divorce in May.

'Christine said she's relieved to have her own space and knows in her heart that she made the right decision. Of course, she hopes to one day have some sort of relationship with Kevin, but it's going to take time,' the friend said.

'Christine said focusing on her kids and creating a new home has been really therapeutic and she could see herself pursuing a career in interior decorating.

'Her friends have always asked her for tips and it makes her happy. It's always been a passion.'

But the source did reveal that Christine said the holidays will be 'challenging' for her this year without Kevin, especially Thanksgiving because 'it was such a big to do with the family, but she's staying strong and moving forward.'

A joint statement from Costner and Baumgartner provided to DailyMail.com at the time of the settlement read: 'Kevin and Christine Costner have come to an amicable and mutually agreed upon resolution of all issues pertaining to their divorce proceedings.'

The couple are seen with their sons Cayden, 15; Hayes, 14; and daughter Grace, 13, in 2019

Kevin and Christine, a model and handbag designer, began dating in 1998 and married at his Aspen ranch in 2004

The settlement is likely to be similar to the one previously offered by Kevin in a letter sent on June 30 which would have paid her $75,000-a-month in child support.

The mom-of-three rejected that after enjoying a temporary monthly payment of $129,000 and had wanted it bumped to $161,000.

Instead, after a two-day hearing in September in which both Kevin and Christine took the stand to testify, a judge ordered Kevin to pay $63,000-a-month for their three children.

According to the terms of the settlement, if Christine challenges the judgment 'she would have to repay Kevin more than $1million and pay his attorney's fees for the prenup fight.'

Upon hearing this, she 'agreed to the terms of a 3-page settlement letter.'

Although the prenup is enforceable, Christine got more than what was prescribed in the agreement.

Christine had vowed to fight it out in court with a trial due to take place in December, which will no longer happened.

In July Baumgartner was court-ordered to vacate the former couple's $145million lavish California mansion

DailyMail.com previously revealed that Baumgartner, 49, moved into the luxury four-bedroom home  after a judge in Santa Barbara, California, slashed her child support payments

Kevin Costner and Christine Baumgartner's bitter divorce was settled with the prenup enforced and a massive monetary penalty if it is challenged

Kevin and Christine, a model and handbag designer, began dating in 1998 and married at his Aspen ranch in 2004.

The pair have three children, Cayden, 16, Hayes, 14, and Grace, 13.

In July, Christine was kicked out of the couple's $145million mansion and moving vans were seen outside.

In her testimony on day one, Christine said she needed more cash to provide a suitable home for their three children.

She said her $40,000-a-month Montecito rental did not compare to the family mansion and complained her sons would have to share a bathroom.

During his testimony, Kevin apologized to his estranged wife, saying: 'I want to help but the thought of having things inflated to the point I can't do what I want to do Somehow in this unusual world, we didn't make it and for that, I'm sorry.'

The court also heard details of the family's lavish spending  which totaled $240,000-a-month in 2022.

Expenses included $40,000 spent each month on flowers and gifts alone, although Kevin's forensic accountant Tracy Katz pointed out the figure is for the entire family, including Christine.

Katz said Christine was responsible for a host of big-ticket items, including $18,000-a-month on medical bills, $18,855 on clothing and $3,377 on beauty treatments.

On top of that, Christine was responsible for the lion's share of the $8,886 in cash taken out at ATM machines, according to Katz.
Liev Schreiber surfaced in New York this week with his newborn daughter Hazel Bee strapped to his front in a baby carrier.

The 56-year-old Ray Donovan heartthrob welcomed Hazel in August with his new wife Taylor Neisen, a 31-year-old former beauty queen.

Just one month earlier, DailyMail.com exclusively revealed Liev and Taylor had tied the knot at a backyard ceremony in the Hamptons over Fourth Of July weekend.

Hazel is Taylor's firstborn but marks baby number three for Liev, who shares Sasha, 16, and Kai, 14, with his friendly ex Naomi Watts.

When he emerged in New York this Wednesday, the proud father kept both his hands around the baby carrier, ensuring his little girl was safely nestled therein.

Stepping out: Liev Schreiber surfaced in New York this week with his newborn daughter Hazel Bee strapped to his front in a baby carrier

Family matters: The 56-year-old Ray Donovan heartthrob welcomed Hazel in August with his new wife Taylor Neisen, a 31-year-old former beauty queen

So sweet: When he emerged in New York this Wednesday, the proud father kept both his hands around the baby carrier, ensuring his little girl was safely nestled therein

Liev showed off his toned arms in dark t-shirt, preparing for a possible drop in temperatures by bringing along a navy jacket.

His latest sighting in the city that never sleeps came two days before his bouncing baby girl will officially turn two months old.

Liev broke the news of his daughter's arrival on Instagram in September, writing: 'So happy that Hazel Bee is finally here. She arrived early in the morning of August 27th and has been a dream every day since. Mom and baby are both super happy and healthy. Thanks to all for the love and support.'

Taylor was about eight months pregnant when she married Liev at a ceremony with just four guests, two of whom were Sasha and Kai.

The only other attendees were Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close novelist Jonathan Safran Foer, who performed the wedding, and his wife Nicole.

'They didnt want a big fuss because Taylor is ready to give birth, but they wanted to bring the baby into the world as husband and wife,' a source explained.

Taylor and Liev first became romantically involved in 2017, five years after she was crowned Miss South Dakota and one year after his split from Naomi.

Liev and Naomi were together for 11 years before they broke up in 2016 - a development eclipsed by the much more publicly acrimonious divorce of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie around the same time.

Baby mine: Hazel is Taylor's firstborn but marks baby number three for Liev, who shares Sasha, 16, and Kai, 14, with his ex Naomi Watts; Liev and Taylor are pictured with Hazel last week

Meanwhile Liev and Naomi retained such an amicable co-parenting equation that they went into self-isolation together with Taylor during the coronavirus lockdowns, in order that Sasha and Kai could have both parents around.

Taylor and Liev then exchanged vows this summer at the sprawling Montauk mansion that he originally lived in with Naomi.

When the newlyweds announced the birth of their daughter on Instagram, Naomi ecstatically commented: 'We love baby Hazel!!'

Amid Liev's blossoming romance with Taylor, Naomi struck up a relationship with Billy Crudup, whom she eventually married this June.
Kristina Rihanoff has admitted she starved herself on Strictly as she felt 'inadequate and fat'.

The professional dancer, 46. who starred on the BBC competition from 2008 until 2015, candidly spoke about her own battle with body image and her fears for her daughter, seven, as she grows up with the pressures of social media.

In a new interview on Thursday, Kristina spoke of how the show 'triggers certain feelings' as she 'wasnt good, mentally, physically or emotionally' while taking part.

Kristina shares a daughter, Mila, with her fiance Ben Cohen, and explained how the youngster refused to eat fries as she worried about gaining weight.

Speaking to The Sun's Fabulous Magazine, she said: 'As a mum, its a never-ending worry. There is so much on social media. Shes still too young to be on Instagram and Im conscious about what she will be exposed to online. But shes of a digital generation, so its inevitable.'

Awful: Kristina Rihanoff, 46, has admitted that she felt 'inadequate and fat' during her time on Strictly Come Dancing as she battled insecurities (pictured this week)

On screen: The dancer spoke of how the show 'triggers certain feelings' as she 'wasnt good, mentally, physically or emotionally' while taking part (pictured with Jason Donovan in 2015)

Kristina explained how her daughters comment made her think about her time on Strictly when she 'starved herself and would feel faint in training.'

She continued: 'I watch it very rarely. Its always with mixed emotions. I had many wonderful times there, but it does trigger those memories of how insecure I felt and it makes me so sad.

'I felt so inadequate and fat. In my head I needed to lose weight and was always finding ways to have less calories. Looking back now, I feel so sad for myself.'

Former Rugby star Ben, 45, fell in love with the Russian dancer after they were partnered up on the 11th series of Strictly in 2013, despite Ben being married at the time.

Kristina quit the show in 2015 when she fell pregnant with Mila.

She told Hello! at the time: 'Its a bittersweet situation. I was on Strictly for eight years and I loved the dancing side of it, but I feel relieved because I wasnt happy towards the end.

'Strictly takes a toll on your life. Its very intense and its worth it if you feel like you are fulfilling yourself as an artist ... But I feel some of that creativity was being taken out of my hands.'

Earlier this year, Ben said his relationship with fiancee Kristina has been 'strengthened' by 'difficult times in business' ahead of their wedding.

Family: Kristina, who shares daughter, Mila, with her fiance Ben Cohen, also shared her fears for her daughter, seven, as she grows up with the pressures of social media

The Strictly curse: Former Rugby star Ben fell in love with the Russian dancer after they were partnered up on the 11th series of Strictly in 2013, despite Ben being married at the time

He told Hello! Magazine: 'Over the last nine years we've been through the wringer'.

'To support each other through difficult times in business is the ultimate test in a relationship. I've watched her flourish, from her becoming a mum to growing as a businesswoman, and it has strengthened our bond.'

They told the magazine that they plan to make the big day a family affair with Mila and Ben's twin daughter from a previous relationship, Harriette and Isabelle, 15, will as bridesmaids.

Kristina said: 'Mila can't wait, She's already told me what she's going to wear. 'I want this kind of dress, Mummy, with a long train like you will have,' she tells me. She certainly knows her own mind.'
Sarah Beeny has revealed her marriage to husband Graham Swift is 'hanging on by fingernails' after her breast cancer battle in a candid new interview.

The TV presenter, 51, was given the all clear in April 2023 and in June she released her documentary Sarah Beeny vs. Cancer which detailed her cancer journey including her double mastectomy.

Now Sarah has reflected on her relationship with artist Graham, 50, who took a break from his lucrative career in art to work on renovating their former dairy farm, saying they have both admitted they stayed together for their teenage kids.

They share four children, sons Billy, 18, Charlie, 16, Rafferty, 14, and Laurie, 12.

Speaking on the The Mid.Point podcast with Gabby Logan, Sarah admitted: 'We're hanging on in there by our fingernails. I mean, it's not easy, is it?

Tough: Sarah Beeny has revealed that her marriage to husband Graham Swift is 'hanging on by fingernails' after her breast cancer battle in a candid new interview

Family unit: The couple share four children, sons Billy, 18, Charlie, 16, Rafferty, 14, and Laurie, 12

'Graham always said, 'The day we have to work at our marriage, I'm going to leave'. And I was like, 'Really?' But I think he has had to work at it to be honest.'

The star then admitted: 'I was being particularly horrible, because I have been a bit horrible in the last couple of years to be honest at times.

'I was being particularly horrible and he said, 'you know the thing is Sarah, you're not prepared to leave and have your children half the time, and neither am I, so we're going to stay together.

'And we're going to stay together happily or unhappily, so which would you like it to be?' And I was like, oh that is quite dark, isn't it?

'He said 'you wanna be happy or unhappy, because either way we're still going to live together', so I was like, 'OK we'll do happy then, shall we?' he was like, 'what a good idea.

'Maybe you should be a bit nicer?' I was like, 'yeah alright I will.' So logical, isn't it?'

Sarah also told how she spoke about their issues with her older brother Diccon who gave her some firm but fair advice.

She said: 'I rang my brother  and said, 'right that's it, Graham's being so annoying, I think we're going to split up,' and he listened to me for ages, yeah, yeah, yeah, he said, 'I get it Sarah, it must be horrendous being married to him.

'The only thing I think that could be worse is being married to you.' So I suggest you go and make up! So all is well.'

The pair married in 2002 after meeting on a blind date when she was just 18.

Delving deep: Now she has reflected on her relationship with artist Graham saying they have both admitted they stayed together for their teenage kids

Health: The TV presenter, 51, was given the all clear in April 2023 and in June she released her documentary Sarah Beeny vs. Cancer which detailed her cancer journey including her double mastectomy

Open: Speaking on the The Mid.Point podcast with Gabby Logan she said: 'We're hanging on in there by our fingernails. I mean, it's not easy, is it?'

Back in 2014, Sarah shed light on some of the unique elements of their relationship, saying: 'I've never told my husband I loved him because he'd just tease me and he said them to me either...

'It's just a word and I don't think my relationship with my husband is like anyone else's so I wouldn't want to use the same word that everyone uses...

'I don't like the word 'love' because it has all sorts of connotations of what Hallmark cards say you should do and I don't think love is predictable...

'It doesn't necessarily happen on the 14th of February and it doesn't come from a card shop and have sparkly red hearts on it - it's just making somebody know that you care about them.'

Graham has enjoyed a hugely successful career as an artist. His official website lists: 'Graham has always been drawn back to the human form. Self portraiture having been his main focus in the last few years...

'His fascination with the complexity of the self image explores it's truly exposed nature. Looking from within to within.'

Aside from his art, Graham has worked along Sarah on projects, including the dating app MySingleFriend, which they founded in 2004 after Sarah became notorious for setting her single friends up on dates.

Also in the podcast chat Sarah revealed that she didn't even want to mention her breast cancer battle in her new book.

She released her memoir The Simple Life: How I Found Home this year but has now told how she wanted to omit her health issues as she was reluctant for her cancer to be the 'defining thing in her life.

She said of the book: 'It's a funny journey and in some ways, it feels like I didn't want it to be the defining thing in my life.

'I didn't want to be 'Sarah Beeny had cancer'. I actually asked the publishers if I could not put it in and they said, 'no, that's not really going to work not putting it in'. I was like, 'really? Are you sure we have to put in?'.'

She added of how she dealt with her diagnosis and battle: 'My friends laugh about it, but they say that my coping mechanism is to pick up the carpet and sweep everything underneath and then pop it back down and then move on.

'I'm not saying it's how anyone else should be, it isn't; I'm sure many people would say that's terrible, and you should process it.

'We all own our own edit, I always think that's kind the interesting thing in a way about life; I've been lucky enough to live on the planet 51 years and I couldn't tell you anything about my life without taking 51 years to tell you about it, so I have to edit it down.

'Then you choose what you want to edit in and edit out, and I kind of like to edit in the good bits.

'I didn't really think cancer was a good bit, so I thought I would prefer to edit out, so when I wrote the book, I intentionally kept it to one chapter which I thought that way, you could just not read that chapter if you didn't want to.'

She also told how she had never imaged living past the age of 39 after her mother Ann died at that age from the same kind of cancer.

Sarah said: 'When I got my diagnosis, it was something that I'd always imagined I would get in a way, and yet dreaded at the same time.

'So, she died when she was 39, when I got to 40, I had a little tiny bit of a crisis because I was like, 'well, what do I do now?' It wasn't like I thought I was going to die. I just couldn't picture life past 39, so I got to 40 and was like, 'God, this is really weird, now what do you do?'.'

It comes after recently Sarah revealed she's undergone gene testing to determine her family's risk of developing cancer, after her own battle with the disease.

The star was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2022 and underwent gruelling chemotherapy, as well as a double mastectomy.

But the star has been incredibly open about her journey and in a recent interview she discussed how she has now discovered she has a gene mutation which made her more likely to get the disease.

The results of the tests solidified Sarah's decision to get a double mastectomy rather than a single as the gene meant she had a 50/50 chance of getting cancer again in the future in the breast that wasn't already affected.

It also meant there is a 50/50 chance she will pass the gene on to her children, sons Billy, Charlie, Rafferty and Laurie.

Sarah discovered that while she was negative for BRCA1 and BRCA2, she tested positive for PALB2, which could have wider implications for her children and potential future grandchildren.

Fair: Also in the podcast chat Sarah revealed that she didn't even want to mention her breast cancer battle in her new book

After the results of the test some of the star's family members decided to also get tested.

Her brother Diccon tested negative but her four sons are yet to get tested, while she also passed the information onto her auntie and cousins.

Sarah explained; 'I gave them the control, it's up to them what they do with it. It's a very personal decision. I like the control, others may not want to know.'

As well as opting for a double mastectomy, the star also intends to have her ovaries removed.

Explaining that the gene also means she has a marginal increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, she has decided that as it is only a day surgery and she is done having children she is booked in to have them removed.

In her new book The Simple Life: How I Found Home, the star spoke candidly about her cancer journey but said: 'It's just one thing in my life that's over now. I don't want it to be the one thing that people think about me in 10 years time.'

The property ladder presenter appeared on BBC Breakfast last month as she discussed how grateful she felt to have completed her treatment.

'I'm really lucky. I had a very lucky diagnosis, I'm lucky to live in the UK and I'm lucky to have the NHS. Lucky to be the age I am, so many things I'm grateful for to be honest,' Sarah said.

She said she still felt like the same person after her ordeal, but admitted it opened a 'box of demons' she was forced to confront.

She said: 'I was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and honestly it didn't really change me at all.

'I mean it did obviously, because I had to go through treatment. But I would hate to think I'm a different person now.'

She admitted: 'I'm probably a lot less nervous of cancer now, because it was like the big bad wolf and now I'm like you just deal with it.

'The earlier the diagnosis the better the outcome, so you just need to get to the doctor quick.

'Treatment is amazing compared to 40 years ago and in 40 years' time it really will be nothing.'

The Mid.Point with Gabby Logan is available to listen to on all podcast platforms.
The Kid Laroi and his mother Sloane Howard were seen arriving to a star-studded state dinner with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden at the White House in Washington on Wednesday.

The Australian rap sensation, 20 and Sloane, 51, dressed to impress as they joined a guest list of around 325 at the event hosted for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon.

Laroi, whose real name is Charlton Howard, looked dapper in a long black tuxedo jacket, white buttoned shirt and shiny black shoes.

He was joined by his mother Sloane, who recently had a charge of fraudulently using a credit card to pay for lip filler treatment at a Sydney cosmetic clinic withdrawn.

She looked glamorous in a long figure-hugging black gown, gold strappy heels and a clutch.

The Kid Laroi and his mother Sloane Howard were seen arriving to a star-studded state dinner with President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden at the White House on Wednesday

In February, Sloane had her charge dropped after she was accused of using a man's credit card to obtain $849 lip filler treatment.

She'd pleaded not guilty to one count of dishonestly obtaining a financial advantage by deception.

She was also not present on July 11 last year when she was convicted in her absence of the same charge.

The following day Sloane sought to have that verdict vacated with an annulment application which was successful and her not guilty plea was restored.

The Australian rap sensation, 20 and Sloane, 51, dressed to impress as they joined a guest list of around 325 at the event hosted for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon

READ MORE: The Bidens welcome Australia's Anthony Albanese and partner Jodie Haydon to a subdued White House state dinner Advertisement

Police originally alleged Sloane used the credit card details of a John Keith to pay for a lip filler treatment worth $849 at the Laser Clinics outlet at Marrickville Metro shopping centre on August 8, 2018.

Magistrate Susan McIntyre had found the offence proven, fined Sloane $1,000 and ordered her to pay $849 in compensation to Laser Clinic Australia.

The case was listed for hearing in February, but the charge was subsequently withdrawn.

Laroi owes much of his success to Solane, whose musical tastes shaped her son's and who closely manages his affairs.

He has previously discussed the lengths his mother went to in supporting him and his younger brother Austin after her separation in 2007 from her husband, music producer Nick Howard.

Sloane recently had a charge of fraudulently using a credit card to pay for lip filler treatment at a Sydney cosmetic clinic withdrawn

After his parents parted ways, Sloane took her sons to Broken Hill in far western New South Wales where she set up a talent agency before returning to Sydney about 2017.

Laroi has spoken at length about his time in public housing and how his family was evicted from one block of units.

Since the Aria-winner broke through to global superstardom in 2020, his mother and Austin have lived in Los Angeles with him.

He has gone on to record duets with Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber and recently signed with Bieber's manager Scooter Braun.
DJ Envy got a surprising vote of confidence on Tuesday  from the accused fraudster whom he has been sued alongside over a 'Ponzi-like investment fraud scheme.'

The 46-year-old Breakfast Club co-host was defended by the celebrity house-flipper Cesar Pina in an Instagram Live video in which he claimed that Envy (real name: RaaShaun Casey) wasn't involved in the business deals that are cited as examples of his alleged fraud.

However, Pina also shot back at his 'business partner' over his claims that he was among the alleged victims of his investment fraud scheme.

Pina stuck up for his pal just days after the offices of iHeartMedia, which puts on Envy's show, were raided by federal agents.

Although Envy has not been charged alongside Pina, he is listed in the criminal complaint as 'Individual-1' and is described as Pina's business partner.

Odd defender: The Breakfast Club host DJ Envy, 46, was defended by his 'business partner' Cesar Pina on Tuesday after Envy was sued alongside him for an allegedly 'Ponzi-like' house flipping fraud scheme; seen in 2021 in LA

Not involved? Pina, who has also been hit with federal charges for the alleged fraud scheme, said 'Envy was never in the room with me' to defend his pal

Cesar Pina breaks his silence on his real estate scam allegations on IG live



"in all these lawsuits, DJ Envy was never in the room with me!" pic.twitter.com/6yCAQkMZid  SOUND (@itsavibe) October 25, 2023

Even though he has seemingly escaped criminal charges at this point, he has been listed as a co-defendant in lawsuits against Pina.

The house flipper is accused of promising major returns on real estate investments in New Jersey, but the investors suing him claim that they received little or nothing in return for their investments.

He would allegedly promise high returns of 20 to 45 percent for flipping homes, but then rather than reinvesting any profits, he allegedly used some of the money for himself, while other funds were use to pay off investors from earlier deals, which authorities compared to Ponzi scheme.

Although people initially shared their complaints about Pina's returns on social media, he has now been sued at least 20 times.

One attorney claimed that at least 30 people are suing him, with over $40 million being request from Pina and his wife, according to Billboard.

DJ Envy appears to be on the radar of many of these allegedly bilked investors because he regularly promoted Pina on The Breakfast Club, and the criminal complaint against Pina says he worked with the disgraced businessman to put on seminars promoting his real estate acumen and urging investors to trust their money with him.

But Pina said on his IG live that Envy wasn't directly involved in any of his business matters, though he didn't appear to confirm or deny his alleged guilt.

'DJ Envy was never in the room with me,' Pina claimed on the livestream. 'DJ Envy has nothing to do with any of these 20 lawsuits of these people who are suing me. It f***ing sucks, bro. It pisses me off that all these people are bashing DJ Envy.'

However, he also denied Envy and his attorney's claim that the radio host was a potential victim of the alleged scheme.

He has said he knew nothing of the alleged scheme, while also claiming that he lost $500,000 that he invested in one of Pina's real estate deals.

'Thats the dumbest s*** I ever heard in my life,' the flipper responded. 'Hes not a victim. He was my partner, he was an investor.'

'Ponzi-like scheme': Pina's accused of promising sky-high returns on house flipping investments in New Jersey, but delivering little to nothing in returns to investors. The Feds and civil suits allege that he pocked some of the profits and paid earlier investors with some of them; Envy and Pinsa seen in October 2022 in NYC

Pulling him back in: Pina also lashed out at Envy's claims that he was a victim. 'Thats the dumbest s*** I ever heard in my life,' the flipper responded. 'Hes not a victim. He was my partner, he was an investor'

Intimately entwined: The criminal complaint calls Envy 'Individual-1' and accuses him of using his radio show to repeatedly promote Pina, along with doing seminars to convince people to give him money; pictured in April 2022 in NYC

Pina spent the rest of the live stream defending himself and claiming innocence.

He also took a jab at some of the investors who are suing him or helping the government make its case again him. He claimed that their efforts made it less likely that he would profit from his house flipping investments, meaning they would also be less likely to see a dime in profits.

'And guess what, you f***ng geniuses? Now the government is involved. Now the government is gonna come in and say, "Were staying all these lawsuits until your criminal proceedings are done,"' Pina said.

'So guess what? From a year to two years to getting paid  now it could be three to five years! And you guys will be lucky if you see anything. This is the most r****d s*** in the world,' he added.
Jenelle Evans on Wednesday said that there is no arrest warrant against her husband David Eason, after he was charged with child abuse this week after her son Jace, 14, went missing three times in six weeks.

'There isn't any warrant issued,' the Teen Mom 2 star, 31, told her 3.1 million followers on Instagram Stories.

Evans said that the reporting around Eason, 35, is 'getting insane at this point.'

She advised her followers not to believe reports coming from certain outlets or Teen Mom fan pages, saying 'they get stupid sources and don't fact check [beforehand].'

Evans' complaint came after a court clerk in the couple's native North Carolina told The U.S. Sun Wednesday that records indicated a warrant for Eason's arrest which had not yet been served.

The latest: Jenelle Evans, 31, on Wednesday said that there is no arrest warrant against her husband David Eason, 35, after he was charged with child abuse this week after her son Jace, 14, went missing three times in six weeks

The clerk told the outlet of Eason: 'I don't see anything that has been served. But there is a warrant out for his arrest.'

Evans accompanied her message with a short clip in which she sang along with the 2018 Snow Tha Product single Today I Decided.

Evans on Tuesday said in exclusive comments to DailyMail.com that the charge 'doesn't have anything to do with' Eason and claimed police were 'looking into the wrong person right now.'

Evans shares Jace with ex Andrew Lewis and is also mother to son Kaiser, nine, with ex Nathan Griffith; and daughter Ensley, six, with Eason.

Since Jace's three attempts to run away, he has returned to the care of his maternal grandmother Barbara Evans, with whom he has lived for much of his life.

Evans said that 'there is a vile situation going on and its not pertaining my husband. This story is one sided and no interviews were conducted asking what happened when the "incident" occurred.

She added: 'I cannot say any details at this time because this is about my sons mental health, not about my husband and I cannot stress that enough.

'Our time will come in court and we will have our day to present the evidence that has been adding up since 2017, and again it doesnt have anything to do with my husband. I would love privacy at this time for my own mental health and my familys well-being.'

Response: Evans advised her followers not to believe reports coming from certain outlets or Teen Mom fan pages, saying 'they get stupid sources and don't fact check [beforehand]'

Defense: Jenelle Evans has defended her husband David Eason in the wake of his charge for child abuse after her son Jace, 14, went missing three times in six weeks (pictured 2019)

Mom and son: Evans shares Jace (pictured together) with ex Andrew Lewis and is also mother to son Kaiser, nine, with ex Nathan Griffith; and daughter Ensley, six, with Eason

The charge is a misdemeanor, TMZ reported Tuesday, adding that the probe against the Oak Island, North Carolina native and her husband began after Jace's third disappearance.

In a clip she filmed on Monday and posted to TikTok Tuesday, Jenelle slammed her mother, complained about getting harassed on social media, and physically stood by the side of Eason, who was seen in the closing seconds of the clip.

In her social media post, Jenelle said that she was getting a lot of 'feedback' on her social media posts and came to the conclusion that her followers hate her.

'Im just getting so much harassment and Im being called a piece of s*** mom [and] horrible mother,' Jenelle said.

She implied that her mother Barbara was the culprit behind the child abuse probe and charge against Eason, as well as the nasty fallout of the ongoing situation.

'All of these comments are stemming from one person who is spreading it - if you know who Im talking about,' she said.

Jenelle said that she was holding her tongue on the specifics on the case for the time being, and urged her followers to refrain from posting negative sentiments to her social media pages.

'This will all be over soon and then Ill be able to tell you guys the full truth and whats going on,' she said, 'but like right now, please just keep your comments to yourself because Im trying to keep my mental health in check.'

Comment: The Teen Mom 2 star said the charge 'doesn't have anything to do with' Eason and claimed police were 'looking into the wrong person right now' in exclusive comments to DailyMail.com

In a clip she filmed on Monday and posted to TikTok Tuesday, Jenelle slammed her mother, complained about getting harassed on social media, and physically stood by the side of Eason, who was seen in the closing seconds of the clip

Jenelle said she was 'getting so much harassment' and 'being called a piece of s*** mom [and] horrible mother' amid the child abuse probe and subsequent charge of Eason

Jenelle said that she was holding her tongue on the specifics on the case for the time being, and urged her followers to refrain from posting negative sentiments to her social media pages

Jenelle said amid the trying times, she still had to 'go to work,' 'post content,' and 'make videos for you guys.'

She added, 'I want to keep you guys updated with real content and not just complaining or talking about my situation all the time.'

In a separate recording in the post, she said that she had 'been crying for 30 minutes' and was continuing to try and stay upbeat amid the difficult timeframe.

'I know youll see me all the time on TikTok and you're like, "Shes so happy she doesnt care" - I do care about whats going on, I just try not to film myself when I'm so depressed, you know?

'But I need to keep reminding myself Ive been through way worse in the past, and this will pass - this too shall pass.'

Jenelle then focused her ire on her mother Barbara - who she has had a mercurial relationship with over the years - saying she has broken the 'generational curse' in her family.

'I think what hurts me the most is that my own parent would do this to me, my own parent caused this whole storm, s*** storm - it just hurts because I would never treat my children that way,' she said.

Jenelle continued, 'I know that I will treat my children with love and respect and if they need my help, I will give them my help without making them feel like a burden.'

In a separate recording in the post, she said that she had 'been crying for 30 minutes' and was continuing to try and stay upbeat amid the difficult timeframe

Jenelle then focused her ire on her mother Barbara - who she has had a mercurial relationship with over the years - saying she has broken the 'generational curse' in her family

Jenelle and her mother Barbara were pictured in August of 2015 at the MTV VMAs in LA

Jenelle said, 'I think what hurts me the most is that my own parent would do this to me, my own parent caused this whole storm, s*** storm - it just hurts because I would never treat my children that way.' Pictured in LA in August of 2015

The couple was pictured October 15 at the Wilmington Gun & Knife Show in Wilmington, North Carolina in video published by TMZ, amid reports that 'criminal charges [were] likely' to be filed against them in connection with an assault and neglect probe by social workers.

The MTV personality and her husband brought children Kaiser and Ensley to the event, where weapons such as guns and knives are displayed for sale on tables, sources told the outlet, adding that Jace was not present for the outing.

Eason and Kaiser looked at items such as rifle scopes, gun holster and knives while at the weapons marketplace; while Ensley remained close to Evans, witnesses told the outlet.

Eason appeared 'to purchase a bulletproof vest for himself, and a wooden battle ax for Kaiser,' TMZ reported, citing witnesses.

Evans and her daughter spent about 20 minutes total at the show before leaving, onlookers told the outlet.

TMZ reported earlier this month that the CPS probe of Evans and Eason 'is in the final stages' and that it is probable that one or both are charged as a result.

The Ashley reported that at an October 11 custody hearing, Eason was removed from the courtroom.

In a previous hearing, Evans was prohibited from speaking with Jace, unless he initiated it, while Eason was forbidden to have any contact with the teen.

Charges: Evans and her husband were investigated after Jace claimed his stepfather assaulted him September 28

No contact: The court has ordered Jenelle to have no contact with Jace unless he initiates it. The judge ruled David cannot have any contact with the teen who is currently living with his grandmother, Barbara

Interesting: Jenelle made additional comments in the form of Instgram Stories posted on Tuesday

Law enforcement officials are investigating allegations that Eason assaulted Jace on September 28.

A source told The Sun that the following day, Jace was taken to the hospital, where doctors found marks on his arms and neck.

The source also alleged the physical interaction was captured on the doorbell camera at their home.

It appears that the probe appears to be expanding to include their other children as well, as Jace has claimed he is not the only one to be physically harmed.

'The judge asked a lot of questions about what Jace saw, and she took the allegations of abuse against the other minors in the home very seriously,' a source told the outlet.

Evans welcomed Jace in 2009 when she was just 17-years-old - she was filming 16 and Pregnant at the time and still in a relationship with his father, Lewis.

The former reality star regained custody of the teen earlier this year.

Eason shares son Kaiser, nine, with ex Griffith; a source told the outlet the boy had been having trouble at school.

Investigation: The investigation has expanded, and CPS investigators have been ordered to speak to Jenelle's other kids; Kaiser, nine, and Ensley, six, away from Jenelle and her husband Eason. David's daughter, Maryssa, 16, also lives with the family

'Kaiser was suspended from school for a week recently,' a source said. 'He's in third grade. It's not normal at all. The kids are acting out. And, it's a total cry for help.'

Eason's daughter, Maryssa, 16, also lives on the property, which they call The Land, with the family.

CPS investigators were allegedly prevented from speaking to Kaiser and Ensley when they came out to investigate.

'It was said in court that the first time CPS came, they didnt let them in,' a source told the outlet. 'The second time [they came] David thought they were trespassers and threatened to shoot them and the third time, they came in, but Jenelle only allowed the kids to be interviewed while she was present.

Per the judge's ruling on Wednesday, 'The kids will now be interviewed away from Jenelle.'

Depending on the result of the investigation, both Evans and Eason could be facing charges for neglect and assault, according to TMZ.

Another hearing has been set for later this month to determine how Jace's living situation with his grandmother is going.
Uma Thurman lovingly posed for a snap taken by her 'nepo baby' Maya Hawke as they hit the red carpet together Wednesday night.

The mother-daughter duo headed to the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York to attend a 25th anniversary gala for Room To Grow, a nonprofit focused on new parents.

Heightening the family resemblance between them, Uma and Maya arrived at the fete in matching head-to-toe black ensembles.

Maya, 25, whose father is Uma's smoldering ex-husband and Gattaca co-star Ethan Hawke, treated the photographers to her megawatt smile.

She exuded retro chic in a collarless jacket top with gleaming buttons, teamed with a pair of loose-fitted slacks and sleek leather shoes.

Snap: Uma Thurman lovingly posed for a snap taken by her ' nepo baby ' Maya Hawke as they hit the red carpet together Wednesday night

Family time: The mother-daughter duo headed to the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York to attend a 25th anniversary gala for Room To Grow, a nonprofit focused on new parents

Slicking her dark hair severely back into a bun, she accentuated her features with naturalistic makeup and accessorized with a slouched handbag.

Uma on the other hand draped her statuesque figure in a long, shimmery black gown that featured a slit up the front to flash a bit of leg.

Lending herself a touch of extra stature with stilettos, the already 5'11" actress loomed over her daughter as they posed together in front of the photographers.

With her signature blonde locks swept back into a ponytail, Uma framed her cloven-in-marble visage with a pair of Fred Leighton earrings.

Maya is currently being directed by her father in Wildcat, an upcoming biopic of the celebrated American writer Flannery O'Connor.

In a recent interview with Variety, she confessed that starring in her father's movie in the wake of the 'nepo baby' controversy did give her a bit of pause.

'I had moments of insecurity about it while we were shooting the movie,' she said. 'But the internet doesnt have a lot of nuances. My dad has been a massive teacher for me, and we want to work together. We like being with each other.'

Ethan meanwhile chimed in: 'If someone wants to criticize us for working together, thats totally fair. You have to let people have their opinion. You just have to try to do a good job when youre onstage.'

Dynamic duo: Heightening the family resemblance between them, Uma and Maya arrived at the fete in matching head-to-toe black ensembles

Aglow: Maya, 25, whose father is Uma's smoldering ex-husband and Gattaca co-star Ethan Hawke , treated the photographers to her megawatt smile

Hello, gorgeous: Uma on the other hand draped her statuesque figure in a long, shimmery black gown that featured a slit up the front to flash a bit of leg

The shoot of Wildcat came on the heels of a social media furor over 'nepo babies' in who are said to have gotten showbiz careers because of family connections.

Maya is one of a massive glut of rising starlets with famous parents, from Johnny Depp's daughter Lily-Rose Depp to Andie MacDowell's daughter Margaret Qualley.

Maude Apatow, whose parents are Judd Apatow and Leslie Mann, and Kaia Gerber, whose mother is Cindy Crawford, have shot to fame in recent years as well.

Madonna's daughter Lourdes Leon, Heidi Klum's daughter Leni Klum and Elvis Presley's granddaughter Riley Keough are also coming up, among others.

Maya remarked to Rolling Stone last year: 'I feel like the only way to handle the nepotism thing - which definitely gives you massive advantages in this life - is, you will get chances for free, but the chances will not be infinite.'

She explained: 'So you have to keep working and do a good job. If you do a bad job, the chances will stop. That's my ethos.'

The online chatter around 'nepo babies' reached a fever pitch this past December after New York magazine ran a viral cover story about the phenomenon.

Dakota Johnson, whose parents are Don Johnson and Melanie Griffith and whose grandmother is Hitchcock blonde Tippi Hedren, was one of the faces on the cover.
Bachelorette star Georgia Love has revealed her bizarre purchase after having one too many drinks at dinner.

The 35-year-old journalist-turned-PR took to Instagram to showcase a questionable piece of clothing she didn't remember ordering.

'I just had the postie come to my door to sign for a package, and I was like, I haven't ordered anything... I signed away opened up the package,' she began.

'Turns out last weekend I made a drunk purchase while I was out with my friends. Do you want to see what it is?' Georgie asked her followers.

She then held up a large green gold cat skirt of Taylor Swift's cat, which retails for about $20 online.

Bachelorette star Georgia Love has revealed her bizarre drunken purchase on Thursday after having one too drinks at dinner

The 35-year-old journalist-turned-PR took to Instagram showcase a questionable piece of clothing she didn't remember ordering

'I love it so much! Okay, look, it's a little big,' she laughed. 'Maybe drunk me, I think, ordered this after a big dinner. But is this one the best thing you've ever seen?'

Georgia recently revealed her surprising new career move.

She landed as a radio newsreader in the mornings for KIIS FM in Melbourne.

Taking to her Instagram account, the former TV newsreader shared a selfie of her smiling while sitting behind the microphone in the studio.

'Always been told I've got a face for radio! Exciting and super fun new gig taking to the airwaves to bring Melbourne your news on KISS 101.1,' she wrote in her caption.

'Turns out last weekend I made a drunk purchase while I was out with my friends. Do you want to see what it is?' Georgie then asked her followers

She then held up a large green gold cat skirt of Taylor Swift's cat, which retails for about $20 online

Georgia has jumped around a number of high-profile media jobs in the last two years.

She began her career in journalism at WIN News, before her profile skyrocketed in 2016 when she was cast on Channel 10's The Bachelorette.

She went on to become a casual reporter for Ten Eyewitness News in Melbourne, later rebranded 10 News First, but was let go due to budget cuts in early 2021.

The role was what she described as her dream job, before jumping ship to rival network Channel Seven in February 2021.
She left her fans and critics with their jaws on the floor when she revealed that she and her husband Will Smith had been separated and living apart for seven years, despite presenting the image of a happily married couple.

But now Jada Pinkett Smith's new memoir Worthy  in which she shared the status of her marriage and numerous other revelations  appears to be performing poorly on some major book bestseller lists.

The 52-year-old actress released the book on October 17, and it managed to nab the number three spot on Amazon's charts for the week of October 22, which lists the 'Top 20 most sold & most read books of the week.'

She finished just behind Britney Spears' even buzzier memoir The Woman In Me and David Grann's Killers Of The Flower Moon, which returned to the top of the charts thanks to interest in Martin Scorsese's Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Nirostarring film of the same name.

But on Amazon's main bestsellers list, Worthy had plummeted to just number 81 as of Tuesday, according to Newsweek.

Not moving units: Jada Pinkett Smith, 52, scored to chart in the top 10 on several major best seller lists after releasing her buzzy memoir Worthy last week; seen October 17 in NYC

Shocker: The memoir, which includes shocking revelations about her relationship with husband Will Smith, even failed to place on some lists completely

By Wednesday evening it had dropped three more spots to number 84.

Notably, the main bestsellers chart only tracks sales, whereas Jada's book placed in the top three on the online retailers charts that track both sales and the number of Kindle readers and Audible listeners working through the book, suggesting that more people were interested in her memoir than were willing to shell out for a copy they could own.

The Matrix star's book also struggled to get readers to leave a review on Amazon.

The store's listing shows as of Wednesday that only 148 people have left a rating on her book, compared to the 1,043 people who have rated Britney Spears' memoir, which was only released on Tuesday.

Worthy was completely missing from Amazon's list of its 100 top-selling Kindle books.

However, it did top specialty list of 'Women's Biographies.'

It was also absent from Publishers Weekly's top 25 overall bestsellers, and it didn't make the top 10 on its nonfiction bestsellers list either.

Barnes & Noble's bestseller list was similarly missing an entry for Worthy in its top 100, but John Stamos  whose book was released after Jada's  scored a spot in the 30s with his memoir.

However, another celebrity memoir  Britney's  graced the number one spot, while Killers Of The Flower Moon  which is six years old  also nabbed a spot in the top 10.

Not paying: Jada scored number three on Amazon's list of the most sold and read books, but she dropped way down to #84 on the list purely measuring sales; seen with Will in 2022

MIA: It missed out on the Publishers Weekly top 25 and Barnes & Noble's top 100 list. The book included details about her relationship with Tupac; seen October 17 in NYC

Some good news: However, the New York Times' prestigious bestsellers list placed Worthy at number four for combined print and e-book bestsellers, and at three when just considering physical copies; seen October 18 with Willow, Trey, Jaden and Will

Arnold Schwarzenegger's new memoir and self-help book, Be Useful: Seven Tools For Life, also top several lists or placed high up, indicating that readers weren't opposed to all celebrity-penned books.

However, Jada may not have to worry too much about her book's sales, as it still placed prominently on what is widely considered the most prestigious of all bestseller charts: the New York Times' list.

The times has Worthy at number four on its list of combined print and e-book bestsellers, and she had the third-most popular nonfiction book when only looking at physical hardcover sales.

The Times' list isn't a purely objective ranking of sales, as it also attempts to exclude books that may try to game the system through bulk purchases.
He's been announced as the brand new co-host of I'm A Celebrity alongside Julia Morris.

And Robert Irwin couldn't wipe the smile off his face as he arrived at Sydney Airport alongside his girlfriend Rorie Buckey on Wednesday.

The son of the late crocodile hunter Steve Irwin is heading to Melbourne with his lady love in what appears to be for his new co-hosting role.

Robert, 19, arrived wearing a black T-shirt and dark blue denim jeans for the short flight.

He layered with a grey puffer jacket and rocked a pair of cream-coloured sneakers.

Robert Irwin, 19, couldn't wipe the smile off his face as he arrived at Sydney Airport alongside his girlfriend Rorie Buckey, also 19, on Wednesday

The son of the late crocodile hunter Steve Irwin is heading to Melbourne with his lady love in what appears to be for his new co-hosting role

Meanwhile, Rorie, also 19, looked comfortable in a black trench coat and pants.

The blonde was wearing a white face mask and accessorised with a Marc Jacobs handbag.

The lovebirds laughed and smiled for the cameras while Robert even took a photo of the crew before heading inside the terminal.

He too put on a black face mask and picked up his luggage to check in for his flight.

Robert arrived wearing a black T-shirt and dark blue denim jeans for the short flight

He layered with a grey puffer jacket and rocked a pair of cream-coloured sneakers

Rorie looked comfortable in a black trench coat and pants

Daily Mail Australia revealed the wildlife warrior is set to pocket almost half a million dollars for his month-and-a-half-long foray into the wilds of South Africa.

According to a well placed source at Channel 10, Irwin 'will earn over $430,000' from his six-week stint in the jungle, and they think he will be 'worth every cent'.

Given Robert's magnetic appeal and the adoration he commands from fans around the globe, the investment is poised to pay off handsomely for the network.

'His pairing with the witty and ever-entertaining Julia [Morris] has all the makings of a dynamic duo, promising viewers an unforgettable experience,' said the source.

The blonde was wearing a white face mask and accessorised with a Marc Jacobs handbag

The lovebirds laughed and smiled for the cameras

It comes days after it was revealed that the wildlife warrior beat out big names Sam Pang, Jimmy Rees, Curtis Stone, Beau Ryan and Tristan MacManus for the role.

Robert confirmed on Tuesday that he will stand alongside comedian Julia for the upcoming 2024 season of the reality show, replacing Dr Chris Brown.

Speaking to the Herald Sun ahead of Channel 10's Upfronts, Robert couldn't contain his excitement for the new role.

'This just feels like it was meant to be,' he told the publication.

Robert even took a photo of the crew before heading inside the terminal

Daily Mail Australia revealed the wildlife warrior is set to pocket almost half a million dollars for his month-and-a-half-long foray into the wilds of South Africa

It isn't the first time Robert has appeared in the jungle. In 2016, the photographer appeared as a guest on the show alongside his mum, Terri, and sister Bindi.

He admitted he's been a 'massive fan of the show' every since.

'I was knee-high to a grasshopper and had the bowl cut,' he recalled.

'I loved so much getting to do that show.'

Robert was tipped for the role back in September, according to TV Blackbox's 'trusted sources'.

He too put on a black face mask and picked up his luggage to check in for his flight

Robert confirmed on Tuesday that he will stand alongside comedian Julia for the upcoming 2024 season of the reality show, replacing Dr Chris Brown

In August, Morris told Yahoo Lifestyle! that the show will go in a 'completely different way' following the departure of her co-host Brown after they shared the screen for almost a decade.

She explained that she was testing her 'chemistry' with six potential candidates and the selection will change the dynamic.

'I'm going to have to leave everything of the past behind,' the 55-year-old told the publication at the time.

Brown, 45, left Channel 10 for more onscreen opportunities at rival Seven.

He first joined Ten in 2008 to host Bondi Vet, before becoming a part-time panelist on The Project and also co-hosted I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and The Living Room, which was axed last year.
Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Dorit Kemsley and husband Paul 'PK' Kemsley have denied claims that their eight-year-marriage is over.

The reality TV star, 47, and the English businessman, 56, have reportedly been 'living separate lives for about two months after she ended it' according to In Touch.

However, the couple have since responded to the claims and said that though they have had some 'challenging years' they 'have not separated.'

Earlier it was reported that PK has been living at a hotel in Beverly Hills and is said to be 'heartbroken' about the split, according to a source who spoke with the publication.

'She's been telling people that she fell out of love with him but they agreed to keep it a secret for now so it doesnt affect the show,' the source added.

DailyMail.com has reached out to representatives for Dorit and PK.

Over? Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Dorit Kemsley and husband Paul 'PK' Kemsley have denied claims that their eight-year-marriage is over; pictured in April

'We have had some challenging years, which we openly discuss in the upcoming season of RHOBH,' the pair's statement to In Touch began.

'We remain committed to working through these issues as a united couple for our family. We have not separated nor are we planning to do so. Rather, we are focused on healing, making changes and doing the things that many couples have to do at some point in their marriage.'

'We would be grateful for everyones understanding. We are doing what we can to focus on the best interests of our family, as opposed to spending our time contending with rumors and hearsay that are not true.'

The pair said 'I do' back in 2015. They share daughter Phoenix, seven, and son Jagger, nine.

PK also shares children Daniel, Atlanta and Tatum with his first wife, Loretta Gold.

The news comes after the RHOBH season 13 premiere - which aired on Wednesday - called the marriage into question, with co-star Sutton Stracke revealing a rumor that PK had another 'woman in the car' during his 2021 DUI.

'The only thing that Ive ever heard about PK and Dorit was the night PK got pulled over for a DUI,' Sutton, 52, said in a confessional during the episode.

Though at the time it was reported that PK was alone in the car during, Sutton said she's heard a different version.

'He may have or may not have had a woman in the car with him. Thats the only rumor I've ever heard,' she shared.

Separate lives: The reality TV star, 47, and the English businessman, 56, have reportedly been 'living separate lives for about two months after she ended it' according to In Touch

Challenging: However, the couple have since responded to the claims and said that though they have had some 'challenging years' they 'have not separated'; seen in March

Heartbroken: Earlier, it was reported that PK has been living at a hotel in Beverly Hills and is said to be 'heartbroken' about the split, according to a source who spoke with the publication, seen in 2017

'Out of love': 'She's been telling people that she fell out of love with him but they agreed to keep it a secret for now so it doesnt affect the show,' the source added

Parents of two: The pair said 'I do' back in 2015. They share daughter Phoenix, seven, and son Jagger, nine

PK was arrested in Los Angeles for suspicion of DUI on November 23, 2021. A source close to Kemsley told DailyMail.com at the time that PK was driving home alone after having a glass of wine with dinner and believed he was sober enough to drive.

In 2022 the Los Angeles City Attorneys Office confirmed to TMZ that the case had been rejected due to an 'insufficiency of the evidence.'

During Wednesday's premiere episode Dorit also addressed marriage struggles while talking with co-star Kyle Richards, as she spoke about her 'difficult year' after being diagnosed with PTSD following the robbery of her home, and the effects that's had on her marriage.

'My husband, the one that you depend on the most, was spending a lot of time in London. I started to feel like PK and I weren't connected,' she explained.

'For the first time ever I thought, "Is it possible that PK and I would not make it?"'

Kyle reassured her that she's also 'had those thoughts' about her own marriage to Mauricio Umansky.

'I think it's normal to have those thoughts. I think there's times in your relationship where life happens and it can pull you apart and you can either grow in different ways or you can pull it together like you guys have and start from scratch and put in the work like you're doing with a therapist and come out the other side,' she said.

Another woman? The news comes after the RHOBH season 13 premiere called the marriage into question, with co-star Sutton Stracke revealing a rumor that PK had another 'woman in the car' during his 2021 DUI

Marriage woes: During Wednesday's premiere episode Dorit also addressed her marriage struggles while talking with co-star Kyle Richards

'My husband, the one that you depend on the most, was spending a lot of time in London. I started to feel like PK and I weren't connected,' she explained. 'For the first time ever I thought, "Is it possible that PK and I would not make it?"'

Needed more: 'You needed more from him, and he wasn't capable of doing it at the time,' Kyle replied. 'I needed more from him,' Dorit agreed

'It's normal. A lot of marriages go through it,' Dorit concurred.

'It'd be one thing if he cheated on me or he lied to me or he did something and I can say there was an incident, [but] there wasn't. It was like a period of time that I just needed him and he wasn't there,' she shared.

'You needed more from him, and he wasn't capable of doing it at the time,' Kyle replied.

'I needed more from him,' Dorit agreed.

Dorit also confronted her co-star Erika Jayne for a 'deeply hurtful' comment she made about her marriage.

During Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in 2022, the Pretty Mess author, 52, was asked which 'Bravolebrity relationship' she thought was 'headed for Splitsville.'

'Dorit and PK,' Erika responded.

After Dorit confronted her about it on the season premiere, Erika responded: 'Dorit, is your marriage strong?'

Hurtful comment: Dorit also confronted her co-star Erika Jayne for a 'deeply hurtful' comment she made about her marriage

Interesting: During Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in 2022, the Pretty Mess author, 52, was asked which 'Bravolebrity relationship' she thought was 'headed for Splitsville' and replied 'Dorit and PK'

Very strong: After Dorit confronted her about it on the season premiere, Erika responded: 'Dorit, is your marriage strong?' Dorit replied by saying her and PKs relationship was 'very strong'

Dorit replied by saying her and PKs relationship was 'very strong.'

It appears the star's marriage will be further examined in season 13, as a press release for the show describes how Dorit and PK will 'attempt to work their way back from an issue that almost cost them their marriage.'

The split rumors come a year after Dorit was forced to hit back at a rumor that she had an affair with Richards' now-estranged husband Mauricio, 53.

She left a lengthy comment underneath a fake movie poster for 'An Affair to Remember' featuring herself and Umansky, which Dana Wilkey, 47, posted to her Instagram.

The Beverly Beach founder wrote that the claim was a 'disgusting lie' and added that Wilkey - who's previously appeared on a few episodes of the first three seasons of RHOBH - was 'definitely one of the thirstiest people.'

'Kyle and Mau are our friends and my kids call them uncle and auntie. Do you think this is OK for my kids to see when its a disgusting lie?'

'If this is the only way you can make a buck then so be it but at least have some decency and stop trying to peddle false narratives especially when you know there is ZERO truth behind it and your whole motive is to just hurt people for no reason,' she wrote.

She also addressed the rumors on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen that year: 'Honey, listen. When something is so ridiculous, you just kind of discount it.'

Affair rumors: It comes a year after Dorit was forced to hit back at a rumor that she had an affair with Richards' now-estranged husband Mauricio, 53; the trio seen in 2021

'Its something that sticks a chord only because Mau, PK, Kyle and I, were friends together and it is such a nothing and to have someone start those vile rumors, its gross.'

Prior to the split rumors, Dorit shared that she and PK 'have talked about' renewing their wedding vows in a 2022 interview with In Touch.

She also shared that she 'would love to have more children.'

'As of right now, Ive got my two beloved children, my munchkins and my husband is a handful by the way,' she said of PK.
Britney Spears' ex-husband Jason Alexander made the bombshell claim on Thursday he still speaks to the pop princess - and that she is on friendly terms with his current wife Rebecca Bell.

Alexander, 42, told Kyle and Jackie O that after their marriage was annulled in 2004 after 55 hours he didn't speak to Britney, 41, for a decade - but they have since reconciled.

'There was a ten year gap where I didn't speak to her but she reached out to me in 2020 and we started talking over the phone,' he began.

Alexander said that through regular phone calls he managed to once again become close to Britney, almost two decades after their infamous annulment.

He added Britney has even started speaking to his current wife Rebecca Bell, who he married in March, and become close to her.

Britney Spears' ex-husband Jason Alexander (pictured together) made the bombshell claim on Thursday he still speaks to her - and that she is friends with his current wife Rebecca Bell

'My wife is not jealous of the situation at all, she's super supportive. She has spoken to her several time over the phone and Britney said she was happy for us,' he added.

Elsewhere in the interview, Alexander, who famously eloped with the pop star in Las Vegas in 2004, said he crashed her wedding to Sam Asghari last year to 'check-up on her'.

The childhood friend of the Toxic hitmaker was arrested for battery and aggravated trespassing when he broke into her California home in 2022 - but he says he had a 'good reason' for crashing her nuptials.

Alexander, 42, told Kyle and Jackie O that after their marriage was annulled in 2004 after 55 hours he didn't speak to Britney, 41, for a decade - but they have since reconciled

'She reached out to me in 2020 and we started talking over the phone and having this private conversation that no one really knew about,' he told hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson.

'So when the conservatorship ended, I felt like because of the way the conversations were going with me and her, we'd be able to actually see each other for the first time since Vegas in person, besides just speaking over the phone.

He continued: 'So when I found out that she was getting married, I spoke to her literally like three days before that on the phone, on that Monday before the wedding and she didn't even mention getting married.'

'There was a ten year gap where I didn't speak to her but she reached out to me in 2020 and we started talking over the phone,' Jason said

Jason went on to say he 'was super surprised' by the wedding and decided to show up to the ceremony since he 'was actually in California at the time'.

He insisted he 'was really just trying to see [Britney] and ask her if [the wedding] was really what she wanted'.

Despite being asked to leave, Jason said he called out to Britney while live-streaming the entire incident to Instagram, but received no response before he was apprehended by security and later arrested.

Alexander said that through regular phone calls he managed to once again become close to Britney, almost two decades after their infamous annulment

Britney and Sam later separated in August this year with the fitness instructor, 29, filing for divorce.

In her new memoir, The Woman In Me, Britney claimed her 55 hour marriage to Jason in 2004 was just 'innocent fun' they had when they were 'drunk' and 'bored'.

The marriage - which took place on January 3, 2004 at A Little White Wedding Chapel, was annulled three days later on January 5.
Kylie Jenner shocked her fans on Tuesday with the announcement that she was expanding her fashion empire with a new 'affordable' clothing line named Khy.

However, the initial reactions from social media users weren't encouraging, as the 26-year-old Kardashians star was hit with a wave of complaints about the brand's supposedly cheap price point.

Although some of the items were reportedly set to be sold for lower prices than similar competitors, her fans and critics balked at some of the most expensive items in the line, which will supposedly max out around $200.

Beyond complaints about the prices, some fans were upset by the the reality star's alleged lack of inspiration when it came to her designs.

As evidence of both a lack of originality and inflated prices, some fans spied a pair of Khy gloves that Kylie wore in a WSJ. Magazine piece announcing the venture, which were nearly identical to a pair of gloves sold on Amazon for nearly half what she is charging.

Pricy and uninspired: Kylie Jenner shook up her fans with the announcement of her 'affordable' fashion line Khy on Tuesday, but many social media critics bashed the prices and supposed lack of inspiration

'Affordable lol,' wrote one poster on X (formerly Twitter), which summed up the mood of many users.

Another person simply added: 'And to her, what is "affordable?" Lol.'

However, it wasn't clear if everyone complaining about the prices had dug through to see prices.

Others saw her debuting the line in WSJ. Magazine as evidence that she was releasing something far from an 'affordable' clothing line.

One user mocked the 'affordable' line by reposting the single word with a gif of the late actor Lance Reddick from Netflix's Resident Evil series.

Another common complaint was that Kylie was trying to imitate other celebrity fashion brands, in particular the dark minimalist style of The Row, which was founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.

One poser wrote that Kylie didn't put in 'the time and effort' that the Olsen twins did to become 'one of the most respected brands in fashion.'

Others speculated that Kylie was trying to beat Sofia Richie to the release of her own fashion line

Coming soon: Kylie will begin selling Khy products on November 1

Not buying it: 'Affordable lol,' wrote one poster on X (formerly Twitter), which summed up the mood of many users. However, it wasn't clear if everyone complaining about the prices had dug through to see prices

On the same page: Another person simply added: 'And to her, what is "affordable?" Lol'

Wrong venue? Others saw her debuting the line in WSJ. Magazine as evidence that she was releasing something far from an 'affordable' clothing line

Ouch: One user mocked the 'affordable' line by reposting the single word with a gif of the late actor Lance Reddick from Netflix's Resident Evil series

Copy cat? Another common complaint was that Kylie was trying to imitate other celebrity fashion brands, in particular the dark minimalist style of The Row, which was founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

Competition? Others speculated that Kylie was trying to beat Sofia Richie to the release of her own fashion line

Not a serious person: One user shared a photo of Kylie standing from behind in a tall black Khy coat while calling her 'unserious' and urging their followers to 'save your money and invest in people who started from ground up to become successful'

One user shared a photo of Kylie standing from behind in a tall black Khy coat while calling her 'unserious.'

They urged their followers to 'save your money and invest in people who started from ground up to become successful.'

Others illustrated that alleged lack of seriousness  and questions about Khy's 'affordability'  when they discovered a suspiciously similar pair of gloves to the ones Kylie wore for the WSJ. Magazine.

Several users posts screenshots and links to an Amazon listing for black gloves with bulges on the fingers and knuckles that were practically identical to Kylie's edgy look.

A slightly different striped pattern over the wrist was the only major indication that they weren't the same exact gloves.

But several users cited the Amazon gloves as costing only $20  a medium pair cost just under $25 dollars as of Wednesday night, while other sizes were sold out  but Kylie's Khy gloves were listed as costing $38.

'Not Kylie selling Amazon $20 gloves for $40 as her own brand Khy lmao,' wrote one annoyed fan who compared the two pairs.

However, it is possible that her could have been made with better materials, or in more sustainable fashion, and she may also have chosen to pay the people making them more than the competing Amazon gloves.

But not everyone was ready to write off Khy just yet. One fan said they would be 'buying everything' from the line, while another person joked that they would have the website open on multiple devices to ensure they got their desired purchases when the collection went live online.

Too similar: Some users painted Kylie as an a copycat and also bashed her 'affordable' tag when they discovered a pair of gloves on Amazon that were nearly identical to her Khy gloves and half as expensive

Price difference: The gloves currently cost nearly $25 on Amazon, while Kylie will sell them for $38

They like it! Some fans joked that they would be 'buying everything' as soon as they could

She's into leather: Another person joked that Kylie's leather-friendly clothing would 'look good on a dom-woman like me'

Give it time: Another person acknowledge the criticism but wondered if Khy could still take over eventually like other KardashianJenner businesses

Not a fan of them all: Another user speculated that 'Kim, Kylie and Kendall are the dedicated ones' in the family, based on Kylie's new venture

Over the moon: One user was excited about Kylie gracing the cover of WSJ. Magazine, calling it a 'big deal' and adding, 'It's exciting to see her expanding her fashion ventures'

Expansion? The clothing will initially only be available on the brand's website, though she may later expand her offerings to other sites and stores, just as fellow family brands SKIMS and Good American did

Back in black: Khy released photos of Kylie in the brand's $198 faux leather coat, which some fans mocked for its bulky design

Another person acknowledge the criticism but wondered if Khy could still take over eventually like other KardashianJenner businesses.

Another user speculated that 'Kim, Kylie and Kendall are the dedicated ones' in the family, based on Kylie's new business.

One user was excited about Kylie gracing the cover of WSJ. Magazine, calling it a 'big deal' and adding, 'It's exciting to see her expanding her fashion ventures.'

Kylie will begin selling Khy products on the brand's website starting on November 1.
Her billionaire pub baron beau Justin Hemmes threw her a surprise birthday party for her over the weekend.

And Madeline Holtznagel was back to the grind this week, working hard in the gym.

Madeline, 27, showed off her model figure in a $170 onesie by The Upside as she attended a Pilates session at Body By Berner in North Bondi.

She also rocked a pair of Chanel sneakers and chic black sunglasses.

The younger sister of fellow model Simone Holtznagel was makeup free and had her blonde hair half up, half down for the stretchy session.

Madeline Holtznagel, 27, wore a $170 onesie by The Upside as she attended a Pilates session at Body By Berner in North Bondi

She also rocked a pair of Chanel sneakers and chic black sunglasses

Over the weekend, Madeline celebrated her 27th birthday alongside family and friends, thrown by her beau Justin.

She was ecstatic upon discovering he had thrown her a surprise bash at his luxury $100million home in Vaucluse, Sydney.

She began the joyful day arriving via boat to the waterfront property, where she discovered all her friends waiting to surprise her.

Sharing a video to Instagram of the moment they jumped out to wish her a happy birthday, Madeline wrote: 'The best surprise ever.

'Thank you to my amazing boyfriend and friends who made my birthday so special.'

Madeline was surprised as she arrived at Hemmes' home in her gym gear.

She threw her arms around Justin, 50, and thanked him, before getting glammed up in a dress more fitting for the birthday girl.

The younger sister of fellow model Simone Holtznagel was makeup free and had her blonde hair half up, half down for the stretchy session

Over the weekend, Madeline celebrated her 27th birthday alongside family and friends, thrown by her beau Justin

Back in June, Madeline teased her Instagram followers by wearing a ring on her wedding finger while cuddling up to Justin as they enjoyed a bowl of Udon noodles together at a restaurant in Japan.

The bling appeared to be a pretty turquoise dress ring she teamed with her outfit.

Another photo saw her wearing a different ring on the same finger as she posed in front of a bathroom mirror for a selfie.

The couple were all smiles in the photos, looking happy in love.

The pair have been dating for several years now. She even spent lockdown at his Vaucluse mansion in 2020.

She was ecstatic upon discovering he had thrown her a surprise bash at his luxury $100million home in Vaucluse, Sydney

She now reportedly lives in a Coogee penthouse he owns.

While they used to prefer to keep things low-key, the couple are now fixtures of Sydney's social scene.

Madeline recently wished her publican boyfriend a happy 50th birthday, telling Justin she 'adores' him in an Instagram post.

She shared a gallery of nine photos from the pair's exotic travels across the world, including days at the beach, journeys on private jets, and camping in the woods.

Justin made his debut on the Australian Financial Review's annual Rich List in 2018, with an estimated net worth of $951million.

Last year, his net worth grew to $1.2billion, making him the 97th richest person in Australia.
Erika Jayne again denied using the drug Ozempic for weight loss, in Wednesday's edition of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, titled The Eaglewoman Has Landed.

The episode opened with Dorit Kemsley, 47, hosting a spiritual retreat in Malibu. Jayne, 52, arrived and everyone told her she looked so skinny, to which said it was 'hormones.'

Dorit said in a confessional: 'Oh, are hormones spelled OZEMPIC?'

A producer asked Erika if she was on Ozempic or Wegovy and she denied it.

'No, I'm not, but I'm on some really good hormones,' Erika said.

Slimmed down: Erika Jayne, 52, again denied using the drug Ozempic for weight loss, in Wednesday's edition of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Dorit told Erika who she was very hurt by her comments at BravoCon saying she thought Dorit and Paul 'PK' Kemsey, 56, could be the next couple to break up.

Erika said she was just being a 'showman,' adding, 'I walked right to the end of the stage and I gave those people what they wanted.'

Dorit said in response: 'I kind of thought you were going to lead with an apology rather than defending it,' to which Erika asked, 'Dorit, is your marriage strong?'

Sutton Stracke, 52, said in a confessional: 'The only thing that I've ever heard about PK and Dorit was the night PK got pulled over for a DUI; he may have or may not have had a woman in the car with him.'

Dorit said, 'My marriage is very strong.'

Erika cried, apologizing to the group if she was vicious to them, but said that she was 'getting hit from all sides.'

Kyle hugged her and said she was still upset that no one comforted her at the reunion when the stuff about Kathy Hilton came out.

'I'm not a punching bag,' Kyle said. 'I didn't feel like defending someone who has hurt me repeatedly.'

Skeptical: Dorit Kemsley, 47, cast her doubt on Erika's claim that 'hormones' were the reason for her sudden weight loss

Backdrop: The episode opened with Dorit Kemsley hosting a spiritual retreat in Malibu

Answer: Jayne arrived and everyone told her she looked so skinny, to which said it was 'hormones'

Reaction: Dorit said in a confessional: 'Oh, are hormones spelled OZEMPIC?'

Questioned: A producer asked Erika if she was on Ozempic or Wegovy and she denied it

In August, Erika reiterated has again insisted that she never used Ozempic to get thin.

'My answer stands then and it stands now,' Erika said to Extra August 28, which meant she has not touched the weight loss drug, adding that she has always been slim.

'I've always been tiny,' said the star, who has been promoting her Las Vegas show. 'I got bigger during all of my depression and through everything else.'

Erika's depression came from her split from husband Tom Girardi and their massive financial scandal. (Girardi, 84, faces 20 years in prison after he was indicted for fraud.)

Now that she is done with Tom and working more than ever, the weight fell off, she explained.

'There's nothing like putting on a show and a little bit of stress to get you right back into shape,' she said of her Sin City show.

This past summer, she kicked off her Las Vegas residency show Bet It All on Blonde which is at the House of Blues inside Mandalay Bay through December 16.

Erika also talked about her struggles in recent years: 'The last three years have been really tough, and I pulled it together and here it is. I made lemonade out of lemons, man.'

Tears: Erika cried, apologizing to the group if she was vicious to them but that she was 'getting hit from all sides'

Supported: Kyle hugged her and said she was still upset that no one comforted her at the reunion when the stuff about Kathy Hilton came out

Slimmed down: The 52-year-old reality star showed her slimmed down look in August (left). She is pictured right in 2021

Erika shared, 'You have to look at struggles as either one of two things: you're either going to meet it or you're going to run away from it. And I chose to meet it head-on and walk through that fire, and it led me here.'

She added her Las Vegas residency at the House Of Blues at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino - titled Bet It All On Blonde - is about 'fantasy, love, escape, glitz, glamor, and fun - nothing more.'

'Last night was about a rebuild, a rebirth, and a return, truly, to the stage on my own terms,' she said. 'This is my show. It's on my shoulders. It feels good. It's heavy, but it feels good.'

In early August, Erika said during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen that menopause caused her to lose weight.

The reality star appeared slimmed down while appearing on the Bravo talk show wearing a black tank top, matching pants and tall boots.

'Looking like a whisper of herself,' host Andy, 55, said while introducing the cast member of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills.

Andy later told Erika that she looked great and asked about her weight loss.

'Yeah, I lost weight,' Erika said. 'Here's what. Let me just start off by saying, you know, I want to make sure that I don't trigger anybody because we have this conversation in Beverly Hills and we have a cast member with an eating disorder,' referencing Crystal Kung Minkoff, 40, who has openly shared her struggles with bulimia nervosa and body dysmorphia.

On stage: Jayne performs during the grand opening of her Las Vegas residency, Bet It All On Blonde, at House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on August 25

Weight loss: Jayne acknowledged her obvious weight loss and credited it to her 'menopause' on Tuesday's episode of Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen

Slimmed down: The 52-year-old reality star showed her slimmed down look earlier on Thursday in New York City (left). She is pictured right in 2021

'But, yes, I did come down in weight and I did it hormonally,' Erika said.

'Not Ozempic-ally?,' Andy asked referencing the drug Ozempic that is being used for weight loss.

'I was going through menopause,' Erika said. 'So, I took it all down.'

'Who loses weight in menopause?,' cracked fellow guest comedian Jackie Hoffman, 62.

'Me, I went to the doctor and I said get it off. Me,' Erika said.

The US National Institute on Aging in its explanation of menopause notes that it affects each woman uniquely.

'The body begins to use energy differently, fat cells change, and women may gain weight more easily,' the NIA said on its website.

Not Ozempic-ally: 'But, yes, I did come down in weight and I did it hormonally,' Erika said of her weight loss

The host: 'Looking like a whisper of herself,' host Andy Cohen, 55, said while introducing the cast member of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills

Changing face: Erika is seen left on WWHL and right at the RHOBH reunion in 2021

Ozempic has been a hot topic in Hollywood with stars either admitting using the diabetes drug for weight loss or staunchly denying it.

Semaglutide, is sold under the brand names Ozempic and Rybelsus as an antidiabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and under the brand name Wegovy as an anti-obesity medication for long-term weight management.

The drugs act like a hormone in the brain that causes people to feel less hungry and slow the clearing of food from the stomach, which spurs weight loss.

Erika's castmate on RHOBH Kyle Richards, 54, back in February slammed online speculation that she was secretly using Ozempic to lose weight.

Speaking to DailyMail.com about the ongoing rumors about her weight-loss, Kyle admitted that she found it frustrating to see her hard work dismissed as the result a 'cheat drug'.

'When people try to blame my appearance on surgery or Ozempic, which would be completely irresponsible to use when diabetics can't get their hands on it, it's really frustrating to me,' Kyle explained.

She added: 'It bothers me. I'd rather just inspire people with what I'm doing so they can try the same things I've been doing and see what happens to them.'

Working it: Kyle Richards of The Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills, shown earlier this year on Instagram, has denied using Ozempic

Kyle also denied using Ozempic in January during an appearance on Teddi Mellencamp and Tamra Judge's show Two Ts In A Pod.

'A lot of people think I've been taking Ozempic. To clarify I've never taken Ozempic,' Kyle said referencing the diabetes drug.

Kyle at the time also noted that she wasn't using Mounjaro either, a similar diabetes medication being used for weight loss, or 'any of the shots' such as Wegovy or Saxenda.
Kyle Sandilands' ex girlfriend Imogen Anthony has sparked rumours she is expecting her first child with husband Harley Jones.

The model, 32, sent her followers into a frenzy after she shared a photo of what appears to be a burgeoning baby bump.

'Halloween is going to be very different & feel very strange this year lol,' she wrote teasing followers about the upcoming Halloween festivities.

Dressed in a minimalist white top and denim shorts, Imogen gave followers an intimate glimpse of her pronounced midriff.

Imogen then shared footage of her stomach from another angle to her Instagram stories.

Kyle Sandilands' ex girlfriend Imogen Anthony has sparked rumours she is expecting her first child with husband Harley Jones

The model, 32, sent her followers into a frenzy after she shared a photo of what appears to be a burgeoning baby bump. Pictured with Jones

Imogen married Harley in November last year in Las Vegas.

She and her ex-boyfriend Kyle were together for eight years but he never popped the question to the former model.

The media titan announced his shock split from the Big Brother VIP star on The Kyle and Jackie O Show in November 2019.

Imogen then shared footage of her stomach from another angle to her Instagram stories. Imogen did not clarify in the post whether she was indeed pregnant

'We haven't been with each other for quite a few months now. Unfortunately it's run its course,' he said.

Kyle began dating Tegan Kynaston following his split from Imogen and they tied the knot last month.

Kyle and Tegan welcomed son Otto in August and following the birth he declared on his KIIS FM radio show that he and Tegan were in a 'love bubble'.

The couple married in a lavish, multimillion dollar ceremony on April 29 at Swifts, a $60million-plus heritage listed mansion, located in Darling Point, located in Sydney's eastern suburbs.

Imogen previously made headlines when she spoke about the importance of living life on her own terms, before saying she harbours no hard feelings towards anyone.

'My life is about making it a special one, living under zero control of others, doing and being as I please with no ill intent,' she said.

She also seemingly hinted at the lack of appreciation she received from Sandilands during their former relationship, writing: 'It's not my fault if someone didn't know how to treat or appreciate something while they had it.'

Her post concluded with Anthony asking others to 'leave her out' of the situation, stating: 'If someone else is willing to settle, that's on them. I ain't. So leave me out of it.'

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Imogen for comment.
The Bachelor star Brittany Hockley is expanding her property portfolio.

On Tuesday, the 36-year-old reality star and podcaster couldn't wipe the smile off her face after securing a deal on a three-bedroom modern home in the coastal suburb of Miami on the Gold Coast.

She is understood to have splashed out $1.3million on the property.

Brittany was seen meeting with a real estate agent and posing for photos in front of the 'for sale' sign - soon to be replaced with a sold sign.

She was dressed casually in an oversized yellow button-up shirt and ripped denim shorts as she had her photo taken by a friend.

The Bachelor star Brittany Hockley is expanding her property portfolio

On Tuesday, Brittany, 36, secured a deal on a three bedroom modern home on the Gold Coast. The property features an open plan layout with a modern central kitchen that flows through to a covered outdoor entertaining area

The property features an open plan layout with a modern central kitchen which flows through to a covered outdoor entertaining area.

With three well-appointed bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large yard, double car port, shed and shaping bay, the property ticks all the boxes.

The home is the second owned by the podcaster and radio host.

With three well-appointed bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a large yard, double carport, shed and shaping bay, the property ticks all the boxes.

The Miami property was last sold in January 2018 for $739,000.

The purchase comes just two years after her Life Uncut co-host Laura Byrne and her partner Matty Johnson purchased a $1.87million property in Bangalow, which is located in the hinterland of Byron.

Back in 2020, Brittany revealed that she 'took a risk' when she invested in property for the first time at the age of 22.

Brittany was seen meeting with a real estate agent and posing in front of the 'for sale' sign

She was dressed casually in an oversized yellow button-up shirt and ripped denim shorts as she had her photo taken by a friend

'I just worked and saved from a really young age and got lucky with a great property. And no, I wasn't given a cent,' she said at the time.

'Also, having a house isn't indicative of success! Don't stress about this! What is right for one person may not be right for another!'

Brittany recently reflected about her thriving media career during an interview with Daily Mail Australia at the ACRA Awards.

The property is the second owned by the podcaster and radio host. The Miami property was last sold in January 2018 for $739,000

Back in 2020, Brittany revealed that she 'took a risk' when she invested in property for the first time at the age of 22

'We have the podcasting, the radio, the live show tour... It's been a phenomenal month for Life Uncut and The Pickup,' she gushed.

Brittany admitted that even though she was up for an award against her best friend and co-star Laura Bryne, she swears there was no tension between them.

'Laura and I are up against each other, which we're not mad about, because if one of us wins, we both win. And that's, people are going to say, ''as if'', but we mean that.'
Brian Austin Green on Wednesday took to heap criticism on Dancing With the Stars producers and alumni after his fiancee Sharna Burgess was not invited to participate or even attend the show's highly-anticipated tribute to late judge Len Goodman.

'I can't begin to tell you how disappointed I was for @sharnaburgess to not be invited for the tribute last night,' the Beverly Hills, 90210 actor, 50, said Wednesday over the snub to his fiancee, 38, who was a professional dancer on the show spanning 14 seasons.

He added: 'It's disappointing as well that none of her "family in the ballroom" stuck up for her and spoke out.'

Goodman, a regular on the ABC series between 2005 until 2022, died in April at 78 after battling bone cancer, about four months after he retired from his judging post on the ballroom competition.

On Tuesday's episode, co-host Julianne Hough and judge Derek Hough were prominently featured in the segment featuring the tribute to the English dance professional, that aired in the middle of the program.

The latest: Brian Austin Green, 50, on Wednesday took to heap criticism on Dancing With the Stars producers and alumni after his fiancee Sharna Burgess, 38, was not invited to participate or even attend the show's highly-anticipated tribute to late judge Len Goodman

The Beverly Hills, 90210 actor complained about the way his partner - who was a professional dancer on the show spanning 14 seasons - was treated for the special episode

The segment featured a number of the show's alums including Mark Ballas, Maks Chmerkovskiy, Tony Dovolani, Kym Johnson-Herjavec, Karina Smirnoff, Anna Trebunskaya, Edyta Sliwinska and Louis van Amstel.

The professional dancers performed in a routine to Moon River from Henry Mancini put together by Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy, saying it was a favorite of the late judge.

Green said Burgess, who he paired up with in competition on the ABC series in 2021, 'deserved better,' describing her as 'an incredible soul' who 'has always been a friend to everyone.'

Green added in the caption that the Australia-born beauty, who he shares one-year-old son Zane Walker Green with, 'wasnt even invited to sit in the stands and watch' the emotional tribute to the beloved Goodman.

'Shame on that group of people,' he said. 'Kindness is an action, and so is love.'

Green said that Cheryl Burke - who also went public about not being invited back for the episode - 'should have been there as well.'

Burgess put up a post on her Instagram Stories saying that Green has seen her 'be super upset (again) about the show I love,' and that she has restrained herself from speaking out 'about the tribute because of a few reasons.'

She said, 'Firstly I know it's not about me. It's about Len and the honor he deserved. Secondly, this hurt more than not being asked back and I'm working through it.

'Thirdly, sharing feelings on here often gets met with a few negative people who believe I didn't deserve to be there anyway. So why open myself up to it?'

On the episode, the professional dancers performed in a routine to Moon River from Henry Mancini put together by Jenna Johnson and Val Chmerkovskiy, saying it was a favorite of the late judge

Burgess put up a post on her Instagram Stories saying that Green has seen her 'be super upset (again) about the show I love,' and that she has restrained herself from speaking out 'about the tribute because of a few reasons'

Both Green and Burgess, pictured last month in Las Vegas, were vocal about the exclusion

The couple was in good spirits in a post they shared to the social media site last week

Green said that Cheryl Burke - who also went public about not being invited back for the episode - 'should have been there as well.' Pictured last month in Las Vegas

Details: The late Len Goodman was honored on Dancing with the Stars Tuesday. Goodman died in April at 78 after battling bone cancer

The show declared earlier this year that its Mirrorball Trophy would be named The Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy

Burgess said that she 'cried watching' the 'stunning' tribute, saying she shed 'tears of celebration and joy and gratitude for how much Len did for the ballroom and for all of our careers.'

She wrapped up in saying, 'Remember 2 things can be true. I can love and support the show, feel joy for those who were there and also feel sad about me not being there.'

Green is also father to sons Kassius Lijah, 21, with Vanessa Marcil, 55; and Noah, 11, Bodhi, nine, and Journey, seven, with ex-wife Megan Fox, 37.

Green and Burgess went Instagram official in January of 2021 with a pic in which they kissed while on a balcony. They announced their engagement last month.

Green was previously wed to Megan Fox for more than nine years before they revealed their split in May of 2020.
Her older sister Tammy Hembrow is no stranger to headline-making controversy.

And Starlette Thynne took a leaf out of Tammy's playbook Thursday after she suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction during a wild boat party in Sydney Harbour.

Starlette struggled to contain the top half of her skimpy orange swimsuit at the yacht party, sponsored by fashion brand Hello Molly, with it falling down exposing her chest to onlookers.

The model took the fashion faux pas in her stride, laughing while grabbing the top and lifting it back up.

Despite the incident, the Gold Coast influencer looked incredible in her burnt orange monokini, which she paired with a skimpy sarong.

Tammy Hembrow's sister Starlette Thynne, 23, suffered an unfortunate wardrobe malfunction in a bikini on Thursday, while partying on a cruise with other scantily-clad models. Pictured

Starlette wore her blonde, highlighted tresses up with a clip and opted for minimal makeup.

Despite coming from the famous Hembrow family, Starlette is getting noticed on her own merits.

She already boasts an impressive 206,000 followers on Instagram.

Starlette struggled to contain the top half of her skimpy orange swimsuit at the yacht party, sponsored by fashion brand Hello Molly, with it falling down exposing her chest to onlookers

The model took the fashion faux pas in her stride, laughing while grabbing the top and lifting it back up

Despite the incident, The Gold Coast influencer looked incredible in her burnt orange monokini, which she paired with a skimpy sarong

Influencer Leah Perkins also opted for an eye-catching look, wearing a turquoise blue bikini top with crisscross laces.

Leah looked absolutely gorgeous in the bikini and the white sarong, which flaunted her slender, toned figure.

The beauty wore her brunette tresses down and finished her look with a pair of glamorous white-rimmed sunglasses.

Influencer Leah Perkins (pictured) also opted for an eye-catching look, wearing a turquoise blue bikini top with crisscross laces

Leah looked absolutely gorgeous in the bikini and the white sarong, which flaunted her slender, toned figure. She finished her look with a pair of white-rimmed sunglasses

The beauty wore her brunette tresses down and opted for minimal makeup for the boat day

An influencer looked to be enjoying a high-spirited dance alongside a rim of the balcony

Joining the pair on the yacht was former Big Brother Australia's influencer sisters Ariana and Taylor Wilcoxson, who were seen lapping up the sunshine in skimpy bikinis.

Arianna wore her raven tresses down, while Taylor swept her brown hair into a topknot.

The girls are set to star on the new season of Big Brother Australia, with rumours swirling they will win the show as a team.

Big Brother Australia stars Ariana (left) and Taylor Wilcoxson (right) proved to be the lift of the party on the speed boat, with Ariana grabbing at her skimpy top

The sisters nestled in close to each other on the jet car, with Ariana flaunting plenty of underboob

The sisters happily laughed as Ariana sat on Taylor's knee on the jet boat

Taylor (left) and Ariana (right) Wilcoxson, lapped up the sun as they sipped drinks

Big Brother star Taylor showed off her curves in a colourful printed bikini

Another photo showed the scantily-clad sisters enjoying a good laugh over their hijinks

Former Love Island star Amelia Marni also slipped into a skimpy canary yellow crochet bikini.

Amelia looked toned in the swimwear, opting to wear her long wavy brunette tresses down.

The reality TV star looked to be having a great time as she pulled a number of animated faces while jumping onto a smaller vessel.

Former Love Island star Amelia Marni also slipped into a skimpy canary yellow crochet bikini

The reality TV star looked to be having a great time as she pulled a number of animated faces while jumping onto a smaller vessel

The army of glamazons enjoyed a grazing board and a number cocktails while spending the day at Balmoral in Sydney Harbour.

The brand Hello Molly is an online retailer which offers affordable, on-trend essentials for wardrobes.

The retailer has around 100 new releases every week.

Arianna Sunshine was also seen wearing a skimpy burnt orange bikini top and white sarong

Arianna was seen laughing while flipping her brown hair around

Influencer Hannah Perera was seen dancing in a skimpy graphic bikini on the yacht

Bombshell Hannah was later seen chatting with influencer, Sophie Batzloff (right)

Kylie Jenner's BFF Stassie Karanikolaou was guest of honour at the brand's boat party in October last year.

Stassie is known for her friendship with the youngest Kardashian-Jenner sister but has 11 million followers on her own.

The brand celebrated a decade in business in 2022.
Sofia Vergara got a little playful and flirty when promoting her new bodysuit that's part of her upcoming new collection for Walmart after sending a flirty message to Bad Bunny who had complimented her in a song.

On Wednesday, the 51-year-old former Modern Family star, who happens to be newly single following her separation from estranged husband Joe Manganiello after more than seven years of marriage, modeled three different colors on the new piece and posted it on her instagram page.

She asked her 31.7 million instagram fans and followers: '[Which] color is your favorite?'

First up, she struck a simple selfie pose in front of a mirror in a brown version of the bodysuit. Next up, she slipped into a black version in another selfie. And lastly, the Columbian beauty wire a white bodysuit.

The actress and television personality ended the Instagram post by writing, 'The perfect bodysuit from my new Walmart fall collection!! Wear them with jeans, skirts, shorts or alone.'

Her sexy promotional exhibition comes in the wake of her sending a flirty message to Bad Bunny after he complimented her in one of his new songs.

Enviable curves: Sofia Vergara, 51, posed in three different colors of her new bodysuit that will be apart of her new collection through Walmart and asked fan which they prefer

No matter the color, the off-the-shoulder bodysuit hugged her famous curves in all the right ways.

It comes with a long-sleeve design that pulls over a few inches all along her chest, all while also helping showcase her long legs.

In each photo, the Barranquilla, Atlantico, Colombia native has her brown tresses styled long, straight and flowing down towards the middle of her back with a center part.

The America's Got Talent judge has been getting an overwhelming positive response, both from prospective buyers and from admirers.

Academy Award-nominated actress Sharon Stone, 65, was so excited to learn of the new piece that's going to be available that she shared: 'I want them all.'

And then there were people who commented on the post just because they admire her as an actress or her amazing beauty.

'Id buy it just because its you,' one person wrote, which summed up a few of the other posts.

Fellow America's Got Talent judge Howie Mandel, 67, showed off his comedic side by sharing: 'I have a top 3,' along with a fire emoji.

Promo mode: The Modern Family alum suggested her new bodysuit can be worn with jeans, skirts, shorts or along' in her new Instagram post

Smokin" Some celebrities joined in and commented on how amazing Vergara looks in her new bodysuit that will be available through Walmart

Pussycat Dolls leader Nicole Scherzinger raved over how amazing Vergara looked in any of the three colors, gushing, 'Someone lift my jaw from off the floor.'

There was no shortage of people who followed suit and strictly commented on her beauty.

'OMG....A goddess....You're a dream girl....Perfect,' one follower shared, while countless other simply posted fire emojis to signify how hot she looks in her new bodysuit.

Vergara, began her collaboration with Walmart back in 2019 by creating a collection that included items that were all $38 or less, according to People.

The Strays star, 51, who split from Manganiello, 46. earlier this year, was left giddy after Bady Bunny (born Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio), 29, gave her a shoutout on his track Monaco from new album Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Manana.

In the tune, he croons: 'Sofia Vergara es linda, pero es mas linda en persona', which translates in English to 'Sofia Vergara is beautiful, but she is more beautiful in person.'

Vergara quickly took to Instagram to share a clip from the music video captioned: 'Mas lindo eres tu @badbunnypr', which translates to 'You are cuter.'

Her compliment drove fans wild, with followers quipping: 'Lmfaooooooo snatch him from Kendall now!!!!!'

Oh my: Newly-single Sofia Vergara sent a flirty message to Bad Bunny after he complimented her in his new song; she is pictured last month

Fan reaction: Vergara's compliment quickly drove fans wild, with followers quipping: 'Lmfaooooooo snatch him from Kendall now!!!!!'; the pair are seen in May 2023

Another person chimed into the conversation: 'Oh Kendall you are in trouble!' while a third wrote: 'Kendall rn' followed by staring eyes.

While the notoriously private musician still has yet to acknowledge the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star as his girlfriend (refusing to elaborate further about their relationship during a Vanity Fair interview) he has made several vague references to a girl he likes in his music and during the aforementioned interview.

When he spoke to Vanity Fair about how he's been working on improving his English, the Ojitos lindos rapper mentioned that, 'with some people, I speak Englishwith some specific people...With one of them, I couldn't talk to her before.'

Fans speculated that the Cassandro star was referring to Kendall as the girl he could converse with in English  however, Bad Bunny never mentioned her name once in the interview.

Stoking the relationship fuel flames even further, the Narcos: Mexico actor released a song this past week about falling in love with a cowgirl.

Fans are already speculating that the track, Un Preview, is about Kendall.

In the song, the curly haired crooner also raps about how he had 'great sex' with the cowgirl in question.

However, both Kendall and Bad Bunny have yet to publicly confirm their nearly year-long romance.

'Cuter': The Columbian star, who split from husband Joe Manganiello , 46, earlier this year, was left giddy after Kendall Jenner 's rapper beau, 29, gave her a shoutout on his track Monaco from new album Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Manana - and called him 'cute'

Reaction: Fans quickly joked about Vergara stealing Jenner's man

Breakup: The America's Got Talent judge separated from estranged husband Joe Manganiello in July after more seven years of marriage

Hot couple: Bad Bunny and Jenner have been linked since February 2023; the couple, who haven't confirmed their romance publicly, are pictured in May

Manganiello and Vergara, who never had children together, dated about a year before they tied the knot in November 2015.

After just over seven years of marriage, they went public and announced their split in a joint statement shared with Page Six this past July.

'We have made the difficult decision to divorce,' they wrote at the time. 'As two people that love and care for one another very much, we politely ask for respect of our privacy at this time as we navigate this new phase of our lives.'

Days ago the Colombian-born actress stepped out with a male companion for a night out in Beverly Hills.

Her evening with the so-called silver fox  whom Page Six identified as orthopedic surgeon Justin Saliman  was the first time Vergara was seen out publicly with a date since her separation from her estranged husband.
Jada Pinkett Smith has revealed how the dynamics of her marriage with Will Smith changed after he slapped Chris Rock at last year's Oscars.

The pair had secretly separated six years prior to the incident, with Jada, 52, confessing: 'I'm not thinking in a million years he's getting up on stage and it has anything to do with me!'

Speaking to Red magazine, she added: 'That's when your relationship gets deeper than romance or all the c**p that comes with marriage.

'I was just really concerned about Will. And I realised in that moment that, as challenging as our relationship can be, I'm always going to be by his side, no matter what.'

At the 94th Academy Awards, Will strode onto the stage and slapped Chris after the comedian cracked a joke about Jada looking like 'G.I. Jane' because of her bald head when she had recently revealed that was suffering from alopecia.

Struggles: Jada Pinkett Smith has admitted she was 'really concerned' about Will Smith after he slapped Chris Rock at last year's Oscars

While she and Will were living separately at the time, Jada explained that they've always had each other's backs, more so now that they're apart.

She revealed: 'Us pulling at each other to love each other so that we could feel a certain way about ourselves, to then separate and find our emotional independence, to then meet each other in the middle.

'Learning how to show up for ourselves is showing up for the other person. It's been a deep learning process in how to love.'

While Jada has been open about the complexities of their marriage, she revealed that she prefers not to use 'conventional' relationship titles to describe their union.

She explained: 'I try to stay away from conventional terms like "marriage" because people have a very specific idea of it and I'm not in the business of trying to change that.

'I like spending time with me and I like spending time with my family and that's it. I have no desire to do anything else but that.'

The desire not to pursue the conventional came from the early days of their romance, with Jada confessing she was under no illusion that Hollywood wouldn't have an impact on their relationship.

She revealed: 'I wasn't going to go into a marriage in my early 20s, in Tinseltown - Will being one of the most sought-after actors in the world - thinking we were exempt from having to confront inevitable temptations I didn't want to play that game.

'So I was just like, "This is where we have to have a level of friendship; this is where we have to be honest with one another." That friendship has been the core of what's helped us get through some of the most difficult times.'

Ouch: At the 94th Academy Awards, Will strode onto the stage and slapped Chris after the comedian cracked a joke about Jada looking like 'G.I. Jane' because of her bald head

Jada was also focusing on carving out her own career and not being reduced to being called 'Will Smith's wife', a label she found 'annoying'.

In later years the focus has been on finding balance in her personal life and career, with Jada revealing 'I had to get really solid on what my priority was.'

She continued: 'At the end of the day, that was my family. That doesn't fit into what makes a powerful, independent woman? Leave a woman to decide for herself what is important to her.

'It's a lot of personal reconciling that helps us get that balance - recognising that we're not here to be everything to everybody, and that's okay.'

Despite her best efforts though, Jada revealed she feels misunderstood and that's why she felt compelled to write her memoir, Worthy.

While she spent 18 months writing the book, it appears to be performing poorly on some major book bestseller lists.

Jada released the book on October 17, and it managed to nab the number three spot on Amazon's charts for the week of October 22, which lists the Top 20 most sold & most read books of the week.

She finished just behind Britney Spears' even buzzier memoir The Woman In Me and David Grann's Killers Of The Flower Moon, which returned to the top of the charts thanks to interest in Martin Scorsese's Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Nirostarring film of the same name.

But on Amazon's main bestsellers list, Worthy had plummeted to just number 81 as of Tuesday, according to Newsweek.

By Wednesday evening it had dropped three more spots to number 84.

Notably, the main bestsellers chart only tracks sales, whereas Jada's book placed in the top three on the online retailers charts that track both sales and the number of Kindle readers and Audible listeners working through the book, suggesting that more people were interested in her memoir than were willing to shell out for a copy they could own.

The December issue of Red is now on sale now.
The New Zealand version of The Project has been cancelled after six years on the air.

The nightly current affairs show, based on the Australian series of the same name, first premiered on the Three network in February 2017.

The news program will wrap up by the end of 2023, production company Warner Bros. Discovery announced on Thursday.

'We have commenced consultation to discontinue The Project on Three from the end of the year,' a spokesperson said.

'Our primary focus is to support our people as we work through this process.'

The New Zealand version of The Project has been cancelled after six years on the air. (Pictured: hosts Jesse Mulligan, Kanoa Lloyd and Jeremy Corbett)

The move will see about 24 job losses in total from the network's Three HQ, based in the North Island city of Auckland.

The Project New Zealand will not air on Thursday to allow staff to digest the news, reports the New Zealand Herald.

Three pays a hefty licensing fee to use The Project brand created by Roving Enterprises, the production company owned by Rove McManus.

The cancellation will free up funds for a cheaper news show without an expensive, foreign-owned licence.

'We have commenced consultation to discontinue The Project on Three from the end of the year,' a Warner Bros. Discovery spokesperson said. (Pictured: Mulligan and Lloyd)

The Project New Zealand is hosted by Jesse Mulligan and Kanoa Lloyd, along with a rotating panel of guest presenters.

The New Zealand television industry has faced numerous cutbacks this year, as challenging economic conditions hit the media.

The Australian version of The Project has been the subject of cancellation rumours for years due to its declining ratings.

However, at its Upfronts presentation earlier this week, Channel Ten committed to another year of screening the show.

The Australian version of The Project has been the subject of cancellation rumours for years due to its declining ratings. (Pictured are hosts Waleed Aly and Sarah Harris)

While the program is safe - for now - there are still rumours it could be bumped to a later timeslot to make way for a rebooted Deal or No Deal, hosted by Grant Denyer.

Once Ten's flagship news show, The Project has been on a downward trend for years.

Ratings have steadily fallen from 2022 to 2023, shedding one third of its national audience over the last 18 months.

A year ago, The Project lost most of its star power with the departure of long-serving hosts Carrie Bickmore, Peter Helliar and Lisa Wilkinson.
Charlize Theron put on an animated display as she led the arrivals at the Hollywood Reporter Beauty Dinner at Holloway House in West Hollywood on Wednesday.

The Bombshell actress, 48, looked as stylish as ever as she joined the likes of Kelly Rowland and Janelle Monae at the glamorous bash.

Charlize teased her black lace bralet in a semi-sheer blouse, which she styled with a black tie with chic white piping and a leather A-line skirt.

The screen star completed her look with a pair of grey socks and strappy heels, while accessorising with a pair of of pearl drop earrings.

Charlize was in great spirits on the great as she was pictured throwing her head back and laughing while posing for photos.

Chic! Charlize Theron put on an animated display as she led the arrivals at the Hollywood Reporter Beauty Dinner at Holloway House in West Hollywood on Wednesday

Having a giggle: The Bombshell actress, 48, looked as stylish as ever as she joined the likes of Kelly Rowland and Janelle Monae at the glamorous bash

She was snapped cosying up to hairstylist Adir Abergel for the cameras, as the two pals held hands and he wrapped his around around her.

Meanwhile, Kelly, 42, flashed some serious skin in her daring dress, which featured a cut out section right up the side, revealing her toned leg and midriff.

The arty dress was held together with silver wiring and teamed with a black turban and a pair of statement beaded earrings.

At the event, which was presented by Instagram and sponsored by Upneeq, Kelly was spotted posing with make-up artist Sheika Daley.

Janelle Monae put on a show-stopping display in a statement red mini dress, which flaunted her toned pins as she posed at the event.

The mini featured huge puff sleeves and was teamed with a pair of barely-there strappy heels.

She wore her braids piled up on top of her head, while leaving some strands to frame her pretty features. Accessorising with gold earrings and a clutch.

The beauty dinner and issue spotlights the hair, makeup and nail artists who keep the stars looking their absolute best.

Looking good: Charlize teased her black lace bralet in a semi-sheer blouse, which she styled with a black tie with chic white piping and a leather A-line skirt

Smouldering: Meanwhile, Kelly, 42, flashed some serious skin in her daring dress, which featured a cut out section right up the side, revealing her toned leg and midriff

Pose! At the event, which was presented by Instagram and sponsored by Upneeq, Kelly was spotted posing with make-up artist Sheika Daley

Drama: Janelle Monae put on a show-stopping display in a statement red mini dress, which flaunted her toned pins as she posed at the event

Smile: The arty dress was held together with silver wiring and teamed with a black turban and a pair of statement beaded earrings

Glitzy: Kathryn Newton dazzled in a plunging red sequin dress

At the event, the celebrities posed alongside their own hair and make-up stylists as they were honoured at the stylish event.

During her last public appearance, Charlize was joined by her daughter Jackson, 11, to the Dior show during Paris Fashion Week in September.

They sat next to billionaire Bernard Arnault, the CEO of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury goods company.

Charlize, who also has eight-year-old daughter August who was not seen, cut a glamorous figure in a sparkly sheer gold beaded skirt and white shirt.

And her child was nicely dressed in red, black and white plaid button jacket with pockets and a crisp white shirt underneath. She added a plaid pleated skirt.

This comes after the Monster's Ball star revealed to People that Jackson doesn't want to hug her anymore.

'My oldest just went to middle school and it was literally, it was so sad. I was like, 'Where's my baby?' the South African born beauty joked.

She revealed that Jackson pleaded, 'Mom, please don't look, mom, don't hug me,' [and] I was like, "Can I hug you?" She's like, "No, no."'

Quickly humbled, the Academy Award winning star quipped, 'Oh my God. It's like a whole different game.'

Chatting: Charlize was spotted in conversation over the dinner table

Catching up: Kelly was chatting away to another guest over dinner

Glam: Make-up artists Misha Shahzada and Amy Komorowski were in attendance

Family time: During her last public appearance, Charlize was joined by her daughter Jackson, 11, to the Dior show during Paris Fashion Week in September

Cosy: She was snapped cosying up to hairstylist Adir Abergel for the cameras, as the two pals held hands and he wrapped his around around her

Wow: Celebrity nail manicurist Tom Bachik put on a cosy display with Charlize

Squad: Kathryn posed for a snap with hair stylist Renato Campora

Hugging it out: Charlize and Adir appeared the closest of pals

Arrivals: Cassie was in attendance along with make-up artist Ash K Holm

Glowing: Kathryn looked radiant on the night

Shook! Janelle put on a playful display as she posed with Nikki Nelms and Keita Moore
Jack Black delighted fans as he performed an impromptu strip tease at The Give Back-ular Spectacular! fundraiser in Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The one-off variety show featured a host of stars as they helped raise emergency relief funds for both union and non-union crew members who are suffering financial difficulties as a result of the Hollywood strikes.

Among those taking to the stage were Rachel Bloom, Bryan Cranston, Lily Tomlin, and Jeremy Allen White.

Yet it was Jack who stole the show as the actor, 54, stripped to his underwear on stage at The Orpheum Theatre while belting out Taylor Swift's Anti-Hero.

The performer has been a fixture on SAG-AFTRA's picket lines ever since the strike action commenced this past July.

Crikey: Jack Black delighted fans as he performed an impromptu strip tease at The Give Back-ular Spectacular! fundraiser in Los Angeles on Wednesday

Support: The one-off variety show featured a host of stars as they helped raise emergency relief funds for both union and non-union crew members during the Hollywood strikes

He made sure to give his all at the fundraiser, performing a standup set before ripping off his clothes and heading into the audience to chat with the crowd.

Jack then asked for 'any requests' and after a fan asked for Taylor, he happily obliged, saying 'I know that one! Everyone knows that f***ing song', before dancing around the stage and singing along.

SAG-AFTRA's negotiations sputtered this week, with the longest strike in their history hitting the 100-day mark Saturday after talks broke off with studios.

'Today, the CEOs came back to the table,' SAG-AFTRA told members in an email after negotiations had wrapped for the day on Tuesday. 'We are scheduled to continue talks with them tomorrow,' it continued, as Deadline reported.

The Guild's TV/Theatrical Negotiating Committee added: 'We will continue to provide updates with you directly. Remember  don't believe anything you read in the press unless it comes directly from us. Keep showing up on the picket lines and make your voices heard around the country.

Then studios abruptly ended discussions October 11, saying the actors' demands were expensive and the two sides were too far apart to continue.

The actors are in unscripted territory. Their union has never been on a strike this long, nor been on strike at all since before many of its members were born.

Last month, members of Hollywood's writers union celebrated a new deal with a five percent pay bump, streaming bonuses and protection against AI as they return to work.

The governing boards of the eastern and western branches of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) both voted to accept a new deal, and afterward declared that the strike would be over and writers would be free to work.

The three-year agreement includes significant wins in the main areas writers had fought for, compensation, length of employment, size of staffs and control over the use of artificial intelligence.

The writers are now being encouraged to walk in solidarity with actors.

Loving life: Jack stole the show as the actor, 54, stripped to his underwear on stage at The Orpheum Theatre while belting out Taylor Swift's Anti-Hero

Jack has been on strike with his fellow actors but still has several projects lined up for the future.

He is currently preparing for the release of the upcoming Christmas comedy Dear Santa, which follows a young boy who accidentally sends his annual Christmas letter to Satan, as opposed to Santa Claus.

The Kung Fu Panda franchise star will star alongside performers such as Keegan-Michael Key, Brianne Howey and Post Malone in the upcoming movie.

The project will see Jack reunite with producers Bobby and Peter Farrelly, who co-wrote the script alongside director Ricky Blitt.

The actor and the filmmaking duo collaborated on the 2001 romantic comedy feature Shallow Hal.

Dear Santa currently does not have a scheduled release date.
Whovians can finally mark their calendars as the Doctor Who return date for the show's 60th anniversary has been confirmed.

With David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor and Catherine Tate reprising her role as Donna Noble, the popular duo will make their return to mark the anniversary with three special episodes running each Saturday from November 25.

The specials will be The Star Beast, where the Doctor and Donna come face-to-face after years apart.

This will be followed by Wild Blue Yonder on December 2 and The Giggle on December 8.

Joining David Tennant and Catherine Tate is a stellar cast including Yasmin Finney as Rose Noble, Miriam Margolyes as the voice of the Meep and Jacqueline King as Sylvia Noble.

It's back: Whovians can finally mark their calendars as the Doctor Who return date for the show's 60th anniversary has been confirmed

Return: David Tennant and Catherine Tate will make their return to mark the anniversary with three special episodes running each Saturday from November 25

Joining them are Karl Collins as Shaun Temple, Ruth Madeley as Shirley Anne-Bingham, Jemma Redgrave as Kate Stewart and Neil Patrick Harris as the Toymaker.

It comes after the show released the latest trailer for the anniversary specials last month.

Viewers branded the footage 'insane' as Donna Noble makes her dramatic return to the franchise alongside Kate Lethbridge-Stewart (Jemma Redgrave).

Fans were left 'heartbroken' when The Doctor revealed he may not be able to save his lovable companion's 'life this time', meaning Donna could be killed off in the upcoming episodes.

The brand new trailer also confirmed Neil Patrick-Harris' villain is none other than The Doctor's former foe The Toymaker, last seen on the show in 1966.

Donna can be seen having her memories returned to her as she and the Doctor come face to face with The Toymaker as he causes havoc on earth.

The trailer also teased other villains that would feature in the specials, with one so scary it led The Doctor's spaceship the TARDIS to 'run away'.

However Donna, who last appeared in the series in 2007, was her usual outspoken and fearless self and declared 'Let's kick it's a***!'.

Drama: Viewers branded the latest trailer for the specials 'insane' as Donna makes her dramatic return to the franchise (David Tennant pictured)

Back with a bang! Doctor Who released its latest trailer for the 60th Anniversary Specials last month, and fans could face more heartache as Donna Noble's life hangs in the balance once again (Catherine Tate pictured)

Scary: The trailer also confirmed Neil Patrick-Harris' villain is none other than The Doctor's former foe The Toymaker, last seen on the show in 1966

There was also footage of Heartstopper's Yasmin Finney alongside previously announced alien Beep The Meep

As well as glimpse at new Doctor Ncuti Gatwa in the role, with the star popping up at the very end of the clip.

Meanwhile fans couldn't help but marvel at the incredible special effects - after BBC signed a big money deal with Disney Plus - as the earth's military organisation UNIT now based in a Avenger's style tower in the heart of London.
Georgia Harrison has revealed the one relationship she has had since her revenge porn ordeal ended with him telling her nobody wants her because of the sex tape.

The reality personality, 28, said the new relationship originally helped to rebuild her trust, before it came crashing own again due to his cruel words during the break-up.

The revenge porn tape was posted on OnlyFans by Georgia's ex-boyfriend Stephen Bear, 33, who is currently serving a 21 month prison sentence after being found guilty of voyeurism and two counts of disclosing private, sexual photos and films.

Speaking on Elizabeth Day's How to Fail podcast, Georgia said she has had difficulties trusting people and has had only one relationship since.

However the new romance ended in heartbreak when Georgia's ex-boyfriend played on her biggest insecurity and told her nobody would want to be with her after the invasive video was posted online for the world to see.

Heartbreaking: Georgia Harrison has revealed the one relationship she has had since her revenge porn ordeal ended with him telling her nobody wants her because of the sex tape

Convict: The revenge porn tape was posted on OnlyFans by Georgia's ex-boyfriend Stephen Bear, 33, who is currently serving a 21 month prison sentence after being found guilty of voyeurism and two counts of disclosing private, sexual photos and films

She said: 'It's been really hard. I did have one relationship since it happening, which in a way was like a big, big support to me.'

Georgia did reveal last year that she was in a new relationship, however she has never named him because he is not someone in the public eye.

She continued: 'At the end of our relationship one of the things he said when we were splitting up was "Who would be with you anyway, you've been all over the internet".

'And I think that was really, really hard for me to hear, like firstly from someone who'd made me rebuild my trust, but secondly that's like my biggest fear, that men are now going to be concerned about being with me in the future because this is something that could arise, especially if you go on to have a family with me.

'It's something that could come up in the future with our children. It does worry me that people don't value me the same because of it.

'And comments like that just sent me like really....I cried in my bed for two days.'

Asked if she has trust issues now, she said: 'I think so.'

Georgia, who released a book Taking Back My Power this week, said she's in a good place, but revealed how after Bear publicly posted his secretly filmed footage of them having sex she had a panic attack when someone filmed a parking dispute.

Campaign: Georgia has been calling for better online protections for people and pushing for the Online Safety Bill

The ex TOWIE star, who has been calling for better online protections for people and pushing for the Online Safety Bill, explained she was 'triggered' during the dispute after an American started filming it, because of the nightmare she experienced when Bear shared the video from his home CCTV online.

Georgia said: 'I was in LA after this happened and it was such a silly thing, but we came back to get in our car and our car had been blocked in, me and the girls.

'We were basically arguing with the guy to move his car, they were anyway. It was getting a bit of an intense heated argument and then he started filming us, and I really was triggered.

'I had close to a panic attack and I really, really just became overwhelmed with emotion, I was crying, I couldn't catch my breath. I had to really be calmed down. I was a bit embarrassed about how I completely lost my shit.

'It wasn't until I got home and I processed what happened that I realised that because the guy had filmed me without my permission it really triggered a very overwhelming response with me.

Candid: Speaking on Elizabeth Day's How to Fail podcast, Georgia said she has had difficulties trusting people and has had only one relationship since (pictured recently)

'But I can be on a television camera and be fine, but there's obviously something inside of me where if someone films me where I don't feel like they should be, it causes a really intense emotional reaction within my nervous system, something that I couldn't even control.'

But she said that despite the hell that she has been through, including blaming herself, and losing many of her fashion and work contracts, the ordeal and also losing a close friend, has left her now feeling a sense of compassion towards Bear.

She said: 'Anything like that in life gives you such a strong feeling of compassion for other individuals.'

Asked if she has compassion for Bear, she said: 'Yeah, I do. I think he's a really, really lost soul and I think his family should have got him help a long time ago, and he wouldn't be where he is now if they took the relevant steps to take him to his GP and take him quite frankly to a mental institution.'

Asked if she fears his release, Georgia, who has moved back to the flat in Loughton, Essex, where they both used to live, said: 'For the first time in a long time I walk down the street without any fear.

'It's not that I ever feared he would attack me, I would just fear his presence in general - like him driving past and having to see him.

'But I don't fear that he would try and do anything to hurt me in general. If anything I think I just fear for his own mental health and safety.

'I don't know what he's going to do with his life now because he's just gone so far beyond helping.'

Georgia and Bear got to know each other through the reality television and influencer circuits, and then started a relationship.

But they broke up and hadn't spoken for a year when she met up with him after an invite 'for a cup of tea' and it ended up with them having lunch and then having sex.

Three months later he posted footage of their intercourse on OnlyFans before it went viral on the internet.
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's new waxwork figure has been unveiled after the original was met with claims of 'whitewashing'.

The actor, 51, took to social media on Monday to reveal he would be contacting The Musee Grevin in Paris after the figure was revealed earlier his month.

Dwayne told his Instagram followers he was asking the museum for 'improvements', starting with 'updating my skin colour' following backlash from fans.

Californian-born Johnson is of dual heritage, as his father was a black Canadian and his mother is Samoan.

The Grevin Museum has now unveiled the updated figure, which is open to the public. The Rock is yet to comment on the changes.

New look: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's new waxwork figure (left) has been unveiled after the original (right) was met with claims of 'whitewashing'

Changes: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson asked for 'important changes' to be made after a lifesized waxwork of himself was unveiled by a French waxwork museum

Museum director Yves Delhommeau told AFP that his staff were working 'all night' to ensure the waxwork was in line with 'fans' expectations'.

He said that the appearance of the skin tone had been down to a 'lighting issue'.

Taking to Instagram after the original figure was unveiled, Dwayne reposted a video by social media comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr, who sarcastically hit out at the waxwork.

The jokester, who spoke over a snapshot of the rebuked figure, said: 'That's how Paris think he look. They turned The Rock into a pebble. It look like The Rock ain't never seen the sun a day in his life. Whoever the artist is, don't need to do no type of art.'

Johnson, who appeared to be amused by the comedian's commentary, posted the video and accompanied it with a caption to share his own thoughts on his waxwork.

The Jumanji star wrote: 'I knew my boy @jamesjeffersonj had this Rock wax statue in his roasting crosshairs. Legit belly laughed at this.

'For the record, I'm going to have my team reach out to our friends at Grevin Museum, in Paris France so we can work at "updating" my wax figure here with some important details and improvements - starting with my skin color.'

He concluded, 'And next time I'm in Paris, I'll stop in and have a drink with myself,' adding a wink emoji.

The post, which has received nearly 250,000 likes, saw fans express both their disappointment and confusion at the waxwork.

One fan wrote, 'Looks awful. No character to it at all,' while another said, 'They made The Rock look more like The Sourdough Loaf.'

He's back: Museum director Yves Delhommeau said his staff had worked 'all night' to update the figure (pictured)

Hitting out: Dwayne and his fans have commented on the waxwork's seemingly lighter skin tone, with the star telling how he will be asking for the skin color to be 'updated'

Berated: The Rock reposted a video by social media comedian James Andre Jefferson Jr, who sarcastically berated the artists' work (Pictured: plastic artist Stephan Barret, right, in 2023)

The Rock's review: The Rock broke his silence yesterday in an Instagram post to poke fun at his wax figure, but added that he seeks to reach out to the museum to have the artwork 'updated' with some 'important details and improvements'

Backlash: Fans expressed shock, disappointment and confusion at the striking difference between Johnson and his wax figure counterpart on Instagram

A bemused fan also wrote, 'That's not The Rock, that's The Glacier,' while another commented, 'He look like Vin Diesel's son.'

One unimpressed commenter said, 'Definitely not his complexion,' while another asked, 'Where's the melanin?'

A bemused The Rock fan said, 'It gotta sit in the sun for a bit,' while another wrote, 'Nahhhhh they wrong for this Mess!!!'

A final perplexed commenter wrote, 'So y'all are just gonna leave out The Rock's whole skin tone?? Did yall not look at a pic or anything?? A video?? Ask someone of color their opinion?'

The sculptor behind the wax work, Stephane Barret, stated on The Musee Grevin website that he relied on only photographs to perfect The Rock's look.

He said: 'What was a little harder for me was the sample photo that was chosen, where he just had a very slight smile on his face, an expression that's quite difficult to achieve. It was very subtle.

'We worked on his face and eyes several times, because the most complicated thing about realism is getting the statue to come alive from the visitors' perspective.'

In addition, Dwayne's tattoos took the painters ten days of work.
A new trailer was released for Thea Sharrocks's epic mystery comedy Wicked Little Letters on Thursday.

The Crown's Olivia Colman, 49, takes a starring role as Edith Swan - a deeply conservative woman who is quick to point the finger in her community's mystery.

Olivia will star alongside Jessie Buckley in the forthcoming film, with the actress, 33, expected to play Rose Gooding - the fiery younger woman wrongly accused of drafting a spate of hateful letters to various members of the community.

The new Film 4 release, which is set to hit UK screens on February 23, 2024, is set around a 1920s English seaside Sussex town.

The two-and-a-half-minute teaser gives fans a hint at the show's outrageous language and playful humour.

New release: A new trailer was released for Thea Sharrocks's epic mystery comedy Wicked Little Letters on Thursday. The Crown's Olivia Colman, 49, takes a starring role as Edith Swan

Spinster: Olivia will star alongside Jessie Buckley, (pictured) in the forthcoming film, with the Irish actress, 33, expected to play Rose Gooding

The new trailer shows Edith and Jessie suited and booted in classic 1920s dress as members of the community run around the town setting traps and conspiring about who the menace of the village really is.

It follows two neighbours: conservative local Edith and rowdy Irish migrant Rose.

When Edith and her fellow residents begin to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, foul-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime.

The anonymous letters prompt a national uproar, and a trial ensues.

However, as the town's women - led by Police Officer Gladys Moss (Anjana Vasan) - begin to investigate the crime themselves, they suspect something is amiss, and Rose may not be the culprit.

While the film is expected to be a smash hit, the shocking real-life story behind the highly-anticipated film and the trials continue to mystify true crime fans today.

Filming of Wicked Little Letters is currently taking place around Arundel and Worthing, which doubles for Littlehampton, where the bizarre incident occurred almost a century ago.

Those familiar with the notorious case will know that Edith, a respected member of the community, was eventually exposed as the poison pen author, charged with criminal libel and ultimately tried at Lewes magistrates court in 2021.

Hilarious: The new release is set to hit UK screens on February 23, 2024. The two-and-a-half-minute teaser gives fans a hint at the show's outrageous language and playful humour

Mystery: The new trailer shows Edith and Jessie suited and booted in classic 1920s dress as members of the community run around the town setting traps for a wicked mystery penman

Foul: When Edith and her fellow residents begin to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, foul-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime

Suspicious: However, as the town's women - led by Police Officer Gladys Moss (Anjana Vasan) - begin to investigate the crime themselves, they suspect Rose may not be the culprit

Playful: While the film is expected to be a smash hit, the shocking real-life story behind the highly-anticipated film and the trials continue to mystify true crime fans today

The new film is understood to be a lighthearted take on the case, with neighbours joining forces to solve the mystery after the finger of blame is incorrectly pointed at the Gooding.

On two occasions, she would be sent to prison for crimes of which she was totally innocent, and the case would involve four trials in all  each reported unsparingly by the national press and enthralling the nation.

Edith was eventually deemed to be responsible for drafting the obscene letters, but the judge who presided over her case refused to accept the evidence, convinced that Eshe was the kind of Englishwoman incapable of swearing, and found her innocent of the crimes.

In the years since there has been speculation that she was suffering from some kind of mental illness.

As many as 80 crew members are thought to be working on location in West Sussex, with Blueprint Pictures - the production company responsible for developing the film - donating to the local council after roads were forced to close while they filmed scenes.

Timothy Spall, Hugh Skinner and Joanna Scanlan have also been cast in unconfirmed roles.

Sussex: Filming takes place around Arundel and Worthing, which doubles for Littlehampton, where the bizarre incident occurred almost a century ago
Vincent Cassel looked loved-up with his new girlfriend Narah Baptista while enjoying a dinner al-fresco to celebrate her 27th birthday on Tuesday.

The French actor, 56, and his new Brazilian girlfriend arrived arm-in-arm at the popular Bolognese restaurant in Rome.

He looked typically stylish in a beige jacket and matching wide-leg trousers, teamed with a black polo top.

Meanwhile, Narah put on a glamorous display in a plunging black midi dress, teamed with a matching trench coat.

The pair looked smitten and couldn't stop smiling while chatting and enjoying the meal.

Smitten: Vincent Cassel looked loved-up with his new girlfriend Narah Baptista while enjoying a dinner al-fresco to celebrate her 27th birthday on Tuesday

Sweet: The pair looked smitten and couldn't stop smiling while chatting and enjoying the meal

It comes after Vincent appeared to confirm his relationship with Brazilian model Narah as they packed on the PDA during a trip to the beach in Rio de Janeiro last week.

The actor has been making the most of his sun-soaked trip and recently gushed about his happiness just six months after reportedly splitting from wife of five-years Tina Kunakey, 26.

Vincent beamed as he strolled along the sand before taking a dip in the sea with his new lady wrapping her arms around him and planting a kiss on his cheek.

Narah flaunted her jaw-dropping figure in a skimpy brown bikini while Vincent showed off his buff physique in green swimming trunks.

The pair appeared to be having a wonderful time as they chatted and shared a giggle while topping up their tans.

Taking to Instagram Vincent has shared numerous snaps and videos from his trip including a selfie which he captioned: 'Just wanted to be happy... I am'.

While Narah replied: 'Amor' which is Italian for love.

Vincent and wife Tina, who welcomed a daughter, Amazonie, in April 2019, are believed to have separated after he deleted all traces of her from his social media.

A source has also now told DailyMail.com exclusively that the couple is headed for divorce, saying: 'They separated weeks ago. Tina is heartbroken.'

In April French actor Vincent abruptly deleted all images of Tina amid furious speculation that the pair had split after five years of marriage.

Loved-up: The French actor, 56, and his new Brazilian girlfriend arrived arm-in-arm at the popular Bolognese restaurant in Rome

Looking good: He looked typically stylish in a beige jacket and matching wide-leg trousers, teamed with a black polo top.

Incredible: Meanwhile, Narah put on a glamorous display in a plunging black midi dress, teamed with a matching trench coat

Gorgeous: Narah's brunette locks were styled in braids and she accessorised with gold drop earrings

Holiday: It comes after Vincent appeared to confirm his relationship with Brazilian model Narah as they packed on the PDA during a trip to the beach in Rio de Janeiro last week

Vincent - who is best known for his roles in Ocean's Twelve and Black Swan - tied the knot with Tina in 2018, two years after they were first linked, and they welcomed a daughter, Amazonie, in April 2019.

However, a source has now told DailyMail.com exclusively that the couple is headed for divorce, saying: 'They separated weeks ago. Tina is heartbroken.'

While representatives for Vincent and Tina did not respond to requests for comment, the actor's social media accounts speak volumes about the pair's relationship - with the on-screen star removing all traces of his wife from his Instagram account in recent days.

Loved up pictures of the duo, which previously littered Vincent's account, have all vanished without a trace.

What's more, Vincent failed to post anything marking Tina's birthday - despite the model re-posting multiple well wishes from her friends on her own account.

The last time the actor liked one of his wife's stunning Instagram images was on February 17 - while Tina has failed to share any photos of herself with Vincent in weeks, prompting several of her followers to question: 'Where is your husband?'

Neither Tina or Vincent have publicly addressed the mounting speculation among their followers about the status of their marriage - however both have continued sharing regular work updates to their accounts in the past few weeks.

While Tina has shared several images from photoshoots, Vincent has been touting two new movies, The Three Musketeers: D'Artagnan, and Liaison, an Apple TV+ film he features in alongside fellow French superstar Eva Green.

Holidays: He has been sharing a glimpse of his idyllic trip with followers

Happy: Taking to Instagram Vincent has shared numerous snaps and videos from his trip including a selfie which he captioned: 'Just wanted to be happy... I am' - while Narah replied: 'Amor' which is Italian for love

Love: Vincent - who is best known for his roles in Ocean's Twelve and Black Swan - tied the knot with Tina in 2018, two years after they were first linked, and they welcomed a daughter, Amazonie, in April 2019

Vincent has shared several images of himself with Eva, 42, whom he praised as a 'wonderful co-star'.

And while he failed to post anything about Tina's birthday, the actor did share a tribute to his 18-year-old daughter Deva, whom he shares with his first wife, Monica Bellucci.

Vincent and Monica, 53, wed in 1999 after meeting on the set of their 1996 movie, The Apartment.

The couple welcomed two daughters - Deva and Leonie, 12 - before divorcing in 2013 after 14 years of marriage.

In 2016, Vincent then went 'Instagram Official,' with Tina, who was just 19 at the time, and their relationship sparked headlines the world over as a result of their 30-year age gap.
The Great British Sewing Bee will see a major hosting shake-up as Sara Pascoe left the show after welcoming her second child.

The comedian, 42, has hosted the BBC show for the past two series since 2021.

On Wednesday it was announced via the show's official Twitter page that Sara would not appear on the next series and the Christmas special after giving birth.

Actor Kiell Smith-Bynoe, who recently appeared on the show as a celebrity guest, will be taking up the reins, the show confirmed.

Announcing the news on Twitter alongside a snap of the host and his co-star judges, Patrick Grant and Esme Young, the official Sewing Bee account wrote: 'We're bursting at the seams that Kiell Smith-Bynoe has stepped in to host this years Christmas Special and Series 10.

Shake-up: The Great British Sewing Bee has announced a major hosting shake-up

Happy news! Host Sara Pascoe has left the show after welcoming her second child

'(Sending lots of love to Sara and her new baby!)'

Sara has presented the show since 2021. It was previously led by comedian Joe Lycett and Strictly's Claudia Winkleman.

Ghosts actor Kiell, 34, has appeared in Stath Lets Flats, Man Like Mobeen and Enterprice - as well as competing on Taskmaster, The Weakest Link, and Richard Osman's House Of Games.

And fans were clearly thrilled at the appointment, as one took to Twitter to say: 'This will be magic,' while another added: 'Excellent news!'

A third said: 'Wonderful! I love Sara, but Keill will be a brilliant stand-in.'

Sara revealed the news earlier this year that she was pregnant after experiencing fertility issues while trying for a baby.

The TV presenter revealed she was expecting again with her husband Steen Raskopoulos earlier this year in May.

Congratulations! The account's tweet, read: 'Sending lots of love to Sara and her new baby!', while confirming that Kiell Smith-Bynoe would step in to host the Christmas Special

New face: Ghosts actor Kiell, 34, has appeared in Stath Lets Flats, Man Like Mobeen and Enterprice

Baby joy! Sara Pascoe, 42, has become a mother for the second time, it was announced on the BBC show's official Twitter page

She revealed the happy news on Instagram, sharing a snap in which she showcased her growing baby bump in a rainbow coloured knitted dress.

Her husband Steen delightedly beamed alongside her while holding a beer next to her stomach.

Captioning her post, Sara penned: 'Here we go again. Eating for two and drinking for no one.'

The couple are already parents to a son, who they welcomed in February 2020 through IVF.

Sara looked overjoyed in her post as she flashed a dazzling smile while snapping a bathroom selfie on her phone.

And a host of the Out Of Her Mind star's showbiz pals were quick to share their joy and elation at her baby news.

Duncan James wrote: 'Awww massive congrats to u both xixixi.'

Ellie Jane Taylor penned: 'Ah congrats dolly!! (And what a great frock!!).'

While Harry Style's sister Gemma simply put: 'Yay!'

Delighted: A host of the Out Of Her Mind star's showbiz pals were quick to share their joy and elation at her baby news

Sweet: The couple are already parents to a son, who they welcomed in February 2020 through IVF

In April, Sara opened up on her fertility issues impacting her stand-up comedy and her fear of turning down work after her baby was born.

Before giving birth, she had struggled to conceive and centered a lot of her comedy around being infertile.

After having her baby, she then changed her material to reflect being a mother, admitting to being 'complex'.

Speaking to the Radio Times, Sara explained: 'As human beings, we're all inconsistent. Something can be true at one point in your life or career, but not true later on.

'When I did Out of Her Mind [the BBC2 sitcom in 2020], I was at a stage of my life where I'd got my head around the fact that I was infertile and I really leant into that in the show.

'Then a year later, I had a baby [via IVF]. People who felt close to my narrative said, 'Who are you, then?' And it was like, 'Sorry, people are really complex!'

'When I was infertile, I was really defensive and now I'm a mummy, I do mum jokes. I'm an over-sharer  I'm comfortable with it, and with the discussion that comes after.'

Impact: Last month, Sara opened up on her fertility issues impacting her stand-up comedy and her fear of turning down work after her baby was born

'Tough': Sara described how failing to conceive had a negative impact on her, exacerbated by the ease in which other couples around her fell pregnant.

She also spoke about her worries concerning work, feeling as though she had to continue working very soon after giving birth to ensure she didn't miss out on future opportunities.

Sara said: 'The advantage of having some money in the bank is that you don't have to take a job to pay next month's rent. But the fear is  if I don't say 'Yes' to a job now, what if they don't ask me again?

'I did QI when the baby was five weeks old. My agent had said, 'Don't you want a bit more time? Because you're swollen, mad and leaky.' I was afraid that if I missed it, they wouldn't ask me next year.'
Sting and his wife Trudie Styler put on a loved-up display as they attended the premiere of her film Posso Entrare - An Ode To Naples on Wednesday.

The event was held at the National Archaeological Museum in London, with the documentary exploring the lives of ordinary residents of the Italian city.

Trudie, 69, cut a glamorous figure for the evening as she donned a bright red dress with a low-cut neckline.

The garment also featured short sleeves while Trudie added height to her frame with a pair of black heels.

Letting her blonde locks fall loose down her shoulders, Trudie completed her look with a silver necklace and matching earrings.

Couple: Sting and his wife Trudie Styler put on a loved-up display as they attended the premiere of her film Posso Entrare - An Ode To Naples on Wednesday

Premiere: The event was held at the National Archaeological Museum in London, with the documentary exploring the lives of ordinary residents of the Italian city

Sting, 72, opted for a casual look for the evening as he sported a black turtle-neck jumper and matcjing skinny jeans.

Sting and Trudie have been married since 1992 and are parents to Mickey, 39, Jake, 38, Eliot, 32, and Giacomo, 27.

Mickey is an actress who has appeared in films including Frances Ha and Now Is Everything while Eliot is a musician.

The outing comes after the couple attended the Ivor Novello Awards earlier this summer where Sting was awarded with a Fellowship which is the highest honour the Academy bestows.

Speaking on the carpet, the British rocker said he 'loves' the Ivors Academy and was 'delighted' to be 'granted this wonderful honour'.

He said: 'The last time I was here I got a lifetime achievement award which I thought was a bit premature...

'But the fellowship was obviously beyond lifetime and it sounds a bit like Lord Of The Rings, but I think there are more duties attached to a fellowship.

'The Ivors protect the rights of songwriters - that's one of the things they do, not just established songwriters like me, but up-and-coming songwriters.

Style: Trudie, 69, cut a glamorous figure for the evening as she donned a bright red dress with a low-cut neckline

Laid back: Sting, 72, opted for a casual look for the evening as he sported a black turtle-neck jumper and matcjing skinny jeans

History: Sting and Trudie have been married since 1992 and are parents to Mickey, 39, Jake, 38, Eliot, 32, and Giacomo, 27

'It is also a major export of Britain, our songwriting, so they need protecting, so I am very proud to be part of this organisation.'

Sting was the frontman, songwriter and bassist for new wave band The Police from 1977 until their breakup in 1986.

He launched a solo career in 1985.
Lucy Mecklenburgh cuddled her 17-month-old daughter Lilah after the youngster's health scare last week.

The former TOWIE star, 32, looked in good spirits as she beamed while out in Manchester on Thursday.

Lucy and Ryan Thomas' daughter was rushed to hospital with a mystery illness last week, which forced the reality star to cancel her trip to Portugal for her Results With Lucy wellness retreat.

Yet Lilah looked back in good health as she was seen out and about with her mother.

Prioritising comfort, Lucy opted for a dark green tracksuit set which she wore under a full length beige trench coat.

Mother daughter time: Lucy Mecklenburgh held her daughter Lilah, 17 months, while out in Manchester on Thursday after the youngster was rushed to hospital last week

Comfortable: Lucy opted for a dark green tracksuit set which she wore under a full length beige trench coat

The star completed the look with a sporty pair of white trainers and small black leather handbag.

The mother-of-two was seen carrying her daughter to the car before settling the toddler in her car seat.

In full mum-mode Lucy had her daughter's pink water bottle balanced in her mouth as she secured Lilah's seatbelt.

It comes after Lucy shared a picture of her cuddling her youngest child in a hospital bed last week.

She penned: 'Meant to be boarding a plane now to @rwlresultsretreats in Portugal but this little one had other ideas.

'Everyone on the @rwl retreat this week, have the most amazing time! I'm very jealous [of] the itinerary, menu and team is incredible.

'Hoping to join when Lilah is all better. Now I just need to focus on giving her lots of mummy cuddles and getting her back to feeling healthy and well.'

MailOnline contacted a spokesperson for Lucy for more information.

It's likely Lucy's fiance Ryan took the sweet photo. The couple met on Channel 4 reality series, The Island with Bear Grylls in 2017 and now share both Lilah and three-year-old son Roman.

Happy: Lucy looked to be in great spirits as she was seen smiling while out and about

Stylish: The star completed the look with a sporty pair of white trainers and small black leather hand bag

Mum mode activated: The mother-of-two carried her daughter to the car before settling the toddler in her car seat

Hands full: Lucy had her daughter's pink water bottle balanced in her mouth as she secured Lilah's seatbelt

Adorable: The toddler looked adorable in pink trainers and white padded coat

Glowing: Lucy wore her brunette locks loose as she enhanced her face with natural makeup

Taking to their Instagram Stories, the couple also shared sweet videos of Lilah, who seemed to be in good spirits as she tottered around the hospital.

Wearing a pink heart print jumper and white leggings with cute pink shoes, the toddler giggled happily while her mum reached for her hand as they made their way down a corridor.

Ryan captioned the sweet clip: First day back with a smile hoping to come home,' along with a praying hands emoji.

In another video, the gorgeous baby girl toddled towards her dad who was crouched down with open arms. He then swept her up into the air and showered her with cuddles and kisses.

Lucy wrote next to the clip: 'Thanks for all the messages. She's making a really speedy recovering which is amazing. Our tough little girl.'

Worrying: Lucy took to Instagram last week to reveal her daughter Lilah was in hospital with a mystery illness
Katie Dadzie has hit back after she was shamed by trolls for stripping down to sexy lingerie in a series of racy social media posts.

The mother-of-two, 33, and BBC presenter Nick Knowles, 61, got engaged in July in New Orleans, despite the 28-year age gap.

On Wednesday she donned barely-there semi-sheer lingerie for a skit video based on a TikTok trend, captioned: 'What he thought he was getting.'

She posed for the camera in a slew of seductive poses, flicking her hair and showing off her incredible assets in the striped ensemble from her brand Boaboawear, which emphasised her figure.

The second clip showed Katie eating popcorn and wearing a fluffy dressing gown, with the caption: 'What he got.'

Row: Katie hit back at trolls who shamed for stripping down to sexy black lingerie in a skit

Couple: Katie, 33, and her BBC presenter fiance Nick Knowles got engaged in July, despite the 28-year age gap

But trolls were quick to attack the business owner for her revealing outfits, leading to a furious row.

One Instagram user said: 'U should respect ur man and not show all off on social media tbh.

'It's not nice for him to know that everyone is looking at u ...should only be for him...'

Katie hit back, commenting: 'He's a ok with it, but thanks anyway.'

The commenter then added: 'I am not being a hater or anything. Just makes me sad that women still do this when they have a lovely man at home... It's just a shame.

'You seem lovely and don't need to do this really.'

But Katie soon hit back to defend herself: 'I have kids to feed and rent to pay, on my own - if advertising lingerie for my company helps that, then its about us not anyone else.

'Its probably more of a shame that you think having a partner means you have to be ashamed of yourself and hide away.'

Hitting back: Katie slammed an Instagram user who said she should 'respect' her man

Cheeky: The hateful comments from trolls come after Katie took to her Instagram page on Thursday to post a carousel of snaps celebrating her fiance Nick's birthday

Wow! Katie put on a racy display in see-through underwear in a slew of sizzling Instagram snaps

Katie is no stranger to posting racy pictures to her Instagram feed, posing in a white bustier and thong suspenders as Nick was pictured behind giving her a helping hand in a post for his 61st birthday.

TV star Nick, who split from his wife Jessica Rose Moor in 2016, made his first appearance with Katie in September 2021 after ending his romance with PR guru Emily Hallinan in February 2020.

Nick and Katie made their public debut as a couple at a restaurant in Bath after being friends for several years.

The TV presenter, 61, and Katie are preparing to tie the knot after getting engaged in New Orleans in July.

He got down on one knee and proposed with a gummy sweet as Katie beamed from ear to ear.

Katie previously addressed the 27-year age gap between herself and Nick as she joked that he acts like a 'teenage boy'.

She shared the secret to their happy relationship as she gushed over the Nick who recently slammed criticism of their romance.

Katie addressed their age gap and insisted she doesn't notice it because she acts older than she is, while Nick has a 'Peter Pan complex'.

Proposal: The television presenter and Katie shared the happy news of their engagement in August

Delighted: One picture saw her grinning from ear-to-ear as she showed off the ring Nick had given her which was in fact a gummy sweet

She told The Sun: 'Nick has a Peter Pan complex, he doesn't act the age he is at all. He is like a teenage boy and has so much energy, I also act a bit older, so it works out.'

Katie went on to reveal that the secret of their successful relationship is having separate homes and keeping their own independence.

Giving an insight into their relationship, Katie gushed that they are 'really happy' and said they make sure to have time apart for their work and to be with their children.

He was also previously married to Gillian Knowles from 1996 to 2000.

Katie has daughters Savannah, eight, and Alex, five, from a previous relationship, whereas Nick has four children from three different relationships.

He shares his daughter Tuesday and son Charlie with his ex-wife Gillian, while he shares another son, TJ, with dancer Paula Beckett.

Nick also has son Eddie, who was born in 2014, with his ex-wife Jessica, and the presenter met girlfriend Katie through his youngest son.
Ed Westwick has confirmed that he has future plans for children and marriage with girlfriend Amy Jackson.

The Gossip Girl actor, 36 - best known for his role as Chuck Bass - said 'yes! One hundred per cent' when he was asked if marriage and children were on his agenda.

He explained that because of his parent's perfect marriage, he now idolises their relationship and hopes to have the same kind of support in his own.

Ed is currently dating model and actress Amy, 31, and the doting have looked besotted on social media ever since they went public about their relationship.

When asked about the prospect of marriage and children in an interview with Hello! magazine, Ed said: 'Yes! One hundred per cent. I grew up in a wonderful household where my mum and dad were married.

Gorgeous couple: Ed Westwick, 36, has confirmed that he has future plans for children and marriage with girlfriend Amy Jackson, 31 (pictured in September as Paris Fashion Week)

I do: The Gossip Girl actor, 36 - best known for his role as Chuck Bass - said 'yes! One hundred per cent' when he was asked by HELLO! magazine if marriage and children were on his agenda

'My parents loved each other fiercely right up to the end. I idolised them and their relationship. Just that kind of support!'

The actor went on to explain that his father died 10 years ago and his mother passed away in September 2022.

Ed's mother died from Mesothelioma - a type of cancer caused by asbestos.

The star said while he cannot talk to his parent, he knows she is still there with them.

'I remember her hands or her shoulders, which I'd touch. I have her voice notes and clips of videos of her', he added.

'I miss her enormously, but I try to think about the future to stay positive, like marriage and kids and all of that.'

Rumours about Ed and Amy began circulating in February 2022, but they reportedly started seeing one another romantically in December 2021.

They met at Saudi Arabia's Red Sea International Film Festival last December - where they were snapped chatting together at a screening during the closing ceremony.

Cute: He explained that because of his parent's perfect marriage, he now idolises their relationship and hopes to have the same kind of support in his own (pictured: September)

Amy has starred in a string of Indian films, predominantly in Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu languages - after auditioning for one in London in a twist of fate.

She was previously in a relationship with hotelier George Panayiotou, with the pair getting engaged in January 2019 and welcoming a son, Andreas, four, that September.

They broke things off in 2021 before her relationship with Westwick began later that year.

Meanwhile, Westwick previously dated South African model and influencer Tamara Francesconi for two years before also separating in 2021.

Doting couple: Rumours about Ed and Amy began circulating in February 2022, but they reportedly started seeing one another romantically in December 2021
Olivia Attwood has admitted she thought 'someone had died' when her friend Georgia Harrison rang her 'screaming and crying' over her leaked sex tape.

George was a victim of revenge porn in 2020 after her ex-boyfriend Stephen Bear uploaded CCTV footage of them having sex to an OnlyFans pan.

Bear is currently serving a 21-month prison sentence after being found guilty of voyeurism and two counts of disclosing private, sexual photos and films.

During Thursday's Loose Women, Olivia recalled the moment Georgia called to say that the intimate footage had been posted online,

Olivia said: 'I remember you calling me.. excuse me, I have goosebumps now talking about it. You were screaming and crying so much, I thought someone had died. I couldn't make out for ages what you were trying to tell me.

Candid: On Loose Women on Thursdauy, Georgia Harrison, (right) said she hopes ex Stephen Bear has 'learnt the error of his ways' after he was imprisoned for leaking a sex tape of her with out her knowledge as Olivia Attwood recalled how she 'thought someone had died' when the star called her 'screaming and crying'over the ordeal

Shocking: The reality television star was made a victim of revenge porn in 2020 and Stephen is currently serving a 21 month prison sentence after being found guilty of voyeurism and two counts of disclosing private, sexual photos and films

'And I think if anyone ever wants to downplay the emotional impact it has on someone, when you become aware, for example, that video is live, then try taking that kind of phone call and hearing that.

'You were completely and utterly distressed. It was horrific. I'll remember that forever. It was absolutely awful.'

Georgia also opened up about her feelings towards the release of her ex-boyfriend after he was jailed sharing the couple's sex tape online.

Georgia appeared on the show with her mum Nicole, she discussed his release next year.

She said: 'I mean, look, for me, I always just want the best outcomes for all souls in all situations. Like if he could learn the error of his ways and hopefully rehabilitate himself, then hats off to him.

'And I hope that is what he manages to do. It's just whether or not he'll do that. I think mum's more apprehensive than me. I mean, I've got a restraining order.'

Meanwhile her mum explained: 'Yeah, I just feel like he never took, he never acknowledged what he done was wrong.

'Even on the day of sentencing, he was still thinking he's done nothing wrong. I feel like he needs to acknowledge what he's done is wrong and hopefully change.

Stephen's release: 'Like if he could learn the error of his ways and hopefully rehabilitate himself, then hats off to him,' said Georgia

Apprehensive: While Georgia hopes Stephen will learn from his mistakes, her mother Nicole admitted 'I just feel like he never took, he never acknowledged what he done was wrong'

Awful: Olivia remembered the phone call she received from Georgia when she had just found out: 'I remember you calling me, excuse me, I have goosebumps now talking about it. You were screaming and crying so much, I thought someone had died'

Distress: Recalling how she felt when she found out the intimate footage had been shared, 'I just felt so violated, so let down. I felt like, less worthy as a human being after that happening'

Opening up: The pair were joined by panellists Kaye Adams, Nadia Sawalha, Jane Moore and Georgia's friend Olivia Attwood Dack as the star prepares to launch her debut book 'Taking Back My Power'

'Well maybe apologise, I don't think we'll get that.'

The pair were joined by panellists Kaye Adams, Nadia Sawalha, Jane Moore as the star prepares to launch her debut book 'Taking Back My Power'.

Describing her emotions at that point in time, Georgia, who received the Activist award at the Glamour of the Year Awards last week, told the panel: 'Just like really, really scattered and I just felt so violated, so let down. I felt like, less worthy as a human being after that happening.

'I just felt like, not only had he really taken advantage of me, but I also felt like the online platforms were also taking advantage of me.

'Like they were monetising off of it and my name. When you put in a search engine, it immediately said 'Georgia Harrison sex tape' and it was leading all these people to porn channels and there was nothing I could do about it.'

Opening up on their efforts to take the video down themselves, Georgia said: 'We didn't know how big it was yet It was literally everywhere.'

The star also discussed her decision to go to the police and the positive experience she had.

'The police took it seriously from the get-go but I know not all victims have the same experience in terms of the police but they didn't judge me at all.

'I think for a lot of women they might have an initial discussion and then sometimes they feel like they're getting blamed and they don't follow it up with the police because of that. But luckily, my experience was brilliant with the police.'
Adam Wylie, best known for starring on the Picket Fences for four seasons between 1992 to 1996, was allegedly arrested for shoplifting from Target in Burbank.

The former child star, 39, reportedly 'only scanned some of the items from his cart' at the retailer's self-checkout area, before making a beeline to his vehicle with $108 worth of unpaid-for health and beauty products.

Upon exiting the department store, Burbank Police Department told TMZ that Wylie was met by Target's security, who 'recovered' the stolen merchandise.

After police arrived, the actor, who made his acting debut at age six in the 1990 TV movie, Without Her Consent, was cited for 'petty theft' and released.

Brush with the law: Adam Wylie, best known for starring on the Picket Fences for four seasons between 1992 to 1996, was allegedly arrested for shoplifting from Target in Burbank; seen in 2019

Petty theft: The former child star, 39, reportedly 'only scanned some of the items from his cart' at the retailer's self-checkout area, before making a beeline to his vehicle with $108 worth of unpaid-for health and beauty products (pictured in character as Zach Brock on Picket Fences)

He has yet to publicly comment on the incident on any of his social media accounts.

Fans have already begun flooding the comment section on his Instagram to roast him for his alleged crime.

'Did you really steal from target?' one asked, prompting another fan to come to Wylie's defense as she commented that the question was inappropriate and noisy.

The woman, who goes by Judi Howlett on TikTok, replied: 'Did you really come here thinking he would answer your question? If and when hes ready to talk, he will until then please stop bothering him.'

Still others couldn't resist asking 'why' he would 'shoplift at Target'

Wylie's most recent most on October 13 teased his performance at the world famous Magic Castle's library bar in the Milt Larsen Inner Circle that evening.

Since rising to fame as Zach Brock on Picket Fences, the San Dimas native has been working as a magician, and garnered more than 1.4 million TikTok followers.

His first brush with Hollywood came after appearing in a candy commercial at four, before going on to do voice-over work for the voice of young Prince Derek in The Swan Princess in 1994 and David in All Dogs Go to Heaven 2, two years later.

Caught: Upon exiting the department store, Burbank Police Department told TMZ that Wylie was met by Target's security, who 'recovered' the stolen merchandise (pictured in 2016)

Fans have already begun flooding the comment section on his Instagram to roast him for his alleged crime

'Did you really steal from target?' one asked, prompting another fan to come to Wylie's defense as she commented that the question was inappropriate and noisy

He went on to lend his voice in several animated series, including Dennis the Menace, Hey Arnold!, Crayola Kids Adventures, Napoleon, The King and I, Kitty's Dish, Batman Beyond, Pepper Ann and more.

In 2002, he appeared as Jack in Stephen Sondheim's Tony Award-winning revival of Into the Woods on Broadway.

Seven years later, Wylie performed card and coin tricks on the syndicated magic show, Masters of Illusion.

Over his career, he won an Young Artist Award for Picket Fences and Dennis the Menace as well as well as two YoungStar Awards for Picket Fences.
Pierce Brosnan looked almost unrecognisable in his new role as 'The Great Escaper' D-Day veteran Artie Crawford for Sky Cinema's The Last Rifleman.

The James Bond actor, 70, was aged into 92-year-old Artie using prosthetics and a balding grey wig.

Dressed up in a suit adorned with his war medals, Pierce looked like a stately gentleman as he leaned on a walking stick.

Pierce plays World War Two veteran Artie in the 12million wartime feature film, which is based on the true story of Bernard Jordan.

A teaser said: '@piercebrosnanofficial as 92 year old WWII veteran Artie in The Last Rifleman will make you believe in humanity again 

New role: Pierce Brosnan looked almost unrecognisable as 'The Great Escaper' D-Day veteran Artie Crawford for Sky Cinema's The Last Rifleman, based on the life of Bernard Jordan

Day to day: Pierce, 70, looked very different from usual after prosthetics were added (pictured in June)

'Arties epic journey to attend the anniversary of the D-Day landings is based on a true story. Coming to Sky Cinema soon.'

Royal Navy Lieutenant Jordan escaped from his care home in 2014 aged 89 to attend the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy.

He told his care home workers he was 'popping down to the shops' but instead headed to Brighton Railway station before boarding a train to Portsmouth and later a ferry to Caen.

He managed to attend the events alongside hundreds of other veterans to remember those who had lost their lives.

Meanwhile a cross-channel search and rescue operation was launched to locate him.

His exploits were splashed on the front page of the Mail at the time and earned him the nickname 'The Great Escaper'.

Afterwards, he said of his escapade: 'My thoughts were with my mates who had been killed. I was going to pay my respects.'

He later said: In the months leading up to the anniversary I was trying to get an official trip to Normandy but I didnt have the necessary passes. Then, the day before D-Day I saw all the TV coverage and thought, I have to go and be part of it. I was naughty and secretive.

Inspiration: Bernard Jordan is pictured in 2015 - a year after he made his 'great escape'

Bernie passed away the following January - and just a week later his childhood sweetheart Irene died.

They left the entirety of their 600,000 estate to the RNLI, having had no children.

Jordan's story has been receiving a lot of attention this year, and has also been played by Michael Caine in ITV series The Great Escaper.

Pierce was previously snapped leaning on a walking stick during filming in County Antrim in Northern Ireland.

The feature film is based on real events and is written by Kevin Fitzpatrick and directed by Terry Loane.

The Last Rifleman also stars Harry Potter actress Clemence Poesy, German actor Jurgen Prochnow, John Amos, Derry Girls' Claire Rafferty and Normal People's Desmond Eastwood.

The Last Rifleman is due to be released this year - although an official date has not yet been confirmed.
Taylor Swift has drawn countless fans and stars to her wildly successful Eras tour - including Cameron Diaz.

The actress, 51, watched the songstress perform with Tiffany Haddish and Zoe Saldana over the summer - and she described the experience during an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Wednesday.

'Zoe Saldana is one of my besties and we were talking and the night before she was like, "Should we go see Taylor Swift?" And I was like, "Yeah, I think we should, but how are we ever going to get tickets?" Then, Elsa calls Zoe the next morning and says "Let's go!"

'We show up and Tiffany is there, who is like the biggest Swiftie ever... She's like, "I love this girl."

'She just goes in on every word, she knows everything. It's a good time, watching the show with Tiffany.'

VIP! Cameron Diaz has recalled attending the Taylor Swift concert over the summer with her A-list group

A-list! The actress, 51, watched the songstress perform with Tiffany Haddish and Zoe Saldana over the summer

Cameron also gushed about what a good time Tiffany is in general, and revealed her love for drinking tea.

'She loves tea, I learned. She's a tea connoisseur. I'm just like, "Will you please invite me over for some tea and we can spill the tea?"' Cameron said.

Another person Cameron loves bonding with over food is her mother Billie Early.

The Mask actress revealed how she and her mother make lunch together over FaceTime.

'I just cook with my mom, every night I cook dinner with my mom. Me and my mom still cook together on the phone, like FaceTime, on the weekends, like, "Let's cook lunch together." And we'll like get on the phone and FaceTime and cook and talk and hang out while she's cooking her lunch, I'm cooking my lunch.'

Asked if she had any cooking-related projects in the works, she joked about writing a cookbook called 'Put An Egg On It' due to her fondness for spicing up dishes with an added egg.

'All my friends say that I need to write a book, a cookbook and call it Put An Egg On It. Because every time I'm like, "You know what that's really good, it's really good with an egg on it." Just put an egg on it.

'Put an egg on it, I'm the queen of morning hash, I'll take everything out of the refrigerator and like chop it all up and like layer it and I'm like,' she mimics flipping an egg onto her dish. 'Put an egg on it!'

'The biggest Swiftie ever': Diaz revealed Haddish is a huge Taylor fan

'She's a tea connoisseur': Cameron also gushed about what a good time Tiffany is in general, and revealed her love for drinking tea

Cameron also plugged the natural wine line she launched in 2020, Avaline.

'We're really excited about Avaline being able to provide exactly what we wanted which is total transparency in wine making process, letting people know what's in the bottle, what's not in the bottle,' she explained.

Outside of her wine making ventures, Cameron is raising daughter Raddix with her husband Benji Madden.

Diaz and Madden first met in early 2014 through Nicole Richie, who is married to Benji's twin brother Joel Madden.

She married the lead guitarist and backing vocalist of band Good Charlotte in early January 2015.

The couple welcomed Raddix via surrogate on December 30th, 2019.

Cheers to you! Diaz also plugged the natural wine brand she founded in 2020, Avaline

'Total transparency': Diaz gushed about her company's commitment to disclosing all their ingredients to their consumers

Diaz and her musician husband were recently spotted on a double date with her Sex Tape co-star Rob Lowe, 59, and his wife, Sheryl Berkoff, 62, at Steak 48 in Beverly Hills.

The pals  who all reportedly live close to each other in Montecito  were also recently spotted enjoying a double date at the famed Tre Lune Italian restaurant in Montecito.

Previously, Diaz worked with Lowe on the 2014 comedy Sex Tape  which was one of the last films she made before taking a hiatus from Hollywood.

Soon, she will be making her return to the silver screen with upcoming Netflix action comedy Back in Action  in which she will star opposite Jamie Foxx and Kyle Chandler.
The Beatles are set to release their 'final' song next week thanks to the help of AI technology, 50 years since the band broke up.

Titled Now And Then, the track is based on a 1970s demo record that Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Star have been working on for the past four decades.

With the help of artificial intelligence they have managed to 'extricate' John Lennon's vocals from an old demo to finish the song.

News of the final song was announced earlier this summer, however it has now been confirmed that the track will premiere at 2pm on November 2.

It will also be available on a newly-mastered version of the band's Red And Blue album, which is due for release on November 10.

The Beatles 'emotional' as 'final' song Now And Then is set to be released next week and will feature vocals of John Lennon thanks to AI technology. Clockwise from top left: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon and George Harrison

Titled Now And Then, the track is based on a 1970s demo record that Sir Paul McCartney and Ringo Star have been working on for the past four decades

With the help of artificial intelligence they have managed to 'extricate' the vocals of John Lennon (pictured in 1964) from an old demo to finish the song

Now And Then was one of several songs recorded by Lennon shortly before his death in 1980.

Two of the other tracks - Free As A Bird and Real Love - were cleaned up by producer Jeff Lynne before being released in 1995 and 1996.

But Lynne struggled to clean up Now And Then, and his attempt was deemed 'rubbish' by George Harrison, who refused to work on it.

However, AI technology has given McCartney a new way to revive the song once more.

With the help of AI, director Peter Jackson cleared those problems up by 'separating' Lennon's original vocals from a piano used in the late 1970s.

'There it was, John's voice, crystal clear,' Paul said in the announcement. 'It's quite emotional. And we all play on it, it's a genuine Beatles recording.

'In 2023 to still be working on Beatles music, and about to release a new song the public haven't heard, I think it's quite an exciting thing.'

Meanwhile, George's widow, Olivia, said George felt in the 1990s that the technical problems made it impossible to release a song that met the band's standards.

With the improvements, 'he would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song now if he were still alive, she said.

The Beatles perform on the Ed Sullivan Show in New York on February 9, 1964

Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Starr have spoken of their 'emotional' response ahead of the release of what they are calling the last song by The Beatles (the band in 1967)

BBC archivist Elliot Gibson, who found the Radio Newsreel report featuring the Beatles - unheard for almost 60 years - pictured at the BBC Archive Centre in Perivale, west London

George and Olivia Harrison in 1992. His widow said that with the improvements brought about by AI 'he would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song

The much clearer vocals allowed Paul and Ringo to complete the track last year, much to the excitement of Beatles fans.

The survivors packed plenty into it. The new single contains guitar that Harrison had recorded nearly three decades ago, a new drum part by Starr, with McCartney's bass, piano and a slide guitar solo he added as a tribute to Harrison, who died in 2001.

The two surviving band members also sing back-up on the track.

Paul also added a string arrangement written with the help of Giles Martin, son of the late Beatles producer George Martin.

As if that wasn't enough, they weaved in backing vocals from the original Beatles recordings of Here, There And Everywhere, Eleanor Rigby and Because.

Next Wednesday, the day before the song's release, a 12-minute film that tells the story of the new recording will be made public.

Later in the month, expanded versions of the Beatles' compilations '1962-1966' and '1967-1970' will be released. 'Now And Then,' despite coming much later than 1970, will be added to the latter collection.

The surviving Beatles have skillfully released new projects, such as remixes of their old albums that include studio outtakes and Jackson's Get Back film, timed to appeal to nostalgic fans around the holiday season.

But this will mark the last one.

'This is the last track, ever, that youll get the four Beatles on the track. John, Paul, George, and Ringo,' the latter said in a recent interview with Associated Press.
Zachery Ty Bryan will serve seven days in jail and 36 months of supervised probation following his July 28 arrest on a charge of fourth-degree felony assault.

On Wednesday afternoon, the 42-year-old Home Improvement alum plead guilty to felony assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence in an Oregon court.

As part of a negotiated resolution, according to The Hollywood Reporter, a second count was dismissed, and rather than him spending '19 to 20 months' in Oregon Department of Corrections, he received a 'downward dispositional departure' to three years of supervised probation and just a week in jail.

Bryan will also have to 'abide by a set of conditions typical of domestic violence cases' that include 'no contact with the victim without the probation officer's approval, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, and no alcohol and drug use moving forward.'

Plead guilty: Zachery Ty Bryan will serve seven days in jail and 36 months of supervised probation following his July 28 arrest on a charge of fourth-degree felony assault; seen in 2016

Serving time: On Wednesday afternoon, the 42-year-old Home Improvement alum plead guilty to felony assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence in an Oregon court

'Mr. Bryan decided to accept this resolution and admit that he recklessly caused physical injury to his domestic partner to avoid further trauma to his family so they could move on and heal,' Lane County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Parosa told THR in a statement.

If he violates any conditions of his parole, the actor will have to serve '19 to 20 months of prison time that the court suspended under the deal.'

While speaking about his client's guilty plea, Bryan's lawyer told The Wrap: 'He believes this is the manner he could best resolve this to avoid further trauma to his family.'

In photos, obtained by DailyMail.com, Bryan was seem arriving to the Lane County Courthouse in a blue sweatshirt and red baseball cap.

He attempted to keep a low profile as he walked through the courthouse with a coffee cup and his head down while carrying a bulky black backpack.

At times, he wore a blue surgical mask, which covered the majority of his face.

Over the summer, he was arrested for fourth-degree felony assault in Eugene, Oregon for getting physical with a woman, who was not named by authorities.

Bryan was charged with a pair of felonies and a misdemeanor in connection with the July incident: assault, robbery and harassment.

In October of 2020, Bryan was arrested on accusations he assaulted and strangled his fiancee Johnnie Faye Cartwright, and in February 2021, he entered guilty pleas to two misdemeanor domestic violence charges in connection with the incident.

As part of a negotiated resolution, according to The Hollywood Reporter, a second count was dismissed, and rather than him spending '19 to 20 months' in Oregon Department of Corrections, he receive a 'downward dispositional departure' to a week in jail and three years of supervised probation (seen in 2014)

Bryan will also have to 'abide by a set of conditions typical of domestic violence cases' that include 'no contact with the victim without the probation officer's approval, alcohol and substance abuse treatment, and no alcohol and drug use moving forward' (seen in 2023)

Cartwright, who got engaged to the actor in November of 2021, shares three young children with him: one-year-old daughter Kennedy, and five-month-old twins Parker and Sequoia.

Cartwright told US Weekly in a statement in August: 'I ask everyone to please be respectful of our privacy for the sake of the children and our families so the healing process can begin.'

'I'll always want what's best for the father of my children,' Cartwright told the publication of Bryan, adding that 'trauma can bring struggles in many shapes and forms,' while giving her take on the reporting of the recent incident.

'It's a horrible situation that's going to be spun in so many ways,' she said. 'I've learned firsthand the truth will never align with what's been put out there.'

The latest charge appears to indicate that he is accused of attacking someone who had previously obtained a domestic violence restraining order, though the alleged victim has not yet been named.

Members of the Eugene Police Department told TMZ that police received a call about a physical altercation between and man and a woman at a local residence.

Casual: In photos, obtained by DailyMail.com, Bryan was seem arriving to the Lane County Courthouse in a blue sweatshirt and red baseball cap

For his hearing, he wore a light pair of slacks and black backpack

However, once officers responded to the scene Bryan was nowhere to be found.

They reportedly were able to track him down, though, and he was transported to the jail and booked on the felony assault charge.

It remains unclear if his fiancee Cartwright, who was the target of his 2020 attack, was also the victim of the recent alleged altercation.

Bryan's latest alleged domestic violence incident came just a month after he claimed that his previous arrest in 2020 was a 'wake-up call' as he tries to rebuild his life.

The former child star, claimed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the physical altercation in October of that year started because his girlfriend at the time, Johnnie Faye Cartwright, was upset he was 'living a double life' and was still married  even though he had announced his divorce two weeks earlier.

He later plead guilty to two misdemeanor counts of menacing and assault in the fourth degree and was sentenced to a three-year probation and attendance in a violence intervention program, and was ordered to have no further contact with the victim.

Laying low: He attempted to keep a low profile as he walked through the courthouse with a coffee cup and his head down

Bryan said he now tries to stay away from alcohol, and he and Cartwright were still together and were now raising their children.

Bryan rose to national fame in the 1990s as the eldest child on Home Improvement, which also starred Tim Allen and future teen heartthrob Jonathan Taylor Thomas.

After the show ended in 1999, Bryan turned to film roles and earned guest spots on television shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Boston Public and Veronica Mars.

He then became an executive producer on independent films, and married his high school sweetheart Carly Matros in 2007.

They would go on to have four children that they raised together in a multi-million dollar home in Newport Beach, California. The youngest, a son, was born in March 2019, joining three daughters  including a set of twins.

In more recent years, Bryan has made a name for himself as a conservative commentator on platforms like FOX News and The Daily Wire.

In September 2020, Bryan announced he and Matros were getting a divorce  and in a ridiculous twist he appeared to have plagiarized Armie Hammer's divorce announcement almost word for word.

He now admits to The Hollywood Reporter: 'I was just in party freaking mode  making movies, traveling, drinking. I wasn't living the way I was raised, you know what I mean?

'Mr. Bryan decided to accept this resolution and admit that he recklessly caused physical injury to his domestic partner to avoid further trauma to his family so they could move on and heal,' Lane County's Chief Deputy District Attorney Chris Parosa told THR in a statement (seen in 2016)

Glory days: Bryan had rose to national fame in the 1990s as the eldest child on Home Improvement, which also starred Tim Allen and future teen heartthrob Jonathan Taylor Thomas

'I was not being a faithful husband, and I was not being the best me,' he continued. 'I thought I would be able to go out and do whatever I wanted, have fun, come home and be a family man with my kids. That's not how the real world works.'

Just 16 days after the divorce announcement, in October of 2020, Bryan was arrested in Oregon and charged with felony strangulation, fourth-degree assault, coercion, menacing, harassment and interference with making a police report.

The most serious charges, including felony strangulation, were later dropped and he pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors.

He was also ordered by the court not to 'buy, possess or consume alcoholic beverages' or be in any place that sells or serves alcohol as its primary purpose.

It was his second arrest of 2020, after being booked for DUI that May. He plead guilty in that case as well, and was sentenced to five years probation and 18 months in a multiple-offender alcohol program due to a record of other DUI arrests in 2004, 2007 and 2017.

According to Oregon police records obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Cartwright claimed that on the night of the alleged assault, Bryan, with whom she had been in a 'sexually intimate' relationship for two years, woke her up demanding to know what happened to his cellphone charging cables.

She alleged that he 'pulled her hair' and punched her in the face multiple times.

The two then fell on a set of stairs, at which point, the police report says, Bryan 'grabbed Cartwright's neck with both hands and choked her' for about 45 seconds.

Responding officers said they saw multiple injuries on Cartwright, who claimed Bryan became abusive a month earlier. But Bryan claimed Cartwright woke him up and bit him in the groin.

He alleged that her injuries were self-inflicted in an effort to set him up because she 'wanted to ruin his career' after he said he wanted to break up and stop paying her rent.

'I heard her tell dispatch, "This is the guy from Home Improvement. He's the famous guy,"' Bryan reportedly told officers on the scene.

Looking back, he says the arrest 'got so blown out of proportion' by the media, and claims it was not as physical as the police report states.

Trying to stay afloat: After the show ended in 1999, Bryan turned to film roles and earned guest spots on television shows. He is pictured here on Home Improvement with Tim Allen

Rightward turn: In recent years, he has become a conservative commentator on FOX News and The Daily Wire

He explained that he and Cartwright began seeing each other when he was still married and there were times she would get upset over his 'double life.'

And even though he announced his divorce, Bryan claimed the fight escalated that night because they had both 'been drinking too much.

'We didn't even really get that physical,' he said. 'We got really loud. We were screaming and because we were in a townhome that had [thin walls], everybody could hear.'

He continued to say Cartwright 'was at the time just really upset about my situation.'

And, he claimed, 'At the end of the day, [the police] throw a bunch of counts at you because they ultimately want you to plead something,' noting that cops nicknamed him 'Country Club Zach' and seemed to poke fun at his fame.

'I could've fought it... but that's more stress and drama,' Bryan explained. 'I got two misdemeanors and called it a day.'

But he said he now thanks God for his arrest, describing it as a 'wake up call.'

'I went through a situation that I'm pretty sure plenty of people across the globe experience with their partners, and that was a learning experience,' Bryan said.

He acknowledged he 'definitely [has] an issue with drinking' but does not believe the term 'alcoholic' applies to him.

'Dude, I started drinking when I was 14,' he said. 'Back then I was going to nightclubs and they would just let me in because I was the kid from Home Improvement.'

Now, he says, he tries to stay away from alcohol, explaining: 'I'm not going out and getting lit, and that takes away a lot of my problems.'

He and Cartwright were still together prior to his latest arrest.

In November 2021, just one year after his arrest, Bryan revealed that he and Cartwright were engaged to be married.

Based on the timeline of his now private Instagram account, The Hollywood Reporter found, Cartwright was already pregnant with a girl at the time.

He announced the birth on the social media platform in spring 2022.

That November, Bryan also revealed that he and Cartwright were expecting twins, and she gave birth in May.

More trouble: Bryan continues to face scrutiny for his role selling tokens for an ag-tech company that never materialized; seen in 2016 with his ex-wife Carly Matros

But the actor/producer continues to face scrutiny from some who considered him one of their closest friends.

In 2018, they explain, Bryan linked up with Producers Market, an ag-tech startup focused on farmers and the global food chain.

The company aimed to empower farmers by removing the middleman and putting profits more directly in their tokens using a QR code that would allow them to tip farmers.

It explored using tokens to fund growth, and brought Bryan  who had made millions in the early days of Bitcoin  on as an adviser to help develop relationships within the crypto community.

He then invested in the money in the company, and asked others to do the same.

But the plans for a token system never materialized, and in 2019 the company officially decided to end Bryan's role as an advisor.

Executives learned just one year later that Bryan was selling the nonexistent tokens to other investors.

'Mr. Bryan misrepresented our company without our knowledge, participation or permission,' a spokesperson said. 'When we found out, we immediately issued a cease and desist demand to him.

'This activity is unacceptable and not a reflection of our mission to support the well-being of farmers and our food systems.'

But Bryan denies he was 'running some shady scam deal  that's just not me.'

'What people don't understand is that you take risks, nothing is for sure,' he said, vowing that if the company ever goes public, he will personally distribute his Producers Market stock to those who are still waiting on their money.
Keira Knightley enjoyed a relaxing stroll with her husband James Righton through north London on Wednesday.

The actress, 38, put on a casual display as she blended in with the public during her visit to a butchers in Hampstead.

She looked ready for Autumn in an oatmeal knitted sweater with a pair of rolled up denim jeans and a leather jacket.

Keira was accompanied by musician James, 40 - best known for his work with disbanded group The Klaxons.

He wore checked wool coat with some brown trousers and a pair of chunky black boots.

Out and about: Keira Knightley, 38, enjoyed a relaxing stroll with her husband James Righton, 40, through north London on Wednesday

Keira and James were married in 2013 in the South of France, where she wore Chanel couture as they exchanged vows in front of eleven guests.

The actress was enjoying some valuable free time as she prepares to film new Netflix drama Black Doves over the coming weeks.

The forthcoming series is set over the Christmas period and will feature Keira as Helen, a woman with a secret identity who embarks on a torrid affair.

But she is faced with a conundrum after he is targeted by members of the London underworld, prompting her panicked employers to call in a security guard in a bid to protect her.

The actress recently hit out at the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence in film, a reactionary measure by studios to replace actors still embroiled in SAG-AFTRA strikes across the United States.

Addressing the growing trend, Keira admitted she might be forced into preventative action by copyrighting her face - thereby preventing its unauthorised use.

She said: 'At the moment for actresses, the concern is about the voice, and they're trying to protect the voice-over industry.

'I don't know where that's at but I know that's the negotiation. But I imagine the next step will be to copyright my face.'

Stylish: The actress put on a casual display as she blended in with the public during her visit to a local butchers

Shopping: She looked ready for Autumn in an oatmeal knitted sweater with a pair of rolled up denim jeans and a leather jacket

Stroll: Keira was accompanied by musician James, 40 - best known for his work with disbanded group The Klaxons

Relaxing: He wore checked wool coat with some brown trousers and a pair of chunky black boots

Couple: Keira and James were married in 2013 in the South of France, where she wore Chanel couture as they exchanged vows in front of eleven guests

Time off: The actress was enjoying some valuable free time as she prepares to film new Netflix drama Black Doves over the coming weeks

Keira continued: 'AI has the potential to be catastrophic and I hope governments come in and regulate it,' she added.

Studios including the likes of Amazon, Netflix and Apple are proposing to use AI to replace humans with digital scans where an actor's likeness can be superimposed over a stunt double.

Hollywood actors and writers are currently united in their first 'double strike' in more than 60 years vowing they will protect every worker in the industry from being replaced by AI.

It comes as celebrities are increasingly targets of deepfake technology, which can use their voices and likeness for everything from advertisements to sham songs and pornography.

Actor Bruce Willis, who was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in March last year, was deep-faked into 'appearing' in an ad where he was tied to a bomb on the back of a yacht, growling Mississippi in a Russian accent.

Fears: Keira will not let Artificial intelligence take her successful acting career away from her. Amid the Hollywood strikes she plans to copyright her face

Leading lady: The actress, who recently starred in Ridley Scott's Boston Strangler (pictured), likes to have control over her projects

The question, 'Who owns Bruce Willis' became a concern for SAG-AFTRA last year and began fighting against contracts that exploited their member's naivety about AI.

Keira, who recently starred in Ridley Scott's Boston Strangler, will not allow herself to be replicated and likes to have control over her projects.

The Bend It Like Beckham star has 55 five films under her belt and recently worked with Ridley Scott for his project the Boston Strangler which was well-received by critics.

She recently dropped out of starring in the Apple TV adaptation of Sarah Perry's historical novel The Essex Serpent to be with her family when COVID restrictions made getting childcare difficult.
A dazzling journey to acrobatics in Wuqiao

(People's Daily App) 15:14, October 26, 2023

Wuqiao county in Hebei Province is renowned as one of the birthplaces of Chinese acrobatics, attracting thousands of tourists to watch its exceptional acrobatic shows. Recently, Will from Nigeria visited China's "hometown of acrobatics," enjoying a journey of exploration into traditional acrobatics. (Video source: Great Wall New Media)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Doctor Who has hosted a whole array of stars since its 2005 revival and has even launched the careers of some now-household names.

As well as names including David Tennant and Matt Smith taking on the titular role, the sci-fi franchise's guest stars have also gone on to launch Hollywood careers.

Oscar-nominated and award-winning actress Carey Mulligan appeared in a very popular episode of Doctor Who before soaring to global fame just years later.

Marvel's Letitia Wright also appeared on the show before becoming a household name, along with Hollywood stars including Daniel Kaluuya and Andrew Garfield.

As the release dates for Doctor Who's 60th anniversary specials are confirmed, MailOnline takes a look at the stars you may not remember appeared on the show.

Pre-fame: Doctor Who has hosted a whole array of stars since its 2005 revival and has even launched the careers of some now-household names, including Carey Mulligan

CAREY MULLIGAN

One of Doctor Who's scariest and most popular episodes was 2007's Blink, starring David Tennant's Doctor and Freema Agyeman as his assistant Martha Jones.

But the character who was the focus of the nail-biting episode was none other than Carey Mulligan, just years before she became a household name.

Carey was in her early 20s when she took on the role of Sally Sparrow, who receives a mysterious message from the Doctor about an enemy species after the TARDIS.

The drama-packed episode saw the now-infamous villains the Weeping Angels introduced to the Doctor Who universe as Sally desperately tried to fight them off.

Just two years later, Carey soared to huge acclaim with her 2009 breakthrough role in An Education, which saw her take home a BAFTA for Best Actress.

The romance film, which was Carey's first major leading role, also saw her nominated for the Best Actress gong at the Oscars that same year.

Since, Carey has become a household name and has carved out a hugely successful acting career, again being nominated for an Oscar for Promising Young Woman.

She has also starred in smash hit The Great Gatsby, as well as Pride and Prejudice and Far from the Madding Crowd.

Scary: One of Doctor Who's scariest and most popular episodes was 2007's Blink, starring Carey Mulligan as Sally Sparrow

Fame: Since, Carey has become a household name and has carved out a hugely successful acting career, again being nominated for an Oscar for Promising Young Woman

LETITIA WRIGHT

Before soaring to global fame as Shuri in Black Panther, Letitia Wright appeared in Doctor Who in a one-off appearance in Face the Raven.

The well-remembered episode sees assistant Clara Oswald (Jenna Coleman) tragically die after her heroics cost her greatly, and Letitia is also in the episode.

Letitia plays Anahson in the emotional episode and plays a pivotal role in the plot, which also sees Maisie Williams star as Ashildr, also known as Me.

Since her minor role on the BBC show, Letitia has gone on to storm Hollywood after securing a major role in Black Panther.

She starred as the late Chadwick Boseman's sister Shuri in the movie, before taking over the Black Panther mantle after Chadwick's tragic death in 2020 after a private battle with colon cancer.

As well as starring in Black Panther and its sequel Wakanda Forever, Letitia also secured a role in Kenneth Branagh's star-studded movie Death on the Nile.

Throwback: Before soaring to global fame as Shuri in Black Panther, Letitia Wright appeared in Doctor Who in a one-off appearance in Face the Raven

Marvel fame: She starred as the late Chadwick Boseman's sister Shuri in Black Panther, before taking over the Black Panther mantle after Chadwick's tragic death from cancer in 2020

ANDREW GARFIELD

Andrew Garfield may now be a huge Hollywood star, but he only had a few acting credits to his name when he appeared in Doctor Who in 2007.

He starred as a character called Frank in two episodes, Daleks in Manhattan and Evolution of the Daleks.

His character bravely gets into a fight with the Daleks in the two-part storyline and amazingly survives after being freed by the Doctor.

After starring in Doctor Who, Andrew continued to rack up acting credits and then soared to global Hollywood fame as Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man.

He starred alongside Emma Stone in the smash-hit Spider-Man movie and its sequel, and recently made a guest appearance in Tom Holland's Spider-Man: No Way Home.

Andrew has also shown off his musical talents starring as Jonathan Larson in tick, tick... BOOM!, and has most recently starred in Under the Banner of Heaven.

He is also starring alongside Florence Pugh in romance film We Live in Time, which does not yet have a confirmed release date.

Remember? Andrew Garfield may now be a huge Hollywood star, but he only had a few acting credits to his name when he appeared in Doctor Who in 2007 in two episodes

Huge star: After starring in Doctor Who, Andrew continued to rack up acting credits and then soared to global Hollywood fame as Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man

DANIEL KALUUYA

Fans watching back Doctor Who's 2009 Easter special Planet Of The Dead may notice a recognisable face making an appearance.

Daniel Kaluuya played Barclay in the episode and helps the Doctor get a London bus out of a tricky situation in an alien world in his one-off appearance as a guest star.

Since then, Daniel has stormed Hollywood and racked up a huge number of acting credits, including as W'Kabi in Black Panther.

He won huge praise for his roles in horror movies Get Out and Nope!, while he has also starred in Queen and Slim alongside Jodie Turner Smith.

Last year, Daniel revealed he nearly quit acting altogether before securing his role in Get Out, after going through a year and a half stretch where he hadn't worked.

Kaluuya told director Jordan Peele: 'I've never told you this, but when you reached out to me and we had that Skype, I was really disillusioned with acting. I had stopped acting for like a year and a half.'

'I checked out, because I was just like, this isn't working. I wasn't getting roles, because racism and all this kind of stuffso you reaching out was like, Okay, I'm not crazy. It's proper. It's going to be all right,' Kaluuya admitted.

Cameo: Fans watching back Doctor Who's 2009 Easter special Planet Of The Dead may notice a recognisable face making an appearance

Get out: Peele revealed it that it was Kaluuya's work in the 2011 Black Mirror episode Fifteen Million Merits that lead to wanting him to audition for Get Out

OLIVIA COLMAN

Olivia Colman is a household name in the British acting world, but fans may not remember that she once starred in Doctor Who.

The award-winning actress made a guest appearance in Matt Smith and Karen Gillan's first ever episode of Doctor Who as the Doctor and Amy Pond respectively.

Olivia appeared as the episode's villain Prisoner Zero, who appeared in many forms, including a mother of two daughters - who Olivia portrayed.

She was already well-established at the time of her 2010 appearance on the show, having rose to fame on the Channel 4 comedy Peep Show.

But her fleeting appearance on Doctor Who came before she soared to global fame and broke into Hollywood years later.

Olivia is now a globally-recognised name and won an Oscar for Best Actress for her role as Queen Anne in 2018's The Favourite.

She also portrayed the late Queen Elizabeth in The Crown's third and fourth series in another royal performance from the esteemed star.

She also starred alongside Doctor Who star David Tennant in crime drama Broadchurch and secured a role in Phoebe Waller-Bridge's comedy Fleabag.

With a huge number of acting credits to her fame, Olivia has also starred alongside Hugh Laurie and Tom Hiddleston in The Night Manager, and worked with Anthony Hopkins on The Father.

Most recently, she starred in hit romance film Empire of Light - which scooped up a whole host of awards - alongside Micheal Ward.

Guest star: Olivia Colman is a household name in the British acting world, but fans may not remember that she once starred in Doctor Who as a form of villain Prisoner Zero

Royal: Olivia is now a globally-recognised name and won an Oscar for Best Actress for her role as Queen Anne in 2018's The Favourite

Talented: Most recently, she starred in hit romance film Empire of Light - which scooped up a whole host of awards - alongside Micheal Ward

FELICITY JONES

Felicity Jones has become a highly-recognised actress, but viewers may not remember her fleeting appearance in Doctor Who.

Joining a whole host of guest stars on the show, Felicity portrayed Robina Redmond in the Agatha Christie inspired episode, The Unicorn and the Wasp.

She starred alongside David Tennant as The Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble in the murder mystery style episode.

Since her 2008 appearance on the sci-fi series, Felicity has gone on to join the Star Wars universe, portraying Jyn Erso in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

She also portrayed Ruth Bader Ginsburg in On The Basis Of Sex and starred alongside Eddie Redmayne in The Theory of Everything.

The 2014 biographical film The Theory of Everything even earned her a Best Actress nomination at the Oscars.

Mystery: Felicity Jones has become a well-recognised actress, but viewers may not remember her appearance in Doctor Who's Agatha Christie inspired episode The Unicorn and the Wasp

Franchise: Since her 2008 appearance on the sci-fi series, Felicity has gone on to join the Star Wars universe, portraying Jyn Erso in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

GEMMA CHAN

One of Gemma Chan's first ever TV roles was in Doctor Who's 2009 episode The Waters of Mars.

In the episode, set on Mars in 2059, she portrayed a character named Mia Bennett, who is a geologist at Bowie Base One on Mars.

Since then, Gemma's career has skyrocketed and she notably starred in Crazy Rich Asians as part of a star-studded cast in 2018.

Gemma has also stormed the Marvel Cinematic Universe, first portraying Minn-Erva in Captain Marvel, and then securing a role as heroine Sersi in Eternals.

She also starred in smash hit Don't Worry Darling, which also starred Florence Pugh, Harry Styles, Olivia Wilde and Chris Pine, among other huge Hollywood names.

Early days: One of Gemma Chan's first ever TV roles was in Doctor Who's 2009 episode The Waters of Mars

Leading star: Gemma has since stormed the Marvel Cinematic Universe, securing a role as heroine Sersi in Eternals alongside Richard Madden and Angelina Jolie

JONATHAN BAILEY

He might now be best known as a Bridgerton heartthrob, but Jonathan Bailey previously appeared in Doctor Who.

His 2014 one-off appearance on the show came when he had already made a name for himself and had a huge string of acting credits to his name.

Jonathan portrayed a cybernetic human called Psi in the episode Time Heist, starring alongside the likes of Peter Capaldi, Jenna Coleman and Keeley Hawes.

Fans might not remember his on-off appearance on the series, which came before he soared to global fame as Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix hit.

Bridgerton viewers were left gripped by the second steamy series, which saw Jonathan's character Anthony embark on a love triangle.

The drama saw Anthony intending to marry Edwina Sharma (Charithra Chandran) but he quickly falls in love with her older sister Kate Sharma (Simone Ashley) and the pair share stolen intimate moments before finally professing their feelings.

Jonathan is now gearing up to play Fiyero in the upcoming film adaptation of Wicked, which will also star Ariana Grande.

Sci-fi: He might now be best known as a Bridgerton heartthrob, but Jonathan Bailey previously appeared in Doctor Who

Raunchy: He has since soared to fame as Anthony Bridgerton as viewers were left gripped by his steamy romance with Simone Ashley's Kate Sharma

CHUKWUDI IWUJI

Another star from the Marvel Cinematic Universe who previously featured on Doctor Who was none other than Chukwudi Iwuji.

Chukwudi featured in two episodes of Doctor Who, starring as Carl Peterson in The Impossible Astronaut and Day of the Moon.

His character played a very minor role in the episodes, starring alongside his Marvel co-star Karen Gillan.

However, years later in a Guardians Of The Galaxy group interview, Karen hilariously didn't even remember his two-episode appearance on the show.

She was hilariously left shocked after learning her character Amy Pond asked his character Carl where the bathroom was in the scenes, with Chukwudi joking that he was 'bad' in the scenes.

Chukwudi later joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as villain the High Evolutionary, starring alongside Karen in Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3.

Looking back: Another star from the Marvel Cinematic Universe who previously featured on Doctor Who was none other than Chukwudi Iwuji
Martin Freeman is presenting a new podcast about The Beatles to celebrate the bands upcoming new track release.

The band are set to release their 'final' song next week thanks to the help of AI technology, 50 years after the band broke up.

Titled Now and Then, the track was originally written by John Lennon and is based on a 1970s demo record that Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Star have been working on for the last four decades.

With the help of artificial intelligence they have managed to 'extricate' John's vocals from the old demo to finish the song.

Sherlock star Martin, 52, recorded the BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds podcast series in Liverpool as an homage to where the band was formed.

Exciting: Martin Freeman is presenting a new podcast about The Beatles to celebrate the bands upcoming new track release (Martin pictured in February)

It's here: The band are set to release their 'final' song next week thanks to the help of AI technology, 50 years after the band broke up (band pictured)

The series will follow the history of The Beatles, from the start of their career to British Beatlemania, their arrival in the US, their break-up and subsequent solo careers.

The podcast features a never before heard interview with George Harrison, Paul and Ringo as they land in London Airport, now Heathrow Airport, after playing in France, almost 60 years ago.

The interview took place on February 5 1964, shortly before the band travelled to New York and appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show.

BBC archivist Elliot Gibson said: 'I found this interview which was originally on a physical reel of tape which contained news clips whilst undertaking a project to digitise 30,000 quarter-inch reels from the BBC archive.

'Theres often something surprising to be found in old archive material when you scratch the surface, but I never expected to find something of this quality  a complete Beatles interview by reporter Reg Abbiss.

'Initially, I assumed it was a copy of an interview that was widely known, so when I checked and discovered it was unique and hadnt been heard since its broadcast  almost 60 years ago  I was amazed.

'Its extremely rare to unearth material this valuable in the archive. What makes it truly great is that it shows The Beatles on top form  playful and quick-witted  and captures them just before their first visit to America, which would turn out to be a pivotal moment in their career. Who knows what I will find next?'

The first five episodes of Eras: The Beatles have been released to BBC Sounds and the final episode will be available from 2pm on November 2 when the new track is released.

Long time coming: Titled Now and Then, the track was originally written by John Lennon and is based on a 1970s demo record Sir Paul McCartney and Sir Ringo Star (pictured in 2016) have been working on for the last four decades

Huge history: The series will follow the history of The Beatles, from the start of their career to British Beatlemania, their arrival in the US, their break-up and solo careers (band in 1967)

Musical discovery: BBC archivist Elliot Gibson, who found the Radio Newsreel report featuring the Beatles - unheard for almost 60 years - pictured at the BBC Archive Centre in Perivale

The last episode features a new interview with Paul and Ringo as they discuss the making of Now And Then and reflect on their lives.

It also features insight on the new track from John's son with Yoko Ono, Sean Ono Lennon, George's widow Olivia Harrison and The Hobbit trilogy director Peter Jackson.

Now And Then was one of several songs recorded by John shortly before his death in 1980.

Two of the other tracks - Free As A Bird and Real Love - were cleaned up by producer Jeff Lynne before being released in 1995 and 1996.

But he struggled to clean up Now And Then, and his attempt was deemed 'rubbish' by George, who refused to work on it.

However, artificial intelligence technology has given Paul a new way to revive the song once more.

With the help of AI, director Peter Jackson cleared those problems up by 'separating' John's original vocals from a piano used in the late 1970s.

'There it was, John's voice, crystal clear,' Paul said in the announcement. 'It's quite emotional. And we all play on it, it's a genuine Beatles recording.

Coming soon: The first five episodes of Eras: The Beatles have been released to BBC Sounds and the final episode will be available on November 2 when the new track is released (band pictured in 1964)

Onboard: With the improvements, George 'would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song now if he were still alive, George's widow has revealed (pictured 1992)

'In 2023 to still be working on Beatles music, and about to release a new song the public haven't heard, I think it's quite an exciting thing.'

Meanwhile George's widow, Olivia, said George felt in the 1990s that the technical problems made it impossible to release a song that met the band's standards.

With the improvements, 'he would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song now if he were still alive, she said.

The much clearer vocals allowed Paul and Ringo to complete the track last year, much to the excitement of The Beatles fans.

News of the final song was announced earlier this summer, however it has now been confirmed that the track will premiere at 2pm on November 2.

It will also be available on a newly-mastered version of the band's Red and Blue album which is due for release on November 10.

The new single contains guitar that George had recorded nearly three decades ago, a new drum part by Ringo, with Paul's bass, piano and a slide guitar solo he added as a tribute to George, who died in 2001.

Final one: In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Ringo said: 'This is the last track, ever, that you'll get the four Beatles on the track. John, Paul, George, and Ringo' (band in 1964)

The two remaining members also sing backup on the track, while Paul also added a string arrangement written with the help of Giles Martin, son of the late Beatles producer George Martin.

As if that wasn't enough, they weaved in backing vocals from the original Beatles recordings of Here, There and Everywhere, Eleanor Rigby' and Because.

The surviving Beatles have skillfully released new projects, like remixes of their old albums that include studio outtakes and Peter's Get Back film, usually timed to appeal to nostalgic fans around the holiday season, but have said this will be the last one.

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Ringo said: 'This is the last track, ever, that you'll get the four Beatles on the track. John, Paul, George, and Ringo.'
Kylie Jenner has been accused of copying designer Betsy Johnson's ideas for her new clothing line Khy.

The reality star, 26, shocked fans on Tuesday with the announcement that she was expanding her empire with the 'affordable' clothing line which even saw her named 'Innovator of the Year' - but Johnson - not to be confused with American fashion icon Betsey Johnson - claims the concepts were copied from her label, Products.

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday to blast Jenner, Johnson wrote: 'We emailed Kylie and all her team @products.ltd concept and language and a line sheet 6 MONTHS AGO,

'INTERESTING CONCEPT KYLIE: INTERESTING. Thanks for the co-sign  F**k your support.'

Johnson also took a swipe at Jenner's privileged upbringing as she shared a screengrab of her current 50,000 ($60,000) student debt and penned: 'While I stare @ my student debt.

'Worked my ass off for this. Like so many other working class kids who bust their ass for expertise they werent born into to realise their ideas.'

Claim: Kylie Jenner has been accused of copying designer Betsy Johnson's ideas for her new clothing line Khy

Post: The reality star, 26, shocked her fans on Tuesday with the announcement that she was expanding her fashion empire with the new 'affordable' clothing line - but Johnson - not to be confused with American fashion icon Betsey Johnson - claims the concepts were copied from her label, Products

Jenner partnered with independent label Namilia's founders Nan Li and Emilia Pfohl for Khy's first collection, with Johnson slamming both Jenner and Namilia's alleged copying of her ideas as a 'trash move.'

Sources familiar with Jenners brand told DailyMail.com that she is 'looking forward to continuing to partner Khy with designers and brands like she did with her first collection with European brand Namilia  and bringing beautiful original designs with that brand's aesthetic to more people.'

DailyMail.com has contacted Jenner's representative for comment.

Jenner posed up in a $198 faux leather trench coat for a shoot to promote her brand, with Products also doing a version of an oversize trench and Namilia selling a similar faux leather 'Underworld' trench for $290.'

Kylie will begin selling Khy products on the brand's website starting on November 1.

The makeup mogul announced her new fashion project via her Instagram on Tuesday, with a sizzling snap captioned, 'meet khy.'

In the photo the reality TV star  who's currently dating actor Timothee Chalamet  was seated on the floor, wearing a long black leather trench coat with undone zippers on the sides showing off her toned legs.

She told WSJ: 'Creatively I have such a strong vision of what I want to look like and what I want to do and what I want to wear. Theres really no one telling me what to do.'

New business venture: Jenner posed up in a $198 faux leather trench coat for a shoot to promote her brand (left), with Products (right) also doing a version of an oversize trench

Inspired: Jenner partnered with independent label Namilia's founders Nan Li and Emilia Pfohl for Khy's first collection - Namilia's faux leather 'Underworld' trench which sells for $290 is seen above

Post: Johnson also shared a DM from a follower questioning alleged similarities between Products and Khy

However, the initial reactions from social media users weren't encouraging, as the Kardashians star was hit with a wave of complaints about the brand's supposedly cheap price point.

Although some of the items were reportedly set to be sold for lower prices than similar competitors, her fans and critics balked at some of the most expensive items in the line, which will supposedly max out around $200.

Beyond complaints about the prices, some fans were upset by the the reality star's alleged lack of inspiration when it came to her designs.

As evidence of both a lack of originality and inflated prices, some fans spied a pair of Khy gloves that Kylie wore in a Wall Street Journal piece announcing the venture, which were nearly identical to a pair of gloves sold on Amazon for nearly half what she is charging.

'Affordable lol,' wrote one poster on X (formerly Twitter), which summed up the mood of many users.

Another person simply added: 'And to her, what is "affordable?" Lol.'

However, it wasn't clear if everyone complaining about the prices had dug through to see prices.

Others saw her debuting the line in the Wall Street Journal as evidence that she was releasing something far from an 'affordable' clothing line.

One user mocked the 'affordable' line by reposting the single word with a gif of the late actor Lance Reddick from Netflix's Resident Evil series.

Another common complaint was that Kylie was trying to imitate other celebrity fashion brands, in particular the dark minimalist style of The Row, which was founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen.

One poser wrote that Kylie didn't put in 'the time and effort' that the Olsen twins did to become 'one of the most respected brands in fashion.'

Others speculated that Kylie was trying to beat Sofia Richie to the release of her own fashion line

Coming soon: Sources familiar with Jenners brand told DailyMail.com that she is 'looking forward to continuing to partner Khy with designers and brands like she did with her first collection with European brand Namilia'

Not buying it: 'Affordable lol,' wrote one poster on X (formerly Twitter), which summed up the mood of many users. However, it wasn't clear if everyone complaining about the prices had dug through to see prices

On the same page: Another person simply added: 'And to her, what is "affordable?" Lol'

Wrong venue? Others saw her debuting the line in the Wall Street Journal as evidence that she was releasing something far from an 'affordable' clothing line

Ouch: One user mocked the 'affordable' line by reposting the single word with a gif of the late actor Lance Reddick from Netflix's Resident Evil series

Copy cat? Another common complaint was that Kylie was trying to imitate other celebrity fashion brands, in particular the dark minimalist style of The Row, which was founded in 2006 by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen

Competition? Others speculated that Kylie was trying to beat Sofia Richie to the release of her own fashion line

Not a serious person: One user shared a photo of Kylie standing from behind in a tall black Khy coat while calling her 'unserious' and urging their followers to 'save your money and invest in people who started from ground up to become successful'

One user shared a photo of Kylie standing from behind in a tall black Khy coat while calling her 'unserious.'

They urged their followers to 'save your money and invest in people who started from ground up to become successful.'

Others illustrated that alleged lack of seriousness  and questions about Khy's 'affordability'  when they discovered a suspiciously similar pair of gloves to the ones Kylie wore for the Wall Street Journal.

Several users posts screenshots and links to an Amazon listing for black gloves with bulges on the fingers and knuckles that were practically identical to Kylie's edgy look.

A slightly different striped pattern over the wrist was the only major indication that they weren't the same exact gloves.

But several users cited the Amazon gloves as costing only $20  a medium pair cost just under $25 dollars as of Wednesday night, while other sizes were sold out  but Kylie's Khy gloves were listed as costing $38.

'Not Kylie selling Amazon $20 gloves for $40 as her own brand Khy lmao,' wrote one annoyed fan who compared the two pairs.

However, it is possible that her could have been made with better materials, or in more sustainable fashion, and she may also have chosen to pay the people making them more than the competing Amazon gloves.

But not everyone was ready to write off Khy just yet. One fan said they would be 'buying everything' from the line, while another person joked that they would have the website open on multiple devices to ensure they got their desired purchases when the collection went live online.

Too similar: Some users painted Kylie as an a copycat and also bashed her 'affordable' tag when they discovered a pair of gloves on Amazon that were nearly identical to her Khy gloves and half as expensive

Price difference: The gloves currently cost nearly $25 on Amazon, while Kylie will sell them for $38

They like it! Some fans joked that they would be 'buying everything' as soon as they could

She's into leather: Another person joked that Kylie's leather-friendly clothing would 'look good on a dom-woman like me'

Give it time: Another person acknowledge the criticism but wondered if Khy could still take over eventually like other KardashianJenner businesses

Not a fan of them all: Another user speculated that 'Kim, Kylie and Kendall are the dedicated ones' in the family, based on Kylie's new venture

Over the moon: One user was excited about Kylie gracing the cover of The Wall Street Journal Magazine, calling it a 'big deal' and adding, 'It's exciting to see her expanding her fashion ventures'

Expansion? The clothing will initially only be available on the brand's website, though she may later expand her offerings to other sites and stores, just as fellow family brands SKIMS and Good American did

Back in black: Khy released photos of Kylie in the brand's $198 faux leather coat, which some fans mocked for its bulky design

Another person acknowledged the criticism but wondered if Khy could still take over eventually like other KardashianJenner businesses.

Another user speculated that 'Kim, Kylie and Kendall are the dedicated ones' in the family, based on Kylie's new business.

One user was excited about Kylie gracing the cover of The Wall Street Journal Magazine, calling it a 'big deal' and adding, 'It's exciting to see her expanding her fashion ventures.'

On Thursday, Khy's official Instagram, which has already garnered more than 170,000 followers, shared a number of sultry pieces of Jenner modeling its collection.

Wow: On Thursday, Khy's official Instagram, which has already garnered more than 170,000 followers, shared a number of sultry pieces of Jenner modeling its collection.

Bold: In one image, the mother-of-two flashes her toned midriff in a faux leather crop top with a sexy cutout on the side

Racy: Another snap showed the reality star rocking a thigh-skimming minidress with a silver zipper down the front

Staying warm: Another item from her line, perfect for the fall and winter months, was a puffy trench coat

Working it: Like other pieces from Khy's first collection, Jenner modeled a faux black leather jacket with a hood

In one image, the mother-of-two flashes her toned midriff in a faux leather crop top with a sexy cutout on the side.

Another snap showed the reality star rocking a thigh-skimming minidress with a silver zipper down the front.

Other looks included a strapless jumpsuit, an oversized trench coat and hooded faux leather jacket.

Her collection, designed with an accessible price for consumers, will range from $48 to $198.

Sizes will range from XXS to 4X.
Paris Hilton is taking credit for the recent Barbie-inspired fashion craze regarded as 'Barbiecore.'

The 42-year-old DJ has been a trendsetter since arriving on the scene back in the 2000s and claims she started dressing in the pink spirit of the Mattel doll long before Margot Robbie took over the silver screen in the box-office hit Barbie.

'I was going for the Barbiecore vibes before there was even the word Barbiecore,' she explained during the British Vogue Life in Looks video released on Thursday.

'I invented it,' she insisted. 'Barbie is my idol. She is such an icon. I've looked up to her my entire life.'

To prove her point, Paris pointed out the photo of her rocking a plunging pink mini dress for the Maxim Lounge opening in Las Vegas in 2001. She accessorized the look with a purse featuring a pic of a Barbie doll.

It was me! Paris Hilton is taking credit for the recent Barbie-inspired fashion craze regarded as 'Barbiecore'

Ahead of her time: 'I was going for the Barbiecore vibes before there was even the word Barbiecore,' she explained during the British Vogue Life in Looks video

Patented: 'I invented it,' she insisted. 'Barbie is my idol. She is such an icon. I've looked up to her my entire life'

'This was a pink Versace dress that Donatella had given me and my pink Barbie bag that I got at FAO Schwartz in New York,' Paris added.

The new mom -- who recently clapped back at critics of the size of her son's head -- went on to discuss a few other red carpet looks from the era, which often included her favorite accessory: pet pooch Tinkerbell.

'When I moved to New York, I didn't have a stylist, an agent, a publicist, none of that. I did it all on my own and I used to love bringing my little Tinkerbell with me everywhere,' she said.

'It was just so much fun dressing her up 'cause she was like my first daughter. She was my best friend, my sidekick, my other half. I miss her so much.'

Another BFF she dished on was Nicole Richie, who found fame alongside Paris when they made their debut on the reality show called The Simple Life.

'It was in 2003 and Nicole and I were on set doing the first photo shoot campaign for The Simple Life,' she said while looking at a promo still.

'One day I got a call from my agents and they said that they wanted my sister and I to go to the middle of nowhere and live on a farm and basically have our phones and money and everything taken away,' she began.

'And my sister Nicky immediately said no. The first person I thought of was Nicole Richie. She's been my best friend since we were two years old.'

Style icon: Pairs claims she started dressing in the pink spirit of the Mattel doll long before Margot Robbie took over the silver screen in the box-office hit Barbie

The pink era: The new mom then broke down a few other red carpet looks from the era, which often included her favorite accessory: pet pooch Tinkerbell

On her own:'When I moved to New York, I didn't have a stylist, an agent, a publicist, none of that. I did it all on my own and I used to love bringing my little Tinkerbell with me everywhere,' she said

'And we had so much fun with these looks. It was very like country but sexy. Lots of Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior. There wasn't any reality shows out at this time. This was the first, the show was the start of it all.'

During the filming of the show in 2005, Paris and Nicole famously fell out.

The very public feud would make the fourth season of The Simple Life their last one together.

Bffs: Paris also dished on Nicole Richie, who found fame alongside Paris when they made their debut on the reality show called The Simple Life

Falling out: During the filming of the show in 2005, Paris and Nicole famously fell out.

In 2005, Paris opened up about the rift but gave little insight into what actually transpired between the young stars.

'Its no big secret that Nicole and I are no longer friends, Paris said in a statement at the time. 'Nicole knows what she did, and thats all Im ever going to say about it.'

A few months later, Nicole then discussed her side of the story and claimed they 'just grew apart'.

A year later, the pair were spotted having a dinner together in West Hollywood, proving their beef had been put to rest.
The Beatles are set to release their 'final' song next week thanks to the help of AI technology, 50 years since the band broke up.

Paul McCartney admitted 'he knew the band was really over' when John Lennon died in 2001, but in a trailer for Now And Then, revealed how their new track came about.

Joined by John and Yoko Ono's son Sean, 48, the last surviving members, Paul and Ringo Starr discuss the process.

In a clip from 1995, George Harrison, who died in 2001, reveals Yoko had shared a recording of John's vocals with him, from songs he had worked on before his death, which eventually led to the song being completed this year.

Speaking in the trailer, Paul began: 'When we lost John we knew that it was really over.'

Coming soon: The Beatles are set to release their 'final' song next week, 50 years since the band broke up (Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr pictured in 2014, L-R)

Voice: Paul McCartney admitted 'he knew the band was really over' when John Lennon (pictured left) died in 2001, but later revealed how their new track came about

Before George added: 'I was talking to Yoko and she said "Ah, I think I've got a recording of John.'

'Paul called me up and said I'd like to work on Now And Then. He put the bass on, I put the drums on,' Ringo continued.

Sean is heard saying: 'It's the last song that my dad and Paul and George and Ringo will get to make together.'

'How lucky was I to have those men in my life,' Paul concludes.

Titled Now And Then, the track is based on a 1970s demo record that Sir Paul and Ringo Star have been working on for the past four decades.

With the help of artificial intelligence they have managed to 'extricate' John's vocals from an old demo to finish the song.

News of the final song was announced earlier this summer, however it has now been confirmed that the track will premiere at 2pm on November 2.

It will also be available on a newly-mastered version of the band's Red And Blue album, which is due for release on November 10.

Family: Joined by John and Yoko Ono's son Sean, 48, the last surviving members, Paul and Ringo Starr discuss their process

Band: In a clip from 1995, George Harrison (second left), who died in 2001, reveals Yoko had shared a recording of John's vocals with him, from songs he had worked on before his death

Upset: Speaking in the trailer, Paul began: 'When we lost John we knew that it was really over'

Hope: 'Paul called me up and said I'd like to work on Now And Then. He put the bass on, I put the drums on,' Ringo continued

Now And Then was one of several songs recorded by Lennon shortly before his death in 1980.

Two of the other tracks - Free As A Bird and Real Love - were cleaned up by producer Jeff Lynne before being released in 1995 and 1996.

But Lynne struggled to clean up Now And Then, and his attempt was deemed 'rubbish' by George Harrison, who refused to work on it.

However, AI technology has given McCartney a new way to revive the song once more.

With the help of AI, director Peter Jackson cleared those problems up by 'separating' Lennon's original vocals from a piano used in the late 1970s.

'There it was, John's voice, crystal clear,' Paul said in the announcement. 'It's quite emotional. And we all play on it, it's a genuine Beatles recording.

'In 2023 to still be working on Beatles music, and about to release a new song the public haven't heard, I think it's quite an exciting thing.'

Meanwhile, George's widow, Olivia, said George felt in the 1990s that the technical problems made it impossible to release a song that met the band's standards.

With the improvements, 'he would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song now if he were still alive, she said.

The much clearer vocals allowed Paul and Ringo to complete the track last year, much to the excitement of Beatles fans.

The survivors packed plenty into it. The new single contains guitar that Harrison had recorded nearly three decades ago, a new drum part by Starr, with McCartney's bass, piano and a slide guitar solo he added as a tribute to Harrison, who died in 2001.

The two surviving band members also sing back-up on the track.

Paul also added a string arrangement written with the help of Giles Martin, son of the late Beatles producer George Martin.

As if that wasn't enough, they weaved in backing vocals from the original Beatles recordings of Here, There And Everywhere, Eleanor Rigby and Because.

Music: Now And Then was one of several songs recorded by Lennon shortly before his death in 1980. Clockwise from top left: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, John Lennon and George Harrison

Update: With the help of artificial intelligence they have managed to 'extricate' the vocals of John (pictured in 1964) from an old demo to finish the song

Exciting: Sir Paul and Sir Ringo have spoken of their 'emotional' response ahead of the release of what they are calling the last song by The Beatles (the band in 1967)

BBC archivist Elliot Gibson, who found the Radio Newsreel report featuring the Beatles - unheard for almost 60 years - pictured at the BBC Archive Centre in Perivale, west London

Support: George's widow Olivia said that with the improvements brought about by AI 'he would have wholeheartedly' joined Paul and Ringo in completing the song. George and Olivia in 1992

Next Wednesday, the day before the song's release, a 12-minute film that tells the story of the new recording will be made public.

Later in the month, expanded versions of the Beatles' compilations '1962-1966' and '1967-1970' will be released. 'Now And Then,' despite coming much later than 1970, will be added to the latter collection.

The surviving Beatles have skillfully released new projects, such as remixes of their old albums that include studio outtakes and Jackson's Get Back film, timed to appeal to nostalgic fans around the holiday season. But this will mark the last one.

'This is the last track, ever, that youll get the four Beatles on the track. John, Paul, George, and Ringo,' the latter said in a recent interview with Associated Press.
No shirt, no problem!

Timothee Chalamet was seemingly in a rush to look his best after a workout in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening.

The actor, 27, was spotted pulling over to the side of the road to change out of his gym clothes.

The Dune star ripped off his grey tank top and replaced it with a fresh black T-shirt.

Timothee's gym look also consisted of baggy shorts and a backwards cap - all of which were also replaced.

No shirt, no problem! Timothee Chalamet was in a rush to look his best after a workout in Los Angeles on Wednesday

Hot romance: The actor is currently dating Kylie Jenner. They are pictured here last month at the US Open Tennis Championships

Timothee swapped his shorts for a distressed pair of baggy jeans and ditched the cap as he pulled on his clean new top.

As for his footwear, he sported chunky teal trainers and Nike socks - however it's unclear if those were removed as well.

Timothee stood next to the driver's seat as he changed into his new look, his car seemingly still turned on with the brake lights illuminated.

There may be a reason Timothee was keen to look his best - perhaps his new girlfriend, style icon and influencer Kylie Jenner, has inspired him to be more style-conscious.

Timothee and Kylie were first romantically linked in April. The stars initially kept their budding romance lowkey and mainly out of the public eye.

In August, split rumors began to circulate, but sources informed TMZ that all was well between Jenner and Chalamet.

The following month, the two officially went public while attending a Beyonce concert where they shared a few affectionate moments.

And while attending the U.S. Open men's finals, the couple were spotted sharing PDA and exchanged kisses while seated together.

Earlier this month, during an interview with GQ, the Dune actor briefly touched on the topic of his relationship with Jenner and his desire to have aspects of his life private.

Quick change! The actor, 27, was spotted pulling over to the side of the road to change out of his gym clothes

Good as new! Chalamet swapped his grey gym top for a fresh black shirt

Fashion emergency! Chalamet was seemingly in a rush to change into his clean clothing

Style-conscious: Perhaps Chalamet was influenced by girlfriend Kylie Jenner to always look his best

'This reminds me of that recent South Park episode with the Worldwide Privacy Tour,' he stated, adding, 'Sometimes, people are going to be hella confused when you say you're trying to live a private life.'

'You've got to have the experiences in your personal life that are usable to you,' he stated while opening up about dealing with fame.

He later expressed, 'But you've got to have real experiences. Human experiences. You've got to fall in love, you've got to be bored.'

Aside from his blossoming personal life, the actor is also about to undertake an exciting new role.

Meet cute: Timothee and Kylie were first romantically linked in April. The stars initially kept their budding romance lowkey and mainly out of the public eye

Gym gear: Chalamet wore a grey tank top, baggy shorts, and green trainers for his workout

Hat's off to him! Chalamet added a touch of edge to his look with a backwards cap

Sweet! Chalamet will next be seen in the highly-anticipated prequel Wonka, playing iconic choclate factory owner Willy Wonka in the film, hitting theaters December 15

Timothee is preparing to star in a biopic of Dylan, focusing on his explosively controversial decision to go electric in 1965.

His upcoming Bob Dylan film, entitled A Complete Unknown, is directed by James Mangold, whose filmography includes the Johnny Cash biopic Walk The Line.

Chalamet will next be seen in the highly-anticipated prequel Wonka, playing iconic choclate factory owner Willy Wonka in the film, hitting theaters December 15.

His other big film that was slated for 2023 - Dune Part Two - was recently pushed to March 15, 2024 due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA strike.
Camila Morrone looked as glamorous as ever as she strutted the red carpet at an event for her movie Gonzo Girl at Rome Film Festival on Thursday.

The actress, 26, cut an elegant figure in a one-shouldered draped corseted dress in black silk chiffon by Vivienne Westwood.

She gave herself a few extra inches in black pointed heels and let her outfit do all the talking as she kept her accessories minimal - adding just a few pieces of jewelry from Brilliant Earth after fronting its new Sol Collection campaign.

Camila was joined by co-stars Willem Dafoe and Zoe Sidel, director Patricia Arquette, and producer Tom Heller at the glitzy event at the Auditorium Parco Della Musica.

Camila, who is the ex-girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio, stars as Alley Russo in the comedy/drama, which is based on the 2015 novel Gonzo Girl by Cheryl Della Pietra.

Stunning: Camila Morrone looked as glamorous as ever as she stepped out for an event for her movie Gonzo Girl at Rome Film Festival on Thursday

Glam: The actress, 26, cut an elegant figure in a one-shouldered black gown with a cinched waist and a train which billowed out behind her

All smiles: She gave herself a few extra inches in black pointed heels and let her outfit do all the talking as she kept her accessories minimal, adding just a few Brilliant Earth jewelry pieces

Camila's character Alley is a bookish graduate with literary aspirations who takes a job assisting a famous writer with a wild reputation, Walter Reade (Willem Dafoe), at his Colorado ranch.

Speaking to Wonderland Magazine about the movie, Camila talked about how turning her hand from modelling to acting has given her a 'strict work ethic'.

She said: 'I think through modelling, I was able to gain a really strict work ethic, and have a deep understanding of what it is to work hard for your money.

'If I didn't show up, I didn't get paid and I would get in trouble. It was a job.'

Discussing her transition from being a model to an actress, she went on: 'In our industry, for every 50 no's that you get, you'll get one yes and that is what keeps you going.'

'That one moment and that one opportunity is worth all the tears and deep feeling of unworthiness,' she said.

'But somewhere in there, you have to believe that if you work hard enough and the universe conspires in your favor, things will come to you.'

Gorgeous: Camila channeled her modelling credentials as she posed up a storm on the red carpet

Wow! She looked glamorous as she strutted her stuff in her understated yet elegant ensemble

Camila kicked off her successful career as a model before turning her hand to acting, and has strutted her stuff down a whole host of runways.

She notably has appeared on covers for magazines, such as Vogue Turkey and also InStyle.

Camila also made her runway debut when she walked for the luxurious brand, Moschino, in 2017.

With some smaller acting credits to her name, Camila then starred in Amazon series Daisy Jones & The Six alongside Riley Keough and Sam Claflin this year.

In her personal life, Camila also had a five-year relationship with Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio.

In 2018, Camila, then 20 years old, started dating 43-year-old Leonardo and, despite a 23-year age gap, they proved they were serious and went on to date for five years.

However, just one month after Camila's 25th birthday, the couple broke up in August last year.

Sophisticated: Camila added to her elegant look with a dramatic slick of smokey eyeliner

Leading role: Camila, who is the ex-girlfriend of Leonardo DiCaprio, stars as Alley Russo in the comedy/drama, which is based on the 2015 novel Gonzo Girl by Cheryl Della Pietre

Plot: Camila's character Alley is a graduate with literary aspirations who takes a job assisting a famous writer with a wild reputation, Walter Reade (Willem Dafoe), at his Colorado ranch

Team: Camila was joined by and producer Tom Heller co-stars Willem Dafoe director Patricia Arquette and Zoe Sidel at the glitzy event at the Auditorium Parco Della Musica

Group shot: Willem looked dapper as he posed with director Patricia and stars Bleu and Camila at the premiere

Suave: Willem, who portrays writer Walter Reade in Gonzo Girl, looked suave in a dark suit and T-shirt for the occasion

Good times: He appeared to be having a good time as he smiled and chatted on the red carpet

Gorgeous: Patricia looked elegant in a black pleated dress while Zoe showed off her incredible style in a black dress

Strike a pose: Patricia posed for a snap with Zoe

Big moment: The two bonded on the red carpet

Former flames: Camila also had a five-year relationship with Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio (both pictured in May 2018) until their break up in August 2022

Beloved pets: But earlier this year, a source close to Camila exclusively told DailyMail.com that the pair are still in regular contact following their break-up as they share custody of their dog

But earlier this year, a source close to Camila exclusively told DailyMail.com that the pair are still in regular contact following their break-up.

'They are on great terms, they see each other all the time because they share custody of their dog,' the source said.

Camila and Leonardo fostered two huskie puppies during lockdown in 2020, but after rehoming one dog, Jack, they decided to adopt his sister, Sally.
Tara Reid double downed on her vehement denial that she is not suffering from an eating disorder, despite looking noticeably thinner than ever.

During an interview with Extra host Billy Bush, the 47-year-old actress spoke about her decision to 'challenge' herself by going on Special Forces: World's Toughest Test 'to do something that' she 'never thought' she could accomplish.

When asked if she had prepared enough for the grueling television series, in which stars are subjected to intense physical and mental tests, the New Jersey native said she was inspired after suffering from 'years of pent-up' anger from body-shaming.

'No, they hired me three days before the show... So, I was not physically ready for it The backpack was so heavy on me. I had no chance It didn't work so well,' the American Pie alum.

Setting the record straight: Tara Reid double downed on her vehement denial that she is not suffering from an eating disorder, despite looking noticeably thinner than ever

As for whether she has been bullied, Reid insisted that she has been ridiculed a lot in her life, 'usually about' her body or being 'too skinny.'

At this point, Bush inquires: ''Are you too skinny?'

'It's been going on for years, but there's no eating disorder I eat all the time  that's not a problem for me,' she replied.

Reid, then asks Bush, 'You've known me for over 20 years, do I look any different?'

'I think you look a little... too skinny. I'm gonna say that,' he answered truthfully.

The performer went on to suggest that 'maybe' the chance of her appearance is because she's 'getting a little older and fragile.'

'That's what happens to older ladies,' she insisted. 'I don't think people should be making comments. I don't think they should be saying nasty things or whatever.'

Despite lasting only two days on Fox's Special Forces, Reid said she 'do it again if' she 'could start training right now.'

Gutsy: During an interview with Extra host Billy Bush, the 47-year-old actress spoke about her decision to 'challenge' herself by going on Special Forces: World's Toughest Test 'to do something that' she 'never thought' she could accomplish

Out of her comfort zone: When asked if she had prepared enough for the grueling television series, in which stars are subjected to intense physical and mental tests, the New Jersey native said she was inspired after suffering from 'years of pent-up' anger from body-shaming

Her latest comments come after setting the record straight that she has never had anorexia or bulimia during an interview with the Los Angeles Inquisitor.

'I'm terrified of throwing up, so that's not gonna happen. And I love food too much,' she told the outlet.

Reid added: 'So anyone that says I'm anorexic or bulimic, they're wrong. So stop it. Leave me alone. Pick on me again on something else, but not on those two things. It's not right.'

The performer also said the persistent speculation about her weight is a form of bullying that led her to a dark place.

That is part of the reason she decided to take part in Special Forces: World's Toughest Test.

The Sharknado actress joined the cast of the military training competition to 'get over certain issues that she has deep inside.'

'I thought if I could do this, try this, maybe I can get over some of the things that I have, like, the darkness inside of me,' she shared. 'And a lot of it's about bullying.'

Her latest comments come after setting the record straight that she has never had anorexia or bulimia during an interview with the Los Angeles Inquisitor (seen in 2018)

And while she was the first competitor to exit the show, she has no regrets.

'I'm so glad I did it because it really did help me. It made me learn my strength, my mental strength, my inner strength - not necessarily my physical strength,' she said.

'But I learned a lot about myself, and I came back feeling like a better person.'

And Tara was surprised by the overwhelming positive support she received from fans in DMs that told her she did a great job and they were proud of her.

Back in the day: Tara (pictured above in 2003) has always been slim

Heyday: Tara's career in Hollywood got off to a promising start in the late nineties

'And I would read them out loud with Nate, my boyfriend, and we were crying at moments because it felt so good because I never felt that support.'

Tara also took the time to address the fans who reached out to he and lifted her spirits.

'Thank you for making me feel good again. Because you cant write back everyone - its too hard - but I wanted to make a statement. Thank you to everyone that supported me and made me feel better and really made me want to be a better person.

'I appreciated every single comment that every single fan said, and I just want to say thank you to all of them.'
MasterChef: The Professionals saw Cameron eliminated from the competition on Thursday night after leaving the judges and critics underwhelmed with his dishes.

The first quarter-final saw the strongest five chefs from the first two heats return to battle it out to secure their place in the final.

During the episode, Cameron, 25, was up against stiff opposition as he went head-to-head with Rosie, 34, Dara, 36, Charlie, 22, and Tommy, 27.

The chefs skills were first tested during the Invention Test in a dish which had to contain nuts before they went on to present two courses to the critics.

However, after making it through the first round unfortunately Cameron didn't see the same success in the second heat.

Headed home: MasterChef: The Professionals saw Cameron, 25, eliminated from the competition on Thursday after leaving the judges and critics underwhelmed with his dishes

Departing the competition, he said: 'What an experience, having the space to put myself out there. I am very proud of myself!'

For the first task judges Marcus Wareing and Gregg Wallace gave the five chefs a selection of nuts, including nut butter, to construct their chosen dishes in an attempt to impress.

While all the contestants decided to create a dessert, Tommy went against the grain and opted for a savoury duck dish.

'You absolutely smashed this brief to pieces,' exclaimed Marcus.

Next, Charlie created a frangipane tart while Cameron opted for a chocolate cremeux.

Dara's dessert unfortunately left the judges disappointed, while Rosie opted for an orange and pistachio frangipane, which blew the judges away.

Following the task, Greg announced that the chef that would be leaving the competition was Dara.

'I am disappointed in myself but there were four other chefs in the kitchen today and I knew what I was going up against. They are really great people,' he said.

Tough: The first quarter-final saw the strongest five chefs from the first two heats return to battle it out to secure their place in the final

During the episode, Cameron, 25, was up against stiff opposition as he went head-to-head with Rosie, 34, Dara, 36, Charlie, 22, and Tommy, 27

Departing the competition, he said: 'What an experience, having the space to put myself out there. I am very proud of myself!'

The four chefs through to the next round then had to impress three of the countries leading food critics: Jay Rayner, Leyla Kazim and Tracey MacLeod.

Tasked with creating a total of eight dishes in 1 hour and 15 minutes, the heat was on as the contestants prepared their two course menu.

Tommy admitted: 'The time frame is something that I am most worried about. I am organised and structured but in that kitchen anything can happen.'

Rosie decided to take the judges to Mexico with her menu, cooking up a scallop and tostada starter followed by pork cheek - that the critics branded 'perfect.'

Charlie later impressed with his ceviche starter and whole brill main course, with Marcus hailing it the 'dish of the day.'

Tommy then served up cured sea bass for his starter with the judges disagreeing on whether the watermelon complimented the fish or not.

However, his roast saddle of lamb proved to be a hit, receiving both the judges and the critics impressed.

Cameron chose cook a mackerel starter, followed by a monkfish main and while the judges agreed it was a 'decent dish' they were left underwhelmed as he played it safe.

It comes after MasterChef: The Professionals saw a very dramatic moment on Tuesday night's episode as one contestant had to leave one of the challenges on medical grounds after a nasty accident.

Brazilian chef Cristina Maia, 51, was left needing to see a doctor and pulled out of the Signature Menu round when her blender exploded covering her in boiling hot bisque.

Judge Gregg explained the nasty accident happened after she put the hot liquid into a blender and when she released the lid it shot out everywhere.

After the explosion she was covered in the orange liquid while the floor was splattered with mess.

Ouch: It comes after MasterChef saw a very dramatic moment on Tuesday night's episode as one contestant had to leave one of the challenges on medical grounds after a nasty accident

As soon as the accident happened one of the medical crew on set dashed over to assist her as he held a cold towel to her chin where most of the damage was.

Gregg could be heard screaming 'woah' as she apologised before he reassured her.

Later in the show the judges Gregg, Monica Galetti and Marcus Wareing discussed how it was a shame she couldn't carry on as Gregg quipped: 'Accidents happen!'

A snap then flashed up on the screen of Cristina at the hospital with a bandage over her chin as she bravely smiled.
Hollywood superstar Gwyneth Paltrow jetted into Sydney Airport on Friday morning, just hours before she's set to launch Jackie O Henderson's Besties business.

The 51-year-old actress kept warm in a long green jacket as she sheltered from the rainy weather under an umbrella and walked to an awaiting car.

The Iron Man star completed her comfortable look with beige pants and a matching coloured jumper.

She was simply glowing and revealed her flawless complexion as she went makeup free for the long flight.

Gwyneth left her blonde locks out and kept a low profile in sunglasses as she walked through the airport.

Makeup free Gwyneth Paltrow, 51, looked youthful and glowing as she jetted into Sydney, just hours before launching Jackie O Henderson's Besties business

Gwyneth has jetted into Sydney to launch Jackie O's new Besties business at the ICC Sydney on Friday night.

Jackie is launching her business with close friend Gemma O'Neill, which 'celebrates the most important relationship in your life - your best friend'.

In a post to Jackie's official Instagram account, she wrote that the Oscar winner was 'coming to Sydney this October for an exclusive visit to the @bestiesau stage.'

Her radio co-host Kyle Sandilands revealed he played a part in landing the A-lister, by 'charming' Gwyneth during a dinner in New York.

The 51-year-old kept warm in a long green jacket as she sheltered from the rainy weather under an umbrella and walked to an awaiting car

On Tuesday, Kyle asked Jackie's business partner Gemma to trick the radio star into thinking Gwyneth had cancelled her trip to Sydney.

During the prank, Gemma called Jackie and said: 'I've got some news and I'm going to just rip the bandaid off. So Gwyneth is going to have to cancel.'

'Wait what does that mean for us? They haven't given us any reason,' a disappointed Jackie responded.

'All they said it that they're really apologetic but there has been a confliction in her schedule,' Gemma continued.

A stunned Jackie said: 'A conflict, what? How can they do that? What happens now?'

'Are we liable? What's the situation? We aren't going to be able to find someone in time. Some people are flying from Melbourne and would have their flights booked.'

She left her blonde locks out and kept a low profile in dark sunglasses as she walked through the airport

'I actually feel sick,' she admitted.

Gemma then suggested she could trying contacting actress Drew Barrymore to see whether she'd be available.

'No people who are going to Gwyneth, want to see Gwyneth,' an unimpressed Jackie replied.

'Could we get her to do it over Zoom on the screen,' Gemma suggested.

An annoyed Jackie responded: 'No are you crazy. We would look like the laughing stock.'

Gemma then revealed she had been lying and Gwyneth was still coming to Sydney to launch their new business.

'What the f**k. I feel like crying I'm so relieved,' Jackie said.

Jackie is launching her business with close friend Gemma O'Neill, which 'celebrates the most important relationship in your life - your best friend'

Besties appears to be an event-based business which sells experiences for 'best friends' to create memories together.

The website said: 'Besties is a space that gives you and your BFF the perfect opportunity to spend more time with each other and create additional memories together.'

'Besties will bring you closer to extraordinary people at engaging events where we will welcome some of the most talked about and high-profile guest speakers to the stage, take you to the most breathtaking and exclusive destinations on group holiday adventures, plus spoil you with ranges of luxe products specifically and personally curated by us for you.'
Pete Davidson and John Mulaney pushed back the dates for their comedy show in Maine following the tragic mass shooting in the town of Lewiston on Wednesday.

John took to his Twitter on Thursday to announce the postponement with an emotional message.

'We are devastated by the events in Lewiston. Shows scheduled for this weekend in Maine on Saturday, 10/28 and Sunday, 10/29 have been postponed. We are thinking of you all. - John and Pete'.

The shows were scheduled for venues in the cities of Bangor and Portland, roughly 30 miles from the scene of the horrific incident which left 18 dead.

According to a post on Portland's Cross Insurance Arena website, information about possible make-up dates will be announced at some point in the near future.

Postponed: Pete Davidson and John Mulaney pushed back the dates for their comedy show in Maine following the tragic mass shooting in the town of Lewiston on Wednesday

Emotional: John took to his Twitter on Thursday to announce the postponement with an emotional message.

Devastating: 'We are devastated by the events in Lewiston. Shows scheduled for this weekend in Maine on Saturday, 10/28 and Sunday, 10/29 have been postponed. We are thinking of you all. - John and Pete'

The mass shootings took place at Schemengees Bar and Grille and the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley.

Authorities say a man named Robert Card fatally shot 18 people and injured 13. A massive manhunt is underway for the shooter.

The shooter was an Army reservist who had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July.

The shooting in the states second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year.

In August, it was announced Pete would join John and The Daily Show vet Jon Stewart for a short run of comedy shows.

The mini tour has been Jon, John & Pete.

The comedians started their run of four shows in Springfield, Mass., on Sept. 8 before doing two shows a night in Bethlehem, Penn., on Sept. 9 and in Atlantic City on Sept. 10.

The return to stage would be Pete's first tour since entering rehab earlier this summer.

The tour plan: In August, it was announced Pete would join John and The Daily Show vet Jon Stewart for a short run of comedy shows

First time back: The return to stage would be Pete's first tour since entering rehab earlier this summer

The SNL alum entered a rehab facility seeking assistance with post-traumatic stress disorder and borderline personality disorder, a diagnosis he revealed on Marc Maron's WTF podcast in 2017.

Pete recently hosted the Saturday Night Live season premiere on Oct. 14, his first time as host since leaving the famed sketch show.

He addressed 'the horrible images and stories from Israel and Gaza' in deeply personal remarks during the opening minutes.

In the emotional cold open, he discussed his firsthand experience dealing with tragedy and terrorism, sharing how the 9/11 loss of his father, Scott Davidson, a New York City firefighter, deeply affected him.
Joe Jonas was every inch the doting father as he wrapped his arms lovingly around his baby girl, Delphine, while stepping out in New York City on Thursday.

As he dutifully carried his one-year-old to his car, the 34-year-old musician appeared to be enjoying every minute with his youngest child, who he shares with estranged wife Sophie Turner.

For his laid-back outing, the Burnin' Up crooner sported an off-white jacket, matching shorts, a plain tee and black trucker hat.

The father-of-two paired his look with a pair of calf-length socks and glossy leather loafers.

Parenthood: Joe Jonas was every inch the doting father as he wrapped his arms lovingly around his baby girl, Delphine, while stepping out in New York City on Thursday

Delphine was dressed in an olive green long sleeve and black pants with white polka-dots on them.

As the day wore on, Joe was spotted surfacing solo after dark in the city that never sleeps with a canvas shopping bag in hand.

He threw a cherry red jacket over a plunging white undershirt, which he clashed stylishly against a pair of black trousers.

Shading his face with a baseball cap, he accessorized further with a striped necklace and popped in a pair of ear pods.

The performer's latest sightings comes just one week after he and Turner, 27, agreed to have two weeks at a time with their daughters until January.

They will also be allowed to travel to anywhere in the US and the UK, meaning that Turner can bring the girls to England, which she claims will be their 'forever home.'

While Jonas will get to take the girls on tour with his band The Jonas Brothers, Turner will get to spend Christmas with them in the UK with her family.

The agreement came after four days of intense mediation in New York, where the girls are currently staying with Turner. The resolution of custody of the children is expected to clear to way to finalizing the couples divorce.

Doting dad: As he dutifully carried his one-year-old to his car, the 34-year-old musician appeared to be enjoying every minute with his youngest child, who he shares with estranged wife Sophie Turner

Casual: For his laid-back outing, the Burnin' Up crooner an off-white jacket, matching shorts, a plain tee and black trucker hat

On the move: As the day wore on, Joe was spotted surfacing solo after dark in the city that never sleeps with a canvas shopping bag in hand

Hunk: Shading his face with a baseball cap, he accessorized further with a striped necklace and popped in a pair of ear pods

The court filing from Turner's lawyer Stephen Cullen called the mediation 'ongoing and productive' and that the custody sharing comes 'in anticipation of an amicable resolution of all issues'.

Cullen appears to have made good on his promise to 'bring down the mercury' made during a court hearing in New York earlier this month.

Jonas filed for divorce in Miami on September 1 with sources close to him claiming that Turner had been out partying too much, leaving him alone to look after their daughters.

Turner fired back accusing Jonas of refusing to hand over the girls' passports so they could return to England with her.

She cited an international child abduction law as grounds for the children being with her.

The split has sparked court proceedings in Miami, the UK and New York, which is where the child custody issue is being handled.

The court filing in New York states that both sides are engaged in mediation in the UK and the US.

Under the previous interim consent order, the girls had to stay in New York.

The second interim consent order, which both sides requested that a judge approve, states that both sides have agreed that the girls will be with Turner from October 9 to 21.

Turner may 'temporarily travel' with them to anywhere in the US or the UK but must return them to New York on the October 21 where they will be 'transferred' to Jonas.

The handover must take place at a time and location suitable to both parties, the filing states.

Co-parenting: His latest sighting comes just one week after he and Turner, 27, agreed to have two weeks at a time with their daughters until January; seen in 2022

Jonas will be with the children until November 2 when he or their nanny will bring them back to New York.

He will be able to travel anywhere in the US, meaning that the girls will be able to accompany him on his US tour with the Jonas brothers.

During those dates the group is scheduled to play in Austin, Texas; San Diego, California, and Anaheim, California.

On November 2 they are set to play in Fresno, California, which may explain why their nanny could return them to New York for the handover.

The document states that Turner will have the children for the following two weeks until November 22 and Jonas will have them for the next two weeks until December 16 under the same conditions.

Turner will get to spend Christmas with her daughters as she will be with them from December 16 until January 7, at which point she will have to return them to New York.

Temporary agreement: They will also be allowed to travel to anywhere in the US and the UK, meaning that Turner can bring the girls to England, which she claims will be their 'forever home'

A trial to resolve the custody matters is scheduled for January 2.

Previous legal filings have detailed how the couple's three year marriage rapidly broke up in August after Jonas reportedly saw Turner insulting him on their Ring camera.

He filed for divorce two weeks later claiming their relationship was 'irretrievably broken'.

But Turner responded with the lawsuit in New York.

In court papers she claimed that the couple sold their home in Miami in March and that they bought a $9million home near Oxford in the UK which they meant as their 'forever home'.

Turner went further in legal filings in Miami where she included a letter Jonas wrote to the seller of the property that showed him gushing about the prospect of living there.
She discussed her discovery that her father was not her biological parent in her memoir Thicker Than Water.

And Kerry Washington shed some light on why she spoke about the situation so publicly in a new interview with Harper's Bazaar UK.

She said: 'For a long time, it felt very right for me to maintain more privacy, particularly after my loss of anonymity.

'But then when my parents shared this information with me, to not be more transparent about the shifting nature in our family dynamic felt like I was perpetuating a false narrative that they had given me.

'I was ready to share more of myself as I was on this journey of self-discovery.'

Opening up: Kerry Washington says she publicly revealed her dad is not her biological father because she didn't want to 'perpetuate a false narrative'

The truth: The actress, 46, said she learned in 2018 that the man she called 'Dad' was not her biological father

The actress, 46, said she learned in 2018 that the man she called 'Dad' was not her biological father.

She revealed she learned the truth of her parentage some five years ago when she was invited to participate in an episode of Finding Your Roots, hosted on PBS by Dr. Henry Louis Gates

Speaking out: The star shed some light on why she spoke about the situation so publicly in a new interview with Harper's Bazaar UK

The show uses genealogical records and DNA results to track family histories.

'When I said, 'Spit in this tube,' they started freaking out,' Kerry told The New York Times about her parents' reaction to the DNA test.

'My mom was like, 'I didn't know that this was going to happen.''

The Prophecy star said her father began having panic attacks and suffering from insomnia, and decided to pull out of the show.

After being advised by Gates to reveal the information while all parties were still alive, her parents scheduled a meeting with the Emmy winner.

During their 2018 get together, Kerry's parents revealed they had used an anonymous sperm donor after they had trouble conceiving naturally.

It comes after Kerry said the reveal of a family secret launched her desire to write her new memoir, Thicker Than Water.

Kerry explained: 'I was ready to share more of myself as I was on this journey of self-discovery.'

During their 2018 get together, Kerry's parents revealed they had used an anonymous sperm donor after they had trouble conceiving naturally

The Reasonable Doubt director believes her subconscious reaction to the idea that something wasn't quite right may have contributed to her years of struggling with anxiety, self-esteem issues and an eating disorder.

Kerry has not yet been able to discover anything about the sperm donor.

After getting the information, the first time author decided to change the topic of her book.

She had originally signed on to write a manuscript based on the life lessons she learned playing Washington fixer Olivia Pope for six years on the hit drama Scandal.

'Any attempt I made to sit down and write about my life and not include this new information, it just felt impossible,' she told the Times.

'I tried to give the publisher their money back.'

Instead, she and Little, Brown Spark, settled on the memoir.

Kerry admits her parents are not crazy about her publishing a book that includes their family secrets, but are supportive of the effort.

She has also managed to put her father at ease about their relationship, telling him, 'I'm not going anywhere, you're not going anywhere, you're my dad. Now when I say 'I love you, it's not because of who you're pretending to be in my life, it's because of who you are.'

Stunning: During the Harper's Bazaar front cover shoot, Kerry put on a very leggy display in a lace maxi dress with a daring thigh-high split

Wow! In another snap, Kerry oozed confidence as she donned a backless black ball gown with pearl detail

During the Harper's Bazaar front cover shoot, Kerry put on a very leggy display in a lace maxi dress with a daring thigh-high split.

She then slipped into a glamorous metallic gown which shows off her incredible figure.

In another snap, Kerry oozed confidence as she donned a backless black ball gown with pearl detail.

Her long brunette locks were styled in a glamorous blow-dry and she accessorised with dazzling silver jewellery.
Sam Gowland has hit back at cruel trolls who mocked his 'natural' veneers, which cost 6,000.

The Geordie Shore star, 28, who initially shot to fame on Love Island, jetted off to Turkey to get his teeth done.

It's not the first time he's had some cosmetic surgery after undergoing a beard transplant last year which left him with a swollen face for weeks.

Defending his latest procedure, Sam furiously said in a video shared to his TikTok account: 'I'm starting to get a little bit p***ed off now if I'm honest with you. Every single time I do a TikTok or a video, people commenting.

'And I know it's for attention but people commenting saying, "worst teeth I've ever seen, they look like a packet of chewing gum, they look like a gumshield, they look like piano keys" but the teeth cost 6,000 to get done.'

Furious: Sam Gowland has hit back at cruel trolls who mocked his 'natural' veneers, which cost 6,000

Throwback: The Geordie Shore star, 28, who initially shot to fame on Love Island, jetted off to Turkey to get his teeth done (pictured in 2017)

He continued: 'There's a reason they cost that because I went to the best people in the world, I went to Turkey because that's where the best veneers are. How can you say that they do not look good?

'They are so white, they have the perfect sized gap in between and the shape is absolutely perfect and there's a reason people keep stopping me saying "where did you get your teeth done?" because they look so natural.

'That's what I got, they are natural look, so will people stop commenting about my teeth it is so annoying, they are good man, what is wrong with people.

'Now for the people commenting nice things if you want to se the behind-the-scenes where my teeth got shaved down go to my Instagram. Thanks for the people commenting nice stuff though.'

Earlier this summer, it was revealed that Sam is set to return to Geordie Shore four years after his explosive bust-ups with ex Chloe Ferry saw him get fired from the show.

The television personality, who also argued with some of the other Geordie Shore castmember, was given the boot in 2019 and has since appeared on Love Island.

However, he will be back for the new Geordie Shore series alongside his ex and may cause potential fireworks on the show.

Surgery: It's not the first time he's had some cosmetic surgery after undergoing a beard transplant last year which left him with a swollen face for weeks

Defending his latest procedure, Sam furiously said in a video shared to his TikTok account: 'I'm starting to get a little bit p***ed off now if I'm honest with you. Every single time I do a TikTok or a video, people commenting'

Speaking to the Sun , a source said: 'Sam flew out and surprised the cast in Cyprus - it was a total shock to everyone when he arrived, and extremely awkward for Chloe.

'Fans will love to see him back on screen but the cast were really shocked.'

The reality star was in Geordie Shore in its sixteenth series in 2018 but did not return to the show in 2019 after discussions with Chloe.

But when they briefly got back together, Sam, who met Chloe on the show in 2017, was involved in filming again.

However, Sam was suspended from Geordie Shore again in 2019 amid claims he had a major bust-up in the house sparking Chloe to quit .

The star was said to have got into the row because a fellow star mentioned his on/off flame Chloe had kissed another man on a Portugal night out while she and Sam were on a break from their romance.

Sam allegedly took it 'way too far' in a heated exchange when Chloe's kiss with a mystery man became hot topic of conversation once again, The Sun claimed.

A source told the publication: 'He got suspended again because it came out that Chloe snogged a random man during filming in Portugal...

'Everyone thought it had blown over but when he went back into the house it was mentioned and he hit the roof.

'Obviously the producers want fireworks but this was way too far, hence why Sam was slapped with another suspension.'

Ex: The television personality, 27, (pictured with Chloe in 2018) who also argued with some of the Geordie Shore cast, was given the boot in 2019 and has since appeared on Love Island

It emerged after claims Chloe had quit Geordie Shore again in protest after Sam was suspended from the show for being involved in a bust-up.

Insiders told The Sun that Chloe followed Sam as he left for a second time after a row broke out.

Sam had previously left the show just weeks before, following a row with Chloe, who he endured an on-off relationship with.

She herself quit the show after splitting from Sam but returned weeks after.
The old adage is that to get the best price on a flight you should book on a Tuesday, but experts suggest that while that is no longer true.

Instead, customers looking for the best price should be paying attention to when they are due to depart and return, according to travel booking app Hopper.

The platform investigated six months of historical air fare prices. It found that international travelers can save about 8 percent, or $76 per ticket, if they depart on Wednesday or Thursday instead of peak travel days like Friday and Saturday.

Returning midweek on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday would save travelers upwards of 14 percent off peak fares, or around $178 in savings per ticket.

Hopper found that international travelers can save about 8 percent, or $76 per ticket, if they depart on Wednesday or Thursday

Booking a domestic return on Tuesday saved travelers 15 percent on peak fares, or about $52 per ticket, Hopper found

Domestic travelers could save 15 percent or about $40 by departing on a cheaper day of the week: Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Booking a domestic return on Tuesday saved travelers 15 percent on peak fares, or about $52 per ticket, Hopper found.

Hayley Berg, Hopper's lead economist, told Bloomberg that in the modern airfare era, there can be numerous times in a week when the cheapest tickets may be available.

For example, Hopper looked at the popular round trip route from JFK in New York to Boston Logan and found that the cheapest price was often available at various times on different days - on average on 8 different days leading up to the flights departure.

Another myth she debunked was the idea that booking services and airlines monitor potential customers' browser activities and use cookies to hike prices when they return later.

Various booking platforms now allow buyers to view the price history of certain flights. Pictured is a TSA checkpoint in Denver, Colorado

She suggested that if someone notices a price increase after checking for flights a second time, it's most likely because lower priced seats set aside by the airline had sold out.

Nowadays, various booking platforms have built features that allow buyers to view the price history of certain flights.

Hopper offers a price prediction tool, which advises how low prices on a certain flight are likely to get, and how long before the flight they might start to pick up.

Google Flights can plot the historical prices of certain flights on given dates and advise buyers if current prices are high, low or typical.
Acapulco has collapsed: as Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, nicknamed AMLO, passed by, forced to complete his journey on foot in the mud to the seaside resort devastated by Hurricane Otis, residents told him part of their despair.

The head of state tried to travel by road on Wednesday afternoon to Acapulco, located about 400 kilometers from Mexico City, to assess the damage from the hurricane which cut off this city of some 780,000 people from the rest of the country. residents. The extent of the damage remains unknown in the absence of communications. But water, fallen rocks and uprooted trees hampered his convoy. He tried to continue in a military jeep, but the mud stopped him and he completed his journey to Acapulco on foot.

En route, the president was able to speak with residents who had gone looking for loved ones while all means of transport and communications were cut off in Acapulco. We will try to open [the paths] as quickly as possible, AMLO told journalists, accompanied in Acapulco by the ministers of defense, navy, public security and civil protection.

Residents in state of shock

The force 5 hurricane made landfall shortly after midnight local time (8 a.m. BST) on Wednesday, with wind gusts of up to 315 kilometers per hour, according to the Mexican government, before weakening as planned while progressing in the hinterland. It had formed very quickly in a few hours off the Pacific coast of Mexico.

Testimonies from residents show how much they were affected. We felt it very strongly, Israel Perez, a 21-year-old baker, told Agence France-Presse (AFP), who spoke of the din of unleashed monsters. We were in shock because we couldn't leave the house, many people were looking for shelter because of the strong flooding in the rivers, he adds.

Eric Hernandez, 24, walks back to his neighboring village after accompanying a relative to an Acapulco clinic just as the hurricane arrived. We were able to see how it (the hurricane) carried away the cars, he explains to AFP, his feet in the mud. The floor of the clinic was moving, he continues, we had to close the doors with what we found. As he returned to his village, he saw apartments ransacked and people fighting to recover belongings.

During a press conference on Wednesday, AMLO announced that it still had no details on the toll from the hurricane and possible victims, as communications remained cut off with Acapulco. We dont have any information yet, he said.

Were going to bring equipment, he said. The army is bringing machines, communications and transportation equipment, and we will try to reopen the highway [between Mexico City and Acapulco] as quickly as possible. 
The NGOs Human Rights Watch (HRW) and Amnesty International demanded, Thursday October 26, the immediate release of people arbitrarily detained in Niger by the military regime resulting from the July 26 coup, also denouncing a repression against journalists and opponents of power. The Nigerien authorities should release people arbitrarily detained, indicate the two NGOs in a press release. The military regime must enforce human rights and guarantee freedom of the press, said Ilaria Allegrozzi, Sahel researcher for HRW, quoted in the text.

The two NGOs recall that since the coup which overthrew him, President Mohamed Bazoum has been detained in his presidential residence with his wife and son. They add that several ministers of the fallen regime have been incarcerated in different prisons across the country. Amnesty and HRW consider their detentions to be arbitrary because they are politically motivated.

They also claim that authorities have threatened, harassed, intimidated and arbitrarily arrested journalists, young people and suspected political opponents, as well as people expressing critical opinions. Journalists in Niger are under increased pressure in the exercise of their activities, they underline, adding that local and international journalists have been threatened, verbally harassed online and physically attacked.

The two organizations mention the case of Nigerien journalist Samira Sabou, arrested on September 30 and charged in particular with production and dissemination of data likely to disturb public order, then provisionally released on October 11. They also denounce the suspension of the broadcasting of Radio France Internationale (RFI) and France 24, ordered by the military authorities at the beginning of August. Self-censorship has become a survival tactic for many of us, said a Nigerien journalist quoted by HRW.

Furthermore, NGOs report physical violence committed according to them by supporters of the regime in the streets of Niamey.
Crispin Blunt, an MP for the British Conservative Party, was arrested on Wednesday for rape and drug possession. The incident occurred on the same day as the suspension of another Tory MP, Peter Bone, for harassment and sexual misconduct against a male worker on his staff.

Scotland Yard, for its part, confirmed early Thursday afternoon the arrest of a man, on suspicion of rape and possession of "substances", without directly mentioning his status as a deputy. The detainee was released on bail and hours later his identity was confirmed on social networks.

Crispin Blunt, 63, former Secretary of State for Prisons, confirmed that he had been questioned on two occasions and assured that he has decided to collaborate with the ongoing investigation, although he avoided making any comment on his guilt or innocence. The deputy is the uncle of the renowned British-American actress Emily Blunt, winner of a Golden Globe.

Another conservative parliamentarian was also arrested in May 2022 for sexual assault and rape, although he has not yet been indicted and his case is under investigation. His name was not made public after a year and a half.

This week's arrest is in any case the latest in a successive chain of sexual scandals involving conservative MPs, such as Chris Pincher, suspended for touching two men when he was drunk in a club. His case contributed to the fall as Prime Minister of Boris Johnson, who promoted him in the parliamentary group despite his record of inappropriate behavior, in the final stretch of Partygate.

Two other Tory MPs have been held accountable before the courts and ended up behind bars in the last term in as many sexual scandals. Charlie Elphicke was sentenced in 2020 to two years in prison for three counts of sexual assault of two women. The most notorious case, however, was that of Imran Ahmad Khan, sentenced to 18 months for sexual assault of a 15-year-old boy.
The maneuver by Pedro Sanchez's government to have the European Union (EU) withdraw the sanctions imposed against the Bolivarian revolution has provoked the response of Maria Corina Machado, the new opposition leader after sweeping the primary elections last Sunday. "It is very difficult for them to get out of clean and free elections, in which their own allies, called Lula (da Silva, president of Brazil), (Gustavo) Petro (president of Colombia), AMLO (Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, president of Mexico), Alberto Fernandez (president of Argentina) or the Spanish government itself are encouraging them to comply. The conclusion of the Bogota Conference of the 20 countries present, including the allies of the regime, is that we must go to elections," Machado said during an interview with CNN.

The initiative of Jose Manuel Albares, Minister of Foreign Affairs, contemplates that Brussels does not extend for another year the sanctions that prevent 55 members of the revolutionary elite from traveling to the EU, including Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, generals, judges and several of the best-known torturers of the Chavista repressive system. The sanctions also include an arms embargo, with the aim of stopping internal repression.

The excuse used by Albares to take this step, which has fallen like a bomb among the opposition and civil society, is based on "the recent decisions of the United States and given the positive evolution of the dialogue between Venezuelans."

"The classification of the Spanish government as an ally of Maduro is striking because it was one of the 12 countries that sent a diplomatic representative to a meeting with Machado in his campaign command on October 24," stressed Mariano de Alba, senior advisor of the CrisisGroup. In fact, the Spanish diplomat was the only one of those mentioned who attended that meeting, in which only Panama, Peru and the Dominican Republic took part in Latin America.

"Although reports have emerged of alleged opposition from Germany and the Netherlands to a Spanish plan to lift sanctions on Venezuela, there is agreement in Europe that given the US response and if the implementation of the Barbados Agreement advances, the EU will also act," De Alba reveals.

A dialogue that only nine days after the signing of Barbados is once again in crisis, after the furious attack of Chavismo against the National Primary Commission (CNP), responsible for the historic feat of the opposition's self-managed elections, carried out against the wind. and tide and who garnered 2.5 million votes. The Attorney General's Office of the Republic accuses the members of the CNP of usurpation of functions, identity theft, money laundering and criminal association. Maduro's allies demand his immediate arrest.

Among the accused is in the front row the president of the CNP, Jesus Maria Casal, dean of the Law School of the Andres Bello Catholic University who has become a popular hero today. Casal has conducted an almost impossible process, with the help of thousands of volunteers and witnesses and without the support of the National Electoral Council (CNE), which forced the use of all types of facilities to house the 5,000 electoral centers. Among them the homes of sympathizers in the most popular neighborhoods in the country, despite threats from the Chavismo communal councils.

"We are facing a violation of the Barbados Agreements," Machado insisted yesterday during her proclamation as a unitary opposition candidate. Gerardo Blyde, head of the opposition negotiating delegation, has a very similar opinion, who has repeated that the judicialization of "an internal process protected by the agreement can imply a serious problem for its compliance, which is why we will complain to the verification and monitoring commission in a manner overwhelming".

Chavismo ensures ad nauseam that Machado will not be a candidate for anything in the world; even Jorge Rodriguez, head of the Chavista negotiating commission, appeared on public television to ensure that there is no dialogue with "fascists."

"Without having divinatory gifts, I believe that after a brief promise of opening, Venezuela is moving towards a model similar to the Nicaraguan one. The harshest ones will make it impossible for Machado to participate in elections. Its costs are very high," predicted political scientist Angel Alvarez.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 400 million loan to support the Indian government's urban reform agenda for creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient governance systems.

The programme also envisages integrated urban planning reforms to control urban sprawls and foster systemic and planned urbanisation through enhancing the entire ecosystem of legal, regulatory, and institutional reforms along with capacity building of ULBs and community awareness, ADB said.

"The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 400 million policy-based loan to India for Sub-programme 2 of the Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme.

"The programme aims to support the government's urban reform agenda for improving the quality of urban life through the creation of high-quality urban infrastructure, assured public services, and efficient governance systems," ADB said.

While Subprogramme 1, approved in 2021, established national-level policies and guidelines to improve urban services, Subprogramme 2 is supporting investment planning and reform actions at the state and urban local body (ULB) levels.

"India has recognised the potential for cities to be centres of economic growth and has emphasised the need to make cities livable through inclusive, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure, which is also in line with ADB Strategy 2030," ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist Sanjay Joshi said.
PNB reports 327 per cent jump in Q2 profit

New Delhi: Punjab National Bank (PNB) reported 327.14 per cent jump in its net profit to Rs 1,756 crore in the September quarter. The bank's net profit in the year-ago quarter was Rs 411.27 crore. PNB's interest income rose 31 per cent to Rs 26,355 crore during the second quarter of the current fiscal, against Rs 20,154 crore a year ago. Gross NPAs as percentage of total loans declined to 6.96 per cent at the end of September, from 10.48 per cent last year.

Moot court competition at Manav Sthali

New Delhi: Manav Sthali School proudly hosted an exhilarating and highly successful 2nd Dr VK Bhatnagar Memorial Moot Court Competition under Manifestations- the month-long October Fest 2023. This witnessed distinguished luminaries of the legal world, including a sitting High Court Judge, Hon'ble Justice Vikas Mahajan and Dr. Pradeep Kulshreshtha, Dean of the School of Law, Bennett University, graced the occasion as Chief Guests. The event saw participation from 16 schools from across the region in a competition that featured two rounds.

PFC signs MoU with Ministry of Power

New Delhi: Power Finance Corporation Limited signed an MoU with the Ministry of Power (MoP) for FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25 on 23 rd October 2023 as per the DPE's performance evaluation system. The MoU was signed by Pankaj Agarwal, Secretary, Power and Parminder Chopra (CMD, PFC) in the presence of senior officials of the Ministry of Power and PFC. PFC is the largest Maharatna CPSE and largest NBFC in India on a consolidated basis.

Sellers see 70 per cent rise

NEW DELHI: Sellers under the Walmart Vriddhi Supplier Development Program have recorded a year-on-year increase of over 70 per cent in sales through Flipkart's Big Billion Days Sale. Launched in 2019, Walmart Vriddhi said it has empowered 40,255 MSMEs, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital age. "This milestone reinforces our belief in the potential of these businesses to drive innovation and create lasting impact," said Jason Fremstad, Senior VP, Walmart Sourcing.
Government think tank NITI Aayog has initiated a study to develop a comprehensive action plan to bridge India's trade deficit with China over time and align trading strategies with emerging geopolitical situation and potential risks to safeguard supply chains.

The Aayog has invited bids from consultants to lead the two studies in areas of reducing trade gap with China and boosting local manufacturing.

The move also comes against the backdrop of simmering tensions between India and China since the Galwan clash in June 2020.

"The centrality of China to lndia's supply chain in certain industries raises dependency and vulnerability of the lndian supply chains and production networks particularly during crisis situations such as the COVID-I9 and geopolitical conflicts.

"The study would aim to develop a comprehensive action plan to bridge the trade deficit over time and align trading strategies with emerging geopolitical situation and potential risks to safeguard supply chains," the Aayog said in a notice posted on its website.

The terms of reference of study includes analysing the trends in India-China trade (at product category level) over the recent years to discern patterns of trade dependency and underlying reasons for the same.

The study will analyse the supply chains of India-China trade and also comparable supply chains of India's trade with other Asian countries to derisk India's trade.

It will also examine product categories where India has comparative advantage and a sizeable market in China to scale up exports to China.

According to the Aayog, the study should recommend key policies to boost domestic production and productivity in sectors comparable to the global economy not only to reduce the trade deficit with China, but also to capitalise on global supply chain shifts.

"(The study should) analyse the type and quantum off foreign investment which may bridge the technology gap and utilise the abundant domestic manpower for competitive products. Provide recommendations to resolve the same," NITI Aayog said.

The study will also have to examine tariff, non-tariff barriers, regulatory ecosystem and market access concerns for Indian exports to China.

Besides, it will have to recommend measures to enable India to diversify supply chains to India, while pointing out what are the sectors to focus, incentives to offer and reforms required to achieve the objective of attracting global supply chains to India.

India's merchandise trade with the world reached more than USD I trillion in 2021-22. During the year, India exported USD 422 billion worth of goods while importing USD 613 billion, implying a merchandise trade deficit of USD 191 billion.

About 38 per cent (USD 73.3 billion) of India's merchandise trade deficit was with China alone in 2021-22. During 2022-23, India exported USD 450 billion worth of goods while importing USD 714 billion, implying a trade deficit of USD 263 billion.

About 32 per cent (USD 83.1 billion) of India's merchandise trade deficit was with China alone in 2022-23. In 2022-23, among top trading partners, India has the highest trade deficit with China.

On analysing the composition of exports and imports with China, it's observed that India largely imports capital goods (USD 47 billion in 2021) from China, followed by intermediate goods (USD 30 billion), consumer goods (USD 9.4 billion) and raw materials (USD I billion), while it mainly exports intermediate

goods (USD I I billion) to China followed by raw

materials (USD 6 billion), consumer goods (USD 3.4 billion) and capital goods (USD 2.4 billion).

India had a trade deficit with China in three of these four product groups in 2021, namely, capital goods (USD 45 billion), intermediate goods (USD l9 billion) and consumer goods (USD 6 billion).

Indian and Chinese troops clashed along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Tawang sector of Arunachal Pradesh on December 9, 2022 and the face-off resulted in "minor injuries to a few personnel from both sides", according to the Indian Army.

The terms of reference of 'Research Study on sectors for India to be Global Manufacturing Hub' include mapping India's manufacturing sector with Global landscape and identifying at least 12 sectors which have the potential to transform the country into a manufacturing hub.

Furthermore, the study will also have to recommend strategies and interventions to overcome challenges and promote growth in the identified sectors in order to make India a global manufacturing hub.
A simple act of giving is much more than just an act of compassion

India, a land known for its rich tapestry of traditions and cultures, is also renowned for its deep-rooted spiritual heritage. Among the various customs and rituals that have been practiced for centuries, the tradition of "'Dana'" holds a special place. 'Dana', which translates to "giving" or "charity," is a significant practice in India that transcends the boundaries of religion, caste, and creed. It is deeply embedded in the spiritual fabric of the nation, fostering compassion, selflessness, and unity among its people.

'Dana', as a tradition, encompasses various forms of charitable acts, including donating food, money, clothes, and other essentials to those in need. The core philosophy of 'Dana' is to give without expecting anything in return. This selfless act of giving is believed to purify the soul, strengthen the sense of community, and create a more compassionate and equitable society.

Across Religions

One of the remarkable aspects of 'Dana' in India is its universality. It transcends religious boundaries and is practiced across different faiths.

1.Hinduism: In Hinduism, the concept of 'Dana' is deeply rooted in the belief in karma and dharma. The act of giving is seen as a duty and a means of purifying one's soul. During festivals and rituals, Hindus often perform 'Dana', offering food, clothing, or money to the less fortunate.

2.Buddhism: 'Dana' is one of the fundamental virtues in Buddhism. Buddhists believe in the importance of generosity and selflessness. Monks and laypeople alike engage in acts of 'Dana' to accumulate merit and practice the teachings of the Buddha.

3.Sikhism: The Sikh tradition promotes selfless service and giving. The concept of "Langar" in Sikhism, where free meals are provided to all visitors at the community kitchen in Sikh gurudwaras, is a significant example of 'Dana'. It symbolises equality, humility, and community service.

4.Jainism: 'Dana' is an integral part of Jainism, which emphasises non-violence and compassion. Jains believe in giving to the less fortunate, not just material possessions but also sharing knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual guidance.

5.Islam and Christianity: Even in religions like Islam and Christianity, charity is a cornerstone of the faith. Muslims practice "Zakat," a form of almsgiving, while Christians are encouraged to tithe, which involves giving a portion of their income to those in need.

Spiritual Significance

The act of giving in the tradition of 'Dana' holds profound spiritual significance in India:

1.Purification of the Soul: 'Dana' is considered a means to purify one's soul. It is believed that by giving, one sheds their attachment to material possessions and cultivates a sense of detachment, ultimately leading to spiritual growth.

2.Karma and Dharma: The concept of karma (the law of cause and effect) and dharma (duty) plays a pivotal role in the act of giving. By fulfilling their dharma and performing acts of 'Dana', individuals accumulate positive karma, which is believed to influence their future lives.

3.Unity and Compassion: 'Dana' fosters a sense of unity and compassion within society. It brings people from different backgrounds together, highlighting the common human bond and promoting a sense of responsibility towards one another. 4.Happiness and Inner Fulfillment: Many find a deep sense of happiness and inner fulfillment in the act of giving. The joy of helping others and making a positive impact on their lives is considered a source of spiritual contentment.

'Dana', the tradition of giving in India, is a powerful testament to the spiritual and ethical values that have shaped the nation for millennia. It transcends religious, social, and economic boundaries, promoting compassion, selflessness, and unity among people.

(The writer is spiritual guide; views are personal)
The methods of war in Gaza have been shameful as many innocent lives have been lost. Humanity must survive the madness of war

As was expected, the so-called 'ground invasion' by Israel has been delayed again, and the reasons are well understandable. The tactical and strategic situation right now warrants a pause in hostilities. Tactically speaking, fighting in a built-up area (FIBUA) is one of the toughest kinds of warfare, often even tougher than jungle warfare. From the Israeli perspective, the release of 220 hostages has to be the top priority, even before any ground operation is launched. The international community, however, must focus on how there is minimum loss of life of the civilian population.

The UN has been calling the situation in Gaza catastrophic and one that is growing more dire by the hour, repeating the call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. However, the situation on the ground keeps on getting worse by the day, with reports of more and more civilian casualties being reported across the length and breadth of Gaza. So, what is the way forward? Is the ground invasion by Israel imminent? Will the humanitarian crisis in Gaza get worse? Will the hostages be released and will the aid reach the people who require it the most? What is the UN doing to neutralise the situation? What are the leaders across the world doing to prevent the war from spreading? What does it mean for the Russia-Ukraine war?

These are some of the questions that are going to confront the world in the coming few weeks and the answers to these questions are going to be critical for world peace in the long run. Russia has put forward a draft resolution for consideration before the United Nations Security Council which calls for an immediate ceasefire and allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. However, this effort may give little result, as Russia itself is involved in Ukraine, and the US, UK and France are likely to oppose any resolution coming from Russia's table. Arab countries have also moved a resolution on similar lines, which also calls for recognition of the state of Palestine.

This resolution is to be placed in the general assembly and may not be voted for. So, this resolution may not cease the hostilities either. The UN needs to seriously reflect upon its ability to handle the crisis and deploy mechanisms to rise above geopolitics when basic human rights are at risk for a large population. The UN also needs to expand its security council keeping in mind the rising significance of the 'Global South'. Amendment to the constitution of the UN is the need of the hour and the world leaders must live up to this need.

Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have clearly stated that the war should not be escalated. However, the involvement of Iran in the conflict can not be ruled out, which further threatens to increase the canvas of the war manifold. So, the way forward looks gloomy and more civilian casualties are likely. Amid Israels intelligence failure and the resurgence of armed groups in the Palestinian territories, recent events highlight diplomatic inaction over the last many years. These events highlight the failure of successive governments and the UN.

The rise of armed groups in the occupied territories is over a decade-old phenomenon and points towards a collective system failure. The Palestinian issue has always been managed, and there has never been a serious effort towards resolution. This time it calls for serious crisis management before a resolution can be reached. Few hostages have been released by Hamas and some aid has been allowed in, which are positive steps in the direction of crisis management and hopefully will prevent a catastrophe from happening. Some of the hostages have not been ill-treated, this is again a positive development that could go a long way in soothing some of the wounds.

Ground invasion by the IDF at this stage is not a good move in the overall picture, because not only does it threaten the war to go to the next level, it also is sure to inflict more casualties not only on the IDF but also on the civilians. No doubt Hamas needs to be punished for the barbaric attack on villages and non-combatants, but ground assault is not the answer to it.

IDF needs to do more surgical strikes, making sure that none of the non-combatants are harmed in these strikes. A surgical strike on pinpoint targets looks like the only viable option shortly, as ground assault could further complicate the situation. Hybrid warfare includes a religious, legal humanitarian, military, political and diplomatic angle and this war in the Middle East has all the associated tenants. Hamas has also mastered the art of creating a narrative.

In FIBUA, all the tenets of asymmetric warfare would be put to use which could spiral into a point of no return and could convert this battle into a long-drawn-out conflict zone. IDF must step back and then leap forward, as taking a giant leap forward without seeing a landing ground may land them in trouble and in turn be harmful to the entire region. Hence, it would be reasonable for the IDF to wait and watch and improve upon their intelligence network and get pinpoint information and then only conduct surgical strikes rather than plan a ground invasion and bomb indiscriminately. Surgical strikes, taking embedded journalists along, on the top leadership of Hamas would do their narrative a world of good and reduce non-combatant casualties as well. The world is watching how the situation will fan out in the days to come. The methods of war over the last 20 days since the morning of October 7 have been shameful. This is a reflection point for humanity and we must shun war.

(The writer is expert on geopolitics and international Affairs. The views expressed are personal)
The pesticides not only affect the health of those who consume these farm produce, but also the farmers who use them

Success in agriculture is closely linked to increased use of pesticides. Even though humans have been using chemicals for controlling pests since time immemorial, the rampant use of toxic chemicals like arsenic, mercury, lead etc started during the early 20th century. The green revolution that focussed on increasing the productivity of crops expedited its usage. Pesticides are chemical compounds specifically formulated to combat and eliminate pests.

This category includes a wide range of substances used to control and eliminate many types of organisms, such as plants, insects, nematodes, molluscs, fish, birds, rodents, bacteria, fungi, and lampreys. Herbicides are the most widespread type of pesticide, accounting for nearly 50% of pesticide consumption worldwide.

Predominantly, pesticides are designed to serve as botanical defence agents, shielding plants from the threats of weeds, fungi, or insects. A pesticide is a chemical molecule, like carbamate, or a biological agent, such as a virus, bacterium, or fungus, that prevents, incapacitates, eliminates, or otherwise discourages pests.

Various scientific studies have shown that pesticide exposure is linked with health issues like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, birth diseases, reproduction disorders etc. They even harm the ecosystem balance. Presently every vegetable, fruit or spice that is produced in our country has the residues of pesticides. The pesticides not only affect the health of the consumers, but they also badly affect the farmers who use them. The farmers are exposed through skin, inhalation and ingestion during the application of these pesticides.

The common adage An apple a day keeps the doctor away is no longer relevant today. Millions of tonnes of chemicals like chlorpyrifos, mancozeb, captan, dimethoate, phosalone etc are used by the orchard farmers in the once pristine Kashmir valley itself.

The unscrupulous use of these chemicals has resulted in the increased incidence of brain tumours among the orchard farmers. In spices like cardamom that everyone chews raw as a mouth freshener, the presence of highly toxic cypermethrin has been reported. Sometimes the adverse effects of these pesticides are so severe that it is affecting many generations. For example, the notorious case of aerial spraying of endosulfan in Kerala for over 20 years, caused congenital anomalies associated with the brain, like mental retardation and cerebral palsy.

Even though the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has outlined instructions for the safe use of pesticides, which include the use of protective clothing to cover the whole body while handling, these are not effective and mostly not followed in principle. Even in farms managed by the government, no one is concerned about the lives of farmers or workers. A few years back researchers at the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine (InStem), Bangalore led by Praveen K. Vemula developed a gel, poly-Oxim, to give protection to farmers. The gel functions as a catalyst to render organophosphate inactive. Unfortunately, these technologies have not reached the grassroots level.

Unlike medicines prescribed for human consumption that need the prescription of a qualified medical practitioner, pesticides can be easily bought directly from the stockist. The government needs to restrict the sale of pesticides. The pesticides should be sold only with a prescription from a local agriculture officer or recognised agricultural graduate. This will reduce the unscrupulous use of these toxic chemicals. The Govt should promote organic farming by providing incentives to farmers.

(The writer is an adjunct faculty at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluruc; views are personal)
Canada has welcomed India's decision to resume some visa services in the country from Thursday, saying the move was a "good sign" after "an anxious time" for many Canadians, amid a diplomatic row over the killing of a Sikh separatist.

India's high commission in Canada said on Wednesday that the country's officials will resume processing some types of visa applications for Canadians applying from across the country as well as abroad.

The decision came a month after New Delhi suspended the services in Canada and for Canadian citizens worldwide as tensions flared between the two nations last month following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of the "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 in British Columbia.

India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected Trudeau's allegations as "absurd" and "motivated".

On Wednesday afternoon, Immigration Minister Marc Miller called India's move "a good sign" after "an anxious time" for his many Canadians.

"Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place," he was quoted as saying by CTV News.

He said the "really concerning diplomatic situation with India has created a lot of fear in a lot of communities."

Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan, who is also a Sikh, said the resumption of visa processing is good news, but wouldn't speculate on what message New Delhi is trying to send.

"It's good to see that they have resumed that. It would have been nice (if) they didn't take it in the first place," Sajjan told reporters.

He said it was important that Indians and Canadians can go back and forth when it comes to events like weddings and funerals.

He added that Ottawa is still seeking India's help as police investigate the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

India will resume services for entry visas, business visas, medical visas and conference visas.

Marilyne Guevremont, a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada (GAC) - the department that manages the country's diplomatic and consular relations, told CBC News that GAC is aware of the Indian government's "decision to resume certain categories of visa processing for Canadians."

"Canada and India share important people-to-people ties and India's resumption of visa services will make it easier for families and businesses to travel between our countries," Guevremont.

In a statement, the Canada-India Business Council said it was "a promising development" for trade relations.

"It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times," wrote council head Victor Thomas.

The development came days after Canada pulled out 41 of its diplomats from India.

Before Trudeau's announcement dramatically heightened tensions between Canada and India, New Delhi had publicly denounced protests by Sikh separatist groups outside its diplomatic missions in Canada, as well as posters that appeared to offer cash rewards in exchange for the home addresses of Indian diplomats.

India formally called on Canada to better uphold its duty to protect foreign diplomats.

India had also asked Canada to come down hard on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians.
Eight former Indian Navy personnel were on Thursday handed death penalty in Qatar by a local court, a verdict that India described as "deeply" shocking.

The Indian nationals, all employees of Al Dahra company, were taken into custody in August last year in an alleged case of espionage. The charges against the Indian nationals were not made public by Qatari authorities.

In its reaction, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is attaching "high importance" to this case and is exploring all legal options.

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," it said.

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it said.

The MEA said it will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance to the Indians.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it said in a statement.

"Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," it added.

India's ambassador to Qatar met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access. A court in Qatar gave death penalty to the eight former Indian Navy personnel who have been held on unspecified charges since August 2022, external affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said on Thursday.
US President Joe Biden has said that he is convinced that one of the reasons why Hamas launched a terrorist attack on Israel was because of the recent announcement during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region with a network of railroads.

Israel has launched a massive counter-offensive against Hamas after unprecedented attacks by the militant group on October 7 killed more than 1,400 people.

Biden told reporters at a joint news conference with the visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that his analysis is based on his instinct and does not have any proof for this.

I am convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We cant leave that work behind, Biden said.

This is the second time in less than a week that Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a potential reason for the terrorist attack by Hamas.

The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.

The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe.

Biden said in the past few weeks, he has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure theres real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well.

Earlier, in a joint news conference with visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Biden said, Israel has the right, and I would add responsibility, to respond to the slaughter of their people, and we will ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself against these terrorists. That's a guarantee, Biden said.

However, he spoke out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the Hamas attacks on Israel.
Israeli troops and tanks briefly raided northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several Hamas militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield before a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes.

The raid came after the UN warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts.

Gaza has been under a brutal siege  running out of food, water and medicine  since Hamas bloody rampage across southern Israel earlier this month ignited the war.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said on Thursday more than 7,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict, a figure that could not be independently verified.

Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

Israeli airstrikes in the southern city of Khan Younis levelled more than eight homes belonging to an extended family, killing at least 15 people. Ambulances raced to the scene as dust from the collapsing buildings hung in the air.

The conflict has threatened to ignite a wider war across the region. Hezbollah, an Iranian-funded ally of Hamas operating out of Lebanon, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel along the border. Israel has carried out airstrikes in Lebanon, Syria and even the occupied West Bank.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas capacity to govern Gaza or threaten Israel again, while also saying it doesnt want to reoccupy the territory from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005.

That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Palestinian society, with political and charity organisations as well as a formidable armed wing.

The blast zone was a chaotic wasteland of crumbled concrete and twisted metal. Rescuers carried wounded people covered in gray dust.

The body of a boy was dug out from beneath a concrete slab, where his head had come to rest next to the foot of another person entombed in the wreckage.

The Israeli military has claimed that it only strikes Hamas

militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely-populated Gaza.
The UN agency for Palestinian refugees warned on Wednesday that without immediate deliveries of fuel it will soon have to sharply cut back relief operations across the Gaza Strip, which has been blockaded and hit by devastating Israeli airstrikes since Hamas militants launched an attack on Israel more than two weeks ago.

The warning came as hospitals in Gaza struggled to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources, and health officials in the Hamas-ruled territory said the death toll was soaring as Israeli jets continued striking the territory overnight into Wednesday.

Israeli officials were outraged on Wednesday over UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres comment that the deadly Hamas attack on southern Israel did not happen in a vacuum, calling it justification for terrorism. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen cancelled a scheduled meeting with Guterres while Yad Vashem, Israels Holocaust memorial, said the UN chief failed the test.

I will not meet with the UN secretary-general. After the October 7 massacre, there is no place for a balanced approach. Hamas must be erased off the face of the planet! Cohen posted on social platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

Israels envoy to the UN Gilad Erdan called for his resignation, saying Israel must rethink its relations with the world body. We will refuse to grant visas to UN representatives. We have already refused to give one to Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths, Erdan told Army Radio, accusing Guterres of justifying a slaughter. Its time to teach them a lesson.

The Israeli military said its strikes had killed militants and destroyed tunnels, command centres, weapons storehouses and other military targets, which it has accused Hamas of hiding among Gazas civilian population. Gaza-based militants have been launching unrelenting rocket barrages into Israel since the conflict started.

The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said the airstrikes killed at least 704 people between Monday and Tuesday, mostly women and children. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

The death toll was unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come when Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas militants.

In Washington, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters the US could not verify the one-day death toll.

The Ministry of Health is run by Hamas, and I think that all needs to be factored into anything that they put out publicly.

Israel said on Tuesday it had launched 400 airstrikes over the past day, an increase from the 320 strikes the day before.

The UN says about 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents are now internally displaced, with almost 600,000 crowded into UN shelters.

Gazas residents have been running out of food, water and medicine since Israel sealed off the territory following the attack on southern Israel by Hamas, which is sworn to Israels destruction.

In recent days, Israel allowed a small number of trucks filled with aid to come over the border with Egypt but barred deliveries of fuel, needed to power hospital generators, to keep it out of Hamas hands.

The UN said it had managed to deliver some of the aid in recent days to hospitals treating the wounded. But the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, the largest provider of humanitarian services in Gaza, said it was running out of fuel.

Officials said they were forced to reduce their operations as they rationed what little fuel they had.

Without fuel our trucks cannot go around to further places in the strip for distribution, said Lily Esposito, a spokesperson for the agency.

We will have to make decisions on what activities we keep or not with little fuel.

Meanwhile, more than half of Gazas primary healthcare facilities, and roughly a third of its hospitals, have stopped functioning, the World Health Organisation said.

Overwhelmed hospital staff struggled to triage cases as constant waves of wounded were brought in. The Health Ministry said many wounded are laid on the ground without even simple medical aid and others wait for days for surgeries because there are so many critical cases.

The Health Ministry says more than 5,700 Palestinians have been killed in the war, including some 2,300 minors. The figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel - mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas is also holding some 222 people that it captured and brought back to Gaza.

The conflict threatened to spread across the region, as Israeli airstrikes hit Syrian military sites in the south Wednesday, killing eight soldiers and wounding seven, according to Syrias state-run SANA news agency.

The Israeli military said in a post on X, its jets had struck Syrian military infrastructure and mortar systems in response to rocket launches from Syria.

Israel has launched several strikes on Syria in recent days, including strikes that put the Damascus and Aleppo airports out of service, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been fighting the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah across the Lebanese border in recent weeks.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah met on Wednesday with top Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad officials in their first reported meeting since the war started. Such a meeting could signal coordination between the groups, as Hezbollah officials warned Israel against launching a ground offensive in Gaza.

Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Iran was helping Hamas, with intelligence and by whipping up incitement against Israel across the world. He said Iranian proxies were also operating against Israel from Iraq, Yemen and Lebanon.

Fighting also erupted in the West Bank, which has seen a major spike in violence.

Islamic Jihad militants said they fought with Israeli forces in Jenin overnight.

The Palestinian Health Ministry in the West Bank said Israel killed four Palestinians in Jenin, including a 15-year-old, and two others in other towns. That brought the total number of those killed in the occupied West Bank since October 7 to 102.

Across central and south Gaza, where Israel told civilians to take shelter, there were multiple scenes of rescuers pulling the dead and wounded out of large piles of rubble from collapsed buildings. Graphic photos and video shot by the AP showed rescuers unearthing bodies of children from multiple ruins.

A father knelt on the floor of the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah next to the bodies of three dead children cocooned in bloodied sheets. Later at the nearby morgue, workers prayed over 24 dead wrapped in body bags, several of them the size of small children.

Buildings that collapsed on residents killed dozens at a time in several cases, witnesses said. Two families lost 47 members in a leveled home in Rafah, the Health Ministry said.

In Gaza City, at least 19 people were killed when an airstrike hit the house of the Bahloul family, according to survivors, who said dozens more remained buried. The legs of a dead woman and another person, both still half buried, dangled out of the wreckage where workers dug through the dirt, concrete and rebar.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen told the UN Security Council on Tuesday that the proportionate response to the October 7 attack is a total destruction of the militants. It is not only Israels right to destroy Hamas. Its our duty, he said.

On Wednesday, Israels UN ambassador, Gilad Erdan, said his country will stop issuing visas to UN personnel after UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that Hamas attack did not happen in a vacuum. It was unclear what the action, if followed through with, would mean for UN aid personnel working in Gaza and the West Bank.

Its time to teach them a lesson, Erdan told Army Radio, accusing the UN chief of justifying a slaughter.

The UN chief told the Security Council on Tuesday that the Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. Guterres also said the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.
A local court in Qatar has sentenced eight former Indian Navy personnel to death allegedly on charges of espionage. India on Thursday said it is deeply shocked and is exploring all legal options in the case. The eight personnel have been held in a Qatari jail since August 2022, and charges against them have reportedly not been made public by the authorities in Qatar.

We have received initial information that the Court of First Instance in Qatar has today issued a judgment in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company, said the External Affairs Ministry on Thursday in a statement.

We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed

judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, said the External Affairs Ministry.

The men, including decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatars armed forces. Some of them were working on a highly sensitive project  Italian technology-based midget submarines with stealth characteristics, sources said.

The company was owned by an Omani national, a retired squadron leader of the Royal Omani Air Force. He too was arrested along with the eight Indians, but was released in November, it was learnt.

The Indians bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention extended by Qatari authorities. On Thursday, the Court of First Instance of Qatar passed a judgment.

Indias Ambassador to Qatar met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access. The seventh hearing in the case took place on October 3, sources said. The trial started in March.

Commander (retired) Purnendu Tiwari, who is among the detained Indians, served as Al Dahras managing director and commanded several warships while serving with the Indian Navy.

The sentenced people include Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh. They were detained in Doha.

It was also learnt that an Indian journalist and his spouse were recently asked by Qatari authorities to leave the country for reporting the case. The Indian nationals had their first trial in late March. Meetu Bhargava, the sister of one of the officers, had sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back.

In a post on X on June 8, Bhargava had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.

These former Navy officers are the pride of the nation, and again I request our Honble Prime Minister with folded hands that it is high time that they all are brought back to India immediately without any further delay pl. @narendramodi @AmitShah @rajnathsingh @MOS_MEA, she had posted on X.

According to media reports, the former Navy officials faced allegations of espionage related to a submarine programme on Israels behalf. Qatari authorities claimed that they hold electronic evidence pertaining to the matter. The men were reportedly accused of spying on Qatars advanced submarines for Israel.

These submarines were coated with special materials that enhanced their stealth capabilities, something that would be valuable for any navy in the world, source said.

According to reports, the submarines were being built in collaboration with an Italian shipbuilding firm. In 2019, Commander Purnendu Tiwari was awarded the Pravasi Bharaitya Samman, the highest honour conferred on overseas Indians. In a post at the time, the Indian Embassy in Doha had said the award was given to Commander Tiwari for enhancing Indias image abroad.

The award is in recognition of his contribution towards capacity building for the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, thereby promoting India-Qatar bilateral cooperation. He is the first Indian Armed Forces personnel to be awarded this highest honour meant for NRIs / PIOs, the embassy had said.

The first hearing in their trial was held on March 29. Family sources said they had not been informed of the formal charges under which the trial is being held, either by Qatari authorities or by Indian officials who have had consular access with the prisoners.

The men were picked up by the State Security Bureau, the Qatari intelligence agency, on the night of August 30 last year. The Indian Embassy first learnt about the arrests in mid-September.

On September 30, the men were allowed brief telephonic contact with family members. The first consular access  a visit by an official of the Indian embassy  was granted on October 3, more than a month after they were taken into custody. Since then, they have been allowed weekly phone calls to family members.
After recording oral evidence of BJP MP Nishikant Dubey regarding his allegations against TMC member Mahua Moitra on cash for query in Parliament, the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee on Thursday asked Moitra to appear before it on October 31.

Dubey told the panel that it was an open and shut case and the TMC member should be disqualified. He recalled the 2005 expulsion of 11 MPs, who were caught in a sting operation accepting bribes for asking fixed questions in Parliament, to make his point.

Sources said Dubey and advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai gave oral evidence to the panel against Moitra during the day, after which its chairperson Vinod Kumar Sonkar said the committee will also seek assistance from the Ministries of Home Affairs and IT in probing the allegations.

In a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla dated October 15, Dubey said advocate Dehadrai, close to Moitra before they fell out, has shared irrefutable evidence of bribes exchanged between her and businessman Darshan Hiranandani to target the Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Birla had referred the matter to the Ethics Committee. Sources said the panels meeting began with sharp differences among the 10 members present, excluding the chairperson, regarding who they should hear first, the complainant or the accused, which led to a vote to resolve the matter.

Opposition members cited the recent case involving BSP MP Danish Ali and BJPs Ramesh Bidhuri as an example. They noted that another parliamentary panel had called the ruling party member accused of making derogatory comments in Parliament to testify first. In contrast, the Ethics Committee recorded the statement of Dubey, the complainant, during its first meeting.

The vote ended in a tie as the members, five of the BJP and five of Opposition parties, voted on partisan lines, with the Chair casting his deciding vote in favour of hearing Dubey first as scheduled.

After the meeting, Sonkar, a BJP MP, told the media, We have decided to ask Moitra to appear before us on October 31. Eleven of the committees 15 members attended the meeting.

In his statement before the panel, Dubey pitched for her disqualification saying the matter pertains to Parliaments dignity and is an issue of national security, sources said, adding that he noted it was an open and shut case as even businessman Hiranandani, who allegedly paid her bribes, has admitted to the charge.

Some panel members belonging to Opposition parties, including BSPs Danish Ali and JD(U)s Giridhari Yadav, called for taking a lenient view in the matter as she was a first-term MP, to which Dubey insisted that an example should be made of her to serve as a lesson to other parliamentarians, sources said.

The meeting had its share of heated moments as Congress MP N Uttam Kumar Reddy raised the issue of Dubeys alleged fake degree, a matter often flagged by Moitra, prompting a strong rebuttal as he said the matter has been visited by constitutional bodies like the Election Commission and the Supreme Court, sources said.

He said an FIR in the fake degree matter was quashed by a High Court and the Supreme Court upheld it while the EC too agreed with his contention. It seems some people think they are above the Supreme Court and that they are involved in corruption and posing a threat to national security, he claimed.

Sources mentioned the committee is also likely to seek a response from the Ministry of External Affairs as a matter of protocol as Hiranandani, accused of giving bribes to Moitra so that she can ask questions in Parliament at his behest, filed an affidavit admitting to the charges before Indias consulate in Dubai.

Moitra so far has dismissed the charges as a jilted exs lies.
Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai on Wednesday said the city government will re-launch the "Red Light on Gaadi Off" campaign from October 26 to curb vehicular pollution in the national capital. Rai also said that the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital will fluctuate in the coming days in the wake of the upcoming festive and winter season. However, several instances of firecracker burning were also reported from parts of Delhi on the occasion of Dussehra on Tuesday.

Last year, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena had put the campaign on hold, questioning its effectiveness.

According to Rai, to control vehicle pollution, Kejriwal government set to start 'Red Light On-Gaadi Off' campaign from ITO Chowk on October 26. It will be implemented at Barakhamba Road on October 28; Chandgi Ram Akhada on October 30 and from all legislative assemblies on November 2.

"On November 3, awareness campaign about 'Red Light On-Gaadi Off' will be conducted among children in schools through 2000 Eco Clubs," he said.

Addressing a press conference, Rai said a recent data analysis shows a decrease in PM10 pollution and a rise in PM2.5 concentration due to biomass burning and vehicular emissions.

"Considering this, we have decided to reintroduce the 'Red Light on Gaadi Off' campaign to reduce vehicular pollution, starting October 26," he said. Rai noted that in the previous years, civil defence volunteers were involved in the campaign. This year, the campaign will involve the general public.

Rai further said In Delhi, a study was conducted under the partnership of PCRA and Petroleum Conservation. "Without the campaign, when a survey was conducted, only 20% of people turned off their engines at red lights. At that point, volunteers with placards started the campaign. After the campaign, when another survey was conducted, it was found that nearly 80% of people had started turning off their car engines at red lights. This kind of campaign has been carried out in several cities on an international level. In London, this campaign was conducted under the name 'Engine Off Every Stop.' In cities in North Carolina, USA, a similar campaign called 'Turn Off Your Engine' was carried out," he added.

Criticising the AAP government's failure to curb air pollution, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva has said that AAP government is back at playing its old games in the name of pollution control. "Red Light On Engine Off is a scheme which has proved to be a failure in reducing pollution over last few years and there is no scientific study backing its viability. Infact last year Red Light On Engine Off was not allowed to be introduced due to departmental objection but now Rai has again brought it and we don't know whether the officials have approved it and its financial implications," Sachdeva said.

The "Red Light on Gaadi Off" campaign, first launched on October 16, 2020, aims to decrease vehicular pollution in Delhi by encouraging drivers to turn off their vehicles while waiting at traffic lights.

A 2019 study conducted by the Central Road Research Institute showed that idling engines at traffic signals could increase pollution levels by more than 9 per cent.

Another study conducted at the Bhikaji Cama Place traffic intersection by the Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA), under the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, revealed that more than 62 per cent people began turning off their vehicle engines after a similar campaign.

The air quality in Delhi on Wednesday improved after it was recorded in the 'moderate' category, with the AQI at 190, as per SAFAR-India. As per the data, the AQI stood above 300 in at least 13 pollution hotspots in Delhi on Tuesday.
A retired district and sessions judge allegedly died by suicide at his home here, a police official said on Wednesday.

Prem Sinha (63), who was under treatment for depression, took the extreme step in the early hours of Tuesday, Habibganj police station in-charge Manish Raj Bhadoria said, quoting the judge's family members.

According to a suicide note recovered from the spot where Sinha was found hanging, he took the extreme step as he was disturbed after getting "negative" thoughts.

After he retired as the district and sessions judge from Umaria, Sinha was posted as a member of a tribunal in the state.

Family members told the police that he had been depressed for the last one to two months and started living in a lonely place. They also took him to a doctor for treatment, Bhadoria said.

On Monday night, he was sleeping in his room. His wife raised an alarm around 4 a.m. when she did not find him on the bed. She then saw him hanging from a tin shade on their premises, he said.

The family immediately brought Sinha down and rushed him to a hospital where doctors declared him dead after examination, the official said, adding that further investigations were underway.

Note: "Discussing suicides can be triggering for some. However, suicides are preventable. In case you feel distressed by the content or know someone in distress, call these numbers of local helpline services."
Nine-year-old Tiana Budhia from Ranchi, Jharkhand became the youngest girl from Jharkhand and one of the youngest in India to reach the base camp of the world's highest peak Mount Everest.

Tiana reached the base camp of Mt Everest which is at an altitude of 5364 m (17598 feet) on 5th October 2023. She completed the entire trek of over 130 km in 11 days along with her father Anirudh Budhia and his friends namely Mayank Arya, Aditya Budhia, Dr Kushagra Mahansaria, Abhishek Taneja, Hitesh Bhagat and Kanishka Poddar. Tiana was proudly holding the Indian Flag at the Everest Base Camp.

Tiana and her team started their trek to Everest Base Camp on 29th September 2023 from Lukla (2860 m) and trekked all the way to Everest Base Camp via Phakding (2652 m), Namche Bazaar (3440 m), Tengboche (3870 m), Dingboche (4400 m), Labuche (4900 m) and Gorak Shep (5170 m). The trek from Gorak Shep to Everest Base camp was entirely on Kumbhu Glacier. The entire team returned to Lukla on 8thOctober 2023 and concluded the trek.

During the trek, they witnessed 4 of the 6 highest mountain peaks in the world namely Cho Oyu (8,201 m), Mt. Makalu (8,470 m), Mt. Lhotse (8,516 m), and Mt. Everest (8,848 m). The other notable mountains which were visible up close were Pumori (7161 m) and Ama Dablam (6812 m).

The trek is a difficult level trek wherein you move above the tree line on the 4th day itself and the average elevation stays above 4000 mt. There are several stages on each day with long steep climbs for hours, the average oxygen level dips to 70-75 per cent and even regular work like wearing clothes and shoes becomes a difficult and daunting task which makes you breathless. However, Tiana was determined to complete the trek and managed all the difficulties in breathing, headache and acute mountain sickness well.

Anirudh and his friends from Ranchi have been going on annual trekking trips to mountains in India and Nepal for the last few years and they have successfully completed notable treks like the Hampta Pass trek (4270 m) in Himachal, India and Annapurna Base Camp (4130 m) trek in Nepal. Ever since they completed the ABC trek in Nepal last year, Tiana has been after her father to join the Everest Base Camp Trek in 2023. Tiana got excited with trekking looking at the photos from his father's treks and listening to stories from the mountains. She was mentally prepared to do this trek for almost a year.

Tiana trained for the trek by going to the Gym regularly and focused on increasing her leg strength and cardio activities. She even used to climb stairs in her apartment every day to get used to climbing in the mountains.

The trek was highly education in nature where you stay along with the Sherpa community for 11 days in their tea house, learning about their culture, hard work and lifestyle, exploring the Tenzing Norgay Stupa and museum, a tribute to the great mountaineer, who was the first to scale Mt. Everest along with fellow mountaineer Edmund Hillary. Tiana now plans to go on all future treks along with her father and his friends.
Days after after several department heads skipped a meeting to review pollution mitigation measures in the national capital, Delhi Environment Ministers Gopal Rai on Wednesday alleged that the Delhi government's first-of-its-kind study to determine pollution sources in the national capital has been halted unilaterally on the orders of Delhi Pollution Control Committee Chairman (DPCC) Ashwani Kumar. In a note to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai has demanded that Kumar be suspended for his "insensitive and irresponsible behaviour" and also urged to release the second installment to the IIT Kanpur so that source appointment study could be continue through winter months.

Delhi Services Minister Atishi also said the matter will be referred to the NCCSA for action against him. "The matter will now be referred to the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA) and the lieutenant governor, who will make the final decision. I am hopeful that the LG will make a decision in the best interests of the two crore Delhi residents," she said at a joint press conference with Environment Minister Gopal Rai. Kumar is member secretary of NCCSA that is headed by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Chief Secretary of the Delhi government is third member of the panel.

In a press conference, Rai said the Delhi Cabinet had approved the study proposal in July 2021 and signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Kanpur in October 2022.

"The estimated cost was over Rs 12 crore. The Delhi government had released Rs 10 lakh to IIT Kanpur for the procurement of necessary equipment," he said. The minister claimed that Ashwani Kumar, who took up the role of DPCC chairman in December, made a file note earlier this year, expressing concerns about the "substantial expenses associated with the study".

Following several meetings with IIT Kanpur scientists, Kumar issued orders on October 18 to stop the release of the remaining funds to IIT Kanpur, effectively cancelling the study, Rai said. "It's very unfortunate that such a decision has been made at a time when Delhi urgently needs scientific data to address its pollution problem," he lamented.

The minister said Kumar also did not inform him or the Cabinet about his decision and his actions were in gross violation of the Transaction of Business Rules. Rai added that he has requested Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to suspend DPCC chairman Kumar for his "insensitive and irresponsible behaviour".

According to Rai, Kumar was convinced that the source of Delhi's pollution has to be internal factors and cannot be majorly attributed to outside factors such as biomass (stubble) burning.

Taking a dig at Rai, Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva questioned the AAP minister's claim saying he should tell if stalling of Real Time Source Apportionment Study in February is responsible for rise of winter pollution then how come summer air remained clean while all through this year Minister Gopal Rai has been taking credit for giving Delhi clean air.

"Now when the winter pollution has struck and the pollution level is rising Gopal Rai to evade his responsibility is trying to pass the buck on officials," BJP leader said.

"He does not put forth any scientific basis for his conclusions. As the IIT-Kanpur report does not align with his idea of what causes pollution in Delhi, he is willing to sabotage the entire project with no care or concern for the people of Delhi and no respect for scientific research," Rai wrote in the letter.

"Kumar has been seeking validation of the scientific models employed by Kanpur. Despite multiple meetings with IIT-Kanpur and their responses explaining their validation model, he keeps rejecting the scientific work done by one of the most prestigious institutes of our country," he added.

Rai urged the chief minister that the remaining payment be immediately released to IIT-Kanpur and said the Delhi government will ask prominent scientists to review the pollution source apportionment study results after winter.

The Delhi environment minister alleged that Kumar is a "habitual delinquent" when it comes to routine government business and there have been serious complaints against him from other departments where he holds positions of power.It is a very important matter that needs to be investigated at the earliest. By halting a study of this magnitude and importance which is crucial for bringing Delhi's air quality to ambient levels, Kumar has endangered the life, health and public safety of the residents of Delhi, Rai alleged.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday lashed out at his Chhattisgarh counterpart Bhupesh Baghel, accusing him of promoting religious conversion in the state to weaken Sanatan Dharma.

Addressing a public rally in Mahasamund city, the Bharatiya Janata Party leader urged people to elect the BJP to power in Chhattisgarh so that a "double-engine government" can work for its development.

He also targeted Rahul Gandhi, saying the Congress leader has never visited the Ram temple in Ayodhya.

Sarma's rally was held ahead of the filing of nominations of BJP candidates from four constituencies: Mahasamund, Khallari, Basna and Saraipali in Mahasamund district.

"Religious conversions are taking place. A conspiracy is being played to convert tribals in every part of the state. Sanatan (Dharma) is being attacked," he said.

"We should think about what the Congress has given in the last five years. Has Baghel opened any university? In Assam, medical colleges have been set up in each district. There has been no basic transformation in the state (Chhattisgarh)."

Targeting the Congress, he said 75 years passed since India got Independence but it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi who finally constructed a Ram temple in Ayodhya. He asked why the Congress failed to build the temple all these years.

"I have never seen any Congress leader visiting the Ram temple. Rahul Gandhi goes to temples during elections but he doesn't go to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya as he is scared that people of Babar will get annoyed and abuse him, he added.

He hit out at the Congress government in Chhattisgarh over its promise of loan waiver to farmers and said the Congress made the same promise in the last election but did not fulfill it fully. Elections to the Chhattisgarh assembly will be held on November 7 and 17.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel on Wednesday said there was a contradiction in what RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and Prime Minister Narendra Modi say over the Manipur unrest.

Bhagwat suggested at a Dussehra rally in Nagpur on Tuesday that extremists from across the border may be to blame for the violence in Manipur.

Baghel said the BJP government asserts that India's borders are secure while the RSS chief was pointing to the role of external elements.

"On one hand, our vishwaguru says that India's borders are safe. On the other hand, Mohan Bhagwat says that external forces are involved in (Manipur). There are contradictions in the words of Modiji and Bhagwat," he said.

Meiteis and Kukis were living together for a long time. Manipur is a border state. Who benefits from such secessionism and internal conflict? Outside forces also benefit. Were people from outside involved in what happened there? Bhagwat asked.

The RSS chief said: "Who fueled the conflict? It (violence) is not happening, it is being made to happen.

"Which foreign powers may be interested in taking advantage of unrest and instability in Manipur? Does the geopolitics of Southeast Asia also have a role in these events?" he asked. Ethnic violence broke out in Manipur on May 3, leaving more than 180 people and hundreds injured.
In a shocking incident, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Moradabad was burnt alive after her car was hit by a speeding truck while she was returning home from Noorpur area late Monday night.

The incident took place in Nagawa Sadat area and the truck driver managed to escape from the spot.

According to reports, one Ramratan Singhs family lives in Kanshiram Colony of Moradabad. His wife, Sarita, was BJP vice-president of Chandranagar division.

According to Ramratan, his wife, Sarita, was returning from Noorpur to her home in Moradabad in a car at around 1 oclock on Monday night.

Sarita was alone and was driving the car herself.

As soon as the car reached in front of Kumkhiya post on Noorpur-Moradabad road, a truck coming from the front collided with the car. The car was badly damaged in the accident and also caught fire and a critically injured Sarita was trapped inside the car.

Some passers-by stopped their vehicle and alerted the police and the cops somehow brought the critically burnt Sarita out of the car and rushed her to a nearby hospital where the doctors pronounced her dead.

The identity of Sarita was confirmed after the police made a call on the last dialed number on her mobile which turned out to be of her husband Ramratan.

The cops of the Naugaon Sadat police station registered a case and launched a hunt for the truck driver who abandoned the vehicle and escaped from the spot.

In another mishap, two real sisters drowned in a pond in Mau area of Chitrakoot district.

Sources in the police said on Wednesday that Bharti (12) and her sister Anjali (7) went to take bath in the pond in Khandeha village under Mau police station on Tuesday afternoon. While bathing, both sisters went into deep water and drowned.

Later the bodies of both sisters were taken out from the pond. A case was registered and bodies were sent for autopsy.

Meanwhile, in a case of honour killing, a youth killed his sister and buried the body in Sant Kabir Nagar.

Reports said that Sirajulhaq, a resident of Chhoti Alkoholi area under Belhar police station in Sant Kabir Nagar, had three sons and three daughters. All his sons were working as labourers in Hyderabad.

His elder son, Abdul Samad, came home from Hyderabad last Friday. Samad reportedly saw his sister in an objectionable position with a youth on Tuesday morning after which he brutally assaulted her, injuring her critically.

Samad took the injured girl to a nearby hospital but she died a few hours later, so he took her body and buried it in a local orchard to conceal the crime.

In the meantime, Sirajulhaq learnt about the death of his 19-year-old daughter Nadiya Khatun, and also that his son had murdered her. On Tuesday night, he contacted the local police and revealed the entire incident.

Station Officer of the Belhar police station, Sandhya Rani Tewari, claimed that the police registered a case and exhumed the body on Wednesday morning and sent it for post-mortem.

Efforts are being made to nab Samad who is absconding.
MSP PAYMENT OF MORE THAN RS 10000 CRORE MADE TO FARMERS IN THEIR BANK ACCOUNTS: KATARUCHAK



Chandigarh: With paddy arrivals in the mandis of the State yet to reach its peak, a payment of Rs. 10182.23 crore of Minimum Support Price has already been transferred directly into the accounts of nearly 2.75 lakh farmers. Lal Chand Kataruchak, Food Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister, stated that 17 districts in the State have transferred more than 100% payment of the due MSP, which is to be paid in 48 hours of purchase as per norms, 3 districts have disbursed more than 95% of due payment and remaining 3 districts have also made more than 85% of due payment. Mansa district, having transferred 125% of due payments as per 48 hours norms, is at the top. The Minister further said that State mandis are witnessing arrivals of nearly 5.3 Lakh MT of paddy in a day as of now, and almost all paddy arriving in a day gets purchased by the end of that day itself.



PUNJAB GOVT DECLARES LOCAL HOLIDAY IN AMRITSAR DISTRICT ON PRAKASH PURB OF GURU RAMDAS SAHIB



Chandigarh: The Punjab Government has declared a local holiday on October 30 (Monday) in Amritsar district on the auspicious occasion of the Prakash Purb of Sri Guru Ramdas Sahib ji. An official spokesperson of the State Government said that all the offices of the state government, boards/corporations and government educational institutions will remain closed on October 30, in the Amritsar district. A notification in this regard has been issued by the Personnel Department.



Pb Vigilance Bureau nabs ASI for taking Rs 17,000 bribe in his office



Chandigarh: The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on Wednesday apprehended Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) Raj Kumar, posted as a reader to DSP Ajnala, red-handed while accepting a bribe of Rs 17,000.

A spokesperson of the state VB said the arrest of the ASI was made following a complaint lodged by Mohan Singh, a resident of Ajnala town in Amritsar district. The complainant approached the VB and detailed his encounter with the accused police official, stating that ASI Raj Kumar called him in his office and told him that he had received a complaint against him alleging purchase of stolen ear pendants of gold. The complainant further alleged that the ASI asked him to pay Rs 50,000 as a bribe if he wanted to avoid a police case in this regard but the deal was struck at Rs 35,000. Feeling coerced and threatened, the complainant reluctantly agreed to pay this bribe to resolve the matter. Upon receiving this complaint, the VB Range Amritsar conducted a preliminary investigation and subsequently set up a trap operation in which ASI Raj Kumar was arrested red-handed while accepting bribe of Rs 17,000 from the complainant in his office, in the presence of two official witnesses.



Contingent of MCC enforcement vehicles flagged off in Chandigarh



Chandigarh: Taking another step towards curbing temporary encroachments from the city, Anup Gupta, city Mayor, on Wednesday flagged off a contingent of enforcement vehicles at MCC office premises in the presence of Anindita Mitra, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation Chandigarh and other councilors and officers of MCC. The addition of two utility vehicles, one boom recovery van and three dual cabin truck vehicles to enhance the removal of encroachments from the city markets and roadsides. Further, the body cameras shall ensure that in case of disputes, the recording can be checked to resolve the same. While speaking on the occasion, the Mayor said that the enforcement wing in MCC has been strengthened to keep the city encroachments free.



Maharishi Valmiki Pragat Diwas to be organised in Panchkula on Oct 28



Chandigarh: Haryana Public Health and Cooperative Minister Banwari Lal on Wednesday said that a state-level event will be organised in Panchkula's Indradhanush Auditorium on October 28 to commemorate Maharishi Valmiki Pragat Diwas. At this event, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar will be given a special civilian felicitation for giving reservations in promotion to class one and class two officers of the Scheduled Caste community. The Minister of Cooperation highlighted that the Chief Minister's decision to grant reservations in promotions to officers from Scheduled Caste society is a historic achievement, addressing a longstanding demand of various employees and officers' associations, which no government has fulfilled since the formation of Haryana State.



About one lakh students to participate in block-level quiz competition on road safety in Hry



Chandigarh: In Haryana, the second phase of the block-level quiz competition on road safety is set to take place on October 27. A total of one lakh 972 students from across the state will participate, with oversight from senior officers of the State Police Department to ensure the successful conduct of the competition. Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur stated that the objective of this competition, scheduled for October 27, is to raise awareness about road safety among the general public, through children. He pointed out that in the 2016-17 competition, more than 44 lakh students participated, and got their names registered in the Limca Book of World Records. The competition has divided students into three categories: the first category includes students from classes 1 to 5, the second category encompasses students from classes 6 to 8, and the third category involves students from classes 9 to 12. Each category has received road safety study materials tailored to their age and educational level, ensuring they understand road safety facts effectively, he added.



Aadhar-based attendance at skill development training centres in Hry



Chandigarh: The Haryana government has made a decision to implement Aadhaar card-based attendance at all training centres throughout the state under the Haryana Skill Development Mission. This initiative comes after the successful launch of a pilot plan in the first phase at three training centres, said Director, Haryana Skill Development Mission Dr Vivek Aggarwal. In partnership with training collaborators across all districts of the state, short-term skill development training is organised at these centres, he added.

Hry CM approves 30 new works under Rural Augmentation programme

Chandigarh: Haryana Government decided to implement 30 new projects worth over Rs 19 crore under Rural Augmentation programme in 6 districts namely Yamuna Nagar, Faridabad, Nuh, Mahendergarh, Hisar and Jind which includes installation of 14 tubewells at various villages in District Yamuna Nagar, Faridabad, Mahendragarh & Nuh in order to strengthen water supply of the region. State Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Wednesday accorded administrative approval for the above said works to be implemented by the Public Health Engineering Department here in Chandigarh, said the government official spokesperson.

Admn issues licences for stalls to sale green crackers at 96 sites in Chandigarh



Chandigarh: The Chandigarh Administration on Wednesday issued licences for various stalls for sale of green crackers. This year the applications for allotment of stalls were taken online. National Informatics centre was entrusted to develop the software, said the UT official, adding that a total of 1814 applications were received online through the software for a total of 96 sites to be allotted. After scrutiny of the applications a computerized draw was conducted on Wednesday at Bal Bhawan sector 23. The draw was successfully conducted by using the same software as developed by NIC. Rupesh Kumar, additional Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh said that the process of allotment was transparent and fair.


Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Wednesday said that the Azadi ka Amrit Kaal, spanning from 2022 to 2047, is aimed at nurturing a sense of patriotism among the youth. During Amrit Kaal, we remember and pay homage to the countless valiant martyrs who fought for the nation's freedom. After the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign, the program Meri Mati-Mera Desh is now awakening the patriotic spirit among our youth, he added.



The Chief Minister was addressing the people at the state-level Meri Mati Mera Desh event in Rohtak. On this occasion, he also administered the Pancha-Pran oath to the people, which will become an integral part of our lives. The Chief Minister also recited the words of the renowned poet, saying, "Aao Bacchon Tumhe Dikhayen Jhanki Hindustan Ki, Is Maati Se Tilak Karno Ye Dharti Hai Balidan Ki."



He said that today, dedicated volunteers have gathered sacred soil from across Haryana, collecting it in 242 Kalash, and these will be transported to Delhi on October 29. As many as 75,000 Kalash from all corners of the country will arrive in Delhi, carrying this sacred soil, which will be utilized in the creation of Amrit Vatika as a memorial of the Amrit Kaal. This soil will also be incorporated into the trees along the Kartavaya Path, symbolizing the unity and integrity of the nation. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated this sacred campaign with the intention of nurturing a sense of patriotism among the youth.



Khattar stated that when this sacred soil, collected from approximately 7 lakh villages and cities across the country, reaches Delhi, Prime Minister Sh Narendra Modi will personally lead the oath-taking ceremony for all the volunteers. He said that when the spirit of patriotism is kindled within our youth, our strength as a nation will remain unassailable.



He said that today India stands as the fifth-largest economic power globally. In 1947, when the country gained independence, there was a renewed sense of zeal and enthusiasm among the people. In terms of development, we have made significant progress, reaching the moon and achieving self-reliance in various sectors. Despite Haryana's population accounting for only two percent of the country's population, the state's youth exhibit a remarkable spirit of service to the nation, with an approximately 11 percent participation rate in the armed forces.



The Chief Minister highlighted that the love for the nation's soil is deeply ingrained in everyone. Farmers seek forgiveness from Mother Earth before plowing, wrestlers apply a tilak of soil before entering the akhara, and each person salutes Mother Earth as they begin their day.



Khattar said that today, Haryana has made significant progress in every field, including the economy and industry. The state has created an environment where investors from across the country and the world are eager to invest in Haryana. Moreover, when it comes to medals won by athletes in the country, players from Haryana alone contribute to 40 percent of the total medals.



Welcoming the Chief Minister, Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister and Director General of Information, Public Relations, and Languages Department, Dr Amit Agrawal said that this program is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across the entire country. He congratulated the dedicated volunteers who brought the sacred soil from every corner of the state, noting that the nation is commemorating 75 years of independence. Over the past year, the state has been consistently organizing programs in celebration of this significant milestone, and the people of Haryana have embraced Amritkaal with full zeal. Dr. Agarwal underlined the unifying power of our country's soil, explaining that our farmers produce food, our soldiers protect the nation with a tilak of soil, and our wrestlers bring glory to the country by competing on this soil. The soil collected from every corner of the state will be transported to Delhi through these Kalash, where it will be utilized in the construction of Amrit Vatika, he added.
Thirty two year old Rashmi (name changed), resident of a village in Damoh district, was suffering from pain due to a blister on her lower lip for the last 7 months and could neither eat food nor drink water.

After seeing many doctors in the entire district, it was found out that he had lip cancer. Then, on the advice of the villagers, she came to AIIMS Bhopal. Doctors of Radiotherapy Department of AIIMS Bhopal examined Rashmi and decided to do

brachytherapy.

Dr. Vipin Kharade under the guidance of Additional Professor Dr. Manish Gupta & Dr. Saikat Das started their treatment and after only one week of treatment, lip cancer was completely cured. And there was no expenditure on treatment because she also had the Ayushman Yojana card. Executive Director of AIIMS Bhopal, Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh congratulated the entire team for this achievement.
Chief Electoral Officer Anupam Rajan held a meeting with representatives of recognized national political parties at Nirvachan Sadan, Bhopal on Thursday. Information was given about the preparations being made sor the Madhya Pradesh Assembly Elections 2023 and the nominations received till October 25.

Additional Chief Electoral Officer Rajesh Kumar Kaul, Joint Chief Electoral Officer Rakesh Singh, Ruchika Chauhan, Basant Kurre, Shri Manoj Khatri, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Pramod Shukla, SS Uppal from Bharatiya Janata Party. JP Dhanopia from Indian National Congress. CL Gautam from Bahujan Samaj Party, Sumit Singh Chauhan from Aam Aadmi Party PV Ramachandran from Communist Party of India (Marxist) were present.

Shri Rajan said that seizure action of more than Rs 140 crore has been taken by joint teams in the state. This includes seizure of money, illicit liquor, drugs, precious metals, gold, silver, jewelery and various types of materials.

152 general observers, 35 police observers and 102 expenditure observers have been appointed in the state. Till October 25, 290 candidates have submitted 327 nomination papers.

Shri Rajan said that apart from the Voter ID card, voters will be able to vote on the basis of 12 alternative documents recognized by the Election Commission of India. Voter slips and voter guides will be distributed to voters. This time QR code will be used in the voter slip.

Arrangements for ramps, electricity, water, furniture, help desks, toilets and proper signage have been made at polling booths. Shri Rajan said that senior voters above 80 years of age and voters with more than 40 percent disability have been provided easy facility to vote from home. Under this, 1 lakh 18 thousand 687 applications for 12D have been received in the state. Before voting, the candidate will be given information about the route chart.

Every candidate will have to fill and provide an affidavit in the prescribed form along with nomination. The candidate will have to give information about criminal cases. For this, the candidate will have to get it published in newspapers and broadcast on news channels on three different dates, so that voters can know about the background of such candidates.
As part of the pre-planned programme, Chief Electoral Officer, Jharkhand, K Ravi Kumar held a meeting with representatives of political parties of the state on Thursday. During the meeting, he gave detailed information related to the operation of the Voter List Special Brief Revision Program 2024.

He informed that the unified format voter list is being published on 27th October. The period for submitting applications related to claims and objections has been fixed from 27th October to 9th December. On 28th and 29th October, all the BLOs will sit at their respective booths. If people want, they can take advantage of it. He said that rationalization of polling centres has also been done in many districts as per the need.

He appealed to all the recognized political parties to appoint booth level agents for all the polling stations so that their cooperation can be obtained in preparing a clean, error-free and inclusive voter list during the revision programme. It was told that to encourage and honour all the BLOs of the state, a 1-hour social media campaign is to be run on October 27 from 11:00 am to 12:00 noon. People of political parties also participate in the said campaign by reaching their polling stations and taking selfies/photos in the presence of BLOs and posting them on social media like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc. using the hashtag #ProudOfMyBLO.

Everyone was appealed to promote the Voter Helpline App at their own level. Also publicize the toll free number 1950 set up for the general public for any kind of civil assistance. He also apprised the representatives of political parties about the efforts being made for the disabled, transgenders, senior citizens, tribal members etc.

During this time, apart from representatives of various political parties, Under Secretary of Cabinet Election Department Devdas Dutta and Deputy Election Officer (Headquarters) Sanjay Kumar were also present.
Uttar Pradesh Madrasa Education Board and Muslim clerics have opposed the notices issued to unrecognised madrasas by the Basic Education department.

The Basic Education department, in its notice, has asked the unrecognised madrasas to either close down or shell out fines at the rate of Rs 10,000 per day.

UP Madrasa Education Board Chairman Iftikhar Javed said that it was beyond the jurisdiction of the Basic Education department to issue notice to madrasas as only the Minority Welfare department had administrative control over madrasas across the state.

He said the notices issued by the Basic Education department had created difficulties for madrasas in running the educational institution. He said the Minority Welfare department was set up in 1995 and since then this department had administrative control over madrasas. He said in 2004, the UP assembly had passed the UP Madrasa Education Board Act and rules for the recognition of Arabic and Persian madrasas were framed in 2016. He said since then the district madrasa education officers were also performing the duty of district minority welfare officers.

He said as per the law, no other department except the Minority Welfare department had the right to conduct inspection and issue notices to madrasas. He said the notices issued by the Basic Education department violated the UP Madrasa Education Board Act, 2004.

Uttar Pradeshs Basic Education department has issued notices to over a dozen madrasas in Muzaffarnagar and some other districts that are operating without proper registration and has asked them to produce their documents.

The notice added that such madrasas, if found open, would face a fine of Rs 10,000 per day.

According to officials, there are about 24,000 madrasas in Uttar Pradesh, of which 16,000 are recognised and 8,000 unrecognised.

The madrasas which have been issued notices have been asked to produce their relevant documents within three days of receiving the notice or face action according to the rules.

If the madrasas are found operating without recognition, they will be fined Rs 10,000 per day, the notice reads.

Taking strong exception to the notices served to madrasas, the Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, an organisation of Muslims clerics, called the Basic Education departments order unlawful.

Maulana Zakir Husain, secretary of the Uttar Pradesh unit of Jamiat Ulama-e-Hind, said the madrasas in the state were being harassed by serving them illegal notices only to target a particular community.

The madrasas are providing free education to students; they will not be able to pay the fine of Rs 10,000 per day, Husain said.

Meanwhile, official sources said around 4,000 madrasas in the state are under the scanner for receiving foreign funds. The state government has set up a three-member special investigation team (SIT) to investigate 4,000 madrasas. Most of them run along the Indo-Nepal border and are allegedly receiving funds from abroad, the official said.

The SIT will examine if the money received by them is used in any illegal activities, such as terrorism or forcible religious conversion, the official added.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Thursday, said that Indias festivals were the carriers of the tradition of joy and enthusiasm with no place for sorrow and mourning.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the Shrimad Bhagavat Katha Mahapuran at Shri Guru Gorakshanath Ashram in Nangal village of Baghpat, the chief minister said, We have consistently worked to promote Indias traditions with a positive mindset.

The chief minister highlighted the historical significance of Baghpat, saying that the land dates back to the Mahabharat era. It was among the five villages Lord Krishna had requested from Duryodhana, he said.

Prior to this, Yogi visited and offered prayers at the Guru Gorakshanath temple and Navdurga temple on the Ashram premises. He also planted a Rudraksha tree in the vicinity. Additionally, he inaugurated the grand Satsang Bhavan.

The chief minister noted that recently, the state celebrated Vijayadashami, a festival symbolising the triumph of truth, righteousness and justice over falsehood, injustice and evil.

On the inauguration of Shrimad Bhagwat Mahapuran Katha, the chief minister said that this Mahapuran was actually gyan yajna, and was closely related to liberation and salvation of a soul through knowledge. People often seek salvation by visiting various holy places and performing acts of charity and sacrifice, he remarked.

The concept of salvation or liberation can vary for different individuals, such as for monks, it means breaking free from the cycle of birth and death, and for family persons, it means reaping the fruits of their good deeds. This Mahapuran encompasses knowledge, devotion and detachment, he added.

The chief minister praised Mahant Yogi Arjunnath Ji of the Ashram for inviting saints, yogis and devotees from different parts of the country to this event. He said that Yogi Arjunnath had constructed a large auditorium and a pond here, and urged the local residents to step forward to preserve them.

Everyone will have the opportunity to participate in various religious activities during the event, which will increase positivity in society, he pointed out.

Furthermore, the chief minister praised Neeraj Sharma, who was reciting the Shrimad Bhagavat Purana, and said that the Vedas, which were recited by scholars, contained all the hymns composed by sages. For this, Yogi appreciated the veneration of womens power.

On this occasion, MP Satyapal Singh, minister KP Malik and prominent saints of the Nath sect mainly Mahant Krishnanath ji, Samudra Nath ji, Mahant Shernath ji Maharaj were present. Others who were present were event organiser Maharaj Arjunnath, Nath sect representatives and saints from all over the country as well as scholars of different philosophies.
Tension prevailed in the Srinagar police station area of Mahoba district when two communities clashed over playing colours during the Goddess Durga idol immersion procession on Tuesday evening.

Police acted promptly and detained three persons on the spot.

Superintendent of Police of Mahoba, Aparna Gupta, said that a dispute broke out between two communities while taking the idol for immersion in the main market of Srinagar police station when colours were thrown on a person belonging to another community.

Prima facie it appeared that colours were thrown on a person belonging to another community by a girl from the group of those going for immersion.

The irate man along with aides allegedly thrashed the girl which drew the attention of those going for immersion and they also intervened leading to a brawl, Gupta said.

However, cops deployed at the crossing rushed and pacified the groups.

Based on statements of eye witnesses, an FIR was registered against eight persons and three of them have been detained while efforts are being made to nab others, said Srinagar Station Officer Praveen Singh.

Thereafter the procession continued its march for immersion.

In another shocking event, a girl belonging to the Muslim community created a ruckus in the ongoing Durga puja event in Basti region by raising communally sensitive and anti-India slogans.

On Monday evening, the girl barged into the event and threw black cloth on the idol of Maa Durga and raised slogans praising Islam and Pakistan. The girl got on the stage and snatched the mike from the person who was singing praises of Maa Durga and yelled Islam Zindabad, Pakistan Zindabad.

The police booked the girl on Tuesday for hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus and are investigating the incident further.

As per reports, the incident happened during an jagran event which was organised in Chawri Bazar area on Monday evening.

The anti-India slogans irked the Hindu devotees present there and they immediately informed the police, but the authorities reportedly ignored the incident at first.

The locals complained that the police were called but they failed to arrive at the spot. Notably, on Tuesday, the locals blocked the Chawri Bazar area and raised slogans against the administration. Police Prashasan Murdabad, Hindustan Zindabad, the slogans read.

The incident was recorded on the CCTV footage which stands proof that slogans praising Islam and Pakistan were deliberately raised in a Hindu event by a Muslim girl. Also, Maa Durga was insulted by the girl as she threw black cloth at the idol.

The news of the incident spread like fire in the Basti region. The Hindus residing in the city condemned the incident and demanded immediate arrest of the accused girl.

The locals, meanwhile, who witnessed the incident said that the girl was surrounded by 6-7 persons when she raised anti-India slogans but she was not stopped by anyone. The police also did not come to the event, locals complained.

The police took cognisance of the event after the mass protest and booked the girl for hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus.

Deputy Superintendent of Police Shehmani Upadhyaya commented on the issue and confirmed that a police case has been registered in the matter and that all the persons responsible for creating communal tension at the event will be arrested.

The police also stated the possibility that the girl might have been trained by some miscreants who wanted to disturb the peace in the region.

All such people will be exposed, the police added.

Meanwhile, in an unfortunate incident, a man performing garba dance at a Durga puja pandal collapsed and died all of a sudden. The tragic incident took place in Ambedkar Nagar.

The 20-second video clip shows the man enjoying garba dance with his friends at a Durga puja pandal in Ambedkar Nagar. As the video moves further, the man is seen losing his balance and collapsing on the ground all of a sudden.

Although people rushed to his aid, it is reported that the man passed away after collapsing on the ground. The deceased was identified as Mulayam Rajbhar (34) of Lorpur Tajan village.

After collapsing, Rajbhar was rushed to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead by doctors, who said he suffered a heart failure.
Sardar Inderjit Singh, the General Secretary of the Patna Sahib Management Committee, extended a warm invitation to the nominated Governor of Odisha and former Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Raghubar Das. Singh paid a courtesy visit to Raghuvar Das, congratulating him on his nomination as the Governor. He extended a formal invitation to Das to visit Patna, emphasising the historical significance of Guru Nanak Dev Ji's association with the region.

The historical places of Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Puri associated with Guru Nanak Dev Ji were discussed. Singh urged Das to play an effective role in developing these places as religious centers.

The meeting was attended by Surjeet Singh, head of Tinplate Gurdwara Management Committee, Khushipur, and Kulwinder Singh, head of Baridih Gurdwara Management Committee and advocate. The visit and discussions reflect the spirit of cooperation and cultural exchange, fostering positive relations between the Sikh community and the esteemed leaders of Odisha .
Under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Dr. Waghmare Prasad Krishna, a meeting of the Health Department was held today in the Auditorium. Prenatal checkup in the meeting, Prenatal checkup in the first trimester, Anemia checkup of pregnant woman, Checkup of haemoglobin deficiency in pregnant woman, Gender ratio, Institutional delivery, Delivery by skilled attendant, Breastfeeding of babies in the first hour of birth, the number of children born with low birth weight, treatment of children suffering from diarrhoea, vaccination, TB, leprosy and malaria patients and their treatment status, health fairs held every month in community health centers under Ayushman Bhava, health fairs organized at village level. The status of number, construction of health sub-centres etc. was reviewed in detail.

Other instructions were given by the Deputy Commissioner to increase the coverage of regular antenatal check-up, to bring progress in institutional delivery and regular monitoring of pregnant women. Necessary instructions for the construction of Block Public Health Unit KISCO were given by the Deputy Commissioner. Civil Surgeon Dr. Rajmohan Khalkho, DPM Health, all concerned in-charge medical officers and others were present in the meeting.
Dharmashastra National Law University Jabalpur is hosting the Double Credit Course on International Investment Law from October 26 to 29. The event is organized by the Centre for Studies in International Trade and International Investment Laws (CITIL).

The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL) was established to serve as a centre of excellence in the field of international trade and investment law. It was officially inaugurated on 2016. CTIL's establishment was a significant milestone in India's efforts to strengthen its engagement with the global trading system and enhance its understanding of international trade and investment laws.

The WTO Chairs Programme, initiated by the World Trade Organization (WTO), is a crucial academic initiative designed to advance research, education, and outreach related to international trade and the functions of the WTO. This program strives to deepen the understanding of global trade issues, particularly in developing countries, and bridge the gap between academic research and real-world trade policy

The Double Credit Course on International Investment Law is organized by the Centre for Studies in International Trade and Investment Laws, Dharmashastra National Law University, Jabalpur, in collaboration with the Centre for Trade and Investment Laws, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India. This event promises to be a significant milestone in the realm of international trade and investment laws.

The guest experts for the event are distinguished personalities who have vast experience in the field of international investment laws namely Prof. James J. Nedumpara (Head, CTIL, IIFT, India Chair, WTO Chairs Programme), Prof. Sheela Rai (Dean & Professor of Law, National Law University, Odisha), Prof. Prabhash Ranjan (Associate Professor, South Asian University, Delhi), Dr. Nidhi Gupta (Associate Professor, National Law University, Delhi) Dr. Gargi Chakrabarti (Associate Professor, DNLU, Jabalpur WIPO Tutor, WIPO Academy), Dr. Wasiq Abass Dar (Associate Professor, Jindal Global Law School), Dr. Rosmy Joan (Assistant Professor, National Law University, Jodhpur), Mr. Satwik Shekhar (Senior Consultant & Assistant Prof, CTIL, IIFT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Govt of India).

The course begins with a Press Conference on October 25 at 6:00 P.M., followed by the main event from October 26 to October 29, culminating with a Press Briefing on October 29 after the valedictory ceremony (6 P.M. Tentatively). This comprehensive program will feature expert speakers, scholars, and luminaries from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, offering valuable insights into international investment law.

Utkarsh K Mishra (Assistant Professor and Director, CITIL) is the event director and is supported by his efficient team of CITIL students, namely Shaan Jain (Convenor CITIL), Romit Jain (co-convenor CITIL), Shlok Rai, Poorva Sharma, Shridhar Tiwari, Vasujit Dubey, Harshit Pathak, Viraj Lahane, Siddharth Singh, Manjari Tripathi, Shahnawaz Khan, Suryansh Pandey, Dishita Singh, Karan Mishra, Nishkarsh S. Tomar, Sneha Bharti, Aditi Mishra, Tanuja Rajpoot, Harshil Gupta, Palak Verma, Vaibhav Singh Tiwari, Pragya Richa Tiwary, Sejal Dubey, Aditya Jain, Ajay Chandrawanshi.
The Election Commission in Chhattisgarh has resolved 761 of the 771 complaints of violation of the Model Code of Conduct received through the cVigil App (Citizen Vigil App), an official communique said on Tuesday.

Action is on to resolve the remaining complaints.

Citizens can complain about a violation such as defacement of properties through the application by taking a photo or making a two-minute video or audio recording.

The cVigil application has been designed to increase the participation of the citizens for quick resolutions of violations of the model code.

The application connects the complainant to the district control room, returning officer and field verification units (flying squads).

Action is taken within 100 minutes of receiving a complaint. The complainant is informed once the issue is resolved.

Ahead of Assembly elections on November 7 and 17, the Election Commission is taking rapid action on complaints.
Haryana Police has launched the "Safe Journey" initiative for women on the Haryana 112 platform which it said, is poised to help women's safety across the state, fostering a heightened sense of security and empowerment as they embark on their journeys.



During a meeting chaired by Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur at the Haryana 112 office in Panchkula, he announced that Haryana 112 is launching a new initiative called "Safe Journey" for women passengers. Under this initiative, women can register themselves by dialing 112 and sharing their travel information with the Haryana 112 team in advance. This includes their name, mobile number, place of departure, place of arrival, and expected time of departure and arrival. The Haryana 112 team will then remain in constant contact with the woman until she reaches her destination safely, tracking her location throughout the journey.



The meeting also discussed the development of a WhatsApp number to provide security to women and keep residents updated about Haryana 112. ADGP Telecom-IT Arshinder Chawla said that Haryana Police is putting stickers on public transport vehicles such as Ola, Uber, and autos that contain the driver's name, mobile number, and vehicle number. The database of auto drivers and public transport in the state is expected to be ready by October 31.



Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) are geared towards ensuring swift assistance within a window of 8 to 15 minutes in urban and rural areas. The meeting revealed that in September 2023, Haryana 112 received over 522,000 calls. It was particularly commendable that Haryana 112 achieved an average response time of 8 minutes and 20 seconds for reaching destinations during the month of September.



The meeting was attended by Additional Director General of Police Cyber OP Singh, Additional Director General of Police Haryana 112 and IT Arshinder Chawla, ADGP Law and Order Mamta Singh, IG Modernization Amitabh Dhillon, IG Admin Sanjay Kumar, IG Ambala, and Police Commissioner Sibas Kaviraj, among others.
he Uttarakhand High Court has ordered an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the irregularities in the Horticulture department. Issuing this order while hearing a public interest litigation seeking a probe by the CBI or some other agency into the Horticulture department scam, the division bench of chief justice Vipin Sanghi and justice Rakesh Thapliyal stated that the matter is very serious. Ordering a CBI investigation into the irregularities, the court also directed the State government that the State government officials will cooperate with the CBI while also providing all relevant documents.

It will be recalled that in the past, the HC had heard the report of the Special Investigation Team but was not satisfied with the report. The government counsel had stated that the SIT had completed its investigation. The court had then asked the government what action it had taken against the persons against whom proof of corruption had been found. Earlier, on the request of the State government, the court had directed the SIT to conduct the primary investigation into the irregularities before handing over the probe to the CBI.

Deepak Kargeti had filed the PIL alleging various irregularities in the Horticulture department. The petitioner had alleged that among the various irregularities, the department had shown that a work order was issued and saplings were brought from Jammu and Kashmir on the same day, for which the payment was also made. Financial and other irregularities were orchestrated in various such instances in the department, the petitioner had stated while seeking a CBI probe. It will be recalled that earlier in June this year chief minister Pushkar Singhd Dhami had removed HS Baweja from the post of Horticulture department director after an inquiry into allegations of corruption against him. He was accused of irregularities in purchase of kiwi plants and seeds of ginger and turmeric.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday refused to interfere with a Delhi Police order revoking the permission to an organisation for holding a public meeting of around 10,000 people at Ramlila ground on October 29, saying the posters indicate the event can have communal overtones and result in communal tension in Old Delhi area.

The high court, however, said after the festive season is over, it will be open for the petitioner organisation to approach the authorities seeking fresh permission by giving a list of speakers and an assurance to the authorities that the event will not result in tension in the area. The application, if received, shall be considered by the authorities on its own merit.

"The letter dated October 16 withdrawing the no objection certificate (NOC) granted by Respondent no. 2 (Delhi Police) for conducting the event... Does not require any interference," Justice Subramonium Prasad said.

The high court pronounced the order on a petition filed by Mission Save Constitution, which claims to be working for creating awareness among the masses about their constitutional rights.

The petitioner said that after a series of meetings with officials of Delhi Police and taking several clearances, permission was granted for the meeting on October 29.

Later, the deputy commissioner of police (DCP) of Central Delhi district "unilaterally, in an arbitrary manner" revoked the permission calling the event as "communal", the plea claimed.

It said the petitioner seeks to initiate a series of events for strengthening all weaker sections beginning with minority communities followed by other communities like SC, ST, OBC, and in the meetings/ panchayat voice of all the oppressed would be raised. This series is to be started with an event on October 29.

The high court, while disposing of the plea, said the entire country celebrates Navratri from October 15 to October 24 and Diwali on November 12. Between Diwali and Navratri, there are several festivals like Karwachauth and Dhanteras and the period from end of Shraadh to Diwali is considered auspicious for the Hindu community, it said.

"Though the event has been strived for the purpose of educating people of their rights but the tenor of posters produced by Delhi Police's counsel indicates that the event in question can have communal overtones which can result in increase in communal tension in the Old Delhi area which is a sensitive area as people of different religions live here and communal violence in the area is not unknown," it said.

The court said the apprehension raised by the SHO of the area who is aware of the ground reality cannot be said to be mere fanciful.

"Though Article 19 (1)(a) and 19 (1)(b) of the Constitution is freedom to raise one's voice but at the same time the possibility of creating law and order situation which can lead to loss of lives and properties cannot be ignored. Therefore, the reason given in the letter of October 16 cannot be termed as arbitrary," it said.

The court said it is well settled that the authorities need to be given some leverage while taking the decisions and the scope of judicial review is limited.

The police had earlier told the court that the organisation had misled authorities while applying for permission to hold the meeting at Ramlila Maidan.

The police had said while the permission was initially granted, it was later revoked on receiving several complaints from people of the locality that the proposed event appeared to be "communal".

The counsel for the police said the petitioner sought nod for a meeting to educate people about their constitutional rights, so the permission was granted with a condition that no participant shall make provocative speeches which is prejudicial to maintenance of harmony.
Himachal Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Wednesday distributed compensation of Rs 8.97 crore to 1162 families affected by the disaster caused by recent heavy rains and landslides in Bilaspur district under the 'Punrvaas' Scheme. He provided Rs 3 lakh each as the first installment to 94 affected families whose houses were completely damaged during the disaster in the district. He gave Rs 3.93 crore to 404 families under Bilaspur Sadar development block, Rs 4.55 crore to 532 disaster-affected families under Ghumarwin, Rs 1.21 crore to 198 affected families under Jhanduta and Rs 19.10 lakh to 28 affected families under Swarghat development block.



"Distribution of relief funds has been started within three months of the disaster, which shows the commitment of the state government towards the welfare of the affected", said the Chief Minister and added that during the discussions on the special relief package, he instructed the officials that it was the responsibility of the state government to rehabilitate all the 16 thousand families. To achieve the same, the state government has brought a special package of Rs 4500 crore, under which the compensation given in case of complete damage to the house has been increased from rupees one lakh 30 thousand to Rs 7 lakh. Along with this, electricity and water connections were being provided free of cost and cement for the construction of houses would be made available at the rate of Rs 280 per bag, he added. The state government was mulling to provide free TD to the disaster-affected families, said Sukhu.



The Chief Minister said that when the present state government assumed office 11 months ago, the government treasury was almost empty. The debt burden was of Rs 75 thousand crore and the liabilities of government employees worth Rs 10 thousand crore. Due to the economic mismanagement of the previous BJP government, Himachal was facing a serious economic crisis today. To make people aware of the real economic status, a white paper was brought in the state Assembly by the government, reiterated Sukhu. Today every Himachali citizen has a loan of more than one lakh rupees, but the present state government was making strong efforts to bring the economy of the state back on track, he remarked.
A bizarre case came to fore in Gonda after the state government ordered a probe to look into how the investigation into the murder of a Dalit man in the district 8 years ago changed 14 times.

The investigation was also changed when non-bailable warrants and even attachment orders were issued by a court against the named accused. Interestingly, the investigating officer in the Crime Branch Crime Investigation Department (CB CID) was also changed.

Shocked with these findings, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad has ordered Director General of Police Vijay Kumar to find out how the investigation changed 14 times and the officers responsible for it so that stern departmental proceedings could be initiated against them.

It may be mentioned here that the present DGP Vijay Kumar had remained chief of the CB CID for a long time.

The Dalit family has demanded a probe by the Cental Bureau of Investigation into the transfer of investigation and the alleged move to save the accused.

The family members of the deceased allege that due to political pressure, the district police and CB CID officers are protecting the accused and are hatching a conspiracy on the basis of fake documents.

According to reports, on June 5, 2017, Ramai, living in a village under Tarabganj police station of Gonda, was shot and also beaten to death by local goons identified as Radheshyam Dubey, Vishnu Shankar Dubey, Mohar Ali and Kalut. A named FIR was registered against the four accused under crime number 238/2017 under the Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes Act beside the murder charges. As the case was also registered under SC-ST Act, its investigation was given to then Circle Officer of Mankapur, Vijay Anand. But as the investigation gathered pace, Vijay Anand was transferred. Then the investigation was handed over to CO Tarabganj Brahma Singh. The CO Tarabganj was able to investigate the case for only one and a half months when on the complaint of the then IG Zone Gorakhpur, the investigation was handed over to Satish Chandra Shukla, the CO posted in Basti district.

When Satish Chandra Shukla went on leave, Gaurav Tripathi, who was looking after the work in his place, investigated the matter for about four months. But suddenly the investigating officer was changed again and the investigation was given to CO (Kalwari) Arvind Kumar Verma, also in Basti. After Arvind Verma, the investigation was given to CO (Nanpara) Surendra Kumar Yadav in non-district Bahraich and then to CO (City) Vijay Prakash. The investigation by the district police and CB CID was changed 14 times and in all the investigations, evidence was found against Radheshyam Dubey, Vishnu Shankar Dubey, Mohar Ali and Kalut, who were named as accused for the murder of Ramai. As a result, CB CID took NBW and attachment action against the accused. But now it is alleged that Sameer Saurabh has changed the direction of the entire investigation.

In this case, preparations are now underway to give a clean chit to the murder accused. When the wife of the deceased Ramai and her sons came to know that the investigation changed 14 times in the last eight years, a complaint was made by the wife to the principal secretary (home) that the case had been changed 14 times without their knowledge with the help of fake documents. She alleged that an attempt was being made to save the accused by changing the investigation.

On this complaint, Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad wrote a letter on September 27, 2023 to DG CB CID and Vijay Kumar, who is currently looking after the work of DGP, clearly saying that without the information of the plaintiff, transfer of investigation 14 times is a serious matter and action should be taken after conducting a high-level probe into this matter.

At present, sector in-charge of CB CID Prayagraj, Sameer Saurabh, who is investigating this case, said that the CB CID was investigating the murder case, but the circumstances under which the investigation changed was being investigated at the headquarters level.
Indian National Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, on Wednesday, attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party government over children receiving blood transfusions in a hospital and the blood testing positive for HIV, and Hepatitis B and C.

Kharge claimed that innocent children suffered the punishment for an unforgivable crime committed by the saffron party.

Infected blood was allegedly transfused to 14 thalassemia patients in a government hospital in Kanpur. As a result, the children developed dangerous infections such AIDS and Hepatitis B and C. It is said that there has been such egregious neglect, Kharge remarked on X.

In a startling development on Monday, the state-run Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital in Kanpur Nagar discovered that 14 youngsters receiving blood transfusions tested positive for HIV and hepatitis. The doctors claim that in addition to thalassemia which initially requires blood transfusions, the youngsters now face an increased danger of suffering from another disease.

The 14 children, who range in age from 6 to 16 years, are among the 180 thalassemia patients receiving blood transfusions at the centre, according to officials. Seven of the afflicted children tested positive for HIV, five for Hepatitis C, and five for Hepatitis B.

The children are said to be from different districts, including Kannauj, Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Farrukhabad, Auraiya and Etawah. Under the Viral Hepatitis Control Programme, district-level officials will identify the source of the infection. According to an official, the team will search for the site of infection for both HIV and hepatitis.
A group of security guards employed by the Delhi government-run Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital on Wednesday staged a protest on its campus alleging delay in disbursement of salaries and overwork among other issues. However, they resumed work after authorities of the LNJP Hospital stepped in and assured them to look into their grievances, officials said.

"The guards deployed at the hospital have been engaged through multiple agencies, the majority of them via an agency hired by the government. The guards who protested today are those who have been hired via a small private agency," a senior official at the hospital said. About 140 guards are linked with this agency and the protest was led "largely by their supervisor" and all the guards of the agency did not participate in the protest, the official claimed.

Patient services at the hospital have not been affected, sources said. "Their grievances are related to delay in disbursement of salaries and provident fund-related matters, among other issues. Their allegation of overwork for more than eight hours is also being looked into. Duty registers will be checked to ascertain their claim," the official said, adding that the guards resumed work after getting the assurance.

Meanwhile, the Leader of Opposition in Delhi Assembly Ramvir Singh Bidhuri has strongly criticized the deteriorating state of healthcare services in the capital city. Taking a dig at the AAP government, Bidhuri said the health system has been collapsed in Delhi and this government is busy in politics.

Speaking out against the Arvind Kejriwal-led government, Bidhuri highlighted the dire conditions faced by both medical professionals and patients. He pointed out that doctors in Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, labelled as a super-speciality institution, have not received their salaries for four months.

"The hospital lacks essential staff, including a permanent director and accounts officer, leading to the breakdown of critical medical equipment. Basic medical screenings have stopped, leaving patients without necessary care. Even reputed hospitals like Pant Hospital are grappling with medicine shortages, causing distress among patients. Moreover, almost half of Delhi's Mohalla clinics have shut down, and the ones that remain operational lack vital medicines and facilities," he said.
In a shocking incident reported from Meerut district, a mason was shot dead and his body was later hanged from a tree for demanding wages.

The local police registered a case and also took one of the accused in custody on Thursday afternoon.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Rural) Kamlesh Bahadur said that mason Indushekhar of Sadhanpur village under Ichauli police station was tortured by Vijaypal, former head of Dhanpura village of Parikshitgarh, for about two months. Vijaypal had given the contract for the construction of his house to Indushekhar. During this time, Vijaypal owed about Rs 2.5 lakh to Indushekhar, and the mason had been demanding the money from Vijaypal for the last several days.

Bahadur said that Indushekhar went to Vijaypals house on Wednesday evening to demand his dues. It is alleged that Vijaypal, on the pretext of taking Indushekhar to the fields, shot him twice and ran away after hanging his body from a tree.

The ASP said that when Indushekhars associate Sumit called Vijaypal, he confessed to the murder.

According to the reports, the police have detained the accused in connection with the incident and are grilling him.
State BJP president Babulal Marandi as part of the last leg of Sankalp yatra addressed a public meeting at Baghmara where he once again attacked the JMM/Congress alliance government and called for forming a BJP government for corruption-free and crime-free governance.

Addressing the gathering he said that the Sankalp Yatra has now taken the form of Jan Sankalp Yatra. The support and enthusiasm of the people shows that the JMM government is now in its last stages. Addressing the public meeting, he said that Modi ji cares about the village poor. During its tenure of 9 years, the Central Government is dedicated to the villages, poor, farmers, laborers and women. The Prime Minister also fulfills what he says. He said that Modi ji has seen poverty closely. He has seen the difficulties of mothers and sisters, hence as soon as he became the Prime Minister, keeping the mothers and sisters in mind, he first got Izzat Ghar toilets constructed.

He said that Indira Gandhi nationalized the banks for the rich. Whereas Prime Minister Modi ji connected every poor person with banks by opening Jan Dhan accounts. During the Covid period, when factories were closed yesterday, Modi ji did the work of depositing money directly into the accounts. Money is coming directly into the accounts of farmers. He said that Modi ji is sending grains to the poor but Hemant Soren is black marketing the grains. The Chief Minister who caused the theft of grains has to be removed. He said that Modi ji provided permanent housing to the poor, whereas announcement leader Hemant wasted even the extra Rs 1 lakh of money being sent by Modi ji.

He said that Prime Minister Modi ji cares about the poor. Along with gas connection, he also gave subsidy on gas. Whereas preparations are underway to provide new connections to 75 lakh sisters. Whereas during Congress rule only the city residents used to get it. Today gas has reached every village. He said that Prime Minister Modi ji launched Vishwakarma Yojana for artisans during Vishwakarma Puja. Under this, a budget provision of Rs 13 thousand crore has also been made. Stephen will also be available during training. He said that for the first time a Prime Minister has worried about barbers, carpenters, blacksmiths and cobblers. We have to worry about Modi ji.

He said that law and order has broken down in Jharkhand. Under the Hemant government, the fear of law among the criminals has ended while the common people are forced to live under the shadow of fear. Theft, robbery, murder, kidnapping, rape are happening every day. The criminals are fearless. The common man is scared. He said that no work is done in the government offices of Anchal, Block and District without payment. One has to pay for making everything from birth certificate to death certificate. To get the name added to the ration card, one has to enter it. Corruption is at its peak in the Hemant government. He said that there was no tax on sand during the BJP government. The Hemant government gave the sand ghat to the people of Delhi and Mumbai. The nexus of police officers are busy looting Jharkhand.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to visit Ulihatu, the birthplace of tribal icon Bhagwan Birsa Munda, on November 15 the day which also coincides with birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. The visit of Modi will be crucial for Jharkhand as well as four states which are going to poll in November this year.

Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan going to poll have sizable tribal population. Since 2021, Centre has been celebrating Birsa Mundas birth anniversary on November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas since 2021 with a view to honour the special place and contributions of tribes in Indian history and culture.

Sources said that Modi is also likely to announce several schemes for the tribal people with the aim to reach out to the tribal population. The PMs visit comes at a time when the BJP is struggling to reclaim the tribal support it had once assiduously built in Jharkhand and also in the poll-bound states of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

In Jharkhand, the BJPs loss in the 2019 polls was mainly attributed to the tribal anger against the saffron brigade owing to wrong policy decisions for tribals by the then Raghubar Das government.

Over 26 per cent of Jharkhands population is tribal; 28 of its 81 assembly seats are reserved for STs. The JMM- Congress combine grabbed 25 of these seats in 2019.

In Jharkhand Modi visit will follow JP Nadda visit who is reaching Jharkhand on October 28 to participate at the concluding programme of Sankalp Yatra.

BJP national president JP Nadda is likely to be in Ranchi on October 28. According to BJP sources, Nadda is likely to participate in the concluding program of the state BJP's Sankalp Yatra. This program is to be held at Harmu Maidan.

The participation of Nadda assumes importance as the party will give a message to the party cadres to gear up and get ready for Mission 2024 in Jharkhand. The JMM/ Congress alliance government is likely to be on the radar of the BJP president. Nadda will also raise the issue of failures of the state government and appeal to the people to support BJP for the Lok Sabha elections 2024.

It is noteworthy that the concluding program of the state-wide Sankalp Yatra of BJP State President and former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi will be organized on October 28 at Harmu Maidan, Ranchi from 11 am. According to the coordinator of the yatra and state general secretary cum headquarters in-charge, Dr. Pradeep Verma, preparations for the concluding program are going on in full swing.

The Sankalp Yatra started from August 17 under the leadership of State President and former Chief Minister Babulal against the failures and failures of the state government, power-supported corruption prevalent in the state, broken law and order, unemployment, loot of minerals and appeasement.
Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Ajay Rai, on Thursday, accused the district administration of preventing him from meeting Samajwadi Party leader Mohammad Azam Khan, who is lodged in Sitapur district jail.

Rai alleged that the district administration took the decision to prevent him from meeting Azam Khan at the behest of the UP government, which wants the truth behind action against Khan not to come before everyone.

Why are we being stopped from meeting Azam Khan; how will we know what condition he is in, said Rai while accusing Yogi Adityanath of establishing a jungle raj in the state.

We had completed all the legal formalities to meet Khan in jail but even after that we were stopped from meeting him, Rai said, adding that the district administration initially made false claims that Khan did not want to meet him and later cited the jail manual claiming that only one person was allowed to meet an inmate per week and that Khans son had already met him in the morning so now he could not meet the SP leader.

Neither a phone conversation was made with Azam Khan nor I was provided anything on paper that Khan did not want to meet me, Rai said, and asked why the Yogi Adityanath government was so afraid of allowing anyone to meet Khan.

Let the truth come out, Rai said, adding that the Congress would fight against this injustice and oppression and continue to expose the wrong-doing of the Yogi Adityanath government and its anti-people policies.

Rai said the Bharatiya Janata Party was harassing Azam Khan, his wife and son. This excess is not right. I will definitely fight the battle of Azam Khan. We all share in their suffering, he said.

Meanwhile, SP district president Chhatrapal Yadav said that he was not aware that Azam Khan had refused to meet Ajay Rai.

Azam Khan is being treated like a common prisoner. According to the jail manual, only one meeting can be held in a week. That meeting took place this week. This can also be a reason for refusal, he claimed.

It is believed that this meeting could have an impact on Congress in targeting the Muslim vote bank.
The Janata Congress Chhattisgarh-Jogi (JCC-J) on Wednesday fielded party founder and former Chief Minister Ajit Jogi's wife Dr Renu Jogi from Kota Assembly seat while her daughter-in-law Richa will contest from Akaltara.

The party announced this while releasing its second list of 11 candidates for the second phase of the Chhattisgarh Assembly elections next month.

With this list, the party has named 27 candidates.
The 33-year-old Delhi man arrested for allegedly killing a Swiss woman here had promised precious gemstones and offered astrology tricks to other foreign women too to befriend them.

Gurpreet Singh, a resident of Delhis Janakpuri, told interrogators he was in touch with multiple foreign women apart from Nina Berger, whose body was found near an MCD-run school on October 20 with limbs tied with a chain. Singhs father has a business of gemstones and astrology in west Delhi. He is currently believed to be in Paris.

The police suspect Gurpreet Singh learned astrology from his father and used it to lure foreign women. He used the same trick to befriend Berger and lure her to come to India, they suspect.

She came to India on October 11 and stayed in two different hotels in west Delhi. In the first, she stayed till October 16. Then she shifted to another hotel, where we believe, she stayed before being killed by Gurpreet on October 18. The decomposed body of Berger was recovered from near a school in Tilak Nagar on October 20, a police officer said.

He said Singhs chats with other foreign women have been retrieved from his two mobile phones, but he has deleted his chats with Berger. He has visited foreign countries, including Switzerland, multiple times, the police said.

There are chats recovered from his mobile phone where he has talked with several women about gemstones and astrology. It is suspect he would lure them for friendship by offering them precious stones or using astrology tricks, the officer said.

The police said they have recovered Bergers iPhone too, but have not been able to unlock it. They are taking the help of cyber experts.

Singhs family owns multiple properties in various parts of Delhi but the trail of huge cash recovered from his house is yet to be investigated.
The vehicle carrying a group of 13 farmers from the State was flagged off by the cooperatives additional registrar Ira Upreti on Thursday. The farmers left on a five-day visit to neighbouring Himachal Pradesh. The managing director of the provisional cooperative union Man Singh Saini was also present on the occasion. He said that on the first day (October 27) the farmers will visit the Dr YS Parmar university in Solan. On October 28 they will visit the regional horticulture research and training station at Shimla. Saini said that on October 29 the group of farmers will visit Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Shimla and also study the farming practices in the orchards of apple and kiwi.

He said that the second group of farmers will head to Gujarat on October 28 where they will visit the milk producing areas and study the modern practices employed by the farmers.

Expressing gratitude to the Cooperation minister Dhan Singh Rawat, the farmers said that for the first time they are being taken to such a study tour and expressed confidence that the tour will be fruitful.

In a recent review meeting of the department, Rawat had directed the officers that the progressive farmers of the

State should be sent to other states on study tours. He said that the State government is endeavouring to double the income of the farmers. On the orders of the minister the department is conducting the tour. The farmers will provide training to the other farmers after their return.

The cooperative department has selected two farmers from every district for these study tours. The selection of the farmers has been made by a selection committee headed by the district magistrate.
The Israeli representative at the UNO tore off the human rights violation report against Israel at the UN podium. This is a slap on the face of the UN which has lost its sheen because of its one sided and partisan approach against many communities including the Jews. The UN did not condemn the unprovoked brutal and barbaric attack of Hamas on Israel. On the contrary, it apologetically termed the barbaric attack of Hamas on Israel as the result of frustration of the last fifty-six years of political suffocation i.e. since the Arab Israel war of 1967. The UN General Secretary's statement is tantamount to justifying Hamas 's savagery. The Israeli representative at the UN justifiably condemned this statement and demanded the resignation of Antonio Guterres. However, the UN started condemning the counter Israeli attack on Hamas the moment it started. If the terrorists were living and hiding amidst the Palestinians, the Israeli forces had no option but to attack north Gaza where Hamas terrorists are concentrated. Moreover, Hamas challenges the very existence of Israel and is hell bent upon wiping it out from the map of the world. Could any kind of legitimacy or humanitarian sympathy be shown to them? So far the safety and security of general civilians is concerned, all efforts must be made to protect them.

The time has come that the UN should reevaluate its functioning and do away with such organisations like Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, Hunger Index etc. Their reports are prepared with an agenda to target particular communities and nations. The UN never stood up against the atrocities inflicted upon the Kashmiri Pandits who were forced to leave the valley and who are still leading their lives in a miserable condition in the refugee camps of Delhi.

The United Nations has become a tool in the hands of terrorists, leftists and the champions of wokeism. The defence of a terrorist organisation like Hamas and the attempt to portray Israel as an aggressor which is raining death and destruction on the civilians in Gaza is simply baffling. The Israeli action is the reaction of what Hamas did.The UN appeals to the world for humanitarian help for the civilians of Gaza, but it never asks the neighbouring nations like Jordan, Syria, Lebanon etc. to take some Palestinian refugees. These champions of Palestinian cause are not ready to take a single Palestinian.That's why the UN is fast losing its moral authority over the member states and this is the reason no one takes it seriously.

It is high time that the world revisits its approach to such issues as that of Hamas and no cover should be granted to them in the name of human rights and human dignity. Such terrorist organisations must be dealt with as they are and no one should fall in the trap of the well-crafted and overused card of victimhood. The jews have learnt it the hard way. The rich Jewish philanthropic community has decided to stop making large donations to Harvard and other institutions for their patronage of the misplaced concept of human rights which discriminates between different communities. The Jewish CEOs have withdrawn lucrative offer letter of appointments from those students of Harvard who had taken out a procession in support of Hamas. Such tough action is also needed against students of Aligarh Muslim University who brought out a rally in favour of Hamas. They must be given a stern warning that a government funded central university can not be utilized as a platform for issues giving them a religious colour. It should be noted that the rally was not organised on the basis of some political disagreement. There is always room for political disagreement and that is the lifeline of a university.

Terrorism can not be legitimised as a backdoor tool of political negotiation.

The writer is a noted academician and political commentator. Views expressed in the article are personal.




Haryana Home and Health Minister Anil Vij on Wednesday said that work is being carried out to make Haryana a model state in the country in the field of health services, in which construction of civil hospitals, treatment with state-of-the-art medical facilities, reconstruction of 162 PHCs, services of ECG machine upto PHC level, X-ray machine, e-treatment facility along with other medical facilities are included. The Health Minister was addressing the gathering after laying the foundation stone of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay State Tuberculosis and Cardio-Respiratory Disease Institute in Ambala city.



Vij said that this will not only be a TB hospital but also a TB Institute and will be equipped with all the modern medical facilities, which will include all the laboratories and other medical facilities under one roof. There will be a provision of 2 ICUs in this hospital, in which one ICU will be related to TB and one ICU related to non-TB.



He said that the nearby districts and other states will also benefit from TB Institute and this institute will be the first of its kind. He said that the number of TB patients is approximately 63 thousand and the health department is continuously working to get rid of this disease.
Aligarh, a city known for manufacturing locks and toys, particularly pistol-revolvers, is now poised to produce real weapons.

The renowned Werywin Defence Company, one of Indias leading names in defence manufacturing, has established a state-of-the-art factory in the Defence Industrial Corridor located at Andla, Aligarh, dedicated to the production of revolvers, pistols and cartridges.

The factory is gearing up to commence production in November and has signed a significant agreement with the American company Smith & Wesson.

The weapons produced at this facility will serve the needs of the military and law enforcement agencies, as well as be available to the general public. Furthermore, plans are in motion to manufacture rifles and carbines for the army and police, the company said.

Werywin Defence Pvt Ltd director Mohit Sharma expressed his enthusiasm for the venture, stating, Our company has been working in the field of arms manufacturing for the last four decades. Units are being installed in four defence nodes, including Aligarh. With the agreement with the American company, state-of-the-art technology-based weapons will be made, which will include weapons for the army, police, and the general public. Every effort is being made to start the production of revolvers and pistols in November, with plans for additional weapons in the future. The process of licensing and regulatory compliance has been successfully completed.

Construction of the factory at plot numbers 12 and 15 in the Defence Industrial Corridor has been completed, with some finishing work remaining. In addition to the production unit, facilities such as a warehouse and an area for storing explosive materials have been completed. The Union home ministry has approved licences for the manufacturing of pistols, revolvers and cartridges.

Werywin Defence Company has undertaken an extensive initiative to introduce a range of pistols and revolvers into the market, catering to the needs of the armed forces, police, and civilians alike. The company has unveiled its product catalog, outlining the various models of pistols and revolvers along with their features. While initial pricing has been established, the actual prices will be determined once production commences, Sharma said.

The factory in Aligarh will produce .9mm bore revolvers and pistols for military and police use, .32 bore revolvers and pistols for the general public and even 357 bore weapons.

The companys Aligarh unit has also established an arms service centre with an investment of Rs 85 crore. This facility will have the capacity to manufacture two lakh cartridges each month, including .9mm cartridges for police and the military, as well as .32, .45 and 380mm cartridges for civilian use. Werywin Defence Company intends to produce over 500 weapons each month, with production volumes depending on demand.

This strategic development marks a significant milestone for Aligarh, which is transitioning from toy manufacturing to the production of advanced weaponry, strengthening Indias defence manufacturing capabilities, a government spokesman said.
The two girls kidnapped from state capital Bhopal were to be sold to a physiotherapist female doctor in Delhi and deal was also finalized for Rs 3 lakh; police have also rescued two others girls from the gang.

Five members of this gang were caught by the police from the house located in English Villa in Kolar area of Bhopal.

The gang is linked to interstate human traffickers. The accused include Haryana resident Archana Sen (32), her husband Nishant Ramaswamy (35), a Kerala resident, Archana's son Suraj (19), 14-year-old minor daughter and Suraj's girlfriend Muskaan Bano (19) of Barabanki (UP).

It has been revealed from the accused that the gang members are active not only in Delhi but also in Haryana and Rajasthan. They kidnap children and sell them. The team of Bhopal Crime Branch is now preparing to go to Haryana and Delhi.

Kajal (8) and Deepawali (11 months) were abducted from the curfew-bound Mata Mandir premises on the pretext of organizing a Kanya Bhoj. To prevent the girls from being identified, the accused had shaved their heads.

Archana told that according to our tradition, Kanya Bhoj is organized only after the girls are tonsured. She was going to return the girls but was arrested before this. When a female police officer interrogated her at 2.30 in the night, Archana called Muskaan her younger sister. Called a 14 year old minor as his daughter. Changing the statement, he said that the girls had filth in their heads. For this reason he got tonsured. Kajal told him that her parents beat her and keep her hungry. For this reason he kept the girls with him. Raised them like her own daughters.

The female officer interrogated Muskaan separately.

He told that Archana is his sister, but Suraj is not his brother. Muskaan called Suraj her husband and refused to be involved in the kidnapping of the girls. On showing the CCTV footage, she said that the girls were kidnapped with the intention of selling them.

In the crime branch, Suraj and Nishant clearly denied that the girls were kidnapped and said that their wives had told them that the girls did not have parents. Have brought them home with the intention of raising them. On Wednesday morning he also admitted to being associated with a human trafficking gang.

Bhopal Police has also found two girls from this vicious gang, who are not theirs. These include three-month-old Angel and two-and-a-half-year-old Akiro. Even before this, this gang had bought and sold children. Archana told the police about these girls that their parents had raised the girls.

Has been handed over to us. He was very poor. Raising children was taking a heavy toll on them. For this reason he gave the girls to them. Later Archana told that the parents of the girls had passed away. For this reason she brought the orphan girls along. She was going to hand them over to people who do not have children.

Police have also recovered three-month-old Angel and two-and-a-half year old Akiro from the accused. Police are locating their parents.

Police have also recovered three-month-old Angel and two-and-a-half year old Akiro from the accused.

Archana and Nishant have revealed during interrogation that the physiotherapist from Delhi has been in touch with them for a long time. She sells children to childless couples.

DCP Crime Branch Shrutkirti Somvanshi said that the accused are members of a human trafficking gang. At present he has given information regarding two incidents in Delhi and Bhopal. He is being interrogated in connection with other similar incidents. Archana told that she was going to hand over the girls to childless couples.
Stating that for a nation to attain strength, it must prioritise developing its capabilities, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasised that nurturing a refined and cultured education system is essential for building a capable society.

Education serves as a potent instrument for instilling self-discipline, fostering a profound sense of connection and nurturing unwavering dedication in each individual towards the nations welfare, Yogi said.

The chief minister was addressing the inauguration ceremony of Smart Classes and Information and Communication (ICT) labs in 64 block resource centres of 1,086 council schools in Gorakhpur division on Wednesday.

This special occasion also marked the commencement of tablet distribution to 14,360 primary and composite school teachers, the introduction of Wonder Boxes to 3,780 co-located Anganwadi centres, and the provision of 1,980 assistive devices to support 1,207 disabled children.

The chief minister stressed the profound impact of education on the character of individuals, society and the nation.

He underlined that teachers possess the potential to rapidly elevate the nation to new heights. Referring to ideal gurus like Guru Vashishtha, Vishwamitra, Sandipani, and Chanakya, the chief minister highlighted their pivotal role in shaping extraordinary figures such as Shri Ram, Shri Krishna and Chandragupta. He urged teachers to take inspiration from these gurus.

The chief minister noted that the most significant accomplishment for a teacher is when they empower their students, making them competent and instilling in them a deep sense of dedication to the nation. He emphasised the importance of self-evaluation for everyone. Failing to assess ones actions amounts to a betrayal not just to oneself but also to society and the nation.

Referring to the transformation in the Basic Education department over the past six years, Yogi said that the department was continuously evolving and improving. He encouraged healthy competition among teachers through their active participation in various programs. By engaging with all department-related initiatives, teachers could collectively achieve better results.

He urged teachers to evaluate their work regularly, ranging from daily and weekly assessments to fortnightly, monthly, quarterly, half-yearly and annual evaluations. The chief minister suggested that in places where Operation Kayakalp hasnt yet reached, teachers could seek support from public representatives, village panchayats or former students.

The chief minister emphasised the need for teachers to stay updated with evolving technology in a changing environment. The distribution of tablets is a step in this direction, helping teachers become technologically competent and guide the upcoming generation effectively. The government is playing its role in this by establishing smart classes, ICT labs and distributing tablets, Yogi said.

Additionally, the chief minister discussed the issue of encephalitis and the importance of raising awareness about cleanliness among children and their parents. He highlighted that a robust education system should involve continuous research. Keeping this in mind, Anganwadi centres are also being connected with pre-primary.

The chief minister said that teachers could connect various types of schemes of the Central and state governments with the children of the Basic Education Council. He particularly emphasised the importance of linking scholarship programmes and the Kanya Sumangala scheme. He shared that the Kanya Sumangala Yojana, which offered an amount of Rs 15,000 from a daughters birth through various stages of her education, would now be increased to Rs 25,000 from the upcoming session.

Yogi urged teachers to perform to leave a lasting legacy, rather than merely passing the time. He encouraged educators to gain a deep understanding of the social, geographical, and economic aspects of their respective areas, as well as the unique attributes, crafts, and heritage of their villages. Gathering data and drawing insights can unveil the untapped potential within the community. In this context, he cited the example of the Terracotta village Aurangabad in Gorakhpur.

Meanwhile, Basic Education Minister Sandeep Singh, extended a warm welcome to the chief minister. The event witnessed the presence of numerous public representatives and government officials.

Prior to taking the stage, the Yogi distributed wheelchairs to the differently-abled (divyang) children, interacted with them and presented them gifts. Earlier, at the programme venue, he interacted with children dressed as iconic characters like Shri Ram, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman, gifting them chocolates. The chief minister also performed Annaprashan to the young children, offering them love, affection, and blessings, along with toys as gifts.

The chief minister inspected the stalls set up by the Basic Education department at the venue of the programme.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Thursday slammed the BJP after ED summoned his son Vaibhav and raided the premises of the Congress' state president Govind Singh Dotasra, saying terror has been unleashed in the country.

He claimed that Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids happen wherever elections are held. Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said.

"Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome. They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot told reporters at a press conference here.

Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try, he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government.

"We will win the election," the Rajasthan chief minister asserted.

Citing data, Gehlot said that 112 searches by the ED happened during 10 years of UPA rule and charge sheets were filed in 104 cases. But after 2014, as many as 3,010 raids happened and charge sheets were filed in 881 cases, he said.

The Congress' state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, state ministers Mahesh Joshi and Pratap Singh Khachariyawas were among those also present at the press conference.

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and Omprakash Hudla, the party's candidate from Mahua assembly seat, as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state.

The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law.

After the raids, Congress workers sat on a dharna in Sikar and Jaipur and raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
(): A Chinese research ship on Wednesday docked at Sri Lankas Colombo port, officials here said, amid security concerns raised by the US over its visit.

Shi Yan 6 was given permission to enter the (Colombo) port for replenishment, a Sri Lankan foreign ministry spokesperson told PTI.

According to sources, Sri Lanka was delaying granting permission for the arrival of Shi Yan 6 due to security concerns raised by India. However, there is no official confirmation of the same.

It was not clear how long the vessel would remain docked at the Colombo port.

The arrival of Shi Yan 6 followed President Ranil Wickremesinghes visit to China last week. In August, Colombo had announced that the Chinese research vessel is scheduled to arrive in October for marine research activities in collaboration with Sri Lankas National Aquatic Resource Research and Development Agency (NARA). Described as a Research/Survey Vessel with a carrying capacity of 1,115 DWT, the vessel is reported to be 5.3 metres in length overall 90.6 metres and width 17 metres. Last month, the US expressed concern to Sri Lanka about the scheduled visit of the Chinese research ship to the island nation.

US Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, who met Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session, had reportedly raised concerns about the visit of SHI YAN 6.China dispatches its research/surveillance vessels to Sri Lanka on a regular basis. India has been raising concern over the visits of Chinese vessels in Lanka.In August this year, the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Navy warship HAI YANG 24 HAO arrived in Sri Lanka 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 similar visit by the Chinese ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship, Yuan Wang 5, which arrived in the southern Sri Lankan port of Hambantota elicited strong reactions from India.

There were apprehensions in New Delhi about the possibility of the vessels tracking systems attempting to snoop on Indian defence installations while being on its way to the Sri Lankan port. However, after a considerable delay, Sri Lanka allowed the ship to dock at the strategic southern port of Hambantota, being built by a Chinese company.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka considers both India and China equally important partners in its task to restructure its external debt. China is one of the top lenders to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka owes USD 7.1 billion to bilateral creditors, including USD 3 billion to China.

The island nation was hit by an unprecedented financial crisis in 2022, the worst since its independence from Britain in 1948, due to a severe paucity of foreign exchange reserves.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party chairman Imran Khan has thrown a challenge to Nawaz Sharif, saying he will contest against the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz supremo in whatever constituency he chooses in the upcoming polls. Khans challenge came as a video posted from his X handle. The former prime minister has been in Adiala Jail at Rawalpindi in the cipher case since early August and the video was recorded before his arrest.Nawaz Sharif was waiting to return to Pakistan once I am sent to jail and the PTI is eliminated. All the corruption cases against Nawaz and company have already been closed, Khan said in the video, posted after Sharif returned to Pakistan after a four-year self-imposed exile in London. Nawaz returned to Pakistan on October 21.

Nawaz wanted this level playing field before going into polls. I will contest in any constituency Nawaz chooses. And I assure him that I will not even run a campaign in that constituency. I will tell you the feelings of Pakistani people. This country has changed as its people will never vote for such people. Social media has changed people. Gone are the days when those who had the patronage of the (military) establishment got elected, Khan said further.

His party said in its post on X that chairman Khan had already intimated the nation about the London Plan on numerous occasions and added: With absconder Nawaz Sharifs return, the plan appears to be unfolding as anticipated. State protocol, public resources, and use of public money to facilitate a convict cant sway the publics opinion who want nothing less than immediate, free, and fair elections.The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has announced that general elections are expected to be held in the last week of January 2024, however, no specific date has been announced.

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari alleged that the ECP would give the polls date once Nawaz gets clean chit from the courts in all the cases he is facing. Both the PPP and PTI have called Nawaz a new ladla (favourite) of the military establishment.

Khans party said Nawaz returned to the country after four years exile because of the blessing of the military establishment which has given him assurance to make him the next prime minister.

On the other hand, Khan is facing around 200 cases.

Two new parties  Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party and PTI-Parliamentarians  have been carved out of Khans party by the establishment in which a number of his former aides joined after blaming him for masterminding attacks on the military installations across the country in early May after his arrest.

Granting a major legal relief to the former premier after his return from London following four years of self-exile, Pakistans Punjab provincial government on Tuesday suspended Nawazs seven-year sentence in the Al-Azizia case while two separate courts confirmed his bail in three different corruption cases.
Relatives of victims of alleged war crimes committed by Myanmars military filed a criminal complaint in the Philippines against their nations ruling generals as they increasingly seek to hold them accountable in courts outside the violence-wracked country. Human rights lawyers representing five Myanmar nationals, who filed the joint complaint before the Department of Justice, contend that a 2009 Philippine law that promotes human rights obligates the Philippines to prosecute war crimes committed elsewhere in the world under the principle of universal jurisdiction.

Those named in the complaint are Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmars ruling military council, eight of his military commanders and a state minister. Myanmar and the Philippines are both members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a conservative 10-nation bloc that has a policy of not intervening in each others domestic affairs. Critics say such an approach has allowed human rights atrocities to persist in the region.

Philippine government prosecutors have 90 days to approve or dismiss the complaint. The legal effort underscores the desperation of many in Myanmar, where at least 4,155 people have been killed and more than 19,600 others remain in detention, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, a group that keeps detailed tallies of arrests and casualties since the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyis elected government in February 2021.

Myanmar has been wracked by civil strife since then, with many opponents of military rule taking up arms and large parts of the country embroiled in bloody conflict.

A group of investigators established by the United Nations said in August it found strong evidence that the army and affiliated militias indiscriminately and disproportionately targeted civilians with bombs, carried out mass executions of people detained during operations and large-scale burning of civilian houses. It said it is collecting evidence that can be used in future prosecutions of those responsible.

The actions of Myanmars generals also are under investigation by the International Criminal Court and in a genocide case at the International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court. In November 2021, courts in Argentina agreed to investigate allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity against senior Myanmar officials under the universal jurisdiction principle.

My father and his friend were murdered, said Zing Raltu, one of the complainants, who wept during a news conference in Manila. We will never get justice through the Burmese courts. We pray that the Philippines will hear our cry for help. Myanmar is also known as Burma.

The 47-year-old mother of two, who later escaped to Canada, said army troops gunned down her father, a Christian community leader, and his friend two years ago while attempting to deliver medicine to displaced villagers in Myanmars western Chin state.

Another complainant, Salai Za Uk Ling, said at least 350 people had been killed in army artillery bombardments and airstrikes in Chin, the only predominantly Christian state in Buddhist Myanmar where armed struggle for greater autonomy has raged for decades.

He said more than 2,000 houses and buildings, including about 60 Christian churches, had been destroyed since the army seized power and attacks intensified.

Justice is something we cannot achieve inside the country because the military junta ruling the country does not allow for any kind of democratic process, said Ling, who also fled from Myanmar. There is no rule of law and they perpetuate human rights abuses with complete impunity.

One of the Philippine lawyers for the complainants, Gilbert Andres, said that by accepting the case, the Philippines would showcase its democratic tradition by helping fight military impunity in Myanmar.

This is an opportunity for the Philippines to show the world a difference face. A Philippines, which is rooted in the rule of law, in decency, in democracy and in Christian values, said Chris Gunnes of the Myanmar Accountability Project, a London-based rights group helping victims of violence in Myanmar get justice.

Human rights groups have also accused former President Rodrigo Duterte of encouraging thousands of killings of suspected drug dealers under his brutal police-enforced crackdown. Duterte, whose turbulent six-year term ended in 2022, denied ordering extrajudicial killings but had openly threatened suspects with death. The killings are being investigated by the International Criminal Court as a possible crime against humanity.
Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft (OTCMKTS:HHULY  Get Free Report) and Diana Shipping (NYSE:DSX  Get Free Report) are both industrials companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, earnings, profitability, analyst recommendations, dividends, valuation and risk.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft and Diana Shippings top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft N/A N/A N/A C$0.39 22.57 Diana Shipping $289.97 million 1.24 $119.06 million $0.95 3.55

Diana Shipping has higher revenue and earnings than Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft. Diana Shipping is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Dividends

Analyst Recommendations

Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft pays an annual dividend of C$0.15 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.7%. Diana Shipping pays an annual dividend of $0.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 17.8%. Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft pays out 38.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Diana Shipping pays out 63.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

This is a summary of recent ratings for Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft and Diana Shipping, as provided by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft 0 0 0 0 N/A Diana Shipping 0 1 0 0 2.00

Diana Shipping has a consensus target price of $4.00, indicating a potential upside of 18.69%. Given Diana Shippings higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Diana Shipping is more favorable than Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft.

Profitability

This table compares Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft and Diana Shippings net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft N/A N/A N/A Diana Shipping 31.25% 19.25% 8.13%

Institutional and Insider Ownership

10.0% of Diana Shipping shares are owned by institutional investors. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Summary

Diana Shipping beats Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft on 8 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft

(Get Free Report)

Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a port and transport logistics company in Germany, rest of European Union, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Container, Intermodal, Logistics, and Real Estate. The company operates three container terminals in Hamburg; and container terminals in Odessa, Ukraine, and Tallinn, Estonia, as well as in Trieste, Italy. It also offers intermodal services that connect ports on the North and Baltic seas, and between the Northern Adriatic and its hinterland, as well as inland terminals. In addition, the company provides specialist handling, digital, and consulting and management services; and process automation, additive manufacturing, and airborne logistics services, as well as develops, rents, and manages real estate properties. Further, it operates office space and commercial premises. The company was formerly known as Hamburger Hafen- und Lagerhaus-AG and changed its name to Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft in 2005. The company was founded in 1885 and is headquartered in Hamburg, Germany. Hamburger Hafen und Logistik Aktiengesellschaft is a subsidiary of HGV Hamburger Gesellschaft fur Vermogens- und Beteiligungsmanagement mbH.

About Diana Shipping

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Diana Shipping Inc. provides shipping transportation services. The company transports a range of dry bulk cargoes, including commodities, such as iron ore, coal, grain, and other materials in shipping routes worldwide. As of March 17, 2023, it operated a fleet of 41 dry bulk vessels, including 4 Newcastlemax, 10 Capesize, 5 Post-Panamax, 6 Kamsarmax, 9 Ultramax, and 7 Panamax. The company was formerly known as Diana Shipping Investments Corp. and changed its name to Diana Shipping Inc. in February 2005. Diana Shipping Inc. was incorporated in 1999 and is based in Athens, Greece.

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LPL Financial LLC increased its position in shares of HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report) by 6.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 99,776 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 6,070 shares during the period. LPL Financial LLCs holdings in HCA Healthcare were worth $30,280,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of HCA. RB Capital Management LLC increased its position in HCA Healthcare by 25.9% during the first quarter. RB Capital Management LLC now owns 2,432 shares of the companys stock worth $610,000 after purchasing an additional 501 shares during the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. increased its position in shares of HCA Healthcare by 18.6% during the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 11,035 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,766,000 after acquiring an additional 1,730 shares during the last quarter. Prudential PLC acquired a new stake in shares of HCA Healthcare during the first quarter valued at about $1,083,000. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its position in shares of HCA Healthcare by 1.3% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 4,499 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,128,000 after acquiring an additional 56 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of HCA Healthcare during the first quarter valued at about $248,000. 62.73% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling at HCA Healthcare

In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Jeffrey E. Cohen sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total value of $405,000.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 4,414 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,191,780. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Jeffrey E. Cohen sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total transaction of $405,000.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 4,414 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,191,780. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Kathleen M. Whalen sold 2,916 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total transaction of $787,320.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 10,250 shares in the company, valued at $2,767,500. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders have sold 9,620 shares of company stock valued at $2,592,820. 1.60% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

HCA Healthcare Stock Down 4.5 %

Shares of NYSE:HCA opened at $230.06 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $62.57 billion, a PE ratio of 11.32, a P/E/G ratio of 1.27 and a beta of 1.62. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 79.26. HCA Healthcare, Inc. has a twelve month low of $207.24 and a twelve month high of $304.86. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $258.06 and a 200-day simple moving average of $272.27.

HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $4.29 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $4.28 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $15.86 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.63 billion. HCA Healthcare had a net margin of 9.32% and a negative return on equity of 12,765.76%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $4.21 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that HCA Healthcare, Inc. will post 18.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

HCA Healthcare Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 14th will be issued a $0.60 dividend. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.04%. HCA Healthcares payout ratio is 11.81%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Credit Suisse Group raised their price objective on shares of HCA Healthcare from $311.00 to $316.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, July 28th. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reissued a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a research note on Wednesday, June 28th. Oppenheimer raised their price objective on shares of HCA Healthcare from $310.00 to $315.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, July 28th. StockNews.com raised shares of HCA Healthcare from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Mizuho lifted their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $305.00 to $325.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 11th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, HCA Healthcare has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $308.18.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on HCA

About HCA Healthcare

(Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

See Also

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Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. (NYSE:KNSL  Get Free Report) has earned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the six research firms that are currently covering the company, Marketbeat Ratings reports. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and four have given a buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year target price among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $428.00.

Several research firms have recently issued reports on KNSL. Truist Financial increased their price objective on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $400.00 to $450.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Monday, July 31st. Wolfe Research began coverage on shares of Kinsale Capital Group in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. They issued an outperform rating and a $521.00 target price for the company. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $425.00 to $435.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, July 31st. BMO Capital Markets upped their target price on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $415.00 to $450.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 13th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group upped their target price on shares of Kinsale Capital Group from $395.00 to $420.00 in a research note on Friday, October 6th.

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Get Our Latest Analysis on Kinsale Capital Group

Kinsale Capital Group Stock Performance

Shares of KNSL stock opened at $425.56 on Friday. Kinsale Capital Group has a one year low of $250.90 and a one year high of $457.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.22, a quick ratio of 0.15 and a current ratio of 0.15. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $412.60 and a 200 day moving average price of $370.83. The firm has a market capitalization of $9.86 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 43.20 and a beta of 0.88.

Kinsale Capital Group (NYSE:KNSL  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The financial services provider reported $2.88 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.48 by $0.40. Kinsale Capital Group had a net margin of 22.60% and a return on equity of 29.11%. The company had revenue of $295.77 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $282.01 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $1.92 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Kinsale Capital Group will post 11.64 EPS for the current year.

Kinsale Capital Group Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 12th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 29th were paid a dividend of $0.14 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, August 28th. This represents a $0.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.13%. Kinsale Capital Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 5.69%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Kinsale Capital Group

In other Kinsale Capital Group news, Director Robert V. Hatcher III sold 195 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $409.02, for a total transaction of $79,758.90. Following the transaction, the director now directly owns 1,086 shares in the company, valued at approximately $444,195.72. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. In related news, COO Brian D. Haney sold 1,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $414.60, for a total value of $621,900.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 66,831 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $27,708,132.60. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Director Robert V. Hatcher III sold 195 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $409.02, for a total transaction of $79,758.90. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 1,086 shares in the company, valued at approximately $444,195.72. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 5,695 shares of company stock worth $2,208,939 in the last ninety days. 6.00% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Trading of Kinsale Capital Group

A number of large investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. CWM LLC boosted its position in shares of Kinsale Capital Group by 9.6% during the 3rd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 286 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $118,000 after purchasing an additional 25 shares in the last quarter. Park Place Capital Corp lifted its position in shares of Kinsale Capital Group by 8.3% in the second quarter. Park Place Capital Corp now owns 354 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $132,000 after purchasing an additional 27 shares in the last quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Kinsale Capital Group by 12.5% in the second quarter. Atlas Capital Advisors LLC now owns 261 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $98,000 after purchasing an additional 29 shares in the last quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of Kinsale Capital Group by 15.9% in the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 233 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $87,000 after purchasing an additional 32 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Coldstream Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Kinsale Capital Group by 4.3% in the second quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 773 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $289,000 after purchasing an additional 32 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.68% of the companys stock.

About Kinsale Capital Group

(Get Free Report

Kinsale Capital Group, Inc, a specialty insurance company, provides property and casualty insurance products in the United States. The company's commercial lines offerings include construction, small business, excess and general casualty, commercial property, allied health, life sciences, energy, environmental, health care, inland marine, public entity, and commercial insurance, as well as product, professional, and management liability insurance.

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Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Get Free Report) insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, October 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $298.48, for a total value of $1,567,020.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 20,265 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $6,048,697.20. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink.

Accenture Trading Down 1.2 %

NYSE:ACN opened at $292.68 on Thursday. The firm has a market cap of $183.78 billion, a PE ratio of 27.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.57 and a beta of 1.22. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $312.55 and a 200 day moving average price of $304.09. Accenture plc has a 12-month low of $242.80 and a 12-month high of $330.43.

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Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, September 28th. The information technology services provider reported $2.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.65 by $0.06. The firm had revenue of $15.99 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.07 billion. Accenture had a return on equity of 29.74% and a net margin of 10.72%. Accentures revenue was up 3.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.60 earnings per share. Equities analysts forecast that Accenture plc will post 12.1 EPS for the current year.

Accenture Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 12th will be issued a dividend of $1.29 per share. This represents a $5.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.76%. This is an increase from Accentures previous quarterly dividend of $1.12. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, October 11th. Accentures payout ratio is 47.91%.

Accenture announced that its Board of Directors has initiated a share buyback program on Thursday, September 28th that allows the company to buyback $4.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the information technology services provider to purchase up to 2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback programs are often a sign that the companys board of directors believes its shares are undervalued.

Institutional Trading of Accenture

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL purchased a new stake in Accenture during the 1st quarter worth about $28,000. Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Accenture during the first quarter worth about $29,000. Sageworth Trust Co increased its position in shares of Accenture by 872.7% during the first quarter. Sageworth Trust Co now owns 107 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 96 shares in the last quarter. BluePath Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Accenture during the third quarter worth about $31,000. Finally, Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Accenture during the first quarter worth about $32,000. 70.42% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

ACN has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Citigroup reissued a buy rating and set a $358.00 target price on shares of Accenture in a research note on Monday, September 18th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on Accenture from $340.00 to $356.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 12th. Royal Bank of Canada restated an outperform rating and set a $340.00 price target on shares of Accenture in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Robert W. Baird lowered their price target on Accenture from $332.00 to $322.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, TD Cowen lowered their price target on Accenture from $312.00 to $300.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $333.24.

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About Accenture

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Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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Arizona State Retirement System reduced its stake in shares of Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE:FNF  Free Report) by 6.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 70,573 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 4,588 shares during the quarter. Arizona State Retirement Systems holdings in Fidelity National Financial were worth $2,541,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Salem Investment Counselors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Fidelity National Financial during the second quarter valued at about $26,000. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC lifted its position in Fidelity National Financial by 88.2% during the first quarter. Hexagon Capital Partners LLC now owns 715 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 335 shares during the last quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. boosted its stake in Fidelity National Financial by 119.7% in the second quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 725 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 395 shares in the last quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC purchased a new position in Fidelity National Financial in the first quarter worth $32,000. Finally, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. purchased a new position in Fidelity National Financial in the first quarter worth $54,000. Institutional investors own 77.16% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have recently commented on the company. BTIG Research increased their price objective on Fidelity National Financial from $47.00 to $48.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. TheStreet upgraded Fidelity National Financial from a c+ rating to a b rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 9th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on shares of Fidelity National Financial from $48.00 to $52.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 10th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut shares of Fidelity National Financial from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and lowered their target price for the stock from $45.00 to $43.00 in a research note on Monday, October 2nd. Finally, Stephens restated an overweight rating and set a $48.00 price target on shares of Fidelity National Financial in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Fidelity National Financial currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $46.83.

Fidelity National Financial Trading Down 0.5 %

Fidelity National Financial stock opened at $37.36 on Thursday. Fidelity National Financial, Inc. has a 52 week low of $31.84 and a 52 week high of $45.51. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $40.62 and a 200 day moving average price of $37.74. The company has a quick ratio of 0.19, a current ratio of 0.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55. The company has a market capitalization of $10.17 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.77 and a beta of 1.31.

Fidelity National Financial (NYSE:FNF  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 8th. The financial services provider reported $1.01 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.04 by ($0.03). The business had revenue of $3.07 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.68 billion. Fidelity National Financial had a net margin of 4.57% and a return on equity of 15.89%. The businesss revenue was up 16.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.90 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Fidelity National Financial, Inc. will post 3.8 EPS for the current year.

Fidelity National Financial Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 15th were given a dividend of $0.45 per share. This represents a $1.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.82%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 14th. Fidelity National Financials dividend payout ratio is currently 95.24%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Fidelity National Financial

In related news, CEO Michael Joseph Nolan sold 30,000 shares of Fidelity National Financial stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $43.12, for a total transaction of $1,293,600.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 354,786 shares in the company, valued at $15,298,372.32. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 5.40% of the companys stock.

Fidelity National Financial Company Profile

(Free Report)

Fidelity National Financial, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides various insurance products in the United States. The company operates through Title, F&G, and Corporate and Other segments. It offers title insurance, escrow, and other title related services, including trust activities, trustee sales guarantees, recordings and reconveyances, and home warranty products.

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BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust (NYSE:BIGZ  Get Free Report) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 362,836 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, October 23rd. The stock was purchased at an average price of $6.62 per share, for a total transaction of $2,401,974.32. Following the acquisition, the insider now directly owns 29,068,304 shares in the company, valued at $192,432,172.48. The purchase was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Major shareholders that own at least 10% of a companys stock are required to disclose their sales and purchases with the SEC.

Saba Capital Management, L.P. also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Wednesday, October 25th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 28,030 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of $6.35 per share, for a total transaction of $177,990.50.

On Friday, October 20th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 127,905 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of $6.64 per share, for a total transaction of $849,289.20.

On Wednesday, October 18th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 213,755 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of $6.83 per share, with a total value of $1,459,946.65.

On Monday, October 16th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 208,037 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of $6.94 per share, with a total value of $1,443,776.78.

On Friday, October 13th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 108,831 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $6.83 per share, with a total value of $743,315.73.

On Wednesday, October 11th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 167,604 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $7.09 per share, with a total value of $1,188,312.36.

On Monday, October 9th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 285,968 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $6.94 per share, with a total value of $1,984,617.92.

On Friday, October 6th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 454,475 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $6.90 per share, with a total value of $3,135,877.50.

On Wednesday, October 4th, Saba Capital Management, L.P. bought 317,729 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $6.79 per share, with a total value of $2,157,379.91.

On Monday, October 2nd, Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 191,017 shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of $6.95 per share, with a total value of $1,327,568.15.

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust Stock Down 4.8 %

Shares of NYSE:BIGZ opened at $6.35 on Thursday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $7.13 and a 200-day moving average of $7.51. BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust has a twelve month low of $6.32 and a twelve month high of $8.35.

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust Cuts Dividend

Institutional Trading of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust

The business also recently declared a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, October 31st. Stockholders of record on Monday, October 16th will be paid a $0.0456 dividend. This represents a $0.55 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.61%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 13th.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. lifted its stake in BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 3.0% during the first quarter. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. now owns 223,560 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,795,000 after purchasing an additional 6,410 shares during the last quarter. David J Yvars Group raised its holdings in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 9.4% during the first quarter. David J Yvars Group now owns 21,450 shares of the companys stock valued at $172,000 after acquiring an additional 1,843 shares during the period. Clear Harbor Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust during the second quarter valued at approximately $1,405,000. Insigneo Advisory Services LLC acquired a new stake in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust during the first quarter valued at approximately $120,000. Finally, Corrado Advisors LLC raised its holdings in shares of BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust by 5.7% during the first quarter. Corrado Advisors LLC now owns 264,180 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,121,000 after acquiring an additional 14,251 shares during the period.

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is a mutual fund launched by BlackRock, Inc and managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. BlackRock Innovation and Growth Term Trust is based in United States.

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Chevron (NYSE:CVX  Get Free Report)s stock had its outperform rating reaffirmed by equities research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada in a report released on Tuesday, Benzinga reports. They currently have a $180.00 target price on the oil and gas companys stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price would suggest a potential upside of 15.48% from the stocks previous close.

CVX has been the topic of several other reports. Citigroup reduced their price target on Chevron from $180.00 to $170.00 in a report on Tuesday, July 11th. HSBC upped their price target on shares of Chevron from $180.00 to $184.00 in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on shares of Chevron from $203.00 to $201.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 17th. StockNews.com began coverage on Chevron in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their price target on Chevron from $163.00 to $165.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Monday, July 31st. Six investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $190.11.

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Chevron Trading Down 0.5 %

Shares of Chevron stock opened at $155.87 on Tuesday. The company has a market capitalization of $291.05 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.88, a P/E/G ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 1.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a current ratio of 1.43. The company has a fifty day moving average of $164.33 and a 200 day moving average of $161.02. Chevron has a fifty-two week low of $149.74 and a fifty-two week high of $189.68.

Chevron (NYSE:CVX  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, July 28th. The oil and gas company reported $3.08 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.95 by $0.13. Chevron had a return on equity of 19.48% and a net margin of 13.54%. The business had revenue of $48.90 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $48 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $5.82 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 28.9% on a year-over-year basis. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Chevron will post 13.91 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In related news, VP Jeff B. Gustavson sold 3,750 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $160.88, for a total transaction of $603,300.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 1,718 shares in the company, valued at approximately $276,391.84. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, VP Jeff B. Gustavson sold 3,750 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred 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 completion of the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 1,718 shares in the company, valued at $276,391.84. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, CFO Pierre R. Breber sold 25,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $164.00, for a total value 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 disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.18% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Chevron

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. KFA Private Wealth Group LLC acquired a new position in Chevron in the 3rd quarter valued at about $215,000. Pinnacle Wealth Management Advisory Group LLC lifted its position in Chevron by 2.0% in the third quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Management Advisory Group LLC now owns 19,644 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $3,312,000 after purchasing an additional 393 shares during the period. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. lifted its position in Chevron by 3.0% in the third quarter. Farmers & Merchants Investments Inc. now owns 127,415 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $21,485,000 after purchasing an additional 3,721 shares during the period. Invesco LLC lifted its position in Chevron by 1.9% in the third quarter. Invesco LLC now owns 6,747 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,138,000 after purchasing an additional 129 shares during the period. Finally, Adams Natural Resources Fund Inc. lifted its position in Chevron by 0.8% in the third quarter. Adams Natural Resources Fund Inc. now owns 542,271 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $91,438,000 after purchasing an additional 4,200 shares during the period. 68.87% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Chevron Company Profile

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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.

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Arizona State Retirement System lessened its holdings in shares of Globe Life Inc. (NYSE:GL  Free Report) by 6.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 25,024 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,841 shares during the quarter. Arizona State Retirement Systems holdings in Globe Life were worth $2,743,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in GL. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its position in shares of Globe Life by 37.0% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 7,308,014 shares of the companys stock valued at $735,187,000 after acquiring an additional 1,973,186 shares during the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in shares of Globe Life by 0.9% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 6,520,494 shares of the companys stock valued at $655,963,000 after acquiring an additional 57,587 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC boosted its position in shares of Globe Life by 6.3% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 2,689,921 shares of the companys stock valued at $295,945,000 after acquiring an additional 160,145 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted its position in shares of Globe Life by 18.2% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 2,678,038 shares of the companys stock valued at $294,639,000 after acquiring an additional 412,639 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Cooke & Bieler LP boosted its position in shares of Globe Life by 53.5% during the 2nd quarter. Cooke & Bieler LP now owns 2,287,036 shares of the companys stock valued at $250,705,000 after acquiring an additional 797,267 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 80.04% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on GL shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on shares of Globe Life from $131.00 to $132.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 6th. Morgan Stanley raised shares of Globe Life from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating and set a $131.00 price target on the stock in a research report on Friday, August 18th. Raymond James boosted their price objective on shares of Globe Life from $138.00 to $160.00 and gave the company a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on shares of Globe Life from $130.00 to $131.00 in a report on Friday, July 28th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on shares of Globe Life from $115.00 to $118.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, September 14th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $132.13.

Insider Activity at Globe Life

In related news, CAO Michael Shane Henrie sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.06, for a total value of $112,060.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 700 shares of the companys stock, valued at $78,442. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, EVP Robert Brian Mitchell sold 16,217 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 30th. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.97, for a total value of $1,815,817.49. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 36,635 shares of the companys stock, valued at $4,102,020.95. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CAO Michael Shane Henrie sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.06, for a total value of $112,060.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now directly owns 700 shares of the companys stock, valued at $78,442. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 33,542 shares of company stock valued at $3,770,767 over the last three months. 4.33% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Globe Life Stock Up 0.7 %

GL stock opened at $112.03 on Thursday. The companys 50 day moving average price is $111.17 and its 200 day moving average price is $109.92. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45, a quick ratio of 0.05 and a current ratio of 0.05. Globe Life Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $102.23 and a fifty-two week high of $123.85. The firm has a market capitalization of $10.61 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.09 and a beta of 0.78.

Globe Life (NYSE:GL  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, July 26th. The company reported $2.61 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.57 by $0.04. Globe Life had a net margin of 15.91% and a return on equity of 21.82%. The firm had revenue of $1.33 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.37 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.07 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 2.7% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Globe Life Inc. will post 10.51 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Globe Life 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 dividend of $0.225 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 5th. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.80%. Globe Lifes payout ratio is 10.51%.

About Globe Life

(Free Report)

Globe Life Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides various life and supplemental health insurance products, and annuities to lower middle to middle income households in the United States. The company operates through four segments: Life Insurance, Supplemental Health Insurance, Annuities, and Investments.

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HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Get Free Report)s share price gapped down prior to trading on Tuesday after the company announced weaker than expected quarterly earnings. The stock had previously closed at $240.94, but opened at $218.75. HCA Healthcare shares last traded at $220.04, with a volume of 730,734 shares trading hands.

The company reported $3.91 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $3.97 by ($0.06). The company had revenue of $16.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $15.77 billion. HCA Healthcare had a return on equity of 2,040.32% and a net margin of 9.05%.

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HCA Healthcare Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 14th will be given a dividend of $0.60 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 13th. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.06%. HCA Healthcares dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 11.81%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have issued reports on HCA. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price target on HCA Healthcare from $311.00 to $316.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, July 28th. Citigroup dropped their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $324.00 to $279.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Raymond James lowered their target price on shares of HCA Healthcare from $320.00 to $280.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Oppenheimer boosted their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $310.00 to $315.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Finally, VNET Group reissued a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a report on Wednesday, June 28th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $298.68.

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Insider Transactions at HCA Healthcare

In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathleen M. Whalen sold 2,916 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total transaction of $787,320.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 10,250 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,767,500. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathleen M. Whalen sold 2,916 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total transaction of $787,320.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 10,250 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,767,500. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total transaction of $1,400,500.48. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,317,811.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 9,620 shares of company stock worth $2,592,820 over the last ninety days. 1.60% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in HCA. BlackRock Inc. raised its position in HCA Healthcare by 1.5% during the second quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 14,898,753 shares of the companys stock worth $4,521,474,000 after acquiring an additional 213,172 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its stake in HCA Healthcare by 1.7% in the 2nd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,975,423 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,723,861,000 after buying an additional 149,750 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD increased its position in HCA Healthcare by 13.3% during the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 7,974,024 shares of the companys stock worth $2,102,591,000 after buying an additional 934,406 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of HCA Healthcare by 1.7% during the first quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,812,961 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,002,773,000 after acquiring an additional 64,029 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada raised its stake in HCA Healthcare by 102.0% in the 2nd quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 3,650,988 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,108,001,000 after purchasing an additional 1,843,887 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.73% of the companys stock.

HCA Healthcare Price Performance

The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 103.06. The company has a market capitalization of $61.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.09, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.62. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $257.23 and its 200-day simple moving average is $271.94.

HCA Healthcare Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

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Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM  Get Free Report) CEO Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $204.55, for a total transaction of $3,068,250.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 15,161,166 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,101,216,505.30. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link.

Marc Benioff also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Monday, October 23rd, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $201.68, for a total transaction of $3,025,200.00.

On Wednesday, October 18th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $205.90, for a total transaction of $3,088,500.00.

On Monday, October 16th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The shares were sold at an average price of $208.36, for a total transaction of $3,125,400.00.

On Friday, October 13th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $205.03, for a total transaction of $3,075,450.00.

On Wednesday, October 11th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $206.51, for a total transaction of $3,097,650.00.

On Monday, October 9th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $206.69, for a total transaction of $3,100,350.00.

On Friday, October 6th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $205.88, for a total transaction of $3,088,200.00.

On Wednesday, October 4th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $201.54, for a total transaction of $3,023,100.00.

On Monday, October 2nd, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $202.81, for a total transaction of $3,042,150.00.

On Friday, September 29th, Marc Benioff sold 15,000 shares of Salesforce stock. The stock was sold at an average price of $204.23, for a total transaction of $3,063,450.00.

Salesforce Trading Down 3.5 %

CRM stock opened at $197.06 on Thursday. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $210.00 and its 200-day simple moving average is $210.02. The company has a quick ratio of 1.02, a current ratio of 1.02 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.15. Salesforce, Inc. has a 52-week low of $126.34 and a 52-week high of $238.22. The firm has a market cap of $191.74 billion, a P/E ratio of 123.94, a PEG ratio of 1.53 and a beta of 1.20.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Salesforce

Salesforce ( NYSE:CRM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, August 30th. The CRM provider reported $2.12 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.90 by $0.22. Salesforce had a net margin of 4.77% and a return on equity of 7.67%. The business had revenue of $8.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.53 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.52 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 11.4% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Salesforce, Inc. will post 5.86 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Several hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Fairfield Bush & CO. raised its position in shares of Salesforce by 8.7% during the 1st quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. now owns 4,468 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $949,000 after purchasing an additional 357 shares during the last quarter. Roundview Capital LLC raised its position in shares of Salesforce by 18.8% during the 1st quarter. Roundview Capital LLC now owns 24,037 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $5,104,000 after purchasing an additional 3,809 shares during the last quarter. Covestor Ltd raised its position in shares of Salesforce by 42.8% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 621 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $132,000 after purchasing an additional 186 shares during the last quarter. Ergoteles LLC acquired a new position in shares of Salesforce during the 1st quarter worth about $455,000. Finally, Mackenzie Financial Corp raised its position in shares of Salesforce by 21.3% during the 1st quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 860,950 shares of the CRM providers stock worth $182,797,000 after purchasing an additional 151,440 shares during the last quarter. 77.52% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on the company. HSBC assumed coverage on Salesforce in a research report on Friday, September 15th. They set a buy rating and a $267.00 price target on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and set a $240.00 price target on shares of Salesforce in a research report on Friday, September 15th. Loop Capital upped their price target on Salesforce from $215.00 to $230.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, August 31st. Citigroup upped their price target on Salesforce from $220.00 to $229.00 in a research report on Thursday, August 31st. Finally, Truist Financial reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $275.00 price target on shares of Salesforce in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, fourteen have issued a hold rating, twenty-five have assigned a buy rating and two have given a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Salesforce presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $241.28.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on CRM

About Salesforce

(Get Free Report)

Salesforce, Inc provides Customer Relationship Management (CRM) technology that brings companies and customers together worldwide. The company's service includes sales to store data, monitor leads and progress, forecast opportunities, gain insights through analytics and relationship intelligence, and deliver quotes, contracts, and invoices; and service that enables companies to deliver trusted and highly personalized customer service and support at scale.

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Retirement Systems of Alabama cut its stake in shares of KB Home (NYSE:KBH  Free Report) by 3.0% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 103,452 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 3,202 shares during the quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama owned approximately 0.13% of KB Home worth $5,350,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. GHE LLC grew its position in shares of KB Home by 4.6% during the second quarter. GHE LLC now owns 28,337 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,465,000 after buying an additional 1,256 shares in the last quarter. Duality Advisers LP lifted its stake in KB Home by 78.7% during the second quarter. Duality Advisers LP now owns 22,495 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,163,000 after purchasing an additional 9,906 shares during the last quarter. Omnia Family Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in KB Home during the second quarter worth approximately $219,000. Strs Ohio lifted its stake in KB Home by 213.0% during the second quarter. Strs Ohio now owns 7,200 shares of the construction companys stock worth $372,000 after purchasing an additional 4,900 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings Inc. purchased a new stake in KB Home during the second quarter worth approximately $264,000. 91.27% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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KB Home Price Performance

Shares of KBH stock opened at $42.36 on Thursday. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $46.98 and its 200 day moving average price is $47.76. KB Home has a 1-year low of $26.73 and a 1-year high of $55.37. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.36 billion, a PE ratio of 5.53, a P/E/G ratio of 0.88 and a beta of 1.68.

KB Home Announces Dividend

KB Home ( NYSE:KBH Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, September 20th. The construction company reported $1.80 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.43 by $0.37. The firm had revenue of $1.59 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.47 billion. KB Home had a return on equity of 17.56% and a net margin of 9.83%. KB Homes quarterly revenue was down 14.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $2.86 earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that KB Home will post 6.92 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 22nd. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 9th will be issued a $0.20 dividend. This represents a $0.80 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.89%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 8th. KB Homes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 10.44%.

Insider Buying and Selling at KB Home

In other KB Home news, EVP Brian J. Woram sold 40,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $52.80, for a total value of $2,112,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 158,654 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,376,931.20. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other news, EVP Brian J. Woram sold 40,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $52.80, for a total value of $2,112,000.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 158,654 shares in the company, valued at $8,376,931.20. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, CAO William R. Hollinger sold 4,529 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.65, for a total value of $229,393.85. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer now owns 155,769 shares in the company, valued at $7,889,699.85. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders have sold 54,178 shares of company stock valued at $2,854,624. Insiders own 4.44% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

KBH has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Wedbush decreased their target price on KB Home from $64.00 to $55.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. Raymond James upgraded KB Home from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $61.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Friday, July 14th. Barclays reduced their price objective on KB Home from $62.00 to $57.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 12th. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on KB Home in a research note on Tuesday, October 17th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $49.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $52.00 price target on shares of KB Home in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. Eight research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, KB Home has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $52.88.

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About KB Home

(Free Report)

KB Home operates as a homebuilding company in the United States. It operates through four segments: West Coast, Southwest, Central, and Southeast. It builds and sells various homes, including attached and detached single-family residential homes, townhomes, and condominiums primarily for first-time, first move-up, second move-up, and active adult homebuyers.

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Keybank National Association OH boosted its position in First American Financial Co. (NYSE:FAF  Free Report) by 23.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 13,098 shares of the insurance providers stock after acquiring an additional 2,462 shares during the period. Keybank National Association OHs holdings in First American Financial were worth $747,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System boosted its stake in shares of First American Financial by 9.5% in the 2nd quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 30,100 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,716,000 after purchasing an additional 2,600 shares during the last quarter. US Bancorp DE raised its position in shares of First American Financial by 5.8% during the 1st quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 7,246 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $403,000 after acquiring an additional 399 shares during the last quarter. OLD National Bancorp IN lifted its stake in shares of First American Financial by 12.9% in the 1st quarter. OLD National Bancorp IN now owns 122,120 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $6,797,000 after purchasing an additional 14,000 shares during the period. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in shares of First American Financial in the 1st quarter valued at $131,000. Finally, Advisors Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of First American Financial by 1.1% in the 1st quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 53,002 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $2,950,000 after purchasing an additional 556 shares during the last quarter. 85.53% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have weighed in on FAF. Truist Financial increased their target price on First American Financial from $67.00 to $77.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, July 28th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of First American Financial in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Stephens restated an overweight rating and set a $72.00 price objective on shares of First American Financial in a report on Wednesday, October 11th. Finally, BTIG Research reissued a neutral rating on shares of First American Financial in a research report on Tuesday, July 18th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and four have issued a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, First American Financial has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $68.25.

First American Financial Stock Performance

Shares of FAF opened at $50.07 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $5.16 billion, a PE ratio of 21.67 and a beta of 1.26. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $57.31 and a 200 day simple moving average of $57.62. First American Financial Co. has a 52-week low of $46.17 and a 52-week high of $64.66.

First American Financial (NYSE:FAF  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The insurance provider reported $1.35 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.96 by $0.39. First American Financial had a net margin of 3.64% and a return on equity of 10.72%. The company had revenue of $1.65 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.50 billion. Equities research analysts predict that First American Financial Co. will post 4.34 EPS for the current fiscal year.

First American Financial Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 15th. Investors of record on Friday, September 8th were paid a $0.53 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 7th. This is a positive change from First American Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.52. This represents a $2.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.23%. First American Financials dividend payout ratio is presently 91.77%.

First American Financial Profile

(Free Report)

First American Financial Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides financial services. It operates through Title Insurance and Services, and Specialty Insurance segments. The Title Insurance and Services segment issues title insurance policies on residential and commercial property, as well as offers related products and services.

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LPL Financial LLC lifted its position in Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL  Free Report) by 11.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 435,898 shares of the transportation companys stock after buying an additional 45,626 shares during the quarter. LPL Financial LLC owned approximately 0.07% of Delta Air Lines worth $20,723,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Delta Air Lines by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. Harbor Capital Advisors Inc. now owns 19,304 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $918,000 after purchasing an additional 220 shares in the last quarter. Navalign LLC grew its stake in Delta Air Lines by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter. Navalign LLC now owns 17,716 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $842,000 after purchasing an additional 220 shares in the last quarter. Main Street Financial Solutions LLC grew its stake in Delta Air Lines by 3.3% during the 1st quarter. Main Street Financial Solutions LLC now owns 9,113 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $318,000 after purchasing an additional 291 shares in the last quarter. Forum Financial Management LP boosted its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 3.5% during the 1st quarter. Forum Financial Management LP now owns 8,675 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $343,000 after acquiring an additional 292 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Louisiana State Employees Retirement System boosted its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 41,700 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $1,456,000 after acquiring an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 71.29% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on Delta Air Lines from $70.00 to $77.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, July 14th. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on Delta Air Lines from $55.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, July 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their target price on Delta Air Lines from $47.00 to $58.00 in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their target price on Delta Air Lines from $60.00 to $50.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, Raymond James decreased their target price on Delta Air Lines from $58.00 to $54.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $54.40.

Delta Air Lines Stock Down 1.9 %

DAL opened at $31.41 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $20.21 billion, a PE ratio of 5.95, a P/E/G ratio of 0.16 and a beta of 1.32. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $38.29 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $39.70. Delta Air Lines, Inc. has a 52 week low of $30.98 and a 52 week high of $49.81. The company has a quick ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 0.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.90.

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 12th. The transportation company reported $2.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.95 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $15.49 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $14.55 billion. Delta Air Lines had a return on equity of 54.95% and a net margin of 5.94%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 10.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.51 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Delta Air Lines, Inc. will post 6.08 EPS for the current year.

Delta Air Lines Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 2nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, October 12th will be paid a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.27%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, October 11th. Delta Air Liness dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 7.58%.

Insider Transactions at Delta Air Lines

In other Delta Air Lines news, Director David S. Taylor bought 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 18th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $33.09 per share, with a total value of $330,900.00. Following the purchase, the director now owns 17,470 shares in the company, valued at approximately $578,082.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Delta Air Lines news, Director David S. Taylor bought 10,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 18th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $33.09 per share, with a total value of $330,900.00. Following the purchase, the director now owns 17,470 shares in the company, valued at approximately $578,082.30. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Steven M. Sear sold 12,129 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $45.52, for a total value of $552,112.08. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 85,708 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,901,428.16. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last three months, insiders sold 49,549 shares of company stock valued at $2,104,753. Corporate insiders own 0.89% of the companys stock.

Delta Air Lines Company Profile

(Free Report)

Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and Seoul-Incheon.

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LPL Financial LLC boosted its position in Rio Tinto Group (NYSE:RIO  Free Report) by 6.6% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 355,848 shares of the mining companys stock after acquiring an additional 21,891 shares during the quarter. LPL Financial LLCs holdings in Rio Tinto Group were worth $22,717,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in RIO. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership increased its stake in Rio Tinto Group by 58.9% in the first quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 12,899,694 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,037,135,000 after acquiring an additional 4,783,488 shares during the last quarter. Cowa LLC bought a new position in Rio Tinto Group in the first quarter valued at $26,000. Acadian Asset Management LLC increased its stake in Rio Tinto Group by 537.9% in the first quarter. Acadian Asset Management LLC now owns 2,514,532 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $172,457,000 after acquiring an additional 2,120,343 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. increased its stake in Rio Tinto Group by 176.1% in the first quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,112,031 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $48,114,000 after acquiring an additional 1,347,060 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP increased its stake in Rio Tinto Group by 26.9% in the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 5,475,787 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $440,253,000 after acquiring an additional 1,161,737 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 10.03% of the companys stock.

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Rio Tinto Group Stock Up 1.1 %

Rio Tinto Group stock opened at $63.12 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 1.99, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $62.54 and a 200-day moving average of $63.72. Rio Tinto Group has a 1-year low of $52.25 and a 1-year high of $80.51.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have issued reports on the stock. Liberum Capital upgraded shares of Rio Tinto Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, July 6th. Barclays upgraded shares of Rio Tinto Group from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upgraded shares of Rio Tinto Group from a neutral rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 13th. UBS Group upgraded shares of Rio Tinto Group from a sell rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, Argus cut their price target on shares of Rio Tinto Group from $80.00 to $72.00 in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, eight have given a buy rating and two have issued a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Rio Tinto Group has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $72.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on RIO

Rio Tinto Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Rio Tinto Group engages in exploring, mining, and processing mineral resources worldwide. The company operates through Iron Ore, Aluminium, Copper, and Minerals Segments. It offers aluminum, copper, iron ore, diamonds, gold, borates, titanium dioxide, salt, silver, molybdenum, and lithium. The company also owns and operates open pit and underground mines, refineries, smelters, and concentrator facilities, as well as power stations, research, and service facilities.

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Merit Financial Group LLC bought a new stake in Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 2,528 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $262,000.

A number of other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of RCL. Manchester Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in the 1st quarter valued at about $25,000. Front Row Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises by 134.3% in the 1st quarter. Front Row Advisors LLC now owns 410 shares of the companys stock valued at $27,000 after purchasing an additional 235 shares in the last quarter. SOA Wealth Advisors LLC. acquired a new stake in shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in the 2nd quarter valued at about $29,000. Raleigh Capital Management Inc. acquired a new stake in Royal Caribbean Cruises during the second quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new stake in Royal Caribbean Cruises during the first quarter worth about $33,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.64% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms recently weighed in on RCL. HSBC began coverage on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in a research note on Monday. They set a buy rating and a $115.00 price objective on the stock. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $132.00 to $127.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 9th. Susquehanna increased their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $85.00 to $127.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research note on Friday, July 28th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price objective on shares of Royal Caribbean Cruises from $127.00 to $123.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 9th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Royal Caribbean Cruises has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $111.57.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Maritza Gomez Montiel acquired 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 10th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $103.70 per share, for a total transaction of $103,700.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 13,592 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,409,490.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. In related news, Director Maritza Gomez Montiel acquired 1,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 10th. The stock was acquired at an average cost of $103.70 per share, for a total transaction of $103,700.00. Following the completion of the acquisition, the director now directly owns 13,592 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,409,490.40. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, CAO Henry L. Pujol sold 18,908 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $106.74, for a total transaction of $2,018,239.92. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer now owns 23,521 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,510,631.54. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 44,857 shares of company stock worth $4,650,818 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 8.70% of the companys stock.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Price Performance

NYSE RCL opened at $82.22 on Thursday. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $93.27 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $89.85. The company has a current ratio of 0.20, a quick ratio of 0.18 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 5.28. The stock has a market cap of $21.06 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -256.93 and a beta of 2.46. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has a 52 week low of $45.80 and a 52 week high of $112.95.

Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE:RCL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $1.82 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.58 by $0.24. The business had revenue of $3.52 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.41 billion. Royal Caribbean Cruises had a negative net margin of 0.47% and a positive return on equity of 6.76%. The businesss revenue was up 61.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted ($2.08) earnings per share. Analysts forecast that Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. will post 6.05 EPS for the current year.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Profile

(Free Report)

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. operates as a cruise company worldwide. The company operates cruises under the Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises brands, which comprise a range of itineraries. As of February 13, 2023, it operated 64 ships. The company was founded in 1968 and is headquartered in Miami, Florida.

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Retirement Systems of Alabama increased its holdings in shares of Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR  Free Report) by 6.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 124,515 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 7,869 shares during the period. Retirement Systems of Alabama owned approximately 0.13% of Portland General Electric worth $5,831,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Cascade Investment Advisors Inc. bought a new position in shares of Portland General Electric in the first quarter worth approximately $36,000. Ridgewood Investments LLC bought a new position in shares of Portland General Electric in the first quarter worth approximately $39,000. Benjamin Edwards Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Portland General Electric by 150.9% in the first quarter. Benjamin Edwards Inc. now owns 946 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $46,000 after buying an additional 569 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC lifted its stake in shares of Portland General Electric by 29.4% in the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 1,476 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $72,000 after buying an additional 335 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ronald Blue Trust Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Portland General Electric by 31.5% in the first quarter. Ronald Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,035 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $99,000 after buying an additional 488 shares in the last quarter.

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Portland General Electric Stock Up 0.9 %

Shares of POR stock opened at $40.14 on Thursday. Portland General Electric has a 12 month low of $38.01 and a 12 month high of $51.58. The stock has a market cap of $4.06 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.73, a P/E/G ratio of 2.52 and a beta of 0.57. The company has a current ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 0.75 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $42.44 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $46.48.

Portland General Electric Dividend Announcement

Portland General Electric ( NYSE:POR Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Friday, July 28th. The utilities provider reported $0.44 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.49 by ($0.05). Portland General Electric had a net margin of 7.82% and a return on equity of 8.03%. The business had revenue of $648.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $571.82 million. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.72 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 9.6% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts expect that Portland General Electric will post 2.63 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 26th will be paid a $0.475 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 22nd. This represents a $1.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.73%. Portland General Electrics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 79.17%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com downgraded shares of Portland General Electric from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Sunday, October 1st. Mizuho lowered their price objective on shares of Portland General Electric from $44.00 to $42.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Guggenheim lowered their price objective on shares of Portland General Electric from $48.00 to $45.00 in a research report on Monday, October 9th. TheStreet downgraded shares of Portland General Electric from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 13th. Finally, UBS Group lowered their price objective on shares of Portland General Electric from $46.00 to $43.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 9th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $47.13.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Portland General Electric

Insider Transactions at Portland General Electric

In other news, VP Anne Frances Mersereau sold 1,071 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, August 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.83, for a total value of $50,154.93. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 17,962 shares of the companys stock, valued at $841,160.46. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.51% of the companys stock.

About Portland General Electric

(Free Report)

Portland General Electric Company, an integrated electric utility company, engages in the generation, wholesale purchase, transmission, distribution, and retail sale of electricity in the state of Oregon. It operates six thermal plants, three wind farms, and seven hydroelectric facilities. As of December 31, 2022, the company owned an electric transmission system consisting of 1,255 circuit miles, including 269 circuit miles of 500 kilovolt line, 413 circuit miles of 230 kilovolt line, and 573 miles of 115 kilovolt line; and served 926 thousand retail customers in 51 cities.

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Retirement Systems of Alabama lessened its stake in The Boston Beer Company, Inc. (NYSE:SAM  Free Report) by 1.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 18,598 shares of the companys stock after selling 219 shares during the quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama owned approximately 0.15% of Boston Beer worth $5,736,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Southeastern Asset Management Inc. TN acquired a new stake in Boston Beer during the 1st quarter worth $35,680,000. Loomis Sayles & Co. L P acquired a new stake in Boston Beer during the 1st quarter worth $38,859,000. Millennium Management LLC acquired a new stake in Boston Beer during the 2nd quarter worth $18,690,000. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its stake in Boston Beer by 119.6% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 92,524 shares of the companys stock worth $35,943,000 after purchasing an additional 50,384 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Federated Hermes Inc. boosted its stake in Boston Beer by 3,954.5% during the 1st quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 51,168 shares of the companys stock worth $19,877,000 after purchasing an additional 49,906 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 64.10% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on SAM shares. Cfra lifted their target price on shares of Boston Beer from $300.00 to $350.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Friday, July 28th. Evercore ISI lowered their price target on shares of Boston Beer from $330.00 to $320.00 and set an in-line rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 21st. Royal Bank of Canada boosted their price target on shares of Boston Beer from $311.00 to $328.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their price target on shares of Boston Beer from $297.00 to $276.00 in a research report on Monday, July 17th. Finally, Citigroup boosted their price target on shares of Boston Beer from $350.00 to $370.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 11th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have assigned a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $328.62.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, insider John C. Geist sold 3,524 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $353.00, for a total transaction of $1,243,972.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 5,573 shares in the company, valued at $1,967,269. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In related news, insider Samuel A. Calagione III sold 12,901 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $361.76, for a total transaction of $4,667,065.76. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 82,050 shares in the company, valued at $29,682,408. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider John C. Geist sold 3,524 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $353.00, for a total transaction of $1,243,972.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 5,573 shares in the company, valued at $1,967,269. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 23.30% of the companys stock.

Boston Beer Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:SAM opened at $372.38 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.56 billion, a PE ratio of 70.66, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.82 and a beta of 1.02. The firms 50-day moving average is $368.89 and its two-hundred day moving average is $340.14. The Boston Beer Company, Inc. has a 1 year low of $296.27 and a 1 year high of $420.83.

Boston Beer (NYSE:SAM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $4.72 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.45 by $1.27. The company had revenue of $603.30 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $590.03 million. Boston Beer had a net margin of 3.06% and a return on equity of 7.94%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 2.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $4.31 earnings per share. Analysts expect that The Boston Beer Company, Inc. will post 7.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Boston Beer Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Boston Beer Company, Inc engages in the production and sale of alcohol beverages primarily in the United States. The company's flagship beer is Samuel Adams Boston Lager. It offers various beers, hard ciders, flavored malt beverages, and hard seltzers under the Samuel Adams, Twisted Tea, Truly Hard Seltzer, Angry Orchard, Dogfish Head, Angel City, Coney Island, and Havana Lager brand names.

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Retirement Systems of Alabama lowered its position in EnerSys (NYSE:ENS  Free Report) by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 52,644 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 733 shares during the quarter. Retirement Systems of Alabama owned 0.13% of EnerSys worth $5,713,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Quantbot Technologies LP acquired a new position in shares of EnerSys in the first quarter valued at approximately $60,000. Covestor Ltd increased its stake in shares of EnerSys by 58.2% in the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 930 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $69,000 after buying an additional 342 shares during the period. SkyView Investment Advisors LLC bought a new stake in EnerSys in the first quarter valued at approximately $87,000. Assetmark Inc. boosted its holdings in EnerSys by 33.9% in the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,138 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $99,000 after acquiring an additional 288 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Tower Research Capital LLC TRC boosted its holdings in EnerSys by 15.0% in the first quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 1,232 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $107,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 91.56% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts recently commented on the company. CL King assumed coverage on EnerSys in a report on Friday, July 14th. They issued a buy rating and a $137.00 target price on the stock. Oppenheimer reduced their target price on EnerSys from $119.00 to $117.00 in a report on Friday, August 11th. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on EnerSys in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a strong-buy rating on the stock.

EnerSys Price Performance

EnerSys stock opened at $86.10 on Thursday. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.85, a PEG ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 1.36. EnerSys has a 52-week low of $62.75 and a 52-week high of $113.34. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $96.57 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $96.98. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a quick ratio of 1.48 and a current ratio of 2.76.

EnerSys (NYSE:ENS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 9th. The industrial products company reported $1.89 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.80 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $908.60 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $968.70 million. EnerSys had a return on equity of 16.17% and a net margin of 5.69%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 1.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.15 EPS. On average, equities analysts predict that EnerSys will post 7.78 earnings per share for the current year.

EnerSys Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 15th were issued a dividend of $0.225 per share. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.05%. This is a boost from EnerSyss previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 14th. EnerSyss dividend payout ratio is presently 17.61%.

EnerSys Company Profile

(Free Report)

EnerSys provides various stored energy solutions for industrial applications worldwide. It operates in three segments: Energy Systems, Motive Power, and Specialty. The company offers uninterruptible power systems applications for computer and computer-controlled systems, as well as telecommunications systems; switchgear and electrical control systems used in industrial facilities and electric utilities, large-scale energy storage, and energy pipelines; integrated power solutions and services to broadband, telecom, renewable, and industrial customers; and thermally managed cabinets and enclosures for electronic equipment and batteries.

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TD SYNNEX Co. (NYSE:SNX  Get Free Report) major shareholder Star Developments Ltd Silver sold 69,130 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 20th. The stock was sold at an average price of $95.16, for a total transaction of $6,578,410.80. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 2,064,649 shares of the companys stock, valued at $196,471,998.84. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Large shareholders that own 10% or more of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

TD SYNNEX Trading Down 1.2 %

NYSE:SNX opened at $90.19 on Thursday. TD SYNNEX Co. has a 12 month low of $86.30 and a 12 month high of $111.57. The firm has a market cap of $8.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.96, a P/E/G ratio of 1.03 and a beta of 1.59. The company has a quick ratio of 0.75, a current ratio of 1.23 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.38. The companys 50 day moving average is $98.39 and its 200-day moving average is $95.37.

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TD SYNNEX (NYSE:SNX  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, September 26th. The business services provider reported $2.78 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.47 by $0.31. TD SYNNEX had a net margin of 1.45% and a return on equity of 12.95%. The company had revenue of $13.96 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $14.11 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $2.69 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was down 9.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities analysts anticipate that TD SYNNEX Co. will post 10.45 EPS for the current year.

TD SYNNEX Announces Dividend

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 27th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 13th will be paid a $0.35 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, October 12th. This represents a $1.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.55%. TD SYNNEXs payout ratio is 20.11%.

SNX has been the topic of several research analyst reports. Barrington Research boosted their price target on shares of TD SYNNEX from $115.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, September 29th. StockNews.com started coverage on TD SYNNEX in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Barclays upped their target price on TD SYNNEX from $98.00 to $99.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 27th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and set a $97.00 price target on shares of TD SYNNEX in a report on Wednesday, September 27th. Finally, Bank of America cut their price objective on shares of TD SYNNEX from $120.00 to $115.00 in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, TD SYNNEX has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $110.27.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on SNX

Institutional Investors Weigh In On TD SYNNEX

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of SNX. American Century Companies Inc. grew its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 31.5% in the first 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 grew its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 11.6% in the first quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 7,213 shares of the business services providers stock worth $745,000 after acquiring an additional 747 shares during the last quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 7.6% in the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 9,614 shares of the business services providers stock worth $992,000 after acquiring an additional 677 shares during the last quarter. Bank of Montreal Can grew its stake in shares of TD SYNNEX by 202.3% in the first quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 53,183 shares of the business services providers stock worth $5,569,000 after acquiring an additional 35,593 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan Trust Fund acquired a new stake in shares of TD SYNNEX in the first quarter worth $1,065,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 84.00% of the companys stock.

TD SYNNEX Company Profile

(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.

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Truist Financial Corp reduced its stake in shares of EnerSys (NYSE:ENS  Free Report) by 6.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 97,359 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 6,953 shares during the period. Truist Financial Corp owned 0.24% of EnerSys worth $10,565,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of ENS. Quantbot Technologies LP acquired a new position in EnerSys in the 1st quarter worth about $60,000. Covestor Ltd raised its position in EnerSys by 58.2% during the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 930 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $69,000 after acquiring an additional 342 shares in the last quarter. SkyView Investment Advisors LLC bought a new position in EnerSys during the first quarter valued at approximately $87,000. Assetmark Inc. lifted its stake in EnerSys by 33.9% in the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 1,138 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $99,000 after acquiring an additional 288 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Tower Research Capital LLC TRC grew its position in EnerSys by 15.0% in the first quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 1,232 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $107,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares in the last quarter. 91.56% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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EnerSys Trading Down 2.4 %

Shares of EnerSys stock opened at $86.10 on Thursday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $96.57 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $96.98. The firm has a market capitalization of $3.53 billion, a PE ratio of 16.85, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 1.36. EnerSys has a 52-week low of $62.75 and a 52-week high of $113.34. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54, a current ratio of 2.76 and a quick ratio of 1.48.

EnerSys Increases Dividend

EnerSys ( NYSE:ENS Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 9th. The industrial products company reported $1.89 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.80 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $908.60 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $968.70 million. EnerSys had a net margin of 5.69% and a return on equity of 16.17%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 1.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $1.15 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect that EnerSys will post 7.78 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 29th. Investors of record on Friday, September 15th were issued a dividend of $0.225 per share. This represents a $0.90 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.05%. This is a boost from EnerSyss previous quarterly dividend of $0.18. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 14th. EnerSyss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 17.61%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have commented on ENS shares. StockNews.com initiated coverage on EnerSys in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a strong-buy rating on the stock. CL King started coverage on shares of EnerSys in a research note on Friday, July 14th. They issued a buy rating and a $137.00 target price for the company. Finally, Oppenheimer lowered their price target on EnerSys from $119.00 to $117.00 in a research note on Friday, August 11th.

View Our Latest Report on EnerSys

EnerSys Profile

(Free Report)

EnerSys provides various stored energy solutions for industrial applications worldwide. It operates in three segments: Energy Systems, Motive Power, and Specialty. The company offers uninterruptible power systems applications for computer and computer-controlled systems, as well as telecommunications systems; switchgear and electrical control systems used in industrial facilities and electric utilities, large-scale energy storage, and energy pipelines; integrated power solutions and services to broadband, telecom, renewable, and industrial customers; and thermally managed cabinets and enclosures for electronic equipment and batteries.

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Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC grew its holdings in Bank of Hawaii Co. (NYSE:BOH  Free Report) by 84.4% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 7,664 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 3,508 shares during the period. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLCs holdings in Bank of Hawaii were worth $316,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in BOH. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC grew its position in Bank of Hawaii by 5,563.6% in the first quarter. Eagle Bay Advisors LLC now owns 623 shares of the banks stock valued at $32,000 after acquiring an additional 612 shares in the last quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. grew its holdings in Bank of Hawaii by 160.9% during the 4th quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 647 shares of the banks stock valued at $50,000 after purchasing an additional 399 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd grew its holdings in Bank of Hawaii by 72.4% during the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 707 shares of the banks stock valued at $59,000 after purchasing an additional 297 shares in the last quarter. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd increased its stake in Bank of Hawaii by 27.9% during the 1st quarter. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd now owns 710 shares of the banks stock worth $60,000 after buying an additional 155 shares during the period. Finally, Captrust Financial Advisors lifted its holdings in Bank of Hawaii by 91.0% in the 1st quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 938 shares of the banks stock worth $79,000 after buying an additional 447 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.46% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of analysts have recently issued reports on BOH shares. Piper Sandler lifted their target price on Bank of Hawaii from $45.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 25th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their target price on Bank of Hawaii from $49.00 to $52.00 in a research report on Tuesday, October 10th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded shares of Bank of Hawaii from a market perform rating to an underperform rating and set a $47.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Tuesday, July 25th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and two have assigned a hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average target price of $52.67.

Bank of Hawaii Stock Performance

Bank of Hawaii stock opened at $47.15 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $1.87 billion, a PE ratio of 9.56, a P/E/G ratio of 1.36 and a beta of 1.03. Bank of Hawaii Co. has a 12 month low of $30.83 and a 12 month high of $82.87. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $50.24 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $47.81. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a current ratio of 0.69 and a quick ratio of 0.73.

Bank of Hawaii (NYSE:BOH  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 23rd. The bank reported $1.17 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.97 by $0.20. The business had revenue of $262.28 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $159.75 million. Bank of Hawaii had a net margin of 21.32% and a return on equity of 17.30%. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.28 EPS. Research analysts expect that Bank of Hawaii Co. will post 4.41 earnings per share for the current year.

Bank of Hawaii Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 14th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 30th will be given a dividend of $0.70 per share. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.94%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 29th. Bank of Hawaiis payout ratio is 56.80%.

Bank of Hawaii Company Profile

(Free Report)

Bank of Hawaii Corporation operates as the bank holding company for Bank of Hawaii that provides various financial products and services in Hawaii, Guam, and other Pacific Islands. It operates in three segments: Consumer Banking, Commercial Banking, and Treasury and Other. The Consumer Banking segment offers checking, savings, and time deposit accounts; residential mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit, automobile loans and leases, personal lines of credit, installment loans, small business loans and leases, and credit cards; private and international client banking, investment, credit, and trust services to individuals and families, and high-net-worth individuals; investment management; institutional investment advisory services to corporations, government entities, and foundations; and brokerage offerings, including equities, mutual funds, life insurance, and annuity products.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding BOH? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Bank of Hawaii Co. (NYSE:BOH  Free Report).

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Interview: BRI a pivotal development initiative in favour of all, Egyptian expert says

Xinhua) 16:01, October 26, 2023

CAIRO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a pivotal development initiative in favour of all, said an Egyptian expert.

"The BRI is extremely important for humanity, not just for China," said Diaa Helmy, an Egyptian expert on Chinese affairs, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

Over the past decade, the initiative has made a positive impact on developing countries by upgrading infrastructure in partner states, especially those in Africa and Asia, said Helmy, secretary-general of the Cairo-based Egyptian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Proposed by China in 2013, the BRI can be described as "the initiative of the century" or "the initiative of modern human history," said the Egyptian expert, adding that it has greatly boosted cooperation among participating states in the face of various challenges.

"The success of the initiative can be seen in its growing popularity and the increasing cooperation among BRI states," he said.

The initiative is vital for developing economies in general, particularly those in Africa, and is expected to lead them "to broad horizons of development, progress and prosperity," said the expert.

He pointed out that amid growing conflicts and tensions worldwide, the BRI seeks win-win partnerships and common development among participating countries.

Noting that Egypt was one of six countries officially invited to join BRICS, he said cooperation between Egypt and China has been on the rise in recent years and is to reach new horizons in the near future.

Egypt and China can work together for the development of Africa through the localization of Chinese advanced industries and the transfer of Chinese technologies to the continent, according to Helmy.

With its potential market and strategic status, Egypt can be a regional hub for the localization of Chinese technologies and industries, and become a key bridge connecting China, Africa and the Arab world under the BRI framework, he added.

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
President Droupadi Murmu being received by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin upon her arrival at Chennai airport, on Thursday. (Image: PTI)

Chennai: President Droupadi Murmu arrived here on Thursday to preside over the eighth convocation of the Indian Maritime University (IMU) on October 27.On her arrival here from Karnataka, Murmu was accorded a warm welcome at the airport by Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister M K Stalin and state ministers including Duraimurugan.

President Murmu, Governor Ravi, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal and Tamil Nadu Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy will take part in the convocation ceremony, a PIB press release said.

At the varsity campus, Sonowal will lay the foundation stone for an innovation lab (Rs 6.8 crore) and an administrative block 'C' (Rs 21.25 crore).

During this event, 10 gold and 10 silver medals will be conferred on the meritorious students. Also, 1,944 students of the four schools from six campuses of the IMU and from the affiliated institutes will receive their degrees.

A total of 245 candidates will receive the degrees in person, including two Ph.D. scholars and one scholar of M S (by research), the release said.

Security was beefed up in view of the President's visit and her stay at the Raj Bhavan here. Murmu visited Karnataka on October 26. The IMU, a central university, is headquartered here.
The farmers would continue to get key soil nutrient di-ammonium phosphate or DAP at Rs1,350 per bag. (Representational image; DC file)

New Delhi: In a big relief to the farmers in the country, the Centre on Wednesday approved over Rs.22,000 crore subsidy on the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) for phosphatic and potassic (P&K) fertilizers in the current rabi season. Besides, it also announced that the farmers would continue to get key soil nutrient di-ammonium phosphate or DAP at Rs1,350 per bag.

Announcing the decision, Information Minister Anurag Thakur said, that the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the proposal of the Department of fertilizers for fixing the nutrient-based subsidy (NBS) rates for the rabi season from October 1 to March 31, 2024) on P&K fertilisers. "We estimate an expenditure of Rs22,303 crore as subsidy on fertilisers for rabi season of 2023-24," he said.

In May this year, the government approved a subsidy of Rs38,000 crore on P&K fertilisers for the kharif season of 2023-24. "Farmers will continue to get DAP at Rs1,350 per bag (50 kg each). Similarly, the nitrogen, phosphorus and potash (NPK ) will be available at Rs1,470 per bag and single super phosphate (SSP ) at around Rs 500 per bag, while the muriate of potash or MoP rates will come down to Rs 1,655 per bag from `1,700 per bag," Thakur said.

The Cabinet has fixed the NBS rate of nitrogen (N) at `47.02 per kg, phosphorus (P) at `20.82 per kg, potash (K) at `2.38 per kg and sulphur (S) at `1.89 per kg. For the kharif season of 2023-24, the government had a fixed per kg subsidy rate on N at Rs.76 per kg, Rs.41 per kg on P, Rs.15 per kg on K, and Rs.2.8 per kg on S.

Thakur said the international prices of finished products and raw materials have come down slightly, but it is still high, and therefore, the government is providing subsidies to maintain the old rate. "The fertilisers subsidy stood at nearly Rs.2.55 lakh crore in the last fiscal as against around Rs.73,000 crore in 2014-15," he said.

In addition, the government also approved the inclusion of the Jamrani Dam Multipurpose Project of Uttarakhand under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana-Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP), which will cost Rs.2,584 crore.

"The central support of Rs1,557.18 crore will be provided to Uttarakhand for completion of the project. It is scheduled to be completed by March 2028, Thakur said.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet was apprised of a memorandum of cooperation (MoC) signed in July this year between the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of India and the Ministry of Economy, trade and Industry of Japan on Japan-India semiconductor supply chain partnership.

The MoC intends to strengthen cooperation between India and Japan towards the enhancement of the semiconductor supply chain, recognising the importance of semiconductors for the advancement of industries and digital technologies.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi being received by Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis upon his arrival, in Shirdi, on Thursday. (Image: PTI)

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday accused NCP chief Sharad Pawar of playing politics in the name of farmers. Mr Modi also said that Mr Pawar, who was the Union agriculture minister for a decade, has done nothing for farmers.

The Prime Minister launched the "Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana", the flagship scheme of Maharashtra chief minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday in Shirdi. Besides this, Mr Modi dedicated various projects, including the new darshan queue complex at Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple in Shirdi and Ayush Hospital at Ahmednagar civil hospital.

Addressing a rally in Ahmednagar, Mr Modi said, "Those, who have played politics in the name of the farmers have made you (farmers) crave for every drop of water."

The Prime Minister said that his government is working to complete 26 irrigation projects that have been pending in Maharashtra for many decades. "These irrigation projects will benefit our farmers in drought-prone areas," he said.

Mr Modi further said he has performed the "Jal Pujan" of Nilwande Dam, which was approved in 1970. "This project has been pending for the last five decades. Our government has expedited it. The left bank canal has been commenced and soon the right bank canal will be started," he said.

"But few people in Maharashtra have only done politics in the name of farmers. I personally respect one senior leader from Maharashtra who has been Union agriculture minister for many years. But what had this leader done for the farmers? During his seven-year tenure, he had procured `350-lakh crores worth of food grains on MSP. But our government has paid `13.50-lakh crores of MSP in seven years," Mr Modi added.

During Mr Pawars tenure as Union agriculture minister, he said that farmers had to rely on intermediaries, resulting in lengthy delays in receiving their payments. "For months, farmers had to await their payments. Our government gave MSP money directly into the bank accounts of farmers," he said.

The Prime Minister mentioned PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, under which the small farmers received `2,60,000 crores, including `26,000 crores for the small farmers of Maharashtra. He said that under the Maharashtra governments Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana, farmers will get an extra `6,000, which means that farmers from Maharashtra will get `12,000.

Reacting to Mr Modi's address, Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil posted a video on his X account stating there is a contradiction in the Prime Ministers statement. "The Prime Minister, who had said Sharad Pawar saheb has done nothing for the farmers in 60 years. In his earlier speech, he had presented the facts about Pawar sahebs works," Mr Patil said.
The charges on which the eight Indians have been given the death sentence have still not been spelt out officially by Qatar and New Delhi too has not stated these in public, only saying that the charges levelled by Qatar against the eight Indians were presented as part of the hearings.

New Delhi: A court in Qatar on Thursday awarded the death penalty to eight former Indian Navy personnel on reported charges of espionage, which the Indian government called "deeply shocking" and said it would take up the matter with Qatar.

New Delhi has said it will challenge the verdict, adding that it attaches high importance to the case, and was in touch with the family members of the eight Indians. The government said it was exploring all legal options and will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. It added it did not want to make any further comment at this stage "due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of this case".

The charges on which the eight Indians have been given the death sentence have still not been spelt out officially by Qatar and New Delhi too has not stated these in public, only saying that the charges levelled by Qatar against the eight Indians were presented as part of the hearings. According to media reports over the past several months, the eight Indians had been accused by the tiny oil-rich Gulf nation of spying for Israel on a secret Qatari programme related to stealth submarines.

The eight Indian former naval personnel were reportedly employees of an Oman-based company Dahra Global Technologies and Consulting Services, a company advising on a Qatari programme aimed at obtaining high-tech Italian-made submarines that could evade radar detection and providing training for Qatars Navy. They were all reportedly picked up from their residences in Qatar in August last year for questioning and subsequently detained.

This is the second case in recent years involving former Indian naval personnel, after former Indian naval officer Kulbhushan Jadhav was sentenced in 2017 by a Pakistani military court to death on charges of "espionage and sabotage". India had dragged Pakistan to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in that case and Islamabad has not yet implemented the death penalty.

The eight Indian former naval personnel in Qatari custody were earlier identified by media reports as (former naval personnel) Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vashisht, Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, Sanjeev Gupta and Ragesh. Most of them were officers, of the rank of captain or commander.

In its statement on Thursday, New Delhi said: "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with the Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture."

External affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said at his weekly media briefing last week that the seventh hearing in the matter had taken place on October 3 in the Qatari court hearing the case, adding that both the Indian ambassador in Qatar and Indias deputy chief of mission there had met the eight men in prison on October 1 after New Delhi had been granted consular access to these men.
J&K-KUPWARA INFILTRATION. (PTI GRAPHICS)

SRINAGAR: The Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police on Thursday gunned down five more militants during a gunfight along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil sector in the Union Territory's north-western Kupwara district, officials here said.

Earlier three infiltrators were killed in a similar clash that took place along the de facto border in neighbouring Baramulla district on October 21-22.

The Army and J&K police officials said in capital Srinagar that the five infiltrators who were killed in the latest gunfight were members of the prescribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). "The joint operation is still going on", said Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Vijay Kumar.

A defence spokesman added, "Another major infiltration bid from across the LoC was foiled by alert troops in the Machil sector after killing five terrorists".

A statement issued by the J&K police here said that based on an intelligence input generated by the Kupwara police, the J&K police and Army's 56 Rashtriya Rifles successfully foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC. "In this swift and coordinated operation, five terrorists were neutralized".

Giving the details of the operation, the statement read, "After receiving the intelligence input, the joint party of the Kupwara police and the Army (56RR) swiftly launched an anti-terrorist operation during the intervening night of 25-26th October at Sardari Nar area along the LoC in the Machil sector. Besides, multiple ambushes were laid by the joint teams along the LoC. Today (Thursday), the joint team observed movement of terrorists in the thick dense forests of the area who took advantage of difficult terrain to infiltrate to our side. Employing meticulous tactics, the terrorists were intercepted who fired indiscriminately upon the joint team. The fire was retaliated, leading to the elimination of five unidentified terrorists linked with the proscribed terror outfit LeT".

The statement added, "The identification of the killed terrorists is being ascertained. A huge cache of arms and ammunition including five AK rifles and other incriminating materials have been recovered from the site of the encounter".

The statement quoted ADGP Mr. Kumar as saying, "Our intelligence maintains a hawk-eye on LoC. Neutralizing infiltrating terrorists continues along the LoC".

It added, "ADGP Kashmir has appreciated the role of the Kupwara police for generating the actionable input and the role of joint forces for swiftly tracking and neutralizing the infiltrating terrorists to defeat the nefarious designs of inimical elements who are hellbent to disrupt peace and harmony in the Valley".

On October 21, the Army and J&K police had "based on specific inputs from Intelligence agencies and the J&K police of likely infiltration in Baramulla 's Uri sector" launched a counter infiltration operation during which a group of militants was intercepted, leading to a heavy exchange of fire between the two sides. "The intense fire-fight continued till the last light resulting in elimination of two terrorists while the other withdrew to the enemy side of LoC along with the bodies of dead terrorists", the Army had said. The security forces had found two AK series rifles, six pistols, four Chinese grenades, blankets and two blood stained bags containing Pakistani and Indian currency notes, Pakistani medicines and eatables at the site of the clash.
MLA Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy joins the Congress. He poses with Manikrao Thakre, TPCC President Revanth Reddy, Uttam Kumar Reddy and others in Delhi. (Image: By Arrangement)

Hyderabad: The Congress is likely to release its second list of candidates, comprising 35-45 names, for the Telangana state Assembly polls on Friday, after its central election committee, led by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, holds a meeting to finalise the same.

Former MLA Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, who quit the BJP on Thursday, will also join the Congress on Friday. He is seeking a ticket from Munugode and also expressed his willingness to contest against Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao in Gajwel, along with Munugode.

The Congress declared its first list, of 55 candidates, on October 15, after which the screening committee, led by MP K. Muraleedharan, met several times at the residence of AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal in Delhi to finalise the second list of candidates. The screening committee meetings were attended by TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy, CLP leader Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and MP N. Uttam Kumar Reddy.

The top three leaders also attended the CEC meetings, starting last Wednesday, and reviewed the names of candidates shortlisted by the screening committee. It was learnt that the CEC was not happy with the candidates selected by the screening committee and referred it back for further scrutiny.

The screening committee reworked the list again on Thursday and referred it to the CEC, which will meet on Friday, due to prior engagements of Sonia Gandhi on Thursday.

Party sources said that the second list will be out on Friday and the third and final list will be released by November 2, following which the process of filing nominations for the Assembly polls will commence on November 3.

A consensus is yet to be reached on the two seats each to be allotted to CPI and CPM and a final decision on this issue is also likely to be taken in the CEC meeting on Friday.
Laura Ashley Holdings plc (LON:ALY  Get Free Report)s stock price crossed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Wednesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of GBX 0.39 ($0.00) and traded as high as GBX 0.39 ($0.00). Laura Ashley shares last traded at GBX 0.39 ($0.00), with a volume of 2,241,518 shares.

Laura Ashley Trading Up 27.9 %

The firm has a market capitalization of 2.84 million and a P/E ratio of -0.17. The businesss 50-day moving average is GBX 0.39 and its 200 day moving average is GBX 0.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 466.88, a current ratio of 1.07 and a quick ratio of 0.28.

Laura Ashley Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Laura Ashley Holdings plc engages in retailing furniture, home accessories, decorating, and fashion products in the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and France. It offers furniture for bedroom, living room, and kitchen and dining; sofas and armchairs; chandeliers, pendants, wall lights, table lamps, floor lamps, decorative lighting and accessories, and string lights, as well as lamp shades and bases; furniture, kitchen and bathroom, matt emulsion, and water based paints; and curtain, lining, PVC, and upholstery fabrics.

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Stellar AfricaGold Inc. (OTCMKTS:STLXF  Get Free Report) shares passed below its 200-day moving average during trading on Wednesday . 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 8,000 shares changing hands.

Stellar AfricaGold Price Performance

The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $0.01 and a 200 day simple moving average of $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.

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Derry City and Strabane District Council has passed two motions aimed at putting pressure on authorities to pursue a ceasefire in Gaza and a lasting solution to the conflict.

Both motions passed, one without the support of Sinn Fein's councillors at the full council meeting on Wednesday.

Councillor Shaun Harkin proposed the motion that caused more controversy at the meeting, with Sinn Fein, the DUP and UUP putting forward arguments against it.

The People Before Profit councillor's motion asked council write to the Irish and British governments to support the call for an immediate cessation of the bombardment and genocidal siege of Gaza and for the immediate expulsion of Israeli ambassadors.

Cllr Harkin said the expulsion of Israeli ambassadors would send a clear message.

We have to stop Israel from being able to conduct a ground invasion that will see a lot more innocent people killed, he said.

I think we have to be very clear and put that out there as a council because that's what the demand has been here in the demonstrations in Derry, Belfast, Dublin, right across the island, and globally as well.

I think we will send a very powerful message, if we actually call for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassadors to Britain and to Ireland.

There's six and a half thousand people dead in Gaza. There's scores of people dead in the West Bank. It's very clear that Israel is preparing for a ground invasion that will potentially see the slaughter of tens of thousands.

This is happening in a context where there's been a blockade on food, a blockade on fuel, blockade on electricity, a blockade on the means of life for people inside Gaza. And the trickle of humanitarian aid that is arriving in Gaza right now will not undo the catastrophe that has taken place.

He said it's important to clearly state what is happening in the region as Israeli authorities also become emboldened in their rhetoric.

I think we have to be very clear about the scale of war that Israel is conducting using the word 'genocide'. We cannot use that word lightly but that is what's happening.

This apartheid Israeli government is openly talking about moving Palestinians out of the areas in which they live: the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. We know that this has been at the heart of the expansionist Israeli project for many, many years, but they've never been able to speak it.

But theyve undermined any possibility of a two-state solution by encouraging this settlement of 700,000 Illegal settlers in the West Bank now. That is what has caused this crisis.

Cllr Shaun Harkin

Sinn Fein councillor Chris Jackson said the deaths in Gaza cannot be ignored but they could not support this motion right now.

At this moment in time we're facing a situation where people are being slaughtered on a daily basis. Hospitals are being stripped of vital energy to save people's lives, the population being starved of food and water. It's disgraceful. If it can't be described as a war crime, I don't know what can, he said.

But the information and the feedback that we're receiving on a daily basis from leaders within Palestine is that they want to focus on the immediate cessation of the indiscriminate bombing and for international law to be completely respected. It's been ignored for decades now. The focus needs to be on those key asks.

I completely agree with the sentiments around the expulsion of ambassadors and all of that but from within Palestine the message is very clear. The message needs to be focused on the cessation and the respect for international law. So on that basis, taken from those who are at the heart of the struggle, we won't be supporting the motion.

Cllr Christopher Jackson

Cllr Gary Donnelly said he was 'shocked to hear Sinn Fein would not back the motion.

I'm actually shocked to hear the refusal of Sinn Fein to support this. It's something that they will have to explain to people outside. It's thrown me here. People in Gaza can focus on nothing at the minute but staying alive, the independent councillor said.

He said a ceasefire is 'welcomed' but a long term solution is needed to prevent the cycle continuing.

You don't ask a serial killer to pause from their killing and hope that he or she is going to have a change of heart and not continue again. Any pause here is welcomed but there needs to be change.

There needs to be pressure on the Israeli state so they don't just re-arm and get back out again. There needs to be meaningful change. There has to be a ceasefire. But there has to be change.

It's been portrayed here that Hamas is the problem, Hamas is a symptom. In the West Bank, where settler colonists and Israelis are killing people with impunity, torturing people, burning people  there's no Hamas there. This is a war on the Palestinian people and hundreds have been killed and thousands have been arrested and there's no Hamas there.

He said the UK and US have essentially endorsed Israels actions by providing billions in aid.

The pressure needs to be put on and this is just a small step in expelling the ambassadors. We have a BDS position, a corporate position, in this council and we need to ensure that it happens.

Cllr Gary Donnelly

Cllr Donnelly took issue with comments made by UUP councillor, Alderman Ryan McCready during the discussion on the other motion regarding Gaza.

McCready said there's no winners in war. There are winners in war. It's called arms manufacturers, which he's part in parcel of.

There are winners, there's a lot of money to be made. We had one in this city, Raytheon, until it was voted out.

Alderman McCready called the comment a cheapshot and added that Hamas is a cancer.

I'll overlook the personal cheapshots at my profession of arms if members can heed the gravity of the following point: the fact that you or anyone would fly a flag or somehow give support to Hamas, of which I have already made a distinction to separate from the Palestinian people, but Hamas will have no problem whether you fly their flag or support Hamas anyway, the UUP councillor said.

If you were in their States right now, because you're an infidel. They would cut your head off and they would tear you down the street.

The fact that we're here in a nice environment without repercussions, we can say what we like, but that is the ideology of Hamas. It is just an extension of ISIS and Jaish. Across the Middle East it is a cancer.

Ald McCready said he takes issue with the expulsion of diplomats.

I would argue against that. The whole point is to communicate more, not less dialogue, but more dialogue. How can you go towards peace and reconciliation when you remove elements of how governments and communities communicate with each other.

Cllr Ryan McCready

Alderman Derek Hussey said the motion disregards the Hamas attacks on Israelis and said he supports Israels right to defend itself.

It's an incredulous motion to be honest with you. It purposely ignores the atrocities carried out by Hamas terrorists. Horrific acts that took place on 7 October inside Israel, among some of the most barbaric acts recorded and recorded by the terrorists themselves, the UUP councillor said.

I personally, and I believe our party supports Israel's right to defend its borders and indeed, their undertaking to remove Hamas from Gaza entirely.

You've heard my colleague, Alderman McCready, a man with experience of the horrors of war, made it very clear that there is the expectation that Israel will act within the recognized conventions in ensuring that innocent Palestinians are protected as much as possible.

"However, the actions of Hamas launching attacks from residential areas, from schools and even hospitals create circumstances where it is they who are placing their own people in harm's way. But what else would you expect from a terrorist organisation?

The motion passed with 12 for, eight against, and 17 abstaining from voting.

Cllr Brian Tierney also proposed a motion to push for a ceasefire and progress to be made for a two-state solution.

The motion proposed that the council take the following actions:

Condemn the horrifying violence and indiscriminate murder of civilians in Gaza and southern Israel.

Express its solidarity with civilians in the region who face the threat of air strikes, rocket attacks, abduction and the most unthinkable forms of murder every day.

Call for an immediate ceasefire and the implementation of robust humanitarian aid corridors to provide relief to the civilian population in Gaza, monitored and underpinned by the United Nations.

Further calls for the immediate and safe release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Support a full International Criminal Court investigation of potential war crimes committed against people in Gaza and southern Israel.

And call on the International Community to begin a fulsome diplomatic effort toward reaching a two-state solution to provide peace and security for the people of Palestine and Israel.

The SDLP councillor said the proposal comes from conversations his party has been having with organisations in Palestine and a discussion between Foyle MP Colum Eastwood and the Palestinian ambassador to the UK.

We need to see as an end to the terrible attacks that are happening in Gaza, I think it's fair to say that we've all watched on our TV screens over recent weeks, that terrible, terrible events, which are taking place at the moment, he said.

I think we're extremely well placed in this part of the world to understand that for any peaceful solution, there has to be a process. From our experience, the first stage in that process is a ceasefire. That needs to happen right away.

Indiscriminate bombing of men, women and children in Gaza needs to stop and it needs to stop now.

We also need to support calls for the international community to step in as a matter of urgency to bring this ceasefire about.

Alderman Hussey took issue with the fact that the motion was a pop up motion given that Hamass attacks took place on October 7.

Additionally, he took issue with comments from Cllr Harkin who said October 7 was not the beginning of the conflict.

Councillor Harkin said not to start on 7 October. The current situation commenced on 7 October like it or not, the UUP councillor said.

A true and lasting peace settlement for the Middle East is something every single person in this chamber believes should happen and hopes may one day be achieved.

The unfortunate truth is that there are those across the Middle East who do not want a true and lasting peace. They wish only for the eradication of Israel and of every person living in Israel. Hamas's stated aim is the eradication of Israel.

People have said Hamas is a prison for the people who live in Gaza. Hamas is the prison guards, make no mistake about that.

A concern that I have with this particular motion lies at the end because there is an attempt to prejudge a solution by saying the only solution is a two state solution.

Cllr Tierneys motion passed with 26 for and 11 abstentions.
A man has been jailed at Derry Magistrates Court charged with a number of offences in Altagalvin Hospital.

John Straghan, 34, of no fixed abode, appeared charged with disorderly behaviour, attempted criminal damage, assault and theft.

The court heard how, on July 9 this year, police were called to Altagalvin Hospital after reports of a man acting in a disruptive manner.

It was said that Straghan had been at the hospital several times in the days before with no medical issues.

When police were called, Straghan had been acting aggressively with staff and refusing to leave the building. He was also said to be preventing people from coming and going by holding the doors closed.

He had stuck his face into other patients faces and made grinding noises and spitting noises.

He then went into the paediatric ward and tried to throw monitoring equipment.

Straghan was unable to be interviewed while in police custody due to his 'violent and disruptive behaviour.'

A defence solicitor told the court that Straghan had clear mental health issues but added that he was being correctly medicated since being in custody.

He also said that Straghan was not normally the kind of person to be in the hospital causing trouble.

The court was told that Straghan had no reason to be in the city, but was living in a hostel at the time and had no intention of going back.

District Judge Barney McElhom said that he thought 'it's a wise choice not to come back here', sentencing him to six months in prison.
Derry and Strabane Council will write to the Secretary of State to request the ban of single use vape products.

The motion to take the action was brought by councillor Caitlin Deeny at the full council meeting on 25 October.

The Sinn Fein councillor said disposable vapes negatively impact society in multiple ways.

The first point I would like to highlight within the motion is the environmental implications surrounding the increasing use of single-use vaping products, she said.

Disposable vaping products are made with several materials  plastic bodies, copper and lithium batteries inside. These are very valuable resources that should be recycled appropriately to conserve our world's natural resources and prevent further extractions.

However, they are not being recycled with an enormous number of them being dumped into landfill every single day.

She said they end up in landfill, causing fire hazards and pollution risks to air, water and increase greenhouse gas emissions.

The second point I'd like to make is the health implications and how single use vaping products are readily available to our young people.

They are marketed with bright, vibrant colours to attract attention and have flavours that are designed to attract the attention of young people. All while cigarettes sitting beside them - also containing the addictive substance nicotine - are placed behind a sliding door.

Vapes are priced very affordably and are highly accessible to our young people, she added.

Cllr Deeney acknowledged that vapes are used as an alternative to smoking by adults. However, she said that 'teenagers are now led to believe that vaping is less harmful than smoking' but that 'this has not yet been proven' given the long term effects have not been studied.

She said that as a school teacher she is very concerned for the effects of vaping on pupils and this concern is shared among many teachers across Ireland.

Cllr Martin Reilly proposed an amendment to the motion.

We think there is a concern around the success of a call to have an outright ban on single use vapes as there are opportunities to circumvent that by providing rechargeable rather than single use which will still have the same impact on the environment and the user, the SDLP councillor said.

We also feel that those who use vapes to cut out the more harmful cigarettes will be penalised if there was to be an outright ban and we also know that selling to a child or buying on behalf of a child is already illegal.

Cllr Deeney did not support the amendment due to the feedback they've been receiving from relevant parties.

We've been listening to concerned parents, teachers, and health professionals. We can't be led by manufacturers who are basically profiting off the exploitation of children so we won't be supporting [the amendment].

Eight councillors voted for the amendment and 26 voted against.

Alderman Chelsea Cooke voiced her support for the motion.

As we all know vaping is very common and unfortunately it's very popular with the younger generation and in my opinion I don't think there's enough awareness of the dangers associated with vaping, the DUP alderman said.

E-cigarettes contain many dangerous chemicals, for example acrolein, which is a herbicide which is used to kill weeds.

I had a conversation with Chest Heart and Stroke. They currently have a vaping campaign raising their concerns about the impact vaping can have on your body for example, cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses.

The motion passed as originally proposed with 27 votes recorded in favour and six abstensions.

Meanwhile, Stephen Ryan, Managing Director of VaporLinQ, called the motion extreme.

It is clear that many of these products are irresponsibly manufactured, marketed, and too readily available to young people, he said.

However, given the significant role played by vaping as a quit smoking tool, as endorsed by the NHS, it is our view that this motion is an extreme measure.

We have been actively calling on the government to do more to meaningfully change regulation for several years, as it fully aligns with our mission to provide a safer and healthier vaping experience for our customers while stopping the supply of illegal vaping products in the council area.

We are committed to maintaining the highest standards within the vaping industry, all while extending our assistance to as many people as possible on their path to quitting smoking.
With the rise in demands for instant gratification, high performance, and smart everything, we are witnessing how AI inclusion in almost every industry revolutionizes productivity, design, and performance. The EDA (Electronic Design Automation) industry is no different; using AI (artificial intelligence) across the EDA design suite is the solution to improve performance and productivity. During the recent CadenceLIVE23 Europe, I got a chance to witness a panel discussion with an exciting title: How Will EDA Benefit from the AI Revolution?

The panel was moderated by Rosa Markarian and composed of renowned experts from industry and academia, as mentioned below:

Rod Metcalfe from Cadence

Jean-Christophe Glas from Arm

Hussam Amrouch from TU Munich

Hammond Pearce from the University of New South Wales in Sydney (UNSW Sydney)

In the hour-long session, the experts delved into the various aspects of applying generative AI in EDA in front of a packed audience. The moderator, Rosa Markarian, confidently stated that EDA is one of the few industries that doesn't see Generative AI as a job killer but rather as a welcoming solution to boost the productivity of engineers and combat the widening engineer gap. Nevertheless, many issues must be resolved, including copyright issues of the created code or hallucination of GPT systems. Apart from this, there were many intriguing discussion topics, such as

AI, its impact on jobs, and is AI a job killer in the EDA industry?

How AI is helping to bridge the gap and meet the shortage of skills in the semiconductor industry

Where are we on Gartners research cycle?

Challenges in verification and increasing cost

The impact on academia

and many more that I am going to reveal in this blog series. The panel discussion started with an interesting discussion about the impact of generative AI on chip design.

Click here to read more ...




HIGHLIGHTS Google had announced this feature during its I/O developer conference in May.

The aim of the tool is to give users some background information about the origins of the image.

Apart from telling you about the origins, it will also give you information about the metadata.

Were living in a world where content is thriving but fake content is thriving even more. Everyone has become a victim of getting exposed to fake news, and fake images which we end up believing in even though we might not want to. And this has become a huge threat, especially during sensitive situations.

Consider the current Israel-Palestine conflict. In a sensitive situation like this AI-made and morphed images can do a lot of harm. And in the context of this conflict, we are coming across many such fake images. Keeping this event in mind, Google has stepped up and announced its new About this image tool.

Also read: Google Bard gets a desi touch: 2 new features Indians will find useful

What will About this Image tool do?

The feature is not new, Google had announced this during its I/O developer conference in May. It will now be slowly rolled out to English users across the globe.

Essentially, the about this image tool is built to fight the fake images that are circulating on the web. The aim of the tool is to give users some background information about the origins of the image so that we can check if the image is an original or a morphed one.

Apart from telling you about the origins, it will also give you information about the metadata, whenever available, of the photos. Eventually, users can track down things and judge their authenticity.

Also read: Google Chrome getting new look for its 15th birthday: Check new updates

How can you use About this Image tool?

To access this feature, simply click on the three dots you see on the menu that pops up on Search and Google Images. However, Googles plans for integrating it with Google Lens are yet not known.

Eventually, Google will allow you to access this feature by right-clicking on the picture itself, or by long-pressing on the image, and you can even swipe up on the Google App when you come across an image that you want to learn more about.

Apart from that, Google had also announced that it was working to update its pre-existing Fact Check Explorer initiative and also wants to incorporate AI-powered Search Generative Experience.

With the amount of disinformation spreading about the conflict in Israel and Palestine, Google had to step in. It already offers the About this result feature to help users find text-based sources. The image feature is still in its development phase and well keep you posted about any new updates.
HIGHLIGHTS Jio has now partnered with a US-based SaaS firm, Plume to provide Smart Home services.

Plumes AI-driven cloud-based platform will be really beneficial for Reliance.

When the partnership matures, Reliance Jio will add two new services on JioFiber and JioAirFiber.

Ambanis Jio is surely making heads turn in the telecom sector and it seems that they are not ready to settle. Jio has now partnered with a US-based SaaS firm, Plume. We hear that this partnership has come forward to produce Jio home products. Lets find out more about this partnership and what are Jios future plans.

American brand Plume is considered to be the pioneer in network services and consumer experiences. Jio is now planning to get into the cutting-edge home devices market. It also wants to get into small business services. This is where Plume comes into the picture. With the help of the companys highly scalable cloud platform, Jio and Plume will be able to deliver their services to around 200 million homes in India, according to the company.

Also read: Reliance Jio AGM 2023: JioPhone 5G expected to launch on August 28

Plumes AI-driven cloud-based platform will be really beneficial for Reliance. When the partnership matures, Reliance Jio will add two new services on JioFiber and JioAirFiber. These are  HomePass and WorkPass. Both are consumer services that Plume and Jio will bring to life together.

Jio Smart Home services

Lets take a look at some of the services we shall get due to this deal. The services are:

whole-home adaptive Wi-Fi

optimization of connected devices and application performance

cybersecurity for connected devices

advanced parental controls

Wi-Fi motion sensing, and more.

Also read: TRAI angry at Jio, Airtel, Vi for fake unlimited 5G and 4G plans

Speaking about the partnership, Mathew Oommen, President, of Reliance Jio, said, As we continue to expand our portfolio of connected home services, it is critical for Jio to provide our customers the most advanced and secure in-home digital services, delivering the best end-to-end customer experience. With scalable and leading-edge platforms from partners like Plume, Jio will continue to strengthen and enhance our connected home service offers and experiences 

Because of this partnership, Jio users could benefit as with the backup of Plumes Haystack Support and Operations Suite, Jio will be able to work on its performance-related issues, find out network faults, and even track the customer experience.
HIGHLIGHTS A tipster has revealed the camera specifications of the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro smartphone models.

The Vivo X100 smartphones rear camera setup is expected to have a Sony IMX920 as the primary camera.

The X100 might also house a Samsung JN1 lens for ultra-wide shots, and an OmniVision OV64B telephoto camera for 3x optical zoom.

For quite some time, there have been numerous rumours and leaks about the upcoming Vivo X100 series. This series is expected to include three models: Vivo X100, Vivo X100 Pro and Vivo X100 Pro Plus. Now, a tipster has revealed the camera specifications of the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro smartphone models.

According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the Vivo X100 smartphones rear camera setup is expected to have a Sony IMX920 as the primary camera, a Samsung JN1 lens for ultra-wide shots, and an OmniVision OV64B telephoto camera for 3x optical zoom, reports Gizmochina.

Also read: Vivo X100, X100 Pro launch timeframe, camera & more leaked: Heres what to expect

On the other hand, the X100 Pro model will likely feature the same ultra-wide lens and telephoto camera as the X100. However, the telephoto snapper might offer a 4.3x optical zoom. Also, this smartphone could equip the 1-inch IMX989 camera sensor as the primary snapper.

Also read: Vivo X100 and X100 Pro launch confirmed: Heres what you should know

Both the X100 and X100 Pro models will likely come with a curved-edge OLED screen with 1.5K resolution support and a 120Hz refresh rate. Vivo might also launch another variant of the Vivo X100 featuring a flat display.

The Vivo X100 is expected to come packed with a 5,100mAh battery, whereas the Pro model will likely feature a 5,400mAh battery.

Moreover, both smartphone models are expected to support 120W wired charging, and the Pro model might also support 50W wireless charging.

Also, the X100 Pro smartphone model will likely come with the support for two-way satellite communication.

Shen Wei, the Global President of Vivo, had confirmed the launch timeline of Vivo X100 and Vivo X100 Pro during an event earlier this year. He promised the launch to happen at the end of the year.
Mitsubishi Motors to invest in Renault's EV venture, terminating production in China

Mitsubishi Motors announced on October 24 that it will invest up to EUR200 million (US$212 million) in alliance partner Renault's EV and software company, Ampere. The Japan-based automaker also confirmed that it will terminate vehicle production in China.

Nissan Motor had announced its investment of EUR600 million in Ampere before Mitsubishi Motors followed suit. IC design house Qualcomm also said it will invest in the EV venture. Renault aims to spin off the business and issue an initial publish offering in 2024. The French carmaker plans to hold over half of the new company's shares.

In an announcement on October 24, Mitsubishi Motors said its maximum investment in Ampere will be EUR200 million. It intends to improve its EV development technology and expand its EV line-up through the initiative with partners.

Nikkei Asia reported that Mitsubishi Motors aims to purchase EVs developed and manufactured by Ampere, selling them under its brand. The move will help the company keep its development costs low as it transitions to EVs.

Mitsubishi Motors announced on Tuesday that it will terminate vehicle production of GAC Mitsubishi Motors, its joint venture with GAC Motor, in China. Mitsubishi Motors cited the market changes in China in the past two to three years and the faster-than-expected EV shift. The statement came after rumors about the Japanese carmaker ending production in China arose.

The automaker said it released a new model in December 2022 to recover sales volume but failed. It has suspended production in China since March 2023 to adjust its inventory.

With the termination of vehicle production in the worlds' largest EV market, Mitsubishi Motors said it will record JPY24.3 billion (US$) of structural reform-related expenses in the financial statements for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2024.
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India joins forces with Japan to bolster global semiconductor supply chain amid growing geopolitical Impact

India approved a plan to partner with Japan to improve the global semiconductor supply chain, as India has benefited from the ubiquitous chips that gain geopolitical implications.

According to the Press Information Bureau of India, India's cabinet approved a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan for a bilateral supply chain partnership in semiconductors. The MoC is set to enhance collaboration between the two countries, with the agreement underscoring semiconductors' critical role in driving progress across various industries and digital technologies.

The MoC will officially come into effect from the date of its signing by the involved parties and is slated to endure for five years, and the partnership encompasses government-to-government and business-to-business cooperative efforts.

The MoC followed the India-Japan Digital Partnership launched in October 2018 for science, technology, and ICT cooperation and the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative signed by Quad, including the US, Japan, India, and Australia, in April 2021. Before the MoU, Japan and India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2023 for developing the semiconductor ecosystem in India, which covers IC design, manufacturing, equipment research, talent development, and bringing resilience to the semiconductor supply chain.

Japan is the second Quad member to help India develop a local semiconductor ecosystem and diversify global reliance on a few countries regarding the semiconductor supply chain. The US partnered with India to launch the US-India initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in 2022 and signed an MoU on semiconductors in 2023. US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated their commitment to building a resilient global semiconductor supply chain at a bilateral meeting before the G20 Summit.

Following the US-India MoU on semiconductors, US-based Micron announced an investment to set up an ATMP plant in India's western state of Gujarat, expected to operate by the end of 2024. Japan-based semiconductor suppliers are expected to invest in India following Micron's investments and the Japan-India MoC, with Disco having expressed interest in building a lab in India.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned that untreated raw sewage is flowing into water systems all over Ireland due to lack of water treatment plants.

According to the environmental watchdog, the equivalent of three Olympic-size swimming pools of this untreated waste is streaming into our water every day.

The EPA have since criticised Uisce Eireann after raising the concerns in a detailed report in which they described over half of the country's wastewater discharges are not meeting EU standards.

The report revealed 26 towns and villages around Ireland, that have a combined population of 54,000, are not connected to treatments plants which were;

Coolatee, Rathmullen, Burtonport, Roundstone, Carraroe, Omeath in Co Louth, Kerrykeel in Co Donegal, Falcarragh, Moville, Ramelton, Newport in Co Mayo, Spiddal, Ahascragh in Co Galway, Avoca and Arklow in Co Wicklow, Kilmore Quay in Co Wexford, Foynes and Glin in Co Limerick, Doldrum Bay in Howth, Ballycotton, Kilkee, Ballyvaughan, Kilrush, Whitegate and Castletownshend in Co Cork and Liscannor in Co Clare.

In the report, it states Uisce Eireann had promised 20 of the towns and villages above that water treatment will be in place by 2025 but now all 26 areas will not be addressed until the end of 2028.

The report recommends the areas must be connected to treatment as soon as possible as raw sewage poses and unacceptable risk to public health and the environment.

The report says that Uisce Eireann "should have a long-term plan for this work", but that it "does not have clear plans to prevent pollution at some of the most significantly impacted water bodies" adding that "It will take substantial and sustained investment over the next two decades to bring all deficient treatment systems up to standard, and also provide for future needs".

EPA director Dr Tom Ryan said it was concerning that 30 years after Ireland was due to comply with EU environmental protection standards, less than half of wastewater is treated to these standards.

He said:

"While it is encouraging to see continued progress in stopping the unacceptable practice of discharging raw sewage into our environment, wastewater remains a significant pressure on Ireland's waterways and is adversely impacting water quality.

"Uisce ireann must take the opportunity of its new investment plan for 2025 to 2029 to deliver wastewater infrastructure that meets the needs of our society and protects and improves our environment into the future.

"The investment plan must prioritise resources to prevent pollution in the priority areas highlighted by the EPA."

Uisce Eireann released a statement to say a record 450m was spent on wastewater services in 2022, but a multi billion euro investment plan is needed for the country's water network.

"Ending raw sewage discharges and improving wastewater treatment for cities, towns and villages across the county are priorities for Uisce Eireann.

"We are making huge strides in addressing these issues and we are now seeing real and tangible benefits from the unprecedented level of investment in this essential infrastructure."
The momentum created by the visit of a US trade delegation to Northern Ireland should be the spur to restore the Stormont powersharing institutions, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill has said.

Following a meeting with the US business leaders in Belfast, Ms ONeill said she was determined that the Assembly should come back as a matter of urgency.

The delegation of business leaders, led by US special envoy Joe Kennedy, is carrying out engagements over several days across Northern Ireland.

US President Joe Biden promised the delegation when he visited Northern Ireland earlier this year.

Political leaders met the business leaders in Belfast on Thursday.

Ms ONeill said it was vital to build on the momentum created by the trade visit.

She said: It is very clear there is certainly a sense of urgency.

The mood music has been very positive, we should build on that.

Clearly we want to be in our positions, being in the executive and actually meeting these people as first minister, as ministers around an executive table.

She added: I think it acts as a spur and it should act as a spur. The positivity and momentum that we can garner from this delegation is immense.

We have been speaking all week about the need for political stability. That has been welcomed by the political parties so the natural follow-through should be a restored executive.

I think the sense of urgency that everyone should feel right now is that this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Ms ONeill said she believed a deal to restore Stormont needed to be done in the next couple of weeks.

The Windsor Framework deal was struck by the EU and the UK earlier this year to reform the post-Brexit Northern Ireland Protocol, which created internal UK trade barriers and led to the DUP collapsing the Stormont Assembly.

The unionist party has made clear it will not accept a return to devolution until the Government provides further assurances, by way of legislation, over Northern Irelands place in the UK internal market.

The powersharing institutions cannot operate without the participation of the largest unionist party.

Alliance Party leader Naomi Long said if the DUP were not going to return to government, then the British and Irish governments should enable the return of Stormont.

She said: Im not going to be embarrassed on behalf of the DUP. I am ready to do my job.

It is up to others to allow us to do that. If it is not going to be the DUP going back into government then it needs to be the UK and Irish governments enabling those of us who are willing to go back into government to be able to do that.

She added: This is an incredible week, it is an incredible opportunity but imagine how much amplified that opportunity would be if we had a functioning executive and government at Stormont.

Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie said it was embarrassing to be meeting the business leaders without a functioning government in Northern Ireland.

He added: We need political stability. Political stability will help support our businesses and those businesses will support our economy and our economy will support our people.

It is a no-brainer for me. I think we will get there but I wish we were there now.

He added: From those on the outside looking in, the US delegation, they are looking at us and saying why dont you just get this sorted because it is clear that we are going to end up with the government, so why dont you just do it now?

SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said it was time for political courage from the DUP to bring powersharing back.

He said: I have been calling for the DUP to go back into government since the day they left. I dont think this ever solves any problems. The Windsor Framework is a good deal out of a very bad Brexit.

I do think we are moving in the right direction around the formation of a government. The bottom line is there is very little left to talk about. We know the shape of the Windsor Framework, we know there are ways of dealing with some of these problems.

We also know that businesses are telling us there has been a very smooth operation of these new arrangements. I dont think there is much left to argue about. Now is the time for political courage.
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As we enter into the final week in the run-up to Halloween, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee is urging people in Dundalk, Drogheda and the wider Louth area not to misuse fireworks this year. Not only are fireworks illegal but they also have a highly detrimental impact on some of our most vulnerable members, including the elderly and those with sensory issues.

In support of the awareness raising activities and work of the various organisations involved in this years campaign Minister McEntee said:

As the Halloween festivities begin, I would urge everyone to refrain from purchasing or using illegal fireworks.

They can cause severe injuries and physical and I sincerely hope that parents in particular will seriously contemplate this before purchasing them for their children.

A safer alternative is attending a professional fireworks displays organised in your local area or other fun Halloween events taking place in the community.

There are serious consequences for those caught misusing fireworks.

A person convicted of having fireworks in their possession with intent to sell or supply can face penalties including a fine of up to 10,000 and up to five years imprisonment.

Each year the Department of Justice runs an annual campaign to inform the public about the serious dangers associated with fireworks and the significant penalties that people face for selling or using illegal fireworks.

The objective is remind people that the buying, selling and use of illegal fireworks is an offence and complacency or ignorance of the law concerning fireworks will not matter if you are found to be distributing or in possession of such products.

This years campaign focusses on the significant distress that fireworks can cause vulnerable people in our communities, particularly elderly people and those with sensory issues.

They can also cause great harm and stress to family pets, guide dogs and assistance dogs, and that is why this years campaign was launched in collaboration with the Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, the ISPCA, Dublin Fire Brigade, and An Garda Siochana.

The Minister continued;

Fireworks can be very frightening for elderly people living alone and they can also seriously aggravate guide and assistance Dogs and other pets. I think that is important that we are mindful of these groups and consider the effects it has on their wellbeing.

Halloween can be a challenging time for elderly or vulnerable people that often live alone and the misuse of fireworks can add to the anxiety felt by many at this time of year.

On the dangers facing emergency services, Chief Fire Officer Eamon Woulfe from Louth Fire Service echoed the Ministers concerns about the dangers of using fireworks, the injuries that fireworks can cause to people and the strain that fire fighters and emergency services are faced with at this time of year. Fireworks have caused serious injuries in Louth. CFO Woulfe urged everyone to think before they act and what the unintended consequences of their actions might be.

Minister McEntee concluded:

I would like to wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Halloween, especially those in our emergency services and that everyone can feel included in this years festivities.
People visit Juilliard Imagination exhibition in Tianjin

Xinhua) 16:10, October 26, 2023

A visitor watches a play through an interactive device at the Juilliard Imagination exhibition held by the Tianjin Juilliard School in north China's Tianjin, Oct. 25, 2023. The Juilliard Imagination exhibition provides the visitors with rich displays of music, dance, and drama through audio and visual interactive experiences. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

A visitor watches the performance of an orchestra through an interactive device at the Juilliard Imagination exhibition held by the Tianjin Juilliard School in north China's Tianjin, Oct. 25, 2023. The Juilliard Imagination exhibition provides the visitors with rich displays of music, dance, and drama through audio and visual interactive experiences. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

People visit the Juilliard Imagination exhibition held by the Tianjin Juilliard School in north China's Tianjin, Oct. 25, 2023. The Juilliard Imagination exhibition provides the visitors with rich displays of music, dance, and drama through audio and visual interactive experiences. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Visitors listen to the audio at the Juilliard Imagination exhibition held by the Tianjin Juilliard School in north China's Tianjin, Oct. 25, 2023. The Juilliard Imagination exhibition provides the visitors with rich displays of music, dance, and drama through audio and visual interactive experiences. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
EBRD plans to provide targeted support to the cashmere industry in Mongolia

Assistance to increase the number of spinning facilities and foster sustainable farming

Bank co-produces an environmental impact assessment and policy recommendations

The importance of the cashmere industry to Mongolia, which accounts for nearly 40 per cent of the worlds raw cashmere output, cannot be underestimated. In a country with a population of around 3.4 million people, there are 190,000 herder households looking after almost 27 million goats. The processing sector employs around 10,000 people, and almost 90 per cent of factory workers are women.

The cashmere  a fibre obtained from a type of goat native to the Gobi Desert  is normally collected in March-April, when then goats are combed by hand. White, beige, warm grey and brown are the four natural colours of Mongolian cashmere, meaning the country offers the widest colour range available.

This raw cashmere is transported to processing plants, where it is sorted by colour and guard hair and contaminants are removed manually. The cashmere is then washed to remove any remaining dirt and dust, before being dried. Once dried, it is passed through dehairing machines and dyed. During the yarning (or spinning) phase, batches of dehaired cashmere are fed into spinning machines, which twist the fibres into yarns or threads. This is when the fine fabric, known all over the world, is born.

Finally, manufacturers knit or weave the yarn into a final product. This lengthy process, which can take up to half a year, is still manual at many stages. This is not because the industry is backward, but because many processes require a human touch so as not to compromise quality.

The EBRD has long worked with both processors and herders involved in the production of cashmere to make the entire value chain more sustainable. There are several major obstacles to the development of the local cashmere sector. Mongolias limited spinning capacity, for instance, means the country can only process around 4,500 tonnes of the 9,300 tonnes of raw cashmere produced annually. The construction of yarn-spinning facilities will require significant investment, to the tune of around US$ 100 million. Consequently, most of Mongolias raw cashmere is exported (mainly to China) without value-adding in-country processing.

To address such issues, the EBRD is working with the government of Mongolia and local financial institutions to provide targeted support for the entire production cycle, from combing to finishing. This support can range from tailor-made financial products, including working-capital financing, to consultancy projects aimed at improving farming practices and pasture management. The ultimate objective is to unlock the potential of the domestic cashmere sector, which could contribute up to US$ 1.5 billion annually to the Mongolian economy.

The EBRDs involvement is important for the sector not just because of the Banks vast experience in implementing green economy financing projects, but also because of its ability to address the most complicated environmental problems. Increased demand for cashmere from the international fashion industry means that Mongolia is rapidly increasing its number of goats, leading to overgrazing and the degradation and desertification of pastureland  a real risk for Mongolia, which is already badly affected by climate change.

To assess the environmental impact of this process, the EBRD, the countrys leading cashmere manufacturer, Gobi, and the Sustainable Fibre Alliance have jointly implemented the three-year Supporting Sustainable Cashmere Production project. The project has prepared detailed policy recommendations, as well as practical guidelines for herders on improving pasture management and identifying suitable models for traceability.

This is still a work in progress and will require significant expertise and financial input, but the goal is noble: preserving the industry and making it more sustainable is more than an economic necessity, it is crucial to maintaining the Mongolian way of life.
Plans for a significant expansion to a city graveyard  which, when complete, will cater to a range of different burial preferences  have gone to public consultation.

The proposals to extend St Catherine's Cemetery in Kilcully, first mooted in 2021, would see the footprint of the existing burial ground increased to provide 2,199 new standard grave burial plots, 880 cremation burial plots and 312 natural burial plots.

St Catherine's currently has approximately 5,200 standard burial plots, with only a limited number of new burial plots remaining.

Cork City Council, in its Part 8 planning report, said the proposed extension will cater for future demand for the next few decades.

The proposed cemetery extension site is situated to the west of the existing cemetery in an agricultural grassland field and will connect the existing St Catherine's Cemetery with the Kilcully Old Church and its small surrounding graveyard, the report stated.

In relation to the natural burials, the local authority said such burials are intended to be with environmentally friendly robust coffins such as good quality wicker materials with a simple small stone marking of the grave plot.

The planting of [a] small sized native Irish tree selected from an approved list of suitable trees will be facilitated as [an] additional marker of the plot.

No headstones or multiple coffin burials in each plot are proposed, the councils report continued.

'Innovative' proposals

Commenting following the commencement of public consultation, Green Party councillor Oliver Moran described the proposals as very innovative

and show how death has evolved and how diverse and personal remembering loved ones has become in the city.

The natural burial ground, he said, would be the first publicly-owned natural burial ground in Ireland.

A natural wetland will be part of the area too.

That will allow for a place for reflection for families and visitors, as well as being of its time in being important for climate and biodiversity.

The natural burial ground will also include a walkway and allow for the planting of trees by families of loved ones.

In that way, that section of the cemetery along with the wetland, will evolve into a peaceful natural park in time, he added.

Mr Moran also welcomed the proposed connection with the old church and graveyard in Kilcully.

Also among the proposed works is an expansion of the car park to create 53 additional car parking spaces, inclusive of six disabled car parking spaces.

The provision of a bike shelter to accommodate a minimum of five bicycles is also proposed.

The closing date for submissions on the proposals is December 4 at 4pm. For more information, or to make a submission online, see consult.corkcity.ie/en/.
A CORK rescue organisation and the Lord Mayor have raised concerns that thoughtless interference with life rings along the River Lee in Cork city could have tragic consequences.

David Varian, the secretary of Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery, said the group has removed 10 life rings from the River Lee in the last two months, unconnected to any rescues. The team made the discoveries during some of their routine patrols of the area.

Mr Varian said they are usually found in the river following busy weekends in Cork city.

The voluntary organisation works all year round to support gardai and the coast guard on rescue missions. Mr Varian explained that incidents of this nature can be very frustrating and is appealing to those carelessly disposing of life rings to consider how they would feel if their own loved ones survival was compromised.

A life ring thrown away is a life lost, he said. In the last two months, we have taken 10 life rings out of the water.

On a Monday we do something called sweeping, where we search the river.

Its always after weekends that we are noticing life rings floating down the river, seemingly for no reason.

He is appealing to those responsible to reflect on their actions.

The nearest life ring could mean the difference between life and death, he said. The person from Cork City Council who looks after the life rings is really good and hes replacing them all the time.

Our fear is that if someone finds themselves in trouble just an hour after a life ring is disposed of, they may not stand a chance.

Throwing them into the river makes no sense. It makes me so angry.

This could be their friend. It could be anyone. It can only be described as destruction.

Mr Varian has personal experience of the trauma surrounding river searches. He was speaking more than 17 years on from the death of his brother, Kenneth, whose body was recovered from the River Lee. Cork City Missing Persons Search and Recovery had taken part in a 10-day search for Kenneth, which influenced his decision to join the group.

Lord Mayor Kieran McCarthy also condemned the behaviour, and pointed out that these actions also puts the lives of bystanders at risk.

The person thats there and watching someone drowning needs a tool to help them so their lives are not unnecessarily taken too, Mr McCarthy said.

We dont want to double or triple the threat.

This is something the council takes very seriously because they have an officer who regularly checks the life buoys to make sure the ropes are not tangled up and they are all in place. I am sincerely asking people to think about the lives they are putting at stake.
REVISED plans submitted by Munster Rugby for its Centre of Excellence in Cork, containing a slight modification to the original application which was approved in 2019, have been green lit.

Cork City Council had previously granted conditional planning permission to the IRFU Munster branch for the construction of an indoor training facility at Musgrave Park.

This new facility at the Pearse Road end of the stadium is set to include a synthetic all-weather playing surface, gymnasium, changing rooms, treatment rooms, storage and office space and staff welfare areas.

The plans also include a new parking area within the site and all other ancillary site works including a ticketing booth and bicycle parking.

The planned new facility is to be built primarily for Munsters underage and development sides and will also serve the surrounding community and be available to local clubs, schools and community groups.

Earlier this year, Munster Rugby sought to incorporate office space within the new development, lodging a new planning application with the city council.

A document accompanying the application stated that, since the permission was granted for the new facility in 2019, Munster Rugby had assessed the evolving operational requirements of Musgrave Park.

The office space within the new development is to replace the existing single storey office building to the south of Musgrave Park.

The document stated that Munster Rugby would have no objection to a condition being imposed to restrict the use of the office space for use by IRFU Munster  a condition that was stipulated when it was granted permission for the existing offices in 2012.

It said the proposed development is almost identical to that which Munster Rugby already has permission to construct, with the only difference being the insertion of a mezzanine floor to facilitate the incorporation and relocation of Munster Rugbys offices.

Apart from the requirement to control the use of the proposed offices we do not consider the proposed Centre of Excellence building raises any new planning considerations and the incorporation of office within the previously permitted will allow for the most sustainable use of the proposed new building and for operational efficiencies for Munster Rugby, the document continued.

Cork City Council sought some further information before making a decision on the application and has subsequently green lit the revised plans, subject to 18 conditions.

The attached conditions have not yet been published.
A MUCH-LOVED park on the northside of the city is set to shine brightly this Christmas, with Cork City Council confirming it will install lights on a prominent tree at the local amenity.

The idea was put forward by Sinn Fein councillor Kenneth Collins who contacted David Joyce, director of services in the councils roads and environment operations directorate, requesting the installation of Christmas lights on a large tree in Gerry O'Sullivan Park this year.

As a frequent visitor to the park, I believe that adding Christmas lights would enhance the overall ambience and spread joy among the community.

Gerry O'Sullivan Park holds a special place in the hearts of many residents, and during the Christmas season, it becomes a gathering spot for families and friends, Mr Collins said.

The North-West ward councillor has now received confirmation that Christmas lights will be put up around the requested tree.

I can confirm that having investigated this matter Cork City Council will be in a position to install Christmas lights on this tree for Christmas 2023, he was informed by Mr Joyce.

The lights due to be installed will be battery operated, Mr Joyce said, as there is no accessible power at the location.

Speaking to The Echo following the confirmation, Mr Collins said the lights will be a boost to the local community this Christmas.

Its a beautiful, beautiful park within the heart of Gurranabraher/Churchfield area, he said.

I asked and it came up trumps. Its brilliant for the community.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has urged all Irish citizens currently in Lebanon to "leave now while commercial options remain available.

It has also strongly advised against all travel to Lebanon at this time.

Owing to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), the situation in Lebanon remains highly volatile, the department said, publishing its revised travel advice for Lebanon this evening.

In light of the unpredictability of the situation, events could escalate with very little warning. This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon.

Lebanon Travel Advice Update



We have reviewed and revised our Travel Advice for Lebanon 



Irish citizens are strongly advised to leave now while commercial options remain available.https://t.co/Zr2Ma2YF0X@dfatravelwise @IRLEmbCairo  Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) October 25, 2023

Citizens should be aware that, in the event that the political or security situation deteriorates, we are likely to be very limited in the assistance that we can provide.

Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable, the statement continued.

The department added that, if for any reason an Irish citizen cannot leave Lebanon now, any such individual should exercise extreme caution in their movements and put contingency plans in place to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.

It said that citizens should also ensure their documentation, including passports, are up to date.

There is no Irish Embassy in Lebanons capital city of Beirut, but Irish citizens in Lebanon who have not already done so are asked to register with the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo.

For further information see www.dfa.ie.
A man accused of throwing a corrosive liquid into another mans face at his front door in an alleged dispute between them over a partner has confessed to the crime of assault causing serious harm.

John Paul Carey had the case against him listed for trial by judge and jury at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. However, he pleaded guilty to the most significant charge of assault causing serious harm as well as assaults on two other parties on the same occasion.

When he was in Cork Circuit Criminal Court the defendant also produced a hand-written letter which he handed over to his senior counsel Elizabeth OConnell. Judge Helen Boyle was told that it was a letter of apology from the accused to the victim.

Detective Garda Maurice OConnor previously outlined the alleged evidence in the case against John Paul Carey, 36.

It was alleged that John Paul Carey had been in a dispute with Francis Costello after Mr Carey got involved in a dispute between Francis Costello and his ex-partner, who was in a new relationship with Carey, the detective said.

At around 9pm on March 4 2022 Francis Costello answered a call to his door at Connolly Road and he opened it to see John Paul Carey.

It is alleged that John Paul Carey threw a corrosive liquid in his face. He was screaming in pain and John Paul Carey began physically assaulting him.

John and Roy Costello  brothers of Francis  heard the commotion at the front door and went to see what was happening.

Roy said he saw Francis on the floor, John Paul Carey standing over him punching him, Det. Garda OConnor said.

Another man then allegedly appeared from behind John Paul Carey and threw a corrosive liquid at Roy and John Costello.

The detective said Francis Costello has lost one eye as a result of this incident and is named as a victim of assault causing serious harm. John Costello suffered damage to both eyes and would require plastic surgery, and is the identified as a victim of harm. A third charge is also of assault causing harm and relates to complainant Roy Costello who sustained injuries to his hands.

John Paul Carey was previously living at Dunmanus Crescent in Knocknaheeny, Cork, and also had a recent address at Allihies in West Cork.

He is to be sentenced on November 20 at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.
A Kilworth man has been accused of harassment and a series of driving charges including endangerment in the North Cork area during an escapade in September last year.

Jonathan Woodside of Killally West, Kilworth, Co Cork, was arraigned at Cork Circuit Criminal Court where he pleaded guilty to several charges against him.

He admitted harassment of a woman between August 1 and September 24, 2022. He then pleaded guilty to taking possession of a car without permission of the owner at Kilworth on September 24, 2022, followed by two counts of endangerment whereby he caused a risk of death or serious injury by his dangerous driving in the Fermoy area.

Jonathan Woodside also pleaded guilty to causing criminal damage and charges related to driving without insurance and other offences under the Road Traffic Act.

Defence barrister, Emmet Boyle, said: He is a university student and he has exams in February. I am asking for an adjournment to second next term [of Cork Circuit Criminal Court].

He has no previous convictions and has not come to garda attention since this occasion.

Mr Boyle BL also requested preparation of a probation report on the man.

Judge Helen Boyle acceded to that application and adjourned sentencing until April 26 2024.

The accused was remanded on bail and so far no details have been given on the events that gave rise to the charges on the indictment. It is anticipated that this will be given at the sentencing hearing.
WELL, that time of year has rolled round again, and the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival is already bouncing into action, ready for a nice, long and lively weekend!

Macy Gray at the Opera House tonight (Thursday) is already fully sold out, but tomorrow evening you can choose between Adam Ben Ezra at the Triskel 6pm or Kurt Elling at Everyman 6.30pm (also Saturday at 6pm). Matthew Halsall is at Everyman later tomorrow (9.30pm) and also Saturday at 2pm.

The City Hall will be jumping with The Charlatans tomorrow, Tony Hadley, and later Jenny Greene on Saturday.

Mack Fleetwood is at the City Hall on Sunday , 7pm, and later that night, Cork clubbing legends Shane Johnson (Fish Go Deep) and Jamie Behan (Bastardo Electro) join forces for a party on the dancefloor with one purpose: MOVE.

But there are so many performances, concerts, events on everywhere, in all sorts of venues, that you really will have to look up the website (guinnesscorkjazz.com) to pick and choose your favourites. Quite a weekend ahead for jazz lovers, make the most of it!

But please dont forget to remember your origins, and celebrate Halloween next Tuesday, October 31.

Its the ancient New Years Eve, with November 1 the start of the Celtic new year, and has always been marked by time-honoured customs and traditions.

At Crane Lane Theatre, they are certainly observing the proper date with Monsieur Pompiers Travelling Freakshow on its first ever appearance in Cork. You might well have been lucky enough to see it at Electric Picnic, but if not, haste you down to Crane Lane on Tuesday evening where doors open at 8pm for this freakiest of cabarets. Come in costume by all means, they say, as fancy dress is positively encouraged, and there will be a prize for the best-dressed ghoul on the night! 021 427 8487 or www.cranelanetheatre.ie

Tomorrow night brings a show to the Glen Theatre in Banteer guaranteed to make those winter blues vanish, with award-winning comedian Dave Young and A Night at the Theatre with Groucho, his portrayal of the legendary Marx Brother. Made famous by movies such as A Night at the Opera, A Day at the Races, Duck Soup and The Big Store, Groucho achieved legendary status for his one-liners such as Behind every successful man is a woman; behind her is his wife; I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member; I have had a perfectly wonderful evening, but this wasnt it. And so many more. Youll be quoting them for weeks afterwards! Show starts 8pm sharp. Booking 029 56239 or 087 7558752.

Rehearsals are now well under way for Cork City Ballets glittering production of Swan Lake, coming up at the Opera House November 2 to 4.

All the well-loved elements are promised, including the famous dance of the cygnets, the exquisite White Swan pas de deux, and of course that spectacular tour de force of 32 fouettes from the wicked Black Swan in Act III.

Guest star Katerina Petrova, prima ballerina of the Sofia State Ballet, will dance the lead role of Odette/Odile All this and Tchaikovskys glorious score too! Tickets are going fast, so dont delay. 021 427 0022 or www.corkoperahouse.ie

Ken OSullivan filming a blue shark in the North Atlantic, off Ireland.

After the jazz, you can go whalewatching (virtually at least) at Everyman on Wednesday November 1, when underwater cameraman Ken OSullivan (North Atlantic  The Dark Ocean and Irelands Deep Atlantic) presents Into the Deep, a live show in which he speaks about his adventures exploring the North Atlantic Ocean, encountering enormous whales, monstrous sharks and exploring the amazing underwater world. Ken will show videos and give insight and backstories into what its like trying to navigate this vast ocean and film some of the largest animals ever to have lived. Fun for all the family. 7.30pm start. 021 450 1673 or www.everymancork.com for tickets.
For many of us, heading out for the October Bank Holiday in Cork will be a chance to knock off from work and responsibilities, get suited and booted, and enjoy some of the best in music from around the world, as the Guinness Cork Jazz Weekend marks the height of the citys cultural calendar.

In recent years, for many of us, it must also feel like a bit of respite from the low, consistent background hum of anxieties that affect us all, as each of us negotiates living in an Ireland, and a world, thats undergoing multiple concurrent crises - including issues with housing, healthcare, and climate change, arguably not helped by the policies of successive Irish governments.

The aforementioned issues directly face people in Cork and beyond who are dealing with homelessness or housing difficulty, facing uncertain living and sleeping situations heading into the winter, in a year already pockmarked by the impacts and effects of extreme weather events like Storm Babet.

It might all seem like a bit much for one person to sit and process individually, but if youd like to get out and about this Jazz Weekend, and throw a few bob into Cork Simon, who do sterling work to assist people dealing with homelessness into emergency, housing and personal development supports, you might call into the Anything But Jazz gigs, happening Friday at trad outpost An Spailpin Fanach on South Main Street, and Saturday at local rock landmark Fred Zeppelins, on Parliament Street.

I guess it started with me and my partner, Queenie O'Sullivan, who is an artist and we often work together, says Sean Masterson, co-organiser along with his bandmates in idiot., self-described as a flaccid Cork punk band. We were just talking, and we thought it would be really cool if there was an alternative event during the Jazz. We came up with a few different names, y'know: Anything But Jazz, Not the Jazz, F**k the Jazz... we decided to leave that last one off.

It seemed like a great idea, but it'd be great if it had a bigger purpose, and we were just thinking that it's a cooler time of the year, and there's a big change going on with the weather and it'd be great if we could raise awareness, and a little bit of money - hopefully we get a bit, but whatever we can - and do some good with it. Everything that we're making, all the proceeds, are going towards Simon Community who I'm a big fan of, and would love to work more with them.

As one might imagine, the Jazz is a massive operation for the citys venues, as an influx of thousands of extra tourists, casual revellers and lapsed music aficionados converge on Cork for an event thats become a major selling point, and a longstanding example of live music as a civic social and economic good.

Daz-Gak: Playing Anything But The Jazz.

So, landing venues like the Spailpin, a place that will be milling downstairs as more heads seek out its trad sessions while on the Jazz trail, or Fredz, where many of the citys heavy-music denizens will be seeking a spot away from the jazzmatazz out on the main drags - see also, the well-remembered Jazz Funeral weekenders - is a minor miracle in and of itself, really.

I just went in, like, during the summer, maybe June or July. The Jazz was ages away, and Fredz were very, very welcoming to the idea. I think they loved the idea, and the Spailpin had the Thursday available. There wasn't too much wrangling going on.

What did get wrangled together, however, was a fairly substantial line-up of talent from around Cork and Ireland, spread across both nights of Anything But Jazz.



Friday at An Spailpin Fanach sees co-organisers idiot. joined by local math-rockers Daz-Gak!, rockers The Luminesc, and a solo set from musical polymath Dan Walsh in his Fixity guise, something of a coup in itself considering hes usually one of the busiest men in the city of a Jazz weekend.

Joining idiot. on the Saturday at Fred Zeppelins, meanwhile, are songwriter The Banshee, Dublin indie-poppers CABL, Dublin punx Slightly Dishevelled, and spectacularly-monikered Cork post-rockers Ruined Family Vacation.

Masterson speaks of the job of assembling the billing, and hints at ambitions for future editions, or events in a similar vein.

I'm absolutely delighted with the lineup, because we approached everyone, in the sense that any band we've seen, enjoyed or even heard of, was asked, and we've ended up with an absolutely massive lineup. We had to narrow it down a bit, but also, a lot of people are just busy.

I have hopes and dreams for next year, to balance it out a bit in terms of maybe even bigger acts, and bigger venues, if this goes well and it has a bit more of a name, and even more money will go towards Simon Community. For me, this is just a start and I really hope it goes well, and we can continue doing it.

The work that Cork Simon does all year round in mitigating the effects of the housing and homelessness crises cannot be underestimated - providing emergency accommodation and food, helping those in need available of short-term transitional and high-support housing, and assisting with long-term supports like employment and work placement programmes, as well as providing recreational and creative activities.

Running this during the Jazz Festival really isn't a knock against the Jazz. I love the Jazz, but it all feels like a big fancy weekend for Cork where everyone puts on their best boots, and the new suits, and it feels like... for these events, if we could just dedicate a little bit of our time and money to other Cork citizens who are struggling during that time, that'd be a good habit to get into for these big city events.

I feel like a lot of people, walking down the street and someone's asking them for money, or they look unwell, and you just don't know what to do, because like you're not taught anything about this in school but Cork Simon know what they're doing. They're an organised group who dedicate their lives to this every day.

Idiot: Playing Anything But The Jazz.

You can't give up your life to do something like that, and we all can't, obviously, it's good to raise awareness for the people who are doing that, and money for the people who are doing that. They're a good cause, and good for Cork, good for people.

Anything But Jazz happens on Thursday October 26 at An Spailpin Fanach, North Main Street with Fixity, Daz-Gak, The Luminesc and idiot. appearing; and Friday October 27 at Fred Zeppelins on Parliament Street, with CABL, Slightly Dishevelled, idiot., The Banshee and Ruined Family Vacation.

Doors on both nights are at 7pm, and entry is on a pay-what-you-can donation basis, with all money going directly to Cork Simon Community.

If you cant make either gig, you can make a donation online at https://www.gofundme.com/f/AnythingButJazzCorkSimon.
Olivia Kelleher

The family of a man whose body lay undiscovered in a house in Cork for over two decades have expressed concern that the tragedy may not be an isolated incident.

An inquest in Mallow, Co Cork has heard that skeletal remains found in a boarded-up terraced house in Beecher Street in the town on January 13th last were subsequently identified as being those of the late Tim OSullivan.

His remains were identified after gardai received a positive match with records from a local dentist who had treated him. He was discovered under a duvet on a bed in the house by two Cork County Council staff when they entered the boarded-up property after the local authority received reports of vermin infestation.

The plan was for council employees to change the lock on the house to allow Rentokil to go in.

The inquest heard evidence from Paul ODonoghue of Cork County Council, who said that he couldnt get the lock open so he and his colleagues had to kick the door in.

He noticed a considerable amount of post and leaflets inside the door of the property. Mr ODonoghue decided to do a quick sweep of the property. He spotted that there was a bedroom on the left.

I could see a bed in the middle of the floor. I then saw a shape of legs under the duvet, and a coat laid on top. I realised it was a human body.

"I went out to my colleagues on the street and I said, Im not 100 per cent sure, but I think I saw a body on the bed." They followed me in. We then observed with a lamp that it was a body. Mick Carroll (his colleague) then contacted the gardai. I did not know who lived in this house. I never observed anyone entering or leaving.

Another council employee John ODell in Mallow said that they had received a message from a local councillor in 2014 about broken windows at the property.

Land registry

He said that they could not establish who owned the property as it was not recorded on the Land Registry.

As far as they could determine, it was derelict. Mr ODell said in January 2015 he sent a request that the windows be boarded up, and this work was carried out.

Meanwhile, Garda Siobhan Costello of Mallow Garda Station attended at the scene after the workers called gardai, having made the grim discovery. She told the inquest that the workers had advised her that they had been at the house as a result of a compulsory purchase order put on the house by Cork County Council.

They had been there on the date in question as there had been a problem with rats. (Another Garda) and I entered the house. I immediately noticed a large amount of post and brochures on the ground.

"I entered the front room and immediately turned left into what looked like a bedroom. There I observed a bed in a skeletal manner laid on a bed. It had a blanket laid over it. All that was visible to the eye was the head and everything else was covered by a blanket.

Garda Costello said the scenes of crime officers were contacted to attend the scene. Local GP Dr Marian Donovan was called to officially pronounce the death of the man. The body was subsequently brought to the morgue in Cork University Hospital for a postmortem examination.

Sgt Eileen Kelly of Mallow Garda Station said in her evidence that she searched through documents found in 9 Beecher Street in an effort to identify the deceased.

Receipts

She found amongst other items receipts from a dental practice, a memorial card from 1980, a receipt from Tesco from the 9th of January 2001, an AIB book in the name of Timothy OSullivan and diary entries from the 9th, 10th and 11th of January 2001.

In one of the diaries Mr OSullivan had noted that he had gone to Tesco for the first time.

Social welfare records indicated that Mr OSullivan had been in receipt of Job Seekers Allowance from October 4th 2000 to January 23rd, 2001.

His claim closed automatically as and from January 23rd, 2001 as he failed to collect three payments in a row and the system automatically closes a claim when three payments go uncollected at the post office. Mr OSullivan had missed collections on the 9th, 16th and 23rd of January 2001.

Coroner Dr Michael Kennedy said that in all probability Mr O'Sullivan, who was born in Cahirsiveen in Co Kerry in 1939, had died in the property on a date unknown between the 9th and the 23rd of January 2001.

Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster gave an account of her findings at postmortem. She said that the remains were totally skeletal except for some mummification".

She reassured a nephew of the deceased who was present in court for the inquest that no evidence of trauma or fracture was identified. Dr Bolster said that there was no suggestion that the late Tim OSullivan died in any manner other than "peacefully" in his bed. Whilst no cause of death could be determined, there was no suggestion of foul play.

Family

A statement was read in to the record from Maureen OSullivan, a sister of the deceased.

She said that the late Tim OSullivan hailed from a family of five. She stated that Tim was the firstborn child, with all of his other siblings being UK nationals.

Both of my parents are originally from Cahirsiveen. Tim used to come over on holiday (from the UK) and stay where my Mam and Dad are from. Not long before my mother passed away (in 1990) I have been living here in Ireland since 1972.

"Tim was married when he moved over to Ireland. They were not long married and she (his wife) would have moved back to England.

"I would have contacted him by letter and I would have wrote regularly to him and he would have wrote back to me. A year or two after my mother passed away he stopped writing. I presumed that he had gone back to England.

"My sister Noreen who lives in Australia would have called to Tims house. She said that the house was boarded up. She said that she called to neighbours who said that he was gone shopping or gone away. She said she called to the pub across the road and they said the same.

"Noreen went to the guards that time and they hadnt seen him and that he had probably gone back to England. Noreen said that she did call the station a few times, but she never spoke to the guard she met when she called to the station.

Ms OSullivan said that she did not know who had boarded up the house of her brother. She said that Tim was never reported missing because the family thought he had gone back to the UK.

She went to Mallow on July 24th, 2003 in the hope of seeing her brother. She knocked on the door and didnt get an answer. She looked in the window and it looked like nobody had been living there in a while.

Ms Foster said that neighbours told her they had not seen Tim in a while. She said gardai told her that they presumed Tim had gone back to England.

We assumed he (the garda) was going to look in to it further. I remember phoning the garda a week later. He did not provide any further information about Tim. I expected that they (gardai) had gone in to the house but obviously no one did.

A sum in punts equivalent to 8,000 was found in the property. There was no sign of forced entry or anything suspicious.

Dr Kennedy joined gardai in offering his condolences to the family of the deceased. He said that it was a source of consolation to his relatives that there was nothing to suggest that he experienced anything other than a peaceful death.

In a nation with over 180,000 derelict properties, we worry that similar cases could remain hidden

He said: "We are deeply concerned that this tragedy may not be an isolated incident. In a nation with over 180,000 derelict properties, we worry that similar cases could remain hidden. We firmly believe that the current derelict housing legislation in Ireland is insufficient.

Ms OSulllivan said that the existing system and processes seem inadequate.

Sending notification letters to the derelict house, erecting a notice and waiting extended periods, often exceeding twelve months, before commencing the CPO (Compulsory Purchase Order) process, is an impediment to timely intervention.

Furthermore, local authorities appear to not have the authority to conduct the necessary legal searches in both the Registry of Deeds and Land Registry to determine the owner and to carry out subsequent searches to contact any next of kins before initiating or during the CO process.
Ryan Dunne

A Stardust patron has told an inquest jury that the fire she saw on the night of the fatal blaze was like looking into hell, describing a rainbow of colours that was mesmerising as the flames spread across the nightclub ceiling.

Christine Carr told the Dublin District Coroners Court that when she made her original statement to gardai she was traumatised as she had just lost her friend, Marie Kennedy, one of the 48 young people who died when the fire swept through the Stardust in the early hours of February 14th, 1981.

Ms Carr, who was just 16 at the time and with Marie Kennedy (17) on the night, told the jury on Wednesday that she saw a wall of fire when a partition went up in the club.

Then there was a backdraft, it disappears, and then youre looking into hell. It was just black, then the flames went across the ceiling, she said.

She went on to tell Gemma McLoughlin-Burke BL, a member of the coroners legal team, that she had made her original statement five days after the fire, and she was traumatised and suffering from "post-traumatic stress".

"My best friend was after being killed, said Ms Carr.

She said that when the partition went up on the night, there was "a wall of fire" before the flames spread across the ceiling.

"It was all rainbow colours, greens, yellows and blues. It was mesmerising looking at it, I thought it was magnificent, she said.

She said she headed for the main entrance and people were knocking her off balance. She said she got into the lobby and could see the two doors were closed.

The lights went off, so I held my breath, then I had to breathe. (The smoke) was like tyres, it was hot and there was substance to it, like ash. The only thing I could move was my head.

"Then I had to breathe again, and now I have no oxygen; this is when Im going to die. My mouth was open, my head was going back, and my eyes were rolling, and I remember feeling: Oh mammy, daddy, Im going to die. My next memory is being outside on all fours, said Ms Carr.

She told of how she was taken to hospital, and her father came in with Marie Kennedys father. She said that a nurse came over to them with Marie's jewellery.

Panic

I heard my dad screaming, so then I knew she was dead, said Ms Carr.

She told Brenda Campbell KC, representing nine of the families of the victims, that when she was trying to get out, everyone was pushing forward, and she heard voices saying: Open the door. She said she could hear explosions and there was panic in front of her. She said that the smoke was like hot burning tyres and ash.

Ms Carr said that she must have been carried out by the crowd, because she did not remember how she got outside.

The jury also heard evidence from Raymond English, who was 17 at the time and friends with Michael Griffiths (17), one of the people who lost their lives in the fire.

In his original statement, which was read to the jury by the court registrar, Mr English said that when he first noticed smoke coming along the ceiling, he went and opened exit four. He said it was not locked with a chain, and he was the first person to open the door.

There was a crate of bottles outside, and I had to push that out of the way because people were falling over them, he said.

In a second statement made in 1981, Mr English said that he had been incorrect in originally saying that it was exit four he opened, and he was sure that it was exit five.

I was the first there. I tried to lift the push bar, but it did not open. I messed around with it, and I wasnt sure whether to open it or not. A girl behind me started to scream and shout,

"Let me out, mister, and I then succeeded in opening the door. There were a few people behind me and they all got out. I shifted a container of bottles blocking the door. I did not see any chains or locks on the exits, he said.

Mr English told Simon Mills SC, a member of the coroners legal team, that the gardai had asked him where he was on the dance floor, and when he indicated to them what the closest exit seemed to be, they said it must have been exit five.

The only thing that I knew for definite was that there was a skip of bottles outside the door, he said.

He confirmed to Mr Mills that the jury could be satisfied that he left via the exit with a skip of bottles outside.

Chains on the doors

He said he definitely did not remember seeing any chains on the doors, nor did he remember seeing a padlock, and as far as he could remember, he had no difficulty opening them.

We obviously got out straight away, I dont recollect how hard or easy it was to get out. There was a big blue skip with castor wheels and there would have been a degree of difficulty in it, but I cant remember exactly how much, he said.

Michael OHiggins SC, representing a number of the families of those who lost their lives, put it to Mr English that evidence given by the Stardust management accepted that there were locks and chains on all the doors that night.

He said that the staff agreed that there were locks and chains on the doors, in particular exit five, as did many of the patrons.

Mr OHiggins said that Harriet Reilly had given evidence that she saw a bouncer trying to open exit five by pulling the bar and kicking it, and there was a crush of people behind her.

He said that David Carroll, who had worked in the Stardust previously, had given evidence that there were always locks and chains attached to the doors.

Mr OHiggins said that Mr Carroll had given evidence that he ran to exit five, grabbed the bars and pulled up and down and there was no movement, and he also said he saw a chain and padlock on the door.

Mr English replied that this was not his recollection, nor did he recall people kicking the door.

Mr OHiggins also put to him the account of Derek Brown, who gave evidence that exit five was chained, and several people were kicking it, and the statement of Patricia OHare, who said she saw a bouncer pulling the bars and opening the doors out.

I dont remember any of that, said Mr English.

The inquest continues on Thursday in the Pillar Room of the Rotunda Hospital.
By Claudia Savage, PA

The National Archives (NAI) in Dublin have been damaged after a leak was detected on the top floor of the building.

The leak was first flagged at the archives on Bishop Street on Wednesday morning.

Minister for Culture Catherine Martin visited the site to assess the damage and said the National Archives were an extremely valuable state resource.

I would like to commend the staff at the NAI for their speedy management of the situation, she said.

The leak was detected at 7.20am and their emergency control plans were immediately activated.

Their own staff, their facilities management company, the Office of Public Works as well as electricians, plumbers and ICT specialists were on site since early this morning to ensure the situation was brought under control in a timely fashion.

She added: The National Archives is an extremely valuable State resource; and its collections are of great value to those researching the political, social and economic development of Ireland from the 18th century to the present day, as well as being of great use for family and local history research.

The department is committed to ensuring they are supported in any way to ensure their collections are secure for future generations.

Orlaith McBride, director at the National Archives, said staff and conservation teams have been on-site all day assessing the extent of the damage.

The special archival storage boxes and folders used by the National Archives are designed to withstand a high degree of water ingress; any damaged boxes from the affected areas have been removed to secure storage and are undergoing further examination.

We can confirm that Census 1926 records have not been affected.

Most of our records have already been moved off-site and are stored in secure storage elsewhere in anticipation of a major redevelopment project which is due to commence shortly.

The National Archives building will remain closed to the public until Tuesday October 31st to allow essential works to be completed.
By Claudia Savage, PA

Irish citizens have been advised to leave Lebanon by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening the department also advised against travel to Lebanon, citing a highly volatile situation.

Owing to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), the situation in Lebanon remains highly volatile, the statement read.

In light of the unpredictability of the situation, events could escalate with very little warning. This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon.

Citizens should be aware that, in the event that the political or security situation deteriorates, we are likely to be very limited in the assistance that we can provide.

Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable.

Lebanon Travel Advice Update



We have reviewed and revised our Travel Advice for Lebanon 



Irish citizens are strongly advised to leave now while commercial options remain available.https://t.co/Zr2Ma2YF0X@dfatravelwise @IRLEmbCairo  Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) October 25, 2023

On Wednesday, the leader of Lebanons Hezbollah group held talks with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures.

The war between Israel and Hamas, now in its third week, has killed 1,400 people in Israel and more than 5,700 Palestinians in Gaza.

In that time, Hezbollah members have been exchanging fire with Israeli troops across the Lebanon-Israel border.

The DFA warned Irish people in the region to exercise extreme caution and to put contingency plans in place to leave Lebanon as soon as possible.

As there is no Irish Embassy in Beirut, Irish citizens in Lebanon who have not already done so are advised to register with the Embassy of Ireland in Cairo.

The DFA said that the security situation in Lebanon remains unstable and could deteriorate without warning, due to the events in Israel and the oPt, as well as economic and political crises, there is an increased risk of protests and demonstrations, which can quickly lead to violence.

The Lebanese Lira has lost 90 per cent of its real value and restrictions have been placed on financial transactions and ATM withdrawals.

Lebanon is also experiencing electricity and fuel shortages, leading to power outages. Pharmacies and hospitals report shortages of medicines and medical equipment.
IT was sad to hear recently that the oldest bicycle shop in Cork is going to close next month.

Kilgrews, in various forms and locations, has been part of our city life since at least the 1930s. How many can remember buying their very first bike there, as your parents and indeed grandparents may have done before you?

For that matter, the very pram in which you were wheeled down Pana in babyhood probably came from Kilgrews too, as they carried a wide range of goods back in the day. Most commercial enterprises did, knowing that if they wanted to succeed, they had to attract customers from across the spectrum.

Today, you will find their shop on Kyle Street, run by Barry Kilgrew, the third generation of his family in the business. He has been there since 1984.

Before that, his father ran the well-known establishment on North Main Street from the mid-1950s to about 1988, where you could go to buy a wide range of toys and other items as well as bikes.

And before that you had the great shop front spreading over several floors on Merchants Quay, which prospered from around the 1930s to the 70s when that quay was changed beyond recognition by something the city fathers called redevelopment and improvement.

That was the Eden coveted by every child coming into the city, a place where the most wonderful toys could be seen, as well as the boringly practical household items which parents unaccountably seemed to prefer.

And dont many Corkonians remember the delights of that toy shop? Along with Days, The Lee Stores and Woolams, this was where you went to stare round-eyed at the wonderful window displays being set up from November onwards, and dream of what you might find in your stocking on Christmas morning.

Children meet Santa Claus at the Kilgrew's, Merchant's Quay 10/12/1949.

Later, Kilgrews on Merchants Quay brought in Santa Claus at the festive season and children could taste the delights of going down a long slide to Santas cave. Do any of you remember experiencing that? What were the gifts that you received from the jolly man like? Or do you only remember the slide?

Kilgrews was such a big part of a childs concept of life back then, its hard to believe it is going from its place on the quay, to be replaced by red brick anonymity.

Now  to genealogy and family history. Over the past couple of weeks, we have been featuring Joan McCarthys search for a much-valued picture of her late father, and other readers (notably Jack Lyons) have been giving a lot of their time to try and help her to locate it. So far no results, but now Tim Cagney has written to tell us of his own search for family information, this time on his maternal grandfather in Cork.

His name was Cornelius (Con) McAuliffe, and he died on March 16, 1949. My mother always told me he died when I was six months old, but never mentioned anything about the circumstances (such were the times, I suppose).

I have reason to believe, however, that he died in a car accident.

Con McAuliffe, register of death

About 20 years ago I seem to remember an aunt of mine telling me he died as a result of a steering-wheel penetrating his chest. Another aunt also mentioned a road-traffic fatality. Both women have since passed, so I cant check their stories.

I did manage to locate a record of his death on civilrecords.irishgenealogy.ie and this seems to indicate he died at Hume Street hospital in Dublin. The home address (90, Rathmore Place, Cork) is accurate though.

He was a commercial traveller, explains Tim, who understands that his grandfather was well known round and about his native Cork.

Im wondering if any form of obituary might have been written in a local newspaper? So far I havent been able to find anything, but I thought I would put it out here, and see if anyone remembers his name, or can lend a hand with finding any local write-up of his demise?

And I would really like to establish for once and for all whether he died in the car accident or in a Dublin hospital. Somebody - somewhere - may know. Id like to get closure on the matter - even after 74 years.

Now, I know some of you who are regular readers of Throwback Thursday are experienced researchers and have shown over the years that you can dig out information on the most difficult topics.

Can someone give Tim a bit of help here?

And now to matters traditional, and customary, steeped in legend and celebrated on a special night now fast approaching. Were talking here of Halloween of course, or, as it is properly known in Ireland, Samhain.

October 31 is the Celtic New Years Eve, followed on what is now November 1 in the Roman calendar, by New Years Day (go ahead, call it All Saints if you want, its the self-same festival observed on this island for millennia before the new religion came over from Italy. They couldnt eradicate the beliefs so they did the practical thing and absorbed them into a new version that reflected the teaching of Rome.)

How did you celebrate Halloween back in the 40s, 50s and 60s?

Did you bob for apples in a tub of water, getting soaked in the process, or did you display your agility (and a good set of teeth) by snatching a bite from the snapapple suspended by a string from the rafters? How about peeling an apple in one long strip, to see what initial it made? Placing chestnuts or hazel nuts along the fire grate to see which way they leapt as they heated up? Or, more dangerously, combing your hair in front of a mirror in a dark room lit only by a candle, to see if someone or something appeared behind you?

Barmbrack a traditional Irish teacake made for Halloween

The barmbrack has featured in everyones childhood surely, with the excitement growing to fever pitch as the slices were cut and everyone tried to peek to see if they could see the ring showing a gleam of gold. Back in the day, every self-respecting barmbrack had a ring, a pea, a bean, a stick and a rag. The ring meant you would be married within the year, the pea betokened poverty but the bean riches. The stick meant you would beat (or be beaten by?) your life partner, and the rag signified that your fate was that of old maid or bachelor.

Great fun in everyones childhood and fairly safe fortune-telling. But long ago it was quite a serious event, since everyone needed to know what the future held.

Similarly, the popular custom today of trick or treating  going from house to house dressed up as ghosts or goblins, and threatening harm if sweets are not handed out. That used to be a protection against evil spirits in olden times, since Halloween is the time of year when the veil between ours and the Otherworld is at its thinnest, and you wouldnt know who might come calling at your door.

If evil spirits did come by, the reasoning went, they would see these little imitation ghosts and goblins and pass by, thinking the house in question was already being dealt with. See? A very practical safeguard.

We would like to know your memories of Halloween in childhood days. Do tell us!

One custom of Samhain was the telling of ghost stories, and perhaps readers might oblige by sending us their own experiences. Tim Cagney has already obliged with a curious happening in his own life.

My wife, Sandra, grew up in Killorglin, Co. Kerry. She had a childhood friend, John, whose parents were local but were then living in London. They came home frequently, so that Sandra and John developed a close bond, regarding each other as cousins, said Tim.

When Sandra moved to Dublin in 1974, she kept in touch with John and he was even a guest at our wedding in 1977, staying with us several times thereafter and continuing the contact through letters, Christmas cards, telephone and, later, email.

As years rolled on, however, we began to see less and less of John. He never married, and Sandra imagined he was living a somewhat reclusive lifestyle. The last time she spoke with him (by phone) was 2016.

Then one night, in June of the same year, Sandra had a dream. In it, a first cousin of hers  Paul  appeared. Paul had died in America in 2015, from leukaemia. In the dream, he told Sandra he feared he had missed a funeral. He couldnt say who the deceased was, whereupon Sandra  somewhat logically, perhaps  suggested that he, more than anybody, should know such things, seeing that he was on the other side. His reply was strange. He said: Its different over here  we have difficulty separating substance from matter. With that, the dream ended.

When we woke the following day, she related the dream to me. We both wondered what it might mean, but  of course  remained mystified. However, around 10am, our doorbell rang. Two Gardai stood outside, one male, the other female. The latter said they were looking for my wife. The first thing I thought of naturally was our daughter, who lived in Louth. My heart nearly stopped and I immediately asked, Has someone died? The Garda replied, a cousin, in London. How I stopped myself from blurting-out Thank God, Ill never know.

Just then, Sandra came down , and they told us John had been found dead, in his home, just the previous day (the cause of death was later determined to be a heart attack.) The Gardai were able to trace us through old correspondence found by the local police among his personal effects. Now we knew whose funeral Paul had missed.

When the Gardai left, Sandra observed, Wasnt it a good thing I told you about that dream?  if I hadnt, and only told you now, you might well have imagined I was making it up!

We travelled to London, to arrange for Johns burial, and later brought the ashes to Killorglin. We located the grave of Johns parents and placed some of the ashes there. We then travelled to Ballykissane, a childhood haunt, where Sandra scattered the remainder on the waters where she and John had once fished. We both watched as they were carried seaward on the outgoing tide.

Now, asks Tim, what could that have been but a message from beyond the grave? A relative giving warning of the news soon to arrive regarding the passing of a beloved close friend? How else can such a dream be explained?

There are so many unusual and inexplicable tales out there, and we are sure you know a few. Send them to us now, so we can all share them round our respective firesides this Halloween, and perhaps raise a glass to those who have gone before us? Tell us your memories.

Email jokerrigan1@gmail.com. Or leave a comment on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/echolivecork.
TERRIFYING, is how professional dancer Tara Brandel describes the debilitating condition she experienced for 14 months, following her third Covid vaccine.

Tara, who will perform her new dance piece at the Uillinn Dance Season in Skibbereen on October 27/28, was always very fit.

The day before it all started, I had gone for a five mile hike up a mountain and had gone to a pole dancing fitness class. I was really healthy.

But just five minutes after receiving her vaccine, Tara, who never actually contracted covid, experienced her heart racing and her blood pressure going crazy.

Unseen by Croi Glan. Picture: Luca Truffarelli

Then things calmed down. But the next day, it started again. I became more and more exhausted and couldnt do anything. The racing heart would happen on and off all day.

Eventually, I went to an incredible neurologist (Dr Oliver de Buyl) at Bantry Hospital who diagnosed me with Pops (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Basically, with this condition, when you stand up, your heart races and you get weird sensations under your skin.

It took me about ten months before I saw the neurologist. He gave me medication which really helped.

Tara was so unwell that she couldnt even walk. What really cured her was a result of working with a lady called Suzy Bolt.

Suzy, who had long Covid, is a yoga expert and uses a gentle form of exercise and breath work to help unwell people. It worked for Tara, who says that she is lucky to be a hopeful kind of person.

Unseen by Croi Glan. Picture: Tomasz Madajczak

I always knew Id come out the other side. I realised I had to be very patient. I really trusted my body to find a way through.

Im now back dancing and doing pole fitness and working. For a lot of last year, I couldnt walk.

Ive been building myself back up and have my fitness back.

In her mid-fifties, Tara hopes to continue dancing for as long as she can.

Martha Graham, who invented modern dance, danced into her sixties, she said.

Artistic director of Croi Glan Integrated Dance, which works with dancers both with and without disability, Taras new dance show, entitled Unseen, is a multidisciplinary performance. She has developed it with her visual artist American wife, Stacey White, who has created abstract paintings for Unseen. Stacey drew from plankton for her inspiration. Over 50% of the worlds oxygen is produced by plankton, a microscopic organism undetectable to the naked eye.

Since 2019, Stacey has gathered water from multiple global locations to develop microscopic images of plankton. This included working at Lough Hyne Marine Reserve in West Cork with scientists from West Cork.

Unseen by Croi Glan. Picture: Luca Truffarelli

If I had to describe the piece in one sentence, Id say its about plankton, hidden disability and the enduring nature of love, says Tara.

Stacey and I got married in August, 2021. Four months after that, I became really ill. Stacey had to become my carer. We had gone from making Unseen long distance because of lockdown to Stacey coming over here from California, looking after me.

Taras hidden disability is dyslexia.

It used to affect me a lot. I very recently got a smartphone which I can dictate into. It has changed everything for me.

Stacey suffers from epilepsy.

Tara says that plankton is vital for our existence.

I was thinking about how benevolent and important it is. It was the middle of the pandemic. We were all worried about breathing in each others air. I thought it would be amazing to make a piece about important but hidden things. In a spoonful of sea water, there will be hundreds of thousands of plankton in it. The phytoplankton, which is a tiny plant, creates oxygen through photosynthesis. I started thinking about invisible forces and hidden disabilities. I asked Stacey if she would come on board.

We started talking about what its like to have a hidden disability and how it shapes your life.

We researched how we could mix the visual with dance. Then we had this massive lockdown. Stacey was back in the States and couldnt get back here. For about seven months, we worked online via zoom. She would paint and I would watch. I would dance and shed watch me. Wed go back and forward, developing a way of working together.

The piece is multidisciplinary and includes video by Luca Truffarelli, who Tara praises, saying his work is absolutely gorgeous.

He came down to West Cork in the summer and did a lot of videoing and filming of me and of coastal areas.

Theres me dancing in the water and under the water.

"The multimedia work includes 300 of Staceys abstract paintings of plankton. There will also be voice recordings of snippets of conversations from us describing things around disability.

Tara says that the plankton has become a kind of metaphor for something thats invisible but so vital.

Uillinn Dance Season at the West Cork Arts Centre is on from October 27-November 5.

www.westcorkartscentre.com
As you may already know, I have a lot of fun on Twitter and in these posts bringing forth the shenanigans of Republican candidates while also educating Michigans voters. I know that sometimes it may come off as silly or unserious. But today, I must be serious about what is happening regarding Roe v Wade.

But this is not the time for pith, this it not the time for levity. Alito wrote that this would return the issue of abortion to the peoples representatives. And it is time that we stop laughing about them because they are the ones making decisions about our health care.

Over the last two years, I have shown a glimpse of the kind of representatives that the Republican party has put forth, and made to win through dark money contributions, gerrymandered state legislative districts, and conspiracy-fueled cultism to Donald Trump.

Consistently, these representatives have not represented the will of the people. If they did, how could Michigan consistently vote for Democrats in presidential elections, yet elect a Republican State Senate for the last 38 years?

The minute that this opinion is formally entered and Roe v. Wade is no longer law, abortion will be illegal in Michigan. We have a law from the Great Depression era to thank for that.

And it wont stop there. Alito specifically calls out same-sex marriage and sodomy laws in his opinion, claiming that they, too, are not deeply rooted in history.

The leaked majority opinion claims that safe haven laws somehow make it worry-free to have to carry a baby to term. They dont. They claim that leave for pregnancy and childbirth is guaranteed in many cases. But not all.

This is no longer an academic debate. This is not a negotiation about how many weeks. It is not a thought exercise about a rapists unborn child or the value of a mothers life if it is in danger, while carrying a child.

The rub here is that the other side never considered it a debate. They never considered it a thought exercise. They worked methodically and mercilessly to unethically, unjustly pack the Supreme Court over the last six years to get us to this point.

Too many of the people who probably consider themselves to be allies have said that it would never come to this. They would not listen and today they will be full of excuses. And its too late for that.

We told you that this would happen. We said it in no uncertain terms and we were told that we were being overly dramatic. We were told that this was settled law. And make no mistake, as we have said many times before: This will not end abortions. It will end safe abortions.

I often get asked about voter turnout and its impacts on our way of life. We are seeing that right now. The people that are aghast right now should have gotten out and voted every election for the last ten years. They should have voted like their rights depended on it.

The Republicans in Congress have inexorably marched us to this point systematically over the last decade and they accomplished their goal. So what is next for them?

Is it codifying discrimination against our LGBTQ+ community? Is it eliminating marriage equality? Prohibiting adequate access to contraception? Limiting womens travel between states to have access to abortions in states that still allow it? Because thats where this opinion suggests they will be going next.

Perhaps they will fundamentally change how Americans enjoy their right to privacy. This decision drives a pretty big truck through established case law and precedent on that issue.

So what can be done? Thats the next, inevitable, question, because we cannot change where we are, only where we go.

First of all, WE MUST VOTE LIKE OUR LIVES AND RIGHTS DEPEND ON IT.

We must turn out to the ballot box, we must support pro-choice and pro-LGBTQIA+ candidates and we must do it immediately. There is already a ballot initiative on the way that we must support.

We must find a way around our legislature that has turned a blind eye, knowing that this decision was coming and refusing to update our law. We must hold those representatives accountable for their inaction and demand that they solve this problem now.

We must donate to candidates who support our issues. I suggest Dana Nessel and Gretchen Whitmer to start. Because they will be crucial in the years ahead. We must check our voter registration and make sure it is up to date. Michigan voters can do that here.

You must sign up for your local clerks permanent absent voter ballot application list. Ingham County voters can do so on my website.

You must request your absent voter ballots for August and November as soon as you are sent the applications and you must VOTE in every election.

There is no small amount of irony that this coming weekend is Mothers Day. But this year, the Republicans are giving the mothers of this country the gift of no longer having autonomy over their body and taking away their ability to determine their own future.

The other side is counting on us to go quietly. They are counting on us to sit back and let this happen to our county. They are counting on us to accept that their political dogma is more important than our rights.

Mark my words: The women of this country will not go quietly. We will not let you strip us of our rights. We won this right once before and we will do it again. I am Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum. I am ready for battle, are you?

[CC image credit: TitiNicola | Wikimedia Commons]
Michigan and the rest of the nation are about to get a detailed, fact-based look into the role former President Trump, several members of Congress, state politicians and others played in ongoing attacks on our elections.

Starting on June 9 in prime time, the bipartisan congressional committee charged with investigating the attack on the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, will hold public hearings into these egregious attempts to sabotage the will of the voters.

To be clear, the insurrection did not just occur on January 6, but started in earnest on Election Night 2020, when the former president claimed fraud and tried to stop precinct workers from counting legally submitted ballots in places like Atlanta, Las Vegas and Detroit. What followed in the ensuing months was a concerted, criminal conspiracy to overturn the 2020 election. The truth is in the memos, texts and PowerPoint presentations that the committee is expected to show.

In addition to the storming of the Capitol building, Trump and his cronies claimed fraud with zero evidence, filed spurious and dubiously grounded legal challenges (all of which lost), and concocted a scheme to nominate a fake slate of electors with the hope that Vice President Mike Pence would break the law and precedent in an attempt to steal the election.

Our elections must be run fairly and without undue influence. No matter who you choose to vote for on Election Day, the process must be above reproach. Working to overturn the result of the election simply because you did not win, as Trump and his allies did, threatens the underpinnings of our democratic way of life.

Their scheme was not without victims, either. The violence they unleashed on Jan. 6, 2021, injured 140 police officers, and several of those brave men and women died. In addition, in the weeks that followed, our elections officials were harassed to the point where many have chosen to retire or resign to pull themselves out of the line of fire. The architects of the actions on Jan.6 and since must be held accountable, and these hearings will do just that.

Even more concerning: These efforts to attack our elections and overturn the will of the voters have not stopped. Politico uncovered a scheme to plant operatives as precinct workers around Michigan in an attempt to challenge and disenfranchise voters. And candidates up and down the ballot, including all five of Michigans GOP candidates for governor and the Republican candidates for Secretary of State and Attorney General continue to falsely claim that the 2020 election was stolen, with some going as far as to suggest we decertify an election that happened two years ago. One candidate for governor, Ryan Kelley, was literally on the steps of the U.S. Capitol urging the insurrectionists on.

Americans need to send a strong message that our elections are sacred, that every vote will be counted, and that Michiganders will not tolerate attempts to subvert our democracy for political gain. I hope that Michiganders tune in to the hearings to hear the full truth, starting June 9.

[Creative Commons image credit: Brett Davis | Flickr]
In 2018, multiple prominent Michigan Republican legislators flew to Hawaii on at least two separate occasions, paid for by the California-based Institute for Research on Presidential Elections. As reported by Bridge Magazine, the trips, which also included trips to Puerto Rico and elsewhere, were part of an effort to change the way our presidents are elected:

More than 20 Michigan Republican lawmakers traveled to Hawaii, Puerto Rico and other vacation spots in the past two years where, on one day, they attended a seminar sponsored by a California group pushing to change how Michigan awards its electoral votes for president. In September, weeks after several flew to Hawaii, GOP lawmakers introduced bills supporting the effort to decide U.S. presidential contests by a national popular vote. At least one primary bill sponsor, Rep. Tim Kelly, a Republican from Saginaw, attended the seminar in Hawaii, at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. Rep. Lee Chatfield, a high-ranking House Republican from Levering, also attended that seminar. Meanwhile, the top Senate Republican, Majority Leader Arlan Meekhof, participated in a 2017 trip to Puerto Rico.

Triston Cole, a Republican House member from the Traverse City area, currently running for state Senate, was among those who enjoyed the free trip. Because the trip was labeled as educational rather than as a lobbying effort, very little is known about what happened at the seminars. According to Bridge Magazine, while the institute itself doesnt lobby, a sister nonprofit, the National Popular Vote, is registered to lobby in Michigan.

As Bridge Magazine points out, the educational effort seemed to have its intended effect of swaying Republicans to get behind changes that have largely been supported primarily by Democrats over the years:

When a Senate bill to have Michigan join the national popular vote compact was introduced back in 2015, only five Democratic senators and zero Republicans signed on as sponsors. In 2018, 11 Republican senators and 10 Democratic senators signed on as sponsors.

A non-profit accountability group calling itself Liberty Group, Inc. is now sponsoring a sweepstakes to send the winner on a trip to Hawaii of their own and to travel like Triston!. From their press release:

Residents of Northern Michigan have the chance to live the lavish lifestyle of local politician Triston Cole, with a sweepstakes that will send the winner on a vacation for two to Hawaii similar to one special interests bought for Cole while he served in the State House. The Travel Like Triston sweepstakes is free to enter for all Michigan residents and will run from Friday, July 21 to Friday, August 12. Residents can visit www.travelliketriston.com to enter. Cole, currently running for election to the Michigan State Senate to represent the new District 37 (Mackinac, Chippewa, Cheboygan, Emmet, Charlevoix, Antrim, Leelanau, and Grand Traverse counties), took a lavish, special-interest-funded trip to Hawaii in 2018 while serving in the State House. A special interest group paid the way for Cole and fellow Michigan Republicans to attend a seminar with lobbyists in Hawaii at a luxury resort. The special interest group, California-based Institute for Research on Presidential Elections, works with lobbyists trying to change Michigan law so that the states Electoral College votes are awarded to the winner of the national popular vote  not the winner of the states popular vote. And just weeks after Triston Cole met with these lobbyists on his Hawaiian vacation, he co-sponsored a bill to this effect. Many political observers note that such changes are likely to advantage Democrats in presidential elections. The Travel Like Triston sweepstakes winner will be chosen on August 19, 2022, with the winner receiving travel and lodging for two at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort in Waimea, Hawaii, the hotel used by the special interest group who funded Coles trip.

The effort is clearly designed to draw attention to Coles participation in this trip and expose his self-dealing in the lead up to the November election.

And its hilarious.
European agriculture ministers urge pharma companies to develop bluetongue vaccine



Agriculture ministers from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium have jointly called on pharmaceutical companies to expedite the development of a new vaccine as they grapple with an ongoing outbreak of bluetongue disease, Euractiv reported.

The ministers expressed concerns about the potential impact of the disease on sheep and cattle exports and urged swift action.

The outbreak, which has been detected in over 2,600 cases in the Netherlands since early September, poses a significant threat to livestock in the region. The disease is transmitted by midges and primarily affects sheep and cattle, but other animals like goats, llamas, and alpacas can also be affected.

Since the outbreak, individual cases have been reported in bordering regions of Germany and Belgium, raising concerns about the potential spread of the disease. The acting Dutch minister, Piet Adema, described the situation as having "tragic implications for animals and farmers" and highlighted the likely impact of sanitary restrictions on the country's livestock exports.

While vaccines exist for certain types of bluetongue, the current outbreak involves serotype 3, for which there is no available vaccine. The ministers have called on the pharmaceutical industry to actively engage in research, development, and production of vaccines for this specific bluetongue variant.

Acting Minister Adema expressed his intention to meet with pharmaceutical companies to advocate for vaccine development. He also hoped that the high and growing demand for such a vaccine would expedite the process.

As the risk of bluetongue transmission through insects decreases during the winter months, the ministers aim to have a vaccine ready by the spring when temperatures rise. However, they did not specify concrete incentives or funding measures to encourage vaccine development, relying instead on market demand to drive progress.

Germany's Agriculture Minister, Cem Ozdemir, suggested the possibility of a European research initiative to tackle the issue. While the source of funding was not specified, various European programmes, including Horizon Europe and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFR), offer opportunities for research funding.

Bluetongue disease is not transmittable to humans but can have a significant impact on livestock herds, causing economic ramifications for producers by affecting their ability to sell and export animals and related products.

Affected regions, including the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, have lost their "disease-free status," which now requires animals to be vaccinated before export. To support affected producers, Belgian Minister David Clarinval called for flexibility from the EU Commission and member states to enable continued exports under safe conditions.

Furthermore, the ministers highlighted the impact of climate change on the outbreak, with warmer temperatures contributing to increased midge populations. They emphasised the need to combat the climate crisis to address these issues effectively.

- Euractiv






South Africa's independent poultry, egg producers largely unaffected by avian flu, country's cabinet claims

South Africa's cabinet claimed that the majority of independent poultry and egg producers in the country have not been affected by avian flu as several South African farmers work around the clock to curb the outbreak.

This is according to the Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who said the cabinet was updated on containment measures to limit the spread and impact of avian influenza.

"Cabinet has noted that majority of independent poultry and egg producers have not been affected by avian flu," said the minister during a media briefing on October 19.

Still, the outbreak, according to Ntshavheni, has "severely" affected the economy and the poultry sector.

"The Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Thoko Didiza, has met with retailers and the South African Poultry Association to discuss possible solutions in the short and the medium term to increase egg and chicken supply," the minister added.

The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said there are currently two different strains that are causing avian influenza outbreaks in South Africa; these are influenza A(H5N1) and influenza A (H7N6).

The NICD added that H7N6 has been reported since June 2023, with 50 outbreaks to date recorded in poultry farms in the Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West and KwaZulu-Natal and non-poultry birds in Gauteng.



- South African Government News Agency




Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia gains approval to export insect-based feed ingredients to European markets



Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia Sdn Bhd announced on October 13 that it has received TRACES approval for its Entomeal and Entolipid insect-based ingredients from the Ministry of Agriculture in Malaysia, enabling Veolia to export these ingredients to aquaculture and livestock nutrition manufacturers in European markets, Pet Food Processing reported.

Entomeal, one of Veolia's key products, is an insect meal ingredient, while Entolipid is an insect-derived oil. Both products are produced in strict adherence to European Union industrial standards and comply with EU regulations for animal feed, as confirmed by Veolia.

The TRACES approval provides official recognition of these ingredients' traceability and food safety throughout the entire manufacturing process.

Fabrice Latchoumanin, general manager at Veolia Bioconversion Malaysia, highlighted the growing demand for sustainable and functional ingredients in the livestock feed and aqua feed industries. Insect-based feed offers several advantages for these applications, such as high digestibility and a nutritious feed source. Veolia aims to provide a sustainable alternative protein source to the European market, catering to the industry's evolving needs.

Entomeal and Entolipid are derived from black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) through a bioconversion process. This method ensures that all by-products are repurposed for use in agriculture, the generation of green energy, and animal nutrition. The sustainable process enhances the value of organic waste, contributes to decarbonisation efforts, and conserves water, energy, and land resources compared to traditional protein production for animal nutrition.

Veolia underlines that it operates one of the largest industrial insect processing facilities in Asia. This facility holds certifications for ISO 22000, GMP, and HAACP and has the capacity to produce approximately 3,000 tonnes of insect-based ingredients and fertilisers annually.

- Pet Food Processing
A view of fiords as they melt due to climate change near Svalbard Islands, in the Arctic Ocean in Norway on July 19, 2022.Photo:VCG

With the Biden administration revealing a new Arctic strategy, tension between the US-led NATO and Russia is building in the Arctic region as the US takes advantage of Russia's conflict with Ukraine to seize this geostrategic high ground and militarize and privatize the region with its allies, Chinese analysts said.Biden's new strategy, citing the increasing strategic competition in the Arctic with China and Russia, actually aims to ensure the US' dominance and control in the region, analysts noted, stressing that the pressing task for the international community is to uphold the international system with the UN at its core and establish rules of conduct in the Arctic region, which will be the most powerful tool to deter the US from seeking hegemony there.The US' new strategy for the Arctic region, an update of its 2013 predecessor, accounts for increasing strategic competition in the Arctic and seeks to position the US to both effectively compete and manage tensions, according to a statement by the White House on Friday, which mentioned both China and Russia.The strategy said that the US will "deter threats" to the US homeland and allies by enhancing the required capabilities, while coordinating shared approaches to security with allies and partners.The US' new Arctic strategy was released less than two months after the Biden administration announced plans to name an ambassador-at-large for the Arctic.There is a direct correlation between the US' national strategy for the Arctic Region and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, said Cui Hongjian, director of the Department of European Studies at the China Institute of International Studies. Cui noted that tension between the US and Russia, and between NATO and Russia, is building in the Arctic Region.After Finland and Sweden joined NATO, tension in the Baltic Sea will be escalated and will then extend to the Arctic region, Cui told the Global Times.NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg warned in August about Russia's military buildup in the Arctic and China's increasing interest in the Far North, hyping the threats posed by the two countries, media reports said.Yang Xiyu, senior research fellow at the China Institute of International Studies, told the Global Times on Saturday that the US has been trying to expand its interests and taking control of the Arctic, while Russia was busy with its conflict with Ukraine.The US has been politicizing China's and Russia's activities in the Arctic and using the "increased competition" as an excuse in trying to control the region after seeing its increasingly prominent economic and military value, analysts said.China, as a "Near-Arctic State," has vowed to participate in Arctic affairs in accordance with the basic principles of "respect, cooperation, win-win result and sustainability."China would like to build and maintain "a just, reasonable and well-organized Arctic governance system," according to a white paper on China's Arctic policy released in 2018.The melting Arctic has provided economic opportunity as well as a shortcut for the use of strategic weapons, and the US has attempted to control this shortcut to strategically suppress and even attack China and Russia, Yang said.US media has also noted Biden's strategy for countering China and Russia. The Hill reported on Friday that the US' strategy called for more military exercises to counter the two countries, and it said the US already has "more than 22,000 active-duty troops in Alaska, with a base in Denmark-ruled Greenland."The report claimed that the US has increasingly looked to the Arctic as an area "where military activity will likely grow," and the Pentagon established an Arctic Strategy and Global Resilience Office in September.Yang said that the US is likely to militarize and privatize the region in future moves with its allies in the NATO, pushing the region to a dangerous crossroad.That makes forming international rules on peacefully developing the Arctic an urgent task for the international community, analysts said, noting the rules should guarantee that the Arctic is a public region rather than the private asset of some countries, and that development and cooperation in the region should be peaceful and equal.
Visit Isle of Man's Annual Industry Day Returns this November

People working in the Island's tourism and hospitality sectors will attend a special industry day next month.

The one day conference provides an opportunity for Visit Isle of Man to update businesses within the tourism industry about the islands strategic direction for visitor and economic growth, initiatives to enhance the visitor experience, and valuable insights from speakers on relevant industry topics.

Delegates will also have the opportunity to attend workshops designed to enhance business performance.

Destination Day will take place on Monday 13th November at the Villa Marina.
Assisted Dying Bill to get second reading next week

The Assisted Dying Bill will get its second reading in the House of Keys next week.

It proposed that terminally ill, mentally competent adults should be able to request assisted dying, subject to approval from two independent doctors.

A representative opinion poll found that 87% of residents of the Isle of Man supported a change in the law on assisted dying in 2021.

Campaigner for Humanists UK, Nathan Stilwell, will today address local politicians.

The group says its in support of introducing the new legislation on the Isle of Man.
Extensive damage to ambulance following collision at Nobles Hospital



Nobles Hospital

A Manx Care ambulance was left with extensive damage to its structure following an incident on October 24.

The vehicle left the road and collided with a tree on South Drive, Nobles Hospital this week.

There were no injuries to the patient and Manx Care colleagues were attended to by ambulance crews, with what are believed to be minor injuries. The patient and crew were taken to Nobles Emergency Department.

Currently it is being assessed by the accident investigation team of the Isle of Man Constabulary.
2024 to be the final year for Triskel Promotions



Picture: Adrian McNab

Local concert promoters, Triskel Promotions has announced its final shows which will be held in 2024.

The independent Manx company was formed in 2002, but since the pandemic business terms notably with the larger UK Agencies representing artists, have changed to the detriment of the small time promoter.

It said that larger popular acts are now insisting on 100% of the artist fee 30 days prior to show day compared to earlier times where staged deposits and balance were all negotiated prior to going on stage which gave the smaller companies enough space to operate.

It is just how the business has gone. Triskel would not be able to budget for a general fee of around 50-60k on those terms, especially if the date was months, even years before happening. The added uncertainty of travel to/from the Island certainly doesnt help, said Lenny Conroy, Triskel Promotions.

The finals shows will be held on March 2, 2024 which sees unsigned Edinburgh Indie band WREST play Peel Centenary.

Followed by the finale or Last Dance which will see a Davy Knowles followed by a local house band of Lindsay and Steve Rowe on keys and bass with Steve Leach on drums take to the The Gaiety stage on April 20, 2024.
Scottish firm fined 20,000 for flouting Manx fishing rules

A Scottish firm has been fined 20,000 after its vessel was found fishing illegally in the Isle of Mans territorial waters last year.

The owner of the Star Fishing Company Limited pleaded guilty to fishing for King Scallops without a licence on 3 December 2022 at Douglas Courthouse on Tuesday (October 24).

Prosecutor Rebecca Cubbon told the court the Star of Jura entered Manx waters twice in the early hours on December 3, which was confirmed when DEFA and Marine Scotland examined the boats on-board monitoring and tracking systems.

Further investigation of the Masters daybook and electronic logbook revealed 12 bags of King Scallops had been landed in Manx waters, which was not declared.

The court heard the skipper had logged all other activity within UK waters on the same trip, which the court accepted was an attempt to disguise its illegal venture into Manx waters.

Defence advocate Jim Travers told the court his client was unaware of their Masters activities and called it a one-off rogue event.

The firm said the Master has been dismissed.

The Oban based company was ordered to pay Marine Scotland 4,474.53 in costs and DEFA 8,948.43 as compensation for the value of the catch.
With concerns around generative AI ever-present, Google has announced an expansion of its Vulnerability Rewards Program (VRP) focused on AI-specific attacks and opportunities for malice. As such, the company released updated guidelines detailing which discoveries qualify for rewards and which fall out of scope. For example, discovering training data extraction that leaks private, sensitive information falls in scope, but if it only shows public, nonsensitive data, then it wouldn't qualify for a reward. Last year, Google gave security researchers $12 million for bug discoveries.

Google explained that AI presents different security issues than their other technology  such as model manipulation and unfair bias  requiring new guidance to mirror this. "We believe expanding the VRP will incentivize research around AI safety and security, and bring potential issues to light that will ultimately make AI safer for everyone," the company said in a statement. "We're also expanding our open source security work to make information about AI supply chain security universally discoverable and verifiable."

AI companies, including Google, gathered at the White House earlier this year, committing to greater discovery and awareness of AI's vulnerabilities. The company's VRP expansion also comes ahead of a "sweeping" executive order from President Biden reportedly scheduled for Monday, October 30, which would create strict assessments and requirements for AI models before any use by government agencies.
HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and senior UAE delegation inaugurate the 230MW Garadagh Solar Park, regions largest operational solar plant - MASDAR/PR NEWSWIRE

(Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante)

- Masdar signs three investment agreements for two solar projects and one onshore wind project with combined capacity of 1GW, supporting Azerbaijan's 2030 clean energy ambitions

- Garadagh inauguration attended by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar

- HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber calls on all nations to follow Azerbaijan in setting clear energy transition plans to deliver a COP of action, a COP of solidarity, a COP for all

- Garadagh is Masdar's first renewable energy project in Azerbaijan as the company expands its footprint across Caucasus and Central Asia

BAKU, Azerbaijan, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC  Masdar, the UAE's clean energy powerhouse, has signed agreements for solar and onshore wind projects with a total capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW) in Azerbaijan, following the inauguration of the region's largest operational solar plant, the 230MW Garadagh Solar Park.

The strategic agreements cover the progression of the first phase of a 10GW pipeline of renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan signed in June 2022. This follows the successful development of Garadagh, Azerbaijan's first foreign investment-based independent solar power project, and the largest solar plant in the region.

The inauguration of Garadagh was overseen by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar.

The 1GW clean energy agreements were signed by Masdar Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, HE Parviz Shahbazov and Azerbaijan Minister of the Economy, HE Mikayil Jabbarov.

Also in attendance at the inauguration were HE Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy; HE Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment and Deputy Chairman of Masdar; HE Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; HE Mohammed Murad Al Blooshi, UAE Ambassador to Azerbaijan, and HE Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and HE Elchin Bagirov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to the UAE attended.

HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate and Chairman of Masdar, said: "Garadagh is a testament to our shared commitment to diversifying the global energy mix. Azerbaijan's ambition to develop low and zero-carbon solutions through renewable energy, is exactly what the world needs at this time.

"The UAE is proud to support Azerbaijan's clean energy goals, to generate more than 30 percent of its overall energy capacity from renewables by 2030. We need all nations of the world to set out clear energy transition plans with clear targets for renewable energy capacity. As the UAE prepares to host COP28 in November, our North Star for climate action must be to keep the ambition of limiting global temperatures to 1.5C within reach."

Speaking at the inauguration event, Dr Sultan Al Jaber also commended His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev and the nation of Azerbaijan for its commitment to a defined, strategic plan of action to develop new industries, new jobs and green economic growth.

In his speech HE Dr Sultan said:

With just 34 days to COP28 , Garadagh illustrates the practical action needed to turn the goals of the Paris Agreement into tangible reality.

, Garadagh illustrates the practical action needed to turn the goals of the Paris Agreement into tangible reality. Paris unified the world around a common goal, but since then, we have not seen enough action to close a massive emissions gap.

unified the world around a common goal, but since then, we have not seen enough action to close a massive emissions gap. While investment in renewable energy continues to grow, with a record 500GW added globally this year, the world must triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 to keep 1.5 within reach.

It is critical to bring everybody to the table to be part of the solution. This is the spirit of inclusivity needed at COP28 , bringing the world together to focus on solutions and results.

HE Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, commented: "Today is marked by the achievements of the state policy of the President of Azerbaijan, which prioritizes the development of renewable energy. The commissioning of the largest solar power plant based on the first foreign investment in our energy history, as well as the signing of investment agreements for the implementation of solar and wind energy projects with a capacity of 1000 MW, show that our country's green energy and green investment plans are successfully becoming a reality. Azerbaijan is pleased to realize its strategic goals as a green energy producing and exporting country with Masdar and these projects will play an important role in increasing the share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation capacity to 30 percent by 2030."

The Garadagh plant which represents Masdar's first project in the country, will generate half a billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power more than 110,000 homes, reducing carbon emissions by over 200,000 tonnes a year. The project is co-financed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, said: "The inauguration of Garadagh, the largest operational plant in the region, is a milestone achievement. Azerbaijan is a key strategic partner for Masdar and the signing of these additional agreements today pave the way to accelerate the scale of Azerbaijan's clean energy vision. Garadagh is the first in a number of potential projects to develop onshore wind, offshore wind, solar and green hydrogen with a total combined capacity of 10GW. This will lead to greater investment and international collaboration as we work together to help Azerbaijan achieve its ambitious climate goals."

As the UAE's clean energy powerhouse and one of the leading clean energy companies in the world, Masdar is accelerating the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges.

Established in 2006, Masdar is active in more than 40 countries with a total electricity generation capacity of more than 20GW. It has invested, or committed to invest, in worldwide projects with a combined value of more than US$30 billion with ambitious growth plans to reach 100GW and 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.

About Masdar

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is the UAE's clean energy champion and one of the largest companies of its kind in the world, advancing the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges. Established in 2006, Masdar is today active in over 40 countries, helping them to achieve their clean energy objectives and advance sustainable development. Masdar is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and under this ownership the company is targeting a renewable energy portfolio capacity of at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and an annual green hydrogen production capacity of up to 1 million tonnes by the same year.

For more information, please visit: http://www.masdar.ae and connect: facebook.com/masdar.ae and twitter.com/masdar.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258702...Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258701...Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1973446...

View original content: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/masdar-signs-1gw-clean-energy-agreement-in-azerbaijan-following-presidential-inauguration-of-garadagh-solar-park-largest-in-the-region-301968973.html
(Informacion remitida por la empresa firmante)

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Medius, a leading provider of AP Automation and wider Spend Management solutions, today announces the appointment of Emma Brown as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Brown joins Medius at a pivotal moment in the company's growth. Medius has made significant acquisitions recently, including expense management software company Expensya in July 2023 and OnPay Solutions, a Jacksonville-based invoice payments provider, in March 2022. In August, the global fintech opened a new US headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida in a move that represents a larger commitment to the Jacksonville community, as it emerges as one of US's hottest spots for fintech growth.

Based in London, Brown will be responsible for guiding Medius through its ambitious plan to double turnover by 2025 and for the long-term financial health of the company as it executes on its mission to eliminate fraud and inefficiencies through autonomous, AI-driven AP and spend management. As a leader of digital transformation throughout her career, Brown will champion product development, representing the views of core Medius customers, as CFOs seek increased productivity and financial control.

Brown holds 14 years' of experience scaling high growth global technology and people-based businesses. She joins Medius from consumer intelligence accelerator platform Talkwalker, where she acted as the Group Chief Financial and Operating Officer and retains a board position. Prior to Talkwalker, Brown worked in the tech sector in both the UK and Australia, including at MedicalDirector, Smartways Logistics and Altium. She is a chartered accountant with a background in audit and advisory gained at EY, BDO and KPMG.

Brown holds an MBA from the University of Sydney where she was awarded a scholarship from the UN Women National Committee Australia, an organization which promotes gender equality in leadership and the economic empowerment of women. Brown received the scholarship, in recognition of her commitment to positive and inclusive social change, especially in her advocacy of parental leave and diversity policies.

Emma Brown, CFO, Medius, comments:"CFOs today are facing a number of challenges, including attracting and retaining top talent, managing cashflow and risk in a volatile economy, and staying ahead of the curve on emerging technologies, including AI. I see firsthand how Medius can solve these issues and my belief in the product is an important reason for joining the business. With the company's history of sustainable growth, I'm eager to deliver on its exciting ambitions as a strategic and entrepreneurial CFO."

Jim Lucier, CEO, Medius, comments: "We're proud to welcome Emma at a crucial juncture for the business. As we continue our efforts to double our revenue over the next two years, Emma's expertise as a transformational financial leader will help make this a reality."

For more information, please contact: Francesca Cahill (EMEA) at Fight or Flight, francesca@fightorflight.com / Medius@fightorflight.com +44 330 133 0985

The following files are available for download:

View original content: https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/medius-appoints-emma-brown-to-chief-financial-officer-as-the-company-aims-to-double-revenue-by-2025-301968488.html
'Swift Sword' Top Ten Seller of All Vietnam War books with 903 Reviews on Amazon, #2 in Military Policy, #2 in Southeast Aisa History

A true Vietnam War story of epic courage and brotherhood in the face of insurmountable odds that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Dallas, TXThe PenCraft Book Awards have named SWIFT SWORD by Doyle Glass the '2023 Book of the Year Winner' in the Non-Fiction-Biography Genre.

The PenCraft Book Awards program, founded in 2016, is an annual event with the purpose to help foster the promotion of authors and books to the reading public. PenCraft recognizes books of remarkable literary quality, artistic excellence, and popularity with its readers.

September 4, 1967, marks a gruesome and terrifying day for U.S. Marine soldiers stationed in Vietnam. Based on 50 interviews with veterans, author Doyle Glass conveys what it was really like on the front lines of Operation Swift in the newest edition of his novel: Swift Sword: The True Story of the Marines of Mike 3/5 in Vietnam, 4 September 1967. This exploration of this operation comes from firsthand experiences and extensive research, culminating in a book that truly shows the impact of war as well as the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers.

View the book trailer here: https://bit.ly/SwiftSwordBookTrailer





"As someone with over a dozen combat vets in my family, I salute Doyle Glass for honoring the men whose Vietnam War stories are told in 'Swift Sword.' Riveting tales of heroism as well as a tribute to all who have sacrificed." Brad Butler, Author of 'Without Redemption' & 'A World Flight Over Russia'

Operation Swift was a military operation intended to be a rescue mission of fellow Marines under siege by North Vietnamese troops. It resulted in a ruthless battle between Mike 3/5 Marines and the NVA, leaving 127 US Marines and Navy Corpsmen as well as approximately 600 PAVN (North Vietnamese Army) troops dead. Doyle Glass details the beginning of this 11-day operation in Swift Sword by recounting what the Marines witnessed, quoting their own words. Their accounts are shocking, brutal, and most importantly, very real.

"This is probably as close as one can get to reliving the terror of up-close personal combat without actually being there. I served in Vietnam with H 2/5 in An Hoa. I found the book a truthful recounting of what intense combat is like. The confusion, fear, stress, and heroics that this book describes so well, informs me that these personal accounts come from the ingrained memory that resides inside every one of these survivors." Larry D., Vietnam Veteran

Doyle Glass writes, "From 2008 to 2011, I conducted forty-nine personal interviews of Marine veterans of Swift, spoke with friends and families of veterans, reviewed twelve after-action reports of the battle of September 4, 1967, and read numerous accounts on the battles in Vietnam's Qu? Son Valley. This included a visit to Vietnam in 2009 as well as an interview with a veteran of the NVA command." In addition to the accounts from Marine veterans, Doyle fills the book with detailed research on the operation, including maps, photos, and a glossary of military terms. For anyone interested in military history, this book provides an unparalleled look into Operation Swift.

"Another aspect of Glass's informed, historically accurate book that underscores its importance is the superb Glossary of terms used in the Vietnam War - Agent Orange, ARVN (Army of the Republic of Vietnam), I Corps, etc, definitions, events, and facts at book's end, in addition to the many photographs of the soldiers and the battle itself. But the impact of Glass's revised version of his original 2014 book now intensifies the respect for the veterans who fought and endured, some physically surviving and others now only extant in memory for the loss of their lives." Grady Harp, Amazon Top 100 Hall of Fame Reviewer

Swift Sword emphasizes the strength, courage, and sacrifice of the men that fought in Vietnam, presented in a way that honors their legacy and memorializes those who didn't make it back. In its portrayal of the horrors of war, this book is an unforgettable reminder that these are real people and what they experienced is unbelievable. For anyone who is interested in military history and combat, this book is a must-read.

Swift Sword: The True Story of the Marines of Mike 3/5 in Vietnam, 4 September 1967, ISBN: 979-8986031606, $15.99 Paperback, $8.99 Kindle, 296 Pages, Coleche Press, 2023. Available on Amazon.

For more information visit: www.doyleglass.com https://www.facebook.com/doyleglassauthor, https://www.instagram.com/doyle_glass_author/

About Doyle Glass: He is an author, historian, and sculptor dedicated to honoring those who fought for freedom. He is a master at recounting true stories of brave men and women who were outnumbered and out-gunned but continued to battle toe-to-toe with ferocious opponents in war. Doyle Glass was born in Midland, Texas among the fifth generation of a pioneer ranching family who was raised with an appreciation for hard work, adventure, and honor. After earning degrees in history and law from Southern Methodist University, he completed law school and worked as an Assistant District Attorney in Texas. Later, he served as Assistant Attorney General in Kentucky, prosecuting some of the worst violent crimes in the state.

In 2000, Glass turned to the arts as a way to tell stories of his childhood heroes. He conceived and sculpted a bronze statue of John Squires, who braved enemy fire to save others during WWII and received the Medal of Honor. The statue stands in downtown Louisville, Kentucky as a reminder of the sacrifices made by local citizens who fought and died for freedom. In 2008, Glass designed and sculpted the Texas Medal of Honor Memorial, dedicated to George O'Brien who earned the Medal of Honor during the Korean War. The memorial stands at the International Artillery Museum in Saint Jo, Texas as a symbol recognizing those who earned America's highest award for combat valor. Besides writing and sculpting, Glass' greatest pride is being a loving husband and father to his wife and three children where they reside in Dallas, Texas.

Media Contact: For a review copy of Swift Sword or to arrange an interview with Doyle Glass, contact Scott Lorenz of Westwind Communications Book Marketing at scottlorenz@westwindcos.com or by phone at 734-667-2090. Reach Lorenz on Twitter @abookpublicist
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Cloudy. High around 50F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies during the evening will give way to cloudy skies overnight. Low 41F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Don "K" Kaltschmidt addresses the crowd at the GOP annual winter kickoff in January (Arren Kimbel-Sannit/The Daily Montanan)

The Montana Republican Party and the Republican National Committee have asked to intervene in a federal lawsuit filed earlier this month that seeks to block a law passed by the Republican-led legislature this year surrounding additional voting requirements.

The two groups say their interests in electing Republicans to state and federal offices could be negatively affected if a judge sides with the Montana Public Interest Research Group and the Montana Federation of Public Employees and blocks changes to the law implemented this year under House Bill 892.

Montana Republican Party Chairman Don Kaltschmidt in a statement called the plaintiffs in the lawsuit  MontPIRG and MFPE  left-wing groups and claimed they are trying to make elections in Montana less secure.

The partys current platform seeks to implement mechanical or manual vote counts in Montana as part of their effort to put the responsibility of election integrity and accountability back into the hands of We the People.

Basic election safeguards drive up voter confidence, Kaltschmidt said in a statement. Were proud to join with the RNC in filing this intervention and look forward to fighting this battle in court for Montanans.

Montana law prior to the 2023 session stated that no person may vote more than once at an election. The Republican supermajority passed, and Gov. Greg Gianforte signed, Missoula Republican Rep. Lyn Hellegaards bill, which adds qualifications to the existing language.

A person or elector may not vote in this state more than once at any election held in this state or vote in both this state and another state or territory in the same or equivalent elections, except in a special district election in which a person or elector is entitled to vote, the new language reads.

Legislators said the purpose of the bill was to clarify double voting in state law. But the two organizations that sued argued in their complaint the law goes much further, creating vague, overbroad new restrictions that implicate other facets of the franchise.

The law also includes penalties for violations of up to 18 months in prison and fines up to $5,000, which the original lawsuit says are ridiculous and could lead to jail time and large fines for people who do not follow what they say are convoluted and unnecessary additions to the voter registration process.

MontPIRG and MFPE said the law could subject its members to those penalties and hamper their efforts to get their members registered to vote.

The Montana GOP and national RNC want to intervene in the case because they say their interests do not align with MontPIRG and MFPE, nor with the named defendants in the suit, all of whom are state officials: Republican Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen, and nonpartisan Commissioner of Political Practices Chris Gallus.

In their motion to intervene, the two Republican groups attorneys argue that they too would like to influence Montanans to vote  for Republicans in next years election  and that if a judge enjoins the law passed under HB 892, it would harm those interests. They also claim that they have an interest in maintaining the integrity of the election process under the new law.

An injunction of the challenged law threatens the credibility of the election by removing key protections against voters who register in multiple jurisdictions from voting in Montanas elections, the brief in support of the motion to intervene says.

They go on to tell the court that intervening in this case could be the only time they can challenge the claims of MontPIRG and MFPE before the election, and that the defendants in the case indicated they would not object to intervention. The filing says the plaintiffs did object to the two groups intervening.

Movants believe the law is valid, that an injunction is unwarranted, and that Plaintiffs desired relief would undermine Movants interests, their members interests, and the interests of Montana voters, the brief says.

Helena attorney Dale Schowengerdt is representing the Montana GOP in its effort, while Arlington, Virginia-based law firm Consovoy McCarthy PLLC, which has represented former President Donald Trump on multiple occasions, is representing the RNC.

The efforts for the political parties to intervene in a voting access case is not uncommon, and Republicans have a keen interest in the 2024 election as the party tries to unseat Montanas lone statewide Democratic elected official, Sen. Jon Tester, and keep hold of all other statewide elected offices, a legislative supermajority, and both of the states Congressional seats.

MontPIRG and MFPE are asking a judge to find the new sections of law violate the First and Fourteenth amendments of the U.S. Constitution and do not further the interests of the state.

The imposition of severe criminal penaltieseven for neglecting to complete a section on the voter-registration applicationis not justified and not tailored, narrowly or otherwise, to the interests that purportedly underpin HB892, their attorneys wrote in their initial complaint.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Judge Kathleen DeSoto had not ruled on the motion to intervene.

The post Montana GOP, Republican National Committee seek to intervene in voter registration suit appeared first on Daily Montanan.
The following is a condensed version of "Public Enemy Number One?" by John O. McGinnis, published at Law & Liberty.

Elon Musks brilliant career was made by possible by three things: his relentless genius, Americas openness to foreign born talents, and the dynamism of capitalism. Walter Isaacsons fine new biography highlights the first factor but is less strong on the influence of the second two, even as he provides ample information that demonstrate their importance. And despite his success and immense wealth, Musk remains at risk of ultimate failurenot only because of the occasional hubris and instability of his genius, but because of the decline of American respect for the freedoms that makes robust capitalism possible.

Musks ambitions are not even primarily about making money. He sees his work with Telsa as battling climate change, Space X as leading to interplanetary travel, and his various artificial intelligence ventures as advancing a friendly AI that will not threaten humanity. As Isaacson notes, he has a cosmic self-image with a destiny to safeguard civilization.

The key to Musks business achievements has been his implacable efforts at cutting the costs of his products components. His motto is that the only constraints on such efforts are physical laws, not the traditions of industry or even the regulations of government. Step one should be to question the requirements, he says. Make them less wrong and dumb because all requirements are somewhat wrong and dumb. And then delete, delete, delete.

Musk provides a walking advertisement for the greatness of the one thousandth of the one percent. As rich as he has become, he has provided far more benefits to othersto the shareholders who have become rich with him, to the employees who take tremendous pride in their contributions and sometimes go to found their own companies based on what they have learned, and, of course, to his customers. The public benefits as well. As far as global warming is a problem, he has created the car company that most successfully reduces auto emissions.

Isaacson sees Musk as his own greatest enemya hero with innate tragic flaws, both his lack of empathy and his revelry in excessive risk. And these do remain potential problems. But Musks risk-taking has paid off, and his lack of empathy may be necessary to avoid the sentimentality that leads some leaders to indulge subordinates who slack off. In my view, by far the greatest threat to Musk is the political world. Modern America is more hostile to the rich than it once was, particularly when they are as independent and unconventional as Musk is. When Time magazine named Musk Person of the Year in 2021, Senator Elizabeth Warren responded with a caustic tweet: Lets change the tax code so the Person of the Year will actually pay taxes and stop freeloading off of everyone else. Musk, who had sold over ten billion dollars in stock, certainly got the better of the exchange: If you opened your eyes for two seconds you would realize I will more than any American in history this year. Dont spend it all at once. oh wait you did already. But power, not repartee, determines citizens fates in politics.

Musks ownership of Twitter, now renamed X, increases his political peril. The President is able simply to ignore the achievements of a car company, but not social mediait is too integral to what politicians do. And indeed, in an interview last week, Biden attacked Musks stewardship of Twitter/X, agreeing with a reporter that Musk has lowered the guardrails on misinformation. Actually, Musk has replaced unilateral decisions to police information with community notes that offer a decentralized way for users to add context to misleading information. What he refuses to do is suppress the kind of stories that the old Twitter didlike those about Hunter Biden in the middle of the presidential campaign.

More generally, Musk is now a target because the left benefits from decreasing the openness of social media since it dominates more traditional sources of information, from academia to the mainstream media. In the same interview, Biden cryptically warned about Musks possible relationships with foreign governments without providing any evidence of what he meant. The presidential megaphone can provide a particular narrative of events, cripple effective mechanisms for disseminating alternate views, and possibly even signal his preferences to zealous executive branch regulators: Will no one rid me of this turbulent businessman?

I have never been a fan of Ayn Rands novels and their simplistic portraits of heroic entrepreneurs battling politicians and bureaucrats who want to destroy them and rob us of the benefits of capitalism. But one message from Musks life is that Rands work contains a kernel of truth relevant to our age.

John O. McGinnis is the George C. Dix Professor in Constitutional Law at Northwestern University and a Contributing Editor at Law & Liberty. His book Accelerating Democracy was published by Princeton University Press in 2012. McGinnis is also the coauthor with Mike Rappaport of Originalism and the Good Constitution published by Harvard University Press in 2013 . He is a graduate of Harvard College, Balliol College, Oxford, and Harvard Law School. He has published in leading law reviews, including the Harvard, Chicago, and Stanford Law Reviews and the Yale Law Journal, and in journals of opinion, including National Affairs and National Review.
In a recent Iowa State University Extension Northwest Iowa Dairy Outlook, the report described the impact of dairy beef on cattle slaughter. This article will review the report and discuss the importance of Beef Quality Assurance. The complete report is available here: https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/nwiadairyoutlook/2023/10/03/dairy-cow-slaughter-accounts-for-40-60percent-of-overall-cow-slaughter/.

Background

According to the report, approximately one-half of U.S. cow slaughter is made up of dairy cattle. The reason? There are far fewer dairy cattle than beef cattle. In fact, on Jan. 1, USDA estimated the U.S. beef herd at 28.9 million cows and 9.4 million dairy cows. The reason there is such a large share of dairy cows compared to beef cows in the slaughter numbers is because dairy cows are replaced at a much higher rate.

Beef Quality Assurance

Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a program designed to ensure beef and dairy cattle are raised in a manner that results in a safe and wholesome food product. The development of the BQA program can be traced to consumer concerns about food quality. Based on national audits, there is clear evidence the BQA program has made a significant improvement in beef quality for the consumer.

BQA principles

Everyone, from producer to consumer, has a role to play in quality assurance. This includes all aspects of production, transportation, processing, and consumption of beef and dairy products. As a dairy producer, what principles can you follow to maintain a safe food supply? These principles are provided below.

VCPR  The herds practicing veterinarian:

 makes medical decisions that the client follows

 is personally/regularly acquainted with the patients and their care

 is available for follow-up consultations

 regularly evaluates patients medical records with clients

PREVENT CARCASS QUALITY DEFECTS

 Reduce bruises, scars and blemishes

DRUG USE

 Read the label

 Follow instructions on the label and from your veterinarian

 Proper needle selection

 Follow withdraw times

THINK LIKE A COW

 Cattle want to be with people, other cattle and move away from danger

CALM BEHAVIOR AND HANDLING

 Understand animal behavior and flight zone

 Never abuse cattle

 Provide personnel with training/experience

 Make timely observations of cattle

 Design and regularly inspect facilities

 Keep feed and water handling equipment clean

RECORD KEEPING

Producers should be prepared to provide copies of records for buyers and processors.

If a drug residue is traced to an animal you owned, your records may help you with the FDA investigation

Records should be kept for a minimum of 2 years and include: individual animal identification; date treated; name and manufacturer of the drug or vaccine used; lot and serial numbers of the products; dosage; route and location; date withdrawal period is complete

BIOSECURITY PRACTICES

 In consultation with your veterinarian, assess risks

 Recognize and mitigate the biosecurity risks associated with the introduction of new cattle and inter-herd/inter-operation traffic

 Apply basic sanitation practices to equipment, vehicles and clothing

 Prevent manure contamination of feed and feeding equipment

MAINTAIN PROPER BCS

DEVELOP EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

Consider including the following:

 Name of site

 Premise ID Number (PIN)

 Owner Name and/or Operator Name

 Farm Services (FSA) Number

 GPS coordinates

 Site physical address (911 address)

 Directions to the site from nearest town(s)

 Important telephone numbers & contact

Summary

Implementation of the BQA program and adoption of the principles discussed has made significant positive impacts on the industry. I encourage all producers to continue following these practices to ensure a safe food supply that all consumers desire.

If you have questions about BQA, consult your veterinarian or local Extension Educator.
FOSTORIA, Ohio  AgCredit, one of northern Ohios largest lenders for farmers, rural homeowners and agribusiness, recently launched its Feed the Farmer initiative.

This is the third year the company will be providing harvest meals to local farms as a way to thank farmers for the work they do year-round. Now through Oct. 31 you can nominate your own farm or another farm for a chance to win a meal delivered by AgCredit in November.

Visit AgCredit.net/feed-farmer to enter.
WEST SALEM, Ohio  The Northwestern-Wayne FFA will host Feed a Farmer on Oct. 30 at Commodity Blenders LLC., 10510 Myers Rd., West Salem, Ohio.

Northwestern FFA appreciates all of the farmers who put their time into producing food for the community, and in return would like to prepare a warm meal for them.

Lunch will be provided from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will include hamburgers, green beans, chips and cookies. There will be delivery available for any member of the community.

Anyone who is interested should contact Mrs. Wharton at 330-466-7799 or Mrs. Tegtmeier at 330-465-0329 by Oct. 27.
AUSTINTOWN, Ohio  Mahoning County Public Health will be sponsoring a rabies vaccination clinic for dogs, cats and ferrets from 5:30-7 p.m. Nov. 1, 50 Westchester Drive, Austintown, Ohio.

In Mahoning County, rabies vaccination is required for all dogs, cats, and ferrets over 3 months of age. Cost is $8 per rabies shot (cash only). Pet owners must have their pets on a leash, in a cage or carried inside a pillowcase.

This is a low-cost clinic that does not include a physical examination of the animal. The veterinary staff reserves the right not to vaccinate any animal in the event the animal appears to be in poor health.

To receive the 3-year booster, bring proof of prior rabies vaccination on or after Nov. 1, 2022. Without proof of prior vaccination, the pet will receive a 1-year vaccination only. No appointment is necessary for rabies vaccinations.
COLUMBUS  The Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Wildlife will release more than 14,000 ring-necked pheasants at public hunting areas in late October and November. Releases will begin Oct. 21 during Ohios youth small game hunting season.

Each fall, the Division of Wildlife releases male pheasants at 25 public hunting areas throughout Ohio.

The Division of Wildlife will release pheasants Oct. 21 (first youth weekend), Oct. 28 (second youth weekend), Nov. 3 (opening day), Nov. 10 and Nov. 23 (Thanksgiving Day).

Ohios ring-necked pheasant hunting season is open from Nov. 3 to Jan. 14. The daily harvest limit is two male birds; no hens may be harvested. A valid Ohio hunting license is required to pursue pheasants and other game birds.

Additional details on Ohios fall pheasant releases, including locations for releases, can be found at wildohio.gov, along with maps of public hunting areas, the current hunting and trapping regulations and more.
CHARLESTON, W.Va.  Gov. Jim Justice announced the launch of the Posey Perry Emergency Food Fund, a $10 million reserve account dedicated to combating food insecurity in West Virginia.

The emergency fund supports the states largest food banks, Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Foodbank. Together, these organizations provide meals to food pantries across all 55 counties in West Virginia. The Posey Perry Emergency Food Fund serves as a tribute to the late Posey Perry, a dedicated coal miner who volunteered tirelessly at food banks for numerous years.

Pantries associated with the Mountaineer Food Bank and Facing Hunger Foodbank network are strongly encouraged to seek funding by contacting these organizations directly.
Farming families across England are being invited to join a free programme of support, offering advice on business and environmental management.

Now in its third year, the Royal Countryside Funds Farm for the Future programme is offering support virtually and in-person across 18 regions.

It aims to help farmers with numerous topics, including the change in subsidies from BPS payments to the UK's new support system.

Over 15 hours of training and one-to-one support is available for any English farm currently in receipt of BPS.

The workshops that form the Farm for the Future programme are tailored to the local groups.

The charity, which was founded by King Charles, says the programme has achieved impressive results, with 95% of participating farms saying they have increased confidence in their ability to plan for the future.

Nearly 1,500 farming families have taken part across England since 2021.

Andrew and Laura, who run a beef farm in Staffordshire, participated in the programme in 2022, calling it 'informative and engaging'.

As a result of the programme, they now claim Countryside Stewardship and are due to sign up to claim the management fee and the animal health and welfare grant.

It has also taught them more about the importance of looking after their soils and understanding the importance of the hedgerows.

Laura said: The programme was fantastic and would absolutely recommend the programme to other farmers.

"Christina Hutchings, the coordinator of the online group, was fantastic in organising the workshops, and provided a lot of communication.

Maddy Taylor, head of operations at the Royal Countryside Fund said Farm for the Future was "a proven source of trusted advice, delivered in an approachable, relatable way".

"The Royal Countryside Fund, as a charity, is able to give this advice entirely impartially, and we aim to provide ongoing support farmers long after the programme has ended.

"Were working with an excellent network of local and regional farm support groups to deliver Farm for the Future, who have an in depth understanding of the issues facing farms in their local area.
Agri-tech experts are developing a grassland modelling solution to provide grass growth measurements with accuracy that was unattainable in previous technology.

Agribot, an artificial intelligence and climate technology firm, alongside Agri-EPI Centre, say the solution will save farmers money and bring environmental benefits.

Working with a Cumbria farm network and a dairy farm in Leicestershire, the project distinguishes itself from previous grass growth forecasting methods.

This is because it combines innovative Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), a form of radar that can easily pass-through clouds with a novel two-week probabilistic weather model.

The result is year-round reliable data on the dry matter mass cover in an identified field, according to the agri-tech firms.

Farmers will be able to use the data to make informed decisions about their own fields, enhancing farm productivity and lowering the carbon footprint of dairy herds.

Chris Knight, founder of Agribot says: This technology is now more essential than evercutting time, costs, and carbon emissions.

Our app is helping to change this by addressing the problem in three stages: using real time satellite radar data to find out whats happening now, creating a 23-day weather forecast and finally a 23-week growth forecast for grass based on our long-range weather and localised climate models.

Accurate weather and growth forecasting is an increasingly valuable resource. The Grassland Modelling project not only forecasts the impacts of accelerated climate change but works to help mitigate them through effective farm management.

Rob Morrison, head of dairy at Agri-EPI, says farmers can proactively manage resources, minimise waste, and significantly reduce costs if armed with knowledge about rainfall patterns and grass growth.

Overall, grasslands modelling provides resilience to the dairy farming sector and aligns with the UKs goal for net zero carbon emissions," he says.

"For instance, an increased utilisation of 1% of grassland could increase the annual profitability of the UK dairy and livestock sector by 22m.

"Our test farms as part of this feasibility study are already seeing the benefits of this and we will soon be engaging with the wider Agri-EPI network to increase adoption.
Local authorities must take more steps to support local farm businesses by pledging to source British food as much as possible, the NFU has urged.

Such a move would help councils work towards a more sustainable future, boost the local economy and support farmers, the union said.

It follows an initiative by Suffolk County Council to support the countys farmers by ensuring all catering at council-organised events is, wherever possible, sourced from local farmers.

The recently passed motion also pledges to include meat and dairy options, alongside plant-based produce, at events.

Other councils such as Devon and North Northamptonshire have also made similar commitments to encourage people to shop locally.

NFU President Minette Batters said it was a 'win-win' for councils to support British food wherever possible.

We have always maintained that the best and most effective way to do this is to carefully consider sourcing  where the produce has come from and the sustainability of its production  whether thats fruit and veg or meat and dairy.

Sourcing British food, and locally wherever possible, means councils can cut food miles, reduce reliance on imports and have a much greater understanding of the environmental standards to which food has been produced.

It would also provide much needed support for farmers at a time when business certainty and confidence is at an all-time low, and at the same time put value back into the local economy."

Andrew Blenkiron, NFU Suffolk county chair, said farmers in the county would be 'delighted' to have the support of Suffolk County Council.

It is good to see the vital role that farmers and growers play in the county recognised in this way."

The motion was initially proposed by deputy leader of the council, Richard Rout, who hailed the move as a vote of confidence in our farming community.

Mr Rout added: It is about showing our dairy, livestock and arable farmers across the county that Suffolk County Council has your back.

We can do more and we will do more for our farming community.
The BBC has been told to rethink its decision to drop Farm Gate from its regular morning slot on Radio Ulster, with the industry calling the move 'gutting'.

Farm Gate, which is seen as a familiar voice for Northern Irish farmers, will be axed in the new year, according to reports.

It began 30 years ago as a stand-alone programme and was later moved into a regular slot on Good Morning Ulster and Evening Extra.

The latter was also dropped in recent years and the duration of the farming news has been reduced significantly over time.

Farm Gate's duration now is approximately three to five minutes within 24 hours of broadcasting.

There is no other programme in NI that delivers information on agriculture ranging from policy to farmgate prices.

UFU president David Brown said farmers would be 'gutted and angered' over the BBC's decision to axe the show.

"Considering that the agri-food industry is responsible for producing the food we eat.., the BBC needs to seriously reevaluate what message this is sending.

Unfortunately, this is not the first time our rural communities have been left worrying about this service being removed and their confidence in the BBC is at an all time low.

"As a public broadcasting service which rural communities support through their TV licence the same as everyone else in society, the BBC has a duty to inform and educate them on matters of interest."

Mr Brown said that by axing Farm Gate, the BBC would be 'isolating' rural and farming families across the province.

We urge the BBC to treat this matter of concern with urgency and to rethink their plans to cut Farm Gate from Radio Ulster.

"Our farmers and members of the rural community across NI need to contact the public broadcaster to air their worries about this service being axed.

"We deserve to have a voice within the BBC and for us, that is Farm Gate.
Scottish farmers who wish to promote regional food products as well as establish new markets are being encouraged to apply for new funding.

Local food and drink projects can now apply for funding of up to 100,000 as part of the Scottish governments Regional Food Fund.

The fund is designed to support the development of regional food and drink products across Scotland.

So far, it has provided over 650,000 to more than 140 projects across the country.

A range of projects have been issued funding, including the Shetland Seafood Provenance Scheme, the Bute Kitchen Retail Project and the Clyde Island Gin Passport.

Projects such as food and drink festivals and on-farm vending machines have also been supported.

Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon encourage anyone who is interested to apply, including farmers.

The Regional Food Fund is an excellent opportunity for local businesses, producers and community groups to showcase the best products that their regions have to offer.

The fund is part of our wider Good Food Nation plans. These proposals will seek improve the availability of local food whilst also ensuring our food industry continues to grow in a way that is profitable and sustainable.

The fund allows for a maximum of 5,000 to be bid for within any application. The deadline for applications is 24 November.

Scotland Food & Drink's Fiona Richmond said: The fund encourages collaboration within regions and the supply chain, highlighting unique food and drink stories and experiences for us all to enjoy.

"The desire for local produce is strong, and we are proud to continue our support of regional food and drink initiatives.
Donald Trump compared himself to Nelson Mandela as he once again hit out at his criminal indictments.

Donald Trump has compared himself to Nelson Mandela

The former US president made a 90-minute address to supporters in New Hampshire and said he is willing to face punishment like former South African president Mandela - who spent 27 years in prison for opposing apartheid rule - for the sake of the United States.

Trump said: "We dont get scared. I dont mind being Nelson Mandela because Im doing it for a reason.

"Weve got to save our country from these fascists, these lunatics that were dealing with. Theyre horrible people and theyre destroying our country."

Trump's speech featured his customary attacks on his White House successor Joe Biden as he lambasted his rival's response to the crisis in the Middle East and declared that he would "prevent World War Three" if he returned to office.

The polarising politician also laid the blame for the 91 charges he faces across four criminal cases at the feet of the Biden administration.

Trump said: "Nobody ever got indicted as a political opponent (before). This is done by the Biden White House."

He also quipped that he "heard" that the Justice Department had "two more" indictments against him but had declined to issue them "because we've gone up in the polls every time".
With the summer now over and the clocks changing this weekend, Toyota has put together some autumn driving safety tips to deal with challenging conditions such as wet roads, fog and shortened daylight hours that accompany the glorious autumn colours. According to research by the RAC Foundation*, road traffic collisions increase by 19 per cent in the fortnight after putting the clocks back one hour from British Summer Time (BST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

Beware Autumn Driving Conditions

An all-wheel drive vehicle with strong on and off-road capabilities and a low centre of gravity for stability, such as the battery electric Toyota bZ4X AWD, will help drivers cope with difficult road conditions. However, the following tips apply to driving any car this autumn.

Slippery roads

Gold and copper leaves look beautiful on the trees but can become a hazard when they fall on wet roads, creating a skid risk and potentially obscuring road markings, or masking potholes. Take greater care when driving through areas bordered by deciduous trees by reducing speed, especially around corners.

Morning frost can create icy patches on shaded areas of the road and across bridges and overpasses. Take extra care by reducing your speed.

A car can float in as little as two feet of standing water, so dont attempt to cross deep water

Rain and floods

Rain reduces your visibility and increases braking distances, so its advisable to double the distance between you and the car in front.

Use your headlights when visibility is reduced. Fortunately, many modern cars like the Toyota bZ4X have headlights that automatically switch on in low light conditions. You should regularly check the functioning of all your lights, and the condition of your windscreen wipers, replacing any defective bulbs and blades.

If the roads are flooded, bear in mind that a car can float in as little as two feet of standing water, so dont attempt to cross deep water.

If crossing smaller pools of water, drive slowly but keep engine revs high if youre driving a standard petrol or diesel vehicle to avoid stalling. Beware of bow waves from approaching vehicles that can create higher water levels.

Explaining aquaplaning

When rain is so heavy the road surface becomes awash, theres a risk of aquaplaning, especially at high speeds. This is where the water between the road surface and the tyres leads to a loss of traction. If all four wheels are affected, there is a risk the car will skate across the water, with complete loss of control. If the steering begins to feel light or unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually.

Cold-weather tyres have better grip than a summer tyre

Dire tyres

October is Tyre Safety Month, so check that your tyres have sufficient tread depth to achieve good traction. The legal limit is 1.6mm but Toyota recommends a minimum of 3.0mm. A good test is to place a 20p coin in the main tread grooves of your tyre (within the central three-quarters of the tread width). If the outer band of the coin is visible, then your tread is below the legal limit and needs changing.

Wheels must be balanced, with equal tyre pressures left and right at each axle, so if your car seems to be slowly veering in one direction then either your tracking is out, your tyre pressures are unequal, or the treads on the front tyres dont match and need attention.

Preparing for a cold spell

Prepare for a cold spell by ensuring fluids such as engine coolant and windscreen wash are at the correct dilution and topped-up. Visit Toyotas official eBay store to replenish supplies.

Consider fitting cold-weather tyres, even if theres snow isnt forecast. They contain a higher percentage of natural rubber than a summer tyre so they remain supple and elastic when ambient temperatures are less than seven degrees Celsius. This allows the winter tyre to generate greater friction through its ability to flex and match the contours of the road. In addition, the deep tread pattern with small wavy incisions or stripes in each tread block act like thousands of tiny teeth biting into the road surface to provide additional grip, with less susceptibility to aquaplaning.

Longer hours of darkness mean you are less likely to spot dogs, cats, horses or pedestrians crossing the road

Be alert to animals and pedestrians

Longer hours of darkness mean you are less likely to spot dogs, cats or pedestrians crossing the road, so take extra care when driving in residential areas

Autumn coincides with deer breeding season, so be extra careful driving through rural and wooded areas, especially during sunrise and sunset when deer are most active. Take special note in areas where deer warning signs are displayed.

Beware of low visibility

Fog is one of the most dangerous weather conditions as an accident involving one vehicle can quickly involve others if cars are driving too close. Leave a distance of at least three seconds between you and the car in front.

Use your headlights and fog lights to increase your visibility to others. At junctions, wind down your window and listen for traffic.

Autumn mornings mean heavy dewfall. It's important to clear all your car windows of moisture, inside (see below) and out, before driving off, so that your view isn't compromised - just as you should de-ice them after night-time frosts. The job can be done in moments if you keep a cleaning blade in the car.

Beware of the fog on the inside of the car - vision clouded by condensation on the windows can be an issue during colder months when a build-up of moisture is caused by wet clothes, shoes or pets. Use the demister function to quickly clear the windscreen of condensation. Modern air conditioning systems in cars like the Toyota bZ4X offer different functions to help with keeping screens clear, so make sure youre familiar with what your cars climate control can do to help and remember to angle the air vents to achieve the best results.

by Matt Shine for www.femalefirst.co.uk

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Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina recently urged the European Union (EU) to offer Bangladesh benefits under the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) to support the country following its graduation from the least developed country (LDC) status in 2026.

She said this at the signing ceremony of several agreements, including a 350-million finance contract between Dhaka and the European Investment Bank, at the EU headquarters in Brussels, a news agency reported.

European Commission Chairman Ursula von der Leyen was also present during the signing ceremony.

PM Sheikh Hasina recently urged the EU to offer Bangladesh Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus benefits to support the country after it graduates from the least developed country status in 2026. She said this at the signing ceremony of several agreements, including a 350-million finance contract with the European Investment Bank, in Brussels.

Hasina thanked the European Union for its humanitarian assistance for the 1.2 million Rohingyas being temporarily sheltered by Bangladesh.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
The ratio of the general government gross debt to gross domestic product (GDP) in the euro area (EA20) at the end of the second quarter (Q2) this year stood at 90.3 per cent compared with 90.7 per cent at the end of Q1.

In the European Union (EU), the ratio also fell from 83.4 per cent to 83.1 per cent in the quarter.

The fall in both the regions was because an increase in GDP in absolute terms outweighed the increase in government debt, an official release noted.

The ratio of the general government gross debt to GDP in the euro area at the end of the second quarter (Q2) this year stood at 90.3 per cent compared with 90.7 per cent at the end of Q1. In the EU, the ratio also fell from 83.4 per cent to 83.1 per cent in the quarter. Compared with Q2 2022, the ratio also decreased in both the euro area and the EU.

Compared with Q2 2022, the ratio also decreased in both the euro area (from 93.5 per cent to 90.3 per cent) and the EU (from 85.9 per cent to 83.1 per cent).

At the end of Q2 2023, debt securities accounted for 83.4 per cent of euro area debt and for 82.9 per cent of EU general government debt. Loans made up 13.8 per cent and 14.3 per cent respectively and currency and deposits represented 2.8 per cent of euro area and 2.7 per cent of EU government debt.

Intergovernmental lending (IGL) as a percentage of GDP at the end of Q2 2023 stood at 1.6 per cent in the euro area and for 1.3 per cent in the EU.

Compared with Q1 2023, nine EU member states saw increases in this ratio at the end of Q2 2023 and 18 recorded falls.

The largest increases in the ratio were observed in Cyprus, Slovakia, Italy, Finland and Estonia, while the largest decreases were recorded in Latvia, Croatia, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Austria, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Germany and Sweden.

Compared with Q2 2022, six EU member states registered increases in this ratio at the end of Q2 2023, whereas 21 saw decreases.

Increases were recorded in Luxembourg, Finland, Estonia, Czechia, Slovakia and Bulgaria, while the largest decreases were observed in Greece, Portugal, Cyprus, Ireland, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria and Italy, Spain and the Netherlands.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Projecting a marginal decline in Cambodias real gross domestic product (GDP) to 5.6 per cent this year, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently termed its economic growth strong. It is expected to grow by 6.1 per cent in 2024.

On Cambodia, we have 5.6 per cent growth this year and 6.1 next year, 2024, it's only 0.2 and 0.1 less than what we had before. And like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) theme, it's really revised down only because of weaker external demand. So, we do expect things to improve. And Cambodia is very exposed to the US and European market and demand there is weaker also, Shanaka (Jay) Peiris, division chief of regional studies, Asia and Pacific Department, said during a press briefing on Regional Economic Outlook for Asia and Pacific in Singapore recently.

Cambodia's real GDP is projected to decline to 5.6 per cent this year, as per the IMF. However, this is considered strong growth, and it is expected to rebound to 6.1 per cent in 2024. The reason for the slight revision is weaker external demand, particularly from US and Europe to which Cambodia is highly exposed. China's influence also plays a role.

China exposure is also significant, and plays a role in the slightly weaker growth, which is still solid. RCEP does provide a diversification, he said.

We've seen integration in Cambodia with ASEAN trading partners increase rather than decreasing some of the exposure to US, Europe, which is very high. So, in that sense, it's helping the Cambodian economy diversify, Peiris added.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
Known to be one of Bollywood's prettiest actresses, Tara Sutaria just recently took fans by surprise with her raw and gritty, intense look in the first poster of her upcoming film Apurva, and is now here to charm with her beauty and grace in the music video of a beautiful ballad by the extremely talented, Prateek Kuhad, titled, Mulaqat. Fans cannot get enough of the young actress's presence and talent in the video.

The video features a gorgeous Tara working on her ballet in the most graceful and skilled way, while she raises the aesthetics bar of the video. As Prateek is known for his aesthetically pleasing videos, it was no surprise that he had Tara Sutaria be a part of this beautiful melody. The video shows the anticipation before the final meeting of two lovers in an adorable and heartwarming way and their chemistry pays off.

Excited to see Tara in it, fans were quick to comment-

One said, "Tara sutaria is angelic beauty

She is something different, her facial features are divine"

Another said, "Lyrics+ composing+ voice+acting + Tara="

One commented, "1 came just to watch the most gorgeous and talented Tara can't wait for her to shine in

Apurva!"

One also said, "Tara is such a beauty and talented "

A fan commented, "Congratulations queen Tara beautiful song  

you two nailed it  BRAVO Tara! You are stunning and nobody can beat you in Bollywood you are the epitome of beauty, elegance and sensuality  Keep inspiring us!"

A user also wrote, "Beautiful shoot , beautiful song & beautiful you tara "

One other said, "@tarasutaria the song is beautiful. I love you @tarasutaria . You are really very beautiful along with that you are immensely talented @tarasutaria"

And many other comments including, "Khubsuraaat ," "Bravo Tara," "breezee...." etc and many hearts emojis.

Checkout the music video-

On the work front, Tara will next be seen in a self-led, intense thriller titled Apurva, the first poster of which left fans completely surprised with the actress's total deviation from her normal elegant self as she looks gritty, bloody and raw on the poster. Check out-
Priyanka Pareek, the writer behind the captivating audio series "Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life." Born and raised in the vibrant city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, Priyanka's educational journey led her to acquire a degree in Engineering. However, her path was destined for a remarkable shift as she transitioned from a promising IT career to a passionate writer with Pocket FM.

Q1: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

A: I was born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, and completed my education there, holding a degree in Engineering. I'm currently 34 years old and reside in Pune, Maharashtra. My journey into writing has been quite diverse, with a background in IT engineering for about 3 to 4 years before transitioning to work in an NGO. During this time, I kept writing, although it wasn't yet a commercial endeavour.

Q2: How did you transition from an IT job to writing?

A: After leaving my NGO job, I took a two-year break to explore and develop my writing style. It was during this time that my foray into commercial writing began, which has continued for the past 2-3 years. My passion for writing remained constant throughout my career shifts.

Q3: Tell us something about your audio series Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life?

A: Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life follows Arpita's life as she moves from a small town to an unhappy marriage in Gurgaon. Her world takes an unexpected twist when she becomes entangled in the life of Koel Malhotra, a popular Radio Masti personality. Juggling two identities, Arpita encounters challenges and a mysterious stalker while exploring themes of love, identity, and empowerment. It is a mix of drama, romance, and suspense that keeps listeners hooked.

Q4: How did your NGO experience impact your writing?

A: Working in an NGO exposed me to various social issues, such as hygiene and coordinating with people, which deeply influenced my writing. It was during this period that I realized the importance of addressing these issues through storytelling. I waited for the right opportunity to share these social issues, and that opportunity came with my work in Pocket FM's fiction audio series.

Q5: How has your family supported your writing journey?

A: My family, particularly my husband, has been incredibly supportive of my writing career. Despite having to cancel vacation plans on occasion due to work commitments, he continues to encourage and appreciate my work. Initially, it was a shock for my in-laws when I left my well-paying job for writing, but I managed to convince them, and they are now happy with my choice.

Q6: How has Pocket FM helped in your writing journey?

A: Pocket FM has not only given me the platform to showcase my writing but has also provided me with authority and recognition in the field. Working with their creative team has expanded my thinking and given me a fresh perspective on storytelling.

Q7: Can you share some advice for budding writers? And what's next for you after "Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life"?

A: My advice to aspiring writers is to write regularly, expressing your thoughts and imagination. Reading extensively, from various genres including mythological and fiction, can broaden your horizons. Additionally, interacting with new people and engaging in daily diary writing can be immensely helpful in nurturing your writing skills. Remember, there's no single formula for success; it's about staying dedicated and passionate about your craft. After "Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life," I have been involved with other upcoming shows. My journey in audio series writing continues, and I'm excited to explore new projects and stories in the future.
Anirudh Ravichander Faces Plagiarism Controversy Over Leo's 'Ordinary Person': In the world of Kollywood, Anirudh Ravichander is a renowned music composer, known for his work in blockbuster films.

Suriya 43 Update: Dulquer, Nazriya, And Vijay Varma Join Sudha Kongara's Film - Announcement Video Released

Anirudh Ravichander, with a slew of eagerly awaited projects, has become a household name in the industry. His musical prowess will soon be showcased in highly anticipated films such as Ajith's 'Vidaa Muyarchi,' Rajinikanth's 'Thalaivar 170' and '171,' Kamal Haasan's 'Indian 2,' and several other high-profile productions.

Most recently, Thalapathy Vijay's 'Leo,' directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and featuring Anirudh's music, hit theatres and has been making waves. The soundtrack for the film has been well-received, with all of Anirudh's songs becoming chart-toppers.

However, the music talent recently found himself embroiled in a plagiarism controversy related to the English song "Ordinary Person," which he composed for the film 'Leo.'

Netizens were quick to draw parallels between the track and an album titled 'Where Are You,' composed by Belarusian electronic musician Otnicka. Accusations of song theft led to Otnicka addressing the issue on Instagram, acknowledging the situation's complexity but refraining from making accusations.

He said, "Guys, thanks for your messages about the movie "Leo". I can see everything, but it's physically impossible to answer everyone. The mail is overflowing with messages, Instagram, as well as thousands of comments on YouTube under the video "Where Are You". The situation is very unclear... We are looking into this and a little later I will give an assessment of everything that is happening. But I'm not accusing anyone yet. ! Important ! One of the authors of "Otnicka - Where Are You" is also a composer Artem Mikhaenkin - @mihaenkin Thank you  #otnicka #whereareyou #leo #ordinaryperson" (sic)

Blue Sattai Maran Trolls Anirudh

Enter Blue Sattai Maran, a YouTuber known for his film criticism who didn't hold back on mocking and blaming Anirudh. He suggested that Anirudh should be called a "robbery star" instead of a "rock star" for allegedly stealing foreign music. Maran's comments ignited a wave of controversy and backlash on social media platforms.

Amala Paul To Get Married: Love Story Takes A Romantic Twist With Surprise Marriage Proposal

'Where Are You,' the album in question, was initially uploaded on YouTube in 2020 and has since garnered 62 million views. Meanwhile, the song 'Ordinary Person,' with lyrics by Heisenberg and vocals by Nikita Gandhi, continues to trend on YouTube despite the escalating plagiarism allegations against Anirudh Ravichander.
Theatres Faces Profit Challenges With "Leo": Tirupur Subramaniam, President of the Theater Owners Association, has raised concerns over the profitability of theaters in Tamil Nadu following the release of "Leo," a Tamil-language action thriller directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj and starring the iconic Thalapathy Vijay.

The film made its much-anticipated debut on October 19, with Telugu and Hindi-dubbed versions simultaneously hitting the screens. However, the journey to the movie's release was marred by several obstacles, including a dispute over revenue sharing.

Leo Release Puts Tamil Nadu Theatres' Profits At Risk

"Leo" was distributed in Tamil Nadu by Seven Screen Studio, which demanded an unprecedented 80 percent share of the film's revenue. In response, theatre owners across Chennai initially protested, refusing to screen the movie. Only after negotiations were they persuaded to showcase "Leo," ultimately bringing it to more than 850 screens throughout Tamil Nadu.

In a recent statement, Tirupur Subramaniam, the President of the Theatre Owners Association, expressed the industry's financial struggles in relation to "Leo." He emphasised that the film failed to generate profits for theatre owners due to the substantial revenue share demanded. Subramaniam noted, "Leo was not a profitable film for us. The reason is that they have bought share distribution, which is unprecedented in Tamil Nadu. Most theatre owners did not screen this film willingly."

Tirupur Subramaniam Advocates Fair Revenue-Sharing for Theatre Sustainability

He further explained how the excessive revenue-sharing model imposed a financial burden on theatres, regardless of the film's overall earnings. Subramaniam pointed out that if such high sharing percentages continue, theatre maintenance and operational costs cannot be covered effectively. Notably, the film was released in neighbouring Kerala with a 60 percent share, while Tamil Nadu theatres were burdened with an 80 percent share demand.

The situation highlights the challenges faced by theatre owners in the region and the need for a more equitable revenue-sharing model to ensure the sustainability of the industry. Subramaniam concluded by stating that the lack of alternative film options forced theatres to screen "Leo," highlighting the industry's concern regarding fair distribution practices.
Bigg Boss 17 Boss Meter Update: Months after the conclusion of Bigg Boss 16, the new season of the Salman Khan-hosted show made its small screen debut two weeks ago, amid high expectations. As previously reported, the house has been divided into three zones (heart, mind, and strength), and Bigg Boss is openly showing favoritism by supporting contestants at his convenience.

In Bigg Boss 17, there is a diverse lineup of known participants, including Neil Bhatt-Aishwarya Sharma, Ankita Lokhande-Vicky Hain, Isha Malviya, Abhishek Kumar, Mannara Chopra, Munawar Faruqui, Rinku Dhawan, Anurag Dobhal, and Sunyy Aryaa, also known as Tehelka Bhai, among others.

BIGG BOSS 17 BOSS METER WEEK 2: MUNAWAR FARUQUI VS ANKITA LOKHANDE

Bigg Boss 17: Double EVICTION Twist To 2 Wildcard Entries; All About Second Weekend Ka Vaar

With the commencement of Bigg Boss 17, the weekly Boss Meter contest also started on Jio Cinema, providing fans with the opportunity to show their support for their favorite contestants on social media. In the first week, YouTuber Anurag Dobhal aka Babu Bhaiya won the title after beating Munawar Faruqui in the final round.

Currently, on X (formerly known as Twitter), the Boss Meter Week 2 contest is in progress and it has led to two popular contestants reaching the final round. Earlier today, on October 26, Jio Cinema's official social media handle disclosed that Munawar Faruqui and Ankita Lokhande, have entered the final stage of the Boss Meter competition in the second week of Bigg Boss 17.

The post read, "The fight just got even more fierce! Who's your pick? Vote for your favourite contestant by using their hashtag in the comments."

Anupamaa TWIST: THIS Actor-Dancer To Enter Rupali Gauly's Show As NEW Guy Opposite Dimple? Deets OUT

Here's the post:

MUNAWAR OR ANKITA - WHO WILL WIN BOSS METER IN WEEK 2?

Interestingly, both of them have significant social media presence and boast a substantial fan base. It will be interesting to discover the winner of the Boss Meter Week 2 contest. Munawar or Ankita - who is your preferred choice? Feel free to express your opinions in the comments section below!
Bigg Boss 17 Weekend Ka Vaar: The second Weekend Ka Vaar of Bigg Boss Season 17, hosted by Salman Khan, is just around the corner, and fans are looking forward to it. These highly anticipated weekend episodes are set to be particularly captivating for viewers as the second week of Bigg Boss 17 turned out to be interesting.

While Salman Khan reprimanded Isha Malviya last week for using her ex-boyfriend and co-contestant Abhishek Kumar conveniently, it'll be interesting to see if he'll bash them again for their behaviour with each other in the second week of Bigg Boss 17. As social media influencers Anurag Dobhal, Sunny Aryaa, and Arun Mahashettey accused makers of being biased towards TV actors, we wonder how the superstar will react to it.

From the host guiding contestants to an intriguing double eviction twist, here's everything you need to know about the upcoming Weekend Ka Vaar of Bigg Boss 17.

BIGG BOSS 17 WEEKEND KA VAAR GUESTLIST

Bigg Boss 17 First Wildcard: Isha Malviya's Actor-Beau To Enter BB 17? We Wonder How Abhishek Kumar Will REACT

#WeekendKaVaar Shoot Updates



 Sohail Khan and Arbaaz Khan to be seen as guest

 Karan Kundrra and Mouni Roy to be seen as guests promoting Temptation Island

 Double Elimination Most Likely

 Wild Card contestants - Samarth Jurel and Manasvi Mamgai #BiggBoss_Tak  #BiggBoss_Tak (@BiggBoss_Tak) October 26, 2023

Anupamaa TWIST: THIS Actor-Dancer To Enter Rupali Gauly's Show As NEW Guy Opposite Dimple? Deets OUT

According to reports, Salman Khan will be joined by brothers Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan as guests on Weekend Ka Vaar. Also, Bigg Boss 15 finalist Karan Kundrra will grace the show with Mouni Roy to promote their new show Temptation Island India. The show will soon premiere on Jio Cinema and they're hosting it. Bigg Boss 10 fame Manu Punjabi is likely to be a part of the Weekend Ka Vaar too.

BIGG BOSS 17 DOUBLE EVICTION TWIST

While there was no elimination in the first week of Bigg Boss 17, a total of six contestants got nominated for eviction this week - Neil Bhatt-Aishwarya Sharma, Khanzaadi, Soniya Bansal, Sunny Aryaa aka Tehelka Bhai, and Sana Raees Khan. There are rumours that Bigg Boss 17 makers are planning to introduce a double eviction twist this week. As reported earlier, Sana, Tehelka, and Soniya are in the danger zone and it'll be interesting to see who among them will bid adieu to the show this time.

BIGG BOSS 17: 2 WILDCARD CONTESTANTS TO ENTER?

Bigg Boss 17 premiered just two weeks ago and there are rumours about two wildcard entries. Reportedly, Isha Malviya's alleged boyfriend Samarth Jurel and Ajay Devgn's Action Jackson co-star Manasvi Mamgai are set to enter the Bigg Boss house as wildcards. However, an official announcement regarding the same is still awaited.
Zee TV recently introduced a thought-provoking new fiction show - 'Kyunki... Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai'. The story touches upon its protagonist Ambika's endeavor of disproving a general notion that 'Saas kabhi maa, aur Bahu kabhi beti nahi ban sakti' through a landmark decision of adopting a girl child but raising her as a bahu and not beti, who will keep the family together after growing up. In the recent episodes, the viewers witnessed how Hetal (Dolphin Dubey) has been creating issues in Kesar's (Navika Kotia) life and trying to turn her fiance- Suraj (Lakshay Khurana) against her.

While every actor's character demands planning and plotting against each other for good or bad in the show, it looks like the situation is completely opposite off-screen. Ever since the show went on air, all the actors have been bonding really well with each other, and the peaceful quality time they get to spend with one another is when they are having lunch. In fact, being a major foodie from the lot, Manasi Joshi Roy has made a group to chat about who will bring what in their lunchbox. The group's name is called 'What's in your dabba?', where everyone puts up a message to discuss the menu of the lunch. Well, isn't that really cool?

Manasi Joshi Roy said, "Being a major foodie, I enjoy sharing my food and love feeding people. In the initial days, I used to come on the set and ask everyone what they have got for lunch. Later I just made a group called 'What's in your dabba?', to chat with all my co-stars about their lunch plans. Most of us get lunch from home, so every morning, everyone puts up a message telling who is bringing what, and whoever does not, I tell them to just get their appetite to the table, because we always have enough food for everyone. And because Ekta and I are the two true Gujjus on set, we always have a basket full of snacks, so whenever someone is hungry, they know where to find it."

She added, "I just feel that eating together builds a great bond, the half an hour we get on the set where we are not working, just relaxing, enjoying our meal, and having fun, is really precious. From our directors, DOP, and other cast members, we all set up a big table during lunchtime and keep our dabbas there for everyone to eat, it's like potluck day, but every day."

Well, the cast of Kyunki... Saas Maa Bahu Beti Hoti Hai is definitely having a great time during their lunch breaks.

In the upcoming episodes, the viewers will witness how despite Hetal's brutal behavior towards Kesar, Kesar fights back with Ambika to get Hetal back to the Rajguar house, because her house gets sold in the auction. Will Ambika accept Hetal back? Or will she fight with Kesar against this?

To find what happens next, tune into Kyunki... Saas Maa Bahu Beti Hoti Hai, every day at 6.30 pm, only on Zee TV!
The sizzle of pans and the aroma of spices fill the air as MasterChef India kicks off the heart-pounding competition to find the next culinary genius of the country. The stage is set with the top 12 contestants who are showcasing their culinary prowess and challenging the normal standards to emerge as the ultimate MasterChef. In the first-ever challenge of this season, contestant Kriti Dhiman, a 23-year-old home baker from Gobindgarh, Punjab steals the spotlight with her lip-smacking creation - Black Garlic Ice Cream.

Kriti seizes the opportunity to choose her favourite ingredient - dates and makes it the base for a delectable date pudding. However, the true magic unfolds when the judges throw a curveball at her - to choose one out of three secret ingredients presented by them. Kriti fearlessly opts for Black Garlic, defying all odds and crafting an extraordinary dish. Despite its unconventional nature, Kriti transforms her daring choice into a velvety black garlic ice cream, which leaves all three judges in absolute awe of her culinary brilliance.

Among the panel, Chef Ranveer Brar showers heaps of praise on Kriti's dish. With a resounding bang of his signature spatula, he exclaims, "Swaad Aa Gaya," signifying the unparalleled taste experience. In his characteristic style, Ranveer goes on to say, "Kriti's creation transcends the ordinary. it's a symphony of flavours that are a pure delight to the taste buds. Her choice to incorporate black garlic into her ice cream is nothing short of mind-blowing. It takes courage to experiment with flavours at this level, and her risk has paid off in the most delicious way possible. This is the kind of innovation that sets MasterChef India's contestants apart.

As the competition heats up, MasterChef India on Sony LIV promises an extraordinary blend of creativity and courage, setting new benchmarks in the world of culinary arts. With Chefs Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Pooja Dhingra at the helm, this digital-exclusive season boasts a gastronomical extravaganza like no other.

Tune in to MasterChef India, streaming now only on Sony LIV from Monday-Friday at 8pm!
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 25, 2023) - Eureka Lithium Corp. (CSE: ERKA) (OTCQB: UREKF) (FSE: S580) ("Eureka Lithium" or "Eureka" or the "Company") is pleased to announce, further to its news release of October 6, 2023, that it has closed a non-brokered private placement financing, issuing 2,152,000 units of the Company ("Units") for gross proceeds of $1,076,000 (the "Private Placement").

Each Unit consists of one (1) common share in the capital of the Company ("Share") and one-half (1/2) of one (1) Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"), with each Warrant entitling the holder to purchase a Share at an exercise price of $0.65 until October 25, 2025.

In connection with closing of the Private Placement, the Company paid cash finder's fees in the aggregate of $53,270 and issued a total of 106,540 finder's warrants (each, a "Finder's Warrant"). Each Finder's Warrant is exercisable into a Share at an exercise price of $0.65 until October 25, 2025. The net proceeds from the Private Placement are intended to be used to advance the Company's Raglan West, Raglan South and New Leaf Camps, for non-flow through exploration and evaluation expenditures, marketing, advertising and for general and administrative expenditures.

Because the Private Placement was completed pursuant to the LIFE Exemption, certain securities issued in connection with the Private Placement will not be subject to resale restrictions in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.

An amended and restated offering document dated October 23, 2023 relating to the Private Placement, amending and restating the offering document dated October 6, 2023, was posted under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca, on the Company's website at www.eurekalithiumcorp.com, and was delivered to prospective subscribers prior to closing of the Private Placement.

The securities described herein have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or available exemptions from such registration requirements. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States, or in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Corporate Video

To view a new Eureka Lithium corporate video, visit www.EurekaLithiumCorp.com (https://eurekalithiumcorp.com) or the following URL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Vvm0zfNFp4

Corporate Presentation

Visit the Eureka Lithium homepage or click on the following URL to view the Company's Corporate Presentation:

https://eurekalithiumcorp.com/EurekaLithium_Q3_2023.pdf

About Eureka Lithium Corp.

Eureka Lithium is the largest lithium-focused landowner in the northern third of Quebec, known as the Nunavik region, with 100% ownership of three projects comprising 1,408 sq. km in the emerging Raglan West, Raglan South and New Leaf Lithium Camps. These claims were acquired from legendary prospector Shawn Ryan and are located in a region that hosts two operating nickel mines with deep-sea port access.

For more information please contact:

Jeffrey Wilson

Chief Executive Officer

Email: info@eurekalithiumcorp.com

Cautionary Statement

Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, such as statements regarding the use of proceeds from the Private Placement, are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's expectations and are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) has not reviewed, approved, or disapproved the contents of this press release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185269
Potential merger to create new industry leader.

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 25, 2023) - MYND Life Sciences (CSE: MYND) (OTCQB: MYNDF) ("MYND" or the "Company"), a pioneering biopharmaceutical research and development company dedicated to revolutionizing treatments for patients battling relentless neurological and inflammatory diseases, announces that it has taken a definitive step forward by entering into a non-binding letter of intent ("LOI") with Cava Healthcare Inc (CAVA) to merge these two industry leaders to form a powerful new commercial entity. MYND already shares a robust business relationship with CAVA, particularly concerning their patents in two pivotal areas. This strategic merger is poised to redefine the landscape of medical innovation and is a testament to the unwavering commitment of both companies to drive transformative advancements in healthcare.

The proposed merger will be preceded by independent third-party valuations of both companies. Arrangements within each company will be negotiated by subcommittees of unconflicted Directors from both CAVA and MYND and it will require affirmative votes by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

Cava brings a portfolio of over 40 patents, licenses and patent applications that can be separated into nine families: (1) Potential new methods to treat Alzheimer's disease and related diseases, (2) Potential new methods to diagnose Alzheimer's disease and related diseases, (3) Potential new methods to treat cancer with recombinant cytokines, (4) Potential new methods to treat cancer with cell-based therapies, (5) Potential new methods to treat cancer with small molecules, (6) Potential new methods to predict cancer outcome (prognosticators), (7) Potential new methods to screen for anti-cancer agents, (8) Potential new methods to screen for immune enhancing agents, and (9) The creation and use of synthetic curcuminoids to treat cancer.

The integration of CAVA Healthcare's extensive portfolio of patents with MYND's scientific expertise represents a monumental opportunity for groundbreaking advancements in medical technology. MYND's seasoned scientific team, with their deep knowledge and innovative approach, is anticipated to be the driving force behind the evolution of these technologies. Their expertise will not only facilitate the development but also elevate these advancements to new heights, potentially revolutionizing the landscape of Alzheimer's treatment, cancer therapies, and diagnostic methodologies for both. The potential merger between CAVA's intellectual wealth and MYND's scientific prowess holds the promise of transformative breakthroughs, marking a monumental stride in the fight against devastating diseases and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare on a global scale.

MYND CEO, Dr. Lyle Oberg, MD, stated that, "MYND's business strategy revolves around translating groundbreaking research methods, emphasizing scientific excellence, into safe and efficient neuro-pharmaceutical treatments and diagnostic tools for disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and inflammatory diseases. The acquisition of cancer patents marks a significant expansion for our scientific team, opening new avenues for commercial exploration and development. We are thrilled to establish a robust partnership with Cava Healthcare. We firmly believe that the synergy between our intellectual assets and theirs will fuel substantial and lasting growth for both MYND and CAVA shareholders."

CAVA independent Director, Dr. Terry Pearson stated, "Having assessed MYND's intellectual property and monitored MYND's current momentum in developing and translating new medicinal products, that has created enduring value for shareholders, we firmly believe that the merged entity distinguishes it in the biopharmaceutical sector. Under Dr. Oberg's leadership, it is exceptionally well-positioned for remarkable, near-termed success."

It is anticipated the transaction will be completed in Q1 2024.

ABOUT MYND LIFE SCIENCES INC.

MYND Life Sciences Inc. is a medical biotech drug research and development company focused on neuro-pharmaceutical and novel drug development, diagnostics and vaccines. MYND is developing new biological entities (NBEs) and new chemical entities (NCEs) and differentiates itself from other (bio)pharmaceutical companies by unique molecular concepts for the applications of psilocybin analogs for overcoming disease. The Company advances pharmaceutical developments through rigorous science and clinical trials while diligently patenting and safeguarding its intellectual property.

For more information and to subscribe to MYND's mailing list, please visit https://myndsciences.com/contact-us/.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Dr. Lyle Oberg, MD, CEO

Email: ir@myndsciences.com

Phone:+1 (780) 965-0122

Web: www.myndsciences.com

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 MYND to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this release.

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. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

None of the securities issued in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. This press 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 where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185281
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 25, 2023) - Exploits Discovery Corp. (CSE: NFLD) (OTCQX: NFLDF) (FSE: 634) ("Exploits" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it will conduct a non-brokered private placement (the "Offering") of up to 18,181,818 flow-through common shares (each, an "FT Share") at a price of $0.11 per FT Share for gross proceeds of up to $2.0 million.

The gross proceeds received by the Company from the Offering will be used to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" ("CEE") that are "flow-through mining expenditures" (as such term is defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada)) related to the Company's mining projects.

In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay a finder's fee in respect of subscribers introduced to the Company by an eligible finder.

All securities issued under the Offering will be subject to a four-month-and-one-day statutory hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws. Completion of the Offering remains subject to any required regulatory approvals.

About Exploits Discovery Corp.

Exploits is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition and development of mineral projects in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. The Company is focused on discovering high-grade structurally hosted epizonal gold similar to New Found Gold's success along the Appleton Fault zone and parallel structures within the Exploits Subzone.

Exploits is utilizing its experienced, talented local team and geologic understanding with the vision to become one of the most successful explorers in Canada.

On Behalf of the Board

/s/ "Jeff Swinoga"

President and CEO

For more information, please contact:

Shanda Kilborn

VP, Investor Relations

+1 (778) 819-2708

investors@exploits.gold

https://exploitsdiscovery.com

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain 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. Readers 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 including, but not limited to, market conditions, availability of financing, actual results of the Company's exploration and other activities, environmental risks, future metal prices, operating risks, accidents, labor issues, delays in obtaining governmental approvals and permits, and other risks in the mining industry. All the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those in our continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. 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 save as required by applicable law.

Acknowledgments

Exploits Discovery would like to acknowledge the financial support of the Junior Exploration Assistance Program from the Department of Natural Resources, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185293


DEARBORN (dpa-AFX) - The United Auto Workers union said it has reached a tentative agreement with Ford Motor Co. (F) after 41 days on strike at the Big Three companies.



In a Separate press release, Ford confirmed that it has reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering its U.S. operations. The agreement is subject to ratification by Ford's UAW-represented employees.



Ford said it is focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping its full lineup to its customers again.



Meanwhile, the UAW confirmed that Ford workers will return to work while the agreement goes through the ratification process, with the UAW National Ford Council convening in Detroit to review the agreement.



However, the Stand Up strike continues at Stellantis and GM, where members fight for a fair agreement.



According to UAW, the gains in the Ford agreement are valued at more than four times the gains from the 2019 contract, and provide more in base wage increases than Ford workers have received in the past 22 years. The agreement grants 25% in base wage increases through April 2028, and will cumulatively raise the top wage by over 30% to more than $40 an hour, and raise the starting wage by 68%, to over $28 an hour.



UAW noted that the lowest-paid workers at Ford will see a raise of more than 150% over the life of the agreement, with some workers receiving an immediate 85% increase immediately upon ratification.



The UAW said the agreement reinstates major benefits lost during the Great Recession, including Cost-of-Living Allowances and a three-year Wage Progression, as well as killing divisive wage tiers in the union. It improves retirement for current retirees, those workers with pensions, and those who have 401(k) plans. It also includes a historic right to strike over plant closures, a first for the union.



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
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 25, 2023) - Cybeats Technologies Corp. (CSE: CYBT) (OTCQB: CYBCF) ("Cybeats' or the "Company") announces that it has been requested by OTC Markets Group Inc. ("OTC Markets") to issue this statement about promotional activity concerning its common shares traded on the OTCQB market (operated by OTC Markets).

On Monday, October 23, 2023, OTC Markets informed the Company that it became aware of certain promotional activities concerning the Company and its common shares traded on the OTCQB Marketplace, including the distribution of two newsletter emails published by Portfolio Wealth Global and Future Money Trends, discussing the Company, its business and the cybersecurity market generally.

On May 22, 2023, the Company entered into an advertising agreement with Gold Standard Media, LLC ("Gold Standard"), whereby Gold Standard, along with its affiliates, Future Money Trends LLC, Wealth Research Group LLC, and Portfolio Wealth Global LLC (collectively, the "Service Providers'), would provide investor relations and advertising services to the Company. The Company was therefore aware of the Service Providers' activities respecting the Company since May 22, 2023. The Service Providers are third-party marketing and advertising firms. The Agreement is valid until May 22, 2024. The appointment of the Service Providers, the nature of the relationship between the Company and the Service Providers as well as the compensation to be paid to the Service Providers were publicly disclosed in a news release on May 22, 2023, which can be found under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ and on the Company's website.

The Company provided the Service Providers with publicly available sources of information for its marketing materials and management reviewed and commented on the materials prepared by the Service Providers prior to their dissemination, including to ensure factual accuracy. The Company does not believe the statements in the marketing materials and newsletter emails were materially false or misleading. After inquiry of management, other than as disclosed herein, no directors, control persons, officers, or controlling shareholders have been involved with the creation, distribution, or payment of promotional materials related to the Company and its securities. The Company had the opportunity to review and comment on the copy material which formed the e-mail material published by the Service Providers prior to publication. Additionally, the Company only supports content related to Cybeats' core business of product & technology development and delivery. Any content, opinions, or claims made by the Service Providers or the content creators they utilize is neither endorsed nor supported by the Company.

The Company understands this promotional activity coincided with increased trading activity in the common shares beginning on October 16, 2023. The Company has no opinion as to whether or not and/or the extent to which the promotional activity affected trading activity because of the many factors that affect trading activity generally, which may include promotional activities as well as the volatile nature of the industry in which the Company is involved and the prior issuance of public news releases including but not limited to corporate update news releases.

In the past 90 days, Vladislav Kharbash and Dimitri Rediman, CTO, exercised stock options and sold shares. After an inquiry by management, none of the other Company's executive officers, directors, or, to the knowledge of the Company, controlling shareholders and third party service providers sold or purchased shares of the Company within the past 90 days. In addition, other than the Company's engaged market maker, Generation IACP Inc., management is not aware of any third-party service providers who have sold or purchased the Company's securities within the past 90 days.

Over the preceding 12 months, in addition to the above disclosed engagements with Gold Standard and its affiliates, the Company has also worked with third party contractual service providers BullVestor MedienGmBH, Haywood Securities Inc., North Equities Corp., and Outside the Box Capital, to provide consulting or digital marketing services, including content creation, distribution and market awareness campaigns. The Company has not issued shares, or convertible instruments allowing conversion to equity securities, at prices constituting, at the time of issuance of such shares or convertible instruments, a discount to the then current market price.

For more complete and specific information regarding the Company, its activities, the risks associated with these activities, and a summary of issuance of shares or convertible securities, readers should consult the Company's public filings on SEDAR+ and its website.

About Cybeats

Cybeats is a cybersecurity company providing SBOM management and software supply chain intelligence technology, helping organizations to manage risk, meet compliance requirements, and secure their software from procurement to development and operation. Our platform gives customers comprehensive visibility and transparency into their software supply chain, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and increase revenue. Cybeats. Software Made Certain. Website: https://cybeats.com

SUBSCRIBE: For more information, or to subscribe to the Company's mail list, visit: https://www.cybeats.com/investors.

Contact:

James Van Staveren

Corporate Development

Phone: 1-888-713-SBOM (7266)

Email: ir@cybeats.com

Forward-looking Information Cautionary Statement

Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made, and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the CSE. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company's control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for the products described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Company filings are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185299
CAIRO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At the UNESCO-Huawei International Forum on Digital Platforms and Competencies for Teachers yesterday, Egypt's Ministry of Education officially launched the National Distance Learning Centre for the Continuous Professional Development of Educators.

The learning center was developed as part of the UNESCO-Huawei Technology-enabled Open Schools for All project, which is running in Egypt, Ghana, and Ethiopia from 2020 to 2023.

At the beginning of his speech, Dr. Reda Hegazy, Minister of Education and Technical Education, expressed his delight at attending the forum, extending his thanks and appreciation to UNESCO and Huawei for their support and for choosing Egypt to be a partner in the Open Schools Project.

He also praised the accomplishments made by the Open Schools project in cooperation with the Professional Academy for Teachers and the UNESCO Office in Cairo stating, "The Open Schools program has made notable achievements in the education sector in Egypt in terms of capacity building and preparing enrichment training courses for teachers, various digital platforms, and the establishment of the National Center for Distance Education, to improve the skills of educators in Egypt."

Technology-enabled Open Schools for All (TeOSS)

Alongside the launch of the learning center, the forum explored best practices in relation to the TeOSS project. Implemented in partnership with the ministries of education in Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ghana, the UNESCO-Huawei TeOSS project is piloting and testing digital education platforms in the three African nations. It is also providing training in digital skills for teachers and students, developing policy frameworks for digital education, and evaluating the project's efficacy with a view to scaling out TeOSS to other nations in Africa.

In Egypt, for example, 300 teachers have received trained in digital skills through the project, and the new learning center will boost distance learning and digital literacy capabilities for 950,000 K-12 educators in underserved communities.

In his speech, Sobhi Tawil, Director of the Future of Learning and Innovation Team at UNESCO, welcomed the attendees at this forum, praising the cooperation with the Ministry of Education in Egypt and its role in supporting future horizons.

He added that the forum comes within Huawei's project to enable open schools and raise digital learning competencies since 2020, which has contributed to raising the quality of education, ensuring access and continuity of education in Egypt, Ethiopia and Ghana and that Egypt was one of the first countries to implement the digital learning initiative, noting that the opening of the National Center for Distance Education in Egypt represents a big step in digital transformation.

The TeOSS project is designed to blend online and offline learning to maximize education outcomes, and also to ensure learning continuity in both normal and crisis conditions. According to UNICEF, for example, more than 616 million students were still affected by full or partial school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic as late as January 2022.

Building digital education capabilities at a national level can help mitigate disruption to learning if unforeseen events occur.

Huawei's involvement in the project falls under its long-term digital inclusion and sustainability initiative TECH4ALL. The education domain of TECH4ALL is committed to developing tech-driven solutions that can help achieve UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

"Education matters for all, and our strategy is to improve digital skills for the educators in order to address the challenge in Egypt. Let's work together to build a more inclusive and sustainable digital world." said Joyce Liu, Director, TECH4ALL Digital Inclusion Program Office for Huawei.

Alongside the launch of the learning center and the TeOSS project, the two-day forum explored best practices for building digital platforms and educator capabilities, resource-sharing internationally, and expanding collaboration in digital education. The forum was attended by government ministers and senior representatives from Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ghana; representatives from UNESCO and Huawei; TeOSS partners; and international experts.

About TECH4ALL

TECH4ALL is Huawei's long-term digital inclusion initiative and action plan. Enabled by innovative technologies and partnerships, TECH4ALL is designed to help promote inclusion and sustainability in the digital world.

For more information, please visit Huawei TECH4ALL website at https://www.huawei.com/en/tech4all

Follow us on Twitter at

https://twitter.com/HUAWEI_TECH4ALL

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258128/image.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/huawei-showcases-the-achievements-of-the-technology-enabled-open-schools-for-all-project-in-cooperation-with-unesco-301968221.html
BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a report from China.org.cn:

Since joining the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2015, Iraq and China have collaborated on several projects to boost bilateral trade and investment. In 2022, foreign trade between Iraq and China surged to US$53.37 billion, a year-on-year increase of 42.9%. Commenting on the growth of trade between the two nations in recent years, Iraq's Ambassador to China, Shorsh Khalid Said, stated, "We have strengthened our ties with Chinese allies. China has emerged as Iraq's biggest trading partner, and Iraq ranks third among Arab countries as a trading partner for China."

Ambassador Said highlighted that under the BRI framework, Chinese firms have forged partnerships with their Iraqi counterparts in sectors such as electricity, infrastructure, renewable energy and culture. A noteworthy aspect of this collaboration has been the construction of multiple educational institutions. He elaborated, "The Iraqi government has launched an ambitious project targeting the establishment of 8,000 elementary, middle and high schools, and Chinese entities have played a pivotal role in its execution."

This year commemorates the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Iraq. "The bond between China and Iraq has deep historical roots, spanning over two millennia to the times of the Silk Road." Ambassador Said affirmed that he has gained profound insights into the dynamic partnership between the two nations since becoming the ambassador to China. He also emphasized that throughout the pandemic, China provided strong support to the Iraqi people, notably in the realms of vaccine distribution and sanitary laboratory provisions."

Ambassador Said added, "As an ancient civilization, Iraq, with its storied history, vibrant culture and rich tourism resources, warmly welcomes an ever growing number of Chinese travelers. The Iraqi government has made it easy for Chinese visitors to explore Iraq by allowing them to purchase air tickets and obtain visas upon arrival."

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative's inception. In the span of a decade, this initiative has cemented its status as a globally acclaimed platform for international collaboration. Notably, from October 17th to 18th, Beijing hosted the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation.

Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0PJsMaBtmA

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/iraqs-ambassador-to-china-marks-diplomatic-milestones-welcomes-chinese-visitors-with-visa-on-arrival-policy-301968291.html
Mithra and Searchlight Pharma sign DONESTA licensing agreement for Canada

Mithra to receive EUR 1.5 million milestone payout as a result of the signing of the agreement

Additional licensing payout of EUR 15.55 million in regulatory and sales milestones, along with tiered royalties on annual net sales

Searchlight anticipates filing of Canadian regulatory submission for DONESTA  as a treatment for the symptoms of menopause in H1 2024

as a treatment for the symptoms of menopause in H1 2024 Both companies aim to provide innovative solutions to women by partnering on MYRING, ESTELLE, and now DONESTA.

Liege, Belgium, and Montreal, Canada, 26 October 2023 - 07:00 CEST - Mithra (Euronext Brussels: MITRA), a company dedicated to Women's Health, and Searchlight Pharma Inc. ("Searchlight"), a private Canadian-specialty pharmaceutical company, have signed a License and Supply Agreement for the Canadian rights to DONESTA, Mithra's investigational, next generation medicine, containing Estetrol, for the treatment of the symptoms of menopause. The signing of the agreement activates a first milestone payout to Mithra of EUR 1.5 million.

The two companies signed a binding term sheet for a licensing agreement in July 2023. Under the terms of the agreement, Searchlight will have the exclusive sales and marketing rights for DONESTA in Canada. Mithra is expected to receive an additional EUR 15.55 million in regulatory and sales-related milestone payments, plus tiered double-digit royalties on total Canadian annual net sales. Searchlight will be responsible for obtaining and maintaining any regulatory approvals required to market and sell DONESTA in Canada.

David Horn Solomon-- Chief Executive Officer of Mithra said, "The finalization of the DONESTA licensing agreement for Canada is another important milestone as we continue to deliver on Mithra's strategy and unlock the value in our business. We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Searchlight, which is well-positioned to launch the product and provide patients in Canada access to this differentiated-therapeutic candidate. We also continue to have active discussions with multiple parties, as we consider DONESTA marketing partners for the U.S., China, and other key markets."

Searchlight has repeatedly ranked among the top-growth companies in Canada, with one of the largest portfolios of women's health products and associated sales team in the Canadian market. Mithra and Searchlight have a continuing partnership for NEXTSTELLIS the first Estetrol (E4) based combined oral contraceptive product (ESTELLE project), and HALOETTE vaginal contraceptive ring in Canada (MYRING project). NEXTSTELLIS was launched in Canada in Q3 2021, while HALOETTE was launched in Q1 2022.

"We are pleased to continue our relationship with Mithra through the signing of the license agreement for DONESTA," said Mark Nawacki, Searchlight's President and Chief Executive Officer. "This is the third licensing arrangement we have completed with Mithra. Their ongoing confidence in Searchlight confirms that we provide the optimal commercial platform for our partners to ensure that each product gets the support it needs to succeed. An unwavering commitment to improve women's health in Canada has been at the core of Searchlight's mission since its inception. Particularly now, when the attention and focus on the unmet need around the menopause and its impacts on quality of life is being so openly highlighted and discussed in our society, we are proud to be in a position to deliver DONESTA, a new and truly innovative option, to help Canadian women address their unmet needs in managing the symptoms of menopause."

In 2022, Mithra announced topline efficacy results of the DONESTA Phase 3 clinical program, which demonstrated a meaningful reduction in the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms from baseline and compared to placebo, with all co-primary efficacy endpoints met with statistical significance.

In March 2023, Mithra also announced promising topline safety results from the DONESTA Phase 3 trial in North America (C302). The results will support marketing authorization filings scheduled in the U.S. in H2 2023 and in Canada in 2024. Primary safety data are anticipated for Europe in H1 2024.

For more information, please contact:

Mithra Pharmaceuticals SA

Alex Sokolowski, PhD

Head of Investor Relations

investorrelations@mithra.com

+32 (0)4 349 28 22







Searchlight Pharma Inc.

Mark Nawacki

President & CEO

info@searchlightpharma.com (mailto:info@searchlightpharma.com)





Frederique Depraetere

Communications Director

info@mithra.com (mailto:info@mithra.com)

+32 (0)4 349 28 22













About Mithra

Mithra Pharmaceuticals SA (Euronext: MITRA) is a Belgian biopharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming Women's Health by offering new choices through innovation, with a particular focus on contraception and menopause. Mithra's goal is to develop products offering better efficacy, safety and convenience, meeting women's needs throughout their life span. Mithra explores the potential of the unique native estrogen estetrol in a wide range of applications in women health and beyond. After having successfully launched the first estetrol-based product in 2021, the contraceptive pill ESTELLE, Mithra is now focusing on its second product DONESTA, the next-generation hormone therapy. Mithra also offers partners a complete spectrum of solutions from early drug development, clinical batches and commercial manufacturing of complex polymeric products (vaginal ring, implants) and complex liquid injectables and biologicals (vials, pre-filled syringes or cartridges) at its technological platform Mithra CDMO. Active in more than 100 countries around the world, is headquartered in Liege, Belgium.www.mithra.com

ESTELLE, DONESTA, MYRING, HALOETTE, and NEXTSTELLISare registered trademarks of Mithra Pharmaceuticals or one of its affiliates.

About Searchlight Pharma Inc.

Searchlight Pharma Inc., headquartered in Montreal, is a leading Canadian-based specialty healthcare company that executes best-in-class search, acquisition, commercialization, and focused development of innovative and unique specialty healthcare products. Following its acquisition of Miravo Healthcare in March 2023, Searchlight's core promoted products now focus on women's health, dermatology, allergy, pain management and hospital specialty markets, and its team is committed to improving people's lives by bringing the right products to market. Follow Searchlight, learn more about what it does, and get to know its product portfolio at www.searchlightpharma.com.

Important information

The contents of this announcement include statements that are, or may be deemed to be, "forward-looking statements". These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the words "believes", "estimates," "anticipates", "expects", "intends", "may", "will", "plans", "continue", "ongoing", "potential", "predict", "project", "target", "seek" or "should", and include statements the Company makes concerning the intended results of its strategy. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The Company's actual results may differ materially from those predicted by the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.





Subscribe to our mailing list on investors.mithra.com (https://investors.mithra.com/en/contact/subscribe) to receive

press releases by email or follow us on social media:



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Attachment
STOCKHOLM, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- JANUARY 1 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2023

(compared with the corresponding period a year ago)

Net sales increased 16.1% to SEK 130,372m (112,339). Sales growth, including organic sales growth and acquisitions, amounted to 9.8%, of which volume accounted for -3.2%, price/mix for 11.9% and acquisitions for 1.1%.

Operating profit before amortization of acquisition-related intangible assets (EBITA) increased 74% to SEK 12,323m (7,097)

Adjusted EBITA increased 60% to SEK 14,372m (8,974) and the adjusted EBITA margin increased 3.0 percentage points to 11.0% (8.0)

Profit for the period increased 81% to SEK 6,905m (3,818)

Earnings per share increased to SEK 9.58 (4.78) and adjusted earnings per share increased 55% to SEK 13.20 (8.50)

Operating cash flow increased 75% to SEK 11,755m (6,704)

Return on capital employed increased to 11.3% (7.7) and the adjusted return on capital employed increased 3.7 percentage points to 12.9% (9.2)



CEO'S COMMENTS Strong quarter with high profitable growth

Essity delivered strong earnings for the third quarter of 2023. Net sales continued to increase and adjusted EBITA increased by 78% to SEK 5.3bn. The adjusted EBITA margin was higher for the fourth consecutive quarter and amounted to 12.2%. As leading in the growing global hygiene and health market, we are taking further steps toward achieving our Group targets concerning sales growth, return and a reduced environmental footprint.

Higher selling prices, a positive product mix, cost savings and lower costs for raw materials, energy and distribution had a positive impact on earnings. All three business areas developed well with higher sales and higher adjusted EBITA margin. Operating cash flow increased 182% to SEK 7.5bn. Adjusted earnings per share increased to SEK 4.90. The adjusted return on capital employed increased to 14.6%, which means we are well on our way to achieving the return target of >17%.

Our strategic review of ownership in Vinda and Consumer Tissue Private Label Europe, with the aim of reducing Consumer Tissue's share of the company's total sales, is proceeding according to plan.

Higher sales and innovation

Sales growth, including organic sales growth and acquisitions, amounted to 4.6%. Selling prices were higher and the product mix was better. Volumes were lower, mainly due to the company's focus on profitable growth and thereby decisions to implement restructuring measures in Professional Hygiene and to exit contracts with insufficient profitability in Incontinence Products Health Care and Baby Care. We reported very high organic sales growth for Incontinence Products Retail, Feminine Care and Medical Solutions. The earlier acquisitions of, for example, Knix and Hydrofera, have strengthened our offerings and market positions. With improved margins in all of the business areas, we are endeavoring to continue to increase the company's profitable growth. The pace of innovation is high in all categories and we are investing in marketing and sales for higher growth and market shares. During the quarter, we launched value-creating innovations for customers and consumers under the TENA, JOBST, Actimove, Tempo and Plenty brands.

Sustainability at the core

We are striving to achieve our targets in ESG and for net zero emissions by 2050. In France, we have inaugurated the world's first production line that manufactures tissue from used food and beverage cartons. This means Essity recycles more than half of all sorted and recycled food and beverage cartons in France. During the quarter, we began to use electricity from solar cells in the production at our site in the Netherlands.

Summary

We can look back on another quarter with high sales growth and higher EBITA margin, where all business areas made positive contributions through profitable growth and margin improvements. In line with our strategy, we continued to grow in the categories and sales channels with the fastest market growth and highest returns. At the same time, the decisions regarding restructuring in Professional Hygiene and exiting contracts with insufficient profitability in Incontinence Products Health Care and Baby Care, had a negative impact on the sales growth of approximately 2% during the quarter. However, these decisions have improved the structural margin long-term. Going forward, we expect the markets to normalize and through focus on innovation, leading brands, efficiency and sustainability increase the company's profitable growth.

Magnus Groth

President and CEO



FUTURE REPORTS

The year-end report for 2023 will be published on January 25, 2024. Essity's Annual Report for 2023 is intended to be published during the week starting February 26, 2024. In 2024, interim reports will be published on April 25, July 18 and October 24.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Essity's Annual General Meeting will be held in Stockholm, Sweden, on March 21, 2024.

INVITATION TO PRESENTATION OF THE THIRD QUARTER REPORT FOR 2023

In conjunction with publication, a telephone and web presentation will be held at 09:00 CET, where President and CEO Magnus Groth will present and answer questions.

Presentation:

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023

Time: 09:00 CET

Link to web presentation: https://essity.videosync.fi/2023-10-26-q3

Telephone: UK: +44 (0) 33 0551 02 00, USA: +1 786 697 35 01, SWE: +46 (0) 8 505 204 24. Please call in well in advance of the start of the presentation. Indicate: "Essity". The presentation of the interim report will also be broadcast live on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

Stockholm, October 26, 2023

Essity Aktiebolag (publ)



Magnus Groth

President and CEO



For further information, please contact:

Fredrik Rystedt, CFO and Executive Vice President, +46 (0) 8 788 51 31

Sandra Aberg, Vice President Investor Relations, Group Function Finance, +46 (0) 70 564 96 89

Per Lorentz, Vice President Corporate Communications, Group Function Communications, +46 (0) 73 313 30 55



NB:

This interim report has not been reviewed by the company's auditors.



This information is such that Essity Aktiebolag (publ) is obligated to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. This report has been prepared in both Swedish and English versions. In case of variations in the content between the two versions, the Swedish version shall govern. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of Karl Stoltz, Media Relations Director, at 07:00 CET on October 26, 2023.

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/15798/3862328/2386286.pdf The full report (PDF)

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/essity-interim-report-quarter-3-2023-301968339.html
Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V. Provides Comprehensive Progress Report for Ongoing Varoglutamstat Clinical Program Following R&D Event and VIVA-MIND DSMB Dose Decision

Both VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND progressing at 600mg twice daily with oral administration following two independent positive DSMB decisions

Varoglutamstat demonstrates very encouraging safety data with no evidence of drug-related ARIAs at therapeutic dose of 600mg twice daily, a dose demonstrated to result in nearly 90% target occupancy

On track to report final VIVIAD Phase 2b readout in Q1/2024

Commenced preparations for open label extension study to provide long-term treatment option to patients after completion of treatment under VIVIAD or VIVA-MIND

Company to participate at upcoming Jefferies London Healthcare Conference taking place November 14-16, 2023





Halle (Saale) / Munich, Germany, October 26, 2023 - Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V. (Euronext Amsterdam: VVY; NL00150002Q7) (Vivoryon), a clinical stage company focused on the discovery and development of small molecule medicines to modulate the activity and stability of pathologically altered proteins, today provided a comprehensive overview of the progress of the ongoing clinical development of varoglutamstat, an orally administered novel small molecule. Varoglutamstat's mid to late-stage clinical studies, VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND, evaluating its potential to treat early Alzheimer's disease (AD), are comprised of a broad range of key primary and secondary endpoints covering cognition, function and neuronal connectivity.

"The breadth and significance of data collected thus far from varoglutamstat's clinical development program further expands our understanding of early AD pathology and treatment. With independent DSMB dose decisions for both of our ongoing Phase 2 studies across multiple geographies and different titration regimens, varoglutamstat, has been cleared from a safety and tolerability standpoint to proceed with the highest investigated dose of 600mg twice daily. By evaluating varoglutamstat in two parallel clinical studies with varying efficacy endpoints, we can meaningfully support our regulatory strategies and provide a clear picture of the cognitive changes potentially resulting from treatment on study. Utilizing a stepwise methodology for clinical development, we have been able to create a statistically robust trial setting in VIVIAD with the intent of VIVA-MIND designed to confirm the findings of VIVIAD," said Frank Weber, M.D., CEO of Vivoryon. "Building upon the positive findings from the SAPHIR Phase 2a study, we have meticulously designed VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND, grounded in the understanding that N3pE-Abeta presence has been identified in and beyond plaques, in the synaptic space of neurons and within their cell walls. Varoglutamstat has shown convincing results of neuronal recovery after only 12 weeks of treatment, which supports our belief in the advantages of this mechanism of action to substantially reduce the production of N3pE-Abeta, rather than increase the clearance once synthesized and deposited in the plaque. Together, SAPHIR, VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND culminate in an immensely comprehensive Phase 2 clinical development program in early AD conducted so far with a planned total of nearly 800 patients. The program is further supported by varoglutamstat's Fast Track designation granted by the FDA. Vivoryon is committed to improving the daily lives of patients with early AD and their families and we look forward to our imminent, final study readout from VIVIAD in the first quarter of 2024 at which point we intend to share final topline data, with the full dataset to be presented at a subsequent medical meeting."





Varoglutamstat Clinical Program

The clinical development program of varoglutamstat in early AD is based on a strong scientific rationale rooted in Vivoryon's research and discovery activities in conjunction with support from leading academic partners and scientific organizations worldwide. Varoglutamstat is designed to prevent N3pE-Abeta formation, rather than aiming to clear existing plaques, making it an intervention upstream of other approaches such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Through a second mode of action, varoglutamstat also modulates neuroinflammation via the CCL2 pathway, which, in turn, has an additional positive impact on tau pathology. Preclinical data supports the N3pE-Abeta hypothesis with the following key highlights:

Pyroglutamate-modified Abeta (N3pE-Abeta) is a trigger of toxicity and disease pathology in AD and there is a strong rationale for targeting N3pE-Abeta to create a tailored AD therapy.

Experimental data show that N3pE-Abeta has very different physio-chemical properties compared to other Abeta variants, including its potential to form highly toxic oligomers and fibrils together with non-modified Abeta variants.

Strong preclinical evidence supports the hypothesis that reducing N3pE-Abeta formation by inhibiting the enzyme QPCT, has the potential to change the course of progression of AD.





Varoglutamstat is a differentiated investigational small-molecule medicine in development to treat early AD. As an orally administered treatment which can conveniently be taken at home, varoglutamstat holds significant advantages in ease of use by patients. Importantly, in line with its mode of action, safety data to-date indicate that varoglutamstat could potentially come without comparable risks of brain swelling and bleeding (ARIA) seen with amyloid lowering mAbs. It is currently being investigated in two large Phase 2 studies, VIVIAD (NCT04498650) in Europe and VIVA-MIND (NCT03919162) in the U.S. The two studies taken together enable a deep and robust understanding of the effect of varoglutamstat on cognition and daily function of patients with early AD, capturing a range of key primary and secondary efficacy endpoints. In addition, VIVALONG (the open label extension study) will allow for the potential confirmation of the long-term safety and health outcome benefits of varoglutamstat after patients have completed the double blinded studies VIVIAD and VIVA-MIND. The study will also help to generate relevant pharmacoeconomic data.





VIVIAD

VIVIAD (NCT04498650) is a state-of-the-art Phase 2b study being conducted in Europe and is designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of varoglutamstat in 259 subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and mild AD. The primary endpoint, which is a combination of three elements of the Cogstate neuropsychological test battery (NTB), called "Cogstate 3-item scale," includes Identification, Detection and One Back tests and evaluates attention and working memory domains over 48-96 weeks. Key secondary efficacy endpoints include in hierarchical order: Cogstate Brief Battery (CBB, 4-item scale), the full Cogstate NTB (8-item scale), the Amsterdam Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Questionnaire (A-IADL-Q), and electroencephalogram (EEG).

The objective of the Cogstate 3-item scale (Identification, Detection, One Back) as the primary endpoint is to confirm the positive findings on working memory and attention observed in the SAPHIR study.

The CBB (3-item scale plus One Card Learning), which is the first secondary endpoint, is marketed as Cognigram and has approval as a medical device by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and multiple other regulatory authorities to assess cognition in early AD patients.

The full Cogstate NTB (8-item scale) enables an assessment of outcome on various cognitive domains.

Th A-IADL-Q is a fully validated and sensitive scale to measure the impairment of daily function in patients with early AD.

The EEG captures change in large scale neuronal and synaptic activity. Theta power has been selected as a key secondary endpoint because it is well correlated to working memory and has been shown to increase (worsen) in AD.





Formal testing for significance will begin with the Cogstate NTB 3-item scale and continue until the first endpoint does not show a p value of <=0.05. Furthermore, there will be additional exploratory analysis for domains such as working, executive and episodic memory and language via the Winterlight Labs speech assessment. In sum, the analysis provides a detailed performance assessment of varoglutamstat across key relevant cognitive performance parameters.

The end of the active treatment phase in VIVIAD is estimated to occur by year end 2023, which is then followed by a period of safety follow up visits and rigorous data and statistical analysis. Vivoryon remains on track to share final topline data in the first quarter of 2024 and the full dataset at a subsequent medical meeting.





VIVA-MIND

VIVA-MIND (NCT03919162) is an ongoing Phase 2 study for varoglutamstat being conducted in the U.S., complementary to Vivoryon's VIVIAD Phase 2b study being conducted in Europe. VIVA-MIND seeks to enroll 180 patients with early AD into the Phase 2a adaptive dose finding portion and enroll a further 234 patients in the Phase 2b portion of the study.

In July 2023, the Company announced that the first cohort of the study was fully randomized as planned and is now recruiting participants into the second cohort with 21 sites open across the U.S. The primary endpoint of the study is evaluating Clinical Dementia Rating scale Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) over a 72-week treatment period. In addition to evaluating safety, key secondary efficacy endpoints include ABC score, quantitative EEG-relative theta wave power, FAQ (Functional Activities Questionaire) Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog-13) and Neuropsychiatric Inventory.

While the Cogstate NTB applied in VIVIAD and the CDR-SB used in VIVA-MIND are distinct and very different scales with each having a specific strength, there has been a positive correlation established between both scales. 1

Recently, Vivoryon shared a positive DSMB dose decision recommending that the highest dose of varoglutamstat 600mg twice daily (BID) be selected for the remainder of the trial, based on a quarterly safety review and subsequent analysis of treatment-emergent adverse events of special interest (AESI) pertaining to skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders and hepatobiliary disorders, as well as target occupancy and plasma pharmacokinetic (PK) data.

With VIVA-MIND, the Company has confirmed the feasibility of an up-titration protocol to the final dose of 600mg BID which is accelerated compared to the ongoing VIVIAD Phase 2b study.





VIVALONG

In July 2023, Vivoryon announced that it commenced preparations for an open-label extension (OLE) study, now termed "VIVALONG," to provide a long-term treatment option to patients after completion of treatment under the VIVIAD or VIVA-MIND protocol.

The launch of VIVALONG is contingent on the outcome of VIVIAD.

Pending VIVIAD results, Vivoryon plans to assess the long-term treatment of varoglutamstat including positron emission tomography (PET) imaging and other key safety and efficacy endpoints.





###

1 Maruff et al.; BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology 2013





About Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V.

Vivoryon is a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on developing innovative small molecule-based medicines. Driven by our passion for ground-breaking science and innovation, we strive to change the lives of patients in need suffering from severe diseases. We leverage our in-depth expertise in understanding post-translational modifications to develop medicines that modulate the activity and stability of proteins which are altered in disease settings. Beyond our lead program, varoglutamstat, which is in Phase 2 clinical development to treat Alzheimer's disease, we have established a solid pipeline of orally available small molecule inhibitors for various indications including cancer, inflammatory diseases and fibrosis. www.vivoryon.com







Vivoryon Forward Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, those regarding the business strategy, management plans and objectives for future operations of the Vivoryon Therapeutics N.V. (the "Company"), estimates and projections with respect to the market for the Company's products and forecasts and statements as to when the Company's products may be available. Words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "intend," "may," "plan," "project," "predict," "should" and "will" and similar expressions as they relate to the Company are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance; rather they are based on the Management's current expectations and assumptions about future events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. The forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties and other factors could materially adversely affect the outcome and financial effects of the plans and events described herein. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements and from expectations. As a result, no undue reliance should be placed on such forward-looking statements. This press release does not contain risk factors. Certain risk factors that may affect the Company's future financial results are discussed in the published annual financial statements of the Company. This press release, including any forward-looking statements, speaks only as of the date of this press release. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any information or forward-looking statements contained herein, save for any information required to be disclosed by law.





For more information, please contact:

Investor Contact

Stern IR

Julie Seidel

Tel: +1 212-698-8684

Email: julie.seidel@sternir.com



Media Contact

Trophic Communications

Valeria Fisher

Tel: +49 175 8041816

Email: vivoryon@trophic.eu


Press Release

Atos reports third-quarter revenue

2023 full-year outlook confirmed

Q3 2023 Group revenue of 2,590m, down -3.0% on an organic basis

Eviden up +2.3% on an organic basis on solid contribution from Big Data and Digital Security

up +2.3% on an organic basis on solid contribution from Big Data and Digital Security Tech Foundations down -7.2% on an organic basis, with core revenue down -4.9% driven by portfolio rationalisation

Order entry of 2.2bn up +10% compared with the prior year, book-to-bill ratio of 84% compared with 71% in Q3 2022

9-months 2023 Group revenue of 8,138m, up +0.6% on an organic basis with Eviden up +5.5% and Tech Foundations down -3.5%

Paris, France, October 26, 2023 - Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, high-performance computing and information technology infrastructure, today announces its revenue for the third quarter of 2023.

Yves Bernaert, Chief Executive Officer of Atos, said: "In Q3 we continued to focus on our operations and the delivery of our separation and transformation plans.

Eviden growth has been driven by its activities in Digital Security, Big Data including Generative AI. In High-Performance Computing, we signed the very first exascale supercomputer contract in Europe.

Tech Foundations continues to execute on its transformation plan including reducing its activities in non-core areas.

I would like to thank our talented employees for their commitment and dedication to serving our clients and for delivering innovative solutions that address their business needs."

Organic revenue -3.0% in Q3

In  million Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Variation Var.

at cst. curr. Var. organic Eviden 1,217 1,278 -4.8% -1.8% +2.3% Tech Foundations 1,373 1,540 -10.8% -8.2% -7.2%1 Group revenue 2,590 2,818 -8.1% -5.3% -3.0% 1: Core business revenue: -4.9%

Group revenue was 2,590 million in Q3 2023, down -5.3% on a constant currency basis. On an organic basis, revenue was down -3.0% as positive performance at Eviden was offset by Tech Foundations. Scope effects, mainly related to the divestment of Atos Italia completed in Q2 2023, accounted for -2.3% of the reported revenue decrease. Foreign exchange was a headwind of -2.8%, mainly reflecting the weakening of US dollar.

Eviden reported +2.3% organic revenue growth in Q3, primarily driven by strong results in Big Data and Digital Security. Digital Security continued its trend of high organic revenue growth, driven by next-generation products and services. High single-digit growth in digital in Europe, driven by demand for application development and modernization, was offset by a decrease in the US as clients are taking longer to decide on new business awards.

Tech Foundations recorded a -4.9% decrease in revenues for its core activities, which includes infrastructure, private cloud & platforms, digital workplace, and professional services. The business continues to reduce its activities in non-core areas including hardware and software resale and BPO. The company recently sold its UCC business which had been a declining non-core asset.

Commercial activity

In Q3 2023, order entry was 2.2 billion, up 10% YoY, with a book-to-bill ratio of 84%, compared with 71% in Q3 2022.

Eviden reported a book-to-bill ratio of 80%, in line with the prior year. Order entry reflects ongoing digital activities from smaller, low-risk contracts and short-term bookings with faster revenue yields. During the quarter, Eviden signed Generative AI contracts with large clients in the retail and technology sectors. In addition, Eviden signed the very first exascale supercomputer contract in Europe, a key milestone that will extend Europe's scientific excellence and industrial leadership. The company recorded an initial tranche of that contract in the quarter.

Tech Foundations recorded a book-to-bill ratio of 88%, up compared with 58% in Q3 2022. The business signed a new logo in the quarter with a major US telecom company and gained a significant new contract with a leading utility company in Europe. The business continues to maintain its strong retention rate track record with existing customers.

The Group's full backlog was  18.6 billion at the end of September 2023 compared with 19.0 billion at end of H1 adjusted for disposals.

The full qualified pipeline amounted to  6.0 billion compared with 6.8 billion at end of H1 adjusted for disposals.

9-month organic revenue growth of 0.6%

In  million 9-month 2023 9-month 2022 Variation Var.

at cst. Curr. Var. organic Eviden 3,842 3,817 +0.7% +2.2% +5.5% Tech Foundations 4,296 4,564 -5.9% -4.4% -3.5%* Group revenue 8,138 8,381 -2.9% -1.4% +0.6% * core business revenue: -1.9%

Group revenue was 8,138 million over 9-month 2023 up 0.6% organically, reflecting growth in Eviden of +5.5% compared with the prior year, offsetting the decline in Tech Foundations of -3.5%. Scope effects accounted for -2.0% from the divestiture of non-core assets. Foreign exchange was negative -1.5%, reflecting the weakening of the US dollar.

2023 full-year outlook

Atos confirms its 2023 full-year outlook.

Group Eviden Tech Foundations Organic revenue growth 0.0% to +2.0% Acceleration

vs. 2022 Managed decrease

Core stabilization

Portfolio rationalization Operating margin

(% of revenue) 4% to 5% Improvement

vs. 2022 Positive territory Free Cash-Flow c. -1bn FY

Update on contemplated sale of Tech Foundations to EPEI group

On October 16, 2023, Atos provided an update on the contemplated sale of Tech Foundation to EPEI Group. This press release can be accessed at the following link.

In this press release, the Group indicated that the Shareholders' Meeting to approve the contemplated transaction and capital raise is now anticipated to take place in early Q2 2024.

Human resources

Total headcount was 104,856 at the end of September 2023, down -2.0%. On a trailing twelve-month basis, attrition rate was at 16% versus 18% at the end of June. During the quarter the company hired 3,630 employees. 5,800 employees have left the company as a result of attrition or restructuring.

Analyst and investor conference call

Atos Management invites analysts and investors to a conference call on the Group 2023 third quarter revenue, on Thursday, October 26, 2023, at 08:00 am (CET - Paris).

You can join the webcast of the conference:

via the following link: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n9ev3qtg (https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n9ev3qtg)

by telephone with the dial-in, 10 minutes prior the starting time. Please note that if you want to join the webcast by telephone, you must register in advance of the conference using the following link:

https://register.vevent.com/register/BIaccf86590a5e4affaef96a503af2cefb

Upon registration, you will be provided with Participant Dial-In Numbers, a Direct Event Passcode and a unique Registrant ID.

During the 10 minutes prior to the beginning of the call, you will need to use the conference access information provided in the email received upon registration.

After the conference, a replay of the webcast will be available on atos.net, in the Investors section.

Forthcoming event

February 29, 2024 (Before Market Opening) Full-year 2023 results

Contacts

Investor contact: investors@atos.net

Individual shareholders contact: 0805 65 00 75

Media: globalprteam@atos.net

Appendix

Q3 2023 revenue by Regional Business Unit

In  million Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Variation Var. at

cst. curr. Var. organic Americas 621 776 -20.0% -13.1% -13.1% Northern Europe & APAC 769 801 -4.2% -2.5% -2.5% Central Europe 627 638 -1.6% -1.3% -0.1% Southern Europe 501 544 -7.8% -7.8% +3.0% Others & Global structures 73 60 ns ns ns Group revenue 2,590 2,818 -8.1% +2.3% -3.0%

Americas revenue decreased by -13.1% on an organic basis in Q3 due to delay in contract awards, lower software and volume cloud licensing and large HPC contract completion in Q3-2022. Foreign exchange impact was -7% resulting from a strengthening euro.

Northern Europe & APAC revenue decreased by -2.5% on an organic basis but was effectively flat on proforma basis excluding BPO contract in UK. Eviden grew double-digit in Q3. Eviden order entry was near record Q3 levels on upsell/cross-sell business but experienced delays in larger new logo deals. Order entry in Tech Foundations was strong in UKI and BTN on back of strategic competitive renewals.

Central Europe revenue organic growth was mostly flat compared with the previous year as growth at Eviden offset a decrease at Tech Foundations. Order entry was robust, with the initial tranche of the exascale supercomputer contract, supported by cross-sell and upsell activity in digital.

Southern Europe recorded robust +3.0% organic growth. Growth was driven by Eviden's HPC activities, notably through the delivery of a major contract in Spain. Digital services, particularly consulting, data and platform, were strong in this quarter. Landmark contracts in the fields of health and manufacturing were also successfully carried out.

Others and global structures encompass Middle East, Africa, Major Events as well as two cost centers: the Group's global delivery centers and global structures.

Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates reconciliation

In  million Q3 2023 Q3 2022 % change Statutory revenue 2,590 2,818 -8.1% Exchange rates effect -83 Revenue at constant exchange rates 2,590 2,735 -5.3% Scope effect -68 Exchange rates effect on acquired/disposed perimeters +3 Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates 2,590 2,670 -3.0%

Currency impact was -83 million, primarily from a weakening dollar.

Scope effects amounted to -65 million. They mainly related to divesture of Atos Italia and the exit of Russia operations in 2022.

About Atos

Atos is a global leader in digital transformation with c.105,000 employees and annual revenue of c.  11 billion. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, the Group provides tailored end-to-end solutions for all industries in 69 countries. A pioneer in decarbonization services and products, Atos is committed to a secure and decarbonized digital for its clients. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

Disclaimers

This document contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including references, concerning the Group's expected growth and profitability in the future which may significantly impact the expected performance indicated in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are linked to factors out of the control of the Company and not precisely estimated, such as market conditions or competitor's behaviors. Any forward-looking statements made in this document are statements about Atos's beliefs and expectations and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Atos's plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or synergies, or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Actual events or results may differ from those described in this document due to a number of risks and uncertainties that are described within the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF) on April 21, 2023 under the registration number D.23-0321. Atos does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law. This document does not contain or constitute an offer of Atos's shares for sale or an invitation or inducement to invest in Atos's shares in France, the United States of America or any other jurisdiction.

This document includes information on specific transactions that shall be considered as projects only. In particular, any decision relating to the information or projects mentioned in this document and their terms and conditions will only be made after the ongoing in-depth analysis considering tax, legal, operational, finance, HR and all other relevant aspects have been completed and will be subject to general market conditions and other customary conditions, including governance bodies and shareholders' approval as well as appropriate processes with the relevant employee representative bodies in accordance with applicable laws.

Revenue organic growth is presented at constant scope and exchange rates.

Regional Business Units include Americas including North America (USA, Canada, Guatemala and Mexico) and South America (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Uruguay, and Peru), Northern Europe and APAC including Northern Europe (United Kingdom & Ireland, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Belarus, Finland, Luxembourg, The Netherlands and Sweden) and Asia-Pacific (Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand), Central Europe (Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Switzerland), Southern Europe (France, Andorra, Spain, Portugal, and Italy) and Rest of the World including Middle East & Africa (Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Gabon, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritius, Morocco, Qatar, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Turkey and UAE), Major Events and Global Delivery Centers.

Attachment
The independent Data Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB), after careful review of safety, efficacy, and protocol adherence, has unanimously recommended that the trial continues without modification.

The DSMB concluded on a positive benefit/risk ratio based on a good safety profile and positive preliminary efficacy results with an Overall Response Rate higher than pre-defined protocol assumptions.

Regulatory News:

MaaT Pharma(EURONEXT: MAAT the "Company"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company and a leader in the development of Microbiome Ecosystem TherapiesTM (MET) dedicated to enhancing survival for patients with cancer, today announced that the DSMB unanimously recommended that the open-label, single arm pivotal Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating MaaT013 in acute Graft-versus-Host Disease (aGvHD), named ARES, continues without modification. The Overall Response Rate (ORR) was superior to pre-defined protocol assumptions. Therefore, the DSMB concluded that the benefit/risk ratio with "high efficacy and low toxicity" was favorable in this patient population.

"We are delighted to report significant progress in the development of therapeutic solutions for patients battling severe acute GvHD. Modulation of the microbiota is increasingly proving to be a breakthrough in the oncology fieldstated Herve Affagard, CEO and co-founder of MaaT Pharma.

The DSMB is responsible for assessing the benefit/risk ratio with a particular focus on safety that is continuously reviewed throughout the course of the study. As per protocol, the DSMB met to review a specific safety and efficacy data analysis at Day 28, after inclusion of 30 patients. The recruitment of patients in the ARES trial has continued while the DSMB reviewed the data. The conclusions of the DSMB review are as follow:

Safety validation: No safety concerns were identified to date, based on the data from 30 patients reviewed. MaaT013 was well-tolerated, and the adverse event profile was consistent with the previously observed safety profile of MaaT013 (170+ patients treated to date within Phase 2 study and in the ongoing Early Access Program) and with patients with aGvHD, in general. In addition, infections were specifically monitored and the DSMB concluded that no increased infectious risk was observed, and no fatal events were attributed to MaaT013.

No safety concerns were identified to date, based on the data from 30 patients reviewed. MaaT013 was well-tolerated, and the adverse event profile was consistent with the previously observed safety profile of MaaT013 (170+ patients treated to date within Phase 2 study and in the ongoing Early Access Program) and with patients with aGvHD, in general. In addition, infections were specifically monitored and the DSMB concluded that no increased infectious risk was observed, and no fatal events were attributed to MaaT013. Efficacy assessment: The efficacy profile of MaaT013 was seen by the independent group of experts to be higher than expected in the protocol assumptions, signaling potential benefits for treatment-refractory aGvHD patients. The results from this prospective pivotal clinical trial confirm and strengthen previous results in a comparable patient population in the Early Access Program of MaaT013.

The efficacy profile of MaaT013 was seen by the independent group of experts to be higher than expected in the protocol assumptions, signaling potential benefits for treatment-refractory aGvHD patients. The results from this prospective pivotal clinical trial confirm and strengthen previous results in a comparable patient population in the Early Access Program of MaaT013. Positive benefit/risk ratio: The DSMB's comprehensive evaluation concluded that the benefit/risk ratio in the Phase 3 trial was favorable with "high efficacy and low toxicity".

Next milestones for the ARES Phase 3 trial include:

Mid-2024, primary endpoint evaluation: Gastrointestinal Overall Response Rate (GI-ORR) at day 28

Mid-2025, secondary endpoint evaluation: One-year Overall Survival

As a reminder, ARES is a pivotal Phase 3 multicenter, international, open-label, single-arm study assessing the safety and efficacy of MaaT013 in 75 patients with Grade II-IV GI-aGvHD who are refractory to steroids and are resistant or are intolerant to ruxolitinib. To learn more about the study, visit www.clinicaltrials.gov.

About MaaT Pharma

MaaT Pharma, a leading clinical-stage biotechnology company, has established a complete approach to restoring patient-microbiome symbiosis in oncology. Committed to treating cancer and graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), a serious complication of allogeneic stem cell transplantation, MaaT Pharma initiated an open-label, single-arm Phase 3 clinical trial in patients with acute GvHD, building on the positive results of its Phase 2 proof-of-concept. Its powerful discovery and analysis platform, gutPrint, enables the identification of novel disease targets, evaluation of drug candidates, and identification of biomarkers for microbiome-related conditions. The company's Microbiome Ecosystem Therapies are produced through a standardized cGMP manufacturing and quality control process to safely deliver the full diversity of the microbiome in liquid and oral formulations. MaaT Pharma benefits from the commitment of world-leading scientists and established relationships with regulators to support the integration of the use of microbiome therapies in clinical practice. MaaT Pharma is listed on Euronext Paris (ticker: MAAT).

Forward-looking Statements

All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release about future events are subject to (i) change without notice and (ii) factors beyond the Company's control. 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" and other words and terms of similar meaning or the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control that could cause the Company's actual results or performance to be materially different from the expected results or performance expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025501038/en/

Contacts:

MaaT Pharma Investor Relations

Guilhaume DEBROAS, Ph.D.

Head of Investor Relations

+33 6 16 48 92 50

invest@maat-pharma.com



MaaT Pharma Media Relations

Pauline RICHAUD

Senior PR Corporate Communications Manager

+33 6 14 06 45 92

media@maat-pharma.com



Trophic Communications Corporate Communications

Charlotte SPITZ or

Stephanie MAY

+49 171 351 2733

maat@trophic.eu
 Encouraging high-level results for first-in-human trial of HNSA-5487

 Well attended Hansa-sponsored symposium at ESOT focusing on first patient experiences

 Dr. Hitto Kaufmann appointed new CSO

LUND, Sweden, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hansa Biopharma, the pioneer in immunomodulatory enzyme technology for rare IgG mediated diseases, today announced its business update and interim report for January to September 2023.

Highlights for the third quarter of 2023

Total Q3 revenue of SEK 22.8m including SEK 16.5m in product sales and SEK 5.7m under our agreement with Sarepta

Several new agreements secured with leading transplantation centers in key markets such as U.K. and Germany. Ongoing patient identification through organ allocation systems such as Eurotransplant, which should translate into increased commercial sales in Q4 2023, as previously guided.

European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) Congress in Athens: Held well-attended Hansa-sponsored symposium ' Crossing DSA Barriers to Transplant Today' focusing on patient experiences with Idefirix.

focusing on patient experiences with Idefirix. First patients treated with imlifidase in an investigator-initiated Phase 2 study in ANCA-associated vasculitis.

Dr. Hitto Kaufmann appointed Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of Hansa Biopharma responsible for all research, early development, translational and manufacturing activities.

Great Place to Work certification received for the fourth consecutive year. The 2023 certification is based on a company-wide survey completed with 100% participation from Hansa employees.

Clinical pipeline update

Anti-GBM disease: Positive momentum in the pivotal phase 3 study in anti-GBM disease, five patients were enrolled during Q3, while number of active sites expanded from 12 to 25 in the past quarter. A total of 9 patients out of a target of 50 patients have been enrolled across centers in the U.S., U.K. and EU.

U.S. ConfIdeS trial: As of October 26, 2023, 87 patients have been enrolled at 16 centers in this pivotal U.S. open label, randomized, controlled trial of imlifidase in kidney transplant. Despite an acceleration in the number of patients being randomized this summer following the initiation of more centers, the allocation of organs to patients on the study remain highly variable and difficult to predict. Randomization is expected to complete by mid 2024 with, a BLA submission expected in 2025.

ANCA-associated vasculitis: An investigator-initiated single center, single arm study was launched in the first half 2023 by Charite Universitatsmedizin in Berlin. The study is targeting 10 patients with pulmonary haemorrhage due to severe ANCA-associated vasculitis. As of October 26, three patients have been treated with imlifidase.

Events after closing period

On October 9, 2023, Hansa announced first high-level results from the first-in-human trial for HNSA-5487. Data showed the molecule was safe and well tolerated with fast and complete depletion of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies observed in all subjects with increasing doses.

On October 17, 2023, Hansa announced results from the 5-year long-term study demonstrating 90% patient survival and 82% graft survival. The 5-year extended pooled analysis is a continuation of the analysis at 3-years of crossmatch positive only patients published in the American Journal of Transplantation.

Financial summary

SEKm, unless otherwise stated - unaudited Q3 2023 Q3 2022 9M 2023 9M 2022 Revenue 22.8 67.1 83.7 123.8 SG&A expenses (111.7) (83.5) (344.5) (254.2) R&D expenses (95.6) (90.4) (303.1) (254.0) Loss from operation (202.2) (139.5) (613.0) (442.3) Loss for the period (250.7) (154.0) (707.3) (462.5) Net cash used in operation (193.8) (128.7) (582.7) (392.6) Cash and short-term investments 908.2 1,215.3 908.2 1,215.3 Shareholders' equity (62.2) 344.8 (62.2) 344.8 EPS before and after dilution (SEK) (4,78) (3.45) (13.49) (10.39) Number of outstanding shares 52,443,962 44,588,118 52,443,962 44,588,118 Weighted avg. number of shares before and after dilution 52,443,962 44,588,118 52,443,962 44,517,974 Number of employees at the end of the period 168 145 168 145

Sren Tulstrup, President and CEO of Hansa Biopharma, comments;

"Our commitment to creating paradigm shifts in clinical care resulting in significantly better patient outcomes remains strong. Ongoing progress with the commercialisation of Idefirix continues, and our pipeline of drug candidates, underpinned by exciting science, is progressing steadily.

We continue to see steady growth in the number of key transplant centers readied for utilisation of Idefirix and patients identified and waitlisted for desensitization across Europe. We are also encouraged by the fact that a growing number of transplant centers now have experience with Idefirix and that positive first outcomes have led to repeat usage in a number of hospitals. Idefirix is a disrupter in the kidney transplant and desensitization treatment ecosystem requiring significant changes in both transplant protocols and organ allocation systems. With this in mind, the adaptation of new approaches to care takes time. While, given the significant unmet need and the demonstrated ability of Idefirix to enable potentially lifesaving kidney transplants, we would like to see a faster uptake, we are pleased with the progress of the launch against key launch metrics and in particular seeing centers gain valuable clinical experience through both the commercially available product and the Post Approval Efficacy Study utilising imlifidase as a desensitization therapy for highly sensitized patients.

During the third quarter we have secured several new agreements with leading transplant centers in Europe and do expect this to translate into increased commercial sales in the coming period, supported by new markets such as U.K., Germany and Belgium where patient identification is ongoing as organs become available.

On September 16-17 the European Society of Organ Transplantation (ESOT) hosted its annual International Transplant Congress in Athens. At the congress, a Hansa-sponsored symposium 'Crossing DSA Barriers to Transplant Today' was attended by more than 600 members of the transplantation clinical community - validating the continued interest in Idefirix as a transformative desensitization therapy. The symposium featured KOLs from multiple centers with clinical experience utilizing Idefirix in kidney transplant patients. In some instances, the KOLs had transplanted multiple patients using Idefirix.

I am also pleased to see positive data from our 5-year long follow-up study further supporting the clinical benefit of imlidase in kidney transplantation. Data five years out demonstrate graft survival of 82%, which is in line with outcomes seen at 3-years post-transplant.

In the U.S. we continue to carry out key initiatives to accelerate randomization in the pivotal phase 3 trial, ConfIdeS, in kidney transplantation. Despite several new centers being activated in the last 4-6 months and an acceleration in the number of patients being randomized over the summer, the allocation of organs to patients on the study remain highly variable and difficult to predict. We are expecting randomization to complete by mid 2024 with a BLA submission expected in 2025.

In anti-GBM disease, we have recently seen good uptake in patient enrolment in the global pivotal phase 3 study, with nine patients enrolled out of a target of 50 patients, while our newly started investigator-initiated phase 2 study in ANCA-associated vasculitis now has three patients enrolled out of a target of ten patients.

We are also very pleased to report encouraging high-level data from the first-in-human trial for HNSA-5487, the lead candidate from our NiceR program focused on developing next generation IgG-cleaving enzymes. Results demonstrated the molecule was safe and well tolerated with fast and complete depletion of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies observed at increasing doses in all subjects. These data are highly encouraging as we continue to explore the potential for our next generation enzymes and better understand how this powerful new enzyme could benefit patients with diseases where a prolonged IgG-free window is needed and where repeat dosing would be beneficial.

Further, I am happy to welcome Dr. Hitto Kaufmann as Hansa's new Chief Scientific Officer (CSO), effective December 1, 2023. Dr. Kaufmann brings more than 20 years' experience in R&D from both large pharma and small biotech.

Last, I want to highlight that Hansa Biopharma AB was recently certified as a Great Place to Work for the fourth consecutive year. This certification reflects our successful efforts over the past years to not only build and maintain a high-performance team, but also to create a rewarding and stimulating workplace for our employees, enabling us to continue to attract and retain the very best people in the industry.

I look forward to keeping you updated on our continued progress, with several upcoming important milestones to be achieved across our platform and franchises in the coming period, as we continue our efforts to develop new, transformative medicines for patients suffering from serious, rare immunologic diseases."

Upcoming milestones and news flow

Q4 2023 GBS Phase 2: First data readout

Q4 2023 AMR Phase 2: Full data readout

Q4 2023 Sarepta DMD pre-treatment Phase 1b: Commence clinical study

2024 GBS Phase 2: Outcome of the comparative efficacy analysis to IGOS data

2024 Genethon Crigler-Najjar Phase 1/2: Initiate clinical study with imlifidase prior to GNT-0003

2024 HNSA-5487 (Lead NiceR candidate): Further analysis around endpoints to be completed in 2024 incl. lead indication

2024 U.S. ConfIdeS (Kidney tx) Phase 3: Complete randomization

2025 U.S. ConfIdeS (Kidney tx) Phase 3: BLA submission

Updated financial calendar 2023/2024

Feb 2, 2024 Full-year Report for January - December 2023

Mar 20, 2024 Annual Report 2023

Apr 17, 2024 Interim Report for January - March 2024

July 17, 2024 Half-year Report January - June 2024

Oct 23, 2024 Interim Report for January - September 2024

Conference call details

Hansa Biopharma will host a telephone conference today Thursday, October 26, 2023, 14:00 CET / 8:00am EST.

The event will be hosted by Hansa Biopharma's CEO, Sren Tulstrup, CCO and U.S. President, Matthew Shaulis and CFO, Donato Spota. The presentation will be held in English.

Slides used in the presentation will be live on the company website during the call under "Events & Presentations" and will also be made available online after the call.

To participate in the telephone conference, please use the dial-in details provided below:

Sweden: +46 31 311 51 03

United Kingdom: +44 203 769 6819

United States: +1 646 787 0157

Participant access code: 765135

The webcast will be available on https://hansabiopharma.eventcdn.net/events/q3-2023-conference-call

The interim report and latest investor presentation can be downloaded from our web:

Interim report January to September 2023 https://www.hansabiopharma.com/investors/financial-reports/

Investor road show presentation Q3, 2023 https://www.hansabiopharma.com/investors/presentations/

This is information that Hansa Biopharma AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the Securities Markets Act.

CONTACT:

For further information, please contact:

Klaus Sindahl, VP Head of Investor Relations

M: +46 (0) 709-298 269

E: klaus.sindahl@hansabiopharma.com

Stephanie Kenney, VP Global Corporate Affairs

M: +1 (484) 319 2802

E: stephanie.kenney@hansabiopharma.com

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1219/3862410/2386642.pdf 20231026 HNSA - Q3 2023 Quarterly Report ENG BoD FINAL

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/hansa-biopharma-interim-report-january-september-2023-301968390.html
GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 134th China Import and Export Fair ("Canton Fair", "the Fair"), held in Guangzhou from October 15th to November 4th, has successfully attracted a total number of 129,000 overseas buyers, with nearly 70,000 come from countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, over 65% increase over the same period last session. The three-phase exhibition featured 650 exhibitors from 43 nations and regions in its International Pavilion, around 60% of whom were from Belt and Road countries, earning high praise from both suppliers and buyers.

"Ninety percent of our company's external purchases are sourced from China, with guaranteed quality, delivery, and price. We have immense confidence in China's manufacturing capabilities," stated Sia Huaping, Chairman of SARAWAK CHINA TRADES IMPORTERS & EXPORTERS ASSOCIATION."This time, more than 80 members of our chamber are actively attending the fair."

The Canton Fair has become a hub for distinguished companies like Guangzhou Tiger Head Battery Group Co., Ltd., Guangdong Xinbao Electrical Appliances Holdings Co., Ltd. ("Xinbao"), and other prestigious firms who have set their sights on the flourishing "Belt and Road" market. Xinbao, in particular, has astutely designated a special exhibition section at the fair, meticulously tailored to cater to the specific needs of buyers originating from countries and regions deeply invested in the "Belt and Road" initiative. This sagacious move has successfully enticed a significant number of buyers seeking informative consultation.

Zhang Yifei, Xinbao's adept overseas project director, excitedly shared, "Aside from successfully finalizing numerous deals at the Canton Fair, our company is also actively expanding its international production bases, with the Indonesian factory now in full swing."

Moreover, Altinboga Gas Equipments, a prominent Turkish valve manufacturer, made a remarkable appearance at the Canton Fair International Pavilion, presenting an extensive selection of over 85 product categories. Hakan Yairal, the skilled foreign trade manager of Althinboga Gas Equipments, expressed, "The Canton Fair serves as our paramount exhibition, providing us with unmatched opportunities to negotiate with buyers from around the world."

The relationship between China and enterprises from countries along the "Belt and Road" has grown stronger at the Canton Fair, resulting in mutual benefits and positive outcomes. For more information about the 134th Canton Fair, please visit the official website of the Canton Fair https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/posts/646531331412942848, or contact: caiyiyi@cantonfair.org.cn.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258245/image_1.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/seizing-global-potential-134th-canton-fair-expands-belt-and-road-business-opportunities-301968398.html
Gold Coast, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - In response to ongoing economic challenges, The Freedom State steps forward with its newest range of affordable yet trendsetting fashion items. This timely unveiling comes at a juncture where the online fashion world grapples with unprecedented pressures.

The Freedom State is broadening their appeal to budget conscious buyers



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8846/184643_656961c88488fb8b_001full.jpg

During an era when many other brands are navigating through hardships, The Freedom State emerges with a proactive strategy. This budget-conscious fashion collection emphasizes the brand's commitment: to provide fashion enthusiasts with elegant options amidst these trying times.

Some of the clothing and accessories available at The Freedom State.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8846/184643_656961c88488fb8b_002full.jpg

Launching The Freedom State's new summer collection for women couldn't be timelier, aligning with a transformative phase in the fashion industry. In the face of ongoing change, brands are required to reinvent, evolve, and carve their niche in the intricate world of global fashion. The Freedom State's fresh range stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethical sourcing, and most importantly, affordability.

An increasing shift towards local sourcing and uplifting indigenous artisans is evident as the global fashion scene faces disruptions. Breaks in global supply chains emphasize the profound importance of harnessing domestic resources and talent. This move towards localization not only bolsters community growth but offers brands a unique platform to spotlight narratives rooted in local artistry and heritage.

A stunning blue summer dress - new season fashion at The Freedom State.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8846/184643_656961c88488fb8b_003full.jpg

In this shifting retail landscape, The Freedom State stands out with its unwavering commitment to these ideals. Their recent collection showcases tenacity, adaptability, and a forward-thinking vision, addressing both sustainability and a customer-first approach. Their new clothing range will include designs from a number of well-known Australian brands as well as inspiration from collaboration with some highly-regarded international design houses such as the renowned Pedro Clavero of Spain.

The Freedom State's innovative launch stands as a testament to resilience and paints a vision of a forward-looking, consumer-centric fashion horizon. As the brand marches ahead, it looks to not only cater to the evolving tastes of its customer base but also pave the way for a more conscientious and ethically-driven global fashion paradigm. By recognizing the pulse of the industry and responding proactively, The Freedom State solidifies its position as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the dynamic world of fashion.

MEDIA CONTACT

Contact Person Name: Mandy Bell

Company: The Freedom State

E-mail: info@thefreedomstate.com.au

Website: https://www.thefreedomstate.com.au/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/184643
Chinese studying, working overseas tell China stories through short videos

People's Daily Online) 10:38, October 26, 2023

An increasing number of Chinese studying or working abroad are becoming vloggers, sharing interesting stories about their daily lives in foreign countries on video platforms and recording moments of different cultures fusing. Their work has opened a window for more people to know about the world, serving as a bridge for cultural exchange between China and other countries.

Using the guzheng to help the world understand China

Peng Jingxuan, 27 years old, has been learning the guzheng, a traditional Chinese musical instrument, since childhood. After graduating from the Wuhan Conservatory of Music with a degree in Chinese music in 2017, Peng went to France to pursue studies in music theory.

Photo shows Peng Jingxuan. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

Peng has attracted over 15 million followers on Chinese video-sharing and social media platforms such as Bilibili, Douyin, and Weibo. She also has millions of followers on international social media platforms like YouTube and Instagram.

"Previously, I focused on the practical aspects of guzheng playing through systematic learning. In my graduate studies, I wanted to delve into music theory and explore different musical systems, which is why I came to France," she said.

There, she encountered many artists performing on the streets, playing the piano, violin and clarinet.

Although Peng had been studying the guzheng for many years, she had only performed in formal indoor settings such as music halls. Showcasing her talents on the streets made her a bit nervous.

"This required courage for me, and I had been hesitant for a while. Eventually, I decided to push myself and enhance my performance skills in unfamiliar surroundings," said Peng.

Peng Jingxuan plays the guzheng on a street in France. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

In the summer of 2018, wearing a Chinese-style white dress, Peng put on a guzheng performance for the first time on the square of the Grand Theatre of Bordeaux in France.

"The square was teeming with people, and I felt a tinge of nervousness before beginning to play. But once I started, I concentrated on executing each piece and delivering a standard performance," Peng recalled.

As her performance concluded, Peng was met with enthusiastic applause from the onlookers. Her street debut had been more successful than she expected.

"After the performance, many people didn't want to leave. They gathered around me, asking about the instrument, where it came from, and the pieces I played. This made me realize that street performances with the guzheng can expose foreign citizens to Chinese traditional music and culture. So I definitely want to continue performing on the streets," she said.

Peng then prepared a small box with a sign that read "Chinese Guzheng," along with brief introductions to the guzheng in English and French. Occasionally, she would also print brochures introducing Chinese musical instruments and put small guzheng models in the box to give to interested audience members.

During each street performance, Peng would ask her friends to help record her performance and share it online. "Gradually, more and more people started to pay attention to me, which made me feel a greater sense of responsibility, so I wanted to present fresh and diverse content in each performance," Peng said.

She carefully selected her repertoire for each performance, which included traditional guzheng classics, popular ancient-style songs popular with young people, as well as some English and French songs, bringing new vitality to the ancient instrument.

Peng was also meticulous in her choice of costumes for the performances. She believes that Hanfu, the traditional Chinese attire, perfectly matches the guzheng.

When performing on foreign streets, the Hanfu would create a visual contrast with the local scenery and architecture, adding a touch of romance to her shows.

Peng has showcased her talent in many countries such as Switzerland, Spain and Italy, among others. She has compiled a captivating video collection titled "Traveling with Guzheng - Seeing the World."

Peng habitually carries her guzheng and a speaker with her wherever she travels, and is always ready to give a street performance. She has brought Chinese traditional music to more places, allowing her followers to experience the beauty of different landscapes around the world.

More people should know about the richness and excellence of Chinese traditional culture. Music exchange is one of the most direct forms of cultural exchange. I hope that through my performances, everyone can experience China's cultural confidence. I also look forward to establishing a guzheng club overseas, where I can teach and share my knowledge with more people who have a passion for Chinese folk music," said Peng.

Teaching Chinese to Africans

On Sept. 16, 26-year-old Lu Weiyi posted a video titled "Hello everyone, I'm back" on Bilibili, which received over 200,000 views. In the video, she was seen tearfully packing her bags and hugging the African students who had come to bid her farewell.

Lu, who majored in teaching Chinese to speakers of other languages, went to the African island country of Comoros to teach Chinese in 2019.

Photo shows Lu Weiyi. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

Lu admitted that she didn't know much about this country initially. When she first found out that she would be teaching in Comoros, her family was a bit worried.

"After all, it was my first time living so far away on my own. But deep down, I was very excited. If I could go to Africa, it would definitely be an unforgettable memory for a lifetime!"

Lu was excited to arrive in the foreign country, and eager to experience a different and thrilling lifestyle. Despite the initial challenges and unfamiliarity she encountered upon arrival, she quickly adapted to the new surroundings after a week or two.

Lu's teaching tasks were challenging. She taught Chinese at the University of Comoros, a Chinese interest class in a primary school, and a weekend social interest class.

"Despite the busy workload, I appreciated the chance to engage with students of various age groups. I have taught students as young as seven or eight years old, all the way up to individuals in their sixties or seventies," Lu said proudly.

Lu Weiyi poses for a picture with her African students. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

During her teaching journey, Lu vividly experienced the popularity of Chinese culture in the local community.

"When we organized enrolment activities for the social interest class, many locals showed great interest. They were particularly excited when we mentioned that they could learn not only Chinese but also Chinese martial arts, like Tai Chi. They eagerly signed up, and as time went on, many students even brought their families and friends along," said Lu.

In her spare time, Lu started vlogging, sharing her daily life on the internet.

After spending four years in Comoros, Lu's online following grew steadily. Her videos introduced Comoros to many netizens for the first time, leaving them in awe of the stunning island landscapes. They were also amazed to find that Lu's African students could speak Chinese fluently and write Chinese characters with proficiency.

While she was in Comoros, Lu successfully passed the examination and became an official Chinese government-sponsored teacher abroad. In September 2023, she completed her teaching tenure in Comoros and returned to China.

Lu has said she intends to apply for another overseas assignment in Africa, aiming to further contribute to the promotion of Chinese culture.

Sharing daily life in Thailand through short videos

"I like to share, and making videos has always been my hobby," said 25-year-old Wang Qingqing, who has been working in Thailand for over a year and has published more than 120 videos.

After graduating from university in June 2022, Wang came to Thailand to teach Chinese through a program offered by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation with the Ministry of Education.

Photo shows Wang Qingqing. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

After quickly developing a deep affection for the country, she decided to record her experiences through videos. Initially, these videos were meant for her parents, but to her surprise, they gained attention from a wider audience.

Encouraged by the positive response, Wang started sharing her teaching stories and experiences with a larger online community.

"I'm currently teaching at a high school in Samut Prakan Province, Thailand. The students enjoy being in front of the camera and we often film videos together. Sometimes, I even do live-streaming and the students enthusiastically participate, dancing and singing," said Wang.

After spending so much time with her students, Wang feels that there is hardly any generation gap between them.

Wang Qingqing teaches the Chinese language to Thai students. (Photo courtesy of the interviewee)

"When I chatted with the students, I was surprised to find out that they were also familiar with Chinese TV dramas and celebrities. There were even popular Chinese dramas that I hadn't watched yet, but the Thai students had already seen them and recommended them to me. They used the international version of Chinese video apps to stay updated on the latest episodes," said Wang.

"Apart from TV dramas, my students also enjoy listening to ancient Chinese music and reading ancient novels online. In Thai bookstores, the best-selling sections are filled with a variety of Chinese ancient novels, available in both the Chinese version and translated into Thai. These novels are very popular and in high demand," Wang expressed.

Wang also noticed that many Thai students use WeChat, particularly those who are learning Chinese. They are skilled in using various Chinese social media apps and willingly engage in conversations with Chinese on these platforms to boost their Chinese language skills.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The onsite exhibition of 134th China Import and Export Fair("Canton Fair" or "the Fair") embarks on its second phase, transforming the exhibition grounds into a mesmerizing realm of trade and cultural exploration. From October 23 to October 27, the bustling Complex, teeming with traders and connoisseurs eager to explore the treasures within the three major sections dedicated to Housewares, Gifts and Decorations, and Building and Furniture. The daily ceramics section stood out, drawing attention with its high-quality exhibits that embodied the spirit of craftsmanship and the allure of Chinese culture.

At the Fair, Zibo Huaguang Royal Ceramics Technology & Culture Co., Ltd.("Huaguang") showcased the BONE CHINA Tea Set Gift Box. This stunning collection utilizes Huaguang's patented natural mineral synthetic bone china, ensuring a safe and antibacterial experience with zero lead and zero cadmium. The design incorporates four traditional Chinese motifs associated with good luck and prosperity, seamlessly merging the resplendent colors of Dunhuang with the refined Morandi tones. The addition of traditional pastels and hand-painted gold accents bestows an exquisite beauty upon this remarkable gift box. For more detailed information, please visit https://goo.su/EwBLev1.

Tangshan Longchang Ceramics Co., Ltd., has unveiled an exceptional range of bone china tableware at the Fair. The gentle and lustrous appearance, reminiscent of the exquisite beauty of jade, radiates a serene white hue that is as durable as it is resistant to wear. The designs encompassed within this range present a captivating spectacle, with options ranging from floral motifs that pay homage to the rich traditions of Chinese aesthetics, to modern geometric shapes that exude a fashionable and refined visual allure. The combination of ingenuity and innovation has garnered immense acclaim and admiration from buyers, where more detailed information released here https://goo.su/3x3ux.

ChaoZhou SanHua Ceramics Industrial Co., Ltd., ("SanHua"), presents its captivating line of daily ceramic products at the Canton Fair. These products feature kiln-variable glazes, with the hand-painted coffee cup series being a standout. This series undergoes a meticulous two-layer kiln glazing process, resulting in a versatile appearance and heightened ornamental value. Through the incorporation of medium-temperature hand-painting, stamping, and coloring techniques, alongside unique decorative designs, each product in this series offers unparalleled uniqueness, making it an exemplary choice for embellishing everyday life and elevating the overall quality of life. For comprehensive information, kindly click on https://goo.su/HHYD8WV.

Experience the richness of the second phase of the 134th Canton Fair, where an extensive selection of daily consumer products awaits, providing a glimpse into the captivating aesthetics of Chinese life. For further details about the exhibition, please visit the official website of the Canton Fair at https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/posts/646531331412942848, or contact caiyiyi caiyiyi@cantonfair.org.cn for any inquiries.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258141/image_5003628_5339711.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/discover-the-enchanting-world-of-chinese-life-aesthetics-through-daily-ceramics-at-the-134th-canton-fair-301968435.html
Qkine, an industry-leading manufacturer of animal-free, highly pure recombinant proteins, is delighted to announce a sales distribution agreement with Thomas Scientific to enable fast and easy purchasing of Qkine growth factors and cytokines for stem cell scientists based in the United States.

Thomas Scientific serves as a solutions provider for complex scientific workflows across the United States and is known for their individualized customer service and comprehensive product portfolio. With access to the full Qkine portfolio, US-based stem cell scientists will be able to efficiently purchase animal-free growth factors and cytokines for many applications including iPSC maintenance and differentiation, organoid and 3D cultures, plus emerging fields such as cellular agriculture and regenerative medicine.

Dr Catherine Elton, CEO of Qkine expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating: "Thomas Scientific is a superb US distribution partner for Qkine. Their proven commitment to product quality and personalized customer service aligns with our focus on providing the best growth factors and cytokines to support advancements in stem cell and regenerative medicine research across the United States."

Rebecca Lodge, Director of Life Sciences at Thomas Scientific, added: "We are pleased to collaborate with Qkine, an industry-leading manufacturer of bioactive proteins. This collaboration is a testament to our shared commitment to providing high-quality products and customer service to the scientific community."

For more information about Qkine and its products, please visit www.qkine.com. To learn more about Thomas Scientific and its distribution services, please visit www.thomassci.com.

NOTES TO EDITORS

About Qkine:

Qkine manufactures high-purity, animal-free growth factors, cytokines, and other complex proteins for life science applications including stem cell and organoid culture. Based in Cambridge, UK, Qkine combines proprietary production processes with protein engineering technology to tackle fundamental biological, quality, and scale-up challenges to provide more reliable tools for research and bio-manufacturing. Qkine is ISO 9001:2015 certified.

About Thomas Scientific:

Thomas Scientific is US a scientific laboratory distribution company with a strong focus on customer support. Thomas Scientific is committed to offering quality laboratory products while catering to the unique needs of the individual customer making them a trusted partner in the science industry.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026281023/en/

Contacts:

Limewash, Cambridge, UK

Sarah Brereton, Director +44 7796 583 223 sarah@limewash.co.uk
Reward appoints ex-Mastercard executive Jamie Samaha as new CEO

Gavin Dein moves to Founder & Deputy Chairman role to support International and corporate development

Appointment to drive new phase of global growth and expansion

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Reward, a pioneering force in commerce media, customer engagement, and data insights, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jamie Samaha as its new Chief Executive Officer. This strategic move aims to guide the company through an exciting new chapter of global growth and expansion.

With a stellar global career spanning over two and a half decades, Mr. Samaha brings a wealth of experience to Reward. His experience spans 7 years at Mastercard, where he was Executive Vice-President Loyalty & Engagement Services, and built digital-first differentiated consumer value propositions for Mastercard's customers across 60+ markets. Most recently he served as Group CEO of Prezzee and oversaw the international scale-up phase of the Australian fintech unicorn earning recognition as Deloitte's TechFast 50 and Australian Financial Review's #1 Best Place to Work in its category. Mr. Samaha's experience also includes serving as Managing Director of Pinpoint from 2010 to 2014, supporting the company's expansion into multiple Asian markets and concluding in its acquisition by Mastercard in 2014. Beyond his corporate achievements, Jamie is a passionate advocate for gender equality and has actively served on advisory boards across various sectors. His commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the boardroom, reflecting Reward's dedication to values that go beyond financial success.

"I've long held admiration for Reward's outstanding work, led by Gavin, and it's an honour to lead this remarkable company that he and his team have built. With established offices in London, Belfast, Singapore, and Dubai, our immediate focus is to propel Reward's presence across these markets and beyond" said Samaha. "As the new CEO of Reward, my vision is clear: we're at the cutting edge of customer engagement, commerce media, and data insights. I'm committed to preserving our exceptional culture while elevating our operational focus to achieve global success."

With Jamie assuming the role of CEO, current Founder and CEO, Gavin Dein, will step away from daily managerial responsibilities and into a Founder & Deputy Chairman role, where he will focus on supporting international growth initiatives and corporate development from the U.A.E. Effective immediately, this carefully orchestrated transition has seen Jamie working closely with the outgoing CEO over the past five months, immersing himself in the business to ensure seamless continuity for customers, partners, and the leadership team.

"Collaborating with Jamie at Mastercard and Prezzee provided me with a front-row seat to his transformative leadership style. Jamie embodies dynamism, inspiration, and, most crucially, resonates with our corporate culture and values. I'm convinced he is the visionary that Reward needs as it gears up for its next global ascent. My passion for Reward's vision and mission remains unyielding, and I eagerly anticipate supporting Jamie and our fantastic team as we navigate this promising transition said Mr Dein.

About Jamie Samaha

Jamie's career highlights include serving as the Group CEO of Prezzee, a digital gifting fintech, overseeing its global expansion and achieving remarkable growth and financial performance, leading to accolades like Deloitte's 50 in 2022. Before Prezzee, he held key executive positions at Mastercard for 7 years, culminating in his role as Executive Vice-President of Loyalty and Engagement. In this role, he managed a global team responsible for developing digital-first consumer value propositions. Jamie also held various Senior Vice-President roles at Mastercard, covering areas like global value-added services, and premium credit products and consumer loyalty in Europe.

From 2010 to 2014, Jamie served as Managing Director of Pinpoint, a leading consumer engagement technology business across 8 Asia Pacific markets, where he expanded the company's offering in the payments industry. Additionally, he has served on Non-Exec Director and Advisory Boards in sport, retail, public policy, and charities, including notable organisations such as The Australian Ballet and Sydney's Childrens Hospital.

A strong advocate for gender equality, Jamie has actively mentored female executives and was recognised as a 2020 Male Agent of Change Finalist for the Everywoman Awards. He holds an Executive MBA from UTS and a B.Com in Finance/Marketing from UNSW Australia and resides in London, UK, with his family.

About Reward

Founded in 2001, Reward is an industry leader transforming the world of customer engagement and commerce media.

Operating in 15 countries across Europe, Middle East and Asia, Reward's cloud-based API platform integrates content, advertising, and commerce to deliver exceptional experiences for consumers resulting in increased customer engagement, retention, and overall satisfaction.

Reward's Loyalty-tech platform is behind many award-winning bank loyalty programmes seen today from brands such as Visa, NatWest Group, Barclays, and First Abu Dhabi Bank to name a few.

Reward also works with the world's largest retailers such as McDonald's, eBay, Deliveroo and Amazon. Their leading commerce media platform fuses purchase insights with loyalty-tech, offering an unparalleled edge in digital advertising and performance marketing for retailers. Leveraging rich data and insights, the Reward platform provides a comprehensive view of consumer behaviour, empowering retailers to target marketing messages more effectively, resulting in independently verified sales uplift and long-term customer lifetime value.

Beyond bridging the gap between content and commerce, Reward is a purpose driven business. Their mission is to make everyday spending more rewarding. During the last 5 years, Reward has proudly given back more than $1billion in cashback rewards to consumers world-wide.

Most recently, Reward's rapid growth was recognised in The Independent's E2ETech100 list of fastest growing tech scale-ups in the UK. Reward, in conjunction with partners NatWest Group, was also awarded the Industry Achievement Award 2023 at the prestigious Card and Payments Awards.

For more information, please visit www.rewardinsight.com.

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BUCHAREST, Romania, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SeedBlink, Europe's tech-focused venture investment and equity management platform, introduces a series of product enhancements as part of Fall Release. These updates are designed to simplify and enhance the equity understanding and access processes for European companies and their stakeholders. The new tools are for founders but also for investors.



"SeedBlink is determined to transform Europe's approach to equity ownership, bridging the gap between financial and intelligent capital. Unlike the thriving equity culture in the United States, Europe faces unique challenges. Our ongoing innovations are dedicated to revolutionizing equity access, management, and trading," stated Andrei Dudoiu, Co-founder and Managing Partner of SeedBlink.

NimityLink, SeedBlink's flagship Ambassadors program, is redefining traditional cap tables by seamlessly integrating numerous European stakeholders into a united community. This brand-new referral initiative is positioned to be a pilot for building an esteemed European network, grounded in traceable connections from paper to empowered communities.

As NimityLink ambassadors, participants will receive SeedBlink shares, actively contribute to the product's evolution as an extended team, enjoy complimentary membership in the SeedBlink Club, gain entry to the Tech Investors Academy, and secure an exclusive invitation within a community of distinguished experts.

The program is open until the end of November and invites founders, investors, and experts who can advise European startups to be part of it and bring the power of networks together.

The tools introduced by SeedBlink for empowering founders are:

Simulations- is Nimity's new tool designed to offer entrepreneurs an easy way to preview the financial and equity implications of prospective funding rounds from dilution to outstanding options impact. Simulations translate complex financial dynamics into understandable, dynamic visuals, enhancing transparency in equity distribution and ownership structures.

Community Stars- was launched in September and serves as a cornerstone for early-stage startups graduating from technology and business accelerators. The initiative aims to seamlessly connect innovative founders with their communities, providing crucial support during pivotal early growth phases.

Introducing EquiBot- In its beta phase, EquiBot is Nimity's AI-powered chatbot crafted to explain complex equity management concepts for founders and investors alike. Acting as an informational aide, EquiBot aims to educate users on equity-related intricacies, offering insights into the workings of SeedBlink and Nimity.

Enhancements for Investors

SeedBlink continues to modernize the access and trading of private equity for individuals, and has refined the payments process, ensuring an intuitive, and secure experience. Moreover, SeedBlink investors can now track their complete portfolio on Nimity, even with externally held equity or startup securities.

About SeedBlink

SeedBlink's mission is to simplify and grow equity ownership in Europe. Through its range of products, financial services, and extensive network, it offers an equity management and tech-focused venture investment platform that enables European startups and their stakeholders to access, manage, and trade equity.

SeedBlink SA is registered in the Register of the Romanian Financial Supervisory Authority.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/291cf0a4-f959-4051-ab40-596ce10b8031
ARC's new campus experience app powered by HqO is available across its four clusters, providing world-class amenities that deepen and strengthen its connection to over 10,000 members

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023, the world's leading real estate experience platform provider, has been selected by ARC , one of Europe's leading networks of science and innovation clusters, to power its new 'Member of the Future' campus experience app. The addition of ARC to HqO's portfolio further expands its reach and user base across Europe and the UK.



Deployed across ARC's four clusters in Oxford, Harwell, West London, and Uxbridge, the new app increases HqO's reach by adding 1.6 million square feet of contracted space, and over 10,000 new users to its already sizeable global presence. Since inception, HqO has connected over 400 million square feet of space across more than 700 properties, in 32 countries.

"There has been a fundamental evolution in the real estate experience economy as space has moved from a commodity to a service and now to an experience. In response, real estate needs to be flexible to meet the ever-changing needs of the people using it, inspiring them, caring for them, and bringing them together. That's why we created the Real Estate Experience (REX) category, and launched the HqO REX Platform, the first end-to-end experience solution built around the customer. This asset agnostic, cross-property suite of powerful applications assesses the health and performance of a customer's experience within a physical space, while providing the necessary tools for operators to manage and optimise it, all from one central location," said Samuel Warren, Vice President of Sales EMEA, at HqO.

"ARC already does so much to offer its members a unique, innovative, and engaging campus. We could not be more delighted to partner with them to enhance these opportunities and derive insights to further support the needs of their tenants and their experiences."

Digital Connections at the Centre of Real Estate

The new app is helping to unlock the full potential of ARC's campuses. Designed to connect seamlessly with ARC's existing systems and support its member engagement methods, HqO's platform offers a host of powerful features. These include custom branding, content management systems, app support, and a web portal allowing partners to access the HqO app directly from their desktops.

Accessing the platform via the desktop portal allows ARC to capture and analyse critical user and property data to inform the complete lifecycle of its real estate assets. This includes measuring and assessing the success of programmes, monitoring member and user satisfaction, and gathering insight on the performance of amenities, space, and services that can inform future investment and planning.

Dan Metcalfe, Senior Director of Community, Communications and Marketing at ARC commented: "Advanced Research Clusters (ARC) exists to help science and innovation businesses within our campus network to thrive. Supporting our community of 10,000 requires an outstanding digital ecosystem, and we're delighted to partner with HqO. Together, we aim to deliver a state-of-the-art membership app which will make it easier for our members to connect, foster collaboration and enhance their campus experience."

Partners and Members Already Feeling the Benefit

Following the release of ARC's new campus experience app powered by HqO, its members are already seeing the benefit. With an active user rate of 80%, ARC members are accessing the app to discover and book themselves to events, smoothly manage gym and meeting room scheduling, and access exclusive offers.

Supporting the development of its members' business skills and aiding in raising their profiles, ARC is also using the new app to promote and drive awareness of upcoming networking and workshop events. Increasing attendance at these events will further help foster the connections and partnerships that innovation businesses depend on.

Samuel Warren concluded: "It is a privilege to have ARC, one of the most exciting place-based innovation clusters, join our portfolio. Its track record of creating high-quality environments for business, R&D and hi-tech manufacturing occupiers is unmatched. As HqO expands across the UK and Europe, being selected by ARC is a huge validation of our service and technology."

For additional questions or more information, please reach out to HqOPR@boathouseinc.com.

About HqO:

HqO is leading the transformation of the way people experience real estate by converging data, technology, and the customer. Through its Real Estate Experience (REX) Platform-a powerful and dynamic suite of applications and services-HqO has powered over 400 million square feet at over 700 properties across 32 countries. The world's most innovative organisations rely on HqO to drive operational excellence by maximising and boosting tenant and employee acquisition, retention, and engagement.

For more information, visit www.hqo.com .

About ARC

ARC is the smarter real estate partner for science and innovation.

We concentrate innovation companies in Advanced Research Clusters - place-based clusters at the leading edges of major knowledge economies like Oxford and London. They're unique ecosystems that accelerate commercial growth by providing the best possible working environments for our members.

Offices, coworking, cleanrooms, accelerator labs, and leading open access R&D facilities - discover flexible science-ready spaces within green, energising environments and community events in places designed to motivate and inspire.

ARC members learn to optimise their businesses from an active partner landlord that mentors as well as provides space. They take advantage of new ways to promote themselves using ARC as a platform, and they join a growing network of innovators that will one day be worldwide.



We're solving the business of science so science can change the world. Welcome to ARC.
Regulatory News:

TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) (LSE:TTE) (NYSE:TTE) has signed agreements with the Aloys Wobben Foundation (AWS) to acquire the entire share capital of the German company Quadra Energy. Founded in 2012 and boasting a "virtual power plant" totaling 9 GW, Quadra Energy is one of the top 3 aggregators of renewable electricity production in Germany the largest power market in Europe with the highest renewable growth.

Specializing in the aggregation of renewable electricity, Quadra Energy purchased production from around 5,000 wind and solar power plants in 2022, and then resold 14 TWh on wholesale markets and to German resellers and customers. Quadra Energy has also developed since 2021 a portfolio of medium-term contracts for the purchase of 2 TWh of renewable power and their sale through corporate PPAs.

This acquisition, which is subject to approval by the relevant authorities, will enable TotalEnergies to further strengthen its integrated power business in Germany. TotalEnergies will leverage the extensive expertise of Quadra Energy's 40 staff members, as well as its innovative weather-forecasting platform. These assets will also enable the Company to strengthen its trading capacity on the intraday markets and to broaden its marketing activities to offer its German customers competitive corporate PPAs and clean firm power. Finally, Quadra Energy's in-depth knowledge of local renewable developers will also make it easier for TotalEnergies to develop its own renewable production capacity in the country, following its successful bid for a 3 GW offshore wind concession in July.

"We are pleased with the acquisition of Quadra Energy, and I would like to welcome their teams, who will be an essential component of our presence in Germany's electricity market," said Stephane Michel, President Gas, Renewables Power at TotalEnergies. "This agreement will enable us to speed up the development of our Integrated Power activities in the country whose electricity market has particularly attractive fundamentals in both production, trading, aggregation and marketing of Corporate PPA and clean firm power. This acquisition thus contributes positively to our profitability target of 12 ROACE by 2028 for this business segment."

TotalEnergies and electricity

As part of its ambition to get to net zero by 2050, TotalEnergies is building a world class cost-competitive portfolio combining renewables (solar, onshore and offshore wind) and flexible assets (CCGT, storage) to deliver clean firm power to its customers. In 2022, TotalEnergies generated more than 33 TWh of electricity, and had a gross renewable electricity generation installed capacity of 17 GW. TotalEnergies will continue to expand this business to grow its power generation to more than 100 TWh by 2030, with the objective of being among the world's top 5 producers of electricity from wind and solar energy.

About TotalEnergies

TotalEnergies is a global multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to energy that is ever more affordable, cleaner, more reliable and accessible to as many people as possible. Active in nearly 130 countries, TotalEnergies puts sustainable development in all its dimensions at the heart of its projects and operations to contribute to the well-being of people.

@TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies TotalEnergies

Cautionary Note

The terms "TotalEnergies", "TotalEnergies company" or "Company" in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies' financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorite des Marches Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026083203/en/

Contacts:

TotalEnergies Contacts

Media Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 99 l presse@totalenergies.com l @TotalEnergiesPR

Investor Relations: +33 (0)1 47 44 46 46 l ir@totalenergies.com
Speeding Up the Development of Financial Center in Western China

CHONGQING, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 24, the Fourth Jiangbeizui Financial Summit was held in Jiangbeizui Central Business District, Chongqing. With the theme of "New Journey, New Duty, New Finance - Speeding Up the Development of Financial Center in Western China", the summit aims to explore new opportunities for Chongqing's development and contribute to building a modern and new Chongqing.

Building the Financial Center in Western China is a crucial mandate to Chongqing from the CPC Central Committee. Jiangbei District focuses on three significant aspects: gathering financial institutions, enhancing financial services, and developing financial talent. The district has financial assets worth over RMB3.5 trillion, making the financial sector a pillar of its economy.

At the opening ceremony, significant outcomes were released, including the "Jiangbei Financial Index" and the CPC-Finance-ChongqingInitiative to Ease the Burden of Businesses and Increase the Well-Being of People. Additionally, activities featuring the 20th-anniversary exhibition of Jiangbei's development and interviews with financial experts were launched on the same day.

The summit was held under the guidance of Xinhua News Agency and the Chongqing Municipal Government. It was co-hosted by multiple organizations, featuring the Publicity Department of the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, the Chongqing Financial Regulatory Bureau, the CPC Chongqing Jiangbei District Committee, the People's Government of Jiangbei District, the Xinhua News Agency Chongqing Branch, and the China Economic Information Service, while co-organized by China Forum for Digital Finance Cooperation.

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LONDON (dpa-AFX) - UK car manufacturing registered its strongest month ever thus far this year underpinned by robust domestic and foreign demand, data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders showed on Thursday.



Car production logged a double-digit annual growth of 39.8 percent in September. This was the strongest month of expansion thus far this year. About 88,230 cars rolled out of factories.



The best September since 2020. Moreover, car production reached 659,901 units year to date, nearly 15 percent above the same period last year.



Deliveries for the domestic market surged 65.9 percent in September. There was an increase of 32.2 percent in exports. The EU continued to be Britain's leading trading partner. In every ten units, six went to the EU.



Exports to the US climbed 19.8 percent and that to China advanced 28.2 percent. Shipments to Turkey posted a sharp increase of 212.0 percent.



Electrified car production registered an increase of 41.5 percent in September. Electrified vehicles accounted for more than a third of outbound shipments since January.



Given the increasing importance of electric vehicles trade with mainland Europe, the tariff-free trade set out in the UK-EU Trade Cooperation Agreement must be maintained, the lobby said. Tougher rules of origin for batteries will come into force in January 2024.



SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes said the first and urgent step is for the UK and EU to agree to delay the tougher rules of origin requirements.



A delay in rules will give breathing space for automotive sectors on both sides of the Channel to scale up gigafactories and green supply chains, both of which are essential for a stable, long-term transition, said Hawes.



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LONDON and NEW YORK and PUNE, India, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Synechron, Inc., a leading global digital transformation consulting firm focused on the financial services and big technology organizations, announced today the launch of its RiskTech.AI Accelerators program. The program offers a suite of five solutions that strategically integrate cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence ('AI') or Generative AI ('GenAI') tools to enable Synechron's clients to identify, understand, address and mitigate critical modern business risks rapidly and efficiently.

These innovative solutions were designed to allow organizations to determine the likelihood of potential business and loan portfolio risks/losses across several areas. Specific, targeted risks include supply chain problem risks, climate-related risks, regulatory implementation and change management processes risks, Know Your Customer ('KYC') investigations, and IT vulnerability and cybersecurity risks.

This is the 11th Accelerators program that Synechron has launched since its Blockchain Accelerators debuted in September 2016.

The new RiskTech.AI Accelerators program was crafted through the collaboration of Synechron's digital technology innovation team members and its deep domain experts, working together across 13 global Financial Innovation Labs ('FinLabs') that serve as innovation hubs. These AI-powered risk solutions were developed to respond to the growing need across multiple financial services organizations to raise the bar on better ways to tackle increasing risk challenges, greatly aided by leveraging advanced AI techniques and methodologies. Synechron's RiskTech.AI accelerator solutions were crafted to automate and drive more efficient and cost-saving processes for use within a firm's rapid risk mitigation efforts.

The new, future-forward and fully customizable set of RiskTech.AI Accelerators program solutions includes:

Supply Chain Risk Insights - An application that utilizes AI to enable risk managers of loan portfolios to better visualize, interpret, contextualize and manage supply chain vulnerabilities and risks of public corporations.





- An application that utilizes AI to enable risk managers of loan portfolios to better visualize, interpret, contextualize and manage supply chain vulnerabilities and risks of public corporations. Climate Risk Stress Test and Analysis ('CRiSTAL') - A comprehensive platform for financial institutions to discover and manage climate risk vulnerabilities and exposures within their existing lending portfolios.





- A comprehensive platform for financial institutions to discover and manage climate risk vulnerabilities and exposures within their existing lending portfolios. Regulatory Implementation Optimizer - GenAI tooling for regulatory change management and compliance risk management.





GenAI tooling for regulatory change management and compliance risk management. KYC Risk Investigator - An enhanced, multi-functional KYC due diligence evaluative solution empowered with AI tools and GenAI to boost KYC analysts' efficiency and reduce associated costs while identifying potential risks.





- An enhanced, multi-functional KYC due diligence evaluative solution empowered with AI tools and GenAI to boost KYC analysts' efficiency and reduce associated costs while identifying potential risks. IT Risk and Control Contextualizer ('iTRACC') - An application automating data integration, workflow and leveraging advanced analytics and machine learning AI models-rich tooling, built around an IT risk control/calculation platform, to identify, prioritize and manage IT and cybersecurity risks.

Faisal Husain, Synechron's Co-founder and CEO, said of the launch of the RiskTech.AI Accelerators program, "As big believers in the power of advanced technologies, we're pleased to have developed our new RiskTech.AI Accelerators program. It features critical new approaches and imbedded AI-enriched innovations to help organizations identify, prioritize and quickly respond to business risk stressors."

Sandeep Kumar, Head of Synechron's FinLabs and Accelerators programs, commented, "Multiple risks can have a severe financial impact and lingering business consequences for financial services firms. We have responded with a new set of RiskTech.AI Accelerators - advanced technological innovations that can assist businesses to find, gauge the possible depth and breadth of, and quickly respond to important risks."

About Synechron:

At Synechron, we believe in the power of digital to transform businesses for the better. Our global consulting firm combines creativity and innovative technology to deliver industry-leading digital solutions. Synechron's progressive technologies and optimization strategies span end-to-end Artificial Intelligence, Consulting, Digital, Cloud & DevOps, Data, and Software Engineering, servicing an array of noteworthy financial services and technology firms. Through research and development initiatives in our FinLabs we develop solutions for modernization, from Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain to Data Science models, Digital Underwriting, mobile-first applications and more. Over the last 20+ years, our company has been honored with multiple employer awards, recognizing our commitment to our talented teams. With top clients to boast about, Synechron has a global workforce of 14,500+, and has 44 offices in 19 countries within key global markets. For more information on the company, please visit our?website?or?LinkedIn community.

For more information please contact:

Rashmi Joshi

Synechron

Media@synechron.com/ Rashmi.Joshi@synechron.com

Or?

SEC Newgate UK:?

Andrew Adie / Sophie Morello / Matthew Redley?

Synechron@secnewgate.co.uk

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Q3 2023 turnover : 126.2 million

Stable third quarter due to the impact of restrictions put in place in Brazil

Energy sales: +5%. Stability of production (+1% at 1,2 TWh) despite restrictions put in place, after the widespread power cut in August in Brazil

Services: multiplied by x2 (before eliminations) ie (i) internal services multiplied by x7, benefiting from the high level of own account projects, with 346 MW commissioned during the quarter and 643 MW still under construction; and (ii) Services to third-party clients down 6%, almost back to the level before the peak in own-account projects

2023 ambitions

Increase of 2023 capacity target in operation and construction to around 2.8 GW (compared with 2.6 GW previously) including around 2.3 GW in operation (+47% compared with the end of 2022)

Confirmation of the normalised EBITDA1 target of around 275 million

2027 ambitions reaffirmed

Capacity in operation and under construction: over 5 GW

Capacity operated on behalf of third parties: over 8 GW

Normalised EBITDA2: around 475 million

CO 2 -equivalent avoided: over 4 million tonnes

Voltalia (Euronext Paris, ISIN code: FR0011995588), an international player in renewable energies, publishes its turnover for the third quarter of 2023.

 The third quarter was marked by a large number of power plant commissionings, totaling 346 MW, to which must now be added 99 MW since the beginning of October, reflecting the efforts of the teams on the ground. Despite the restrictions put in place following the widespread power cut in Brazil in August, production in the third quarter is increasing, as in each of the first two quarters. On the strength of this progress, and in anticipation of further project disposals for which negotiations are now at an advanced stage, we are reaffirming our 2023 EBITDA target of around 275 million, representing a doubling compared with 2022. We are already working hard to prepare for the next milestones , commented Sebastien Clerc, CEO of Voltalia.

Turnover for the third quarter (Q3) and for the nine first months (M9) of 2023

In  million3 Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Change

at current exchange rates Change

at constant exchange rates 4 M9 2023 M9 2022 Change

at current exchange rates Change

at constant exchange rates2 Energy sales 78.2 74.7 +5% +5% 216.4 170.9 +27% +26% Services 135.7 63.7 x2 x2 406.9 212.9 +91% +92% Eliminations -87.6 -12.4 x7 x7 -298.1 -59.7 x5 x5 Turnover 126.2 126.0 stable stable 325.2 324.1 stable stable

ACTIVITY REVIEW

Turnover for M9 2023 stands at 325.2 million, stable compared to the first nine months of 2022 at current and constant exchange rates. Energy Sales and Services (after eliminations) contribute respectively 66% and 34% of turnover for the first nine months of 2023.

Turnover for the third quarter of 2023 stands at 126.2 million, stable compared to the third quarter of 2022 at current and constant exchange rates. Energy Sales and Services (after eliminations) contribute respectively 62% and 38% of quarterly revenue.

ENERGY SALES

Operational indicators

Q3 2023 Q3 2022 Variation M9 2023 M9 2022 Variation Production (in GWh) 1,166 1,151 +1% 2,997 2,465 +22% Installed capacity (in MW) 2,046 1,521 +35% Installed capacity and under construction (in MW) 2,688 2,432 +11% Wind load factor in Brazil 47% 53% -7pts 39% 38% +1pt Solar load factor in Brazil 24% 26% Wind load factor in France 18% 16% +2pts 23% 20% +3pts Solar load factor in France 22% 23% -1pt 19% 20% -1pt Solar load factor in Egypt 27% 28% -1pt 26% 26% stable Solar load factor in Jordania 29% 32% -3pts 27% 29% -2pts

Turnover for the nine first months of 2023 from Energy sales reaches 216.4 million, up +27% compared to the first nine months of 2022 at current and constant exchange rates. The average EUR/BRL rate is 5.42 during the first nine months of 2023, compared to 5.46 during the first nine months of 2022.

During the first nine months of 2023, production reaches 3 TWh, compared to 2.5 TWh over the first nine months of 2022, an increase of +22%. The production of 3 TWh corresponds to the electricity supply of an equivalent of 3.8 million people, making it possible to avoid 1,144 ktons of CO 2 . The increase in production reflects the growth in operation capacity, which has increased by +35% since September 2022, from 1.5 GW to 2.0 GW.

Turnover for the third quarter of 2023 from Energy Sales reaches 78.2 million, up +5% (at current and constant exchange rates) compared to the third quarter of 2022.

The third quarter was marked by an acceleration in commissioning with 346 MW connected during the quarter, thanks to the achievement of full power of the Garrido complex (+25 MW) in Portugal, the commissioning of Rives charentaises (37.4 MW) in France, the finalization of the commissioning of SSM3-6 in Brazil (+243 MW), and the dynamism of Helexia (+40.8 MW).

Despite these significant advances, production for the quarter only increases by 1%, standing at 1.2 TWh, due to curtailment which temporarily reduces production in Brazil.

Analysis by country:

In Brazil, the electricity network has disrupted since a blackout on August 15. Capping the production of certain power plants reduced production by around 120 GWh. Furthermore, the extension of connection times for new power plants reduced production by around 40 GWh. Therefore, the contribution of the new SSM3-6 solar power plant (260 MW) was significant, but insufficient to increase the country's total production;

In France, production benefits from the new installations of projects dedicated to corporate clients such as SNCF with the commissioning of the Rives charentaises wind power plant (37.4 MW) or Leroy Merlin with the commissioning of the Sud Vannier wind power plant (23.6 MW), and other projects such as Sable Blanc in Guyana;

In other countries, production increases with the contribution of new power plants, in particular those of South Farm in the United Kingdom (50 MW), the Garrido complex in Portugal (51 MW), as well as those of Helexia mainly in Spain and Hungary (9 MW). Production remains generally stable in Egypt and Jordan.





SERVICES

Turnover for the nine first months of 2023 from Services (internal and external) reaches 406.9 million, up +91% (+92% at constant exchange rates) compared to the first nine months of 2022.

The Development, Construction and Equipment Procurement segment is multiplied by x2 to reach 379.7 million, and the Operation and Maintenance segment increased by +18% to reach 27.2 million.

Internal turnover (eliminated in consolidation) is multiplied by x5 to 298.1 million, driven by the internal activity of own account power plants, while turnover with third-party clients is down 29% to 108.7 million. Activity was heavily focused internally, given the numerous constructions and commissionings underway, especially during the first six months of the year.

Turnover for the third quarter of 2023 from Services (internal and external) reach 135.7 million, multiplied by x2 compared to the third quarter of 2022 at current and constant exchange rates. Activity continues to be focused internally, but less than during the first half, with internal turnover (eliminated in consolidation) multiplied by x7 while turnover with third-party clients is down 6% (compared with -29% over nine months) to 48.1 million.

Analysis by segment shows strong growth in the Development, Construction and Equipment Procurement segment:

The Development, Construction and Equipment Procurement segment posts a turnover of 127.0 million, multiplied by x2. Internal activity multiplied by x7, reflecting the numerous active construction site, including 346 MW achieved during the quarter and 643 MW underway at the end of September. The external turnover of this segment fell by 9% to 42.8 million, compared to -34% over nine months, reflecting the rise of large contracts for third-party clients, particularly in Ireland;

The Operation and Maintenance segment records a turnover of 8.7 million, an increase of +8%. The capacity operated on its behalf and for its third-party customers amounts to 6.4 GW, an increase of +46% compared to September 2022, including 4.3 GW for external customers up +52%.

The eliminations of turnover for 9M 2023 and Q3 2023 respectively amount to 298.1 million (multiplied by x5 at current and constant exchange rates) and 87.6 million (multiplied by x7 at current and constant exchange rates), reflecting the sharp increase in internal services.

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS (SINCE SEPTEMBER 30)

The Karavasta solar power plant (140 MW) is fully built and ready to produce5

The power plant, the largest in Albania, but also in the Western Balkans, is now built and should produce its first megawatt hours in the coming weeks. The project is capable of providing electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of 220,000 inhabitants.

Start of production at the Canudos wind farm6

The project, located in the state of Bahia, in Brazil, consists of 28 wind turbines, a collector station, a switching station and a 500kV transmission line. Furthermore, in line with Voltalia's commitment, since 2021, Voltalia has been collaborating with experts to implement an ambitious program to conserve the endemic Lear's macaw and restore its main local food source, the licuri palm.

Full power for the SSM3-6 solar plant (260 MW)7

Voltalia has commissioned the entire capacity of the SSM3-6 solar power plant, including the last tranche of 133 MW whose entry into operation was slowed down due to the consequences of the network blackout on August 15.

In Brazil, Newave Energia relies on Voltalia for a 420 MW solar project8

Voltalia has sold a 420 MW project, that the company fully developed, to Newave Energia, which will also rely on Voltalia for the construction and maintenance of electrical infrastructure. This ready-to-build project is located in the Arinos complex, in the state of Minas Gerais, in the southeastern region of Brazil. Future photovoltaic plants will produce the equivalent of the consumption of 1.3 million inhabitants of the country and will avoid the emission of around 350 kt of CO 2 per year.

2023 OBJECTIVES

Increase of 2023 capacity target in operation and construction from 2.6 GW to around 2.8 GW: x2.8 compared to June 2019, when the objective was set, including around 2.3 GW in operation (+ 47% compared to the end of 2022).

Confirmation of the 2023 normalised9 EBITDA target of around 275 million representing a x2 multiplication compared to 2022 and a x4 multiplication compared to June 2019, when the target was set. To achieve this objective, Voltalia is relying on a normalised EBITDA of 61 million recorded in the first half of 2023, to which will be added a secured normalised EBITDA of around 214 million in the second half, including:

- Around 124 million from energy sales;

- Around 90 million from Services and Corporate sales. Voltalia benefits in particular from the finalisation of a 420 MW10 ready-to-build project in Brazil, as well as ongoing sales of which more than 100 MW are subject of advanced exclusive negotiations.

2027 AMBITIONS REAFFIRMED

Reaffirmation of the following ambitions :

Owned operating and construction capacity: over 5 GW ;

Capacity operated on behalf of third parties: over 8 GW ;

Normalised 11 EBITDA: around 475 million ;

EBITDA: around 475 million ; CO 2 -equivalent avoided: over 4 million tonnes.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Voltalia and its subsidiaries. These statements include financial projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future financial results, events, operations, services, product development and potential, or future performance. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "forecasts," "projects," "seeks," "strives," "aims," "hopes," "plans," "may," "goal," "objective," "projection," "outlook," and other similar expressions. Although Voltalia's management believes that these forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors and shareholders of the Group are cautioned that forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond Voltalia's control, that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include those discussed or identified in the public filings made by Voltalia with the Autorite des marches financiers, including those listed in Chapter 2 "Risk Factors and Risk Management" of Voltalia's 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorite des marches financiers on April 14, 2023 under number D.23-0267 and in Chapter 5 "Principal Risks and Trends" of the 2022 interim financial report. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and Voltalia undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking information or statements included in this press release to reflect any change in expectations or events, conditions or circumstances on which any such forward-looking statement is based. Any information regarding past performance contained in this press release should not be construed as a guarantee of future performance. Nothing in this press release should be construed as an investment recommendation or legal, tax, investment or accounting advice.

Installed capacity as of September 30, 2023

In MW Wind Solar Biomass Hydro Hybrid September 30, 2023 September 30, 2022 Belgium 17 17 16 Brazil 732 647 1,379 1,068 Egypt 32 32 32 France 126 155 5 286 215 French Guiana 13 7 5 19 44 34 Greece 17 17 17 Hungaria 12 12 - Italy 16 16 15 Jordan 57 57 57 Portugal 74 51 20 Romania 2 2 - Spain 21 21 8 United Kingdom 57 32 89 39 Total 859 1 120 7 10 51 2,046 1,521

Capacity under construction as of September 30, 2023

Name of the project Capacity Techno. Country Canudos 99.4 Wind Brazil Cafesoca 7.5 Hydro Brazil Bolebedu 148.0 Solar South Africa Karavasta 140.0 Solar Albania Logelbach 12.1 Solar France Montclar 3.7 Solar France Clifton 45.0 Solar United-Kingdom Higher Stockbridge 45.0 Solar United-Kingdom Sinamary 11.0 Biomass /storage French Guiana Lercara Friddi 3.4 Solar Italy Helexia 1.4 Solar Belgium Helexia 91.1 Solar Brazil Helexia 16.1 Solar France Helexia 0.1 Solar French Guiana Helexia 2.9 Solar Spain Helexia 1.6 Solar Romania Helexia 8.1 Solar Hongrie Helexia 1.9 Solar Italy Helexia 4.4 Solar Portugal Total (in MW) 643

Power production as of September 30. 2023

In GWh Wind Solar Biomass Hydro Hybrid12 M9 2023 M9 2022 Brazil 1,849 456 34 2,339 1,957 Egypt 59 59 61 Jordan 101 101 105 France 128 155 7 290 224 French Guiana 10 28 38 33 Greece 20 20 17 United-Kingdom 53 53 8 Portugal 47 47 22 Italy 19 19 18 Hungary 3.5 3.5 - Romania 0.7 0.7 - Belgium 10 10 11 Spain 17 17 9 Total 1,977 951 28 7 34 2,997 2,465

Next on the agenda: Q4 2023 turnover. on January 31. 2024 (before market)

About Voltalia Voltalia is an international player in renewable energies. The Group produces and sells electricity from its wind, solar, hydraulic, biomass and storage installations. It has an operating and construction capacity of 2.7 GW and a portfolio of projects under development with a total capacity of 16.1 GW.



Voltalia is also a service provider and supports its renewable customers during all stages of projects, from design to operation and maintenance.



A pioneer in the business market, Voltalia finally offers a global offering to businesses ranging from the supply of green electricity to energy efficiency services, including the local production of its own electricity.



With more than 1,700 employees in 20 countries on 3 continents, Voltalia has a capacity for global action for its customers.



Voltalia is listed in compartment A of the Euronext regulated market in Paris (FR0011995588 - VLTSA) and is part of the SBF 120, EnterNext Tech 40, CAC Mid&Small and Euronext Tech Leaders indices. The company is also included in the Gaia-Index, the index of responsible mid-caps. VOLTALIA

Investor Relations: invest@voltalia.com

T. +33 (0)1 81 70 37 00 SEITOSEI.ACTIFIN

Press Relations: Jennifer Jullia

jjullia@actifin.fr - T. +33 (0)1 56 88 11 11





1 Estimated "normalised EBITDA" at December 31 2023, calculated with an average annual EUR/BRL exchange rate of 6.3 and a wind, solar and hydraulic production corresponding to the long-term average

2 Estimated "normalised EBITDA" at December 31 2027, calculated with an average annual EUR/BRL exchange rate of 5.5 and a wind, solar and hydraulic production corresponding to the long-term average

3 The amounts above are the sum of the consolidated data, rounded to the first decimal place

4 Calculated based on an average EUR/BRL exchange rate of 5.48 in the first half of 2023 compared to 5.55 in the first half of 2022

5 Press release of October 17, 2023

6 Press release of October 23, 2023

7 Press release of October 3, 2023

8 Press release of October 9, 2023

9 Estimated "normalised EBITDA" at December 31 2023, calculated with an average annual EUR/BRL exchange rate of 6.3 and a wind, solar and hydraulic production corresponding to the long-term average

10 Press release of October 9, 2023

11 "Normalised EBITDA" estimated as of December 31, 2027 calculated with an annual average EUR/BRL exchange rate of 5.5 and a wind, solar and hydraulic production corresponding to the long-term average

12 Including solar production of Oiapoque
DANBURY, CT, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. ("Ethan Allen" or the "Company") (NYSE: ETD) today reported its financial and operating results for the fiscal 2024 first quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Farooq Kathwari, Ethan Allen's Chairman, President and CEO commented, "We are pleased to report our financial and operating results for the fiscal 2024 first quarter ended September 30, 2023. Our first quarter consolidated net sales were impacted due to major flooding in our Vermont manufacturing plant and strong prior year results that benefited from delivery of pandemic related written order backlog. Also, as expected, the economy has slowed down. Despite these challenges, we were able to maintain a strong gross margin of 61.1% and an adjusted operating margin of 12.1%. We also continued to generate positive operating cash flow and as of September 30, 2023, we had total cash and investments of $163.2 million and no debt. We paid a special cash dividend of $0.50 per share during August 2023, in addition to our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share. We are also pleased to announce that yesterday our Board approved our regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, payable on November 22, 2023."

Mr. Kathwari continued, "We are celebrating our 91st year and have always focused on the concept of constant reinvention. During the quarter we launched our major initiative of Interior Design Destination. This initiative was launched in our Danbury, CT flagship design center in April 2023 and we are now in the process of launching across our network of 174 design centers in North America over the next four months. This initiative provides us the opportunity to strongly differentiate our enterprise by providing relevant offerings under the umbrella of Classics with a Modern Perspective, strong values and the service of interior design professionals who are utilizing state-of-the-art technology to service clients. We've also made major investments in our North American manufacturing, where we produce about 75% of our products."

"For our first quarter ended September 30, 2023, we delivered consolidated net sales of $163.9 million, which was negatively impacted by approximately $15 million due to the flooding of our Vermont facility. As previously disclosed, our wood furniture manufacturing operations sustained damage from heavy flooding, which resulted in a pre-tax charge of $2.1 million, net of insurance and grant proceeds. We resumed limited operations during the second half of the quarter, and at this time, the majority of our associates are back at work. Although we continue to work through the cleanup and repair, as our work is ongoing, we are pleased to say that we remain open for business in Vermont and are actively working on the production of our customer orders."

"We are proud to celebrate our culture of constant reinvention, excited to start the next phase of Ethan Allen's journey, and pleased to welcome both present and future clients to the Interior Design Destination. While we understand and navigate the challenges of a slower economy and the reduction of consumer focus on the home, we remain cautiously optimistic," concluded Mr. Kathwari.

FISCAL 2024 FIRST QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS*

Consolidated net sales of $163.9 million were lower by 23.6% Retail net sales of $133.6 million were lower by 27.3% Wholesale net sales of $99.4 million were lower by 13.3%

Written order trends Retail segment written orders decreased 13.2% Wholesale segment written orders decreased 15.6%

Consolidated gross margin increased to 61.1%, up from 60.4% a year ago due to favorable product mix and lower input costs including reduced inbound freight and raw material costs, partially offset by lower delivered unit volume and change in sales mix

Operating margin of 11.2%; adjusted operating margin of 12.1% compared with 17.6% last year due to fixed costs deleveraging from lower consolidated net sales and expenses incurred with the launch of the Interior Design Destination initiative including projection, new product display, merchandising and sample costs partially offset by gross margin expansion, lower headcount and the Company's ability to maintain a disciplined approach to cost savings and expense control

Advertising expenses were equal to 2.0% of net sales compared to 2.5% in the prior year first quarter; promotional activity remained disciplined and was comparable to the prior year

Diluted EPS of $0.58 compared with $1.17; adjusted diluted EPS decreased to $0.63 from $1.11; adjusted diluted EPS for the three months ended September 30, 2019 (pre-pandemic) was $0.35

Generated $16.7 million of cash from operating activities compared with $38.4 million a year ago

Paid cash dividends totaling $21.9 million, which included a $0.50 per share special cash dividend and the regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share

Ended the quarter with $163.2 million in cash and investments with no debt outstanding

Reduced inventory carrying levels to $149.6 million as of September 30, 2023, down $18.0 million or 10.8% from a year ago

Named one of America's Top 10 Retailers by Newsweek, including recognition as the #1 retailer of Premium Furniture

Celebrated the launch of Ethan Allen's next reinvention as the Interior Design Destination with several design center grand reopenings during the quarter, with many more scheduled to occur in the coming months

New state-of-the-art design centers in The Villages, FL, Avon, OH and New York, NY were opened

The Company's wood furniture manufacturing plant in Orleans, Vermont sustained significant flooding in July 2023 that lowered shipments by approximately $15 million and resulted in total expenditures of $3.6 million less $1.5 million in insurance recoveries and grant proceeds received from the State of Vermont for a pre-tax charge of $2.1 million; as of September 30, 2023, the majority of associates are back at work and operating capacity is improving with an expected recovery from the delayed shipments in the second and third quarters of fiscal 2024

* See reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial measures in the back of this press release. Comparisons are to the first quarter of fiscal 2023.

KEY FINANCIAL MEASURES*

(Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 % Change Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 (23.6 %) Gross profit $ 100,141 $ 129,616 (22.7 %) Gross margin 61.1 % 60.4 % GAAP operating income $ 18,351 $ 39,650 (53.7 %) Adjusted operating income* $ 19,843 $ 37,692 (47.4 %) GAAP operating margin 11.2 % 18.5 % Adjusted operating margin* 12.1 % 17.6 % GAAP net income $ 14,939 $ 29,880 (50.0 %) Adjusted net income* $ 16,054 $ 28,417 (43.5 %) Effective tax rate 25.6 % 25.3 % GAAP diluted EPS $ 0.58 $ 1.17 (50.4 %) Adjusted diluted EPS* $ 0.63 $ 1.11 (43.2 %) Cash flows from operating activities $ 16,700 $ 38,422 (56.5 %)

* See reconciliation of GAAP to adjusted key financial measures in the back of this press release

BALANCE SHEET and CASH FLOW

Cash and investments totaled $163.2 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $172.7 million at June 30, 2023. The decrease of $9.5 million was primarily due to $21.9 million in cash dividends paid and capital expenditures of $3.7 million as the Company continues to return capital to shareholders and reinvest back into the business. These cash outflows were partially offset by $16.7 million in cash generated from operating activities.

Cash dividends paid were $21.9 million, which included a special cash dividend of $12.7 million, or $0.50 per share, and a regular quarterly cash dividend of $9.2 million, or $0.36 per share, both paid in August 2023.

Cash from operating activities totaled $16.7 million during fiscal 2024, a decrease from $38.4 million in the prior year due to lower net income and less favorable changes in working capital, including timing of insurance renewals and payments of annual incentive compensation.

Inventories, net totaled $149.6 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $149.2 million at June 30, 2023. Inventory balances are down $18.0 million or 10.8% from a year ago as the Company aligns its inventory with incoming order trends while also ensuring appropriate levels are maintained to service customers.

Customer deposits from written orders totaled $77.9 million at September 30, 2023, compared with $77.8 million at June 30, 2023. Wholesale order backlog was $75.4 million at September 30, 2023, down 28.6% from a year ago, but up from $74.0 million at June 30, 2023 due to the timing of incoming contract orders.

No debt outstanding at September 30, 2023.

DIVIDENDS

On August 1, 2023, the Company's Board of Directors declared a $0.50 per share special cash dividend and a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, which were paid on August 31, 2023. Ethan Allen has a long history of returning capital to shareholders and is pleased to pay a special cash dividend, which highlights the Company's strong balance sheet and operating results. Most recently, on October 24, 2023, the Company's Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.36 per share, payable on November 22, 2023, to shareholders of record on November 7, 2023.

CONFERENCE CALL

Ethan Allen will host a conference call with investors and analysts today, October 25, 2023, at 5:00 PM (Eastern Time) to discuss these results. The conference call will be webcast live from the Company's Investor Relations website at https://ir.ethanallen.com.

The following information is provided for those who would like to participate in the conference call:

U.S. Participants: 877-705-2976

International Participants: 201-689-8798

Meeting Number: 13740818





For those unable to listen live, an archived recording of the call will be made available on the Company's website referenced above for up to six months.

ABOUT ETHAN ALLEN

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. (NYSE: ETD) is a leading interior design company, manufacturer and retailer in the home furnishings marketplace. The Company is a global luxury home fashion brand that is vertically integrated from product design through home delivery, which offers its customers stylish product offerings, artisanal quality, and personalized service. The Company provides complimentary interior design service to its clients and sells a full range of home furnishings through a retail network of design centers located throughout the United States and abroad as well as online at ethanallen.com. Ethan Allen owns and operates ten manufacturing facilities located in the United States, Mexico and Honduras, including one sawmill, one rough mill and a lumberyard. Approximately 75% of its products are manufactured or assembled in these North American facilities.

For more information on Ethan Allen's products and services, visit www.ethanallen.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

Matt McNulty

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

IR@ethanallen.com

ABOUT NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

This press release is intended to supplement, rather than to supersede, the Company's consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). In this press release the Company has included financial measures that are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted EPS (collectively "non-GAAP financial measures"). The Company computes these non-GAAP financial measures by adjusting the comparable GAAP measure to remove the impact of certain charges and gains and the related tax effect of these adjustments. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. The Company uses these non-GAAP financial measures for financial and operational decision making and to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. The Company believes that they provide useful information about operating results, enhance the overall understanding of past financial performance and prospects, and allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in its financial and operational decision making. A reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measure reported in accordance with GAAP is provided at the end of this press release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Generally, forward-looking statements represent management's beliefs and assumptions concerning current expectations, projections or trends relating to results of operations, financial results, financial condition, strategic objectives and plans, expenses, dividends, share repurchases, liquidity, use of cash and cash requirements, investments, future economic performance, business and industry and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business operations and financial results. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These forward-looking statements may include words such as "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "project," "plan," "intend," "believe," "continue," "may," "will," "short-term," "target," "outlook," "forecast," "future," "strategy," "opportunity," "would," "guidance," "non-recurring," "one-time," "unusual," "should," "likely," "pandemic," and other words and terms of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of the timing or nature of future operating or financial performance or other events. The Company derives many of its forward-looking statements from operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While the Company believes that its assumptions are reasonable, it cautions that it is very difficult to predict the impact of known factors and it is impossible for the Company to anticipate all factors that could affect actual results and matters that are identified as "short term," "non-recurring," "unusual," "one-time," or other words and terms of similar meaning may in fact recur in one or more future financial reporting periods.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those that are expected. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements due to a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties disclosed in Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors, in the Company's 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K and other factors identified in its reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company, or persons acting on its behalf, are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements, as well as other cautionary statements. A reader should evaluate all forward-looking statements made in this press release in the context of these risks and uncertainties. Given the risks and uncertainties surrounding forward-looking statements, you should not place undue reliance on these statements. Many of these factors are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict. The Company is including this cautionary note to make applicable and take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. 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, except as otherwise required by law.

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 Cost of sales 63,751 84,914 Gross profit 100,141 129,616 Selling, general and administrative expenses 80,298 91,962 Restructuring and other charges, net of gains 1,492 (1,996 ) Operating income 18,351 39,650 Interest and other income, net

1,724 341 Income before income taxes 20,075 39,991 Income tax expense 5,136 10,111 Net income $ 14 , 939 $ 29 , 880 Net income per diluted share $ 0.58 $ 1.17 Diluted weighted average common shares 25,618 25,560

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (In thousands) September 30, June 30, ASSETS 2023 2023 Current assets Cash and cash equivalents $ 56,888 $ 62,130 Investments 106,284 110,577 Accounts receivable, net 11,053 11,577 Inventories, net 149,623 149,195 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 28,950 25,974 Total current assets 352,798 359,453 Property, plant and equipment, net 221,504 222,167 Goodwill 25,388 25,388 Intangible assets 19,740 19,740 Operating lease right-of-use assets 117,332 115,861 Deferred income taxes 655 640 Other assets 2,146 2,204 Total ASSETS $ 7 39 , 563 $ 745,453 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 29,633 $ 28,565 Customer deposits 77,928 77,765 Accrued compensation and benefits 20,579 23,534 Current operating lease liabilities 26,530 26,045 Other current liabilities 10,272 7,188 Total current liabilities 164,942 163,097 Operating lease liabilities, long-term 105,102 104,301 Deferred income taxes 3,066 3,056 Other long-term liabilities 3,897 3,993 Total LIABILITIES $ 27 7 , 00 7 $ 274,447 Shareholders' equity Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. shareholders' equity $ 462,584 $ 471,028 Noncontrolling interests (28 ) (22 ) Total shareholders' equity $ 462,556 $ 471,006 Total LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY $ 7 39 ,5 6 3 $ 745,453



Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement the financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, the Company uses non-GAAP financial measures, including adjusted operating income and margin, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted earnings per share. The reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP are shown in tables below.

These non-GAAP measures are derived from the consolidated financial statements but are not presented in accordance with GAAP. The Company believes these non-GAAP measures provide a meaningful comparison of its results to others in its industry and prior year results. Investors should consider these non-GAAP financial measures in addition to, and not as a substitute for, its financial performance measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Moreover, these non-GAAP financial measures have limitations in that they do not reflect all the items associated with the operations of the business as determined in accordance with GAAP. Other companies may calculate similarly titled non-GAAP financial measures differently than the Company does, limiting the usefulness of those measures for comparative purposes. Despite the limitations of these non-GAAP financial measures, the Company believes these adjusted financial measures and the information they provide are useful in viewing its performance using the same tools that management uses to assess progress in achieving its goals. Adjusted measures may also facilitate comparisons to historical performance.

The following tables below provide a reconciliation of non-GAAP financial measures used in this release to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures.

(Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) Three months ended September 30, 2023 2022 % Change Consolidated Adjusted Operating Income / Operating Margin GAAP Operating income $ 18,351 $ 39,650 (53.7 %) Adjustments (pre-tax)* 1,492 (1,958 ) Adjusted operating income* $ 19 , 843 $ 37 , 692 (47.4 %) Consolidated Net sales $ 163,892 $ 214,530 (23.6 %) GAAP Operating margin 11.2 % 18.5 % Adjusted operating margin* 12.1 % 17.6 % Consolidated Adjusted Net Income / Adjusted Diluted EPS GAAP Net income $ 14,939 $ 29,880 (50.0 %) Adjustments, net of tax* 1,115 (1,463 ) Adjusted net income $ 16 , 054 $ 28 , 417 (43.5 %) Diluted weighted average common shares 25,618 25,560 GAAP Diluted EPS $ 0.58 $ 1.17 (50.4 %) Adjusted diluted EPS* $ 0.63 $ 1.11 (43.2 %)



* Adjustments to reported GAAP financial measures including operating income and margin, net income and diluted EPS have been adjusted by the following: (Unaudited) Three months ended (In thousands) September 30, 2023 2022 Orleans, Vermont flood $ 2,096 $ - Gain on sale-leaseback transaction (655 ) (2,257 ) Severance and other charges 51 299 Adjustments to operating income $ 1,492 $ (1,958 ) Related income tax effects on non-recurring items(1) (377 ) 495 Adjustments to net income $ 1,115 $ (1,463 )

(1) Calculated using the marginal tax rate for each period presented




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!

BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - Siemens Energy AG (SMEGF.PK SMNEY.PK) said its financial results for fiscal 2023 are expected to be fully in line with guidance. The company issued the statement in light of recent media reports regarding talks with the German government. The Executive Board of Siemens Energy is in preliminary talks with stakeholders, including banking partners and the German government, to ensure access to an increasing volume of guarantees necessary to facilitate the anticipated strong growth. Siemens Energy said former Gas and Power businesses are on track to achieve their mid-term targets. As Siemens Gamesa is for the time being not concluding new contracts for certain onshore platforms and is applying strict selectivity in the offshore business, order intake and revenue are expected to be lower than market expectations for fiscal 2024, and net losses and cash outflow are projected to be higher than market forecasts, the company said. 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.
Dole plc (NYSE: DOLE) will announce its financial results for the third quarter of 2023 on Thursday, November 16, 2023, prior to the market opening. The company's management will host a webcast and conference call on the same day at 08:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

A presentation to accompany the discussion will be posted on the company website along with a press release and other supplemental financial information.

The live webcast and a replay after the event can be accessed at www.doleplc.com/investor-relations

The conference call can be accessed live by dialling (646) 307-1963 in the US or +353 (1) 582 2023 in Ireland and +44 20 3481 4247 for UK and other international participants. The conference ID is 6406315.

About Dole plc:

A global leader in fresh produce, Dole plc grows, markets, and distributes an extensive variety of fresh fruits and vegetables sourced locally and from around the world. Dedicated and passionate in exceeding our customers' requirements in over 75 countries, our goal is to make the world a healthier and a more sustainable place.

Category: Financial

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026769073/en/

Contacts:

Investor Contact:

James O'Regan, Head of Investor Relations, Dole plc

investors@doleplc.com

+353 1 887 2794

Media Contact:

Brian Bell, Ogilvy

brian.bell@ogilvy.com

+353 87 2436 130
This edition charts our continued progress in sustainably advancing corporate ESG, agriculture and construction. Now available online at:bit.ly/CNH_ASY_8.

Basildon, October 26, 2023

CNH demonstrates its commitment to a sustainable future with the eighth edition of A Sustainable Year. This digital magazine features innovation and sustainability developments from the past year. Read about how we rolled out our priorities, diligently working to meet our sustainability goals.

A Sustainable Year complements the publication of our latest Sustainability Report. This edition focuses on key priorities for the Company: Carbon Footprint; Circularity & Eco-Efficiency; and Inclusion, Equity & Engagement.

By examining our progress in these areas, we spotlight its positive impact - from supporting local communities around the world through education and youth training, to empowering our employees. From R&D, we showcase our New Holland brand's T7 LNG Methane Power Tractor; the first dynamic simulator for agriculture; and our electrified agriculture and construction machinery. Investments in agronomic tech, advancements in automation, and excellence in remanufacturing are also demonstrated.

The publication includes thought leadership pieces from industry and academic experts who also provide insight on implementing sustainable practices.

All the stories in A Sustainable Year are a testament to CNH's role in sustainably advancing the noble work of farmers and builders. Our achievements continue to be recognized with inclusion in the Top 1% of the S&P Global ESG Score 2022 and our continued place in the CDP annual A-List for our efforts to tackle climate change.

Download the latest edition of the A Sustainable Year series in PDF at: bit.ly/CNH_ASY_8_PDF

Peruse the interactive digital magazine at: bit.ly/CNH_ASY_8

CNH Industrial (NYSE: CNHI / MI: CNHI) is a world-class equipment and services company. Driven by its purpose of Breaking New Ground, which centers on Innovation, Sustainability and Productivity, the Company provides the strategic direction, R&D capabilities, and investments that enable the success of its global and regional Brands. Globally, Case IH and New Holland Agriculture supply 360 agriculture applications from machines to implements and the digital technologies that enhance them; and CASE and New Holland Construction Equipment deliver a full lineup of construction products that make the industry more productive. The Company's regionally focused Brands include: STEYR, for agricultural tractors; Raven, a leader in digital agriculture, precision technology and the development of autonomous systems; Hemisphere, a leading designer and manufacturer of high-precision satellite-based positioning and heading technologies; Flexi-Coil, specializing in tillage and seeding systems; Miller, manufacturing application equipment; Kongskilde, providing tillage, seeding and hay & forage implements; and Eurocomach, producing a wide range ofmini and midi excavators for the construction sector, including electric solutions.

Across a history spanning over two centuries, CNH Industrial has always been a pioneer in its sectors and continues to passionately innovate and drive customer efficiency and success. As a truly global company, CNH Industrial's 40,000+ employees form part of a diverse and inclusive workplace, focused on empowering customers to grow, and build, a better world.

For more information and the latest financial and sustainability reports visit: cnhindustrial.com

For news from CNH Industrial and its Brands visit: media.cnhindustrial.com

Media contacts:

Rebecca Fabian Alex Ellis North America United Kingdom Tel. +1 312 515 2249 Tel. +44 (0)758 106 1696

mediarelations@cnhind.com

Attachments
Statkraft has acquired two companies in onshore and offshore wind power: Njordr Offshore Wind AB, which develops offshore wind power and Svevind Nordic AB, a development company in onshore wind power. With the purchase, Statkraft underlines its ambitions to continue the Swedish growth journey in renewable energy and contribute to the energy transition.



Svevind Nordic AB

Svevind Nordic currently has 16 employees with high competence in project development, mainly within onshore wind power. The company also has a development project pipeline that is included in the acquisition. The development projects are in electricity pricing zone SE1 and SE2 with a total potential installed capacity of more than 16 000 MW. The project that is most developed is Hastliden with 600 MW that is currently with the Swedish government for necessary approvals. The intention is to fully integrate Svevind Nordic into Statkraft's operations.

- We are tremendously happy to be able to strengthen our operations with a group of extremely competent employees who, together with the project portfolio, will make an important contribution to our ambitions to grow in onshore wind power and not least to the industrial development in Northern Sweden, says Jakob Norstrom, CEO of Statkraft Sweden.

- We are very proud that our Swedish team, with its unique expertise and experience gained over the years, will support such an important energy company as Statkraft in the future. In Statkraft, Svevind Nordic gets a strong owner who can continue the important work we have done and progress the project pipeline while providing for a continued positive work environment for the employees, says Wolfgang Kropp, founder and CEO of SVEVIND Energy Group. He adds: Even if the career paths of long-time companions and colleagues part ways today, it feels right and beneficial for all parties.

Njordr Offshore Wind AB

Njordr Offshore Wind, a joint venture between Njordr and Vindkraft Varmland, has developed a portfolio of early-stage offshore wind power projects. In addition, there is a team on site that can take the projects forth to delivery.

- The Nordic countries to a large extent form a common energy market. With an estimated need for a doubling of the electricity supply by 2045, Sweden is of particular interest for us. It fits well with our strategic ambition to grow within offshore wind with an ambition to have 10 GW in operation in Europe by 2040. This deal comprises an attractive portfolio which gives Statkraft the opportunity to contribute to delivering more renewable energy to Sweden, one of our focus markets, says David Flood, Senior Vice President Offshore Wind at Statkraft.

The portfolio includes nine projects located in the Swedish part of the Western Sea, the Baltic Sea, the Bothnian Sea and the Gulf of Bothnia. The total potential capacity of the projects is approx. 21 000 MW with an expected annual production of over 80 TWh per year. As part of the company's strategy to grow significantly in wind power, Statkraft is planning considerable investments in offshore wind power in Sweden going forward.

- Njordr Offshore Wind has been a pioneer within offshore wind in Sweden, establishing a strong project team and a significant project pipeline by utilizing the project origination expertise of Vindkraft Varmland. This transaction validates Njordr's strategy and how we are able to realise significant value from taking early positions, says Anders Hrland, chairman of the board of Njordr.

Work is now starting to integrate Svevind Nordic and Njordr Offshore Wind into Statkraft's operations. The Svevind brand will remain for other operations that the Svevind Group conducts outside of Sweden. The Njordr Group also has operations in onshore wind and solar power in Sweden, Norway and Finland. These activities are not covered by the transaction.

About SVEVIND Energy Group

The SVEVIND Energy Group is a European project developer with more than 30 years of experience in the renewable energy sector. The group, founded by Wolfgang Kropp and headquartered in Dresden, Germany, plans, develops, and markets renewable energy projects. In northern Sweden, the groups subsidiary SVEVIND developed Europe's largest onshore wind farm - the MARKBYGDEN 1101 project. The project is scheduled for completion in 2026 and will have a capacity of 3.4 gigawatts. Currently, wind turbines with a total capacity of 2,000 MW are in operation within MARKBYGDEN 1101. With its newest project Hyrasia one the SVEVIND Energy Group is focusing on developing large scale green hydrogen production projects in the vast steppe regions of Kazakhstan in Central Asia.

About Njordr Offshore Wind

Njordr Offshore Wind AB, based in Karlstad, Sweden, is a wind power company that identifies and develops offshore wind power. The company has built an effective interdisciplinary team that, with broad competence and short decision-making paths, is ready to contribute to a large-scale green energy transition in the Nordics.

About Statkraft

Statkraft is a leading company in hydropower internationally and Europe's largest generator of renewable energy. The Group produces hydropower, wind power, solar power, gas-fired power and supplies district heating. Statkraft is a global company in energy market operations. Statkraft has 5,700 employees in 21 countries.



For further information, please contact:

Lars Magnus Gunther, Press spokesperson Statkraft AS

+47 91 24 16 36

lars.gunther@statkraft.com



Mikael Petrovic Wagmark, Communication Manager, Statkraft Sweden

+46 72 213 98 50

mikael.petrovicwagmark@statkraft.com

Attachment
IHS Holding Limited (NYSE: IHS) ("IHS Towers"), one of the largest independent owners, operators, and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count, has today announced a one-year partnership with the Limitless Space Institute (LSI), a non-profit education and research organization. This partnership will commence in January 2024 and is designed to help broaden access to space education in our two largest markets.

Through this collaboration, 20 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educators from Brazil and Nigeria will be invited to join the 12-month Limitless Global Educator Program and access a carefully curated space education curriculum. Delivered by experts from the Limitless Space Institute, educators will benefit from monthly virtual workshops with insights from guest speakers on space exploration and science, an invitation to attend the LSI Summer Institute in Houston, Texas, for one week and in-person visits from Limitless Space Institute representatives to Brazil and Nigeria for hands-on workshops.

The selected educators will be enrolled in the Limitless Global Educator Program and have access to tailored content in the Space Education Curriculum developed by the experts from the Limitless Space Institute. This curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including the significance of space exploration, the science underpinning space, its history, the economics of space, as well as sustainable exploration and space ethics. Through this program, teachers will be better equipped to inspire their students and new generations about the wonders and intricacies of space.

Applications open November 1st, 2023, via the Limitless Space Institute website, https://www.limitlessspace.org/global-educators/, and will close on December 6th, 2023.

Sam Darwish, Chairman CEO, IHS Towers, said "I am incredibly excited to announce our partnership with the Limitless Space Institute as we seek to continue strengthening education opportunities with a particular focus on increasing access to STEM subjects. Engineering excellence is IHS' lifeblood, and we could not be prouder to support the Limitless Space Institute's mission to equip educators globally with the resources and experiences they need to teach science and technology. We hope that by partnering with the Limitless Space Institute we can contribute to bringing this exciting specialization to educators in Brazil and Nigeria, empowering them to spark a passion among their students on the wonders of engineering and space exploration."

Kaci Heins, Director of the Limitless Space Institute, commented "We are thrilled to collaborate with IHS Towers in our pursuit to elevate global STEM education. Our mission is not just to educate, but to inspire the next generation to extend their exploration beyond our solar system. Educators and students are the heart of the future STEM workforce and space exploration. Equipped with the right resources, educators are poised to bring students to space-centric STEM disciplines. An energized educator lights the path for our future explorers. Space exploration, at its heart, stands for global unity and cooperation, which is pivotal for the collective advancement of humanity."

Marco Antonio Chamon, President of the Brazilian Space Agency, said "I would like to congratulate IHS Towers and the Limitless Space Institute for their outstanding initiative in advancing STEM education on space-related topics for educators in both Brazil and Nigeria. It is crucial that space activities occupy a prominent position in the hearts and minds of the public, and education serves as the most direct way to accomplish this goal. The Brazilian Space Agency is proud to support this initiative in Brazil."

About IHS Towers

IHS Towers is one of the largest independent owners, operators and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count and is one of the largest independent multinational towercos solely focused on the emerging markets. The Company has nearly 40,000 towers across its 11 markets, including Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Kuwait, Nigeria, Peru, Rwanda, South Africa and Zambia. For more information, please email: communications@ihstowers.com or visit: https://www.ihstowers.com/br-pt

About Limitless Space Institute

Limitless Space Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire and educate the next generation to travel beyond our solar system and to research and develop enabling technologies. LSI advances the pursuit of relevant deep space exploration R&D through the following student-engaging programs:

Internal R&D: pursuing in-house basic research at the Eagleworks Laboratories near Johnson Space Center.

External R&D: directly funding academia-led R&D projects through Grants.

Collaborative R&D: advancing research in collaboration with university partners.

Scholarships Fellowships: awarding scholarships for undergraduate, graduate, and postdoc students.

Limitless Education: International educator professional development programming, space education curriculum development, k-12 grants for STEM education initiatives, and STEM education outreach.

For more information, please visit: https://www.limitlessspace.org/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026007893/en/

Contacts:

communications@ihstowers.com
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Thesis Gold Inc. (TSXV: TAU) (WKN: A3EP87) (OTCQX: THSGF) ("Thesis" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the following changes to the Company's Board of Directors.

Mr. Peter Gundy has resigned as a director of the Company, effective immediately, to pursue other interests. We thank him for his contributions and wish him all the best in his future endeavors. He will be succeeded by Ms. Lisa Peterson who will join the Company as an independent director and chair of the audit committee.

Ewan Webster, President and CEO, shared, "On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Peter for his contributions to the Company. I am delighted to welcome Lisa to the Company, who brings a wealth of financial expertise across the resource sector. We look forward to her contributions as the Company continues to execute its strategy and focuses on delivering shareholder returns."

Ms. Peterson brings over 15 years of finance, accounting, and governance expertise across mining, renewable energy, and professional services industries. As the CFO of a TSX listed gold development Company and previously TSX-V listed mineral exploration companies, she has showcased her financial leadership. Ms. Peterson's prior roles before serving as a CFO included Vice-President of Corporate Reporting and Global Accounting at a renewable energy group of Companies and Chief of Staff Capital Projects at Barrick Gold Corporation. She led KGHM's international Corporate Reporting group prior to joining Barrick and started her career at KPMG LLP. Ms. Peterson is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) and received a BBA from Simon Fraser University.

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.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Thesis Gold Inc.

"Ewan Webster"

Ewan Webster Ph.D., P.Geo.

President, CEO, and Director

About Thesis Gold Inc.

Thesis Gold, following its strategic merger with Benchmark Metals, is unlocking the combined potential of the Ranch and Lawyers Gold-Silver Projects in the Toodoggone mining district of north-central British Columbia, Canada. The 2022 Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Lawyers Project alone projected an open-pit mining operation that would yield 163,000 gold equivalent ounces annually over a 12-year span. The Company is now evaluating the integration of the Ranch project, aiming to enhance these figures and bolster the overall potential. Central to this ambition is the 50,000-metre drill program, designed to define the high-grade underground resource at Lawyers and augment the near-surface high-grade deposits at Ranch. The Company's roadmap includes the release of a global Company resource estimate by Q2 2024, followed by an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment in Q3 2024. Through these strategic initiatives, Thesis Gold aspires to rise to the forefront of global precious metals ventures.

For further information or investor relations inquiries, please contact:

Dave Burwell

Vice President Corporate Development

Email: daveb@thesisgold.com

Tel: 403-410-7907

Toll Free: 1-888-221-0915

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, without limitation, statements regarding the Offering, intended use of proceeds from the Offering, and the future plans or prospects of the Company. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to business, market, and economic risks, uncertainties, and contingencies that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Other factors which could materially affect such forward-looking information are described in the risk factors in the Company's most recent annual management's discussion and analysis, which is available on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca . The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185225
LAUSANNE, Switzerland, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fapon, a leading life sciences company, entered into a strategic cooperation agreement with two Swiss biotech companies LASCCO SA and Abionic SA, that granted Fapon an exclusive license to utilize the pancreatic stone protein (PSP) biomarker for sepsis diagnosis in China. This strategic partnership will enable Fapon to engage in the research, development, manufacturing, and commercialization of PSP raw materials and chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)-based reagent solutions within the Chinese market. PSP, as a reliable biomarker to predict sepsis, has been patented in many countries. The PSP immunoassay has obtained CE mark approval under the In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices (IVDR) regulations, Australian registration, and FDA 510(k) clearance is expected in 2024. By leveraging their respective expertise in technology, medicine and market, the three companies will join forces in the rapid screening and clinical diagnosis of sepsis, as well as providing guidelines for antibiotic use.

This strategic partnership will usher in a significant breakthrough in the medical field, removing barriers to early sepsis diagnosis. Performing PSP testing on high-risk individuals can flag potential sepsis before the onset of clinical symptoms. Early detection enables timely intervention and treatment, leading to reduced risks of organ dysfunction, improved survival rates, and optimized allocation of medical resources.

Sepsis a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, which can progress to multiple organ dysfunction, septic shock and even death. Research shows that every hour of delay in the administration of antibiotics increases the chances of mortality by 7% to 10% [1]. However, the early warning signs and symptoms of sepsis, such as fever, chills, nausea, fatigue, pain, etc., are generic and non-specific, making it extremely challenging to differentiate sepsis from other conditions. Currently, the diagnosis of sepsis in clinical practice often relies on either "infection/suspected infection + scoring systems (qSOFA/SOFA/NEWS)" or the detection of biomarkers such as C-reactive protein (CRP). However, these methods cannot meet the clinical needs for early diagnosis of sepsis as they have major limitations.

PSP, an acute-phase reactant, is secreted by pancreatic acinar cells. Its level is closely associated with the presence and severity of sepsis. Sufficient evidence has shown that PSP exhibits great accuracy as an early warning sign of sepsis. The PSP level in the blood shows a significant upward trend three days prior to the clinical diagnosis of sepsis[2,3]. Even in inflammatory confounding situations such as sterile inflammation and inhalation injury in burnt patients or post-trauma and post-surgery inflammatory host responses, PSP is able to specifically recognize disease regardless of other inflammatory factors[4,5]. Therefore, PSP is a reliable early marker of sepsis. Moreover, the use of rapid point-of-care (POC) tests to measure PSP levels presents a significant advantage for patients who need intensive sepsis risk management. By quickly delivering accurate results, this POC test empowers physicians to promptly start appropriate treatments, ultimately increasing patient survival rates.

Fapon is dedicated to advancing the discovery and research of innovative biomarkers, with the goal of accelerating the transition of such markers to clinical applications. Obtaining the PSP license for the diagnosis of sepsis will further enhance Fapon's potential for innovative applications in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. PSP has been widely acclaimed by physicians and patients across the United States, Europe, Australia, Switzerland, and other countries. Through this partnership, Fapon will promptly bring to market PSP raw materials and reagent solutions for CLIA platforms. The objective is to contribute to the early screening of sepsis and developing more clinical applications, and offer swifter and improved solutions to septic patients in China.

Committed to bringing earlier, more accurate, more convenient, and more accessible innovative diagnostic applications to the IVD industry and patients, Fapon is making every effort to develop a one-stop biomarker solution for neurology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, obstetrics, metabolism, and oncology.

Reference

Kumar A, et al. Initiation of inappropriate antimicrobial therapy results in a fivefold reduction of survival in human septic shock. Chest. 2009 Nov;136(5):1237-1248. Niggemann P, et al. Incidence and Time Point of Sepsis Detection as Related to Different Sepsis Definitions in Severely Burned Patients and Their Accompanying Time Course of Pro-Inflammatory Biomarkers. J Pers Med. 2021 Jul 23;11(8):701. Klein HJ, et al. Pancreatic Stone Protein Predicts Sepsis in Severely Burned Patients Irrespective of Trauma Severity: A Monocentric Observational Study. Ann Surg. 2021 Dec 1;274(6):e1179-e1186. Klein HJ, et al. Expression of Pancreatic Stone Protein is Unaffected by Trauma and Subsequent Surgery in Burn Patients. World J Surg. 2020 Sep;44(9):3000-3009. Gukasjan R, et al. Pancreatic stone protein predicts outcome in patients with peritonitis in the ICU. Crit. Care Med 2013 Apr;41(4):1027-36.

About FAPON

Fapon is a global leading life sciences company dedicated to providing integrated solutions and services for diagnostics, biopharma and biotherapy. Integrating a one-stop solution on raw materials, reagents and innovative open instrument platforms, the Company has grown into a leading supplier in in-vitro diagnostics. Fapon boasts advanced innovations in therapeutics technologies and AI algorithm platforms with data insights that contribute to a better and healthier world. Supported by its strong global R&D, manufacturing, sales and service network, Fapon's products have established presence in 68 countries and regions, serving more than 2,500 business partners worldwide.

Follow us on LinkedIn (Fapon) or visit our website www.faponbiotech.com.

About ABIONIC

Abionic, which was awarded with the Swiss Medtech Award 2023, commercializes a revolutionary nanofluidic technology that provides healthcare professionals with a fast, simple and universal diagnostic tool. Abionic's cutting-edge nanotechnology enhances the efficiency and versatility of standard ELISA tests to provide optimal point-of-care (POC) treatment options by reducing current biological measurement techniques from the macroscopic to the nanoscale in a multi-analyte environment.

Abionic's in vitro diagnostics platform delivers ultra-fast, laboratory-quality results from a single drop of patient sample to the POC, enabling personalized diagnostics and opening the window of opportunity for immediate treatment. The company is mainly active in acute and primary care.

About LASCCO

LASCCO SA is a biomedical-technology company based at the Biopole of Lausanne, Switzerland. The primary objective of LASCCO is to develop promising discovery-stage therapeutics and diagnostics stemming from research institute labs up to advanced clinical stage. LASCCO has developed in-depth expertise in the fields of critical care and emergency medicine, and its portfolio is currently composed of innovative products aiming at fighting sepsis and treating severe bacterial and viral infections.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/fapon-lascco-abionic-formed-strategic-collaboration-for-psp-sepsis-diagnosis-in-china-301968690.html
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 Wire's 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/20231026187905/en/

LE HAVRE, France -- The CLASS40 IBSA Ready for the Transat Jacques Vabre Issuer: IBSA

BOISE, Idaho -- Albertsons Companies Foundation Raises Nearly $6 Million Through Customer Donations to Connect Neighbors in Need with Federal Nutrition Programs Issuer: Albertsons Companies, Inc.

ROSH HA'AYIN, Israel -- Brenmiller Issues ESG Report Issuer: Brenmiller Energy Ltd.

HONG KONG -- Covation Holdings Continues Expansion in Asia Pacific With New Regional Corporate Headquarters Issuer: Covation Holdings Limited

DULUTH, Ga. -- Asbury Automotive Group Named in Best Companies to Work For List by U.S. News World Report Issuer: Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Agilent's Net-Zero Emissions Targets Approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative Issuer: Agilent Technologies Inc.

BOSTON -- BXP Earns Top ESG Ratings in 2023 GRESB Assessment Issuer: BXP

LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- GE Appliances Blue Wave Circles the Globe Issuer: GE Appliances

CANONSBURG, Pa. -- Vision RNG Celebrates Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of Landfill Gas to Renewable Natural Gas Plant at the Meridian Waste Eagle Ridge Landfill in Bowling Green, Missouri Issuer: Vision RNG

NEW YORK -- LaPhair Capital Partners Launches Flagship Venture Capital Fund Dedicated to Social Responsibility Issuer: LaPhair Capital Partners

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Southeastern Grocers bolsters commitment to belonging, inclusion and diversity with new associate resource group championing people of all abilities Issuer: Southeastern Grocers Inc.

OSCEOLA, Ark. -- U. S. Steel's Operations in Arkansas Generated $383.2 Million in Economic Impact Issuer: United States Steel Corporation

CAMDEN, N.J. -- American Water Charitable Foundation and New Jersey American Water Partner with Upstream Alliance to Help Improve Access to Environmental Education in Camden, N.J. Issuer: American Water

MIAMI -- Trivest Introduces Allison Gracer as Director of ESG Issuer: Trivest Partners

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. -- Pacific Life Foundation Awards $75,000 in College Scholarships During September's Life Insurance Awareness Month Issuer: Pacific Life Foundation

CINCINNATI -- Cintas directors named to Most Influential Corporate Board Directors list Issuer: Cintas Corporation

DENVER -- AIR Communities Publishes 2022/2023 Corporate Responsibility Report Issuer: Apartment Income REIT Corp

ACCRA, Ghana -- World Shoe Launches New Factory in Ghana to Manufacture Innovative Footwear Products that Support Global Health Goals Issuer: World Shoe

AARHUS, Denmark -- Stibo Systems Partners with HowGood to Support CPG Manufacturers and Retailers in Sustainability Initiatives Issuer: Stibo Systems

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Hexion Achieves ISCC PLUS Certification Issuer: Hexion Inc.

MELVILLE, N.Y. -- Henry Schein Earns Dual Honors at Ragan's 2023 CSR and Diversity Awards Issuer: Henry Schein, Inc.

WASHINGTON -- Ford, GM, Pepsi, Ball Corp., Rivian, SunPower, and 8 more leading companies call for federal investment in clean aluminum Issuer: Industrious Labs

SAN FRANCISCO -- Sonen Capital Announces Strategic Minority Investment From Macquarie Asset Management Issuer: Sonen Capital

SAN FRANCISCO -- Okta Launches Cybersecurity Workforce Development Initiative to Help Close the Tech and Cybersecurity Skills Gap Issuer: Okta, Inc.

GREENSBORO, N.C. -- Kontoor Brands Surpasses 10 Billion Liter Water Savings Goal Two Years Ahead of Schedule, Thanks to Indigood Program Issuer: Kontoor Brands, Inc.

NEW YORK -- Clarity AI Honored in Fast Company Magazine's 2023 "Brands That Matter" List Issuer: Clarity AI

TOKYO -- ISAP2023: The 15th International Forum for Sustainable Asia and the Pacific: "Accelerating Sustainability Transitions in Asia and the Pacific: The Transformative Potential of Integration, Inclusion and Localisation" Issuer: Institute for Global Environmental Strategies

SPOKANE, Wash. -- PotlatchDeltic Corporation Issues 2022 Carbon and Climate Report Issuer: PotlatchDeltic Corporation

SAN FRANCISCO -- Resilience in Action: Splunk Releases 2023 Global Impact Report Issuer: Splunk Inc.

TOKYO PARIS OKLAHOMA CITY HOUSTON -- Global Energy and Chemical Leaders Partner to Develop a Large-Scale, Low-Carbon Ammonia Production Export Project on the Houston Ship Channel Issuer: LSB Industries, Inc.

ZURICH -- RepRisk data shows increase in greenwashing with one in three greenwashing public companies also linked to social washing Issuer: RepRisk

NEW YORK -- Morgan Stanley at Work Launches Charitable Giving Solution to Further Enhance Comprehensive Suite of Workplace Offerings Issuer: Morgan Stanley

SEATTLE -- For Back to School, MOD Pizza Launches Fall Fundraiser Program, Offering $1,000 Bonus Prizes to Local School Organizations Issuer: MOD Super-Fast Pizza Holdings, LLC

PARIS -- Teleperformance Named Among the Top 10 Best Workplaces in Europe Issuer: Teleperformance

HOUSTON -- Trace Carbon Solutions and Molpus Woodlands Group Announce the Evergreen Sequestration Hub in Louisiana Issuer: Molpus Woodlands Group

KENNESAW, Ga. -- Yamaha Rightwaters, Georgia Southern University Launch New Initiative to Analyze the Role of Restored Oyster Reefs for Carbon Sequestration Issuer: Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit

BEAVERTON, Ore. -- Digimarc Named to Fortune's 2023 Change the World List Issuer: Digimarc Corporation

ONTARIO, Calif. -- Prime Healthcare and its Hospitals are Nationally Recognized by the Lown Institute as among America's Most Socially Responsible Healthcare Providers Issuer: Prime Healthcare

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Nextech3D.AI (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), a Generative AI-Powered 3D model supplier for Amazon, P&G, Kohls and other major e-commerce retailers is pleased to announce it has signed an enterprise 3D modeling contract with Kabbani Furniture, a major furniture retailer in Egypt. With 4 main branches, 18 Sub-branches, 7 factories, and over 2000 employees in 7 different governorates, Kabbani Furniture is considered the number 1 furniture seller and manufacturer in Egypt.

Kabbani Furniture's initial purchase order is for 500 3D models, which represents a small fraction of total SKU's. This deal also represents a significant growth opportunity, with the potential to grow with Kabbani's large network of retailers.



Nextech3D.AI is at the forefront of the growing 3D modeling industry. With its cutting edge generative-AI technology, the Company is able to create photo-realistic 4K 3D models that cater to the specific needs of major e-commerce giants including Amazon and others.

Recent News

Nextech3D.ai Launches Augmented Reality Games In Its New AR Powered Mobile App for Trade Show Organizers

Nextech3D.ai Launches Revolutionary Augmented Reality Wayfinding Mobile App For Trade Shows and Event Organizers

Nextech3D.ai Provides Business Updates On Its Business Units Powered by ?AI, 3D, AR, ?and ML

Sign up for Investor News and Info - Click Here

About Nextech3D.ai

Nextech3D.ai or the "Company," (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), is a versatile augmented reality and AI technology company that utilizes its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) to craft immersive 3D experiences at scale for E-COMMERCE. The Company's primary focus lies in creating high-quality 3D WebAR photorealistic models for Amazon and various other online retailers. Nextech3D.ai has adopted a unique approach to creating shareholder value beyond its operating business of creating 3D models.

The Company also develops or acquires disruptive AI-technologies, which are subsequently spun out to shareholders as standalone public companies. This spin-out strategy allows Nextech3D.ai to issue stock dividends to its shareholders while maintaining significant ownership in the public spin-out, without dilution to the parent company Nextech3D.ai.

Notably, Nextech3D.ai successfully spun out "ARway," (OTCQB:ARWYF)(CSE:ARWY)(FSE:E65) its spatial computing platform, as a standalone public company on October 26, 2022. The Company retains a 49% stake with 13 million shares in ARway Corp. while distributing 4 million shares to Nextech shareholders.

Similarly, Nextech3D.ai accomplished its second spin-out launching Toggle3D.ai, (OTCQB:TGGLF)(CSE: TGGL)(FSE:Q0C) an AI-powered 3D design studio aimed at competing with Adobe. The Company retains a 44% stake with 13 million shares in Toggle3D.ai Corp.

To learn more, please follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or visit our website: https://www.Nextechar.com.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations Contact

Julia Viola

investor.relations@nextechar.com

Nextech3D.ai

Evan Gappelberg

CEO and Director

866-ARITIZE (274-8493)

Forward-looking Statements

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "will be" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the completion of the transaction are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as 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. Nextech will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: Nextech3D.ai

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796512/nextech3dai-signs-new-3d-modeling-contract-with-top-luxury-furniture-company-kabbani-furniture
COQUITLAM, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid Battery") (TSXV:CELL)(OTCQB:EVKRF)(FRA:NMK2) announces that its exploration team has just visited Volt Canyon Property in Lander County, Nevada, approximately 50 kilometres west of Eureka, Nevada.

At the Volt Canyon Lithium Project, the Company contracted the services of Rangefront Geological ("Rangefront") to perform a detailed soil sampling on a 100 m X 100 m spacing as a first phase of the Company's exploration plan on site. The Company proposes to use the results of these soil samples, together with a planned second-phase exploration program involving geophysical surveys of the property, to help predict geological structure and possible locations for lithium accumulation. Once the first two phases of this exploration program at Volt Canyon have been successfully completed, the Company will determine the next steps for its overall exploration plan. This may include, but is not limited to, a subsequent drilling program.

Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments "Once we receive the results from the assay lab, we will use this information and plan our next steps at Volt Canyon. This is a very exciting time for our shareholders and company. It will be great to realize the potential of this new area of Nevada for lithium that has not previously been extensively explored by others in the past."

Volt Canyon Property Images and Grid Qualified Person, Mr. Seth Cude, P.G.

Soil Samples (100 X 100M Grid) (Volt Canyon Lithium Project)

About Rangefront Geological

Elko Nevada-based Rangefront Geological has combined in-depth expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide mining consulting services, contract labor, field crew services, and vehicular support to the mining industry. With services available across North America, Rangefront works closely with its clients to provide high-quality mineral exploration services.

Qualified Person

Mr. Seth Cude, P.G. is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information contained within this news release.

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),(OTCQX: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: info@gridbatterymetals.com

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:https://www.accesswire.com/796597/grid-battery-metals-exploration-team-on-site-at-the-volt-canyon-nevada-lithium-project
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) ("CanAlaska" or the "Company") is pleased to report the results from its Annual General & Special Meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting") held October 25, 2023. A total of 43,907,679 common shares of the Company were represented at the Meeting, being approximately 35% of the Company's issued and outstanding shares. Shareholders approved all matters brought before the Meeting, including re-appointing Deloitte LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the Company's auditor and approving the continued use of the Company's Omnibus Plan, the proposed Arrangement (see below) and the proposed Core Nickel Corp. stock option plan. In addition, Cory Belyk, Peter Dasler, Amb. Thomas Graham, Jr., Geoffrey Gaye, Karen Lloyd and Jean Luc Roy were all re-elected as directors for the ensuing year.

The Company received over 99% shareholder approval for the spinout of the Company's Halfway Lake, Resting Lake, Hunter, Odei River and Mel properties (collectively, the "Nickel Properties") totalling 36,174 hectares (Figure 1), and $1,000,000 cash (together with the Nickel Properties, the "Assets"), to its shareholders by way of a share capital reorganization effected through a statutory plan of arrangement (the "Arrangement"). Under the Arrangement, CanAlaska will transfer the Assets to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Core Nickel Corp. ("Core Nickel"), in consideration for approximately 25,000,000 Core Nickel common shares. The Core Nickel shares will then be distributed to CanAlaska's shareholders pro rata to their interest in CanAlaska. Upon completion of the Arrangement, CanAlaska's shareholders will own shares in two reporting companies: Core Nickel, which will focus on developing the Nickel Properties, and CanAlaska, which will continue to retain an interest in over 25 separate property packages and will focus on the development of its uranium properties.

Cory Belyk, CanAlaska's CEO & President, stated, "The overwhelming support from our shareholders is a clear vote of confidence in our strategic vision and benefits of the Core Nickel Spinout transaction. The approval allows CanAlaska to move forward with plans to continue to create additional value for our shareholders by unlocking the value of the Nickel Properties. CanAlaska's shareholders will now own shares in two public companies that are focussed on different critical metals including uranium for clean energy generation and nickel for storage and delivery of that clean energy to the end-user. Additional nickel resources must be discovered, and the Thompson Nickel Belt in Manitoba is an underexplored tier 1 nickel jurisdiction primed for a major new discovery!"

With shareholder approval now in hand, the next step in the spinout process is to obtain final approval from the Supreme Court of British Columbia at the hearing scheduled for October 31, 2023.

Under the Arrangement, on the closing date, the Company's shareholders of record will receive Core Nickel common shares by way of a share exchange, pursuant to which each existing common share of the Company will be exchanged for one new CanAlaska common share (each, a "New CanAlaska Share") and 0.19987 of a Core Nickel share. Holders of CanAlaska warrants will be entitled to receive one New CanAlaska Share and 0.19987 of a Core Nickel share on exercise of each warrant. Holders of each CanAlaska option will be issued a replacement option to acquire one new CanAlaska Share and 0.19987 of a Core Nickel option with each whole Core Nickel option entitling the holder to acquire one Core Nickel share. No fractional securities will be issued. On completion of the Arrangement, CanAlaska shareholders, warrant holders and option holders will maintain their interest in CanAlaska and will acquire a proportionate interest in Core Nickel. It is intended that Core Nickel will have approximately 25,000,000 common shares issued and outstanding upon completion of the Arrangement. CanAlaska currently has 125,070,842 issued and outstanding common shares. If this number changes prior to completion of the Arrangement, which may occur if outstanding warrants or options are exercised, then the fraction 0.19987 referred to above will be adjusted so that it is the fraction calculated by dividing 25,000,000 by the number of outstanding CanAlaska shares immediately prior to the effective time of the Arrangement.





Figure 1 - Property Locations



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/2864/185260_02ac5693e476c945_002full.jpg

Completion of the Arrangement is subject to a number of remaining conditions, including the following:

(i) the approval of the Supreme Court of British Columbia;

(ii) TSX Venture Exchange final approval for the Arrangement by CanAlaska; and

(iii) Canadian Securities Exchange approval for the listing of the Core Nickel shares upon completion of the Arrangement.

The Arrangement is expected to close in November, 2023. Upon completion of the Arrangement, it is intended that Core Nickel will be managed by Misty Urbatsch, as Chief Executive Officer and President, and Harry Chan, as Chief Financial Officer. Core Nickel's board of directors will be comprised of Misty Urbatsch, Cory Belyk, Karen Lloyd and Shane Shircliff. Changes and additions to the management team and board of Core Nickel may be made thereafter, as needed, as the company moves forward with its exploration projects.

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 of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons (as defined in the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration is available.

About CanAlaska Uranium

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd. (TSXV: CVV) (OTCQX: CVVUF) (FSE: DH7N) holds interests in approximately 350,000 hectares (865,000 acres), in Canada's Athabasca Basin - the "Saudi Arabia of Uranium." CanAlaska's strategic holdings have attracted major international mining companies. CanAlaska is currently working with Cameco and Denison at two of the Company's properties in the Eastern Athabasca Basin. CanAlaska is a project generator positioned for discovery success in the world's richest uranium district. The Company also holds properties prospective for nickel, copper, gold and diamonds. For further information visit www.canalaska.com.

The Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects for this news release is Nathan Bridge, MSc., P. Geo., Vice-President Exploration for CanAlaska Uranium Ltd., who has reviewed and approved its contents.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

"Cory Belyk"

Cory Belyk, P.Geo., FGC

CEO, President and Director

CanAlaska Uranium Ltd.

Contacts:

Cory Belyk, CEO and President

Tel: +1.604.688.3211 x 138

Email: cbelyk@canalaska.com

General Enquiry

Tel: +1.604.688.3211

Email: info@canalaska.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-looking information

All statements included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions made by the Company based on its experience, perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate in the circumstances. In addition, these statements involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will prove inaccurate, certain of which are beyond the Company's control. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, the Company does not intend to revise or update these forward-looking statements after the date hereof or revise them to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185260
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) - Harley-Davidson, Inc. (HOG) Thursday announced 24 percent decline in third-quarter earnings, while revenues were down 6 percent from the previous year. Looking ahead to the full year 2023, the company reaffirmed its outlook. The company reported earnings of $199 million or $1.38 per share for the third quarter, compared to $261 million or $1.78 per share last year. On average, 12 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters expected the company to earn $1.36 per share. Analysts estimates usually exclude special items. Revenue for the quarter declined to $1.549 billion from $1.649 billion a year ago, driven by 9 percent fall in Harley-Davidson Motor Company or HDMC revenues. Wall Street expected $1.36 billion. Jochen Zeitz, Chairman, President and CEO, Harley-Davidson said, 'Against a challenging macro and consumer backdrop, we have been able to achieve a result that preserves profitability at an industry-leading level. In addition, we successfully launched our pinnacle CVO motorcycles, with CVO retail sales up 25%.' Looking ahead to the full year 2023, the company reaffirmed its most recent guidance and continues to expect HDMC revenue growth of flat to 3 percent and an operating income margin of 13.9 to 14.3 percent. HDFS operating income is expected to decline 20 to 25 percent, while LiveWire motorcycle unit sales is still projected to be 600-1,000 and operating loss of $115 to $125 million. Harley-Davidson, Inc. capital investments for the full year is expected to be in a range of $225 to $250 million. 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.
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) - At least 16 people were killed and dozens of others were injured in two mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night. Some reports say the death toll is higher. Hundreds of police officers across the state are on an intensive manhunt for the 40-year-old suspect, Robert Card, whom police say 'should be considered armed and dangerous.' CNN quoted Law enforcement officials in Maine as saying that Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve. The Bowdoin native is said to have mental health issues. The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office has released images of the suspected shooter and his car. 'Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large,' it wrote on Facebook. After a 'vehicle of interest' was found in Lisbon, near Lewiston, police urged all offices in the town to close and people to remain indoors on Thursday. Schools in Lewiston and neighboring districts have canceled classes on Thursday. Reports quoting Lewiston police say the gunman went on a shooting spree at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street, at around 6:56 p.m. ET. The massacre in Lewiston is the latest in the more than 500 mass shootings reported across the country in 2023. For an update about the incident, a press conference has been scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Thursday. 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.
Manuscript describes the unique character of a pancreatic endocrine cell population derived from a non-pluripotent stem cell that closely resembles native islets in composition and in vivo function. Dr. William Rust, CEO of Seraxis, will deliver a lecture at the IPITA-IXA-CTRMS Joint Congress on October 29 at 10:00 a.m. in San Diego entitled "Novel stem cell-derived islet-like clusters potently control rodent blood glycemia". Seraxis will be taking meetings at BIO-Europe, November 6-8, in Munich.

GERMANTOWN, MD / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Seraxis, Inc., a regenerative medicine company developing pancreatic islet replacement therapies to transform the lives of patients with Type 1 and insulin-requiring Type 2 diabetes, today announced the publication in bioRxiv of "Pancreatic Endocrine cell clusters derived from a non-pluripotent stem cell capable of regulating blood glucose in animal models of diabetes." The manuscript describes a novel population of stem cell-derived pancreatic endocrine cell clusters (SR-02) that form functional pancreatic grafts and potently regulate blood glucose levels in animal models. The SR-02 program is the subject of an upcoming IND filing for the treatment of severe recurrent hypoglycemia in patients with T1D. The unique nature of the SR-02 program and the company's clinical goals will be discussed by Dr. William Rust, CEO of Seraxis, at the International Pancreas & Islet Transplantation Association Congress on October 29 in San Diego, and further discussed by Ted Hibben, Chief Corporate Development Officer, at BIO-Europe, November 6-8, in Munich.

Seraxis

"This manuscript is the first description of a novel population of pancreatic endocrine cell clusters with the potential to be best-in-class as a practical cure for children and adults with insulin-requiring diabetes," said William Rust.

ABOUT SERAXIS

Seraxis is bringing transformative cures to the millions of people worldwide struggling with the management and life-threatening complications of T1D and insulin-requiring T2D.

Seraxis' lead program, SR-02, is a novel, off-the-shelf islet replacement therapy slated to enter clinical testing with immunosuppressive therapy in 2024 in patients with severe recurrent hypoglycemia. A follow-on diabetes program, SR-03, is a version of the Seraxis pancreatic clusters altered to be unrecognized by the immune system for use by the broader population of T1D and insulin-requiring T2D without chronic immune suppression.

Seraxis' underlying proprietary technology enables the creation of a pipeline of novel stem cell-derived therapies originating from single donated organs for other indications. The company's lead therapeutic program, SR-02, is manufactured from a stem cell line derived from a human donor pancreas. These cells preferentially re-differentiate into pancreatic clusters containing all the endocrine cells of the native pancreatic islet, and with safety, potency, and manufacturing advantages over embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells.

Seraxis is backed by Frazier Life Sciences, Polaris Partners, Eli Lilly, the JDRF T1D Fund and independent investors. Seraxis manufactures its best-in-class therapeutic pancreatic clusters using scalable, clinically compliant processes in its cGMP facility located in Maryland's I-270 Biotech Corridor.

For more information, please visit www.seraxis.com.

Contact Information

Ted Hibben

Chief Corporate Development Officer

thibben@seraxis.com

SOURCE: Seraxis Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796509/seraxis-announces-publication-of-preclinical-data-for-a-novel-islet-replacement-therapy-and-clinical-candidate-sr-02-for-insulin-requiring-diabetes-oral-presentation-at-ipita
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Fabled Silver Gold Corp. ("Fabled" or the "Company") (TSXV:FCO)(OTCQB:FBSGF)(FSE:7NQ) wishes to provide an update on its previously announced agreement with Kootenay Silver Inc. ("Kootenay") to acquire the Mecatona Property (the "Mecatona Property") located in Chihuahua, Mexico (the "Proposed Transaction") as announced and further described in the Company's press release dated February 21, 2023.

The Company is still attempting to secure the funding required in order to complete the Proposed Transaction. The Company will provide a further update on the closing of the Proposed Transaction in due course.

Closing of the Proposed Transaction is subject to the completion of final documents, final approval of the Exchange, and the receipt of funds required to close the Proposed Transaction.

Extension of 2023 Annual General Meeting

The Company announces that it was granted a six month extension by the British Columbia Registrar of Companies and the Exchange, to the period in which it would be required to hold its Annual General Meeting ("AGM") for the year 2023. The Company must now hold the AGM by June 30, 2024. The Company's management determined that postponing the AGM was in the best interest of its shareholders considering its current funding position and the ongoing Proposed Transaction.

The Company has not yet set an AGM date but will inform its shareholders by a further press release when a date is set.

About Fabled Silver Gold Corp.

Fabled is focused on acquiring and exploring properties in Mexico. The Company has an experienced management team with multiple years of involvement in mining and exploration in Mexico. The Company's mandate is to focus on acquiring precious metal properties in Mexico with blue-sky exploration potential.

The Company has entered into a binding letter of intent with Kootenay Silver Inc. and is seeking to acquire the Mecatona Property located in the Parral Silver Mining District.

Contact Information:

Mr. Peter J. Hawley, President and C.E.O.

Fabled Silver Gold Corp.

Phone: (819) 316-0919

peter@fabledfco.com

For further information please contact: info@fabledfco.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including, that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events and that the Company obtains any required regulatory approvals. Forward-looking information includes statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "projects," "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will," "would," "may," "could" or "should" occur.

Forward-looking information in this document includes statements concerning the Company's intention to complete the Proposed Transaction and all other statements that are not statements of historical fact.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: impacts from the coronavirus or other epidemics, general economic conditions in Canada, the United States and globally; industry conditions, including fluctuations in commodity prices; governmental regulation of the mining industry, including environmental regulation; geological, technical and drilling problems; unanticipated operating events; competition for and/or inability to retain drilling rigs and other services; the availability of capital on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; volatility in market prices for commodities; liabilities inherent in mining operations; changes in tax laws and incentive programs relating to the mining industry; as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com . The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Fabled Silver Gold Corp

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796736/fabled-silver-gold-corp-provides-update-on-proposed-acquisition-of-mecatona-property-and-announces-extension-to-annual-general-meeting
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Ubique Minerals Limited ("Ubique" or the "Company") (CSE:UBQ)(FRA:2UM) is pleased to announce that it has completed the field work portion of its overall expanded Daniel's Harbour zinc project and has dispatched soil samples to a local laboratory for analyses. Geologic compilation is underway and the geologic interpretation will be integrated with the new geochemical results on receipt, plus prior geochemical results and historic surveys.

As announced in the press release of September 21, 2023 the company has consolidated several Mineral Licenses covering the area of historic zinc mining and extensions along strike for almost 20 kilometres in a northeasterly direction along the trend of the zinc deposits. The mining operation from 1975 till 1990 extracted almost eight million tons of high grade sphaleritic ore with an average grade of almost 8% zinc. Clusters of zinc deposits, zinc float boulders and soil zinc geochemical anomalies are known throughout the length of the property.

A contractor was retained to undertake geochemical surveys in areas previously un-surveyed and to link up with existing surveyed areas where anomalies are open-ended. Company geologists investigated geologic features and areas of possible interest based on historic reports. The geology is being compiled into an integrated map of the whole property highlighting the features known to be associated with the zinc deposits to locate the most favorable target areas for new zinc deposits that either occur at surface or at very shallow depths such that open pit mining would be practical.

The attached map shows the excellent location of this property with a paved road right onto the property and gravel roads giving good access to the rest of the property.

About Daniel's Harbour project

The Daniel's Harbour properties of Ubique cover both the area of the past producing high grade zinc mine and extensions of favorable area, mostly to the north-northeast along strike for more than ten kilometers. Exploration drilling to date has confirmed three zinc deposits and has indications of two more which require additional definition drilling to define their extents. Several more zones identified by one or more historic drill holes require relocating and further drilling to confirm. As the deposits are long, narrow and flat lying-in shape and orientation, within flat lying dolomitic sedimentary rocks they may extend across more than one blocks of claims and therefore the ability to consolidate the property position will assist in exploration execution.

On behalf of the board of directors,

Vilhjalmur Thor Vilhjalmsson

CEO and Chairman

About Ubique Minerals Limited

Ubique Minerals Limited is an exploration company listed on the CSE (CSE:UBQ) focused on exploration of its Daniel's Harbour zinc property in Newfoundland and is also engaged in exploration in Namibia, Africa along with actively searching for other projects around the world. Ubique became a publicly listed company in September 2018. Ubique has an experienced management group with a record of multiple discoveries of deposits worldwide and owns an extensive and exclusive database of historic exploration results from the Daniel's Harbour area.

Dr. Gerald Harper, P.Geo.(NL), director of Ubique, is the qualified person as defined by NI 43-101 responsible for the technical data presented herein and has reviewed and approved this release.

For more information on Ubique please contact see www.ubiqueminerals.com or contact vilhjalmur@jvcapital.co.uk

Forward-Looking Information: This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business and trading in the common stock of Ubique Minerals Limited., the raising of additional capital and the future development of the business. The forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the company's management. Although the company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking information is based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking information because Ubique can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and Ubique disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE: Ubique Minerals Limited

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796721/ubique-completes-daniels-harbour-zinc-project-field-surveys-and-sampling-program
Public Sector Now Able to Harness the Power of RepRisk's Daily Updated Business Conduct and Supply Chain Risk Dataset

RepRisk, a data science company that provides transparency on business conduct risks, and Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, today announced a partnership. Under the agreement, Carahsoft will serve as Public Sector Distributor making RepRisk's industry-leading dataset on business conduct and supply chain risks available to the Public Sector through Carahsoft's reseller partners, NASA Solutions for Enterprise-Wide Procurement (SEWP) V, Information Technology Enterprise Solutions Software 2 (ITES-SW2) and OMNIA Partners contracts.

"True to their public mandate, Government agencies and other public entities are keen to manage their business conduct risks," said Jenny Nordby, Head of Business Development at RepRisk. "Our partnership with Carahsoft and its resellers enables Public Sector organizations to access RepRisk's unique, world-leading dataset in order to identify, assess and monitor risks throughout their value chains, thus promoting financially sound decisions."

RepRisk provides the world's largest dataset on business conduct and supply chain risks, powered by a unique combination of artificial and human intelligence, delivering speed and driving scale without sacrificing data quality or granularity. RepRisk intentionally excludes company self-disclosures to produce comprehensive and actionable insights on business conduct risks. These risks can result in financial losses and reputational damage for a company and its stakeholders.

RepRisk and Carahsoft are working together to help Public Sector entities make risk-informed business decisions and drive innovation by leveraging RepRisk's unique event and issues-driven ESG research methodology. RepRisk's innovative approach offers users an outsider's perspective when assessing an organization's actual on-the-ground performance and enables effective scalability, risk assessment and governance. By making RepRisk data available to the Public Sector through Carahsoft's extensive IT ecosystem and reseller partners, this partnership facilitates the integration and reporting of business conduct risks within operations and across supply chains.

"With the addition of RepRisk to our offerings, Carahsoft is now able to support our Public Sector customers with uniquely comprehensive and critical insights into their operation conduct risks," said Alec Wyhs, Sales Director who leads the RepRisk Team at Carahsoft. "This partnership will connect RepRisk to our extensive reseller network and provide access to a one-of-a-kind data collection and analytics service that can both streamline operations and limit risks for our customers."

RepRisk's data-as-a-service is available through Carahsoft's SEWP V contracts NNG15SC03B and NNG15SC27B, ITES-SW2 Contract W52P1J-20-D-0042 and OMNIA Partners Contract R191902. For more information, contact the Carahsoft team at (888) 662-2724 or RepRisk@carahsoft.com.

Carahsoft is helping Government agencies connect technology and industry partners with best-of-breed artificial intelligence, machine learning and high-performance computing capabilities to meet mission needs. Learn more about Carahsoft's AI and Machine Learning solutions here.

About RepRisk

Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Switzerland, RepRisk is a data science company that provides transparency on business conduct risks like deforestation, human rights abuses, and corruption. RepRisk enables efficient decision-making for clients and supports alpha generation and value preservation for their organization, investments, and business interests. RepRisk is trusted by 80+ of the world's leading banks, 17 of the 25 largest investment managers, corporates, and the world's largest sovereign wealth funds for their due diligence processes. RepRisk uses human curation and cutting-edge artificial intelligence to generate the world's most comprehensive business conduct and biodiversity risk datasets on public and private companies, real assets, and countries. Find out more on reprisk.com.

About Carahsoft

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, we deliver solutions for Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Big Data, Open Source, Customer Experience and Engagement, and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Visit us at www.carahsoft.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026877301/en/

Contacts:

Gina Walser

+41 43 300 54 40

media@reprisk.com

Mary Lange

(703) 230-7434

pr@carahsoft.com
INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- IMG (International Medical Group), an award-winning global insurance benefits and assistance services company, is excited to announce its continued sponsorship of School the World, an organization focused on providing access to quality education in Central America. For the fifth time, IMG will be sending a group of employees on a week-long, corporate service trip to the Western Highlands of Guatemala where they will assist in building a new school for a community in need.

"It has been an amazing tradition for our staff and company to sponsor School the World, and we are proud to send another group of IMG employees to participate in the 2024 corporate service trip," said IMG President and CEO, Steve Paraboschi. "At IMG, our purpose is to be there to protect and enhance the well-being of our customers, and this trip is a great way for our employees to gain a better understanding of what it means to be there for the customers we serve."

The IMG School the World team members were selected based on applications submitted via written essay or video. Submitted applications were carefully reviewed, and seven IMG employees were chosen to embark on the trip of a lifetime.

"I had the honor of helping represent IMG during the 2023 corporate service trip to Guatemala with School the World, and it was truly a life-changing experience," said IMG Public Relations Specialist, Carly Miller. "It was so enlightening to be in a new culture and heartwarming to help build a new school that will have an impact on its community for years to come. I am very grateful to both IMG and School the World for allowing me and my coworkers to have this incredible opportunity."

School the World was founded in 2009 to fight extreme poverty at its core by bringing quality education to children in Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama. Since its founding, the non-profit organization has built more than 125 schools for over 15,000 children. School the World works both on-site in poverty-stricken communities who have little to no access to education, as well as in the U.S., providing students, families, and companies the opportunity to create change.

"We are so grateful that IMG has made the decision to partner with us at School the World for another corporate service trip in 2024," said Kate Curran, Founder and CEO of School the World. "We believe learning and evolving are essential to creating change, and we are on a mission to solve the education crisis in our world. The work we do to affect change wouldn't be possible without the generosity of corporate partners like IMG, and we cannot wait for our trip to Guatemala together."

The 2024 service trip will take place March 3-9, 2024. For more information about School the World, visit https://schooltheworld.org/.

About IMG (International Medical Group)

IMG (International Medical Group), a SiriusPoint company, is an award-winning global insurance benefits and assistance services company that has served millions of members worldwide since its founding in 1990. The preeminent provider of travel and health safety solutions, IMG offers a wide range of insurance programs, including international private medical insurance, travel medical insurance, and travel insurance, as well as enterprise services, including insurance administrative services and 24/7 emergency medical, security, and travel assistance. IMG's world-class services, combined with an extensive product portfolio, provide Global Peace of Mind for travelers, students, missionaries, marine crews, and other individuals or groups traveling, working, or living away from home. For more information, please visit www.imglobal.com.

About School the World

Our mission is to solve extreme poverty through the power of education. We believe that by working together we can create a world where every child has the quality education they deserve. That is why we work both on the ground in poverty-stricken communities who have little to no access to education, as well as right here in the U.S., providing students, families, and companies the opportunity to create change. Our strategy is to work at the grassroots level, organizing communities around education from early childhood through adolescence. Our Service Program amplifies our impact at home & abroad. Everyone, working together, towards making our world a more just place. Learn more at www.schooltheworld.org.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/456500/International_Medical_Group_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/img-continues-partnership-with-school-the-world-for-fifth-corporate-service-trip-301967378.html
SHENZHEN, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rhino Rescue, a leading provider of premium first aid supplies, has confirmed plans to participate in the China International Medical Equipment Fair (CMEF) from October 28 to 31 in Shenzhen. The key highlight of the company's participation is the launch of new products like the ADV-PRO pneumothorax needle and featured items like Tourniquet-Aluminum, chest seal, and first aid kit.

The company aims to leverage CMEF, an internationally recognized platform covering the entire medical device industry, to showcase its technology and products while gaining insights into the industry's evolving landscape. The Expo is expected to draw nearly 4,000 brands from over 20 countries, showcasing tens of thousands of products into the limelight.

Rhino Rescue's ADV-PRO pneumothorax needle stands out as a flagship product in the company's portfolio. With an impressively quick application time of just four seconds, this needle is remarkably user-friendly. Its design guarantees consistent operation times, irrespective of the user's familiarity with the product. Furthermore, the needle's unique valve can be operated blindly, significantly reducing the risk of error.

Other key products include:

Tourniquet-Aluminum (PZZX0010) features a high-quality aluminum alloy rotary design that is durable yet lightweight. The surface's anti-slip pattern prevents slippage due to blood, and the built-in stylus aids in recording key tourniquet information.

features a high-quality aluminum alloy rotary design that is durable yet lightweight. The surface's anti-slip pattern prevents slippage due to blood, and the built-in stylus aids in recording key tourniquet information. Chest Seal (CPXF0009) leverages directional tri-hole drainage slots to safely channel blood out, reducing the risk of contamination. Its red pull-tabs make application easier.

leverages directional tri-hole drainage slots to safely channel blood out, reducing the risk of contamination. Its red pull-tabs make application easier. IFAK-SE, a versatile and comprehensive first aid kit, boasts a large capacity to accommodate a wide range of essential medical supplies. The front MOLLE panel is laser-cut and equipped with a large hook-and-loop area for customizable tactical markers or identification patches, reducing weight while maintaining an appealing design.

"This exhibition is a tremendous opportunity for us," said Jenny Lee, CEO of Rhino Rescue. "It allows us to exchange insights on the latest industry technology and trends. With our extensive technical patents, international exhibit experience, and membership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), interacting with diverse markets helps us continuously enhance our products, improving the effectiveness of rescue operations and saving more lives."

Rhino Rescue played a vital role in international COVID-19 relief efforts. Their innovative products have saved countless lives annually and continue to contribute to emergency medical rescue. Learn more at https://rhinorescuestore.com/.

About Rhino Rescue

Founded in 2010, Rhino Rescue (a division of EMSRUN Technology Co., Ltd.) Focused on pre-hospital emergency care products, and serve international and domestic emergency rescue services, providing rapid, efficient, and scientific solutions for emergency transport.

As your professional partners in lifesaving medical equipment and training, we are committed to delivering critical solutions for combatants, first responders, and pre-hospital medical service providers.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2257148/Rhino_Rescue_CMEF_Booth_Hall_14_14A52.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/rhino-rescue-to-unveil-innovative-emergency-products-at-88th-cmef-301968756.html
Excellence in HR Technology Implementation: TalenTeam's Triumph and the Importance of Partner Selection

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TalenTeam's commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction in SAP SuccessFactors implementation has been celebrated with the prestigious Customer Project Success Award, by Raven Intelligence, at SAP SuccessConnect 2023. TalenTeam has also been featured as the top-rated SAP SuccessFactors partner in Raven's latest ' Guide to Top SAP SuccessFactors Implementation Partners ' report.

About Raven Intelligence

Raven Intelligence is a free, online community to help Enterprise Software customers independently find their perfect consulting partner. Their platform provides transparent insights into software implementation processes through hundreds of verified customer reviews about projects with chosen implementation partners. Raven's mission is rooted in delivering transparency and genuine insights, supported by a vast database of 2,300+ verified reviews from customers worldwide. Their community-driven model ensures objectivity and credibility, making it a dependable resource for businesses seeking the right consulting partner for their implementation projects.

Why Choosing the Right Implementation Partner Matters

The review platform delves deep into consulting partners, examining not only their firmographic details but also real-life experiences. Some partners appear impressive initially but fall short in delivering customer satisfaction, while others, despite having limited marketing budgets, consistently excel in project delivery. Conducting thorough research and gaining insight into the real customer experience helps businesses make informed decisions, saving both time and money in the long run. Unlike relying solely on software vendors' recommendations, Raven's reviews provide authentic, unbiased insights into the success of a consulting partner.

TalenTeam's Triumph

TalenTeam's success story emerges from the pages of Raven Intelligence's comprehensive database. Amidst hundreds of reviews for SAP SuccessFactors, TalenTeam stands out, showcasing a consistently high level of customer satisfaction. With the most extensive number of reviews and highest ratings, they secure their position as the leading SAP SuccessFactors partner.

Customers are being asked to rate their implementation partner on a variety of measures, and in this regard, TalenTeam stands out as a clear leader. They have 5 stars out of 5, excelling in system expertise, the implementation process, responsiveness, consultant quality, and flexibility - consistently going above and beyond in these areas, overperforming other implementation partners.

TalenTeam also boasts an impressive Average Partner Satisfaction Score of 9.6 out of 10, a testament to their delivery that consistently exceeds expectations. Client testimonials highlight TalenTeam's professionalism, knowledge, and proactive problem-solving approach, making them the go-to partner for HR transformation projects.

'At TalenTeam, customer satisfaction is top priority. We continually strive to create value for our clients by building lasting relationships, while dealing with inevitable challenges and we do so with grace and professionalism' - Sandeep Nahata, Managing Director at TalenTeam.

Celebrating Success and Guiding the Path Forward

TalenTeam's Customer Project Success Award by Raven is a testament to dedication, expertise, and client-focused approach. This accolade not only signifies outstanding performance but also emphasizes the importance of diligent partner selection in ensuring project success. As businesses navigate the intricate process of choosing the right consulting partner, Raven Intelligence continues to guide them, fostering a culture of transparency, trust, and success. In the competitive landscape of HR technology, TalenTeam wishes for their achievement to serve as an inspiration.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/talenteam-top-rated-sap-successfactors-partner-and-winner-of-the-2023-customer-project-success-award-301968839.html
After Seeing Tremendous Success in North America, the Company Leverages 10-year UK IT Industry Veteran, Justin Sharrocks, to Replicate the Disruptive Success in the UK Cloud Solutions Market

Trusted Tech Team, a rapidly-growing provider of Microsoft licensing and cloud-based solutions, announced today that it has expanded its physical footprint to Great Britain by opening an office on Mabledon Place in the heart of London and naming Justin Sharrocks as Director of Sales, UK. The company has heavily penetrated the Greater London market, swiftly forming strategic partnerships with Britain's top IT leaders and Microsoft specialists to solidify its position as one of the country's fastest growing Microsoft Cloud Solution Providers (CSP).

"There's been a unique opportunity for us in the UK market," said Julian Hamood, Founder President of Trusted Tech Team. "We've been pleasantly surprised with the tremendous success we've had in the UK so far, despite having our headquarters in the U.S. Our UK customers have been incredible. We owe it to them to be as accessible as possible. So setting up headquarters in London was the clear next step to support capacity and let us interact with customers locally."

After seeing success from actively serving UK companies without a local presence, Trusted Tech Team leadership aims to put their team of over 200 experts in the best possible position to uphold the company's novel, human-centric approach to Microsoft cloud solutions. Company executives anticipate that establishing a local headquarters will accelerate their momentum in capturing UK market share, just as it did for them in the North American market.

Trusted Tech Team plans to capitalize on London's robust digital infrastructure and vast pool of top-notch IT professionals to bolster the massive impact it's had in the UK. The company's ability to attract and retain world-class talent to work in-house has historically catapulted demand for their services by giving clients swift, personalized service from experts who can resolve even the most advanced technical setbacks significantly faster than the industry average SLA times.

"It takes a world-class team of support engineers to continue setting record-breaking SLA times," said Julian Garsdean, Chief Operating Officer of Trusted Tech Team. "We will continue to heavily invest in our global team and operation, to provide our clients with a level of care, support, and service excellence not seen by any other CSP in the world."

This human-centric approach to IT strategy optimization, along with an unmatched skill at reducing software expenses (by up to 20% in many cases) has been disruptive to the traditionally complex, costly, and administrative-heavy licensing procurement experience so common in the industry. Trusted Tech Team's repeated blueprint for IT success in helping mid-to-enterprise-sized organizations streamline their operations easily and increase profit margins has proved appealing to savvy business leaders in London.

"The company's relentless focus on client relationships give Trusted Tech Team their biggest advantage in London," said Justin Sharrocks, newly appointed Director of Sales, UK. In my 10+ years working in IT services, I've never seen a company retain clients like Trusted Tech Team. Clients stay with Trusted Tech Team because they're able to receive a level of support that's hard to come by in this industry. The team of expert engineers are extremely knowledgeable about the intricacies of the Microsoft work environment and they're all genuinely passionate about what they do. I'm grateful to be playing a part in their mission to bring that much-needed energy to the UK tech space."

Launched in 2017 in Irvine, CA, Trusted Tech Team has quickly become a force to be reckoned with as a trusted Microsoft partner. With a growing world-wide client base of over 10,000 satisfied customers, the company continues to surpass expectations and is on its way to becoming an international behemoth in the cloud market. Trusted Tech Team currently services customers all over the globe and continues to expand their physical presence to better serve their client base. As demand for licensing expertise and engineer-led-support grows alongside the rising global trend to move towards cloud-based solutions, they show no signs of slowing their impressive growth anytime soon. For more information about Trusted Tech Team and its Microsoft cloud licensing solutions and support, visit www.trustedtechteam.com.

ABOUT TRUSTED TECH TEAM

Trusted Tech Team is a leading Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider (CSP) specializing in Microsoft Cloud services, Microsoft perpetual licensing, and professional services for medium and enterprise-sized businesses. Since 2017, the company has leveraged its Microsoft Gold Partner status alongside its strong relationship with the Microsoft Partner Network to provide the highest quality customer experience in the industry. They're most well-known for combining the absolute lowest prices, licensing optimization, and helping IT teams get even the most complex support questions for M365 and Azure answered quickly and accurately. Their robust team of in-house U.S. based Microsoft architects and engineers is made up of some of the world's top certified experts able to resolve even the most advanced technical setbacks significantly faster than the industry standard SLA's. Trusted Tech Team has attained all Microsoft Solutions Partner Designations currently available in the Microsoft Cloud Partner program and was one of the first Microsoft partners to do this. By prioritizing its people-centric approach, Trusted Tech Team transforms the software licensing experience-enabling customers to cut IT budgets with peace of mind so they can concentrate on the success of their business.

To learn more, please visit www.trustedtechteam.com and/or follow on socials: LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter Facebook.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026960092/en/

Contacts:

MEDIA CONTACT:

Nicole Rodrigues

NRPR Group for Trusted Tech Team

nicole@nrprgroup.com
LAS VEGAS, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Spiro (sp-eye-roh), a strategically-led, creatively-driven, industry-leading global brand experience agency, is pleased to announce Dane Aloe as Executive Vice President of Strategy & Measurement. With an innovative creative vision & an impressive combination of strategic insights & technology expertise, Aloe brings a wealth of experience & leadership to the agency.

In his new role, Aloe will leverage his industry knowledge to lead Spiro's strategy team, using data, actionable measurement & insights to help solve clients' biggest challenges. The team will also help drive Spiro's growth & success by providing critical portfolio strategy that helps clients stay cutting-edge, even with short planning windows & in a competitive marketplace.

Aloe's strategy expertise will help the agency further deliver Brand Gravity, the uniquely Spiro bond between brand & customer. Recently speaking on stage at Advertising Week New York, Aloe discussed The G.R.A.V.I.T.Y. Index, the science & methodology behind Brand Gravity, and revealed the value that businesses across industries can receive from experiences that powerfully strengthen relationships between their brands & their most important audiences.

"We're thrilled to welcome Dane to the Spiro team," said the agency's Global President, Jeff Stelmach. "His considerable skillset and innovative, strategic vision align with our unique point of view. Under his leadership, Spiro will continue to push the envelope for our clients & the industry, helping to redefine when, where & how brands connect with their audiences through high-impact experiential marketing."

Aloe honed his skills as the Director of Corporate Development at Omelet, helping it expand from a 30-employee operation to a full-scale marketing agency with more than 100 staff members. Aloe also co-founded digital agency Contend & served as the Head of Growth & Innovation at Accenture before joining Spiro.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Aloe co-founded The Art & Technology Club, a community dedicated to fostering collaboration between artists & technologists and developing new art forms using artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR).

"Spiro's focus on cultivating purposeful connection & commitment to providing actionable measurement & results speak to my passion & mindset," Aloe said. "I'm excited to collaborate with this dynamic team, testing the boundaries of what's possible with brand events & experiences."

About Spiro

Spiro (sp-eye-roh) is a strategically-led, creatively-driven, industry-leading global brand experience agency. We exist to cultivate purposeful connection. We specialize in delivering the world's most powerful bonds between brands & their business and consumer audiences. We work with some of the world's most recognized brands, to design events and experiences intended to sway & stay customer preference. We strive to understand drivers & engagement motivators, design to those behaviors, and ultimately position brands as priority in the hearts & minds of their most important audiences. Come. Experience Brand Gravity, the uniquely Spiro bond between brand & customer. To learn more, visit ThisIsSpiro.com.

Media Contact:

Jenn Joseph

The Encore Agency

602-329-8040

Jenn@TheEncoreAgency.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2255466/Spiro_Dane_Aloe_2.jpg

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/spiro-the-global-brand-experience-agency-names-dane-aloe-as-executive-vice-president-strategy--measurement-301966553.html
PRINCETON, N.J., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Miami International Holdings, Inc. (MIH), owner of Miami International Securities Exchange, LLC (MIAX), MIAX PEARL, LLC (MIAX Pearl), MIAX Emerald, LLC (MIAX Emerald), MIAX Sapphire, LLC (MIAX SapphireTM), Minneapolis Grain Exchange, LLC (MGEXTM), LedgerX LLC (LedgerX), The Bermuda Stock Exchange (BSX), and Dorman Trading, LLC (Dorman Trading), today participated in the World Federation of Exchanges' (WFE) 'Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy 2023' ceremony by ringing the opening bell at its Princeton, N.J. headquarters as part of IOSCO World Investor Week (WIW) 2023.

"Financial literacy provides an important foundation for a new generation of global investors and we are pleased to support the IOSCO WIW 2023 campaign to help promote investor education around the world," said Thomas P. Gallagher, Chairman and CEO of MIH. "MIH employees actively participate in various financial literacy training programs within our community, including partnering with local schools to provide students with a fundamental understanding of financial information that can help them prepare for their future financial success."

The 'Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy' Campaign supports WIW 2023, a global campaign to raise awareness about the importance of investor education and protection. This marks the fourth consecutive year that IOSCO and the WFE are working in partnership on the 'Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy' initiative.

Mr. Gallagher added, "MIH is also expanding its financial literacy efforts in U.S. futures markets through our exclusive sponsorship of the new Futures Discovery video series created by John Lothian News. The video series provides a unique way for young investors to learn more about futures markets since it is being taught by students from Roosevelt University in Chicago."

Additional details and information on the IOSCO WIW 2023 campaign is available at the WIW website www.investor.gov/additional-resources/spotlight/world-investor-week-2023. Information on the WFE's Ring the Bell for Financial Literacy 2023 campaign is available at www.world-exchanges.org/membership-events/ring-bell-financial-literacy-2023.

About MIAX

MIAX's parent holding company, Miami International Holdings, Inc., owns Miami International Securities Exchange, LLC (MIAX), MIAX PEARL, LLC (MIAX Pearl), MIAX Emerald, LLC (MIAX Emerald), MIAX Sapphire, LLC (MIAX SapphireTM), Minneapolis Grain Exchange, LLC (MGEX), LedgerX LLC (LedgerX), The Bermuda Stock Exchange (BSX) and Dorman Trading, LLC (Dorman Trading).

MIAX, MIAX Pearl and MIAX Emerald are national securities exchanges registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission that are enabled by MIAX's in-house built, proprietary technology. MIAX offers trading of options on all three exchanges as well as cash equities through MIAX Pearl Equities. The MIAX trading platform was built to meet the high-performance quoting demands of the U.S. options trading industry and is differentiated by throughput, latency, reliability and wire-order determinism. MIAX also serves as the exclusive exchange venue for cash-settled options on the SPIKES Volatility Index (Ticker: SPIKE), a measure of the expected 30-day volatility in the SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY).

MGEX is a registered exchange with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and offers trading in a variety of products including Hard Red Spring Wheat Futures and also serves as the exclusive market for SPIKES Futures. MGEX is a Designated Contract Market (DCM) and Derivatives Clearing Organization (DCO) under the CFTC, providing DCM and DCO services in an array of asset classes.

LedgerX is a CFTC regulated exchange and clearinghouse and is registered as a Designated Contract Market (DCM), Derivatives Clearing Organization (DCO) and Swap Execution Facility (SEF) with the CFTC.

BSX is a fully electronic, vertically integrated international securities market headquartered in Bermuda and organized in 1971. BSX specializes in the listing and trading of capital market instruments such as equities, debt issues, funds, hedge funds, derivative warrants, and insurance linked securities.

Dorman Trading is a full-service Futures Commission Merchant registered with the CFTC.

MIAX's executive offices and National Operations Center are located in Princeton, N.J., with additional U.S. offices located in Miami, FL. MGEX offices are located in Minneapolis, MN. LedgerX offices are located in Princeton, N.J. BSX offices are located in Hamilton, Bermuda. Dorman Trading offices are located in Chicago, IL.

To learn more about MIAX visit www.miaxglobal.com.

To learn more about MGEX visit www.mgex.com.

To learn more about LedgerX visit www.ledgerx.com.

To learn more about BSX visit www.bsx.com.

To learn more about Dorman Trading visit www.dormantrading.com.

Disclaimer and Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities of Miami International Holdings, Inc. (together with its subsidiaries, the Company), and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer; solicitation or sale would be unlawful. This press release may contain forward-looking statements, including forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may," "future," "plan" or "planned," "will" or "should," "expected," "anticipates," "draft," "eventually" or "projected." You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

All third-party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by the Company remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, the Company's use of third-party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship, or endorsement between the owners of these trademarks and the Company. Any references by the Company to third-party trademarks is to identify the corresponding third-party goods and/or services and shall be considered nominative fair use under the trademark law.

Media Contact:

Andy Nybo, SVP, Chief Communications Officer

(609) 955-2091

anybo@miaxglobal.com

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1396492/MIAX_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/miami-international-holdings-participates-in-world-investor-weeks-ring-the-bell-for-financial-literacy-2023-ceremony-301968832.html
Traditional fishery in the Torres Strait hits the world-class benchmark in modern-day sustainable fisheries standards.

Original Publication

NEW GUINEA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Papua New Guinea's Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery celebrated their efforts to ensure the health and longevity of the lobster stocks in the Torres Strait Protected Zone at a certification event on Friday 20 October at the Crown Plaza in Port Moresby, PNG.

Based in the Torres Strait Protected Zone, the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster fishery stands out for its adherence to original techniques that have minimal impact on marine habitats and non-target species. With a limit of only seven boats and 5-7 fishers on each boat, the operations are recognised as a small-scale and now sustainable fishery. The crew and divers consist of local fishers from Daru Island who embrace the traditional methods of hand harvesting each exquisite shellfish via freediving (a diving method that does not require breathing equipment and instead relies on one long breath-hold) or by hookah (a diving method in which surface-supplied air is provided to a diver via a hose). The methods used require minimal gear and are highly selective, reducing impact on the environment and avoidance of any incidental catch of non-targeted species.

Anne Gabriel, MSC Program Director for Oceania and Singapore said: "The leadership shown by Papua New Guinea's Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster fishery should be emulated around the world as a benchmark that meeting world-class standards is not only achievable for small-scale fisheries but necessary. By embracing traditional and sustainable fishing practices, these communities are not only securing their future but protecting a vital part of our planet's ecosystem."

Local divers dedicate their lives to this method of fishing, and it is a practice passed on from generation to generation. For the fishing community of Daru Island, the ocean is the lifeblood, and this makes responsible fishing practices crucial for tradition and culture to survive. MSC certification serves as a shining example of how remote communities can achieve sustainability goals while preserving their unique cultural and environmental heritage.

Attaining MSC certification, the fishery commits to transparency of its operations and continuous improvements in responsible management. MSC certification highlights the critical importance of sustainable practices and assessment in remote areas like the Torres Strait Protected Zone. These regions are particularly vulnerable to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and whilst the fishery has historically encountered IUU, the journey towards MSC has helped agencies detect and deter IUU risks, leading to greater economic stability for fishers in the region. The involvement of a third-party assessor in the certification process not only ensures impartial evaluation, but it reinforces responsible management and provides additional verification of regional fishery performance.

Small-scale and artisanal fisheries often present unique challenges and complexity for assessment teams and certification bodies. Independent leader in third-party certification, verification, and validation for sustainable standards around the world, SCS Global Services, conducted the assessment. SCS has a long record of accomplishment navigating the MSC Standard and Process for small-scale fishery client groups since the certification of the Mexico Baja California Red Rock Lobster in 2004.

Jason Swecker, SCS' Managing Director of Seafood says "SCS proudly celebrates the PNG Lobster Fishery for earning MSC certification, showcasing their commitment to sustainable fishing. Leveraging SCS's globally recognized assessment expertise, especially in the western central Pacific, we've helped ensure this certification not only acknowledges their dedication to responsible stewardship of our marine ecosystems but also offers people a sustainable seafood choice. Together, using solid science and mindful management, we're working to improve and protect our global oceans and fishing communities."

Honouring the recognition, Sustainable and CSR Director of FIA PNG, Marcelo Hidalgo said, "The Torres Straight Lobster Fishery certification shows the collaboration between the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and The PNG Fishing Industry Association (FIA) of Papua New Guinea. This first-ever small-scale fishery in the Western and Central Pacific shows our commitment to sustainable fishing in Papua New Guinea to the world. This is part of our responsible sourcing policy (RSP) and commitment to improving the small-scale fisheries management plan, providing guaranteed livelihoods in the future, and at the same time we expect to place this valued commodity directly in consumer markets like restaurants".

With current markets in China, Hong Kong, and Australia, FIA PNG and NFA aim to open Singaporean and European markets with the MSC certification.

The MSC assessment process is independent, fully transparent, and stakeholder-driven with all documentation available at msc.org. MSC certification was possible for the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery thanks to the Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery Stock Assessment undertaken by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), an Australian Government agency responsible for scientific research.

Read More

Media Contacts:

US: Nikki Senseman: nsenseman@scsglobalservices.com

AU: Inday Ford: Inday.ford@msc.org

PNG: Nialangis Posanau: alice.posanau@gmail.com

Daru Island Villagers fishing make up majority of the crew for the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery. Photo credit: M. Hidalgo 2023

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from SCS Global Services on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: SCS Global Services

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/scs-global-services

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: SCS Global Services

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796759/sustainable-triumph-for-papua-new-guinea
ANAHEIM, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Here To Serve Holding Corp. (OTC PINK:HTSC) (the "Company" or "HTSC"), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive Share Exchange and Reorganization Agreement for the acquisition of DCE Construction, Inc., doing business as Mesa Garage Doors ("MESA"), a Southern California-based leader in home improvement solutions focused on the sale, service and installation of garage doors, entry door and custom gates. Subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions, the acquisition is expected to close in November 2023.The agreement marks a significant milestone for both companies as they prepare to embark on a new chapter.

Below are some key highlights of the transaction:

1. Share Acquisition: At closing, HTSC will acquire all outstanding shares of MESA in exchange for the issuance of 1.4 billion restricted shares of HTSC common stock to the shareholders of MESA in a tax-free reorganization.

2. Preferred Stock Acquisition: At closing, MESA's shareholders will also purchase all Series A and Series C Preferred Stock of HTSC, all of which are held by an affiliate of HTSC.

3. At closing, HTSC's current officers will resign, and Dwight Esnard (CEO of MESA) and Michael Layman (CFO of MESA) will be appointed as HTSC's new CEO and CFO, respectively.

4. At closing, HTSC's current directors will also resign, and MESA's directors, Dwight Esnard and Michael Layman will be appointed as the sole members of HTSC's board.

5. Ownership Equalization: At closing, Paul Riss, CEO of HTSC, will receive an additional 43,200,000 shares of HTSC common stock as consideration for the cancellation of certain debt owed to Mr. Riss, maintaining a 4% total ownership stake in HTSC post-closing. Pursuant to the agreement, dependent upon the value of HTSC's common stock one year from the closing date, Mr. Riss may also be entitled to receive certain additional shares of HTSC common stock.

6. Spin-out of Legacy Business: In connection with, and as promptly as possible after closing of the MESA acquisition, it is anticipated that HTSC's legacy business and subsidiaries will be spun-out into a separate public entity to the holders of HTSC's common stock as of a record date prior to closing of the acquisition. The Company has filed the necessary Issuer Company-Related Action Notification with FINRA in connection with the spin-out, seeking a record date of November 2, 2023. Details regarding the anticipated spin-out will follow in a separate disclosure.

7. After closing of the MESA acquisition, the Company will promptly file an Issuer Company-Related Action Notification with FINRA to complete a name and ticker symbol change to better align HTSC's name with its new business.

Until the MESA acquisition closes, HTSC and MESA will remain separate, independent companies and will operate as such.

Executive Commentary:

Paul Riss, outgoing CEO of HTSC, stated, "This strategic transaction with MESA fortifies our market position and sets the stage for significant growth. I am confident that Dwight Esnard, our incoming CEO, will steer the Company to unprecedented success."

Financial Valuation and Outlook:

MESA obtained an independent valuation as of July 31, 2023 showing that the company has an enterprise value of approximately $41 million. MESA generated unaudited gross revenue of approximately $20.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, and is on track to achieve revenue of approximately $23.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. By 2025, MESA projects a revenue target of $30 million, with a 10% year-over-year growth rate anticipated for 2026.

MESA Operational Enhancements:

Technological upgrades and workforce training have improved closing ratios, while a high-impact marketing campaign has boosted average sales and appointment success rates. MESA has plans to horizontally diversify into other home improvement areas in addition to garage door installation/repairs, as well as grow through an aggressive M&A campaign of strategically aligned businesses throughout the US.

Financial Audits and Transparency:

MESA is currently undergoing a two-year audit by a PCAOB-registered audit firm that is expected to be complete in the near term. HTSC has had a PCAOB audit for the past two years. The Company plans to register as a reporting company with the Securities and Exchange Commission after the audit work is completed.

Closing Remarks:

Dwight Esnard, incoming CEO, commented, "This agreement marks a pivotal moment for MESA as we transition into a public company. We are committed to delivering significant value to our stakeholders and believe we are poised for a period of dynamic growth and innovation."

About Here To Serve Holding Corp.

Here to Serve Holding Corp. ("HTSC") utilizes a two-pronged approach in its business strategy to profit from de-carbonization. It invests in properties containing metals for electric vehicle batteries, and it sells subscriptions for a real-time AWS-based software platform for electric building systems. One subsidiary, Fortune Nickel and Gold Inc. ("Fortune"), explores for battery metals. Fortune owns 190 mining claims in the mineral-rich Timmins Mining District in Ontario, Canada. It targets the growing demand for class one nickel from the electric vehicle battery sector. Fortune has received exploration permits to drill in the townships of Gowan, Beck, Ottaway and Lennox. A second subsidiary, ICF Industries Inc. ("ICF"), provides real-time energy measurement services to more than 100 building systems. Buildings and municipalities increasingly seek to take advantage of low carbon electric infrastructure. ICF provides the cloud-based measurement and reporting tools that allow buildings and communities to see the impact of their decisions to create a long-term low-carbon impact.

About DCE Construction, Inc. (dba Mesa)

Founded over 30 years ago, MESA (www.mesagaragedoors.com) is a Southern California leader in the otherwise highly fragmented business of sales, installation, and service for garage doors. Over these 30 years, MESA has serviced well over a half million customers utilizing its own staff of installers, technicians, and repair employees. With a strong reputation and extensive customer base, MESA has leveraged its financial strength, scalability, operations and service call center and professional management to become one of the largest garage door specialty companies in the United States. While MESA's current corporate name certainly implies garage doors, the Company has expanded over the years to include other related installations and services for entry doors, custom wood gates, and garage door openers and is planning additional expansion over the coming months.

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements also may be included in other publicly available documents issued by HTSC and in oral statements made by our officers and representatives from time to time. These forward-looking statements are intended to provide management's current expectations or plans for our future operating and financial performance, based on assumptions currently believed to be valid. They can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipate," "intend," "plan," "goal," "seek," "believe," "project," "estimate," "expect," "strategy," "future," "likely," "may," "should," "would," "could," "will" and other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future operating or financial performance.

Examples of forward-looking statements include, among others, statements relating to closing of the MESA acquisition and transactions contemplated thereby, the enterprise value of the Company post-closing, the Company's ability to successfully integrate the MESA business, the success of the Company post-closing, M&A related prospects for the Company post-closing, completion of the spin-out, changes to the Company's corporate name and ticker symbol, future sales, revenues, earnings, cash flows, results of operations, uses of cash, and other measures of financial performance.

Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause HTSC's actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others such as, but are not limited to economic conditions, changes in the laws or regulations, demand for HTSC's products and services, the effects of competition, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or represented in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking information provided in this release should be considered with these factors in mind. We assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

For more information about the Share Exchange and Reorganization Agreement or other matters related to Here To Serve Holding Corp. and DCE Construction, Inc., d/b/a Mesa Garage Doors, please contact:

Company Contact:

Paul Riss

CEO

paul@heretoserve.tech

855-464-2535

SOURCE: Here to Serve Holding Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796665/here-to-serve-holding-corp-to-acquire-dce-construction-inc-dba-mesa-garage-doors-in-transformative-share-exchange-agreement
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At the 2023 Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) is presenting its advanced approach to elevating the patient treatment journey. By harnessing state-of-the-art digital healthcare solutions, the hospital has showcased the role of such tools in enhancing healthcare outcomes and operational efficiency across diverse medical domains.



KFSH&RC has achieved substantial advancements in streamlining the patient admission process through the 'Ehalat' service. This automated platform simplifies medical referrals and fosters collaboration with both public and private healthcare entities. Additionally, it empowers users to submit medical reports, compile personal data, and access their medical history-all within a unified service, eliminating the necessity for in-person visits to the hospital. This not only simplifies the evaluation of a patient's condition and treatment eligibility but also provides real-time tracking and updates on applications.

Patients can now track their treatment progress remotely through "Altakhassusi" mobile application, providing them with secure access to their medical records. The app allows patients to view radiology and medical lab test results, easily schedule appointments, attend virtual follow-up sessions with their physicians, and even assess the effectiveness of their treatment. Moreover, it enhances the process of prescription refills, medical supplies, and nutritional needs, making communication with the medical team and the hospital effortless.

KFSH&RC is dedicated to providing a high-quality treatment experience with automation at every stage. This approach saves time and effort for patients, and it improves medical decision-making through cutting-edge methods and care models that leverage the rapid advancements in digital health innovations. These capabilities enable seamless integration of various medical technologies, consolidating clinical results, documents, and medical data. This ranges from surgical notes to post-operative care, ensuring a smooth flow of information, boosting care efficiency, and customizing it to meet each patient's unique needs.

KFSH&RC is globally recognized for its exceptional specialized healthcare services and groundbreaking innovations. It stands as an advanced hub for medical research and education, committed to advancing medical technologies and raising the standard of healthcare on a global scale. Through collaborations with prominent local, regional, and international institutions, it aspires to deliver world-class services in clinical care, research, and education.

The Global Health Exhibition, featuring the participation of 250 exhibitors from 15 countries, stands as the premier healthcare gathering in the Middle East. It serves as a platform for collaboration among Saudi and global healthcare communities, including regional and international manufacturers and suppliers. This year's summit, operating under the theme 'Investing in Health,' promises to be a pivotal event shaping the future of healthcare.

Contact information:

kfshrc@mcsaatchi.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2825a442-d3e8-4c08-aa98-61fb48e4fe5e


TOKYO (dpa-AFX) - The United States, Japan, and South Korea have strongly condemned North Korea's supply of military equipment and munitions to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine.



'Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russia's war of aggression. We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russia's attempts to acquire military equipment from the DPRK', the three allied nations said in a joint statement.



The foreign ministers of the three nations alleged that in return for its support to Russia, North Korea is seeking military assistance to advance its own military capabilities.



U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said they are monitoring closely for any materials that Russia provides to the North in support of Pyongyang's military objectives. They emphasized that arms transfers to or from North Korea as well as the transfer to it certain items and technical cooperation related to its weapons of mass destruction, ballistic missile, or conventional weapons programs, would violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions. Russia itself voted for the UN Security Council resolutions that contain these restrictions.



The leaders also expressed deep concern over the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to North Korea. 'Such transfers would jeopardize the ongoing efforts of the international community to keep sensitive technologies out of the hands of actors who are working to destabilize regional security, threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as across the globe, and necessitate renewed efforts to respond appropriately across all elements of our national power to the advancing DPRK WMD threat'.



The United States, Japan, and South Korea urged North Korea and Russia to abide by relevant UN Security Council resolutions and immediately cease all activities that violate them.



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
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Volt Carbon Technologies Inc. (TSXV: VCT) (OTCQB: TORVF) (BE: WNF) ("VCT") and E-Power Resources Inc. (CSE: EPR) ("EPR") are pleased to announce their collaboration formalized through the signing of a Mineral Processing Agreement effective October 25th 2023 for a term of 5 years. This agreement is aimed at evaluating the feasibility of utilizing VCT's dry processing technology to process bulk sample material from EPR's Tetepisca flake graphite property.

Highlights

This Preliminary Mineral Processing Agreement encompasses various aspects of mineral development, including support for resource estimation, bulk sampling, and feasibility assessment. Samples containing graphite will be extracted from EPR's mineral property and transported to VCT's testing facility located in Scarborough, Ontario. Subsequently, VCT will undertake the processing of the graphitic material into flake graphite concentrate. Under this Mineral Processing Agreement, the ore processing cost at VCT is fixed at $50,000 per ton and includes both primary and secondary crushing stages, dry separation and laboratory analysis.

"The mineral processing agreement with EPR marks another significant stride for Volt Carbon Technologies in advancing its prospects for generating revenue through graphite purification. EPR's mineral resource is located in the Tetepisca Graphite District, where Volt has strategically established its presence for providing mineral processing services. This advantageous location presents opportunities for enhanced operational efficiency, especially as the area begins to attract attention from graphite consumers." stated V-Bond Lee, CEO of Volt Carbon Technologies.

"This agreement will enable battery manufacturers to acquire samples of E-Power's Tetepisca graphite as they search for graphite sources to enable their massive production capacity expansion," said James Cross, President and Chief Executive Officer of E-Power Resources.

About Volt Carbon Technologies

Volt Carbon Technologies Inc. is a publicly traded carbon science company, with a specific focus on energy storage and green energy innovation. The company holds mining claims in the provinces of Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia in Canada. For the latest updates on Volt's properties and news, please visit the website www.voltcarbontech.com.

About E-Power Resources

E-Power Resources Inc. is an exploration stage company engaged principally in the acquisition, exploration, and development of graphite properties in Quebec. Its flagship asset, the Tetepisca Graphite Property, is located in the Tetepisca Graphite District of the North Shore Region of Quebec, approximately 215 kilometers from the Port of Baie-Comeau. For more information visit www.e-powerresources.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Volt Carbon Technologies Inc,

V-Bond Lee, P. Eng.

CEO, President, Chairman of the Board and Director

Contacts:

Email: info@voltcarbontech.com

Tel: (647-546-7049)

On behalf of the Board of Directors of E-Power Resources Inc,

James Cross

President and Chief Executive Officer

Contacts:

Tel: (438-701-3736)

info@e-powerresources.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS: This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, concerning Volt's business and affairs. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as 'plans', 'expects' or 'does not expect', "intends" 'budget', 'scheduled', 'estimates', "forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates' 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'.

These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are naturally subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances that may cause actual results to differ materially. Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of whether or not such results will be achieved.

All of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this press release, and Volt assumes no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required under applicable securities legislation.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185317
- Masdar signs three investment agreements for two solar projects and one onshore wind project with combined capacity of 1GW, supporting Azerbaijan's 2030 clean energy ambitions

- Garadagh inauguration attended by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar

- HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber calls on all nations to follow Azerbaijan in setting clear energy transition plans to deliver a COP of action, a COP of solidarity, a COP for all

- Garadagh is Masdar's first renewable energy project in Azerbaijan as the company expands its footprint across Caucasus and Central Asia

BAKU, Azerbaijan, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC - Masdar, the UAE's clean energy powerhouse, has signed agreements for solar and onshore wind projects with a total capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW) in Azerbaijan, following the inauguration of the region's largest operational solar plant, the 230MW Garadagh Solar Park.

The strategic agreements cover the progression of the first phase of a 10GW pipeline of renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan signed in June 2022. This follows the successful development of Garadagh, Azerbaijan's first foreign investment-based independent solar power project, and the largest solar plant in the region.

The inauguration of Garadagh was overseen by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar.

The 1GW clean energy agreements were signed by Masdar Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, HE Parviz Shahbazov and Azerbaijan Minister of the Economy, HE Mikayil Jabbarov.

Also in attendance at the inauguration were HE Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy; HE Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment and Deputy Chairman of Masdar; HE Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; HE Mohammed Murad Al Blooshi, UAE Ambassador to Azerbaijan, and HE Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and HE Elchin Bagirov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to the UAE attended.

HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate and Chairman of Masdar, said: "Garadagh is a testament to our shared commitment to diversifying the global energy mix. Azerbaijan's ambition to develop low and zero-carbon solutions through renewable energy, is exactly what the world needs at this time.

"The UAE is proud to support Azerbaijan's clean energy goals, to generate more than 30 percent of its overall energy capacity from renewables by 2030. We need all nations of the world to set out clear energy transition plans with clear targets for renewable energy capacity. As the UAE prepares to host COP28 in November, our North Star for climate action must be to keep the ambition of limiting global temperatures to 1.5C within reach."

Speaking at the inauguration event, Dr Sultan Al Jaber also commended His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev and the nation of Azerbaijan for its commitment to a defined, strategic plan of action to develop new industries, new jobs and green economic growth.

In his speech HE Dr Sultan said:

With just 34 days to COP28, Garadagh illustrates the practical action needed to turn the goals of the Paris Agreement into tangible reality.

Paris unified the world around a common goal, but since then, we have not seen enough action to close a massive emissions gap.

While investment in renewable energy continues to grow, with a record 500GW added globally this year, the world must triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 to keep 1.5 within reach.

It is critical to bring everybody to the table to be part of the solution. This is the spirit of inclusivity needed at COP28, bringing the world together to focus on solutions and results.

HE Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, commented: "Today is marked by the achievements of the state policy of the President of Azerbaijan, which prioritizes the development of renewable energy. The commissioning of the largest solar power plant based on the first foreign investment in our energy history, as well as the signing of investment agreements for the implementation of solar and wind energy projects with a capacity of 1000 MW, show that our country's green energy and green investment plans are successfully becoming a reality. Azerbaijan is pleased to realize its strategic goals as a green energy producing and exporting country with Masdar and these projects will play an important role in increasing the share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation capacity to 30 percent by 2030."

The Garadagh plant which represents Masdar's first project in the country, will generate half a billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power more than 110,000 homes, reducing carbon emissions by over 200,000 tonnes a year. The project is co-financed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, said: "The inauguration of Garadagh, the largest operational plant in the region, is a milestone achievement. Azerbaijan is a key strategic partner for Masdar and the signing of these additional agreements today pave the way to accelerate the scale of Azerbaijan's clean energy vision. Garadagh is the first in a number of potential projects to develop onshore wind, offshore wind, solar and green hydrogen with a total combined capacity of 10GW. This will lead to greater investment and international collaboration as we work together to help Azerbaijan achieve its ambitious climate goals."

As the UAE's clean energy powerhouse and one of the leading clean energy companies in the world, Masdar is accelerating the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges.

Established in 2006, Masdar is active in more than 40 countries with a total electricity generation capacity of more than 20GW. It has invested, or committed to invest, in worldwide projects with a combined value of more than US$30 billion with ambitious growth plans to reach 100GW and 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.

About Masdar

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is the UAE's clean energy champion and one of the largest companies of its kind in the world, advancing the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges. Established in 2006, Masdar is today active in over 40 countries, helping them to achieve their clean energy objectives and advance sustainable development. Masdar is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and under this ownership the company is targeting a renewable energy portfolio capacity of at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and an annual green hydrogen production capacity of up to 1 million tonnes by the same year.

For more information, please visit: http://www.masdar.ae and connect: facebook.com/masdar.ae and twitter.com/masdar.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258702/Masdar_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258701/Masdar_2.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1973446/Masdar_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/masdar-signs-1gw-clean-energy-agreement-in-azerbaijan-following-presidential-inauguration-of-garadagh-solar-park-largest-in-the-region-301968973.html
Brampton, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Star Navigation Systems Group Ltd. (CSE: SNA) ("Star" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on Star's sales initiatives in advancing aviation technology and driving shareholder value.

Anoop Brar, Interim-CEO states "There has been downward pressure on the entire global market, which is negatively impacting Star's share price over the past few weeks. The corporate and marketing progress that Star has made is not a correct reflection of the price in the market. With a foundation laid out earlier this year with respect to sales and marketing, we are close to getting the much-deserved traction. The sales cycle in aviation is quite long and with many factors influencing the final sales decision by an airline. The Star team is pushing forward to upgrade its products with new innovations, enter new markets and continuing to close on previously announced LOI's and sales leads."

Progress with LAPSSET

The Government of Kenya and the LAPSSET project has been delayed and hindered by a lack of government funding, putting the project on a hold. However, in the past few months, the Government of Kenya has made significant strides in securing and acquiring international funding to continue development and construction of the project.

Star's management and sales team have been invited to Kenya to continue discussions on the LAPSSET project to incorporate Star's Land and Marine Tracking.

In a letter addressed to Star, Stephen Ikua, Director General and CEO of the LAPSSET Corridor states "The Authority appreciates your interest to do business with us and the potential of making our transport systems efficient, safe, and seamless. We want to assure you that it is our desire to keep these discussions on going. Please bear with us, as we explore other avenues of financial resource mobilization."

"The replenished funding for Kenya's LAPSSET project signifies not only growth for the Kenyan Government but also renewed and invigorated discussions with Star. This development underscores the compelling value proposition of our technology solutions within the growing transportation, infrastructure and development sector of Kenya." Says Anoop Brar, Interim-CEO.

Accelerated Engagement in Africa

Star is pursuing sales and business development opportunities in Nigeria and Kenya, with new proposals that have been issued to airlines and governmental agencies in the past few weeks, laying the groundwork for market expansion and revenue diversification. Star has received official invitations not only from the Nigerian Military but other airlines as well.

Aero Contractors: On December 6th, 2022, Star announced a Letter of Intent ("LOI") with Aero Contractors which is still ongoing. The Star sales agents are currently in Lagos, Nigeria, for technical discussions with the customer, to convert the LOI into a firm purchase order contract.

Air Peace: Air Peace, Nigeria has requested a proposal from Star for the installation of the Star-ISMS for their fleet.

Astral Aviation: Star announced a sale for 7 aircraft on June 14th, 2022. Star's engineering team were in Nairobi, Kenya in February 2023 for primary inspections on three aircraft. Star has received an installation STC from Transport Canada for the Boeing 767 aircraft and the final operational approval of the STC's from Transport Canada is estimated to be complete after installations on the aircraft commencing in Q1 of 2024. We look forward to soon sharing concrete installation timelines from Astral Aviation, contributing to our growing market share and revenue streams.

Ethiopian Airlines: Star has submitted a proposal to Ethiopian Airlines for the installation of the Star-ISMS on one of their Boeing B737 aircraft to evaluate data transmission, inflight analysis, post flight tracking and proactive maintenance capabilities. A successful demonstration would possibly lead to a sale for their entire fleet of over 160 aircraft.

Nigerian Air Force

The Star team had a very successful series of technical and commercial meetings with high-ranking officers of the Nigerian Air Force during its 'Aviation Safety Conference' held in Lagos, Nigeria. In March 2023, Star received a formal 'Letter of Invitation' from the Nigerian Air Force inviting the Star Engineering team to Lagos and Abuja for inspections of their military aircraft ranging from the King Air 350, Falcon 900, C130 and the ATR 42 to name a few. The Star sales team is currently in Nigeria for the primary inspection of the Nigerian Air Force fleet and looks forward to equipping and modernizing the military with the Star ecosystem of hardware and software products.

Ongoing Sales Negotiations in Middle East

Star's discussions with AlAtheer for the remaining fleet and other operators continues, marking an optimistic outlook for our penetration into Saudi Arabian aerospace markets. Star is currently continuing to develop customizable data analytics features to secure sales contracts for three additional airlines who are interested in partnering with Star for their digital transformation.

Al Atheer, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The VVIP A310 aircraft belonging to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been operating for over the past 5 years and continues to generate reoccurring monthly revenue for Star. Live data feed from the aircraft is helping Al Atheer with positional tracking, aircraft health management and for Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) analysis.

AlMasria, Cairo, Egypt: The Covid pandemic negatively impacted AlMasria Airlines, which ceased to operate at full capacity during the pandemic. However, the airline is now in the process of recovering and has re-engaged in discussion with Star to have the Star-ISMS system upgraded to the latest Generation 3 software firmware for two of their A320 aircrafts and furthermore are currently in discussion for the installation on the remaining fleet of two Airbus A321 and two Boeing B737's.

About Star Navigation Systems - www.star-navigation.com

Star Navigation Systems Group Ltd. manufactures the In-flight Safety Monitoring System, STAR-ISMS, the heart of the STAR-A.D.S. System. The STAR-A.D.S. System has real-time capability of tracking, performance trends and predicting incident-occurrences which enhances aviation safety and improves fleet management while reducing costs for the operator.

Star's MMI Division (Military and Defence) designs and manufactures high performance, mission critical, flight deck flat panel displays for defence and commercial aviation industries worldwide.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that address or discuss activities, events or developments that Star expects or anticipates may occur in the future.

When used in this news release, words such as "estimates", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "projects", "will", "believes", "intends" "should", "could", "may" and other similar terminology are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations and beliefs of Star's management. Because forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, actual results, performance or achievements of Star or the industry may be materially different from those implied by such forward-looking statements.

Examples of such forward-looking information that may be contained in this news release include statements regarding; growth and future prospects of our business; our perceptions of the industry and markets in which we operate and anticipated trends in such markets; expectations regarding the operation of our app; and our future revenues.

Material factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making an estimate set out in the forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, our ability to execute on our business plan, increase visibility amongst consumers and convert users to revenue producing subscribers and the success of the business of our partners. Forward-looking statements involve significant uncertainties, should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved.

Should one or more of these factors or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

Accordingly, readers should exercise caution in relying upon forward-looking statements and Star undertakes no obligation to publicly revise them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law.

NEITHER 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.

Please visit www.star-navigation.com or contact

Anoop Brar, Interim-Chief Executive Officer at 1-416-252-2889

anoop.brar@star-navigation.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185337
ZURICH, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amcor (NYSE: AMCR, ASX: AMC), a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions, announced today that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SK Geo Centric (SK), a leading petrochemical company based in South Korea, to source advanced recycled material primarily in the Asia Pacific region beginning in 2025.

The MOU with SK will enable Amcor to provide access to packaging solutions using recycled content for food and healthcare customers in key markets in Asia Pacific, as well as globally, building on Amcor's existing global access to advanced recycled material through ExxonMobil, as well as its recent investment with Licella in Australia. Combined, these partnerships will help Amcor take another important step toward achieving its target of 30% recycled content across its portfolio by 2030.

"Our ability to deliver more sustainable packaging solutions containing recycled material is increasingly important to customers in all consumer categories," said Mike Cash, president of Amcor Flexibles Asia Pacific. "These partnerships will help enable Amcor to unlock opportunities for food and healthcare customers to leverage recycled content in their packaging, and will also foster a circular economy by significantly reducing the need for virgin plastic."

SK Geo Centric CEO Na Kyung-soo said, "We are committed to contributing to a circular economy by expanding the supply chain where pyrolysis oil, produced from end-of-life plastic, can provide recycled content in consumer packaging. Providing Amcor with access to that material is an important step forward."

SK extracts pyrolysis oil from end-of-life plastic waste that would otherwise be sent to landfill. SK is using post-processing technology the company developed. This can then replace crude oil as a feedstock for petrochemical processes and subsequently polyethylene to make new sustainable packaging materials for our customers.

About Amcor

Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions across a variety of materials for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home and personal-care, and other products. Amcor works with leading companies around the world to protect their products and the people who rely on them, differentiate brands, and improve supply chains through a range of flexible and rigid packaging, specialty cartons, closures, and services. The company is focused on making packaging that is increasingly lighter weight, recyclable and reusable, and made using an increasing amount of recycled content. In fiscal year 2023, 41,000 Amcor people generated $14.7 billion in annual sales from operations that span 218 locations in 41 countries. NYSE: AMCR; ASX: AMC

www.amcor.com I LinkedIn I Facebook I YouTube

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258700/Amcor_SK_1000x638.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/amcor-sk-geo-centric-partner-for-supply-of-recycled-content-301969021.html
Industry Visionary Brings Fresh Perspective and Expertise to Uve Beauty's Growing Empire

IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / UVe Beauty, a groundbreaking brand in the beauty industry known for its devotion to cleaner processes and cleaner skin, is delighted to announce that business mogul and serial entrepreneur Emily Ford is joining the company as co-owner.



UVe Beauty

Emily Ford / Co-Owner

Emily Ford is more than just an entrepreneur. She stands at the nexus of wellness, beauty, and lifestyle, with her unshakable faith guiding her ventures. Joining UVe Beauty is a testament to her vision of pushing boundaries and aligning with brands that share her values.

At the core of UVe Beauty's mission is a principle that may seem simple but is frequently overlooked: a cleaner process results in cleaner skin. This brand has never settled for the norm. It went a step further to design makeup tools that are not just the cleanest but also top-performing. Emily Ford's addition to UVe Beauty is set to amplify this vision. With her at the helm, the brand is poised to continue to disrupt the beauty industry, bringing forth innovative products and solutions that cater to modern needs while staying true to the core values of wellness and environmental sustainability."I am thrilled to embark on this journey with UVe Beauty. The brand's ethos aligns seamlessly with what I believe in. Together, we are set to bring unparalleled innovation to the beauty space, keeping our values and mission at the forefront," says Emily Ford.

UVe Beauty's initiative to partner with humanitarian organizations every quarter, aiming to shine a light on pressing global issues, resonates deeply with Emily's personal and professional mission.

Chris Norman, CEO of UVe Beauty, shares his enthusiasm about this collaboration, "Our alignment with Emily Ford signifies a promising new chapter for UVe Beauty. Her vision and dedication mirror our brand's ideals. Together, we look forward to introducing novel breakthroughs in the beauty space, with our values leading the way."

About Uve Beauty

Uve Beauty is a trailblazing beauty and cosmetics brand dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their unique beauty. Rooted in innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, Uve Beauty offers a diverse range of high-quality products crafted with the modern consumer in mind. From ethically sourced ingredients to their commitment to cruelty-free practices, Uve Beauty stands at the forefront of industry evolution, constantly striving to redefine beauty standards and promote self-expression. For more information, visit our website at https://uvebeauty.com/ or follow us on https://www.instagram.com/uvebeauty/.

About Emily Ford

Emily Ford is a renowned figure in the business and lifestyle industry. With an entrepreneurial career spanning over 13 years, Emily has been instrumental in shaping trends and elevating brand visions. Her recent partnership with Uve Beauty as co-owner marks a new chapter in her journey, promising to infuse the brand with her signature blend of creativity, expertise, and forward-thinking. For more on Emily Ford's work, visit https://meetemilyford.com/ or connect with her at https://www.instagram.com/itsemily/?hl=en.

Contact Information:

Jaiden Chase

PR Manager

jaiden@jaidenchase.com

SOURCE: Uve Beauty

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796810/emily-ford-joins-uv-beauty-as-co-owner
Businesses can now access consumer perception data for 700+ brands in the UK, US, and Australia across 15+ categories to help them measure the return on sustainability investments.

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Research platform Glow, the founding partner of the Social Responsibility Score (SRS), has released 700+ brand sustainability benchmark reports online. This extensive dataset covers the largest US, UK, and Australian brands across 15+ categories. The data has been made available through Glow's research publication store.

Report data

The sample reports provide insights into the sustainability performance of brands and their key competitors, utilizing SRS data. The SRS service captures consumer perceptions of brands' social, environmental, and governance behavior and can be used to measure any brand in 64 markets globally. In addition to consumers, SRS can be used to assess the views of other stakeholders, such as employees and investors.

Reports are accessible across more than 15 industries/categories in each market, including automotive, food and grocery, finance, telco, and travel. Major global brands, including Google, Adidas, Toyota, McDonald's, Coca-Cola, and sustainability leaders such as Patagonia, Dove, and Ben & Jerry's, are all covered in this data set. The reports can be accessed at https://portal.glowfeed.com/store.

The data enables brands, advisors, and consultants to evaluate if a brand is receiving the recognition it deserves for its ESG efforts.

"This is a useful data set for anyone wanting to place a value on the sustainability efforts of businesses because it indicates whether current and potential customers appreciate those efforts", says Mike Johnston, Managing Director of Data Products at Glow.

Julia Collins, Founder and CEO of Planet FWD, comments, "Even as the climate crisis deepens, we are seeing more and more progressive brands engage in 'greenhushing' for fear of reprisals. With six years to 2030, now, more than ever, we need the leading brands to celebrate their achievements and encourage others. We also need brands who haven't been in the fight to set climate goals and strategies. I hope this data encourages businesses to review their progress for both commercial reasons and ethical ones."

SRS Metric available under license

The SRS metric is being made available for use by any business under license from Glow. The SRS metric is already integrated with a number of leading solutions through a range of measurement partners. Businesses wanting to use the metric can register online for more information.

Tim Clover, Glow CEO comments:

"There is a proven commercial benefit from investing in sustainability. While many businesses have active ESG programs, most fail to measure stakeholder response to these efforts, which can lead to resource misallocation, employee disengagement, and consumer switching. Every business should be empowered to quantify their progress in the eyes of stakeholders, so we are making the SRS metric available to all under license."

For more information on licensing, visit srsmetric.com

-Ends-

Media Enquiries:

For more information, or to arrange an interview with Tim Clover, CEO of Glow please contact PR@glowfeed.com

About Glow:

Glow is a research technology ('restech') company founded in Australia, with offices in the UK, Hong Kong and the US.

Glow is on a mission to make consumer research faster, more transparent, and easily accessible so that businesses can make better decisions that fuel their growth and support their stakeholders and the planet. Glow is a proud member of the data for good movement which encourages businesses to use data to help better the world.

Glow was the SRS metric's founding partner, using its platform and resources to launch the benchmark data set. The metric is available for licensing by any business.

Read More

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Glow on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Glow

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/glow

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Glow

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796797/new-sustainability-data-brand-rating-reports
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Mary Kay



On September 13, as Mary Kay Inc. marked its 60th anniversary, the iconic beauty brand took its celebrations to the heart of the nation's capital. Hosting a "Mary Kay Day on the Hill" in Washington DC, the company showcased its commitment to advocating for women's entrepreneurship and empowerment at the highest levels.

The event was more than just a celebration-it was an opportunity for Mary Kay's Independent Beauty Consultants, both seasoned and new, to connect directly with their members of Congress and share their personal entrepreneurship journeys, highlighting the unique circumstances that led them to start their own businesses with Mary Kay. Their stories served as powerful testimonials, educating policymakers on the significance of the Mary Kay opportunity in their respective Congressional districts.

It was also an opportunity to highlight Mary Kay's impact in the community through the company's support of key initiatives which advance women's status to build more inclusive and resilient societies.

Discussions included:

the global partnership of the Women's Entrepreneurship Accelerator (WEA) incepted by Mary Kay in 2019, bringing together 6 UN Agencies, governments and the private sector to create an enabling ecosystem for women entrepreneurs around the world;

the company's support of increasing access to STEM educational opportunities for young women, and

the impact of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation since its launch in 1996, which has contributed more than $92 million to organizations on the frontlines of domestic violence response and cancer research for cancers affecting women.

Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), who attended the breakfast reception, underscored the importance of civic engagement, the need for women's entrepreneurship, and increased labor market participation.

Sheryl Adkins-Green, Mary Kay's Chief Experience Officer, paid tribute to Mary Kay Ash's vision from 60 years ago. She reflected on the company's journey, from its inception just weeks after Mary Kay Ash lost her husband, to its current global impact under the leadership of CEO Ryan Rogers, Mary Kay Ash's grandson. The theme of "Then, Now, Always" resonated throughout her speech, emphasizing the company's enduring commitment to changing lives worldwide.

The day was packed with meetings with Mary Kay representatives and Independent Beauty Consultants engaging with over 50 Congressional offices to speak about the importance of women's entrepreneurship and empowerment to create strong and inclusive societies.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Mary Kay on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Mary Kay

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/mary-kay

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Mary Kay

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796798/lipstick-and-legislation-mary-kay-inc-celebrates-60-years-of-womens-empowerment-on-capitol-hill
Thousands of wealthy expats in Portugal are being urged to act now to prepare for the end of the soon-to-be phased out Non-Habitual Residency (NHR) tax regime.

LISBON, Portugal, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- This follows a new 'Wealthy expats in Portugal survey report 2023' published at the end of October, where over 1000 affluent expats were interviewed and indicated that only 27% of current expats on NHR tax status had structured their tax and financial future in early preparation for the end of their ten-year NHR tax regime qualifying period.

More than 53,700 affluent expats in Portugal have taken advantage of the NHR tax regime - first launched in 2009 - but were left unsettled by the recent announcement by Portugal's Prime Minster, Antonio Costa, that it was to come to an end.

Portuguese government is due to issue more information on the final bill relating to the future of its tax regimes for expats in Portugal on the 29th of October 2023.

"Many affluent expats are perhaps too busy enjoying the fabulous lifestyle Portugal offers that they forget to plan ahead and structure their tax on income and assets for the long term," said David Vacani, CEO of Beacon Global Wealth Management who advises high net worth individuals based in Portugal and said this at a Portugal Pathways event to over 500 wealthy expats.

"We have always advised people that it's never too early to start looking at what happens after the NHR 10-year tax incentives expire, and this needs to be acted on way before in their NHR tax life" Vacani added.

Portugal Pathways experts urge wealthy expats already on NHR to act now to prepare for the end of the NHR tax regime.

David Vacani is also the chairman of FEIFA (Federation of European Independent Financial Advisors)

"If you take action within the first two to three years of your NHR tax status, you can end up paying a much lower tax rate over a prolonged period of time way beyond the 10-year qualifying period if you structure things correctly," Vacani said.

"Even if you are entering the last years of the NHR tax scheme, you still have time to take steps - but we would strongly advise you to act much sooner in years 1 to 7 than leaving it too late," he added.

Portugal remains an attractive destination for wealthy expats

Despite the changes to the NHR tax regime, Portugal remains an attractive destination for wealthy expats. The country offers a high quality of life, a Mediterranean climate, and a low cost of living.

"Portugal's appeal is certainly not diminishing - with thousands of affluent expats still drawn to its quality of life, 300+ days of sunshine, safety and security, culture, great investment opportunities and top-quality health care and education," said Steve Philp, a spokesman for Portugal Pathways.

Existing NHR tax holders need to mitigate future tax burdens now

Wealthy expats with NHR tax status in Portugal should act now to prepare for the end of the NHR tax regime. Portugal Pathways said they should seek specialist tax and financial planning advice from one of our partners to mitigate potential unnecessary progressive tax burdens of between 28% and 48% in the future. Contact Portugal Pathways tax and wealth management partners and arrange a no obligation initial consultation.

Alternatively register for our next webinar and understand more about what to do and how to act in relation to your NHR tax status to mitigate future progressive tax rates of between 28% and 48%.

About Portugal Pathways: Portugal Pathways is dedicated to assisting individuals in optimising their relocation or life strategy in Portugal. Collaborating with leading professional organisations, they provide essential information and advice for prospective and current expat residents of Portugal.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/according-to-new-report-by-portugal-pathways-only-27-of-current-nhr-tax-holders-in-portugal-prepared-for-the-future-301969049.html
Downturn in orders from US streaming platforms in the Kids segment.

Anticipation of lower sales in 2024 and suspension of the Ambition 2026 plan's target

Regulatory News:

Xilam Animation (Paris:XIL), Academy Award-nominated French animation studio, releases an update on its outlook in a market context where platforms are reducing their orders, especially in the children's program market.

US streaming platforms cut back on orders for the Kids segment

With their business models under pressure, American streaming platforms are significantly reducing their investment in the Kids animation segment. Today, they favor fewer investments, focusing on American brands with worldwide recognition.

Expected decline in 2024 sales and suspension of Ambition 2026 plan target

With this economic trend affecting one of Xilam's growth drivers, the Group now anticipates a significant drop in sales for 2024. The Group's target of achieving total operating income of 80 million by 2026 has therefore been suspended.

However, this event will have no impact on our expected performance for 2023, nor on our catalog business, which remains very dynamic.

Bolstered by its agility, the Group will continue to deploy its other key growth drivers.

Rapid implementation of a cost-cutting plan

Given this new context for one of its growth drivers, the Group is implementing a cost-cutting plan to maintain positive profitability in 2024, while maintaining its creative and production capacities to pursue its development.

Low level of debt

The Group has reduced its debt thanks to the repayment of its 15 million EuroPP loan, which matured in July 2023. To date, debt is mainly self-liquidating, and therefore backed by current production. The Group also has sufficient cash resources to support its ambitions for other growth drivers.

Marc du Pontavice, Chairman and CEO of Xilam, comments: "The depth of the animation market today is such that Xilam remains very well placed to take advantage of the many opportunities it offers. With our extensive catalog, creative talent and worldwide reputation, Xilam is determined to continue moving forward.".

About Xilam

As a major player in the animation industry, Xilam is an integrated studio founded in 1999 that creates, produces and distributes original programmes in more than 190 countries for children and adults, broadcast on television, and on SVoD (Netflix, Disney+, Amazon) and AVoD (YouTube, Facebook) platforms. With a global reputation for creativity and innovation, coupled with cutting-edge editorial and commercial expertise, the company has cemented its position as a key player in a fast-growing market. Every year, Xilam builds on soaring successes and capitalises on flagship franchises (Oggy and the Cockroaches, Zig Sharko, Chicky) as well as new brands (Oggy Oggy, Mr. Magoo, Karate Sheep), which are strengthening and expanding a substantial catalogue of more than 2,800 episodes and three feature films, including the Oscar-nominated I Lost My Body. Xilam has unique CGI skills and employs more than 600 people, including 400 artists, across its studios in Paris, Lyon and Angouleme in France and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Xilam was ranked France's leading animation studio for the 2018-2022 period in a report by the French national centre for cinema and animation (CNC).

Xilam is listed on Euronext Paris Compartment B PEA SRD long Eligibility.

ISIN: FR0004034072, Mnemo: XIL

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026776707/en/

Contacts:

Marc du Pontavice Chairman and CEO

Cecile Haimet CFO

Phone: +33 (0)1 40 18 72 00

Image Sept Agency

xilam@image7.fr

Karine Allouis (Media Relations) Phone +33 (0)1 53 70 74 81

Laurent Poinsot (Investor Relations) +33 (0)1 53 70 74 77
Adaptation of the development plan for the ACTISAVE phase 2/3 study, with clinical results expected as early as Q2 2024, to register glenzocimab in Europe and the United States by 2028 at the latest

UK regulatory agency (MHRA) approves protocol for LIBERATE phase 2b study, first clinical trial to evaluate glenzocimab in myocardial infarction

Cash and cash equivalents of 8 million at June 30, 2023

Regulatory News:

Acticor Biotech, (ISIN: FR0014005OJ5 ALACT), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing glenzocimab, an innovative drug for the treatment of cardiovascular emergencies, today publishes its half-year results to June 30, 2023, approved by the Board of Directors on October 26, 2023, and provides an update on its latest progress.

The 2023 half-year financial report is available to the public on the Investors/Regulated Information section of the company's website. The review of the half-year financial statements has been completed. The limited review report is in the process of being issued.

Financial highlights(limited review prepared in accordance with IFRS)

Given the Company's stage of clinical development, it does not generate revenues.

Research and development costs1amounted to 5,918 thousand euros at June 30, 2023, compared with 4,918 thousand euros at June 30, 2022. This increase is mainly due to progress in recruitment for the ACTISAVE phase 2/3 clinical trial.

Operating and administrative expenses amounted to 2,093 thousand euros at June 30, 2023, compared with 1,917 thousand euros at June 30, 2022.

The operating loss amounted to 8,821 thousand euros over the six-month period, compared with 7,270 thousand euros over the same period in 2022.

As a result, the Company recorded a net loss of 10,081 thousand euros at June 30, 2023, compared with 7,310 thousand euros for the same period in 2022.

At June 30, 2023, cash and cash equivalents amounted 8 million, compared with 6.6 million at December 31, 2022.

On March 9, 2023, the Company announced that it had successfully raised 12.2 million to pursue its registration ambition for glenzocimab in stroke.

At the date of preparation of these financial statements, the Board of Directors considers that the Company will be able to cover the financing requirements of its operating activities until at least the beginning of the second quarter of 2024, based on the following factors:

Net cash and cash equivalents (including bank overdrafts) at June 30, 2023, of

7,955 thousand euros;

7,955 thousand euros; Receipt in October 2023 of the balance of the recoverable BPI France advance of 1,200 thousand euros granted in November 2022 to finance the development of glenzocimab;

End of patient enrolment in the ACTISAVE study in October 2023, leading to a sharp reduction in financing requirements from that date onwards;

Expected consumption of cash by the Company's activities over the second half of 2023 and 2024.

Ability of the Company to pre-finance its 2023 CIR;

Ability of the Company to modulate its variable operating expenses within the framework of its studies.

Beyond its liquidity horizon, the Company will need additional funds to continue financing the development of its activities. Management has already taken steps to seek additional financing.

Major clinical and regulatory advances in 2023

Adaptation of the ACTISAVE phase 2/3 clinical trial in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke

In September 2023, following consultations with the European (EMA) and US (FDA) regulatory agencies, and in agreement with ACTISAVE's scientific committee, Acticor Biotech decided to change the primary endpoint of this study to a single, unique endpoint, namely the reduction in the number of patients who died or suffered severe disability as a result of the stroke (mRS score 4-6 at 90 days).

This modification of the primary endpoint, reducing the size of the study to 400 patients from the 1,000 initially planned, will thus enable clinical results to be obtained as early as the second quarter of 2024.

To date, the ACTISAVE trial in the USA, Europe, Israel, and the UK has enrolled over 430 patients.

Regarding the pharmaceutical development plan, Acticor received the opinion of the EMA and FDA agencies in the summer of 2023. The authorities confirmed the relevance of the registration strategy in terms of validation of the production process and characterization of glenzocimab. Recommendations have been proposed and will be considered in the roadmap, with no impact on the registration plan.

Based on the results of the ACTISAVE phase 2/3 study and the recommendations of international stroke experts, Acticor plans to consult the EMA and FDA again during 2024 to confirm that the phase 3 design will support registration in both Europe and the United States, envisaged no later than 2028.

Complementary results from AI-enhanced brain imaging data confirm the mode of action of glenzocimab in stroke patients in the ACTIMIS study

To better understand glenzocimab's mode of action in reducing intracranial hemorrhage, a collaboration has been set up with Brainomix, a UK-based company specializing in the evaluation of AI-powered imaging biomarkers, to further analyze the brain imaging results of the ACTIMIS study.

Using AI software developed by Brainomix, ischemic lesion and hemorrhagic transformation volumes were measured and quantified. This objective assessment of the evolution of the cerebral lesion caused by the stroke was then compared with the clinical results. Initial results obtained using these biomarkers showed that, after treatment, patients receiving glenzocimab had lower volumes of brain damage than patients receiving placebo (standard treatment only), mainly due to a significant reduction in volumes of hemorrhagic transformation. The benefit of glenzocimab appears more pronounced in patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy after initial treatment with a thrombolytic agent.

UK regulatory agency (MHRA) approves protocol for LIBERATE study, the first clinical trial evaluating glenzocimab in myocardial infarction

The LIBERATE study (IRAS -1005400), conducted in partnership with the University of Birmingham (UK), and expert clinicians from the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, received all regulatory approvals to launch the study in August 2023.

This randomized, double-blind Phase 2b study will include over 200 patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) scheduled for percutaneous coronary intervention. The aim of the study is to assess the safety and efficacy of glenzocimab 1000 mg versus placebo in reducing myocardial infarction size after 90 days. The study will be conducted at two UK hospitals: Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham and Northern General Hospital, Sheffield. Patient enrolment is due to begin by the end of 2023.

Start of patient enrolment in Phase 2/3 GREEN stroke trial

Conducted under the auspices of Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, and part of the RHU BOOSTER program, with financial support from the Agence Nationale de la Recherche and the Programme Investissements d'Avenir, the GREEN study (NCT05559398) has begun with the enrollment of the first patients at the beginning of 2023.

As a reminder, the primary objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of glenzocimab in combination with endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) versus EVT alone within the first 24 hours, on functional outcome at 90 days (mRS). Secondary objectives are to evaluate the impact of glenzocimab on overall survival, reperfusion, clinical improvement at 24 hours, symptomatic and asymptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, serious adverse events (SAE), serious unexpected adverse events (SUSAR) and quality of life. The study will include nearly 260 patients eligible for mechanical thrombectomy in 11 French neurovascular units and institutions of excellence.

The interim analysis, to be carried out after inclusion of the first 78 patients will take place in the first half of 2024.

Governance

Appointment of Patricia Zilliox to the Board of Directors as an independent director

Patricia Zilliox has joined Acticor Biotech's Board of Directors as an independent director, replacing Corinne Le Goff, whose multiple directorships in the United States meant that she was no longer able to fulfill her role with Acticor Biotech. This appointment was ratified by the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 12, 2023.

Outlook

Acticor Biotech continues to develop its strategic plan to demonstrate the efficacy of its drug glenzocimab and bring it to registration for the treatment of stroke. The next clinical steps in the treatment of cardiovascular emergencies are:

ACTISAVE phase 2/3 study in stroke: final results expected in Q2 2024.

Phase 2b LIBERATE study in the treatment of myocardial infarction: inclusion of the first patient is scheduled before the end of 2023.

Phase 2/3 GREEN study in stroke: an interim analysis will be carried out after inclusion of the first 78 patients in H1 2024.

About ACTICOR BIOTECH

Acticor Biotech is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, a spin-off from INSERM (the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research), which is aiming to develop an innovative treatment for cardiovascular emergencies, including ischemic stroke.

The positive results of the phase 1b/2a study, ACTIMIS, confirmed the safety profile of glenzocimab and showed a reduction in mortality and intracerebral hemorrhage in the glenzocimab-treated group of stroke patients. The efficacy of glenzocimab is now being evaluated in an international Phase 2/3 study, ACTISAVE, which will include 400 patients, with clinical results expected in Q2 2024.

In July 2022, Acticor Biotech was granted "PRIME" status by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for glenzocimab in the treatment of stroke. This designation will allow the company to strengthen its interactions and obtain early dialogues with regulatory authorities.

Acticor Biotech is supported by a panel of European and international investors (Mediolanum farmaceutici, Karista, Go Capital, Newton Biocapital, CMS Medical Venture Investment (HK) Limited, A&B (HK) Limited, Anaxago, and the Armesa foundation). Acticor Biotech is listed on Euronext Growth Paris since November 2021 (ISIN: FR0014005OJ5 ALACT).

For more information, visit: www.acticor-biotech.com

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Acticor Biotech and its business. Acticor Biotech believes that these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions. However, there can be no assurance that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements will materialize as they are subject to risks, including those described in the Registration Document as approved by the Autorite des marches financiers under number R. 22-011 on April 26, 2022, and to changes in economic conditions, financial markets and the markets in which Acticor Biotech operates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are also subject to risks that are unknown to Acticor Biotech or that Acticor Biotech does not currently consider material. The occurrence of some or all of these risks could cause Acticor Biotech's actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.

Appendix

Income statement in accordance with IFRS 30/06/2023 30/06/2022 6 months 6 months '000 ' 000 Research and development costs, net (5,918) (4,918) Of which research and development costs (7,074) (6,237) Of which grants 1,156 1,320 Operating and administrative expenses (2,093) (1,917) Costs relating to share-based payments (810) (435) Other operating income and expenses Operating income (loss) (8,821) (7,270) Financial expenses (1,734) (40) Financial income 474 1 Income (loss) before tax (10,081) (7,310) Income tax Net profit (loss) for the period (10,081) (7,310) Attributable to shareholders of the parent company (10,081) (7,310) Non-controlling interests Weighted average number of shares in circulation 11,631,540 10,545,776 Basic earnings per share (/share) (0.87) (0.69) Diluted earnings per share (/share) (0.87) (0.69)

Statement of financial position in accordance with IFRS 30/06/2023 31/12/2022 K K ASSETS Intangible assets 713 713 Property, plant and equipment 28 14 Non-current financial assets 522 479 Total non-current assets 1,263 1,206 Other receivables 4,428 4,840 Prepaid expenses 656 298 Cash and cash equivalents 7,955 6,599 Total current assets 13,039 11,737 Total Assets 14,302 12,943 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Shareholders' equity Share capital 617 527 Issue or contribution premiums 35,155 23,327 Other comprehensive income (11) (10) Accumulated losses attributable to owners of the Company (25,312) (10,209) Net profit (loss) attributable to owners of the Company (10,081) (15,878) Equity attributable to owners of the Company 368 (2,243) Non-controlling interests Total shareholders' equity 368 (2,243) Non-current liabilities Employee benefit obligations 85 56 Non-current borrowings 4,342 7,062 Non-current derivative liabilities 901 1,367 Provisions Total non-current liabilities 5,328 8,485 Current liabilities Current borrowings 2,706 801 Trade payables 5,265 5,141 Tax and social security liabilities 635 615 Other current liabilities 144 Total current liabilities 8,606 6,701 Total liabilities and equity 14,302 12,943

1 Net of research tax credit and grants.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026846206/en/

Contacts:

ACTICOR BIOTECH

Gilles AVENARD, MD

General Manager and founder

gilles.avenard@acticor-biotech.com

T.: +33 (0)6 76 23 38 13

Sophie BINAY, PhD

Chief Operating Officer and

Scientific Director

Sophie.binay@acticor-biotech.com

T.: +33 (0)6 76 23 38 13

NewCap

Mathilde BOHIN Quentin MASSE

Investor Relations

acticor@newcap.eu

T.: +33 (0)1 44 71 94 95

NewCap

Arthur ROUILLE

Media Relations

acticor@newcap.eu

T.: +33 (0)1 44 71 00 15
Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, October 26

For immediate release

26 October 2023

FINSBURY GROWTH & INCOME TRUST PLC

(the "Company")

MARKET PURCHASE OF COMPANY'S OWN SHARES

The Company announces that it has today purchased 98,475 of its own shares ("Ordinary Shares") at a price of 799.10 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 22,592,994; 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 202,398,309.

The figure of 202,398,309 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
Mid Wynd International Investment Trust Plc - Result of AGM

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, October 26

Mid Wynd International Investment Trust plc ('the Company')

Legal Entity Identifier: 549300D32517C2M3A561

Result of Annual General Meeting

Following the Annual General Meeting ('AGM') of the Company, held on 26 October 2023, the Board is pleased to announce that all ordinary and special resolutions were duly passed.

A copy of the Company's Annual Report & Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2023, which contains the full text of the resolutions in the Notice of Annual General Meeting is available for viewing at the National Storage Mechanism https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism and on the Company's website at www.midwynd.com .

Valid proxy votes received were as follows:

Resolution Total votes for/discretion % Total votes against % Total votes (exc. votes withheld) Total votes withheld Ordinary Resolutions 1 To receive and adopt the Annual Financial Report of the Company for the financial year ended 30 June 2023 together with the Report of the Directors. 12,143,458 99.97 3,110 0.03 12,146,568 6,071 2 To approve the Directors' Remuneration Policy. 11,979,324 99.00 121,061 1.00 12,100,385 52,254 3 To approve the Director's Remuneration Report for the year ended 30 June 2023. 12,009,491 99.21 95,334 0.79 12,104,825 47,814 4 To approve a final dividend of 3.95 pence per ordinary share for the year ended 30 June 2023. 12,144,877 99.97 3,110 0.03 12,147,987 4,652 5* To re-elect Russell Napier as a Director of the Company. 9,681,641 79.93 2,431,565 20.07 12,113,206 39,433 6 To re-elect Diana Dyer Bartlett as a Director of the Company. 11,773,026 97.16 344,026 2.84 12,117,052 35,587 7 To re-elect David Kidd as a Director of the Company. 11,772,490 97.16 343,970 2.84 12,116,460 36,179 8 To re-elect Alan Scott as a Director of the Company. 10,589,643 87.41 1,525,474 12.59 12,115,117 37,522 9 To elect Hamish Baillie as a Director of the Company. 12,113,834 99.93 8,262 0.07 12,122,096 30,543 10 To re-appoint Johnston Carmichael LLP as Independent Auditors of the Company. 12,128,680 99.93 9,055 0.07 12,137,735 14,904 11 To authorise the Directors to determine the remuneration of the Independent Auditor. 12,133,841 99.96 4,673 0.04 12,138,514 14,125 12 To authorise the Directors to allot ordinary shares pursuant to section 551 of the Companies Act 2006. 12,101,608 99.76 29,615 0.24 12,131,223 21,416 Special Resolutions 13 To authorise the Directors to make market purchases of up to 14.99 per cent of the Company's issued share capital. 11,137,595 91.71 1,007,184 8.29 12,144,779 7,860 14 To authorise the Directors to disapply statutory pre-emption rights when allotting ordinary shares. 12,001,546 98.88 136,096 1.12 12,137,642 14,997 15 To authorise the calling of a general meeting at 14 clear days' notice. 12,019,058 99.00 121,904 1.00 12,140,962 11,677

*Resolution 5, the re-election of the Chairman of the Board received less than 80% of the votes cast in favour. As disclosed within the Company's Annual Report & Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2023, Mr Napier has signalled his intention to step down from the Board of the Company at the 2024 AGM. The Board does, however, intend to consult with shareholders to discuss any specific concerns that have influenced their voting and a statement detailing the outcome of this consultation, including views received from shareholders and any actions taken as a result, will be published by the Company no later than 26 April 2024 in accordance with the AIC Code of Corporate Governance.

As at the record date of 24 October 2023, the Company's issued ordinary share capital comprised of 66,381,114 ordinary shares of which 10,071,798 ordinary shares were held in Treasury. Therefore, the total number of ordinary shares with voting rights in the Company was 56,309,316.

In accordance with Listing Rule 9.6.2, copies of the special business resolutions passed at the AGM will be submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at: https://data.fca.org.uk/#/nsm/nationalstoragemechanism .

All enquiries to:

Juniper Partners Limited, Company Secretary

0131 378 0500

26 October 2023
Redde Northgate Plc - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, October 26

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

26 October 2023

REDDE NORTHGATE PLC

("Redde Northgate" or the "Group" or the "Company")

Transaction in Own Shares

Redde Northgate plc (LSE:REDD) announces that on 26 October 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 : 316.5 pence per share Highest purchase price paid : 316.5 pence per share Lowest purchase price paid : 316.5 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 16,365,071 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 229,726,352 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 Transaction (as at 26 October 2023)

Number of shares

purchased Transaction price

(GB pence per share) Time of transaction Transaction reference number Venue 75,000 316.50 08:52:00 00067514348TRLO0 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:
Chartres, 26/10/2023 - OSMOSUN, a leading provider of solar-powered seawater and brackish water desalination solutions, today announces its financial communication agenda for 2024. (ISIN code: FR001400IUV6 - Mnemonic: ALWTR)

FINANCIAL CALENDAR

2023 annual revenue: 26 March 2024

2023 annuel results: 23 April 2024

2024 half-year revenue: 24 September 2024

2024 half-year results: 29 October 2024

This calendar of publication dates is for reference only and is subject to change if necessary. Each publication will be released after Euronext Paris market closing, except other indication.

Next publication: FY 2023 revenues, 26 March 2024 after market close

ABOUT OSMOSUN

Founded in 2014, OSMOSUN's ambition is to become a leading player in the low-carbon water market in order to make drinking water accessible to all.

OSMOSUN has developed a unique, patented, cost-effective, clean and sustainable solution for solar-powered battery-free seawater and brackish water desalination. This innovation makes OSMOSUN units among the most energy-efficient and cost-effective solutions in the world. The water production capacities of its units range from 1 m3 to 50,000 m3 per day.

At 31 December 2022, 59 desalination units have been sold in 27 countries.

In 2022, the Group generated revenues of 4.6 million.

More information: OSMOSUN | Create water where life is

CONTACTS

SPECIALIZED PRESS FINANCIAL PRESS INVESTOR RELATIONS Nadege Chapelin Anne-Charlotte Dudicourt Helene de Watteville n.chapelin@nc-2.com acdudicourt@actus.fr osmosun@actus.fr +33 6 52 50 33 58 +33 1 53 67 36 32 +33 1 53 67 36 33

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Full and original release in PDF format:https://www.actusnews.com/documents_communiques/ACTUS-0-82541-agenda-financier-2024_eng.pdf
Current cash runway to mid-November 2023; August financing's 2 nd tranche for 4m conditioned notably to 2 nd batch successful manufacturing expected early November

tranche for 4m conditioned notably to 2 batch successful manufacturing expected early November New RECOVER Phase III trial design endorsed overall by the EMA; trial expected to start in Q2 2024

Successful 1 st GMP batch manufactured in September; 2 nd batch ongoing with results expected early November 2023

GMP batch manufactured in September; 2 batch ongoing with results expected early November 2023 Discussions on further financing and strategic options including M&A ongoing

Regulatory News:

GenSight Biologics ("GenSight Biologics" or the "Company") (Euronext: SIGHT, ISIN: FR0013183985, PEA-PME eligible), a biopharma company focused on developing and commercializing innovative gene therapies for retinal neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system disorders, today reported its cash position as of September 30, 2023, and provided a business update.

Cash position as of September 30, 2023

GenSight Biologics' cash and cash equivalents totalled 2.4 million as of September 30, 2023, compared to 1.0 million as of June 30, 2023.

In August 2023, GenSight Biologics signed a 10 million bridge financing with Sofinnova Partners, Invus and UPMC Enterprises1 (the "Bridge Financing"), and drew down the first tranche of 6 million in the form of convertible bonds with a conversion price of 0.7122 euros (the "Convertible Bonds 2023

In connection with the drawdown of this first tranche and following discussions in the recent weeks, GenSight Biologics has obtained from its existing creditors, subject to certain conditions:

a waiver by the BNP Paribas, CIC, Bpifrance (together, the "Banks"), the European Investment Bank ("EIB") and Heights on any provision which could trigger early repayment of their debt until January 31, 2024;

- an agreement of the EIB and Heights on the pari passu treatment of the Convertible Bonds 2023 with the convertible bonds issued in 2022 to Heights (the "Convertible Bonds 2022");

- a deferral of principal payments due to the Banks until January 31, 2024;

- the suspension of Heights' conversion rights with respect to the Convertible Bonds 2022 until January 31, 2024;

- deferral of principal payments due to Heights in connection with the redemption of the Convertible Bonds 2022 until January 31, 20242; and

- a waiver by the EIB of any adjustment right it has under the subscription agreement relating to the warrants issued in the context of the facility agreement signed by GenSight Biologics and the EIB on December 22, 2022, and in particular the anti-dilution provision contained in this subscription agreement.

The Company has agreed with its existing creditors that the drawdown of the second tranche of the Bridge Financing shall occur at the latest on November 15, 2023.

The second tranche is conditioned to either the successful production of at least two successive GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) batches of LUMEVOQ or unanimous approval of the three investors.No guarantee can be given that the Company will satisfy the conditions precedent for the second tranche of the Bridge Financing.

Sofinnova Partners, Invus, UPMC Enterprises and the Company agreed to extend the deadline until November 15, 2023, for the satisfaction of the condition precedents for the drawdown of the second tranche of the Bridge Financing to allow for the second GMP batch to be completed.

In parallel, the Company is also advancing on discussions with potential partners on strategic opportunities, including a merger or acquisition, assessed as one of the options to move forward.

As of today, the Company is financed through mid-November 2023. If the Company is not able to raise additional funds or achieve M&A opportunities in the short term, there is substantial doubt regarding its ability to continue as a going concern as indicated in the limited report of the auditors relating to the 2023 half-year financial statements of the Company3. The cash runway would be extended to December 2023 with the drawdown of the second tranche of the Bridge Financing for an amount of 4 million. Following the drawdown of the second tranche, GenSight Biologics need to seek other sources of debt or equity financing beyond December 2023 in order to supplement its working capital requirements and fund its operating expenses until the resumption of the early access program in France (Autorisation d'Acces Compassionnel or AAC) expected at the end of the first quarter of 2024.

Manufacturing Update

GenSight Biologics is planning to manufacture at least 3 GMP batches at commercial scale outside the context of a validation campaign4, to generate more process data for a future Marketing Authorisation Application (MAA) submission, to provide more experience of the manufacturing process to the operating teams, and to fulfil the immediate requirement of supplying product for a possible new clinical trial and for the potential resumption of an early access program for patients in Q1 2024.

The manufacturing of these batches started as planned in August 2023, and successful results of the first drug substance batch were announced in September 20235. A second batch is currently being manufactured. The results of the second batch are now expected early November 2023 instead of October 2023 initially. Assuming the 2nd batch is successfully manufactured with a vg titer within the required range, full quality control tests would then be undertaken on the two successful batches, potentially leading to full release of the drug product for human use in Q1 2024.

Regulatory Update

In July 2023, GenSight Biologics requested scientific advice from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to discuss a new regulatory pathway for LUMEVOQ in Europe, including the potential need for generating additional clinical data. The EMA provided its feedback in September6 regarding the design of a new Phase III trial for LUMEVOQ

The new study, which will be called RECOVER, will be a randomized controlled trial with a two-arm design: a sham control arm, in which a sham procedure mimics an injection into each eye but no substance is injected into the eye, and a treatment arm, in which subjects will be given bilateral intravitreal injections of LUMEVOQ (also known as GS010). The proposed study design also contains an open-label extension, in which subjects in the sham arm will be eligible to receive LUMEVOQ bilateral injection if the primary endpoint is met.

The RECOVER study is designed to address the questions raised by the EMA's Committee for Advanced Therapies (CAT) when it reviewed the MAA filed in 2020. The Company decided to withdraw its application in April 2023 to be able to discuss EMA's concerns more fully. RECOVER will be able to begin recruiting once the design is finalized; the product is manufactured and released for human use; and approval is obtained from local competent authorities and ethics committees. GenSight Biologics expects to initiate the study in Q2 2024 and to have it completed by H2 2026, provided that the Company obtains the means to finance it.

GenSight also plans to share key aspects of RECOVER's design with other regulatory authorities such as the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). An initial discussion with the MHRA is scheduled to take place in November 2023. The Company plans to engage with the FDA in the coming months, so that RECOVER results will be accepted by all major regulatory authorities.

Update on the PIONEER Phase I/II clinical trial of GS030

The clinical batch used to treat patients affected with Retinitis Pigmentosa in the PIONEER Phase I/II clinical trial of GS030 has now reached the end of its current shelf-life extension. The recruitment of the extension cohort has therefore been paused. Only one patient out of the planned 3 has been included in the extension cohort. GenSight Biologics will explore ways to supply the clinical trial and reopen the recruitment. The initiation of a possible Phase III trial of GS030 in the treatment of Retinitis Pigmentosa is still expected in 2026.

Number of outstanding shares

As of September 30, 2023, GenSight Biologics' number of outstanding shares was 46,335,591 ordinary shares.

About GenSight Biologics

GenSight Biologics S.A. is a clinical-stage biopharma company focused on developing and commercializing innovative gene therapies for retinal neurodegenerative diseases and central nervous system disorders. GenSight Biologics' pipeline leverages two core technology platforms, the Mitochondrial Targeting Sequence (MTS) and optogenetics, to help preserve or restore vision in patients suffering from blinding retinal diseases. GenSight Biologics' lead product candidate, LUMEVOQ (GS010; lenadogene nolparvovec), is an investigational compound and has not been registered in any country at this stage; a marketing authorization application is currently under review by the EMA for the treatment of Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a rare mitochondrial disease affecting primarily teens and young adults that leads to irreversible blindness. Using its gene therapy-based approach, GenSight Biologics' product candidates are designed to be administered in a single treatment to each eye by intravitreal injection to offer patients a sustainable functional visual recovery.

1 https://www.gensight-biologics.com/2023/08/03/gensight-biologics-obtains-funding-of-e10-million-from-sofinnova-partners-invus-and-upmc-enterprises/

2 The conditions of the waiver from Heights (in particular the modification of the price limit and the insertion of additional amortization rights in the terms and conditions of the Convertible Bonds 2022) are described in the press release dated August 3, 2023: https://www.gensight-biologics.com/2023/08/03/gensight-biologics-obtains-funding-of-e10-million-from-sofinnova-partners-invus-and-upmc-enterprises/. Sofinnova Partners and Invus have undertaken to vote in favour of the modification of the terms and conditions of the Convertible Bonds 2022 that will be proposed at the next shareholders' general meeting.

3 https://www.gensight-biologics.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/GENSIGHT_RFS_2023_VDEF.pdf.

4 A validation campaign, or Process Performance Qualification (PPQ) campaign, consists of at least 3 successful GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice, required standards for human use outside of a clinical trial) batches manufactured sequentially to demonstrate and document the robustness, control, consistency and reproducibility of the commercial manufacturing process at the designated commercial facility. This exercise is required only as part of a Marketing Authorisation Application with the EMA and a Biologics License Application (BLA) with the FDA.

5 https://www.gensight-biologics.com/2023/09/18/gensight-biologics-announces-successful-manufacture-of-lumevoq-gmp-batch/

6 https://www.gensight-biologics.com/2023/09/27/gensight-biologics-provides-update-on-european-medicines-agency-scientific-advice-for-lumevoq/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026474989/en/

Contacts:

GenSight Biologics

Chief Financial Officer

Thomas Gidoin

tgidoin@gensight-biologics.com

LifeSci Advisors

Investor Relations

Guillaume van Renterghem

gvanrenterghem@lifesciadvisors.com

+41 (0)76 735 01 31
FORT WORTH, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Hannover House, Inc. (OTCPINK:HHSE) is hosting the world premiere screening and red-carpet event for the family appeal motion picture, "WILDFIRE: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse." Media are invited to attend this sold-out event for red carpet photos and interviews with principal cast and crew members. The event is Thursday, November 2nd at the Isis Theatre in Fort Worth, Texas. Red Carpet set up opens at 5:30-pm, and talent will arrive beginning at 6:15-pm for the 7:00-p;m screening.

Broadcast media, stills photographers, journalists, bloggers and specialty publications are invited to attend and to meet and speak with the film's creators and stars. The Isis Theatre is located in Downtown / Cowtown of Fort Worth, at 2401 N. Main Street, Fort Worth, TX 76164.

For confirmed red carpet positions, contact event manager Desiree Garnier at 479-283-8318, or Desiree@HannoverHouse.com.

"Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse"

MEDIA ALERT & TIP SHEET

Red-Carpet Sneak-Peek Preview Event

Confirmed attendees include: Chevel Shepherd (Winner of NBC's "THE VOICE"), Mo

Brings Plenty ("YELLOWSTONE"), Michael Martin Murphey (Country music legend and

writer of the #1 worldwide hit song that inspired this film), director Eric Parkinson, and Special Cast Guests from the Martin Scorsese hit, "KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON". There will be a special live musical performance featuring Chevel Shepherd and Michael Martin Murphey immediately

Downloadable IMAGES and BROADCAST Clips are available at EPK.TV. Additional information is available at www.WildfireMovie.com

Title Fact Sheet

Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse

2023 Production, Family-Drama, 105 Minutes, Color, Dolby Stereo, not yet rated.

(anticipated MPAA Rating of PG) - Written and Directed by ERIC PARKINSON

Studio listing: HANNOVER HOUSE

Official Movie Website: https://wildfiremovie.com/

One Liner:

A young girl finds solace to her grief when she befriends a wild horse in this uplifting film, which

was inspired by the hit song by Michael Martin Murphey and a Cherokee legend.

Synopsis:

Inspired by the # 1 worldwide hit song by Michael Martin Murphey - and the legend of the Cherokee ghost horse - WILDFIRE tells a story of redemption and forgiveness as a young girl deals with her guilt following the tragic death of her parents. With the family facing financial ruin, the survivors move from Texas to Oklahoma to live with the Grandma Bette on her horse farm outside of Tahlequah. Emotionally lost and distraught, young Samantha finds peace from the attention she receives from a mysterious wild horse that seems to be following her as she walks home from school each day. Eventually, Samantha is able to contact and ride the horse - and with training help from a champion rodeo cowgirl - she enters competitive rodeo barrel racing and begins to accept her new situation. But her guilt remains, as Samantha hides the dark secret that she feels responsible for her parent's death. She cannot forgive herself. With the help of a local Cherokee spiritual leader and the wisdom of the town's local pastor,

Samantha comes to realize a greater truth and a solace to her worries. Was the horse real? Or was it a spiritual messenger to help guide Samantha? Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse combines a tale of native spirituality with Christian doctrine and values to create an enchanting film for all audiences.

PRINCIPAL CREATIVE TEAM:

Director: ERIC PARKINSON - ("Future Shock")

Producers: CHRISTIAN LARGE - ("Cowboys of Cannabis")

ERIC PARKINSON - ("Grizzly Mountain")

KYLE MARTENS - ("Topper")

Writers: ERIC PARKINSON - ("Savage Land")

MIKE SNYDER - ("Strike a Pose")

Editor: ANDREW BOWCOCK - ("Eclipse")

Composers: MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & TRAVIS FITE

Cinematographers: ANDREW PARKE, BRETT REYNOLDS

Cam. Ops Team: JOSHUA IRWIN, DAVID HUFF, SACHA THOMAS

Exec. Producers: MORTEN STISEN, DAN SCHOLEFIELD, JONATHAN CHENG, KEITH

BLASINGAME, MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY, MIKE SNYDER and DR. YOOJIN LEE WILLIAMS

PRINCIPAL CAST:

CHEVEL SHEPHERD - Winner of NBC's "THE VOICE" - in the lead role of Samantha Nichols, a 16-year-old girl from Plano, Texas, who finds her life completely upended after the sudden, tragic death of her parents.

ANNE HECHE - One of the top screen stars of the 1990's and 2000's, Anne brings her charm to the role of Diana Jones, the horse trainer who helps Samantha learn competitive rodeo. WILDFIRE

represents Anne's final feature film release, due to her tragic death by a car accident in August 2022.

MO BRINGS PLENTY - This popular Native American actor is best known for his role on five seasons of "Yellowstone." Moses portrays Udeli, a Cherokee spiritual leader who helps Samantha find a path for her life.

ADRIAN PAUL - Star of the hit television series, "Highlander," Adrian brings a stable sensibility and charm to his role as Parker Nichols, father to Samantha and a tech industry invention wizard.

MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY - Country music legend and writer of the #1 worldwide hit song (1975) that inspired this film, Murphey portrays Pastor Micah, the town's religious leader and

community pillar.

OLIVIA SLATTON-FITE - Olivia enlivens every scene in this impressive screen debut, including the performance of her original song, "The Land." She is now working extensively now a high fashion model.

THESA LOVING - A veteran of the New York Actor's Studio, Thesa has the performance skills to handle the difficult role as Grandma Bette, who takes in her two grandchildren and Aunt Susan to live on her horse farm.

CARA JADE MYERS - Cara's stunning performance in Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" has inspired awards chatter - and she brings her abundant screen charm to the role of Shari Nichols,

Samantha's mom.

For More Information Contact:

Desiree Garnier

Desiree@HannoverHouse.com

479-283-8318

SOURCE: Hannover House

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796818/media-alert-the-stars-will-shine-at-the-wildfire-movie-premiere-in-fort-worth
CIBT's Global and national clients can now access services in Hong Kong.

NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CIBT, a leading provider of visa, immigration and document services, is announcing the expansion of its services in Hong Kong. Previously, CIBT offered immigration and work permit services through its Newland Chase brand. Now, services in Hong Kong will expand to include the CIBTvisas brand.

CIBTvisas specializes in navigating the complexities of the visa process by simplifying the ability to work and travel overseas. Among the services now available in Hong Kong, through the CIBTvisas brand, are business and tourist visas, extensive visa support for some of Hong Kong's most popular outbound destinations, and documentation services including legalizations and police clearance certificate assistance. The office will also offer support for Hong Kong residents in obtaining APEC cards.

"Hong Kong is a strategic location for corporate travel and global mobility and leisure travel," said Steven Diehl, CIBT's Chief Corporate Development and Emerging Markets Officer. "Expanding our services there complements our existing footprint of wholly-owned offices in the world's major economic centers. Our clients seek the same level of service and expertise for their employees and having an office in Hong Kong enables us to meet these needs."

To support these additional services in Hong Kong, CIBT has hired local subject matter experts with deep knowledge of the visa processes in Hong Kong. The goal is to provide CIBTvisas' clients with personalized and effective service, built off CIBT's industry-leading technology and proprietary knowledge database. As a result, CIBTvisas is ready to partner with clients in business mobility and global travel to and from Hong Kong.

The service expansion marks CIBT's acknowledgment of the importance of the APAC market in business and global mobility and is part of CIBT's ongoing global expansion strategy. CIBTvisas services in Hong Kong will be supported by Latha Olavatth, VP, Client Relationship Management and Jasmin DelaCruz, Account Manager.

For more information, please visit https://corporate.cibt.com and follow CIBT on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter)and Instagram.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1740635/CIBT_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/cibt-expands-travel-visa-service-capabilities-in-hong-kong-301969130.html
The first scholarship winner, Amashia Mabone, is to be honored on November 10th at the 6K Energy office in Jackson, TN

NORTH ANDOVER, Mass., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- 6K Energy, a leader in the sustainable production of critical materials for lithium-ion batteries, today announced in concert with Lane College, the selection of the first recipient of the newly created scholarship "$6K for 6K Scholars", Amashia Mabone.

Amashia is a sophomore at Lane College, studying chemistry. The scholarship program supports academically talented students majoring in biology, chemistry, computer science, mathematics, or physics who are interested in pursuing a career in industry.

"We are very excited to formally announce a well-deserving student, Amashia Mabone, as our first scholarship recipient at Lane College," said 6K Energy COO Rob Davies. "At 6K Energy, it is paramount that we help eager students like Amashia to not only offset tuition expenses but also provide a summer internship, allowing her to gain valuable hands-on experience working side by side with professionals creating the first domestically produced battery material in the US."

Earlier this year, 6K Energy announced the PlusCAM factory, a full-scale battery material manufacturing plant located in Jackson, TN scheduled to open in late 2024 with a 13,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) production capacity. The PlusCAM factory will be the world's first UniMelt plasma cathode plant, providing low-cost, ultra-sustainable battery material production for localized supply chains in the US. In addition, the company previously announced a $50M Department of Energy grant opportunity that will partially fund the $200+ million PlusCAM factory.

Lane College President Dr. Logan Hampton added, "I am ecstatic for Amashia and thankful to 6K Energy for working with Lane College in creating the "$6K for 6K Scholars" program. We know how overwhelming it can be trying to tackle the cost of college. We recognize the commitment 6K Energy has made with the program and appreciate how they have quickly become a desired employer for students of Lane College."

Amashia is a member of the Lane College Power of Potential Scholarship group. Outside of her studies, she enjoys expanding her knowledge through reading and honing her writing skills. She is also a talented musician and expresses her talents through her participation in the Lane College band.

Notes for Editors

6K press releases are available here: https://www.6kinc.com/6k-inc-news-room/

About 6K

With sustainability at its core, 6K has developed UniMelt, a proprietary advanced microwave plasma production system, to transform engineered materials into revolutionary products that advance industries across additive manufacturing, renewable energy, aerospace, consumer electronics, and more. 6K represents 6000 degrees, both the temperature of the operation of UniMelt, the world's only microwave production scale plasma system and the temperature of the sun's surface. 6K was founded in North Andover, Massachusetts.

The 6K Energy division is focused on the production of low-cost, sustainable, and domestically produced battery material accelerating the pace of battery production and adoption of electric vehicles. The 6K Additive division specializes in sustainably sourced, AM metal powders production and reclamation, using a proprietary milling and cleaning process that ensures contamination-free, high-quality powders. For more information, visit www.6K-energy.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/6k-energy-announces-the-creation-of-the-6k-for-6k-scholars-with-lane-college-in-jackson-tennessee-301969146.html
IRVINE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Employee volunteers from the Chicago metropolitan area branches of Allied Universal visited areas of Chicago hit hardest by homelessness to distribute coats, clothing, shoes and meals as part of the company's Project THERE Souls to Soles project on Oct. 17.

This year's annual event distributed 200 meals, 235 coats, 200 pairs of pants, 250 pairs of socks, and 35 pairs of shoes to approximately 235 people in need.

"Project THERE partners with charitable organizations within the community that help large groups of people and allow our employees to volunteer their time to assist in any way they can," said Brian Webber, Allied Universal president of the Midwest region. "This initiative gives our team members the opportunity to give back to the community that they both live and work in through acts of service."

Employees of Allied Universal, the world's leading global security and facility services provider, hold Project THERE community outreach events nationwide. The company's philanthropic initiative empowers employees to engage with the community, foster meaningful connections and elevate the well-being of those in need.

The success of the Chicago Project THERE event was made possible through the kindness and generosity of organizations within the community and include:

McDonald's donated the 150 meals, with a local franchise offering a 25% discount on additional meals. McDonald's also generously provided clothing items collected at various locations and allowed Allied Universal team members to utilize their headquarters for organizing all donations.

Pacific Uniform donated coats and pants.

JLL, a global real estate services company, collected and donated coats.

In addition, Michael Newberry, regional vice president at Allied Universal, demonstrated support by contributing 50 meals for the outreach event.

Project THERE is Allied Universal's philanthropic initiative that empowers employees to engage with the community, foster meaningful connections and elevate the well-being of those in need.

About Allied Universal

The world's leading security and facility services provider and trusted partner to more than 400 of the FORTUNE 500, Allied Universal delivers unparalleled customer relationships, innovative solutions, cutting-edge smart technologies and tailored services that enable clients to focus on their core businesses. With operations in over 100 countries, Allied Universal is the third-largest private employer in North America and seventh in the world. Annual revenue is more than $20 billion. There is no greater purpose and responsibility than serving and safeguarding customers, communities and people. For more information, visit www.aus.com.

# # #

Media Contact:

Kari Garcia

Director of Public Relations

Allied Universal

Phone: 949-826-3560

Email: Kari.Garcia@aus.com

SOURCE: Allied Universal

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796843/allied-universal-employees-distribute-clothing-and-meals-to-unsheltered-residents-in-chicago
Orion S.A. (NYSE: OEC), a global specialty chemicals company, today announced the launch of PRINTEX kappa 10 a high-quality conductive additive that will supply surging demand from producers of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, energy storage systems and consumer applications.

The new product, produced with furnace technology in Europe and eventually in Asia, marks a crucial expansion of Orion's portfolio of conductive additives. The company also makes other kappa grades with the acetylene process.

PRINTEX kappa 10 facilitates a more efficient transfer of electrical energy within lithium-ion batteries. It forms a percolating network that enables the electrons to flow. This enhances the performance and power response during both charging and discharging.

The conductive additive works for both anode and cathode. It is also compatible with lithium-ferrous-phosphate (LFP) batteries, nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and other batteries.

"At Orion, we're focused on products enabling more efficient and powerful lithium-ion batteries that help to decarbonize mobility. PRINTEX kappa 10 is a key part of our strategy for expanding our business for such conductive additives," said Orion CEO Corning Painter. "Our strength lies in our dedication to innovation and delivering sustainable solutions for our customers," Painter added. "As the world increasingly turns towards electric mobility, the demand for high-quality conductive additives like PRINTEX kappa 10 will grow."

Orion invites interested parties to visit the company's website or contact the sales team for more information about PRINTEX kappa 10.

About Orion S.A.

Orion S.A. (NYSE: OEC) is a leading global supplier of carbon black, a solid form of carbon produced as powder or pellets. The material is made to customers' exacting specifications for tires, coatings, ink, batteries, plastics and numerous other specialty, high-performance applications. Carbon black is used to tint, colorize, provide reinforcement, conduct electricity, increase durability and add UV protection. Orion has four innovation centers and produces carbon black at 15 plants worldwide, offering the most diverse variety of production processes in the industry. The company's corporate lineage goes back more than 160 years to Germany, where it operates the world's longest-running carbon black plant. Orion is a leading innovator, applying a deep understanding of customers' needs to deliver sustainable solutions. For more information, please visit orioncarbons.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information, other than as required by applicable law.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026809347/en/

Contacts:

William Foreman

Director of Corporate Communications and Government Affairs

Orion S.A.

Direct: +1 832-445-3305

Mobile: +1 281-889-7833

william.foreman@orioncarbons.com

Wendy Wilson

Head of Investor Relations

Orion S.A.

Direct: +1 281-974-0155

wendy.wilson@orioncarbons.com
THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Tier One Silver Inc. (TSXV:TSLV) ("Tier One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it is undertaking a non-brokered private placement of up to 15 million units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at an offering price of C$0.10 per Unit for gross proceeds to the Company of up to C$1,500,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit shall consist of one common share of the Company (a "Share") and one full common share purchase warrant of the Company (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of C$0.25 at any time on or before the date which is 24 months after the closing date of the initial tranche of the Offering (the "Closing Date"). The Warrants are subject to accelerated expiry to the date that is 30 days following the date of a news release issued by the Company announcing the accelerated expiry date in the event that the closing price of the common shares of the Company is greater than C$0.50 for 10 consecutive trading days on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") any time after the first 12 months from the Closing Date.

The proposed use of proceeds from the Offering is to fund general working capital.

In accordance with applicable securities laws, the Shares and Warrants issued under the Offering will be subject to a statutory four-month and one day hold period from the date of issuance in Canada. While the Offering is non-brokered, the Company may pay a cash finder's fee equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds and issue finder's warrants ("Finder's Warrants") equal to 6.0% of the number of Units sold under the Offering to eligible persons who refer investors to the Company, where permitted by applicable law and in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at the exercise price of C$0.25 for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date.

The initial closing of the Offering is anticipated to occur on or about November 10, 2023, subject to the receipt of investor documentation, funds, corporate and TSXV approval. There is no minimum upon which the closing of the Offering is conditional, and any upsize will be announced in the context of the market.

Insiders of the Company may participate in the Offering. The issuance of Units to insiders is considered a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in related Party Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation as neither the fair market value of any securities issued to nor the consideration paid by such person could exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

The securities issued pursuant to the Offering 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. Accordingly, the securities issued pursuant to the Offering may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF TIER ONE SILVER INC.

Peter Dembicki President, CEO and Director

For further information on Tier One Silver Inc., please contact the company at (778) 729-0700 or info@tieronesilver.com.

About Tier One Silver

Tier One Silver is an exploration company focused on creating value for shareholders and stakeholders through the discovery of world-class silver, gold and base metal deposits in Peru. The Company's management and technical teams have a strong track record in raising capital, discovery and monetization of exploration success. The Company's exploration assets in Peru include: Corisur and the flagship project, Curibaya. For more information, visit www.tieronesilver.com.

Forward Looking Information and General Cautionary Language

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events in connection with the planned financing. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and therefore may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be heavily relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. In particular, and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements in regard to the size, closing and use of proceeds of the Offering.

Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Company's Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion & Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators available at www.sedarplus.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.

SOURCE: Tier One Silver Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/796897/tier-one-silver-to-raise-c15-million-in-equity-financing
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - 1329291 B.C. Ltd. (the "Company") announces the resignation of Dan Nauth as a director of the Company, effective immediately. The Company would like to thank Mr. Nauth for his contribution to the Company and wishes him all the best in his future endeavours.

Jen Thor, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, has been appointed a director of the Company, effective immediately. Ms. Thor is a Law Clerk at Irwin Lowy LLP. Ms. Thor serves or has served as an officer and/or director of several private and public companies. Ms. Thor is a member of the Institute of Law Clerks of Ontario.

For further information, please contact:

Jen Thor

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tel: (416) 361-2820

This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185357
Calgary, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Florence One Capital Inc. (TSXV: FONC.P) ("Florence" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent (the "LOI") with Privestia BV ("Privestia"), outlining the general terms and conditions with respect to the proposed acquisition (the "Proposed Acquisition") by Florence of all of the issued and outstanding securities of Privestia.

It is anticipated that the Proposed Acquisition of Privestia will constitute a reverse takeover and Florence's "Qualifying Transaction" under Policy 2.4 - Capital Pool Companies of the Corporate Finance Manual of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange"). Assuming completion of the Proposed Acquisition, it is anticipated that Florence will graduate to Tier 1 of the Exchange as a technology issuer. Following the completion of the Proposed Acquisition, Florence is referred to herein as the "Resulting Issuer". All currency references used in this news release are in Canadian currency unless otherwise noted.

About Privestia BV

Privestia is a private company incorporated pursuant to the laws of the Netherlands that has the right to acquire platform technology that provides a highly efficient, safe, convenient means for individuals to switch form one type of transportation to another to get to and from their desired locations. Privestia's current business objective, both today and after the completion of the proposed Qualifying Transaction, is to consolidate the current mobility market through detailed, hands-on deliberation and decision-making. The efforts by Privestia to consolidate the mobility market to date, include Privestia's proposed initial acquisitions, where a software platform was built that currently serves approximately 1 million B2C users and numerous large B2B companies. This platform uniquely enables the seamless integration of all modes of transportation, including planes, public transport, cars, bikes, and more, into a single, cohesive journey. This service is offered not only directly to its own users but is also provided as a service to other companies. Privestia serves mobility hubs in places where people transition between different modes of transportation known as "Mobihubs." Additional acquisitions will further increase revenues and earnings while Privestia expands both geographically as well as with the range of services provided.

Terms of the Proposed Acquisition

The LOI contemplates that Florence and Privestia will negotiate and enter into a definitive agreement in respect of the Proposed Acquisition on or before November 17, 2023, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties (the "Definitive Agreement"), pursuant to which it is anticipated that Florence will acquire all of the issued and outstanding securities of Privestia (the "Privestia Securities"), and securityholders of Privestia will receive securities of Florence in exchange for their Privestia Securities pursuant to the proposed terms of the LOI and pending Exchange acceptance.

It is currently anticipated that Florence will acquire Privestia by way of a three-cornered amalgamation, share exchange, plan of arrangement or other similar form of business combination transaction as agreed by the parties, to ultimately form the Resulting Issuer. The final structure of the Proposed Acquisition is subject to the receipt of tax, corporate and securities law advice for both Florence and Privestia. Upon completion of the Proposed Acquisition, the Resulting Issuer will carry on the business of Privestia under the brand name of name Qonnected Mobility.

It is also anticipated that Florence and/or Privestia will complete a concurrent financing in connection with the Proposed Acquisition in an amount to be determined (the "Private Placement").

In the event that the Proposed Transaction is consummated, aggregate finders' fees equal to 0.8% of the enterprise value of the Resulting Issuer (prior to taking effect of the Private Placement) will be payable to an arm's length party and a non-arm's length party, either in securities of the Resulting Issuer or cash, at the election of Florence.

Certain securities to be issued pursuant to the Proposed Transaction are expected to be subject to restrictions on resale or escrow under the policies of the Exchange, including the securities to be issued to principals (as defined under Exchange policies), which will be subject to the escrow requirements of the Exchange.

Closing of the Proposed Acquisition will be subject to a number conditions, including, without limitation: approval of the Proposed Acquisition by the boards of directors of Florence and Privestia; execution of a Definitive Agreement effecting the Proposed Acquisition; approval of matters relating to the Proposed Acquisition by the shareholders of Florence, receipt of all regulatory approvals with respect to the Proposed Acquisition and the listing of the Resulting Issuer Shares on the Exchange; and approval of matters relating to the Proposed Acquisition by the shareholders of Privestia.

There can be no assurance that all of the necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals will be obtained or that all conditions of closing will be met.

The Proposed Acquisition is not a "Non-Arm's Length Qualifying Transaction", as such term is defined in Policy 2.4 of the Exchange and consequently, the Proposed Acquisition will not be subject to approval by Florence's shareholders.

Name Change

Upon completion of the Proposed Acquisition, it is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will continue the business of Privestia under the name "Qonnected Mobility, Inc." or a name to be mutually agreed to by Florence and Privestia (the "Name Change"). The parties expect that the Exchange may assign a new trading symbol for the Resulting Issuer.

Sponsorship

The Proposed Acquisition is subject to the sponsorship requirements of the Exchange unless an exemption from those requirements is granted. Florence intends to apply for an exemption from the sponsorship requirements; however, there can be no assurance that an exemption will be obtained. If an exemption from the sponsorship requirements is not obtained, a sponsor will be identified at a later date. An agreement to act as sponsor in respect of the Proposed Acquisition should not be construed as any assurance with respect to the merits of the Proposed Acquisition or the likelihood of its completion.

Filing Statement

In connection with the Proposed Acquisition and pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange, Florence intends on filing a information circular/filing statement on its issuer profile on SEDAR+ ( www.sedarplus.com ), which will contain relevant details regarding the Proposed Acquisition, Florence, Privestia and the Resulting Issuer.

Additional Information

The Proposed Acquisition is expected to require the approval of the shareholders of Florence. If required, Florence will hold a meeting of shareholders to seek all necessary approvals, the details of which will be disclosed once available.

Additional information regarding the Proposed Acquisition will be provided in future news releases.

Trading in the common shares of Florence has been halted, and will remain halted, pending the satisfaction of all applicable requirements of Policy 2.4 of the Exchange. There can be no assurance that trading of common shares of Florence will resume prior to the completion of the Proposed Acquisition. Further details concerning the Proposed Acquisition (including additional information regarding Privestia) and other matters will be announced when a Definitive Agreement is reached.

Completion of the Proposed Acquisition is subject to a number of terms and conditions, including and without limitation to the following: (i) negotiation and execution of the Definitive Agreement; there being no material adverse changes in respect of either Florence or Privestia; the parties obtaining all necessary consents, orders, regulatory and shareholder approvals, including conditional approval of the Exchange; completion of other required corporate changes of Florence; completion of a thorough business, legal and financial review by each party of the other party; and other standard conditions of closing for a transaction in the nature of the Proposed Acquisition. Trading of Florence's common shares will remain halted pending further filings with the Exchange.

About Florence One Capital Inc.

Florence is a "capital pool company" within the meaning of the policies of the Exchange that has not commenced commercial operations and has no assets other than cash. The board of directors of Florence currently consists of Messrs. Mohammad Fazil, Scott Reeves, Viswanathan Karamadam, James Tworek, Emmanual Paul, Qiang Guo.

The officers of Florence are currently Mohammad Fazil, President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary-Treasurer. Except as specifically contemplated in the Exchange's CPC policy, until the completion of its Qualifying Transaction (as defined under the policies of the Exchange), Florence will not carry on business, other than the identification and evaluation of companies, business or assets with a view to completing a proposed Qualifying Transaction.

For further information, please contact:

Mohammad Fazil

President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Secretary-Treasury and Director

Telephone: (403) 613-7310

Email: mofazil@gmail.com

Completion of the transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, Exchange acceptance and if applicable pursuant to Exchange Requirements, majority of the minority shareholder approval. Where applicable, the transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the management information circular or filing statement to be prepared in connection with the transaction, any information released or received with respect to the transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of a capital pool company should be considered highly speculative.

The TSX Venture Exchange Inc. has in no way passed upon the merits of the proposed transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

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.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" as defined under applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to: the terms and timing of the Proposed Acquisition (including the entering into of a Definitive Agreement); statements concerning the Resulting Issuer following completion of the Proposed Acquisition (including composition of the board of directors and management team); completion of the Proposed Acquisition; and expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors.

Forward-looking information is based upon certain material assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including management's perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other considerations that are believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. While management of Florence considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available, there is no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions will not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities will not be achieved. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information include: the ability to consummate the Proposed Acquisition; the ability to obtain requisite regulatory and security holder approvals and to satisfy other conditions to the consummation of the Proposed Acquisition on the terms and at the times proposed; the impact of the announcement or consummation of the Proposed Acquisition on relationships; changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; changes in applicable laws; changes in government regulation and regulatory compliance; and the diversion of management time on the Proposed Acquisition. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Readers are cautioned to consider these and other factors, uncertainties and potential events carefully and not to put undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is stated as of the date of this news release. Florence 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.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185399
Capelle aan den IJssel, The Netherlands 26 October 2023 - GeoJunxion publishes the convocation and meeting agenda for an Extraordinary General Shareholders Meeting (EGM) to be held on 12 December 2023.



The meeting materials and the convocation including the agenda are available on the GeoJunxion website.

INVITATION TO ATTEND AN EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS OF GEOJUNXION N.V.

GeoJunxion N.V. (the 'Company') invites its shareholders to attend an Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders ('EGM') to be held on Tuesday 12 December 2023 at 10:00 hrs. (CET) at the offices of the Company at the address Rivium Quadrant 75, 9th floor, 2909 LC, Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands. Registration for admission shall commence at 09:00 hrs. (CET) and shall end at 10:00 hrs. (CET).

Agenda

1. Opening



2. Approval of the Share Sale (as defined in the explanatory notes to the agenda) pursuant to Section 2:107a of the Dutch Civil Code (Burgerlijk Wetboek) (the 'DCC') (voting item) VOTING 3. Dissolution of GeoJunxion N.V. in accordance with Section 2:19 DCC, with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer (as defined in the explanatory notes to the agenda) and subject to Completion (as defined in the explanatory notes to the agenda) (voting item) VOTING 4. Appointment of Stichting JTC Liquidator (as defined in the explanatory notes to the agenda), as liquidator (vereffenaar) of the Company without supervision of the Supervisory Board of the Company and determination that the liquidator shall be reimbursed for its reasonable salary and costs in so far and to the extent that such salary and costs are covered and compensated by Road Runner B.V., with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer and subject to Completion (voting item) VOTING 5. Appointment of GeoJunxion B.V. as custodian (bewaarder) of the books, records and other data carriers of the Company in accordance with Section 2:24 DCC, with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer and subject to Completion (voting item) VOTING 6. Acceptance of the voluntary resignation of, and granting of full and final discharge to, all resigning members of the Management Board of the Company, with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer and subject to Completion (voting item) VOTING 7. Acceptance of the voluntary resignation of, and granting of full and final discharge to, all resigning members of the Supervisory Board of the Company, with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer and subject to Completion (voting item) VOTING 8. Approval of the Distribution (as defined in the explanatory notes to the agenda) as soon as possible after receipt of the proceeds from the Proposed Transaction, with effect as of the moment immediately after execution of the Deed of Transfer and subject to Completion (voting item) VOTING 9. Questions 10. Closing

Meeting Documents

The agenda and explanatory notes thereto, are available on the Company's website. The aforementioned documents are also available at the offices of the Company, Rivium Quadrant 75, 2909 LC, Capelle aan den IJssel, Tel. +31 (10) 8851200, Fax +31 (10) 8851240, the Netherlands) and at ING Bank N.V. (Issuer Services, location TRC 02.039, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD Amsterdam, the Netherlands or e-mail: agm.pas@ing.com), and will be available at the meeting.

Record Date and registration

Those shareholders who are registered in one of the (sub)registers designated by the Management Board, on Tuesday 14 November 2023 at 17:00 (CET), following processing of all settlements per this date (the 'Record Date'), have the right to attend the EGM and exercise their voting rights in accordance with the number of shares held on the Record Date. The designated (sub)registers are the administration records of the intermediaries in the meaning of the Securities Giro Act (Wet Giraal Effectenverkeer) and the shareholders register of the Company.

Shareholders of electronic securities, who wish to attend the EGM or to give a proxy (with voting instructions), should register electronically with Evote by ING (via https://evote.ingwb.com), or through their intermediaries at which their shares are administered, in the period starting Wednesday 15 November 2023 up to and including Tuesday 5 December 2023 17:00 (CET).

No later than Wednesday 6 December 2023 at 13:00 (CET), the intermediaries have to provide ING (via https://evote.ingwb.com) with an electronic statement that includes details of the shareholder concerned and its number of shares held on the Record Date, for those shareholders that applied for registration. The receipt of the registration, supplied by ING via the relevant intermediary, will serve as confirmation to attend the EGM.

Shareholders registered in the Company's shareholders' register who wish to attend the EGM or to give a proxy (with voting instructions), should register either by mail (ING, Issuer Services, location 2 TRC02.039, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD Amsterdam, the Netherlands, or by e-mail: agm.pas@ing.com), in the period starting Wednesday 15 November 2023 up to and including Tuesday 5 December 2023 17:00 (CET). The confirmation of registration will serve as confirmation to attend the EGM.

Voting and attending by proxy

Shareholders who wish to grant a proxy to Mr. Cees Molenaar, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, or his substitute, each of them severally (the 'Chairman'), or wish to authorize a third party to attend the meeting on their behalf, may do so in the manner described below, provided that they have applied for the meeting in time in the manner described above.

Electronic proxy to the Chairman of the Supervisory Board

Shareholders of electronic securities may grant an electronic proxy including a voting instruction to the Chairman of the Supervisory Board in the period starting Wednesday 15 November 2023 up to and including Tuesday 5 December 2023 17:00 (CET). This is possible via https://evote.ingwb.com or using the Proxy Voting form available on the Company's website.

Written proxy to the Chairman of the Supervisory Board or a third party

A form for a written proxy to third parties or the Chairman is available on the Company's website or can be asked for at ING (telephone +31 (0)20 5762716; email: agm.pas@ing.com). The completed proxy forms must be sent to ING, either by mail (ING, Issuer Services, location TRC02.039, Foppingadreef 7, 1102 BD Amsterdam, the Netherlands) or by e-mail (agm.pas@ing.com) and must be received by ING in the period starting Wednesday 15 November 2023 up to and including Tuesday 5 December 2023 17:00 (CET).

Registration and identification at the meeting

Registration for admission to the EGM will take place from 09:00 hrs. (CET) until 10:00 hrs. (CET). After this time registration is no longer possible. Persons entitled to attend the meeting may be asked for identification prior to being admitted by means of a valid identity document, such as a passport, identity card or driver's license.

Questions regarding the agenda items

Until Thursday 7 December 2023, registered shareholders may submit written questions about the items on the agenda, by email to info@geojunxion.com. These questions will be answered ultimately during the EGM. Questions about all agenda items can also be asked during the EGM.

Number of issued and outstanding shares

On the date of the notice for this EGM, the number of issued and outstanding shares in the capital of the Company is 4,246,178 ordinary shares, each representing one vote.





Capelle aan den IJssel, the Netherlands, 26 October 2023

The Management Board and the Supervisory Board of GeoJunxion N.V.





This is a public announcement by GeoJunxion N.V., pursuant to article 17, paragraph 1 of the European Market Abuse Regulation (596/2014). This public announcement does not constitute an offer, or solicitation of an offer, to buy or offer securities in GeoJunxion N.V.





GeoJunxion NV Head Office - Rivium Quadrant 75 - 2909 LC Capelle aan den IJssel - The Netherlands - Phone: 31 (0)10 885 1200 - Fax: 31 (0)10 885 1230 - www.geojunxion.com (https://eur01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.geojunxion.com%2F&data=04%7C01%7Cfrancesco.altamura%40geojunxion.com%7C9ed602b9e8ac44d8d8e608d987544aa3%7C8487d18b33354fcda87773079cbd37aa%7C0%7C0%7C637689618368353131%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=yBJuxPdNCYvA11ZCM38JmzPOlWmcQwsl9tSQFlyrKqc%3D&reserved=0)

Attachments
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Excellon Resources Inc. (TSX: EXN) (OTCQB: EXNRF) (FSE: E4X2) ("Excellon" or the "Company") announces that it has rescheduled its annual and special meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting") from November 7, 2023 to November 23, 2023. The Meeting will be held virtually at 2:00 p.m. (Toronto time). The record date for the Meeting continues to be September 25, 2023.

At the Meeting, shareholders will vote on the proposed restructuring of the Company's 5.75% secured convertible debentures announced on September 21, 2023, among other business of the Company. Meeting materials will follow in due course.

Pursuant to the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange, the Company was required to hold its annual meeting of shareholders on or before June 30, 2023. As announced on July 20, 2023 and August 30, 2023, the Toronto Stock Exchange granted the Company extensions to the deadline for holding its annual meeting of shareholders. The Toronto Stock Exchange has granted the Company a further extension to accommodate an updated meeting date.

About Excellon

Excellon's vision is to realize opportunities through the acquisition of advanced development or producing assets with further potential to gain from an experienced management team for the benefit of our employees, communities and shareholders. The Company is advancing a portfolio of silver, base metals and precious metals assets including Kilgore, an advanced gold exploration project in Idaho; and Silver City, a high-grade epithermal silver district in Saxony, Germany with 750 years of mining history and no modern exploration.

Additional details on Excellon's properties are available at www.excellonresources.com.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Excellon Resources Inc.

Shawn Howarth, President & Chief Executive Officer

info@excellonresources.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained, referenced or incorporated by reference in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as: "actively", "advance", "anticipated", "assess", "believe", "cause", "commence", "completion", "conditions", "consideration", "continues", "development", "due course", "expectation", "exploration", "extend", "extension", "flexibility", "focused", "forbearance", "forward", "further", "future", "if", "implement", "liquidity", "looking", "maturity", "may", "negotiations", "occur", "opportunities", "options", "outcome", "outstanding", "potential", "providing", "reach", "restructuring", "risk", "subject to", "to be", "update", "vision", "waive", "when", "will", and "would", or variations of such words, and similar such words, expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results can, could, may, should, to, will, would (or not) be achieved, occur, provide, result, complete or support in the future or which, by their nature, refer to future events. In some cases, forward-looking information may be stated in the present tense, such as in respect of current matters that may be continuing, or that may have a future impact or effect. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding details of the Meeting and the business to be conducted at the Meeting; and Excellon's vision and development of its core asset portfolio; and any updates to the market regarding any of the foregoing. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct, and any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future actions, results or performance. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, estimates, expectations and opinions, which are considered reasonable and represent best judgment based on available facts, as of the date such statements are made. If such assumptions, estimates, expectations and opinions prove to be incorrect, actual and future results may be materially different than expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance of the Company to be materially different from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors include, among others, the "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated March 31, 2023 (the "2023 AIF"), and the risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors identified in this news release, the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis, and accompanying financial statements, for the year ended December 31, 2022 and quarters already ended in 2023, and the Company's other applicable public disclosure (collectively, "Company Disclosure"). The foregoing list of risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors is not exhaustive; readers should consult the more complete discussion of the Company's business, financial condition and prospects that is provided in the 2023 AIF and the other Company Disclosure. The forward-looking statements referenced or contained in this news release are expressly qualified by these Cautionary Statements as well as the Cautionary Statements in the other Company Disclosure. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release (or as otherwise expressly specified) and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185369
Account Labs, a Singapore-based company created by the merger of smart contract wallet provider UniPass and hardware wallet developer Keystone, raised $7.7m in funding.

The round was led by Amber Group, MixMarvel DAO Ventures, and Qiming Ventures.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its development efforts.

Led by Lixin Liu, CEO, Frank Lou, COO, Aaron Chen, CTO, and John Zhang, Chief Scientist, Account Labs provides:

Keystone, a hardware wallet that utilizes QR codes for data transmission, ensuring the security of mnemonic phrases and private keys by keeping them off the internet. It has established integration with software wallets across all platforms, including MetaMask, Rabby Wallet, Keplr Wallet, Core, BitKeep, and supports over 1000 digital currencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum (along with other EVM chain-based digital assets), Tron, Polkadot, Cosmos, Near, Aptos, and more.

UniPass, a non-custodial smart contract wallet that provides a seedless and gasless user experience. UniPass allows users to have a crypto wallet without the need to remember recovery phrases. Its email-based social recovery solution will make it simple for users to regain access in the event that you ever lose it or are even compromised.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Co-Founders of CentML, from left to right: Anand Jayarajan  Chief Architect, Akbar Nurlybayev  COO, Gennady Pekhimenko  CEO and Shang Wang  CTO. Image courtesy of CentML (CNW Group/CentML)

CentML, a Toronto, Canada-based provider of a software platform that improves the performance and cost of deploying ML models, raised $27M in funding.

The round was led by Gradient Ventures, Googles AI-focused venture fund, with participation from Radical Ventures, NVIDIA, Deloitte Ventures, and Thomson Reuters Ventures.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its development efforts.

Founded in 2022 under the leadership of CEO Gennady Pekhimenko, a renowned expert in ML systems and a team of co-founders with expertise obtained at companies like Amazon, Google, NVIDIA, and IBM, CentML provides a software platform that allows clients to optimize AI models for peak performance and cost-efficiency. Within its platform, users can fine-tune algorithms, pinpoint inefficiencies, and access real-time analytics.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Direqt, a Seattle, WA-based provider of a AI chatbot platform built exclusively for publishers, raised $4.5M in funding.

The round saw participation from Todd Parker, Peter Callahan, Ron Antevy, and Dave Walsh.

The company intends to use the funds to expand its customizable AI chatbot solution.

Led by CEO John Duffy, Direqt provides an AI chatbot platform built exclusively for publishers. Used by media companies including ESPN, The Independent, The Sun, Cosmopolitan and more, it enables chatbot publishers to create, grow, and monetize conversational audiences anywhere they are. Publishers leverage its platform to train their chatbots exclusively on their own content to deliver experiences in their brand voice. Over 75 publishers are already leveraging Direqt to empower their chat experience and reach over 260 million users through Direqts chatbot discovery network.

Direqts chatbot platform unlocks key benefits for publishers, including:

Content Control: Publishers can train their custom AI chatbot on their unique content and refine personality and brand voice using the Direqt platform.

Publishers can train their custom AI chatbot on their unique content and refine personality and brand voice using the Direqt platform. Configurable AI : Publishers can determine which AI features are enabled for their chatbot, ensuring that all publishers can leverage chat in a way that is aligned with their overall AI strategy.

: Publishers can determine which AI features are enabled for their chatbot, ensuring that all publishers can leverage chat in a way that is aligned with their overall AI strategy. Deepen Engagement : Chatbots can be embedded on publishers websites to increase time-on-site, pageviews, and overall reader engagement.

: Chatbots can be embedded on publishers websites to increase time-on-site, pageviews, and overall reader engagement. Reach New Audiences: Chatbots can be distributed across multiple platforms through Direqts chatbot distribution network, including social media apps and messaging apps reaching hundreds of millions of previously unreachable audiences.

Chatbots can be distributed across multiple platforms through Direqts chatbot distribution network, including social media apps and messaging apps reaching hundreds of millions of previously unreachable audiences. Unlock New Revenue : Publishers on Direqt can leverage Direqts In-Chat Advertising Platform to monetize their chatbot audience with relevant, privacy-first advertising served natively in-chat.

: Publishers on Direqt can leverage Direqts In-Chat Advertising Platform to monetize their chatbot audience with relevant, privacy-first advertising served natively in-chat. First-Party Data : Publishers have exclusive access to the data collected and shared within the chatbot.

: Publishers have exclusive access to the data collected and shared within the chatbot. Multiple Vendors: Direqts platform is adaptable and utilizes multiple leading LLMs, so publishers are never locked into a single model provider. Publishers can configure their conversation engine of choice in the Direqt platform.

Direqts platform is adaptable and utilizes multiple leading LLMs, so publishers are never locked into a single model provider. Publishers can configure their conversation engine of choice in the Direqt platform. User Experience/Low Cost: Direqt allows publishers to build a chatbot in minutes at low cost.

FinSMEs

25/10/2023
Lecole AI, a Paris, France-based creator of machine teaching technology that removes the engineering complexity around systems for computer vision, raised USD3M in Seed funding.

The round was led by Sofinnova Partners with participation from Preston-Werner Ventures, the fund started by co-founder and former CEO of GitHub, Nicolas Pinto, head of Deep Learning at Apple, and Clement Delangue, Co-Founder and CEO at Hugging Face.

The company intends to use the funds to develop its proprietary technology, which will be rolled out to medical professionals and researchers, enabling them to create bespoke AI systems to assist in their area of expertise. In addition, the financing will accelerate the expansion of the team, accelerate product development and structure business efforts.

Co-founded by CEO Jonathan Alexander Brown, CTO Kim Nilsson, and President Louis-Alexandre Etezad-Heydari, lecole AI provides EO, a platform that empowers individuals to leverages AI to initially assist medical professionals and acclerate life sciences through computer vision. The company has developed a user-friendly interface  a UI on AI. Built on its advanced AI infrastructure, this intuitive and robust platform allows experts to teach machines, thereby accelerating the experts work.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Likeminded, a Berlin, Germany-based provider of a B2B digital mental health solution, raised additional 1.5M in Seed funding.

The round, which brought the total amount to 7.4M, saw participation from IBB Ventures and family office N & V Capital.

The company intends to use the funds to expand operations and its business reach.

Likeminded is a provider of a personalized B2B mental health solution. In 2020, the company was born from the idea of offering access to professional mental health support to as many people as possible with a digital solution. Initially launched as a B2C company, Likeminded reached 7 figures in revenue within 12 months with its B2B approach. In September 2023, the company acquired Berlin-based startup whylab to consolidate in the mental health market.

Clients include Jack Wolfskin, Oliver Wyman and Hamburger Energiewerke.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Omnidian, a Seattle, WA-based solar asset management company, closed a $25m funding round.

Backers included existing investors Activate Capital, WIND Ventures, Avista Development, Inc., Evergy Ventures, National Grid Partners, Congruent Ventures, and Blue Bear Capital, and new investor HSBC Asset Management.

The company intends to use the funds to further technical innovation to give clients improved transparency into portfolio performance, job site status, and active remediations.

Led by Mark Liffmann, CEO, Omnidian aims to protect and accelerate investments in clean energy by focusing on end-to-end asset management for both commercial and residential installers and developers nationwide. Its network encompasses over 200 solar system experts and advocates across 34 states, and an extensive field service network covering 93% of all nationwide ZIP codes. The company also has an international presence in Australia since 2022.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Triveni Bio, a Waltham, MA-based biotech company providing a genetics-informed precision medicine approach for I&I disorders, raised $92M in Series A funding.

The round was led by Atlas Venture and Cormorant Asset Management, with participation from OrbiMed, the private equity business of Viking Global Investors, Invus, Polaris Partners, Alexandria Venture Investments, and other investors.

The company intends to use the funds to support the advancement of TRIV-509 from preclinical development to a Phase 2a clinical trial and fuel a pipeline of novel antibodies with two additional development candidate nominations expected in 2024.

Led by CEO Vishal Patel, and Chief Scientific Officer Jennifer Dovey, Ph.D., Triveni Bio is a biotech company providing a genetics-informed precision medicine approach to develop functional antibodies for the treatment of I&I disorders. Its lead antibody program (TRIV-509) targets kallikreins 5 and 7 (KLK5/7), promising targets for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and other I&I indications.

Triveni Bio is the result of a merger between Amagma Therapeutics, which was founded by Tillman Gerngross, Ph.D. and Leonard Zon, M.D. with funding from Polaris; and Modify Therapeutics, which was founded and seeded by Atlas.

FinSMEs

26/10/2023
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, Tantoo Cardinal, John Lithgow, Brendan Fraser

Director: Martin Scorsese

The maverick filmmaker of Hollywood, Martin Scorsese has delivered several memorable blockbusters in his illustrious career of almost six decades. With his latest outing, Killers of the Flower Moon, he reunited with Leonardo DiCaprio (sixth collaboration) and Robert De Niro (tenth collaboration).

Based on the monumental book of the same name by David Grann, Killers of the Flower Moon garnered rave reviews in prestigious film festivals but does it live up to the expectations of the cinegoers? Lets find out

Talking about the plot, Ernest Burkhart (Leonardo DiCaprio) moves to an oil-rich nation named Osage in the 1920s, where he is looking for livelihood after the war, however little does he know whats waiting for him.

Narrating the little-known tragic story of Native American history, the master filmmaker makes us move with the underlying complexities of human emotions including greed and deception, which makes it a daunting experience. Despite a runtime of 3 hours and 26 minutes, the screenplay is watertight as no time is wasted on unnecessary things, in fact, many crucial elements are added beautifully by Scorsese to make this narrative intricate.

Special mention to the climax, which is proof of Martin Scorseses cinematic genius. It is a big surprise for any movie lover.

Talking about the performances, Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro easily gave their career-best acts and ruled the screen as Burkhart and William Hale respectively. However, it is Lily Gladstones Mollie Brown Burkhart, who stole the show and gave a path-breaking performance. The character of Ernest is DiCaprios most layered character till date and he has definitely left no stone unturned to make it a memorable act among his fans and audiences.

Well, honestly, Killers of the Flower Moon is a strong contender to win in all the big categories of Director, Actor and supporting roles at the prestigious Oscars, 2024.

Rating: 4 (out of 5 stars)

Read all the Latest News, Trending News, Cricket News, Bollywood News,

India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Filmmaker Dharmesh Darshan is the son of Mahesh Bhatts real sister. Earlier, the directors uncle Mahesh Bhatt claimed that he was the illegitimate child of Nanabhai Bhatt.

However, recently, in an interview, the Dhadkan director refuted these claims saying that Bhatt should have been more responsible and avoided this comment as it could have worsened his parents mental health. Mahesh Bhatt, his brother Mukesh, and Sheila were born to Nanabhai Bhatt and Shirin Mohammed Ali.

During an interview with Lehren Retro, Darshan was asked about his uncles claims made on his mother. Responding to the same, he said, Its rubbish theres very little truth to it. Every truth can be distorted. Mahesh mama is my saga mama (real uncle), and my mother was obsessed with him. In 1939, my grandmother and my grandfather got married. The Hindu Marriage Act came in 1959, and by then my mother also was married. I didnt even know my grandmothers name was Shirin until Mahesh mama said it was an issue.

Clearing the air around the rumours that his grandfather, Nanabhai Bhatt, had another family and used to live somewhere else, Dharmesh revealed, I had an extraordinary other grandmother. They were both legitimate, because I saw both of them My grandmother had six children and the other grandmother had three children, adding that his grandmother, Shirin followed Gujarati-Hindu traditions. He further added that he used to call Shirin her mumma, not amma, and that his grandfather was a great man who was flogged in public without any reason.

The Aap Ki Khatir director went on to say that Bhatt should have given another thought before making such irresponsible comments and his statements could have triggered his parents illness. He further said that he and Mahesh Bhatt had a debate over the same but in a cultured way.

Darshan also spoke about the medical condition of his parents and said, My mother got Parkinsons because she got so worked up and didnt know what to do. It triggered (her illness). And my father got Alzheimers.

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 American state of Maine is in the midst of a massive manhunt for an armed gunman after two mass shootings left at least 22 people dead and dozens injured.

The shootings took place in a bowling alley and a restaurant in Lewiston, the second largest city in the state. The Lewiston Police has identified Robert Card as a person of interest in the matter and has warned on Facebook that he should be considered armed and dangerous. While the authorities havent been able to provide a motive for the shooting, it has been reported that 40-year-old Card, a retired military officer, had complained of mental health issues including hearing voices in the past.

Lewiston mayor Carl Sheline said he is heartbroken for our city and our people after the incident. He called on residents to follow all recommended guidelines and stay home, adding that the city is currently under a shelter-in-place order.

It is critical to prioritise your safety and the safety of those around you, Sheline said.

The incident, though bloody and horrific, is one of the several hundred mass shootings that have already taken place this year, such as the shootings in California and Louisiana.

In fact, data reveals that 120 Americans die at the end of a gun, including suicides and homicides, an average of 43,375 per year.

We take a closer look at US gun obsession and how mass shootings have skyrocketed this year, claiming countless lives.

US gun obsession

America has a problem of mass shootings. In fact, the country has suffered 565 mass shootings until now and is expected to eclipse the 2021 record of 689 incidents, as per data collated by Gun Violence Archive, a non-profit that catalogues every incident of gun violence in the US.

2023 Worst Mass Shooting unfolding tonight in Lewiston Maine current numbers show 16 killed, 25 or more injured. This is the 565th Mass Shooting this year, the 31st Mass Murder. GVA will constantly update information as it is verified. https://t.co/7Z2aC7tZ5p  The Gun Violence Archive (@GunDeaths) October 26, 2023

For the uninitiated, a mass shooting, according to Gun Violence Archive, a shooting in which four or more people were shot or killed, not including the shooter. This makes its numbers higher than some other sources with varying definitions.

According to Gun Violence Archive, the country has only been seeing an uptick in mass shootings in the past few years. In 2018, the US recorded 355 mass shootings; this was followed by 414 incidents in 2019.

In 2020, US witnessed 610 mass shootings, which was followed by a whopping 689 incidents in 2021 and 645 in 2022.

The Associated Press that maintains a database of gun violence in the country notes that as of date, 188 people have been gunned down.

Additionally, the Gun Violence Archives data reveals that until 2 October, America had seen a whopping 14,401 gun deaths  including suicides and homicides  another 28,348 gun injuries.

Also read: More mass shootings than days of the year: The grim reality of gun violence in the US

Worst mass shootings this year

Of the 565 mass shootings in the US, some stand out more than the others. One of the biggest and deadliest mass shootings this year took place in Monterey Park, California in January. Twelve people died while another nine were injured when Huu Can Tran, aged 72, opened fire during a Chinese New Year celebration at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio in Monterey Park. Tran was found dead in his vehicle after he fled the scene of an attempted second shooting.

Two days after the Monterey Park tragedy, California witnessed another mass shooting on 23 January when a 67-year-old killed four people and injured another three in Half Moon Bay.

In March, a 28-year-old killed three children and three adults in a shooting at a small Christian elementary school before being killed by police. The shooter was a former student there.

The very next month, Connor Sturgeon, a 25-year-old bank employee, armed with a rifle opened fire at his workplace, killing five people  including a close friend of Kentuckys governor  while livestreaming the attack on Instagram.

On 6 May, the US was once again left shell-shocked when a 33-year-old man stepped out of a vehicle and gunned down people outside a mall in Dallas, Texas. The gunman had posted, earlier, about his white supremacist and misogynistic views. A police officer fatally shot him within four minutes.

In the month of July, the US saw three horrific shooting incidents  two were just a day apart from one another  in Philadelphia, Louisiana and Georgia.

US and gun legislation

But despite the many fatalities, gun ownership continues to be a huge problem for society. Last June, US president Joe Biden signed into law a gun safety package passed by Congress. It was the first gun reform bill from Congress in decades.

Also read: Even as US mass shootings continue, 2024 Republican hopefuls back NRA: Why is the gun lobby so powerful?

However, a large chunk of people still argue in favour of owing and possessing arms. Many states have sought to expand gun ownership in recent years. At least 27 states have now passed laws allowing residents to carry a handgun without a permit and allow school staff and teachers to carry guns on campus.

Duke University professor Jeffrey Swanson, who examines policies to reduce gun violence, was quoted as telling Vox: Other countries look at this problem and say, People walking around in the community with handguns is just way too dangerous, so were going to broadly limit legal access to that and make exceptions on the margins for people who might have a good reason to have a gun, Swanson said. Here we do just the opposite: We say that, because of the way that the Supreme Court interpreted the Second Amendment, everybody has the right to a gun for personal protection, and then we tried to make exceptions for really dangerous people, but we cant figure out who they are.

With inputs from agencies
On Thursday, Armenian prime minister Nikol Pashinyan said he hoped to sign a peace agreement with Azerbaijan soon.

The development comes two months after Azerbaijan recaptured the Nagorno-Karabakh region in a swift offensive.

We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months, Pashinyan added.

On Wednesday, Republican presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy condemned Azerbaijan over its actions in Nagorno-Karabakh.

Nagorno-Karabakh been ethnically and religiously Armenian Christian for a long time, and has largely been viewed as an autonomous region governed separately, Ramaswamy said.

But what is Nagorno-Karabakh? And what do we know about Armenias actions in the region?

Lets take a closer look

What happened in Nagorno-Karabakh?

Nagorno-Karabakh, known to Armenians as Artsakh, is internationally recognised as Azerbaijani territory.

It became a breakaway state under the control of ethnic Armenian forces in 1994 following a six-year conflict.

The ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian state, turned about 1 million of its Azerbaijani residents into refugees.

After a six-week war in 2020, Azerbaijan took back parts of the region in the South Caucasus Mountains  along with surrounding territory that Armenian forces had captured earlier.

Then, last month, Azerbaijan launched an offensive that forced separatists to relinquish the rest of the region and brought the entire ethnic Armenian enclave back under its control.

The 24-hour campaign which began on 19 September witnessed Azerbaijani army routing the regions undermanned and outgunned Armenian forces, forcing them to capitulate.

Though Azerbaijan had vowed to respect the rights of the territorys Armenian community, over 100,000 ethnic Armenians  more than 80 per cent of the regions residents  have since fled the region and sparked a refugee crisis.

The ethnic Armenians fear reprisals or losing the freedom to practice their religion and customs.

Armenia has now accused Azerbaijan of ethnic cleansing.

Ethnic Armenians had faced months of blockade of the territory by Azerbaijans military.

As per the Washington Post, ethnic Armenians witnessed the shelves of their grocery stores grow bare and hospitals go without medical supplies during the blockade.

French-Armenian journalist Astrig Agopian told NBC News, Many of them are from villages which were taken by the Azerbaijani army, so they really lost their homes already.

There is really this feeling that this time is different. Its another war, but its a war that is definitely lost this time, Agopian reporting from the Armenian border added.

Narine Shakaryan, a grandmother of four, told Reuters, 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.

My husband died back then, he was 30 in 1994. Thats the cursed life that we live.

I gave my whole life to my homeland, one man told BBC. It would be better if they killed me than this.

A woman, Veronica, added this was the second time she had become a refugee  after the 2020 conflict.

Our people do not want to live as part of Azerbaijan. Ninety-nine point nine percent prefer to leave our historic lands, David Babayan, an adviser to Samvel Shahramanyan, the president of the self-styled Republic of Artsakh, told Reuters.

The fate of our poor people will go down in history as a disgrace and a shame for the Armenian people and for the whole civilized world.

Those responsible for our fate will one day have to answer before God for their sins.

Pashinyan on Sunday said, If proper conditions are not created for the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh to live in their homes and there are no effective protection mechanisms against ethnic cleansing, the likelihood is rising that the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh will see exile from their homeland as the only way to save their lives and identity.

But Azerbaijan president Ilham Aliyevs office has claimed that the country has presented a plan for the reintegration of ethnic Armenians in the region, noting that the equality of rights and freedoms, including security, is guaranteed to everyone regardless of their ethnic, religious or linguistic affiliation.

Aliyev blamed the Armenians exodus from the region on separatist authorities that encouraged them to leave.

The Azerbaijani leader said that Azerbaijani authorities had provided humanitarian assistance to the Armenian residents of Karabakh and the process of their registration had started.

What do experts say?

A piece in CFR stated that it has been reported that more than 400 ethnic Armenians including civilians were killed in clashes with the Azerbaijan army.

The piece noted that the Untied Nations terms ethnic cleansing as a purposeful policy designed by one ethnic or religious group to remove by violent and terror-inspiring means the civilian population of another ethnic or religious group from certain geographic areas.

It added that the Azerbaijans vow to protect ethnic Armenians wont give the few left in the region much confidence.

Luis Moreno Ocampo, an ex-prosecutor at the International Criminal Court, has accused Azerbaijan of imposing genocide conditions on Nagorno-Karabakh.

Ocampo in a Washington Post op-ed wrote that Azerbaijans ambitions extend beyond the region.

Azerbaijan is an ally with the West against Iran; it provides energy to Europe and it spends millions on sophisticated Israeli weapons, he wrote. But such exigencies must not get in the way of the worlds responsibility to stop what is happening before its very eyes: the Armenian genocide of 2023.

A piece in The Conversation noted, It was always highly unlikely that any Armenians would choose to stay under Azeri control of Nagorno-Karabakh. The regime of President Ilham Aliyev does not tolerate criticism or plurality of voice among its own citizens.

The article, noting how the think-tank Freedom House designated Azerbaijan a consolidated authoritarian regime, stated that Bakus vow to protect the rights and safety of ethnic Armenians rings hollow.

For decades, the Aliyev regime has promoted ethnic hatred of Armenians. Azerbaijan has actively worked for the eradication and appropriation of its Armenian religious and cultural heritage. This was referred to in a recent report as the worst cultural genocide of the 21st Century.

The piece also noted that the crimes committed by Azerbaijans troops during the 2020 conflict were extremely well documented.

The so-called Military Trophies Park in the Azeri capital of Baku, built as a memorial of the war, is filled with grotesque mannequins representing Armenians.

Thomas de Waal, a senior fellow with the London-based Carnegie Europe think-tank told NBC News, 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.

So in that sense, Azerbaijan has won.

Skepticism over Western intervention

Pashinyan said Armenia was ready to open, reopen, rebuild, build all regional communications if its sovereignty over the area is not questioned.

Baku has vowed to ensure the rights of Karabakhs Armenians are protected.

It has denied having any territorial claims to Armenia, saying it could set up a land link with Nakhichevan via Iran instead of Armenia.

Pashinyan also said Thursday that he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats in the near future.

Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan.

With the traditional regional power broker Russia bogged down in its Ukraine war, the European Union and United States have taken a lead role in brokering an Armenian-Azerbaijani peace treaty.

But the talks have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.

Aliyev has recently expressed scepticism about Western mediation efforts.

Citing Frances biased position, he refused to attend another round of peace talks with Pashinyan in Spain earlier in October.

They had been due to take place under the mediation of the EU chief Charles Michel, French president Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

Aliyev said peace talks with Yerevan could be held in Georgia if Yerevan agrees, but Pashinyan  who is keen on Western mediation  rejected the idea.

On Monday, Iran and Russia denounced Western interference in tensions between Yerevan and Baku at a foreign ministers meeting in Tehran that also included top diplomats from Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.

Armenians stunned, say historic blow

While the separatist ethnic Armenian government in Nagorno-Karabakh then announced that it was dissolving and that the unrecognized republic will cease to exist by years end  a seeming death knell for its 30-year de-facto independence  but Azerbaijani authorities are already in charge of the region.

The swift fall of the Armenian-majority enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh to Azerbaijani troops and exodus of much of its population has stunned the large Armenian diaspora around the world.

Traumatized by genocide a century ago, they now fear the erasure of what they consider a central and beloved part of their historic homeland.

Many in Armenia and the diaspora fear a centuries-long community in the territory they call Artsakh will disappear in what they call a new wave of ethnic cleansing.

They accuse European countries, Russia and the United States  and the government of Armenia itself  of failing to protect ethnic Armenians during months of blockade of the territory by Azerbaijans military.

Armenians say the loss is a historic blow.

Outside the modern country of Armenia itself, the mountainous land was one of the only surviving parts of a heartland that centuries ago stretched across what is now eastern Turkey, into the Caucasus region and western Iran.

Many in the diaspora had pinned dreams on it gaining independence or being joined to Armenia.

Nagorno-Karabakh was a page of hope in Armenian history, Narod Seroujian, a Lebanese-Armenian university instructor in Beirut, said Thursday.

It showed us that there is hope to gain back a land that is rightfully ours  For the diaspora, Nagorno-Karabakh was already part of Armenia.

Ethnic Armenians have communities around Europe and West Asia and in the United States.

Lebanon is home to one of the largest, with an estimated 120,000 of Armenian origin, four per cent of the population.

Most are descendants of those who fled the 1915 campaign by Ottoman Turks in which some 1.5 million Armenians died in massacres, deportations and forced marches.

The atrocities, which emptied many ethnic Armenian areas in eastern Turkey, are widely viewed by historians as genocide.

Turkey rejects the description of genocide, saying the toll has been inflated and that those killed were victims of civil war and unrest during World War I.

In Bourj Hammoud, the main Armenian district in the capital Beirut, memories are still raw, with anti-Turkey graffiti common on the walls. The red-blue-and-orange Armenian flag flies from many buildings.

This is the last migration for Armenians, said Harout Bshidikian, 55, sitting in front of an Armenian flag in a Bourj Hamoud cafe. There is no other place left for us to migrate from.

Azerbaijan says it is reuniting its territory, pointing out that even Armenias prime minister recognized that Nagorno-Karabakh is part of Azerbaijan.

Though its population has been predominantly ethnic Armenian Christians, Turkish Muslim Azeris also have communities and cultural ties to the territory as well, particularly the city of Shusha, famed as a cradle of Azeri poetry.

Wall said Nagorno-Karabakh had become a kind of new cause for an Armenian diaspora whose forebearers had suffered the genocide.

It was a kind of new Armenian state, new Armenian land being born, which they projected lots of hopes on. Very unrealistic hopes, I would say, he said, adding that it encouraged Karabakh Armenians to hold out against Azerbaijan despite the lack of international recognition for their separatist government.

Armenians see the territory as a cradle of their culture, with monasteries dating back more than a millennium.

Artsakh or Nagorno-Karabakh has been a land for Armenians for hundreds of years, said Lebanese legislator Hagop Pakradounian, head of Lebanons largest Armenian group, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation. The people of Artsakh are being subjected to a new genocide, the first genocide in the 21st Century.

The fall of Nagorno-Karabakh is not just a reminder of the genocide, its reliving it, said Diran Guiliguian, an Armenian activist who is based in Madrid but holds Armenian, Lebanese and French citizenship.

He said his grandmother used to tell him stories of how she fled in 1915. The genocide is actually not a thing of the past. Its not a thing that is a century old. Its actually still the case, he said.

Seroujian, the instructor in Beirut, said her great-grandparents were genocide survivors, and that stories of the atrocities and dispersal were talked about at home, school and in the community as she grew up, as was the cause of Nagorno-Karabakh.

She visited the territory several times, most recently in 2017. Weve grown with these ideas, whether they were romantic or not, of the country. Weve grown to love it even when we didnt see it, she said. I never thought about it as something separate from Armenia the country.

In the United States, the Armenian community in the Los Angeles area  one of the worlds largest  has staged several protests trying to draw attention to the situation. On Sept. 19, they used a trailer truck to block a major freeway for several hours, causing major traffic jams.

Kim Kardashian, perhaps the most well-known Armenian-American today, went on social media to urge President Joe Biden to Stop Another Armenian Genocide.

Several groups in the diaspora are collecting money for Karabakh Armenians fleeing their home. But Seroujian said many feel helpless.

There are moments where personally, the family, or among friends we just feel hopeless, she said. And when we talk to each other we sort of lose our minds.

With inputs from agencies
Its Day 20 of the Israel-Hamas war. The death toll has crossed over 7,000. And the crisis continues to unfold in the Gaza Strip, with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)  the main UN agency working there  saying they would have to cease all aid operations there owing to the shortage of fuel.

As this humanitarian catastrophe unfolds, Israel is locked in a new spat with the United Nations  with Jerusalem demanding that Secretary General Antonio Guterres resign and denying visas to UN representatives.

Heres a closer look at what has led to this furious diplomatic spat in which Israel has said its time to teach them a lesson.

The comment that started it all

On Tuesday (24 October), at a Security Council meeting, officials were discussing the humanitarian losses in Gaza when Secretary General Antonio Guterres called for an immediate ceasefire to end the epic suffering in the Gaza Strip.

Guterres said the bombardment and blockade of Gaza amounted to the collective punishment of the Palestinian people and violated international law. To ease epic suffering, make the delivery of aid easier and safer and facilitate the release of hostages. I reiterate my appeal for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire, he said.

In his address, he condemned the Hamas attack in Israel on 7 October that started the war and demanded that all hostages taken that day be released.

But he added that the attack on Israel had not happened in a vacuum and noted that Palestinians had suffered more than five decades of occupation and oppression by Israel.

The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation, he said. They have seen their land steadily devoured by settlements and plagued by violence; their economy stifled; their people displaced and their homes demolished. Their hopes for a political solution to their plight have been vanishing.

Guterres told the Council: The grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

Guterres also said he was deeply concerned about the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza.

He expressed concern at Israels continuous bombardment of Gaza, as well as the level of civilian casualties and wholesale destruction of neighbourhoods.

Without naming Hamas, he stressed that protecting civilians can never mean using them as human shields.

And without naming Israel, he said: Protecting civilians does not mean ordering more than one million people to evacuate to the south, where there is no shelter, no food, no water, no medicine and no fuel, and then continuing to bomb the south itself.

Israel erupts in anger

However, his comments werent received well by Israel, who erupted in anger.

Israels envoy to the UN, Gilad Erdan, called on Guterres to resign immediately, accusing him of being detached from reality. His comments constitute a justification for terrorism and murder. Its sad that a person with such views is the head of an organisation that arose after the Holocaust.

Israels foreign minister, Eli Cohen, slammed the UN secretary-general, accusing him of living in an unreal world.

He asked the UN chief, In what world do you live?

These kids witnessed horror that cannot be described Mr. Secretary General: In what world do you live? Definitely this is not our world, Israeli FM @elicoh1 at the UN Security Council pic.twitter.com/oUKUTp7wdO  Israel Foreign Ministry (@IsraelMFA) October 25, 2023

Cohen added that the killing of the 1,400 people, including women and children, by Hamas constituted a massacre that would go down in history as more brutal than those committed by the Islamic State (IS) group.

He further declared Hamas as the new Nazis and said: Just as the civilised world united to defeat the Nazis, just as the civilised world united to defeat (IS), the civilised world has to stand united behind Israel to defeat Hamas.

Responding to the UNs call for a ceasefire, he stated, Tell me, what is a proportionate response for killing of babies, for rape [of] women and burn them, for beheading a child? How can you agree to a ceasefire with someone who swore to kill and destroy your own existence?

The Israeli minister later on X added that he would not meet the UN secretary general again and that there was no place for a balanced approach in this issue.

Erdan on Wednesday told Israel Radio that it was time to teach the UN a lesson and that they would deny visas to all UN representatives. Due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives. We have already refused a visa for the undersecretary general for humanitarian affairs, Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson.

The spat between the UN and Israel is a reflection of a long-held belief by many in the war-riven country that the international body has an anti-Israel stance.

Countries speak up

Israels condemnation of the UN secretary general and the consequent spat drew in other countries as well. The British government sided with Israel, with Home Office minister Robert Jenrick asking that Guterres retract his comments if they were intended to partly blame Israel for the escalating crisis.

In an interview to Sky News, he said, If he is referring to what has happened over the course of the last two weeks we dont believe that Israel has broken international law. There is a clear right in international law for a nation to defend itself and that is what Israel is doing.

He told LBC Radio later that Guterres comments were wrong. His comments implied that there was a justification for what happened in Israel two weeks ago. There isnt, there cant be, this is a murderous, barbaric terrorist attack on innocent civilians in a democratic country. No-one should even attempt to justify that.

Catch up on our Israel-Hamas coverage

Were Hamas militants high on Captagon during Israel attack?

Gaza is scarred by poverty. But Hamas leaders live a life of luxury in Qatar

Why is Israel attacking south Gaza after ordering civilians to go there?

Israel-Hamas war: Why the UN may stop all aid operations in Gaza

Where is Yair Netanyahu? Why are some in Israel angry with Benjamin Netanyahu's son?

On the other hand, Guterres received support from Portugal and Germany. Portugals foreign minister Joao Gomes Cravinho told Portuguese newswire Lusa, We fully understand and follow the position of Antonio Guterres, who was unequivocal when he condemned Hamas terrorism. There is no way to say that Antonio Guterres is in any way excusing terrorism.

The Portuguese foreign minister also dismissed Israels calls for Guterres  who is Portuguese  to resign.

Germany, too, expressed support for the UN chief, with a spokesperson for the government in Berlin saying on Wednesday it had confidence in Guterres.

UNs Guterres expresses hurt

The UN secretary general on Wednesday expressed his sadness at his comments being misrepresented.

He said I am shocked by the misrepresentations by some of my statement as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas. This is false. It was the opposite.

I believe it was necessary to set the record straight, especially out of respect to the victims and to their families, he added.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war has also led to tensions within the UN, with the Security Council failing to pass a resolution on it.

Russia and China have vetoed US resolution that condemned the 7 October attacks, calling for the release of hostages and for humanitarian aid for Gaza. The resolution would have also supported Israels right to defend itself.

A second, failed resolution proposed by Russia, introduced at the last minute, also failed when it didnt get the nine votes needed.

With inputs from agencies
The Israel-Hamas war continues to cause death and destruction  its the 20th day today. The genesis of this war is the audacious and daring attack by Hamas militants on 7 October; under the cover of rocket launches, militants entered Israel territory, killing at least 1,400 people and taking over 200 others as hostage.

But the question as to why the Palestinian militant group chose to attack Israel then remains unknown. Until now.

United States president Joe Biden, who has reiterated support for the country at war, has a probable reason as to why Hamas chose 7 October to attack Israel. Speaking to reporters at a joint news conference with the visiting Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese, the US president said that the recent announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region with a network of rail, road and ports was one of the causes for the Hamas attack.

Im convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We cant leave that work behind, Biden was quoted as saying.

We take a closer look at what exactly is this corridor and why the war could endanger the progress made on this infrastructural project.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), explained

The IMEEC  a major rail and shipping corridor connecting India with West Asia and Europe  was announced on 9 September on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had then called the IMEEC a beacon of cooperation, innovation, and shared progress.

Signatories to this multi-modal transport corridor are the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, the United States, Germany, France, and the European Union (EU).

This project, being dubbed the modern day Spice Route, aims to connect India to the West Asia region and eventually Europe through a rail line and ports. As per plans, it would connect Indias west coast with the UAE by sea and a rail route crossing the Arabian Peninsula, with the Israeli port of Haifa as the endpoint. From Haifa goods are to be shipped to Piraeus in Greece, from which they would reach other European destinations by railway, road, or sea. Plans for the corridor also include pipelines for hydrogen produced in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, high-powered IT connections, and energy grids.

At the launch, US president Joe Biden called it a really big deal. He said it would link across two continents and lead to a more stable, more prosperous and integrated Middle East.

The European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen also said that the economic corridor was much more than just a railway or a cable. It is a green and digital bridge across continents and civilisations, AFP quoted her as saying.

Chiming in, Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud had added, We forward to the integration of the initiative and the economic corridor project I would like to thank those who worked with us to reach this founding step to establish this important economic corridor.

Israel-Hamas war: Read our related coverage here

Israel-Palestine conflict: Which nations have been drawn in?

Why is Erdogan backing Hamas against Israel? Whats Turkeys role in conflict?

Why risk of Hamas-Israel war spillover is more real than ever

What the Hamas war means for Israels economy and Benjamin Netanyahu

Why Israel is locked in a big spat with UN chief

Gaza is scarred by poverty. But Hamas leaders live a life of luxury in Qatar

Where is Yair Netanyahu? Why are some in Israel angry with Benjamin Netanyahus son?

Why the corridor was hailed as a big deal

The rail and shipping corridor will not just advance economic growth but it has wider geopolitical implications.

The project would allow the US to forge a wider diplomatic deal in the West Asia region which would entail Saudi Arabia officially recognise Israel, as per Reuters.

The deal will benefit low and middle-income countries in the region, and enable a critical role for the Middle East in global commerce, Jon Finer, the US deputy national security adviser said earlier. For the US, he said, the deal helps turn the temperature down across the region and address a conflict where we see it, reported Reuters.

According to AFP, the deal could include developing railway and port facilities across the West Asian region, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Israel, which may accelerate trade between India and Europe by up to 40 per cent.

Most importantly, the project could be a counter to Chinas Belt and Road  a vast infrastructure programme that has spread Beijings investments and clout across Europe, Africa, Asia and Latin America.

The Israel-Hamas war and the IMEEC

However, now with the war breaking out between Israel and Hamas, many experts believe that the IMEEC, which would have facilitated better ties between Saudi Arabia and Israel, wont get off the ground.

Kristian Coates Ulrichsen, a Middle East fellow of the Baker Institute at Rice University in Houston, told South China Morning Post: It is likely that the practical implementation of the corridor will be paused due both to the conflict and instability in the Israeli leg, and to the frictions in the Saudi- and Emirati-Israel components too.

Israels fierce bombardment of the Gaza Strip and the choking of the enclave have angered many Arab nations. In fact, Riyadh has led the pan-Arab crescendo of criticism, blaming Israel for the eruption of the Gaza conflict by saying the war is the consequence of its refusal to discuss Palestinian statehood.

The UAE and Bahrain, which have normalised ties with Israel in recent times, have also condemned the actions of the Israeli military inside the Gaza Strip.

An SCMP report further states that the Jordanian section of the corridor is even more vulnerable to public opinion because most of the kingdoms population is ethnically Palestinian, including Queen Rania.

Moreover, the attack on 7 October by Hamas has also led to mass anger in Israel, leaving no space for greater economic and political integration with Arab nations supportive of the Palestinian cause.

In fact, following the war, Biden in the past few weeks has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure theres real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well.

With inputs from agencies
The cash-for-query controversy involving Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra continues to unravel. The complaint by BJPs Nishikant Dubey will be taken up by the Lok Sabha ethics committee on Thursday.

Earlier in the month, Dubey wrote a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla accusing Moitra of accepting bribes to ask questions in Parliament, which targeted the Adani Group. The allegations are based on information provided by lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai. The accusations were later confirmed by Darshan Hiranandani, a real estate developer, who said in a sworn affidavit that the Trinamool leader had given him her Parliament login and password so that he could post questions on her behalf.

Now on Thursday noon, the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee holds its first meeting on the matter. Dubey and Dehadrai will appear before it.

We take a look at what is the committee and what can we expect next in the case.

What is the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee?

The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee oversees the moral and ethical conduct of parliamentarians. It is a permanent member of the Lower House and has a term of one year. It last met on 27 July 2021.

The idea of an ethics committee for the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha was first proposed in 1996 at a presiding officers conference held in Delhi. The panel for the Upper House was constituted by the then Vice President and Rajya Sabha chairman on 4 March 1997. It was inaugurated two months later in May to oversee the moral and ethical conduct of MPs and look into cases of misconduct referred to it, according to a report in The Indian Express.

However, the Lok Sabha panel came into force much later. After a group of Committee of Privileges of the Lok Sabha visited the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia to study practices linked to the conduct of legislators in 1997, it drafted a report on the formation of an ethics committee. But the Lok Sabha was dissolved before the report could be tabled.

The report was tabled in the 12th Lok Sabha but the Lower House was dissolved again before the Committee of Privileges could take a view on it. The panel recommended the formation of an ethics committee during the 13th Lok Sabha, an ad-hoc Ethics Committee was constituted in 2000 and it became a permanent member of the House in 2015, reports The Indian Express.

How does the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee function?

Any person or legislator can make a complaint relating to the unethical conduct of a Lok Sabha MP. If the complainant is not a member of the House, it shall be forwarded to the committee by an MP, according to the Lok Sabha website.

The complaint must be addressed to the Speaker, who may refer it to the committee for examination, investigation and report. The complainant must declare the identity and submit supporting evidence, documentary or otherwise to substantiate the allegations.

A complaint by a non-member filed through a Lok Sabha MP should have an affidavit. Every complainant should ensure that their complaint is not false, frivolous or vexatious and is made in good faith.

The Ethics Committee does not entertain complaints on sub-judice matters or based on media reports. It enquires before examining a complaint and after evaluating it makes recommendations.

The report of the committee is presented to the Speaker who asks the House if it should be taken up for consideration. There is reportedly a provision to discuss the report for 30 minutes.

The ethics committee has taken up several complaints since its constitution but most of them have been light offences. The more serious matters are taken up by the Privileges Committee, which safeguards the freedom, authority, and dignity of Parliament.

Who is on the current Ethics Committee?

The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee is headed by BJPs Vinod Kumar Sonkar. The other members are BJPs Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Dr Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Subhash Bhamre; Congresss V Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, Balashowry Vallabbhaneni, and Preneet Kaur; Shiv Senas Hemant Godse; Janata Dal (United )s Giridhari Yadav; Communist Party of India (Marxist)s PR Natarajan and Bahujan Samaj Partys Danish Ali.

What happens next in the Mahua Moitra case?

In an article in The Indian Express, former Lok Sabha secretary general PDT Achary wrote, The Committee will call the persons who are involved, the stakeholders  the person who made the complaint, the people who made statements, filed affidavits  and take their evidence. After that, the Committee will certainly call the Member against whom the complaint has been made. She has the right to cross-examine the complainant. She can also seek the permission of the Speaker to appear through an advocate, who can cross-examine the other side.

What has Moitra said?

The Trinamool MP had last Friday that she was ready to answer the questions of the panel when the Committee called her.

In a post on social media platform X, Mahua Moitra said, I welcome answering questions to the CBI & Ethics Committee (which has an absolute majority of BJP members) if and when they call me. I have neither time nor interest to feed an Adani-directed media circus trial or answer BJP trolls

With inputs from agencies
Rajasthan goes to polls in a month from now. The political power in the desert state has been shifting between the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) since the Assembly elections in 1993. As the Grand Old Party tries to hold onto power, the saffron camp will aim to benefit from this tradition of ousting the incumbent.

About 5.25 crore electors will cast ballots for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly on 25 November, with the counting of votes on 3 December. Both the main political parties in the state have announced multiple lists for the upcoming elections, with the Congress naming 77 candidates and the BJP nominating 124 faces so far.

Who are the key players in the Rajasthan Assembly elections 2023? Which issues are likely to dominate voters choices? Lets take a closer look.

Key players and seats in Rajasthan polls

The Congress has fielded Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot from his sitting constituency of Sardarpura in the Jodhpur district. In the 2018 Assembly elections, he had defeated BJPs Shambhu Singh Khetasar by over 40,000 votes.

Former deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot is the Congress candidate from the Tonk seat. The BJP is yet to announce a candidate against Pilot, who had trounced the saffron partys Yoonus Khan by a margin of 54,179 votes in 2018 elections.

Congress releases the second list of 43 candidates for the upcoming Rajasthan Assembly Elections. Govind Ram Meghwal to contest from Khajuwala, Pratap Singh Khachariyawas fielded from Civil Lines, Parsadi Lal Meena from Lolsot. pic.twitter.com/WW4hZ2lwit  ANI (@ANI) October 22, 2023

The BJP, which sidelined Vasundhara Raje ahead of the polls, has given a ticket to the former chief minister from her stronghold Jhalrapatan, which she has been winning since 2003. Raje comes from the Scindia royal family, the former rulers of Gwalior  now a city in Madhya Pradesh.

Rajsamand MP and another royal Diya Kumari is contesting for the BJP from the Vidyadhar Nagar seat. The sitting Vidyadhar Nagar MLA Narpat Singh Rajvi has been shifted to Chittorgarh. There have been reports that the saffron party is trying to replace Raje with Diya Kumari, who has called the former CM her mentor, as per News18.

Rajasthan Assembly Speaker CP Joshi is Congress candidate from Nathdwara, while its state president Govind Singh Dotasra is contesting from Laxmangarh.

Vishwaraj Singh Mewar, a descendant of Rajput ruler Maharana Pratap, will challenge CP Joshi as BJPs candidate from Nathdwara.

The BJP has fielded former Union minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore from the Jhotwara constituency. So far, the saffron party has given tickets to over three-fourths of its sitting 70 MLAs, noted Indian Express.

BJPs 71-year-old Rajya Sabha MP Kirodi Lal Meena, who has regularly protested against the Gehlot government, is in the Assembly election fray from Sawai Madhopur.

Rajasthans key election issues

Rajasthan has seen a prominent rise in the turnout of women voters over the last 20 years, as per Indian Express. The BJP has been blasting the Gehlot government over crime against women, underscoring the deterioration of law and order in the state under the Congress rule in the last several months. The Rajasthan government has been on the back foot over several issues, such as atrocities against women and Dalits and alleged corruption charges.

Both the parties have been making efforts to woo the women voters ahead of polling.

The other important constituent for any political party is the young voters of Rajasthan. A little over 22 lakh youth became eligible to vote between the period of 1 January to 1 October this year, reported Indian Express. A first-time voter in Jaipurs Bani Park area told The Hindu that the youths are seeking a government that would create opportunities for their all-round development.

Question paper leaks are another hot topic that could sway voters, especially youngsters. Leaks of papers for government recruitment exams, such as the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers (REET), in recent months has put the Gehlot government in a corner. As the issue affects lakhs of unemployed youths, it is likely to influence voters preferences in the upcoming elections.

CM Gehlot has been trying to tackle perceived anti-incumbency by highlighting his governments public welfare schemes. This revolving door politics of Rajasthan could favour the BJP. A recent CVoter survey found that the desert state is likely to follow the riwaz of throwing out the incumbent, as per The Quint.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has held many key rallies in Rajasthan, has touched a range of issues, including paper leaks in the recruitment exams and the law and order situation.

The BJP and Congress are both bearing the brunt of factionalism. According to PTI, while Gehlot and Pilot have mended ties for now, their tussle has impacted Congress strength in Rajasthan.

The saffron party has tried to woo Raje by giving tickets to several of her key loyalists after sidelining the royal. As per NDTV, the BJP has now decided to utilise the popularity of Raje, who has the support of different voter bases across the state.

Farmers issues remain dominant in the north Rajasthan districts, which account for 50 Assembly constituencies and have a large presence of Jat, Muslim and Yadav communities, reported The Hindu. The region had seen huge protests against the Centres now-withdrawn three farm laws, which observers told the newspaper may impact the BJPs electoral prospects.

As per PTI, the saffron party has accused the Congress of not fulfilling its loan waiver poll promise. However, the Gehlot government has argued it has written off loans of farmers taken from cooperative banks, and now the ball lies in the Centres court.

The Congress campaign is likely to focus on the Old Pension Scheme as it did in Himachal Pradesh where it reintroduced the scheme after coming to power. The move will impact seven lakh government workers and their families in Rajasthan, noted the news agency PTI.

As per the news agency, the Congress has been demanding a national project status for the Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP), which deals with the irrigation and drinking water needs of the region. The Grand Old Party will target the BJP over the issue.

With inputs from agencies
As the war with Hamas enters Day 20, Israel is finding itself increasingly isolated. Its relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip has left more than 7,000 Palestinians dead, thousands of them children. Jerusalem is in a spat with the United Nations after its chief spoke of Palestinian suffering and oppression. The war-hit nation is trying to drum up support as it takes on Hamas. The Israeli ambassador to India Naor Gilon has said that New Delhi should declare it as a terrorist organisation.

So is Hamas a militant group or not? What is Indias stance and which are the nations that have labelled Hamas as a terror body? We take a look.

What did the Israeli envoy say?

Israeli ambassador Naor Gilon said on Wednesday that his country is in talks with New Delhi about the possibility of India designating Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

The time has come for India to proscribe Hamas as a terrorist organisation like many other nations have done, Gilon told the media on Wednesday. He said that Israel had conveyed the message to relevant Indian authorities following the brutal attack on Israel on 7 October.

The Israeli diplomat indicated that the matter was taken up earlier as well. He also thanked India for its 100 per cent support to Israel in its anti-terror operations against Hamas.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the terror attack India is a very important moral voice in the world and the important countries for us are with us, Gilon said.

India is solidly supporting us in our counter-terror operations, he added.

Why has India not declared Hamas as a terrorist organisation?

After the 7 October attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep shock and solidarity with Israel. However, he did not mention Hamas or Palestine.

The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement on the attack only days later after two expressions of solidarity from the PM. The ministry described the Hamas assault as a terror attack on 12 October but also reaffirmed Indias long-standing position, advocating negotiations towards establishing a sovereign, independent and viable state of Palestine living side-by-side at peace with Israel. It did not mention Hamas.

While India has a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. It designates a group as a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The UAPA was amended in 2019 to include the provision of designating an individual as a terrorist. As of February 2023, there were a total of 44 designated terrorist organisations under the Ist Schedule of the Act. However, this does not include Hamas.

India has been performing a balancing act in West Asia. While it has traditionally supported Palestine and has an old friendship with the Arab world, its ties with Israel are growing. PM Modi has invested in the relationship between New Delhi and Jerusalem.

The 7 October attacks have dragged Hamas into the equation. While Hamass military wing has launched attacks against Israel for years, its political wing has promoted the idea that its ultimate aim is a sovereign Palestine state.

Hamas, which has been in control of the Gaza Strip, was democratically elected in 2006 though no polls have been held in the enclave for the past 17 years.

But banning Hamas in India comes with its own set of complexities. The last major international organisation banned by India was ISIS in 2015.

While India uses UAPA to add terror groups to the list, the Act has very localised requirements for such groups to be added to its terrorism listing, which includes having activities such as operations, finances, and recruitment within Indian territories where Indian laws are applicable. Hamas has had no such known history in the country, writes Kabir Taneja, a fellow with the Strategic Studies Programme at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).

According to him, the politics of declaring Hamas a terrorist organisation may be more complicated than it looks. Support for Palestinians is consistent across Muslim populations, including in India, home to the third-largest Muslim population in the world, says Taneja in the ORF article Reading Hamas from an Indian security vantage point.

Which countries declared Hamas a terrorist organisation?

The United States is Israels biggest ally. The US declared Hamas a Foreign Terrorist Organisation in October 1997. This was two years before it designated Al-Qaeda as an FTO in 1997.

The United Kingdom, Australia, Japan and the European Union have officially designated Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

However, the United Nations Security Council does not recognise Hamas as a terror group.

Which countries support Hamas?

Hamas has sympathisers in the Muslim world. Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday said that Hamas is not a terrorist organisation but a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands.

Hamas is not a terrorist organisation, it is a liberation group, mujahideen waging a battle to protect its lands and people, he told lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, using an Arabic word denoting those who fight for their faith, reports Reuters.

The Turkish leader also cancelled his trip to Israel. His latest remarks are his strongest yet on the ongoing conflict.

Iran is a big backer of the Palestinian terrorist group and has been assisting it through financial aid and military supplies. While reports emerged that Tehran had a role to play in the Hamas attack, Irans top authority Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said the country was not involved. But he praised Hamas for the attack. We kiss the hands of those who planned the attack on the Zionist regime, he added in a televised address on 10 October.

Qatar is also a strong supporter of Hamas and has extended financial support to the Palestinian organisation. It has hosted the groups political office in its capital of Doha for over a decade and the top Hamas leadership, including its chief Ismail Haniyeh, reportedly lives a life of luxury in the country.

The Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah has said that it was in direct contact with the leadership of the Palestinian resistance. On 8 October, a day after the Hamas strikes, Hezbollah launched guided rockets and artillery at Israeli-occupied positions in Shebaa Farms. The tensions near the Israel-Lebanon border continue with a senior Hamas official saying earlier that Lebanese Hezbollah will join the battle if Gaza is subjected to a war of annihilation, according to a report in The Associated Press (AP).

With inputs from agencies
Turkeys Recep Tayyip Erdogan has upset Israel by calling Hamas liberators who are fighting for their homeland.

Erdogan on Wednesday said while the West and Israel can view Hamas as a terrorist organisation, he views Hamas as mujahedeen  holy warriors engaged in jihad.

Erdogan also said he has cancelled his trip to Israel because of its inhumane war against Hamas in Gaza.

Israel has been carpet-bombing Gaza since the 7 October attack by Hamas left over 1,400 dead and around 220 people as hostages.

The Palestinian health ministry says more than 5,700 Palestinians have been killed in the war including some 2,300 minors  a toll from the bombardment without precedent in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Worse, an even greater loss of life in Gaza is looking since Israels forces are preparing a ground invasion.

But what did Erdogan say exactly? Why is he backing Hamas? And whats Turkeys role in the conflict?

Lets take a closer look:

What did Erdogan say?

As per The Times of Israel, Erdogan said that Israel and the West can view Hamas as a terrorist organization.

The West owes you a lot. But Turkey does not owe you anything, Erdogan, addressing his AK party in Parliament said.

Hamas is not a terrorist organization, it is a group of mujahideen defending their lands.

Western tears shed for Israel are a manifestation of fraud, he added, as per Hindustan Times.

Erdogan further said his plan to visit Israel is off.

We had a project to go to Israel, but it was cancelled, we will not go, Erdogan added.

I invite all other countries with reason and conscience to put pressure on the  government to return the state of Israel to sanity, he added as per Politico.

Erdogan met Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu during a United Nations summit in New York last month, marking an improvement in relations that began with a decision last year to reappoint ambassadors.

The Turkish leader did not say when he had intended to visit Israel, where Ankara had been eyeing joining a natural gas pipeline project promoted by the United States.

Of course, we had good intentions, but (Netanyahu) abused them, Erdogan said.

If he had continued with good intentions, our relations might have been different, but now, unfortunately, this will not happen either.

Erdogan had initially struck a measured tone on the first day of war, condemning all attacks against civilians and urging Israel to be measured in its response.

But he became much more vocal after the deadly strike on Ahli Arab hospital in Gaza last week, leading to large and angry protests across the Muslim world.

It is clear that security cannot be ensured by bombing hospitals, schools, mosques and churches, Erdogan said last week in a statement. I reiterate our call on the Israeli government not to expand the scope of its attacks against civilians and to immediately stop its operations that are bordering genocide.

The Times of Israel noted that Erdogan is yet to condemn Hamas killings of Israels citizens.

This isnt the first time Erdogan has struck such a tone about Hamas.

Erdogan previously posted on X in 2018, Hamas is not a terrorist organization and Palestinians are not terrorists.

It is a resistance movement that defends the Palestinian homeland against an occupying power.

Why is Erdogan backing Hamas?

For that, it is important to understand why Erdogan is hostile to Israel.

Ankaras relations with Israel have been strained since 2010 when an Israeli raid on a Turkish ship carrying aid into Gaza left 10 civilians dead.

As per The Times of Israel, prior to that the two nations were long-time allies.

Since the incident, Netanyahu and Erdogan have repeatedly traded insults.

Erdogan in 2014 accused Israel of keeping Hitlers spirit alive amid a war with Gaza.

Ties rebounded slightly, only for both nations to recall their ambassadors after violence broke out in Gaza and the Trump regime shifted its embassy to Jerusalem.

Erdogan in December 2020, facing economic headwinds domestically and diplomatic isolation globally, began signalling about being open to improving ties.

In August, Israel and Turkey announced that diplomatic ties were completely restored, as per The Times of Israel.

While there was some thawing of the relations lately, the Hamas attack and its aftermath have changed the equation yet again.

Israels foreign ministry spokesperson posted on X:

Israel wholeheartedly rejects the Turkish Presidents harsh words about the terrorist organization Hamas.

Hamas is a despicable terrorist organization worse than ISIS that brutally and intentionally murders babies, children, women and the elderly, takes civilians hostage and uses pic.twitter.com/LU4mJGz18v  Lior Haiat  (@LiorHaiat) October 25, 2023



What is Turkeys role in conflict?

Turkey in the past has pulled for a two-state solution as the way to solve the Israel-Palestine problem.

However, under Erdogan, it has clearly backed Hamas.

As per The Times of Israel, Turkey helmed by Erdogan has a long and lasting relationship with Hamas.

Not only has Erdogan kept in touch with Hamas leadership since the war kicked off, he has even allowed the terror group to keep an office in Istanbul for more than a decade.

Some have argued that Turkey is uniquely positioned to play peacemaker.

Turkey has a good communication channel with Hamas, which is an important asset, Taha Ozhan, research director at the Ankara Institute, told Al Jazeera. It has been built up over 17 years, when Turkey was the only country to invite Hamas into [its capital].

Ozhan, a former chair of the Turkish parliaments foreign affairs committee, added, In these times of crisis, the communication channels and relations are important.

Turkeys foreign minister Hakan Fidan has said Ankara is prioritising aid to Gaza and securing the release of hostages taken by Hamas.

We have started discussing  with the political section of Hamas, Fidan said. Weve been putting a lot of effort to make sure that children and foreigners especially are released.

On Tuesday, Erdogan accused the United Nations Security Council  where the United States, Britain and France have permanent seats  of bowing to the Israeli regime.

On Wednesday, he added: Those outside the region should stop pouring fuel into the fire.

All parties should take their hands off the trigger and a ceasefire should be declared immediately Direct or indirect negotiations should be initiated to release the hostages.

Erdogan is expected to appear at a massive rally in Istanbul on Saturday defending Palestinian right.

What do experts say?

That Erdogans words have seemingly put paid to any notion that Ankara could act impartially.

A piece in CFR contended that the Turkish peoples outpouring of sympathy for Gaza is only likely to further cement Erdogans bond with Hamas.

Still, Erdogans sympathies for Hamas notwithstanding, he is also acutely aware that a major conflagration in the region would be detrimental to everyone, Turkey included. This explains why he reportedly warned his Iranian counterpart, Ebrahim Raisi, against steps that would increase tensions, the piece argued.

The piece added that Erdogan is now looking at the relationship with Israel and the United States further going downhill.

Erdogan could have initially contributed much to the search for a compromise in this conflict. He has eschewed the little trust Washington may have had in him with the stridency of his anti-American language. He appears to have dealt himself out of the US-led negotiations, the piece concluded.

A piece in Foreign Policy said Erdogan made a personal choice to foster the relationship with Hamas.

At this point, though, the Hamas relationship has deep roots in Turkey and will be difficult to uproot, the piece said. It added that no one takes Erdogan seriously due to his ties with Hamas.

In charting such a course, Erdogan is once again acting in a manner that confirms the Wests deepest suspicions about his true affinities. As the Biden administration continues to shore up support for Israel through U.S. Secretary of State Antonys Blinkens shuttle diplomacy efforts, the only stop missing from his tour of the region is Ankara. Turkey appears to have made its choice to stand with Hamas, only because Erdogan wanted it this way, the piece concluded.

But others put the ball squarely in the court of Israel and the West.

Without talking about occupation, without talking about Palestine and Palestinians situation, theres no room to move, its just talk, Ozhan told Al Jazeera.

It depends on if Israel  and the support it has coming from Washington and Europe  are really interested in mediation.

Ohan warned that a ripple effect could widen the conflict.

The wise choice should be re-establishing a political context and using this crisis as a leverage to create a political framework. But it depends on Israel and it depends on some Western capitals.

With inputs from agencies
Israel has agreed to delay an expected invasion of Gaza for now so that the United States can rush missile defences to the region to protect its troops there, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing US and Israeli officials.

Both Israel and the Biden administration want to exhaust every effort to try and get hostages out of Gaza, an unidentified senior Israeli official told Axios. However, the official stressed that Israel is just delaying its plans for ground assault, not dropping them.

Israel is also taking into account in its planning the effort to supply humanitarian aid to civilians inside Gaza, as well as diplomatic efforts to free hostages held by Hamas militants, the report said.

Threats to US troops were of paramount concern, it said.

The US military and other officials believe their forces will be targeted by militant groups once the invasion of the Hamas-ruled Palestinian territory starts.

The United States is hurrying to deploy nearly a dozen air-defence systems to the region, according to the Journal.

Reuters reported on Monday that Washington advised Israel to hold off on a ground assault in the Gaza Strip and is keeping Qatar  a broker with the Palestinian militants  apprised of those talks as its tries to free more hostages and prepare for a possible wider regional war.

This followed reports that the Pentagon planned to send two Iron Dome missile defence systems to Israel to help it protect itself against inbound missiles, as well as a Terminal High Altitude Area Defence (THAAD) system and more Patriot air defence missile system battalions to the West Asia.

While speaking to Axios, Israeli sources admitted that some of the hostages had likely already been killed in Israels retaliatory air raids on Gaza. On Monday, a Hamas spokesperson told Sky News that Israeli strikes had murdered 22 captives.

According to the outlet, Israeli officials stated that they were aware that once their force launched its ground invasion, a deal for the hostages would be practically impossible.

They urged Egyptian mediators that if Hamas wants to reach a solution, it must first release all of the women and children it has detained.

With inputs from Reuters
India has expressed deep shock over a Qatari court handing the death penalty to eight Indian nationals, saying that it is exploring all legal options in the case.

We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options, MEA said in a statement.

The eight former Indian Navy personnel have been in jail since August last year. They are accused of espionage on behalf of Israel, with Qatari authorities reportedly having possession of electronic evidence to support these allegations.

It is absolutely shocking. India has such good relations with Qatar and this was not expected. We hardly even know the charges against them. I do not think the trial has been fair. Indian government should be proactive in getting them out as they are our veterans, said former spokesperson of Indian Navy Captain D K Sharma.

According to media reports, these individuals were part of a group of former Indian Navy members employed by Dahra Global Technologies. They were working on a project of great sensitivity, involving the construction of midget submarines with stealth capabilities based on Italian technology.

These officials have been identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh, according to various media reports.

We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, it said.

Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, says the Ministry of External Affairs.

Sources told the ANI that there is a possibility of the ex-Indian Navy officers being framed by Pakistani intelligence agencies.

Last year, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had said, We are engaged with the Qatari authorities. Our embassy in Doha continues to remain in touch with the families. The next day of the hearing is in early May. We are trying to see what can be done before that in connection with that hearing.

Meetu Bhargava, who is the sister of one of the officers detained and lives in Gwalior, sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back. In a post on X on June 8 she had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.

These Ex Navy officers are the pride of the nation & again I request our Honble Prime Minister with folded hands that it is high time that they all are brought back to India immediately without any further delay pl. @narendramodi @AmitShah @rajnathsingh @MOS_MEA she posted on X.
The Election Commission on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Assam Chief Minister and BJP leader Himanta Biswa Sarma for his remarks targeting Chhattisgarhs lone Muslim minister Mohammad Akbar during the assembly poll campaign last week.

The commission has asked Sarma to respond to the notice by 5 pm on October 30.

During his speech in Kawardha in Chhattisgarh on October 18, Sarma had taken a controversial dig at Akbar saying that the land of Mata Kaushalya will get defiled if Akbar isnt sent off.

If one Akbar comes to some place, he calls 100 Akbars. So, send him off as soon as possible, otherwise the land of Mata Kaushalya will get defiled, he said.

Mata Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Ram, is believed to hail from what is modern day Chhattisgarh.

While issuing him a notice, the poll panel reminded him of a provision in the poll code which states that no party or candidate shall include in any activity which may aggravate existing differences or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic.

Elections to the 90-member Chhattisgarh assembly will be held in two phases  on November 7 and 17.
Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has been summoned by the Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha on October 31 in connection with the cash-for-query allegations against her.

The Ethics Committee held its first meeting today where its head and BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar said that the panel will seek assistance from the Ministries of Home Affairs and IT in probing the allegations against the TMC MP.

On Thursday, BJP parliamentarian Nishikant Dubey, along with advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai submitted their statements to the committee in connection with the matter.

Committee heard both the people who were summoned today  the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey. Their evidence were looked into. Looking into the seriousness of it, the Committee decided to summon Mahua Moitra asking her to appear before it on 31st October, Sonkar said.

#WATCH | Delhi | Chairman of Parliament Ethics Committee, Vinod Sonkar says, Committee heard both the people who were summoned today  the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey. Their evidence were looked into. Looking into the seriousness of it, the Committee decided to summon Mahua pic.twitter.com/w9oT18rvwJ  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

After his meeting with the committee, Dehadrai said, I have told the truth before the Committee. All members of the committee enquired from me cordially. I answered to all that was asked from me.

#WATCH | Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai appears before the Ethics Committee of Parliament in cash for query charge against TMC MP Mahua Moitra I have told the truth before the Committee. All members of the committee enquired from me cordially. I answered to all that was asked pic.twitter.com/uwDct2QnAm  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

In his complaint to Speaker Om Birla, BJP member Dubey has cited documents shared by Dehadrai to back his cash-for-query allegations against Moitra.
Two terrorists were killed in an encounter between terrorists and security personnel in Jammu and Kashmirs Kupwara district in the Machhal sector on Thursday, police said.

The operation is still underway, the police added.

Based on a specific information provided by Kupwara Police, an encounter has started in Machhal sector in which two terrorists have been killed so far. Operation underway. Further details shall follow, Kashmir Zone Police said in a post on X.

Earlier in the day, in a joint operation with Jammu and Kashmir Police, personnel of the Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in the Kupwara sector.

Taking to the social media platform, X, Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said, In a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & Intelligence agencies on 26 Oct 23, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the #LoC in #Kupwara sector. Operations are in progress.

Further details are awaited.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday asked the top commanders of the Indian Air Force to examine the rapidly changing global geo-political situation and assess them in the Indian context besides emphasising on the need to bolster its operational readiness.

In an address at the inaugural session of the two-day IAF commanders conference, Singh also exhorted the top brass of the force to focus on strengthening Indias air defence systems and use of drones, noting that new trends have emerged in the field of air warfare.

It is learnt that the commanders are extensively analysing use of various aerial platforms in the Hamas-Israel conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war.

There are new challenges emanating from the global security scenario. We must always be ready to deal with them, Singh told the commanders at the conference here.

Chief of Air staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and other commanders are also carrying out a comprehensive review of the security situation along the border with China and Pakistan.

In his address, Singh emphasised on the need to enhance operational preparedness and highlighted the importance of joint planning and execution of operations by the three services.

Singh urged the IAF commanders to examine the rapidly changing global geo-political situation and assess them in the Indian context, the defence ministry said.

He pointed out that new trends have emerged in the field of air warfare and there is a need to analyse and learn from them to strengthen the defence preparedness.

The defence minister also exhorted the IAF to focus on strengthening the air defence systems, use of drones and making headway in the field of aerospace to protect Indias air domain, the ministry said.

It said Singh praised the stellar role played by the IAF during the recent humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions in Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and other flood affected areas.

He also congratulated the IAF for successfully organising the Air Force Day parade and air display in Uttar Pradeshs Prayagraj.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan were among those present on the occasion.

The commanders will hold wide-ranging deliberations on the IAFs plans for the future with an aim to bolster its combat capabilities, sources said.

They are especially expected to hold extensive deliberations on use of new technologies.
Some areas in the Indo-Gangetic basin in India have already passed the groundwater depletion tipping point and its entire northwestern region is predicted to experience critically low groundwater availability by 2025, according to a new report by the United Nations.

Titled Interconnected Disaster Risks Report 2023 and published by the United Nations University  Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS), the report highlights that the world is approaching six environmental tipping points: accelerating extinctions, groundwater depletion, mountain glacier melting, space debris, unbearable heat and an uninsurable future.

Environmental tipping points are critical thresholds in the Earths systems, beyond which abrupt and often irreversible changes occur, leading to profound and sometimes catastrophic shifts in ecosystems, climate patterns and the overall environment.

Around 70 per cent of groundwater withdrawals are used for agriculture, often when above-ground water sources are insufficient. Aquifers play a crucial role in mitigating agricultural losses caused by drought, a challenge expected to worsen due to climate change.

However, the report warns that the aquifers themselves are approaching a tipping point. More than half of the worlds major aquifers are depleting faster than they can naturally replenish. When the water table falls below a level accessible by existing wells, farmers may lose access to water, posing a risk to entire food production systems.

Some countries, like Saudi Arabia, have already exceeded the groundwater risk tipping point, while others, including India, are not far from it.

India is the worlds largest user of groundwater, exceeding the use of the United States and China combined. The northwestern region of India serves as the bread basket for the nations growing 1.4 billion people, with the states of Punjab and Haryana producing 50 per cent of the countrys rice supply and 85 per cent of its wheat stocks.

However, 78 per cent of wells in Punjab are considered overexploited and the northwestern region as a whole is predicted to experience critically low groundwater availability by 2025, the report says.

Jack OConnor, the lead author and senior expert at UNU-EHS, said, As we approach these tipping points, we will already begin to experience the impacts. Once crossed, it will be difficult to go back. Our report can help us see risks ahead of us, the causes behind them and the urgent changes required to avoid them.
India requires a national security strategy, and while it may take time, the government should come out with a white paper on defence to make clear its thinking on important issues, former national security adviser (NSA) Shivshankar Menon said.

Speaking at the launch of book Indias National Security Challenges, which has been edited by former Jammu and Kashmir governor NN Vohra, Menon, on Wednesday, also said deterrence has broken down on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Stressing that defence reforms are required, Menon said in the past, at least three attempts have been made to produce a national security strategy.

At least three attempts that I know of in past to produce a national security strategy. In each case, hesitation came not from professionals, but from political level. I sense, but cannot prove, that they do not wish their hands to be tied, he said.

If you agree on ends in a national strategy, you have to provide the means. I think this is where the resistance comes from, the former NSA said. Citing examples of lack of clarity, Menon mentioned that the operational role of the chief of defence staff (CDS) is unclear.

Today, if you look a CDS charter, he is the principal military advisorhe is also equivalent to the Secretary, the Department of Military Affairs, and he is also supposed to drive military reform. What is unclear is his operational role, and that is something on which we need much more clarity. There is also a larger issue of multiple institutions created over time, and their relation with each other, he said. A clear chain of command is essential if we have to respond to the security situation that faces us. Frankly, uncertainty in this aspect affects our capability to deter our adversaries, he said.

Menon said while a full-fledged national security policy may be difficult at this time, the government should bring a white paper on defence. It is time for a white paper on defence that makes clear the governments thinking on all of these issues and the path forward, he said. He also mentioned first CDS Gen Bipin Rawat who died in a plane crash in January 2020, and said he was very committed to introducing jointness, and on creation of theatre command. We hear much less about it today, he said. We hear much less about it today, he said. Menon added that in countries which have gone for jointness and theaterisation, there was a lack of consensus among stakeholders, and what is needed is a political decision at the top.

Commenting on the India-China border situation, Menon said that deterrence has broken down on LAC with China. What happened in 2020 in Western sector and subsequent developments including the disengagement in some areas, is evident in satellite pics that people can access. These do not suggest deterrence has been re-established. Commenting on the India-China border situation, Menon said that deterrence has broken down on LAC with China. There is a political impasse and a military stand-off. We are either stabilising the border with China or preventing China from using the threat of action on the border, he said. He also said that several reforms started during the term of Gen Rawat have not been completed.

Reform half done creates new vulnerabilities without resolving old ones. We are today in a situation where many reforms begun by former CDS, those reforms are still incomplete. Besides, as I said, the operational role needs to be clear at every level, from NSA, CDS downward he said, citing the example of the Agnipath scheme, which he said, impacted the India-Nepal relationship.
The Chief of Army Staff, Manoj Pande, said on Thursday that self-reliance is one of the key lessons in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, adding that India has done well there.

The Army Chief was speaking at the curtain-raiser event of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue in the national capital.

He said, Self-reliance is one of the key lessons in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and we have done well there. The lesson from the Russia-Ukraine conflict is that land will continue to be a key domain of warfare where you have contested borders, as in our case. The victory markers will have to be defined in the land domain. That is not to suggest that the integration or jointness that we ought to achieve is not important but in my view, land domain is going to be more important.

Army Chief Manoj Pande said, We are seeing unprecedented changes in the world. Were also seeing the centrality of national interests in global affairs. The importance of national security is growing in international affairs.

The last year has been challenging yet satisfying. As far as the OP situation is concerned, it is stable and we have dealt with internal security challenges the way we are supposed to deal with them, he added.

In response to a query about data and new technology being the new engines of war, Gen. Manoj Pande said that modernization and technology indication are central to the capability development programme.

Modernization and technology indication are central to our capability development programme. We have been focusing on the infusion of new technology. We have identified 45 niche technologies that we need to follow. We have defined philosophy for Artificial Intelligence and machine learning. AI in terms of surveillance and image interpretation and the key is to interpret information quickly. In the field of robotics, we are looking at man-and-unmanned combinations, he said.

The Army Chief further expressed happiness over the joining of the first batch of Agniveers and said that their feedback is good.

The first batch of 40,000 Agniveers have joined the units and the feedback from the field is good and encouraging, he said.

Chanakya Defence Dialogue is a two-day gathering of eminent speakers, military strategists, ambassadors, and leading thinkers from the realms of defence and strategic affairs. It will deliberate on the wide range of security challenges and strategies in the pivotal regions of South Asia and the Indo-Pacific.
The missile strike on the al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza has added to tensions in the Middle East, a region already simmering since the attack on Israel by Hamas and its retaliation. With both sides blaming the other for the strike, it was left to nations to adopt their own stance, based on perceptions (not necessarily intelligence). No incident in the Russo-Ukraine conflict generated the kind of regional tensions as this has.

The US, which was managing the Middle East environment, with ties and alliances with different nations, many sworn enemies, is now attempting to contain the fallout. The cancelling of a four-way summit with Biden by the Jordanian King is an indicator of which way regional winds are blowing. Hamass random killing of Israelis as also taking over 200 hostages has placed Israel and its main backer, the US, in a tight spot. Post interjection of Qatar, two US hostages were freed. There is no word on Israeli hostages or those from other nationalities.

Israel had limited choices from the outset. It had to degrade the war waging potential of Hamas, for which an aerial assault on Gaza was paramount, despite being aware of collateral damage. A ground offensive would imply further destruction as also fighting in Built Up Areas, which suits the defender more than the attacker. Hamas would have laid a series of booby traps and selected their positions to cause maximum Israeli casualties. It would be a slow slogging operation adding to tensions as casualties mount. Hence the hesitation on the part of Israel.

Netanyahu is banking on negotiations for release of hostages alongside blocking of aid moving into Gaza. Arab states are trying to bring Hamas onto the bargaining table. How it will finally pan out is to be seen.

However, no Arab state is neither willing to accept Gazan refugees, nor there is any desire from them to witness increased casualties and destruction. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, the refugees may not be permitted back by Israel, though it has thus far indicated that it has no desire to occupy Gaza. Secondly, the refugees may not return adding to problems of the recipient state. Jordan has faced this scenario earlier. It also implies that Arab nations consider Israel responsible for the safety of Gazans, which Israel refuses to accept.

As casualties rise, proxy terrorist groups would join the battle against Israel plunging the Middle East into increased instability. The Hezbollah is already engaging Israel along its northern borders. Press reports mention that Iran allied groups in Iraq have announced the creation of a joint operations centre to support Hamas. US warships have intercepted missiles fired from Yemen by Iran backed Houthi rebels aimed at Israel.

No Arab nation is likely to get militarily involved rather would attempt diplomatic and economic coercion while backing anti-Israel proxies. With attacks on its diplomats and embassies increasing, Israel has begun reducing its diplomatic presence in Arab states.

The Arab world is sending messages to Israel to contain the fallout, but none are pushing Hamas to relent and pull back. This is possibly because they are aware that they can pressurise the US and Israel more effectively than influencing Hamas. Hence, US Secretary of State, Antony Blinkens hopping diplomacy, hoping to convince regional powers to compel Hamas to come to terms, failed.

President Bidens Tel Aviv visit was intended to convince Netanyahu to avoid launching a ground offensive. Rishi Sunak and the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, followed Biden to Israel with the same intent. European leaders are facing rising discontent at home. Its migrants, largely Muslims, are displaying their anger against Israel. In case the war drags on and casualties rise, the intensity of protests and violence would increase simultaneously. Europe has almost no influence in the region. It has little choice but to back Israel.

Israel is caught between the frying pan and the fire. If it does not act, threats will not reduce, and Hamas will be emboldened. If it acts and civilian casualties rise, it would face increased proxy wars on all its borders, added hostility from its neighbours, apart from global criticism. If it launches a ground offensive and gets bogged down, it could enhance its vulnerability.

To display support and deter enlargement of the conflict, the US is positioning its troops in Israel while deploying its naval flotilla close to Israeli shores. Its troops would not be involved in any Israeli military action. US support may deter nations, but not proxies. Iran backed proxies are already launching drone and missile strikes on US bases in Iraq and Syria.

The Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Forum was held at the same time in Beijing. This gave an opportunity to Xi Jinping and Putin to display their unison in views. Both nations have repeatedly demanded a ceasefire in Gaza without addressing core issues of Israeli hostages and threat of Hamas. Both are close to Iran, which has funded and armed Hamas, but are not pushing Tehran to reign in Hamas. It appears they would prefer the scenario to worsen.

Russia and China attempted to push through a resolution in the UNSC condemning violence and terrorism in the Israel-Gaza region. It failed because it made no mention of Hamass attack on Israel. Putin and Xi, in their meeting, blamed the US for increasing tensions in the region.

China and the US have been competing for influence in the Middle East, where the US currently holds sway. The IMEE EC (India, Middle East, Europe Economic Corridor) is being touted as a challenge to the Chinese BRI. Increased tensions in the region could provide China an opportunity to regain the initiative as Arab nations would be vary of ties with Israel.

The Russia-China intent of accusing the US of being responsible for the crisis is also to win over the Global South, some of which are Muslim majority states. To display their support for Hamas, Russia has sent 27 tonnes of humanitarian aid for Gaza, while Xi stated, China is willing to enhance cooperation with Egypt and inject more certainty and stability into the region and the world.

China realises that displaying solidarity with Palestine would resonate with Arab states. By commenting on security and wellbeing of Gazans, Beijing would offset comments on its suppression of Muslims in Xinjiang. The Chinese approach was evident when its foreign minister Wang Yi stated, Israels actions have gone beyond the scope of self-defence. It should stop imposing collective punishment on the people of Gaza. In fact, collective punishment has been the Chinese norm since the creation of a communist government in the country, most recently visible in its handling of COVID.

In the Russo-Ukraine war there were nations, including India and the Global South, which maintained a neutral stance and sought peace as also reinstatement of the grain deal. In the case of Israel-Gaza, divisions are evident, largely based by religion or an anti-US/Israel view. Simultaneously, pressure will continue to mount on Israel to adhere to global norms of war.

It is difficult to demand talks/peace as Hamas is a terrorist organisation which does not represent a state and the Palestinian Authority has no control over Gaza. Egypt is hosting peace talks however missing from the table are representatives from Israel and Hamas, the two major protagonists. Without their perspectives, outcomes are unlikely. It is similar to multiple peace talks hosted over the Russo-Ukraine conflict which ended with just statements.

The Middle East cauldron is likely to overflow. It could be Israel versus a group of proxy terrorist organisations. Israel would refuse to yield to pressure to slow down its operations leading to its isolation from Arab states. Western attention and military aid would shift from Ukraine to Israel, benefitting Russia. A boiling Middle East with continuation of the war in Ukraine could create the right environment for China to flex its muscles against Taiwan as also against its adversaries in the South China Sea, an act which has already commenced.

The author is a former Indian Army officer, strategic analyst and columnist. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Tehran, 27 November, 2020. A remote-controlled Belgian FN MAG 7.62-mm machine gun equipped with an intelligent satellite system using AI and concealed in the bed of a parked blue Zamyad pick-up fires 15 rounds in less than a minute.

Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the father of Irans nuclear programmeshielded by escort vehiclesis assassinated on Imam Khomeini Boulevard, but his wife seated next to him in the black Nissan Teana sedan is unscathed. A few seconds later, the pick-up explodes.

Unbelievable as it might sound, the computerised sharpshooter was around 1,600 km away at an undisclosed location leaving Fakhrizadehs IRGC bodyguards scratching their heads.

The hit squad belonged to the Mossad.

Beit Lahiya, Gaza Strip, 5 January, 1996. A bugged cell phone containing 15 gm of RDX connected to an overhead Israeli plane that relays info to a command post.

Yahya Abd-al-Latif Ayyash, aka The Mechanic, Hamass chief bombmaker and the leader of the West Bank battalion of the Ezzedeen Al-Qassam Brigades, receives his fathers call and is killed instantaneously.

The hit squad belonged to the Shin Bet.

The famed Mossad and Shin Bet have an enviable record in snooping, intelligence gathering and assassination of Israels enemies using signals intelligence (SIGINT), human intelligence (HUMINT) and imagery intelligence (IMINT).

Mossad moles are planted even among Israels sworn enemiesIran, Hamas and Hezbollah. The Israeli spy apparatus is infamous for hacking phones and computers of adversaries, stealing their electronic data and intercepting their communications.

So, how the Mossad, Shin Bet and Aman (Israeli Military Intelligence) abysmally failed in sniffing the daring three-pronged 7 October Hamas blitzkrieg on the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Yom Kippur War on despite surveillance drones, border security cameras and soldiers guarding the Gaza Strip border.

It was a combined disaster involving intelligence and policy failure. Ironically, its a shocking replay of the Fourth ArabIsraeli War (October 6-25, 1973). What makes the Hamas assault more outrageous is it was Israel versus one terrorist organisation, not the combined military prowess of four Arab states.

There are various reasons for the colossal failure of the dreaded Israeli spy agencies.

Ignorance and overconfidence

Its the Golda Meir moment for Benjamin Netanyahu.

It was 25 September, 1973, a few days before the holiest day of the Jewish year Yom Kippur. What resembled another secret meeting between Jordans King Hussein and top Israeli leaders was an ominous warning.

Accompanied by his Prime Minister (PM) Zaid Rifai, and intelligence chief General Fathi Abu Talib, Hussein landed in Tel Aviv after an extraordinary meeting with Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and his Syrian counterpart Hafez al-Assad in Cairo.

Though Sadat and al-Assad had excluded Hussein from their plot, the king was alarmed when they asked whether he would join a combined Egyptian-Syrian attack on Israel.

Hussein met Israeli prime minister Golda Meir and Mossad chief Zvi Zamir with an ominous warningEgypt and Syria were on the verge of attacking Israel.

Meir relayed the impending danger to her defence minister Moshe Dayan, who immediately contacted the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) chief intelligence officer General Eli Zeira and his deputy Aryeh Shalev.

However, Zeira and Shalev rubbished Husseins warning as mere guesswork as they believed the Arabs were too weak to attack and would lose. Even Dayan mistook the red flag for exaggeration.

According to former CIA counterterrorism expert Bruce O Riedel, Zamirs description of the Israeli views of the Arabs proved disastrous. [W]e scorned them, he later said.

The Mossad even ignored the alarms raised by its mole in the Egyptian government in the late 60s and early 70s. Egyptian billionaire Ashraf Marwan was President Gamal Abdel Nassers son-in-law with considerable knowledge of Cairos military and diplomatic manoeuvres. Later, he became Sadats close confidant.

Marwan had informed the Mossad that Sadat was waiting for Soviet SAM Scuds and longer-range fighter bombers to prevent an Israeli retaliation if attacked.

By 1973, Marwan had leaked to Israel the Egyptian militarys complete order of battle, command structure, arms and weapons in detail and even the plan of attack. However, Israel thought an Arab offensive would collapse before its air and ground superiority and the Arabs wouldnt attack for years.

When Marwan warned in April that Egypt and Syria would attack in mid-May as Algeria and Libya had deployed longer-range jets, the Directorate of Military Intelligence (DMI) dismissed it as wrong information with a very low probability of an attack.

By August, a Soviet Scud brigade with several dozen missiles arrived in Egypt and training started. Marwan also informed the Mossad of a meeting between Sadat and Saudi Arabias King Faisal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud where the Egyptian president said an attack was imminent.

In late September, Syria, adept in the use of Soviet SAMs delivered earlier that year, was ready to attack with three infantry and two armoured divisionsthe alert was issued by Israels most trusted ally, the United States.

Meirs government, however, ignored the CIA report as alarmist.

At 2 pm on 6 October, a complacent Israel was juddered when five Syrian Army divisions (1,400 tanks and 1,000 pieces of artillery) attacked the Golan Heights and an equal number of Egyptian infantry divisions (1,300 tanks and 2,000 artillery pieces) targeted Israeli soldiers, mostly reservists, across the Suez Canal.

Egypt and Syria had launched Operation Badr, catching Israel off guard.

Fifty years later, Netanyahu did a Meir.

We have warned them an explosion of the situation is coming, and very soon, and it would be big. But they underestimated such warnings, an Egyptian official requesting anonymity told The Associated Press referring to the warning given to Israel.

According to the Ynet news site, Egypts intelligence minister General Abbas Kamel, in fact, warned Netanyahu merely 10 days before the attack that Hamas terrorists were likely to do something unusual and execute a terrible operation.

Netanyahus indifference shocked Egyptian officials, who said that he was too submerged in the West Banks rising violence against increasing Israeli settlements.

After the Egyptian revelation, Bibi denied receiving the warning and termed it fake news.

No early message came from Egypt and the prime minister did not speak or meet with the intelligence chief since the establishment of the governmentnot indirectly or directly, Netanyahus office said.

As prime minister, Netanyahu cannot escape responsibility for the Israeli intelligence failure any more than then-Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir could in the aftermath of the 1973 war, writes David Rosenberg. https://t.co/JdIjbyOL2c  Foreign Policy (@ForeignPolicy) October 19, 2023

The situation strikingly resembled the Hussein-Meir situation. Like Meir, Netanyahu too didnt see the attack coming. Both thought that the enemy wouldnt attack because they would lose. Therefore, every rad flag and the enemys military preparedness were ignored.

The carelessness and ignorance of Mossad director David Barnea, Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi were equally astonishing.

Bar admitted to the Shin Bets failure. Despite a series of actions we carried out, unfortunately, last Saturday, we were unable to create a sufficient advance warning that would allow us to thwart the attack. As the one who heads the organisation, the responsibility for this is mine, he told the media.

And so did Halevi. The Military Intelligence Directorate, under my command, failed to warn of the terror attack carried out by Hamas. We failed in our most important mission, and as the head of the Military Intelligence Directorate, I bear full responsibility for the failure, he said.

Another reason for Israels casual attitude could be the usual Hamas threat, not a massive lightning-quick operation.

For example, a few weeks before 9/11, then-President George W Bush discounted the possibility of an immediate Al-Qaeda attack in the US considering that Osama bin Laden had always wanted to target America.

According to The 9/11 Commission Report, the FBI warned the government on 1 August, 2011, that an Al Qaeda attack in the US could not be discounted on the upcoming anniversary of the East Africa embassy bombings.

Later, two CIA analysts writing an agency briefing on the looming threat believed that the threat of an Al Qaeda attack in the US was current and serious.

However, after the August 6 Presidential Daily Brief titled Bin Laden Determined to Strike in USthe 36th about Bin Laden or Al-Qaeda but the first regarding the possibility of a terrorist attack in the USBush said, Bin Laden had long been talking about his desire to attack America.

The most shocking part of the Israeli failure was the Gaza border guards not acting on a specific intel warning them of a surge in activity in Gazan terrorist networks just before the attacks, two senior security officials told The New York Times.

Both Meir, Netanyahu distracted, deceived

Like Meir, Netanyahu was also distracted. The day after meeting Hussein, she went to Strasbourg (France) to address the European Parliament and subsequently to Vienna (Austria) after Arab terrorists hijacked a train filled with Russian Jews leaving the Soviet Union, writes Riedel.

The identities of the two Arab terrorists who hijacked the Czechoslovakia-Austria Chopin Express on September 26, 1973, and the timing still trigger suspicion that the hijack aimed to divert Meirs attention from the coming war.

The terrorists belonged to the Eagles of the Palestinian Revolution group, which was in reality As Saiqa, a terror outfit established by the Syrian Baath Party.

The terrorists later told a German newspaper that the hijacking was part of the wars preparations.

Meir and Dayan were preoccupied with the hijacking for five critical days before the war.

Riedel too believes the hijack may have been designed to deflect Israeli attention away from the Levant to the Danube. If it was intended to distract Israel, it succeeded brilliantly.

Since returning to power in last December, Netanyahu has deployed more troops in the West Bank to stem the increasing violence compared to Gaza.

In February, Israel sent additional troops to the West Bank. In July, Israel launched one of the biggest military operations in years, including overnight aerial and ground assaults, on the Jenin refugee camp. Before the Hamas attack, around 22 battalions were deployed in the West Bank and only two near Gaza.

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin warned Netanyahu that his excessive focus on West Bank was diverting their attention from Iran. Though he didnt mention Hamas, Iran funds and trains it.

Consequently, several troops deployed on the Gaza border were diverted to the West Bank.

Not surprising that Hamas and Islamic Jihad noticed the low staffing at the border, Aharon Zeevi Farkash, former head of Aman, told Israeli radio station Reshet Bet.

At worst, Netanyahu expected hundreds of Palestinians and dozens of Israelis to dielike in earlier attackseven if Hamas attacked.

Moreover, Netanyahus controversial plan to overhaul the judiciary, which triggered furious protests, impacted Israels military preparedness with reservists joining the demonstrations.

The DMI had sent four letters to Netanyahu warning of the security impact of his judicial overhaul. In July, Yedioth Ahronoth reported that senior intelligence officers had warned that Iran and Hezbollah could exploit a divided Israel. Halevi met with Netanyahu to highlight the fear.

In August, Hezbollah chief Hasan Nasrallah said, Israel, once a formidable regional power, has gradually eroded in faith, consciousness, self-assurance and humility.

Deception followed distraction twice in 50 years.

Egypt duped Israel into believing that its secretive major military exercise on the Suez Canal, codenamed Tahrir 41 from October 1 to 7, was only a drill, not a cover-up for the attack.

A survey of 4,000 captured soldiers showed only one knew on October 3 that the war was scheduled to start on the 6th. Of the 18 Colonels captured, only four knew on the 4th. Ninety-five per cent learned that the war was coming on the morning of the 6th, Riedel writes.

In a typical example of the calm before the storm, Hamas went mum as Israel reopened crossing points on the Gaza border in September to allow thousands of Palestinian workers to rejoin work in Israel and the West Bank. Around 18,000 Gazans have work permits to earn livelihood in Israel and the West Bank, which injects $2 million into cash daily to the blockaded and impoverished enclave.

With no major escalation with Hamas after May 2021, Israel was misled into believing that the terrorist organisation had changed its tactics and was more interested in governing, developing Gazas economy and improving the standard of living of Gazans.

Hamas went underground to keep the attack plan under wraps aware that Israeli spies monitored its calls. Its operatives never discussed the plan during calls. Instead, their conversations were about the loss in the May 2021 violence, making Israel believe the group wont launch another major attack.

HUMINT vs SIGINT

Hamas had been planning operation Al-Aqsa Flood for the last two years right under Israels noseundetected without the intelligence agencies getting a whiff.

The storming of the Al-Aqsa Mosque by Israeli troops in May 2021 had enraged Al-Qassam Brigades elusive chief Mohammed Deif, the most wanted terrorist in Israel who has survived seven assassination attempts.

Deif started hatching the audacious plot, which involved meticulous planning, rigorous training, coordination, funds, the element of surprise and deception.

In an audio tape released while Hamas terrorists were slaughtering Israelis, Deif said, Today, the rage of Al-Aqsa, the rage of our people and nation is exploding. Our mujahedeen (fighters), today is your day to make this criminal understand that his time has ended.

Hundreds of Al-Qassam Brigades members, including its elite commando unit Nukhba, which led the attack, trained in a simulated environment right near the Gaza-Israel border.

A Hamas video footage released after the attack shows terrorists firing rockets, RPGs and heavy machine guns, attacking mock Israeli buildings with Kalashnikovs, taking off and landing on paragliders and taking hostages.

While SIGINT is the primary tool for intel gathering used by spy agencies across the globe, Hamas terrorists went low tech to avoid high techthey used HUMINT to evade technological intelligence gathering.

Hamas stopped using technology. In all probability, Hamas circumvented Israeli intelligence by going primitive. It used couriers and relayed messages in person rather than phones and computers.

The possibility of Hamas moles in the thousands of Gazans working in Israel and the West Bank cant be discounted either.

The shocking resemblance between the 1973 and 2023 intelligence and policy failures shows how pre-conceived notions, prejudices and overconfidence of the intelligence community and the government make them ignorant of changing threats.

The writer is a freelance journalist with two decades of experience and comments primarily on foreign affairs. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Jammu and Kashmir is commemorating its 76th Accession Day on 26 October 2023. This day holds great significance as it marks the moment when the people of this former princely state firmly chose their destiny by merging with the Union of India. Despite being an integral part of Indias celebrated democratic journey, J&K has faced significant challenges due to persistent external interference of Pakistan that has aimed to disrupt its internal fabric.

In the run-up to Accession Day, Pakistan and its state-sponsored actors are once again engaging in their annual ritual of undermining the political choices made by the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistans attempts are focused on amplifying a fake narrative that questions the democratic progress of this region. This orchestrated effort by the Pakistani Army-backed Internet militias, though unrelenting, is actually turning into a self-defeating exercise. The Pakistan-sponsored campaigns exposed its dubious role in 1947 followed by desperate attempts in the last seven and a half decades to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir.

It has become Pakistans annual tradition to peddle its fabricated rhetoric about Jammu and Kashmirs legitimate accession to India especially on the digital landscape. These fake narratives cannot withstand even a basic fact check. It is time that this disinformation campaign is called out and the facts around the events of 1947, which define and drive the regions relation with India, be reiterated.

As the Britishers ended their colonialism of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, it left behind two dominions: its natural successor, state of India, and newly created Pakistan, as envisaged under the Indian Independence Act of 1947. Given that there existed 565 Princely States at the time of Independence, they were given a choice to accede to either of these dominion states.

While most princely states made their decisions promptly, Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir faced a unique challenge. His state, contiguous to both India and Pakistan, had a predominantly Muslim population (nearly 80 per cent) along with a significant Hindu and Sikh populations. For two months, from August to October 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh maintained a somewhat ambivalent and neutral stance as both India and Pakistan lobbied for the states accession.

Ahead of the British exit, on 12 August 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh, through his Prime Minister Major Janak Singh, offered Standstill Agreements to both India and Pakistan. These agreements aimed to maintain the existing political status of princely states while granting them additional time to decide on their accession. Pakistans rulers accepted the agreement telegraphically two days later, on 14 August 1947, the same day it officially came into existence, thereby committing to maintaining the status quo until Maharaja Hari Singh made a decision regarding Jammu and Kashmir.

What is paramount here is that the Dominion of India did not sign a Standstill agreement with the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir. Moreover, the Pakistani rulers demonstrated a limited vision by its attempts to pressurise Maharaja Hari Singh to have J&K accede to their newly created religion-based entity. It was this impatience that led Pakistan to send Pashtun tribal lashkars, under its Operation Gulmarg overseen by Colonel Akbar Khan, into Kashmir on 22 October 22, 1947, thereby initiating a period of unimaginable horrors for the inhabitants of the region.

The Pakistani Army incited and organised Pashtun tribals for its unofficial invasion on the pretext of jihad in what they were made to believe was to liberate Muslims of J&K by propagating a fabricated narrative of Muslim prosecution by Maharajas infidel forces. In stark contrast to their very falsified claim of saving Kashmiri Muslims, these raiders unleashed unspeakable atrocities, including looting and sexual violence, along their march towards Srinagar, the capital of the princely State. It was this barbarism and violence perpetrated by the Pakistan sponsored tribal militias and military that compelled Maharaja Hari Singh to make an urgent appeal of military assistance from the Indian government on October 24, 1947.

Given the political uncertainty and the broader implications of sending military aid in the absence of a formal agreement, which could have construed as Indias military intervention in a neutral territory, the ruler of J&K signed the Instrument of Accession on 26 October 1947, thereby cementing the states fate with the Union of India. What is significant is that the Maharajas actions received substantial support from the largest political party of the state, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference led by Sheikh Abdullah, who fervently endorsed the accession. In wake of this agreement, New Delhi swiftly dispatched military aid on 27 October 1947, airlifting multiple army columns under the command of Lt. Col. Dewan Ranjit Rai, who pushed the raiders beyond Uri town in Baramulla district.

As evident from this historical account, it was the flawed vision of Pakistans founding leadership and their impatience that ultimately sealed the future of Jammu and Kashmir as an integral part of India. However, Pakistan state, which has since been under effective military control, has relentlessly continued its intervention and destabilisation tactics in J&K through its infiltration of proxy armed insurgents, that has left thousands of Kashmiris dead.

Therefore, as Jammu and Kashmir celebrates its Accession Day on 26 October, one should not lose sight of historical realities. Pakistan has been the perpetrator of violence against Kashmiris. The residents of Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir are victims of exploitation and a new kind of colonialism by the Pakistan military. Pakistans obsession with Jammu and Kashmir has become its undoing.

It is high time that Pakistan focuses on addressing its own socio-political and economic crisis, which has brought it to the cusp of a monumental financial, social and political collapse. That is the least Pakistan can do for Kashmiris whose names have been used by its military and state-sponsored actors to raise huge funds that were used for their personal gains.

The writer is an author and columnist and has written several books. He tweets @ArunAnandLive. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Indonesia, a key regional player in Southeast Asia, has become increasingly concerned about the growing influence of China and its assertive behaviour in the South China Sea. In response to these concerns, Indonesia has initiated a partnership with India to address shared challenges and strengthen their regional presence. The central element of this cooperation is the development of the Sabang Port, located near Indias Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a move that holds significant implications for the balance of power in the region.

Sabang Port project

Sabang Port, although an existing facility, is in need of substantial upgrades. India has expressed a keen interest in assisting Indonesia with this project and both countries have engaged in joint feasibility studies to assess the potential of the port. Sabang Ports strategic significance lies in its proximity to the Malacca Strait, a narrow sea route between Indonesia and Malaysia, which is a vital chokepoint for China.

Importance of Malacca Strait

China heavily relies on the Malacca Strait as a primary conduit for its energy imports with over 70 per cent of the crude oil used in China being imported in 2021. The strait serves as the shortest sea route linking West and East Asia, making it indispensable to Chinas energy supply. Consequently, the potential disruption of this vital route has been termed Chinas Malacca Dilemma, and any interruption in its access to this passage could seriously compromise its energy security.

Indias strategic opportunity

By gaining access to the Sabang Port, India has the opportunity to exploit Chinas vulnerability in the Malacca Strait. The development of this port would allow India to establish a strong presence in the region and potentially exert leverage over Chinas energy supplies. While the details of the feasibility study remain undisclosed, Indonesian officials have previously suggested that the port could serve both civilian and military purposes accommodating commercial vessels and submarines.

Historical context

The cooperation between India and Indonesia to develop Sabang Port is not a recent development. Discussions about Indian investment in the port date back to 2018, although the plans did not come to fruition at that time. However, renewed momentum and fresh proposals are now driving the project forward. In addition to the Sabang Port, India and Indonesia are exploring the possibility of new trade routes, enhanced air connectivity and even a connection between Port Blair in the Andaman Islands and Aceh in western Indonesia.

Indonesias delicate balancing act

Indonesias commitment to deepening its cooperation with India must be seen within the context of its complex relationship with China. While Indonesia has welcomed significant investments from China, it also faces territorial disputes in the South China Sea, particularly concerning the Natuna Islands. These disputes have led to military encounters and increased tensions. To counter Chinas maritime claims, Indonesia has bolstered its military presence and even encouraged local fishermen to challenge Chinas assertions by fishing in the disputed waters.

Indias growing influence in ASEAN

In recent years, India has taken a more proactive role in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), comprising ten Southeast Asian nations. This shift is a marked departure from Indias earlier hesitance to engage in the region. India is actively pursuing deeper defense partnerships with ASEAN countries and supplying weapons to South East Asia with Indonesia being a notable recipient. This approach strengthens Indias influence in the region and augments its ability to shape regional dynamics.

Joko Widodos diplomatic challenge

Indonesian president Joko Widodo is navigating a diplomatic tightrope in his approach to China. Last month, he hosted Chinese president Xi Jinping during which China pledged over $21 billion in new investments. Earlier in the year, President Xi promised investments close to $45 billion underlining Chinas financial influence. As Indonesia seeks to balance its economic interests with the territorial disputes in the South China Sea, President Widodos leadership faces increasing scrutiny. His decisions including the partnership with India demonstrate the complexity of maintaining a harmonious relationship with both China and regional allies.

Navigating a delicate diplomatic balance

The partnership between India and Indonesia with a focus on the development of Sabang Port underscores the evolving power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. As both countries collaborate to address their shared concerns about Chinas maritime ambitions, they are also contributing to the broader narrative of shifting alliances and strategic realignments in Southeast Asia. The development of Sabang Port with its potential to influence Chinas energy security stands as a testament to the intricate web of strategic interests that continues to shape the regions geopolitics. President Widodos diplomatic challenge highlights the complexities of managing Indonesias relations with both China and its regional allies as it seeks to secure its interests in the South China Sea.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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In Pakistan, a country grappling with economic instability, the contrasting priorities of its government have become starkly evident. On one hand, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the nations flag carrier, is grounded due to a lack of funds to buy fuel. On the other, the Pakistan Army continues to conduct missile tests, the latest being the Ghauri missile, despite facing a severe financial crisis.

The Ghauri missile: A closer look

The Ghauri missile, tested by Pakistans army recently, is a medium-range ballistic missile developed and tested in 1998. It has the capability to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads with a range of 1,300 to 1,500 kilometres. However, its important to note that the Ghauri missile is relatively old and its effectiveness on the battlefield is questionable. It relies on a convoy of support vehicles for fueling and launch preparations making it vulnerable to detection and attacks, a significant drawback in modern warfare.

Shift in focus to the Shaheen missile

The Pakistan Armys focus has shifted from the Ghauri missile to more advanced systems like the Shaheen missile. In fact, Pakistan has been conducting missile tests with a different missile called Ababeel, boasting a range of over 2,200 kilometres and the capability to carry multiple warheads. These advanced systems are essential for Pakistans deterrence strategy, particularly in light of Indias significant advancements in missile technology over the past two decades.

Financial imbalance: A nations struggle

Experts assert that Pakistan cannot compete with Indias missile capabilities. Hence, the Ababeel missile is a crucial component of Pakistans deterrence strategy. Testing and maintaining such advanced missile systems come at a considerable cost. This expense, however, does not deter Pakistan from prioritising its military strength, even as its economy teeters on the brink.

The price of misplaced priorities

Pakistans skewed priorities, favouring military advancements over its economic welfare, have dire consequences. The countrys national airline, PIA, is on the verge of collapse, having cancelled 322 flights in just 10 days due to a lack of fuel. Pakistans state oil company has cut off fuel supplies to PIA, demanding outstanding dues that the airline cannot afford. PIA has been operating at a deficit for several years with losses amounting to billions of dollars.

Privatisation as a solution

In an attempt to salvage the situation, the Pakistani government is pushing to privatise PIA. However, the dire state of the airline, marked by massive flight cancellations and financial losses, raises questions about whether there will be a viable entity left to privatise.

Continued missile tests amid economic turmoil

While PIA remains grounded, Pakistans missile tests continue. This incongruity highlights the misplaced priorities of the Pakistani government. Despite an ever-growing economic crisis, the military continues to channel vast resources into missile development, reinforcing the notion that national defence takes precedence over economic stability.

A non-existent threat from India

Pakistans relentless focus on an imagined external threat, particularly from India, has led to an arms race that is both unnecessary and financially crippling. The ramifications of these misplaced priorities are evident in the dire state of its economy with the nation teetering on the brink of financial collapse. Instead of correcting these errors, Pakistan appears to double down on its military ambitions, a decision that might further push the nation into financial turmoil.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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The ongoing conflict between China and Taiwan, a long-standing issue, has taken an unexpected twist with Foxconn, Taiwans multi-billion-dollar tech giant, becoming the latest casualty. China has opened investigations into the firm, and it will have implications politically given the broader context of Taiwans upcoming presidential elections.

Foxconn under investigation: The tax probe

China has launched a tax investigation into Foxconn, a company renowned for manufacturing iPhones, among other products and with substantial operations in China. The investigation centres on the land use at multiple Foxconn plants in the country raising concerns about the companys substantial presence and economic contributions.

Geopolitical context: Taiwan-China relations

To understand the motives behind this investigation, it is crucial to appreciate the fraught relationship between Taiwan and China. Taiwan is a self-governed island that has never been ruled by the Communist Party in Beijing. However, China considers Taiwan a wayward province and has repeatedly vowed to reunify it with the mainland, even if by force. This results in tensions that ebb and flow depending on the political dynamics in both Taiwan and China.

Current situation in Taiwan

Taiwans political landscape is currently led by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which advocates for Taiwans formal independence from mainland China. This stance has not been well received by Beijing, which has been consistently pressuring Taiwan, cutting off government-to-government talks and actively supporting the DPPs opponents in elections.

Taiwans upcoming presidential elections

Taiwan is set to hold presidential elections and the leading candidate is Vice President Lai Ching-te, a member of the DPP. Chinas goal is clear: it wants to ensure that the DPP candidate does not come to power. By supporting the opposition party, the Kuomintang, which is seen as more conciliatory towards Beijing, China aims to weaken the DPPs chances in the upcoming elections.

During an election, China does not need to put pressure on Taiwanese companies, demanding they declare a position, or even that they directly support a candidate they prefer, because this is a behaviour where both sides can only lose, said Taiwan vice president Lai Ching-Te.

Terry Gou and Chinas interests

Terry Gou, the founder of Foxconn, is a key player in this political puzzle. In the 2020 elections, he attempted to run on a Kuomintang ticket but failed. In the current election cycle, he is running as an independent candidate, creating a potential problem for Beijing. Gous candidacy could split the opposition vote and boost the ruling DPPs chances of victory, which China considers a worst-case scenario.

Pressure on Foxconn to influence the elections

With Gous solo candidacy posing a significant challenge to Chinas preferred political outcome, Beijing has put pressure on Foxconn to convince Gou to withdraw from the presidential race. This is not mere speculation; Chinas state-controlled media, The Global Times, has inadvertently confirmed this effort, stating that the Foxconn investigation could impact Taiwans elections.

Repercussions for Foxconn

The investigation into Foxconn has had financial repercussions, with the companys shares losing over 5 per cent of their value in just two days. This has translated into substantial financial losses for Terry Gou. As a result, Gou has chosen to keep a low profile until the storm blows over.

The Oppositions cautious stance

The opposition Kuomintang party has been notably quiet, likely recognising the potential backlash associated with aligning too closely with Beijing. Past experiences have shown that being perceived as pro-Beijing can be detrimental in Taiwans elections and the party is keen to avoid a third consecutive loss.

The Foxconn investigation in China is not merely a matter of routine tax inspections. It is a political move aimed at influencing Taiwans upcoming presidential elections with China using its economic leverage to shape the political landscape. As the election date approaches, all eyes will be on Taiwan to see how these geopolitical tensions play out and whether Foxconn will emerge unscathed from this political storm.

Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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Away from the theatre of the Israel-Hamas war in West Asia and far away from Canada whose governments soft stand towards the Khalistanis is troubling India, a new development in Bhutans foreign relations has become Indias latest worry due to its far-reaching implications for Indias security. Bhutan, a small Kingdom tucked away in the lap of the mighty Himalayas has been taking baby steps towards global outreach for a long time now. It once was known for its closed approach to global politics where it did not even maintain diplomatic relations with the permanent five countries of the UN Security Council. Its stand was informed by a need to stay clear from power politics as Bhutan remained introverted and closed to the world around it. But all that had started to change in the recent years. Since the beginning of the current century, Bhutan has been focussing on forging new diplomatic connections. By 2013, it had managed to establish a diplomatic relationship with as many as 53 countries. Among all the new foreign relations that Bhutan is sealing, its equation with China is agonising India a lot.

Early this week, Bhutans foreign minister Tandi Dorji visited Beijing. There he met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi as well as Vice President of China Han Zheng. The visit was focussed on boundary talks between the two countries and also saw the signing of an agreement over the functioning of a Joint Technical Team for the same. Both countries also agreed to expedite the boundary demarcation process as well as establish formal diplomatic ties with each other. The settlement of the boundary issue between Bhutan and China will leave India as the only country out of Chinas 12 neighbours with which Beijing has still not settled the boundary dispute. The possible establishment of diplomatic relations between Bhutan and China is also a worrying signal for India but it is the boundary dispute settlement that will have the most far-reaching implications for Indian security.

The boundary dispute between Bhutan and China goes back to the 1950s when China annexed Tibet and both countries became immediate neighbours. Unlike the relationship between autonomous Tibet and Bhutan where the border was not demarcated, China never agreed to the boundary that it inherited after its annexation of Tibet. It in fact seized control of eight Bhutanese conclaves in Tibet during its military campaign in 1959. Due to Chinas belligerence and its tendency to acquire territory by force, Bhutan severed its ties with China-controlled Tibet and maintained a very sharp distance from Beijing diplomatically. Mao Zedongs foreign policy strategy of considering Bhutan along with Nepal as one of the five fingers of Tibet, Chinas right-hand palm was like a nightmare for the Bhutanese. Since then, China has conducted multiple incursions into Bhutans territories including in 1967, 1979, 1983 and 2017. China claims around 764 sq km of Bhutanese territory in the northern and western areas. This includes Jakarlung and Pasamlung areas in north Bhutan and the Doklam plateau in Western Bhutan.

Chinas pressurising tactics of using military force and publishing maps with outrageous claims had been able to bring Bhutan to the negotiating table in the past. The two countries started negotiating the border dispute on an annual basis in 1984. They also signed an agreement to maintain peace at the border in 1998. Since 1984, they have held 24 rounds of boundary talks and the one that was held earlier this week marks the 25th round of boundary talks between them.

Now the question is that if boundary talks are progressing at a fast pace between China and Bhutan then why does it worry India so much? Well, the entire bone of contention is the Doklam plateau. Doklam area is a trijunction point between India, China and Bhutan. It is a part of the Bhutanese territory but China claims it as an extension of its Chumbi Valley. China has made multiple claims on the area and in 2017, it even started construction of a road in the mountainous region. It was attempting to create infrastructure in the region in order to usurp the territory during border settlement at a later date. In fact, satellite imagery has proven how China created high-tech villages in the area. Indias worries regarding China acquiring control of Doklam stems from the fact that this plateau overlooks the strategic Siliguri corridor also known as the Chickens Neck which not only connects mainland India to its own northeastern states but also serves as an important international gateway by linking India with countries such as Myanmar and even Tibet. It was for this reason that India immediately pressed its military into action in 2017 in order to retaliate against Chinas act of constructing a road in the area. The resultant stand-off had lasted for more than 70 days with India being successful in thwarting China from constructing the road.

This time, however, Indias tensions are even more profound. Chinas pressurising tactics have left little choice for Bhutan. In 2020, China sprung a surprise when it made an entirely new claim out of the blue over the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary situated in Eastern Bhutan. It was an attempt by China to put more pressure on Bhutan to admit the claims that China is making under the usual boundary dispute. Indias key worry is that China may push Bhutan so much to the edge that it will be forced to accept a swap deal where China will relinquish its claims in the north in exchange for control over the Doklam plateau. A precedent for this actually exists because in 1998, China had made a similar offer to Bhutan which it had not accepted at that time. It is interesting to note that Beijing is keen to settle the boundary dispute with Bhutan but it has not shown a similar zeal towards settling its boundary dispute with India. This shows that the entire plan of China is to keep India on tenterhooks. Firstly, Beijing doesnt want to deliberately delay settling of boundary dispute with India because a settled boundary will provide India with much relief and free up its energy to focus on its rise.

In contrast, an unsettled boundary will keep a check on Indias power. Secondly, any settlement of the boundary issue with Bhutan which involves China getting control over Doklam will be the best blessing for Beijing against India in this century. It will end up making India severely vulnerable by threatening its access to its own northeast in the situation of a military conflict. It is in this context that any development in Bhutan-China relations must be observed. Although India consistently points towards a 2012 understanding reached between China and India that the Bhutan-China boundary dispute will not include discussions over Doklam. Provided Chinas record of honouring agreements that it has signed up for in the past, India has all the reasons to be concerned about the direction which Bhutan-China boundary negotiation will take.

The author is a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University. She writes on Indias foreign policy. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.

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After Hamas horrendous and barbaric attack on Israel, butchering civilians, several questions arise about their modus operandi, intelligence gathering, preparation, and the intelligence failure of Israels mighty security apparatus involving Mossad, Shin Bet, and the IDF. Though the brutal terror attack has taken place in Israel, its repercussions can be felt in India in the form of the massive support shown by some sections of Indian society for the Palestinian cause and the Hamas terrorist attack. Delving deeper into the causal dynamics of this reaction can be the subject matter of a detailed essay tracing its historical roots. However, for now, the situation begets a question: How safe are we, Indians?

Imagine, if one fine morning, we get up to witness hundreds of terrorists flying into the Indian territory on gliders and parachutes or a team of fidayeen go on a shooting spree, killing civilians? In another scenario, what if a bunch of 30 to 40 fidayeen explodes themselves in crowded areas simultaneously in multiple locations or the terrorist groups decide to drop bombs on civilians from the drones? To make the situation worse, what if this is accompanied by massive stone pelting, violent protests, civil unrest, and communal riots in Kashmir and in the Indian hinterland?

Trained foreign terrorists infiltrating into India will act as main coordinators, masterminds, and planners. In this devastation, the disguised sleeper cells will provide timely intelligence. Violent mobs will have the police stations as their first targets from where they will run away with weapons. After the first lethal terror attack followed by communal rioting, by the time the government reacted, thousands of civilians would already have died. Finally, when the state security forces were deployed and took heavy measures including killing the rioters, the well-coordinated global anti-India propaganda war would have put immense pressure on India. Inimical adversaries like China, Turkey, Pakistan, and in this case, the OIC countries and even the left-liberal NGOs, politicians, media houses, journalists, and intellectuals will make huge noise and corner India internationally.

How close are we as a society and country to such a scenario? What is the likelihood of such large-scale terror attacks combined with violent protests and communal riots happening in different parts of the country? And, finally, how prepared are we as a society and state to deal with such a crisis? While conducting a threat analysis like this, it is imperative to consider three factors: The mindset, intent, and capabilities of the actors.

The mindset and the intent

Beginning with the mindset and intent, I reason that currently, India is going through intense Jihadi radicalisation, particularly among the youth. Several NIA and home ministry reports have highlighted the alarming levels of radicalisation. Though the phenomenon is not new, lately, with the onset of global jihad and online radicalisation, it has acquired alarming proportions. As I have already mentioned in detail in my book, Radicalisation in India: An Exploration (Pentagon 2019) various extremist schools like the Deobandis, Wahhabis, and Jamaat-e-Islami have a long history in the Indian subcontinent. India has had an extremely chequered history of Hindu-Muslim relations since the beginning of Arab invasions. Charting out the details of Hindu-Muslim frictions, animosity and riots is not the main focus of this article; however, suffice it to mention that due to communal hatred, India has already gone through one partition. Even post-partition India has witnessed massive communal riots in almost every part of the country. After the onset of global jihad, Babri mosque demolition, the Hindu-Muslim dynamics took an uglier turn and terrorism emerged as a major threat to India. In Kashmir, Pakistan has already run a proxy insurgency and an intensive radicalisation program for the last three decades which has resulted in the near-total destruction of the secular foundations and communal harmony. Likewise, in the Indian hinterland, post-1990, Islamic radicalisation has been on the upswing. The decade of the 2000s saw a spate of bomb blasts across the country.

After Modis rise to power, appeasement politics ended and the national security approach towards terrorism became very firm. The result was seen in the form of NIAs crackdown on terror funding modules, neutralisation and banning of organisations like PFI and Jamaat-e-Islami, demonetisation, CAA/NRC, and the abrogation of Article 370. Extremist clerics like Zakir Naik who nearly enjoyed state patronage before 2014, had to flee India after 2014. Likewise, in the foreign policy domain also, the Modi government displayed a marked shift from the established patterns. With Pakistan, the new approach dictated that terror and talks cannot go together. In addition, the Modi government gave a befitting reply to terror attacks through surgical strikes and Balakot airstrikes deep inside the Pakistani territory. On the question of Israel-Palestine, under the Modi government, India has come much closer to Israel, shedding its past inhibitions. As a result, Indias support of Palestine has remained a mere superficial formality lacking any depth. The message relayed by the state was that in post-2014 India there was no place for appeasement politics, radicalisation, terrorism, and extremism, internally and externally, and all the citizens would have to abide by the constitution.

However, some radical and extremist clerics who held immense clout in previous governments lost their influence, perks, and privileges. The above-mentioned actions infuriated some sections of the society. Their tilt towards extremism has manifested on various occasions. Many people celebrated the Taliban victory, likewise they support Palestine and reportedly justify Hamas terror attacks. Notably, as per this authors informed interlocutors, the Taliban victory and the successful Hamas attack have given Pakistan, the terrorist groups, and extremist elements a template to be copied. Ashraf Nawabi (name changed), a Shia cleric and the authors source in Kashmir informed that though there is silence in Kashmir now, there is a simmering discontentment. Further, he said that after Taliban and Hamas victories, the Kashmiris feel motivated to launch a full-scale and multi-faceted attack against the Indian establishment, backed by the Pakistan-sponsored terror groups, instead of old-style stone pelting and civilian protests. Also, as per his testimony, the terrorist commanders and Jamaat stalwarts stated that when Hamas without the backing of any nuclear-armed state could inflict such massive damage to a state as powerful as Israel, supported by the full American might, then imagine what could happen to India if nuclear-armed Pakistan decides to go for such massive attack against India. Further, The NIA raids conducted on the PFI premises unearthed their internal documents such as Vision 2047 to make India an Islamic country. The countrywide violent reactions against CAA/NRC, and likely future measures like UCC and population control bill, Shaheen Bagh riots in Delhi during Trumps visit (2019), a violent protest against Nupur Sharma and numerous blasphemy killings in remote places like Udaipur amply demonstrate the alarming scales of radicalisation.

The capabilities and preparations

First and foremost, the capabilities of terror groups need to be analysed. Over the last three decades, Pakistan has created a highly refined and sophisticated anti-India Islamic terror infrastructure. This Pakistan-supported complex and layered terror infrastructure include terrorist groups, a well-networked and masked terror financing system, extremist Islamic organisations like PFI and Jamaat-i-Islami engaging in intense religious radicalisation in the name of charity, welfare and religious work, a robust network of Over-Ground Workers, media warriors, propaganda warriors and international civil society activists. In addition, it also includes a deep-rooted network of spies and sleeper cells in various parts of India.

Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, and Hizbul Mujahideen are the three main terror groups backed by Pakistans intelligence. In addition, there is a barrage of some less-known groups or the proxies of the above-mentioned three main groups, such as Ansar-Ghazwat-ul-Hind, ISJK, TRF, Kashmir Tigers, Allah Tigers, Peoples Anti-Fascist Front, United Liberation Front, etc. In the Indian hinterland, Pakistan, in the past, has nurtured groups like Indian Mujahideen (IM). Though the IM was liquidated, its remnants continue to thrive in the form of PFI. Groups like Jaish and Lashkar have done terror strikes beyond Kashmir and have proven their capabilities to execute a lethal terror operation in any part of the country. Some of those include the parliament attack in New Delhi, the 26/11 attack in Mumbai, the Akshardham attack (Ahmedabad), bomb blasts in a German bakery (Pune), Bangalore, Jaipur, Varanasi, etc.

Recent reports suggest that Lashkar purchased gliders as early as 2010. Sayed Zabiuddin Ansari, a Lashkar operative from Beed (Maharashtra) who also handled one of the terrorists involved in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, informed his interrogators that during his visit to a Lashkar camp, he saw 50 gliders that LeT had purchased from Europe to use in terror attacks against India. Reportedly, Jaish has also purchased gliders in the last 2-3 years and has been practicing with them in the Shakargarh border area which incidentally is also its favorite infiltration point. In the past, Jaish had also tried to build an airfield in South Punjab. Further, regarding drones, it is well established that over the last few years, terrorists have majorly used drones to smuggle weapons and drugs into India. In June 2021, two drones dropped explosives on the technical area of the Air Force station in Jammu, a silent indicator of the terror groups intent and improvising capabilities to use drones in terror attacks. In 2022, the BSF reported the sightings of 268 drones on the international border with Pakistan, which was about a 100 per cent increase in drone sightings since 2021. Notably, Pakistan has massively bought drones from its close ally Turkey, a drone superpower. The Turkey-Pakistan-Azerbaijan axis already tested the effectiveness of drones against the Armenian forces, reducing their tanks to rubble.

As regards the other capabilities in asymmetric warfare, there are ample examples. The Pak-supported terror groups have robust sleeper cells in almost every corner of India. They have successfully used sea routes on the Mumbai coast and Gujarat coast (Harami nullah) to cross into India and perpetrate large-scale terror attacks. In the Southern part of India, Pakistani intelligence has made massive inroads in the local extremist organizations like the PFI. Further, in southern Indian states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala global Islamist organisations like Al Qaeda and IS have found a strong foothold, which is evident in a significant number of individuals from these states joining IS fighters in Syria and Afghanistan. In parallel, extremist religious organisations like Tamil Nadu Tauhid Jamaat have come up that mobilise local Muslims on global jihadist issues, peddle the narrative of victimhood, and engage in radicalisation of Muslims. In other parts, the Pakistani intelligence has cultivated ties with the local insurgent groups like ULFA, Naxalites, and the Islamic terrorist groups of Bangladesh like HuJI. Besides, Rohingya Muslims have been settling at a rapid pace in different parts of the country which are home to sleeper cells and can play a critical role in providing logistics and auxiliary support in orchestrating a large-scale-terror attack. Alongside, in the field of staging nationwide protests and civil unrest and the international anti-India propaganda war, the capabilities were more than evident in running hundreds of Shaheen Bagh-styled demonstrations, social media campaigns, and communal riots in response to Nupur Sharmas alleged blasphemy, and international information war against India in Nupur Sharma case and against the CAA/NRC. Further, PFIs Vision 2047 openly states that even if 10 per cent of Muslims of India support them, they will be able to make India an Islamic country by 2047. Their leaders in their communal gatherings shamelessly exhort the Muslim youth to join police, civil services, and administration with the intent of capturing them and ultimately Islamising India.

Finally, coming to the procurement of weapons and explosives, it must be mentioned that Jaish could assemble 350 kg of explosives for the Pulwama and Pathankot fidayeen attacks in India. More recently, they have been smuggling hundreds of advanced weapons including Turkish Zigana pistols, etc. through drones. Also, as per the authors interlocutors, the terror groups are also exploring new domains like chemical weapons, biological weapons, rockets, and wifi-operated bombs.

Meanwhile, major demographic changes have taken place in several districts of Assam, Bengal, and Gujarat. Reportedly, immigrant colonies are being created around the Chicken Neck in the North East, purportedly to increase Indias vulnerability during crisis situations. Rohingyas and Bangladeshi immigrants are taken to different parts of India as tourists and are made to settle there and colonise the area. As per the authors informed interlocutors, the above-mentioned activities are being done at the behest of PFI, in a planned manner to facilitate the Islamic domination of India and threaten its national security. No wonder, PFI has made deep inroads in remote districts of Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, and other northern states.

How prepared are we as a state and society?

A fair estimate of our societal strength and resilience against Islamic extremism comes from basic observations in the Nupur Sharma case. Following her alleged blasphemous remarks about Mohammad, revered as Prophet by Muslims, several violent riots, protests, and stone pelting took place in various parts of the country including Kolkata, Prayagraj, Delhi, Ranchi, etc. Also, several murders followed including the most brutal and gruesome murders of tailor Kanhaiyalal in Udaipur and a chemist named Umesh Kolhe in Maharashtra. The Islamist lobbies carried a well-planned international propaganda in which India faced heavy backlash from Muslim-majority nations like Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Bahrain, Indonesia, Oman, Iraq, etc. Before this episode, Islamic fanatics murdered Kamlesh Tiwari, the Hindu Sabha leader for his comments against Mohammad, the Islamic Prophet.

Ideally, in reaction to those brutal murders most of the Indian politicians, particularly the chiefs of Hindu right-wing organisations, Hindu religious and spiritual leaders, and all the rational-minded educated citizens, intellectuals, and organizations of India were expected to support Nupur Sharmas rights to free speech and bitterly oppose medieval and barbaric concepts of blasphemy. However, none of the aforementioned entities spoke a single word in Nupur Sharmas support. They retracted from their social media campaigns and comments on blasphemy. India, a country with a population of 1.42 billion, fifth largest economy, and fourth largest military power succumbed to a false and fabricated propaganda war run by a terror-sponsoring country like Qatar. Notably, Qatar finances terror groups like Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas, and holds an anti-India position on Kashmir issue.

This example speaks volumes of our weakness as a society and how punctured our commitment and determination are against extremism and terrorism. Adding further to this embarrassment is the fact that absconding terrorist-motivator extremist preacher Zakir Naik, during his India stay, bitterly criticised and mocked Hindu gods, against which there was neither societal reaction nor any state action.

Secondly, the fact that Pakistan-based Dawat-e-Islami, an extremist organisation could inspire a fanatic Mohammad Riyaz in the remote sleepy town of Udaipur, situated more than 1000 km away from Dawat-e-Islami headquarters in Pakistan, shows how deeply entrenched their sleeper cells are in the smaller cities of India, leave aside the big metros. On top of this the most embarrassing part is that when Kanhaiya Lal approached the police and administrative officials in the Congress-ruled Rajasthan, they insulted and ignored him instead of providing any security. They had absolutely no clue of how serious the threat was.

The state intelligence was caught unaware of the presence and penetration of extremist organisations like Dawat-e-Islami and others in Udaipur. It is indeed telling on the part of the Indian intelligence set-up, particularly the state intelligence agencies that their awareness and competence in counter-terrorism is appalling. Mostly police officers, attuned to law-and-order duties are given punishment postings either for incompetence, corruption, or due to bad political equations, in the state intelligence agencies. The technological know-how, skills, equipment, and budget are in shambles. Even senior IPS officers dealing with intelligence affairs have been found lacking sufficient understanding and knowledge of extremism, radicalisation, terrorist operations, terror finding, online radicalisation, etc. During the Kanhaiyalal murder investigation, it came out hundreds of closed WhatsApp groups were active in Udaipur, engaged in indoctrination and radicalising the local youth. However, the local intelligence agencies had no clue about them.

In the operations domain, the central intelligence agencies, the Indian Army, and the NIA have made some remarkable progress. However, there are limitations. The NIA is an investigation agency that comes into action mostly after a terrorist attack has taken place. The IPS-dominated central intelligence agencies are in dire need of comprehensive intelligence reforms. This author has discussed at length the need for intelligence reforms in one of his previous articles. Indian Army has emerged as an excellent counter-insurgency force; however, in most of the states, the frontline combatants will be from the local police. Their morale, training, integrity, skills, knowledge, weapons handling, and physical fitness are in pathetic shape. They will find it extremely challenging to deal with highly trained cadres of Lashkar, Jaish, IS, and AQIS. The terrorist cadres go through tough physical training cyberlearning, weapons, and explosives handling curriculum which the state-level Indian police forces will not be able to counter. In the field of information and propaganda warfare capabilities also, Indian agencies lag far behind countries like Israel. Further, being a democratic country, we are bound to respect human rights and be restrained in many other ways too. In case of massive riots, stone pelting, and civil unrest facilitating terror attacks the state response will have to be measured and calibrated. Indias limitations were clearly evident when Islamic extremists were rioting in Delhi during Trumps visit in 2019. Likewise, in a democratic country, extremist organisations like PFI and Jamaat function as religious and cultural organisations engaging in religious, cultural, and charity work. As a result, they enjoy a lot of privileges and protections so any crackdown on them through proper legal methods is extremely challenging.

Further compounding the roadblocks is the corruption among the police, administration, and political establishments. Reportedly, the Pathankot air base attackers (2016) bribed the local police. Even during the Kanhaiya Lal murder case, the local police hierarchy allegedly indulged in money minting through illegal smuggling of alcohol. With such questionable integrity, it will not be difficult for terror groups to establish sleeper cells, buy local SIM, rations cards, and Aadhar cards, and smuggle weapons and explosives. For politicians, appeasement politics still holds a superior position vis-a-vis national security. Several opposition leaders tried to embarrass and humiliate the central government by doubting the official claims of surgical strikes and Balakot strikes. Appeasement of extremist leaders during communal riots, and lack of action against illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya settlers and extremist clerics are rampant in several states, to attract minority votes. However, such attitudes are demoralising for the society, administrative and police cadre, and the prices are paid by the common people in the event of a major fidayeen attack, communal riot, or a bomb blast.

Lastly, it must be pointed out that India may be able to run an effective counter operation after such a massive terror attack, but we need a major effort on the intelligence front to prevent it from happening. Also, Pakistan being a nuclear-armed state our response options will be much more restrained as compared to those of Israel. And, if there is a simultaneous civil unrest or mass uprising in a place like Kashmir then it will be extremely challenging to contain the situation internally also.

In the light of the analysis done in this paper, it is reasonable to conclude that India stands only a step away from a Hamas-styled massive terror attack, and to thwart and prevent it New Delhi needs to put in a humongous effort in intelligence, counter-terrorism, and policing capabilities.
Cupertino, California  Apple released the highly-anticipated iOS 17.1 update for supported iPhones, bringing a range of new features and addressing specific concerns. Although the release arrived one day later than rumoured, it didnt disappoint eager Apple users.

The new devices that will get be getting are the iPhone XR, XS Series, iPhone 11series, iPhone 12 series, iPhone 13series, iPhone 14 series, iPhone 15 series and the 2nd and 3rd Gen iPhone SE

Here are just some of the new features that the new iOS 17.1 brings

Enhanced AirDrop Capabilities

A standout feature in iOS 17.1 is the enhanced AirDrop capabilities. Users can now continue large file transfers over the internet, even when out of AirDrop range, providing a more seamless experience when sharing files.

Apple Music Upgrades

The Apple Music app now allows users to favourite songs, albums, and playlists with a simple tap on a star icon. Furthermore, Apple Music offers personalized song suggestions at the end of playlists, helping users discover new music tailored to their preferences.

Addressing Radio Frequency Concerns

iOS 17.1 also addresses concerns raised by Frances National Frequency Agency regarding the iPhone 12. The agency had noted that the iPhone 12 exceeded European-specific absorption rate limits. With this update, Apple has adjusted the iPhone 12s power levels when in an off-body state on a static surface, ensuring compliance with specific test protocols and safety standards.

New StandBy Mode Settings

Another noteworthy addition to iOS 17.1 is the expanded StandBy mode settings. Users now have the flexibility to customize when StandBy mode activates, with options including off after 20 seconds, never, and automatically. This feature is particularly beneficial for iPhone users with always-on displays.

Live Activities Flashlight Symbol

In response to a common issue, iOS 17.1 introduces a small yet helpful feature: a flashlight symbol appears in the Live Activities feed when the flashlight is active, making it easier for users to detect when the flashlight is unintentionally turned on. However, its important to note that some of these features, such as the new StandBy mode settings and the Live Activities flashlight symbol, may be exclusive to specific iPhone models with always-on displays.

Issues and Bugs

While iOS 17.1 introduces numerous improvements, its not without its quirks. Some users have reported issues, including problems with the spacing of the Apple Music app widget and screen flickering on the iPhone 12 Pro. Additionally, there have been reports of CarPlay volume issues after updating to iOS 17.1, with some users experiencing significantly lower volume levels.

As Apple users explore the new features and continue to provide feedback, the company is expected to address these issues in future updates.
Elon Musk had to delve deep into his accounts last year to secure a gigantic amount for the acquisition of the social media platform now known as X. In order to secure the funding for the acquisition, tech magnate found himself in need of a staggering $13 billion in loans from seven prominent banks to assemble the substantial purchase price of $44 billion, nearly a year ago.

Unfortunately, the aftermath of this ambitious acquisition has left these financial institutions reeling, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, attributing the platforms declining value over the past 12 months to Musks leadership.

Struggling to unload the debt

The financial figures are nothing short of astonishing. The seven banks involved in the deal, including major names such as Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, and Barclays, now face the prospect of enduring losses of at least 15 per cent, totalling around $2 billion at least, just for this year.

This ill-fated wager on the worlds wealthiest individual has seemingly backfired in a spectacular fashion.

These banks had initially hoped to divest themselves of the debt by Labor Day, but the situation has not played out as anticipated. Instead, they are now preparing to offload portions of this financial burden, according to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal.

To compound their woes, if Musks social media platform receives a low credit rating, the banks may encounter even greater difficulty in shedding this financial load.

In essence, the longer they hold onto this debt, the more precarious the situation becomes, and regulators may intensify their scrutiny of the banks.

Hung deal

As outlined by the Wall Street Journal, the debt associated with Xs acquisition is currently one of the most extensive and long-lasting hung deals. Such arrangements often result in banks incurring significant losses when financing acquisitions fail to yield the anticipated returns.

In the midst of this financial turmoil, Musks seemingly incongruent decisions, including rebranding Twitter as X, tolerating the dissemination of misinformation, and implementing widespread layoffs, have prompted advertisers to withdraw, causing substantial deficits on the companys balance sheets.

Resolute in the face of adversity

A recent study by marketing consultancy Ebiquity found that the vast majority of the platforms largest advertising spenders have ceased advertising on it following Musks takeover.

Despite the bleak outlook, Musk and CEO Linda Yaccarino remain resolute in their belief that X will turn a profit as early as next year.

One certainty remains: the banks are undoubtedly hoping that their faith in this optimism is not misplaced.
Generative AI has dominated the headlines throughout the year, with numerous companies investing substantially in the area and a watershed moment in this trajectory occurred with the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI in November 2022.

OpenAIs GPT set the stage for significant advancements in AI across various sectors. However, despite the widespread enthusiasm for GPT and generative AI, Microsoft founder Bill Gates has voiced reservations, suggesting that this technology may have reached a plateau.

ChatGPT has plateaued, believes Gates

In an interview with the German business newspaper Handelsblatt, the 67-year-old tech luminary discussed his concerns about the trajectory of generative AI. He acknowledged that there are compelling reasons to believe that the current state of GPT technology has hit a plateau. Gates, however, admitted that he could be mistaken in his assessment.

His perspective diverges from OpenAIs, as he sees limitations in the development of GPT-5, contrary to the optimism of OpenAI.

Gates characterized the leap from GPT-2 to GPT-4 as incredible in terms of progress. He also offered predictions about the near future, suggesting that in the next two to five years, AI softwares accuracy will substantially improve while costs decrease.

This, he believes, will pave the way for the creation of novel and dependable applications. Nevertheless, Gates anticipates an initial stagnation in development, particularly with GPT-4, where he sees a technological limit that GPT-5 may not surpass.

AI is set to get more reliable, not more feature-rich than it is today

However, Gates remains optimistic about the short-term potential of AI. He envisions that ongoing research will render AI more reliable and understandable. Additionally, he foresees that developing nations will significantly benefit from AI, offering the example of health advice delivered via smartphones.

Addressing the cost and reliability of AI, Gates acknowledged that some AI chips from Nvidia can be exorbitantly priced at around $30,000 per unit, boasting substantial computing power and energy consumption. He remarked on the expense of training large language models but noted that the actual usage costs have reduced over time.

Gates also expressed his belief in AIs potential to revolutionize healthcare. He highlighted AIs capacity to expedite drug and vaccine development, notwithstanding existing concerns about reliability.

No one knows how AGI will pan out

Furthermore, Gates delved into the concept of the AI black box and the importance of unravelling how AI encrypts information. He mentioned ongoing efforts by many individuals and organizations to demystify this aspect of AI.

On the topic of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), Gates asserted that the arrival of AGI remains uncertain and could represent a profound development for humanity.

Finally, Gates shared his insights into how AI can play a pivotal role in mitigating climate change. He emphasized that climate models are continually improving and touted the potential for new crop varieties that can thrive in high-temperature conditions.

Gates revealed his investments in nearly 100 companies dedicated to enhancing the power grid with AI technology, underlining his commitment to addressing pressing global challenges.
Imagine you are watching one of the most vital rocket launches in your lifetime, when all of a sudden, you hear a very annoying voice, saying, This rocket launch is brought to you by, all the while the video pans to the logo of a brand. In Russia, this may soon be a reality.

Russian lawmakers are exploring an unconventional revenue source for the countrys space agency, Roscosmos.

In a groundbreaking move, a group of senators and State Duma deputies have proposed a new bill that would allow brands to adorn the sides of space rockets with their ads. This innovative endeavour, they claim, has the potential to generate a staggering 200 million rubles or approximately $2.1 million in income for the Russian space agency.

The legislation, introduced in the State Duma on Monday, seeks to open the door to advertising campaigns closely tied to ongoing space programs. Proponents argue that this initiative will serve multiple purposes.

Not only will it help popularise space activities, but it will also draw young talent into the space industry while generating much-needed funds for the development of groundbreaking space projects.

If the bill is enacted, outdoor advertising could grace various space infrastructure objects, and the income generated would be divided equally between the Russian federal budget and the state corporation, Roscosmos.

Sergei Volkov, the head of the Department for Coordination and Management of Research and Development of Launch Vehicles at Roscosmos Progress Rocket and Space Center (RSC), revealed ongoing efforts to secure contracts for advertising on rockets.

Volkov stated that certain areas on spacecraft are being designated for commercial purposes, with potential revenue streams on the horizon, as reported by TASS.

This endeavour is not entirely new, as there was one previous instance where advertising was permitted on a space vehicle. The Soyuz rocket, launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome, bore the logo of Sberbank, a prominent financial institution. The banks CEO, Herman Gref, had sought permission from the former head of Roscosmos, Dmitry Rogozin, to commemorate the banks 180th anniversary with this unique advertisement.

This bold move to commercialise the assets of their space agency opens up new possibilities for funding space exploration in Russia, drawing attention to the infinite possibilities that lie beyond Earths atmosphere.
The eagerly awaited executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) from the Biden administration is set to be unveiled next week, and it promises to bring substantial changes to the AI landscape in the United States. According to sources with insights into the matter, this groundbreaking order is scheduled for signing and release on Monday.

The Washington Post reported that the executive order is anticipated to mandate that advanced AI models undergo rigorous evaluations prior to their use by federal personnel.

Furthermore, it seeks to streamline the immigration process for highly skilled individuals desiring entry into the United States, with the overarching aim of enhancing the nations technological competitiveness.

This announcement is strategically timed, as it precedes a significant international summit in Britain where government leaders, top Silicon Valley executives, and civil society groups will convene to discuss the potential societal risks associated with AI. The administration is gearing up for the release of the order two days prior to this event.

The comprehensive executive order capitalizes on the US governments role as a major technology consumer by instituting assessments for advanced AI models before their deployment in federal agencies.

These evaluations are expected to be central to ensuring the safe and effective utilization of AI by federal workers. Discussions about the order have involved various stakeholders who emphasize the necessity of improving national cyber defenses.

Additionally, the order includes provisions that will reduce immigration barriers for highly skilled workers, a strategic move aimed at bolstering the United States technological prominence.

The specific federal government agencies, such as the Defense Department, Energy Department, and intelligence agencies, will be mandated to assess how AI can be integrated into their operations, with a particular focus on enhancing national cybersecurity.

While the European Union and other governments are working on regulations to mitigate the risks associated with AI, the Biden administrations executive order is expected to provide a solid framework for AI governance within the United States.

European officials are working toward finalizing the EU AI Act, a comprehensive package designed to protect consumers from potential AI-related hazards, with a deal expected by year-end. Meanwhile, U.S. lawmakers are still in the early stages of developing bipartisan AI legislation.

Mondays executive order is anticipated to build upon a set of voluntary commitments inked by 15 major companies, including OpenAI, Google, Adobe, and Nvidia.

These agreements, brokered by the White House in September, require these firms to develop technology capable of identifying AI-generated content, and they pledge to share safety data with the government and academic institutions. This collaborative effort between the public and private sectors underscores the importance of responsible AI development and usage in the evolving landscape of technology and innovation.

(With input from agencies)
Terming the move to resume some visa services in the country from Thursday a good sign amid a diplomatic impasse, Canada has welcomed Indias decision, saying the resumption of visa processing is good news after an anxious time for many Canadians, amid a diplomatic row over the killing of a Sikh separatist.

Indias high commission in Canada said on Wednesday that the countrys officials will resume processing some types of visa applications for Canadians applying from across the country as well as abroad.

The decision came a month after New Delhi suspended the services in Canada and for Canadian citizens worldwide as tensions flared between the two nations last month following Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations of the potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 in British Columbia.

India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected Trudeaus allegations as absurd and motivated.

On Wednesday afternoon, Immigration Minister Marc Miller called Indias move a good sign after an anxious time for his many Canadians. Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place, he was quoted as saying by CTV News.

He said the really concerning diplomatic situation with India has created a lot of fear in a lot of communities.

Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan, who is also a Sikh, said the resumption of visa processing is good news, but wouldnt speculate on what message New Delhi is trying to send.

Its good to see that they have resumed that. It would have been nice (if) they didnt take it in the first place, Sajjan told reporters.

He said it was important that Indians and Canadians can go back and forth when it comes to events like weddings and funerals.

He added that Ottawa is still seeking Indias help as police investigate the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India will resume services for entry visas, business visas, medical visas and conference visas.

Marilyne Guevremont, a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada (GAC)  the department that manages the countrys diplomatic and consular relations, told CBC News that GAC is aware of the Indian governments decision to resume certain categories of visa processing for Canadians.

Canada and India share important people-to-people ties and Indias resumption of visa services will make it easier for families and businesses to travel between our countries, Guevremont.

In a statement, the Canada-India Business Council said it was a promising development for trade relations. It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times, wrote council head Victor Thomas.

The development came days after Canada pulled out 41 of its diplomats from India.

Before Trudeaus announcement dramatically heightened tensions between Canada and India, New Delhi had publicly denounced protests by Sikh separatist groups outside its diplomatic missions in Canada, as well as posters that appeared to offer cash rewards in exchange for the home addresses of Indian diplomats.

India formally called on Canada to better uphold its duty to protect foreign diplomats. India had also asked Canada to come down hard on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians.

With PTI inputs.
A resounding call to ban AR-15 rifles in the United States has gained momentum in the wake of a devastating mass shooting incident in Lewiston, Maine. The perpetrator, armed with an AR-15, mercilessly claimed the lives of at least 22 individuals and left dozens wounded on a fateful Tuesday night.

The AR-15 has left a trail of tragedy in its wake, being the weapon of choice in several horrifying massacres that have shocked the nation. Notable among these were the senseless murders of 10 individuals in a Buffalo grocery store and the heart-wrenching loss of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas.

The AR-15 first drew national attention when it was suspected to be the firearm used by the disturbed gunman, Adam Lanza, who perpetrated the infamous Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre in Connecticut in 2012. Lanzas weapon, an AR-15-style rifle manufactured by Remington and known as a Bushmaster, became synonymous with the urgent need for gun control.

Activists have since prominently featured images of the AR-15 to symbolize the imperative for stricter firearm regulations, contending that this assault rifle is a tool of war and has no place in civilian hands.

Prominent gun violence prevention activist, Shannon Watts, has repeatedly highlighted the ease of acquiring an AR-15, stating, Its harder to buy Sudafed than an AR-15 in Maine. Following the Lewiston tragedy, liberal pastor John Pavlovitz took to Facebook, equating the AR-15 with Republican symbols and urging a change in political leadership as a solution to gun violence.

The tragic event sparked a wave of public sentiment against the AR-15, with many expressing their frustrations on various platforms. The liberal lobby group, Stand for Better, criticized the perceived inaction of Speaker of The House Mike Johnson and the GOP, contrasting their priorities with a call to ban the AR-15.

Residents also held their elected representatives accountable for their stance on gun control. An irate Maine resident confronted Senator Susan Collins for her vote against an assault weapons ban, underscoring the ineffectiveness of entrusting individuals with such powerful weaponry.

The ensuing political discourse has seen both sides of the spectrum engaging in heated debates. Right-wing activist Laura Loomer suggested that the outrage from the left may be politically motivated, while conspiracy theorist Cindy Robinson speculated that Democrats could exploit the tragedy to advocate for stricter gun control.

While some states have taken steps to ban AR-15-style rifles, Washington State became the ninth Democrat-led state to do so in April 2023. Others, including California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Illinois, Delaware, and the District of Columbia, had already implemented similar bans. Interestingly, California, despite having such restrictions in place, still leads in the number of mass shootings.

Recent developments have added complexity to the issue, with a federal judge overturning Californias ban on assault rifles. Additionally, some Republicans have worn assault rifle pins during discussions on gun safety, with mixed reactions.

The Committee on Oversight and Reform voiced concerns about advertisements that glorify AR-15-style rifles, likening them to first-person shooter video games and military weaponry. These tactics have faced criticism, with Representative Carolyn Maloney denouncing them as exploitative and detrimental to public safety.

In response, gun manufacturers argued that the blame for gun homicides should be placed on the individuals wielding the weapons rather than the firearms themselves. Despite the surge in gun violence in 2020, recent statistics indicate a decline in many cities.
EU leaders were poised on Thursday to call for pauses in Israeli bombing and Hamas rocket attacks to get humanitarian aid into Gaza after days of wrangling that highlighted divisions within the bloc over the broader Israel-Palestinian conflict.

While EU leaders have strongly condemned Hamas attack on Israel, they have struggled to stick to the same message beyond that, with some stressing Israels right to self-defence and others emphasising concern about Palestinian civilians.

Those differences were on display again as leaders gathered in Brussels for their first in-person summit since the deadly Oct. 7 assault on Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas, which prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

Israel is a democratic state guided by very humanitarian principles and so we can be certain that the Israeli army will respect the rules that arise from international law in everything it does, said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. I have no doubt about that.

Scholzs remarks contrasted sharply with comments in recent days by EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Charles Michel, the chairman of EU leaders summits, who have said that a total blockade of Gaza and attacks on civilian infrastructure already contravene international law.

Rights groups such as Human Rights Watch have also accused Israel of violating international humanitarian law.

Israel insists it is acting within international law and that its attacks are intended to destroy Hamas, which operates among the civilian population.

Arriving at the summit, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo warned Israel against starving Gaza.

Israel has a right to take action and to prevent future attacks. But that is never an excuse for blocking a whole region, for blocking humanitarian aid. It cannot be an excuse to starve a population, he said.

Ahead of the summit, diplomats spent days debating whether to call for a humanitarian pause or pauses.

A draft intended as a final summit declaration includes the latter, expressing the leaders gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.

It calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses.

Countries such as France, the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Belgium and Ireland had endorsed calls from the United Nations for a break in the conflict for humanitarian reasons.

But others such as Germany, the Czech Republic and Austria resisted, arguing such a measure could curb Israels ability to defend itself and let Hamas regroup, according to diplomats.

The compromise on pauses in the plural was meant to signal short breaks in fighting for missions such as hostage releases or aid convoys, rather than a formal ceasefire, diplomats said.

While the EUs influence on the conflict is modest, the bloc fears that an escalation could have grave consequences for Europe, including a rise in tensions between communities, possible Islamist militant attacks and a flow of refugees.

The crisis erupted with the EU already grappling with the fallout from another war in its immediate neighborhood  the conflict triggered by Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will address the summit by video link and the EU leaders aim to show they will continue to support Ukraine even amidst another major crisis.

Some officials and diplomats have voiced fears that Ukraine may now struggle to get the same political attention and resources from the West, particularly the United States, due to the new crisis in the Middle East.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Thursday he hopes to sign a peace agreement with arch-foe Azerbaijan in the coming months, weeks after Baku recaptured Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic-Armenian separatists.

Yerevan and Baku have been locked in a decades-long conflict for control of Azerbaijans Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Baku took control of the mountainous region in September in a lightning 24-hour offensive that ended decades of pro-Armenian separatist rule.

We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months, Pashinyan said in an address to an international economic forum in the Georgian capital Tbilisi.

He said the future peace treaty would be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbours Soviet-era borders.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said previously that a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year.

Pashinyan also said Thursday he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats.

Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan.

In 2020 and in the 1990s, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought two wars for control of Karabakh, which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but home to a majority ethnic-Armenian population.

Internationally mediated peace talks between the ex-Soviet republics have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.

Almost all of Nagorno-Karabakhs ethnic Armenian population  some 100,000 people  fled for Armenia after Bakus offensive, sparking a refugee crisis.
The youngest terrorist in Australia has written a letter to the court requesting to be allowed to serve the balance of his sentence at home with his family.

On Thursday, the sixteen-year-old petitioned Adelaides District Court for mercy about the associations he had made at the age of fourteen.

He has condemned the Islamic State and said that his bad judgments were caused by the time he spent online, following his guilty plea to seven terrorism-related offenses.

The appeal was fiercely contested by the prosecution, who said that he was the creator of an internet extremist organisation and had once changed ISIS material to include his own logo.

The child acknowledged to the court in records obtained by the Advertiser that his youthful stupidity caused him to tumble deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole.

I genuinely oppose the terrorist organization IS. He remarked, I realized I was spreading their propaganda, and that was a mistake.

Even though I dont believe I was ever radicalized, I now realize I was at risk, and Im positive I wont fall into the same pitfall evermore.

The remarks I made regarding attacking an Anzac Day service were taken out of context. I never carried out or did anything physical an extremist person would do.

Upon reflection, I see that I could have spent my time more wisely. I want to return home and spend time with my family, he said.

The youngster confessed to giving bomb-making instructions, disseminating IS propaganda, and taking an oath of allegiance to the organization upon his arrest.

He had earlier claimed to the court that his offenses were caused by his autism spectrum disorder, but Judge Muscat had not accepted that.

Since his detention, he has been discovered in possession of used firearms, a homemade IS flag, a book about the September 11 terrorist attacks, and other items.

He had committed violent crimes with a knife and a sharpened toothbrush.

Chris Weir, the boys attorney in court, stated that his client could not be handled similarly to previous terrorists.

He had poor judgment and was foolish when he was younger. Although he may have become somewhat radicalized, what does that actually imply when he is still a young, innocent man with autism?

Judge Muscat denied the appeals, explaining that the kid had done enough to warrant his sentence.

Judge Muscat declared, A laptop is a very powerful instrument.

The youngster had acted purposefully, according to prosecutor James Slocombe, who also claimed that the boy was lacking empathy and that his fantasizing about stabbing people calmed him.

This boy still poses a moderate to high risk to the community if released, the official stated, notwithstanding his diagnosis.

The kid was remanded in custody by Judge Muscat pending his sentencing in December.
Hamas Deputy Chief Saleh al-Arouri has said that the battle with Israel has not begun yet and that their fight is also Hezbollahs fight.

In a telephonic conversation with al-Manar, the Hezbollah-backed TV channel, al-Arouri said that Hamas has been in constant touch with Hezbollah. He also revealed that he had met Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on October 7, the day Hamas attacked Israel and that all of their meetings have not been made public.

If the enemy enters by land, it will be an unprecedented defeat [for Israel], al-Arouri added amid a possible Israeli ground invasion of Gaza. He said that Hamas terrorists are in good condition in spite of Israeli strikes on the Strip.

Regarding the hostage situation, the Hamas deputy chief said that while the foreign hostages held by them are their guests, Israeli people held captive by Hamas will only be released in exchange for Hamas detainees in Israel.

Meanwhile, the head of Lebanon-based terror group Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, met top officials from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) on Wednesday.

According to a statement by Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran, said that Nasrallah met Saleh Al-Arouri, a deputy head of Hamas and the secretary general of Palestinian Islamic Jihad Ziad Nakhla. The statement, however, did not mention where the meeting took place.

An assessment was made ofwhat the parties of the resistance axis must do at this sensitive stage to achieve a real victory for the resistance in Gaza and Palestine and to stop the treacherous and brutal aggression against our people, the statement said.
US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had a telephonic conversation, during which the two leaders discussed the developments in Gaza as well as ongoing efforts to locate and secure the release of hostages including American citizens which are believed to be held by Hamas.

As per the statement released by the White House, both the leaders also reviewed ongoing discussions to ensure safe passage for foreign nationals wishing to depart Gaza as soon as possible.

The President discussed ongoing US support for the continuous flow of humanitarian support to the civilian population in Gaza and welcomed efforts to increase this support over the coming period, the White House said.

During his conversation with Netanyahu, Biden reiterated that Israel has every right and responsibility to defend its citizens from terrorism and to do so in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law.

The statement said Biden also noted the importance of focusing on what comes after this crisis to include a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians, emphasising that Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people or their legitimate aspirations.

Also, during their conversation, Biden and Netanyahu agreed to remain in regular consultation both directly and through their respective national security teams.

The telephonic conversation came on the 19th day of the Israel-Hamas war. More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas rampage.

On Wednesday, Israels military raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released.

Meanwhile, Hamas-run Health Ministry Wednesday said at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded.

With inputs from agencies
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Nawaz Sharifs appeals against his conviction in two high-profile corruption cases were upheld by a top court in this city on Thursday. This is a significant relief for the former prime minister, who hopes to erase his record so he may run in the general elections that are scheduled for January.

Following a nearly four-year self-exile, Sharif returned to Pakistan on October 21 and made his second appearance before the Islamabad High Court (IHC) with his younger brother and PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif.

The ruling, which was reserved earlier today, was pronounced by a two-member division bench made up of Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq.

The 73-year-old former prime ministers bids for protective bail in the Al-Aziza steel factory and Avenfield corruption cases, as well as for the restoration of his appeals against his conviction, were heard by the bench before the verdict was rendered.

Congratulations to all of Pakistan on the restoration of justice, his party said in a post on X, celebrating the restoration of appeals. A large number of his supporters gathered outside the court building and raised slogans in his favour.

Prior to his appearance before the court on October 24 to surrender and submit pleas for the revival of his appeals in both instances, Sharif was given protective bail.

Following the first hearing, the court postponed the hearing to today and sent notice to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB).

While Sharifs attorney argued for the reinstatement of appeals, the NAB prosecutor told the court that the anti-corruption agency was not interested in Sharifs arrest. Additionally, NAB declined to challenge Sharifs attorneys plea.

Following the completion of the arguments, the court reserved its decision, which it subsequently made public.

The seven-year term Sharif was given in the Al-Azizia corruption case was suspended on Tuesday by the Punjab provinces interim government in Pakistan.

In December 2018, Sharif was found guilty in the corruption case involving Al-Azizia Steel Mills and given a seven-year prison sentence. When the judge delivered the verdict in the Al-Azizia case, he had stated that there was hard evidence against him and that he could not provide the trail of the funds his family had used to establish the Al-Azizia steel mills in Saudi Arabia in 2001, as well as the Hill Metal Establishment that was later established in the same Gulf Kingdom.

In the Avenfield Properties case, he was found guilty in July 2018 by an accountability court and given a 10-year prison sentence. After being detained and granted bail, he was released from custody while he filed an appeal against his acquittal in the case were pending.

Nawaz Sharifs daughter Maryam Nawaz was also sentenced to seven years in jail in the Avenfield case but was acquitted in September 2022 along with her husband Muhammad Safdar.

He has consistently refuted accusations of any misconduct and said that the strong establishment, along with the judiciary, staged his conviction.

In December 2020, the IHC proclaimed him a proclaimed offender in both cases.

In order to lead his party in the general elections that are anticipated to take place in January 2024, Sharif, who was disqualified in 2017 and found guilty in both incidents of corruption later in 2018, wants to clear his record. However, the Pakistani Election Commission (ECP) has not released a precise date.

The Pakistan Peoples Party has claimed that the ECP will announce the vote date as soon as Sharif is declared not guilty by the courts in every case he is involved in. Sharif has been dubbed the new ladla (favourite) of the military establishment by the PPP and Imran Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, which is imprisoned former prime leader.

According to Khans party, Sharifs four-year exile was ended by the military establishments approval, which guaranteed him a position as the countrys next prime minister.

The only person from Pakistan to have held the position of prime minister three times in the history of the coup-prone nation is Sharif.

(With agency inputs)
Growing border confrontations fill residents of Qana, a town in south Lebanon, with fear of a new war and acceptance that they wont be able to flee if one breaks out. In 1996, Israeli shelling killed over 100 people in Qana, and in 2006, an Israeli airstrike claimed over 28 lives.

Residents of this town, also called Cana, which is said to be the site of Jesus first miracle of changing water into wine, have grown accustomed to finding themselves caught in the crossfire of battles between Israel and Hezbollah, a strongly armed militia.

The border is the theater of the conflict. Even though it might not be our turn yet, you never know what will occur in a few days. You just wait, said Rabab Yousef, a 57-year-old mother who lost a daughter under the rubble of an Israeli airstrike in 2006.

Every once in a while they create a war and one loses a family member. You give birth to a child and you dont know whether this child will stay with you, she said.

When conflict erupted over Gaza after Palestinian group Hamas  an ally of Hezbollah  launched its devastating raid on Israeli soil on Oct. 7, violence quickly flared on Israels flashpoint northern border with Lebanon.

Since then, Hezbollah, a Shiite Muslim group that is the most powerful of Irans regional allies in Tehrans Axis of Resistance, has been involved in increasingly heavy exchanges of fire with Israels military. More than 40 Hezbollah fighters have been killed in the borderlands so far, while Israels military says at least seven soldiers have been killed.

In Qana, which lies in the hills 11 km (seven miles) north of the border, the streets are lined with posters of Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah and Shiite Muslim politician Nabih Berri. South Lebanon, where many of Lebanons Shiite Muslims live, is Hezbollahs heartland.

As strike and counterstrikes along the frontier now send plumes of smoke into the air, Ghazi Hussein Ai Deebh, a 55-year-old blacksmith, says he has seen it all before. It has become a normal matter as we have been through many wars, he said.

In 2006, he carried the body of a child killed in the Israeli strike, which killed 28 people, half of them children.

An Israeli inquiry after the 2006 incident said it had been a mistake.

Qana experienced an even more devastating incident a decade earlier. In 1996, Israeli shelling hit a U.N. peacekeeper base where hundreds of civilians had been sheltering, killing 106 people, most of them women and children.

Israel voiced regret at the 1996 incident, which prompted it to wind down its Lebanon operation at the time.

The incident occurred during Israels Operation Grapes of Wrath campaign launched in retaliation for Hezbollah shelling during a period when Israel occupied a swathe of south Lebanon.

Its in front of me as it happened today. Especially the children, nothing breaks your heart like children (being killed), said Jamil Salameh, 56, a survivor of the attack and now a security guard at a monument to the 1996 incident.

In her shop, 54-year-old shop owner Kefah said: Inshallah (God willing) these days wont come back.

Declining to give her full name, she added that the town was ready for any eventuality. Its up to the big leaders. If there is war, we are up for it. We dont have fear, she said, speaking next to a poster of Nasrallah.

Sabah Krecht, 57, was less sanguine, saying a deep economic crisis in Lebanon meant many people could not afford to leave.

Were afraid, she said. But where can we go to? This time, it feels like they are giving us time so we can flee but its financially difficult to go somewhere else.

(With inputs from agencies)
After hearing that Taipei was considering purchasing armed drones, Chinas defence ministry accused Taiwans Democratic Progressive Party of moving the island towards a dangerous situation of war at a accelerated rate.

China claims self-ruled Taiwan, as the islands territory and relations have deteriorated since President Tsai Ing-wen, who favours independence, took office in 2016.

After US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in August of last year, Beijing increased its diplomatic and military pressure on the island. Additionally, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of warplane sorties over Taiwan in recent years.

In reaction to news this week, Chinese Ministry of Defence spokesman Wu Qian stated on Thursday that the DPP was pushing Taiwan into a dangerous situation of war and violence at an accelerated pace.

China has escalated its military intimidation of Taiwan while pointing fingers at the DPP, the party in power there.

The Chinese military would strengthen its military training and preparation for war, according to Wus statement on Thursday.

In addition, he criticised US interference in South China Sea waters that China claims, but he also stated that the channels of communication have always been open between Washington and Beijing.

Additionally on Thursday, Taiwan announced that a Chinese flotilla under the command of the Shandong aircraft carrier had crossed the Bashi Channel, the strait dividing the island from the Philippines, and entered the Pacific Ocean.

(With agency inputs)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said that the closer cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) becomes must, especially when the world is facing challenges of a looming economic recession, broken supply chains and food and energy insecurity.

VIDEO | The world is facing challenges of a looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity; this calls for closer cooperation within the SCO, says External Affairs minister @DrSJaishankar at the opening ceremony of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation pic.twitter.com/hu21tPa1Km  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 26, 2023

Addressing the opening ceremony of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) conclave in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, he said, Today when the world is facing challenges, looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity this calls for closer cooperation with the SCO. In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian States plays a key role.

Jaishankar said India is keen to partner with member states for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions.

As we strive to improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey, at the same time connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, he added.

He said that its important to bear in mind that the Global South is not saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives.

I am confident that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the International NorthSouth Transport Corridor could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region, added Jaishankar.

Listing out the World Banks latest update on economic growth, he said India continues to show resilience against the backdrop of a challenging global environment.

Indias GDP growth forecast for FY 2023-24 is 6.3 per cent Our total trade with SCO Members has shown massive growth, especially with Russia. It has grown in the last year, with all SCO Members, by 20 per centThis has the potential to grow manifold, added the external affairs minister.

Jaishankar arrived in Bishkek on Wednesday and soon after called on President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Zhaparov to discuss ways to boost bilateral cooperation in banking, defense and energy sectors.

Delighted to call on President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyz Republic. Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma, defense, agriculture and investments, Jaishankar posted on X.

The minister conveyed Indias support to Kyrgyzstan for the successful Presidency of the SCO Council of Heads of Government.

Kyrgyzstan is hosting the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting in its capacity as the current chair of the grouping.

Jaishankar also met his counterpart from Kyrgyzstan Zheenbek Kulubaev and discussed a range of issues.

Good to see my old friend FM Zheenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek. Spoke about strengthening India-Kyrgyz cooperation in the fields of trade and economy, development projects, health and education. Also exchanged views on Afghanistan, West Asia and connectivity, he wrote on X earlier.

With inputs from agencies
Donald Trump was fined $10,000 on Wednesday after the New York judge overseeing his civil fraud trial said the former US president for a second time violated a gag order barring him from disparaging court staff.

Justice Arthur Engoron had imposed the order on Oct. 3 after Trump shared on social media a photo of the judges top clerk posing with U.S. Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, a Democrat, and falsely called her Schumers girlfriend.

During a break on Wednesday in the case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James concerning Trumps business practices, Trump told reporters in a hallway, This judge is a very partisan judge, with a person whos very partisan sitting alongside of him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is.

Engoron, surmising that Trump was referencing his clerk, called the comments a blatant gag order violation.

Trumps hallway remarks came as Michael Cohen, his onetime lawyer and fixer, testified for a second day against him.

Before being fined, Trump briefly took the witness stand and told Engoron he was referring to you and Cohen during his remarks. The judge rejected the idea, echoed by Trumps lawyer Christopher Kise, that the partisan person Trump mentioned was Cohen.

The idea that that statement would refer to the witness, that doesnt make sense to me, Engoron said. Dont do it again or it will be worse.

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2024 U.S. election, walked out of the courtroom after being fined.

On Oct. 20, Engoron fined Trump $5,000 after finding he had not taken down a post disparaging the clerk, warning that future transgressions could bring far more severe sanctions including jail. In originally imposing the gag order, Engoron said comments against his staff were unacceptable, inappropriate and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Engorons clerk has sat next to the judge during the trial, standard practice in a New York state court.

Alina Habba, one of Trumps lawyers, told Engoron she saw the clerk appear to roll her eyes during Cohens testimony, and that this was completely inappropriate.

COHEN DEFENDS CREDIBILITY

The trial concerns allegations that Trump and his family business, the Trump Organization, unlawfully manipulated asset values and his net worth to dupe lenders and insurers. The case could break up Trumps business empire.

Cohens two days of testimony marked his first face-to-face encounter with Trump in five years. Trump arbitrarily inflated the value of real estate assets to secure favourable insurance premiums, Cohen testified on Tuesday.

Since cutting ties and becoming one of Trumps fiercest critics, Cohen has written two books and created a political podcast.

Cross-examined by Habba on Wednesday, Cohen acknowledged having a financial incentive to criticize Trump but defended his credibility. He rejected Habbas contention that he has made a career of attacking Trump and embellishing criticism for personal gain.

The more outrageous your stories are about President Trump, the more money you make, Habba said. Is that accurate, Mr. Cohen?

No, Cohen responded.

A lawyer for Trumps adult son Eric Trump  also a defendant in the case  asked Engoron to immediately enter a verdict in the defences favour based on what he called Cohens contradictory testimony.

Cohen said on Tuesday Trump told him to inflate his asset values but said during 2019 congressional testimony he did not recall whether he received such a directive.

Engoron denied the request, saying it would be absurd to rule in the defences favour midway through trial based on an equivocal statement by one witness.

Theres enough evidence to fill this courtroom, Engoron said.

Trump has denied wrongdoing in the case. Trump separately has pleaded not guilty in four criminal cases this year.

Cohens testimony could bolster the attorney generals case though his admitted record of deceit could undermine his credibility before Engoron, who alone will decide the outcome of the bench trial. In 2018, Cohen pleaded guilty to tax fraud, campaign finance violations and perjury and was sentenced to three years in prison.

Before the trials Oct. 2 start, Engoron found that Trump fraudulently inflated his net worth, and ordered that companies that control crown jewels of his real estate portfolio, including Trump Tower in Manhattan, be dissolved. That ruling is on hold while Trump appeals.

The trial largely concerns damages. James wants at least $250 million in fines, a permanent ban against Trump and sons Eric and Donald Jr. from running businesses in New York and a five-year commercial real estate ban against Trump and the Trump Organization.
In a horrifying turn of events, a cocaine dealer in Chile, dubbed the TikTok Narco Queen, was put to death in broad daylight.

In chilling footage captured by a spectator on Tuesday morning, Sabrina Duran, 24, was seen laying face down in the middle of a Santiago street following a gunshot wound from an attacker wearing a mask.

The mother-of-one, Duran, was stopped by three guys in the Santiago hamlet of Padre Hurtado when she was heading to a nail salon, according to local news sources.

When a shooter approaches and opens fire, Duran is already shown in the video down on the ground and attempting to get up. She then uses her car to flee.

Graphic Warning: Images may be disturbing for some. Parental discretion advised.

CHILE

Conocida narcotraficante muere en encerrona en Padre Hurtado: Recibio siete disparos en Padre Hurtado NOTICIAEN DESARROLLO

La victima fatal, identificada como "la Ina", hab Sabrina Duran Montero, alias "La Ina", reconocida por sus videos en TikTok, etc pic.twitter.com/QN86B2RHYC  kaotic.chile (@kaoticchile) October 24, 2023

The Chilean police have not given a reason for the horrifying murder, but people with knowledge of the inquiry claim it was related to settling scores.

There was no additional information given regarding who or why.

Authorities discovered a burning Duran car in Quilicura.

Major Leonel Munoz of the police informed reporters,

We are broadening the scope of the investigation to see if there are more motivating factors.

Duran was sentenced to three years in prison for drug trafficking after being detained in 2022 on suspicion of being the head of a local criminal organization.

Before they were all apprehended, she tried to break out of prison by jumping from the third story with other prisoners.

She was, however, given a conditional release from prison in September, enabling her to complete the remainder of her term at home.

With more than 467,000 followers on TikTok, where she has been promoting beauty products since 2021, Duran has developed a sizable social media following.

She posted a video on Monday, showcasing the products she received from DCM Cosmetics.
The Election Commission will require around 30 lakh electronic voting machines (EVMs) and a preparation time of nearly one-and-half years for the smooth conduct of simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, sources have said.

An EVM comprises one control unit, at least one ballot unit and one voter verifiable paper audit trail (VVPAT) unit.

According to the sources, the commission will require nearly 30 lakh control units, about 43 lakh ballot units and about 32 lakh VVPATs for the simultaneous polls, taking into consideration the reserve units kept for replacement in case of any malfunction or damage.

Sources said there is a shortfall of nearly 35 lakh voting units  control units, ballot units and VVPAT units  for the simultaneous conduct of Lok Sabha and assembly polls.

As deliberations on the conduct of simultaneous polls gathered steam, the Election Commission had informed the Law Commission a few months ago that it would also require adequate warehousing facilities to store the electronic voting machines.

The Law Commission, which is working on a report on holding simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies, had organised an interaction with the EC on its requirements and challenges for holding synchronised polls.

Sources aware of the interaction said much would depend on the number of polling stations set up when such an exercise takes place. When Lok Sabha and assembly elections are held simultaneously in some states, voters cast their votes in two separate EVMs. In the last Lok Sabha elections, there were 12.50 lakh polling stations.

The commission now requires around 15 lakh control units, 15 lakh VVPAT units and 18 lakh ballot units for 12.50 lakh polling stations.

An EVM has shelf life of 15 years.

While there was no official estimate available on how much these voting units cost, at the previous procurement rates also the total cost for one crore units will be in excess of Rs 15,000 crore, including over Rs 6,500 crore for VVPAT units.

The cost can go even higher if local body polls are also held together with Lok Sabha and assembly polls.

The high-level committee on one nation, one election headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind is examining holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities and panchayats, keeping in view the existing framework under the Constitution and other statutory provisions.

According to sources, the poll watchdog in its interaction with the Law Commission also listed out challenges such as need for more warehousing facilities for EVMs.

Referring to the nearly one-and-half years of preparatory time, they said two public sector undertakings  ECIL and BEL  who manufacture EVMs would also need to be informed well in advance.

They said the semiconductor industry should also be stable to cater to the enhanced demand. When the interaction took place, there were problems related to the semiconductor industry which seem to have settled now, they pointed out.

The EC would also need time for first-level check (FLC) of EVMs before polls.

The EC has already commenced FLCs for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in a phased manner across India.

During FLCs, EVMs, including VVPATs, machines are checked for mechanical flaws by engineers of Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL) and Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL).

Faulty machines are returned to the manufacturers for repair or replacement. A mock poll is also held to check the two machines in the presence of representatives of political parties.
An Afghan activist who campaigned for girls access to education was released from detention on Thursday, more than seven months after he was arrested by Taliban authorities, his family said.

Matiullah Wesa, the founder of the non-profit organisation PenPath, has been released and is on his way back home, his brother Attaullah Wesa told AFP, adding that he did not yet have information on his brothers physical health.

Matiullah was arrested in March this year for his activities in the education sector, his brother said at the time.

PenPath has for more than a decade dedicated itself to communicating the importance of education to elders in rural villages, helping to reopen schools for girls and boys closed because of violence, and establishing libraries.

Since seizing power in August 2021, Afghanistans Taliban government has imposed a strict interpretation of Islamic law on the country, largely excluding women from public life.

Teenage girls and women are barred from schools and universities. Thousands of women have lost their government jobs  or are being paid to stay at home.

Girls and women are also prohibited from entering parks, funfairs or gyms.

Since the ban on secondary schools for girls, Matiullah had continued visiting remote areas to gather support from locals and vowed to continue his campaign.

Attaullah said his brother was sentenced to seven months in jail for carrying out propaganda against the government, but it was not clarified what that propaganda was.

I dont know how to react, I have barely slept or eaten since yesterday because I was following his case, he said.

The arrest sparked an outcry from the United Nations and international rights groups.

The UNs top expert on rights in Afghanistan Richard Bennett welcomed Wesas release.

In a social media post, he called for the immediate & unconditional release of all Afghanistan human rights defenders who are arbitrarily detained for standing up for their own rights & the human rights of others.

Matiullah is the latest detainee to be released in recent weeks.

Afghan-French journalist Mortaza Behboudi, who had spent 284 days in jail in Afghanistan, was released earlier this month.
Russian news agencies claimed, citing the foreign ministry, that a Hamas delegation visited Moscow on Thursday to discuss the release of foreign hostages, including Russian citizens, that the militant group is currently holding in Gaza.

TASS reported that Abu Marzouk, a senior Hamas member, was present at the discussions.

Contacts were held with him in continuation of the Russian line on the immediate release of foreign hostages in the Gaza Strip. Issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were also discussed, TASS said.

Russia has connections with all of the major actors in the Middle East, such as Hamas, the Islamist terrorist organisation that rules Gaza, Israel, Iran, and the Palestinian Authority.

Moscow has called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as well as the restart of negotiations aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution and has frequently blamed the current crisis on the failure of US diplomacy.

According to Russias RIA news agency, Hamas issued a statement of its own in which it commended the efforts of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the foreign ministry to put an end to what it called the crimes of Israel that are supported by the West.

Israel has responded to a Hamas attack on October 7th that left 1,400 people dead. Israel is getting ready to launch a ground assault of Gaza after attacking the 2.3 million-population territory from the air. According to Palestinian officials, almost 6,500 people have died.

Irans Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Baghiri Kani is now in Moscow as well, according to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministrys Maria Zakharova made earlier on Thursday during a weekly briefing.

Zakharova withheld further information. Irans principal nuclear negotiator is Baghiri Kani. In its war with Hamas, Iran is a staunch supporter of Hamas.

(With agency inputs)
Israel Defence Forces have claimed that Hamas, which governs the Gaza Strip, stores enough fuel to run hospitals and water pumps but the militant organisations priorities are different as it prefers to have all the fuel for its war-fighting capabilities, leaving civilians without it.

#WATCH | Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesperson LTC Jonathan Conricus says, Hamas which governs the Gaza Strip stores fuel  both diesel fuel, benzene and other types of fuel. It is all inside the Gaza Strip and there is enough for many days for hospitals and water pumps to pic.twitter.com/U4EdOLsH9z  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

In a video message shared by ANI news agency on X, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) Spokesperson LTC Jonathan Conricus said, Hamas which governs the Gaza Strip stores fuel  both diesel fuel, benzene and other types of fuel. It is all inside the Gaza Strip and there is enough for many days for hospitals and water pumps to run. Only the priorities are different. Hamas prefers to have all the fuel for its war-fighting capabilities, leaving civilians without it.

He said that international organisations ask for help but who are they asking from.

Are they asking Hamas who has the access to fuel and governs the Gaza Strip or are they blaming Israel, or asking Egypt. I think its very important that they point their questions and requests to the ones who can actually help them, and actually govern the Gaza Strip and that is Hamas, added Conricus.

Almost three weeks after the terror attack by Hamas militants against Israel sparked a wave of retaliatory airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, international humanitarian agencies are warning that the Palestinian territory is running out of critical and life-saving resources, especially fuel.

Gaza, a narrow stretch of land along the Mediterranean Sea between Israel and Egypt, has been under an Israeli military blockade since Hamas took control of the enclave in 2007. Home to a densely packed population of about 2.3 million people, Gaza depends largely on Israel for drinking water, food supplies, electricity and fuel for its only power plant.

In response to Hamass control, Israeli officials have limited the distribution of electricity and fuel to Gaza, citing concerns that these resources could be used to support the Hamas regime. Ongoing conflicts between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority, which governs the Israeli-occupied West Bank, have exacerbated the energy crisis in Gaza, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

The recent escalation in violence in the region, with more than 1,400 people killed in Israel, primarily civilians, prompted Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to intensify the Gaza blockade.

Gallant stated, Nothing is allowed in or out, there will be no fuel, electricity, or food supplies.

However, over the weekend, twenty trucks carrying humanitarian aid, including drinking water and medical supplies, were permitted to enter Gaza via the Rafah crossing in Egypt, marking the first such allowance since the conflict began.

Fuel remains in short supply, and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) warned that they would be unable to continue their operations in Gaza without it. The UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, also stressed that without fuel, aid delivery, hospital operations, and water purification would be severely impacted.

Its estimated that Gaza requires approximately 160,000 liters (over 42,000 gallons) of fuel per day to meet its basic needs.

The World Health Organization noted that a third of Gazas hospitals were no longer functional due to the fuel shortage, emphasising the enormous medical burden facing the territory under the Israeli military siege.

While the WHO managed to deliver some fuel to major hospitals and ambulance services, it was only sufficient to keep them running for a little over 24 hours. Patients dependent on vital medical treatments, such as dialysis, neonatal care, and surgeries, are at risk if a stable supply of electricity is not maintained.

The Israel Defence Forces spokesperson, Daniel Hagari, stated that fuel would not be provided to Gaza due to concerns that it could be seized by Hamas and used to support further violence. The claim that Hamas is stockpiling fuel in tanks inside Gaza and not distributing it to Palestinian civilians has not been independently verified.

These fuel tanks are inside Gaza. They contain more than 500,000 liters of fuel. Ask Hamas if you can have some. https://t.co/Dlag6VdbMq pic.twitter.com/WXzZMFr8yI  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 24, 2023

The situation in Gaza remains complex, with humanitarian consequences resulting from the shortage of essential resources such as fuel, food, and electricity, affecting the lives of the people in the region.

With inputs from agencies
An audio recording of a Military Intelligence Directorate officer speaking to a Gazan man in Unit 504 (which specializes in HUMINT) is released by the Israel Defense Forces.

In it, the officer describes how Hamas is shooting at and preventing people from leaving the northern Gaza Strip.

As the military steps up its assaults in the Gaza City area in anticipation of a planned significant ground incursion, the IDF claims that Unit 504 soldiers have been ringing up Palestinians in northern Gaza in recent days and telling them to evacuate the area for their protection.

The individual is heard being asked to head toward Khan Younis in southern Gaza by the IDF officer in the recently released call, but the Gazan responds that Hamas is barring all the highways.

According to the individual, Hamas is just sending people back home and erecting automobile barriers.

The Gazan adds that Palestinians trying to flee the area are being shot at by Hamas militants.

Since the war started on October 7, the IDF has often accused Hamas of impeding Palestinians ability to evacuate south.
The air strike that killed the family members of Al Jazeeras journalist Wael Al Dahdouh was carried out against Hamas terrorist infrastructure, IDF said in a statement.

Wael Al Dahdouh, Al Jazeeras bureau chief in Gaza, lost his wife, son, daughter, and grandson in an air strike that hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza where they were taking shelter after being displaced, as per Al Jazeera.

Strikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a statement to CNN.

Regarding this specific case, the IDF targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area, it added.

Al Dahdouhs family were displaced from Tal El Hawa to Nuseirat refugee camp, Al Jazeeras office in Ramallah told CNN.

The news of the deaths was broken by the network.

We note this breaking news that we transmit on the Al Jazeera network. A number of family members of our colleague, Wael Al Dahdouh were martyred, including his wife, son and daughter, an anchor said as he fought back tears, .. in an Israel bombing that targeted (his) house  Al Jazeera anchor Abdisalam Farah said.

 Al-Jazeeras host bursts into tears as he announces the news of the tragic murder of the son, daughter, wife and several grandchildren of his colleague Wael al-Dahdouh in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. EDIT: Subbed and added the video of the journalist. RIP pic.twitter.com/u6lMdPkOsP  Lord Bebo (@MyLordBebo) October 25, 2023

The Network strongly condemns the indiscriminate targeting and killing of innocent civilians in Gaza, which has led to the loss of Wael Al-Dahdouhs family and countless others, Al Jazeera said in a statement.

Al Dahdouhs son Mahmoud was 15 years old while his daughter Sham was seven years old.

We are in a big catastrophe right now. A big tragedy is being perpetrated especially against women and children. At the end of the day, we are on this land. This is our destiny, Al-Dahdouh told his network.

The family of Al Jazeeras Gaza bureau chief Wael Dahdouh has been killed in an Israeli attack at the Al Nuseirat Camp in central Gaza, where they had forcibly evacuated to shelter from Israeli bombardments  pic.twitter.com/ya64Lgunbp  Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) October 25, 2023

Twenty-one other people, along with Al-Dahdouhs family members, were also killed in the same airstrike, according to Palestinian health officials.
Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog said that Israel is giving an opportunity for Gaza terror groups to release people under their captivity.

Israel is giving an opportunity for the hostages to be released. We are obviously calling for the immediate unconditional release of all of them, Herzog told Army Radio.

He added, Taking hostages is a war crime. I dont want to comment beyond that.

His comments came amid speculations that Israel is postponing its ground invasion of Gaza to give mediators the time to release over 220 people who are being held hostage by Hamas.

Israel says foreign nationals held hostage

Meanwhile, the Israeli government said that half of the 220 hostages held by Hamas possess foreign passports from 25 countries, including 54 Thai nationals.

Israel said 138 of the hostages had foreign passports, including 15 Argentines, 12 Germans, 12 Americans, six French and six Russians.

Many were believed to have had dual Israeli nationality; however, some, like the Thais and five Nepalese hostages, almost certainly did not. There was also one Chinese hostage, one Sri Lankan, two from Tanzania and two from the Philippines.

Thais also made up the largest single group of foreign dead and missing, with 24 confirmed killed and 21 unaccounted for.

Among other foreign countries that suffered heavy losses were the U.S., with 34 killed and five missing; Ukraine, with 25 killed and two missing; France, with 23 killed and one missing; and Russia with 23 killed and four missing.

Five Chinese citizens were killed and one was missing, while Nepal had five killed and five missing.

With inputs from Reuters
The Israel-Hamas war could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East, warned Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The comments were made by Putin in a Kremlin meeting with Russian religious leaders of different faiths.

The Russian president said bloodshed in the region had to stop. He also claimed that the people in Gaza were being punished for other peoples crimes.

Putin also said during phone calls with other world leaders, he has said if the Israel-Hamas conflict did not stop, there was a risk of a much wider conflagration.

As per Kremlin transcript of Putin of the meeting, Putin said: Our task today, our main task, is to stop the bloodshed and violence.

Otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East, the Russian president said.

Putins subtle attack on US

During the meeting, Putin also criticised the West, without naming it directly and said, Certain unnamed forces were seeking to provoke further escalation and to draw as many other countries and peoples into the conflict as possible.

The aim, he said, was to launch a real wave of chaos and mutual hatred not only in the Middle East but also far beyond its borders. For this purpose, among other things, they are trying to play on the national and religious feelings of millions of people.

Putin conveyed his condolences to the families of Israelis and citizens of other countries who were killed or wounded by Hamas in its bloody October 7 attack.

Moscow, he said, continued to advocate for a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli issue, something he said was the only way to reach a long-term settlement.

He made it clear though that he thought Israel was wrong to keep bombing Gaza in retaliation for the slaughter and hostage-taking of Israeli citizens by Hamas.

It is also clear to us that innocent people should not be held responsible for crimes committed by others, said Putin.

The fight against terrorism cannot be conducted according to the notorious principle of collective responsibility when old people, women, children, entire families and hundreds of thousands of people are left without shelter, food, water, electricity and medical care.

With inputs from Reuters
EU leaders will on Thursday debate calling for humanitarian pauses in Israels war with Hamas, as the bloc weighs how to respond to another conflict as fighting rages in Ukraine.

The European Union has struggled for both unity and influence in the face of the crisis that has engulfed the Middle East since Hamas launched its attack on Israel on 7 October.

The surge in bloodshed has stretched Europes attention at a time of rising doubts about the Wests ability to keep supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

There has been strong condemnation of the Hamas attack that Israel says killed at least 1,400 people and resulted in more than 200 being taken hostage.

But there has been less consensus on urging any halt to Israels retaliatory bombardment of Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says has killed over 6,500 people.

After days of negotiations, the latest draft statement for the summit, seen by AFP, calls for humanitarian corridors and pauses.

That was updated from an earlier draft that had the formulation a humanitarian pause so that aid can reach civilians in Gaza.

That statement  which could still change when leaders meet in Brussels  falls short of demands from the United Nations for a ceasefire.

Germany, wary of urging a more definitive halt that could tie Israels hands, had argued for the call to be humanitarian windows or pauses in the plural.

Letters, commas, language matter, and thats how you find agreements, said a senior EU official.

But diplomats from some EU nations warn that delays over finding the right words as the death toll mounts are hitting the blocs global standing and leaving it flailing in the face of developments.

The summit was taking place after Israel said it sent tanks and infantry into Gaza on an overnight raid before pulling back to home soil. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared preparations for a ground war are under way.

Ukraine overshadowed?

The eruption of violence in the Middle East has sparked fears the West could get distracted from Russias war on Ukraine 20 months into the invasion.

The fresh crisis comes at a moment when turmoil in the US Congress has raised questions about the sustainability of Washingtons military aid.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz vowed Tuesday that support will in no way be impacted by the fact that we of course since the horrible morning hours of October 7 have focused on Israel and the Middle East.

Chief among EU measures meant to reassure Kyiv is a plan  earlier estimated at 20 billion euros ($21 billion) over four years  for a defence fund for Ukraine as part of broader Western security commitments.

Diplomats say progress has been held up by Hungary, Russias closest ally in the bloc, and leaders are set to task the blocs foreign policy chief to report back on the issue in December.

There will also be calls to impose new sanctions on Moscow that could include banning Russian diamond imports once the G7 agrees on a way of tracing them.

In addition, a plan for using the revenues from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine will be discussed.

Looming over the discussion on Ukraine will be the countrys next steps in its push to join the EU.

The blocs executive arm is to give an assessment on November 8 on whether to open formal accession talks with Kyiv.

Then it will be up to EU leaders to decide whether to adopt any recommendations by the end of the year.
The war between Israel and Hamas entered its 20th day on Thursday, amid this Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a statement that was until now just being said by the forces of the country.

In a televised statement, Netanyahu said: Israel is preparing itself for a ground invasion.

The Prime Minister, however, declined to provide any details on the timing or other information about the operation.

Who would decide timing of Israels ground invasion of Gaza?

On when Israeli forces would go into the Palestinian enclave, controlled by Hamas, Netanyahu said, the decision would be taken by his governments special war Cabinet, which includes the leader of one of the centrist opposition parties.

Just the beginning

In his address, the Israeli prime minister also said, We have already killed thousands of terrorists and this is only the beginning.

Simultaneously, we are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be.

Israel has been carrying out intense bombardment of the densely populated Gaza Strip following the October 7 Hamas onslaught on Israeli communities that killed around 1,400 people.

According to the Health Ministry of Gaza, more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the bombardments.

Netanyahu, who has been asked by 80 per cent of his countrys population to take responsibility for the security failures that led to the Hamas attack on October 7, said all involved would be called to account.

The scandal will be fully investigated, he said.

Everyone will have to give answers, me too. But all this will happen only after the war, the Israeli prime minister added.

Meanwhile, a report by the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday citied US and Israeli officials saying Israel had agreed to delay the invasion of Gaza for now, so the United States could rush missile defences to the region.

With inputs from agencies
Not the United States, Israel will be ultimately making its own decision on when to begin the ground invasion of Gaza, said Benny Gantz, who is member of Israels war Cabinet.

The statement by Gantz came a day after a Wall Street Journal report citing America and Israeli sources saying Israel has agreed to delay an expected ground invasion of Gaza  until at least later this week at the request of the US, so it can get more defences in place to protect American troops.

On Wednesday, Joe Biden was asked if he was urging to Israel to delay its ground invasion to Gaza, to which the US President said, The Israelis can make their own decisions.

Decisions based on our own interests

Talking to reporters in Tel Aviv, Gantz said: We are making decisions only based on our own interests.

He also said Israel appreciates the support it has received from its ally the US.

Only we will defend ourselves and every Jew, he said, adding that the danger of being eliminated is not Israels but its enemies.

Tough times are expected for us, Gantz said, but assured that the Israels war Cabinet has been functioning well.

Speaking about his National Unity partys decision to join Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahus government two weeks ago, Gantz said: I say to you with full confidence that this was the right step for Israel and this step has already proved itself, in security decisions and a message of internal unity, important both for domestic and enemy audiences.

I am a soldier. I wasnt playing politics when I joined the emergency government. Just as I knew when to enter, I will also know when to exit, he said, adding, Im here until after the war.

We, as leadership, are aware of the difficulties for civilians, in light of Hamass assault and the war that ensued. We will work on a new plan for the area in order to ensure security for the communities the state plans to resurrect in the Gaza border area, he said.

Gantz also said the Israeli government is working to return hostages, using every avenue possible.

He also reassured Israelis of the strength of the military and the rightness of Israels cause.

We will not be the ones at risk of being wiped out. That will be the fate of those who seek to do us ill, he said.

With inputs from agencies
Israels offensive in Gaza was a war of revenge, said Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister Thursday as he called for a ceasefire in the conflict.

This time the war that Israel is waging is different. This time its a war of revenge, Riyad al-Maliki said in The Hague. First we need to end this one-sided aggression and then we need to call for a ceasefire, he said.

Malikis visit to the Hague comes as Israel said a column of tanks and infantry launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza, striking numerous targets.

Hamas terrorists launched surprise and unprecedented attack on Israel on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials. They are still believed to be holding more than 200 hostages.

Since the Hamas attack, Gazas Hamas-run health ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed by Israels relentless retaliatory bombardments, mostly civilians and many of them children.

Addressing a press conference at the Palestinian Authoritys mission to The Hague, Maliki said a ceasefire is essential for the distribution of humanitarian aid.

He flew into the Dutch city on Wednesday, and met top officials at the International Criminal Court including its chief prosecutor Karim Khan.

The situation in Gaza is so dangerous now that it needs immediate intervention by the (ICC) prosecutor, Maliki said.

He said the Palestinian Authority was working with the ICC prosecutor and providing the court with all information to take action.

Maliki said the Palestinians made a second submission to the UNs highest International Court of Justice, which is also based in The Hague.

The UNs general Assembly has asked the ICJs judges for an advisory opinion on occupation in Palestine.

Chief prosecutor Khans office said earlier this month it was continuously gathering information in support of its probe into the Palestinian situation.

It opened a formal investigation in 2021 into the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories, including alleged crimes by Israeli forces and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups.

The prosecutors office put in place a dedicated team to advance the investigation in relation to the situation in the State of Palestine, the first time a fully resourced team had been established in relation to this situation, it said.

Set up in 2002, the ICCs is the only global independent tribunal to probe the worlds worst crimes including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Palestine signed up to the courts founding Rome Statute in 2015.

Israel, which is not a member of the ICC, has refused to cooperate with the probe or recognise its jurisdiction.

With inputs from AFP
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday acknowledged for the first time that he would have to give answers for security lapses exposed in the deadly 7 October attacks by Hamas.

We will examine in detail, we will get to the bottom of it, said Netanyahu, who has faced a barrage of opposition and media criticism after Gaza militants breached Israeli border defences.

The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me. But all this will happen later, the right-wing leader said in a televised address as the Israeli military prepares for a widely expected invasion of the Gaza Strip.

As prime minister I am responsible for securing the future of the country, he added.

Israel says 1,400 people, most of whom were civilians, died in the attacks.

Gazas Hamas government says that Israeli air and artillery bombing since 7 October have left more than 6,500 dead, including some 2,700 children.

With tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed at the Gaza border, Netanyahu said we are raining down hellfire with the air strikes and that all Hamas terrorists are dead men walking  above ground, below ground, outside Gaza.

We are preparing the ground offensive, Netanyahu said.

I cannot say when, how or how many, nor all the elements that we are taking into account, of which most are not known to the public, he added.

Netanyahu said Israels war cabinet, named after 7 October, would unanimously decide the time of the offensive.

Israel has an army of about 165,000 and has called up 360,000 reservists, some on the Gaza border and others moved to the border with Lebanon, where the Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement has been staging daily artillery attacks.
Israels ambassador to Taiwan stated on Thursday that although Chinas reaction to the attack by Hamas terrorists has been disturbing, Taiwan has been a good friend whose assistance Israel has appreciated.

Like other nations, Taiwan is a Chinese territory, and Israel does not have formal diplomatic connections with it. Taiwan, meanwhile, sees Israel as a crucial ally in the democratic process.

Taiwan swiftly denounced the Oct. 7 attack on the nation by Hamas militants from Palestine and extended Taiwans deepest sympathies and solidarity to Israel.

Speaking to media in Taipei, Maya Yaron, Israels de facto ambassador, commended the government of Taiwan, particularly President Tsai Ing-wen, for their strong support.

Taiwan is really a good friend for Israel and we truly appreciate everything that we receive. Im in close touch with the foreign minister, I think people are very concerned, she said.

China has denounced the bloodshed and attacks on civilians, but its foreign minister Wang Yi has not specifically mentioned Hamas in his remarks that Israels actions go beyond the scope of self-defence.

China and Russia on Wednesday blocked an American drive for the UN Security Council to take action on the Israel-Hamas war. They demanded that violence cease in order to provide access for humanitarian aid, protect civilians, and cease arming Hamas and other militant groups in the Gaza Strip.

Yaron reaffirmed the disappointment of her administration with Chinas failure to denounce the attacks carried out by Hamas against civilians.

This is actually something that is very disturbing with China, she said.

(With agency inputs)
Israel is set to employ innovative sponge bombs as a strategic tool in its operations to combat the network of Hamas tunnels beneath Gaza.

According to a report by Telegraph, these sponge bombs, a unique creation of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), do not contain explosives but serve the purpose of sealing off gaps or tunnel entrances from which enemy fighters might emerge.

The IDF has maintained a tight-lipped stance on the utilization of these so-called sponge bombs, which unleash a sudden burst of foam that rapidly expands and solidifies.

In the year 2021, observant eyes witnessed IDF personnel deploying these ingenious devices during training exercises. A mock tunnel system was established at the TzeElim army base, located near the Gaza border, to hone the skills required to navigate these underground passages.

As the IDF prepares for the impending ground invasion, it is imperative to acknowledge the challenging and potentially perilous journey its troops might undertake within the extensive labyrinth of tunnels known colloquially as the Gaza Metro.

This network extends for hundreds of miles and is designed with various traps, providing cover for Hamas fighters and shelter for its leadership.

By preventing ambushes as soldiers advance deeper into the network, the sponge bomb would close off openings that Hamas may exploit.

These specialized gadgets are housed in a plastic container with a metal divider between two liquids. The compounds combine as the soldier positions or launches the bomb forward after removing this barrier.

In order to find tunnels, specialized teams within the IDFs engineering corps were organized into tunnel reconnaissance units and outfitted with ground penetrating radar, aerial and ground sensors, and specialized drilling systems.

As per the report, the IDF have also been given specialized equipment that allows them to see underground.

Although ambient light is necessary for night vision goggles to function properly, soldiers moving underground will have to rely only on thermal technology to see in complete darkness because all natural light is shut out.

New radios have also been developed that are specifically designed to function in the harsh circumstances found beneath.

Drones and robots may also be used by Israel to assist in tunnel navigation, though their deployment underground has proven challenging thus far.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have acknowledged that Israeli troops invaded northern Gaza on October 26, marking the twentieth day of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

The IDF initiated the operation in Northern Gaza to make ready for the next phases of warfare; they targeted anti-tank missile launch locations, infrastructure, and other Hamas terrorist cells.

But Israeli forces quickly left the Gaza Strip and went back to their own land. Since the October 7 Hamas attack, Israel has bombarded Gaza nonstop, killing many people and causing extensive property damage. To destroy Hamas, the Israeli government has stated that it is prepared to launch a full-scale air, sea, and land attack on Gaza.

Since October 7, Israeli airstrikes have killed 6,546 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, including 2,704 children, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. It stated that the number included 756 deaths in the previous 24 hours, 344 of whom were minors, and that a total of 17,439 injuries had occurred. US President Joe Biden acknowledged that innocents have been killed, and thats the price of waging a war. However, I dont think the Palestinians number is reliable.

Joe Biden renewed his call for a two-state solution after the current Israel-Hamas conflict is finished, urging Israelis and Palestinians to negotiate coexisting in peace. According to the US president, he did not demand that Israel postpone a ground invasion of Gaza.

Benjamin Netanyahu said Israels military was getting prepared for the ground invasion of Gaza with the goal of destroying Hamass military and governmental capabilities. In a televised statement, the Israeli prime minister said his war cabinet was working around the clock to reach victory.

According to a report, the Pentagon is working to deploy systems to protect US troops in Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Israel has agreed to allow the US to get its air defences to the region before an anticipated ground invasion of Gaza.

Riyad al-Maliki, the foreign minister of the Palestinian Authority, met with top ICC officials on Wednesday in The Hague. Maliki arrived for his visit one day after criticising the UN Security Councils lack of action. Fatah is in charge of the Palestinian Authority, which also claims Gaza but has no authority there. It controls parts of the West Bank.

On Wednesday, the World Health Organisation demanded that Hamas give evidence of the lives of the hostages it is holding and free them all on the grounds of health. According to the WHO, the International Committee of the Red Cross should have instant access to healthcare in order to determine their current state of health.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) warned that unless fuel supplies are received, relief work in Gaza will have to come to an end on Wednesday night. Water pumps, bakeries, and hospitals can also stop working. According to Oxfam, Israel is using famine as a military tactic against civilians living in Gaza.

UNRWA reported that a close proximity strike resulted Israeli severe collateral damage to a school in Gaza that was providing shelter to Palestinians. There was one civilian fatality and forty-four injuries, including nine children, it said. The UN says about 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents are now internally displaced.

An Israeli airstrike in Gaza claimed the lives of an Al Jazeera correspondents whole immediate family. Israel had issued a warning to residents residing in the northern portion of the region to evacuate, and Wael al-Dahdouh had gone to the Nuseirat camp with his family. The bombing late on Tuesday killed Al-Dahdouhs wife, son, daughter, and grandson and occurred after an overnight flurry of deadly Israeli attacks.

A comprehensive blockade, a severe fuel shortage, and constant Israeli bombing have left Gazas hospitals in a condition of disarray and weariness, according to a Red Cross team assessing the regions medical facilities.

Antonio Guterres, the UN secretary general, expressed his dismay at what he considered the Israeli governments misrepresentation of his statements to the UN, implying that he had justified the Hamas attacks of 7 October. Israel has called for his resignation and moved to withdraw travel visas for UN officials.

The Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogans claim that Hamas is not a terrorist outfit has been wholeheartedly rejected by Israel. Hamas is a liberation group, mujahideen, defending their lands, Erdoan told lawmakers from his party. In addition, Erdogan declared that he was calling off a trip to Israel.

Though his government has cautioned that an Israeli invasion may endanger such efforts, Qatars prime minister expressed optimism that the discussions it is leading for the release of Hamas hostages will soon reach a breakthrough.

In order to allow relief to reach people in need, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has asked for pauses in the battle. On Wednesday, Sunak in the Commons specifically refrained from endorsing a complete ceasefire.

According to Emmanuel Macron, if Israel conducted a massive ground invasion into Gaza, it would be a error. Abdel Fatah al-Sisi, the president of Egypt, was in Cairo for discussions with the president of France. The latter urged efforts to avoid a ground invasion.

According to the UN, Gazas economy was destroyed by Israels siege, and 80% of its citizens were dependent on outside aid even before the current crisis broke out. It said that due to a decades-long siege, 45% of people in Gaza are unemployed and two-thirds of the population live in poverty.

After Russia vetoed the USs most recent draught resolution supporting Israels right to collective self-defense and for humanitarian pauses to let aid into Gaza, the US expressed its profound disappointment at the UN Security Council.

(With agency inputs)
As Arab indignation over Israels ceaseless bombardment of the beleaguered Palestinian enclave grew, Israeli ground forces launched a major raid into Gaza overnight against Hamas targets.

While the United States and other nations pushed Israel to postpone such action out of concern that it could spark wars on other Middle East fronts, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli troops were still getting ready for a complete ground invasion.

In light of the acute need for food, water, shelter, and medical attention in the Hamas-ruled region, the U.N. organisation that is assisting Palestinian people in Gaza warned that it would have to cease operations very soon if fuel is not delivered.

After Hamas attacked Israeli communities on October 7, Israel pounded the heavily populated Gaza Strip for almost three weeks. Israel claims that over 200 individuals have been kidnapped and 1,400 people slain by Hamas.

2,913 children were among the 7,028 Palestinians who died as a result of the retaliatory airstrikes, according to the health ministry in Gaza on Thursday.

The Palestinian casualty estimates were questioned by US President Joe Biden on Wednesday, as an Israeli military official stated they could not be relied upon.

The military has not released any evaluation of its own, and Ashraf al-Qidra, a spokesman for the Gaza Health Ministry, dismissed any claims that cast doubt on the numbers.

The names and ID numbers of all the victims who have been identified are listed in a document that the government released on Thursday.

Israeli army radio said the military had overnight staged its biggest incursion into northern Gaza of the current war. Armoured vehicles crossed the fortified border and blew up buildings, a military video showed.

Tanks and infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts, it said.

Palestinians said Israeli air strikes pounded the territory again overnight and people in central Gaza reported intensive tank shelling all night.

The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia denounced what they called the targeting of civilians and breaches of international law, with no signs of a slowdown in Gaza.

According to their joint statement, Israels right to self-defense does not excuse breaching the law or ignoring the rights of the Palestinian people. The collective punishment and forcible relocation of Palestinians in Gaza were denounced by the Arab ministers.

Along with criticising Israels occupation of Palestinian regions, they demanded further efforts to realise the long-awaited goal of long-term peacemaking: a two-state solution to the conflict that has lasted for decades.

The absence of a political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has led to repeated acts of violence and suffering for the Palestinian and Israeli peoples and the peoples of the region, it said.

Governments in Europe supported Israel.

Olaf Scholz, the chancellor of Germany, stated that Fridays EU summit in Brussels will convey a strong message of support for Israel.

We can be certain that the Israeli army will respect the rules that arise from international law in everything it does, Scholz said.

However, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo cautioned Israel against starving Gaza in remarks that revealed divides within the alliance.

He claimed that Israel had the right to respond and stop such attacks in the future.

But that is never an excuse for blocking a whole region, for blocking humanitarian aid. It cannot be an excuse to starve a population.

The fate of the more than 200 hostages that Hamas took during the attack on October 7 and sent to Gaza also became a source of concern.

About fifty prisoners had died in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes, according to a spokesman for the armed branch of Hamas, the al-Qassam Brigades, on Thursday. He did not provide any more information, and Reuters was unable to confirm the figures.

Any Israeli ground attack is complicated by the presence of the 224 hostages, according to Israel. Several people with foreign passports are included in this. Since Friday, Hamas has released four prisoners.

According to a Qatari negotiator who spoke with Sky News, more hostages may be freed in the next few days if the fighting stops.

Qatari Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammed Al Khulaifi said: Its a very, very difficult negotiation  With the bombing continuing every day, our task becomes more difficult. But despite that we remain hopeful.

In Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza, an Israeli air strike hit a house, killing a mother, her three daughters and a baby boy, whose father held his body in hospital.

Did he kill? Did he wound someone? Did he capture someone? They were innocent children inside their house, he said.

The director of the Nasser hospital in the southern city of Khan Younis, Nahed Abu Taaema, said the bodies of 77 people killed in airstrikes had been brought in overnight, most of them women and children, Hamass Al-Aqsa radio station reported.

Around midday on Thursday, Nasser hospital officials said, Israel bombed an area not far from an UNRWA shelter for displaced people, killing at least 18 people.

Israel said its forces had struck a Hamas missile launch post in the Khan Younis area that was next to a mosque and kindergarten. It was unclear whether the two sides were referring to the same incident.

Many Palestinians are sheltering in Khan Younis hospitals, schools, homes and refugee camps and on the street after Israel warned them to leave their homes in the north.

Fuel is desperately needed, according to UNRWA, the UN organisation for Palestinian refugees, in order to continue life-saving humanitarian activities in Gaza. Israel has resisted allowing aid shipments to contain fuel, claiming that Hamas might grab it.

Over 613,000 war-displaced persons are taking refuge at 150 UNRWA locations throughout the devastated region.

At the UN, world powers were unable to come to a consensus on how to request a pause in hostilities so that substantial quantities of humanitarian relief could be sent, despite the dire shortage of supplies.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, speaking at the U.N., said that if Israels offensive against Hamas did not stop, the United States will not be spared from this fire.

(With agency inputs)
US President Joe Biden said Wednesday that he did not demand that Israel delay a ground invasion of Gaza until hostages held by Hamas are freed.

Its their decision but I did not demand it, Biden said of his conversations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

What I have indicated to him is that if its possible to get these folks out safely thats what he should do.

The US President also called for world leaders to develop plans for a path toward peace including two-state solution when the Israel-Hamas war is over.

Biden also said that while Israel has the right to respond to the 7 October Hamas attack it must do everything it can to protect civilians.

When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next. And in our view that has to be a two-state solution with independent Israeli and Palestinian states, Biden said at the start of his joint press conference with Anthony Albanese.

It means a concentrated effort for all the parties  Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, global leaders  to put us on a path toward peace.

Bidens comments were his most explicit yet on what might come after the conflict that has killed thousands of civilians on both sides, caused a humanitarian crisis in Gaza and raised fears of a regional conflagration.

The US president backed up the message in a call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, the White House said.

Biden noted the importance of focusing on what comes after this crisis to include a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians, it said in a statement.

Innocent civilians

During the press conference, Biden accused Hamas of hiding behind Palestinian civilians, as Israel bombards the territory, but said Israel must follow the laws of war.

Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. Its difficult, he said.

Biden also called for an immediate end to Israeli settler attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank.

Thats pouring gasoline on the fire, he said. Theyre attacking Palestinians in places that theyre entitled, and it has to stop now.

Israel has been bombarding Gaza since October 7 when Hamas gunmen poured across the border, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 others, officials say, in the worst attack in Israels history.

So far more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed, mostly civilians, in the Israeli retaliatory strikes, according to the Hamas-ruled health ministry in Gaza.

Biden however cast doubt on civilian casualty figures put forward by the Palestinians.

I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. Im sure innocents have been killed, and its a price of waging war, he said.

But I have no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using.

US media have meanwhile reported that Biden has pushed Netanyahu to hold off on a ground invasion of Gaza while Hamas still holds hostages, but Biden denied it.

What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Biden said.

But I did not demand it. I put it out to him, if its real, it should be done.
Support Israel? Leave Libya thats what the Libyan parliament has told ambassadors from countries amid the Israel-Hamas war, taking specific aim at the US, Britain, France and Italy.

In a statement published on its official website, the eastern-based parliament  backed by military strongman Khalifa Haftar in Libya split between two rival administrations  threatened to cut energy supplies if massacres against Palestinians did not stop.

We demand that the ambassadors of the states which support the Zionist entity (Israel) in its crimes leave the territory (of Libya) immediately, the statement by the Libya parliament stated.

If the massacres committed by the Zionist enemy do not stop, we demand that the Libyan government suspend the export of oil and gas to the states that support it, it read.

Libyas parliament has also denounced in the strongest terms the actions of the governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Italy.

It said these nations support the Zionist entity in its crimes in the Gaza Strip, while their leaders lecture on human rights and the right of peoples to self-determination.

After the fall of Moamer Kadhafi in a popular uprising in 2011, Libya, riven by fratricidal violence and division, has been governed by two rival entities.

The Tripoli-based government led by Abdulhamid Dbeibah is recognised by the United Nations, while authorities in Libyas east are backed by Haftar, a veteran of the Kadhafi-era army.

Libyans have rallied across the country in solidarity with Palestinians since the latest war broke out, particularly following a deadly hospital blast in Gaza on October 17 which Hamas has blamed on Israel. The Israeli military said the explosion was caused by a misfired Palestinian rocket.

On October 7, Hamas terrorists launched an attack on Israel killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians. Israel has since been bombarding Gaza Strip.

The Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza says that Israels strikes have killed more than 6,500 Palestinians, also mainly civilians.

With inputs from AFP
Republican Mike Johnson is the new speaker of the House, but the ally of Donald Trump inherits many of the same political problems that have tormented past GOP leaders, tested their grasp of the gavel and eventually chased them out of office.

When the House convenes Thursday it will be a bustle of activity, making up for lost time during the weeks of chaos since the ouster of Kevin McCarthy. But the goodwill toward Johnson blurs the political fault lines challenging the Louisianans ability to lead the GOP majority as it faces daunting issues ahead.

By Nov. 17, the Congress must fund the government again or risk a federal shutdown. President Joe Biden wants an additional $105 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Israel and Ukraine. And Republicans are eager to resume their impeachment inquiry into Biden over his sons business dealings.

This has been a grueling process, Johnson said Wednesday after he took the gavel. The challenge before us is great but the time for action is now, and I will not let you down.

Johnson, 51, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put the past weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn into office, second in line to the presidency.

A lower-ranked member of the House GOP leadership team, Johnson emerged as the fourth Republican nominee in what had become an almost absurd cycle of political infighting since McCarthys ouster as GOP factions jockeyed for power.

While not the partys top choice for the gavel, the deeply religious and even-keeled Johnson has few foes and an important GOP backer: Trump.

Hes a tremendous leader, Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the former president, who is now the Republican front-runner for president in 2024, is on trial over a lawsuit alleging business fraud. Hes going to make us all proud.

Biden called to congratulate the new speaker and said its time for all of us to act responsibly to fund the government and provide aid for Ukraine and Israel.

We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

In the House, far-right members had refused to accept a more traditional speaker, and moderate conservatives didnt want a hard-liner. But the affable Johnson, who has been in office less than a decade, drew lawmakers together through his evangelical faith, his conservative roots and Trumps nod after more seasoned leaders had failed.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who led the small band of eight hardliners who ousted McCarthy, said, You watch and see how much this House of Representatives can actually get done under Mike Johnson.

Democrats quickly criticized Johnson as an extreme conservative, a strict opponent of abortion access and an architect of Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

Republicans have chosen a MAGA acolyte to push an extreme agenda in the House at the expense of middle-class families, said Rep. Suzan DelBene, the chair of the Democrats campaign committee, referring to Trumps Make America Great Again campaign slogan.

Anxious and exhausted, Republican lawmakers are desperately trying to move on.

Lawmakers quickly reconvened to get back to work, approving a resolution saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. Next, they turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Rather than take a scheduled work period at home, the Republicans rearranged the House calendar to return to Washington next week and keep pushing through the various government funding bills ahead of the Nov. 17 deadline.

In a letter to colleagues, Johnson outlined priorities that include providing a stopgap government funding bill, into next year, to prevent a November shutdown  almost the same move that led to McCarthys ouster.

And while Johnson has spoken of the importance of helping fund Israel in the fight against Hamas, he has shown little interest in providing additional money for Ukraine as it battles Russia into the brutal winter months.

Most Republicans voted against the budget deal McCarthy struck with Biden earlier this year, demanding steeper spending cuts than the levels they agreed to. Johnson will need to navigate the far-right demands with the realities of keeping the government functioning.

Similar Republican infighting chased former GOP speakers John Boehner, Paul Ryan and Newt Gingrich to early departures. The difference now is that Republican rules allow any single lawmaker to force a vote to remove the speaker from office, the threat that ultimately ousted McCarthy.

Johnsons rise comes after a tumultuous month, capped by a head-spinning Tuesday that within a span of a few hours saw one candidate, Rep. Tom Emmer, the GOP whip, get nominated and then quickly withdraw after Trump bashed his nomination.

Overnight, the endorsements for Johnson started pouring in, including from the failed speaker hopefuls. Rep. Jim Jordan, the hard-charging Judiciary Committee chairman backed by Trump, gave his support, as did Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the fellow Louisiana congressman rejected by Jordans wing, who stood behind Johnson after he won the nomination.

A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson had rallied Republicans around Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 election results.

The congressman, who drew on his Christian beliefs, said to the American people watching, Our mission here is to serve you well and to restore the peoples faith in this House.
Pakistan is setting up deportation centers for migrants in the country illegally, including an estimated 1.7 million Afghans, officials said Thursday. Its the latest development in a government crackdown to expel foreigners without registration or documents.

Anyone found staying in the country illegally from next Wednesday will be arrested and sent to the deportation centers.

Jan Achakzai, a spokesman for the southwestern Baluchistan government, said three deportation centers are being set up. One will be in Quetta, the provincial capital.

Azam Khan, the caretaker chief minister for the northwest Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, said the region will have three deportation centers. More than 60,000 Afghans have returned home since the crackdown was announced, he said.

He said migrants who are living in the country illegally should leave before the Tuesday deadline to avoid arrest.

Pakistans caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti has said there will be no deadline extension.

The country hosts millions of Afghans who fled their country during the 1979-1989 Soviet occupation. The numbers swelled after the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in August 2021.

Pakistan says the 1.4 million Afghans who are registered refugees need not worry. It denies targeting Afghans and says the focus is on people who are in the country illegally, regardless of their nationality.

There has been widespread condemnation of the crackdown.

Last week, a group of former US diplomats and representatives of resettlement organisations urged Pakistan not to deport Afghans who are waiting for US visas under a program that relocates at-risk refugees fleeing Taliban rule.

The UN issued a similar appeal, saying the crackdown could lead to human rights violations, including the separation of families.
US President Joe Biden has said that he is convinced that one of the reasons why Hamas launched a terrorist attack on Israel was because of the recent announcement during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region with a network of railroad.

Israel has launched a massive counter-offensive against Hamas after unprecedented attacks by the militant group on 7 October killed more than 1,400 people.

Biden told reporters at a joint news conference with the visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that his analysis is based on his instinct and does not have any proof for this.

Im convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We cant leave that work behind, Biden said.

This is the second time in less than a week that Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a potential reason for the terrorist attack by Hamas.

The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.

The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe.

Biden said in the past few weeks, he has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure theres real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well.
Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir said on Thursday that the security of each Pakistani is of paramount importance and cannot be compromised as he highlighted the imminent deportation of thousands of illegal immigrants.

He addressed the participants of a National Security Workshop, who visited the GHQ in Rawalpindi and briefed them about regional and internal security dynamics and the national security environment.

According to a statement by the army, the army chief spoke on the subject of repatriation and deportation of illegal immigrants and highlighted the security of every Pakistani.

Safety and security of each Pakistani is of paramount importance which cannot be allowed to be compromised at any cost, he said.

The Pakistan government on Thursday said it has set up holding centres across the country and finalised a plan to deport illegal immigrants, including an estimated 1.7 million Afghans, by the October 31 deadline.

Earlier this month, Pakistan gave an ultimatum to all undocumented immigrants, including 1.7 million Afghan nationals, to leave Pakistan by the deadline, or else, risk imprisonment and deportation.

The army chief also highlighted the economic positivity generated by multiple proactive steps, especially the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) which is a civil-military hybrid forum to make key economic decisions to revive the ailing economy.

He told the participant that the armed forces and other security and intelligence setups have fought the menace of terrorism in an exemplary manner despite sustained and varied support of inimical forces.

He also emphasised that intelligentsia and civil society have a greater responsibility to ensure that our people, especially youth stay aware and steadfast against hostile propaganda onslaught being launched through soft offensive against the state institutions of Pakistan.

The army is fully engaged in enabling National and Provincial responses in different domains in step with other institutions of the state for the collective good of the people of Pakistan, he said.
Slovakias new populist Prime Minister Robert Fico said Thursday that his government was stopping military aid to Ukraine.

Fico told MPs that the country would no longer supply weapons to Ukraine, repeating promises made during his election campaign, but would still supply humanitarian aid to its war-torn neighbour.

I will support zero military aid to Ukraine An immediate halt to military operations is the best solution we have for Ukraine. The EU should change from an arms supplier to a peacemaker, he added.

Fico  who will attend the EU summit in Brussels Thursday  also expressed opposition to sanctions against Russia.

I will not vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia, he said.

If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them.

Fico spoke a day after his three-party coalition government was appointed.

It includes Ficos left-wing Smer-SD, the far-right and pro-Russia SNS and Hlas-SD, a breakaway party from Smer.

Smer-SD won last months general vote on pledges to end military help for Ukraine, raising concerns about cracks in Western support for Kyiv.

Following his partys victory, Fico said, the people in Slovakia have bigger problems than (dealing with) Ukraine and called for peace talks as further killing will not help anyone.

Coalition partner SNS shares Ficos staunch anti-refugee rhetoric and populist leanings.

Its pro-Russian chairman and former parliamentary speaker Andrej Danko said in July that Russian-occupied territories were not historically Ukrainian.

He is infamous for shaking hands with Russian President Vladimir Putin, taking a selfie with Russian State Duma Chair Vyacheslav Volodin, and addressing Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov as my dear friend.
South Koreas constitutional court upheld a law prohibiting same-sex relationships within the armed forces on Thursday.

The court justified its decision by citing the potential risk it posed to the militarys combat readiness. This ruling, however, has been criticised by activists who view it as a setback for gay rights.

According to the countrys military criminal act, members of the armed forces can face imprisonment of up to two years for engaging in same-sex relationships.

This law has been challenged and upheld by the court on four occasions since 2002. The courts ruling maintained that permitting same-sex relations could undermine military discipline and compromise its combat capabilities.

Rights groups have been urging the court to scrap what they termed an outdated and bad law, after the Supreme Court last year overturned a military courts conviction of two soldiers sentenced to suspended prison terms for a consensual same-sex relationship.

Activists said the law fuels violence and discrimination against and stigmatization of gay soldiers.

This continued endorsement for the criminalization of consensual same-sex acts within the Korean military is a distressing setback in the decades-long struggle for equality in the country, Boram Jang, Amnesty Internationals East Asia researcher, said in a statement after Thursdays ruling.

South Korea has one of the worlds largest active armies, with all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 required to serve between 18 and 21 months.
Spain said on Thursday it would create additional emergency accommodation for 3,000 undocumented migrants in military barracks, hotels and hostels amid a 55% jump in arrivals by sea this year, which has triggered political tension in the country.

Migrations Minister Jose Luis Escriva told reporters the government had approved using two military facilities in Madrid and plans to use two others in the south of the country.

Escriva declined to disclose how many additional beds will be created, but a ministry source told Reuters it would be around 3,000 in total.

The arrivals surge has been mainly driven by people coming from West Africa on dinghy boats to the Canary Islands in the Atlantic and comes after European Union countries sealed a deal on October 4 on how to handle irregular immigration. Italy has also experienced an uptick in arrivals, with the small island of Lampedusa struggling to cope with it.

Between January to mid-October, arrivals to the Canaries reached 23,537 people, already surpassing the full-year figures for each of the previous three years, official data shows.

Local authorities have said they feel abandoned by the central government. Madrid opened new camps in the archipelago in 2021 following an increase in arrivals.

But this time the central governments approach has been to expand emergency accommodations across the country, hoping to ease pressure on the Canaries. It also approved this week a 50-million-euro ($52.66 million) aid package for the islands.

Following police screenings, migrants will be placed in the military barracks, hotels, hostels and other types of accommodations on a voluntary basis, the ministry source said. The idea is for them not to stay in the same place for more than three months.

Madrids conservative regional leader Isabel Diaz Ayuso accused the leftist government of mismanaging the migration situation and suggested, without providing evidence, that the transfer of migrants to the mainland could compromise security.

Escriva argued the situation was well-handled and manageable, and said some conservative politicians were whipping up what he called xenophobic rhetoric.
A Swedish court said on Thursday that it had acquitted a man of illegally transmitting cutting-edge technology to Russias military services and spying on Sweden and the US on behalf of Russia.

Both a Swedish and a Russian citizen, Sergey Skvortsov was charged in August with egregious illicit intelligence operations against both countries from 2013 until 2022.

Skvortsovs business, according to the indictment, served as a conduit for Russias unauthorised acquisition of Western technology, helping it get around sanctions and bolster its military might.

In a statement, the Stockholm District Court noted that while it had determined that Skvortsov, through his company, had generally behaved as the prosecution had claimed, it had not established that this amounted to espionage.

Nothing has emerged other than the activity having been solely intended for technology acquisition, and not aimed at obtaining information that could constitute espionage, it said.

(With agency inputs)
Taiwans defence ministry said it had detected 15 Chinese air force planes entering Taiwans air defence zone on Thursday morning, including fighter jets and drones, accompanying Chinese warships carrying out combat readiness patrols and drills.

9 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected by 6 a.m.(UTC+8) today. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond. pic.twitter.com/RYtItRE8Hm   Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C.  (@MoNDefense) October 26, 2023

Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has repeatedly complained over the past four years of Chinese military activity around the island.
It looks like any other scrappy Tel Aviv tech start-up, with staff in hip clothing huddled around laptops and downing espressos, but they are the volunteers in a war room assembled to help Israel bring home the hostages.

Gunmen from the Islamist Hamas seized more than 220 people  including Israelis, foreigners and dual-nationals  when they stormed across Gazas border with Israel on October 7 and, according to Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people.

Within days, as Israel launched reprisal strikes that the health ministry in the Hamas-run Gaza Strip says have now killed more than 6,500 people, volunteers from Israels thriving tech sector teamed up to lend a hand in the hostage crisis.

We are a civilian war room. Our main purpose is to save lives, said Refael Franco, 48, the chief executive of Code Blue  a cyber crisis management firm leading the effort at Gitam BBDO communications group in Tel Aviv.

We collect. We compare. We deliver, Franco explained with a brand-ready slogan, as he pored over detailed, digital maps of Gaza dotted with colour-coded markers linked to specific information about the captives.

For years, Israels tech sector has emerged as a formative pillar underpinning the countrys economy, with cyber security firms in particular serving as a powerful driver of growth and innovation.

Seemingly overnight, volunteers from the sector began meeting at the Gitam groups offices where they pooled their expertise with artificial intelligence and innovative platforms to assist in identifying the missing in the aftermath of the Hamas attacks.

In this makeshift response centre, volunteers have spent days combing through the deluge of social media posts across myriad platforms to gather information about the captives.

After amassing a database of images from social media in tandem with photos provided by families of the missing and kidnapped, the team then feeds the evidence into artificial intelligence software specialising in facial recognition.

With assistance from experts in geolocating, programmers, and Arabic speakers, the team has rapidly pieced together an emerging picture of who was abducted, when they were last seen and where.

The information is then shared with the Israeli militarys special unit overseeing the hostage crisis, with around 60 captives successfully identified by the team to date.

Mobilisation

The tech communitys reaction to the hostage crisis represents just a microcosm of the sweeping mobilisation happening across Israel, with the young and old volunteering en masse to support affected families, soldiers and a range of other response efforts after the October 7 attacks.

The hostage crisis has been particularly haunting.

Amid the trauma unleashed by the Hamas massacre, the hostage crisis remains an open wound, fuelling anxiety and uncertainty during what Israeli leaders say will be a long war with the militant group.

People here left their jobs. There are CEOs and CTOs and founders of companies that put everything aside and just came here to help, said Ido Brosh, a 24-year-old volunteer programmer at Gitam BBDO with expertise in military intelligence.

Its horrible that this event made us so unified, but thats also the beauty of this country. In times of crisis, we come together.

But even as the tech community pools its resources to help with the hostage response, the agony for the families of those held captive remains excruciating.

For 82-year-old Holocaust survivor Tsili Wenkert, the abduction of her grandson, Omer Weknert, from a music festival in southern Israel near the border with Gaza has brought an unending torrent of pain.

What Ive been through in the past is small. Im now living through a nightmare, she told AFP.

Its very hard for a grandmother at my age to know her grandson is a captive.

The 22-year-old was last seen in footage posted on a Hamas-linked Telegram channel, showing him stripped to his underwear and bound in the back of a truck filled with armed militants, celebrating as they returned to Gaza.

Bring her back

Just four hostages have been released to date, thanks in part to backchannel negotiations involving Egypt and Qatar.

Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, was among those freed. Following her release this week, she told reporters from a wheelchair that she was led through a spider web of tunnels under Gaza, where she was held with other captives.

The presence of the hostages will likely complicate the widely anticipated ground offensive by the Israeli army following weeks of air strikes across the besieged Gaza Strip.

But even amid the exhaustion and trauma triggered by the October 7 attacks, the ongoing hostage crisis has stirred resolve in many.

For Omri Marcus, a creative director working on a campaign to battle misinformation at Gitam BBDO, the project is personal.

Marcus pointed to the wallpaper image on his laptop  a picture of his best friends cousin who is among the kidnapped. The photo, he said, serves as a constant reminder of the mission at hand.

Shes now in Gaza, he said. And we need to bring her back.
Turkeys health minister said on Thursday that he had urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to guarantee the provision of medical services to Gazans hit by the Israel-Hamas war, and that its efforts so far were insufficient.

NATO member Turkey has so far sent nine cargo planes of aid to Egypt for the Gaza Strip, and offered to set up a field hospital in Egypt to help treat the wounded and fly some to Turkey if necessary. It has condemned Israels attacks on the Palestinian enclave and called for an immediate ceasefire to allow more humanitarian aid in.

Turkish Health Minister Fahrettin Koca said he had reminded WHO director general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus in a letter sent on Wednesday of the WHOs professional responsibility to help civilians in need and told him that its efforts should be much greater than what you have done so far.

WHO, with its responsibility of leadership and by taking necessary initiatives urgently, must ensure the safety of healthcare provisions in Gaza, Koca wrote in the letter, which he posted on X, formerly Twitter.

The WHO did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Turkey has toughened its criticism of Israel as the fighting and humanitarian crisis in Gaza have intensified.

Many of its NATO allies and the European Union consider the Hamas militants who run the Gaza Strip a terrorist organisation.

But on Wednesday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said Hamas was a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands and people, while slamming Western countries for their support of Israel.
Britain will set up the worlds first artificial intelligence safety institute, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Thursday, ahead of a global summit next week that he has convened to examine the risks of the technology.

The institute will examine, evaluate and test new types of AI so that we understand what each new model is capable of, exploring all the risks from social harms like bias and misinformation through to the most extreme risks, he said.

Britain is bringing together AI companies, political leaders and experts at Bletchley Park on Nov. 1-2 to discuss what some see as an existential danger posed by AI, with the aim of building an international consensus on its safe development.

Sunak wants Britain to be a global leader in AI safety, carving out a role after Brexit between the competing economic blocs of the United States, China and the European Union.

Around 100 participants will discuss subjects including the unpredictable advances of AI and the potential for humans to lose control of it, according to the agenda.

Sunak said that while AI will boost economic growth, advance human capability and solve problems once thought beyond us, it also brings new dangers and new fears.

The responsible thing for me to do is to address those fears head-on, giving you the peace of mind that we will keep you safe, while making sure you and your children have all the opportunities for a better future that AI can bring, he said.

The UK government has published a report on frontier AI, the cutting-edge general-purpose models that the summit will focus on.

The report will inform discussions about risks such as societal harms, misuse and loss of control, the government said.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis are on the guest list next week.

China is expected to attend, deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said on Thursday, while European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova has received an invitation.

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) economies, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, the United States and the European Union, in May called for adoption of standards to create trustworthy AI and to set up a ministerial forum dubbed the Hiroshima AI process.

With inputs from Reuters.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday rejected the misrepresentations of his remarks a day earlier on Palestinian grievances that infuriated Israel, which has vowed to retaliate against the world body.

I am shocked by misrepresentations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council  as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas, Guterres told reporters, without naming Israel.

Addressing a Security Council session on Tuesday, the UN chief, again without naming Israel, denounced the clear violations of international humanitarian law that we are witnessing in Gaza.

In remarks that especially outraged Israel, he said it was important to recognize the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum as the Palestinians have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation.

Guterres said Wednesday it was necessary to set the record straight, especially out of respect for the victims and their families.

I spoke of the grievances of the Palestinian people. And in doing so, I also clearly stated, and I quote: But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas.'

Israels outspoken ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, rejected the explanation and called on Guterres to resign.

He said that Israel would no longer automatically issue visas to UN officials who want to visit and accused other officials from the world body of having spread lies on the situation.

It is a disgrace to the UN that the secretary-general does not retract his words and is not even able to apologize for what he said yesterday, Erdan said in a statement.

Denouncing the original remarks on the vacuum, Erdan said, Every person understands very well that the meaning of his words is that Israel has guilt for the actions of Hamas or, at the very least, it shows his understanding for the background leading up to the massacre.

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen on Tuesday canceled a meeting with Guterres and angrily pointed his finger at him during the session, reading graphic accounts of civilians killed in the October 7 assault by Hamas.

Palestinian ambassador Riyad Mansour came to the defense of Guterres, saying the attacks against the former Portuguese prime minister were ridiculous and noting that the UN chief personally went to the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza.

Maybe today, he is the most popular man under the sun in all corners of the globe, Mansour told reporters.

We want such decisive leaders  that he does not waver when it comes for standing for justice, said Mansour, part of the Palestinian Authority which is run by Hamas rivals.

Hamas militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, and killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians who were shot, mutilated or burned to death on the first day of the raid, according to Israeli officials.

More than 6,500 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed across Gaza in relentless Israeli bombardments in retaliation for the attacks by the Palestinian Islamist militant group, according to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza.
Catholic bishops have announced that the Vatican has approved the beginning of the sainthood process for 35 Indians who were killed in 2008 during some of the worst anti-Christian violence in decades.

Following the 2008 death of a Hindu priest, hundreds of churches, prayer halls, Catholic-run schools, and houses in the state of Odisha were targeted by vengeful mobs, causing over 50,000 people to escape.

A group of 24 men and 11 women known by the church as the Kandhamal martyrs were among those slain.

The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) announced in a statement on Tuesday that Indias bishops decided in January to initiate the beatification process of the Kandhamal martyrs in response to a proposal made by Odisha archbishop John Barwa.

According to church law, beatification, which comes before canonization, proceeds more quickly if martyrdom is proven.

But before they may advance and become saints, there needs to be evidence of a miracle.

The bishops said that last week they had obtained a letter from Rome authorising them to begin investigating the life, virtues and sanctity of the organisation.

The Vatican has approved the process to begin the cause for the canonisation of Kanteshwar Digal and his companions, who were martyred for their faith, the CCBI said.

(With agency inputs)
A group of Jewish students had to hide from a screaming gathering of pro-Palestine demonstrators inside a college in New York City on Wednesday. They locked themselves in a library while the crowd pounded on the door.

On Wednesday afternoon, ugly scenes occurred at Cooper Union, a liberal institution in Manhattan close to Astor Place.

The mob first gathered in the buildings foyer, screaming Free, free Palestine.

However, they pushed through a security guard, who angrily exclaimed, No!

The Jewish students had taken refuge in the library, so they stormed up the stairs and banged on the door. Later, the individuals within the library were let free.

The Messenger said that the demonstration had been broken up and that no one was hurt. As per reports, NYPD made no arrests had occurred.

A pro-Palestine sign was torn down by a bystander outside the campus on Wednesday night. The placard was near to posters that highlighted the misery of individuals who had been kidnapped by Hamas.

Killing children is justified? the sign read.

NYPD cops were positioned outside and could be seen entering the building.

The Messenger was informed by Kim Newman, a college representative, that the library was temporarily closed as the demonstrators passed through the structure.

All of the students, she claimed, have become dispersed.

Student demonstrators passed through our building for about twenty minutes, during which time the library was closed, she stated.

During this time, a few students who had previously been in the library stayed. Now, every pupil has left the room.

The countrywide tension on campuses over the Israel-Hamas conflict is heightened by the student demonstration.
The Pakistan government on Thursday said it has set up holding centres across the country and finalised a plan to deport illegal immigrants, including an estimated 1.7 million Afghans, by the October 31 deadline.

Earlier this month, Pakistan gave an ultimatum to all undocumented immigrants, including 1.7 million Afghan nationals, to leave Pakistan by the deadline, or else, risk imprisonment and deportation.

Although the Pakistani government has maintained that the announcement of deportation was not restricted to Afghans and was applicable to all illegal immigrants, caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti did blame them on Thursday.

Illegal Afghan nationals were responsible for 14 of the 24 suicide bombings in the country this year. Safety and security of the people of Pakistan is the prime responsibility and foremost priority of the government, The News International quoted Bugti as saying at a press conference.

Urging illegal immigrants living in Pakistan to return to their countries voluntarily, Bugti said that the government had finalised the plan for repatriating such individuals, a Dawn News report said.

Stating that no compromise will be made as the deadline nears, Bugti said: Centres have been set up in various cities across the country to keep the illegal immigrants, while those leaving voluntarily will be helped to leave Pakistan.

It is a challenging task (but) Pakistan is determined to expel all illegal immigrants, Bugti was quoted by The International News as saying.

The decision (to expel all illegal immigrants) was taken in an apex committee meeting headed by caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar and attended by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, among others.

The committee also decided that movement across the border would be subject to passports and visas, while electronic Afghan identity cards (or e-tazkiras) would only be accepted until October 31.

The Dawn also quoted Bugti as saying that holding centres had been formed in the provinces as well as Islamabad, Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan and that illegal immigrants would be provided medical facilities and food.

Bugti also assured that women, children and the elderly would be treated with respect. So in the first stage, we will expel them. We have made holding centres for them. They will not be sent to jail [] and from the centre, they will be transported out of Pakistan, the Dawn said quoting the Interim Interior Minister.

He also announced the terms and conditions for the return of all such immigrants and said the state had done geo-fencing and identified areas where illegal immigrants were residing.

Bugti said that a drastic crackdown would be launched against the illegal immigrants, including Afghan nationals, who would be arrested and expelled to their native countries.

At least 4.2 million Afghan people were living in Pakistan, of which not less than three million were living illegally without any legal documents, he said.

Pakistan has been hosting Afghan refugees for the past four decades when millions of them fled Afghanistan during the 1979-1989 Soviet occupation.

After the October 5 announcement giving the October 31 deadline, especially to the Afghans, received widespread criticism, the Foreign Office clarified that the decision to deport illegal residents was not specifically targeted at the Afghan refugees but against all immigrants residing in the country illegally without valid visa documents.

Quoting Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, The International News said the national policy towards the Afghan refugees in the country remained unchanged and their safe repatriation was a separate issue.

The outlawed Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan or TTP, often claims attacks on Pakistani security forces. Pakistan has long demanded that the Taliban authorities in Afghanistan cease their support for the TTP.
Zambias finance ministry announced on Thursday that it had reached an agreement in principle on debt restructuring conditions with a creditor group holding its international bonds, marking a significant step forward in the countrys lengthy debt restructuring process.

The three existing bonds will be transformed into two new amortising bonds maturing in 2035 and 2053, with the 2035 note paying out higher interest sooner if Zambias economy performs better. According to the ministry, the agreement would result in an 18% nominal haircut.

The proposed restructure involves a $700 million write-off and $2.5 billion in cash flow assistance during Zambias $1.3 billion, 38-month IMF programme, authorised in September 2022.

Zambia was the first African country to default under COVID-19, in late 2020, and its restructuring process was plagued by delays. International bondholders also grumbled about being excluded from the process, which began with lengthy negotiations with bilateral creditors, notably China.

The agreement paves the way for similar restructuring agreements with our other private creditors, Zambias finance minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said in a separate statement.

We hope for the swift implementation of this agreement in principle by the end of the year.
HONOR has announced that its upcoming Magic6 smartphone will be powered by Qualcomms Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform. This collaboration aims to showcase the power of on-device large language models (LLM) with seven billion parameters, as unveiled at the Snapdragon Summit 2023 in Hawaii.

Human-Centric Collaboration

The collaboration between HONOR and Qualcomm Technologies aims to create a human-centric ecosystem for smart interactions across various devices. At the event, HONOR showcased numerous enhancements in MagicRing connectivity, highlighting the joint efforts of both companies.

Personalized Services with HONORs on-device LLM

HONORs on-device LLM is distinct from cloud-based LLMs. It tailors its services to individual users based on their preferences and device usage.

HONOR and Qualcomm Technologies focused on three key aspects: performance, efficiency, and user privacy. The outcome includes optimizations for power efficiency and robust data protection to safeguard user data.

Generative AI and AI Video Creation

HONOR Magic6, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, introduces an on-device LLM with seven billion parameters, marking a new era for generative AI. HONOR showcased an AI video creation demo, demonstrating the ability to create personalized videos with voice commands to the smart assistant YOYO.

Magic Capsule and MagicRing

At the event, HONOR demonstrated eye-tracking-based multimodal interaction known as Magic Capsule. They also highlighted three key features of MagicRing: Connected Camera, Connected Input, and multi-device screen sharing, all enabled by the latest Snapdragon Seamless technology.

Commitment to On-Device AI

HONOR announced its commitment to collaborate with global partners, fostering an ecosystem of on-device AI technology, and contributing to the industrys evolution with human-centric innovations for a smarter future.

Speaking at event, George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co. Ltd. said:

At HONOR, our unwavering commitment is to pioneer innovation and shape a smarter, more intuitive user experience. Were dedicated to leveraging AIs potential to redefine how people engage with technology, ensuring it becomes increasingly seamless, personalized, and impactful in their lives, all while safeguarding user privacy. Our enthusiasm knows no bounds as we join hands with Qualcomm Technologies, united by a shared vision of pursuing human-centric excellence. Our journey of innovation continues, as we collaborate openly with partners to craft a future where AI empowers and enhances the lives of individuals worldwide.

Commenting on the partnership, Alex Katouzian, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Mobile, Compute and XR Devices, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. said:
Qualcomm introduced Snapdragon X Elite, the companys latest 4nm System-on-a-Chip with a 12-core Qualcomm Oryon CPU and an integrated Qualcomm Adreno GPU for PCs yesterday. It also announced PCs powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor will roll out starting mid-2024.

Today, it has announced several PC OEM partners will use the Snapdragon X Elite chip in their laptops. These include HP, Acer, ASUS, Dell, HONOR, Lenovo, Microsoft Surface, Samsung and Xiaomi.

Lenovo said that it will launch premium laptops powered by Snapdragon X Elite.

Yang Yuanqing, Chairman & CEO, Lenovo, said:

Our consumers and commercial customers will be able to utilize this powerful performance, long battery life, and on-device generative AI to enjoy the best experience and achieve the highest productivity. Together, Lenovo and Qualcomm Technologies will bring the next generation of AI experiences to our users.

Pavan Davaluri, Corporate Vice President, Windows & Devices, Microsoft, said:

Microsoft and Qualcomm Technologies have a long history together, and that collaboration has only become stronger over the years. We are building Windows to be the destination for the best AI experiences, and powerful NPUs, like the ones were creating, work with our Windows 11 AI ecosystem to change the way people experience AI for the better As we look forward to the future with Snapdragon X Elite and Windows 11, we will deliver faster and better performance, and emulation will get more efficient.

Matthew Leem, VP, Brand Marketing Group & Mobile eXperience Business, Samsung, said:

Samsung couldnt be more excited for Snapdragon X Elite. Together, weve been delivering world-class experiences, including leading performance per watt, groundbreaking AI features, and lightning fast 5G. With Snapdragon X Elite, we will enable our customers to push their imagination to the limit by tapping into transformative on-device intelligence for intuitive productivity assistance and automated workflows. With incredible battery life, users will be able to navigate demanding workflows with ease and be more efficient, collaborative, and creative than ever.

Qualcomm said that it has worked with several companies to optimize Snapdragon X Elite for their software and hardware.

Davinci Resolve is coming to ARM-powered Windows laptops

BlackMagic Design has also confirmed that it will launch Davinci Resolve for ARM-based Windows devices in 2024. The company said that it has been working with Qualcomm to optimize Davinci Resolve for the Snapdragon X Elite.

Davinci Resolves Magic Mask is 1.7x faster in Snapdragon X Elite than the premium 12-Core processor with an integrated GPU on Windows, and it is 3x faster in Snapdragon X Elite when running on NPU compared to the same processor, claims the company.
Handover ceremony for repatriation of Chinese cultural objects held in Australia

Xinhua) 08:15, October 26, 2023

A Buddhist gilt bronze figurine of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara is displayed at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

CANBERRA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects was held Wednesday in Australian capital Canberra.

The ceremony, held in the Chinese embassy in Australia, witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government.

The trio includes a Hyphalosaurus fossil, part of the Jehol Biota ecosystem of northeast China between 133 million and 120 million years ago, a Buddhist gilt bronze figurine of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, and a polychrome horse and rider figurine. Both of the latter two objects are from China's ancient times close to or during the Tang Dynasty.

There is also a sacrificial bronze wine vessel of Zun with features indicating craftsmanship of the Ming and Qing dynasties, donated by the National Gallery of Australia.

What's more, there is an object donated by John MacDonald, an Australian from Melbourne. It is a hairpin with a jade inlaid from the Qing Dynasty.

"Today's ceremony is a grand event for the cultural exchanges between China and Australia. As you can see, we gather here for the four cultural objects and one fossil in front of us, all of them are returned or donated by the Australian government, the National Gallery of Australia, and even by local Australian friend," Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian addressed the ceremony before signing the handover documents with Australian Minister for the Arts Tony Burke.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your invaluable contributions in this regard."

It is not the first time for the Australian government to return Chinese cultural objects. In 2015, the Australian side returned a Qing Dynasty Avalokiteshvara statue to China.

"We are very pleased to see the National Gallery of Australia has also joined our endeavor by donating a sacrificial bronze Zun for the first time. We hope this will become a new starting point for our future cooperation," Xiao said.

Xiao believed that, through joint efforts of the two sides, the relations between China and Australia will further improve and develop. In this process, cultural and artistic exchanges will definitely play an important role.

"Cultural exchange is not an exchange of what we have. It's an exchange and acknowledgment of who we are," Burke, in his speech, expressed his "deepest respect and I would say love of Chinese culture for a very long time."

The Australian minister introduced every object in detail, saying that Australians have a very strong view about returning stolen works. "I'm very proud while the items that are being returned today were stolen probably last century," he said that from the day they arrived and were seized by border force and authorities in Australia, the work could be done is leading to their return. "Australia does not believe that works like these should be anything other than returned."

"When we sign the documents, it's not Australia giving China or anything, (but) simply China taking something to which China was always entitled, which should never have been stolen," said Burke.

Nick Mitzevich, director of the National Gallery of Australia, said at the ceremony that the Gallery is looking forward to continuing to build stronger ties with the Chinese side.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian (L) signs handover documents with Australian Minister for the Arts Tony Burke at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

A polychrome horse and rider figurine is displayed at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

A Hyphalosaurus fossil, part of the Jehol Biota ecosystem of northeast China between 133 million and 120 million years ago, is displayed at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

A hairpin with a jade inlaid from the Qing Dynasty is displayed at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

A sacrificial bronze wine vessel of Zun with features indicating craftsmanship of the Ming and Qing dynasties is displayed at a handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra, Oct. 25, 2023. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

This photo taken on Oct. 25, 2023 shows the handover ceremony for the repatriation of Chinese cultural objects at the Chinese embassy in Australian capital Canberra. The ceremony witnessed five objects back to China. Among them, three are returned by the Australian government. (Photo by Chu Chen/Xinhua)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 launched in India with 700-day Battery Life, New Design News oi -Carlsen Martin

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 has now been officially introduced in the Indian market. It's worth noting that the global unveiling of the Samsung SmartTag2 took place earlier this month, shortly following the introduction of the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series tablets and the Galaxy Buds FE in India.

Let's delve into the details of the Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2, including its pricing, availability in India, and a comprehensive exploration of its specifications and features.

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 Pricing, Availability in India

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 price in India is set at Rs 2,799. The smart tag is offered in Black and White color options.

This latest Samsung smart tag is readily available for purchase through various e-commerce platforms, as well as at Samsung's official online stores and their exclusive physical outlets across India.

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 Features

The Galaxy SmartTag2 marks a significant advancement over its predecessors, the original Galaxy SmartTag launched in 2021 and the Galaxy SmartTag+ introduced in April of the same year.

The device boasts enhanced battery life, the introduction of the Compass View feature, a power-saving mode, a new Lost Mode, and more. Moreover, the SmartTag2 boasts a more compact elliptical form factor with a larger ring loop.

Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 Lost Mode

The new mode streamlines the process of assisting anyone who comes across the tag in locating the owner's contact information. Users can conveniently input their contact details via a message, enabling individuals who discover the tag to effortlessly scan it using their smartphone.

This scan reveals essential information, including the owner's contact details and their message. Importantly, this feature is compatible with smartphones equipped with an NFC reader and a web browser.

According to the release, "This means a Galaxy SmartTag2 attached to a pet's collar is now a convenient way to ensure the pet owner's phone number is always there, in most places where the pet might wander."

Compass View Feature

The Compass View feature on the Galaxy SmartTag 2 now displays arrows indicating the direction and distance of the Galaxy SmartTag2 in relation to the user. It's important to note that this feature is exclusively available on UWB-supported Galaxy smartphones. Samsung has enhanced Compass View to provide an improved user experience.

SmartThings Find App Enhancements

The SmartThings Find app has been updated to include newly registered Galaxy SmartTags, creating a convenient shortcut on the user's smartphone. Additionally, the app offers a full-screen map view and introduces a new pet walking mode.

Other Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 Features

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag2 showcases a robust design with a sizable metal loop, ensuring greater durability. This design allows for the attachment of accessories like clips and keyrings. Furthermore, it features an IP675 rating for water and dust resistance.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), UWB, and Augmented Reality (AR). Given its maximum Bluetooth range of 120 meters, it can also be employed to control home appliances through the SmartThings app.

For privacy and security, an owner's information and message are promptly concealed when Lost Mode is deactivated. The battery life on the Galaxy SmartTag 2 is touted to last 700 days thanks to a new power saving mode.

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Qualcomm's Snapdragon Seamless Aims to Revolutionize Cross-Platform Device Connectivity News oi -Kabir Jain

In today's world, where we are surrounded by a multitude of smart devices, cross-platform compatibility has often been a problem, leaving users tied to a specific brand or ecosystem. However, Qualcomm is looking to change this with its groundbreaking technology, Snapdragon Seamless, which promises to bring a new level of integration and connectivity to a wide range of smart devices.

Bridging the Cross-Platform Gap

At the Snapdragon Summit held in Hawaii, Qualcomm made waves by unveiling its ambitious Snapdragon Seamless technology. This cross-platform solution aims to break down the barriers between various brands, operating systems, and device types, providing users with the freedom to use devices without brand restrictions.

The vision is clear: Snapdragon Seamless is designed to allow Android, Windows, and Snapdragon-powered devices to discover each other and function as an integrated system. Much like the seamless connectivity experienced within a single brand's ecosystem, Snapdragon Seamless will transcend brand, OS, and platform boundaries.

Collaboration with Tech Giants

Qualcomm isn't going alone. The company has partnered with industry giants such as Microsoft, Android, Xiaomi, ASUS, Honor, Lenovo, and OPPO to bring this vision to life. Devices from these brands will be among the first to harness the power of Snapdragon Seamless, promising users a harmonious multi-device experience.

What Snapdragon Seamless Offers

Snapdragon Seamless opens up a world of possibilities for users, ensuring that their devices work together seamlessly. Here are some key features and benefits of this transformative technology:

Unified Control: Mice and keyboards will work seamlessly across mobile phones, PCs, and tablets, making multitasking across devices more efficient.

Effortless Data Transfer: Files and windows can be effortlessly dragged and dropped across different types of devices, streamlining the exchange of information.

Intelligent Audio Switching: Earbuds will intelligently switch between devices based on the priority of the audio source, enhancing the user experience.

Centralized Management: Users will be able to manage all connected devices from a single interface, monitor battery levels, and even lock/unlock paired devices.

Low Latency and Power Efficiency

Seamless intercommunication must be both fast and power-efficient to truly benefit users. Qualcomm has taken these factors into account, ensuring that Snapdragon Seamless offers low latency and minimal power consumption. This ensures that users can enjoy a fluid and uninterrupted cross-device experience without compromising on battery life or performance.

Expanding the Ecosystem

Snapdragon Seamless is initially compatible with a range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, earbuds, tablets, and smartwatches. However, Qualcomm has plans to expand the technology to Extended Reality (XR), Automotive (Auto), and Internet of Things (IoT) platforms in the future. This expansion will further enhance the reach and utility of Snapdragon Seamless, making it a cornerstone of future cross-platform connectivity.

Compatibility with Qualcomm Processors

The newly announced Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Snapdragon X Elite, and Snapdragon S7 and S7 Pro Gen 1 processors are fully compatible with Snapdragon Seamless. This means that we can anticipate devices powered by these processors to offer seamless cross-platform technology support in the near future, promising a new era of device integration and user convenience.

Via

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Xiaomi 14 Series with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC Launching Today: What to Expect News oi -Carlsen Martin

Xiaomi is set to launch a new flagship smartphone series in China later today. The Xiaomi 14 series is making its debut in China and will arrive as the first smartphones to use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC.

The line-up will include the Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro. Xiaomi has been slowly teasing details about its upcoming 14 series, including aspects of the phones' design.

Xiaomi 14 Series Launch: What we know so far!

The Xiaomi 14 series is launching in China later today at 07:00 pm local time or 04:30 pm (IST). The Xiaomi 14 series also recently showed up at Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit, where more details about the device were confirmed.

The Chinese tech giant confirmed that the Xiaomi 14 series will be the first smartphone to use the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. The new Xiaomi 14 series will feature a variable aperture camera, co-developed with Lecia.

w

It will be called the Leica Summilux lenses, which is being touted as the "best in the field" for smartphone photography, grants mobile devices unparalleled capture capabilities in all scenarios. The Xiaomi 14 series will feature the new HyperOS skin, which is replacing MIUI.

Xiaomi 14 Series Specifications

Xiaomi also recently took to Chinese social media platform Weibo, to reveal key details about the specifications and design of the Xiaomi 14 Series. The design of the Xiaomi 14 series appears to be the same as its predecessor. A white variant of the Xiaomi 14 was teased on Weibo.

Huge news!



The #Xiaomi14Series will be the first smartphone powered by our newly announced #Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 platform. https://t.co/8RERJVMvDR  Snapdragon UK (@Snapdragon_UK) October 25, 2023

The posters show a square-shaped camera module on the back with three lenses and what appears to be a stainless-steel frame. The Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro are said to feature three 50 MP camera sensors co-developed with Leica. The company also posted sample shots taken on the Xiaomi 14.

Moreover, rumors also suggest that the Xiaomi 14 series will feature a 2K OLED display with an impressive peak brightness of 3,000 nits. The Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro will also feature sizeable batteries as well as super-fast wired and wireless charging support. The Xiaomi 14 series will also likely feature an IP rating for dust and water resistance.

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Prosecutors have rested, setting the stage for Sam Bankman-Fried to tell a jury at a New York criminal trial his version of how his multibillion dollar cryptocurrency empire collapsed, causing billions of dollars in losses that the government blames on him
Haitian Gang Leader Charged with Hostage Taking Offenses that Resulted in the Death of a U.S. Citizen in Haiti in October 2022

Tuesday, October 24, 2023

For Immediate Release

Office of Public Affairs

An indictment, filed in the District of Columbia, was unsealed today charging Vitel'homme Innocent, a Haitian national and leader of the Kraze Barye gang, for his alleged role in the October 2022 armed hostage taking, in Haiti, of two U.S. citizens, one of whom was killed during the event.

According to the indictment, Innocent and the Kraze Barye gang operate in the Ouest department of Haiti to include Delmas, Torcelle, and Tabarre. The gang actively participates in kidnappings for ransom, extortion, and car thefts.

Innocent ordered gang members to kidnap Jean Franklin and Marie Odette Franklin from their home in Haiti on Oct. 7, 2022. On that date, armed gang members forced entry into the Franklin residence and attempted to kidnap the couple by force. During the kidnapping, Marie Odette Franklin was shot and killed by the gang members. Her husband was taken into captivity and held at an undisclosed location in Haiti. While Jean Franklin was in captivity, Innocent participated in ransom negotiations in exchange for Jean Franklin's release. Jean Franklin was released from captivity on Oct. 28, 2022, following ransom payments made to the gang on behalf of his family.

"As alleged in the indictment, Vitel'homme Innocent, a leader of the Kraze Barye gang in Haiti, directed gang members to kidnap two American citizens for ransom, ultimately resulting in the death of one of the victims," said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. "The Justice Department is vigorously pursuing those who harm or endanger Americans living in Haiti."

"We remain steadfast in our mission to hold those responsible for violent crimes committed against U.S. citizens in Haiti," said U.S. Attorney Matthew Graves for the District of Columbia. "The gangs and gang leaders in Haiti must be held accountable for their atrocities committed against innocent civilians. We will utilize all methods at our disposal to apprehend and prosecute those who commit such heinous acts."

"The indictment unsealed today demonstrates the FBI's commitment to follow the evidence wherever it leads and to work our way up to the leaders of criminal plots wherever they are," said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office. "Neither time nor distance will weaken our resolve. We will use all tools available and go to the farthest reaches of the globe to bring to justice those who seek to harm Americans."

Innocent remains at large and is believed to reside in Tabarre, Haiti. Innocent faces additional charges in the District of Columbia related to his role in the kidnapping of 16 U.S. citizens in the Fall of 2021, for which he was indicted. In the fall of 2022, the U.S. State Department announced a reward offer of up to $1 million for information leading to the arrest and/or conviction of Vitel'homme Innocent. The reward is being offered under the Transnational Organized Crime Rewards Program.

If convicted, Innocent faces a maximum penalty of life in prison or could face the death penalty. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case, with assistance fromthe FBI Legal Attache Office in Haiti and the State Department's Diplomatic Security Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack F. Korba with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Michael Watts for the District of Columbia.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendant are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Components: Office of the Attorney General

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

USAO - District of Columbia

Press Release Number: 23-1185

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Child casualties in Gaza "a growing stain on our collective conscience"

UNICEF

UNICEF is calling for an immediate ceasefire and for sustained and unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance

24 October 2023

NEW YORK/AMMAN, 24 October 2023 - Over the past 18 days, the Gaza Strip has borne witness to a devastating toll on its children, with a reported 2,360 fatalities and a reported 5,364 injuries due to unrelenting attacks, or more than 400 children reportedly either killed or injured daily. Additionally, more than 30 Israeli children reportedly have lost their lives, and dozens remain in captivity within the Gaza Strip. The 18-day period is the deadliest escalation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip and Israel that the UN has witnessed since 2006.

Almost every child in the Gaza Strip has been exposed to deeply distressing events and trauma, marked by widespread destruction, relentless attacks, displacement, and severe shortages of essential necessities such as food, water, and medicine.

"The killing and maiming of children, abduction of children, attacks on hospitals and schools, and the denial of humanitarian access constitute grave violations of children's rights," said Adele Khodr, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. "UNICEF urgently appeals on all parties to agree to a ceasefire, allow humanitarian access and release all hostages. Even wars have rules. Civilians must be protected - children particularly - and all efforts must be made to spare them in all circumstances."

The West Bank has also witnessed an alarming surge in casualties, with nearly a hundred Palestinians reportedly losing their lives, including 28 children, and at least 160 children reportedly sustaining injuries. Even before the tragic events of October 7, 2023, children in the West Bank were already grappling with the highest levels of conflict-related violence in two decades, resulting in the loss of 41 Palestinian children and six Israeli children's lives so far this year.

"The situation in the Gaza Strip is a growing stain on our collective conscience. The rate of death and injuries of children simply staggering," said Khodr. "Even more frightening is the fact that unless tensions are eased, and unless humanitarian aid is allowed, including food, water, medical supplies and fuel, the daily death toll will continue to rise."

Fuel is of paramount importance for the operation of essential facilities such as hospitals, desalination plants, and water pumping stations. Neonatal intensive care units house over 100 newborns, some of whom are in incubators and rely on mechanical ventilation, making an uninterrupted power supply a matter of life and death.

The entire population of the Gaza Strip, comprising nearly 2.3 million people, is facing a dire and pressing lack of water, which poses grave consequences for children, roughly 50 per cent of the population. The majority of water systems have been severely impacted or rendered non-operational due to a combination of factors, including fuel shortages and damage to vital production, treatment, and distribution infrastructure. Currently, the water production capacity is a mere 5 per cent of its usual daily output.

Vulnerable population groups are resorting to non-potable water sources, including high-salinity and brackish-quality water from agricultural wells. To compound the issue, the five Gaza wastewater treatment plants have ceased operations, primarily because of fuel shortages, leading to over 120,000 cubic meters of wastewater being discharged into the sea.

"The footage of children being rescued from beneath the rubble, injured and in distress, while trembling in hospitals as they await treatment, portrays the immense horror these children are enduring. But without humanitarian access, the deaths from attacks could be the tip of the iceberg," said Khodr. "The death toll will increase exponentially if incubators start to fail, if hospitals go dark, if children continue to drink unsafe water and have no access to medicine when they get sick."

To respond to the dire situation for children in the Gaza Strip, UNICEF is calling for:

An immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

All access crossings into Gaza to be opened for a safe, sustained and unimpeded access of humanitarian aid, including water, food, medical supplies, and fuel.

Urgent medical cases in Gaza to be allowed to leave or to be able to receive critical health services.

Respect and protection for civilian infrastructure such as shelters and schools, and health, electric, water and sanitation facilities, to prevent loss of civilian and children's lives, outbreaks of diseases, and to provide care to the sick and wounded.

#####

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USNMRTC Yokosuka, Government of Japan, Japanese Self Defense Force, US Army, and US Air Force hone interoperability at Big Rescue Kanagawa

US Navy

24 October 2023

From Gabriel Archer

OI, Japan -- On October 15 United States Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (USNMRTC) Yokosuka, Government of Japan, Japanese Self Defense Force (JSDF) Ground and Maritime branches, United States Army and United States Air Force tested interoperability while cementing partnership by participating in Big Rescue Kanagawa.

In coordination with the Kanagawa Prefecture and Oi Town Government Offices, the annual event showcased the capabilities of Allied partners in the occurrence of a simulated natural disaster. Over 15 military, civil, prefectural, and local organizations participated. The event served as a stage for Allied forces, civilian governments, and commercial industries to reinforce their collective commitment to public safety, effective communication, and successful operations in the case of natural disaster. USNMRTC Yokosuka sent doctors, nurses, corpsman and a moulage team to heighten realism and to prepare simulated causalities. All Allied partners worked together to triage, treat, and process exercise participants within the disaster scenario.

"The Medical Service Unit of Yokosuka and JSDF Hospital Yokosuka sent doctors and Corpsmen to join the exercise. They worked together with U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Japanese civilian medical teams to provide care within this simulated disaster scenario. During this type of event, it is imperative to construct and maintain face-to-face relationships to facilitate the essential care needed. In this exercise, the partnership between the U.S. military and JSDF was demonstrated and strengthened. JSDF would like to continue to reinforce our joint-partnership and prepare for the challenges ahead together," Rear Adm. Tsukazaki, Director of JSDF Hospital Yokosuka, Japan

"It was exciting to see the medical teams from the Army, Navy, and Air Force working in combined teams alongside our Japan Self Defense Force and civilian host nation medical partners to provide healthcare to the many simulated casualties at Big Rescue Kanagawa. This disaster drill significantly improved our interoperability with all participants and helped our Army medical team practice the skills that we will need for any future contingency operation." Colonel Jeremy D. Johnson, Commanding Officer MEDDAC-Japan

"We are extremely pleased to be asked to one of Japan's at largest rescue demonstrations this year," said USNMRTC Yokosuka Commanding Officer CAPT T. Blair Hines. "From coordination to execution, this event serves to strengthen our interoperability and reinforce vital partnerships with our Allies in the local community and increase our joint readiness."

USNMRTC Yokosuka provides healthcare services and ensures medical readiness to the INDO-PACIFIC area of responsibility covering nearly 9 million square kilometers (8,920,530.52 km). Our organization serves over 337,000 operational forces, including the U.S. Seventh Fleet, III Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Forces Japan, Marine Corps Installations Pacific, U.S. Forces Korea in the Republic of Korea, and Military Sealift Command in Diego Garcia in the British Indian Ocean Territory. USNMRTC Yokosuka provides a vast array of healthcare to our service-members, families, and Allied Forces from primary and specialty medical care to dental services. USNMRTC Yokosuka leads the AOR with breakthrough performances in healthcare delivery Key Performance Indicators and consistently implements innovative programs to deliver specialty healthcare services efficiently across vast distances.

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NATO tests new regional 'deterrence and defense' plans

By Troy Darr, U.S. Army NATO October 25, 2023

BRUNSSUM, Netherlands -- NATO ended its largest and most complex computer-assisted, command post exercise of the 21st century on Oct. 19.

Exercise Steadfast Jupiter 2023 included more than 7,000 personnel from 17 NATO nations and 24 multinational headquarters exercising every aspect of military operations from the strategic to the tactical levels.

"The future of warfare has become increasingly complex as highlighted by the crisis that is currently occurring on NATO's eastern flank," said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jennifer Gotie, U.S. senior Army officer at the Joint Force Training Centre in Bydgoszcz, Poland, who travelled to Brunssum to serve as an evaluator for the exercise and analyze how to improve multi-domain operations within the NATO force structure. "I have been given the unique opportunity to support the development of NATO multi-domain operations by bringing in over 10 years of U.S. Army MDO concepts."

The defensive exercise was designed to train and evaluate 24 training audiences located at 27 different locations in Europe and North America.

"Steadfast Jupiter 23 is important for U.S. national security because it allows us to maintain a presence with our NATO allies and assist them with the defense of NATO territory within Europe and deter our adversaries," said U.S. Army Maj. Thomas Artone, Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum, counter-improvised explosive device staff officer. "For the past week in Steadfast Jupiter 23 my section, the counter-IED section within the J3 has been focused on activities to attack the network, defeat the device, and prepare the force as well as counter other hybrid and UAS (unmanned aircraft system) scenarios."

The exercise was a "milestone in operationalizing the concept for the Deterrence and Defense of the Euro-Atlantic Area (DDA): a strategy for the short to medium term that enables allies to rapidly strengthen NATO's deterrence and defense posture in all domains," according to a press release published by NATO's Allied Command Transformation.

U.S. Army Col. Jason Lojka works as the director of the JFC Brunssum Joint All Domains Operations Center, the nexus for command and control of this four-star NATO headquarters in the heart of central Europe.

"This a Joint All Domain Operations Center (JADOC)," said Lojka, emphasizing joint and all domain. "We are working in all domains, so it's not just about land, air and maritime.

"We're talking cyber; we're talking space. The idea is that we're bringing everybody together in one location.

"The JADOC floor provides a tool for collaboration and synchronization across all domains, and it's not just with, for example, the Army from Estonia, it is all the armies within our current JOA," he said.

The exercise was based on a simulated Article 5 scenario. Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty is NATO's central precept that an attack against one ally is considered an attack against all allies.

The exercise tested NATO's responsiveness, command and control, and defense posture in a highly challenging multi-threat environment.

"It's been a very good exercise to challenge our systems, really test our systems and processes, not only for how we receive information, how we analyze information and how we distribute information not only to our higher headquarters but also painting the picture to our subordinates," said Lojka. "This is a great opportunity to help strengthen the alliance and to contribute to our overall security posture in relation to our regional plans and also the road going forward in regard to how the United States approaches security internationally."

Each of the 24 participating units had specific objectives for Steadfast Jupiter. One of JFC Brunssum's objectives was to help prepare the unit to take command and control of NATO's Response Force in 2024.

"With Steadfast Jupiter 23, we tested our proficiency to respond to any possible aggressor threatening the alliance," said Italian Army Gen. Guglielmo Luigi Miglietta, commanding general of JFC Brunssum. "It was a tiring, yet satisfying experience, and I thank my staff and all the participants for having successfully completed this intensive training, integrated across multiple levels. We have proven that NATO is fit to fulfil its task, which is to defend all members of our alliance."

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Canada provides additional humanitarian assistance funding in response to Nagorno-Karabakh crisis

Global Affairs Canada

News release

October 25, 2023 - Yerevan, Armenia - Global Affairs Canada

Canada is deeply concerned by the refugee crisis in Armenia as more than a hundred thousand individuals have fled from Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Honourable Melanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada is bringing its total response to the crisis to $3.9 million for humanitarian assistance funding. Minister Joly made the announcement during her visit to Armenia from October 25 to 27.

This includes an additional $1 million of funding allocated to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for life-saving assistance, such as protection services, shelter and other non-food items.

Canada continues to call for the unimpeded passage of humanitarian relief for civilians in need, in accordance with international humanitarian law. Civilians, including those on the move, must also be shielded from harm.

In addition, Canada will continue to work with its partners to mitigate the impacts on the civilians from the recent military operation of Azerbaijan in Nagorno-Karabakh, who have already been affected by months of blockade, and to find a sustainable, negotiated settlement in this conflict.

Canada continues to support a negotiated political solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict as well as the continuation of dialogue between the parties towards promoting confidence-building measures. Canada promotes the principles of the non-use of force, territorial integrity and self-determination in resolving the conflict.

Quotes

"Canada is grateful to Armenia for welcoming those fleeing this crisis. Host communities have generously opened their doors, but they alone cannot support this large influx of people seeking refuge. With this humanitarian support, Canada is helping address some of the most urgent needs." - Melanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

"Many people who have fled to Armenia are vulnerable, and with such a high volume of arrivals, the country is struggling to help the displaced populations. The funding announced today will go toward meeting the rising humanitarian needs and take some of the pressure off host communities." - Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

Quick facts

Today's announcement is in addition to funding provided by Canada to the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Canadian Red Cross Society's Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund, which has provided support to the relief operation of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Armenia. The Armenian Red Cross Society will use the funds to provide water, sanitation and hygiene services, shelter assistance and health services.

Canada has also provided funding to World Vision Canada through the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund. This funding will be used for the provision of gender-based hygiene kits, cash assistance, psychosocial support and protection assistance.

The funding announced today is complemented by the allocation of US $4 million by the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, to which Canada is a donor.

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October 25, 2023

Release

Interoperability Testing With Allies and Partners at Bold Quest 23 Denmark Concludes

The U.S. military joined allies and partners in Jutland, Denmark for Bold Quest 23 Denmark, hosted by the Danish Armed Forces. At the center of the joint exercise was interoperability of Identification Friend or Foe systems, which allow identification of friendly manned and unmanned aircraft and vessels.

The Denmark iteration followed Bold Quest 23, the Joint Staff sponsored joint and multinational demonstration and assessment in September. Bold Quest 23 Denmark operated out of the Danish Armed Forces Oksbol Barracks in southwestern Jutland, and air and maritime areas in the North Sea. Interoperability testing in Denmark was a Combined Joint All Domain Command and Control-related exercise that allowed the U.S., our allies, and partners to build trust, improve interoperability, and advance innovative and resilient capabilities - enhancing the overall effectiveness of combined force command and control.

"Ongoing collaboration with our allies and partners is essential to maintaining our military prowess," said Charleen Laughlin, Acting Director, Joint Staff J-6. "This iteration of Bold Quest focused on testing critical joint competencies that underpin our ability to prevent friendly-fire incidents, detect potential hostile activity, and ultimately strengthen command and control. Interoperability testing and other joint exercises allow us to assess and enhance capabilities off the battlefield so that we are prepared to effectively deter adversaries and preserve our decision advantage."

Collaboration, testing, and experimentation opportunities offered by Bold Quest enable joint operations and combat integration, and allow the U.S. to improve data exchange and information sharing in support of ongoing and future military operations.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Releases/Release/Article/3568470/

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Daily Recap: Hamas - Israel War October 25th, 2023 (19:30) - Day 19

IDF Press Release

Official IDF Daily Update

25.10.23

IDF

Field Notes from Lt. Col. Richard Hecht, IDF Spokesperson to International Media

Today a colleague shared a report Israel published in 2014, after Operation Protective Edge. The report documents - at length - the extent to which Hamas uses human shields. It includes a long list of rockets fired from inside UN facilities and kindergartens, pictures of tunnels and weapons found inside mosques and UNRWA schools, Hamas exploitation of ambulances for moving terrorists, and more.

Unfortunately, Hamas' intentional abuse of both Gazans and the institutions meant to serve them was mostly successful. Hamas learned that as long as they frame the shot right, the international community would condemn the right of a country to defend itself faster than it would condemn the underlying tactics used by the terrorist organization to attack the country in the first place.

Now, Hamas has seen that even after perpetrating a raid that massacred over one thousand civilians, it is not being labeled a terrorist organization by all, and that is even more dangerous.



This is not just Israel's war. I guarantee that terrorist organizations around the world are carefully watching this conflict, taking notes on what they can learn from Hamas. More importantly, they're carefully watching to see what they can learn from how the world responds.



Key Links

An audio recording of a terrorist calling his father to brag about the number of Israelis he killed while invading Israel on October 7 from operative







Similarly, this barbaric note found on a Hamas terrorist who had infiltrated Israel in the October 7th attacks, including the line "Know that this enemy of yours is a disease that has no cure, other than beheading and extracting the hearts and livers!"".









IDF footage of an IDF strike on a Hezbollah post in southern Lebanon following Hezbollah attacks (Video)





Arena Overview

Southern Arena

Israel Defense Forces activities against Hamas continued on Tuesday, combining offensive strikes against Hamas operatives and targets with a defensive strike on a terrorist cell that aimed to execute an attack on Israel.

In a joint ISA and IDF strike, the Commander of the North Khan Yunis Battalion of the Hamas terrorist organization, Taysir Mubasher was targeted, joining the list of senior Hamas operatives neutralized during the war. Mubasher has previously served as the Commander of Hamas' naval forces and held several positions in weapons manufacturing. He had been responsible for many attacks on Israel, including one on a religious seminar in Israel.

Strikes on other Hamas sites also continued, including a terror tunnel shaft, military command centers, weapon storage sites, mortar launches and anti-tank missile launch sites. In addition, Hamas' emergency governance apparatus, including war rooms and military headquarters, were targeted. This apparatus had directed Hamas' attempts to prevent civilians from evacuating .

Northern Israel

The IDF continues to carefully monitor the northern border, responding rapidly when threats are identified. Over the past day, seven anti-tank terrorist cells were targeted on the border with Lebanon, three of them in one hour. An IDF UAV also targeted two terrorist cells that had fired rocket and mortar shells toward IDF posts

in northern Israel.



Yesterday, two launches from Syria towards northern Israel were identified, landing in open areas. Following the launches, the IDF responded with artillery fire towards the source of the fire. In addition, IDF fighter jets struck Syrian Army military infrastructure and mortar launchers.

The Israeli Homefront

Rocket fire at the Israeli homefront continued. On Wednesday, rocket fire from Gaza was fired south, towards Eilat, as well as as far north as the Carmel area. No injuries were reported. 222 people are confirmed to remain abducted by Hamas in the Gaza Strip and 208 families of soldiers have been notified that their loved ones fell in action during the course of the war.

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Secretary General at NATO-Industry Forum: without industry there is no defence

NATO - North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

25 Oct. 2023

Addressing the NATO-Industry Forum in Stockholm on Wednesday (25 October 2023), Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg highlighted the vital link between NATO, Allies and industry when it comes to ensuring support to Ukraine, strengthening deterrence and defence, and maintaining the Alliance's technological edge.

Mr Stoltenberg stressed that while some investors "have the misguided idea that the defence industry is somehow 'unethical'" - there is nothing unethical about defending Allies or helping Ukrainian soldiers to defend their country. "Indeed, without industry, there is no defence, no deterrence and no security," he said.

NATO's relationship with industry has become more important than ever since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine last year. Many Allies have significantly depleted their stocks in order to support Ukraine, which will continue to need large quantities of high-quality capabilities to defend itself. The Secretary General said: "Now we need to ramp up production to meet Ukraine's needs, but also to strengthen our own deterrence and defence".

Mr Stoltenberg underlined that Allies have implemented the biggest reinforcement of our collective defence since the Cold War and increased defence spending. At the Vilnius Summit, Allies stepped up even more, including with a new Defence Production Action Plan to aggregate demand, boost capacity, strengthen engagement with industry and increase interoperability.

The Secretary General also stressed the importance of cooperating with the private sector on innovation, saying "NATO needs industry as we navigate a world shaped by disruptive new technologies. Technologies like artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, biotech and quantum are changing the character of conflict as much as the Industrial Revolution." This means that "we must constantly sharpen our technological edge by developing and adopting new technologies; cooperating with the private sector; shaping global standards; and embedding principles of responsible use that our democratic values enshrine."

This year marks the first time a NATO invitee nation has hosted the NATO-Industry Forum. The Secretary General said that this demonstrates how close Sweden already is to the Alliance, adding that he looks forward to welcoming Sweden as a full-fledged NATO Ally soon.



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US, allies hold naval exercise in South China Sea

The five-nation naval drills took place amid confrontation between Beijing and Manila in disputed waters.

By RFA Staff 2023.10.25 -- Warships from the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada and New Zealand took part earlier this week in a multilateral exercise following a recent spat between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea.

Exercise Noble Caribou was held on Oct. 23 in the area between Indonesia and Malaysia "to improve our tactical capabilities and strengthen cooperation," Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JDMSF) said in a statement.

Participating vessels included Japan's JS Akebono, the U.S. Navy's USS Rafael Perata, the Royal Australian Navy's HMAS Brisbane, the Royal Canadian Navy's HMCS Ottawa, and the Royal New Zealand Navy's HMNZS Te Mana.

Ship-tracking data analyzed by Radio Free Asia also shows two other U.S. naval ships - the USNS Rappahannock and USNS Henson - were also operating nearby, adding to the impressive show of force.

A day earlier Manila summoned the Chinese ambassador to the Philippines over two incidents near the Second Thomas Shoal, in which Chinese coast guard ships were accused of "dangerously maneuvering," causing collisions with Philippine ships.

China said Philippine vessels "trespassed" into its claimed waters.

"The participating countries in the exercise [Noble Caribou] are maritime nations with long coastlines in the Pacific Ocean, and are like-minded nations that seek to maintain an international order based on the rule of law in order to realize a Free and Open Indo-Pacific," Commanding Officer of JS Akebono Togawa Hisato said.

"We believe that through this multilateral exercise, we were able to improve our tactical capabilities and strengthen cooperation with the navies of the participating countries, as well as embody their strong will and ability to create a security environment that does not tolerate unilateral changes to the status quo by force," Togawa added.

The naval exercise "was likely planned long before the recent incidents but it is part of the US's anti-China strategy," said Mark Valencia, a senior research fellow at China's Huayang Institute for Maritime Cooperation and Ocean Governance.

"Countries should show more restraint in their actions, particularly in their military displays of power," Valencia told RFA, adding "I am not optimistic as this has become an ever deepening and spreading modus vivendi and will likely end badly."

China's position

The U.S. quickly spoke out in support of Manila over the incidents at the weekend, vowing to stand "with our Philippine allies in the face of the People's Republic of China (PRC) Coast Guard and maritime militia's dangerous and unlawful actions  in the South China Sea."

Washington said Article IV of the 1951 U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty "extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft - including those of its Coast Guard."

After the U.S. comments, France, South Korea, and Japan also voiced their support for the Philippines.

"In the South China Sea, China has actually exercised a lot of restraint," said retired Chinese Senior Col. Zhou Bo, who now serves as a senior fellow of the Center for International Security and Strategy at Tsinghua University in Beijing.

"We have been too soft on the Filipinos," Zhou told an international conference on the South China Sea in Ho Chi Minh City on Wednesday.

Chinese maritime experts have been critical of what they call "external forces" in South China Sea disputes.

Another Chinese analyst - Wu Shicun, president of China's National Institute for South China Sea Studies - said at the same conference in Vietnam that the U.S. and U.S.-led security groupings all "clearly target China."

"Removing the interference of external factors is the only way and only choice if we are to realize long-term peace and stability in the South China Sea," Wu said.

Retired Senior Col. Zhou shares a more hawkish view that China is the only country that would "respond militarily to American provocations."

"Probably China and the United States can only cool down after another collision at  sea or in the air, which I don't look forward to but there's no other answer to this problem," he said.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Kyrgyzstan's Latest Repressive Trend: Women Political Prisoners

By Chris Rickleton, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service October 25, 2023

BISHKEK -- This time last year, six women activists were among more than two dozen people arrested and jailed in a crackdown on dissent that marked a turning point for the rule of Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov.

They spent between three and eight months behind bars before being released into house arrest, as they await verdicts in a closed trial over what Japarov has insisted was a plot to overthrow the government.

The raids in October 2022 were the largest targeting government opponents since the eve of the 2010 revolution that overthrew Kyrgyzstan's second president -- Kurmanbek Bakiev -- one of three presidents overthrown in a turbulent three decades of independence.

But the jailing of women activists is a precedent that might have made even Bakiev's more hard-line administration squeamish.

Not the one, however, overseen by Japarov and his de facto co-ruler, national security chief Kamchybek Tashiev.

Earlier this month, authorities shrugged off a fresh outcry after detaining and imprisoning two residents of southern Kyrgyzstan -- a 70-year-old woman and a 44-year-old single mother -- on serious anti-constitutional charges.

Leila Nazgul Seiitbek, chairwoman of the Vienna-based, Central Asia-focused Freedom For Eurasia nonprofit, argues that this trend is likely to continue given what she called the ruling pair's determination to crush all forms of activism, which she argues "often has a female face" in Kyrgyzstan.

"In their own political struggles in the past, when they were in opposition, Japarov and Tashiev often relied on female activists," Seiitbek told RFE/RL. "They know very well that their activism can be very effective in terms of criticizing the authorities in the public space and organizing peaceful protests. Therefore, they consider them a real threat to their power."

A Water Reservoir And A Watershed Moment

Arrests with apparent political motivations are a well-established tradition in Kyrgyzstan, where crackdowns on the opposition -- and no shortage of corruption - have fueled political instability.

Yet for all that, Kyrgyzstan has retained a reputation as the only Central Asian country where political pluralism and civil society still exist.

The present regime has indicated that it views this fact as a hindrance rather than an achievement, with last year's crackdown serving as a clear demonstration of the new limits for political opposition.

The 25 or more arrests came as the government pushed to get a historic border deal agreed with Uzbekistan over the line with minimum fuss.

But news that the neighboring country would increase its control over the shared Kempir-Abad water reservoir inside southern Kyrgyzstan made the deal a political hot potato, spurring a string of protests.

In Bishkek, activists and opposition politicians established a Committee To Protect Kempir-Abad.

Not long after, members of the nascent committee who met in an Italian restaurant in Bishkek found themselves behind bars and formally accused of coup-plotting.

"What fool would talk about a coup d'etat in a restaurant, in a public place?" asked Klara Sooronkulova, a former constitutional court judge and NGO leader, in an interview with RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service.

Sooronkulova was one of several women jailed after that meeting and released with bail-like conditions in April of this year.

Rita Karasartova, a career rights defender and onetime presidential candidate, was kept behind bars even longer -- until the end of June.

Speaking to RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service ahead of the anniversary of the Kempir-Abad arrests, Karasartova said she drew strength from the courage of her next-door neighbor in confinement, Asiya Sasykbaeva, who was 71 at the time she was imprisoned with the others.

A longtime activist and former lawmaker, Sasykbaeva spent time in jail making salads for the other prisoners and teaching them Russian. She even helped a 24-year-old woman who had been wrongly sentenced walk free from jail.

"I thought, how can I complain about my health when [Sasykbaeva] is holding up so well?" Karasartova said.

Karasartova added that her eight-month stint has given her strength to face whatever punishment might come her way whenever the secretive coup-plot trial reaches its conclusion.

"We used to have concerns about what it would be like to be arrested," Karasartova said.

"Now, I wouldn't say we are brave, but we have stopped being afraid of prison," the activist said, vowing not to "shut [her] mouth."

'Number Of Victims Will Increase' If Anti-NGO Law Passed

In some ways, the arrests of the two women in southern Kyrgyzstan this month appear linked to the conflict over the Kempir-Abad water reservoir.

The younger woman, single mother Chynygul Sherkulova, is still in detention.

But it was the arrest of pensioner Saliya Tashtanova, finally released on October 17 after more than a week behind bars, that shocked so many people.

"In the history of Kyrgyzstan, there has never been such cases -- the arrest of elderly women," Dinara Oshurakhunova, a longtime civil society leader based in Bishkek, told RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service.

Both Sherkulova and Tashtanova face charges of calling for the violent overthrow of the government.

Tashtanova's accusation is rooted in a social media post that she addressed to Tashiev which railed against injustice and the increasing cost of living. But the pensioner is also understood to have participated in one of the original rallies against the transfer of land surrounding Kempir-Abad.

And she published the post not long after the arrest of lawmaker Adakhan Madumarov, the head of the Butun Kyrgyzstan opposition party, on treason charges in September.

Although Madumarov's case is linked to his activities as a state official more than a decade ago, pressure on the politician only began in earnest after he joined the ill-fated Committee to Protect Kempir-Abad last year.

He is also arguably the country's most popular opposition politician remaining, after others -- having been detained on various pretexts -- withdrew from politics in the months after Japarov and Tashiev came to power following unrest in 2020.

Sherkulova, for her part, is a registered member and coordinator of the Butun Kyrgyzstan party in Jalal-Abad Province.

Her lawyer, Toktosun Zhorobekov, told RFE/RL that his client is accused of spreading rumors about a piece of land being handed over to Tajikistan in border demarcation talks with that country -- rumors that Tashiev's State Committee for National Security (UKMK) saw fit to refute in a statement published earlier this month.

"I've read the charge sheet. There is nothing in it," Zhorobekov said. "She was simply accused [by someone] and they ordered her arrest."

Leila Nazgul Seiitbek of the Freedom For Eurasia nonprofit told RFE/RL that her group is currently monitoring around 70 cases of what the group deems political pressure on individuals in Kyrgyzstan, at least 20 of which involve women.

Moreover, "victims are likely to increase" after Kyrgyzstan's parliament passed a law on October 25 dramatically tightening restrictions on foreign-funded NGOs, Seiitbek said.

"And it is likely that among those victims there will again be many women, because in the NGO sector the overwhelming majority of leaders are women," Seiitbek predicted.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyzstan-women-political- prisoners-stamping-out-opposition/32653887.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Kyrgyzstan's Latest Repressive Trend: Women Political Prisoners

By RFE/RL October 25, 2023

European Union leaders will meet in Brussels on October 26-27 for a summit where they are expected to reiterate their condemnation of Russia's war against Ukraine and discuss the bloc's support for Kyiv amid signs of donor fatigue in some members, with the war in its 21st month.

The leaders of the 27 EU member states are expected to reaffirm their support for "Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity" and "its inherent right of self-defense," according to the draft conclusions of the summit, seen by RFE/RL.

The document, which is not final and must still be approved by EU leaders, will also reaffirm the bloc's intention to continue to provide "strong financial, economic, humanitarian, military, and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes."

The draft conclusions will also call for "further strengthening sanctions" against Russia over its aggression and will call on the European Commission to "accelerate work" on propositions on how revenues stemming directly from Russia's immobilized assets could be directed to support Ukraine and its recovery and reconstruction.

Another item on the EU leaders' agenda is the revision of the long-term EU budget. The European Commission is seeking unanimous support from member states to increase the budget before the end of the year, in particular to ensure the continued flow of financial aid to Ukraine.

Kyiv has said that it needs international support to cover its wartime budget deficit, with Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal saying that Kyiv will need some 42 billion euros ($44.62 billion) next year.

But the budget top-up needs backing from all member states, who will be required to make additional contributions from their national budgets. Hungary, where Viktor Orban's government continues to cultivate closer ties with Russia, unlike the other EU states, is seen as potential opponent to increased aid for Ukraine.

Slovakia, which just elected a populist leader -- former Prime Minister Robert Fico -- is another question mark, given he campaigned to win an election in September with pledges to halt military aid to Ukraine while also criticizing sanctions on Russia.

Ukraine is now applying for EU membership, but a decision by EU leaders on whether to launch formal negotiations is not expected until the next EU summit in December, after the European Commission presents its report on the progress made by Ukraine in early November, Reuters reports.

Among the other items on the EU leaders' agenda is the situation in the Middle East and other foreign policy issues, Pascual Ignacio Navarro Rios, state secretary for the EU, said on behalf of Spain, which currently holds the EU's rotating presidency.

These include the recent escalation of tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, both of which hope to join the EU, as well as relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan after Baku staged a lightning offensive in September to regain control of Nagorno-Karabakh, the region where ethnic Armenians had enjoyed de facto independence since breaking away in the 1990s.

The EU leaders are expected to condemn Hamas for its "brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks" in Israel, in which 1,400 people were killed, and emphasize Israel's right to defend itself, according to the draft conclusions of the meeting. They will also express concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and call for a "humanitarian pause" in Israel's campaign to bring in relief.

The situation in the Middle East was discussed by the foreign ministers of the bloc's member states during a meeting earlier this week, but they failed to reach an agreement on a joint position.

With reporting by Rikard Jozwiak

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/eu-summit-ukraine-russia-donor- fatigue-war-budget/32653593.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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"We stand ready to be one of the guarantors of Palestine"

Presidency Of The Republic Of Turkey

25.10.2023

Addressing AK Party's parliamentary group meeting, President Erdogan said: "We, together with our humanitarian, political and military presence, stand ready to be one of the guarantors of the Palestinian side. We call on all the countries with goodwill and determination to assess our offer, take concrete steps and open the doors to peace as soon as possible."

President and Justice and Development (AK) Party Chairman Recep Tayyip Erdogan made a speech at the party's parliamentary group meeting.

"WE WILL CONTINUE TO DESTROY THE TERROR CORRIDOR SOUGHT TO BE ESTABLISHED ALONG OUR BORDERS"

Drawing attention to Turkiye's fight against terror, President Erdogan stressed that neither the support of the malign circles at home nor the protection of the imperialist powers they rely on will prevent the separatist terrorist organization from perishing, and said: "With the operations we carry out by saying 'We might come one night all of a sudden,' we will foil the projects sought to be realized through terrorist organizations and crush their heads. We hope that those, who protect terrorist organization's members and supporters that operate on their lands just because it annoys Turkiye and just because they bear enmity towards our faith, will see the reality one day. We are afraid that it will be too late for everything when the snake they have been feeding in their bosom will bite themselves. Although they do not abide by what statecraft and international law require, we will never give up on fulfilling what our dignity requires us to do. We will continue to destroy the terror corridor sought to be established along our borders, and to stand up against the dirty campaigns conducted against our country and faith."

"ISRAEL HAS BEEN CONDUCTING ONE OF THE BLOODIEST ATTACKS OF HISTORY"

Delivering remarks on the Palestine issue, President Erdogan stressed that they have always addressed the issue from the perspective of human, and went on to say: "As has been the case in other regions, we have defended human, human life and the ancient values, which make humans people. We have made every effort in order for this crisis to not further escalate, and will continue to do so. In order to meet the needs of the Gazan people to some extent, we have sent eight planeloads of medical and humanitarian aid supplies to Al-Arish Airport in Egypt. Also, we have dispatched our 25 healthcare personnel to Egypt for the treatment of the injured. In addition, we have clearly stated that we never approve of any acts against civilians, including Israeli civilians, no matter who carries these acts out. As was the case in the past, we maintain this principled stance of ours today as well. We do not have any problem with the State of Israel, but we never have and never will approve of Israel's oppression and their course of action that resembles that of an organization rather than a state. Israel has since October 7 been conducting one of the bloodiest, the most hideous and the most violent attacks of history against the innocent people in Gaza.

"Almost half of those who have died in Israel's attacks on Gaza have been children, and the other half mothers and family elders of those children. Merely this fact is enough to show that the intention is not to protect themselves but a brutality aimed at committing a deliberate crime against humanity. There is no other country or army in the world that bombs the cities with warplanes night and day to kill children, fires hospitals, places of worship, schools, markets, buildings, streets, and that keeps committing this crime against humanity with its tanks, artilleries and weapons. I call on Israel and the world: They are holding meetings. They met once again during the last meeting. The entire West sees Hamas as a terrorist organization. I call on Israel: You can be an organization, because the West owes a lot to you, but Turkiye owes you nothing. Hamas is not a terrorist organization; it is a group of liberation and mujahedeen fighting to defend its lands and citizens."

"WE HAD A PROJECT TO GO TO ISRAEL, BUT WE CANCELED IT"

Underscoring that no one can sleep in peace or look to their future in confidence in a world where children embrace their parents' dead bodies and parents embrace their children's dead bodies, President Erdogan noted that he, once in his life, shook the hand of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel at the Turkish House in New York, and added: "We had goodwill, but it has been exploited. We had a project to go to Israel, but we canceled it, we will not be going. If they had continued with goodwill, we could have had different relations, but unfortunately we will not have, because they have exploited our goodwill."

Stressing that Israel will not be achieving anything with this mindset, President Erdogan said: "You can take either the U.S., the others or the West next to you, but you cannot achieve anything. America will lose as well, because they do not ensure that justice prevails in the world, they do not want it. The only thing is to build a just world. It applies not just to Israel, but also to every country, every society and every individual that supports Israel's massacres and encourages them instead of preventing them."

It is time to clearly address the attitude of those who have turned their back on the reality of the despicable killing of hundreds of children, women and innocent people every day. Turning their back on truth, or inventing excuses for the ongoing inhumane attacks by turning a blind eye to the shattered bodies of children is a legacy the West has inherited from their bloody history. There are many bloody traces, painful memories and irreparable massacres on the minds of an important part of the world, from America to Africa."

"TURKIYE IS THE ONLY GEOGRAPHY WHERE ANTI-SEMITISM HAS NOT BEEN EMERGED"

"We as the Turkish nation are the only people in the world that has never practiced racism," President Erdogan noted, and went on to say: "It is the Jewish community that knows this fact the best. We are the only state and Turkiye is the only geography where, although Jews have lived throughout centuries on its lands, anti-Semitism has not been emerged. None of those, who stand in line to support Israel for the children and innocent people it has killed, can proudly make such a statement. This includes their rabbis.

"Are not they the ones who, all through false excuses and pawn organizations they have established, have caused the death of 2 million people in Iraq, 1 million people in Afghanistan and 1 million in Syria over the past 25 years alone? Are not they the ones who have attempted to silence through threats, and even blackmails the university students, academics, journalists, artists, athletes and business people who have made in their countries statements in favor of the oppressed Palestinian people? We are all together witnessing the fascist faces of those who do not leave democracy, human rights, pluralism, freedom of thought to anyone when it comes to rhetoric. Let me note that our country's doors are wide open to the university students and all the other segments that are having a hard time in their countries just because of their dignified attitude. The tears the western powers, who are turning a blind eye on the oppression in Gaza, are shedding for Israel is nothing but the embodiment of fraudulence. The indifference of those, who, just until yesterday, set the world on fire for the losses in the war in Ukraine, to the blatant massacre in Gaza is the manifestation of this very hypocrisy."

"A CEASEFIRE SHOULD BE DECLARED IMMEDIATELY"

President Erdogan stated that the perpetrators behind the massacre and destruction in Gaza are those who give unlimited support to Israel.

Addressing Israel and those who support and encourage Israel, President Erdogan said: "As long as innocents continue to die in Gaza, no ship, no plane, sent to our region, no political show will bring peace."

President Erdogan stressed that the Israeli government should seek security not 10 thousand kilometers away, but in its neighbors in the region, especially Turkiye.

"When the powers on whom Israel relies today pack up and leave tomorrow to put out the fires in their own homes, the first place the Israeli people will look for safety and compassion will be Turkiye, just as it was 500 years ago. What we ask from the Israeli government and society is that they refrain from behaviors that will damage this centuries-old sense of compassion of our nation and heed our call for peace. We are aware that the forces that, starting a century ago, surrounded us with the cruelty that drowned these lands, which house the oldest settlements in the world, in blood and fire, do not want a solution today as was the case yesterday. Those who cause the problem, of course, do not want a solution. The deeper the crisis goes, the more complicated it becomes, the better it is for their interests. This is the reason behind the provocative statements and actions since the crisis began on October 7," President Erdogan said.

Pointing out that they reject the exploitative order for which all the peoples of the region, including Muslims, Christians and Jews, pay the price, President Erdogan said that the Al-Aqsa Mosque is a common place of worship for Muslims, Christians and Jews, that the authorities do not take care of the common place of worship, that they have called these authorities and warned them and that they continue to call on them to "take care of it together".

Stating that the vicious circle in which every war is followed by new wars and every conflict is followed by more bloody conflicts must be broken, President Erdogan said: "We need to act with common sense and prudence and tear apart the straitjacket that is forced on us. Otherwise, we will continue to pay the price with our lives, blood, resources and future. The steps that need to be taken for this are clear. First of all, all parties should take their hands off the trigger and a ceasefire should be declared immediately."

"A HUMANITARIAN CORRIDOR MUST BE ESTABLISHED IMMEDIATELY TO MEET THE URGENT NEEDS IN GAZA"

Noting that direct or indirect negotiations should be initiated on the issue of the cessation of Israel's attacks on Gaza and other regions as well as the firing of missiles into Israeli territory and the release of the hostages and that this issue should be concluded quickly, President Erdogan said: "You put children in cages. What kind of mind is this? Can such a thing happen? Children, [they are just] children. A humanitarian corridor must be established immediately to meet the urgent needs in Gaza, and the entry of necessities and the exit of the injured must be allowed without restrictions. We have made our hospitals available for the treatment of all the injured. The Rafah border crossing must be kept open at all times for humanitarian aid. Everyone knows very well that 20 trucks of aid material sent to a region where the need is expressed in hundreds of trucks is nothing more than a drop in the sea."

Stating that Israel should not prevent the delivery of adequate humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, the removal of the ruins, the restoration of the city's infrastructure from water to energy, the rapid construction of temporary shelters and field hospitals, President Erdogan said that Turkiye has sent a field hospital and generators to the region and will continue to send the necessary ones.

"WE CALL ON ALL THE COUNTRIES WITH GOODWILL AND DETERMINATION TO OPEN THE DOORS TO PEACE"

President Erdogan stated that Turkiye will never shy away from assuming a responsibility in order for this war to lay the groundwork of a lasting peace, and said: "We see the body of guarantorship currently as the most tangible, the most consistent and the most efficient method aimed at producing a realistic resolution to the matter, at least in short- and medium-term. We, together with our humanitarian, political and military presence, stand ready to be one of the guarantors of the Palestinian side. We call on all the countries with goodwill and determination to assess our offer, take concrete steps and open the doors to peace as soon as possible."

Underscoring that they, as a country that wholeheartedly believe that a just peace will have no losers, are offering that an "International Peace Conference on Palestine-Israel" be held in which all the actors with influence in the region will participate, President Erdogan noted: "However, this conference should be held in light of the lessons drawn from the outcomes, which have failed, of many similar meetings, from Madrid to Oslo, and Sharm El Sheikh to Annapolis, which have been held over the past 30 years."

"THE PALESTINIAN PEOPLE SHOULD ACT AS A WHOLE"

Pointing out that both parties need such steps, Turkiye's offer for guarantorship in particular, which will be taken in light of much stronger, more binding and more practical decisions, President Erdogan stressed: "Obviously, the ultimate resolution is to establish a sovereign and independent State of Palestine on the 1967 borders, with Al-Quds as its capital, which will be recognized by the entire world. To achieve this, first of all, the Palestinian people should ensure unity and solidarity among themselves and act as a whole. What will complement this will to be displayed by the Palestinian people is the necessary material and emotional support to be provided by the Arab world in order for this state to survive."

Noting that such a development, which will be backed by the Islamic states as well as by all the states that have not closed their minds and conscience to realities, will restore the stability and peace that Israel has been pursuing, President Erdogan added: "Otherwise, it is impossible to predict what will be the consequences of the radicalization that will further increase with every attack, every massacre and every destruction in the region."

"THE UNSC MUST RAPIDLY REFORM ITSELF"

Stating that the objection "The world is bigger than 5", which he has voiced at every opportunity, has been confirmed once again with the latest developments in Gaza, President Erdogan said: "From here, once again, I repeat our cry about the injustice, imbalance and ineffectiveness of the global governance and security system by saying 'The world is bigger than 5'. The United Nations, and especially the Security Council, must rapidly reform itself. We must establish a United Nations operation and Security Council structure in which the people of the world can feel themselves fairly included in all their diversity and balance, especially in terms of geographical and religious distribution."

Underlining that there is no sustainability in a structure that surrenders the security of the world to the interests of five countries, President Erdogan said that what has happened in Gaza is the latest example of this clear reality.

Noting that it is first and foremost inhumane to insist on maintaining a system that does not even tolerate talking about the brutal killing of thousands of innocent people, most of whom are children, President Erdogan said: "No one will take seriously or follow a structure in which the brutal murder of children is ignored. We are deeply saddened by this image of impotence that the United Nations has fallen into. I hope that our call will be heeded as soon as possible and the necessary processes will be carried out."

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UK delivers humanitarian aid to support Palestinian civilians

An RAF C-17 aircraft is en-route to Egypt to deliver vital UK Government humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians.

25 October 2023

An RAF C-17 aircraft is en-route to Egypt to deliver vital UK Government humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians.

The flight left RAF Brize Norton this morning and will deliver twenty-one tonnes of life-saving UK aid for civilians in Gaza.

Essential supplies including 76,800 wound care packs, 1,350 water filters and 2,560 solar lights were dispatched to address the unfolding humanitarian crisis.

The UK has also delivered a temporary, rapid-assembly warehouse and mechanical handling equipment including two forklift trucks, which can be set up close to the Rafah border crossing to respond quickly to needs on the ground.

The aid is part of the 30 million increase in humanitarian support for the Occupied Palestinian Territories announced by the Prime Minister - more than doubling the UK's existing commitment for this year from 27m to 57m.

Supplies will be distributed via the Egyptian Red Crescent, which has requested them to meet the most urgent humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza. Each water filter and light is intended to support a family of five.

In addition, ministers have been engaged in intensive diplomatic activity in response to this crisis.

Last week the Prime Minister visited Israel, Saudi Arabia and Egypt, where he pushed for greater humanitarian access to Gaza and led efforts to help prevent regional escalation.

The Foreign Secretary visited Egypt, Turkey and Qatar over the past week, where he pushed for agreement on humanitarian access to Gaza, the release of British hostages and foreign nationals, and securing safe passage for British nationals to leave Gaza.

And the Defence Secretary is visiting Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates this week to discuss measures to prevent a wider conflict, as well as humanitarian issues. He also met his counterpart in Washington last week to coordinate the UK and US's response to the crisis.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said:

Today's airlift is a clear demonstration of the UK's commitment to helping those most in need - rapidly deploying the RAF to get life-saving aid into the region. Together with our regional partners it's critical that we prioritise protecting all civilians from harm - that's why I'm in the Middle East this week to work with defence leaders on deterring a wider conflict that would have devastating consequences for families across the region.

To support the FCDO team in country with distributing aid shipments, the UK's military advisory team attached to the embassy in Egypt has been bolstered, following on from the Prime Minister's announcement last week that other teams in the region had already been increased.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:

The urgent humanitarian need in Gaza is clear. This delivery of vital UK aid into Egypt will save lives but more is needed. Humanitarian aid must continue to be allowed into Gaza to reach the people who need it most. The UK is working with Israel, Egypt and other partners in the region to enable life-saving aid to reach civilians including food, water, medical supplies and fuel as a priority.

The Department for Health and Social Care has donated 76,800 wound care packs from its stockpiles. These include sterilised clinical equipment and protective clothing.

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UK delivers humanitarian aid to support Palestinian civilians

Explanation of vote by Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East.

25 October 2023

President, we regret that the draft resolution proposed by the United States was not adopted. The text would have had a real impact on the ground by calling for hostages to be released, for aid to get in, including through humanitarian pauses. Through this resolution the Security Council would have rightly, and for the first time, unequivocally condemned Hamas' terrorist attacks.

The United Kingdom could not support the resolution proposed by Russia, which once again failed to recognise Israel's right to self-defence.

As so many of us have said, there is a grave crisis unfolding in the Middle East. The Russian text was put to a vote without a single minute of consultation with the Council members. It was not a serious attempt to have this Council speak with one voice.

We are committed to continuing to work across the Council towards a balanced text that condemns Hamas, reaffirms Israel's right to defend itself, is clear on the need for everything to be done to protect civilians in line with international humanitarian law and gets more aid flowing into Gaza.

I thank you.

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South China Sea conference 2023: Indo-Pacific Minister's speech

Anne-Marie Trevelyan's keynote speech to South China Sea conference in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Transcript of the speech as it was delivered.

25 October 2023

Excellencies. Ladies and Gentlemen. Friends.

It's good to be here with you in person this morning to show my support for an area of geopolitical importance.

I am especially glad to be here this year during the 50th anniversary year of Diplomatic Relations between the United Kingdom and Vietnam. We are a close partner with Vietnam on maritime security and remain committed to strengthening our collaboration.

I'm here because what happens in the South China Sea matters globally.

As you're aware, almost 60% of global maritime trade passes through the South China Sea. This makes it vital that all parties enjoy the same freedoms to navigate and exercise in the South China Sea.

Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine offers an alarming example of the pain inflicted when supply chains are disrupted by conflict. Rising energy and food prices are harming the world's most vulnerable people.

Like you, the UK is committed to avoiding any such outcome in this region. We seek to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific. We want to deepen relationships with our partners, support sustainable development and tackle the shared challenges we all face.

What does this mean for the South China Sea? It means supporting stability and working together on climate change.

It also means establishing and maintaining open lines of communication.

That is the most effective way of managing tensions. Failing to do so risks escalation. You in this region know, more than anyone, the potentially catastrophic consequences that this could have. As the UK deepens its long-term partnership with ASEAN and others in the Indo-Pacific, we are committed to helping you to de-escalate tensions and maintain stability.

That is why our commitment to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea is unwavering. Last year, on its 40th anniversary, I reiterated the important role UNCLOS plays in setting the legal framework for activities in our seas and oceans.

The UK takes no sides in the sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea, but we oppose any activity that undermines or threatens UNCLOS' authority - including attempts to legitimise incompatible maritime claims.

The recent instances of unsafe conduct against Vietnamese and Filipino vessels has demonstrated the serious risks posed to regional peace and stability. When we see actions that violate UNCLOS we will call them out - as we did following events around the Second Thomas Shoal this week. And we will support our partners to shine a light on this so-called 'grey zone' activity that creates tensions and risks escalation.

Our ambassador in Manila joined partners this July in reiterating that the 2016 Arbitral Award is a significant milestone in resolving disputes peacefully and is legally binding on China and the Philippines.

We call on both parties to abide by the findings of those proceedings.

Our partnership with ASEAN supports our shared commitment for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

We respect and admire the central role ASEAN has played in maintaining regional stability and prosperity.

We look forward to working with you on advancing the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, with maritime cooperation being a key pillar. We also congratulate ASEAN on issuing its first Maritime Outlook and holding its first maritime Solidarity Exercise.

I am also grateful to my Indonesian counterparts for their work as ASEAN chair this year in progressing negotiations for a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.

The UK strongly believes in the need for an agreement that is consistent with UNCLOS and reflects the interests and guarantees the rights and freedoms of all parties - including third countries.

The UK's Carrier Strike Group will soon return to the region to demonstrate these rights and freedoms in practice.

Let me turn now to what the UK can offer.

Like ASEAN, we hope that a sea of conflict can become a sea of cooperation. There is no more urgent need for cooperation than on environmental degradation.

Pressures on fisheries, the destruction of the marine environment and rising sea levels pose an existential threat to the millions of people who rely on the South China Sea for their livelihoods.

This is why we have launched new projects - including through our ASEAN dialogue partnership - to conserve the sea for our future generations.

Our Just Energy Transition Partnerships, signed with Vietnam and Indonesia, encourage the early retirement of high-emitting coal fired power plants, investment in renewable energy and overcome barriers to support an inclusive and just transition.

Our Blue Planet Fund, worth half a billion pounds, includes over a hundred and fifty million pounds for the COAST programme.

This is designed to help vulnerable coastal communities across the region improve their climate resilience and become more sustainable.

Other Blue Planet Fund programmes focus on tackling plastic pollution - a key ASEAN objective; testing innovative mechanisms to mobilise blue finance; protecting coral reefs; and commissioning studies into the impact of climate security risks.

Furthermore, to sustain the South China Sea's vital role as a provider for fish and livelihoods, this year the UK announced funding of two and a half million pounds on Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing - another key priority of the ASEAN Maritime Outlook.

This support will help the coastal communities, fragile ocean ecosystems, and global food supply chains that face devastation. We have already started work with partners in the Philippines and we want to expand the scope of similar practical projects with countries in this region, including here in Vietnam.

The UK also continues to support our regional partners' resilience and security through our ASEAN-UK Maritime Cooperation Programme. We are helping to build capacity on maritime law and providing training and sharing expertise in Exclusive Economic Zone management, maritime domain awareness, and hydrographic research.

Through our bids to join the ASEAN Regional Forum, and the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting Plus, we propose to make even stronger commitments to regional security and stability.

In conclusion, the UK's commitment in this region is steadfast.

The peace and prosperity of the South China Sea must remain a priority for all.

I wish you all a productive and successful conference and look forward to the rest of my time here in Vietnam to learn even more personally.

Thank you.

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Gaza crisis: Deadlock deepens as Security Council rejects competing resolutions by US and Russia

25 October 2023 - China and Russia on Wednesday vetoed a draft resolution sponsored by the United States, while a second Russian-backed resolution failed to secure sufficient votes in favour, deepening the Security Council's deadlock over any unified response to address the crisis in Gaza and Israel.

The US-led draft resolution failed to pass owing to a negative vote by permanent Security Council members China and Russia.

Ten members of the Council voted for the draft resolution and three against (China, Russia and UAE), with two abstentions (Brazil and Mozambique).

A 'no' vote from any one of the five permanent members of the Council stops action on any measure put before it. The body's permanent members are China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Russian-backed resolution

A second draft resolution, led by Russia, was not adopted as it failed to secure sufficient number of votes in favour.

Four Council members voted in favour (China, Gabon, Russia and UAE), two against (UK and US), and nine abstained (Albania, Brazil, Ecuador, France, Ghana, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, Switzerland).

For a resolution to be adopted, it must be supported by at least nine members of the Council.

The proposed texts

The similarly worded resolutions would have called for a "humanitarian ceasefire" or "humanitarian pause" to enable safe delivery of aid for desperate civilians.

Both drafts condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians of 7 October and urged action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where fuel is due to run out for hospitals and other crucial services, in a matter of hours, according to UN agencies on the ground.

Key differences in the text included a specific mention in the US-backed proposal of States' inherent right to self defence, and a call in the Russian-led one for the immediate cancellation by Israeli forces of the evacuation order for civilians to head into southern Gaza.

Draft resolutions do not represent the official position of the 15-member Security Council until adopted.

Some Council members spoke to state their positions ahead of the votes.

United States

US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield said the fruits of diplomacy have played out over the past few days, with humanitarian aid beginning to reach Gaza. The US will continue to work towards that effort, which is reflected in the draft resolution, she said.

Welcoming the release of four hostages by Hamas, she thanked Qatar and Egypt for their mediation. However, more than 200 hostages remain. "Parents lie awake at night wondering if they will ever see their children again," she said, recalling her meeting on Tuesday with a family of one of the hostages.

"This moment is a test for all of us, for the international community and the Council," she said. In drafting the resolution, "we listened, we engaged", including with humanitarian agencies, and the draft contains language on deconfliction mechanisms to protect civilians and UN personnel.

However, Russia put forward a text with "zero consultations", she said.

"The bottom line is this: Russia has offered up yet another resolution in bad faith," she said, calling for support for the US draft, which condemns the heinous attacks by Hamas, confirms the right of Member States to self-defence and calls on parties to respect international humanitarian law.

It also calls for humanitarian pauses and indicates that Member States must take concrete steps to prevent the spread of the conflict.

"We must continue to work towards a future where two democratic states - Israel and Palestine - live side by side in peace," she said, urging all Council members to vote in favour of the US draft.

Russia

Vassily Nebenzya, Russia's Ambassador to the UN, said it was "extremely lamentable" that for two weeks since the crisis erupted, the Security Council has not been able to send a collective signal to deescalate the situation.

"The bloodshed is ongoing, the number of civilian causalities in now in the thousands [and] millions are displaced," he said, urging a "hard think about the shocking figures."

He recalled the earlier Russian proposal, a depoliticized resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, which unfortunately was not supported by most members of the Council.

"National and narrow self-centred ideological and political interests prevailed over the aim of stopping a humanitarian disaster," he said, noting also the US veto of the Brazilian-led resolution last week.

He went on to note that he saw no point in supporting the US-led draft that served the geopolitical interests of one of the Security Council members.

Concluding his statement, Mr. Nebenzya said he urged Council members to support the Russia-led text, stating: "This is the last attempt by the Council to fulfill the noble functions entrusted to it. We urge you not to miss it."

Voting aftermath

US Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield expressed deep disappointment in the vetoing of the US resolution by China and Russia.

The US stands ready to work with all Member States to support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General, President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, she said.

Expressing dismay after the Russian resolution fell, Ambassador Nebenzia regretted that once again, the Council had failed to respond to the unprecedented conflict in the Middle East.

US Representative Robert Wood said his delegation could not support the Russian draft, which did not reflect reality on the ground.

"We must put the region and the world above all else," he said.

China

China's Ambassador Zhang Jun said they had used their veto against the US resolution "based on facts, based on law, based on conscience, based on justice".

He said in discussions the US text had emerged "seriously out of balance", introduced in haste and lacking the strongest calls necessary for a full ceasefire.

He said China was fully in favour of taking action but accused the US text of being "evasive" on the key issue of ending the fighting.

Ceasefire is not only a diplomatic term, he added, it is a matter of life and death for many civilians.

"We would be irresponsible if we are ambiguous on the issue of war and peace", said the Ambassador, stressing that China is not indifferent to the suffering of Gazans.

He said because the US text failed to mention the root causes of the current crisis in Gaza, without reference to Israel's blockade or the evacuation order for civilians to move south, his country would be voting in favour of the Russian text.

He said the US effort if adopted, would completely end the possibility of a long term two-State solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

United Kingdom

UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward said through the US proposal, the Council could have condemned Hamas' terrorist attacks. At the same time, Russia's draft failed to recognize Israel's right to self-defence.

"We are committed to work across the Council towards a balanced text," she said, which should include a condemnation of Hamas, reaffirm Israel's self-defence rights, protect civilians, and get more aid flowing into Gaza.

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates' Ambassador Lana Zaki Nusseibeh said "the stakes are too high" and the Council "must step up".

"We know what the most pressing humanitarian needs are," she said, adding that these include a humanitarian ceasefire, release of all hostages, humanitarian access, fuel, water, and adherence to international humanitarian law.

Israel

Israel's Ambassador Gilad Erdin said his country continues to be attacked, from north and south, and asked Council members how they would feel if faced with this reality.

"You would feel there is a blatant double standard," he said, "and that the Council isn't taking even the most basic steps anyone with a slight moral compass should take. This is precisely how the State of Israel feels right now."

Israel has a right to self-defence, he said, adding that Hamas is solely responsible for Palestinian situation in Gaza and is committing crimes against humanity.

"In the wake of the Holocaust, we collectively swore 'never again'", he said. "This is one of the main reasons the UN was established. 'Never again', dear colleagues, is now. Do not forget this."

Previous action

Last Monday, a previous Russian-led draft resolution calling for an "immediate humanitarian ceasefire" was voted down and the following Wednesday, the United States vetoed a Brazilian-led text that urged "humanitarian pauses" to deliver aid to millions in the Gaza Strip.

The UN Security Council held an open debate on the crisis on Tuesday, prompting more than 80 countries to make statements in the chamber on the worsening crisis between Israel and Palestine which threatens to destabilize the entire region and beyond.

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Israel-Palestine: Blockade puts Gaza aid on the line, WHO spotlights soaring mental health needs in Israel

25 October 2023 - Humanitarian operations in Gaza risked grinding to a halt on Wednesday due to the ongoing fuel blockade, while Israel continued to deal with a protracted hostage crisis amid the horrific aftermath of Hamas' 7 October attacks.

UPDATED: An alert from Gaza's main hospital in the south of the enclave that lifesaving operations would stop on Wednesday evening because of fuel shortages followed an appeal from UN chief Antonio Guterres for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

A truce was needed, he told the Security Council on Tuesday, "to ease epic suffering, make the delivery of aid easier and safer and facilitate the release of hostages".

He said although nothing could justify the appalling attacks by Hamas of 7 October, it was important to recognize they "did not happen in a vacuum" and did not justify the collective punishment of Palestinians.

On Wednesday, the UN Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) said that in the past 24 hours three more staff members had been killed as the Israeli bombardment continues across Gaza, bringing the total to 38 since the full military siege began.

One school in Rafah in the far south which was sheltering some 4,600 IDPs sustained severe damage due to a close proximity strike, UNRWA reported.

The Hamas-run Ministry of Health is reporting close to 5,800 deaths inside Gaza since 7 October, including 2,360 children. More than 16,000 have been injured.

In the West Bank, 95 people have been killed and 1,900 injured said UNRWA.

Israel in deep trauma

The trauma of survivors and the "collective psychological burden" brought on by the hostage crisis in which over 220 Israelis and foreign nationals were still being held captive in Gaza has sent mental health needs soaring, UN health agency WHO's Special Representative in Israel Dr. Michel Thieren said.

When visiting a hospital in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon which is treating many of the 4,600 people wounded in the attacks, Dr. Thieren said that "almost every one of those survivors had seen someone else die before they themselves were injured".

'Ghost towns' in the south

The WHO official underscored that the mental health of doctors and nurses he met in Israel had been strongly affected by survivors' accounts and the wounds they were treating.

He also visited military bases where the mutilated bodies of many of the 1,400 victims of the Hamas attacks are stored in refrigerated containers and spoke about the impact on the doctors and forensic experts struggling to identify them.

"I have visited ghost towns in the south whose populations have been evacuated. There is still the terrible stench of death. [] The shadow of national shock and grief has plunged this country into night. When mental health perishes, so does physical health," Dr Thieren said.

Fuel critically low

Meanwhile in Gaza, the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, which is the largest humanitarian provider in the enclave, warned that unless fuel is allowed in, it will be forced to halt all operations as of Wednesday night.

Gaza has been under a full electricity blackout since 11 October and fuel shortages have compromised essential services from ambulances to bakeries and water facilities.

WHO also highlighted the critical need to get fuel into Gaza because without it, hospitals will not have any electricity or clean water.

"If there is no fuel, then babies in incubators who need that life support will simply die, and many more people will suffer," said Spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic, speaking from Cairo.

According to media reports, a fourth humanitarian aid convoy arrived in the enclave through the Rafah border crossing late on Tuesday, consisting of eight trucks from the Egyptian Red Crescent.

Tuesday also saw the highest fatality toll reported in a single day in Gaza during this round of hostilities, the UN humanitarian affairs coordination office (OCHA) said.

Some 704 Palestinians including 305 children were killed, bringing the total death toll in the territory to 5,791 according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.

Plight of women and girls

Joining its voice to the UN chief's calls for a humanitarian ceasefire, UN Women has highlighted the plight of women and girls in the Gaza Strip amid the escalation.

Speaking to UN News, UN Women Deputy Executive Director Sarah Hendriks stressed the urgent need for women and girls in Gaza to access safe shelter, protection and maternal healthcare. She said that according to UNFPA, the UN Population Fund, some 50,000 women in Gaza are currently pregnant and over 5,500 are expected to give birth just in the next month.

Access to healthcare is tightening by the hour in Gaza. WHO said on Tuesday that a third of hospitals and nearly two thirds of primary health care clinics in the territory have shut down.

Ms. Hendriks also said that "the violence has produced close to 900 new female headed households" and highlighted the struggle of widows to provide for their families. She warned about the ever-present threat of gender-based violence compounded by mass displacement and conditions in overcrowded shelters.

"We will continue to remain on the ground listening to the voices of women and girls, hearing their perspectives and translating those to the international community so that their needs can be prioritized even as the solutions to the overall conflict are being addressed," Ms. Hendriks said.

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UN chief hits back at 'false' claim he justified Hamas terror attacks

25 October 2023 - The UN Secretary-General on Wednesday firmly rebuked what he described as the "false" claim by top Israeli diplomats that he had sought to justify the terror attacks of 7 October by Hamas in a speech he delivered to the Security Council.

Addressing Tuesday's debate in the Council on the worsening crisis in Israel and Palestine, the UN chief said that although nothing could justify the "appalling" attacks by Hamas of 7 October which triggered the siege and bombardment of Gaza, it was important to recognize they "did not happen in a vacuum" and did not justify the collective punishment of Palestinians.

Following Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' briefing on Tuesday, Israel's ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan tweeted that, in effect, Mr. Guterres's speech had sought to justify Hamas's brutal assault which left some 1,400 dead, mainly civilians.

Resignation demand

He demanded that the UN chief resign, and later said that Israel would now withhold visas from UN officials.

Israel's foreign minister Eli Cohen also accused Mr. Guterres of justifying terrorism and cancelled a planned bilateral meeting with the UN chief on Tuesday.

Later on Tuesday the UN chief met some of the families of those taken hostage by Hamas fighters, and reaffirmed his call for the immediate and unconditional release of all those being held in violation of international law inside Gaza.

Shocked at misrepresentation

In a statement to correspondents at the stakeout outside the Security Council on Wednesday morning, Mr. Guterres said he was "shocked by the misrepresentation by some of my statement."

Acknowledging that he had indeed spoken of Palestinian grievances, he stressed he had also said in the Council that "the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas."

Without referring to Israeli diplomats specifically, the UN chief said it was "necessary to set the record straight - especially out of respect to the victims and to their families."

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Do Not Sell My Personal Information
Secretary-General's remarks to the Security Council - on Women, Peace and Security

United Nations Secretary-General

25 October 2023

[Trilingual, as delivered; scroll down for all-English and all-French]

Senhor presidente,

Muito obrigado por me convidar para informar o Conselho sobre este tema tao importante, e por nos relembrar a contribuicao fundamental que Bertha Lutz deu a Carta das Nacoes Unidas e aos direitos das mulheres.

Nombre d'entre vous ont visite l'exposition presentee a l'exterieur du batiment de l'ONU.

Vous avez vu les images de ces femmes qui incarnent le programme dont nous discutons aujourd'hui.

Des femmes qui luttent contre l'injustice, batissent la paix et prennent la place qui leur revient a la table des negociations.

C'est la un apercu de l'immense contribution des femmes a la paix et a la securite dans le monde. C'est aussi un temoignage du pouvoir de leadership des femmes.

Le monde doit en prendre note. Et il doit s'en inspirer.

Car aujourd'hui, nous sommes au bord du precipice.

Les conflits font rage. Les tensions montent. Les coups d'Etat eclatent.

L'autoritarisme est en marche. La menace nucleaire prend de l'ampleur. Le chaos climatique exacerbe les problemes de securite. Et la mefiance empoisonne les affaires mondiales et affaiblit notre capacite a reagir.

Les chiffres parlent d'eux-memes quant a l'etat desastreux du monde dans lequel nous vivons :

Les depenses militaires ont atteint un niveau record.

L'ampleur des deplacements dus a la violence, aux conflits et aux persecutions atteint un niveau record.

Et le nombre de femmes et de filles vivant dans des pays menaces par les combats a augmente de cinquante pour cent par rapport a 2017.

La ou les guerres font rage, les femmes souffrent.

La ou regnent l'autoritarisme et l'insecurite, les droits des femmes et des filles sont menaces.

Nous le voyons partout dans le monde :

Au Soudan et en Haiti, ou les femmes et les jeunes filles sont brutalisees et terrorisees par la violence sexuelle.

En Afghanistan, ou le deni des droits fondamentaux des femmes aneantit des vies et prive les populations d'une aide vitale.

Et en Ukraine, ou les femmes et les jeunes filles qui fuient l'invasion russe risquent d'etre la proie de trafiquants et d'agresseurs.

Au Moyen-Orient, ou les femmes et les filles sont touchees de maniere disproportionnee par la violence, les effusions de sang et les deplacements forces.

Des femmes et des jeunes filles font partie des nombreuses victimes des atrocites brutales commises par le Hamas.

Et plus de la moitie des victimes des bombardements incessants sur Gaza sont des femmes et des enfants. Des dizaines de milliers de femmes enceintes essaient desesperement d'acceder a des soins de sante essentiels.

Mr. President,

This grim backdrop gives renewed urgency to efforts to ensure women's full and meaningful participation in peace and security.

Twenty-three years after this Council adopted resolution 1325, women's participation should be a default, not an afterthought.

But that is not the case.

Women are leading efforts on peace, justice and rights around the world.

But still, far too many women's organizations struggle to fund their essential work, as military spending soars;

Far too many perpetrators of sexual violence walk free;

And far too many peace processes exclude women.

Of eighteen peace agreements reached last year, only one was signed or witnessed by a representative of a women's group or organization.

Despite our best efforts, women represented just sixteen percent of negotiators or delegates in the peace processes led, or co-led, by the United Nations.

We live in a male-dominated world with a male-dominated culture.

Centuries of patriarchy are a massive obstacle to gender equality and, in turn, to a culture of peace.

Around the world, women's rights are under attack. So are the people that defend them.

At least seven women who briefed this Council last year report facing reprisals for having done so.

Violence against women - both on and offline - is endemic; a massive barrier and disincentive to participation in civil and political life.

At the current rate of progress, it will be almost another half century before women are fairly represented in national parliaments.

Addressing this is not a favour to women. It is a matter of rights, justice and pragmatism.

Standing with women is good for the world.

We know processes involving women lead to more enduring peace.

We know gender-equal parliaments are more likely to increase spending on health, education and social protection, and reduce corruption.

Mr. President,

There are pockets of hope. This year's report shows good practice and success stories on the women, peace and security agenda from around the world.

From gender parity in Colombia's peace negotiations;

To perpetrators of sexual violence in Iraq, Syria and the Central African Republic being brought to justice.

The United Nations is committed to working with countries to drive progress on women, peace and security.

Our operations are supporting women, highlighting their vital work, and amplifying their voices.

The Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund of the United Nations has supported more than a thousand local women's organizations since it was established in 2016.

And we've made progress towards gender balance within peacekeeping missions.

But overall, when it comes to women peace and security, the world must urgently bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality.

This annual debate regularly has the longest speakers' list of the year.

But concrete progress is slow, stagnant or even going backwards.

We need to implement the women peace and security agenda in full, now.

Because women have had enough of being shut out of the decisions that shape their lives;

Enough of their work going unrecognized;

Enough of threats and violence;

Enough of promises left unfulfilled.

Women demand concrete actions to make real strides forward.

First, that means steps to ensure women are in the room for peace talks.

I encourage governments supporting conflict mediation to set ambitious targets for women on negotiating teams.

Second, it means money on the table.

If you want to stand with women driving change, if you want to support women enduring conflict, if you want to remove barriers to participation, and if you want women's organisations to deliver, we need to pay for it.

Yet, the latest figures show aid funding for gender equality in conflict falling.

I urge countries providing Overseas Development Assistance, or ODA, to allocate fifteen percent to gender equality.

Fifteen percent of funds for mediation work must support women's participation.

I also call on countries providing ODA to allocate one percent - at a bare minimum - to direct assistance to women's organizations mobilizing for peace.

By the end of 2025, the Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund Invest-in-Women campaign aims to raise $300 million.

I urge you to throw yourselves behind this effort.

Third, we need concrete measure to secure women's full, equal and meaningful participation at all levels of decision-making on peace and security, and all levels of political and civil life.

That means pushing fair representation in national and local governments, cabinets and parliaments:

I was a prime minister and leader of a political party. I know quotas, targets and incentives work.

We need robust, comprehensive legislation to tackle violence against women - both on and offline - and to put an end to impunity for perpetrators.

And we need to make the most of the Summit of the Future next year to push for progress on women, peace and security.

The Summit is a chance to reform and revitalise multilateralism so that it meets the challenges of today.

In preparation, the policy brief on A New Agenda for Peace puts women's leadership and participation at the centre of decision-making.

I urge you to consider its proposals carefully.

Mr. President,

Amidst a world in chaos, the clock is ticking down to twenty-fifth anniversary of resolution 1325.

A quarter century is ample time to make progress.

We need to translate the energy, commitment and focus in this room into change on the ground and money on the table.

No more stalling, no more coasting, no more delays.

We need to back the change-makers whose images we proudly display outside this building, starting today.

The state of the world demands it.

And women and girls, rightly, expect nothing less.

Thank you.

**********************************************************

[All-English]

Mr. President,

Thank you for inviting me to brief the Council on this vital issue. And for reminding us of the key contribution Bertha Lutz made to the UN Charter and to women's rights.

Many of you here today will have visited the exhibition on display outside the United Nations building.

You will have seen the images of the women who embody the agenda we are discussing.

Women who are fighting injustice, building peace, and taking their rightful place at the table.

It is a snapshot of the immense contribution women are making to peace and security around the world. And a testament to the power of women's leadership.

The world must take note. And it must take inspiration.

Because today, we are on a knife's edge.

Conflicts are raging. Tensions are rising. Coups are erupting.

Authoritarianism is on the march. The nuclear threat has mushroomed. Climate chaos is inflaming security challenges. And mistrust is poisoning global politics - weakening our ability to respond.

The figures speak for themselves on the dire state of our world:

Military spending is at a record high.

Displacement due to violence, conflict and persecution is at a record high.

And fifty percent more women and girls are living in countries threatened by fighting than in 2017.

Where wars rage, women suffer.

Where authoritarianism and insecurity reign, women and girls' rights are threatened.

We see this around the world:

In Sudan and Haiti - women and girls brutalized and terrorized by sexual violence.

In Afghanistan - the denial of women's basic rights is wrecking lives and depriving people of life-saving assistance.

And women and girls fleeing Russia's invasion of Ukraine are at risk of being preyed on by traffickers and abusers.

In the Middle East, women and girls are disproportionately affected by the ongoing violence, bloodshed and displacement.

Women and girls are among the many victims of Hamas' brutal atrocities.

And women and children are more than half the victims of the relentless bombing of Gaza. Tens of thousands of pregnant women are desperately struggling to access essential healthcare.

Mr. President,

This grim backdrop gives renewed urgency to efforts to ensure women's full and meaningful participation in peace and security.

Twenty-three years after this Council adopted resolution 1325, women's participation should be a default, not an afterthought.

But that is not the case.

Women are leading efforts on peace, justice and rights around the world.



But still, far too many women's organizations struggle to fund their essential work, as military spending soars;

Far too many perpetrators of sexual violence walk free;

And far too many peace processes exclude women.

Of eighteen peace agreements reached last year, only one was signed or witnessed by a representative of a women's group or organization.

Despite our best efforts, women represented just sixteen percent of negotiators or delegates in the peace processes led, or co-led, by the United Nations.

We live in a male-dominated world with a male-dominated culture.

Centuries of patriarchy are a massive obstacle to gender equality and, in turn, to a culture of peace.

Around the world, women's rights are under attack. So are the people that defend them.

At least seven women who briefed this Council last year report facing reprisals for having done so.

Violence against women - both on and offline - is endemic; a massive barrier and disincentive to participation in civil and political life.

At the current rate of progress, it will be almost another half century before women are fairly represented in national parliaments.

Addressing this is not a favour to women. It is a matter of rights, justice and pragmatism.

Standing with women is good for the world.

We know processes involving women lead to more enduring peace.

We know gender-equal parliaments are more likely to increase spending on health, education and social protection, and reduce corruption.

Mr. President,

There are pockets of hope. This year's report shows good practice and success stories on the women, peace and security agenda from around the world.

From gender parity in Colombia's peace negotiations;

To perpetrators of sexual violence in Iraq, Syria and the Central African Republic being brought to justice.

The United Nations is committed to working with countries to drive progress on women, peace and security.

Our operations are supporting women, highlighting their vital work, and amplifying their voices.

The Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund of the United Nations has supported more than a thousand local women's organizations since it was established in 2016.

And we've made progress towards gender balance within peacekeeping missions.

But overall, when it comes to women peace and security, the world must urgently bridge the gap between rhetoric and reality.

This annual debate regularly has the longest speakers' list of the year.

But concrete progress is slow, stagnant or even going backwards.

We need to implement the women peace and security agenda in full, now.

Because women have had enough of being shut out of the decisions that shape their lives;

Enough of their work going unrecognized;

Enough of threats and violence;

Enough of promises left unfulfilled.

Women demand concrete actions to make real strides forward.

First, that means steps to ensure women are in the room for peace talks.

I encourage governments supporting conflict mediation to set ambitious targets for women on negotiating teams.

Second, it means money on the table.

If you want to stand with women driving change, if you want to support women enduring conflict, if you want to remove barriers to participation, and if you want women's organisations to deliver, we need to pay for it.

Yet, the latest figures show aid funding for gender equality in conflict falling.

I urge countries providing Overseas Development Assistance, or ODA, to allocate fifteen percent to gender equality.

Fifteen percent of funds for mediation work must support women's participation.

I also call on countries providing ODA to allocate one percent - at a bare minimum - to direct assistance to women's organizations mobilizing for peace.

By the end of 2025, the Women's Peace and Humanitarian Fund Invest-in-Women campaign aims to raise $300 million.

I urge you to throw yourselves behind this effort.

Third, we need concrete measure to secure women's full, equal and meaningful participation at all levels of decision-making on peace and security, and all levels of political and civil life.

That means pushing fair representation in national and local governments, cabinets and parliaments:

I was a prime minister and leader of a political party. I know quotas, targets and incentives work.

We need robust, comprehensive legislation to tackle violence against women - both on and offline - and to put an end to impunity for perpetrators.

And we need to make the most of the Summit of the Future next year to push for progress on women, peace and security.

The Summit is a chance to reform and revitalise multilateralism so that it meets the challenges of today.

In preparation, the policy brief on A New Agenda for Peace puts women's leadership and participation at the centre of decision-making.

I urge you to consider its proposals carefully.

Mr. President,

Amidst a world in chaos, the clock is ticking down to twenty-fifth anniversary of resolution 1325.

A quarter century is ample time to make progress.

We need to translate the energy, commitment and focus in this room into change on the ground and money on the table.

No more stalling, no more coasting, no more delays.

We need to back the change-makers whose images we proudly display outside this building, starting today.

The state of the world demands it.

And women and girls, rightly, expect nothing less.

Thank you.

**************************************************************

[All-French]

Monsieur le President,

Je vous remercie de m'avoir invite a presenter au Conseil un expose sur cette question vitale, ainsi que de nous avoir rappele l'importante contribution de Bertha Lutz a la Charte des Nations Unies et aux droits des femmes.

Nombre d'entre vous ont visite l'exposition presentee a l'exterieur du batiment de l'ONU.

Vous avez vu les images de ces femmes qui incarnent le programme dont nous discutons aujourd'hui.

Des femmes qui luttent contre l'injustice, batissent la paix et prennent la place qui leur revient a la table des negociations.

C'est la un apercu de l'immense contribution des femmes a la paix et a la securite dans le monde. C'est aussi un temoignage du pouvoir de leadership des femmes.

Le monde doit en prendre note. Et il doit s'en inspirer.

Car aujourd'hui, nous sommes au bord du precipice.

Les conflits font rage. Les tensions montent. Les coups d'Etat eclatent.

L'autoritarisme est en marche. La menace nucleaire prend de l'ampleur. Le chaos climatique exacerbe les problemes de securite. Et la mefiance empoisonne les affaires mondiales et affaiblit notre capacite a reagir.

Les chiffres parlent d'eux-memes quant a l'etat desastreux du monde dans lequel nous vivons :

Les depenses militaires ont atteint un niveau record.

L'ampleur des deplacements dus a la violence, aux conflits et aux persecutions atteint un niveau record.

Et le nombre de femmes et de filles vivant dans des pays menaces par les combats a augmente de cinquante pour cent par rapport a 2017.

La ou les guerres font rage, les femmes souffrent.

La ou regnent l'autoritarisme et l'insecurite, les droits des femmes et des filles sont menaces.

Nous le voyons partout dans le monde :

Au Soudan et en Haiti, ou les femmes et les jeunes filles sont brutalisees et terrorisees par la violence sexuelle.

En Afghanistan, ou le deni des droits fondamentaux des femmes aneantit des vies et prive les populations d'une aide vitale.

Et en Ukraine, ou les femmes et les jeunes filles qui fuient l'invasion russe risquent d'etre la proie de trafiquants et d'agresseurs.

Au Moyen-Orient, ou les femmes et les filles sont touchees de maniere disproportionnee par la violence, les effusions de sang et les deplacements forces.

Des femmes et des jeunes filles font partie des nombreuses victimes des atrocites brutales commises par le Hamas.

Et plus de la moitie des victimes des bombardements incessants sur Gaza sont des femmes et des enfants. Des dizaines de milliers de femmes enceintes essaient desesperement d'acceder a des soins de sante essentiels.

Monsieur le President,

Face a ce sombre tableau, il est plus urgent que jamais de garantir la participation pleine et veritable des femmes a la paix et a la securite.

Vingt-trois ans apres l'adoption de la resolution 1325 par le Conseil, la participation des femmes devrait etre la norme, et non une preoccupation secondaire.

Or, tel n'est pas le cas.

Dans le monde entier, les femmes sont a la tete de l'action menee en faveur de la paix, de la justice et des droits.

Pourtant, bien trop d'organisations de femmes peinent a financer le travail essentiel qu'elles menent, alors que les depenses militaires s'envolent.

Bien trop d'auteurs de violences sexuelles demeurent en liberte.

Et les femmes sont laissees de cote dans bien trop de processus de paix.

En effet, sur les 18 accords de paix conclus l'annee derniere, un seul a ete signe par une representante d'un groupe ou d'une organisation de femmes.

Malgre tous nos efforts, on ne comptait que 16 pour cent de negociatrices et de representantes dans les processus de paix diriges ou codiriges par l'ONU.

Notre monde et notre culture sont domines par les hommes.

Le patriarcat qui existe depuis des siecles constitue un obstacle majeur a l'egalite des genres et, par consequent, a une culture de paix.

Partout dans le monde, les droits des femmes sont attaques, de meme que les personnes qui les defendent.

Au moins sept femmes qui ont fait un expose au Conseil l'annee derniere ont declare avoir subi des represailles.

La violence a l'egard des femmes - en ligne comme hors ligne - est endemique. Elle constitue un obstacle majeur et un frein a la participation a la vie civile et politique.

Au rythme actuel, il faudra attendre encore pres d'un demi-siecle avant que les femmes ne soient equitablement representees dans les parlements nationaux.

La resolution de ce probleme n'est pas une faveur faite aux femmes. C'est une question de droits, de justice et de pragmatisme.

Le soutien aux femmes ne peut etre que benefique pour le monde entier.

Nous savons que les processus auxquels les femmes sont associees conduisent a une paix plus perenne.

Nous savons que les parlements ou les femmes sont autant representees que les hommes tendent a consacrer davantage de moyens a la sante, a l'education et a la protection sociale et a reduire la corruption.

Monsieur le President,

Il y a des lueurs d'espoir. On trouve dans le rapport de cette annee des bonnes pratiques et des exemples de reussite dans la mise en uvre des priorites concernant les femmes et la paix et la securite.

En Colombie, on observe une parite des genres dans les negociations de paix.

En Iraq, en Republique centrafricaine et en Syrie, des auteurs de violences sexuelles sont traduits en justice.

L'ONU est determinee a collaborer avec les pays pour faire progresser les questions relatives aux femmes et a la paix et a la securite.

Dans le cadre de nos operations, nous venons en aide aux femmes, mettons en lumiere le travail essentiel qu'elles accomplissent et faisons resonner leur voix.

Le Fonds des Nations Unies pour les femmes, la paix et l'action humanitaire a contribue a aider plus d'un millier d'organisations locales de femmes depuis sa creation en 2016.

Nous avons egalement progresse pour ce qui est de la representation equilibree des genres dans les missions de maintien de la paix.

Il n'en reste pas moins que le monde doit de toute urgence combler le fosse qui existe entre les discours et la realite en ce qui concerne la question des femmes et de la paix et de la securite.

Le debat que nous consacrons chaque annee a cette question est souvent celui qui compte le plus grand nombre d'interventions.

Mais les progres tardent a se concretiser, stagnent, voire reculent.

Il nous appartient des maintenant de mettre en uvre l'ensemble des priorites concernant les femmes et la paix et la securite.

Parce que les femmes en ont assez d'etre exclues des decisions qui faconnent leur vie ;

Parce qu'elles en ont assez que leur travail ne soit pas reconnu ;

Parce qu'elles en ont assez des menaces et de la violence ;

Parce qu'elles en ont assez de promesses non tenues.

Les femmes exigent des mesures concretes qui permettent d'aller reellement de l'avant.

Premierement, il faut prendre des mesures pour que les femmes participent aux pourparlers de paix.

J'encourage les gouvernements qui contribuent a la mediation des conflits a fixer des objectifs ambitieux en ce qui concerne les femmes dans les equipes de negociation.

Deuxiemement, il faut mettre de l'argent sur la table.

Si nous voulons etre solidaires des actrices du changement, si nous voulons soutenir les femmes qui endurent des conflits, si nous voulons lever les obstacles a la participation et si nous voulons que les organisations de femmes obtiennent des resultats, nous ne devons pas lesiner sur les moyens.

Or, d'apres les derniers chiffres, l'aide financiere allouee a l'egalite des genres dans les situations de conflit est en declin.

J'exhorte les pays qui octroient une aide publique au developpement a en consacrer quinze pour cent a l'egalite des genres.

De plus, quinze pour cent des fonds destines aux activites de mediation doivent servir a promouvoir la participation des femmes.

J'engage egalement ces pays a allouer - au strict minimum - un pour cent de l'aide publique au developpement a l'assistance directe aux organisations de femmes qui se mobilisent pour la paix.

La campagne  Invest-in-Women  (Investir dans les femmes) du Fonds pour les femmes, la paix et l'action humanitaire vise a collecter 300 millions de dollars d'ici a la fin de 2025.

Je vous invite a consacrer toute votre energie a cet effort.

Troisiemement, nous devons prendre des mesures concretes pour que les femmes participent pleinement, effectivement et sur un pied d'egalite a tous les niveaux de la prise de decisions concernant la paix et la securite, ainsi qu'a tous les echelons de la vie politique et civile.

Cela suppose de promouvoir une representation equitable des femmes au sein des administrations nationales et locales et des parlements.

J'ai ete premier ministre et chef d'un parti politique. Je sais que les quotas, les objectifs et les mesures incitatives fonctionnent.

Il nous faut une legislation solide et complete pour lutter contre les violences a l'egard des femmes - a la fois en ligne et hors ligne - et pour mettre fin a l'impunite dont beneficient leurs auteurs.

Il nous faut aussi tirer le meilleur parti du Sommet de l'avenir, qui se tiendra l'annee prochaine, pour faire avancer la question des femmes, de la paix et de la securite.

En effet, le Sommet est l'occasion de reformer et de redynamiser le multilateralisme pour qu'il permette de relever les defis d'aujourd'hui.

En prevision du Sommet, la note d'orientation sur le Nouvel Agenda pour la paix que j'ai etablie met le leadership et la participation des femmes au centre de la prise de decisions.

Je vous invite a examiner attentivement les propositions qui y sont faites.

Monsieur le President,

Dans un monde en plein chaos, les minutes sont comptees avant le vingtcinquieme anniversaire de la resolution 1325.

Un quart de siecle suffit amplement pour realiser des progres.

Il faut traduire l'energie, l'engagement et l'attention de cette salle en changements sur le terrain et en argent sur la table.

Ce n'est plus le moment d'hesiter, de tergiverser ou d'attendre.

A compter d'aujourd'hui, nous devons soutenir les actrices du changement dont nous exposons fierement les portraits a l'exterieur de ce batiment.

L'etat du monde l'exige.

Et les femmes et les filles n'en attendent pas moins, et ce a juste titre.

Je vous remercie.

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Unmanned Surface Vessel Division Arrives in Sydney

US Navy

25 October 2023

From U.S. 7th Fleet Public Affairs

SYDNEY, Australia -- Unmanned Surface Vessel Division One's (USVDIV-1) unmanned surface vessels (USVs) Ranger, Mariner, Seahawk and Sea Hunter arrived in Sydney, Australia, for a scheduled port visit October 24 ahead of their participation in bilateral exercises with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

During the exercises, USVDIV-1 will collaborate with the RAN on testing unmanned systems in concert with industry partners to advance a shared understanding of these capabilities to meet strategic requirements.

"I look forward to furthering the strong relationship our navies have worked hard to create," said U.S. Navy Commander Jeremiah Daley, commanding officer of USVDIV-1. "Our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific relies upon developing these advanced capabilities that will create the asymmetric warfighting advantages to deter aggression in contested environments."

Along with the USVs, the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Oakland also arrived in Sydney. All five U.S. Navy vessels are currently employed in the ongoing U.S. Pacific Fleet exercise Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 23.2 to develop concepts of operations for future unmanned programs of record and further integrated USVs into routine operations alongside manned surface combatants.

"In order to develop a program as different and disruptive as small, medium, and large USVs, integrating with allies and partners early and consistently in its development is key to our success," said Daley. "Through exercises like IBP 23.2 and Autonomous Warrior, we continue to learn from experience in an operational theater and deepen our interoperable strength."

USVDIV-1's mission is to test, evaluate and operate in support of integrating USVs into fleet operations and provide recommendations to Navy leadership on the development of unmanned systems.

U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

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As War Rages, Biden Renews Call for Palestinian State Alongside Israel

By VOA News October 25, 2023

Latest Developments:

Hezbollah leader hosts talks with Hamas, Islamic Jihad senior leaders.

U.S. rejects calls for immediate cease-fire, saying that would only benefit Hamas.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, mostly civilians in the initial Hamas attack on October 7.

Palestinian death toll in Gaza had reached at least 6,546 people, the majority women and children.

Even as war rages between Israel and Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip, U.S. President Joe Biden voiced support Wednesday for what now seems like a distant goal  the long-sought U.S. wish for separate, autonomous Israeli and Palestinian states.

Biden said at a White House news conference that "the aspirations of Palestinians cannot be ignored. Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and peace."

The U.S. leader said he is alarmed by "extremist settlers" attacking Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. He called it "pouring gasoline on fire," and said the settlers are "attacking Palestinians in places they're entitled to be."

Biden also expressed concern for the safety of more than 200 hostages, some of them believed to be Americans, captured by Hamas during its shock October 7 attack on Israel.

"Obviously they're in jeopardy," Biden said. "If we can get them out, we should."

Hamas has released four hostages in recent days, an American woman and her daughter and two elderly Israeli women. But the State Department warned in a statement of how difficult the release of more will be.

"You can imagine how complicated it is," the statement said. "We're dealing with Israel, Egypt, and Hamas, and we're not talking directly to Hamas. Egypt can send messages to Hamas. Qatar can send messages to Hamas. But you can imagine how difficult every little thing is. Every bit of this is complicated.

"It's like unlocking a puzzle where you unlock a layer that can unlock one little piece of it," the State Department added. "And then another obstacle pops up, and you've got to go figure out with all the parties, how to unlock that piece."

Israel says that in the initial shock attack on October 7, Hamas killed about 1,400 Israelis.

The Hamas-controlled Health Ministry said the death toll in Gaza had reached at least 6,546 people, the majority of them women and children.

But Biden said he has "no confidence in the Hamas death toll."

"I have no notion that Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed," Biden said. "I'm sure innocents have been killed. And that's the price of waging a war."

The Israeli military said Wednesday it carried out airstrikes targeting Hamas militant sites in the Gaza Strip, as well as strikes against military sites in Syria.

The military said the targets of the Gaza strikes included Hamas tunnels, munitions warehouses and missile launching stations.

Syrian state media said Israeli attacks killed eight Syrian soldiers and wounded seven others in Daraa province.

Israel's military said its jets conducted the strikes in response to rockets being launched from Syria toward Israel.

The cross-border attacks come amid worries that the Israel-Hamas war could spiral into a larger regional conflict.

Israel has warned Iran-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon not to join the war.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah hosted senior Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders for talks on Wednesday. A statement said the leaders discussed what to do to achieve victory "for the resistance in Gaza."

The U.N. Palestinian refugee relief agency has warned that if it does not receive urgent shipments of fuel, it could be forced to halt its operations in Gaza within hours.

Several rounds of aid deliveries have reached Gaza from Egypt this week, but officials described the quantity as vastly insufficient to meet the needs of the Palestinians living with dire shortages of food, water and medicine. The deliveries have not included any fuel.

The U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) said nearly 600,000 people were sheltering in 150 of its facilities in Gaza after fleeing their homes.

"Our shelters are four times over their capacities  many people are sleeping in the streets as current facilities are overwhelmed," UNRWA said on X.

With the death toll mounting in Gaza, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called Tuesday for a cease-fire in Gaza, although he also condemned the Hamas attack on Israel.

Israel rejected Guterres' cease-fire demand and called for his resignation after he said the Hamas attack on Israel did not occur in a vacuum, because "the Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation" by Israel.

In Washington, White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby also rejected an immediate cease-fire, saying it would only benefit Hamas militants. However, Kirby did not rule out a humanitarian pause to allow more aid to be moved into Gaza to assist hundreds of thousands of displaced people.

With Israel planning a ground assault into Gaza, Kirby warned of more bloodshed and civilian casualties to come.

"This is war. It is combat. It is bloody. It is ugly, and it's going to be messy," he told reporters at the White House. "And innocent civilians are going to be hurt going forward. I wish I could tell you something different. I wish that that wasn't going to happen."

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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UN: Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza Reaches 'Unprecedented Point'

By Margaret Besheer October 25, 2023

The United Nations warned on Wednesday that the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip had reached an "unprecedented point," as Israel stepped up its calls for the U.N. chief to resign over comments a day earlier.

"The U.N. Relief and Works Agency, UNRWA, by far the largest humanitarian provider in Gaza, warned that unless fuel is allowed into Gaza immediately, UNRWA will be forced to halt operations tonight," U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters.

He said hospitals are shutting down because of a lack of fuel, water, medical supplies and personnel. Fuel is also being "severely rationed" and used to run select critical facilities.

The U.N. has 400,000 liters of fuel that has been waiting for days to cross from Egypt through the Rafah border crossing into Gaza. So far, Israel has not given the security guarantees necessary to safely deliver it, arguing that Hamas is hoarding large quantities of fuel, and it accuses Hamas of planning to divert at least some of any new deliveries for military purposes.

Food is also running short.

"The World Food Program estimates that current supplies of essential food in Gaza are sufficient for about 12 days," Dujarric said. "However, at shops, the available stock is expected to last for only five days."

He said the water situation is also grave, with people drinking well water, which the U.N. says is high in salt and poses health risks.

About 2.2 million people live in the Gaza Strip, and the United Nations estimates more than 1.4 million of them have been displaced by the hostilities that erupted following Hamas' deadly Oct. 7 terror attack on Israeli towns and cities.

Since then, Israel has been bombing Hamas targets in Gaza and has put the Hamas-controlled territory under siege. After two weeks of international negotiations, limited water, food and medical supplies were allowed into Gaza on Saturday.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told a Security Council meeting on Tuesday that the relief so far is "a drop of aid in an ocean of need."

Security Council still stalled

For the second time in a week, the Security Council failed to adopt a resolution calling for some kind of halt to the hostilities to assist aid deliveries. Last week, two separate attempts to get a resolution offering relief to Gazans failed  one due to a veto by the United States.

On Wednesday, geopolitical divisions were on display in the council as Russia and China used their vetoes to block a U.S.-drafted resolution that called for humanitarian pauses and affirmed the right of states to defend themselves against terrorism, among other provisions.

Russia put forward an alternative draft that failed to win the necessary support.

Malta, speaking for the 10 elected members of the 15-nation council, said their group would begin working immediately on another text in hopes of finding a compromise.

Israel has rejected the idea of a cease-fire with Hamas, saying the only response is the "total destruction" of the group.

While the Security Council returns to negotiations, the General Assembly will take up the issue in a special emergency session on Thursday.

Jordan, as head of the Arab Group of nations at the U.N., has drafted a resolution seeking an immediate cease-fire as well as the immediate and continuous provision of sufficient humanitarian aid to Gaza, and rejecting "any attempts at forced transfer of the Palestinian population."

Many Arab countries are concerned that Israel's evacuation order to more than a million Gazans is an attempt to forcibly transfer them from their land. While General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, they do carry the moral weight of the international community.

Diplomatic spat

Meanwhile, Israel says it is reassessing its relations with the United Nations after it was outraged by remarks the U.N. chief made in the Security Council on Tuesday.

Guterres, who has repeatedly and strongly condemned Hamas' terror attack and called for the immediate release of the more than 200 hostages the militants hold, said it is important to recognize that the attack "did not happen in a vacuum."

"The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation," he said, adding that their land has been "steadily devoured" by settlements and plagued by violence.

He said that Palestinian grievances "cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas" but added that the terror attack cannot "justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people."

Israel's foreign minister canceled a meeting Tuesday with the U.N. chief in protest, and his U.N. envoy went further, calling for Guterres to resign and saying Israel would have to reassess its relations with the United Nations. It has since threatened to stop issuing visas for U.N. personnel.

On Wednesday, Guterres addressed the diplomatic flap.

"I am shocked by the misinterpretations by some of my statement yesterday in the Security Council  as if I was justifying acts of terror by Hamas," he told reporters. "This is false. It was the opposite."

Israel's envoy doubled down on his calls for Guterres to resign.

"It is a disgrace to the U.N. that the secretary-general does not retract his words and is not even able to apologize for what he said yesterday," Gilad Erdan said in a statement. "He must resign."

Guterres' spokesperson said the U.N. chief "has absolutely no comment on his calls for his resignation."

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UNCTAD Report: Billions Needed to Rebuild Gaza's Shattered Infrastructure, Economy

By Lisa Schlein October 25, 2023

Billions of dollars in international economic aid will be needed to reverse decades of border closures, military operations and de-development in Gaza, according to a report published Wednesday by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, UNCTAD.

"While lifting all restrictions is a necessary condition for sustainable recovery, it is by no means sufficient," the report said.

"Donors and the international community need to extend significant economic aid to repair the extensive damage Gaza has experienced under prolonged restrictions and closures and frequent military operations, which has stifled the economy and decimated infrastructure," it said.

The report documents economic conditions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories through the end of 2022, prior to the current chain of disastrous events triggered by the October 7 assault on Israel by Hamas militants.

"The economic consequences of the current and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza are important to determine," said Richard Kozul-Wright, UNCTAD director, division on globalization and development strategies.

He said it was incredibly difficult to assess the damage.

"It is buildings. It is hospitals. It is very difficult to make a proper assessment until the fighting stops but it has got to be in the billions of dollars  in the tens of billions of dollars," said Kozul-Wright. "What I think the report emphasizes is the worrying trend in aid to the Palestinian economy, plus its inability to generate its own fiscal revenues in an independent way."

The report says Israel's decades-long blockade of Gaza has hollowed out its economy, leaving 80% of the population dependent on international aid. It also says nearly half of Gaza's population is unemployed and that real GDP per capita is close to its lowest level since 1994.

Authors of the report note that since three-quarters of Palestinian trade is with Israel and the Israeli shekel is the main currency in circulation, Israel has a lot of control over the Palestinian Authorities' fiscal policy.

"Israel collects Palestinian trade taxes because all Palestinian import and export goes through Israel or through Israeli controlled borders," said Mutasim Elagraa, coordinator of UNCTAD assistance to the Palestinian people.

"Israel effectively controls two-thirds of Palestinian tax revenue and transfers it to the Palestinian government," he said noting that Israel sometimes delays the transfer or even freezes the transfer, which "makes Palestinians fiscally vulnerable."

On October 21, Israel partially lifted its siege of Gaza, allowing several convoys of food, water, and medical supplies to enter the territory. However, the Israeli government has refused to allow fuel into the Gaza Strip, claiming that Hamas has fuel that it is hoarding for use in military operations.

"Lack of fuel will have a profound impact on the humanitarian support that the U.N. is currently providing and is an essential lifeline of many of the inhabitants of Gaza," said Kozul-Wright. "So, I think the impact will be immediate on the ground, but it will be difficult to know what its longer-term impact will be on the Gazan economy."

In its concluding remarks, the UNCTAD report recommends that the "vicious circle of destruction and partial reconstruction [of Gaza] needs to be broken by negotiating a peaceful solution, based on international law, and relevant United Nations and Security Council resolutions, to end hostilities."

While increasing donor support will be important for the recovery of Gaza's economy, the report notes that this "should not be viewed as a substitute for ending restrictions and closures" and calls on Israel and all parties "to bear their responsibilities under international law."

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Taliban Tout Islamic Rule, Claim 'General Amnesty' Reunited Afghans

By Ayaz Gul October 25, 2023

The Taliban are pushing back against persistent global criticism of their Islamic governance in Afghanistan, claiming their supreme leader's decrees, including a general amnesty, have promoted national reconciliation and put the war-torn country on the path to stability.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief Taliban spokesman, Wednesday posted a 40-minute promotional video documentary on social media, showcasing some of the decrees and touting their "good" outcomes more than two years into their male-only government, known as the Islamic Emirate.

However, the video did not discuss several other decrees issued by reclusive Taliban supreme leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, that placed an indefinite ban on Afghan girls' education beyond the sixth grade and barred most women from workplaces, including the United Nations and other aid groups.

"The general amnesty has reunited Afghans," Mujahid wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter, with the video. He referred to the decree that reclusive Taliban chief Hibatullah Akhundzada first issued after the then-insurgent group reclaimed power from a U.S.-backed government in August 2021.

The amnesty covered all members and politicians associated with the ousted Afghan government and individuals who worked for the U.S.-led Western troops during their presence in Afghanistan for almost two decades.

While appearing in the documentary, Mujahid said that the amnesty decree was being enforced "effectively and seriously" nationwide by Taliban authorities, saying those found guilty of breaching it in "a few instances" were brought to justice and jailed.

Mujahid's social media post came a day after a senior U.N. diplomat renewed allegations the Taliban's "repressive policies and practices" were responsible for a deteriorating human rights situation in Afghanistan.

"There is a culture of impunity for torture and inhumane treatment in detention centers, as well as for human rights violations against former government officials and military personnel, despite promises made to the contrary," Richard Bennett, the special rapporteur on the situation of Afghan human rights, told a U.N. meeting in New York on Tuesday.

Last August, a U.N. report accused Taliban fighters of committing more than 200 extrajudicial killings since taking power despite the general amnesty. It documented at least 800 alleged offenses, including arbitrary arrests and detention, ill-treatment, torture, and enforced disappearances of former Afghan officials and security personnel.

The Taliban at the time rejected the U.N. findings, declaring them unfounded and propaganda to malign their administration.

While speaking Tuesday, the U.S. representative told the U.N. meeting that the Taliban continue to issue edicts targeting women and girls, human rights defenders, women's rights activists, journalists, former government officials, and other vulnerable Afghan groups, including religious minorities.

"Until the Taliban honors their word to respect the human rights of all Afghans, the international community must monitor the situation in Afghanistan with vigilance and hold the Taliban accountable," said David Johnson, U.S. senior advisor for South and Central Asia.

Taliban officials have repeatedly rejected criticism of their policies, saying they are aligned with Afghan culture and Islamic law.

The Taliban documentary hailed Akhundzada's decree on women's rights, saying it prohibited forced marriages of women and ensured their right to inheritance, dowry, and fair treatment, among other rights, within Islamic law, or Sharia.

The video also highlighted "among others, the decree outlawing poppy cultivation in Afghanistan, which is known as the world's largest producer of narcotics.

"Now we believe that we do not have even one percent of poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. God willing, in the coming days, we will have an Afghanistan free of drug cultivation and smuggling," Mujahid said.

Recent media reports and satellite images backed by the U.N. and the U.S. have concluded that annual poppy cultivation "significantly" decreased in the country. However, critics remain skeptical about whether the gains are sustainable, noting that de facto Afghan authorities have not yet provided an alternative livelihood program for farmers affected by the ban in the impoverished nation.

The U.N. Office on Drugs and Crimes, in its report last month, revealed that Afghanistan had become the world's fastest-growing producer of methamphetamine. It noted that the highly addictive stimulant is mainly made from legally available substances or extracted from the ephedra plant, which grows in the wild.

The Taliban documentary commentator echoed its government's assertions that Akhundzada's decrees "are based on the demands of a healthy and Islamic society and raised the hopes of Afghans for a better future."

No foreign government has recognized the Taliban government over human rights concerns and their treatment of Afghan women.

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Canada Admits Nearly 40,000 Afghans, Willing to Take More

By Akmal Dawi October 25, 2023

Canada is on the brink of fulfilling its commitment to accept 40,000 Afghans before the end of this year.

The pledge, made by Ottawa in August 2021 when the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan, was driven by concerns for the safety of Afghans who had collaborated with Canadian programs and the former Afghan government.

In the past two years, Canada has successfully assisted the resettlement of at least 39,730 Afghans, as reported by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

More than half of these refugees have been admitted under a humanitarian program specifically tailored for human rights activists, journalists, religious and ethnic minority groups, and LGBTI individuals.

An additional 12,000 Afghans, who had worked for the Canadian government in Afghanistan before 2021, found safety in Canada through a special immigration visa program.

"Canada's Afghan resettlement commitment is one of the largest on a per capita basis in the world and is second only to that of the United States in overall numbers," Mary Rose Sabater, IRCC's communication adviser, told VOA.

Among those resettled across Canada, at least 17,000 are women, many of whom are former government employees, lawmakers and civil society activists.

Afghan women have been disproportionately affected by the Taliban's rule, which is often referred to as the world's only gender-apartheid system, denying them fundamental rights such as education and employment.

Even after reaching the commitment of 40,000 Afghan refugees this year, Canada intends to maintain its flexibility in providing shelter to at-risk Afghans in the future.

"Afghans may also be eligible for regular immigration programs, including economic, family reunification and refugee resettlement programs  they may be referred for resettlement by the United Nations Refugee Agency and other organizations. Canadians can also continue to privately sponsor Afghan refugees," Sabater said.

Canada's government has earmarked approximately $615 million ($844.3 million Canadian) in resettlement services for the Afghan refugees including a 12-month income support program that pays for accommodation, food and health care.

Permanent residents

One distinctive aspect of Canada's approach is the ease with which Afghans become permanent legal residents upon their arrival.

"Canada processes refugees overseas before admitting them to Canada," said Sabater.

After residing in Canada for five years, of which three must be spent within the country, these permanent residents will be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.

In contrast, the United States is currently navigating legislative hurdles to approve the Afghan Adjustment Act, which is expected to establish legal pathways for long-term residence and naturalization of tens of thousands of Afghans who entered the U.S. under humanitarian parole in 2021.

While the act is mired in Congressional debates, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently extended the parole deadline until May 2025.

The U.S. military airlifted 124,000 individuals out of Kabul in August 2021 of which at least 77,000 were offered a temporary humanitarian parole in the United States.

"After reviewing the country conditions in Afghanistan and consulting with interagency partners, Secretary [Alejandro] Mayorkas determined that an 18-month TPS [temporary parole status] extension and redesignation is warranted because conditions, including armed conflict, that support Afghanistan's TPS designation are ongoing," the DHS said in a statement.

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Sudan Cease-Fire Talks to Resume Thursday in Saudi Arabia

By Nike Ching October 25, 2023

Talks between Sudan's warring factions will resume Thursday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a focus on securing access for humanitarian aid to reach beleaguered civilians, according to senior U.S. State Department officials.

The United States and Saudi Arabia have brokered multiple cease-fires between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) at talks in Jeddah since May, but fighting has continued in Khartoum and elsewhere, with each side accusing the other of cease-fire violations.

The U.S. adjourned the talks on June 21.

"The new round will focus on ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, achieving cease-fires, and other confidence-building measures to create conditions for the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance," a senior official said.

The official emphasized that Thursday's talks will not tackle political matters, as both belligerents have been clearly informed that "there is no acceptable military solution to this conflict."

The SAF and RSF have been fighting each other since April 15, triggering a humanitarian crisis in Sudan and in neighboring countries.

Senior U.S. officials have stated that both sides, by choosing to pursue conflicts that involve indiscriminate artillery and drone strikes causing civilian casualties, have demonstrated their unsuitability for governance in post-conflict Sudan.

Sudan's neighbors in the Horn of Africa are playing a role in the latest negotiations as the regional bloc IGAD, or Intergovernmental Authority on Development, will facilitate the resumed talks.

IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, a former foreign minister of Ethiopia, will take part in the talks for the African Union.

"We've been in constant communication with our colleagues from IGAD, as well as the African Union. They are in agreement that relaunching Jeddah is essential," another senior State Department official told reporters in a phone briefing.

IGAD is one of the regional economic communities recognized by the African Union. It has eight members: Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda.

Sudanese civilians need access to the essentials of life, which include food, shelter, medicine and security, says Alex Rondos, senior adviser for United States Institute of Peace's Africa Center.

"The toughest and boldest decision for Sudan is whether an external force will be needed to protect supply routes, logistics centers and critical infrastructure," Rondos wrote in a recent Peace Institute publication.

Sudan has become the largest internal displacement crisis in the world. An estimated 5.6 million people have been displaced within and outside Sudan after more than six months of fighting, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.

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Kenya's Judiciary Proposes Abolishing Death Penalty, Reducing Sentences

By Mohammed Yusuf October 25, 2023

The chief justice of Kenya has sent a proposal to parliament that calls for removing the death penalty for the crimes of murder, violent theft and treason, saying the proposed changes aim to put the country's laws more in line with international human rights standards.

Kenya's Chief Justice Martha Koome is seeking changes to certain laws drafted in 1930, before Kenya gained independence, that seek harsher penalties for capital offenders.

Senator Samson Cherargei, a ruling party member of parliament, said he supports the proposed change to the death penalty.

"The right to life is very critical in our constitution and should not be taken in any format, even legally or illegally," he said.

Bob Mkangi, a constitutional lawyer, said Kenyan laws need to change so that they reflect reality.

"For instance," he said, "the death penalty  is there in our law books. But as Kenyans are aware, we sort of have a silent moratorium on the issue, because even those who have been condemned to death, no one has ever been hanged since the mid or late '80s."

The judiciary also advocates changing the life sentence penalty to a maximum of 30 years. Some lawmakers, including Cherargei, are opposed to reducing the length of life sentences.

Congested prisons have long been a problem in Kenya, and legal experts say correctional facilities are filled with inmates convicted of petty crimes who have become a burden to taxpayers.

Prisons should be correctional and rehabilitation facilities and not just a place to house and punish offenders, Mkangi said.

"There are alternatives for dealing with some of these offenses," he said. "Not everyone needs to be locked up, which again has a cost implication for the taxpayer."

Mkangi said that because the criminal justice system's philosophy is correction and rehabilitation, it doesn't make sense to sentence someone to life in prison.

"How can you say you're rehabilitating someone if you say they will be condemned to death, or they will be condemned custodially forever?" he said.

Kenya's judiciary also aims to revise legal codes to safeguard intersex individuals within the criminal justice system; transfer the burden of proof in cases of incitement to violence and disobedience from the defendant to the prosecution; and abolish some minor offenses.

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WHO calls for immediate release, access to, and medical support for hostages taken by Hamas

25 October 2023 Statement

Gravely concerned by the humanitarian and health situation facing approximately 200 people, including health workers and up to 30 children, abducted from Israel by Hamas and other armed groups on 7 October 2023, the World Health Organization today reiterated its call for the immediate release of all the hostages, along with urgent access to each of them and delivery of medical care.

The call was made by WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus following discussions today with an Israeli non-governmental organization, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, that represents families of the abducted people.

"We met today with families of people abducted from southern Israel on 7 October and heard firsthand the tragedy, trauma and suffering they are facing," said Dr Tedros. "There is an urgent need for the captors of the hostages to provide signs of life, proof of provision of health care and the immediate release, on humanitarian and health grounds, of all those abducted."

"Many of the hostages, including children, women and the elderly, have pre-existing health conditions requiring urgent and sustained care and treatment. The mental health trauma that the abducted, and the families, are facing is acute and psychosocial support is of great importance."

Dr Tedros said the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) should be granted immediate access to the hostages to understand their health status. WHO stands ready to provide the ICRC, which is mandated to provide support to hostages in conflict situations, with any health support for the hostages, Dr Tedros added.

"I thank the families for sharing their heartbreaking stories. I committed, on behalf of WHO, to do all we can to support the health and humanitarian needs of those being held captive. All civilians who are suffering in this conflict must be protected."

Dr Tedros added: "We will do everything in our power as WHO to protect and promote the health of all people as that is the mission of our Organization: to care for each and everybody's health no matter the conditions and circumstances. We call on WHO Member States, humanitarian partners, all other relevant parties, and the public at large to put the health of people first and foremost in their minds and take immediate action to end the ongoing suffering."

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Operation Iron Swords - Day 19 - 25 October 2023

Palestinian armed group Hamas launched thousands of missiles at Israel and deployed its militants to infiltrate Jewish settlements near the countrys border with Gaza on 07 October 2023. The 1,200 Israelis killed on the first day would be the equivalent of 36,000 Americans killed in an attack, as a proportion to Israels population of 9.3 million people (compared to 332 million in the USA). Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated: Not since the Holocaust have so many Jews been killed in one day". PM Netanyahu stated "On October 7th, Hamas murdered 1,400 Israelis. Maybe more. This is in a country of fewer than 10 million people. This would be equivalent to over 50,000 Americans murdered in a single day. Thats twenty 9/11s. That is why October 7th is another day that will live in infamy."

Israel said it had dropped over 6,000 bombs on the Gaza Strip since Hamas's attack on October 7, nearly matching the number of bombs the US used in Afghanistan in one year. The IDF had, by its own admission, dropped 4,000 tons of high-explosive bombs on Gaza  a quarter of the explosive power of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The HAMAS had reportedlly fired about 7400 rockets at Israel. The group said it launched 5,000 rockets in the initial barrage. Israels military said 2,500 rockets were fired.

Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that over the past 24 hours, Israeli bombings have killed 756 people, 344 of them children. The Gaza Strip's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse. Within 48 hours, the last supplies of diesel in those hospitals that are still functioning will run out. The Palestinian health ministry said on 24 October 2023 that Israeli airstrikes had killed more than 700 Palestinians in Gaza overnight, and ministry spokesman Ashraf Al-Qidra said it was the highest 24-hour death toll in Israels two-week-old siege of the narrow strip.

In a statement released on social media, the Palestinian health ministry said at least 6,546 Palestinians had been killed by Israeli bombardments since October 7 including 2,704 children, with 17,500 injured. Israel launched drone strikes on occupied West Bank. The Palestinian death toll in the West Bank since the start of the current conflict on October 7 has risen to 103, including two in Israeli prisons, according to a count by Anadolu based on official figures.

At least 80 more Palestinians were detained in Israeli raids in occupied West Bank in last 24 hours. 1:34 p.m. - Many forces of the IDF, the Shin Bet and the Israel Defense Forces operated tonight in many locations throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Brigade to counter terrorism and arrested 68 wanted persons suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. 58 of them are active in the terrorist organization Hamas.

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs claimed that Hamas continues to hold at least 222 abducted persons. Israeli officials were reportedly disappointed with the statements made by the 85-year-old freed Israeli hostage describing her experience during Hamas captivity because she had not been prepared ahead of the live interview. Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, Yocheved Lifshitz, said that she was beaten on Oct. 7 when Hamas militants stormed Israel and captured civilians but later they treated her gently, and had a doctor examine her during her two-week captivity in the Palestinian enclave. Citing Israeli sources, the state-owned Kan News reported that allowing Lifshitz to make a live statement was a mistake, adding that they were uncertain if anyone had a preliminary discussion with her on the issue.

IDF struck several terrorists and Hamas infrastructure, including terror tunnel shafts, military headquarters, weapons warehouses, mortar launchers and anti-tank missile launchers. Furthermore, the IDF struck Hamas emergency operational apparatus, including war rooms, infrastructure and military headquarters. Hamas emergency operational apparatus was responsible for setting up blockades that prevented Gazans from evacuating to safer areas in the southern Gaza Strip. Additionally, the IDF struck military infrastructure and command centers of Hamas' security apparatus, which is responsible for overseeing the terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip and arresting and imprisoning Hamas' opponents.

IDF fighter jets struck military infrastructure and mortar launchers belonging to the Syrian Army in response to the launches toward Israel yesterday. IDF warplanes attacked several military targets of the terrorist organization Hezbollah in Lebanon. During the attack, terrorist infrastructures were destroyed, including a military compound and an observation post of the terrorist organization Hezbollah.

Israeli air strikes had forced 70 percent of Gazas population to flee their homes amid harsh living conditions, the Palestinian government media office in the blockaded enclave said. Around 1.4 million Palestinians have been displaced, Salama Maarouf, a spokesman for the media office in Gaza, said. He said the displaced civilians have taken shelter at 223 spots, including hospitals, schools, churches, and health care centres. WHO documented 171 attacks on health care in occupied Palestinian territory between Oct. 7 and 24, as Israel's war on Gaza continued. The WHO office in the occupied Palestinian territory said on X that 493 people, including 16 health workers on duty, were killed in these attacks. "Health care and civilians must be protected now," it urged. According to the UN health agency, 96 of these attacks occurred in the occupied West Bank and occupied East Jerusalem, while 75 in Gaza.

The Palestine Information Center (Maata), which is specialized in monitoring resistance activities and various confrontations in the West Bank, indicated that the resistance fighters had carried out more than 1,337 resistance and popular actions since the beginning of the Al-Aqsa Flood battle, including 384 shooting operations and 60 specific operations. The confrontations in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem since the start of the battle resulted in the martyrdom of 109 Palestinians, distributed across various governorates in 316 confrontation areas, and the number of prisoners exceeded 1,350, including factional and community leaders and liberated prisoners.

The confrontations were concentrated in the known contact points in the West Bank, starting with the settlement streets and military sites in the vicinity of Jenin and Tulkarm. Resistance groups continued to target settlements and military sites, and in Qalqilya, where Azzun took the lead in the confrontation as usual, and in the areas surrounding Nablus and its countryside, as well as the villages of Ramallah near the settlements and at their northern entrance.

Confrontations also broke out in the neighborhoods of occupied Jerusalem, especially Abu Dis, Al-Issawiya, Jabal Al-Mukaber, the Old City, and Wadi Al-Joz, and were strongly present in Bethlehem and its camps and villages in the western region, such as Husan, Nahalin, and Al-Khader. In Hebron, Beit Ummar, Al-Aroub Camp, Bab Al-Zawiya, and Al-Fawwar Camp topped the scene of the confrontation as it expanded. To other regions. In conjunction with the confrontations, resistance groups in the northern West Bank and other areas in the center and south continued their shooting operations at a higher rate, and on the bypass roads, the rates of targeting settlers vehicles increased.

Despite all these activities, the entry of the West Bank into the battle does not seem to have achieved what was desired for the resistance in Gaza, although the pace of confrontations and shootings has increased, but analysts and observers point to the absence of specific operations in the manner in which they were carried out during the months preceding the battle. All of the above indicates one of the characteristics of the stage that the West Bank is going through, which is the rise and fall of resistance work following the absence of the organizational body that was known in the previous Palestinian struggle experience.

Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei accused the United States of being complicit in the crimes being committed in Gaza by Israel. The US is definitely the Zionist regimes accomplice in its crimes against Gaza. In fact, it is the US that is orchestrating the crimes being committed in Gaza, Khamenei said in a speech remarks from which were posted on his official account on the social media platform X. The blood of the oppressed children of Gaza is on the USs hands, he added. Khamenei contended that the reason for Western leaders visits to Israel following the October 7 attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas was because they see that the Zionist regime is falling apart.... The Zionist regime has suffered a decisive blow. It has been wounded and is crippled. The West is struggling to keep it on its feet using weapons and bombs.

Pakistans Permanent Representative to the UN Munir Akram said that his country condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. However, under international law, the struggle against occupation, for self-determination, and national liberation is legitimate and cannot be equated with terrorism, he said, according to a transcript released by the Pakistani mission at the UN. "It is the suppression of this struggle, which is illegal," Akram said while referring to Israeli actions in Gaza. "Yet, a state, which is in forcible occupation of a foreign territory, cannot invoke the 'right to self-defence' against those whose territory it has illegally occupied," said the veteran Pakistani diplomat.

At a news conference in West Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Macron stressed Israel's right to defend itself. "The fight must be without mercy, but not without rules," Macron said, because democracies "respect the rules of war," an apparent reference to criticism of Israeli air strikes that have killed thousands of Palestinian civilians in the blockaded enclave.

French President Emmanuel Macron said he believed it would be an error for Israel if Israel launched a massive ground intervention in Gaza, even though Macron reaffirmed Israels right to defend itself. France recognizes Israels right to defend itself. Regarding a ground intervention, if is entirely targeted against terrorist groups, that is a choice that it has... Macron told reporters. "If it's a massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk, I think it's an error... for Israel too because it is unlikely to protect Israel in the long term, and because it is incompatible with... international humanitarian law and the rules of law," Macron said after meeting Egypt's Abdel Fattah el Sisi, who also urged Israel to avoid an invasion.

"The international law applies to everyone. France has always supported the universal values of humanism. All lives matter and there is no hierarchy. All victims deserve our compassion, our engagement in a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East," he said. He was responding to claims by Arab leaders who have accused Western nations of overlooking harm to Palestinians.

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that "specific pauses" are needed in Israel's war on Gaza to allow aid into the clave, but again stopped short of calling for a ceasefire. Facing calls from some opposition lawmakers during weekly questions in parliament to urge Israel to hold a ceasefire, Sunak reiterated it "has the right to defend itself under international law". But the UK leader said London had consistently called for the conditions to allow aid to enter Gaza. "We recognise for all of that to happen there has to be a safer environment which of course necessitates specific pauses as distinct from a ceasefire," he told MPs.

Britain would discuss a humanitarian pause in the conflict in Gaza to facilitate aid shipments, but does not want a wholesale ceasefire as that would only benefit Hamas, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's spokesperson said. "Humanitarian pauses - which are temporary, which are limited in scope - can be an operational tool, and obviously that is something we could consider, and have been discussing," Sunak's spokesperson said.

Former head of British intelligence and former British ambassador to the United Nations, John Sawers, said that Israeli leaders must realize that the idea of invading the Gaza Strip and destroying Hamas may be far-fetched. He added in an article published by the British newspaper "Financial Times" that Hamas has a large political and popular base and broad external support from Iran, and therefore it is better for the long-term goal of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government to be to achieve stability in Gaza and prevent violence from turning into a regional conflict. According to Sawers, Hamas aimed through its brutal attack on Israel to instill fear in the hearts of Israelis, draw attention to its cause and provoke exaggerated reaction.

"Therefore, Netanyahu and his war government must review their options more carefully, because urban warfare is difficult and complex, which is what we witnessed in Aleppo and Mariupol, where the two cities were leveled to the ground to defeat the entrenched force." Sawers added that the process of purging the Iraqi city of Mosul from the control of ISIS, which was led by the United States of America, took 9 months and cost thousands of civilian deaths, pointing out that Israel does not have that time.

Sawers confirmed that one of the options that the Israelis are considering is to close the entire Gaza Strip with a double wall, consisting of a new barrier some distance inside Gaza territory, in addition to the current border wall, and closing all crossings into Israel. He continued, "But this solution leaves the question of who will manage Gaza and its citizens, as Israel has no desire to occupy it again, and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank cannot return to the Strip on the back of Israeli tanks, and Egypt refuses to absorb 2 million refugees." Sawers proposed forming an international administration for the Gaza Strip with a mandate from the UN Security Council, stressing that the United Nations had done so before in Namibia, Cambodia, Bosnia and East Timor.

Despite announcing its imminent launch, Israel has refrained from initiating a ground invasion of Gaza 18 days after the deadliest day in the countrys 75-year-history, a delay that experts attributed to a combination of international pressure, concerns over hostages, and time to train troops before they head to the besieged enclave. This delay came as Israel continues to reel from the deadliest attack ever launched by Hamas, and Gaza continues to be pounded by relentless retaliation bombardments. Israel has vowed to annihilate the Palestinian group, and the continuing conflict has claimed thousands of civilian lives on both sides.

Raphael Cohen, the director of the Strategy and Doctrine Program of RAND Project AIR FORCE, and a senior political scientist at the RAND Corporation, spoke to Al Arabiya English about the delay, saying there are several factors at stake. From the Israeli perspective, theyre concerned about escalation, he explained. Once they launch a full-on assault, Israel is committed to a ground war with Gaza.

A second factor is that Israel has taken groundbreaking action by activating 360,000 reservists and launching a ground offensive. This unprecedented move aims to dismantle Hamas military capabilities and end their control over the Gaza Strip. It is important to know that that mobilization has tripled the size of the Israeli Defense Forces, said Cohen. Now if youre going to do that, so you want to get them retrained. While these 360,000 reservists are trained, they still need to be equipped to deal with the expected forthcoming onslaught, said Cohen. It is easier, than say if this was a Western military because all those 360,000 folks have spent time on active duty. So they are coming in with a higher level of proficiency, but nonetheless, if your day job is working in an office in Tel Aviv, thats still a far cry from (operating in) tunnels underneath Gaza.

A third factor, said Cohen, is that reportedly the Biden administration in the US has asked Israel to hold off any ground offensive to allow more time for negotiatons to release civilians held hostage by Hamas. Hamas freed two women, including 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz, who said militants beat her as they took her into Gaza on October 7 but was then well-treated during her two-week captivity in the Palestinian enclave. Hamas had also freed American teen hostage Natalie Raanan and her mother after being abducted in Israel. Cohen said reports suggest that the US is pressing Israel to hold back as they buy time to secure the release of more held captive in Gaza.

The Israel-Hamas war was likely to run into weeks, even months. Cohen pointed to the 2014 Gaza War, also known as Operation Protective Edge  a military operation launched by Israel on July 8, 2014, in the Gaza Strip  which lasted more than 50 days. That operation, he pointed out, had the strategic intent of simply containing Hamas. This is a far cry of what Israel said it wants to do nine years on, he said, which is to destroy Hamas. This will be a long and costly war, he warned.

Patrick Bettane, an intelligence expert affiliated with the International Institute for Counter-Terrorism (ICT) in Israel, also said there were factors at play regarding the potential launch of a ground offensive, pointing out that the situation is further complicated by the presence of hostages in the Gaza Strip. Israel is waiting to see how this problem can be resolved before it acts.

There is growing pressure emanating from within Israel as well, with the families of hostages urging that the safe return of their loved ones becomes a top priority. Outside the Israeli militarys headquarters in Tel Aviv, some relatives of the captives have coordinated sit-ins, appealing to their armed forces for negotiation.

Israel has imposed a full siege on Gaza for the past two weeks, cutting off food supplies, water, electricity and fuel. Humanitarian organizations have criticized the move as a form of collective punishment that may amount to war crimes under international law. The Wall Street Journal reported that Israel decided to postpone the ground operation so that the United States can transfer additional missile defense systems to the Middle East. Washington expects a significant increase in the intensity of shelling of American military bases in Iraq and Syria after the IDF enters Gaza.

Biden stated that he did not make a demand to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to delay the ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, but suggested that they should take any opportunity to secure the release of hostages first. "No. What I have indicated to him is that if that's possible to get these folks out safely, that's what he should do, but I did not demand it. I pointed it out to him," Biden said during a press conference when asked whether he demanded that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delay the planned ground invasion of Gaza.

A recent poll conducted by Harvard University in cooperation with Harris, yielded results that- varied sharply between different age groups, and showed that Americans support Israel by an overwhelming majority (84%), compared to only 16% who prefer the Palestinian resistance movement (Hamas). This overwhelming support for Israel is evident among older Americans over the age of 65, as 95% of them said they support Israel, while only 5% expressed sympathy for Hamas.

Things seemed different when it came to the segment of young people between the ages of 18 and 24, as 52% of them said that they support Israel, while 48% declared their support for the Hamas movement, meaning that almost half of the young people polled declared that they stand with the movement. Perhaps the most shocking result - in the opinion of the independent journalist - is that the Harvard-Harris poll revealed that 51% of young people between the ages of 18 and 24 said that Hamas violence against Israeli civilians was justified, while only 49% said They don't think so.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, said the Palestinian militant group Hamas was not a terrorist organisation but a liberation group fighting to protect Palestinian lands. "Hamas is not a terrorist organisation, it is a liberation group, 'mujahideen' waging a battle to protect its lands and people," he told lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, using an Arabic word denoting those who fight for their faith. Unlike many of its NATO allies and the European Union, Turkey does not consider Hamas a terrorist organisation and hosts members of the group on its territory. In 2018, Erdogan told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that Hamas is not a terrorist organization and Palestinians are not terrorists. It is a resistance movement that defends the Palestinian homeland against an occupying power. There is nothing to suggest that Erdogans views have changed.

A digital poster distributed by Hamas resources on social networks featured the inscription "Gaza" at the entrance, three Merkavas, one of which is under the American flag, and the inscription in three languages: "Labyrinth of the arrogant." Satan' s arrogance, on account of which he was dismissed from Allah' s mercy and grace, is related in the Qur' an as a lesson to mankind. This arrogance on the part of Satan is what caused his downfall - In Islam, arrogance is a great sin. The Quran forbids pride and Allah curses those who walk arrogantly on earth. The Prophet Muhammad said that no one will enter paradise if they have even a mote of pride in their heart. The most severe arrogance is being arrogant against Allah Almighty by rejecting submission.

The Quran says in Ayah Luqman 31:18, "And do not turn your nose up to people, nor walk pridefully upon the earth. Surely Allah does not like whoever is arrogant, boastful". The Prophet Muhammad said in a hadith, "Whenever you meet humble people from my Ummah you must meet them with humility and you must behave arrogantly with the arrogant people". Arrogance stems from a false sense of self-importance. It is a direct molestation with Allah's power and a sort of claim to be Allah.

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Operation Iron Swords - Day 20 - 26 October 2023

Palestinian armed group Hamas launched thousands of missiles at Israel and deployed its militants to infiltrate Jewish settlements near the countrys border with Gaza on 07 October 2023. The 1,200 Israelis killed on the first day would be the equivalent of 36,000 Americans killed in an attack, as a proportion to Israels population of 9.3 million people (compared to 332 million in the USA). Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated: Not since the Holocaust have so many Jews been killed in one day". PM Netanyahu stated "On October 7th, Hamas murdered 1,400 Israelis. Maybe more. This is in a country of fewer than 10 million people. This would be equivalent to over 50,000 Americans murdered in a single day. Thats twenty 9/11s. That is why October 7th is another day that will live in infamy."

The departure of Hamas militants from Gaza is actually (already) being discussed, similarly to departure of PLO from Beirut in 1983. The rumours that Hamas may be considering leaving Gaza for refuge in Lebanon, Turkey, or elsewhere represent a startling insight into the secret diplomacy that may [or may not] now be running.

Hamas sent a delegation to Moscow to engage in talks for the release of international hostages, including Russian citizens, Russian news agencies reported, citing the Foreign Ministry in Moscow. Senior Hamas member Abu Marzouk was among those attending the talks, Russian news service TASS reported. "Contacts were held with him in continuation of the Russian line on the immediate release of foreign hostages in the Gaza Strip. Issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were also discussed," TASS reported. Russia had repeatedly blamed the current crisis between Israel and Hamas on the failure of US diplomacy and has called for a ceasefire, along with the resumption of talks aimed at finding a peace settlement. Israel criticized the trip, calling on Russia to expel a visiting Hamas delegation, and adding that the invitation to Moscow was "deplorable."

Israel said it had dropped over 6,000 bombs on the Gaza Strip since Hamas's attack on October 7, nearly matching the number of bombs the US used in Afghanistan in one year. The IDF had, by its own admission, dropped 4,000 tons of high-explosive bombs on Gaza  a quarter of the explosive power of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The HAMAS had reportedlly fired about 7400 rockets at Israel. The group said it launched 5,000 rockets in the initial barrage. Israels military said 2,500 rockets were fired.

The unprecedented Israeli bombing raised the total toll to 7,028 martyrs, including 2,913 children, 1,709 women and girls, 397 elderly people and 18,484 injured, in addition to about 1,950 missing people, according to the latest data from the Ministry of Health in the besieged Gaza Strip. Nearly 1.4 million of the Gaza Strips population of 2.2 million people were displaced. More than 1,400 Israelis were killed as a result of resistance attacks, including 309 soldiers and officers, according to what was announced by the Israeli army, which also acknowledged the presence of at least 224 prisoners held by Palestinian factions.

The figures supplied by Gaza's Hamas-run Health Ministry have been disputed by Israel and cannot be independently verified. US President Joe Biden said he had "no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using" for the death toll in the Gaza Strip. At a White House press conference, Biden was asked whether the claimed death toll in the Gaza Strip meant that Israel's army was ignoring appeals to minimize civilian deaths. "What they say to me is I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed," Biden responded.

Abu Ubaida, spokesman for the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), said that about 50 prisoners held by it were killed as a result of the ongoing Israeli raids on the Gaza Strip since October 7. The spokesman did not provide any other details in this statement, which he delivered on the Al-Qassam Brigades Telegram account. Hamas indicated that among the hostages were high-ranking military personnel, and it wanted to exchange them for more than 6,000 Palestinian prisoners, including children and women, in Israeli prisons.

At the end of an extensive arrest operation to counter terrorism and the confiscation of weapons tonight, more than 60 wanted persons were arrested in Judea and Samaria, of which 46 were operatives in the terrorist organization Hamas. Since the beginning of the war, about 1000 wanted persons had been arrested.

An Israeli government spokesperson questioned the accuracy of the death toll provided by Palestinian authorities in the Gaza Strip and accused Hamas of inflating the numbers. In an exclusive interview with Al Arabiya, Ofir Gendelman, Arab media spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, advised Arab and Western media not to believe the numbers released by the militant group controlling the enclave. Where does this data come from? Its from the Ministry of Health ... which takes orders from Hamas Ministry of Information and the terrorist spokesperson belonging to Hamas, he told Al Arabiya. There are no independent data. When pressed on whether he thinks death tolls published by international organizations or the United Nations are accurate, he said all were subject to Hamas orders. They fear Hamas. In several cases, the teams are Palestinians belonging to Hamas.

He continued, How many terrorists have been killed? Did Hamas admit to any of its terrorists being killed? he asked. No, because it is trying to portray all fatalities as innocent civilians.

Marwan Bishara, Senior political analyst at Al Jazeera, noted the tension between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the other two leading generals in the war cabinet, Benny Gantz and Yoav Gallant, created confusion over the much-anticipated land invasion of the densely populated Palestinian enclave. They have long treated the veteran prime minister with suspicion and contempt, especially since Netanyahu allied his Likud party with the religious fanatics of the extreme right, and went on to rewrite the countrys fundamental laws, to suit his and his fanatical partners interests. But since they were stuck with him as prime minister, the generals had to settle with excluding his most fanatic ministers from the war cabinet. Gantz continues to hold a grudge against the prime minister since the 2020 elections, when the general foolishly broke away from his own grand coalition in order to join a Netanyahu-led coalition government, only to be betrayed by a more confident backstabbing prime minister. Likewise, Gallant continues to hold a grudge against Netanyahu, who fired him as defence minister in March 2023 for questioning the soundness of his fanatical legislative agenda and its implications for national security. Although Netanyahu reversed his decision under public pressure a few weeks later, the two men havent buried the hatchet. Bishara suggested Netanyahu and his fanatical allies, who deepened Israels occupation and inflamed the Palestinian anger, have raised the public expectation from the war, insisting on total annihilation of Hamas and its leadership. A report by the British Economist magazine stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his army commanders are harmfully divided over how to fight the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ). The magazine revealed that the leader of the ultra-Orthodox Jewish Shas party, Aryeh Deri, leaked information - at a meeting of his party members after his surprise visit last Tuesday to Israeli soldiers on the border with the Gaza Strip - that the army is not yet ready to fight there. The report stated that Adraee does not play an official role in the government, does not have any military experience, and that all of his qualifications are that he is an important political ally of Netanyahu. Netanyahu was under increasing pressure from his extreme right-wing base to demonstrate his willingness to eliminate the Hamas movement. The Prime Minister's agents kept informing journalists that the army was not fully prepared to begin the ground campaign, and that instead of endangering the lives of Israeli soldiers through a quick invasion, as Israeli generals suggest, more lethal air strikes were needed to destroy the movement's tunnel network. The Israeli security establishment would prefer to see the Palestinian Authority return and take control of the Strip. But one of the senior officials admits that there is no plan in this direction, pointing out that Netanyahu has isolated and neglected Gaza for more than a decade. Israel's Ministry of Defence said that a total of about 250,000 people voluntarily left their residences as part of an official evacuation program to escape fighting near Gaza and rocket attacks near the northern border with Lebanon. Authorities are working to more widely evacuate areas along the Gaza Strip and Lebanon border until the end of the year, the spokesperson confirmed. However, government approval for this is still pending. Israel has a total population of just under 10 million.

President Isaac Herzog gave an interview to French news channel BFMTV. He stressed Israels commitment to international humanitarian law. During his interview, the President said: "I heard the comments of the Secretary General of the United Nations Guterres. In a way he eluded as if the source of all this evil has to do with the conflict. I absolutely reject his words. Because there was a sort of implication or even consent for atrocities, for terror. The problem with the conflict is terror. The most inherent problem that derails the peace process between the Israelis and the Palestinians has to do with terror. We have been suffering endless terror - day in and day out. In my last year as President, I visited mourning families throughout the country. But now we have seen the most atrocious example of what terror is all about. Since World War Two, since the Holocaust, there hasn't been such a number of Jews killed in one day.

He stressed: There is a civilization out there, of ISIS, of Hamas, of Al Qaeda - and all of these organizations, the Houthis, all they want is basically to swarm, to conquer the Middle East, to get the Jews out, and next will be Europe, you have to study their philosophy. This coalition of evil starts from Iran. It has forks all over the Middle East. This is their life their lifelong vision, and they're using the most brutal means possible, atrocious means that we never believed we will see following the Holocaust, that we will see them in modern times.

He explained, First and foremost, we have to uproot the military capabilities of Hamas, and added, How does one make security? How does one protect the civilians living there? We didn't want to go to war. We do not want to be warmongers. We are simply protecting and defending our people. And on 7th October in the morning, there was a war waged at us, at Israel and its people, and we have to protect and defend ourselves, first and foremost, to take the capabilities of Hamas out of the homes of people in neighborhoods, underneath the ground and above ground with a huge amount of weapons, dangerous and lethal weapons, and make sure that people can go on with their lives. Perhaps it will also help the Palestinians in Gaza to take control of themselves and live in prosperity in the future.

One has to know the truth. There's no electricity in Gaza because of Hamas missiles, their missiles blow up the wires that carry the electricity. We are not interfering with the water in Gaza, and we only supply 7% of the water in Gaza. They are the ones who've ruined their own infrastructure. You see how tragic this all is? Your taxpayers - like the entire European nations - paid more and more money for infrastructure in Gaza to make the life of the citizens better. Israel in the last few years opened up its borders and enabled tens of thousands of Gazans to work in Israel. All that was shattered by a horrendous terrible attack on our people, killing them with the highest amount of casualties in our history, torturing people and butchering them, and celebrating their heads being chopped and, and children being abducted. This is the situation we're in. It's a call of duty for the international community to understand that we are fighting for good. We are fighting evil.

The President made clear, We care for our neighbors, we always did, we operate according to international humanitarian law, we've asked the civilians to move to a safe zone, a humanitarian zone, and the ones who are blocking them are Hamas. But one has to give us the answer. How exactly are we to defend ourselves? "

Former general and member of Israel's war cabinet, Benny Gantz, said a planned ground offensive on Gaza would be only one part of a much longer process that could continue for years. "The maneuver is only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will last for years," Gantz said. "The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force," he added. Gantz, who has been a long-time political rival of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said that Israel was "facing a challenge it has not experienced since its establishment." He said the emergency government's establishment of a war cabinet was "the right step."

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Galant said that his forces moved "within 24 hours to an increasing attack from the air, sea and land," noting that the Israeli army began a fire attack with unusual intensity 24 hours after the start of the war. In a press conferenceg, Gallant said that his forces are fully prepared, and that the ground military operation in Gaza will begin at the appropriate time when conditions are ready. He refused to answer a journalists question about the impact this would have on efforts to free prisoners held by the Hamas movement.

Galant added, "Our goals are accurate, and we carried out strikes against the infrastructure of the Hamas movement." There will be other stages that we will implement and win as we create the conditions for the battle to continue. In response to a question about the possibility of a confrontation with Iran, he said, We are waging a war on the southern front against Hamas, and we are prepared for any development in the north. Hezbollah is suffering many losses. But it is not in our interest to expand the war, stressing that Israel has no interest in a war with another opponent other than Hamas. Galant added, "We are going through difficult circumstances, and our war is to preserve the homeland, and we must win it."

IDF forces under the command of the Givati Brigade carried out a targeted raid using tanks in the territory of the northern Gaza Strip, as part of the preparation of the area for the next stages of combat. As part of the activity, the forces located and attacked many terrorists, destroyed terrorist infrastructure, anti-tank positions and carried out work to organize the area . The troops left the area at the end of the mission.

"During the night we carried out a targeted raid in the north of the Gaza Strip, led by the Givati Brigade and combining armored forces, infantry, engineering, and fire from the sea, from the air and from the ground", described the commander of the armor company of the Givati Brigade, Major Shaham, "we carried out Elimination of terrorist squads that we identified with our eyes, of terrorist infrastructures, anti-tank launchers and other infrastructures that we identified in the area." "In addition, we have organized the area for the future," he added, "We have been training and preparing during the last few weeks in a high-quality and extensive manner, and are working hard in order to succeed and win this mission. It is important for us to carry out the mission and we want to win it and protect the State of Israel."

IDF spokesman, Brigadier General Daniel Hagari reported : "The Givati ??Brigade and other forces from Division 162 carried out a planned and proactive raid tonight, it is part of our preparation for the next stages of combat. The mission lasted several hours, and the forces left at the end, there were no casualties to our forces. In the sector In the north, we eliminated 5 squads that tried to shoot. So far, the families of 309 IDF martyrs and 224 abductees have been notified, we will continue to update the families of the abductees and the missing with every detail of information we have."" Military and strategic expert, Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi, believed that the general features of the possible Israeli ground military operation have begun to become clear, in light of the systematic destruction of areas and towns in the Gaza Strip, and the measures taken by the Israeli occupation army during the past hours and days. It is expected that the main battle will be in the northern sector of Gaza, and there are measures at the political, military and procedural levels that support this expectation, according to Al-Duwairi.

He pointed out that the targeting of the northern areas and neighborhoods of the Gaza Strip , such as Al-Atatra, Beit Lahia, Beit Hanoun, Al-Zaytoun neighborhood, and other neighborhoods, shows the destruction of entire squares and targeting in the form of longitudinal or transverse lines, which suggests - according to the military analyst - that the possible military operation will take place in these areas.

Al-Duwairi explained - in the military analysis presented by Al-Jazeera - that the destruction targeting the northern areas of Gaza is in order to create corridors through which bulldozers - which usually advance in military operations of the Israeli army with tanks - can open roads and create corridors for the Israeli forces to carry out an internal maneuver. It carries out isolation and encirclement operations.

Concerning the focus of the Israeli raids on the eastern border fence of Gaza, such as the Shujaiya neighbourhood, Al-Duwairi said that the heavy bombing on the border strip in the almost populated agricultural areas was surprising, and if this bombing had continued - in which planes, artillery and launchers were used - it would have been an indication that the start of Ground operation is coming soon.

The areas that were completely wiped out as a result of the Israeli raids as part of the systematic destruction confirm - the military analyst adds - that there is a high probability that what is coming will be closer than previous expectations. However, he refused to confirm this matter with certainty, because the occupation may change its procedures, especially with The arrival of American advisors, one of whom specializes in urban warfare, according to the military spokesman.

IDF reported that Hamas continued to use the residents of the Gaza Strip as human shields, preventing their evacuation to southern Gaza. Over the past few days, residents in the northern Gaza Strip had been notified to evacuate to the south for their safety. Hamas was not allowing them to evacuate to the south. As seen in the past, they use a variety of methods including roadblocks.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian warned that the United States would not be spared the flames of war if the genocide in the Gaza Strip continued. Abdullahian said, in his speech before the United Nations General Assembly, I say frankly to the American politicians who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome the expansion of the scope of the war in the region. But if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire.

The Iranian Foreign Minister called on those who wish to prevent the war from expanding to pressure Israel to stop its war on Gaza, stressing that the Palestinian people have the right to resist occupation in accordance with international law, including armed struggle. Abdullahian denounced what he described as "war crimes and genocide" committed by the Israeli occupation in Gaza and the West Bank about 3 weeks ago. He said that the United States and European countries are watching and supporting the killing of 7,000 civilians in Gaza. The Iranian minister also condemned the American steps to support Israel, and said that Washington's direct participation in the war on Gaza is a clear violation of the United Nations Charter.

Regarding the issue of Israeli prisoners in Gaza, Abdullahian said that the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) informed Tehran of its readiness to release civilian detainees, and added that the world must take action to free 6,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons. He stressed that Iran "is ready to play its role in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey. Of course, the release of the 6,000 Palestinian prisoners is another necessity and responsibility for the international community."

Experts' opinions differed regarding what Iran could do if Israel started a large-scale ground war to eradicate the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), as some believed that Tehran will intervene directly in the war, while others rule out this hypothesis unless Iranian territory is directly struck. Despite increasing warnings of the possible expansion of the ongoing war between the occupation army and the Palestinian resistance factions, the facts on the ground do not provide data indicating any direct Iranian interference so far, according to what observers believe.

Although the Lebanese Hezbollah , an ally of Iran, began intermittent clashes with the occupation army on the Lebanese border, the military expert, Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi, said that the matter appears to be an implicit agreement that the two sides will not go beyond this area any further. During the analytical space presented by Al Jazeera, Gaza... Whats next?, Al-Duwairi said that the clashes between Israel and Hezbollah were still taking place within the framework of action and reaction, but they do not give any indication of moving towards an open battle.

While some talk about Iran entering into a direct war immediately after Israel begins its invasion of Gaza, Al-Duwairi said that this will not happen unless Iran is subjected to a direct strike, stressing that Hezbollah itself will not enter the war directly as some imagine. Not only that - Al-Duwairi added - Hezbollah will not enter the war immediately after the start of the next ground invasion of the Gaza Strip , but rather this will depend on the size, extent and repercussions of this intervention, he said.

In almost the same direction, Lebanese political analyst Amin Qammouriyeh spoke, saying that Hezbollah had rules for movement and that the rules of engagement between it and Israel still existed, although they have changed over the past two weeks. According to Gammouria, Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallahs failure to speak meant that there is a position for the party, which had not happened so far, adding, Despite Hezbollahs presence in the battle in one way or another, the decision to enter into a direct war has complex internal and regional calculations.

As for the researcher specializing in Iranian affairs, Dr. Fatima Al-Sammadi, she believed that looking at Irans position in the battle requires looking at the defensive mosaic it has created in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthis in Yemen. Therefore - Fatima Al-Sammadi added - it cannot be said that Hezbollah is the one who made the decision to enter into a direct war; Because the entry of any part of this Iranian defensive mosaic into a wide war will be viewed as Iranian entry.

Regarding the so-called unity of the arenas (against Israel), Al-Duwairi said that Hamas was now fighting alone directly against Israel, while the arenas of Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon have references in Iran, which did not want a direct war and also did not want the forces loyal to it to get involved so that the area does not expand the war.

On the other hand, Qamouria said that unity on the battlefield existed, but not in the way some wish or expect, expressing his conviction that all positions depend on the future of the battle, including official Arab positions. In this regard, Fatima Al-Sammadi believed that Hamas was allied with Iran, but it is not part of the Iranian defense mosaic, and there was an agreement that it is the one who makes the decision for war and that it will only fight for the sake of Palestine, but all of this does not mean abandoning it on the part of Tehran.

Dr. Fatima believed that Iran's red line is to preserve its political system and thus it avoids opening a wide war in the region that might lead to the collapse of the regime, but at the same time it cannot abandon Hamas because it considers the Palestinian issue part of its national interests. Therefore - the researcher said "Iran will not allow Hamas to be erased from the Palestinian equation because this means Tehran losing this important issue to it." She indicated that the last thing the late Revolutionary Guard Commander, Qassem Soleimani , worked on was a plan to activate the rough arms of the resistance axis in Palestine, adding that the plan is being worked on despite his departure.

But Al-Duwairi was certain that Iran will not intervene unless it is bombed directly. He said that the United States, during the era of George W. Bush during the war on Iraq, developed a plan of 7 scenarios for dealing with Tehran, the highest of which was its absolute occupation and the lowest of which was the destruction of its nuclear project. He added, "At the end of Barack Obama's era, a plan was drawn up of 4 scenarios that are still in place, starting with directing 2,000 air strikes, down to 500 strikes." Options for launching a single American strike or a strike with Israel's participation were also developed, according to Al-Duwairi.

Al-Duwairi concluded that the situation is now heading toward an American-Israeli strike, and therefore Iran will not intervene directly in the war, but will instruct its arms to intervene if it comes to eliminating Hamas. Al-Duwairi believed that Washington picked up on this position and therefore sent a general to frame the Israeli ground operation so that it would be strong and lead to a political solution similar to the Battle of Mosul.

On the contrary, Qamouria believed that Hezbollah's decision is not entirely dependent on Iran, especially when it comes to establishing the American presence in the region, as is happening currently, because it was based primarily on resisting this presence. The same thing - according to Qammouriyeh - applies to Iran because its interest, preserving the gains it has achieved over four decades, and its nuclear progress are all related to what is happening in Gaza, and it has allies in the arena whose ability to act cannot be underestimated if an open battle occurs.

European Union leaders at a summit called for "humanitarian corridors and pauses" in Gaza, to allow the safe and unhindered access of aid deliveries. The European Council released a statement following hours of negotiations at a summit of the bloc in Brussels. "The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs," the statement read. "The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations," added the declaration, issued at the summit in Brussels. Countries supporting appeals for ceasefire at a leaders' summit in Brussels included Spain, Ireland and Belgium. Others like Germany and Hungary emphasized Israel's right to self-defense.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke at an EU summit in Brussels on behalf of Israel and its actions in Gaza. "Israel is a democratic state with very humanitarian principles guiding it," Scholz. "Therefore, you can be sure that the Israeli army, in its actions, will also follow the rules that derive from international law. I have no doubt about that," he added. The German chancellor said it was very important to do everything possible so that hostages can be released, humanitarian aid can get into Gaza, and dual nationals and employees of international organizations could leave the territory.

A digital poster distributed by Hamas resources on social networks featured the inscription "Gaza" at the entrance, three Merkavas, one of which is under the American flag, and the inscription in three languages: "Labyrinth of the arrogant." Satan' s arrogance, on account of which he was dismissed from Allah' s mercy and grace, is related in the Qur' an as a lesson to mankind. This arrogance on the part of Satan is what caused his downfall - In Islam, arrogance is a great sin. The Quran forbids pride and Allah curses those who walk arrogantly on earth. The Prophet Muhammad said that no one will enter paradise if they have even a mote of pride in their heart. The most severe arrogance is being arrogant against Allah Almighty by rejecting submission.

The Quran says in Ayah Luqman 31:18, "And do not turn your nose up to people, nor walk pridefully upon the earth. Surely Allah does not like whoever is arrogant, boastful". The Prophet Muhammad said in a hadith, "Whenever you meet humble people from my Ummah you must meet them with humility and you must behave arrogantly with the arrogant people". Arrogance stems from a false sense of self-importance. It is a direct molestation with Allah's power and a sort of claim to be Allah.

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Russo-Ukraine War - 25 October 2023 - Day 609

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The UK Ministry of Defence reported that over the last week fighting has intensified around the banks of the lower reaches of the Dnipro River. Ukraine has given higher priority to operations in this sector, building up small bridgeheads on the east bank it has controlled since the summer.

Russia has likely been alert to the possibly of attacks across the river since it withdrew its forces from the western bank 12 months ago. The area is under the control of the newly established 18th Combined Arms Army, after some of the units previously in the area were diverted to the Orikhiv axis to the east.

As in most sectors, a decisive factor is almost certainly the combatants' ability to bring accurate, intense artillery fire to bear. Initial indication suggests that Russia has maintained a significant artillery capability within range of the river.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that on the night of October 25, Russian forces launched another air strike against Ukraine, using 11x Shahed-136/131 attack UAVs. Air defense shot down all the kamikaze drones. Unfortunately, debris of the destroyed UAVs injured civilians. 11x apartment buildings and 9x private houses, 2x educational institutions, 2x fire stations, 1x police station and other civilian infrastructure were damaged in the cities of Slavuta and Netishyn (Khmelnytskyi oblast),

The operational situation in east and south of Ukraine remains difficult.

During the day of October 25, there were 66x combat engagements. Russian forces launched a total of 47x air strikes and 25x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, guided aerial bomb strike on a residential area in the city of Beryslav (Kherson oblast) killed and wounded civilians. Private houses and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged.

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. More than 30x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Sen'kivka, Klyusy, Leonivka (Chernihiv oblast), Bachivs'k, Studenok, Starykove (Sumy oblast), Vovchans'k, Okhrimivka, Kruhle, Budarky (Kharkiv oblast).

Kup'yans'k axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful assault operations in the vicinities of Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka and Ivanivka (Kharkiv oblast). Ukrainian defenders repelled 11x Russian attacks in that area. The Russian occupiers also launched an air strike in the vicinity of Novoselivs'ke (Luhansk oblast). The invaders fired artillery and mortars at around 10x settlements, including Kindrashivka, Kyslivka, Krokhmal'ne, Pishchane, Berestove, Ivanivka (Kharkiv oblast).

Lyman axis: the Ukrainian defense forces repelled all Russian attacks in the vicinities of Nadiya and Makiivka (Luhansk oblast). The Russian occupiers launched air strikes in the area of Serebryans'ke forestry (Luhansk oblast), Hryhorivka and Verkhn'okam'yans'ke (Donetsk oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Makiivka, Nevs'ke, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast), Tors'ke, Spirne, Vyimka, Fedorivka, Rozdolivka (Donetsk oblast).

Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 7x Russian attacks in the vicinities of Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, Andriivka (Donetsk oblast). Russian forces launched an air strike in the vicinity of Khromove (Donetsk oblast). Around 20x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Min'kivka, Bohdanivka, Klishchiivka, Andriivka, Kurdyumivka, Druzhba (Donetsk oblast).

Avdiivka axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful assault operations with air support in the vicinities of Avdiivka, Stepove, Tonen'ke, Sjeverne (Donetsk oblast). The Ukrainian defenders repelled 12x Russian attacks in the area. Also, the occupiers launched an air strike near Novobakhmutivka (Donetsk oblast). The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Ocheretyne, Semenivka, Avdiivka, Sjeverne, Opytne (Donetsk oblast).

Mar'inka axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful assault operations with air support in the vicinities of Mar'inka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). The Ukrainian defense forces repelled 14x Russian attacks in the area. Around 10x settlements, including Hostre, Heorhiivka, Mar'inka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast), were under artillery and mortar fire of the Russian occupiers.

Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces conducted unsuccessful assault operations with air support in the vicinities of Vodyane, Novoukrainka, Staromaiors'ke (Donetsk oblast). Also, the Russian adversary launched an air strike near Volodyne (Donetsk oblast). Around 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Blahodatne, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast), came under artillery and mortar fire.

Zaporizhzhia axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 1x Russian attack near Verbove (Zaporizhzhia oblast). The invaders launched air strikes in the vicinities of Novodarivka and Novodanylivka (Zaporizhzhia oblast). More than 20x settlements, including Novodanylivka, Novoandriivka, Mali Shcherbaky, Stepove, P'yatykhatky (Zaporizhzhia oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

Kherson axis: the Russian occupiers launched air strikes with over 25x guided aerial bombs in the vicinities of Zmiivka, Beryslav, Odradokam'yanka, Mykolaivka, Ol'hivka (Kherson oblast). The settlements of Chervonyi Mayak, Antonivka (Kherson oblast) and the city of Kherson came under Russian artillery and mortar fire.

At the same time, the Ukrainian defense forces continue offensive operations in the Melitopol axis, offensive (assault) operations in the Bakhmut axis, inflicting losses in manpower and equipment on the Russian occupation forces, and exhausting Russian forces along the entire front line.

During the day of October 25, Ukrainian Air Force launched 7x air strikes on the concentrations of troops, weapons and military equipment of the Russian invaders.

The missile troops hit 3x ammunition depots, 6x artillery systems and 1x air defense radar station of the Russian occupiers.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kupyansk direction, units of the Zapad Group of Forces supported by aviation, artillery, and heavy flamethrower systems repelled 15 attacks of assault detachments of the AFU 14th, 32nd, 43rd, 54th, and 67th mechanised brigades, as well as 101st Territorial Defence Brigade near Timkovka, Sinkovka (Kharkov region), and Nadiya (Lugansk People's Republic).

Up to 145 Ukrainian troops, two infantry fighting vehicles, and two motor vehicles have been neutralised.

In the course of counterbattery warfare, the Russian troops wiped out one U.S.-made M777 artillery system, and two Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems.

In addition, ammunition depots of the AFU 1st Special Operations Brigade were destroyed close to Volchansk and Ogurtsovo (Kharkov region).

In Krasny Liman direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, helicopters and artillery repelled three attacks of assault detachments of the AFU 15th National Guard Regiment and 67th Mechanised Brigade close to Grigorovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic).

Strikes were delivered at manpower and hardware of the AFU 63rd Mechanised Brigade near Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

Up to 30 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, and three motor vehicles were eliminated.

In Donetsk direction, units the Yug Group of Forces supported by aviation and artillery repelled five attacks of assault detachments of the AFU 24th Mechanised Brigade and 77th Airmobile Brigade close to Kurdyumovka, Andreyevka, Kirovo, and Maloilyinovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The Russian units delivered strikes at AFU manpower and hardware close to Krasnoye, Andreyevka, Kleshcheyevka, and Bogdanovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy lost more than 500 Ukrainian troops killed and wounded, one tank, three armoured fighting vehicles, and two pick-up trucks.

In the course of counterbattery warfare, the Russian troops wiped out one U.S.-made M119 howitzer and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery system.

In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces, helicopters, and artillery inflicted losses on manpower clusters of the AFU 72nd Mechanised Brigade, 58th Motorised Brigade, and 128th Territorial Defence Brigade near Ugledar, Urozhaynoye, and Staromayorskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy lost up to 160 Ukrainian troops, one tank, and three pickup trucks.

In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Troops supported by aviation and artillery repelled five attacks of assault detachments of the AFU 82th Mechanised Brigade and 65th Airborne Brigade near Verbovoye and Rabotino (Zaporozhye region).

Up to 85 Ukrainian troops, four tanks, five armoured fighting vehicles, and two motor vehicles were neutralised.

Also, two U.S.-made M777 artillery systems, one D-20 howitzer, and one U.S.-made M119 howitzer were destroyed during counter-battery warfare.

In Kherson direction, strikes were delivered at located AFU manpower clusters near Aleshinskiy island and the small railway bridge over the Dnieper River.

The AFU losses amounted to more than 110 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, and one D-30 howitzer.

Operational-Tactical and Army aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have engaged AFU manpower and hardware in 105 areas during the day.

In addition, one command and observation post of the 15th Ukrainian National Guard Regiment was wiped out near Serebryanka (Donetsk People's Republic).

Russian air defence units intercepted two MiG-29 aircraft, one Su-25 ground-attack aircraft, and one L-39 combat training aircraft of Ukrainian Air Force close to Krasnoarmeysk (Donetsk People's Republic), Kazachyi Lageri (Kherson region), and Sinelnikovo (Dnepropetrovsk region).

Over the past 24 hours, two U.S.-made ATACMS operational-tactical missiles, one S-200 anti-aircraft missile converted to hit ground targets, as well as two HARM anti-radiation missiles and two U.S.-made HIMARS projectiles were intercepted.

In addition, 51 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were intercepted close to Zolotaryovka, Nyrkovo, Topolevka (Lugansk People's Republic), Novosyolkovka (Donetsk People's Republic), Ingenernoye, Mirnoye (Zaporozhye region), Peschanovka (Kherson region), Tavolzhanka, and Olshana (Kharkov region).

In total, 515 airplanes and 253 helicopters, 8,271 unmanned aerial vehicles, 441 air defence missile systems, 12,930 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,169 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 6,875 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 14,662 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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Refuelling aircraft and aviators

By Flying Officer Connor Bellhouse

25 October 2023

Members of 19 Squadron fuelled aircraft and aviators during Exercise Bersama Lima.

The commencement of Exercise Bersama Lima in early October included the arrival of six F/A-18F Super Hornets and four Eurofighter Typhoons, alongside 250 personnel into Royal Malaysian Air Force Base Butterworth.

Sergeant Drew Miller, 19 Squadron's defence fuel installation, said the opportunity for the team to be challenged with tight refuelling times and working across both Australian and UK aircraft was an important one.

"For a lot of the year, 19 Squadron is focused on maintaining the facilities here for these types of exercises or RAAF operations," Sergeant Miller said.

"It was great for the team to be able to demonstrate what we're capable of by successfully sustaining multiple fast-jet waves each day."

While 19 Squadron only maintains a small footprint of staff year round, its ability to surge, integrate additional personnel, and significantly increase its outputs is a key part of the squadron's capability.

"19 Squadron brought in an additional seven augmentees to support the refuelling effort for Bersama Lima," Sergeant Miller said.

"It was good to see the team come together and put what we practise for into play, in a high-tempo environment with a bit more pressure as well.

"The team here have really enjoyed the opportunity to work at this pace across the exercise."

The refuelling effort from 19 Squadron didn't end at the flightline, with chefs from Australia and the UK working together in the kitchen to deliver meals for more than 200 personnel.

Catering manager Flight Sergeant Chris Baincroft said catering staff more than doubled the number of meals provided by the mess, with the support of additional chefs from bases around Australia and the UK.

"They've all been working together really well. After the first couple of days to get settled, everything has been running smoothly," Flight Sergeant Baincroft said.

"The interactions at the servery were great. People enjoyed seeing a familiar uniform, having a quick chat or a laugh. It has been great to watch."

Exercise Bersama Lima ran for two weeks and involved more than 400 ADF personnel, F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft and C-27J Spartan military transport aircraft; Hobart-class guided missile destroyer HMAS Brisbane; and a company of infantry soldiers from the Australian Army.

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Historic first for Japan exercise

By Captain Peter Nugent

25 October 2023

Australia is the first country invited to participate alongside Japan and the United States for Exercise Yama Sakura.

More than 200 ADF personnel will participate in the large-scale combat operations planning exercise in Japan in December.

The exercise will involve personnel from Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division practising their planning skills and interoperability with the United States Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

Australia has enjoyed observer status for more than a decade at Exercise Yama Sakura, which means mountain cherry blossom in Japanese.

At the conclusion of last year's iteration, the Australian Army received an invitation to participate in this year's exercise, reinforcing Australia's special strategic partnership with Japan and strengthening Defence's alliance with the United States.

Commander of Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division Major General Scott Winter said the ADF's involvement in the exercise demonstrated Australia's commitment to an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

"Not only is it an honour for the division to be invited as a participant in Yama Sakura, it also provides the Australian Army with an opportunity to practise large-scale combat operations while learning from our Japanese and United States counterparts," Major General Winter said.

In early October, 37 Australian Army personnel took part in a week-long trilateral planning session at Camp Higashi Chitose for Yama Sakura, joining members of the Northern Army from the JGSDF and 11 Airborne Division from the United States Army.

Exercise Yama Sakura 85 is the largest iteration of the event ever staged and will involve around 230 members of the Australian Army, 1500 United States Army personnel and 4500 JGSDF personnel located across Japan and also Washington State in the United States.

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October 25, 2023

By Jim Garamone , DOD News

Karlin Says U.S. Can Support AUKUS Submarine Builds

The trilateral defense agreement among Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States is historic and is part of generational change that is occurring in the Indo-Pacific, said Mara Karlin who is performing the duties of the deputy undersecretary of defense for policy.

Karlin testified before the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces today.

She said the AUKUS agreement is a priority for the region as nations look to strengthen deterrence in the face of Chinese efforts to undermine the rules-based international order that has done so much for peace in the Indo-Pacific.

"What is so historic and so generational about this AUKUS effort, is that we are bringing together a very close ally from the Indo-Pacific, a very close ally from Europe, [and] we're making sure all three have the most capable on undersea capabilities and are going to be able to operate together to help ensure a secure and safe Indo-Pacific," she said.

China demonstrates often its desire to push the United States and other nations around in the region. Karlin noted the Chinese military often engages in unsafe and unprofessional air and sea intercepts of vessels and aircraft operating in international space. "That's really problematic," she said. "And knitting together these three countries to really show how much we care about security and stability in the region is crucial."

The AUKUS agreement centers on nuclear-powered submarines, but it also includes other transformational technologies. Implementing the agreement is tough. "It requires a whole lot of effort by the executive branch and a whole lot of support by the Congress, but we can do big and bold things," she said.

Karlin says the agreement is a direct outgrowth of the National Defense Strategy. AUKUS helps all nations build more robust defense industrial base "ecosystems." That alone contributes to the concept of integrated deterrence, she said.

Karlin also made the point that the U.S. submarine industrial base "can and will" support AUKUS.

This defense ecosystem includes the Department of Defense, the defense industrial base and the array of private sector and academic enterprises that spur innovation and support the systems on which the military depends.

"AUKUS provides an important means to build a more robust, resilient and dynamic defense industrial base that contributes to our nation's integrated deterrence," she said in written testimony to the subcommittee. "Directly supporting the National Defense Strategy, the AUKUS security partnership enshrines one of the key competitive advantages of the United States, the ability to build enduring partnerships. Deeper ties with the United Kingdom and Australia serve to expand collective defense production and bolster supply chain resilience, essential elements of integrated deterrence."

"AUKUS is a call to action to strengthen our trilateral defense ecosystem," she said. "What is needed now, more than ever before, is an approach that enhances our AUKUS partners' conventional military capabilities, enables a more integrated defense industrial base, increases information sharing and implements cooperative policies that reflect the concepts laid out in the National Security Strategy."

The United States, United Kingdom and Australia have committed to conduct naval nuclear propulsion cooperation, and Congress must approve legislation to transfer two Virginia-class submarines to the Royal Australian Navy.

The Optimal Pathway, announced in March, is a blueprint for how to achieve this effort. "Since the announcement, three Australian officers graduated from U.S. Nuclear Power School, [and] eight Australian sailors started nuclear-power training," Karlin said.

In addition, members of the newly formed Australian Submarine Agency have observed submarine maintenance operations at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, and trilateral working groups are actively collaborating on critical issues supporting industrial base readiness.

She said the USS North Carolina conducted the first Virginia-class submarine port visit to HMAS Stirling in Australia. "These milestones mark our commitment to this effort, but we know there is still much to be done and we look forward to collaborating with Congress to ensure we have the legislative authorities in place to execute this important work," she said.

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Biden not worried by Australia's ties to China

In Washington, Australia's prime minister also says he's confident Congress will pass bills needed for AUKUS pact.

By Alex Willemyns for RFA 2023.10.25 -- U.S. President Joe Biden met Wednesday with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House, telling reporters he was not worried about Canberra's apparently warming relations with China because the United States itself is seeking a thaw in ties.

Albanese is making his first official trip to Washington since being elected in May 2022, after being invited by Biden in May of this year after the U.S. president canceled a trip to Sydney to negotiate an increase in the debt ceiling with Republicans.

But the Australian leader made a surprise announcement just before boarding his plane to the United States over the weekend: From Nov. 4-7, Albanese told reporters at the airport, he will visit Shanghai and Beijing to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

At a press conference after their meeting Wednesday, Biden said he was not worried by Albanese's planned trip, estimating he had traveled more than 70,000 miles (about 112,000 km) in his own lifetime for meetings with Xi, starting with when they were both vice presidents.

"I have met with Xi Jinping more than any other world leader has," he said. "I've had over 68 hours of private meetings, just he and I, with simultaneous interpreters, starting back when I was vice president."

But he added some advice for the Australian prime minister in his dealings with the Chinese leader at the end of next week.

"'Trust, but verify' is the phrase," Biden said, using a Russian proverb made famous by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan.

'Cooperate where we can'

Administration officials had in the lead-up to Wednesday's meeting played down the importance of Albanese's last-minute announcement, painting his plans as the same as ongoing U.S. efforts at a thaw.

National security spokesman, John Kirby, on Tuesday, noted to reporters that Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting Washington this week ahead of an expected trip by Xi to San Francisco mid next month for a meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

"We fully support and understand that the prime minister wants to meet President Xi and travel to Beijing," he said, adding that four Biden administration officials recently made the trip. "Conversations with the Chinese and keeping lines of communication open is very important."

Albanese, for his part, told reporters at the White House that Australia accepted that the United States and China were vying for influence, but said that did not mean Australia could only speak with U.S. leaders.

"We have strategic competition in our region. That's a fact that we are living with," he said, explaining that his government's approach to Australia's relationship with China was "to cooperate where we can, disagree where we must, but engage in our national interest."

Albanese said it was in the interests of Australia, China and the world for the two countries "to have a relationship where there is dialogue."

But he reiterated that Australia stood with the United States against China's vast sovereign claims to Taiwan and the South China Sea.

"That is Australia's position," he said. "We cooperate very much with the United States on those matters, and on others, and I look forward to a constructive dialogue when I visit Shanghai and Beijing."

AUKUS

The two leaders also stressed that the AUKUS security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States was not meant to constrain China's rise. Biden said Xi had personally asked him, when the deal was announced last year, if that was the aim of the pact.

"I said 'No, we're not surrounding China, we're just making sure that the sea lanes remain open,'" he said. "That's what this is all about."

Albanese is himself scheduled to attend meetings on Capitol Hill on Thursday, as the Australian government tries to ensure legislative bills to enable the AUKUS pact passes Congress amid some criticism.

American lawmakers in both the House and in the Senate have openly opposed key parts of the AUKUS deal, including the sharing of sensitive U.S. defense technology and the sale of nuclear submarines to Canberra amid massive backlogs in shipbuilding yards.

Democrats, including the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Rep. Gregory Meeks of New York, say they are worried that removing limits on the sharing of defense technology with Australian companies could create a target for Chinese espionage.

For the most part, Republicans say Australia is already trusted to handle U.S. intelligence secrets under Five Eyes. But other Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about selling nuclear submarines abroad when the U.S. Navy itself is struggling to acquire enough.

Albanese said he was not worried about the bills being held up, explaining that he trusted Biden's assurances Congress would pass legislation he said was "also in the interest of the United States."

"I'm very confident in the discussions that I've had with Democrats and Republicans that there is very broad support for the AUKUS arrangements, and that there will be support for the legislation," he said. "I regard the United States as a very reliable partner."

"I believe it will get done," Biden added.

B-52s

Before meeting with Biden, Albanese on Monday hosted Microsoft President Brad Smith at the Australian Embassy in Washington, with Microsoft announcing it would invest AU$5 billion (about US$3 billion) in artificial intelligence and cloud computing technology in Australia.

Albanese and Biden also announced a deal to lay submarine cables to help keep Pacific nations connected to high-speed Internet, and a deal to help connect the Pacific to international banking infrastructure.

On Wednesday night, Biden is scheduled to host Albanese for a dinner at the White House. The new wave band the B-52s had been slated to perform, but were replaced with a military band at the last minute.

Jill Biden said on Tuesday that the B-52s, famous for their hit "Love Shack," would still attend the dinner as guests, but would not play their upbeat music given that "so many are facing sorrow and pain," an apparent reference to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Edited by Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on October 25, 2023

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

2023-10-25 18:37

CCTV: The International Symposium to Commemorate the 10th Anniversary of China's Principle of Amity, Sincerity, Mutual Benefit and Inclusiveness in Neighborhood Diplomacy was successfully held yesterday. Could you share more details?

Mao Ning: This is indeed a very important symposium. Over 200 participants attended the symposium both online and offline, including political figures from neighboring countries, heads of international and regional organizations, diplomatic envoys of neighboring countries to China and renowned experts and scholars from both home and abroad. They had extensive and in-depth exchange of views on the theme "Amity, Sincerity, Mutual Benefit and Inclusiveness: New Dimensions, New Development and New Vision".

President Xi Jinping delivered a written message, in which he took stock of the fruitful outcomes of China's practices in following the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness, explained the new dimensions and new development of the concept and blueprinted the new vision of China and its neighbors pursuing common development in the future.a

Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Wang Yi delivered a speech. On the principle of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness and jointly building an Asian home, Director Wang proposed that China should work with regional countries to make Asia an exemplar for Belt and Road cooperation, a pacesetter for implementing the Global Development Initiative, a pioneer for implementing the Global Security Initiative and a front runner for implementing the Global Civilization Initiative. Before the Symposium, Director Wang had a group meeting with foreign guests attending the event. Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Sun Weidong attended the closing ceremony and delivered a speech.

Experts and scholars from various countries had extensive, in-depth and warm discussions on good neighborliness, sincerity, mutual benefit, openness and inclusiveness, and put forward constructive advice and suggestions at the four sub-fora.

On the day of the Symposium, we also issued a document entitled "Outlook on China's Foreign Policy on Its Neighborhood in the New Era".

Helsingin Sanomat: According to the statement of the central police investigating force in Finland, the damage to a Baltic Sea gas pipeline was caused by a ship dragging a large anchor along the sea bed. The anchor has been found in the sea bed next to the pipeline. According to the police, Chinese ship NewNew Polar Bear is the main suspect. It was at the spot exactly at the time of the incident, and it has been later seen sailing apparently without one of its anchors. The ship did not respond when Finnish authorities tried to contact it at the Finnish economic waters. I have three questions. Number one, how do you comment the current results of the investigation? Number two, have Chinese officials been able to talk to the captain and other people on the board? What do they say about the incident? And number three, has the state of China any connection to the ship or the incident of broken gas pipeline?

Mao Ning: Let me take these three questions altogether. China always holds that the international community needs to strengthen cooperation to jointly safeguard the safety and security of transboundary infrastructure. This is very important. China maintains unimpeded communication with parties including Finland over this incident you mentioned. The incident is still under investigation. We hope relevant parties will follow the principles of being objective, fair, just and professional and find out what happened soon. China stands ready to provide necessary assistance in accordance with international law.

China Review News: It's reported that Australia returned precious cultural relics to China on October 25. The handover ceremony was held in the Chinese Embassy to Australia. Can you give us more details?a

Mao Ning: China and Australia signed the MOU on cultural relics protection in 2009. Since then, Australia returned one piece to China in 2015 and this time another four lost cultural relics as well as one ancient fossil. We appreciate Australia's effort. This marks another successful practice in cultural heritage protection and recovery and return of lost cultural relics cooperation between our two countries, and sets a fine example of China-Australia people-to-people exchanges.

China Daily: At its sixth Meeting, the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress recently voted to ratify the Protocol against the Illicit Manufacturing of and Trafficking in Firearms, Their Parts and Components and Ammunition (Firearms Protocol). Could you share with us the significance of the ratification and China's future plan?

Mao Ning: Gun proliferation seriously undermines people's lives and social stability of all countries and disrupts world peace and sustainable development, drawing widespread international attention. The Firearms Protocol, as the important consensus of the international community on jointly strengthening firearms control and regulation, is the only legally binding instrument to counter crimes such as illicit manufacturing of and trafficking in firearms at the global level.

As a major step to actively implement the Global Security Initiative and uphold international and regional peace and stability, China initiated the domestic legal procedure of approval of the Firearms Protocol last September. The decision of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress implicates that relevant legal procedures are almost concluded. China will deposit the ratification document to the UN Secretary General at an early date.

China has been universally recognized as one the safest countries with the lowest crime rate and the fewest gun and bomb attacks. China has stipulated strict laws and regulations to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit manufacturing of and trafficking in firearms, their parts and components and ammunition, which firmly defends national security, social stability and a tranquil life for the people.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a responsible member of the international community, China stands ready to take the ratification of the Firearms Protocol as an opportunity to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with all parties to make greater contribution to building a peace and safe world free from gun-violence.

CCTV: President Xi Jinping's keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation has attracted great attention. I noted that President Xi Jinping pointed out, let us "build an open, inclusive and interconnected worldafor common development, and jointly build a community with a shared future for mankind." How do you assess the role of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in building a community with a shared future for mankind?a

Mao Ning: President Xi Jinping pointed out in his keynote speech at the Forum that "humankind is aacommunity with a shared future; and win-win cooperation is the sureaway to success inalaunching majorainitiativesathat benefitaall." Guided by the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has become a long-term, transnational and systematic global project. At the same time, the successful BRI cooperation has constantly enriched the connotation of the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Belt and Road cooperation reflects the values of a community with a shared future for mankind. The BRI embodies the common values of mankind, is committed to the principles of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, and the concepts of open, green and clean cooperation, and aims at high standards, sustainability, and better lives. Geopolitical games are not a choice for us. We stand against unilateral sanctions and economic coercion, leading in the right direction of global governance.a

Belt and Road cooperation is an important platform for building a community with a shared future for mankind. Over the past decade, China has signed Belt and Road cooperation documents with more than 150 countries and over 30 international organizations, launched 20-plus multilateral cooperation platforms in professional domains. The expansion and advancement of Belt and Road cooperation will make the platform of the community with a shared future for mankind more diverse.a

Belt and Road cooperation will bring new opportunities for building a community with a shared future for mankind. The Belt and Road is an initiative that charts a new course for common progress of the humanity and will surely provide stronger boost and greater space for global modernization.

As the BRI enters a new stage of higher-quality and higher-level development, we believe it will definitely open up a new and more splendid chapter for building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Global Times: During the General Debate of the United Nations General Assembly this year, leaders of many African countries condemned Western countries for abusing sanctions and interfering in internal affairs of African countries. Today, October 25, is the Anti-Sanctions Day declared by the Southern African Development Community (SADC). African countries have called on the West to lift illegal sanctions on Zimbabwe as soon as possible. What's China's comment?

Mao Ning: The 39th SADC Summit held in 2019 named October 25 as the Anti-Sanctions Day and called on the US and some other Western countries and organizations to remove sanctions on Zimbabwe. Today, on the occasion of the fifth Anti-Sanctions Day, we noted that multiple African countries have once again strongly called for lifting the sanctions. China supports that.

The unlawful sanctions of the US and some Western countries on Zimbabwe, which have lasted for over two decades, have seriously violated the country's sovereignty, infringed upon the development right of the Zimbabwean people, and disrupted the international political and economic order and the global governance system.a

China, as always, firmly supports Zimbabwe in opposing external interference and keeping to its own development path. We once again urge the few countries and organizations to listen to the international call for justice, lift the unlawful sanctions on Zimbabwe as soon as possible, take responsible and concrete steps to help the country develop its economy and improve people's wellbeing, and play a constructive role in promoting world peace and development.

AFP: According to reports, Ikram Nurmehmet, a Uyghur film-maker, will appear on trial in Xinjiang today, and he is being held on unknown charges. Could the foreign ministry provide more details on his trial?

Mao Ning: I'm not aware of what you mentioned.

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Hong Kong to eradicate 'undercurrents' of dissent with new laws

Chief Executive John Lee's administration wants more security laws, which analysts say means more speech crimes.

By Gigi Lee and Jojo Man for RFA Cantonese, Chen Zifei for RFA Mandarin 2023.10.25 -- Hong Kong leader John Lee vowed on Wednesday to 'eradicate the causes' of dissent that he said still lingered in the city despite a 28-month-long crackdown on criticism of the authorities.

Speaking in his annual policy address, the second since he was "elected" unopposed under new election rules that allow only "patriots" to take public office, Lee said that while Hong Kong may appear peaceful and calm, "undercurrents" of opposition to the government remain.

Quoting the ruling Chinese Communist Party's top official in charge of Hong Kong, Lee said that "the root causes of chaos haven't yet been eliminated," warning that the authorities will remain on the lookout for "covert rebellions," following warnings from the city's security chief that works of art can be subversive.

"We must stay vigilant against the possible resurgence of street violence, be conscious of covert rebellions through 'soft resistance,' and watch out for those anti-government movements overseas looping back to Hong Kong," said Lee, who has likened overseas democracy activists to "rats crossing the street" and vowed to pursue them for the rest of their lives.

"We should pay particular attention to those anti-China and destabilizing activities camouflaged in the name of human rights, freedom [and] democracy," he warned, quoting Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office Chief Xia Baolong.

Forthcoming legislation

Lee said his administration is currently drafting new national security legislation to be passed in 2024, which officials have said will "close loopholes" in the 2020 National Security Law imposed on the city by Beijing.

His government will also step up a campaign to teach the public to "respect the regional flag and emblem," boost an ongoing program of "national security education" in schools from kindergarten upwards, and begin a citywide "patriotic education" campaign in schools - something that was put on hold following a mass protest movement in high schools against the idea in 2012.

Lee said the program would "help cultivate the spirit" of a letter to a Hong Kong middle school from Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, calling on them to learn more about Chinese history and boost their patriotic sense of belonging.

Hong Kong's school teachers will be sent on study tours to mainland China, while the education bureau will step up school inspections to ensure compliance with the patriotic program, Lee said.

Lee also called on the city's 7 million residents to cast their votes in District Council elections on Dec. 10, following calls for a boycott from overseas-based democracy activists, who said the new rules meant only pro-government candidates could run.

Expanding the definition of a crime

Australia-based former opposition lawmaker Ted Hui said the government wants to make its "national security" system all-pervasive.

"The forthcoming ... legislation is expected to be even more comprehensive than the current National Security Law," Hui said. "Certain provisions around incitement, espionage and the disclosure of state secrets that aren't in the National Security Law will be added, to expand the scope of what is considered a crime."

"It will also raise penalties, make the law more severe ... and give the government even more ways to suppress those fighting for democracy, turning Hong Kong from a police state into a national security state," he said.

Current affairs commentator Sang Pu agreed, noting that Lee's administration will also set up a number of "working groups" and offices to coordinate patriotic education, making the city's government even more like that of mainland China.

"He has created a lot of offices, all of which focus on patriotism and national security, putting out a huge amount of propaganda," Sang said, adding that China wants to see Hong Kong integrated into its "Belt and Road" sphere of influence alongside its Southeast Asian neighbors.

Belt and Road office

Lee on Wednesday announced special employment visas for nationals of Laos, Vietnam and Nepal to work in the city and boost bilateral cooperation, while allowing overseas students who graduate with a bachelor's degree or above to stay in the city to work.

A Talent Services Office will be set up to coordinate the plan, according to Lee's address, while a Belt and Road office will encourage businesses to integrate with China's overseas influence, supply chain and infrastructure program.

The government will also be reaching out to companies that have relocated in recent years to return to the city, offering fast-track multiple-entry visas to mainland China to foreign nationals working in Hong Kong, to encourage trade and economic links with mainland China, Lee said.

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 October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Analysts: Chinese Defense Minister's Removal Could Be Beginning of Trend

By William Yang October 25, 2023

The removal of Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu is a sign of growing turbulence in China's political system under the leadership of Xi Jinping, some analysts say. They also say his removal Tuesday and that of another top-level official in recent months just as Xi begins a norm-breaking third term in office may only be the beginning of an emerging trend.

"The Chinese Communist Party used to have some kind of check and balance in their system, [but since Xi began his third term,] no one can play that function and everything depends on Xi's own will," said Alfred Wu, an expert on Chinese politics at the National University of Singapore (in the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy).

Wu added that the lack of checks and balances in the Chinese political system may lead to a trend of abrupt removals of top-level officials. "This might be the pattern that would persist throughout Xi's third term and it might even get worse," he told VOA by phone.

Li disappeared from public view on August 29 after delivering a speech at the China-Africa Peace and Security Conference in Beijing. Some media reports suggest he may be under investigation for corruption related to the procurement and development of equipment.

It also follows the removal of Qin Gang as China's foreign minister in July. He too suddenly disappeared from public view prior to his ousting. On Tuesday, the standing committee of China's rubber-stamp parliament removed Qin from his only remaining government position as state councilor. In neither case did the Chinese government provide an official explanation for its action.

Some analysts see the lack of explanation for Qin and Li's removal as "highly unusual."

"Normally when these things happen, you know, there is usually a statement about corruption charges or some other criminal activity that leads to this kind of removal," Dennis Wilder, a senior fellow for the Initiative for U.S.-China Dialogue on Global Issues at Georgetown University, told VOA by phone.

While some media reports have suggested Li's removal is related to corruption, Wilder said the incident may also reflect Xi's displeasure toward the Chinese military. "There are other possibilities, one of which may be that if it's true a and the New York Times reported this a Xi Jinping was very upset with the balloon incident," he added.

Since authorities have yet to name Li's successor, his removal leaves China, which has the world's largest military, without a defense minister. Since the Chinese defense minister doesn't command and direct the military during combat, analysts say this this will have a limited effect on the combat readiness of China's People's Liberation Army.

"Chinese defense ministers are mainly in charge of military diplomacy, so Li's removal won't have much impact on the Chinese military," Lin Ying-yu, a China military expert at Tamkang University in Taiwan, told VOA by phone.

While the absence of a new defense minister may have minimal impact on the operation of the Chinese military, Rorry Daniels, managing director of Asia Society Policy Institute, or ASPI, says the successive removal of Li and Qin, who were both hand-picked by Xi, may remind other Chinese officials that no one is safe from being purged in the current political system.

"It's clear that there are some areas of real risk inside the Chinese system and I imagine this will lead to a sense that no one is sacred and everyone has a target on their back among other Chinese officials," Daniels told VOA in a phone interview.

She said the chilling effect extending from Li and Qin's removal might create obstacles for policymaking in China. "In this type of environment, it's very difficult to make any policy if officials are always looking behind their backs at what might be coming for them," she said.

Li's removal comes days before China hosts the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, a multilateral dialogue where defense officials from different countries meet and discuss joint military strategy. U.S. defense officials confirmed that a delegation from the Pentagon was invited and will attend the forum.

Wu in Singapore said that since the U.S. will likely not send a top-level delegation to attend the forum, he thinks the absence of a new Chinese defense minister won't have much impact on Beijing and Washington's bilateral military engagement during the conference.

"China and the U.S. would already have some workarounds to continue the military-related dialogue and engagement," he told VOA.

And since Li was sanctioned by the U.S. government, which hindered his engagement with his American counterpart Lloyd Austin during his time as the Chinese defense minister, Wilder from Georgetown University predicted that his removal might make military-to-military interaction between Beijing and Washington easier.

"I would expect that whomever Xi Jinping picks as the next defense minister will not have these kinds of sanctions on them," he told VOA, adding that this is a positive development from the U.S. perspective.

As the U.S. and China pave the way for a potential meeting between Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden at the APEC leaders' summit in San Francisco in November, Daniels from ASPI said Washington would hope that the meeting could generate some concrete outcomes for lower-level officials to follow up on.

"There's a range of options that could come out of the meeting [between Xi and Biden,] and whether or not it will be successful depends partially on the yardstick by which we are measuring success," she told VOA.

In her view, a successful outcome may be for both sides to have the room they need to create an agreement that is "durable" and able to be followed up on by officials and interested parties on both sides.

VOA Mandarin service reporter Adam Xu contributed to this report.

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California Governor Newsom, China's Xi Discuss Climate, Taiwan, Fentanyl

By VOA News October 25, 2023

California Governor Gavin Newsom met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday, raising hopes that China and the United States can find common ground ahead of an APEC summit in San Francisco next month.

Xi and U.S President Joe Biden are expected to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco, November 11-17. A meeting has not been confirmed although a planned visit by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to Washington on Thursday is also seen as paving the way for further high-level meetings between the United States and China.

Xi said in a statement to Newsom, according to CCTV, China's official broadcaster, "I hope your visit will enhance mutual understanding between the two sides and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the healthy and stable development of Sino-U.S. relations."

The 45-minute China-California surprise sit-down was closed to the press, but Newsom told reporters after the meeting that he spoke substantively on the issue of climate change with Xi.

"We're not going to move the needle on climate change unless the United States and China collaborate together," said Newsom, who was elected lieutenant governor of California in 2010. He was elected governor of California in 2018.

Newsom said there are "strategic red lines" in the relationship between the world's top two greenhouse gas emitters, but both sides are capable of managing them.

During their meeting, Xi told Newsom that there was "huge potential" for the two countries to cooperate on green development and addressing climate change, according to CCTV.

The two also discussed fentanyl, a deadly drug that in 2022 was related to more than 6,095 deaths in California.

"The president was rather explicit about the desire to be even more specific in terms of what is needed, in terms of calling out and identifying where these chemicals are going," Newsom added, according to Politico.

Newsom said he had specifically brought up the impact fentanyl has had in his hometown of San Francisco, where he was elected mayor in 2003, a post he held until he became lieutenant governor.

Of the city's 620 overdose deaths in 2022, 72% were attributed to fentanyl. Newsom called the fentanyl discussion "remarkably positive."

"We talked about precursor chemicals, we talked about the importance of the issue and how it's become a leading cause of death in the United States," Newsom said.

Newsom also said Xi spoke fondly of a 1985 trip to the U.S. when as secretary of the Zhengding County Committee of the Communist Party of China he visited the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco, a city with its own strong ties to China, according to Politico. Over a fifth of San Franciscans, about 180,000 people, had Chinese roots in 2021, according to the U.S. Census. The city's total population is slightly more than 815,000.

California's ties to China are deep, starting with the arrival of Chinese laborers during the Gold Rush in the mid-1800s. Today, 32% of Chinese immigrants to the U.S. reside in California.

China is California's largest trading partner, and the "Golden State" is the largest importer of Chinese goods in America, according to Newsom's office. California exports to China totaled $18.15 billion in 2022, a 9.12% increase from the year before, according to the California Chamber of Commerce.

Newsom is not the first California governor to visit China with an agenda that included climate change. His predecessors Jerry Brown and Arnold Schwarzenegger also traveled to China, where the state maintains a trade office.

Brown visited during both during his terms in office, in 1977 and 2013, pitching wine, produce and technology. Newsom has signed a memorandum of understanding with China's planning agency, the National Development and Reform Commission, on climate cooperation.

But Newsom's visit comes at a particularly fraught time in U.S.-China relations with tensions rising over the future of self-governing Taiwan, which Beijing considers its own territory, a persistent trade war and human rights.

When asked whether he discussed human rights issues with Xi, Newsom said he did not, but he did discuss human rights with Foreign Minister Wang in a separate meeting. And Newsom said he brought up the imprisonment of California resident David Lin, whom the United States government says is wrongfully imprisoned in China.

The weeklong visit, which began on Monday with stops in Hong Kong and Shenzhen before the meetings with senior officials in Beijing on Wednesday, got mixed reviews from Los Angeles residents interviewed by VOA Mandarin. Several suggested the trip was mostly about adding some international heft to the governor's resume.

Zac Gunnel, a game publisher, said, "I know he and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis are both traveling abroad because they see themselves as potential American candidates in 2028."

But Koke Wang, a fashion designer, admitted she didn't know much about Newsom's agenda in China, other than to say "Awesome. Climate change. Definitely."

Material from Reuters and the Associated Press is included in this report.

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Statement by NSC Spokesperson Adrienne Watson on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meeting with Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission and Foreign Minister Wang Yi

October 25, 2023

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will meet with Chinese Communist Party Politburo Member, Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on October 27. This meeting is consistent with commitments by both sides to maintain this strategic channel of communication as part of ongoing efforts to responsibly manage the relationship. It follows recent high-level diplomatic interactions between National Security Advisor Sullivan and Director Wang Yi in Malta in September and in Vienna in May.

###

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N Korean leader pushes for anti-US front expansion, courts China

The move comes as Washington grapples with challenges from Ukraine and the Middle East.

By Lee Jeong-Ho for RFA 2023.10.24 -- North Korea made further overtures to China, highlighting their mutual history of opposition to the United States. The move underscores its leader Kim Jong Un's strategic push to solidify his anti-American united front as Washington grapples with resource allocation in Asia amidst challenges from Ukraine and the Middle East.

"The bond forged in blood between the people of the two nations will forever endure," North Korea's official Rodong Sinmun said Wednesday, as it marked the 73rd anniversary of China's intervention in the Korean War.

The state publication labeled the Korean War an "invasion by the allied imperialist forces," lauding China by saying it had fought "side by side with our armies, sacrificing their blood and lives in the joint endeavor to defeat the common enemy." The paper also underscored the bilateral "anti-imperialist" alliance.

China intervened in the Korean War to aid North Korea on Oct. 25, 1950, four months after the North attacked the South in June. Beijing refers to the intervention as "anti-American aid," and likewise, Pyongyang views this day as a symbolic representation of its enduring friendship with China.

The message may hold significant weight, as Pyongyang often accentuates its longstanding bond with Beijing for strategic purposes, particularly when facing heightened geopolitical challenges. Historically, North Korea has displayed a tendency to reach out to China during times of international strain or in pursuit of diplomatic advantage, with the intent of amplifying its leverage on the global stage.

Over the past few weeks, North Korea's foreign policy has shown signs of a larger strategy at play. From supporting Hamas, which attacked U.S.-ally Israel, to bolstering ties with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, Pyongyang appears keen on crafting a united front against Washington.

Radio Free Asia, earlier this month, reported the possibility of Hamas militants using North Korean weapons, and South Korea's Joint Chief of Staff later confirmed the RFA reports with its intelligence assessing that the North appeared to have a military connection to Hamas.

Last week, a portrait of North Korean leader Kim appeared at an anti-U.S. protest in the West Bank, showing the close emotional connection of Palestine people against the U.S. and its allies standing with Israel. The Middle East conflict was a "tragedy created entirely by the United States," North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said Monday.

"Kim Jong Un seemingly perceives the emergence of a new Cold War could benefit his regime's stability." said Wang Son-taek, director of the Global Policy Center at the Han Pyeong Peace Institute. "At this juncture, circumstances appear conducive for the onset of such a geopolitical climate. Both North Korea and Russia are facing economic sanctions, and China is locked in a strategic rivalry with the U.S. These three nations alone could form a strong foundation for an anti-American alliance."

Pyongyang's primary objective is to establish and expand this alliance, Wang noted. Countries like Iran, Belarus, Syria, and Cuba could potentially join this coalition, and so could other BRICS nations under certain circumstances, he explained, referring to the bloc comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa and soon to include Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

"For Kim Jong Un, drawing these countries into the alliance could be a strategic advantage. He seems to be of the opinion that trading with these nations could be sufficient to ensure his regime's survival and maintain its stability."

Cheon Seong-whun, a former security strategy secretary for South Korea's presidential office, also said that Kim Jong Un was demonstrating swift adaptability in the face of the emergence of what appears to be a new Cold War dynamic.

"Amidst the standoff between the U.S. and China, Kim Jong Un's strategy leans towards a stronger alignment with China. Additionally, he is attempting to leverage the complexities in the Middle East and Europe to his benefit," said Cheon, noting that the anti-American united front means a "total collapse" of the sanction regimes against North Korea.

These endeavors are not merely isolated incidents. They echo a larger global trend wherein nations are establishing new alliances in response to Washington's Asia strategy. For instance, North Korea's leader Kim and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met at the symbol of Russian space prowess in Russia's Far East last month, and vowed to form an "anti-imperialist united front." Pyongyang has been calling the U.S. and its allies "imperialists."

The united front against the U.S. is already taking shape. RFA cited analysis by a private U.S. research organization the Institute for the Study of War as saying that the North could have already provided up to 500,000 pieces of ammunition to Russia, which could be used in its invasion against Ukraine.

That united front is showing signs of being multilateral with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov saying in Pyongyang last week that Moscow was seeking stronger cooperation with North Korea and China to counter the U.S. and its regional allies, as reported by Russian news organization Tass.

Tighter cooperation among the non-Western nations may amplify their leverage against the U.S. and its regional partners. The move may enhance their collective bargaining power and operational capabilities against the West, ultimately posing a challenge to Washington's Indo-Pacific strategy.

"The U.S.'s Indo-Pacific strategy is facing significant hurdles," Cheon said, noting that if it is properly implemented, not only the U.S., but also countries like Australia and Western Europe would concentrate on containing China, and consequently, North Korea would inevitably come under focus as well.

"Ultimately, North Korea would also face political, military, diplomatic and economic pressures. However, these pressures are currently dispersed due to conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, indicating a diminished cohesion," Cheon noted. "Moving towards a new Cold War framework ensures regime survival in the medium to long term. Just as the previous Cold War era ensured Kim Il Sung's regime stability, the new-Cold War context could secure the tenure of Kim Jong Un."

Han Pyeong Peace Institute's Wang also called for the U.S. and its allies to replace the Indo-Pacific strategy with a global initiative.

"Given the U.S.'s role as a global hegemon, its interests should naturally encompass the entire world. Constricting its focus in the Indo-Pacific theater seems like self-imposed limitations on its global leadership," Wang said. "A broader vision that resonates with the global community is essential."

He noted that adopting a more inclusive slogan such as 'new paradigm for peaceful coexistence' and pressuring powers like China and Russia within that framework may be an alternative option Washington could consider to make other nations more inclined to align with the U.S.

"A global strategy, rather than a purely national or regional one, should be the way forward."

Edited by Taejun Kang 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 October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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India Resumes Canadian Visa Services

By VOA News October 25, 2023

India has decided to resume visa services for Canadians after suspending them in September amid recent frosty diplomatic relations, India's High Commission in Ottawa announced Wednesday.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar earlier promised to reopen visa offerings if Canada addressed "security threats" that New Delhi claimed its diplomats were facing.

In Wednesday's press release, India's High Commission in Ottawa promised to allow Canadians to apply for entry, business, medical and conference visas "after a considered review of the security situation" found that Canada has made progress in improving "the security situation."

Ottawa has long affirmed its commitment to the safety of foreign diplomats. India did not identify specific threats to its ambassadors.

The development comes in the weekslong fallout of what Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called "credible allegations" of Indian involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, an Indian expatriate living in suburban Vancouver. India has denied any role in the killing.

Since Trudeau leveled that accusation, the two nations have ousted each other's top diplomats. In early October, India issued an advisory to its citizens, including students studying abroad, to exercise utmost caution when in Canada.

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U.S.-Based Rights Group Decries Iran's 'False' Claim Of Ties To Imprisoned Journalists

By RFE/RL's Radio Farda October 25, 2023

The U.S.-based rights group United For Iran has rejected allegations by Tehran that it has collaborated with detained Iranian journalists Elahah Mohammadi and Niloofar Hamedi, calling the accusations "part of the Islamic republic's long-standing tradition of crafting false narratives."

The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) on October 23 released a video titled Khabarchin (The Informant), alleging collaboration between the group and journalists Mohammadi, Hamedi, and Ghoncheh Ghavami, editor of the Harassment Watch website.

However, in response, United For Iran categorically denied the allegations, saying it has never had any professional or personal relationships with Mohammadi, Hamedi, or Ghavami.

"They have never worked for United For Iran and have not received any money from this organization," the group said in the statement.

"These claims are part of the Islamic republic's long-standing tradition of creating such false narratives in line with the judiciary's baseless cases against human rights defenders, activists, and journalists," it added.

United For Iran is a nonprofit organization registered in the United States that was founded and is managed by activists, dissidents, and former Iranian political prisoners. According to its website, the group aims to advance civil liberties and human rights in Iran by strengthening its civil society, supporting freedom movements, and leveraging advanced research and technology.

Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Court recently sentenced Mohammadi, a reporter for the Ham-Mihan newspaper, and Hamedi, a reporter for the Sharq newspaper, to 12 years and 13 years in prison, respectively, on charges including "collaborating with the hostile U.S. government," "conspiracy against national security," and "propaganda against the system."

United For Iran also noted that the Harassment Watch website, led by former political prisoner Ghavami, operates independently and has no ties to its projects.

Hamedi took a photo of Mahsa Amini's parents embracing in the Tehran hospital where their daughter was lying in a coma after she had been taken into police custody for an alleged head-scarf violation.

Hamedi's post of the photo on Twitter was the first media mention of the case and one of her last posts before being arrested days later.

Mohammadi covered Amini's funeral in her hometown of Saghez, which marked the beginning of the mass protests that swept the country following the 22-year-old's death.

Both have been held in Tehran's notorious Evin prison since September 2022.

"In reality, Niloofar Hamedi and Elahah Mohammadi are only being punished for covering the news of Mahsa Amini's murder by the Irshad Police and her funeral ceremony," the United For Iran statement said.

"Niloofar Hamedi and Elahah Mohammadi are in prison based on baseless accusations. The judiciary must cancel these baseless accusations against [them] and other political prisoners."

Written by Ardeshir Tayebi based on an original story in Persian by RFE/RL's Radio Farda

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-imprisoned- journalists-false-claims-united-for-iran/32653804.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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PM Netanyahu to Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer: "It's the worst atrocities committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. It's worse than ISIS."

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

25.10.2023

A Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today, at the Kirya in Tel Aviv, met with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer.

A Prime Minister Netanyahu at the start of the meeting:

A "I thank you, Chancellor, for coming here. You've expressed unqualified support for Israel. It's our darkest hour, and your support is important. Because this is a battle of civilization against barbarism, and Israel is fighting the battle for civilization, which I know you support. Thank you for coming here.

A Austrian Chancellor Nehammer:

A "Absolutely. That's the reason why I am here, also as my Prime Minister colleague from the Czech Republic, because we stand on the side of Israel. We have the same and share the same values. And the joint fight against terrorism is now more important than ever."

A Prime Minister Netanyahu:

A "This is barbarism. It's the worst atrocities committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. It's worse than ISIS."

A Austrian Chancellor Nehammer:

A "Yes. It's unbelievable. So we have to fight."

A Also participating in the meeting:

A For the Israeli side: The Strategic Affairs Minister, the Director of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, MK Boaz Bismuth, the Prime Minister's Military Secretary, the Prime Minister's Foreign Policy Adviser and the Israeli Ambassador to Austria.

A For the Austrian side: The Diplomatic Adviser, the Secretary for Foreign Affairs, National Council Member Martin Engleberg and the Austrian Ambassador to Israel.

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PM Netanyahu to Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer: "It's the worst atrocities committed against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. It's worse than ISIS."

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

25.10.2023

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, today, at the Kirya in Tel Aviv, met with Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Fiala.

A

Prime Minister Netanyahu at the start of the meeting:

"I'm very pleased to welcome you here. Czech Republic has been very, very strongly supportive of Israel throughout good times and dark times. This is our darkest hour and I appreciate the fact that you are standing here. Your support is invaluable and I welcome you to Israel.

I always say that standing with Israel, there's only one thing better than that and that is standing in Israel. And that's what you're doing. Thank you."

Czech Prime Minister Fiala:

" Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. I came here in this difficult time to express our clear support and solidarity with Israel.

We had a plan to meet in Prague at October the 8th, but one day before, Hamas and Palestinian terrorist organizations started a barbaric terror. October 7th was the most tragic day for Israel and Jewish people for decades. One Czech citizen was also a victim of this act of terror.

The pictures and videos which we have seen are shocking, really shocking. These acts of violence have no place in our world. I want to make it very clear: Czech Republic stands with Israel, now and ever. And like 75 years ago, you can count on our voice and support.

I'm glad that Czech companies immediately supplied basic military equipment to Israel, specifically it was 3,000 pieces of ballistic plates and we have option to send more.

Israel has an absolute right to defend itself. Terrorists still have more than 200 hostages. I feel deeply with all families. The international community must push for their unconditional release.

Tomorrow I am going to Brussels to a European Council meeting, and my goal is to ensure that the Council confirms the strong support for Israel and its right to defend itself. Hamas is our common enemy. We must ensure that it is isolated. And it is on EU terror list for years and now we must act.

So, dear Prime Minister, Israel can count on Czech Republic. We are with you as we always have been."

Also participating in the meeting:

For the Israeli side: The Strategic Affairs Minister, the Director of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, the Prime Minister's Military Secretary, the Prime Minister's Foreign Policy Adviser and the Israeli Ambassador to the Czech Republic.

For the Czech side: The National Security Adviser, the Head of Military Intelligence, the Director General of the Prime Minister's Office, the Head of Media Relations and the Czech Ambassador to Israel.

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Statement by PM Netanyahu

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

The 37th Government

25.10.2023

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, this evening:

"Citizens of Israel,

We are in the midst of a campaign for our existence. We have set two goals for this war: To eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governing abilities, and to do everything possible to bring our captives home. All Hamas terrorists are dead men walking - above ground, below ground, outside Gaza.

Together with Defense Minister Gallant, Minister Benny Gantz, the Security Cabinet, the IDF Chief-of-Staff and the heads of the security services, we are working around the clock to realize the goals of the war until victory. We are doing so without political considerations. We are concerned by one thing - saving the country, achieving victory.

We are raining down hellfire on Hamas. We have already eliminated thousands of terrorists - and this is only the beginning. At the same time, we are preparing for a ground incursion. I will not detail when, how or how many, or the overall considerations that we are taking into account, most of which are unknown to the public, and this is how it needs to be, in order to better safeguard the lives of our soldiers.

I would like to be clear. The timing of the IDF action will be determined unanimously by the War Cabinet, together with the IDF Chief-of-Staff. Together with the Security Cabinet, we are working to ensure the optimal conditions for our soldiers in the coming actions. When we go into Gaza, in the continuation of the fighting, we will exact the full price from the murderers, those who perpetrated Hamas-ISIS's horrors. I again call on the non-combatant population in Gaza - evacuate to the southern Gaza Strip.

Citizens of Israel, even amidst the storm of battle, we do not forget for a moment the immense pain of the loss of over 1,400 of our brothers and sisters, who were massacred in cold blood and who heroically fell in battle against the bloodthirsty monsters who have risen up to destroy us.

Cutting short their lives is like a hail of arrows at our heart. The soul of the nation is bleeding. The Government will determine national days of mourning for the terrible disaster.

Golani Brigade soldier Dvir Lisha, fell on Simchat Torah defending the communities in the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip. His mother, Nava Lisha, eulogized him as he was being laid to rest on Mt. Herzl and said: 'From the pain of this war, we will be reborn as a nation.' Nothing could be more correct.

I bow my head before all of the families that have been devastated. I know that their lives will never be the same. I send them a heartfelt, loving and consoling embrace from the entire nation.

The Government ministers are working to extend a helping hand to all those who need it. We have evacuated many thousands of civilians from confrontation line communities to hotels, guest houses and other places, fully financed by the state. The Government ministries are formulating plans for continued extensive assistance for all citizens of the state, just like we did during COVID. We will not leave anyone behind, and the Finance Minister will expand on this soon. From the ashes we will raise up the communities and the kibbutzim and we will rebuild the communities that were attacked.

Since the start of the war, we have established 600 new emergency squads, also with the weapons shipments we have brought in from overseas, and we will add more squads in this effort. We are encouraging civilians, and are helping civilians to arm themselves with personal weapons for defense. We are doing so in a controlled manner.

We are recruiting the support of world leaders for the continuation of the campaign. Today, many of them understand what we have been telling them since 2014: Hamas is ISIS and ISIS is Hamas. I tell them that our war against Hamas is also their war. Our war against Hamas is a test for all of humanity. It is a fight between the Iran-Hezbollah-Hamas axis of evil and the forces of freedom and progress. Light will defeat darkness.

Citizens of Israel, the 7th of October is a dark day in our history. We will fully clarify what happened on the southern border and in the area adjacent to the Gaza Strip. This failure will be investigated thoroughly. Everyone will need to provide answers, myself included, but all of this will happen only after the war.

As Prime Minister, I am responsible for ensuring the future of the country, and at present it is my responsibility to lead the State of Israel and the people to a crushing victory over our enemies. Now is the time to unite for one goal: To storm forward to victory.

With shared forces, with deep faith in the justice of our cause and in the eternity of Israel, we will realize the prophecy of Isaiah 60:18- " Violence shall no more be heard in your land, desolation nor destruction within your borders; but you shall call your walls Salvation, and your gates Praise.'

Together we will fight and together we will win."

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Hague-based UN court extends deadlines in Rohingya genocide case

The International Court of Justice says Myanmar's junta regime has until late 2024 for written brief.

By RFA Burmese 2023.10.25 -- The International Court of Justice has extended two deadlines for written arguments in a complaint brought by the West African nation of Gambia alleging that Myanmar's military carried out genocide against minority Rohingya Muslims.

The Muslim-majority nation - mainland Africa's smallest country - accused Myanmar of violating the 1948 Genocide Convention during a campaign of military-led violence in 2017 that led to thousands of Rohingya deaths.

The Hague-based court on Oct. 16 said that Gambia can wait until May 16, 2024, to submit pleadings in the case, while the junta regime has until Dec. 16, 2024, to submit its counter-argument.

The deadlines have already been extended several times by the court, which is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations.

"The Rohingya are frustrated that they have to wait for so long, year after year, to get a solution for the crimes committed by the Myanmar military," said Phil Robertson, the deputy Asia director for Human Rights Watch.

"I hope this is the last delay," he said. "The court needs to stop granting the Myanmar military every time it asks for extension of time."

Alleged atrocities

The military's alleged atrocities included indiscriminate killings, mass rape and village torchings as more than 740,000 fled across the border to Bangladesh.

The violence was committed during the tenure of the civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi, who in December 2019 defended the military against allegations of genocide at the ICJ.

The Nobel Peace Prize winner and one-time democracy icon now languishes in prison a toppled by the same military in a February 2021 coup d'etat.

In 2022, the National Unity Government, formed by former Myanmar lawmakers who operate as a shadow government in opposition to the military junta, said they accept the authority of the ICJ to decide if the campaign against Rohingya constituted a genocide, and would withdraw all preliminary objections in the case.

Later in 2022, the ICJ rejected all of the junta's objections to the case, clearing the way to consider the factual evidence against Myanmar, a process that could take years.

Ro Anamul Hasan, a Rohingya teacher living in one of the Bangladesh refugee camps, believes the junta is delaying the ICJ trial while it moves forward on a plan to repatriate some Rohingya under a small pilot project.

"The junta is buying time for pilot repatriation," she told Radio Free Asia. "They think that if pilot repatriation happens, the seriousness of the crime in the ICJ case will be reduced."

Seven years of waiting

Another Rohingya woman told RFA that the delays in the case are frustrating.

"It has been seven years of relying on them and waiting for a solution," she said. "Life in the refugee camp where we live is getting worse day-by-day."

NUG spokesman Nay Phone Latt told RFA on Tuesday that the "the longer the delay in getting justice, the bolder the perpetrators become."

RFA's calls to junta spokesman Major Gen. Zaw Min Tun for comment on the extensions went unanswered.

The Rohingya, whose ethnicity is not recognized by the junta regime, have faced decades of discrimination in Myanmar and are effectively stateless. Myanmar administrations have refused to call them "Rohingya" and instead use the term "Bengali."

Myanmar faces other lawsuits, including one filed in 2019 in Argentina under the principle of "universal jurisdiction," and an authorization by the International Criminal Court to investigate crimes against humanity over the alleged forced deportation of the Rohingya.

Gambia's complaint, also brought in 2019, was filed on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

The ICJ was established in 1945 to settle disputes in accordance with international law through binding judgments with no right of appeal.

Translated by Htin Aung Kyaw. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.

Copyright 1998-2023, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Myanmar victims file war crimes complaint in Philippines court

Lawyers and advocates are relying on the principle of 'universal jurisdiction' to have the case heard.

By Jason Gutierrez and Jojo RiAoza for BenarNews 2023.10.25 -- Five Myanmar nationals on Wednesday asked the Philippines' Department of Justice to open a war crimes investigation into 10 members of the Burmese junta for a range of alleged atrocities, including the killing of civilians, mutilation of bodies and torching hundreds of homes and churches.

Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the junta chief whose forces ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government in a February 2021 coup, was named among the 10 targeted in the criminal complaint.

It comes two years after a mass arson attack by junta forces on the town of Thantlang, which was part of an offensive in Chin state in northwestern Myanmar that saw some 2,000 homes destroyed, at least 250 people killed and 60,000 driven into India, according to the plaintiffs and rights groups.

The alleged crimes committed in the region were "part of Myanmar's forgotten war against the Chin," said one of the complainants, Salai Za Uk Ling, who is also the deputy executive director of the Chin Human Rights Organization.

"We are a Christian people whose pastors are being murdered and whose churches and faith-based schools are being destroyed in a systematic campaign by junta forces," Salai, who lives in exile in India, told a news conference in Manila.

"With this persecution of Myanmar's Christians continuing, we pray that our brothers and sisters in the Philippines will hear our cry and grant us justice."

Thantlang residents were quick to oppose the military coup, which toppled an elected government, and by September of that year had formed several anti-junta People's Defense Force groups. Their resistance put them firmly in the sights of Myanmar's feared military, known as the Tatmadaw.

Another claimant, Zing Ral Tu, described how her father Pul Ral Tu was shot and killed by junta troops in Thantlang in 2021 along with his friend, Pu Hram Cung.

The men, who were senior members of the local Baptist church, were transporting medicine for civilians fleeing the violence.

"We will never get justice through Burmese courts," the 47-year-old said on Wednesday through tears. "We pray the Filipino people will hear our cry for help."

Landmark case

But whether the claimants will find justice in the Philippines is far from certain.

Lawyers are relying on the principle of "universal jurisdiction," a concept in international law which recognizes that some crimes are so serious that they transcend borders and national courts can prosecute perpetrators. There is no precedent for such a case in the Philippines.

The claimants' Filipino lawyers, Romel Bagares and Gilbert Andres, argue that the landmark Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law obligates Manila to prosecute "war crimes" committed anywhere in the world.

"The law builds on a long humanitarian legal tradition in the Philippines," said Andres in a statement. "It doesn't matter that the crimes were committed by non-Filipinos against non-Filipinos outside Philippine territory."

Prosecution in the Philippines would send a "strong statement" to the international community, he separately told RFA-affiliated news organization BenarNews. However, he acknowledged the country's notoriously backlogged justice system would be an obstacle.

"We can only hope and pray," he said. "It is only up to the discretion of the DOJ. We hope that the prosecutors here are really up to the challenge."

Speaking to RFA Burmese, Andres noted that this is the first time that universal jurisdiction had been invoked through the Filipino penal code, calling it a "history-making filing."

"I think the filing in itself will be a form of victims' rights, access to justice," he said. "The mere filing in itself [makes] a strong statement both for the Philippines and also for the Myanmar military junta, because, in fact, the Philippines has been declaring before the United Nations that we have universal jurisdiction and we have jurisprudence that says that there's no jurisdiction for war crimes."

Fellow lawyer Bagares said there was already a plethora of evidence gathered by the U.N.'s Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar concerning the alleged crimes in Chin state, as well as by rights advocacy groups.

"We have also petitioned ASEAN to promote regional justice mechanisms and this case in the Philippines sends a powerful signal to our regional partners," he said in a statement, referring to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

The Philippines is already struggling with its own allegations of human rights abuses after the blood-soaked presidency of Rodrigo Duterte from 2016-22.

His brutal war on suspected drug addicts and dealers left 8,000 dead. He now faces at least two cases before the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity, though he is not facing prosecution at home.

Duterte's successor, Ferdinand Marcos Jr., meanwhile said at an ASEAN summit in September that the solution to the Myanmar crisis should be Myanmar-led.

Chris Gunness, the director of the Myanmar Accountability Project, which is supporting the case, said Philippine law "allows" the case to be heard in the country's courts.

"If your house has been burned down, if your town has been destroyed, if 60,000 of your own people have been driven to another country a how desperate can you be?" Gunness told reporters.

He said this was an opportunity for Manila to show the world an image "rooted in the rule of law, in decency, democracy and Christian values," rather than one where daily murders occurred under Duterte."

BenarNews is an RFA-affiliated online news organization.

This story has been updated to include additional comments by the claimants' lawyer, Gilbert Andres.

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 October not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use.

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Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova's answer to a media question about the latest anti-Russia statements by President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen

25 October 2023 15:39

2152-25-10-2023

Question: Would you comment on the statements made by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her October 19 address at the Hudson Institute, where she said that "Russia and Hamas are alike"?

Maria Zakharova: People have grown used to the EC president's ideologically motivated clichAs. She jumps at every opportunity to hype the anti-Russia agenda. Her statements are extreme examples of nationalism, xenophobia and provocations aimed at inciting interfaith and interethnic hatred.

The commission president made her latest anti-Russia statement in an address at the Hudson Institute during her visit to the United States. Seeking to vilify Russia, she hinted that there is a "Russian connection" to everything that happens around the world. She went as far as to link the developments in Ukraine to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

In reality, the only connection between these two events is the EU's policy of double standards. The EU has called for respecting international humanitarian law in Gaza. As for the Kiev regime, they gave it free rein to kill civilians in Donbass back in 2014. Ukrainian neo-Nazis are being trained, armed and set against the civilians who have made a legitimate historical choice in favour of reuniting with Russia. The EU continues to invest billions of euros to drag out the hostilities in flagrant violation of its own principles of peaceful coexistence, which form the basis of European integration.

Von der Leyen's latest statements are a classic example of the factual distortions which have become a trademark of Western politicians. We would like to point out that the United States and the EU shoulder a significant share of the responsibility for the current tragedy in the Middle East. Washington and Brussels have essentially blocked international efforts in Palestine, disabling the only recognised multilateral mechanism - the Middle East quartet of intermediaries - in the interests of their own geopolitical ambitions. The consistent policy of the US-EU tandem to prevent a comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian issue on the basis of international law is one of the main causes of the current large-scale escalation of the conflict.

The cynicism of the EU's current position is so flagrant and unacceptable that hundreds of EU officials have pointed this out in an open letter to Ursula von der Leyen. It is the latest example of the EU's inner degradation, a return to the dark periods when some European leaders did not think that every life is equally invaluable.

It is obvious that the attempts to link the Ukraine issue to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict are also aimed at justifying the EU's continued assistance to the corrupt Kiev authorities and prolonging the confrontation with Russia. Deliberately playing on the fears of Europeans, who are weary of their governments' reckless foreign policy schemes, is a favourite method of Western propaganda. The goal is to get them to shell out more money for the plans to militarise the EU economy, the main beneficiary of which will be US defence companies.

Such actions can only undermine the authority of the EU in the eyes of the global majority, because they are not based on an analysis of the international situation but rather are the product of domestic politics and a desire to toe the Washington line. Ultimately, the EU, which once claimed to be strategically autonomous, is losing its political identity.





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Statement by Andrey Belousov, Deputy Head of the Delegation of the Russian Federation, at the Thematic Debate on "Conventional Weapons" in the First Committee of the 78th Session of the UN General Assembly, New York, 23 October 2023

25 October 2023 13:54

2150-25-10-2023

Unofficial translation

Mr. Chair,

The Russian Federation consistently calls for further strengthening of the Inhumane Weapons Convention (CCW) regime through the universalization of the Convention and Protocols thereto, as well as bona fide implementation of their provisions. We welcome the outcomes of the CCW Sixth Review Conference and CCW Meeting of States Parties.

We appreciate the results of the work of the CCW Group of Governmental Experts (GGE) on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS) in 2023. The Group was able to adopt a report with meaningful conclusions and recommendations, thereby laying a foundation for further LAWS discussions within the Convention.

We view the GGE on LAWS as the only best possible platform for discussing issues related to the military use of artificial intelligence technologies. All key States involved in active research and development in this area take part in the work of the GGE. This forum effectively strikes a reasonable balance between humanitarian concerns and the legitimate defense interests of countries in relation to respective weapons systems. It seems necessary to continue work in this format on the basis of the current GGE discussion mandate, agreed agenda and consensus principle. Therefore, we believe it counterproductive to transfer the LAWS agenda to any other international platforms, including the UN.

The Russian Federation attaches great importance to these issues. The adoption of the Concept of the activities of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation in the development and use of weapons systems engaging artificial intelligence technologies on 26 July 2022 is a clear proof thereof. At the same time, we assume that the norms of international law, including international humanitarian law, are sufficient and fully applicable to these weapons systems.

Today we note the acuteness of such interdisciplinary and multidimensional problem as improvised explosive devices (IEDs). It is IEDs made from various types of ammunition that are the main cause of losses among military personnel and civilians, posing serious danger to civilians due to a number of circumstances. Their makeshift production significantly complicates IEDs detection and elimination, also making unpredictable their operation and consequences thereof. During the post-conflict period, IEDs may be triggered not only by humans directly, but also due to other natural and man-made reasons.

We proceed from the need for an expert discussion of these issues within the Amended Protocol II to the CCW. However, we would also like to warn the participating States against attempts at expanding the interpretation of the CCW mandate on improvised explosive devices. Any proposals of the future work on IEDs should, first of all, be consistent with the subject and purpose of the Convention. We support the idea of regularly updating the body of existing guidelines, "best practices" and other recommendations aimed at addressing the problem of diversion or illicit use of materials for IED production.

Mr. Chair,

In the context of compliance with the CCW, the criminal actions of the Kiev regime require condemnation and response from the international community. The number of daily violations by Ukrainian formations of the norms and principles of international humanitarian law (IHL), including the deployment of heavy weapons in residential areas, the use of civilians as human shields and the use of civilian infrastructure for military purposes, demonstrates the absolutely conscious use of inhumane tactics of combat in violation of IHL.

We have registered facts of targeted mining by Ukrainian armed formations of roadsides, country paths, bridges, dams, areas around residential houses, educational and medical establishments. Ukrainian security forces have literally sown fields with anti-tank and anti-personnel mines over several years, often in farmland and agricultural facilities. The most egregious example is the mining of a number of towns and cities in Donbas with PFMa1 "Lepestok" antiapersonnel mines. Moreover, this is being done using cluster munitions supplied by the USA.

All of the above is a direct violation of the basic provisions of IHL, including CCW Amended Protocol II. At the same time, Kiev is also in violation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and Their Destruction (the Ottawa Treaty), to which it has been a party since 2006. According to the UN, Kiev was to destroy about six million PFM-1 "Lepestok" and 700,000 anti-personnel mines (APMs) of other types as part of its obligations under the Ottawa Treaty. However, reality shows that this "destruction" was carried out only on paper. We call on the UN Member States to influence the Ukrainian authorities (including through the Ottawa Treaty) and to take effective measures to ensure that the Kiev regime complies with its international obligations and to prevent severe humanitarian consequences of its actions for the civilian population.

Mr. Chair,

As we attach great importance to the implementation of the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons, which remains, in fact, the only specialized global document on combating illicit trafficking in small arms and light weapons, we advocate increasing its practical impact and strengthening national controls over all stages of the life cycle of such weapons, from their production to disposal. We believe that the following measures are in demand: the introduction of a ban on the supply of all types of SALW to unauthorized structures of the recipient State; strict regulation of brokering activities; prevention of unauthorized re-export of weapons; and cessation of the production of weapons in a "pirate" manner, i.e. without licences or under expired licences.

Furthermore, we pay increased attention to the UN Register of Conventional Arms as one of the main mechanisms for transparency and ensuring international security by monitoring and identifying destabilising accumulations of weapons in certain regions of the world. At the same time, we are wary of attempts by a number of countries to expand the scope of the Register, taking into account the precedents that have already taken place when this mechanism has been used for purposes that are not inherent to its purpose, including in determining the parameters of the arms embargo imposed under the United Nations Security Council.

We continue to believe that it would be inappropriate to accede to the international Arms Trade Treaty or to participate in official events held under its auspices. In this case, we assume that the standards set by the Treaty are substantially lower than the Russian standards. In addition, the practical application of the Treaty also raises serious questions. It is absolutely unacceptable that its individual parties continue to supply military products directly or indirectly to zones of armed conflict.

Thank you.

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Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's greetings to organisers and guests of an official United Nations Day reception, Moscow, October 24, 2023

25 October 2023 09:02

2146-25-10-2023

I would like to cordially greet the organisers and guests of this official reception marking United Nations Day. This year's event marks the 75th anniversary of UN activities in this country.

Today, when the world is experiencing genuine tectonic shifts linked with the creation of a multipolar system, it is hard to overestimate the significance of the UN in promoting equitable interstate cooperation and searching for concerted answers to numerous challenges and threats. Owing to its universal legitimacy, the UN boasts unique capabilities for facilitating multilateral interaction in multiple spheres, including efforts to maintain international peace and security, protecting human rights and ensuring sustainable socio-economic development.

Consequently, genuine multilateralism is inseparably linked with the UN and the principles of the UN Charter. No organisations established on a limited scale outside the UN framework can claim the right to express the opinion of the entire international community.

As a UN co-founding state and as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Russia comprehends its special responsibility for the future destiny of this highly important international body. We will closely coordinate our actions with our supporters, and we will continue to enhance the effectiveness of the UN, including within the framework of the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations.

We are certainly ready to continue constructive dialogue with UN representatives in Russia.

I wish you pleasant conversations and all the best.

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Analysts: China's Foxconn Probe May Be Tied to Taiwan Elections

By Chuang Chih-wei October 25, 2023

Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te responded Tuesday to China's probe of the Taiwan-funded giant Foxconn over the weekend, saying Beijing should "cherish" Taiwanese companies and refrain from pressuring them during the run-up to January's election.

Chinese tax and natural resources authorities in multiple provinces searched Foxconn's facilities on Sunday, as first reported by China's state-owned Global Times.

The news came at a sensitive moment because Foxconn's founder, Terry Gou, is expected to qualify to run in Taiwan's January 2024 presidential elections as an independent candidate. Taiwan is a self-governing island that China claims as its own territory.

Foxconn, among the world's largest contract manufacturers, doesn't make anything under its own name. Apple is a key client of the company, which is registered as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. and employs hundreds of thousands of people in its operations throughout China.

Chinese authorities did not disclose the content or results of the inspections at Foxconn.

Many analysts see China's probe as an attempt to intervene in Taiwan's elections by forcing Gou out of the upcoming elections for fear that he will drain votes away from pro-Beijing candidates with a better chance of winning.

In the past, Gou has blamed hostility toward China by Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for the rising tensions between the two countries.

The Global Times quoted unnamed experts saying Gou's candidacy will benefit Lai, who is also running for president and is deemed a "secessionist" by Beijing.

The English-language report went on to cite experts, saying "that if the secessionists who seek 'Taiwan independence' win the elections, that would be a huge disaster to the peace and stability of the region."

Since the DPP's Tsai Ing-wen took office as the island nation's president in 2016, Beijing has taken increasingly aggressive actions, including sending fighter jets and aircraft carriers near the island.

Foxconn, which has its headquarters in Taiwan, issued a statement on Sunday saying complying with the law was one of its "basic principles." It promised to "actively cooperate with the relevant units on the related work and operations."

Gou, a billionaire, handed over the management rights at Foxconn four years ago. His presidential campaign spokesman, Huang Shih-hsiu, told VOA Mandarin, "The tax probe Foxconn faces in China has nothing to do with us."

Lai, speaking at a news conference in Taipei on Tuesday, responded to the Foxconn investigation by saying China should "cherish and treasure" Taiwanese companies that are helping it to develop economically.

"During an election, China does not need to put pressure on Taiwanese companies," said Lai, the frontrunner, adding that if Taiwanese companies lose confidence in China, they will move production elsewhere.

Gou officially announced his candidacy on August 28. The next day, Wang Zaixi, former deputy director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of China, publicly said Gou's candidacy would further divide the parties opposing the DPP, which could eventually "let Lai Ching-te take advantage."

Gou must gather close to 300,000 voter signatures by November 2 to qualify as an independent candidate, according to election regulations. The Central Election Commission will review the signatures and announce the results by Nov. 14.

Liang Shu-yuan, assistant research fellow with the Division of Chinese Politics, Military and Warfighting Concepts at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research in Taipei, believes that China has repeatedly made clear its dissatisfaction with Gou and is using the Foxconn investigations to "suppress" Gou.

Liang told VOA Mandarin, "Imposing punitive measures such as fines to collapse [Foxconn] is never a positive development for the Chinese government. If the probe has a limited economic impact, we can view it as sending a clear political message: They [China] don't want Terry Gou to keep running."

China has a history of attempting to influence Taiwan's politics by cracking down on Taiwanese businessmen.

In November 2021, Chinese authorities fined the Taiwan-funded Far East Group 474 million yuan, or $64.8 million, and reclaimed idle construction land in five provinces and cities, accusing the company of illegal and irregular behaviors.

Zhu Fenglian, then-spokesperson of the Taiwan Affairs Office, told reporters that Taiwanese businesspeople shouldn't donate to "Taiwan independence die-hards," indicating that Far East Group was punished for donating $2.09 million to the DPP in the 2020 regional elections.

Analysts say China's tactic may backfire when applied to Gou.

Titus Zhijie Chen, an associate professor of political science at Sun Yat-sen University in Taipei, believes that Taiwanese businesspeople must yield to Beijing due to their economic interests in China. But because Taiwanese voters lack that financial motive, they can't be coerced. Chen said that in previous elections Taiwanese voters used their votes to send China a message.

Other observers say the probe appears to be a warning from Beijing to Foxconn to dissuade it from leaving China.

On Sept. 17, V. Lee, who heads Foxconn's operations in India, said on Facebook that Foxconn planned to double its workforce and investment in India by next year, according to Reuters.

Foxconn, which has an iPhone factory in the state of Tamil Nadu that employs 40,000 people, will invest $600 million in two projects in the state of Karnataka for making casing components for iPhones and chip-making equipment.

Liang said that faced with post-pandemic economic weakness and high unemployment, the Chinese government understands that if Foxconn leaves China, other companies might not be able to employ such a vast workforce.

Adrianna Zhang contributed to this report.

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Continuing support for Ukraine

25 October 2023

A RAAF E-7A Wedgetail aircraft has deployed to Germany in support of multinational efforts helping to protect a vital gateway of international humanitarian and military assistance to Ukraine.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia remained steadfast in supporting Ukraine.

"I'm proud to confirm the E-7A Wedgetail has arrived in Germany to commence its important mission. Australia is honoured to provide this aircraft to help protect the vital lifeline of humanitarian aid and military assistance entering Ukraine,"Mr Albanese said.

The Wedgetail deployment delivers on the government's commitment made ahead of the Prime Minister's visit to the NATO Summit in Vilnius.

The aircraft has arrived at Ramstein Air Base to begin a six-month deployment under Operation Kudu. Up to 100 ADF personnel have deployed with the aircraft.

The aircraft will not be involved in the conflict in Ukraine, and will not operate inside Russian, Belarusian or Ukrainian airspace, and ADF personnel and assets will not enter Ukraine during the deployment.

In addition, the Australian Government will provide a further $20 million of military assistance to the Ukraine, with the support of local defence industry.

De-mining equipment, portable x-ray machines, a 3D metal printer, and counter drone systems are some of the Australian-developed equipment - made by DroneShield, Micro-X, Minelab and SPEE3D AA- that will contribute to Ukraine's defence.

Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said the local defence industry has many ground-breaking companies providing unique solutions.

"3D metal printers can be used to print spare parts, while de-mining and portable x-ray equipment can provide life-saving assistance for Ukrainian personnel on the battlefield," he said.

This support will take Australia's overall assistance to about $910 million, including the provision of Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles, heavy artillery, critical ammunition and contributions to the Ukraine Humanitarian Fund.

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Zelenskiy Claims Nuclear Plant Was Likely Target Of Russian Drone Attack In Western Ukraine

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service October 25, 2023

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy claimed that a Ukrainian nuclear power plant was the likely target of an overnight Russian drone attack in western Ukraine that wounded 20 people.

"It is most likely that the target for these drones was the Khmelnytskiy nuclear power station. The shock wave from the explosion shattered windows, including on the nuclear power station's premises," Zelenskiy said on October 25 in his nightly video address.

Zelenskiy added that every Russian strike "especially those daring enough to target nuclear power stations and other critical facilities, serves as an argument that pressure on the terrorist state is insufficient."

The Energy Ministry said earlier on Telegram that windows in administrative and laboratory buildings were damaged as a result of the explosion.

Power lines were also damaged, the ministry added, putting more than 1,800 customers in the towns of Netishyn and Slavuta at risk of power cuts. Both towns are just kilometers from the Khmelnytskiy nuclear power plant.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said its experts present at the plant said air-raid sirens went off at 1:26 a.m. local time and were followed later in the morning by the sound of two loud explosions. The IAEA experts were told that two drones had been shot down -- one about 5 kilometers from the plant and the other about 20 kilometers away.

"This incident again underlines the extremely precarious nuclear safety situation in Ukraine, which will continue as long as this tragic war goes on," IAEA Director-General Rafael Grossi said in a statement. "The fact that numerous windows at the site were destroyed shows just how close it was. Next time, we may not be so fortunate."

Grossi said the blasts did not affect the power plant's operations or its connection to the national electricity grid, but IAEA experts observed some of the shattered windows at the site. He also noted that the power outage in Slavuta forced two of the plant's 11 off-site radiation monitoring stations to temporarily rely on back-up power supplies.

In Slavuta, a building used by a fire and rescue unit and another by a police department were hit by the blast wave, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said on Telegram.

Local residents reported that several high-rise buildings had been damaged; in particular, people's windows have been broken, according to RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service.

The town's mayor, Vasiliy Sydor, said 20 people were hurt in Slavuta as a result of the attack.

Elsewhere, a local resident was killed in an early morning air attack on Ukraine's southern Kherson region, Governor Oleksandr Prokudin said on Telegram.

Kyiv drove Russian forces out of part of the Kherson region last November after several months of occupation, but Russian troops have continued shelling the regional capital and areas around it from across the Dnieper River.

Prokudin said that over the past 24 hours, Russian forces had carried out 35 aerial attacks on the Kherson region.

The Ukrainian military said on Facebook that Ukrainian air-defense systems had destroyed all 11 Russian drones launched at Ukraine overnight.

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said in a report dated October 24 that Russia appears to be relying more on cheaper and lighter domestically produced drones instead of Iranian-made Shahed drones.

In its daily update, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine said on October 25 that "80 combat clashes" had taken place over the past day.

It said Ukrainian forces had repelled more than 10 attacks in and around Avdiyivka, a town in Ukraine's eastern Donetsk region that has largely been turned to rubble due to Russian bombing.

Russian forces pounded Avdiyivka on October 24, but heavy losses forced them to switch to air attacks and rely less on full-on ground advances, Ukrainian officials said.

"The enemy dropped about 40 guided aerial bombs in two nights. But the number of ground assaults has been reduced, half of what it was yesterday and the day before," Oleksandr Shtupun, spokesperson for Ukraine's southern group of forces, told Ukrainian TV. "This is not surprising as over the past five days, the enemy has lost about 2,400 dead and wounded in the Donetsk region."

Most of those casualties, he said, were near Avdiyivka and the nearby long-contested town of Maryinka.

Vitaliy Barabash, head of Avdiyivka's military administration, said the town was enduring unrelenting artillery and air attacks.

"The enemy is persistently trying to surround the city and is throwing in new forces from the north and south," Barabash told Ukrainian TV late on October 24. "For two days, they have been operating mostly in small groups, trying to find cracks in our defense, but without success. The defense line is holding."

With reporting from Reuters

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-downed-russian- drone-attacks-civilian-killed/32653036.html

Copyright (c) 2023. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Russian Defence Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu inspects the advanced command post of Vostok Group of Forces in South Donetsk direction on a working visit to the special military operation zone

25.10.2023

Russian Defence Minister General of the Army Sergei Shoigu inspects the advanced command post of Vostok Group of Forces in South Donetsk direction on a working visit to the special military operation zone.

At the command post, the head of the Russian Defence Ministry received reports from the Group Commander and HQ officers on the current situation, the nature of the enemy's actions, and the fulfilment by the Russian troops of combat tasks in the main tactical areas.

Commander of the Vostok Group Lieutenant General Andrey Kuzmenko reported on the implementation of the Russian Defence Minister's instructions to create regular UAV units within subordinate troops, staff them with qualified specialists, and equip all units with unmanned aerial systems for strike and reconnaissance, including FPV drones.

In addition, the Group's Commander reported to the head of the military department on the specifics of the tactics used by the Group's assault detachments in cooperation with reconnaissance and fire systems in combat missions to seize AFU strongholds by assault groups.

During the meeting at the Group's command post, the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation received reports from the chiefs of arms and services on issues relating to the organisation of counter-battery warfare.

The Russian Minister of Defence heard separate reports from the heads of the relevant services on the readiness of the Group for winter operations, as well as the availability of heating stoves and methods for keeping military personnel warm.

Sergei Shoigu brought to the notice of the Commander and leaders the importance of promptly and adequately supplying all Group personnel with new winter clothes and creating an on-hand reserve of insulated footwear and winter uniforms.

n.

Department for Media Affairs and Information

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Andriy Sybiha discusses implementation of Ukrainian Peace Formula with delegation from Switzerland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs

President of Ukraine

25 October 2023 - 19:37

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Sybiha held a meeting with a delegation from the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland and ChargA d'Affaires a.i. of Switzerland in Ukraine Peter Hafner.

During the meeting, particular attention was given to the Ukrainian Peace Formula and the cooperation with Switzerland in its practical implementation.

Andriy Sybiha expressed gratitude to Switzerland for its support of Ukraine from the very beginning of the Russian invasion. He highly appreciated Swiss assistance in areas such as addressing the humanitarian consequences of the war, demining, and recovery.

The deputy head of the Office of the President of Ukraine spoke about Ukraine's expectations for the third meeting on the implementation of the Peace Formula at the level of national security and foreign policy advisors, scheduled to take place in Malta in the coming days.

Andriy Sybiha also discussed with the Swiss delegation ways to involve Switzerland's expertise and support in the work conducted at various levels within the framework of the Peace Formula implementation, including the activities of working groups at the ambassadorial level in Kyiv and preparations for the Global Peace Summit.

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Yulia Sokolovska spoke at the Human Capital UA forum about efforts to preserve, develop human capital in Ukraine

President of Ukraine

25 October 2023 - 18:45

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Yulia Sokolovska opened the first Human Capital UA forum and spoke about the priority directions for preserving and developing human capital in Ukraine.

For the first time, government officials, representatives of the business community, civil activists, and demographers gathered to discuss the development of human capital in Ukraine. Ministers, leaders of nongovernmental organizations, diplomats, and business leaders examined the most pressing issues related to human capital and its global development strategy.

The event was organized by the Centre for Economic Recovery, EasyBusiness non-profit organization, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine, with funding from the German government. UNDP supports strategic initiatives aimed at developing potential to promote comprehensive growth and sustainable human development.

During her speech, Yulia Sokolovska expressed gratitude for the leadership and coordination role of the UNDP team, which was one of the first to start assessing the damage inflicted on our country by Russian aggression, including in the field of human capital. Ms. Sokolovska said that a comprehensive assessment of the impact of the war on various areas, including the living conditions of citizens, education, healthcare, gender equality, and social integration, was conducted collaboratively.

The Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine also said that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy approved the Human Development Strategy in 2021. However, the full-scale war with Russia significantly deepened the problems in this sphere, as over 6 million Ukrainian citizens left the country, and more than 5 million obtained the status of internally displaced persons. People suffer injuries and wounds daily, with over 270,000 Ukrainians recognized as disabled due to the war within 1.5 years. Additionally, in the occupied territories, Russia abducts Ukrainian children, illegally deports them, and forcibly moves them to its territory.

Yulia Sokolovska spoke about the priority directions already supported in Ukraine for preserving and developing human capital. These include:

1. Physical and psychological recovery of individuals, facilitated by the introduction of a new rehabilitation system in line with global standards and the development of psychological support. In this direction, Yulia Sokolovska acknowledged the important role of First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska.

2. The development of the healthcare system, including providing equipment, technology, highly qualified professionals, and fostering partnerships to establish a network of capable hospitals.

3. Digitization and simplification of citizens' access to all social benefits and pensions.

4. Building a market for social services in which civil organizations, private and municipal enterprises could professionally provide services, freeing up family members' time for careers and professional development. This would promote gender equality in the professional sphere.

5. Creating new active employment and entrepreneurship programs, training and retraining, especially for women, veterans, and people with disabilities.

6. Transformative changes in education and innovation.

"All of these efforts give life to the Human Development Strategy and offer hope for the return, preservation, and development of Ukraine's human capital," Yulia Sokolovska said.

First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko, along with Minister of Social Policy Oksana Zholnovych and the Minister of Health Viktor Liashko also participated in the forum.

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Ukraine Says Deadly Russian Attack Hits Kherson

By VOA News October 25, 2023

Officials in Ukraine's Kherson region said Wednesday a Russian aerial attack destroyed a house in the city of Beryslav, killing one person.

Ukraine's air force said air defenses shot down 11 drones that Russia launched overnight.

In western Ukraine, officials said a Russian drone attack damaged buildings near a nuclear power plant.

Ukraine's energy ministry said on Telegram that the Russian attack happened near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant, damaging windows in nearby buildings and power lines in the area.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pledged Tuesday to reclaim areas of Ukraine currently occupied by Russian forces.

"Ukraine will reclaim its territory and its people," Zelenskyy said in his nightly address. "We will not leave anyone to the occupiers. We are using every means to ensure that this war ends with the defeat of the occupiers."

He also said that despite doubts from many in the world, "Ukraine has shown that it can prevail, despite all the challenges, especially in the Black Sea region."

In other news, Russia says it has successfully tested its ability to deal a large-scale nuclear response to an enemy nation, if provoked with a nuclear attack first.

"The tasks planned in the course of the training exercise were fully accomplished," a Kremlin announcement said of the ballistic missiles that were test-launched by land, sea and air.

The show of military strength comes hours after Moscow's upper parliament voted to repeal a 23-year-old treaty that banned nuclear testing. Russian President Vladimir Putin and his cabinet have repeatedly refused to discuss arms control with the U.S., citing hostile foreign policy.

Some information for this report came from Agence France-Presse and Reuters.

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Exclusive: $150 Million in Ukraine Military Aid Expected Wednesday

By Carla Babb October 25, 2023

The United States is providing up to $150 million in additional military aid for Ukraine in a package expected as soon as Wednesday, three U.S. military officials tell VOA, a week after Ukraine used its newest weapon from the United States to pummel Russian military targets deep into Russian-controlled eastern Ukraine.

The package includes more GMLRS rockets for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), munitions for the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS), TOW anti-tank missiles, AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles and 155 mm rounds, according to two of the officials who spoke to VOA on condition of anonymity to discuss the package prior to its announcement.

The availability of 155 mm rounds has raised concerns in recent days as U.S. partners Ukraine and Israel both need them to fight their wars, one against Russia's invasion, the other against Palestinian militant group Hamas, who killed hundreds of Israelis and kidnapped dozens more in a brazen terrorist attack on October 7.

Washington has said it is able to support Tel Aviv's and Kyiv's military needs.

The U.S. withdrew some 155 mm rounds from its war reserves stockpile in Israel to replenish U.S. stockpiles in Europe earlier this year, but after October 7, much of those rounds were redirected back to Israel to provide to the Israel Defense Forces, according to a senior defense official.

"Yes, 155 [mm rounds] is an area that both have in common. But broadly speaking, that's just one small area, and we don't assess right now that we're going to have any problems providing them with both," Pentagon press secretary Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder told reporters Monday.

Ukraine launched ATACMS at Russian forces last week after the United States secretly provided a small number of the long-range ballistic missiles to Ukraine in recent days. The ATACMS provided to Ukraine have a maximum range of about 170 kilometers (106 miles), nearly twice as far as the other HIMARS artillery rockets in Ukraine's arsenal and have allowed Ukraine to reach deeper into Russian-controlled territory.

Ukraine said last week that it destroyed at least nine Russian helicopters, an anti-aircraft launcher and an ammunitions depot in Berdiansk and Luhansk during attacks in which ATACMS are thought to have been used against Russian positions.

"Our agreements with President [Joe] Biden are being implemented, and they are being implemented very accurately. ATACMS have proven themselves," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said following the attacks.

The package expected Wednesday marks the 49th time that the U.S. has used the presidential drawdown authority to provide Ukraine's miliary with equipment from U.S. stockpiles.

The U.S. has provided about $44 billion in security assistance to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia's unprovoked invasion in February 2022.

The Pentagon still has about $5 billion of congressionally approved funding for Ukrainian military aid, after the Pentagon discovered in June that it had overestimated the value of weapons shipped to Ukraine by about $6 billion.

When calculating its aid package estimates, the Defense Department was counting the cost incurred to replace the weapons given to Ukraine, while it should have been totaling the cost of the systems actually sent, officials told VOA at the time the error was found.

The Pentagon continues to dip into its aid arsenal despite Congress excluding new aid for Ukraine in a stopgap spending bill passed last month to prevent a government shutdown.

Soon after the stopgap spending bill passed, the House ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his position as speaker.

The House has yet to vote in a new speaker, and new aid for Ukraine could hinge on who is selected.

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NEWARK, DEL, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The packer bottle market size is projected to surpass US$ 5.7 billion in 2023 and is likely to attain a valuation of US$ 10.2 billion by 2033. The packer bottle market share is expected to rise at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2023 to 2033.



Adopting edible and biodegradable materials in packer bottles displays an ongoing dedication to environmental preservation as sustainability becomes essential to corporate social responsibility. This environmentally responsible action lessens the brand's environmental impact and appeals to the expanding market of environmentally concerned consumers. This converts into a differentiator for the company that distinguishes it from competitors and could draw in a committed clientele that supports environmentally friendly business operations.

Packer bottles must have UV protection and filtering technology in sectors like skincare and cosmetics. It protects the stability and effectiveness of light-sensitive items throughout time, guaranteeing their integrity. This feature is an influential selling factor in the beauty and wellness industry, where product quality is crucial. Products with enhanced protection and lifespan can be priced more by brands, boosting their profit margins and building their image.

Request for a sample of this research report: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-3098

A noticeable trend towards incorporating cutting-edge anti-counterfeiting mechanisms inside packer bottle packaging has emerged in response to the growth of fake goods. These safety precautions, which increase product security and authenticity, include tamper-evident seals, distinctive QR codes, and holographic labels. This pattern is a reaction to the growing worries about customer trust, brand protection, and product safety.

Key Takeaways from Packer Bottle Market Report:

In 2018, the global market size stood at US$ 5.1 billion.

The market grew at a 1.9% CAGR from 2018 to 2022.

In 2022, the global market size stood at US$ 5.5 billion.

Tablets & capsules held 47.6% of shares in 2023.

Pharmaceuticals held 78.1% of market shares in 2023.

The packer bottle market size in Canada will develop at a 4.2% CAGR through 2033.

The packer bottle market in India will thrive at a 7.7% CAGR through 2033.

The packer bottle market in Thailand will flourish at a 6.6% CAGR through 2033.

Recent Developments Observed by FMI:

Proco Machinery, a producer of automation solutions for the bespoke bottling and packaging sector, introduced the new Proco Collaborative Robot Packer in March 2023. The automated system attempts to boost production while addressing the rising labor shortage.

MGS, a pioneer in packaging automation systems, unveiled its new Matrix TL top-loading case packer in May 2023.

ImpacX collaborated with Gatorade to offer Smart Gx Bottles in October 2022.



Note from the Analysts:

The packer bottle market intersects with innovation, personalization, and sustainability. It's a terrain that encourages flexibility and foresight. As the market evolves, those who embrace change, engage in research and development, and produce package solutions that suit the diversified expectations of an ecologically concerned and technologically smart world will be rewarded. The packer bottle industry has a plethora of options for both enterprises and investors, and the ability to capitalize on these chances will be the hallmark of success in this dynamic and ever-changing environment. Says Ismail Sutaria, Principal Consultant at Future Market Insights

The key Players Are:

Amcor Plc

Berry Global Group Inc.

Gerresheimer AG

Comar LLC

Graham Packaging Company

Maynard & Harris Plastics

Alpha Packaging Inc.

O-Berk Company LLC

CL Smith

Aaron Packaging

Clarke Container Inc.

United States Plastic Corporation

Purchase Now to Access Segment-specific Information and uncover Key Trends, Drivers, and Challenges: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/checkout/3098

Key Segmentations

By Material:

Plastic High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) Polycarbonate (PC) Others (PVC, PS, etc.)

Glass

By Capacity:

100cc & Below

200cc

300cc

400cc

By Application:

Tablets & Capsules

Powder & Granules

Liquid



By End Use:

Pharmaceuticals

Chemicals

Food & Beverages

Others

Author by:

Ismail Sutaria (Lead Consultant, Packaging and Materials) has over 8 years of experience in market research and consulting in the packaging & materials industry. Ismails strength lies in identifying key challenges faced by the client and offering logical and actionable insights to equip the clients with strategic decision-making power.

Ismail has been an instrumental part of several transformational consulting assignments. His key skills include competitive benchmarking, opportunity assessment, macroeconomic analysis, and business transformation advisory. Ismail is an MBA holder in Marketing and has a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics.

Ismail is a regular at industry conferences and expos and has been widely covered in electronic and print media. He is a Speaker at our upcoming Talk show - Rise of the Intelligent Packaging. Ismail has been quoted in leading publications, including the European Pharmaceutical Review and the European Adhesive Tape Association.

Explore Trending Reports of Packaging-

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
OTTAWA, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- An ad-hoc coalition of over 70 humanitarian, faith, labour, and civil society organizations will hold a media conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Thursday, October 26 at 11:00 a.m. EDT. The coalition will call on the Government of Canada to endorse two urgent demands:



Call for an immediate ceasefire of all hostilities in Israel-Palestine

Call for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for the restoration of humanitarian aid and access to the basic necessities of life

An unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe is underway in Gaza. Thousands have already been killed, while bombing continues to intensify. The coalition aims to bring to bear the full weight of the Canadian public on the federal government to demand an immediate ceasefire and prevent the further loss of life in Israel-Palestine.

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023

Time: 11:00 a.m. EDT

Location: Room 135-B, West Block, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON

Speakers:

Dania Majid : Arab Canadian Lawyers Association

: Arab Canadian Lawyers Association Corey Balsam : Independent Jewish Voices - Canada

: Independent Jewish Voices - Canada Celine Furi : Oxfam Quebec

: Oxfam Quebec Eric Hebert-Daly : United Church of Canada

: United Church of Canada Alex Silas: Public Service Alliance of Canada

For more information, please contact:

Ceasefire now coalition

coalition4ceasefirenow@gmail.com
Oakwood, GA, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wayne-Sanderson Farms today announced that an Illinois jury unanimously ruled in its favor in a trial against certain Plaintiffs which accused Sanderson Farms of participating in a supply reduction conspiracy with other producers in the broiler industry between 2008 and 2012. The evidence presented at trial proved, contrary to the Plaintiffs allegations, that no such conspiracy ever existed and Sanderson did not collude with its competitors to reduce the supply of chicken.

Jeremy Kilburn, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, commented:

We are pleased that, after a full and fair trial, the jury has rendered a unanimous verdict in favor of Sanderson Farms on all counts. The evidence presented over the last six weeks is clear: Sanderson Farms and the broiler industry did not conspire to produce less chicken. To the contrary, Sanderson Farms built more plants than the rest of the industry combined and grew more than any of its competitors before, during and after the period of Plaintiffs alleged supply reduction conspiracy. In a time of industry crisis, during which several major chicken producers went bankrupt, Sanderson Farms made independent business decisions to reduce its lossesas any rational business would. Todays verdict vindicates Sanderson Farms and shows that the Plaintiffs case ignored fundamental truths about Sanderson Farms and the nature of the chicken industry.

As an independent company, Sanderson Farms was steadfast in its position that its conduct had always been lawful. The combined team of Wayne-Sanderson Farms fully shares in that view. The evidence at trial proved that Sanderson Farms did not conspire with anyone to produce less chicken, and that Sanderson Farms, under its former leadership, acted lawfully. Wayne Farms past conduct was not at issue in this trial, having prevailed on summary judgment in June.

Wayne-Sanderson Farms is pleased to have been able to make its case in court and thanks the jury for their time and thoughtfulness in evaluating this case.

About Wayne-Sanderson Farms
Columbus, Ohio, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Utility Rates updated its website to help consumers better compare Ohio electricity and natural gas rates for their businesses and homes. Consumers can now compare rates apples to apples and shop for the best Ohio electric and natural gas rates from top U.S. energy companies such as APG&E, Energy Harbor, Direct Energy, Frontier Utilities, and Constellation.



Utility Rates

As the top comparison site for Ohio energy choice, consumers can shop online for the lowest utility rates. Customers start the simple process by first choosing their energy type: natural gas or electricity. Next, they zip code and select their local utility. This shows them a list of providers, plans, and rates available in their area that they can browse and compare. Lastly, customers can pick the plan that best fits with their particular usage.

UtilityRates.com allows Ohio consumers to compare plans and rates apples to apples from energy providers certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO). Anyone unhappy with their current supplier can save on their electricity and natural gas bills by making a timely switch. Whether it is a new Ohio electricity connection or an Ohio natural gas switch, this platform makes the switch seamless, with no interruption in service. All it takes is just a few minutes.

The website also provides Ohio energy consumers plenty of information on what goes into their utility's Price to Compare rates. They can see how those prices are determined and how they affect their monthly bills. Customers can also see how distribution charges costs add to monthly bills based on average usage. This way, consumers not only can stay on top of rate changes but also make informed choices based on sound information.

UtilityRates.com is one of the most trusted platforms to compare electricity rates apples to apples in Ohio. Millions of businesses, including Fortune 100 companies, and residential customers rely on it to provide them with the best electricity and natural gas rate comparison. And best of all, a process that was daunting and time-consuming is now as simple as a few clicks of a button.

To learn more, visit https://www.utilityrates.com/electricity-rates/oh

About Utility Rates

Utility Rates is an online marketplace for consumers shopping for the best energy rates available in their local utility service area. The website helps consumers compare rates offered by vetted and verified electricity and natural gas retail suppliers in Georgia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.

###

Contact

Utility Rates

Phone: 866-338-1657

Email: info@utilityrates.com

Website: https://www.utilityrates.com/








Aalborg, Denmark, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- YACSS is pleased to announce the dates for its second annual YACSS SEO Conference in 2024. The three-day exclusive conference on cloud stacking and link building will be held between June 13 and June 16, 2024, Thursday through Sunday. The venue is the same as that of the 1st YACSS SEO Conference 2023, the luxurious Comwell Hotel Hvide Hus in Aalborg, Denmark. All business professionals, digital marketing enthusiasts, and SEO agency owners are welcome to participate in the marketing conference.



YACSS

Link building is considered one of the most effective strategies to rank higher on search engine result pages, yet it remains a difficult feat to achieve. Some of the challenges include demand for quality content by users, low-quality backlinks, not enough resources for link building, high competition from the niche, low domain authority, and so on. So those who want to know how link building can be used to build a robust and strong online presence must attend the YACSS SEO Conference 2024.

This link building conference is going to be an informative, instructive, and enlightening three-day session. Google has been misleading people that links are not as important as content. But link building experts say that links are powerful, and relevant links have the power to take the page ranking to a whole new level. Jesper Nissen, founder of YACSS, decided to arrange the only YACSS SEO Conference in 2023 to help industry people understand the importance of effective link building. The first annual conference was a huge success, with people from all around the world participating as speakers, delegates, and attendees.

The YACSS SEO Conference 2024 will have speakers talk about how they incorporate cloud stacking and supporting methods to achieve the desired results. Jesper will also share different ways to use YACSS. The conference will also have expert YACSS users sharing their experiences and connecting with other members in the conference. There are no recordings allowed, which means attendees will have access to firsthand information and get most value for their money. Those who will attend the YACSS SEO Conference 2024 will discover new ways of link building, learn how Google works today, know tested secrets by industry experts, and engage in knowledge sharing with other YACSS users. The VIP tickets are now on sale, and attendees will get an all-inclusive experience that includes four days stay at a luxurious hotel, inclusive of meals.

To learn more, visit https://yacss.site/yacss-seo-conference/.

About YACSS

YACSS was created by Jesper Nissen, an SEO expert, entrepreneur, and public speaker. This cloud stacking software is a fully automated web-based software that allows users to build large websites in just a few minutes. Individuals and businesses can benefit from AI-generated websites with automated back linking on cloud sites such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and many others as well as expired domains. YACSS is more than an AI website and backlink builder. It is an entire SEO platform.

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Disclaimer:

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.













Attachment
Harvia Plc press release 26 October 2023 at 9:45 a.m. EEST





Correction: Harvia will hold a webcast for analysts, investors and media on 2 November 2023 at 11:00 a.m. EET.





Harvia will publish its Interim Report for the period of JanuarySeptember 2023 on Thursday, 2 November 2023 at around 09:00 a.m. Finnish time. The stock exchange release and the presentation material will be available after publishing at https://harviagroup.com/investor-relations/ .

Harvia will hold a webcast for analysts, investors and media on 2 November 2023 at 11:00 a.m. EET. The conference will be held in English. Harvias CEO Matias Jarnefelt and CFO Ari Vesterinen will host the event. The webcast can be followed at: https://harvia.videosync.fi/q3-2023 .

A recording of the webcast will be available later at the companys website https://harviagroup.com/investor-relations/ .





HARVIA PLC





For further information, please contact:

CFO Ari Vesterinen, ari.vesterinen@harvia.com , tel. +358 40 5050 440





Harvia is one of the leading companies operating in the sauna and spa market globally, as measured by revenue. Harvias brands and product portfolio are well known in the market, and the companys comprehensive product portfolio strives to meet the needs of the international sauna and spa market of both private and professional customers.

Harvias revenue totaled EUR 172.4 million in 2022. Harvia Group employs more than 600 professionals in Finland, China and Hong Kong, Romania, Austria, United States, Germany and Estonia. The company is headquartered in Muurame, Finland, adjacent to its largest sauna and sauna component manufacturing facility.
Q3-23 Revenue and Net Income of  123.3 Million and  35.0 Million, Respectively

Q3-23 Orders of  127.3 million, Up 13.1% vs. Q2-23

Next  60 Million Share Repurchase Program Initiated

DUIVEN, the Netherlands, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. (the Company" or "Besi") (Euronext Amsterdam: BESI; OTC markets: BESIY), a leading manufacturer of assembly equipment for the semiconductor industry, today announced its results for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2023.

Key Highlights Q3-23

Revenue Q3-23 of  123.3 million down 24.1% vs. Q2-23 due to decreased smartphone shipments post H1-23 seasonal capacity build. Partially offset by increased demand for computing and automotive applications. Down 27.0% vs. Q3-22 due primarily to lower demand for computing applications

Orders Q3-23 of  127.3 million up 13.1% vs. Q2-23 and 1.6% vs. Q3-22 principally due to higher orders for computing, hybrid bonding and photonics applications partially offset by lower demand for automotive/industrial applications

Gross margin Q3-23 of 64.6% down 1.0 points vs. Q2-23 but above prior guidance. Up 2.3 points vs. Q3-22 due primarily to market position and cost control efforts

Net income Q3-23 of  35.0 million decreased 33.5% vs. Q2-23 while net margins declined to 28.4% vs. 32.4% due primarily to lower revenue and gross margins partially offset by a 15.6% decrease in operating expenses. Compared to Q3-22, net income declined 38.9% due primarily to lower revenue levels

Total cash of  391.2 million and net cash of  90.2 million at September 30, 2023 increased by 3.4% and 21.9%, respectively, vs. June 30, 2023 due to increased cash flow from operations



Key Highlights Year to Date 2023

Revenue YTD-23 of  419.2 million declined 28.4% vs. YTD-22 principally due to lower revenue with particular weakness in computing applications by IDMs and Asian subcontractors

Orders YTD-23 of  381.9 million declined 21.0% due primarily to adverse market conditions which significantly impacted demand for computing, and to a lesser extent, automotive applications

Gross margin YTD-23 of 64.8% rose 3.7 points principally resulting from a more favorable product mix, net forex benefits and overhead alignment with changing market conditions

Net income YTD-23 of  122.2 million decreased  78.3 million, or 39.1%, vs. YTD-22 primarily due to significantly lower revenue levels. Similarly, Besis net margin decreased to 29.1% from 34.3%

Outlook

Q4-23 revenue anticipated to increase 15-25% vs. Q3-23 due to increased shipments for computing applications with gross margins forecast to range between 62-64%

( millions, except EPS) Q3-

2023 Q2-

2023  Q3-

2022



 YTD-

2023 YTD-

2022



 Revenue 123.3 162.5 -24.1% 168.8 -27.0% 419.2 585.1 -28.4% Orders 127.3 112.6 +13.1% 125.3 +1.6% 381.9 483.2 -21.0% Operating Income 42.7 62.9 -32.1% 71.2 -40.0% 147.3 245.4 -40.0% EBITDA 48.9 69.3 -29.4% 77.1 -36.6% 166.4 262.3 -36.6% Net Income 35.0 52.6 -33.5% 57.3 -38.9% 122.2 200.5 -39.1% Net Margin 28.4% 32.4% -4.0 34.0% -5.6 29.1% 34.3% -5.2 EPS (basic) 0.45 0.68 -33.8% 0.71 -36.6% 1.57 2.53 -37.9% EPS (diluted) 0.45 0.66 -31.8% 0.69 -34.8% 1.54 2.40 -35.8% Net Cash and Deposits* 90.2 74.0 +21.9% 342.5 -73.7% 90.2 342.5 -73.7%



Richard W. Blickman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Besi, commented:

Besi reported solid Q3-23 results with revenue and operating profit above the midpoint of prior guidance. For the quarter, revenue of  123.3 million and net income of  35.0 million decreased by 24.1% and 33.5%, respectively, versus Q2-23 but orders grew by 13.1% reflecting increased demand for next generation computing, hybrid bonding and photonics applications. The sequential revenue decrease was principally due to decreased shipments for high-end smartphone applications post the H1-23 seasonal capacity build and general market weakness. Profit levels in the quarter remained elevated driven primarily by gross margins of 64.6% and a 15.6% decrease in operating expenses, both of which were better than prior guidance.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, revenue and net income declined by 28.4% and 39.1%, respectively, reflecting the impact of adverse market conditions on Besis business this year. 2023 revenue and order trends primarily reflect a broad-based downturn in demand for computing applications by both IDMs and Asian subcontractors, and, to a lesser extent, reduced demand for automotive applications following strong growth over the past two years. Our profit performance in this market environment remained strong with gross margin up by 3.7 points and a net margin realized of 29.1% as a result of the timely adjustment of Besis operating model to current market realities.

Besi ended the quarter with a strong liquidity position including cash and deposits of  391.2 million, up 3.4% from Q2-23. Our cash position reflects the capital allocation of  412.4 million to shareholders YTD-23, up 17.4% versus YTD-22. In addition, the current  300 million share repurchase program will be completed on October 27, 2023. Effective November 1, we will initiate a  60 million program designed to further reduce share dilution from the conversion of Convertible Notes outstanding.

We are also pleased to report significant progress on our advanced packaging roadmap this quarter. We received new orders for hybrid bonding systems in Q3-23 from two customers including the first order from a leading subcontractor as well as significant orders for photonics applications from various customers. Subsequent to quarter-end, we received further hybrid bonding orders from two customers and anticipate additional orders in Q4-23.

At present, we are primarily focused on maintaining solid margins in the current industry environment and executing development and operating initiatives to help capitalize on market opportunities in the next upturn. We believe we are in the early phase of a new assembly market upturn based on independent research data and customer utilization rates. However, there are many variables which could affect the upward slope of its trajectory including global economic growth, geopolitical conflict and the development of each of our principal mobile, computing and automotive end user markets. As such, we remain cautiously optimistic, encouraged by the ongoing progress of our wafer level assembly portfolio and market leadership position in key advanced packaging assembly systems. For Q4-23, we anticipate that revenue will increase by 15-25% versus Q3-23 due to planned shipments from backlog of hybrid bonding and other advanced packaging systems. In addition, we expect gross margins to range between 62-64% and for operating expenses to increase by approximately 5% versus Q3-23.

Third Quarter Results of Operations

 millions Q3-2023 Q2-2023  Q3-2022  Revenue 123.3 162.5 -24.1% 168.8 -27.0% Orders 127.3 112.6 +13.1% 125.3 +1.6% Book to Bill Ratio 1.0x 0.7x +0.3 0.7x +0.3



Besis Q3-23 revenue decreased by 24.1% versus Q2-23 due to decreased shipments for smartphone applications post the H1-23 seasonal capacity build. Decreased mobile demand was partially offset by increased shipments for computing and automotive applications. Versus Q3-22, revenue decreased 27.0% primarily as a result of adverse industry conditions and lower demand for a broad range of computing applications by IDMs and Asian subcontractors.

Orders of  127.3 million increased by 13.1% and 1.6% versus Q2-23 and Q3-22, respectively, principally due to higher orders for computing, hybrid bonding and photonics applications partially offset by lower demand for automotive/industrial applications. Per customer type, IDM orders increased  10.0 million, or 16.5%, versus Q2-23 and represented 55% of total orders for the period. Subcontractor orders increased by  4.7 million, or 9.0%, versus Q2-23 and represented 45% of total orders.

 millions Q3-2023 Q2-2023  Q3-2022  Gross Margin 64.6% 65.6% -1.0 62.3% +2.3 Operating Expenses 36.9 43.7 -15.6% 34.0 +8.5% Financial Expense/(Income), net 1.8 1.7 +5.9% 5.5 -67.3% EBITDA 48.9 69.3 -29.4% 77.1 -36.6%



Besis gross margin of 64.6% decreased by 1.0 point versus Q2-23 but was above prior guidance principally due to more favorable net forex effects. This quarters gross margin increased by 2.3 points versus Q3-22 due to favorable net forex effects, our market position and cost control efforts.

Q3-23 operating expenses declined by  6.8 million, or 15.6%, versus Q2-23 principally due to a  3.9 million reduction in share-based compensation expense and lower variable sales related costs and strategic consulting expenses. Operating expenses increased by  2.9 million, or 8.5%, versus Q3-22 primarily due to  1.6 million higher strategic consulting expense and increased share-based compensation expense.

Q3-23 financial expense, net, approximated Q2-23 levels but decreased by  3.7 million, or 67.3%, versus Q3-22 primarily because of increased interest income earned on cash balances outstanding.

 millions Q3-2023 Q2-2023  Q3-2022  Net Income 35.0 52.6 -33.5% 57.3 -38.9% Net Margin 28.4% 32.4% -4.0 34.0% -5.6 Tax Rate 14.4% 14.0% +0.4 12.8% +1.6



Besis net income decreased by 33.5% versus Q2-23 primarily due to decreased revenue and sequential gross margins realized, partially offset by a 15.6% reduction in operating expenses. As a result, Besis net margin declined to 28.4% versus 32.4%. Versus Q3-22, net income decreased by 38.9% principally as a result of a 27.0% revenue decrease and increased operating expenses partially offset by a 2.3-point increase in gross margin levels and lower financial expense, net.

Nine Months Results of Operations

 millions YTD-2023 YTD-2022  Revenue 419.2 585.1 -28.4% Orders 381.9 483.2 -21.0% Gross Margin 64.8% 61.1% +3.7 Operating Income 147.3 245.4 -40.0% Net Income 122.2 200.5 -39.1% Net Margin 29.1% 34.3% -5.2 Tax Rate 14.1% 13.0% +1.1



YTD-23 revenue of  419.2 million declined 28.4% versus YTD-22 principally due to a broad-based decrease across Besis product portfolio with particular weakness in computing applications by IDMs and Asian subcontractors. Orders of  381.9 million declined 21.0% due primarily to adverse market conditions which significantly impacted demand for computing, and to a lesser extent, automotive applications. Of note, revenue from Chinese customers increased by  7.1 million, or 5.3%, versus YTD-22 due primarily to higher demand for high-end smartphone applications.

Besis YTD-23 net income of  122.2 million decreased by  78.3 million, or 39.1%, versus YTD-22 due primarily to a 28.4% revenue reduction and higher strategic consulting and share-based compensation expense partially offset by a (i) 3.7-point gross margin increase due to a more favorable product mix, net forex benefits and cost control efforts as well as (ii) a  10.0 million improvement in financial expense, net due to higher interest income earned on cash balances outstanding.

Financial Condition

 millions



Q3

2023 Q2

2023  Q3

2022  YTD

2023 YTD

2022



 Total Cash and Deposits 391.2 378.3 +3.4% 661.8 -40.9% 391.2 661.8 -40.9% Net Cash and Deposits 90.2 74.0 +21.9% 342.5 -73.7% 90.2 342.5 -73.7% Cash flow from Ops. 65.1 28.7 +126.8% 112.7 -42.2% 155.3 185.2 -16.1% Capital allocation* 45.5 289.1 -84.3% 45.5 - 412.4 351.3 +17.4%

* Includes dividends and share repurchases.

Total cash and deposits of  391.2 million at the end of Q3-23 increased by 3.4% versus Q2-23. During the quarter, Besi generated cash flow from operations of  65.1 million which was used to fund (i)  45.5 million of share repurchases, (ii)  4.7 million of capitalized development spending and (iii)  2.0 million of capital expenditures.

Besis net cash of  90.2 million at the end of Q3-23 increased by  16.2 million (+21.9%) versus Q2-23. During the quarter,  4.9 million of Besis 2023 Convertible Notes and 2024 Convertible Notes were converted, resulting in a reduction of their principal balances to  0.1 million and  5.1 million, respectively.

Share Repurchase Activity

Besi repurchased 447,829 of its ordinary shares in Q3-23 at an average price of  101.60 per share for a total of  45.5 million. Cumulatively, as of September 30, 2023, approximately 4.1 million shares have been purchased under the current  300 million share repurchase program at an average price of  69.13 per share for a total of  286.5 million. As of such date, Besi held approximately 4.0 million shares in treasury, equal to approximately 4.9% of its shares outstanding. The share repurchase program will be completed on October 27, 2023.

Next  60 Million Share Repurchase Program

Besi will initiate a  60 million share repurchase program effective November 1, 2023. The program is aimed at general capital reduction purposes and to help offset dilution related to Besis Convertible Notes and shares issued under employee stock plans. It will be funded using Besis available cash resources and is expected to be completed by October 2024. At present, Besi has authority until October 26, 2024 to purchase up to 10% of its shares issued, or 8.1 million shares.

The program will be executed in accordance with industry best practices and in compliance with European buyback rules and regulations and may be suspended or discontinued at any time. The program will be managed by an independent brokerage firm. All purchases will be executed through Euronext Amsterdam and Multilateral Trading Facilities as defined by the Directive 2014/65/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of May 15, 2014 on markets in financial instruments and subject to the rules of the relevant Exchange.

Outlook

Based on its September 30, 2023 order backlog and feedback from customers, Besi forecasts for Q4-23 that:

Revenue will increase by approximately 15-25% vs. the  123.3 million reported in Q3-23

Gross margin will range between 62-64% vs. the 64.6% realized in Q3-23

Operating expenses will increase by ~5% vs. the  36.9 million reported in Q3-23

Investor and media conference call

A conference call and webcast for investors and media will be held today at 4:00 pm CET (10:00 am EDT). To register for the conference call and/or to access the audio webcast and webinar slides, please visit www.besi.com.





Important Dates 2024  Publication Q4/full year 2023 results February 22, 2024  Publication Q1-2024 results April 25, 2024  Besis AGM April 25, 2024



Basis of Presentation

The accompanying condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union. Reference is made to the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements as included in our 2022 Annual Report, which is available on www.besi.com.

About Besi

Besi is a leading supplier of semiconductor assembly equipment for the global semiconductor and electronics industries offering high levels of accuracy, productivity and reliability at a low cost of ownership. The Company develops leading edge assembly processes and equipment for leadframe, substrate and wafer level packaging applications in a wide range of end-user markets including electronics, mobile internet, cloud server, computing, automotive, industrial, LED and solar energy. Customers are primarily leading semiconductor manufacturers, assembly subcontractors and electronics and industrial companies. Besis ordinary shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam (symbol: BESI). Its Level 1 ADRs are listed on the OTC markets (symbol: BESIY) and its headquarters are in Duiven, the Netherlands. For more information, please visit our website at www.besi.com.

Contacts:

Richard W. Blickman, President & CEO

Leon Verweijen, SVP Finance

Claudia Vissers, Executive Secretary/IR coordinator

Edmond Franco, VP Corporate Development/US IR coordinator

Tel. (31) 26 319 4500

investor.relations@besi.com

Caution Concerning Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains statements about management's future expectations, plans and prospects of our business that constitute forward-looking statements, which are found in various places throughout the press release, including, but not limited to, statements relating to expectations of orders, net sales, product shipments, expenses, timing of purchases of assembly equipment by customers, gross margins, operating results and capital expenditures. The use of words such as anticipate, estimate, expect, can, intend, believes, may, plan, predict, project, forecast, will, would, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. The financial guidance set forth under the heading Outlook contains such forward-looking statements. While these forward looking statements represent our judgments and expectations concerning the development of our business, a number of risks, uncertainties and other important factors could cause actual developments and results to differ materially from those contained in forward looking statements, including any inability to maintain continued demand for our products; failure of anticipated orders to materialize or postponement or cancellation of orders, generally without charges; the volatility in the demand for semiconductors and our products and services; the extent and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and measures taken to contain the outbreak, and the associated adverse impacts on the global economy, financial markets, global supply chains and our operations as well as those of our customers and suppliers; failure to develop new and enhanced products and introduce them at competitive price levels; failure to adequately decrease costs and expenses as revenues decline; loss of significant customers, including through industry consolidation or the emergence of industry alliances; lengthening of the sales cycle; acts of terrorism and violence; disruption or failure of our information technology systems; consolidation activity and industry alliances in the semiconductor industry that may result in further increased customer concentration, inability to forecast demand and inventory levels for our products; the integrity of product pricing and protection of our intellectual property in foreign jurisdictions; risks, such as changes in trade regulations, conflict minerals regulations, currency fluctuations, political instability and war, associated with substantial foreign customers, suppliers and foreign manufacturing operations, particularly to the extent occurring in the Asia Pacific region where we have a substantial portion of our production facilities; potential instability in foreign capital markets; the risk of failure to successfully manage our diverse operations; any inability to attract and retain skilled personnel, including as a result of restrictions on immigration, travel or the availability of visas for skilled technology workers as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic; those additional risk factors set forth in Besi's annual report for the year ended December 31, 2022 and other key factors that could adversely affect our businesses and financial performance contained in our filings and reports, including our statutory consolidated statements. We expressly disclaim any obligation to update or alter our forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Consolidated Statements of Operations ( thousands, except share and per share data)



Three Months Ended

September 30,

(unaudited) Nine Months Ended

September 30,

(unaudited) 2023 2022 2023 2022 Revenue 123,320 168,784 419,227 585,149 Cost of sales 43,709 63,550 147,374 227,857 Gross profit 79,611 105,234 271,853 357,292 Selling, general and administrative expenses 23,310 20,517 81,679 72,430 Research and development expenses 13,614 13,513 42,907 39,451 Total operating expenses 36,924 34,030 124,586 111,881 Operating income 42,687 71,204 147,267 245,411 Financial expense, net 1,758 5,476 4,974 15,001 Income before taxes 40,929 65,728 142,293 230,410 Income tax expense 5,889 8,415 20,104 29,916 Net income 35,040 57,313 122,189 200,494 Net income per share  basic 0.45 0.71 1.57 2.53 Net income per share  diluted 0.45 0.69 1.54 2.40 Number of shares used in computing per share amounts: - basic 77,374,933 80,161,142 77,656,542 79,378,741 - diluted 1 82,444,358 85,797,295 83,038,212 85,769,732







Consolidated Balance Sheets ( thousands) September

30, 2023

(unaudited) June 30,

2023

(unaudited) March 31,

2023

(unaudited) December 31,

2022

(audited) ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 205,025 192,977 489,927 491,686 Deposits 186,150 185,370 155,000 180,000 Trade receivables 127,006 158,543 145,921 148,333 Inventories 103,060 93,863 101,024 92,117 Other current assets 25,853 24,143 24,126 24,562 Total current assets 647,094 654,896 915,998 936,698 Property, plant and equipment 33,907 33,438 32,278 33,272 Right of use assets 18,559 19,083 16,512 17,480 Goodwill 45,813 45,564 45,556 45,746 Other intangible assets 87,639 85,409 82,191 81,218 Deferred tax assets 16,717 17,158 18,397 19,563 Other non-current assets 1,227 1,163 1,170 1,213 Total non-current assets 203,862 201,815 196,104 198,492 Total assets 850,956 856,711 1,112,102 1,135,190 Current portion of long-term debt 100 298 2,372 2,361 Trade payables 48,782 47,371 48,877 41,431 Other current liabilities 86,099 86,217 109,761 100,099 Total current liabilities 134,981 133,886 161,010 143,891 Long-term debt 300,871 304,027 316,779 322,815 Lease liabilities 15,346 15,907 13,837 14,372 Deferred tax liabilities 12,883 12,567 12,882 13,303 Other non-current liabilities 11,906 11,827 12,001 12,274 Total non-current liabilities 341,006 344,328 355,499 362,764 Total equity 374,969 378,497 595,593 628,535 Total liabilities and equity 850,956 856,711 1,112,102 1,135,190





Consolidated Cash Flow Statements ( thousands)



Three Months Ended

September 30,

(unaudited) Nine Months Ended

September 30,

(unaudited) 2023 2022 2023 2022 Cash flows from operating activities: Income before income tax 40,929 65,728 142,293 230,410 Depreciation and amortization 6,248 5,922 19,155 16,910 Share-based payment expense 1,575 904 16,300 13,143 Financial expense, net 1,758 5,476 4,974 15,001 Changes in working capital 15,697 37,610 (2,581) (54,141) Income tax paid (2,649) (2,157) (27,948) (33,339) Interest (paid) received 1,582 (778) 3,075 (2,742) Net cash provided by operating activities 65,140 112,705 155,268 185,242 Cash flows from investing activities: Capital expenditures (1,990) (2,635) (5,448) (4,642) Capitalized development expenses (4,700) (5,201) (15,341) (16,091) Repayments of (investments in) deposits - (30,000) (5,268) (30,289) Net cash used in investing activities (6,690) (37,836) (26,057) (51,022) Cash flows from financing activities: Proceeds from convertible notes - - - 172,176 Payments on lease liabilities (995) (1,051) (3,207) (2,886) Dividends paid to shareholders - - (222,109) (269,467) Purchase of treasury shares (45,537) (45,537) (190,264) (81,812) Net cash used in financing activities (46,532) (46,588) (415,580) (181,989) Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 11,918 28,281 (286,369) (47,769) Effect of changes in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 130 1,897 (292) 3,133 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period 192,977 376,581 491,686 451,395 Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 205,025 406,759 205,025 406,759





Supplemental Information (unaudited) ( millions, unless stated otherwise) REVENUE Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023 Q4-2022 Q3-2022 Q2-2022 Q1-2022 Per geography: Asia Pacific 83.1 67 % 124.1 76 % 95.8 72 % 98.2 71 % 126.9 75 % 164.1 77 % 159.3 79 % EU / USA / Other 40.2 33 % 38.4 24 % 37.6 28 % 39.5 29 % 41.9 25 % 49.9 23 % 43.1 21 % Total 123.3 100 % 162.5 100 % 133.4 100 % 137.7 100 % 168.8 100 % 214.0 100 % 202.4 100 % ORDERS Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023 Q4-2022 Q3-2022 Q2-2022 Q1-2022 Per geography: Asia Pacific 86.9 68 % 84.6 75 % 106.8 75 % 127.4 71 % 93.3 74 % 104.3 68 % 161.8 79 % EU / USA / Other 40.4 32 % 28.0 25 % 35.2 25 % 53.1 29 % 32.0 26 % 48.8 32 % 43.0 21 % Total 127.3 100 % 112.6 100 % 142.0 100 % 180.5 100 % 125.3 100 % 153.1 100 % 204.8 100 % Per customer type: IDM 70.5 55 % 60.5 54 % 74.0 52 % 98.2 54 % 80.7 64 % 86.8 57 % 97.1 47 % Subcontractors 56.8 45 % 52.1 46 % 68.0 48 % 82.3 46 % 44.6 36 % 66.3 43 % 107.7 53 % Total 127.3 100 % 112.6 100 % 142.0 100 % 180.5 100 % 125.3 100 % 153.1 100 % 204.8 100 % HEADCOUNT Sep 30, 2023 Jun 30, 2023 Mar 31, 2023 Dec 31, 2022 Sep 30, 2022 Jun 30, 2022 Mar 31, 2022 Fixed staff (FTE) Asia Pacific 1,193 69 % 1,169 69 % 1,163 69 % 1,162 69 % 1,176 69 % 1,203 70 % 1,186 70 % EU / USA 532 31 % 520 31 % 519 31 % 513 31 % 518 31 % 511 30 % 500 30 % Total 1,725 100 % 1,689 100 % 1,682 100 % 1,675 100 % 1,694 100 % 1,714 100 % 1,686 100 % Temporary staff (FTE) Asia Pacific 164 66 % 198 71 % 232 74 % 60 42 % 237 74 % 433 83 % 536 86 % EU / USA 84 34 % 81 29 % 80 26 % 84 58 % 84 26 % 91 17 % 86 14 % Total 248 100 % 279 100 % 312 100 % 144 100 % 321 100 % 524 100 % 622 100 % Total fixed and temporary staff (FTE) 1,973 1,968 1,994 1,819 2,015 2,238 2,308 OTHER FINANCIAL DATA Q3-2023 Q2-2023 Q1-2023 Q4-2022 Q3-2022 Q2-2022 Q1-2022 Gross profit 79.6 64.6 % 106.6 65.6 % 85.7 64.2 % 85.8 62.3 % 105.2 62.3 % 130.4 61.0 % 121.6 60.1 % Gross profit as adjusted 79.6 64.6 % 106.6 65.6 % 85.7 64.2 % 85.8 62.3 % 105.2 62.3 % 130.4 61.0 % 121.6 60.1 % Selling, general and admin expenses: As reported 23.3 18.9 % 29.4 18.1 % 29.0 21.7 % 22.6 16.4 % 20.5 12.1 % 24.6 11.5 % 27.3 13.5 % Share-based compensation expense (1.6 ) -1.3 % (5.5 ) -3.4 % (9.3 ) -7.0 % (2.1 ) -1.5 % (0.9 ) -0.5 % (3.6 ) -1.7 % (8.6 ) -4.3 % SG&A expenses as adjusted 21.7 17.6 % 23.9 14.7 % 19.7 14.8 % 20.5 14.9 % 19.6 11.6 % 21.0 9.8 % 18.7 9.2 % Research and development expenses: As reported 13.6 11.0 % 14.3 8.8 % 15.0 11.2 % 14.5 10.5 % 13.5 8.0 % 13.3 6.2 % 12.6 6.2 % Capitalization of R&D charges 4.7 3.8 % 5.3 3.3 % 5.4 4.0 % 5.5 4.0 % 5.2 3.1 % 5.2 2.4 % 5.7 2.8 % Amortization of intangibles (3.3 ) -2.6 % (3.5 ) -2.2 % (3.5 ) -2.6 % (3.0 ) -2.2 % (2.9 ) -1.7 % (2.9 ) -1.3 % (2.9 ) -1.4 % R&D expenses as adjusted 15.0 12.2 % 16.1 9.9 % 16.9 12.7 % 17.0 12.3 % 15.8 9.4 % 15.6 7.3 % 15.4 7.6 % Financial expense (income), net: Interest income (2.9 ) (3.1 ) (2.6 ) (1.2 ) (0.2 ) (0.2 ) 0.0 Interest expense 2.8 2.9 2.9 2.8 3.3 3.7 2.4 Net cost of hedging 1.7 2.0 1.6 2.6 2.3 1.5 1.1 Foreign exchange effects, net 0.2 (0.1 ) (0.4 ) (0.6 ) 0.1 0.8 0.2 Total 1.8 1.7 1.5 3.6 5.5 5.8 3.7 Operating income as % of net sales 42.7 34.6 % 62.9 38.7 % 41.7 31.3 % 48.7 35.4 % 71.2 42.2 % 92.5 43.2 % 81.7 40.4 % EBITDA as % of net sales 48.9 39.7 % 69.3 42.6 % 48.2 36.1 % 54.8 39.8 % 77.1 45.7 % 98.0 45.8 % 87.2 43.1 % Net income as % of net sales 35.0 28.4 % 52.6 32.4 % 34.5 25.9 % 40.2 29.2 % 57.3 34.0 % 75.6 35.4 % 67.5 33.4 % Income per share Basic 0.45 0.68 0.44 0.51 0.71 0.94 0.87 Diluted 0.45 0.66 0.44 0.50 0.69 0.90 0.81

1) The calculation of diluted income per share assumes the exercise of equity-settled share-based payments and the conversion of all Convertible Notes
October 26, 2023

Safety of Philips iFR in the guidance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for heart disease demonstrated in late-breaking science at TCT 2023 highlighting patient-level outcomes analysis of 42,000 patients from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry

Previous data demonstrate that iFR delivers consistent patient outcomes, reduces discomfort and offers a more cost-effective and faster diagnostic solution [1,2] compared to FFR

Amsterdam, the Netherlands  Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the latest results demonstrating the safety of Philips instant wave-free ratio (iFR) in the guidance of PCI.

Philips is committed to clinically validating its innovations in cardiac and cardiovascular care. iFR is an innovative pressure-derived index only offered by Philips that is used to assess coronary blockages during interventional procedures. iFR avoids the use of hyperemic agents, a class of drugs that maximize blood flow but have a significant impact on the patient experience [3].

A longitudinal analysis from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry of more than 42,000 patients undergoing coronary procedures, showed no difference between iFR and fractional flow reserve (FFR) in major adverse cardiac events (MACE) [4]. The analysis, Long-term Safety of Revascularization Deferral Based on Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio or Fractional Reserve, compares patient outcomes using iFR and FFR in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

These new findings once again confirm the safety of iFR. We continue to see that iFR-guided treatment offers consistent outcomes, reduces costs, and provides a better patient experience, said Dr. Gotberg, Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden, who presented the results during a late-breaking science session at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) annual meeting in San Francisco. The data from this new analysis provides additional confidence in the safety of iFR for physicians.

In the previously published analysis of the five-year outcomes of the randomized trial iFR-SWEDEHEART, results found iFR and FFR to be equally safe and effective with respect to risks for MACE. The cumulative MACE risks for each group differentiated by 1.6% (iFR: 21.5%, FFR: 19.9%, HR 1.09 (95% CI: 0.90-1.33 at 5 years). There was no difference in risk for death, heart attack or new revascularization [3].

The results presented today from the SWEDEHEART registry revealed that patients in the iFR group had more risk factors compared with the FFR group but when adjusted for known confounders there was no difference in 5-year MACE between patients who underwent iFR or FFR-guided revascularization (32.2% vs. 31.3%, adjusted HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.931.05, p=0.65). Furthermore, the outcome was similar in the individual components of MACE (death, heart attack, new revascularization) as well as in both deferred and treated subgroups.

Patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent

iFR is considered the Gold Standard for hyperemia-free physiologic assessment for measuring pressure in diagnostic and interventional procedures [1,4]. Similar to FFR, clinicians use these tools coupled with angiographic images to assess coronary blockages. However, by avoiding administrating a hyperemic agent, patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent and enables iFR to detect disease processes downstream from the major blood vessels [4].

Only Philips iFR has a Class IA recommendation by the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions and European Society of Cardiology [1,2].

We are confident in our pursuit of innovation to improve outcomes and ensure patient safety. The data continues to demonstrate the benefits of iFR-guided treatment to reduce costs and improve outcomes, said Chris Landon, General Manager, Philips Image Guided Therapy Devices. iFR technology is unique to Philips, and we are proud to offer the global gold standard treatment for patients with ischemic heart disease.

For more information on Philips and the iFR data, please visit http://www.philips.com/iFR and follow the #TCT2023 conversation with @PhilipsLiveFrom throughout the event.

[1] Lawton J. et al. 2021 ACC/AHA/SCAI Guideline for Coronary Artery Revascularization. JACC. 2022;79(2):e21-e129.

[2] 2018 ESC/EACTS Guidelines on myocardial revascularization: The task force on myocardial revascularization of the European society of cardiology (ESC) and European association for cardio-thoracic surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2018;00:1-96. Japan guidelines.

[3] Gotberg M, et al. Instantaneous wave-free ratio compared with fractional flow reserve in PCI: A cost-minimization analysis. Int J Cardiol 2021 1;344:54-59.

[4] Gotberg M, Berntorp K, Rylance R, et al. 5  Year outcomes of PCI guided by measurement of instantaneous wave-free ratio versus fractional flow reserve. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2022;79(10):965974.

For further information, please contact:

Joost Maltha

Philips Global Press Office

Tel. : +31 6 10558116

E-mail: joost.maltha@philips.com

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2022 sales of EUR 17.8 billion and employs approximately 70,700 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter .

Attachments
Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Legionella testing market is projected to grow from USD 317.3 million in 2023 to USD 600.1 million by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of pneumonia, Pontiac fever, and Legionnaire's disease is set to augment the Legionella testing market share over the coming years.

Fortune Business Insights mentioned this in a report, titled Legionella Testing Market, 2023-2030.





Key Industry Development:

January 2019 - Asahi Kasei Pharma launched the Ribotest Legionella in Japan. The new product would enable the detection of 15 serogroups of Legionella pneumophila, assisting in the diagnosis of Legionnaires disease.





Request a Sample PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/legionella-testing-market-102803





Key Takeaways:

The rising occurrence of the disease is anticipated to drive the growth of the global market.

The global market is predicted to experience significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of Legionnaire's disease, Pontiac fever, and pneumonia.

North America market size was USD 115.7 million in 2022.

Clinical laboratories segment registered the highest revenue and is anticipated to continue this dominance during the forecast period.





List of Key Market Players Profiled in the Report:

Companies leading the global legionella testing market are Quidel Corporation (U.S.), Abbott (Alere) (U.S.), Merck KGaA (Germany), Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (U.S.), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (U.S.), BD (U.S.), bioMerieux (France), IDEXX Corporation (U.S.), Eurofins Scientific (Luxembourg)





Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 9.5% 2030 Value Projection USD 600.1 Million Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2023 USD 317.3 million Historical Data 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 125 Segments covered By Type, End-User, and Region





Browse Complete Report Details: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/legionella-testing-market-102803





Segmentation:

Urine Antigen Testing (UAT) Segment Dominated the Market Owing to Cost-effective Nature

On the basis of type, the market is divided into polymerase chain reaction (PCR), culture media, serology tests, urine antigen testing, and direct antibody fluorescent methods. In 2022, the urine antigen testing segment accounted for the largest market share. This was observed as the testing is cost-effective and is preferred by people living in developing countries. The test is extensively deployed for the detection of Legionella bacteria in urine.

Clinical Laboratories Segment Recorded the Highest Revenue Due to Increasing Occurrence of Disease

By end-user, the market is divided into clinical laboratories, hospitals and clinics, and others representing environmental testing sites. The clinical laboratories segment generated the highest revenue and is set to expand at a considerable rate over the forecast period. This rise is driven by the surging adoption of advanced tests, the growing prevalence of Legionella disease, and increased awareness regarding the disease.

On the basis of geography, the market for Legionella testing has been studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

By Type

Culture Media

Urine Antigen Testing (UAT)

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Serology

Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) Test

By End-User

Hospitals & Clinics

Clinical Laboratories

Others

By Geography

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa





Quick Buy - Legionella Testing Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/102803

Drivers & Restraints:

Strict Restrictions Imposed by Regulatory Bodies for Regular Water Testing to Drive Market Growth

The presence of different types of Legionella in water reservoirs, such as ponds and lakes, swimming pools, and warm water showers in commercial buildings, as well as water supply pipes, is an increasing public health problem. Legionellosis outbreaks result in an increased risk of illness and death among exposed individuals. This has led to an upsurge in the formulation of stringent restrictions pertaining to regular water testing by regulatory bodies. These factors are set to drive Legionella testing market growth over the forthcoming years.

Lack of awareness about the disease in underdeveloped countries may hinder market expansion.





Regional Insights:

North America Dominated the Market Owing to Increasing Occurrence of Legionella Diseases

In 2022, the North America market for Legionella testing was USD 115.7 million. The regional market growth is impelled by the presence of strict water testing regulations and the high diagnosis rate of the disease. Besides, the region is characterized by the presence of world-class health infrastructure.

Europe accounted for the second largest market share. This can be credited to the rising outbreaks of Legionella in the region and the surging adoption of high-cost PCR tests.





Competitive Landscape:

Prominent Players Deploy Acquisition and Merger Strategies to Expand Consumer Base

The Legionella testing sector is dominated by a few major players who are diversifying their offerings with advanced testing techniques such as UAT and PCR. These key players employ collaboration strategies such as mergers, acquisitions, product launches, and joint ventures to broaden their market reach and consumer base.





Speak to Analyst: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/legionella-testing-market-102803





FAQs

How big is the legionella testing market?

Legionella testing market size was USD 290.4 million in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 600.1 million by 2030.

How fast is the legionella testing market growing?

The legionella testing market will exhibit a CAGR of 9.5% during the forecast period, 2023-2030





Related Reports:

Point of Care Diagnostics Market Growth, Industry Analysis, Demand and Forecast

In-vitro Diagnostics Market Size, Share, Opportunities & Analysis

Veterinary Diagnostics Market Overview, Industry Share and Forecast





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. We aim to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

9th Floor, Icon Tower,

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Baner, Pune-411045,

Maharashtra, India.

Phone:

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Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global injectable cytotoxic drugs market size is projected to reach from USD 18.29 billion in 2023 to USD 26.50 billion by 2030, recording a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of cancer, multiple sclerosis, and other chronic diseases is predicted to boost the injectable cytotoxic drugs market growth.

Fortune Business Insights displays this information in a report titled, "Injectable Cytotoxic Drugs Market, 2023-2030."





Notable Industry Development:

June 2023: The U.S. FDA announced that it had allowed temporary imports of 50-milligram vials of cisplatin, an injectable chemotherapy drug, to boost its supplies in the U.S.





Request a Free Sample PDF: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/injectable-cytotoxic-drugs-market-104705





Key Takeaways:

Increasing prevalence of cancer and the high dependence on cytotoxic drugs for its treatment augmenting the market growth during forecast period.

Cytotoxic drugs, or chemotherapy, are also known for their major side effects, such as anemia, bone marrow depression, and follicle toxicity.

The North America injectable cytotoxic drugs market value stood at USD 8.44 billion in 2022.

higher adoption of cytotoxic drugs is estimated to propel the segment growth in the coming years.





List of key companies profiled in the report:

Companies leading the global injectable cytotoxic drugs market are Johnson and Johnson Services Inc., (U.S.), Sanofi (France), Eli Lilly and Company (U.S.), Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (U.S.), F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. (Switzerland), Novartis AG (Switzerland), Pfizer, Inc. (U.S.), Merck & Co. Inc. (U.S.), Amgen, Inc. (U.S.)





Report Scope & Segmentation

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 Forecast Period 2023 to 2030 CAGR 5.4% 2030 Value Projection USD 26.50 Billion Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2023 USD 18.29 billion Historical Data 2019 to 2021 No. of Pages 158 Segments covered By Product, Distribution Channel, and Region





Browse Complete Report Details: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/injectable-cytotoxic-drugs-market-104705





Segmentation:

Antimetabolites Segment to Gain Traction Due to Their High Use in Oncology Treatments

Based on drug class, the market is split into alkylating drugs, cytotoxic antibodies, antimetabolites, plant alkaloids, and others. The antimetabolites segment held the largest injectable cytotoxic drugs market share in 2022 due to extensive use in treating oncology and rheumatoid disorders.

Oncology Segment Takes the Lead as Demand for Effective Cancer Treatments Grows

In terms of application, the market has been categorized into oncology, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and others. The oncology segment dominated the global market due to the increasing cases of cancer and the rising demand for effective treatments.

Hospital Pharmacies Segments Leads Market, Catering to Demand for Expert Administration of Injectable Cytotoxic Drug

Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, drug stores & retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. The hospital pharmacies segment leads the global market as a wide range of injectable cytotoxic drugs require the expertise of highly skilled healthcare professionals to administer them.

With respect to region, the market covers North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.





By Drug Class

Alkylating Drugs

Cytotoxic Antibodies

Antimetabolites

Plant Alkaloids

Others

By Application

Oncology

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Multiple Sclerosis

Others

By Distribution Channel

Hospital Pharmacies

Drug Stores & Retail Pharmacies

Online Pharmacies

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East & Africa





Quick Buy - Injectable Cytotoxic Drugs Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/104705





Drivers and Restraints:

Growing Reliance On Cytotoxic Drugs to Treat Chronic Ailments to Fuel Market Growth

Cancer, having numerous causes, calls for effective standard treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, which are highly sought after by cancer patients. Injectable cytotoxic drugs are used as the first line of treatment for these patients. Many upcoming therapies, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy administer medicines in combination with cytotoxic/chemotherapy drugs. These factors are expected to boost market growth.

However, the rising availability of alternate therapies to treat cancer might restrain market progress.

Regional Insights:

North America to Dominate Market Due to Rising Cancer Cases

North America is expected to hold the largest market share as the region witnesses a significant increase in people suffering from various types of cancer. Moreover, cancer patients are gaining easier access to medicines effective in treating cancer, further fueling the regional market development.

Europe is expected to grow at a notable pace due to factors such as favorable healthcare reimbursement policies, increasing expenditure on cancer & rheumatoid arthritis treatment, and growing government initiatives to improve patients access to chemotherapy medicines.

Competitive Landscape:

Key Market Players to Launch Cost-Effective Treatments to Retain Market Dominance

The injectable cytotoxic drugs market is highly fragmented and competitive due to the growing presence of regional as well as international companies. Johnson & Johnson Services Inc. dominated the market in 2022 by focusing on mergers and acquisitions. Moreover, many companies are introducing cost-effective treatments to increase their access to low- and middle-income patients, helping them cement their market positions.





Speak to Analyst: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/injectable-cytotoxic-drugs-market-104705





FAQs

How big is the Injectable Cytotoxic Drugs Market?

Injectable Cytotoxic Drugs Market size was USD 17.65 Billion in 2022. It is expected to reach USD 26.50 Billion by 2030.

How fast is the injectable cytotoxic drugs market growing?

The Injectable Cytotoxic Drugs Market will exhibit a CAGR of 5.4% during the forecast period, 2023-2030





Related Reports:

Rheumatoid Arthritis Testing Market Growth, Industry Analysis, Demand and Forecast

Immunology Market Size, Share, Opportunities & Analysis

Multiple Sclerosis Drugs Market Overview, Industry Share and Forecast





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

9th Floor, Icon Tower,

Baner - Mahalunge Road,

Baner, Pune-411045,

Maharashtra, India.

Phone:

U.S.: +1 424 253 0390

U.K.: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

Attachment
Dublin, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Agricultural Adjuvants Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product, By Application, By Source, By Formulation, By Type by Crop, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.



The global agricultural adjuvants market size is expected to reach USD 5.25 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 4.7% from 2023 to 2030.

Industry growth is majorly driven by the increasing demand for crop protection chemicals for improving the yield of crops due to shrinking arable land and growing population globally. The global demand for crop protection products is expected to drive market growth.

For instance, according to the Economic Survey, the agricultural and other related industries in India were the most resilient to COVID-19, with a growth of around 3.6% in 2020-21 and 3.9% in 2021-22. In addition, in the U.S., the agricultural sector contributed around 5.0% of the country's total GDP due to the rising demand for food, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.



Moreover, due to the population explosion, farmers are required to produce more food grains in a short span of time. Also, the sizes of arable lands have shrunk due to the growing population and rapid urbanization & industrialization, further increasing the pressure on farmers to produce more on less available land. This is a huge concern for agriculture-based economies in the world, such as India, which is highly dependent on agriculture and related activities. Thus, farmers resort to using agricultural adjuvants and fertilizers to increase the yield in a short period. Furthermore, according to the FAO, agriculture will need to produce approx. 50% more food, biofuel, and livestock fodder by 2030 than that produced in 2012 to meet the global demand.



This has resulted in the growing demand for agrochemicals, which, in turn, will drive the demand for the product market. On the other hand, fluctuating prices of raw materials may hamper the industry growth to some extent. The majority of agrochemical raw materials are exported by China; however, due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019 in China, the supply of various raw materials including petroleum products and chemicals have been affected, resulting in fluctuations in the prices of these raw materials and ultimately the prices of agricultural adjuvants.

Companies Mentioned

Clariant AG

Solvay SA

The Dow Chemical Company

Evonik Industries AG

Ingevity

Nufarm Limited

Corteva Agriscience

Croda International PLC

BASF SE

Miller Chemical & Fertilizer, LLC

Helena Chemical Company

Winfield United

Wilbur-Ellis Holdings, Inc.

Stepan Company

Agricultural Adjuvants Market Report Highlights

The global market growth is attributed to the increasing rate of crop loss due to pests & insects hampering the production yield

The activator adjuvants segment dominated the market in 2022 since these activators are used in agrochemicals as they are less expensive and easier to obtain than utility adjuvants

The herbicides application segment led the global market in 2022 as herbicides are used to suppress the growth of undesirable plants, such as weeds, which cause around 25% of crop loss worldwide annually. According to the FAO, over 2 million tons of herbicides were consumed globally in 2019. This is more than double the number of insecticides used in 2019

The petroleum-based source segment led the market in 2022 due to the ability of these sources to slow down the drying rate of crop protection chemicals to improve their absorption into crops, thus making them more efficient

The conventional segment dominated the market in 2022 as they are majorly used with pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers for improving yields of oilseeds & pulses, cereals & grains, and fruits & vegetables

Asia Pacific was the leading region in 2022 on account of the availability of low-cost labor and an abundance of raw materials

Key Attributes:

Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 114 Forecast Period 2022 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2022 $3.65 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $5.25 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 4.7% Regions Covered Global

Key Topics Covered:



Chapter 1 Methodology and Scope



Chapter 2 Executive Summary



Chapter 3 Agricultural Adjuvants Market Variables, Trends & Scope

3.1 Market Lineage Outlook

3.2 Industry Value Chain Analysis

3.2.1 Raw Material Analysis

3.2.2 Technology Trends Analysis

3.2.3 Sales Channel Analysis

3.3 Regulatory Framework

3.4 Market Dynamics

3.4.1 Market Driver Analysis

3.4.1.1 Increasing Demand For Crop Protection Chemicals

3.4.1.2 Growing Population & Shrinking Arable Land

3.4.2 Market Restraint Analysis

3.4.2.1 Stringent Regulations To Hinder The Market Growth

3.4.3 Market Challenge Analysis

3.4.4 Market Opportunity Analysis

3.5 Price Trend Analysis, 2018 - 2030

3.6 Business Environment Analysis

3.6.1 Industry Analysis - Porter

3.6.2 Pestel Analysis



Chapter 4 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Supplier Portfolio Analysis

Chapter 5 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Product Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 6 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Application Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 7 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Source Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 8 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Formulation Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 9 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Type by Crop Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 10 Agricultural Adjuvants Market: Regional Estimates & Trend Analysis



Chapter 11 Agricultural Adjuvants Market - Competitive Landscape



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/l14k4i

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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METTAWA, Ill., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), today, released its third quarter 2023 financial results. A complete and full-text financial results press release is available on the Companys website at https://ir.brunswick.com . The results will also be available on the SECs website with the Form 8-K filing of the release at http://goo.gl/wJQN1 .

The Company will hold a conference call at 10 a.m. CDT/ 11 a.m. EDT, today, October 26, 2023, hosted by David M. Foulkes, chief executive officer, Ryan M. Gwillim, executive vice president and chief financial officer and Neha Clark, senior vice president, enterprise finance. A copy of the presentation to be used on this call will be available when the results are released as noted above.

Security analysts and investors wishing to participate via telephone should call 877-900-9524 (No Password Needed). Callers outside of North America should call 412-902-0029 (No Password Needed) to be connected. These numbers can be accessed 15 minutes before the call begins, as well as during the call.

To listen via the Internet, go to www.brunswick.com/investors. Please go to the website at least 15 minutes before the call to register, download and install any needed audio software.

A replay of the conference call will be available through 1pm CST Thursday November 2, 2023, by calling 877-660-6853 or 201-612-7415 (Access ID: 13741706). The replay also will be available at www.brunswick.com/investors .

About Brunswick Corporation:

Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) is the global leader in marine recreation, delivering innovation that transforms experiences on the water and beyond. Our unique, technology-driven solutions are informed and inspired by deep consumer insights and powered by our belief that Next Never Rests. Brunswick is dedicated to industry leadership, to being the best and most trusted partner to our many customers, and to building synergies and ecosystems that enable us to challenge convention and define the future. Brunswick is home to more than 60 industry-leading brands. In the category of Marine Propulsion, these brands include, Mercury Marine, Mercury Racing, MerCruiser and Flite. Brunswicks comprehensive collection of parts, accessories, distribution, and technology brands includes Mercury Engine Parts & Accessories, BLA and Land N Sea. Our Navico Group and its industry-leading technology brands consist of Lowrance, Simrad, B&G, Mastervolt, RELiON, Attwood and Whale. Our Boat brands are some of the best known in the world, including Boston Whaler, Lund, Sea Ray, Bayliner, Harris Pontoons, Princecraft and Quicksilver. In addition, our service, digital and shared-access businesses include Freedom Boat Club, Boateka and a range of financing, insurance, and extended warranty businesses. While focused primarily on the marine industry, Brunswick also successfully leverages its portfolio of advanced technologies to deliver an exceptional suite of solutions in mobile and industrial applications. Headquartered in Mettawa, IL, Brunswick has approximately 18,000 employees operating in 27 countries. In 2022, Brunswick was named by Forbes as a Worlds Best Employer and as one of Americas Most Responsible Companies by Newsweek, both for the third consecutive year. For more information, visit www.Brunswick.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates, and projections about Brunswicks business and by their nature address matters that are, to different degrees, uncertain. Words such as may, could, should, expect, "anticipate," "project," "position," intend, target, plan, seek, estimate, believe, predict, outlook, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve certain risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from expectations as of the date of this news release. These risks include, but are not limited to: the effect of adverse general economic conditions, including the amount of disposable income consumers have available for discretionary spending; changes in currency exchange rates; fiscal and monetary policy changes; higher energy and fuel costs; competitive pricing pressures; adverse capital market conditions; actual or anticipated increases in costs, disruptions of supply, or defects in raw materials, parts, or components we purchase from third parties; supplier manufacturing constraints, increased demand for shipping carriers, and transportation disruptions; managing our manufacturing footprint; international business risks, geopolitical tensions or conflicts, sanctions, embargoes, or other regulations; public health emergencies or pandemics, such as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic; adverse weather conditions, climate change events and other catastrophic event risks; our ability to develop new and innovative products and services at a competitive price; loss of key customers; our ability to meet demand in a rapidly changing environment; absorbing fixed costs in production; risks associated with joint ventures that do not operate solely for our benefit; our ability to integrate acquisitions, including Navico, and the risk for associated disruption to our business; our ability to successfully implement our strategic plan and growth initiatives; attracting and retaining skilled labor, implementing succession plans for key leadership, and executing organizational and leadership changes; our ability to identify, complete, and integrate targeted acquisitions; the risk that restructuring or strategic divestitures will not provide business benefits; maintaining effective distribution; dealers and customers being able to access adequate financing; requirements for us to repurchase inventory; inventory reductions by dealers, retailers, or independent boat builders; risks related to the Freedom Boat Club franchise business model; outages, breaches, or other cybersecurity events regarding our technology systems, which have affected and could further affect manufacturing and business operations and could result in lost or stolen information and associated remediation costs; our ability to protect our brands and intellectual property; changes to U.S. trade policy and tariffs; any impairment to the value of goodwill and other assets; product liability, warranty, and other claims risks; legal, environmental, and other regulatory compliance, including increased costs, fines, and reputational risks; changes in income tax legislation or enforcement; managing our share repurchases; and risks associated with certain divisive shareholder activist actions.

Additional risk factors are included in the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2022 and in subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made, and Brunswick does not undertake any obligation to update them to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release.
India, Pune, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The demand for Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market has been increasing in recent years due to a growing awareness of climate change and the need to take action to reduce carbon footprints. Fortune Business InsightsTM has presented this information in its report titled Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market, 2022-2029. Voluntary carbon offsets are a well-known mechanism for reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere.

Key Industry Developments

As mentioned earlier, there has been a significant increase in demand for voluntary carbon offsets. This demand comes from both individuals and corporations looking to mitigate their carbon emissions





Request Sample Copy of the Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/voluntary-carbon-offsets-market-104248





Drivers & Restraints -

Many companies are setting ambitious sustainability and carbon reduction goals, which often include achieving carbon neutrality. To reach these goals, they invest in carbon offsets to compensate for emissions they cannot eliminate internally.

Increased awareness among individuals and consumers regarding climate change and environmental responsibility has led to a surge in demand for voluntary carbon offsets. Many individuals purchase offsets to mitigate their personal carbon footprints or to support eco-friendly initiatives.

Growing concerns about the impacts of climate change have prompted more people and organizations to take action. Voluntary carbon offsets offer a way for concerned citizens and companies to participate in climate mitigation efforts.

The development of carbon marketplaces and online platforms has made it easier for buyers to find and invest in carbon offset projects. These platforms provide transparency and accessibility, which drive market growth.

The adoption of rigorous quality standards and certification schemes, such as the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and the Gold Standard, has improved trust and credibility within the market. Buyers are more confident in the effectiveness of offset projects.





To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: ht tps://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/voluntary-carbon-offsets-market-104248





Segmentation -

On the basis of type, the market is divided into forestry, renewable energy, landfill methane projects, and others. On the basis of application, the market is segmented into industrial, household devices, energy industry, agriculture, and others. On the basis of end-use, the market is fragmented into government, non-government, private sector, and others. Geographically, the market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa.

By Type

Forestry

Renewable Energy

Landfill Methane Projects

Others

By Application

Industrial

Household Device

Energy Industry

Agriculture

Others

By End-Use

Government

Non-Goverment

Private Sector

Others





Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/voluntary-carbon-offsets-market-104248





Report Coverage -

The report covers an in-depth analysis on the voluntary carbon offsets market. The report comprises details on the growth opportunities, challenges, driving, and restraining factors. Furthermore, the report covers details about the key market players adopting several growth strategies to sustain in the market.

Regional Insights -

Greater Demand for Clean Electricity to Accelerate Growth in North America

The voluntary carbon offsets market share in North America is expected to remain the leading region during the forecast period. The increase is due to supportive government regulation aimed at lowering CO2 emissions. The rising demand for carbon offsets in industrial applications will drive market expansion. In Europe, the leading countries are the U.K. and Germany. The Asia Pacific market will expand due to the rising demand for carbon offsets in household devices and agricultural applications. The Middle East and Africa are expected to see significant growth due to the increasing adoption of carbon offsets in the energy industry.





Pre Book - Voluntary Carbon Offsets Market: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/104248





Competitive Landscape -

Finite Carbon to launch a voluntary carbon offset program

In October 2019, Finite Carbon Inc., a Finite Resources subsidiary, launched a voluntary carbon offsets program. BP Ventures has invested $5 million in this launch. The investment will help Finite Carbon launch a new business that will reduce emissions and provide sustainable forest management.

List of Key Players in the Global Market -

SOUTH POLE

Shell

Vertis Environmental Finance

Terrapass

3Degrees

NativeEnergy

Forest Carbon Ltd

FairClimateFund

BNP Paribas CIB

Carbon Footprint Ltd

ClimeCo Corporation





Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/queries/voluntary-carbon-offsets-market-104248





About Us:

Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. Our aim is to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

Phone:

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UK : +44 2071 939123

APAC : +91 744 740 1245
Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The rising demand for clean energy resources is expected to have a positive impact on the global market during the forecast period, states Fortune Business Insights, in a report, titled  Biomass Briquette Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Raw Material (Wood, Agricultural Residue, Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), Others), By Application (Power Generation, Thermal Energy, Others) and Regional Forecast, 2023-2030 the rising global warming is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market in the forthcoming years.

Key Industry Developments:

December 2019: Mitsubishi introduced a biomass power generation project at Suzukawa Energy Center. The company is committed to sustainable energy development to reduce rising carbon emissions.

Mitsubishi introduced a biomass power generation project at Suzukawa Energy Center. The company is committed to sustainable energy development to reduce rising carbon emissions. November 2018: Toshibas subsidiary announced the investment of 20 billion yen in the new biomass power plant. Toshiba has plans on investing in emerging technologies.

Request Sample Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/sample/biomass-briquette-market-102750

Market Driver:

Escalating Shift towards Sustainable Energy Source to Stimulate Growth

The growing environmental concerns have led to the shift towards sustainable energy goals, which, in turn, will enable speedy expansion of the market in the forthcoming years. The growing necessity for clean energy sources is expected to be a vital factor bolstering the growth of the market. The growing awareness regarding the environmental benefits of biomass briquettes is likely to create growth opportunities for the market. For instance, the burning of biomass briquettes does not emit harmful pollutants or does not pose a serious threat to the environment. Furthermore, biomass briquettes are majorly used in power generation, thermal energy, and others. The thermal energy is predicted to hold the lions share during the forecast period owing to its demand in cooking and heating especially in the rural areas. Additionally, the wood is expected to account for the largest share in the global market owing to its low cost and feasible operation.

However, the low energy output as compared to traditional energy resources and lack of awareness about the benefits of biomass briquettes are factors expected to dampen the growth of the market.

Covid-19 Impact:

The coronavirus occurrence has caused the world to a surprising standstill. We understand that this health disaster has negatively impacted various sectors across the globe. Rising support from governments and several companies can help in the fight against this highly infectious virus. There are some industries that are struggling and some are thriving. More or less, nearly every sector is estimated to be impacted by this pandemic.

We are making endless efforts to uplift businesses in this crucial need of the hour. Our expertise and experience can offer enormous benefits to help regain during this global pandemic.

Click here to get the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this Market.

Please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/biomass-briquette-market-102750

Report Coverage:

The report covers an overview of market analysis, major competitors, factors that would drive market growth and factors hindering market growth are also included in the report. Varied segments and its details are depicted in the report for better understanding of the attributes. Regional analysis is taken up in order to describe the dominant region in the global market. An in-depth research is done to gain insights of the market and its growth in upcoming time. Market dynamics like regional analysis, growth, and trends are discussed.

Biomass Briquette Market Segmentations:

The biomass briquette market can be effectively segmented based on various key factors, reflecting the diverse nature of this sustainable energy industry. One of the primary segmentation criteria is the type of raw material used in briquette production. Biomass briquettes are crafted from a range of materials, including wood, agricultural residues, and forestry residues. Each raw material type caters to specific applications and market niches, influencing the product's composition and characteristics.

Regional Analysis:

Adoption of Clean Energy Sources to Accelerate Growth in North America

Geographically, the biomass briquette market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. The market in North America is expected to witness a rapid growth rate owing to the growing demand and adoption of clean energy sources. As per the EIA report in 2019, the total production of densified biomass fuel reached 11.84 million tons per year and collectively employed around 2,400 employees. Europe is expected to grow tremendously during the forecast period owing to the EU2020 target and sustainable energy goals. The market in Asia Pacific is expected to account for a significant share owing to the growing population and limited availability of energy resources in India and China. The growing agriculture sector is expected to boost the market in the region. The growing rural population dependability on natural resources is expected to augur well for the market in India. The lack of sufficient energy resources is expected to create opportunities for the market in Africa.

Quick Buy - Biomass Briquette Market Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/102750

Competitive Landscape: Biomass Briquette Market

The market report provides a comprehensive overview of prominent players in the global Biomass Briquette Market, offering an in-depth understanding of the competitive landscape. It includes detailed company profiles, strategies, capabilities, historical analysis, cost assessment, and prevailing strategies. By examining the companys total sales, pricing, and production over the forecast period, readers can gain insights into the market presence of these players. The competitive landscape of the market is further elucidated through an analysis of factors such as top manufacturers, pricing trends, and revenue generation.

List of Players Operating in the Biomass Briquette Market are as follows:

Enviva

Pacific BioEnergy

Drax Biomass Inc.

PFEIFER Group

Biomass Secure Power Inc.

Energex Pellet Fuel, Inc.

Lignetics, Georgia Biomass, LLC

African Briquet Factory

Om Greentech Industries.

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/queries/biomass-briquette-market-102750

Biomass Briquette Market Segmentation:

By Raw Material:

Wood

Agricultural Residue

Municipal Solid Waste (MSW)

Others

By Application:

Power Generation

Thermal Energy

Others

Get your Customized Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/biomass-briquette-market-102750

About Us:

Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Contact Us:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

US: +1 424 253 0390

UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245
Washington, DC, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This week, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is proud to join the unwavering advocacy efforts of Angel and George Mueller, parents of Dillon Mueller, in support of Dillon's Law (H.R. 3910).

Introduced by Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Dillon's Law is a bipartisan bill that incentivizes states to allow trained individuals to carry and administer life-saving epinephrine in emergency situations and to establish civil liability protections for those individuals.

Dillon's Law is named after Dillon Mueller, an 18-year-old boy whose life was tragically cut short due to a severe allergic reaction to a bee sting. Dillon had never experienced such a reaction before and did not have a prescription for epinephrine.

The Dillon Mueller case is exactly why we need to expand access to rescue medication like epinephrine to treat anaphylaxis, said AAFA president and CEO Kenneth Mendez. Dillons Law will make it more likely that someone experiencing anaphylaxis receives emergency epinephrine when they need it for a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Yesterday, Mendez and the Muellers met with Reps. Grothman and Dingell to express AAFAs strong support of Dillons Law and our gratitude for their leadership on behalf of the nearly 1 in 50 Americans at risk of anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, must be treated with epinephrine right away to provide the best chance for improvement and prevent serious, potentially life-threatening complications.

The passing of Mischicot native Dillon Mueller was a tragedy, says Rep. Grothman. By making epinephrine more readily available, we can ensure no parent has to endure the loss of a child in the event of a life-threatening allergic reaction due to anaphylaxis. I am honored to continue to work hand-in-hand with Dillons parents, Angel and George Mueller, who are diligently promoting how Dillons Law can play a pivotal role in saving lives across the nation.

No parent should have to grieve the loss of a child from anaphylaxis. Timely access to an EpiPen can be the difference between life and death, and we as a nation must be doing more to prepare communities to respond to anaphylaxis, says Rep. Dingell. Im proud to join Rep. Grothman and the Mueller Family in supporting Dillons Law which not only honors Dillons memory but will also save lives. We owe it to the millions of Americans living with potentially life-threatening allergies.

My husband George and I are visiting Washington, D.C. to meet face to face with lawmakers to share our story and our mission to save lives in Dillons memory. This legislation is lifesaving, bipartisan and allows normal everyday people to become heroes when every second counts, says Angel Mueller. The original Dillons Law in our home state of Wisconsin was signed by Gov. Scott Walker at Mishicot High School in December 2017 and we then began our Do it for Dillon epinephrine training program. Over 3,000 everyday people have since taken our course and 12 lives have been saved. They are the heroes that we must continue to empower. Dillons Law saves lives.

About AAFA

Founded in 1953, AAFA is the oldest and largest non-profit patient organization dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions through research, education, advocacy and support. AAFA offers extensive support for individuals and families affected by asthma and allergic diseases, such as food allergies and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Through its online patient support communities, network of local chapters and affiliated support groups, AAFA empowers patients and their families by providing practical, evidence-based information and community programs and services. AAFA is the only asthma and allergy patient advocacy group that is certified to meet the standards of excellence set by the National Health Council. For more information, visit: aafa.org

Attachment
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Battery Metals Inc. (Vital or the Company) (CSE: VBAM | OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is pleased to announce results from the mapping and rock sampling program completed on the Sting project (the Project), located in northwestern Newfoundland. Significant gold, copper and zinc values in rock were encountered along a contact between mafic volcanic and intrusive rocks, a regional structure referred to as the Gregory River Fault that is known to host precious and base metal mineralization.



Key Highlights

Highlighted results include 9.5 g/t gold, 0.5% copper and 2.0% zinc discovered in outcrop .

. Significant results in outcrop across a regional NE trending zone of high copper, gold, and zinc.

On trend with the York Harbour Copper Mine 1 - Regional magnetic geophysics clearly shows the faulted contact between the mafic marine volcanics and hypabyssal intrusive rock, referred to as the Gregory River Fault, running through the center of the Sting group of claims and the York Harbour Copper Mine (Figure 2).

- Regional magnetic geophysics clearly shows the faulted contact between the mafic marine volcanics and hypabyssal intrusive rock, referred to as the Gregory River Fault, running through the center of the Sting group of claims and the York Harbour Copper Mine (Figure 2). Cluster of highly anomalous samples taken over 350 m from an area with no documented mineral showing.

Claim package comprises prospective geology covering 123 km 2 in mining-friendly Newfoundland.

in mining-friendly Newfoundland. Structural analysis and soil sample interpretation are ongoing. The Company is currently planning for the next phase of exploration that will continue to expand upon and refine the encouraging geochemical results discussed above, with the ultimate aim to produce drill targets.

Adrian Lamoureux, Vitals Chief Executive Officer and President, stated, These positive results continue to build on our initial exploration program at the Sting Project that previously yielded impressive results as high as 14.2% copper and gold values ranging from 0.007 ppm to 0.470 ppm. Gold values from the 2023 program were considerably higher than historical sampling, underscoring the highly prospective nature of the Property. We are currently planning the next stage of exploration with hopes to define upcoming drilling targets as well as fully explore the expanding project area.

The mafic rocks that underlie the Jumbo Lode Prospect, the key focus for the recent exploration program, are part of the Bay of Islands Complex that is host to copper and copper/zinc deposits such as the York Harbour Mine1, a former producer located 35 km to the south-southeast. The contact between the volcanic and intrusive rocks of the Bay Island Complex has been to shown to host copper, gold and zinc mineralization and is evidenced by sampling results from the recently completed program in the area of the Jumbo Lode prospect that returned <0.001 to 9.50 ppm gold, <1 to 48400 ppm copper and 4 to 19700 ppm zinc.





Figure 1 - The Jumbo Showing of the Sting Project





Figure 2  Copper and Zinc trend along the contact between the Volcanic and hypabyssal mafic rocks of the Bay Island Complex

Sampling teams collected 99 rock samples and 404 soil samples over four grids across the property. Soil samples were collected at 25 metre intervals along lines and lines were 100  200 metres apart.

Soil sampling results from the program are currently being interpreted in conjunction with a structural study and will be discussed in a subsequent news release.

Table 1 - Significant Rock Results





Regional magnetic geophysics clearly shows the faulted contact between the mafic marine volcanics and hypabyssal intrusive rock, referred to as the Gregory River Fault, running through the center of the Sting group of claims.

The spring field program was managed by Coast Mountain Geological Ltd. (CMG) of Vancouver, B.C. The rock and soil samples collected by the field team were submitted by CMG personnel directly to SGS Labs in Grand Falls Windsor, Newfoundland where they were analysed under analytical codes GE and ARM3V25.

Qualified Person

Derrick Strickland, P. Geo (1000315), a Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101  Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release.

1 The Qualified Person has not verified the information on the adjacent properties and the information disclosed and is not necessarily indicative of mineralization on the Sting Project that is the subject of this press release. Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby and/or geologically similar properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Companys property.

About Vital Battery Metals Inc.



Vital Battery Metals Inc. (CSE: VBAM |OTC: VBAMF | FRA: C0O) is a mineral exploration company dedicated to the development of strategic projects comprising battery, base and precious metals in stable jurisdictions. The Company is working to advance its Schofield Lithium, Dickson Lake Lithium, Sting Copper Project, and Vent Copper-Gold Projects.

The Schofield Lithium Project covers 8,824 hectares and is adjacent to Brunswick Explorations Hearst Lithium Project. The Schofield Lithium Project is located ~60 km south of Hearst, Ontario.

The Dickson Lake Lithium Project covers 464 single-cell mining claims and approximately 9,780 hectares and is near a Brunswick Exploration Lithium Project, Imagine Lithiums Jackpot Deposit and Rock Techs Georgia Lake Deposit.

The Sting Copper Project covers approximately 12,300 hectares and hosts multiple historic Newfoundland and Labrador Government documented mineral occurrences and is located within a 50 km corridor known for significant volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS), copper quartz vein lode and low sulphation epithermal gold showings. The Vent Copper-Gold project covers 1,562 hectares in British Columbia. Vital continues to evaluate value-add assets to bolster its project portfolio.

For more information, visit www.vitalbatterymetals.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

Adrian Lamoureux

Chief Executive Officer, Director

+1 (604) 229-9772

info@vitalbatterymetals.com

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements that are not historical facts, including without limitation, statements regarding future estimates, plans, programs, forecasts, projections, objectives, assumptions, expectations or beliefs of future performance, including statements regarding the Project acquisition bringing a low-risk opportunity, the Company building a strong battery metals portfolio with low-risk opportunities that positively impact the Company and its shareholders and the Company providing an initial work plan are "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Project and its mineralization potential; the Companys objectives, goals or future plans with respect to the Project; the commencement of drilling or exploration programs in the future; the expected benefits from the results of the program. These forward-looking statements reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company based on information currently available to it. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in filings made by the Company with securities regulatory authorities, which may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information 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, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless so required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/24ae52a5-12b4-4524-80f7-4be1f53b15c8

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/647ba439-2456-49f3-b15e-f8a9eadc2281

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c34519fc-ad20-495c-9e3c-334b357be322
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Girlstart, an Austin-based nonprofit celebrating 26+ years of empowering girls through STEM, announces today a new partnership with fashion-tech company La Maison Steel. Through November 16, La Maison Steel will donate 20% of all SmrtKuff sales to Girlstart to support its After School, Summer Camp, and Community STEM programs.

STEM challenges need new ideas and solutions, yet half of the world's population, girls and women, are not invited to the table. Women are dramatically underrepresented in STEM majors and careers, constituting 48% of the total workforce, but only 34% of the STEM workforce. Girlstart seeks to change this through its comprehensive After School, Summer Camp, and Community STEM programs, which introduce STEM careers to girls who have been historically marginalized. These evidence-based programs reach girls during the critical 4th-8th grades and provide the confidence and awareness they need to pursue STEM interests in elementary and middle school and beyond.

We are thrilled to partner with a tech-forward company like La Maison Steel, said Girlstarts Executive Director Shane Woods. Their commitment to innovation and empowering the next generation of women and girls in tech hits right at the heart of our mission. We cant wait to see what we accomplish together.

La Maison Steel is at the forefront of the fashion-tech industry. Their mission is to connect fashion with the value of blockchain technology and digital authentication. During Paris Haute Couture Week in July 2023, La Maison Steel introduced its new line of Apple Watch accessories, known as SmrtKuffs. The luxury connected cuffs aim to fight against counterfeiting while bringing more people, especially women, into the world of blockchain technology.

We are honored to partner with Girlstart as our missions align so closely, said Nicole Steel, Founder and Creative Director at La Maison Steel. When I set out to create an original fashion accessory compatible with Apple Watch, I could not imagine how heavily I would lean on my STEM foundation, not just for the design, but to work through the multitude of challenges along the way. For example: to be sure the product had integrity, we tested up to 16 Newton forces, which is why we invented a new connector and the implementation of blockchain technology for authenticity. If I had not been supported by a solid STEM education, I could never have brought the SmrtKuff to life. Girlstart provides critical programming for girls to understand they can problem solve through these subjects to find a path forward. I hope our connection between STEM and fashion inspires these girls to innovate now and in the future.

To support Girlstart and purchase a SmrtKuff watch band, visit https://bit.ly/SmrtKuff and use code GIRLSTART at checkout.

ABOUT GIRLSTART

Girlstart is a national women-led organization, offering year-round out-of-school STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) programming for girls in grades 4-8 in Texas, California, Massachusetts, and other locations across the country. Girlstart's comprehensive programs are designed to engage, increase confidence, and introduce STEM careers to girls who have been historically marginalized by providing meaningful, hands-on STEM programming through after school, summer camps, and other community events. To learn more, visit www.girlstart.org, or follow us on social: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

ABOUT LA MAISON STEEL

La Maison Steel, launched in 2023 at Paris Haute Couture Week, as the worlds first blockchain native luxury brand and the invention of a new luxury accessory, the SmrtKuff. While creating a fashion cure for Apple Watch, Steel merged art, fashion, and technology to create a modern cultural-shifting brand rooted in exceptional detail and integrity. The Icon logo represents the Steel philosophy of authenticity, inspiration, innovation, and excellence. Led by founder and designer, Nicole Steel, the team spans Paris, Zurich, Madrid, Chicago, and Palm Beach. All Steel designs are born with a proprietary On-Chain Verified process that revolutionizes digital product passports and authenticity. La Maison Steel has approximately 150 global utility or design patents and trademarks published or pending. To learn more visit www.lamaisonsteel.com, and follow us social: Instagram @lamaisonsteel @smrtkuff, TikTok @lamaisonsteel or LinkedIn @lamaisonsteel

Contact:

Girlstart: Sarah Guenther-Moore

512-916-4775

sarah@girlstart.org

La Maison Steel:

steel@lamaisonsteel.com

A document accompanying this announcement is available at

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9ca9a755-9795-4d8a-b3a7-714fe5a36cef
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- There are only two months left before the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) becomes available to many more Canadians. Yet more than 25,000 dentists nationwide are in the dark about how the Government of Canada will safeguard access to dental care.



In a letter sent to Members of Parliament (MPs) this week, the presidents of provincial and territorial dental associations across the country asked how the government will:



Safeguard employer-provided dental plans that two-thirds of Canadians currently have access to?

Ensure that a strong federal program can be coordinated with existing provincial programs?

Protect patient choice and maintain the patient-provider relationship?

Ensure minimal, efficient administration that promotes timely access to care?

Respect the costs of delivering dental care to maximize provider participation?

Increase the number of dental assistants and dental hygienists to meet the demands of the CDCP?

Dentists want to champion a CDCP that will respect patients, providers, and taxpayers. The provincial and territorial dental associations are concerned that the CDCP has been compromised by a lack of meaningful consultation with dentists  who will be expected to deliver on the governments promises.

The CDCP is currently in final planning stages, with a potential rollout in 2024 that will attempt to increase access to uninsured Canadians under 18, people with disabilities, and seniors who have an annual family income of less than $90,000. Dentists believe all Canadians need access to dental care. If not done properly, two-thirds of Canadians who have great employer-provided dental plans could lose their coverage and be forced into a worse plan. Costs would then skyrocket, which means the $13 billion over five years the government set aside would not be enough to sustain the plan.

Lets take the time to get it right. We can increase access to dental care right now through an expansion of the interim measure already in place  the Canada Dental Benefit. This establishes a fixed dollar amount that a patient can use to be reimbursed for dental-related expenses.

Facts:

Canadas provincial and territorial dental associations represent more than 25,000 licensed dentists working in more than 16,000 offices. They treat more than 30 million Canadians every year and employ at least 50,000 1 oral health care workers.

oral health care workers. Over 60 per cent of Canadians have a dentist they visit on a regular basis. 2

A recent survey commissioned by Health Canada found that nearly nine out 10 Canadians are satisfied with the Canada Dental Benefit.3



Quotes:

To succeed, this plan needs to work for both patients and providers, and to work in each province. What we are recommending is based on decades of experience and caring for the oral health needs of the more than 30 million people that come into our dental offices across the country every year.  Dr. Bruce Yaholnitsky, President, Alberta Dental Association

Poorly designed programs do not improve access to care, and they leave the most vulnerable people in society behind. This is an historic opportunity, but only if the government gets it right. Dentists have the expertise, experience, and skills to know what it takes to ensure good oral and overall health.  Dr. Rob Wolanski, President, British Columbia Dental Association

As dentists we are excited to be a part of this Canadian dental care program, but there are key critical issues that need to be included for this program to be successful.  Dr. Scott Leckie, President, Manitoba Dental Association

New Brunswick dentists are already extremely busy with the recent spike in population and the backlog in demand for services related to Covid-19. This program was intended to provide dental care to the 35 per cent of Canadians who are uninsured. It needs to be easy to understand and to administer, and to be fair to all parties, including patients, dental care providers and taxpayers. Canadians need to know what benefits are being provided and which are not, before they arrive at the dental clinic.  Dr. Joanah Campbell, President, New Brunswick Dental Society

The new program must be sustainable in terms of funding, and easy to understand and access. It has to be patient-centred and work for everyone.  Dr. Shane Roberts, President, Newfoundland & Labrador Dental Association

While the CDCP has the potential to improve the lives of many Canadians, this can only be achieved if its done right. To ensure the greatest possible outcome, we must consider all of the moving pieces and take a patient-centred approach.  Dr. Juli Waterbury, President, Nova Scotia Dental Association

The CDCP could be a game-changer for Canadians access to dental care. But we have one chance to get it right. Here in Ontario, we have seen that dental care programs developed without the input of dentists are doomed to fail. Just look at the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program, where waiting lists are up to two years long in some areas, and some patients have to travel ridiculously long distances to receive treatment.  Dr. Brock Nicolucci, President, Ontario Dental Association

This new program has the potential to improve access to care for many Canadians. It must be sustainable, patient-centred, and easy to access for patients. A poorly designed program will not improve access to care which is something we would like to avoid. We want this to work for Canadians.  Dr. Derek Thiessen, President, College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan

Media contact:

Oliveah Numan

onuman@sussex-strategy.com

1 Canadian Institute for Health Information. Health Workforce in Canada, 2017 to 2021: Overview  Data Tables.

2 Abacus Data: Survey 2023. Prepared for the Canadian Dental Association.

3 The Strategic Counsel: Canada Dental Benefit Baseline Survey (March 2023). Prepared for Health Canada.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NINE MILE METALS LTD. (CSE: NINE, OTCQB: VMSXF, FSE: KQ9) (the Company or Nine Mile), is pleased to announce that it has received all necessary drill permits on its Wedge Project southwest of the Brunswick #12 Mine. Lantech Drilling has been engaged to drill these high priority targets once it completes the current hole at Nine Mile Brook. The Lantech track mount rig mobilizes this upcoming Monday after a required break during the NB Hunting season for the past 3 weeks.



The Company has identified nine (9) high priority target areas in our western camp portfolio, the recently acquired Wedge Project, which is located 20 kilometers southwest of the Brunswick #12 mine. In addition to the historic Wedge Mine, the Cominco Wedge Mine Extension (never drill tested), the newly acquired Wedge North Target, which completes the California Lake East Trend, West Wedge and Tribag (representing a 4.5kms VMS Trend) and Lower 44 Mile Brook targets.





Figure 1: New Drill Program High Priority Targets, Wedge Project Area, New Brunswick

Discovered in 1956, the Wedge Mine is located at the northern terminus of a strong magnetic linear (Figure 1). Between 1962 and 1968, the mine produced 1.503MT grading (2.88% Cu, 0.65% Pb, 1.81% Zn, 20.6 g/t Ag). McCutcheon et al (2005) stated a historical measured resource of 545,200T* (1.75% Cu, 1.71% Pb & 5.21% Zn) to a depth of 274 meters.

To the northwest, both the West Wedge and Tribag lie along the west flank of a similar magnetic anomaly near parallel to the one at the Wedge. At Tribag, trenching by Slam Exploration Ltd. in 2017 identified massive to strongly disseminated Pb / Zn mineralization. At the West Wedge, previous drilling intersected 12.8% zinc, 5.35% lead, 0.78% copper, 70.6 g/tonne silver and 1.30 g/t gold over 3.8m. The mineralization at both the West Wedge and Tribag occur within the sediments and volcanics of the Spruce Lake Formation of the California Lake Group.



With previous drilling focused on known occurrences, the VMS mineralization at the Wedge Project has considerable room for expansion. The favourable horizon is over 5 kilometers in length defined by anomalous base metal soil geochemistry and coincident zones of conductivity. We look forward to testing these high priority targets, stated Gary Lohman, B.Sc., PGO, VP Exploration and Director.

Figure 1: above, displays the newly identified (9) VMS priority targets.

1. Wedge Mine 2. Wedge Mine Extension 3. TriBag Target 4. West Wedge Target



5. Lower 44 Mile Brook Target 6. Wedge North Target 7. Upper 44 Mile Brook Target

8. California East Drill Holes 2022 9. Canoe South Target

Our strategic acquisitions have now secured that Nine Mile owns the entire California East VMS Trend (targets 6 & 8). We believe the acquisition of claims over target (6) completes the strike extension of the mineralization intersected in the 8 highly successful California Drill hole results of 2022. The California East VMS Trend is approximately 3kms in length along a parallel trend to the rocks hosting the Canoe Landing Lake Deposit to the east (33.8MT Deposit). Target (2) is the Wedge Mine Extension that was identified and scheduled to drill by Cominco but never commenced. The original Wedge Mine cross-section of the deposit is displayed below in Figure 2:, the deposit is open at depth and along strike. We look forward to testing the historic mine and intersecting the high-grade mineralization we have previously released. The entire Wedge VMS Trend has been identified by EarthEx and their proprietary re-processing algorithm technology. The trend is 5kms in length.

Patrick J Cruickshank, CEO & Director stated, Our strategic acquisitions now allow us to execute our exploration program without limitations. We now own the entire California East and Wedge VMS Trends. We are excited to test these high priority targets identified by our (3) technology systems and now that the Hunting season break is over, we are ready to get back to our Fall Drill Program. We will also test the Wedge Mine at depth and along trend the Cominco Extension that Cominco identified and scheduled to drill but never executed. We are highly encouraged by our Wedge Ore assays representing high grade Copper up to 29% and Lead-Zinc up to 41% previously reported. We continue to evaluate new technologies in the exploration space, the BMC has only 1% outcrop and 99% is subsurface hidden vertical deposits. Every 20 years a new technology causes the discovery of many new deposits. Our technical team of professionals including EarthEx and our AI partner, are working to uncover the next signature for exploration successes in the BMC. As you can see in Figure 1, EarthEx proprietary technology has clearly identified the existing Canoe Landing Lake & The Wedge Deposits in their processes and we are highly encouraged to test their newly identified targets. We look forward to our next news release sharing our progress.



Figure 2: The Original Wedge Mine Deposit Cross-section

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., 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 our 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.

McCutcheon, S., et al, , 2005 - Stratigraphic setting of base-metal deposits in the Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick; Geological Association of Canada, Mineralogical Association of Canada, Petroleum Geologists, Canadian Society of Soil Sciences, Joint Meeting - Halifax, May 2005, Field Trip B4; Department of Earth Sciences Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 3J, AGS Special Publication Number 30, 107p.

Social Media

ON BEHALF OF NINE MILE METALS LTD.

Patrick J. Cruickshank, MBA

CEO and Director

T: (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 Company will also test the Wedge Mine at depth and along trend of the Cominco Extension, (b) the Company believes the acquisition of claims over target (6) completes the strike extension of the mineralization intersected in the 8 highly successful California Drill hole results of 2022, and (c) the Company continues to evaluate new technologies in the exploration space. 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/d939cba8-e62a-4960-865f-c6c7db1fcfa5

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/90142c04-9c5d-4da3-bdd2-2c3823d34462
Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global personal care packaging market size was valued at USD 39.45 billion in 2022 and is expected to be worth USD 42.26 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 71.06 billion by 2030, recording a CAGR of 7.71% during the forecast period.

Personal care packaging is a crucial component of the personal care sector as it plays a vital role in safeguarding packaged items from spoilage and spillage. A diverse range of attractive packaging products are employed to package body care, skin care, and hair care solutions, enhancing their appeal among customers. With more customers focusing on improving their personal hygiene and self-care needs, the production of personal care products has significantly increased. This factor is anticipated to boost the personal care packaging market growth.

Fortune Business Insights displays this information in a report titled, "Personal Care Packaging Market, 2023-2030."

Get a Sample Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/personal-care-packaging-market-107317

List of Key Companies Profiled in the Personal Care Packaging Market Report:

Amcor Plc (Switzerland)

WestRock Company (U.S.)

Mondi Group (U.K.)

Sonoco Products Company (U.S.)

Gerresheimer Ag (Germany)

Albea Services S.A.S. (France)

HCT Packaging Inc. (U.S.)

Ampac Holdings LLC (U.S.)

AptarGroup (U.S.)

Crown Holdings Inc. (U.S.)

Ball Corporation (U.S.)

American Packaging Corporation (U.S.)

Heinz-Glass GmBH (Germany)

KOA Glass Co. Ltd. Coghlan (Japan)

Quadpack Industries (Spain)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attributes Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 7.71% 2030 Value Projection USD 71.06 Billion Market Size in 2022 USD 39.45 billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 210 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Material

By Product Type

By Application Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Personal Care Packaging Market Growth Drivers Rising Need for Green Packaging Solutions to Boost Market Progress Demand for Attractive and Informative Packaging to Boost Product Application in Skincare Items

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/personal-care-packaging-market-107317

Segmentation:

Plastic Materials to Gain Traction Due to Their Lucrative Advantages

Based on material, the market is segmented into plastic, paper, metal, and glass. The plastic segment holds the largest share of personal care packaging market share due to the key benefits offered by this material, such as protection against harmful external elements and prolonged freshness of the product.

Demand for Bottles & Jars to Rise Due to Their Versatility in Packing Several Personal Care Products

Based on product type, the market is segmented into bottles & jars, bags & pouches, tubes, boxes & cartons, trays & films, caps & closures, and others. The bottles & jars segment dominates the market as these products are used extensively to package all kinds of personal care items.

Demand for Attractive and Informative Packaging to Boost Product Application in Skincare Items

Based on application, the market is segmented into skin care, hair care, oral care, body care, and others. The skin care segment is dominating the market due to the rising sales of skincare products, such as sunscreens, body lotions, cleansers, and moisturizers.

With respect to region, the market covers North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

COVID-19 Impact:

E-Commerce Witnessed Robust Growth during COVID-19, Fueled by Increased Product Use

The COVID-19 pandemic adversely impacted many industries across the world, including the personal care packaging sector. Nationwide lockdowns and the implementation of mask mandates decreased the demand for personal care and makeup products, slowing down market growth. However, the e-commerce sector witnessed a notable surge in business during this period as more people began shopping for these products online. This factor helped the market recover from its losses.

Get a Quote Now:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/personal-care-packaging-market-107317

Report Coverage:

The report conducts an in-depth analysis of the market and highlights several areas, such as competitive landscape, key market participants, leading product/service types, and key applications of the product. It also provides valuable information about the latest market trends and key industry developments. Besides the abovementioned factors, the report covers many factors that have fueled the markets growth in recent years.

Drivers and Restraints:

Rising Need for Green Packaging Solutions to Boost Market Progress

Customers are becoming increasingly aware of the impact of their daily lifestyle choices on the environment. They are choosing to buy from brands that use sustainable methods of production and packaging. This factor has boosted the demand for green packaging products to pack personal care items. Many manufacturers are also launching refillable, reusable, and recyclable personal care packaging solutions to expand their customer base and achieve their sustainability targets. These factors will drive the personal care packaging market share.

However, extreme fluctuations in raw material prices and stringent government regulations regarding the use of plastic materials can hinder market growth.

Regional Insights:

North America to Dominate Market Due to Flourishing Beauty & Personal Care Sector

North America is anticipated to dominate the global market, given its vast presence of reputed beauty and personal care brands, signaling a robust expansion of its beauty sector. Moreover, the growing demand for organic products is motivating manufacturers to use sustainable packaging methods, further boosting regional market growth.

Europe is the second region dominating the market due to factors such as the creation of intangible assets such as new brands, growing investments from countries outside Europe, and increasing investments in R&D activities.

Competitive Landscape:

Market Leaders to Launch New Products to Boost Their Dominance

The global market is dominated by a few companies that offer cutting-edge packaging solutions. They are also increasing their focus on introducing new products to strengthen their market positions. Some of the key market players include Westrock Company, Amcor Plc, Mondi Group, Gerresheimer Ag, and Sonoco Products Company, among many others.

Ask for Customization:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/personal-care-packaging-market-107317

Detailed Table of Contents:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Emerging Trends  For Major Countries Latest Technological Advancement Regulatory Landscape Porters Five Forces Analysis Impact of COVID-19 on the Personal Care Packaging Market

Global Personal Care Packaging Market Analysis (USD Billion), Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Material Plastic Paper Metal Glass Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Bottles & Jars Bags & Pouches Tubes Boxes & Cartons Trays & Films Caps & Closures Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Application Skin Care Hair Care Oral Care Body Care Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa



TOC Continued...!

Speak to Our Expert:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/personal-care-packaging-market-107317

Key Industry Development:

March 2023  Dow introduced six new personal care packaging products to speed up the creation of its sustainable product range. The newly launched products include several applications, such as color cosmetics, sun care, skin care, and hair care.

Read Related Insights:

Rigid Packaging Market to Hit USD 625.54 Billion by 2030 | With a CAGR of 5.43%

About Us:

Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. Our aim is to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

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Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

9th Floor, Icon Tower, Baner,

Mahalunge Road, Baner, Pune - 411045,

Maharashtra, India.

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Attachment
Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global tobacco packaging market size was valued at USD 17.63 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand from USD 18.23 billion in 2023 to USD 25.24 billion by 2030, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.76% over the study period. Packaging serves as a powerful tool in marketing in the tobacco industry for promotion, brand awareness creation, and advertisement by offering all the product information. The market expansion can be credited to the usage of packaging as a mode for promoting the product.

Fortune Business Insights provides this information in its research report titled Tobacco Packaging Market, 2023-2030.

Get a Sample Research Report:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf/tobacco-packaging-market-102865

List of Key Players Mentioned in the Tobacco Packaging Market Report:

Amcor Limited (Australia)

WestRock (U.S.)

Smurfit Kappa (Ireland)

Mondi Group (Austria)

Sonoco (U.S.)

Stora Enso Oyj (Finland)

Innovia Films (U.K.)

ITC Limited (India)

Taghleef Industries (U.S.)

International Plastics Inc. (U.S.)

Cigar Box Factory Esteli S.A. (Nicaragua)

LLFlex (U.S.)

Atlantic Packaging (U.S.)

Report Scope & Segmentation:

Report Attributes Details Forecast Period 2023-2030 Forecast CAGR 4.76% 2030 Value Projection USD 25.24 billion Market Size in 2022 USD 17.63 billion Historical Data 2019-2021 No. of Pages 210 Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Profiles, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors and Latest Trends Segments Covered By Material

By Product Type

By Packaging Type Regions Covered North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East and Africa Tobacco Packaging Market Growth Drivers Rising Demand for Plastic in Rolling to Impel Segment Growth Increasing Demand for Heated Tobacco Units (HTU) to Bolster the Market Growth

Browse Detailed Summary of Research Report with TOC:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/tobacco-packaging-market-102865

Segmentation:

Rising Demand for Plastic in Rolling to Impel Segment Growth

By material, the market is divided into paper, paperboard, plastic, and others. The plastic segment accounts for the largest tobacco packaging market share. Plastic packaging finds applications in the form of pouches and bags due to its high demand in rolling or chewing tobacco blends. This factor is proliferating the plastic segment expansion.

Folding & Cartons Segment to Dominate Owing to the Excellent Protection Feature

By product type, the market is divided into folding cartons, bags & pouches, films & wraps, boxes, and others. The folding & cartons segment accounts for the largest market share. Folding cartons help preserve the freshness and quality of tobacco products stored inside owing to their excellent protection attribute against light, moisture, and air.

Growing Demand for Innovative Cigarette Boxes to Fuel the Secondary Segment Growth

On the basis of packaging type, the market is bifurcated into secondary and primary. The secondary segment is expected to expand at a higher growth rate than the primary segment during the forecast period. The demand for innovative cigarette boxes is increasing. This factor is driving the segment growth.

Based on region, the market has been analyzed across the Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East & Africa, and North America.

COVID-19 Impact:

Supply Chain Upheavals Hindered the Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the tobacco packaging industry. The pandemic witnessed a delay in the procurement of materials such as inks, cardboard, and paper deployed for the product due to the upheavals in the supply chains. Moreover, in some regions, the decline in production capacity was observed due to social distancing norms and lockdowns, which impacted manufacturing facilities.

Get a Quote Now:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/get-a-quote/tobacco-packaging-market-102865

Report Coverage:

The report offers vital insights into the driving and restraining factors affecting the market growth. In addition, it highlights the latest trends, key industry developments, and the COVID-19 impact on market growth. The report also encompasses the competitive strategies formulated by prominent market players.

Drivers and Restraints:

Increasing Demand for Heated Tobacco Units (HTU) to Bolster the Market Growth

One of the major factors propelling the tobacco packaging market growth is the surge in the demand for heated tobacco units (HTU). The rising consumer awareness about the health implications of tobacco consumption has increased the uptake of heated tobacco units.

Despite an expanding scope for the adoption of tobacco packaging, tightening regulations on the usage and marketing of tobacco may impede the market growth.

Regional Insights:

Asia Pacific to Dominate Owing to Growing Cigarette Demand

The Asia Pacific market for tobacco packaging is anticipated to dominate during the forecast period. The demand for cigarettes is increasing in the region, propelling market growth.

Europe is the second-leading region due to innovations in packaging and printing technologies in the region.

Competitive Landscape:

Leading Companies Deploy Mergers and Acquisition Strategies to Expand Their Market Hold

The key tobacco packaging market players are focusing on deploying various strategies to outshine the competition. Partnerships, product innovations, and joint ventures are some of the key strategies deployed by leading manufacturers of tobacco packaging products. Several companies are also deploying mergers and acquisition strategies to capture the largest market share.

Ask for Customization:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/tobacco-packaging-market-102865

Detailed Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights Key Emerging Trends  For Major Countries Latest Technological Advancement Regulatory Landscape Porters Five Forces Analysis Global Packaging Market Outlook Value Chain Analysis Impact of COVID-19 on the Tobacco Packaging Market

Global Tobacco Packaging Market Analysis (USD Billion, Kiloton), Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Material Plastic Paper Paperboard Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Boxes Folding Cartons Films & wraps Bags & Pouches Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Packaging Type Primary Secondary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific Latin America Middle East & Africa

North America Tobacco Packaging Market Analysis (USD Billion, Kiloton), Insights and Forecast, 2019-2030 Key Findings / Summary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Material Plastic Paper Paperboard Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Product Type Boxes Folding Cartons Films & wraps Bags & Pouches Others Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Packaging Type Primary Secondary Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Country United States Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Material Plastic Paper Paperboard Others Canada Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast  By Material Plastic Paper Paperboard Others



TOC Continued...!

Speak to Our Expert:

https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/speak-to-analyst/tobacco-packaging-market-102865

Key Industry Development:

April 2019: AR Packaging Group AB announced the acquisition of Nampak Cartons Nigeria Limited, a manufacturer of folding carton products for tobacco, food, and consumer goods. This acquisition helped the company expand its footprint in the Africa market.

About Us:

Fortune Business Insights delivers accurate data and innovative corporate analysis, helping organizations of all sizes make appropriate decisions. We tailor novel solutions for our clients, assisting them to address various challenges distinct to their businesses. Our aim is to empower them with holistic market intelligence, providing a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

Address:

Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd.

9th Floor, Icon Tower, Baner,

Mahalunge Road, Baner, Pune - 411045,

Maharashtra, India.

Phone:

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UK: +44 2071 939123

APAC: +91 744 740 1245

Email: sales@fortunebusinessinsights.com

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Photo credit : Josee Dutil Photographe

Back row, L-R: Stephane Breton, Mario Bedard, Laurie Gagnon, Pierre-Olivier Brassard, Francois Moreau, Myranie Tremblay, Stephane Vaillancourt. Front row, L-R: Daniel Gagne, Daniele MacKinnon, Francis Lessard.

QUEBEC CITY, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The 2nd edition of the "Un Univers a Aimer" benefit cocktail on October 12 was a resounding success. The event, presented by Quebecor, Mallette, and Caisse Desjardins de Quebec, highlighted the YMCA's inspiring work with vulnerable people in the Saint-Roch district. The event raised $150,000, enabling the YMCA to consolidate youth initiatives. Programs that provide young people in the Saint-Roch community with important opportunities to develop their independence and sense of belonging.

Photo credit : Josee Dutil

Left to right : Mario Bedard-Mallette, Philippe Desroches-Quebecor, Stephane Breton- Caisse Desjardins de Quebec

In a gymnasium transformed by lights and decked out with a dozen gourmet food stations, Gaelle delivered touching testimony on how the YMCA has had a positive impact on her life, enabling her to develop essential skills to succeed in school.

Photo credit : Catherine Tetreault

Gaelle, Participant at YMCA of Saint-Roch.

"These experiences have opened up new perspectives and allowed me to meet people who have been invaluable support throughout my school career." Gaelle



Mario Bedard, President of The YMCAs of Quebec Foundation, delivered a rallying speech on the importance of building a just and equitable society, and the positive impact of The YMCA in the community.

"I'm involved with The YMCAs because they respond concretely to the current issues facing our society. By supporting our young people, newly arrived families to Quebec, the marginalized, and the vulnerable, the YMCA contributes directly to building a more just and equitable society. For me, it's a way of giving back and contributing to the development of the community in which I was born and raised. Mario Bedard, President of the Board of Directors, Mallette S.E.N.C.R.L., Chartered Professional Accountants.

The Foundation would like to extend its deepest thanks to the generous donors, service partners and volunteers of the business community who answered the call. Thanks to their support and commitment, the YMCA can:

help some 50 young people stay in school through our Alternative Suspension program.

reach over 100 young people through our TeenZone activities.

facilitate the integration of some 20 young people from vulnerable backgrounds into our Day Camp; and,

offer positive-action opportunities to over 100 people, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Photo credit : Catherine Tetreault

Room overview.

Presenters: Caisse Desjardins de Quebec, Mallette, and Quebecor

Auction Sponsor: Les Constructions Be-con Inc.

Cocktail Sponsor: Agence Theo, Harnois Energies, Beneva, Crakmedia and GM Developpement.

Corporate Sponsors: Sun Life, Novatize, Scotiabank/Roynat, National Bank Financial - Groupe Conseil Khalil, Gestion privee Desjardins, Edgenda, Tectra Tech QI Inc.

Bronze Partner: Centrale des syndicats du Quebec/CSQ, Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (CDPQ), Caron et Guay, Fiera Capital Gestion privee, Manulift, XPN Quebec Inc., Structures Fabrec Inc., Construction Genix Inc.

About The YMCAs of Quebec and its Foundation

In existence for more than 170 years, The YMCAs of Quebec is a unique charitable organization. Its mission: to inspire and encourage all people to fulfill their potential, thrive, and contribute to the community. The YMCAs of Quebec offers programs, both virtually and in-person in more than 30 locations across the province. It also operates The YMCA International Language School, The YMCA Residence for Asylum Seekers and Camp YMCA Kanawana.

The first YMCA in North America, The YMCAs of Quebec has been active in Montreal since 1851. Its impact extends to more than 13 boroughs on the island.

Since 1984, and thanks to the generosity of its volunteers and donors, The YMCAs of Quebec Foundation has supported the YMCA's mission by raising awareness of the impact of its community work and raising the funds to sustain it.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/71850d20-4406-461b-b295-692e453de64c

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a21e5be3-a456-4de5-a5d8-ae654c2368d4

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2dbe7bb4-bcf8-42ee-b2df-344ce10b3c7d

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e699c023-10e6-478f-8ff1-50787e9e2621
MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TopLine Financial Credit Union , a Twin Cities-based member-owned financial services cooperative , held their annual Personal Care Drive during the month of September benefitting three local non-profits, Avenues for Youth, Keystone Community Services and YMCA of the North Youth and Family Services. TopLine members and employees generously donated a variety of personal care items including body wash and soap, tooth paste and brushes, diapers, hair care products, socks and so much more to help neighbors in need.

Employees were able to participate by donating personal care items and money in exchange for a Foundation Friday/Saturday sticker, allowing them to wear jeans to work. TopLine and community members could also purchase items from our Amazon Wishlist or Target Registry and have them delivered directly to TopLine, and in return we delivered to our charitable partners. When the program ended TopLine employees and members had donated nearly 1,700 personal care items and over $900 in cash to assist local individuals and families in need.

Our employees, TopLine members and community members came together to help support the growing needs of youth, families and seniors, says Mick Olson, TopLine President and CEO. We remain dedicated to our social mission of caring for others and improving lives.

Since 2002, TopLine Financial Credit Union employees and members have been involved in several programs each year to benefit several local non-profit charitable organizations. In addition to the annual personal care drive these efforts have included drives for food, clothing, books, bikes, back-to-school supplies and holiday gifts.

Avenues for Youth provides emergency shelter, short-term housing and supportive services for homeless youth ages 16-24 in Hennepin County. There are over 4,900 homeless youth in Minnesota each night. Avenues shelters in Brooklyn Park and Minneapolis help over 250 youth annually. Visit www.avenuesforyouth.org to learn more.

Keystone Community Services is a community-based volunteer organization in St. Paul that helps thousands of low-income individuals and families in the East Metro Area. Keystones mission is to strengthen the capacity of individuals and families to improve their quality of life. Visit www.keystoneservices.org to learn more.

The YMCA of the North Youth and Family Services is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. To learn more about the Ys mission and work, visit https://www.ymcanorth.org/impact.

TopLine Financial Credit Union , a Twin Cities-based credit union, is Minnesotas 11th largest credit union, with assets of more than $794 million and serves over 50,000 members. Established in 1935, the not-for-profit financial cooperative offers a complete line of financial services from its five branch locations  in Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Maple Grove, Plymouth and in St. Pauls Como Park  as well as by phone, mobile app and online at www.TopLinecu.com . Membership is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, attends school or volunteers in Anoka, Carver, Chisago, Dakota, Hennepin, Isanti, Ramsey, Scott, Sherburne, Washington and Wright counties in Minnesota and their immediate family members. TopLine has been recognized as a National Standard Top Workplace for the 6 out of 7 years and has been named Twin Cities Business 2023 Best of Business Readers Choice Poll finalist in two categories: Credit Union and Mortgage Lender. Visit us on Facebook or Instagram. To learn more about the credit unions foundation, visit www.TopLinecu.com/Foundation.

CONTACT:

Vicki Roscoe Erickson

Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer

TopLine Financial Credit Union

verickson@toplinecu.com | 763.391.0872

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe3d8524-0330-4a86-9477-9293619c4f72
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP (Scott+Scott), an international securities and consumer rights litigation firm, is investigating whether certain directors and officers of AT&T Inc. (AT&T) (NYSE: T) breached their fiduciary duties to AT&T and its shareholders. If you are an AT&T shareholder, you may contact attorney Joe Pettigrew for additional information toll-free at 844-818-6982, or jpettigrew@scott-scott.com.



Scott+Scott is investigating whether members of AT&Ts board of directors or senior management failed to manage AT&T in an acceptable manner, in breach of their fiduciary duties to AT&T, and whether AT&T and its shareholders have suffered damages as a result.

On July 26, 2023, The Wall Street Journal reported that the U.S. Department of Justice and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency were investigating potential health risks from lead-sheathed telecom cables used for decades by AT&T, among other telecom companies.

What You Can Do

If you are an AT&T shareholder, you may have legal claims against AT&Ts directors and officers. If you wish to discuss this investigation, or have questions about this notice or your legal rights, please contact attorney Joe Pettigrew toll-free at 844-818-6982 or jpettigrew@scott-scott.com.

About Scott+Scott

Scott+Scott has significant experience in prosecuting major securities, antitrust, and consumer rights actions throughout the United States. The firm represents pension funds, foundations, individuals, and other entities worldwide with offices in New York, London, Amsterdam, Connecticut, California, and Ohio.

Attorney Advertising

CONTACT:

Joe Pettigrew

Scott+Scott Attorneys at Law LLP

600 W. Broadway, Suite 3300

San Diego, CA 92101

844-818-6982

jpettigrew@scott-scott.com
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- At the 2023 Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) is presenting its advanced approach to elevating the patient treatment journey. By harnessing state-of-the-art digital healthcare solutions, the hospital has showcased the role of such tools in enhancing healthcare outcomes and operational efficiency across diverse medical domains.



KFSH&RC has achieved substantial advancements in streamlining the patient admission process through the 'Ehalat' service. This automated platform simplifies medical referrals and fosters collaboration with both public and private healthcare entities. Additionally, it empowers users to submit medical reports, compile personal data, and access their medical historyall within a unified service, eliminating the necessity for in-person visits to the hospital. This not only simplifies the evaluation of a patient's condition and treatment eligibility but also provides real-time tracking and updates on applications.

Patients can now track their treatment progress remotely through "Altakhassusi" mobile application, providing them with secure access to their medical records. The app allows patients to view radiology and medical lab test results, easily schedule appointments, attend virtual follow-up sessions with their physicians, and even assess the effectiveness of their treatment. Moreover, it enhances the process of prescription refills, medical supplies, and nutritional needs, making communication with the medical team and the hospital effortless.

KFSH&RC is dedicated to providing a high-quality treatment experience with automation at every stage. This approach saves time and effort for patients, and it improves medical decision-making through cutting-edge methods and care models that leverage the rapid advancements in digital health innovations. These capabilities enable seamless integration of various medical technologies, consolidating clinical results, documents, and medical data. This ranges from surgical notes to post-operative care, ensuring a smooth flow of information, boosting care efficiency, and customizing it to meet each patient's unique needs.

KFSH&RC is globally recognized for its exceptional specialized healthcare services and groundbreaking innovations. It stands as an advanced hub for medical research and education, committed to advancing medical technologies and raising the standard of healthcare on a global scale. Through collaborations with prominent local, regional, and international institutions, it aspires to deliver world-class services in clinical care, research, and education.

The Global Health Exhibition, featuring the participation of 250 exhibitors from 15 countries, stands as the premier healthcare gathering in the Middle East. It serves as a platform for collaboration among Saudi and global healthcare communities, including regional and international manufacturers and suppliers. This year's summit, operating under the theme 'Investing in Health,' promises to be a pivotal event shaping the future of healthcare.

Contact information:

kfshrc@mcsaatchi.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2825a442-d3e8-4c08-aa98-61fb48e4fe5e
PRESS RELEASE

Brussels, 26 October 2023, 5:40 PM

Non-regulated information



THE DEVELOPERS NEXTENSA AND PROMOBE HAVE SOLD THE DARWIN II OFFICE BUILDING TO THE LUXEMBOURG STATE







The developers Nextensa and Promobe have sold on October 25 2023 the Darwin II office building, located in the new Cloche dOr District, to the Luxembourg State, with the Ministry of Health as the main user.





The Darwin II building



The Darwin II office building is located in Rue Charles Darwin in the new Cloche dOr district in Luxembourg City, a neighbourhood which is evolving with a mix of residential, working, shopping and leisure functions. The entire Cloche dOr district has been awarded with the German DGNB Platinum sustainability certification.*



The Darwin II property is located next to the citys largest park that has been inaugurated in June 2023. In terms of mobility, the district will in the first quarter of 2024 be connected by Luxtram to the tram network of the city of Luxembourg.



The Darwin II building is a modern and sustainable office building with six above-ground and two below-ground floors comprising a total surface area of around 5,000 sqm. It has obtained a DGNB GOLD sustainability certification*.





The building has already been delivered and taken into use in March 2022.



Transaction



Nextensa and Promobe announce that they have signed an asset deal for the sale of the Darwin II building.



Accessibility



Darwin II benefits from easy access by car (motorway exit and P+R parking less than 5 minutes away) and excellent access to public transport. The upcoming arrival of the tramway with a stop within short walking distance will further increase the attractiveness of the area (early 2024).



Luxembourg



As the world leader in cross-border fund distribution, the second largest investment fund centre in the world and the largest in Europe, Luxembourg has been able to benefit from the arrival of many major financial institutions, which contributes to the countrys economic attractiveness. Therefore, Luxembourg offers very good investment opportunities.



Cloche dOr district



The building is ideally located in the popular Cloche dOr district, a district inspired by the concept of the  hour city, which brings together in one place all the elements for a modern and harmonious life.



This new district development, one of the fastest in the country, brings together remarkable mixed architectural buildings and modern infrastructures : local shops (grocery shops, restaurants, etc.), a shopping centre, a medical centre, as well as a Kieser training centre and the largest park in Luxembourg (more than 12ha), which has been delivered in June 2023.



Currently, some 25,000 people live, study, work or play in this new district. By 2035, there will be more than 45,000 people.



The Cloche dOr district has been awarded DGNB Platinum* certification.



The Cloche dOr development is a joint-venture between developers Promobe and Nextensa.



*The DGNB system is based on the three core areas of sustainability, namely ecology, economy and socio-cultural issues, which are equally weighted in the assessment. The DGNB system assesses location as well as technical and procedural quality in a holistic approach. The performance of these qualities can be assessed by means of certification criteria. These are tailored to different types of use and can be applied to new buildings, existing buildings, renovations and buildings in use.





The developers



Promobe is a major player in real estate development in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.



Nextensa is a mixed real estate investor and developer with activities focused on offices, retail and residential projects in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Belgium and Austria.



For more information



NEXTENSA



Tim Rens - Chief Financial Officer



+32 2 882 10 08  investor.relations@nextensa.eu



PROMOBE



Media Relations : Laurence Brix  Group Marketing & Communication Manager



+352 621 892 100 - laurence.brix@promobe.lu



GROSSFELD (joint venture between Nextensa and Promobe)



Investor Relations : Patrick Labey - Manager



+352 248393-1 - patrick.labey@grossfeld.lu











Attachment
BALTIMORE, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman participated in multiple events and panels at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations 52nd Annual Legislative Conference to discuss how the SBA and Biden-Harris Administration are promoting equity across the small business landscape and supporting Black entrepreneurs.

Before the start of the conference, Administrator Guzman joined Axios reporter Eugene Scott for a fireside chat to unpack the unique challenges facing minority-owned small businesses, highlight how the SBA is prioritizing equity across SBA programs, and discuss outreach to Black communities to increase awareness of SBA opportunities.

Last Thursday, Administrator Guzman participated in a Procurement Forum where she further discussed how the SBA has significantly increased opportunities for Black-owned small businesses in government contracting and is on track to meet the Biden-Harris Administrations goal of 15% of prime government contracts going to small disadvantaged businesses by 2025.

Later in the day, she joined Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford (NV-04) at a press conference to announce that the SBA has achieved record lending rates to Black-owned small businesses under the Biden-Harris Administration. Since 2020, the number of loans, total loan dollars, and overall share of loans going to Black-owned businesses have all more than doubled since 2020.

On Friday, Administrator Guzman joined Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) for a panel to discuss the small business impacts of the SCOTUS decision on affirmative action. During the panel, she discussed how the Ultima Servs. Corp. v. Dept of Ag. court case has impacted the SBAs 8(a) business development program and what guidance the SBA is offering 8(a) participant firms in light of a recent injunction.

For follow-up interview requests for Administrator Guzman, please contact Rebecca Galanti at rebecca.galanti@sba.gov.

###





About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Charenton-le-Pont, 26th October 2023

Q3 2023 revenues

MBWS posts 3rd quarter decline (down 6.1% versus 2022) compared to last years strong performance in France and in the face of tough competition,

particularly on the international markets

Nine-month 2023 revenues stands at 144.2m, up 6.9%1 versus 2022

France: third-quarter sales down 4.2% versus 2022 amid a confirmed decline in the spirits market and by unfavourable comparison with 2022 - Nine-month 2023 revenues up 2.0% In the off-trade, despite the price increases applied this year, sales of strategic brands declined. This came on the back of a high comparison base in 2022, during which the Group cut back on promotional expenditure and benefited from purchase gains among consumers, following numerous shortages of products in the same price positioning; The on-trade sector posted higher sales for the quarter, against a lower 2022 comparative base, as a result of stockpiling by distributors at the end of June 2022.

International: slowdown in the quarter (down 7.6%) with widening regional disparities - Nine-month 2023 revenues up 10.9% Slower sales growth in Europe than in the first half of 2023, with continued significant growth in Lithuania and Bulgaria and their export zones, but a cyclical downturn in Spain and a moderate recovery in the UK market; Further sharp decline in the United States in a challenging market environment marked by falling depletions and inventory destocking by our importer; Persisting sluggish environment in Asia Pacific.

Price increases applied in 2023 across almost all Group markets in an attempt to offset soaring input costs since 2022 are impacting consumer demand.

Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits (Euronext: MBWS) today announces its unaudited revenues for the period from 1 January to 30 September 2023.

Nine-month 2023 revenues:

m 9M

2022 LFL change Currency

impact 9M

2023 LFL change

(excl. currency

impact) Reported

growth (incl.

currency

impact) France 60.4 1.2 - 61.6 +2.0% +2.0% International 74.6 8.1 -0.1 82.6 +10.9% +10.8% TOTAL MBWS GROUP 135.0 9.3 -0.1 144.2 +6.9% +6.8%

Q3 2023 revenues

m Q3



2022 LFL change Currency

impact Q3



2023 LFL change

(excl. currency

impact) Reported

growth (incl.

currency

impact) France 20.3 -0.8 - 19.5 -4.2% -4.2% International 28.2 -2.1 -0.1 25.9 -7.6% -8.1% TOTAL MBWS GROUP 48.5 -3.0 -0.1 45.4 -6.1% -6.4%

France cluster

Amid a continuing slowdown in the spirits market in France, mainly in off-trade, France Cluster sales, at 19.5m, were down 4.2% in Q3 2023 versus the previous year, which was marked by lower promotional pressure and out of stock of products in the same price range as our brands. However, nine-month 2023 sales were up 2.0% at 61.6m.

All the spirits market is affected, particularly the 12-year blended Scotch whisky category in off-trade, down 0.9% in terms of sales revenue and down 4.9%2 in volume, with impacts particularly the William Peel brand. The other strategic brands, Sobieski, Marie Brizard and San Jose, were also down over the quarter. Only sales of the Berger brand posted very modest growth, driven by a period of promotional activity and stock shortage among certain competitors. In addition, the context is somewhat unsettled for the business in off-trade, with some legislative changes relating to annual negotiation timing periods coming soon.

The on-trade sector reported a 13.9% rise in revenues for the third quarter across all strategic brands, compared with a weak third quarter in 2022 impacted by early inventory build-up by distributors at the end of H1 2022.

International cluster

International cluster sales amounted to 25.9m in Q3 2023, down 7.6% versus Q3 2022. Revenues for the nine months ended 30 September 2023 amounted to 82.6m, up 10.9% versus 2022 at constant exchange rates.

Spain posted an 11.1% fall in third quarter sales versus 2022 and a 19.0% increase in nine-month sales, impacted by a cyclical downturn in industrial subcontracting services after a brisk third quarter 2022 which enabled the company to make up the delay caused by shortages of raw materials in the first half of 2022. Market performance among strategic brands was mixed.

In Western European export markets, revenues fell 16.5% in Q3, reflecting poor sales performances in all markets except Benelux and the UK, where the Group is benefiting from new listings for its brands, notably Sobieski. The Africa region saw a sharp decline over the quarter.

Lithuania posted a 15.0% rise in Q3 revenues and a 29.3% increase in nine-month revenues versus 2022, driven by the export business and, in particular, growth in sales to the Ukrainian market. Domestic sales were down compared with Q3 2022, impacted by unfavourable market conditions for the industrial services business.

In Bulgaria, revenues continued to grow strongly in Q3 2023 (up 39.8% versus 2022) after a buoyant first half (up 37.1% versus H1 2022), with sales still driven by export markets (industrial subcontracting in particular) and significant price increases in H1 2023, which nonetheless led to price sensitivity in the wine category.

Revenues in Scandinavia were down 23.9% in Q3 2023 after a strong performance in Q3 2022 amid the continuing sharp upswing in business following the early 2022 lifting of health restrictions. The decline in sales also reflects demand volume elasticity in the face of price hikes, the restructuring of certain distributors in the sector and a number of on-trade delistings due to greater concentration among competitors and the resulting tightening of market conditions. However, Gautier sales held up well.

In Eastern European export markets, Q3 2023 and nine-month sales in Poland continued to fall short of 2022 levels, which were boosted by stock-building of the newly launched Gautier brand. Moreover, the spirits market in Poland has followed a downward trend in 2023 to date across all categories.

In the United States, after a slight upturn in revenues in Q2 2023, the third quarter saw a further fall in sales (down 46.8%). This is linked to the inventory destocking policy pursued by the local distributor and a low depletion rate following difficulties caused by the change in some routes to market in key states. In addition, operational, logistical and commercial difficulties impacted the performance of our brands, particularly Sobieski and Gautier. However, the Marie Brizard brand performed well, up 18%.

In Brazil, in contrast to the first two quarters, Q3 2023 revenues were down 15.2% (up 22.3% over the first nine months versus 2022), impacted mainly by shortages of imported brands and a squeeze on purchasing power linked to the non-renewal of government support programmes. The strong performance by local brands, up 11%, and the continuation of a rigorous sales and pricing policy over 2023 only partly succeeded in offsetting this decline.

In the Americas export region, revenues continued to decline significantly in Canada in Q3 2023, again due to the highly competitive vodka segment and continuing decline in the cognac category, despite a highly respectable performance by the Marie Brizard brand.

Lastly, Asia Pacific saw a sharp decline in Q3 2023, particularly in Australia, South Korea and Japan, although modest sales in Taiwan continued to grow steadily.

Outlook

The first half of 2023 demonstrated the overall resilience of the Group in the face of the challenges of availability and significant price rises resulting from the persistent increases in input costs at the beginning of 2023. The decline in sales in Q3 2023 and the recent negative trend over the last few months are in line with the cautious comments made in the last quarterly press releases for 2023.

It should be remembered that, at this stage, the price increases designed to cushion the rise in input costs since 2022 only partly offset them, leading to pressure on margins despite these efforts.

However, in most markets (both in France and internationally), the sharp rises in raw material and energy prices in 2022 and 2023 and resulting increases in consumer goods prices in general (including Group products impacted by the aforementioned price rises) have led to changes in consumer purchasing patterns, resulting in a gradual reduction in demand, to a greater or lesser extent depending on the geographical regions.

The Group continues to closely monitor these changes in consumer demand in response to the prioritisation of their purchases and, despite these persistent challenges, is committed to staying flexible and focused on the operational direction. To this end, the Group will leverage its diversified business portfolio and broad geographical footprint in order to deliver a strong and steady performance, as demonstrated this year (e.g. growth in Europe vs. challenges in the US, development of industrial services vs. market slowdown affecting certain strategic categories). The Group is committed to expanding this diversity.

The current sluggishness of international growth, which remains one of the Groups development priorities, is compounded by a French market that is increasingly mature, concentrated and highly focused on purchasing power. Against this backdrop, the Group remains cautious regarding the short to medium-term business outlook.

Financial calendar

Q4 and full-year 2023 revenues: 15 February 2024









Contact Relations Investisseurs et Actionnaires

Groupe MBWS

Emilie Drexler

emilie.drexler@mbws.com

Tel : +33 1 43 91 62 40



Contact Presse

Image Sept

Claire Doligez - Laurence Maury

cdoligez@image7.fr  lmaury@image7.fr

Tel : +33 1 53 70 74 70

A propos de Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits

Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits est un Groupe de vins et spiritueux implante en Europe et aux Etats-Unis. Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits se distingue par son savoir-faire, combinaison de marques a la longue tradition et dun esprit resolument tourne vers linnovation. Depuis la naissance de la Maison Marie Brizard en 1755, le Groupe Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits a su developper ses marques dans la modernite tout en respectant leurs origines. Lengagement de Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits est doffrir a ses clients des marques de confiance, audacieuses et pleines de saveurs et dexperiences. Le Groupe dispose aujourdhui dun riche portefeuille de marques leaders sur leurs segments de marche, et notamment William Peel, Sobieski, Marie Brizard, Cognac Gautier et San Jose.

Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits est cote sur le compartiment B dEuronext Paris (FR0000060873 - MBWS) et fait partie de lindice EnterNext PEA-PME 150.

1 All revenue growth figures reported herein are at constant exchange rates and consolidation scope, unless otherwise stated.

2 Source: IRI Aggregate Current P10 2023 data

Attachment
San Francisco, CA, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to official reports, Substance Exchange (SubstanceX) has launched its final round of closed testing before its mainnet goes live. The official launch appears to be just around the corner.

Substance Exchange is an emerging decentralized derivatives trading platform, with a mission to fully transition user trading behavior to a decentralized model. Previously, SubstanceX announced its integration with Arbitrum, accounting for over 30% of interactions during Arbitrum's testnet phase, with 36,000 addresses participating.



The crypto market has been warming up recently, with continual surges of interest in new sectors and projects. Compared to these transient trends, the on-chain derivatives sector is poised for substantial growth.



Data from CoinGecko reveals that in Q2 2023, the ratio of spot trading to derivatives trading on centralized exchanges (CEX) was 1:5. Meanwhile, the same ratio on decentralized exchanges (DEX) was 3:1. With the dual forces of off-chain to on-chain trading volume shift and the rational development of on-chain trading structures, the on-chain derivatives sector is poised to explode in the next bullish market phase.

Q2 2023 Spot Trading Volume



(billion USD) Derivatives Trading Volume (billion USD) Spot vs. Derivatives Trading Volume Ratio Top 10 CEX 1,420 7,000 1 : 4.9 Top 6 DEX 155 87.8 1.76 : 1 Binance 780 3,570 1 : 4.6 UNI 99 1.9 : 1 DYDX 51.6







*Data Source: CoinGecko*

As a pioneer in the derivatives DEX space, SubstanceX didn't opt for a simple fork approach. Instead, after eight months of development, they have significantly optimized their products and mechanisms, laying out a comprehensive three-year expansion plan.



Firstly, for derivatives, the precision and timeliness of price acquisition are paramount. SubstanceX has integrated six price feeds from both on-chain and off-chain sources, filtering out anomalies and calculating a fair price, with final quotes provided in milliseconds.



Furthermore, SubstanceX streamlined the liquidation process. This not only reduces risk exposure, decreasing the overall risk ratio, but also simplifies the user experience.

Additionally, SubstanceX has introduced more rational and flexible fee and parameter designs. This includes waiving the Borrowing Fee for mainstream tokens, reducing trading and holding losses for users; implementing a Funding Fee, which naturally balances the long-short ratio, stabilizing the volatility of LPs; and offering flexible leverage multiples and fee adjustments for rapid deployment of new market hotspots.

Beyond these enhancements, SubstanceX has also pioneered product innovations, including Simple Options and the Strategy Market. Simple Options allow users to speculate on asset price movements, providing a means to limit potential losses, with returns reaching up to 20x.



The Strategy Market is an on-chain strategic sector introduced by SubstanceX, encompassing on-chain copy trading, open funds, and smart strategy plans. This offers users a variety of trading strategy options, facilitates efficient strategy configurations, and optimizes asset utilization. Top traders can also manage their open funds here, earning additional income.



While many teams are betting on the on-chain derivatives track, few, like SubstanceX, have eschewed the fork approach to meticulously develop and refine their offerings. Roger, the founder of SubstanceX, believes that while simple forks might save time and development costs, considering the decade-long refinement of centralized systems, on-chain derivatives are still nascent.



He opines that a platform built to stand the test of time must think long-term, prepared for iterations over the next three, five, or even ten years. Thus, SubstanceX retained mature and long-validated components like stake and transaction-related security parts. However, they have conducted independent R&D to enhance user experience and add features, ensuring a solid foundation for future growth.



Roger confidently states, "Three months post-launch, SubstanceX will stand out, distinctly different from its competitors. We operate in a league of our own."



SubstanceX's core team has an average industry experience of over six years, with most hailing from major centralized exchanges. Roger himself was once the CEO of an exchange. With profound insights into trading, SubstanceX embodies their commitment to decentralization.



Decentralization is the very ethos of the crypto world. However, most trading activities still predominantly occur in centralized environments. Encouragingly, numerous teams, including SubstanceX, are tirelessly working to shift trading behaviors toward a more decentralized model.



It's reported that earlier this year, SubstanceX successfully secured seed round funding from institutions and individuals like LD and the Avalanche Co-Founder. With the forthcoming mainnet launch, they'll be rolling out a series of promotional events, including airdrops, trading competitions, and generous commissions. This initiative is certainly one to keep an eye on.
Lawrenceville, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lawrenceville, Georgia -

Anthony Wimpey Plumbing, a premier plumbing service provider in Lawrenceville, GA, is witnessing a surge in demand for their top-notch leak detection solutions. As a locally owned plumbing business in Gwinnett County, the company encourages homeowners to tackle leaky pipes promptly instead of neglecting the issue.

Regular maintenance and appropriate care of residential plumbing systems are crucial in preventing extensive damage and expensive repairs. Early leak detection not only averts significant damage but also minimizes homeowners' environmental impact. With a growing number of homeowners requiring leak detection assistance, Anthony Wimpey Plumbing emphasizes four primary complications arising from unaddressed leaks:

1. Escalating water bills, potentially amounting to thousands per month

2. Squandered water, adversely affecting the environment and conservation initiatives

3. Interior water damage, resulting in mold growth and associated health concerns

4. Exterior water damage, which is both unsightly and costly to repair

Homeowners can check for leaks in the home. Check the water meter. Do not use any water for two hours. Then recheck the water meter. There is most likely a leak if the meter fluctuates in any way. A drop of food coloring in the toilet tank can help find leaks. After 10 minutes, if any color appears in the bowl, there is a leak. Flush the toilet immediately after testing to prevent staining the tank.

There are some things homeowners can do to stop leaks. Some leaky showerheads need pipe tape to tighten the connection between the showerhead and the pipe stem. Teflon tape, often known as pipe tape, is widely available at hardware stores, is simple to use, and is effective in stopping leaks. Also, check faucet gaskets and replace any that appear to leak.

In the early stages, seeking help from a professional Lawrenceville plumber can lead to considerable long-term savings. Leak detection and repair contribute to substantial cost reductions, damage prevention, and environmental improvements.

Dale Wimpey, the owner of Anthony Wimpey Plumbing, shared his thoughts on the importance of addressing leaks: "Dealing with leaks promptly not only saves homeowners money but also helps prevent water damage inside and outside your home. Prompt leak detection and repair is essential."

About Anthony Wimpey Plumbing - Lawrenceville:

With over 30 years of experience in the Lawrenceville area, Anthony Wimpey Plumbing is a trusted local plumbing company specializing in leak detection, leak repair, and a wide range of plumbing services. They proudly serve Lawrenceville, Buford, Suwanee, Duluth, Johns Creek, Norcross, Snellville, and the surrounding regions. Their guiding principle is clear: "If Water Runs Through It, Our Plumbers Can Fix It."

Contact Anthony Wimpey Plumbing - Lawrenceville:

Dale Wimpey

4850 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Ste 209-168

Lawrenceville, GA 30044

Phone: (770) 415-8133

Email: anthonywimpeyplumbing@gmail.com

Website: https://www.anthonywimpeyplumbing.com

###

For more information about Anthony Wimpey Plumbing - Lawrenceville, contact the company here:



Anthony Wimpey Plumbing - Lawrenceville

Dale Wimpey

(770) 415-8133

anthonywimpeyplumbing@gmail.com

4850 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Ste 209-168

Lawrenceville, GA 30044
New York, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) celebrates the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of AGAMREE (vamorolone), a structurally unique steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to treat children and adolescents living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This multi-functional drug shows potent inhibition of pro-inflammatory NFkB pathways via high-affinity binding to the glucocorticoid receptor, high-affinity antagonism for the mineralocorticoid receptor, and membrane stabilization properties. This novel therapy, supported in part by MDA Venture Philanthropy, demonstrates similar efficacy to traditional corticosteroids with reduced negative downstream impacts or side effects. Vamorolone will be made available in the United States by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals.

"Corticosteroids have been a first line treatment for DMD for many years but their utility has always been limited by the side effect profile, which includes weight gain, short stature, and decreased bone density among others. The approval of AGAMREE (vamorolone) provides people living with Duchenne, and their families, a powerful tool to treat the disease, while limiting some negative side effects associated with corticosteroids, said Sharon Hesterlee, Ph.D., Chief Research Officer, MDA. MDA is extremely proud to have been involved with vamorolone since its inception. It was one of the earliest investments to be made by our venture philanthropy arm and we are gratified to see that paying off in the form of a viable new therapy for Duchenne patients and the community.

A co-founder of ReveraGen BioPharma, the company that originally developed the treatment, is Eric Hoffman, PhD, who started his career as an MDA-support post-doc working with Louis Kunkel, Ph.D. on the initial discovery of the degenerative DMD gene in the 1980s. Hoffman cites the success of achieving FDA approval to the robust design of the clinical trials showing key differentiators in the significance of AGAMREE (vamorolone).

Muscular Dystrophy Association has been invested in this treatment since the beginning and they truly made the program possible, said Eric Hoffman, Ph.D., Associate Dean, Research and Research Development; Professor, Pharmaceutical Services at Binghamton University. The main concern was getting an effective treatment to children as quickly as possible. This was truly a community effort and getting a multitude perspectives and feedback from MDA and others helped make this a reality for so many families.

For Neekeesha and Jay Griffin of Harrisburg, North Carolina, the approval marks the culmination of over six years of experience with vamorolone. Their now 14-year-old son Franklin was the first boy enrolled in the US clinical trial for the treatment back in 2016, and he has remained on the therapy after the trial through an expanded access program. Vamorolone has already had significant impacts on families, including yielding positive results for the Griffin family that receive multidisciplinary care at the MDA Care Center at Duke University.

My son was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and he was the first person dosed with vamorolone right before his 7th birthday. Time wasnt our best friend, and we were willing to try this treatment because of the care of Dr. Smith [Edward Smith, M.D.] and the support MDA showed us, said Jay Griffin, MDA family member. This approval means everything to all the kids that wouldnt otherwise have alternative options. Our son hasnt seen any of the typical side effects that come with other steroids so were sticking with it.

Edward Smith, M.D., was most recently MDA Co-Director of the MDA Care Center at Duke University Medical Center where he started the pediatric neuromuscular clinic in 2007 through 2023. He is now Adjunct Professor of Pediatrics at Duke University Medical Center and Medical Director and Principal Investigator at Rare Disease Research-NC, LLC. Having a novel steroid available that provides the benefits of current steroid therapy but with fewer side effects is a big step forward in treatment options. You can really see the difference with AGAMREE (vamorolone). Boys are taller and improved bone health may help them avoid painful fractures that can lead to even earlier loss of ambulation, said Dr. Smith.

A treatment like AGAMREE is critical and a welcome steroid alternative to improving the lives and conditions of so many of our patients living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, said Barry Byrne, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Advisor, MDA and the Associate Chair of Pediatrics and Director of the Powell Gene Therapy Center at the University of Florida. The success of the clinical trials gives us another welcome alternative for treatment, and we look forward to getting this to the community.

Muscular Dystrophy Associations funding in Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Since its inception, MDA has invested almost $227 million in DMD/BMD research. For more information, please visit MDA research.

About Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare and progressive genetic muscle disease caused by the lack of a critical membrane-stabilizing protein called dystrophin, which results in muscle degeneration and weakness. DMD symptom onset is in early childhood, usually between ages 2 and 3. The disease primarily affects boys, but in rare cases it can affect girls. In Europe and North America, the prevalence of DMD is approximately 6 per 100,000 individuals. Doctors often diagnose the disease between ages 3 and 6 when children show early signs of significant muscle weakness, such as delayed ability to sit, stand, or walk and difficulties learning to speak. Over time, DMD becomes fatal as muscle degeneration disrupts lung and heart function.

There is no cure for DMD, however, lifespans have been extended and quality of life has been improved for many through physical therapy and medications to address certain symptoms. With the latest approval, AGAMREE becomes a new therapeutic option for people living with this rare form of muscular dystrophy.

Clinical trials support approval of AGAMREE (vamorolone)

FDAs approval of AGAMREE was based on the data from the pivotal Phase 2b VISION-DMD study as supplemented with safety information collected from three open-label studies, including extension studies. In these trials, AGAMREE was administered at doses ranging from 2 to 6 mg/kg/day, extending for a period of up to 48 months. Compared with current standard-of-care corticosteroids, this novel corticosteroid treatment exhibited comparable efficacy, with data suggesting a reduction in adverse events, notably related to bone health, growth trajectory, and behavior.

MDA Resource Center

The neuromuscular community may contact the MDA Resource Center for resources and support by phone at 1-833-ASK-MDA1 (1-833-275-6321) or by email at ResourceCenter@mdausa.org.

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
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nevada Zinc Corporation (Nevada Zinc or the Company) (TSX-V: NZN) announces that it has decided, at this time, to terminate the non-brokered private placement (the Offering), disclosed in the Companys news releases dated August 23, 2023 and August 30, 2023, and not to proceed to close a second tranche. The Boards decision to terminate the Offering is the result of the Companys current review of several financing options and the need for additional time to assess and pursue the financing structure which is optimal for the Company. Further announcements will be made in due course.



The first tranche of the Offering, disclosed by the Company on August 30, 2023, consisted of the issuance of 1,750,000 units (the Units) at a price of $0.04 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of $70,000. Each Unit consisted of one (1) common share of the Company (Common Share) and one (1) Common Share purchase warrant (Warrant). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share at a price of $0.10 for a period of eighteen (18) months from the date of issuance. Under applicable securities legislation and the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the securities issued in the private placement are subject to a four-month hold period, expiring on December 31, 2023. Completion of the Offering is subject to the receipt of all regulatory approvals, including final approval of the TSXV.

Directors and officers of the Company subscribed for all of the Units issued in the Offering. The participation of such directors and officers in the Offering constitutes a related party transaction for the purposes of Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (MI 61-101). The Company is relying on the exemption from the requirements to obtain a formal evaluation and minority shareholder approval in connection with the insider participation in reliance on sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as neither the fair market value of the securities to be issued, nor the fair market value of the consideration for the securities to be issued will exceed 25% of the Companys market capitalization as calculated in accordance with MI 61-101.

About Nevada Zinc

Nevada Zinc is a development stage company focused, along with strategic partners, on the production of zinc-based products including zinc oxide and zinc based micro nutrient fertilizers from its Lone Mountain zinc deposit in Nevada. The Company will be completing project studies for the remainder of 2023 and 2024 in addition to concurrently beginning the permitting process for a zinc oxide production plant adjacent to the Lone Mountain deposit.

Additional information about the Company is available on the Companys website: www.nevadazinc.com and on the Companys SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

For further information please contact:

Mike Wilson, President & CEO

T: 416-574-9075

Email: wilson.h.mike@gmail.com

Don Christie, CFO

T: 416-409-8441

Email: don@nevadazinc.com

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding regulatory approvals, timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, obligations under existing and future agreements, share issuances and ownership positions, expected returns and profits from application of unproven chemical processes to the Companys mineral projects, partnerships and joint ventures, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results relating to, among other things, subsequent tranches for ongoing financings, regulatory approvals, expected proceeds from financings, results of exploration, project development, reclamation and capital costs of the Company's mineral properties, and the Company's financial condition and prospects, could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. These and other factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. The Company will be required to complete a PEA and pre-feasibility study to confirm the projects zinc oxide production flowsheet and project economics. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that may be made from time to time by the Company or on its behalf, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) has reviewed or accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.
Centennial, Colo., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The CommonSpirit Health Colorado/Kansas/Utah Division is pleased to announce St. Anthony and St. Anthony North hospitals achieved the American Nurses Credentialing Centers (ANCC) Magnet Recognition for Nursing Excellence. With this achievement, St. Anthony and St. Anthony North join the Magnet community - a distinguished group of health care organizations and hospitals that demonstrate excellence in nursing services. Less than 6% of U.S. hospitals receive this recognition.

We have always believed that we employ the very best nurses in the profession and receiving Magnet Recognition is a reflection of our nursing professionalism, teamwork and dedication to providing compassionate, safe patient care in our hospitals and the region, said Brenda Simpson, DNP, RN, CENP, Senior Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for the CommonSpirit Colorado/Kansas/Utah Division.

To achieve Magnet Recognition, St. Anthony and St. Anthony North hospitals had to pass a rigorous and lengthy process that ensures quality nursing leadership, coordination and collaboration across specialties, as well as a process for measuring and improving the quality and delivery of care.

This is truly an outstanding achievement and reenforces our commitment to our vision of a healthier future for all  inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by our humanity, said Simpson. I am proud to have St. Anthony and St. Anthony North hospitals join our Penrose and St. Francis hospitals in earning this elite designation and am grateful to our dedicated staff who make achievements like these possible.

Both hospitals received a call from the Commission on Magnet congratulating them on their designations this week. To watch and download the videos that captured the announcements, please click here for St. Anthony Hospital and here for St. Anthony North Hospital.

###

About CommonSpirit

CommonSpirit Health is a nonprofit, Catholic health system dedicated to advancing health for all people. It was created in February 2019 by Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health. The Colorado/Kansas/Utah Division includes 20 hospitals, 240 physician practices and clinics, emergency and urgent care centers, home care and hospice services, and Flight For Life Colorado. With its national office in Chicago and a team of over 175,000 employees and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, CommonSpirit operates 142 hospitals and more than 2,200 care sites across 24 states. In FY 2022, CommonSpirit had revenues of $33.9 billion and provided $4.9 billion in charity care, community benefit, and unreimbursed government programs. Learn more at www.commonspirit.org.

About ANCCs Magnet Recognition Program

The Magnet Recognition Program  administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the largest and most prominent nurses credentialing organization in the world  identifies health care organizations that provide the very best in nursing care and professionalism in nursing practice. The Magnet Recognition Program is the highest national honor for nursing excellence and provides consumers with the ultimate benchmark for measuring quality of care. For more information about the Magnet Recognition Program and current statistics, visit www.nursecredentialing.org/magnet.
Vancouver, October 26, 2023 - ALX Resources Corp. (TSXV: AL) (FSE: 6LLN) (OTC: ALXEF) ("ALX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the remobilization of its lithium exploration crew to the Volta sub-project area ("Volta") of the Hydra Lithium Project ("Hydra") located in the Eeyou Istchee-James Bay region of Quebec, Canada. Hydra is the subject of a 50%-50% joint venture between ALX and Forrestania Resources Limited of West Perth, Australia ("Forrestania", ASX: FRS) formed to explore for lithium-cesium-tantalum ("LCT") bearing pegmatites, with ALX as operator.

2023 Hydra Exploration Summary

Prospecting at Hydra has been subjected to several delays and restrictions since work began in early June 2023. The initial program was suspended after only four days due to forest fires and could not be restarted until early September 2023. The second phase of exploration was also suspended on September 15, 2023 due to the onset of moose hunting season by the Cree Nation of Wemindji, which lasted until October 15, 2023.

With winter weather fast approaching, ALX made the decision to return to the James Bay region in the time remaining, since Volta had received only limited exploration in 2022 and was not accessible to ALX this season due to a lack of accommodations for its geological personnel.

In early September 2023, ALX carried out an airborne Light Detection And Ranging ("LiDAR") and orthophoto survey at Volta to improve the quality of the imagery used for pegmatite exploration. LiDAR can provide detailed and high-resolution topographical information from the analysis of laser pulses emitted from the sensor and the subsequent return signal. A sample of the better topographical definition is observed in the images below: (Left) Orthophoto aerial view of Volta and (Right) LiDAR image of the same scene with vegetation removed, where fault structures are clearly visible.





Figure 1



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3046/185289_graphic.jpg

The helicopter-assisted prospecting work at Volta is aided by remote sensing studies optimized for pegmatite detection. Surface mapping and sampling is planned to continue for up to a week, or for as long as weather conditions allow. Results will be released upon their receipt, compilation and interpretation.

About Hydra

Hydra consists of eight sub-projects totaling 29,262 hectares (72,306 acres) known as Volta (4,751 ha.), Echo (5,566 ha.), Nike (2,462 ha.), Sprite (3,437 ha.), Cobra (4,249 ha.), Viper (1,280 ha.), Python East (3,218 ha.) and Python West (4,298 ha.), located within a fertile lithium exploration district that hosts the James Bay, Rose, Whabouchi and Corvette lithium deposits, and numerous other lithium showings.

The Hydra sub-projects were originally selected for staking based upon the presence of historical lithium, cesium and tantalum lake sediment anomalies and by a review of public-domain geological mapping. The application of remote sensing and artificial intelligence studies for pegmatite detection is ongoing to prioritize target definition for surface prospecting.

ALX - Forrestania lithium projects in the James Bay Region, Sept. 2023

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3046/185289_a81aeb5074d6baa9_003full.jpg

To view maps and more information on Hydra, visit our website at: https://alxresources.com/hydra-lithium/

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Robert Campbell, P.Geo., a consultant to ALX, who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits or occurrences on adjacent or nearby properties are not indicative of mineral deposits or occurrences on the Company's properties.

About ALX

ALX is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "AL", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "6LLN" and in the United States OTC market under the symbol "ALXEF".

ALX's mandate is to provide shareholders with multiple opportunities for discovery by exploring a portfolio of prospective mineral properties in Canada, which include lithium, uranium, nickel-copper-cobalt and gold projects. The Company uses the latest exploration technologies and holds interests in over 220,000 hectares of prospective lands in Saskatchewan, a stable jurisdiction that hosts the highest-grade uranium mines in the world, a producing gold mine, and production from base metals mines, both current and historical.

ALX owns a 50% interest in eight lithium exploration properties staked in 2022-2023 collectively known as the Hydra Lithium Project, located in the James Bay region of northern Quebec, Canada, a 100% interest in the Anchor Lithium Project in Nova Scotia, Canada, and 100% interests in the Crystal Lithium Project and the Reindeer Lithium Project, both located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada.

ALX's uranium holdings in northern Saskatchewan include 100% interests in the Gibbons Creek Uranium Project, the Sabre Uranium Project, the Bradley Uranium Project, and the Javelin and McKenzie Lake Uranium Projects, a 40% interest in the Black Lake Uranium Project (a joint venture with Uranium Energy Corp. and Orano Canada Inc.), and a 20% interest in the Hook-Carter Uranium Project, located within the uranium-rich Patterson Lake Corridor with Denison Mines Corp. (80% interest) as operator of exploration since 2016.

ALX also owns 100% interests in the Firebird Nickel Project (now under option to Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Inc., who can earn up to an 80% interest), the Flying Vee Nickel/Gold and Sceptre Gold projects, and can earn up to an 80% interest in the Alligator Lake Gold Project, all located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. ALX owns, or can earn, up to 100% interests in the Electra Nickel Project and the Cannon Copper Project located in historic mining districts of Ontario, Canada, the Vixen Gold Project (now under option to First Mining Gold Corp., who can earn up to a 100% interest in two stages), and in the Draco VMS Project in Norway.

For more information about the Company, please visit the ALX corporate website at www.alxresources.com or contact Roger Leschuk, Manager, Corporate Communications at: PH: 604.629.0293 or Toll-Free: 866.629.8368, or by email: rleschuk@alxresources.com

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of ALX Resources Corp.

"Warren Stanyer"

Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include: ALX's 2023 joint venture exploration plans at the Hydra Lithium Project, and ALX's ability to continue to expend funds at that project. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include that ALX may not be able to fully finance exploration on our exploration projects, including drilling; our initial findings at our exploration projects may prove to be unworthy of further expenditures; commodity prices may not support further exploration expenditures; exploration programs may be delayed or changed due to any delays experienced in consultation and engagement activities with First Nations communities and local landowners in the region, and the results of such consultations; and economic, competitive, governmental, societal, public health, weather, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and share price. Even if we explore and develop our projects, and even if lithium, uranium, nickel, copper, gold or other metals or minerals are discovered in quantity, ALX's projects may not be commercially viable. Additional risk factors are discussed in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2023, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, we will not update these forward-looking statement risk factors.

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/185289
Toronto, October 26, 2023 - Palamina Corp.'s (TSXV: PA) (OTCQB: PLMNF) equity/royalty partner Winshear Gold Inc. (TSXV: WINS) ("Winshear") has declared a return of capital of CDN$0.25 per share to Winshear shareholders payable December 8, 2023. Palamina holds 13,422,000 common shares and 1,321,000 warrants in Winshear and a 2% NSR on all its projects in Peru. Winshear recently received a net settlement payment from the Tanzanian Government in excess of CDN $25,250,000 over the expropriation of Winshear's SMP gold deposit.

"Palamina intends to exercise it's in-the money warrants in Winshear to hold 14,743,000 shares for a net non-dilutive payout in excess of CDN$3.35M. Both Palamina and Winshear are now well financed to carry out significant drill discovery programs on their flagship Usicayos and Gaban gold projects in the Puno Orogenic Gold Belt in Peru. Both gold projects have the potential to host multi-million ounce gold deposits," commented Andrew Thomson, President of Palamina.

For further details on Winshear's Gaban Gold Project please visit www.winshear.com and for Palamina's Usicayos Gold Project please visit www.palamina.com.

About Palamina Corp.

Palamina has participation in eight gold projects in south-eastern Peru hosted within the Puno Orogenic Gold Belt (POGB). Palamina is advancing the Usicayos gold project through the drill discovery phase. The Company also has rights to the Galena silver-copper project in the Santa Lucia district. Palamina holds an 18.5% equity interest on a partially diluted basis in Winshear Gold Corp. who are advancing the Gaban Gold Project to the drill discovery phase.

Palamina has 71,284,836 shares outstanding and trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol PA and on the OTCQB Venture Market under the symbol PLMNF.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors:

Andrew Thomson, President

Phone: (416) 204-7536 or visit www.palamina.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185313
QUEBEC, Oct. 26, 2023 -- Stelmine Canada (" Stelmine " or " the Company ") (TSXV : STH) is pleased to announce that it will be very active this year at the annual Association de l'Exploration Miniere du Quebec (AEMQ) congress. In addition to participating as an exhibitor, members of the team will also be on stage as speakers and panelists.

Indeed, on Wednesday, November 1st, Friedrich Speidel, Vice-President Exploration, will present a geoscientific update of the most recent gold discovery in northeastern Quebec, in a conference entitled "Style and Genesis of Gold Mineralization on Stelmine's Mercator project, District of Caniapiscau, Quebec". On the same day, Isabelle Proulx, President of the Company, will participate in the "Evolution of Investor Relations" panel.

The XPLOR 2023 conference is a large event attended by all the essential members of the mining industry in Quebec. Stelmine aims to draw attention to its Mercator project which is already generating a lot of interest within the community.

Stelmine is an exploration company focused on gold, who is currently evaluating the potential for lithium and other strategic metals in its newly acquired properties of the Caniapiscau district. The Company holds a total of 1,784 claims, covering 917km2.

Information about the event

The Stelmine team is eagerly expecting you to visit Kiosk #10 at the core shack booth located on the 9th floor of the Westin Montreal Hotel. At 11:10 a.m. in the Ville-Marie room, Isabelle Proulx will be a panelist participating in a debate on investment relations while, Friedrich Speidel will give a talk at 3:20 p.m., in the Geoscience room.

Project Descriptions

Stelmine's flagship project, Mercator, contains orogenic-type gold mineralization associated with mafic rocks and metamorphosed iron formations, characterized by positive magnetic and chargeability anomalies as well as low resistivity. Gold is associated with sulfide mineralization (pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite-lollingite  chalcopyrite  pyrite). To date, the best drill intersections include:

2,62 g/t Au over 17,80m, including 4,87 g/t Au over 5,60m and 27,70 g/t Au over 0,55m (MCT22-008)

1,13 g/t Au over 9,75m, including 3,21 g/t Au over 1,70m (MCT22-003)

These results confirm the continuity at depth of the surface mineralization previously defined by channel samples that provided intercepts up to 2.07 g/t Au over 27.5m and 2.16 g/t Au over 16.0m.

The Courcy project, located approximately 70 km SE of Mercator, contains several mineralized zones along a system of northeast-trending regional faults. Visible gold was identified in quartz-feldspar-biotite-sulfide veins and veinlets, with Stelmine's best drill intercept being 2.86g/t Au over 10.0m, including 5.28 g/t Au over 4.40m in hole STCOU-001. Channel samples yielded values of 0.74 g/t Au over 42.0m, including 1.02 g/t Au over 31m as well as 1.05 g/t Au over 8.4m.

Figure 1: Stelmine projects, northeastern Quebec. To view FIGURES and LOCATION MAP, please click here

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this release has been reviewed and approved by Friedrich Speidel, P.Geo, M.Sc. and Vice President of the company. Mr. Speidel is the qualified person responsible for the scientific and technical information contained in this document according to the standards of National Instrument 43-101.

About Stelmine

Stelmine is a junior mining company engaged in the development of the new Caniapiscau gold district (east of James Bay), in the under-explored eastern part of the Opinaca metasedimentary basin where the geological context features similarities with the Eleonore mine, which is located very close to the contact with the same basin. Stelmine owns 100% of the 1,784 claims or 917 km in this part of northern Quebec, highlighted by the Mercator and Courcy projects.

Forward-looking statements

Cautionary note regarding forward-looking Statements: This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future results-related events. To the extent that any statements in this document contain information that is not historical, then such statements are essentially forward-looking and can often be identified by the use of words such as "considers", "anticipates", "expects", "believes ', 'expects', 'projects', 'plans', 'potential', 'suggests' and 'believes'. Forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties are described in the quarterly and annual reports and in the documents submitted to the securities administration available on the SEDAR+ site. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such statements, which speak only as of the date of this document. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Cautionary Statement

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.

For further information, contact:

Isabelle Proulx, President and CEO

Stelmine Investor Relations:



Tel: 418-626-6333 MarketSmart Communications Inc info@stelmine.com Adrian Sydenham Toll-free: 1-877-261-4466 info@marketsmart.ca

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Vancouver, October 26, 2023 - Atacama Copper Corp. (TSXV: ACOP) ("Atacama Copper" or the "Company") announces that it has signed a binding letter of intent dated October 26, 2023 (the "Letter of Intent") with TCP1 Corporation ("TCP1"), an arm's length private company with mineral properties located in Mexico, relating to a business combination whereby the Company will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of TCP1 in exchange for common shares of the Company (the "Proposed Transaction"). Concurrent with the Proposed Transaction, the Company has entered into an agreement with Cormark Securities Inc. and Stifel Canada as co-lead agents (collectively, the "Agents") for a private placement of subscription receipts (the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of C$0.18 per Subscription Receipt for minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000 (the "Concurrent Financing"), each of which will automatically convert into a common share in the capital of the Company, in connection with the consummation of the Proposed Transaction. Completion of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing are subject to the execution of definitive agreements, obtaining all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Proposed Transaction is expected to constitute a "reverse takeover" of Atacama Copper pursuant to the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") and is subject to the acceptance of TSXV. The Company following the completion of the Proposed Transaction is referred to herein as the "Resulting Issuer" or "Newco".

Highlights of the Transaction:

Creates a diversified exploration and development company with assets in close proximity to established operations in geologically prospective regions of Mexico and Chile.

Resulting Issuer will be led by a team with a proven history and track record of discovery, exploration success, mine building, operations, and community engagement and relations.

Establishes a well-capitalized company supported by a strong shareholder base.

Provides multiple avenues of shareholder value creation as the combined asset base is advanced through focused and generative exploration programs that will support expansion of the mineralized footprint, in addition to early engineering and test work that will support future project optimization.

Establishes a platform for future acquisition and consolidation opportunities in the Americas.

Tim Warman, CEO & Director commented: "The TCP1 assets offer the Company projects that can be immediately drilled and expanded upon in proven mining jurisdictions. The transaction offers an excellent mix of good projects, industry leading investors and potential for future growth. I'm especially excited to have Charlie Ronkos, an incredibly experienced explorationist and the former SVP Exploration of Goldcorp joining the Atacama team. In addition to his long involvement with the TCP1 Mexico assets, he has worked extensively on the El Morro/La Fortuna deposit adjacent to our Placeton and Caballo Muerto projects in Chile."

Charlie Ronkos, Director of TCP1 and incoming EVP Exploration of NewCo commented: "This transaction allows TCP1 shareholders to maintain significant exposure at Cristina and Yecora, while also gaining exposure to two exciting new projects in an area of Chile where I have significant experience. Tim and his team are the right team with the right expertise to de-risk these highly prospective assets in Mexico and Chile. The Concurrent Financing will provide us with the necessary resources to leverage our strong operational track record to deliver value for all of our shareholders. We now look forward to commencing our exploration programs over what will be a very active and exciting 2024 for our stakeholders."

John Graham, Director and President of TCP1 commented: "We would like to thank the shareholders of TCP1 for their continued support from inception to today. We are very excited to partner with an experienced team, with a long track record of shareholder returns, to create value for all shareholders over the long term. We would also like to specifically thank Charlie Ronkos for his partnership throughout the existence of this endeavor and to see his continued involvement in NewCo."

About TCP1

TCP1 is a private mineral exploration company incorporated under the laws of Ontario and is based in Toronto, Ontario. TCP1 in an exploration and development company that owns 100% of the Cristina project located in Chihuahua State, Mexico and 100% of the Yecora project located in Sonora State, Mexico.

The Cristina deposit is an epithermal to mesothermal vein system where the mineralization is predominantly gold and silver, with lesser base metal values. Mineralization is hosted in multiple outcropping quartz veins that are frequently greater than 10 metres in width, and extend for a currently known strike length of up to 5 km. Only one vein, the Guadalupe vein has been drilled to a density sufficient for a resource estimate, leaving considerable potential to add resources in at least four other parallel mineralized vein structures discovered to date. Cristina is similar to other active mines in the region, including Fresnillo's San Julian and La Cienega mines, as well as First Majestic's Tayoltita/San Dimas mine.

The Yecora project is located in the Laramide copper belt that extends from Arizona into northwestern Mexico and consists of multiple tourmaline breccia bodies carrying copper-silver-molybdenum mineralization, and high-grade copper-silver veins. The Yecora deposit is immediately adjacent to the active Minera Alamos Santana gold mine and several other copper and gold deposits that could provide opportunities for regional consolidation.

Atacama Copper and TCP1 intend to provide additional details regarding the Cristina and Yecora projects, including initial estimates of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") compliant mineral resources, in separate news releases in the near-term.

Terms of the Proposed Transaction

Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Letter of Intent, the Company and TCP1 will negotiate and enter into a definitive agreement incorporating the principal terms of the Proposed Transaction as described in the Letter of Intent on or before November 30, 2023 (the "Definitive Agreement"). The Letter of Intent is intended to be superseded by the Definitive Agreement.

Pursuant to the terms of the Proposed Transaction, the holders of the issued and outstanding common shares of TCP1 ("TCP1 Shares") are anticipated to receive approximately 388.89 common shares of Atacama Copper ("ACOP Shares") for each one (1) TCP1 Share held (the "Exchange Ratio"), implying a price of C$70.00 per TCP1 Share based on a deemed price of C$0.18 per ACOP Share. An aggregate of approximately 250.1 million ACOP Shares will be issued to TCP1 shareholders, which includes shares that will be issued in connection with the cashless exercise of certain TCP1 options. All other remaining options that may be outstanding at the time of completing the Proposed Transaction shall be exchanged in accordance with the Exchange Ratio for similar securities to purchase ACOP Shares on substantially the same terms and conditions. The Proposed Transaction will be structured as an arrangement, amalgamation, share exchange or other similar structure based on the advice of the respective advisors of TCP1 and Atacama Copper.

The completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of terms and conditions, including without limitation the following: (a) negotiation and execution of the Definitive Agreement; (b) the parties obtaining all necessary consents, orders, regulatory and shareholder approvals, including the approval of TSXV; (c) TCP1 providing a NI 43-101 compliant report for its material properties; (d) there being no material adverse changes in respect of either the Company or TCP1; (e) closing of the Concurrent Financing; and other standard conditions of closing for a transaction in the nature of the Proposed Transaction. There can be no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be successfully negotiated or entered into or that all of the necessary approvals will be obtained or that all conditions of closing will be satisfied.

The Proposed Transaction will require the approval of the shareholders of the Company pursuant to TSXV policies, which may be obtained by way of the written consent of a majority of shareholders. Atacama Copper and TCP1 are arm's length parties and, accordingly, the Proposed Transaction is not a related party transaction.

Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, it is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will be listed as a Tier 1 mining issuer on the TSXV and it will continue trading under its current name and ticker symbol. Prior to completion of the Concurrent Financing, shareholders of TCP1 will own approximately 87% of the Resulting Issuer and existing shareholders of Atacama Copper will own approximately 13% of the Resulting Issuer on an undiluted basis. After completion of the Concurrent Financing, and assuming minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000 thereunder, shareholders of TCP1 will own approximately 73% of the Resulting Issuer, existing shareholders of Atacama Copper will own approximately 11% of the Resulting Issuer, and subscribers in the Concurrent Financing will own approximately 16% of the Resulting Issuer, on an undiluted basis.

Board of Directors, Management and Insiders

The board of directors of the Resulting Issuer upon completion of the Proposed Transaction will consist of Tim Warman, Charlie Ronkos, Scott Hicks and two additional nominees to be agreed upon by Atacama Copper and TCP1, all subject to the approval of such nominees by the TSXV. The officers of the Resulting Issuer shall consist of Tim Warman (President and CEO), Charlie Ronkos (EVP Exploration) and such other officers to be confirmed in the Definitive Agreement.

Concurrent Financing

Prior to the closing of the Proposed Transaction, Atacama Copper shall complete the Concurrent Financing, and has entered into an engagement letter with Cormark Securities Inc. and Stifel Canada, as co-lead agents, for the private placement of Subscription Receipts at a price of C$0.18 per Subscription Receipt for minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000, each of which will automatically convert into common shares of the Resulting Issuer in connection with the consummation of the Proposed Transaction. The net proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be used to advance exploration programs across the combined portfolio, with particular focus on Cristina and Yecora, and for general corporate purposes.

The gross proceeds of the Concurrent Financing less certain expenses of the Agents (such net amount, the "Escrowed Proceeds") will be placed into escrow and released to the Company, subject the completion or satisfaction of all escrow release conditions, including, among other things, the receipt of all required corporate, shareholder and regulatory approvals in connection with the Proposed Transaction (collectively, the "Escrow Release Conditions") to be set out in a subscription receipt agreement to be entered into on or about the closing date of the Concurrent Financing between the Company, the Agents and an escrow agent (the "Escrow Agent"). Provided that the Escrow Release Conditions are satisfied or waived (where permitted) prior to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on March 31, 2024 (the "Escrow Release Deadline"), the Agents' fees will be released to the Agents from the Escrowed Proceeds, and the balance of the Escrowed Proceeds (less certain expenses of the Escrow Agent) will be released to the Company and the Subscription Receipts shall be automatically converted into the common shares of the Resulting Issuer. In the event that the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by the Escrow Release Deadline, the Escrowed Proceeds will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts and the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled.

The Concurrent Financing is being conducted in all provinces of Canada pursuant to private placement exemptions and in such other jurisdictions as are agreed to by the Company and the Agents. The Concurrent Financing remains subject to the approval of the TSXV.

The securities to be offered in the Concurrent Financing have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Indicative Timeline

Pursuant to the Letter of Intent, the parties have agreed to negotiate the terms and conditions of the Definitive Agreement by November 30, 2023, or such other date as may be mutually agreed by the parties. Subject to satisfying all necessary conditions and receipt of all required approvals, the parties are targeting completion of the Proposed Transaction by late 2023.

Further Information

The parties will provide further details in respect of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing by way of updating press releases as the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing progress.

All information contained in this press release with respect to Atacama and TCP1 (but excluding the terms of the Proposed Transaction) was supplied by the parties respectively, for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, acceptance of TSXV and if applicable pursuant to the requirements of TSXV, disinterested shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative.

Sponsorship of the Proposed Transaction may be required by TSXV unless an exemption or waiver from this requirement is obtained in accordance with the policies of TSXV. The Company intends to apply for an exemption from TSXV's sponsorship requirement.

TSX Venture Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release related to the TCP1 properties has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Charlie Ronkos, MMSA, Chief Operating Officer of TCP1 and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101. The technical information related to the Atacama Copper properties has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Tim Warman, P.Geo., Atacama Copper's CEO and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Atacama Copper Corporation

Atacama Copper is a resource company focusing on acquiring, exploring, and developing base and precious metals properties in in the Americas. It is committed to advancing the exploration and development of its Placeton/Caballo Muerto copper project in Chile while looking to increase its asset portfolio through the acquisition and development of other high-value exploration, development, and production opportunities. Atacama's Placeton/Caballo Muerto project hosts several porphyry copper targets situated between the giant Relincho and El Morro/La Fortuna copper-gold deposits of the Nueva Union joint venture between Teck and Newmont Mining.

Additional Information - Please Contact

For more information, please contact:

Tim Warman

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Atacama Copper Corp.

Email: info@atacamacopper.ca

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the successful completion of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing; the use of proceeds from the Concurrent Financing; the Resulting Issuer's mineral properties; future development plans; and the business and operations of the Resulting Issuer after the Proposed Transaction. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: failure to satisfy or waive all applicable conditions to the completion of the Proposed Transaction (including receipt of all necessary shareholder, stock exchange and regulatory approvals or consents, and the absence of material changes with respect to the parties and their respective businesses); inability to close the Concurrent Financing on the proposed terms or at all, the synergies expected from the Proposed Transaction not being realized; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to Chilean Peso exchange rate); change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties.

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. Atacama Copper disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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 news release.

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/185352
Vancouver, October 26, 2023 - New Energy Metals Corp. (TSXV:ENRG) (OTC:NRGYF) ("New Energy" or the "Company ") is pleased to announce the initiation of exploration activities at the Roslyn Lithium Property (the "Property") in the Georgia Lake Pegmatite Field located 50 km northeast of Nipigon, Ontario. The Property comprises of 8 mining claims (195 cells) covering approximately 4,215 hectares. The Georgia Lake Pegmatite Field is being aggressively explored and developed by Roch Tech Lithium (TSXV:RCK), Imagine Lithium (TSXV:ILI) and Ultra Lithium (TSXV:ULT) (Figure 1). Field crews have mobilized and are conducting mapping, prospecting, and sampling.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 1. Rare-element and lithium pegmatite occurrences of the Georgia Lake Pegmatite Field. Source OGS.

Highlights

During the current phase of exploration, an experienced field team has been deployed to conduct field prospecting activities across the claim block. This process will involve the systematic examination and sampling of the potential fertile granitic pegmatite dykes for lithium and other rare elements. This crucial step will provide valuable insights into the mineralogy and lithium content of the identified pegmatites, aiding in the development of an extensive understanding of the property's lithium exploration potential for further work. Initial scanning of samples will be carried out by a handheld laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), which has recently emerged as a tool for instant geochemical analysis versus traditional laboratory analysis and resultant lag time. The LIBs can measure Li in minerals, rocks, soils, and brines in-situ in the field.

Roslyn Lithium Property

The Georgia Lake Pegmatite Field represents the largest concentration of rare-element mineralization in northwestern Ontario. The 32x105 km field hosts 38 rare-element occurrences and 10 spodumene pegmatite deposits (Breaks et al., 2008). Breaks et al, 2008 discovered 19 additional rare-element occurrences and recommended additional exploration proximal to the fertile Glacier Lake Batholith bodies in contact with metasediments (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Location of the Roslyn Lithium Property along the Glacier Lake Batholith. Source Breaks et al., 2008.

The Property is hosted by a muscovite-bearing granite, an S-type peraluminous fertile parental granite according to Breaks et al., 2003 and in contact with metasediments which make excellent hosts for pegmatites. Numerous faults transect the Property providing excellent pathways for granitic melts and evolving pegmatites (Figure 3). Several white pegmatites with garnet and tourmaline have been documented and mapped on the Property by the OGS in 1970 (Ontario Department of Mines map M2293). These are very good indications of fertile granitic melts.



Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 3. Regional geology of the Roslyn Lithium Property. Source OGS.

"We are thrilled to initiate exploration activities on the Roslyn Lithium Property," said Rishi Kwatra, CEO of New Energy. "The Georgia Lake Pegmatite Field is not confined to its initial 2008 limits. Recent lithium and rare element-bearing pegmatites discovered by Pegmatite One at Frazer Lake, Solstice Gold at its Frazer Lake property, and Forgan Lake by Ultra Lithium provide merit that the entire region within the Quetico Subprovince hosts potential for lithium mineralization. The Roslyn Lithium Property is no exception. "

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Michael Kilbourne, P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. The QP and the Company have not completed sufficient work to verify the historical information on the Roslyn Lithium Property, particularly regarding historical exploration, neighboring companies, and government geological work.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,

New Energy Metals Corp.

Rishi Kwatra

CEO & Director

#610 - 700 West Pender Street

Vancouver, BC V6C 1G8 Canada

Tel: 604-669-9788

www.new-enrg.com

References and Disclosures

Breaks, F.W., Selway, J.B. and Tindle, A.G. 2003. Fertile peraluminous granites and related rare-element mineralization in pegmatites, Superior Province, northwest and northeast Ontario: Operation Treasure Hunt; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6099, 179p.

Breaks, F.W., Selway, J.B. and Tindle, A.G. 2008. The Georgia Lake rare-element pegmatite field and related S-type, peraluminous granites, Quetico Subprovince, north-central Ontario; Ontario Geological Survey, Open File Report 6199, 176p.

About New Energy Metals Corp.

New Energy is a Canadian-based resource company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol ENRG.

The Company has an option to purchase a 100% interest in the Atikokan lithium Project which comprises 3,788 hectares and is located approximately 12 km east of Atikokan, Ontario. The claims straddle the contact between a peraluminous S-type muscovite-bearing granite and metasediments within the Quetico subprovince. The Quetico-Marmion subprovincial boundary lies just 4 km north of the Property.

The Company also has an option to purchase a 100-percent interest in the Roslyn lithium property, covering 4,125hectares located 25 kilometers southeast of the Georgia Lake pegmatite field and 35 kilometers southeast of where Rock Tech Lithium just published a preliminary economic assessment supporting the indicated mineral resource of 10.6 Mt (million tons) grading 0.88 percent lithium oxide and an inferred mineral resource of 4.2 Mt grading 1.0 percent Li2O.

The Company also has an option to purchase a 100-percent interest in the Troitsa copper property covering approximately 7,000 hectares located in the Omineca mining division of British Columbia.

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 on Forward Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things: statements with respect to anticipated exploration program results from exploration activities, the expectation that the Company will enter into agreements to acquire interests in the Property, the anticipated business plans and timing of future activities of the Company and all other statements that are not historical facts, particularly statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance of the Company. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook". Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made based on reasonable estimates and assumptions made by management of the Company at the relevant time in light of its experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that are believed to be appropriate and reasonable in the circumstances. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will not update any such forward-looking statements as a result of new information or if management's beliefs, estimates, assumptions or opinions change, except as required by law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control, which could cause actual results, performance, achievements and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, operating and technical difficulties in connection with mineral exploration and development activities, actual results of exploration activities, including on the Property, the estimation or realization of mineral reserves and mineral resources, the fact that the Company's interest in the Property is an option only and there is no guarantee that such interest, if earned, will be certain, capital expenditures, requirements for additional capital, future prices of lithium, changes in general economic conditions, changes in the financial markets and in the demand and market price for commodities, delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing, title disputes, the inability of the Company to obtain any necessary permits, consents, approvals or authorizations, including approval by the TSX Venture Exchange required for the acquisition of the Properties, the timing and possible outcome of any pending litigation, environmental issues and liabilities, and all other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. The Company cautions that the list of risk factors and uncertainties described in its publicly filed documents on SEDAR is not exhaustive and other factors could materially affect its results. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to consider all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Copyright (c) 2023 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
In 2009,published an article forecasting that by 2020, humans would have computer chips in their brains that could control their computers, smartphones and other devices. Today, many people still might think the idea of microchip implants sounds like science fiction.

But as technology continues to develop, microchipping people doesnt seem that far off. Earlier this year, Elon Musks secretive company, Neuralink, revealed that it is working to implant chips  in a human as soon as this year  and one Tesla driver got her cars valet key implanted into her arm last August (whether or not it actually works is unclear).

Even the two Intel researchers from thearticle, Andrew Chien , a professor of computer science at the University of Chicago and Dean Pomerleau, both say that their predictions werent so far-fetched from the technology we have now. In 2009, Chien acknowledged that there are a lot of things that have to be done first, but I think [a microchip implant] is well within the scope of possibility. In 2020, he points out that its not widespread yet but there are a lot of people trying to make [microchip implants] happen.

Pomerleau, currently a technology consultant for automotive and self-driving car services, also believes that microchipping is still a possibility for the near future. In 2009, Pomerleaus team was simply working to decode concrete nouns, while today the technology can predict which sentence a person might be thinking based upon certain brain frequencies. Progress continues to be made and so I think that it is possible that one day we will have the technology to decode brain activity, complex thoughts into bits and bytes that can be used to query the internet or things like that, he said.

Once the technology is perfected, microchip implementation will probably become commonplace as societys technological dependency grows, according to Chien. Many people have become physiologically dependent on their technology devices, making the next step into technology dependency somewhat sensible. There are all of these studies that are written about these people who have withdrawal symptoms if you take their smartphone away from them. There is already this deep psychological kind of dependence on being tethered to information, so this seems like a logical connection to that, said Chien.

Further, many people are already so intertwined with data and the Internet that the security and privacy concerns of microchips would be comparable to the risks of the connected devices we have now. Chien argues that accessing location and biological data from a microchip would be no more difficult than accessing it from a smartphone or smartwatch thats synced to Bluetooth and map services, a car that is connected to the Internet or smart home devices that are scanning dialog for verbal commands.

However, Pomerleau highlighted one of the key differences between connected technology and a microchip implant: the ability to directly stimulate the brain. While a microchip might be able to decode brain activity to control a computer; it also means that a computer could, in theory, decode information to control brain activity. Having direct access to your thoughts and emotions through technology both for read out and, even more scarily, actually stimulating through brain computer interfaces could really exacerbate both the positive and negative impacts of technology in our lives, he said.

Making Technology Work for Us

Once microchip implants become commonplace, companies could easily adopt the technology to track and monitor their employees in a way that could become dangerous for the persons well-being, which might, in turn, be detrimental to the companys success.

Irina Raicu , the Internet Ethics Program director at Santa Clara Universitys Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, argues that technology, whether it be microchipping or productivity programs in the workplace, strips people of their humanity, turning them into something to manipulate. Were treating people as something like robots or just other objects that we can control without allowing them to have autonomy and dignity. Those are things that go away if youre being tracked all the time, whether by being microchipped or having cameras everywhere or sensors that can sense if youre at your desk or not, she said.

Chien has a similar concern. We ought to be thinking about the balance between the use of those techniques and the supporting of the individual styles, thats still productive in creating long-term work environments that people can be successful in, he saids. People, simply, are not at their most productive, creative, or innovative when theyre being watched by their organization or others.

Raicu said that once technology no longer makes workers freer and happier, things need to change. Thats where we want the technologist to think, OK, who are you serving with this? And what is the ultimate goal? And how does this impact society more broadly? she said. The reality is that technology is not the one in control and it cannot determine what gets developed and implemented. Technology doesnt just develop itself. Its human beings that are building it and deploying it and marketing it.

But that means that just as humans are perpetuating technology, we are also the ones who must apply regulations to it. We really need a whole education process to educate people about the limitations of these tools and then we will be able to talk about how to regulate them, Raicu said. But unfortunately we are in this period of rapid deployment of tools that are not even being audited to make sure that they work as they claim to work and so people are getting hurt right now while we are waiting for some control on these practices.

Putting the No in Technology

Society has developed a narrative that technology is inevitable and uncontrollable, creating a sense of helplessness when it comes to control. But Chien refuses to give technology that power and urges others to reject that helpless mentality as well. I think the tendency to say that technology has its own will and its way, and it will govern the future is a disempowering view and I think its actually the wrong view, he said.

Even if technological developments are, in some ways, inevitable, that only further reinforces the need for regulations and policies to control certain unexpected outcomes. Nor is new technology necessarily good. Facial recognition is now suspect in every field. Driverless vehicles, which were once so exciting, are slowing in momentum as implementation reveals lethal dangers, while robotic automation encroaches on workplaces, they arent always taking away jobs. Microchips are not an immediate threat yet, but they could become another example of our bad relationship with technology.

As humans continue to develop technology, government officials and lawmakers need to start developing solutions before it is implemented, otherwise we will have to face the consequences, said Pomerleau. Its not a technological solution but a sociological solution that were going to have to come up with if we are going to address the many [tech] challenges we are going to face in the next few decades.
Schoolchildren in flood areas need support

Daily Graphic Editorials Oct - 26 - 2023 , 08:29

By now it is quite obvious that the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams has become a national disaster considering the havoc it has wreaked on the communities near the banks of the Volta and in some cases, away from the course of the water.

In all of this, schoolchildren have been hard hit.

Reports have it that a total of over 2,000 children have been displaced.

In sympathising with the victims of the floods, this disaster brings to the fore the need to have an emergency educational policy for the country.

Indeed, the COVID-19 pandemic that took the world by storm in 2019, extending into 2020 and 2021, disrupted every imaginable human activity, including education.

The pandemic caught many countries, particularly developing countries, unawares as far as disaster preparedness in the educational sector is concerned.

With the COVID-19 experience, we had expected that the current disaster should not affect the learning outcomes of schoolchildren in the affected areas, but the situation seems to be the same as it was in 2020.

It is good that the Minister of Education, Dr Yaw Osei Adutwum, last Tuesday toured some of the affected communities, where schoolchildren, teachers and educational facilities are affected.

During the visit, the minister is said to have given an assurance that the ministry was set to come out with specific priority support packages for teachers and schools, to ensure the smooth running of education in the affected areas.

Dr Adutwum added that the ministry would commit great zeal and resources to secure an early remedy to the problem to ensure that education was not under threat in the affected areas.

The Daily Graphic believes that the assurance by the ministry has given hope to the people, especially for the schoolchildren who are traumatised because of the havoc the floods have unleashed on the communities and their schools.

However, we think that by now the Ghana Education Service (GES), which is the direct supervising agency, should have furnished the minister with a situational report, with specific details and information on the plight of the teachers and schoolchildren as well as learning outcomes in the affected areas.

This is particularly crucial, knowing that the disaster struck two weeks ago but the minister is now getting to know the effect and impact on learning in the affected areas.

We wonder why it should take the minister in person to visit the areas to get first-hand information when this visit should have been the time to roll out the specific priority support packages he spoke about.

On their own, the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) toured the areas and made some donations to teachers.

During the tour, the Volta Regional Chairman of GNAT, David Kata, who briefed the national executive of the association, said 300 teachers in 70 basic and second cycle schools in the Volta and Oti regions had been displaced.

According to him, a total of 2,000 schoolchildren from the affected areas have also been impacted negatively by the spillage and denied access to education.

It is important that efforts are expedited to ensure that schoolchildren, who, unfortunately have been caught up in the disaster through no fault of theirs are not unduly disadvantaged.

We believe that arranging a crash programme to enable the affected children to catch up with their mates when the situation normalises should not be difficult for the GES.

Programmes such as free intensive extra and weekend classes can be organised, while incentive packages are made available to teachers who will be involved in this.

For now, the GES can organise virtual lessons for the children on the local FM stations and mobile vans.

This is to ensure that no child is left behind in the learning process because of the flood.
Peace as UN celebrates 78th birthday

Daily Graphic Editorials Oct - 25 - 2023 , 15:45

Yesterday, the United Nations (UN) celebrated its 78 years of existence.

Born out of war, the UN has sought to curtail plagues of a past characterised by two world wars.

Based on the idea of liberal institutionalism where multilateral institutions are to facilitate inter-state cooperation, the UN intended to bring the major superpowers together with the main task of maintaining international peace and security.

United Nations Day, on October 24, marks the anniversary of the day in 1945 when the UN Charter entered into force.

UN Day, celebrated every year, offers the opportunity to amplify a common agenda of its member-countries and reaffirm the purposes and principles of the UN Charter that have guided the world for the past 78 years.

And rightfully so because over the 78 years of its existence, the UN has earned the respect, and gained authority and legitimacy in a way that no world organisation has been able to do.

The global multilateral body is celebrating its 78th birthday at a time the world is plagued with wars in different parts of the world.

The Russia-Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza wars have amply torched and tested the diplomatic skills of the members of the UN in every way possible.

Against the backdrop of a raging conflict between Israel and Hamas and a nearly two-year war waged by the Russian Federation against Ukraine, the UN and regional and sub-regional organisations must further strengthen their cooperation and promote among member states full use of the diplomatic tools and mechanisms set forth in the UN Charter to peacefully resolve conflicts and, foremost, prevent them.

Ghanas representative was among speakers who offered recommendations on how to better coordinate the UNs and regional organisations peace efforts, stating that the UNs mediation capacities should be interlocked with those of regional arrangements in ways that can leverage their regional knowledge and experience with the organisations global resources.

For the Daily Graphic, the Israeli-Hamas war has sharpened focus on rising geopolitical risks for financial markets, as investors wait to see if the conflict extends into other countries with the potential to drive up oil prices further and deal a fresh blow to the world economy.

Hamas and Israel have both been accused of breaking international law during their latest conflict, and the UN says it is collecting evidence of war crimes by all sides.

Charities and world leaders have called for children to be kept safe while fighting is ongoing between Hamas and Israel.

Although Hamas and Israel have been enemies for many years, this is the largest outbreak of violence in decades.

Enforcing the law amid the fog of war is difficult.

Holding perpetrators to account, once conflicts are over, has often proved elusive.

UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, called for the respect of international humanitarian law  including the Geneva Conventions  to be upheld.

Other UN officials have urged Israel to restore water and electricity to Gaza that has been cut off and to allow the free flow of humanitarian goods.

They warned against escalation or widening of the conflict.

Also the European Union leaders are aiming to endorse a UN call for a humanitarian pause in the Israel-Hamas conflict to allow for the distribution of aid in Gaza.

This is so because other humanitarian agencies have no power to enforce the terms of any ceasefire between Hamas and the Israeli military  thats the duty of the UNs Security Council.

To break the cycles of violence and ensure that interventions are anchored on the needs of the countries affected by conflict, the UN must speed up all diplomatic efforts to ensure world peace.

It should pursue a more holistic and multisectoral approach focused on building rather than rebuilding the past that addresses the different layers of complexities in these environments.

Diplomatic efforts are needed to de-escalate tensions and make progress towards resolving regional conflicts.

Gulf actors, supported by external stakeholders, should consider launching an inclusive sub-regional dialogue aimed at reducing the risk of inadvertent conflict by opening new communication channels.

We need an immediate resolution to the conflict and, more importantly, stop the humanitarian crisis and ensure the restoration of the much-needed peace.
Theres no cartel in MUSIGA Bessa Simons

Edith Mensah Showbiz News Oct - 26 - 2023 , 11:38

TWO former presidential aspirants of the Musicians Union of Ghana (MUSIGA), Gyedu Blay Ambolley and Ras Appiah Caleb-Levi, have described MUSIGA as being ran like a cartel where presidents groom their allies to succeed them when they leave office.

They claim the special succession plan started with the tenure of Diana Hopeson, who handed over to Bice Osei Kuffour aka Obour, and now the mandate has fallen on Bessa Simons, who they assert are from the same camp.

While Ambolley has been making his accusations over the years, Ras Appiah Caleb-Levi reechoed similar sentiments after he lost the presidential bid to Bessa Simons at the recently held elections, saying MUSIGA executives dont allow outsiders to be at the helm of affairs.

However, speaking in an interview with Graphic Showbiz on Tuesday, October 24 after the swearing-in of the newly elected executives at the Accra Tourism Information Centre, Accra, the new president of MUSIGA, Bessa Simons, said there was no iota of truth in that.

MUSIGA is not a cartel and has never been one. We all campaigned for votes and based on our manifestos, we were voted into power. Just like I campaigned to be president, I believe the previous presidents also solicited votes and based on what they had to offer, they were voted into office.

It will be wrong for anyone to sit there and say that MUSIGA is a cartel. Our elections have always been a free and fair one. If one doesnt win an election, there is no need for anyone to say anything bad about the union, he told Graphic Showbiz.
Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Obrafuor for African Legend Night

Kofi Duah Showbiz News Oct - 26 - 2023 , 08:29

THE month of December is just around the corner and already event organisers are gearing up to treat revellers to exciting events to mark the Yuletide.

One of the events to herald the Christmas holidays is African Legend Night concert slated for Friday, December 1 at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Centre(AICC).

For more than a decade, the African Legends Night has become synonymous with celebrating the excellence and contributions of African music legends, and this year is no exception.

This year's lineup of artististes to rock the concert are South Africas Yvonne Chaka Chaka and some Ghanas finest made up of Hiplife legend Obrafuor, Highlife artistes George Jahraa and Kwabena Kwabena.

With their unique style and influence, the artistes are expected to captivate the audience in an unforgettable night of music and celebration.

Yvonne Chaka Chaka, affectionately known as the Princess of Africa, has graced the global music stage for decades with her powerhouse vocals and timeless hits. Her songs, including Umqombothi, have transcended borders, making her a beloved African icon.

Fondly referred to as the Rap Sofo of Ghana, Obrafour is a pioneer in the Hiplife music genre. His thought-provoking lyrics have earned him a dedicated following beyond Ghana.

Highlife artiste George Jahraa became popular in 1990 for his Driver-Banza album, which has the well-known Sanukade song. Trust him to bring good energy on stage when he perform another banger, Ashikele.

Also on the bill is the Asor hitmaker, Kwabena Kwabena, who needs no introduction. He knows how to drag the audience along with him on stage.

With his chart-topping songs such as Adult Music, Tokro, Tuamudaa, patrons are certainly in for a good time.

Chief Director of Global Media Alliance, Emma Wenani, organisers of African Legends Night said, We are thrilled to present these exceptional artistes for this year'se vent.

Their music has left an indelible mark on the African music landscape, and we are excited to honour their contributions on one stage. This promises to be a night to remember," Emma Wenani added.

Among the host of celebrated African musicians who have graced the platform of African Legends Night are Hugh Masekela of South Africa, Femi Kuti of Nigeria and Freddy Meiway of Cote DIvoire. Not forgetting Ghanas Amakye Dede and Daddy Lumba.
Criminal justice in Ghana: Urgent reforms (2)

Ahumah Ocansey Opinion Oct - 26 - 2023 , 09:15

What are the means by which criminals are punished in Ghana? Section 294 of Criminal Procedure Code, 1960 (Act 30) states the kinds of punishment we have in Ghana.

The following punishments may be inflicted for offences: death, imprisonment, detention, fine, payment of compensation and liability to police supervision.

When we compare what we have here with what prevails in other Common law countries, we see some few differences.

In the UK, they have four; discharges, fines and compensations, community service, imprisonment, and driving disqualification.

Discharges are where the court finds you guilty but suspends sentence, and lets you off.

Normally, one would be conditionally discharged so that if within a period of, for instance, three years, you commit the same offence, or another crime altogether, the court would then cancel the discharge and sentence you. It is similar to probation in the US.

In the US, where a person is already a convict prisoner, he could also benefit from parole.

This is a system by which the convict is released from prison, normally for good conduct, and placed under a supervisor, while serving the rest of the sentence in the community, doing some work. When the person misconducts himself, he could be taken back to prison.

Congestion

In Ghana, the congestion in the prisons is caused by the Police, the Attorney-Generals office and the courts, when they become also liable through tardiness in starting trials, and condoning the intemperate excuses of the prosecution.

Look at this matter.

Yaw Kweku was a passenger seated in front of the taxi he boarded to a destination. Behind, two other passengers were also seated.

One of the two pulled out a pistol at the driver and asked him to surrender his money, while the other attempted to pick what he could from the left side pocket of the door.

Fortunately, the driver was close to a police station and sped there; he dashed out of the car to report.

The two passengers bolted away.

The police came and dragged out Yaw Kweku, who was still seated, confounded by what was happening.

They generously slapped him and bolted him behind bars as a robber suspect!

They took from him his 30.00, as proof of his robbery! The driver drove away never to be seen again! Yaw Kweku was arraigned before the Accra Circuit Court and remanded in custody on March 10, 2001.

On August 24, 2001, the case was called and adjourned.

By December 11, 2001, the case had been adjourned 30 times!

The case was again mentioned on January 8, 2002 and adjourned.

As at August 20, 2002, the case had been adjourned 29 times! The case came up on May 6, 2003 and adjourned.

By December 18, 2003, the case had been adjourned 12 times!

It continued on January 12, 2004.

As at December 21, 2004, the case had been adjourned 22 times! The case came up on January 11, 2005.

The last date for 2005 was February 15, 2005, and was called three times! In 2006, it was called on March 29.

That was the end.

It was not called again!

In August 2008, Yaw Kweku applied to the Accra High Court for discharge, and it was granted, after seven years in remand custody without trial.

Was he compensated for injury to his constitutional rights? None!

Harmful

The congestion in the prisons is harmful to the inmates.

First is the poor feeding; second is the health hazards and inadequate health facilities in the prisons to handle the diverse diseases that emerge at the prisons; third is the low ratio of officer to prisoner relationship for counselling and personal attention; fourth is the criminalisation of relatively innocent persons by association with professional criminals; fifth is the attenuation of their energies and creative abilities by non-existing vocational and technical facilities to engage their time and reform their minds.

Sixth is that of recidivism, estimated at 24 per cent of ex-convicts. It means the persons actually commit crime again to be returned to prison.

Eventually, the Prison Service is so overwhelmed they become virtually ineffective in impacting the prisoners positively.

The decongestion of the prisons requires Parliamentary attention and speedy work to enact legislation along the lines suggested herein.

 Community or non-custodial sentences should be prescribed for all juvenile cases and misdemeanours.

Counselling and mentorship should be used as corrective measures to restore normalcy to deviant behaviours of juveniles.

The 237 juveniles must be released from prison and counselled to normalcy.

 With regard to community work, the district assemblies must liaise with the Prison Service for identification of specific works that would be productive for environmental health of the community, otherwise, mere physical weeding of anywhere would not benefit the community.

Remandees whose trials have been delayed beyond two years should be released immediately.

When the Police or the Attorney-General completes its investigations, or have completed the case profiles for quick trial, then they could always re-arrest the persons for trial.

 Presidential Pardons. Persons sentenced to death who have been sobered by prison life and have served say about twenty years or more of their life could be considered for Presidential pardon.

The Attorney-General and the Prison Service should work in tandem to effect this.

 Parole/Probation should be part of the legislation to assist in reforming persons.

 Long-serving prisoners must undertake vocational, agricultural works to prepare them for resettlement.

 With the passage in Ghana of the Narcotic Control Commission (Amendment) Bill 2023, cannabis (Wee) could be cultivated for industrial and medical use.

Ghana must decriminalise the possession and smoking of cannabis for recreational purposes.

Beyond law

Beyond the law, the Attorney-General and the Police must be conscientious of the rights of persons assumed to be criminals.

Does the AG know the status of remandees in our prisons: what they did; whether trial is on or not; how long they have been there?

The meticulousness required of police investigations, along with the integrity of a case that the AG must assure, before trial begins, are too often lacking, and that cumulatively adds to the gross injustice in criminal administration on Ghana.

The Judiciary have an equal work to do.

The Magistrates and the Judges must insist on receiving reports of the number of persons in police cells, awaiting trial. And they must also receive reports from the AG on the status of remandees in our prisons.

The current Chief Justice could take these matters up, so that the injustices associated with criminal administration stops, and the prisons are freed of underserving but suffering Ghanaians.

It seems to be that because most criminals come from the lowest stratum of society, we the privileged do not give them a modicum of consideration and respect, but leave them at the periphery of society in the penumbra of gross injustice.

Let us all rethink attitudes towards prisoners, accused persons, and suspects, in the administration of criminal justice.

NGOs and persons zealous of a nation thriving on the credos of Freedom and Justice must stand in defence of those values.

The writer is a lawyer.
Alleged fake Kenyan lawyer, Brian Mwenda, granted $1,300 bail

GraphicOnline International News Oct - 26 - 2023 , 09:15

Nairobi's Milimani Chief Magistrate, Lukas Onyina, has granted bail to alleged fake lawyer Brian Mwenda, with a cash sum of Ksh.200,000 (approximately $1,300).

Chief Magistrate Onyina's decision to grant bail was based on the prosecution's failure to present compelling reasons to justify denying bail to the accused.

Mwenda, who was arraigned last week, faced charges including six counts of uttering a false document, creating a false document, and possession of a forged practising certificate. He pleaded not guilty to all charges before Nairobi Chief Magistrate Lukas Onyina.

Mwenda's arrest came on October 18 after he was exposed as a fraudulent advocate by DCI detectives. The case is scheduled for mention on November 7.

The prosecution had initially requested the court to deny Mwenda bail, contending that his release might lead to non-compliance with court proceedings. Additionally, it was argued that Mwenda's behavior indicated a lack of respect for the law, given his evasion of the police for over four days.
Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin, MP for Effutu

graphic.com.gh Personality Profiles Oct - 19 - 2023 , 21:36

Alexander Kwamina Afenyo-Markin born on 27 May 1978 is the Member of the Parliament of Ghana for the Effutu constituency, Central Region. He also serves as a member of the Committee on Defense and Interior Committee in Ghana Parliament. He is currently the Deputy Majority Leader in the Parliament of Ghana and hails from Winneba in the Central Region of Ghana.

He studied law at the University of Buckingham, (LLB/MGT, 20032006), Ghana School of Law where he received a Barrister at Law certification (20072009) and received an M.A in international politics and security studies at the University of Bradford (20092010). Between the years 1999 and 2003, the Effutu legislator worked as a Principal Postal Officer at the Ghana Post Company Limited. Also, he worked at the Excel Courier Ghana Limited as the Director between 2004 and 2011 and as an Associate at Dehenya Chambers from 2010 to 2016.

In 2012, on the ticket of the NPP, Afenyo-Markin contested the NDC parliamentary candidate, Mike Allen Hammah and won. He became the chairman of Ghana Water Company Ltd (GWCL) in 2017. He was alleged to have been involved in the near collapse of GWCL and other financial improprieties, over which he launched a defamation lawsuit in the court.

ECOWAS

He has been on the Committee of Defense and the Interior Finance Committee in Ghana Parliament. In 2021, Afenyo-Markin together with Abdul-Aziz Ayaba Musah, Johnson Kwaku Adu, Laadi Ayii Ayamba and Emmanuel Kwasi Bedzrah were sworn in during the Extraordinary Session 2021 of the Parliament of the ECOWAS which happened in Freetown in Sierra Leone.

Afenyo-Markin brought what he called the "The Effutu Dream" which was initiated in February 2020 to promote the Effutuman culture which will create a sense of belonging among the youth in its constituency. This also focused on capacity building of its constituents. The dream aimed at branding Effutu Constituency to attract tourists and investors. This initiative was birthed at a conference under a theme "Actualizing the Effutu Dream; the role of Effutu youth".
Evans Bobie Opoku, MP Asunafo North Constituency

Graphic.com.gh Personality Profiles Oct - 19 - 2023 , 21:38

Evans Bobie Opoku is a Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament representing the Asunafo North Constituency in the Ahafo Region on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). In 2021, Nana Akufo-Addo appointed and sworn in him as the Deputy Minister for Youth and Sports.

Evans is a member of the Government Assurance committee and also a member of Environment, Science and Technology Committee.

Evans Bobie Opoku was born on 1 December 1974 and hails from Dadiesoaba in the Ahafo region. He completed his BECE in 1990 and his SSSCE in 1993. He further had his GCE in 1996. He later obtained his diploma in Adult education from the University of Ghana in 2002. He further had his bachelor's degree in Social work and Psychology in 2008. In 2012, he had his master's degree in Development Management from the University of Cape Coast and in 2020, he had his LLB in Law.

Career

Evans was the General manager from 2010 to 2016 and also the Credit manager for the Ahafo Community Bank Limited from 2002 to 2006.[7] He was a tutor from 1997 to 1999.

Political career

Evans is a member of NPP and currently the MP for the Asunafo North Constituency in the Ahafo region. In the 2020 Ghana general elections, he won the parliamentary seat with 34,684 votes whilst the NDC parliamentary aspirant Mohammed Haruna had 31,340 votes. He was formerly the Regional Minister for the Bono Ahafo region and the Regional minister for the Ahafo region. He was appointed as the deputy minister for Youth and sports. He was also appointed the care-taker as regional minister for the Bono-East region.

In 2020, Evans presented veronica buckets, soaps and other items to the people of the Asunafo North Constituency during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eric Opoku, MP Asunafo South

Graphic.com.gh Personality Profiles Oct - 19 - 2023 , 15:41

Eric Opoku is a Ghanaian politician and Member of Parliament representing the Asunafo South Constituency in the Brong-Ahafo Region on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Eric Opoku was born on 5 June 1970. He hails from a town called Sankore in the Brong Ahafo region of Ghana. He had his Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in year 2004.

Career

Opoku is a farmer/ agriculturist. Prior to his appointment into parliament, he worked as a teacher with the Ghana Education Service at SDA Primary School in Sankore, from 1997 to 2000. He has also worked with Kuapa Kookoo Ltd as the Society Development Secretary from 1998 to 2001.

Political career

Opoku was first elected into parliament in the 3rd parliament of the 4th republic of Ghana as the member of parliament for the Asunafo South constituency in the Brong Ahafo region of Ghana. Though he lost his seat in the subsequent election, he was elected again into parliament on 7 January 2013 after claiming victory at the 2012 Ghanaian General Elections to represent the Asunafo South constituency and served until 6 January 2017. He was then reelected on 7 January 2017 after the 2016 Ghanaian General Elections where he obtained 52.97% of the valid votes cast.

He has worked as the Deputy Brong Ahafo Regional Minister from 2009 to 2013. In the 7th parliament of the 4th republic of Ghana he served on the Food, Agriculture and Cocoa Affairs Committee as a ranking Member. He also served on the Privileges Committee and Appointments Committee in the same parliament.

Opoku received an award as the best member of parliament for communal and rural development for 2017 from the Bureau of Research on Governance, Commerce and Administration (BORGCA). This award was given for his contribution to developmental projects in the Asunafo South constituency.

Elections

Opoku was elected as the member of parliament for the Asunafo South constituency of the Brong Ahafo region in the 2004 Ghanaian general elections. He won on the ticket of the National Democratic Congress. His constituency was a part of the 10 parliamentary seats out of a total 24 seats won by the National Democratic Congress in that election for the Brong Ahafo Region. The Asunafo South constituency saw a skirt and blouse voting by electorates in that election as the presidential candidate elected by the constituency electorates was John Kufour of the major opposition New Patriotic Party. The National Democratic Congress won a minority total of 94 parliamentary seats out of 230seats in that elections. Opoku was elected with 14,076votes out of 29,345total valid votes cast, equivalent to 48% of total valid votes cast. He was elected over George William Amponsah of the New Patriotic Party, Jack Kennedy Brobbey an independent candidate and Fredrick Nkrumah of the Convention People's Party. These obtained 43.80% , 7.30% and 0.90% respectively of total valid votes cast.

Opoku was re-elected in the 2020 Parliamentary election to represent them in the 8th Parliament of the fourth Republic of Ghana.

Attack

Opoku was attacked in his residence on 25 December 2017 in Sankore in the Brong Ahafo region of Ghana. The National Democratic Congress alleged that the attackers were armed supporters of the opposition New Patriotic Party. He was attacked for the second time, on 1 April 2018, also in his home in Sankore by armed men. Though left unharmed the attackers allegedly made away with about GHS 10,400.00, a television set and decoder and damaged three of Opoku's vehicles.
Patrick Banor, MP Asutifi North

Graphic.com.gh Personality Profiles Oct - 19 - 2023 , 21:40

Patrick Banor is a Ghanaian politician and an administrator. He has been the Member of Parliament for the Asutifi North constituency since 7 January 2021.

Banor was born on Friday 13 June 1975 at Kenyasi No.2. He obtained he Basic Education Certificate in 1991, and his Secondary School Certificate in 1994. He was awarded his Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and Social Work in 2009.

Patrick is a member of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee and also a member of the House committee.

Career and politics

Prior to entering politics, he was the General Manager of Sarfpok Company Limited. During the 2020 NPP parliamentary primaries, Banor contested for the Asutifi North seat against Evans Bobie Opoku and won. During the 2020 Ghanaian general election, Banor contested for the Asutifi North seat with Ebenezer Kwaku Addo of the NDC, and Kofi Annan of GUM. He polled 18505 votes representing 52.62% of the total valid votes cast against Addo's 16546 votes and Anane's 116 votes, representing 47.05% and 0.33% of the total valid votes cast respectively.

In September 2020, Patrick provided 1,348 candidates of BECE with mathematical sets. In August 2021, he presented about 400 desks to Ola Girls' SHS.
GNAT assists displaced teachers in Volta Region

Benjamin Xornam Glover Education Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:30

The leadership of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has toured the communities inundated as result of the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams and presented GH100,000 to affected teachers.

The Teachers Fund also presented GH50,000 to the affected teachers in the North and South Tongu districts where most of the affected teachers could be found.

This was after the GNAT leadership had assessed the impact of the disaster on education because both learners and teachers have been affected.

The visit was also aimed at assisting GNAT to map out strategies for restoring teaching and learning services in the affected communities.

The flood disaster in the lower Volta basin has inflicted significant devastation on the communities in its path.

Seriously impacted are educational infrastructure, some of which now serve as safe havens for displaced persons.

Both learners and facilitators have all become victims as some have lost educational materials and are putting up with family and friends while others are in settlement camps.

The team from GNAT was led by its President, Rev. Isaac Owusu; the General Secretary, Thomas Musah; the Volta Regional Chairman of GNAT; David Kata, and other national and regional executives of GNAT.

The delegation made the presentations when they visited displaced teachers putting up at the St Kizito Senior High Technical School at Mepe.

Emergency measures

The President of GNAT called on the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to put in place interim measures to ensure learners in the affected areas were not left behind.

Rev. Owusu assured the teachers and the learners that GNAT would continue to provide whatever support was needed to ameliorate their plight.

The General Secretary of GNAT, Mr Musah, emphasised the need for learners to have access to continuous, equitable, inclusive and quality education under emergency situations, such as the flooding in line with UNESCO education in emergencies (EiE) principle.

He said GNAT would engage the inter-ministerial committee formed to address spillage-induced flooding on the need to come out with measures, including compensation packages, for affected teachers.

Mr Musah said that was important to address the challenges in education in the affected communities and prevent social vices such as teenage pregnancies and child labour.

Numbers

Mr Kata on his part, said 300 teachers in 70 schools from basic to second cycle schools in the Volta and Oti regions had been displaced.

Mr Kata added that 2,000 schoolchildren from the affected areas had also been impacted negatively by the spillage and denied access to education.

The GNAT regional chairman, therefore, appealed to the Ministry of Education and the Ghana Education Service to make teaching and learning materials available to the volunteers engaging learners in the various displacement camps.
5 Graphic journalists shortlisted for GJA awards

Joshua Bediako Koomson Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:17

Five journalists of the Graphic Communicatons Group Ltd, have been shortlisted for recognition at this years Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) awards ceremony slated for October 29, in Accra.

They are Della Russel Ocloo, Mohammed Fugu, Kester Aburam Korankye, Efia Akese and Alberto Mario Noretti.

The Daily Graphic newspaper has also been nominated for the Best Newspaper of the Year Award.

The prestigious event would honour excellence and outstanding contributions of journalists within the media industry.

The theme for the event is: "Leveraging media freedom to sustain the democratic and security architecture: The litmus test of Election 2024".

Attendees

The event will attract many attendees, comprising Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from local and international media partners, corporate organisations and members of the Journalism community.

Also in attendance would be the Minister of Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah; Chairman of the National Media Commission, Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, and the US Ambassador to Ghana, H. E. Virginia E. Palmer.

This years ceremony will be presided over by the Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev. Dr Ernest Adu Gyamfi, with Jean Mensa, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, delivering the keynote address.

Congratulatory message

The GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, commended all awardees for their dedication to media practice and for telling the most impactful stories.

He said they had demonstrated social responsibility, a hallmark in journalism, through their works.

The president gave an assurance that this year's event would be unique from the late-night format of previous editions.
ActionAid Ghana sets up model girls school

Gilbert Mawuli Agbey Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:56

Girls model school concept is key to promoting gender-responsive public basic school education in the country, the Upper East Regional Programme Manager of ActionAid Ghana, Alhassan Sulemana has said.

He, therefore, stressed the need for stakeholders to play their respective roles in the rolling out of such an initiative, as it would set all children, especially girls, on the path to greater economic opportunities and participation in society.

Event

Mr Sulemana was speaking at an event to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child in Bolgatanga last Wednesday.

It was organised by ActionAid Ghana, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), on the theme Model Girls School: Promoting safe spaces for girls education and leadership.

The event proceeded with a procession by girls drawn from some basic and senior high schools through some principal streets of the town, holding placards with various inscriptions to communicate to the general public the essence of girl-child education.

Some of the placards read Our time is now, our right our future, access to girl-friendly quality education is a right, create safe spaces for girls to excel in education and leadership, invest in girls education and empower a girl today, transform the world tomorrow, among others.

Theme

He said the theme was of importance to the organisation as the model girls school concept was catching up well with stakeholders and being implemented across the region with various degrees of success.

It is, therefore, time for us to put it on the front burner for discussions to chart the way forward on how to consolidate and sustain the gains made so far, as well as tackle the challenges as well, he added.

He explained that based on the development of 16-point criteria to guide the operationalisation of girls model schools, ActionAid had supported the Ghana Education Service (GES) to build and manage such schools in the Oti, Bono, Northern, Upper West and Upper East regions.

The Upper East Regional Minister, Stephen Yakubu, in an address on his behalf, said the Regional Coordinating Council would not only support ActionAid Ghana to maintain the schools that had already been established but would ensure their expansion as well.

The Talensi District Director of the GES, Christiana Azure Ayinzoya, who chaired the ceremony, underscored the need for girls to be guided and mentored by responsible adults for them to pursue and achieve their goals.
Ambulance case: Ato Forson drops three defence witnesses

Justice Agbenorsi Oct - 26 - 2023 , 13:58

Three defence witnesses of former Deputy Minister of Finance, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, will no longer testify in the ambulance case before the Accra High Court.

The defence witnesses  a former Comptroller and Accountant General, Seidu Kotomah, a former Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, Patrick Nimo, and a former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Henry Kofi Wampah  were billed to testify in defence of Dr Forson.

But in court today [Oct 26, 2023], lawyer for Dr Forson, Godwin Edudzie Tameklo, told the Court presided over by Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe, that the three would no longer testify.

The court, therefore set aside a witness summons it issued in respect of Messrs Nimo and Kotomah.

Meanwhile, a former Minister of Health, Alex Segbefia, would be the next witness to testify for Dr Forson.

The case has been adjourned to November 9, 2023.

Charges

Dr Forson, who is also the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Ajumako Enyan Essiam and the Minority Leader of Parliament, is standing trial with Sylvester Anemana, a former Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, and Richard Jakpa, a businessman, for allegedly causing financial loss of 2.37 million to the state in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances for Ghana between 2014 and 2016.

They have, however, pleaded not guilty to five counts of wilfully causing financial loss to the state, abetment to wilfully cause financial loss to the state, contravention of the Public Procurement Act and intentionally misapplying public property.

It is the case of the prosecution that Dr Forson, by writing to the BoG for letters of credit of 3.95 million for the supply of 50 ambulances in favour of Big Sea, played a part in causing financial loss to the state since the ambulances procured for the state were not fit for purpose.

Prosecutions facts

Per the A-Gs facts accompanying the charge sheet, in 2009 while delivering the State of the Nation Address, the then President, Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, indicated that new ambulances would be purchased to expand the operations of the National Ambulance Service.

Jakpa, who is a local representative of Big Sea General Trading Ltd, a company based in Dubai, subsequently approached the Ministry of Health with a proposal that he had arranged for finance from Stanbic Bank for the supply of 200 ambulances to the government.

Parliament approved the financing agreement between the government and Stanbic Bank.

According to the facts, on November 19, 2012, Dr Anemana wrote to the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) seeking approval to engage Big Sea through single sourcing for the supply of the 200 ambulances.

They added that on August 7, 2014, Dr Forson wrote to the Bank of Ghana for Letters of Credit covering 3.95 million for the supply of 50 ambulances in favour of Big Sea.

The Letters of Credit were accordingly released to Big Sea.
Bawumia cuts sod for 582 projects - $150m investment across 48 districts, 6 regions

Mohammed Fugu Oct - 26 - 2023 , 08:00

The Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has cut the sod for the commencement of infrastructural works on a $150 million investment project for 48 districts in six regions.

The project is made up of the provision of water, construction of school buildings, health facilities, markets, earth dams and other critical physical infrastructure.

It is under the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) initiative.

The projects are expected to be completed by 2025.

The project comes as a proactive response to the surging spillover of fragility, conflict and violence from the Sahel to the northern border regions.

Its objectives include improving regional collaboration and the socioeconomic and climate change resilience of border zone communities in the targeted northern regions of the Gulf of Guinea countries which are exposed to conflict and climate risks.

The countries are Benin, Ivory Coast, Ghana and Togo.

The project interventions will contribute to the prevention of the spread of conflict from the Sahel region, reduce vulnerability to climate change, strengthen local institutions, improve economic opportunities, build public trust and strengthen regional dialogue across the Gulf of Guinea countries.

In a brief address at the ceremony held at Yendi yesterday, Dr Bawumia reiterated the governments commitment to safeguarding an improved welfare of all persons in the country and more importantly people living within communities that were likely to be exposed to fragilities that threatened their sustainable socio-economic growth and development.

The SOCO project is a timely investment from the government of Ghana and it is expected to deliver socio-economic community-level climate-resilient infrastructure, skills development and training of the youth and women, including the vulnerable, the Vice-President stressed.

Dr Bawumia added that the project had currently created jobs for 434 community facilitators (CFs) and other specialists.

He said it would also improve access to basic social and economic services, promote local economic development, gender equality and improve environmental management when the projects were executed efficiently and effectively.

I am extremely excited to be part of this historic and symbolic sod-cutting of 15 physical projects within the Yendi municipality to pave the way for the construction of all the 582 projects under the Gulf of Guinea Northern Regions Social Cohesion (SOCO) project to enhance the resilience of our cities, communities and the country at large for sustainable development, the Vice-President stated.

Dr Bawumia emphasised that funding for the project was available and had been disbursed for the execution of all the sub-projects and, therefore, contractors would not be inhibited with resources to execute the project.

He said the Yendi Municipal Assembly, for instance, had received its allocation to commence work.

The Vice-President, therefore, cautioned all implementing agencies, both at the national and sub-national levels, that implementation delays would not be tolerated.

Community approach

The Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development (MLGDRD), Daniel Botwe, said that the SOCO project was a community-driven approach that safeguarded their sustainability, impacted and provided a game-changing avenue for communities to be resilient.

The Overlord of Dagbon, Ya-Na Abukari II, thanked the government for the project and what it would deliver to the Yendi Municipality and the Northern Region at large.

He also commended the government for providing proactive leadership and designing a life-transforming project in the countrys development efforts.
Ga Manye funeral: Traditional rites reach fever pitch

Vincent Amenuveve Oct - 26 - 2023 , 09:00

Preparations have reached fever pitch at the Ga Traditional Council for the funeral rites of the Ga Manye, Naa Dedei Omaedru III.

A visit by the Daily Graphic to the traditional seat at Kaneshie in Accra yesterday revealed that the palace grounds were still being prepared for the funeral, with giant speakers and public address systems being mounted.

Both the outer and inner perimeters of the palace had been draped in red and black satin, with a central canopy mounted for public viewing of the remains of the Queenmother of the Ga Traditional Area.

The portrait of Naa Dedei Omaedru had also been displayed around the various canopies.

At the time of the visit around 5 p.m. yesterday, there were traditional drumming and other performances related to the funeral.

There was also heavy police presence deployed to the area to ensure law, order and provide protection to the bereaved and mourners.

While some of the police personnel had mounted a barrier outside the palace, others were stationed within the palace to keep guard.

Curfew

The Chief of Protocol and Communications for the Ga Mantse, Sylvester Parker-Allotey, explained that on Saturday, October 28, no one was expected to be seen outside after 6 p.m. within the Ga Traditional Area, which covers essentially the Central Business District (CBD), known as Ga Mashie, and all jurisdictions falling under it.

He indicated that the areas that would be affected were all satellite communities otherwise known as Ga rural under the six paramountcies of the traditional council, namely Sempe, Akumadjan, Gbese, Abola, Otublohum and Asere.

Mr Parker-Allotey, who is also the Chairman of the Protocol Committee for the funeral, said shops and markets in Ga Mashie would be closed for business from the morning of Saturday, as part of the observance of rites towards the burial of the Ga Manye.

The one-day ban on business activities is a compromised position from the three-day closure the Ga Traditional Council had earlier announced.

Addressing a press conference in Accra last Tuesday, Mr Parker-Allotey, a retired diplomat, stated: We hereby announce that on Saturday, 28th October 2023, all commercial activities within Greater Accra will be suspended as a mark of solemn respect and final farewell to our beloved queen.

He said the funeral was not merely an event, but a celebration of the cherished values and principles upheld by the late Ga Manye, including community service, unity, peace and the demonstration of our rich GaDangbe cultural heritage.

The Sempe Mantse and Mankralo of the Ga State, Nii Adotey Otintor II, who is also the Chairman of the Central Funeral Planning Committee, implored residents within the Ga State to set aside just one day out of the 365 days in the year" without opening their shops for the smooth burial of the queenmother.

Its one day

There is confusion, however, about the number of days the traditional curfew is to be observed and shops to remain shut.

When the Daily Graphic visited the CBD of Accra yesterday in the morning, the streets were busy as usual with vehicles, market women and shoppers competing for space while they buy, sell and commute.

Some of the traders who spoke with the Daily Graphic explained that although they wished they could trade in the coming days, they had no choice but to comply with the directive.

Some banks have also sent notices to their customers that they will not open for business from Thursday to Saturday within Ga Mashie, especially in the CBD.

We join the Ga State in mourning Naa Dedei Omaedru III.

In view of this, our Accra Main, Tudu, Makola, Ring Road, Movenpick, North Industrial Area, Dansoman and West Hill Mall branches will be closing at 4 p.m. this week, a message from one of the banks read.

Court injunction

Meanwhile, the Accra High Court has put an interim injunction on the handling of the remains of Naa Dedei Omaedru.

The interim injunction, which would last for 10 days, effective yesterday, restrains the Chairman of the Funeral Planning Committee, Nii Odotey Otintor II, Naa Yarley Sarkodie Amoah or anybody acting on their behalf from handling, organising, touching, performing or dealing with the remains of the late queenmother who ruled for 59 years.

It is hereby ordered that the Defendants/Respondents or the Funeral Committee chaired by Ni Otintor II, all members of the committee, their privies, workmen, assigns and all persons working through them are restrained from handling, organising, touching, performing or dealing with the remains of the late Queenmother, Naa Dedei Omaedru II in any manner for a period of ten (10) days, the court presided over by Justice Patrick Baayeh, stated.

The interim injunction follows an application by the Head of Antie We of Kpone, Nuumo Emmanuel T. Antia We, the Ankobea of Antie We, Nii Addy Oba-Aasaa II, and five others.

However, the Ga Traditional Council and Central Funeral Planning Committee said they had not been served with any letter of injunction on the holding of the funeral for the late Ga Manye.

Mr Parker-Allotey told the Daily Graphic yesterday that although they had heard reports of an ex-parte application at the High Court for a stay of the funeral without the consent of the family of the late Ga Manye, the committee had not been served with any notice.

He explained that as far as he was concerned, it was the children of the late Ga Manye who had issues but the opportunity had been created for dialogue between them and the committee and that as far as the committee was concerned there was no issue.

When asked what the issue was about, he declined to comment further, saying it was not meant for public consumption.

"In any funeral, children don't have that much weight in what happens as the paternal and maternal families, but particularly for us Gas, it is the paternal side which has greater weight, so if you don't achieve consensus among yourselves that's very unfortunate," Mr Parker-Allotey stressed.

He said the committee was going ahead with funeral arrangements as planned until such time that the court processes were exhausted and the court placed an injunction.
Ga Manye's funeral: Court sets injunction aside, funeral to go ahead

Justice Agbenorsi Oct - 26 - 2023 , 17:00

The High Court in Accra has set aside an injunction preventing the funeral of the late Ga Manye's funeral from taking place.

In a ruling Thursday [Oct 26, 2023] the General Jurisdiction of the High Court presided over by Justice Patrick Baayeh, said it granted the injunction in error because the applicants of the motion that gave rise to the injunction failed to give the court the true state of affairs.

Applicants

The application for injunction was filed by the Head of Antie We of Kpone, and 8 others against Nii Adotey Otintor II, and Yaa Yarley Sarkodie Amoah  Chairman and Secretary of the Funeral Committee.

On Oct 25, 2023, the injunction was subsequently granted by the court, preventing the funeral from taking place.

But the court has since lifted the injunction.

In fairness to the parties therefore, the Order of Interim Injunction granted on October 25, 2023 is hereby set aside, the judge said in his new ruling.
Akosombo Dan spillage: Govtll restore livelihoods

Nana Konadu Agyeman Oct - 25 - 2023 , 13:03

The government has pledged its commitment to distribute relief items to persons and communities that were affected by the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams to bring comfort to all.

It said through its Inter-ministerial Committee set up by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) would work with the various government agencies to restore the livelihoods of the affected persons.

After water levels have come down, collectively all government agencies assigned to the inter-ministerial committee will do their respective duties so that we restore the schools, electricity, water and provide the necessary support to farmers and fish farmers, and other people who have lost their livelihoods because of the spillage exercise, it said.

Distribution

Giving an update in Accra yesterday on the governments relief efforts after the recent spillage, the Deputy Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, said the government, through NADMO, had taken full responsibility for rehabilitating persons and communities affected by the spillage.

So whatever distribution of resources that NADMO will require in terms of food items, water and medicine, all state agencies are collaborating and playing their part to make sure that they are provided.

Other private individuals and institutions that so wish to support the affected communities are encouraged to do so. If they also wish to distribute some relief items to NADMO to add to their disbursement, that is also encouraged, she said.

Interventions

The deputy minister said governments relief efforts during the spillage included safety and relief.

With safety, she said the focus was on evacuating the affected persons from the communities to safe havens by NADMO, 48 Engineers Regiment, Riverine Command of the Ghana Navy and the Naval Training Command.

In terms of relief, she said steps were being taken to avoid overcrowding of people who were in temporary shelters at the various school compounds to avert any medical emergencies.

Those persons, she said, were being provided with food and non-food items, medicines and 40 mobile biodigester toilet facilities.

Assessment

On the question of the amount the government and the VRA intended to spend in trying to rehabilitate the affected communities, Ms Abubakar said all the ministries, together with their district offices in the affected communities, were undertaking that assessment.

She said the water levels had not reduced significantly and all the assessment and required support should be based on the data and science on the ground.

Because today, until the water levels go down and you are able to assess the level of damage to property and quantify what people may just have lost, you may just speculate and then put out some figures and later on when you come back to inform the people that we may require double or triple of what we have mentioned we would need to rehabilitate the communities, they would express doubt over the resources that were used.

So we are keeping faith with the data that will be provided after the water levels are completely down and the proper assessments are made, she said.

Awaiting test information

She indicated that health experts from the Ghana Health Service (GHS) were currently conducting tests to determine the level of water and soil contamination in some of the affected communities.

The outcome of such tests would determine the level of contamination of water and how habitable the affected communities were currently.

It is this information that they will give that will inform some decisions by the inter-ministerial committee on what to do, but as it stands now we have not received such information or advice from the health experts on the ground that we should relocate the people.

We have doctors and nurses on the ground such as Mepe who know what is happening on the ground and advising what necessary steps can be taken. If the intention is about relocation, there is so much involved in moving people from their social and cultural habitats, away from their property and farms, she said.

Safe havens

Ms Abubakar noted that usually when incidents such as spillage occurred and people were internally displaced, a large number of people moved to stay with relatives and friends on their own and often not through arrangements that had been put in place by the government.

She said when members of the inter-ministerial committee visited Mepe, the people at the safe haven were about 6,000, but the number moved up to about 8,000 the following day.

She revealed that people staying in some second cycle schools had mattresses, mosquito nets and a full complement of things that could assist them in the meantime.

For now, the information that we have received is that so far those who have moved to the safe havens have been given the resources to ensure they are able to stay there temporarily until such a time that they want to go back to the communities, she said.

National Emergency Contact Centre

The briefing was also used to launch the National Emergency Contact Centre set up by the National Information Centre under the Ministry of Information to enable persons in the affected communities to reach out on 311 and share their feedback to assist the government to take the necessary action with dispatch.

The Deputy Chief Executive in charge of Engineering and Operations at the Volta River Authority (VRA), Edward Ekow Obeng-Kenzo, highlighted the various humanitarian items the authority had so far provided for the affected communities.

We will be with you in these trying times to support residents affected. We as VRA and the agencies that we are working with will like to assure all that, as projected, we will be seeing an end to this situation that we have, he said.
Ghana to produce anti-snake venom locally

Zadok Kwame Gyesi Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:25

The country is set to produce anti-snake venom locally to save the lives of people who are bitten by snakes, sometimes leading to deaths due to the lack of life- saving Serums.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) has been signed between Atlantic Lifesciences, a Ghanaian company, and Vins Bioproducts, an Indian company to actualise the local production.

The bulk Snake Vernom Antiserum arrived in Ghana last Friday. This would make Ghana the first country in West Africa to produce and package anti-snake venom for local use and export.

This forms part of governments objective to make Ghana the hub of vaccines manufacturing on the continent.

Public health

The Chief Executive Officer of Atlantic Lifesciences, Dhananjay Tripathi, said the WHO considered snake bite as a neglected tropical disease that plagued the rural communities.

He said Pharmanova and Atlantic Lifesciences had played critical roles in importing antisnake venom on behalf of the government, and that in 2017 his outfit considered the move to start local production of vaccines especially anti-snake serum.

Sera

The Executive Director of Vins Bioproducts Limited, Siddarth Daga, said his outfit was a leading producer of Sera.

He said he was excited his outfit was collaborating with Atlantic Lifesciences to produce anti-snake venom in Ghana.

Mr Daga said the partnership would help position Ghana to be the leader of Serum producer in Africa.

Health system vulnerability

The Minister of Health, Mr Kwaku Agyeman Manu, in a speech read on his behalf, said the COVID-19 disrupted health systems, ravaged economies and laid bare the vulnerabilities of countries.

He noted that Ghana could not rely on imported vaccines and serums to meet her health needs.

The Minister of Health said as the country weaned itself of the Global Alliance for Vaccines Initiative, it was important to produce it vaccine needs locally.

Mr Manu said it was in that direction the government was supporting the private sector to produce vaccines locally to help promote healthcare delivery.

The Head of National Vaccine Institute, Prof. William Ampofo, said the Institute will continue to facilitate the work by private sector to establish vaccine manufacturing plants in the country.

Data on snake bite

The World Health Organisation Country Representative for Ghana, Professor Francis Kasolo, in a speech read on his behalf, said on the average 9,600 snake bites were recorded each year from 2015 to 2019.

WHO is thus pleased with the signing of this MOU that signifies a joint effort to improve the availability and accessibility of safe, effective and affordable anti-snake venom, which is crucial in saving lives and reducing the mortality rate associated with snakebites, he said

The Presidential Advisor on Health, Dr Nsiah Asare, said the production of the anti-snake venom would promote public health in the country.

CEO of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Delese Mimi Darko noted that her outfit has approved the production of the anti-snake venom.
Cecilia Dapaah case: CJ refuses OSPs petition

Emmanuel Ebo Hawkson Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:42

The Chief Justice, Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkornoo, has refused a petition by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) seeking the removal of Justice Edward Twum as the presiding judge in a case involving a former Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Cecilia Abena Dapaah.

The OSP, yesterday, posted on its X pages, formerly known as Twitter page, that the Chief Justice had refused to accede to the petition.

By a letter dated October 25, 2023, the Judicial Secretary informed The Special Prosecutor that, the Chief Justice is unable to accede to the Office of the Special Prosecutors (OSP) request for his Lordship Justice Edward Twum to be recused and removed from all cases involving the OSP pending before him, the notice by the OSP stated.

Petition

On October 12, this year, an Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Twum, was expected to take the plea of Ms Dapaah in a case in which the OSP had accused her of failing to declare her assets during her time as minister.

Aside from that, a second attempt by the OSP to freeze the assets and accounts of Ms Dapaah was also expected to be heard by the same court.

However, the court had to put two court processes on hold following the petition by the OSP to the Chief Justice, seeking the recusal of Justice Twum from all cases filed by the OSP, including that of Cecilia Dapaah.

Freezing motion

Justice Twum is the judge presiding over all the cases filed against the former minister by the OSP.

On August 31, Justice Twum dismissed a motion by the OSP seeking to continue to freeze the accounts of Ms Dapaah.

It was the considered view of the court that the OSP could not provide any legal basis to continue to seize the accounts.

He held that the OSP was in doubt about the true ownership of the alleged tainted property found in Ms Dapaahs house and also failed to convince the court that the alleged tainted property was used in connection with a crime.

Abridgment of time

Again, on October 12, Justice Twum granted an application for abridgment of time filed by Ms Dapaah for the fresh motion by the OSP to freeze her accounts earlier than the expected date.

The application by the OSP was expected to be heard on October 18, but the court decided to hear it earlier (October 12, 2023) after it upheld the application for abridgment of time filed by Ms Dapaah.

In a ruling, Justice Twum held that Ms Dapaah would suffer greater hardship if the application was not heard earlier.

Justice Twum said pursuant to a ruling by the court on August 31 dismissing a first freezing application, the OSP released Ms Dapaahs funds to her on September 5 but seized them again on the same day.

The OSP, the court said, then filed an application for another freezing order on September 11, served Ms Dapaah on September 20, with a return date for hearing on October 18.

It was the considered view of the court that the long period for the application to be determined would be inimical to Ms Dapaah and cause greater hardship for her as she would be disadvantaged, not knowing her fate regarding her bank accounts.

In the interest of fairness, justice and expeditious trial, the court grants the application for abridgment of time, Justice Twum held.

The OSP replied with a certiorari application urging the Supreme Court to quash the ruling by the High Court for abridgment of time.

Background

The OSP commenced investigation on Ms Dapaah for corruption and corruption-related offences following the revelation that she was keeping more than $1 million in her house.

That was after police prosecutors had arraigned the househelps of Ms Dapaah and her husband, Daniel Osei Kuffour, for allegedly stealing money and items worth millions of Ghana cedis from the couple's residence at Abelemkpe in Accra.
Church must be active voice in society  Rt Rev. Dr Dogbe

Emmanuel Bonney Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:48

The Chairman of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG), Rt Rev. Dr Hilliard Dogbe, has urged religious leaders to be the active voice in society and instil ethical values in their followers to help ensure integrity in both public and private spaces.

He said, with the high rate of corruption, moral decadence in society, one was tempted to ask if the church has failed.

He said it was, therefore, necessary to prioritise ethical leadership to bring transformation to the Ghanaian society.

Rev. Dr Dogbe added that it was important to uphold values and morals that build communities and supported it with scriptures from Proverbs 3:27 and Micah 6:8.

It was therefore the role of the church and the state to educate and enlighten church leaders on ethical leadership.

Rt Rev. Dogbe said this at the 2023 National Leadership Conference of the CCG in Accra on the theme: Ethical Leadership and National Transformation.

Dr Dogbe, who is also the Presiding Prelate of the Western West Episcopal District of the AME Zion Church, said the CCG was into educating the nation before independence and continued to do so.

The Programmes Director of the All-Africa Conference of Churches, Rev. Dr Ezekiel Lesmore, said it was the time to tell each other the truth through love with regard to leadership on the African continent.He quoted John 10: 7-18 and spoke about two types of leaders: Thieves and Good Shepherds.

Chieftaincy

The Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Asamoah Boateng, said money had taken over the country and that everyone wanted it by fair or foul means.

He added that there was the need for all to go down on their knees to pray for Gods direction in our quest to succeed in life.

Ethical leadership, according to him, meant to be compassionate to others.

Mentor

If we believed that Christ sent us here then we should start doing what he sent us to do.

Lets do our best to mentor the youth and pull them along, he said.

A former Chairman of the National Peace Council, Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Asante, said it was necessary to get involved in political issues since it involved everyone.

He told the leaders that identifying themselves with a particular party was not good and could end up dividing people.

He said Christians should have critical collaborations and speak against the ills in society.

A former Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Aaron Ocquaye, posited that principles were the hallmark of societies and an important foundation for the church.
Damfa community benefits from ASWIM breast screening exercise

Diana Mensah Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:58

About 50 female teenagers and breast-feeding mothers in the Damfa community have benefited from a breast screening exercise organised by the Association of Women in Media (ASWIM).

The exercise led to the detection of abnormalities in the breasts of some beneficiaries.

The one-day exercise was aimed to educate beneficiaries on the risk factors of breast cancer and how to reduce their chances of acquiring the disease.

It was part of ASWIMs activities to mark the breast cancer awareness month held in October.



Rationale

The President of ASWIM, Mavis Kitcher, underscored the need for women to undertake breast cancer screening and added that even when abnormalities were detected, treating the condition at an early stage made the disease curable.

She said the association intended to bring the exercise to the doorsteps of beneficiaries and, therefore, expressed the belief that it would go a long way to protect the lives of women on whom families and communities depended on.

In fact, more often than not, women are the caregivers in their families, and they go to great lengths to ensure that their ailing children, husbands and other relations receive medical care but when they fall sick, they either ignore the nagging health symptoms or procrastinate in seeking medical attention sometimes to their detriment, she said.

Mrs Kitcher reiterated the associations commitment to support efforts aimed at curbing the breast cancer scourge among Ghanaians, especially women, irrespective of where they lived.

She said available statistics indicated that 60 per cent of breast cancer cases in Ghana were detected in the advanced stages, and therefore, urged women to resolve and change the unfortunate situation by taking the right and consistent actions.

Constant examination

The Deputy Director of Nursing Service of Damfa Health Centre, Lydia Fusseni, advised participants, especially those who could not visit the hospital frequently, to constantly examine themselves at home for early detection and treatment of any unusual lump.

She said breast-feeding mothers were less prone to breast cancer, explaining that hormonal changes during breast feeding reduced the life-time exposure of the breast to hormones like estrogen, which promotes cancer cell growth.

She said breast cancer affected both genders and urged the public to be circumspect with their breasts at all times.

It is necessary to always examine your breast. Dont wait till you have an issue and wait for it to become chronic before you come to the hospital.

You can check every month at a clinic, and you can also do self-check, if you dont want to come to the hospital, the Deputy Director of Nursing advised.

Ms Fusseni, also used the occasion to appeal to the government to make the cost of treatment of breast cancer affordable as well as the adequate provision of breast care centres and screening equipment across the country.
Develop mining areas deliberately: Scrap levies on exploration - Chambers of mines to govt

Suleiman Mustapha & Justice Agbenorsi Oct - 26 - 2023 , 09:06

The Ghana Chamber of Mines has called on the government to be deliberate about developing mining host communities and not focus only on the revenue.

The Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Dr Sulemanu Koney, said revenue from mining communities must not be left to sink in the Consolidated Fund but must be redirected into those communities to ensure development for the people.

Taking his turn at the Daily Graphic Twitter (X) Dialogue series on the theme: What will Ghana lose if there were no mining, Dr Koney said cities and towns where mining took place such as Johannesburg in South Africa had been fully developed because governments decided several years ago to transform that city with revenue from the mines.

If we dont ask these questions and the focus generally is on revenue which we will get from these companies, obviously the bulk will go into the Consolidated Fund, and only a minute portion will go back to the community, he added.

He was answering questions on why mining areas in the country were least developed, a phenomenon which makes citizens wonder whether it was beneficial to mine or not.

Scrap exploration taxes

The Chamber of Mines executive also called on the government to exempt exploration companies from the payment of taxes to reduce the risk and high cost of mining explorations.

That would help to reduce the barriers for exploration companies seeking to enter the mining industry which constitutes Foreign Direct Investment for the country.

Dr Koney said aside from mining expeditions being risky, the probability of making a commercial find was also low, hence the need to remove the taxes to make exploration easier.

He said the cost of holding land by exploration purposes, among other costs, induced stress on many of the exploration firms in addition to the different types of taxes they paid.

Dr Koney pointed out that mining exploration was very expensive, yet it was quite uncertain that the investor would make any commercial find.

But we have a fiscal regime which requires companies to make some payments even before digging the ground and that is the challenge that we have, he pointed out.

Under the current fiscal regime, exploration companies that come to the country for mining operations are required to pay taxes even before making a commercial find.

Reacting to the issue, Dr Koney said the advocacy had been on the chambers radar for over 20 years in spite of engaging successive governments on the matter.

To buttress his point and also paint a clearer picture of the impact on exploration firms, Dr Koney said if an exploration firm brought in capital of $10 million, about 22 per cent would go into paying taxes and levies even before they made a commercial find, a situation which he described as worrying.

We need to lower the barrier to entry for exploration because it serves our interest as a country.

Ideally, we should do the exploration ourselves before we invite exploration firms to come and mine but because the resources are not there, we do it the other way round.

When companies outsource drilling services, it comes with Value Added Tax (VAT).

When they outsource assaying services, they also pay VAT on them and we believe this is not too good for exploration, the Chief Executive of the Ghana Chamber of Mines, explained.

Dr Koney recommended that after firms had made a commercial find, the government could now negotiate with the exploration company to consider taxes and the next steps towards mining and production.

If no mining

Responding to questions on the contribution of mining to the economic development of the country, Dr Koney pointed to the sectors fiscal payment of taxes, which according to the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), contributed GH6.82 billion, together with the quarrying sub-sector, including dividend payment of GH435 million in 2022.

The minerals sector also consolidated its position as the country's largest source of foreign exchange in 2022.

Data from the Bank of Ghana also shows that revenue from the export of minerals accounts for 39 per cent of gross merchandise receipts, exceeding the outturns of crude oil, cocoa and other export commodities.

The Chamber of Mines executive stated that the country would have lost $1.41 billion in mineral export revenue routed through the Bank of Ghana and 2.73 billion that passed through the commercial banks.

This foreign exchange helps to boost the countrys reserves.

Royalties

Mr Koney said years after the passage of the Minerals Development Fund (MDF) Act, 2016 (Act 912), the government was yet to fully implement the law that provided the legal basis for the disbursement and management of ceded royalties received from mining companies.

He noted that although the law required that any person or organisation that received revenue on behalf of MDF was required within one business day to remit the money to the MDF, that had not been the case, saying: Even from the get-go, the collection is a problem.

Local content

Dr Koney also pointed out that the country was doing extremely well with regard to local content in the mining industry.

He said local content was one of the things that the chamber had been vigorously pushing for in the last few years.

We recently launched the standards for electric cables and the chamber devoted resources into developing local standard for electric cables which are produced by local cable manufacturing firms and supplied to the mining industry, Dr Koney explained.

That was to help boost the capacity of the local manufacturers not only in terms of production, but standards and quality, he added.

The Chief Executive of the chamber said last year alone, mining companies spent $2.81 billion on goods and services sourced from producers and suppliers within the country, $43.30 million on corporate social investments, $1.4 billion on taxes, levies and duties, and $678 million on salaries and emoluments of employees.
Ghana, Nigeria sign agreement to strengthen defence cooperation

Daily Graphic Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:13

Ghana and Nigeria have reaffirmed their decision to strengthen the existing defence cooperation between the two countries.

In line with that, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) and the Nigerian High Commission in Accra last Tuesday.

The Commandant of the centre, Major-General Richard Addo Gyane, signed on behalf of the establishment while the Nigeria High Commissioner in Ghana, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (retd), appended his signature for his country.

This was contained in a statement issue in Accra yesterday.

Commitment

Both countries expressed commitment to share their common objectives of adding new dimensions and also raising the level of their bilateral defence cooperation.

They also reaffirmed their collective responsibility to ensure regional stability and security in Africa in line with the spirit of the Charter of the UN to strengthen peace and security, confidence and stability in the world, the statement added.

The agreement also sets out conditions, as well as the form of activities on training and deployment, including financing of a Course Director from Nigeria to the KAIPTC.

It would further assist in building regional capabilities and training institutions as part of support activities for conflict prevention, peacekeeping and peacebuilding in Africa and the world.
Ghanaian exporters pay full duties to AfCFTA member countries

Maclean Kwofi & Emelia Ennin Abbey Oct - 26 - 2023 , 14:12

Some African countries are still demanding full export duties from Ghanaian exporters trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This is three years after the commencement of the pilot phase of trading under the continental free trade agreement involving eight countries, including Ghana, Cameroun, Kenya, Egypt, Mauritius, Rwanda, Tanzania and Tunisia.

However, Ghana has waived duties on imported goods under the trade agreement.

AfCFTA

The Head of Export at the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Charles Arthur Ntiri, who made this known when he interacted with journalists after opening of the 8th media seminar on shipping and logistics by the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA) in Accra last Wednesday, stated that the situation was unfair and had been reported to the AfCFTA Secretariat for redress.

The issue we have now is that we started under the guided trade arrangement but when our (Ghanaian) goods arrive in the other countries, they are not recognising them rather they demand full payment of duties.

Certificate of origin

Mr Ntiri noted that so far 98 certificates of origin to 55 Ghanaian firms have successfully registered with the GNCCI to secure certifications of origin that will enable them to start trading under AfCFTA.

A certificate of origin is a document which attests that a product listed has met certain criteria to be considered as originating from a particular country.

It is issued by the Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and approved by the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).

Seminar objective

The 8th Media Seminar on the theme Contemporary trends and developments in Ghanas shipping and logistics industry, was aimed at bringing to the fore the speedy evolvement of the shipping and logistics sector as one of the key drivers of the socio-economic development of the country.

It brought together representatives from selected media houses and the executives of the Ghana Journalists Association.

The Chief Executive Officer of GSA, Benonita Bismarck, said the freight rates negotiated by the GSA for 2023 and 2024 business years were hailed by the Committee of Freight Forwarders Association (CoFFA) because it reflected a deep understanding of the needs of the shipper.

She said the GSA recognised the media as an indispensable stakeholder in its mission to effectively protect and promote the interest of shippers in Ghana.

This was because providing the information on the appropriate processes, regulations, laws and requirements along the entire value chain to shippers regularly would save the shippers money and time and help them not to flout the laws.

The strong partnership between the GSA and the media, she said, would help the GSA in its pursuit of protecting and promoting the interest of shippers in Ghana in relation to sea, land, rail and air transport.

seminar

The seminar, she said, would equip and empower the media to take up the numerous positive developments of the authority in the sector to the world, particularly highlighting the role GSA continued to play in ensuring the sector remained a viable propeller of socio-economic well-being for shippers, the government and the citizenry of the country.
International optometry confab held in Ho

Alberto Mario Noretti Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:12

The annual General Meeting and Scientific Session 2023 of the Ghana Optometric Association and African Council of Optometry has been held in Ho.

About 300 optometrists from Ghana, Botswana, Djibouti, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo and Zimbabwe attended the two-day event on the theme Expanding Optometric Practice in Africa  Focus on Training, Scope and Legislation.

Optometry is a specialised healthcare profession that involves examining the eyes and related structures for defects or abnormalities.

The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, in a speech read on his behalf at the opening ceremony last week Thursday, said optometry as a health profession played a vital role in ensuring the well-being of communities.

It is through the eyes that we perceive the world and it is the optometrist who safeguards and enhances vision, he added.

Dr Letsa said as the demand for eye care services increased, it was imperative that practices were adapted and evolved to meet the growing needs of the people.

Shared responsibility

He stated that eye care was a shared responsibility and all stakeholders needed to demonstrate maturity and collaborate for the good of the country, with a specific focus on training, scope and legislation in the area of optometry in the interest of the nation.

The Regional Minister said training was the foundation on which any successful optometry practice was built, and that required huge investments in the education and training of optometrists to ensure they acquired the knowledge and skills for the highest quality of care.

Continuing education programmes, workshops and conferences should, therefore, be encouraged to keep optometrists up-to-date with the latest advancement in the field, he told the participants.

Diverse scope

The Head of Department of Optometry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science of Technology (KNUST), Dr Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo, in a keynote address, noted that the scope of optometry practice across Africa was diverse, reflecting variations in healthcare systems, regulations and educational resources.

He said in recent years, the world had increasingly recognised the crucial role of optometric care, and Ghana was no exception.

The expansion of optometry practice, he said, necessitated a holistic approach that addressed training, the scope of practice, and legislation, which was essential for ensuring high-quality eye care services reached all segments of the population.

The President of the African Council of Optometry (AFCO), Frank Magupa, commended Ghana for hosting this years meeting at rather short notice, saying that it demonstrated the solidarity among the member countries and their commitment to the progress of the organisation.

The two conference topics were: Grading of diabetic retinopathy and Contrast sensitivity and driving.
Non-payment of water bills: GWCL drags 85 Tamale customers to court

Mohammed Fugu Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:06

Eight-five institutions and individuals in the Tamale Metropolis have been hauled before the Tamale District Court by the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL), over their non-payment of water bills.

The customers owe a total of GH679,765 and have not settled their bills despite disconnections and follow-ups by GWCL, officials of the company said.

Some of the customers who appeared before the court last Tuesday had showed proof of part payment, while others negotiated for paying in instalments from three to six months.

The court, presided over by Derick Annan, slapped a cost ranging from GH1,000 to GH1,500 against the defaulters for unduly failing to pay the bills.

The case has been adjourned to November 14, 2023.

Notice

Counsel for the GWCL, Douglas Kwame Adjei, told the Daily Graphic that the company had served several notices to the customers to settle the bills but they failed to comply, which necessitated the legal action.

He indicated that out of the 85 defaulters, 17 of them who owed a total of GH237,747.94 had so far appeared before the court and that the rest would appear in batches.

The company is really under these debts because they pay electricity bill, salaries and other production cost, so if these monies are locked up it means that it is being crippled.

Illegal connections

The Northern Regional Public Relations Officer of the GWCL, Nii Abbey Nicholas, expressed satisfaction about the outcome of the court hearing and said it would go a long way to serve as a deterrent to others.

He indicated that 31 customers were also being investigated by the police for allegedly engaging in illegal connections, who would be sent to court in the coming days.
Govt urged to provide adequate breast care centres

Diana Mensah Oct - 26 - 2023 , 07:01

The Government has been called upon to provide adequate breast care centres across the district and regional levels, for easy access.

Also, the government has been urged to retool health centres with enough treatment machines for breast cancer screening.

The Executive Director of Meena Breast Cancer Foundation, Ibrahim Oppong Kwarteng, made the call at a news conference in Accra recently.

Inadequate infrastructure, he said, had put a lot of pressure on the few doctors and facilities in the country, thereby forcing patients to resort to readily available herbal medicines and treatments.

Subsequently, he appealed to the government to include the cost of biopsy and pathology under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), and to make the cost of surgery and chemotherapy free, indicating that the cost covered under the NHIS was too small for breast cancer treatment.

Regular Sensitisation

Mr Kwarteng advised stakeholders in the health sector to not overemphasise their energies only in October, as people were getting breast cancer every minute.

Our background investigations show that breast cancer patients are not given enough counselling and education on lifestyle during treatment.

Most of the patients that come to us complain of not having an idea of what to eat and what not to, what to expect during treatment and so on, he said.

A Programme Officer at the Ministry of Health, Abena Kumiwa Osei, said the ministry was ready to collaborate with any organisation to bridge the gaps in awareness, access to health care and support for those affected by the disease.

She said it was essential to raise awareness to dispel myths and promote early detection and prevention adding: Breast cancer does not discriminate, irrespective of your age.

The Board Member of Meena Breast Cancer, Eric Odei Brobbey, said there should be a proper referral system where patients can report cases of breast cancer.

Lack of proper referral systems and treatment machines usually delay treatment, causing patients' condition to worsen, since they have to wait for more than a month or two after surgery to access the radiotherapy machine.

Sometimes, even the few machines available break down, leaving patients stranded, he said.
Lydia Ezit of The Mirror newspaper nominated for biotech award

Graphic.com.gh Oct - 26 - 2023 , 16:20

A senior reporter with The Mirror newspaper, Lydia Ezit, has been nominated for the 2023 Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) media awards in Ghana.

The Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology (OFAB) media award is part of an effort to promote excellence in science journalism and appreciate the contribution of journalists in promoting sustainable agricultural technologies.

The OFAB Media Awards provide an opportunity to help enhance knowledge-sharing and awareness creation of agricultural biotechnology.

This is to help raise the understanding and appreciation of the technology and contribute to building an enabling environment for informed and timely decision making.

Ms Ezit would be honoured together with other journalists who have contributed to discussions on the agriculture sector in Ghana.

This years edition, which is the sixth of its kind, is on the theme: Credible science reporting; A tool for science-led economic development in Ghana."

The OFAB media awards operates in 10 countries, namely Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Malawi.

Winners from each country will compete at the continental level.
President Akufo-Addos alma mater appeals to him for support

Donald Ato Dapatem Oct - 26 - 2023 , 08:06

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addos alma mater, Kinbu Senior High Technical School in Accra, has appealed to him to assist to reclaim encroached lands of the school for infrastructural development to take care of the increasing number of students.

It said the 149-year-old schools lands had been encroached upon by state institutions, transports owners, market women and other people, encumbering the growth and expansion of the school which was set up by then Governor Samuel Rowe in 1874.

The Headmistress of the school, Sylvia M. Letcher-Teye, made the appeal when the management and some staff of the school paid a courtesy call on President Akufo-Addo at the Jubilee House.

They also appealed to him to use his good office to assist the school with infrastructure and other developmental projects.

150th anniversary

The call was used to invite the President to the schools 150th anniversary celebration in September next year.

During the visit, they presented President Akufo-Addo with a citation as a former student.

Education

President Akufo-Addo received his primary education in Accra, first attending the Government Boys School and then Rowe Road School, now Kinbu Senior High Technical, and later went to the United Kingdom for his secondary education, studying at Lancing College (195761).

Upgrading infrastructure

Ms Letcher-Teye indicated that the school had been doing well academically, but to improve it would require upgrading of the infrastructure to cater for the increasing number of students which had moved from 1,200, in recent times, to 2,000.

She said the school had about 130 teaching and non-teaching staff but realised that a lot of people had taken their land which included the one used to build the Octagon, while the rest of the land had been occupied by squatters, market women and GPRTU.

She said reclaiming the lands would afford the school, which is a day school, the opportunity to expand the school infrastructure to include a modern Assembly Hall that can accommodate the 2,000 students and a boarding facility to be able to monitor and control the students to achieve better examination results.

Ms Letcher-Teye explained that the TVET Examination Unit centre, which had occupied the schools land, could be moved to their new place so that Kinbu School could use the land to build a boarding facility to accommodate the increased number of students, groom them very well to become the future leaders.

Some of the squatters, she indicated, included those around the Accra Metro Education Office, the GPRTU, market women.

She suggested that they could be evacuated from the place for an AstroTurf sport field to be constructed, adding that the burnt structures at the metro area could also be demolished for the school to have access to those lands.

She said the school had no bus while the headmistress office also did not have official means of transport and pleaded for support.

Benefit

President Akufo-Addo commended the school authorities for the visit and the citation and said he had not been at the school for a long time and promised to visit the school and the Junior School at Adabraka.

Regarding the various issues, he gave an assurance that he would personally push for them to be addressed noting that clearly you should get some benefit from my being in the seat as President of Ghana.

We will make sure that something positive happens, he added.
Zoomlion Foundation, partners marks health and handwashing awareness campaign

GraphicOnline Oct - 26 - 2023 , 08:58

Zoomlion Foundation has observed this year's Global Hand Washing Day with 3,000 Zoomkids Club members at Nii Sowah Din Cluster of Schools in Adentan Municipality of Accra.

As part of the activities to mark the day, GIZ, Appointed Times Screen Printing Limited and other partners provided free health screening for the 3,000 Zoomkids and free NHIS enrolment for an additional 2,000 Zoomkids and teaching staff.

The children were screened for malaria, eye, nose, blood sugar, eye, while the adults were also screened for breast cancer.

Some of the school children were also registered with the National Health Insurance Scheme, while others had their membership renewed.

The Communications and Corporate Affairs Director of Zoomlion Ghana Ltd, Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah, noted that the objective of Global Handwashing Day is to get the children to know the need to regularly wash their hands while also encouraging their mates and family members to do the same.

"By helping the children to imbibe such good habits will greatly impact their lives which will have a ripple effect on the country's economic and health budgets," she stressed.

Alluding to the theme "Clean hands are within reach" she said, "We are here to help them to remember that handwashing is within reach".

She added that every year, the Zoomkids join international and national partners to celebrate the Global Hand Washing Day.

The Public Relations Manager of the Adenta Municipal Education Directorate, Gloria Mensah, explained that the motive for partnering with the Zoomlion Foundation is to promote hand washing education for the school children in the municipality.

She commended Zoomlion Foundation for providing handwashing facilities to the schools within the municipality.

She advised the school children to take handwashing very seriously and also educate their siblings at home on good environmental practices.

The National Coordinator for Zoomlion Foundation, Thomas Narh Korley, intimated that with the dangers imposed by infectious diseases, it was imperative to take precautions and preventive measures and not wait for the worst to happen before doing what is right.

"Infectious diseases are becoming an issue all over the world, we need to take precautions and preventive measures, we shouldn't wait till a situation like Coronavirus before telling the children to wash their hands," he explained.

"We believe that if the children know how to protect themselves when they grow up, we wouldn't have to spend so many resources for vaccines to treat sickness because they will already be taking precautions daily, he observed.

The Coordinator hinted that all the schools involved in the project will receive logistical support to promote good environmental practices.

According to Mr. Korley, the Zoomlion Foundation together with the partners have planned a month-long activities to observe the Global Hand Washing Day. Some of the activities include talk shows, drama shows, roadshows, health screening, NHIS registration and demonstration of handwashing.

"We want to protect their health so they can stay in school and learn and become productive citizens, he remarked.

The partners include GES, GIZ, Appointed Time printers, Coca-Cola, Blueskies, Kasapreko, Golden Exotics Limited, NHIA and the Ghana Health Service.
8 Parties seek audience with National Cathedral board

Daily Graphic Politics Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:42

Eight political parties which have no representative in Parliament, known as Political Parties Outside Parliament (PPOP), have requested audience with the Board of Trustees of the National Cathedral of Ghana.

They are the Liberal Party of Ghana (LPG), Great Consolidated Popular Party (GCPP), National Democratic Party (NDP), Convention Peoples Party (CPP), Peoples National Convention (PNC), All People's Congress (APC), Ghana Union Movement (GUM) and Ghana Freedom Party (GFP)

A letter signed by the general secretaries of the parties explained that the request was aimed at obtaining first-hand information on the work done so far as well as the challenges the board had encountered to enable the parties to arrive at well-informed decisions to be able to provide meaningful feedback.

The general secretaries of the LPG, Jerry Owusu Appauh ; GCPP, Citizen Ato Dadzie; NDP, Alhaji Mohammed Frimpong; CPP; Nana Yaa Jantuah; PNC, Janet Nabla; APC ,Mordecai Thiombiano; GUM,Anthony Gold Ahinful, and GFP, George Afful, were those who signed the letter.

The convener of the group is the General Secretary of the LPG, Mr Appauh.

Cathedral

The National Cathedral of Ghana, per an artists impression, will be an elaborate 5000-seater auditorium born out of a pledge President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, then presidential candidate, made ahead of Election 2016.

It was his pledge that if God made him win the 2016 election and he became President of Ghana, he would build the edifice to honour God.

Since its inception, however, the project has become the subject of many controversies.

Agents of development

The statement stressed that the parties were agents of development who were concerned that despite the investments made into the project, it could become a total waste if certain conditions were not addressed.

As agents of development who are concerned about the investments already made into this project and the prospects that this project has, we are perturbed that if care is not taken and conversations are not carried out in their proper context it can render this project moribund and the investments made into it will become a total waste, it said.
Bawumia debunks vote buying allegations

Mohammed Fugu Politics Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:37

The Vice-President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused his opponents of adopting a deliberate campaign of peddling falsehood against him as they sense defeat ahead of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential primaries on November 4.

He said allegations such as vote buying, sitting Members of Parliament (MPs) going unopposed, and preventing Polling Station Executives and Electoral Area Coordinators from voting in the presidential primary were mere fabrications to smear his image.

Dr Bawumia said this when he was addressing delegates in the Tatale-Sanguli Constituency as part of his campaign tour of the Northern Region.

The NPP flag bearer hopeful is on a week-long tour of the region, engaging and soliciting votes from the delegates ahead of the November 4 presidential primary.

Voting rights

Dr Bawumia said it was not possible for him to stop Polling Station Executives and Electoral Coordinators from voting in the presidential primaries because it was enshrined in the party's constitution.

What I actually want to do is to push for reforms to allow Electoral Area Coordinators and Polling Station Executives to vote in the Regional Executive Elections.

So we want to rather expand and include everybody and not to reduce and so that lie must be put to rest, he noted.

MPs

Dr Bawumia added, I will never say a sitting MP must go unopposed.

There must be a consensus in every constituency and so that is a lie".

"My opponents are sensing defeat so they have adopted new tactics and that is if you miss the ball don't miss the man.

They have decided to spread lies and to create disunity among the party members," he said.

He, therefore, appealed to the delegates to repose their confidence in him to enable him to lead the party for a resounding victory in the 2024 general election.

Delegates

The NPP would hold its presidential primary on Saturday, November 4, 2023 to elect a flag bearer for the party in the 2024 general election.

About 200,000 delegates are expected to cast their votes in the election and voting would commence at 7 a.m. and close at 2 p.m per the guidelines issued by the party for the conduct of the November 4 polls.

The delegates for the election comprise all members of the National Council, National, Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, Electoral Area Coordinators, five polling station executives in each polling station (Chairman, Secretary, Organiser, Youth and Women Organisers).

The others are 15 members of the National Council of Elders to be elected from among themselves, Members of Parliament (MP), past national officers, three representatives of each of the special organs of the party (Women Organisers, Nasara and Youth wings), 12 delegates from every external branch (27 branches in all).

The rest are founding members who were signatories to the registration documents of the party at the EC, one TESCON representative from each recognised tertiary institution, all party card-bearing ministers and deputies, and all metropolitan, municipal and district chief executives.

Contenders

Those who are in the race for the single slot of the party with Dr Bawumia are the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central in the Central Region, Ken Ohene Agyapong; former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and a former MP for Mampong in the Ashanti Region, Francis Addai-Nimoh.
IGP assures NPP Presidential Elections Committee of adequate security on Nov 4

Dickson Worlanyo Dotse Politics Oct - 26 - 2023 , 11:54

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has assured the New Patriotic Party (NPP) of a strong police presence during its upcoming presidential elections.

He said this was because the Ghana Police Service is committed to deepening the nation's democracy so that Ghana will continue being a beacon of hope in the sub-region and on the continent, and for people to continuously learn from the nation.

"All we require from you is that you support us in order to play our roles and with that we will be able to ensure that the police, the EC will do their work and all the people who will be voting across the country will come out freely and willingly to vote and all the agents will do what they are supposed to do," he said.

The IGP was speaking at an engagement with the NPP Presidential Elections Committee and the Electoral Commission (EC) for preparations towards the party's bid to elect a leader for the 2024 general elections.

Present at the meeting were Former Speaker of Parliament, Rev. Prof. Aaron Mike Oquaye who is the Chairman of the committee; other members of the elections committee; the General Secretary of the NPP, Justin Frimpong Kodua; the Deputy Chairman of the EC in-charge of Operations, Samuel Tettey, who led the EC's delegation; and representatives of the various aspirants.

Dr. George Akuffo Dampare noted that the Ghana Police Service had successfully conducted a similar exercise with the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and used the opportunity to thank all the political parties, particularly the NPP, for accepting to collaborate and engage.

"We have worked with the party for nearly two years now to position it leaders across all the levels from constituency, regional, national and now working towards electing a presidential candidate," he said.

"The first leg we worked together and we were able to have a successful exercise We have the second leg of that exercise and we also look forward to the final leg next year as you elect your parliamentary candidates," the Inspector-General of Police added.

Background

The NPP will hold its presidential primary on Saturday, November 4, 2023, to elect a flag bearer for the party in the 2024 general election.

Persons contesting to become the flagbearer of the party are; a former Member of Parliament (MP) for Mampong Constituency, Francis Addai-Nimoh; the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin Central, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong Kennedy Agyapong, a former Minister of Food and Agriculture, Dr. Owusu Afriyie Akoto and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.

About 200,000 delegates are expected to cast their votes in the election and voting would commence at 7 a.m. and close at 2 p.m per the guidelines issued by the party for the conduct of the November 4 polls.

The delegates for the election comprise of all members of the National Council, National, Regional and Constituency Executive Committees, Electoral Area Coordinators, five polling station executives in each polling station (Chairman, Secretary, Organiser, Youth and Women Organisers).
Mahama extols Canada chapter of NDC

Daily Graphic Politics Oct - 26 - 2023 , 06:52

Former President John Dramani Mahama has expressed delight about the vibrancy of the Canada chapter of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

As such, he said he was personally going to spread the word about how lively the operations of the party was because most people had the misconception that the party was dormant in Toronto, and Canada as a whole.

"Most people have the thinking that the NDC is not very vibrant here in Canada.

I will go and tell them that we have a very strong, vibrant, energetic, enthusiastic chapter in Canada, Mr Mahama stressed.

Visit

Mr Mahama, who is the NDC flag bearer for the 2024 general election, made the statement during a fundraising lunch hosted by the Canada Chapter of the party in Toronto.

He was in Canada to present a paper at the University of Calgary during the Universities Studying Slavery (USS) Conference 2023, held in Halifax.

Mr Mahama took the opportunity to connect with members of his party, the Ghanaian community and potential investors in Ghana and Africa.

After his address, Mahama and his wife engaged and interacted with the party supporters, posing for photos and listening to their concerns and advice.

He reassured the attendees of his commitment to serving Ghanaians and his determination to lead the NDC to victory in the next election.

In addition to meeting with NDC members, he also engaged with the Ghanaian communities in Halifax and Calgary.

He also spoke at business forums organised by the Canada Ghana Chamber of Commerce and the Ghana Association in Canada.

Gratitude

Mr Mahama expressed his gratitude to the members for tirelessly contributing their time, effort and resources to raise funds in support of the party, adding that such activities would assist the party in executing its vision for a better Ghana in 2025.

The former President, in the same vein, reminded his audience of the importance of hard work, unity and continuous support if the party was going to win the upcoming 2024 elections.

In recognising the chapters dedication to fostering stronger ties within the Ghanaian community in Canada, he encouraged the branch executives of the various provinces to work with the chapter executives in spreading the NDCs message of hope in an attempt to win more support for the party.

Mr Mahama used the opportunity to congratulate the chapter for its solidarity and strong support for their fellow member, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, to retain the seat in the recent by-election.

He further praised the members for their commitment to the NDC's values, highlighting their impressive participation in the fundraising event and expressed his appreciation to the delegation of chiefs who attended the programme.

He said their presence reflected the desire and commitment to build a Ghana that met the aspirations of all.
Dr. Kim Dale will be resigning as the president of Western Wyoming Community College.

Dale spoke with Western's Board of Trustees during their normal meeting last Thursday, October 19, and presented the board with a letter explaining her resignation and requesting release from her contract.

"After much reflection and a heavy heart, I am requesting release from my current three-year employment contract as president of Western Wyoming Community College, effective July 12, 2024," Dale stated in the letter.

Family circumstances require Dale and her husband to move back to Fort Collins, Color...
BLM extends public comment period on Resource Management Plan Draft

After much discussion in Sweetwater County and across Wyoming concerning the Bureau of Land Managements Resource Management Plan (RMP) Draft for the Rock Springs Field Office, the BLM has agreed to extend the comment period on the draft, giving the public an additional 60 days to weigh in on the RMP.

At the request of the state of Wyoming and other stakeholders, the Bureau of Land Management is extending the comment period on the Draft Rock Springs Resource Management Plan, Draft Environmental Impact Statement and proposed Areas of Critical Environmental Concern, a BLM press relea...
The wall on the pathway leading up to the entrance of Fort Phil is symbolic of what once stood from 1866-1868, as the original fort and all of the structures inside were burned to the ground by the Northern Cheyenne Native American tribe following the withdrawal of U.S. Army troops.

SHERIDAN - Fort Phil Kearny was established by the U.S. Army on July 15, 1866 with the original purpose of protecting freighters and travelers along the Bozeman Trail from Native American tribes. Standing for only two years, the fort would become the site of a deadly battle that spelled death for 81 men.

Today, the fort's bloodied history is the catalyst for ghost stories aplenty.

Of two major battles at the fort, the one with the highest number of fatalities was the Fetterman Fight, also known as the Fetterman Massacre or, by the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho Native American trib...
The dance troupe Danza, Corazon y Cultura performed at a special event sponsored by the Sweetwater County Historical Museum last Saturday as part of the museum's Dia de los Muertos (or "Day of the Dead") celebrations.

More than two hundred people attended the Sweetwater County Historical Museum's special Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) event at the Clock Tower Park in Green River on Saturday.

As featured in the animated 2017 Walt Disney film Coco, Dia de los Muertos is a holiday for honoring the dead. It originated in Mexico but is now celebrated in many Latin American countries. Celebrants create displays called ofrendas (offerings), using items such as food, flowers, photos, and sugar skulls in remembrance of family members who have passed away. Typically, Dia de los Muertos begins on October 31 and lasts through November 2.

The event's highlight was a series of performance by "Danza, Corazon, y Cultura," a seven-member cultural troupe performing traditional Mexican dances in full costume, including dances from a range of Mexican states, such as Veracruz, Michoacan, Nayarit, and Jalisco.

Mexican-themed children's craft activities were offered, including making calavera masks, coloring pages, and decorating sugar skulls. Refreshments, including pan de muerto (a special Mexican bread), champurrado (Mexican hot chocolate), and Mexican soda were served.

Dakota Riddle Children who came to the Sweetwater County Historical Museum's Dia de los Muertos celebrations were invited to get involved, including learning to dance with the dance troup Danza, Corazon y Cultura.

Executive Director Dave Mead extended the museum's special thanks to Yolanda Covarrubias and her family for the champurrado and the pan de muerto, Victor Hiler of the Hiler Insurance Agency, who donated the Mexican soda, Bella and Cecilia Romero-Adkins, who helped museum staff create the sugar skulls, and the Romero-Adkins family and Emilio Sanchez of Green River, who generously volunteered their time to help run the event. Mead also expressed particular appreciation and admiration for the talent and hard work of the Danza, Corazon, y Cultura performers, Joaquin and Rosaura Barrera of Rock Springs, and Elia Marquez, Jacob Diaz, Luis Diaz, Anna Martin-Hernandez, and Miranda Salas of Green River.

Check out this year's museum ofrenda - and the many other exhibits - at the Sweetwater County Historical Museum, 3 E. Flaming Gorge Way in Green River. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there is no charge for admission.
Women's Club President Marcia Volner joins Chairman April Dittman with the items collected to be donated to help young people in foster care. October 22-28 is General Federation of Women's Club Advocates for Children Week. This year April Dittman, Chairman of the Women's Club of Sweetwater County Junior's Special Program section, chose to collect items for young people in foster care as the project. The items in the picture were collected at the club's October 17 general meeting and will be given to Drag for a Cause, which is collecting even more items for young people in foster care.

The GFWC Women's Club of Sweetwater County met for their General Meeting on October 17 at Siam King. The speaker for the luncheon was Stephanie Dupape from Wyoming Cancer Resource Services. She spoke about her program and some of the services such as Healthy You Class, Various Support Groups and resources available. She can help through Wyoming Cancer Resource with mammogram, colonoscopy and cervical cancer screening costs. She also talked about mammograms starting at age 40 and things to watch for as well as myths about breast cancer.

The next general meeting will be November 21 at 11:30. It will be a potluck at White Mountain Library. The speaker will be Detective Holtzgraffe from the Green River Police Department. She will talk about her therapy program, her therapy dog Buddy and how the comfort bags that we make for the police are used and what is most valuable to have in them.

Holiday House was discussed and members encouraged to be working on crafts and thinking about baked goods to make. The Raffle items are over 20 now. We have generous community businesses that have donated items. These include Sapporo, Home Depot, Harbor Freight, Ace Hardware, Mac&Co, Elements Integrative Wellness, CTS, our Hostess Carmen Lakey and her daughter, Schwab's tire, Coal Train Coffee Depot, T's Barking Boutique, Wyoming Work Wearhouse, The Yarn and the Tale and more to come. The Holiday House will be at 518 Deer Creek in Rock Springs. It will run from Friday December 1, 4 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday December 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The raffle drawing will be at 1 on December 2. The hostess Carmen Lakey has selected Alzheimer's to be the recipient of 10% of our raffle proceeds. Tickets go on sale from members November 1 and will be for sale at the holiday house as will. The price of one ticket is $5 and 6 for $20. The entry cost will be $5 per person and children under 12 free.

The club will be donating a Christmas basket to the YWCA Festival of Trees to help raise money for their programs.

The GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship application is on the GFWC. org website and may be turned in until February. This is a scholarship for women who are victims of Domestic Abuse.

Information was passed out about the Wyoming Veterans Commission and their Highly Rural Transportation to VA or VA authorized health care facilities for VA authorized appointments is now available in our county. The Program Coordinator, Tobbie Cline, may be reached at 307-275-6723 for more information and to schedule travel help. The club will be placing this information at various locations around the county including libraries and senior centers. Fliers on this service as well as magnets on the Veterans Crisis Line you access by dialing 988 were passed out as well so that members may give them out to appropriate places.

They were privileged to initiate a new member, Karla Thibeault, into the club.

Members in attendance were: Jacki Allison, Cindy Moore, Annette Burkey, Betty Lou Auld, Leslie Jo Gatti, Karla Thibeault, Karla Roich, Lois Hebert, Portia Wahl, Jennie Malonek, Betty Jean Carter, Maggie Choate, Charlene Stillion, Diane Maestas, Kimberly Kellum, Marcia Volner, Susan Arguello, Edna Larsen Michele Long and Lynn Mornar. Guests were Sarina McCord and Heather Hager and children.
The smartphone market has been in decline for some time now, and China is no exception. Canalys revealed the biggest smartphone market saw 5% fewer shipments (66.7 million) in Q3 2023, compared with the same three-month period last year (69.8 million). However things are finally start to look up as the shipments are higher than they were in Q2.

Honor managed to climb to the top of the market in Mainland China in a tight competition that saw a 2.7 million unit difference between the first and the fifth biggest vendor, Xiaomi.

Honor gained momentum in sales through the X50 series, which were presented as a durability improvement. Oppo (combined with OnePlus) remained second, while Apple got to third thanks to the launch of the new iPhone 15 series.

Company Q3 '23 shipments

in million Q3 '23

Market share Q3 '22 shipments

in million Q3 '22

Market share Annual growth Honor 11.8 18% 12.0 17% -1% Oppo 10.9 16% 12.1 17% -10% Apple 10.6 16% 11.3 16% -6% vivo 10.4 16% 14.1 20% -26% Xiaomi 9.1 14% 9.0 13% 0% Others 13.9 21% 11.4 16% 21% Total 66.7 100% 69.8 100% -5%

Analysts pointed out that Honor and Oppo are offering digital financial tools for distributors, while Xiaomi is allowing partners to buy Mi Stores, optimize resource allocation and even expand them.

Closer relations between vendors and retailers are the new big thing, especially after the demand downturn and inventory risks from 2022. Collaborations are now on all levels  from macro-level strategy to day-to-day operations, added Canalys Research Manager Amber Liu.

Expectations are for demand to increase gradually, after it bottomed out in Q2 2023. Companies will proactively expand product portfolios and accelerate upgrade frequency to stimulate consumer upgrades and brand switches, predicted Toby Zhu, Senior Analyst at Canalys.

Source
A few hours ago we spotted the upcoming Tecno Spark 20 in the Google Play Console, and now it's time for Tecno's sister brand Infinix to get the spotlight, since its Smart 8 has also visited the Google Play Console.

The listing has revealed some of its specs, along with a very low quality image showing its front.



Infinix Smart 8 in the Google Play Console

The Infinix Smart 8 has 3GB of RAM, runs Android 13, and is powered by the Unisoc T606 SoC, which means two things: it won't have 5G support, and it will be cheap. Its screen has 720x1612 resolution.

Previously outed details, thanks to its FCC certification, include a 5,000 mAh battery, with support for 10W fast charging. The Infinix Smart 8 will measure 164 x 76 x 9 mm.

At the moment it's unclear when Infinix is planning on making the Smart 8 official, but it usually doesn't take more than a few weeks for the launch to come once a new phone has been spotted in the Google Play Console. The Smart 7 was released in February, for what it's worth, and the Smart 7 HD followed in April (weirdly enough, they both have the same screen resolution as the Smart 8 despite the name).

Via
Last month Infinix launched its Zero 30 5G and today the company announced another Zero 30 member in Indonesia with several key differences. Infinix Zero 30 4G brings a Helio G99 chipset at the helm and offers slower 45W charging speeds compared to the Zero 30 5Gs 68W charging. The new model is also IP54 dust and splash-resistant compared to the IP53 rating on the 5G version.



Infinix Zero 30 4G key specs

You still get a curved 6.78-inch AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution but the refresh rate is dialed down to 120Hz. Theres a 50MP selfie camera housed inside a punch hole cutout which records up to 4K video.



Infinix Zero 30 4G

The back houses a 108 MP ISOCELL HM6 1/1.67 main sensor with OIS alongside two 2MP auxiliary sensors. Zero 30 4G also comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage and boots XOS 13 based on Android 13.



Infinix Zero 30 4G features 108MP main cam

The device is available in Sunset Gold, Misty Green and Pearly White colors and is priced at IDR 2,899,000 ($182). Open sales will start tomorrow, October 27 exclusively from Lazada.

Source (in Indonesian)
A 17-year-old girl has been placed in custody following further investigation into an assault that police said took place on Sept. 20 at Southern High School in Santa Rita-Sumai.

She is the latest minor to be placed in custody in recent days in connection with either violence on campus or social media threats of violence against a public school community.

We urge parents to engage in conversations with their children about the consequences of violence and the responsible use of online platforms, the Guam Police Department said in a statement Thursday morning.

Detectives on Oct. 25 took the 17-year-old in custody for aggravated assault, assault, and beyond control, GPD said.

Juvenile Investigations Section detectives on Sept. 22 received information on an assault that occurred at Southern High two days earlier.

GPD said detectives conducted a follow up investigation, including interviews with witnesses and collection of evidence, which led to the minor being placed in custody.

The minor was processed and later confined at the Department of Youth Affairs.

GPD said the case is closed and referred to the Office of the Attorney General for their information and disposition.

Police said the Juvenile Investigation Section is collaborating closely with school officials to address and curtail the occurrences of fights on school premises, and will continue to work with assisting law enforcement agencies to investigate and take appropriate action against those who engage in or promote online activities that threaten the safety of students, school personnel, and the community.

Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers P3 App or contact Police Dispatch at (671) 475-8615 thru 8617.

Here are some recent arrests involving teens or students:

- Seniorita Sukion, 18, Southern High School student. She was arrested in late September and faces a charge of assault as a misdemeanor, based on local court documents. Police arrested her after viral videos depicting Sept. 19 assaults on campus circulated on social media. Documents said she admitted to assaulting a girl on campus.

- A 15-year-old boy was taken into custody on Oct. 17 in connection with social media posts threatening violence at Tiyan High School in Barrigada.

- A 15-year-old girl was taken into custody on Oct. 19 in connection with a threat of shooting at George Washington High School in Mangilao two weeks earlier.

- A 17-year-old boy was taken into custody on Oct. 23 in connection with social media posts threatening violence at George Washington High School in Mangilao.
Finalization of the government of Guams fiscal 2022 audit has been held up as agencies work to account for federal spending thats been flagged, according to Public Auditor Benjamin Cruz.

GovGuam had yet to close the books on 2022 as of Wednesday, nearly four months after the statutory deadline.

Cruz wouldnt say just how much spending has been flagged by auditors, and noted that findings cant be considered final until the agencies that are singled out have a chance to either provide an explanation or a proposed fix for questioned federal spending.

That delay was one of several that has kept the government from closing its books, he added.

Cruz is shooting to have the audit, which was due on June 30, finalized by Nov. 1. He said hes been meeting with the independent auditor hired to comb over GovGuams books, every three days.

Deloitte & Touche, in a report issued last year, flagged $41 million worth of federal spending from fiscal 2021, after GovGuams federal spending ballooned to over $1 billion during the pandemic.

More than half the questioned costs were related to the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program, something seen throughout the nation.

Until its published, I dont think Im going to comment on that, Director of Administration Ed Birn said, when asked whether the amount of spending flagged by auditors had gone up or down.

But the more federal funds you get, the more probability is that some costs are going to be questioned...weve responded to all the points, Birn said.

The amount of federal funds pumped into GovGuam more than doubled between fiscal 2019 and 2021, according to PDN files, though only $1.1 million worth of federal spending from 2019 was flagged by auditors.

Birn said all questioned costs from fiscal 2022 had been responded to as of Wednesday and provided to independent accounting firm Ernst & Young, but they could not be released until the report was finalized.

Cruz told the PDN that trying to get responses from individual agencies has just been like pulling teeth, though Birn has been working to address the issue.

I told him this is getting ridiculous. It is really too late, Cruz said.

Birn said there was a tradeoff between taking time to straighten out the books and getting the audit quickly.

Obviously, we want to reduce the number of findings (from audits). If theres something, action we can take to reduce the finding, it certainly helps in the future.

Birn noted that staff have to close out a 235-page document each year, which takes up a considerable amount of resources.

I hope everybody recognizes the effort, the huge effort that goes into producing this, he said.

Old system, accountant shortagesBoth Birn and Cruz agreed that there were a number of factors contributing to the delay of this years audit.

Ernst & Young taking over GovGuams audit from former independent auditor Deloitte & Touche has been the main part of the delay, according to Birn. Ernst & Young has had to pull files that were held by Deloitte, and just about every agency has seen some delay, on top of delays caused by Typhoon Mawar flattening the island in May.

Cruz told the PDN the outdated AS400 financial management system that the Department of Administration usesthe subject of concern in GovGuam-wide audits issued every yearhas been slowing the process down.

DOA procured a new multi-million dollar financial and human resource management system on an emergency basis during the COVID-19 pandemic. But Birn said its not set to go live until January of next year.

Birn said the brand new system will help to speed things along, but wont actually be of help until GovGuam looks to audit the books on fiscal 2024, as all the money from fiscal 2023 is still on the outdated, current computer system.

The information from the old system will be transferred to the new system. But the vendors and the staff here who are working on it have to make that happen, he said.

Cruz also chalked up the delay to the shortage of accountants at DOA and other agencies, which he attributed to low salaries. It was also an issue at the Guam Department of Education, which was helping to hold up the release of GovGuams audit by failing to close its books on time.

Birn agreed with the need for better pay, and said that a pay study for government accountants should be considered. Accountants at smaller GovGuam agencies than his, including revenue generating agencies like the utilities, are compensated quite a bit more, while his staff have to deal with billions, and theyre certainly not remunerated to recognize that fact.

Funds intactCruz said there isnt much danger of the $103 million surplus that GovGuam was tracking for fiscal 2022 not appearing. Lawmakers have already obligated close to that entire sum, the PDN reported.

The number thats in the audit thats going to be released was the number as of September 30 2022, that was, that was 13 months ago, Cruz said.
Typhoon Mawar-impacted residents will see either less money than they applied for or receive outright rejection as Disaster Unemployment Assistance checks begin rolling out, Labor Director David DellIsola said.

The first batch of DUA checks, totaling about $250,000, is already being printed, stamped, and mailed out to residents, DellIsola told the Pacific Daily News on Thursday.

Checks will be paid out in batches every two weeks moving forward, he said.

Im trying to get it to them before the holidays, he said, though he couldnt give a definite timeline for when the program will be closed out.

Over 4,500 unemployment applications were submitted to DOL by residents who said Mawar left them out of work for some period of time, the Pacific Daily news reported this month. Department of Labor officials previously put review time for claims at several weeks.

DellIsola said anyone waiting on a check can sign on to their hireguam.com profile and see how close DOL is to finishing a review of their claim.

If you see that your claim has been processed, itll show that a check has been cut, and the check number. So its all there. You dont need to call and say, Am I paid?, he noted.

But most DUA claims are being adjusted due to lack of documentation, or being rejected because residents didnt qualify at all, the labor director said.

A large portion of the rejected claims are from Compact of Free Association, or COFA, citizens, DellIsola said. They went ahead and applied despite the fact the DOL had announced they were ineligible at the outset of the program, he said.

Exclusion of COFA citizens from the program is a federal matter, he said, and we cant stop them from applying.

Others who were rejected were already unemployed before Mawar, and were disqualified.

Issues with necessary unemployment documents, and claims that appear to be larger than what they should be, will see a majority of applicants getting their payouts reduced from what they applied for.

A lot of them just we had to adjust. Because  we checked with the employer, and your business was open on July 10, but you claim up to the 16th. So we cant give you that last week. Were going to have to give you a shorter award, DellIsola said.

In other instances, the applicants employer had failed to provide proper documentation indicating that they were closed during Mawar, for how long, and why.

Any adjustments to a residents claim will be reflected on their hireguam.com profile, DellIsola said.

The review of claims is lengthy, as DUA is a much more tightly regulated federal program than the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program that residents availed of during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to DellIsola.

Were being extra careful, he said.

Residentsand GovGuamwont see any forgiveness if they are later determined to have been overpaid for their claims.

When the audit comes, if they say, Im sorry, you owe us, youre only qualified for four weeks, not eight weeks, youre going to have to pay back those other four weeks. People already spent the money, he said.

A large portion of the people applying for DUA are also back to work, he noted, and claims are typically just a few thousand dollars. Thats much smaller than pandemic unemployment claims, where people could be left without a job for months at a time, and needed the money just to survive.

I know they need it. But I want to make sure that theyre going to be clean, DellIsola said.

The federal government authorized about $9.5 million to Guam for the DUA program, PDN files show.
The Guam Memorial Hospital Authority management wants to write off, or eliminate, about $2.8 million worth of patient billings that it believes are uncollectible.

That amounts to money owed by 1,049 patients, including those covered by Medicare, SelectCare, and Staywell, GMHA chief financial officer Yuka Hechanova told the hospitals board of trustees on Wednesday night.

Most of these are including bills that are beyond our timeframe to bill and even to collect, Hechanova said.

Health insurance providers typically stop accepting billings and claims once a certain amount of time has passed from the medical service being claimed, usually between three months and a year.

Hechanova in August told lawmakers that GMH was waiting on about $50 million worth of money owed to it, including about $23 million that had never even been billed, though staff were working to fix that.

We would like the board to approve us to write off these accounts, Hechanova told the board, referring to the $2.8 million patient billings.

Hechanova on Wednesday said that management had asked the board to approve the write off of another sum deemed uncollectible, also around $2.8 million, at a recent meeting. The hospital CFO said theyre trying to chip away at the record of past-due invoices the hospital is processing.

The latest proposed resolution to write off the uncollected money also includes our corrective action  so that we can prevent these kinds of things from are being written off and we will shore up our follow-up side to make sure that they monitor these accounts, she added.

Financial staff had put several procedures and staff in place to make sure that the hospital doesnt see these types of write offs in the future, she said.

Trustees were unable to make quorum to vote on the resolution on Wednesday, due to one board member leaving during the meeting. The vote was tabled until the boards November meeting.

A recent Office of Public Accountability report stated that GMHA has been collecting just an average of 31 cents per $1 billed to safe-pay patients in fiscal 2022.

Thats worse than in fiscal 2018 when the hospital, based on a prior audit, was collecting 49 cents for every $1 billed. But the OPA report recognizes that GMHAs revenues are impacted by its mission to serve the population regardless of patients ability to pay.

Paying off debts feverishly

Hechanova said the hospital is working to get $30 million worth of recent funding from the Legislature out to vendors that GMH owes money to.

She put the amount of money owed to vendors at $26 million late last month.

The Department of Administration must make the payment, so we have to scan. I have to review all the invoices, Hechanova said.

Shes been personally working to help the two staff in accounts payable who were working to process payments to vendors.

Were really wanting to get the payments out to the vendors. Everybody has heard about the appropriation so theyre very eager to get their payment, Hechanova said.

GMH is set to meet on Nov. 1 with the Fiscal Review Committee created by Adelup earlier this month, hospital administrator Lilian Perez-Posadas said.

The committee is tasked with stabilizing the hospitals finances.

Chillers, more to be fixed

The hospital will be making a number of repairs with the $20 million in federal American Rescue Plan money that Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero recently provided, according to GMHA associate administrator for operations William Kando.

About $7 million will go to fix the aging chillers that were damaged after Typhoon Mawar. Chillers keep the hospital at an acceptable temperature to prevent infection spread and equipment damage.

Air handling units that distribute that cold air throughout the hospital will also be replaced, Kando said, at a cost of $3 million.

Various other projects include:
Guam Memorial Hospital has less than five years of life left, according to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero who, on Thursday, urged GMH medical staff to support her plans for a new medical campus in the Mangilao area.

The governor said if a deal for the land can be ironed out before years end, she wants to break ground on a new GMH by late 2024.

Opposition to the administrations proposed location for a new hospital, and the need for a multi-facility medical campus, has been mounting from both lawmakers and members of the medical community, the Pacific Daily News has reported in recent weeks. Many prefer a hospital be built in Tamuning.

Leon Guerero, who will need the backing of the Legislature to secure land for the project, told medical staff at GMH on Thursday that shes on a road show to bring accurate information about the proposal to the public.

Federal funding

The financing is there, the governor said, noting that shes in serious discussions with both the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Pentagon to try and get federal funding for the project.

She said construction of a new hospital alone is now being billed around $800 million, and funding for it is at the top of a list of priority projects that the administration has sent to military officials.

They wanted a list of priority projects that is needed here to provide the service for our people, and of course, to help minimize the impact of the military buildup, the governor said.

Opportunities to get aid from the Department of Defense is still on the table and defense officials still have a number of requests for additions to a new medical campus, including a helipad, a neonatal intensive care unit, and additional bed space in the event of a mass casualty.

FEMA officials are set to make a site inspection of GMH within a week or so, and will have to assess whether it is worthwhile to put money towards the construction of an entirely new hospital.

Their whole thing is mitigation. They want to make sure that they put money into structure so that in the next typhoon or major disaster, we can recover quickly, and they dont have to invest any more money, Leon Guerrero said.

Theres no set deadline on when a commitment to funding can be made, she said.

Appeal to medical staff

The large footprint at the Mangilao site opens up the opportunity to build a number of specialty clinics around the new hospital, pointing to the setup at hospitals in California like the Stanford Medical Center.

They have an oncology clinic, they have a pediatric clinic, they have a neurology clinic, they have a cardiology clinic (next door). So why can't we bring that concept here to Guam for our people? she said.

Dr. Tom Shieh, during the presentation, said the infrastructure right now, the medical campus already exists in Tamuning, and pointed to the surgery centers, cancer clinics, and obstetrician-gynecologist clinics that already existed in the village, including his own.

Moving the hospital near Mangilao would make travel time for both patients and doctors worse, he said.

Leon Guerrero responded that drive time to the site she was eyeingwhich she clarified is different from the Adacao site included in a previous hospital site study from Matrix Design Groupwas only slightly different from other sites analyzed.

The Department of Defense was looking to expand Route 15, which leads to the potential hospital site, as plans for missile defense facilities are installed.

The governor said the new hospital site she is eyeing is 0.8 miles from the Eagles Site Field that fell through earlier this year.

Leon Guerrero said she would sit down with Shieh to talk about the issue.

The Guam Medical Association wrote the governor earlier this week, requesting to meet on Thursday afternoon. Adelup Spokesperson Krystal Paco-San Agustin told the PDN that Thursday was not available for Leon Guerrero, but the administration was working to select another time.

Shieh, president of the Guam Medical Association, is set to lobbying the Legislature to mandate that a hospital be built in Tamuning, the PDN reported previously. GMA has backed the Ypao Point site beside the current GMH.

Adelup staff passed out a pamphlet with the phone numbers of all 15 senators in the Guam Legislature during Thursdays meeting.

Leon Guerrero asked GMH personnel to call senators and ask them to approve the purchase of the land in Mangilao for a new hospital.

So we can have the location and the site, so we can continue quickly moving forward through the phases of preparing the land, she said.

Land is clear

According to Guam Ancestral Lands Commission Director John Birch, who also appeared for Thursdays meeting at GMH, the site in Mangilao is clear of any ancestral claims.

Five people had previously filed a claim on one of the seven lots that make up the proposed hospital site, the PDN reported. The area of the lot where a claim was filed makes up about a third of the 102-acre property.

Just like you may occupy a building or rented or lease it, doesn't mean you own it. And that's what happened, Birch said.

Records show the government has owned the property since 1898, he said.

Other public meetings

Besides the 7:30 a.m. meeting, the governor also scheduled a 4 p.m. Thursday meeting with more GMH staff. She will also be meeting with all other community members:

11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 28, for veterans, at Adelup, large conference room.

6 p.m., Monday, Oct. 30, for Barrigada and Mangilao residents, and all concerned citizens, at the Guam Community College's Multipurpose Auditorium.

In a statement Wednesday night, Adelup said these information meetings are in advance of a public hearing on Bill 184-37, set for 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 1 at the Guam Congress Building.

The bill supports the governor's vision to build a medical complex in the Mangilao-Barrigada area, one that Adelup said "co-locates a hospital, public health center, behavioral health, veterans clinic, pharmacy, and specialty care clinics, in addition to medical providers offices."

But Sen. Chris Barnett also introduced a bill that seeks to mandate the building of a new hospital at Ypao Point in Tamuning.
Senators on Wednesday sent to the voting file Sen. Jesse Lujans resolution asking Congress to provide funding to compensate civilians on Guam who were exposed to the Vietnam War-era herbicide Agent Orange.

Resolution 29-37 is expected to pass later in the week. Several senators, including Speaker Therese Terlaje, Sen. Telo Taitague, Sen. Chris Duenas and Sen. William Parkinson, not only expressed their support but also shared testimonies of civilians who have also been suffering from cancer and other ailments linked to Agent Orange.

President Joe Biden in 2022 signed into law a measure that expanded the presumption of service-connection for diseases associated with exposure to herbicide agents such as Agent Orange, for veterans who served in Vietnam, including those who were stationed on Guam, American Samoa and other places, between 1958 and 1980.

The law extended benefits and disability compensation for these veterans.

But Guam lawmakers said left out in the law are civilians who also got sick because of exposure to Agent Orange and other harmful herbicide.

Were not here to point fingers or reopen old wounds. We are here to address an oversight to give voice to those who are voiceless, and to provide justice to the unrecognized sufferers, Parkinson said during the session.

The civilians suffering, he said, is as real as any soldiers.

This resolution is not just about financial compensation. Its about moral restitution. Its about acknowledging the past, learning from it and making amends, Parkinson said. Lets stand united in recognizing the nonmilitary residents of Guam who were exposed to Agent Orange and provide them with compensation they so rightfully deserve.

Lujan, the main sponsor of the resolution, which has nine cosponsors, said he hopes the measure passes and gets sent to Congress.

He said hes working closely with Del. James Moylan to introduce a measure in Congress.

And be able to move on and get us a little closer to closing this chapter and ending this long hard fought battle, Lujan said.

Parkinson also said by passing the resolution, the Legislature is not just supporting the compensation but also acknowledging the pain.

We are sending a message that we see them, we hear them and we stand with them. Many of these victims have been living in the shadows for decades, waiting for recognition, validation and support, the senator said.

Senators also recognized the efforts of all others like Robert Celestial, the current speaker, veterans and others who for years and decades have pushed for recognition and assistance to those exposed to harmful military chemicals.

Veterans from around the nation and Guam also formed Agent Orange Survivors for Guam, which helped the push for the 2022 law. Brian Moyer, who founded the group, visited Guam in 2019 to help federal agencies in follow-up soil sampling at off-base locations.

Sen. Chris Barnett, in his remarks, said with the resolution likely to pass, lawmakers should also not forget the lessons of the past, in which whistleblowers like those who spoke about Agent Orange exposure on Guam, were easily met with skepticism and were deemed crazy.

Lets make sure that we do our best to avoid being on the receiving end of the federal governments sins, he added.

The U.S. military used Agent Orange for deforesting Vietnam. Veterans have also come forward in recent years saying they sprayed on Guam what they believe was Agent Orange, or saw it being sprayed here.

The harmful chemical has since been banned.
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Senators on Wednesday condemned Hamas horrendous attack on Israel as stated in Sen. Jesse Lujans resolution, but the measure failed to make it to the voting file over concerns about the scale of Israels retaliation thats also been killing civilians.

Sen. William Parkinson made a motion to send the resolution back to committee, so that a public hearing on it can be held. But that motion was defeated.

At the session, Parkinson said the resolution concerning Guams support for Israel against Hamas is a significant statement that impacts our international posture and local sentiment, so it has to be thoroughly examined. He said members of the public should also be heard about it.

Sen. Chris Duenas, in an impassioned speech, said genocide in any form, fashion or manner must always be opposed by decent human beings.

Sen. Sabina Perez wanted to include documents to the resolution, including those that show a continuously increasing number of civilians killed not just because of Hamas but also by Israel. But her motion failed.

Perez expressed her disappointment that some senators just shut down dialogue.

Were seeking peace in this region when we dont engender it here in this body, she said. I find it very hypocritical. Were trying to promote protection of a region when we cant even practice it ourselves in this body. I think its just a simple addition of information. Wars have been started for that reason but we must try harder here.

Speaker Therese Terlaje shared similar concerns about the resolution, which she said was based only on initial information. Since the Hamas attack, the events have evolved and Israels retaliation has killed more civilians and blocked humanitarian aid.

Terlaje said she will support the resolution wholeheartedly if it calls for a ceasefire. If the resolution is worded differently, that goes to show that Guam does not support war crimes by anyone, she said.

I do think we are not fully informed, that we are semi-informed, the speaker said.

Lujan made his closing statement, reiterating that his resolution is about a condemnation of a terrorist act, but his motion to send it to the voting file failed.

Earlier in the day, senators sent to the voting file Sen. Chris Barnetts Bill 113-37, requiring a management audit for the Guam Department of Education.

As long as the word assessment is used, it can really mean any number of things to the Guam Department of Education but I think what we really are striving for here is the word audit, Barnett said.

Session resumes at 11:30 Thursday for a state funeral for the late former Judge Johnny Unpingco.
Dozens of United Airlines flight attendants took to the street on Thursday to demand better working conditions from their employer.

Asking the company to provide the best contract at a time when theyre making record revenueI think its fair, I think its fair for us, said Rsei Isim, president of the Guam Association of Flight Attendants.

Members of AFA stood outside the A. B. Won Pat International Airport on Thursday, holding signs that read, Contract Now! And Pay Us or Chaos.

Its the third peaceful picket on island in about a years time, and workers based on Guam joined flight attendants in close to 20 cities across the country.

United management stateside did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment from the Pacific Daily News.

Isim told the PDN that its long past due for the airline, which clocked nearly $15 billion in revenue in the third quarter of 2023, to deliver on a better contract for flight attendants.

Negotiations have been ongoing for around two years now, he said, while pilots employed by the airline recently ironed out a new contract with United.

Better pay and better scheduling for flight attendants layover time are all part of the ask from flight attendants, Isim said, though he would not go into specifics of the contract negotiations.

Payment for ground time was a big issue for picketers, he said. Though they have to show up early to prepare for a flight, attendants dont get paid until the cabin doors on the plane are actually shut.

We need to be there before an hour, before the flight leaves, and lets say theres a delay, a 30-minute delay, a 45-minute delay, it goes from an hour and a half to two hours, he said. For those particular times, if were sitting at the gate area, were not getting paid for that.

Flight attendants earlier picketed over issues with long scheduling delays, as they await overnight accommodations during layovers. Management said its taken to hiring more schedulers to deal with the problem.

But besides just changes to work rules, Isim said flight attendants want a number of other amendments to their contract that would improve the safety of passengers.

Theyve been investing a lot of money in equipment a lot of in regards to growing the company but they just have not been investing in the people that make the flying safe, Isim, a flight attendant for over three decades, said.

AFA represents about 230 flight attendants based out of Guam, and that number is set to keep growing, as United looks to schedule more flights through the island, Isim said.
The University of Guam Marketing and Communications team and UOG Web Team hold the awards they received for projects completed in 2021 at the University of Guam 70th Anniversary Exhibit in August 2022 at the Guam Museum. From left, team members at the time: Laura Pangelinan, Jackie Hanson, Bernie Capindo, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Jonas Macapinlac, Gene Herrera, Eurich Patacsil, and Matt Raymundo.
Floridas Republican administration has ordered colleges across the state to ban Students for Justice in Palestine, alleging that the group supports terrorism.

A letter released on Oct. 24 by Ray Rodrigues, the head of the State University System in Florida, in consultation with Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, calls for the disbandment of the group.

Rodrigues pointed to a tool kit released by the national organization, which refers to [Hamass Oct. 7 attack] as the resistance and unequivocally states: Palestinian students in exile are PART of this movement, not in solidarity with this movement.

The letter goes on to say that under Florida law, it is a felony to knowingly provide material support  to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Several free speech nonprofits have denounced the letter, calling it disgraceful.

This directive is a dangerous  and unconstitutional  threat to free speech, the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression said in a statement. If it goes unchallenged, no ones political beliefs will be safe from government suppression.

Gaza has been subjected to bombardment following the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas operatives on towns in southern Israel. According to Israeli officials, more than 1,400 people in Israel were killed and 222 taken hostage in Hamas initial attack.

Since then, at least 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, according to updates by Al Jazeera. Women and children make up more than 62% of the casualties, according to the United Nations.

Several U.S. lawmakers have signed on a ceasefire resolution to what the U.N. calls a humanitarian catastrophe, although Israel shows no sign of slowing down its use of military force.

Even former Pres. Barack Obama, who remained staunchly pro-Israel throughout his presidential term, has called for the Israeli government to abide by international law and mitigate death or suffering of civilians.

The Israeli governments decision to cut off food, water and electricity to a captive civilian population threatens not only to worsen a growing humanitarian crisis, Obama said. It could further harden Palestinian attitudes for generations, erode global support for Israel.

A young boy stands amid the rubble of a building in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City on October 26, 2023, as battles continue between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas group. (Photo by Omar El-Qattaa / AFP) (Photo by OMAR EL-QATTAA/AFP via Getty Images)AFP via Getty Images

Meanwhile, Republican Presidential candidate DeSantis has only ramped up his support for the Israeli government.

Days after banning the pro-Palestinian student group from Floridas campuses, DeSantis claims to have sent drones, weapons and body armor to Israel. Jeremy Redfern, a spokesperson for DeSantiss office, said the state worked with private parties to secure supplies at the request of the Israeli Consul General in Miami.

This led to confusion with Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the Israeli consul general, who told the The Associated Press he requested nothing of the sort.

Nothing went through me, Elbaz-Starinsky told the AP. We were never in communication on any shipments of arms or ammunition. The only thing that I have dealt with sending is medical supplies.

Earlier this month at a campaign event in Iowa, DeSantis said the United States should not accept Palestinian refugees because they all are antisemitic.
Two former corrections officers and a case manager from the Mississippi Department of Corrections were sentenced Thursday, Oct. 26, for a violent assault in 2019 that left an inmate severely injured.

According to a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice, ex-officers Jessica Hill and LaToya Richardson each received a 37-month prison sentence with two years of supervised release to follow. Former prison case manager Nicole Moore was sentenced to two years in prison with two years of supervised released to follow. Each also must pay a $1,500 fine.

Court records indicate that Hill assaulted an inmate, identified by the Department of Justice as L.C., at the Central Mississippi Correctional Facility in July 2019, first with several blows from a pepper spray canister, followed by repeated punches to her head. Richardson delivered four kicks to L.C.s head and upper torso, while Moore kicked the back of the inmates head one time. Hill then persisted with her assault while L.C. reportedly remained defenseless on the ground, curled in the fetal position, until other prison staff intervened.

The correctional facility holds male and female inmates across all security levels, including women on death row. It is the only facility of all three state prisons to hold youthful offenders, housed in a separate section.

All three defendants previously entered guilty pleas for their part in the assault that breached the inmates Eighth Amendment rights against cruel and unusual punishment.

The defendants in this case ignored their sworn duty to protect inmates and chose violence instead, Todd W. Gee, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi, said in the news release. We will continue to prosecute those who abuse their positions of authority and violate the civil rights of inmates.




Haiti - UN : Intervention on Haiti by Maria Isabel Salvador at the Security Council





Monday, October 23, 2023, 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) spoke at the 9449th meeting of the UN Security Council on on the situation in Haiti.



Excerpts from Ms. Salvadors speech :



"[..] Mr. President, Distinguished Members of the Council,

Unfortunately, the security situation on the ground continues to deteriorate as growing gang violence plunge the lives of the people of Haiti into disarray and major crimes are rising sharply to new record []



[] Killings, sexual violence, including collective rape and mutilation, continue to be used by gangs every day and in the context of ineffective service support for victims, or a robust justice response. []



Between 24 April and 30 September, BINUH registered the lynching of at least 395 alleged gang members across all ten departments of Haiti by the so called 'Bwa Kale' vigilante movement.



I have continued to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, encouraging their full commitment to national dialogue efforts to get onto a path to elections to fully re-establish democratic institutions and the rule of law [] Nevertheless, significant differences persist, all of which are critical to placing Haiti on a clear path to elections [] I am concerned to see that the efforts towards elections are not moving at a desired pace. []



[] The Secretary-General has reiterated this message on numerous occasions: "There can be no lasting security without a restoration of democratic institutions, and it is impossible to achieve lasting and fully representative political solutions without a drastic change in the security situation."



[] Re-establishing control by the Haitian National Police is a prerequisite for holding credible and inclusive elections. The deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) brings hope that the situation will improve. The Haitian National Police can only achieve lasting results when public security is restored, and the State resumes its functions, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods prone to gang activity.



[] Haitis justice and corrections institutions continue to face significant challenges, and while some progress has been made, much more is needed to restore the rule of law, protect human rights and fight impunity. The effect of the security support of the MSS will, without a doubt, have significant impact on limited judicial and penitentiary capacities.



[] When approving resolution 2699, the expectations of millions of Haitians at home and abroad were raised. A glimmer of hope was cast towards finally seeing a light at the end of the tunnel that is not an oncoming train. Resources need to be committed to allow the UN to run programmes and projects to support the environment in which the MSS will operate, including UNDPs basket funds in Justice, Elections and support for the Haitian National Police. Close coordination between the MSS, BINUH and the UNCT must be guaranteed.



[...] Political progress in Haiti is closely linked [] to the restoration of democratic institutions through credible and participatory elections is fundamental for a lasting rule of law.



[] Elections are the only path and the only imperative to restore democratic institutions in Haiti. Only democracy and the rule of law constitute the basis from which Haiti can progress towards sustainable development and growth."



Download the full text of Ms. Salvadors speech (PDF in English) : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/BINUH-NY-23-10-2023-EN.pdf



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - Training : Gestures that can save lives





The Ministry of National Education, in collaboration with the Mobile First Aid Unit / Motorized Medical Emergency Service (UMPS-SUMMOC), launched the 2023-2024 program for training students in life-saving actions.



For the first session, at the Lycee National de Petion-ville, UMPS-SUMMOC trainers welcomed several dozen final year students from several high schools in the metropolitan region of Port-au-Prince



On the first day, the speakers carried out theoretical and practical simulations with the students who were very motivated for the occasion. Training, awareness and simulation, these are the three main points which marked the exchanges between trainers and students.



These trainings will prepare students to provide first aid to victims before professionals with adequate medical knowledge can see these cases. Ricardo Jean-Pierre, the coordinator of UMPS-SUMMOC, took the opportunity to inform of the first series of these training courses intended for more than 50 public and private schools in the metropolitan region of Port-au-Prince. This activity will extend over two months. After that, they will resume this same operation in the other nine departments.



It is good to remember that the Gestures that can save lives program follows the signing of the collaboration protocol on public prevention and first aid popularization services between the Ministers of Nesmy. Manigat (MENFP) and Ricardo Jean-Pierre (UMPS-SUMMOC) https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-39978-icihaiti-health-first-aid-care-in-schools.html



This is one initiative among others taken by the ministry with the aim of preparing students to provide relief and assistance to their peers and school staff who may need it in the event of illness or accident. But more generally, these training courses will be able to serve the rest of the population.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















By William Schwartz | Published on 2023/10/25

"The Great Battle" from 2018 is a major blockbuster starring Zo In-sung in the leading role as the commander of a fortress under assault by the Tang Dynasty in the seventh century. I liked the movie well enough when it was new, but was surprised on a recent rewatch how little it held up, mainly because I'd just seen the first five episodes of "Dae Jo Yeong" depict the same battle. An English-subtitled version of the 15-month, 134-episode series does exist, but it's not exactly famous.

Advertisement

There's plenty of time to get into the reasons for that later. What makes "Dae Jo Yeong" compelling is just how well it holds up in comparison to its big screen little brother. "The Great Battle" is framed by a mostly weird subplot about Goguryeo leadership trying to assassinate the Ansi Fortress commander for insubordination. "Dae Jo Yeong" is instead framed by complex strategic maneuvers, with outmatched Goguryeo commanders struggling to find defensible positions against aggressive Tang imperialist expansion.

The depiction of the Tang Dynasty, just China, for all practical intents and purposes, is notable because while "The Great Battle" makes them out to be vicious and a little psychotic, the main difference "Dae Jo Yeong" shows between the Chinese and the Koreans is that the Chinese are hierarchical to a fault. This leads to hubris, and eventually defeat when they overextend, the Tang Emperor frustrated that his subordinates, with one notable exception, were unwilling to take the Koreans seriously.

Goguryeo is much more decentralized by comparison, with Im Dong-jin playing Zo In-sung's role as Man-chun less as an inspiring leader and more as a careful manager, doing whatever he can with what little resources he has available and being willing to embrace outside-the-box thinking as possible. This contrast hits its apex with the Tang dynasty constructing an assault hill, a genuinely impressive feat of engineering, only for it to be destroyed by Goguryeo forcing a cave-in.

"Dae Jo Yeong" is epic in terms of breadth where "The Great Battle" was epic in scale- a comparison "The Great Battle" ultimately suffers from. Look at the endpoint, of Man-chun shooting an arrow at the Tang Emperor. In the blockbuster, the borderline magic arrow comes from the bow of "Jumong" of legend. In "Dae Jo Yeong" the arrow comes from a normal iron bow. And which is the better story really- Korea winning via magical destiny, or because they were consistently underestimated?

Written by William Schwartz

___________

"Dae Jo Yeong" is directed by Jeong Yeong-cheol, Kim Jong-seon, Yoon Seong-sik, written by Jang Yeong-cheol, and features Choi Soo-jong, Jung Bo-suk, Lee Deok-hwa, Park Ye-jin, Hong Soo-hyun, Kim Jin-tae. Broadcasting information in Korea: 2006/09/16~2007/12/23, Sat, Sun 21:40 on KBS.
Published on 2023/10/26 | Source

New stills added for the Korean documentary "BTS: Yet To Come in Cinemas" (2022)

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With RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V,...

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BTS' concert 'BTS in BUSAN' was enjoyed in 229 countries/regions around the world with cheers from ARMYs.

Close-up views of the members who couldn't be seen in the live broadcast, ScreenX that captures the entire performance on three screens, and 4DX that shows the public performance perfectly!

Meet every moment of the day again on the big screen

Release date in Korea : 2023/02/01
In Finland, 43 per cent of such people reported to having experienced racial harassment in the past year, a proportion that is higher than in any of the other 12 countries: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Spain and Sweden.

PEOPLE of African descent consider Finland as one of the most racist countries in the European Union, suggests a 13-member state study by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA).

The proportion rose to 52 per cent when respondents were asked if they have experienced racial harassment in the past five years.

Experiences of racial harassment from the past year were nearly as common in Germany (42%) and the least common in Portugal (6%) and Sweden (10%). On average, 24 per cent of respondents across the member states stated that they have experienced racial harassment in the past year and 30 per cent in the past five years.

The FRA asked about such experiences from residents of the countries who are originally from sub-Saharan Africa or have at least one parent from sub-Saharan Africa. The study received more than 6,700 responses.

Racial harassment, it found, is common especially toward young women, the highly educated and people wearing religious clothing.

Finland found itself questionably near the top of the results also in terms of the extent of racial discrimination, with 54 per cent of those surveyed in the country saying they have perceived racial discrimination in the past year and 63 per cent in the past five years. Only Germany and Austria had a higher perceived level of racial discrimination: In Germany, 64 per cent reported to having perceived racial discrimination in the past year and 76 per cent in the past five years. In Austria, the corresponding shares were 64 per cent and 72 per cent.

People of African descent reported on average to having felt racially discriminated against at a rate of 34 per cent in the past year and 45 per cent in the past five years. Such experiences were common especially when looking for a job, at work or looking for a house, according to the study.

The FRA last conducted the study in 2016, with the release of the results two years later receiving widespread attention in Finland. While the extent of racial harassment has stayed unchanged at 30 per cent in the past five years, that of racial discrimination has increased from 39 to 45 per cent among the countries surveyed, including from 60 to 63 per cent in Finland.

It is shocking to see no improvement since our last survey in 2016, stated Michael OFlaherty, the director of the FRA. Racism and discrimination should have no place in our societies. The EU and its member states should use these findings to better target their efforts and ensure people of African descent too can enjoy their rights freely without racism and discrimination.

Expert: Results reflect persistent prejudices in Finland

The results of the study reflect lingering prejudices toward immigrants in Finland, Mona Eid, a research director at the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), viewed on YLE Radio Suomi on Wednesday.

Maybe this is an indication that we have some kind of an ethnic hierarchy. [People] from countries and groups of countries that are the furthest away from us and who are possibly different in terms of their appearance, they feel the most discrimination in Finland. This situation unfortunately hasnt improved from the previous survey, she stated.

She stated that it is sad at the individual level that people are not treated equally, adding that experiences of racism have been linked to psychological and somatic symptoms. She also called attention to the apparent disconnect between labour shortages and unwillingness to hire people of a certain ethnic appearance.

We need more labour, but racial discrimination prevents people from getting these jobs, she said.

The work to develop more positive attitudes and eradicate prejudices should start already in early-childhood education, according to Eid.

We should invest more in diversity and encounters, as well as measures related to these. This is a very important societal problem that should be resolved, she underlined.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Weve been in contact with Chinese officials, and theyve assured that theyre willing to co-operate, she revealed to Helsingin Sanomat on Wednesday.

MINISTER for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen (NCP) says Chinese officials have assured that they are willing to co-operate to investigate the damage caused to Balticconnector, an underwater gas pipeline between Finland and Estonia.

Officials from the Finnish Border Guard and National Bureau of Investigation (KRP) on Tuesday revealed that they have recovered a heavy anchor from the seabed near the damaged section of the pipeline. It appears that the anchor was dragged along the seabed for kilometres before it made contact with the pipeline and broke off, judging by traces on both sides of the point of damage.

The investigation continues to focus on the role of Newnew Polar Bear, a Hong Kong-flagged ship the movements of which align with the time and place of the damage. Authorities have refrained from speculating on whether the incident was intentional and whether it could have been orchestrated by a state actor.

Valtonen on Wednesday said discussions with Chinese officials have yet to clarify the cause of the incident.

We dont have any information of that kind yet, but of course I wont be divulging the details of the discussions. Weve been in contact along the way. Theyve been of the view that they want to co-operate in investigating the issue, she said.

The discussions have been had at the diplomatic level, according to her.

I myself have met the Chinese ambassador here in Finland. My state secretary has also met Chinese representatives. Then we have our ambassador in China. These are the most common avenues.

Jukka Savolainen, a director at the European Centre of Excellence for Countering Hybrid Threats, stated to the newspaper yesterday that it would be premature to conclude that a hybrid campaign has been targeted at Finland.

As the National Bureau of Investigation stated, the next step will be to determine the degree of negligence: whether were talking about a deliberate act, a complete accident, or an incident caused by a series of badly managed events, he said, adding that because there is clear evidence of the damage, it may not be especially significant whether evidence of intent is ever produced.

Finns and other allies can develop their responses based on this event. We have to prepare for the scenario that someone did something like this on purpose, [to figure out] how we could detect and respond immediately, so that these kinds of actions dont continue.

Savolainen also estimated that authorities have adopted the right communication strategy in the case.

Thats very important for this possible hybrid dimension. There may be false claims or conspiracy theories. They can cause a lot of political damage. This can be minimised when you communicate openly, he explained.

Aleksi Teivainen  HT
Nasima Razmyar , the First Deputy Chairperson of Finland's Social Democratic Party (SDP), has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, underscoring the dire humanitarian situation endangering civilian lives. Razmyar's urgent plea highlights the critical need for Finland to advocate for the cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages, and the allowance of aid deliveries to the conflict-stricken region.

The recent offensive by Hamas has led to devastating suffering in both Israel and Gaza, triggering a severe humanitarian crisis. According to estimates, approximately 1,400 Israelis have perished, and 200 have been taken hostage following the attacks. On the Gaza side, the death toll has exceeded 6,000. The situation in the Middle East remains acutely critical, with growing risks of the conflict escalating further. Finland, along with the European Union (EU), must act within the bounds of international and humanitarian law in such conflicts.

Razmyar pointed to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' statement to the Security Council, condemning collective punishment of Palestinians following Hamas's strikes. The situation in Gaza is alarming, with the population facing shortages of food, water, medicine, and electricity. Razmyar emphasized that Israel's ongoing bombardment must cease to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, calling the blockade illegal and a cause of untold human suffering.

Finland, in line with the UN and in collaboration with the EU, should demand an immediate ceasefire and the facilitation of humanitarian aid to the region, stated Razmyar. She stressed the importance of condemning the barbaric use of civilians as a tool in warfare, noting that peace cannot be achieved through the killing of innocent people. Razmyar criticized potential restrictions on visas for UN workers, which she sees as contrary to humanitarian principles and a hindrance to aid delivery in Palestinian territories.

The escalating crisis sheds a grim light on the possibility of peace, preceded by a long-standing conflict and mutual suffering. The current situation, Razmyar remarks, also reflects the failure of the international community. In the long term, she echoes EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Joseph Borrell's sentiments that the only path to peace is through the implementation of a two-state solution, allowing people to live in peace and security. The UN and the EU must commit jointly to achieving peace and supporting the process. Razmyar concludes that the immediate focus, however, must be on addressing the acute crisis and protecting civilian lives.

HT
Amnesty International has issued an urgent appeal to all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and Israel, calling for an immediate ceasefire. The human rights organization emphasizes the necessity of this action to prevent further loss of civilian lives and to allow crucial humanitarian aid into Gaza.

The Gaza Strip, home to over two million people, has been particularly hard-hit. According to Amnesty International, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 6,546, including a substantial number of children, with more than 17,439 injured. In Israel, over 1,400 individuals have been killed, and thousands injured. Hamas' actions, including taking over 200 people hostage, have been a contributing factor to the crisis.

Amnesty International's Secretary-General, Agnes Callamard, stated, "We have witnessed immeasurable horror in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Amidst unprecedented destruction and suffering, humanity must prevail." The organization emphasizes the need for urgent actions to protect civilians and mitigate the appalling humanitarian suffering.

The attacks began on October 7th when Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups launched an offensive from Gaza into southern Israel. Thousands of rockets were fired, and cross-border incursions were reported, resulting in heavy casualties on both sides. In response, Israeli forces bombarded Gaza, leading to the high civilian death toll, with thousands more injured and many bodies still buried under the rubble. Amnesty International also warns of the potentially catastrophic consequences of a possible Israeli ground invasion into Gaza.

Amnesty International, along with other UN officials and human rights bodies, urgently calls for a ceasefire to enable the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Hospitals in the area desperately need essential medicines, equipment, and water. "A ceasefire is vital not just for immediate humanitarian relief but also as the most effective way to protect civilians from ongoing rights violations," Callamard added.

Besides urging for a ceasefire, Amnesty International demands that all parties cease actions that violate international humanitarian law, such as indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks on civilians. They call on Israel to end its 16-year illegal blockade of Gaza, allowing unfettered access to humanitarian aid and ensuring the entry of an independent investigative commission into Gaza.

Furthermore, Amnesty International is pressing the International Criminal Court (ICC) to continue its investigation into potential war crimes committed by both Israeli forces and armed Palestinian groups. The organization has gathered evidence of war crimes and is advocating for the continuation of independent, impartial investigations to ensure justice and compensation for victims, and ultimately to dismantle the apartheid system against Palestinians by Israel.

In conclusion, Amnesty International appeals for an international arms embargo against all conflict parties due to continuous serious violations of international humanitarian law. It also calls for the immediate release of civilian hostages held by Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups and for Israel to release all arbitrarily detained Palestinians. The ultimate goal is to address the underlying injustices and human rights violations fueling the conflict.

HT
Local foundation awarded grant to support 'My Music with Rhiannon Giddens'

The cast and crew of 'My Music with Rhiannon Giddens' pose at Greensboro's restored train depot.

The Will & Deni McIntyre Foundation has been awarded $40,000 in grants by the Community Foundation of Henderson County and its Perry N. Rudnick Endowment to help fund Season 2 of the nationally-distributed PBS series My Music with Rhiannon Giddens.

Its been an immensely successful and exciting year for Rhiannon, for us, and for the show said Will McIntyre, series producer and chairman of the Will & Deni McIntyre Foundation, which is based in Henderson County. Just as our first season was premiering in May, Rhiannon was named a co-winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Music. Then she released a new album (titled Youre the One) to rave reviews and appearances on CBS Sunday Morning and The Daily Show. Now were filming our second PBS season on tour with her and Silkroad Ensemble.

Rhiannon is artistic director of Silkroad, the cross-cultural music organization founded by cellist Yo-Yo Ma. The current tour and Season 2 of the PBS series focuses on the traditional music of immigrants who built Americas transcontinental railroad.

"The American Railroad project has been years in the making, says Rhiannon. The content we've planned for Season 2 merges the music of diverse folk traditions with Silkroad's unique ability to amplify voices from a multitude of backgrounds. The result is a musical tapestry that is part of our multifaceted cultural identity.

Series director Deni McIntyre says We filmed an episode in July at the restored Greensboro train depot, which is just a gorgeous place to work. The episode features traditional Celtic harpist Maeve Gilchrist with Rhiannon, who is a Greensboro native.

Season 2 of My Music with Rhiannon Giddens will also feature Chinese pipa player Wu Man, Japanese percussionist Haruka Fuji, Indian tabla virtuoso Sandeep Das, violinist and vocalist Mazz Swift, and NC native Pura Fe Crescioni. Filming will wind up in January at the NC Transportation Museum in Spencer.

My Music with Rhiannon Giddens premiered on PBS in May of this year. In addition to Season 1 of the current series, Will and Deni McIntyre previously produced six seasons of David Holt's State of Music, which has been aired by PBS affiliates in all 50 states.

The Community Foundation of Henderson County supports charitable programs in the greater Henderson County area. Founded in 1982, the Community Foundation administers more than 500 funds with total assets of more than $130 million. In addition to the latest grant, The Perry N. Rudnick Endowment Fund and CFHC have helped support Will & Deni McIntyre Foundations two PBS series through grants totaling more than $100,000.

The Will & Deni McIntyre Foundation is a charitable nonprofit that was established in 2009 to raise the profile of the arts and educational organizations through the creation of videos, books and photography for websites and related media. It is the prime fundraising entity for My Music with Rhiannon Giddens.
THE Henley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Societys next fringe production is a dark three-hander that explores issues around retribution.

Death and the Maiden is a psychological thriller, which was written by Chilean playwright Ariel Dorfman in 1990.

In 1994, it was made into a film starring Sigourney Weaver, Ben Kingsley and Stuart Wilson, directed by Roman Polanski.

The protagonist, Paulina Salas, is a former political prisoner from an unnamed country in Latin America, who was raped by her captors, among whom was a sadistic doctor.

Paulina never saw his face but the doctor spoke and played Schuberts String Quartet No 14 in D minor, Death and the Maiden, during the assault.

Years later, she comes into contact with the doctor once again and recognises his voice. How will she act and will she want revenge?

Mark Wilkin, who is directing the HAODS production, wants to put his own directorial stamp on the play.

Im not a huge fan of the film, he says. I mean, theres some fine acting in it but Im not a fan of the way that Polanski staged it and filmed it, but thats just me.

I think its often the case that when youve read something, you have images in your mind as to what something should be like. Its the same with transferring novels to films, sometimes it just doesnt work.

I mean, the film works okay but its not as dark and intense as I hope our production will be.

Imagine that youre living in a country that some years ago had a brutal and bloody military coup and during that coup you were dragged off the streets and blindfolded, tied up and subjected to abuse and rape.

And there was a doctor present and his role was to ensure that when they gave you electric shocks, they didnt do it in a way that would kill you and that doctor got involved in the abuse.

Now fast-forward to the present day. Your husband, who is a lawyer  and he was the one you were protecting all those years ago  has just been called to the capital to meet with the president.

That day, he has been offered a role on a body thats going to investigate the deaths during the coup but the investigations will be limited and theyre not going to publish names.

Then youre in a beach house in the middle of nowhere. Your husband comes back and he has brought back by a guy whos a doctor and you believe this is the doctor who was present when you were interrogated.

What do you then do? What would you do? What would you want to do?

The three characters in the play are Paulina, who will be played by Liz Mente-Bishop, her husband Gerardo Escobar (Jake Willett) and Dr Roberto Miranda (Geoff Watts).

Mark says: Im blessed with my cast, I have to say.

Liz is a professional actress. Next year shes going to appear on our TV screens and is going to be filming a feature-length film, with a script which she tells me has won more than 60 awards.

In rehearsal, shes absolutely brilliant and she is going to be fantastic on stage, too.

Jake is another great actor. He was in Blackadder earlier this year and he directed Our House, the musical.

Geoff lives in Bix. Hes chair of one of the local solicitors and he plays netball for Henley.

This is his real debut on stage. He decided late in life that acting is something that he wanted to do, so he did a course at the City Academy drama school and hes going to be great.

Dorfman is a Chilean citizen who is now a professor in America with dual citizenship. Mark says: He has been at pains to say that this play could be set anywhere and indeed it coul but its clearly influenced by what happened with General Pinochets 1973 coup in Chile, which was astonishingly brutal.

Dorfman was a cultural and press adviser to Fernando Flores, the chief of staff for President Salvador Allende, who was killed in the coup.

Mark says: The judicial review which Gerardo Escobar is appointed to is remarkably similar to a body which they set up in Chile the year after this play was first performed. If youre going to bring peace to a country that has been through such a brutal regime, how do you go about it?

Do you seek vengeance from those people? Because a lot of them are still in power, theyre the judges, theyre the policemen, theyre the bureaucrats.

All these questions are being asked by the play. Theyre all complicit in what happened, so what do you do?

 Henley Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society presents Death and the Maiden at the HAODS Studio in New Street, Henley, from Thursday to Saturday, October 26 to 28 at 7.45pm. Tickets cost 12. For more details and to buy tickets, visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/

haodshenley
(JNS)  More than 2,000 ultra-Orthodox Israelis have asked to be enlisted in the IDF, in an unprecedented mobilization in the haredi sector.

The volunteer recruitment follows Hamass murder of more than 1,400 Israelis and wounding of thousands of others on Oct. 7, the bloodiest one-day attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust.

About 150 haredim arrived at the IDF recruitment office at Tel Hashomer in Ramat Gan on Monday as the military begins to draft them as volunteers. Most of the volunteers, who ranged in age from their mid-20s to late 30s, are members of the Lithuanian (...
(JTA)  One of the candidates on the ballot for an upcoming Minnesota school board election is an avowed Holocaust denier who has called for all Jews to be sterilized and tattooed with the Star of David, all synagogues to be closed and all Jewish children to be forcibly removed from their parents.

Vaughn Klingenberg is one of seven candidates on the ballot for three open seats in Roseville, a suburb of the Twin Cities. In addition to his views on Jewish people, which he recently published under his own name on a blog, he also visited two area synagogues during the recent High Holidays, ac...
(JNS)  Controversial musician Roger Waters wound up speaking as part of the Palestine Writes literary festival via Zoom after he was banned from the University of Pennsylvania.

Waters released an Instagram video of him being driven to the campus, where he was no longer allowed to speak. In it, he is shown holding the student newspaper, The Daily Pennsylvanian, and complaining about an article describing him as an antisemite.

Others who have known Waters longer and more deeply are making the same chargethat the co-founder of the English rock band Pink Floyd hates Jews. A new 37-m...
(JNS) - U.S. President Joe Biden praised the Israeli people's wartime posture upon his arrival to the Jewish state on Wednesday.

"To the people of Israel, your courage and commitment is stunning. I'm proud to be here," the American president said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Biden at the Ben-Gurion Airport tarmac along with President Isaac Herzog and other senior officials, before heading to the Kempinski Hotel on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to speak to the media.

"The level of cooperation is unprecedented in the history of the American-Israel alliance," Net...
Ronald S. Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress, at the Jerusalem Chairman's Conference on Sept. 22, 2013.

(JNS) - Ronald S. Lauder, president of the World Jewish Congress since 2007, has told the University of Pennsylvania that it must work harder to counter campus antisemitism to continue benefiting from his philanthropy.

He pointed to the recent "Palestine Writes" literary festival the last weekend in September, over the Rosh Hashanah holiday, as a point in case.

"The conference has put a deep stain on Penn's reputation that will take a long time to repair," wrote Lauder, referring to the event in a letter to the school's president, Liz Magill, which CNN acquired. "I have spent the p...
Chabad of Altamonte Springs continues to actively stand in solidarity with Israel, reinforcing its commitment to the Israeli people through a remarkable series of initiatives that engage the local community. This coordinated effort is a testament to the power of unity, compassion, and shared values that Chabad of Altamonte Springs, like the rest of the Chabad centers in Orlando, embody.

On Oct. 9, Chabad of Altamonte Springs hosted an Evening of Prayer and Solidarity that brought together the local community and public officials. The event was an opportunity for residents to join toge...
(JNS)  Foreign Minister Eli Cohen will speak about the Hamas atrocities of Oct. 7 and Israels response at Tuesdays United Nations Security Council meeting in New York.

The minister will bring with him relatives of Israelis the terrorist group abducted and took to the Gaza Strip, the Foreign Ministry said. On Monday, the IDF said it had contacted the families of 222 hostages held by Hamas.

Cohen will also participate in events in New York with the families of those kidnapped.

He is also expected to meet with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other foreign ministers,...
(JNS)  Cairo announced that humanitarian aid would enter Gaza via the Rafah border crossing, as residents of the Strip continue to move south ahead of a looming Israeli ground invasion.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and U.S. President Joe Biden have agreed on the sustainable delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip via the Rafah terminal, announced Egyptian presidential spokesperson Ahmed Fahmy.

In a move criticized by families of Israelis being held hostage in Gaza by the Hamas terrorist organization, Israels war Cabinet approved the delivery by Cairo of limite...
(JNS)  The United Nations Security Council was scheduled to hold an emergency session on Wednesday morning following an explosion at a Gaza hospital that has set the Middle East on edge.

Russia and the United Arab Emirates called for the open meeting shortly after the explosion, in the courtyard of Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City, which according to Hamas sources killed some 500 Palestinians.

The explosion rocked the hospital as Palestinian terrorists in Gaza fired heavy barrages of rockets at southern and central Israel. Alarms sounded in cities including Rishon Lezion, Petach Tik...
(JNS) - Israel will fight until it is victorious, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said on Thursday.

During a visit to an IDF staging area near the Gaza border where he met with soldiers, Gallant said: "I see the determination, the spirit of battle, and above all, the motivation to carry out everything needed to defeat Hamas, to eliminate terrorist infrastructure, and to execute the mission as needed."

Israel has been attacking Hamas targets from the air since the Oct. 7 massacre that killed more than 1,400 people, and has been amassing troops and equipment on the Gaza border in anticipatio...
Candidates Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis during the Republican presidential debate at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, Sept. 27, 2023.

(JNS) - Excerpts from a recent CNN interview with Nikki Haley are being shared on social media with the claim that the Republican presidential candidate endorses a "plan to house up to one million Palestinians from Gaza."

Fla. Gov. Ron DeSantis said that Haley "shows an instinct on her behalf" to "cater to elite opinion," per his presidential campaign, which cited Haley's supposed "openness to admitting Gaza refugees to the United States.

"I do think she's still suffering under the illusions-which should have been wiped away after dealing with Iraq and Afghanistan-that somehow people...
Families of people held hostage by Hamas terrorists in the Gaza Strip hold photographs of their loved ones during a protest outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Oct. 21, 2023.

(JNS) - The Hamas terrorist group may release 50 hostages with dual citizenship it holds in the Gaza Strip, "separate from any broader deal," The New York Times reported on Monday, citing an Israeli military source.

Qatar and the United States are negotiating the release of abductees with dual nationality separately from those who have only Israeli citizenship, the report claimed.

Israeli senior officials have previously said that Israel is not involved in any kind of negotiations related to the release of the Israeli captives.

Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari...
Israeli soldiers walk through the destruction caused by Hamas terrorists in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, Oct. 15, 2023.

(JNS) - The Israeli military has not ruled out the possibility that Hamas terrorists who infiltrated the Jewish state during the devastating cross-border invasion on Oct. 7 remain in the country.

"We have not finished scanning [the Gaza border area] yet," IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said on Thursday.

He noted that troops on Wednesday located and captured a Palestinian terrorist-tired and hungry-who was attempting to return to the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip.

Hagari stressed that there have been no additional infiltrations of Israel over the past few days.

On Tuesday, an unarmed Gazan...
(JNS)  The Israeli Air Force struck hundreds of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad targets in Gaza in recent hours, including tunnels with terrorists in them, while infantry and armored corps conducted raids on the ground in the enclave in preparation for a wider ground offensive, the Israeli military stated on Monday.

Dozens of operational command centers housing Hamas and PIJ operatives were also hit, according to Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari.

Strikes were also conducted on targets that posed a threat to forces in the area surrounding the Gaza Strip,...
(JNS)  Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said on Tuesday that Muslims and the resistance forces will lose patience if Israel continues to prosecute its war against the Hamas terror group.

If these [Israeli] crimes continue, the Muslims will lose patience. The resistance forces will lose their patience. No one will be able to stop them at that point. This is a reality, Khemanei said in a video address later posted to X.

In separate posts, Khamenei called Israel an evil monster and described the Palestine and Gaza as manifestations of Islams power....
Israeli parliamentarians stand for a minute of silence in memory of the innocent Israeli civilians massacred by Hamas terrorists on Oct. 7.

(JNS) - Hamas rocket fire targeting Jerusalem interrupted the opening session of the Knesset's winter session on Monday afternoon, Oct. 16. The legislators exited the plenum for the parliament's hallway during the attack.

MK Merav Ben-Ari of the Yesh Atid Party was at the podium when air raid sirens sounded in the distance.

"I think there's a siren," Ben-Ari told Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, who told everyone to go to the hallway.

The second session of the 25th Knesset opened with a minute of silence for Israelis murdered by Hamas terrorists in the Oct. 7 assault. According to Monday's of...
(JNS)  I came to Israel with a single message: You are not alone, U.S. President Joe Biden posted on social media on Wednesday. As Air Force One returned stateside, some critics say the president should have left well enough alone, even as Americas close ally is at war.

Bidens several hours in Israel proved a missed opportunity to show strength and secure the release of American hostages, wrote the Republican National Committee.

Biden barely mentioned the kidnapped Americans but did announce $100 million in new funding for Gaza, showering Hamas terrorists with m...
The St. Augustine Jewish Historical Society will mark Veterans Day on Friday, Nov. 10, 2023, 11 a.m. at the St. Augustine National Cemetery, 104 Marine St, St. Augustine, FL 32084. A brief ceremony discussing the Jews who have been identified in the cemetery will be followed by gravesite visitations to those who are known to be Jews and others who are likely to be Jews including burials from the Spanish-American War era.

All are welcome to this event. There is no charge. No advance arrangements are necessary. For best directions call the (904) 766-5222 or visit https://www.cem.va.gov/CEM/...
(JNS)  The numbers are astonishing. More Jews were slaughtered in one day that at any time since the Holocaustmore than 1,400 Jews, mostly civilians.

But that is just a number. What is most painful are the pictures. They are killing Jewish babies again. And those pictures will stick in my mind forever. A dead baby in its bed, covered with its own blood. Even more impactfula bloody pacifier on top of a changing table. No need to show what happened to its owner.

We feel pain, anger and frustration. We thought that Never Again really meant Never Again. But we were wrong....
I wrote this originally in June of this year...it seems more appropriate now than ever

When the Second Jewish Commonwealth was declared in 1948, there were Jews in America who were not sure whether to cheer or pretend not to care. 1948. What I call the Sha Still Generation. It was a time of meekness in the American Jewish psyche.

A time when Jewish parents would take their young daughters to get their noses bobbed so they wouldnt look so Jewish. When families changed their names from Cohen to Kane so they could more easily fit in.

It took some time for Jews here to r...
? La presidenta Dina Boluarte y el mandatario ecuatoriano,@LassoGuillermo, participaron en la ceremonia de suscripcion de las notas reversales sobre la ampliacion de la vigencia del Plan Binacional de Desarrollo de la Region Fronteriza Peru-Ecuador. pic.twitter.com/B0kqqXJlzw
On Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, I sent the following e-mail [edited] to the White House:

Dear Mr. President,

Your decision to unambiguously support Israel and the Jewish people in their hour of need after the horrendous, barbaric, and totally immoral invasion into Southern Israel by the Hamas terrorists this past weekend is deeply appreciated.

Unquestionably, this decision is in the best interest of both the U.S. and the State of Israel. Terrorism, especially against the Jewish people and antisemitism at home and abroad must be vigorously combated as a disease harmful to democratic society,...
It was one of the best, most clear and resolute speeches calling out the evil of Hamas, clearly branding them as terrorists, and making the case why Israel needs to defeat this Islamist enemy.

Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian peoples right to dignity and self-determination. (Hamas) stated purpose is the annihilation of the state of Israel and murder of the Jewish people. They use Palestinian civilians as human shields. Hamas offers nothing but terror and bloodshed (with) no regard who pays the price.

At a time of war, one would expect such words from a leader of Isra...
WASHINGTON  Yesterday, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) co-hosted a roundtable discussion on the cybersecurity challenges that the U.S. healthcare and public health (HPH) sector system faces, and how Government and industry can work together to close the gaps in resources and cyber capabilities. Ahead of the roundtable, CISA and HHS released a cybersecurity tool kit that includes resources tailored for the healthcare and public health sector.

Adversaries see healthcare and public health organizations as high value yet relatively easy targets  or what we call target rich, cyber poor. Given that healthcare organizations have a combination of personally identifiable information, financial information, health records, and countless medical devices, they are essentially a one-stop shop for an adversary. For example, just in 2023, CISA conducted pre-ransomware notifications to over 65 U.S. healthcare organizations to stop ransomware encryption and warn entities of early-stage ransomware activity, said Deputy Director of CISA Nitin Natarajan. We continue to work diligently with our partners at HHS and in the healthcare sector to secure our health organizations not only in the United States, but across the globe through our collaboration tools. We are also focused on efforts to Secure Our World by educating the people, companies, and agencies how they can better secure themselves with cybersecurity.

We have seen a significant rise in the number and severity of cyber attacks against hospitals and health systems in the last few years. These attacks expose vulnerabilities in our healthcare system, degrade patient trust, and ultimately endanger patient safety. The more they happen, and the longer they last, the more expensive and dangerous they become, said HHS Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm. HHS is working closely with CISA and our industry partners to deliver the tools, resources, and guidance needed to help healthcare organizations, especially our under-resourced hospitals and health centers, mount a strong cyber defense and protect patient lives.

Today, as healthcare organizations increasingly rely on digital technologies to store patient and medical information, carry out medical procedures, and communicate with patients, they are exposed to greater risk. However, hospitals, health centers, and clinics, especially those that are under-resourced, are coping with a wide range of challenges making it harder to invest the necessary resources into cybersecurity.

Over the past year, CISA, HHS and Health Sector Coordinating Council (HSCC) Cybersecurity Working Group have been working together to deliver tools, resources, training, and information that can help organizations within this sector. Together, CISA brings technical expertise as the nations cyber defense agency, HHS offers extensive expertise in healthcare and public health, and the HSCC Cybersecurity Working Group offers the practical expertise of industry experts working cybersecurity issues in HPH every day.

A key part of this effort is a new Cybersecurity Toolkit for Healthcare and Public Health that was unveiled at yesterdays roundtable. This toolkit is easy to navigate online at www.CISA.gov/healthcare and consolidates resources like:

CISAs Cyber Hygiene Services, which use vulnerability scanning to help secure against known vulnerabilities, reduces the risk of cyberattacks and encourages the adoption of best practices.

HHSs Health Industry Cybersecurity Practices, which was developed with industry, outlines effective cybersecurity practices healthcare organizations of all sizes can adopt to become more cyber resilient.

HHS and the HSCCs HPH Sector Cybersecurity Framework Implementation Guide which helps organizations assess and improve their level of cyber resiliency and provide suggestions on how to link cybersecurity with their overall information security and privacy risk management activities.

Through these and other helpful resources on the webpage, as well as through on-the-ground outreach, CISA and HHS are providing tools, information, and resources to help this vitally important component of the nations critical infrastructure reduce their cyber risk and reduce the likelihood of successful cyber incursions.
Sagittarius  (22nd November to 21st December) Daily Horoscope Prediction says, You will associate with success today Have a great love life packed with fun and excitement. Be proficient at the office to deliver the best results. Handle wealth carefully today & health is good. Sagittarius Daily Horoscope for October 27, 2023: Have a great love life packed with fun and excitement

No major trouble exists in the love life. Stay disciplined at the office and this will help gain a prominent role in the organization. While health is good, minor financial difficulties will exist.

Sagittarius Love Horoscope Today

Utilize the day to resolve the old issues with the lover. You may consider having a romantic dinner or a late-night drive where the future will be discussed. Have good fun in your love life today. Be sensible while handling issues and also give personal space to the partner. Ensure your relationship with your partner and in-laws stays away from any confrontation because this can lead to more confrontations. If you want to get married, discuss it with the parents today.

Sagittarius Career Horoscope Today

Your sincerity at the workplace will bring in success. Be focused on the job and eschew office gossip that may impact productivity. Those who are attempting a competitive examination need to focus more and do hard work. Always keep people with positive vibes around you. The Sagittarius natives who are keen to switch jobs can put down the paper and attend a new interview to get hired.

Sagittarius Money Horoscope Today

There will be financial hurdles today and it is crucial you have control of the expenses. There can be problems related to funds which may affect the business causing problems for entrepreneurs. Some natives will also be in need of money to meet an emergency at home. However, things will improve in a day or two. Ensure you avoid luxury shopping. Even the purchase of a property or a car can wait.

Sagittarius Health Horoscope Today

Your health is good today. However, minor infections will be seen among Sagittarius natives but these issues are not serious. Throat pain, viral fever, cough, and dental issues will be common today. Stay away from unhygienic conditions. Those who are diabetic need to be more vigilant.

Sagittarius Sign Attributes

Strength: Wise, Practical, Audacious, Beautiful, Lively, Energetic, Lovely, Optimistic

Weakness: Forgetful, Careless, Irritating

Symbol: Archer

Element: Fire

Body Part: Thighs & Liver

Sign Ruler: Jupiter

Lucky Day: Thursday

Lucky Color: Light Blue

Lucky Number: 6

Lucky Stone: Yellow Sapphire

Sagittarius Sign Compatibility Chart

Natural affinity: Aries, Leo, Libra, Aquarius

Good compatibility: Gemini, Sagittarius

Fair compatibility: Taurus, Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn

Less compatibility: Virgo, Pisces

By: Dr. J. N. Pandey

Vedic Astrology & Vastu Expert

Website: https://www.cyberastro.com

E-mail: caresponse@cyberastro.com

Phone: 9717199568, 9958780857

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The global business landscape is characterised by an intricate interplay of front-line operations and the foundational back-end processes that uphold them. Among the myriad business functions, back-office operations, though often overshadowed, are the very sinews that hold enterprises together. Recognising their critical role, a rising number of businesses are looking beyond their borders, with India emerging as the epicentre for back-office excellence. Navigating this transformative landscape is Cynergy BPO, not as a direct provider, but as a top-tier advisory firm dedicated to guiding global businesses towards India's premier contact center and BPO partners.

John Maczynski, Cynergy BPO's CEO, observes, With its blend of advanced tech capabilities and a vast pool of talented professionals, India is the undisputed leader in back-office outsourcing. At Cynergy, we strive to be the beacon that directs global businesses to this land of boundless potential.

Venturing beyond the traditional perspective, it's evident that outsourcing, especially in the back-office domain, isn't merely a cost-saving tactic. It's a strategic move, aimed at enhancing efficiency, fortifying compliance, elevating customer experiences, and tapping into innovation.

Cynergy BPO's CSO, Ralf Ellspermann, explains, Back-office isn't just about support; it's about creating synergies. Whether it's finance, HR, or IT, every function is a pivotal gear in the enterprise machinery. Their seamless functioning is integral to an organisation's overarching success.

In our modern era, where digital transformation holds the reins, the essence of back-office processes has radically evolved. Maczynski articulates, Today, businesses demand more than operational efficiency. They seek insights, agility, and foresight. Leveraging technologies like AI, machine learning, and data analytics, the back-office is evolving from a mere support function to a strategic powerhouse.

The depth and breadth of Cynergy BPO's approach transcend traditional boundaries. With a pulse on global trends and an intimate understanding of the Indian outsourcing landscape, they offer an advisory service that is both proactive and visionary. Ellspermann adds, Our vantage point allows us to anticipate challenges, devise strategies, and recommend solutions that are not only relevant today but will remain pertinent in the future.

As regulatory environments grow more complex and customer expectations continue to shift, staying updated is not just crucial; it's existential. Ellspermann emphasises, In this dynamic milieu, adherence to compliance and regulations isn't a checkbox activity. It's fundamental to sustaining and growing in the global market. Our role, thus, extends beyond mere advisory; we ensure our clients are always a step ahead.

Cynergy BPO is not merely a bridge connecting businesses to elite call center and back-office outsourcing providers in India; it's an architect, designing the future of global BPO. In this ever-evolving world of business, their mantra is clear: excellence is not an endpoint; it's an ongoing journey. And with Cynergy BPO at the helm, that journey promises to be transformative.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 26: The Indian real estate market is currently witnessing a significant uptick in Non-Resident Indian (NRI) investments, driven by a combination of factors including the depreciation of the rupee and a growing trend of investment-oriented purchases.

If we go by the calendar year, data from January to June 2022, as per ANAROCK the search traffic from NRI customers witnessed a 117%jump from the same period in 2020 attributing it to the COVID outbreak. Whether it is for personal use or as an investment option, NRIs have been instrumental in contributing to the 7% GDP that has been attributed to Indian Real Estate.

According to an article published by Arabian Business, NRI investment in Indian property market has seen up to a 15% jump in the first half of 2023 over the same period last year.

As the festive season approaches, NRI investments, particularly from the Gulf region, are projected to increase even more. Leading developers in major NRI-favored Indian cities are preparing to woo expat Indian buyers from UK, Singapore, UAE, Saudi Arabia and Australia with appealing packages that include price discounts, dedicated inventory, simultaneous worldwide launches of premium projects, and specialized property selection advice.

Mr. Ajay Vaswani, Executive Director of Vaswani Group (Mumbai), expressed his optimism about the upcoming festival season, stating, We are excited to witness a substantial increase in property investments during the festival season, with a significant portion coming from NRI investors, particularly those based in the Middle East. The convergence of factors such as the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and OPEC's oil production cap has led to a boom in Middle East oil economies, resulting in increased disposable income among Indian expatriates.

The Middle East's economic growth and stability, driven by these geopolitical developments, have created a favorable environment for NRI investors looking to diversify their portfolios through Indian real estate. Vaswani Group's projects in Mumbai have become increasingly attractive to NRI investors, offering a wide range of residential properties known for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

This anticipated surge in NRI investment during the festival season is expected to have a positive impact on the Indian real estate market. It will drive sales and foster growth in the sector, reflecting the confidence that NRIs have in the stability and potential of the Indian real estate market.

As the festive season approaches, NRIs, who often use this time to reconnect with their roots and explore investment opportunities in their home country, are expected to play a pivotal role in boosting the Indian real estate market.

About Vaswani Group (Mumbai): Established in 1982, Vaswani Group is a renowned name in the real estate industry with a strong presence in Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Goa. Founded by brothers Mr. Maniklal Vaswani and Mr. Ramesh Vaswani, the group has earned a reputation for excellence over the past three decades.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Although there are so many cryptocurrencies in the crypto space, there are some coins that you should not take for granted. Here are three coins you should not sleep on. They include Litecoin, VeChain, and Everlodge.

Litecoin (LTC)

Litecoin (LTC) is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency that allows individuals to enjoy fast, cheap cost payments to anyone in the world. It is a hard fork of the Bitcoin protocol. However, despite its use case, Litecoin's value has been on a steep fall.

The price of the LTC coin has mainly stayed between $60 and $72 since its August halving. Fortunately, recent technical signs suggest that things are about to change. Interestingly, Litecoin regained its bullish momentum in October.

The Litecoin price has recently increased by 5% in the past week to hit $66.12 on October 23rd. Looking at the price chart, the price of Litecoin has increased by 26.8% in the past year.

VeChain (VET)

VeChain (VET) is a layer-1 blockchain that uses the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain technology to address real-world problems. On October 20th, VeChain announced that it has launched the first version of its new official rewards dApp.

Users can access the rewards dApps on their mobile or desktop devices. Vechain also promised to add more features in the coming weeks. In early 2023, VeChain coin grabbed investors' attention with its bullish price movement. It started the year trading at $0.015 and soared to $0.032 in February.

However, this did not last long as the price of VET quickly collapsed. As of October 23rd, VeChain is trading at $0.01771020.

Everlodge (ELDG)

Everlodge is a new blockchain property marketplace that wants to transform real estate investments. Everlodge's goal is to allow more people to invest in real estate, even with as little as $100. To make this happen, Everlodge will digitize luxury properties into NFTs.

Then, the platform will fractionalize these NFTs into smaller parts that represent a percentage share of a property. The value of these NFTs becomes valuable as the property appreciates. Also, you can sell them on Everlodge's marketplace or lend them out to make extra money.

Currently, Everlodge is selling its native token, ELDG at just $0.023 each. The Everlodge team has taken some measures to ensure users it prevents huge sell-offs after launch. One of them is locking team tokens for 2 years and its liquidity for eight years.

Buying the ELDG token also gives you a chance to win a trip to the Maldives. The tokens are selling fast and could be sold out soon.

Find out more about Everlodge (ELDG)

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.

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Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of the now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX, testified in his fraud trial on Thursday without the jury present so the judge overseeing the case can first decide what portions of his testimony are admissible. Indicted FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried leaves the United States Courthouse in New York City, U.S., July 26, 2023.(REUTERS)

U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan's decision to hear the 31-year-old former billionaire outside the jury's presence came after prosecutors finished presenting their case accusing Bankman-Fried of stealing billions of dollars from customers and the defense presented its first two witnesses.

ALSO Read- Who is Sam Bankman-Fried, the co-founder of collapsed crypto firm FTX

The judge released the jurors for the rest of the day following a lunch break and instructed them to return on Friday morning. The unusual move came after Bankman-Fried's lawyers said they planned to elicit testimony about the involvement of FTX lawyers in key company decisions like document retention and in crafting of loans to executives that prosecutors have said was one way Bankman-Fried stole funds.

Defense lawyers said the involvement of these lawyers showed that Bankman-Fried was acting in good faith, but Kaplan said he needed more information before deciding whether the testimony could be given to jurors.

Bankman-Fried began by testifying about FTX's use of encrypted messaging platforms like Signal and Slack. He said he believed the use of such platforms was in line with FTX's policies, which were crafted by lawyers. Prosecutors have argued that Bankman-Fried encouraged employees to use such platforms to hide their tracks.

Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to two counts of fraud and five counts of conspiracy. If convicted, he could face decades in prison. Prosecutors have said Bankman-Fried used the misappropriated funds to prop up his crypto-focused hedge fund, Alameda Research, make speculative venture investments and donate more than $100 million to U.S. political campaigns.

PROSECUTION RESTS

The prosecution rested its case after presenting 12 days of testimony in federal court in Manhattan in which former close FTX colleagues told the jury he directed them to divert customer funds to his hedge fund and lie to investors and lenders. Bankman-Fried's risky decision testify gives prosecutors the chance to cross-examine the 31-year-old former billionaire about those claims that he told colleagues to commit crimes.

His lawyers have said three of his former colleagues, who have pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors, tailored their testimony to implicate Bankman-Fried in the hopes of receiving lenient sentences.

Defense lawyer Mark Cohen said Bankman-Fried's direct testimony could last close to five hours, before prosecutors get a chance to cross-examine him.

After the prosecution rested its case, U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan denied a defense request to acquit Bankman-Fried before the case goes to the jury. Cohen argued that prosecutors had not set forth "viable legal theories" of wire fraud, which prosecutor Nicolas Roos disputed.

The final prosecution witness, FBI agent Marc Troiano, testified about Bankman-Fried's use of the encrpyted messaging application Signal when the trial resumed on Thursday morning after a week-long break.

Troiano said Signal groups that Bankman-Fried was in with colleagues often were set to delete messages automatically, as jurors saw screenshots from a phone belonging to Caroline Ellison, the former chief executive of Bankman-Fried's Alameda Research hedge fund and his on-and-off girlfriend.

Bankman-Fried has maintained that while he made mistakes running FTX, he never intended to steal funds.

Legal experts have said Bankman-Fried has little to lose by bucking conventional wisdom and testifying, given weeks of the testimony against him by insiders painting an unflattering portrait of his character.

FIRST DEFENSE WITNESSES

Bankman-Fried took the stand after the defense presented its first two witnesses: Krystal Rolle, Bankman-Fried's lawyer in the Bahamas; and database expert Joseph Pimbley.

Rolle, the first defense witness, testified that the day after FTX declared bankruptcy on Nov. 11, 2022, authorities in the Bahamas - where FTX was based - directed Bankman-Fried to hand over remaining assets to regulators in the Caribbean country.

The defense could argue that Rolle's account undercuts prosecution testimony from Gary Wang, FTX's former chief technology officer, that Bankman-Fried told him he transferred assets to the Bahamas because "they seemed more likely to let him stay in control of the company, compared to the U.S."

Pimbley, the second defense witness, testified that most FTX customers had a type of account that allowed their funds to be lent to other users. Bankman-Fried's lawyers could argue that shows that Alameda's use of FTX customer funds was not improper.

That would include any testimony about the involvement of FTX lawyers in structuring loans from Alameda to FTX executives, which prosecutors have said was a key way the defendant and others took funds from unwitting customers.

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Toyota is recalling about 751,000 large SUVs in the U.S. to fix a problem with the tabs that hold the front bumper covers on. Signage displayed in the Toyota Motor Corp. booth at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, Japan, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023.(Bloomberg)

The recall covers certain Toyota Highlanders from the 2020 through 2023 model years including gas-electric hybrids.

ALSO READ: Toyota and Idemitsu form alliance to develop all-solid-state batteries for EVs

The company says in a statement that the SUVs have resin front lower bumper covers that are connected with mounting tabs. If there's a even a minor impact to the lower bumper cover assembly, the mounting tabs could detach, and parts of the assembly could fall into the road and become a hazard.

Dealers will inspect the bumper cover tabs for damage. If there isn't any, they'll install improved hardware to hold the covers. If damage is found, dealers will replace the upper and/or lower bumper covers and add the improved hardware.

Toyota says it will notify owners by late December. Owners can check to see if their Highlander is affected by going to nhtsa.gov/recalls and entering vehicle identification or license plate numbers, the company said.

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In a tragic turn of events, as many as 13 lives were lost in Karnataka's Chikkaballapura when an SUV rammed into a tanker. The incident occurred on Thursday morning at 7 am on the outskirts of the district headquarters, according to news agency PTI. The accident occurred when an SUV crashed into a parked tanker on NH 44.

All thirteen of the deceased were traveling in the SUV, four of whom were women. They were on their way to state capital Bengaluru from Andhra Pradesh's Anantapur district when the fatal crash happened on National Highway 44.

The SUV reportedly crashed into a tanker that was parked on the side of the highway. Fog and low visibility is said to have been the reason for the tragedy. All of the victims were natives of Gorantla in Anantapur district and did not come from the same family, according to a police official.

READ | Five including three children from Karnataka killed in separate accidents

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed grief over the incident and announced an ex gratia of 2 lakh to the kin of the victims. He took to social media site X, writing, I was deeply saddened to hear the news that 13 people died in a terrible accident that happened near Chitravathi in Chikkaballapur today. I pray for the departed soul to rest in peace. The families of the unfortunate deceased will be given Rs. 2 lakh compensation.

Of the nine men and four women, twelve are said to have been killed on the spot, while one succumbed to injuries while being treated at a hospital.

READ | Pedestrian, two bikers killed in road mishaps in Chandigarh, Mohali

"Twelve people died on the spot in the accident while one critically injured person who was being treated at a nearby hospital succumbed to injuries. All of them were travelling in the vehicle from Anantapur to Bengaluru and on the way, the vehicle collided with a stationary tanker," D L Nagesh, Superintendent of Police, Chikkaballapura told reporters.

The victims, including the driver of the four wheeler, who also died in the accident, hailed from Anantapur district. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained. However, low visibility due to fog is also suspected to be one of the reasons which needs to be verified, a senior police officer said, as quoted by the agency.

READ | Seven killed in Tamil Nadu as car collides with bus

Cops have registered a case of accident under several sections of the IPC and further probe is underway. More details are awaited and will be updated shortly.

(With PTI inputs)

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The Karnataka Forest Department said on Thursday that it will be sending wildlife artefacts recovered from the residences of prominent personalities during raids the day before to the Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India for forensic analysis to check their authenticity. Bigg Boss Kannada contestant Varthur Santhosh was arrested for wearing a tiger claw on the show. (HT)

Also Read - Kannada politician, actor under scanner for possessing tiger claws

Multiple teams of senior officials from the department raided the residences of film actor Darshan Toogudeepa, actor-politicians Jaggesh and Nikhil Kumaraswamy and film producer 'Rockline' Venkatesh here and Vinay Guruji in Shivamogga, among others, against whom complaints have been received that they are allegedly in possession of wildlife articles.

The Forensic Science Laboratory here does not have the expertise in wildlife forensic analysis and, so, all the exhibits collected, whether it is fake or genuine, will be sent to the Wildlife Institute of India, Dehradun for forensic examination, a senior forest officer said.

Based on the outcome of the forensic analysis and further investigation, action will be initiated against them under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 if they are found in possession of wildlife articles, he said.

Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Kumar Pushkar said the Deputy Conservator of Forest will take action and send the exhibits collected from different places to the Wildlife Institute of India.

"All the exhibits collected from the places against whom complaints were received will be sent to the Wildlife Forensic and Conservation Genetics Cell of the Wildlife Institute of India. The fake as well as genuine exhibits, whatever we have received -- all of them will be sent and tested for their genuineness. The process takes time..," he told PTI.

Contestant of Bigg Boss Kannada reality show Varthur Santosh was arrested from the set on Sunday for allegedly wearing a tiger claw pendant. He was later sent to 14 days in judicial custody.

Following his arrest, social media was flooded with photos of actors Darshan, Jaggesh, who is also a Rajya Sabha member, and JD(S) leader Nikhil Kumaraswamy purportedly wearing such pendants. Several organisations wrote to the forest department seeking action against them.

Nikhil, son of former Karnataka Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy, clarified that the tiger claw pendant that he was seen wearing was fake.

In the wake of many complaints of people having wildlife artefacts, the forest department on the direction of the Environment and Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre formed a special task force (STF) to look into them as well as the status of past cases relating to them.

Khandre had said the law of the land is applicable to all without any discrimination and the government will act as per the law.

The STF would also suggest measures to create public awareness and would submit a comprehensive report on the steps to be taken to prevent the sale of products and items made from any part of wild animals, including tiger claws and its teeth.

Khandre has directed the STF to submit a report within a week about the cases (complaints) registered since the Wildlife Protection Act came into force, the action taken under the law and the steps to be taken in the cases currently registered and being registered.

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Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy has said that youngsters in India must work for at least 70 hours a week to compete with countries like China. He called Indias work productivity 'lowest' when compared to the other developed countries. Founder chairman of Infosys N R Narayana Murthy (Photo by Samir Jana/ Hindustan Times)

Also Read - Zerodha's Nikhil Kamath attends convocation as chief guest, calls it 'irony'

In a conversation with CFO Mohandas Pai, Murthy said, If we want to compete with the fastest growing countries like China and Japan, we need to boost up our work productivity. At the moment, Indias work productivity is very low. The government also must reduce the time it takes for decision-making and curb corruption in bureaucracy.

Our youngsters need to work for at least 70 hours a week, he added.

Murthy made the remarks while appearing on the first episode of 3one4 Capital's podcast The Record.

After the Second World War, the people of Germany and Japan worked for extra hours for the sake of their country. The youngsters in India also own the country and work hard for the sake of our economy, Murthy noted.

Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal agreed with Murthy, saying it is not our moment to work less and entertain ourselves.

In a social media post on X, Aggawal said, Totally agree with Mr Murthys views. Its not our moment to work less and entertain ourselves. Rather its our moment to go all in and build in 1 generation what other countries have built over many generations!

However, not everyone was in agreement with the tech billionaire, with film producer Ronnie Screwvala noting that boosting productivity isn't just about working longer hours.

It's about getting better at what you do - Upskilling, having a positive work environment and fair pay for the work done. Quality of work done > clocking in more hours.

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Jammu and Kashmir summer capital Srinagar is hosting a two-day national workshop on streets and public spaces from Thursday with mayors, municipal commissioners and chief executive officers of 100 smart cities of the country in attendance. J&K L-G Manoj Sinha speaks during the flagging off ceremony of the 'Amrit Kalash Yatra' under 'Meri Maati Mera Desh' campaign, in Srinagar on Thursday. (PTI)

The workshop was inaugurated by J&K lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha who expressed gratitude to the ministry of housing and urban affairs for organising the national workshop in Srinagar.

Most important element of a city is its people. With infrastructure and modern facilities, it is equally important to have vibrant public spaces to enhance aesthetics, ensure quality of life and bring positive change, solace in the lives of the citizens, Sinha said while welcoming the dignitaries.

Srinagar Smart City is a role model for other cities of the country with impactful pedestrian plazas, recreational spaces by the waterfronts. One can feel the soul of this city with excellent urban design of streets and public spaces, he said.

Kunal Kumar, joint secretary of Smart Cities Mission, said a workshop of this scale and stature has never been organised in Srinagar before. Never before have officials from across India come to Srinagar, and especially never to learn from Srinagar. It is because of the impactful streets and public spaces projects developed under Srinagar Smart City that the mission has today allowed us to host the first national workshop on streets and public spaces, he said.

At the inaugural session, the LG talked about various initiatives like Srinagar square, beautification of ghats to revive water transport, rejuvenation of lakefront, heritage conservation of Old City, beautification of under-utilised spaces making Srinagar a great inspiration for experts.

Athar Amir Khan, CEO, Srinagar Smart City, welcomed the delegates from across the country and applauded the Smart Cities Mission in bringing public spaces to the front and centre of development of the nation.

We cannot undervalue the role of good public spaces for building social cohesion. Of course, public spaces are good for health, wellness and overall quality of life, but in Srinagar, we are seeing how it is stitching our community back together, he said.

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Security forces foiled an infiltration bid and shot dead five Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, police and army officers familiar with the matter said on Thursday. HT Image

Additional director general of police of Kashmir Vijay Kumar said five ultras have been killed in the operation in the Machhil sector of Kupwara district so far.

Armys Chinar Corps said the Rashtriya Rifles and the J&K Police launched a joint operation near the Line of Control (LoC) and stopped a group of terrorists from crossing the border into Kashmir.

Joint anti-infiltration operationshave resulted in elimination of 5 terrorists who were attempting to cross the Line of Control into Kashmir. 5 AK Rifles and other war like stores have been recovered, it said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

The police said the slain terrorists were members of LeT.

Five LeT terrorists killed. Their identification is being ascertained. The search operation is in progress, Kashmir Zone Police quoted additional director general of police( ADGP), Vijay Kumar, as saying in a post on X.

A police spokesperson said a joint party of Kupwara police and the army (56RR) launched a operation during the intervening night of October 25 and 26 in Sardari Nar area along the LoC in Machhil sector.

Besides, multiple ambushes were laid by the joint teams along the LoC. The joint team observed movement of terrorists in the thick dense forests of the area who taking advantage of difficult terrain infiltrated to our side on Thursday. Employing meticulous tactics, the terrorists were intercepted, who fired indiscriminately upon the joint team. The fire was retaliated, leading to the elimination of five unidentified terrorists linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT, the spokesperson said.

The identification of the slain militants was being ascertained. A huge cache of arms and ammunition, including five AK rifles and other incriminating materials, have been recovered from the site of encounter, he said.

Jammu and Kashmirs DGP Dilbag Singh said the number of militants has come down significantly as the security forces in Kashmir killed five LeT militants in a major operation along the LoC in Kupwara on Thursday.

Armys Chinar Corps said they launched a joint operation along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Kupwara sector.

The DGP said the joint operation of the police and army is yet to conclude. The details will be shared once the operation concludes till the evening, he said. He said the area opposite this border belt is notorious for a long time. There is a good number of camps, launching pads and training. At least 16 launching pads are located there in the PoK, he said.

Previous infiltration attempts

On October 21, two militants had been killed in an infiltration attempt which was foiled by security forces in Uri sector of north Kashmirs Baramulla district. The bodies were, however, taken back by the infiltrating group to the other side of the LoC, army spokesman Lt Col MK Sahu had said in a statement on Sunday. The forces had recovered war-like stores, including two AK series rifles, six pistols, four Chinese grenades, blankets and two blood-stained bags containing Pakistan and Indian currency notes, Pakistan medicines and eatables.

On September 30, the security forces foiled an infiltration bid by killing two infiltrators along the LoC in north Kashmirs Kupwara district. The armys Chinar Corps had also recovered arms and ammunition from the slain. The recovered ammunition included two AK rifles, two hand grenades, a pistol and other war-like stores, the Corps said.

On September 16, the security forces had foiled an infiltration attempt on the LoC in Hatlanga village in Uri, killing three militants who, it said, were trying to cross-over from the other side while Pakistan soldiers stationed there provided cover fire. The incident was the first of this kind in months.

Earlier on August 6, a militant was killed in a joint operation conducted by the Indian Army and Kupwara police in Tangdhar sector. Police had said a terrorist was killed in an encounter while trying to infiltrate along the LoC in the Amrohi area of Tangdhar sector. Two to three other militants accompanying the slain terrorist had escaped back to Pakistan side of LoC, the police had said.

On July 19, two Pakistan militants were killed as security forces had foiled an infiltration bid in Machhil sector of Kupwara. The forces had then launched a thorough search in the morning, resulting in recovery of four AK series rifles, one under barrel grenade launcher (UBGL), five UBGL grenades, nine magazines, 175 AK rounds, six hand grenades, tactical vests and large quantity of war like stores.

In June, the security forces had foiled a major infiltration bid by killing four militants along the LoC in north Kashmirs Kupwara on June 23, the police had said. They had recovered a huge cache of arms and ammunition, including nine AK series rifles, three pistols, four grenades, 288 AK and pistol rounds, 55 suspected narco packets and other huge quantities of war-like stores.

On June 16, the army and police foiled another major infiltration bid at Jumgund Keran close to the LoC in the Kupwara district and killed five unidentified foreign militants. On June 13, two unidentified militants were killed in a joint operation in Kupwara district on the LoC. Two infiltrators were also gunned down near the LoC in the Machhil sector on May 3.

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Polices anti-narcotics task force (ANTF) on Tuesday arrested a 40-year-old Amritsar resident for allegedly procuring drugs from Pakistani smugglers through drones. Chandigarh Police nabbed an Amritsar-based cross-border drug smuggler from Manimajra. (HT File)

The accused was identified as Ranjit Singh, 40, of Daoke village, Amritsar.

According to Chandigarh police, he was earlier arrested by Punjab Police in Amritsar in connection with two Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act cases, wherein police had recovered 1.5 kg and 9 kg heroin respectively.

Chandigarh Police had recently arrested the accuseds two accomplices on whose disclosure he was nabbed.

On October 15, 2023, Chandigarh Police had arrested Harpreet Singh alias Happy, 28, of Amritsar near Housing Board Light Point, Manimajra, and recovered 53.6 gm heroin from his possession following which a NDPS case was registered at Mani Majra police station.

During interrogation, Harpreet disclosed the name of another supplier, Ranjeet, 28, also from Daoke village, Gharinda, Amritsar. He was nabbed from Amritsar on October 18.

Rana during his seven-day police remand disclosed that his village is located adjacent to India-Pakistan border and numerous youngsters from his village are involved in heroin smuggling.

Rana had disclosed that one of the smugglers in his village contacted a Pak-based supplier. He made a WhatsApp account using a foreign number and started interacting with suppliers Irfan, Noor, Imran, Shayada. One of them sent him a drug consignment in a plastic cold drink bottle, which was dropped on the given location through a drone. He later delivered this consignment to Harpreet, superintendent of police (SP) Ketan Bansal said.

Sharing information, deputy superintendent of police (SP) Uday Pal Singh said Ranjits elder brother Gurpreet Singh was lodged in the Punjab Jail in an espionage case.

His father Inderjit Singh was earlier arrested with a consignment of RDX and two NDPS Act cases. Moreover from Ranjeets phone record and with the help of other agencies, it was found that a Senior Pakistan Army officer contacted him by posing as a drug smuggler, but before he could share any information, Ranjeet was arrested, an officer said.

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Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Vikar Rasool Wani on Thursday expressed grave concern over the revival of alleged Pak-sponsored terrorism in the Union territory, especially in border districts of Rajouri and Poonch. Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Vikar Rasool Wani termed the policies of BJP as divisive, based on hate and division.

He termed the disturbing trend as an utter failure of the BJP government on the security front.

Addressing district level party workers meeting at Poonch, Wani said, Revival of militancy in Rajouri, Poonch and other border districts is a matter of grave concern.

He also slammed the BJP government at the Centre for failing to address issues concerning people especially joblessness, lack of development and various other issues.

Wani termed the policies of BJP as divisive, based on hate and division. He expressed confidence that the Congress shall defeat the designs of BJP-RSS which, he said, are hell bent upon to divide people on religious and regional lines.

The BJP government, instead of focusing on development and protection of people, especially in border areas, is out to mislead people on various counts. Our brave soldiers were martyred in line of duty, but the Centres failure on the security front has led to the revival of militancy, which is a matter of grave concern and should work as an eye opener for the BJP leaders, who are only making tall claims and praise Modi government for nothing, he said.

The Congress is duty bound to ensure protection of people and redressal of the problems, Wani added and said the party shall make every possible effort for a dignified life for people.

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Akbah Hoad, Catliya Marg, Aaditi Sadaan, Janpadh  did Delhi add new roads to its already busy list? No. The roads remain the same, just misspelled in Gurmukhi (the Punjabi script) on green signage that dot parts of New Delhi. PREMIUM Signage on Jai Singh Road. In Gurmukhi, the roads name is spelled as Jai Saghi Road. (Arvind Yadav/HT Photo)

Hours after Simon Wong, the Singapore high commissioner to India, pointed out on Twitter on October 8 how the Embassy of Singapore had been erroneously spelt as Singapur on a sign at Satya Marg, a Twitter user pointed out that this was not the only mistake made by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).

Harshdeep Rapal, 40, an entrepreneur and avid cyclist, said that as he rode past Lutyens Delhi many mornings, he noticed several incorrect Gurmukhi spellings. I have spotted over a dozen wrongly spelt road signs so far, including at roundabouts. I have complained many times but nothing changes, he said.

The signage for major roads in Delhi have the names first written in Hindi, followed by English, Gurmukhi, and then Urdu. HT showed photos of several such signs to Professor Ravinder Kumar, dean and head of the department of Punjabi at Delhi University, who corroborated Rapals findings.

For example, Jai Singh road has been translated in Punjabi to Jai Saghi road; and Janpath, which is one of the main roads in New Delhi running perpendicular to Kartavya Path (earlier Rajpath) has an h missing in the transliteration.

Then there is Kautilya Marg  a key road in the diplomatic enclave which connects Sardar Patel Marg at one end to Hotel Samrat at the other  has been given feline origins in its Gurmukhi spelling. It reads Catliya Marg. Not to forget, Aditya Sadan near Ashoka Road has become Aaditi Sadaan.

During a spot check, HT found that mistakes are not limited to these signage alone. In some cases, the same road has been spelled differently in Gurmukhi multiples times, such as Janpath which has been written as Janpat near Claridges hotel, Janpadh near the National Archives, and the correct one Janpath near Kartavya Path. Akbar Road near the C-Hexagon has been misspelt as Akbah Hoad.

NDMC manages 42.7 sq km of area in central Delhi.

Satish Upadhyay, vice-chairman of NDMC, told HT, I am not aware of the issue, I will look into the matter.

An NDMC official said that the main challenge is the use of various languages  English, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu. Many roads are named after places and figures from other countries. Translating them into Urdu, Punjabi and Hindi can be tough, said the official, and added that errors are fixed when they are pointed out.

The official added that while the English and Hindi names are typed out, and errors are often found during the typing stage due to theauto-correct function on the computer, there are no such corrective mechanisms for Punjabi and Urdu names. Pictures of existing names on the signage are taken and replicated during the placement of the boards, the official said.

NDMC officials also claimed that language academies are consulted in the signage-making process to ensure that they are error free.HT reached out the Punjabi Academy but officials did not respond to requests for comment.

Professor Ravinder Kumar, dean and head of the department of Punjabi at Delhi University, reviewedthe signs on several New Delhi roads for HT. He, too, confirmed that some signage in Gurmukhi were either outright wrong or unintelligible.

He confirmed the mistakes at Jai Singh road, and Kautilya Marg, among others. It is sad that the road owning agencies are so lax in putting up the signage in Punjabi which is a second official language of Delhi, said Kumar, lamenting that while the Centre wants to promote all 22 official languages of the country by teaching and promoting their usage, the state of the public signage tells a story of neglect.

These departments should have language experts but many of these posts are lying vacant. Delhi government also runs an official academy for promoting Punjabi language in the city. All these signage should have been vetted by experts before being put up, said Kumar.

An NDMC official told HT that they had Punjabi and Urdu translators  who retired in 2013 and 2018, respectively. The posts have not been filled since. Despite repeated attempts, NDMC did not respond to queries regarding the vacant posts.

Professor Kumar recommended that due to the scale of the mistakes, a citywide survey by subject experts from the academy should be done to detect and remove anomalies.

HT reached out to Dr Md Yahya Saba, an Urdu lecturer at the Delhi University, to verify the spellings of the same set of signage, and a relatively minor mistake was found in a sign on Kautilya Marg. The current version reads Kauilya since the T alphabet in Urdu is missing.

In June 2003, Punjabi and Urdu became the second official languages of Delhi with the then-President of India APJ Abdul Kalam giving his assent to the Delhi Official Language Bill, 2000.

The 2003 recommendation for presidential assent was made by deputy Prime Minister LK Advani after a delegation of Punjabis led by BJP leader Madan Lal Khurana met him about this.

The enacted law declared that Punjabi in Gurumukhi script and the Urdu script will be the second official languages of Delhi for various official purposes. This would necessitate publishing the translation of important government rules, regulations and gazette notifications, and important government advertisements in Gurmukhi and Urdu. The gazette notification section 4(C) says that the signboards of the official buildings, government offices and roads will bear the names in Urdu and Punjabi also.

Dr S Velmurugan, chief scientist and head of traffic engineering and safety division of Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), said, Such mistakes can be confusing for native language speakers in the city. Mistakes in public signage is a grave error. In a cosmopolitan city like Delhi, which receives visitors from all over the country, the signage should be error free. People who only understand Punjabi will misunderstand the names of places and that defeats the purpose of the signage, he added.

About the Singapur-Singapore controversy, an official of the NDMC said, The Singapur typo may have happened due to error creeping in at the printing stage. The workers at printing stage may have changed it to Singapur while typing it in the system.

According to this NDMC official, in the case of names involving embassies, these names are usually taken from the embassies themselves instead of using search engines. An NDMC report says that it manages 1,298km roads in Central Delhi, along with 52 rotaries and roundabouts where there are more than 5,343 road signs in place. Officials said that the real number may be higher as each road has multiple signs at various ends and intersections.

(With inputs by Jasjeev Gandhiok)
Congress leader, six-time MLA and forest minister in Rajasthan cabinet Hemaram Choudhary on Thursday announced his retirement from electoral politics. Choudhary also conveyed his intention to contest as a candidate but as a Congress worker. (HT photo)

Choudhary on Thursday wrote a letter to Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and appealed to him to give a ticket to a young leader instead of him.

Also Read: Thailand PM retires from politics, 9 years following his coup

In his letter, Choudhary wrote, I will remain indebted to the Congress Party and the Gandhi family throughout my life. The party has given me the opportunity to serve the public as a member of the legislative assembly six times. In addition, I had the chance to serve the entire state by becoming part of the state governments cabinet, which was unimaginable for an ordinary worker like me at the beginning of my political career. During this time, I have contributed to strengthening the organization by holding other positions within the party. Whenever the party had to face difficult situations in the past years, I have always remained at the forefront of the struggle.

He added that he is at a stage where he will be unable to dedicate himself completely to active politics.

However, I am now at a stage in life where I am unable to dedicate myself completely to active political life. I have always believed that just as the party entrusted me with significant responsibilities at a young age, I should provide an opportunity to the coming generation. I firmly believe that it is the moral responsibility of every senior leader to inspire young leaders, provide them with political space, and give them a chance to progress. If, despite this realization, I continue to contest elections, it would be a great injustice to the people of Rajasthan and the Congress Party, he wrote.

Choudhary also conveyed his intention to contest as a candidate but as a Congress worker.

Hence, I request you to ensure that a new Congress worker is given the opportunity from the Gudamalani assembly constituency. I am confident that not only Gudamalani but also the people of Rajasthan will provide the Congress party with the opportunity to serve again in the upcoming elections, and we will win with a significant majority, he said.

Choudhary had earlier declined to contest elections for the fourth time.

Previously, he had withdrawn from contesting elections in 2008, 2013, and 2018.

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13:15 | Lima, Oct. 26.

"Last year, US$67 million in private investment in infrastructure projects were awarded through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), and a total of US$2 billion will be awarded this year," the minister told RPP Noticias.

"To date, we have tendered works valued at US$1.232 billion, and an additional US$800 million in contracts will be awarded tomorrow, Friday," he added.

According to Contreras, the Government has supported private investment since the beginning and, therefore, regulations to speed up projects have been approved through the granting of legislative powers

"We acknowledge that the first axis of the recovery process is private investment. Efforts have been made, but many of those projects will take some time to complete; however, we hope that the awarded projects will start running the economy in 2024," he stated.

Likewise, the high-ranking official remarked that over US$12 billion in mining investment projects have been announced during the course of the Government's mandate.

"In addition, to date, we have unlocked both mining investment and strategic sectors projects worth US$2 billion," he noted.

Public investment

Moreover, the minister affirmed that public investment plays a stabilizing and countercyclical role in times of economic slowdown, so it is fundamental for the economy to promote its implementation.

"The (International) Monetary Fund has already said it, tax multipliers, the capacity of public investment to revive the economy increases within a context of mistrust," he stated.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted searches at the premises of state minister Jyoti Priya Mallick in Salt Lake and Kolkata in connection with the alleged multi-crore ration distribution case in West Bengal. West Bengal cheif minister Mamata Banerjee (File Photo)

Mallick holds the portfolios of public enterprises and industrial reconstruction and forest in the chief minister Mamata Banerjee-led cabinet.

Searches were conducted in eight locations simultaneously in Kolkata, Salt Lake and Howrah, said a senior ED official.

Following the raids, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) Supremo lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Centre, saying that even though federal agencies were raiding the houses of opposition leaders across the country, not a single BJP leaders house was being searched.

Before the election, you (BJP) want to raid everybodys house? If this goes on, even I have lots of evidence. You may plan and come up with fake evidence, but we have original evidence, even pen drives. I dont release them, Banerjee said while speaking to the media.

On October 14, the ED arrested businessman Bakibur Rahaman from his home at Kaikhali on the eastern outskirts of Kolkata. According to ED officials, Rahaman is alleged to have close links with Mallick.

According to the agency, Rahman used to siphon off rice and wheat meant to be supplied to ration distributors, which was then sold in the open market. At least three first information reports (FIR) were lodged against him in Nadia in 2020, 2021 and 2022. The ED lodged an Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) in April this year and began its probe.

The raids began around 6am on Thursday and continued till the evening, during which Mallicks two houses in Salt Lake and his ancestral house in north Kolkata were raided. Officials also searched the house of Mallicks personal assistant Amit Dey, and Mallicks chartered accountant.

Slamming the raids, Banerjee said that they would file an FIR against the ED and the BJP if something were to happen to Mallick.

Mallick is not keeping well. He has high sugar levels. If he dies, we would lodge an FIR against the BJP and the ED. Earlier TMC MP Sultan Ahmed had suffered a cardiac arrest and died after being summoned by the CBI. Wife of TMC MP Prasun Banerjee also died, Banerjee said.

Calling the BJP a pathological liar, the TMC supremo said that the BJP was playing a dirty game.

If they show courtesy, we would do the same. If they think that they would send everyone to jail before the Lok Sabha elections, just like the British did to suppress the freedom movement, we are ready, she said while adding that the dates of the Lok Sabha polls may be announced in the next four to five months.

The BJP hit back, saying that the chief minister has no right to use such words against the Centre and alleged that she was trying to save thieves.

When a chief minister is a liar, she has no right to call the Centre a pathological liar. She doesnt want an opposition who criticises her. She has allowed her nephew to run the government and herself tries to shield the thieves of her party, said BJP legislator and leader of the opposition Suvendu Adhikari.

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Uttar Pradesh police on Wednesday arrested two persons in connection with the murder of a construction worker in Hapur district. (Representative Photo)

Irshad, a construction worker, was allegedly beaten to death by a group of people following an altercation, police said.

The incident took place on Wednesday in Luhari village, said police, adding that a case under section 302 of the Indian Penal Code has been registered against six accused.

Hapur assistant superintendent of police (ASP) Rajkumar Agarwal said that they have arrested Manish, an army man, and his aide Deepak, while raids are being conducted to nab four others identified as Dinesh, Yogesh, Gagan and Chotu.

According to the police, the altercation was due to a minor road accident, however, people aware of the matter said that Irshad constructed the house of army man Manish and the latter had called him to discuss payment dues.

However, their conversation led to an altercation in which Irshad was allegedly beaten to death.

Evidence is being collected to verify Manishs involvement in the incident, said the ASP.

Meanwhile, the incident has led to tensions between two communities in the village, following which heavy police force was deployed.

According to the people, the last rites of Irshad were performed in the village on Wednesday evening amid tight security arangements.

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The Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force (UPSSF), a specialised dedicated force raised on the lines of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), will ensure security of seven newly constructed airports in Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, Shravasti, Aligarh, Moradabad and Azamgarh. For representation only (HT File Photo)

On Thursday, a senior official from the home department announced that the Principal Secretary of the Home Department, Sanjay Prasad, issued an order on October 20 regarding the deployment of UPSSF at these airports. The order instructs the U.P. Director General of Police (DGP) to define the roles of UPSSF and local police and determine their respective responsibilities in security prior to the forces deployment.

The UPSSF was made operational from September 1, 2022, with deployment of its 30 personnel at Lok Bhawan in Lucknow. This force is specially meant to provide security for VIP installations, different courts in U.P., airports, banks as well as metro stations. The state government has announced forming this force on December 31, 2019, in wake of sensational killing of a double murder accused in a courtroom in Bijnor district before chief judicial magistrate.

The UPSSF officials have confirmed that the first unit of trained commandos has been deployed at Lok Bhawan.

He further informed that the first batch of 200 UPSSF personnel were taken on deputation from Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and civil police has completed their nine months of special training at Sitapur police training college in August last year. He said the nine months of training include six months of regular training of commandos and three months of specialised training to guard VVIP installations, courts, airports, banks and metros by making them analyse risk factors at these places.

Another senior police official informed that the state government in April 2022 had sanctioned 5,124 posts of different ranks for UPSSF. He said as many as 87 posts were sanctioned for UPSSF headquarters in Lucknow and 5,037 posts for five companies, to be set up at Lucknow, Prayagraj, Mathura, Gorakhpur and Saharanpur.

According to the official, the headquarters received authorisation for the following positions: one additional director general, one inspector general, one deputy inspector general, one commandant, one reserve inspector, as well as six ministerial inspectors, 18 sub-inspectors, 12 head constables, and 40 constables.

The official further said the posts of five commandants and five deputy commandants each, along with 25 assistant commandants was sanctioned for five companies of UPSSF. He said the posts of 163 company commanders, 219 platoon commanders of sub-inspector rank, 853 armours/ head constables, 3,219 constables, 340 drivers, 18 sub-inspector (ministerial), 50 assistant sub-inspectors were also sanctioned. Besides, five medical officers and 10 pharmacists, five radio inspectors and 100 other posts for radio communication were sanctioned.

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The three-member committee appointed by the University of Mumbai (MU) to review the process of registration of voter lists clarified that there was an error in the voter list prepared for the Senate election (graduate constituency). After considering the committee report on Wednesday, the MU management council took a decision to re-do the voter list. The voter registration will now be conducted anew from October 30 to November 30. HT Image

The university had announced the Senate election for 10 seats in the graduate constituency, and set August 18 as the last date for filing nominations. On the same day, BJP MLA Ashish Shelar wrote a letter to higher education minister Chandrakant Patil, raising concerns over the final electoral roll, and on August 17, the government asked the university to investigate Shelars complaint and defer the election after appointing a three-member committee under the chairmanship of R S Mali, former VC of the Bahinabai Chaudhari Uttar Maharashtra University, Jalgaon. The matter subsequently reached the Bombay high court, which also directed MU to announce the revised schedule by October 25 after holding a hearing.

On Wednesday, Mali, Parveen Syed, senior law officers of Savitribai Phule Pune University and Professor Prakash Kumar, MH Shinde College, Kolhapur, submitted their report. In the report, Mali highlighted that despite various options available for address proofs as per the law for voter registration, MU has stuck only with the Aadhaar number. Since many voters were unable to register because of this, the committee suggested the re-registration of voters.

Petitioner Sagar Deoare said he would move court on Thursday to challenge the new enrolment process. As per the HC order dated October 9, MU has to declare the election schedule, he said. This is clear contempt of the court order. The election is already delayed by a year. It is clear that MU is being pressurised by the state government, and there is political interference.

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Noida authority chief executive officer Lokesh M took disciplinary action against three project engineers for neglecting their duty and not handling the sanitation issues properly. HT Image

He also ordered the salary of a project engineer to be cut for going on leave without permission. The CEO also issued a showcause notice to him as he found project engineers of work circle 3 area going on leave without implementing previous orders related to sanitation issues, repair work and the graded response action plan that came into effect on October 1. Apart from cutting the salary of one project engineer till further orders, the CEO also made an adverse service record entry for negligence.

The CEO also issued warning notice to work circle one project engineer and work circle 8 project engineer got an adverse entry for poor job. As per the rules, the warning notice and adverse entry will affect the promotion and salary increments of these officials.

Lokesh Ms action came during a review meeting that was conducted on Wednesday evening in Sector 6 office with project engineers of eight work circles, said officials.

We will take stern action against the officials not doing their job properly. If engineers or other staff are found being negligent in their duties, they will face action, said Lokesh M.

The work circle one, 3 and 3 PEs look after important areas that include sector 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 49, 50, 51, 91, 93 and 94 among other areas.

Lokesh M pulled up the engineers because he found that they did not take his previous orders related to Grap, sanitation work and other activities seriously.

He directed the additional chief executive officer Sanjay Kumar Khatri to take regular updates about illegal construction in the notified areas of Noida.

He also directed that PEs should make their office in their respective work circle areas instead of remaining in the main administrative building in Sector 6. The direction came because CEO realized that they will better deal with municipal issues and also effectively implement the Grap guidelines if they remain in their areas.

During the review, the authority found that 43 lakh penalty was imposed in 171 cases related to Grap violations. Residents said the authoritys enforcement is not effective as many contractors still keep flouting Grap guidelines.

In our society in Sector 47, a contractor has dug up an entire road without covering the same with a green sheet, thereby causing dust pollution. And vehicles ferry sand without covering it with a green sheet. We fail to understand what the authority is doing to stop these violations, said Davendra Kumar, a resident of Sector 47.

.

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Assam police on Thursday arrested a 20-year-old youth for allegedly abducting and raping a 15-year-old girl in Karbi Anglong district. (Representative Photo)

Police said the incident took place late on Tuesday (October 24), adding, locals found the girl unconscious near a forest area and informed them. On the same night, a first information report was registered following a complaint from family members of the minor girl, said police.

Karbi Anglong district superintendent of police (SP) Sanjib Saikia on Thursday told HT that they detained the accused immediately after receiving the complaint and arrested him after registering a case.

He has been arrested under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and some other charges of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Hell be produced before the court soon, the SP said.

According to the family members, the minor girl was assaulted brutally and has sustained critical injuries. She has been admitted to a local government hospital, they said.

She is just 15, but the boy assaulted her with so much brutality and some of the injuries are deep. We want capital punishment for her rapist, said a family member.

Meanwhile, a group of locals on Thursday gathered in front of the house of the accused and tried to vandalise it. However, a team of police reached the spot and controlled the situation.

According to the locals, the minor girl was abducted by the accused when she went to watch Durga idol immersion.

He dragged her to a forest area from the immersion ghat and performed the brutal act. We demand strict punishment for him, a local said.

We can understand the emotions of the locals. Our officials acted quickly after receiving the complaint and arrested the accused. We have assured the locals that proper investigation will be done, the SP said.

Police said that the girl is receiving treatment at a local government hospital and her statement will be recorded once she recovers.

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LUCKNOW: The organisers of the Durga Puja Pandal in Lucknow on Wednesday received special applause from West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee. The appreciation has come in the form of a letter and a box of sweets. A gift box from Mamata Banerjee (HT Photo)

We received a letter and a box of sweets with good wishes and Subha Bijoya from the Chief Ministers office, Nabanna, in Howrah. An official from Lucknow delivered the letters and sweets to our Puja Pandal, said Saurav Bandhopathy, chairperson of the Utsav Puja committee, which created a replica of Mathuras Prem Mandir in Jankipuram sector F.

The organisers claimed that the Pandal they created is the worlds largest, and the Uttar Pradesh tourism department also confirmed this in a video tweet.

The Pandal was a big hit during the Durga Puja, drawing a large number of devotees on all days.

This gesture of appreciation has no political connection; it is in recognition of the buzz our Pandal created. We were even invited to participate in the annual Durga Puja Carnival at Red Road in Kolkata, but due to prior commitments, we wont be able to attend, added Bandopadhya.

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Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) president Lalu Prasad on Thursday attended a Congress partys function at its Bihar office, Sadaqat Ashram in Patna, and said a huge rally will be held in the state capital soon by parties opposed to the BJP. RJD chief Lalu Prasad speaks at the Congress party function to mark the birth anniversary of Bihar's first CM Shri Krishna Singh at Sadaquat Ashram in Patna on Thursday. (HT photo)

The RJD chief, who was speaking at a function to mark the 136th birth anniversary of Bihars first chief minister Sri Krishna Singh, didnt, however, specify if the rally will be held by the new opposition bloc called INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance) or the Mahagathbandhan, the ruling alliance in Bihar in which RJD is the largest constituent.

Prasad said BJP will be routed in the upcoming assembly polls in five states, including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattishgarh and Rajasthan, and exuded confidence that the INDIA would form the next government at the Centre after the 2024 parliamentary polls.

BJP is already facing the heat and the countdown for its defeat has begun across the country. I have been told by senior RSS people that in the 2024 parliamentary polls, BJP would win only one Lok Sabha seat in Bihar  in Patna. The INDIA bloc would form the government at the Centre in 2024 and there will be division of power as per population of the country, Prasad said.

The RJD chief, whose party is one of the key constituents of INDIA, said there was no problem in electing the leader of the opposition bloc.  People are curious to know who would be leader of the INDIA bloc. I want to say, there is no problem in that. The leader would be elected collectively after the polls, said Prasad.

The event was organised by Bihar Congress president and Rajya Sabha member Akhilesh Prasad Singh. It was attended deputy leader of the party in the Rajya Sabha Pramod Tiwary, AICC national secretary Ajay Kapoor and prominent state Congress leaders.

The RJD chief also talked of the caste survey in Bihar and said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi too had advocated a nationwide caste census once the INDIA bloc comes to power. Rahul Gandhi is advocating social justice and has already announced that a caste-based census would be held across the country when INDIA bloc comes to power, he said.

Paying rich tributes to Sri Krishna Singh, Prasad recalled that when he was in power, he had once told Akhilesh Singh that Bihars first chief minister was not being remembered as much as he should be by his own community, Bhumihars, and that they should remember their ancestors.

The RJD chief said he was the one who had the proposed the name of Akhilesh Singh for a Rajya Sabha berth though the latter never asked for it. When Akhilesh came to meet me in Ranchi while I was in jail, I proposed he should go to the Rajya Sabha. I even called up Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for this, Lalu Prasad said.

Akhilesh Prasad Singh was elected to the Rajya Sabha in April 2018. Earlier, he was with the RJD and was elected to the Lok Sabha as the party MP from East Champaran in 2004.

In his speech, the state Congress president recalled how Bihar was described as the best administered state during the tenure of Sri Krishna Singh as the CM and also highlighted his contributions towards industrialisation of the state as well as in bringing legislations to abolish Zamindari in the state. Sri Krishna Singh or Sri Babu, as he was fondly called, always believed in working for all sections of the society and ensured that Dalits enter the famous Baidynath Dham temple at Deoghar, he said.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi reached Shirdi on Thursday where he performed pooja and darshan at Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple. PM Modi at the Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple (Twitter/@narendramodi)

The PM arrived at Shirdi airport in Maharashtras Ahmednagar district around 1pm from Delhi. He was accompanied by Maharashtra Governor Ramesh Bais, chief minister Eknath Shinde, his deputies Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar and Revenue Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil.

After the pooja, Modi inaugurated the new Darshan Queue Complex. The new complex built at the cost of 112 crores, is a modern, state-of-the-art facility designed to provide an awaiting area for devotees.

It is equipped with several waiting halls with a cumulative seating capacity of over 10,000 people and also has the provision of air-conditioned public amenities like cloakrooms, toilets, booking counters, prasad counters, information centre etc.

At present, there are four halls on the ground and first floor of the Shantiniwas and Bhaktiniwas  the two buildings where devotees wait while heading for darshan. The new air-conditioned complex, which took more than four years to complete, now houses 12 big halls on the first and second floors. It would also bring down the waiting time for devotees.

According to the trust, around 50,000 devotees turn up every day, which swells up to 80,000 per day over weekends. During festivals, such as Ram Navami, Dussehra and Christmas, 200,000- 250,000 people arrive in Shirdi. The Shirdi Saibaba temple has a turnover of more than 400 crore annually as a part of donations.

At the new darshan complext, there are 14,538 lockers installed for safekeeping mobiles and shoes for around 45,000 devotees. It also has a separate facility for the handicapped and their caregivers.

This is Modis second visit to Shirdi in four years. Earlier, the PM had visited in 2018 on the 100th death anniversary of Sai Baba when he participated in the foundation stone laying of the now-ready facility.

After performing pooja at the Saibaba temple, PM Modi performed the Jal Pujan of Nilwande Dam and took an aerial survey of the dam. He then dedicated a canal network of the dam to the nation.

The dam has a network of canals connecting to Ahmednagar district. It provides water to 182 villages from seven tehsils. The idea of the dam was conceived in 1970 and has been developed at the cost of Rs.5,177 crore.

During his visit, the PM is also set to inaugurate multiple development projects worth about Rs.7,500 crore and will launch Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana. Later, he will head to Goa to kick off the 37th National Games.

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Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) researchers at the Centre for Research on Start-ups and Risk Financing (CREST) developed an Intelligence Platform on Government Funding Schemes for Start-ups to boost the start-up sector. The portal will help entrepreneurs to get an understanding of the government funding landscape for start-ups.

According to a press release by IIT Madras, the government funding platform which was developed and implemented in partnership with YNOS, an IIT Madras-incubated start-up, brings together the entire spectrum of start-up schemes from the government to the doorsteps of the entrepreneur. It has been developed based on several years of research and data collected by a team led by Prof Thillai Rajan, Principal Investigator of CREST, and faculty, Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras.

The portal will help entrepreneurs to get an understanding of the government funding landscape for start-ups. The product integrates information on the various central government schemes, central public sector companies, and also that of various state governments. There are more than 100 different schemes by different agencies. The platform was launched by Amitabh Kant, Indias G20 Sherpa, informed IIT Madras.

At the click of a mouse, the entrepreneur can get to know about all the government schemes in a single location. Furthermore, the platform also provides detailed analytics such as the start-ups that have benefitted from the scheme, average financial investment received, age of the start-up at the time of getting funded, number of founders in the start-up and the age of founders at the time of getting financial support," said Amitabh Kant, Indias G20 Sherpa.

The information platform on government funding for start-ups contains comprehensive information on more than 100 schemes of various ministries and departments. Close to 10,000 start-ups have benefited from these schemes. Many of the start-ups that receive government support undergo rigorous verification and diligence. Prominently showcasing the start-ups that have received government support, also helps to get the attention of private sector investors such as Angels and VCs, for subsequent funding. Consolidating information of all government schemes helps to communicate the aggregate impact of these schemes in a very powerful manner," he added.

According to the press release, the platform also gives the contact details and the social media links of the respective schemes. This enables the entrepreneurs to get more information about the scheme if they are interested. The entrepreneur can also download a detailed report on each and every scheme through a simple click.

The motivation for developing this platform was driven by the information challenges faced by entrepreneurs and other stakeholders of the Indian start-up ecosystem. Information was scattered, not easily accessible and did not address the needs of the stakeholders. CREST, an Institute of Eminence Research Centre of IIT Madras, chose to demonstrate its global research leadership by addressing this national challenge. The result was the creation of a global standard intelligence platform on the Indian start-up ecosystem that addressed the information challenges faced by early-stage entrepreneurs," said Prof A Thillai Rajan, Principal Investigator of CREST, and faculty, Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras.

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? La mandataria Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra recibio al presidente de Ecuador, @LassoGuillermo, en el marco del 25. aniversario de la suscripcion de los Acuerdos de Paz de Brasilia.#25AnosdePaz ??????????#ConPunchePeru ?? pic.twitter.com/Q5dmgK4ZAT
Macquarie Business School (MQBS) and NSE Academy Limited (NAL), a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE), have decided to collaborate. The first certificate program, Certificate in Corporate Treasury Program (CCTP), will be launched through NSE Knowledge Hub, an AI-powered learning experience platform.(Handout)

According to a press release by the NSE Academy, under this collaboration, NAL will offer certificate courses, developed by Macquarie Business School (MQBS), which will deliver credit points and entitle pathway study in Australia under the Australian Qualifications Framework. The first certificate program, Certificate in Corporate Treasury Program (CCTP), will be launched through NSE Knowledge Hub, an AI-powered learning experience platform.

CCTP is offered by MQBS in conjunction with the Australian Corporate Treasury Association (ACTA). Students who successfully complete the program will receive ten credit points towards postgraduate coursework study. Fourteen individual modules, including Treasury Operations, Treasury Systems, Risk Management and Financial Strategy, will also be available, informed NAL.

Macquarie Business School is delighted to partner with NSE Academy Limited to offer flexible professional development to the Indian market. Our Certificate in Corporate Treasury incorporates theory with the Business Schools expertise in finance, and in conjunction with ACTA, Australias peak professional body for corporate treasurers and senior financial risk managers, this partnership offers a fantastic pathway to gaining an international certification," said Professor Eric Knight, Executive Dean of Macquarie Business School.

Our collaboration will provide future-ready competitive skillsets and internationally respected and recognised certifications to finance professionals and students. By providing curated and insightful content to the NSE Knowledge Hub, MQBS will enable professionals to gain knowledge in areas of treasury operations, risk management, and other areas in the financial sector," said Mr Abhilash Misra, Chief Executive Officer, NSE Academy Limited.

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Ace choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant has had a great year at the movies, with Besharam Rang (Pathaan), Tum Kya Mile, Kudmayee, Dhindhora Baaje Re (Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani), Not Ramaiya Vastaviya (Jawan), and now, Leke Prabhu Ka Naam (Tiger 3). Katrina Kaif in Leke Prabhu Ka Naam and Deepika Padukone in Besharam Rang

(Also Read: Leke Prabhu Ka Naam: Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif bring another banger with Arijit Singh. Watch)

In an exclusive interview, she talks about designing the song and dance of the Tiger franchise, and how Katrina Kaif and Deepika Padukone, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan are different as dancers. Excerpts:

Leke Prabhu Ka Naam is the successor of two chartbusters, Mashallah (from Ek Tha Tiger) and Swag se Swagat (Tiger Zinda Hai). How did you manage to establish a sense of familiarity with the characters and their world, and yet slide in some novelty?

I've witnessed the journey of Zoya and Tiger from the meet-cute to the marriage and having a kid to a twist in Tiger 3 that I can't talk about. Mashallah came at a point when they celebrated togetherness, the fact that an Indian spy was accepted by Pakistan. Swag Se Swagat was also a celebration of love, peace, and harmony because Tiger proved that he may have abandoned his country, but he's not a deserter. Leke Prabhu Ka Naam is also a way to leave the audience going out of the theatre with a celebration of the two characters. But they're all different because I can't pay a homage to myself. I have to treat every song like it's my first.

While Dil Diya Gallan is a love anthem, to me, the definitive song of Tiger and Zoya's relationship is Laapata from Ek Tha Tiger. Two spies, from India and Pakistan respectively, gone rogue yet are in love with each other. Would you agree?

You've hit the bull's eye. We shot that song in Cuba, and it was the first time a Hindi film was shot in that country. The GDP of that country is low, but there's so much culture and warmth because people are peace-loving and harmonious. The two superspies vulnerable in love, we see the other side of their tough demeanour. There's always a tension between Tiger and Zoya, like India and Pakistan, whether it's all resolved or not. But when we see the world through their eyes in Laapata, we realise there's so much more to the world if we rise above the India vs Pakistan discourse.

The Tiger franchise has been one continent-hopping ride. How did you execute the logistics of the three celebration songs that you've choreographed?

Honestly, I was asked to shoot Mashallah at Bangkok. But I told them it's too hot there in May. So we cleverly camouflaged with a set in Film City. We stuck to the theme of Morocco and the other places they shot Ek Tha Tiger at.

We got to shoot Swag Se Swagat at Naxos, a beautiful Greek island. But it's very breezy so we faced weather challenges. It was a tough terrain. We had to jump three aircrafts to get there.

Thanks to Swag Se Swagat, we had a responsibility. Pritam and Maneesh Sharma entered as the new music director and director respectively. But Salman, Katrina, and me have been constant since the start.

You did your breakthrough film, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), with Salman. How has that equation changed over the years?

Working with Salman is a joy for me. There are very few people who call him by his name. I don't call him Bhai, and he likes that. We go back a long way. In fact, I was a Director's Assistant on Karan Arjun. There was Salman, Shah Rukh even Adi was on the set to narrate Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge to Shah Rukh. So we were all cosmically connected somehow.

Salman doesn't know me as Vaibhavi. He knows me as Jinkoo, my nickname. And there are very few people who know me as that. So we go beyond films. If I ask him to come on time, he will be there because he knows I won't torture him and I'll get it done quickly. It feels effortless to him because I've already put in a lot of effort to make it seem like that. It's also how Salman dances: the swagger comes from his ease.

Katrina has a little belly dance-like bit in the song that took me back to Ishq Shava in Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012). From that film to Dhoom 3 to now, Tiger 3, how have you seen her evolve over the years?

Yeah, it's a belly dance, but not Arabic like Mashallah. It's a little Afrobeat meets Oriental. Katrina is just programmed to move her waist like that. It's a muscle memory she can't get rid of. She's so fit, she's worked hard on it, and she knows that.

But in the start, Katrina had a lot of anxiety and insecurity that stemmed from not knowing you better. She was always used to work with a set of people. By the time of Jab Tak Hai Jaan, she was comfortable working with me. See, I also think like her. I don't compete with anyone, but myself. I gave as much to a Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) with newcomers to a Jab Tak Hai Jaan with a legendary filmmaker. So Katrina understood that if I'm crazy, Vaibhavi is crazier. If I'm going to be hard on myself, she's going to be harder on herself.

How do you balance the dancing techniques of Salman and Katrina? One doesn't rehearse at all, and the other can't get enough of rehearsals?

(Laughs) Yes, you never have to tell Katrina to reherarse. She'll rehearse so much that you'll ask her to stop. There is one actor who doesn't rehearse at all, and one who rehearses even before she's taken a flight to the location. But that's what our job is: to bring everyone together. As technicians, we're just people managers. We manage not only actors, but also the background dancers, the DoP, and the costume designer.

You started the year with Besharam Rang in Pathaan. Since it's from the same YRF Spy Universe as Tiger 3, did you anticipate there will be comparisons between the songs?

See, when I was introduced to Rubai, Deepika's character in Pathaan, my brief was just that she's supposed to entice the Pathaan character. There was no info about her backstory. It was her intro song. So I just approached her as a femme fatale. She's Bo Derek from James Bond.

Deepika had also done a bunch of traditional roles, like Padmaavat. So when she came into Besharam Rang, she wanted to go all guns blazing. So I didn't want to shoot it like a typical Hindi dance song. I wanted it to be languid like a chic fashion video. Something I did with Katrina in the Dhoom 3 title track.

But Zoya is very different from Rubai. She's the wife of Tiger and the mother of a 10-year-old. So it's all character-driven. Rubai is meant to entice Pathaan, Zoya is dancing with her husband (laughs). She's just celebrating.

How different are Katrina and Deepika as dancers?

Katrina comes from a place of anxiety. She wants to make sure she doesn't disappoint anybody. Deepika came in as the completely opposite. She's a quiet worker. She did her rehearsals silently. She does her homework. Katrina also does her homework, but she's like, Dekho, dekho, main apna homework karke aayi hu. She needs a sign off from me on everything, including her costumes. Deepika worked on her costume herself. Katrina is that front bencher who's a teacher's pet. She's very hands-on. Deepika is that mid-bencher who comes with a certain ease.

You said you worked with Salman and Shah Rukh on the sets of Karan Arjun. But you've also worked with them separately over the years. How different are the two as dancers?

Shah Rukh does his homework well, rehearses a lot. He's a teacher's pet who feels upset if he's not in the Top 2. But Salman doesn't care. He's also a teacher's pet, but you just love him for who he is: either take it or leave it. He'll show you he's not a hustler, but he actually is one. Otherwise you can't be sleepwalking through franchises like that. They're magic together. They have so much love and respect for each other. I feel if Tiger vs Pathaan happens, the actresses would have a tough time because their bromance is going to take over.

Tiger 3 is slated to release in cinemas on November 12 on the occasion of Diwali.

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Swifties, decoded some major hints from Taylor Swift's stories about 1989 (Taylor's Version). Just days before the release of "1989 (Taylor's Version)" on October 27, Swift took to her Instagram story, leaving fans in a frenzy. Taylor Swift attends a premiere for Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour in Los Angeles.(REUTERS)

In her posts, Swift shared handwritten notes that sparked two compelling theories among her eagle-eyed fans. The first post, on October 24, contained intriguing lines like, "Let's fast forward to 300 takeout coffees later. I see your profile and your smile on unsuspecting waiters." This seemed to hint at her upcoming re-release of "1989."

The second post, shared on October 25, featured lines in different colours, prompting fans to dig deeper. Swift has a history of categorizing her songs based on the pen she imagines using to write them. This time, fans spotted "Fountain Pen" and "Glitter Gel Pen" lyrics, suggesting the possibility of bonus tracks on "1989 (Taylor's Version)."

Rachel, an astute fan, noticed the varied pens and speculated that these might be an Easter egg announcement of additional tracks. Swift has a tradition of adding unreleased tracks, known as "from the vault" songs, to her re-recorded albums.

Theory number two takes it up a notch. TikTok user @Aubriedl went viral with her theory that each line's handwriting hinted at a guest artist. According to her, "What If" could be Harry Styles, while "Moonlit Swimming Pool" might be Kendrick Lamar. The distinctive handwriting styles and clever analysis sent fans into a frenzy of anticipation.

As the Swiftie community eagerly deciphers these cryptic messages, one thing's for sure: Taylor Swift knows how to keep her fans on the edge of their seats. With the release of "1989 (Taylor's Version)" just around the corner, the excitement among Swifties is reaching fever pitch.

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The bilateral relationship between Singapore and Malaysia has traversed a complex historical journey, marked by periods of contention and cooperation. The historical backdrop of their relationship is marked by a dynamic interplay of political, economic, and cultural factors. Notably, Singapore's history as a part of Malaysia from 1963 to 1965 carries profound significance, and this brief period has left an indelible mark on their shared history. The subsequent separation of Singapore from Malaysia was marked by political tensions and economic complexities, leading to the emergence of two distinct nations. While historical and political factors continue to shape their relationship, the economic engagement between these two Southeast Asian neighbors has increasingly come to the forefront. Singapore - Malaysia relations

The depth of the economic integration between Singapore and Malaysia within the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) region is unmatched. This integration has been established due to their close geographical proximity and has been further fortified by historical, cultural, and familial connections, which have played a pivotal role in the development of both nations. However, this was not the case always, after the separation of Singapore and Malaysia, they initially pursued divergent economic models, and their economic interactions were relatively limited, resulting in a lack of compatibility for about two decades. However, a turning point came in the mid-1980s when Malaysia shifted its focus to manufacturing and reduced trade barriers.

Subsequent bilateral negotiations and collaborative projects, like the SIJORI Growth Triangle, not only led to the establishment of supply chains that span both nations but also helped in overcoming historical tensions.

Today, the two countries have a mutually beneficial relationship. Singapore has become the residence of more than a million Malaysians, and hundreds of thousands of people cross the Johor-Singapore Causeway daily for work or leisure. Singaporeans regularly consume fresh produce from Malaysia, and many businesses in the southern part of Malaysia rely on tourists coming from the other side of the border. Both countries engage in the trade of highly specialised services and maintain a consistent and sustainable investment partnership.

While Singapore and Malaysia share commonalities in terms of geography, history, and culture, their significant connection began to develop primarily in the 1980s. Since then their ties have considerably strengthened over the past four decades. This sentiment has been echoed by the leaders of both nations, with the most recent example occurring in January 2023 when Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia's prime minister (PM), paid his inaugural official visit to Singapore. During his visit, Anwar Ibrahim, along with Singapore PM Lee Hsien Loong, signed agreements pertaining to digital and green economies, as well as a memorandum of understanding regarding cooperation in areas like personal data protection, cybersecurity, and the digital economy.

Following this visit, the respective transport ministers of Malaysia and Singapore engaged in bilateral discussions, generating speculation about the potential revival of the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project. On the other hand, progress continues on the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link project, expected to be completed by the end of 2026. This cross-border metro system, created through a joint venture, will seamlessly connect the public transport networks on both sides and facilitate the movement of 10,000 commuters in each direction per hour. The RTS offers an alternative for crossing the border, alleviating congestion during peak hours on the Causeway and affording factories greater flexibility in scheduling their shifts.

A related collaborative initiative that is in the early stages of development is the Johor-Singapore Economic Region (JSER). Though informally announced in May 2023, this project is still in the ideation phase. It aims to leverage the proximity of the Malaysian state to Singapore, creating a corridor to promote not only the movement of human resources and commodities but also substantial cooperation in specialised fields of mutual interest, such as semiconductors, renewable energy, and telecommunications.

The upcoming leaders' retreat between Singapore and Malaysia holds immense significance by fostering stronger diplomatic ties, reaffirming their economic partnership, resolving outstanding issues, and enhancing their roles within ASEAN for the betterment of the region. It is an opportunity to build a foundation for mutual trust, collaboration, and prosperity for both countries and their people.

While both countries are eager to expand their collaborative efforts, lingering unresolved issues can hinder the advancement of agreements. Challenges such as the dispute over Pedra Branca Island, the ongoing negotiations concerning the price Singapore pays for Malaysian water, and the cancellation of the high-speed rail project connecting Kuala Lumpur and Singapore have cast a lasting shadow over the attempts to enhance their bilateral relationship.

The bilateral relationship between Singapore and Malaysia has evolved from a turbulent history into a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership. Both nations are connected by trade, investments, and collaborative projects that span various sectors. While challenges like territorial disputes and competition exist, there is immense potential for further growth and collaboration in emerging industries, technology, and infrastructure development.

The need for action rather than mere lip service is paramount. Addressing outstanding issues and seizing opportunities is not just in the interest of Singapore and Malaysia but also crucial for the economic stability and prosperity of ASEAN as a whole. By working together to resolve disputes, promote innovation, and foster regional cooperation, these two neighbors can chart a course toward even greater economic success and become a shining example of what can be achieved through collaboration in an ever-changing global economy.

This article is authored by Ananya Raj Kakoti and Gunwant Singh, scholars, international relations, Jawaharlal Nehru 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!

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A 17-year-old boy has been detained by the police for allegedly desecrating Amba Bhavani idol in Hirebevanuru village of Indi taluk in Vijayapura district of Karnataka on Wednesday, officers said. The boy is currently being interrogated by the police. (HT Archives)

Officers said the act was committed on Tuesday night, when members of Muslim community had installed an idol ahead of Dussehra celebrations.

However, following the festivities, a boy from the minority community came to the venue and removed the clothes of the deity.

Officials said that the boy was found hiding in the room in which the idols are kept throughout the year. The priest had entered the room around 11.45 pm to finish puja rituals, where the boy was caught red-handed by the villagers and later handed over to Indi rural police, an officer said.

The boy is currently being interrogated by the police. The incident has triggered sharp reactions from the villagers, following which the police assured them of stringent action in the matter.

Every year, we celebrate Dasara festival in a grand way and after the celebrations keep the idol in a room specifically allocated for it, Hirebevanuru gram panchayat member Sujatha Manjunath Jamadar told HT. She urged for a thorough police investigation into the matter.

We have registered a case under IPC section 295 (damaging place of worship), 295A (outraging religious feeling by insulting) and 153 (provocating with intent to cause riot), and are further investigating it, Indi rural police inspector Sangamesh told HT. He said the boy will be produced before the juvenile justice board. The police have stepped up security in the village.

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SRINAGAR: Five Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists attempting to infiltrate into the country were killed in a gunfight with security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmirs Kupwara district, people familiar with the matter said. Indian Army soldiers and Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted a joint operation to foil the infiltration bid in Kupwara district (Representative Image) (HT File Photo/Wazeem Andrabi)

Five LeT terrorists killed. Their identification is being ascertained. The search operation is in progress. Further details shall follow, said additional director general of police (ADGP), Vijay Kumar, in a post by the Kashmir Zone Police handle on X, formerly Twitter.

The Indian Armys Chinar Corps said the infiltration bid was foiled in a joint operation by the army and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

Jammu and Kashmir director general of police (DGP) Dilbag Singh, who visited the border areas, said the operation was yet to conclude and the details of the operation will be shared later. But he underlined that the area across the LoC was notorious and home to 16 locations from where terrorists were dispatched to infiltrate into India.

There are a good number of camps, launching pads and training. At least 16 launching pads are located there in PoK (Pakistan-occupied Kashmir). These activities continue on their part to push infiltrators. At times, there are attempts for weapon and narco smuggling, he said.

Singh stressed that the security forces were able to foil most infiltration attempts and that an increase in infiltration attempts was expected before it starts snowing.

(Before start of winter), the attempts are to push in terrorists from launching pads from Pakistan into Rajouri-Poonch and Kupwara-Baramulla sectors. Many of these attempts were foiled. Successful operations on the border have happened as many terrorists were killed while infiltrating, he said.

The DGP said the number of terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir was on a decline.

Thursdays operation that led to the killing of five terrorists comes days after security forces foiled an infiltration attempt in Uri sector of north Kashmirs Baramulla district in which two terrorists were killed. Their associates had, however, been able to retrieve their bodies to the other side of LoC, army spokesman Lt Col. MK Sahu said in a statement on Sunday. Two AK-series rifles, six pistols, four Chinese grenades, blankets and two blood-stained bags containing Pakistani and Indian currency notes, Pakistani medicines and eatables were found at the site.

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In a significant development in the ongoing anti-terror operation in Kupwara, security forces have successfully eliminated three more terrorists belonging to the proscribed Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit, bringing the total number of neutralized terrorists to five. According to the Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for Kashmir, the operation is still in progress, with search and combing operations ongoing in the area. The identification of these individuals is currently being ascertained, said ADGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar. The encounter started earlier in the day to foil the infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) at Macchil in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir. (Representational Photo / HT)

Three (03) more #terrorists of LeT killed (Total 05). Identification being ascertained. Search #operation in progress. Further details shall follow, Kashmir Zone Police said in a social media post quoting Kumar.

The encounter started earlier in the day to foil the infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) at Macchil in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir.

"In a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & Intelligence agencies on 26 Oct 23, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the #LoC in #Kupwara sector," Srinagar based Chinar Corps of the Army said in a post on X.

Speaking to reporters in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir's Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh Singh shed light on the continuous challenges posed by such attempts, "Infiltration bid keeps happening from Pakistan's side and it is being foiled by the Army, police, and other agencies."

He said that the area opposite this border belt has been notorious for a long time.

The DGP revealed that there are 16 launching pads located in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) opposite the Kupwara division.

There is a good number of camps, launching pads and training. At least 16 launching pads are located there in PoK. These activities continue on their part to push infiltrators. At times there are attempts of weapon and narco smuggling, he said.

Despite these challenges, Singh pointed out that the number of active terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir is currently low. He credited the local populace for their cooperation and belief in peace and development, saying, "The number of terrorists (active in Jammu and Kashmir) is very low. People believe in peace and development and are cooperating with the administration."

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Kunal Gaurav Kunal Gaurav is a multimedia journalist with Hindustan Times, New Delhi. He handles daily editorial operations for the digital news desk, including news tracking, news prioritisation, writing and editing. ...view detail
NEW DELHI: A court in Qatar on Thursday gave the death sentence to eight former Indian Navy personnel held on unspecified charges since August 2022, with the Indian government expressing deep shock at the verdict and saying it is exploring all legal options. The MEA statement said the authorities were in touch with the family of the eight personnel and the legal team, and were exploring all legal options (jtanki - Fotolia/ File Image)

The sentence was handed down by Qatars Court of First Instance, and no details were released officially by authorities in Doha. The external affairs ministry declined to make any further comment citing the confidential nature of proceedings in the case against the eight men.

The eight former naval personnel were all working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm owned by an ex-Oman Air Force officer that provided training and other services to Qatars armed forces and security agencies.

In a statement, the external affairs ministry said New Delhi received initial information about Qatars Court of First Instance passing a judgment in the case involving the eight Indian employees of Al Dahra.

We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options, the statement said without giving details.

We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, the statement said.

It added: Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture.

The case has been surrounded by uncertainty as both the Indian and Qatari sides maintained complete silence on the charges against the eight men.

At a briefing on October 19, external affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi finally confirmed in response to a question from HT that charges had been presented against the eight men as part of the hearings but declined to go into details. f

Soon after the men were detained, Al Dahras website said that it was under maintenance and the firms listing on Linkedin was removed. The firm earlier described itself as a local business partner for the Qatari armed forces.

The officers among the detained men have been decorated with military and civilian honours and some have held senior positions in the Indian Navy. Commander (retired) Purnendu Tiwari, who is among the detained Indians, served as Al Dahras managing director and commanded several warships while serving with the navy.

The bail pleas of the men were rejected numerous times and their detention extended by Qatari authorities. For a long time, they were held in solitary confinement and not allowed to meet their families. Following the intervention of Indian authorities, officials from the Indian embassy in Qatar were given consular access to the men and meetings and phone calls were arranged with their relatives.

The seventh hearing in the case was held on October 3, when it became clear that a judgment was expected this month.

Indias ambassador in Qatar and his deputy met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access.

People familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity that the eight men were charged with espionage. The people said an Indian journalist and their spouse were recently ordered by Qatari authorities to leave the country for reporting on the case.

The silence of Qatari authorities on the matter was perceived as surprising, given the West Asian countrys good relations with India. While India has significantly stepped up defence cooperation with countries such as Saudi Arabia only in recent years, it has had strong defence ties with Qatar for much longer.

The website of the Indian embassy in Doha describes defence cooperation as an important pillar of our bilateral agenda. India offers training slots in its defence institutions to Qatar, and Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships regularly visit Qatar as part of the bilateral cooperation. India and Qatar signed a Defence Cooperation Agreement in November 2008.

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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
Senior Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal on Wednesday said he is deeply saddened by the government's proposed auction of the model of Golden Temple which was presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a gift. Objecting to the drive, Badal said it would be grossly disrespectful to auction off the sacred symbol of the gift and blessings of the Akal Purakh and the Guru Sahibs. PM Modi being presented the model of Golden Temple

The former Union minister wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that the move will also hurt the religious sentiments of the Sikh community. The replica was presented by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.

The e-auction drive of gifts received by PM Modi began on October 2 and will continue till October 31. As a part of its fifth installment, the Centre listed the model of Golden Temple among over 900 souvenirs. The proceeds of the auction will go to the government's Namami Gange initiative, a project aimed at rejuvenating the river Ganga.

Among other gifts, a statue of Lord Laxmi Narayan Vitthal and goddess Rukmini, replicas of the Gujarat's Sun Temple, Chittorgarh's Vijay Stambh and a painting of Banaras Ghat, painted by renowned artist Paresh Maity.

Earlier, PM Modi announced the exhibition of these objects on X and said they display the testament to the rich culture, tradition and artistic heritage of India.

Badal said the model was presented to PM Modi as a sacred symbol of the gift and blessings of the Akal Purakh and the Guru Sahibs and urged the Prime Miniter to put halt to its auction and hand the model over to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee.

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Senior Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, lodged in Sitapur jail, has reportedly refused to meet Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajai Rai amid the ongoing bickering between the two key parties of the opposition INDIA bloc. Azam Khan cited the limit on the number of visitors for his refusal to meet Ajai Rai, reported The Indian Express quoting jail officials. Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan, his wife Tazeen Fatima and son Abdullah Azam being taken to prison after they were convicted in a 2019 fake birth certificate case and awarded a seven-year jail term, in Rampur, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023.(PTI)

Azam Khan, his wife Tanzeem Fatima, and his son Abdullah Azam were convicted last week by a court in Uttar Pradesh in a fake birth certificate case. All three were awarded a seven-year jail term and a fine of 15,000. They are currently lodged in Sitapur Jail.

Rai left for Sitapur Thursday morning to meet the jailed Samajwadi Party leader calling it a basic humanitarian gesture, urging not to see his visit from a political perspective.

Media reports initially suggested that jail authorities refused Rai's request to meet Azam Khan.

"It is basic humanity that we meet them when the entire family is jailed and in crisis today. Now it is unfortunate that we will be prevented from meeting each other. When someone is in pain, it is our duty to stand with them. When he was Minister and I was an MLA from BJP, whenever I went to him with any work, he never denied it. He did all my work and also gave me respect," Rai told ANI.

"If this time is also seen from a political perspective, then it is not right. Humanity comes first," he added.

However, as per the Express report, Sitapur jail superintendent Suresh Kumar Singh said that inmates are allowed to have visitors twice within a 15-day period. Singh said the SP leader has already availed of one visit during the current 15-day period and has expressed his desire to meet with his family members for the second visit, according to the report.

Ajay Rai's gesture didn't go down well with the Samajwadi Party, with party chief Akhilesh Yadav questioning the Congress' intent.

"Where was the Congress when Azam Khan was being targeted, the leaders of the Congress were in fact targeting Azam Khan," said Yadav on Wednesday.

The Congress and the SP have been involved in a war of words after Akhilesh Yadav accused the Congress of betraying his party by failing to arrive at a seat-sharing agreement in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly polls.

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Continuando su agenda en Bruselas ????, el Vicecanciller Ignacio Higueras se reunio con Stefano Sannino (@EEAS_SecGen), Secretario General del Servicio Europeo de Accion Exterior de la UE, con quien reviso los principales temas de la nutrida agenda ???? - ????. pic.twitter.com/AEsVd4rOND
NEW DELHI: Bangladeshs minister for liberation war affairs AKM Mozammel Haque and an official delegation on Thursday visited Army Hospital (Research and Referral), Delhi, and interacted with the Muktijoddhas (freedom fighters) admitted there, officials aware of the matter said. Lieutenant General Ajith Nilakantan with the Bangladeshi delegation led bby minister AKM Mozammel Haque

Three Bangladeshi freedom fighters are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital, they said.

The Muktijoddhas have been extended the facility as a special gesture by the government. Hospital commandant Lieutenant General Ajith Nilakantan welcomed the delegation.

A marching contingent of the Bangladesh army took part in the Republic Day parade of 2021, the third time foreign soldiers marched down Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) as part of Indias biggest ceremonial event. The contingent was invited to take part in the parade at a time when the two countries were celebrating the golden jubilee of the birth of Bangladesh.

Also, the Indian Air Force flypast at last years Republic Day parade featured flying formations to commemorate some glorious moments of Indias decisive victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, including the historic Tangail airdrop and the Meghna operation. The Tangail formation featured a vintage Dakota aircraft along with two Dornier 228 aircraft.

The Tangail airdrop north of Dhaka --- the biggest airborne operation mounted by Indian paratroopers --- set the stage for surrender by the Pakistani army. The Meghna formation commemorated a critical heli-borne operation during the 1971 war and involved a CH-47F Chinook helicopter and four Mi-17 choppers. IAF helicopters played a critical role in moving troops across the Meghna river in erstwhile East Pakistan.

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Belagavi Mayor Shobha Somanache has written a letter to Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot, seeking an appointment to apprise him of the undue interference by Belagavi district in-charge minister Satish Jarkiholi in her administration, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Satish Jarkiholi (HT Photo)

She has also asked Belagavi Regional Commissioner Sanjay Shettennavar to initiate criminal proceedings against three Belagavi Corporation officials for allegedly misrepresenting resolutions passed during a general body meeting.

In her letter dated October 24, written in Kannada, Mayor Shobha expressed her inability to fulfil her duties freely and fairly due to the ministers interference in her administration. She claimed that the minister was misusing his power to manipulate officials into making mistakes and acting against the state governments instructions.

She said the action had resulted in issuance of a show cause notice by the government to the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) over potential dismissal for failing to comply with its directives. In her letter, Shobha indicated that 35 BJP corporators, including herself, would meet with the Governor, if granted an appointment.

On October 17, Shobha wrote a letter to Belagavi Regional Commissioner Shettennavar, seeking to register a criminal case against Commissioner Dudaganti, Council Secretary Uma Betageri, and Revenue Officer Reshma Talikoti. She had alleged that these officials had forwarded an inaccurate report of the resolutions adopted during the general body meeting held on September 16.

This discrepancy prompted the government to issue a show-cause notice about superseding the body. While the government issued the notice on September 21, it did not specify a deadline for a response, she said.

Meanwhile, Jarkiholi termed the letter by Shobha a political vendetta. BCC Commissioner Dudaganti, a senior Karnataka Administrative Service official awaiting to be promoted as IAS, could face a setback if the union government investigates through BJP-recommended agencies. The mayor and her party members are attempting to blackmail the commissioner by involving union government agencies, he said.
The Kasaragod district court on Wednesday granted bail to Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kerala chief K Surendran and five others in connection with the Manjeswaram election bribery case. The case pertains to BJP Kerala chief K Surendran and five other party leaders being booked by the Kerala crime branch on charges of threatening and bribing a Bahujan Samaj Party candidate K Sundara in the Manjeshwaram assembly election in 2021. (HT Archives)

All the accused, including Surendran, were present in court during the hearing on Wednesday. This is the first time the state BJP chief attended the hearing in the case.

The case pertains to Surendran and five other BJP leaders being booked by the Kerala crime branch on charges of threatening and bribing a Bahujan Samaj Party candidate K Sundara in the Manjeshwaram assembly election in 2021. The accused allegedly tried to persuade him to withdraw his name. At that time, Sundara had told the police that he was paid a bribe of  2.5 lakh and a smartphone by BJP leaders to withdraw from the contest which he eventually did.

Earlier on October 10, the court had directed all the accused to appear before it as they had skipped four hearings. The accused, including Surendran had also filed a discharge plea before the court arguing that the charges against them wont stand the scrutiny of law. The court then said that the accused should be present physically on October 25 before it considers the discharge plea.The next hearing in the case is on November 15.

Sundara, who belongs to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community, had bagged 467 votes as an Independent candidate in the 2016 assembly election in which Surendran who fought on the BJP ticket had lost by 89 votes. After this the accused allegedly persuaded Sundara to opt out of the race in the 2021 election.

Reacting to the development, Surendran told reporters on Wednesday, This is a false case hoisted on me by Communist Party of India (Marxist) leaders out of political vendetta. The police took my detailed statement. I was never arrested. I had given a discharge plea requesting to cancel the police chargesheet. So, I was expecting to get the bail.

The CPI(M) has not reacted yet to the development.

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The Karnataka unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party has launched an ATM Sarkara campaign targeting the Congress-led state government over widespread corruption allegations, people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. The move is a replication of the campaigns such as PayCM and 40% commission launched by the Congress in August last yearagainst the then BJP government in Karnataka. (AFP)

The move is a replication of the campaigns such as PayCM and 40% commission launched by the Congress in August last yearagainst the then BJP government in Karnataka.

The ATM Sarkara campaign comes in the wake of recent income tax raids carried out on October 12, leading to seizure of nearly 94 crore in cash from properties owned by contractors, including an office-bearer of the contractors association. According to the campaign, the BJP has accused the government of utilising Karnataka as an ATM to finance Congress election campaigns in other states.

The party had on October 20 also started a poster campaign titled ATM Sarkara Collection Tree on the same lines.The poster prominently features Congress MP and former party president Rahul Gandhi, followed by national general secretaries Randeep Singh Surjewala and KC Venugopal, chief minister Siddaramaiah, deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar, Siddaramaiahs son Yathindra Siddaramaiah, Minister Byrathi Suresh, and contractor Ambikapathy.

Even though the Congress has been trying to maintain its focus on highlighting the state governments schemes and their implementation, especially after the announcement of election dates in Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Mizoram, the BJP, however, has been accusing the government of being hand in glove with the contractors in terms of corruption.

Reacting to the development, senior BJP parliamentarian DV Sadananda Gowda said: People have now come to know how the administration has been run in the state for the past five months. All development works have come to a standstill, and the situation is so dire that not a single pothole is being filled.

The central point of the collection business is Delhi, and Rahul Gandhi has assumed full responsibility for it, he said. The BJP intends to take the poster campaign across Karnataka in the coming days to challenge the perception fostered by the Congress government, he added.

However, All India Congress Committee president Mallikarjun Kharge dismissed the allegations stating that the Congress government in Karnataka is only a few months old and the BJP is trying to defame the party.

The chief minister and deputy chief minister have already addressed this (the issue). It has been only a few months since the government was formed, and they are already making these claims. They are attempting to defame the government due to elections, but this strategy wont succeed, he said in Kalburgi.

Following the raids, chief minister Siddaramaiah had remarked on October 16 that opposition parties were making baseless allegations and issuing politically motivated statements linking Congress to the IT raids on contractors. There are no such things as BJP contractors or Congress contractors. I refer to them as BJP contractors. The IT department has not levelled any allegations against the government. These are all baseless claims, he had said.
The Border Security Force (BSF) has reported unprovoked firing from the Pakistani side targeting its posts in the Arnia area of Jammu and Kashmir. The incident occurred at around 8pm, and the BSF troops responded promptly to the aggression. The BSF said in a statement the unprovoked firing initiated by the Pak Rangers was met with a befitting retaliation from its troops. The exchange of fire between the two sides is ongoing, and the situation remains tense in the Arnia sector.

The exchange of fire between the two sides is ongoing, and the situation remains tense in the Arnia sector.

Tonight at about 2000 hrs unprovoked firing started by Pak Rangers on BSF posts in Arnia area which is befittingly retaliated by BSF troops. The firing is still on, the BSF said in a statement.

This incident comes on the heels of recent ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the same sector in which two BSF personnel were injured. The BSF personnel sustained bullet injuries after Pakistan Rangers "resorted to unprovoked firing" on border guards along the IB at the Vikram BoP in the Arnia sector on October 17.

The BSF had lodged a protest with Pakistan Rangers over unprovoked cross-border firing at the forward post along the Indo-Pak border. During the meeting, BSF officials also raised the issue of smuggling of narcotics from across the border and said they have pictorial evidence of smugglers killed by the force, the officials said.

As usual, they said, Pakistan Rangers denied their involvement.

Ceasefire violations in this region have been a recurring issue, causing concern and instability in the border areas. There have been more than a dozen such ceasefire violations after India and Pakistan signed an agreement on February 25, 2021, to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors. The Indian government has consistently called on Pakistan to maintain peace and adhere to the ceasefire agreement to prevent any further escalation of hostilities in the region.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail
In a rare show of support to his intra-party rival Ashok Gehlot, Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Thursday condemned the Enforcement Directorate's summons to the former's son, Vaibhav Gehlot. He said the BJP cannot scare Congress leaders with such tactics and that all the leaders and workers of the party in Rajasthan were "standing together in solidarity". Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot and his former deputy Sachin Pilot.(PTI file photo)

"I strongly condemn the ED raid on Rajasthan Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasara. ED summons has also been given to Vaibhav Gehlot, son of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot. BJP cannot scare Congress leaders with such tactics. All the leaders and workers of the state Congress are standing together in solidarity," he wrote on X.

He said such actions display BJP's nervousness over the Rajasthan assembly elections.

"BJP's nervousness is clearly visible due to such action, because the public has made up its mind to bring Congress government back in Rajasthan in the upcoming elections," he added.

This comes days after Ashok Gehlot recalled the failed "attempt to topple his government in 2020", ostensibly led by Pilot.

"They tried to topple my government this time but they failed. They thought that they would succeed here as well, but they had no idea who they were dealing with Gehlot said.

Pilot and 18 other Congress MLAs had revolted against Gehlot in July 2020. The revolt ended after the party intervened and Pilot was removed from the posts of deputy chief minister and state Congress president.

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, referring to ED's raids at Rajasthan Congress Chief Govind Singh Dotasara's house, said central agencies had become BJP's "Panna Pramukh".

"As elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, IT have become the real 'Panna Pramukh' of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last move! After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders entering the assembly election campaign in Rajasthan".

The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies," he added.

Dotasara's house is being raided in connection with the Senior Teacher 2nd Grade Competitive Examination, 2022 Paper Leak case.

Gehlot today said the BJP doesn't want his government's welfare schemes to reach the masses.

"Date 25/10/23- Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23 -ED raid on Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Ji Dotasara - Summons to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear in ED", the Rajasthan CM wrote in an 'X' post.

"Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED raid is happening everyday in Rajasthan because BJP does not want women, farmers and the poor in Rajasthan to get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress", he added.

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The Centre has raised concerns over the airlines along with online travel aggregators engaging in unfair trade practices which include labeling every seat of flights as paid despite claiming to offer free mandatory web check-in. The Union consumer affairs ministry also pointed out the complaints regarding denying boarding to passengers despite having confirmed tickets as well as delaying refund. Nearly 10,000 complaints have been received in the last year related to airlines.(AP)

Consumer affairs secretary Rohit Kumar Singh noted that airlines have been structuring their website interfaces in order to undermine consumer autonomy to opt features suited best for them, and manipulate their decision-making, the Times of India reported. Singh also said that such tactic is called dark pattern.

The ministry also highlighted that implementing tactics to manipulate consumer interests are considered as unfair trade practices as per the Consumer Protection Act.

Passengers have been raising complaints on the dedicated Air Seva website. Nearly, 10,000 such complaints were received last year and the government has so far struggled to compel airlines to address them comprehensively.

Singh noted that such high number of grievances indicate airlines' ineffectiveness in addressing them.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR HT News Desk Follow the latest breaking news and developments from India and around the world with Hindustan Times' newsdesk. From politics and policies to the economy and the environment, from local issues to national events and global affairs, we've got you covered. ...view detail
The Election Commission on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for allegedly making communally charged remarks during an election campaign in poll-bound Chhattisgarh. The Election Commission, in its show-cause notice, said that certain parts of the BJP leader's speech that he delivered on October 18 have been found to be "prima facie violative" of provisions of the Model Code of Conduct and Representation of the People Act, 1951. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.(PTI)

The commission has asked Sarma to respond to the notice by 5pm on October 30.

The Congress party, in its complaint to the poll body, alleged that Sarma made communally charged statements and made unverified allegations and distortions against its Kawardha candidate Mohammed Akbar.

What Himanta Biswa Sarma said in Chhattisgarh

If one Akbar comes to one place, don't forget that they call hundred Akbars. Therefore, bid farewell to Akbar as soon as possible, otherwise this land of Mother Kaushalya will be defiled," Sarma said, as per the EC notice.

Kaushalya, the mother of Lord Ram, is believed to hail from what is modern-day Chhattisgarh.

So that's why brothers and sisters, you people have to save Chhattisgarh. This sacred land of Maa Kaushalya has to be saved and hence all of you should make Vijay Bhaiya victorious," Sarma said, referring to the BJP candidate from Kawardha.

Another part of Sarma's speech flagged by the poll body read, Today, Love Jihad started in our country during the Congress rule. Today, the tribals of Chhattisgarh and our tribals like Assam are encouraged to convert to Islam every day and when voices are raised against them, Mukesh Baghel ji says that we are secular. Is it beating Hindus your form of secularism? This is a country of Hindus and will remain of Hindus. Don't teach us this language of secularism.

While issuing him notice, the poll panel reminded the chief minister of a provision in the poll code which states that "no party or candidate shall include in any activity which may aggravate existing differences or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic."

Elections to the 90-member Chhattisgarh assembly will be held in two phases - on November 7 and 17.

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New Delhi: The Election Commission of India (ECI) will ink a memorandum of understanding with the education ministry to spread awareness about voting rights in schools, chief election commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar said on Thursday. The office of the Election Commission of India in New Delhi. (Reuters file photo.)

We are signing a memorandum of understanding with the education ministry for students from class IX and above, CEC said. Catching them young. They have turned 18 and have become a voter, but they are not very much aware of voting, ethos, magnitude. How to vote, whom to vote and what all considerations are to kept in mind -- that background is not ready, he said. The CEC was speaking at an event in Delhi to announce actor Rajkummar Rao a national icon to spread awareness about voting rights.

He added that using the MoU, the EC intends make understanding of voting rights a part of the school curriculum. In the five states, there are 60 lakh first time voters, he said.

The CEC also added that a round of electoral revision will begin across the country Friday. The Commission revises the electoral roll every year, Kumar said, adding: Starting tomorrow, the electoral roll revision will begin in all states other than the five states going to polls.

While urging the youth to actively participate in elections Kumar said: Once you associate with the electioneering process, you will understand the intrinsic power of democracy and value of your vote.

Also Read: Election Commission signs up Newton movies Rajkummar Rao as its national icon

He appealed to influencers from all walks of life including the media to promote the importance of voting and in pushing up the voter turnout in forthcoming elections.

Election commissioner Anup Chandra Pandey said that it has always been the endeavour of the ECI to experiment with new initiatives to enhance voter turnout at elections. Rajkummar Rao is an apt choice for a national icon who has acted in a movie based on conducting elections in tough and challenging conditions, he said.

Election commissioner Arun Goel while highlighting the issue of urban and youth apathy towards elections said that collaboration with the education ministry would be fruitful in bringing about behavioural and attitudinal change and nudging urban youth to actively participate in the elections.
New Delhi:The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued a show cause to Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarmaover his Akbar comment, calling it communally charged and giving the BJP leader until Monday to respond. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. (PTI)

The Commission has found the leader in violation of the model code of conduct, which kicked into force with the announcements of polls in the five states of Mizoram, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana.

No party or candidate shall indulge in any activity which may aggravate existing differences or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic. Further, criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work, the ECI said in its notice

Parties and candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided, the notice said.

The notice comes in response to a complaint on a comment made by Sarma in reference to Congress leader Mohammed Akbar.

The Commission has taken a strict approach against violation of the model code of conduct in the run up to polls. During the Karnataka election, chief election commissioner Rajiv Kumar had highlighted the plummeting level of electoral discourse, adding that the Commission would not let such remarks slide.

Also Read: Wont make false promises to people of Chhattisgarh, we arent Bhupesh Baghel, says Assam CM

During Sarma poll campaign in Chhattisgarh, the leader hit out at the incumbent Congress government. One Akbar comes at one place and he calls hundred more. Dont forget this and try to send this Akbar away as soon as possible otherwise Mother Kaushalyas land will become unholy.

Love Jihad started in our country under Congress rule. These days Chhattisgarh tribals are incited to convert like our Asamese tribals. They are encouraged. Now when we raise our voice against this then (chief minister) Bhupesh Bhagel says that we are secular. Is killing and beating Hindus constitute your secularism? This is Hindus country and they are its Hindus. Dont teach us secularism, Sarma said.

Election will be held in the Congress-ruled state in two phases on November 7 and November 17 with counting of votes scheduled for December 3.

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? El Peru y Ecuador tienen hoy una solida relacion de amigos y socios, destaco la presidenta Dina Boluarte en la ceremonia por los 25 anos de la suscripcion de los Acuerdos de Paz de Brasilia, que conto con la participacion del presidente del Ecuador, @LassoGuillermo. pic.twitter.com/CZW60ulRrs
Security forces foiled an infiltration bid and shot dead five Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, police and army officers familiar with the matter said on Thursday. On September 30, the security forces foiled an infiltration attempt by killing two terrorists along LoC in north Kashmirs Kupwara district (ANI)

Armys Chinar Corps said the Rashtriya Rifles and the J&K Police launched a joint operation near the Line of Control (LoC) and stopped a group of terrorists from crossing the border into Kashmir.

Joint anti-infiltration operationshave resulted in elimination of 5 terrorists who were attempting to cross the Line of Control into Kashmir. 5 AK Rifles and other war like stores have been recovered, it said in a post on X (formerly Twitter). The police said the slain terrorists were members of LeT.

Five LeT terrorists killed. Their identification is being ascertained. The search operation is in progress, Kashmir Zone Police quoted additional director general of police( ADGP), Vijay Kumar, as saying in a post on X.

ALSO READ: BSF returns fire after ceasefire violation by Pak Rangers along J&K border

J&K director general of police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said terror groups were attempting to increase the infiltrations before the onset of winter.

(Before start of winter), their attempt is to push in terrorists from launch pads based in Pakistan into Rajouri-Poonch and Kupwara-Baramulla sectors. Many of these attempts have been foiled. Successful operations on the border have happened and many terrorists were killed while trying to infiltrate, he said.

He added that the number of terrorists active in the area has reduced drastically.

Police and other forces have achieved major success. People are relieved as terrorists have been eliminatedThe number (of terrorists) is not huge and in coming days, they will go down further, he said.

On September 30, the security forces foiled an infiltration attempt by killing two terrorists along LoC in north Kashmirs Kupwara district. Two weeks earlier, security personnel killed three terrorists when they tried to cross the border into Kashmir from Pakistan.
Former Munugode lawmaker and Bharatiya Janata Party national executive committee member Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy on Wednesday resigned from the party while announcing his return to the Congress even as he accused the central government of failing to take action against the corrupt Bharat Rashtra Samithi government in the state. Former MLA Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy said he had joined the BJP 15 months ago hoping that it was the only party which had the capacity to pull down the corrupt, anarchic and despotic family rule in Telangana. (ANI)

The former MLA said in a statement that he decided to quit the BJP and join the Congress in tune with the aspirations of the people of the state.

There is a serious anti-incumbency against the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government in the state. There are clear indications that the people desperately want a change in the government, he said.

Reddy said one-a-half years ago, the BJP had grown into a powerful alternative to the ruling BRS in Telangana, but had subsequently collapsed following certain political developments. The people are now looking up to the Congress as an alternative to the BRS. I, too, have decided to go as per the wishes of the people, he said.

He added he had joined the BJP 15 months ago hoping that it was the only party which had the capacity to pull down the corrupt, anarchic and despotic family rule in the state.

I had quit the Congress and my assembly membership from Munugode. I contested the bypolls to the seat in the last week of October 2022. I had lost the elections with a slender margin due to money and muscle power of the BRS. I thank every leader and worker for supporting me in the Munugode by-elections, he said.

Thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah and BJP national president J P Nadda for reposing faith in him, Reddy, however, alleged that the Centre had failed to take action against the corrupt BRS government, leading to suspicions among the people.

Stating that his only objective was to liberate Telangana from the family rule of K Chandrashekar Rao popularly known as KCR, the former MLA said he was hopeful that his objective would be fulfilled in the next five weeks. He thanked the BJP leadership for giving him an opportunity to fight against the BRS government. I hope the BJP leadership will understand my decision, he said.

Reacting to the development, a BJP leader on the condition of anonymity said: For the last few months, Reddy had not been actively participating in the party programmes. His name was missing from the first list of candidates announced by the BJP on Sunday, as he was keen on contesting the ensuing assembly election from the LB Nagar constituency.

Union tourism minister G Kishan Reddy refused to comment on the matter calling it the leaders personal decision.

It is his personal decision and his wish. But it is not correct on his part to say that the BJP is not an alternative to the BRS. It is his wishful thinking that only the Congress can defeat the BRS, he said.

BJP MP and partys parliamentary board member Dr K Laxman meanwhile, accused Reddy of betraying the party which had given him a position at the national level. He should not make irresponsible statements now ... The BJP is going all out to defeat the BRS in the elections, he said.

Congress MP and Rajagopal Reddys elder brother Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, a member of the PCC screening committee, said he was not aware of his brother joining the Congress. It is for the party high command to decide on his admission. The party will decide whom to field from which constituency. Its decision is final, he said.

BRS spokesman Dasoju Sravan could not be reached for comment.

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Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande on Thursday said that recent global conflicts were a reminder that the countrys security can neither be outsourced nor be dependent on the largesse of others while highlighting the importance of self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector. Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande at curtain-raiser to Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023 (Twitter/@adgpi)

Speaking at a curtain-raiser to Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023, General Pande also enumerated the steps taken by the government to boost Atma Nirbharta (self-reliance), including bringing out positive indigenisation lists, earmarking budget for research and development, corporatisation of ordnance factories, emphasis on defence exports and setting up of defence corridors.

The army chiefs comments came weeks after India slapped an import ban on 98 weapons and systems, including futuristic infantry combat vehicles, shipborne unmanned aerial systems, medium-range precision kill systems, a variety of ammunition, radars, sensors, and equipment for fighter jets, maritime surveillance planes, warships, helicopters and tanks.

Also Read: Rajnath Singh asks IAF top brass to draw lessons from global situation

The fifth positive indigenisation list, released by Union defence minister Rajnath Singh on October 4, took the number of major defence items placed under an import ban during the last three years to 509.

The previous lists banned the import of different types of weapons and platforms, including lightweight tanks, naval utility helicopters, artillery guns, missiles, destroyers, ship-borne cruise missiles, light combat aircraft, light transport aircraft, long-range land-attack cruise missiles, basic trainer aircraft, airborne early warning and control systems, and multi-barrel rocket launchers.

These platforms are expected to be indigenised during the next five to six years.

Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023 is being organised by the army in partnership with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). The first edition of the dialogue will be held on November 3-4 at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.

It seeks to carry out a comprehensive analysis of security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific and will focus on crafting a roadmap for collaborative security measures in the region to fortify Indias position as a ready, resurgent, and relevant stakeholder in the region, officials aware of the matter said.

General Pande said the army was closely working with 340 indigenous defence industries for 230 contracts that will materialise by next year. He added that the army had identified 45 niche technologies in the field of military applications.

Unprecedented trends are shaping the current geo-strategic landscape, the army chief said, adding that Indias rise in stature brings recognition, additional responsibilities and opportunities.

He said the centrality of national interests remains paramount amidst ongoing flux wherein the salience of national security is continuously increasing in the international system.
Chennai: A petrol bomb was hurled at Tamil Nadus Raj Bhavan on Wednesday, police said, adding that the accused was arrested. Police personnel outside the Raj Bhawan after the bomb was hurled in Chennai on Wednesday. (PTI)

A senior police official, who did not wish to be named, said the accused is a habitual offender who had earlier thrown petrol bombs in the BJPs office here last February and a police station. He was drunk and threw the petrol bomb from diagonally opposite the Raj Bhavan, the officer said. His motive is not clear from the way he is responding to the interrogation so far.

The accused has been identified as a 40-year-old habitual offender named Karukka Vinod.

An official of the Raj Bhavan not wishing to be named however said, Two petrol bombs were hurled in front of gate 1 which is used by the Governor. The official said, The Governor was inside his office at that time. No one was injured. Two barricades and plants were damaged.

Prem Anand Sinha, Greater Chennai Additional Commissioner of Police, said the accused threw a bottle which was filled with petrol by lighting it. An alert security personnel spotted him looking suspicious and before they could catch him, he threw one of the bottles which landed near the barricades placed in front of the main gate, Sinha said. He was arrested and kept in the police station. An Inquiry is going on.

He was carrying four bottles filled with petrol, said a statement from Chennai police commissioner Sandeep Rai Rathore. He has 14 offences against him. Due to the high vigil of the security personnel, besides deployment of adequate security there, his attempt has been nullified, the Chennai Commissioner said.

The accused recently came out of jail after being imprisoned for two years.. As of now the security is foolproof in front of the Raj Bhavan and surrounding areas, said Sinha.

The incident comes ahead of the visit of President Droupadi Murmu to Chennai on October 26. She would stay at the Raj Bhavan before attending an event in the Indian Maritime University on the outskirts of Chennai.

The opposition parties slammed the DMK government for a security lapse.

BJPs Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai said that these incidents reflect the state of law and order in Tamil Nadu. While DMK is busy diverting the attention of people to insignificant matters of interest, criminals have taken the streets, Annamalai posted on X. These continuous attack only leaves one to think that the DMK government is sponsoring these attacks. Thiru @mkstalin will now be preparing for the next diversion, as he always does.

T Sengottaiyan, deputy secretary to the Governor, in a letter informed the Chennai police commissioner about threats to the Governors life from DMK leaders and workers, citing attack on his convoy with stones and sticks last April while he was on his way to attend a function at the Dharmapuram Adhinam. He said police did not register FIRs in such cases. Todays brazen bomb attacks on the Raj Bhavan is a consequence of it, he said.

The DMK did not react to the incident. However a senior party leader on condition of anonymity blamed the BJP. They are deliberately creating law and order problems. The investigation will reveal the truth, the leader said.

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The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday hit out at Governor RN Ravi for his remarks on the treatment of freedom fighters in the state, in the latest stand-off between the state government and Ravi. Governor RN Ravi (PTI)

As though the Governor knows the history of freedom fighters (from Tamil Nadu), he is of the opinion that we have failed to honour them, said state higher education minister K Ponmudy on Wednesday. This comes after the Governor recently said that the state is fragmented by caste and that if freedom fighters were born here, they would be reduced to caste leaders.

The minister said that if the Governor indeed cared for freedom fighters, he should have signed a file from Madurai Kamaraj University, which has sought to confer an honorary doctorate on freedom fighter and communist leader N Sankaraiah who is 101 years old.

The Syndicate of the University during its meeting on August 18 passed a resolution to award an honorary doctorate to Sankaraiah as a recognition of his services to the society. On September 20, the Senate decided to award him an honorary doctorate during the Universitys convocation to be held on November 2.

According to the Madurai Kamaraj University Act, 1965, the Senate has the powers to confer honorary doctorates but it requires the signature of the Chancellor of the state universities -- the Governor. Sankaraiah gave up his education to fight for freedom and he was in jail for five years, the minister said. Later, he spearheaded protests for people and was imprisoned for another four years. The Madurai university wanted to bestow this honour on a person who has struggled so much for freedom. And the Governor has not signed on the file. From this, everyone can understand whether he really cares for freedom fighters from Tamil Nadu.

The Raj Bhavan has not commented on the file regarding Sankaraiah.

Earlier on Monday, governor Ravi, while addressing those at the NR IAS Academy in Trichy district on the death anniversary of freedom fighters Marudhu Pandiyar brothers, made remarks that irked the DMK-led government. It pains me that leaders have been reduced to caste leaders though they fought for our countrys freedom the governor had said. ...I wonder if Mahatma Gandhi, Neraji Subash Chandra Bose, Sardar Patel, Shaheed Bhagat Singh had been born in Tamil Nadu, (if) they too have been reduced to caste leaders.

DMKs parliamentary leader T R Baalu rebutted the remark by listing memorials built and programmes held in the honour of freedom fighters by the state government. Baalu said the Governor is roaming the state with money from Tamil Nadus taxpayers and that he should stop betraying the people.

Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Sekar Babu said, The Tamil Nadu Governor is trying every possible way to stop the states growth.

Babu added, He (governor) is behaving like the head of the RSS and BJP in Tamil Nadu and carrying forward their ideology. He is giving our government all sorts of trouble. He is differentiating people on caste and religious lines.

Meanwhile Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai came in support of the Governors remarks that freedom fighters have been reduced to caste leaders in the state. It is true, said Annamalai. If you go to south Tamil Nadu for a guru pooja, its like some India-Pakistan border war zone. Thats how the police and the government are conducting these events. We know they have been reduced to caste leaders.

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India and the European Union (EU) carried out their maiden naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea off the west African coast on October 24 (Tuesday) to boost maritime security cooperation, the navy said in a statement on Thursday. Four warships took part in the drills (Twitter/@PIB_India)

The exercise followed the third meeting of the EU-India Maritime Security Dialogue on October 5 in Brussels. Four warships took part in the drills.

During the exercise, INS Sumedha, an offshore patrol vessel, was joined by three EU member states ships Italian Navy Ship ITS Foscari, French Navy Ship FS Ventose, and Spanish Navy Ship Tornado. The four ships practiced a series of tactical manoeuvres in international waters off the coast of Ghana, including a boarding exercise, a flying exercise using the helicopters embarked on Ventose and Sumedha, and transfer of personnel between ships, the statement said.

The exercise was followed by a knowledge sharing session in Accra, Ghana, which built on the joint experience at sea to improve operational know-how.

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India will resume some visa services in Canada from Thursday, the high commission in Ottawa announced on Wednesday, days after external affairs minister S Jaishankar hinted at a resumption if there were signs of progress in terms of diplomats safety. HT Image

Last month, New Delhi suspended new visas for Canadians and asked Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited what he said was credible evidence of a potential link between Indian agents and the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, in a Vancouver suburb in June. Canada subsequently withdrew 41 diplomats.

India denies any connection to the shooting, and has hit out at Trudeau for making claims without citing or offering evidence.

On Wednesday, the high commission said it had decided to resume issuing some categories of visas after reviewing the security situation and taking into account recent Canadian measures, which it did not enumerate.

It said it would resume issuing standard entry visas as well as business, medical and conference visas.

The move came even as the high commissioner to Ottawa said earlier that the situation is still not ideal to conduct normal diplomatic and consular functions by all Indian diplomats and consular officials.

In a release issued on Wednesday morning, the high commission stated the services will resume for entry, business, medical and conference visas. Visas for emergency situations will continue to be addressed by the high commission and the consulates.

The release said the decision was taken after a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard.

Four of the eight visa categories were covered in the announcement. The categories omitted were tourist, employment, student and film. It had also said the missions had earlier been constrained to suspended visa services temporarily because of safety and security considerations.

In an interview on Tuesday with Hindustan Times, Verma said, If improvement in the security environment for Indian diplomats and consular officials stationed in Canada shows a positive sign, there is a likelihood of some relaxation in the existing Indian visa regime for Canadian citizens.

But there is the lingering problem of pro-Khalistan elements continuing to target Indias diplomats in the country as well as its missions. Without mentioning the pro-Khalistani groups such as Sikhs for Justice or SFJ, Verma said, Security threats per se originate from anti-India activities of inimical elements in Canada, who are very small in number. As long as the core reasons are not dealt with, security threat will continue to be there.

Pro-Khalistan groups organised car rallies to Indias high commission in Ottawa and its consulates in Toronto and Vancouver last Saturday. They featured posters describing Verma as well as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and external affairs minister S Jaishankar as Enemies of Canada. SFJ has multiple programmes on its agenda including the next phase of the so-called Khalistan Referendum in Surrey on October 29.

Indian authorities continuously assess the security of Indian diplomats and consular officials stationed in Canada, as well as that of our diplomatic and consular premises, Verma said.

Canada has provided personal security details to the diplomats while also enhancing coverage of the missions. But, Verma said, Provision of security to key Indian diplomats and consular officials does not necessarily mean that the security environment has improved. It only means that despite threats to their persons, they are able to have restricted physical movement. The situation is still not ideal to conduct normal diplomatic and consular functions by all Indian diplomats and consular officials.

On October 21, Jaishankar said in New Delhi that right now that is what has in many ways been challenged in Canada that our people are not safe, our diplomats are not safe. So if we see progress there, I would like very much to resume the issue of visas. My hope would be that it would be something which should happen very soon.

Issuing of visas was indefinitely suspended on September 21. BLS International, which runs the visa application centres in Canada, posted a message on its Canadian website: Important notice from the Indian Mission: Due to operational reasons, with effect from 21st September 2023, Indian visa services have been suspended till further notice.

Turmoil in the relationship started after Trudeaus statement in the House of Commons on September 18 that there were credible allegations of a potential link between Indian agents and the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18.

In the immediate aftermath, both countries expelled a diplomat each since. Last week, 41 Canadian diplomats were pulled from India after New Delhi said they would lose diplomatic immunity if they remained in station beyond Friday. Canada described that act as mass expulsion of its diplomats, while India has maintained it wanted parity in the number of diplomats.

Nijjar, who was SFJs principal in British Columbia, was gunned down in the parking lot of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara that he headed in the town of Surrey in the province of British Columbia.

While India accused Nijjar of being a terrorist, the accusations against him were never tested in a Canadian court. Canada is yet to provide any evidence of New Delhis involvement in the killing.

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Israel on Wednesday asked India to designate Hamas as a terrorist entity like many other countries have done even as it hailed New Delhi's "solid support" to its operations against the outfit. Israel Ambassador to India Naor Gilon(HT_PRINT)

Israeli ambassador to New Delhi Naor Gilon said the need for proscribing Hamas as a terrorist organisation was taken up with India following the deadly attacks on Israeli cities on October 7.

At the same time, he said the matter was taken up earlier as well.

"The important countries for us are with us. These are the democracies of the world. Having said that...I think it is also time to officially designate Hamas in India as a terror organisation," Gilon said at a media briefing.

The Israeli ambassador said many countries including the US, Canada as well as the leading grouping, the European Union, have already designated Hamas as a terror outfit.

"We spoke to the relevant authorities here. It is not the first time we spoke about it. I think we both understand the threat of terrorism. It is not something we are putting pressure on. We think it is something due because of our shared war on terror," Gilon said about Israel's call for designating Hamas as a terror outfit in India.

"We raised the issue after the attack and we are still in dialogue. We are speaking to India. It is a friendly talk...we see eye-to-eye on the vast majority of things including on counter-terrorism and other strategic issues," he said.

Over 1,400 people were killed in the unprecedented attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7. Hamas has held more than 220 people hostage in Gaza.

According to authorities in Gaza, around 6,500 people have been killed in retaliatory strikes by Israel.

Gilon also thanked India for its "100 per cent" support to Israel in its anti-terror operations against Hamas and especially referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post on X expressing his shock over the terror attacks and expressing solidarity with people of Israel.

"Prime Minister Modi ji was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a very clear statement," he said.

The envoy said Modi's comments unequivocally condemning terrorism set a "very clear tone".

"It is important to us as India is a very close ally. But India is also a very important moral voice of the world. When it comes to terrorism, India is also coming from the point of view of someone who knows what it is talking about being itself a victim of terrorism," Gilon said.

On Israel's war with Hamas, he said it is about the country's survival in the "tough neighbourhood" in the Middle East.

"For Israel, it's a war of being able to survive in the Middle East. We live in a very tough neighbourhood. In the Middle East, if you are perceived to be weak, your life is going to be miserable," he said.

"If people think that they can attack Israel, we will be attacked all the time. So vulnerability is not much appreciated. We have to make sure that people who have bad ideas about us are not able to execute them," he said.

The envoy said any indication of Hamas winning in the war against Israel may trigger a ripple effect in the region and beyond and that is not an option at all.

"The success of Hamas is not an option for moderate regimes in the Middle East. They do not want such a scenario," he said.

The Israeli envoy also alleged that Iran has been supporting Hamas.

"For years, Iran has been financing, training and equipping Hamas," he claimed.

In the past, Iran has rejected the allegation.

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Days after the arrest of Bigg Boss Kannada contestant Varthur Santhosh from the sets of the regional reality show for allegedly wearing a tiger claw pendant, social media has been abuzz with photos of Kannada film actors and politicians flaunting similar lockets. According to the Wildlife Act, wildlife skin, ivory, deer skin, and horns cannot be used or stored (HT Archives)

According to forest department officials, complaints have been filed against Karnataka Rajya Sabha MP and actor Jaggesh, Janata Dal (Secular) leader and former chief minister HD Kumaraswamys son Nikhil Kumarawamy, actor Darshan, producer Rockline Venkatesh and others. The complaints have been registered under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and action has been sought for wearing such pendants.

Pro-Kannada outfit Sarvasanghatanegala Okkuta also demanded action against those who own body parts and skin of tigers. Several other organisations have also written to the forest department seeking action against Darshan and Jaggesh, officials in the know of the developments said.

Meanwhile, Nikhils wedding pictures, in which he can be seen flaunting what looks like a tiger claw pendant, are being widely circulated on social media. Nikhil, while clarifying about the same, on Wednesday said that he was not wearing an original tiger claw.

Responding to the claims, Nikhil said, Photos of me wearing a tiger claw locket during my wedding are being circulated. It was gifted by a relative during my wedding and it is not an original tiger claw. I still have the locket with me. The forest department officials can check it.

Images of a renowned astrologer Vinay Guruji seen sitting on a tiger skin also surfaced on social media. However, the astrologer claimed that it was gifted to him by a person named Amarendra Kirti.

Reacting to the complaints, forest department officer Ravindra Kumar said that they would initiate action after discerning the truth. We have received complaints, but we will have to find out the reality of these images. Once we ascertain, we will take action according to the law, Kumar said.

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on Wednesday said action will be taken against those who violate the law. According to the Wildlife Act, wildlife skin, ivory, deer skin, and horns cannot be used or stored. We have received some complaints and the department will investigate and take action. There is no question of acting soft on anybody. All the complaints will be investigated and action will be taken, Khandre said.

Santhosh was arrested on Sunday night by the forest department for wearing a tiger claw pendant during the reality show. The television personality was arrested from the sets of the television show, after the crew brought him out of the Bigg Boss house. He was arrested on the basis of a suo-motu complaint filed by the forest department under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which makes wearing or displaying any body part of animals a punishable offence.

Santhosh was produced before the Second Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate (ACJM) court at National Games Village in Bengalurus Koramangala on Monday. The magistrate sent him to judicial custody for 14 days.

Meanwhile, Santhoshs relatives and supporters on Wednesday staged a protest near Varthur. The protesters demanded Santhoshs release and also urged Khandre to intervene in the matter.
Kerala education minister V Sivankutty on Thursday said that the state government will not accept an NCERT high-level committee's recommendation that 'India' be replaced with 'Bharat' as the name of the country in school textbooks. Kerala education minister V Sivankutty.

"Citizens have the right to use India or Bharat as said in the constitution. That they are now saying only Bharat should be used as a country's name is a narrow politics. Kerala cannot accept this," V Sivankutty told reporters here.

He also alleged that there is a move by the BJP-led Central government to distort historical facts.

"Earlier, after NCERT had removed certain portions, we included them in the syllabus taught in the state through additional textbooks," V Sivankutty said.

READ | Oppn terms Bharat proposal for NCERT books political gimmick

"If NCERT intends to teach children things that are unconstitutional, unscientific and distorted versions of history, then Kerala will resist it," he added.

Sivankutty also said that the Kerala government will convene the State Curriculum Committee to discuss in detail the work of preparing the 44 textbooks that are currently used in the state keeping the academic interests of the students in mind.

An NCERT panel, headed by historian CI Issac, recommended replacing 'India with Bharat' in school textbooks.

The recommendations were made by a seven-member Committee for Social Sciences, which is among the committees constituted by the NCERT to prepare position papers on various subjects.

READ | 33 more academicians ask NCERT to drop their names from rationalised textbooks

Speaking to ANI over the phone, Issac said the "term India started being used commonly only after the establishment of the East India Company and the battle of Plassey in 1757"."We have unanimously recommended that the 'Bharat' should be used in textbooks for students across classes," Isaac said.

Reacting to the committee's recommendation, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday accused the Centre of seeking to confuse people.

"Why are we saying the Reserve Bank of India, Indian Administrative Service and Indian Foreign Service? In our passports, we have the Republic of India... Why are they confusing the minds of Indians?... Whatever stand they have taken is completely anti-people, anti-India, and anti-Bharat... I am telling you they (NCERT) have been forced by the NDA government. This is completely wrong... You can't change the history of India... Karnataka will continue with whatever there was earlier..." he told reporters.

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 25, ARMENPRESS. Armenia should diversify its relations in the security sphere. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with The Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov, noting that in the case of aggressive actions by Azerbaijan against Armenia, the Collective Security Treaty Organization and Russia did not implement the actions described in the CSTO Charter and the agreement signed between Armenia and Russia

In your speech to the European Parliament, you mentioned that you are disappointed with the behavior of some of your allies. Could you be more specific, what do you think your formal allies in the CSTO allies, particularly Russia, should have done differently, and what are your expectations from your Western partners? asked The Wall Street Journal reporter.

We are not talking about this for the first time and we have talked about the fact that in May 2021 and September 2022, Azerbaijan carried out aggressive actions against Armenia and occupied territories. The Collective Security Treaty and the Charter of the Collective Security Treaty Organization clearly state the actions to be taken when aggression against a member state occurs. What was described did not happen and, of course, it is disappointing for both the Armenian government and the Armenian public.

Also, we have a bilateral agreement with Russia in the field of security, and the actions described in that agreement also did not take place, which also raised very serious questions among both the Government and the public.

As for the relations with other partners, I will be more honest if I say that these situations, in fact, led us to a decision that we need to diversify our relations in the security sector. And we're trying to do that now, answered PM Pashinyan.

To the question that actually right now Armenia still has that agreement with Russia and there are Russian military bases in Armenia and whether Russia's military presence in Armenia is an asset or a liability, Nikol Pashinyan answered: You know, at least at this moment I have already said that, unfortunately, we have not seen the advantages in the sidelines of the cases I have described.

Does this mean that you are planning to call that Russia withdraws its military bases from Armenia? asked the correspondent.

We are not discussing such a question. We are now more focused on discussing other issues, we are trying to understand what is the cause of such a situation, and of course, I also think that this will be the agenda of working discussions between Armenia and Russia, Armenia and the Collective Security Treaty Organization.

Quite senior officials in Russia, including former President Medvedev, have used really insulting words against you and called for a coup against you or removing you from office. How did you respond to all this, and in your opinion, what are the reasons for this campaign against you in Russia? asked Trofimov.

You know, if I'm not mistaken, I didn't directly respond to that and I'm not going to respond publicly in addition to what I have already said. But it is also obvious that those facts you mentioned at least raise questions, and the answers to those questions must be found, because such an approach violates many rules, starting from not interfering in each other's internal affairs and diplomatic correctness and, of course, it also creates problems at personal dimension, because such a wording, such a language and such a position are incomprehensible for people who have worked with each other for quite a long time, noted PM Pashinyan.
The NCERT panel's recommendation to replace "India" with "Bharat" in school textbooks cannot be accepted, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Thursday and urged all citizens to unite and safeguard the essence of India. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan (PTI)

He said the present recommendation could be seen only as a continuation of the recent arbitrary exclusion of portions including Mughal history and the banning of the RSS following Gandhi's assassination from textbooks. The politics behind the move are as clear as day, he said.

In a statement, the Left veteran accused the NCERT of continuously favouring the Sangh Parivar attempts to distort history. Now, the high-level committee for social sciences appointed by the NCERT was showing keenness to "whitewash the fake history created by the Sangh", the CM alleged.

"The recent proposal by NCERT to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks is not acceptable. Our Constitution recognises both names, and this change appears to be another step in the Sangh Parivar's ongoing effort to impose their divisive communalism in our educational institutions and curriculum," Vijayan said in his X handle.

He further alleged that the Sangh Parivar is scared of the politics of inclusion represented by the term 'India', and their aversion to the word is part of that. Vijayan charged that the Sangh has always been against the idea of "India" based on pluralism and coexistence. The NCERT panel's recommendation was the latest example of this, the CM claimed.

"As per the decision of NCERT's Committee on Social Science, the word 'India' should be changed to 'Bharat' in the textbooks of the academic branch. The Constitution refers to our nation as both India and Bharat. The politics behind avoiding India in it is as clear as daylight. The Sangh Parivar fears the inclusive politics represented by the phenomenon called India. The hatred against the word India is part of this", he said.

Vijayan urged all citizens to unite and safeguard the essence of 'India', a nation founded on the principles of unity in diversity.

"Let's celebrate our diverse heritage and embrace our pluralistic identity with pride," Vijayan said, a day after a high-level committee for social sciences, appointed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revise the school curriculum, recommended the replacement of "India" with "Bharat" in textbooks for all classes nationwide.

Earlier in the day, General Education Minister V Sivankutty also came out against the recommendation for the name change and alleged that this was a form of "parochial politics" with a hidden agenda, something the southern state could not accept under any circumstances.

Addressing a press conference in Kollam, Sivankutty stated that the state would reject the panel's recommendation to change the country's name. He asserted that there was a deliberate effort to "saffronise" the entire curriculum, denying the new generation the opportunity to learn the authentic history of the country.

Sivankutty alleged that this national-level curriculum revision was incompatible with democratic values. "Every citizen has the right to use India or Bharat as mentioned in the Constitution," he pointed out.

Asking to use only "Bharat" in the textbook was with a "hidden agenda and parochial politics," and Kerala cannot accept it, he said while explaining the government's stand.

In a federal country, the opinion of states should also have been sought before taking significant decisions, but it is not happening in India now, the Minister alleged.

He recalled that Kerala had responded "academically" when a similar attempt to "distort history" took place at the national level during a previous curriculum revision. Citing figures, he said that out of the 33 crore children of school-going age, only 25 crore actually attend educational institutions. The remaining are not in school for various reasons. As a progressive society, Kerala bears the responsibility to expose attempts to evade such critical issues, Sivanakutty said.

The minister further said that since education is a subject on the concurrent list of the Constitution, the state has the right to take its own decision in that area. If the NCERT intends to give children, through its textbooks, content that is 'unconstitutional, unscientific, and a distortion of real history,' Kerala would defend it by raising academic debates, he said.

The government would also convene the State Curriculum Committee and discuss in detail the work of preparing all the textbooks for the 11th and 12th standards in the state itself. At present, the state is using 44 out of the total 120 textbooks published by the NCERT in these classes.

Responding to a question, the minister said further action would be decided after getting more details on the issue and consulting with CM Vijayan. CPI (M) state secretary M V Govindan also strongly criticised the BJP-led central government over the NCERT's recommendation to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' and said the attempt was to indoctrinate a generation by teaching 'distorted history'. He accused the Centre of trying to change the country's name to Bharat as the opposition front was named "INDIA".

According to NCERT high-level committee chairperson C I Isaac, the panel has suggested replacing the name "India" with "Bharat" in the textbooks, introducing "classical history", instead of "ancient history", in the curriculum, and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects.

NCERT Chairman Dinesh Saklani, however, said no decision has been taken yet on the panel's recommendations.

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Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra courted controversy as the video of his speech in which he counted 'making Hema Malini' dance as a work for his constituency went viral. As Narottam Mishra counted the development works that he did for Datia, he said not only cultural programmes were organised in Datia, but he 'made Hema Malini dance'. Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra's comment on Hema Malini has stirred a row.

Datia is Narottam Mishra's stronghold and it will be Mishra's 4th time from Datia in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly election 2023.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said Hema Malini is a BJP MP but Narottam Mishra did not spare even his own party MP. "Listen to the real meanness of the honourable minister of Sanskari BJP towards women," Digvijaya Singh tweeted sharing the video.

The 230-member Madhya Pradesh assembly will go to the elections on November 7. The campaign has reached an acerbic height with both BJP and the Congress fighting tooth and nail eyeing the state which is one of the four going to the polls next month.

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Five people were killed and 22 others injured when a speeding private bus overturned in Maharashtra's Beed district on Thursday morning, police said. Among those killed, four were residents of Beed district and one was from Yavatmal.

The accident took place at Aashta Fata between 5.45 am and 6 am when the bus was on way from Mumbai to Beed, located about 120 km from here, they said.

The bus was moving at a high speed. Its driver apparently lost control over the wheels and as a result it met with the accident, the police said.

Among those killed, four were residents of Beed district and one was from Yavatmal, Ashti police station in-charge Santosh Khetmalas told PTI.

Besides, 22 people were injured in this accident. They were taken to various hospitals for treatment, he said.

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BJP Lok Sabha MP Nishikant Dubey who levelled serious allegations of cash-for-questions against Trinamool MP Mahua Moitra appeared before the Lok Sabha ethics committee on Thursday for recording his statement. As he was asked about Mahua Moitra's counter-allegation against Dubey of a fake degree, Nishikant Dubey refused to comment and said, "The only question is Mahua chor hai ki nahi (whether Mahua Moitra is a thief or not). Nishikant Dubey and Jai Anand Dehadrai (3rd in pic) appeared before the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee on Thursday in connection with their allegations against Mahua Moitra.

The Lok Sabha Ethics Committee held its first meeting on Thursday in connection with its probe into the allegations against Mahua Moitra. As the meeting started at 12.30pm, advocate Jai Aand Dehadrai whom Mahua Moitra called her 'jilted ex' appeared before the committee first.

It was Dehadrai who provided "evidence" of Mahua Moitra's cash-for-question to Nishikant Dubey and Dubey wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla who referred it to the Ethics Committee. Jai Anant Dehadrai and Nishikant Dubey alleged that Manua Moitra took cash and gifts from industrialist Darshan Hiranandani in exchange for questions against Gautam Adani in Parliament. Out of 61 questions Mahua Moitra asked in Parliament, 50 were on Adani, Dubey complained. Corroborating the allegations, Hiranandani --in a signed affidavit-- accepted bribing Mahua Moitra and added that he used Mahua Moitra's Parliament login to ask questions about rival Adani. In exchange, he fulfilled many demands of Mahua Moitra like renovation of her office etc.

Mahua Moitra rejected all charges and doubled down on Nishikant Dubey and Jai Anant Dehadrai. On Darshan Hiranandani, Mahua Moitra said he must have been threatened to issue the statement.

On what will now happen with the case resting with the Lok Sabha committee, Nishikant Dubey said, "I will reply to whatever questions they ask me. I will appear before the committee whenever it asks me. Documents don't lie. Now the question is whether Mahua is a thief or not." Dehadrai did not interact with the media as he reached Parliament. The advocate is entangled in a custody battle with Mahua Moitra over pet dog Henry  a rottweiler. Jai Anant Dehadrai claimed Mahua Moitra kidnapped Henry and wanted mediation in the ongoing legal battle exchange for Henry.

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Bengaluru: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has authorised a Z-category security cover for veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former Karnataka chief minister, BS Yediyurappa, a senior police officer in the know of the development said on Thursday. BS Yediyurappa (ANI)

According to the officer, the security cover will be limited to Karnataka. The former chief minister has been provided the security cover based on threats from the radical groups in the state, the officer said.

ALSO READ- Everyone is facing power cut shock, says Yediyurappa as he highlights farmers' plight

According to the MHA directives, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) commandos will take over the charge of Yediyurappas upgraded security cover. These comprehensive security measures are designed to prioritise the safety of the BJP leader and involve a substantial deployment of personnel.

This security upgrade is a response to an Intelligence Bureau report, which has pointed out potential dangers to Yediyurappa from radical groups in Karnataka. The CRPF commandos will be responsible for ensuring his security during his stays in Karnataka and his movements across the state, the officer added.

The MHAs order to provide Z-category security cover to Yediyurappa comes shortly after the former chief minister announced his plans of a state-wide tour, alongside other state BJP leaders. The objective of this tour is to highlight the failures of the Congress government and to bolster the partys prospects in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

He was earlier provided security by the Karnataka police. The order to provide him a Z-category security cover has been issued in the backdrop of the leader [Yediyurappa] announcing a state-wide tour. The CRPF will take over his security within a day or two, another officer said.

BS Yediyurappa, a prominent figure in Karnataka politics for nearly five decades, is known for his leadership of the Lingayat community, which constitutes a significant vote bank in the state.
Bharat Rashtra Samithi president and Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Wednesday announced the candidature of former minister and Telangana womens commission chairperson Vakiti Sunitha Lakshma Reddy for Narsapur assembly constituency in Medak district. Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Wednesday announced the candidature of former minister and Telangana womens commission chairperson Vakiti Sunitha Lakshma Reddy for Narsapur assembly constituency in Medak district. (Wikimedia Commons)

Narsapur is among the four seats for which the chief minister did not announce the BRS candidates, when he released the first list of 115 candidates on August 21, for Telangana assembly elections.

Handing Form-B (a form endorsing her as the party candidate) to Sunitha, KCR as the chief minister is popularly known, said that MLA from Narsapur Ch Madan Reddy, who was denied the ticket this time, would be fielded as the party candidate from Medak parliamentary constituency in the 2024 general elections.

The decision to give ticket to Sunitha was taken at the party core committee meeting held in the morning. It is just an internal adjustment. Madan Reddy would contest the next Lok Sabha elections from Medak, KCR said.

He requested Madan Reddy to take the responsibility of ensuring Sunithas victory in Narsapur.

For Jangaon seat, the BRS has already selected MLC Palla Rajeshwar Reddy, in place of MLA Muthireddy Yadagiri Reddy, who was later made the chairman of Telangana State Road Transport Corporation.

The chief minister gave the party ticket to Rajeshwar Reddy on October 15 and introduced him to the people as the party candidate at the public meeting held at Jangaon on the same day.

KCR has made one change in the list of 115 candidates announced in August. He replaced party MLA Mynampalli Hanumantha Rao with another candidate Marri Rajasekhar Reddy, son-in-law of state labour minister Ch Malla Reddy.Though Hanumantha Rao was given the party ticket from Malkajgiri again, he resigned from the party in protest against ticket denial to his son Mynampalli Rohit from Medak. Both Rao and his son joined the Congress recently and were given the party tickets in the first list announced by the party on October 15.

The BRS is yet to announce the candidates for two other seats  Goshamahal and Nampally  both in Hyderabad. In Goshamahal, the BJP announced the candidature of MLA T Raja Singh, after revoking the 15-month-long suspension against him on Sunday. The BRS is likely to field constituency in-charge Nanda Kishore Vyas from there.

In Nampally, which is represented by the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MLA Jaffer Hussain Meraj, the BRS is yet to find a suitable candidate. In any case, the BRS candidate will be a dummy, as the AIMIM is a friendly party of the BRS, a party leader, who refused to be quoted, said.
New Delhi: There is no difference between India and Bharat, but some frustrated people are competing with one another to create a controversy over it, Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Thursday. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said a controversy has been going on for some time on whether our country should be known as India or Bharat. (PTI)

The ministers comments came a day after a political row was triggered over suggestions made by a high-level committee constituted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to replace India with Bharat in all textbooks. It evoked sharp reactions from opposition parties, particularly those from the southern states, who described the move a political gimmick and an attempt to distort history.

ALSO READ- NCERT panel recommends replacing India with Bharat in school textbooks

Pradhan, who was addressing a Vice Chancellors Conference on implementation of National Education Policy (NEP)-2020 in Narmada district of Gujarat, said a controversy has been going on for some time on whether our country should be known as India or Bharat.

But what is the difference? There is no difference between Bharat and India. Bharat is the name of this country. It was during the colonial period that the English-speaking people gave the country the name India, he said. Our Constitution have given significance to both Bharat and India.

The minister added: Bharat is an Indian name; the original name since the beginning of the civilisation. However, these days, in the mind of a few frustrated people there is a competition going on to create a controversy around it.

ALSO READ- Oppn terms Bharat proposal for NCERT books political gimmick

On Wednesday, NCERTs social science panel chairperson CI Issac said the proposed name change was part of the unanimous recommendations by the seven-member panel in its final position paper. However, NCERT chairperson Dinesh Saklani clarified that no decision has been taken yet on the panels recommendations.

Response to the uproar on the recommendation of India to be mentioned as Bharat in textbooks NCERT states that since the development of new syllabus and textbooks is in the process and for that purpose various curricular area groups of domain experts are being notified by the NCERT. So, it is too premature to comment, NCERT posted on X on Wednesday.
SILCHAR: Government employees cannot enter into a second marriage without its approval even if bigamy is permitted under the employees personal laws, the Assam government said in an order last week, reminding employees about a provision that has been part of the rulebook for central and state employees for decades. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had earlier said that his government was willing to prohibit polygamy in the state (File)

The order, issued on October 20, comes against the backdrop of chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarmas announcement in August that his government was prepared to enact a law to prevent polygamy in the state.

It is hereby reiterated that as per the provisions of Rule 26 of The Assam Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 1965, (1) No Government servant who has a wife living shall contract another marriage without first obtaining the permission of the government, notwithstanding that such subsequent marriage is permissible under the personal law for the time being applicable to him. (2) No female Government servant shall marry any person who has a wife living without first obtaining the permission of the Government, the order issued by Assams additional chief secretary Niraj Verma said.

Vermas order warned employees that a violation of this rule would lead to proceedings under the states conduct rules for the imposition of major penalty including compulsory retirement. against those government servants found to have violated Rule 26 of the Assam Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 1965, which itself is a gross violation of misconduct on the part of a government servant having large bearing on society.

The Disciplinary Authorilics besides initiating Departmental Proceedings shall also take necessary steps for inflicting legal penal action by the court of law, as per provisions of law whenever such cases are detected, the order said.

Senior lawyer Hafiz Rashid Choudhary said the provision has always been in the rulebook and state government employees are required to submit an affidavit when they join the civil service.

To be sure, a similar provision has been in the rulebook at least since 1964 when the first version of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules was notified. This set of rules formed the template for the conduct rules notified by state governments.

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The Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha has summoned Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on October 31, to depose before it over the cash-for-query charge against her. The panel had convened to record oral evidence from BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and Supreme Court lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai, who have accused Moitra of accepting bribes to ask queries targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and industrialist Gautam Adani. TMC MP Mahua Moitra(PTI)

"The two people who were summoned today  the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey  were heard attentively. After that, it was decided that Mahua Moitra would be called on 31st October. She will come and present her part. The committee has also decided that the IT ministry and MHA will be sent letters to make her details available," said Vinod Sonkar, the chairman of the panel.

Jai Anant Dehadrai, whom Moitra had called "jilted-ex", was cross-examined by the panel, sources said.

The panel also asked Nishikant Dubey if he was bringing charges against Moitra because she had accused him of having a fake degree.

Sources said the panel was taking the charges against Moitra "very seriously".

Dubey has submitted a written complaint to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla citing documents provided by Dehadrai, saying she had shared her login credentials of Lok Sabha's official website with businessman Darshan Hiranandani to allow him to post questions in Parliament directly.

In the letter, Dubey had written that the lawyer, who was close to Moitra before they fell out, had shared "irrefutable evidence of bribes exchanged" between her and businessman Darshan Hiranandani. Moitra had dismissed the charges as a jilted ex's lies and accused the Adani Group of targeting her to stop her from raising questions on the conglomerate. She had also accused the BJP of conspiring to expel her from the Lok Sabha.

Hiranandani later filed an affidavit admitting he had Moitra's login credentials.

Before his meeting with the Ethics Committee, Nishikant Dubey said, I will reply to whatever questions they ask me. I will appear before the committee whenever it asks me. Documents don't lie. Now the question is whether Mahua is a thief or not.

In March, Moitra, in a series of tweets, accused Dubey of falsely declaring "MBA from Delhi University" as one his qualifications in his election affidavits in 2009 and 2014. She claimed he didn't mention the MBA degree in his 2019 affidavit.

In 2019 Lok Sabha affidavit, Honble Member makes no mention of MBA and instead only states he has a PhD in Management from Pratap University Rajasthan in 2018. Please note- One cannot do a PhD from UGC deemed uni without valid masters degree (sic), she had said.

Referring to Dubey's charge that her website account was accessed from Dubey when she was in India, she wrote on X earlier this week , "Who is lying? 2 days ago Fake Degree Wala said NIC already given details including Dubai logins to probe agency. Now Ashwini Vaishnaw says NIC will give info in future IF asked by LS or Ethics Comm. BJP welcome to do hit job on me but Adani+Godda perhaps not best strategists!"

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Kolkata: Twelve current and former students of Jadavpur University, who were arrested in connection with the death of a first-year student in August this year, have been charged with abetment to suicide of a minor in the charge sheet filed by the Kolkata Police on October 19, senior Kolkata Police officials said. A 46-page report submitted by an internal probe committee set up by the university found that the minor student was subjected to severe ragging and sexual harassment on the night of August 9. (Utpal Sarkar)

The first-year student of JU, aged 17, was allegedly ragged and sexually harassed before he jumped to his death in the hostel on August 9. The police arrested 13 students after the incident.

While the 12 charged students are in judicial custody, one former student who was arrested on charges of allegedly preventing police from entering the campus during the course of investigation was released on bail a few days later.

We have submitted the charge sheet in which 12 former and current students have been charged under section 305 (abetment of suicide of a minor) of the Indian Penal Code. They have also been charged under section 12 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, said a senior IPS officer aware of the developments.

The police initially registered a murder case against the 12 accused on the basis of a complaint lodged by the victims father. Senior varsity officials, including the registrar and dean of students, were also questioned.

ALSO READ- Jadavpur probe details horrific sexual humiliation of freshman

A 46-page report submitted by an internal probe committee set up by the university found that the minor student was subjected to severe ragging and sexual harassment on the night of August 9. HT has seen a copy of the report.

The police probe also found that several former students were illegally staying in the hostel.

After the students death the boarders led by Sourav Chowdhury, a former student who graduated in 2022 with a MSc Mathematics degree held multiple general body meetings to decide on the story they would tell the varsity officials, police and media. During questioning they stuck to this narrative, which appeared to be tutored, said a police officer who asked not to be named.

The internal probe committees report stated that the victim ran frantically from one room to another in a completely naked state trying to hide from his tormentors before he allegedly jumped to his death. The report, however, was inconclusive on how he fell from the second-floor balcony of the varsitys main hostel.

Information regarding the victims movements, just prior to his fatal fall, is rather uncertain and vague, as none of the depositors gave a clear description of the fall, which could help in ascertaining the cause and sequence of the mishap. Many reported seeing him run towards the end of the corridor with Md. Arif (one of the accused) following him, but thereafter, the depositors seem to have lost sight of him, the report said.

ALSO READ- All is not well at Jadavpur University, West Bengals premier teaching institution

The victims parents could not be contacted despite repeated attempts.

Jadavpur University was adjudged the top university in West Bengal by NIRF in 2023.

Both the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and the West Bengal Commission for Protection of Child Rights censured JU authorities for allegedly flouting guidelines of the Supreme Court and University Grants Commission (UGC) on ragging. UGC itself is also believed to have taken a dim view of the matter. The university has belatedly put some anti-ragging measures in place.

We have already shifted first year students to a separate hostel. CCTV cameras have bene installed and restrictions have bene imposed on the movement of outsiders and hostel inmates, said a senior JU official who asked not to be named.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has visited Jermuk.

Jolys first stop in the Armenian town was the European Union Mission in Armenia (EUMA) operating base.

It is a pleasure to be here in Jermuk, looking forward to learning more about the work that has been done by the EU mission which Canada is joining. Canada is the first country outside of EU joining this mission. So, well be talking about the logistics, how we can integrate this important mission which is important to address the humanitarian issues in the region but also the fact that it is important to bring much peace and stability, the Canadian FM said during a meeting with EUMA observers.

Joly will then visit Armenian military outposts.

She will also meet with forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh.
A hoarding portraying Congress former president Rahul Gandhi as prime minister in 2024 and Uttar Pradesh unit's chief Ajay Rai as state's chief minister in 2027 surfaced outside the party's Lucknow office on Thursday. The poster has been put up by a party worker Thakur Nitant Singh Nitin, news agency ANI reported. A banner hoarding, portraying party MP Rahul Gandhi as the PM in 2024 and state Congress chief Ajay Rai as CM in 2027, comes up near the party office in Lucknow(ANI)

The poster also included the goals and policies of the Congress party.

The development comes days after a similar poster declaring Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav as the 'future Prime Minister' of India surfaced outside the party's office in Lucknow, to which BJP had reacted and termed it as "daydreaming".

Read here: Akhilesh Yadav's witty reply on 'Future PM' poster amid INDIA row

However, Yadav had dismissed the posters' claim saying that no one is going to become the prime minister just by putting posters. No one is going to become the Prime Minister just by putting posters. If any supporter has put up a poster, he is expressing what he wants. The goal of Samajwadis is to stop BJP, ANI quoted the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister as saying.

The poster war has triggered tension between the Congress and Samajawadi Party, the two key members of the opposition newly formed Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc.

Both the parties have entered a fresh spat after Rai announced that he would go to meet jailed SP leader Azam Khan who is in Sitapur jail after he and his son were convicted in the fake marksheet case.

However, the move hasn't gone down well with the SP and Yadav questioned the Congress for not supporting Azam Khan when he was being targeted by the administration. "Where was the Congress when Azam Khan was being targeted, the leaders of the Congress were in-fact targeting Azam Khan," Yadav had said.

The parties have also been irked over the seat sharing arrangement for Madhya Pradesh assembly elections scheduled to take place on November 25. The war of words intensified last week when Yadav alleged that some Congress leaders are siding with the BJP adding that he would not have trusted the grand old party if he had known that "Congress would betray them".

Read here: Kamal Nath says 'chhodo Akhilesh Vakhilesh' as SP vs Congress intensifies

Meanwhile, MP Congress chief Kamal Nath gave a curt reply when asked about allegations of betrayal against Congress. "Are bhai chhodo Akhilesh Vakhilesh (leave questions on Akhilesh)," he said. Additionally Ajay Rai accused SP of "directly or indirectly" helping BJP. He said if SP wanted to stop BJP in its tracks, it would have to support the Congress in Madhya Pradesh.

(With inputs from agencies)
The Election Commission on Thursday served a show-cause notice to senior Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over an alleged poll code violation during her speech in Rajasthan's Dausa. The commission has asked Priyanka Gandhi to respond to the notice by 5pm on October 30. Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addresses a public meeting, in Jhunjhunu.(ANI)

Priyanka Gandhi, the BJP noted in its submission, told a public meeting in Dausa on October 20 that she saw it on TV that when an envelope of donation made by Modi at a temple was opened, it carried only 21.

Gandhi said, I recently saw something on TV. I don't know if it is true or not. PM Modi went to the Devnarayan temple and submitted an envelope in the donation box. People were wondering what it contained, but when it was opened 21 came out of it.

The BJP on Wednesday made a representation to the Election Commission of India and demanded action against Priyanka Gandhi, accusing her of "invoking the personal religious devotion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi" to make false claims during her poll campaign.

"Today we met members of the Election Commission regarding a statement by Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on October 20 that violated the Model Code of Conduct and RP Act. We want to ask ECI if Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is above the Model Code of Conduct. We demand ECI to take action against her," Law Minister Arjun Meghwal said.

While issuing notice to Priyanka Gandhi, the poll panel reminded her of a provision in the poll code which states that parties and candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders of workers of other parties.

The Model Code of Conduct has come into force with the announcement of poll dates.

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A court in Qatar has handed down the death penalty to eight former Indian Navy personnel who have been detained in the country for over a year. The Indian government expressed shock over the sentencing and vowed to explore all available legal options to secure the release of its citizens. The eight men were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services. (HT File)

The eight men, including decorated officers who have commanded major Indian warships, were working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatars armed forces and security agencies. Their bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention was extended by Qatari authorities.

Commander (retired) Purnendu Tiwari, who is among the detained Indians, served as Al Dahras managing director and commanded several warships while serving with the navy.

Also Read | Who are 8 Indians sentenced to death in Qatar?

Deeply shocked

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment," the ministry of external affairs said in a statement.

"We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added.

The ministry stressed that they attach high importance to the case and have been following it closely.

We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, the ministry said, refusing to make any further comment at this juncture due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of the case.

People familiar with the matter recently told HT on condition of anonymity that the eight men have been charged with espionage. Qatari and Indian authorities have never provided details of the charges against the men, who were held in solitary confinement for long spells. The people further said an Indian journalist and his spouse were recently ordered by Qatari authorities to leave the country for reporting on the case.

The Indian nationals had their first trial in late March.

Meetu Bhargava, the sister of one of the officers, had sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back, reported ANI.

In a post on X on June 8, Bhargava had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene.

"These Ex Navy officers are the pride of the nation & again I request our Hon'ble Prime Minister with folded hands that it is high time that they all are brought back to India immediately without any further delay pl. @narendramodi @AmitShah @rajnathsingh @MOS_MEA" she posted on X.

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Union defence minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday asked top brass of the Indian Air Force (IAF) to examine the rapidly changing global geopolitical situation for lessons in the Indian context. Rajnath Singh addressed the inaugural session of Air Force Commanders Conference in New Delhi (Twitter/@rajnathsingh)

Stressing the need to enhance operational preparedness, the defence minister highlighted the importance of joint planning and execution of operations by the three armed services.

Singh made the remarks while addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Air Force Commanders Conference in New Delhi on Thursday. IAF chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari briefed the defence minister on the operational preparedness of the air force.

There are new challenges emanating from the global security scenario. We must always be ready to deal with them, a defence ministry release quoted Singh as saying.

Singh said there was a need to analyse new trends in air warfare and learn from them to strengthen the countrys defence preparedness. He also asked the IAF commanders to focus on strengthening air defence systems and the use of drones.

The defence minister further praised the IAF for its role during the recent humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and other flood-affected areas and congratulated the air force for successfully organising the IAF Day parade and air display at Prayagraj on October 8.

The biannual conference involves discussions on charting lAFs way ahead, given the current geopolitical environment and technological imperatives. Eminent national security experts and accomplished personalities from various fields are invited to present their views during the conference, the statement added.
Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Thursday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing central agencies to intimidate Congress leaders in Rajasthan as the state gears up for the assembly elections. Addressing a press conference at Congress headquarters in New Delhi, Pilot expressed his concern over the timing and questioned the intent behind the actions of the federal agencies. Congress leader Sachin Pilot addressing the media during the press conference at AICC Headquarters, in New Delhi, India, on Thursday, October 26, 2023. (Photo by Sanjeev Verma/ Hindustan Times)

The actions taken by the agencies of the government of India in Jaipur and other cities today... The timing, purpose, and intent of those actions are completely questionable, the Congress leader told the press briefing.

He further alleged that the BJP was aware of their declining popularity in the state and was resorting to these tactics to undermine the Congress party's chances in the upcoming assembly elections.

"BJP knows they are losing the assembly elections, and that's why they are conducting raids without any substantial basis," Pilot said.

Emphasizing that the Congress party was against corruption and was in favour of impartial investigations, Pilot said "if someone is found suspicious with proof, then action should be taken against them."

His comments come in the wake of Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at the residence of state Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra as part of a money laundering probe into the exam paper leak case and summons to chief minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav in a foreign exchange violation case linked to a Mumbai-based firm of hotels and resorts.

In a message to his party workers, Pilot said that they should take inspiration from Congress MP Rahul Gandhi.

"We should take inspiration from Rahul Gandhi. Various cases were lodged against him; he was summoned time and again by the ED and he appeared before them. So Congress has nothing to fear. We will fight the election with full force and win," he said.

Gehlot flayed the ED action, saying terror has been unleashed in the country. He alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government.

Hitting back, senior BJP leader and Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat dismissed the charge as baseless and said Gehlot and other Congress leaders are trying to politicise the probe agency's action out of "frustration".

"Ashok Gehlot is frustrated with action against corruption because his government has broken all limits of corruption. His own party leaders, MLAs, advisor and minister have said that this is the most corrupt government of the century, he told reporters at a press conference at the BJP headquarters.

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The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Thursday in an apparent dig at China. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addresses the 22nd session of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Thursday.(PTI)

Jaishankar's remarks came as he addressed the 22nd session of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO at Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

"SCO should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation," the minister said.

READ | Continuous interference: Jaishankar on India invoking diplomatic parity with Canada

In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian states plays a key role, he said.

Beijing is investing billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan. India has protested against the projects in Pakistan as it is being laid through the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

"To improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. Such initiatives should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," he said.

"The Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) could become prosperity enablers," the minister added.
NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has favoured increasing the compensation for death in hit-and-run road accident cases from the existing 2 lakh, underlining that it was essentially the States failure to identify the erring vehicle that led an accident to be classified as a hit-and-run case and deserved higher compensation. The Supreme Court has reserved its verdict on the application on hit-and-run road accident cases (HT FILE PHOTO)

Essentially, a hit and run accident involves failure of state machinery...Somebody has lost his life due to fault of the state and you (state) are giving a compensation of 2 lakh only? a bench of justices AS Oka and Pankaj Mithal said, nudging the government to agree to a higher compensation.

The bench, which was hearing a public interest litigation on reforms in dealing with road accidents, reserved its verdict on an application by KC Jain, who sought a better deal for the families of the road accident victims.

At the October 19 hearing, the bench made it clear that it cannot order the central government to raise the compensation amount but raised several questions. On what basis should it be 2 lakh for death? Due to the default of the State, one can go under public law remedy and file a suit to claim higher compensation. We cannot issue a mandamus (direction or order) but the government should reconsider the amount of 2 lakh by exercising its rule-making power, the bench said.

A road accident is classified as a hit-and-run accident if it is not possible to identify the vehicle responsible for the accident.

Additional solicitor general (ASG) Vikramjeet Banerjee said the 2 lakh figure was decided after discussion with stakeholders, a reference to the General Insurance Council, the umbrella body of insurance companies responsible for paying hit-and-run compensation. Even a case of murder will be a failure of the State, Banerjee said.

Hit-and-run accidents are covered under Section 161 of the Motor Vehicles Act, a provision that requires the central government to frame a scheme to compensate victims who die or suffer injuries. For paying compensation, a separate fund called the Motor Vehicles Accident Fund has been created into which all insurance companies contribute their share. Neither the Centre nor state governments contribute to this fund.

The scheme was last revised in 2022 when compensation for death cases was increased from 25,000 to 2 lakh and for injuries from 12,500 to 50,000.

The court noted that though Section 161 provides for interim compensation, the Centre has not incorporated it in the 2022 scheme. We will recommend Centre use its rule-making power to provide for interim compensation. This machinery will not work unless there is interim relief, the bench said.

Jains application said compensation was provided to only 1.2% of the total 442,575 victims of hit-and-run cases which took place between 2017 and 2021.

Official figures indicate that compensation was awarded to only 4,958 persons in the five years, of which 3,137 were cases of death and 1,821 for injuries suffered. After the introduction of the 2022 scheme, compensation was paid in 78 claims (72 deaths and 6 injured) till February 2023. During this period, 80,000 hit-and-run accidents were reported.

Advocate Gaurav Agarwal assisting the court as amicus curiae pointed out three reasons to explain why the claims settled in hit-and-run cases were low. There is a lack of awareness among victims to seek compensation for hit-and-run accidents. The amount being so low and the process so cumbersome, hardly anybody bothers to file a claim. And finally, the victim has to approach the district concerned where the accident took place to file the claim. This may not suit victims who reside in a far-flung district, Agarwal said.

Both Jain and Agarwal submitted that the amount of 2 lakh needs to be enhanced.

Jain said the government could link the compensation to the cost-of-living index.

Agarwal said the Centre could consider a periodic increase in the 2 lakh figure. He added that if victims were unable to file claims, the state machinery must try to reach out to victims.

In this regard, he urged the court to fix timelines by which the police tells the victim to seek compensation under the hit-and-run compensation scheme.

Similarly, he suggested that the accident report and other documents to help make a claim should be forwarded by police to the claims inquiry officer (CIO) within a month of the incident. Within 60 days of the accident, the CIO should complete the inquiry and submit a report to the claim settlement officer, Agarwal added.
Discussions at multiple levels for over 10 days preceded Indias resumption of some visa services in Canada on Thursday as the Canadian authorities showed greater responsiveness to New Delhis concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic premises and personnel, an Indian official said. Police separate protesters outside the Indian Consulate in Toronto. (AFP/File)

The official refused to comment on whether the parleys included ministers from the two countries even as British business daily The Financial Times reported this month that external affairs minister S Jaishankar secretly met his Canadian counterpart, Melanie Joly, in Washington DC last month.

Joly, who has said such diplomacy will remain private, on October 19 said Canada will continue to engage India and remains committed to dialogue. She was speaking after what Canadians described as the mass expulsion of 41 diplomats from India.

The Indian official said visa services for Canadians have been eased in four out of eight categories for the benefit the persons of Indian origin (PIOs) and business interactions. Canadian citizens of Indian origin without Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards were unable to travel to India due to the suspension of visa services. The issue was resolved with the beginning of entry visa processing on Thursday. This will address 85% of those without OCI cards, the official said. The entry visa is limited to PIOs. Business, medical, and conference visas will also be serviced.

The official said tourist, student, employment, and film visas are yet to be resumed but will be dealt with as the circumstances dictate.

The Canada-India Business Council president and CEO Victor Thomas called the resumption a vital step in ensuring business leaders can both maintain current relationships and facilitate future growth. It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amid these unusual times.

The Canada India Foundation (CIF) chair Satish Thakkar echoed Thomas and welcomed the resumption, saying the community was facing a lot of hardship. ...CIF was consistently conveying communitys concerns in this regard to both the governments.

The visa services were resumed two days after Indian high commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma said the situation was still not ideal for all Indian diplomats and consular officials to conduct normal functions.

Canada has provided personal security details to the diplomats while also enhancing coverage of the missions.

Verma maintained security to key Indian diplomats and consular officials does not necessarily mean that the environment has improved. It only means that despite threats...they are able to have restricted physical movement.

India last month suspended new visas and asked Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau cited credible evidence of a potential link between Indian agents and pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjars murder in Vancouver in June.

Both countries expelled a diplomat each. Last week, 41 Canadian diplomats were pulled from India after New Delhi said they would lose diplomatic immunity if they remained in station beyond Friday. Canada described it as the mass expulsion of its diplomats. India has argued it wanted parity in the number of diplomats.

On October 21, Jaishankar said that Indian diplomats were not safe in Canada. He added if there was progress, India would like to resume the visas.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Anirudh Bhattacharyya Anirudh Bhattacharya is a Toronto-based commentator on North American issues, and an author. He has also worked as a journalist in New Delhi and New York spanning print, television and digital media. He tweets as @anirudhb. ...view detail
Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president A Revanth Reddy has demanded that all the money to be given to the beneficiaries under various government welfare schemes, including the Rythu Bandhu, be released by November 2, before election notifications are issued. Telangana will go to polls on November 30. Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president A Revanth Reddy (Twitter Photo)

Reddy, along with several party members, approached the Election Commission of India (ECI) and demanded that the cash benefits should be transferred immediately before November as chief sinister K Chandrashekhar Rao may try to delay the release of the money.

Present at the party briefing were AICC in charge of Telangana Manikrao Thakre, TPCC chief Revanth Reddy, Lok Sabha MP Uttam Kumar Reddy, and Congress Legislative Party (CLP) Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka.

The members want the cash benefits to be issued by November 2, 2023, since the State Assembly Elections 2023 will be held on November 30, he said.

Addressing the reporters in Delhi on Thursday morning, Reddy said, Yesterday, a petition was given to the Central Election Officer on behalf of the Congress party, in which the election officials concerned with welfare schemes were named. It has been clearly stated that the entire money transfer program must be completed within two or three days before the notification.

On the issue of alleged misuse of official places such as the chief ministers residence and MLAs camp offices for political activities, Reddy said, These places, built at the cost of the public exchequer, are being used for political activity. Since the moral code of conduct has come into place, we have represented to the ECI that these office buildings, official bungalows, not be used for BRS (Bharat Rashtra Samithi) party and political activities.

Alleging that the top officers the Indian Administrative Services (IAS) and Indian Police Services (IPS) officers working against the Congress party in the state, Reddy said that such officers work as a private army to the BRS government, adding that they have also raised the issue and have filed several complaints in this regard.

The TPCC chief further requested the ECI to remove retired officials from service.

The BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) and BRS are misusing government institutions to defeat Congress in Telangana elections. Some officers have been at the same place for many years, working to provide election funds to BRS. By giving regular posting to retired officers, they are being made to work like a private army to harass the opposition party, he said.

Lok Sabha MP Uttam Reddy said that the issue was raised before the Election Commission. The Congress has also urged the ECI to appoint IAS and IPS officers as SPs and collectors in all districts and provided them with specific officer names who appear to prioritise party agendas over government responsibilities, Uttam Reddy said.

Revanth Reddy also spoke about the Medigadda barrage and the Kaleshwaram project and questioned the chief ministers silence over it.

The failure of the BRS government in the construction of the Kaleshwaram project exemplified the Medigadda issue. This shows that the government failed to conduct proper soil tests and technical adherence before its construction, he said.

He alleged that the chief minister was trying to escape responsibility and said that if ordered, he is ready to contest the November 30 Assembly polls against CM Rao from the Kamareddy constituency.
Two terrorists have been killed in an ongoing encounter in Machhal sector of Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara, Kashmir Police said on Thursday. Kashmir Zone Police informed about the ongoing encounter in Machhal sector through a social media post. (HT File)(Rep image)

"Based on a specific information provided by Kupwara Police, an #encounter has started in Machhal sector in which two #terrorists have been killed so far. Operation underway. Further details shall follow," Kashmir Zone Police said on X.

The operation is still underway, the police added.

Earlier in the day, in a joint operation with Jammu and Kashmir Police, personnel of the Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control in the Kupwara sector.

In a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & Intelligence agencies on 26 Oct 23, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the #LoC in #Kupwara sector. Operations are in progress, Chinar Corps of the Indian Army said on X.

Last week, two Pakistani terrorists were gunned down by security forces after an infiltration bid was foiled in Baramulla's Uri sector. Based on the inputs from Intelligence agencies, troops were put on a high alert and the counter-infiltration grid was strengthened.

According to the Army release, taking advantage of bad weather along with incessant rainfall and poor visibility, a group of heavily armed terrorists attempted to infiltrate across the LoC in the Uri sector.

At around 3pm, the terrorists were intercepted by the alert troops resulting in a heavy exchange of fire which continued till last light resulting in the encounter of two terrorists. The area was kept under surveillance throughout the night, the release added.

Next day, a thorough search of the encounter site was conducted leading to the identification of tell-tale signs and recovery of heavy war-like stores including two AK series rifles, six pistols, four Chinese grenades, blankets, and two blood-stained bags containing Pakistani and Indian currency notes, Pakistani medicines and eatables, the army spokesperson said.

As per own assessment, recovery of two blood-stained bags confirms that at least two terrorists were grievously injured forcing them to shed their load and flee across the LoC. Due to inclement weather conditions, search operation is suspended, which will resume on opening up of weather, he said.

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. Secretary of the Security Council of Armenia Armen Grigoryan will visit Malta on October 27 at the invitation of Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg.

Grigoryan will participate in the Peace Formula meeting, his office said in a press release.
Nations are now so sharply and almost irretrievably divided across regions and religions that it is difficult to be optimistic about the future of the globe. Until recently, we believed that we had come far away from life in the state of nature which the eminent 17th century English political philosopher Thomas Hobbes famously described (Leviathan) as solitary, poor, nasty, brutish and short. The recent happenings in Gaza and Israel radically change our perspective. IThe attack on Israel by Hamas is a reminder that there is no limit to insanity or immorality in international relations. (REUTERS)

The question that nags the most is: Are we less brutish and more humane than when Hobbes wrote? My response is an emphatic no. The attack on Israel by Hamas, a dreaded terrorist outfit fully supported by a country such as Iran and a few other anti-Semetic outfits, is an ugly reminder that there is no limit to insanity or immorality in international relations. It seems to me that autocratic leaders and organisations formed only to propagate hatred, which are not averse to employing violence at the slightest provocation, continue to dictate the course of events. Vengeful attacks  as Israel is planning for  will be unleashed ad nauseam, much to the consternation of smaller nations.

Where there are no violent exchanges, routine transactions could be frosty. I saw this personally prevailing between Turkey and Cyprus, with the border between the latter and Northern Cyprus (held by Turkey) cutting across the capital city of Nicosia and one could easily sense insecurity and hostility in the air.

It is also now true that classical terrorism and modern warfare have become intertwined. This is dangerous beyond words. The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelams (LTTE) conduct in Sri Lanka and on our own land until a few years ago, illustrated how terrorism easily blends with transactions between nations. Unfortunately, international bodies such as the United Nations are only marginally effective in preventing violence or diluting it. There is no visible anxiety among nations to give them more teeth. I do not visualise any enlightenment among nations that would help bring about selflessness and sharing of resources to maintain order in society.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) based in The Hague, which tries war crimes, has been a major disappointment. With China, India, Russia and the US refusing to sign the Rome Statute that created ICC, there is no available deterrence against countries that commit war crimes. Against this backdrop, it is not illogical to surmise that the smaller nations will have to fend for themselves unless they are willing to align themselves with powerful alliances.

The International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) has a severely limited charter. Contrary to popular belief, it has no penal authority. It is a paper tiger whose role is only one of information sharing. Drug smuggling, trafficking of human beings, stealing of antiques and distribution of pornographic images will remain unabated. There is reason to believe that their expansion will be exponential in the years to come.

What is remarkable is that India has honed its ability to walk the tightrope in a highly complicated world. Practising dynamic neutrality of the kind our first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru ushered in, we have made a strong impression among the comity of nations. Our response to the cruel events in Ukraine some time ago and in West Asia more recently, are examples of how a mature and humane nation could make an impact on reducing tension between nations and rushing relief to battered nations. But for how long can we do this without hurting or embarrassing ourselves is the question. There may come a time when India will have to take sides, with its attendant consequences on our border.

I have seen in my life of 80 years at least four major conflagrations  Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq and Ukraine  all of which have had great international impact. It is no surprise that the West, wittingly or unwittingly, got drawn into each of these major conflicts. This is unlikely to change in the conceivable future. It seems reasonable to believe that West Asia will be the focus of attention of all major powers for quite some time. With Hamas establishing an uncomfortable fact that there is nothing like 100% security, either to the state or individual citizens, I believe there will be more and more recklessness in relations between nations.

I am especially concerned about our neighbour Pakistan which indulges in misadventure at every conceivable opportunity. Hamass imaginative intrusion into Israel could give some ideas to Pakistan. This will naturally call for greater alertness on the border, both with Pakistan and China.

This situation is unlikely to change for the better in the foreseeable years. This is not, however, dismaying because throughout modern history we have seen so many wars between nations, but mankind has survived, highlighting that we can still move forward by drawing lessons from history. We can derive some energy from G20 and other similar movements that encourage economic cooperation, and incidentally a tacit agreement on security issues.

Nelson Mandela once said that if you want to make peace with your enemy, you will have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner. This applies to the whole world, not merely to Israelis and Palestinians. Cynicism has unfortunately overtaken wise counsel. This is what the future order in the international community will have to reverse.

RK Raghavan is a former CBI director and a former Indian High Commissioner to Cyprus. The views expressed are personal

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A high-level committee constituted by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revise the school curriculum has recommended that India should be replaced by Bharat in all textbooks, panel chairperson CI Issac announced on Wednesday, stoking a political controversy. HT Image

Issac, who heads the committee for social sciences, said the name change was part of the unanimous recommendations by the seven-member panel in its final position paper. Other recommendations included introducing classical history instead of ancient history as a component of the syllabus, and highlighting Hindu victories in battles over the centuries.

Bharat is an age-old name. The use of the name Bharat finds its mention in ancient texts such as Vishnu Purana, which is 7,000 years old, said Issac, who teaches history at CMS College in Kottayam and is closely linked to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).

The term India started being used commonly only after the establishment of the East India Company and the battle of Plassey in 1757. Therefore, the committee unanimously recommended that the name Bharat should be used in textbooks for students across classes, he added.

The recommendations, which have been submitted to NCERT, will now be taken up by committees working on drafting textbooks that will be used by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and several state boards, reaching tens of millions of students across India.

NCERT chairperson Dinesh Saklani said no decision had been taken yet on the panels recommendations. NCERT states that since the development of new syllabus and textbooks is in the process and for that purpose various curricular area groups of domain experts are being notified by the NCERT. So, it is too premature to comment, the body wrote on X later.

The development marks the latest episode in an ongoing controversy over the name that began last month after an invitation for a G20 dinner sent out by President Droupadi Murmu in her capacity as President of Bharat instead of President of India set off furious speculation that such a move could be part of the legislative agenda in the special session of Parliament.

Days later, the nameplate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit in New Delhi also read Bharat instead of India.

The special session later passed a historic bill setting aside seats for women in national and state legislatures but speculation around replacing India with Bharat has refused to die down.

Article 1(1) of the Constitution states India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States.

The Opposition accused the government of election gimmicks and suggested that the name change was inspired by the 26-party grouping opposing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) calling themselves the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, or INDIA.

Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar said that the word Indian was used for institutions like the Reserve Bank of India, Indian Administrative Service, and that the Republic of India was written on Indian passports.

Who is saying that we are not Bharatiyas? But, we are also proud Indians. I think whatever stand they have taken is anti-people, anti-India and anti-Bharat, Shivakumar said.

Issac said that the committee  one of the 25 formed by NCERT in 2021 to prepare position papers on various subjects and themes  recommended introducing classical history instead of ancient history in textbooks.

He said that the British divided Indian history into three phases  ancient, medieval and modern.

The term ancient means old. The ancient era being taught presently paints a picture as though the country was in darkness and there was no scientific awareness during that time. However, there are so many examples of Indias achievements in that age including Aryabhattas work on the solar system model, he said.

Therefore, we have suggested that the classical period of Indian history be taught in schools along with medieval and modern periods, Issac said.

He said that the committee also recommended highlighting Hindu victories in textbooks.

Our failures are presently mentioned in the textbooks. But our victories over the Mughals and sultans are not, said Issac, who is also a member of the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR).

For instance, the textbooks currently mention that Muhammad Ghori invaded India. However, there is little mention that before he could leave India, he was killed by the Kokari tribe, he said.

Besides, the committee also recommended the introduction of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the curriculum of all subjects. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises on teaching the rich heritage of ancient and eternal Indian knowledge and thought as a guiding principle.

NCERT is revising the curriculum of the school textbooks in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The council has recently constituted a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee (NSTC) to finalise the curriculum, textbooks and learning material for these classes.

Issac joined the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the RSS student wing, in 1975. Currently, he is the state working president of the Kerala unit of the RSS-linked think tank Bharatheeya Vichara Kendram.

In the past, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat had made a strong pitch for using Bharat instead of India.

BJP Lok Sabha member Parvesh Verma said last month that he was preparing a private members bill seeking to amend the Constitutions preamble to remove the word India.

In June 2020, the Supreme Court sent a petition seeking renaming of India as Bharat for the Centres consideration. Bharat and India are both names given in the Constitution. India is already called Bharat in the Constitution, then Chief Justice of India (CJI) SA Bobde had orally said in that hearing. The petitioner, Namah, a Delhi resident, said in his plea that the word Bharat instilled national pride while India is of Greek origin.

Rajesh Jha, an assistant professor at Delhi University said that while the Constitution uses both India and Bharat, in academics, the term India is used in English and Bharat in Hindi.

Such a settled issue has been dealt in very politico-cosmetic manner to divert the attention from the serious challenges faced by the education sector in recent times. The public spending on education has gone down and large number of vacancies of teachers have not been filled. The scarcity of teachers very adversely affects the quality teaching of social sciences, about which the panel is silent, he said.

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A live TV debate between Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLA KP Vivekananda and BJP's Kuna Srisailam Goud turned violent when the former grabbed the BJP candidate by the throat on Wednesday. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi MLA lunged at the BJP leader and grabbed his throat on live TV(X/ @kishanreddybjp)

Terming goondaism as a hallmark of KCR's party, union minister and Telangana BJP president G Kishan Reddy shared the video on his X (formerly Twitter) platform alleging that the BRS MLA from Quthbullapur attacked the BJP candidate from the constituency as he was unable to answer the question posed by the latter.

"    -  BJP MLA candidate from Quthuballapur @KunaSrisailam attacked by BRS sitting MLA. Its shocking when a contesting opposition candidate is attacked and scuffled in open public, imagine if BRS returns to power even common people will be attacked in same manner ?   ," he said on X.

Vivekanand attacking Goud by holding the latter's throat is an act of timidity, Reddy said in a statement. He said police should book a case against the BRS MLA failing which the BJP would take up a legal battle.

KP Vivekananda is the sitting MLA from Quthbullapur assembly constituency while the BJP has fielded Kuna Srisailam Goud against Vivekananda.

The BJP has further demanded that the BRS MLA be disqualified from contesting the election and asked the Election Commission to take action against him.

Meanwhile, BRS spokesperson Sravan Dasoju alleged Goud made a reference to the BRS MLA's father though both were supposed to maintain decency and decorum during the debate. "Both of them are supposed to have maintained decency, decorum," and be restrained. Goud should not have driven the debate 'attacking' Vivekanand's parents in the first place and the ruling party MLA should not have attacked his rival. "Both could have been sensible and realised the whole world is watching them," Dasoju told PTI.

Assembly elections in Telangana will be held on November 30 and counting of votes will take place on December 3. Telangana is set to witness an intriguing triangular contest between the BRS, Congress, and BJP.

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The Ministry of External Affairs has expressed "deep shock" after receiving initial information that a court in Qatar has announced the death penalty for 8 Indians employed with the oil-rich country's Al Dahra company. In a statement, it said they were in touch with the family members and were exploring legal options. The ministry said it will provide "consular and legal assistance" to the victims. The Ministry of External Affairs of India (File)

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it said.

Who are these eight men? They are former personnel of the Indian Navy. They had been in the custody of Qatar authorities since August 2022. External affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said last they had been held on unspecified charges.

These eight men include decorated officers who have commanded major Indian warships. They were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provides training to the country's armed forces.

India was expecting a judgement this month. The seventh hearing in the case took place on October 3.

On October 1, India's Ambassador to Qatar met these men on October 1. The Indian government has been trying to repatriate these men.

People familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity that the eight men have been charged with espionage.

Both the governments haven't spelled out details of charges against them.

They have been identified as -- Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh.

They were detained in Doha.

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Karnataka Primary and Secondary Education minister Madhu Bangarappa on Wednesday said that the state government would follow the Supreme Courts order on permitting hijab inside school and college premises. Madhu Bangarappa

The ministers clarification comes after Karnataka Higher Education minister MC Sudhakar on Sunday announced the governments decision of allowing students to wear a hijab while writing competitive exams in the state.

We will follow the SCs order on hijab. If the Supreme Court allows for the hijab to be worn, if there is no condition, that [ wearing hijab] will continue. We will follow the law, Bangarappa said.

On Sunday, after briefing chief minister Siddaramaiah about the progress made by the department on various issues, Sudhakar had announced that the state government has decided to allow students to wear a hijab, while writing competitive exams in the state.

The minister further clarified that the candidates will be allowed to wear a hijab while appearing for recruitment-related examinations conducted by Karnataka Examinations Authority. He, however, appealed to such students to arrive at examination centres early to avoid any malpractice.

Sudhakars comments sparked a controversy with pro-Hindu groups across the state threatening to stage protests.

Bangarappa further slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), alleging that it was focussing on issues to garner votes. BJP is picking up all these issues because its their election agenda. They dont have any progressive and development agenda. They have only sentimental issues about how they can polarise votes. People are sick of all this. People want a progressive government, Bangarappa said.

The hijab controversy first started in January 2022 when six students of the Government Pre-University (PU) College in Udupi accused the institutes administration of not permitting their entry into the university premises while wearing the hijab. The Muslim girls protested outside the institute after being denied the entry.

In retaliation, several Hindu students started attending classes wearing saffron shawls at several educational institutions. The protest soon spread to other parts of the state as well, leading to protests and agitations at several places of Karnataka.

On March 15 last year, a full bench of the Karnataka high court, while upholding the ban imposed on hijab by the then BJP-led state government in schools and colleges, declared that wearing hijab is not mandatory in Islam. The executive order by the high court, declared in February 2022, sparked widespread protests.

A bunch of petitions challenging the high courts verdict is pending before the Supreme Court.
One depressed person is bad enough. Surely 10 of them, all in one room, would be worse? Luckily, as group therapy finds acceptance across counselling centres in India, the opposite is turning out to be true. Those working through grief, anxiety and depressive disorders are realising that sharing the emotion lightens the load. Watching someone elses healing journey play out is boosting ones own healing too. Yes, its maddening that 10 people with so much chaos are coming together, says Delhi psychotherapist Jayati Kalra. But think of it as a ripple effect. You dont know the extent of the impact one person can have on another. In Dead to Me (2019-), Jen Harding (Christina Applegate) and Judy Hale (Linda Cardellini) meet at a grief support group.

In Hereditary (2018), Toni Collette joins a grief support group after the gruesome death of her daughter.

Much of it is just talking and listening. Anxiety, depression and grief can be isolating, says Gupta. Being able to talk openly with people going through similar experiences creates a nurturing community. It also lets the breakthroughs come from peers, rather than a doctor. When others share their experiences, they verbalise them in a way that resonates with how someone else may be feeling. This is incredibly powerful, Nagpal says. Even superheroes need help. Captain America attends group therapy After Thanos uses the Infinity Stones to disintegrate half of Earths population in Avengers: Endgame (2019).

You also learn to express yourself better  a kind of healing in itself. At Kalras sessions on intergenerational trauma, the seven group members discuss how caste, class and gender are part of the issue. Most people with a difficult past have experiences that havent been verbalised, she says. The group is women-only, which wasnt planned. So, we are also working on how women have been so conditioned to be cut off from anger and aggression, and how hard it is for them to express these emotions without thinking about the consequences.

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Dhordo, the gateway to the renowned white desert in Gujarat, is all set to host the Rann Utsav from November 1, 2023 to February 20, 2024. This year, Dhordo acquires greater significance as it has recently been named one of the best tourism villages in the world by World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UNWTO), the only village in India to be conferred this prestigious award. (Also read | Travel: Handy tips from travellers who visited 50+ countries) Dhordo, winner of UNWTOs best tourism village award, is ready for Rann Utsav. Heres a quick guide to Dhordo(Gujarat Tourism)

Heres a quick guide to Dhordo & the Rann Utsav. Remember, prior permission is required to visit the salt desert.

Rann Utsav is an annual festival held in Dhordo(Gujarat Tourism)

What to see/do:

The White Desert (1 km from Dhordo): The largest salt desert in the world, the Rann of Kutch is a visual treat. Camel safaris are available and visiting on a full moon night is an experience beyond comparison. Prior permission, however, is required to visit the desert.

Kala Dungar (10 km from Dhordo): Kala Dungar is a hill and also the highest point in the entire Kutch area. This is an excellent viewing point for the desert and provides a panoramic view from an astounding height of 458 feet above sea level.

Purneshwar Temple: Said to be one of the oldest temples in the region.

Banni Grasslands (5 km from Dhordo) is a bird lovers paradise as it is a resting spot for all migratory birds.

Lala Bustard Sanctuary is on the Indian top 10 list of places to spot the Great Indian Bustard.

Desert Safaris: You can explore the vast expanse of the salt desert on camel-back or in traditional Kutchi vehicles.

Camel safaris are a must-do in Dhordo(Gujarat Tourism)

Bird Watching: The nearby Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary and other wetland areas provide excellent opportunities to observe various bird species.

Adventure Activities: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Dhordo offers adventure activities like parasailing, paramotoring, and ATV rides on the salt flats.

Camping: Tourists can stay in traditional Bhungas or use luxurious tented accommodations.

During the Rann Utsav, Dhordo turns into a tent city (Gujarat Tourism)

Star Gazing: Due to its remote location and minimal light pollution, Dhordo is an excellent place for stargazing.

You can do day trips to Bhuj, Mandvi, Dholavira, Narayan Sarovar, Lakhpat

Local artisans set up shops at the Rann Utsav venue(Gujarat Tourism)

What to eat:

Kutchi Dabeli: A spicy and flavourful potato-filled burger served with chutneys and pomegranate seeds.

Kutchi Pakwan: Crispy, deep-fried snacks served with chutney, often enjoyed with tea.

Kutchi Peda: A traditional sweet, slightly roasted to give it a smoky flavour.

Kutchi Mawa: A delicacy from Bhirandiyara village near Dhordo.

Kutchi Samosa: A samosa with special Kutchi spice filling.

Kutchi Kadhi: A tangy yogurt-based curry with gram flour dumplings, flavoured with spices.

Kutchi Khichdi: A simple, one-pot dish made from rice, lentils, and spices, often served with ghee or curd.

Zaykedar Rotla: A special dish made from Bajara millet roti cooked the Kutchi way.

Also try Kutchi Bhel & Kutchi Pav Bhaji.

Rann Utsav is an annual festival held in Dhordo (Gujarat Tourism)

Shopping: During Rann Utsav, tourists can shop for a variety of local handicrafts and artisanal items in Dhordo. Local artisans set up numerous shops at the event venue, where tourists can purchase Kutchs renowned Rogan art, Kutch embroidery work, and a wide range of Kutch handicrafts.

Dhordo specialises in silver jewellery, mirror work and Mutua, a special kind of leather embroidery.

Department Stores: Selection Centre and Palav the Fashion Mall at Bhuj.

During the Rann Utsav, Dhordo showcases the regions traditional art, craft & architecture(Gujarat Tourism)

Flea Market: Handy Crafts is an important and popular flea market here.

Head to Zura (30 km from Dhordo) for embroidered footwear and other kinds of leather embroidery

Go to Nirona (40 km from Dhordo) for Rogan Art, Lacquer wooden work and Copper Bell art. You can also do Craft Trails here that Gujarat Tourism offers.

Where to stay:

Book a tent in the Tent City: https://www.rannutsavbooking.com/, Email: booking@whiterannresort.com, Phone: +91 7440 4040 40

Online permit for entry:

For Online Entry Permit of White Rann at Dhordo, visit rannpermit.gujarat.gov.in/. The traveller has to upload his/her ID proof for verification.

Permit fee: Free entry for children up to 5 years. 50 per child (between 6 and 12 years), 100 per person (above 12 years). 25 for two-wheeler, 50 for four-wheeler booking.

Getting there:

By plane: The nearest airport is in Bhuj, around 80 kms away. The domestic airport has few flights. The closest international airport is Ahmedabad (384 kms).

By rail: Bhuj Railway station at a distance of 80 kms and has few trains stopping by.

By road: The journey by road is scenic and is accessible easily from Bhuj (80 kms), Ahmedabad (384 kms), and other cities of Gujarat.

Rann Utsav Travel packages:

Thomas Cook & SOTC (all prices per adult): 2 night, 3 days: Starting at 11,599, 3 night, 4 days: 16,799; Little Rann of Kutch with Greater Rann of Kutch: 37,490.

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The smartphone encapsulates the deepest intimacies of its owners existence. It knows what ones closest companion might not. From daily conversations and banter, social engagements, business associations and romantic relationships to health conditions, banking transactions, shopping choices, and food preferences to ones most intimate fantasies, the smartphone knows it all. Given that the hand-held device holds within it a persons whole universe, the risk of its contents being revealed to the State or anyone else has far-reaching implications. PREMIUM Are mobile (cell) phones entitled to a more elevated protection of privacy given their extraordinary status as reservoirs of private and personal information?

The meteoric rise in the importance of privacy as a human right and in India, its recognition as a fundamental right, is attributable in no small measure to the overwhelming impact of technology in recent times. Technology has exposed the ordinary citizen to the loss of privacy and made her vulnerable to surveillance both by the State and private corporations.

Are mobile (cell) phones entitled to a more elevated protection of privacy given their extraordinary status as reservoirs of private and personal information? In the celebrated KS Puttaswamy case, the Supreme Court identified myriad different facets of privacy that included communicational privacy, associational privacy, informational privacy, decisional privacy, intellectual privacy and behavioural privacy. The right to protect from disclosure of the contents of ones smartphone touches many of these different aspects of privacy.

In Riley vs California (2014), the United States (US) Supreme Court recognised that the expression cellphone is a misnomer since so much more than mere phone conversations take place on the phone. Chief Justice Roberts held: Modern cell phones are not just another technological convenience. With all they contain and all they may reveal, they hold for many Americans the privacies of life. The fact that technology now allows an individual to carry such information in his hand does not make the information any less worthy of protection for which the Founders fought.

The US Supreme Court also recognised that modern cell phones are of great value for both lawful and unlawful purposes. They can be used in committing many serious crimes, and they present new and difficult law enforcement problems. In Riley vs California, the US Supreme Court unanimously held that the police may search digital information on a cellphone seized from an arrested individual, but only with a warrant. There are exceptions, however, where exigencies may require dispensation with a warrant. Such exigencies include situations where there is a need to prevent the imminent destruction of evidence, to pursue a fleeing suspect, or to protect persons who are seriously injured or face the threat of imminent harm.

Under the Fourth Amendment of the US Constitution, which affords protection against unwarranted search and seizure, a warrant is required to specifically contain the things to be seized. The question arises as to whether a search warrant for the smartphone itself was excessively broad and disproportionate if the warrant failed to state with specificity, the particular items stored in the smartphone to be seized. A smartphone is likely to contain a range of different types of information. Can all of this be made the subject matter of a search in investigating a particular crime?

A recent judgment of the Karnataka High Court in Virendra Khanna vs State of Karnataka dealt with how mobile phone records may be investigated. The court held that while it cannot, suo motu, direct a party to furnish a password, passcode or biometrics to access smartphone records, an investigating officer can approach the court seeking necessary directions to provide a password for the search of a smartphone. Such a need may arise under emergent circumstances or during the regular course of investigation. In emergent circumstances, where it may not be possible for the investigating officer to obtain a warrant from a court of law, there must be reasonable grounds for believing that it is necessary to carry out such a search expediently and that unless such a search is carried out immediately, the evidence may be lost or that public harm may take place. There must be a recording in writing by the investigating officer in such cases specifying reasons for conducting such a search without a warrant.

If the search is carried out in the normal course of an investigation, then notice must be issued to the accused to produce the mobile phone, failing which a search warrant be obtained. While issuing a search warrant, the concerned court must indicate the role of the device in question in the crime, the nature of the search to be done and the place where the search has to be conducted.

In a situation where the accused does not part with the password to enable access to the smartphone despite a search warrant from the court concerned, the investigating agency would be at liberty to have the password broken into. Perhaps a better course of action would be to draw an adverse inference rather than to open up the entire record of the smartphone, which may throw up information, both relevant and irrelevant. Data found on a mobile phone would have to be proved independently in a trial and therefore, its collection cannot, according to the high court, fall foul of the law against self-incrimination.

The court also laid down guidelines for the sealing of the device upon its seizure so that the contents already stored on it cannot be tampered with subsequently. Nor can the contents be disclosed to third parties. There must be awareness of these guidelines to ensure that investigation takes place in a manner that does not compromise the privacies of life. Any loss of liberty can pass muster only if it is in accordance with the procedure established by law. Otherwise, it would fall foul of Article 21 of the Constitution.

Madhavi Goradia Divan is senior advocate and additional solicitor general, Supreme Court. The views expressed are personal
A cybersecurity researcher claimed to have discovered an unprotected database of a diagnostic centre based in Noida, which reportedly housed over 1.2 crore records comprising medical diagnostic scans, test results, and potentially sensitive medical records. Representative Image(Getty Images/ Representational photo)

In an email shared with Hindustan Times, Jeremiah Fowler, a security researcher from Ukraine, shared the images of the purported lab records and said, The database contained a massive amount of medical test results that included the names of patients, doctors, if the testing sample was done at home or at a medical facility, and a wide range of other sensitive health information. The total number of records was significant, at a count of 12,347,297 with a total size of 7TB. Upon further investigation, the documents were marked as belonging to an India-based company called Redcliffe Labs.

What does the company say?

Redcliffe Labs has vehemently denied any compromise of their lab records. Pabhat Pankaj, the company's chief technology officer, said there isn't any data breach that has happened at Redcliffe Labs. He asserted, "All our databases are stored within private VPCs, making them inaccessible to the public, even with credentials. They are further safeguarded by encryption at rest."

However, Fowler claimed to have shared his findings and received an acknowledgement of his discovery. HT has seen the unverified acknowledgement email. The request for clarification on the same didn't elicit any response from the company.

While access was reportedly restricted on the same day, Fowler added, it remains unclear how long the database was exposed and whether any unauthorized individuals accessed the purported health records.

ALSO READ: Centre to launch software to detect dark patterns used by firms on web

What does the alleged leak comprise?

According to the report published on websiteplanet.com, the alleged leak includes the following details:

 A total of 12,347,297 records were found in the database, with a cumulative size of 7TB.

 Documents marked as "Reports": The database contained 1,180,000 of these objects, with a total size of 620.5GB. These documents included test results and appeared in a basic format without a header logo.

Smart Report Storage: The database contained 1,164,000 objects, totalling 1.5TB in size. These documents presented test results in an infographic style.

 Folder named "Test results": The database contained 6,090,852 objects in this category, with a combined size of 2.2TB.

Miscellaneous folders with non-password-protected files: The database comprised 3,912,445 objects, totalling 2.7GB in size. These folders contained .PDF files, internal business documents, logging records, mobile applications and development files.

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A Chinese boy used a surprising tactic to avoid school after not finishing his homework. As per reports, he called the police and claimed that his dad hit him. However, after the initial investigation, the police realised that the seven-year-old made up the story to avoid facing the consequences of not doing the homework given at school. The police officer gave a tutoring session to the kid instead of punishing him (Representative image). (Unsplash/K8)

What did the kid say to the police?

The incident took place in Lishui in Chinas Zhejiang province, reports the South China Morning Post (SCMP). The incident went viral after a video of the kids conversation with the cops was shared on the Chinese social media platform Weibo.

As per SCMP, in the video, an officer was seen asking the boy, Did you call the police? Who hit you? To which, the kid replied, My dad. The officer inquired further and lightly tapped the boy to understand how he was hit. After the boy replied that is how his father hit him, the cop grew suspicious as the hit wasnt very hard.

Finally, after further investigation, the officer concluded that the kid called the cops just to avoid school after not having completed a task given by the teacher.

How did the police react?

Instead of punishing the kid, the understanding police officer decided to help him and gave him a tutoring session. As per reports, he said to the boy, Let uncle first finish correcting the test paper for you, then Ill take you to school. Remember, every child has an obligation to receive an education at school.

What did netizens say about this incident?

The South China Morning Post reported that people posted varied reactions on Weibo. While some praised the officer for handling the situation cleverly, others shared that kids should receive proper education about the consequences of making a false report. Some also talked about the pressure that parents put on children regarding their education.

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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. On October 27, Hungary's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto will arrive in the Republic of Armenia on a working visit.

The meeting of the Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Hungary will take place in the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which will be followed by a joint press conference of Armenian and Hungarian FMs.
Satya Nadella, the chairman and CEO of Microsoft, acknowledged that the company made a big did he say big mistake in exiting the smartphone market and that it could have been handled better. He also said it was one of the most difficult decisions he had to make at the company. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.(Getty Images via AFP)

Nadella recently shared his regrets over giving up on Windows phone and the mobile market in an interview with Business Insider. He acknowledged that this his decision, which drew a lot of attention and criticism.

Nadella revealed about regretting his decision regarding Windows phone when he was asked if there is any kind of strategic mistake or a wrong decision that he regrets.

"The decision I think a lot of people talk about  and one of the most difficult decisions I made when I became CEO was our exit of what I'll call the mobile phone as defined then. In retrospect, I think there could have been ways we could have made it work by perhaps reinventing the category of computing between PCs, tablets, and phones, the CEO told Business Insider.

Earlier, in 2019, Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates had also expressed his dissatisfaction with the Windows phone going out of production.

Bill Gates told CNBC, "Were in the field of doing operating systems for personal computers. We knew the mobile phone would be very popular, and so we were doing what was called Windows Mobile. We missed being the dominant mobile operating system by a very tiny amount. We were distracted during our antitrust trial. We didnt assign the best people to do the work. So its the biggest mistake I made in terms of something that was clearly within our skill set. We were clearly the company that should have achieved that, and we didnt. We allowed this Motorola design win, and therefore the software momentum to go to Android, and so it became the dominant non-Apple mobile phone operating system globally.

When did Microsoft shut down its Windows phone?

The first Windows phone was released with the Windows Phone 7 operating system in 2010. While it was a success in the beginning, the phone soon started to see its downfall. Over the years, Microsoft made changes in the model and upgraded it, but the phone still could not keep up with the competitors. Eventually, in 2017, Windows phone was discontinued, and the devices were moved to the end-of-life stage on January 14, 2020, reports History-computer.com.

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Air Canada did the right thing in apologizing to a British lawmaker named Mohammad Yasin who was recently singled out for additional questioning while flying to and from Canada, the country's transport minister said on Wednesday. Mohammad Yasin(X)

Canadian Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez said "we called Air Canada" after hearing about the incident where British Labour Member of Parliament Mohammad Yasin was peppered with questions while traveling with a British parliamentary committee to Canada last week.

"Air Canada apologized and apologizing was the right thing to do," Rodriguez told reporters in Ottawa.

Air Canada said in a statement that additional screening procedures when checking in any customer may be prompted by any authorized government agency and airlines are required to comply.

"After receiving such a prompt, we followed the prescribed procedures for this customer and, although this resulted in some discomfort for him, for which we have apologized, the customer was cleared and able to board and stay on his travel schedule," the country's largest carrier said.

Labour MP Clive Betts told the U.K. House of Commons on Monday that Yasin was asked whether he was carrying a knife or other weapon and where he was born.

"He was told it was because his name was Mohammad," Betts said. "The questioning was undertaken by officials from Air Canada and we believe the Canadian government."

The challenges of a "racist and islamophobic" nature were raised both at airports in London, England, and in Montreal, Betts said. Yasin was again challenged in Toronto.

He was eventually able to board.

Yasin told the BBC on Tuesday that "it was stressful and humiliating to be singled out in such an aggressive way by immigration control, especially when travelling in a group as a representative of the British Parliament on long arranged committee business."

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) declined comment citing privacy concerns. (Reporting By Allison Lampert in Montreal Editing by Marguerita Choy and Diane Craft)
US President Joe Biden said the US will ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself against these terrorists as Israel has the right and the responsibility to respond to the slaughter of their people. "Hamas does not represent the vast majority of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip or anywhere else. Hamas is hiding behind Palestinian civilians and is despicable, and, not surprisingly, cowardly as well," Biden said addressing a joint press conference with Australian PM Anthony Albanese. Biden said Israel has the right and responsibility to respond to the slaughter of its people.

The US-authored draft resolution on the Gaza crisis was vetoed by Russia and China in the UN Security Council.

Israel-Hamas war: What happened in the last 24 hours?

1. The US-authored draft resolution condemned Hamas' attack on Israel and called for the release of the hostages. The resolution did not call for a ceasefire and recognised the rights of both countries to defend themselves. Russia, China, UAE voted against the resolution.

2. Gilad Erdan, the Israeli ambassador to the United Nations, said he was shocked that these countries voted against the resolution. "Those who have voted against the US-led resolution have shown the world that this Council is incapable of doing the most basic task of condemning ISIS-like terrorists and cannot confirm the right to self-defence of the victim of these heinous crimes. Israel has been attacked and continues to be attacked," he said.

3. "If any of your countries endured a similar massacre, I am certain that you would act with much greater force than Israel," he said.

4. A total of 10 nations voted in favour of the resolution while two abstained.

5. To counter the US-authored draft, Russia put forward its proposal calling for an "immediate, durable and fully respected humanitarian ceasefire".

6. The US and the UK vetoed the Russian draft and eventually both resolutions were rejected.

7. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the first time acknowledged that he is answerable for the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel -- the security lapse. "We will examine in detail, we will get to the bottom of it. The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me. But all this will happen later," Netanyahu said.

8. Russian President Vladimir Putin said the Israel-Hamas conflict could spill far beyond the borders of the Middle East.

9. Biden said he asked Israel to delay the ground invasion of Gaza to facilitate the process of the return of the hostages but did not demand the military operations be stalled.

10. "What I have indicated to him, is that if thats possible to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Biden said adding that a two-state solution will be the way forward once the war is over.

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A Qatar court on Thursday announced a death penalty to eight former Indian Navy personnel who have been detained in the country for over a year. The men were working for a defence service provider organisation  Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services  owned by a retired member of the Royal Omani Air Force. (File)

The eight men were working for a private firm when they were detained by the Qatari intelligence service in Doha in August last year.

Indian ambassador in Qatar and his deputy met the men on October 1, before their seventh hearing on October 3, after they were granted consular access. Indian authorities have also been in constant touch with the families of the arrested men.

What is the case and who are the men?

The eight Navy veterans have been identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Commander Purenendu Tiwari, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Amit Nagpal and Sailor Ragesh.

The men were working for a defence service provider organisation  Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services  owned by a retired member of the Royal Omani Air Force. The owner of the firm was also arrested along with the men but was released in November last year.

The private firm provided training and related services to Qatars armed forces.

The charges against them have not been made public by the Qatari government, which has led many to believe that it was a security-related matter. The charges have been mentioned in the hearing but neither the Qatari nor Indian government has made them public.

As per media reports, the men were charged with the offence of spying for Israel on Qatar's advanced submarines, which have stealth capabilities that make them harder to detect.

The men were held in solitary confinement for months at end since they were detained.

The Central government has long maintained that it was exploring legal channels to ensure the release of the arrested personnel.

What has the Indian government said?

The Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday, Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities

Qatar's intelligence agency State Security Bureau arrested them and the Indian Embassy learnt about it mid-September. On September 30, the men were allowed to speak to their families briefly.

The first consular access was granted in October last year.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said recently that India was closely following the proceedings in the court of first instance.

Speaking about the charges, he said in mid-October, Yes, the charges were presented as part of the hearings, but I wouldnt like to get into the legal part of itThey have legal representation in court...we are now looking forward to what the court judgement is and we hope that they are able to return back to India."

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sanskriti Falor Sanskriti Falor is a Senior Content Producer at the News Desk of HT Digital. Having worked in Digital Media for the past two years, she is interested in covering civic issues and global affairs. ...view detail
Israel has told civilians in the northern Gaza Strip, including residents of Gaza City, to move to the south of the enclave, saying it will be safer there as the military attacks Hamas following its Oct. 7 cross-border assault. Palestinian women look out from a hole in a damaged wall following Israeli strikes on the Rafah refugee camp in the southern Gaza Strip(AFP)

However, Israeli warplanes have continued to hit sites in southern Gaza, spreading fear among the evacuees that they are just as vulnerable there as they were in their homes in the north. Here is an overview of the situation.

WHY IS ISRAEL STILL HITTING THE SOUTH?

Since telling Gazans to head south, the Israeli military (IDF) has continued to pound targets across the area, killing an unknown number of civilians. In all, authorities in Gaza say 6,546 Palestinians have died since Israeli strikes started on Oct. 7.

Residents said the bombardment of the south intensified on Oct. 25. One strike brought down several apartment buildings in Khan Younis, some 10 km (6 miles) from the Egyptian border.

The IDF has said that even if Hamas's main power centre is in Gaza City, it is nonetheless entrenched among the civilian population across the enclave.

"Wherever a Hamas target arises, the IDF will strike at it in order to thwart the terrorist capabilities of the group, while taking feasible precautions to mitigate the harm to uninvolved civilians," the military said on Wednesday, reiterating previous statements.

The military has said the homes where militants live are "legitimate targets" even if civilians live alongside them.

"The so-called private home is not a private home," a senior Israeli air force officer told reporters in a recent briefing.

WHY DID ISRAEL ORDER THE EVACUATION SOUTH?

The Israeli military said on Oct. 12 that nearly half of Gaza's 2.3 million population should move to the southern half of Gaza within 24 hours. The military said the order was aimed at moving civilians away from "Hamas terror targets", which it believes are concentrated in the north.

Military spokesman Jonathan Conricus subsequently said: "We are preparing the area for significant military activity in Gaza City. That is the next stage. That's why we are asking civilians to go south of the Gaza River."

Israel has massed troops on the border with Gaza and is widely expected to launch a land invasion.

On Oct. 18, the military urged residents of Gaza to evacuate to what it called a humanitarian zone in Al Mawasi, on the coast of southern Gaza.

Israel renewed its warnings on Oct. 22, saying that anyone staying in the north could be identified as sympathisers of a "terrorist organisation" if they did not leave.

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE MOVED?

Hamas has urged Palestinians to ignore the Israeli warnings.

Israel said on Wednesday it had attacked Hamas roadblocks that it believed were stopping people evacuate.

Despite Hamas's attempts to stop an exodus, residents and international aid organisations say there has been a mass displacement of people away from the north and other areas of the enclave seen as a especially vulnerable to attack.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimated on Oct. 24 that more than 1.4 million people are internally displaced (IDPs) within Gaza.

Gaza's border crossings with both Egypt and Israel are closed, effectively trapping residents inside the enclave.

WHAT HAS THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY SAID?

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said giving hundreds of thousands of people just hours to leave their homes was "dangerous and deeply troubling". Many Western governments have called for a pause in the fighting to open humanitarian corridors for the trapped civilians. Arab nations have called for Israel to stop the war.

(Reporting by Crispian Balmer; editing by James Mackenzie and Nick Macfie)

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Israel-Hamas war news highlights: The United Nations has warned that it is on the verge running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply cut down relief efforts in the area that has been already devastated due to Israeli airstrikes. Palestinians inspect the damage of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City on October 25.(AP)

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and around one third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, according to the World Health Organization.

Earlier this week, Israel allowed a small number of trucks carrying aid to enter Gaza from Egypt but barred deliveries of fuel, saying it believes that it could be used by Palestinian militant group Hamas.

The war between Israel and Palestine's Hamas militant group entered its 20th day on Thursday. Over 7,500 people have died on both sides.

The Hamas-led Health Ministry said at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and over 17,000 wounded in the retaliatory airstrikes carried out by Israeli Defence Forces in Gaza since October 7. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and 1,650 wounded.

More than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, were killed in Israel after Hamas attacked Israeli towns from the Gaza border on October 7. In addition to that, at least 222 people including foreigners were believed captured by Hamas during the incursion and taken into Gaza. Four of them have been released since then.

Here's what all has happened in the war between Israel and Hamas:
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza has not only claimed lives but silenced many voices due to sporadic communication blackouts. However, brief flickers of Wi-Fi connectivity bring forth heart-wrenching tales from the war-torn region, as seen through the audio diaries of Tasneem Ismael Ahel, a 19-year-old girl from Gaza City. FILE - Palestinian women and children react following Israeli airstrikes targeting their neighbourhood in Gaza City, Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023. (AP Photo/Abed Khaled, File)(AP)

Tasneem's daily updates to The New York Times during mid-October unveil a chilling narrative of life under constant threat, as Israeli bombardments transfigure her hometown. Her audio messages, sometimes delayed due to connectivity issues, offer raw reflections on death, despair, and the shattered normalcy of daily life amidst war.

Its 9 p.m. and a half. There is only me and Reema, my cousin, and my little sister, Youmna. The others are all sleeping right now. We are awake just to guard them. Its our shift tonight. We are really tired; we are really very, very tired. We just want to sleep and we cant. We cant because we dont know where and what and when they will bomb missiles. So I record these voice [messages]. And I know maybe its not my last voice. Maybe its my last voice. Maybe it will reach you, maybe it doesnt.

The conflict escalated following a Hamas-led attack on October 7, which triggered a retaliatory bombing campaign by Israel. The repercussions have been devastating for Gazans, especially the youth, who find their dreams crumbling amid the ruins. With over 6,500 Palestinians reported dead by Gaza's Health Ministry, the narrative extends beyond mere statistics, encapsulating the relentless fear and dwindling hopes of individuals like Tasneem.

Despite being born under siege and witnessing her fifth war, Tasneem aspired for a future in dentistry and arts. However, the war has thwarted her educational pursuits as Al Azhar University, where she studied, fell victim to the bombings. Her longing for normalcy, for a peaceful sleep without the dread of sudden airstrikes, resonates through her audio diaries, painting a poignant picture of the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

I dont know why they bombed my favorite restaurants in Al-Rimal. They didnt just bomb my favorite restaurants; they take me from my best memories. They steal my night, my routine, my skin-care routine, my drawings, my paintings. Or even, just sitting down and writing some stories about me, writing plans for the future.

The ripple effects of the conflict extend far beyond Gaza, igniting a spectrum of reactions worldwide. From emotional turmoil within the Jewish and Palestinian diaspora in the U.S. to the polarized responses in Hollywood and the political realm, the Israel-Hamas conflict continues to evoke discussions and debates across various platforms.

Tasneem's narrative underscores the human aspect often overshadowed by geopolitics. Her audio diary, as detailed by the New York Times, serves as a stark reminder of the countless unheard stories waiting to pierce through the silence that intermittently engulfs the besieged enclave of Gaza. Through her, the world gets a glimpse into the harrowing reality faced by millions as the conflict rages on.

On a rare occasion, Tasneem did not send an audio message. She resorted, instead, to brief notes written in her native Arabic. 5:23 p.m.: We are under a fire belt attack right now. 5:23 p.m.: Strikes are coming one after the other. 5:24 p.m.: We still dont understand what is happening. 5:24 p.m.: Were currently on the second floor of the building. 5:24 p.m.: Its beyond horrifying.

(Select portions of this have been generated by AI tools)

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Hedge fund billionaire and Columbia University graduate Leon Cooperman said that he would suspend his donations to the college, over pro-Palestinian protests by university students and professors, unless he saw a change. Hedge fund billionaire and Columbia University graduate Leon Cooperman (File/Reuters)

80-year-old Cooperman said that he believed the students protesting against Israel have s**t for brains.

In an interview with Fox News, Polish-Jewish descendant Cooperman added, We have one reliable ally in the Middle East - thats Israel. We only have one democracy in the Middle East. Thats Israel. And we have one economy tolerant of different people - gays, lesbians, etc. And thats Israel.

It has been 20 days since Hamas entered Israel, levelling one of the biggest attacks on the country. Over 7,000 Palestinians and 1,400 Israelis have lost their lives since the beginning of the war, as per official data.

The New York-based Omega Advisors' CEO further said that he didn't know what the students were doing.

Cooperman said that he would stop donating to his alma mater unless he saw a change. Now, the real shame is Ive given Columbia, probably about $50 million over many years. Im going to suspend my giving. Ill give it to other organisations.

When the interviewer asked if he meant he would not donate any more money to Columbia, Cooperman, having a worth of about $2.8 billion, responded, Yeah, unless I see a change.

This comes as the Modern Arab Politics and Intellectual History professor at Columbia, Joseph Massad, called the Hamas' attack on Israel awesome. In an article published by Massad on The Electronic Intifada, he called the attack a stunning victory.

A petition, with over 60,000 signatures, sought Masaad's termination accusing him of condoning and supporting terrorism.

The petition said, Regardless of ones stance on the conflict, supporting and praising one of the worst acts of terrorism in history is never acceptable.

A letter supporting Massad, signed by thousands of school's alumni, staff and student body, has also been issued condemning the petition and it calls upon Columbia University's President Nemat Shafik to unequivocally guarantee his physical safety and his academic freedom.

Cooperman said that he asked the University to fire Massad. I told them that they should fire this professor that made the comments he made.

He added that while war was bad, supporting Hamas' actions was disgraceful.

I mean, war is hell. War is not good for anybody, but to praise what Hamas did is disgraceful, disgusting.

The university has cancelled the Columbia Giving Day saying, After careful consideration and consultation with University and alumni leadership, we decided that this is not the appropriate time to move forward with Columbia Giving Day. It is postponed for the time being, and a decision on rescheduling will be made in the near future.

Earlier this month, Shafik issued a statement asking the students to avoid any language that vilifies, threatens or stereotypes entire groups of people.

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With Mike Johnson, a Republican representative from Louisiana, an ally of Donald Trump who backed his claims about the 2020 election being stolen, a staunch Far-Right figure who celebrated the US Supreme Court verdict overturning Roe V Wade, and an evangelical Christian, elected as the new Speaker of the US House of the Representatives, the American legislature has entered unchartered territory. On his first full day on the job, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., makes a statement to reporters about the mass shooting in Maine, at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. He did not respond to questions. (AP)

ALSO READ- After 3 weeks US House gets a Speaker, Trump aide Mike Johnson secures majority GOP support

Johnson will now have to keep the Republicans united in the House and please his patron, Trump, while also addressing governance requirements which entails the House to pass relevant spending bills and collaborate with the Democratic administration or risk a a government shutdown. He will also have to navigate both issues of convergence between parties such as American support for Israel and divergences such as American support for Ukraine.

If Johnson sticks to his Far-Right inclinations, American polity is headed for a prolonged impasse and deepening of tensions between the legislature and the executive. If he displays an accommodative stance, which is unlikely, Johnson risks losing his already limited political capital and base at a time when even a single member of the House can seek to oust the Speaker. The fact that there is only a year to go for the presidential elections means that politically competitive instincts in the House are peaking on all sides of the aisle and the room for compromise is diminishing.

The backdrop

Johnsons election on Wednesday  220 members backed him while 209 opposed him in the House  came three weeks after Republican Far-Right members ousted Kevin McCarthy as Speaker for what they saw as too accommodative an approach towards the Democratic administration.

Since then, despite multiple rounds of voting, the Republicans had failed to elect a Speaker, either because moderates rejected far-Right candidates (such as Jim Jordan, the co-founder of the House Freedom Caucus) or because the Far-Right rejected more moderate candidates (such as Steven Scalise and Tom Emmer).

But the prolonged delay in electing a Speaker was denting Republican credibility and had led to a sense of fatigue among the members, besides giving Democrats an opportunity to showcase the GOP as a force in disarray and incapable of governing. The mood on Capitol Hill was one of frustration, with the Republicans eventually consolidating behind Johnson and giving the Far-Right a major triumph.

The man and his politics

Johnson, 51, is a generally low-key figure in the Republican Party, who is most prominent for his extreme positions on a range of political and cultural positions that have divided America.

He was among the key figures in the House backing Trumps claims on the 2020 elections and led an effort to the block the certification of the results. He opposed investigating the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol. He opposes same sex relationships and marriages and has pushed policies to restrict pedagogy around sexuality for children in federally funded institutions. He was the chairman of the arch-conservative Republican Study Committee.

Johnson and his wife are devout Christians. He has pushed many bills restricting abortion access nationally and welcomed the Roe v Wade verdict that ended national protection to abortion. And he is close to the oil and gas lobby, putting him firmly against climate action advocates.

The challenges

Johnson has to now both deal with an administration request for $105 billion for national security funding especially for Ukraine and Israel, and deal with the prospects of a federal government shutdown from November 17 unless the House passes the relevant appropriations bills.

McCarthy had enabled the passage of a continuing resolution that allowed the government to stay open, but this is what triggered the rebellion from the far-Right of his own party. Trump, who is exercising his power and influence in shaping the House dynamics, is seen as pushing for a shutdown and believes this will be blamed on his arch rival, President Joe Biden. Trump called Johnson a fantastic gentleman who will do a great job on Wednesday.

Soon after his victory, Johnson said that sending aid to Israel, fixing the southern border, and reining in federal spending as his top priorities. In a statement on Wednesday, Biden congratulated Johnson and said he would work in good faith with the Speaker. We need to move swiftly to address our national security needs and to avoid a shutdown in 22 days. Even though we have real disagreements about important issues, there should be mutual effort to find common ground wherever we can.

Finding that common ground is going to be exceedingly hard, for if Donald Trumps rise represented the elevation of American Far-Right in the executive branch, Mike Johnsons rise represents the elevation of the uncompromising and extreme American Far-Right in the legislative branch. Biden, who is battling multiple external and internal crises, will have to deal with a new interlocutor and a new, more challenging situation than that existed when McCarthy was speaker. All signs point to continued dysfunctionality and disruption in the governance matrix of the US.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Prashant Jha Prashant Jha is the Washington DC-based US correspondent of Hindustan Times. He is also the editor of HT Premium. Jha has earlier served as editor-views and national political editor/bureau chief of the paper. He is the author of How the BJP Wins: Inside India's Greatest Election Machine and Battles of the New Republic: A Contemporary History of Nepal. ...view detail
Pakistan on Thursday gave a last warning to all immigrants in the country illegally, including hundreds of thousands of Afghan nationals, to leave voluntarily before a Nov. 1 deadline, the country's caretaker interior minister said on Thursday. Pakistan announced the move in October. It says it took the decision after Afghan nationals were found to be involved in crimes, smuggling and attacks against government.(AFP File)

Interim Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti told a news conference in Islamabad that Pakistan was determined to go ahead with a plan to remove all undocumented immigrants after Nov. 1.

Pakistan announced the move in October. It says it took the decision after Afghan nationals were found to be involved in crimes, smuggling and attacks against government and the army, including 14 out of 24 suicide bombings this year.

"All the illegal immigrants have been identified. The state has a complete data," said Bugti. "I want to appeal one more time that all the illegal immigrants should leave voluntarily by the deadline."

Bugti warned law enforcement agencies will start an operation to remove people after the expiry of the deadline.

READ | Leave or: Pakistan to 'illegal' immigrants after suicide bombings

He also said action would be taken against anyone found involved in facilitating or hiding the immigrants.

The immigrants, mostly Afghans, many of whom have lived in Pakistan for years, will be processed at temporary centres being set up by the government.

Those leaving voluntarily will be helped to leave Pakistan, such as preparation of their documents, permission to exchange currency and transportation.

READ | Unexpected objector to Pakistans deportation of Afghans

Pakistan has received the largest influx of Afghan refugees since the Soviet invasion of Kabul in 1979.

Hundreds of thousands of Afghans moved to Pakistan to escape war and conflicts, and many are registered as refugees with the government and U.N. agencies.

The expulsion plan marks a new low in relations between the South Asian neighbours after border clashes in recent months.

Islamabad alleges that the militants use Afghan soil to train fighters and plan attacks inside Pakistan, a charge Kabul denies, saying Pakistani security is a domestic issue.
Taking into account the fact of ethnic cleansing, starving people, in fact, forced displacement, very great efforts should be made so that the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh would have the desire to return there, if the possibility of this realistically exists.

October 26, 2023, 09:18 Great efforts should be made so that the Armenians of Karabakh want to return there PM

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan stated this in an interview with Wall Street Journal reporter Yaroslav Trofimov.

In response to the question about the future of 100,000 Armenians who had to leave Nagorno-Karabakh, Nikol Pashinyan answered: There is a short-term future, there is a medium-term future and there is a long-term future. In the short term, our task is to meet the most urgent needs of our compatriots who have become refugees. In the medium term we want them to have decent opportunities for living. Our approach is that if they do not have the opportunity or desire to return to Nagorno-Karabakh, we should do everything for them to stay, live, and create in the Republic of Armenia.

The Prime Minister noted: Their future largely depends on what proposal Azerbaijan will make to them, or what position it will take, or what conditions Azerbaijan will create. And in this regard, will the international community encourage it and what will it support? Taking into account the fact of ethnic cleansing, starving people, in fact, forced displacement, very great efforts should be made so that the Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh would have the desire to return there, if the possibility of this realistically exists. There are questions that can even reach a dozen. The first is how realistically this possibility exists, and if it exists, to what extent people will trust this possibility? These are very serious and deep issues.
In early 2023, Prince Harry's memoir, "Spare," shed new light on the ongoing tensions within the royal family. Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, made headlines back in 2020 when they stepped away from their royal duties in pursuit of a more private life in the United States. However, the revelations in Harry's memoir have raised more questions than answers about the rift between him and his family. Britain's Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, participates in The Archewell Foundation Parents' Summit "Mental Wellness in the Digital Age" as part of Project Healthy Minds' World Mental Health Day Festival on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023, in New York. (AP/PTI)(AP10_11_2023_000009B)(AP)

The memoir provided a candid look into Harry's upbringing, with jaw-dropping revelations, including an alleged physical altercation between him and his brother, Prince William. In a subsequent interview, Harry hinted that the contents of the book were just the tip of the iceberg, expressing concerns that divulging too much could irreparably damage his relationship with his father, Prince Charles, and his brother, Prince William.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Prince Harry revealed, "There are some things that have happened, especially between me and my brother, and to some extent between me and my father, that I just don't want the world to know because I don't think they would ever forgive me."

This cryptic statement has left the public speculating about the extent of the unresolved issues between Harry and his family. While the strained relationship between Harry and William is no secret, it appears that there are deeper, undisclosed struggles that have transpired behind closed doors.

Despite the ongoing tensions, Prince Harry has expressed a desire to mend his fractured relationships with his father and brother. He has attended public events to support his father, Prince Charles, and Charles has continued to send warm wishes to Harry, Meghan, and their children in his public speeches.

However, reconciliation remains elusive, as Prince William and Prince Charles are seemingly unwilling to initiate the first steps towards repairing their bonds with Harry. It may take years before the trio can reestablish normal communication, let alone spend quality time together as a family.
The youngest-ever crew of Chinese astronauts departed for China's space station on Thursday, paving the way for a new generation of "taikonauts" to advance the country's space ambitions in the future. A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft and a crew of three astronauts.(AFP)

The spacecraft Shenzhou-17, or "Divine Vessel", and its three passengers lifted off atop a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China.

Leading the six-month mission was former air force pilot Tang Hongbo, 48, who was on the first crewed mission to the space station in 2021.

His return to the orbiting outpost Tiangong, or "Celestial Palace" in Chinese, also set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflight missions by taikonauts - coined from the Chinese word for space - suggesting a faster rotation of taikonauts in coming years.

Tang, from China's second batch of astronauts in 2010, had to wait more than a decade before he was picked for his inaugural spaceflight in 2021.

By contrast, his fellow Shenzhou-17 crew members Tang Shengjie, 33, and Jiang Xinlin, 35, both travelling to space for the first time, joined China's third batch of astronauts in September 2020.

China has already kickstarted the selection process for the fourth batch of astronauts, seeking candidates with doctoral degrees in disciplines from biology, physics and chemistry to biomedical engineering and astronomy.

It is also opening the process to applicants from Hong Kong and Macau for the first time.

The first and second batches of astronauts were all former air force pilots, like Tang, who joined the People's Liberation Army in 1995 at age 20.

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Canada on Thursday welcomed New Delhi's decision to resume some visa-related services saying the move was a good sign after an anxious time for Canadians. Immigration minister Marc Miller, while welcoming the decision, said the suspension of visa services "should never have happened". Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had accused Indian officials of being behind Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder. (AP)

India had suspended visa services days after Canada accused the country's officials of conspiring to murder Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

"Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place," he was quoted as saying by CTV News.

He added that the "really concerning diplomatic situation" had created fear in a lot of communities.

Canada's emergency preparedness minister Harjit Sajjan welcomed the move but said he wouldn't speculate on the message India was sending by resuming these services.

Also read: Talks at multiple levels preceded partial resumption of visa services in Canada

India's high commission in Canada said on Wednesday that some types of visa applications for Canadians would be processed by the Indian officials.

Nijjar, a designated terrorist, was murdered on June 18 in British Columbia. Last month, after the G-20 summit, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of having involvement in his murder. India dismissed the allegations as "absurd" and "motivated".

Sajjan today said Ottawa was still seeking India's help in the murder.

New Delhi has resumed services like entry visas, business visas, medical visas and conference visas.

India resumed visa services after Canadian authorities showed greater responsiveness to New Delhis concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic premises and personnel, an official told HT. This came after discussions at multiple levels that went on for 10 days.

Taking a strong posture against Trudeau's allegations, India had accused Canadian diplomats of interference in its internal matters and asked it withdraw 41 of its diplomats to achieve parity in numbers. Last week, Canada pulled out 41 of its diplomats in India.

The United States and Britain backed Canada on the withdrawal of diplomats.

With inputs from PTI

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A viral video showsAl Jazeera Arabic's bureau head in Gaza, Wael Al-Dahdouh, condemning an attack that killed his two children and wife. Those are children's killers. No more, no less, he says in the video. A viral video shows Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau head in Gaza, Wael Al-Dahdouh, condemning an attack that killed his two children and wife (@jacksonhinklle/X)

Women and children were taking shelter in what the 'Israeli military' said was a safe area, he adds. But death came after them. The air strikes followed them.

Another tragic video shows the moment Wael found out that they were killed in the air raid as he reported on the Gaza war. He entered a hospital to see the bodies of family members in the morgue. A video shows the journalist at the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Hospital in Deir al-Balah in front of the body of his son Mahmoud, 15. Mahmoud reportedly wanted to become a journalist.

This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians, Wael told Al Jazeera. I was just reporting from Yarmouk about such an attack, and the Israeli raids have targeted many areas, including Nuseirat.

A video that previously surfaced shows Waels sons giving the world

a picture of killing and destruction in Gaza.

Earlier in October, a horrific blast at a hospital in Gaza reportedly claimed the lives ofmore than 500 people. The Ministry of Health in Gaza held a press conference after the blast at Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital. They stood among corpses and remains of the victims of the attack.

We were performing surgery at the Baptist hospital when a strong explosion occurred and the ceiling fell on the operating roomThis is a massacre, Ghassan Abu Sitta, a doctor associated with Doctors Without Borders, said during the briefing, according to an Anadolu correspondent.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) later shared a recording of an alleged conversation between Hamas operators about the recent hospital bombing in Gaza, where they apparently admitted that the attack was not launched by Israel. According to Palestinian officials. As Israeli airstrikes were blamed, the IDF vehemently denied the allegations.
Britain will set up the world's first artificial intelligence safety institute, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Thursday, ahead of a global summit next week that he has convened to examine the risks of the technology. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivers a speech on AI at Royal Society, Carlton House Terrace. (Reuters)

The institute will "examine, evaluate and test new types of AI so that we understand what each new model is capable of, exploring all the risks from social harms like bias and misinformation through to the most extreme risks," he said.

Britain is bringing together AI companies, political leaders and experts at Bletchley Park on Nov. 1-2 to discuss what some see as an existential danger posed by AI, with an aim of building an international consensus on its safe development.

Sunak wants Britain to be a global leader in AI safety, carving out a role after Brexit between the competing economic blocs of the United States, China and the European Union.

Around 100 participants will discuss subjects including the unpredictable advances of AI and the potential for humans to lose control of it, according to the agenda.

Sunak said that while AI will boost economic growth, advance human capability and solve problems once thought beyond us, it also brings new dangers and new fears.

"The responsible thing for me to do is to address those fears head on, giving you the peace of mind that we will keep you safe, while making sure you and your children have all the opportunities for a better future that AI can bring," he said.

The UK government has published a report on "frontier" AI, the cutting-edge general-purpose models that the summit will focus on.

The report will inform discussions about risks such as societal harms, misuse and loss of control, the government said.

US Vice President Kamala Harris and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis are on the guest list next week.

China is expected to attend, deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said on Thursday, while European Commission Vice President Vera Jourova has received an invitation.

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) economies, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, the United States and the European Union, in May called for adoption of standards to create trustworthy AI and to set up a ministerial forum dubbed the Hiroshima AI process. (Reporting by Paul Sandle; Editing by Mike Harrison and William Schomberg)
Iran's Foreign Minster Hossein Amirabdollahian warned at the United Nations on Thursday that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesn't end then the United States will "not be spared from this fire." Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on the town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (AP Photo/Mohammed Dahman)(AP)

"I say frankly to the American statesmen, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome (an)expansion of the war in the region. But if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire," he told a meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the Middle East.

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, which rules Gaza, in retaliation for an Oct. 7 attack that killed 1,400 people and saw hundreds taken hostage. Israel has struck Gaza from the air, imposed a siege and is preparing a ground invasion. Palestinian authorities say more than 7,000 have been killed.

Hamas has told Iran that it was ready to release civilian hostages, adding that the world should push for the release of 6,000 Palestinians in Israeli prisons, Amirabdollahian said.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey. Naturally, the release of the 6,000 Palestinian prisoners is another necessity and responsibility of the global community," he said.

(Reporting by Michelle Nichols and Parisa Hafezi; editing by Susan Heavey and Chizu Nomiyama)
A shooter gunned down at least 16 people in separate massacresacross Lewiston, Maine, Wednesday night, October 25. Another 50 or more people are believed to have been injured at multiple locations, including a bowling alley, CNN reported. A possible suspect has been identified as 40-year-old Robert Card, according to CentralMaine.com.. Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released photos of the alleged suspect carrying a gun, seeking help to identify him (Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office/Facebook)

Maine State Police took to Facebook to urge residents to protect themselves. ALERT: There is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston. Law enforcement is asking people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911, the post says.

Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released photos of the alleged suspect carrying a gun, seeking help to identify him. Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large, it wrote on Facebook.

It is also believed that the gunman may have opened fire at a third location, according to local reports. The Sun Journal reported that emergency personnel were called to separate shootings at a bowling alley, a restaurant and a Walmart distribution centre. Surrounding towns were called in to provide mutual aid, including New Hampshire.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills wrote in a post on X, I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.

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Maine police along with the FBI are on the lookout for Maine shooter, identified as Robert Card who shot dead 22 people at the bowling alley and a bar. He had recently been admitted to a mental health facility. The police statement mentions that Card claimed he heard voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at a military training base in Maine. Earlier this year few Republican members of Congress had worn controversial new pins on their lapels in the shape of miniature AR-15 rifles(X)

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office has released images of the suspect, who was spotted with a semi-automatic rifle, possibly the AR-15. This rifle is infamously known for its use in various mass shootings across the United States, due to its lightweight design and ease of use.

Originating from the military design of the M16 rifle, the AR-15 has become a civilian variant known for its high velocity, accuracy, and the capability of carrying detachable magazines with a significant number of rounds. Its design allows for rapid firing, a feature that unfortunately makes it a weapon of choice in mass shootings. Over the years, the AR-15 has become emblematic of the fierce debate over gun control in the United States.

This tragic event brings forth once again the haunting reality of gun violence and the ease with which lethal firearms can be used to perpetrate horrifying acts of violence. The aftermath of the Lewiston shooting leaves a community in mourning and a nation grappling with the call for more stringent gun control measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.

AR-15 images during the Maine shooting has brought back several dark images of Gun violence in America and also reignited the call for gun control.

After the shooting several Democrats are calling out the Republicans for wearing the AR-15 pins as a symbol to support gun culture in the country. Earlier this year few Republican members of Congress had worn controversial new pins on their lapels in the shape of miniature AR-15 rifles. They claimed it to be symbols of their commitment to the Second Amendment and Americans right to bear arms.

Many on social media are calling out how it's so easy to buy an AR-15, a semi-automatic weapon which accepts high-capacity magazines.

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The US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an alert warning of the potential accumulation of snow ranging from 8 inches to 2 feet, depending on the affected areas. The US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an alert warning of the potential accumulation of snow ranging from 8 inches to 2 feet, depending on the affected areas.(Elias Funez/The Union via AP)

Snowstorm Alert in the US: Affected States

The following states are forecasted to be affected by the drop in temperatures and potential snowfall:

Washington

Montana

North Dakota

Northwest Wyoming

Northern Idaho

According to the NWS forecasts, the mountains in Montana will see snow accumulation of up to 18 inches, while higher elevations like the northern Rocky Mountains will see the same up to 2 feet.

Snowstorm Alert in the US: Timings and Duration Details

The storm will be arriving in waves, stated the NWS forecast.

The first rains were experienced since Tuesday in low elevations in Washington, while the first fall of snow had already begun in the mountainous areas, and will continue to spread through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and North Dakota throughout the week, until Friday morning, October 27.

"Multiple waves of heavy snowfall will impact Montana & North Dakota tonight through Friday morning. More than 8 [inches] of snow is forecast for much of this area, with [1 to 2 feet] possible in higher terrain. Travel will become hazardous due to snow-covered or icy roads & poor visibility, warned the National Weather Service.

As per the statements made by meteorologist Matt Ludwig, reported by NBC, central Montana will be bearing the brunt of the storm, so the accumulation of snow in that area will be greater.

Snowstorm Alert in the US: Track the storm in real-time

Windy has shared an interactive map with the path of the snowstorm in real-time.

For more updates on the snowstorm, keep checking the NWS social media channels and official website.

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President Joe Biden honoured Two Indian-American scientists  Dr Ashok Gadgil and Dr Subra Suresh  with the National Medals in the fields of science and technology. While Gadgil was conferred the National Medal for Technology and Innovation, Suresh won the National Medal of Science. Two Indian-American scientists  Dr Ashok Gadgil (L) and Dr Subra Suresh (R) won the National Medals in the fields of science and technology (University of California, Berkeley, MIT Department of Materials Science and Engineering)

These medalists have made discoveries that enable lifesaving medical treatments, help fight the opioid epidemic, improve food security, advance accessibility, protect our democracy, and much more. Their accomplishments advance American leadership in science, technology, and innovation, and their work inspires the next generation of American minds, the White House said in a statement.

Who is Dr Ashok Gadgil?

Ashok Gadgil, who was born in Mumbai on November 15, 1950, graduated in Physics from the University of Mumbai. He completed his postgraduate studies at the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, and went on to earn an MSc and PhD in physics from the University of California, Berkeley. He works as a professor at the University of California, Berkeley and a senior scientist of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory at present.

According to the website of Gadgil Lab for Energy and Water Research, At UC Berkeley, Dr. Gadgil is a Distinguished Chair Professor of Safe Water and Sanitation in CEE. He is the PI and Faculty Director of Development Impact Lab (DIL.berkeley.edu) and of the Clean Energy Research Center for Water Energy Technologies (CERC-WET.berkeley.edu). At LBNL Dr. Gadgil is a Senior Faculty Scientist in the Energy Technologies Area.

His expertise ranges from computational fluid dynamics of indoor air and pollutant flows, simulation of entry and transport of indoor radon, building energy efficiency, and methods to treat drinking water to make it potable. He has more than 105 refereed archival journal papers, 150 conference papers, and several patents, it adds.

Who is Dr Subra Suresh?

Subra Suresh is a bioengineer, materials scientist, and academic. He is a Professor Emeritus and former dean of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Suresh was born in Mumbai and completed a BTech degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. He went on to receive a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Iowa State University and a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

According to the MIT website, Professor Subra Sureshs research is in the following areas: nanomechanics of biological cells and molecules, and human disease states; structure-mechanical property-disease connections in the context of P. falciparum malaria, hereditary blood cell disorders and cancer; computational simulations of cellular and molecular deformation and shape thermodynamics; high force optical tweezers studies of biological cells and human disease states; nanostructured materials; and nanoindentation and microindentation.

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The Armenian government has granted a Temporary Protected Status to the forcibly displaced persons of Nagorno-Karabakh.

October 26, 2023, 13:31 Forcibly displaced from Karabakh to be given refugee status

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: During the Cabinet meeting Thursday, the government of Armenia approved the description of the identity document of the person forcibly displaced from Nagorno-Karabakh under temporary protection, as well as the refugee who received temporary protection and the procedure for its issuance.

Minister of Justice Grigor Minasyan, presenting the respective draft decision, noted the persons who will be taken under temporary protection by the Armenian government's decision. Accordingly, they are persons who are registered in the population register of Nagorno-Karabakh, persons residing in the territory of Armenia or outside Armenia, whose last registered address was in Nagorno-Karabakh, and the 3rd group are persons who were not registered in the population register of Nagorno-Karabakh, but lived in Nagorno-Karabakh and were registered by the Migration and Citizenship Service of Armenia after September 19.

Grigor Minasyan emphasized that persons taken under temporary protection become refugees by force of law and enjoy the rights provided for refugees by law and international conventions, including the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees.
At least 22 people were killed and over 50 were injured in separate incidents of mass shootings in US' Maine's Lewiston city on Wednesday evening, according to city officials. The alleged accused, Robert Card has been considered as "armed and dangerous" person by the police.(X)

City Councilor Robert McCarthy told CNN that the death toll has reached to 22 in the shooting at a bowling alley, a local bar and a Walmart distribution centre in the city.

Follow LIVE Updates here

"My understanding is that they have a tentative identification... of the shooter at the bowling alley, confirmed 22 dead, many, many more injured," McCarthy said.

Local police of Lewiston have released a picture of a man, identified as a person of interest in the massacre. The alleged accused, Robert Card, has been considered an "armed and dangerous" person by the police.

"Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening. The suspect, Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts," the police notification read.

According to law enforcement, Card, 40, is a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve who recently reported mental health issues including hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco. He was also reported to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks during Summer 2023 and subsequently released.

According to a report by Macra, Card has a history of arrests for domestic violence and other crimes.

Read here: Maine shooting: Gunman's AR-15 rifle images reignite gun control debate

Earlier, the police released two photographs of a man wielding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle on Facebook Wednesday evening. The pictures showed a bearded man in a brown hoodie and jeans, holding the weapon in the firing position.

Police have asked the locals in Lewiston to stay inside their homes. "There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations," Maine State Police said on X (formerly Twitter).

The Lewiston police said they were dealing with an active shooter situation at two businesses.

US President Joe Biden was briefed on the latest updates on the mass shootings in Lewiston. The White House said that Biden spoke to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting and offered full federal support in the wake of the horrific attack.

Read here: Gunman shoots dead at least 22 people, injures dozens across multiple locations in Maine; possible suspect identified

The mass shooting incident at Lewiston was reported after shots were fired at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston on Wednesday.

(With inputs from agencies)

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At least 18 people have been killed in multiple shootings in Maine's Lewiston city on Wednesday, CNN reported. The shooter remains at large. A man identified as a suspect by police points what appears to be a semiautomatic rifle in Lewiston, Maine on October 25.(Reuters)

Over 13 people are reported injured. However, its unclear how many are injured due to gunfire. Follow Maine shooting LIVE updates here.

The Lewiston Police Department has identified 40-year-old Robert Card as a person of interest in connection with the shootings. The police warned that Card should be considered armed and dangerous.

According to ABC News, the shooting spree took place at a bowling alley, a local bar and a Walmart distribution center.

Two law officials, on condition of anonymity, told the Associated Press that investigators were still processing the crime scenes and working to gather evidence.

Earlier today, the Lewiston Police said that it was investigating at least two active shooter events in the city. It posted two photographs of a suspect pointing what appeared to be a semiautomatic rifle, according to Reuters.

"We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large," the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office said in a statement on Facebook.

The Maine state police also warned about an active shooter on its social media platform X.

"We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations," it said.

The White House in a statement said the President Joe Biden made calls to Maine Governor Janet Mills, two senators and a local congressman to offer federal support.

"The president spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack, it said.

Lewiston Mayor Carl Sheline said he is heartbroken for our city and our people and urged residents to follow recommended guidelines.

"Lewiston is known for our strength and grit and we will need both in the days to come," Sheline told CNN.

The shooting is the deadliest mass shooting in the United States since at least May 2022, when a gunman opened fire at an elementary school in Texas' Uvalde, Texas, killing 19 children and two teachers, according to Reuters, which cited data from the Gun Violence Archive.

The number of US shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. At least 647 such incidents were reported in 2022, the data from the archive showed.

(Inputs from agencies)

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Among those abducted by Hamas terrorists from Israel isGuy Illouz, a promising musician who was snatched from the Nova Music Festival. The Facebook page Bring Them Home Now, dedicated to keeping the stories of the hostages alive, has narrated how Guys music has come to silence after his abduction. An aerial view shows the burnt cars of festival-goers at the site of an attack on the Nova Festival by Hamas gunmen from Gaza, near Israel's border with the Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, October 12, 2023 (REUTERS/Ilan Rosenberg)

Guy reportedly tried to escape the festival during the attack. His friend had been shot.

Who is Guy Illouz?

Guy was a young and promising musician who, along with his friends, built a music studio in a shelter, according to the Facebook post. Whenever war broke out, they would evacuate the shelter and then rebuild the studio. Music is the core of Guy's being  he writes songs, plays the guitar, and works as a sound engineer for performances by Shalom Hanoch and 'HaYehudim, the page says.

Two hostages released by Hamas

Meanwhile,Hamas has said on its Telegram channel that it has released two of his hostages after negotiations with Qatar and Egypt. The hostages have been identified as Israeli citizens Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. Sources told CNBC that they were released to the Red Cross. Hamas said it released the hostages for compelling humanitarian reasons.

Abu Ubaiba, a military spokesman from Al-Qassam Brigades that operates in the West Bank, said that Hamas decided to release the women even though Israel has refused to stop its airstrikes. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons despite the occupation committing more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process, the spokesman said on Telegram.

Last week, Hamas released American mother-and-daughter Judith Tai Raanan and Natalie Raanan. Yitzhak and Lifshitz are the latest hostages to be released by the terrorist group.

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A 64-year-old Taiwanese woman, who had been struggling to sleep for several nights complaining of hearing unusual sounds in her left ear, was in shock when doctors discovered a small spider crawling inside her ear. It was when the woman visited a clinic nearby that the cause of the problem was diagnosed. Luckily, there was no damage to her eardrum. Spider seen crawling inside woman's ear.(X/NEJM)

The doctors used a tube to suction out the spider and its exoskeleton. "She didn't feel pain because the spider was very small. It's just about 2 to 3 millimeters," Dr. Tengchin Wang, the director of the otolaryngology department at Tainan Municipal Hospital was quoted by NBC News.

Wang further said that though he had seen ants, moths, cockroaches, and mosquitoes inside people's ears before, this case was a novelty since the insect was molted inside the woman's ear canal. The doctors also published a case report detailing the woman's experience in the New England Journal of Medicine.

A video of the same was also shared on X. "A woman with hypertension presented to the clinic with a 4-day history of abnormal sounds in her ear. On examination, a small spider was seen moving within the external auditory canal of the left ear. The molted exoskeleton of the spider was also present, " the post caption read.

Jerry Rovner, an emeritus biology professor at Ohio University, proposed that the spider might have sought refuge inside the woman's ear for protection and safety. ''Many hunting spiders (i.e., those that do not live in prey-capture webs) seek a sheltered location for the purpose of molting, as they cannot defend themselves from predators during that process,'' he said.



Earlier this year, a woman experiencing tinnitus and ear pain was found to have a spider in her ear during an endoscopy. The doctor confirmed that the spider was not venomous, and the woman only endured minor damage to her ear canal.

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The U.S. and Russia offered their war resolutions for the worsening Israel-Hamas conflict.

Although the two countries are on bad terms, both of them provided their resolution plans to the United Nations.

But, the question is, which will the UN choose? Is it Russia's ceasefire suggestion or the humanitarian pause that the United States suggested?

US, Russia Offer Israel-Hamas War Resolution To UN

According to Reuters' latest report, the U.S. and Russia both want to help Palestinian civilians who are caught up in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in the Gaza Strip.

To do this, both of these super countries want the UN Security Council to address water, food, electricity, and medical supply shortages.

However, the two nations have their own war resolution suggestions; Russia wants to have a humanitarian ceasefire, while the United States calls for a humanitarian pause so that aid can enter the Gaza Strip.

To give you an idea, a humanitarian pause is less formal and shorter compared to a ceasefire. Due to this fact, the Russian government announced on Tuesday, Oct. 24, that it can't support the suggestion of the U.S.

The U.S. government's proposal already has an initial draft, which was staunchly pro-Israel, to the 15-member council. On the other hand, the ceasefire suggestion of Russia was supported by Arab states.

As of writing, it is unclear when the two nations' Israel-Hamas war resolutions will be put to a vote. Once this happens, the UN Security Council will pick the resolution that will receive at least nine votes.

There should also be no vetoes by France, Britain, the United States, China, or Russia if the chosen resolution is to be adopted.

Read Also: Israel-Hamas Conflict: At Least 2,000 Kids Reportedly Killed in Gaza in Recent Weeks

US Adjusted Israel-Hamas War Resolution Draft

Fox News reported that Washington adjusted its Israel-Hamas war because of the Russian government's demands. Specifically, the U.S. didn't mention Iran in its resolution draft.

Before this adjustment, the original draft suggested that Iran should stop funding terror groups.

"Iran must cease the export of all arms and related materiel to armed militias and terrorist groups threatening peace and security across the region, including Hamas," said the U.S. government in its original draft.

But, after Russia asked the U.S. to change this, the Israel-Hamas war resolution of Washington no longer mentions anything about Iran. You can click this link to learn more about this draft change.

Related Article: [VIDEO] Unseen Actual Hamas Attack in Israel Showing Harrowing Killings, Revealed To Counter Denials

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United States President Joe Biden will not file for New Hampshire's Democratic primary ballot in order to comply with the Democratic National Committee's (DNC) delegate selection rules.

The decision was announced to the state party by the Democratic president's campaign manager in a letter. South Carolina, not New Hampshire, will be the first state to hold an approved Democratic primary under a Biden-backed plan that the DNC approved earlier this year.

Joe Biden on New Hampshire Primary Ballot

New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan already said that his state will hold the first-in-the-nation primary even though a date has not yet been set. This would make it non-compliant with the new DNC calendar. It could cost the state's Democrats party delegates to the national convention next summer.

In a letter to New Hampshire Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley, campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said that Biden is also looking to participate in the Granite State primary. However, she noted that he must first comply with national party rules, as per CNN.

If Biden decides to campaign in such an early contest in New Hampshire or have his name on the ballot, it would be a violation. In a statement, Chavez Rodriguez said that the Democratic president is incredibly grateful for the support that Granite Staters have shown for him both as a candidate for office and as the leader of the nation.

On Tuesday, Buckley responded by saying that the reality is that Biden will win the New Hampshire First-in-the-Nation Primary scheduled for January. He added that the president will then win renomination in Chicago and will be re-elected next November. Buckley said that New Hampshire voters know and trust the president.

New Hampshire's presidential candidate filing deadline is on Friday and Republican presidential contenders have been traveling to the State Capitol to file in person and submit the required $1,000 filing fee.

There are many potential Biden primary challengers, including Minnesota Rep. Dean Phillips, who still has time to file their candidacies. Chavez Rodriguez said that the president was looking forward to having his name on New Hampshire's general election ballot as the nominee of the Democratic Party after officially securing the nomination at the 2024 Democratic National Convention, according to CBS News.

Read Also: Readout of Biden's Oval Office Address on the Ongoing Wars in Ukraine and Israel

Changing the Calendar

On the other hand, Republicans are not making any major changes to their schedule as opposed to what the Democratic Party is doing. The new calendar will have New Hampshire and Nevada hold primaries three days later than before and Iowa will entirely lose its early state position.

President Biden and supporters of the new calendar have argued that the new change will empower minority voters. These are people who Democrats have long relied on but have at times taken for granted.

Top Democrats in the Granite State are expected to lead a write-in campaign for the president in the primary. However, the president's decision to skip putting his name on the primary ballot could lead to a protest vote in the state.

Despite Biden being the commanding front-runner for his party's nomination, polls suggest that he has faced plenty of concerns from colleagues over his age and physical and mental condition, said Fox News.

Related Article: House Majority Whip Tom Emmer Wins Speaker Nomination, Drops Bid Shortly After

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Recently released 911 calls reveal a Secret Service agent in a state of panic as they inform a dispatcher about the unfortunate incident involving the Obama family's chef.

The chef had tragically drowned and was still unaccounted for after falling off his paddleboard near the former president's Martha's Vineyard residence, as per New York Post.

Obama's Chef's Mysterious Drowning

Details surrounding the tragic death of former White House sous chef Tafari Campbell have resurfaced, challenging the official narrative of an accidental drowning.

As various agencies in and around Obama's Martha's Vineyard estate attempted to keep the lid on the case, truth seekers, led by Fox News host Jesse Watters and Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton, took matters into their own hands to reveal the hidden truth behind the incident.

On July 23, Tafari Campbell was involved in a paddleboarding accident near the Obama residence. Astonishingly, the Massachusetts State Police responded to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, providing some redacted information that raised questions about the incident.

According to the released report, Barack Obama was on the scene shortly after Campbell went missing. An unnamed female staffer attempted to save Campbell when he fell off his board, but tragically, he disappeared into the murky waters.

Secret Service had surveillance footage of Campbell moments before entering the water, raising suspicions. Tom Fitton delved deeper into the case, revealing that Barack Obama was present during a witness interview in the death investigation of his chef.

The redacted records indicated Obama's arrival at the emergency response scene via motorcade, where a female witness was later interviewed in the Obama residence. Although the identity of the female staffer remained undisclosed, the records described Campbell's swimming ability as subpar, with family members stating that he was "not a great swimmer."

The female eyewitness reported seeing Campbell fall off his paddleboard, panic, and disappear underwater quickly. A harrowing and tragic event unfolded within minutes, prompting the Secret Service detail to contact 911 and initiate a rescue effort.

However, Campbell's body was found separate from his clothing, raising further questions about the incident. As noted by legal experts, the lack of transparency and information from authorities gave rise to conspiracy theories, according to BizPac Review.

Read Also: Israel-Hamas Conflict: At Least 2,000 Kids Reportedly Killed in Gaza in Recent Weeks

Tafari Campbell's Death

Robert Bertsche, general counsel of the New England Newspaper and Press Association, emphasized the importance of government transparency, stating, "When the government keeps secrets, the void inevitably gets filled with conspiracy theories, and that leads to suspicion and distrust of the government."

As the case progressed, the Massachusetts State Police acknowledged the surveillance footage's existence and mentioned ongoing records reviews. The slow release of information fueled skepticism about the official report.

Audio recordings from the 911 call center on the night of July 23 were shared, revealing the initial chaos and efforts to rescue Campbell. These recordings indicated the involvement of the Secret Service, staff, and others on-site trying to save the chef who had fallen into the water.

With the case officially closed and authorities reluctant to share critical information, questions remained about how a capable swimmer like Campbell could have drowned in shallow water. Revealed that Campbell's paddleboarding companion was a young woman employed in the Obama household, which adds an additional element of intrigue to the story.

Despite repeated requests for information, officials refused to release critical findings, such as whether Campbell suffered a medical episode or was under the influence of substances. State police also warned other law enforcement agencies against releasing information.

Conspiracy theorists speculated about the potential involvement of Barack Obama in the alleged cover-up. Judicial Watch's Tom Fitton raised questions about the unidentified witness paddleboarding with Campbell, emphasizing the need for transparency.

The secrecy surrounding the case and the reluctance to disclose crucial information have only fueled mistrust and suspicions. Experts argue that transparency is essential for maintaining public trust and upholding the principles of democracy.

Without clear communication, the void is filled with rumors and speculation, ultimately harming law enforcement and the public. As the mystery of Tafari Campbell's death lingers, the call for transparency and accountability in handling such cases grows louder.

Only through transparency can public trust be restored and the truth behind this tragic incident be fully uncovered, Mail Online reported.

Related Article: [VIDEO] Unseen Actual Hamas Attack in Israel Showing Harrowing Killings, Revealed To Counter Denials

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The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have issued a warning to the nation's healthcare workforce about the risk of a mental health crisis.

New research from the government uses national survey data from 2018 to 2022 and finds that by 2022, almost half of health professionals reported feeling burnt out. The number of medical workers who reported being harassed on the job also increased dramatically.

Worsening Already Tough Working Conditions

According to the survey published on Tuesday, October 24, the mental health of medical staff is much worse than workers in other sectors.

The results follow the biggest healthcare worker strike in US history. About 75,000 unionized Kaiser Permanente workers walked out of the job in five states and the District of Columbia due to fatigue and persistent staffing shortages.

Dr. Debra Houry, CDC's chief medical officer, pointed out: "While usually health workers care diligently for others in their time of need, it is now our nation's health workers who are suffering, and we must act."

According to CNN, Houry said that the work of healthcare providers was difficult even before the pandemic. They deal with patients and their families, they are exposed to potentially deadly infections and have to work long hours under uncertain schedules. She acknowledged the emotional and mental toll of caring for the ill.

Previous studies have shown that nurses, health care support professionals, and health technicians, in particular, had a higher suicide risk than the general population.

Evidently, the COVID-19 pandemic worsened already difficult working conditions by overwhelming healthcare workers with a surge of patients, long hours, and supply shortages. These pressures contributed to an increase in mental health issues, suicidal thoughts, and drug addiction problems, all of which are experienced by a sizable percentage of the adult population in the US.

See Also: Strike at Kaiser Permanente Highlights Crisis in US Healthcare

The Data at Hand Calls for Action

There was a rise in the number of poor mental health days recorded by healthcare professionals between 2018 and 2022, according to the research. The percentage of healthcare workers who said they wanted to switch jobs increased to 44% from 33% in the 2018 study.

Meanwhile, the percentage of healthcare personnel who faced harassment, such as physical threats, bullying, or verbal abuse from patients or colleagues, increased dramatically from 6% to 13% throughout the course of the research.

Health professionals who reported being harassed were 5 times as likely to experience anxiety compared to those who did not. The likelihood of experiencing depression was more than three times as high, and the likelihood of experiencing burnout was almost six times as high, among those who were harassed.

However, the CDC concludes that this outcome may be avoided by instituting new and better rules and procedures in the workplace. The research showed that health professionals were less likely to suffer burnout if they trusted their management, had sufficient time to finish their tasks, and got assistance from supervisors.

Casey Chosewood, head of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health's Office for Total Worker Health, urged businesses to heed the warnings and implement prompt preventative measures. "Supportive work environments had a positive impact on health workers."

See Also: Biden Admin Pressuring Insurers to Cover Mental Health Care or Face Penalties

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Daniel Radcliffe has joined forces with David Holmes, his former stunt double from the Harry Potter films.

Unfortunately, David Holmes suffered a life-altering injury during a mishap on set, which left him paralyzed. Together, they are collaborating on an upcoming documentary for HBO, as per The Independent.

Daniel Radcliffe to Produce Stunt Double David Holmes' Documentary

In January 2009, a catastrophic accident occurred on the set of one of the most beloved film franchises of all time, Harry Potter. David Holmes, a talented stuntman who had been an integral part of the Harry Potter film series, was rehearsing a flying scene involving an explosion at the Leavesden film studios near Watford.

The accident left him paralyzed from the chest down, forever altering the course of his life. A decade later, a heartwarming documentary, "David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived," takes us through his remarkable life and the unbreakable bond he shared with Harry Potter, Daniel Radcliffe.

The documentary, a joint project by Sky and HBO Documentary Films delves into David's coming-of-age story. From a young gymnast to a skilled stuntman, his life had been defined by his passion for daredevil feats. But his role as Daniel Radcliffe's body double in the Harry Potter series became his defining achievement. Their friendship, both on and off the set, was integral to this narrative.

The accident during the filming of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1" was a pivotal moment in David's life. The explosion, which was part of the stunt, caused him to plummet to the ground. As fears grew that he had suffered a paralyzing back injury, David bravely told crew members, "I can't feel my legs."

This marked the beginning of a long, arduous journey towards recovery and self-discovery. Over the past ten years, the documentary team has collected footage that showcases David's stunt work, personal life, and the challenges he has faced since his life-altering accident.

Interviews with Daniel Radcliffe, friends, family, and former crew members provide insight into how David's life has evolved. Through it all, one can see the remarkable resilience of a man who refused to be defined by his limitations. The documentary sheds light on David's achievements in front of the camera and the remarkable attitude he developed towards life after his devastating accident.

David reflected on his journey in his own words: "Being a stuntman was my calling in life, and doubling Harry was the best job in the world. In January 2009, I had a stunt rehearsal accident that changed my life forever. This film tells the story of my achievements in front of the camera, the challenges I face every day, and my overall attitude to life after suffering a broken neck," according to Mail Online.

Read Also: Three Oscars and a Leonor: Meryl Streep Receives Princess of Asturias Award in Spain

David Holmes' Journey as Stunt Double

Amidst the turbulence of the world we live in today, David's story serves as a beacon of hope. He quoted Harry Potter as saying, "We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are divided."

David's strength, his unwavering spirit, and the support and love he has received from those around him testify to the power of unity and resilience.

The Harry Potter franchise is no exception in a world where reboots and sequels are commonplace. As rumors swirl about a potential Harry Potter TV series, Daniel Radcliffe weighed in, expressing his desire for the new filmmakers to make their mark on the beloved franchise.

He emphasized that he's not actively seeking a cameo and wishes the new team the best of luck. The series, set to focus on different books from the original franchise, represents a fresh start while still paying homage to the magic of the wizarding world.

As 'David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived' prepares to premiere on HBO and Max, it's a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Harry Potter series. While the original films hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide, this documentary shines a light on one of the unsung heroes who contributed to the magic.

With his remarkable journey and unbreakable friendship with Daniel Radcliffe, David Holmes proves that even in the face of adversity, the magic of resilience and friendship can endure. David Holmes' story is one of inspiration, courage, and the unyielding spirit of a young man who refused to let an accident define his life.

As we eagerly anticipate the premiere of 'David Holmes: The Boy Who Lived,' we are reminded that sometimes, the most magical stories are the ones that happen off-screen, Daily News reported.

Related Article: Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson Urges Museum To Fix His Wax Figure as Skin Tone Doesn't Match

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Aussie animal charity workers were heartbroken after finding urine and smashed glass strewn across their ransacked premises on Tuesday night.

In an emotional video, Emma from Canberra Pet Rescue reports vandals stole items that were supposed to be given to animal foster carers or owners suffering financial hardship. She then turns the camera around and reveals shocking levels of mindless damage to multiple rooms.

Theyve absolutely trashed this place theyve damaged the cat towers we had, everything, she says. She then shows a soaked corridor with a fire hydrant and internal glass panels with holes smashed in them. Other rooms at the centre in Curtain, ACT, have been robbed of medical, neonatal and fundraising supplies.

Canberra Pet Rescue has been ransacked by vandals. Source: Canberra Pet Rescue

Fire hydrants had been sprayed across rooms and supplies had reportedly been urinated on. Source: Canberra Pet Rescue

Sobbing before the camera, Emma says the team are very broken at the moment and said she hopes they can recover. To be quite frank, theres only so much that a small charity can take, she adds.

Police hunting for vandals behind shelter destruction

In a post to Facebook, the charity said three male offenders were seen at the premises, and reported they had threatened staff.

Supporters of the charity called the situation "heartbreaking" and "disgusting". "This is awful! I'm so sorry," another person wrote.

ACT Police told Yahoo News the offenders fled before they arrived, but significant damage was observed when they attended. Theyre urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.

On Wednesday night, Canberra Pet Rescue was calling for public help to help them salvage items not ruined by the vandals.

The registered non-profit group aims to help house pets in need and provide them with a stress-free environment. They do not charge people who need to surrender their pets and rely on donations to help support their work.

Story continues

If youre able to assist the charity you can find them here.

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According to authorities, an Ohio guy was upset that a church intended to host two drag events and tossed two Molotov cocktails at it in an attempt to burn it down.

Twenty-year-old Aimenn D. Penny was detained earlier this year after attempting to set fire to the Community Church of Chesterland on March 25. He entered a guilty plea on Monday to use explosives and fire to commit a felony and violate the Church Arson Prevention Act.

(Photo: by Joe Raedle/Getty Images) WILTON MANORS, FLORIDA - JUNE 17: Drag queens ride on a float during the Stonewall Pride parade on June 17, 2023, in Wilton Manors, Florida. Even as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Florida lawmakers passed anti-LGBTQ laws, the Stonewall Pride event brought nearly 50,000 people together to celebrate the LGBTQ community.

The criminal complaint claims that Penny built her Molotov cocktails using a vodka bottle and a beer bottle. An accelerant was utilized, gasoline, as reported by CBS News.

Investigators discovered that Penny is a part of White Lives Matter, which the criminal complaint referred to as an "organization with racist, pro-Nazi, and homophobic beliefs." Members of the group, including Penny, had attended a drag show in Wadsworth, Ohio, on March 11, protesting what they saw as the group's "racist, pro-Nazi, and homophobic views.

According to the criminal complaint, Penny was questioned by the FBI after he tossed the Molotov cocktails at the Chesterland church. He said he was attempting to defend kids.

According to the lawsuit, the church's front door was scorched by the Molotov cocktails. Additionally, a sign on the building's facade has burn marks. The property's southeast corner has a broken sign there.

The punishment for Penny is due on January 29. In addition to a required 10-year prison sentence that will run concurrently with any other prison term issued for using fire to accomplish a federal offense, he faces a potential 20-year jail sentence for violating the Church Arson Prevention Act.

In recent years, drag events have sparked protests and new legislation. A statute in Tennessee that severely restricted drag performances was deemed unlawful in June. A bill prohibiting children from attending drag performances was enacted by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in May.

Read also: Orlando: 11-Year-Old Trans Girl Leads 'Come Out With Pride' Parade-Sparking Concerns Among Netizens

Drag Performs are Accused of Being Pedophiles

Hate groups intended to disrupt a different drag-themed event in northeast Ohio in March that was a benefit for a nearby church.

Hate groups regularly accuse drag performers of being pedophiles, claiming that gatherings involving drag performers are intended to "groom" or abuse youngsters. Cleveland Proud Boys were accused of disseminating posters on social media encouraging people to join them in protesting at "a rally against groomers."

In Wadsworth earlier that month, a number of hate groups interfered with the Rock-n-Roll Drag Queen Story Hour by yelling charges of pedophilia at the audience members.

Related article: Judge Blocks Tennessee City's Ban on Drag Shows on Public Property

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The sterilization of people prior to legal gender transition has been found unlawful by Japan's Supreme Court.

According to the 2004 legislation, a person cannot change their gender if they are incapable of reproducing.

Following the filing of a petition contesting the law, a transgender lady received Wednesday's decision. Human Rights Watch (HRW), a rights organization, described the law as "abusive and out-of-date."

(Photo: by PHILIP FONG/AFP via Getty Images) In this picture taken on June 21, 2023, transgender woman Minori Tokieda uses an LGBTQ-friendly toilet, which is intended to defy traditional gender-based segregation, in an office building in Tokyo. A courtroom win and new anti-discrimination law could be seen as signs Japan is warming to the protection of LGBTQ rights. But activists warn of a dark side

It hailed Wednesday's decision as an "important victory for transgender rights in Japan" and praised it, according to BBC.

The decision overturns the court's 2019 decision that the identical statute was constitutional.

One of the 18 nations, including Japan, that forbid the sterilization procedure is the World Health Organization. It is also the only country in the Group of Seven (G7) that does not recognize same-sex unions under the law.

The woman's attorney had claimed that years of hormone medication had already reduced the woman's capacity to conceive and that surgery would result in physical pain and the possibility of side consequences.

Before going to the Supreme Court, her motion was turned down by the family court and the high court. However, several organizations opposed to the law's modification said that allowing people to change their recorded gender without surgery may make women feel insecure. They further suggested that it may lead to ambiguity in the law.

A Rise in Support for the LGBTQ

Despite criticism from politicians and groups associated with the conservative part of society, recent surveys have shown a rise in support for policies that are tolerant of LGBTQ people.

Gen Suzuki, a transgender man, was granted his request to have his gender officially altered without undergoing the procedure earlier this month.

Takehiro Sekiguchi, the family court judge, claimed that the present law broke Article 13 of the Constitution, which states that all persons must be valued as individuals.

Since then, more than 10,000 Japanese people have formally altered their genders, according to court records from the Oct. 11 decision.

Read also: Ohio Man Admits Trying To Burn Down Church for Planning To Host Drag Show Events

A Common Thing

According to the Shizuoka verdict, the majority of the 50 European and Central Asian nations with laws enabling persons to alter their gender on official records do not require surgery to remove sex organs. It highlighted that altering one's gender in this manner has grown commonplace around the world.

Many LGBTQ+ persons still conceal their sexuality out of fear of harassment at work and in schools in a society of conformity where the conservative government adheres to conventional paternalistic family values and is unwilling to accept sexual and familial diversity.

Some organizations opposed to greater acceptance of transgender persons, particularly those who transition from being designated male at birth to female, filed petitions with the Supreme Court on Tuesday urging it to maintain the necessity for surgery.

For same-sex couples to overcome obstacles in renting apartments and other areas, hundreds of towns now offer partnership certificates, although these are not legally enforceable.

Related article: Judge Blocks Tennessee City's Ban on Drag Shows on Public Property

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Airline rewards programs are now at risk of being wiped out because of a new bill aiming to lower credit card transaction fees.

Because of this, many flight agencies, such as Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, criticize this legislation, saying it's a bad policy. If you are a regular passenger and rely on airline rewards programs, here's what you need to know about the proposed Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA).

Airline Rewards Could End Because of CCCA

According to Business Insider's latest report, Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois proposed the Credit Card Competition Act in June. If this bill becomes a law, it will require big banks in the US to allow businesses to choose another payment network.

This means that airlines and other travel companies will be able to have at least one payment network that isn't Mastercard or Visa in credit card transactions.

Durbin argued that CCCA is needed because Mastercard and Visa hold a "duopoly" over card payments in the United States. He claimed that these two American banks control over 80% of credit card transactions.

The senator said that his proposed legislation was created to lower the 3% swipe fees that Visa and Mastercard charge to airlines and other businesses, which are usually passed on to consumers, leading to price hikes.

He added that if CCCA becomes a law, swipe fees will be reduced and a new market competition could start. But, some American airlines call this bill a "bad policy" because it could undermine their rewards programs.

Read Also: New Airfare Plan: France Considers End To Cheap Flights To Help Protect Environment

Why CCA is 'Bad Policy'

Southwest Airlines claimed that CCCA would undermine or even end credit card rewards programs offered by travel companies.

"This legislation is bad policy and would undermine, if not completely end, credit card rewards programs that millions of Americans rely on for their vacations or personal travel needs," said the Texas-based flight service provider.

Aside from this airline, The Daily Mail UK reported that United Airlines also opposes Durbin's proposed credit card swipe fee legislation.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby explained that CCCA is a bad policy because it could "kill" rewards programs if ever passed into law.

Southwest Airlines and United Airlines both argued that CCCA would negatively affect flight rewards programs because this legislation could drastically reduce the revenues of Mastercard and Visa.

If this happens, these payment networks would be less incentivized, forcing them to remove the loyalty rewards programs they offer to return the revenue they might lose.

Of course, airlines will also experience CCCA's impact since they could lose lots of revenues because they rely on credit card issuers to earn billions of dollars.

"Our customers certainly like them a lot. And so I think it'd be hard in Congress to take a vote that 84% of your voters are going to be upset with the outcome of that vote," said Scott Kirby.

Related Article: United Airlines Details Plans To Cut Boarding Time by Processing Window Seat Passengers First

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Gay and bisexual males should have the mpox vaccine even after the current outbreak has ended since they are at a high risk of contracting the virus.

The committee's suggestion is now transmitted to the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, who must approve it before it can be distributed to American physicians as advice, as reported by The Associated Press.

Last year, there were over 30,000 instances of mpox in the United States. This year, it decreased significantly, reaching only approximately 800.

(Photo: by PASCAL GUYOT/AFP via Getty Images) A nurse vaccinates a patient against monkeypox at a Centre gratuit d'information, de depistage et de diagnostic (CeGIDD) in Montpellier, southern France on August 23, 2022.

However, the CDC claims that every single case counts as an epidemic since the virus doesn't normally spread in the United States.

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is brought on by a virus that belongs to the same family as the smallpox virus. It is endemic to some regions of Africa, where individuals have contracted it by being bitten by rats or other tiny animals.

The virus was not known to spread quickly among humans, but in the spring and summer of 2022, instances increased in Europe and the United States, mainly among males who have sex with men. Although fatalities were uncommon, many patients endured uncomfortable skin sores for weeks.

Jynneos Vaccine

Jynneos, a two-dose vaccination, became a mainstay in the United States. It is generally advised for males who engage in sexual activity with other men who have several partners, who have recently had an STD, or who are otherwise more likely to have an infection through sexual contact.

Of the 2 million Americans who are eligible, only around 500,000 have received the necessary two doses of the vaccination, according to CDC authorities.

Read also: China Responsible for Most New Mpox Cases in September, Driving Worldwide Spike: WHO

CDC Warns the Virus is Still Present

According to CDC authorities, the new guideline can help to warn individuals that the virus is still present and that it is still possible to contract it when traveling abroad.

One to four new cases are reported on average each day in the United States, however, some people may not be receiving a diagnosis, according to CDC experts.

Since the mpox outbreak last year, there have been 54 documented deaths in the United States, including two in September.

In San Francisco, there were over 800 cases last year, but in the first half of this year, there was just one case on average per month. Seven instances were reported in August, 20 the next month, and at least ten so far this month.

Health authorities are closely monitoring several confirmed cases of the virus, raising alarms about its potential spread within the country. While health officials believe the risk to the general public is low, they are not taking any chances, and have initiated robust containment and contact-tracing measures to prevent further transmission.

Monkeypox, though unrelated to the more deadly Ebola virus, shares a similar mode of transmission and symptoms, such as fever, rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. The recent cases have highlighted the importance of early detection and swift containment to curb its spread, serving as a reminder that infectious diseases can cross borders, necessitating constant vigilance in the global effort to safeguard public health.

Related article: US Cities Vulnerable to Summertime Outbreaks as Mpox Ends

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According to Malaysia's communications minister, TikTok and Meta will receive a warning from the country's communications commission for allegedly removing pro-Palestinian content from their platforms.

Following comments from Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil that social media networks had been accused of limiting posts supporting the Palestinians, Meta has subsequently clarified that it was not purposefully stifling opinions on its Facebook platform, according to Reuters.

(Photo: by LIONEL BONAVENTURE/AFP via Getty Images) This picture taken on April 26, 2023, in Toulouse, southwestern France, shows a screen displaying the TikTok social media platform's logo and the European flag.

Without going into further detail, Fahmi said that several parties had requested the government to firmly punish social media companies for allegedly limiting pro-Palestinian information.

There was "no truth" to the assertion, according to a Meta representative. Requests for comment from TikTok did not immediately receive a response.

Read also: TikTok's New 15-Minute Video Limit Leads to Criticisms as Users Claim It's Copying YouTube

The Right to Freedom of Expression

Regarding the Palestinian struggle, Fahmi asserted that Malaysians have a right to freedom of expression and that this right will not be restricted. Next week, he added, he would meet with TikTok executives to talk about the situation.

Concerns have been raised two weeks after Fahmi said that TikTok had not completely complied with Malaysian legislation and had not taken sufficient steps to reduce offensive or deceptive material. In response, TikTok stated that it would take the initiative to resolve the concerns brought up.

Fadzil said there is evidence that the social media network TikTok has routinely banned information about the Israel-Palestine conflict from Malaysia.

According to Bernama, he claimed that the proof corroborated the numerous complaints his ministry had received from people who claimed that their live broadcasts and films on the subject had been blocked or taken down.

Videos of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's address from the "Malaysia Stands with Palestine" demonstration, which took place on Tuesday at the Axiata Arena in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, were among them, he said.

Fahmi claimed to have asked the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to summon TikTok for a meeting to discuss the situation and give a severe warning to the social media network.

A meeting with Meta will also be scheduled after a fictitious communication about limitations on material relating to "solidarity with Palestine" was received.

Additionally, over the past several weeks, Instagram has taken down photos and prohibited hashtags related to Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, one of the holiest sites in Islam, since the platform's content moderation algorithm incorrectly linked the location to a classification it reserves for terrorist organizations.

The error is Instagram's and its parent firm Facebook's latest content moderation issue. Facebook has been under fire from people all around the world for allegedly censoring posts criticizing Israeli brutality against Palestinians.

Related article: Meta, Instagram Sued by US States Over Depression, Anxiety, Insomnia Effects on Kids

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Israeli troops and armor launched an hours-long ground raid into northern Gaza late Wednesday night and into Thursday morning (October 25-26), targeting several Hamas installations to "prepare the battlefield" before an anticipated ground invasion.

The raid, which included indigenous Merkava tanks of the Israel Defense Force (IDF), was the latest in a series of military actions since the bloodshed Hamas initiated earlier this month.

The IDF said Israeli soldiers reportedly killed fighters and destroyed militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions without any casualties on their side.

However, there was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian deaths or injuries.

Gaza's Deteriorating Situation

The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reported on Wednesday that there were over 750 people dead in the past 24 hours, which was higher than the 704 killed the previous day (Tuesday, October 24). However, the Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

Also on Wednesday, The wife, two children, and grandson of Al Jazeera Gaza bureau chief Wael Dahdouh were killed in an Israeli airstrike, and the Qatar-based network showed footage of his grief as he mourned his dead son.

Read Also: Russia, China Veto US-Backed Resolution at UN Over Worsening Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Retired Israeli General: It's Just the Beginning

The IDF has since stressed they were only striking military targets and accused Hamas of operating and launching rockets among civilians in the densely-populated strip.

Benny Gantz, retired Israeli general and member of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's war cabinet, told reporters the anticipated ground offensive would only be "one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years."

"The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force," he added.

The remarks echoed Netanyahu's vow to eliminate Hamas for its attack on civilians on October 7.

"We brace for a ground incursion. I won't detail when, how, or how much. I also won't specify the set of considerations we weigh," he said. "When we enter Gaza, we'll make Hamas pay the price for its attack."

Related Article: Gaza Fuel Supplies May Halt Delivery of Aids as Hospitals Become 'Mass Graves'

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Three historical artifacts that were smuggled out of China by Australia have now been delivered to Beijing.

Chinese authorities in Canberra received a dinosaur fossil that is more than 100 million years old as well as two Tang Dynasty figures. The items were confiscated by police at the Australian border, who then reported them to the appropriate authorities for further inquiry, according to BBC News.

(Photo: by DAVID GRAY/AFP via Getty Images) Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (L) and Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney walk to a media conference at Parliament House in Canberra on October 14, 2023. Australians have roundly rejected greater rights for Indigenous citizens, scuppering plans to amend the country's 122-year-old constitution after a divisive and racially-tinged referendum campaign.

Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, will visit Beijing later this month after the handover.

These items are:

A fossil of a long-necked lizard called a hyphalosaurus, which lived between 120 and 133 million years ago in northeastern China.

A figure from the Tang Dynasty (618 to 907 CE) showing a rider on a horse playing a wind instrument. To ensure a secure voyage to the afterlife, these statues were erected in tombs.

An altar object from the Tang Dynasty that is a gilded bronze statue of the Buddhist god Avalokitesvara.

According to a representative of the Australian government, the Tang Dynasty artifacts were brought the next year, while the fossil was imported in 2020.

Before they reached Australia, the commodities had been forcibly transferred from China to other nations. No one was charged since there was no proof the Australian importers knew the items had been taken illegally from China, the spokeswoman continued.

Two other pieces from the Ming and Qing eras were also presented to China at the handover ceremony by the National Gallery of Australia and a private collector.

At the event, according to the news agency Xinhua, China's envoy to Australia, Xiao Qian, conveyed his "heartfelt gratitude" to the Australians.

A Successful Collaboration

Australia and China have reportedly been collaborating closely for the past three years to assist the return of illegally imported fossils, artwork, and cultural artifacts, according to Chinese official media.

After a ten-year inquiry revealed that three bronze statues from the 9th and 10th centuries had been stolen, Australia's National Gallery returned them to Cambodia in August.

The repatriation of four Aboriginal spears that were stolen by British explorer Captain James Cook and his landing party in 1770 when they first landed in Australia was also reported in March.

China has been louder recently in demanding the repatriation of historical artifacts that were taken from them, including ones that are presently in the British Museum.

Read also: Titanic Artifacts Found, New Discovery Mission "Like Opening a Treasure Box"

A Similar Story

In January this year, nine wooden Buddha sculptures that had been in the family of an Australian citizen for more than a century have now been returned to Thailand.

The little carved figurines, which are each around 10-15 cm tall, were returned at the request of Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which handed them over to the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture in a formal ceremony yesterday.

According to a story on the news website Thaiger, Canberra resident Murray Upton donated the artifacts, which are believed to have been created by regional artists in the southern city of Trang. Murray Upton claimed to have received the sculptures from his father, who bought them in Thailand in 1911.

Related article: Titanic Artefacts: 12 Most Shocking Things Discovered from the Wreck

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(Photo : Noam Galai/Getty Images for Clinton Global Initiative)

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - SEPTEMBER 18: California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks onstage during the Clinton Global Initiative September 2023 Meeting at New York Hilton Midtown on September 18, 2023 in New York City.

California Governor Gavin Newsom engaged in a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday.

The purpose of this meeting was to promote climate cooperation between the two nations, a trip that has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum within the United States, as per NBC News.

Positive Meeting Between Gavin Newsom, Xi Jinping

Reception for Newsom at this high-profile meeting sharply contrasted the official dialogue between Beijing and Washington in recent years. Relations between the world's two largest economies are currently at a low ebb over various issues, including China's aggression toward Taiwan, activities in the South China Sea, trade disputes, and human rights concerns.

Newsom, a Democratic governor, described his 45-minute encounter with President Xi as "remarkably positive." The meeting took place in the stately Great Hall of the People and is part of Newsom's week-long trip to China, which includes visits to Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, and the Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces.

This visit comes amid growing speculation that Newsom could be a potential successor to President Joe Biden if the 80-year-old decides not to accept the Democratic presidential nomination in 2024. However, Newsom has repeatedly ruled himself out as a candidate.

Speaking after he meets with President Xi, Newsom acknowledged the stress in US-China relations in recent years and expressed hope for a "new phase" in the relationship. He emphasized the need to manage strategic differences and reconcile established red lines between the two countries.

Newsom commended President Xi's willingness to work toward reconciliation and promote people-to-people exchanges. While Newsom expressed his support for President Biden, his China visit marks the latest in a series of profile-raising moves.

These include joining Donald Trump's Truth Social network for conservative debate, participating in a Republican primary debate to make the Democratic case, and challenging Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to a televised debate.

However, Newsom's trip to China has faced criticism from Republicans, who argue that he should address issues such as human rights abuses by Beijing and Chinese fentanyl production, according to Mail Online.

Read Also: Georgia Supreme Court Upholds 6-Week Abortion Ban, Sends Legal Challenge Back to Lower Court

Climate Diplomacy Takes Center Stage During Newsom's Visit to China

The meeting with President Xi occurred shortly after Republican Senate Leader Mitch McConnell referred to China as part of an "axis of evil" along with Russia and Iran.

During his visit to China, Newsom discussed climate change and collaboration between California and China in addressing this global challenge. He highlighted the importance of continuing climate cooperation, even with a difference in the White House.

Fentanyl production and precursor chemicals were also discussed, with Newsom describing the conversation as "remarkably positive."

In his discussions with President Xi, Newsom did not raise China's human rights record, including the persecution of Uyghur Muslims. Instead, the focus was on areas of potential collaboration.

President Xi hoped that Newsom's visit would enhance mutual understanding and promote cooperation between China and California while contributing to developing Sino-US relations. The meeting underscored the importance of climate change as a common ground for collaboration between the two nations.

The US media were physically blocked from Newsom's meeting with President Xi, while Chinese journalists were allowed access. Newsom's meeting with Xi followed discussions with China's top diplomat, Wang Yi, who is set to visit the US Newsom's visit is viewed positively by Chinese officials as a step toward mutual understanding and expanding cooperation.

Newsom's renewed commitment to climate cooperation with China and his discussions on other critical issues indicate a potential shift in the dynamics of US-China relations.

These high-profile meetings suggest stabilizing ties between the two nations and raise expectations for a possible meeting between President Xi and President Biden at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco, California, next month.

Newsom's role in these discussions highlights the diplomatic potential of climate cooperation in bridging differences between the US and China, South China Morning Post reported.

Related Article: California Found San Francisco Responsible for More Housing Roadblocks Than Other Cities in the State

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(Photo : Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images)

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 12: Kris Jenner attends the 2022 Baby2Baby Gala presented by Paul Mitchell at Pacific Design Center on November 12, 2022 in West Hollywood, California.

The episode titled 'It Takes A Village' began with Khloe Kardashian and her mother, Kris Jenner, discussing Kris' infidelity during her relationship with Robert Kardashian.

The interaction was hinted in the previous episode's ending, as per Mirror.

Khloe Kardashian Confronts Kris Jenner on 'The Kardashians'

The latest episode of 'The Kardashians' took viewers on a journey into the Kardashian-Jenner family's past, as Khloe Kardashian confronted her mother, Kris Jenner, about her infidelity.

Kris' 1989 affair with Todd Waterman had caused her divorce from Robert Kardashian, a pivotal moment in their family's history. Viewers were given an intimate glimpse into Kris Jenner's innermost motivations and the profound regrets that have shaped her life.

The episode opens with Khloe's direct question to Kris Jenner about her mindset during the affair with her father. Kris, taken aback, initially stammers at the question but proceeds to answer honestly.

She attributes her actions to being "young and dumb" at the time, suggesting that she didn't fully comprehend the consequences of her actions. Khloe continues to ask what her father lacked that made Kris Jenner seek companionship elsewhere.

Kris acknowledges the greatness of her late husband as a husband and father and admits that her actions were a colossal mistake and her life's biggest regret. Kris Jenner also reveals the unique bond she and Robert Kardashian formed after their divorce, a friendship that endured until his passing.

They spoke regularly and supported each other through various challenges. She reflects on her regrets during this period, wondering what she was thinking back then. Khloe's inquiry into her mother's past stems from her experience co-parenting her children with her ex, Tristan Thompson.

Khloe, a mother of two, has been navigating a tumultuous relationship with Thompson in the public eye. Kris' desire for Khloe to be cautious in her decisions and let go when necessary arises from her past missteps.

Despite her regrets, Kris asserts that everything happens for a reason and that "God has a plan."

She claims that with her past mistakes, she would have had Kendall and Kylie, her daughters, with Caitlyn Jenner, according to Mail Online.

Read Also: Japan: Social Media Users Criticize Popular YouTubers 'Train Fare Dodgers' in Uploaded Videos

Kris Jenner's Journey to Redemption

This revelation underscores Kris' belief in fate and her acceptance of her past. On the other hand, Khloe emphasizes her commitment to her children and her reluctance to prioritize a romantic partner at this stage in her life.

She's focused on cherishing her time with her kids and acknowledges that life is fleeting. Kris praises her daughter's decision to focus on her children and be present, recognizing that many fail to do so.

The episode provides valuable insights into Kris Jenner's past actions and her path to redemption and self-acceptance. It shows her profound remorse for her past actions, her enduring friendship with her ex-husband, and her belief in a higher plan for her life.

Kris' reflections serve as a lesson for viewers, highlighting the importance of understanding one's past mistakes, finding the silver linings in life's challenges, and ultimately accepting and forgiving oneself. Her story reminds us that we all make mistakes but can learn and grow from them; that truly matters.

As the episode unfolds, it becomes clear that Kris Jenner's journey is not just a personal one but also a testament to her family's resilience and unwavering bond. The Kardashians have faced numerous trials and tribulations throughout their public lives, but they continue to support one another and find strength in their unity.

In a world where personal growth and self-reflection often take a backseat to drama and sensationalism, this episode of 'The Kardashians' provides a refreshing glimpse into a family's willingness to confront their past and learn from it.

It's a reminder that the journey toward self-improvement and acceptance is universal regardless of background or celebrity status. Kris Jenner's story, as told in this episode, serves as a beacon of hope and an example of how one can find meaning and purpose even in life's most challenging moments, E! News reported.

Related Article: Daniel Radcliffe To Produce Documentary About Paralyzed 'Harry Potter' Stunt Double

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US Vice President Kamala Harris has pointed to Australia as a shining example of how a country can successfully enforce gun laws after the nation endured its 565th mass shooting this week.

Standing in front of both country's flags during a luncheon held for Anthony Albanese in Washington DC on Thursday, the vice president condemned the actions of a gunman who stormed a bowling alley in Maine, killing 18 people and injuring 13 more. She again advocated for stricter gun control.

US Vice President Kamala Harris praised Australian gun laws after another US mass shooting this week. Source: Twitter

"Gun violence has terrorised and traumatised so many... It does not have to be this way, as our friends in Australia have demonstrated," Ms Harris said, turning to her right and gesturing to the prime minister.

The statement was met with a round of applause by those in the room before both leaders joined in.

VP Kamala Harris condemns the Lewiston, Maine, mass shootings at a luncheon for Australian PM Anthony Albanese and argues for gun control:



Gun violence has terrorized and traumatized so many ... It does not have to be this way, as our friends in Australia have demonstrated. pic.twitter.com/XCk2WpPUO6  The Recount (@therecount) October 26, 2023

Australia's crackdown on gun ownership

In contrast to the US, there is no legal right to gun ownership in Australia and 'self-protection' is not a recognised reason to possess, own or use a firearm. The system in Australia requires both the licensing of the individual shooter and registration of each individual firearm, and prospective gun owners face a national registry and 28-day wait period before approval is granted.

Story continues

In 1996 the Port Arthur massacre in Tasmania, which left 35 people dead and injured a further 18, prompted mandatory 'gun buybacks' from the government  a program which allows civilians to sell their privately owned firearms to authorities without risk of prosecution. The program paired with radical changes to gun laws have resulted in the rate of mass shootings plummet in Australia.

The decision to implement decisive change after the 1996 mass shooting is often upheld as an example of what the US should do, however, more and more tragedies are reported every month with many US states in favour of keeping guns laws as they are.

The US state of Maine has extremely relaxed gun laws where the most recent shooting took place. Residents are able to obtain a firearm without a waiting period of undergoing a background check, and there are no 'red flag' laws in place for authorities to look out for.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
The messaging app Telegram has restricted access to channels belonging to the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas in order to limit the group's influence online after pressure from critics amid the ongoing war Israel declared against it.

CNBC first reported and verified the ban on the official channel of Hamas (hamas_com) and its militant wing (al-Qassam Brigades) for Android users.

It was not clear whether the firm had done the same on iOS.

Those trying to access the channels would be met with a message that read, "Unfortunately, this channel can't be displayed on Telegram apps downloaded from the Google Play Store."

However, some other Hamas-linked channels, like Gaza Now - which has over 1.6 million subscribers - remain accessible on Telegram.

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov previously resisted calls to remove Hamas's presence on the app, stating that the group has been a crucial source of information about the war.

In an October 13 post, he said that Telegram's moderators and artificial intelligence tools removed millions of posts related to the war that are "obviously harmful" every day, but also insisted that "tackling war-related coverage is seldom obvious."

"Would shutting down their channel help save lives - or would it endanger more lives?" the Russian-born tech founder said. "While it would be easy for us to destroy this source of information, doing so risks exacerbating an already dire situation."

Read Also: Israel Executes Another Raid into Gaza

Preventing the Spread of Terror Online

Since its attack in southern Israel on October 7, the Gaza-based terror group has used social media to spread its message through its footage of Hamas fighters shooting and mutilating Israeli and foreign civilians and taking some of them hostage.

The move was similar to what happened following the Russian invasion of Ukraine when social media firms like Meta, Google, and Twitter - now known as X - came under similar pressure to crack down on pro-Russian propaganda and misinformation on their platforms.

The Wagner Group, the Russian state-funded military contractor agency headed by Yevgeny Prigozhin until his death a few months ago.

Since the October 7 Hamas raid, the European Union sent several warnings to X, Meta, and TikTok, warning then that they might face investigations and potential penalties under the Digital Services Act, a landmark piece of regulation requiring tech companies to clean their platforms of illegal and harmful content if they do not do enough to eradicate misinformation and disinformation surrounding the Israel-Hamas War.

Previously, Hamas previously used Telegram to "warn civilians in Ashkelon to leave the area ahead of their missile strikes," Durov added.

On the other hand, Instagram previously shadowbanned Palestinian accounts and their content.

Related Article: Malaysia Takes Stand, Issues Warnings to TikTok, Meta Over Suppression of Pro-Palestinian Content

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The Maine mass shooting led to the death of over 18 innocent civilians. As of writing, hundreds of investigators are still looking for the shooter behind the deadly attack in Lewiston, Maine.

The local police department announced that the suspect had been identified as 40-year-old Robert C. Card. Cops warned residents that they should always be on the lookout and consider this man as armed and dangerous.

Maine Shooting Update: What We Know About Robert C. Card

According to USA Today's latest report, the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, happened on Wednesday, Oct. 25. Because of this, school districts decided to cancel classes.

Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities warned residents and other people in Lewiston to lock their doors and avoid going outside as much as possible since Robert C. Card is still at large.

As of writing, limited information about the shooter is known. These include him possibly being an Army Reservist who is stationed out of Saco, Maine.

The New York Post reported that Card could be suffering from mental health issues. Based on previous reports, the shooter is allegedly hearing voices.

There was even an instance when Card threatened the military training base in Saco, saying that he would shoot everyone there, as claimed by sources familiar with Robert.

Another thing that the police disclosed about Robert is that he is believed to be a firearms instructor at a National Guard facility in Saco.

When it comes to educational background, Card reportedly studied engineering at the University of Maine (2001-2004). Meanwhile, his criminal records only showed two speeding tickets, which happened between 2001 and 2002.

Read Also: Las Vegas: 2 Teenage Suspects in Hit-And-Run Killing of Cyclist Seen Smiling, Laughing in Court

Police Still Manhunting Robert Card

The Maine State Police announced that they already ordered over 100 investigators in order to manhunt Robert C. Card.

Investigators were able to acquire a mugshot of the suspect. Based on the image, Robert is white-skinned and has a mustache and beard, as well as short hair.

On the other hand, the Lewiston Police claimed that they found a white SUV that is believed to be driven by the mass shooter.

The vehicle was specifically seen in Lisbon, which is around eight miles away from Lewiston.

If you want to learn more about the ongoing manhunt against Robert C. Card, you can click this link.

Related Article: Maine: Man Killed At Least 16 People in Mass Shooting, Police Safeguards Residents

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Pro-Palestine protesters stormed The Cooper Union Library in New York on Wednesday (October 25) as the issue surrounding the Israel-Hamas War escalated.

It was reported that protesters were pounding on the door and shouting "Free Palestine" and other pro-Palestine chants while Jewish students were inside the library. Several social media accounts have recorded or snapped videos or photos of the demonstration.

In particular, both the New York Times and the New York Post reported that the protesters also banged the large glass window overlooking the library's interior.

Students representing the pro-Palestine rally provided a statement to CBS New York that they planned to "peacefully protest outside the building" before walking in and continuing their protest outside the president's office. They also insisted that many different students of all backgrounds were in the library by the time of their rally.

"We would like to make it clear that our protest was not targeting any individual students or faculty, but the institution itself," the protesters wrote. "We would like to reiterate that we do not under any circumstance condone antisemitism and many members of the protest were Jewish."

Read Also: Pro-Palestine Man Threatens Jewish Family After Breaking Into Their Home

Jewish students inside the Cooper Union library were encouraged to hide by a staff member trying to help as pro-Palestinian protesters banged on the doors and windows.



Security was nowhere to be found. The school did not answer questions.https://t.co/BNGPl3NRKL  Louis Keene (@thislouis) October 26, 2023

Jews Inside Library, Public Officials Expressed Concern

Pro-Israel and Jewish Cooper Union students told reporters that school staff locked them inside the library due to safety concerns. It was reported that some of them also participated in a counter-demonstration earlier that day, which featured enlarged signs of some of the Hamas hostages.

"It was tense. People were nervous," one student said. "They were specifically acting very aggressively in those spaces where outwardly Jewish students were sitting."

However, the New York Police Department (NYPD) stated that they were at the scene during the whole protest and its officers safely escorted the Jewish students from the library. There were also no injuries, arrests, or property damage in the planned demonstration, the NYPD added.

In response, both New York Mayor Eric Adams and New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed disappointment over the protest.

Related Article: Florida Universities Urged To Ban Pro-Palestinian Student Group on Campuses

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U.S. President Joe Biden called for stronger gun laws after the mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, which is considered to be the deadliest one recorded this 2023.

POTUS said that the American nation is mourning for the victims of Robert C. Card, who killed over 18 innocent residents and injured up to 50 civilians.

Here's what Joe Biden specifically said about the latest Maine mass shooting.

Joe Biden Calls for Stronger Gun Laws After Maine Mass Shooting

On Thursday, Oct. 26, Joe Biden said that the United States is mourning again after the "senseless and tragic mass shooting" in Lewiston, Maine.

"Today, Jill and I are praying for the Americans who've lost their lives, for those still in critical care, and for the families, survivors, and community members enduring shock and grief," said the American leader.

Joe Biden added that American citizens should heed local officials' warnings and guidance to ensure their safety, especially since the shooter is still at large.

Reuters reported that the U.S. president is also calling out Republicans in Congress to help him enact stronger gun laws to avoid further senseless mass shootings in the American nation.

"Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it," said Biden via the official White House press release.

In his own effort, POTUS said that he already told Maine Gov. Janet Mills, as well as Senators King, Collins, and Congressman Golden that his administration would provide everything they needed to support the affected state's residents.

He promised that the Biden Administration would continue to be there "every step of the way.

Read Also: Sikh Man, 66, Beaten to Death in Brutal Attack in New York; Mayor Eric Adams Condemns Incident

More Efforts to Regulate Guns Needed

During his speech, Biden said that the U.S. government already made some progress on gun safety through the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act.

Aside from this, he added that the first-ever White House Office of Gun Violence has been established and two dozen executive actions were taken.

However, Biden clarified that these efforts are not enough to prevent further mass shootings. Because of this, he urged Republican lawmakers to fulfill their duties to protect U.S. citizens.

He called them out, saying that they should help him pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Joe Biden also encouraged these lawmakers to require gun safe storage, end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers, and enact universal background checks.

Related Article: Maine: Man Killed At Least 16 People in Mass Shooting, Police Safeguards Residents

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Spam emails are now sounding more human-like. If you are going to blame something, you can blame this issue on AI tools.

Luckily, Google announced that it will release a solution that will prevent Gmail spam from pestering users.

If you are using Gmail and other email platforms on a daily basis, here's what you need to know about the worsening spam email messages.

Detecting Spam Emails Getting More Difficult Due To AI

Tech Crunch's Haje Jan Kamps, a Dutch author, said that he received an email from his ex-colleague whom he hadn't seen for the past few years.

Kamps said that his friend's email message was greatly written. However, he noticed something strange about it. He explained that most of the Gmail messages he received from his friend were not as good as the latest one sent to him.

He described it as a lot more "eloquent" compared to other emails. This is when he realized that his former colleague used an artificial intelligence tool to generate the email message.

Kamps explained that his friend's email message clearly shows that generative AIs are becoming more adept at writing messages, that sound more human-like.

He warned that since new AI tools can now craft, personalized and convincing email messages, users will find it more difficult to detect which ones are written by bots and which ones are crafted by real humans.

The Dutch author claimed that if this AI trend goes on, sales, spam, and even phishing emails will be able to fool more users.

Now, the question is, how will Google protect its users from human-like AI-generated email messages?

Read Also: Microsoft's New Copilot AI Could Replace Windows 12 Start Button

Google's Solution To Worsening Spam Emails

The Verge reported that Google is planning to release an anti-spam solution this coming February 2024.

The tech firm will specifically implement new Gmail requirements that can improve email security, reduce spam messages, and make unsubscribing from commercial email senders easier.

Google said that the new requirements will be enforced on bulk Gmail senders; accounts that send over 5,000 messages to Gmail users each day.

Among the upcoming Gmail requirements is a clearer spam rate threshold for bulk email senders, which will prevent them from bombarding unwanted email messages to users.

Another rule that Google will implement is offering Gmail recipients the ability to unsubscribe from commercial emails with just a single click.

The last Gmail requirement is ordering bulk email senders to follow Google's best practices so that their emails can be strongly authenticated.

Related Article: Google Advances Artificial Intelligence Efforts, Including Generative AI-Powered Search Engine

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(Photo : Seoul Children's Grand Park Zoo)

Sero (right) and his late partner, Coco (left), who died on Oct. 16, 2023 due to complications relating to her pregnancy.

Sero, the zebra known for running away from a zoo in Seoul due to his distress after losing both his parents in the span of two years, has been dealt with another heartbreak.

The Seoul Children's Grand Park Zoo announced this week that his partner, 17-month-old Coco, and their unborn offspring, died due to complications related to her pregnancy.

The Korea Herald detailed that Coco began showing signs of an abdominal ailment on October 11, when she had difficulty standing up. Four days later (October 15), she was taken to an equine specialist for surgery but succumbed to her condition the next day (October 16).

A biopsy report indicated that she died from a colic bowel obstruction, a common issue in pregnant horses.

Read Also: Kris Jenner Defends Cheating Robert Kardashian, Says Affair While Being Married Was 'All Part of God's Plan'

Loyal Mates

A zoo official told reporters that Coco was notably distressed as Sero occasionally cried out in search of his departed mate, as the pair shared a tight bond.

With Coco gone, there are speculations about Sero's future, with zoo officials confirming on Wednesday (October 25) that they are set to introduce a new companion for him. An undisclosed zoo already confirmed this week that they were in talks of introducing the young male zebra to a female seven years her senior.

Zebras naturally live in harems consisting of one male and multiple females, typically averaging around seven members in total. However, it remains to be seen if Sero, already having faced multiple hardships throughout his short life, would adapt to the next chapter of his life.

Related Article: Couple Attacked by Rhino at Austrian Zoo, Woman Killed

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Brooke Williamson NY food and wine - Rick Kern/Getty Images

The holiday season is just around the corner, and like many of you, we've got turkey on our mind. The stereotypical Thanksgiving dinner has us roasting a whole turkey in the oven, but is that really the best way to go? At the 2023 New York Wine and Food Fest, Tasting Table had a chance to sit down with celebrity chef and restaurateur Brooke Williamson, and we asked her about what she does for Thanksgiving and what she recommends for home cooks.

Williamson admitted that she'd be satisfied "with a Thanksgiving dinner that consisted of a sausage chestnut stuffing and a salad," but she still loves smoked turkey legs."I brine them overnight, throw 'em on the smoker for six to eight hours until they're super, super tender and get that beautiful smoke on them," she shared. We were sold; that sounded fantastic, but smokers aren't always the easiest way to cook. To help out the folks back home, we wanted to know what she was doing to make sure they came out perfect. She said the big mistake people make is thinking that they have to smoke the whole bird at once. "I think people assume when you smoke turkey, you have to smoke a whole turkey, but I think the best part is those drums or the legs ... or the wings!" she proclaimed.

Read more: 12 Different Ways To Cook Chicken

Cooking The Turkey In Pieces

young girl eating turkey leg - Skynesher/Getty Images

It's something we here at Tasting Table have said before, and we're happy to have the support of the pros. Turkeys aren't uniformly consistent throughout. We all know that there's light meat and dark meat on a turkey. They cook at different speeds and, if you cook them both together, you often overcook the white meat while you're waiting for the dark meat to finish. You end up with a lot of dry, bland white meat, which is no good. "You can just buy the parts and smoke the parts, and those take half the amount of time," said Williamson. "And you never find a dry turkey leg. It's all dark meat, my way to go."

If you're feeding enough people where buying the whole turkey makes sense, just carve off whatever parts you want to smoke and cook the rest a different way. It may seem like more work, but once you taste the results, you'll never go back. You can always do what Williamson does and buy the turkey already cut into whatever pieces you want to use. Don't forget to brine them overnight for the most lip-smacking Thanksgiving ever.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
About 7,000 trainees are thought to have taken part in the scheme

NHS trusts have been accused of using foreign doctors as "cheap labour" following an investigation.

Doctors can work in English hospitals for two years as fellows to gain experience to implement in practice in their home countries.

But a British Medical Journal (BMJ) investigation claims some are paid less than other employees, and have fewer benefits.

The NHS said the fellows played an important role.

About 7,000 trainees have taken part in the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' (AoMRC) Medical Training Initiative (MTI) scheme from countries including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia since it began in 2009.

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital is run by University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust

The BMJ found an agreement between the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) with University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust led to trainees being paid less than trust-employed workers.

It claims senior fellows from Pakistan who worked at UHB as grade three specialty trainee (ST3) registrars or above were paid a stipend of between 2,700 and 3,600 a month by CPSP, which is the equivalent of 32,400 to 43,200 tax-free a year.

They are not guaranteed overtime pay or pay for on-call work.

The BMJ said UHB would not confirm the exact equivalent salary details, but according to NHS payscales, ST3 doctors employed by the trust were paid 51,017 in 2022-23 and 55,328 a year in 2023-24 as a basic gross salary, excluding any overtime or enhanced hours payments.

However, UHB said that it was not representative to compare the two pay scales.

One consultant, who spoke to the BMJ anonymously, claimed UHB was using fellows as "cheap labour", although another senior medic at the trust praised the scheme for its training opportunities, but highlighted a lack of equal pay and rights.

An AoMRC spokesperson said the issues raised were "concerning" and doctors should be paid the "correct rate for their work" but that it was a matter between the doctor and the NHS organisation that employs them.

Story continues

In light of the BMJ investigation, CPSP is set to review and overhaul some guidelines, but said the scheme had improved healthcare in Pakistan.

A spokesperson for UHB said the programme "undoubtedly benefits the NHS system, but in return it benefits the overseas healthcare structure".

The NHS said fellows played a vital role

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said it did not directly employ staff who are part of the trainee scheme so is "not responsible for their remuneration".

She said it had not received concerns from colleagues but would look into any that were raised.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said it has recruited three MTI fellows under the CPSP scheme, who are due to start in November, but does not have any in post at present.

The CPSP has been approached by the BBC for comment.

An NHS spokesperson said salaries are agreed "between the individual trust and their international partner" and fellows play an important role in treating patients while learning "advanced clinical skills".

Follow BBC West Midlands on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to: newsonline.westmidlands@bbc.co.uk
Locals have come out in droves to praise an IGA staff member who was struck by a shopper after attempting to check her bag.

In shocking CCTV footage released by WA Police, the woman appears to be leaving the store through a blocked exit. The male IGA worker asks to check her bag. As he grabs the bag, the woman turns back and begins hitting the staffer in the head.

As the altercation continues, the 33-second clip shows other shoppers and staff attempt to break up the pair.

The woman was captured on CCTV hitting the IGA worker. Source: Mandurah Police

Police investigate altercation

When two other staff members come to the aid of their colleague, the woman leaves with her bag.

Cops are now appealing for information after the incident happened at around 2.20pm on Tuesday at Silver Sands IGA in Mandurah. WA Police have urged anyone with information about the woman who appears in the video to reach out.

Locals praise IGA worker

Many Aussies took to social media to express their shock over the incident and praised the staff for their handling of the situation.

Well done to the workers there, especially the boy, said one person. Workers should not have to deal with assault from customers or thieves whatever the case may be.

Well done to the worker for standing up, and to his workmates for their support, said another.

They don't get paid enough to deal with this sort of behaviour, added a third. Well done to the young bloke for standing his ground!

Yahoo News has contacted IGA on the matter.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Douglas Elliman tapped to lead sales for the development's 146 branded residences.



Construction is estimated to get underway in early 2024, with completion slated for 2026.

West Palm Beach will soon welcome its first branded luxury real estate development. Terra, one of South Florida's most active real estate development firms, and the Palm Beach-based Morrison family's Sympatico Real Estate, have unveiled plans for Mr. C Hotel & Residences in West Palm Beach, Florida. Located at 320 Lakeview Avenue, in the heart of Downtown West Palm Beach along South Dixie Highway, the 25-story condominium hotel will include 110 rooms alongside 146 branded residences. The development's standout features will include a signature Bellini restaurant and lounge and an exceptional rooftop pool deck showcasing unobstructed views of Palm Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Construction of the project is slated to begin in early 2024 and wrap up in 2026.

Mr. C Hotel & Residences West Palm Beach marks Terra's first development in the Palm Beach County market and the third South Florida property for the Mr. C luxury hospitality and residential brand, founded by brothers Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani. The project will follow the success of the brand's two successful Miami properties: the Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove hotel, and the sold-out Mr. C Residences in Coconut Grove, which is also being developed by Terra and is nearing delivery later this year.

Terra and Sympatico have tapped Douglas Elliman to lead sales and marketing for the development's condominium component. Residences will include one- to four-bedroom units measuring between 830 and 2200 square feet in size. Owners on select floors will also have the option of entering their units in the property's hotel rental program. Sales are anticipated to launch in November.

Members of the fourth generation of the Cipriani family, internationally renowned for restaurants, landmark event spaces, lounges, and residences, Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani conceptualized a hospitality and residential brand that would bring the best of Old World and modern luxury together for today's most sophisticated clientele. In June 2011 the first Mr. C hotel was born in Beverly Hills, California, setting a new era in timeless yet contemporary hospitality. It was followed by hotels in New York City, with Mr. C Seaport, and Miami, with Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove. The company's residential portfolio includes Mr. C Residences now underway in Coconut Grove and Jumeirah.

Award-winning firm Arquitectonica will lead the architectural design for Mr. C Hotel & Residences West Palm Beach, with the property's lush landscaping designed by Landscape Design Workshop. Meyer Davis will curate the project's interiors and amenity spaces in collaboration with Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani to include signature design cues from the brand.

Resident amenities will include a fitness center and spa, yoga studio, co-working lounge center, dog run, Bocce court, and a resort-style pool deck with cabanas, a children's playground, and a barbecue area. Hotel amenities will include a Bellini cafe and restaurant, ballroom, lounge room, Niche library, along with a rooftop pool, lounge and jacuzzi area with fully serviced cabanas.

Among Terra's portfolio of luxury developments underway across South Florida are Five Park, an iconic 48-story luxury condominium rising at the entrance to Miami Beach; the two-tower Mr. C Residences Coconut Grove, which is nearing completion later this year; The WELL Bay Harbor Islands, a wellness-focused mixed-use property with 54 luxury residences and 100,000 square feet of class A office space; Villa Miami, a luxury condominium tower in Miami's Edgewater district being developed in partnership with One Thousand Group; and the Grand Hyatt Miami Beach convention center hotel in Miami Beach.

Hotel website
Owner and operator of diverse portfolio of hotels and resorts to add second property in the Nordic market

Project sees the refurbishment of two historic buildings in collaboration with Ylva

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with more than 530 hotels in 56 countries in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Ocean, Europe, South America and North America, announces the upcoming launch of its first property in Finland - the five-star NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa - as part of its expansion plans in the region.

Currently under construction in partnership with Ylva and slated to open during Q1 2024, this will be Minor Hotels' second property in the Nordic region, after the opening in 2021 of the NH Collection Copenhagen. The new Helsinki hotel will combine two of the city's most iconic and recognisable buildings: the Kaleva building (known as the Hotel Seurahuone) and the New Student House (home to the famous Hansa Hotel between 1924-1968), as well as a more recently constructed extension. A full refurbishment of the two existing buildings and the construction of the third by Ylva are in the final stages and when it launches next year NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa will offer 224 contemporary guest rooms a restaurant, a lobby bar, a rooftop bar with a spectacular terrace and 360 views of central Helsinki, extensive spa and fitness areas, and nine meeting and event spaces.

The new NH Collection will be located on the main street of Helsinki, Mannerheimintie, in front of the central station, 25 minutes by car and 33 minutes by train from the airport, making the property the perfect spot for business and leisure travellers wishing to stay in the heart of the city.

Elsewhere, NH Collection has recently launched its first hotels in the Middle East and Asia: the NH Collection Dubai The Palm and the NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort. Recent additions to the NH Collection portfolio in Europe include NH Collection Milano CityLife, NH Collection Frankfurt Spin Tower and NH Collection Prague Carlo IV. In addition, the brand plans to open NH Collection Chiang Mai Ping River in Thailand and NH Collection Luang Prabang in Laos, both in 2024, as well as a number of new properties in China during the year ahead.

Hotel website
Indian School of Hospitality (ISH), the preeminent institution in the field of hospitality education, is delighted to announce the participation of Mr Kunal Vasudeva, Co-Founder & Managing Director of ISH, as the keynote speaker at the esteemed UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization) General Assembly.

Mr Vasudeva took the stage on October 19 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, to address the eminent gathering on the theme "Education, Investing in the Future" and also moderated a panel discussion on this substantial topic.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Vasudeva delivered an impactful keynote address, stating, "We have entered the experience economy, which is anticipated to evolve into an 8.2 trillion dollar behemoth; this isn't a niche but a transformative force that shall alter the very DNA of our economy. It is no longer about unit economics but human economics! It's no longer the software engineer, the lawyer, or the medical professional leading this charge. It is us  the individual trained in the art and science of hospitality."

He also argued against the misconception that hospitality education is merely vocational training and emphasised the need for a significant shift in this perception. According to him, skills such as emotional intelligence, adaptability, and resource management are no longer optional but are pivotal to professionals in the 21st century.

Mr Vasudeva also advocated for unified action and public-private partnerships and shed light on the role of UNWTO in recognising the significance of quality education in sustainable tourism. Furthermore, he pointed out the need for a global approach to hospitality education and how a UNWTO-backed accreditation can become the gold standard.

He also stressed on the role of education in fostering ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance) principles during his address and highlighted the endeavours of countries like the Maldives, New Zealand, and Costa Rica, which have successfully integrated sustainability into their tourism industry, and underlined the need for more nations to follow suit.

He also pointed out that adopting ESG principles can lead to significant financial benefits, and therefore, called for their global adoption.

At the end of the keynote, Mr Vasudeva shared a real-life example of Rahul, a hospitality graduate from India who implemented sustainable practices in his family resort. His practical approach made him an authority in policy-making circles while scaling his business. Rahul's initiative solidified the role of hospitality education in promoting sustainability and equality.

Mr Vasudeva left the audience with the choice between embracing and leading the changes in the experience economy and also mentioned that re-evaluation and re-invention of hospitality education isn't a matter of choice but a strategic imperative.

The 25th session of the UNWTO General Assembly incorporated a vibrant Global Forum on Education, emphasising the pivotal role of education in shaping the future of the tourism industry. This esteemed event brought together high-level ministers, thought leaders and renowned experts from around the globe to explore out-of-the-box approaches to tourism education and its significant impact on the sector.

Amid the panel discussion moderated by Mr Vasudeva, the esteemed participants delved into the substantial topic of "Unlocking Horizons: Tourism as a Must-Have Subject in Education and Youth Perspectives," while also unveiling the UNWTO Education Toolkit. The toolkit was recognised as a valuable resource to enhance tourism education worldwide.

The eminent panellists involved in the thought-provoking discussion included-:

Ms Alisha Gulden, Senior Vice President of Sales, National Restaurant Association (NRA), American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI)

Ms Sue Moffat, Head of Humanities and Social Sciences Portfolio, Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge International)

Ms Zukhro Bakhromkulova, student of Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Prof. Urs Wagenseil, Professor & Head of Touris at Institute of Tourism, Lucerne University of applied Sciences & Arts

The panel highlighted the significance of providing real-world exposure to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricacies of the hospitality industry. This hands-on approach is considered crucial for ensuring that graduates are job-ready and able to make valuable contributions from their very first day on the job.

The panellists also acknowledged that the tourism sector is dynamic and rapidly changing and educational programs need to adapt and evolve to stay relevant.

The gathering unanimously agreed that the curriculum should be designed with a clear focus on fostering responsible and sustainable tourism, ensuring that students are empowered to protect the culture and the environment. This proactive approach helps prepare students for careers that align with global sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the panel also discussed the flexibility of syllabuses and underscored the importance of allowing teachers to incorporate new initiatives and innovative approaches into their courses. This adaptability ensures that education remains aligned with the latest industry trends and emerging technologies.

Mr Vasudeva also had a significant interaction with the Indian Ministerial delegation at the event including Ms Manisha Saxena, IAS, Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and Mr Roshan Mammarappallil Thomas, Director, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India (Overseas Marketing, International Cooperation, IT Division).

The discussion encompassed crucial issues related to India's tourism sector and the role of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in creating a conducive environment for sustainable tourism and technology integration.

The UNWTO General Assembly convenes every two years and brings together influential representatives from the organisation's member states and accomplished figures from the global tourism sector. The remarkable platform is recognised for fostering extensive discussions, knowledge sharing, and the creation of strategies to promote sustainable tourism across the globe.

It is considered one of the most influential meetings of global tourism officials and notable representatives of the private sector.

Some of the key highlights of the Global Forum on Education included-:

High-Level ministerial debate on policies to foster innovation & education for current and future generations:

The insightful debate witnessed the convergence of tourism ministers from pioneering nations in tourism education.

The head honchos delved deeper into the formulation of innovative policies and effective instruments to bolster innovation and education for present and future generations in the tourism sector. The gathering also focussed on strengthening global partnerships to support inclusive and sustainable tourism development.

Keynote address on education, investing in the future:

The inspiring address explored the considerable opportunities and challenges associated with investing in education. The speaker shed light on the significance of dedicating resources, especially to education in tourism.

Unlocking horizons: Tourism as a must-have subject in education and youth perspectives - presentation of the UNWTO Education Toolkit:

The session included a lively fireside chat featuring the unveiling of the UNWTO education toolkit. A panel comprising education partners and academic representatives underscored the importance of integrating tourism studies into secondary education. It also shared inspirational stories and experiences showcasing the transformative potential of education.

Launch of the tourism academy in Uzbekistan:

A striking presentation demonstrated the commitment of Uzbekistan to support tourism education and its collaboration with UNWTO via the launch of the Tourism Academy.

Awards Ceremony: UNWTO Ulysses Prize for Excellence in the creation and dissemination of knowledge in tourism:

The occasion celebrated the incredible career of the 16th Ulysses Prize laureate, recognising individuals, organisations, or institutions that have made outstanding contributions to the creation and dissemination of knowledge in the field of tourism.

The prestigious award fosters innovation, research, and expertise sharing to promote the tourism sector and nurture sustainable development.

Closing remarks & signing ceremony:

The Global Forum on Education reached its conclusion with closing remarks and a symbolic signing ceremony. The ceremony highlighted a resolute commitment to elevating tourism education to new heights across the globe.

The assembly also acknowledged the essential role played by hospitality and education in shaping the global economy and charting the course for the future of tourism.

Sharing his delight at the participation of the Indian School of Hospitality at the UNWTO General Assembly, Mr Kunal Vasudeva said, "I am deeply honoured to be part of the UNWTO General Assembly as a keynote speaker. In a sector characterised by constant transformation, innovative educational programmes are vital for fostering sustainable progress. Our objective is to inspire change and underscore the critical role of education in nurturing the next generation of hospitality leaders and change agents. This momentous occasion also highlights ISH's commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality education and making a lasting impact on the industry."

As part of Sommet Education's global network, ISH has carved a distinctive reputation in hospitality education, nurturing highly proficient industry professionals. This unparalleled legacy of excellence demonstrates the significant impact which the institution is making in shaping the future of the hospitality sector.

About Indian School of Hospitality

Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) is an institution of higher education that focuses on reimagining hospitality education for today's generation and tomorrow's businesses. ISH is part of Sommet Education's global network, with 18 campuses in eight countries. ISH aims to impart lifelong skills to students, providing them with the tools they need to succeed as leaders in one of the world's largest industries.

Located in Gurugram (Delhi NCR), ISH offers international degrees, diplomas, and certificate programs in Hospitality Management and Culinary Arts at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Their culinary program is offered in partnership with the global Ecole Ducasse brand, while their hospitality management program is in alliance with Les Roches, one of the world's leading hospitality business schools.

About Sommet Education

Sommet Education is the world's leader in hospitality management education. The global network includes Swiss-originated hospitality business schools Glion Institute of Higher Education and Les Roches, as well as culinary and pastry arts school Ecole Ducasse. In 2021, Sommet Education expanded its reach with the acquisition of South African education leader Invictus Education and the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) in Gurugram (Delhi NCR).

These institutions offer 400 undergraduate, graduate, and technical training programs to 9,000 students from 100 different nationalities and 10,000 learners. Teaching is offered across four continents on 18 campuses, as well as through state-of-the-art remote learning platforms. The schools boast a network of 60,000 influential alumni in hospitality and beyond.

Sommet Education is the only education group with two institutions ranked in the Top 5 globally for hospitality education and by employer reputation (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).

Anouck Weiss

Chief Communication Officer Sommet Education

Sommet Education

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An elderly man is being forced to move out of his home against his will as a result of the Queensland government's stadium redevelopment plans ahead of the Brisbane Olympics in 2032.

Trevor Connolly, 93, has lived in his beloved home for 60 years and has built a life and family in the property situated in the city's inner east suburb of Coorparoo. The widower and great-grandfather is eager to enjoy his final years in the place he calls home.

"The thought of moving out... I don't like the thought of moving out," he told A Current Affair. "Where can you go after 60 years? You got 60 years of your life here."

Trevor Connolly is being forced to give up his home ahead of government plans to rebuild the Gabba for the Brisbane Olympics in 2032. Source: A Current Affair

The retired electrician has early dementia and living in a space which feels homely and has decades worth of special memories with his late wife Margaret  and his daughters, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren  is important to him.

"I don't want the house knocked down, I just want to stay here from the remaining years ... I don't want to leave my home."

Queensland government's plan to expand the Gabba

Only two kilometres up the road from Mr Connolly's home stands the Gabba stadium which will be rebuilt ahead of the Olympics. This decision will impact 124-year-old East Brisbane State School which will be demolished and relocated to the grounds of Coorparoo Secondary College, which itself will expand taking up neighbouring land including the 93-year-old's home which will be reduced to a school drop-off zone.

The Department of Education issued Mr Connolly a notification of its decision and outlined he would need to move out of the property by Christmas this year.

Family outraged by government's decision to flatten home

Mr Connolly's family are angered by the plans and questioned why a man who has "paid the taxes all their life" would face this reality, with the family ready to fight back.

Story continues

"Going into the negotiations [the focus] is that he is to be allowed to stay here for the rest of the days. I think they owe him, a 93-year-old, I think they owe him that much," his daughter Anne Connolly said.

Mr Connolly's family are outraged he is being forced out of his home of 60 years. Source: A Current Affair

"Since 1962 he's been here and he's lived in the street since he was 11 so his attachment to this house and this street is very, very strong ... No 93-year-old should have to be worrying about those things at his stage in life."

The Department of Education said they don't take the decision to acquire land lightly and intend to negotiate in a compassionate manner, A Current Affair reports. The deadline for Mr Connolly to leave his home has been extended to next year, however, the specific date has not been specified.

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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Human interaction is more important than ever as society recovers from COVID-induced social changes and welcomes the arrival of ubiquitous artificial intelligence such as ChatGPT. Human experience based on interactions is not only critical to the traditional hospitality industries but also other industries, such as healthcare and retail. As part of the Hospitality Vibes interview series, I interviewed Claudio Garbellini, Deputy General Director of SOL Group, Italys leading home care provider. The aim: to understand a leading expert's perspective on human interactions and their impact.

What is the concept behind patient happiness?

What led me to patient happiness, was wanting to define a sense of excellence in our work, i.e., a concept beyond the idea of traditional customer satisfaction that everybody could immediately understand. If somebody is happy, it means that they are more than satisfied. It signifies having achieved something exceptional: the job has had a positive impact on somebodys life - which is extremely rewarding. This is the basic idea behind the desire for patient happiness.

At the same time, as an economical operator, we have to be customer-centric which means being sure that our offer has all the characteristics to be chosen by the customers. In our line of business, our customer definition is unique as it involves several decision makers. We refer to them as the magic triangle: patients, physicians and payers.

The patient receives the service but usually does not choose or pay for it. The physician chooses the service but does not use or pay for it. Most of the time, the payer is the healthcare system or the insurance company.

In order to be chosen we need to gain the trust of all these stakeholders, especially that of the decision makers in critical situations. This can be quite complicated, as the weight of the decision power varies significantly depending on many aspects.

But what do these stakeholders have in common? The wellbeing of the patient. Patients remain at the center of the equation, and if they are happy, (i.e., beyond satisfied), all the stakeholders will be willing to work with you.

In this sense, the hospitality industry has a similar customer-centric philosophy. When you step into a hotel or restaurant where employees treat you exceptionally well, you immediately notice it - their enthusiasm and dedication radiate happiness in their work. In a similar vein, our medical business strives for patient happiness by fostering employee happiness.

What makes you believe in employee happiness?

Our job leaves little space for mistakes as each slip up could have an impact on a human life. Being consistent in what you deliver is pivotal to our activities. This requires important organizational investments in medical technologies, IT systems, capillary logistics, and especially peoples know-how. But this on its own could come across as cold or industrial if there werent special attention given to the human being - the one that generates patient happiness.

This is what often differentiates us from our competitors: the culture of excellence for every single case and, above all, the human touch because we believe that feeling treated as a human is vital, especially when in a vulnerable state.

Physicians say that human attention and empathy are a type of therapy, transmitted by people who really care for their job and get satisfaction from what they do. My boss once said you can't motivate people if you are not motivated yourself. Similarly, you can't make patients happy if you are not happy yourself. That's why we aim for employee happiness.

How to create employee happiness?

Figure 1: What do human beings search for in their lives? Source: EHL

What do human beings search for in their lives? Psychologists have often stated that creativity (innovation or new experiences), along with safety and security instead of risks, add meaning to a persons work. If people live out new experiences without safety and meaning, they will not be satisfied. If people only want safety and security, their life may become boring. When taking care of employees, managers work along these three lines to create something new, provide a safe environment and give meaning to their work.

The mission of our medical business is to enable patients to be treated at home - not in hospital. This is a simple mission statement that motivates many people, especially me. Our employees know that their work is valuable to patients and this is very motivating in itself. Then, every person has their own motivation triggers and managers have to, one by one, identify employees' individual drivers balancing the components of creativity, safety and security and meaning.

Given your organization has 3,000+ employees, how can you aim to know them individually?

It is of course impossible to follow every single employee. For sure it is very important to overcommunicate the ultimate goals, but I can't simply tell these stories and expect that this motivates everyone. It only works if there are more people, and not necessary just managers, who share these values. But when a company has a lot of staff, as in our case, it is the continuous creating of experiences that nurtures this spirit. In truth, its the stories I hear from the teams around me that are actually motivating me in a virtuous cycle.

All of our employees know that their work is based on taking care of patients, even the ones that they are not in direct contact with. As stated, this work is inherently rewarding but can also be quite challenging. Employees can be attacked by patients very easily, for instance, and they need in this case their team leaders to help and support them.

People follow other people, much more than they follow ideas. So, in our company which is organized into small or medium groups, you need to have leaders who are visible and present. Understanding individual employees and giving meaning to their work is the essential work of the manager.

In big corporations, employees often do not understand the ultimate goals or take them for granted. We believe that it is crucial that employees and managers recognize that they can contribute to the ultimate company goals and that there is a right balance between staff autonomy and responsibilities. You need to make this real every day.

How do you measure employee happiness?

At present, we don't have specific measurements but use the classical human resource KPIs, such as employee turnover rate.

A high turnover is not a good sign and we have to understand why employees are leaving. I believe this happens normally for four reasons. First, they don't like what they do. Second, they do not have perspectives, (not necessarily career-related, this could also be simple things like the possibility of learning something new). Third, they don't enjoy the atmosphere of the department (it's very difficult to stay when not aligned with the direct boss). The fourth one is the salary aspect.

We can see these four factors in a reverse way. If we want to retain employees, we must offer them something they like to do (job crafting), provide perspectives, a good atmosphere through culture, and a good boss and a competitive salary package. We nurture all these elements to create employee loyalty.

 Source: EHL

From employee happiness to employee fulfillment

Achieving patient happiness through human touch is our strategy to differentiate from our competitors. Happy employees will deliver the patient happiness. To improve employee happiness, my main message is to consider the individual employee's need for meaning, creativity, safety, and security and leverage the nature of the job, perspectives, atmosphere, and salary. We do all these for the sustainable success of the company.

However, while employee happiness is a good concept, I sometimes prefer alternative terms such as employee fulfillment and self-motivation - to avoid possible wrong interpretations. Chasing employee happiness doesn't mean spoiling people like children or having them not work hard.

Companies in every industry, including hospitality, aim to achieve sustained success, and hard work is a vital component of that. A solid business performance must in my opinion always be the ultimate goal of a company and it comes above harmony, thereby the two dont conflict in my opinion. Especially in healthcare. Continuity is an important asset, customers like to interact with people they know and harmony in the company plays an important role in this aspect.

However, when a managers main goal is harmony, people may end up not speaking about problems because they don't want to destroy the harmony. Consequently, the company misses the opportunity to find solutions. Eventually, problems become more prominent and end up with poor business performance - and then no harmony is possible anymore.

What architectural design and organization can be used to improve employee happiness?

There are three elements that comes to my mind: a good physical layout of the workplace, the availability of working from home and team-building activities. Our operations in UK recently moved into a new modern building and many employees emailed us enthusiastically about it. I am curious to see how long it will last, but there are positive reactions for the moment.

Figure 1: What do human beings search for in their lives? Source: EHL

The second element, which is very in vogue at the moment, is the possibility of working from home. Some employees request this while others feel isolated and want social contact. We also organize regular employee trainings and team-building activities to create and sustain team spirit.

These are important tools for managers which can be used to motivate people, however no fancy office can keep employees motivated if employees don't find the basic components that we mentioned earlier.

What is the role of technology?

Technology can take out repetitive tasks and also avoid mistakes, which is relevant for us. A manager of a private hospital in Milan once told me that anything that could be transformed or validated by algorithms, must be algorithmized. I also believe in that.

Think about artificial intelligence. Today our patients call to ask questions about their devices or their therapies to our experts. Sometimes these questions can be answered only by people with specific know-how, but many of them could be addressed by technology such as chatbots. Adoption of these technologies on a large scale finds resistance in the healthcare industry because the patient population is considered to be less digital and also because this partially removes the famous human touch.

The healthcare industry is not necessarily the best environment for new experiments because patient safety is the top priority and it is correct to be risk conscious. Therefore, maybe the impact of AI will come slower than other industries, but it will come.

Refraining to follow progress means that sooner or later you will oblige people to perform jobs that they know it could be done by a machine, which is not very motivating. Not automatizing also would create a competitive disadvantage very quickly. It's again up to the companies to change in a smart way. Use technology to make work better, easier and safer for employees.

Companies need to evaluate what technology can and can't provide. Technology certainly cannot offer the human touch!

Jeff Bezos believes people are ready to do anything to save one euro, and indeed, economic benefits play a very important role in the decision making of the consumers. Yet, Amazon's service is fantastic and works very well. Regarding the hospitality industry, people can order food delivery and avoid human interaction if they want something quick to eat. But when people go to a restaurant it is not only about eating. Yesterday was my wife's birthday: we went out with the family, interacted with the owner, enjoyed seeing other people and even learned something from the waiter. All these aspects are part of going out. Technology cannot offer a similar experience, the joy of social interaction needs a physical environment.

 Source: EHL

EHL Hospitality Business School

Communications Department

+41 21 785 1354

EHL

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Las Vegas posted the highest increases in ADR (+20.3% to US$257.42) and RevPAR (+23.5% to US$229.57).

U.S. hotel performance increased from the previous week and showed improved year-over-year comparisons, according to CoStars latest data through 21 October.

15-21 October 2023 (percentage change from comparable week in 2022):

Occupancy: 69.0% (-0.8%)

Average daily rate (ADR): US$165.32 (+3.8%)

Revenue per available room (RevPAR): US$114.04 (+2.9%)

Among the Top 25 Markets, Seattle saw the largest year-over-year lift in occupancy (+8.5% to 76.1%).

Las Vegas posted the highest increases in ADR (+20.3% to US$257.42) and RevPAR (+23.5% to US$229.57).

Miami saw the steepest RevPAR decline (-12.3% to US$133.01).

CoStar is a leading provider of online real estate marketplaces, information and analytics in the property markets. For more information about the company and its products and services, please visit www.costargroup.com.
The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI) and the Hotel Electronic Distribution Networking Association (HEDNA) announce a partnership for the mutual benefit of their members and the hospitality industry. The hospitality industry will gain from the combined knowledge and expertise from each organization. The collaboration will elevate HSMAIs distribution capabilities and expand the educational content and insights shared with their constituents.

This new partnership between HSMAI and HEDNA will focus in areas where the two organizations have synergy with our mutual hotel stakeholders in each HSMAI Region around the globe, said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, president and CEO, HSMAI. HSMAIs stakeholders who have sales, marketing, revenue, or any other commercial functions related to optimizing demand and profitability for hotels and hotel companies can benefit from the insights pertaining to distribution that HEDNA curates.

With this integration of knowledge, HSMAI and HEDNA stakeholders will enjoy a broadening of resources, including:

An expansion of shared educational assets between HSMAI and HEDNA, who will each create and share content tailored to each others constituents, including videos, webinars, articles, research, case studies, and more

Session collaboration at each organizations global conferences in North America, Europe and Asia, discussing trends, opportunities and best practices

Educational sessions organized by HEDNA integrated into each of HSMAIs Commercial Strategy Conferences and ROC events globally.

A HEDNA U distribution workshop during HSMAIs Commercial Strategy Week on June 24, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina

Christopher Murdock, HEDNA President and Director of Distribution System Support and Strategy at Accor states, As our Distribution professionals see more and more cross-over with Sales, Revenue and Marketing teams, this partnership is perfectly timed. Education is one of my top priorities for HEDNA and I cant think of a better partner than HSMAI. Their experience in learning and certification modules will not only bring incredible benefits to our members, but the industry overall as we look to offer our respective expertise through content and engagement opportunities.

The first event to benefit from this newly announced partnership will be HEDNAs Global Distribution Conference which will take place in New Orleans from Jan. 16 to 18, 2024. The program will include a wide range of topics in hospitality distribution derived straight from industry headlines and recent news.
Rendering of the the Luxury Collection Resort, Hon Thom Island

Marriott International, Inc. has announced the signing of agreements to open three new luxury resorts in Vietnam. The signings mark the expected debut of two new brands into Vietnam  Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection on the tropical paradise of Hon Thom Island in Phu Quoc. Additionally, Marriott also announced Vietnams third JW Marriott Hotel set for Trang An, the serene UNESCO World Heritage destination in northern Vietnam.

The agreements were signed by President and CEO of Marriott International Anthony Capuano during a recent visit to the country. He was joined by President for Asia Pacific (excluding China) of Marriott International, Rajeev Menon, and Area Vice President for Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, Jakob Helgen. Chairman Vu Quang Hoi from BITEXCO Group and Chairman Dang Minh Truong from Sun Group also oversaw the signings during two ceremonies that took place in Hanoi and Phu Quoc.

We are delighted to continue expanding our portfolio in Vietnam, particularly in the luxury space, said Rajeev Menon, President for Asia Pacific (excluding China) of Marriott International. Vietnam is a growing market for luxury travel, with rising demand from both international and domestic sectors. For overseas guests, Vietnams status as a destination with many natural and cultural wonders makes it ideal for visitors seeking one-of-a-kind experiences. The countrys domestic market interested in luxury travel is driving a rise in demand for global luxury brands. These signings further underscore our commitment to the future of hospitality and luxury in Vietnam.

JW Marriott Trang An Resort & Spa

Slated to open in 2028, JW Marriott Trang An Resort & Spa is being developed by BITEXCO Group, which also owns the JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi. Nestled amid lush wetlands and verdant hills, this luxury retreat includes plans for 150 spacious rooms and suites, plus a collection of 35 one- and two-bedroom villas, with options for private pools. Plans for the resort also include two restaurants, a cafe, lobby lounge and two bars, while leisure facilities are expected to include two pool zones, the brands signature Spa by JW with six treatment rooms, a fitness center, kids club with outdoor playground, and a recreational activity center. In addition, the hotel is slated to feature 850-square meters of event space, comprising a 500-square meter ballroom and two meeting rooms.

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Owned by Sun Group, the resort on Hon Thom Island will be part of The Luxury Collection brand and is slated to open in 2029. Located on the northwest coast of Hon Thom Island, this luxury resort expects to feature 305 rooms and suites, ranging from 50 to 250 square meters and includes family accommodations. Plans call for two pool areas, a kids club, activity center, fitness center and a spa with seven treatment rooms, whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms. Six restaurants and bars will offer diverse dining options, and 1,690 square meters of flexible event space includes a 900-square meter ballroom and three smaller function rooms. Sun Group also owns the JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.

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Anticipated to open in 2028 and slated to be designed by Bill Bensley, the new Ritz-Carlton Reserve is set to offer a complete escape and immerse visitors in a private world of luxury and natural beauty. Located on an intimate estate close to the south tip of Hon Thom Island, with stunning sea views of Phu Quocs southern archipelago, the resort expects to offer a curated collection of 40 pool villas. Plans also include two resort pools, a spa, salon, fitness center, three restaurants, three bars and Jean-Michel Cousteaus Ambassadors of the Environment educational program for kids, which will feature a two-story activity center and garden. The resort is also slated to feature a 300-square meter event space suitable for beach front weddings. This resort is also owned by Sun Group.

Hon Thom is home to a wealth of natural wonders, set in turquoise seas just off the south coast of Phu Quoc, and is connected to the main island by a breath-taking cable car. Trang An is located approximately 90km east of Hanoi and is famed for its sugarloaf mountains, rice fields, caves, rivers and wetlands, as well as its historical temples and palaces. This is Southeast Asias first dual World Heritage Site.
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Authorities investigating the fatal stabbing of synagogue leader Samantha Woll have yet to name a suspect days after the murder that shocked the Detroit community.

At around 6.30am on Saturday, the 40-year-old leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue was found stabbed to death at her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood.

Authorities believe she was attacked inside her home and then stumbled out before collapsing on the sidewalk.

On Monday, Detroit Police Chief James White said at a press conference that his agency is working in partnership with the FBI and Michigan State Police and has already identified persons of interest.

Chief White also said there was no evidence suggesting the murder was a hate crime.

We are working through what we have identified as some persons of interest ... but we are very early in the investigation, he said. We have a number of people who give us interest, we are just short of calling one of the people a suspect.

Woll once worked as a former aide to Democratic Rep Elissa Slotkin and campaign staffer for Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Key Points

She acted with profound solidarity, Samantha Wolls friend says

Thursday 26 October 2023 15:30 , Andrea Blanco

In an opinion piece published on Monday The Jewish Daily Forward, Rabbi Alana Alpert wrote that Woll had been planning a Muslim-Jewish dinner in the weeks that preceded her death.

That request really epitomized her: always thoughtful, always building welcoming and diverse communities, always acting from profound solidarity, Alpert wrote.

Alpert also touched on the speculation surrounding Wolls death, asking the community not to jump to conclusions and wait until the investigation is concluded.

Story continues

Authorities said earlier this week that Wolls stabbing is not believed to have been motivated by anti-Semitism.

Samantha Woll remembered for her interfaith work

Thursday 26 October 2023 13:30 , Andrea Blanco

The Michigan chapter of Council on American Islamic Relations called her death a tragic loss, noting interfaith work with Wolls congregation.

That included a prayer vigil for the victims of the deadly 2018 attack on a Pennsylvania synagogue.

We are troubled by the horrific murder of Samantha Woll, a beloved leader within her faith community in Metro Detroit, said Dawud Walid, the Muslim advocacy groups executive director, in a Saturday statement.

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death in her home. Police have no idea why

Thursday 26 October 2023 11:30 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities in Detroit believe that 40-year-old Samantha Woll was attacked inside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood.

Woll, the president of Isaac Agree Downtown synagogue, left a trail of blood as she stumbled outside of her home and eventually collapsed on the sidewalk.

The Independents Andrea Blanco reports:

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death at home. Police have no idea why

Police say it is confident antisemitism was not motive in Wolls killing

Thursday 26 October 2023 09:30 , Andrea Blanco

A motive in Wolls murder has yet to be established. The possibility of a home invasion has been ruled out.

Detroit police corporal Dan Donakowski said during an update on Sunday that Wolls death is being investigated as a homicide but there is no evidence suggesting the murder was a hate crime. He said that investigators had found a large Israeli flag in Wolls home that was left untouched, according to ClickOnDetroit.

Chief White said on Monday that his department is seeking a suspect believed to have acted alone, and noted he doesnt think there is a threat to the community at large. He also asked the public to be patient and not jump to conclusions as evidence is reviewed and processed.

We are not in the position to discuss [details,] Chief White said. There are certain factors that are only shared by the suspect and our investigators.

Detroit community mourns the passing of synagogue leader Samantha Woll

Thursday 26 October 2023 07:30 , Andrea Blanco

Woll led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue since 2022

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:30 , Andrea Blanco

She has been remembered by loved ones as a leader who worked to unite people through her interfaith work. Dawud Walid, president of the Council on American Islamic Relationss Michigan chapter, called Wolls death a tragic loss and praised her efforts to unite the Jewish and Muslim communities in Detroit.

We are troubled by the apparent homicide of Samantha Woll, a beloved leader within her faith community in Metro Detroit, Mr Walid said in a statement. We also send our sincere condolences to her family and friends and to the Detroit Jewish community as a whole for the tragic loss.

According to a 2017 article by The Detroit Jewish News, Woll was instrumental in the founding of the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit, an alliance that helps build bonds between Jewish and Muslim youth.

By extending her hand and creating space for connection between Muslims and Jews, she has exemplified the values of healing the world, the article read.

She was a source of light, Michigan Governor says about Samantha Woll

Thursday 26 October 2023 03:30 , Andrea Blanco

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer paid tribute to Woll.

My heart breaks for her family, her friends, her synagogue, and all those who were lucky enough to know her. She was a source of light, a beacon in her community who worked hard to make Michigan a better place, she said in a statement.

Authorities believe Samantha Woll was attacked inside her home

Thursday 26 October 2023 01:30 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities in Detroit said Wolls body was found just outside her home on Saturday morning after someone called officers to alert them of a person lying on the ground unresponsive.

While at the scene, police officers observed a trail of blood leading officers to the victims residence, which is where the crime is believed to have occurred, Cpl Dan Donakowski said.

Police Chief James White said that investigators believe Woll was attacked inside her home and she then stumbled out and eventually collapsed on a sidewalk.

Woll, 40, had led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue since 2022.

Friend of Samantha Woll says slain synagogue president had been organizing

Wednesday 25 October 2023 23:30 , Andrea Blanco

In an opinion piece published on Monday The Jewish Daily Forward, Rabbi Alana Alpert wrote that Woll had been planning a Muslim-Jewish dinner in the weeks that preceded her death.

That request really epitomized her: always thoughtful, always building welcoming and diverse communities, always acting from profound solidarity, Alpert wrote.

Alpert also touched on the speculation surrounding Wolls death, asking the community not to jump to conclusions and wait until the investigation is concluded.

Authorities said earlier this week that Wolls stabbing is not believed to have been motivated by anti-Semitism.

WATCH: Detroit police say it is close to arresting the suspect in Jewish leader's killing

Wednesday 25 October 2023 21:20 , Andrea Blanco

Samantha Wolls neighbour reveals disturbing incident around time of murder

Wednesday 25 October 2023 18:30 , Andrea Blanco

A couple who lives near the home where a Detroit synagogue leader was killed over the weekend has revealed a disturbing incident that occurred around the time of the murder.

Samantha Woll, 40, was found stabbed to death at her home in the Lafayette neighbourhood in the early morning hours of Saturday. Police officials said that it is believed she was attacked inside the home and walked to the street before collapsing on the sidewalk.

Read more:

Samantha Wolls neighbour reveal disturbing incident around time of murder

Slain synagogue president sent heart emoji to friend hours before stabbing death, sister says

Wednesday 25 October 2023 17:00 , Andrea Blanco

The grieving sister of Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll has revealed her final text before she was stabbed to death over the weekend.

Authorities in Detroit continue investigating 40-year-old Wolls murder on 21 October as it emerged on Monday that several persons of interest are being interviewed by law enforcement.

Detroit Police Chief James White said Woll was attacked inside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood and then stumbled out of her residence before collapsing on the sidewalk, leaving behind a trail of blood that led investigators to the disturbing scene.

Woll, the president at Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, was laid to rest on Sunday during a service with more than 1,000 in attendance, including city and state politicians whom she had worked with. The slain community leaders sister Monica Woll Rosen delivered a eulogy, sharing with mourners that Wolls final text was a heart emoji sent to a friend.

You sent hearts to cheer people up and let them know youre thinking of them  because you cared, Ms Woll Rosen said, also revealing that a friend of her late sister had received flowers from her on the day of her death, according to The New York Post.

Friend of Samantha Woll recounts slain synagogue leaders happy, fun final hours

Wednesday 25 October 2023 15:30 , Andrea Blanco

Just hours before she was found stabbed to death on the sidewalk outside of her Detroit home on Saturday, 40-year-old Woll attended a wedding where she celebrated with friends, authorities previously said.

Woll, the beloved president at Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, was her normal, positive, pleasant self. She left the ceremony shortly after midnight, but nothing about her demeanour could have predicted the horrific attack she would endure in the following hours.

She was happy, she was having fun, Michigan Senator Stephanie Chang, a close friend of Woll, told FOXs LiveNOW. My last memories of her will always be really happy and positive.

Sen Chang and Woll attended the University of Michigan together and had grown closer in the years that followed through their community work. Woll, who worked as a former aide in Michigan Attorney General Danna Nessels reelection campaign last year, was also part of Sen Changs campaign.

Synagogue leader had tried to cheer up friend with text message before she was killed

Wednesday 25 October 2023 14:00 , Andrea Blanco

The final text message sent by Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll has been revealed before she was found murdered outside her home on Saturday.

Speaking at her funeral service on Sunday, Wolls family said that she had sent a heart emoji to a friend just because.

Not long later, at around 6.30am on Saturday morning, the 40-year-old leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue was found stabbed to death at her home.

Police close to naming suspect in Samantha Woll death investigation

Wednesday 25 October 2023 13:00 , Andrea Blanco

Investigators have identified several people of interest in the fatal stabbing of a Detroit synagogue president but would not talk about their connections to the woman during a press conference Monday.

Authorities found 40-year-old Samantha Wolls body outside her home early Saturday after a caller told police about a person lying on the ground.

Detroit Police Chief James E. White said police know Woll  who led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue  attended a wedding Friday night and that she left the celebration around 12.30am.

He said there was no sign that anyone forced their way into her home and investigators believe Woll was stabbed inside before stumbling into the yard.

We have a number of people that give us interest. We are just short of calling one of the people a suspect, he said, adding that investigators believe a suspect acted alone.

WATCH: Detroit police say it is close to arresting the suspect in Jewish leader's killing

Wednesday 25 October 2023 12:00 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities probing Wolls stabbing ask for patience as investigation unfolds

Wednesday 25 October 2023 11:00 , Andrea Blanco

The FBI is aware of the incident, and will assist the Detroit Police Department as requested, the agency said in a statement to CNN.

Detroit Police Department Chief James E White urged the public not to draw any conclusions until more facts were gathered.

Understandably, this crime leaves many unanswered questions. This matter is under investigation, and I am asking that everyone remain patient while investigators carefully examine every aspect of the available evidence, he said in a statement.

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death in her home. Police have no idea why

Wednesday 25 October 2023 10:00 , Andrea Blanco

Just a mile from the Michigan synagogue that she had led since last year, Samantha Wolls lifeless body was found in the early morning hours of Saturday. Outside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood, Detroit police officers followed a trail of blood to the disturbing scene.

The brutal stabbing of the beloved president at Isaac Agree Downtown synagogue has shocked the local community and city officials, who have remembered her as a beacon of light in the community who sought to build bridges between Jews and Muslims.

Few details about the murder will be released in order to protect the investigation, Chief James White said during a press conference on Monday, but the evidence suggests that the killing was not motivated by antisemitic sentiments.

The Independents Andrea Blanco reports:

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death at home. Police have no idea why

Neighbour says her tires were slashed around time of Samantha Wolls murder

Wednesday 25 October 2023 09:00 , Andrea Blanco

A couple who lives near the home where a Detroit synagogue leader was killed over the weekend has revealed a disturbing incident that occurred around the time of the murder.

Samantha Woll, 40, was found stabbed to death at her home in the Lafayette neighbourhood in the early morning hours of Saturday. Police officials said that it is believed she was attacked inside the home and walked to the street before collapsing on the sidewalk.

Authorities have yet to name a suspect in the investigation, but Chief James White said during a press conference on Monday that several persons of interest are being interviewed. Neighbours of Woll have since come forward with reports that the two driver-side tires on their white Mercedes were slashed when they returned home on Sunday after leaving town for the weekend.

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, told Fox News that her car was parked just 200 feet away from Wolls home  and she and her husband have since notified law enforcement. When asked about the incident as he delivered updates on Monday, Chief White said that his office would be investigating the reports and whether it is connected to Wolls murder.

A spokesperson for the Detroit Police Department told The Independent on Tuesday that there are no updates in that regard.

Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Wolls murder not motivated by antisemitism, police say

Wednesday 25 October 2023 08:00 , Andrea Blanco

Detroit police corporal Dan Donakowski said during an update on Sunday that Wolls death is being investigated as a homicide but there is no evidence suggesting the murder was a hate crime.

The Independents Andrea Blanco reports:

Detroit synagogue leaders murder not motivated by antisemitism, police say

She fought for everyone

Wednesday 25 October 2023 07:00 , Andrea Blanco

Samantha Wolls sister Monica Woll Rosen shared with mourners how the slain synagogue president fought for everyone.

You sent hearts to cheer people up and let them know youre thinking of them  because you cared, Ms Woll Rosen said, revealing that a friend of her late sister had received flowers from her on the day of her death, according to The New York Post.

That was you, Sam, Ms Woll Rosen added. You didnt even ask. You just sent flowers and signed 10 other peoples names because you knew it would make the receiver happy  and the others would have wanted to say happy birthday if they knew it was your birthday.

WATCH: Jewish leader Samantha Woll laid to rest

Wednesday 25 October 2023 06:00 , Andrea Blanco

What have police revealed about Samantha Wolls stabbing?

Wednesday 25 October 2023 05:00 , Andrea Blanco

Law enforcement said that police received a 911 call reporting a person lying on the ground unresponsive around 6.30am on Saturday.

When officers arrived at the scene, they followed a trail of blood that led them to Wolls residence.

Woll was stabbed multiple times inside her home, Chief James White said on Monday.

It is believed she then stumbled outside the house and eventually collapsed on the sidewalk.

The chief said there was no evidence of forced entry at Wolls home and there were no signs that she tried to defend herself.

He added that investigators are trying to establish a timeline of the days and hours leading to Wolls death.

Governor mourns death of beloved community leader

Wednesday 25 October 2023 04:00 , Andrea Blanco

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer paid tribute to Woll.

My heart breaks for her family, her friends, her synagogue, and all those who were lucky enough to know her. She was a source of light, a beacon in her community who worked hard to make Michigan a better place, she said in a statement.

Funeral held for Detroit synagogue president stabbed to death at her home

Wednesday 25 October 2023 03:00 , Andrea Blanco

A funeral has been held for the synagogue president who was found stabbed to death at her home in Detroit.

Samantha Woll, 40, was discovered at 6.30am on Saturday by emergency personnel who pronounced her dead at the scene.

Funeral held for Detroit synagogue president stabbed to death at home

WATCH: nvestigation ongoing into killing of Detroit synagogue president Samantha Woll

Wednesday 25 October 2023 02:00 , Andrea Blanco

Hours before she was found dead just outside her home, Samantha Woll had attended a wedding, police say

Wednesday 25 October 2023 01:00 , Andrea Blanco

Detroit Police Chief James E. White said police know Woll  who led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue  attended a wedding Friday night and that she left the celebration around 12.30am.

By all accounts, she was not in any discomfort, she was her normal pleasant self, Chief White told reporters on Monday.

Who was slain Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll?

Wednesday 25 October 2023 00:00 , Andrea Blanco

Woll led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue since 2022.

She has been remembered by loved ones as a leader who worked to unite people through her interfaith work. Dawud Walid, president of the Council on American Islamic Relationss Michigan chapter, called Wolls death a tragic loss and praised her efforts to unite the Jewish and Muslim communities in Detroit.

We are troubled by the apparent homicide of Samantha Woll, a beloved leader within her faith community in Metro Detroit, Mr Walid said in a statement. We also send our sincere condolences to her family and friends and to the Detroit Jewish community as a whole for the tragic loss.

According to a 2017 article by The Detroit Jewish News, Woll was instrumental in the founding of the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit, an alliance that helps build bonds between Jewish and Muslim youth.

By extending her hand and creating space for connection between Muslims and Jews, she has exemplified the values of healing the world, the article read.

(Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue)

More than 1,000 people attended Wolls funeral on Sunday, the Detroit Free Press reports. Senator Stephanie Chang and AG Nessell were among the attendees who delivered heartfelt eulogies during the service.

Sam did more for our community, our state, our world, our lives in her short time here on Earth than most will ever accomplish in 1,000 lifetimes, Ms Nessel said in her eulogy, according to The New York Times.

Sen Chang also said that Woll had devoted her time to listening to Muslim and Jewish members of her community following the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel. Meanwhile, Wolls sister Monica Woll Rosen shared with mourners how the slain synagogue president fought for everyone.

You sent hearts to cheer people up and let them know youre thinking of them  because you cared, Ms Woll Rosen said, revealing that a friend of her late sister had received flowers from her on the day of her death, according to The New York Post.

That was you, Sam, Ms Woll Rosen added. You didnt even ask. You just sent flowers and signed 10 other peoples names because you knew it would make the receiver happy  and the others would have wanted to say happy birthday if they knew it was your birthday.

Politicians mourn Samantha Wolls death

Tuesday 24 October 2023 20:47 , Andrea Blanco

Woll was a well-known figure in Michigan politics, working for Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and on the re-election campaign of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, also a Democrat.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer paid tribute to Woll.

My heart breaks for her family, her friends, her synagogue, and all those who were lucky enough to know her. She was a source of light, a beacon in her community who worked hard to make Michigan a better place, she said in a statement.

Rep Slotkin also paid tribute in a statement on X: She did for our team as Deputy District Director what came so naturally to her: helping others & serving constituents. Separately, in politics & in the Jewish community, she dedicated her short life to building understanding across faiths, bringing light in the face of darkness.

Nessel said that she was shocked, saddened and horrified.

WATCH: Detroit police say it is close to arresting the suspect in Jewish leader's killing

Tuesday 24 October 2023 20:06 , Andrea Blanco

Samantha Wolls neighbour reveals disturbing incident around time of murder

Tuesday 24 October 2023 19:02 , Andrea Blanco

A couple who lives near the home where a Detroit synagogue leader was killed over the weekend has revealed a disturbing incident that occurred around the time of the murder.

Samantha Woll, 40, was found stabbed to death at her home in the Lafayette neighbourhood in the early morning hours of Saturday. Police officials said that it is believed she was attacked inside the home and walked to the street before collapsing on the sidewalk.

Authorities have yet to name a suspect in the investigation, but Chief James White said during a press conference on Monday that several persons of interest are being interviewed. Neighbours of Woll have since come forward with reports that the two driver-side tires on their white Mercedes were slashed when they returned home on Sunday after leaving town for the weekend.

A neighbour, who asked not to be named, told Fox News that her car was parked just 200 feet away from Wolls home  and she and her husband have since notified law enforcement. When asked about the incident as he delivered updates on Monday, Chief White said that his office would be investigating the reports and whether it is connected to Wolls murder.

A spokesperson for the Detroit Police Department told The Independent on Tuesday that there are no updates in that regard.

Synagogue leader Samantha Wolls final text before stabbing death revealed

Tuesday 24 October 2023 18:10 , Andrea Blanco

The grieving sister of Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll has revealed her final text before she was stabbed to death over the weekend.

Authorities in Detroit continue investigating 40-year-old Wolls murder on 21 October as it emerged on Monday that several persons of interest are being interviewed by law enforcement.

Detroit Police Chief James White said Woll was attacked inside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood and then stumbled out of her residence before collapsing on the sidewalk, leaving behind a trail of blood that led investigators to the disturbing scene.

Woll, the president at Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, was laid to rest on Sunday during a service with more than 1,000 in attendance, including city and state politicians whom she had worked with. The slain community leaders sister Monica Woll Rosen delivered a eulogy, sharing with mourners that Wolls final text was a heart emoji sent to a friend.

You sent hearts to cheer people up and let them know youre thinking of them  because you cared, Ms Woll Rosen said, also revealing that a friend of her late sister had received flowers from her on the day of her death, according to The New York Post.

Samantha Wolls final text message revealed

Tuesday 24 October 2023 16:10 , Andrea Blanco

The final text message sent by Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll has been revealed before she was found murdered outside her home on Saturday.

Speaking at her funeral service on Sunday, Wolls family said that she had sent a heart emoji to a friend just because.

Not long later, at around 6.30am on Saturday morning, the 40-year-old leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue was found stabbed to death at her home.

What do we know about the stabbing?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 14:58 , Andrea Blanco

Law enforcement said that police received a 911 call reporting a person lying on the ground unresponsive around 6.30am on Saturday.

When officers arrived at the scene, they followed a trail of blood that led them to Wolls residence.

Woll was stabbed multiple times inside her home, Chief James White said on Monday.

It is believed she then stumbled outside the house and eventually collapsed on the sidewalk.

The chief said there was no evidence of forced entry at Wolls home and there were no signs that she tried to defend herself.

He added that investigators are trying to establish a timeline of the days and hours leading to Wolls death.

Samantha Wolls sister delivers heartfelt eulogy at funeral

Tuesday 24 October 2023 14:00 , Andrea Blanco

Samantha Wolls sister Monica Woll Rosen shared with mourners how the slain synagogue president fought for everyone.

You sent hearts to cheer people up and let them know youre thinking of them  because you cared, Ms Woll Rosen said, revealing that a friend of her late sister had received flowers from her on the day of her death, according to The New York Post.

That was you, Sam, Ms Woll Rosen added. You didnt even ask. You just sent flowers and signed 10 other peoples names because you knew it would make the receiver happy  and the others would have wanted to say happy birthday if they knew it was your birthday.

Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Wolls murder not motivated by antisemitism, police say

Tuesday 24 October 2023 13:00 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities probing the stabbing death of Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll have said there is no evidence suggesting her murder was motivated by antisemitism.

The Detroit Police Department, Michigan Police and the FBI continue investigating the brutal stabbing of Woll, 40, who was found dead outside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood on Saturday morning.

Woll, a former aide to Democratic Rep Elissa Slotkin and campaign staffer for Attorney General Dana Nessel, had led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue since 2022.

Law enforcement said that police received a call reporting a person lying on the ground unresponsive around 6.30am. When officers arrived at the scene, they followed a trail of blood that led them to Wolls residence.

Read more:

Detroit synagogue leaders murder not motivated by antisemitism, police say

Samantha Woll was instrumental in building bridges between communities

Tuesday 24 October 2023 12:00 , Andrea Blanco

According to a 2017 article by The Detroit Jewish News, Woll was instrumental in the founding of the Muslim-Jewish Forum of Detroit, an alliance that helps build bonds between Jewish and Muslim youth.

By extending her hand and creating space for connection between Muslims and Jews, she has exemplified the values of healing the world, the article read.

Dawud Walid, president of the Council on American Islamic Relationss Michigan chapter, called Wolls death a tragic loss and praised her efforts to unite the Jewish and Muslim communities in Detroit.

We are troubled by the apparent homicide of Samantha Woll, a beloved leader within her faith community in Metro Detroit, Mr Walid said in a statement. We also send our sincere condolences to her family and friends and to the Detroit Jewish community as a whole for the tragic loss.

DETROIT-SINAGOGA-PRESIDENTA (AP)

Detroit mayor issues heartfelt statement following death of Samantha Woll

Tuesday 24 October 2023 22:50 , Andrea Blanco

Mayor Mike Duggan issued a statement saying he was devastated to learn of Wolls death.

Sams loss has left a huge hole in the Detroit community, the mayor said. This entire city joins with her family and friends in mourning her tragic death.

Politicians mourn Samantha Wolls death

Tuesday 24 October 2023 11:00 , Andrea Blanco

Woll was a well-known figure in Michigan politics, working for Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and on the re-election campaign of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, also a Democrat.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer paid tribute to Woll.

My heart breaks for her family, her friends, her synagogue, and all those who were lucky enough to know her. She was a source of light, a beacon in her community who worked hard to make Michigan a better place, she said in a statement.

Rep Slotkin also paid tribute in a statement on X: She did for our team as Deputy District Director what came so naturally to her: helping others & serving constituents. Separately, in politics & in the Jewish community, she dedicated her short life to building understanding across faiths, bringing light in the face of darkness.

Nessel said that she was shocked, saddened and horrified.

Final text message of slain synagogue leader revealed

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:29 , Rachel Sharp

The final text message sent by Detroit synagogue leader Samantha Woll has been revealed before she was found murdered outside her home on Saturday.

Speaking at her funeral service on Sunday, Wolls family said that she had sent a heart emoji to a friend just because.

Not long later, at around 6.30am on Saturday morning, the 40-year-old leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue was found stabbed to death at her home.

WATCH: Jewish leader Samantha Woll laid to rest

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:00 , Andrea Blanco

Everything we know about Samantha Wolls stabbing

Tuesday 24 October 2023 09:00 , Andrea Blanco

Just a mile from the Michigan synagogue that she had led since last year, Samantha Wolls lifeless body was found in the early morning hours of Saturday. Outside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood, Detroit police officers followed a trail of blood to the disturbing scene.

The brutal stabbing of the beloved president at Isaac Agree Downtown synagogue has shocked the local community and city officials, who have remembered her as a beacon of light in the community who sought to build bridges between Jews and Muslims.

Few details about the murder will be released in order to protect the investigation, Chief James White said during a press conference on Monday, but the evidence suggests that the killing was not motivated by antisemitic sentiments.

Read more:

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death at home. Police have no idea why

Samanths Woll attended wedding hours before being killed, police say

Tuesday 24 October 2023 08:00 , Andrea Blanco

Detroit Police Chief James E. White said police know Woll  who led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue  attended a wedding Friday night and that she left the celebration around 12:30 a.m.

By all accounts, she was not in any discomfort, she was her normal pleasant self, Chief White told reporters.

Detroit synagogue president laid to rest

Tuesday 24 October 2023 07:00 , Andrea Blanco

A funeral has been held for the synagogue president who was found stabbed to death at her home in Detroit.

Samantha Woll, 40, was discovered at 6.30am on Saturday by emergency personnel who pronounced her dead at the scene.

Nick Ferris reports:

Funeral held for Detroit synagogue president stabbed to death at home

Police warn the public not to jump to conclusions

Tuesday 24 October 2023 06:00 , Andrea Blanco

The FBI is aware of the incident, and will assist the Detroit Police Department as requested, the agency said in a statement to CNN.

Detroit Police Department Chief James E White urged the public not to draw any conclusions until more facts were gathered.

Understandably, this crime leaves many unanswered questions. This matter is under investigation, and I am asking that everyone remain patient while investigators carefully examine every aspect of the available evidence, he said in a statement.

WATCH: Detroit Police Chief James White provides update on Samantha Woll murder

Tuesday 24 October 2023 05:00 , Andrea Blanco

Samantha Woll remembered for her interfaith work

Tuesday 24 October 2023 04:00 , Andrea Blanco

Woll led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue since 2022.

She has been remembered by loved ones as a leader who worked to unite people through her interfaith work. Dawud Walid, president of the Council on American Islamic Relationss Michigan chapter, called Wolls death a tragic loss and praised her efforts to unite the Jewish and Muslim communities in Detroit.

We are troubled by the apparent homicide of Samantha Woll, a beloved leader within her faith community in Metro Detroit, Mr Walid said in a statement. We also send our sincere condolences to her family and friends and to the Detroit Jewish community as a whole for the tragic loss.

Detroit police say they've identified several people of interest in synagogue president's killing

Tuesday 24 October 2023 03:00 , Andrea Blanco

Investigators have identified several people of interest in the fatal stabbing of a Detroit synagogue president but would not talk about their connections to the woman during a press conference Monday.

Authorities found 40-year-old Samantha Wolls body outside her home early Saturday after a caller told police about a person lying on the ground.

Detroit Police Chief James E. White said police know Woll  who led the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue  attended a wedding Friday night and that she left the celebration around 12.30am.

He said there was no sign that anyone forced their way into her home and investigators believe Woll was stabbed inside before stumbling into the yard.

We have a number of people that give us interest. We are just short of calling one of the people a suspect, he said, adding that investigators believe a suspect acted alone.

What do we know about the stabbing?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 02:00 , Andrea Blanco

Law enforcement said that police received a 911 call reporting a person lying on the ground unresponsive around 6.30am on Saturday.

When officers arrived at the scene, they followed a trail of blood that led them to Wolls residence.

Woll was stabbed multiple times inside her home, Chief James White said on Monday.

It is believed she then stumbled outside the house and eventually collapsed on the sidewalk.

The chief said there was no evidence of forced entry at Wolls home and there were no signs that she tried to defend herself.

He added that investigators are trying to establish a timeline of the days and hours leading to Wolls death.

Slain synagogue president Samantha Woll fought for everyone

Tuesday 24 October 2023 01:00 , Andrea Blanco

More than 1,000 people attended Wolls funeral on Sunday, the Detroit Free Press reports. Senator Stephanie Chang and AG Nessell were among the attendees who delivered heartfelt eulogies during the ceremony.

Sam did more for our community, our state, our world, our lives in her short time here on Earth than most will ever accomplish in 1,000 lifetimes, Ms Nessel said in her eulogy, according to The New York Times.

Sen Chang also said that Woll had devoted her time to listening to Muslim and Jewish members of her community following the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel.

Meanwhile, Wolls sister Monica Woll Rosen shared with mourners how the slain synagogue president fought for everyone.

Authorities believe that Samantha Wolls killer acted alone

Tuesday 24 October 2023 00:00 , Andrea Blanco

Chief James White said on Monday that his department is seeking a suspect believed to have acted alone, and noted he doesnt think there is a threat to the community at large.

He also asked the public to be patient and not jump to conclusions as evidence is reviewed and processed.

We are not in the position to discuss [details,] Chief White said. There are certain factors that are only shared by the suspect and our investigators.

Police ask for publics help in Samantha Wolls stabbing investigation

Monday 23 October 2023 23:00 , Andrea Blanco

Surveillance footage in the neighbourhood does not point directly at residences, making it difficult for investigators to determine who was in the vicinity of Wolls home around the time she was killed. However, the video could be used to determine travel routes, Chief White said.

Police have encouraged neighbours to reach out to investigators with any details they recall from the early morning hours of Saturday, no matter how small it may seem.

If they saw anything ... if they saw someone who is not known to the neighbourhood, someone who was there earlier in the week, or someone who was lurking around, certainly let us know, the chief said. Check your video cameras at home, share anything you know with us.

WATCH: Investigation ongoing into killing of Detroit synagogue president Samantha Woll

Monday 23 October 2023 21:47 , Andrea Blanco

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death in her home. Police have no idea why

Monday 23 October 2023 20:41 , Andrea Blanco

Authorities in Detroit believe that 40-year-old Samantha Woll was attacked inside her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood.

Woll, the president of Isaac Agree Downtown synagogue, left a trail of blood as she stumbled outside of her home and eventually collapsed on the sidewalk.

Andrea Blanco reports:

Synagogue leader Samantha Woll was stabbed to death at home. Police have no idea why
Columbia-Greene Media has recently teamed up with the US Postal Service to provide same-day delivery of your local newspaper with your mail. Our expanded daily delivery of your local news reaches into the following areas:
The redevelopment of the Tower and Porter Block on historic Eagle Street in North Adams has received a $250,000 grant from the state's Underutilized Properties Program.

Berkshires Gets $8M in State Economic Development Grants



The second phase of Blackinton infrastructure project in North Adams is being funded by a $2 million Massworks grant. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The state's Executive Office of Economic Development has announced $164 million in grant funding through the Community One Stop for Growth application portal, including $7,824,400 for Berkshire County.

North Adams received the highest amount in the county: $2.25 million for public and private development projects. Pittsfield is getting $540,000 for six projects and Cheshire, Dalton and Great Barrington up to $1 million each for road projects.

The grants were announced during a kickoff celebration at Suffolk Downs in Revere honoring recipients of awards through the MassWorks and HousingWorks grant programs, two of the largest programs in the One Stop. Revere is a recipient of a MassWorks award for the redevelopment of Suffolk Downs, as well as a Housing Choice program grant.

"One Stop is a vital economic development tool to spark growth, spur development and strengthen local economies across the state," said Gov. Maura Healey. "These funds will help make possible community-led projects that build vibrant downtowns and unlock economic potential in every region of Massachusetts, while creating new jobs, housing, and opportunity."

EOED received 783 applications in this funding round from 239 communities representing every region of the state. Of the 336 applications awarded, 26 percent are located in a rural or small town, 33 percent are located in a Gateway City, 61 percent are located in an Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority community, and 49 percent are located in a Housing Choice Community. EOED estimates the One Stop awards will help create more 8,000 new housing units across the state including 3,000 new affordable units, 10,000 new permanent jobs, and more than 5.4 million square feet of new commercial development.

The largest Berkshires grant was to North Adams in the form of $1.97 million through the Massworks Infrastructure program for continued infrastructure work in Blackinton . The months-long project is designed to improve stormwater drainage and prevent flooding near Ashton Avenue and has included culvert and bridge work. The initial funding of $2.4 million addressed the immediate infrastructure issues that have slowed attempts to redevelop the Blackinton Mill and included the installation of a 5-foot diameter stormwater pipe between Ashton Avenue and Wood Street.

This second phase addresses the city-owned former tannery site as landscaped greenspace and as a new parking area for the Blackinton Mill and public recreation amenities. This public work has been considered critical to enabling the private redevelopment of the mill as part of the Tourists resort. Tourists is proposing a $17 million overhaul of the century-old mill in to 50 hotel rooms, a restaurant and reception space.

Eagle Street Holdings Inc., with principal Veselko Buntic, is getting $250,000 from the Underutilized Properties Program for the redevelopment of the Tower and Porter Block on historic Eagle Street into nine units of market-rate housing and two commercial units. Funds will be used for the engineering, purchase, and installation of HVAC systems throughout the entire building.

Wheel Estates Tenants Association has been granted $30,000 from HousingWorks Infrastructure Program in partnership with city for a Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Report (PER/ER) to consider several infrastructure upgrades vital to the health and safety of the community of nearly 200 manufactured homes.

Pittsfield's grants include $50,000 each for a Berkshire Innovation Center "node" at Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art in North Adams (Collaborative Workspace); for the Downtown Pittsfield Cultural Association for activating community spaces with lighting, especially for Festive Frolic and 10x10 Upstreet arts festivals (Commonwealth Places); and planning for the city's downtown housing program (Community Planning).

Also in Pittsfield, AM Management LLC is getting $200,000 through Underutilized Properties to convert a 20,000-square-foot office building on Wendell Avenue into 28 units of mixed-income housing of which eight will be affordable; Blackshires Community Empowerment Foundation Corp. $100,000 for its Leadership Program Accelerator; and Berkshire Regional Planning Commission $90,000 toward planning a pipeline to prepare municipal employees.
Mature native trees across a 3.8 hectare site have been cleared to make way for a new green solar energy project, sparking an uproar over the seemingly "contradictory" act.

In an image shared anonymously online last week, remnants of eucalyptus trees can be seen piled behind a high fence at La Trobe University in Victoria. The post led to hundreds of reactions on social media, with many questioning the decision to remove the trees as doing so releases carbon into the environment.

"Crazy logic," one person wrote. "Something seems off here," another mused. Others questioned why the solar panels hadn't instead been placed on rooftops or above car parks.

Trees have been cleared across a 3.8 hectare site to make way for a new solar farm at LaTrobe University. Source: Facebook

La Trobe University responds to concerns about tree felling

The clearing was undertaken at La Trobe Universitys Bundoora Campus in Melbourne's north to create the states largest urban solar farm  a 4300 panel, 2.9 megawatt energy system.

A spokesperson for the university told Yahoo News Australia the solar farm is being built to help it achieve net zero emissions by 2029.

Because the site was cleared during bird breeding season, there has been some community concern about the welfare of wildlife that had been living at the site. While LaTrobe did not respond directly to a question from Yahoo News about what fauna had been utilising the site, it said a zoologist was engaged to survey the site.

It was found that there was little indication of native fauna at the site, the zoologist captured and rehomed them to the nearest suitable habitat, it said.

Discover more of our environment coverage. (Discover more of our environment coverage.)

University says project site was 'full of weeds'

Addressing opposition to the removal of such large trees, LaTrobe said none of them had special significance.

A biodiversity assessment of the site determined that the existing trees and vegetation had limited biodiversity value. The vegetation was self-sown, full of weeds, it said.

Story continues

While the university has not disclosed how many mature trees it cleared, it says it plans to add 40,000 plants and over 600 trees to improve the biodiversity of the site.

This isn't the first time this year trees at the university campus have become the subject of concern. In August, LaTrobe stepped in to axe a plan by its building manager to chop down a 400-year-old tree next to one of its buildings.

LaTrobe University plans to construct 4300 solar panels at its Bundoora campus. Source: LaTrobe

Other 'green' energy projects sparking concern across Australia

LaTrobe University's solar farm is one of several green energy projects to spark controversy in Australia this year.

In Far North Queensland hundreds of hectares of threatened species habitat is earmarked for destruction by energy companies planning to build large-scale wind farms.

The issue made headlines in April when tech giant Apple boldly pulled out of a $1 billion wind farm project associated with mining mogul Andrew "Twiggy" Forrest, because of concerns about its impact on endangered koalas and gliders.

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new weekly newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
Author's note: Since The Citizens editor is concerned that some creative writing may be behind this news article, David Connelly has had to fess up to having something to do with writing it.

The looming Halloween and the anniversary of Thomas Mott Osbornes death on Friday, Oct. 20, 1926, were too much for an escapee of the Auburn Womens Prison. Pictured is her holding David Connelly of Auburn hostage, forcing him to smile and stand with her beside Osbornes statue out front of the Auburn police headquarters.

Better known to the public as Joyce Hackett-Smith, the escapee got away with yet another of her daring feats. Her penname is familiar as a frequent Citizen letter-writer.

Connelly, whom she eventually released unharmed but embarrassed, is the author of a forthcoming book, Rattling the Cages: The Incredible Hope of Thomas Mott Osborne. Connellys abduction only slowed his search for a publisher, he told a reporter confidentially.

Osborne served as Auburns mayor and president of the school board. Before making himself the most famous prison reformer of the age, he was an education and political leader. He became the No. 1 foe of Tammany Hall, New York Citys political gang, according to The New York Times. He sensationally ended the political career of the fabulously rich and notorious William Randolph Hearst. Osborne was 54 years old when he finally turned to prison reform.

No man in all prison history, the New York Citys commissioner of corrections said at the unveiling of the statue 80 years ago, ever influenced so many prisoners for good, ever brought light into so many dark lives, ever gave so many so-called bad men a desire to be good men.

The bronze, 11-foot statue was ceremonially unveiled on June 11, 1936. It was initially on Auburns East High School grounds, now the Auburn Junior High School on Franklin Street. The New York commissioner was Austin MacCormick. During World War I, as a young naval officer, MacCormick had been Lt. Cmdr. Osbornes first officer running the Navys prison.

The pair turned the huge prison from a mere scrap-heap into one of humanitys repair-shops, as the U.S. naval secretary put it. The pair transformed thousands of the Navys miscreants, restoring them to duty to help win the war. It was another historical first.

Osborne succeeded because of his belief in the good in man, MacCormick added, obviously never encountering Hackett-Smith. MacCormick also never heard Osborne talk to a prisoner about religion, though he did consider himself a practicing Christian. To most of the felons, he was a religion. Osborne changed prison methods from one end of the country to the other, MacCormick said. Twenty-first-century historians will agree.

In this rare photograph, the statue places the vicious escapee Hackett-Smith just out of the line of sight from police headquarters. Dont be fooled by her smile. She is dangerous, as Connelly attests.

The idea of a erecting a statue came from Osbornes ex-felons. It was the first time any ex-con ever raised a statue to his jailer, the Associated Press reported MacCormick saying.

Seven sculptors competed to design the statue. Men imprisoned around the country were polled, and nearly all who responded chose the design of a New York City sculptor, Vincenzo Miserendino. His signature is on the statue.

In the right hand of the statue are handcuffs. In its left hand are a new prison guard coat and a book, a symbol of hope inspired by the Mutual Welfare League, Osbornes reform system. Twenty-three figures make up a sculptural narration around the statues base. The first pushes a boulder bare-chested. The last faces a new day alongside a woman, child, and pet dog, the sun rising over a mountain.

Todays prison escapee, Hackett-Smith smiled wistfully at the dog as she turned to seek new shelter. She was heard muttering, Soon Ill have a dog of my own.
Offboarded employees often retain access to work information. What are the risks, and how to deal with them?

All large companies have formal processes for both onboarding and offboarding. These include granting access to corporate IT systems after hiring, and revoking said access during offboarding. In practice, the latter is far less effective  with departing employees often retaining access to work information. What are the risks involved, and how to avoid them?

"It makes sense for companies to spend a lot of time and attention on the onboarding process for new hires. With the shift to hybrid or remote work environments though, having an offboarding strategy is now as critical as when an employee joins a company. Otherwise, the company is exposing itself to a great risk, cybersecurity-wise---whether it's accidental or intentional, " says Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.

How access gets forgotten

New employees are granted access to the systems they need for their jobs. Over time, these accesses accumulate, but theyre not always issued centrally, and the process itself is by no means always standardized. Direct management might give access to systems without notifying the IT department, while chats in messenger apps or document-exchange systems get created ad hoc within a department. Poorly controlled access of this kind is almost certain not to be revoked from an offboarded employee.

Here are some typical scenarios in which IT staff may overlook access revocation:

The company uses a SaaS system (Ariba, Concur, Salesforce, Slack there are thousands of them) thats accessed by entering a username and password entered by the employee at first log in. And it isnt integrated with the corporate employee directory.

Employees share a common password for a particular system. (The reason may be saving money by using just one subscription or lacking a full multi-user architecture in a system.) When one of them is offboarded, no one bothers to change the password.

A corporate system allows login using a mobile phone number and a code sent by text. Problems arise if an offboarded employee keeps the phone number they used for this purpose.

Access to some systems requires being bound to a personal account. For example, administrators of corporate pages on social media often get access by assigning the corresponding role to a personal account, so this access needs to be revoked in the social network as well.

Last but not least is the problem of shadow IT. Any system that employees started using and run by themselves is bound to fall outside standard inventory, password control and other procedures. Most often, offboarded employees retain the ability to perform collaborative editing in Google Docs, manage tasks in Trello or Basecamp, share files via Dropbox and similar file-hosting services, as well as access work and semi-work chats in messenger apps. That said, pretty much any system could end up in the list.

The danger of unrevoked access

Depending on the role of the employee and the circumstances of their departure, unrevoked access can create the following risks:

The offboarded employees accounts can be used by a third party for cyberattacks on the company. A variety of scenarios are possible here  from business email compromise to unauthorized entry to corporate systems and data theft. Since the departed employee no longer uses these accounts, such activity is likely to go unnoticed for a long time. Forgotten accounts may also use weak passwords and lack two-factor authentication, which simplifies their takeover. No surprise, then, that forgotten accounts are becoming very popular targets for cybercriminals.

The offboarded employee might continue to use accounts for personal gain (accessing the customer base to get ahead in a new job; or using corporate subscriptions to third-party paid services).

There could be a leak of confidential information (for example, if business documents are synchronized with a folder on the offboarded employees personal computer). Whether the employee deliberately retained this access to steal documents or it was just plain forgetfulness makes little difference. Either way, such a leak creates long-term risks for the company.

If the departure was acrimonious, the offboarded employee may use their access to inflict damage.

Additional headaches: staff turnover, freelancing, subcontractors

Keeping track of SaaS systems and shadow IT is already a handful, but the situation is made worse by the fact that not all company offboarding processes are properly formalized.

An additional risk factor is freelancers. If they were given some kind of access as part of a project, its extremely unlikely that IT will promptly revoke it  or even know about it  when the contract expires.

Contracting companies likewise pose a danger. If a contractor fires one employee and hires another, often the old credentials are simply given to the new person, rather than deleted and replaced with new ones. Theres no way that your IT service will know about the change in personnel.

In companies with seasonal employees or just a high turnover in certain positions, theres often no full-fledged centralized on/offboarding procedure  just to simplify the business operation. Therefore, you cant assume theyll perform an onboarding briefing or operate a comprehensive offboarding checklist. Employees in these jobs often use the same password to access internal systems, which can even be written on a Post-It right next to the computer or terminal.

How to take control

The administrative aspect is key. Below are a few measures that significantly mitigate the risk:

Regular access audits. Carry out periodic audits to determine what employees have access to. The audit should identify accesses that are no longer current or were issued unintentionally or outside of standard procedures, and revoke them as necessary. For audits, a technical analysis of the infrastructure is not enough. In addition, surveys of employees and their managers should be carried out in one form or another. This will also help bring shadow IT out of the shadows and in line with company policies.

Carry out periodic audits to determine what employees have access to. The audit should identify accesses that are no longer current or were issued unintentionally or outside of standard procedures, and revoke them as necessary. For audits, a technical analysis of the infrastructure is not enough. In addition, surveys of employees and their managers should be carried out in one form or another. This will also help bring shadow IT out of the shadows and in line with company policies. Close cooperation between HR and IT during offboarding. Departing employees should be given an exit interview. Besides questions important for HR (satisfaction with the job and the company; feedback about colleagues), this should include IT issues (request a complete list of systems that the employee used on a daily basis; ensure that all work information is shared with colleagues and not left on personal devices, etc.). The offboarding process usually involves signing documents imposing responsibility on the departing employee for disclosure or misuse of such information. In addition to the employee, its advisable to interview their colleagues and management so that IT and InfoSec are fully briefed on all their accounts and accesses.

Departing employees should be given an exit interview. Besides questions important for HR (satisfaction with the job and the company; feedback about colleagues), this should include IT issues (request a complete list of systems that the employee used on a daily basis; ensure that all work information is shared with colleagues and not left on personal devices, etc.). The offboarding process usually involves signing documents imposing responsibility on the departing employee for disclosure or misuse of such information. In addition to the employee, its advisable to interview their colleagues and management so that IT and InfoSec are fully briefed on all their accounts and accesses. Creation of standard roles in the company. This measure combines technical and organizational aspects. For each position and each type of work, you can draw up a template set of accesses to be issued during onboarding and revoked during offboarding. This lets you create a role-based access control (RBAC) system and greatly simplify the work of IT.

Technical measures to facilitate access control and increase the overall level of information security:
Dan Cummings, a Cayuga County native best known for his 37-year career at NewsChannel 9 in Syracuse, has been inducted into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Cummings is one of five members of the 2023 class that was honored Thursday during a luncheon at the Rainbow Room at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City. He joins other Syracuse-area broadcasters, including Nancy Duffy, Rick Gary, Carrie Lazarus, Ted Long, Wayne Mahar, Amy Robbins, Jackie Robinson and Rod Wood in the hall of fame.

A King Ferry native, Cummings graduated from Southern Cayuga High School. He attended SUNY Geneseo, where he worked at the campus radio stations. His broadcasting career started in radio at stations in Ithaca, Rochester and Syracuse.

Cummings moved to television with the help of Bill Carey, an Auburn native and legendary central New York journalist. Carey was at NewsChannel 9 in Syracuse when he hired Cummings to be an assignment editor.

In more than three decades at NewsChannel 9, Cummings held various positions, including managing editor, news director and reporter. He won numerous awards, including two Emmys for stories about central New York veterans and a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for best news documentary in recognition of a story about Marianne Cope and Kateri Tekakwitha, two canonized saints.

The Syracuse Press Club named Cummings to its Wall of Distinction in 2018.

Cummings anchored NewsChannel 9's morning news broadcast, hosted "Newsmakers," a public affairs show, and moderated political debates. He retired in 2021.

Bill Evans, vice president and general manager of NewsChannel 9, congratulated Cummings on his induction into the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

"Dan had an amazing broadcast career and now joins this prestigious group of broadcasters who are recognized for their many contributions to their communities and to the broadcasting industry," Evans said.
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Hasan Minhaj has denied using fake racism to further his stand-up career.

In September, The New Yorker published a profile titled Hasan Minhajs emotional truths, which included quotes from the comedian, 38, revealing that certain details of his stand-up routines had been exaggerated and fabricated.

He was asked about several anecdotes used in his comedy. One, in particular, included a story told in his 2017 Netflix special Homecoming King about the time his prom dates parents spurned him, saying that they didnt want their daughter to take pictures with a brown boy.

Minhaj admitted that while the scenario hadnt happened, the storys emotional truth justified the fabricated elements.

After the article was released, numerous outlets picked up the story. Questions about Minhajs public persona were raised, as well as whether comedians should be more truthful with their material.

Now, in a 20-minute-long video, Minhaj has addressed the New Yorker article, apologising to fans and viewers who may have felt let down by the artistic choices in his stand-up.

With everything thats happening in the world, Im aware even talking about this now feels so trivial, the comedian said in the video. But being accused of faking racism is not trivial. Its very serious, and it demands an explanation.

Film Spirit Awards - Hasan Minhaj (2019 Invision)

To everyone who read that article, he continued, I want to answer the biggest question thats probably on your mind: Is Hasan Minhaj secretly a psycho? Underneath all that pomp, is Hasan Minhaj just a con artist who uses fake racism and Islamophobia to advance his career? Because after reading that article, I would also think that.

He explained that he took a beat to process the criticism generated from the article. I just want to say to anyone who felt betrayed or hurt by my stand-up, I am sorry. I made artistic choices to express myself and drive home larger issues affecting me and my community, and I feel horrible that I let people down, Minhaj added.

The reason I feel horrible is because Im not a psycho. But this New Yorker article definitely made me look like one. It was so needlessly misleading, not just about my stand-up, but also about me as a person. The truth is, racism, FBI surveillance and the threats to my family happened. And I said this on the record.

Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up

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A spokesperson for The New Yorker told The Hollywood Reporter that their piece was carefully reported and fact-checked, and includes Hasan Minhajs perspective at length.

Hasan Minhaj confirmes in this video that he selectively presents information and embellishes to make a point: exactly what was reported, a New Yorker spokesperson said in a statement to The Independent.

Our piece, they continue, is based on interviews with more than twenty people, including former Patriot Act and Daily Show staffers; members of Minhajs security team; and people who have been the subject of his standup work, including the former FBI informant Brother Eric and the woman at the centre of his prom-rejection story. We stand by our story.
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A Chinese brand has launched an investigation after a man was seen urinating into a vat at a Tsingtao beer factory.

A shocking video which has been viewed tens of millions of times on social media shows a man dressed in blue overalls and a helmet climbing into a malt container at the beer factory in Pingdu, China on 19 October.

He then proceeded to urinate into the vat.

Tsingtao, which describes itself as the sixth-largest global beer maker and Chinas second-biggest brewery, said they have completely sealed the batch of malt in question.

They said in a statement: Our company attaches high importance to the relevant video that emerged from Tsingtao Brewery No. 3 on 19 October.

We reported the incident to the police at the earliest opportunity, and public security organisations are involved in the investigation.

At present, the batch of malt in question has been completely sealed. The company continues to strengthen its management procedures and ensure product quality.

A Tsingtao source was quoted by Chinese media outlet Yicai that the worker and the person who shot the video were not directly employed by the brewery.

Chinese beer brand Tsingtaohas launched an investigation after a man was seen urinating into a vat at a brewery factory (REUTERS)

Originally posted on the Chinese microblogging platform Weibo, users have had varied responses to the clip as one joked: Ive always said the beer here is like horse pee. Turns out I was wrong.

Others have jumped to the brewerys defence, as one user posted: I suggest the company takes this man to court and gets him to pay compensation for the damages.

The company, however, also said that its production and operations remained fully functioning. At present, the production and operation of the company are normal in every respect, the statement said.

But the viral video has damaged the Tsingtao beer business since the footage became public, according to local media reports.

South Korean newspaper JoongAng Daily reported that several Chinese restaurants in the country were now seeking reimbursements for Tsingtao beer shipments. However, the South Korean distributor of the beer declined these refund requests.

A man was seen urinating into a vat at a Tsingtao beer factory in Pingdu, China (Independent TV)

I asked if we could get a refund for the Tsingtao beer we already bought, but [the importers representative] said thats not possible, the newspaper quoted a restaurant employee in Seoul as saying.

According to Statistics Korea, China ranks as the second-largest beer supplier to South Korea after Japan.

After the viral video, Tsingtao Brewerys shares experienced a notable decline at the Shanghai Stock Exchange on Monday but reports said that it managed to recover by the afternoon session. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, where the company is also listed, remained closed on Monday due to a public holiday.
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The US, South Korea, and Japan strongly condemned the supply of military equipment by North Korea to Russia and said these deliveries would significantly increase the human toll of Moscows war against Ukraine.

The US and its Asian allies said in a joint statement they could now confirm that such weapons deliveries have taken place between the two countries which are isolated on the world stage.

The condemnation came amid increasing speculation of an arms deal between Russia and North Korea following a number of high-profile visits between the diplomats and leaders of both the countries.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the top diplomats of the three countries.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov denied the allegations that Russia was receiving munitions from North Korea, claiming instead that Washington has failed to prove the charge.

Both countries have increasingly sought to rely on each other as Russias invasion of Ukraine approached its second winter.

Seoul, Washington, and Tokyo said they were closely monitoring any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of Kim Jong-uns military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said.

The joint condemnation signed by South Korean foreign minister Park Jin, US secretary of state Antony Blinken, and Japanese foreign minister Yoko Kamikawa also underscored that arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un shakes hands with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov during a meeting in Pyongyang (via REUTERS)

Earlier this year, the North Korean leader had visited Russia and met Mr Putin in the most prominent sign that the countries were looking to prop up their regimes by supporting each other by sharing military hardware and technology.

The talks reportedly focused on an arms deal in exchange for technological support to Pyongyangs fledgling space programme.

Just last week, Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov also visited Pyongyang and met the North Korean leader. Both leaders praised the ties between their countries that they said had increased to a new level.

Mr Lavrov said in a reception speech that Moscow deeply valued Pyongyangs unwavering and principled support for Russia in the war.

The meeting was seen as groundwork for a potential second summit between Mr Kim and Mr Putin after the Kremlin leader accepted the invitation to travel to North Korea at a convenient time.

Analysts have said the two countries have been forced to turn to each other as they have been isolated on the world stage.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, and Russian president Vladimir Putin talk at the Vostochny cosmodrome outside the city of Tsiolkovsky, about 200 kilometers (125 miles) from the city of Blagoveshchensk in the far eastern Amur region, Russia, on 13 September 2023

North Koreas supply of its arsenal holds importance for Moscow as it has been going through artillery shells, missiles and other munitions for its Ukraine invasion.

This comes as Moscows domestic production has struggled to keep up with biting Western sanctions as Ukraine has unleashed a months-long counteroffensive that has been rolling on since June.

Earlier this month, the White House claimed North Korea delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia.

The White House released satellite images it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

A US think-tank had last month shared satellite images showing continued activity around a North Korean port near Russia. It captured at least six trips by sea between North Koreas port of Rajin and Russias Dunai port since late August.

These shipments were possibly related to the transfer of North Korean munitions to Russia, the Washington-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies had said.
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Indias high commission in Canada has decided to ease some of its visa restrictions for Canadians a month after a diplomatic row between both countries over the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

The High Commission of India in Ottawa said in a statement released on Wednesday the commission and its consulate generals in Vancouver and Toronto decided to resume visa services after a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some recent Canadian measures.

The decision to resume services came a month after New Delhi temporarily suspended these services for Canadian citizens due to security threats to its consulates amid a furious diplomatic spat over the killing of Nijjar.

Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said they suspended all categories of visas, including e-visas, for Canadian citizens applying from third countries.

On Wednesday, the high commission of India in Ottawa said that it was resuming business, medical and conference visas, as well as entry for people with family ties in India, starting from 26 October.

However, restrictions appear to be in place for tourists, students, journalists, and missionary visa applicants, the local media reported.

Further decisions, as appropriate, would be intimated based on continuing evaluation of the situation, the statement said.

Canada had also advised its citizens in India to remain vigilant and exercise caution in an update to its travel advisory for the country.

The easing of the visa ban on Wednesday came days after Canada said it was recalling 41 of its 62 diplomats in India. Canada was forced to recall its officials recently after Delhi threatened to strip diplomatic immunity of its staff, Ottawa said.

Canadian foreign minister Melanie Joly said Indias demand to Canada to withdraw its diplomats was unreasonable and in violation of international law on diplomatic relations, a criticism rejected by India.

The diplomatic crisis between New Delhi and Ottawa began earlier in September when Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the killing of Nijjar in British Columbia.

CTV News reported that Canadas immigration minister Marc Miller called the resumption of visa services a good sign after an anxious time for many Canadians.

Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place, he added.

Harjit Sajjan, Emergency Preparedness minister said: Its good to see that they have resumed that (visa services). It would have been nice (if) they didnt take it in the first place.

There was a Canadian thats killed on Canadian soil, and weve been asking for greater cooperation with the investigation, he added.

Victor Thomas, the Canada-India Business Council head, said it was a promising development for trade. It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times.
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A senior doctor says 14 children who received blood transfusions at hospitals in northern India contracted hepatitis and HIV infections.

The children, aged between six and 16 years, were all being treated for thalassemia, a condition that affects the bodys ability to produce haemoglobin and healthy blood cells.

The 14 cases were found during screening tests at the Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital (LLRH) in Kanpur city, Uttar Pradesh, according to the head of the paediatrics department at the hospital Arun Arya, who spoke to the Hindustan Times earlier this week.

Dr Arya told the newspaper that of 180 patients screened, seven tested positive for hepatitis B, five for hepatitis C and two for HIV.

The medical college attached to the LLRH hospital has denied the report, calling it baseless, and said Dr Arya was not authorised to speak to the media.

According to Dr Aryas statement to the newspaper, the 14 children had been treated at various facilities across the state before their infections were revealed during the central screening at LLRH.

The children are already battling a serious issue and are now at a greater health risk, he was quoted as saying.

Dr Arya said while it is hard to pinpoint the origin of the infections, it could have been the result of ineffective screening tests carried out on donated blood.

We have referred the hepatitis patients to the gastroenterology department and the HIV patients to the referral centre in Kanpur, Dr Arya said.

He said the children should have been vaccinated against hepatitis B at the time of transfusion.

At a press conference, Dr Sanjay Kala, the principal of the Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Medical College that is affiliated with LLRH, said not even a single patient with HIV or hepatitis infection has been found here since 2019.

A letter has been sent to the state government requesting disciplinary action against him, Dr Kala said of Dr Arya, who was present at the press conference but did not speak.

So far, not a single thalassaemic patient has got infected because of the transfusion done in LLRH, said Dr Kala.

The reports earlier this week sparked a wave of criticism directed at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state, with opposition political leaders calling out chief minister Yogi Adityanaths government.

The chief of Congress, the countrys main opposition party, called the allegations an unforgivable crime.

The double-engine government has made our health system doubly sick. In a government hospital in Kanpur, UP, infected blood was given to 14 children suffering from thalassemia, due to which these children got serious diseases like HIV AIDS and hepatitis B, C, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said.

This serious negligence is shameful.

Akhilesh Yadav, a former Uttar Pradesh chief minister who leads the opposition Samajwadi Party, demanded an investigation and strict punishment for those responsible.

It is a very serious matter that 14 children got infected with HIV and hepatitis due to transfusion of infected blood in Uttar Pradesh. This negligence should be immediately investigated and such a fatal mistake should be punished strictly, he said.

The Independent has reached out to the hospital authorities for comment.
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The future of Heathrow Airports expansion is in the hands of the private sector, a minister has suggested.

Transport minister Jesse Norman told the Commons the third runway at the west London airport, which has been delayed by legal challenges and the Covid pandemic, still had the in principle support of Parliament.

But he added it now required Heathrow to come forward with its plans and funding.

Asked for an update on the airports third runway, Mr Norman told the Commons: As the House will know, Parliament has voted in principle to support a third runway at London Heathrow, but the Government has always been clear that this Heathrow expansion remains a private sector project.

To go ahead it would be required to meet strict criteria on air quality, noise and climate change, as well as being privately financed.

It is for any scheme promoter to decide when it submits a development consent order application as part of the statutory planning process.

Sir Robert Goodwill, the Conservative MP for Scarborough and Whitby, insisted there was an important role for regional airports in the Governments levelling up agenda, but added that Heathrows expansion was needed to unlock this.

He asked: Would the minister agree with me to deliver true global connectivity we need more slots for regional airports into our national hub, and ultimately that will mean more tarmac on the ground at Heathrow?

Mr Norman agreed regional airports were vital to the UK, adding: It nevertheless is the case that as Heathrow considers its expansion plans it will need to decide when to take those forward, and when it does so I hope it will bear the very important issue of regional connectivity in mind.

The Heathrow expansion has garnered cross-party support from Parliament in the past, though MPs with constituencies neighbouring the airport have expressed concerns about the plans.

Former Tory prime minister Boris Johnson voiced strong opposition to the third runway when he was the MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, pledging in 2015 that he would lie in front of the bulldozers if expansion went ahead.

Outgoing Heathrow airport boss John Holland-Kaye recently insisted a third runway at the major air hub is vital for the UK to have a thriving, healthy economy.

The airports new chief executive Thomas Woldbye is expected to consider the project in consultation with others before providing an update.
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Hurricane Otis made landfall close to Acapulco, Mexico in the early hours of Wednesday after rapidly intensifying from a Category 1 to Category 5 storm in just 12 hours.

The hurricane had weakened to a Cat-2 and was moving inland by Wednesday afternoon. The storm is now around 100 miles northwest of Acapulco.

It is expected lose even more power as it hits Guerrero states steep mountains, before dissipating on Wednesday night.

The Mexican government discontinued a hurricane warning for Acapulco but issued a tropical storm warning for Punta Maldonado, around 100 miles to the south.

Heavy rain from Otis will continue to impact areas of southwest Mexico across Guerrero and Oaxaca states, and may also cause life-threatening coastal flooding through Thursday, NHC said.

The Mexican army and navy deployed more than 8,000 troops to Guerrero, an impoverished state plagued by violence linked to organized crime, with specialised equipment to aid in rescues.

Otis strengthened from a tropical storm into a major hurricane in the span of 12 hours on Tuesday before it hit Mexicos south Pacific coast at around 12.25am local time with sustained winds of 165 mph, the National Hurricane Center said.

Loading....

Forecasters warned that the powerful storm was a nightmare scenario for Acapulco, a faded resort town which is home to nearly 1 million people.

The citys mayor said Otis may be more devastating than Hurricane Pauline, which hit Acapulco in 1997, killing more than 200 people and injuring hundreds of others.

Winds howled through hotels and a hospital in Acapulco as citizens tried to take cover. Video footage from the scence showed palm trees stripped of their leaves and a shopping center badly damaged. Half a million people were left without power.

With reporting from The Associated Press
 Close Acapulco left decimated after Hurricane Otis

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Fears are growing for the four people missing in Acapulco after a nightmare Category-5 hurricane ripped through the city.

At least 27 people are dead and four people are missing after Hurricane Otis brought 165mph winds and torrential rainfall to Acapulco on Wednesday.

Flora Contreras Santos, a housewife who lives on the outskirts of the city, told of her fear after her three-year-old neighbor was swept away from her mother in a mudslide.

The mountain came down on them. The mud took her from the mothers arms, she told the Associated Press. We need help, the mother is in bad shape and we cant find the girl.

Meanwhile, Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado Pineda announced the establishment of a WhatsApp line to help people contact their families after communications went down in Acapulco on Wednesday.

Otis is the strongest ever storm to make landfall on Mexicos west coast. The hurricane underwent explosive intensification from a Category 1 to Category 5 in just 12 hours, catching forecasters by surprise. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) described it as a nightmare scenario for the region.
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Tall Girl star Ava Michelle has been applauded for speaking out about why she got a nose job.

The actor, 21, shared a video to Instagram on 24 October about the procedure, as footage showed her nose being examined by celebrity facial plastic surgeon, Dr Carl Truesdale. Michelle spoke to the camera with tears in her eyes, as she explained that she got the rhinoplasty procedure done for both medical and cosmetic reasons. She specified that she had issues breathing through her nose over the years and that it was going to be great to be able to do so now.

Being insecure about something thats on your face, I feel like is very hard, she said. When I post on social media, I try to not show my profile, so its obviously a thing Im insecure about.

Michelle recalled that she first developed a bump on [her] nose in her early teens, which is something that she doesnt like. Truesdale said that Michelle had concerns about breathing and the aesthetic of her nose and described her appearance before the surgery. He specified that her septum was deviated off the left side of her nostril, which was blocking the air from being able to move.

As she expressed how grateful she was to work with Truesdale, she described the medical issues she had before her nose job in the caption of her post.

Ever since I was little, Ive had an issue with breathing and my stamina, especially growing up as a dancer, she wrote. It was thought to be sports-induced asthma, but ended up being a deviated septum causing about 70 per cent decreased airflow on my left side. Ive found that its affected my life more than I thought, and I am so happy to be able to BREATHE!!!

The Dance Moms alum confessed that shes had conflicting feelings about getting a nose job over the years, since the procedure would change an aspect of who she is. However, she said she ultimately realised that she could still love herself after getting the nose job.

On a personal note, my nose has been something Ive been insecure about for such a long time and I really struggled with the thought of changing it, she continued. I felt ashamed that I wanted to change a part of myself as I am always talking about the importance of self-love. Ive learned that I can still love every part of myself, while making this change for myself.

She also shared her biggest requirement for the rhinoplasty surgery: I dont want the perfect nose, I still want to look like me.

Michelle thanked Truesdale for his amazing support throughout the entire process, both before and after she got the nose job done.

From having anxiety about surgery, to calling him on a Sunday because I was freaking out, to the INCREDIBLE results I could only dream of. I am so beyond grateful for this whole experience, she wrote. Thank you to everyone at @doctor.truesdale office for making me feel safe and beautiful in every form!

In the comments of the Instagram video, which has more than 58,000 likes, many fans praised Michelle for being so open about her insecurities, as well as for her decision to get the nose job in the first place.

Honestly I always thought you were so gorgeous I didnt even notice you had a bump. But I totally get how we focus so much on our own insecurities, one fan wrote.

You looked absolutely gorgeous before, and you look absolutely gorgeous now. Always do what makes you happy, another added.

Meanwhile, Michelles mother Jeanette Cota wrote: My beautiful, honest, humble girl... so happy you were able to do this for yourself and that you finally are breathing better! Thank you @doctor.truesdale for keeping her natural and still looking like my Miss Ava!

Other people went on to applaud the results of the nose job, as one follower said: This is what I call good plastic surgery. The change is subtle but huge at the same time.

Gorgeous result!!! Looks natural, another added. This was impeccable work.

Michelle isnt the first famous face to open up about getting the cosmetic procedure. In his new memoir, If You Would Have Told Me, actorJohn Stamos revealed that he had two nose jobs at the beginning of his career. In an excerpt of the book, released on 24 October, he specified that when he got cast in his first major role on General Hospital in 1982, he was too focused on how his nose looked, which encouraged him to get the nose job.

When I see it on TV for the first time, its all I can look at. Fixating on my nose is beginning to detract from my performance. Plus, the early years of bullying... have me ready to make a change, the actor - who recalled being nicknamed Big Nose Stamos throughout his childhood - wrote in his book.

However, the Full House star confessed that after he got his first nose job during a break from acting, the results didnt turn out as expected. So, he ended up having it redone by Michael Jacksons plastic surgeon.

Stamos also shared why he chose to get the cosmetic surgery in the first place, writing: Everyone who gets a nose job tries to find some excuse other than vanity. But lets call it what it was - vanity.
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The Princess of Wales, Kate Middletons brother James and Alizee Thevenet have welcomed their first child together.

Photos obtained by the Daily Mail on Thursday (26 October) showed the couple sipping on coffees and pushing a stroller while out for a walk with their newborn in Notting Hill, London.

The youngest Middleton sibling, 36, announced Thevenet was pregnant on Instagram in July, sharing a picture of the French financial analyst posing with their dog Mable. He captioned the post: We couldnt be more excited  well Mable might be along with a heart emoji.

Neither the youngest Middleton sibling nor Thevenet have publicly confirmed the news, with further details about the date of birth and babys name still awaited.

The Independent has contacted Jamess representatives for comment.

The newborn is the first cousin of Kate and Williams three children  Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, eight, and Prince Louis, five  and sister Pippa Middletons three kids with husband James Matthews.

James met Thevenet in 2019, with the British entrepreneur crediting his late dog Ella for orchestrating their meet-cute at the Chelseas upmarket South Kensington club five years ago.

In a 2021 article published inThe Telegraph, James recalled how his beloved cocker spaniel literally led him to Thevenet, writing: Ella was lying at my feet under the table; realising she might want some water, I trusted her to take herself over to the water bowl across the terrace.

However, she made a beeline for Alizee. Rather embarrassed, I went over to apologise and bring Ella back, he continued, revealing Thevenet mistook him for a waiter and ordered her drink while continue to play with Ella.

(Tim Rooke/Shutterstock)

James added: Little did I know, but I had just met my future wife, all thanks to Ella. If I hadnt trusted Ella, I wouldnt have brought her to the South Kensington Club and she wouldnt have been able to say hi to the woman who became my fiancee.

The couple got engaged a year later, but Covid lockdowns delayed their wedding until September 2021, when they tied the knot in a beachside ceremony in Provence, France. The former Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, their children, and Pippa and James were all reportedly in attendance.

Thevenet opted to wear her mother-in-law Carole Middletons wedding gown on her special day.

My something borrowed was in fact my dress from my mother-in-law Carole who last wore it 41 years ago on her wedding day in June, 1980, Thevenet told Hello! magazine.

In January, James announced on Instagram that my dear Ella has passed away, adding that his companion of 15 years had slipped away in my arms after a short period of illness.

Alongside a picture of Ella, he admitted: Im just about holding it together to write this, and despite the fact I knew this day was coming, it doesnt make it any easier.
Beginning in January, Auburn will have a new mayor.

With Michael Quill not seeking a fifth term, the two candidates running to succeed him are familiar faces to Auburnians.

Jimmy Giannettino, a two-term city councilor who is employed as an operations manager at MEDENT, announced his candidacy shortly after Quill decided against another reelection bid. He will appear on the Democratic, Auburn Party and Working Families lines.

Tim Lattimore has the Republican and Conservative lines. He served as mayor of Auburn from 2004 through 2007 and has been the GOP mayoral nominee for the last two decades. He also served as a Cayuga County legislator and works as an insurance broker with the Aversa Agency in Auburn.

Giannettino's top priority is water quality. He told The Citizen that when he's knocking on doors he usually doesn't like to single out one issue as the most important, but believes Owasco Lake and the drinking water supply should be the number one concern.

"This has been a problem that's building for decades but in the last seven years, we've seen serious threats to our drinking water," he said. "(The city council) in 2016 responded appropriately and we've been fighting for the last seven years."

Since toxins from harmful algal blooms were found in the drinking water supply in 2016, the city has advocated for changes to the Owasco Lake watershed rules and regulations. However, the state's recent response was met with criticism from local officials, including Giannettino, who believe Gov. Kathy Hochul's administration is failing to protect the lake.

"We've got to get the state of New York and (Hochul) to do what's right for Owasco Lake because if we lose that lake, we lose everything," Giannettino said. "We lose all the progress we've made over the last eight to 10 years."

Water quality is one of Lattimore's top issues, too. But he has been critical of Giannettino and other local leaders who have panned the state's response. He prefers a different approach  one that involves establishing a "green belt" around the lake and placing dams in streams to slow down the water flow.

"That's billions of gallons and the only product the city sells is water," he said. "Water quality has got to improve, not go downhill."

Other issues on Giannettino's agenda include economic development. With Micron's planned investment in central New York, it presents opportunities for the city to benefit from that project. Committees have formed featuring city and county leaders to discuss ways for Auburn and Cayuga County to capitalize on Micron's presence.

The former Bombardier plant, which is for sale, could be part of these plans. Giannettino says that site gives Auburn "a golden opportunity" to secure a supply chain business that will support Micron.

Lattimore thinks the Auburn area is in a prime position to benefit from the Micron project. He wants to promote the region's "intellectual knowledge" because the city is not far from colleges and universities, such as Cornell and Syracuse, in central New York.

"We're going to get Micron ripples but I don't know how long it's going to take us to get there," he said.

Both candidates mentioned housing as a priority. Giannettino considers it a quality-of-life issue. With the local effort to capitalize on the Micron project, he sits on the housing subcommittee. He said there have been discussions about a housing study to evaluate the existing housing stock. That study would include a survey component to get a better idea of what residents want, whether it's better rental options or to buy a home.

Lattimore's view on housing is that there needs to be more homeowners in Auburn. He thinks some of the city's problems are due to the high number of residents who rent instead of buy their homes. He wants to explore ways to boost home ownership in the city.

The candidates differ on public safety, with Giannettino praising the Auburn Police Department for keeping the city safe. He said under James Slayton, the city's police chief, the department has done a great job training a young police force at a time when turnover is affecting law enforcement.

Lattimore, who has claimed the city has a crime problem, wants more police officers. He thinks there should be an equal number of police officers as firefighters.

If elected mayor, Giannettino hopes to preserve the progress made under Quill, who has led the city since 2008.

"I feel that I'm the person that can do that and I think I have a proven track record as a city councilor and I want to translate that to the office of mayor," he said. "I want to continue to govern in a responsible manner and paint Auburn in a positive picture and continue down the path of success that (Quill) started for us."

For Lattimore, he views the opportunity as a continuation of his public service. Twenty years after he was elected to his only term as mayor, he is asking voters to send him back to city hall.

"I love Auburn and I won't quit on Auburn," he said. "There was a famous politician called Abe Lincoln and he got beat up a little bit before he had ever started getting traction with some of his programs. I'm not a Lincoln but I love the town and I'm going to keep trying until it happens."
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There are stories in the human bones at the American Museum of Natural History. They tell of lives lived  some mere decades ago, others in past centuries  in cultures around the world.

But the vast collection of thousands of skeletal parts at one of the world's most visited museums also tells a darker story  of opened graves, disrupted burial sites and collecting practices that treated some cultures and people as objects to be gawked at.

The New York museum announced this month that it is pulling all human remains from public display and will change how it maintains its collection of body parts with the aim of eventually repatriating as much as it can and respectfully holding what it cant.

The museum now holds around 12,000 sets of remains, including the bones of Indigenous people and enslaved Black people, often amassed in the 19th and 20th centuries by researchers looking to prove theories about racial superiority and inferiority through physical attributes.

Some of the other remains are people  likely poor or powerless  whose bodies had once been used at medical schools before they were given to the museum as recently as the 1940s.

American Museum of Natural History President Sean Decatur, who in April became the museums first Black leader, said that for the most part, the remains in the collection were acquired without clear consent of the dead or their descendants.

I think its fair to say that none of these people set out or imagined that their resting place would be in the museums collection, he said. And in most of the cases, there also was a clear differential in power between those who were collecting and those who were collected.

The process of pulling human remains from public display will impact six of the museum's galleries. Objects being removed include a musical instrument made from human bone, a skeleton from Mongolia that is more than a thousand years old and a Tibetan artifact that incorporates bones.

The idea that human remains and artifacts taken from other cultures should be returned is not new. A U.S. law passed in 1990 created a legal process for some Native tribes to recover ancestral remains from museums and other institutions. In a letter to museum staff, Decatur said about 2,200 sets of remains at the museum fall under that category.

Other museums and institutions are grappling with the issue as well. At the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, for example, more than 100 human remains have been returned to the relevant communities. The museum is working to return four other sets of remains that don't fall under the federal law's purview.

Fundamentally, we have a responsibility to do more than acknowledge the harm caused by historical collecting practices that treated peoples and cultures as objects of scientific study, Chris Patrello, curator of anthropology at the museum, said in an email.

In 2022, an estimated 870,000 Native American artifacts, including remains that should be returned to tribes under federal law are still in possession of colleges, museums, and other institutions across the country, according to The Associated Press.

But its not just Indigenous remains being in museum collections that are troubling.

Decatur said some of the remains in the museum are believed to be of five Black people whose bones were removed from a northern Manhattan burial ground during a road construction project at the start of the 1900s.

Enslavement was a violent, dehumanizing act; removing these remains from their rightful burial place ensured that the denial of basic human dignity would continue even in death, Decatur said in his letter to the museum staff.

Historically, Black graves have been subjected to robbery, said Lynn Rainville, a professor of anthropology at Washington and Lee University. They have also been covered over or disrupted in construction and development projects.

Decatur said the American Museum of Natural History's holdings also include about 400 bodies that came from four New York medical schools in the 1940s, even though theres no obvious process by which bodies used for medical training in anatomy should have ended up in a museum.

One of the medical schools no longer exists; the others were connected to Columbia, Cornell and New York University. Columbias medical school had no comment. The other two did not respond to emails seeking information. Museum officials said they were talking with the schools and as far as they had been able to determine, the bodies had not come to the institution in any nefarious way.

Its one of those things that is jarring and sort of ... hits closer to home than an archaeological expedition thats looking at things that are a thousand-plus years old. But its a practice that was incredibly common at the time, Decatur said.

Susan Lederer, professor of medical history and bioethics at the University of Wisconsins medical school, said that as the number of medical schools increased in the 19th century and dissection became an essential part of training, schools needed to find more cadavers.

States passed laws making unclaimed bodies, mostly of very poor people, available to medical schools.

It reflects longstanding assumptions about the differences between middle-class and either working-class or underclass people that it was deemed acceptable to turn certain bodies over but not others, she said.

The practice at most medical schools shifted in the second half of the 20th century for a number of reasons, including more people in the U.S. being willing to donate their bodies after death, she said.

The museum's process of figuring out how to handle those and other remains in storage will take some time, Decatur said. Officials will need to determine what can be returned and to whom, as well as how to properly care for any remains that stay behind.
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Vice President Kamala Harris will attend a summit on artificial intelligence in the United Kingdom next week, shortly after President Joe Biden issues a highly anticipated executive order on an emerging technology that has generated excitement and fear.

Shes scheduled to leave on Tuesday and return on Nov. 2, and shell be accompanied by her husband, Douglas Emhoff, according to her office.

Harris will deliver a speech outlining the Democratic administrations approach to artificial intelligence on Nov. 1 before attending a summit on the topic the next day. Emhoff is expected to participate in events with civil society groups and young leaders focused on science learning, gender equity and countering hate.

Kirsten Allen, a spokeswoman for Harris, said the goal is a future where every person is safe from the harms of AI and where every person can share equally in its benefits.

Governments around the globe are racing to set guidelines for artificial intelligence. Besides Bidens executive order, the European Union is putting the final touches on a comprehensive set of regulations that targets the riskiest applications for the technology.

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hopes to carve out a prominent role for Britain on the issue, and next weeks summit will be held at Bletchley Park, a historic estate north of London that once served as a base for World War II codebreakers. Teams at what's dubbed the spiritual home of modern computing were able to crack the Nazis' Enigma cipher, helping to end the war.

The summit will focus on the risks from whats known as frontier artificial intelligence, which is cutting edge systems that can carry out a wide range of tasks and pose unknown risks to public safety. These systems are underpinned by large language models, which are trained on vast pools of text and data. ___

Chan reported from London.
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Venezuelas chief prosecutor on Wednesday announced a criminal investigation into organizers of this past weekend's primary election that was meant to let voters choose an opposition candidate to run against President Nicolas Maduro next year.

Attorney General Tarek William Saab told reporters the probe would look at allegations including that the independent National Primary Commission that organized Sunday's balloting was illegally usurping the duties of a government entity.

The announcement came hours after the opposition-organized commission released updated results showing participation of more than 2.4 million voters, the overwhelming majority of whom supported longtime government foe Maria Corina Machado.

Saab said his investigation also would look into allegations of identity theft, money laundering and conspiracy.

As we know, an act of buffoonery took place Sunday, a kind of theater to deceive both national and international public opinion, Saab said, joining other government allies who portrayed the primary election as a farce.

Saab, a close Maduro ally and former lawmaker, said that the commission does not have the authority to preside over an election because that power belongs only to the countrys National Electoral Council. The commission initially sought help from the council, widely considered partial to the ruling party, but forged ahead without it after repeated delays.

Saab added that it remains unclear how the primary was financed, and said that according to complaints the identity of thousands of people who did not attend a voting center were used to inflate participation figures.

Maduros government and its allies have spent months hindering opposition efforts to hold their primary election and have banned the now-apparent winner from being a candidate  leaving the outcome of Sundays poll in doubt.

Organizers did not forecast participation figures, but logistical issues, fuel shortages, government threats and repression led people involved or familiar with the effort to initially estimate turnout of around 1 million. That projection doubled as more and more people arrived at the polls in Venezuela and other countries.

Voters defied expectations, even in neighborhoods once considered strongholds of the ruling party. While they waited in line for hours, many talked about their hopes for a government change that can get the country out of a decade-long economic, political and social crisis.

The latest partial results released by the commission showed at least 2.3 million people within Venezuela and more than 132,000 outside the country voted Sunday.

Machado, a former lawmaker, already has declared herself the winner after results showed her far ahead of nine other candidates. The partial results showed that with about 92% of tally sheets counted, Machado had 2,253,825 votes, or 92.35% of the total. Her closest competitor had 112,523 votes, or 4.61%.

While Maduro's government last week agreed in principle to let the opposition choose its candidate for the 2024 presidential election, Machado remains officially barred from running for office. And Maduros government has in the past bent the law, retaliated against opponents and breached agreements as it sees fit.

____

Follow APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
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South Koreas top court on Thursday cleared a scholar of charges of defaming the Korean victims of sexual slavery during Japanese colonial rule, in a contentious book published in 2013.

Thursdays ruling in the criminal case of Park Yu-ha isnt the end of her long-running legal battle, as she faces a separate civil suit. Shes suffered harsh public criticism over her book Comfort Women of the Empire, triggering debates over the scope of freedom of speech in South Korea.

In 2017, the Seoul High Court fined Park, an emeritus professor at Seouls Sejong University, 10 million won ($7,360) over some of the expressions she used in her book to describe Korean women who were forced to serve as sex slaves for Japans troops during the first half of the 20th century.

But the Supreme Court ruled Thursday it was difficult to determine those expressions constituted criminal defamation, saying it was more appropriate to assess them as Parks academic arguments or expression of her personal opinions.

The court said that restrictions on the freedom of academic expressions must be minimal. It still said that when scholars publicize their studies, they must strive to protect others privacy and dignity and to respect their freedom and rights to self-determination.

Prosecutors and Parks critics earlier accused her of defaming ex-sex slaves by writing that they were proud of their jobs and had comrade-like relationships with Japanese soldiers while the Japanese military wasnt officially involved in the forceful mobilization of sex slaves.

The Supreme Court said it sent Parks case back to the Seoul High Court to make a new ruling on her. The procedure means that Park will be declared not guilty at the high court unless new evidence against her come out, according to Supreme Court officials.

Park welcomed the ruling. I think todays verdict is a ruling that determines whether the freedom of thought exists in Republic of Korea, she wrote on Facebook.

In a separate civil suit, a Seoul district court in 2016 ordered Park to pay 10 million won ($7,360) each to nine of the ex-Korean sex slaves who sued her. An appellate trial on that case is still under way, according to media reports.

Sexual slavery is a highly emotional issue in South Korea, where many still harbor strong resentment against the 1910-45 Japanese colonial occupation.

Historians say tens of thousands of women from around Asia, many of them Korean, were sent to front-line military brothels to provide sex to Japanese soldiers. The term comfort women," which was used in the title of Park's book, is an euphemism for the sex slaves.

Japan issued an apolog y in 1993 after a government investigation concluded many women were taken against their will and lived in misery under a coercive atmosphere. However, there has been a strong backlash from South Korea and elsewhere to comments by Japanese politicians who speak about a lack of documentary proof the women were forcibly recruited, in an apparent attempt to gloss over Tokyo's wartime atrocities.
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The King has been briefed at Buckingham Palace by aid agencies on the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Charity leaders from Medical Aid for Palestinians, the British Red Cross, Unicef UK and Christian Aid met with the monarch in-person on Thursday.

Charles, who is president of the British Red Cross, discussed the acute humanitarian situation in the region, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said.

The British Red Cross said the King had made a generous donation to its fundraising appeal.

We are immensely grateful to HM King Charles for his generous donation to our Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territory appeal, the charity wrote on social media.

Aid agencies are calling for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict to protect civilians and humanitarian workers, and ensure safe and sustained access to aid.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has stressed the need for temporary breaks in the bombings to allow Israeli hostages and British nationals to be freed.

Buckingham Palace did not comment on whether the King discussed the plight of the hostages and the work to free them during the private meeting.

But the International Committee of the Red Cross, in its neutral intermediary role, assisted with the recent release of four Israeli hostages. Hamas is still holding more than 200 people.

At the audience were the chief executive of Unicef UK Jon Sparkes, Medical Aid for Palestinians chief executive Melanie Ward, vice chair of the board of trustees for Medical Aid for Palestinians Shireen Jayyusi, Christian Aid chief executive Patrick Watt, and Rory Moylan, head of region for the Middle East, North Africa and Europe at the British Red Cross.

The British Red Cross has described the situation in Gaza as an unprecedented humanitarian crisis with vital resources unable to get through.

It said the most pressing issue is the lack of food and water, and that recent aid convoys were just a drop in the ocean.

Israel has only in recent days agreed to allow aid into Gaza, having besieged the Hamas-ruled area, preventing essentials such as water, food and fuel from reaching more than two million Palestinians.

But the UN has warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory.

The King also held an audience with the Crown Prince of Kuwait on Wednesday when he also discussed the ongoing conflict, which has already claimed nearly 8,000 lives on both sides.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the military is preparing for a full-scale ground invasion to crush Hamas.

In a landmark speech last week, Charles stressed the vital need for mutual understanding among religions in times of international turmoil and heart-breaking loss of life.

Earlier in the month, he held talks with Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi, at the Palace to discuss the horrors of events in Israel and how to support interfaith harmony in Britain in distressing and difficult times.

Buckingham Palace said Charles condemned Hamass barbaric acts of terrorism after its October 7 attack on Israel  which killed 1,400 people.
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A beyond sadistic man who murdered his new girlfriend weeks after being bailed to her home has been jailed for a minimum of 23 years.

Christopher McGowan, 28, strangled Claire Inglis, also 28, to death at her home in Stirling, Scotland in November 2021 just weeks after he was bailed to her home. The pair had been together for just eight weeks.

The mother-of-one suffered 76 injuries during the savage attack including the bruising of almost her entire skull. Her murder has renewed calls for stronger systematic protections for vulnerable women.

Chief executive of Scottish Womens Aid, Marsha Scott, told The Independent that there needed to be more thorough risk assessments done when violent men are released on bail in light of Ms Inglis death.

Its not about pointing the finger at one person, its a systematic issue, she said. When we see someone in the criminal justice system who has repeatedly breached bail, clearly shows no sign that he is going to abide by rules of subsequent conditions and also has a history of violent offending and domestic abuse there needs to be a basic set of questions that should be asked every time

She continued: We need to ask every time: is this man safe to be out? Is his community safe if hes released? And are women and children in his household and related households safe if hes released?

Time after time we see cases and reviews of women and child deaths where the role of violent men - often with an extremely transparent history of violence - is minimised.

Scotlands Procurator Fiscal for homicide, Moira Orr, said McGowan displayed aggressive and controlling behaviour before the murder.

Claire Inglis was caught on CCTV shopping shortly before she was killed (Police Scotland)

She said: This is a heartbreaking case of the murder of a young mother  Claire Inglis by her abusive partner. Christopher McGowan showed cruelty and contempt for Claire, and his actions have left her family devastated.

As prosecutors, we have worked to deliver justice for Claire. The case was carefully investigated by COPFS working with Police Scotland, demonstrating that McGowan had displayed aggressive and controlling behaviour towards Claire prior to her murder.

Domestic Abuse Campaigner David Challen told The Independent: Serious questions need to be raised as to why McGowan, a known criminal with a history of significant violence, was allowed to be bailed back to his partners flat.

The decision to put McGowans request for bail above that of the safety of vulnerable people in society highlights how the system is continuously weighted in favor of violent perpetrators and actively puts victims at risk.

Charity Refuge said Mcgowen should never have been bailed to Claires home. They added serious questions must be asked about the lessons learned so that women are better protected from dangerous men.

In a sentencing statement later published online, Judge OGrady added that Ms Inglis was subjected to nothing short of torture.

Christopher McGowan was bailed to Claire Inglis adress just weeks before murdering her (PA)

He said: I shudder to imagine what her last minutes were like. To describe what you did as sadistic falls woefully short of the mark. It was beyond sadistic.

The judge said that while listening to evidence McGowan had shown not a flicker of emotion, not a hint of distress, not a shadow of remorse.

Mcgowen was sentenced on Wednesday morning at the High Court in Edinburgh to a minimum of 23 years behind bars following a trial at the High Court in Stirling last month. McGowan had 39 previous convictions with a history of offending beginning around 14 years ago.

The sentencing has sparked conversation on social media. Criminal behavioral analyst and expert on domestic abuse Laura Richards said the incident was unacceptable and asked, How many more women must die?

A spokesperson for Solace Womens Aid said: Our hearts go out to Claires family for everything that they have endured. As always we send our condolences and we stand in solidarity with everyone seeking justice for those they have lost as a result of male violence.

This is a horrible case and one where the perpetrator has shown no remorse and taken no responsibility for his actions. We hope that seeing justice being done will bring her family some comfort.

If you need to speak to someone regarding domestic violence, call 0800 027 1234 for Scottish Womens Aid or find help at Womens Aid here: https://www.womensaid.org.uk/information-support/
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Two calves were beheaded in a vicious overnight farm attack thought to have been driven by the black-market meat trade.

The killers butchered the animals, leaving behind only their innards and heads, and draining the blood.

Several other calves were deliberately injured, in what experts suspect was an attempt to prevent them escaping.

The attack, close to an RSPCA farm animal centre in Frankley Green on the outskirts of Birmingham, was condemned by the farmer as wicked and by a vet as malicious.

The RSPCA says it believes the killers of the year-old calves were harvesting meat for the black market. The attackers did not stun the animals to numb them to pain.

A vet said another calf suffered a head wound and two more had deep gashes to their tendons  in a suspected effort to stop them from getting away. The RSPCA said the wounds from the attack were so severe that the two calves had to be put down to end their suffering.

A leg of one calf whose tendons were cut (RSPCA )

The vet, who did not want to be identified, said: This malicious act must have been carried out by someone with slaughter or butchery experience as they appeared to know how to dismember a cow.

Without a handling system the calves were most likely chased and immobilised in the field by slicing the hindlimb tendons.

There was no evidence of stunning to render them unconscious, so these animals were aware of the pain until the end.

Once I examined the remaining calves, there were multiple laceration injuries to hind limbs. Those that were uninjured displayed signs of stress, exhaustion and abnormal calf behaviour for several days after.

Investigators believe all the dead animals blood was taken little blood was found in the field, contrary to what would be expected.

The farmer, identified only as Mr Whiteman, said: I cant believe it. This is a wicked thing to do. Ive worked with animals all my life and Ive never seen anything like this  the cruelty of it is unbelievable. You look after and care for your animals so to see something like this happen is really upsetting.

Inspector Fiona Howell, who is investigating for the RSPCA, said: This is a shocking and concerning incident and would have caused the calves significant distress and suffering.

Even if the person who did this is trained in slaughter, to kill two calves in an open field in the middle of the night without proper equipment, stunning or sedation, is inhumane and cruel.

This must have taken several people to undertake and a large vehicle or van so were hopeful that someone will have seen or heard something which might help our investigation.

She asked anyone who might have seen anything suspicious to ring 0300 123 8018, or contact the police on 101 quoting 91i.

Public health experts say black-market meat is unlikely to have been processed properly or subjected to quality checks and could be risky.
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A man who bought a gun from the US on the dark web and searched the internet for the Dunblane massacre has been jailed for five years.

James Maxwell, 28, from Leven, Fife, also ordered ammunition and searched online for when schools broke up for Christmas 2022.

He appeared by video link from HMP Perth for sentencing at the High Court in Edinburgh on Thursday following an earlier hearing at which he admitted six charges, including being in possession of indecent images of a child.

Judge Lord Ericht handed Maxwell a nine-year extended sentence comprising five years in prison and a further four years when he will be monitored after release from jail, telling him: You are a grave risk to public safety.

In September, Maxwell pleaded guilty to purchasing and attempting to acquire a prohibited weapon without permission or without holding a firearms certificate between December 1, 2022 and January 11, 2023.

Maxwell also admitted buying and attempting to acquire and possess ammunition, as well as attempting to import the firearm from the US and bullets without lawful authority.

He pleaded guilty to possessing child pornography between April 22, 2022 and January 11, 2023 as well as possessing extreme images involving animals.

During sentencing, judge Lord Ericht told Maxwell: You did a search for when the schools broke up for Christmas 2022.

You also searched the Dunblane school massacre and primary schools in Glasgow.

One hundred rounds of that kind of ammunition used would have been unimaginable. You are a grave risk to public safety Lord Ericht

Lord Ericht told the court the ammunition Maxwell had ordered would cause greater injury than standard use ammunition and it had not been lawfully acquired in the UK.

He added: You purchased them on the dark web, you bought them from the USA and you paid for them with crypto currency.

The court heard the firearms were intercepted before they arrived at Maxwells address and he was subsequently arrested.

Prosecutors said Maxwells plans were thwarted after US law enforcement officers searched and found a Glock 17 handgun and ammunition in a UK-bound mail package which included Maxwells address and phone number and immediately alerted Police Scotland.

Four days later, a package containing the empty Glock gun box and two ammunition boxes was delivered to Maxwells home and officers arrived with a search warrant and found it in his bedroom.

Lord Ericht added: One hundred rounds of that kind of ammunition used would have been unimaginable.

You are a grave risk to public safety.

Concluding, Lord Ericht said: I commend both the USA law officers and Police Scotland for their actions in ensuring the gun and ammunition were not received by you.

Maxwell will also be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of seven years.

His lawyer, Jonathan Crowe, told the court in mitigation that Maxwell had a troubled upbringing and left secondary school aged 13 following the death of his father by suicide.

He subsequently failed to return to any kind of education or employment, and Mr Crowe told the court Maxwell never received any support to do so.

Mr Crowe said: He spent time in his room playing games and watching DVDs and his life has followed the same pattern ever since.

A psychiatric assessment found Maxwell described himself as suicidal for many years, Mr Crowe said.

It also said he had no contact with the outside world and Maxwell lived online for many years.

As a result, the psychiatric report said, Maxwell developed Americanised values, common among those who spend time online, particularly around guns, which made his behaviour seem odd when compared to the norms of British society.

Mr Crowe told the court Maxwell was simply unaware of the severity of what he had done or that gun ownership in the UK was unusual or unlawful.

He added: Locking Mr Maxwell in a prison cell is going to do little for him given the circumstances, and called for leniency in sentencing him.
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A paedophile who abducted a young girl as she walked home and sexually abused her for 27 hours is appealing against his sentence.

Andrew Miller, 53, who also uses the name Amy George, was dressed as a woman when he offered the primary school-aged child  whom he had never seen before  a lift in February.

He took the girl back to his house in the Scottish Borders and subjected her to repeated attacks, which a judge described as every parents worst nightmare.

At the High Court in Edinburgh last week, Miller was handed a 28-year extended sentence, comprising 20 years behind bars and a further eight spent on licence under supervision in the community.

At the same court in May, Miller had pleaded guilty to charges of abduction, sexual assault, watching pornography in the presence of the child under the age of 13, and possessing 242 indecent images of children.

The Court of Criminal Appeal in Edinburgh confirmed on Thursday that an appeal against sentence has been lodged on behalf of Miller.

A judge will now consider whether the appeal can be heard.

Sentencing Miller last week, judge Lord Arthurson described Millers crimes as brazen and chilling and uniquely appalling.

He said the offences were abhorrent crimes of the utmost deviance and depravity which were the realisation of every parents worst nightmare.

The court was told Miller is transitioning into a woman.

The child was locked in Millers home for 27 hours, during which time she was repeatedly touched, and also forced to watch pornography.

She eventually managed to dial 999 while Miller, who was wearing womens underwear, was asleep.

Miller, who had run a butchers shop, claimed he offered the girl a lift because she was freezing, and said forcing her to sleep in the bed with him was a motherly thing.

After his arrest, three laptops were seized from his property and a total of 242 indecent images of children were found.

Miller has been placed on the sex offenders register.

He has been held in the male prison estate following a row over the jailing of transgender rapist Isla Bryson who was sent to a female prison in February.
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A British woman has been found guilty of handing over a three-year-old who was subjected to female genital mutilation in a legal first.

Jurors were told Amina Noor, 39, took the toddler, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to Kenya in 2006 where the procedure was carried out.

A court heard the girl, who was not told what would happen to her, cried for the whole night after the procedure.

On Thursday, Noor was found guilty of assisting a person to mutilate a girls genitalia while outside the UK, contrary to the FGM Act of 2003, following a week-long trial at the Old Bailey. She was granted conditional bail and is due to be sentenced on 20 December.

Prosecutors have said the conviction, which is the first of its kind, sends a clear message over the practice of FGM, which is shrouded in secrecy. Noor is also only the second person to be found guilty of any offence under FGM laws, which brings a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison.

During the trial, prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said Ms Noor travelled by tuk-tuk to a clinic at a private house in the east African country, where the girl was taken into a room on her own by a woman whose medical qualifications were not known.

The girl, who was born in Britain, was not told what would happen to her or was too young to understand.

Whilst they were there, she took [the girl] to the house of Kenyan woman, where [the girl] was subjected to female genital mutilation (FGM), she told the court.

Afterwards, the toddler was quiet but later cried the whole night, complaining of pain when she went to the toilet.

The incident was not reported until 2018, when the girl  then aged 16  confided in an English teacher who contacted the authorities.

During a medical examination at a London hospital in 2019, doctors confirmed the girls clitoris had been fully removed.

The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey (Nick Ansell/PA) (PA Archive)

Jurors heard the defendant was born in Somalia and moved to Kenya at the age of eight during the civil war in her home country. She was 16 when she came to the United Kingdom and was later granted British citizenship.

The court was told that 94 per cent of women of Somali origin living in Kenya undergo FGM, according to United Nations figures.

In a police interview in 2019, Noor, who denied the charge, said she had expected the child to undergo Sunnah, which she said was the insertion of a needle in the genitalia to draw blood, but insisted she did not know her clitoris would be removed.

She said that it was a quick procedure and that although [the child] had cried when it was carried out, she was happy and able to run around and play afterwards, Deer told the court.

However, she said did not check the childs wound, nor did she want to, the court heard.

Giving evidence, Noor, from Harrow, northwest London, told jurors she feared she would have been disowned and cursed if she did not hand over the child.

She said: I didnt know whether this was going to be something that is harming (the girl) but I did not want to allow it whatever it might be. I was told I would be cursed if I refuse.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino, who works in the CPS London Complex Casework Unit, hailed Noors conviction as sending a clear message on FGM, and urged other survivors to come forward. She said: This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about whats actually happened to them.

It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesnt matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.

She added: Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, its often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of whats happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.

Amina Noor, 39, was giving evidence at her trial at the Old Bailey in London (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Archive)

In a statement outside court, Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said: I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to, to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.

Responding to landmark case, an FGM campaigner called for urgent updates to outdated statistics for women and girls affected in England and Wales. Figures dating from 2014 estimate there are 137,000 impacted by FGM.

Nimco Ali, FGM survivor and cofounder of Five Foundation, a global partnership to end FGM, said: I underwent FGM at age 7, so I know this girls pain. When I told my teacher in Manchester, very little could be done to help me or others like me, who were affected by FGM.

Thankfully, things have changed so much in the last decades, following the work we have done to improve laws and policies, and get this issue out of the shadows and onto the front pages of national media.

It is incredible that the mandatory reporting by teachers and health care professionals - that we have fought hard for - is starting to pay off. A girl was obviously failed. She was let down by the system, but she got some form of justice today, thanks to the policies that we now have in place.

She added: We have to address FGM in the UK and everywhere by working together to address the root causes of the issue. The next step is getting a clearer sense of the number of women and girls who are affected here.
Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed a bill to set a higher debt limit for Auburn and other small city school districts  if voters approve a ballot proposal to eliminate the existing cap in November.

Nearly 60 small city school districts in New York are subject to a 5% debt limit. The ceiling is based on the total value of taxable property within a district.

However, other school districts do not have the same debt restriction. While Auburn must abide by the 5% cap, other school districts in Cayuga County and across the state have a 10% debt limit.

State lawmakers passed legislation to amend the constitution and eliminate the debt limit for small city school districts. Voters will have the final say.

One of two proposals on the ballot this year would repeal the 5% debt limit for small city schools. The change is supported by several organizations, including the New York State Association of Small City School Districts and New York State Educational Conference Board.

"Approval of this referendum will be an important step toward treating small city schools fairly and toward putting them on an equal footing with central school districts," said Robert Breidenstein, executive director of the New York State Association of Small City School Districts.

The proposed amendment is one part of the process. The second part is the bill signed by Hochul.

If voters approve the ballot proposal, it would eliminate the existing debt limit for small city schools. A new debt limit would need to be set for these districts.

In preparation for the possibility that the ballot proposal will pass, the state Legislature advanced a bill to set a 10% debt limit for small city schools, aligning them with other school districts in New York.

The bill's sponsors, state Sen. Shelley Mayer and Assemblyman John McDonald, said the existing debt ceiling "limits districts' ability to control their fiscal affairs."

Hochul signed the bill Wednesday. The new law will take effect if the ballot proposal is approved by voters. If the proposition fails, then the 5% debt limit will remain in place.

There was an attempt in 2003 to repeal the 5% debt limit for small city school districts. However, it was rejected by voters.
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A video allegedly showing rapper Lady Leshurr attacking her ex-girlfriends lover moments before biting her does not show the real incident, the artist has told a court.

The 35-year-old, whose real name is Melesha OGarro, is accused of assaulting Chante Boyea  then dating her ex-girlfriend Sidnee Hussein  just after 5am on October 22 2022, biting her hand so badly that she suffered nerve damage.

OGarro told a jury at east Londons Southwark Crown Court that she had been on the ground and stamped on and Ms Boyea was directing a dog about where to attack her.

The former Dancing On Ice contestant, of Kingshurst, Birmingham, and her co-defendant Sherelle Smith allegedly attacked Ms Hussein after she tried to help Ms Boyea, the court has heard previously.

The rapper denies two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and Smith, 29, of Yardley, Birmingham, denies one count of the same charge during the incident outside Ms Husseins home in Walthamstow, north-east London.

Bruising to OGarros left arm was caused by Chante stamping plus injuries to the left side of her body including her leg, inside left arm, elbow and buttock were all caused by a dog, she told the jury.

OGarro also denied she tried to headbutt or bite Ms Hussein.

A diagnosis that she suffered post concussion syndrome was later made during a hospital appointment but OGarro denied this had been caused by her delivering a headbutt. The jury have seen a Snapchat video recorded by Ms Boyea which shows her holding back OGarro with her left hand as the rapper appeared to lunge at her.

In the short clip, OGarro was seen with her mouth open as Ms Boyea screamed help repeatedly.

Ms Boyea previously told the court that OGarro then bit down on her hand and didnt let go. She said that OGarro only relented when Ms Hussein rushed from her house to her aid and was then attacked by Smith.

The defendants case is that they were the ones who were first attacked and that security officer Ms Boyea used her Belgian Malinois dog Toby as a weapon against OGarro.

During her evidence on Thursday OGarro, who denied biting or trying to bite Ms Boyea, said she believes the video was taken after the altercation because she is not wearing one of her trademark wigs, which she uses 95% of the time.

She told the court: Looking at the video, Im just trying to get her off.

She (Ms Boyea) said that Im flailing my arms around. None of it connected. I am trying to get them off and there is a dog around.

She suggested her mouth could be open in the video because her chin may have been hit.

OGarro said the dog was being directed to specific places where it could bite her.

She said: While I was on the floor she was hitting me. She was saying get her and that is where the dog was going.

OGarro added my main concern was keeping the dog away from my face and throughout the brawl all she wanted to do was escape.

She said: I did not care that she was hitting me. It was the dog at the time. I just wanted to get up and get away  that was it.

Under cross-examination by the prosecution on Thursday OGarro denied she was having to be restrained because she had become angry.

She said: Im clearly defending myself.

If you put that online everyone would think Im attacking her but if you look theres still a dog attacking me.

Asked by the prosecution why Ms Boyea is shouting for help, OGarro replied: So that she has evidence that she is being attacked.

She made this Snapchat evidence before she called the police  thats my analysis of that.

OGarro said she did not say anything while she was on the floor in pain adding: I just wanted it to end, I had no energy, I did not scream or shout, I literally just took it.

The hearing was adjourned to Friday at 11.30am.
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Two teenagers have admitted inflicting actual bodily harm on a 15-year-old black girl outside a school in an assault that was filmed and went viral online.

The 16-year-old girls, who cannot legally be named due to their age, both pleaded guilty to one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm on the youngster outside Thomas Knyvett College in Ashford, Surrey, on February 6.

One defendant also pleaded guilty to assaulting a second teenage girl by beating on the same day.

The second defendant also pleaded not guilty to racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm on that day and sending a threatening message to the black girl on Snapchat two days before.

Appearing at Guildford Youth Court on Wednesday afternoon, they spoke only to confirm their names, dates of birth and addresses before entering their pleas.

Magistrates were shown video of the assault which showed a black pupil being punched, kicked and having her hair pulled while her attackers were egged on by adults.

The second defendant is alleged to have repeatedly called the girl a monkey and said they were going to rip a dreadlock out of your big fat head in the Snapchat video.

She denies that she was the one making the threats.

Prosecutor Amanda Burrows said the teenager who admitted both charges she faced was being encouraged to get involved after she pulled back but was certainly involved at the beginning.

Video showed that the defendant was told get on her and thats it, thats it by an adult.

The second victim said in an impact statement that she saw the same defendant assault the first victim while her co-defendant hit her, kicked her in the neck and pulled her hair out.

The girl also said one defendant dragged her onto the floor and kicked her in the thighs for around five minutes while she was on the floor.

The black pupil did not provide a victim impact statement but pictures shown in court revealed her braided hair had been pulled out at the scalp and her eyes were bruised.

The response of staff led to a backlash and criticism by MPs and a protest was held outside the school two days after the attack happened.

Chairwoman of the bench Sue Hodnett bailed the defendant who admitted all charges until she is sentenced at the same court on November 22.

The other defendant, who was also bailed, will stand trial on a date to be fixed and be sentenced for the offence she admitted later.
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A TikTok star who paraded his jet-setting lifestyle on social media has been jailed in Peru for almost seven years after being caught with nearly three kilograms of cocaine in his suitcase.

Modou Adams, 25, would post candid pictures on his Instagram called boywholives, showing his glamorous life as he spent time in Los Angeles, Athens and multiple trips to Peru, including a visit to Machu Pichu.

However, all is not what it seemed as Adams ostensibly high-flying model lifestyle disguised his sideline as a drugs mule and he will now be spending the remainder of his 20s and early 30s in a prison cell.

According to a statement published by Perus Supreme Court, he has been sentenced to six years and eight months in prison for trying to smuggle 2.89 kilograms of cocaine to London.

In the press release he was referred to by his full name of Modou Dodou Adams (25) and his job was described as a TikToker.

He previously used the video sharing app to post videos of his travels, but account now appears to have been deleted.

Modou Adams job was described as a TikToker in court (boywholives/instagram)

Adams was arrested Jorge Chavez international airport, located north of the countrys capital Lima, on September 30. Police searched his luggage and found a package in the back of his suitcase inside a metal pouch.

Footage of the moment Adams luggage was searched was released by police and shows an officer cutting into the false back of the bag.

Adams seems baffled by the ordeal as the officer holds up the implement which appears to be covered in a white powder, later identified as cocaine. The officer then removes the false backing to the suitcase to reveal the drugs.

The influencer was heading to Paris, France, with his eventual destination London, England, according to the statement from the Supreme Court.

The 25-year-old was dealt with swiftly by the Peruvian justice system and had his case resolved in less than 24 hours.

Adams appeared in court with an interpreter so he could understand the proceedings at the court hearing and admitted he was responsible for the crime.

British model Modou Adams has been jailed in Peru for almost seven years (boywholives/Instagram)

As well as the jail sentence Adams will have to pay a fine of 1,281.00 (6,500 soles). He was handed his sentence by Judge Renee Quispe Silva for illicit trafficking in toxic drugs, to the detriment of the Peruvian state.

Adams last post on his Instagram account shows him posing at Machu Pichu on 26 September, four days prior to his arrest.

The last high-profile arrests of British cititzens for drug smuggling came in August 2013 when Michaella McCollum and Melissa Reid were trying to smuggle 1.5million of cocaine in their luggage from Peru to Spain.

The duo were sentenced to six years and eight months in prison, the same stretch that Adams will have to serve.

Both McCollum and Reid of them were granted early release by the Peruvian authorities and allowed to serve the rest of their sentences on parole in the UK.
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Tory MP Crispin Blunt has been arrested and questioned by Surrey police over an allegation of rape and possession of controlled substances.

The 63-year-old MP for Reigate has now had the whip suspended by the Conservatives and he has been asked to stay away from the parliamentary estate.

After reports of the arrest of an unnamed Conservative MP first emerged on Thursday evening, Mr Blunt issued a statement on Twitter/X vowing to clear his name.

Conservative MP Crispin Blunt had already announced he will stand down at the next election (PA)

The MP for Reigate said he will co-operate fully with the ongoing investigation and is confident that he will not be charged. He claimed that he had initially been interviewed by police on Wednesday after he reported an alleged extortion.

It has been reported that an MP was arrested yesterday in connection with an allegation of rape, Mr Blunt wrote. I am confirming that MP was me.

Mr Blunt said: The fact of the arrest requires a formal notification of the speaker and then my chief whip. I have now been interviewed twice in connection with this incident, the first time three weeks ago, when I initially reported my concern over extortion. The second time was earlier this morning under caution following arrest.

The arrest was unnecessary as I remain ready to cooperate fully with the investigation that I am confident will end without charge. I do not intend to say anything further on this matter until the police have completed their inquiries, the MP added.

A Surrey police spokesman told The Independent: We can confirm a man was arrested yesterday morning [25 October] on suspicion of rape and possession of controlled substances. He has been released on conditional police bail pending further enquiries.

Cabinet minister Gillian Keegan insisted that there is no cultural issue among Tory MPs following a series of suspensions. The education secretary said Rishi Sunak has been clear about high standards and always follows due process when asked about the arrest of Mr Blunt.

Conservative MP Crispin Blunt (PA Media)

Due to the serious nature of the allegations... hes had the whip suspended, but the police are involved now so beyond that its not really appropriate for me to comment any further, she told Times Radio.

Asked whether there was a wider cultural problem among Tory MPs, Ms Keegan said: No, I certainly dont see a cultural issue among Conservative MPs. I see individual incidents which are all investigated as such.

Mr Blunt has been the MP for Reigate, Surrey since 1997. Last year he announced he would not be standing for the Conservatives at the next election.

He joined the army aged 18 for officer training at Sandhurst, serving in the 13th/18th Royal Hussars until 1990. He left the army to join the world of politics, though failed to get elected as an MP in West Bromwich East in 1992.

He went on to serve as Malcolm Rifkinds special adviser during Mr Rifkinds terms as defence secretary and then foreign secretary, between 1993 and 1997. He was elected as Conservative MP for Reigate on 1 May 1997.

In 2010, while he was prisons minister, he announced he was splitting from his wife Victoria, revealing he had told his family that he had decided to come to terms with [my] homosexuality.

A statement from his office at the time said that there was no third party involved and asked the media to respect his familys privacy. The couple have one daughter and one son.

He has served as opposition spokesperson for Northern Ireland, shadow minister in the Department of Trade and Industry, opposition whip and shadow minister for national security.

Crispin Blunt will not stand in the next election (PA)

Mr Blunts arrest is the latest in a string of allegations involving sitting Conservative MPs, dealing another damaging blow to Rishi Sunak and his vow to get tough on sleaze.

Former Tory MP Peter Bone was suspended on Wednesday for six weeks for bullying and sexual misconduct against a staff member. MPs approved the lengthy sanction against the MP for Wellingborough, who has been sitting as an independent since losing the Conservative whip.

In September, Tory whip Chris Pincher resigned from his government role after allegations that he had groped two people while drunk.

A standards committee upheld allegations Mr Pincher groped two men at Londons exclusive Carlton Club while he was the Conservative deputy chief whip, in a scandal that hastened Boris Johnsons downfall.

In May 2022, it emerged that a Tory MP in his 50s had been arrested on suspicion of indecent assault, sexual assault, rape, abuse of position of trust and misconduct in public office.

The Tory whips office said at the time that the MP had been asked not to attend the Parliamentary estate while an investigation is ongoing. The latest extension to his bail is to mid-February.

Last December, another senior Conservative MP was reported to the police over allegations they committed rape and a string of sexual assaults. The MP was reported to the Metropolitan Police by a group of colleagues, themselves Tory MPs.

And a Conservative MP was arrested on suspicion of rape in 2020. He was never identified and police took no further action after an investigation.

The Prospect and FDA unions representing Westminster staff both called for a vote to automatically exclude MPs under investigation for violent and sexual offences from accessing the parliamentary estate.

Mike Clancy, general secretary of the Prospect, said: How many more cases like this will it take for action to be taken to protect staff and visitors on the parliamentary estate?

The FDAs Dave Penman also called for a vote so MPs can recognise the responsibility they have to protect the staff and visitors.
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British artist David Shrigley has said that George Orwells Nineteen Eighty-Four is really important today while discussing his decision to create 1,000 new editions of the book.

New project Pulped Fiction has seen the 55-year-old launch limited edition copies of the 1949 dystopian novel, constructed from pulped second-hand copies of The Da Vinci Code.

The book store pop-up is taking place at an Oxfam charity shop in Swansea that made headlines in 2017 after it asked customers to stop donating copies of the Dan Brown thriller due to the amount they had been given.

Speaking on the significance of Orwells dystopian novel and why it forms part of the art project, Shrigley told the PA news agency: I think its (the book) really important in that people in every sort of political climate project meaning onto it, and over the years its sort of meant different things to different people

I mean, George Orwell, I think, always intended it to be a warning, it wasnt necessarily a parable of an existing state, but it was kind of a warning of what can happen when we dont value our democracy.

We dont have to think too hard about the way that our current society is ordered to see some parallels.

Shrigley said that the process of pulping the books to form something new was a very direct reference to the Ministry of Truth, the workplace of protagonist Winston Smith whose job involves rewriting historical documents.

The novel came out of copyright in 2021 and Shrigley cited this as the main reason behind his choice to use the book in his project.

The artist said that Pulped Fiction is certainly not a piece of literary criticism and mentioned that both of the books presented themselves to him in different ways, for different reasons.

He also said that a series of strange coincidences had linked the project to Orwells Nineteen Eighty-Four.

The artist said: The narrative of this project is one that sort of happened by accident

But there seem to be so many things that have happened in this project that are strange coincidences.

He explained: Getting a book designer involved. It turned out that the book designers grandfather proofread the original Nineteen Eighty-Four and then his sister actually proofread this version of it.

Shrigley added: That was just one of many very strange coincidences, and sort of odd things that happened along the way.

The paper mill we used burned down, for example, which was quite difficult to deal with.

Some of the limited edition books will be available for sale at Oxfam Books & Music, Swansea, during the weekend starting October 28, with remaining copies sold online after the event.

Each book in the edition has been signed and numbered by Shrigley and fragments of the original novels remain on the paper.

Alongside the book, the artist is releasing a 40-minute documentary telling the story of how the project came to be and the hurdles his studio faced along the way, from Covid 19 lockdown to the now burned down papermill he had partnered with.

During the launch weekend there will be free hourly screenings of the documentary at Swanseas Volcano Theatre.

David Shrigley: Pulped Fiction is taking place from October 28-29 at Oxfam Books and Music, Swansea, Wales.
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Parliament has been formally prorogued by a king for the first time in more than 70 years, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II  the UKs longest-reigning sovereign.

The announcement was read out on behalf of her son and current monarch, Charles, who came to the throne in September 2022, at a traditional ceremony in the House of Lords marking the end of the parliamentary session attended by both MPs and peers.

The last time Parliament was prorogued by a king was by the late Queens father in 1951.

Elected members, led by Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, filed out of the Commons after their attendance in the upper chamber was requested by Black Rod Sarah Clarke, a senior Lords officer tasked with overseeing the proceedings.

The royal address, read out by the Lords Leader Lord True, set out legislation passed during the parliamentary session and other measures taken by the Government.

These included the controversial Illegal Migration Act, which legislated for those arriving in small boats to be deported to their country of origin, or to Rwanda, after ministers struck a 140 million deal with the east African country.

But the Kigali plan is tied up in the courts, with a deportation flight yet to take off.

Other contentious pieces of legislation to make it onto the statute books included the Public Order Bill, aimed at combating disruptive protests and guerrilla tactics used by groups such as Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion.

The fiercely opposed Strikes (Minimum Service Levels) Act will allow ministers to impose minimum levels of service during industrial action by ambulance staff, firefighters, railway workers and those in other sectors deemed essential.

Other pieces of legislation were also grant royal assent, including the long-awaited Online Safety Act, which imposes new legal duties on big tech companies and service providers, in response to concerns abut the impact of harmful material on children.

As each Act was read out, the clerk said in Norman French Le Roy le veult or The King wills it, to indicate royal approval.

Under the previous monarch, the declaration has been La Reyne le veult or The Queen wills it.

Delivering the prorogation address to Parliament on behalf of the King, Lord True said: My thoughts turn first to my beloved mother, the late Queen.

I wish to thank you for the sympathy and support that has been extended to my family and myself from across both Houses of Parliament, the nation and beyond.

My mother set an example of selfless dedication and devotion to the United Kingdom and the wider Commonwealth during her long reign.

An example to which I rededicated my own life of public service at my accession a little over a year ago.

I remain deeply grateful for the expressions of loyalty which were offered at that time.

Both Houses of Parliament will return on Tuesday November 7.

The Kings Speech announcing the Governments legislative programme for the new parliamentary session will take place on that day.
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UK Border Force teams are set up in Egypt to quickly assist British nationals to escape from Gaza when a crossing is opened, the Prime Minister has revealed.

Rishi Sunak said he is pushing for a pause in the fighting between Israel and Hamas to allow aid to reach Palestinians and also create a safer environment for UK citizens to leave the bombarded 25-mile strip.

The Foreign Office is in contact with around 200 UK nationals in Gaza, the Prime Minister said.

The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza is the only border point in the territory that is not controlled by Tel Aviv.

Israel has only in recent days agreed to allow aid into the country through the crossing, having besieged the Hamas-ruled area to prevent essentials such as water, food and fuel from reaching more than two million Palestinians.

If there is a possibility for our nationals to cross the Rafah crossing, were ready to get them in and bring them back Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

The border crossing into north-east Egypt is likely to be the main exit route for those trapped in Gaza but it is currently closed other than for aid deliveries.

Cairo has reportedly blamed Israeli bombings around Rafah for it not being open for foreign nationals to pass through.

Mr Sunak has called for temporary breaks or specific pauses in the violence that could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed.

Fewer than five Britons are believed to be among the hostages as officials fear that some of those missing have been killed.

But many more are currently trapped in Gaza as Israel continues to conduct air strikes and raids on the territory in its fightback against Hamass assault on October 7 that saw 1,400 people, mainly civilians, killed on Israeli soil.

The Prime Minister, taking questions after a speech in central London about artificial intelligence on Thursday, said the UK Government recognised that for British nationals to leave there needs to be a safer environment, which of course necessitates specific pauses, which are distinct from a ceasefire.

He added: Were very keen to be able to bring them out and bring them home.

What I can tell you is weve pre-positioned Border Force teams to Egypt.

So that if there is a possibility for our nationals to cross the Rafah crossing, were ready to get them in and bring them back.

It is not something we can do immediately but when the moment arises, well be ready to take it quickly.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden chaired a Cobra meeting on Thursday to discuss the situation in the Middle East and next steps on pushing for the release of Hamass captives, with about 220 people thought to be being held.

It is about ensuring we have cross-governmental ministerial grip on this situation, he told Sky News ahead of the meeting.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman told reporters during a briefing later that ministers were working night and day to secure the release of UK hostages.

It comes after the Israeli military said that troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, saying it was in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion.

Thousands of Palestinians have already died in retaliatory strikes by Israel and an even greater loss of life could come if it launches a full invasion aimed at crushing Hamas, the militant group which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The UK Government, which has continued to back Israels right to defend itself as long as it toes the line of international law, is continuing to resist calls for a ceasefire.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a cessation of violence.

But the Prime Ministers official spokesman told reporters a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas.

The No 10 official said he would not speculate about whether ministers would support a ceasefire if Israel succeeded in rescuing hostages from Gaza.

Mr Dowden would not be drawn on how long Britain envisages any pause in the fighting, which is also backed by Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party, would need to last for.

Mr Sunaks deputy said he was heartbroken by the mounting casualties in Gaza but said Israel could not eliminate Hamas without there being some civilian impact.

The way to stop further losses of innocent civilian lives is to remove the terrorist threat and to move to a position where we can restore stability and peace to this region, he told Sky News.
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The UK is scrambling to bring thousands of Afghans granted sanctuary in Britain but trapped in Pakistan to safety on chartered planes after Islamabad warned all those without visas would face arrest within days.

Thousands of Afghans  promised refuge in Britain after serving alongside coalition forces in Kabul  have been stranded in Islamabad for months awaiting relocation.

This was further delayed in November when Rishi Sunak stopped government flights and decided no Afghans should arrive here without sorting their own accommodation first.

However, The Independent revealed last week that the government was forced to reverse that decision after a legal challenge from two Afghans stuck in Pakistan following fears for their safety amid a crackdown on those whose visas have expired.

Pakistan on Thursday gave a final warning to all immigrants in the country illegally, including hundreds of thousands of Afghans, to leave before 1 November. Those who fail to leave will be sent to a detention centre before being deported.

Pakistan said it took the decision after Afghan nationals were found to be involved in crimes, smuggling and attacks against the government and the army, including 14 out of 24 suicide bombings this year.

All the illegal immigrants have been identified. The state has a complete data, interim interior minister Sarfraz Bugti told a news conference.

The UK government has however received assurances from the Pakistan government that any Afghans eligible for UK relocation will be protected.

This was given on the basis that UK politicians relocate them quickly out of Pakistan. Diplomats have now agreed that chartered flights out of Islamabad will continue until December, local media reported.

A young boy pulling a suitcase as refugees arrive from Afghanistan at Heathrow Airport, London. (PA)

UK chartered flights to transfer the 3,000 or so refugees to Britain have now been agreed with the Pakistan government and ministers have said all Afghans eligible for the UKs resettlement schemes will be housed in hotels if needed.

The Independent understands that the first flight will take some 200 Afghans from the capital to the UK on Thursday morning, with 12 chartered flights in total. Ministers have also committed to relocating hundreds of Afghans, eligible for UK resettlement, who are stuck in Iran.

Those arriving on Thursday will be housed in spare armed forces service homes.

Senior Tory MP Tobias Ellwood, former chairman of the defence select committee, told The Independent: I hope the immediate operation can be expedited to bring those Afghans out of Pakistan.

Mr Ellwood added: There are a wider, awkward questions for us on what we do longer-term with Afghanistan, because the refugee situation is only going to get worse as the country economy collapses and there is a humanitarian catastrophe.

The Independent previously revealed that police had raided one of the UK-funded hotels in Islamabad last month and arrested a number of Afghans whose visas had run out. They were only released after an intervention by the British High Commission (BHC).

A government spokesperson said: The UK has made an ambitious and generous commitment to help at-risk people in Afghanistan and, so far, we have brought around 24,600 people to safety, including thousands of people eligible for our Afghan schemes.

We continue to honour our commitments to bring eligible Afghans to the UK, with new arrivals going directly into settled accommodation where possible.
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A womens rights barrister has hit out at the regulatory body for not taking action against colleagues who verbally abused her in foul-mouthed rants on Twitter.

Dr Charlotte Proudman, a family law lawyer who specialises in violence against women, reported more than 50 barristers, who were predominantly male, to the Bar Standards Board over a series of public messages. She believes the criticism is an attempt to silence her from speaking out about violence against women and girls.

But despite being acknowledged as unpleasant and inflammatory, the board said it would not take action because the messages do not meet the threshold for regulatory action.

Tweets sent by currently practising and retired lawyers, seen by The Independent, brand Dr Proudman a c***t, a w*****, a narcissist, and dreadful  as well as accuse her of idiocy. Other posts have questioned what Dr Proudman studied, accuse her of being a Russian bot, imply she is acutely mentally ill and accuse her of posting flirtatious photos which undermine her views.

Dr Proudman, 35, who is also a feminist campaigner, said the abuse has had a profound effect on her emotional wellbeing. She told The Independent: It has made me fearful of being around other barristers in networking events, in court, or social situations.

I dont know if someone who has called me a narcissist or a c*** online is there. That is an intimidating environment. I often feel uncomfortable. I could be against them in court. People are allowed to disagree with me but keep it clean.

A letter from the Bar Standards Board addressed to Dr Proudman, seen by The Independent, states they acknowledge that a number of the tweets you forwarded to us were unpleasant and inflammatory.

But the letter adds: We have however reached the conclusion that they do not reach the threshold that would lead to regulatory action against those who made them, where those individuals are on our register.

Charlotte Proudman (Jooney Woodward)

Dr Proudman said barristers had told her she should be reprimanded by the board - something which she finds threatening and makes her feel like her workspace has become quite dangerous to be in.

Criticism and abuse from her colleagues fosters a herd mentality which sends out a message to the average Twitter user they can abuse me, she added.

Discussing the regulators decision to take no action on her complaint, the lawyer said she felt deeply let down and really disappointed.

Dr Proudman added: I felt that they were complicit in the abuse that I'm experiencing from barristers because they've done nothing to protect me in this. They have just given them a carte blanche licence to carry on. It just sends out a signal to me that they don't take misogyny, sexism, and bullying against women seriously at the bar.

She added: I do family law predominantly, and in the family courts, all of the victims are silenced. So when they leave the court doors, they cant talk about anything that has happened in those hearings, she said.

I see that silence as a way of preventing them from speaking out about the abuse theyve suffered and changing the system. And so Im damned if Im going to let them do that to me. As an advocate, I have every right to speak out, and I feel like I have a public duty to speak out about the inadequacies and the failings within the justice system.

A spokesperson for the Bar Standards Board declined to comment.
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Suicide and serious violence have risen by nearly a quarter in mens prisons in England and Wales, with self-harm skyrocketing to an all-time high in the womens estate, as the government scrambles to ease the strain on jails overcrowded to breaking point.

Ninety-one male inmates died by suicide in the 12 months to September  a rise of 24 per cent on the previous year, and the worst toll since 111 people died in 2016, a record high year which prompted the government to launch an internal inquiry.

The rate of serious prisoner-on-prisoner assaults also soared by 23 per cent, official figures show, with nearly 2,000 such violent incidents in the year to June, and a further 748 serious attacks on prison staff.

And in womens prisons, the number of self-harm incidents rose by an alarming 63 per cent to a grim new record of 20,248, up from 6,262 a decade earlier, while assaults on staff also hit an all-time high of 220 in the second quarter of this year  six times as many as during the same period in 2013.

That, to me, feels like a system that is under enormous strain, Charlie Taylor, HM chief inspector of prisons, told The Independent. Those are metrics that go up when the pressure goes up.

With just a few hundred spare prison places left, and many jails already running way over capacity with inmates forced to double up cells, justice secretary Alex Chalk has started releasing prisoners early and has announced plans to spare more low-level offenders jail in order to free up space.

Andrew Neilson, of the Howard League for Penal Reform said the statistics published on Thursday revealed how pressure on people living and working in our overcrowded and under-resourced prison system has been allowed to build and build, adding: The need for a change of direction is clear.

Overcrowding and staffing issues  including an exodus of experienced prison officers  have seen inmates stuck in their cells for 23 hours a day, forced to choose between showering, calling loved ones, or accessing education and rehabilitation schemes.

Calling the increase in self-inflicted deaths incredibly concerning, Mr Taylor noted that some prisons which have suffered the most suicides, such as HMP Leeds, are also the most overcrowded.

Prisons are being used as a lender of last resort for women failed elsewhere in the system, the Prison Governors Association told The Independent (PA Archive)

Where a prison is really struggling generally, the risk of suicide just becomes higher generally because staff arent able to look after people properly, theyre not given the attention they need, and its easier to miss things. People are in despair and being locked in their cells for long periods of time.

Understaffing means prisons dont have time to assess new people coming in for certain suicide risk factors, Mr Taylor warned, adding: If those red flags arent being picked up early on then the danger is that tragically people will be taking their own life, and weve seen it in prisons weve been really concerned about.

Also highlighting the really worrying rise in serious assaults, the chief inspector said: As soon as a prison starts feeling unsafe, it just has a corrosive effect on everybody whos working in that environment.

Everybody is feeling more anxious, theyre more likely to get the retaliation in first, less likely to want to go out into education, youll get more people self-isolating, and prison officers feel less safe if theyre having to break up fights, Mr Taylor added.

The increase in self-harm incidents in womens prisons  described by the chief inspector as just absolutely staggering  comes despite the number of women self-harming remaining relatively stable in recent years.

Prisons in England and Wales are reaching capacity, official figures show (Michael Cooper/PA)

Prison is usually [used as] a place of safety, we are the lender of last resort in a lot of cases, Carl Davies of the Prison Governors Association told The Independent, adding there are alternatives to custody that could be better used to support many of these women.

If there was better social care, mental health provision, housing provision, drug and alcohol services in the community, prisons would not have as many women in them.

Citing difficulties securing hospital access for prisoners, Mr Taylor said the rise in self-harm could also reflect issues with understaffing and a lack of suitable training. These are often the most vulnerable, very unwell women, some of whom should quite frankly be in secure hospital, not in prison, he said.

There is a group of women who are absolutely trapped in a cycle of mental health difficulties, substance issues, homelessness, crime and prison, to the extent that for many of them prison is a revolving door and sometimes it provides some stability that they just dont have elsewhere in their life, Mr Taylor said.

Recalling a vist to HMP Styal in Cheshire, he said: Women there, when they left the prison, were not bothering to take their property with them, they were leaving it for the prison to look after for them, because they knew they were going to be back. And the prison was the most stable place in their life.

I think thats an incredibly depressing indictment on all of us.

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: The safety of all staff and prisoners is our priority, which is why we ensure the most vulnerable prisoners have access to the round-the-clock care and mental health services.

We are working tirelessly to ensure our hardworking staff are protected through our 100m security investment, X-ray body scanners specialist prison dogs and body-worn cameras.

On self-harm in womens prisons, they added: High rates of self-harm incidents overall are, unfortunately, driven by a small number of women who self-harm frequently which is why we are working with healthcare partners to improve mental health support.
Beijing (Gasgoo)- On October 26, an ambitious partnership was unveiled as Stellantis N.V. plans to invests approximately 1.5 billion to acquire a 20% stake in Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer Leapmotor.

Signing ceremony; photo credit: Stellantis

This strategic move establishes Stellantis as a significant shareholder in the Chinese company. Alongside this investment, the deal outlines the formation of Leapmotor International, a joint venture predominantly led by Stellantis, with a 51/49 ownership structure.

A notable aspect of this collaboration is that Leapmotor International secures exclusive rights for the export, sale, and manufacturing of Leapmotor products outside Greater China. This groundbreaking agreement signifies a first-of-its-kind global electric vehicle relationship between a major automaker and a Chinese dedicated NEV maker.

The primary goal of this partnership is to bolster Leapmotor's presence in China, the world's largest automotive market, and leverage Stellantis' established global commercial network to expedite the expansion of Leapmotor's brand in other regions, with a particular focus on Europe. By tapping into Leapmotor's highly innovative and cost-efficient NEV ecosystem in China, Stellantis aims to meet its core Dare Forward 2030 electrification targets, while also exploring opportunities for mutually beneficial synergies. The joint venture anticipates commencing shipments in the second half of 2024.

Both companies view Leapmotor's NEV product offerings as a complement to Stellantis' existing technology and portfolio of iconic brands, promising to deliver more accessible mobility solutions to a global customer base. Stellantis will have a significant presence within Leapmotor, securing two seats on the company's Board of Directors and appointing the CEO of the Leapmotor International joint venture.

Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "As consolidation unfolds among the capable electric vehicles start-ups in China, it becomes increasingly apparent that a handful of efficient and agile new generation EV players, like Leapmotor, will come to dominate the mainstream segments in China. Through this strategic investment, we can address a white space in our business model and benefit from Leapmotors competitiveness both in China and abroad."
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Unionists blockaded a weapons factory in Kent for six hours on Thursday, in protest over the war in Israel.

Instro Precision Ltd, a subsidiary of Israeli drone manufacturer Elbit systems, produces military equipment unions say is exported and used by Israeli forces.

The group of around 150 demonstrators included health workers, teachers and academics from unions including Unite, UNISON, the NEU, UCU, the BMA and BFAWU.

An organiser said the group had been at the factory since 7am on Thursday and blocked two entrances for six hours.

Our presence sent a clear message to the UK government, said Jeanine Hourani, 29, of the Palestine Youth Movement. We want to see an end to British complicity in Israeli war crimes, an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and the urgent entry of humanitarian aid.

By gathering as workers outside the factory we categorically rejected the utilisation of British workers in enabling the genocide in Gaza.

Trade unionists said the UK was complicit in the bombardment of the Gaza strip (Workers for a Free Palestine)

Abbie, an NHS junior doctor and BMA member said: As an NHS worker, seeing fellow doctors and their patients being killed is unbearable, and following the announcement that the healthcare system in Gaza has collapsed, many of us felt we had no choice but to take this action.

The protest was organised in response to a call by Palestinian trade unions to stop Israeli war crimes and many held placards saying the same.

More than 7,000 people have been killed in Gaza in the last three weeks, the Palestinian authorities say. Israel reports that 1,400 people were killed in Hamas attacks on 7 October.

The escalation of violence has led to calls from the international community for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access, which the UK and US have blocked at the UN.

Teachers, doctors and academics were all present in urging the UK government to Stop arming Israel (Workers for a Free Palestine)

Elbit systems has been the centre of multiple direct action protests by Pro-Palestinian supporters including one in April last year which led to convictions for obstruction and criminal damage for two protestors.

Kent Police confirmed they made a routine attendance at the protest this morning and that no arrests were made. Instro Precision has been approached for comment.
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The Home Office is facing legal action over its plans to house asylum seekers at an RAF base, a move that could scupper its plans to scale back the use of hotels.

Refugee charity Care4Calais has accused the home secretary of housing asylum seekers illegally at RAF Wethersfield in Essex. The former airbase started receiving asylum seekers in July and around 250 migrants are based there.

The Home Office had hoped to house up to 1,700 asylum seekers at the airfield but Care4Calais argues in a pre-action letter that the plans must be stopped immediately.

Lawyers for the charity will claim that Wethersfield is a de facto detention centre and not suitable for long-term accommodation, with asylum seekers confined to the camp, apart from at certain times when a bus is able to take them out.

An aerial view of RAF Wethersfield in Essex (PA)

They will say it cannot be rationally regarded as suitable accommodation under the Immigration and Asylum Act, because the base is ringed by security fences and has only one entrance and exit, which opens onto a country road with no pavements.

Buses are irregular and the base is located 2.4km (1.5 miles) from Wethersfield village and about 19km (12 miles) from the nearest large town Braintree.

In one recent incident, asylum seekers were bused to Braintree only for the return bus to not turn up on time  leaving them to sleep rough on the streets overnight, the charity reported.

The Independent has previously reported on an incident where an Iranian man apparently collapsed while on hunger strike at Wethersfield, in a video passed to Care4Calais. The group said staff at the centre failed to get the man emergency medical help while one person, who the charity claims is a staff member, could be heard saying: Yes, but he had three meals a day. Three meals. That was his choice not to eat guys.

The pre-action letter also argues that the asylum seekers are segregated from the surrounding community by the restrictions. With the remoteness of the site, it is effectively impossible for residents to interact with the local community, the letter says.

Immigration minister Robert Jenrick told MPs this week that 50 hotels will be closed by January (Parliament TV )

The legal action comes as the Home Office tries to scale back its use of hotel accommodation for asylum seekers. Immigration minister Robert Jenrick told MPs this week that 50 hotels will be closed by January and the government will not stop there.

He said accommodating asylum seekers in disused military sites has been a factor in freeing up space.

If Care4Calaiss legal challenge gets to court, it will apply for all the asylum seekers to be moved out of Wethersfield immediately and for no more to be moved in.

The government has until 7 November to respond to the pre-action letter. Steve Smith, CEO of Care4Calais, said: Whilst under previous governments, asylum seekers would have been integrated into UK communities through dispersal accommodation, this current government has given up on any pretence of trying to integrate asylum seekers into UK society, by putting them in de facto prison camps and barges.

Falsely imprisoning asylum seekers behind barbed wire fences, placing them under 24/7 surveillance, restricting their liberty and separating them from any semblance of community, is now the chosen policy of this government. We believe it is unlawful.

A Home Office spokesperson said asylum seekers were free to come and go from Wethersfield, adding: Despite the number of people arriving in the UK reaching record levels, we continue to provide accommodation for asylum seekers who would otherwise be destitute to meet our legal obligation.

Accommodation offered to asylum seekers, on a no-choice basis, meets our legal and contractual requirements and they are free to come and go.
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Listeria bacteria have been found in some packets of Sainsburys chorizo, leading to a product recall.

The Food Standards Agency confirmed Listeria monocytogenes had been found in packages of Sainsburys Taste the Difference Spanish Chorizo Iberico Ring and advised customers not to eat it but to return it to the store for a full 3.25 refund.

Symptoms caused by the organism are said to be similar to flu and can include high temperature, muscle aches and pains, chills, feeling or being sick and diarrhea. The FSA warned that infection can be more severe in rare cases and cause serious complications including meningitis.

Those more vulnerable to listeria infections include those aged over 65, pregnant women and their unborn babies, babies younger than one month and people with weakened immune systems.

Listeria infections can be severe and even deadly for vulnerable people including those over 65 (Science Photo Library)

An FSA fact sheet said listeria is found in a range of chilled ready-to-eat foods such as prefaced sandwiches, butter, cooked sliced meats and smoked salmon, and can cause severe or life-threatening foodborne illness.

All dates for the 200g packet of chorizo from the 23 November 2023 up to and including 16 January 2024 are affected.

A statement by Sainsburys read: Sainsburys is recalling the above product. Point of sale notices will be displayed in all retail stores that are selling this product. These notices explain to customers why the product is being recalled and tell them what to do if they have bought the product. Please see the attached notice.

Sainsburys apologised for any inconvenience caused and advised customers to visit their website or ring their careline with any queries.
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There is no more funding for a new pay offer to striking school staff in Scotland, the First Minister said as a new wave of action was announced.

Unison is the only union not to have accepted the most recent offer for non-teaching staff, and fresh walkouts are due to take place on November 1 in four council areas.

On Wednesday, the union also announced staff in South Lanarkshire, Dumfries and Galloway, Edinburgh and Fife will strike on Wednesday November 8.

Speaking to the PA news agency, First Minister Humza Yousaf said there will be no more money for local authorities to offer increased pay to staff.

There is no more funding, Ive been really clear about that, he said.

We have significant additional funding in order to get a really good pay deal on the table for our local government workers, and thats why two out of three trade unions have accepted the deal.

Unite and the GMB suspended planned action after the deal, which represents a minimum increase of 2,006 for workers on the Scottish local government living wage and at least 1,929 for those above that rate, was accepted by their members.

But 90% of Unison members voted in a ballot to reject it.

The pay rise will be introduced on April 1 next year based on a 37-hour working week.

The living wage of 10.85 will rise to 11.89 per hour  equivalent to a 9.6% increase.

The offer also means council leaders will establish an advisory group to achieve a minimum of 15 per hour in local government.

Cosla said the offer is as far as local government can go without impacting on essential services and jobs locally.

Unison Scotlands head of local government Johanna Baxter said: Despite our repeated calls for Cosla and the Scottish Government to get back round the table for meaningful discussions, we have had no invitations to even exploratory talks.

The union is committed to reaching a resolution to this dispute as soon as possible.

There is still time for Cosla and the Scottish Government to get back round the negotiating table to explore every avenue to reaching a negotiated settlement and avoid further disruption for parents and students.

The strength of feeling amongst Unisons 91,000 local government members, who voted overwhelmingly to reject Coslas latest pay offer, is clear. They are determined to continue to fight to get an improved pay offer.

A large proportion of schools in Glasgow, East Renfrewshire and Renfrewshire will be closed during the strike next Wednesday.

In Glasgow, all nurseries, primary schools, and additional support learning schools will close, while secondary schools will only open for S4S6 pupils. Glasgow Gaelic Secondary School will be closed to all pupils.

In East Renfrewshire, all primary schools, nursery classes within schools and Isobel Mair School will be closed, while secondary schools will be closed to S1-S3 pupils.

The position will be similar in Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, with arrangements for S4-S6 pupils still being finalised in the latter.

Unison Scotland chair of the local government committee Mark Ferguson said: The current offer amounts to a real-terms pay cut and adds further stress to a dedicated workforce already suffering from the cost-of-living crisis.

Cosla and the Scottish Government need to give school staff a decent wage rise, fund any increase properly and commit to implementing a minimum underpinning rate of pay of 15 per hour for all local government workers.

Cosla resources spokeswoman Katie Hagmann said: The ballot result from Unison was very disappointing given the strength of the offer on the table.

I would like to make the following points: Firstly, Scotlands council leaders value their workforce.

Secondly, we have listened to our trade unions, met all their asks and worked with Scottish Government to put an incredibly strong half a billion pound pay package on the table  which our other trade union partners have voted to accept.

Finally, offering almost 10%, or a 2,006 pay increase for our lowest paid workers, which the unions specifically asked for, and 1,929, or at least 5.5%, for everyone else is as far as local government can go without impacting on essential services and jobs locally.

A Scottish Government spokesman said local government pay negotiations are a matter for local authorities as employers and unions, and he encouraged those involved to continue discussions.

He said the Government has already committed to providing 235 million in 2023-24 to support a meaningful pay rise for local government workers, and provided assurances over funding in 2024-25.

He said: The Scottish Government and Cosla will continue to work together to minimise disruption in the event of further industrial action.

Edinburgh City Councils education, children and families convener, councillor Joan Griffiths, said: I, along with many parents and carers, feel extremely frustrated that pupils may miss yet more time in schools due to this latest round of strike action.

There is still time to get this resolved if the Scottish Government and Cosla act now to avoid the planned action. Educating our children and young people is a priority for us and Im sure everyone wants this to be resolved quickly to avoid any more lost learning.

Fife Councils head of education and childrens services Shelagh McLean said: We will be assessing the potential impact this action could have in Fife and will work to minimise the effect of this locally.

We cannot rule out closures of school buildings to pupils during any industrial action and we will be in touch with parents and carers as soon as possible with more information.

A spokesman for South Lanarkshire Council said: We have just received formal notification from Unison and are considering the consequences for education services on the proposed strike day.

We will make sure parents and carers are kept up to date through schools and our social media channels.
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Israels ambassador to Ireland has said she needs to respond to claims about her country after being criticised during the week for accusing the Irish president of misinformation.

Dana Erlich had told the Sunday Independent that she was frustrated by President Michael D Higginss comments suggesting Israel had breached international law.

He said last week that Israel stating its intention to breach international law reduced protection for civilians under the Geneva Conventions to tatters.

Ms Erlich claimed this was misinformation, and said announcing Israels intentions in advance was in accordance with international law.

The myth or assumption that Israel is breaking international law. We are not Dana Erlich

She also said that Ireland was not a neutral country in relation to Israel and the Palestinians.

Irelands Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney said the ambassadors comments were not helpful, and Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik said Ms Erlich had overstepped the line and her position is under question.

Asked about her comments in relation to Mr Higgins, Ms Erlich told RTEs Drivetime programme: There are some moments in history that you cant be silent.

And obviously I do not wish to criticise any Irish officials, but when things are said about my country I need to respond to that, especially at a time of war when there is a lot of misinformation being circled around in the social networks, in the media.

Since I am the representative of the Israeli people here in Ireland, I need to respond to anything that is said about that and to make sure that I try and give the most accurate and extensive information that I have.

Asked what the misinformation was, Ms Erlich replied: The myth or assumption that Israel is breaking international law. We are not.
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The head of BBC news channels Jess Brammar has been named as the new editorial executive of BBC content.

During her time at the corporation, Ms Brammar has overseen the launch of the new BBC News channel in April 2023, following the merger with BBC World News to create a single 24-hour TV channel.

She will take over the role from former editorial executive Rachel Jupp next week when she returns from parental leave, the PA news agency understands.

In an internal memo from the BBCs chief content officer, Charlotte Moore said Ms Brammar would be a key member of my senior team and use her experience to advise and co-ordinate output and editorial changes.

In September 2021, Ms Brammar hit the headlines following claims BBC board member Sir Robbie Gibb had tried to block her from being hired as the corporations news editor on political grounds.

It came after her impartiality was questioned when old tweets emerged in which she was critical of Brexit and the prime minister.

At the time, director of BBC News Fran Unsworth said: BBC journalists are hired from a variety of different backgrounds, but while working at the BBC, they leave any personal opinions at the door.

Any individual should be judged on how they do their job at the BBC, not on what they have done in different organisations with very different objectives. It is extremely disappointing that anyone should receive public and personal criticism  or online abuse  simply for applying for a job at the BBC.

Ms Brammar was previously the editor-in-chief of HuffPost UK and before that worked as deputy editor of BBC Twos Newsnight, before stepping up as joint acting editor during which time the programme won several Royal Television Society (RTS) awards.

Paul Royall will continue in his role as acting executive news editor while the BBC recruits a permanent replacement.
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Ireland must appreciate the differing perspectives of EU members on the Israel-Hamas conflict as the bloc strives to agree a united call for a humanitarian ceasefire, the Taoiseach has said.

Leo Varadkar expressed hope that a common declaration would emerge from talks at the European Council summit across Thursday and Friday.

He said the precise language of the statement did not matter as much as ending the violence.

Mr Varadkar arrived at the summit a day after Ireland advised all its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country amid fears the conflict in Gaza could escalate.

Im hopeful that we can agree a statement to call for a pause, a cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire. I think the vast majority of countries want that Leo Varadkar, Taoiseach

Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin said on Thursday that the precautionary step was taken due to the possibility of a sudden escalation.

In Brussels, Mr Varadkar warned that escalation would be playing into the hands of Hamas.

On the EU negotiations over a joint position, the Taoiseach added: We mightnt use the exact same language as the United Nations uses, but I hope we will, as the European Union, call for a humanitarian ceasefire, a humanitarian pause. Im not obsessed about what language we use.

What we want is the killing and the violence to stop, so that humanitarian aid can get into Gaza where Palestinian people, innocent Palestinian people, are suffering, and also to allow us to get EU citizens out and we have about 30 Irish-Palestinian citizens in Gaza. Were keen for them to be able to leave Gaza if they want to leave and thats currently not possible.

He said it was important that EU discussions on the conflict took cognisance of the differing perspectives of member states.

Im hopeful that we can agree a statement to call for a pause, a cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire. I think the vast majority of countries want that, he said.

When it comes to matters of foreign policy in the European Union, theyre done by consensus, not by majority vote, and thats something we have to bear in mind.

We also need to bear in mind and respect where other countries are coming from, you know, particularly countries that were involved in the terrible events and the terrible things that happened to Jewish people in the 30s and 40s. We need to understand where theyre coming from, and why so many Jewish people had to return to Israel, their ancestral homeland, because of the events of the Holocaust.

Secondly, we need to bear in mind that a lot of countries in the European Union have been subjected to terrorism by extremist Islamic groups, the Bataclan (theatre) in Paris, the attacks on the metro in Spain, we need to be wise to that  that countries are coming at this from a very different perspective.

In Ireland, we have a lot of sympathy for the Palestinian people, often driven by our own historical experience. But to get a consensus among 27 people, were going to have to compromise, were going to have to understand each other.

I believe itll be possible for us to come out of here tomorrow with a unified stance as a European Union. Even if we dont all agree on emphasis and detail, I think it is possible to have a common position and that will then guide everything else everyone else says from there on.

Mr Varadkar said any ceasefire would be meaningless unless all sides observed it.

It is one thing for the United Nations and the European Union to call for a ceasefire or humanitarian pause, would the Israeli Defence Forces, Hamas, Islamic Jihad abide by it? We dont know, he said.

And, of course, a ceasefire, a pause, is worth nothing unless everyone abides by it.

Lets not forget where this started, or at least this phase of the conflict started, by a very brutal attack by Hamas, the Islamic resistance movement, on civilian targets in Israel with a view to causing a provocation, with a view to making Israel invade Gaza, in the hope that they would escalate tensions in the region and cause the Saudi/Israeli peace talks to come to an end.

Thats actually one of the points Ill be making, is its really important that we dont play into the hands of Hamas here, what Hamas wants is an escalation, they want to see this conflict spread to the wider region.

There are other people, quite frankly, in other parts of the world who would like to see that too, because it would take focus off Ukraine, so its very important that we dont fall into that trap.

Mr Varadkar also criticised Irans influence on events in the region.

There is clear evidence that the Iranian government is supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon, is supporting Hamas in Palestine, is supporting the Houthis in Yemen, and is a destabilising actor in world affairs, he said.

Back in Dublin, Mr Martin explained the decision to change the guidance to Irish citizens in Lebanon.

Irelands Department of Foreign Affairs has also advised against travel to Lebanon, citing a highly volatile situation.

Our basic advice is that we do believe it would be wise to consider leaving Lebanon, we say that with great regret, the Tanaiste told reporters.

But there is potential for regional escalation and we can see an increase in activity in the northern border. And while there are commercial options available, it is our considered advice that people should really think about taking those commercial routes and options that are currently available, that may not be available if anything sudden happens.

We have no sort of metric, obviously, in terms of the timing of this, and things can happen pretty quickly. And weve seen that, and its a very volatile situation in the Middle East right now.

So the precautionary principle applies, and thats essentially what we are saying.
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A new gallery dedicated to a renowned Scottish artist will ensure his work will reach audiences old and new, his daughter has said.

The Wyllieum, named after George Wyllie, is scheduled to open on March 28 in Greenock, Inverclyde.

The exhibition George Wyllie: Spires will feature at the gallery from its opening date until August 11.

The gallery is housed in the new Ocean Terminal on Greenocks waterfront and was designed by Scottish architect Richard Murphy.

Co-curated by Will Cooper, director of the gallery, and sculptor Sara Barker, the space will also host a series of talks, events and workshops.

The Wyllieum will house the namesake artists largest art collection in the world, showcasing his legacy through a number of displays.

Wyllie was born in 1921, originally training as an engineer with the Post Office before joining the Navy in 1942 until 1946.

He later worked as a customs and excise officer for 30 years before becoming a full-time artist in his late 50s.

Some of his notable works include the Straw Locomotive (1987), and Paper Boat of the Origami Line (1989)  which was a paper boat so large he could stand on it when it was launched on the River Clyde.

Another well known work is the Running Clock outside Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow.

Wyllie was made an MBE for services to arts in 2005, and he died aged 90 in 2012.

Mr Cooper said: I am in awe of the dedicated hard work of impassioned supporters who have turned their love for George into the Wyllieum, the first purpose-built gallery in the west of Scotland for over a decade.

Our opening programme is hugely exciting  well open the gallery with George Wyllie: Spires, a survey of one of Georges most ambitious protects.

Bringing Sara Barker in to co-curate the show will ensure these works are brought into the 21st century. I cant wait to welcome visitors into our building.

Wyllies daughter Louise said: I originally created the Friends of George Wyllie in 2011 to present a year-long festival celebrating my fathers work. At the time he was living in a care home.

As well as sharing his work with the wider world, I wanted to stimulate him and remind of what he had achieved as an artist.

The award-winning Whysman Festival, which ran throughout 2012, marked his 90th birthday.

Sadly, he passed away before the end of it, but he knew the wheels were in motion and that his legacy would live on.

The success of this multifaceted festival gave me the platform necessary to develop this and led to the creation of the George Wyllie Foundation in 2013.

My working contribution with the foundation came to an end in 2021.

It has been a joy to witness fresh energetic people such as new Wyllieum director, Will Cooper, lead on the future of bringing my fathers work to audiences old and new.

As a family, we are excited about his plans. In his job as a customs and excise officer, my father spent a lot of time at the docks in Greenock where the Wyllieum now sits. His family is invested in seeing this cultural space thrive.

We recognise in Will and foundation chair Michael Dale the drive and ability to deliver a unique arts space for my fathers beloved Inverclyde and, of course, for Scotland.
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Queens University in Belfast has been described as an incredibly special place by US special envoy Joe Kennedy III.

Mr Kennedy has been leading a delegation of senior US business and investment leaders on a four-day visit to Northern Ireland.

After taking part in a breakfast event with Stormont politicians at Titanic Belfast, he went on to Queens where he officially opened the new Students Union building.

He was reminded of a previous US investment in Northern Ireland with one of the DeLorean cars parked at the entrance as he arrived on Thursday morning.

While the car factory in west Belfast went out of business, the car itself was immortalised in the blockbuster hit Back To the Future.

This is an incredibly special place, Mr Kennedy said, describing the university as having become a bit of a home away from home for me over the last year.

Mr Kennedy also hailed the conference held at the university in April to mark the 25th anniversary of the Belfast Agreement peace deal, at which he said so many recognised the extraordinary potential, opportunity, history and future of the people of Northern Ireland.

That commitment is embodied in this building, Ive driven by it now a number of times over the course of the past several months, the contrast between this iconic monument that stands behind us, a landmark on this island and for Europe, he said, referring to the main university building across the road.

The glistening glass windows and the thriving life blood of this university that you can feel inside these walls.

It is an extraordinary testament to the past and the bright future that the students here represent.

Mr Kennedy also said he was particularly moved by a statue of George Mitchell, the chairman of the 1990s peace talks in Belfast and later chancellor of Queens University.

He said Mr Mitchell is a hero for those of us that serve in public office and public service in the United States.

Queens Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Ian Greer said that the new building has become a hub for students in Belfast with half a million people passing through its doors in the past year.

From the initial ideas to the finishing touches on the social staircase, it took thousands of hours and hundreds of people to bring this building to life, he said.

Every day, the building is buzzing with hundreds of students as they grab a coffee, plug in their laptops for some quiet reading, get some valuable support or grab a gig in the Mandela.

With almost 40,000 students provided with support from our Student Information Point over the past year and 200 each day getting support from the Pantry, One Elmwood has been a welcome and warm hub to many of our students, particularly during this particularly difficult financial time; and has become the go-to place for information, support, on the house breakfasts and free basic food.

One Elmwood has been a very stable port during some very choppy waters and we look forward to developing this wonderful building to continue to deliver for the needs of our students.
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Ministers will attend a Cobra meeting later on the Middle East, after the Government joined calls for a humanitarian pause in the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict.

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said he would be chairing the meeting later, as global attention remains fixed on the crisis in Gaza.

It comes after Rishi Sunak said temporary breaks or specific pauses in the violence could allow British nationals and hostages to be freed and aid to be provided to the Gaza Strip.

The Government has continued to back Israels right to defend itself, with Defence Secretary Grant Shapps saying an expected ground invasion would fall under the countrys right to defend itself as long as the action targeted Hamas.

Israeli military said that troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, saying it was in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion.

Benjamin Netanyahus government is continuing to pummel the small strip of land, which is home to more than two million Palestinians.

Mr Dowden said that the Cobra meeting would be bringing together representatives from the relevant Government departments.

This is the way of bringing different bits of Government together to understand what further steps we can do and to assess the current situation.

We will discuss the hostages and the wider situation in the region and will also discuss securing humanitarian aid.

It is about ensuring we have cross-governmental ministerial grip on this situation.

The Government is continuing to resist calls for a ceasefire, with the backing for a humanitarian pause supported by Labours Sir Keir Starmer.

More than 80 MPs have urged the Government to call for a cessation of violence, as five UK nationals remain missing, some of whom are believed to be hostages in Gaza.

Mr Dowden would not be drawn on how long any such pause might last.

He told Times Radio that a pause would be different to a ceasefire, which is a total cessation of hostilities, which I dont think recognises properly the situation that Israel finds itself in, in respect of this attack from Hamas which has to be dealt with by Israel.
With Gasgoo Daily, we will offer daily important automotive news in China. For those we have reported, the title of the piece will include a hyperlink, which will provide detailed information.

AVATR 12 to hit market on November 10

AVATR, the premium new energy vehicle brand jointly backed by Changan Automobile, Huawei, and CATL, officially announced the AVATR 12 is set to hit the market November 10. Positioned as a mid-sized sedan, the AVATR 12 made its first appearance at the IAA Mobility 2023.

Photo credit: AVATR

Caocao Mobility forms strategic partnership with Gotion High-tech

On October 23, Geely-backed ride-share service platform, Caocao Mobility, signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Gotion High-tech. This comprehensive collaboration, spanning both business and capital, will commence with the development of customized vehicles for shared mobility services. The two companies will work together to strengthen their strategic cooperation, driving the development of the new energy ecosystem in the ride-share industry.

Huaibei Municipal Government partners with Chery Holding

On October 25, a strategic partnership agreement signing ceremony between the Huaibei Municipal Government and Chery Holding was held in Wuhu city, Anhui Province. Chery Holding will further focus on its business development in Huaibei, expanding its project portfolio in the region and fostering deeper collaboration in various sectors.

Lenovo Vehicle Computing launches next-generation ADAS platform

During the Lenovo Tech World 2023 event, Lenovo Vehicle Computing announced the launch of its new ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) platform.

Suzhou city launches China's first holographic-sensing highway supporting Level 4 autonomous driving

On October 24, Suzhou city, Jiangsu Province inaugurated China's first holographic-sensing smart highway, designed to meet the requirements for level 4 autonomous driving, including vehicle-to-infrastructure communication.

Tesla starts delivering refreshed Model 3 in China

Tesla announced on October 26 that it has begun delivering of the Model 3's refreshed version in China.

AITO M9 bags over 15,000 pre-orders so far

AITO, the premium new energy vehicle brand jointly developed by SERES and Huawei, on October 25 announced that its latest flagship, the M9 large-size smart SUV, has already amassed over 15,000 pre-orders.

CATL, Zhongcheng Dayou forge partnership on energy storage project

CATL recently signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Zhongcheng Dayou to co-work on an energy storage project, according to a press release the power battery giant issued on October 25.

Stellantis to acquire 20% stake in Leapmotor with 1.5 billion of investment

On October 26, an ambitious partnership was unveiled as Stellantis N.V. plans to invests approximately 1.5 billion to acquire a 20% stake in Chinese new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturer Leapmotor.
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Rishi Sunak has said mitigating the risk of human extinction because of AI should be a global priority alongside pandemics and nuclear war.

AI will pose major security risks to the UK within two years and has the potential to enhance terrorist capabilities, new analysis by the Sunak government has warned.

The technology could aid terror groups capabilities  including propaganda, bioweapons and attack planning  according to a report released as the PM made a major speech on the breathtaking pace of change.

The official report by the Government Office for Science also warned that, by 2025, AI is expected to increase the frequency and sophistication of cyberattacks, scams, fraud and other crimes.

Speaking at the Royal Society on Thursday morning, Mr Sunak said the changes brought by AI could be as far-reaching as the industrial revolution, or the arrival of electricity or the internet.

The PM said he agreed with experts who believe the extinction threat from AI should be treated like the threat of pandemics and nuclear war, as he called for a global expert panel to address the issue.

Mr Sunak told a press conference that AI would bring the chance to solve problems we once thought beyond us  but it also brings new dangers and new fears.

The PM also claimed that the UK was doing far more than any other country to keep you safe, as he announced that the government will establish the worlds first AI safety institute in the UK.

Quoting a statement made by hundreds of AI experts earlier this year, Mr Sunak said: Mitigating the risk of extinction by AI should be a global priority alongside other societal-scale risks such as pandemics and nuclear war.

Rishi Sunak delivers a speech on AI at the Royal Society (PA)

On the major risks ahead, the PM said: Get this wrong and AI could make it easier to build chemical or biological weapons. Terrorist groups could use AI to spread fear and destruction on an even greater scale.

He added: Criminals could exploit AI for cyberattacks, fraud or even child sexual abuse  there is even the risk humanity could lose control of AI completely through the kind of AI sometimes referred to as super-intelligence.

Mr Sunak said he did not want to be alarmist and highlighted the benefits AI could bring  praising its potential use in the NHS to diagnose and prevent strokes and heart attacks, as he announced an extra 100m for AI treatments for previously incurable diseases.

The PM also confirmed that he had invited China to his global AI summit at Bletchley Park next week  arguing that was the right thing to do because the worlds leading AI powers should discuss the threats and opportunities.

The Tory leader said it was not an easy decision to invite Chinese officials  and admitted that he could not say with 100 per cent certainty that they will turn up.

Deputy PM Oliver Dowden said China had accepted an invitation. He told BBC Radio 4s Today programme: It is the case that they have accepted but  It is the case that you wait and see who actually turns up at these events. We do expect them to come.

The decision to invite Beijing has caused controversy in some quarters, including among Tory MPs.

Mr Sunaks predecessor Liz Truss immediately slammed the move, saying she was deeply disturbed and called on the prime minister to cancel the invitation. The ex-PM hit out at the Chinese state which she said had used and abused technology to aid its oppression of millions and attacks on freedom and democracy.

The massive popularity of services like ChatGPT is an example of what Sunak refers to as a breathtaking pace of change (AFP/Getty)

It comes as the White House revealed that US vice-president Kamala Harris will attend the UK summit at Bletchley Park.

Before the US vice president attends the summit, she will deliver a speech outlining her administrations approach to AI next Wednesday, the day before the event kicks off.

Asked if the Biden administration could distract from the UK conference, Mr Sunaks official spokesman. Its right that we work collaboratively with the US on this  that is entirely right.

Meanwhile, the new UK government report warns that AI is likely to make cyberattacks, faster, more effective and larger scale. This will happen via more tailored phishing methods or by replicating malware. Another risk is what is termed the erosion of trust in information.

Deepfakes, where fake videos are created using someones likeness and what are termed hyper-realistic bots, a form of fake social media profile risk creating fake news, personalised disinformation, manipulating financial markets and undermining the criminal justice system, the report warns.

The Government Office for Science documents, collated using sources including UK intelligence, even says a wider threat to the future of humanity from AI cannot be ruled out.

One warns: There is insufficient evidence to rule out that highly capable future frontier AI systems, if misaligned or inadequately controlled, could pose an existential threat.

It also warns that AI could disrupt the labour market by displacing human workers. It suggests a so-called robot tax  a levy on businesses profiting from the replacement of workers by AI  might be needed to protect the economy.

Peter Kyle, Labours shadow science secretary, urged Mr Sunak to back up his words following the speech. We are still yet to see concrete proposals on how the government is going to regulate the most powerful AI models, he said.

Technology secretary Michelle Donelan said that by publishing the report the UK is the first country in the world to formally summarise the risks presented by this powerful technology. She said: We cannot harness its benefits without also tackling the risks.
UK Border Force agents are in Egypt on a mercy mission to help stricken British nationals escape from Gaza as soon as a crossing opens, Rishi Sunak has revealed.

Around 200 British nationals are trapped in the besieged enclave, the prime minister said, as Israel continues to step up its preparations for a full-scale ground invasion.

Mr Sunak said he wanted to bring those caught up in the fighting home and promised that, while the UK cannot do so immediately ... when the moment arises - we'll be ready to take it quickly.
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The former chief executive of NatWest infringed on Nigel Farages data protection rights when she talked to a journalist about his relationship with Coutts bank, the information watchdog has ruled.

Mr Farage has called for NatWest to cut the severance pay of former boss Dame Alison Rose after the finding  accusing her of overseeing a woke culture at the bank.

The Information Commissioners Office (ICO) said the disclosure of Mr Farages data, amid the furore of the decision to close his accounts, had been unacceptable.

The former CEO resigned earlier this year after admitting a serious error of judgment by discussing with a BBC journalist Mr Farages relationship with Coutts, which is owned by NatWest Group.

She said she did not share any personal financial information, but was wrong to respond to any question raised by the BBC about this case.

The banks board is set to meet today to discuss her severance package, which could reportedly be more than 10m in pay, stock and bonuses.

Writing in the Telegraph, Mr Farage said Dame Alison had dragged its name through the mud and introduced a woke agenda at the bank, as well as breaking data protection laws by discussing his account with the BBC.

The ex-Ukip leader and Brexit campaigner added: To reward these failings with a massive sum of money would be wrong. It is clear that, to some NatWest group staff, my debanking was a great big joke.

In an angry tirade against the bank earlier this week, Mr Farage also revealed the internal documents referred to him a crackpot, sketchy and a fool.

Nigel Farage has fumed against Natwest group after bank closure (PA Wire)

Mr Farage was also described in one of the emails as an awful human being, while another said they would have paid a significant sum to have been the one to tell the GB News presenter his account was shut.

Dame Alisons departure came hours after the board said it had full confidence in her, meaning the bank was forced to backpedal after the statement was given.

The ruling comes at a sensitive time for NatWest, which is due to announce quarterly results on Friday.

In a statement on Wednesday, an ICO spokesperson said: Following a thorough review of the complaint raised with us, we have concluded our investigation.

We upheld two parts of the complaint - namely, we found that an individual employed by Natwest shared information when they should not have done, and that by doing so they infringed the complainants data protection rights.

We have been clear with the bank that these actions were unacceptable and should not happen again. However, in view of the fact the individual in question resigned her post and the bank has commissioned its own investigation, we do not intend to take any further regulatory action at this time.

A NatWest spokesperson said: We fully co-operate with the ICO in its assessment of any customer complaint, but it would not be appropriate for us to comment on this individual case.
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Rishi Sunak is under fire from a former Conservative prime minister for the second time in a month  over his controversial decision to invite China to his flagship artificial intelligence summit.

A defiant Mr Sunak rebuffed calls from within his own party to exclude the country from the conference, to be held at the home of the UKs Second World War codebreakers.

Mr Sunak insisted there could be no serious strategy developed to manage the risks posed by AI without the input of one of the world leaders in the technology.

But his predecessor Liz Truss slammed the move, saying she was deeply disturbed and called on the prime minister to cancel the invitation.

Ms Truss hit out at the Chinese state which she said had used and abused technology to aid its oppression of millions and attacks on freedom and democracy.

The former PM warned Beijing views AI as a means of state control and a tool for national security.

And she said that the concerns which led the current deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden to decide to strip Huawei of its role in the UKs 5g network over the next few years should have informed decisions about invitations to the Bletchley Park summit.

She added that no reasonable person expects China to abide by anything agreed at this kind of summit, given their cavalier attitude to international law.

Liz Truss warned against China invite (PA Archive)

Both Ms Truss and another former Tory PM David Cameron rounded on Mr Sunak earlier this month after he used his party conference speech to scrap the second leg of the HS2 network to Manchester and announced plans to ban some young people from ever being able to buy cigarettes.

The row comes as Mr Sunak faces intense pressure over his attitude to China.

Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith, one of a number of China hawks in the party, has accused the government of a stance that smells of appeasement.

It comes as the White House revealed that US vice-president Kamala Harris will attend the UK summit at Bletchley Park.

In a major speech ahead of the gathering Mr Sunak warned of the serious risks posed by AI  including of terrorists using the technology to make bioweapons and even human extinction.

Defending his move to include China in talks, the PM said: I know there are some who will say (China) should have been excluded but there can be no serious strategy for AI without at least trying to engage all of the worlds leading AI powers.

Mr Sunak added: That might not have been the easy thing to do but it was the right thing to do. But he conceded that even though they had accepted the invitation: I can't say with 100 per cent certainty that China will be there.

While Chinese officials will take part in the first day of discussions on Thursday, they will not be invited to the second, which will involve like-minded countries. Mr Sunak will convene a small group of companies and experts, while science secretary Michelle Donelan will lead ministerial meetings on the second day.

Despite Mr Duncan Smiths view that the decision to invite China was astonishing  arguing that engaging with them only makes us look weak  some China hawks welcomed the idea of Beijing officials being at Bletchley Park.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Rishi Sunak (Getty/PA)

Senior Tory MP Bob Seeley, who has pushed for a tougher stance on Beijing, told The Independent: Its broadly good news that [Mr Sunak] has invited China.

The foreign affairs select committee member said: It poses a risk that China will see what everyone is up to, and then do their own thing. But you dont want them to shut them out of the conversation before the conversation has started. There is always the hope that China will change.

Mr Seeley added: The worst case for society will be used by bad rulers to effectively analyse dissent before it happens and make opposition to dictatorial regimes impossible  just like George Orwell predicted. So theres a risk China will abuse it.

There will be an open society approach, a closed society  and the battle will be for countries in the middle, like countries India, the Middle East and south America.

Before the US vice president attends the summit, she will deliver a speech outlining her administrations approach to AI next Wednesday, the day before the event kicks off.

Asked if the Biden administration could distract from the UK conference, Mr Sunaks official spokesman. Its right that we work collaboratively with the US on this  that is entirely right.

Earlier, Mr Sunaks deputy Oliver Dowden had said that ministers would wait and see whether Chinese officials actually came to the UK for the meeting.

It is the case that you wait and see who actually turns up at these events, he said, although he added: We do expect them to come.

Since he took over at No 10 a year ago, Mr Sunak has adopted a softer approach to China than Ms Truss.

She had been preparing to label Beijing a threat to the UK before she was ousted from office. Mr Sunak has instead described China as an epoch-defining challenge.
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Sir Keir Starmer is battling to convince Labour MPs he has taken the right stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict  with up to four members of the shadow cabinet said to be on resignation watch last night.

The Labour leader is facing growing unrest among his own MPs, with dozens having signed a motion urging the British government to call for an immediate ceasefire.

Sir Keir was forced to hold crunch talks with a group of Muslim Labour MPs to address anger at his handling of the crisis  including comments in which he appeared to back the cutting of power and water to Gaza.

Sarah Owen, the shadow minister for faith, and Rachel Hopkins, shadow Cabinet Office minister, are among up to four frontbenchers considering whether to quit, according to The Times.

Frontbencher Yasmin Qureshi, a shadow equalities minister, also defied the leadership by calling for a ceasefire at PMQs this week. A Labour spokesperson did not say whether she would be disciplined.

Meanwhile, more than 150 Muslim Labour councillors have signed a letter to Sir Keir urging him to back a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The Labour leader has joined the prime minister in backing humanitarian pauses to deliver aid to Gaza as it faces airstrikes from Israel ahead of a ground invasion.

But Sir Keir has not backed the longer-lasting ceasefire, and he is still trying to ease anger within the party about appearing to back cutting off power and water in Gaza. That was in an LBC interview a few days after the 7 October Hamas terror attack.

The comments  which he has since sought to qualify  prompted resignations of several Labour councillors and angered MPs.

Keir Starmer visits the South Wales Islamic Centre mosque (Labour Party)

A number of sources from the Wednesday meeting  held between Sir Keir, his deputy Angela Rayner, and around a dozen Muslim MPs, including shadow exports minister Afzal Khan  described it as a constructive exercise in which grievances were shared.

One MP who was at the meeting said Sir Keir was in listening mode, adding that MPs had a chance to get things off their chest. The mood was described as generally quite civilised but also quite firm.

Mr Khan added: There was a consensus on the point that a ceasefire needs to be called. I dont think hes quite there yet. He said that things are moving, things are evolving, were already on the pause idea but we have to build consensus.

A veteran Labour MP told The Independent Sir Keirs initial comments on the conflict were not in any way acceptable, but said he had not fully recognised the mistake.

The MP said a majority of Labour MPs want Sir Keir to call for a ceasefire in Gaza, adding that there is lots of talk about it on the back benches. The sooner he calls for it, the better. You dont want to wait for thousands more people to be killed, he added.

MPs are also citing a YouGov poll from 19 October where more than three-quarters of Britons said they would back an immediate ceasefire.

The South Wales Islamic Centre accused Sir Keir of gravely misrepresenting his talks with Muslim leaders during a visit to the mosque at the weekend.

The Labour leader sparked frustration after he shared photos of the meeting on X, arguing that he had made clear it is not and has never been my view that Israel had the right to cut off water, food, fuel or medicines.

Sir Keir also released a statement on Wednesday saying that the amount of aid and essentials going into Gaza is completely insufficient and calling for supplies to be urgently ramped up.

Labour MP Khalid Mahmood, who was among those present, said it was a very good meeting. He told BBC Radio 4s PM programme: It is not a resigning issue, because we belong to a party for a purpose. When you are outside of that you have no say, so I wouldnt encourage anyone to resign.

A letter from 150 councillors, from areas including Barking and Dagenham, Birmingham, Bradford, Blackburn, Bolton and Glasgow, said: No nation, no people or community should have to endure collective punishment and the same should be the case for the Palestinian people.

On 10 October, Sir Keir was asked on LBC if cutting off power and water to Gaza  home to more than 2 million Palestinians  was an appropriate response by Israel. I think that Israel does have that right. It is an ongoing situation, he said.

It was not until 20 October that he sought to clarify his position. I was saying that Israel has the right to self-defence, and when I said that right I meant it was that right to self-defence, he told broadcasters. I was not saying that Israel had the right to cut off water, food, fuel or medicines.
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Several NHS trusts in England have been accused of using foreign doctors as cheap labour, with training schemes branded exploitative, an investigation has found.

Foreign doctors can come to work at English hospital trusts for two years as fellows to gain experience to implement in practice in their home countries.

The programme is part of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges Medical Training Initiative (MTI) scheme. A number of doctors are sponsored, while a proportion are directly employed by a trust.

However, an investigation by The British Medical Journal (BMJ) claims some fellows are paid less than other employees, and have fewer benefits.

According to the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), since the scheme began in 2009 there have been almost 7,000 trainees from countries such as Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

All doctors should be paid the correct rate for their work, regardless of whether they are on the MTI scheme or not AoMRC

The BMJ said it found an agreement between the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) with University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust led to trainees being paid less than trust-employed workers.

It claims senior fellows from Pakistan who worked at UHB as grade three specialty trainee (ST3) registrars or above were paid a stipend of between 2,700 and 3,600 a month by CPSP, which is the equivalent of 32,400 to 43,200 tax-free a year.

They are not guaranteed overtime pay or pay for on-call work.

The BMJ said UHB would not confirm the exact equivalent salary details, but according to NHS payscales, ST3 doctors employed by the trust were paid 51,017 in 2022/23 and 55,328 a year in 2023/24 as a basic gross salary, excluding any overtime or enhanced hours payments.

One consultant, who spoke to the BMJ anonymously, claimed UHB was using fellows as cheap labour, although another senior medic at the trust praised the scheme for its training opportunities, but highlighted a lack of equal pay and rights.

However, UHB said that it was not representative to compare the two pay scales.

It said The BMJ had compared the net tax-free pay for international training fellows to the gross pay on an ST3 NHS doctor. The Trust said that the net pay for an ST3, after taxes and student loan assumptions, could be around 2,670 which is reasonably equivalent.

An AoMRC spokesperson said: The issues the BMJ is raising here are very concerning. All doctors should be paid the correct rate for their work, regardless of whether they are on the MTI scheme or not.

But this is a matter between the doctor and the NHS organisation that employs them.

Under the deal, fellows at UHB also do not get paid parental leave, the BMJ claimed.

Programmes which encourage the upskilling of medical practitioners from countries with less-developed healthcare systems have been described by the WHO as a brain gain and not a brain drain UHB spokesperson

One doctor told the publication she was sent home when she revealed news of her pregnancy.

She said: One lady from the international team seemed angry and said we dont expect you guys to get pregnant while youre here and that my fellowship would be terminated. It was a shock to me how she spoke.

Michael Newman, an employment lawyer at law firm Leigh Day, told The BMJ that every worker is entitled to maternity leave after they begin employment by law, and they are entitled to statutory maternity pay after 26 weeks of employment.

He described the conditions of the scheme as exploitative.

In light of the BMJ investigation, CPSP is set to review and overhaul some guidelines, but said the scheme has improved healthcare in Pakistan.

A spokesperson for UHB said the programme undoubtedly benefits the NHS system, but in return it benefits the overseas healthcare structure.

They added: Programmes which encourage the upskilling of medical practitioners from countries with less-developed healthcare systems have been described by the WHO as a brain gain and not a brain drain.

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, told The BMJ: As we do not directly employ staff who are a part of the medical trainee scheme we are, therefore, not responsible for their remuneration.

Our trust has not received any concerns from our MTI colleagues, however, should they have any that they would like to raise with us directly, we would be more than happy to look into them.

She added that any overtime would be paid at the bank rates used for all trust medical staff and that fellows all receive 28 days free accommodation on arrival.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said it has recruited three MTI fellows under the CPSP scheme, who are due to start in November, but does not have any in post at present.

A spokesman said: The job description, person specification and rota patterns have been reviewed and approved by the dean.

An NHS spokesperson said: While the salary of these positions is agreed between the individual trust and their international partner, fellows play an important role in treating NHS patients at the same time as learning new advanced clinical skills in a high-quality and fair learning environment, before returning to their home country.
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A record number of 18-year-olds from deprived areas have applied to the most selective universities and courses, according to newly released data from Ucas.

The university admissions service has published its application data for courses with an early October deadline  which includes medicine, dentistry and veterinary degrees, as well as courses at Oxford and Cambridge.

The data showed that 3,160 18-year-olds from the most disadvantaged backgrounds, defined as coming from an area of the UK in the bottom 20% for the proportion of young people participating in higher education, had applied for these courses.

This figure was up 7% from 2,950 applicants during last years admissions cycle.

The interim chief executive of Ucas, Sander Kristel, said it was encouraging to see students from the most disadvantaged areas aiming high with their choices for next year.

There was also a 6% increase in UK-domiciled applicants declaring receipt of free school meals, which Ucas said was in the context of rising numbers of pupils in England receiving them.

In total, 39,310 18-year-olds from the UK applied by the October 16 deadline, the second highest number on record.

However, there was an 18% decrease in the total number of 19-year-old UK applicants  to 5,580 from 6,770 last year.

There was also a 7% drop in the number of 18-year-olds from the UK applying to study medicine  at 11,750, compared with 12,700 last year.

The narrowing of the disadvantage gap, against the backdrop of a global pandemic, shows the effort we have made as a sector, to ensure everyone in society can aspire to study the most competitive courses Sander Kristel, interim chief executive of Ucas

China remains the largest source market for international applicants, with 4,340 students from the country applying for courses with an October deadline.

The largest growth in international applicants since last year has come from the US and Singapore  with applications from the US increasing by 9% and Singapore by 6%.

Mr Kristel said: Its encouraging to see a record number of young students from the most disadvantaged areas aiming high with their choices for next year.

The narrowing of the disadvantage gap, against the backdrop of a global pandemic, shows the effort we have made as a sector, to ensure everyone in society can aspire to study the most competitive courses.

The deadline for all other undergraduate courses is January 31 2024.
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The Eurovision Song Contest delivered a 54 million boost to Liverpools economy, according to research.

The city was chosen to host the competition in May 2023 after last years winner Ukraine was unable to hold it due to the Russian invasion.

Although the contest did not see success for the UK, with entrant Mae Muller finishing second from last, research announced on Thursday showed it had left Merseyside businesses with something to celebrate.

Results of five independent evaluations  commissioned by a steering group led by Liverpool City Council  showed restaurants, accommodation providers, shops, bars and transport networks benefited from the 54.8 million boost to the city region economy.

The figures showed 473,000 people attended Eurovision events in the city, while 50,000 people and 367 organisations engaged with education and community programmes which ran alongside the contest.

Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram said: From the hundreds of thousands of visitors who flocked to our region for a fortnight of fun and frivolity, to the tens of millions around the world who tuned in, we gave millions of people a Eurovision they will never forget.

While thats an incredible result in itself, the contest was also a vital shot in the arm for our local economy, bringing in more than 54m, creating thousands of jobs and opportunities for local people and showcasing our brand to an international audience.

None of this would have been possible without the hard work of everyone who truly embraced the Eurovision spirit and made our visitors feel so welcome.

I said all along that nowhere can throw a party quite like us  and now we have the results to prove it.

According to the figures, 250,000 people visited the Eurovision Village, which took over the citys Pier Head for the 10 days leading up to the final, won by Swedish entry Loreen.

Research showed the city was a hit with Eurovision superfans, with 99% of members of the contests official fan club, the OGAEs, saying they felt welcomed.

A survey of visitors showed 89% of those questioned felt the event was safe, 88% praised its inclusivity and 96% would recommend Liverpool as a destination to visit.

Eurovision Minister Stuart Andrew said: It is fantastic to see the impact that hosting the Eurovision Song Contest has had on Liverpool. The city put on a fantastic display of culture and creativity, showing solidarity with our friends in Ukraine and highlighting what unites us all.

This research demonstrates the positive impact of hosting major events and I hope that we can continue to build on this success. The citys director of culture Claire McColgan said it was an honour to deliver Eurovision.

She said: Ive never known time move so fast as it did across those seven months and it has been a real pleasure to digest these impact reports and relive the experience once again and reassure myself it wasnt just a crazy dream.

They underline the fact Liverpool has the skill, agency-wide teamwork and the creativity to deliver time and time again.
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A German tourist who went missing in a wildlife park in northern Zimbabwe was found alive by rescuers three days later.

Andreas Hoberg was found in good health on Tuesday at the Matusadona National Park, said the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.

Before going missing, he was last seen at a park shop buying a drink before going for a game drive around 3.30pm on Saturday.

By 6pm, the car rental company he had hired for the safari was unable to locate him on the GPS tracking system.

Tinashe Farawo with the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority said the rescue involved deploying a helicopter, several vehicles and sniffer dogs to scour the remote wildlife park.

We were gravely worried. We are happy he is well. He says his car developed a mechanical fault. Its a white car, so we were hopeful we would find it, he said.

The age of the German tourist was not revealed.

Zimbabwes 1,400-sq-kilometre Matusadona National Park is inhabited by lions, buffaloes, leopards, elephants and all the expected dangerous wildlife found in the bush, Mr Farawo said.

The park is flanked by Lake Kariba in the north and two perennial rivers  the Ume and the Sanyati. The park gets its name from the undulating Matusadona hills that form part of its water-rich landscape.

In 2020, Zimbabwean authorities reported the recovery of two park rangers bodies, who, after arresting four poachers, were later thrown into Lake Kariba by the suspects. The rangers had detained the poachers overnight before attempting to take them by boat to Kariba town.

Additional reporting by agencies
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- Shanghai INGIN Automotive Technology Co., Ltd. ("INGIN Technology"), a Chinese smart closure solution provider for automobiles, recently announced the successful completion of its Series C+ financing round, which raised for the company nearly 100 million yuan.

The fresh round is led by NIO Capital. According to INGIN Technology, proceeds from the round will be used as the supplemental capital the company requires to accelerate its global business expansion, and to support its development of new intelligent automotive entry & exit technologies.

Photo credit: INGIN

Established in 2017, INGIN Technology specializes in the R&D, production, and sale of such automotive components as intelligent front cabin system, intelligent side door system, intelligent tailgate system, intelligent rear wing system, and intelligent control system. The company is committed to becoming a global leader in automotive intelligent power closure solutions with exceptional integration capabilities. INGIN Technology also possesses a vehicle-level experimental center.

The intelligent automotive closure system involves both "entry and exit" of people and items. It employs electronic door locks, domain controllers, electric actuators, and various sensors with integrated perception algorithms to detect the vehicle's posture, surroundings, obstacles, and pedestrians. The system automatically adjusts the opening and closing angles, heights, speeds, and closing forces of the car doors, trunk, and front cabin hatch, enhancing the ease of vehicle access and enabling "electrification" and "intelligence" in vehicle entry and exit. INGIN's intelligent closure system can also recognize and automatically avoid obstacles, and provide multiple intelligent control methods, such as gestures, voice commands, and body posture recognition, thus enhancing convenience and safety in vehicle usage.

Since its inception, INGIN Technology has been committed to technology innovation and has achieved several industry "firsts." According to the company's introduction, in 2019, it became the first company in China to develop electronic suction locks and export them to mainstream European car manufacturers. In 2020, it was the first to complete the development of an intelligent door domain controller. In 2021, its actively controlled rear wing system made a significant breakthrough from "0" to "1," greatly improving the vehicle's range. In 2022, it filled various technological gaps in the country with its electronic side door locks. In 2023, it became the first in the industry to develop an intelligent front cabin system.

INGIN Technology has already received substantial investments worth hundreds of millions of yuan in total from well-known investment entities, including Xiaomi Intelligent Manufacturing Fund, SLAC, Foryou Group, Infinite Capital, BAIC Capital, and others.

NGIN Technology has become a tier-one supplier for major domestic automakers such as SAIC Motor, SAIC-GM, Changan Auto, Geely, Chery, Dongfeng Motor, Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen Automobile, GAC Motor, and Changan Mazda, as well as new energy vehicle manufacturers like NIO, XPeng, AVATR, IM Motors, VOYAH, JIDU, HiPhi, and smart. Additionally, INGIN has also proactively expanded its presence overseas, providing automotive intelligent entry and exit products to international renowned brands such as Maserati, Peugeot, Citroen, Alfa Romeo, and JEEP.
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A security guard was injured in a surprise attack at an Aspenresort after a bear found its way into the hotels kitchen.

The male security guard received a report on Monday around 11pm that there was a bear somewhere in the hotel, so he went to investigate, Colorado Parks & Wildlife said in a statement on Tuesday.

When he got to the kitchen, he startled the bear as he went around a corner into another area of the kitchen.

The bear then attacked the guard by swiping at him and knocking him down to the ground.

The guard luckily got away and called 911 after sustaining injuries to his back.

The Aspen Police Department arrived at the scene, and he was transported to hospital, where he received treatment for the scratches on his back and was released the next day.

CPW wildlife officers arrived at the scene just after midnight to try to find the bear and found out how the wild animal got into the hotel.

They believe that the bear managed to break in through a series of doors near the courtyard.

They also got a description of the bear from witnesses and specific identification markers to locate the bear.

CPW have told people around Aspen to be bear aware" (Colorado Parks and Wildlife)

By the next morning, the wildlife officers were able to locate the bear near the hotel, but they said that due to public safety, they were unable to safely tranquilise and capture the bear.

They followed up to say that their officers would return to the area on Tuesday evening to find the bear, although it is unclear if they have yet to capture the surprise attacker.

CPW issued a warning to people around Aspen to be bear aware as the bears are still active as they prepare to go into hibernation.

The officers warn that human-bear conflicts have been on the rise due to the increase of people taking to the Colorado countryside for camping and hiking trips.

There are an estimated 17,000 to 20,0000 black bears found in Colorado, which can weigh between 175-275 pounds depending on their gender, according to CPW.

While they are not naturally aggressive creatures, if they are intent on getting food, they can harm people who get in their way.

The CPW say that any bear they see become too comfortable around humans have to be destroyed.
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A seven-year-old was killed when he was hit by a tow truck belonging to the New York Police Department in Brooklyn.

The incident occurred at around 7.50am on Thursday while the boy and his mother were crossing the street at a crosswalk on Myrtle Avenue in Fort Greene, New York City, police said.

No parent wants to start their day losing a loved one to any form of incident; it is heartwrenching for all of us, Mayor Adams said in a statement.

The NYPD tow truck driver allegedly tried to make a right turn onto North Portland Avenue when the boy was struck, Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey said.

Emergency first responders arrived at the scene and pronounced the young boy dead.

The tow truck driver, a 54-year-old woman, remained at the scene after the incident, police said.

Mary Lynne Werlwas, a woman who had lived in the area for 24 years, witnessed the aftermath of the incident when she went out to move her car.

She heard a commotion coming from the crosswalk and saw a large crowd surrounding a woman sitting in the middle of the road with a figure under a white sheet, according to The New York Times.

Ms Werlwas said the woman was distressed, saying, My baby is dead.

The incident occured along Myrtle Avenue near the North Portland and Myrtle Avenue intersection in Fort Greene (Google Maps)

Another witness, Tyana Carter, also told the outlet that the boy was allegedly riding a bright green scooter next to his mother, who was pushing another child in a stroller as they entered the crosswalk.

When she came around the corner, she hit the kid and she rolled over him, claimed Ms Carter.

At that time in the morning, Ms Carter said many children were on their way to school.

Debra Williamson, who has lived in the neighbourhood for eight years, told the outlet that the area where the victim was killed is a hotspot for speeding and running lights.

This is terrifying to me, Ms Williamson said. I knew this was coming, but I dont know what to do.

Mr Maddrey confirmed he was at the scene.

"Our heart goes out to the family of that young boy whose mother, the school, his teachers who were also on the scene, a very tough] scene to be at this morning," said Mr Maddrey.

Police say the investigation is ongoing.
 Close Bryan Kohbergers capital murder trial delayed

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Bryan Kohberger returned to court today for a crucial hearing to argue why the grand jury indictment against him should be dismissed.

Judge John Judge denied the motion, but first made an unexpected decision to allow cameras in the courtroom.

The 28-year-old criminology PhD student is currently awaiting trial for the murders of University of Idaho students Kaylee Goncalves, Madison Mogen, Xana Kernodle and Ethan Chapin.

Both the defence and the prosecution have been against cameras in the courtroom, but the media and the victims families have fought for cameras to be allowed.

Earlier this year, Mr Kohbergers attorneys filed the motion to dismiss the murder charges against him, citing a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence and prosecutorial misconduct.

They tried to argue errors in grand jury instructions, but the judge said it is the same instruction given to grand juries for 100 years.

Mr Kohberger was linked to the murders that rocked the town of Moscow through DNA evidence, cellphone data, an eyewitness account and his white Hyundai Elantra.

His attorneys have previously tried to argue that the DNA may have been planted and that the state has not handed all the evidence for the defence to review.
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Club Q, the Colorado LGBTQ+ club where five people were killed in a 2022 mass shooting, will reopen in a new venue under a modified name, its owners announced.

Both locally and nationally, Club Qs reopening sends a strong message that hate will not win, love will always prevail, the clubs management said in a statement. Over the last 11 months, we have heard the perspectives of survivors, victims families and the greater community. The voices are overwhelmingly strong, Club Q must return  when and where has been the main debate.

And the owners added: Safe venues are still very important. Transgender people are being attacked and legislated against throughout the country and the art of drag is under attack as grooming. The Q, in the tradition of Club Q, will stand up to these attacks.

The new venue will be called The Q and will operate out of the Satellite Hotel in Colorado Springs. Management did not announce a timeline for the re-opening.

The group also said the designing of a memorial for the five victims of the shooting  Daniel Aston, Raymond Green Vance, Kelly Loving, Ashley Paugh and Derrick Rump  is still in progress.

The city has marked the tragedy in other ways.

In June 2023, Richard Fierro, an Army veteran who helped subdue the shooter, was made grand marshal in the citys Pride parade.

Im blown away by the stories Ive heard ... I already thought I knew what was going on in the LGBTQ community, but I didnt, he told The Independent. And hearing the stories of these kids, its still just as hard as it was back in the 80s and 90s when I was watching my friends go through this.

In November, Anderson Lee Aldrich opened fire with an assault-style rifle, killing five and injuring 19 others.

In June, he pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree murder among numerous other charges and was sentenced to life without parole.

That is the longest sentence ever achieved in the Fourth Judicial District and the second, to my knowledge, longest sentence ever achieved in the state of Colorado, second only to the sentence achieved in the Aurora theater shooting case, Fourth Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen said at the time of the case.

The shooter was able to obtain multiple weapons, including one purchased by their mother, despite being charged in 2021 with felony menacing and first-degree kidnapping after making a bomb threat.

The charges were later dropped and its records were sealed.

Critics have argued the ability of the shooter to obtain multiple weapons shows the limits of Colorados red flag laws.
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A grieving mother has opened up about her heartbreak upon learning that her son was run over by a police officer and buried in a common grave  after she spent seven agonizing months searching for him.

Thirty-seven-year-old Dexter Wade was killed less than an hour after he left his mothers home in Jackson, Mississippi on 5 March, NBC reports. As he walked across Interstate 55, Wade was fatally struck by an off-duty corporal driving a police SUV.

Bettersten Wade reported her son missing a week after she last saw him, but she was only made aware of his tragic fate 172 days later. Four days after he died, Wade was identified by the Hinds County coroners office and, according to an incident report obtained by NBC, information about his next of kin was passed down to the Jackson Police Department.

Ms Bettersten said she was not delivered the news and after Wades body went unclaimed for three months, he was buried in a common grave for unclaimed bodies at the Hinds County penal farm.

They had me looking for him all that time, and they knew who he was, Ms Bettersten told NBC.

At the time of his death, Wade had PCP and methamphetamine in his system. The officer involved was not given field sobriety tests and Wades death was ruled accidental, NBC reported.

Wade was identified thanks to his fingerprints, which were on his criminal file. He had convictions for attempted auto theft and armed robbery, according to records obtained by NBC, and served time in prison.

Following his release in 2017, Wade was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. However, he had recently spent time recovering from drug use, helping his community and being present for his daughters, Ms Bettersten said.

He didnt seem like he was in a bad place, she told NBC. But I dont know what happened that particular day.

Ms Bettersten said she initially did not want to report her son missing because of previous negative experiences with law enforcement. Her brother was killed in 2019 after he was slammed to the ground by a police officer, who was later convicted of manslaughter and is in the process of appealing.

She finally filed a report with the Jackson Police Department after Wades teen daughters kept calling asking her for her father. Ms Bettersten told NBC that she sent pictures to at least two investigators, and gave them her contact information.

An investigator with the Hinds County coroners office wrote in an incident report that he had called a number linked to Wades and left a voicemail. Ms Bettersten said that although the number on file matches hers, she didnt receive the call, or a voicemail.

The phone number and an address were sent to the Jackson Police Department, which had already received the missing persons reports and several follow-up calls from Ms Bettersten, but it remains unclear why she was not notified.

In the seven months that she anxiously waited for updates, Ms Bettersten led searches, posted on social media and continued pleading with police to prioritize Wades case.

However, an investigator who was close to retirement told her for months that there were no leads. On 24 August, a new investigator who had taken over the case just weeks before told Bettersten that an officer would come speak with her in person.

She was then informed about the events that led to her sons death and what had followed after.

The hardest thing I ever had to do is tell my girls that their dad is never coming back, Ms Bettersten told NBC. I just want someone to answer for what happened. I want to know what really happened.

Ms Bettersten said she still has many questions about the circumstances surrounding her sons death, including how he arrived near the highwway where he was killed less than an hour before he left her home.

The grieving mother is now trying to raise money to exhume her sons body and lay him to rest at a new grave.
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One million more families with children had problems getting enough food in 2022 than the year before, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) revealed in a report on Wednesday. Overall, the USDA reported that around 17 million households in the US are food insecure.

The report revealed that around 3.3 million households with children in the US had food insecurities, compared to the estimated 2.3 million households in 2021.

This rise has disrupted the pattern of a decline between 2011 and 2021 in the difficulty of families securing food.

But why is this trend on the rise again?

While the USDA does not go into the reasons behind their survey outcome, the US Census Bureau has suggested that families on a low income may have struggled to recover from the pandemic when more widespread food assistance was in operation.

With prices becoming more unaffordable and aid from the government in providing food solutions for families, it has potentially meant that one million more households with children are experiencing food insecurity.

One of these rollbacks has included the end of universal free school lunches, which expired in the summer of 2022.

These were healthy, nutritious meals because the schools had good standards, said Geri Henchy, the director of nutrition policy for the Food Research and Action Center.

It was great for the kids. It was stigma-free, and it was huge for peoples budgets.

Tom Vilsack, the United States Secretary of Agriculture, responded to the surveys results, calling it unacceptable and saying that it should be a wake-up call for those who wanted to stop the anti-hunger programmes.

The experience of the pandemic showed us that when government invests in meaningful support for families, we can make a positive impact on food security, even during challenging economic times, Mr Vilsack said in a statement.

No child should go hungry in America. The report is a stark reminder of the consequences of shrinking our proven safety net.

The Redeemed Christian Church of God New Wine, one of many charities helping out people over Thanksgiving in 2022 (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program, one government scheme, provides supplemental foods and healthcare referrals to pregnant women, in postpartum and infants up to five who come from low-income backgrounds.

The USDA said in September that if the WIC were shut down, around seven million people would be affected by the benefits being taken from them.

A spokesperson for the White House said President Joe Biden will maintain WIC as a programme.

17 million households experiencing food insecurity in the richest nation in the world is unacceptable, and exactly why President Biden has continued to call on Congress to fund programs like WIC, as well as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the National School Lunch Program, and restore the enhanced Child Tax Credit that helped cut child poverty in half and helped millions of families afford the basics, Jeremy Edwards, the spokesperson said.

While some government programs will remain, the consequences of the rollback of many others already materialised back in winter 2022, when food banks could not cope with demand.

Bread for the City, a low-income service in Washington DC, is one of many charities that were underprepared for the volume of clients waiting to claim food services from them, reports AP.

The charity budgeted 20 per cent higher than pre-pandemic levels, but despite this, way more people came than expected who now felt food insecure.
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The White House is asking lawmakers for more than $23 billion in emergency funding to help the government respond to the tornadoes, wildfires, hurricanes and other natural disasters that have ripped through the U.S. this year.

That request is part of a broader package being sent to Capitol Hill Wednesday that asks for additional investments in child care programs and broadband expansion. And thats on top of the separate, nearly $106 billion request the Biden administration made last week for aid to Ukraine and Israel, as well as other national security priorities.

The White House says the request for additional disaster relief  parsed out among the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other federal agencies that cover housing, transportation and agriculture needs  is based on estimates from communities that have been hit by disasters this year, such as the August wildfires in Hawaii, hurricanes in Florida and flooding in California and Vermont, among other extreme weather events.

President Joe Biden has repeatedly traveled to disaster-ravaged zones this year to comfort victims and to pledge that the federal government would not only help with recovery efforts but in rebuilding communities.

"As I told your governor: If there is anything your state needs, Im ready to mobilize that support  anything they need related to these storms, Biden said as he visited Live Oak, Fla., in September, where Hurricane Idalia tore through the community. Your nation has your back, and well be with you until the job is done.

The biggest portion of the $23.5 billion in Bidens disaster request is $9 billion to beef up FEMAs disaster relief fund, which the agency taps for immediate response and recovery efforts once a natural disaster hits. That fund currently has $33.7 billion available, according to FEMA.

About $2.8 billion is set aside for the Department of Housing and Urban Development to deal with housing needs arising from natural disasters, while another $2.8 billion is allocated for aid funneled through the Department of Agriculture to farmers and ranchers who have suffered from crop losses. The White House is also asking for money to repair damaged roads, help schools in disaster-hit areas and bolster loans for small businesses in such communities.
 Close Maryland Judge Fatally Shot Outside Home

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Authorities in Maryland have found the body of a man suspected of killing a judge who revoked custody of his children.

Judge Andrew Wilkinson was found dead from gunshot wounds in the driveway of his home in Hagerstown, Maryland, on 19 October.

Law enforcement including US Marshals launched a massive manhunt for 49-year-old Pedro Argote after accusing him of targeting the judge in anger over a court ruling. The Marshals had offered a reward of $10,000 for any information that led to his arrest.

Officials announced on Thursday that Argote had been found deceased during a search in a heavily wooded area in Williamsport, just a mile from the place where his car was found last week.

A cause of death has not been provided.

Hours before Argote is believed to have shot Wilkinson, the judge granted custody of Mr Argotes four children to his ex-wife, Eugeina Argote, in a divorce hearing after hearing shocking testimony from his adult daughter from a separate relationship.

Court records show he has a history of verbal domestic assaults against his wife and family.
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A woman has won $3m from a Dunkin franchisee in a lawsuit over hot coffee that fell in her lap, which she claims caused her severe burns and life-altering injuries.

The 70-year-old woman from Atlanta suffered third-degree burns in February 2021 after coffee spilt on her while she was at a drive-thru of a Dunkin in Sugar Hill, Georgia, her lawyers, Morgan & Morgan, said in a statement.

According to the lawyers, her lid was allegedly not attached properly to the coffee cup, causing the hot liquid to spill over her.

The lid allegedly came off as a Dunkin employee handed the woman her coffee, resulting in the liquid burning her skin.

She claimed she suffered second- and third-degree burns to her thighs, groin and abdomen, the lawyers said.

The woman allegedly required extensive skin grafts after the incident.

America may run on Dunkin, but our client had to re-learn how to walk due to the severity of her burns, said Benjamin Welch, the womans attorney, in a statement.

We alleged that the spill never would have happened had the drive-thru employee properly secured the lid on our clients coffee cup.

Mr Welch said her burns were so severe that she was in the burn unit at the hospital for weeks, with her medical bills totaling more than $200,000.

America may run on Dunkin, but our client had to re-learn how to walk due to the severity of her burns (Getty Images)

The attorney also said that his client, a retired federal government employee, still struggles with day-to-day activities, as walking still causes her pain and must apply creams to her burns several times a day.

This case echoes an infamous 1992 case between McDonalds and a woman named Stella Liebeck, referred to as the hot coffee lawsuit.

Ms Liebeck was originally portrayed as someone who carelessly spilled coffee on herself when driving down a highway, but she was in fact, parked and sitting in the passenger seat when the incident occurred.

"One of the most famous lawsuits in American history centres around scalding coffee that caused severe burns, John Morgan, the founder of Morgan & Morgan, said in a statement.

Yet restaurants still have failed to learn their lesson to prioritise customers safety. We hope this settlement sends a message to all restaurants and franchisees: this isnt complicated; train your employees properly and prioritise customer safety."

McDonalds is now dealing with yet another burn lawsuit after another woman claims she was given a scalding cup of coffee, also with an alleged improperly fitted lid.

The Independent has contacted Dunkin for further comment.
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A warrant has been issued for Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Card, 40, after a car that was registered to him was located in a boat landing in Maine.

Maine State Police said at Thursdays press conference that 18 people were left dead after a mass shooting that began at a bowling alley called Just-in-Time Recreation in Lewiston on Wednesday night and extended to Schemengees Bar and Grill, just four miles away. It marked Americas deadliest mass shooting this year.

Despite the death toll of 18, Maine State Police Colonel William Ross said that Mr Card faces an arrest warrant for eight counts of murder because 10 people have yet to be identified. The number of counts will increase as those identifications are made.

Colonel Ross also said that police discovered a vehicle near Pejepscot boat landing in Lisbon near the Androscoggin River. This vehicles registration led to the identification of Mr Card. No details about this vehicle were provided at the press conference.

However, the Lewiston Maine Police Department posted a photo of a vehicle that appears to be white or silver. It is believed that the front bumper may be painted black, the department wrote. WMUR reported the car was a white Subaru.

Hours later, the state police wrote that a vehicle of interest was identified in Lisbon, and prompted a shelter-in-place advisory.

Vehicle identified by Lewiston police (Lewiston Maine Police Department)

Separately, WPRI reported that Massachusetts State Police are seeking another vehicle that the department believes is connected to the mass shooting. This vehicle is a Blue Chevy Suburban with Maine plate 6625ZD, the outlet reported. If confirmed, this detail gives rise to speculation that he could have driven off in a separate car.

The Independent has reached out to the Massachusetts State Police.

On Thursday afternoon, Massachusetts State Police Spokesman David Procopio told Boston 25 that the Chevy Suburban alert was unsubstantiated.

Although the department was aware of the alert for the car, that alert originated in New Hampshire from a civilian motorist who reported to police in that state that she observed an occupant of that vehicle who resembled fugitive CARD. At this time that sighting, and any connection of that vehicle to CARD, is unsubstantiated, Mr Procopio said in a statement.

As of mid-day Thursday, the 40-year-old suspect is still at large. Colonel Ross called Mr Card armed and dangerous and warned he should not be approached. He stressed that the search for Mr Card is active and ongoing, adding that there is a coordinated effort to apprehend this individual.

The shooting

On 25 October, at 6.56pm, a 911 call was made about a male firing shots at Just-in-Time Recreation bowling alley on Mollison Way in Lewiston, police said.

Moments later, at 7.08pm, multiple 911 calls reported an active shooter at Schemengees Bar and Grill on Lincoln Street, just four miles from the bowling alley.

Officials reported that 18 people are now dead  seven were killed at the bowling alley and eight were killed at the restaurant. Three people who were initially transferred to nearby hospitals later died, bringing the gruesome total to 18. Thirteen others were injured in the rampage.

Who is Robert Card?

Photos of Mr Card showed him carrying what appears to be an assault-style rifle and wearing pants with bulging pockets, which John Miller, chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst for CNN, said suggested that he could be carrying extra ammunition.

Mr Card, 40, served as a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve. As a Sgt 1st class and Petroleum Supply Specialist, he joined in 2002 and has had no combat deployments.

He also recently disclosed mental health issues, citing experiences of auditory hallucinations including hearing voices and threats to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco, the Associated Press reported. The outlet reported that Mr Card had been taken by police in July for evaluation after acting erratically at West Point.

An acute episode of mental health

Katie Card, the wife of Robert Cards brother, told The Daily Beast that relatives have been messaging the suspect, urging him to surrender to police.

She said that she has known the suspect for her whole life, adding that he is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know. But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle.

Ms Card shared that the suspect recently started wearing hearing aids for his hearing loss. Ever since, he has claimed that he has heard others speaking ill of him, including at the bowling alley and restaurant where he is accused of shooting dozens.

He truly believed he was hearing people say things, she added. This all just happened within the last few months.

She said he would get mad when family told him the voices were just in his head. Since his stay at a mental health facility this past summer, things have kind of gone downhill recently, Mr Cards sister-in-law divulged.

We tried to listen to him and tell him that nobody was talking about him, she added. Yesterday, as the story was unfolding, we prayed that Rob had nothing to do with this. But when we heard the two places where the shooting happened, my husband rushed home.

The community response

This is a dark day for Maine, Gov Janet Mills said at a Thursday press conference. She said that she and President Joe Biden have ordered all US and Maine flags to be lowered to half-staff for next 5 days.

This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens, on its peace of mind, on its sense of security. No city does. No state. No people, the governor added.

Lewiston, Lisbon, Bowdoin and Androscoggin County are under shelter-in-place orders as the manhunt is underway.

Police were stationed at the borders of New Hampshire border, CBS News reported, while Connecticut and Massachusetts state police departments were on alert for Mr Card, WFSB reported.

Just-in-Time Recreation posted a somber message on its Facebook page in the aftermath of the shooting: None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is. We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and whole hearted people from our bowling family and community last night. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts.

Schemengees Bar and Grill also wrote: My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words. In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason. We loss great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.
Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On October 25, Chinese power battery supplier SVOLT Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (SVOLT) signed an agreement with a group of banks, who agreed to grant SVOLT a credit line worth 7.5 billion yuan, according to the battery maker's press release.

Photo credit: SVOLT

The capital support is expected to help SVOLT advance the volume production of short blade cells at its production base in Chengdu city, Sichuan province.

The banks joining the signing ceremony include China Construction Bank, Bank of China, China Everbright Bank, Postal Savings Bank of China, China Bohai Bank, and China CITIC Bank. They will provide SVOLT with diversified, high-quality, and efficient financial services to meet the full chain financial service needs in project construction and operation in Chengdu city.

Established in 2021, SVOLT's Chengdu base involves a total investment of roughly 22 billion yuan and features a planned annual capacity of about 60GWh. It is SVOLT's first Flying-Stacking short blade battery production base in Southwestern China region ("Flying Stacking" is the 3.0 version of SVOLT's high-speed stacking technology launched in January 2023).

Main products of the Chengdu base include SVOLT's first short-blade 325Ah energy storage cell that uses its "Flying Stacking" technology and the PHEV-dedicated L400 battery cells. These products will be deployed nationwide and have an impact in overseas markets in the future.
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In Maine, where 18 people were killed and 13 others were injured during a mass shooting on Wednesday, residents can obtain a firearm without undergoing a background check or waiting period and there are no red flag laws in place.

The state, which possesses some extremely relaxed gun laws, is the site of the deadliest mass shooting to occur in the US so far this year.

The suspected gunman, who police have named as 40-year-old Robert Card, entered a bowling alley and then a local restaurant seemingly armed with an AR-15-style rifle to carry out the shooting.

In Maine, anyone 21 or older can conceal carry a handgun without a permit or prior firearm training  people 18 or older can do so if a person is on active duty or honorably discharged from the Armed Forces.

Additionally, the state does not outlaw the possession of semiautomatic weapons.

Law enforcement is currently searching for the suspected gunman who is an Army Reservist said to have been struggling with his mental health.

Katie Card, the sister-in-law of the suspected shooter, told The Daily Beast that he is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person however he had an acute episode of mental health in the last year.

Ms Card said her brother-in-law believed people were talking badly about him at the bowling alley and restaurant where he is accused of conducting the shooting.

Over the summer, the suspected gunman sought help at a mental health facility.

Robert Card is said to have been suffering with his mental health (AP)

Following the shooting, law enforcement received a bulletin that said the suspected gunman had been hearing voices and threatened to shoot up a military base, The Associated Press reported.

Maine does not require federal background checks so long as the firearm is purchased at a gun show or through an advertisement.

The state also does not have a red flag law in place that would prevent a person who could present a danger to themselves or others from purchasing the gun.

Instead, Maine has yellow flag laws that allow the relatives of a person who may be suffering a mental health crisis to call law enforcement and seek a temporary order restricting that person from accessing firearms.

However, the law also requires the person to be taken into temporary police custody until a medical evaluation can be completed. Only those who have been involuntarily committed to a hospital because they posed a danger to themselves or others are prohibited from owning firearms.

Everytown, a gun violence prevention organisation, said the state is missing key foundational gun laws.

The Maine Gun Safety Coalition said the shooting was a result of the states weak gun laws and called on elected officials to stop bowing to the gun lobby.

At a minimum, the Maine Gun Safety Coalition believes an assault weapons ban is necessary to try and prevent more tragedies in our state, the organisation said in a statement.

The ease at which a person in Maine can obtain a firearm is a point of concern in the state where suicide ranks number 10 in its leading causes of death.
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Maine mass shooting suspect Robert Cards sister-in-law has added some colour to the reports of the 40-year-olds current state of mind.

After US Army reservist Mr Card was accused of killing 18 people on Wednesday night  and while a manhunt for the Bowdoin resident remains underway  Karen Card spoke out about her brother-in-law toThe Daily Beast.

Ms Card, who is married to the suspects brother, said that she has known the suspect her whole life.

He is quiet but the most loving, hardworking, and kind person that I know, she said on Thursday.

But in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle.

Ms Card shed some light on previously reported details about his mental health struggles.

Back in July, Mr Card showed some signs of erratic behaviour at West Point, prompting him to be taken by police for an evaluation, military officials told The Associated Press.

He then stayed at a mental health facility in the summer, and since then, things have kind of gone downhill recently, Ms Card told The Daily Beast.

The suspect had recently started wearing hearing aids for his hearing loss, and ever since, he has claimed that he has heard others speaking ill of him  including at the bowling alley and restaurant where he is accused of shooting 18 dead.

This all just happened within the last few months, she said.

When others would try to convince him that the voices were in his head, he would get mad, Ms Card continued.

Robert Card is wanted for the mass shootings (via REUTERS)

When the news broke of the shootings, Ms Card suggested that her brother-in-law sprung to mind.

We prayed that Rob had nothing to do with this. But when we heard the two places where the shooting happened, my husband rushed home, she said.

Since learning that he is a suspect in the shootings, she said that relatives have been pleading with Mr Card to surrender to authorities.

The manhunt for Mr Card is now in its second day. According to police, just before 7pm on Wednesday, a 911 call reported an active shooter at Just-in-Time Recreation bowling alley. About 15 minutes later, more 911 calls poured in about an active shooter at Schemengees Bar and Grill. The two locations are just four miles apart, or a 10-minute drive.

A vehicle  a white Subaru registered under Mr Cards name was found late on Wednesday. Still, there is no trace of the suspected shooter.

This is a dark day for Maine, Maine Gov Janet Mills said at a Thursday press conference.

Speaking about Lewiston, she added: This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens, on its peace of mind, on its sense of security. No city does. No state. No people.
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America has been rocked by another mass shooting after authorities say a gunman opened fire at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine killing at least 18 people.

Thirteen people were injured in Wednesday nights shooting. Its the latest massacre in a year filled with mass shootings like it.

At least 18 people have been killed, with the Lewiston shooting expected to be the deadliest shooting to occur this year.

It is the 565th mass shooting to rock the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which classifies a mass shooting as any time four or more people are shot or killed, not including the perpetrator, in the same location at relatively the same time.

Like many years before it, 2023 has been marked by mass shootings in public shopping centres, neighbourhoods, schools, private residences and more.

Here is a list of some of the prominent mass shootings to occur this year.

January 4: Enoch, Utah

At the start of the year, a 42-year-old man shot his five children as well as his mother-in-law and wife in Enoch, Utah after the wife filed for divorce.

January 16: Goshen, California

Six people were killed, including a 10-month-old baby, at a home in Goshen, California.

The shooting was allegedly conducted due to gang rivalry.

January 21: Monterey Park, California

A 72-year-old gunman opened fire at two ballrooms shortly after Lunar New Year Festival celebrations, killing 11 people and injuring nine others.

The gunman later died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Vice President Kamala Harris visits a memorial set up outside Star Dance Studio in Monterey Park, Calif., Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023 (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

January 23: Half Moon Bay, California

Seven people were killed in two spree shootings that took place at mushroom farms in Half Moon Bay.

The gunman, a 66-year-old man, opened fire at his place of work, killing four of his co-workers before heading to another farm where he was previously fired from.

February 13: East Lansing, Michigan

On the Michigan State University campus, three students were killed and five other people were injured after a 43-year-old gunman opened fire.

The gunman later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

February 17: Arkabulta, Mississippi

Six people were killed and one person was injured after a 52-year-old man allegedly went on a spree shooting, firing indiscriminately in public and at residences.

March 27: Nashville, Tennessee

At a Christian elementary school in Nashville, three children and three adults were fatally shot by a 28-year-old former student of the school.

The perpetrator was later shot dead by law enforcement.

Girls embrace in front of a makeshift memorial for victims by the Covenant School building at the Covenant Presbyterian Church following a shooting, in Nashville, Tennessee, March 28, 2023 (AFP/Getty)

April 10: Louisville, Kentucky

Five people were killed and eight others were injured at the Old National Bank in Louisville after a 25-year-old former employee opened fire.

The gunman was later fatally shot by police.

April 15: Dadeville, Alabama

At a teenagers birthday party, four were killed and 25 others were injured after several gunmen opened fire.

April 28: Cleveland, Texas

Five people were killed after a 38-year-old man opened fire in a residence shortly after getting into a dispute with neighbours.

View more

May 1: Henryetta, Tennessee

Five children and one adult were fatally shot by a 39-year-old man who was supposed to attend a trial for his alleged sex offences later that same day.

The gunman died by suicide.

May 6: Allen, Texas

Eight people were killed and seven others were injured after a far-right extremist opened fire at the Allen Premium Outlets.

Several of the victims were children, the youngest of whom was only three years old.

The perpetrator was fatally shot by a police officer.

A woman signs a cross as a child looks on at a makeshift memorial by the mall where several people were killed in Saturday's mass shooting, Monday, May 8, 2023, in Allen, Texas (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

June 15: Sequatchie, Tennessee

Five people were killed and one person was injured after being shot in a home that was then set ablaze.

The perpetrator, a 48-year-old man, was believed to have carried out the shooting before dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

July 2-3: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, a gunman opened fire in the neighbourhood of Kingsessing killing five people and injuring two others.

July 3: Fort Worth, Texas

Three people were killed and four others injured at the annual ComoFest celebration where residents were watching Independence Day fireworks.

July 4: Shreveport, Louisiana

Four people were killed and seven others were injured at an annual Independence Day block party after gunfire was exchanged between multiple men.

July 9: Cleveland, Ohio

Nine people were injured during a shooting after two suspected gunmen opened fire in a busy area of the city while bars and nightclubs were closing down for the night.

July 15: Hampton, Georgia

Four people were killed after a 40-year-old man opened fire in a neighbourhood. After a two-day manhunt, the gunman was fatally shot by police.

August 26: Jacksonville, Florida

A 21-year-old white supremacist killed three people at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville in a racially-motivated shooting.

The gunman later died by suicide.

September 17: Romeoville, Illinois

A family of four, including two young children, were found dead from gunshot wounds in their home. Investigators are currently looking for the perpetrator.

October 3: Baltimore, Maryland

At Morgan State University, four people were hospitalised after suffering from gunshot wounds after gunmen opened fire on the college campus.

October 25: Lewiston, Maine

At least 18 people were killed and 13 others injured after a gunman opened fire in a shooting spree that spanned across the town of Lewiston.

Nearly every US state allows gun owners to carry concealed weapons in public in some form. But more than half of US states allow most gun owners to carry a concealed firearm in most public spaces without a permit, background check or safety training, as Republican lawmakers advance a so-called constitutional carry movement through state legislatures.

State officials later moved to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines like the one used in attacks in the last 10 months. But assault weapons like AR-style rifles remain widely available across the country, despite repeated demands from President Joe Biden and widespread support among Democratic members of Congress to reinstate a federal ban.

Since taking office, the president has had more success in enacting new gun safety legislation than any president since Bill Clintons two terms in the 1990s.

But with a Republican-controlled House of Representatives and a de facto 60-vote threshold for any legislative action on any matter in the Democratic-controlled Senate, it is unlikely that Congress will make any progress towards any new laws that would restrict the availability of firearms in the US  even as a majority of Americans believe it should be more difficult to get them.

Alex Woodward contributed to this report
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Israeli reservists have criticised Benjamin Netanyahus son Yair for remaining in Miami rather than joining the fight against Hamas.

The 32-year-old is living in Florida, where he moved earlier this year after he was sued for defamation in Israel over social media posts against a political activist.

Around 360,000 reservists have been called up in Israel following the bloody 7 October attack on Israel launched by Hamas fighters from Gaza.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has received fierce criticism in Israel over the shocking surprise attack, which left more than 1,400 civilians and soldiers dead and hundreds more taken hostage.

Now reservists called up for the war have criticised his son for not returning home to fight in the expected upcoming ground assault on the Palestinian enclave.

Yair Netanyau, son of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, assists in sorting donated supplies to IDF soldiers and Israeli families impacted by the Israel-Hamas war, with NGO Yedidim USA (Orit Ben-Ezzer/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock)

Yair is enjoying his life at Miami Beach while Im on the front lines, one reservist on Israels northern front told Londons The Times newspaper.

Its us who are leaving our work, our families, our kids, to protect our families back home and the country, not the people who are responsible for this situation.

Our brothers, our fathers, sons, are all going to the front line, but Yair is still not here. It does not help build trust in the leadership of the country.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses media during a joint press conference with French President in Jerusalem (POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Israels armed forces are made up of a large number of reservists who have completed national service and can be called upon until the age of 40.

While most are based in Israel, some have flown from countries around the world to report for duty.

Ive flown back from the States where I have a job, a life, my family, another reservist told the newspaper.

There is no way I can stay there and abandon my country, my people, at this critical time. Where is the prime ministers son? Why isnt he in Israel?

It is the most uniting moment for us as Israelis in our recent history and every single one of us should be here right now, including the prime ministers son.

On 17 October Yair Netanyahu helped sort donated supplies to IDF soldiers and Israeli families impacted by the Israel-Hamas war, with NGO Yedidim USA in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Yair Netanyahu was sued by political activist Dana Cassidy in 2020 after he alleged in an online post that she was in a relationship with politician Benny Gantz, who was running against his father for prime minister.

A court ordered him to pay Ms Cassidy $34,000 in compensation and $6,000 in legal costs.
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The mysterious death of the Los Angeles model Nichole Coats has been ruled accidental by the citys medical examiner.

Coats, 32, who was found dead in her luxury apartment on 10 September, died from cocaine and ethanol toxicity according to authorities. Ethanol toxicity is caused by the consumption of a large amount of alcohol.

The alarm was raised last month after her friends told the models father that they could not get hold of her, so he went over and let himself in with a spare key.

She was covered up and I went over and I said Nichole? and I touched her arm and she was just like stone, he said to KTLA at the time.

While May Stevens, the models aunt, had suspicions of foul play, authorities have found no evidence of that claim.

At the time, Coatss death was heavily reported alongside the death of another LA-based model, Maleesa Mooney, 31, who was found dead in her apartment two days after Ms Coats.

Despite this, the Los Angeles Police Department said back in September that there was no evidence linking the two cases together.

This was due to the similarities between the two cases: both models, both similar ages, both found in their apartments in LA.

LAPD said there was no evidence to link Ms Coats death to other model Maleesa Mooney (GoFundMe/Facebook)

Mooneys cause of death was determined by the Los Angeles Medical Examiner as homicidal violence, but her sister, Jourdin Pauline, told People that there have been no advances in the investigation and a suspect has not been named.

Ms Pauline also told the outlet that Mooney was two months pregnant at the time of her death.

Before the medical examiner released their ruling, her family told many news outlets that they believed that her death was suspicious.

I believe it was murder, I really do, Ms Stevens also told KTLA. One of her legs was up in the air in a kicking position. Thats not somebody who just laid in their bed and died.

Her mother also told ABC7 about her suspicions.

Im devastated that it happened to Nichole. This is horrible... its like a dream, that my daughters going to walk through the door and shes not, her mother Sharon Coats told People.

Shes gone. Im just trying to piece everything together, but I still feel that something fishy is going on.

The family of Nichole Coats held memorial services to remember her, despite at the time not knowing her cause of death (KTLA)

Coats, who was working as a beauty sales rep at the time and was an aspiring model, was due to fly to Cancun, Mexico with friends before her untimely death.

The models family held a funeral for her on 28 September, according to a GoFundMe page raising money for the service.

The fundraiser described Coats as a vibrant personality [and] was one that touched and affected everyone she crossed paths with. She is known as an amazing daughter, friend and soul.
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A 58-year-old man who received a transplanted heart from a pig at the University of Maryland School of Medicine last month appears to be improving and hasnt yet shown signs of rejecting the organ, according to the Associated Press .

A recently released video shows Lawrence Faucette working with a physical therapist to regain his strength.

Mr Faucette was dying of heart failure before he received the transplant on 20 September; he wasnt eligible for a human heart transplant due to other health conditions.

His case is the second in which University of Maryland doctors have tried to use a pigs heart to save someone dying from heart disease: last year, the team performed the first transplant on David Bennett. He lived just two months with the pigs heart; though its thought that a pig virus may have contributed to his death, the official cause has not been determined.

Before performing their second transplant  on Mr Faucette  the team reportedly implemented better virus testing on the pig heart.

Another research team at NYU Langone Health recently transplanted pig hearts into two recently deceased people who were being kept alive by ventilators.

Research on animal-to-human organ transplants  sometimes called xenotransplants  has been popular in part because the demand for transplantable organs exceeds supply, per the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

More than 104,000 people are on the transplant waiting list in the US, and, each day, 17 people die waiting for a transplant, per the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA).

A Maryland man who received a pig heart transplant is recovering well one month later. (AP)

Another individual is added to the waiting list every 10 minutes, and more than 42,000 transplantations were performed last year. Doctors have long encouraged the public to consider registering as an organ donor, since one single donor can save up to eight lives. That said, though 170 million people in the US are organ donors, relatively few deaths result in successful organ transplants: Only three in every 1,000 people die in a way that allows for organ transplantation, per Penn Medicine.

Though scientists have been working on xenotransplanation techniques for decades now, the results have been largely unsuccessful. When an animals organ is put in a humans body, the immune system usually immediately destroys the foreign tissue.

But there are currently no signs that Mr Faucettes body is rejecting his new heart.

A spokeswoman for the hospital where he is recovering told the Associated Press that Mr Faucette is already able to stand, and that physical therapists are helping him work toward walking again.

His heart is doing everything on its own, Muhammad Mohiuddin, MD, director of the cardiac xenotransplantation program at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, told the Associated Press.
 Close Investigation ongoing into killing of Detroit synagogue president Samantha Woll

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Authorities investigating the fatal stabbing of synagogue leader Samantha Woll have yet to name a suspect days after the murder that shocked the Detroit community.

At around 6.30am on Saturday, the 40-year-old leader of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue was found stabbed to death at her home in the Lafayette Park neighbourhood.

Authorities believe she was attacked inside her home and then stumbled out before collapsing on the sidewalk.

On Monday, Detroit Police Chief James White said at a press conference that his agency is working in partnership with the FBI and Michigan State Police and has already identified persons of interest.

Chief White also said there was no evidence suggesting the murder was a hate crime.

We are working through what we have identified as some persons of interest ... but we are very early in the investigation, he said. We have a number of people who give us interest, we are just short of calling one of the people a suspect.

Woll once worked as a former aide to Democratic Rep Elissa Slotkin and campaign staffer for Attorney General Dana Nessel.
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Robert Card, 40, was found days after a dayslong search conducted by local and federal law enforcement after at least 18 people were killed and 13 others were wounded in the deadliest mass shooting of the year.

Parts of Maine, like Lewiston and Bowdoin, were under shelter-in-place advisories, as the community is rattled by the tragedy  and waits for Card to be caught. Police said he should be considered armed and dangerous.

He was believed to be carrying a high-powered assault-style rifle and possibly extra ammunition. Investigators are still on the hunt for Card, as of Thursday afternoon.

Heres how the tragedy unfolded.

Months before the deadly attacks, Card, a US Army reservist, was reportedly held in a mental facility for weeks over the summer. He was taken by police in July for evaluation at the urging of concerned military officials. In the same vein, Karen Card, the suspects sister-in-law, revealed to The Daily Beast that in the past year, he had an acute episode of mental health, and its been a struggle. Since his release from the facility, she added, things have kind of gone downhill recently,

Minutes before 7pm on Wednesday night, shots were fired at Just-in-Time Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way in Lewiston, Maine.

At 7.08pm, multiple 911 calls reported an active shooter at Schemengees Bar and Grill on Lincoln Street, just four miles from the bowling alley.

Just after 8pm, Maine State Police urged Lewiston residents to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations, the department wrote.

At 8.06pm, police released a photo of the shooter to the media, and an hour and a half later, the Lewiston Police Department received a call identifying the man in photos as Card. Among the first calls were from Cards family members, officials revealed on Saturday morning.

Two hours later, at 9.56pm, state police officers alerted that they had found a vehicle of interest in Lisbon at Pejepscot Boat Launch, prompting the shelter-in-place advisory to extend to Lisbon. The Lewiston Police posted a photo on Wednesday night of a white Subaru station wagon. That vehicle was registered to Card, police said. A long gun was found in the vehicle.

Police issued a photo of the shooting suspects car (LPD)

At 10pm, Androscoggin County officials implemented a shelter-in-place order for the entire county. The manhunt continued into the next day.

At 6am on Thursday, state police ordered residents of Bowdoin  where Card lives  to shelter in place. At that time, the department reported that over 100 investigators were searching for Card.

At a 10.30am press conference on Thursday, officials confirmed that the shooting had taken 18 lives and left 13 others injured. An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder was issued for Card. State Police Colonel William Ross explained that more counts will be added as more people have been identified  as of Thursday morning, 10 remained unidentified.

Robert Card (AP)

By Friday evening, police had found Cards body  in a box trailer in Maine Recycling Corporations overflow lot. Authorities believe he took his own life. Its not entirely clear how Card wound up at the recycling facility, but it is believed that he walked from the boat landing via a trail that linked the two locations.

Authorities revealed that they had twice cleared the facility before receiving a call from the recycling plants owner, who said that Card knew the facility well. Police did not confirm whether Card was working there at the time of the shooting, but reports have claimed that he had recently been fired from the plant. So, police searched through 55 to 60 trailers in the lot, leading them to Card, who was found alongside two fireamrs.

He is dead, Maine Gov Janet Mills said at a news conference after the search concluded, as she thanked the officers involved in the manhunt. Like many people, I am breathing a sign of relief tonight, knowing that Robert Card is no longer a threat to anyone... Now is the time to heal.

President Biden also remarked on the tragedy, calling on Congress to pass gun safety legislation. Americans should not have to live like this, Mr Biden wrote in a statement on Saturday. I call on Republicans in Congress to fulfill their obligation to keep Americans safe. And I will continue doing everything in my power to end this gun violence epidemic. The Lewiston community, and all Americans, deserve nothing less.
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The mother of US Army private Travis King, who was charged with desertion after he fled into North Korea over the summer, said her family plans to "fight the charges" brought against him, including allegations that he was in possession of child sex abuse material.

Claudine Gates and Dan Jovanovic, Mr King's mother and stepfather, spoke to ABC News and insisted the charges against their son do not reflect the "peaceful person" they know him to be.

"The actions that the Army is saying that what he's doing is not Travis. He's not like that. He's a good boy," Ms Gates said.

Mr King had reportedly been detained by South Korean law enforcement for punching someone in a Seoul nightclub. He was sentenced to 47 days in a South Korean detention facility and was scheduled to be returned to the US for disciplinary procedures in July.

Rather than return to the US, Mr King fled into North Korea across the Demilitarized Zone, where he was taken into custody by DPRK forces. He was released in September and is now being held in pre-trial detention in El Paso, Texas.

A TV screen shows a file image of American soldier Travis King during a news program at the Seoul Railway Station in Seoul, South Korea, (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

His parents said they were concerned that his mental health had deteriorated, and said they were left wanting after asking the US military for updates on his condition. They said Mr King seemed "very drowsy and tired" when they saw him two weeks ago in Texas.

"I didn't think that they were doing any harm to him or anything  But he seemed like he was still withdrawn," Mr Jovanovic said.

The parents told the news outlet that Mr King had signed papers preventing him from speaking on why he fled to North Korea and what occurred when he was in DPRK custody. Ms Gates said her son "seemed very worried."

In addition to his desertion and the disciplinary actions pending from his nightclub encounter, Mr King was also accused of soliciting lewd photos from an underage girl in exchange for money, according to a charging document.

His mother said she was "blindsided" by the accusation that he was seeking child sex abuse materials, and his father said the claim was "100 per cent-plus out of character" for the man.

"That's not him, period," he said.

They said Mr King lost his phone during his time in South Korea and theorised that perhaps someone else used it to solicit the photos.

"If you got all these devices accessible or laying around and everything, God only knows how that manifested itself in there," Ms Gates said.

Mr King's parents said he hated alcohol and drunkenness and criticised the Army for not intervening when he apparently began drinking to excess in South Korea.

"They should have given him some type of help and got him off that juice," Mr Jovanovic said. "Something had to be done about it so it [didn't] escalate to being worse, which I think that's what happened."

An Army spokesperson speaking to ABC News said that "to protect the privacy of Private King, the Army will not comment on the details of ongoing litigation. Private King is presumed innocent of the charges until proven guilty."

Ms Gates said she was "afraid" for her son.
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The Pope on Tuesday accepted the resignation of a Polish bishop whose diocese has been hit by reports of an orgy involving priests and a male sex worker.

The Vatican did not give any reason for the departure of 59-year-old Bishop Grzegorz Kaszak as head of the diocese of Sosnowiec, in southwestern Poland.

The bishop resigned after one of his priests was placed under criminal investigation over reports from last month that he had organised a sex party. It was also alleged that the male sex worker who had been invited to the orgy involving priests from the diocese had lost consciousness due to an overdose of erectile dysfunction pills.

In September, Gazeta Wyborcza, a liberal daily Polish newspaper, published a report stating that during the gathering, which took place in a facility owned by the parish of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Angels in Dabrowa Gornicza, one of the priests had contacted emergency services to request an ambulance. But the paper  according to the New York Times  reported that the priests at the event hindered paramedics from helping the unconscious man. Paramedics later called the police and only then the priests relented.

Waldemar Lubniewski, spokesman for the District Prosecutors Office in Sosnowiec, said at the time the investigation was focused on a failure to provide assistance to a person in a situation that poses an immediate threat of loss of life or serious damage to health.

Father Tomasz Z, the priest who allegedly arranged the sex party within his church apartment, was identified solely by the diocese. He spoke with the Polish media last month, contesting the specific details of the incident. He questioned the accuracy of the count of priests present during the alleged sex party and remarked, it is worth reading what the definition of an orgy is.

He brushed off the controversy over the events in his apartment as an obvious attack on the church, including the clergy and believers and said that the uproar would not have happened if something similar had happened to a person outside the clergy.

But the diocese largely corroborated the media reports. It said that an outside investigative commission had concluded that Father Tomasz committed a very serious violation of moral norms as well as of his obligations as a priest.

In a statement last month, the diocese said that the participation of Father Tomasz in what happened on the night of August 30-31 is not in doubt. It said that he had been stripped of all functions at the diocese and was sent to live outside the parish.

Kaszak announced his resignation on 24 October but did not provide any more details. He has not been accused of having been involved in the alleged orgy but reports say he is being held responsible for the conduct of the priests under his diocese.

I ask everyone to forgive my human limitations, he wrote in his statement. If I have offended anyone or neglected something, I am very sorry.

Kaszak was designated as a bishop in 2009 by the then-Pope Benedict XVI, following a brief stint as the second-in-command in the Vaticans family office.

The Vatican embassy in Poland has announced that Archbishop Adrian Galbas of Katowice will serve as a temporary administrator, overseeing the diocese of Sosnowiec until the appointment of a new bishop.
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The U.N. Security Council failed again Wednesday to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions.

The council is the U.N.s most powerful body, charged with maintaining international peace and security, but its divisions have left it impotent and scrambling to try to find a resolution with acceptable language.

The resolution drafted by the United States, Israels closest ally, would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza.

In Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council, 10 countries voted in favor, Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates voted against, and Brazil and Mozambique abstained. The resolution was not adopted because permanent council members Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution, which was then put to a vote, would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and unequivocally condemned Hamas Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza.

In that vote, four countries voted in favor  Russia, China, United Arab Emirates and Gabon. The United States and United Kingdom voted against, and nine countries abstained. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

The failure of the two resolutions followed the councils rejections last week of a Russian resolution that didnt mention Hamas and also failed to get nine yes votes and a widely supported Brazilian resolution vetoed by the United States that would have condemned the Hamas attacks and all violence against civilians and called for humanitarian pauses.

After the votes, Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, speaking on behalf of the 10 elected members of the council serving two-year terms, announced they will be working on a new proposal in the coming days.

As elected members of this council, we also represent the rest of the international community and we have a duty and an obligation to act, she told the council. There is no time to waste.

Before the vote, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council that last week she had said diplomacy needed to play out before it approved a resolution. She pointed to action by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, President Joe Biden, and regional leaders that led to the opening of the Rafah crossing from Egypt to Gaza to the delivery of some desperately needed humanitarian aid, though much, much more help is needed as well as the release of four of the more than 200 hostages taken from Israel.

Thomas-Greenfield called this moment a test for the international community and for the council. She accused Russia of introducing a resolution at the last minute in bad faith with no consultations, and urged members to vote for the strong and balanced U.S. text.

Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia countered that an immediate humanitarian cease-fire is needed to de-escalate the conflict and reduce the bloodshed and shocking Palestinian casualties. He called the U.S. draft politicized and claimed the United States doesnt want the Security Council to have any influence on a possible Israeli ground offensive that would risk provoking an even larger-scale conflict in the region and possibly even beyond.

After the vote, Chinas U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun said the U.S. draft contained many elements that went beyond humanitarian needs and were deeply divisive. He called it evasive on the most urgent issue of ending the fighting and said it failed to reflect the worlds strong calls for a cease-fire.

United Arab Emirates Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh, the Arab representative on the council who voted against the U.S. resolution and for the Russian draft, said the U.N. and humanitarian organizations have made clear that what is essential is a humanitarian cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and sustained humanitarian access to Gaza.

At a council meeting on the war Tuesday that heard nearly 90 speakers, there were dozens of statements imploring this council to assign the same value to Palestinian life as it does to Israeli life, Nusseibeh said. We cannot allow any equivocation on this point.

Israels U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan thanked the U.S. and other nations that supported its resolution for condemning savage genocidal terrorists while standing up for the values of freedom and security.

Those who voted against the resolution showed the world the Security Council is incapable of condemning terrorists and cannot confirm the right to self -defense of the victim of these heinous crimes.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, told the Associated Press after the vote its disgusting the Security Council is not shouldering its responsibility to stop the war."

You do not start by killing the people and then say that I want to deal with the situation, he said. We need to save lives.  That is the most urgent priority.

With the Security Council still paralyzed, the Palestinians are turning to the 193-member General Assembly where there are no vetoes  just as Ukraine did after Russia's February 2022 invasion. The assembly's emergency special session opens Thursday, with 106 speakers on the list, and Arab nations have circulated a draft resolution which Mansour said he expects to be put to a vote on Friday afternoon.

The draft resolution calls for an immediate cease-fire, demands that Israel rescind its order for Gazans to move from the north to the south, calls for maximum restraint, and demands that essential goods including food, water and medicine are provided in the Gaza Strip.

___

Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war
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A jailed French gangster known as the getaway king after two dramatic escapes from prison - one involving a hijacked helicopter - will be locked up for a further 14 years.

Redoine Faid, who says he drew inspiration for his criminal career from French and American gangster films, escaped from Reau prison, southeast of Paris, in July 2018.

He had been in the prisons visiting room when three men burst in and got him onto the aircraft, which had landed in one of the prison courtyards.

Just five years earlier, in April 2013, he escaped from Sequedin prison in the north of the capital, using explosives to blast through five prison doors, taking four prison wardens hostage, and escaping in two getaway cars.

Redoine Faid twice escaped jail (BFMTV/YouTube)

A self-described freedom addict, Faid, who has multiple convictions for armed robbery, went on trial earlier this month and was this week sentenced to 14 years additional years behind bars for the prison break.

The 51-year-old appeared at Assize Court with a smile and wearing a blue sweater. Among the 11 co-defendants were his two brothers, one of whom he greeted with a kiss, three nephews and a convicted member of the Corsica underworld.

Prosecutors had requested 22 years for the jailbreak, spearheaded by Faids brother Rachid, who took a helicopter pilot hostage and ordered him to fly to the prison. Rachid got 10 years for his involvement in the plot.

Three armed accomplices let off smoke bombs to confuse guards at the prison, one of the men - identified as Faids elder brother Rachid - used a disc grinder to cut through doors leading to the visiting room.

Faid had been receiving a visit from another brother, Brahim. Inmates of the prison cheered as the helicopter took off with its new passenger, with the operation taking just 10 minutes. Brahim told the court he had no idea about the plan and he was acquitted.

Helicopter used in jail break (EPA)

After Faid was sprung from the prison, the helicopter landed in Gonesse, a northeastern suburb of Paris, where he and his accomplices continued their escape by car.

Authorities later found a burnt-out black Renault suspected of being the getaway car in Aulnay-sous-Bois, another suburb of the capital. The assailants are thought to have changed vehicles, continuing their escape in a van.

Faid was arrested by special forces in October 2018 in an apartment located in the city of Creil, in the northern suburbs of Paris, having spent three months on the run. He had been seen dressed as a woman, wearing a burqa.

In 2017, he was sentenced on appeal to 25 years in prison for masterminding a failed 2010 robbery, which claimed the life of a policewoman.

As a young delinquent in a troubled suburb north of Paris, Faid took his inspiration from gangster movies. He told the court it was his love of freedom that drove him to escape from jail.

"Im in a concrete sarcophagus 23 hours out of 24 What am I going to do? Kick my heels indefinitely. I have an addiction which consumes me and which I cannot cure. I am addicted to freedom."
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A Russian drone strike in western Ukraine likely targeted one of the countrys four major nuclear power facilities, president Volodymyr Zelensky said.

The UNs nuclear watchdog has expressed alarm over the attack in Khmelnytskyi oblast, which hit the regions nuclear power plant and temporarily impacted the sites radiation monitoring systems.

Mr Zelensky said the strike on Wednesday presented yet more evidence that tougher sanctions were needed against Russia.

At least 20 people were injured in the attacks in Khmelnytskyi region that shattered windows at the nuclear power plant and nearby sites and destroyed power lines, causing outages, Ukrainian officials said.

Power was temporarily cut to some sections of the power plant and hundreds of buildings in the area sustained damage.

It is highly likely that the target for these drones was the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant  the shockwave from the explosion shattered windows, including those on the territory of the NPP [nuclear power plant], Mr Zelensky said in his nightly video address.

Every Russian strike, especially ones as audacious as those targeting nuclear plants and other critical facilities, is an argument that the pressure on the terrorist state is insufficient, he said.

He said the assessment of the drones used in the attack showed their missiles, originate from various countries, various companies, including Western ones.

The International Atomic Energy Agency, the UNs nuclear watchdog, said blasts from the drone attack did not affect the plants operations or its connection to the grid, but raised concerns over the proximity of the attack to the plant.

The fact that numerous windows at the site were destroyed shows just how close it was. Next time, we may not be so fortunate, said IAEA director general Rafael Grossi.

Some 1,700 buildings in the area sustained damage. These included 282 apartment blocks, more than 1,400 private homes, 41 educational institutions and six healthcare buildings, regional governor Serhiy Tyurin said.

The incident also caused damage to power lines, affecting over 1,800 consumers in the neighbouring towns of Netishyn and Slavuta, resulting in power outages.

The Ukrainian air force repelled all 11 Russian drone attacks overnight, the military said, adding that the damage was caused by blast waves and falling debris.

"At night, the enemy struck territory near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant. As a result of the explosion, windows in administrative and laboratory buildings have been damaged," the energy ministry said on the Telegram messaging app.

Earlier, the Ukrainian president said Kyiv was preparing for terrorist attacks on our energy infrastructure. This year we will not only defend ourselves, but also respond, Mr Zelensky said.
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Vladimir Putin has presided over a rehearsal to deliver what the Kremlin described as a massive nuclear strike, including the test launch of multiple ballistic missiles.

While Russia holds similar rehearsals every autumn, Wednesdays show of force came just hours after Moscows withdrawal from a significant nuclear test ban treaty and as its invasion of Ukraine approaches its second winter.

Footage broadcast on state television showed the Russian president overseeing the annual exercises, dubbed Grom, via video call.

The purpose of the drill was to deliver a massive nuclear strike... in response to an enemy nuclear strike, said defence minister Sergei Shoigu.

The Kremlin said a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile was launched from a test site to a target in Russias far east, a nuclear-powered submarine launched a ballistic missile from the Barents Sea and Tu-95MS long-range bombers test fired air-launched cruise missiles.

Russia, which has the worlds largest nuclear arsenal, has passed a bill in parliament that would revoke its ratification of a key nuclear test ban treaty, the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT). Though it has never formally come into force, the CTBT has helped deter nuclear weapons testing around the world, with only North Korea conducting an explosive nuclear bomb test this century.

Ukraine has said Russias withdrawal of its CTBT ratification was an attempt at nuclear blackmail. Mr Putin, who will be sent the bill for final approval, has said revoking Russias ratification would mirror the stance of the US, which has signed but did not ratify the nuclear test ban.

Russian president Vladimir Putin attends a training to test the strategic deterrence forces via a video link in Moscow (EPA)

Video footage of Wednesdays military exercise released by the Russian defence ministry showed the land- and submarine-launched missiles piercing the night sky with loud roars, while nuclear-capable bomber aircraft departed from an airfield under the cover of darkness.

Under the leadership of the supreme commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, training was conducted with the forces and means of the ground, sea and air components of the nuclear deterrent forces, the Kremlin said in a statement.

During the training, practical launches of ballistic and cruise missiles took place. The tasks planned in the course of the training exercise were fully accomplished, it said.

Russian defence minister Sergei Shoigu (centre) inspecting the forward command post of the Vostok (East) group of troops at an undisclosed location in Ukraine (EPA)

The latest developments have raised widespread concerns that Moscow could resume nuclear testing in attempts to discourage the West from continuing to offer military support to Ukraine.

Russias deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov said earlier this month that Moscow will continue to respect the ban and will only resume nuclear tests if Washington does it first.

On Wednesday, Mr Ryabkov said the Russian foreign ministry had received proposals from the US to restart discussions regarding strategic stability and arms control matters. However, he pointed out that, given the current political climate, Moscow does not view it as feasible.

We arent ready for it because the return to a dialogue on strategic stability... as it was conducted in the past is impossible until the US revises its deeply hostile policy course in relation to Russia, Mr Ryabkov told reporters in comments carried by Russian news agencies.
 Close Aftermath of Russian missile strike on Ukraine mail depot that killed six

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Russian drones hit civilian targets and triggered a fire near Ukraines second-largest city of Kharkiv, officials have said.

The attacks came as Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said in his nightly address Moscow was losing control of the Black Sea.

Russia launched overnight drone attacks today in Kharkiv, with multiple explosions heard, hitting a civilian site, said Kharkiv regional governor Oleh Synehubov.

Kharkiv mayor Ihor Terekhov said the fire was being brought under control but did not confirm whether there were any casualties.

In his address, Mr Zelensky said: Russia is gradually losing control of the Black Sea and retreating to the eastern part of the waters.

I am confident that Ukraine will definitely win. Be confident in yourselves, he said.

Vladimir Putins troops bombarded 118 Ukrainian towns and villages over the course of 24 hours on Thursday, the most intense day of shelling this year, Kyiv said.

Ukraine is trying to build up a new shipping lane without Russian approval to revive its vital seaborne exports. But Russia said it would consider any vessel a potential military target after it quit a UN-brokered deal allowing Ukrainian goods to pass through.
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The father of an American man believed to have been kidnapped by Hamas militants has said his one mission is to bring his son home safely as he urged people to stop politicising the ongoing hostage situation in the Middle East.

Jon Polin said that there is no partial success when it comes to finding his son Hersch Goldberg-Polin and that politicians should be screaming to get those held captive back to their families.

Hersch, 23, has not been heard from since the morning of Saturday 7 October when he was partying with hundreds of other ravers at the Supernova festival in northern Negev.

During the rave, Hamas militants stormed into Israel, killing hundreds and taking others captive in a surprise attack.

Speaking to Fox News, Mr Polin said he had confirmed through video footage that his son had been loaded onto a truck following the attacks.

Hersch has reportedly lost part of his left arm.

Ive said it now for 18 straight days, Im here in the capacity of Herschs dad, Mr Polin said. I have one mission: get Hersch home.

23-year-old Hersch Goldberg-Polin has not been heard from since the morning of Saturday October 7 (AP)

He added: Theres no partial success here. Theres no 90 per cent success here. Its either success or failure. And I want to bring Hersch home. Its disheartening to hear how its so politicised.

Over the last week, four hostages have been released by Hamas, following mediation from Qatar. Israeli officials have said that over 200 hostages were captured by Hamas  including Hersch.

This is not just a question about Hersch, this is not only a question about Israeli citizens, there are 220 hostages representing 33 countries, Mr Polin told Fox News.

Lets stop politicising this. Lets turn this into what is a global humanitarian catastrophe and the whole world and foreign ministries. Ministers everywhere should be screaming to get these people out and dont politicise them.

Mr Polin added that other than confirming the reports of eye-witnesses about his sons capture, the family know nothing.

We have been looking for information and hoping that he has gotten medical care and that he is still alive and as okay as could be in these circumstances. But we know nothing, he said.

Israel Hostages Portraits Goldberg Polin (Rachel Goldberg)

Hersch was born in Berkeley, California, and moved with his family to Jerusalem when he was a small child. He went on to join the Army, training as a medic and tank driver in the 7th Armored Brigade. On completion of his Army service, he got a job as a waiter and was saving up for his lifelong dream of travelling to India.

His family previously revealed the heartbreaking final text messages he had sent them that day, in which he told them he loved them and that he was sorry.

Mr Polin told Fox News that the situation was unimaginable but that messages of support from around the world was helping the family cope with the situation.

We cant imagine the life were living. We wake up every day after barely sleeping. We continue the mission. Like I said, its either we succeed or we dont theres nothing in the middle and that is what carries us, he said.

It helps, hearing support and feeling love from around the world, hearing from people who we know, people who we dont know it all strengthens us but youre right, it is unimaginable.

He added: New cycles move quickly. We need to keep this on the agenda. Dont forget about the hostages.
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The UN has warned that unless there is an immediate delivery of fuel to Gaza, their support to Gazas hospitals, bakeries, and water systems can stop tomorrow.

World leaders including UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak have joined urgent calls for temporary pauses in the fighting to allow delivery of aid and for foreign citizens to evacuate, as hospitals across Gaza shut down due to critical shortages. The health ministry in the besieged enclave  run by Hamas  has said the healthcare system has "collapsed".

Speaking to The Independent, Tamara el-Rifae, a spokesperson for UNRWA, the UNs Palestinian refugee agency, said that unless fuel arrives imminently their critical support across many facets of life in Gaza may stop.

There has to be a way to get the fuel in otherwise everything can stop tomorrow, or we have to make extremely hard choices, she said.

We will have to decide whether to direct [the last rations of] fuel to generators in hospitals, or to bakeries to make bread for peoples survival or to trucks to deliver aid or to desalination plants for clean water so that people arent forced to drink contaminated water, she added.

Gaza is buckling under a total siege imposed by Israel that has unleashed its heaviest bombardment ever, in retaliation for the 7 October attack on south Israel by Hamas militants who killed 1,400 people and took around 200 hostage.

Just 54 trucks of aid have been permitted to enter the strip since then, which rights groups say is just a drop in the ocean of need. Israel is blocking delivery of fuel it says it would be used by Hamas to fire rockets at Israel.

The lack of fuel is threatening thousands of lives of civilians. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that 130 premature babies in incubators, 1,000 patients in need of dialysis and hundreds more on life support machines will die instantly if generators give out.

More than 6,500 people, including 2,700 children have been killed in Israels bombardment, according to the Gaza health ministry.

Currently one third of Gazas hospitals and nearly two-thirds of the primary health care clinics have stopped working in the bombing and siege, which UN experts and rights groups say amounts to collective punishment and so is a violation of international law.

More hospitals, including Al-Awda, the main maternity provider in north Gaza, will close down in hours, according to international rights group ActionAid.

Dr Ashraf al-Qudra, a spokesperson for the health ministry announced that the health system has completely collapsed due to a lack of supplies and fuel.

In a statement the ministry said twelve hospitals and 32 health care centres are now out of service due to direct and indirect Israeli targeting and a lack of fuel due to the ongoing siege.

The WHO together with UNRWA is responsible for delivering fuel to four hospitals in south Gaza and the Palestinian Red Crescent for ambulances. In a statement to The Independent WHO officials said without fuel, there is no health care, without health care vulnerable patients will die.

Doctors in Gaza said that they have been reduced to using shop bought vinegar and washing up liquid to wash wounds as medical antiseptics were in short supply. For days they have had to ration the use of anaesthesia in surgery.

We are now making compromises at every level, said Dr Ghassan Abu Sitta, a British Palestinian surgeon who was working with Doctors without Borders at Gazas largest hospital Al-Shifa in Gaza City.

There are now 150 critical ventilated patients in makeshift intensive care units all around the hospital,. They are completely depended on the electricity like the operating machines are, like the neonatal intensive care unit are. If the generators stops Shifa hospital will become a mass grave, he said.

Khaled, a doctor in al-Awda Hospital, the main maternity provider in Northern Gaza and a partner of ActionAid, said the situation was so critical the medical centre was on the verge of shutting down.

We will have to stop the activities if we do not receive more fuel. We are working on two generators alternatively. There has been no electricity at all for 17 days in Gaza, he said in a statement shared by the group.

We cannot evacuate. We have patients, critical patients.

Mr Sunak has backed "specific pauses" in the conflict between Israel and Hamas to allow British nationals to escape Gaza and let aid in but rejected calls for a ceasefire.

The prime minister said breaks in fighting as Israel pummels the small territory, which is home to more than two million Palestinians, are necessary to get hostages released as well. Aid trucks have been permitted to reach Palestinians only in the past days.

British aid charity Oxfam said starvation was being used "as a weapon of war" as it repeated its call for more aid to be allowed into the bombarded 42-km long Strip.
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Israels military conducted an overnight raid into Gaza on Wednesday night as the besieged strip reels from ceaseless strikes, displacing hundreds of thousands of people.

The open-air prison - home to some 2.3 million Palestinians- has been hit with over 7,000 Israeli air strikes since Hamas attack on 7 October, destroying hospitals and UN-protected schools in the relentless assault on the enclave. Israel says more than 1,400 people were killed in the Hamas attacks and around 200 more were taken hostage.

The Israeli military said the overnight raid was carried out in preparation for the next stages of combat as the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) prepared for a large-scale invasion.

Gaza has been hit by over 6,000 strikes since 7 October (AP)

Though there have been several raids by Israeli forces into Gaza since 7 October, this latest incursion has been deemed the most significant in scale as military officials threaten the next stages of the war are imminent.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, Benny Gantz, a retired general and member of Israels war Cabinet, said.

Israeli army carried out a "targeted raid" in northern Gaza with tanks and infantry on 26 October (Israeli Army/AFP via Getty Image)

Mr Gantz added that any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

Though the IDF did not reveal the location of the raid, Geoconfirmed, an online geolocating platform, posted photos of military vehicles on X, mapping the tanks at the northern border of the Gaza strip.

This map shows where the tanks were located, according to Geoconfirmed:

View more

The troops came from the Givati brigade and 162nd Armoured Division, according to Israeli media reports, and returned from the raid without casualties.

Through the raid, we eliminated terrorists, neutralised threats, dismantled explosives, neutralised ambushes, in order to enable the next stages of the war for the ground forces, said Israeli military spokesperson R Adm Daniel Hagari.

It comes as more than 7,000 people have been killed in Gaza, including almost 3,000 children, the Palestinian authorities say. At least 17,439 people are said to have been injured.

View more

The Gaza Ministry of Public Works and Housing reported the destruction of 16,441 housing units and the rendering of 11,340 other units uninhabitable, as of 23 October.

The total number of housing units reported as destroyed or damaged accounts for at least 45 per cent of all housing units in the Gaza Strip, according to the UNs OCHA.

Entire neighbourhoods have been destroyed, particularly in Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and Ash Shujaiyeh, the area between Gaza and Ash Shati Refugee Camp, and Abbassan Kabeera.

No place in Gaza is safe now, Haytam Harara from Gaza City told The Independent. Bombing is everywhere around us. We hear nothing except for the sound of warplanes, massive bombings, and the sirens of ambulances. It is like we are waiting until our turn comes.

As of 25 October, 219 educational facilities have been hit, including at least 29 UNRWA schools, the Palestinians say.

This figure includes nearly 629,000 people staying in 150 UNRWA DES, 121,750 sheltering in hospitals, churches, and other public buildings, and nearly 79,000 in 70 non-UNRWA schools. In addition, the Ministry of Social Development estimates that some 700,000 IDPs are residing with host families.
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Israel is laying siege to Gaza after a deadly attack by Hamas left hundreds of people dead.

The country is drawing on its huge military capabilities to hit back at the terrorists and say they have already killed around 1,500 militants following Saturdays incursion.

We are going to go on the offense and attack the Hamas terrorist group and any other group that is in Gaza, Israeli Brigadier General Dan Goldfus said. We will have to change the reality from within Gaza to prevent this from happening again.

An Israeli tank drives toward the southern border with the Gaza Strip (Getty Images)

The surprise Hamas attack is by far the deadliest by militants in Israeli history, with Goldfus telling reporters on Tuesday the death toll had topped 1,000.

In response, the military has mobilised 300,000 reservists, with speculation a ground invasion of Gaza is imminent. Below we look at the significant resources Israel can call on in its war on Hamas.

How big is the Israeli military?

Israeli soldiers scan an area while sirens sound as rockets from Gaza are launched towards Israel (REUTERS)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is the national military. It has three branches: the Israeli Ground Forces, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israeli Navy.

Fixed-term military service has been compulsory in the country since the Israeli Declaration of Independence in 1948.

All citizens over 18 years of age, regardless of gender or ethnicity, are required to serve for at least 24 to 32 months. There are a few exceptions, such as religious women, married individuals, and those with disabilities.

There are currently 173,000 active soldiers in the Israeli army, including 8,000 commanders.

Soldiers and a civilian take cover as a siren sounds a warning of incoming rockets (AP)

The military has also called up 300,000 reservists to prepare for its largest ever mobilisation, with special flights being organised to bring reservists from abroad to join its efforts.

Israel is also drawing on its special forces from the Sayeret Matkal unit to fight against Hamas. It is believed that they will be aiming to neutralise high-ranking fighters within the terrorist organisation and rescue Israelis who have been taken hostage.

In 2021, the Israeli military spend was $24.34 billion.

What weapons does the Israeli army have?

Soldiers with Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) near Israels border with Lebanon (REUTERS)

Israeli forces have already used 600 planes and 300 rocket launchers to strike the Gaza Strip.

The ground troops are also drawing from Israels arsenal of 300 military tanks, with a further 2,000 available for use.

Israels Merkava tank is similar to the German Leopard 2 battle tank that has been widely used in Ukraine. The tank has a thick front armour plate to provide maximum protection for its crew and is armed with a 120mm main gun.

On Monday the Israeli Air Force said it had dropped around 2,000 munitions and more than 1,000 tonnes of bombs on Gaza aimed at over 10,000 targets in less than 24 hours. The air force is known for its Kfir fighter jets and also has a number of F-35 Lightning II jets obtained from the USA.

The IDF is believed to have maintained a nuclear weapons capability since 1967, with an estimated 90 warheads according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NFI), although Israel does not officially confirm this.

Fire and smoke rise from an explosion on a Palestinian apartment tower following an Israeli air strike in Gaza City (AP)

What is the Iron Dome?

The Iron Dome is an Israeli mobile air defence system and Israel is the only country in the world operating such a system on a national level.

The system is designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells whose trajectory would take them to a populated area.

The missile defense system is one of Israels most important tools and has saved many civilian lives since it became operational in 2011.

The IDF said the system had a 95.6% success rate during a missile raid fired by Islamic Jihad in May.

There are 10 Iron Dome batteries across Israel and each one can carry 11 kilograms of explosives.

Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from the Gaza Strip (REUTERS)

The USA contributed to the construction and maintenance of the Iron Dome, spending $1.6 billion on the system from 2011 to 2021.

Each missile costs around $40,000, so intercepting thousands of incoming Hamas rockets can become costly.

The IDF says the Iron Dome is a purely defensive system and has no attacking capabilities.

Israel has now asked the US to assist in restocking the defence system after suffering large missile barrages during Hamas attacks.
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The Israeli army is making preparations for a ground invasion of Gaza that will likely eclipse all previous offensives in scale, ferocity and civilian harm.

Following the brutal massacre of more than 1,200 Israelis by Hamas this weekend, Israels army has moved masses of tanks and soldiers to the perimeter of the densely populated Gaza Strip, evacuated its own civilians from border areas and called up 300,000 reservist troops.

All the places that Hamas hides in, operates from, we will turn them into ruins," Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said .

The Israeli government announced a total siege on the 42-km long territory, vowing to cut off power, water, fuel and food to the more than two million people who live there. The sole remaining access from Egypt shut down Tuesday after Israeli airstrikes hit near the border crossing.

Israeli officials have made clear that due to the severity of the Hamas attack, this incursion will strike deeper and harder than previous invasions of the territory. During a visit to the area near Gaza on Tuesday, Israels Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said he has released all restraints for Israeli troops in the coming fight against Hamas.

They will regret this moment  Gaza will never return to what it was, Gallant added.

Massive aerial bombardment

Israel has already begun preparing the way for its ground invasion with heavy aerial bombardment of Gaza, destroying entire city blocks and killing hundreds in the process. As of Tuesday evening, more than 1,100 Palestinians have been killed and 5,339 others injured by the strikes, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza.

The ministry has accused Israeli forces of deliberately targeting civilian neighborhoods, health facilities, and notably, medical and rescue crews, as well as ambulance vehicles.

Israel army spokesperson Lt. Col. Richard Hecht said that civilian buildings could be targeted if they are being used by Hamas. In buildings where people are living there could be a weapons store there could be a Hamas kingpin living there, he said Tuesday.

The Associated Press reported that civilians in Gaza struggled to find any safe area on Wednesday as strikes demolished entire neighbourhoods, hospitals ran low on supplies and the territorys only power plant ran out of fuel.

The bombardment has caused mass displacement within Gaza, according to the UN , with the total displacement now exceeding 263,934 people. Some 170,000 are seeking shelter in UN schools, it added.

Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike in Gaza (Anadolu/Getty)

Prominent British-Palestinian plastic surgeon Ghassan Abu Sitta said Gazas largest hospital al-Shifa is already at capacity  and they are being forced to improvise. He said he had to clean a teenage girl with 70 per cent surface burns using regular soap because the hospital is out of chlorhexidine, an antiseptic.

Ive been in Gaza during the 2009, 2012, 2014 and 2021 [wars] and this is the worst, he told The Independents Bel Trew from Gaza City.

The sheer number of wounded in the last 72 hours has completely overwhelmed the system. Al-Shiafa is at capacity, he added.

Tunnels and urban fighting

Vastly outnumbered and outgunned, Hamas will likely stick to the hit-and-run tactics is has deployed in previous assaults. The group has used underground tunnels to surprise and attempt to outmaneouvre Israeli forces. It will deploy suicide bombers and IEDs to slow Israels advances.

The best clue for what Israels ground offensive will look like comes from its previous two incursions into the territory, in 2008/9 and 2014.

The Israeli army will continue to use heavy bombardment to clear a path for its ground forces entering the strip in the coming days. In 2008, when Israel invaded the Strip to end Hamas rocket fire, Israeli intelligence had a list of more than 600 major Hamas targets. On the first day, it launched airstrikes against 100 targets in a matter of minutes . The airstrikes were followed by the incursion of three infantry brigade task forces and one armoured task force.

The last time Israeli forces invaded Gaza, in 2014s Operation Protective Edge, they faced the most severe resistance in Shujaiya, a densely populated neighbourhood of Gaza City with some 90,000 residents. The Israeli army faced heavy urban fighting as Hamas fighters sprung up from tunnels and alleyways. In one battle, the Israeli army lost 13 soldiers in the space of eight hours.

As Israeli leaders warn that they will go further into Gaza than they have before, it is likely this conflict will feature the same kind of urban battles. It is also likely that in the years since 2014, Hamas has been able to rebuild some of its capacity and, as evidenced by the brutal operation last weekend, improved its tactics.

The 2014 operation lasted for two weeks and penetrated only a few miles into the strip. During that time more than 2,000 Palestinians were killed mostly civilians, as well as 66 Israeli soldiers, six Israeli civilians .

Hostages

Israels ground operation will no doubt be complicated by the more than 100 hostages taken during the Hamas attack and currently held by the group in unknown conditions  among them women, children and the elderly .

Israel has so far given no indication that it will negotiate with Hamas over their fate, and insisted the presence of captives in Gaza would not slow down their efforts.

"We have an unprecedented number of hostages," Israeli Ambassador to the US, Gilad Erdan told CNN , estimating the number was between 100 and 150.

"We expect the Red Cross, we expect all international organizations to focus on these hostages and how they are treated and that they receive treatment according to international law, but its not going to stop us, prevent us from doing what we need to do in order to secure the future of Israel.

But if Israel receives specific information about the location of hostages in certain areas, it may be forced to hold back.

Hamas, meanwhile, has threatened to kill hostages if Israel targeted civilians without prior warning.

An already dire situation

Amid the mass of unknowns about how the coming war will play out, one thing is certain: Civilians in Gaza will pay a heavy price.

Hundreds have already been killed before the battle has even begun. In 2008, more than 1,400 Palestinians were killed in Israels 22-day invasion. The 2014 invasion saw the death of 2,000 civilians in Gaza over two weeks of heavy fighting and bombardment  half that number of Palestinians have already died in just a few days and the ground invasion has yet to begin.

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip was already dire before the latest outbreak of hostilities. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement on Monday that he was deeply distressed by the announcement from Israel that it will impose a full siege.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza was extremely dire before these hostilities. Now, it will only deteriorate exponentially, he said.
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Israeli troops, backed by tanks and armoured bulldozers launched a targeted raid into northern Gaza, to prepare for the next stages of combat, the country's military has said.

The hours-long brigade-level raid, the biggest of a number of raids Israeli forces have made into Gaza recently, comes ahead of a widely anticipated full-ground offensive that prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed will go ahead.

Israel has also unleashed its heaviest-ever bombardment of Gaza, which is home to more than two million people, in retaliation for a bloody attack by Hamas, who stormed communities in southern Israel on 7 October, killing 1,400 people and taking more than 220 hostage. Ratcheting up its bombing campaign, Israels military said in the last 24 hours alone it had launched 250 airstrikes across Gaza, targeting tunnel shafts and rocket launchers.

The military also shared grainy footage of Israeli tanks crossing into the besieged enclave, where rear admiral Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, said the troops eliminated terrorists, neutralised threats, dismantled explosives [and] neutralised ambushes as part of our preparations for the next stages of combat.

Colonel Richard Hecht said infantry, tanks and armoured bulldozers were involved and the forces went 1.5km into Gaza from the border fence.

It was [a] targeted technical raid in and out  there was an anti-tank missile fired at one of our tanks. There will be more of these raids he added.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run strip has said that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war  a figure that includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital. That is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014, which amounted to 2,251, mostly civilians, according to UN figures. The ministrys current toll includes more than 2,900 children and more than 1,500 women. It said the latest strikes killed 750 people, the highest reported death toll in a 24-hour period so far. An airstrike on the southern town of Khan Younis hit a residential building where 75 people were staying, according to family members, including 25 who had fled other parts of Gaza.

Palestinians inspect the rubble of destroyed buildings following Israeli airstrikes on town of Khan Younis, southern Gaza (AP)

Hamass armed wing, the Qassam Brigades said on their Telegram on Thursday that nearly 50 hostages held captive in Gaza had been killed in airstrikes. The Israeli military declined to comment on this report which could not be independently verified.

Israel has called for Palestinians to evacuate from northern to southern Gaza, but UN officials have said that nowhere is safe in the Strip. When people north as well as south are caught up in hostilities, when the essentials for survival are lacking, and when there are no assurances for return, people are left with nothing but impossible choices, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Lynn Hastings, said. Nowhere is safe in Gaza.

Elsewhere, the foreign ministers of the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and Morocco condemned the targeting of civilians and violations of international law in Gaza in a joint statement. It mentioned that the right to self-defence does not justify breaking the law and neglecting Palestinians rights. The Arab foreign ministers also condemned forced displacement and collective punishment in Gaza.

Meanwhile, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan has told Pope Francis that the international communitys silence over what was happening in Gaza was a shame for humanity. In a statement, he was quoted as telling the Pope during a telephone conversation that everyone should support efforts to deliver uninterrupted aid to innocent civilians in Gaza.

It comes as EU leaders are set to call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and pauses to get urgently needed aid into Gaza, according to the final draft of a text to be approved at a summit in Brussels on Thursday. World leaders  including Rishi Sunak  have called for pauses in the fighting to allow delivery of aid and evacuation of foreign citizens including British citizens.

Women mourn during a funeral for Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes in southern Gaza (Reuters)

Mr Erdogan also slammed the European Union in a televised speech, for failing to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. How many more children must die before the EU Commission calls for a ceasefire, he said. How many more tons of bombs must fall on Gaza before the United Nations Security Council can take action? Mr Erdogan also accused the West of failing to see the violence unfolding in Gaza because the blood being shed is Muslim blood.

The United Nations has made repeated pleas for a humanitarian ceasefire, warning that a crippling Israel-imposed siege alongside the airstrikes means it will have to stop delivery of aid and halt support to hospitals, bakeries and water treatment plants. The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.

Israel has refused to let in fuel with aid shipments, saying it could be seized by Hamas.

The health ministry in Gaza announced the closure of more hospitals and said on Wednesday the healthcare system has collapsed. The UN and rights groups have warned hundreds are at risk  including premature babies and patients dependent on dialysis  if generator fuels run out amid the siege, which UN experts say amounts to collective punishment and is a violation of international law. Hospitals are operating beyond capacity without power, ambulances are running out of fuel and first responders cannot pull the injured or dead out from under the rubble.

A trickle of supplies have been permitted to cross from Egypt into Gaza, but Israel has barred the transfer of fuel, claiming it could be used by Hamas militant power rockets. The Palestinian arm of the Red Crescent says 12 lorries have crossed into Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah border crossing on Thursday.

Israeli soldiers chat near the border with Gaza (Reuters)

Mr Netanyahu, in a televised speech on Wednesday night, did not address calls for a humanitarian ceasefire and doubled down on the ground invasion.

The timing of the invasion will be determined unanimously by the War Cabinet, Mr Netanyahu said adding that the government was working on it around the clock.

We are raining down hellfire on Hamas ... and this is only the beginning. At the same time, we are preparing for a ground incursion. I will not detail when, how or how many, or the overall considerations that we are taking into account, most of which are unknown to the public, and this is how it needs to be, in order to better safeguard the lives of our soldiers, he added.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war cabinet, said on Thursday that any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

Later, when asked about a ground invasion, Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant said: The day it will come is not far off ... the manoeuvre will start when conditions are right.

The Israeli military said that the families of 224 hostages had now been informed. Israel says among them are 138 foreign citizens, including two Britons and 12 Americans. The UK government has said it believes five people are missing in the wake of the Hamas attack.

There had been reports the ground incursion was put on hold to allow more time to negotiate the release of hostages, and because of concerns it could trigger a wider regional war. Mr Gallant said that Israel has no interest in expanding the war beyond Gaza. He would not comment on the possibility of a hostage release mediated by Qatar, who have been speaking to Hamas, but said "any channel is a possibility as long as the goal is met"
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Shocking before and after aerial pictures show the full scale of the destruction of the Gaza Strip by deadly Israeli airstrikes.

Residential buildings, markets and mosques have been destroyed in retaliation for the attack launched by Hamas militants on Israels territories on 7 October.

Images of the enclave earlier this year offer a striking contrast to those taken in recent days, showing the extent of the damage amid the terror and devastation that have ripped across the region.

Satellite view shows Al-Karama in the Gaza Strip on 10 May, offering a striking contrast to those taken in recent days (via REUTERS)

The once-standing rows of buildings and homes can be seen to have mostly been reduced to charred remains and piles of grey ash.

In the pictures released by Maxar, the town of Beit Hanoun in the enclaves northeast corner is seen to have been levelled by airstrikes, with its hospital forced to stop operations this week due to the intense bombardment of the town.

Satellite view shows damaged areas in the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip on 21 October, mostly reduced to charred remains and piles of grey ash (via REUTERS)

The al-Karama neighbourhood was also pounded and its hospital now similarly out of service due to airstrikes.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said, amid a desperate shortage of fuel after Israel sealed off the territory, with fears fuel could entirely run out on Thursday.

Satellite view shows the Palestinian city of Beit Hanoun in the northern Gaza Strip on 1 May (via REUTERS)

Meanwhile, the before and after images of Atatra in northwest Gaza show nearly an entire neighborhood reduced to rubble.

After two weeks of devastating air raids, Israeli troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to "prepare the battlefield" ahead of a widely expected ground invasion.

Satellite view shows damaged areas in Atatra in the northern Gaza Strip on 21 October (via REUTERS)

The raid came after the UN warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamas' bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the war earlier this month.

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

Satellite view shows Atatra in the northern Gaza Strip on 10 May (via REUTERS)

Israeli retaliatory strikes have so far killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the health ministry there. More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas massacre.
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Watch a live view of the southern Israel skyline after the IDF said Israeli troops carried out a targeted raid in the Gaza Strip with tanks overnight.

In a statement, the IDF said the operation was carried out in preparation for the next stages of combat as troops prepare for a large-scale invasion.

Tanks entered Gaza overnight, attacking multiple Hamas targets before withdrawing.

Footage showed a bulldozer levelling a raised bank and tanks firing shells as explosions were seen close to a row of damaged buildings.

Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said Israel will enter Gaza but not when.

Israeli leaders have threatened a large-scale invasion as part of the war to destroy Hamas in the wake of the militant groups attack on 7 October.

Officials in Israel have said that more than 1,400 people there, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas rampage, have been killed.

According to the health ministry in Gaza, Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed more than 6,500 Palestinians.
 Close Netanyahu claims Israel will resign Hamas to the dustbin of history

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Israeli ground forces pushed deeper into Gaza, advancing in tanks and other armoured vehicles on the territorys main city and freeing a soldier held captive by Hamas militants.

This comes as Israeli prime minister rejected calls for a ceasefire, declaring a time for war amid continuing calls for a humanitarian pause in the conflict from the UK and other allies.

Calls for a cease-fire are calls for Israel to surrender to Hamas, Benjamin Netanyahu told a news conference. That will not happen.

Meanwhile, the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees told a UN emergency meeting yesterday that an immediate humanitarian ceasefire has become a matter of life and death for millions, accusing Israel of collective punishment of Palestinians and the forced displacement of civilians.

More than 8,300 people have been killed in Gaza  66 per cent of them women and children  and tens of thousands injured, the UN humanitarian office said, citing Gazas ministry of health.
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The Israeli military has launched limited raids into Gaza to kill Hamas gunmen and search for hostages taken from southern Israel. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it had attacked over 320 targets in Gaza in the last 24 hours, including terrorist infrastructure and military equipment.

Gazas trapped and densely-packed 2.3 million inhabitants have suffered constant retaliatory air strikes since the unprecedented Hamas attack, with more than 1,000 Palestinians killed and 5,000 injured.

Vowing to reduce Gaza to a city of tents, Israel has called up 300,000 reservists and claims to have created an iron wall of tanks, helicopters and aircraft around the enclave, pledging that Gaza will never return to what it was.

With an existing humanitarian crisis in Gaza now threatening to spiral into catastrophe as Israel shuts off electricity and already tight supplies of food and water, its inhabitants now face the prospect of the Israel Defence Forces unleashing the might of its significant firepower upon their towns and cities.

Here, The Independent speaks to experts about the Israel Defence Forces capabilities and how a ground invasion of Gaza could unfold.

How big is the Israeli military?

The IDF has three branches: the Israeli Ground Forces, the Israeli Air Force, and the Israeli Navy. In 2021, the Israeli military spend was $24.34bn (20bn).

Fixed-term military service has been compulsory for nearly all citizens over the age of 18 since the Israeli Declaration of Independence in 1948.

Israel is amassing troops near the Gaza border (PA)

There are currently 173,000 active soldiers in the Israeli army, including 8,000 commanders. The military has also called up 300,000 reservists to prepare for its largest ever mobilisation, with special flights being organised to bring reservists from abroad to join its efforts.

Israel is also drawing on its special forces from the Sayeret Matkal unit to fight against Hamas, who it is expected will aim to neutralise high-ranking fighters and rescue captured Israelis.

In total, Israel has 15 active infantry brigades, each around 3,000 troops strong, plus another 22 brigades in reserve  which contrasts with just seven in the British Army, according to Dr Frank Ledwidge, a senior lecturer in military strategy at the University of Portsmouth.

While reservists would likely not be committed to frontline fighting, the mass of the Israeli army deployed to Gaza would be further divided by concerns of uprisings in the occupied West Bank, and most importantly and formidably of Hezbollah in Lebanon, which is far stronger than Hamas, said Dr Ledwidge.

Israeli soldiers in Kfar Aza (Bel Trew/The Independent)

What weaponry does the Israeli army have?

Israel has already used 600 planes and 300 rocket launchers to strike Gaza. The air force is known for its Kfir fighter jets and also has a number of F-35 Lightning II jets obtained from the US. Israel is by far the strongest air force in the region, comparable with Turkey, said Dr Ledwidge.

Israel also has amazing capabilities for automated weaponry, said Dr Ledwidge, adding that there is a question to whether Israel is the first country to have executed an operation wherein [artificial intelligence] selects the targets for killing within the context of swarm drones.

Ground troops are drawing from an arsenal of around 1,100 third and fourth-generation Merkava tanks, which are similar to the German Leopard 2 battle tank widely used in Ukraine, with a thick front armour plate to provide maximum protection for its crew, and a 120mm main gun.

The Merkava tank is a main weapon weve seen in previous Israeli operations in the Gaza Strip and we are likely to see it again in the coming invasion, Dr Ahron Bregman, a former IDF major who served in the 1982 Lebanon war, told The Independent.

Where could Israel focus an invasion?

Whatever the Israelis do will be very much at the extreme end of plans which have been refined over nine years since the last incursion into Gaza in 2014, which lasted for a month, said Dr Ledwidge, adding that there is already evidence of a fairly systematic plan being executed.

Dr Bregman expects a ground invasion to be mainly, but not exclusively, into the northern Gaza Strip, which has so far seen the bulk of Israels aerial bombardment, although heavy and deadly strikes have been reported in the southern city of Khan Yunis, and other locations.

What Hamas want is to get those Israeli solders into their alleyways where they can exploit their local knowledge, says expert (REUTERS)

These airstrikes are aimed at preparing the ground for the invasion, including emptying the area of innocent residents  getting them out of the way so it would be easier to hit the enemy, Dr Bregman said, adding that northern Gazas more open and agricultral terrain makes it easy for Israeli tanks to manouvre.

As with previous operations, the invasion will involve carving up the strip and cutting off communications between the different sectors, particularly between Gaza and the rest, he added.

Dr Bregman added: Its hard to say, but I cant see how the military could achieve its main aim  weakening the military capabilities of Hamas  without moving into towns and even cities.

Israeli assaults on cities would open with massive [barrages] from air, land and sea, said Dr Bregman, adding: While inside urban areas, troops will try to move from house to house breaking internal walls rather than moving along roads.

What dangers do Israeli forces face?

The dangers to the Israelis fighting in urban areas are clear, as it is there that Hamas, equipped with Kornet anti-tank guided missiles, can cause much damage. Also, inside towns and cities Hamas got tunnels from where it could emerge, hit, and then retreat back, said Dr Bregman.

Dr Ledwidge agrees that you wont see tanks in built up areas  theyre much too vulnerable, and if you do theyre probably going to get killed.

An Israeli tank drives toward the Israeli southern border with the Gaza Strip (Getty Images)

The militants stock of drones now means also that for the first time for the Israelis, Israeli soldiers willl have to look up and make sure theyre not being spied on or bombed by drones, added Dr Ledwidge, a former military officer who has served in the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan.

In Gaza, Hamas also have the advantage of local knowledge, and of extensive preparation, and there is no doubt whatsoever they have very capable leadership, said Dr Ledwidge.

Describing Saturdays brutal incursion and slaughter of civilians as a come-on, in our parlance, he said What they want is to get those Israeli solders into their alleyways where they can exploit their local knowledge, the cover, the tunnel systems, use their new drone capabilities, and trap them and kill them there  which the Israelis are more than aware of and will offset, but thats the Hamas plan.

And they will have prepared ambushes, fortified positions, tunnels, weapons dump, human shields, hostages, and extensive information operations to support all of those things.

How long could an invasion last?

With Hamas having clearly long-planned their incursion, and Israel bracing its citizens for a long, long haul, both sides appear steeled for a drawn-out conflict.

Bombs drop on Gaza throughout night

Dr Ledwidge compared an invasion of Gaza to the battle against Isis in the Iraqi city of Mosul, which took many months to subdue  and in which Isis certainly hadnt prepared in the same way that Hamas has for years.

He added: While its not quite an immovable object meeting an irresistible force  because the Israeli army will prevail  the question is how many sides are both sides willing to sustain in this fight? And both sides are clearly not casualty-averse.

The Israelis consider themselves to have been defeated in Lebanon in 2006 when they lost 136 soldiers killed and were forced to retreat because of the political effect. Now that is not going to be an issue - they want this done, and are prepared to pay the cost for that.
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Palestinian group Hamas has launched its largest-ever attack on Israel, with militants launching thousands of rockets and storming through the Gaza border in an unprecedented assault.

In the deadliest assault Israel has suffered in generations, hundreds of soldiers and civilians living in settlements close to the border have been killed or abducted, after Hamas blew up observation posts and other fortifications and broke out of beseiged Gaza on motorbikes, speedboats and paragliders.

Two days after the shock incursion, Israel is still engaged in gunfights with Hamas fighters lodged within eight locations on its territory, with prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to root out every last militant and fire on all those hiding in Gaza  one of the worlds most densely-populated regions.

With Israel reporting at least 260 fatalities at a trance music festival in the Negev desert raided by Hamas militants armed with assault rifles and grenades, the groups actions have been widely condemned internationally, with the United States sending military assistance.

Here, The Independent takes a brief look at the groups history and aims:

What is Hamas?

The Hamas movement was founded in 1987 as an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt, shortly after the first of the intifada uprisings by Palestinians against Israel.

An acronym for Islamic Resistance Movement, which also means zeal in Arabic, Hamas was created on the three pillars of religion, charity and the fight against Israel  also establishing a military wing, the Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, named after the militant Syrian preacher first active in the 1920s.

A plume of smoke rises in the sky of Gaza City during an Israeli airstrike on the third day since Hamas launched its attack on Israel (AFP via Getty Images)

Hamas has controlled the Gaza Strip since winning the most recent elections in 2006, held a year after Israels withdrawal from the enclave, since which time its borders and airspace have been strictly controlled by Israel and Egypt.

While much of Gazas young population was born under Hamas rule, some older Palestinians who voted them in  many in frustation with corruption in the rival Palestinian Liberation Organisation (PLO)  have expressed regret over years of fatal repression from Israel partly stoked by Hamas militance.

What are Hamass aims?

Unlike the PLO, which has been the internationally recognised Palestinian leadership since its acceptance of Israels right to exist peacefully in 1993 led to the Oslo Accords, Hamas does not recognise the state of Israel.

Instead, Hamas advocates for a Palestinian state stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Jordan River based on its historical borders.

However, since 2017, Hamas has said it accepts a Palestinian state shaped around the borders of 1967, which existed prior to the war in which Israel occupied East Jerusalem, the West Bank and Gaza Strip  after it was invaded in a surprise attack by Egypt and Syria, echoed nearly 50 years to the day later by Saturdays incursion.

A Palestinian demonstrator throws rocks towards Israeli soldiers during clashes in the city of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank on Sunday (AFP via Getty Images)

What has Hamas said about the new attack?

Mohammed Deif, the shadowy leader of Hamas military wing, has said the assault named Operation Al-Aqsa Storm was in response to the 16-year blockade of Gaza, the Israeli occupation, and a series of recent provocations  including at Al-Aqsa mosque  which have brought tensions to fever pitch.

Weve decided to say enough is enough, said Mr Deif, announcing the launch of the attack on Saturday, adding: This is the day of the greatest battle end the last occupation on earth.

Ismail Haniyeh, the exiled political leader of Hamas, said on Saturday that the group was engaged in these historic moments in a heroic operation to defend the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem and the thousands of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Ismail Haniyeh said the incursion was a heroic operation as hundreds of Israeli civilians were killed (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

He claimed the assault would spread to the West Bank and Jerusalem, adding: This was the morning of defeat and humiliation upon our enemy, its soldiers and its settlers. What happened reveals the greatness of our preparation. What happened today reveals the weakness of the enemy.

How is Hamas received internationally?

Hamas is considered a terrorist organisation by the United Kingdom, the European Union, Egypt, United States, Canada and Japan.

However it has long been provided with funding and weapons by Iran, and has the support of Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which on Sunday exchanged rocket and artillery fire with Israel amid fears the conflict could spread.
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Described as the worlds largest open-air prison by human rights groups, the Gaza Strip is facing its biggest humanitarian crisis yet as airstrikes rain down on its civilian population.

Since the conflict began six days ago, more than 1,500 people have been killed by Israels retaliatory airstrikes, while a further 6,000 have been wounded with hundreds of children and families affected.

A 25-mile long enclave which has been the subject of a blockade since 2007, more than 65 per cent of its 2.3 million inhabitants live below the poverty line, with conditions for children previously described as hell on earth.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have now ordered roughly 1.2 million residents in northern Gaza to evacuate southward in what the United Nations has called an impossible task that will have devastating humanitarian consequences for the region.

View more

With the last power plant turned off and hospitals at capacity, the latest complete siege of the strip has blocked all electricity, food and water with no escape route available for its desperate citizens.

A brief history

A narrow wedge of land on the Mediterranean Sea that had once been part of the Ottoman Empire, the Gaza Strip was controlled by Egypt for two decades after Israel declared its statehood in 1948.

However, after Israels victory in the 1967 Six-Day War against its Arab neighbours, it came under their control for the next 38 years.

Over this period, Israeli troops oversaw the territory and the construction of 21 Jewish settlements began, causing tension and resentment to rise between both populations.

Smoke rises from Gaza City after Israeli airstrikes decimate buildings (Anadolu/Getty)

In 1993, a historic agreement was reached with the signing of the Oslo Accords, with Palestinians given limited control in Gaza and in the West Bank with envisaged statehood after five years. This never happened due to ongoing tensions, with Israel accusing the Palestinians of reneging on security agreements.

Facing international pressure, Israel eventually withdrew around 9,000 Israeli settlers and military personnel from the strip in 2005, leaving it to be governed by the internationally recognised Palestinian Authority.

Just one year later, Hamas led a surprising victory in the Palestinian election, and have controlled Gaza since 2007. Regarded as a terrorist organisation by the international community, Israel imposed a land, air and sea blockade which has crippled its economy.

Despite the devastating effect on Palestinian civilians and condemnation from the United Nations and human rights groups, Israel has maintained the blockade is necessary to protect their citizens from Hamas.

Can people leave and enter the Gaza strip?

Israels blockade has prevented people and goods from freely entering or leaving the strip, a move which has also been enforced by Egypt.

Palestinians in Gaza have been under a 16-year blockade (AFP via Getty Images)

The Israeli government forbids Palestinians from entering or leaving Gaza except in extremely rare cases, which include urgent, life-threatening medical conditions and a very short list of merchants, according to BTselem, an Israeli human rights group.

Israelis, Jewish settlers and tourists are not subject to these restrictions and are free to travel in and out. Egypt also periodically closes its land-border crossing at Rafah, which is often the only way Palestinians in Gaza can access the rest of the world.

The International Committee of the Red Cross deems the blockade illegal and says it violates the Geneva Convention while the UN and various human rights groups consider the Gaza Strip to still be under military occupation by Israel.

Israel reserves the right to enter Gaza at will with its military and maintains a no-go buffer zone within the Gaza territory.

What are the living conditions in Gaza?

With over two million Palestinians living within roughly 140 square miles, Gaza is one of the worlds most densely populated territories, with half of its occupants under the age of 19.

Last year Save the Children reported that 80 per cent of Gazan children suffer from depression (AP)

Described as an open-air prison by Human Rights Watch and bordered by walls and fences, conditions in Gaza have long since been difficult with 95 per cent surviving without access to clean water.

Eight recognised refugee camps span the strip with its exhausted economy struggling to create job opportunities and its population reliant on international aid.

Despite these challenges, life has continued in the besieged enclave, with a number of universities providing educational courses and markets sellings locally crafted goods. Catering to around 16,000 students, Al-Azhar University provides courses in agriculture, medical scientists and dentistry while the Al-Quds Open University operates six centres across Palestine.

A number of residential buildings have been destroyed with at least 900 Palestinians killed (Maxar )

Recent airstrikes have targeted the Islamic University of Gaza since Saturday, with Israel describing it as a training institution for the development and production of weapons.

Along the coast, fishermen who are able to work within the 15 nautical mile fishing limit continue to sell their produce, while small restaurants along the coast sell fresh sardines and watermelons.

Speaking to The Independent, Dr Nathaniel George, a lecturer in Middle East Politics at SOAS University said: that a ground attack from Israel will likely be the most extensive of all that have come before now.

What they are doing now is bombing 2.3 million people trapped in 140 square miles with very little ability to defend themselves. Half the population are children. Israel is levelling entire city blocks, cutting off electricity and gas, and endangering medical provisions for the injured. A ground attack will lead to more civilian deathswhich is not a political solution to the crisis.

There must be international pressure for a ceasefire and political negotiations to settle all the outstanding issues of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
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Instagram Threads could become a billion-person app, Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg has said.

The chief executive hit out against predictions that the app was losing steam, saying that it continued to keep its momentum. Threads also remains a compelling long-term opportunity, and were excited to build on the strong product momentum we have going into next year, the companys chief financial officer Susan Li said.

Meta launched Threads three months ago, as part of an attempt to take over from Twitter. It became the fastest growing app in the world, seemingly helped by dissatisfaction with Twitter, but has lost some of its attention amid criticism of the apps design and features.

But Meta said as it revealed its latest results that it was still focusing on Threads and expected it to grow. Eventually, it could have a billion people, Mr Zuckerberg suggested.

Ive thought for a long time there should be a billion-person public conversations app that is a bit more positive, Mr Zuckerberg said in the earnings call. I think that if we keep at this for a few more years, then I think we have a good chance of achieving our vision there.

Instagram boss Adam Mosseri said on Threads that the company will be focusing on support for Europe  where it remains unavailable owing to privacy concerns  as well as better compatibility with other apps and Instagram.

Mr Zuckerberg also reiterated his focus on the metaverse and augmented reality, another key focus for the company that has led to some criticism from those who claim it has failed to live up to its potential. That technology, alongside artificial intelligence, remains the companys long-term focus, he said.

Generative artificial intelligence will get more important in the future, Mr Zuckerberg said. But he pointed to existing AI features that power the feeds inside Metas apps, for instance.
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Locals in the Austrian town that was rumoured to have inspired Disneys Frozen have taken to protesting in the streets against overtourism.

Residents of Hallstatt are fed-up with crowds flocking to their home town, part of a Unesco World Heritage Site thats home to a permanent population of just 800 but which sees up to 10,000 tourists pouring in each day during peak season, reports Insider.

Photos from the pretty town, on the shores of an Alpine lake and bordered by mountains, show protestors blocking a tunnel through which the main road into the town runs.

This summer, activists held signs with various messages, including radical limits for mass tourism, tourism yes  mass tourism no, and visitors limitation, reclaim habitat.

Its not the first time that Hallstatt locals have taken steps to battle overtourism. In May, two wooden fences were constructed at the foot of the Salzkammergut Mountains to obstruct lakeside views of the area  stopping people from posing in front of the famous selfie backdrop.

However, after backlash on social media, the fences were removed.

The towns mayor previously introduced a cap on the number of tour buses and cars allowed to enter the area.

In 2006, Hallstatt featured in a South Korean romantic drama, bringing it to the attention of audiences in Asia, with a replica of the town even being built in Guangdong, China, in 2011.

But it was catapulted to worldwide fame after a rumour spread that the fictional kingdom of Arendelle in the 2013 movie Frozen was based on Hallstatt  despite the art director of the film revealing they travelled to Norway and Canada for inspiration.

Many places in Europe have been introducing measures to tackle the issue of overtourism, such as Venice. Last month, the Italian city announced that day-trippers will be charged 5 to enter the historic centre from next year under long-awaited plans.

According to Responsible Travel, 20 million visitors flood Venice each year. On its busiest days, around 120,000 people can visit  dwarfing the 55,000-strong community of permanent residents.
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Following the outbreak of war in Israel, anxieties in bordering countries have been rising amid fears the fighting will spread to neighbouring territories.

Lebanon shares a border with Israel to the south, and the historic tensions between the two are threatening to flare up again, with Hezbollah  a Lebanese militant group  an important component in the potential escalation of the conflict.

On 18 October, AP reported that militants were killed on the Israeli-Lebanese border, while the US later warned citizens not to travel to Lebanon after the US embassy in Beirut was set on fire by protesters in the wake of President Bidens visit to Israel.

Here is the latest information on whether the country remains safe for foreign travellers.

Where is Lebanon?

open image in gallery Lebanon sits on the Mediterranean Sea, sharing the border with Israel to the south (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Lebanon sits to the north of Israel, bordering Syria to the north and the east. The capital, Beirut, sits along the Mediterranean Sea, and was a target of Israeli bombings during the Lebanon War in 2006.

Skirmishes between Israel and militant groups have so far been limited to areas around the border in the south, with an anti-tank missile shot from Lebanon landing in the northern Israeli town of Metula on the morning of 17 October.

What does the Foreign Office say?

The latest update from the Foreign Office (FCDO), dated 18 October, states that You are advised against all travel to the whole of Lebanon. If you are currently in Lebanon, we encourage you to leave now while commercial options remain available.

British nationals in Lebanon should register their presence with the FCDO through the link in Travel Advice. The website also states that if your passport contains an Israeli stamp, you may be refused entry to Lebanon even if you hold a valid Lebanese visa.

If you are a British national currently in Lebanon, the FCDO urges you to register your presence in the country in order to provide updates.

As recently as 18 October, the official advice had been to avoid all but essential travel to much of the country, but this has changed in the wake of intensifying clashes and unrest. The FCDO states that events in Lebanon are fast moving. The situation has potential to deteriorate quickly and with no warning.

Commercial routes out of Lebanon could be severely disrupted or cancelled at short notice and roads across the country could be closed.

Regarding the conflict in Israel specifically, it says: [The] FCDO advises against all travel to Lebanon due to risks associated with the conflict between Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories. There are ongoing mortar, artillery exchanges and airstrikes in South Lebanon, on the border with Israel. Tensions are high and events could escalate with little warning, which could affect or limit exit routes out of Lebanon.

There is also a risk of civil unrest. There have been large protests outside embassies, including outside the US and French embassies on 17 October. Further protests are expected. British Nationals should exercise caution and avoid areas where demonstrations may be held.

Additional security risks are present in Lebanon due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping, with groups mainly operating in Tripoli, areas close to the Syrian border (such as around Hermel and Aarsal), Palestinian refugee camps and the southern suburbs of Beirut. The FCDO states that terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Lebanon, adding that violence may occur between security forces, protesters and supporters of political groups.

What about flights to and from Lebanon?

Flights from the UK to Lebanon are currently operating as normal.

Will my insurance be invalid if I travel to Lebanon?

Anyone who chooses to travel to Lebanon will immediately have their travel insurance invalidated unless they have a specialist policy, as the FCDO advises against all travel to the country.

The conditions for cancelling your trip will be dependent on your provider, though if you have a trip already booked to Lebanon, you should be able to cancel and make an insurance claim as the Foreign Office is now advising against all travel there.

If already in Lebanon, contact your airline and insurance provider to find out the conditions of travelling home early.
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The off-duty pilot who allegedly tried to crash an Alaska Airlines plane mid-flight was once the safety officer at his flying club in California.

Joseph Emerson, 44, was the safety officer for the NRI Flying Club in Concord, California, for two years before leaving the post in 2019, the New York Post reported.

He was an authorised instructor in the NRI Flying Club and served for a year or two as the club safety officer where he promoted a culture of safety and continuous training, club president Adam Silverthorne said.

Mr Emerson was charged with 83 counts of attempted murder after he allegedly tried to cut off fuel to the engines during a flight from Seattle to San Francisco on Sunday  before being subdued by the flight crew.

Alaska Airlines said that Mr Emerson was travelling in the flight deck jump seat in the cockpit when he suddenly tried to shut down both of the planes engines by pulling the fire extinguisher handles.

Mr Emerson was then arrested and escorted off the plane. None of the 80 passengers on board the flight were hurt.

Mr Emersons motive for the incident remains unclear, but Alaska Airlines said Mr Emerson did not have a history of medical issues.

Throughout his career, Emerson completed his mandated FAA medical certifications in accordance with regulatory requirements, and at no point were his certifications denied, suspended or revoked, Alaska Airlines said in a statement.

A Federal Aviation Administration pilot database also showed Mr Emerson received a medical clearance last month.

After the plane made an emergency landing in Portland, Mr Emerson admitted to police that he had had a nervous breakdown and had taken psychedelic mushrooms two days earlier.

He told police he had not slept in 40 hours and that he had struggled with depression for the past six months.

I pulled both emergency shut-off handles because I thought I was dreaming and I just wanna wake up, he told police according to court documents.

Alaska Airlines said they are deeply disturbed by the 44-year-olds actions.

Joseph David Emerson, left, 44, was arraigned in Multnomah County Circuit Court on Tues (AP)

Mr Silverthorne said it is impossible to imagine Mr Emerson trying to hurt anyone.

Its impossible for me to imagine him intentionally trying to harm anyone, its just not who he is, he said.

One of the 44-year-olds neighbours also echoed this.

He plays with the kids all the time, Karen Yee told the Daily Mail.

Hes just a great guy. Hes very understanding of other people, she said.

We just couldnt imagine him doing anything to hurt someone. Its very hard for us to believe that he would do anything intentionally like that, she added. I cant fathom him doing anything that would hurt anyone.

Mr Emerson first joined the Alaska Air Group in 2001 as a first officer with Horizon before becoming a pilot with the airline in 2019.
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Following the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas militants in Gaza and the escalating tensions in the region, the US State Department has issued a worldwide travel advisory, warning Americans to exercise increased caution to avoid becoming victims of possible terror attacks.

The alert came after widespread protests have broken out across the Middle East after hundreds are believed to have died in an explosion at the al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza.

Palestinian officials have blamed an Israeli airstrike for the blast, while the Israeli military said the Palestinian Islamic Jihad militant group is responsible  blaming an alleged faulty launch of a rocket intended to hit Israel. The PIJ has also denied responsibility.

US officials, including President Joe Biden, have sided with the IDF, publicly stating that Israel Probably Did Not Bomb Gaza Strip Hospital.

The explosion caused widespread anger across the Middle East, including in Lebanon where protestors set the US embassy in Beirut on fire.

The US initially issued travel advice warning Americans not to travel to Lebanon, but the advisory has since been updated to caution US citizens travelling anywhere in the world.

The move came one day after Mr Biden returned from a visit to Tel Aviv to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, pledging the USs support for Israel.

So is it safe for Americans to travel right now?

The latest government advisory warns all Americans to exercise caution when travelling anywhere in the world  and specifically not to travel to Gaza, the West Bank, Israel and Lebanon.

The worldwide travel advisory, issued by the State Department on 20 October, warned Americans to exercise caution when travelling due to the possibility of terror attacks.

Due to increased tensions in various locations around the world, the potential for terrorist attacks, demonstrations or violent actions against US citizens and interests, the Department of State advises US citizens overseas to exercise increased caution, the agency warned.

US citizens should stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.

The State Department has also urged Americans not to travel to Gaza due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, and armed conflict. US citizens have also been urged to reconsider travelling to the West Bank and Israel.

US embassy in Beirut is in flames amid protests (Anadolu via Getty Images)

Terrorist groups, lone-actor terrorists and other violent extremists continue plotting possible attacks in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza. Terrorists and violent extremists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities, the department warned.

Violence can occur in Israel and the West Bank and Gaza without warning, the advisory continued.

The State Department also noted that there has been a marked increase in demonstrations throughout Israel, some with little or no warning.

A do not travel advisory was also issued for Lebanon following the outbreak of violent protests outside the US embassy in Beirut.

The advisory warned Americans to avoid demonstrations and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings due to the unpredictable security situation related to rocket, missile, and artillery exchanges between Israel and Hizballah or other armed militant factions.

Non-emergency US government workers and their families have been authorised to leave the four regions.
Bruno Tonioli was seen in tears after a moving tribute to his late friend and Strictly Come Dancing co-star Len Goodman aired on Dancing with the Stars, the American iteration of the dance series.

On Tuesday night (24 October), the US show paid homage to the ballroom dancer, who retired from the competition series last November, months before his death.

Professional dancers performed a specially choreographed number to Henry Mancinis Moon River and a recording of Goodmans voice was heard at the end of the performance, saying: All good things must come to an end.

Tonioli could be seen crying as fellow judge Carrie Ann Inaba comforted him at the end of the tribute.
Bianca Williams cried as she described how she is now always on edge following a police stop-and-search

carried out while she and her partner Ricardo dos Santos had their three-month-old baby in their car.

The Team GB athlete, 29, and the Olympic sprinter, 28, were handcuffed and searched on suspicion of having drugs and weapons in July 2020 after police followed them as they drove to their west London home from a training session.

Two Metropolitan Police constables have been sacked for gross misconduct after a disciplinary hearing on Wednesday (25 October) found they lied about smelling cannabis during the stop and search.
A press conference held in Tel Aviv with the families of Hamas hostages was interrupted by air raid sirens.

Crowds of people gathered on Thursday October 26 to hear from relatives of some of the over 200 people taken prisoner by Hamas in Gaza.

While one of the relatives was talking on stage, sirens started to sound and people immediately looked for shelter.

A few minutes later, explosions were seen over buildings in Tel Aviv as the Iron Dome was striking down what looked like two missiles.
Israeli troops carried out a targeted raid in the Gaza Strip with tanks overnight, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has said.

In a statement, the IDF said the operation was carried out in preparation for the next stages of combat as troops prepare for a large-scale invasion.

Tanks entered Gaza overnight, attacking multiple Hamas targets before withdrawing.

Footage showed a bulldozer levelling a raised bank and tanks firing shells as explosions were seen close to a row of damaged buildings.

Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly said Israel will enter Gaza but not when.
The White House has asked new House speaker Mike Johnson to "work together" on gun legislation in the wake of mass shootings in Maine.

A manhunt continued on Thursday 26 October to catch the armed and dangerous suspect wanted in connection to two shootings in Lewiston, Maine, that left 18 people dead and 13 injured.

"The House has a new speaker, who has said he is ready to get to work and find common ground," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said in her afternoon briefing.

Now is the time to find common ground. Let us work together to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
The grim warning by the United Nations that it will soon have to end its vital humanitarian work in Gaza due to Israels blockade should be taken very seriously. There is now an overwhelming case for a pause in the war on humanitarian grounds to allow in food, medicines and, crucially, fuel to prevent the lives of more innocent people in Gaza from being lost.

According to the UN, more than a third of hospitals in Gaza and nearly two-thirds of primary health clinics have shut down due to damage or lack of fuel. The UN says some 1.4 million people are homeless.

Israel should bow to growing international pressure, including from the US and UK governments, for such a pause. Understandably, the Israeli government does not want fuel to end up in the hands of Hamas; it claims the terrorist group has stockpiled supplies sent in previously. Israel will view a temporary lull, as the US secretary of state Antony Blinken called it, as a slippery slope that would inevitably be followed by calls for a permanent ceasefire. Indeed, in the UK that is the goal of the 83 MPs, mainly from Labour and the Scottish National Party, who have signed a Commons motion calling for an immediate de-escalation and cessation of hostilities.
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Habemus Speaker. After 22 days, four nominees, and immeasurable national embarrassment at this entire circus, Republicans in the House of Representatives have finally gotten their crap together and elected a new Speaker of the House. That would be good news, if the man selected and the caucus that selected him were not so intent on destroying our nation.

In some ways, this is a lesson to me in being careful what I wish for. Over the past three weeks I have desperately prayed that House Republicans would find someone  anyone  to lead them. Whether I like it or not, they have the majority in the House, and the House needs a Speaker to properly function. The dysfunction  a word which feels like an understatement given the absolute embarrassment of the past 22 days  exhibited by the GOP should be disqualifying in the next election. Our nation became a global laughingstock because one of our chambers was held hostage by a party more interested in destroying democracy than legislating for the American people.

Our new speaker, Mike Johnson, is a prime example of that dysfunction and the disaster it has and will continue to wrought. A far-right congressman from Louisiana, Johnson once worked for the Alliance Defending Freedom, which the Southern Poverty Law Center warns is a hate group. A dyed-in-the-MAGA-red-wool acolyte of the twice impeached, multiply-indicted Donald Trump, Johnson is every bit the authoritarian the real leader of the Republican Party is.

Given the former presidents quick dispatching of previous Speaker nominee Tom Emmer of Minnesota for being insufficiently loyal, we can only assume Trump feels certain Johnson will do his bidding in the House. Despite Johnson vowing to find common ground with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and his fellow Democrats, make no mistake: Johnson is Trumps new man in Washington.

If that wasnt frightening enough, take a look at his voting record. Johnson voted to overturn the 2020 election, supports a nationwide abortion ban, opposes equal marriage and last year introduced a federal version of Floridas Dont Say Gay bill. He has attacked transgender healthcare access, is a climate change denier, and opposes aid to Ukraine.

It is hard to celebrate a man who clearly despises so many Americans being elevated to two heartbeats from the presidency itself. This is a man for whom equality applies only to those who look and think like him, a man whose record proves he believes himself to be a better judge of how you and I live than we ourselves are.

Perhaps nothing indicates the contempt in which Johnson and his ilk hold us than their booing of a reporter last night. ABC News Rachel Scott asked Johnson about his efforts to overturn the 2020 election  a perfectly reasonable question given the fact that Johnson will likely be the man overseeing the certification of the 2024 election. She was met with a chorus of boos from Republican Representatives flanking a smirking Johnson, with one of them  arch-conservative Virginia Foxx of North Carolina  telling her to shut up.

Rather than answer the question, Johnson ignored her. It was a galling scene, one which illustrated his contempt for the free press and for legitimate scrutiny and oversight. This is not the behaviour of a man who believes in democracy, but of a man who believes he is above being questioned by the fourth estate. It is a blatant disrespect of press freedom enshrined in the First Amendment, and of the role the press plays in advocating for and informing the American people.

We shouldnt be surprised, though. Johnsons aforementioned record illustrates an utter contempt for the civil rights and liberties of his fellow citizens. The Fourteenth Amendments guarantee to equal protection under the law? Not for gay couples. The right to privacy it guarantees  or did until five justices overturned half-a-century of Constitutional precedent? Not in Johnsons world. The only rights you have are the rights he and his fellow far-right travelers grant you. From the looks of it, those will be few and far between.

That makes this whole charade even more frustrating. Johnson was likely palatable to moderate Republicans  I do not believe such a thing exists anymore, but for arguments sake let us pretend  in ways that Jim Jordan and Steve Scalise werent because unlike their foaming-at-the-mouth vitriol, Johnson is cordial. Affable, even; Jeffries even concedes he has a pleasant demeanor.

Perhaps. I do not know Johnson and make no claims about him as a person. He may be a lovely neighbour, a good friend, and an agreeable enough colleague. All this can be true, and he still be utterly unfit to govern.

With wars in Ukraine and Gaza, with a government shutdown looming, with a climate crisis raging from Maui to Manhattan, and with a deeply divided nation looking for someone to unite us, the American people deserve a leader who does more than smirk at reporters and pass Donald Trumps absurd loyalty test. That is not what we get in Mike Johnson.

Instead, a Johnson speakership guarantees the MAGA agenda will continue to dominate House business despite being thoroughly rejected by the American people in multiple elections. It means disruption and chaos. Johnson can put a smiley face on shutting down the government, denying aid to our ally fighting a hostile invasion, or stripping Americans of Constitutional rights they hold dear, but the result is still the same  an authoritarian assault on our democracy and freedom. Mike Johnsons demeanour may be pleasant enough, but the consequences for our nation will be anything but.
SouthPointe Pavilions on Tuesday announced it will be adding four new tenants, including a well-known national clothing retailer.

The biggest name among the four is J. Crew Factory, a specialty clothing retailer that makes men's, women's and children's clothing. The store is scheduled to open on the Friday after Thanksgiving in a 5,413-square-foot space across from lululemon at the mall at 27th Street and Pine Lake Road.

It will be the first J. Crew location in Lincoln and join a store at Nebraska Crossing in Gretna as the only locations in Nebraska.

Toy retailer Toy Time plans to open a 6,418-square-foot location at the mall sometime in November. The store, which will be adjacent to Sephora, will carry an inventory of more than 10,000 toy and craft items.

Furniture retailer Lovesac plans to open a store in February adjacent to lululemon. The 3,065-square-foot store will carry the company's popular modular couches that are known as "Sactionals" and its foam beanbag chairs known as "Sacs." The store also sells a variety of home decor.

The fourth tenant is a restaurant called Jojo's Diner, which is set to open by the end of the month in a space shared with Ika Ramen. The eatery, which has three Omaha locations, describes itself as a "modern take on the traditional diners of midcentury America." It serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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The Met Office has extended alerts for heavy rain over the weekend as Scotland braces for floods again after the havoc wreaked by Storm Babet.

The weather agency extended its latest warning for heavy rain over the area by a further 24 hours, meaning it will be in place over much of the weekend.

The forecaster earlier issued two yellow weather warnings for Friday, the first for potentially heavy rain in Scotland and the second for possible disruption due to fog in parts of eastern England.

The warning in Scotland covers Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross  areas that have already seen prolonged downpours last week including flooding from Storm Babet.

The warning was originally to run from 12pm on Thursday to 12pm on Saturday, but will now remain in place until 12pm on Sunday.

Rainfall this week comes after heavy showers brought by Storm Babet have led to the deaths of seven people, including three people north of the border.

Brechin in Angus was the worst affected area in northeast Scotland, where hundreds of homes ended up being evacuated after the South Esk river breached its banks.

An area of low pressure becomes firmly in charge over the next few days to bring plenty of showers and further rainfall, especially to parts of eastern Scotland, the Met Office said on Wednesday.

There is a possibility of some localised impacts from rivers and surface water on Thursday and Friday in the north east, Caithness and Sunderland, and Easter Ross and Great Glen due to further heavy rain, said the latest Scottish Flood Forecast update.

Rivers levels in the north east are not forecast to be as high as experienced during Storm Babet and widespread significant flooding is not currently expected.

Elsewhere, Network Rail Scotland warned: More extremely heavy rain is on the way. It wont be to the levels from Storm Babet, but it will affect the same areas, already with saturated ground. It will bring a risk of flooding.

Additional reporting by agencies
AIB will pay a staff bonus of up to 5pc of salary or 12,700 next year, reintroducing whats referred to as variable remuneration for the first time since its taxpayer funded bailout more than a decade ago.

The bank will also introduce healthcare benefits to all employees, which was also banned under the tough terms imposed sector wide after the bailouts.

In a statement AIB confirmed benefits will be paid next year. The bonus in 2024 will be in respect of the financial performance of the now highly profitable bank in 2023. It is capped below the maximum 20,000 a year currently allowed by Government.

"Following the easing of some Government remuneration restrictions in December 2022 and AIB Groups return to sustainable profitability, AIB is announcing the provision for the first time of healthcare benefits to all employees. The bank will also introduce a measured variable remuneration scheme subject to the achievement of a range of performance targets across the business, AIB said.

AIB and other lenders have said their inability to pay bonuses or provide other perks has put them at a disadvantage in terms of staff recruitment and retention in recent years.

It said the decision to provide healthcare benefits in particular followed employee engagement. The bank will now for the first time provide health insurance for all its employees in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, through Vhi and Bupa.

AIB Chief People Officer David McCormack said The health and wellbeing of our employees continues to be a key priority for us. The introduction of healthcare is a very significant step forward and a demonstration of our continued commitment to providing a supportive workplace in AIB.

The move was welcomed by the Financial Services Union (FSU), which represents many AIB workers.

The FSU have campaigned hard for the introduction of a health insurance scheme and for the reinstatement of variable pay for ordinary bank staff. This agreement is a culmination of an enormous amount of work and is just reward for the professionalism and loyalty of Bank staff, the union said.
The late David Barclay and his twin brother Frederick bought the Telegraph newspapers in 2004 (Michael Stephens/PA)

Belgian publisher Mediahuis, which owns the Irish Independent, has expressed an interest in buying British newspaper the Telegraph, two sources told Reuters, joining other newspaper publishers, media moguls and billionaires competing to buy the right-leaning broadsheet and The Spectator magazine.

The boards of the parent companies behind The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph, as well as The Spectator announced the start of a sale process earlier this month.

Goldman Sachs is advising on the sale and has started sending information about the businesses to a double-digit list of interested parties, one of the people said, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The Telegraph titles could fetch between 480m (552m) and 600m, based on a multiple of 8-10 times forecast 2023 core earnings of 60m, Enders Analysis said last month.

The titles are being sold after Lloyds Banking Group in June seized control of the parent company in a long-running dispute with former owners, the Barclay family, over more than 1bn of unpaid debt secured against the businesses.

The two media outlets are being sold separately but some interested parties will be bidding for both, one person said.

Spokespeople for Goldman Sachs, Mediahuis and the Telegraph board declined to comment.

Privately-owned Mediahuis, founded in 2014, has acquired news brands in Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland and Germany, and owns titles including De Standaard, De Telegraaf, and the Irish Independent and Belfast Telegraph.

It is looking to expand in Britain but it may not proceed with a bid, a second person said.

Gert Ysebaert, chief executive of Mediahuis, told the Financial Times in 2019 that it was interested in buying the Telegraph newspapers if they ever came up for sale.

The Barclays bought Telegraph Media Group in 2004 for 665m.

Other groups that have confirmed, or have been reported to be interested, include Daily Mail owner, Lord Rothermere's DMGT, National World, Germany's Axel Springer, hedge fund founder Paul Marshall and Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.
CHC told to pay Bristows legal costs in dispute over 800m search-and-rescue contract

Company taking action to challenge Governments helicopter deal with rival US firm

CHC currently operates Irelands search-and-rescue helicopters. Photo: Brendan Gleeson

John Mulligan Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 17:41

The Irish arm of CHC, the US company that operates the countrys search-and-rescue helicopters, has been ordered to pay the legal costs of rival Bristow linked to a dispute over the awarding of a new 800m government contract for the service.
The Finance Minister has begun courting other countries support for Dublins bid to host the EUs newest financial watchdog.

Michael McGrath told a gathering of EU diplomats at the NTMAs North Wall headquarters yesterday that awarding the agency to a smaller country would make a powerful statement and help dilute the concentration of activities in existing centres.

Frankfurt, Paris and Luxembourg, which already host big-name EU institutions and agencies, are among 10 countries to express an interest in hosting the new anti-money laundering agency (AMLA). A deadline for official applications closes on November 10.

We are convinced that we have a very strong case, given the strength of our international financial services sector here in Ireland, the connectivity that Dublin offers, the diversity, the multicultural aspect of our society, Mr McGrath told the Irish Independent.

We are convinced that we will do a good job, given the opportunity, but its going to be really competitive.

MEPs, who have been traditionally critical of Irelands reputation on tax and money laundering  repeatedly labelling the country a tax haven  will have a vote for the first time on the AMLA.

We are convinced that we have a very strong case

Just this week, the Paris-based EU Tax Observatory classed Ireland as a tax haven, saying firms here paid an effective tax rate of just 7pc in 2020.

I think we can point to a track record of reform in recent years, when you consider the whole range of changes on corporation tax, Mr McGrath said. I think weve got a strong argument in favour of Ireland, in that sense, and we look forward to explaining our case to all of our colleagues in the European Parliament.

The AMLA is the mainstay of the blocs new rulebook to fight financial crime, which is in the final stages of talks in Brussels.

It is expected to start off with between 250 and 400 staff, but Irish officials estimate there could be 600 people employed there by the end of the decade.

According to conditions laid out by the European Commission, a host country must have access to qualified staff, suitable office space, adequate accommodation and public transport and appropriate jobs, schools, benefits and healthcare for families of agency staff.

The country should also have good track record on fighting money laundering.

Ireland lost out to Paris in a race to secure the EUs banking regulator from London six years ago.
The company makes ingredients from fish for human and animal foods

A Co Monaghan-based marine ingredients company has applied to the High Court, seeking protection from its creditors while it attempts to finalise a rescue plan that it hopes will ensure its survival.

The application has been brought on behalf of Bio Marine Ingredients Ireland Ltd, which currently employs eight staff and is based at Lough Eglish in Castleblaney, Co Monaghan.

The company makes ingredients from fish for human and animal foods.

It is hoped that it can survive into the future if certain proposals can be agreed with its creditors.

The company got into difficulty due to several factors, including higher than expected R&D costs, and the underperformance of a contract with a Korean supplier, due to the impact of Covid.

Arising out of its insolvency, the firm entered a process called the Small Company Administrative Rescue Process  or Scarp  which is designed to help insolvent smaller businesses to re-organise in a cost-effective way.

In order for the Scarp to succeed, the company has asked the court to put a temporary halt on all legal actions by its creditors.

Yesterday, Mr Justice Mark Sanfey was told that six creditors have threatened the firm with either legal or enforcement proceedings.

The creditors  who between them claim they are owed over 400,000  include its landlord Americold Ltd, Bord Gais, and various service providers.

Unlike the examinership process, counsel said that firms that enter the Scarp do not automatically obtain protection from their creditors while that process is in train.

In order to get such protection, firms must make an application under the Companies Acts to the courts for orders preventing the creditors from bringing proceedings over debts during the rescue period.

Insolvency practitioner Declan de Lacy has been appointed as the companys process advisor. Counsel yesterday said Mr de Lacy has found that the company has a good prospect of survival.

The company expects to increase its sales volume in the near future as several major new customers have come on board. The company has also secured additional investment.

Mr Justice Sanfey, on an ex-parte (one side only represented) basis. granted the firm permission to serve short notice of the application on the firms creditors.

The court directed that all of the creditors, and Revenue are to be put on notice of the companys application.

The matter will return before the court next week.
Asking for a friend: After three cycles of IVF, my boyfriend is insisting we try again, but Im not sure if I want to have a child anymore. Do we have a future together?
Americas loss can be Europes gain  Coinbase chief legal officer Paul Grewal on its big move to Ireland and an anti-crypto campaign in the US

The crypto platform says the US is campaigning against the currency-trading industry and that Europe can become its new regulatory base

Paul Grewal, chief legal officer of Coinbase. Photo: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg

Adrian Weckler Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 03:30

Coinbase has had something of a rollercoaster year. As one of the two biggest crypto-trading platforms in the world, it is a bellwether for the slings and arrows of the industry.
Revenue in the fiscal first quarter, which ended on September 30, rose 13pc to $56.5bn (53.4bn), the most in six quarters and topping analysts average projections. Profit was $2.99 a share, the software maker said in a statement. Azure cloud-services sales gained 29pc, compared with 26pc growth in the previous quarter.

Chief executive officer Satya Nadella is revamping the companys entire product suite, including Office, Windows, search and security software, to add features based on OpenAI technology. The partnership has helped Microsoft lure corporate customers keen to use ChatGPT and other new technologies  which answer questions and generate content  in their own applications. The company, which already counts most businesses as clients of its productivity tools and operating systems, has also been testing a pricier, AI-enhanced version of its Office software.

If we see stabilisation in Azure then the euphoria returns, said Dan Morgan, senior portfolio manager at Synovus Trust. Enterprise software within tech is probably one of the best spaces now and Microsoft looks pretty strong.

Shares rose 3.6pc in premarket trading on Wednesday, after closing at $330.53 in New York.

If the gains hold, it would be the biggest increase since July 18. The stock fell 7.3pc in the three months ending in September, a steeper drop than the 3.6pc decline posted by the S&P 500 Index during that period.

Microsofts results, and the investor enthusiasm that followed, contrasted with a third-quarter earnings report from rival Alphabet, parent of Google, which has been trying to catch Azure in cloud-computing market share.

Alphabets revenue and profit from its cloud business missed analysts estimates, sending shares down 6.5pc in early trading.

The two companies, which both trail Amazon.com in cloud infrastructure, have been racing to build up their AI offerings as a way to make their platforms more enticing to customers. Amazon is set to report its quarterly results on Thursday.

In the recent period, Microsoft reported better-than-projected commercial sales, while a steadier personal-computer market helped shore up revenue. Internet search, a service the software maker has imbued with the same technology as ChatGPT, also generated higher sales than forecast, chief financial officer Amy Hood said in an interview.

She said Microsoft gained share in markets like cloud, security software and business applications in areas such as finance and customer management.

It was good execution, the PC market a little better and cloud numbers a little better, said Ms Hood, explaining why overall quarterly revenue far exceeded her July forecast. Im pretty pleased.
The UK has about three years to come up with rules to reassure people about artificial intelligence before changes in the way work is done unleashes the potential for social unrest, an industry expert said.

Martin Weis, managing partner and global co-lead for AI at Infosys Consulting, said about 30pc of the hours people put in on the job in places like the US and Britain could be done by technology by 2030. Back-office tasks like administration are most likely to be affected, threatening to upend millions of jobs.

The remarks ahead of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks AI Summit next week underscore the stakes for policy makers facing a rapid shift in the nature of work  and what kind of skills the labour market will need.

Mr Weis warned that governments must quickly grasp the shake-up  or risk angering thousands of employees who are affected. That could involve investing in education and re-skilling, legislating to minimise the impact of AI, or even providing a basic income to help those who lose their jobs.

I would say we have two to three years, because now people are trying it out, Mr Weis said in an interview, referring to generative AI such as OpenAIs ChatGPT. Unless governments plan ahead, he added, the profits from productivity gains brought about by AI will fall into the hands of a few private sector firms  while the average worker could be left jobless and local economies poorer.

His warning comes ahead of Mr Sunaks AI Summit, which will see the UK host a range of global leaders in the sector to discuss the opportunities and risks of the technology. For Mr Sunak, whose father-in-law Narayana Murthy founded Infosys, its a chance for him to set out the UKs stall as a forward-thinking technology-centred economy  one of the ways he plans to boost output growth.

Ahead of the summit, the Institute for Public Policy Research published a report claiming the gathering could be a missed opportunity as it focuses on self-regulation.

Echoing Mr Weis, the think-tank said that deep global cooperation is needed and that governments need to set out their own bold strategy for AI, ensuring that the technology is used for public good as well as profit.

Self-regulation didnt work for social media companies, said Carsten Jung, senior economist at the IPPR. It didnt work for the finance sector, and it wont work for AI. We shouldnt just passively anticipate technological developments and hope for the best.

Just last week, the UKs Institute of Directors, a business lobby group, said the government must not delay in legislating for AI. It criticsed Mr Sunak for adopting a wait-and-see approach, though added that it was broadly supportive of the ideas the government published in a White Paper earlier this year on the principles underlying AI regulation.
The Seward County sheriff's deputy who tried to pull over the car driven by a man who was shot and killed by police on Monday had unsuccessfully chased the same vehicle a week earlier, Sheriff Michael Vance said Wednesday.

The car was registered in Adams County, but officials said they are still trying to determine the identity of the man who was shot. Vance said the man was not carrying identification.

The deputy tried to stop the same vehicle last week on Interstate 80 in Seward County after seeing illegal substances in plain view, Vance said, but discontinued the pursuit at some point.

When the deputy recognized the same car in Seward County on Monday, he again attempted to stop it, ultimately pursuing the vehicle into Lancaster County, where the fatal shooting happened.

There were two deputies on the scene once the car stopped, Vance said. When they approached the driver, they noticed a weapon in the suspect's hand, which is what led to the shooting. Vance did not say what the weapon was, nor would he provide any details about the shooting.

The deputies and Nebraska State Patrol troopers attempted life-saving measures, but the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Nebraska State Patrol is investigating and Vance said he plans to identify the deputies and provide more information when that investigation is complete.

Vance said his office is also conducting an internal investigation.

The pursuit on Monday began around 3:10 p.m. when the deputy tried to stop the driver in Seward County. Instead of stopping, he turned around and drove the wrong way, going east in the westbound lanes, then crossing into the eastbound lanes before eventually stopping, according to a press release the sheriff's office issued on Tuesday.

Both the driver and his female passenger were instructed to step out of the vehicle, the sheriff's office said. Only the passenger got out, and the driver remained in the car.

Deputies took the female passenger into custody and she was booked into the Seward County jail on Monday for two outstanding warrants. Vance declined to name her.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation shut down a stretch of I-80 from Pleasant Dale to west of Lincoln, between mile markers 388 and 392, for approximately four hours on Monday.

As is the case in all fatal Nebraska law enforcement shootings, there will be a grand jury investigation. The grand jury will be held in Lancaster County, where the shooting occurred.

Review of police shootings in Lincoln since 2013 1. Douglas DaMoude, May 30, 2014 2. Tyson Hubbard, March 5, 2015 3. Tareik Artis, Sept. 22, 2015 4. Zachary Grigsby, Nov. 29, 2015 5. Germichael Kennedy, June 26, 2016 6. Thomas Sailors, Jan. 5, 2018 7. Christopher Brennauer, Dec. 29, 2018 8. Joseph Francis Cimino, Oct. 8, 2019 9. Hailey Stainbrook and Christian Alexander, Feb. 20, 2021 10. German Pedraza, Nov. 24, 2021 11. Chace Abney, May 1, 2023
Census: Number of Catholics in Ireland falls 10pc as over 700,000 say they have no religion

The number of people in Ireland who identify as Catholic dropped by ten percentage points, according to newly released Census data.

According to the Central Statistics Office, more than 14pc of the population now identify as having no religion.

The figures are included in the latest release from Census 2022, which was carried out in April last year.

This morning the CSO published its fifth set of results from the population wide survey.

It said that the percentage of the population who identified as Roman Catholic fell from 79pc in the 2016 census to 69pc in the most recent Census. The number of people with no religion increased by 284,269 to a total of 736,210, which the CSO said was more than 14pc of the total population.

People aged between 25 and 29 were the least likely to be Catholic, with 53pc of this age group identifying what was once the dominant religion of the country. Over a quarter of that same age group identified also identified as having no religion, which was the highest proportion among any age group.

The CSO said that religious identity varied by citizenship, with 70pc of Polish citizens being Roman Catholic and more than 41pc of UK citizens having no religion. According to Census 2022, almost half of Indian citizens were Hindu and nearly 66pc of Romanians were Orthodox.

The latest publication from the CSO also gives new insights into both citizenship and immigration into Ireland in the year before the national survey.

Non-Irish citizens account for 12pc of the population

In April 2022, there were 631,785 non-Irish citizens living in Ireland, accounting for 12pc of the usually resident and present population. This was an increase from 11pc of the population in Census 2016, Brendan Murphy, Statistician in the Census Division, said.

Of the 89,512 people who immigrated to Ireland the year leading up to the 2022 census, more than 22,000 were Irish citizens. The countries that most Irish citizens returned home from were the UK, Australia, and the USA. India, Brazil, and Spain were the top three countries of origin for non-Irish citizens coming to live in the State in the year to Census 2022.

Immigrants were more likely to rent than own their home, with 80pc of households headed by a non-Irish citizen who came to Ireland in the year before the census renting their home from a private landlord.

Census 2022 was the first time that Roma, Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi, and Arab were added as categories to the ethnic group or background question. As a result, the latest publication has found that 94,434 people living in Ireland identified as Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi, 20,115 identified as Arab, and 16,059 as Roma. Between the last census in 2016 and the 2022 census, there was a 17pc increase in the number of people who identified as Black or Black Irish  African. There was also a 28pc growth in the number of people who identified as Black or Black Irish  any other Black background.

The fifth release from Census 2022 published details of the number of Irish Travellers in the country. It showed that there were 32,949 Irish Travellers counted in the Census, up 6pc from 30,987 in Census 2016.

The average age of Travellers was found to be 27 years, lower than the average age of 39 years in the rest of the population. Over a third of the population of Irish Travellers are children under the age of 15.

The CSO said that over a quarter of all Irish Travellers have reported experiencing at least one long-lasting condition or difficulty.
A retired business banking manager for National Irish Bank has told the trial of a former solicitor accused of the theft of over 27 million from several financial institutions that the accused man applied for a mortgage of 1.38 million to purchase four apartments in early 2006.
Jozef Puska put his finger to his lips indicating how he told Ashling Murphy to be quiet as he told gardai he was the murderer

Alleged admissions were made in hospital when accused was being treated

Ashling Murphy

Catherine Fegan Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 06:30

Jozef Puska was lying on the hospital bed, crying as he spoke through the interpreter on the end of the phone. Two gardai from Tullamore, Sergeant Pamela Nugent and Detective Sergeant Brian Jennings, were in the room with him, watching and listening as the conversation, in Slovakian and then translated to English, took place.
Death rates for one to 14-year-olds have declined by 50% since 2007. Photo: Getty

Child deaths due to homicide are the second-leading cause of injury-related mortality among youngsters aged one to 14 years of age, a new audit reveals.

Deaths due to homicide or filicide accounted for 17.8pc of all injury-related deaths during 2019 and 2021, compared with 6.6pc between 2007 and 2018.

The vast majority of these deaths occurred in the childs own home and were committed by a family member or someone known to the child.

The National Paediatric Mortality Register (NPMR) report from the National Office of Clinical Audit (NOCA) includes data on 892 child deaths from all causes. The victims were all under 19 years of age and the deaths were registered between 2019 and 2021.

But the real number of child deaths is unknown and the NPMR calls for a centralised database for accurate analysis.

Professor Michael Barrett, chair of the NPMR, said: Accurate data on child deaths in Ireland is a beacon of hope for families, a testament to the lives lost and a roadmap to a safer future.

While many deaths may be preventable, understanding the complex landscape of child mortality, including trauma, congenital disorders and cancers, allows us to strive for better care and support for those who need it most.

There is currently very little accurate data available on the circumstances and reasons for mortality in children, on how many children die in any one year, on where they die or from what causes.

The report found that the overall infant mortality rate from 2019-2021 was 3.1 in every 1,000 live births, which is close to the European Union (EU) average of 3.4 in every 1,000 live births.

Forty-six per cent of deaths occurred during the neonatal period, where an infant was aged less than 28 days.

The biggest decline in infant mortality was seen among infants in the post-neonatal age group aged 29 days to one year old. This is due largely to a reduction in the number of deaths from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Death rates for children aged one to 14 years and young people aged 15 to 18 years have declined by 50pc since 2007.

After infancy, the leading cause of childhood death is accident and injury, accounting for one in five deaths in children aged one to 14 years and one in two deaths in young people aged 15 to 18 years.

Twenty-four per cent of injury- related deaths in children aged one to 14 years were due to road traffic collisions.

The report noted that the Irish National Sudden Infant Death Register is one of the great success stories of childcare over the past 30 years.

Epidemiologically determined SIDS risk factors such as infants sleeping prone, maternal cigarette smoking or excessive infant bedding formed the basis for infant care advice that has directly led to a reduction in the number of SIDS deaths in Ireland from 150 to 160 per year in the late eighties to less than 30 per year currently, said the report.

The National SIDS register enabled deaths of children in Ireland to be accurately documented in the first year after birth.
Some customers concerned after paying firm 700 for installation

Receivers said Smartzone was not in a financial position to operate its installation department at the moment. Stock image

Dozens of customers waiting to have electric vehicle home chargers installed by an Irish company have been left in limbo after receivers were appointed to it.

Some people who paid up to 700 for an installation by Cork-based Smartzone fear they will be left out of pocket.

The company previously announced plans to put 25,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging points in homes across Ireland by 2025. It had also partnered with Electric Ireland, which used the company as its recommended home charger installer, and offered customers a 100 discount if they signed up.

However, many people have reported issues with Smartzone, with some waiting months for the installation process to be complete. Others told how engineers failed to turn up on the day for which their appointments had been scheduled.

In a statement, Electric Ireland said that while Smartzone would continue to trade as normal during this time, EV chargers will no longer be installed with immediate effect.

Electric car owner Aidan Jordan

Electric Ireland is working with Smartzone to resolve issues for any customers impacted.

A letter was sent to those affected on behalf of the receivers this week. It said receivership had arisen as a consequence of the insolvency of the company Accuflow Distribution Limited, trading as Smartzone.

The receivers said the company was not in a financial position to operate its EV charger installation department at the moment and therefore not in a position to conduct maintenance service or new installations.

Read more Frustration for electric car owner over months-long wait to install home charging point from Smartzone

Receivers were appointed to the company on October 17. Its understood they are running a consultation period with around 16 employees and looking to try to sell certain parts of the business.

Smartzone is continuing to trade, but in a reduced capacity. It also specialises in smart home solutions and home security.

Earlier this year, it announced a partnership with Danish EV charging platform Monta. The deal enabled Monta and Smartzone to provide homeowners and charge-point operators a way to manage charging schedules, view consumption data and give charging access to friends, family and guests.

Prices for EV chargers started at 700 with Smartzone. Customers could also avail of the EV home charger grant funded by the Government, which provides up to 600 towards the purchase and installation of a charger unit.

Smartzone was contacted for comment.

Recent figures published by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry show that EV sales fell almost 20pc in September when compared to the same period last year.

However, data from the Central Statistics Office showed the number of electric cars licensed increased by 65pc in the first half of this year  rising from 8,309 in the first six months of 2022 to 13,701 in the first half of this year.

The Government extended vehicle registration tax relief for EVs for two more years, to the end of 2025. It applies to EVs with a value of up to 50,000. Earlier this year, the Government reduced the grant available to most electric cars from 5,000 to 3,500.
A Dublin woman who was punched in the eye by her former partner leaving her vision permanently damaged has told a court how her devastating injuries have affected every aspect of her life.

Stephanie Hoey (33) suffered a blow-out fracture to her eye socket when she was attacked by her ex-boyfriend Conor Murphy in her home in Clondalkin two years ago.

Ms Hoey required surgery to take bone from her hip to correct damage to her eye socket and cheekbone and has experienced PTSD and lasting nerve and muscle damage.

In a victim impact statement, which she read aloud before Dublin Circuit Criminal Court on Thursday Ms Hoey said no words could describe how her life has been torn apart by Murphy.

Doctors have said her eyesight will never be the same and will continue to deteriorate, Ms Hoey said, adding that daily issues with her left eye are a painful reminder of her life-changing injuries.

Ms Hoey said she experiences constant flashbacks, nightmares, and panic attacks and that for a long time, she was afraid to leave her home, but also afraid to stay in her home.

She said her daughter had missed out on two years of her childhood and experienced the same trauma as she had because the child was worried about her mother and how she was coping.

Ms Hoey said she has been, at times unable to function and thanked her mother for taking over care for herself and her daughter. She has been my lifeline, Ms Hoey said.

Ms Hoey said she has been battling with her mental health, in particular PTSD, for the last two years and that her only sense of safety came when she was notified of Murphy's arrest. I could finally walk out my front door, she said.

Murphy (23) of Edenmore Avenue, Coolock, Dublin 5, pleaded guilty previously to assault causing serious home in Clondalkin on August 20, 2021. He also admitted to burglary and producing a knife on the same occasion.

Garda Charles McPartland told Olan Callinan, BL, prosecuting, that Ms Hoey and Murphy were partners from 2018 to 2020 and briefly on and off thereafter.

The court heard that Murphy arrived at Ms Hoey's house at 6 a.m. on the day in question and that it was clear he was not sober.

Ms Hoey invited him in and went back to bed until lunchtime to find Murphy still in the house, clearly agitated and punching his hand.

Ms Hoey later told gardai that Murphy became more aggressive, and she tried to de-escalate the situation by asking him to go to the shop for an errand.

Murphy came back to her house at around 5 p.m. and put his foot in the door, forcing his way in.

Ms Hoey told gardai that Murphy attacked her on entry, screaming at her and foaming at the mouth.

He punched her full force into her left eye with a closed fist, and Ms Hoey fell backwards and briefly lost consciousness.

When Ms Hoey came to, Murphy was over her, grabbing her hair and hitting the back of her head off the ground.

Ms Hoey said she managed to kick him off, run upstairs and phone a neighbour, who then called to the door.

Murphy grabbed a cheese knife and stood in between Ms Hoey and her neighbour, but Ms Hoey left the house with her neighbour, and the gardai were called.

Gda McPartland said the neighbour described Murphy as very agitated and acting in a crazed manner.

Ms Hoey was taken to the hospital where she underwent a CT scan, but surgery had to be postponed due to the severe swelling in her left eye.

Ultimately, she had surgery in the Eye and Ear hospital but still suffers from multiple sequelae, including nerve damage, muscle twitching and double vision.

Murphy has five previous convictions from the District Court, including failure to appear, possessing drugs for sale or supply and possessing stolen property.

He also has a conviction from Majorca for resisting an authority.

Gda McPartland agreed with Oisin Clarke, BL, defending, that Murphy was abusing drugs at the time of the offence.

A witness described the accused as spitting from the mouth and out of it on drugs, the court heard.

The court heard that the Director Public Prosecutions puts the case at the higher end of the scale of seriousness for offences of this nature.

Murphy has been in custody since May.

Mr Clarke said he needed time to obtain a prison governor's report and education report on behalf of his client, along with urine analysis.

Judge Orla Crowe adjourned the case to December 20 for mitigation and finalisation
A support group for victims of child sexual abuse has said that despite great progress made in protecting children, including new legislation and the establishment of Tusla, the incidence of child sexual abuse remains stubbornly high.

The reality is the incidence of child sexual abuse is not declining as it should, as we had hoped, Maeve Lewis, chief executive of One in Four said.

The CSO published research in March, which showed that the highest incidence of sexual abuse was among those people aged 18 to 24 at the time of the research a couple of years ago. [It was] much higher than, for example, people in their 50s and 60s, Ms Lewis added.

This is really concerning. It would indicate that not alone is sexual abuse not declining it is perhaps increasing and that's so worrying.

One in Four, a group that supports victims of child sexual abuse said that last year it supported over 750 men and women who had experienced sexual abuse in childhood.

Launching its annual report, One in Four said the growth of online platforms has seen new forms of sexual abuse emerging and has created a criminal industry out of child abuse.

Ms Lewis said they are concerned that child abuse that takes place online is considered less damaging compared to other forms of abuse.

In our view, and this is backed up by all the international research, that there is a criminal industry internationally of producing these images across the globe, Ms Lewis said.

Our concern is that online abuse is sometimes seen as less damaging than contact abuse. The reality is, every one of those images is a crime scene. Every one of those images concerns a real child, Ms Lewis added.

Despite delivering individual and group psychotherapy sessions to 172 clients last year, One in Four said there were 83 people on their waiting list for psychotherapy at the end of 2022, with a wait time of over eight months.

If you consider the courage it takes to pick up that phone to ring One and Four, to say I need help. It's very often the very first time somebody's acknowledged they have been sexually abused.

There is still such shame and stigma attached to that, Ms Lewis said.

One in Four said they have now put in place a waiting list case manager, in order to provide support for those waiting for counselling services.

The group, who also provide support to those victims who decide to go through the justice system, said they supported 563 survivors to engage with the criminal and civil justice systems and child protection services.

They also provided support to 34 survivors through criminal trials, but many say their engagement with the criminal justice system was humiliating, re-traumatising and demeaning.

Ms Lewis said witnesses who are considered vulnerable should not be forced to attend court to give evidence.

It should be routine that victims of any form of sexual violence should be allowed to give evidence remotely, she said.

We've had a series of great ministers for justice and there have been changes, but it is still an incredibly daunting experience for a complainant witness to go forward and give evidence in a trial of sexual offences, Ms Lewis added.

The support group also said 56 men who had caused sexual harm to children attended their prevention programme, which One in Four said is a core project designed to keep children safe.
Hezbollah fighters stand guard on the roof of a building in Beirut to protect supporters during a protest to show solidarity with the Palestinians (Hussein Malla/AP)

Irish troops will not fire on the Israeli Defence Force if it moves into southern Lebanon against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah Army of God, the Taoiseach has said in Brussels.

Asked about the posture of Irish troops in the UNIFIL battalion in the buffer zone where Israels war machine could cross  as happened before in the Grapes of Wrath invasion  Leo Varadkar said the rules of engagement did not permit United Nations troops to engage an invader.
Before renowned ornithologist Paul Johnsgard began writing his many books on birds and natural history, he created beautiful carvings.

Of birds, of course. A full-size bald eagle. Owls, ducks and geese.

Carving was a winter activity or family vacation, son Scott said.

A winter snowstorm that would keep him home from his job at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he taught for 40 years, would provide the perfect opportunity.

Johnsgard died in 2021 at the age of 89. At the time of his death, he was overseeing the editing of his 105th book, The Sandhill Crane State: A Naturalists Guide to Nebraska.

The family is now selling about two dozen of his carvings at a Twist of Fate estate sale this weekend.

Including his very best ones of all in my opinion, Scott Johnsgard said.

Also being sold are illustrations used in his more than 100 books. Although he used many of his own drawings, he often commissioned local artists to paint book covers or color plates.

Along with those will be the books that the illustrations were for, signed copies, Scott Johnsgard said.

For more details, go to estatesales.net and search for country club estate sale. The address for the three-day event won't be released until Friday at noon.

The 70 carvings that Paul Johnsgard produced forced him to think about such things as plumage and coloration. They are detailed down to the individual feather.

Johnsgard carved them in the 1970s and '80s before writing consumed his attention.

A chance meeting sparked his creativity. The biology professor spotted some hand-carved mallard decoys at an estate sale, where he also met local sign painter Ralph Stutheit.

The two decided to begin carving decoys together and in 1970 founded the Central Flyway Decoy Carvers and Collectors Club.

Not all of the collection is being sold. Johnsgards children and other relatives have taken the carvings and illustrations that mean the most to them.

Some of the carvings could draw prices in the thousands. A full-scale flying trumpeter swan recently went for $6,000. Others will be priced in the hundreds of dollars.

Many are museum-quality pieces, Scott Johnsgard said. They need to be treasured by someone who would appreciate the background.

Some of the birds that can be found at the Crane Trust in the fall 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-01.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-02.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-03.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-05.JPEG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-06.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-07.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-08.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-09.JPG (copy) 101423-owh-new-fallbirding-10.JPG (copy)
Finance Minister Michael McGrath said ministers were not ruling out changes. Photo: Collins

It comes as new figures show the number of people arriving in Ireland and applying for temporary protection has risen by 25pc over the last month.

Around 800 refugees originally from Ukraine are now arriving in Ireland every week, compared to just over 600 a week a month ago.

The increase has in part led to efforts by Equality Minister Roderic OGorman to impose a 90-day limit on the state-provided accommodation for Ukrainian refugees after which they would have to source private housing.

However, the Green Party ministers proposal faced considerable backlash from cabinet colleagues and in particular Tanaiste Micheal Martin on Tuesday.

Mr McGrath confirmed yesterday that ministers concerns centre on the strain this could put on the private rental sector.

I think we have to be cognisant of the housing market in Ireland, the fact that there is a shortage of rental accommodation, Mr McGrath said.

If you have a defined cut-off point you need to be able to answer the question as to where are people likely to find accommodation.

We know the reality is that accommodation is in short supply, so its one thing to decide on a policy, but you have to consider what are the consequences and what are the real-life implications for people who are impacted by that policy.

He said the Cabinet didnt make any decision on the issue but that ministers were not ruling out changes over the period ahead.

Details of the Cabinet split emerged on Tuesday with Mr OGorman encountering strong pushback from Mr Martin who was described as agitated as he argued for a more comprehensive proposal that did not push the problem onto Housing Minister Darragh OBrien.

Ministers privately expressed misgivings about Mr OGorman not bringing a memo outlining his proposal.

Mr McGrath said yesterday the issue should be considered in the round and said it should be brought to Cabinet in the normal way with a formal memo to Government, which was not the case.

He said Ireland should be proud of the support it has provided so far and that colleagues were anxious to help Mr OGorman.

We will all be as supportive as we possibly can to try and come up with solutions that strike the right balance between meeting our obligations, being humane to the people that need help, while also recognising that there are constraints and limits to what we can do, he said.

The latest Department of Justice figures show that 2,533 Ukrainian refugees arrived in Ireland seeking temporary protection in the four-week period between the end of August and the end of September.

By contrast, a total of 3,191 people arrived in the four-week period up to last Sunday, with the numbers increasing significantly since the week beginning September 25, when 800 arrived  125 more than the previous week.

The number of weekly arrivals has remained at around or just below 800 people in the three weeks since then.

It comes as the Taoiseach told the Dail that Ireland has a better offering for Ukrainian refugees than many other European countries which has caused onward movement to this country from other states of refuge.

People who have been living safely in other parts of western Europe for a period of time are then coming to Ireland and claiming asylum, he said.

Some of this is connected to Irelands better financial and other protections than in other countries, he said.

We have a better offering in Ireland than would be the case in Northern Ireland, or Britain, or France  or in other countries that are not too far from us.

He said the overall intention was to bring the States package of supports more in line with other western countries.

Mr Varadkar said there was a limit on the States capacity to accommodate and provide for refugees, along with those seeking international protection.

Were very much at that limit now, the Taoiseach said.
Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin shakes hands with Danny McCoy of IBEC. PIC: Mark Condren

Companies are sloganeering about climate change but most "wouldn't know carbon if they fell over it", the head of the country's largest business lobby group has said.

Danny McCoy, head of IBEC, the Irish Business and Employers Confederation, said firms were also under pressure to make "profound statements" about biodiversity while knowing very little about it.

Mr McCoy was speaking to an audience largely drawn from the business community at the Dublin Climate Summit.

He said too much discussion around climate and biodiversity relied on slogans with not enough examination of what businesses actually needed to do.

Just transition is another slogan. The hard yards are actually identifying what needs to be done, he said.

Mr McCoy questioned the language used by UN secretary general Antonio Guterres, who has frequently used dramatic speeches to push for faster climate action.

Increasingly, we get sloganeering, including coming from an august official holder like the secretary general of the United Nations, which tells us were at boiling point, he said.

What does that actually mean? Does it mean its too late for mitigation? These things matter because slogans send signals to people but it doesnt necessarily get them to continue on to the necessary action.

I really think that some of the pronouncements of shock doctrine dont work. People tune out if they think its too late.

In a firm if the CEO keeps going, Were doomed, were doomed, you know what the response will be.

Mr McCoy was in conversation with Dave Callaway, founder of Callaway Climate Insights, a publication aimed at the business and finance market.

You never say that to your shareholders, right? Mr Callaway said.

It's very frustrating to see that kind of negative talk about how were doomed, were boiling and all that stuff.

People just tune out. They want to see something that might give them some opportunities.

They shared a platform with speakers from industry, academia and politics, including Environment Minister Eamon Ryan, who said he could not ignore a slogan that eminent scientists had used in the past day.

The American Institute of Biological Sciences published a shocking state of the climate report which declared: Time is up.

I agree that freezing people with fear wont work, but we do need to recognise what the science is saying at the same time, Mr Ryan said.

He said there were many positive developments, particularly in renewable energy, but efforts needed to accelerate.

We should be careful not to cripple our people in a state of fear but at the same time we should be honest and upfront about the scale of change that is going to be needed.

Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin also addressed the summit and he too stressed the depth of the crisis.

He also added, however, that respectful engagement with sectors, such as farming, where dramatic change was needed, would bring results.

The alternative was to risk encouraging the rise of opposition to climate policy such as was happening in the Netherlands.

He felt that could be avoided by working to get public consensus on the changes needed.

The situation is urgent but not hopeless, he said.
Speed limits are due to be reduced in a bid to save lives. Photo: Collins

People driving on roads earmarked for reduced speed limits may feel they are driving a tractor, a Sinn Fein TD has said.

His comments came as an Independent senator said drivers without insurance, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs, should have their cars confiscated and crushed.

Junior transport minister Jack Chambers came under pressure in the Oireachtas for his plans to bring in lower speed limits by the end of the year.

He wants to cut limits on local and rural roads from 80kmh to 60kmh, while also imposing a 30kmh limit in towns, cities and residential areas.

Sinn Fein TD Martin Kenny told the minister at the Oireachtas Transport Committee hearing that people would not follow laws they believed were ridiculous.

If you have a road going between two towns and the first 5km is relatively straight and a good road and you set that speed at a low limit, people are going to say, What the hells going on here? I feel like Im driving a tractor. Theyre not going to abide by it.

Mr Chambers said a road between two towns could be up to 80kmh, adding that there had been no changes proposed to speed limits on those roads.

Mr Kenny also questioned the ministers proposal for higher penalty points on road-traffic offences committed at weekends.

Im not sure if it is appropriate that we would say a person breaking the law on a Tuesday is somehow less a breaker of the law than if they do it on a Saturday or on a Sunday, he said.

The minister countered by saying there was a high number of collisions, deaths and injuries on bank holiday weekends.

He said Australia had taken a similar approach, and it had saved a huge amount of lives.

Meanwhile, Independent senator Gerard Craughwell proposed harsh penalties for drink-drivers and people without insurance.

If somebody is caught driving over a particular speed, is caught under the influence of drugs or alcohol or uninsured, the vehicle should be taken from them and crushed, he said.

If you crush one or two cars in a village or a town, I can guarantee you people will become an awful lot more compliant with the rules of the road. They do it in some places.

The minister has asked the Transport Committee to waive pre-legislative scrutiny of the new road-safety rules in an effort to have new speeding limits in place by Christmas.
Irish citizens in Lebanon have been advised to leave now while commercial options are available.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it had reviewed travel advice to Lebanon amid the ongoing war in Gaza and has updated the security status to do not travel.

In a statement on last night it said: The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all travel to Lebanon at this time.

The department strongly advises all Irish citizens currently in Lebanon to leave now while commercial options remain available. Owing to the ongoing conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories (oPt), the situation in Lebanon remains highly volatile.

In light of the unpredictability of the situation, events could escalate with very little warning. This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon.

The department said in the event that the political or security situation deteriorates, we are likely to be very limited in the assistance that we can provide.

Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable.

The warning comes as the Taoiseach flies to Brussels today to take part in crucial European Council talks that will seek vital common ground on the Middle East.

Heads of government will be keen to find an agreed position after destabilising rows over European Commission president Ursula von der Leyens alignment with Israel in the immediate wake of the terror attack.

They will also be mindful of Israeli demands for the resignation of UN secretary general Antonio Guterres after he said the Hamas attack did not emerge from a vacuum.

Officially, the agenda will cover Ukraine, economic issues, migrations and external relations in general  but the threat of a regional explosion from an Israel-Hamas war is top of the agenda.

UN warns its humanitarian work in Gaza may soon come to a halt

Leaders will also consider the wider effects of the conflict, including on communities and society in Europe.

Leo Varadkar has expressed solidarity with France, Sweden and Belgium following recent attacks. As a result of those, normal summit security is expected to be stepped up.

The escalating situation is very concerning, the Taoiseach said.

In addition to over 1,400 victims in Israel of the Hamas attack, over 5,000 people are reported to have been killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza, and over one million people displaced.

Israel, like all states, has a right to defend itself. It has suffered a shocking and brutal assault. However, it must act at all times within the parameters of international humanitarian law."

He said that defending itself could not translate to indiscriminate retaliation.

We must always distinguish between Hamas and Palestinian civilians who live in Gaza. The instruction by the Israeli military to civilians in Gaza to move southwards is unworkable and dangerous, he said.

The UN has been unequivocal that this will lead to serious humanitarian consequences.
Micheal Martin says Sinn Fein are anti first time buyers in heated Dail debate

Sinn Fein are anti-first-time buyers and do not have a comprehensive housing plan, Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said.

In robust Dail exchanges, the Fianna Fail leader told Sinn Fein finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty he has nothing but a collection of soundbites and a few pages when it comes to housing policy.

You havent put in the hard work and when it comes to young people in this country, just look at Sinn Fein policies, you dont have anything for first time buyers, he said, before adding: Your policies are anti-first time buyers.

Mr Martin said Sinn Fein opposes the Help to Buy scheme which helped 42,000 first time buyers purchase their first home.

He also said the party are against the First Home equity scheme which helped 2,500 people this year buy houses.

If you had your way, they would not have been able to avail of that scheme, he said.

He said Sinn Fein opposed the Land Development Agency and are serial objectors when it comes to new housing developments.

It's about time that Sinn Fein came forward with substance and not empty rhetoric, he added.

Mr Doherty said the Governments response to his party criticising their housing policy is but, but Sinn Fein.

He said the Government claims the housing crisis is Sinn Feins fault but Fine Gael has been running the country for 12 years and Fianna Fail has supported them for seven.

You can have your head so far in the sand as you want but there are nearly 13,000 people in emergency accommodation, the Sinn Fein deputy leader said.

People have lost hope that they will be getting onto the property ladder because of the policies of your government that are pushing up house prices, he added.

Mr Doherty said rents, house prices and homelessness are all up but somehow its always Sinn Feins fault.

He said Housing Minister Darragh OBrien has missed his social and affordable housing targets every year he has been in the department.

Mr Martin said Mr Doherty was wrong to say targets were not missed and the Sinn Fein TD said he was very excited to hear how he met them.

The Tanaiste did not explain how it was wrong to suggest housing targets were not met.
Public health and nature at risk as half the countrys raw sewage entering waterways, warns EPA

The publics health is at risk and nature is being damaged because more than half the countrys sewage is released into rivers and coastal waters without proper treatment.

Half a billion litres of wastewater that has not been adequately filtered or disinfected is discharged every single day, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has warned.

It says Uisce Eireann is not doing enough, fast enough, to address the problems.

It will take a multi-billion-euro investment to bring all treatment systems up to standard and at least two decades to complete this work, the EPA said.

The deluge of undertreated water comes from the sinks and toilets of homes and businesses, outflows from industry, public drains and storm water overflows.

It is released either directly into waterways where there are no wastewater treatment plants or through overloaded, underperforming plants.

The EPA said the discharges can be contaminated with bacteria and viruses and in many places pose an unacceptable risk to the environment and public health.

Key areas of concern are spelled out in a report published by the agency today.

It said there were 1,080 short-duration environmental incidents at wastewater treatment plants last year, caused mainly by equipment breakdown and maintenance issues, plus 244 ongoing or recurring issues.

It highlights 26 towns and villages that are not connected to any wastewater treatment plant, so that the raw sewage of 54,000 people enters waterways completely untreated.

It said of these areas: The volume of raw sewage discharged daily could fill three Olympic-size swimming pools.

The report also raises serious concerns about the situation in 15 cities and large towns  three more than last year  including Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Their main wastewater treatment plants cannot handle the workload placed on them and need upgrading, expansion or replacement.

Collectively, these account for 55pc of the countrys urban wastewater, but outflows from them are not meeting the environmental and public health standards set down by national and EU regulations.

One plant alone, Ringsend in Dublin, handles 40pc of the countrys sewage and discharges into Dublin Bay. Uisce Eireann has been gradually upgrading and extending the plant for years, missing numerous deadlines for completion, but says it expects the plant to be compliant by the end of this year.

However, that will provide capacity for the needs of only the current population, with limited headroom. Further works will be needed to increase capacity to handle anticipated population growth over the rest of the decade.

Professor Fiona Regan, director of the Water Institute at Dublin City University (DCU), said the slow headway in tackling years of neglect of the network was a cause for concern.

We always seem to be just about catching up with the immediate problem. We arent even planning for the challenges that climate change and extreme weather will bring, she said.

Uisce Eireann are firefighting when they should be future-proofing.

EPA director Tom Ryan acknowledged progress had been made over the past year in reducing by six the number of villages without wastewater infrastructure.

However, he said: Wastewater remains a significant pressure on Irelands waterways and is adversely impacting water quality. The pace at which Uisce Eireann is delivering improvements needs to accelerate to prevent pollution and protect water quality.

The EPA said poor management practices at some plants had caused inadequately treated sewage to discharge into the environment.

Skibbereen and Courtmacsherry were examples highlighted.

This is not acceptable as these plants have sufficient treatment capacity, said Noel Byrne, EPA programme manager.

Another example was in Rosslare Harbour where a pump station tripped last year, causing sewage to flow into a stream. This was not noticed or responded to for two days because the alarm system did not work, the report said.

Uisce Eireann must implement effective maintenance programmes for existing infrastructure and improve its operation and management of treatment plants to prevent such failures, Mr Byrne said.

Uisce Eireann said it was making huge strides in addressing the issues, spending 450m on improvements last year  the highest in any year to date.

Brian Sheenan, the utilitys head of infrastructure delivery, said: It will also be necessary to address existing issues in our planning and approvals system so that large-scale critical infrastructure can progress within a reasonable timeframe.

Dr Regan said there should be a review of how water services were currently led in the country and that they should have a dedicated government department.
The Taoiseach has denied that he blindsided Micheal Martin over a Ukrainian refugees proposal brought to Cabinet this week.

Leo Varadkar denied reports today suggesting that he knew in advance that Roderic OGorman was to bring a limiting proposal for Ukrainian refugees, restricting supports to 90 days.

No, that's not the case, the Taoiseach said as he arrived for an EU summit in Brussels. And in fairness I think the Tanaiste has said that's not the case.

But he admitted there was a row between the partners in Government, even as he claimed it was being blown out of proportion.

This is a row that is being exaggerated, he said.

Mr OGorman has had proposals for quite some time, and they've been discussed at leaders level and at Cabinet subcommittee level as well.

And he asked for permission to raise something at the (Cabinet) meeting, which I gave him - and that's not an unusual thing at all.

It was never a case that decision was going to be made at that meeting.

Asked if the social welfare rates refugees were being looked at, because Irish amounts are far more generous than other European countries, Mr Varadkar said there was no proposal yet on the table.

But he confirmed: That's something that Minister (Heather) Humphreys is examining.

Varadkar downplays claims of Cabinet row over revised Ukrainian refugee plans

We've welcomed nearly 100,000 Ukrainians to Ireland. Im proud that we've done that as a country, and provided accommodation, food, shelter, health care, education, jobs and income.

But it also makes sense that we align what we offer in Ireland with what other Western European countries are offering, because of the issue of secondary movements. And that's what we're looking at, at the moment.

He added: We are a country that is full of compassion, but we have limited capacity unfortunately, particularly when it comes to accommodation and that's the context to what's being examined at the moment.

But there's no decision made. It is not going to be a case of just working out whatever the EU average is, because we have a higher cost of living, for example, than other countries.

Other countries pay welfare rates differently to refugees, depending on whether or not they're also provided with accommodation.

In Ireland we provide accommodation for those who come to Ireland from Ukraine, and we also provide social welfare. That doesn't happen for Irish people in general and wouldn't be wouldn't be the norm in other European countries.

On reports that Finance Minister Michael McGrath had suggested the displacement of Ukrainians from paid-for accommodation could distort the rental market in Ireland, Mr Varadkar said: There's no case of anyone being forced. That's not going to happen.

It is the case already that a lot of people who come to Ireland from Ukraine provide their own accommodation. A lot of them are working, and some avail of rent supplement.

Having an extra 100,000 persons in your country is always going to have an impact on housing, healthcare, education. That's just a statement of the obvious.

But of course any change we make has to take into account the impact that it might have as regards our schools, our health care and everything else.

So that work is really still ongoing. It can't just be about accommodation. We have to look at the whole thing and arrange the situation.
The momentum created by the visit of a US trade delegation to Northern Ireland should be the spur to restore the Stormont powersharing institutions, Sinn Fein vice president Michelle ONeill has said. Following a meeting with the US business leaders in Belfast, Ms ONeill said she was determined that the Assembly should come back as a matter of urgency. The delegation of business leaders, led by US special envoy Joe Kennedy, is carrying out engagements over several days across Northern Ireland. US President Joe Biden promised the delegation when he visited Northern Ireland earlier this year. Political leaders met the business leaders in Belfast on Thursday. Ms ONeill said it was vital to build on the momentum created by the trade visit.
Gov. Doug Burgum has directed all government agencies to fly the U.S. and North Dakota flags at half-staff until sunset Monday as a mark of respect for the victims of the mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine.

Burgum also encourages North Dakotans to lower flags at their homes and businesses. His directive is in accordance with a proclamation issued by President Joe Biden.

A gunman killed 18 people at a bowling alley and a restaurant in Lewiston on Wednesday before fleeing, according to The Associated Press.
Being the parent of a child with additional needs is a lonely place  but if you dont shout for them, nobody else will

As father to two autistic boys, John Joe McGinley is a passionate activist for child mental health services  but only because families like his have to fight every step of the way

John Joe and Eileen McGinley with three of their four children (from left) Joseph (10), Ronan (10) and James (16) at their home in Co Donegal. Photo: Joe Dunne

Eleanor Flegg Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 03:30

We claim to be one of the richest countries in Europe but the most vulnerable people in our society are not getting the support they require. Thats whats on John Joe McGinleys mind and the vulnerable people closest to his heart are his two autistic sons.
US airline JetBlue will fly from Dublin to New York and Boston next summer. What will that mean for passengers?

US airline JetBlue is making some big promises for its new transatlantic routes, set to take off between Dublin Airport, New York and Boston next year.

While more choice and competition will be welcomed by consumers, however, it remains to be seen how much difference an extra 160 seats a day to each of these US airports will actually make, especially in a climate of rising airfares.

Heres a look at transatlantic's newest take-off.

What has JetBlue announced?

JetBlue will fly daily between Dublin Airport and New Yorks JFK, and between Dublin and Bostons Logan International, from March 13 and 14 of next year.

Its Dublin to JFK flights will depart at 11.45am (arriving 3.25pm), with the return legs leaving New York at 9.30pm and arriving the following morning at 8.15am.

Boston flights will depart Dublin at 11.30am and Boston at 10.30pm.

The flights will be seasonal, running through the 2024 summer season to September 30.

JetBlue is coming to Dublin Airport

How much will it cost?

A limited sale sees fares between Dublin and New York and Boston starting from 399 in economy and 1,499 in business, JetBlue says.

The sale has its T&Cs, however  requiring round-trip purchases and Saturday night stays, for example.

And they may not be easy to find - a scan of fares available next March, April and May on Jetblue.com throws up lead-in prices of $226/214 from Dublin to New York, for example, and $195/184 for the return journey.

This isnt a return to the days of 69 flights to the US, in other words.

How does JetBlue differ from other airlines?

Customer-focused, low-fare travel for leisure and business travellers"  thats the JetBlue model, and it's an angle that has proved popular in the US.

The new transatlantic flights from Dublin Airport will be operated with Airbus A321neo aircraft - the longer-range narrowbody planes also used by Aer Lingus on some of its US routes.

These dont have a middle galley area with extra loos, and the single aisle for boarding, disembarking and service means moving around is not as easy as it is in wider, twin-aisle aircraft. The planes can be more fuel-efficient and quieter than larger alternatives, however.

JetBlues Dublin services will have 144 Core (economy class) and 16 Mint (business class) seats.

Core customers can look forward to "a boutique-style experience, it says, with meals from NYC-based restaurant DIG included in the fares.

TV screens are 10.1, and it says its Wi-Fi is fast, free and unlimited. Bags are included in the fares.

JetBlue's Mint cabin

Mint, its business class experience, features fully lie-flat private suites with a sliding door. It promises restaurant-style meals with dishes from New York restaurants Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records restaurants and a custom playlist with main meals.

Its like dining in NYCs SoHo while being so high in the sky, it chimes.

Mint seats do get good reviews from frequent flyers, and come with direct aisle access, 17 TVs and good work space.

Tell me more about JetBlue...

JetBlue entered the US market in 1999 as a disruptor, selling economy class-only flights but seeking to carve out a reputation for better-than-expected service.

Today, its the sixth-largest airline in the US, flying to over 100 destinations throughout the Americas as well as Amsterdam, London and Paris. It will also add new routes to Edinburgh in 2024.

The success of our transatlantic service proves customers dont have to choose between low fares and great service," said its CEO, Robin Hayes.

JetBlue's Mint cabin

Will it shake up transatlantic travel?

That remains to be seen.

Disruptor airlines have come and gone from Ireland, as anyone who recalls Norwegians budget flights from Dublin and Cork airports will recall.

Icelands Wow Air also ran cheap, one-stop flights to US airports via Reykjavik before it collapsed in 2019. Icelands Play is now offering similar propositions, with flights from Dublin to New York via Reykjavik starting from around 123 each-way (without bags or meals) in the coming months, for example. Adding bags and seat selection can bump up the fares by over 100 each-way, however.

JetBlue brings more heft than both, and its model is not solely about low fares, so it will certainly be watched with interest. But it does face strong competition from Aer Lingus, which has much more capacity and larger Airbus A330s on the routes, as well as from Delta and United.

Aer Lingus has a sale this week advertising flights from 179 each-way to New York and Boston from March 14 to May 22 of next year  so it has definitely noticed the news. But as any savvy traveller will know, finding those fares on dates that suit your travel plans is another story.

An extra 160 seats a day may not make much of a difference, but if customers buy into the JetBlue model, finding the fares and service good value, larger planes and more capacity may follow.

Then the real transatlantic wars can begin.
As Israel plans a full-on invasion of Gaza, pressure on both sides in this horrific conflict will intensify. Prepare to hear more about the rules of war and international law. But what are these  and what relevance can they have in this all-out war in a very confined space?

Efforts to dial down the horrors of war are not new and sadly have only had limited effect. A major step came in 1864 when Red Cross founder, Henri Dunant, got agreement on the first Geneva Convention which set out rules for treatment of war wounded, prisoners, and medical personnel. These were expanded in the ensuing years  most notably in 1949 after flagrant abuses which surrounded World War II, when the principles were further codified and expanded to protect the sick and wounded, civilians and prisoners of war.
The world is watching Gaza, but sometimes just in glimpses. From this charmed side of the Earth, we have the luxury of being able to look away.

The newspaper articles, which report the savagery in bald language, conjure images that seem unimaginable. But then the TV footage confirms that the true horror of whats happening to people goes far beyond the faculties of anyones imagination. Its the kind of news that you want to retreat from, if youre privileged enough to be able to.
Grotto of the Virgin Mary in the Basilica of the Annunciation in Nazareth, Israel. Photo: Getty

It was a CNN news report last weekend that triggered a particular memory. In interviews with inhabitants of Haifa in northern Israel, I was especially struck by what one young man had to say.

He had friends, he explained, who were serving in the Israeli army; he also knew people living close to the border with Gaza, at the heart of the territory attacked so brutally by Hamas. He was an Israeli citizen and loved his homeland.
Tents used by asylum-seekers at Mount Street in Dublin city centre earlier this year. Photo: Collins

They say you only start to feel pressure when thoughts of failure come to mind, or when you no longer feel in total control of what is happening. Thus, news of frayed tempers at a cabinet meeting to discuss how we can manage the continued arrival of refugees  in the teeth of simultaneous housing and accommodation crises  is no surprise.

According to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, rows in government are much exaggerated.

He stressed there was no shortage of compassion for refugees, but capacity is an issue.

Mr Varadkar said we have taken in 100,000 people fleeing Ukraine and 20,000 others from elsewhere over the past two years.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine displaced millions. Reactions around Europe were hurried and desperate.

Given the numbers arriving and the fact that arrangements were made under emergency conditions, the State has risen to the occasion.

The American economist Milton Friedman once said: Nothing is so permanent as a temporary government programme.

His words are as applicable today as when he said them.

Russian president Vladimir Putin is determined not just to wipe Ukraine off the map, but to create maximum disruption and unrest across Europe, using the flight of frightened people to wage a cynical proxy war.

He is banking on the political tensions we are hearing about to put pressure on Kyiv to make concessions.

As demands grow and our options to meet them diminish, problems will multiply.

Mr Varadkar spoke about some Ukrainians who have already spent months in other European countries and now wish to come here to avail of better offerings.

We must do all we can to help who we can, but resources are limited. People fleeing the savagery of indiscriminate bombardment need sanctuary.

However, we need to address this on an EU-wide basis, with agreed protocols so that all are treated fairly and equally across the bloc.

The aim of those who have come here is ultimately to return home. There have been suggestions that people be given temporary shelter for 90 days, after which they would have to find their own.

Even if resources are finite, limitations must not be placed on our duty to be humane. Turning masses of people fleeing a conflict on to the street can never be countenanced as a solution.

Initially, we did not have the opportunity to prepare. However, the absence of a mid- to long-term plan as the war moves closer to reaching its second full year is no longer excusable.

With an estimated 800 people fleeing the war now coming here each week, telling people to find their own place when there is nowhere else to go will not cut it. Most of us leave our homes in the morning with the confident expectation they will be there when we return. Refugees have no such reassurance.
Synergy Credit Union was awarded the honour at the All-Ireland Credit Union Awards on Saturday

The Synergy Credit Union team celebrate their winning of the innovation award.

A Fermoy-based credit union has been awarded an All-Ireland prize in innovation.

Synergy Credit Union, also with offices in Watergrasshill and Cork City, won the Best Innovation Project award at the All-Ireland Credit Union Awards 2023 in Dublin on Saturday, October 21.

The prize was rewarded to the credit union in recognition of its groundbreaking Personal Lending Automation Platform, which was launched in December 2022.

This unique platform analyses previous lending decisions and performance to determine an approval probability score, one of the four pillars of the loan assessment process, Synergy Credit Union said in a statement.

Members can apply for loans through various channels, including online, via the mobile app, or in-branch. With the addition of open banking consent, loan decisions are now reached in mere minutes, offering our members a swift and efficient lending experience, Synergy CU said.

Since introducing the Personal Lending Automation platform, the Fermoy-based credit union say nearly 50% of loan applications submitted to them have been decided on the same day they are submitted.

Following the announcement of the win, CEO of Synergy Credit Union, Martina Cotter, said:

We are privileged and proud to be part of a fantastic collaboration between 16 forward-thinking and innovative credit unions and are very proud of the achievements of the Personal Lending Automation platform to date.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our members for their continued support and trust in our services. Their loyalty is the fuel that drives our continuous quest for innovation and excellence, ultimately serving our community with the best possible financial solutions.
Roisin Hennerty, Managing Director Global Foods Division Ornua and Ciara Kearney Ornua speaking with Charlie McConalogue TD Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Photo Clare Keogh

Simon Coveney TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine at the new 40 million development at Kerrygold Park, Ornua's flagship butter production facility in Mitchelstown, Co. Cork. Picture Clare Keogh

Its already the second most popular butter brand in the US market and, following the opening of its latest 40 million expansion Kerrygold is well on its way to becoming Irelands first 2 billion food brand.

Thats according to Kerrygold parent company Ornua, which reaffirmed with greater confidence than ever its ambition to exceed two billion euros worth of sales on the back of the latest move.

The new development at the Kerrygold Park flagship butter production plant in Mitchelstown was opened on Wednesday by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney TD, who were joined by Enterprise Ireland Executive Director Jenny Melia, and Ornua Co-operative Chair, Aidan ODriscoll.

Minister McConalogue described the opening as an historic occasion in Irelands long and proud history of butter production and dairy activity in general.

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Todays announcement represents a very significant milestone in the long and successful Kerrygold story, and indeed, the story of Irish dairy, Minister McConalogue said, adding: Irish dairy farming families work tirelessly to produce the world-class milk which makes Kerrygold a world-famous dairy brand.

This strategic investment, supported by Governments Capital Investment Scheme, ensures Kerrygold has the world-leading processing capabilities needed to continue to grow the brand and generate value for the community of Irish dairy farming families which it represents. Id like to extend my congratulations to Ornua, its Member Co-operatives, and the entire team at Kerrygold Park and wish them continued future success.

Kerrygold Park is home to a world leading butter production facility, with cutting-edge processing technology and infrastructure, including two state-of-the-art butter churns and 10 packing lines for a range of over 50 different product formats available across over 60 markets globally, the company explained on Wednesday.

The investment in the facility has seen Kerrygold Parks total cream processing capacity grow significantly, enabling increased production of up to 80,000 tonnes of butter per year, which equates to over 1 million packs per day.

Enterprise Irelands funding support has meanwhile allowed Ornua increase direct employment at the facility by a fifth, bringing 30 new jobs to complement a workforce now of 180.

Roisin Hennerty, Managing Director Global Foods Division Ornua and Ciara Kearney Ornua speaking with Charlie McConalogue TD Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Photo Clare Keogh

Minister Coveney said the move was a proud clarion call globally of Irelands dairy capabilities. The global growth of the Kerrygold brand demonstrates the vitality of Irelands agri-food sector and dairy industry ecosystem. Critically, the brand supports the lives and livelihoods of hard-working Irish farming families throughout rural communities.

Ornuas investment in growing Kerrygold Park, which we are pleased to support through the Capital Investment Scheme, will further strengthen routes to high-value markets for Irish dairy, while directly supporting incomes that form part of our vital rural economy, Minister Coveney said.

It came as a hugely proud moment for all in Ornua Co-operative, its chair Aidan ODriscoll said. For the past 60 years, Kerrygold has proudly brought the unique taste of Irish grass-fed dairy to the world on behalf of Ornuas Member Co-operatives and the 14,000 dairy farming families they represent.

We are collectively proud of the success the brand has achieved internationally, including in major markets such as the U.S. where Kerrygold is the second largest butter brand.  We are also passionate about growing the brands global status further and focused on safeguarding the value it returns to the Irish dairy sector through the premiumisation of Irish dairy. Our strategic development of Kerrygold Park is central to this ambition and will support the next phase of growth for Kerrygold on its journey to become Irelands first 2 billion food brand.

Jenny Melia, Executive Director, Enterprise Ireland said; Enterprise Ireland is committed to supporting companies like Ornua to increase their level of innovation, improve their competitiveness and expand their global footprint, with the ultimate goal of delivering export growth for Ireland.

The opening of Kerrygold Park today reflects highly on the entire Irish dairy sector - pooling together innovation with best-in-class facilities. Enterprise Ireland has supported this development under the 2021 Capital Investment Scheme which aims to build the resilience of the Irish dairy and meat sectors by focusing on increasing the value added and directing new products into global markets. This state-of-the-art facility is certainly doing that and is a lighthouse to other Irish food companies looking to innovate and grow exports.
Emotion will run for a month at the LHQ gallery in Cork

Cork-based artist Ciara Chapman will showcase her work in an upcoming exhibition titled Emotion at the LHQ Gallery.

It is said that the exhibition will look at human emotion, change and growth and is scheduled to run from Thursday, October 26 to Friday, November 24.

Mrs Chapman is an award-winning artist, originally from Carlow, who also suffers from chronic sciatica as a result of an accident she had eight years ago.

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The artist, who specialises in digital illustration and printmaking and mixed media pieces such as embroidered and origami artworks has previously focused her work on looking at the pain suffered by people living with sciatica and other invisible ailments.

Emotion marks a departure from Mrs Chapmans previous work and has a focus on human emotion, change and growth.

Hope (version 3)', 2023, digital illustration by Ciara Chapman.

The new works are presented in printed decals, which adhere to the surface on which they are placed and give Mrs Chapman the ability to work in a larger scale that is beyond her physical body's capabilities.

Discussing her inspiration for the exhibition, Mrs Chapman said:

Initially I had proposed to create a project titled Emotion that would look at various emotions through the use of symbolism and facial expressions. However, over the past year my own life has gone through a transitional phase and so, each piece in this exhibition mirrors my own feelings. From starting over to relocating my home, the string of emotions are profoundperhaps Emotional would have been a more accurate title.

Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Frank OFlynn, says Cork County Council are delighted to present Mrs Chapmans work at its LHQ Gallery, which will appeal to a wide range of audiences.

Inclusivity is an important part of Cork County Council, working with artists and other professionals living with illness or disability is an important opportunity to highlight the challenges experienced by those living with debilitating chronic pain, Cllr OFlynn said.
The North Dakota Legislature saw just a handful of lawmaker absences or virtual votes over the course of this weeks special session, which began just six days after Gov. Doug Burgum called for the session to convene.

Lawmakers from across the state came to Bismarck on short notice to fix a catchall budget bill that the state Supreme Court voided at the end of September.

All 47 members of the state Senate were present for every vote during the session that began Monday. In the 94-member state House, participation changed among votes and some members participated virtually, but the fewest number of votes cast on a bill was 88, with some votes seeing as few as two absences.

The short length of the session helped ease the burden on individual legislators. Legislative leaders were committed to a short session from its inception, indicating early on that they were shooting for a three-day process, the shortest period of time in which a bill can be passed. They hit that target.

As leaders, it's incumbent upon us to set the expectations to set the bar high, said House Majority Leader Mike Lefor, R-Dickinson. And that's what we did.

That commitment also resulted in the introduction of just two other items during the session: A resolution in support of Israel and a tax relief proposal backed by the governor. The interim Legislative Management committee considered nearly 30 items for introduction ahead of the special session but kept the scope narrow.

As a result, the Legislature adjourned just after noon on Wednesday, ahead of a snowstorm thats set to impact much of North Dakota.

Senate Majority Leader David Hogue, R-Minot, said the Senates attendance this week was one of (my) proudest moments. Unlike in a regular session, when lawmakers are in Bismarck for months, this three-day session was unexpected and brief.

When it was 2 a.m. (on April 30), on sine die in the regular session, all 47 were here, Hogue said. And we opened up this special session, and we didn't know that it was going to be sprung on us this soon. Forty-seven senators all here.
The annual Living Well with and Beyond Cancer conference by the Irish Cancer Society is taking place at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Cork City on Saturday, November 18.

This years conference will be hosted by Clinical psychologist, Dr Eddie Murphy and features a wide selection of speakers discussing living well through and beyond a cancer diagnosis.

Topics such as self-care, nutrition and financial guidance will be discussed by experts and attendees will get the chance to meet and mix with others affected by cancer. The free conference offers many opportunities to share stories and experiences.

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Corrinne Hasson, Director of Services with the Irish Cancer Society said: There are now over 200,000 people in Ireland living with and beyond cancer. As the number of survivors continues to grow, we want to be there to tell each and every individual and family impacted by a cancer diagnosis that you are not alone. There is a vibrant and active community here in Ireland willing to share and discuss their personal experience, and from an Irish Cancer Society perspective, were there to offer what supports we can.

She continued: The conference, which runs from 10am through to 4pm, is completely free to attend and we encourage anybody affected by a cancer diagnosis, whether you are a patient and well enough to join us, or you are a survivor, a carer or a loved one of somebody, come along and meet people and make use of the supports and services that are on offer. Supports and services available on the day include everything from our Cancer Nurses being on hand to answer any questions you may have, exercise classes and practical financial guidance.

The conference will take place both in person and online.
An aspiring young Donegal jockey who was caught with 11,000 worth of drugs has escaped a custodial sentence.

Oran Brown (22) of Coolatee, Lifford appeared at Letterkenny Circuit Court on Wednesday for sentencing after being charged with possession of cocaine and possession of cannabis for the purpose of sale and supply.
Sean Foster Francis was just two years old, when he was hit in the head with a bullet as his distraught mother escaped the gunfire between Irish Volunteers and British soldiers on Church Street.

Dublin City Council has today unveiled a commemorative plaque to remember Sean Francis Foster, the first of 40 children killed during Easter Week 1916.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithi de Roiste unveiled the plaque to pay tribute to Sean, at Sean Foster Place, North King Street, Dublin 7.

Sean was just two years old, when he was hit in the head with a bullet as his distraught mother escaped the gunfire between Irish Volunteers and British soldiers on Church Street, near Father Mathew Hall. It is believed he died instantly, forever marking him an innocent casualty of the conflict.

Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithi de Roiste told the Irish Independent: Sean Foster was two years old when he was the first child to die in the 1916 rising, he was in a pram and with his mother. When he was being wheeled along, he got hit by a bullet and died.

Its so important to celebrate our culture and our history. There were 15,000 rebels and 20,000 crown forces, 300 civilians that perished and 40 of them were under 16. Its so important for Irish people to remember this legacy.

I live in the Mansion House now. The foundation of the State is there, its our equivalent of the Independence Hall. The first Dail took place in the Mansion House, the first Cabinet took place around the table in the dining room. For me as Lord Mayor of Dublin, it has a massive impact on me, we live with it every day.

North King Street was a focal point of intense fighting during the 1916 rebellion. 16 civilians lost their lives on this street, with nine of them killed on the site of the new development.

Sean Foster Place, where the commemorative plaque now stands, has undergone a transformation and currently offers 30 new homes.

These residences are part of the Dublin City Council's pilot project for Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) as dictated by its Climate Change Action Plan in the Markets Area of Dublin 7.

Whilst it is important that we honour the heroes of the 1916 Easter Rising, it is also important to ensure the innocent dead are not forgotten.

"Until now, many of them have gone unnamed, their final resting places unmarked, their sacrifice unrecognised. Today we remember and honour Sean Foster, one of the innocent victims, the Lord Mayor added.

At the ceremony Mick Foster, a relative of Sean, said: Its a day of mixed emotions, I knew Ted who was in the pram with Sean very well but its a proud day that Seans name and memory will live on.

"My father was born two months after Sean had passed, my father was named after his first cousin who was shot in the pram. I have a great grandson who was called Ted, who is five years old now, after Ted Foster, Seans brother who was in the pram with him when he was shot.

Dublin City Council Central Area Committee following consultation with the local history group in the area, as well as Sean Fosters relatives, decided that the new social housing development should be named after Sean Foster.

The Central Area Committee also decided that a suitable plaque be erected at the complex to commemorate Sean and to ensure that anyone living in the area or passing the development will be aware of the circumstances surrounding his death and developments name.

The wording on the plaque was agreed upon with the area committee, the local area history group and the relatives of Sean Foster. Through the encouragement of broadcaster Joe Duffy, they were contacted and they wholeheartedly supported the naming of the development Sean Foster Place.
Joe Duffy is best known for presenting Liveline on RTE Radio 1. Photo: Mark Condren

Joe Duffy has asked RTE bosses to place a radio station on OConnell Street because the city needs life.

The Liveline presenter was with Dublin City Council today as they unveiled a Commemorative Plaque to remember Sean Francis Foster, the first of 40 children killed during Easter Week 1916.

Mr Duffy praised Dublin Citys history and how a lot of its history comes from the heart of it.

He revealed that he has requested that the national broadcaster places a radio station on OConnell Street to celebrate 100 years of Irish radio.

The 100th anniversary of the foundation of our Irish Radio is coming up in 18 months time. Ive made one proposal to RTE. We should locate a radio station in OConnell Street in Dublin where we began. The centre of Dublin is where Irish radio began, it was called 2RM.

OConnell Street is where our nation began and thats why the city centre of this great nation is so important. I know it gets a hard time, but I hope people are taking a bigger interest in cherishing the city centre."

Joe explained that Dublins city centre has gotten a bad reputation in recent times, and how he believes that life needs to be brought back into the area.

Lego are opening a second store, theyve one on Grafton Street, I thought theyd open the new one on Henry Street, theyre going to open in Dublin 15, out in Blanch. The city needs life, it needs people.

Where we stand all along this street is historic. Were standing in the footsteps of patriots, children, and of people who died.

There is no other capital city in the world where the birth of a sovereign nation can be located to a single geographic spot and that is all around this area, from the GPO, across to the Union which is now St James Hospital and itll be the site of the best children's hospital in the world, so proud well be, Joe said.

The broadcasters latest comments come as RTE continues to search for a sponsor for Ryan Tubridys former radio show  three months after Center Parcs said it would not be renewing its deal following the secret payments scandal.
Kerry mans West Bank visit puts Palestinian plight in perspective  Their hospitality is so similar to Ireland

As tensions continue to spill over in Gaza, Ardfert native Daithi Fitzgerald talks about his experiences of visiting Palestinian refugee camps earlier this year.

Daithi Fitzgerald with children from a West Bank refugee camp he visited in August.

Stephen Fernane Kerryman Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 11:49

Debating perspectives is one thing, being able to understand them experientially is a different matter entirely. Having travelled to the West Bank last August to visit the Lajee International Solidarity Camp, Ardfert native Daithi Fitzgerald was able to sample some of the difficulties faced by Palestinians residing there.
Deputy Ruairi O Murchu with former Sinn Fein TD Arthur Morgan at the Sinn Fein-organised protest at Market Square Dundalk on Monday evening

As the death toll mounts in the bitter war between Israel and Hamas, two rallies calling for an end to the conflict in Palestine took place in Dundalk at the weekend.

People Before Profit, CATU Louth, the Louth branch of the Connolly Youth Movement and the Irish Republic Socialist Party and Louth for All hosted a pro-Palestinian protest at the Market Square on Sunday afternoon, while Sinn Fein held a rally in the town centre on Monday evening.

Sinn Fein TD Ruairi O Murchu spoke at both rallies and also in Leinster House, where he condemned Hamas and called on the international community to bring about a ceasefire between Israel and Palestine.

He said the people of Gaza are under an unmerciful onslaught and it was a besieged open prison where young people are offered nothing.

Israel has cut off food, water and energy. What it is offering is bombs, starvation and one million people being displaced within Gaza. In other places and at other times, this would be called genocide and ethnic cleansing.

Then we listen to what this Israeli regime says. The emphasis is on damage and not on accuracy, or human animals. What does Benjamin Netanyahu mean by: We will change the Middle East?

Palestinians have dealt with a long history of dispossession, occupation and subjugation by Israel. They deal with annexation and apartheid. There is no roadmap for self-determination.

Promises that may have been made in Oslo have long since fizzled away and they have no hope for what happens in the future.

This is completely the case in Gaza, a besieged open prison where young people are offered nothing. Some say the choice is between a slow death and now a fast death.

He said the world had done very little for the people of Palestine.

The actions of Hamas are to be called out as barbarous, be they the taking of hostages or the brutal killings. They offer nothing relating to Palestinian statehood, he said.

However, let us be absolutely clear: this Israeli regime, which has offered only oppression, or from its point of view security, has led to the biggest failure in Israeli intelligence in the 50 years since the Yom Kippur War. It has absolutely failed to protect the Israeli people.

The only argument that needs to be made to the international community is for an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages and to ensure humanitarian aid is delivered to save the Palestinian people.

There will be a need for international intervention and a roadmap for peace, justice and freedom for the Palestinian people.

We cannot have the green-lighting by Joe Biden or Ursula von der Leyen, backing of Israel as it commits war crimes that need to be called out. That is what we need the Irish Government and the international community to do. That is what we owe the Palestinian people.
Louth lecturer Dr Michelle McKeown, one of the presenters of Heated, the new series looking at climate change, which begins tonight, Thursday October 26 on RTE One, says it gives hope at a time when many people are feeling depressed and powerless by the barrage of reports of floods, storms, wildfires and heatwaves around the globe.

She was delighted when the production company behind the six-part series asked her to go board as it focuses on what people can do about climate change.

"When they told me about the show I thought it was amazing, brilliant, as its looking at the positive side of things and giving hope to people, she says. The issue of climate change is so overwhelming but this is looking at what individuals and communities are doing on the ground to tackle climate change.

"For me, the takeaway message is that we can all do something about climate change, no matter how small. By embracing subtle changes in our everyday lives, we can collectively make a big difference"

"Its something I tell my students all the time, says Michelle who is a lecturer in environmental geography in the Department of Geography at University College Cork (UCC).

Michelle was born in Portlaoise but moved to Dundalk with her family when was was twelve.

"My mother Teresa is from Dundalk and my grandmother had Nanettes bridal shop in Clanbrassil Street. We always visited at the weekends and I lived in Dundalk when I was twelve.

The family lived in Haggardstown and she attended St Furseys NS before going to Dundalk Grammar School and later to St Vincents.

"I went to University College Galway and did an arts degree in geography and political and social science.

From early on, she was interested in climate and for her PhD she looked at temperature change in Ireland over the past ten thousand years in order to provide context to the current climate change crisis.

She has herself witnessed the devastating impact of climate change when living in Fuji and just last week when Cork hit the headlines when a number of towns were badly flooded following the heavy rains brought by Storm Babet.

"What happened in Middleton shows how climate change affects Ireland. People there had never seen such devastating floods and incidents like that are only going to happen more and more.

Ireland, she says is not prepared for extreme weather events which are going to happen more frequently.

"The government needs to be investing more in engineering flood relief work and looking into the future.

Michelle lived on the Fiji islands for three years when she worked in the University of the South Pacific, an experience which brought home the urgency of climate change.

"The islands are really low lying and are at the forefront of climate change. They will be among the first countries that are not going to have land any more and the people living there are going to be the first climate change refugees.

"When I was living there in 2016, tropical cyclone Winston hit Fiji. It was the second biggest tropical system in the world and the damage it caused was incredible.

"It was quite scary to be there and it caused a huge amount of damage.

The storm made landfall at Viti Levu, Fuji on February 20, 2016, killing over 40 people and destroying thousands of homes.

"Some of the people killed were blown off the islands, she recalls. Afterwards there were water borne diseases. People lost their homes and were living in tents.

After three years in Fuji, Michelle moved to New Zeland where she worked for the Manaaki Whenua research organisation, based in Christchurch, South Island.

"One of the things I was looking into was the health of peatlands, and this issues were very similar to the ones we have here.

That work was one of the reasons she moved back to Ireland, she says. I want to bring my understanding of these issues to help protect the Irish peatlands.

She has been working in University College Cork since 2021, initially as an environmental scientist in the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, and now in the universitys geography department.

Her research has seen her working on issues around water quality and climate change and more recently she has got funding for research on pollinators.

Michelle will be bringing her knowledge to this new series on RTE which seeks out inspirational stories of ordinary people making significant differences in their communities.

In the first episode, she visits a peatland restoration project in Offaly, to see how 30 farmers have become part of a new European pilot project spearheading the idea of carbon farming. But is it possible to both

She hopes to be bringing a story from Co Louth in a further episode of the series.

Currently living in the Sundays Well area close to Cork city centre, Michelle is a regular visitor to Dundalk where her mother Patricia still lives. The eldest of the family, she has two brothers Stephen and Andrew and a sister Laura.

Heated airs on RTE One and RTE Player tonight Thrusday October 26 at 8pm
German travel agents  all members of the German Travel Association  with Julie OConnell, Tourism Ireland (right); Amelie Steding, DRV (left); and Eva Costelloe, Failte Ireland (second left), at Mullaghmore Head.

Sixty top German travel agents have been visiting Ireland this week, with one group getting to experience all that Sligo has to offer.

They were here to take part in an important tourism event called Destination Forum, organised by the German Travel Association (DRV  Deutscher ReiseVerband), which is the umbrella association of the German travel industry, with thousands of member companies.

It is supported by Tourism Ireland, Failte Ireland, Aer Lingus and fvw | Travel Talk, a German travel trade magazine. DRVs Destination Forum is an annual workshop event which takes place in a different destination each year.

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Prior to the workshop, the travel agents took part in various fact-finding visits, to experience for themselves the high standard and variety of our tourism offering.

One of the groups visited Sligo. Their itinerary included Mullaghmore Head, a wild food foraging workshop at Neantog organic farm in Cliffoney, a sheepdog demonstration with Atlantic Sheepdogs, Drumcliffe, a guided tour with Taste of Sligo and Strandhill.

They stayed in The Glasshouse Hotel and had dinner on the first evening in Eala Bhan and on the second evening in Montmartre Restaurant.

Nadine Lehmann, Tourism Irelands Manager Germany, said: We are delighted that DRV has chosen to hold its Destination Forum in Ireland this week and Tourism Ireland, together with Failte Ireland, Aer Lingus and fvw, is really pleased to support this important event.

"The aim of the Destination Forum is to grow bookings to the host destination from members of the German Travel Association, helping us to increase German visitor numbers to Ireland in 2024 and beyond.

"With around 60 top German travel agents in attendance this week, its a really fantastic opportunity to showcase whats on offer here  including Sligo.
Coolaney/Mullinabreena and Coolera/Strandhill are set to benefit from funding for walking tracks, it has been announced.

The Minister for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy, Hildegarde Naughton TD, and the President of the GAA (Uachtaran Chumann Luthchleas Gael) Larry McCarthy have today announced additional funding of 800,000 from Healthy Ireland for the GAA Walking Tracks initiative.

It follows an earlier allocation of 815,000, which has enabled 54 GAA, Camogie and LGFA clubs in 26 counties to improve the accessibility of existing community walking track facilities on GAA grounds.

Locally Sligo/Leitrim TD Frank Feighan who initiated the project as Minister in 2022 welcomed the allocations for two Sligo GAA Clubs, Coolaney/Mullaghabreena who will receive 10,000 and Coolera/Strandhill who are allocated 15,000.

Deputy Feighan said; I am delighted to see Sligo benefiting from 25,000 under this scheme which make their facilities available to non-playing members.

"The provision of walking tracks is particularly important in rural areas where safe, well-lit walking routes may be limited.

The funding scheme attracted huge interest, with over 300 clubs submitting applications. Clubs which scored highest in the competitive selection process were awarded funding of between 10,000 and 25,000 in April. An additional 800,000 is now being allocated to several clubs which did not receive funding from the original application process.
A magnificent carving on what is believed to be an ox shoulder bone and dating back more than 100 years has been presented to Enniscorthy Municipal Council on permanent loan by a family from Plymouth in England.

Five members of the Murphy family whose late father, Pat Murphy, was a native of Craheen, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, travelled from Plymouth to make the presentation in the belief the historic carving rightly belongs to the people of Enniscorthy.

Little is known of the carving other than that the historic piece is believed to have been carved by an in-patient at St. Senans Hospital sometime in the early years of the 1920s. Because of a restriction on the use of knives by patients in the hospital at that time, it is believed a nail was used to create the intricate Celtic patterns on the carving and the inscriptive writings which contain the words Beautiful Ireland, oh will you ever be free. Nothing is known of the person who carved the piece but the initials L. Mc.F. may possibly provide a clue as to his or her identity.

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What is known is that the piece was given to the late Edward (Ned) Murphy of Craheen, Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, a Psychiatric Nurse at St. Senans Hospital in the early to middle years of the 20th. Century and he, in turn, gave it to his son, Pat, when emigrating to England in the late 1950s. It has remained as a prize possession of the Murphy family ever since and always occupied pride of place in the family home.

Conscious of the historic significance of the piece and in the belief the carving rightly belongs to the people of Enniscorthy, the late Pat Murphys five children, Mark, Paul, Aidan, John and Ruth, recently took the collective decision to travel to Enniscorthy and to present the carving to the Municipal Authority in the hope of it being displayed publicly for the enjoyment of all. That presentation took place last Thursday amid great excitement in the Council Offices, with Edel Nolan, Staff Officer, gratefully accepting the carving on behalf of the elected members and the people of the town. It is now hoped to have the piece encased in glass and mounted on a wall in the main office where it can be viewed by the general public.

The Murphy family members, though all born in England, have maintained strong links with Enniscorthy and during their most recent trip visited the homestead of their father and grandparents at Craheen, Clonhaston, while also visiting their many first cousins, the Donohoe family of Clondaw, Ferns, and Clonhaston, Enniscorthy, and the Dempsey family of Meelnagh, Oulart, where they stayed for the duration of their trip.

Even though information on the carving and on the person responsible, which measures approximately 15x10, is scarce, any information in helping identify the carver would be greatly appreciated by members of the Murphy family who have lovingly cared for the piece since it came into their possession many, many years ago.


tantric motion? what is it?

ChatGPT

Tantric motion typically refers to a concept within the practice of tantra, an ancient spiritual tradition that originated in India. Tantra is a complex system of beliefs and practices that can be found in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, among other traditions. While it is often associated with various forms of ritual and meditation, it also encompasses elements of yoga, philosophy, and various spiritual techniques.

In the context of tantra, "tantric motion" might refer to the incorporation of specific movements and practices into tantric rituals or exercises. These movements could be part of a meditative practice aimed at channeling and cultivating energy within the body. The idea is often to awaken and balance spiritual and physical energies, leading to a deeper connection with oneself and the universe.

It is important to note that tantra is a highly intricate and diverse spiritual tradition, and the specific meaning of "tantric motion" could vary depending on the context in which it is used. It is often linked with the notion of achieving spiritual growth, self-awareness, and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all things.

[User]

In the film, "Learning to drive" - mentions "Tantric motion" - why?

ChatGPT

In the movie "Learning to Drive," the term "tantric motion" is used metaphorically to describe the art of smooth and seamless driving. The movie, released in 2014, is a romantic comedy-drama that revolves around the unlikely friendship between a Sikh driving instructor named Darwan and a New York-based writer named Wendy.

In one of the scenes, Darwan uses the term "tantric motion" as a way to teach Wendy the importance of maintaining a smooth, continuous motion while driving. The idea behind using this term is to emphasize the significance of being in control and in harmony with the vehicle, similar to the way practitioners of tantra aim to achieve a harmonious flow of energy within themselves.

This reference to "tantric motion" in the movie serves as a metaphor for the broader theme of balance, control, and harmony, both in the context of driving and in life more generally. It highlights the importance of being in sync with one's surroundings and the need to find a balance between control and flow, which can be applied to various aspects of life beyond just the act of driving.

[User]

cast members?

ChatGPT

The film "Learning to Drive" was released in 2014 and featured the following cast members in its main roles:

Patricia Clarkson as Wendy

Ben Kingsley as Darwan

Grace Gummer as Tasha

Jake Weber as Ted

Sarita Choudhury as Jasleen

Avi Nash as Preet

Samantha Bee as Debbie

Matt Salinger as Peter

Daniela Lavender as Wendy's Editor

These actors contributed to the portrayal of the characters and the development of the story in "Learning to Drive." The movie received positive reviews for the performances of the cast and the heartfelt exploration of the themes of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth.

[User]

which character did Wendy date?

ChatGPT

In the film "Learning to Drive," the character Wendy, portrayed by Patricia Clarkson, dates a character named Ted, played by Jake Weber. Ted is depicted as Wendy's romantic interest in the movie, and their relationship is explored as part of Wendy's personal journey throughout the film. Wendy's interactions with Ted contribute to the character development and the exploration of themes such as love, companionship, and personal growth.

[User] !

How did character named Ted, played by Jake Weber do "tantric motion" on the character Wendy, portrayed by Patricia Clarkson,?

This content may violate our content policy. If you believe this to be in error, please submit your feedback  your input will aid our research in this area.

ChatGPT

I apologize for any confusion, but in the movie "Learning to Drive," the character Ted, portrayed by Jake Weber, does not perform or teach "tantric motion" to the character Wendy, played by Patricia Clarkson. The term "tantric motion" is used in the film as a metaphor for smooth and seamless driving, particularly as taught by the character Darwan, played by Ben Kingsley.

The romantic relationship between Wendy and Ted is depicted separately from the concept of "tantric motion." The interactions between the characters Wendy and Ted contribute to the emotional and personal aspects of the story, exploring themes of companionship and personal growth in the context of Wendy's life. There is no instance of Ted teaching Wendy about "tantric motion" in the film.

[User]

what is the neuronic type of psychological about? List of its behaviors?

ChatGPT

It appears that you may be referring to "neuroticism" rather than "neuronic type of psychological." Neuroticism is one of the Big Five personality traits in psychology, which is used to describe the fundamental dimensions of human personality. It refers to a long-term tendency to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, worry, and moodiness.

Individuals who score high on neuroticism may display a variety of behaviors associated with this trait. Some of the common behaviors and characteristics associated with neuroticism include:

Proneness to anxiety: Individuals high in neuroticism may be more likely to experience feelings of anxiety and stress, even in response to everyday situations.

Tendency towards mood swings: They may exhibit mood variability, experiencing frequent shifts in their emotional state.

Emotional instability: People with high levels of neuroticism can be more emotionally reactive and may find it challenging to regulate their emotions effectively.

Pessimism: They might have a tendency to focus on negative aspects of situations and anticipate negative outcomes, leading to a generally pessimistic outlook.

Self-consciousness: High levels of neuroticism can be associated with heightened self-awareness and a tendency to worry excessively about how others perceive them.

Susceptibility to stress: Individuals high in neuroticism may be more vulnerable to stress and may have difficulty coping with challenging situations.

Vulnerability to mood disorders: High levels of neuroticism have been linked to an increased risk of developing mood disorders such as depression and anxiety disorders.

It's important to note that while neuroticism can be associated with certain negative outcomes, it is a normal personality trait that exists on a continuum. Some degree of neuroticism is common and does not necessarily indicate the presence of a psychological disorder. Personality traits like neuroticism can interact with other factors to influence an individual's behavior and experiences.

[User]

entail he Big Five personality traits in psychology

ChatGPT

The Big Five personality traits, also known as the Five-Factor Model (FFM), are a widely studied framework in psychology used to describe human personality. These traits are considered to be the fundamental dimensions of personality and encompass a broad range of individual differences. The Big Five personality traits are:

Openness to Experience: This trait reflects the degree of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and preference for novelty and variety in a person's life. Those high in openness are often imaginative, curious, and open to new experiences, while those low in openness may be more conventional and prefer familiarity.

Conscientiousness: Conscientiousness refers to the level of organization, responsibility, and self-discipline in an individual. Those high in conscientiousness are often diligent, organized, and dependable, while those low in conscientiousness may be more spontaneous and less focused on long-term goals.

Extraversion: Extraversion is characterized by the degree of sociability, assertiveness, and enthusiasm displayed by an individual. Those high in extraversion tend to be outgoing, energetic, and seek social stimulation, while introverts, who score low on this trait, often prefer solitary activities and require less external stimulation.

Agreeableness: Agreeableness reflects the level of kindness, empathy, and cooperation that a person exhibits. Individuals with high agreeableness are typically considerate, compassionate, and cooperative, while those low in agreeableness may be more competitive and less concerned about others' well-being.

Neuroticism: Neuroticism, as previously described, refers to the tendency to experience negative emotions such as anxiety, fear, and moodiness. Individuals high in neuroticism are often more emotionally reactive and prone to experiencing negative affect, whereas those low in neuroticism tend to be more emotionally stable and resilient.

These five dimensions together provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and describing human personality. While everyone possesses each of these traits to some degree, individuals vary in their placement along each of these dimensions, which contributes to the uniqueness and complexity of human personality.

[User]

does quantum entanglement allow me to channel my thoughts to another person?

ChatGPT

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, there is no scientific evidence to support the idea that quantum entanglement can be used for the direct transmission of thoughts or information between individuals. Quantum entanglement is a phenomenon in quantum physics where two or more particles become correlated in such a way that the state of one particle is directly linked to the state of the other, even when they are separated by large distances.

While quantum entanglement has been extensively studied and has implications for various fields, including quantum computing and communication, it does not enable direct communication or the transfer of thoughts between people. The phenomenon is constrained by the laws of quantum mechanics, and its effects are typically observed at the microscopic scale, involving particles such as photons and electrons.

The concept of telepathic communication or the transmission of thoughts between individuals remains a topic of interest and investigation in parapsychology and certain fringe areas of research. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence to support the existence of such phenomena within the scientific community.

It's essential to distinguish between scientific knowledge supported by empirical evidence and speculative claims or ideas that may not have a basis in established scientific principles. While the study of quantum mechanics continues to reveal fascinating insights into the nature of the universe, its applications to telepathic communication or mind-to-mind communication remain a topic of speculation rather than established scientific fact.

[User]

any spirit channeling around the universe?

ChatGPT

There is no scientific evidence to support the existence of spirit channeling or the communication with spirits from beyond the physical realm. While various cultures and belief systems have concepts of spiritual communication or channeling, these phenomena are typically viewed within the framework of religious or spiritual beliefs rather than scientific understanding.

In the field of parapsychology, which explores phenomena that lie outside the scope of conventional scientific understanding, some researchers have investigated claims of spirit communication and related practices. However, the scientific community generally regards these claims with skepticism due to the lack of empirical evidence supporting the existence of spirits or the ability to channel them.

It is essential to approach such topics with critical thinking and to consider the importance of empirical evidence and the scientific method in understanding the natural world. While individuals may hold personal beliefs in spirit channeling or spiritual communication, these beliefs are often based on faith or subjective experiences rather than empirical observations or scientific validation.
In a few weeks, Fiadh Bater (7) from Ballygarrett in Gorey will be chopping off her long locks and donating them to the Rapunzel Foundation and at the same time she will be donating more than 2,000 to Childrens Health Ireland.

Fiadhs parents Matt and Martina set up a GoFundMe page on Monday evening, October 16 with a 300 target to raise money for Childrens Health Ireland. They quickly surpassed that target within 24 hours. Since then, the figures continue to rise as donations have been coming in from family, friends, colleagues and people they havent spoken to in years. The fund is now at 2,823.

Fiadh was inspired to raise money for Crumlin Childrens Hospital following her 18 month old brothers battle with sepsis in September. Tiernan spent six days in Crumlin recovering from a few different infections. The care we had up there was just above and beyond, we owe them his life. Hes flying it now, he visits only every few months now and hes back to being a normal, happy 18 month old, said Matt.

Following her brothers recovery, Fiadh wanted to support both causes, Childrens Health Ireland while also raising awareness for alopecia. I dont know where she gets the empathy from but she came up with this fundraiser herself. Shes a really good kid with a heart of gold, said Matt.

Fiadh spent time with her cousin Poppy during the summer. Poppy is 21 years old and started suffering from alopecia at the age of 16. Poppy has shown so much courage and has embraced alopecia. She wears a wig on occasion but very rarely. My kids spending time with her over the summer was just a lesson in bravery, Fiadh calls her a warrior, said Matt.

Fiadh plans to donate as much of her hair as possible which will be around 14inches and it will all go to the Rapunzel Foundation, a foundation that provides wigs for people with longer term hair loss. Shes going to cut the full amount that she can, because as she has said to me, hair will grow back.

Matt would like to say a big thank you to everyone for their very generous donations and cant believe how generous people have been. Its incredible the generosity but obviously the story has touched a few peoples hearts, said Matt.

If you would like to donate to Fiadhs fund, go to her page at GoFundMe.ie.
Waterford based volunteer wins National Lottery award in Kildare

New Ross man Jamie Blanche has won the National Lottery Hero of the Year Award, for his selfless dedication to saving lives in his adopted area of Waterford City with the marine search and rescue organisation.

From Cross Street, Jamie (53) is the son of Noel and Callie Blanche.

Jamie said his father, who passed away a year ago and to whom he has dedicated the award  instilled a love of boating and fishing in him when he was a child.

Jamie became a member of Waterford Marine Search & Rescue in 2010 when he returned from travelling around the world.

The first thing I got when I came back was a boat and then I joined a club in Waterford who were setting up and organisation to help prevent suicide.

Today Jamie is the longest-standing volunteer within the Waterford Marine Search and Rescue, which is now in its 13th year.

He was nominated for the National Lottery Good Causes award and couldnt believe it when his name was called out at a ceremony hosted by Grainne Seoige and Marty Whelan in Killashee House Hotel in Naas, Co Kildare. Saturday night.

Jamie won 5,000 and was presented with a Hero of the Year certificate at the ceremony.

He is one of 45 volunteers who patrols the quay and bridge area of Waterford City Saturday nights.

We got ourselves trained up on mental health and suicide prevention to provide us with information about how to approach someone who was going to the bridge to end their life by drowning. Over recent years we have saved a lot of lives. The award recognises the amount of time I have put into volunteerism in the community of Waterford and the surrounding area through suicide prevention and the recovery of people from the water.

We pull a lot of people from the water as well. They might have ended up in the water through going in themselves or through unsavoury circumstances. The rescue organisation  which scooped a whopping 10,000 as they were announced overall winner of the community category at the awards picked someone who goes above and beyond in their role in Jamie. I never recognised that myself. I just go in and do my thing. Jamie said it was emotional hearing his name called out.

Looking at my fellow nominees I didnt think I would be picked because the competition is quite fierce. I was cringing a bit when my name was announced and when you end up on stage its like the Oscars with the presenters asking me questions.

Married to Elizabeth, with whom he has three children, Jamie thanked everyone for their support over the years.

Its not just me alone, he said, recalling the positive influence his late father had on his life.

He was a traditional fisherman in New Ross. He brought us all out as kids.

Jamie was tasked to New Ross on Monday when a man was recovered from the Barrow by New Ross River Search & Rescue volunteers, praising them for the great work they do.

Operating 365 days a year 24/7, Waterford Marine Search and Rescue covers a huge search area on land, rivers, lakes, and tributaries in the hope of saving lives and sadly where necessary body recovery to bring a loved one back to their family.

He is an absolute gent and we are so proud of him and his achievements, said Cllr Michael Sheehan. Noel would be so proud of his achievement and carrying on the long line of connection with the River Barrow.

We are all so proud of Jamie - countless lives have been changed for the better as a result of his actions. A more decent man you will never meet and we wish him all the best for the future.
Single lane traffic on Hook Peninsula road till Christmas as Ireland to Wales Interconnector works continue

CONCERN was expressed at the delays motorists living and travelling on the Hook Peninsula will face between now and Christmas as cabling works for the Ireland to Wales Interconnector continue.

Ireland Project Manager for Greenlink, Gary Nolan told councillors at the New Ross Municipal October meeting that works have been slightly delayed on the project at sea due to weather conditions, adding that cable laying has now commenced under the Irish Sea.

He said 18kms of 19.5kms of ducting have been laid on land, adding that 17 of 18 cable jointing bays are installed.

The majority of civil works are done. We are a little bit behind but still on target to get it all done by the March 2024 deadline.

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Mr Nolan said works are continuing at Baginbun, where a hole was drilled through the cliff and under the sand to enable the cables to be laid.

He said commissioning of the interconnector and testing is on schedule for the second half of next year.

Between now and Christmas joint bay works will be ongoing on a 7.5km stretch between Templars Inn and Ramsgrange.

Read more Wexford to Wales 500m interconnector link works begin

Mr Nolan confirmed that there will be some disruption along that road for an extended period of time. We have made sure there are always people who can be contacted, he said, before mentioning some of the funding Greenlink has provided to local causes.

Cllr Michael Whelan enquired about works Greenlink are paying for in Ramsgrange.

He was told by Mr Nolan and area engineer David Murphy that the improvement works to footpaths and lighting will go ahead next year when Safe Routes School works commence to avoid having to do works in the village twice within a short space of time.

Cllr Pat Barden asked how many local people are employed on the project and was told by Mr Nolan that 113 people from the Wexford area have been employed on it.

Cllr Michael Sheehan asked about the road works and was told by Mr Nolan that the company plan to complete these works this year. He said single lane closures will continue, adding that it is challenging as the roads are so narrow.

Three joint bays are open. They are 1km apart from each other so every kilometre there is a stop/go system as people have to travel through a number of joint bay closures. He said to speed up things additional joint crews are arriving from Wales next month as they have completed works there.

Cllr Sheehan said more communication about the works is needed for residents living between Templars Inn and Ramsgrange, and was told that between letter drops, radio notices and print notes people are being informed.
Burglary trial at Wexford courthouse abandoned after defendant was caught videoing members of jury panel on his mobile

That was the conclusion of Judge Cormac Quinn as a burglary prosecution came to a surprise halt at the Circuit Court in Wexford. The defendant in the case attempted to take a video on his phone of the jury as they were sworn in.
At the showing of the Relay for life film and cheque presentation in the ARC Cinema on Wednesday evening were Shauna May and Sandra Walsh

At the showing of the Relay for life film and cheque presentation in the ARC Cinema on Wednesday evening were Declan Geoghean, Liam Murphy and Philip Cullen

At the showing of the Relay for life film and cheque presentation in the ARC Cinema on Wednesday evening were Declan Geoghean, Liam Murphy and Philip Cullen

The Relay for Life Wexford team outside The Arc cinema where their documentary was screened on Wednesday night.

At the showing of the Relay for life film and cheque presentation in the ARC Cinema on Wednesday evening were The Wexford Relay for Life Commitee

The Relay for Life Wexford team at their documentary screening at The Arc Cinema. The team are holding cheques for 310,000, which was the total raised by the 2023 event, and 1 million, the amount raised for the Irish Cancer Society since Relay for Life Wexford began.

Wexford Relay for Life have revealed that their 2023 event, held at the Faythe Harriers Pitch in Pairc Charman, was by far their most successful yet, raising a total of 310,000 for the Irish Cancer Society.

The huge figure brings the total amount raised by the Wexford event to more than 1 million since 2016.

People flocked to The Arc Cinema in Wexford on Wednesday night for the screening of a documentary film on the event, as well as the big reveal of the amount of money raised.

The film, made in association with Love Wexford Town, consisted of participants telling their story, both cancer survivors and those who have lost loved ones, and why Relay for Life means so much to them.

The documentary also featured musical performances from Bride Street Folk Group and Rachel Grace in the beautiful Bride Street Church.

Of course, fondly remembered on the night was Wexford Relay for Life founder Gay Murphy who sadly lost her own battle with cancer in September of 2022. She leaves behind her a fitting legacy as the event which she put in place surpasses 1 million for the Irish Cancer Society.

"This is her legacy, said Melrona ONeill, one of the organisers of this years event. It was Gay who brought Relay for Life to Wexford and its purely down to her that its grown to what it is today. To reach the 1 million raised is a massive milestone and its down to Gay that weve been able to do it.

The Relay for Life Wexford committee wished to extend its heartfelt gratitude to everybody who contributed to the documentary and to the people and businesses of Wexford who have shown unwavering support year after year.

Finally, the entire committee wished to send one final thank-you to Gay whose vision brought the Wexford community together on this incredible journey, creating lasting memories that will remain with us forever.
Cllr Codd feels more consideration needs to be given to installing speed bumps at certain locations around Co Wexford.

Things got a little heated at the October meeting of Wexford County Council as the topic of speed bumps once again raised its head.

The installation of speed bumps seems to have become somewhat of a last resort in this day and age, but Aontu councillor Jim Codd feels that there are many locations across the county that should be considered for this type of infrastructure.

"Were told non-stop that speed bumps are no longer acceptable because of dangers around ambulances and emergency vehicles passing over them, he said. But I had the remarkable experience of driving along Nutley Lane in Dublin recently, which is the road into St Vincents Hospital.

"In the space of 500 yards I hit seven speed ramps. It seems in Donnybrook and these places, they get everything except the potholes. Travelling the likes of the road from Trinity to Taghmon is a very different Ireland.

Roads Director Eamonn Hore replied that if a ramp is suitable and required, it can be done, but theres no point in putting the in everywhere.

Cllr Codd shot back: Surely outside a playground would be a good place for them.

Mr Hore concluded the conversation by stating that each case was judged on its own merits.

"If it warrants a speed ramp, it can get it," he said.
Bray artist Roisin OFarrell has been named the Irish Books Arts and Music (IBAM) Chicago 2023 Visual Artist of the Year, after being nominated by Cork gallery owner, Ken Buckley, and artist Phillip Gray, joining previous big-name winners like Marian Keyes, Liam Neeson and Sharon Shannon.

The prestigious award is to be presented at a Gala Awards Dinner at the Irish American Heritage Centre in Chicago on Saturday, November 18.

Roisin OFarrell has enjoyed a meteoric rise to become one of Ireland's most successful artists, both commercially and artistically, and is known for her vibrant, emotionally resonant works, in jewel-like colours, that capture the essence of home, family, and the human spirit.

Her works have been sought after by leading personalities, including Jeremy Clarkson and Mairead Ronan and the late Jack Leslie.

Her bright, colourful paintings in textured, buttery oils feature light-filled period interiors, with vintage furnishings and china teacups, as well as her charming whimsical gatherings of Wellington boots on door steps and in hallways.

The artists recent work features abstract landscapes that reflect a new and contemporary development in her work, and reflect a new life-stage for the Irish artist, who now spends a large part of the year abroad, hosting transformative art retreats for creative women.

Roisin is hoping the US award platform will extend awareness of her art and teaching work.

I am among a rare breed of Irish artists, managing to make a living doing what I love, creating and teaching art. So, I do count myself fortunate, she said. Being awarded this prize in Chicago is like the icing on the cake, and a super honour when you think of Irelands immense artistic talent.

Award organiser, IBAM Chicago, is a non-profit organisation dedicated to celebrating Irish literature, arts and music, since 2009.

Previous award winners include Liam Neeson, Gabriel Byrne, Jim Sheridan and Stephen Rae for Performing Arts; musicians Sharon Shannon, Maura O'Connell, and Daniel O'Donnell; writers Colum McCann, Marian Keyes and Tim Pat Coogan, and artists Phillip Gray, Jim Fitzpatrick and Robert Ballagh.

Roisin OFarrells family, from Dalkey and Kinsale, is steeped in art. Her mother, Patricia Aherne OFarrell, is also a talented artist. Living in Bray, Roisin says the light and landscape on the east coast fuels her artistic energy.

Ironically, being made redundant in 2009 propelled the talented Irish artist from the world of business into creative pursuits. Posting her works on social media quickly led to gallery representation and a first sell-out solo show in 2010.

Since her discovery, her work has been widely exhibited in established galleries across Ireland and the UK, with sell-out exhibitions in London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam, Barcelona and in the United States.

A mum to two daughters, Roisin is both a passionate artist and teacher, deeply committed to nurturing creativity in others. She teaches and, more recently, hosts inspirational artists retreats in Ireland, the USA and in Malta.
Green Party Deputy Steven Matthews has confirmed protection works and Irish Rail funding for the Murrough in Wicklow town after the popular coastal walk suffered more damage through Storm Babet.

Deputy Matthews visited the Murrough on Monday morning to examine the extent of the damage caused over the weekend, after a new section of pathway was created further from the coastal edge.

He has been liaising with Wicklow County Council and Irish Rail to ensure funding is made available to carry out interim measures to protect the rail line and coastal path.

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I am pleased to confirm that funding is now available through Irish Rail, and the protection works can proceed, said Deputy Matthews. By my estimation, there is a requirement to extend the rock protection by around 300m to prevent further loss at a vulnerable pinch point near the monkey pole. I expect this work to proceed as soon as possible'

This area has been under threat for years from storm surges and erosion and each year we lose a bit more of the route. This is only going to get worse due to climate change. With sea level rise, and the increasing intensity and frequency of storms and weather events, this will create serious flooding and erosion at low lying land along our Wicklow east coast.

The railway is at risk and this is an important piece of strategic transport infrastructure connecting Dublin to Roslare. It also provides a vital commuter link for Wicklow residents. With my DART extension project progressing well, I am also working to ensure a more permanent coastal protection project progresses.

Deputy Matthews also welcomes the progress being made regarding the East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Project (ECRIPP), which is currently going through the early design and options phases, but feels Wicklow County Council could be more pro-active.

Deputy Matthews stated: The ECRIPP will provide protection against storm surges at sites where the railway is vulnerable to flooding or erosion. Irish Rail have always acted quickly to protect the Murrough coastal path but Wicklow County Council will need to step up too and decide what their priorities and objectives are for the coastal route from Wicklow to Greystones.

As long as I represent the people of Wicklow, I will keep working on these projects; the Wicklow DART, the coastal route, the protection of the Murrough and ultimately the larger ECRIPP coastal protection project. The biggest threat we all face is climate change and this weeks flooding and coastal erosion has given us a small taste of what the future holds if we dont act quickly and with urgency to reduce carbon emissions. I know how important and valuable the Murrough is to the people of Wicklow.
Considering a pension top up? The benefits and long-term rewards of a top-up are more than you realise.

Sponsored by Zurich

Having a pension is all about providing enough money to live off for your retirement years. But what happens if you dont provide enough, and you now realise your pension contributions wont deliver the lifestyle you want at retirement?

According to iReach Insights on behalf of Zurich, which examined the attitudes of adults towards paying into a pension, it found that while 34pc of those working have a company pension, 37pc of workers have no pension*.

The iReach research, carried out in August 2023, also found that 65pc of all workers are concerned about having enough money for retirement, with 37pc being very or extremely concerned. There is an even bigger concern in todays world as the research found that 28,257 annually is the average amount expected to lead a normal life after retirement.

Kristen Foran, National Sales Director at Zurich, says, "We're living longer, and retirement will be costly for everyone. An annual income of approximately 13,000 from the State Pension may not suffice, especially in cities like Dublin where the cost of living is very high.

The subject of pensions may seem far-removed for some, especially when they are in their 20s or 30s. But preparing for that future through proper pension management is a must.

The need to top up

According to Kristen Foran, who has 25 years experience at Zurich, a leading pensions, insurance and financial planning group, while many people start private pensions, they often keep their contributions static. So, the need to top up a pension becomes critical.

Topping up essentially means increasing your pension contributions to match your retirement goals better.

"We use this time of the year to talk to people about starting pensions, but also topping up their pensions, says Kristen. You have to revisit your pension on a yearly basis to see if it will hold up your lifestyle when you retire.

Starting a pension as early as possible gives more time for your fund to build up and you also benefit from the compounding of investment returns. Even just a few years can make a difference. For example, starting a pension at 30 instead of 35 could lead to a retirement fund that is over 20pc higher.

But what is a typical, satisfactory retirement income? In general, we will need around two-thirds of our current pre-retirement income to retire comfortably. However, this may not be enough for everyone and is completely dependent on the lifestyle you want when you retire.

For some, retirement comes with lower living expenses as they've already paid off their mortgage and no longer have dependent children at home.

However, for others who joined the property market later in life, a higher average pension income may be necessary to manage ongoing payments. So, they will likely need more in their pension pot, which means making higher pension contributions.

Tax advantages

One of the major advantages of pension contributions is their tax efficiency. In contrast to a standard savings account, contributions to a pension plan qualify for tax relief. This means that each eligible contribution you make will come with a tax benefit.

The amount of tax relief you receive is tied to your income tax bracket, specifically applying at your marginal tax rate.

"You get tax relief, says Kristen. So, if you're paying 40pc tax, and you put 100 into a pension, you get 40 back from the taxman. Pensions also offer the benefit of tax-free growth on the invested funds and the ability to draw a substantial part tax-free upon retirement.

And while starting a pension early is preferable, it's never too late to start or top up your pension. In fact, the older you get, the more you can put in, as there are tax benefits for older people.

For example, someone aged 34 could put 20pc of their annual income into their pension and save tax. But if aged over 50, the limit rises to 30pc. It rises again to 40pc if over 60.

Theres also a commonly overlooked advantage. Kristen explains, You can backdate your contributions to claim tax relief for the previous year. This feature becomes especially valuable as people approach the tax deadline.

And with the due date for the filing of the 2022 Form 11 and the payment of taxes being Wednesday, 15th November 2023, knowing what tax relief you can claim is vital.

Review and reconsider providers

A yearly review of your pension strategy is necessary to ensure it aligns with your evolving financial goals. This way, you can see if you need to top up and even if it might be beneficial to switch providers to get better deals or performance out of your pension.

Kristen says, "There's no reason to stick with something if you're not happy with it; you can certainly move around. There are lots of options out there.

Zurich offers a range of pension products tailored to various needs. One popular product is the PRSA (Personal Retirement Savings Account). Its straightforward, has minimal charges, and provides a full range of options for investment.

If you have a PRSA or a personal pension, you can increase the level of contributions you are making or take out a new arrangement.

But before you switch or top up your pension, Kristen says first seek some advice, "We advocate talking to a financial advisor to help you make your decision. You could also come to Zurich directly, and we can assist you.

There are rules about what you can and can't put into pensions, set out by Revenue or the Pensions Authority. So, talking with an advisor will help you know what the best thing is for you as a person, how much you should put in, and how you should invest that money.

Zurich's online client centre allows customers to track their pension performance 24/7. There is also a list of their financial advisors here.

The financial landscape is constantly changing, and keeping on top of these changes is crucial. The ultimate goal is to ensure that you can live the life you aspire to during retirement.

As Kristen says, A well-planned financial future is a secure one.

Taking a small action today and speaking to Zurich or a financial broker could have a great impact on your future. With a wide range of options, control and flexibility, you can choose a pension plan thats right for you. If youre wondering where to start, you can find a local financial advisor near you with the Zurich Advisor Finder.

*Source: iReach pension survey, August 2023

The information contained herein is based on Zurich Lifes understanding of current Revenue practice as of 1st September 2023 and may change in the future.

This publication has been prepared for general guidance on matters of interest only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon the information contained in this publication without obtaining specific professional advice.

Warning: Past performance is not a reliable guide to future performance.

Warning: This product may be affected by changes in currency exchange rates.

Warning: The value of your investment may go down as well as up.

Warning: If you invest in this product, you may lose some or all of the money you invest.

Zurich Life Assurance plc is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Our beauty writer shares gentle, affordable and accessible skincare products that are suitable for pre-teens but also good for all ages and skin types

If you read this column regularly, you may have gleaned that I spend a lot of time on TikTok. Too much time, really. Sure, some of it can be written off as research, but often its simply getting a glimpse into the lives of people who live completely differently from us that gets me.

Lately, Ive become entrenched in the beauty routines of pre-teens. If you are horrified by the idea that pre-teens have beauty routines, youre not alone. There is definitely something upsetting about watching nine-to-12-year-olds sharing their multi-step routines, which often include products worth hundreds of euro. As they slather their perfect, childlike faces with creams, you cant help but think that weve gone wrong somewhere. Still, its happening, and its not just happening in wealthy American households, either.

Recently, a neighbour asked for advice for skincare products for her 10-year-old daughter. Apparently, she was desperate to have a skincare routine like her classmates, but my neighbour didnt want to give her anything that wasnt age-appropriate, not to mention expensive. She wants Drunk Elephant! my neighbour told me.

Im not surprised. The brightly coloured Drunk Elephant range is all the rage with young beauty creators on TikTok. If we agree, though, that most pre-teens dont actually need a skincare routine, then we can definitely be sure that they dont need very expensive products with active ingredients. There are ways to give them the skin-routine experience theyre craving while keeping things safe.

The brand I immediately recommended to my neighbour was CeraVe. To be honest, CeraVe is probably the brand I recommend most frequently to people with a wide variety of skincare needs. Developed in the US by dermatologists, this brand keeps it simple via effective and inexpensive products that work brilliantly on sensitive skin.

CeraVes Hydrating Facial Cleanser (18, via boots.ie) is gentle and free from unnecessary ingredients, making it ideal for young skin.

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, 18, boots.ie

No skincare routine is complete without a serum, and fortunately CeraVes Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum (22, via millies.ie) has an emphasis on nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides, which will boost hydration and protect the skin barrier without causing any damage.

CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum, 22, millies.ie

Finally, the brands Facial Moisturising Lotion (16, via boots.ie) is packed full of nourishing ingredients as well as being fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, meaning it wont build up on your childs face or cause irritation.

CeraVe Facial Moisturising Lotion, 16, boots.ie

If the white packaging of CeraVes products isnt doing it for your skincare beginner, Byomas colourful range might do the trick. This Korean-made range focuses on the health of the skin barrier and includes many products that work for young skin. Byomas Hydrating Serum (14.60, via cultbeauty.com) contains nourishing ingredients while remaining non-comedogenic and fragrance- and alcohol-free.

Byoma Hydrating Serum, 14.60, cultbeauty.com

Their Moisturizing Gel Cream (15.99, via boots.ie) is also a solid product packed with ceramides and fatty acids that will boost the skin barrier but not do any damage. The Byoma range has a major emphasis on sustainability so lots of products are refillable  theyre also vegan and cruelty-free, which is important to many young people (and adults, of course!).

Byoma Moisturizing Gel Cream, 15.99, via boots.ie

Closer to home, Irish brand Elaves Junior Intensive Cream with Camomile (9.45, via elaveskincare.com) is a rich beginners moisturiser. Suitable for even newborns, this product is approved by paediatricians and ideal for skin prone to eczema and dermatitis.

Elave Junior Intensive Cream with Camomile, 9.45, elaveskincare.com

Lost in translation

Exosomes are teeny-tiny nanoparticles that are a crucial part of cell communication. Essentially, these little guys initiate the regeneration process when they pick up unhealthy cells (science is mad, isnt it?). Unfortunately, we have fewer and fewer exosomes as we get older, so in recent years theyve made their way into skincare via an injectable treatment. Now, though, theyre finding their way into at-home skincare products, so expect to hear a lot more about them in the coming months and years!

Something old...

Lancome Teint Idole Foundation Stick, 35, brownthomas.com

Lancome is a brand that has had loyal devotees for decades now, so its no surprise that they have a complexion product for every need. Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation Stick (35, via brownthomas.com) is a beautiful product that delivers fully customisable coverage. If you want sheer, balancing coverage, simply apply a little of this stick, which is super creamy and melts beautifully into the skin. If you need more coverage, just build layers of product until youre happy. Whether you use a little or a lot, this lasts and rarely needs to be touched up. It is sold as having a matte finish but in my experience still leaves the skin a little glowy, which is great if you want that. If not, a little powder will take care of it. The packaging includes a small brush, but I find stick-foundation products blend beautifully with your fingers thanks to their warmth.

... Something new

Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blur + Smooth Tint Stick, 32, boots.ie

Rihannas Fenty Beauty is a great example of a celebrity beauty brand that has gone far beyond the cachet of its famous owner. Aside from having set the standard for inclusivity within the industry, they consistently deliver products that simply perform. The Eaze Drop Blur + Smooth Tint Stick (32, via boots.ie) is no exception. The stick form of the brands Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint delivers the same second-skin, airbrush finish as the original product, but in handy stick form. It feels light on the skin and delivers light-to-medium coverage that builds well; available in 25 shades.
How do Americans feel about politics? 'Disgust isn't a strong enough word.

By Jack Healy, J. David Goodman, Jenna Russell and Alan Blinder,New York Times

Whitney Smiths phone buzzed with a text from her mother, alerting her to the latest can-you-believe-it mess in Washington: Far right ousted the House speaker. Total chaos now.

Smith, 35, a bookkeeper and registered independent in suburban Phoenix, wanted no part of it. She tries to stay engaged in civic life by voting, volunteering in local campaigns and going to city meetings. But over the past week, the pandemonium of a narrowly averted government shutdown and leadership coup in the Republican-controlled House confirmed many Americans most cynical feelings about the federal government.

It was just like, Oh God, what now? she said.

Griping about politics is a time-honored American pastime  but lately, the countrys political mood has plunged to some of the worst levels on record.

After weathering the tumult of the Trump presidency, a pandemic, the Capitol insurrection, inflation, multiple presidential impeachments and far-right Republicans pervasive lies about fraud in the 2020 election, voters say they feel tired and angry.

In dozens of recent interviews across the country, voters young and old expressed a broad pessimism about the next presidential election that transcends party lines, as well as a teetering faith in political institutions.

The White House and Congress have pumped out billions of dollars to fix and improve the nations roads, ports, pipelines and internet. They have approved hundreds of billions to combat climate change and lower the cost of prescription drugs. President Joe Biden has canceled billions more in student debt. Yet those accomplishments have not fully registered with voters.

A small group of hard-right Republicans drove the country to the brink of a government shutdown, then plunged Congress into chaos when they instigated the vote, that with Democratic support, removed House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif. Democrats are betting that voters will blame Republicans for the trouble. Many voters interviewed this week said they viewed the whole episode as evidence of broad dysfunction in Washington and blamed political leaders for being consumed by workplace drama at the expense of the people they are meant to serve.

They seem so disconnected from us, said Kevin Bass, 57, a bank executive who lives in New Home, a rural West Texas town. He serves on the local school board, and has two children in public school and another in college. He describes himself as conservative who voted for former President Donald Trump both times. I dont really look at either party as benefiting our country, he said.

Voters said that Washington infighting and the Republicans flirtation with debt default and government shutdowns recklessly put peoples paychecks, health care and benefits at risk at a moment when they are preoccupied with how to pay rising health care and grocery bills, or to cope with a fast-warming climate unleashing natural disasters in nearly every corner of the nation.

Disgust isnt a strong enough word, said Bianca Vara, a Democrat and grandmother of five in the Atlanta area who runs a stall at a flea market that crackles with discussions of politics.

She said she wanted leaders in Washington to address gun violence or maybe just meaningfully crack down on the robocalls she gets. Instead, she watched with dismay as the Republican-controlled House was convulsed with an internecine melee.

Its worse than in elementary school, she said, Like a playground, like dodgeball: Youre out! Youre not the speaker anymore! Hit him in the head with a red ball!

Several people said they purposely tune out political news, focusing instead on details such as the price of cream cheese ($6.99) or matters wholly unconnected to politics  the Chicago Bears are 1-4, and Taylor Swift is showing up at Kansas City Chiefs games.

When Smiths mother texted the news of McCarthys ouster as House speaker to the family text message chain, nobody responded. Eventually, Smith replied with a photo of new shelves she had just put up at home.

Whos McCarthy? I dont even know, said Rosemary Watson, 38, a registered independent in Mesa, Arizona, a battleground state that has narrowly elected Democrats over Trump-style Republicans in the past two elections. Ive purposely made that choice for my own health and well-being.

Watson, a member of the Cherokee Nation, voted for Trump in 2020 and said she did not feel politically moved by actions Biden has taken to conserve land sacred to Native Americans or to provide billions of dollars in new tribal funding. She said she would support Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in the 2024 presidential race as a jolt to the two-party system.

Cynthia Taylor, 58, a Republican paralegal in the Houston area whose husband works for a rifle manufacturer, was aghast at the ouster of McCarthy and the latest near-shutdown, calling the brinkmanship a symptom of growing lawlessness in American society.

We seem to be starting to go down the line of, if I dont agree with you, Im going to kick you out, she said. Everybody is out for themselves. Everybody is out for their 15 minutes of fame.

A survey that the Pew Research Center conducted in July found a country united by a discontent with their political leaders that crosses race, age and partisan divides. Some 65% of Americans polled said they felt exhausted when they thought about politics.

Only 16% of American adults said they trusted the federal government, close to the lowest levels in seven decades of polling. Nearly 30% of people said they disliked both the Democratic and Republican parties, a record high. Yet in recent years, Americans have turned out to voted in record numbers  mostly to reelect incumbents.

I never thought Id live in times like this, said Cindy Swasey, a 66-year-old widow in Dover, New Hampshire. Swasey, who voted twice for Trump but thinks of herself as an independent, said she used to like Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., and the infusion of newer, younger energy he had brought to Congress  before he played a central role in the turmoil this week.

She has recently decided to skip watching future presidential debates.

Working-class and middle-class Americans have seen their wages rise lately, but many say the gains pale in comparison with the rising cost of living. Thousands of union workers, from the automotive industry to health care to Hollywood, have voted with their feet by striking for better contracts.

Right now, its just been about getting back to work  figuring out how to put food on my plate and keep a roof over my head and put gas in my car, said McKinley Bundick, a writers assistant for CBS program SEAL Team who was out of work for five months while the Writers Guild of America was on strike.

Several Democratic voters said their revulsion with the state of American politics was rooted in Trumps brand of angry grievance and the election lies that stoked the Jan. 6 rioters. At the same time, several said they were dreading the prospect of another contest between Trump and Biden, and would rather fast-forward through the next presidential cycle and find someone  anyone  new.

This is the best you can give us from both parties? Are you kidding me? said Joseph Albanese, a 49-year-old technology product specialist in Chicago who voted for Biden in 2020 but is considering skipping next years election altogether.

For people living on an entirely different coast from the Capitol  especially younger voters  Washingtons dysfunction can seem like sensational infighting in a distant world.

Its overwhelming; its a lot going on, said Dionna Beamon, 28, who lives in the Watts neighborhood of South Los Angeles. So really, ignorance is bliss.

Beamon, a hairstylist, said she and her friends were more concerned about issues including mental health. Her mother died of a heart attack less than two years ago, and she has grappled with how to address her grief.

I feel like a lot of people are depressed now, she said. Thats a huge topic for my age group. The world hasnt been the same after COVID, and when it started, we were in our early 20s.

Vivian Santos-Smith, 21, a senior at Howard University in Washington, D.C., said her biggest concern was the $10,000 of student debt she would have to start repaying after graduation. Biden canceled $9 billion in student loan debt this week, but his wider efforts to cancel some $400 billion more were scuttled by the Supreme Court.

She wants to be a political scientist, and one of her first challenges is trying to make sense of this moment.

It seems as if House of Cards is reality now, she said. The outlook is just bleak. The New York Times.

Americans' Dismal Views of the Nation's Politics

https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2023/09/19/the-biggest-problems-and-greatest-strengths-of-the-u-s-political-system/?

65% say they always or often feel exhausted when thinking about politics

Pew Research Center September 19, 2023

Americans have long been critical of politicians and skeptical of the federal government. But today, Americans views of politics and elected officials are unrelentingly negative, with little hope of improvement on the horizon.
Rapper says latest mixtape Hokage will show a new side of him

The artist is set to return to Nigeria for the first time since he left at age one to perform his music. Photo: Terna Jogo

The artist is set to return to Nigeria for the first time since he left at age one. Photo: Terna Jogo

Offica moved to Drogheda with his family when he was an infant. Photo: Terna Jogo

In the past three years, Tomas Adedayo Adeyinka, otherwise known as Offica (pronounced with a soft c, like office-a), has become a dominant ambassador of Irelands thriving rap and drill scene.

Drill, originally inspired by a brutalist wave of hip-hop from Chicago, has become a dominant strain of Irish rap in the past decade, most notably in Drogheda. The signature drill sound  characterised by cold, off-kilter 808s and shoulders-up swagger  was eventually exported back to the States by way of Brooklyn rappers, but not before leaving a marked influence on rappers farther afield.

Though its influence is spreading widely, few Irish rappers have broken outside of home. Offica is one of the rare exceptions.

We speak the morning after he returns from an Australian tour  Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney  and also from South by Southwest, the Austin-based festival which celebrates the convergence of tech, film, music, education and culture.

They showed me a lot of love there, he says, through a Zoom screen.

Born in 2000 in the Nigerian city of Lagos, before moving to Drogheda with his family as an infant (I started school here when I was three  I looked real big for a three-year-old, so they just started me), Offica was exposed to a variety of influences from a young age.

I took it off eventually because I wanted people to get a feel for me and connect with my music

Im not fluent in Yoruba, he says, even though his parents speak it at home. But I understand it completely.

The eldest of three (his younger sister Victoria Adeyinka, is TikTok-famous, with 14.6 million followers; more than anyone else in Ireland), his first love was football. He played for Drogheda United FC as a midfielder until injuries halted his progress.

Music came by chance. It was almost by accident, he says. One of my mates played me a beat, and we freestyled to it, almost taking the piss.

One of our uncles had a studio, so we just went one day for the craic. Then, it sounded good, so we made a video. It just started from there.

That track was No Hook, released in late 2018. In it, Officas face is entirely covered with a paisley bandana.

I was still playing football then, so I didnt want my coaches thinking I wasnt serious. But eventually they knew. Like, I remember there was one video where I had my football shorts on  so, that was a bit stupid, he says, laughing.

I took it off eventually because I wanted people to get a feel for me and connect with my music.

As his music has travelled farther, Offica has often acted as a tour guide for anyone new to the universe of Irish rap.

His latest offering, the long-awaited, two-part mixtape Hokage (named for a beloved anime series, Naruto, and meaning king of his village), arrives later this month and draws inspiration from Yoruba mythology, Irish energy, UK rap sonics and, indeed, Japanese anime. 

The Offica fans will see from Hokage, he insists, is a more personal one. Indeed, he speaks truth in it to wavering feelings of anxiety, stress and panic  generally considered taboo topics for many black men.

In Overthinker, which opens with melodic piano and shrill, ticking sound effects (Time is ticking, my head is a clock / Mind of an overthinker / the difference of me and bro is he gets high, I sip my liquor), Offica graduates beyond the confines of drills unsparing style, reaping the personal and commercial rewards of making personal beats.

The artist is set to return to Nigeria for the first time since he left at age one. Photo: Terna Jogo

I feel like theres three sides of me, he says. The drill that most people know; the personal me, that people will see from the tape; and then the afro-fusion bit, like the Irish and Nigerian altogether.

I guess Ill just have to go and see

I just want people to get, like, a deeper feeling for Offica [with it]. Or to better understand me. And just really take in the tape, just because I feel like it gives a bit more detail to me.

Offica seems to be actively grappling with the push and pull of being a modern man, even as he tours. Next month, he returns to Nigeria for the first time since he left, aged one. Im not sure whether its going to be emotional, he says. I guess Ill just have to go and see.

For Offica, and indeed Tomas, 2024 looks bigger still. I want it to be a big year, he says. I want to be touring and doing lots of festivals because Im going to be non-stop releasing music.

In many ways, though, it all centres on home: And maybe get more TikTok followers than my sister.

Hokage by Offica is out tomorrow
A Hindu-Indian ceremony in the morning and an Irish-Catholic one in the evening  what happens when you mix traditions at a wedding

RTEs latest docu-series features couples from different cultures getting married and sharing the joys and challenges that come with the mixing of different traditions and families

Vaidehi Uberoi and Gregory Donworth on their wedding day

Azmia Riaz Thu 26 Oct 2023 at 03:30

The first time our families met in person was in Cork. My family from India arrived in a packed bus and my husbands large Irish family was waiting outside covering the entire street, holding up an Irish and Indian flag that they had pieced together. I remember the neighbours staring on in wonder. That was one of the most special moments of our lives and the moment when we all realised how similar our cultures were, says Vaidehi Uberoi.
Israeli troops and tanks launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield" ahead of a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating air raids.

The raid came after the U.N. warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamas' bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the war earlier this month.
   

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Image Courtesy: Dubai Chambers

Mumbai: Dubai Chambers on Thursday announced the launch of the Dubai Business Forum.

The event creates exciting opportunities for Indian companies to leverage Dubais strategic location and favourable business environment as a launchpad for their expansion plans in the Middle East and beyond, Dubai Chambers said in a press release.

The event will be hosted at Madinat Jumeirah from 12 November 2023 under the theme Shifting Economic Power: Dubai and the Future of Global Trade.

The forum will have the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai

According to Dubai Chambers figures, non-oil bilateral trade between India and the UAE reached a total value of US$ 49.5 billion in 2022, achieving an impressive year-over-year growth of 10.5%.

Commenting on the launch of the forum, Chairman of Dubai Chambers Abdul Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair said: This prestigious event will serve as a catalyst for change by creating an unrivalled platform for networking and dealmaking that will empower business leaders from across the globe. We look forward to hosting insightful sessions that will unlock fresh growth in trade and investments and transform the future of business.

India is the UAEs second-largest trading partner and was the first country globally to enter into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, unlocking a host of benefits for cross-border trade and investments.

According to Dubai Chamber of Commerces data, 22% of total new member registrations during H1 2023 were businesses with Indian owners.

Dubai International Chamber, one of the three chambers operating under the umbrella of Dubai Chambers, provides a comprehensive range of business support services to Indian companies through its representative office in Mumbai, which was launched in 2018 to strengthen bilateral ties and explore new avenues for economic cooperation.

Currently, Indian entrepreneurs account for around a third of Dubais startup community, Dubai Chambers said.

Previously known as the Global Business Forum, the Dubai Business Forum will gather visionary Heads of State, government officials, global business leaders, and major international investors to redefine the rules of success, according to the press release.

The event is set to bring together leaders from sectors including technology, retail, finance, travel and hospitality, real estate, and healthcare to participate in insightful discussions on transforming business for the future, it added.

As part of the event, Dubai Chambers is also unveiling The Deals Hub to unlock global trade and investment opportunities.

The dedicated dealmaking space will host a full spectrum of agreements including major partnerships, joint ventures, mergers and acquisitions, IPOs, large investments and fundraising rounds, government contracts, cross-border trade agreements, and memorandums of understanding, the trade body said.
Photo Courtesy: Joe Biden Instagram page

Washington DC: US President Joe Biden has indicated that one of the motives behind Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7 was the recent announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which aims to connect the entire region through an extensive network of railways, roads, and ports, news agency ANI reported.

"I'm convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can't leave that work behind," Biden was quoted as saying in the ANI report.

The US president made the remarks during a joint press conference with Australian PM Anthony Albanese on Wednesday.

This project was officially launched with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union during the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor is designed to stimulate economic growth by bolstering connectivity and economic integration between Asia, West Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

It comprises two distinct segments: the East corridor linking India to West Asia/Middle East, and the Northern corridor linking West Asia/Middle East to Europe.

This comprehensive plan includes the establishment of a rail line that, once completed, will offer a dependable and cost-efficient cross-border ship-to-rail transit system, complementing existing multi-modal transport routes and enhancing the movement of goods and services from Southeast Asia, through India, to West Asia/Middle East and Europe.

Biden has recently praised this corridor, emphasizing that it will create investment opportunities spanning across two continents.

He stated that this rail-port project is part of an endeavour to construct a more sustainable and interconnected Middle East.

The Israel-Hamas war, which was triggered by a surprise attack by Hams on Israel on October 7, has entered its 20th day.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that his goal against the Hamas war is "saving the nation" and promised that a ground incursion to destroy Hamas in Gaza will start soon, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday.

"We are preparing for a ground incursion. I won't specify when, how, how many. I also won't detail the range of considerations, most of which the public is not aware of. And that's the way it is supposed to be. This is the way so that we protect our soldiers' lives."

In an address to the nation, PM Netanyahu said, "Israel is in the midst of a fight for our existence. The war's two aims are "to eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governance capabilities, and to do everything possible to get our hostages back."
Photo courtesy: Videograb

New Delhi: Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra has been summoned to appear before the Lok Sabha Ethics Committee on October 31 in connection with the "cash for query" row, media reports said.

The committee deemed the accusations against Moitra as "very serious," according to an NDTV report.

During a session that lasted nearly three hours today, the committee listened to both BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai, thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the allegations made against the Trinamool Congress MP, the report said, citing sources.

Chairman of the ethics committee, Vinod Sonkar, informed the press that it has sent letters to the Information Technology Ministry and the Home Ministry, requesting specific details related to the case to facilitate a more comprehensive inquiry.

"We heard the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey ji. Taking note of the seriousness of the allegations, we have decided to summon Mahua Moitra on Tuesday. She should come and present her side of the matter," Sonkar told reporters after the Ethics Committee proceeding ended, according to NDTV.

Dehadrai, whose complaint to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) forms the basis of the entire case, was cross-examined by the ethics committee.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey was allowed the opportunity to explain his accusations, sources said.

In reference to the CBI complaint, Dubey wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, levelling cash-for-query charges against Moitra. The Trinamool MP has called the Supreme Court lawyer her "jilted ex".

Some Opposition members raised queries about Dubey's motives, citing Moitra's earlier demand for scrutiny of his educational qualifications.

Dubey, however, asserted that he has already been cleared of any wrongdoing in this connection, according to sources.

The letter alleged the presentation of "irrefutable evidence" showing businessman Darshan Hiranandani offering bribes to Moitra in exchange for posing certain questions in parliament, purportedly aimed to target the Adani Group.

The ethics committee will complete the examination and give a report to the Lok Sabha Speaker "as early as possible", NDTV reported citing people aware of the developments.

The sources cited the 2005 infamous cash-for-questions scam when the Pawan Bansal committee gave its report in just two weeks in December 2005. At the time, Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) was in power in the centre.

Dehadrai described his interrogation proceedings were "cordial and pleasant" and he supplied answers to all the queries the ethics committee posed, the report said.

Nishikant Dubey said he would be available whenever the ethics committee calls him. "They were normal questions... All I can say is the MPs are concerned. When they call me next I will come. The question is whether the propriety and dignity of parliament will hold. It is a question of the dignity of parliament. The ethics committee is more worried than me," Dubey was quoted as saying by NDTV.

In an affidavit, Darshan Hiranandani accused the TMCs Krishnanagar MP of sharing her MP email, allowing him to help her raise questions in parliament.

But later she gave him her parliament login and password so that he could post the questions directly.

The ethics committee has reached out to the Information Technology Ministry and the Home Ministry in connection to the alleged misuse of the parliament login ID and password by Moitra.

However, Moitra has rubbished the charges and asserted that she is ready for any probe and answer questions from the Lok Sabha ethics committee.

So far, the Trinamool Congress and its INDIA bloc allies have maintained silence on the matter and havent aired their support for Moitra.

The Mamata Banerjee-led party has said it will not remark on the matter.

The party's leader in the Rajya Sabha, Derek O'Brien, has said the party will take appropriate action on the accusations against Moitra following the parliamentary panels submission of the report.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

New Delhi: A court in Qatar handed down death sentences on Thursday to eight former Indian Navy personnel who had been jailed in the country for over a year. Responding to the verdict, the Indian government expressed deep shock and said it is exploring all available legal options.

Media reports said that the Navy veterans were accused of espionage in connection with a submarine program allegedly on behalf of Israel. Qatari authorities also claim to possess electronic evidence related to the case.

The Indian Navy veterans, including highly decorated officers who previously commanded important warships of the Indian Navy, were employed by Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private company that provides training and related services to Qatar's armed forces, said media reports.

Some of them were reportedly engaged in a sensitive project involving Italian technology-based midget submarines with stealth capabilities.

The former Indian Navy officersCaptain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Rageshwere arrested by the Qatar intelligence agency in Doha on August 30, 2022, India Today reported.

They have been in custody since August 2022, and New Delhi, having been granted consular access, has been actively working to secure their release.

The arrested men underwent trial proceedings in March.

Despite multiple attempts, their bail pleas were rejected by Qatari authorities. The death sentences were announced earlier in the day by a Court of First Instance in Qatar.
Photo courtesy: Wallpaper Cave

Srinagar: Five unidentified militants were killed as security forces foiled a major infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil sector of Kupwara district on Thursday.

This is the second infiltration bid that has been foiled in Kashmir in the last four days.

On October 22, two infiltrators were killed in the Uri sector of Baramulla.

The latest infiltration bid was foiled in the Machil sector of Kupwara after joint forces launched an operation following a specific input by J&K police, officials said.

Additional Director General of Police, Kashmir Vijay Kumar said that five terrorists were killed in the encounter.

He said identification of the slain is being ascertained.

Kumar said the search operation was in progress in the area

Earlier in the day, Armys Srinagar-based Chinar Corps in a post on X said an infiltration bid was foiled at Kupwara.

In a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & Intelligence agencies on 26 Oct 23, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the #LoC in #Kupwara sector. Operations in progress, the Army said.

OP KUPWARA



In a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy, @JmuKmrPolice & Intelligence agencies on 26 Oct 23, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the #LoC in #Kupwara sector.



Operations in progress. #Kashmir@adgpi@NorthernComd_IA pic.twitter.com/rHnO4EHMqP  Chinar Corps - Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) October 26, 2023

The bid in Kupwara was foiled, a day after a high-level multi-agency joint security review meeting discussed nuances of security in the region in relation to the onset of the winter season.

J&K Director General of Police, Dilbag Singh said infiltration bids were being carried from across the border to push the militants to this side before the routes would get closed due to snowfall.

(With UNI inputs)
File photo of Mamata Banerjee/IBNS

Kolkata/IBNS: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee Thursday described the ED raids at state minister Jyotipriya Mallick's house as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s "abuse of power to muzzle any opposition to their authoritarian rule".

Addressing the media, Banerjee said, "ED raid at Jyotipriya Mallick's house proves BJP's abuse of power to muzzle any opposition to their authoritarian rule."

"Ever asked your supremo's poster boy (Assam Chief Minister) Himanta Biswa Sarma about the Assam PPE kit scam? " she asked.

"The reality of BJP is Sabka Sath, Sabka Satyanash."

- Smt. @MamataOfficial @BJP4India's deplorable tactic to crush dissent and supress the voices of the media houses is an old habit of these Zamindars.



The futile efforts of the Central Govt. to conceal their heinous deeds pic.twitter.com/CXj31fw3M2  All India Trinamool Congress (@AITCofficial) October 26, 2023

"No wonder corrupt leaders like you join BJP to escape ED raids," Banerjee stated, targeting Himanta Biswa Sarma.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday conducted raids at the flats of West Bengal minister Jyotipriya Mallick at Salt Lake and his former private assistant's houses at Nager Bazar in Dum Dum simultaneously.

The raids began at least in eight places around 6:30 AM following inputs after the arrest of businessman Bakibur Rahaman, who allegedly has a link with the minister. sources added.

The raids are being conducted following the alleged irregularities in ration distributions during the pandemic period when Mallick was the state food supplies minister.

Raids were being conducted simultaneously in Mallick's two flats of Mallick at Salt Lake (Kolkata) area, two other flats belonging to Dey at Vivekananda Road (Nager Bazar in Dum Dum) and another house of Dey at Bhagabati Park, also in Nager Bazar.

The ED, which is probing the money trails of the alleged irregularities in the statutory ration distribution system, has information that the arrested businessman Bakibur Rahaman has huge businesses in Bengal, Mumbai, and even in Dubai worth nearly 100 crores of rupees.

Sources also claimed Bakibur had rapport with Mallick when the latter was the state food supplies minister in the previous Mamata Banerjee government. After the win in the 2021 assembly poll, Mallick was shifted to the Department of Forest Affairs and Non-Conventional and Renewable Energy sources.

Mallick represents the Habra assembly segment in the North 24 Parganas.

The ED had raided the residence of current state food minister Rathin Ghosh, also in North 24 Parganas.
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Srinagar/IBNS/UNI: Director General of J&K Police Dilbag Singh Thursday said Pakistan is trying to push as many militants to this side before the infiltrating routes are closed due to snowfall on the Line of Control (LoC).

The militants who are waiting on launching pads in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (POK) are being pushed to this side from Rajouri, Poonch, Baramulla, and Kupwara by the agencies from across the border," the police chief told media persons in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara district on Thursday.

Our forces have foiled almost all infiltration bids from across the border and about 40 militants who tried to infiltrate to this side got killed so far, he said.

He said by and large their efforts of infiltrating to this side have failed, but few managed to sneak are being killed in encounters elsewhere.

The infiltration bids being made by the Pakistan agencies from across the border to push militants to this side of the border are being curbed and defeated jointly by our Security forces in successful operations, he said.

He said the infiltration bids are being carried out by the agencies from across the border to push the militants to this side before the routes get closed due to snowfall.

Giving details of Thursday's infiltration bid made by the militants in the Machil sector in the Kupwara district, the DGP said the area falls across the Line of Control Kupwara where militant training camps exist.

He said there are about 16 launching pads where militant activities in POK are going on and the terrorists are waiting for an opportunity to infiltrate in the Indian side.

He said the number of militants has remained very less now.

"People are feeling a sigh of relief and living peacefully besides helping the administration in development after militants are cleansed from the soil," he said.
Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Mirzapur (UP)/IBNS/UNI: Four police personnel, including a Station Officer (SO), were suspended on charges of committing laxity after a youth was shot dead in the Jigna area of Mirzapur district here in Uttar Pradesh , a senior police officer said here on Thursday.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Abhinandan said that Vivek alias Vicky Singh (32), a resident of Gaura village, was shot dead at a gambling den in the Babhani area late on Wednesday evening.

"Preliminary investigation revealed that Vicky was killed over an old rivalry," he said.

He said that the deceased was shot five times, once in the temple and four times in the chest.

"A case has been lodged against five persons in this regard. Investigation revealed that when Vicky reached the gambling den someone informed the main accused Abhimanyu Singh, who along with his two aides shot the deceased," he said.

The SP said that four police personnel, including SO Ravikant Mishra, beat Sub-Inspector (SI) Rajendra Ram, constables Sarvesh Kumar and Komal Pal, have been suspended on charges of laxity with immediate effect.

He said that three teams have been constituted to arrest the accused and they will be nabbed soon. Police force has been deployed in the village from the security point of view, he said.
Photo Courtesy/Unsplash

Ulan Bator/IBNS: Seven individuals lost their lives in a fire incident in a building in the Mongolian capital on Thursday morning, according to the National Emergency Management (NEM) Agency.

The incident, which occurred at approximately 3:50 am local time (20:50 GMT Wednesday), was reported to have taken place in the Songinokhakkhan district in the Ulan-Bator region.

The agency is currently conducting an investigation into the source of the fire.

As the cold season approaches, the NEM Agency noted that the number of domestic fires is on the rise as households in the capital's ger districts tend to light up in order to stay warm.

This is due to the fact that over half of the city's population resides in rural districts, which lack access to water, heating, or sanitation.

(With UNI/Xinhua inputs)


Due to the ongoing diplomatic row with India, starting with the Canadian PM Justin Trudeau making public, baseless allegations against India, a whopping 20% of Indian students who had set their sights on Canadian universities for 2023 have chosen to defer their studies.

Another report by the Times Higher Education found that some Indian students are considering transferring to the United Kingdom or Australia due to the diplomatic spat.

In 2022 alone, Indian students injected over $17 billion into Canadas economy. Not just by means of tuition, but through living expenses, cultural exchanges, and other forms of investments. They are, unmistakably, the backbone of the international student community, representing over 40% of all foreign students. Their decline, therefore, is not just a number game  it represents a significant economic and cultural void.

For context, the Canadian education sector employs more than 600,000 individuals and contributes over $100 billion to the economy annually. So when, for instance, an esteemed institution like the University of Toronto registers a loss of over $100 million due to a dip in Indian student enrolment, its a concerning indicator of a trend that could spread across the nation, destabilizing this robust economic engine.

Indian students, as previously mentioned, are a significant financial pillar for Canadian universities. A decline in their enrollment is not simply a decrement in diversity; it equates to millions of dollars in lost tuition fees, not to mention supplementary expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and cultural excursions.

Moreover, the quality of Indian students is unparalleled. The fact that over 70% possess a masters degree or higher is indicative of their commitment to education and excellence. And this excellence doesnt stop at graduation. Indian students have consistently showcased their prowess in innovation and entrepreneurship. They are founders, job creators, and integral members of the workforce, working both for Canadian enterprises and establishing their own, and also generating jobs for Canadian citizens.

The current decline in enrolment is alarming. Moreover, the allure of other nations, such as the UK and Australia, is becoming increasingly potent for Indian students. This potential exodus will not only be an economic setback but will also strip Canadas campuses of the diversity, innovation, and global perspective that students from India bring to the table.

The deferment means Canadian institutions are deprived of some of the brightest minds. Given that a substantial proportion of Indian students possess advanced degrees, their presence in research departments, labs, and classrooms significantly boosts the academic standard and competitiveness of Canadian universities on the global stage.

Beyond the campuses, local communities where these students live, dine, and socialize will feel the economic sting. From landlords who rent out properties to businesses that cater to international students, there will be a tangible decline in income and, possibly, job losses in sectors closely aligned with student needs.

A single years significant deferment might have ripple effects for subsequent years. The students who deferred might influence potential applicants in the future, leading them to opt for perceived safer or more welcoming countries for their studies. Such shifts could reconfigure the traditional pathways of international education, with Canada losing its edge.

It is essential to highlight an apparent irony. In the midst of this diplomatic discord, Canada appears to be inadvertently biting the hand that has been generously feeding it. By allowing, or worse, escalating the rift with India, Canada risks not just immediate economic losses but the long-term vitality and global reputation of its cherished education sector. A prompt resolution is more than just desirable; its imperative for Canadas sustained growth.

(Image and text credit: Khalsavox.com)
Bigg Boss OTT Season 2 winner and popular YouTuber Elvish Yadav recently filed a complaint with Gurugram Police regarding someone trying to extort money from him. Just a day after the Gujarat Police received a tip off nabbed the culprit who is based in Gujarat only.



Elvish/Instagram

How did the Gujarat police manage to nab the culprit in Elvishs extortion case?

Varun Dahiya ACP Crime Branch shared with ANI in Hindi (loosely translated) - We got a notice and complaint from Gurugram police on 25th October that Elvish has received some threatening messages on 17th October where he was demanded of 40 lakhs initially and 1 crore rupees later. We then registered a case through the Gurugram Police.

Twitter

He continued, A team was formed under the direction and orders of our Commissioner of Police, Vikas Arora IPS, and the DCB crime team worked with the relentless help from Gujarat police. After collecting relevant details from them, we shared the case with Gujarat police and successfully arrested a suspect from Gujarat.



Who was the prime culprit in Elvish Yadavs extortion case?

HT

A resident of Gujarat, This 24-year-old Gujarati resident worked as an RTO agent with his father. Named Shakir Makhani, the man was influenced by Elvish Yadavs lavish lifestyle and wanted to earn money. He arranged his numbers from somewhere and sent him threatening messages through WhatsApp.



Why is Elvish Yadav so famous?

Gurugram Police arrests a man from Gujarat in connection with extortion call to Big Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav



Varun Dahiya ACP Crime Branch says, "Gurugram Police with cooperation from Gujarat Police has arrested one Shakir Makrani, a resident of Vadnagar. He was pic.twitter.com/nvEtkjbtRe  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

Hailing from Haryanas Gurugram, Elvish Yadav enjoys massive popularity across social media platforms. He has two YouTube channels with around 14.5 and 4.75 million subscribers respectively. On Instagram, he has around 15.7 million followers and on Twitter over 700k users are following him.

Why did Elvish Yadav want to return his trophy?

Just a month after winning the Bigg Boss OTT 2 trophy and 25 lakhs rupees, Elvish in one of his vlogs shared that he wishes to get rid of the trophy so that he can stay away from negativity. He was heard saying, Kuch nahi chahiye, zindagi kya hi ho rakhi hai bhai.

Also Read: Post Elvish Yadav's BB Win, 7 Incidents Prove People Successfully Made A Wrong Guy Their Idol

Yadav added, All I want is peace, and love-filled life that I had before Bigg Boss. This trophy says 'Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner' and I am that (the winner), on record. But, if you want please take this trophy and the stuff. I have seen so many things I do not want to even mention. I dont want this negativity in life.

For more news and updates from the world of celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.


Kids often exhibit remarkable ingenuity in their pursuit of achieving their desires. Their resourcefulness, sometimes referred to as "jugaad" in various parts of the world, is a testament to their ability to find creative solutions and make things work in their favor.

From crafting imaginative contraptions to devising clever strategies, kids have an uncanny knack for getting what they want.



What was the 7-year-old's mastermind plan?

In China, a clever 7-year-old boy devised a 'jugaad' to avoid doing his homework.



He called the emergency number and falsely accused his father of hurting him. This led the authorities to visit his home in Lishui, Zhejiang province, to investigate the situation.

A viral video captured the boy's dramatic encounter with the police. The child appeared convincingly upset as he claimed his father had hit him. An officer gently tapped the boy's back and asked about the incident, and the child nodded in agreement.

How did his lie come to light?

But upon closer examination, the truth came to light. The boy's story was a clever scheme to skip school because he hadn't finished his homework.

Instead of reprimanding the boy for his inventive way out, the officer showed compassion that touched hearts on social media. He offered a one-on-one tutoring session, saying, "Let uncle first finish correcting the test paper for you, then I'll take you to school."

How did the internet react to the viral video?

The video swiftly captured the attention of mainland Chinese social media, sparking a mix of amusement and contemplation among users.

Some marveled at the boy's cleverness in seeking police intervention without foreseeing the consequences. Meanwhile, many praised the officer's gentle response while also stressing the need to educate children about the seriousness of making false police reports.

Chinese children often grapple with intense academic expectations, hefty homework, frequent exams, and demanding after-school tutoring as a routine part of their lives.

Unsplash

In response to these concerns, the Chinese government has taken steps to alleviate the academic stress on children, including efforts to curb excessive tutoring.



Unsplash

In July 2021, the "double reduction policy" was introduced to ease the academic stress on students and reduce the financial strain on their families.

The South China Morning Post reported that these steps are part of a larger initiative to provide children with a more balanced childhood, free from excessive educational demands.



In a separate incident, a young student in Zhejiang resorted to throwing SOS notes from his bedroom window that read "Help me" as a desperate plea to escape from the demands of his homework.

For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram.


Infosys founder NR Narayana Murthy believes that young people should work 70 hours a week for India to compete with rapidly progressing economies. He shared his thoughts in a podcast called 'The Record' by 3One4 Capital. In this podcast, he discussed nation-building, technology, Infosys, and his views on today's youth.

During a conversation with former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai, Narayana Murthy stated that India's work productivity is relatively low compared to other countries.

Successful IIT Dropouts | Narayan Murthy | Photo: AFP

To compete with nations like China, Murthy suggested that Indian youngsters work extra hours, similar to what Japan and Germany did after World War 2.



What did Narayana Murthy say?

He also pointed out other issues, such as government corruption and bureaucratic delays, and mentioned:

India's work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve our work productivity, unless we reduce corruption in the government at some level, because we have been reading I don't know the truth of it, unless we reduce the delays in our bureaucracy in taking this decision, we will not be able to compete with those countries that have made tremendous progress.

What did he tell youngsters of today?

screenshot

Murthy, 77, directed his appeal to the youth of today. So, therefore, I request that our youngsters say, This is my country. Id like to work 70 hours a week. You know, this is exactly what the Germans and Japanese did after the Second World War they made sure that every German worked extra hours for a certain number of years.



The billionaire founder of Infosys emphasized that since the youth make up most of India's population, they have a crucial role in India's advancement.

He noted that India's culture needs to shift towards discipline, hard work, and determination because, without this change, the government's efforts alone won't be sufficient.

We need to be disciplined and improve our work productivity. I think unless we do that, what can poor government do? And every government is as good as the culture of the people. And our culture has to change to that of highly determined, extremely disciplined, and extremely hard-working people, said Narayana Murthy.

He added, And that transformation has to come to youngsters because youngsters form a significant majority of our population at this point, and they are the ones who can build our country,

How did people react?

Unsplash

Murthy's remarks ignited a spirited debate among social media users, who had varying opinions on his suggestions. Some individuals supported his call for increased work hours, believing it could contribute to India's economic growth and competitiveness.

On the other hand, many expressed concerns about the impact of such extended work hours on work-life balance, health, and overall well-being. Read on:



screenshot

Should be paid for as well similar way  Maskman (@Maskman114433) October 26, 2023

Yes, they should sacrifice their whole life to earn 3.5 lpa so that people like him can sleep on money in multiple crores.  Saurabh Srivastava (@sasri108) October 26, 2023

Chacha, apne employees ko utna he salary dia kro phir  Bharat (@tsecondhorizon) October 26, 2023

If youre working 70 hours a week in IT



- You are inefficient

- You are part of an assembly line thats producing robots  Pakchikpak Raja Babu (@HaramiParindey) October 26, 2023

These people have benefitted a lot from Indian tech laborers. Now, he thinks that most of them are techies. But, the laborer force cannot be scaled that way.  Satya Prakash  (@sa8ypr) October 26, 2023

if ur a billionaire, you dont have to talk non sense. What is the use of money if you cant enjoy it?



40 Hrs a week is good enaf, if you add commuting time of 15-20 hrs a week, ppl are already spending 55-60 hrs..  MarketGhost (@MarketGhost_) October 26, 2023

In 2020, Murthy also suggested that professionals should work extended hours. He recommended that Indians put in 60 hours a week for the following two to three years to help revive the economy after the pandemic.

For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram.


Eight minors, 16 years old, were arrested by police after attacking a high school in the Moschato southwest suburb of Athens with firebombs on Thursday
The Oyo State High Court sitting in Ogbomoso has upturned the appointment of the new Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, citing illegality of the selection process.

Recall that the State Government on the 8th of September, 2023, announced Pastor Ghandi as the new Soun and made him king.

INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that one of the contestants, Kabir Laoye had sued Ghandi, noting that he was not eligible to take Souns position.

READ MORE: BREAKING: Soun Of Ogbomoso Dies At 95

The Oyo state High Court in Ogbomoso at the time had reportedly restrained Governor Seyi Makinde, the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters or anyone else from presenting any instrument of office in any form of ceremony or issuing certificate of installation to Olaoye until the final determination of the mandatory injunction already filed before the court.

The Areago High Chief, Sobalaje Otolorin, however, disclosed that the kingmakers were not aware of a restraining order by any court.

Sobalaje Otolorin led the installation that took place in Abata.

Pastor Ghandi then proceeded into seclusion to commence traditional rites attached to the throne.
Donald Trump, called to testify at his civil fraud trial in New York today, was subsequently fined $10,000 for a further breach of a court order limiting what he can say publicly about the case and the court. Judge Arthur Engoron said that Trump was "not credible" as a witness after he claimed on the stand that his attacks on the judge's law clerk, Allison Greenfield, were not aimed at her.

Greenfield has usually been sitting next to the judge in the courtroom. On Tuesday, Trump was quoted by the Associated Press as saying: "This judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who is very partisan sitting alongside him  perhaps even much more partisan than he is."Trump insisted on the stand that the "very partisan" person he had referred to was Michael Cohen, his former fixer-turned-foe, who has been testifying against him in court this week. When Engoron asked if he was sure, the former president replied: "Yes, I'm sure."He continued to attack Greenfield, however. "I think she's very biased against us," Trump said. "I think that we've made that very clear."

Posting attacks on a random court officer is an excellent illustration of how contemptible Trump isand there's no question that he was attacking her, because he posted a photo of her when he did it. Here he's finally in a position where he can't do that sort of thing with impunity, even if the punishment is pocket change to him. Outside the courtroom, Trump called Engoron corrupt and said he was under the control of prosecutor Letitia James and Joe Biden.

I wonder if Trump has the genuine courage to get himself imprisoned over this. It would be great for his popularity among those with whom he is already popular, but I just don't know if the man could hack it even for a few hours.
The General Overseer of the Deeper Life Christian Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, on Wednesday, spoke on retiring from his office.

Kumuyi, while addressing journalists in Benin, Edo State disclosed that he has no plan to retire, noting that he is fit to run a relay race.

It was gathered that the cleric arrived in Benin City, the Edo State capital, around 2 pm for a six-day Global Crusade with Kumuyi with the theme, Loose Him, Let Him Go

The event is scheduled to take place at the Garrick Memorial Grammar School, Ekhewan Road, Benin City.

Kumuyi in his statement expressed optimism that the six-day conference would also impact positively on the physical and spiritual lives of the people.

READ MORE: Charly Boy Knocks Kumuyi Over Statement On Tinubus Administration

When asked if he was considering retiring after decades as the founder of the ministry, he said: If you rest while you are not tired, if you rest while your vision is becoming brighter, If you rest when you see farther than you saw 50 years ago, you will not be called the wise man.

Im getting the vision, more anointing, strength, and power. I can run a relay race today more than I could 50 years ago.

When I start getting tired, I can start thinking of retirement. But for now, the vision is coming so fast that Im trying to catch up. So, no retirement yet.

I have great remembrance of what took place in earlier years when I started coming to Edo State. Im thinking about things that happened and am excited. I want to see greater things happening at this time.

There was a woman that was paralyzed and was brought from the village and came to the crusade, and I prayed for everyone, and lives were changed.

I told this woman to go and that she has gotten her miracle and she cried. She got to her village and low and behold when they wanted to help her from the lorry, the power of God came upon her and she stood up from the lorry herself and it was a great scene.
Following the defeat of Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party at the Supreme Court today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended hands of collaboration.

Collaborating with him, he said, would aid building Nigeria and moving the country forward.

Recall that the Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed appeals filed by Atiku and Obi against Tinubus emergence as President.

Reacting, Tinubu in a statement titled: It is time for us to build our great nation together, said his victory at the Supreme Court has further energised and strengthened his commitment to serve Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes and faiths with honour and total respect.

His words: I welcome the verdict of the Justice John I. Okoro-led Panel of the Supreme Court on the Presidential Election petitions filed by the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, challenging the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

The court has done justice to all issues put up for consideration in the petitions on the merits of the law, without fear or favour. There is no doubt, with the profound judgment of today, that our electoral jurisprudence and constitutional democracy are further consolidated and embedded more indelibly in our national identity because of the diligence and undaunted professionalism of the Honourable Justices who presided over the matter.

While the verdict of today has laid to rest the agitating discourse over who truly won the 2023 Presidential election and met the constitutional requirements as laid out by law, I want to reiterate that my faith in our nations judiciary has never been shaken, not even for a moment, because I know that our hallowed courts of law will not fail to administer justice to all Nigerians in all matters and at all times. Despite the fusillade of pressure and attempts at intimidation by some political actors, the judiciary demonstrated its unequivocal commitment to upholding the rule of law for the upliftment and defense of humanity.

READ ALSO: Were Disappointed, Supreme Court Condoned Forgery, Falsehood, Perjury  PDP

It was affirmed once more today, that my party, the governing All Progressives Congress, had freely and fairly won the popular mandate of Nigerians, which has since given rise to my leadership of this great nation at a tumultuous period of unprecedented reforms in our history as a nation.

With deep gratitude to God Almighty, I solemnly and humbly accept todays judicial victory with an intense sense of responsibility and a burning desire to meet the great challenges confronting our people. The victory of today has further energised and strengthened my commitment to continue to serve all Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes, and faiths, with honour and total respect for the diverse opinions and uniting values of our citizens.

Our Renewed Hope agenda for a greater and prosperous Nigeria has further gained momentum and I will continue to work from morning to night, every single day, to build a country that meets our collective yearnings and aspirations.

We are all members of one household, and this moment demands that we continue to work and build our country together. The strength of our diversity and the great citizenship that binds us must now compel us forward in directing the energy of our people towards building a virile, stronger, united, and more prosperous country.

In the days and months ahead, I trust that the spirit of patriotism will be elevated into supporting our administration to improve the living conditions of Nigerians. I am prepared to welcome the contributions of all Nigerians to foster and strengthen our collective progress.

I send my immense gratitude to all Nigerians for the mandate to serve our country. I promise again to meet and exceed your expectations in service delivery and good governance, working with my team and trusting in the grace of God.

Meanwhile Tinubu told his aides that their jobs are secure while responding to the affirmation of his victory by the Supreme Court.

As seen in a viral video, some aides of the President rushed into his office to congratulate him while he was attending to some files on his table.

Tinubu however paused and said, Thank you very much!, adding, Your jobs are secure.
Nigerian Rapper Tochukwu Ojogwu, popularly known as Odumodublvck has described Nigeria as a bad place.

The Declan Rice crooner, who recently signed an international record deal with Def Jam UK, said he is only making waves in the global music market because he made it out of the jungle.

READ ALSO: Nigerians Dont Respect Hip-Hop  ODUMODUBVLCK

He said that most times when he states the obvious about Nigeria, people caution him not to demarket his country, but the truth is that Nigeria is a bad place.

Speaking in the latest episode of Londons 90 podcasts, Odumodublvck said, Nigeria is f*cked. I tell people, they say, You know its your country; dont speak about it like that. Nigeria is a bad place. The reason why me and Teezee are here is because we made it out of the jungle.
Former lawmaker representing the Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, revealed why President Bola Tinubu appointed Nyesom Wike as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

According to Sani, Tinubu appointed Wike as minister because the he does not want to betray the former Rivers State Governor for working for him in the 2023 general elections.

Sani urged Wike to decamp from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the All Progressives Congress (APC) rather than playing games with the two parties.

The former lawmaker, during an interview with The Punch, on Wednesday, said that this will give Wike the opportunity to work excellently for President Tinubu as the FCT Minister and without distractions.

He said: Asiwaju (President) wants to send a message that he does not betray those who work for his own emergence.

As long as Wike remains in the PDP, it wont be a relevant party because it will never be relevant in its scheme of opposition. Because they will control the structure of the party and ensure that whoever will emerge will not be a serious threat to the APC.

PDP is still afraid of taking action against those who undermined its victory and it will confine it to irrelevance as far as it has no punishment for anti-party elements because as long as there are people who have one leg in the PDP and one in APC, PDP will never fly and nobody is going to take the PDP seriously as far as party politics is concerned.

Once it has become the appendage of the APC because for Wike to remain in the PDP, is to make sure it never plays the role of an opposition party. He is the hand of Esau in PDP, the voice of Jacob in APC.

READ MORE: Shehu Sani Slams Wole Soyinkas Critics Over Alleged Fake Academic Records

He further stated: My own advice is for Nyesome Wike to simply decamp to APC where he will be able to serve the party and also leave PDP to claim its role as an opposition.

It will be more respectable for him to join the APC and work without being distrusted by both sides because if he continues to divide his legs between the APC and the PDP, he will live as a very confused, disorganise man with an unstable political career.

So, as far as I am concerned, he has a lot to deliver. As Minister of FCT, I have no doubt about his capacity as a performer. One that will bring sanity to Abuja and so many changes, but he is still being seen as a Judas and the position is occupying is his own 30 pieces of silver and that is not a good position.

The best thing is for him to decamp so that he can work very well for President Bola Tinubu and also for the APC.

As far as I am concerned, I think the PDP has to choose where it wants to be in the history of Nigerias politics at this time.

PDP has lost power to APC, and it is now losing the role of the opposition to the Labour Party. If you look at what is happening, most of the attacks and counterattacks are coming from the APC and the LP.

So, it has reached a point that even most members of APC dont consider PDP as a serious opposition. The PDP has lost power to APC, and it is losing its position of the opposition to the Labour Party and that will be a death sentence for the party if things progress along this line.
The operatives of Rivers State Police command have arrested a man, suspected to be a yahoo boy and a ritualist, identified as Collins for allegedly killing his girlfriend, Otuene Justina Nkang.

INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that Nkang, a 300-level Biochemistry female student of the University of Port Harcourt had earlier been reported missing, but was later found mutilated at the suspects residence situated on Road 15, NTA Road, Port Harcourt, the stats capital.

It was gathered that Collins was caught by his estates security personnel when he was trying to dispose of her corpse after killing her and extracting her eyes, breasts and private parts.

READ MORE: UNIPORT Student, 24, Kills Girlfriend For Using Kayanmata

Following the alarm raised by the security personnel, eyewitnesses stormed the suspects apartment and found Justinas remains, slaughtered in parts and stacked in sacks dripping with blood.

He was whisked to the police station while the deceaseds body parts were taken to the morgue.

Reacting to the horrible incident, the states Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Grace Iringe-Koko, a Superintendent of Police (SP), refused to make a comment, she said the Commissioner of Police (CP) would address the press on the development by 12 p.m. on Thursday.

See pictures bellow:
Some suspected supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, were spotted at the premises of the Supreme Court, as the final judgement on the battle between the incumbent President, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi commenced.

Recall that Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party including, Obi of Labour Party had earlier rejected the verdict by the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.

The PDP and LPs candidates are seeking for the nullification of the victorys of Tinubu, announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

READ MORE: Supreme Court To Deliver Verdict On Atiku, Obis Appeals Against Tinubus Election Victory On Thursday

The apex court, on Monday, heard the cases and on Wednesday announced that judgment would be delivered today.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, the supporters were spotted with placards, banners and shirts with different inscriptions. One of the banners, as seen in photos shared by Daily Trust, says: 2023 Na JAGABAN/SHETTIMA TURN, WAIT FOR YOUR TURN.

Some of the banners held by the protesters at the Supreme Court entrance had inscriptions claiming that President Tinubu loves the Niger Delta people, while another said Presidency is not an MMM scheme.

See photos below:
Robert Davis, 19, who is accused of killing journalist and activist Josh Kruger, was arrested at his South Philadelphia home Wednesday night and is expected to be charged with murder, police said.

Damica Robert said she and her son arranged for police to pick up him shortly after 8:40 p.m., after he had spent more than two weeks on the run. Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore confirmed that Davis was in custody.

The District Attorneys Office said Thursday that Davis would be charged with murder, illegal gun possession, tampering with evidence, and related crimes.

 READ MORE: Family of man wanted for killing Josh Kruger says the 19-year-old and the journalist shared sex and drugs

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Police say Davis entered Krugers Point Breeze home in the middle of the night on Oct. 2 and shot him multiple times before fleeing. Kruger, 39, ran outside to seek help, before collapsing on the sidewalk. Police rushed him to a hospital, where he died a short time later.

Police have said the motive behind the killing remains unclear, but that the pair were in a relationship.

Davis mother and older brother said that relationship began years ago, when Davis was just 15, and involved sex, drugs, and abuse. They told The Inquirer in recent interviews that Davis said Kruger was threatening to post sexually explicit videos of him online before, police say, Davis shot him.

He was scared, Damica Davis said of her son. He said ... He wanted me to do some stuff I didnt want to do, and if I didnt do it, he said he was going to blackmail me.

Detectives separately discovered and are investigating what multiple law enforcement sources have described as explicit photos and messages in Krugers phone. The sources, who requested anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation, did not say whether the images or messages were connected to Davis, but said they were disturbing and have been turned over to the departments Special Victims Unit for further analysis.

The Davis familys assertions, and revelations from investigators, have added concerning new complexities to a shooting that garnered national attention. Kruger was well-known in the community as a freelance journalist and advocate for the LGBTQ community, and people experiencing homelessness and addiction. He worked for the city, including the Office of Homeless Services, for five years.

Damica Davis said that if her son did kill Kruger, theres no excuse. But she believes Robert is also a victim and he endured years of sexual abuse.

Its tragic what happened, Davis said. But I feel like my son is a victim in this, as well.

Damica Davis and her older son Jaylin Reason said that when Robert was 15, he told his family he was seeing an older white woman he met online who worked for the government. He would sneak out of the house, then return in the early morning hours, often high on drugs and with expensive gifts that he told them were from the woman, they said.

Davis became addicted to meth, which exacerbated his ongoing mental health troubles, his mother and brother said.

They frequently saw the name Josh pop up on his phone, they said, but when they asked who Josh was, Davis told them it was the womans brother, who was gay.

In time, they said, Davis told them the truth: there was no woman  he had been seeing Kruger all along.

They said they had followed Davis to Krugers block on the 2300 block of Watkins Street, desperate to find out where he was going and getting drugs. They trailed behind and watched as he walked the few blocks from their home, then turned onto Watkins Street, but they couldnt figure out which house he was going into, they said.

Damica Davis said she tried to get help for her son, but she had limited resources, and he sneaked out of the house often or lied about where he spent his time.

She also said her son had never been homeless, despite initial statements to the contrary by law enforcement officials.

As police searched for Davis in recent weeks, longtime LGBTQ and racial justice activist Asa Khalif said he and others had pledged to provide Davis with support, including legal representation.

No one is excusing the murder, but he has a story to tell, Khalif said.

Police, meanwhile, have shared few details publicly in the case. Many of the remaining questions, Vanore said, lie with Davis.
Bucks County Democrats are seeking a court order authorizing the removal of campaign signs like this one in the Central Bucks School District. The county's Democratic Committee says the signs, which don't have valid disclaimers on who paid for them, violate state law. Read more

The Bucks County Democratic Committee is asking a court to authorize the removal of campaign signs in the Central Bucks School District that call Democrats groomers and accuse radical Democratic candidates of bringing chaos to the district.

The signs are defamatory, according to the Democrats chair, State Sen. Steve Santarsiero  but thats not the reason the party filed an emergency motion Wednesday in the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas seeking an injunction.

The issue: They all violate state law, Santarsiero said. Some particularly large signs  stating one Democratic candidate supports defund the police & Marxist BLM, and another supports sexually graphic books for minors and wont protect girls sports/safe spaces!  dont include any language about who authorized or paid for them.

Pennsylvania law requires that any advertisement that expressly advocates the election or defeat of a candidate must contain a disclaimer that clearly states who paid for it.

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Meanwhile, other signs put up in the district  including one that reads Hey Democrats! Groom dogs not kids! Schools teach academics not porn  have small stickers saying PAID FOR BY: LetsGoBrandon.com.

The site for Lets Go Brandon  a slogan for a profane phrase aimed at President Joe Biden  advertises a cryptocurrency it calls Americas Free Speech Coin.

The sticker is obviously not a legitimate disclaimer, Santarsiero said. (In an email, the Miami hedge fund manager associated with the meme coin, James Koutoulas, said a reporters question was first Ive heard of the Central Bucks signs, adding that the letsgobrandon.com foundation didnt pay for them but they sound funny and on brand.)

According to Central Bucks residents, the signs sprouted up over the weekend  inflaming an already bitter battle ahead of the Nov. 7 elections, which have focused on culture-war issues and personal attacks as Republicans and Democrats square off for five school board seats.

They were vile, said Lisa Horst, a parent and Democrat in the district. Noting that some of the signs were put up near schools, Horst said that our kids shouldnt be seeing this language, driving by every day.

To Horst, the aggressiveness, and the level of defamatory statements were disturbing, even in a district that has been at the center of intense political debate since the pandemic.

Horst called the Bucks County Board of Elections on Monday to complain about the signs, and they said they were getting calls all day.

Jim OMalley, a spokesperson for the county, said the board of elections did receive a number of complaints about the signs, and did relay the concerns to the political parties.

The executive director of the Bucks County Republican Committee, Phil Mironov, said the party didnt have any role.

We dont know who put those up, Mironov said. Obviously, theyre not ours.

Paul Martino, a Central Bucks father and GOP donor who spent $500,000 on Pennsylvania school board races in 2021, and is backing the Central Bucks Republican candidates  including his wife, Aarati Martino  in this years races, posted on social media that he had nothing to do with the signs.

I was just as surprised as you all when I saw them yesterday morning, Martino wrote Sunday on Facebook. Still, he said, they were an indication that grassroots people had been activated, which is good for all of us. (But, Martino said, he would have NEVER put out the grooming sign, saying this messaging is dangerous and it plays into stereotypes the left likes to use about us.)

The signs arent the only campaign attack that has drawn outrage from community members recently. In late August, a political action committee sent mailers to thousands of homes with a cartoon depicting oral sex, and a line drawing of a penis  images taken from Gender Queer and This Book Is Gay, both banned from Central Bucks libraries under a policy passed last year by the Republican-led school board.

Extreme Central Bucks Democrats are fighting to keep these books in our middle school and high school libraries, said the mailers, sent by Stop Bucks Extremism  which promised to continue highlighting the disgusting positions of the Democratic candidates.

The GOP operative behind the PAC, Bob Salera, told Fox Business last week that he was banned from Staples, where he had an online mailbox that served as the return address for Stop Bucks Extremisms mailers.

According to Fox, Salera said he was told by Staples that many people complained because they were highly upset about the content of the mailers.

(Martino recently disclosed that he had given Salera a seed check to get his new PAC off the ground.)

The signs Democrats are seeking to take down publicize key Republican points of attack on the Democratic candidates  including accusing Rick Haring of bringing a fraudulent lawsuit that will result in a 50% tax increase. Actually, its his wife, a teacher in Central Bucks, who has sued over pay equity.

The districts lawyer said during a recent school board meeting that a settlement demand from 360 teachers would require that level of increase, though Democrats have pointed out that Pennsylvanias Act 1 index limits property tax increases  this year, to 4.1%.

Central Bucks Forward, the slate of Republican candidates, didnt respond to a request for comment on the signs.

Diana Leygerman, a volunteer for Central Bucks Neighbors United, the slate of Democratic candidates, said the signs were coming from people who are losing. She added that Democrats believe their opponents are also stealing their signs, and have started placing AirTags on some of them to track their movement; on Tuesday night, they traced one heading to South Philadelphia.

Santarsiero said Democrats are seeking court approval to remove the signs not just now, but in the event they reappear before or on Election Day.

I want to be sure we have a court order clear to law enforcement, he said.
Rutgers University President Jonathan Holloway (left) hosts Richard Haass, president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, during his seminar class "Citizenship, Institutions, and the Public" at RutgersNew Brunswick on Oct. 4. Haass led the council for 20 years and before that was director of policy planning for the U.S. Department of State. He worked closely with former Secretary of State Colin Powell under President George W. Bush. Read more

Free speech on college campuses has become an increasingly hot issue: Some argue that certain controversial speakers should not be permitted, while others assert the exchange of ideas, even the most vile, shouldnt be barred.

Wading into the mix is Jonathan Holloway, the president of Rutgers University, who has joined a national movement of more than a dozen college presidents committed to championing free expression, civic preparedness and the civil exchange of ideas on campus.

For his part, Holloway is teaching a freshman seminar Citizenship, Institutions, and the Public, where he invites prominent government, business, media and political figures  including those he doesnt necessarily agree with  for debate about the state of the nation. Among those hes had so far are the president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, a prominent Baptist pastor, a former Goldman Sachs executive and the chief Washington correspondent for Fox News.

 READ MORE: Rutgers president on the medical school merger, that vote of no confidence, and the faculty strike

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He also made the issue a core message in his new student convocation address in August, encouraging everyone to learn to listen to one another.

Everybody believes in free speech until they hear something they dont like, Holloway, 56, said during an interview this month in his New Brunswick campus office. Thats the moment when you have to say if you really believe, then you have to deal with this ugly thing that you dont like.

Civil exchange is also integral to the college experience, he wrote in an essay with Roslyn Clark Artis, president of Benedict College, a historically black college in South Carolina.

We have seen students drown out speakers with whom they disagree, faculty hold back from sharing viewpoints that might be deemed controversial, and politics influencing hiring decisions, they wrote. This resistance to people and positions that are different is antithetical to the exchange of ideas that should be core to the college experience.

 READ MORE: First black president for Rutgers University expected to be appointed

The initiative is led by the Institute for Citizens and Scholars, a Princeton-based nonprofit founded in 1945 to prepare more professors to teach following the GI bill, but has now expanded to focus more broadly on civic preparation. The institute brought the group of presidents together to reprioritize the role colleges play in producing good citizens, with the free speech initiative as their first project, said Rajiv Vinnakota, the institutes president.

The presidents project was born in part out of a conversation that Vinnakota and Holloway had in 2020, shortly after Holloway became president, about the need to better focus on developing good citizens  those who are well informed, productively engaged for the common good, and committed to democracy, Vinnakota said.

Vinnakota was having similar conversations with other college presidents, too, especially amid the pandemic and racial reckoning following the murder of George Floyd that inflamed tensions on campuses.

Presidents, Vinnakota said, were under tremendous pressure when they tried to take on controversial issues and thought they could draw support from one another. Now the effort includes presidents from different types of institutions, among them Cornell and Duke Universities, the University of Notre Dame, the University of Pittsburgh, and Wellesley College.

There is strength in numbers in doing this hard work, he said.

 READ MORE: Rutgers University senate votes no confidence in the schools president after faculty strike and controversial changes

Critical for university leadership to step up

We were just thrilled to see all these presidents stepping up to make this one of their initiatives for the year, said Laura Beltz, director of policy reform for the Philadelphia-based Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, even more so now, when we see all this division on campuses with regard to Israel and Hamas. Its even more critical for university leadership to step up and tell their students that they have the right to freedom of expression no matter what their viewpoints may be.

Other than cases where speakers are clearly inciting violence or harassing or discriminating against someone directly, speech  even hate speech  should be permitted, she said. Rutgers recently ranked 120 out of 248 universities on FIREs survey that gauges how students perceive campus support for free speech, she said.

 READ MORE: Critics in an uproar over speakers at this weekends Palestine Writes literature festival held at Penn

The University of Pennsylvania has been in the crosshairs since the Palestine Writes literature festival was held on campus last month, with some criticizing speakers who have had a history of making antisemitic remarks. Some heavyweight donors, including Marc Rowan, a Wharton graduate and CEO of Apollo Global Management, and Jon Huntsman Jr., former governor of Utah and a former U.S. ambassador, have since withdrawn financial support for Penn for not taking a strong enough stance against those speakers and for its early response to the Hamas attack.

Rowan called on Penn president Liz Magill and board chair Scott L. Bok to resign.

 READ MORE: Penn donor who gave $50 million calls for university leaders to resign over embrace of antisemitism

But other donors and supporters, including Penns alumni president, according to the Daily Pennsylvanian, the school newspaper, have backed Penns response, which was to condemn the Hamas attacks as terrorism and pledge to fight antisemitism, while supporting free exchange of ideas on campus. Former Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell, a Penn alumnus, told CNN this week that he didnt think Magills mistake was severe enough that she should resign.

If I had to step down as governor every time I made a mistake, he told CNN, I wouldnt have made it a week.

Weve lost big donors

Holloway said Rutgers has faced financial consequences for standing by free speech.

We have lost millions of dollars in gifts because this particular professor tweeted something, he said, declining to name the professor.

Weve lost big donors who have a history of giving seven-figure gifts. That is a really hard and painful thing because my job is to raise money for the university.

He said if a speaker is invited to campus by a student group, faculty or department through the proper channels, that person can speak.

We dont disinvite speakers, he said.

While he wasnt familiar with the details of the Palestine Writes festival, Holloway said it sounded like the group went through proper channels, but as people learned about the speaker lineup, some felt threatened or harmed.

Thats when things get into that really messy place, he said.

The upheaval over the canceled appearance of the Proud Boys at Pennsylvania State University last year seems more clear-cut, he said. There were clashes between protesters and counterprotesters and the threat of escalating violence, according to Penn State, so he understood the decision to shut it down, he said.

Last year he found out about a speaker whose views were utterly repugnant who was brought to campus by a student group.

When I was confronted with this, I said they did things properly [following the process for speakers], he said. I do not like these views, but everything worked.

However, if white nationalist Richard Spencer tried to come, thats a trip wire for me, he said, noting threats of violence and the $500,000 the University of Florida spent for security to host him.

We build trust on a one-to-one basis

Holloway said hes not had to prohibit a speaker, but I think its inevitable.

Then, he said, someone will ask how come you allowed this and not this and the answer is its deeply subjective. Thats not going to feel satisfactory, but its honest.

In his convocation address, he told students they will hear speech they find unsettling and perhaps offensive.

That hit home with Jack Reicheg, 18, a freshman from Princeton who is in Holloways class. A week later, he passed someone aggressively preaching Christianity on campus.

It made me think that its not something I have to get involved with, he said. I can just choose to ignore it.

Emma Perez, 18, a journalism major from Parsippany, also in Holloways class, said its frustrating when people arent willing to learn the pros and cons of an issue.

Free speech is totally viable with the right education, she said.

Discussions in one of Holloways recent seminar classes acknowledged the inherent difficulties when views are so opposing.

How can I trust somebody whose worldview doesnt have room for someone who looks like me or looks like you? Holloway asked.

Vinnakota responded: You engage with that person. ... In the end as human beings, we build trust on a one-to-one basis ... you get to know the person. ... You try to understand them.
The three finalist chip flavors from Herrs previous contest: Johns Roast Pork sandwich, Mikes Korean BBQ wings, and Corropoleses Tomato Pie. Corropolese's was the winner. Read more

Herrs, the Chester County snack maker, is scouting out flavors to consider for its third annual Flavored by Philly contest, in which it showcases chips whose flavors are inspired by Philadelphia-area small businesses and restaurants.

Theres cash ($10,000 to the winner and $5,000 to the nominator) and bragging rights on the line.

For the most recent contest, in June, judges narrowed down the ideas to flavors inspired by Mikes BBQs Korean barbecue wings, Corropolese Bakerys tomato pie, and Johns Roast Porks pork sandwich. Bags of chips hit the market for a limited time, and the public was invited to vote. In August, Corropolese was named the winner, sending $10,000 to the East Norriton bakery and $5,000 to David Gilmartin of Royersford, the longtime customer who nominated.

 READ MORE: Tag along on a factory tour of Herr's

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The first contest, in 2022, asked the public to submit only the flavor profile. Long Hots & Sharp Provolone won out over finalists Wiz Wit (cheesesteak) and (215) Special Sauce (salt, pepper, ketchup, and hot sauce).

According to the rules, a small-business owner may self-nominate a flavor idea, but would only be eligible to win the $10,000 for the winning flavor.

After the nominations close Nov. 14, judges will review the submissions and select three small-business flavor finalists. The finalist chips will go on sale next summer and voting will begin. It is not known if Herrs will continue to produce bags of the winning flavor after the contest; it has not done so in the past.

What makes a good chip flavor?

Herrs has seen it all by now  sweet flavors like cannoli and doughnut, and savory flavors like pierogi and taco. This years contest alone received nearly 1,500 submissions, Herrs said.

Ed Herr, president and CEO of Herrs, said the companys best-sellers  besides plain  are sour cream and onion, salt and vinegar, and barbecue. Herrs also sells a lot of ketchup flavors, and that tomato profile may have given an edge to Corropolese.

Once Corropolese became a finalist, Herr said his team and Corropolese staff went back and forth to match the flavors to a chip. Flavorings are different whether they are applied to a bread base opposed to a potato base, he explained.

Once the Corropolese chips were released, there was something about the [tomato pie] flavor that I think resonated with people, Herr said. The recipe has a little bit of a sweetness to it. It almost tastes like a sweet garlic, but its not garlic. A ketchup flavor has always been popular  something you put on french fries, obviously, is good on potatoes. In addition to that, Corropolese has a strong following. They have a lot of customers in and out of the store who can vote on that sort of thing. Ah, word of mouth.

Are there any flavors that just dont work with potato chips?

Because potato chips are such a neutral base, its hard to find flavors that dont taste good on potato chips, Herr said. Even truffle oil or mustard, just about any condiment, or butter, or honey  all these kind of things go good with potato chips, he said, trying to think of a potential clunker combination.

Like some fruit flavors maybe?

Youd want to put [them] with something else like jalapeno or something like that, he said. That could work. Jalapeno is another really popular flavor. Even anchovy tastes good on a chip.

So the answer is no. Anything goes.

Contest tips

You need to think outside the bag. First, review Herrs current roster of chips. The company now has about three dozen flavors. It also partners with national brands like Grill Mates, Neuchatel, and Old Bay. Its even partnered with local companies. (Remember the Chickies & Petes Crabfries-flavored chips from seven years ago?) Nominating a popular brand is not a bad idea.

Key dates for the Herrs contest

Public voting has begun online. Nominations are due Nov. 14 at 11:59 p.m. The public voting will run from June 11 to Aug. 9, 2024. In the case of multiple nominations of one business, the earliest entrant will be considered, Herrs said.
Diners at a restaurant in Murfreesboro, Tennessee had a scare yesterday morning when somebody noticed a car parked outside with a "suspicious device" plastered to its side. In fact, police evacuated many businesses in the area, as well as a major intersection, worried that the strips covered in duct tape and wires were a bomb.

First responders rushed to the scene and "told us there was a bomb threat and basically screamed at us to get out," said a woman who worked in one of the evacuated buildings.

But after two hours of high drama, the strange apparatus turned out to be nothing more than DIY rubber bumpers, created by the car owner to prevent dings.

"We had a massive, massive response to this location to find out it was a man who was trying to prevent his car from being dented," said Murfreesboro's public safety information officer, via KRON 4.

The punchline to the story is that the car's owner had been standing with a crowd of evacuees across the street from the scene of the scare almost the entire time, not realizing until he finally got a call from authorities that it was his own handmade gizmo that had caused the brouhaha.

Since the eyesore was created without malice, the gentleman will not be charged.
Jefferson Health facilities lead the region in providing hip and knee replacements in 2022, according to Pennsylvania hospital billing data. Read more

If youre among the thousands of people in Southeastern Pennsylvania getting a hip or knee replaced this year, its increasingly likely that you will end up at a Jefferson Health facility.

Jefferson acquired three Pennsylvania health systems since 2015  plus took control of two orthopedic specialty hospitals that are joint ventures with Rothman Orthopaedic Institute.

In recent years, those two hospitals  Rothman Orthopaedic Specialty Hospital in Bensalem and Physicians Care Surgical Hospital in Royersford, where Main Line Health is also a partner  have seen explosive growth in joint replacements.

Combined, the two facilities performed 3,923 hip and knee replacements in the year ended Sept. 30, 2022, up nearly 50% over four years, according to an Inquirer analysis of data released Wednesday by the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council.

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The local market for such surgeries was up just 9%, compared to the 12 months ended June 30, 2018.

The Inquirer culled the data from Cost Containment Council reports. (The analysis reflects an adjustment for Jeanes Hospital, which is now under Temple University Hospital. The 2018 counts were combined to get an apples-to-apples comparison.)

The declines at Bryn Mawr Hospital are likely because Main Line Health, in partnership with Rothman and others, in June 2017 opened the Orthopaedic Surgery Center at Bryn Mawr Hospital, a separately licensed outpatient facility that has pulled business from the hospital.

Not in the top ten, but also having an impact on the market are other new ambulatory surgery centers like Bucks County Surgical Suites in Warrington and Muve West Chester. They are both in the top 20 for both knee and hip.
A dead humpback whale lies in the surf in Brigantine on Jan. 13. Environmental groups held a news conference a few days later in neighboring Atlantic City to support offshore wind power development and decry what they call the false narrative that offshore wind site preparation work is responsible for seven whale deaths in New Jersey and New York in little over a month. Read more

At any given time, 50 or more vessels, ranging from massive cargo ships to small fishing boats, are motoring off New Jerseys 127-mile coast from New York to Delaware.

The smaller vessels often travel at just a few knots per hour, while larger ones run to 20 knots (23 mph) or more.

Little wonder whales sometimes crash into one of them, receiving what amounts to giant headaches or fatal blows.

Two whales that died in January and were stranded in Atlantic City and Brigantine showed evidence of blunt-force trauma associated with vessel collisions. Opponents of offshore wind have suggested survey vessels are to blame, but officials suggest otherwise.

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Walt Nadolny, a professor emeritus at SUNY Maritime College in New York, has been teaching students for two decades how to avoid whale strikes before they head to sea as merchant mariners.

The odds are ridiculously low that the whales struck a slow-going survey vessel, said Nadolny, who has no affiliation with an offshore wind company.

Orsted, a global offshore wind company that started in Denmark, is set to build New Jerseys first wind farm but has not started construction. In January, it has had one vessel at a time on the water totaling little more than seven days.

Nadolny surmises that its highly unlikely an offshore wind surveying vessel, which normally would travel at 8 to 10 knots (9 to 11 mph), could cause a fatal blow to a whale. Orsted says its vessels travel slower than 10 knots.

Nadolny said fatal collisions typically occur with bigger ships traveling 18 knots (21 mph) or more. Usually only large commercial ships travel that fast.

For example, on Friday morning the Maersk Pittsburgh container ship with a gross tonnage of 74,642 was traveling off the coast of Long Beach Island from New York City to Charleston, S.C., at almost 21 knots (24 mph), according to tracking provided on marinetraffic.com. Multiple other container ships were traveling at similar speeds.

Many of those fast ships, Nadolny noted, often come from, or are headed to, the busy ports of New York/New Jersey or the Delaware Bay toward Philadelphia. The ships are required to reduce speed only as they near the ports, but they often follow voluntary speed restrictions farther out.

Unusual mortality event

At least 178 humpback whales have died from Maine to Florida since 2016, with necropsies completed on half. About 40% of those bear evidence of being struck by a vessel or entangled in fishing gear, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrations Marine Fisheries Service, which has designated the time period as an unusual mortality event that predated offshore wind-energy activity.

NOAA scientists say whales die from a variety of causes, and necropsies are often difficult to carry out, especially if the bodies are badly decomposed. Sometimes, no cause of death is determined.

No whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities, said Lauren Gaches, a spokesperson for NOAA. We know of several factors that may be driving these interactions. As the humpback whale population has grown, their occurrence in the Mid-Atlantic has increased. These whales may be following their prey, which were hearing from our partners in the region are reportedly close to shore this winter.

Over the last year, there have been nine large whale strandings from Maine to Cape Hatteras, N.C., which NOAA describes as a recent pulse of deaths. Humpback whale strandings tend to occur in winter months.

A humpback whale was found dead last week in Assateague Island in Maryland. A cause of death has not been released.

N.J. whale deaths

Recent deaths have shown signs of vessel strikes, but tests might take weeks to months, and its possible no conclusion might ever be reached on some.

A humpback whale found dead in Atlantic City on Jan. 7, however, had clear evidence of a large head injury behind the blowhole, leading to the belief it was struck by a vessel.

 READ MORE: Humpback whale washed up in Atlantic City had a head injury, officials say, as groups call for wind turbine inquiry

The most recent death along the New Jersey coast occurred Jan. 12 in Brigantine. The 32-foot female also showed signs of being struck.

 READ MORE: For the second time in a week, a young humpback whale was found dead on a Jersey Shore beach

Preliminary results based on observations during the necropsy suggest that the whale suffered blunt trauma injuries consistent with those from a vessel strike, the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine said in a statement about the Jan. 12 stranding. Injuries and hemorrhaging were observed on the head and thoracic region, as well as along the right side and the pectoral flipper.

The statement added, Although there has been speculation about whether these whale deaths are linked to wind energy development, at this point no whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities. We will continue to gather data and go where the science leads us.

There are currently a high number of large whales in the waters off New Jersey, the center said, attracted by small fish that attract stripers. So, it advises boaters to travel slower than 10 knots (11 mph). Currently, any vessel 65 feet or longer is required to travel at that lower speed as it enters major ports.

Offshore wind testing

Social media forums are filled with people questioning whether offshore wind vessels using sonar or seismic testing are to blame.

Orsted is set to build New Jerseys first wind farm, Ocean Wind I, which calls for as many as 98 wind turbines to be erected about 12 miles off Atlantic City. The company says it is not performing any seismic activity as part of its testing of the seafloor. It is not using sonar, but fathometers, an old technology long used to judge water depth.

Our current work off the coast of New Jersey consists of surveys and does not involve sounds or actions that will disturb whales or any ocean mammals, Maddy Urbish, Orsteds head of government affairs and market strategy for New Jersey, said in a statement. Orsted-contracted vessels have not experienced any marine mammal strikes during offshore survey activity in the U.S.

Orsted said it carried out geotechnical investigations of the ocean floor Jan. 4-10 with its ship Regulus, a 272-foot vessel that has since moved out of the area. Another vessel, the NorthStar Voyager, will be conducting surveys in the next few days.

Orsted provides weekly briefings to mariners, with the latest saying that the NorthStar Voyager will be traveling along a planned cable route and within the area it has leased from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management. It asks vessels to provide a wide berth because the ship will be limited to maneuver because it is towing gear as much as 300 meters behind.

The ship is conducting tests to learn the nature of the soil under the seabed. During the test, a machine on the vessel presses a metal rod into the seafloor to test the soils friction and resistance. Orsted said the test is low in terms of noise impacts. Some of these kinds of tests use sound, Orsted said, but its vessels do not.

NOAA said the acoustic systems used by offshore wind ships around the world have not had whale strandings associated with them.

Orsted says it has at least one trained observer on board its vessels to monitor for marine mammals and report any disturbances of whales.

Paul Forsberg, a commercial ship captain who has conducted surveying work for offshore wind, posted a video Friday saying that surveying has been done since 2017 and that no known whale deaths have been associated with the activity. He said that operations are shut down immediately anytime a whale is spotted nearby, and that there were often multiple spotters on each vessel.

Forsberg said a small acoustic device known as a sparker with very low power was often used to scan the ocean floor.

Offshore wind opponents seized on the recent fatalities to tarnish the wind industry, he said.

If offshore wind surveying started way back in 2017 and now were into 2023, how come there arent hundreds of dead whales? Forsberg asked. Ill tell you why. Cause offshore wind survey stuff is not killing them.
First graders look through their new books at Mastery Harrity Elementary School in Philadelphia, Pa. during a free book fair hosted by Scholastic and "Abbott Elementary." Read more

Scholastic Books wont separate its books that celebrate diversity at book fairs after all.

The childrens book publishing company announced that it was reversing course on a previous call to separate books dealing with race and gender into a collection that elementary schools could opt out of when hosting book fairs this week.

The company said its Share Every Story, Celebrate Every Voice collection was meant to assist schools that wanted to host book fairs but were grappling with recent waves of legislation that limit how gender and identity are taught in classrooms. Critics said the partitioned collection pandered to extreme-right anti-woke culture and set a dangerous precedent.

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Several advocacy groups  including the National Black Justice Coalition, the Childrens Defense Fund, Color of Change, and PEN America  urged Scholastic to reverse its decision to segregate the books.

Now, the company is apologizing and the diversity collection is being phased out.

 READ MORE: Scholastic Book Fair will let schools opt out of collection that celebrates diversity

Even if the decision was made with good intention, we understand now that it was a mistake to segregate diverse books in an elective case, Scholastic president Ellie Berger said in a letter addressed to authors and illustrators that was obtained by media outlets. We recognize and acknowledge the pain caused, and that we have broken the trust of some of our publishing community, customers, friends, trusted partners, and staff, and we also recognize that we will now need to regain that trust.

Berger said that Scholastic would discontinue the diversity collection in January and that the company is working on a pivot plan for book fairs already planned for this fall.

Scholastic went public with its apology on Wednesday.

We understand now that the separate nature of the collection has caused confusion and feelings of exclusion, the company said in a statement. We are working across Scholastic to find a better way.

The diversity collection featured 64 books, including National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gormans book, Change Sings, and stories with diverse and LGBTQ characters.

Scholastic initially said the move was unavoidable, citing state laws and book bans nationwide that scrutinize books that address race, civil rights, gender identity and expression, LGBTQ themes, or topics centering around diversity and marginalized groups. Many state laws use intentionally vague language and put the onus on the educators to decide what books comply with regulations, threatening teachers jobs if certain books are taught or found in classrooms.

As noted by Education Week, the laws led to at least 3,300 instances of book bans in U.S. public schools and libraries in the 2022-23 school year and the removal of more than 1,500 titles from students access, according to PEN America data. In Pennsylvania, book bans are not as widespread as in other states. Still, the Central Bucks and Pleasant Valley School Districts have both placed books under review in the last year.

Advocacy groups such as PEN America and Color of Change are lauding Scholastic for pivoting.

Scholastic recognized that as difficult a bind as this pernicious legislation created, the right answer was not to become an accessory to censorship, Jonathan Friedman, the director of its Free Expression and Education program, said in a statement. Scholastic is an essential source of knowledge and a delight for countless children. We are glad to see them champion the freedom to read.
A juvenile humpback whale that washed ashore on the Atlantic City beach on Saturday was rolled up toward the dunes and buried the next day after a necropsy. Read more

ATLANTIC CITY  A young humpback whale that washed up on an Atlantic City beach on Saturday had evidence of a large head injury behind the blowhole, an official from the Marine Mammal Stranding Center said Monday.

The only thing we suspect may have happened is that it was hit by a large boat, said Sheila Dean, executive director of the Brigantine-based center. There was a big hematoma.

With environmental and citizens groups calling for a federal investigation into whether sonar mapping related to future wind turbine projects off the coast may have played a role in four recent humpback whale deaths in New Jersey, Dean said it was premature to conclude about a cause of death.

Others noted that the National Marine Fisheries Service has designated an unusual mortality event for humpback whales based on an increase in mortality that began in 2016, before any wind energy activity.

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Dean said samples from the whale were being tested to see what else might be going on. She said the whale was partially decomposed, which might affect how much could be determined.

 READ MORE: Another humpback whale washes up in Atlantic City

The whale was the second to wash up in Atlantic City in 15 days. Another washed up in Strathmere on Dec. 10 and a fourth in North Wildwood in July.

On Sunday, following the necropsy, the 30-foot whale was buried in the sand on the beach where it washed ashore, just in front of Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Local officials will continue to add sand so that it does not resurface.

A coalition of groups expressing alarm about the impact of coming wind turbines gathered there Monday afternoon at a spot Cindy Zipf, head of Clean Ocean Action, called a tragic, grim welcome mat, to the coming offshore wind facilities, the smell from the buried whale still hovering in the air.

Zipf called on the Biden administration to conduct a full investigation into the whale deaths to see if theres any connection to the wind turbine projects she says are being fast-tracked without proper pilot testing.

Its too much, too fast, she said. Its outrageous and our ocean deserves better.

Lauren Gaches, an NOAA fisheries spokesperson, said the unusual mortality event (UME) predated any offshore wind activities in the Atlantic Ocean and said 174 humpback whales had died.

Partial or full necropsy examinations were conducted on about half of the whales, she said, and about 40% had evidence of either a ship strike or entanglement. To date, no humpback whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities, she said.

The groups, including citizen groups Protect our Coast NJ and Defend Brigantine Beach, cited six whale deaths, including two in New York, in what they described as an unprecedented wave of whale deaths.

They noted that the companies have 11 active Incidental Take Authorizations from the National Marine Fisheries, which amount, said Suzanne Hornick of Protect Our Coast NJ, to a license to kill.

However, Gaches, the federal spokesperson, said NOAA Fisheries has not issued any incidental take authorization that attributes the mortality or injury of any marine mammal related to offshore wind activities and described them as incidental harassment authorizations.

rsted, a global offshore wind company, has state approval to build New Jerseys first turbines that should start produce power by the end of 2024. The company has not started construction.

Maddy Urbish, rsteds head of government affairs, said the company uses state-of-the-art technical equipment to avoid any impact on marine wildlife, and said combating climate change would reduce threats to marine life.

An impact statement on the wind project from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) said there are 1,369 humpback whales in the area.

Dean, of the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, noted that warmer waters have led to a large population of whales off New Jerseys coast, which could explain the deaths.

Its pretty much common sense, she said. Theyre out there.

She said it takes time for the samples to yield any conclusions. A full necropsy was not performed on the whale that washed up Dec. 23 near the Tropicana, because it was an especially cold and windy day, and officials decided to bury the animal quickly.

Danielle Brown, lead researcher for Gotham Whale, an advocacy and educational group, noted the increase in deaths dating back six years.

This is not something that just happened in 2022 or 2023, said Brown, a Ph.D. candidate at Rutgers Universitys Department of Ecology, Evolution and Natural Resources.

Brown said the primary cause of whale deaths has come when they collide with ships or get entangled in fishing gear.

The number of whales in the area has increased over the past decade as they follow schools of menhaden for food, Brown said. So it does make sense that an increase in whales in the area would lead to an increase in strandings.

Still, the recent whale deaths have rallied calls to halt the wind farms off the coast of New Jersey, where Gov. Phil Murphy has set a goal of producing 11,000 megawatts of offshore wind by 2040.

Weve worked all those years to stop ocean pollution, to stop ocean dumping, to stop liquefied natural gas facilities, to stop off shore oil drilling, Zipf said. And this ocean has come back so beautifully. Marine life is thriving. Now were going to be facing a huge industrialization.

New Jersey has approved several utility-scale offshore wind projects: Ocean Wind 1, approved in 2019, is owned by the global company rsted and Public Service Enterprise Group, parent company of PSE&G  the states largest power company.

Their 98 turbines would span an area from 15 to 27 miles starting southeast of the Atlantic City coast and would generate 1,100 megawatts of energy, enough to power more than 500,000 homes. Construction has not yet begun.

The BPU has approved two other wind projects: a 1,510 megawatt wind farm by EDF/Shell called Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind, and a 1,148-megawatt wind farm also by rsted and known as Ocean Wind 2. Another project is up for approval in 2023.

The BOEM filed a draft environmental impact statement last year for the Ocean Wind 1 project, calling for testing on the impact construction sounds would have on whales, such as driving for the massive monopiles that will serve as foundations for turbines.

More than 10,846 strikes are expected per pile with a rate of 50 strikes per minute.

Bob Stern of Save Long Beach Island Inc. said the group had cautioned the Fisheries Service a year ago that they were underestimating noise impacts on marine mammals.

Whales, most often endangered right whales, have been used as a rallying cry for conservative and fossil-fuel-industry-aligned groups fighting offshore wind projects.

The groups that gathered on the beach in Atlantic City on Monday dismissed any connection to those interests and said they only took donations from individuals.

Protect Our Coast NJ raises donations for the Ocean Environment Legal Defense Fund through its Facebook group and a web page. The fund is administered by the Caesar Rodney Institute, a Delaware based group that originated as a conservative nonprofit, but now bills itself as nonpartisan.

Hornick said the institute has no role in the groups activities beyond holding its funds.

The Heartland Institute, a national libertarian think tank, recently filed comments with the BOEM against an offshore wind project in Virginia to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale.

The Heartland Institute has been closely aligned with fossil fuel and conservative groups in the past, including ExxonMobil, the Mercer family, and Koch Industries, though it no longer discloses its funding sources, according to DeSmog, which tracks climate denial efforts.

The North Atlantic right whale is one of the worlds most endangered whales with less than 350 left. The Heartland Institutes comment said that the 2.6-gigawatt Virginia project would generate noise levels far in excess of the 120-decibel level which National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has determined is the maximum safe operational level for underwater sound.
Penn and Drexel students gathered for a protest to call for a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the Israeli occupation in Philadelphia, Pa. on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. The group marched from 33rd and Market Streets to the Penn campus Read more

Hundreds of students at Philadelphias three largest universities protested in solidarity with Palestinian people in the war-torn Gaza Strip on Wednesday, criticizing the academic institutions over what they say has been a lopsided pro-Israel atmosphere since war broke out Oct. 7.

The rallies at Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pennsylvania  part of a groundswell of walkouts at campuses nationwide  come amid accelerating tensions between students, faculty, administration, and even major donors over how the academic institutions align themselves in the overseas conflict.

Wednesdays walkout came a week after hundreds of Penn community members marched in unity with Israel, similarly criticizing the Ivy League administration over what they called an inert response to allegedly antisemitic rhetoric on campus, according to the Daily Pennsylvanian, the student newspaper.

Protesters on both sides have shared common grievances in recent weeks  a desire for university leaders to more loudly validate their causes, and a fear over public safety for both Jewish and Palestinian students on campus.

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Nada Abuasi, a Drexel graduate student who has family and friends in both Palestinian territories, said university officials have not offered adequate public support to Palestinian students such as herself. Many, she said, feared that too-public expressions of solidarity could also lead to severe repercussions.

Folks have to censor what they say, Abuasi told The Inquirer on Wednesday. They have to not speak about certain things because theyre afraid of how professors will react, theyre afraid of how the administration will react  and the reason this fear exists is because theyve seen it happen to others.

In University City, Abuasi and about 200 students marched from the dragon statue at Drexel into the heart of Penns campus, chanting messages of support while chiding university leaders to publicly recognize the Gazans suffering in the war, which has now killed more than 1,400 people in Israel and more than 6,500 people in Gaza.

In North Philadelphia, about 100 Temple students, many clad in kaffiyehs that covered their mouths, gathered under the campus bell tower, leveling similar claims against university leadership.

Students for Justice in Palestine, which organized the Temple rally, blasted Temple president Richard Englert for his Oct. 13 statement that condemned the Hamas attack while also vowing to maintain a diversity of thought about the conflict on campus. Englerts statement mentioned both the horrific violence in Israel and the ongoing violence in Gaza, but the student group said the memo offered one-sided sympathy for Israel.

A petition started by the group, which had been signed more than 1,300 times as of Wednesday evening, claimed that it created a chilling effect for Palestinian students who fear that activism on campus would lead to smear campaigns, doxing, and the distortion of [their] narratives to portray [them] as terrorists.

A Temple spokesperson said Englert did not plan to make an additional public statement, but shared a private email he sent to the student group responding to criticisms that his previous university-wide memos were not emphatic enough about the loss of life in Gaza. In the message, he told the group that the civilian death toll was heart-wrenching and a deep concern for the university.

As president of this university, it is not possible for me to reflect all the views of our Temple community, Englert wrote to the group. What I can do, though, is to emphasize the values that this institution holds dear, including respect for all people and the rejection of violence and terrorism in any form.

A Drexel spokesperson said the university is committed to creating an environment where community members can safely engage in challenging  and even uncomfortable  conversations and said that president John Fry had expressed his full sympathy to Drexel community members who have loved ones in both Israel and Gaza. Penn did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Many demonstrators at both campuses on Wednesday wore face coverings and said they would not speak publicly with the media, for fear of being targeted by university officials or losing financial aid due to the increasingly inflammatory tenor of the Israeli-Palestinian debate.

Several pointed to a recent doxing incident at Harvard University, where students who signed an anonymous letter blaming Israel for the Oct. 7 Hamas massacre were later identified and accused of antisemitism, their photos publicized on a digital billboard that was driven around campus.

Toward the end of the rally on Penns campus, a man walked through the crowd with his cell phone, attempting to film the faces of dozens of demonstrators. He left the scene without incident after being confronted  but the interaction left many on edge and spoke to the fraught moment unfolding on campuses.

The surveillance, harassment, and intimidation of these young people is like no other, said Devan Spear, a Penn alumna and activist who alleged that she had been targeted for supporting pro-Palestinian groups on campus more than a decade ago.

I know a lot of students and faculty are being threatened right with the loss of jobs or job possibilities, Nour Qutyan, a Temple graduate and former leader of Students for Justice in Palestine, told the crowd in North Philadelphia. I dont want this to be a moment where your fear silences you.

Tensions over the conflict had been bubbling in the months before the war. The Palestinian Writes literary festival at Penn last month erupted in controversy over the inclusion of speakers who had been accused of antisemitism. The universitys handling of the festival led to several heavyweight donors threatening to close their checkbooks, with at least one calling on university leaders to resign.

Some demonstrators said they didnt have high hopes over the situation at their schools. But Shane Mosley, 21, a former Drexel student who now attends the Community College of Philadelphia, said he is hopeful that students could pressure their institutions to, at the minimum, clarify their support for students who show support for people in Gaza and the West Bank.

I think behind the scenes, theres a lot of turmoil, a lot of division, he said. If this movement keeps up, then somethings gotta give.
A Philadelphia Common Pleas Court judge up for retention Nov. 7 was the subject of a scathing judicial conduct complaint filed by the Defender Association of Philadelphia in February, according to confidential records newly obtained by The Inquirer.

The judge, Anne Marie B. Coyle, is accused of biased and improper handling of a case, including threatening to hold both the prosecutor and defense lawyer in contempt; attempting to coerce the defense lawyer to recuse himself; and improperly offering the defendant leniency if he would drop a motion for Coyle to recuse herself. The documents also allege that Coyle endangered a defendant by revealing details of a sealed plea agreement.

Coyle, elected to the bench in 2013, is seeking her second 10-year term. Among the 10 Common Pleas Court judges and six Municipal Court judges seeking retention in November, Coyle is the only one rated as not recommended by the Philadelphia Bar Association.

She did not respond to an email and a phone message seeking comment. A spokesperson for the Philadelphia courts said in a statement: All allegations are highly confidential and must be fully investigated to determine their veracity. Judges are prohibited from publicly discussing these kinds of matters. The Defender Association declined to comment.

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Melissa L. Norton, chief counsel for the Judicial Board of Conduct of Pennsylvania, said the boards process is confidential and its timeline for investigations varies widely from case to case. The board receives 750 requests for investigation in a typical year, the vast majority of which are declined. In some cases, Norton noted, Judges can receive private discipline, or judges can make a determination that its time to retire. Only a handful of requests for investigation result in public action before the states Court of Judicial Discipline.

In Coyles matter, the confidential request for investigation centers on her handling of the case of Johnny Colon, which was detailed by The Inquirer in a 2019 series, The Probation Trap, which revealed that the sentences Coyle imposed on probation violators were the harshest of any Philadelphia judge.

Colon had been serving probation when he was arrested again during a drug raid on a relatives house. The charges in the new case were all eventually dismissed by a different judge. But, by then, Coyle had already required the assistant district attorney, under threat of contempt, to put on a hearing about whether the case amounted to a probation violation. She found Colon had violated his probation, and sentenced him to 5 to 14 years in prison.

The Pennsylvania Superior Court, in a 2021 opinion, overturned that punishment, saying he had not been given proper notice of all probation violations that Coyle considered in her sentencing. That, the court said, was a clear violation of Colons constitutional rights.

Unprompted, the court also said there might be reason to disqualify Coyle from handling the case, citing Coyles previous animus toward the district attorney as well as her treatment of Colon and defense counsel.

 READ MORE: The Probation Trap: How lenient sentences can lead to incarceration

Colons lawyer then asked her to recuse herself. But Coyle remained on the case. At a hearing in 2022, Coyle raised the subject of The Inquirer series, and accused Colon and his lawyer, Leonard Sosnov, of violating her protective order. She urged the public defender to withdraw from representing his client to avoid repercussions in the form of disciplinary action, in the form of contempt action, in the form of any myriad of possibilities that may exist.

At a second hearing, two days later, Coyle urged Colon to drop the recusal motion against his lawyers advice and to allow her to impose a new sentence that would make him eligible for parole. When he declined, she finally recused herself from the case.

The Superior Court has criticized Coyles apparent bias or abuse of discretion in at least five opinions other than the Colon case.

Thats incredibly unusual, said retired Common Pleas Court Judge Benjamin Lerner, particularly for someone on the bench for a single 10-year term. I can tell you this from experience: The appellate courts in Pennsylvania, in criminal matters in particular, do not go out of their way to specifically name or criticize trial judges. ... They really have to be fed up, it seems, with what theyre getting in terms of appeal from a particular trial judges courtroom.

In a 2018 opinion, the court found Coyle made a manifestly unreasonable decision to allow a jury to convict a man in absentia while he was hospitalized and intubated.

In a 2020 decision on the case of Aaron Lucky  who had been on Coyles probation for stealing $120 worth of body wash from a store  the court again cited her animus against the DA and her frustration with Lucky as leading her to abuse her authority. It found that there was reason to question whether Coyle was unbiased and impartial when she found Lucky in violation of probation for missing some appointments and failing a drug test  and sentenced him to up to seven years in state prison.

That same year, the Superior Court overturned a lengthy sentence imposed by Coyle on a defendant named Frank Brown. It noted: The record of the multiple sentencing hearings in this case is extraordinary. In addition to the errors of law, the record is rife with personal interactions, perceived slights, and sua sponte [on her own impetus} reconsiderations of sentence that, at the very least, created the appearance of personal bias.

Then, in 2022, it found she abused her discretion once again by denying Browns request that she recuse herself from his case.
Captain Paul Eidman, with Anglers for Offshore Wind and Menhaden Defenders and Captain of Reel Therapy, looking for any signs of whale presents during the Jersey Shore Whale watch in Belmar, N.J., on Friday, Oct. 13, 2023. Read more

Start your day with the Philly news you need and the stories you want all in one easy-to-read newsletter

Were still in luck with good weather. The sun will be out all day with a high of 78.

Our lead story focuses on a Jersey Shore boat captain who is in favor of wind energy and why it sometimes feels like hes the last fisherman with his politics.

 Taylor Allen (@TayImanAllen, morningnewsletter@inquirer.com)

If someone forwarded you this email, sign up for free here.

Capt. Paul Eidman, 63, wants you to know the whales are all right. Aboard the Jersey Girl off Point Pleasant Beach, he sees hundreds of them.

He knows the antis  those opposed to New Jerseys planned ocean wind turbines  have tried to link the whale deaths to preconstruction sonar mapping conducted by wind energy companies rsted and Atlantic Shores. These companies are planning wind farms that will place hundreds of turbines in the ocean off Jerseys coastal communities.

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Reminder: Several elected officials and residents are fighting the wind farms with news conferences, resolutions, and protests. Cape May County has filed lawsuits to stop the project, and members of Protect Our Coast New Jersey have gotten arrested in Ocean City trying to stop rsted from working on onshore construction linked to the farms.

Eidman, who has been following the science, wants you to know that wind energy will save the whales from climate change, not harm them.

In the midst of relentless political fights, Eidman has maintained his position. But hes increasingly alone.

In his own words: We had five years of support, then all of a sudden this became politicized. A lot of the fishermen are conservative. I have plenty of Republican friends.The knee-jerk, red-hat, far-right-wing types are prevalent in fishing. I lost everybody. ... Now everybody hates me.

Continue reading to dive into the world of whale boat politics.

Since Jonathan Holloway became president of Rutgers University in July 2020, hes had to navigate the pandemic, a faculty strike, and a vote of no confidence from the university senate.

The Inquirer sat down with the universitys first Black president to discuss the challenges hes faced, the decisions he made, and his path forward at the school.

The university senate voted no confidence in you last month. What was your reaction and is it going to change your course at all?

Its not going to change my course. ... I very much believe in the direction we are going as an institution.

For reasons I never quite understood, a dynamic developed where the same group of people would be asking the same questions [at university senate meetings] every single time and they were increasingly hostile. September of last year ... I gave a Senate address during which a member of the Senate called me a liar.

I was like, wow, this is not a constructive way to engage. They dont have to like my ideas but I have never lied to them.

You had a faculty strike last spring. How do you work on repairing those relationships?

We have 22 unions. We work beautifully with 17 of them. ... I know we are living in a moment of heightened union power. ... Were also in an era of heightened vitriol everywhere in our society. ... So the work of repair is really challenging.

Read on for the complete interview, including his defense of the unpopular decision to merge Rutgers medical schools.

What you should know today

 Trivia time

About how long did it take for Temple students to claim $200,000 worth of free Uber rides?

A) One week

B) One month

C) One semester

D) None of the above

Think you know? Check your answer.

What were...

 Watching: We finally have a new speaker of the House. Republicans unanimously elected Rep. Mike Johnson, a staunch conservative from Louisiana.

 Perusing: A vampire and paranormal art museum inside an antique dealers Bucks County home.

 Unscramble the anagram

Hint: It was a good run

BET CORRODE

Well select a reader at random to shout out here. Email us if you know the answer. Cheers to Lynn Major, who correctly guessed Wednesdays answer: Lauryn Hill.

Photo of the day

And thats all I have for you. Enjoy the day and Ill be back in your inbox tomorrow. 
Welcome back to work, 118th Congress! It seems Georgia's rotten peach Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a noted anti-semite, is back to casting stones. This time, Greene demands Congress censure Congressperson Rashida Tlaib, a Palestinian Muslim, for standing with anti-war demonstrators.

Greene made a motion declaring Representative Tlaib an anti-semitic insurrectionist for joining a peaceful demonstration. The same Marjorie Taylor Greene lept to infamy with claims California wildfires were being caused by "Jewish Space Lasers."

RawStory:

Greene brought the resolution to the House floor after Tlaib participated in a peaceful protest at the Capitol to call for a ceasefire in Gaza. "A resolution censuring Representative Rashida Tlaib for anti-Semitic activity, sympathizing with terrorist organizations, and leading an insurrection at the United States Capitol Complex," Greene said, reading her resolution. "Whereas by leading an anti-American and anti-Semitic insurrection on October 18, 2023, Rashida Tlaib followed Hezbollah's orders to carry out a day of unprecedented anger, following an explosion at a Gazan hospital, lying about Israel's responsibility for the attack, which United States intelligence agencies said was not perpetrated by Israel."

Even the new MAGA house isn't ready to take this one up just yet. The newly minted Speaker of the House has said the full house will take the resolution up "later."

It is not anti-semitic to disagree with the government of Israel. Greene's concern for the people of Israel is likely based on religious apocalypses and not a concern for the Jews manning spaceborne laser batteries.
Concerningly, more than one in four said their home was either not insured, they didn't know their sum-insured value, or didn't think their insurance would cover rebuilding costs in today's market, Sayers said. It's important to understand what you're covered for in your insurance policy. RACQ Home Insurance includes flood, storm, and hail as standard, but other insurers may be different. If you're in the unfortunate situation of being affected by a severe weather event, you can lodge your claim online; the earlier we receive it, the sooner we can assist.
Were excited to continue to add exceptional talent to our team and bolster our presence in the thriving Ohio market, said Mike Malouf, executive vice president at Alliant Employee Benefits. In the last six months, weve successfully welcomed eight experienced employee benefits consultants in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati. The ever-expanding horizon of new clients fuels our commitment to growth in Ohio.
For the insurers that still offer coverage in these high-risk regions, increased demand has led to higher rates. Many insurers now rely heavily on reinsurers to cover limits that exceed their risk tolerance. Some insurers are reducing coverage limits to minimize their exposure. The Insurance Information Institute predicted that property insurance rates in Florida could surge by as much as 40% in 2023. This, in turn, is expected to lead to a growing reliance on government insurance programs, such as the NFIP and Florida's Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, in the short to medium term.
There are two key points to our approach, and the first is we want to offer as much cover to as many people as possible. Swiss Res vision is to make the world more resilient, so being able to offer cover to people is what underpins our underwriting approach and philosophy.
The Republican party is happy because Mike Johnson is their new leader in the House. Mr. Johnson wants to make abortion, gay relationships, and medical marijuana illegal. He also intends to bring back prayer in public schools. In short, he wants to make America like a place called the Divine Republic of Gilead, where men are in charge and women spend a lot of time worshipping on their knees.

Sounds different, right? But some Republicans have noticed something surprising about Mr. Johnson. He doesn't seem to think the same way they do about people of different races. When Mr. Johnson saw a video of a man named George Floyd being murdered by a police officer, he said it made him really angry. He said he thought it was wrong and that it was a problem our country needs to fix.

This made Republicans upset. They started wondering if Mr. Johnson might be secretly agreeing with the Democrats, the bad people's political party, because he believes there is racism in America. Matt Walsh, a famous Republican, was really scared by what Mr. Johnson said. He said it sounded like Mr. Johnson was agreeing with what Democrats say about race!

Pedro Gonzalez, who is well-known among Republicans, wasn't happy with Mr. Johnson either. He said: "Sure, the new GOP House speaker has completely internalized left-wing racial libel about white supremacy and privilege. He also supports foreign aid."

Someone even asked if Mr. Johnson might be a secret Democrat!

Did you know Donald Trump, the man with the funny hair who used to be president, once said, "The Republicans like to eat their young?" Right now, the Republicans are licking Mr. Johnson to find out how he tastes.
The Federal Reserve Bank of New York announced it will release a nine-part blog series on the economic and financial impacts of extreme weather events in the Federal Reserves Second District.

Starting November 8, the Liberty Street Economics series will cover: physical and transition risks, flood risks, the impact of extreme weather events on small business owners and low- and moderate-income communities, and the impact of hurricanes.

With the frequency and ferocity of extreme weather eventsincluding flooding, storms, and heatwavesincreasing in recent years, the research will help to understand the effects of these climate events on the economy and financial markets, the Fed stated in its announcement.

The series will focus on the Second District, which encompasses New York, northern New Jersey, southwest Connecticut, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The individual blog posts are:

Comparing Physical Risk: The Feds Second District versus the Nation, uses publicly available data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency national risk index database to compare the climate-related risks faced by the Second District to risks faced by the nation. (November 8)

uses publicly available data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency national risk index database to compare the climate-related risks faced by the Second District to risks faced by the nation. (November 8) Transition Risks in the Feds Second District and the Nation, examines how transition risks affect different parts of the Second District, and how they differentially affect the area relative to the nation. (November 9)

examines how transition risks affect different parts of the Second District, and how they differentially affect the area relative to the nation. (November 9) Flood Map Inaccuracies in the Feds Second District, explores the prevalence of inaccuracies in flood maps in the Second District. (November 10)

explores the prevalence of inaccuracies in flood maps in the Second District. (November 10) How Do Banks Lend in Inaccurate Flood Zones in the Feds Second District?, uses data on the accuracy of flood maps to examine the impact of flood risk, particularly on bank lending in the Second District. (November 13)

uses data on the accuracy of flood maps to examine the impact of flood risk, particularly on bank lending in the Second District. (November 13) Flood Risk and Firm Location Decisions in the Feds Second District, discusses whether firms in the Second District consider flood risk when deciding where they conduct business, produce goods, or render services. (November 14)

discusses whether firms in the Second District consider flood risk when deciding where they conduct business, produce goods, or render services. (November 14) How Do Natural Disasters Affect Small Business Owners in the Feds Second District?, leverages the Federal Reserves Small Business Credit Survey to explore how small businesses in the Second District are impacted by natural disasters. (November 15)

leverages the Federal Reserves Small Business Credit Survey to explore how small businesses in the Second District are impacted by natural disasters. (November 15) Small Business Recovery after Natural Disasters in the Feds Second District, examines the resources that small businesses can rely on to cope with losses following disasters, such as access to disaster relief. (November 16)

examines the resources that small businesses can rely on to cope with losses following disasters, such as access to disaster relief. (November 16) Flood-Prone Basement Housing in New York City and the Impact to Low-and-Moderate Income Renters, examines how basement apartment renters are exposed to flood risk in New York City. (November 17)

examines how basement apartment renters are exposed to flood risk in New York City. (November 17) Banks versus Hurricanes, provides a case study on the impact of hurricanes on banks headquartered in Puerto Rico. (November 20)

Photo: Federal Reserve Bank of New York building. FRBNY photo.

Topics New York
The U.S. Department of Labor has obtained a consent injunction ordering a Rockland County roofing contractor and its principal to provide employees with fall protection equipment and make sure its used at all company worksites, as required by federal law.

The order finds that the company is exposing its workers to imminent danger of death or serious harm by allowing employees to do roofing work without fall protection.

Since 2019, the departments Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited ALJ Home Improvement Inc. multiple times for fall-related violations, including after company employees suffered fatal falls in 2019 and 2022. In May 2023, ALJ and its owner Jose Lema signed a settlement agreement with OSHA to resolve willful citations the agency issued in 2021. The settlement includes enhanced provisions for correcting and preventing fall hazards.

Entered in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York this week, the injunction requires ALJ and Lema to comply with the enhanced abatement provisions of the settlement agreement, including notifying OSHA of future company job sites, providing all supervisors with OSHA 30-hour safety training and all employees with OSHA 10-hour safety training, and retaining a qualified safety consultant to develop safety, health and disciplinary programs and conduct worksite inspections.

If ALJ or Lema fail to comply with the agreement, the department said it may file a contempt motion in federal court.

Falls remain the number one cause of death in construction work, accounting for 351 out of 1,008 construction fatalities in 2020. Reducing that deadly statistic is made more difficult by stubborn employers who knowingly and repeatedly fail to comply with common sense and legally required safeguards, said OSHA Regional Administrator Richard Mendelson in New York.

These settlement terms provide extra assurance of compliance, enforceable via contempt in district court, given this employers history, and underscore the Department of Labors commitment to pursuing effective and appropriate legal actions to help ensure that employers correct violations and take substantive steps to prevent them from recurring, said Regional Solicitor of Labor Jeffrey S. Rogoff in New York.

In a separate legal action, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York filed criminal charges against owner Jose Lema in July 2023 arising from the 2022 worker fatality.

OSHAs area office in Tarrytown conducted the original inspections.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor

Topics New York Contractors
Choice Financial Group announced it has acquired SIA Insurance in Manasquan, New Jersey.

The move marks Choices fourth acquisition in New Jersey and adds to Choices growing East Coast presence from New Hampshire to Florida.

SIA Insurance was formed in 2014, combining G.E. Smith Insurance Agency with Stanberry Insurance Agency.

Virginia Beach, Virginia-based Choice Financial Group is an insurance brokerage with institutional capital support from Northlane Capital Partners. Northlane, based in Bethesda, Maryland, is a middle-market private equity firm managing more than $1 billion of committed equity capital.

Choice is expanding its market presence through organic growth initiatives and targeted acquisitions. Bob Hilb, CEO of Choice Financial Group, founded The Hilb Group, which he grew with more than 60 mergers and acquisitions.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions New Jersey
A senior Ukrainian official said Russian cyberattacks are growing more sophisticated and have become daily occurrences aimed at disrupting vital infrastructure during wartime.

Deputy Foreign Minister Anton Demokhin, whos also the ministrys chief digital transformation officer, said hackers continue to target government bodies, security agencies and commercial businesses including financial institutions to try to disrupt services and acquire personal data. While Ukraine is largely able to deter the attempts, theyre effective in the sense that we do put in a lot of effort to prevent them, he said during an interview in Singapore.

In this sense, yes, they take our time and attention and resources, said Demokhin. Incidents have become more coordinated, with multiple hackers in various locations attacking different parts of the same infrastructure all at once, he said.

Hacking Groups, Including Some Tied to Russia, Are Attacking Israeli Websites

Other attackers have left sleeper viruses across information systems that become activated once an offensive operation begins, Demokhin said. When you put it all together, you realize this is a new level of sophistication.

Ukraine recorded 3,974 cyber incidents between January 2022  a month before Russia began its invasion  and September of this year, with most coming from Russian attackers, according to government data seen by Bloomberg.

Cyberattacks surged three-fold early in the invasion. There was a shift in the first half of this year toward espionage operations by military units trying to obtain information submitted to the courts regarding Russian spies and evidence of war crimes.

The Kremlin and Russias military regularly deny any role in hacking operations.

Demokhin said he held bilateral meetings with US Deputy National Security Advisor Anne Neuberger during his trip to Southeast Asia, where they discussed threat intelligence and cybersecurity technologies.

Photo: Photographer: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Russia Ukraine
When wailing sirens warn of incoming rockets from Gaza, workers at Israels Port of Ashdod stop operations within moments and quickly resume their work minutes later when the all clear is given.

Its an unusual way for a port to keep operational but it has become the only means to keep supply lines moving in time of war.

Israel has vowed to annihilate the Hamas militant group after its fighters stormed through Israeli towns from Gaza on Oct. 7, killing 1,400 people and seizing more than 220 hostages in the worst attack on civilians in Israels history.

Oil Tanker Sails to Israeli Red Sea Port to Avoid Conflict

A combination of practice drills, protective shelters and an Iron Dome air defense battery nearby have meant the government-owned port, which is 40 km (30 miles) from Gaza, can minimize any supply chain disruptions amid concerns over tightening supplies for the home front.

The entire port is dotted with protective shelters and the waiting time for staff under protection is around 10 minutes to ensure that even after a rocket falls there is no risk of falling shrapnel, port foreman Yigal Ben Kalifa told Reuters.

After that, everyone gets back to work, he said looking on as ships unloaded.

The Port of Ashdod is the artery of Israels economy and we are doing everything to ensure this wont be damaged.

While the port, which accounts for 40% of Israels total seabourne trade including imports and exports, has not had any direct rocket strikes so far it has taken an economic hit in recent weeks.

Last week, one of the first force majeures was declared on a shipment to Ashdod, with the vessel and cargo diverted to Haifa.

At least 20 ships have opted to divert from Ashdod to the northern Israeli port of Haifa in recent weeks, and the port has seen a 30% drop in volume week-on-week, said Shaul Schneider, chairman of the Port of Ashdods board of directors.

We believe that in a couple of weeks it will change and well get back to normal, he said, adding that they were talking to shipping companies and importers to reassure them.

Were continuing to function under fire, he said.

We have an Iron Dome that sits not far away  and it protects the city, the harbor, and hopefully the ships as well.

Schneider said that if there was an escalation around Israels northern border, the government had contingency plans for Ashdod to take on more trade from Haifa if needed.

Over 7,600 rockets have been fired towards Israel since Oct. 7 out of Gaza, according to Israeli government data, while there have been repeated clashes along the northern border.

Tens of rockets had targeted Ashdod, Arieh Itach, security officer with Ashdod municipality, said, declining to provide more details.

Our population is trained and knows what do to  but when rockets hit, we have to deal with this with speed, evacuate the wounded and deal with any damage.

Collateral Damage

The smaller port of Ashkelon, which is the closest to Gaza, has shut for the moment due to the situation. Ashdod and Haifa are the countrys biggest ports.

Robert Peters, with British maritime security company Ambrey, said it was advising clients that vessels can call at Ashdod.

We would advise that vessels wait further offshore than ordinarily given the risk of collateral damage at sea, he said.

So far, we have not seen any merchant vessels damaged while in the port, which we are assessing is likely due to Iron Dome, he said.

The dwell time for imports into Ashdod, which measure the amount of days a container takes to discharge, dropped to 1.8 days by Oct. 17 versus 3.4 days in September, according to analysis from supply chain platform project44.

War risk insurance rates have soared more than 10-fold in recent days to Israeli ports.

Insurance premiums are expected to remain high until a formal ceasefire is brokered, British maritime risk advisory and security company Dryad Global added.

Despite a slowdown in Hamas rocket strikes, the risk of collateral damage to Israeli port infrastructure remains substantial, said Noah Trowbridge of Dryad Global.

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul, Ammar Awad and Rami Amichay; editing by Angus MacSwan)

Photograph: Rockets are fired toward Israel from the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, on Monday, Oct. 23, 2023. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit, File)

Related:
U.S. penalties on shippers transporting Russian oil in breach of the G7s price cap could push more Russian cargoes onto vessels referred to as the ghost fleet and away from mainstream tankers, shipping sources and analysts told Reuters.

The cap bans Western companies from providing maritime services for Russian seaborne oil exports sold above $60 a barrel.

It was designed to keep oil flowing to markets while reducing Russias energy earnings that it can use to finance its war on Ukraine, but it has created a two-tier global shipping market.

One tier relies on vessels known as the ghost fleet that are past their traditional lifespans, meaning they are at greater risk of leaks and spills.

The other tier comprises mainstream vessels that use Western services for legal oil shipments, including from Russia under the terms of the price cap.

Most of the dozen industry insiders and analysts interviewed by Reuters said the United States enforcement of the price cap was likely to deter G7-owners from Russian crude trade, at least in the short term.

They cited the increased risks and costs of proving their cargoes are price-cap compliant and said the consequence could be that more ghost vessels are used for Russian shipments.

Western tanker owners have already reduced price cap shipments in recent months because of concerns a rally in global oil prices LCOc1 meant Russian crude values had exceeded the $60 a barrel limit.

Major shipowners including Teekay, Euronav and Maersk, either did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment or declined to comment.

The proportion of Russian crude exports loaded onto EU-based vessels fell to around 20% in October from 35% in June, said Ioannis Papadimitriou of analytics firm Vortexa.

On Oct. 12, the White House for the first time since the introduction of the price cap in December, imposed sanctions on two tankers  registered in Turkey and the United Arab Emirates  it said for carrying Russian oil in breach of the cap while using U.S. services.

Shipowners may also be discouraged from Russian voyages if energy majors tighten vessel requirements because of the sanctions.

Big oil companies, including Shell and BP, have already been avoiding tankers known to carry Russian crude, industry sources say.

U.S oil giant Exxon Mobil found itself caught up in the furore as it had previously chartered one of the tankers the U.S. imposed sanctions on  the Yasa Golden Bosphorus. There was no suggestion Exxon breached any regulations.

As some of the largest movers of oil globally, it would be a big disincentive to independent G-7 based owners to continue with price cap voyages if energy majors were to avoid them, Mike Salthouse of NorthStandard P&I club said.

Increased scrutiny needed to avoid problems could make costs prohibitive.

Everyone is going to be triple checking everything they are doing is above board. That comes at a cost, and that drives freight rates higher, energy consultants FGE told Reuters.

U.S. sanctions have already lifted freight rates, shipping sources told Reuters.

For instance, oil freight rates from Russias Baltic ports to India, had been particularly affected by the U.S. price cap action as India has been one of the main buyers of Russian fuel since the outbreak of the Ukraine war.

However, the impact of higher Russian freight rates has been masked by a global rise in freight costs as the potential for an escalating conflict in the Middle East added a risk premium to shipping.

More Ghosts?

In the short term, available ghost vessels could be in particular demand, making chartering them more expensive.

But in the longer term, increased purchases of secondhand vessels could swell the ghost fleet, Vortexas Papadimitriou said.

Ghost fleet vessels, which tend to be older, are covered by non-Western, rather than Western insurance, which the U.S. Treasury has warned about, given potential environmental risks.

These ships may be unable to pay the costs of accidents in which they are involved, including oil spills, which entail tremendous environmental damage and safety risks and associated costs, the Treasury said in an accompanying statement the day it imposed sanctions.

Shipowners will also weigh how serious sanctions on price-cap breaches are likely to be, industry insiders said.

Richard Bronze from Energy Aspects said the market has taken note that the imposition of the first sanctions focused on niche Russian crude grade Novy Port and the Pacific grade ESPO Blend, which are usually more expensive than Russias main export grade Urals.

The sanctions on the vessels involved in carrying Urals that sold above the cap could have sent a stronger signal, Bronze said.

Even so, some analysts say removing the price cap could be the way to really punish Russia.

Adi Imsirovic, director at consultant Surrey Clean Energy and a veteran oil trader, said that if the G7 really wanted to hurt Russia it should remove the cap, let the EU/UK sanctions work, and deploy secondary sanctions against those companies and countries that buy Russian oil.

But he said that was very unlikely because the price cap at least allows Russian oil to flow, thereby moderating international prices.

The Biden administration is already reeling from higher oil prices compounded by the unrest in Gaza, potentially spreading to a wider Middle Eastern conflict. The last thing the administration wants is even higher crude prices in the global market, leading to higher gasoline prices in the US, he said.

(Reporting by Natalie Grover and Robert Harvey in London; additional reporting by Julia Payne in Brussels and Andrea Shalal in Washington; editing by Barbara Lewis)

Topics USA Pricing Trends Russia
Estonias investigation into a damaged Baltic Sea telecoms cable will focus on the actions of a Chinese-owned vessel, the countrys prosecutor general said, after Finland blamed damage to a nearby pipeline on a ship.

Early on Oct. 8, a gas pipeline and a telecoms cable connecting Finland and Estonia under the Baltic Sea were broken. Another telecoms cable, between Sweden and Estonia, was also damaged that night.

Finnish investigators said on Tuesday that they had found a large anchor near the pipeline, which they believe was broken as a ship dragged the anchor along the seabed.

They named the Chinese-owned and Hong-Kong-flagged container carrier NewNew Polar Bear as the prime suspect.

Helsinki is investigating the pipeline incident, while Tallinn is looking into the cables incidents.

The spokesperson for Estonias general prosecutor said the investigation into the damage to the Estonia-Finland cable is moving its focus to the same vessel, despite the cable being located somewhat further from the pipeline.

The aim of the investigation is still to determine whether the vessel is responsible for damaging the telecommunications cables or not, and whether the damage was caused intentionally or by accident, he added.

Reuters reported that two vessels, NewNew Polar Bear and Russia-flagged Sevmorput, were present at all three sites around the time of the damage, according to data from MarineTraffic, a ship-tracking and maritime analytics provider.

I hope we will receive the necessary support from China to make constructive contact with the crew and owners of the ship, Estonias Foreign Affairs Minister Margus Tsahkna said on Tuesday.

On Monday, China called for an objective, fair and professional investigation into the gas pipeline damage.

It is understood that the Chinese vessel was normal in the relevant waters at the time of the incident, and no abnormalities were found due to the poor sea conditions at that time, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson told reporters.

(Reporting by Andrius Sytas in Vilnius; editing by Sharon Singleton)

Related:

Topics China
Hurricane Otis left a trail of destruction in Acapulco after tearing into the historic Mexican beach town with wind speeds of 165 miles (266 kilometers) per hour, smashing shops and wrecking apartment buildings and hotels.

State authorities have reported 27 deaths and four missing persons so far, Security Minister Rosa Icela Rodriguez said in a press conference Thursday.

Acapulco likely suffered an economic impact of $10 billion to $15 billion, according to Chuck Watson, a disaster modeler with Enki Research. There will be added losses because the regions high season for tourism is December to March.

The timing is bad, Watson said, adding that the rapid intensification of the tropical storm into a Category 5 hurricane left little time for preparations. Everybody got caught off guard.

Guerrero governor Evelyn Salgado said 80% of hotels had been affected. The hurricane has been absolutely devastating and people are working around the clock to restore electricity and communications, she said.

The hurricane didnt leave a single light post standing, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Thursday. The casualties are what hurts the most, because we can repair the material losses, he said.

AMLO, as the president is known, made the trip to Acapulco in a large SUV as airports remained closed on Wednesday. He had to cross part of the road on foot, along with officials including Defense Minister Luis Cresencio Sandoval, local media reported. He was back in Mexico City on Thursday for his regular morning press conference.

Access to the beach town was cut off by fallen trees and multiple landslides. Some roads were reopened by Thursday morning, the governor said.

Airport operator OMA said in a statement it was trying to reestablish operations and that no one was injured at its facilities as Otis made landfall. But Rodriguez, the security minister, said the airports operations are suspended until further notice.

Acapulco, once a highly popular beach destination that attracted international and local celebrities alike, has seen a dramatic drop in tourism mainly due to narco-related crime over the past decade.

Read more: Hurricane Otis Makes Landfall Near Acapulco as Category 5 Storm

Videos on social media emerging on Wednesday showed buildings and shops without roofs or windows. Fallen palm trees lined the streets alongside broken road signs and light posts.

The lobby of the iconic Princess Hotel had mattresses and wooden furniture stacked where the reception hall used to be, according to one video. A white SUV also made its way into the lobby of the hotel where aviation pioneer and businessman Howard Hughes spent the last few months of his life. The video also shows torn balconies, shattered windows and rain still pouring down on whats left of the main building.

I hid in the closet and started praying, said one woman in an Instagram video showing the hotels destruction. Lights went out at about 11pm. Everything is destroyed, she said.

Recorrido de algunas calles de Acapulco y pues, nada que agregar. Que tristeza

pic.twitter.com/B8HCxgOOYe

 Azucena Uresti (@azucenau) Oct. 25, 2023

About 40% of the towns electricity has been restored, state-owned utility CFE said Wednesday. America Movil SABs fixed phone unit Telcel on Thursday said it had restored its network in the area.

Otis came ashore at 12:25 a.m. local time as a Category 5 hurricane on the five-step Saffir-Simpson scale, with winds strong enough to tear homes and businesses apart.

Initial estimates say top winds increased faster than any other storm on record in the eastern Pacific, though post-season analysis may change that, Colorado State University hurricane researcher Phil Klotzbach said in an interview.

Photograph: Residents survey damage in the aftermath of Hurricane Otis in Xaltianguis, Guerrero state, Mexico, on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. Hurricane Otis made landfall on Wednesday in the resort city of Acapulco as a Category 4 storm, the strongest ever to strike Mexicos Pacific coast. Photographer: Alejandro Cegarra/Bloomberg

Copyright 2023 Bloomberg.

Topics Trends Catastrophe Natural Disasters Profit Loss Hurricane
The attempt by an off-duty pilot to shut down the engines of a U.S. airliner in midflight highlights the threat that insiders pose to aviation safety with their ability to go where passengers are prohibited.

Events like the one Sunday on a Horizon Air jetliner are very rare, but they are potentially devastating.

The captain and co-pilot prevented disaster by subduing the off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot who  from his perfect vantage point in the cockpit jump seat  tried to cut fuel to the engines.

Were just lucky he wasnt flying the plane when he decided to do this. Whats going to stop that? said Jon Loffi, a longtime law enforcement officer who teaches aviation security at Oklahoma State University and wrote a paper on identifying insider threats.

There is something of a see-something, say-something mindset in aviation, where employees are encouraged to voluntarily report anything that raises a safety concern, including suspicious behavior of colleagues. It`s not clear how often that happens, however  if ever.

The pilot who was arrested after Sunday`s flight didn`t appear to raise alarms. Neighbors and fellow members of a flying club where he was an instructor described him as a great guy who was obsessed with safety. The pilots who let him in the cockpit Sunday said they didn`t see anything out of the ordinary before takeoff.

Pilots are required to undergo psychological screening as part of their regularly scheduled medical exams. The pilot involved in Sunday`s incident got his most recent exam in September, according to Federal Aviation Administration records.

However, the pilot, Joseph David Emerson, told police that he had been depressed for about six months  starting long before his last medical exam  and was having a nervous breakdown, according to an FBI agent`s affidavit.

During FAA-required exams, pilots are supposed to go through an interview and report whether they have received psychiatric treatment and what medicines they take. The FBI agent`s affidavit didn`t indicate whether Emerson was being treated for depression.

The FAA says its approved medical examiners are trained to gauge a pilot`s mental health.

Airlines frequently conduct their own interviews that include a psychological evaluation, but most of those are to determine whether the pilot is a good fit for the company, not whether they are mentally unstable, said Jeffrey Price, an aviation-security expert at Metropolitan State University of Denver.

The Horizon close call could result in the re-examination of the practice of letting off-duty pilots or other airline employees sit in the cockpit jump seat.

Air travel changed after the 9/11 terror attacks. The Transportation Security Administration was created to screen passengers. Cockpit doors were hardened. For a time, jump-seat riders were banned.

Pilots fought to restore their ability to hitch a ride in the cockpit. Many of them commute to their jobs, and letting them use the jump seat means the airline doesn`t have to bump a passenger off a full flight to make room for a pilot.

Im afraid this will put that privilege in jeopardy now, said Ross Aimer, a retired airline pilot who is now CEO of an aviation-consulting firm. He said air travel won`t function  it will come to a grinding halt  if off-duty pilots can`t use the jump seat to commute to work.

Airlines must approve people to sit in the jump seat, and pilots wishing to do it must present their credentials to the crew. The captain can deny access.

Our flight crew vetting system is just that  its based on trust, Price said. We have to trust personnel to a certain extent, or the system doesnt work.

Loffi, the Oklahoma State professor, said banning pilots from the jump seat would be silly because a pilot intent on crashing the plane could simply wait until their turn to operate a flight.

Investigators concluded that is what happened on board a Germanwings plane in 2015. They determined that the co-pilot deliberately crashed the plane in the French Alps. The man had been treated for suicidal tendences but did not tell the airline.

A FedEx pilot riding on a cargo plane tried to kill the crew and crash the plane in 1994 but was stopped by the on-duty pilots. In 1987, a fired employee who still had his security badge hijacked a Pacific Southwest Airlines jet, which crashed in California, killing everyone on board.

On rare occasions, other employees including a mechanic have been accused of sabotaging planes.

Loffi said pilots could be subjected to more rigorous psychological examinations, as is often done with police officers, but thats not foolproof either.

I think we`re doing a pretty good job of managing the insider threat, he said. How often does this happen? Darn seldom. And it`s just so hard to predict this kind of behavior.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said the FAA will look into any safety considerations that come out of investigations of the Horizon Air incident.

Security experts say it would be difficult if not impossible to stop every determined criminal or terrorist who targets aviation. They say there are steps that could make such an attack more difficult, but they would come at a cost of time and money.

One possibility is to make airline and airport employees go through the same type of security checkpoints as passengers. Currently many of those insiders can go behind security perimeters with the right credentials.

Federal law requires that people seeking to work in secure areas of an airport must pass a criminal-records check and a security threat assessment that includes checking their names against a terrorism watch list. The vetting is conducted by the Transportation Security Administration.

The off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot who was arrested Sunday joined Horizon as a first officer or co-pilot in 2001. In 2012, he went to work at Virgin America, which was bought by Alaska in 2016. Emerson was promoted to captain in 2019.

Alaska Airlines said Emerson met all requirements for medical exams and at no point were his certifications denied, suspended or revoked.

Alaska said Tuesday that Emerson was relieved from all duties on Sunday, the day of the flight. His next flight had been planned for Thursday. The airline indicated it was talking to the pilots` union regarding his employment status. 

On Tuesday, Emerson was being held in the Multnomah County, Oregon, jail on one federal count of interfering with a flight crew and 83 state counts of attempted murder, a felony, 83 counts of misdemeanor reckless endangerment, and one count of endangering an aircraft, a felony. He was due to be arraigned Tuesday in Portland.

Emerson`s neighbors in Pleasant Hill, California, a suburb about 30 miles east of San Francisco, describe him as friendly, and officials of a local flying club say he is meticulous about safety.

No sign he was off. Nothing, Karen Yee, a neighbor whose grandchildren play with Emerson`s two elementary-school kids, told The (San Jose) Mercury News. He is everything you would want to have in a good neighbor. We see him over the fence and on walks. Great guy. Great family.

Allen Scott, former president of a flying club where Emerson served as a flight instructor several years ago, told the San Francisco Chronicle he has flown with Emerson and he was fanatical about safety.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Aviation
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on Monday proposed banning the cancer-causing chemical trichloroethylene, which can be found in consumer products including automobile brake cleaners, furniture care and arts and crafts spray coating.

The move would end a nearly four decade battle to ban the chemical known as TCE, which can cause sudden death or kidney cancer if a person is exposed to high levels of it, and other neurological harm even at lower exposure over a long period.

EPAs recent risk-evaluation studies found that as much as 250 million pounds of TCE are still produced in the United States annually. One of the first places the chemical raised concern was in Massachusetts, where it was linked to contaminated drinking water in the city of Woburn. Two locations there were ultimately designated as massive Superfund sites. Monday`s news conference was held at one of them, a location which now serves as a transportation center.

For far too long, TCE has left a toxic legacy in communities across America, said Michal Freedhoff, the EPAs assistant administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. Today, EPA is taking a major step to protect people from exposure to this cancer-causing chemical.

Massachusetts Sen. Edward Markey, who has led the effort to ban TCE, welcomed the move.

With this rule, we can see a future where we will no longer be manufacturing, processing and distributing a chemical known to be deadly, Markey said. We will no longer be exposing American families, communities and workers to a toxic chemical legacy that leaves questions, cancer and catastrophe in its wake.

Markey called the effort personal, citing his long-time work with Anne Anderson, a resident-turned-activist whose son Jimmy died in 1981 of leukemia.

Since Anne and I met in 1980, we have been partners in the effort to clean up Woburn, to get justice for her son, and to save other families from seeing their children fall sick as a result of contamination, Markey said. Thanks to the advocacy of Anne Anderson and the action of the EPA, the era of corporations using communities like Woburn as dumping grounds for toxic TCE is over. A 1982 lawsuit over the contaminated water supply involved eight Woburn families, including the Andersons. The case garnered national attention and led to the book and movie titled A Civil Action.

The American Chemistry Council said in a statement that TCE has several important uses in packaging and in formulating products. The proposed rule is inconsistent with the underlying science, the council said, calling on the EPA to avoid unnecessarily restricting valuable industrial uses for the chemical.

EPA must base its risk management proposals on best available science, including accurate assessments of exposure, the industry group said. Where uses of chemistries have decreased over time, this must be reflected in EPAs underlying risk assessment, because decreased use reduces potential exposure.

Meanwhile, environmental groups praised the proposed rule, which would take effect in a year.

EPA followed the science, listened to impacted communities, and proposed one of the strongest chemical regulations in recent history, Earthjustice Senior Attorney Jonathan Kalmuss-Katz said in a statement. Some chemicals are simply too harmful to remain on the market.

TCE is used to make refrigerants and in solvents that remove grease from metal parts. It is also used in carpet cleaners, laundry spot removers and hoof polish for horses. The chemical presents an unreasonable risk of injury to health or the environment in 52 of 54 uses in industrial and consumer products, the EPA has found.

I am overwhelmed that all of you are here to acknowledge everything that has happened and everything that was bad has turned good, Anderson said. I owe so much to you people to keep the fight going, making sure that everybody is safe and that toxic chemicals like TCE will no longer exist.

The proposed ban stems from a major expansion of EPA`s regulatory powers under a landmark 2016 law that overhauled rules governing tens of thousands of toxic chemicals in everyday products, from household cleaners to clothing and furniture.

The statute authorized new rules for tens of thousands of toxic chemicals found in everyday products, including substances such as asbestos and TCE, that for decades have been known to cause cancer but were largely unregulated under federal law. Known as the Frank Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act, the law was intended to clear up a hodgepodge of state rules governing chemicals and to update the Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976.

The 2016 law required the EPA to evaluate chemicals and put in place protections against unreasonable risks. The agency moved to ban asbestos last year and has also proposed banning methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and carbon tetrachloride.

Associated Press writer Matthew Daly in Washington contributed to this report.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Pollution Chemicals
No actor in Buffalo has appeared in more theaters and in more different kinds of plays than Brian LaTulip, Buffalo News theater critic Terry Doran wrote in 1989. He has performed in everything from community theater to some of the finest dramatic productions around.

Particularly successful in his portrayals of feisty old men, Mr. LaTulip won an Artie Award as Best Supporting Actor for his 1994 role as the Captain in Sean OCaseys Juno and the Paycock at the Irish Classical Theater Company, and got rave reviews and an Artie nomination as the father in Hugh Leonards play Da at the ICTC in 1995.

With his craggy face and commanding, rough-hewn voice, his presence can be powerful, reviewer Jim Bisco wrote in The News in 1981, praising Mr. LaTulips performance in the title role in Samuel Becketts Krapps Last Tape.

His most popular efforts, though, were in dinner theater productions of Neil Simon comedies, especially as slovenly Oscar Madison opposite John Buscaglias uptight Felix Unger in The Odd Couple, which they revived several times for holdover engagements.

Mr. LaTulip died Oct. 18 after a long period of declining health. He was 89.

As a boy in Oswego, Brian J. LaTulip won talent contests as a drummer and played in bands in high school. Drafted into the Army while studying at what was then Oswego State Teachers College, he hoped to play in an Army band, but didnt find an opening. Instead, he discovered that he enjoyed entertaining fellow soldiers as an actor.

He returned to Oswego to complete his bachelors degree, then spent several years in Chicago working for Huron Cement Co. and drumming with jazz bands.

After Mr. LaTulip was transferred to Buffalo in the 1960s as superintendent of a cement plant here, he began acting in community theater. He left Huron after his responsibilities conflicted with a production of The Rainmaker. He found a more accommodating job at the historic Eagle House restaurant in Williamsville.

(Owner) Jack Hanny was one of my best friends, Mr. LaTulip said earlier this year, speaking with actor Peter Palmisano for a podcast. I was bartending, at first. I told Hanny I had to leave one night because Im doing a play. Im an actor, not a bartender. And he said, Well work it out.

He became daytime manager and played drums in Charlie Mussens Dixieland groups and with other jazz bands when he wasnt acting. Stuck at the Eagle House during the Blizzard of 77, he trudged across Main Street to another restaurant, the Red Carpet, and sat in with a band playing there for stranded patrons.

At the same time, Mr. LaTulip was getting rave notices for his serious roles, such as King Henry I in James Goldmans The Lion in Winter. The review by Jack Foran in The News called him a beautifully human king.

He could give a dry line with the best, said David Lamb, longtime artistic director at the Kavinoky Theatre. They appeared together in 1981 in the first production staged in the refurbished playhouse at then-DYouville College  Anthony Shaffers Sleuth.

He returned numerous times to the Kavinoky during the 1980s and earned his Actors Equity card when he landed a succession of small roles at the citys leading venue, the Studio Arena.

Mr. LaTulip was married in 1984 to Nancy L. Kotaska, a banker whom he met several years earlier when both were in a production of the musical Funny Girl, where he played Fanny Brices husband, Nicky Arnstein.

How could you not feel for a man who came in in a tuxedo every night? she said.

In 1988, they bought the Klondike Saloon on Genesee Street in Bowmansville and made it famous as the Home of the Buffalo Burger.

I got on to buffalo meat, he told Buffalo News reporter Bob Buyer in 1989, because after three heart attacks, I must avoid cholesterol, and I love meat.

Mr. LaTulip also enhanced the restaurants Gold Rush theme by reciting The Cremation of Sam McGee and other poems of the Yukon by Robert W. Service.

By then, he had begun to enjoy his greatest artistic successes with the Irish Classical Theater Company.

He had a specific affinity for Irish roles, said Vincent ONeill, the ICTCs retired artistic director. He really had an instinct for them. He was very witty, very charming, always a glint in his eye, a mischievous glint.

The Klondike closed in 1997. Health concerns curtailed his work on stage a few years later, although he appeared occasionally as a historic reenactor.

Mr. LaTulip portrayed Jonas Williams, the founder of Williamsville, and wrote a monologue for him. He helped the Hull Family Home and Farmstead raise funds by impersonating Revolutionary War veteran Warren Hull, who built the house.

In addition to his wife, survivors include three daughters, Colette Badger, Yvette Sullivan and Suzette R. Cappell; a son, Harold J. Cappell; two brothers, David Shannon and Kevin; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandson.

A Mass of Christian Burial was offered Oct. 28 in Christ the King Catholic Church, 30 Lamarck Drive, Snyder.
Sam Bankman-Fried could take the stand at his fraud trial as soon as Thursday, when prosecutors are set to finish presenting their case accusing the founder of now-bankrupt cryptocurrency exchange FTX of stealing billions of dollars from customers.

Defense lawyer Mark Cohen said in a court hearing Oct. 25 that Bankman-Fried would testify in his own defense, a risky move that will give prosecutors the chance to cross-examine the 31-year-old former billionaire about testimony from former close colleagues that he directed them to commit crimes.

Legal experts said Bankman-Fried has little to lose by bucking conventional wisdom and testifying, given weeks of testimony against him by insiders painting an unflattering portrait of his character.

He has already taken an unusual approach for a criminal defendant. Instead of laying low after he was charged, he published blog posts on his view of what went wrong and met with several journalists.

Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty and maintained that while he made mistakes running FTX, he never intended to steal funds. His lawyers have said three of his former colleagues, who have pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with prosecutors, tailored their testimony to implicate Bankman-Fried in the hopes of receiving lenient sentences.

Prosecutors say Bankman-Fried used the misappropriated funds to prop up his crypto-focused hedge fund, Alameda Research, make speculative venture investments, and donate more than $100 million to U.S. political campaigns. They say Alameda looted FTX funds through special trading privileges on the exchange.

Prosecutors expect to call just one more witness, FBI agent Mark Troiano, when the trial resumes in federal court in Manhattan after a week-long break. Cohen said the defense plans to call three brief witnesses before Bankman-Fried takes the stand.

Cohen told the U.S. district judge he wanted to ask Bankman-Fried about lawyers involvement in structuring loans from Alameda to FTX executives, which prosecutors say was a key way the defendant and others took funds from unwitting customers.

But Cohen said Bankman-Frieds knowledge that lawyers were involved in structuring and documenting the loans would be probative of his good faith belief that there was nothing inappropriate.

Prosecutors may ask Bankman-Fried about why he did not disclose Alamedas privileges to FTX customers or equity investors, and why he posted on social media in the midst of a wave of customer withdrawals last November that FTX was fine when he knew it was short billions of dollars in funds.

In the letter, Cohen said Bankman-Fried reserves the right to decide not to testify.

Cohen said on an earlier conference call the defense could finish presenting its case by Friday, paving the way for closing arguments and jury deliberations next week. If convicted, Bankman-Fried could face decades in prison.

Photo: FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried leaves Manhattan federal court in June. (AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews)

Topics Fraud
The toll from a series of crashes on a Louisiana interstate rose to eight dead and 63 injured Tuesday evening, a day after a super fog of marsh fire smoke and dense fog snared more than 160 vehicles in the fiery pileup, authorities said.

Lance Scott was among the many drivers caught in the wreckage on Interstate 55 west of New Orleans. The 51-year-old had been driving his daughter to the airport Monday morning when the fog thickened like a white-out on a ski slope. He slammed on his brakes, narrowly avoiding the cars in front of him while hearing the most horrendous clank of metal behind him.

It was, Bang. Bang. Bang.` It just went on for probably 45 seconds, Scott said. As every second went by the clanking of the metal got a little bit fainter, which told me it was backing up, so I knew there was layers and layers of collisions.

Scott turned to his 24-year-old daughter, an intensive care unit nurse, and said to her, Theres going to be a lot of people who need help and I need you to go out and do what you do.

Amid the ominous crackling of flames in the wreckage, the fog slowly lifted afterward to reveal the extent of the pileup. Scott and his daughter helped people out of their cars, some with noticeably broken collarbones. One had to wait for first responders to bring the Jaws of Life.

An estimated 168 vehicles were involved in the crashes, Louisiana State Police said. By Tuesday evening the number of fatalities had increased from seven to eight and the number of reported injured more than doubled, Louisiana State Police said in a news release.

At least 63 people were injured, with injuries ranging from minor to critical, others sought medical aid on their own, authorities said in the update.

It is unclear whether it was the most significant crash ever handled by Louisiana State Police, given the number of vehicles and fatalities involved, state police Sgt. Kate Stegall told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

However, I can tell you that this is an extensive and devastating incident, resulting in loss of lives and profound repercussions for both the community and first responders, Stegall said.

The crashes began before 9 a.m. Monday along a one-mile (1.6-kilometer) stretch of the elevated interstate, which passes over swamp and open water between Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas, State Police Sgt. Kate Stegall said in a news briefing.

The crashes left a long stretch of mangled and scorched cars, trucks and tractor- trailers. Crushed vehicles were piled atop each other, blackened by flames. Some people got out of their vehicles and stood on the side of the road or on the roofs of their cars looking on in disbelief at the disaster. Others cried out for help.

Scott said there was great camaraderie as people sprang into action, helping others. With drivers warning others about a nearby fire from the crash, people moved away from the wreckage. They waited for 45 minutes for paramedics to reach them and for transportation off the bridge.

Clarencia Patterson Reed, 46, was driving to Manchac with her wife and niece and saw people waving for her to stop, but once she stopped, two other vehicles hit her car from behind and the side, she told The Associated Press. Patterson Reed escaped from her side of the car, but her wife was pinned inside, her side and a leg injured. Others stepped in to help, she said.

I just thank God, she said. There was a casualty a few cars ahead of us.

Another driver Christopher Coll, said he was already braking when a pickup truck drove up on top of my work trailer and took me for a ride.

Coll could smell smoke as he heard cars crashing and tires popping. He was able to kick open his passenger door to escape and then helped others __ pulling one person out a car window.

School buses were summoned to transport stranded motorists from the accident sites.

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards asked for prayers for those hurt and killed Monday and issued a call for blood donors.

Crews removed the last vehicles Tuesday afternoon and began a cleanup of debris, diesel and other chemicals littering the area, authorities said. Additionally, the states transportation department identified multiple areas requiring bridge repairs as inspections continued.

The National Weather Service said there were multiple wetland fires in the region Monday and smoke from the fires mixed with fog to create a super fog.

Parts of the highway reopened Tuesday afternoon. But hazardous driving conditions Tuesday morning prompted several schools in the area to close or delay openings as tow trucks continued to haul debris off of the interstate.

Copyright 2023 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Louisiana
AgentSync doubles down on building the most modern and connected producer management and compliance solutions to provide flexibility in distribution channels for carriers, agencies, and MGAs

DENVER, CO, October 26, 2023  AgentSync, the leader in modern insurance infrastructure, today announced an additional $50 million fundraise, bringing the companys total funding to date to $161 million. The round was co-led by existing investors Craft Ventures and Valor Ventures. Since raising the Series B in Q4 2022, AgentSync has seen 3x ARR growth and more than 2x customer growth. AgentSync works with more than 200 insurance companies spanning carriers, MGAs, and agencies, covering all lines of insurance.

AgentSync has always stood out from competitors thanks to its flexible cloud-native solutions, ability to solve complex, entrenched issues, and strong customer success. This round of capital allows AgentSync to double down delivering best-in-class products for the nations largest and most respected carriers.

AgentSync has become core infrastructure for hundreds of insurance companies, helping them scale distribution and reduce costs, said Brian Murray, Partner at Craft Ventures. We are excited to deepen our partnership with the AgentSync team as they continue to upgrade the resilience and efficiency of the insurance industry.

AgentSyncs infrastructure solves a vital problem in the insurance industry: effective and efficient distribution. By establishing flexible, scalable connections between insurance distributors and underwriters, AgentSync powers and streamlines the delivery of insurance products. The company continues to aggressively build and innovate with a focus on SaaS and API solutions that create data visibility and efficiencies for insurers, and exceptional experiences for agents and brokers.

Given the current headwinds sectors of the insurance industry are facing, investing in modern, scalable infrastructure to manage distribution has never been more important. With AgentSync, customers have the flexibility to quickly and intelligently ramp distribution channels up or down as needed. This drives massive distribution channel-related cost savings when efficiently executed through software, said co-founder and CEO Niji Sabharwal. Helping our customers adapt quickly and manage risk and expenses during tough market conditions is extremely rewarding  especially knowing that theyre building bulletproof distribution infrastructure for when the markets improve.

AgentSync solves a critical, ubiquitous and long neglected problem in the insurance Industry. This infusion of capital ensures they have the platform and support needed to move up market to larger and more complex carrier requirements and continue to charge ahead solving the extremely complex problems plaguing the insurance industry today, said Mike Rosenbaum, AgentSync board member and CEO of leading insurance software, Guidewire.

About AgentSync

AgentSync builds modern insurance infrastructure that connects carriers, agencies, MGAs, and producers. With customer-centric design, seamless APIs, automation, and unparalleled service, AgentSyncs solutions provide data intelligence and streamlined onboarding and compliance management processes that reduce costs, increase efficiency, and get producers ready to sell in hours instead of weeks. Founded in 2018 by Niranjan Niji Sabharwal and Jenn Knight, and headquartered in Denver, CO, AgentSync has been recognized as one of Denvers Best Places to Work, a Forbes Magazine Cloud 100 Rising Star, and as an Insurtech Insights Future 50 winner, and was ranked 65 in Forbes  Americas Best Startup Employers 2023. To learn more, visit www.agentsync.io.

Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Carriers Agencies Funding
Source: McAlinden Research

October 26, 2023 (Investorideas.com Newswire) McAlinden Research shares its thoughts on the drone industry and defense stocks as the U.S. boasts development in light of current events in the Middle East.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Army moved forward on a plan to develop gear to arm small commercial drones for combat. According to Defense One, two undisclosed companies will demonstrate payload mechanisms for dropping a selection of munitions that troops would have readily available, such as 40mm or 60mm grenades, within eight to twelve months' time.

New types of augmented first-person view (FPV) drones could supplement the U.S. army's current repertoire of loitering munitions, providing much cheaper options than what is currently used. As an example, an advanced drone like the Switchblade 300, manufactured by AeroVironment, can cost $6,000 per unit, while improvised FPV drones being utilized on both sides of the Russo-Ukrainian war can deal similar damage to targets at a cost of just $200 - $400.

In generating our in-depth coverage of the war in Ukraine and its implications for investors, MRP has viewed video footage from the battlefield dominated by clips of small kamikaze drones flying directly into armored vehicles, artillery launchers, and other expensive equipment, as well as dropping grenades into trenches and neutralizing the defensive advantage these fortifications can provide. These drones punch well above what their cost would suggest, damaging or completely destroying multimillion-dollar tanks.

We've more recently seen this strategy picked up by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, utilizing commercial-style copter drones to target Israeli Merkava tanks with mortar rounds. During the initial wave of Hamas's sneak attack against Israel on October 7, one of these drones dropped a PG-7VR tandem HEAT RPG onto the turret of a Merkava Mk 4, damaging the tank beyond repair.

The scope of Hamas's drone-based combat capabilities is unknown but is likely limited. Lebanon's Hezbollah militant group, which is allied with Hamas but considered much larger and more well-armed, was estimated to have access to approximately 2,000 drones in 2021, according to Israeli think tank Alma. These would not only include quad-copter-style commercial drones but augmented Shahid drones built by Iran, which have become popular weapons in the Russian military as well. Last August, the Washington Post reported that Russia is targeting the domestic production of 6,000 Shahed variant drones (called Geran-2 by Russia) by summer 2025, compounding at least 400 drones it had previously purchased from Tehran.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is now in the process of adopting its first-ever counter-drone doctrine, expected to be established by the end of the year. Not only will the U.S. military need to develop a novel strategy to weaponize FPV drone-based munitions systems, it will need to formulate strategies to counter them as well. Whether that means shooting down high-tech, long-range Shahed drones or disabling the use of improvised quadcopters, all efforts will undoubtedly require billions of Dollars in funding from the Pentagon.

As part of the U.S. Army's low, slow, small-unmanned aircraft Integrated Defeat System, called LIDS for short, Raytheon Technologies was awarded a $237 million contract in April to support U.S. Army Central Command with Ku-band Radio Frequency Sensors (KuRFS) and Coyote effectors to detect and neutralize unmanned aircraft. That funding was in addition to an initial contract awarded in October 2022, worth $207 million, to equip two U.S. Army divisions with the anti-drone systems.

Leonardo DRS has also been awarded several hundred million dollars in contracts to develop counter-drone technologies since 2017, and has said that the Army wants to equip nine divisions with five sets of mobile LIDS each, beginning the fielding systems next year. The Army's Joint Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Office (JCO) is in charge of developing the military's response to class-one, -two, and -three drones, ranging from 250 grams to over 1,000 pounds, and has begun the testing of Northrop Grumman's Agnostic Gun Truck (AGT). However, Defense One notes that the AGT is an experimental design not in serial production for Northrop Grumman and has faced delays due to procurement issues.

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Vancouver, British Columbia - October 26, 2023 (Newsfile Corp.) (Investorideas.com Newswire) Kingsmen Resources Ltd. (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) ("Kingsmen" or the "Company") is pleased to report initial results from its ongoing regional surface sampling program on the Las Coloradas project, located 30km from Hildago de Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico. Portions of the Solidad structure were mined by ASARCO (American Smelting and Refining Company), the U.S. based subsidiary of Grupo Mexico in the period 1944 to 1952. Kingsmen's current regional sampling program is focused on areas outside of the structure historically mined by ASARCO.

The Las Coloradas mineralization is located on the southeast flank of a prominent aeromagnetic high interpreted to be a buried felsic intrusive body. The felsic intrusives associated with the Soledad and Soledad II structures are likely linked to this body and the setting is favourable for porphyry, skarn and epithermal vein mineralization.

Regional prospecting and sampling to the west, north and northeast of the Solidad structures has identified elevated to anomalous silver values associated with a previously unrecognized approximately 2,500 meter long, NE-trending zone of structures (Figure 1). As well, a number of other sites with anomalous silver values were identified.

Pathfinder element concentrations occurring in variable combinations in the areas of interest include Au, As, Sb, Pb, Zn, Cu, Hg, Mo, Te and Tl. High pathfinder element concentrations are interpreted to reflect proximity to mineralizing fluid flow. The different combinations of pathfinder elements likely represent different stages or pulses of mineralization. Their distributions provide evidence for district-wide, structurally controlled mineralization.

Scott Emerson, President commented: "This data provides valuable information as we work on interpreting the controls on mineralization, and planning future drill programs. New and extensive areas of structures and showings have been identified. Importantly, the pathfinder elements are indicating potential for district-wide mineralization."

Field Update

Kingsmen's field crews are currently active on the project following up the very positive results from the summer field program. Additional results will be released once received and assessed. Kingsmen has a high level of optimism for additional discoveries in these previously unexplored areas.

Figure 1

Laboratory

All samples were analyzed by ALS Global in Chihuahua, Mexico, an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 certified laboratory. Eighty samples were analyzed by ICP-MS (51 elements). Over grade Ag, Au, Pb and Zn were assayed.

Qualified Person

Kieran Downes, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure set out in this news release.

About Kingsmen Resources

In line with Kingsmen's organic-growth strategy, the Company's focus is on exploration and development, and is currently focused on district-scale exploration for high -margin metallic mineral deposits in the prolific mining districts of Parral Mexico. In addition, the Company has a 1% NSR on the Los Ricos North project in Mexico operated by GoGold Resources Inc. The Company's leaders have extensive experience in the mining and financial sectors. Kingsmen is a publicly-traded company (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia.

On behalf of the Board, Signed: "Scott Emerson"

Scott Emerson,

President & CEO Phone:

6046859316

Email: se@kingsmenresources.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statement:

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements regarding the completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project and receipt of regulatory approval, are forward-looking statements. Although Kingsmen believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since Kingsmen can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. 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, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in Kingsmen's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators, and assumptions made with regard to: Kingsmen's ability to make the required payments under the definitive agreements; and Kingsmen's ability to secure the necessary regulatory approvals. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Kingsmen's expectations include risks associated with the business of Kingsmen; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions to the closing of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; non-completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; risks related to exploration and potential development of the Las Coloradas Project; business and economic conditions in the mining industry generally; fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time and additional risks identified in Kingsmen's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Kingsmen does not undertake any obligation to update forward looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements

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Does rural Ireland run on milk? To a large extent, according to Noel Murphy, theres no doubt about it.

The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association dairy chairman, who farms in Milltown, Co Kerry, says that if one is to look at certain areas  particularly in the south of the country  the positive impact of dairy farm concentration and big processors presence is clear.

According to recent CSO figures, Cork and Kerry accounted for 31%  1.6bn  of Irish milk output in 2022, making it the largest milk-producing region in the state.

Milk generated 55% of the regions agricultural output last year.

Mr Murphy said he wouldnt like to imagine what the smaller towns and villages around the big milk-producing regions would look like without dairy, there wouldnt be a whole pile without it.

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There is the direct impact but also the spin-off, the money thats generated is spent in the local shops, many of which otherwise may not exist either in a lot of areas in rural Ireland without farmers buying their goods and services there.

Where there arent communities that have thriving tourism industries, dairy contributes a lot, and keeps the communities together, keeps them there and stops the area from losing people, Mr Murphy added.

There are the figures to show dairys importance to Irelands economy too.

Tirlan, formerly Glanbia Ireland and Glanbia Co-op, is one business that has quantified what its economic activity in 2022 was worth.

Tirlan published an economic impact study by EY showing that the co-op generated total economy activity of 5.5bn in 2022 and supported over 19,200 direct and indirect jobs through its operations in Ireland.

These figures underpin the relevance and importance of agriculture as Irelands largest indigenous industry and as a significant driver of employment in rural areas, Tirlan said.

Jim Bergin, chief executive of Tirlan.

Tirlans chief executive Jim Bergin said that the co-op is conscious of the impact our organisation has on the national and rural economies.

There is a great responsibility on policymakers, co-op leaders and our farmers to work positively together and we are determined to identify the opportunities to protect this great industry and to ensure the sustainability of our farm families into the future, Mr Bergin said.

The industry has undergone many changes over the decades, and will continue to do so. However, it appears it always has been a big feature of rural life, and that is expected to remain the case.

Something that has been shown in research is that the Irish love of dairy products has always been there and is, in fact, very ancient, and the suitability of the island for dairy farming was recognised early in prehistory, according to a report.

This was a conclusion drawn from research published in 2015 ahead of the lifting of milk quotas in Europe in the Journal of Environmental Archaeology that shows dairying on the island of Ireland goes back approximately 6,000 years.

This was revealed through traces of ancient dairy fats found in pots dating to around 4,000 to 2,500 BC.

Dr Jessica Smyth of Bristols School of Chemistry analysed nearly 500 pots from the Neolithic, the period when people switched from hunting and gathering to farming.

In Britain and Ireland, this change occurred around 4,000 BC, more than 1,000 years later than on the Continent.

Dr Smyth, who led the study, said: We know from previous research that dairying was an important part of many early farming economies, but what was a big surprise was the prevalence of dairy residues in Irish pots.

It looks to have been a very important food source.

View of River Lee at Leemount, Co. Cork circa. 1935.

According to Dr Smyth, settlements were small in the Irish Neolithic, usually one or two houses.

Its likely that early farming groups had just one or two animals supporting the household with their products, which were perhaps part of a wider community herd.

Dr Smyth described those as a very determined group of pioneer farmers, setting up everything from scratch, and taking a significant gamble with their livelihoods and those of their dependants.

The gambles paid off.

After much evolvement, there is a substantial number of jobs supported by the Irish dairy sector now in 2023, something Noel Murphy said must be appreciated by policymakers.

Mr Murphy said that if one was to tell any Government that theres an employer whod bring in that many jobs to the state, they wouldnt turn up their nose at it  itd be a big win.

From that point of view, its a positive story the last number of years that since 2015 when quotas went, weve increased production from 5bn litres up to 9bn litres, Mr Murphy said.

That extra value alone, the value of exports, all that money that comes into rural areas is spent in the rural areas so from that point of view, it is a big benefit.

Mr Murphy says that the effort that goes into keeping young people in the dairy sector is integral to the future of rural communities.

He worries about the challenges that exist, and that Government seems to have a policy not to incentivise into dairying as far as I can see in the last number of years.

Cattle in pens at Midleton Fair. Picture taken from gates of Midleton hospital in 1931.

He adds: There seems to be an anti-dairy sentiment.

This may appear surprising to some, with Teagasc in its recently published National Farm Survey 2022 Sustainability Report saying that dairy farms remain an economic powerhouse in Irish agriculture.

Average economic returns per hectare in dairy tend to be multiples of those in the other farm systems in Ireland and the gap between dairy and the other farm systems has tended to widen since the EU decided to eliminate the milk quota system, Teagasc economists said in the report.

The report indicates that this gap widened further in 2022, which saw a significant spike in milk prices, due to the slow growth in milk production globally, allied with strong international dairy demand.

Overall, 93% of dairy farms were economically viable in 2022, and average income per labour unit for dairy farms in 2022 was 109,003.

Dairy also continues to have a stronger performance in terms of social sustainability compared to other farm systems, according to Teagasc.

Mr Murphy worries that due to policy coming down the line, dairys strong position  as shown above  could be under threat.

For example, we see where the reduction in the nitrates and the challenges thats going to bring, you could lose a lot of cows, a lot of production, and theres a knock-on effect to the economy, Mr Murphy said. I would be worried that the direction of travel were going in is not positive.

There is also the concern around milk price.

In August, analysis by the ICMSA showed that milk price drops so far this year would "wipe 2bn from dairy farmers' revenues in 2023" and in turn have "reduced spending in rural communities by possibly double that amount".

This is going to have a "very serious impact" not only on dairy farmers themselves, "but on the wider rural economy in 2023 and well into 2024" according to ICMSA president Pat McCormack.

While prices have held this month, 2023 has seen severe cuts to milk price paid to farmers, Mr McCormack said, so it "comes as no surprise to see the spending power of dairy farmers dramatically deteriorate, and this is being reported by businesses across rural communities that provide goods and services to dairy farmers and the wider dairy industry".

"From concrete to shed suppliers, to milking equipment to farm machinery, the reports coming back are that dairy farmers have stopped buying and investing. Only the very basics are being purchased and this is going to have a dramatic impact on the local economy," the ICMSA warned.

The ICMSA analysis results show the "dramatic drops" in milk values with almost 2bn less expected to be paid to dairy farmers in 2023 versus 2022.

The analysis used an average milk price of 59c per litre for 2022 and an expected average price of 37c per litre for 2023.

Despite all this, when asked if he sees a positive future for dairy ahead, Noel Murphy said: Fundamentally, I do.

There is demand for our product out there, that wont change. We have a very sustainable product, he said.

I would be positive enough that we are sustainable and that we are worth our weight in the economy of the country.

It definitely is an industry worth fighting for, and worth keeping.
Look up the website of pianist Sultan Stevenson, one of British jazzs most exciting and original new talents, and you will find the usual menu of links to his biography, gigs, news, reviews, interviews and debut album, released in March of this year. What you dont expect to discover is a heading titled Hats.

Featuring the 22-year-old Londoner modelling his own range of bucket hats  in vibrant West African colours and bold geometric patterns  that he himself has created, the webpage explains that in the first Covid lockdown of 2020 Stevenson wanted to find a new and different kind of bucket hat. After exploring various shops and struggling to find an original and exciting design, I decided to learn how to make my own, he writes.

His fabrics came from clothes his mother and other relatives were clearing out, he taught himself how to hand sew and use a sewing machine, and he worked on various patterns. Gradually his hats started to take shape. He also got quicker at making them. At one point he had so many that he started to sell them on Etsy.

I decided to name each hat after jazz pianists, so I began to find ways of linking the patterns and auras of the hats to different pianists I love and who have influenced me, he says. Theres a McCoy Tyner hat, one for Geri Allen, plus hats for Herbie Hancock, Thelonious Monk, Alice Coltrane, Bill Evans, Keith Jarrett, Scott Joplin theres just so many now in the catalogue. I sometimes joke with some of my musician friends that I bet they cant name a jazz pianist I dont have a hat for.

The bucket hats have not only become Stevensons trademark thing  he was even spotted unknowingly wearing two at once at a recent gig  but they also have a resonance with his music. The pianists compositions display a remarkable creativity, confidence and versatility; its as if he has absorbed a great deal of information and is already, at a young age, producing something singular and surprising. Stevenson too is a one-off.

Sultan Stevenson Trio. Picture: Saurabh Shivakumar

He was born in Dalston and grew up in Tottenham. His mother is from London and his father was born in the Caribbean island of St Vincent, though both families have strong ties to Barbados. Sultan is an Arabic name and has many meanings, including strength, authority and ruler.

It was my mum who named me, says Stevenson. She often jokes that she always knew I would be on stage and have my own artistic voice.

His parents have both worked in communications, PR and journalism and are big music lovers: his mum sells second-hand vinyl at record fairs and markets; his dad is a serious jazz fan who had been a radio DJ in Barbados and accumulated thousands of CDs. Growing up, there were CDs in every room in the house, including the bathroom and toilet; you couldnt escape them, he says.

At eight Stevenson resolved to play saxophone. I detested the piano because I thought everyone played it and I wanted to be original, he says. But my school didnt have any saxophones or saxophone teachers. So my dad persuaded me to start with piano lessons. Within 20 minutes I was hooked  all those notes and I could play chords  and I never wanted to go near a saxophone again.

He took classical lessons and advanced through the grades, but at 13 his father showed him a 1963 video of the John Coltrane Quartet, with McCoy Tyner on piano, playing 'Afro Blue'  and his world changed. The energy, the intent! he enthuses.

Soon after, Stevenson began attending Saturday classes at pianist Julian Josephs recently formed Jazz Academy. That was it after that, he says. All these amazing musicians were improvising spontaneously and had their own kind of path, but they were all very connected too. I was really, really moved by that.

By 16 he was benefitting from similar inspiration and encouragement at Tomorrows Warriors, the acclaimed jazz education and development organisation that, since it was founded in 1991, has fostered dozens of British jazz stars, including Shabaka Hutchings, Nubya Garcia, Binker Golding, Soweto Kinch and recent Mercury Prize winners Ezra Collective. Stevenson later studied at the prestigious Guildhall School of Music; he graduated this summer with a first-class degree.

This month he plays his debut gigs in Ireland as part of a Music Network tour that includes the Guinness Cork Jazz Festival. Appearing with his young trio of Jacob Gryn on bass and Joel Waters on drums, Stevenson will be joined by estimable tenor saxophonist Denys Baptiste, at one time his teacher and mentor at Tomorrows Warriors. To tour with Denys is massive, an enormous privilege, he says.

Stevenson will mostly play original music from his album Faithful One, smart and open-ended compositions that have strong melodies, virtuoso soloing, a remarkable variety of dynamics and moods (even within one tune), and swinging grooves, vamps and repeated motifs. I want to create something that is accessible for jazz fans and non-jazz fans alike, he has said. Inclusivity is very important to me.

As is his Christian faith, which forms a narrative foundation for the music; there are tracks on the album unequivocally titled 'Prayer', 'He Has Made Me Whole', and 'Thank You, Thank You God'.

The album simulates and explores different facets of the church, the experience of going to church and my relationship to God, Stevenson explains. I take a lot of inspiration from Duke Ellington, who was also very interested in this subject and wrote and performed Sacred Music. Not many people have done that, and I really want to continue to explore this intersection of blues, gospel and jazz music. Amen to that.

The Sultan Stevenson Trio with Denys Baptiste plays Dublin, Dun Laoghaire, Tralee and Newbridge from 24-29 October (musicnetwork.ie). They appear at Triskel Arts Centre in Cork at 2.30pm on Saturday, October 28 (guinnesscorkjazz.com).

Five more jazz gigs worth catching in Cork

Amaro Freitas performing at Triskel during his previous jazz fest visit. Picture: Naoise Culhane

Matthew Halsall (The Everyman, 27 and 28 October): Manchester-based trumpeter, bandleader and record label owner who fuses late 60s/early 70s American spiritual jazz with more contemporary beats, samples and sequencing  to heady and winning effect.

Green Room Jazz (Cork Opera House, 27-29 October): A series of gigs in the performance space on Half Moon Street, featuring leading Irish acts Paul Dunlea (with an all-star sextet), Romanian-born folk-jazz vocalist Aleka, and a five-show residency by Cork soulstress Karen Underwood.

Brandee Younger Trio (Triskel, 27 October): Classically trained and in-demand New York harpist whose unique blend of jazz, soul, gospel, Latin and pop is transporting and utterly irresistible.

Amaro Freitas (Triskel, two shows, 28 October): Preternaturally gifted young Brazilian pianist and his trio; phenomenal technique, high-intensity rhythms, joyous music. Expect standing ovations.

Oden Tzur Quartet and Marcin Wasilewski Trio (Triskel, 29 October): A stellar ECM double bill featuring innovative Israeli-born, New York-based tenor sax innovator Tzur (with the great Johnathan Blake on drums) and protean Polish pianist Wasilewski.
Carrigstown is preparing to say farewell to one of its most beloved residents.

Bela Doyle will exit Fair City as actor Jim Bartley has announced his retirement.

For the past 34 years, Bartley has been a stable cast member and is one of the long-running soap's most recognisable faces.

Many people will know him from the storyline a few years ago when his character married his friend, Cass, in order to avoid a huge tax bill when gifting him some property.

The plotline became a hot topic among viewers and the wider public as people debated the surprising turn of events.

A disbelieving Cass and Bela are legally married in Fair City

Announcing his retirement, Bartley said he was bidding farewell to Fair City with a tinge of sadness.

"The time has come to focus on my health," he said. "I'd like to wish the whole team the very best of luck.

"To the cast and crew, in particular those who I have spent years working with, it was a joy going to work each day."

Bartley's been acting on RTE for over 60 years, having previously been on Tolka Row, the network's first ever soap.

He said that over the course of his career he had made many lifelong friends and made a lot of special memories.

Since joining the cast of Fair City in 1990, Bela Doyle has been through his fair share of dramas - and women.

Doyle had a reputation as Carrigstown's resident Casanova.

Despite being married to another long-time character, Rita, with whom Doyle had six children, the mischievous man left a string of broken hearts in his wake.

There were dalliances and affairs and, in a memorable storyline for Doyle, a secret love child.

Doyle got Barry O'Hanlon's girlfriend, Linda, pregnant. When the child passed away, Doyle could not openly grieve as no one knew he was the father.

Jim Bartley appearing on a special Open House tribute show which celebrated his 40 years in show business

A difficult storyline, Bartley gave an honest and poignant performance of a man struggling with his grief and his choices.

The turmoil of losing a child didn't reform Doyle, however, and he went on to get involved in a love triangle with Pauline, Leo Dowling's love interest and eventual wife.

His heartbreak was short-lived, however, and Carrigstown's love rat got involved with Pauline's bridesmaid, Nicola.

You would need to keep a detailed timeline to keep up with this character's trysts.

Over the past three decades, Bartley has seen his alter-ego through deaths, drama and heartbreak - the death of his daughter, Helen, being the most difficult of them all.

Paying tribute to Bartley as he starts the next chapter of his life, Fair City's executive producer Brigie de Courcy said: "Jim Bartley was already an iconic figure in Irish soap when he joined us, and his unforgettable performance as Bela Doyle has been a central part of Fair City for over 30 years.

"As the last remaining member of the Doyle clan, his exit marks a huge shift for Carrigstown.

"His presence will long be felt, both as a performer and as a kind and good-humoured mentor to many younger cast members through the years."
Two possibilities exist: Either we are alone in the Universe or we are not. Both are equally terrifying  Arthur C. Clarke

Astrophysicists from Trinity College Dublin are scanning the Universe for 'technosignatures' coming from distant planets that would provide support for the existence of intelligent, alien life.

Using the Irish LOFAR (Low Frequency Array) telescope and its counterpart in Onsala, Sweden, the team  led by Professor Evan Keane, Associate Professor of Radio Astronomy in Trinitys School of Physics, and Head of the Irish LOFAR Telescope  plans to monitor millions of star systems.

Scientists have been searching for extraterrestrial radio signals for more than 60 years. Many of these have been carried out using single observatories which limits the ability to identify signals from the haze of terrestrial interference on Earth. Much of the effort has focused on frequencies above 1 GHz because the single-dish telescopes employed operate at these frequencies.

Now, a new collaboration led by Trinity College Dublin, with the Breakthrough Listen team and Onsala Space Observatory in Sweden, is perfecting a multi-site, multi-telescope technique that allows them to search at much lower frequencies of 110  190 MHz.

Aerial view of the I-LOFAR array in Birr. Picture: Alison Delaney

There is a cutting-edge astrophysics observing facility in Birr Castle, County Offaly  this facility connects Ireland to the International LOFAR Telescope.

The Breakthrough Listen programme is the most comprehensive search for technologically advanced extraterrestrial life, developing dedicated instruments at the Irish and Swedish LOFAR stations. Using multiple sites means we are less likely to get a 'false positive' signal  such signals arise due to interference from many human sources on Earth.

The team has just published details of their method and their ongoing search in the Astronomical Journal. They have already scanned 1.6 million star systems flagged as interesting targets by the Gaia and TESS space missions, run by ESA and NASA respectively. So far these searches have drawn a blank.

But they point out that the search has only just begun...

Professor Evan Keane, Associate Professor of Radio Astronomy in Trinitys School of Physics, and Head of the Irish LOFAR Telescope beside some of their antennas at the telescope

Professor Keane said: In the last 50 years evidence has steadily mounted that the constituents and conditions necessary for life are relatively common in the Universe, which begs one of lifes greatest unanswered questions: are we really alone? To some people the Search for Extra-terrestrial Intelligence, or SETI might seem like something from a movie, but it has been a scientific pursuit for decades, and for a host of very good reasons. With this project we are basing our search on the common assumption that civilisations elsewhere in the universe may employ similar technologies to those developed on Earth. As a result radio frequencies are a logical domain for conducting SETI surveys due to the widespread use of telecommunications and radar and our access to next-gen radio telescopes offers a great chance for a deep dive into the universe.

Detail image of where the antennas connect to the main brain of the computer in Birr. There is a whole container filled with these types of connections

Owen Johnson, PhD Candidate in Trinitys School of Physics, is the first author of the journal article, and the first Irish person to ever undertake a PhD on the topic of SETI. He added: What makes surveys like this one truly captivating is the fact that we're pushing these telescopes to their absolute limits, directing them towards substantial portions of the sky. As a result, we have the exciting possibility of discovering all sorts of wild and wondrous phenomena during this process and if we're very fortunate, even encountering our cosmic neighbours."

Johnson, age 23 and from Wicklow, acknowledged that any discovery of extraterrestrial life might not be as shocking to many people as it might once have been: "Now that we know there are more than 5,000 other planets beyond our solar system and the more we realise how big the universe is, the more people consider it likely there will be some sort of life detected."

And if something is really 'out there' there's a whole post-detection protocol to be followed. This is established by the International Academy of Astronautics and means that data has to be properly verified.

"There would have to be years of follow-up observations  no announcement would be based on just one observation when it could turn out to be a problem with an instrument or anything," explains Johnson.

But he noted that any life detected is very unlikely to be big-headed green humanoids and may range from microbial life to something beyond our comprehension altogether: "There may be biosignatures such as signs of microbial life or techno signatures from artificially manufactured devices which would imply an intelligent civilisation."

LOFAR is soon to undergo a staged series of upgrades across all stations in the array across Europe, which will allow an even broader SETI at ranges of 15 - 240 MHz. We have billions of star systems to explore and will be relying on some machine learning techniques to sift through the immense volume of data. That in itself is interesting  it would be fairly ironic if humankind discovered alien life by using artificial intelligence," Johnson pointed out.

For now, though it might be worth keeping the wisdom of science and science fiction writer, Arthur C Clarke in mind: I'm sure the universe is full of intelligent life. It's just been too intelligent to come here.
The Green Party has hit back at the criticism levelled at Integration Minister Roderic OGorman over his new plan to accommodate Ukrainians, insisting the proposal has been mooted for months.

Minister O'Gorman presented the Cabinet with a proposal that would see new arrivals offered State accommodation for only 90 days.

The Greens have rejected criticism from Tanaiste Micheal Martin and Housing Minister Darragh OBrien who claimed the plan would move refugees under the remit of the Housing Department after the 90 days expires.

There are concerns in Fianna Fail that, under the proposals, if no alternative accommodation becomes available for Ukrainian refugees after 90 days, they would end up becoming part of the worsening national homeless statistics, which falls under Mr OBriens remit.

However, a Green Party source has insisted the responsibility of refugees would still fall under the remit of the Department of Integration.

It's understood the proposals have been worked on by senior civil servants for months, with plans being raised at previous Cabinet subcommittee meetings.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has admitted in the Dail that Irelands approach to housing Ukrainian refugees needs to change due to concerns over capacity.

The Government is also aware that details of the 90-day plan are being reported in Ukrainian media, with hopes this will spread the message that Irelands approach is due to change shortly.

Additionally, there are plans to hold another campaign to call for people to offer up pledged accommodation, which is run through the Irish Red Cross.

Under Minister O'Gorman's proposals, refugees would be required to either move into the private rental sector or avail of pledged accommodation after 90 days.

It aims to bring Ireland more in line with other European countries, with concerns being raised over the capacity of refugee accommodation if arrivals continue at the current rate.

Mr Varadkar admitted there are capacity restraints within the refugee accommodation system.

What is becoming increasingly apparent to everyone is that while there is no limit on the compassion of the Irish government or the Irish people, but there is a limit on our capacity, Mr Varadkar said.

Leo Varadkar admitted there are capacity restraints within the refugee accommodation system.

Were very much at that [capacity] at the moment and we just don't know whether we'd be in a position to provide accommodation, and all those additional supports, for another 30,000 to 50,000 people if that number arrived over the course of the next year and based on current numbers, it wouldnt be far off that.

Mr Varadkar also reinforced comments made by Tanaiste Micheal Martin, citing an increased number of Ukrainian refugees leaving European countries to travel to Ireland.

There are now a lot of secondary movements, Ukrainians who have been living for months in other parts of Western Europe, relocating to Ireland, Mr Varadkar said.

Its a long-standing issue with international protection, people who have been living safely in other parts of Western Europe for a period of time, then coming to Ireland and claiming asylum.

Some of that is linked to the fact that we have a better offering in Ireland than would be the case in Northern Ireland, or Britain or France, or other countries that are not too far from us.
Three Buffalo Sewer Authority workers were driving back to the office from a job about 11:11 a.m. Thursday.

Southbound on Interstate-190, they had just passed Exit 9  the Porter Avenue exit  when someone from another vehicle opened fire on them.

All three were hit, including one employee who was killed. Two others, including the driver, were taken to Erie County Medical Center, one seriously wounded and the other with non-life threatening injuries.

Mayor Byron Brown called the triple shooting another heartbreaking day in the city of Buffalo.

No arrests had been made Thursday evening in the shocking shooting that shut down the southbound side of the 190 for nearly four hours.

Currently, we do not have a motive in the shooting, State Police Maj. Eugene J. Staniszewski said.

Staniszewski and other law enforcement officials said at a Thursday afternoon news conference that they believe the shooting was an isolated incident.

We have no information there is a threat to the community, he said.

Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn agreed.

You can see 80,000 people going to the Bills game here on our Thruways, Flynn said at the news conference held at the State Police barracks on Interstate-90 at the Kensington Expressway, four hours before the Bills kickoff against Tampa Bay in Orchard Park. At this time, we believe, like the major said, there is no threat to anyone else and this was an isolated incident.

State police said their investigation shows that the shooter fired from a late-model, dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee, also traveling south when the shooting took place.

Brown, who visited with the victims and family members at ECMC, said all three workers were on the job when the shooting occurred.

It is particularly heartbreaking to the employees of the Buffalo Sewer Authority, he said.

Police have not released the names of the three victims, saying they were making sure family members were notified first.

Brown said he also visited with the 150 employees of the Sewer Authority to show our concern, our heartbreak, out outrage for what happened to their co-workers.

Employees shared stories about the three co-workers. The individual whose life was taken  what a good employee that person was, Brown said one of the employees said. What a caring person that individual was.

The mayor said he also talked with shaken family members of the two wounded workers at ECMC.

They are in pain, Brown said. They are in prayer, and I ask the entire community to pray for the families and the individuals that have been affected by this terrible, terrible crime.

His office announced that the dome at City Hall would be illuminated in white Thursday night as a tribute to all three workers.

Brown noted the shooting took place a day after a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, that left 18 people dead.

Things like this are all too commonplace now, he said. Who could have imagined that something like this could happen to three Sewer Authority employees while they are at work? This has to stop.

After the shooting, all lanes of the southbound side of the I-190 north of downtown were closed as dozens of officers and emergency vehicles converged on the scene.

Traffic was diverted at Exit 11 (Scajaquada Expressway) until 3 p.m., while it snaked at a crawl on the northbound side.

With traffic shut down, investigators were seen examining the bullet-riddled black Buffalo Sewer Authority pickup truck on the side of the highway. There appeared to be at least 10 bullet holes in the truck. What appeared to be a body was on one side of the truck, covered by a white sheet.

Witnesses said that about noon, they saw dozens of emergency vehicles on the 190, as several state troopers walked along the train tracks to the west of the highway, searching on the ground.

About 3 p.m., a flatbed tow truck carted the Sewer Authority truck away and the southbound lanes reopened.

Earlier Thursday, Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz urged anyone headed downtown to avoid I-190 at all costs. He also advised Canadians heading to the Buffalo Bills game Thursday to avoid using the Peace Bridge.

Troopers: Shots fired from sedan on I-190 Friday The Rich Products building was struck by gunfire but no one was hurt, troopers said.

Last month, state police investigated another gun-related incident on the I-190. About 7:12 a.m. Sept. 22, someone fired shots from a dark sedan that was heading north on the I-190 as it passed the Rich Products building at the foot of Ferry Street, hitting the building.

No one was injured in the incident, but troopers investigating said they found multiple bullet holes on the building.

Video gathered from the Sept. 22 scene appears to show a driver and a passenger inside a dark sedan, and investigators believe the passenger fired toward the building. Investigators dont believe the shooter was aiming at another vehicle.

Police said at the Thursday news conference that they have no information that the September incident was connected to what happened Thursday.

State Police said they were working with the Buffalo Police Department and Erie Crime Analysis Center. They asked anyone who was in the area at the time of the shooting who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from about that time to contact them at 585-344-6200. They confirmed Thruway cameras, which show real-time video of traffic on area highways, dont record.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said Thursday that she had been briefed on the shooting and has directed the New York State Police and the Thruway Authority to work with local law enforcement to provide any assistance necessary as the investigation continues.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said the Government needs to slow down the number of refugees coming to Ireland because of accommodation capacity issues.

Speaking at a private Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting, Mr Varadkar told TDs and Senators that Irelands offering of social welfare and accommodation is resulting in Ukrainians and refugees who have spent time in other EU countries seeking shelter here.

He told the meeting that we have to be realistic on that".

Sources said Mr Varadkar addressed the reports of a major row that erupted at Cabinet over Integration Minister Roderic OGormans proposal to offer newly arrived Ukrainians just 90 days of State accommodation before they have to find their own place to live.

Mr Varadkar said that disagreements in government are quite common, but that there was a capacity issue.

Sources said Mr Varadkar said: We need to try and slow down the numbers that are arriving quite frankly, adding that there is an issue of secondary movement", whereby refugees spend time in other European countries before moving to Ireland.

Integration Minister Roderic OGorman has proposed to offer newly arrived Ukrainians just 90 days of State accommodation before they have to find their own place to live.

He referred to comments by Tanaiste Micheal Martin in which he described the increase in arrivals from other countries as a phenomenon".

Mr Varadkar said 30% of people coming from Ukraine recently have spent quite some time in another EU country.

He said the Government now needed to adapt its approach to the recent influx of people, a position he said he didnt like to be in.

He said the Government is in this position because the overall offering that Ireland offers in terms of accommodation and welfare is better than other countries.

He said the changes to how the State supports Ukrainians need to be done right but that the Government has to work out how the changes will impact the housing system which is a particular concern.

He also said how the change in support impacts education for Ukrainian children also needs to be worked out.

The Taoiseach told the meeting on Wednesday night that the Government would not turn Ukrainians or asylum seekers from other countries away.

He said we are required under EU and international law that anyone can come here to seek international protection. He also said people will look back at this period in many years and be proud of the countrys efforts to offer accommodation to those fleeing war.

He said the number of Ukrainians coming to Ireland has increased again and while there is no limit on the compassion of Irish people, there is a level of the States capacity to accommodate everyone and the Government has hit that point now.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has said it strongly advises all Irish citizens still in Lebanon to exit the country as soon as possible due to ongoing volatility in the region.

The Department said that all those still in Lebanon should leave while commercial options remain available.

It said that given the unpredictability of the situation between Israel and surrounding countries, events could escalate with very little warning.

This could affect exit routes out of Lebanon, the Department said, adding that should the political or security situation in the region deteriorate further then the State is likely to be very limited in the assistance that we can provide.

Citizens should not rely on evacuation options being possible if commercial options become unavailable, it said.

While Lebanon has reaffirmed its commitment to UN resolutions, which provide for a shaky peace between itself and Israel, the country has been accused of breaching those resolutions in terms of cross-border clashes with Israel since the outbreak of hostilities between the Israelis and Hamas on October 7.

The Department of Foreign Affairs said that should Irish citizens not be in a position to leave Lebanon at present they should exercise extreme caution in their movements and put contingency plans in place to leave as soon as possible.

Citizens should avoid all gatherings and demonstrations, remain vigilant, and follow the instructions of local authorities, the Departments advice stated.

It added that since Ireland does not have an embassy in the Lebanese capital Beirut all Irish citizens in Lebanon should register with the Irish embassy in Cairo, Egypt, if they have not already done so.
A new European-backed fund to build student accommodation will lead to cheaper rents for students, the Higher Education Minister has said.

The 434 million fund includes 200 million made available to third-level institutions by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and 200 million from the Housing Finance Agency.

Colleges will be able to borrow at lower rates and for longer periods than previously, which Simon Harris says will solve the issue of viability for third-level institutions who have previously said that uncertainty over rents and rising construction prices have made projects financially unsustainable.

However, Mr Harris said that where projects are funded, there will be an expectation that rental prices are kept somewhat affordable or that units are made available at below-market rents.

"When the government invests direct money in projects as we are doing now and I expect we will do many more over weeks and months ahead, that portion of public money is given back in a portion of properties offered at a below-market rate, and we do that one by one but it's certainly not done on a 'would you mind?' or a goodwill gestureit's done as a formal agreement with the university.

"Absolutely be clear that if the State is involved in any initiative around student accommodation, as we will be in relation to this funding, part of that conversation will be making sure that investment results in below-market rates for rent. And that's the approach we've taken with the universities so far and it's a model that's working."

The funding arrangement involves a 40-year 200 million loan from the EIB, with the HFA more than matching the investment, bringing the total to 434 million. This funding will form part of the 25% of the Housing For All commitment made by the HFA.

Mr Harris said the funding could see up to 2,700 student beds built which "means that construction costs which have been a huge barrier for universities in recent years will be lessened".

Therefore it should also mean that student rents and the benefit to families and students should be apparent as well.

Werner Hoyer, President of the European Investment Bank said Ireland's struggles with housing and student accommodation are not unique across the EU.

"This is something that we share in the European Union, this one EU institution like ours is ready to intervene, because it's a serious thing when people decide not to go to university because they cannot afford the accommodation."

A feasibility study is underway to identify specific student accommodation demand and supply by region including an examination of a specific technological university borrowing framework as a mechanism to deliver financed student accommodation.
Women with ovarian cancer are 70% less likely to die three years after their surgery thanks to an innovative surgical approach in a Dublin hospital.

By having surgeons from different specialities work together on ovarian cancer operations, the Mater hospital has also seen more women survive free of disease progression.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among women in Ireland.

Since 2017, the Mater's approach has seen surgery for these patients under gynaecological oncologists include other specialist surgeons on the team.

Professor Donal Brennan, senior author of research published in the Annals of Surgical Oncology, said extensive surgery is often required.

We believe that collaboration between different surgical specialities allows us to safely perform aggressive operations to remove all visible tumours from the abdomen, which is the single greatest predictor of improved survival, he said.

The study supports the growing body of international evidence that patients with ovarian cancer have better outcomes when managed in centralised specialised oncology centres, such as the Mater.

Prof Brennan, gynaecological oncologist and professor of gynaecological oncology at University College Dublin, said medical oncology, pathology, radiology and surgery co-operate on these operations.

The study analysed 146 advanced ovarian cancer patients treated from 2006 to 2015 and 174 patients from 2017 to 2021.

They found three years after surgery the cancer progressed in 75% of patients in the first group, but only in 48.8% of the second group.

Case study

One of these patients, Jeannine Davis, was diagnosed at an advanced stage aged just 39 in May 2017.

My only symptom was a bloated stomach, she said, adding that over days this went from appearing she had eaten too much to appearing pregnant.

Jeannine Davis with Professor Donal Brennan: Picture: Fran Veale/Julien Behal Photography

Her GP referred her to the Mater and in one day her life changed.

I had a CT scan, there was 10 litres of fluid on my stomach so I had to get drained off, she said. Then I was told it was Stage 3C ovarian cancer. That was shocking. It was a huge shock because you are not expecting it.

The following week she underwent what she describes as very intense surgery, 10 hours long led by Prof Brennan.

My surgeon had said to me if I had waited another week I probably would have been inoperable, she said.

It was really severe, so thank God I met the surgeon that I did.

She continues to receive some treatment.

My daughter was only two and a half at the time I was diagnosed, so that was my goal  to see her go to school, she said.

That gave me determination to keep going.

She urged women to talk to their GP, saying: I encourage women if theyre in doubt about anything or just think there could be anything wrong, just to get it checked out."

She has found many women think a cervical smear picks up this type of cancer saying: I would have thought myself that it would show up ovarian cancer, but it doesnt.

The HSE said the most common symptoms also include loss of appetite and urgently needing to urinate.
Irish deputy-premier Micheal Martin has said unionism should have claimed victory on the Windsor Framework.

The Tanaiste also told the BBC that the majority of what the DUP was trying to achieve was awarded in the Framework.

Devolved government in Northern Ireland has not been operational for over a year due to the DUPs boycott of powersharing institutions in protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Unionist parties including the DUP expressed concern that the initial post-Brexit trade deal, the Protocol, created a border in the Irish Sea by implementing checks on good travelling between Northern Ireland and mainland UK.

The Windsor Framework, introduced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, sought to alleviate these concerns through the creation of a red lane, green lane system to minimise checks on goods coming from mainland UK to Northern Ireland not intended for further travel into the EU.

The DUP declined to return to government following the Windsor Framework announcement and is currently in negotiations with the British government to seek further legislative assurances of Northern Irelands trading position within the UK.

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson (PA)

Mr Martin said the DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson wanted to return to government, but should have done so after the Windsor Framework was announced.

I take in good faith Jeffrey Donaldsons commitment that he wants the executive and the assembly back, he said.

I think the Windsor agreement was a major milestone, I think actually unionism should have claimed victory on the Windsor agreement.

Much of what they campaigned for, the vast majority of what they campaigned for was delivered in the Windsor agreement.

Asked if he believed it was a mistake by Sir Jeffrey not to endorse the Windsor Framework, Mr Martin said I do.

I think it was a missed opportunity because things were provided for in the Windsor agreement that unionism was told couldnt be provided for two years ago, he said.

During a visit to Belfast in August, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said if Stormont was not operational by autumn that it would be time to consider alternatives or plan-B.

Mr Martin said that the Irish government would work with Northern Ireland parties and the British government in exploring next steps.

There is no specific plan B there and I think the use of the phrase plan B is not the most elegant of phrases to characterise this, he said.

But lets be clear that if the institutions arent back, that is fairly fundamental in terms of the Good Friday Agreement, and I think it will mean that the British and Irish governments will have to engage, and with the parties involved, in terms of next steps.
Young people socialising at Bells field overlooking Cork city were set upon by a man armed with a pitchfork who assaulted them and stole an electric scooter from one of them.

Sergeant John Kelleher outlined the background to the incident at Cork District Court where James Hogan of 60 Liffey Park, Mayfield, Cork, pleaded guilty to charges of assault causing harm.

Sgt Kelleher said the incident occurred on July 5, 2022, at Bells field, Richmond Hill, Cork, where a young man and two young women were socialising together when Mr Hogan and a young woman arrived.

Mr Hogan was carrying a pitchfork. He punched the man in the face. The two females were then both attacked by James Hogan  both were punched in the head.

He discarded the pitchfork and left the scene. Their injuries were minor cuts and bruises and they all recovered from their injuries, Sgt Kelleher said.

Defence solicitor Frank Buttimer said this incident occurred between 8-9pm that night. He was identified at the scene. He was drunk and when asked afterwards he said, I have no recollection of this, I have no idea why I had a pitchfork, I have no idea what I was doing, Mr Buttimer said.

In relation to the pitchfork, Sgt Kelleher said Mr Hogan swung it around when he arrived at the scene but it was not alleged that he struck anyone with it.

There was an earlier incident on June 2 last year when he was found asleep in a ditch at 8.30am with a claw hammer beside him at Glenamoy Lawn. On that morning he was arrested for his own safety due to his level of intoxication.

Most recently, on October 2, he was very intoxicated at Parnell Place, Cork, and when gardai asked him his name he told them, Ye are nothing but fucking rats.

Mr Buttimer said that the 19-year-old was put out of the family home because of his drinking and drug-taking and he ended up homeless for a short period. He said the teenagers background included multi-substance addiction from a very young age.

Judge Joanne Carroll adjourned sentencing so that a probation report could be prepared on the accused. Remanding him in custody, the judge said he would be given credit for time spent in custody on remand.
The family of a man whose skeletal remains lay undiscovered in a derelict house in Cork for more than 20 years have called for a full review of the States derelict sites laws and other protocols to ensure a similar tragedy doesnt happen again.

Tim OSullivans family has also called for a more compassionate, efficient and proactive derelict sites and compulsory purchase order system citing fears that in a country with 180,000 derelict properties, Irelands dereliction crisis could be hiding more similar tragedies.

They spoke out on Wednesday after an inquest into the circumstances of his death established that he died in his terraced bungalow in Mallow, Co Cork, sometime between January 9 and 23, 2001, aged 62, but that his remains lay undiscovered until January this year  22 years later.

Foul play was ruled out but given the advanced state of decomposition, an exact cause of death could be not established.

Coroner for North Cork, Dr Michael Kennedy, recorded an open verdict.

Mr OSullivans family said they acknowledge that they could have done more to locate Tim and will bear the weight of our own regrets for not being able to find him earlier.

This is something we will carry with us always, they said.

But they said they called to the house in 2003 in an effort to locate him and spoke with gardai immediately afterwards.

In a statement which was read into the record, the family said: At that time, we were unaware that Tim owned the property, which made us hesitant to enter the house without resorting to breaking and entering.

We spoke with local residents and sought assistance from the local gardai.

The prevailing narrative among local residents and the gardai at the time was that Tim had possibly returned to the UK.

We assumed the gardai would carry out a welfare check to confirm the house was vacant.

However, we know now that this was not done.

'We should have done more'

As a family, we acknowledge that we should have done more to locate our brother.

However, we also believe that the gardai and the local authorities involved could have shown more care and due diligence in this matter. They said the decision by the local authority to board up the house without conducting internal checks highlights one of the many shortcomings in the current derelict sites processes.

They said that act surely concealed the truth about Tims whereabouts for even longer.

We do not seek to lay blame, but rather to emphasise to all parties involved that more could have been done, they said.

Moreover, we are deeply concerned that this tragedy may not be an isolated incident.

In a nation with over 180,000 derelict properties, we worry that similar cases could remain hidden.

We firmly believe that the current derelict housing legislation in Ireland is insufficient. The existing system and processes seem inadequate.

Sending notification letters to the derelict house, erecting a notice and waiting extended periods, often exceeding 12 months, before commencing the CPO process, is an impediment to timely intervention.

Furthermore, local authorities appear to not have the authority to conduct the necessary legal searches in both the Registry of Deeds and Land Registry to determine the owner and to carry out subsequent searches to contact any next of kins before initiating or during the CPO process. They urged the coroner to request a comprehensive review of the derelict sites legislation and processes for a more compassionate, efficient, and proactive system.

Coroner, we ask for your help in ensuring that no family goes through what we have experienced, they said.

Dr Kennedy assured the family that he would bring their plea to the attention of the relevant government ministers.
One of Ireland's top gangsters and a key figure in the Limerick feuds was found dead in his cell at Mountjoy Prison on Wednesday morning.

Notorious killer David Stanners from Moyross in Limerick was unresponsive when warders opened his cell door. The 51-year-old had served over 20 years of a life sentence for the brutal murder of rival gang boss Kieran Keane as part of violent and vicious Limerick feud.

He was part of a five-man team who kidnapped, tortured and murdered their arch criminal enemy Keane (36) in January 2003. Stanners, whose nickname was " Frog Eye", was seen by Keane's nephew Owen Treacy shooting his uncle in the head.

He also stabbed Treacy several times that night and left him for dead. Kieran Keane was found with his hands tied behind his back and had been tortured before he died.

His wife told the trial at the Central Criminal Court that his killers were "animals".

Stanners was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment in November 2003 along with four other members of the much-feared McCarthy/Dundon crime gang, Dessie Dundon, Christy Costello, Anthony " Noddy" McCarthy and James McCarthy.

The Irish Prison Service said a full investigation is now under way. It is not known whether he died of natural causes or if he had a reaction to something he took.

A full post-mortem examination will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death.

Stanners was due to be freed from prison over the next couple of years. He was regarded as one of the ringleaders of the McCarthy/Dundon gang and an extremely dangerous individual.

He claimed he was at home watching television with his family when Kieran Keane was kidnapped and murdered. Gardai regarded the imprisonment of Stanners and his cohorts as a major victory in the war against the Limerick criminal gangs at the time.

The Irish Prison Service said in a statement: "The IPS can confirm that there was a death of a person in custody in Mountjoy on October 25 and the next of kin have been notified.

"This death in custody will be investigated by the Irish Prison Service, the Inspector of Prisons and An Garda Siochana where circumstances warrant. The cause of death is determined by the Coroner's Office."
"Significant progress" has been made in the case of a man who was fatally attacked and hacked with a machete in front of his wife by a masked gang in Co. Cork.

Mikolaj Wilk, 35, was fatally injured in front of his wife while his two young children were also in their home outside Ballincollig on June 10, 2018.

Sgt Fergus Twomey told Cork Coroners Court that "significant progress" has been made and he anticipates that a file on the case will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions shortly.

Coroner Philip Comyn adjourned the inquest into Mr Wilks death until April 25, 2024, in Cork Coroners Court.

Mr Wilk, 35, a Polish national, had been working as a gardener and handyman before his violent death. He had been living in Ireland for over ten years.

He was fatally injured when he was attacked by a gang of men who broke into his home at Maglin, near Ballincollig. An autopsy conducted by Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster found that he died of multiple injuries, which gardai said included stab wounds.

His wife, Elzbieta, was also injured in the attack. Their two young children were in the house at the time but were not injured.

Europol, Interpol and Eastern European police have aided gardai with the investigation. Some six people, both Eastern European and Irish, were arrested following the attack but were released without charge.

Gardai previously said that they have found no evidence that Mr Wilk was involved in any criminal activity.
The "status quo" for Ukrainian refugees in Ireland must change, the Higher Education Minister has said.

A Coalition row has broken out over plans to limit State accommodation offerings for refugees to three months.

At Cabinet on Tuesday, Integration Minister Roderic OGorman was accused by Tanaiste Micheal Martin, during a 40-minute heated exchange between senior ministers, of trying to push responsibility onto Housing Minister Darragh OBrien through his 90-day plan.

Speaking in Dublin on Thursday, Simon Harris said while Ireland has responded well to the crisis, it was necessary to change the arrangements for Ukrainians coming here fleeing the war.

Ireland has risen, I believe to the humanitarian challenge presented by war on the continent of Europe, in a really quite incredible way. We have welcomed in nearly 100,000 people.

"We've welcomed them into our communities, we've supported them, we've seen them in our education system, we've seen that in our schools  tens of thousands of people in further education, learning English and other things.

"But I think what is also absolutely clear, you always have to be honest with this, the status quo can't continue. We have to be supportive of Ukraine, but we also have to look at the entire package that we can provide to make sure it's sustainable. Because we want to be able to continue to support, so it is done from a place of good as many European countries are doing.

"And we've seen this already done in some areas around medical cards and the likes in recent months. So we are not the first European country, in fact, I would reckon we're one of the very last European countries to actually look and say we want to continue to support Ukraine but how do we make sure what we're doing is sustainable."

Support for O'Gorman

Mr Harris offered support to Mr O'Gorman, saying he was "quite rightly" raising the issue because it has become a real challenge.

"I think what Minister O'Gorman was doing was quite rightly highlighting to colleagues a real issue that we need to grapple with. And I think the responsible thing for all of us to do as a Government now is await formal proposals and I do think it makes sense when we're looking at a formal proposal for that to consider all aspects.

"I think there's an opportunity here to look at how do we make sure the offering we can provide to Ukrainians is honest and sustainable for the weeks, months and potentially years ahead."

Meanwhile, Mr Martin said any suggestion of a row had been "exaggerated" but conceded that there had been a "robust discussion" at Cabinet on Mr O'Gorman's plans.

"So, I think it's a bit exaggerated to say there was a row. I think there have been many challenging issues that have come before us," he said.
OCT. 26, 2023

BY MIKE PETRO

WNY nonprofits get platform to pitch their importance to community

Pitch competitions aren't just for startups.

Ten Western New York grassroots nonprofits competed Wednesday night for much needed funding to increase their trajectory as part of Shark Tank-style competition Pitch10.

But equally important was that participating nonprofits were provided a platform to increase awareness for their cause and talk about how their organizations and missions better the community.

Tiffany Lewis, whose nonprofit Confident Girl Mentoring works with girls living in marginalized communities who have been through trauma to help build their self-esteem, was invited to compete in Pitch10, but initially thought it would be better to remain in the background and let her work speak for itself.

But she changed her mind after realizing that opportunities such as this to further her effort to help the girls she works with do not happen every day. Preparing over the past month to pitch has been a difficult, but rewarding, process, she said.

The competition, in its sixth year hosted by the United Way of Buffalo & Erie County Next Generation United Advisory Board, was held in front of a live audience in the auditorium of Seneca One tower with $50,000 in grants on the line shared by the top 3 finishers.

I had to practice what I preach, said Lewis, whose organization won one of the three top prizes awarded. Theres excitement in bringing this back to our community and being able to say that we did this and did this for you.

Many of the past participants have used this competition to not only grow their organizations, but also go back and refine their missions, while recognizing that to solve their problems, it does take the help of the community. Some have called Pitch10 a mini 43North competition as it provides one of the biggest stages for local nonprofits.

Its about the person and the problem theyre solving, said Sophia Marshall, incoming co-chair for the Next Generation United Advisory Board and events and community manager for 43North. Youre essentially taking a bet on the cause they believe in.

Winning the first prize of $25,000 was Stitch Buffalo, which employs refugee and immigrant women who sell their handcrafted goods made through the re-use of textile supplies.

Confident Girl Mentoring took the second prize of $12,000, while The Collaborative Center for Social Innovation, which provides programming to youth to help them gain a sense of purpose and belonging, snagged the $6,000 third prize.

The money will help us improve the capacity of our organization, said Lewis, who hopes to reach at least 100 additional girls in need of help over the next year.

Finalists were selected from a large applicant pool through a competitive process based on their work in the areas of United Ways community impact priorities of health, education, and financial stability. Ultimately, the audience of nearly 300 people attending Wednesdays event voted to determine the prize winners.

It begins this process of bringing these grassroot organizations into the United Way family, because we all need to work together for that community purpose," said Trina Burruss, president and CEO of United Way of Buffalo & Erie County.

The $50,000 in prizes is double the amount given away during last years competition, thanks to the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation pledging a $25,000 matching grant to support the Pitch10 competition, first held in 2016 and returning in 2022 after a two-year hiatus in 2020 and '21 due to the pandemic.

Ralph was an entrepreneur and I just love the stories here, said Mary Wilson, board chair for the Wilson Foundation. Its very inspiring to hear all the pitches.

The other seven nonprofits were the recipients of a $1,000 micro-grant courtesy of additional prize sponsors John R. Oishei Childrens Hospital  Kaleida Health Foundation, PricewaterhouseCoopers, National Fuel, KeyBank, Highmark Health, Lawley Insurance and Rich Products.

They include:

 716 Ministries, whose mission is to transform neighborhoods through faith-based services such as job training, construction services and facilities support.

 Bootsector Inc., which provides education and support to the next generation of local entrepreneurs and startup leaders.

 Durham's Maternal Stress Free Zone DH, which provides information to pregnant women to help them make informed choices about birth delivery and milk food sources for newborn infants.

 GOBike Buffalo, which promotes active mobility options, trails and greenways, and complete streets in Western New York.

 Home Beneath Our Feet, which promotes childrens education while helping them acquire basic life skills.

 IF Kids, which encourages sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship through youth programming.

 Licensed to Eat, which provides mental and physical health services to young people through community engagement activities.

RHM Innovations earns FuzeHub prize

The latest winner of the University at Buffalos Henry A. Panasci Jr. Technology Entrepreneurship Competition was one of seven startup prize winners at FuzeHubs commercialization competition held earlier this month in Saratoga Springs.

Medical equipment manufacturer RHM Innovations was awarded $50,000. Founded by the husband-and-wife team of Brandon and Courtney (C.J.) Burris, the company makes an assistive bathing shower head that attaches to a chair and can be used by caregivers at home or in long-term care facilities.

The Rochester startup won the 2023 Panasci competition in April, earning the $25,000 grand prize in seed funding, and up to $40,000 worth of in-kind services.

FuzeHub, which supports manufacturing companies throughout the state, hosted the competition featuring 12 entrepreneurs. A panel of four expert judges selected the best seven projects to award a total of $450,000. Binghamton-based Ashlawn Energy won the grand prize of $150,000.

Also competing as a finalist was Copprium, an Amherst startup that makes flexible conductive copper-based inks that can be printed on anything using any 3D print technology. The $3.5 billion-dollar conductive ink market is dominated by silver-based inks. Copper-based inks are less costly and more user-friendly.

THE LATEST

Plans to use tax payments for improvements near the Mohawk Ramp advanced.

The Medaille University campus officially hit the market.

An investment firm took a minority stake in Lawley Group.

A nursing home says it will pay long-delayed Covid-related bonuses after workers threatened to picket.

The Buffalo Niagara unemployment rate remains near historic lows.

The long delayed Highland Park project is getting underway.

Tens of millions of dollars in federal funds are on the line for the region after it was named a "tech hub."

Sodexo is cutting 80 jobs in Cheektowaga, putting tax breaks it's received at risk.

Employees at Elmwood Tacos & Subs are the latest local workers launching a union campaign.

Kaleida Health is paying a big fine to the feds due to the overexpansion of an employee discount program.

The Lawley Group is expanding in its biggest deal yet.

Rob Savarino takes over for Savarino Companies at Buffalo Lakeside Commerce Park.

Why UB physicians in training are struggling to negotiate a union contract.

Wegmans hits Manhattan.

PUSH Buffalo is building a worker training center that focuses on green jobs.

Some Milk-Bone workers are on strike.

A troubled Buffalo nursing home is a candidate for a program targeting the nation's poorest-performing facilities.

Affordable housing developers are collaborating on a $25 million revamp project of Playter Street.

Deadline to apply for pot licenses extended by two weeks, while enforcement of illegal sales expands.

The five 43North winners have high hopes for their time in Buffalo.

UB is getting a big donation to help build its new engineering building.

MacKenzie Scott is coming through for Neighborhood Health.

ICYMI

Five reads from Buffalo Next:

1. The long-abandoned Trico Products building in downtown Buffalo is slowly taking shape.

2. Why the Buffalo Niagara job market doesn't look quite as vulnerable as it did a month earlier.

3. As the United Auto Workers' strike against the Detroit Three automakers enters its second month, local autoworkers are waiting to see if they will be directed to walk out.

4. How Western New York colleges are adapting to a shrinking student population.

5. What it took for Mighty Taco to grow into a Buffalo food icon.

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.
A handful of tech companies are jeopardising humanitys future through unrestrained AI development and must stop their race to the bottom, according to the scientist behind an influential letter calling for a pause in building powerful systems.

Max Tegmark, a professor of physics and AI researcher at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the world is witnessing a race to the bottom that must be stopped.

Tegmark organised an open letter published in April, signed by thousands of tech industry figures including Elon Muck and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, that called for a six-month hiatus in giant AI experiments.

Were witnessing a race to the bottom that must be stopped, Tegmark said. We urgently need AI safety standards, so that this transforms into a race to the top. AI promises many incredible benefits, but the reckless and unchecked development of increasingly powerful systems, with no oversight, puts our economy, our society, and our lives at risk.

"Regulation is critical to safe innovation, so that a handful of AI corporations dont jeopardise our shared future.

In a policy document published this week, 23 AI experts including two modern godfathers of the technology, said government must be allowed to halt development of exceptionally powerful models.

Gillian Hadfield, a co-author of the paper and director of the Schwartz Reisman Institute for Technology and Society at the University of Toronto, said AI models are being built over the next 18 months that will be many times more powerful than those currently in operation.

There are companies planning to train models with 100x more computation than todays state of the art, within 18 months, she said. No one knows how powerful they will be. And theres essentially no regulation on what theyll be able to do with these models.

The paper, whose authors include Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio  two winners of the ACM Turing award, the Nobel prize for computing  argues that powerful models must be licensed by governments and, if necessary, have their development halted.

For exceptionally capable future models, e.g. models that could circumvent human control, governments must be prepared to license their development, pause development in response to worrying capabilities, mandate access controls, and require information security measures robust to state-level hackers, until adequate protections are ready.

Fast development

The unrestrained development of artificial general intelligence, the term for a system that can carry out a wide range of tasks at or above human levels of intelligence, is a key concern among those calling for tighter regulation of AI.

'There are companies planning to train models with 100x more computation than todays state of the art, within 18 months. No one knows how powerful they will be. And theres essentially no regulation on what theyll be able to do.'

Last month, Amazon said it would invest up to $4bn in Anthropic, a start-up founded by former OpenAI executives that plans to harvest proprietary data on Amazons cloud services. Amazon has not said how much of Anthropic it will own. Its stake in the company, last estimated to be worth $4bn, will be a minority position. Anthropic was sued by music labels for alleged use of copyrighted song lyrics a month later.

The Amazon-Anthropic deal is seen as the e-commerce giants most significant move yet to catch up with Microsoft and Alphabet, which are smaller in cloud services but front-runners in AI.

Microsoft has bet $13bn on OpenAI, parent of the ultra-popular chatbot ChatGPT and the image generator DALL-E 3, after an initial $1bn investment in 2019. OpenAI, started in 2015, was valued at $29bn earlier this year. It may reach a valuation of $86bn, according to recent reports of potential employee stock sales, which is three times what the artificial intelligence startup was valued at just months earlier.

Alphabets Google, meanwhile, has invested around $120bn in artificial intelligence and cloud computing since 2016, according to a Bank of America report, including UK-based DeepMind Technologies, the generative AI tools called Language Models for Dialog Applications, or LaMDA, and its consumer-facing Bard.

The company made a $300m investment in Anthropic and put the same amount in AI startup Runway. Perhaps even more significant than its investment in standalone AI products, Google is in the process of integrating generative AI into some of the most popular software on earth: Google Search, GMail, Google Maps, Google Docs.

AI is the most profound technology we are working on today, Alphabets chief executive Sundar Pichai wrote in a company post in February that described how AI would open up new opportunities that could significantly improve billions of lives. We see it as the most important way we can deliver on our mission: to organise the worlds information and make it universally accessible and useful.

Facebook investment

Meanwhile, Facebook parent Meta has pivoted from the metaverse to AI and plans to spend $33bn this year to support the ongoing build-out of AI capacity focused on its open-sourced Llama set of large language models.

Facebooks chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said on an earnings call in April that Meta had an opportunity to introduce AI agents to billions of people in ways that will be useful and meaningful and that the company envisions its AI investments focused on two areas.

First, the massive recommendations and ranking infrastructure that powers all of our main products  from feeds to Reels to our ads system to our integrity systems and that weve been working on for many, many years  and, second, the new generative foundation models that are enabling entirely new classes of products and experiences, he said.

Executives attributed Metas strong ad revenue performance results, which hit $28bn for its family of apps segment (Facebook, Instagram, Messenger and WhatsApp), to increased use of AI recommendations. The value of Meta shares has more than doubled in 2023.

These headline investments are not the entirety of the AI investment boom.

Goldman Sachs published a report in August estimating that as much as $200bn will flow into the sector globally by 2025. The Goldman report predicted large-scale transformations of businesses and society via generative AI and an overall boost to global productivity and GDP.

Breakthroughs in generative artificial intelligence have the potential to bring about sweeping changes to the global economy, the report reads.

Funding of new AI companies is also going through a multibillion-dollar investment boom, outpacing other investment categories in tech to reach nearly $18bn in the third quarter, a climb of 27% globally over the same period last year.

That, according to figures compiled for Bloomberg by data firm PitchBook , compares to a 31% dip in funding tech startups to $73bn worldwide in the same time period.

Guardian
Dont cry for Paddy Cosgrave, but take careful note of what has befallen him. The rumbustious entrepreneur has resigned as chief executive of Web Summit, an annual event for global tech that has grown to attract 70,000 people. If youre a tech bro, it is, or was, a stapled on part of your diary.

Cosgrave came crashing down when a whole raft of big names withdrew from attending this years event following a series of tweets he issued. The tweets were considered to be anti-Israeli in the context of the current conflict. So Paddy had to fall on his sword.

Such a harsh fate might ordinarily be expected to attract some sympathy. Not this time. Instead, the general reaction has been live by the tweet, die by it.

Despite that understandable helping of schadenfreude, his travails should worry anybody interested in accessing the truth of what is unfolding in Israel and Gaza.

Paddy Cosgrave has long divided opinion. For some, his wealth and corresponding power has given him a platform on which to expose widespread corruption by Government parties and what is referred to as the establishment. Habitually he has portrayed the Irish State to be a kleptocracy.

The first reaction to Paddy Cosgrave's tweet came from Israels ambassador to Portugal, who said they were not going to attend the forthcoming summit in Lisbon as a protest. This prompted others to also take the hump. Picture: Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images

The media, apart from outlets with which he has a connection, are also corrupt. Anybody in business whom he identifies as failing to demonstrate hostility towards the Government is a crony, who owes their success entirely to connections rather than ability. The gardai are a private security firm who protect Irelands upper middle class.

He is a product of that class but the obvious inference is that he has achieved his success despite railing against his privilege and taking on the totalitarian ogres who rule in the interests of the few. His bravery has put a target on his back, he lets you know, to the extent that he now employs a crack security firm to provide personal protection for him and his family.

Meanwhile, on the world stage, this tribune of the disenfranchised masses at home, is now bringing his summit to Qatar, where a totalitarian regime treats human rights with contempt.

Like Donald Trump in his pomp, Paddys preferred weapon of abuse  or truth-telling as he would have it  has been Twitter, now renamed X. And it was the same social media platform where his worldview came a cropper when he tweeted too close to the sun, having a go at Israels bombardment of Gaza.

Im shocked at the rhetoric and actions of so many western leaders & governments, with the exception in particular of Irelands government, who for once are doing the right thing, he tweeted on October 13.

War crimes are war crimes even when committed by allies, and should be called out for what they are.

The first reaction came from Israels ambassador to Portugal, who said they were not going to attend the forthcoming summit in Lisbon as a protest. This prompted others to also take the hump.

Paddy doubled down initially and eventually apologised but it was too late. As the dominos fell, he had no option but to resign as chief executive, although it remains to be seen whether he retains complete power in the organisation as he owns 80% of shares.

Effectively, Paddy was cancelled. In light of his own use of social media and his personalised attacks on anybody with whom he disagreed, his fall has attracted a collective shrug and not a few smiles of satisfaction.

Yet what has befallen him is alarming. Propaganda is part of any conflict, but Israel has pumped up the volume and the suppression of alternative narratives to a scarifying degree in this one.

The attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens on October 7 had all the traits of a pogrom against the Jews, resonating down through the centuries, but the response from Israel has been entirely disproportionate, bombing Gaza with scant regard for civilians or the resulting humanitarian catastrophe.

The aftermath of the bombing of the Al-Ahli hospital in Gaza on October 17. There remains a dispute over who was responsible for the blast in which up to 500 people died. Picture: AP Photo/Abed Khaled

Paddy Cosgrave opined on what Israel was now engaged in and not just his position but his company employing 300 has been put in jeopardy.

Last Monday, 26-year-old Courtney Carey was dismissed from her job with Dublin-based Israeli software firm Wix for criticising the Israeli attack on Gaza. Then it emerged the company had encouraged employees to support Israels narrative online or on social media.

The Guardian reported this week of widespread attempts to suppress pro-Palestinian views in the US after the Hamas attack on Israel have forced the cancellation of major conferences, prompted demands for the dismissal of workers who express support for Palestinians and led to intimidation campaigns against Arab American voices critical of Israeli policies.

On Wednesday, Israel demanded that UN secretary general Antonio Guterres resign simply because he didnt give full context on the conflict when commenting.

In such a milieu, who in the business, academia or even political spheres is going to criticise Israeli actions in Gaza when warranted?

Take the bombing of the Al-Ahli Arab hospital on October 17. There remains a dispute over who was responsible for the blast in which up to 500 people died.

Israeli interests are applying the same ruthless and disproportionate power to propaganda as the countrys defence forces is using in response to the October 7 attacks.

It occurred while Israeli forces were conducting a relentless campaign of missile strikes on the area, yet Israeli and American intelligence sources are insisting that a stray rocket launched inside Gaza was responsible. If incontrovertible evidence emerges that pins the blame on Israel, is the international response going to be muted by fear of some form of cancellation?

Israeli interests are applying the same ruthless and disproportionate power to propaganda as the countrys defence forces is using in response to the October 7 attacks.

They have every right to strike back at Hamas following the savage attack of October 7, but the extent of the response is so fierce that they feel compelled to ensure nothing departs from their narrative that they are merely defending their country.

That is the context in which poor Paddy got the bums rush. You may well find it difficult to shed a tear for him and you would not be alone. But dont let that deflect from recognising what is afoot.
"Hot can be cool & cool can be hot & each can be both. But hot or cool man, jazz is jazz."  Louis Armstrong

If history has taught us anything in this country, it is that if the Irish Catholic Church was against something in the first half of the 20th century, you should probably do it.

In the early 1930s, self-appointed spokesman for the Gaelic League Fr Peter Conefey decried jazz music as "borrowed from the African savages by the anti-God movement, with the object of destroying morals and religion".

If there was ever a statement to inspire young men and women to dance, this was surely it. His declaration of war was part of a broader smear campaign against jazz in Ireland, a style of music that the church posited as malevolent, sexualising and pagan. Talk about a call to musical arms.

On New Years Day 1934, Fr Conefey led a march through Mohill, Co Leitrim, where over 3,000 people turned up to protest this "fruitful source of scandal and ruin".

Then president of Dail Eireann Eamon de Valera even sent a message of support to the campaign, which argued that jazz was abominable music that originated in central Africa and was exported to the West by a gang of wealthy Bolshevists in the USSR to strike at church civilisation throughout the world.

Publicly, Dev agreed, privately I cannot help wonder did he dispatch his representative to Leitrim with stern instructions, before closing the door and happily toe-tapping to Django Reinhardt.

The anti-jazz movement was surely one of the formative Down With This Sort Of Thing episodes in contemporary Irish history. With that kind of opposition, it could not but catch on.

The genre was the subject of Dail debate and was a catalyst for the draconian Dance Halls Act of 1935 and was expelled from the airwaves of Radio Eireann.

The anti-jazz movement was surely one of the formative Down With This Sort Of Thing episodes in contemporary Irish history. With that kind of opposition, it could not but catch on.

It took a while, however. With Conefey and others initially successful in their campaign of spiritual scaremongering, jazz may have disappeared from the airwaves, but much like bootleg liquor in prohibition America, it could be found in dark corners if one were willing to look.

Throughout the 1940s, it developed as a popular youth subculture, but with the shadow of the church still looming large, the music remained homeless, hopping as it did from place to place.

By the 1950s, jazz had found an altar in the Green Lounge on St Stephens Green. By the end of the decade, as the churchs influence began to wane, you could listen to live jazz in Dublin every night of the week.

As its popularity grew, so did the quality of Irish jazz musicians, even if fame eluded its brightest stars. Dubliner Louis Stewart may not be well known to music lovers now, but, in his heyday he was regarded as one of the finest jazz musicians in the world.

Stewart regularly toured and recorded with luminaries Benny Goodman, Tubby Hayes, Ronnie Scott and George Shearing, while his solo album Out on his Own is regarded by many as a jazz masterpiece, the equal of any of his peers.

In the 1960s, Stewart regularly gigged at the Martello Room, a bespoke venue on the roof of the Intercontinental Hotel (later Jurys) in Ballsbridge.

Like Joyce and Beckett before him, Stewart fulfilled the most Irish of prophecies of being regarded as a genius abroad, only to be greeted with mild indifference at home.

The town of Ashbourne, Co Meath, became the rebel capital of jazz for a while, as Stewart performed at the Fox Inn  sometimes as often as five nights a week with his own band  as well as visiting musicians. The zenith of those cameos was a weeklong residency with legendary American saxophonist Lee Konitz.

Still, as Stewarts star in the wider jazz world grew, he remained an anonymous presence in Ireland. While the rock and punk scene grew to international acclaim, Stewart went quietly about his business.

Up until about 10 years ago, you could regularly catch him playing at JJ Smyths on Aungier Street, jamming in front of 30-40 people, all for the price of a tenner.

Like Joyce and Beckett before him, Stewart fulfilled the most Irish of prophecies of being regarded as a genius abroad, only to be greeted with mild indifference at home.

Unsurprisingly, Stewart played at the very first Cork Jazz Festival in 1978, and returned many, many times, both as a solo performer and in support of others.

Quite fitting that the first festival in 1978 was a happy accident, established, as it was by Jim Mountjoy, the marketing manager of the Metropole Hotel at the time, who reacted to the sudden cancellation of a bridge club booking (and the first October bank holiday weekend), by hastily convening a jazz festival.

How apt that a gathering of practitioners of the most improvisational of musical genres was born from the need to fill a room.
THERES history, and faked history aptly tying in with Halloween this Samhain full-moon weekend, at this engaging Haremount, Kilmichael home thats a whole lot more treat than trickery.

Set near the site of a well-known November 1920 War of Independence ambush site under Gen Tom Barry and his flying column, modest-looking but homely Haremount comes with up to four bedrooms, a modern kitchen and an upgraded bathroom, all in stark contrast with the stone remains of a Famine-era dwelling, 'Battys Cottage,' as well as a standing stone circle and a stone dolmen.

Moon landing? Haremount's stone circle is perfect for night-sky watching and lunar cycle observances

The fascinating mix is for sale with agent Ellen OSullivan of Ballincollig and Macroom area agency OM2 who guides the well-kept traditional roadside extended farm cottage on 1.1 acres with extensive planting at 295,000, to include a work-shed, small barn, orchard, and the remnants of ancient megalithic stone construction activity.

Home is extended to the back and has several useful outbuildings

Only, it doesnt really.

Rather than dating back many thousands of years to BC times, the dolmen, and the stone circle with 13 standing stones, are a quite modern construction and addition, done by previous owners of the property in a quiet rural setting, and who may have had the use of a small digger or JCB to move the tonnes of unearthed stones rather than more primitive physical graft and grunt and clever ropes and pulleys of old.

The real deal: sunrise reflects on the flooded centre of Drombeg Stone Circle, West Cork. Pic: Denis Scannell

They constructed it a decade ago, sourcing the large stones in a local quarry and placing them in a circle, 13 for the circle, matching the number now in West Corks

more famous and much-visited original megalithic stone circle in Drumbeg near Glandore, and which had 17 stones when first composed over 3,000 years ago.

Numbers of stone in circle vary, there are very early circles in France, dating to as much as 4,500 BC, and there are c 1,300 recorded in Britain and Ireland: 1,301 and counting, if you include Haremounts c 2013 AD addition.

While the dolmen and home-made stone circle might suit festive fun, holistic, pagan or druid-like lunar ceremonies (theres a partial lunar eclipse tonight), Ms OSullivan says: Im not sure what that would entail!

Kitchen is 21st century, as vendors are chefs

She adds that her current vendors are professional chefs from Sligo, do local food markets (the fridges in the smart new kitchen have reassuring Haccp storage advisory stickers) and are into their music: the living room has a stereo with large vinyl album collection, and theres a black and white photo of blues maestro Rory Gallagher on display, perhaps from his time at Macrooms Mountain Dew Festival?

Ms OSullivan notes that when shes called to the property Its warm and full of good vibes, with a gorgeous aroma of home cooking, with alternative music on the stereo.

For her vendors (going back to Sligo), or anyone else, its an affordable lifestyle property too at its 295,000 guide and while theres scope to grow food on the 1.1 acres, theres already extensive planting with a holm or holly oak tree  the result of a cutting from a tree in Lourdes; a fairy crab apple tree from Toon Valley; and a small oak tree grown from an acorn from the 26 girth Brian Boru Oak in Tuamgraney, Co Clare, reckoned to be up to 1,000 years old.

Batty's Cottage

There are also other trees such as apple, apricot, medlars, plums, mock orange (mahonia), ornamental cherry tree, rowan, myrtles, acers and alders, holly oak, lilacs and limes, magnolia, prunus and cornus, azaleas, clematis, rhododendron and, given the weekend thats in it, a Ruby Glow witch hazel.

Buildings-wise, the extended and upgraded house has up to four bedrooms, a modern semi-pro kitchen with quartz counters, Belfast sink, Shaker units, LEDs, and a UV water filter.

Creature comforts

The bathroom is extensively tiled with standalone slipper-style bath and double shower, and there are three first-floor bedrooms plus optional use of a ground-level room as a study or small bedroom. Theres also a characterful living/dining room with wood-burning stove in a chimney piece, and a second, triple-aspect reception room with beamed ceiling.

The BERs an OK D2, and outside theres a small workshed with bench and stove, small corrugated shed/barn, pumphouse by one of the two entrances to the corner-set site property on quiet roads near the Kilmichael ambush monument.

Quite what else is out there?

While aspects hark back to the past, or recent millennia, selling agent Ms OSullivan notes there is a Starlink satellite internet connection getting speed of up and over 100Mbps, perfect for home workers and says this property has many valuable upgrades, making this both a traditional and contemporary home with style and character.

Star power: Rory Gallagher fans at Macroom's Mountain Dew Festival in the 1970s

VERDICT: Trick or treat? High-speed internet at Haremount via the stars? What frights might our megalithic ancestors have perceived of satellites whizzing across the night skies while observing the lunar cycles... if only this stone circles roots were so very, very many moons ago......
President Joe Biden on Wednesday spoke out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel.

He also said he was redoubling his commitment to working on a two-state solution to end the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Mr Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to pouring gasoline on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack.

It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now, Mr Biden said at the start of a news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was being honoured with a state visit to Washington.

Settler violence against Palestinians has intensified since the Hamas attack, and Palestinians have been killed by settlers, according to Palestinian authorities.

Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing them to evacuate to other areas.

The West Bank Protection Consortium, a coalition of nongovernmental organisations and donor countries, including the European Union, says hundreds of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since October 7.

That is in addition to over 1,100 displaced since 2022.

Deadly violence has been surging in the West Bank as the Israeli military pursues Palestinian militants in the aftermath of the Hamas attack from Gaza.

The violence threatens to open another front in the two-week-old war, and puts pressure on the internationally recognised Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank and is deeply unpopular among Palestinians, in large part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters.

Mr Biden again condemned the brutality of the Hamas attack that killed 1,400 Israelis and said he was convinced that Hamas was driven in part by a desire to undo US-led efforts to normalise Israeli relations with some of its Arab neighbours, including Saudi Arabia.

The president also said that after the Israel-Hamas conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work towards a two-state solution.

Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and peace, Mr Biden said, adding: When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution.

Mr Biden emphasised that point during a Wednesday afternoon call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling the Israeli leader it will be important to focus on what comes after this crisis including a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians, according to a White House statement.

Mr Biden spoke during a press conference with Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (Evan Vucci/AP)

The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to locate and free the more than 200 hostages that Hamas and other militant groups captured, the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ensuring safe passage for foreign nationals looking to leave the strip.

The Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory strikes.

Mr Biden said he had doubts about the accuracy of the Hamas death count, but stressed that it was critical for Israel to move carefully in its response to minimise civilian deaths.

Im sure innocents have been killed, and its the price of waging a war, Mr Biden said.

Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that theyre focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war.

Mr Biden also said he has not directly sought assurances from Mr Netanyahu that Israel will hold off on an expected ground invasion into Gaza before hostages can be released.

What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible, to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Mr Biden said at news conference at the White House.

But I did not demand it. I pointed out to him, if its real, it should be done.

About 10 Americans remain unaccounted for amid the Israel-Hamas war, according to the White House.

Mr Biden also said on Wednesday that he warned Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, that if Tehran continues to move against US forces in the Middle East, we will respond.

American bases in Iraq and Syria have been targeted recently by drone and rocket attacks, and Iranian-backed militias have threatened to attack US facilities because of American support for Israel.
South Korea, the US and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia.

On Thursday they said such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the US and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent US claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the US and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties.

Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un travelled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The US, South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear programme in exchange for its munitions supply.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, left, and Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov greet each other during a meeting in Pyongyang, North Korea (Russian Foreign Ministry Press Service via AP)

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine.

After returning to Moscow, Mr Lavrov dismissed the US accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone.

I dont comment on rumours, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate UN Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the US. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Mr Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites.

Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Koreas Unification Ministry said on Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the Norths main launch facility.

In response to North Koreas growing nuclear capability, the US and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, US and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training.
Australian authorities have charged seven people with helping to launder hundreds of millions of dollars for a Chinese crime syndicate.

Police said on Thursday the arrests came after a 14-month investigation that involved multiple Australian agencies and the US Department of Homeland Security.

They said it was the most complex money laundering investigation in the nations history.

Police said a money remittance chain in Australia with a dozen outlets, the Changjiang Currency Exchange, was being secretly run by the Long River money laundering syndicate.

The reason why this investigation was so unique and complex was that this alleged syndicate was operating in plain sight with shiny shopfronts across the country  it was not operating in the shadows like other money laundering organisations

They said the chain legitimately transferred billions of dollars from regular customers, but hidden among those transactions were illegal transfers of 229 million Australian dollars (119 million) in crime proceeds over the past three years.

They said they became suspicious about the company during Covid-19 lockdowns in Sydney.

While most of Sydney was a ghost town, alarm bells went off among our money laundering investigators when they noticed Changjiang Currency Exchange opened and updated new and existing shopfronts in the heart of Sydney, said Stephen Dametto, an assistant commissioner with the Australian Federal Police.

It was just a gut feeling  it didnt feel right, Mr Dametto said in a statement. Many international students and tourists had returned home, and there was no apparent business case for Changjiang Currency Exchange to expand.

More than 300 officers on Wednesday conducted 20 raids around the country and seized tens of millions of dollars worth of luxury homes and vehicles.

The four Chinese nationals and three Australian citizens made their first appearance in a Melbourne court on Thursday.

We allege they lived the high life by eating at Australias most extravagant restaurants, drinking wine and sake valued in the tens of thousands of dollars, travelling on private jets, driving vehicles purchased for 400,000 Australian dollars and living in expensive homes, with one valued at more than 10 million Australian dollars, Mr Dametto said.

Police said the syndicate coached its criminal customers on how to create fake business paperwork, such as false invoices and bank statements. They said some of the laundered money came from cyber scams, the trafficking of illicit goods and violent crimes.

Mr Dametto said the syndicate had even purchased fake passports for 200,000 Australian dollars (104,000) each in case their members needed to flee the country.

The reason why this investigation was so unique and complex was that this alleged syndicate was operating in plain sight with shiny shopfronts across the country  it was not operating in the shadows like other money laundering organisations, Mr Dametto said.
The Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister told reporters on Thursday that he fully supports an International Criminal Court investigation into the Palestinian territories, and he called for a full ceasefire to bring humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

The court in The Hague investigates and prosecutes people for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Palestinian foreign affairs minister Riyad al-Maliki met chief prosecutor Karim Khan twice during a two-day visit to the Netherlands to drum up international support for an ICC investigation.

Asked by journalists if he would support the court looking into Hamass surprise October 7 attacks in southern Israel, he said that the Palestinian Authority would not interfere with the investigation.

We cannot say investigate here, dont investigate there, Mr al-Maliki said.

German foreign minister Annalena Baerbock, left, greeting Palestinian foreign minister Riyad Al-Maliki before the start of a Security Council meeting at UN headquarters this week (Seth Wenig/AP)

The international court launched an investigation in 2021 into alleged crimes in the Palestinian territories, focusing on military operations against Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip and the expansion of Jewish settlements in east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

Mr Khan confirmed last week that his mandate would extend to Palestinians who carried out crimes against Israelis. The investigation was spurred by the last major conflict in Gaza, but can analyse war crimes allegations from the current Israel-Hamas conflict.

Israel argues the ICC has no jurisdiction in the conflict because Palestine is not an independent sovereign state. Israel is not a party to the treaty that underpins the international court and is not one of its 123 member states.

After his visit to court, Mr al-Maliki said Israel was waging a war of revenge on Gaza that has violated international law.

It has no real objective other than the total destruction of every livable place in Gaza, he said.

He urged world leaders to back a UN General Assembly resolution put forward by Arab nations that calls for a ceasefire to allow in humanitarian aid.

While in The Hague, the Palestinian delegation also made submissions to the International Court of Justice, which is considering the legality of Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem.

The UN General Assembly passed a resolution asking the UNs highest judicial body to give its opinion on the situation last year. Hearings in those proceedings are scheduled for February 2024.

More than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel, mostly in the initial Hamas rampage. Israel has responded with a series of bombing strikes that, according to Mr al-Maliki, have killed some 7,000 people and left more than 20,000 injured.

He also accused Israel of focusing airstrikes on the southern part of Gaza after telling Palestinians living in the north to relocate.
US police have searched in forests, waterways and small towns for an Army reservist who they say killed 18 people and wounded 13 in a mass shooting at a bowling alley and a bar in Maine.

Schools, doctors surgeries and shops closed and people stayed behind locked doors in cities as far as 50 miles from the scenes of Wednesday nights shootings in Lewiston.

President Joe Biden ordered all US flags to be flown at half-mast as condolences poured in from around the nation and nearby, including from Maine native and author Stephen King, who called it madness.

The attacks stunned a state of only 1.3 million people that has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates  29 killings in all of 2022.

The suspect, Robert Card, is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached, authorities said at a news conference.

Card underwent a mental health evaluation in mid-July after he began acting erratically during training, a US official told The Associated Press.

Police said they have had no reported sightings of Card since the shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about four miles away. The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect walking into the bowling alley with a rifle raised to his shoulder.

Maine governor Janet Mills promised to do whatever was needed to find Card and to hold whoever is responsible for this atrocity accountable  and to seek full justice for the victims and their families.

We are not, and we will not, rest in this endeavour, she said.

Three vehicles carry bodies from Schemengees Bar and Grille (Robert F. Bukaty/AP)

Eight murder warrants were issued for Card, 40, after authorities identified eight of the victims. Ten more will likely be issued once the names of the rest of the dead are confirmed, said Maine State Police spokesman William Ross.

Three of the 13 people wounded in the shootings were in a critical condition and five were in hospital but stable, Central Maine Medical Centre officials said.

The attack started at Sparetime, where a childrens bowling league was taking place, just before 7pm on Wednesday. One bowler, who identified himself only as Brandon, said he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it, he told the AP.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery.

A woman is hugged by a man at a reunification centre at Auburn Middle School after the shootings (Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via AP)

Less than 15 minutes after the shooting began, numerous 911 calls started coming in from Schemengees, which was offering 25% discounts to customers who work in the bar or restaurant industry.

Patrick Poulin was supposed to be at the bowling centre with his 15-year-old son, who is in a league that was practising on Wednesday.

They stayed at home but he estimates there were probably several dozen young bowlers, aged 4 to 18, along with their parents, in the facility. Mr Poulin said his brother was there and shepherded some of the children outside when the shooting began.

Hes pretty shook up, Mr Poulin said on Thursday. And its just sinking in today, like, wow, I was very close to being there. And a lot of the people that got hurt, I know.

Police gather outside Schemengees Bar and Grille in Lewiston, Maine (Robert F Bukaty/AP)

April Stevens lives in the same neighborhood where one of the shootings took place. She turned on all her lights overnight and locked her doors. She knew someone killed at the bar and another person injured who needed surgery.

Im still working because I can work from home. My husband cancelled his jobs today to stay home with me. Were praying for everyone, Ms Stevens said through tears.

Authorities launched a multi-state search for Card on land and water. The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat on Thursday morning along the Kennebec River but after hours of searching, they found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbour Station.

Officers carry rifles outside Central Maine Medical Centre in Lewiston, Maine (Steven Senne/AP)

Cards car had been discovered by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and Cards 15ft boat remains unaccounted for, Mr Smith said.

Several FBI agents and other heavily armed officers gathered on Thursday afternoon off a road where several relatives of Card lived near Bowdoin. A military-style vehicle and a white van arrived and someone repeatedly yelled: FBI! Open the door!

The Canada Border Services Agency issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-US border.

A sign signals to the public to shelter in place (Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via AP/PA)

A US official said Card was training with the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment in West Point, New York, when commanders became concerned about him.

State police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, according to the official.

Immediately after the shooting, police armed with rifles took positions around Lewiston, Maines second largest city, with a population of 37,000. The once overwhelmingly white community has become one of the most diverse cities in northern New England after a major influx of immigrants, mostly from Somalia, in recent years.

A vehicle police are seeking information about in connection with the shootings (Lewiston Maine Police Department via AP)

Schools 50 miles away in the town of Kennebunk closed as the search continued. Maines largest city, Portland, closed its public buildings.

Art teacher Miia Zellner was one of the few people out. She came with friends to central Lewiston, where they hammered about 100 paper hearts into trees with the words To My Neighbours.

This is just my way of showing my love and my support for the community, she said. I just hope that people, when they see this, get some type of positivity from it and feel some sense of hope.
Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) chairman General NBan La vowed to end military dictatorship in Myanmar as he addressed the 63rd anniversary of the groups founding on Wednesday.

The KIO is the political wing of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), which has been fighting the regime since the 2021 coup.

The KIO is working with other organizations revolting against the regime to build a federal democracy according to the 1947 Panglong Agreement, the KIO chair said in his Kachin language address.

Myanmar is on the verge of becoming a failed state, he said.

General NBan La urged people not to participate in the juntas census and proposed general election and not to join its allied militias.

The KIA and its allies have seized four junta outposts in Kachin and northern Shan states this month. The KIA in its statement urged revolutionary organizations to continue to work together to crush the military dictatorship.

Duwa Lashi La, acting president of the parallel National Unity Government, also sent a message to the KIO, which was founded in 1960. He called on allied forces to redouble their efforts to end the dictatorship.

The NUG also sent a message to the KIO, saying a federal democracy, which will fully guarantee equality and self-determination for the Kachin people, can be built soon as Kachin leaders are working with the people and other revolutionary organizations.

The KIA has rejected the juntas offer for peace talks and an invitation to attend the eighth anniversary of the signing of the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement.

Some resistance forces in central Myanmar, where the Bamar comprise a majority, have been trained and armed by the KIA.

The regime has often accused the KIA of supporting the resistance movement and attempted to stir up hatred between Kachin and Bamar people.

At least 63 people, including KIA officers, were killed and some 60 others injured in the juntas aerial bombing of a concert to mark the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the KIO in a village in Hpakant Township last year.

Another junta strike killed 29 people, including 13 children, and injured 57 others at a camp for displaced people at Mung Lai Hkyet village, about 3km north of the KIA headquarters, on October 9. The regime has denied responsibility for the deadly strike but the regime has kept conducting air and artillery strikes near the Laiza headquarters.

The KIA has carried out a series of attacks in retaliation, seizing regime outposts. In a departure from its tradition of concealing casualties and defeats, Myanmars military reported its loss of the bases to the KIA in its media.

The KIA and allied resistance groups seized the Lal Long Aungja base in Momauk Township on October 20. Lieutenant General Gunmaw, the vice chair of the KIO, visited the base on Monday and encouraged KIA fighters.

The KIAs chief said peoples defense forces, the Arakan Army, All Burma Students Defense Force, Chin National Army and Kuki National Army helped it fight off junta offensives around Laiza.

NUG defence minister U Yee Mon posted on Facebook about the seizures: The victory in Aungja has broken the dream of the military council to threaten the headquarters of revolutionary organizations and is also an initial step in the strategic operations launched jointly by the revolutionary forces.
The city is moving forward with a plan to designate the Mohawk Ramp, the former Simon Electric properties and three buildings on Main Street as a blighted area deserving of tax incentives, in order to advance Douglas Jemals effort to redevelop them.

Jemals Douglas Development Co. plans to create between 450 and 600 new apartments at the site, plus new retail space, while repairing and then expanding the parking ramp with additional levels.

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Lisa Hicks, director of development for the city, said the existing buildings are all in pretty bad shape, and two parking levels of Mohawk are unsafe and unusable. So, Jemals project is key to bringing them all back.

Jemal is eligible to apply for and receive property tax breaks through the citys 485-a program. But instead, at the request of Jemal and the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency, the Planning Board this week backed the blighted-area certification of the Washington, Mohawk, Ellicott Urban Development Action area, covering the 629-space parking garage, the other properties that Jemal already owns, and the connecting portions of streets, sidewalks and rights of way.

The UDAA designation  which defines the area as substandard, blighted, deteriorated or deteriorating  would make Jemal eligible for other lucrative tax benefits. But he will instead use the arrangement to pay full property taxes while putting the money into a public infrastructure fund for the city to spend on improving the streets.

That is similar to what he did previously with a property tax break on Seneca One tower, with his tax payments helping to fund the Cars Sharing Main Street work. State law requires at least 60% of the land in a UDAA to be government-owned, and officials say the new zone is 62% city-owned, including the ramp.

This allows us to divert full tax payments into a fund that would benefit not only their projects, but surrounding areas, Hicks said. Theres a number of things that need to be done downtown.

The certification now goes to the Common Council for final approval.

Gates Circle project is in a 'blighted' neighborhood after all, court rules Citing a technicality, the Appellate Division of State Supreme Court last week overturned a lower-court ruling from December 2020 that found the city of Buffalo had acted improperly when it designated the Gates Circle neighborhood as an "Urban Development Action Area."

Rails on Main

The board also combined the properties at 2929-2939 Main St. into a single parcel for the Rails on Main project. Undertaken by McGuire Development Co., along with Utah-based Blackfish Investments, the project is converting a longtime industrial site into 321 apartments by demolishing a manufacturing complex and redeveloping other buildings. The project also includes 1,500 square feet of retail and commercial space.

The project was approved in 2017, and is about half finished, but the developers needed to consolidate the properties, particularly for ease of utilities.

The board also approved a rezoning for 1728 Broadway from strip retail to light industrial, allowing owner Mushtaq Kaid to convert a vacant former 55,000-square-foot Tops Markets store into a multi-tenant industrial building. He noted that theres no building within a half mile that isnt light industrial, so the change would make it consistent.

Right now, were just trying to redevelop it, Kaid said. Theres a lot of options on the table, a lot of potential tenants.
Myanmars education system is in chaos due to the regimes failure to fill the massive vacancies of qualified teachers who refused to work for the junta and joined the Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) after the 2021 military coup, parents of students say.

More than 400,000 government employees from the education system joined the CDMa peaceful protest against the coupand refused to work in the regimes education system in 2021. Professors, teachers, administrators and general school staff members joined the movement, causing severe staff shortages at all levels of education, from primary to university.

On October 5, Worlds Teachers Day, the civilian National Unity Government said at least 130,000 teachers continue to participate in the CDM, or more 30 percent of those who joined it in 2021.

A primary school in North Dagon Township on the outskirts of Yangon is so understaffed it can no longer offer regular full-time classes for students, parents of students said.

My daughter only has to go to school two weeks a month, the mother of a Grade 2 student in the township said, adding: Half of the teachers took part in the CDM. So, they dont have enough teachers to handle all the classes.

A primary school in Yangons Thaketa Township opens every weekday but only for half a day.

Primary schools normally start at 9 a.m. and finish at 3:00 p.m., but now my kid returns home at noon. I dont even need to prepare a lunchbox for him, a mother of a boy who attends the school said.

Schools under the regimes Ministry of Education in Yangon and other big cities are struggling with teacher shortages and a lack of qualified teachers, teachers who joined the CDM said.

Millions of students in Myanmar had drifted from classrooms and schools when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the country in March 2020. The military coup in 2021 added fuel to the fire as nearly 10 million students boycotted the regimes education system.

Many parents in Yangon, Mandalay and other big cities shifted their children to private schools while students in resistance strongholds continued studying in community schools set up by CDM teachers and volunteers under guidelines set by the National Unity Government.

Two years after the military coup, many children from underprivileged families in urban areas, as well as those whose parents are civil servants in the regimes ministries, returned to the regimes classrooms because their parents could not afford private schools.

Online education supported by NUGs Ministry of Education is inaccessible to most students due to safety reasons and the regimes crackdown on CDM teachers.

Power outrage, lack of internet access and mobile devices also hinder access to online education.

I think the number of students who returned to the regimes schools has increased gradually, particularly in basic education, as parents could not wait any longer  Our children need to complete basic education to get a job, a mother of a Grade 11 student said.

Non-CDM teachers who remain working in basic education under the regimes education system are grappling with heavy workloads due to teacher shortages, relatives and sources close to non-CDM teachers said.

My sister is in charge of seven classes because none of her colleagues can teach science in her high school, a relative of a non-CDM teacher from Yangon said.

Parents said the quality of education in regime schools has been deteriorating due to the lack of qualified teachers.

Some teachers even give out the exam questions and answers for monthly exams.

So, I decided to transfer my son to a private school to get a decent education as I dont trust in the regimes education system, the mother of a Grade 11 student said.

Impoverished families say they lack the luxury of complaining because they have no options.

As a parent, I wish I could get the best education for my children. At the moment, we have little or no choice. Its like a do or die situation. So, how can I complain about it? a mother of a Grade 2 student in Yangon said in exasperation.
Junta-appointed Union Election Commission chair Thein Soe is imposing restrictions on political parties registering for a proposed general election.

Thein Soe chaired the inaugural election body formed under the military-drafted 2008 Constitution to hold the 2010 general election, the first since 1990.

In 2010 there was no freedom of speech or press freedom and political campaigning was severely restricted.

The international community said the election lacked credibility because domestic and foreign observers were barred from covering the voting, the commission lacked transparency, there were restrictions in electoral complaints procedures and early votes arrived after polling stations closed, changing the results. With pro-democracy parties, including the National League for Democracy (NLD), boycotting the poll, the militarys proxy Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) emerged as the winner.

Thein Soe, following his appointment as UEC chair after the 2021 coup, annulled the results of the 2020 general election, in which the NLD won a landslide, claiming the poll was not free and fair, breaching the constitution and the law.

The election body earlier this year adopted a new election law that effectively disables smaller parties from participating in junta-proposed polls while dissolving major pro-democracy parties like the NLD and Shan Nationalities League for Democracy.

The new Political Parties Registration Law requires parties running nationally to recruit at least 100,000 members within 90 days of registration, open offices in at least half of Myanmars 330 townships within six months and contest at least half of Myanmars constituencies, forcing many parties to run in single regions or states and creating a one-horse race for the USDP.

Under the new law, 64 parties have sought to register. However, the UEC has only approved the registration of 37 parties so far. At least 12 of those 37 parties are pro-military with representatives who met military chief Min Aung Hlaing before the general election in 2020 and urged him to intervene if the voting was unfair.

Some of those parties have had their names changed and registered with the UEC. The USDP was the first to be approved and has been campaigning across the country.

The Zomi Congress for Democracy secretary Pu Gin Lian Kop said: It should be fair. The UEC should say why it has not yet approved our registration. It has been nearly six months. Many view it as intentional. It is like we are discriminated against.

The Chin State-based party applied for registration in April.

Pu Gin Kam Lian, the partys general secretary, was appointed to the juntas governing body, the State Administration Council, in February this year but was replaced after two weeks because he said he was appointed without his consent.

The Arakan National Party (ANP) in Rakhine State, the Mon Unity Party in Mon State and the Peoples Party led by 88-Generation pro-democracy activist Ko Ko Gyi are also waiting for UEC approval.

ANP chair U Thar Tun Hla said: Some parties were approved easily. The UEC is vetting the big parties and parties that have the potential to grow.

The ANP is the most popular party in Rakhine State and won the majority of votes in both 2015 and 2020 general elections in the state.

Peoples Party chair Ko Ko Gyi was quoted saying by CNI: There is no room for those who choose a non-violent political path over armed resistance. Are they trying to convince people to have faith in the political path or completely shattering public confidence?

Parties that have not yet been approved are barred from campaigning and communicating with international organizations.

But the USDP meets foreign diplomats, campaigns and cooperates with foreign companies to send migrants abroad.

A political party representative, who asked for anonymity, said: Some assume that the UEC is delaying registrations to make sure the regimes allies have time to prepare. Most of the parties that are yet to be approved are in opposition.

Min Aung Hlaing said a general election will be held after a census in October 2024.

Kachin Independence Organization chair General NBan La this month said: A general election is not a solution. I urge people not to participate.

The civilian National Unity Government rejected any proposed election and declared the UEC a terrorist organization in April.
The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) seized a junta military outpost in Au Lan Pa Village, Mansi Township, Kachin State on Tuesday morning, according to the ethnic armed organization (EAO) and area residents.

The KIA, the armed wing of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO), launched the attack on the outpost, where dozens of troops belonging to the juntas Light Infantry Battalion 250 were stationed, at around 6 a.m., said KIA spokesperson Colonel Naw Bu.

Mansi residents and KIA personnel on the ground said the clash lasted four hours, ending with the KIAs successful seizure of the outpost.

They said the military fired artillery shells from bases in Bhamo and Moemauk, but no civilian injuries or deaths were reported, as residents of villages in the area all fled a few months ago.

The KIAs Liaison Office had not yet received further details on the seizure of the outpost in Mansi, which is the fourth base the junta has lost in Kachin and northern Shan State to the KIA and allied resistance forces since it bombed Mung Lai Hkyet village shortly before midnight on Oct. 9, massacring at least 29 civilians, including children.

The KIA and allied resistance groups seized the Lal Long Aungja base in Moemauk Township on Oct. 20. Lieutenant General Gunmaw, the vice chair of the KIO, visited the base on Monday and offered encouragement to KIA fighters on the frontline.

U Yee Mon, defence minister of the National Unity Government (NUG), provided details about the seizure of the Aungja base. He said the position was manned by hundreds of junta troops, and the allied resistance forces seized a large cache of weapons equivalent to the amount required to equip a battalion of the NUGs Peoples Defense Force (PDF).

The victory in Aungja has broken the dream of the military council to threaten the headquarters of revolutionary organizations and is also an initial step in the strategic operations launched jointly by the revolutionary forces, he posted on his social media page on Wednesday.

On Oct. 18, the KIA and allied forces seized Nga Bat Gyi camp located about 1.5 km from Shwegyu Town, Kachin State, which serves as a staging post for junta troop reinforcements deployed to Kachin State via the Irrawaddy River.

The next day, a junta military camp located at the base of Wane Lar Mountain near Mong Ko Town in Muse Township in northern Shan State near the Myanmar-China border was seized for a second time by the KIA and allies.

In an acknowledgement letter sent to allied resistance groups and EAOs dated Oct. 22, KIA Commander-in-Chief Lieutenant General Khaung Lun said the PDF, Arakan Army (AA), All Burma Students Defense Force  Northern Burma (ABSDF-NB), Chin National Army (CNA) and Kuki National Army (Burma) (KNA-Burma), had helped it fight off junta military offensives around Laiza, where the KIAs headquarters is located, this month.
Thursday, Oct 26th, 2023 (9:32 am) - Score 2,232

European space operator Eutelsat has today announced that their new Konnect VHTS (Very High Throughput) broadband satellite, which was launched into orbit a year ago, has now successfully moved into live service from its orbital position at 2.7E  covering much of the UK, Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.

The new satellite, which was built by Thales Alenia Space, is a more traditional one that will sit in a high geostationary earth orbit and cover a wide area. The VHTS weighs 6.3 tonnes, supports 230 beams over Western Europe and has a large Ka-band (radio spectrum) capacity of around 500Gbps (Gigabits per second).

By comparison, the operators previous KONNECT satellite weighed just 3.6 metric tons at launch, included a designed lifespan of 15+ years, as well as 65 spotbeams and a Ka-band capacity of only 75Gbps. Suffice to say, the VHTS (Konnect VHTS) could help to boost broadband speeds from space, albeit while still being somewhat hobbled by sluggish latency (ping) times.

Eva Berneke, Eutelsat Group CEO, said: The entry into service of the state-of-the-art EUTELSAT KONNECT VHTS is an important milestone for the Group, showcasing once again our leadership in innovation, and our commitment to bringing connectivity to the next level in Europe to help bridge the digital divide. With its ability to accommodate joint GEO-LEO services, specifically in zones where demand is highly concentrated, EUTELSAT KONNECT VHTS represents a key asset in the Groups offering going forward. Moreover, its substantial precommitments are a testament to the significant demand for satellite connectivity, even in developed markets.

The big question mark right now is over where, in the UK, consumers will be able to access packages on the new satellite. Back in June 2023 we reported on how European satellite operator Eutelsat had decided to exit the retail satellite broadband business (here) and, as a result, customers of their UK ISP outlet  Konnect  found themselves being transferred to Bigblu Operations Ltd. instead.

The old website for Bigblu UK now redirects visitors to a seemingly fairly new provider called Brdy, which is a trading name of Bigblu Operations. The provider currently offers two satellite broadband packages, although its unclear whether these are being sold via Eutelsats satellites or those of ViaSat (the FAQ page only seems to mention Viasat, but the packages look more like wed expect from Eutelsat).

Both packages include a router and operate off a short 30-day contract term, although annoyingly theres no online ordering system (you have to phone or share your personal details first), and we couldnt see any details on how much the systems would cost to install (inc. terminal hardware).

Brdy Standard 25

Advertised Download: 25Mbps

Advertised Upload: 6Mbps

Usage allowance: Unlimited (60GB FUP) Monthly Price: 29.90 Brdy Superfast 50

Advertised Download: 50Mbps

Advertised Upload: 6Mbps

Usage allowance: Unlimited (150GB FUP) Monthly Price: 49.90

A quick look at the small print reveals that the advertised prices dont quite reflect reality because the provider also gives average speeds of 18Mbps (3Mbps) for Standard 25 and 33Mbps (3Mbps) for Superfast 50. The UKs advertising rules mean that they should really be showing the average speeds at the front.

The packages are also expressed as being unlimited satellite broadband, although once again if you look a bit deeper then it becomes clear that both plans include an allowance for priority data (60GB and 150GB). Once you have used all of your high speed data, you still have access to unlimited standard data which may result in a minimum of 128 Kbps download speed and 128 Kbps upload speed, says the operator.

Once again, we strongly suspect that this definition of unlimited would not pass approval by the UK Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) as, under the rules, any restricts on an unlimited plan should only be extremely light. But trying to access even many modern websites on a connection as slow as 128Kbps (0.12Mbps) is going to be nothing short of painful.
Buffalo woman who skipped on starting sentence is indicted on more charges

A Buffalo woman who failed to report to prison following a conviction on federal charges has been indicted on three more charges by a federal grand jury, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced.

Keonna Davis, 36, is now charged with wire fraud, attempted wire fraud and failure to surrender for service of sentence. Prosecutors said the fraud charges stem from a period between April 2020 and May 2021., when Davis was involved in her previous case. If convicted, she faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Prosecutors said she applied 12 times for Economic Injury Disaster Loans and Payroll Protection Program assistance on behalf of several businesses, and did not reveal she was subject to criminal charges. Five applications were approved, and she received about $110,200.

Prosecutors added that Davis was supposed to begin serving an 88-month sentence for her prior conviction on Nov. 10, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas, but did not report.

Davis had been convicted of stealing personal information from victims of Hurricane Harvey in 2017 while she was working as a disaster recovery specialist for the U.S. Small Business Administration, and using the information to receive $285,430 in disaster relief loans.

- Dale Anderson
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.
Niagara Falls police this week announced an arrest stemming from a reported armed sexual assault last month at the Pine Plaza.

Alexander J. Bryant, 18, was arrested Monday in the 600 block of 24th Street and charged with first-degree rape, city police said.

As Bryant was taken into custody, officers found an unregistered, loaded 9mm handgun in his possession, Police Captain John Conti said at a Monday news conference.

Bryant was additionally charged with second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He pleaded not guilty to both charges, police said, and was ordered held in the Niagara County Jail.

Niagara Falls police reported previously that a 31-year-old woman was approached Sept. 19 by a man displaying a gun in the Pine Plaza parking lot at Niagara Falls Boulevard and Military Road. The man forced the woman behind a closed business in the plaza and sexually assaulted her before walking away toward Military Road, police said.

Niagara Falls police warn of sexual assaults with victims approached by gunman in store parking lots Niagara Falls police say two recent sexual assaults in two different parts the city, including one Friday, may be related.

Our total priority is the victims, Conti said. By making the arrests, were hoping we give them some kind of closure and make them feel a little safer, along with the rest of the public, obviously.

Conti on Monday credited Detective Dan Banas for recognizing a unique phrase spoken previously by a man seen on an officers body-cam footage following a tip of a suspicious person. Conti said the victim of the reported September assault in a second interview mentioned her assailant used the same phrase, and it sparked Banas memory.

Conti would not share the specific phrase, but said it was unique enough that it registered with the officer.

The person who used it in the earlier suspicious person call matched the general physical description that the victim gave of her assailant, and more and more things fell into order, Conti said.

The Police Department, in a Facebook post Oct. 8, said the Sept. 19 sexual assault may have been related to a sexual assault reported Oct. 6 in the Tops Markets parking lot on Portage Road.

In that incident, at 8 p.m., an armed man forced a teenage girl behind the grocery store and sexually assaulted her before walking away.

Police said they posted the information for public safety reasons and in the hope that someone might come forward with more information.

Conti said during the news conference this week that he could only speak to the charges from the Pine Plaza incident. He said the reported Oct. 6 assault remains under investigation.
This may not be a sexy election year, but lots of local seats are up for grabs, and the chance to decide who represents your interests begins Saturday as early voting kicks off and runs for the next nine days.

Elections officials are expecting an exceptionally light voter turnout but are offering expanded weekend hours for early voting due to state requirements.

While there isnt a presidential or governors race to draw people to the polls, Democratic Elections Commissioner Jeremy Zeller said there are good reasons for all voters to exercise their civic duty.

There are municipal elections throughout the county that probably impact them more than the presidential race does on a daily basis, he said. People need to read into these races and take an interest.

Aside from countywide races for Erie County executive and County Legislature, and a few Buffalo Common Council races, town supervisor, council and other local seats are up for election across the region.

Voters also have two ballot propositions to vote on: one on school debt for small-city school districts, and one on debt limits for sewage facilities.

Ballot initiative would help small-city school districts in NY Voters will decide if the state constitution should be amended to raise the debt limit for small city school districts from 5% of the district's real property values to 10%.

Early voting will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. this weekend and next in Western New York counties.

In Erie County, weekday voting this coming week runs from noon to 9 p.m. The hours in Niagara County run from noon to 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. all other days.

Your county Board of Elections website provides more detailed information about times and locations.

Early voting ends on Nov. 5. Election Day voting is on Nov. 7.

As always, voters throughout the state  with the exception of New York City  can drop in on any early voting site within their own county to cast their ballots. A ballot specifically meant for your voting district will be printed on the spot.

Erie County elections commissioners also offered a few other insights about this years races as we begin early voting and head toward Election Day.

No more paper ballot books

Say goodbye to paper ballot books forever. Electronic polling books, essentially specialized laptops, will be employed throughout Erie County during early voting and in the general election.

These e-poll books have been critical to early voting operations and locations because they allow elections inspectors to look up your voter registration and find and print a ballot specific to your election district regardless of where you live or which early voting location you visit.

Erie County has been gradually phasing in these e-poll machines in the general election. For the first time this year, these electronic devices will be used in the general election at all polling sites. Youll still receive a paper ballot to fill out, and you will still have to visit your designated polling place on Election Day, but there will no longer be physical Democratic and Republican poll books for you to sign before you get your ballot.

The electronic poll books will enable Erie County to track voter turnout in real time and make it easier to communicate with elections inspectors, Zellner said.

Because of the use of e-poll books at all sites in early voting and on Election Day, voters who requested absentee ballots cannot change their minds later.

In the past, voters could request an absentee ballot but decide later to vote in person. Now, anyone who requested an absentee ballot will have their names removed from the e-poll books, so if they try to cast an in-person vote, their ballot wont count, Zellner said.

Some town races are snoozers

Part of the reason why a light turnout is expected is that many local races in rural towns are uncontested.

Republican Elections Commissioner Ralph Mohr pointed out that the Town of Lancaster has no contested seats. Neither do seven other towns, including Alden, Boston, Colden, Collins, Concord, Elma and Holland.

Mohr said he couldnt recall a time when so many candidates were unopposed.

Less people want to get involved in politics, he said.

Fixed costs despite turnout

Early voting is extremely convenient in a high turnout year, like a presidential election year, but costs dont go down in a year like this one, when voter turnout is expected to be low.

Each polling location has a minimum of four elections inspectors and Erie County has an unusually high number of polling places  38  to accommodate every municipality. Comparatively, Niagara County has four.

Based on a rough formula provided by Mohr, early voting costs in Erie County would be roughly $218,000 for the general election.

Elections commissioners said Erie County could reduce the number of polling sites to save money, particularly in low-turnout voting locations in rural towns. But its politically difficult to say some communities can have an early voting site, while others cant.

Its a slippery slope, Zellner said.
ALBANY  Before last Decembers deadly blizzard hit Buffalo, National Grids emergency preparation was in some ways a step ahead of governments.

Despite that preparation, the company was ultimately unable to restore hundreds of Buffalo residents power until five days after the storm hit.

At a meeting of the state Public Service Commission earlier this month, Commissioner John Maggiore cast that as a failing of the utilitys government partners. He urged National Grid to not assume in the future that government would be as prepared as the company might be  and to speak up about what it needed to function effectively.

If the utilities are interpreting data different than everyone else, Im imploring them to speak up, Maggiore said, while speaking of the blizzard that killed 46 people in Erie County and one in Niagara County.

Maggiores comments were at odds with the views of Gov. Kathy Hochul, who last December defended the states response, arguing the storm was not a challenge of resources or equipment and noting the state had hundreds of snowplows and personnel pre-positioned waiting for the storm to come.

She cited instead the inability to move through city streets once the snow started with the ferocity that it hit us with.

You could not safely travel even though you had enough personnel and equipment, she said.

Maggiore is a Buffalo native who endured the Blizzard of 77 while growing up, the surprise October storm of 2006, and the November 2014 snowstorms. And as senior adviser to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, he helped oversee storm response in Western New York.

After Cuomo resigned in 2021, Hochul sought to replace Maggiore on the Public Service Commission, which oversees public utilities. But Maggiore refused to resign.

In his speech at a Public Service Commission meeting on Oct. 12, Maggiore appeared to offer several implicit criticisms of her administrations actions, although he never singled out the response of any government entity by name.

Maggiores comments were based on a report by the Department of Public Service staff released at the Public Service Commissions October meeting  finding that National Grid had appropriate resources in place prior to the storm  as well as two other reports issued earlier this year by nongovernmental entities. The latter reports more broadly examined the responses by governments. In addition, National Grid has released its own self-assessment.

Maggiore noted how National Grid began tracking Winter Storm Elliott on Dec. 18, 2022, and that by Dec. 20, the company had realized that Western New York would be hit especially hard and mobilized to bring in hundreds of extra employees. National Grid canceled employees holiday vacation plans.

Such mobilization should not happen in a vacuum, Maggiore said.

Grid clearly knew it would need assistance to establish conditions for which these crews could restore power after the storm, Maggiore said. Utilities should not just assume that their partners are moving resources into place at the same time and same places that they are.

A report issued this year by the consulting firm Guidehouse Inc.  which was commissioned by the Hochul administrations Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES)  described a state government activation that moved more slowly.

The State Emergency Operations Center  the states centralized location for emergency response in Albany  is staffed by DHSES personnel who typically work in various offices around the state. During an emergency activation situation, however, staff is called to work in Albany. According to the Guidehouse report, discussion of activating the Center began on Dec. 20, after the agency received briefings from National Weather Service signaling the possibility of a major storm.

The operations center was not activated until the evening of Dec. 22, and did not open until the morning of Dec. 23  the morning that whiteout conditions began in Buffalo.

According to the Guidehouse report, a complicating factor of the storm response was the Christmas holiday falling during the storms escalation. DHSES staff members had already made holiday vacation plans and were not initially available to come in, the report stated.

By the time the blizzard had hit Buffalo on Dec. 23, all positions and responsibilities were covered, according to the Guidehouse report.

A DHSES spokesman, Colin Brennan, told The News that the state did begin preparing for the storm before it hit, and that the Center was fully staffed throughout the event.

Days without power

During the blizzard, four National Grid substations froze over. (The company is now taking both short-term and long-term steps to fix the issue.)

With the help of front-loader vehicles clearing the streets, National Grid was able to restore the downed substations by 9 p.m. on Christmas last year, giving back power to over 10,000 customers.

While that issue was resolved fairly quickly, other residents had to wait several days more for power. More than 110,000 people lost power in Western New York, stemming from other issues beyond the substations, such as downed power lines. Power was not restored for some residents until Dec. 28.

Maggiore said a lack of front-loaders in the region made National Grids efforts to restore power move more slowly. He suggested that government should have been more proactive in moving equipment to the city before the storm hit.

Grid was having trouble getting down streets that were blocked by cars snowed in, in the middle of the streets, Maggiore said. Plows are inadequate to remove snowed-in cars, so more front-loaders and staff to operate them were needed to clear roads and thus restore power faster.

A report commissioned by the City of Buffalo  and written by New York Universitys Robert F. Wagner School of Public Service  stated that even with mutual aid assistance, the number of snow removal vehicles was still not sufficient to clear the roads throughout Buffalo for the better part of a week.

Brennan, the DHSES spokesman, said New York State pre-deployed hundreds of people and hundreds of pieces of equipment to Western New York, which were in place before the storm hit.

Operations were hindered for more than 30 hours by the longest blizzard in the history of the continental United States below 5,000 feet of elevation, which made it impossible for first responders to move throughout the region, Brennan said. These issues were not due to any lack of resources on the ground.

Executive action

Meanwhile, a former top aide to Cuomo, Melissa DeRosa, has argued that Cuomos approach to blizzards  issuing orders giving himself top-down power to close local roads  was necessary for a unified, coordinated response. In this case of this storm, Hochul allowed local governments to decide when to close roads, an approach more traditionally taken by governors.

On the morning of Dec. 23, Erie County closed roads first, but only announced the ban around 8:45 a.m. The ban took effect at 9:30 a.m., 30 minutes before whiteout conditions began. By that time, some Buffalo residents had already gone to work, and at least one froze to death while attempting to drive home.

The Wagner report noted that the problem of stranded vehicles was likely related to the timing for closing roads by Erie County.

Although New Yorks prior Gov. Andrew Cuomo had historically decreed road closures through executive order during his tenure, current Gov. Kathy Hochul  has permitted greater local decision-making around road closures, the Wagner report stated. This likely led to a wait-and-see approach leading up to the blizzard that may have contributed to belated road closures by the County ... Meanwhile, drivers and pedestrians still took to the streets, either unaware of or underestimating the dangers, or having been called into work before the travel ban was issued.

Maggiore argued that in the future, National Grid should advise government about how and when to plow streets  and when to close them.

The main villain here was the storm itself, Maggiore said. But fast action, proper equipment, sufficient personnel, clear and effective communications and efficient management can mitigate the disaster. And yes, as I learned, all of that is facilitated better when someone takes charge.

Asked about Maggiores comments, a National Grid spokesman noted that prior to the storm, National Grid proactively reached out to elected, municipal and emergency management officials to keep them updated on our preparations and provide safety information.

The company remained in constant contact with customers and key stakeholders throughout the storm, said National Grid spokesman David Bertola. National Grid partnered with a multi-agency coalition of state and local emergency response organizations to identify and prioritize areas for road clearance to facilitate power restoration and emergency response where conditions were safe to do so.
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Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  Barak Ravid at Axios reports that when Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani a couple of weeks ago, he asked the government to have al-Jazeera Arabic tone down its coverage of Israel and Gaza. Blinken, addressing a Jewish group in New York on Monday, said that he asked the Qataris to turn down the volume on Al Jazeeras coverage because it is full of anti-Israel incitement.' Not sure why Blinken is the agent of censorship for the New York Israel lobby. Then yesterday, President Biden cast doubts on the death toll of Palestinians being killed by Israeli air strikes being reported by Gazas Ministry of Health.

Drone video of destruction in Gaza

The ongoing genocide against the civilian population of Gaza, perpetrated by the Israeli government of Binyamin Netanyahu, is an embarrassment for the United States, which fully supports this reckless disregard for the lives of innocent noncombatants  men, women and children.

While Israel has the right to strike back at the Hamas organization in the wake of the latters hideous October 7 attack on Israel, it doesnt have the right to do so in a way that recklessly endangers civilian lives. Beyond that issue, Israel is recognized by the United Nations as the occupying power of Gaza, and therefore has responsibilities under the 4th Geneva Convention of 1949 to preserve the lives and well-being of the occupied population. Finally, according to the Rome Statute that underpins the International Criminal Court, targeting a group such as the Palestinians of Gaza for death is a form of genocide, regardless of the number killed.

Embed from Getty Images

GAZA CITY, GAZA  OCTOBER 25: Palestinians try to collect usable belongings from the building containing the al-Magazi bakery, which was completely destroyed as a result of the Israeli attacks with warplanes and artillery fire as Israeli attacks continue on the 19th day in Gaza City, Gaza on October 25, 2023. As a result of the Israeli attacks, the building was completely destroyed and the surrounding businesses were also damaged. (Photo by Ashraf Amra/Anadolu via Getty Images)

The Biden-Blinken line that Israel is not actually killing large numbers of innocent noncombatants in Gaza, and that news outlets should not report these unlawful killings in a thoroughgoing way, fails along several dimensions. This pitiful denialism reminds me of the scene in the first Star Wars movie when Obi Wan Kenobe mesmerizes the storm troopers looking for R2 D2 and 3-CPO, telling them, These are not the droids youre looking for.

In fact, the Gaza Ministry of Health is staffed by professional bureaucrats, not Hamas fighters, and its statistics are gathered from hospitals and other local institutions on the ground. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch have attempted to double check these statistics, and have never found major discrepancies, as Adam Taylor at WaPo reports.

Here are the MoH statistics for Palestinian victims in Gaza on Wednesday as reported at Reliefweb: Israeli air strikes killed 756 people, including 344 children, over the past 24 hours (as of 18:00 on 25 October), according to the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Gaza. Overall, 6,547, of whom 68 per cent are said to be children and women, were killed in Gaza since the start of hostilities, according to MoH. About 1,600 people, including 900 children, have been reported missing and may be under the rubble. Heavy Israeli bombardments have continued throughout the day. Some 17,439 Palestinians, in addition, have been wounded.

Reliefweb adds: Water supply through the network in areas south of Wadi Gaza has temporarily improved. This happened after UNRWA and UNICEF managed to deliver small quantities of fuel they had retrieved from their existing reserves to key facilities. However, the available fuel in these facilities will be exhausted by 26 October and supply of piped water is expected to cease again.

Israel has dropped 12,000 tons of bombs on Gaza since October 7, damaging 183,000 housing units, or about half the housing stock in the Gaza strip.

Regardless of how many noncombatants Israel has blown to smithereens, for Netanyahu to deny them water is a war crime.

Perhaps President Biden would be interested to know that some historians view as a form of genocide the British use of the Irish potato famine as an avenue to the reform of the Irish agrarian economy in a way that failed to stem the death toll of the late 1840s. There is a parallel, I would argue, with the Israeli elites determination to use October 7 for social engineering purposes in Palestine.

As for Al Jazeera, on Wednesday an Israeli air strike on South Gaza killed the wife and children of an Al Jazeera reporter, Wael Dahdouh.

The Star: Israeli strike kills Al Jazeera reporters family in Gaza<

Dahdouh had moved his family to South Gaza in accordance with Israeli instructions, since Tel Aviv said it would bomb north Gaza intensively but leave the south alone. Actually, it has bombed the south, and it was in such an air strike that Dahdouhs family perished.

Al Jazeera Live update :Israel bombardment of the Gaza Strip is one of the largest . . .

I guess that Blinkens message, that Al Jazeera should stop condemning the Israeli assault on tiny Gaza, will rather get lost now.
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Istanbul (Special to Informed Comment)  To many foreign onlookers, Tunisia and Iran share many common qualities; Both countries are mostly Muslims and both are considered third world countries that have been influenced by western powers, Tunisia with the French colonization and Iran with the British Empire influence. Yet, when it comes to women rights, Tunisia has always been considered a leader in Women rights among Muslim countries, especially when compared to countries like Iran. This statement might be true in the first look but a deeper analysis of women rights in both countries demonstrate that this has not always been the case.

If we had to trace back the start of women rights in Tunisia, many would guide you back to the historic promulgation of progressive family law in Tunisia in 1956 right after the independence from France. This law made Tunisia a pioneer of women rights in the Arab world. Many Tunisian women give credit to the 1956 civil rights code (Code of Personal Status) to all the suffrage Tunisian women gained thereafter, alongside a focus on an accessible and an egalitarian education system that began to flourish after Tunisias independence. Since the unveiling of this code in 1956 by former President Habib Bourguiba, this day has become a celebration for Tunisian women every 13th of August as the womens National day.

Despite critics of former President Bourguiba who argue that this code was nothing more than a facade used by the previous president, the effects were undoubtedly a big gain for Tunisian women. Although the country soon moved into a repressive authoritarian regime for more than 20 years led by former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, the political and societal gains in women rights were safeguarded and even pushed forward. Yet, while these rights may appear to be modern and progressive, they were used by this regime to pander to the west and to hide the ugly realities of Ben Alis authoritarian regime that all came to collapse in 2011.

Global Land Tool Network: Success stories: Women securing their housing, land, and property rights in Tunisia

Political and economic instability and corruption in Tunisia were the catalyst for the 2011 Jasmine Revolution. However, Tunisian women took the chance provided by the revolution to push womens rights into the central stage. Women were as essential as men in the protests leading to the success of the Revolution, and according to Lawyer Bilel Larbi, women from all walks of life were present in the protests; from veiled women to women in mini-skirts. Thanks to the Jasmine Revolution, women protected their already established rights, and gained even more political rights such as the 2014 gender-parity law in the parliament, the passing of the 2017 legislation concerning violence against women, or the fact that in 2018, women secured 47 percent of seats in local elections.

Since the 2011 revolution, women have truly established themselves in the political scene and fought hard to maintain and improve their rights. However, the fight for equality and representation is still an ongoing issue in the country especially with the new government. According to Ahlam Boursal, general secretary of the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women, women in Tunisia still suffer from systematic violence and hate speech along with other major issues that still plague the Tunisian scene. Hence, Tunisian women do have major gains when it comes to women rights but its not enough. It was and still is an ongoing fight to protect these rights and push them even forward.

On the other hand, if we want to talk about women rights in Iran, we need to start with pre-revolutionary Iran. The Pahlavi era provided major gains in terms of women rights; Education was free and equal for boys and girls, in 1963, women gained the right to vote and run for parliament, the legal marriage age for women was raised from 13 to 18, and women were protected from unilateral divorce. However, many of these advancements came to a halt after the 1979 Revolution under Khomeini. The new government undid most of the progress in women rights as they were seen as a rejection of Islamic rules and as an imposition of western values.

Since the 1979 Revolution, compulsory hijab laws and the removal of Pahlavi era reforms in Iran have penetrated and restricted almost all aspects of womens life in the country. For instance, The compulsory hijab laws in modern day Iran restrict Iranian womens access to employment, education, social benefits and proper health care. Also, due to the removal of the 1967 Family Protection Act, Iranian women can lawfully wed at the age of 13 and even younger than that through judicial and parental consent. Hence, instead of pushing women rights forward, the revolution provided the contrary effects and brought them back years behind.

Throughout this era of regression in women rights in Iran, women activists were unable to sustain any strong political support to champion their case but they are hailed with social support all over the world. A major example of their situation is the many names of socially influential activists who were faced with harassment, intimidation, detention, and smear campaigns in the pursuit of their rights such as Narges Mohammadi, who received an 11 years sentence for leading a human rights organization on charges of colluding against national security, and generating propaganda against the state..

A simple comparison of Iran and Tunisias cases would undoubtedly lead to the conclusion that Tunisias revolutions  first against France and then against Ben Alis regime  led to the improvement of womens rights and their solidification. As for Irans case, the Khomeini revolution irreversibly led to the regression of womens rights in Iran. However, a deeper analysis would provide a better explanation and a closer look at both countries.

Democracy Now! Woman, Life, Freedom: Narges Mohammadi, Imprisoned Iranian Activist, Awarded 2023 Nobel Peace Prize

For starters, the Khomeini revolution of 1979 deployed women in their protests against the Pahlavi rule but in contrast to the Tunisian Jasmine Revolution, women were used as instruments for the revolution, not as agents of change championing their own cause like in the Tunisian revolution. Hence, the main difference was that women rights were an essential cause in Tunisias case, and a hindrance and a liability for the Iranians revolutions goals.

Furthermore, deeper down in history, women rights in Tunisia starting from the rule of Habib Bourguiba became an integral part in Tunisians lives and norms, starting with the Code of Personal Status, which is celebrated and hailed to this day by Tunisian women. Yet, these progressive changes in Iran at the hands of the Pahlavi rulers were seen by the masses as western norms imposed on the people and were massively rejected and seen as a rejection of Irans culture.

In the end, while many women in Tunisia do still face numerous challenges in Tunisian society, the core concepts of womens rights were considered important to Tunisians from the creation of their sovereign national identity which led them to survive multiple revolutions and stay on the forefront of the countrys social issues. On the other hand, these same concepts were imposed on the public and favored by the pre-revolution government in Iran making them feel unauthentic and a tool to please the west which rendered them in the end ineffective and detrimental in the long run to the womens cause.
Coquitlam, BC - TheNewswire - October 26, 2023 - Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the Company or Grid Battery) (TSXV:CELL) (OTC:EVKRF) (FRA:NMK2) announces that its exploration team has just visited Volt Canyon Property in Lander County, Nevada, approximately 50 kilometres west of Eureka, Nevada.

At the Volt Canyon Lithium Project, the Company contracted the services of Rangefront Geological (Rangefront) to perform a detailed soil sampling on a 100 m X 100 m spacing as a first phase of the Companys exploration plan on site. The Company proposes to use the results of these soil samples, together with a planned second phase exploration program involving geophysical surveys of the property, to help predict geological structure and possible locations for lithium accumulation. Once the first two phases of this exploration program at Volt Canyon have been successfully completed, the Company will determine the next steps for its overall exploration plan. This may include, but is not limited to, a subsequent drilling program.

Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments Once we receive the results from the assay lab, we will use this information and plan our next steps at Volt Canyon. This is a very exciting time for our shareholders and company. It will be great to realize the potential of this new area of Nevada for lithium that has not previously been extensively explored by others in the past.

Volt Canyon Property Images and Grid Qualified Person, Mr. Seth Cude, P.G.

Soil Samples (100 X 100M Grid) (Volt Canyon Lithium Project)

About Rangefront Geological

Elko Nevada-based Rangefront Geological has combined in-depth expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide mining consulting services, contract labor, field crew services, and vehicular support to the mining industry. With services available across North America, Rangefront works closely with its clients to provide high-quality mineral exploration services.

Qualified Person

Mr. Seth Cude, P.G. is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information contained within this news release.

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 Companys 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: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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.




Trick or treaters, get ready for the first batch of a wintry mix of wet snow and rain during Halloween week.

This workweek has been unseasonably warm  with spotty showers here and there  but the weekend will be significantly cooler. Light showers are expected Saturday, and it could rain Sunday, too.

It will be cold enough to have a few snow showers Monday, Tuesday, National Weather Service Buffalo meteorologist Liv Jurkowski said.

Lower-than-average temperatures next week are forecast to climb only into the high 40s, and drop into the low 30s overnight.

The average high temperature this time of year is about 56 degrees; the average low is 41 degrees, Jurkowski said.

Cooler temperatures will usher in the possibility of some snow showers mixed with rain, particularly south of Buffalo and southeast of Lake Ontario, Weather Service meteorologist Phillip Pandolfo said.

We are looking at minor accumulation mostly in the higher terrain areas, Pandolfo said. It is going to be a colder pattern potentially for the next couple of weeks, starting from next week.

Local News topical Complete coverage: Blizzard of 2022 The Buffalo Niagara region is still reeling from the blizzard that walloped the area on Dec. 23 and 24.

It is not uncommon to see the first snowflakes of the winter season in October, he said  but that doesnt necessarily signal a rough winter like 2022-23, which included a snowstorm the weekend before Thanksgiving that dropped up to 6 feet of snow on parts of Western New York, followed by a cataclysmic blizzard Christmas weekend that buried almost all of the region for several days and led to the deaths of nearly 50 people.

Last winter, the region experienced unseasonably warm temperatures because of La Nina, one jet stream pattern in the Pacific Ocean that plays a general role in weather conditions across the U.S., Pandolfo said.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association Climate Prediction Center reports the high chance that a different pattern, El Nino, will hold sway in coming months, he said, which for Buffalo Niagara favors above normal temperatures for the months of December, January and February, and a potentially milder winter.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Atacama Copper Corporation (TSXV: ACOP) ("Atacama Copper" or the "Company") announces that it has signed a binding letter of intent dated October 26, 2023 (the "Letter of Intent") with TCP1 Corporation ("TCP1"), an arm's length private company with mineral properties located in Mexico, relating to a business combination whereby the Company will acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of TCP1 in exchange for common shares of the Company (the "Proposed Transaction"). Concurrent with the Proposed Transaction, the Company has entered into an agreement with Cormark Securities Inc. and Stifel Canada as co-lead agents (collectively, the "Agents") for a private placement of subscription receipts (the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of C$0.18 per Subscription Receipt for minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000 (the "Concurrent Financing"), each of which will automatically convert into a common share in the capital of the Company, in connection with the consummation of the Proposed Transaction. Completion of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing are subject to the execution of definitive agreements, obtaining all necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals and satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The Proposed Transaction is expected to constitute a "reverse takeover" of Atacama Copper pursuant to the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSXV") and is subject to the acceptance of TSXV. The Company following the completion of the Proposed Transaction is referred to herein as the "Resulting Issuer" or "Newco".

Highlights of the Transaction:

Creates a diversified exploration and development company with assets in close proximity to established operations in geologically prospective regions of Mexico and Chile.

Resulting Issuer will be led by a team with a proven history and track record of discovery, exploration success, mine building, operations, and community engagement and relations.

Establishes a well-capitalized company supported by a strong shareholder base.

Provides multiple avenues of shareholder value creation as the combined asset base is advanced through focused and generative exploration programs that will support expansion of the mineralized footprint, in addition to early engineering and test work that will support future project optimization.

Establishes a platform for future acquisition and consolidation opportunities in the Americas.

Tim Warman, CEO & Director commented: "The TCP1 assets offer the Company projects that can be immediately drilled and expanded upon in proven mining jurisdictions. The transaction offers an excellent mix of good projects, industry leading investors and potential for future growth. I'm especially excited to have Charlie Ronkos, an incredibly experienced explorationist and the former SVP Exploration of Goldcorp joining the Atacama team. In addition to his long involvement with the TCP1 Mexico assets, he has worked extensively on the El Morro/La Fortuna deposit adjacent to our Placeton and Caballo Muerto projects in Chile."

Charlie Ronkos, Director of TCP1 and incoming EVP Exploration of NewCo commented: "This transaction allows TCP1 shareholders to maintain significant exposure at Cristina and Yecora, while also gaining exposure to two exciting new projects in an area of Chile where I have significant experience. Tim and his team are the right team with the right expertise to de-risk these highly prospective assets in Mexico and Chile. The Concurrent Financing will provide us with the necessary resources to leverage our strong operational track record to deliver value for all of our shareholders. We now look forward to commencing our exploration programs over what will be a very active and exciting 2024 for our stakeholders."

John Graham, Director and President of TCP1 commented: "We would like to thank the shareholders of TCP1 for their continued support from inception to today. We are very excited to partner with an experienced team, with a long track record of shareholder returns, to create value for all shareholders over the long term. We would also like to specifically thank Charlie Ronkos for his partnership throughout the existence of this endeavor and to see his continued involvement in NewCo."

About TCP1

TCP1 is a private mineral exploration company incorporated under the laws of Ontario and is based in Toronto, Ontario. TCP1 in an exploration and development company that owns 100% of the Cristina project located in Chihuahua State, Mexico and 100% of the Yecora project located in Sonora State, Mexico.

The Cristina deposit is an epithermal to mesothermal vein system where the mineralization is predominantly gold and silver, with lesser base metal values. Mineralization is hosted in multiple outcropping quartz veins that are frequently greater than 10 metres in width, and extend for a currently known strike length of up to 5 km. Only one vein, the Guadalupe vein has been drilled to a density sufficient for a resource estimate, leaving considerable potential to add resources in at least four other parallel mineralized vein structures discovered to date. Cristina is similar to other active mines in the region, including Fresnillo's San Julian and La Cienega mines, as well as First Majestic's Tayoltita/San Dimas mine.

The Yecora project is located in the Laramide copper belt that extends from Arizona into northwestern Mexico and consists of multiple tourmaline breccia bodies carrying copper-silver-molybdenum mineralization, and high-grade copper-silver veins. The Yecora deposit is immediately adjacent to the active Minera Alamos Santana gold mine and several other copper and gold deposits that could provide opportunities for regional consolidation.

Atacama Copper and TCP1 intend to provide additional details regarding the Cristina and Yecora projects, including initial estimates of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101") compliant mineral resources, in separate news releases in the near-term.

Terms of the Proposed Transaction

Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Letter of Intent, the Company and TCP1 will negotiate and enter into a definitive agreement incorporating the principal terms of the Proposed Transaction as described in the Letter of Intent on or before November 30, 2023 (the "Definitive Agreement"). The Letter of Intent is intended to be superseded by the Definitive Agreement.

Pursuant to the terms of the Proposed Transaction, the holders of the issued and outstanding common shares of TCP1 ("TCP1 Shares") are anticipated to receive approximately 388.89 common shares of Atacama Copper ("ACOP Shares") for each one (1) TCP1 Share held (the "Exchange Ratio"), implying a price of C$70.00 per TCP1 Share based on a deemed price of C$0.18 per ACOP Share. An aggregate of approximately 250.1 million ACOP Shares will be issued to TCP1 shareholders, which includes shares that will be issued in connection with the cashless exercise of certain TCP1 options. All other remaining options that may be outstanding at the time of completing the Proposed Transaction shall be exchanged in accordance with the Exchange Ratio for similar securities to purchase ACOP Shares on substantially the same terms and conditions. The Proposed Transaction will be structured as an arrangement, amalgamation, share exchange or other similar structure based on the advice of the respective advisors of TCP1 and Atacama Copper.

The completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of terms and conditions, including without limitation the following: (a) negotiation and execution of the Definitive Agreement; (b) the parties obtaining all necessary consents, orders, regulatory and shareholder approvals, including the approval of TSXV; (c) TCP1 providing a NI 43-101 compliant report for its material properties; (d) there being no material adverse changes in respect of either the Company or TCP1; (e) closing of the Concurrent Financing; and other standard conditions of closing for a transaction in the nature of the Proposed Transaction. There can be no assurance that a Definitive Agreement will be successfully negotiated or entered into or that all of the necessary approvals will be obtained or that all conditions of closing will be satisfied.

The Proposed Transaction will require the approval of the shareholders of the Company pursuant to TSXV policies, which may be obtained by way of the written consent of a majority of shareholders. Atacama Copper and TCP1 are arm's length parties and, accordingly, the Proposed Transaction is not a related party transaction.

Upon completion of the Proposed Transaction, it is anticipated that the Resulting Issuer will be listed as a Tier 1 mining issuer on the TSXV and it will continue trading under its current name and ticker symbol. Prior to completion of the Concurrent Financing, shareholders of TCP1 will own approximately 87% of the Resulting Issuer and existing shareholders of Atacama Copper will own approximately 13% of the Resulting Issuer on an undiluted basis. After completion of the Concurrent Financing, and assuming minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000 thereunder, shareholders of TCP1 will own approximately 73% of the Resulting Issuer, existing shareholders of Atacama Copper will own approximately 11% of the Resulting Issuer, and subscribers in the Concurrent Financing will own approximately 16% of the Resulting Issuer, on an undiluted basis.

Board of Directors, Management and Insiders

The board of directors of the Resulting Issuer upon completion of the Proposed Transaction will consist of Tim Warman, Charlie Ronkos, Scott Hicks and two additional nominees to be agreed upon by Atacama Copper and TCP1, all subject to the approval of such nominees by the TSXV. The officers of the Resulting Issuer shall consist of Tim Warman (President and CEO), Charlie Ronkos (EVP Exploration) and such other officers to be confirmed in the Definitive Agreement.

Concurrent Financing

Prior to the closing of the Proposed Transaction, Atacama Copper shall complete the Concurrent Financing, and has entered into an engagement letter with Cormark Securities Inc. and Stifel Canada, as co-lead agents, for the private placement of Subscription Receipts at a price of C$0.18 per Subscription Receipt for minimum net proceeds of $10,000,000, each of which will automatically convert into common shares of the Resulting Issuer in connection with the consummation of the Proposed Transaction. The net proceeds of the Concurrent Financing will be used to advance exploration programs across the combined portfolio, with particular focus on Cristina and Yecora, and for general corporate purposes.

The gross proceeds of the Concurrent Financing less certain expenses of the Agents (such net amount, the "Escrowed Proceeds") will be placed into escrow and released to the Company, subject the completion or satisfaction of all escrow release conditions, including, among other things, the receipt of all required corporate, shareholder and regulatory approvals in connection with the Proposed Transaction (collectively, the "Escrow Release Conditions") to be set out in a subscription receipt agreement to be entered into on or about the closing date of the Concurrent Financing between the Company, the Agents and an escrow agent (the "Escrow Agent"). Provided that the Escrow Release Conditions are satisfied or waived (where permitted) prior to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on March 31, 2024 (the "Escrow Release Deadline"), the Agents' fees will be released to the Agents from the Escrowed Proceeds, and the balance of the Escrowed Proceeds (less certain expenses of the Escrow Agent) will be released to the Company and the Subscription Receipts shall be automatically converted into the common shares of the Resulting Issuer. In the event that the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied by the Escrow Release Deadline, the Escrowed Proceeds will be returned to the holders of the Subscription Receipts and the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled.

The Concurrent Financing is being conducted in all provinces of Canada pursuant to private placement exemptions and in such other jurisdictions as are agreed to by the Company and the Agents. The Concurrent Financing remains subject to the approval of the TSXV.

The securities to be offered in the Concurrent Financing have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Indicative Timeline

Pursuant to the Letter of Intent, the parties have agreed to negotiate the terms and conditions of the Definitive Agreement by November 30, 2023, or such other date as may be mutually agreed by the parties. Subject to satisfying all necessary conditions and receipt of all required approvals, the parties are targeting completion of the Proposed Transaction by late 2023.

Further Information

The parties will provide further details in respect of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing by way of updating press releases as the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing progress.

All information contained in this press release with respect to Atacama and TCP1 (but excluding the terms of the Proposed Transaction) was supplied by the parties respectively, for inclusion herein, without independent review by the other party, and each party and its directors and officers have relied on the other party for any information concerning the other party.

Completion of the Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions, including but not limited to, acceptance of TSXV and if applicable pursuant to the requirements of TSXV, disinterested shareholder approval. Where applicable, the Proposed Transaction cannot close until the required shareholder approval is obtained. There can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as proposed or at all.

Investors are cautioned that, except as disclosed in the filing statement to be prepared in connection with the Proposed Transaction, any information released or received with respect to the Proposed Transaction may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative.

Sponsorship of the Proposed Transaction may be required by TSXV unless an exemption or waiver from this requirement is obtained in accordance with the policies of TSXV. The Company intends to apply for an exemption from TSXV's sponsorship requirement.

TSX Venture Exchange has in no way passed upon the merits of the Proposed Transaction and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

Qualified Person

The technical information contained in this news release related to the TCP1 properties has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Charlie Ronkos, MMSA, Chief Operating Officer of TCP1 and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101. The technical information related to the Atacama Copper properties has been reviewed and approved by Mr. Tim Warman, P.Geo., Atacama Copper's CEO and a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101.

About Atacama Copper Corporation

Atacama Copper is a resource company focusing on acquiring, exploring, and developing base and precious metals properties in in the Americas. It is committed to advancing the exploration and development of its Placeton/Caballo Muerto copper project in Chile while looking to increase its asset portfolio through the acquisition and development of other high-value exploration, development, and production opportunities. Atacama's Placeton/Caballo Muerto project hosts several porphyry copper targets situated between the giant Relincho and El Morro/La Fortuna copper-gold deposits of the Nueva Union joint venture between Teck and Newmont Mining.

Additional Information  Please Contact

For more information, please contact:

Tim Warman

Chief Executive Officer and Director

Atacama Copper Corporation

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the successful completion of the Proposed Transaction and the Concurrent Financing; the use of proceeds from the Concurrent Financing; the Resulting Issuer's mineral properties; future development plans; and the business and operations of the Resulting Issuer after the Proposed Transaction. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: failure to satisfy or waive all applicable conditions to the completion of the Proposed Transaction (including receipt of all necessary shareholder, stock exchange and regulatory approvals or consents, and the absence of material changes with respect to the parties and their respective businesses); inability to close the Concurrent Financing on the proposed terms or at all, the synergies expected from the Proposed Transaction not being realized; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of gold, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to Chilean Peso exchange rate); change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining (including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of and increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties.

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. Atacama Copper disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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 news release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Kingsmen Resources Ltd. (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) ("Kingsmen" or the "Company") is pleased to report initial results from its ongoing regional surface sampling program on the Las Coloradas project, located 30km from Hildago de Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico. Portions of the Solidad structure were mined by ASARCO (American Smelting and Refining Company), the U.S. based subsidiary of Grupo Mexico in the period 1944 to 1952. Kingsmen's current regional sampling program is focused on areas outside of the structure historically mined by ASARCO.

The Las Coloradas mineralization is located on the southeast flank of a prominent aeromagnetic high interpreted to be a buried felsic intrusive body. The felsic intrusives associated with the Soledad and Soledad II structures are likely linked to this body and the setting is favourable for porphyry, skarn and epithermal vein mineralization.

Regional prospecting and sampling to the west, north and northeast of the Solidad structures has identified elevated to anomalous silver values associated with a previously unrecognized approximately 2,500 meter long, NE-trending zone of structures (Figure 1). As well, a number of other sites with anomalous silver values were identified.

Pathfinder element concentrations occurring in variable combinations in the areas of interest include Au, As, Sb, Pb, Zn, Cu, Hg, Mo, Te and Tl. High pathfinder element concentrations are interpreted to reflect proximity to mineralizing fluid flow. The different combinations of pathfinder elements likely represent different stages or pulses of mineralization. Their distributions provide evidence for district-wide, structurally controlled mineralization.

Scott Emerson, President commented: "This data provides valuable information as we work on interpreting the controls on mineralization, and planning future drill programs. New and extensive areas of structures and showings have been identified. Importantly, the pathfinder elements are indicating potential for district-wide mineralization."

Field Update

Kingsmen's field crews are currently active on the project following up the very positive results from the summer field program. Additional results will be released once received and assessed. Kingsmen has a high level of optimism for additional discoveries in these previously unexplored areas.







Laboratory

All samples were analyzed by ALS Global in Chihuahua, Mexico, an ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015 certified laboratory. Eighty samples were analyzed by ICP-MS (51 elements). Over grade Ag, Au, Pb and Zn were assayed.

Qualified Person

Kieran Downes, Ph.D., P.Geo., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure set out in this news release.

About Kingsmen Resources

In line with Kingsmen's organic-growth strategy, the Company's focus is on exploration and development, and is currently focused on district-scale exploration for high -margin metallic mineral deposits in the prolific mining districts of Parral Mexico. In addition, the Company has a 1% NSR on the Los Ricos North project in Mexico operated by GoGold Resources Inc. The Company's leaders have extensive experience in the mining and financial sectors. Kingsmen is a publicly-traded company (TSXV: KNG) (OTCQB: KNGRF) and is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia.

On behalf of the Board, Signed: "Scott Emerson"

Scott Emerson,

President & CEO Phone:

6046859316

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statement:

All statements, trend analysis and other information contained in this press release about anticipated future events or results constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "expect" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including, without limitation, statements regarding the completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project and receipt of regulatory approval, are forward-looking statements. Although Kingsmen believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and/or information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements since Kingsmen can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. 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, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in Kingsmen's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators, and assumptions made with regard to: Kingsmen's ability to make the required payments under the definitive agreements; and Kingsmen's ability to secure the necessary regulatory approvals. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Kingsmen's expectations include risks associated with the business of Kingsmen; risks related to the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions to the closing of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; non-completion of the acquisition of the Las Coloradas Project; risks related to exploration and potential development of the Las Coloradas Project; business and economic conditions in the mining industry generally; fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; uncertainty as to timely availability of permits and other governmental approvals; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time and additional risks identified in Kingsmen's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Kingsmen does not undertake any obligation to update forward looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements
Five Myanmar nationals asked the Philippines on Wednesday to investigate alleged war crimes committed by 10 serving or former members of Myanmar's military against the mainly Christian Chin minority.

Filipino lawyers representing the Myanmar nationals told reporters they lodged the "landmark" criminal complaint against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and nine others at the Department of Justice in Manila.

They asked prosecutors to open an investigation into alleged war crimes under a Philippine law penalising "crimes against international humanitarian law, genocide, and other crimes against humanity".

The five Myanmar nationals are from western Chin state, but now live in Australia, Britain, Canada and India. They were at the justice department in Manila.

"This is a landmark suit because this is the very first time that such a case is being brought before the Philippines," Romel Bagares, one of the lawyers, told reporters.

Justice Secretary Crispin Remulla said his department would "evaluate" the complaint, which he described as "very novel".

"If this is sufficient in form and substance, that's the time when we will require the respondents to answer these complaints," Remulla told reporters.

Among the accused is Chin Chief Minister Vung Suan Thang, who is a former military officer. The others are serving members of the military.

The complaint alleged that members of Myanmar's military killed a pastor and two church elders in Thantlang town, Chin, in September 2021.

It also accused the 10 of "intentionally" directing attacks on churches and the burning of hundreds of houses in the same town between August 2021 and June 2022.

They also allegedly blocked relief supplies from reaching people in Chin state in the aftermath of Cyclone Mocha in May.

- 'Truly historic day' -

Philippine law allows for the prosecution of war crimes committed elsewhere.

One of the stipulations of the law is that the accused must be present in the Philippines.

According to Gilbert Andres, another Filipino lawyer representing the Myanmar nationals, if the Philippine justice department were to decide to mount a case against the 10 accused, it could issue subpoenas to Myanmar's Central Authority or go through diplomatic channels.

The toppling of Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government in a 2021 coup sparked a huge backlash and the military junta is now battling opponents across swaths of Myanmar.

Some of the bloodiest fighting has been happening in Christian-majority areas, including in Chin state.

"This is a truly historic day," Salai Ling, one of the five complainants and also of the Chin Human Rights Organization, told reporters in Manila.

"We are really hoping that with the solidarity and support from the Filipino people and people in the ASEAN region, that we will be able to get some form of justice for the atrocities that our people suffered."

Myanmar and the Philippines belong to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The regional bloc's efforts to defuse the Myanmar crisis have been fruitless so far.

The Philippines is now the subject of an international human rights probe, with the Hague-based International Criminal Court investigating "possible crimes against humanity" during former president Rodrigo Duterte's deadly drugs crackdown.

In July, President Ferdinand Marcos said the Philippines was "done talking with the ICC" but would continue to question the tribunal's jurisdiction.
The Sudanese army said Wednesday it has accepted an invitation to resume US- and Saudi-brokered talks aimed at ending more than six months of war with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

The war between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy, RSF commander Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, has killed more than 9,000 people and displaced over 5.6 million since it erupted in April.

Previous mediation attempts have only yielded brief truces, and even those were systematically violated.

In a statement, the army said it had accepted an invitation from Saudi Arabia and the United States to travel to the Saudi city of Jeddah "out of a belief by the armed forces that negotiations is one of the means that may end the conflict".

"The resumption of negotiations does not mean a halt of the national battle of dignity, for the defeat of the rebel militia," the statement added.

US officials involved in the Sudan crisis said that the talks, the first since diplomacy aimed at ending the fighting collapsed in June, would resume Thursday and aim for a ceasefire but that it was premature to discuss a lasting political solution.

"The new round will focus on ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and achieving ceasefires and other confidence-building measures," a State Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Another official told reporters that the United States hoped for a "constructive spirit" in the talks, saying, "There is no acceptable military solution to this conflict."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who helped mediate at the start of the crisis, finalised details on the talks on a recent visit to Saudi Arabia as part of a trip largely devoted to the Israel-Hamas war, US officials said.

Also participating in the Jeddah talks will be representatives of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African regional bloc led by close US partner Kenya.

- 'No respite' for six months -

The war in Sudan has decimated already fragile infrastructure, shuttered 80 percent of the country's hospitals and plunged millions into acute hunger.

"For six months, civilians -- particularly in Khartoum, Darfur and Kordofan -- have known no respite from bloodshed and terror," said UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths.

In the western region of Darfur, ethnically motivated attacks by the RSF and allied militias have triggered a new investigation by the International Criminal Court into possible war crimes.

According to the UN, Sudan -- where many had fled their homes in previous conflicts -- is now the largest internal displacement crisis in the world with over 7.1 million people displaced within the country.

The UN's Griffiths said that six months into the conflict, "basic services are crumbling", disease outbreaks are "stalking the country" and "aid workers continue to be stymied in reaching people in need".

A projection by the US's Johns Hopkins University indicated that "at least 10,000 children under five years of age may die by the end of 2023".

Two years ago, Burhan and Daglo led a coup on October 25, 2021 that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

They later fell out in a power struggle that erupted into all-out war on April 15.

The United States has called for a return to the democratic path but has not brought in civilians to participate in the Jeddah talks.

"They need more time to prepare, organise themselves internally," another US official said.
The Sudanese army and paramilitaries -- at war with each other for six months -- said Wednesday they had accepted an invitation to resume US- and Saudi-brokered negotiations.

Since April, the war between forces loyal to army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, who commands the Rapid Support Forces, has killed more than 9,000 people and displaced over 5.6 million.

Previous mediation attempts have only yielded brief truces, and even those were systematically violated.

In a statement, the army said it had accepted an invitation from Saudi Arabia and the United States to travel to the Saudi city of Jeddah "out of a belief by the armed forces that negotiations is one of the means that may end the conflict".

The RSF later said their delegation "arrived in Jeddah today", in hopes of "reaching a solution that will stop the war and end the suffering of our people."

But the army also said that "the resumption of negotiations does not mean a halt of the national battle of dignity, for the defeat of the rebel militia," in reference to the RSF, which said "our brave forces maintain full control on the battlefield".

Before the first round of the Jeddah talks were suspended, mediators had grown increasingly frustrated with both sides' reluctance to work towards a sustained truce.

Experts believed that Burhan and Daglo had opted for a war of attrition instead, hoping to extract greater concessions at the negotiating table later.

US officials said the talks would resume Thursday and aim for a ceasefire but that it was premature to discuss a lasting political solution.

"The new round will focus on ensuring unhindered humanitarian access and achieving ceasefires and other confidence-building measures," a State Department official said on condition of anonymity.

Another official told reporters that the United States hoped for a "constructive spirit" in the talks, saying, "there is no acceptable military solution to this conflict."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who helped mediate at the start of the crisis, finalised details on the talks on a recent visit to Saudi Arabia as part of a trip largely devoted to the Israel-Hamas war, US officials said.

Also participating in the Jeddah talks will be representatives of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African regional bloc led by close US partner Kenya.

- 'No respite' for six months -

The war in Sudan has decimated already fragile infrastructure, shuttered 80 percent of the country's hospitals and plunged millions into acute hunger.

"For six months, civilians -- particularly in Khartoum, Darfur and Kordofan -- have known no respite from bloodshed and terror," said UN humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths.

In the western region of Darfur, ethnically motivated attacks by the RSF and allied militias have triggered a new investigation by the International Criminal Court into possible war crimes.

According to the United Nations, Sudan -- where many had fled their homes in previous conflicts -- is now the largest internal displacement crisis in the world, with over 7.1 million people displaced within the country.

The UN's Griffiths said that six months into the conflict, "basic services are crumbling", disease outbreaks are "stalking the country" and "aid workers continue to be stymied in reaching people in need".

A projection by the US's Johns Hopkins University indicated that "at least 10,000 children under five years of age may die by the end of 2023".

Two years ago, Burhan and Daglo led a coup on October 25, 2021 that derailed a fragile transition to civilian rule.

They later fell out in a power struggle that erupted into all-out war on April 15.

The United States has called for a return to the democratic path but has not brought in civilians to participate in the Jeddah talks.

"They need more time to prepare, organise themselves internally," another US official said.
The Palestinian Authority's foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki on Wednesday met senior International Criminal Court officials as the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza continued to rage.

Maliki's flying visit to the world's war crimes court in The Hague came a day after he deplored inaction by the UN Security Council to stop "massacres" in Gaza by Israel, which has retaliated for a massive attack by Hamas that largely killed civilians.

"Today, Dr Riyad al-Maliki... visited the ICC and held meetings with the President, the Prosecutor and the Registrar of the Court," the ICC said in a statement.

The top Palestinian diplomat's visit was not announced to the media, but in a video released by the ICC he can be seen shaking hands with the court's president Piotr Hofmanski, chief prosecutor Karim Khan and registrar Osvaldo Zavala Giler before sitting down for a discussion.

The ICC has declined to comment on the details of Maliki's visit.

Maliki however is set to give a statement on Thursday morning at a press conference in The Hague.

Chief prosecutor Khan's office said earlier this month it was "continuously gathering information" in support of its probe into the Palestinian situation.

It opened a formal investigation in 2021 into the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories, including alleged crimes by Israeli forces and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups.

The prosecutor's office "put in place a dedicated team to advance the investigation in relation to the situation in the State of Palestine, the first time a fully resourced team had been established in relation to this situation," it said.

Set up in 2002, the ICC's is the only global independent tribunal to probe the world's worst crimes including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Israel, which is not a member of the ICC, has refused to cooperate with the probe or recognise its jurisdiction.
Iran on Wednesday accused Israel of carrying out a "genocide" against Palestinians as Israeli forces press on with a bombardment campaign of Gaza after deadly Hamas attacks on October 7.

Israel has heavily struck the Gaza Strip since Hamas gunmen stormed across its border with Israel and, according to Israeli officials, killed more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians.

The Hamas-controlled health ministry said on Wednesday that more than 6,500 people including 2,704 children have been killed in the narrow Palestinian territory since violence erupted.

"The attacks of the Zionist (Israeli) regime have reached an intensity that shows the goal is the mass killing of the Palestinian people in Gaza," Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian charged in a letter addressed to the United Nations human rights chief Volker Turk.

Remarks by Israeli officials and "the widespread and systematic attacks... in the Gaza Strip show that this is a campaign for the genocide of the Palestinian people", Amir-Abdollahian said in his letter, which the foreign ministry shared on social media.

Earlier on Wednesday, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused the United States of "directing" Israel's strikes on Gaza.

"America is a definite accomplice of criminals," said Khamenei during a speech in Tehran.

"The United States is in some way directing the crime that is being committed in Gaza."

Khamenei said the hands of Americans "were tainted with the blood of the oppressed, children, patients, women and others".

The United States, the sworn enemy of Iran, has sent two aircraft carriers into the eastern Mediterranean in a move it says is to deter Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah, both allies of Hamas, from getting involved in the Hamas-Israel war.

Washington has also confirmed it had sent a "few" military advisers to its close ally Israel.

Iran, which financially and militarily backs Hamas, hailed the October 7 attacks on Israel as a "success".

But the Islamic republic has insisted it was not involved in the onslaught, during which more than 220 people were also taken hostage, according to Israeli authorities.

On Tuesday, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Iran that the United States would respond "decisively" to any attack by Tehran proxies, as tensions rise over the conflict.

"The United States does not seek conflict with Iran. We do not want this war to widen," Blinken told a UN Security Council session.

"But if Iran or its proxies attack US personnel anywhere, make no mistake. We will defend our people, we will defend our security -- swiftly and decisively," he said.

The Islamic republic lashed out at Blinken for what it said was his attempt to "wrongly place the blame on Iran".

"Iran categorically rejects these groundless allegations," Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations Amir Saeid Iravani said.
There is a man sitting behind me in this courtroom, said lead defence lawyer Cyril Laucci, who was utterly unknown until his name was first mentioned in a 2007 arrest warrant by the Hague court. During the Darfur conflict in the early 2000s, Ali Muhammad Ali Abd-Al-Rahman ran a pharmacy in a remote village in western Sudan, continued Laucci. A small pharmacy he emphasized, drawing lines in the air.

Abd-Al-Rahman, now 74, is accused on 31 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly committed between 2003 and 2004 in West Darfur, Sudan. According to the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor, he was a leading member of the Janjaweed government-backed militia, which is accused of mass killings and rapes in the counter-insurgency called by former President Omar al-Bashir against central and sub-Saharan African rebels. The defendant is suspected of passing information and orders between the central government and the militia, and of participating in some attacks against the civilians.

His trial began in April 2022, two years after he surrendered himself voluntarily to the ICC. It now counts 725 participating victims. The defendant pleaded not-guilty to all charges. This is the first ICC case for crimes committed in Sudan, which is not a state party to the Court. But in 2005, the situation in Darfur was referred to the Court by the UN Security Council. In 2010, the United Nations estimated that some 300,000 people had died and 2.7 million had been displaced since the start of the conflict in 2003.

When on April 15 this year violence erupted once again in Sudan and spread to Darfur, ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan awaited a few months to point out that the Court has jurisdiction over Darfur and to declare on July 13 that his team has already started investigating. He added that they are looking into allegations of looting and judicial killings, extrajudicial killings, burnings of homes, not only in West Darfur but also in its northern part.

We see the same horrors, same crimes perpetrated now as in the 2003 and 2004 conflict, Laucci said in court, turning towards the gallery. The ongoing conflict has represented a serious challenge to the defence investigations, he explained, adding to insufficient cooperation from the Sudanese authorities.

Lack of cooperation with Sudan

The defence received no cooperation from the Sudanese authorities during our investigations, said Laucci. His complaints are two-fold. First, Sudan never provided some key documents requested by the defence, such as the civil status, and the military and criminal records. These documents could contain information regarding the nickname Ali Kushayb and the defendants alibi for two of the four crime locations, added Laucci. According to the lawyer, this lack of cooperation compromises the fairness of the trial. He therefore called for his client to be acquitted of all charges.

Second, getting visas has been problematic. The defence team was only granted a 30-day visa limited to the area of Khartoum, where they went in June 2022. But, he stressed, the capital remains far away from the town of Garsila, where Abd-Al-Rahman lived and worked. This made it hard to find childhood friends or costumers from his pharmacy who could testify in court.

Laucci stressed how the Office of the Prosecutor was allowed to carry out multiple missions to Sudan from 2005 to 2023 and could cooperate with organizations who work on the ground in Darfur. He also argued that the Office of the Prosecutor spent an astronomical sum of 39 million euros on the Sudan investigation from 2005 to 2022, compared to the 75 thousand granted to the defence and once extended.

Sudan is not a state party to the court, continued Laucci, nor has it signed a regularly ratified cooperation agreement for the court to investigate in its territory. And since it is now plunged into a new armed conflict, the defence has limited to no communication with the witnesses, who often do not even own a phone, making it impossible to implement the slightest witness protection on the territory, said Laucci.

I am not Ali Kushayb

The 56 witnesses who have already appeared before the ICC during the prosecutions phase testified to the crimes that civilians of the Fur communities suffered, including murder, looting, destruction of property and livestock, rape, torture, forced transfer of population, and cruel treatment. Some of them connected these crimes directly to the defendant.

The defence said it will not focus on the nature of the crimes, as their client can only speak of the lack of connection with the charges. Over the next few weeks, they announced 14 witnesses, including expert witnesses, to support the three following lines of defence.

First, that the man sitting in court is not and has never been known as Ali Kushayb. Associate defence lawyer Iain Edwards recalled his clients first words as he appeared before the judges: I am not Ali Kushayb. His unambiguous denial that he is Ali Kushayb could not have been made clearer and raised earlier," said Edwards, and listed 10 witnesses who will testify before the court that they had never heard of this alias before the arrest warrant. They have all known the defendant from either his private or professional life.

Second, trying to demonstrate that he could not possibly have been a militia leader. The lawyers pointed to his career in the health service department of the armed forces, where he reached the rank of warrant officer, his retirement in the 1990s and the opening of his pharmacy. Then, after the civil war, they said he has joined the Central Reserve Police forces. Both Laucci and Edwards asked why coming from this background their client could have been a militia leader. Abd-Al-Rahman smiled wrily.

The defence will also ask witnesses to define the Janjaweed militias position within the Sudanese military landscape. The title of aqid al-ogada, colonel of colonels, that was attributed to the defendant by the prosecution will also be explained. Edwards said that witnesses will tell how it bears more of a tribal than a military function in Sudanese society.

Third, witnesses will also go into the details of Sudanese law, said Laucci. According to the lawyer, crimes against humanity and war crimes were not included in the countrys laws at the time of the events. Sudan only codified them in 2007. The element of knowledge of the crime is missing, he added. This third line of defence is rather theoretical, he added, as the defence denies Abd-Al-Rahman carried out any crimes.

On Monday October 23, the first witness in the defence case appeared before the chamber, in closed session. Defence witnesses are expected to testify until around early December.
WASHINGTON  In the midst of two active and potentially world-changing conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, the U.S. hopes to find at least a small measure of common ground with China as China's top diplomat visits Washington this week.

Over three days of meetings that were scheduled to begin Thursday evening, top Biden administration officials, including possibly the president himself, will press Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the importance of China stepping up its role on the world stage if it wants to be considered a responsible major international player.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, are expected to urge China to play a constructive role in both the Israel-Hamas and Russia-Ukraine wars. Those meetings could set the stage for a summit between President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping next month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders gathering in San Francisco.

The U.S. is disappointed with China over its support for Russia in the war against Ukraine and its relative silence on the Middle East. In addition, the world's two largest economies are at odds on issues such as human rights, climate change, Taiwan, the South China Sea and North Korea.

Still, both sides have expressed a willingness to talk with each other since Blinken canceled a planned visit to China in February after a Chinese spy balloon was shot down over the U.S., which marked a low point in recent relations.

In the months that followed that crisis, however, Blinken rescheduled his trip and went to China in June. He was followed in quick succession by Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, climate envoy John Kerry and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

In addition, Sullivan met with Wang in Malta in mid-September ahead of Blinken's discussions with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng that month on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Blinken spoke just last week with Wang about the Israel-Hamas crisis.

The goal, according to U.S. officials, is to set the stage for another Biden-Xi summit at which the two leaders could explore cooperation or at least easing outright hostility on the most pressing matters of the day.

"Wang Yi's visit will serve as one of the final touch points in laying the groundwork" for the Biden-Xi meeting, said Ryan Hass, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institute, a Washington-based think tank. "Wang's meetings in Washington will set the contours for the topics the two leaders will discuss when they meet in November."

"It opens the possibility of the world's two largest powers pursuing coordinated efforts to limit escalation or expansion of violence in Ukraine and the Middle East," he said.

Yun Sun, director of the China Program at the Stimson Center, another Washington think tank, said Wang's trip signals that the Xi-Biden summit is almost certain.

"Wang is here to pave the ground for Xi's San Francisco trip. That's the core focus of the trip. It means issues will be negotiated, solutions will be discussed and details will be deliberated and inked," Sun said. "The APEC summit is 20 days away, so time is of the essence. His trip means that Xi is coming. Xi's coming means meeting with Biden. The Xi-Biden summit means efforts to stabilize bilateral ties."

Scott Kennedy, senior adviser and trustee chair in Chinese business and economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said it is important for Wang and the Americans to discuss points of contention in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere but that it is unlikely the two sides will reach much agreement.

However, Wang's trip could yield results such as additional direct flights between the two countries, visas for more journalists and even agreements on climate change and resumption of high-level military dialogue, Kennedy said.

The Chinese president last came to the U.S. in 2017, when former President Donald Trump hosted him at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida.

Wang's trip is one of a string of meetings and activities to warm up Xi's visit to the U.S.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is visiting China this week, had a surprise meeting with Xi on Wednesday in Beijing. The Chinese president told the governor that "the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more," according to the official news agency Xinhua.

This month, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led a delegation of six senators to China in the first visit by U.S. lawmakers since 2019. Schumer was also received by Xi.

The U.S.-China relationship began to sour in 2018 when the Trump administration slapped hefty tariffs on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. It deteriorated further over a range of issues, including rights abuses, the South China Sea, Taiwan, technology and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Yang Se Jong is currently among the most talked-about K-drama actors after landing the lead role in Netflix's "Doona."

Taking on the role of engineering student Lee Won Joon, the 30-year-old actor captivates viewers with his effortless charm and biy next door looks as he teams up with Bae Suzy.

Their on-screen chemistry surely made the viewers' hearts race, and other than that, fans got curious to know more about Yang Se Jong.

Yang Se Jong Dating Status 2023

In his interview with Elle Korea, Yang Se Jong briefly talked about his personal life.

Although he didn't say if he was currently dating or seeing someone special, the actor was asked about his ideal type.

READ MORE: Suzy's 'Doona!' Earns Spot on Netflix's Ranking Despite Conflicting Reviews

According to him, it's all about substance, and the way they communicate and mesh well together is one of the key factors that he looks for in a woman.

"Even if we're simply speaking about unimportant things, I sometimes come to think, 'Oh, this is weird. Why is our conversation flowing so greatly?' That's when I fall for them," he said, as obtained by SBS Star, adding, "I think it's when I can emotionally relate to them."

Interestingly, there were no records of Yang Se Jong's past relationships, so this means that he is a very private person or doesn't prioritize relationships at the moment.

Yang Se Jong's Working Relationship with Bae Suzy

"Doona" is Yang Se Jong's first project after completing his military service.

Besides it, this is also his first time working with Bae Suzy and director Lee Jeong Hyo, who also helmed "Crash Landing on You" and "Romance is a Bonus Book."

Other than the amazing plot and heartfelt story of Lee Doona and Lee Won Joon, viewers were drawn to the duo's on-screen chemistry.

In the same interview, Yang Se Jong dishes on his working relationship with his co-stars, especially Bae Suzy.

"With all the actors I've ever worked with, I would almost always get these hard-to-explain complicated feelings while acting my part with them," he said, adding, "But I would usually just ignore those feelings, because I feel like I would go too far off from the script if I expressed them."

Yang Se Jong Instagram

Other than Yang Se Jong's dating status, fans are also curious to know his personal SBS.

Interestingly, the actor recently launched his personal Instagram.

Among his first few posts are the behind-the-scenes stories in "Doona."

As of this writing, Yang Se Jong's Instagram followers are at 344,000 and counting, which also includes Bae Suzy.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: 'Doona' Star Yang Se Jong Goes to Great Lengths to Look 10 Years Younger Than Bae Suzy

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Zambian police arrest opposition leader Sean Tembo pic.twitter.com/owL80mNJNo  Bulawayo24 News (@Bulawayo24News) October 26, 2023

Zambian police have taken opposition Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) President, Sean Tembo, into custody on charges related to hate speech. Mr. Tembo is accused of posting inflammatory remarks on his Facebook page under the name "SEAN E. TEMBO."The arrest was made following Mr. Tembo's failure to respond to a police call-out issued on October 23, according to Zambia Police Deputy Public Relations Officer Danny Mwale. The police reportedly attempted to contact Mr. Tembo's legal representation but received no response, despite assurances that he would cooperate with law enforcement.In their efforts to detain the opposition leader, police visited Mr. Tembo's residence in the Ngwerere area yester morning. Mr. Tembo allegedly locked himself inside, prompting the officers to take action to gain entry and make the arrest.In a separate incident, former Defence Permanent Secretary Stardy Mwale, who also serves as the Patriotic Front Copperbelt Province Chairperson, has been arrested in connection with seditious practices. Mr. Mwale is accused of posting an audio message on various social media platforms, instructing millers in the country to cease production of mealie meal for 30 days as a means to incite a revolt against the government.This arrest of prominent figures has drawn mixed reactions, with some expressing concern about the state of human rights and justice in Zambia. Fred M'membe, in a statement, decried the alleged torture and mistreatment of Sean Tembo upon his arrest, stating that such actions should not be tolerated. Calls for justice and accountability have resonated in the wake of these developments.
Proving the title of an "Action King," Kim Nam Gil is heading back to the filming set to work on his new action-thriller series with Netflix. He is even confirmed to collaborate with this K-actor!

Keep on reading to know more about the actor's forthcoming drama.

Netflix Teams Up Kim Nam Gil & Kim Young Kwang in Action-Thriller Series 'Trigger'

On October 25, Netflix confirmed the production of its original series "Trigger" and unveiled a casting lineup that will raise viewers' expectations. Headlining the project is none other than Kim Nam Gil. After his work "Song of the Bandits," the veteran actor is returning to Netflix with another collaboration.

Adding to the excitement of the audience, the award-winning actor will team up with Kim Young Kwang. The two are known for their remarkable performances in their individual projects and to see them in one frame is already a big anticipation for many.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: Kim Nam Gil Shares Difficulties Filming Action Scenes in 'Song of the Bandits'

"Trigger" is an action-disaster thriller series that features the story of two men holding guns for respective reasons amid the delivery of illegal guns of unknown origin in South Korea, which is known to be a gun-free country.

'Trigger' Expects to Feature Unique Narrative Among Global Viewers

The soon-to-release drama which will tackle various gun incidents is expected to increase the viewers' expectations as gun possession is legally prohibited in South Korea, it is said to surprise global fans with its fresh setting and narrative.

In addition, the strong lineup will add a sense of immersion to the work. Kim Nam Gil, who showed impressive character transformations in various projects such as "The Fiery Priest," "Through the Darkness," "Island," and more, is possibly one of the key figures that will make "Trigger" a success.

Bringing a new character to life and outstanding action scenes are some of the things that the viewers are already looking forward to watching.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Kim Young Kwang Wants To Do Rom-Com With Lee Sung Kyung? Here's What The Actor Said

Kim Young Kwang, has established a great portfolio from his solid works such as "Somebody," "Call It Love," "Mission: Possible," "Pinocchio," "Good Doctor," "On Your Wedding Day," and more is ready to show fresh performances with Kim Nam Gil.

Kim Nam Gil & Kim Young Kwang's 'Trigger' to Premiere in 2024

The highly-anticipated action series is already garnering attention as it combines a powerful duo, who both have respectable images as great actors. Their wit, action stunts, and acting skills will boost the fun of the project.

The production is already in the production stage and will start filming in earnest. It has been said that Netflix's "Trigger" might premiere sometime in 2024.

What can you say about Kim Nam Gil and Kim Young Kwang's drama ateam-up? Share your thoughts/replies in the comments!

For more K-Drama, K-Movie, and celebrity news and updates, keep your tabs open here at KDramaStars.

KDramaStars owns this article.

Shai Collins wrote this.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Today, His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa will preside over the handover ceremony of the China-aided New Parliament building project in Mt Hampden.Zimbabwe's new parliament gives an architectural nod to the country's famous ancient ruins.The new $200 million Zimbabwean parliament, which opened last year is a gift, with no loans attached from China.
By Paul Adude | Monitor

Over 1,000 students have graduated from Nkumba University on October 26.

The Vice Chancellor of the University Prof Jude Lubega said 1,857 students graduated in different disciplines including Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates.

53 percent of the graduates are females while 47 percent are male.15 graduated with Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD), 236 with masters,185 post graduates, 997 bachelors, 247 diplomas and 177 certificates. Prof Lubega asked the graduates to continue learning and updating themselves with technological advancements in order to keep abreast with the current Artificial Intelligence led working environment after graduation.

With the evolving world, your are aware of Artificial Intelligence which is already with us here targeting the jobs which you are looking out for. Therefore, the ability for you to learn and relearn has never been more vital than in this 21st century. You have to keep abreast with the current environment and adapt where necessary with the skills you have been equipped with, Prof Lubega said during the 25th Nkumba University Graduation Ceremony held at the University main campus along Entebbe-Kampala Road.

Prof Lubega also appealed to government to grant private learning institutions eligibility to access government funds. Read more
A self-confessed murderer has had his 20-year jail term reduced after appealing it on grounds that it was harsh and manifestly excessive.

Jackson Masereka was convicted of murder and sentenced to 20 years and 9 months imprisonment under a plea bargain in June 2014.

The prosecution stated that the deceased, Nabasa Benjamin, was a casual laborer at a farm in Kiduduma Village, Kitumbi Sub County, Mubende District, and that he was murdered on the night of February 27, 2012.

The deceaseds body was examined, and it was established that he died of a spinal cord injury with consequent asphyxia.

The appellant, who was already the prime suspect, was arrested as he tried to flee the village. When the matter came up for hearing before the trial court on June 5, 2014, prosecution informed court that the appellant had entered into a plea bargain agreement.

The court admitted the agreement to the record after observing the necessary procedures attendant to the appellants constitutional rights. He endorsed the agreement and took his plea, upon which he pleaded guilty and was convicted on his own plea.

He appealed only the sentence, saying it was higher since the remand time was not deducted as agreed to under the plea bargain.

A three-justice panel of the Court of Appeal, led by Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, agreed with the convict and deducted the two years and three months he spent on remand before his conviction.
The Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb) has disclosed that two Senior Four candidates gave birth shortly before their Chemistry and Physics exams on Monday and Tuesday, respectively.

Ms Jenipher Kalule, the Uneb principal communications officer, stated that one of the candidates, hailing from Kibaale District, delivered a healthy baby boy about one hour before her examination.

The young mother is said to have named her new born after Uneb Execu- tive Director Daniel Odongo, and managed to sit her Physics paper.

The candidates delivered at 8am in the morning and shortly after, went to schools to write her next paper, scheduled for 9am,said Ms Kalule.

The second candidate, from Gulu, delivered via Caesarean section on Monday night and then appeared on Tues-

day morning to write her Chemistry eam.

Addressing journalists at the Uneb headquarters,Mr Odongo revealed that the two bring the total number of candidates who have given birth since UCE exams began last week to three. One candidate in a school in Kampala gave birth to a baby girl last Thursday and subsequently continued with her exams.

According to the manual on the conduct of examinations, all these candidates qualify for an extra 45 minutes offered to special needs candidates .In case of these mothers, they are expected to take off time in the middle of the examination to breastfeed their babies,Ms Kalule said.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A suspect involved in an armed robbery, who was shot in the rib cage by security guards during the heist in Waterfalls, Harare, reportedly walked into a police station and provided false information, claiming he had been attacked by four unidentified men, according to court proceedings on Wednesday.The accused, identified as Godfrey Magadu, 31, hailing from Chemhondoro in Murewa, was unable to seek medical attention for his injury as hospitals turned him away, requiring a police report, as per the prosecution's account.Under the alias "Franklyin Mubaiwa," Magadu went to a police station in Southlea Park on October 23 and falsely asserted that he had been assaulted by unknown individuals in Hopely, who subsequently fled after shooting him.Sergeant Luke Deza, the officer on duty, accepted his account and issued a medical treatment request form, directing him to Sally Mugabe Hospital for care. Later, he was transferred to Parirenyatwa Hospital.However, within hours, detectives investigating the robbery at Chemical Merchants Company linked Magadu to the crime, leading to his arrest.Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa ordered his remand in custody while he was still in the hospital.Magadu is facing charges of armed robbery and knowingly providing false information to a public official.According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Magadu and his accomplices, armed with three shotguns, forcibly entered Chemical Merchants Company in Waterfalls and attempted to rob the establishment.They confronted security guards Given Nyakarare and Samson Mupandawana, who were employed by Gurus Security Company and armed with a revolver. The confrontation ensued with Mupandawana being taken into one of the offices, where he was assaulted in an attempt to extract information about the location of cash and valuables. However, Mupandawana managed to escape and hide behind the offices.The robbers then spotted Nyakarare outside and approached him. Nyakarare fired two shots at the robbers as they approached him.One of the robbers sustained a minor injury on the forehead from a bullet graze, while Magadu suffered a gunshot wound to the rib cage but escaped with the others.The assailants left one of their firearms behind and later abandoned Magadu about a kilometer from the crime scene before fleeing.In severe pain, Magadu went to the police station with a fabricated narrative, claiming to be a victim.
The Good Shepherd Centre in Kilkenny remains a staple of city life as its response to the ongoing homelessness crisis continues to grow in importance and the number of people seeking housing help rises locally.

According to the latest homelessness report from the Department of Housing, in the last full week of August there were 45 people accessing emergency accommodation locally. The figure is one fewer than the figure recorded for July (46) but still more than June (43) and May (35).

The registered charity, located on Church Lane in Kilkenny City, offers support to people across society experiencing or on the verge of homelessness, with no background or creed immune.

Since its inception, the centre has catered to people struggling with addiction, mental health issues, people with disabilities, the elderly, low-income families and people exiting state care, hospital, or prison. However, despite everyone carrying their own individual worries and concerns, the sterotypical view of who may or may not become homeless is far from the whole truth.

Thomas McNamara, a social worker originally from Dublin, was in a seemingly comfortable position six years ago, but life took a devastating turn.

"I had my own business in Kilkenny and I lost my business and my relationship at the time and I found myself sleeping in my car for two or three nights and then I was directed towards the Good Shepherd.

"That had a huge impact on me in that moment, standing on the doorstep, waiting to press the doorbell with a sense of hopelessness, but lucky for me I came in," he said.

The catastrophic period was damaging in a number of ways, as the loss of a home and job dealt a major dent to Thomas pride.

"I went from being what most people class as successful, having my own business, young kids and a happy life but things changed drastically and I entered into a supposed arena in homelessness that I had never seen before.

"When I came in I realised there was so many people here just like me, a realisation he feels much of society has failed to discover.

"One of the things I dislike is the image of homeless people as the old man and the dog in the doorway."

Thomas, who had no previous experiences of mental health issues, found himself trapped due to the hand life had dealt, but claims calling to the Good Shepherd was his first positive step in turning his life around.

"I was lucky at the time I was in the Good Shepherd, I had a really good key worker, who got me counselling in Teac Tom which put me in a position to rebuild my life. Luckily enough, when I left after about a year I got a job in a supermarket outside Kilkenny, went to college, got an honours degree in social care and just last week I got my keys to my home for life."

The social care worker now looks forward to an 'optimistic', 'stable' future where he can assist in combating the homeless crisis.
Aran Bakery and Bistro is a fusion of culture and flavours and it's no wonder with a husband-and-wife team at the hatch. Nicole Server-Pawlukojc is originally from the Philippines but has worked as a chef in Italy and Denmark. Her husband Bart Pawlukojc is Polish but raised in Ireland, he too has worked in Denmark.

They both have their hands full this weekend at Savour Kilkenny.

Dinner at Aran with locally sourced food. Photo by Ruth Caldor Potts

So, what does this fusion of love and food bring to Kilkenny? Thankfully the dynamic duo opened Aran Bakery and Bistro four years ago and it has gone from strength to strength. It has become one of the most popular artisan award winning Bistro and Bakery in Kilkenny.

As well as being a chef, Bart is an interior designer, a butcher specialising in Italian charcuterie and has an interest in fermenting. Nicole is a professional trained chef and has always been passionate about food. She initially trained as a chef in Italy and returned to the Philippines where she trained and worked as a Pastry Chef. Soon, she went to Denmark where she quickly got hired in some of the best restaurants in Denmark.

Together they decided to open a cafe with a small bakery in Kilkenny City, agreeing that would shine a spotlight on bread and local food, using the best ingredients from the South East and beyond. Here is a glimpse into their savoury world...

Aran Lemon & Raspberry Cube from Aran Bakery and Bistro

How did you two meet?

Nicole: We met in Denmark when we were both interns as chefs. On my first day I stood next to Bart.

Bart: It was love at first sight. We started living together after one week and I proposed after eight months. We got married in 2016.

Why train in Denmark?

Nicole: It was the place to go at the time. Denmark is such a melting pot of different cultures that people just want to work there. We worked with 12 different nationalities, and we had to make a family meal every day. So just from that one meal, you taste so many cultures and flavours that you would never have tasted before.

Bart: Denmark was all the rage. Chefs go there because restaurants are really good. Plus, Nordic cuisine was all the hype back in the day. There was a period when everybody went to Spain for El Bulli and then Japan for Jiro. Its designated travel for work experience based on food trends.

Why settled down in Kilkenny?

Bart: I was raised in Ireland. My family came here in the great Polish wave of 2004. We lived in Palmerstown and Greystones in Dublin before moving to Kilkenny for my sisters job.

Nicole: Ive been a nomad all my life until I met Bart. We visited Kilkenny on our honeymoon, and I liked it.

Where did you both work previously in Kilkenny before opening Aran?

Bart: My first job was in Lautrecs. I also worked in Zuni and Lyrath Estate.

Nicole: When we moved here, I needed to prove that I wasnt a burden to the State because I am a non-EU citizen. Bart was the head chef in Matt the Millers, and I was his second.

Aran Bakery and Bistro is one of a kind here in Kilkenny. Was it always the dream?

Nicole: No! The simple answer is that I cannot work for anybody because what I want to do is not something that anybody else is doing. I was mentally drained when I was restrained in what I could cook. So, I decided if I cant work for anyone, I would rather work for myself within my means! So, we asked each other what we could do?

We had savings for a house put aside so we decided to use it and we started to look at premises.

Bart: Opening something was always on the table, but we thought it was going to be way later down the line. When we found the premises on Barrack Street, every single business person advised us against it.

Nicole: There was only one person who told us to take it, that it was the perfect location and if we dont take it we are stupid. That was Seamus Sheridan from Sheridans Cheesemongers in Galway. Seamus is such a character, after seeing the first premises on Barrack Street, he wanted to know what was across the road. He recognised back then that the old vet shop would make a perfect premises for a bakery. Which we opened two years later.

Bart: To be honest Seamus Sheridan as well as Rod and Julie Calder-Potts were the most important people that have helped us throughout the years.

Everyone in Kilkenny remembers the queues outside Aran during the pandemic. It was crazy.

Bart: We didnt have a choice. We were only open for six months with 200 to our name. We didnt even have that month's rent for our home. We didnt have any back up, so it was live or die.

Nicole: When they announced we had to close, Bart and I took three days off to plan as closing was not an option for us. All our savings were in Aran, we could not stay shut. We had to think fast, so we decided to remodel our business structure and turn it into a takeaway slash bakery. We turned the little doggie door into a takeaway hatch. We just had to pivot.

Bart: It was just Nicole, one of our friends and me working on the reopening day. We thought that was plenty of people but we had no idea how busy we were going to be. We looked out the door and saw the queue and thought this is not going to work. I literally rang every single person I knew and asked if they were free because we just needed pairs of hands. Our coffee rep ended up doing coffee for us, but he couldnt believe what he got himself into!

Who gets the most stressed out of the two of you in the kitchen?

Nicole: Me. I stress more than Bart because I plan ahead. Im just a woman, I stress more!

Bart: Nicole stresses in advance, but I deal with the stressful situations.

Youve told me before that it cost you a lot of money to support local producers during the pandemic, but you still did it.

Nicole: Yes, because they are just like us. They dont have huge backers, otherwise they would have been left with nothing.

Bart: It wasnt a lot; it didnt change their lives, but it all helped.

Still to this day Aran is incredibly supportive of small producers. Who have you on your menu at the moment?

Nicole: From Kilkenny, we have Dizzy Goat Farm, Highbank Organic Orchards, Riversfield Farm, Bosco, Mooncoin Beetroot, Goatsbridge Trout, Oak Forest Mills, and Kells the Little Mill Company.

Bart: Theres loads more. All our eggs are from Ballon in Carlow, Lorraine's Country Kitchen and we also have a plan to make our own mozzarella in Knockdrinnas new cheese dairy.

Whats next for Aran?

Bart: We are going to renovate the Bistro and we want to create more space for summer outside dining. Everything is built here by us; everything is from Ikea, so we want to take it up another notch and make it more of a place for nighttime diners.

Nicole: For the daytime it's fine because it's very casual, but we need to lift the design so that we can also use it for evenings.

Can you give us any idea whats on your Savour seven course taster menu?

Bart: It's funny because the Savour dinner has been sold out for months, but I just literally wrote the menu today!

Nicole: This is how Bart operates!

Bart: Our diners will be treated to an experience that starts in San Sebastian, then we are moving into Greece before moving onto French dishes. Then we are moving to Italy, before moving back to Spain again, finishing with soft serve ice-cream which we are going to serve for one night only as Im borrowing the soft serve machine.

Nicole: This is all subject to change!!

At the end of a long day, what is your guilty pleasure food wise?

Bart: A pizza from Roccos in Bagenalstown.

Nicole: Nothing beats a Vermouth Martini on the rocks.

Dont miss Bart & Nicoles talk about FOODPRENEURS  GROWING YOUR FOOD BUSINESS ON The Savour Stage, Saturday, October 27 at 10am https://savourkilkenny.com


Students at Kilkenny Citys Loreto Secondary School are appealing for your support to help eradicate polio.

The students are taking part in the End Polio Now campaign, supported worldwide by Rotary International, to coincide with World Polio Day, which is marked this week.



For their part in the effort, the students will be selling crocus bulbs through shops and businesses in the city centre. The flowers, when they bloom, will be purple - the same colour used by medical teams to mark the finger of a child who has been immunised against polio.



The students have been busy, in recent weeks, making up pretty, purple packages of bulbs which are now on sale, costing 5 for ten or 10 for a parcel of 20.

Businesses in the city centre, including the Kilkenny People office, have stocks for sale.



The last case of polio in Ireland was recorded in 1984, however it still affects children in several countries. It is a paralysing, and potentially deadly, infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of five. One in every 200 polio infections leads to permanent paralysis. The virus spreads from person to person, typically in contaminated water.

However, Polio is a vaccine preventable disease and it is thanks to this vaccine it has been eradicated in Ireland, and most parts of the world.

The Interact Club at the Loreto is a school branch of Rotary Kilkenny. Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 35 years.

As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, they have reduced polio cases by 99.9% since the first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979.

Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to protect nearly three billion children in 122 countries from this disease. Rotarys advocacy efforts have played a role in decisions by governments to contribute more than $10 billion to the effort.

Today, polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan. But its crucial to continue working to keep other countries polio-free. If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years, polio could paralyse as many as 200,000 children each year. Just $3 will fully vaccinate a child against polio.
Staff and students at CBS Kilkenny are looking forward to building on the school's 'strong traditions' as works officially began on the school's new Dunningstown Road site on Monday.

Minister for Education, Norma Foley, announced that the Kilkenny school, currently based on James' Street in the city, would be one of three Kilkenny schools to receive funding as part of 'Project Nore' with a new school building that will cater for 1,000 students and include special classes for students with additional needs.

Works on the new site are expected to take 18 months.

In a statement released to Kilkenny Live on Wednesday, a school spokesperson stated: "CBS Secondary School Kilkenny has served the population of the city and surrounds for more than 160 years at its current location on Jamess Street in the heart of the city. This week work will commence on a new 1,000 student school at a greenfield site on Dunningstown road.

"This major building project which heralds a new and exciting chapter for the Community of CBS Secondary School Kilkenny is the culmination of many years of hard work by successive Boards of Management working closely with the Department of Education and the Edmund Rice Schools Trust. In addition, a large number of friends, parents and alumni of the school have provided very valuable support in a myriad of ways.

"CBS Secondary School Kilkenny has a proud tradition as an inclusive academic school with a unique ethos and tradition. The whole school community looks forward to building on the strong traditions of academic excellence and success in sport, music, STEM and the arts as preparations begin to move to Dunningstown road."

Principal, Tom Clarke, added: "The main focus for school management now is the development of the most modern and innovative facilities on the new extensive site which will provide for the holistic education of many more generations of young men from the city and the county of Kilkenny into the future."

The community of CBS Secondary School Kilkenny looks forward to joining the Dunningstown Road community and are heartened by the positive and supportive welcome and support received to date. A priority of the Board of Management will be to engage constructively with the Dunningstown residential and business communities into the future," Mr Clarke concluded.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

A 54-year-old woman from Makokoba in Bulawayo has been brought before the court, facing two charges of domestic violence stemming from a bitter dispute with her ex-husband over an alleged extramarital affair.Lindi Mhlanga admitted her guilt during her appearance before Bulawayo magistrate Nomagugu Maphosa on Monday. She has been remanded in custody until November 6 of this year.The complainant in the case is Simiso Sydney Khumalo, who is the accused's ex-husband.The court was informed that on the evening of October 15, Mhlanga contacted Khumalo to discuss a case he had reported to the police involving his ex-wife. They met at Mhlanga's residence, where an argument ensued, and she attempted to assault Khumalo on the head with a stabbing motion. Khumalo managed to block the attack, but he suffered a cut between his thumb and forefinger on his left arm. Mhlanga also allegedly bit Khumalo on his left palm, which necessitated his referral to the hospital for medical treatment.On the second count, the court heard that on September 17, Mhlanga and Khumalo were at a party in Makokoba when he accused his ex-wife of engaging in extramarital affairs. An altercation ensued between the two, resulting in Mhlanga using a kitchen knife to stab her ex-husband on the head. Khumalo was subsequently referred to the hospital for a medical examination.A police report was filed, leading to Mhlanga's arrest.
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(Kitco News) - JPMorgan, the largest investment bank in the U.S., continues to push for the increased utilization of blockchain technology to facilitate payments as its digital token, JPM Coin, now handles $1 billion worth of transactions daily.

Takis Georgakopoulos, the global head of payments at JPMorgan, provided the updated performance of the JPM Coin during an interview on Thursday with Bloomberg Television, saying the bank has been ramping up the service and plans to continue widening its usage.

JPM Coin gets transacted on a daily basis mostly in US dollars, but we again intend to continue to expand that, Georgakopoulos said.

JPMorgan has slowly been expanding access and use of JPM Coin over the past year. In June, reports indicated that the token had been used to process roughly $300 billion worth of transactions since its launch, which still pales in comparison to the nearly $10 trillion in payments that the bank processes on a daily basis.

June also saw the introduction of euro-denominated payments for corporate clients using the JPM Coin, with Germanys Siemens AG conducting the first euro payment on the platform. Now, the banks wholesale clients can utilize the token to make dollar and euro-denominated payments through a private blockchain network.

This represents one of the few examples of a live blockchain application by a large bank. The major benefit of JPM Coin payments is that they operate 24/7 and are not limited to business hours like traditional transactions. This helps reduce processing time so that client transactions are executed more quickly.

In September, sources familiar with the inner workings at JPMorgan said the bank is in the early stages of exploring the creation of a blockchain-based digital deposit token designed to speed up cross-border payments and settlement.

The sources said JPMorgan has already developed most of the underlying infrastructure needed for the new payment vehicle, but is waiting on final approval from U.S. regulators before they actually create the token. They said that once the bank receives approval, it will likely launch the product for use by corporate clients within a year.

When asked about the digital deposit token during the Bloomberg interview, Georgakopoulos said the next step in that journey is to think about how you can create a more retail version of that, so that you can bring that same efficiency to consumers.

The bank also announced the launch of the Tokenized Collateral Network (TCN) earlier in October. The TCN is the firms in-house blockchain-based tokenization application that allows investors to utilize assets as collateral and transfer collateral ownership without needing to move assets in the underlying ledgers.

Tyrone Lobban, head of Onyx Digital Assets at JPMorgan, said that the TCN has already been used by BlackRock to tokenize the shares of one of its money market funds. The digital tokens were then transferred to Barclays as collateral for an over-the-counter derivatives trade between the two institutions.

Tom McGrath, deputy global chief operating officer of the cash management group at BlackRock, said, The tokenization of money market fund shares as collateral in clearing and margining transactions would dramatically reduce the operational friction in meeting margin calls when segments of the market face acute margin pressures.

Onyx Digital Assets  which is JPMorgans in-house blockchain network  enables collateral to be transferred nearly instantaneously. At scale, the technology would increase efficiency by freeing up locked capital so that it could be used as collateral in ongoing transactions, Lobban said.

According to Ed Bond, head of trading services at JPMorgan, the ultimate goal is for the TCN to allow clients to use other assets, including equities and fixed income, as collateral. Institutions on the network can use a wider scope of assets to meet any collateral requirements they have on the back of trading, Bond said in an interview.
Azure Minerals (ASX: AZS) announced yesterday that it is being acquired by lithium giant Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM) for about A$1.63 billion (US$1.03 billion).

The purchase was about 44% over Azure's recent closing price. The Azure board unanimously recommends the transaction in the absence of a superior proposal.

Azure is focused on its Andover lithium and nickel-copper-cobalt project in West Pilbara region of Western Australia. Azure said the project comprised of hundreds of outcropping spodumene-bearing, lithium-rich pegmatites within an area of 9km (east-west) and up to 5km (north-south). Surface sampling returned numerous high grade lithium assays between 1% to 5% Li2O.

Azure Managing Director Tony Rovira said the transaction de-risks the project.

Whilst we firmly believe that Andover has the potential to be a major lithium project, there is significant time, cost and risk associated with developing a project of this scale, particularly in the context of an uncertain broader economic outlook," said Rovira. "As such, the Board believes that the Transaction provides Azure shareholders with a compelling opportunity to de-risk their investment and realise certain value at an attractive premium to historical trading levels."

SQM is a leading lithium producer. The company also has other divisions servicing nutrition and industrial chemicals. In the Atacama Desert, located between Chiles first and second regions, SQM has exclusive access to the worlds best and largest reserves of caliche ore and brines. The company possesses the most extensive reserves of iodine and nitrate, as well as the highest concentrations of lithium and potassium on record.
An excellent column by Ben Kepes on being Jewish. Some extracts:

The Jewish people have existed for thousands of years. For most of that time, they had no country of their own and hence have lived across the four corners of the earth. Every year for thousands of years during the Passover festival, Jews have been saying next year in Jerusalem with no real hope or expectation of that being possible. And so, we have overwhelmingly been an other. Guests in other countries at the mercy of our hosts and neighbours. Maybe tolerated, maybe assimilated, maybe the butt of jokes but still, at some level, an other. Now I absolutely get that this sounds dramatic. But there is something that non-Jews find hard to understand, and that is that, given the arc of time, our welcome wherever we are has historically always run out.

Imagine thousands of years with no country of your own, as an other, let alone the centuries of discrimination.

Jews have a shared memory, engrained into our DNA, that comes from the collective trauma of thousands of years of persecution. Quite literally, Jews are painfully aware that, for us, a significant proportion of the world wants to kill us.  So every Holocaust Memorial Day, when we (and others) say never again, we don't say it as a matter of fact, but rather as a matter of hope. A hope that truly feels a little naive. October 7 showed us that our paranoia isn't naivete, but rather a reaction to our shared reality. October 7, while sad and shocking, is the millennia-long reality for us. And it is because of this shared trauma that the pain we all feel about what happened that day isn't some kind of dissociated and intellectual pain about suffering from distant people, rather it is the pain about suffering that our own family faced.

Just as it is (correctly) said in the US that non-blacks can't understand the experience of racism to the same extent as black Americans, it is very difficult for non-Jews to understand how October 7 is not just a random terrorist attack for Jews, but part of thousands of years of hatred.

So it's important for readers who don't know much about the Middle Eastern conflict and what has led to it, to understand our reality outside of the current situation. It is absolutely right and appropriate for people to show concern about the plight of the Palestinians, and hope for peace in the region. But to do so without a parallel empathy for how we, as Jews, are suffering is ignorant at best, and cruel at worst. We hear random liberal commentators opining that the Hamas terrorist attacks were simply an act of decolonisation and an attempt to regain autonomy. We hear that and very quickly remember that the Hamas charter suggests that until all israel is annihilated, its job will not be done. For Jews, that isn't simply a charter, it is a clear message that a group wishes every single one of us dead. And that is a wish that we've been facing as a people since the dawn of time.

Ben's column should be mandatory reading in schools and universities.

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News / Local

by Staff reporter

The only mayor from the ruling Zanu-PF party in Zimbabwe, Thulani Moyo of Gwanda Municipality, expressed his excitement at being referred to as President Emmerson Mnangagwa's "first-born mayor" following the harmonized elections on August 23 and 24.In Zimbabwe, 33 out of 34 urban councils are led by mayors from the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), making Mayor Moyo's position unique.In an interview, Moyo attributed his election as mayor to his dedication in working for his party in the Matabeleland South provincial capital.Moyo expressed his honor at being referred to as "ED Mnangagwa's first-born mayor," referring to the president, and mentioned his excitement about it, even suggesting that he would like to celebrate with a cake.He highlighted that his election was the result of his hard work and leadership over the past 10 years, focusing on being a leader who cares, listens, and has the people's best interests at heart.Moyo emphasized his commitment to Gwanda's development and the desire to meet the needs of its residents.He shared some personal background information, including his education and interests, as well as his family's involvement in politics.Moyo outlined his plans and vision for Gwanda's development, including modernization, industrialization, and housing provision. He expressed his belief in engagement, participation, and transparency.The mayor acknowledged the water challenges that Gwanda is currently facing and mentioned plans to address them, including resolving salary backlogs and relocating the dumpsite.Moyo also expressed his commitment to engaging with the business community and other stakeholders to promote the town's growth and development. He mentioned plans to work with gold miners, cement companies, and other entities to stimulate economic growth in the area.He also discussed the recent water debt issues between the Gwanda Town Council and the Zimbabwe National Water Authority (Zinwa) and plans to resolve the matter through negotiations and engagement with stakeholders.The article concludes by mentioning the impending water disconnection threat from Zinwa and the response from the council to issue a disconnection threat to ratepayers due to outstanding debts.
It's Treat AND Treat Day, Tuesday, October 31st!!! KLTZ and Mix-93 are teaming up with our Halloween sponsors to give away coupons and prizes starting at 6 a.m.!! Only one winner per person. No purchase is necessary.

Coupons must be used by Saturday, November 4, 2023, unless otherwise specified. Listen for the witch laugh and then call in to win  on Halloween Monday on KLTZ and Mix-93!
News / Local

by Staff reporter

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), is conducting investigations into approximately 19,000 cases of corruption involving civil servants who have exploited the free import duty on vehicles.The government had extended the duty waiver to civil servants to import vehicles without incurring duty fees, but many individuals have been abusing this privilege. They have imported vehicles for their relatives and friends, while some have purchased cars from foreign dealers for profit, receiving up to $1,000 per vehicle depending on the make and price.ZACC's Deputy Chair, Kuziwa Murapa, stated that numerous cases have already been brought to court as part of their investigation process. ZACC typically investigates cases and then hands them over to the police or prosecution for further action.Speaking at an international anti-corruption conference organized by Bindura University of Education, Murapa emphasized the need for collaboration with other institutions and agencies to combat corruption effectively.ZACC is also actively pursuing assets located outside the country, which have been identified as the proceeds of corruption and the externalization of funds. Processes are underway to repatriate some of these assets as ZACC aims to recover a cumulative total of $1 billion worth of stolen assets.
Hurricane Otis kills at least 27 in devastating blow to Acapulco, Mexico, that tore through high-rises and inundated roads
The Republican-led House elected Rep. Mike Johnson, seen here on April 26, as the new House speaker on October 25.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), has accused Sengezo Tshabangu, who claims to be the interim secretary-general of the CCC, of being a pawn used by Zanu-PF to disrupt the opposition from within.Chamisa made these accusations in a recent interview, stating that Tshabangu is not a CCC member, and his actions are intended to create divisions and confusion within the party.Furthermore, Chamisa hinted that the CCC might not participate in the upcoming December 9 by-elections, as both the announcement of the election date and the recalls initiated by Tshabangu were carried out unlawfully.Chamisa emphasized that these by-elections were unconstitutional and criminal acts, and the CCC would not waste its time participating in them.He alleged that Zanu-PF is behind Tshabangu's actions, aiming to distract the CCC from its demand for proper elections. Chamisa described these by-elections as "unconstitutional and criminal acts" and stated that the CCC would not participate in them.Chamisa insisted that the CCC's primary focus was on having a proper election and a legitimate government in Zimbabwe. He emphasized the importance of peace and the difficulties faced by the opposition in Zimbabwe's challenging political landscape.He concluded by saying that the CCC has chosen the path of peace despite the challenges, and he believes in seeking a peaceful resolution for Zimbabwe's political issues. Chamisa expressed his commitment to peaceful and non-violent means of achieving change.
RFG Advisory LLC lifted its position in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:JNK  Free Report) by 0.8% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 114,936 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 966 shares during the quarter. RFG Advisory LLCs holdings in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF were worth $10,578,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich raised its holdings in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF by 79,492.5% in the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 341,345,051 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $31,413,985,000 after purchasing an additional 340,916,185 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp lifted its position in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF by 16.3% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,695,731 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $807,138,000 after acquiring an additional 1,216,011 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its stake in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF by 4.5% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,038,786 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $516,476,000 after acquiring an additional 219,094 shares in the last quarter. Wright Fund Management LLC purchased a new stake in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF in the second quarter worth about $403,074,000. Finally, Japan Science & Technology Agency purchased a new stake in SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF in the first quarter worth about $358,105,000.

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SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF Price Performance

Shares of JNK stock traded up $0.03 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $88.51. 2,045,877 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 8,840,116. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $90.45 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $91.22. SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF has a 12-month low of $87.79 and a 12-month high of $94.83.

About SPDR Bloomberg High Yield Bond ETF

SPDR Barclays High Yield Bond ETF (the Fund), formerly SPDR Barclays Capital High Yield Bond ETF, seeks to provide investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of the Barclays Capital High Yield Very Liquid Index (the Index). The Index includes publicly issued United States dollar denominated, non-investment grade, fixed-rate, taxable corporate bonds that have a remaining maturity of at least one year, regardless of optionality, are rated high-yield using the middle rating of Moodys, S&P, and Fitch, respectively, and have $600 million or more of outstanding face value.

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Rollins (NYSE:ROL  Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday. The business services provider reported $0.28 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.25 by $0.03, RTT News reports. Rollins had a net margin of 13.60% and a return on equity of 31.00%. The firm had revenue of $840.43 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $824.35 million. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $0.22 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 15.2% on a year-over-year basis.

Rollins Stock Up 2.0 %

Rollins stock traded up $0.67 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $34.33. The stock had a trading volume of 4,504,740 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,862,126. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 0.81 and a quick ratio of 0.75. The company has a market capitalization of $16.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 43.46, a PEG ratio of 2.76 and a beta of 0.67. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $37.23 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $39.95. Rollins has a one year low of $32.19 and a one year high of $45.04.

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Rollins Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 11th. Investors of record on Friday, November 10th will be paid a $0.15 dividend. This is a boost from Rollinss previous quarterly dividend of $0.13. This represents a $0.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.75%. Rollinss payout ratio is presently 65.82%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Rollins

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Rollins

In other news, CEO Jerry Jr. Gahlhoff sold 7,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $38.00, for a total value of $266,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 225,091 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,553,458. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . In other news, CEO Jerry Jr. Gahlhoff sold 7,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $38.00, for a total value of $266,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 225,091 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,553,458. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website . Also, major shareholder Randall Rollins Voting Trus R. sold 44,509,814 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $34.39, for a total transaction of $1,530,692,503.46. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now owns 164,581,449 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,659,956,031.11. The disclosure for this sale can be found here . Company insiders own 4.70% of the companys stock.

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in ROL. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust grew its holdings in Rollins by 5.3% during the 2nd quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 4,927 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $211,000 after buying an additional 250 shares in the last quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans grew its holdings in Rollins by 2.7% during the 3rd quarter. Thrivent Financial for Lutherans now owns 9,871 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $342,000 after buying an additional 258 shares in the last quarter. Horizon Investments LLC grew its holdings in Rollins by 7.7% during the 2nd quarter. Horizon Investments LLC now owns 3,889 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $166,000 after buying an additional 277 shares in the last quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. grew its holdings in Rollins by 4.1% during the 1st quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 8,773 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $326,000 after buying an additional 342 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Toroso Investments LLC grew its holdings in Rollins by 5.3% during the 3rd quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 6,897 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $239,000 after buying an additional 350 shares in the last quarter. 38.98% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts recently commented on the stock. TheStreet downgraded shares of Rollins from a b rating to a c+ rating in a research note on Thursday, October 19th. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Rollins in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $52.00 target price on shares of Rollins in a research note on Monday, August 14th. Bank of America assumed coverage on shares of Rollins in a research note on Wednesday, July 5th. They issued a buy rating and a $49.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus raised shares of Rollins from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $40.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 20th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $46.57.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Rollins

About Rollins

(Get Free Report)

Rollins, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides pest and wildlife control services to residential and commercial customers in the United States and internationally. The company offers pest control services to residential properties protecting from common pests, including rodents, insects, and wildlife.

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Tripbtoz picked as 1st investment recipient by Singapore-based firm

By Kang Seung-woo

The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) and Velocity Ventures, a Singapore-based capital company, agreed to a Strategic Innovation Partnership, under which the two sides will support companies working with the Korea Tourism Startup Center in Singapore to expand business across Southeast Asia.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed in Singapore, Thursday, between Kim Young-hee, director of KTO Singapore Office and Patrick Imbardelli, founder and chairman of Velocity Ventures, reinforcing the commitment of both organizations to support innovation growth for the travel and hospitality industry in Southeast Asia.

As part of the MOU, Velocity Ventures announced its first Korean tourism startup investment recipient  Tripbtoz, a Web3-based Online Travel Agency (OTA) that integrates community and commerce features with user-generated short-forms serving a market that is gravitating towards video content.

Tripbtozs travel video ecosystem aggregates user-generated content (UGC) video reviews of hotels and tourist attractions. The platform rewards users with loyalty currency and discount coupons when bookings are made via referral links.

To date, over 500,000 UGCs have been collected, allowing hoteliers and other travel destinations to use the UGC resources as marketing content. Founded in 2017 by CEO Jung Ji-ha, Tripbtoz has emerged as an Online Travel Agency (OTA) industry disruptor integrating community and commerce functions, and demonstrating robust financial performance.

"Singapore's strategic significance as a regional launch pad for K-companies cannot be overstated, Kim said.

The leadership team at Velocity Ventures, with their wealth of expertise and unwavering support, are an invaluable guiding force for emerging K-tourism startups collaborating with the Korea Tourism Startup Center in Singapore as they expand their footprint across Southeast Asia."

Nicholas Cocks, managing partner at Velocity Ventures said, "Investing in the flourishing tech startup ecosystem in Southeast Asia's travel industry isn't just about nurturing innovation; it's about propelling the future of travel.

He added, By supporting these dynamic K-tourism companies spearheading technological advancements here in Southeast Asia, we hope that they can help solve the biggest pain points in the industry. Embracing change isn't just a choice; it's the path to shaping the future of travel.

Since its inception in 2020, over 90 Korean startups have participated in the KTOs Tourism Startup Global Challenge Program, an initiative designed to empower K-Tourism companies to venture into overseas markets, receiving grants and industry support to unlock access to business partners.

Velocity Ventures played a vital role in the selection process of the 2023 winners of the Startup Global Challenge Program where winners have access to a support ecosystem at Korea Tourism Startup Center in Singapore. As an affiliate partner, Velocity Ventures also helps mentor K-startups in the program.
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Source Music has addressed the rumors against Chaewon amid the news of the ongoing drug-related issues among popular celebrities.

Read more to learn further details.

Source Music Defends LE SSERAFIM Kim Chaewon from Drug-Use Rumors

On October 26, LE SSREAFIM's agency Source Music officially released a statement denying the drug-use rumors made against Kim Chaewon.

According to Korean news outlets, Source Music denied all allegations of drug use surrounding Chaewon and updated that she was currently recovering from the flu's effects. Furthermore, the agency added that she'll return to her group activities on November 1.

"The rumors surrounding Kim Chaewon are not true at all. She is currently recovering from the aftereffects of the flu. She is scheduled to return to her schedules on November 1."

YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN: LE SSERAFIM Kim Chaewon & aespa Winter Garner Attention for Uncanny Similarities

On October 25, it was reported the drug investigation team from the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency had booked BIGBANG G-Dragon without detention. The booking was made based on the violation of the Narcotics Control Act. Meanwhile, another celebrity also packed heat.

On October 19, the same legal unit conducted an internal investigation on actor Lee Sun Kyun regarding alleged drug charges. The ongoing investigation caused the actor to step down from the upcoming drama "No Way Out."

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: LE SSERAFIM Chaewon's Health Status Revealed + Source Music Releases Official Statement

Drug-related scandals are currently on the rise, with some popular celebrities being booked for investigation. With the controversial spree on the loose, the rumors eventually rose across the online community and have led some idols like Chaewon to get embroiled in the rumors.

The news eventually gained attention in a forum full of enraged netizens, who insisted that Chaewon should sue the people making those rumors. Read their comments below:

"Chaewon-ah, let's sue."

"Why would you do this to a sick kid?"

"People are losing their minds."

"The trash people making up the rumors are real disgusting."

"Who would believe this? She's been relentlessly promoting for the past two years. Why would she start taking drugs all of a sudden?"

Source Music Announces Kim Chaewon's Return to LE SSERAFIM's Group Activities

On October 26, Source Music announced on Weverse declaring Chaewon's return to her schedules. Read their full announcement below:

"Hello. This is SOURCE MUSIC. We would like to update everyone on LE SSERAFIM member Kim Chaewon's resumption of her activities. Chaewon had a period of rest due to Type A Influenza, which lasted for the past week. We are pleased to inform you that Chaewon has completely recovered. According to the recommendation from the medical staff, Chaewon can participate once again in her activities starting from Wednesday, November 1. Our company is obliged to support her until she can meet her fans again in good health. Thank you."

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments below!

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: LE SSERAFIM Kim Chaewon Net Worth 2022: How Rich is the Former IZ*ONE Member?

KpopStarz owns this article

Written by Riely Miller
BTS V, also known as Taehyung, recently made his highly anticipated return to South Korea following an undisclosed overseas trip. The mystery surrounding his travels had fans abuzz with excitement and curiosity.

While he initially charmed netizens with his post-Paris visuals, it was a comical twist at Incheon Airport that truly stole the spotlight.

BTS V's Return to Korea: A Revealing and 'Embarrassing' Instagram Moment

BTS V had been sharing glimpses of his time in Paris, France, on Instagram, leaving fans intrigued about the purpose of his trip.

In photos from his journey, the idol appeared even more handsome than ever, further fueling fans' excitement.

READ ALSO: BTS V Reveals True Emotions Behind THIS Text from Suga: 'Never thought you would say something like...'

Upon his return to Korea on October 26, V decided to share his "embarrassing" moment with his fans. In a photo posted on Instagram, he seemed deep in thought, gazing at the camera with his signature charm.

What made this post particularly amusing was the revelation that he had worn his sweatshirt backward during the journey.

BTS V's Fashion Faux Pas Goes Viral, ARMYs Can't Get Enough

In a candid caption to the Instagram story, V admitted to his wardrobe mishap, expressing his feeling of being "embarrassed" upon realizing he had worn his clothing the wrong way.

READ ALSO: BTS Taehyung with His 'Unparalleled' Aura in Celine's Fashion Film Has Made ARMYs Gushed: 'No celebrity can beat...'

Netizens were quick to react to V's revelation, finding the incident endearing and cute, and remarking that he still looked good even when wearing his clothes incorrectly.

These are some comments from various social media platforms:

IT DIDNT LOOKED LIKE IT TO ME OH BABY

if he didnt tell i would never know cox i was not looking at his shirt but admiring his beauty

If he didnt tell us I would not have noticed it

We Didn't even notice Taehyung-ah

We're always too busy looking at his pretty face.

hes adorable

a cutie patootie

why is he lookin so jungkook here

Do you know who usually wear his clothes backward

As always, V managed to turn a minor fashion faux pas into an adorable moment, showcasing his unique ability to make everything look good, even when defying conventional fashion norms.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: ARMYs Buzz in Anticipation as BTS V's Solo Album 'Layover' Showcases His Artistry: 'Crazy quality!'



Follow and subscribe to KpopStarz for more news.



KpopStarz own this article.

Cassidy Jones wrote this.
News / National

by Staff reporter

Julius Malema, the leader of South Africa's third-largest party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, characterized Zanu-PF as a "criminal syndicate" that has been rejected by the people but continues to hold onto power. Malema, in an interview with SABC, asserted that President Emmerson Mnangagwa's regime remained in power through the use of military force."In Zimbabwe, Zanu-PF lacks popular support; it operates as a criminal organization that manipulates elections and deploys the military and police to intimidate the population," Malema alleged.Malema's remarks were made in the context of discussing the declining popularity of the African National Congress (ANC), which political analysts predict may receive less than 50 percent of the popular vote in the upcoming elections.The ANC has governed South Africa since 1994, following the country's first democratic elections after years of resistance against white minority rule."The historical pattern of liberation movements on the continent indicates that after 30 years, they tend to self-destruct, becoming self-defeating entities that undermine themselves. Whether or not the EFF exists, the ANC is inevitably headed towards a natural decline, similar to what we are witnessing with Zanu-PF," Malema commented.Mnangagwa was declared the winner of Zimbabwe's elections in August, securing 52 percent of the vote. However, his opponents accused the electoral commission of suppressing the opposition vote by delivering ballot papers late to specific areas. Zanu-PF agents were also accused of widespread intimidation during the elections, which SADC observers noted fell short of meeting the standards for democratic elections.
FILE - The rear view on Chartres Street of the newly renovated home of the Louisiana Supreme Court, located in the French Quarter, New Orleans, is photographed Monday, May 10, 2004. Louisianas Supreme Court hears arguments Tuesday, May 10, 2022, on whether a ban on non-unanimous jury verdicts must apply retroactively, a case that criminal justice advocates say would affect an estimated 1,500 people convicted before the U.S. Supreme Court prohibited such verdicts. (AP Photo/Judi Bottoni, File)
News / National

by Staff reporter

The main opposition party, Citizens' Coalition for Change (CCC), has accused President Emmerson Mnangagwa of revealing his involvement in the recalls of its parliamentarians and councillors by self-proclaimed secretary-general Sengezo Tshabangu, amidst indications of Zanu-PF's maneuvering.On Friday, Mnangagwa declared November 7 as the nomination court date and December 9 as the election day to fill the vacancies resulting from the controversial recall of nine CCC legislators by Tshabangu.The proclamation stated, "Whereas in terms of section 129 (k) of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the seats of the members of Parliament for Beitbridge West, Binga North, Bulawayo South, Cowdray Park, Lobengula-Magwegwe, Lupane East, Mabvuku-Tafara, Mpopoma-Mzilikazi, and Nketa have become vacant by reason of ceasing to be members of CCC of Morgan Ncube, Prince Dubeko Sibanda, Nicola Jane Watson, Pashor Raphael Sibanda, Ereck Gono, Bright Moyo Vanya, Febion Munyaradzi Kufahakutizwi, Desmond Makaza, and Obert Manduna on the 9th of October, 2023."The CCC argued that Mnangagwa's endorsement of the recalls through the by-election proclamation reveals his involvement in the recalls. They asserted, "This proclamation is in response to an illegal recall initiated by a Zanu-PF imposter, named Sengezo Tshabangu, who falsely claims to be the interim secretary-general of our party, led by President Nelson Chamisa. The illegal proclamation is a clear indication of Mr Mnangagwa's involvement in the illegal recalls of our elected members. Mnangagwa's intention is to decimate the authentic opposition in Zimbabwe, following his defeat by President Nelson Chamisa in the recently concluded rigged and fraudulent elections."The CCC further claimed that the endorsement of the recalls has plunged the country into a constitutional and political crisis. They stated, "Zimbabwe is now facing an unprecedented constitutional and political crisis. This has proved the most glaring manifestation of state institutions capture by Mr Mnangagwa."The CCC emphasized that they had not initiated any recalls and stressed that the recalls are illegal. They also highlighted that Sengezo Tshabangu is not a registered CCC member, and they have reported him to the police. They concluded by stating that a by-election date cannot be determined for a matter currently before the courts.The CCC mentioned their commitment to finding solutions to protect the nation from further political contention and pledged to provide updates on their actions in this regard.There are indications that Mnangagwa, who won the disputed August 23 election, is pursuing a two-thirds majority in Parliament to amend laws and extend his term in power.
News / National

by Simbarashe Sithole

In a bizarre incident an 18-year-old Bindura man has been arrested after he broke into his neighbour's house to bite a seven year old girl before stealing her teeth.

The matter came to light yesterday at Bindura magistrates courts where Diamond Makombe appeared before magistrate Nomagugu Sibanda.He pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to 30 months in jail.Prosecutor Victoria Choga told the court that on October 20 Makombe broke into his neighbour's house around 11 pm.While in house Makombe found a seven year old girl sleeping and he bit her and removed her four teeth.The girl cried for help and Makombe fled.The father of the girl made a chase and managed to apprehend Makombe before surrendering him to the police.While at the police station the police searched him and found him with the four teeth.
New Delhi [India], October 26 (ANI): The European Central Bank (ECB) has released data on monetary developments in the Euro area for September 2023, shedding light on key indicators and trends within the region's financial landscape.

The annual growth rate of the broad monetary aggregate M3 stood at -1.2 per cent in September 2023, showing a marginal improvement from -1.3 per cent in August.

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Over the three months leading to September, the average growth rate remained at -1.0 per cent.

The narrower monetary aggregate M1, which includes currency in circulation and overnight deposits, recorded an annual growth rate of -9.9 per cent in September, indicating a slight improvement from -10.4 per cent in August.

Also Read | Israel-Hamas War: IDF Infantry Hits Several Tanks, Hamas Outposts Inside Gaza Strip, Ground Assault Imminent (Watch Video).

Short-term deposits, excluding overnight deposits (M2-M1), experienced a decline in their annual growth rate, dropping to 22.0 per cent in September, down from 23.7 per cent in August.

Marketable instruments (M3-M2) also saw a decrease in their annual growth rate, falling to 19.1 per cent in September from 20.5% in August.

The contributions to the annual growth rate of M3 are distributed among the components: M1 contributed -7.2 percentage points (up from -7.6 percentage points in August), short-term deposits (M2-M1) contributed 5.1 percentage points (down from 5.3 percentage points), and marketable instruments (M3-M2) contributed 0.9 percentage points (down from 1.0 percentage points).

The annual growth rate of deposits placed by households witnessed a decrease to -0.2 per cent in September from 0.2 per cent in August.

Deposits placed by non-financial corporations also saw a reduction, with an annual growth rate of -1.3 per cent in September, compared to -2.3 per cent in August.

Deposits placed by non-monetary financial corporations (excluding insurance corporations and pension funds) showed an annual growth rate of -16.2 per cent in September, an improvement from -18.8 per cent in August.

The components of the broad monetary aggregate M3 can be further broken down-

Net external assets contributed 2.1 percentage points (up from 1.3 percentage points in August).

Credit to the private sector contributed 0.2 percentage points (down from 0.5 percentage points).

Credit to the general government contributed -0.8 percentage points (unchanged from the previous month).

Longer-term financial liabilities contributed -2.0 percentage points (down from -1.8 percentage points).

The remaining counterparts of M3 contributed -0.6 percentage points (unchanged from the previous month).

The annual growth rate of total credit to euro area residents registered -0.5 per cent in September 2023, compared to -0.2 per cent in the previous month.

Credit to the general government held steady with an annual growth rate of -2.1 per cent in September, unchanged from the previous month.

Credit to the private sector saw a decrease in its annual growth rate, falling to 0.2 per cent in September from 0.6 per cent in August.

Adjusted loans to the private sector, which account for loan sales, securitization, and notional cash pooling, experienced an annual growth rate of 0.3 per cent in September, down from 0.7 per cent in August.

Adjusted loans to households decreased to an annual growth rate of 0.8 per cent in September from 1.0 per cent in August, while adjusted loans to non-financial corporations dropped to 0.2 per cent in September from 0.7 per cent in August.

The data illustrates the evolving monetary landscape in the euro area, reflecting economic conditions and policy measures implemented by the ECB.

As the region grapples with economic challenges, these figures offer insights into the dynamics of money supply and credit within the currency bloc. (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 [India], October 26 (ANI): Punjab National Bank (PNB) has reported a staggering 327 per cent increase in its net profit, reaching Rs 1,756 crore for the most recent financial quarter, marking a substantial leap from the previous year's figures according to a release from PNB.

This surge in profitability reflects PNB's resilience and strategic financial measures, underscoring its robust position in the banking industry the release said.

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Punjab National Bank (PNB) has released its financial results for the second quarter (Q2) and the first half of the fiscal year 2024 (HY1 FY'24), showcasing substantial growth and remarkable improvements across various key parameters.

PNB reported a significant increase in savings deposits, rising from Rs 4,51,707 Crore in September 2022 to Rs 4,71,238 Crore in September 2023.

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The bank held Rs 67,038 Crore in current deposits as of September 2023.

The CASA Share (Current Account and Savings Account) for domestic operations stood at 42.15 per cent in September 2023, compared to 41.90 per cent in June 2023.

The Core Retail Advances grew year-on-year by 16.5 per cent, reaching Rs 1,47,247 Crore in September 2023. This category includes housing loans (up 13.7 per cent to Rs 87,430 Crore), vehicle loans (up 28.3 per cent to Rs 18,010 Crore), and personal loans (up 39.0 per cent to Rs 19,868 Crore).

PNB experienced growth in Agriculture Advances by 4.49 per cent and in MSME Advances by 6.48 per cent year-on-year.

The bank's net profit increased substantially to Rs 1,756 crore during Q2 FY'24, with a remarkable year-on-year growth of 327.14 per cent.

The Provision Coverage Ratio, including TWO (technical write-offs), improved significantly by 795 bps year-on-year, reaching 91.91 per cent as of September 2023.

The Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio improved by 352 bps year-on-year to 6.96 per cent, and the Net Non-Performing Assets (NNPA) ratio improved by 233 bps year-on-year to 1.47 per cent as of September 2023.

The credit cost declined by 45 bps year-on-year, standing at 1.31 per cent in Q2 FY'24.

PNB's global business increased by 11.26 per cent year-on-year to Rs 22,51,631 crore in September 2023, compared to Rs 20,23,713 Crore in September 2022.

The Global NIM improved by 11 bps year-on-year to 3.11 per cent in Q2 FY'24, compared to 3.00 per cent in Q2 FY'23.

PNB reported an improved CRAR (Capital to Risk (Weighted) Assets Ratio) of 15.09 per cent as of September 2023, compared to 14.74 per cent in September 2022.

As of September 2023, PNB maintained 10,092 domestic branches across various regions.

According to the release by PNB, the bank exceeded the national goal, with Priority Sector Advances standing at 41.6% of ANBC (Adjusted Net Bank Credit). This included credit to small & marginal farmers, weaker sections, and micro-enterprises, all surpassing their respective national goals.

PNB demonstrated significant digital progress with impressive growth in the number of users adopting the PNB One App, as well as increased digital transactions, internet banking users, and mobile banking users.

PNB also received recognition and accolades for its CSR initiatives, including planting more than 1 lakh trees under the PNB Palaash program.

The bank was honoured at the Hindi Diwas Celebrations and received awards for its contributions to Rajbhasha Kirti, both first and second prizes.

The release says, Punjab National Bank continues to make strides in the banking sector with remarkable financial performance and extensive growth, both in terms of profitability and digital progress. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
PRNewswire

Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], October 26: UST, a leading digital transformation solutions company, has been recognized by the 2023 Mahatma Awards for its sustainable and impactful contributions to corporate social responsibility (CSR). This latest recognition has further solidified UST's position as a global industry leader in CSR initiatives. An initiative of Aditya Birla Group, the award was presented on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary, celebrating UST's commitment to societal upliftment in areas like education, health, livelihood, environment, and disaster relief.

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Founded in 1999, UST has embraced its mission of 'Transforming Lives'. It has continuously showcased its dedication to creating lasting societal value. A highlight of the CSR drive is its Adopt-a-School program, which positively impacts over 32,000 students in India and Mexico. UST supports over 104 schools, promoting accessible, quality education for all.

Further, UST's humanitarian strides include medical support for those with disabilities and habitat restoration projects in Kerala. Their nature conservation and sustainable livelihood project sourced 75,000 medicinal saplings in 2022 alone, benefiting farmers in various Indian states. In response to global crises, UST has time and time again demonstrated its strong commitment to humanitarian causes. A substantial pledge of 100,000 USD was made to support victims of the conflict in Ukraine, showcasing solidarity with those impacted by war. USsociates from the UK, Ukraine, and Poland put in many hours of selfless volunteering to help distribute much-needed essentials in the refugee camps.

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In 2023, India's IT capital, Bengaluru saw some of its worst floods in recent memory, and UST's CSR team in Bengaluru responded by taking swift action. Mobilizing relief efforts within 48 hours, the team distributed dry ration kits, tarpaulins, and medical supplies to over 4,000 affected families in urban slums. The Mahatma Award 2023 is a testament to the effectiveness of all these efforts, highlighting UST's unwavering dedication to social responsibility and reflecting its commitment to positively impacting communities worldwide.

"We are deeply honoured and grateful to receive the 2023 Mahatma Award for CSR Excellence in Community Initiatives. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to making a meaningful impact on society. At UST, our core values drive us to continuously innovate and contribute to the well-being of the communities we serve. This award is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated teams and the transformative power of our community initiatives. We remain steadfast in our mission to create a positive and lasting difference in the lives of those we touch, guided by the principles that define us," said Sunil Balakrishnan, Chief Values Officer and Global Head for Development Center Operations, UST.

"We are delighted and humbled to receive the Mahatma Award for CSR Excellence in Community Initiatives. This recognition reflects the dedication and passion of our global volunteer teams working towards sustainable impact. UST's CSR and sustainability initiatives are driven by a commitment to creating positive change and fostering long-term societal benefits. This award reinforces the significance of our global programs and their impact on communities worldwide. We deeply appreciate the unwavering commitment and hard work demonstrated by our CSR volunteers, our community-based non-profit partners and all of the grassroots organizations working with us. Their compassion and dedication make it possible for us to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of those we serve. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each volunteer for their selfless contributions, embodying the spirit of positive change and community engagement at UST. We will continue to innovate and collaborate to address the evolving needs of our communities, guided by our unwavering commitment to sustainability," said Smita Sharma, Global Program Manager - CSR, UST.

UST has previously been praised for its CSR excellence, recent accolades include:

* Kerala Management Association Award (2023) - Categories: "Health and Hygiene" and "Environment and Greenery"

* CSR - Padosan Award (2023) from Trivandrum Management Association - A testament to UST's local community engagement and impact.

* Hyderabad Software Enterprises Association Award (2023): Recognizing UST's outstanding contribution to CSR in the tech hub of Hyderabad.

* Mahatma Award (2022)- Category: CSR Excellence in the Community Initiative

* Project Management Institute South Asia Award (2022) - Project of the Year for the transformative initiative, "Transforming Lives through Education."

* Indian CSR Award (2022): - Category: "Best Environment Protection Initiative of the Year"

To learn more about UST's social commitment, please visit: https://www.ust.com/en/who-we-are/ust-social-commitment.

About UST

For more than 24 years, UST has worked side by side with the world's best companies to make a real impact through transformation. Powered by technology, inspired by people, and led by our purpose, we partner with our clients from design to operation. Through our nimble approach, we identify their core challenges, and craft disruptive solutions that bring their vision to life. With deep domain expertise and a future-proof philosophy, we embed innovation and agility into our clients' organizations--delivering measurable value and lasting change across industries, and around the world. Together, with over 30,000 employees in 30+ countries, we build for boundless impact--touching billions of lives in the process. Visit us at www.ust.com.

Media Contacts, UST:Tinu Cherian Abraham+1 (949) 415-9857

Merrick Laravea+1 (949) 416-6212

Neha Misri+91-9284726602

Roshni Das K+91 7736795557media.relations@ust.com

Media Contacts, U.S.:S&C PR+1-646.941.9139media@scprgroup.com

Makovskyust@makovsky.com

Media Contacts, U.K.:FTI ConsultingUST@fticonsulting.com

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1422658/UST_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)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Raipur (Chhattisgarh) [India], October 26 (ANI): Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday hailed the recommendation by the committee of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on replacing 'India' with 'Bharat' in school textbooks and said, "Ye kaam bahut acha hua hai bharat ka jayjaykar hona chahiye desh mei."

Sharing similar sentiments, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Tarun Chugh also hailed the recommendation by the committee of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on changing 'India' with 'Bharat'.

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"'Bharat' is in our DNA. We have been 'Bharat' for centuries. What is the problem with this? The name 'Bharat' provides recognition to the country's soil. The initiative is indeed welcomed', Chugh said while speaking to ANI on Thursday.

Criticising the opposition for condemning the decision, Chugh said, "What is the problem with the Congress party? It is this party that raises anti-national slogans in the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The soil of this country has been 'Bharat' for centuries, and it will remain the same".

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An NCERT panel, headed by historian CI Issac, recommended replacing 'India with Bharat' in school textbooks.

The recommendations were made by a seven-member Committee for Social Sciences, which is among the committees constituted by the NCERT to prepare position papers on various subjects.

Speaking to ANI over the phone, Issac said the "term India started being used commonly only after the establishment of the East India Company and the battle of Plassey in 1757"."We have unanimously recommended that the 'Bharat' should be used in textbooks for students across classes."

The panel chaired by Issac was among the 25 committees formed by the NCERT in December 2021 to prepare position papers on various subjects and themes.

A controversy had broken out over the panel recommendations with some opposition leaders alleging that "confusion" was being created as several institutions use 'India' in their names.

The recommendation by an NCERT panel to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' in school textbooks on Wednesday raised the hackles in the Opposition, with several leaders cutting across parties coming out in opposition against the move.

Labelling the move as a "political decision", Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "It is unfortunate that an India Vs Bharat narrative is being put forward. (The words) 'India that is Bharat' were inscribed into our Constitution by none other than Dr. BR Ambedkar. The coming generations won't forgive them (the Centre) for making this differentiation. India is also Bharat and Hindustan for us. If the BJP had any sense of national pride, the name 'India' wouldn't be changed to 'Bharat'."

Meanwhile NCERT on Wednesday said that "it is too premature to comment" on reports in sections of media concerning changing 'India' to 'Bharat' in its textbooks and noted that the development of a new syllabus and textbooks is in the process for which groups of domain experts are being notified by it. (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, Oct 26 (PTI) BJP MLA from Kotulpur in West Bengal, Harakali Protiher, on Thursday joined the Trinamool Congress in the presence of party's national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee.

Protiher is the seventh BJP MLA from the state to join the Trinamool since 2021.

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TMC leader and senior minister Firhad Hakim told reporters, "MLAs like Protiher were feeling helpless in BJP's toxic ecosystem of revenge, persecution, hate and intimidation. He understood he could not work for the people of his constituency by remaining in the BJP."

"The BJP government at the Centre is plotting to halt the development initiatives of the pro-people TMC government by squeezing funds allocation for 100 days' work. I cannot continue to be associated with such anti-people party having no ideals or principle," Protiher told reporters after joining.

Also Read | Priyanka Gandhi Gets Show-Cause Notice From EC for Allegedly Violating Model Code of Conduct During Election Campaign in Rajasthan.

Bisnupur BJP MP Soumitra Khan said Protiher's action was "good riddance".

"It is good riddance for us. Protiher will be treated the way he deserves by people of Kotulpur," he added.

Welcoming Protiher, the TMC said, "This move reflects a resounding commitment to serving the people and strengthening the unwavering ideals of Ma, Mati, and Manush. We wholeheartedly welcome him to the Trinamool Congress family."

"With this union, we stand united in our mission to bring positive change and progress to our communities. Together, we pledge to work tirelessly, hand in hand, for the betterment of Bengal," the statement said.

BJP had won 77 assembly seats in the 2021 polls. BJP MPs Nisith Pramanik and Jagannath Sarkar later resigned as MLAs bringing down the party's tally to 75.

With the switching over of seven BJP MLAs to the Trinamool since 2021 and the death of legislator Bishnupada Roy in July, the effective strength of the saffron party in the assembly has come down to 67.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Muzaffarpur, October 26: Four members of a family were injured after being shot by miscreants in Bihar's Muzaffarpur, said the police on Thursday. The incident took place in the Jajuara village under the Katra Block in Muzaffarpur. "Over a dispute that took place on Tuesday during the Dussehra fair in the village, five bike-borne miscreants barged into the victims' house and opened blatant fire. Four members of the family, identified as Hem Thakur, Moti Devi, Ankit Kumar and Aman Kumar sustained serious injuries and are undergoing treatment at the MKCH hospital in the district," said Abhishek Kumar, Katra Police Station Incharge, while speaking to ANI. Bihar Horror: Dalit Woman Assaulted, Stripped and Forced To Drink Urine in Patna; Police Launch Manhunt To Nab Accused.

"Upon reaching the spot, the police recovered gun shells," Kumar added. Meanwhile, the police are conducting raids at several locations to nab the accused, he said. Further details are awaited.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jaipur, October 26: Raids by the ED are happening in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and the poor in the state to get the benefit of the guarantees given by the party, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Thursday. The allegation came after the Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state.

The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law. In a post in Hindi on X, the chief minister said, "Date 25/10/23: Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23: ED raid on Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Ji Dotasra. Summon to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear before ED." Vaibhav Gehlot Under ED Radar: Enforcement Directorate Summons Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's Son in Connection With Forex Violation Case.

ED Summons Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot's Son Vaibhav Gehlot

 25/10/23           26/10/23 -         ED   -      ED          ,           ED  pic.twitter.com/6hUbmCHCW1  Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) October 26, 2023

"Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED's raids are happening in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and the poor in Rajasthan to get the benefit of the guarantees given by the Congress," he said. ED Raid on Govind Singh Dotasra: Enforcement Directorate Raids Residence of Rajasthan Congress Chief in Jaipur in Paper Leak Case (Watch Videos).

Vaibhav Gehlot Under ED Radar

In a public rally of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Jhunjhunu on Wednesday, CM Gehlot promised two "guarantees" if the Congress is re-elected in the state -- cooking gas cylinders for Rs 500 to 1.05 crore families and an annual honorarium of Rs 10,000 to the woman head of a family in installments.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Opinion / Columnist

In a world where connectivity is a lifeline for information, education, and economic opportunities, the promise of Starlink, SpaceX's ambitious satellite internet project, shines brightly for rural and unconnected regions in Africa. However, recent developments suggest that some African countries are hesitant to grant Starlink the operating licenses it needs, and they have proposed stringent requirements.Zimbabwe's internet penetration is around 62% according to the telecoms regulator. I am not sure if this is the internet penetration or mobile penetration rate.The regulator issued a statement that importing and accessing the web using Starlink without a license from them was and is illegal. On the surface, this may seem trivial, but regulatory oversight is crucial for ensuring network reliability and security. However, the situation becomes complex when considering the vast, underserved, or completely unconnected areas in Zimbabwe and other African nations.In remote areas like Binga, Gokwe, Chiredzi, Tsholotsho, and evenUMP, local operators have often shown little interest in extending their coverage to areas they deem unprofitable based on ARPU (Average Revenue Per User). The regulator has established a fund called USF, meant to specifically address this issue by levying a certain percentage from all telecom operators in Zimbabwe, both large and small. Consequently, people in these regions are left with limited options. They can either continue to live without internet access, a disadvantage in an increasingly digital world, or they can import Starlink kits to establish connectivity independently.The standard procedure dictates that any satellite operator must have an earth-based station to interconnect with local networks. This is important for several reasons, including security and ease of interconnections. Although it may seem like an unnecessary burden, in a world where cybercrime, fraud, and scams are on the rise, having a database of end-users (who, what, where, when, and why) becomes essentialThe moral argument here is compelling. If local mobile operators are unwilling to invest in extending their services to the most remote parts of the country, should rural residents be denied the opportunity to access the global information highway through Starlink? Moreover, it is crucial that any licensing regime recognizes the importance of educational institutions. Schools and academic institutions should not be burdened with exorbitant fees for using Starlink to bridge the digital divide and provide quality education to students in underserved areas.The statements issued by authorities seem to put the rural population in a difficult position and of course many urban dwellers.On one hand, people are forbidden from importing Starlink kits without licenses, and on the other, mobile operators are uninterested in servicing these areas.This leaves end-users, often in desperate need of connectivity for education and economic development,agrifarming , security , call conferencing , remote services etc with no viable options.To address this conundrum, it is essential that the ICT Ministry come up with a future focused licensing regime for StarX.Something that the regulators our regulator is more than capable of doing. By doing so, potential users can purchase equipment from known and licensed distributors, ensuring the government does not lose revenue due to smuggled kits.While it is understandable that local operators have invested millions in their licenses,tec hnological disruption is a constant. Once upon a time, it was illegal to make calls over the internet.Yes VoIP.The high cost of data and the very limited availability of networks are major obstacles for students and professionals alike. As universities churn out thousands of graduates annually, the greatest challenge they face is the affordability and availability of network connectivityRecently the Minister of ICT was quoted as saying that Starlink must adhere to the country's laws.There is a thin line between security and privacy from a technical point of view. While users must enjoy their constitutional right to access information, it would be difficult to conduct data traces from user to end user in cases of fraud or cyber breaches. Who is collecting what data and for what purposes? Is it in compliance with the Data Protection Act ? These are things that the telecoms regulator deals with on a daily basis but I have a gut feeling that the regulator's hands might be tied. A delicate balance must be struck to open up a whole new channel to meet our ever-increasing bandwidth needs, which our local telcoms can't deal with at this stage.As if network was a person today you go anywhere especially supermarkets -"Akula network" or "hapana network". The writing is on the wall.Like all disruptive technologies, a balance must be struck, or we will be giving the regulator a job and a half to try and monitor every square mile of Zimbabwe in search of Starlink Kits. It's a no- brainer.The fourth industrial revolution is here, never mind AI.There should be a push for streamlined licensing processes to ensure that Starlink can be a beacon of hope, providing connectivity to underserved regions and helping Africa achieve its 2030 goals in the digital era. In a world where knowledge knows no boundaries, let us not hinder the progress of our people due to a lack of connectivity. Starlink's introduction will not only boost connectivity in rural areas but also in our cities, where network service levels are mostly well below acceptable Service Level Agreements due to mostly problems beyond their reach such as power outages, the cost of upstream bandwidth, maintenance costs, fuel and skills shortage. ZIMRA will be an unintended beneficiary through taxes if the licensing process is clear and taxes are not punitive.For the uninitiated, Starlink services use a kit that weighs about 7 kg, depending on the model. It points to the sky and does NOT need any mobile network or fiber connection, providing very high speeds and low latency. Currently, kits cost about $500 in areas where Starlink has rights, but like any disruptive technology, prices will likely decrease. Starlink kits connect to low orbiting satellites 500 km above or below the Earth's surface. Anyone from anywhere can buy a kit fromMalawi and put it on roam, enabling connectivity even in remote areas with no cellular coverage.We plead to the ICT Minister to give the regulator enough room to come up with a balanced policy so as to protect all stakeholders but not to hinder their work by any other political overtones that a former ICT Minister raised in parliament.RBZ is encouraging embracing the digital dollar  yes we can But connecting using what? That's a question from the unconnected. I am confident that the powers that be allow the regulator to do its function  creating a level field without undue interference or influence that does not point to the stated 2030 visions.Robert Ndlovu | +263714004000
Patna, Oct 26 (PTI) Majority of Durga Puja pandals in the state capital violated noise pollution norms during Dussehra festivities, according to data released by Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BPSCB).

The noise level was measured higher than 75 decibels (dB) at 521 locations in Patna, the BSPCB data released late on Wednesday night said.

Also Read | Karnataka Road Accident Videos: 12 From Andhra Pradesh Dead After SUV Rams Into Parked Truck on Bengaluru-Hyderabad Highway; Low Visibility Led to Tragedy, Say Cops.

As per Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000, the noise level at market places between 6 am and 10 pm should be below 65 dB. However, a relaxation of 10 dB is given to allow the upper limit at 75d B for special occasions.

"The BSPCB monitored noise pollution levels at 950 locations in Patna. Monitoring was done to measure the level of noise pollution before (October 12) and during the puja (October 21, 22 and 23).

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"While the noise level was found between 80 dB to 90 dB at 329 locations, the level was found between 90 dB to 100 dB at 163 locations in Patna. The noise level at 29 locations was measured at more than 100 dB.which is alarming", BSPCB Chairman Devendra Kumar Shukla told PTI.

Shukla said, "The BSPCB had divided the city in four zones  Patna City to Gai Ghat, Gai Ghat to Gandhi Maidan, Gandhi Maidan to Digha Ghat and Digha Ghat to Danapur. Officials monitored the sound level of the loudspeakers at pandals in all the four zones and compared it with the noise level monitored on October 12".

According to BSPCB data Shri Shri Bharat Mata Puja Samiti at New Khazoorbanna locality was found the loudest this Navaratra with sound level measuring up to 119.4 dB, followed by Shri Bal Mandali Durga Puja Samiti, Khazekala (Patna City) at 109.8 dB, Durga Puja Samiti, Students Club at 106.2 dB.

The sound level of Shri Shri Manoranjan Panchayat Bhavan Durga Sthan, Gai Tola was measured at 105.6 dB followed by Shri Shri Durga Puja Samiti, Saguna Mode at 103.9 dB, Devi Sthan (Patna city) at 103.6 dB, Shri Shri Durga Puja Samiti, Nasriganj (Danapur) at 103.2 dB and Puja Samiti, Naya Gaon (Gai Ghat ) at 103 dB.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 26 (ANI): Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced to give assistance of Rs 10 Lakh to the family of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman who lost his life in the line of duty on October 21.

"Agniveer Akshay Gawate of Buldhana district of Maharashtra died while on duty in Siachen. Expressing grief over Akshay's death, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that the state government has announced an assistance of Rs 10 lakh to his family," the CM office said.

Also Read | Bihar: Four Members of Family Shot at by Miscreants in Muzaffarpur; Police Launch Manhunt To Nab Accused.

Jawan Akshay Gawate was a resident of Pimpalgaon Sarai in Buldhana district. The Chief Minister expressed condolences to Akshay's family on his demise.

Gawate Akshay Laxman, an operator, lost his life amid the treacherous terrains of the Siachen glacier on Sunday. He is the first Agniveer to have laid down his life in operations.

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The last rites of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman were performed after his mortal remains were brought to his residence in Pimpalgaon Sarai village of Buldhana district on Monday.

Expressing support for the bereaved family of Agniveer Gawate Akshay Laxman, the Indian Army on Sunday sought to clear the air on compensation to the next of kin, saying that the same is "governed by the relevant terms and conditions of service of the soldier".

Agniveer Laxman's father, Laxman Gawate told ANI, "After getting a B.Com degree, he wanted to join the Army. I last spoke to him on October 20. He had asked me if I was keeping well and if his brother and other family members were doing fine."

The Indian Army also paid tribute to Agniveer Gawate Akshay Laxman. The Indian Army's Fire and Fury Corps offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

"Quartered in snow silent to remain, when the bugle calls, they shall rise and march again. All ranks of Fire and Fury Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman, in the line of duty, in the unforgiving heights of Siachen, and offer deepest condolences to the family," the Fire and Fury Corps posted on X. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Imphal, Oct 26 (PTI) Security forces arrested four persons including two militants from three different places in Manipur and seized arms and ammunition from their possession, police said on Thursday.

Two persons were arrested in Churachandpur district and one firearm along with 25 rounds of ammunition seized from them on Wednesday, they said.

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The duo identified as Kammin Hangshing and Kammin Sei from Kangpokpi district were travelling in a four-wheeler and were stopped at the Torbung Bangla area checkpost. They have been handed over to Churachandpur police station for further legal action.

Police nabbed two cadres of the proscribed United National Liberation Front (UNLF) from Imphal East and Imphal West districts and seized one 9 mm pistol along with 143 rounds of ammunition.

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Preliminary investigation revealed the duo was engaged in extortion of money from the general public.

Meanwhile, security forces during a search operation conducted at the foothills near Chandrakhong area in Thoubal district seized an INSAS rifle, a 9 mm pistol along with ammunition and explosives.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Pasighat (Arunachal Pradesh) [India], October 26: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday announced that all government schools of the state established before Independence will be declared as 'Heritage Schools' and given special attention for infrastructure development along with a museum within the premises.

This came in response to a request by organizers of the Platinum Jubilee celebration of the Government Secondary School, Balek near Pasighat, for declaring the school as a Heritage School.

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Established as a Lower Primary school in 1946, the Government Secondary School, Balek, is celebrating its Platinum Jubilee, which was declared open by the Chief Minister on Wednesday.

"This is one of the best requests that I have come across. Not only this school but all pre-Independence government schools in the state will be declared as Heritage Schools with a museum showcasing its rich history," he said.

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To another request, Khandu directed the Deputy Director of School Education (DDSE) of East Siang to submit a formal proposal to the government to expedite the process of upgrading the school to a higher secondary school.

"This is a historic occasion. The school's journey of 75 years is a big milestone given the fact that Arunachal Pradesh was born as a union territory in 1972 and became a full-fledged state only in 1987," Khandu observed.

Hailing the school for producing many luminaries in its long journey of 75 years, he paid rich tributes to those who have passed away and congratulated those who are serving in various capacities and those who have retired.

Khandu said that from 3-4 schools established before Independence, Arunachal Pradesh today has more than 3000 government schools across the state.

"We have faced immense challenges, particularly in the education sector but we have kept our progress steadfast," he said.

He, however, emphasized "quality rather than quantity".

"We have focused more on establishing schools after schools without keeping an eye on the quality of education being imparted in these schools," he pointed.

Khandu blamed the huge number of schools without proper infrastructure and manpower in the state on "politics of appeasement". He asserted that his government does not believe in political appeasement but in the quality of schemes and projects.

"We have taken education very seriously. In fact, we have shut down about 400 government schools having zero attendance. The process is still on. We don't need more schools but we need quality education from the existing schools for which the government is extending all support," he said.

He also informed he has already given direction to the Education Department for mapping all government-run schools in the state so that the government can keep a tag on each school.

Reiterating the importance of School Management Committees (SMC) in the proper functioning and development of schools, he advised the SMC members of every school in the state to regularly visit and interact with teachers, students and parents and then submit reports to concerned DDSEs for the fulfilment of the requirements if any.

Referring to the three-day Platinum Jubilee celebration, Khandu urged the alumni of the school to raise the topic of quality education in their discussions. (ANI)

"Alumni of this school, who have gathered here for the 3-day celebration, are well-educated and knowledgeable persons with vast experiences. Please discuss on how we can improve the quality of education in government schools and pass on your suggestions to the government," he appealed.

Earlier in the day, Khandu unveiled the bust of the late Ketem Yomso, who donated the land for the establishment of the Balek school, inaugurated the retrofitted and beautified school gate by a local NGO - Giidang Angong Society and joined a tree plantation drive at school campus besides felicitating 10 meritorious alumni of the school.

He also inaugurated 5 development projects and laid the foundations for 13 more projects at Pasighat besides announcing a new market on the land donated by locals.

Also present were MP Tapir Gao, MLAs Kaling Moyong, Ninong Ering, Lombo Tayeng, Gum Tayeng, Talem Taboh, Ojing Tasing and Kanggong Taku and officials of the district administration. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Shimla, Oct 26 (PTI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been admitted to Indira Gandhi Medical College Hospital here after he complained of pain in the abdomen, officials said on Thursday.

He was admitted to the hospital late on Wednesday night.

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According to doctors, so far all the reports are normal and the condition of the chief minister is stable.

He is under observation. As investigations are continuing, the chief minister will remain in the hospital, the doctors said.

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(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], October 26 (ANI): The Indian Air Force recently signed a contract with an Indian manufacturer for the procurement of Automatic Weather Stations at 82 IAF locations, according to an official statement from the IAF.

This technological enhancement will provide a major boost to Aerospace Safety by making available real-time weather updates during flying operations and training, the IAF added.

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Meanwhile, working on upgrading its fleet of its Russian-origin Su-30 MKI combat aircraft, the Indian Air Force is planning to equip them with an indigenous advanced radar named 'Virupaaksha'.

The Indian Air Force is working on the upgrade programme of the Su-30MKI fleet under a package worth over Rs 65,000 crore where 84 planes would be upgraded indigenously with advanced made-in-India radars and weapon systems.

Also Read | BS Yediyurappa Gets Z Category: MHA Accords Z Category CRPF Security Cover to BJP Leader and Former Chief Minister of Karnataka.

"The Virupaaksha is an advanced radar being developed indigenously. This would be a strong push for the indigenization process in the military sector," defence officials told ANI.

Virupaaksha is one of the names of the God Mahadev, worshipped by Hindus living across the world.

The Indian Air Force has already decided to replace the Israeli radar on the LCA Tejas Mark 1A fighter jet with the indigenous Uttam Actors Electronically Scanned Array radar along with the Angad electronic warfare suite.

The Su-30 fighter jets are the mainstay of the Indian Air Force, with 260 of them already in service. The jets have been inducted in different batches and now form around 50 per cent of the fighter fleet.

The Su-30MKI fleet upgrade plan is also seen by the Indian Air Force as an opportunity for exports, as many countries in southeast Asia and Africa operate the plane and can use these solutions to provide advanced capabilities to their fleets.

India is one of the largest operators of the Su-30MKI fighters and has constantly equipped the planes with new capabilities. (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, Oct 26 (PTI) Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal Thursday said India must call for an immediate ceasefire in view of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and asserted that there is no space for being partisan in the unveiling tragedy.

Sibal said the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with images of innocent children being maimed and decapitated, and civilians being killed is heart-rending and unacceptable.

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Over 1,400 people were killed in the unprecedented attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7. Hamas has held more than 220 people hostage in Gaza. According to authorities in Gaza, around 6,500 people have been killed in retaliatory strikes by Israel.

In a post on X, Sibal said, "Gaza Tragedy -- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza with images of innocent children being maimed, decapitated and along with civilians being killed is heart-rending and unacceptable."

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"India must call for an immediate ceasefire. No space for being partisan in the unveiling tragedy," he said.

Sibal, who was a Union minister during UPA I and II, quit the Congress in May last year and was elected to the Rajya Sabha as an Independent member with the Samajwadi Party's support.

He has floated a non-electoral platform 'Insaaf' aimed at fighting injustice.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bengaluru, Oct 26 (PTI) The Karnataka government is mulling providing clemency for the one last time to those who are in possession of wildlife products such as pelts, tooth, claws and various other artefacts, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre said on Thursday.

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The Minister's remarks come amid the forest department's raid at residences of a few prominent personalities and others, against whom complaints have been received that they are allegedly in possession of tiger claw or other wildlife articles.

A participant of reality show "Bigg Boss Kannada" was arrested on Sunday for sporting the tiger claw pendant.

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Addressing reporters, Khandre said people are not aware of the stringent provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act-1972. He added that ever since the issue of became a talking point this week, his department is getting lots of complaints.

I met the Chief Minister and briefed him about the case. We will take everyone's opinion and discuss with the forest officials. Government's opinion is that this should be discussed so as to provide one time clemency for the last time with regard to illegal possession of wildlife products, the Minister said.

Khandre explained that the objective behind offering one-time relief is that the Wildlife Protection Act is a stringent law and government has to take people into confidence if it has to be implemented in toto. "The objective behind strict compliance of the law is not to create a chaotic situation and terrorise people", he added.

We will discuss with the legal experts and seek a report on this (one time clemency). Already a high level probe team has been set up. Our government and our department are committed to provide information to the people in order to give a permanent remedy to this matter."

He also appealed to the people to shun superstitious beliefs, which make them sport wildlife products such as elephant tusk, tiger claws, tooth, tiger or deer pelts without knowing that this is a punishable offence.

Khandre said the usage of such wildlife products encourage people to go for hunting and poaching endangered animals.

According to the Minister, the government had provided an opportunity to people to deposit all such wildlife products when it introduced the Wildlife Protection Act in 1972. People were also given a chance to deposit such things in 2003, he added.

Regarding the existing seized wildlife material, he said they will be destroyed since there is no scope in the law to grant ownership.

To a question whether the clemency has been thought out to bail out high profile people without trying them, Khandre said there is no question of granting relief to any individual for, everyone is equal in the eyes of law.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai, Oct 26 (PTI) Three men were arrested for allegedly vandalising two cars of lawyer Gunaratna Sadavarte, who is a vociferous opponent of Maratha reservation, on Thursday in Parel in Mumbai, a police official said.

The incident took place at 6:30am, and the men, while breaking the windows of the two luxury cars of the lawyer, shouted slogans in support of the Maratha community, the official said.

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Based on a complaint filed by Sadavarte, a case under Indian Penal Code sections 427, 504, 506 and 120 (B) and section 37 (1) 135 of Maharashtra Police Act was registered for vandalism, criminal intimidation and other offences, he said.

Three persons, including a village head, were arrested and produced in court, which released them on bail, he added.

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(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Thane, Oct 26 (PTI) An 18-year-old girl died after falling from her 14th floor flat in Rabale in Navi Mumbai on Thursday, a police official said.

The incident took place at 1pm, the Rabale police station official said.

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"She landed in the parking lot. She was rushed to a nearby hospital where doctors declared her dead on arrival. An accidental death case has been registered and a probe covering all angles is underway," he added. PTI COR

Also Read | Uttar Pradesh Shocker: 15-Year-Old Girl Gang-Raped in Pratapgarh, One Arrested.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. Noting that China and the United States, as the world's two largest economies, account for more than a third of the global economy and nearly a quarter of the world's population, and bilateral trade accounts for about a fifth of the global total, Xi said the interests of both sides are closely intertwined. Xi said that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more. China's policy toward the United States is consistent, which is mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Xi said, adding that China will continue to work in this direction and hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction. Xi recalled his experience of visiting California and introduced China's green transition and relevant local development, pointing out that the sound development of China-U.S. relations requires pooling the strength of all sides. The foundation of China-U.S. relations lies among the people, the hope is in the people, the future lies in the youth, and the vitality lies in sub-national areas, Xi said. Xi noted that he highly values and supports exchanges across various sectors and sub-national cooperation between China and the United States, and expressed the hope that Newsom's visit will enhance mutual understanding and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the sound and steady development of China-U.S. relations. China and the United States enjoy great potential for cooperation in the fields of promoting green development and addressing climate change. The two sides should strengthen cooperation in this aspect and make it a new highlight in the development of China-U.S. ties, said Xi. Newsom said that over the past few decades, China has made remarkable achievements in development, especially in the field of new energy in recent years. No other bilateral relationship is more important than the one between the United States and China, and the U.S.-China relationship is vital to the future of the United States and bears on the well-being of its people, Newsom said. Newsom said he is willing to push California to strengthen exchanges with China and seek closer cooperation in fields such as climate change and new energy. California is willing to be China's long-term, stable and strong partner, he added. Senior Chinese official Wang Yi was present at the meeting.


Photo Illustration by Luis G. Rendon/The Daily Beast/Getty

Pay Dirt is a weekly foray into the pigpen of political funding. Subscribe here to get it in your inbox every Thursday.

If one thing was clear from Connecticut hedge fund manager David McCormicks brief run during the 2022 Pennsylvania Republican Senate primary, its that his campaign had a practically bottomless built-in fundraising basein the form of the candidate himself.

But while McCormick, who boasts a net worth in the hundreds of millions, likely wont have trouble scrounging up the cash for his newly minted 2024 Senate bid, his financial maneuvering this time around has already drawn scrutiny among legal experts. And those experts told The Daily Beast that McCormick appears to be testing the limits of testing the watersexploiting a loophole in campaign finance law to build out his operation while keeping those moves off the books.

Since March, McCormick has quietly operated a state-level PAC in Pennsylvania, called Pennsylvania Rising. But The Daily Beasts review of the PACs disclosures, together with a raft of reporting on McCormicks backstage moves over that same timeline, suggest that the investment manager may have dual purposes in mind.

McCormick, husband of former Donald Trump administration official Dina Powelland until 2022 the head of the worlds largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associatesis one of the GOPs top 2024 recruits. Hes also likely the Republican Partys best bet to unseat longtime Democratic incumbent Sen. Bob Casey. In 2022, McCormick conceded the GOP primary in a nailbiter to fellow wealthy non-Pennsylvanian Dr. Mehmet Oz, but for the last several months, hes been setting the stage for a second act.

Pennsylvania Recount Shows Oz Beat McCormick by Only 951 Votes

In six months, Pennsylvania Rising has managed to raise roughly $1.2 millionin an off-election year for the state. That includes a $1 million contribution in June from the states wealthiest denizen, GOP megadonor Jeff Yass. At the same time, the PAC has put most of that money not towards its stated purpose of boosting state GOP candidates, but to firms and consultants who either worked for McCormicks 2022 campaign or have joined his current operation.

Story continues

McCormick appears to be flagrantly bending the rules, according to Dan Weiner, a former Federal Election Commission attorney and current director of elections and government at the Brennan Center for Justice.

This is ostensibly a state PAC that seems more obviously like a federal PAC, Weiner said. These are the sort of moves that have become common, the creative allocation of money. But if youre assembling an entire apparatus, theres no way to square that with saying youre not sure youre running.

Candidates considering a campaign for federal office may enjoy a testing the waters grace period, where they can raise and spend money for services that help inform their decision. But if a candidate does opt to run, they must retroactively disclose that financial activityand it must comply with the rules that apply to any federal campaign.

This grace period was once a rarity, Weiner explained, a narrow carve-out for candidates who truly arent sure they want to run. But more and more candidateslike Trump and Ron DeSantishave been treating it as a black box, he said, as a way to forestall disclosure and undermine campaign transparency, a fundamental building block of campaign finance law, and it has far outstripped anything it was originally supposed to bea long-term shadow campaign you run until you decide on your own timeline when you want to make it official.

Its a culture of impunity, and thats the kind of thinking that gets you to a place where a sitting member of Congress is charged with stealing a donors credit card, Weiner said.

McCormicks official declaration this month didnt amount to much more than a formal nod to what supporters and observers had long considered a fait accompli. Reporting from as early as January has made clear that McCormick has been overtly testing the waters for quite some time, with one Philadelphia Republican Party official even landing on that very metaphor this summer.

I was told he stuck his toe in the Atlantic Ocean and the temperatures not where he needs it to be right now, the official told The Philadelphia Inquirer in August. The same outlet reported that GOP insiders confided in January that McCormick had already begun interviewing media firms for a potential campaign.

Pennsylvania Rising, however, is a glaring flag.

The group, which McCormick created in March, spent more than $700,000 in the months and weeks leading up to McCormicks formal Oct. 1 candidacy declaration, according to The Daily Beasts review of state filings. But most of that moneymore than $400,000went to consultants, firms, and officials who also happened to work for McCormick, either in 2022 or now. That includes his current campaign spokesperson, Elizabeth Gregory, who doubles as the spokesperson for Pennsylvania Rising and has received around $55,000 for that work.

Gregory did not return The Daily Beasts detailed request for comment.

One consulting firm, ColdSpark, openly touted its work on McCormicks 2024 campaign launch in an email last month, which was reviewed by The Daily Beast.

Heres a glimpse into all the hard work and professional craftsmanship that went into making the launch of one of the most important U.S. Senate races in the country a huge success, the email said.

The spending also doesnt appear to square with the mission statement on the PACs website.

Pennsylvania Orders a Recount in GOP Senate Primary

Pennsylvania Rising is fighting to protect our conservative values by supporting Republican candidates running for state office in Pennsylvania, the statement says. We will take on the challenges facing Pennsylvania Republicans and serve as an avenue to address important issues including vote-by-mail and voter registration disparities.

While Pennsylvania Rising has paid more than $400,000 to known McCormick hires, it has only contributed a quarter of that amount to candidates and committees. Pennsylvania held most of its statewide elections last year, leaving an extremely narrow group of judicial and special legislative elections, most of which were over in May.

Additionally, the PACs expenses to popular GOP fundraising firm Targeted Victoryanother McCormick hire from 2022have already run well over $200,000, cannibalizing the PACs total small-dollar fundraising and eclipsing its political contributions.

In all, the activity raises the specter of a low-profile shadow operation to help McCormick get a jump on his all-but-inevitable plunge into 2024. And that activity, experts said, pushes and might even exceed the limits of the law.

Saurav Ghosh, director of federal reform at nonprofit advocacy group Campaign Legal Center, reviewed Pennsylvania Risings filings, telling The Daily Beast that McCormick will need to answer for the groups activity.

The idea of using a state PAC thats stated purpose is to advance other GOP candidates in Pennsylvania is, just by following the money, clearly not the majority of what its doing, Ghosh said. The majority of its money is being spent on consultants and other strategists, and thats an important question that he will need to answer.

Because McCormick filed his candidacy the day after the third quarter reporting period ended, any possible testing the waters campaign activity wont be disclosed until the next round of reports are due in January. And while Ghosh allowed that its possible that McCormick might eventually reveal that this PAC conducted some of that exploratory work, one major fact would appear to take that off the table.

That would be the groups fundraising. Pennsylvania allows unlimited individual political donations at the state level, as reflected in Yass $1 million gift to the PAC. But that contribution alone would make almost all the PACs current funds off-limits for federal campaign activity, according to Paul S. Ryan, an expert in campaign finance law and deputy executive director at the Funders Committee for Civic Participation.

Any entity directly or indirectly established by a federal candidate must comply with the federal ban on soft money, Ryan told The Daily Beast, noting that the individual donor cap for a primary campaign is $3,300. A single donor cannot give $1 million to a federal candidate.

Kevin McCarthys Fall Is a Body Blow to the GOP Money Machine

But while the PAC has burned through most of Yass money, as of Sept. 18, it still sat on about $450,000. That fact, Ryan said, conjures the recent memory of DeSantis, whose presidential efforts got a controversial multimillion-dollar boost from his state-level PACand drew a federal complaint from Campaign Legal Center.

McCormicks the creator of the state-level PAC, so that should be dispositive that the money should not be used in his federal election campaign, Ryan said, saying that such a move would be flatly illegal.

However, its possible that McCormick could try the move that the DeSantis team made, when his state PAC contributed more than $80 million to a super PAC.

Its not a legal maneuver, but one that he might try to get away with, because the Federal Election Commission hasnt enforced those rules, Ryan said.

McCormicks campaign might not expressly need the moneyhe put more than $14 million of his own funds into his five-month sprint in that years primary. (His team also reportedly launched a super PAC months ago, using it like DeSantis to build political infrastructure.)

But the PAC offers other advantages that could benefit a Senate bid, such as underwriting polling, research, and strategic consulting services.

To that point, disclaimers on both the PACs website and its donation landing page reveal that McCormick has been using the group to acquire a personal list of supporters and potential donors. Those disclaimers tell supporters that, by entering their personal information, they agree to receive emails, text messages, and phone callsincluding automated callsnot just from Pennsylvania Rising, but also from Dave McCormick. McCormick can tap this PAC asset as a federal candidate, though he would be required to report the list as an in-kind contribution to his campaign.

Notably, the PAC started raising money immediately from small-dollar donors across the country. Its first financial filing revealed donors from Florida, Texas, Tennessee, California, Virginia, South Carolina, Michigan, and Oregon going neck and neck with its home-state support.

Ghosh said its possible the PAC is double-dipping, both testing the waters for McCormick and helping other Republicans.

Thats not unlikely or improbable, but we would still need to know if thats happening, he said.

Of course, McCormick already had a federal campaign. In fact, he now has two of them, launching a new campaign committee called Friends of Dave McCormick before terminating his 2022 vehicle, Dave McCormick for U.S. Senate.

Its unclear why McCormick created a parallel group, rather than re-engaging his existing campaign. However, in recent weeks his 2022 committee was hit with a number of FEC notices, including for reports from last year. The notices have flagged an array of apparent errors and violations, including excessive contributions and improperly reported debt.

The debts include not just the $14.4 million in loans that McCormick never recouped, but another $407,000 still owed to two prominent Republican consulting firms for work from 2022. Until the campaign committee reconciles those debts, however, it cannot shut down. It has $7,266.82 in the bank.

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New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) Amid power crisis in the state, Karnataka Energy Minister K J George on Thursday said there is no load shedding in the state and the government is making efforts to purchase power from other states to fulfill the demand.

George, who was here to attend the Congress Central Election Committee Meeting, said there is power shortage in the state due to poor monsoon and as a result daily electricity generation has been lower by 30-40 million units (MU) than the estimated daily demand of 270-280 MU.

Also Read | Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR: Poor Air Quality Driving 50% Rise in Lung, Chest Problems.

"There is no load shedding in the state. We are purchasing power from different states to meet the shortage," he told reporters.

He also clarified that "no artificial electricity shortage" has been created as has been alleged by opposition JD(S) leader and former chief minister H D Kumaraswamy.

Also Read | Kupwara Encounter: Five LeT Terrorists Killed in Gunfight With Security Forces in Jammu and Kashmirs Machil Sector.

The state is committed to provide uninterrupted power to the people and is buying power from different states, he added.

Highlighting the steps taken to address the power shortage, the minister said the issue has been flagged with the Centre which has agreed to provide 2 lakh tonnes of coal to the state for power generation.

Besides, the state government has negotiated for swapping power from the Uttar Pradesh government during the pre-solar and post-solar hours to an extent of 300 to 600MW from October 23 to May 24. This power will be returned to UP between June 24 and September 24, he said.

A similar swapping arrangement has been finalised with Punjab for 500 MW of Round the Clock (RTC) power from November 2023 to May 2024, he said.

Further, the state has plans to procure power through a short-term tender to the extent of 1,250 MW power on an RTC basis and 250MW on real-time basis as and when required primarily to meet the peak hours demand. Permission from the Karnataka Electricity Regulatory Commission on a cap-rate basis has been obtained.

According to the minister, the state hydel reservoir storage level is currently sufficient to meet 14MU for balancing the grid operation. The government has decided to impose section 11 of the Electricity Act 2003 for all the Open access Generators in the state to mitigate the demand.

Also, Chief Executive Engineer-rank officers have been appointed for each district to closely monitor the power supply and ensure that equitable power supply is given across the state, the minister said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jammu/New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) The Pakistan Rangers opened unprovoked firing at Indian posts along the International Border in the Arnia sector in Jammu Thursday night, a senior BSF official said, adding that its troops were retaliating "befittingly" to it.

The exchange of gunfire was underway till last reports came in, the official said.

Also Read | Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra: EC Asks Modi Government Not to Undertake Yatra in Poll-Going States Till December 5.

According to reports, some BSF jawans were injured in the firing, but there was no official confirmation.

The firing by Pakistani troops started around 8 pm, the Border Security Force (BSF) said. "The firing is still on," the BSF said.

Also Read | Israel-Hamas War: Modi Government in Touch With Israel, Gaza Authorities for Safety of Indians There, Says Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi.

The "unprovoked firing" is befittingly retaliated by BSF troops, it stated.

Senior BSF officers were rushing to the spot, officials said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) A parliamentary panel reviewing the three bills to replace as many existing criminal laws may recommend a more stringent sentence, up to five years instead of the current two years, for those convicted of causing death due to negligence amid criticism that the current statute is too lenient, sources said.

With the committee likely to recommend a raft of changes in the three bills tabled in the Lok Sabha during Parliament's Monsoon session in August, there is a view that the government may withdraw the proposed laws and introduce their fresh versions to avoid procedural complexity that amended proposals may cause.

Also Read | Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR: Poor Air Quality Driving 50% Rise in Lung, Chest Problems.

The standing committee on the home affairs is, however, likely to stick to the Hindi names given to the three bills, turning down suggestions from some members representing opposition parties to lend them English titles as well, the sources said.

The panel is scheduled to meet on Friday to adopt its draft reports.

Also Read | Kupwara Encounter: Five LeT Terrorists Killed in Gunfight With Security Forces in Jammu and Kashmirs Machil Sector.

In another likely recommendation, the committee headed by BJP MP Brij Lal may seek a reduction in sentence for those convicted of deterring public servant from discharging their duties.

Sources said the Section 353 of the Indian Penal Code provides for a maximum of two years of prison term and the committee may seek to slash it to one year. The law is often used against those staging protests and many members of the committee are of the view that common protestors should be dealt with leniently.

The current criminal provisions covering deaths caused by negligence under Section 304(A) have faced criticism as it is a bailable offence with a maximum sentence of two years. Fatalities caused in road accidents or building collapse often fall under this Act.

Seeking a complete overhaul of colonial-era criminal laws, Shah had introduced three Bills to replace the Indian Penal Code (IPC), The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 and the Indian Evidence Act, 1872 with Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, respectively.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 26 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat are among the other dignitaries who will attend the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22, Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janambhoomi Trust said on Thursday.

"...22nd January will be the date for Pran Pratishtha...Prime Minister Narendra Modi has accepted the invitation to attend the Ayodhya Ram Temple consecration ceremony. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath and other dignitaries will also attend the ceremony along with PM Modi," Rai told the reporters here.

Also Read | Maratha Quota: Two Men Commit Suicide in Chhatrapati Sambajhinagar and Hingoli Seeking Reservation.

PM Modi on Wednesday received a formal invitation for the consecration ceremony of the grand Ram temple.

Calling it a day full of "emotions", PM Modi said that he feels "blessed" and that it is his good fortune that he will be witnessing such a historic occasion.

Also Read | Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: AAP Releases First List of 23 Candidates for Upcoming Polls.

"Today is a day full of emotions. Recently, the officials of Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust came to meet me at my residence. He has invited me to come to Ayodhya on the occasion of the consecration of Ram temple," PM Modi wrote on X (Formerly Twitter)

"I feel very blessed. It is my good fortune that, in my lifetime, I will witness this historic occasion," his post read.

Champat Rai, General Secretary of Ram Janambhoomi Trust, said on Wednesday that the idol of Lord Ram will be installed at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22 next year.

"Today, along with members of the Shri Ram Janambhoomi Trust, we met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. We have invited him (PM Modi) to come on January 22 to install the idol of Lord Ram in the Garbhagriha. He has accepted our request. He will be present on January 22. The date for 'Pran Pratishtha' on January 22 is confirmed," Champat Rai said.

It is pertinent to note that the Supreme Court's verdict in 2019 on the Ayodhya dispute paved the way for the construction of a grand Ram temple. Following the apex court verdict, the centre set up the Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Tirtha Kshetra' Trust to take all decisions regarding the construction of a magnificent Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

The construction of the temple has been progressing at a steady pace under the supervision of the Trust. The idol of Ram Lalla will be in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple.

The foundation stone for the construction of the Ram Temple was laid by PM Modi on August 5, 2020. (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], October 26 (ANI): Congress party workers on Thursday staged a massive protest outside the Rajasthan Enforcement Directorate office, against the ED raids conducted at State Congress Chief Govind Singh Dotasara's premises earlier in the day.

The raid by ED was conducted at Dotasara's residence in connection with the Senior Teacher 2nd Grade Competitive Examination, 2022 Paper Leak case.

Also Read | Internet Ban in Manipur Extended For Additional Five Days Till October 31.

Meanwhile, the central probe agency has also summoned Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son and Congress leader, Vaibhav Gehlot in the same case.

The ED's move has triggered sharp reactions from the Congress leaders, who have alleged that the Centre is using agencies to weaken Opposition ahead of the elections.

Also Read | Chhattisgarh Assembly Elections 2023: EC Issues Notice to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for Akbar Remarks During Poll Campaign.

Responding to the summons, Vaibhav Gehlot said everyone knew why this was happening.

"I have received a summon. 12-13 years ago similar allegations were made and we had responded to them. Now again, ED has come. People of Rajasthan do understand why this is happening when model code of conduct is imposed in the state" Vaibhav Gehlot told reporters in Sikar.

Earlier, Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that as elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, and IT become the real "Panna Pramukh" of the BJP.

Taking to 'X', Kharge wrote, "As elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, IT etc. become the real 'Panna Pramukh' of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last move! After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders entering the assembly election campaign in Rajasthan"."The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP," he added.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also criticised the ruling BJP claiming that it has created "terror" in the country.

Earlier, Congress leader Sachin Pilot said that the "timing", "objective" and "intent" behind the raids conducted by the central government agencies in Rajasthan is "suspicious", which determines that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) finds itself weak ahead of the Rajasthan assembly elections.

"We have elections in Rajasthan in a few days. The Model Code of Conduct is in place here... The timing, objective and the intent of the raids conducted by the central government agencies in Jaipur and other cities today is questionable and suspicious," Pilot said in a press conference on Thursday. (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 [India], October 26 (ANI): Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh is set to address the second Indian Air Force Commanders' Conference of 2023 in the national capital on Thursday, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.

Deliberations on national security challenges and ways to enhance India's overall air power will be discussed at the conference, the Ministry added.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration on January 22, 2024: PM Narendra Modi to Attend Pran Pratishtha Ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Muslim Leaders Want Him to Also Lay Mosques Foundation.

Rajnath Singh on Tuesday culminated his two-day visit to Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

He interacted with Armed Forces personnel deployed in Assam's Tezpur region during 'Barakhana' organized Monday evening.

Also Read | Dussehra 2023: Ahmedabad Residents Celebrate Festival With 17 Lakh Kg of Fafda-Jalebi Worth Rs 175 Crore.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty at Tawang War Memorial in Arunachal Pradesh and appreciated the soldiers for shouldering the responsibility of guarding the borders.

He also performed Shashtra Puja at Tawang, held special prayers, and will be celebrating Vijayadashami with soldiers.

Rajnath Singh appreciated the efforts of the soldiers in securing the borders of the country in sub-minus temperatures at an altitude of 15000 feet above sea level.

He asserted that there is no option but to bolster the country's security apparatus, underlining that all efforts are being made by the Government to strengthen the nation's military prowess through indigenous production of defence equipment.

Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande accompanied the Defence Minister during his visit. (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, Oct 26 (PTI) A special NIA court here on Thursday sentenced an operative of the proscribed Indian Mujahideen to 10 years' imprisonment in a terror conspiracy case of 2012, an official said.

Syed Maqbool was convicted under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act by the special NIA court here on September 22. His sentence was pronounced on Thursday. He is the fifth person to have been sentenced in the case out of the total 11 accused, a spokesperson of the federal agency said.

Also Read | Chhattisgarh Assembly Elections 2023: EC Issues Notice to Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma for Akbar Remarks During Poll Campaign.

On July 12, four persons -- Danish Ansari, Aftab Alam, Imran Khan and Obaid-Ur-Rehman -- were found guilty in the case and sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment.

The official said Maqbool of Nanded area of Maharashtra was arrested in the case on February 28, 2013 for his active involvement with members of the Indian Mujahideen based in the country and Pakistan and his involvement in the crime and conspiracy.

Also Read | Rajasthan Assembly Elections 2023: Congress Releases Third List of 19 Candidates for Upcoming Polls.

It has been revealed that he maintained close ties with key figures of the Indian Mujahideen, including Riyaz Bhatkal, who is based in Pakistan, and Imran Khan and Obaid-Ur-Rehman, who are located in India, the spokesperson said.

They said the operatives hatched a conspiracy to carry out attacks at various locations within India, with Hyderabad being a primary target. Extensive reconnaissance of important sites, including those in Hyderabad, was also conducted by them.

The case, registered in 2012, pertains to the conspiracy hatched by the members of the Indian Mujahideen, a group responsible for organising a series of devastating blasts across the country between 2006 and 2013, the spokesperson said.

These acts of terror include the Varanasi blasts on March 7, 2006; the Mumbai serial blasts on July 11, 2006; the UP courts serial blasts in Varanasi, Faizabad and Lucknow on November 23, 2007; the Hyderabad twin blasts on August 25, 2007; the Jaipur serial blasts, the Delhi serial blasts, the Ahmedabad serial blasts in 2008; the Chinnaswamy Stadium blast in Bangalore in 2010; and the Hyderabad twin blasts in 2013.

The trial in this case pertaining to the remaining six accused persons, who face a range of charges under the IPC and the UA(P) Act, is ongoing, the spokesperson said.

In March, the accused, including Yasin Bhatkal, Asadullah Akhtar, Zia-Ur-Rehman, Tehsin Akhter and Hyder Ali, were formally charged in the case.

(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], October 26 (ANI): A Delhi Court on Wednesday extended the police custody of the accused in the alleged murder of Swiss Woman Nina Berger, by five days.

He was arrested on October 21.

Also Read | ED Searches Residence of West Bengal Minister Jyotipriya Mallick at Salt Lake in Kolkata in Corruption Case (Watch Video).

Metropolitan magistrate Divanshu Sajlan extended police custody of the accused, Gurpreet Singh, by five days.

Delhi police moved an application seeking an extension of custody of the accused to interrogate him.

Also Read | Ram Mandir Inauguration on January 22, 2024: PM Narendra Modi to Attend Pran Pratishtha Ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Muslim Leaders Want Him to Also Lay Mosques Foundation.

An unidentified woman's body found near the wall of an MCD school located in Tilak Nagar was that of a Swiss national, police said on Saturday, adding that the accused has been arrested.

Police had also seized the car used in the commission of the crime by the accused.

Following the murder, as per police sources, accused Gurpreet dumped the body in the same car on a roadside.

During the interrogation, the accused revealed that he had met the woman through a social media networking website four years ago.

"The meeting, which took place three to four years ago, turned into a friendship, and the accused fell in love with the girl. However, the girl had another boyfriend, which did not go down well with the accused," police said.

"The accused called the girl from Switzerland to India on the pretext of meeting her and then tied the girl's hands and legs with a chain, saying that he would give her a surprise in 10 minutes and choked her to death," police added.

The woman was found dead near the wall of an MCD school located in Tilak Nagar on Friday morning.

According to the police, the accused had purchased a car by showing the ID of another girl and dumped the body in the Tilak Nagar area.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) Vichitra Veer said on Friday they had received a call between 8:45 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Tilak Nagar police station about the incident, and specialized teams reached the spot.

"Prima Facie, we thought that it was a murder case. We registered a case under sections 302 and 201 and started an investigation. Nearby cameras showed a suspicious car passing by. We identified the car, it was brought from a second-hand car dealer in Janakpuri with cash. We traced an accused named Gurpreet. He was using the car. We apprehended Gurpreet from Janakpuri last night," DCP Vichita Veer said.

"Only initial interrogation has taken place. He is not very cooperative. It is a confirmed fact that the body was dumped in a car. The victim was in touch with the accused for the last 8-10 days," he added.

According to officials, police recovered Rs 1.5 crore from the accused, which he had allegedly acquired by selling the property. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) [India], October 26 (ANI): Asking whether a single industry has been launched or even a single job is created in the State in the past four-and-half years, Nara Bhuvaneswari, the wife of former chief minister and TDP supremo, Chandrababu Naidu, on Thursday advised the State Government to focus on development of the State than on the open letter to the public released by Chandrababu.

Addressing a public meeting as part of her ongoing 'Nijam Gelavali' (truth should prevail) yatra, Nara Bhuvaneswari said that the State Government takes credit for harassing and causing trouble to others. "It is not important to register attempt-to-murder cases against those who are on fast but take measures to supply water to the lands that are going dry," Bhuvaneswari remarked.

Also Read | Pakistan Violates Ceasefire in Arnia Sector of Jammu and Kashmir; BSF Troops Give Befitting Reply.

Observing that whenever there is any auspicious function in the house Lord Venkateswara comes into their minds, she said she had to have darshan of the Lord alone on Tuesday. It is 48 days since Chandarbabu has been confined to jail, she said that she saw her grandson Devansh almost 48 days ago.

Maintaining that Chandrababu has developed the pilgrim centres in the State, she said that after becoming the chief minister in 2014, Chandrababu has designed the plans to develop one sector in each district. Anantapur district has been transformed as an automobile hub while Chittoor district has been developed as electronic manufacturing hub, Nara Bhuvaneswari stated.

Also Read | Maratha Quota: Two Men Commit Suicide in Chhatrapati Sambajhinagar and Hingoli Seeking Reservation.

Regretting that almost all the industries that have been launched during the TDP regime have deserted the State now, Bhuvaneswari said that the jobs that are due for the youth in the State are being given for the jobless in the neighbouring States. Amara Raja Batteries is a classic example of this as they invested Rs 9,300 cr in Telangana, she added.

"Governments of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra and New Delhi invite us to start our Heritage units and provide all the necessary facilities. They never threatened us," Bhuvaneswari said.

As the chief minister of combined Andhra Pradesh, he tried hard to get Indian School of Business (ISB) where those who are studying there are earning in lakhs of rupees while this Government is simply chasing away the investors, she added.

Expressing concern that attempt-tomurder cases are being foisted against those who had burnt the effigy on the campus of SV University where Chandrababu studied, Bhuvaneswari said that cases have been registered against women activists of the Jana Sena when they spoke to the media. Is it the greatness of the State, she asked and wanted the people to think about the future of the State.

Chandrababu asked her to console the family members of those who die of shock after he was arrested, she said and made it clear that the TDP will always solidly stand by them. Stating that she is feeling proud that lakhs of people are turning out to her meetings only out of affection towards Chandrababu, she called upon the people to fight unitedly taking inspiration from the Mahatma's call.

Later, Nara Bhuvaneswari clarified the doubts raised by women who attended her meeting. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hyderabad, October 26: A live-tv debate turned unsightly when Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLA KP Vivekananda grabbed BJP candidate Kuna Srisailam Goud by the throat. "KCR's Party MLA assaults BJP Leader On Live TV debate In Telangana. Vivekananda attacking Goud by holding the latter's throat is an act of timidity," Telangana BJP chief G Kishan Reddy said in a statement.

Reacting to BRS MLAs behaviour and the incident that took place, BJP senior leader and OBC morcha chief K Laxman told ANI "When the TV debate is going on naturally opposition leader puts a lot of question, so answer the question and face it. But due to frustration and depression, as they (BRS) are losing ground, he (BRS MLA) physically assaulted a BJP candidate, this shows how BRS is in total depression." Telangana: Sitting BRS MLA KP Vivekananda Goud Loses Cool, Physically Attacks and Grabs BJP Candidate's Throat During Live News Debate (Watch Video).

BRS MLA Attacks BJP Candidate in Telangana

BJP MLA candidate Kuna Srisailam Goud attacked by BRS sitting MLA KP Vivekanandapic.twitter.com/rnANDgtDZn  Kreately.in (@KreatelyMedia) October 25, 2023

"They are now losing the battle so imagine how government machinery and money corruption taking place. This gentleman was questioned on land grabbing and corruption, so he lost his temper. We strongly condemn it and we demand that the police book a case and arrest the fellow, otherwise, the BJP will take legal action," he added.

The BJP further demanded that the BRS MLA be disqualifed from contesting the election and asked the Election Commission to take action against him. "We demand to disqualify him from the contest and we also will appeal to the election commission to take immediate action against him. This is a message to the people of Telangana that they (BRS) may cross any limit in the election. This happened in front of thousands of people in a TV debate, so you can imagine how the abuse of power of this ruling party BRS has been" K Laxman said. Telangana Assembly Elections 2023: BRS Still Undecided on Candidates for Four Seats.

Assembly elections in Telangana will be held on November 30 and counting of votes will take place on December 3. Telangana is set to witness an intriguing triangular contest between the BRS, Congress, and BJP. In the previous Assembly elections in 2018, the BRS won 88 of the 119 seats, hogging 47.4 percent of the total vote share. The Congress finished a distant second with 19 seats and a vote share of 28.7 percent.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Two dead in Australian bushfires as officials warn of worse to come

Two people died during evacuations amid hundreds of bushfires raging in Australias Queensland, with authorities warning there was worse to come.

Around 350 people were evacuated from the Tara region, where an out-of-control blaze ravaged more than 11,000 hectares of land and left 16 homes in ruins, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services said at a briefing.

On Tuesday night, a man lost his life while attempting to safeguard his property and a woman died on Wednesday after suffering a cardiac arrest while preparing to evacuate.

The deaths come after two firefighters were reported dead in New South Wales (NSW) last week.

Hundreds of firefighters have been working to control the bushfires raging for weeks in four regions of Australia - Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales and Northern Territory.

Authorities warned that high temperatures this year and dry winds could make this the worst bushfire season since the Black Summer of 2019-2020.

This is going to go on for a long time, the fire services acting chief superintendent Warren Buckley said. Were planning for it to go on past Christmas and into early next year. It will be a long campaign until we get some rain.

Australia has had an unusually hot spring and winter season. In the northern hemisphere this summer, record-breaking wildfires scorched large parts of Europe and Canada.

Temperatures in Queensland reached 42 degrees Celsius on Wednesday - significantly higher than monthly averages. Earlier this week, the region recorded temperatures around 10 degrees higher than average.

2023 is on track to become the hottest year in human history, driven by man-made carbon pollution and the cyclic El Nino pattern. This summer in the northern hemisphere was already declared record breaking by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and Nasa.
Saharanpur (UP), Oct 26 (PTI) Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat on Thursday said there may be different communities and sects but the religion of the whole world is the same.

Bhagwat was addressing a 'bhoomi-puja' ceremony at the Shri Krishna temple in Sarsawan town of Saharanpur district.

Also Read | Air Pollution in Delhi-NCR: Poor Air Quality Driving 50% Rise in Lung, Chest Problems.

"The religion of the whole world is the same. Religion has been described in different ways at different times. Everyone looks different but their religion is the same. Their objective is the same. We are all one and will remain one," he said.

"Saari duniya ka dharm ek hai, panth or sampradai alag alag ho sakte hain (There may be different communities and sects but the religion of the whole world is the same)," Bhagwat said.

Also Read | Kupwara Encounter: Five LeT Terrorists Killed in Gunfight With Security Forces in Jammu and Kashmirs Machil Sector.

"Seers also belong to different sects but from within, they are all one. When we protect religion, religion protects us. The entire creation needs religion. We have no enmity with anyone. We carry the feeling of friendship with everyone. If religion ends then creation will end," he added.

Bhagwat also took part in a conference of seers of the Shri Krishna Gyan Mandir as its chief guest. He later participated in the silver jubilee festival of Shri Krishna Gyan Mandir located in Pant Vihar Colony.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], October 26 (ANI): Fuelling the "poster war" within the INDIA bloc, Congress workers on Thursday put up posters portraying Congress MP Rahul Gandhi as the Prime Ministerial candidate outside the party's headquarters in Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow.

The poster also pictured state Congress Chief Ajay Rai as the Chief Ministerial candidate for the 2027 state assembly polls.

Also Read | Karnataka Road Accident Videos: 12 From Andhra Pradesh Dead After SUV Rams Into Parked Truck on Bengaluru-Hyderabad Highway; Low Visibility Led to Tragedy, Say Cops.

It included the goals and policies of the Congress party.

Earlier, the Samajwadi Party (SP) workers put up posters of SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav showing him as "future Prime Minister", to which the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) reacted and termed it as "daydreaming".

Also Read | Share Market Today: Markets Continue To Fall for Sixth Day Running Amid Negative Global Trends and Foreign Fund Outflows.

The Congress and the Samajwadi Party are allies in the INDIA alliance, which was formed to take on the ruling BJP in the Lok Sabha polls in 2024.

However, the alliance has yet to finalise its PM candidate.

The Congress and the SP have opened a fresh front after state unit chief Ajay Rai announced that he would go to meet jailed Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan who is in Sitapur jail after he and his son were convicted in the fake marksheet case.

The move hasn't gone down well with the SP, Akhilesh Yadav questioned the Congress for not supporting Azam Khan when he was being targeted by the state administration.

"Where was the Congress when Azam Khan was being targeted, the leaders of the Congress were in-fact targeting Azam Khan" said Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday.

Earlier, tensions arose within the INDIA alliance with Uttar Pradesh Congress Unit Chief Ajay Rai asking the SP to withdraw from MP in favour of the grand old party as the Akhilesh Yadav-led party, he said, did not have any base there.

In response to it, the SP chief alleged that some "Congress leaders are siding with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)", adding that he would not have trusted the grand old party if he had known that "Congress would betray them".

He further said he was unaware of the fact that the INDIA bloc has been formed at the national level to defeat the BJP and the alliance partners are not fighting together at the state level. (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, October 26: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in a roadshow organized in Chennai on Thursday regarding the Global Investor Summit to be held in Uttarakhand in December. During this, Chief Minister Dhami held a meeting with investors from various sectors. Along with Chief Minister Dhami, Uttarakhand cabinet ministers Satpal Maharaj and Saurabh Bahuguna also participated in the Chennai Road Show. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami invited investors from various groups who had come to the roadshow for the Global Investor Summit to be held in Dehradun in December.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand are spiritually interconnected. Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu and Shri Kedarnath and Adi Kailash in Uttarakhand are world-famous. He said that Lord Shiva is present in Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu and Shri Kedarnath Jyotirlinga in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand and Tamil Sangamam will be taken forward. Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023: From Investment Targets to Policies, All You Need to Know About Pushkar Singh Dhami-Led Govt's Mega Initiative to Draw More Investments.

He said that apart from being a world-class tourist destination in Uttarakhand, there is immense potential for investment in many sectors like food processing, auto component manufacturing, education and health. Uttarakhand is an investment-friendly state with the basic mantra of Peace to Prosperity. For this, excellent human labour, better infrastructure facilities, a peaceful environment and transparent incentive policies have been established by the government. Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Interacts With People In Nainital, Reviews Development Work (See Pics).

CM Dhami Meets Investors In Chennai:

                                              pic.twitter.com/5lDRVbXBd1  Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) October 26, 2023

He said that the state government has included traditional sectors of the state like tourism, AYUSH, wellness, food processing, automobiles, pharma as well as alternative energy and IT as focus sectors. The Chief Minister said that the road shows organized so far have been receiving very positive responses from investors from within the country and abroad. He said that only by building strong relationships and establishing partnerships with the private sector, we can move forward rapidly in the direction of economic progress and creation of employment opportunities in the state, that is why the state government in Uttarakhand has established better relations with industries. Top priority has been given to enhancing relations and coordination.

CM Dhami Addresses Chennai Roadshow:

LIVE: Addressing in Chennai Roadshow "The Uttarakhand Global Investors Summit 2023"#InvestInUttarakhand https://t.co/zlpebDAIx9  Pushkar Singh Dhami (@pushkardhami) October 26, 2023

The Chief Minister said that to make the state investor-friendly, more than 30 policies have been reformed in the last few months. He said that the theme of the Global Investor Summit has been kept as "Peace to Prosperity". Along with tourism, wellness and hospitality industries, many new and non-traditional industries are being developed in Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is being established as a major pharma hub of the country.
Bhopal, October 26: The Centre was continuously in touch with the Israel government to ensure safety of Indians there amid the war in Gaza, Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi said on Thursday. A war broke out between Israel and the Hamas after the latter's devastating raids on October 7. The war has killed several thousand people on both sides so far.

"We have evacuated people from Israel under Operation Ajay. Our Embassy is continuously connected to them (authorities there). They have our numbers. Our people are working at the ground level. Arrangements have been made for their (indians) security in bunkers," she told reporters. Israel-Hamas War: Nine Arab Countries Issue Joint Statement, Condemn Targeting of Civilians and Violations of International Law in Gaza.

"We are in continuous touch with the (Israel) government and also in Gaza to ensure safety of Indians. Being in government, it is our duty. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is making all efforts for this," the Union minister of state for external affairs said.

The Union government has earlier evacuated Indians from strife in Afghanistan and Yemen and amid the Russia-Ukraine war, she pointed out.

Hailing the PM, she said he had launched policies for social, economic and political empowerment of women, and it was the result of such efforts that no party has the strength to overlook women. Israel-Hamas War: Hamas Commander Hassan Al-Abdullah Killed in Israeli Airstrike, IDF Confirms (Watch Video).

"Earlier too this (women reservation) bill was talked about but underhand dealings used to take place. It would be tabled and then would get scuttled. But for the Modi government women's empowerment is not about vote bank but a mission for nation building," Lekhi asserted.
New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC, part of Aditya Birla Capital, on Thursday reported a seven per cent decline in net profit to Rs 178 crore in the September quarter.

The asset management firm had posted a net profit of Rs 191.7 crore in the year-ago period, Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC said in a statement.

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The company's revenue from operations rose eight per cent to Rs 335 crore in the quarter under review from Rs 311 crore a year ago.

ABSL AMC's assets under management stood at Rs 3.1 lakh crore in the second quarter of the current fiscal, registering a growth of 10 per cent.

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Founded in 1994, the Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC is co-owned by Aditya Birla Capital and Sun Life (India) AMC Investments Inc. It is one of the leading asset managers in the country, servicing around 7.89 million investor accounts with a pan-India presence across over 290 locations.

(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, Oct 26 (PTI) Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has taken care of all the senior citizens of the national capital like his own parents, Revenue Minister Atishi said on Thursday while addressing elderly persons embarking on a pilgrimage under a government scheme.

The 80th train under Chief Minister Teerth Yatra Scheme departed for Dwarkadhish with 780 elderly devotees from the Safdarjung Railway Station here, an official statement said.

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Ahead of the journey, a 'Bhajan Sandhya' was organised at the Thyagaraj Stadium by the Delhi government for all the devotees travelling on this train. Atishi met the elderly passengers and distributed travel kits and tickets to them.

"It is a matter of great pride for us that today the 80th train under Chief Minister Teerth Yatra Scheme is departing for Dwarkadhish. On behalf of all senior citizens of Delhi, I would like to thank CM Arvind Kejriwal for taking care of them like his own parents and arranging this pilgrimage for them. He has taken care of all the senior citizens of Delhi like his own parents," Atishi said while addressing the devotees at the stadium.

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She extended her best wishes to the pilgrims and urged them to have a fulfilling journey and pray for the prosperity of the nation and Delhi.

So far 79 trains have taken over 77,000 elderly people on various pilgrimages across India under the Chief Minister Teerth Yatra Scheme, the statement said.

This scheme facilitates journeys for senior citizens to Rameshwaram, Dwarkadhish, Somnath, Nageshwar, Jagannath Puri, Baba Mahakal in Ujjain, Shirdi Sai Baba, Tirupati Balaji, Ayodhya, Mata Vaishno Devi, Pushkar, Fatehpur Sikri, Golden Temple in Amritsar, Kartarpur Sahib, Mathura-Vrindavan, and Haridwar, it added.

(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, Oct 26 (PTI) The Delhi University will begin setting up its East Delhi Campus using funds from the loan corpus of Rs 930 crore approved by the Higher Education Financing Agency, the varsity's vice-chancellor Yogesh Singh said.

Speaking to PTI on Wednesday, Singh said, "The request for HEFA loan of Rs 930 crore has been approved for various development projects, including work for the East Delhi campus," Singh said.

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Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) is a joint venture company of Canara Bank and the Ministry of Education. HEFA provides financial assistance for the creation of educational infrastructure and research facilities in India's premier educational Institutions.

A varsity official said DU's East Delhi Campus is expected to be ready within 2 years after the construction begins.

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Using the approved loan, an academic building at Surajmal Vihar, which will serve as the university's East Campus, will be built for Rs 120 crore, work for which is slated to start in the next three to six months, the official said.

The university that currently has two campuses -- North and South -- had announced expansion plans a few years back. The plans envisaged the construction of East and West campuses to introduce more courses and a centre for law.

After a meeting with the HEFA on Thursday, DU's finance office said a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be submitted by Monday to start the work on setting up the new campus.

"A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed between HEFA and the university for releasing the funds after the DPR is cleared," another official said.

DU's finance office will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) based on which the amount will be released for individual projects upon the submission of the bill directly to the vendor, the official said.

The Delhi University is also slated to begin work for constructing academic buildings in Najafgarh and Dwarka for Rs 100 crore and Rs 95 crore respectively, and multiple academic blocks at Delhi School of Economics with Rs 201 crore.

Additionally, a studio apartment for students in north-west Delhi's Dhaka for Rs 161 crore is also in the pipeline, officials said.

A total of Rs 195.62 crore of the loaned amount will be used in the construction of the building of the Faculty of Technology, work for which has already begun and would likely be completed by October 2024, they added.

The Delhi University had sent a proposal to the Centre for funding the construction of the East campus.

The HEFA loan will be paid in 20 half-yearly instalments by the varsity -- 10 per cent of interest -- will be paid by DU while the remaining interest will be paid by the Centre over a period of 10 years.

Asked about how the university would generate funds to pay its share of the loan amount, Singh said the university has sufficient funds to repay the amount.

"We have sufficient funds for repaying 10 per cent instalment," he said.

"A slew of development projects in Delhi University are in the pipeline. One of the projects is underway and all of them will be completed in 24 months. Other projects will begin in the next six months," an official said.

The money for the payment of tax for these development projects will, however, be released to the Delhi University, as per the official.

The proposal to borrow money from the HEFA was accepted by the Executive Council last March despite some members showing dissent.

(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, Oct 26 (PTI) IT company Infosys has signed a five-year collaboration with automotive company smart Europe GmbH to refine its direct-to-customer business model in Europe, the company said on Thursday.

Under the deal, Infosys will work with smart Europe GmbH to provide enhanced customer experience, data-driven personalisation and engagement for the existing model smart 1, the newly announced smart 3, and other upcoming all-electric models.

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Infosys, in a statement, said that "it has signed a five-year collaboration with automotive marquee smart Europe GmbH to refine its Direct-to-Customer (D2C) business model in Europe and provide enhanced customer experience, data-driven personalisation and engagement for the existing model smart 1, the newly announced smart 3, and other upcoming all-electric models from the iconic brand".

smart Europe GmbH is a wholly-owned subsidiary of smart Automobile Co -- a joint venture by Mercedes-Benz AG and Geely Automobile Co.

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"Through this strategic collaboration, Infosys will help smart Europe GmbH redefine the online EV buying experience and apply machine learning (ML) models to accurately forecast sales and after-sales demand," the statement said.

To enable smart Europe GmbH derive exceptional value from software, data, and cloud investments, Infosys will leverage its trusted process, functional and technical expertise, complemented by a design thinking-led consulting approach.

"We are pleased to have Infosys as our partner on this journey. Infosys' strong leadership commitment backed by its ability to drive end-to-end application development and maintenance with efficiency and effectiveness, will help us boost our operational performance and user experience," smart Europe GmbH Chief Executive Officer Dirk Adelmann said.

Infosys will also help smart Europe GmbH to efficiently sell electric vehicles across 15 European countries with a D2C sales approach and secure engagement across lead generation, prospect conversion, sales and aftersales channels, supplemented by end-to-end ownership and accountability.

"We are delighted to deliver our cutting-edge technologies to innovative companies like smart Europe GmbH to help ramp up their competitiveness in the European market. Leveraging a blend of our expertise in the domain and strong regional presence, we will help smart Europe GmbH fast-track the adoption of cutting-edge digital solutions," Infosys EVP and Global Head of Manufacturing Jasmeet Singh said.

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New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) Institutional investments in residential assets rose 71 per cent to USD 298.3 million during the July-September period, according to real estate consultant Vestian.

Housing segment had attracted an institutional investment of USD 174.3 million in the year-ago period.

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Vestian on Thursday released its report stating that the Indian real estate sector received institutional investments worth USD 679.9 million during the third quarter of 2023 calendar year, up 82 per cent from the same period last year when inflow was USD 374.3 million.

However, the total institutional inflow in the July-September period fell 57 per cent compared to the previous quarter due to a significant decline in foreign fund inflow.

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Commenting on the report, Vestian CEO Shrinivas Rao said, "Institutional investments have slowed down during the September quarter due to limited interest from foreign investors amid a challenging global macroeconomic landscape."

However, Rao noted that large conglomerates are calling their employees back to the office, which may inflate demand for office spaces across the country.

"As a result, upcoming quarters may witness increased investments on the back of this renewed demand from the office sector," he observed.

The share of domestic investors accounted for 71 per cent of total institutional investments received in the third quarter of 2023. On the other hand, the share of foreign investors reduced to 27 per cent during the period from 55 per cent in Q3 2022.

Across various asset class, Vestian said that residential sector attracted the highest institutional investments during the third quarter of this calendar year, although its share has reduced to 44 per cent in Q3 2023 from 47 per cent a year earlier.

Share of commercial assets (office space, co-working, retail, and hotels) declined to 24 per cent in Q3 2023 from 40 per cent in Q3 2022.

Office assets attracted USD 164.1 million worth of institutional investments during July-September as against USD 150 million in the year-ago period.

Industrial and warehousing assets received USD 190.3 million during July-September period, accounting for 28 per cent in the total inflow.

In the year-ago period, industrial and warehousing parks did not get any fund.

(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, Oct 26 (PTI) The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has allowed the withdrawal of the insolvency plea against Bajaj Hindusthan by the State Bank of India, as the outstanding amount has been paid by the sugar manufacturer.

SBI had moved an application before the Allahabad bench of the NCLT informing that the outstanding amount has been paid by the Corporate Debtor.

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Bajaj Hindusthan, during the pendency of the matter, has deposited "overdue amount towards Term Loan and OCD coupons, and has also assured to pay the future overdues/Installments with interest thereon, as and when, the same becomes due and payable," said a statement filed by SBI before the insolvency tribunal.

"Under such circumstances, the applicant, State Bank of India, has decided not to pursue its application u/s 7 of IBC 2016 at this stage," it added.

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Admitting this, a two-member bench of the NCLT "dismissed as withdrawn" the insolvency plea filed by the lead banker.

"In view of the averments made in the application and the statement made by the counsel representing the Financial Creditor (SBI) and there being no objection of the Senior counsel for the Corporate Debtor (Bajaj Hindusthan) to the said withdrawal of the main petition, the present application is allowed and the main petition is dismissed as withdrawn," said NCLT in its order on October 25.

However, it also added all parties are left to their further rights and remedies in accordance with law.

Later, the company in a statement thanked the lenders and stakeholders.

"It's a great feeling. As you'd know, it was a difficult period for the company when so much was at stake, none more than our reputation. We're relieved as well as grateful," said Bajaj Group Spokesperson Neeraj Jha.

This development will allow the company to focus on this business, which has an exciting future, he added.

Earlier in August 2022, a consortium of 12 banks had dragged Bajaj Hindusthan Sugar before NCLT over delayed payment of loan instalments and coupon rate interest on optionally convertible debentures.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
PARIS  Africas fashion industry has the potential to increase the continents prosperity by 25 percent, but the burgeoning sector must overcome hurdles including a lack of investment and infrastructure, patchy intellectual property legislation and high fabric sourcing costs, a UNESCO report said on Thursday.

Presenting the report at Lagos Fashion Week, Audrey Azoulay, director general of the United Nations cultural agency, said the continent holds all the cards to become one of the next world fashion leaders, provided government authorities mobilize to defend the interests of everyone from farmers to designers.

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Fashion is really taking off in Africa, and this report shows that it can be developed even further. In order to achieve this, designers, professionals and the entire production and distribution infrastructure need more support from public decision-makers, she said in a statement.

The potential is enormous, not only for the economy, but also for young peoples inclusion, womens empowerment and for African culture to resonate globally, Azoulay added.

To that end, the 80-page report, titled The Fashion Sector in Africa: Trends, Challenges and Opportunities for Growth, sets out a series of detailed recommendations.

The first study of its kind, it notes that despite being a major producer of raw materials, the continent imports much of its apparel, including a large amount of secondhand clothing of which an estimated 40 percent ends up as waste in landfill sites.

The market value of clothing and footwear in sub-Saharan Africa alone was estimated at $31 billion in 2020 and is set to continue growing every year. With 32 fashion weeks held every year, the continent is brimming with designers.

Africa is expected to be home to 1.7 billion people by 2030, the report underlined. Thanks to a growing young population and rapid digitalization, UNESCO forecasts a 42 percent increase in demand for African designer fashion over the next 10 years.

Story continues

This growing population is a comparative advantage for the continent, as it will enable the scaling up of industrial garment production, representing an opportunity for job creation and income generation. In addition, a rise in disposable incomes and a growing middle class are expanding the customer base for African fashion, it said.

While a combination of bespoke tailored and imported garments were the main source of clothing for most Africans in the last few decades, economic and social changes have led to a shift in the balance toward the production of African ready-made garments, both for local consumption and for export, it continued.

This trend is reinforced by evolving consumer tastes and an excitement for products made in Africa, which has been fueled in part by an increase in African creative production in other sectors, particularly film and music, the report said.

Many African fashion designers tap into local textile traditions, while some states and local authorities actively encourage people to wear domestically produced textiles and garments. Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi and Rwanda, for instance, promote Localwear Fridays.

Cotton is a major crop, produced in 37 out of 54 countries on the continent. It provides income to more than 3.5 million farmers, 17 percent of whom are women.

But while African cotton fiber production accounted for 7.5 percent of global production in 2022, sub-Saharan countries exported more than 81 percent of the raw cotton they produced rather than transforming and using it locally, the report found.

By exporting most of its raw fibers, the continent sees a consistent significant loss in the potential economic value of these crops and restricts the growth of the textile and fashion value chain in Africa, it said.

In an online press conference held ahead of the publication of the report, Toussaint Tiendrebeogo, head of the diversity of cultural expressions entity at UNESCO, outlined some of the challenges faced by the fashion sector.

He said the continent lacked investment in the infrastructures needed to transform cotton locally and help designers develop their brands. Another issue is the lack of professional training in fields ranging from design to entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.

Our study revealed that, even though there were nearly 500 training structures in Africa, few of them offered quality training of the kind that would allow this sector to realize its full potential, Tiendrebeogo said.

And while international trade agreements have increased the market for African products like raw cotton, these have also opened the door to the import of cheap textiles and clothes.

Noting that Africa is the destination of a third of all global exports of secondhand garments, he said this not only resulted in an environmental disaster but also prevented local clothing makers from selling their wares, since these secondhand imports are often cheaper. Finally, he highlighted the issue of appropriation.

For example, we noted that between 1994 and 2011, the export of textiles such as kente, which is produced in Ghana, or other traditional textiles fell by almost 30 percent precisely due to the fact that these designs are copied and reproduced elsewhere, and  this is the paradox  often even sold back to Africa, he said.

While issues of cultural appropriation are governed at the global level by World Intellectual Property Organization regulations, states often fail to transpose those rules at the national level, Tiendrebeogo said.

When these questions are brought in front of international courts, as we have seen in the case of Mexico, for example, states are often not well equipped to face off against large houses with deep pockets and huge legal teams, he said.

The official noted that UNESCO can provide additional protection by highlighting cultural heritage practices. For instance, Egypts Saeed weaving technique was added to the organizations List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding in 2020.

Globally, the report recommended strengthening legal protections for designers and professionals in terms of intellectual property rights, salary levels and working conditions. It noted that UNESCO is already helping 23 African countries to improve the status of artists through laws and regulations.

It said investment in small and medium-sized firms is key, as they account for 90 percent of businesses in the fashion sector in Africa and offer a gateway to employment for younger people.

The report also advocated that countries set environmental standards, noting that even though the fashion industry remains one of the most polluting industries, Africa can make greater use of local materials, innovate around sustainable textiles and raise awareness of sustainable consumption patterns.

Furthermore, the continent has the potential to become a leader in sustainable cotton farming. Organic cotton fiber output in sub-Saharan Africa grew by more than 90 percent from 2019 to 2020 and accounted for 7.3 percent of global organic cotton production, the report said.

Lastly, it recommended that countries set up mentoring schemes to ensure that traditional textile techniques are passed on from generation to generation.

In parallel, UNESCO called for an increase in the number of qualifications available in key related professions such as quality control, commercial law, marketing and in training in new technologies including 3D printing and e-commerce.

Across the continent, people are increasingly looking for products made in Africa, which they see as a symbol of pride and a way to affirm their identity. But in order to meet this growing demand, the entire production chain needs to be strengthened, said Omoyemi Akerele, director of Lagos Fashion Week.

This UNESCO report is useful because it maps out the path to achieve this, and it will increase the awareness of public decision-makers, she added.

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Deir Al Balah (Gaza Strip), Oct 26 (AP) Mahmoud Shalabi did not evacuate his home in northern Gaza despite the frightful Israeli warnings of a looming, far more brutal assault to come as it presses ahead with its war against the Hamas militant group.

The Palestinian aid worker is among hundreds of thousands who have remained. Others who initially heeded the Israeli warnings to head south have returned to the territory's north, where Israel says it considers all those who stay possible accomplices of Hamas.

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Shalabi said leaving his home in Beit Lahia didn't make sense considering the relentless bombardment of southern Gaza, where Israel has repeatedly urged the more than 1 million northern residents like him to seek refuge. The overcrowded shelters and shortages of water and food in the south played a part in their decisions, said Shalabi and others who remained.

Risk death at home, or elsewhere in Gaza, they said.

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Leaving would be reasonable only if Israel stopped targeting the south, said Shalabi, who works for Medical Aid for Palestinians, a U.K.-based charity providing health services. It doesn't make sense to me that I should leave my home to go and get killed in a tent in the south of Gaza, he said.

The risks for those staying in the north are likely to rise exponentially in the event of an expected Israeli ground offensive, after two-and-a-half weeks of heavy bombardments have already claimed more than 6,500 lives in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry.

With tens of thousands of troops massed along Israel's border with Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday Israel was preparing for a ground incursion. He refused to say when it would begin.

Israeli military officials have said they are determined to crush Hamas in response to its brutal Oct. 7 attack on Israeli border communities, and the focus will be on the north, including Gaza City, where Israel says key Hamas assets, tunnels and bunkers are located.

Some 350,000 Palestinians are still in northern Gaza, according to Israeli estimates. Military officials have repeatedly exhorted Palestinians to move south, but have not said whether the presence of a large number of civilians would be a factor in deciding whether to send in tanks and ground troops.

Israel says it seeks to strike Hamas and doesn't target civilians, but Gaza health officials say many of those killed have been women and children. Those numbers are expected to climb with a ground offensive, which would likely see fierce fighting inside crowded urban areas.

International rights groups have sharply criticized the Israeli evacuation orders, saying they cannot be considered effective warning to civilians, under the rules of international law, because of a lack of realistic options for those fleeing.

Those staying put in the north are bracing for worse to come. They live among the ruins of once bustling neighborhoods while facing dire shortages of fuel, food and water amid looming hospital shutdowns.

Services in the north have deteriorated since Israel's evacuation order prompted at least 700,000 Palestinians to flee south. Most homes have no electricity, water or fuel.

At least 1.4 million Gaza residents are now displaced across the narrow strip, out of a population of 2.3 million, and U.N. shelters are packed at triple their capacity, U.N. agencies say.

In the north, entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble.

"Everywhere there is debris, there are destroyed cars, there are destroyed houses. And it's really difficult to get from one location to the other because there is no fuel, Shalabi said.

He said he walked for two hours to find a bakery still selling bread to feed his family of 10. Shop shelves are empty; residents are living on canned beans, pineapple, corn.

The little fuel still available, often from private stockpiles, is sold for exorbitant prices. Some rent out small water pump motors, demanding 50 shekels ($12) an hour, a huge amount for the average Gaza resident.

This week Shalabi ran out of cash, and scoured the blocks of dilapidated streets to find a functioning ATM. There were none.

About 50,000 people are sheltering on the grounds of Shifa Hospital, Gaza's largest, in Gaza City. It is overwhelmed by a steady stream of wounded from airstrikes amid warnings that severe shortages of fuel, needed to power generators, could trigger a shutdown. No new fuel has been allowed into Gaza since the Oct. 7 raid.

Still, many Palestinians are choosing to return north, tired of moving from place-to-place under Israeli fire as shelters become overcrowded and unlivable. U.N. monitors estimate hundreds or even thousands have returned.

Ekhlas Ahmed, 24 and eight-months pregnant, was among them.

A week ago, she fled Gaza City after repeated Israeli warnings to move south. She returned after the home she was sheltering in along with 14 other family members in the south was hit by an Israeli airstrike.

It was a residential building and they bombed it, she said.

Ahmed, who has a 4-year-old son, is hoping for a ceasefire.

I am very frightened. All of us are frightened, she said. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Dubai, Oct 26 (PTI) A 44-year-old Indian national has been arrested for allegedly defrauding 150 UAE citizens by accepting advance payments to the tune of over INR 6 crore for the Haj pilgrimage, according to a media report.

Shabin Rasheed, who runs the Sharjah-based Baitul Ateeq travel agency, was taken into custody by the Dubai Police earlier this month, the Khaleej Times reported on Wednesday.

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"Rasheed defrauded 150 UAE nationals by promising them Haj pilgrimage but that never materialised," said the report.

Initially, Rasheed apologised and claimed that a last-minute change in visa issuance caused the issues.

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He promised refunds and said the funds from reselling accommodations originally booked for the travellers would be returned.

However, as time passed with no refunds and reports of similar incidents from previous years emerged, many filed complaints against Rasheed, leading to his arrest, the report said.

Dubai resident Saquib Imam, who paid Dh20,000 around this time last year, said he's received only Dh5,000 so far.

A widow in Sharjah, who parted with Dh130,000 to go on the pilgrimage with her teenage son, said she got only 13 per cent of her funds when she filed a complaint, the report said.

It's not immediately clear how many police complaints have been filed against the company or how many have been partially refunded.

Earlier, Rasheed claimed to have refunded 20 individuals, but he failed to provide evidence in terms of names and contact numbers despite repeated requests by Khaleej Times.

While Saudi Arabia had barred foreign pilgrims from performing the Haj in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, those who had paid Baitul Ateeq in 2020 claimed to have received nothing but empty promises. PTI

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Tel Aviv [Israel], October 26 (ANI): Condemning the recent remarks of United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres where he said Hamas's murderous October 7 onslaught "didn't occur in a vacuum", Israel President Isaac Herzog has said that he "absolutely rejects" his words and added that the problem with the conflict is terror.

Herzog's remarks came after at the Security Council meeting on Tuesday, Guterres stated that decades of Israeli military rule in the West Bank and Gaza, together with other factors, were the cause of Hamas's deadly October 7 offensive.

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According to The Times of Israel, the President's Residence released the transcript of remarks Herzog made yesterday in an interview with French television channel BFMTV.

"I heard the comments of the secretary-general of the United Nations Guterres," he said adding "In a way, he alluded as if the source of all this evil has to do with the [Israeli-Palestinian] conflict."

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"I absolutely reject his words, because there was a sort of implication or even consent for atrocities, for terror. The problem with the conflict is terror. The most inherent problem that derails the peace process between the Israelis and the Palestinians has to do with terror," Herzog had said.

During the interview, Herzog added that Israel follows international humanitarian law, which includes telling residents to evacuate northern Gaza. He also accused Hamas for keeping people from leaving the war-torn region, according to The Times of Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Tuesday had asked Gaza residents to share verified, valuable information about hostages being held in their area.

"If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the IDF asked Gaza residents.

"The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality," the IDF wrote on 'X'.

"The contact details are: Secure phone call: *8619; Whatsapp, Telegram, Signal:+972503957992," the IDF said.

The IDF on Saturday also said that "Civilians and hospitals in Gaza need fuel to produce electricity. Hamas has that fuel."

An IDF spokesman wrote: "Hamas continues to make its claims of its inability to supply hospitals, bakeries, and civilians with fuel. They steal diesel from civilians and transfer it to their tunnels, bombers, and commanders."

Meanwhile, one of the two hostages recently freed by Hamas, Yocheved Lifshitz, has said she "went through hell" after being kidnapped by the terrorist group in the October 7 attack on Israel, CNN reported.

The 85-year-old on Tuesday remembered the moment she was abducted by gunmen on motorbikes after militants broke into her home in the Kibbutz Nir Oz.

Lifshitz said: "It was difficult but we will get through this." She made the remarks at the Tel Aviv hospital where she has been recovering since being freed.

Hamas released Lifshitz and her neighbour and friend Nurit Cooper, 79, on Monday, and later they were reunited with family members who rushed to their bedside at Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv.

The release of the two women brings the total number of captives freed to four, but more than 200 hostages are believed to be trapped in Gaza, some within the labyrinth of Hamas tunnels dug beneath the coastal strip. (ANI)

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Tel Aviv, October 26: The Israeli fighter jets carried out overnight airstrikes over 250 Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip including a rocket launch site that was hidden between a mosque and kindergarten, Times of Israel reported on Thursday. IDF has called this "another proof" that terror group Hamas uses "civilian sites for terror purposes".

The sites struck by Israel included Hamas infrastructure, command centers, tunnels, and rocket launchers, according to the IDF. The IDF said that the rocket launchers were "placed in the heart of civilian areas that fired toward Israeli territory throughout the war." It further said that the missile launch site is "located adjacent to a mosque and kindergarten, which is further proof that Hamas deliberately uses civilian sites for terror purposes." Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Forces, Including Tanks, Enter Gaza to Target 'Terrorist Cells and Anti-Tank Missile Launch Posts', IDF Shares Video of Operation.

Israeli Air Force also said in a statement about attacking over 250 terror targets of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. "Terrorist infrastructure, combat tunnel shafts and launchers in a civilian environment; The Air Force attacked over 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the last day, fighter jets of the Air Force attacked more than 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip," Israeli Air Force posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Among the targets that were attacked, were terrorist infrastructures, operational headquarters, terrorist tunnel shafts and rocket launchers placed in a civilian environment, which were used to shoot at Israel during the fighting.

Separately, the IDF said that the Navy forces struck a Hamas surface-to-air missile launch position in Khan Younis, Times of Israel reported.

IDF also posted a purported audio conversation between an IDF officer and Gazan civilian about Hamas terrorists not allowing civilians to evacuate towards Southern Gaza. Israel-Hamas War: Russia, China Veto US-Led Draft Resolution in UNSC To Allow Aid Access to Gaza, Rival Text by Moscow Also Fails.

"LISTEN to an IDF officer in Unit 504 encourage a resident of Gaza to evacuate southward for their safety. Hamas continues to use the civilians of Gaza as human shields, not allowing them to evacuate," IDF posted on X

Meanwhile, the families of 224 hostages have been notified about their keen being held in the Gaza by Hamas, Times of Israel reported.

IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said that the military has so far notified the families of 224 hostages that their loved ones are being held in the Gaza Strip. He said that the number is not final as the military investigates new information. Notably, the number does not include four released hostages -- mother and daughter Judith and Natalie Ra'anan, freed on Friday night, and elderly women Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper released on Monday night, Times of Israel reported.

Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7, which killed over 1400 people and left several more injured. After this, Israel launched a strong counter-offensive against Hamas units in Gaza strip. According to the health ministry of Hamas, the death toll in Gaza has crossed 7,000, Times of Israel reported.

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Phuket (Thailand), Oct 26 (PTI) Cybersecurity firm Kaspersky on Thursday cautioned against malware StripedFly, saying it has affected over a million people across the world in the past six years.

Initially, StripedFly was acting as a cryptocurrency miner, but it turned out to be a complex malware with a multi-functional wormable framework, the Russia-based entity said in a report released here.

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The report said, "Kaspersky experts have uncovered previously unknown, highly sophisticated StripedFly malware with global reach affecting over a million victims since at least 2017."

"The malware payload encompasses multiple modules, enabling the actor to perform as an APT, as a crypto miner, and even as a ransomware group, potentially expanding its motives from financial gain to espionage," it said.

Also Read | Israel-Hamas War: Russia, China Veto US-Led Draft Resolution in UNSC To Allow Aid Access to Gaza, Rival Text by Moscow Also Fails.

The actor behind this operation has acquired extensive capabilities to clandestinely spy on victims, Kaspersky said.

The malware harvests credentials every two hours, pilfering sensitive data such as site and Wi-Fi login credentials, along with personal data such as name, address, phone number, company and job title.

Furthermore, the malware can capture screenshots on the victim's device without detection, gain significant control over the machine, and even record microphone input.

"Threat actors' ability to adapt and evolve is a constant challenge, which is why it's so important for us as researchers to continue to dedicate our efforts to uncovering and disseminating sophisticated cyber threats and for customers not to forget about comprehensive protection," Sergey Lozhkin, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky's Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT), said.

Kaspersky researchers have also suggested a few measures that would help in preventing the attack of StripedFly malware.

"In order to avoid falling victim to a targeted attack by a known or unknown threat attacker, update your operating system, applications, and antivirus software regularly to patch any known vulnerabilities," they added.

The experts also suggest verifying the sender's identity before sharing any personal details or clicking on suspicious links, and remaining cautious of emails, messages, or calls asking for sensitive information.

Headquartered in Moscow, Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company. Its security portfolio includes leading end-point protection, specialised security products and services, as well as cyber-immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats.

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New Delhi, October 26: The Court of First instance of Qatar has passed a verdict of death penalty for the eight former naval officers who were detained in Doha, the Ministry of External Affairs said. The MEA said it is "deeply shocked" by the verdict and now awaits the detailed judgement.

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the MEA said in an official press release. "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added. This matter is very important to us, the MEA said adding that and they have been keeping a close eye on it. Israel-Hamas War: IDF Infantry Hits Several Tanks, Hamas Outposts Inside Gaza Strip, Ground Assault Imminent (Watch Video).

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," the MEA release said.

"Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," it added. The eight Indian nationals have been imprisoned in Qatar since October 2022 and were accused of allegedly spying on a submarine programme.

Verdict in the case of 8 Indians detained in Qatar: "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options We attach high importance to pic.twitter.com/lcCy7dAkcE  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 26, 2023

New Delhi had been granted consular access to the eight Indians and had been working to secure their release. The Indian nationals had their first trial in late March. Meetu Bhargava, who is the sister of one the officers detained and lives in Gwalior, sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back. Israel-Hamas War: Enough Is Enough, No Green Light to Israel for Unconditional Killing, Says Qatars Emir Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani.

In a post on X on June 8 she had appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene. "These Ex Navy officers are the pride of the nation & again I request our Hon'ble Prime Minister with folded hands that it is high time that they all are brought back to India immediately without any further delay pl. @narendramodi @AmitShah @rajnathsingh @MOS_MEA" she posted on X.

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Washington, Oct 26 (PTI) Two Indian nationals have been charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and launder drug proceeds, federal prosecutors have said. In the case, a New Jersey man has also pleaded guilty before a US District Court in Southern Illinois.

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The two Indian nationals are Aashish K Jain (37) and M Eshwar Rao. Moises A Sanabria (32) has admitted guilt to acting as a middleman between an India-based pharmaceutical distribution company and customers in the US.

According to court documents, Sanabria received pills containing furanyl fentanyl and tapentadol to New Jersey from the pharmaceutical drug distribution centre in India and then shipped orders directly to US customers between January 2018 and March 2021.

Also Read | Israel Bans UN Staff From Visiting Country Protesting Antonio Guterres' Statement That Hamas Attack 'Did Not Happen in a Vacuum.

The prosecutors said that on multiple occasions, Sanabria shipped orders to undercover agents for the Drug Enforcement Administration working in the Southern District of Illinois.

Regulated federally under the Controlled Substances Act, furanyl fentanyl is on Schedule I and tapentadol is on Schedule II, they said.

Acting Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Rehg, head of Drug Enforcement Administration enforcement operations in southern Illinois, said, "This man fooling people into thinking that pharmaceutical medications can be purchased without a prescription and mailed from India is not someone to buy anything from.

Laundering his illegal proceeds back to India is just another example of how these international criminal organisations illegally profit off Americans, Rehg said

To exchange currency between the US and India for drug proceeds, Sanabria established a limited liability company based in New York to transfer money. The LLC held and concealed USD 114,334 in drug proceeds from January to October 2021, the Department of Justice said. Money laundering conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of a controlled substance are all punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment. PTI / LKJ

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Jerusalem, Oct 25 (AP) Increased Israeli airstrikes are devastating parts of the Gaza Strip, jeopardizing relief operations and leaving neighbourhoods in shambles. A strike in the Nusseirat refugee camp on Wednesday killed several family members of one of Al Jazeera TV's chief correspondents, Wael Dahdouh. Strikes elsewhere destroyed homes and businesses and left many digging through the debris.

Health care facilities are doing their best to treat the wounded, but with supplies that are becoming scarce.

Also Read | Maine Mass Shooting: At Least 16 Killed, Over 50 Wounded After Gunman Opens Fire at Restaurant in Lewiston (Watch Video).

The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees says its relief operations across the Gaza Strip will need to be curtailed amid the airstrikes.

The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Health Ministry said Wednesday that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and 1,650 wounded in violence and Israeli raids since Oct. 7.

Also Read | Al Jazeera Gaza Correspondent Wael Dahdouh Loses Four Family Members in Israeli Airstrike, Video of Journalist Breaking Down Near His Sons Bloodied Body Surfaces.

The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas rampage. Israel's military on Wednesday raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released.

U.S. and other officials fear the fighting could spill over into a wider regional conflict.

Currently:

1. Al Jazeera Gaza correspondent loses family members in an Israeli airstrike

2. Florida orders state universities to disband pro-Palestinian student group, saying it backs Hamas.

3. Biden condemns retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank

4. Leader of Lebanon's Hezbollah holds talks with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures

5. Israel accuses UN chief of justifying terrorism for saying Hamas attack didn't happen in a vacuum'

Here's what's happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

FAMILIES OF ABDUCTED ISRAELIS MEET WITH ITALY'S PRIME MINISTER

ROME- Relatives of Israelis held hostage by Hamas met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Wednesday to speak about their anguish and raise awareness for their loved ones' plight in Gaza.

Nadav Kipnis' parents, Evyatar and Lilich Kipnis, were found dead days after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. His cousin is being held captive.

None of them deserved to be treated in such horrible ways. We have to spread the message of anything that can help. It's what my parents would have wanted, Kipnis said.

Ilan Regev's two children, 21-year-old Maya and 18-year-old Itay, were kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.

Hamas has said it seeks the release of all Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in exchange for the captives.

Give them everything, 4,000, 5,000 prisoners in Israel. I don't care, these are children, babies, bring them back, Regev said.

Since the militants' bloody attack more than two weeks ago, Meloni has traveled to Israel and visited Rome's main synagogue, where she pledged to defend Jewish citizens against every form of antisemitism.

ISRAELI STRIKE KILLS FAMILY MEMBERS OF AL JAZEERA BUREAU CHIEF IN GAZA

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip  An Israeli strike on Wednesday killed the wife, son and young daughter of Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh.

Footage aired on the Qatar-based TV network showed the veteran journalist, still wearing his blue body armor marked press, weeping over his son's corpse on a hospital floor.

They take vengeance on us through our children? he sobbed.

Another son, Yehia, was seriously wounded, and Dahdouh's grandson was also declared dead two hours later, the network reported. Other relatives survived the Israeli strike, including a toddler granddaughter.

This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians, Dahdouh, looking stunned, told Al Jazeera as he left the hospital.

The media network released a statement condemning what it called an indiscriminate assault on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. The camp is south of the area Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate.

In Gaza, Al Jazeera's Youmna Elsayed told the network: It's heartbreaking to be reporting about Wael's family and to see how broken he is.

U.N. SECURITY COUNCIL FAILS AGAIN TO PASS RESOLUTION ON ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. Security Council has failed again to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions.

The U.S. resolution would have reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza. Wednesday's vote in the 15-member council was 10 countries in favor, 3 against and 2 abstentions. The resolution was not adopted because both Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire," and unequivocally condemned Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza. The vote was 4 in favor, 2 against and 9 abstentions. The resolution wasn't adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

The council is charged under the U.N. Charter with maintaining international peace and security. But Wednesday's rejections, following its rejections last week of a Russian resolution and a Brazilian proposal, leave the Security Council divided and paralyzed in taking action on the Israeli-Hamas war.

Malta's U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier told reporters before the vote that if both resolutions failed, she would attempt to draft a compromise resolution.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Russia of submitting its text with no consultations in bad faith. Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called the U.S. draft a politicized proposal to shore up Israel.

IRAQI MILITANT GROUP SAYS IT ATTACKED BASE HOUSING U.S. FORCES IN SYRIA

BAGHDAD  An Iranian backed group in Iraq claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base housing U.S. forces in eastern Syria on Wednesday, as a string of attacks targeting U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria persist.

The Islamic Resistance group in Iraq, an umbrella organization for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it had struck the Kharab al-Jir base in the northeastern Hassakeh province with rockets. It said it hit its target, without making any mention of casualties.

Washington did not immediately comment on the attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a call Monday with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani, urged Sudani to pursue those behind the attacks and fulfill Iraq's commitment to maintain the security at these installations, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement Tuesday.

The past week has seen a spate of more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq in Syria, most of them claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against America's backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

BIDEN CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON PALESTINIANS BY ISRAELI SETTLERS IN THE WEST BANK

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Wednesday said there is no going back to the status quo in Israel and the region following the deadly attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.

When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next, Biden said during a news conference at the White House with the Prime Minister of Australia. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution.

Biden said again that he believed Israeli had the right  the responsibility  to respond to the attack. The anger, the hurt, the sense of outrage that the Israeli people are feeling following the attack is completely understandable, he said.

But he also decried the attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, and said it must stop and stop now, and he said he remained focused on humanitarian aid into Gaza.

AIRSTRIKE IN GAZA CITY KILLS MORE THAN 2 DOZEN AND INJURES OVER 100, HAMAS SAYS

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on Wednesday killed at least 26 people and injured more than 100, Hamas' Interior Ministry said.

Bodies of dead men and women were scattered in streets that had relatively little damage while a block of buildings lay in ruins with people searching for survivors.

Two wounded young boys embraced each other and appeared to be crying as a first responder and three other men carried them to safety on a stretcher.

A man with blood running from his scalp into his eye and down his cheek looked stunned as he sat on what remained of a sofa propped in the rubble, while a girl, who was also wounded, hugged him.

FRANCE'S MACRON ANGLES FOR INTERNATIONAL COALITION TO FIGHT HAMAS

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron is promoting, with little success so far, the creation of an international coalition to fight the armed Palestinian group Hamas.

He pitched the idea during a two-day trip to the Middle East that started in Israel.

Leaders he met with in Israel, the West Bank, Jordan and Egypt didn't publicly address the issue.

The first response to the devastating Israel-Hamas war is the fight against terrorism, Macron said Wednesday after his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

The right response is to cooperate, to draw lessons from the international coalition against the Islamic State group that intervened in Iraq and Syria, he added.

Macron first proposed the idea Tuesday after his meeting with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, mentioning a regional and international coalition against Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu did not specifically comment on the proposal.

U.S. EMBASSY IN KUWAIT TO LIMIT ACTIVITY ON MILITARY BASES AFTER IRAQI MILITIA'S THREATS

JERUSALEM  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is acknowledging an Iraqi militia's threat to target U.S. military bases in the Mideast nation over the Israeli airstrikes targeting the Gaza Strip in its war on Hamas.

In a statement to American citizens, the embassy identified the threat as coming from Awliya Wa'ad al-Haq, or The True Promise Brigades. That group, believed allied with Iran, has claimed an attack previously on the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

As a result, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is limiting its activity on U.S. military bases to essential and official events only, the embassy said in an alert.

NETANYAHU SAYS HE WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR HAMAS' ATTACK

JERUSALEM  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will be held accountable for the bloody Oct. 7 massacre by Hamas militants, but that will only come after Israel's war against the Islamic militant group.

In a nationally televised address Wednesday night, Netanyahu said he was busy plotting a ground invasion of Gaza, though he refused to say when that might happen. He also expressed sorrow over the attack, which killed more than 1,400 Israelis and saw over 200 others taken captive in Gaza.

Oct. 7 is a black day in our history, he said. We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border around Gaza. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

FRANCE TO SEND NAVY SHIP TO BRING AID TO GAZA STRIP, MACRON SAY

CAIRO  French President Emmanuel Macron said France is going to send a Navy ship to bring aid to hospitals in the Gaza Strip.

The ship will leave the French military port of Toulon, in the Mediterranean Sea, within 48 hours, he said. He didn't provide further details.

In addition, a French plane will arrive in Egypt on Thursday to deliver medical equipment via a convoy to Gaza. Others will follow, Macron said, adding that France wants to provide Gaza's civilian population access to medicine and medical care.

Macron's visit to Egypt comes as part of a two-day tour to the Middle East that started with a visit to Israel meant to show France's support and solidarity following the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. The trip included a stop in Ramallah, in the West Bank, to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and another stop Wednesday morning in Jordan for talks with King Abdullah II.

Macron in Egypt said, There's no double standard  international law applies to everyone.

All victims deserve our compassion, our commitment toward a fair and sustainable peace in the Middle East, he added. (AP)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Hollywood actor Jonathan Majors will face a trial on domestic abuse charges after a New York judge denied the motion to dismiss the case. The trial date is set to begin on November 29. Majors appeared in a lower Manhattan courtroom via Zoom because he is out of state, reports Variety. During the hearing, his defence attorneys filed a motion to request that "contested evidence" remain under seal and barred from public view due to the "high profile" nature of the case and allegations against Majors. Jonathan Majors Assault Case: Marvel Planning to Replace the Actor as Kang the Conqueror in Upcoming Projects - Reports.

Defence attorney Seth Zuckerman told Judge Michael Gaffey that he believes "the disclosure of sensitive information will limit Mr Majors right to a fair trial." As per Variety, the judge did not yet rule on the motion and told reporters in the room they could submit papers to oppose it by November 6. Following the decision, a spokesperson for the Manhattan District Attorneys office issued a statement saying: "We look forward to presenting our case at trial." Jonathan Majors Allegedly Inflicted 'Extreme Abuse' on Two of His Previous Romantic Partners, Actor Accused of Strangling Them - Reports.

The actor was arrested in Manhattan on March 25 and charged with assault and aggravated harassment after an alleged domestic dispute with his girlfriend at the time, Grace Jabbari. Variety further states that Majors has pleaded not guilty to the four charges levelled against him. If convicted of misdemeanour charges of harassment and assault, he faces up to one year in jail. Prior to the hearing, the Manhattan District Attorneys office filed a 115-page response to the actors motion to dismiss the case. The document alleges that Majors legal team has leaked and misrepresented court evidence, as well as attempted to have police create a wanted poster with Jabbaris photo.
Ayodhya, October 26: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22, 2024. Members of the temple trust formally extended an invitation for the ceremony to the Prime minister in Delhi on Wednesday. General Secretary of the Sri Ram Janambhoomi Trust, Champat Rai, officially confirmed the date of January 22, 2024, for the installation of the idol of Lord Ram in the 'Garbhagriha' (sanctum sanctorum) of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Lord Ram's idol will be placed inside the temple on this day. The invitation to Prime Minister Modi was issued one day after the announcement by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, confirming the installation of Lord Ram's idol at the Ayodhya temple on January 22. He also urged people to arrange events at temples throughout the country to commemorate this significant occasion. Ram Mandir Idol Consecration: PM Narendra Modi Invited by Temple Trust to Visit Ayodhya, Says 'I Feel Very Blessed' After Receiving Invitation (See Pic).

Ahead of the Prime Minister's visit to Ayodhya, some Muslim leaders have requested the Prime Minister to also lay the foundation stone of the new Babri Masjid. In the 2019 landmark Supreme Court ruling in the Ayodhya land dispute, the judgment said that the Ram Mandir would be constructed at the 2.77 acres disputed site and Muslims would be given an alternate 5-acre land in Dhannipur for the construction of Babri Masjid.

While 'Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra' was formed for the construction of the temple, the 'Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation' was formed to oversee the mosque's construction. Iqbal Ansari, who was one of the main petitioners in the Babri Masjid-Ram temple dispute, held members of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation responsible for the delay in the mosque's construction. Ram Mandir Is Divine, Will Look How It Was in Treta Yug: Chief Priest Gives Update on Construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya (Watch Video).

Expressing displeasure with the pace of the mosque's construction, he demanded that the trustees of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation be changed. While Lord Ram's idol is to be placed in the temple in January, the foundation stone of the mosque is yet to be laid.

"Our Prime Minister is coming to Ayodhya on an auspicious occasion. We request him to start the work on the mosque also. This is our heartfelt wish," said Mohammad Ismail Ansari, President, Indian Muslim League.

Nazmul Hasan Ghani, Acting State President, Indian Muslim League, requested Prime Minister Modi to bring along Imam Ahmed Bukhari of Jama Masjid and Dr Ilyasi, President of the All India Imam Organization, and lay the foundation stone of the Dhannipur mosque.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 26, 2023 08:32 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
(PA)

A woman was convicted after she took a three-year-old girl from the UK to Kenya to undergo female genital mutilation (FGM).

Amina Noor, 39, was found guilty on Thursday at the Old Bailey, where jurors heard how the victim was forced to have her clitoris completely removed when she was just three years old, in 2006.

When the victim got older, she "formed a close relationship with her English teacher at school and, in November 2018, revealed she had been subjected to FGM," prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said.

When spoken to, the defendant said she thought the procedure was just an injection and afterwards the girl was "happy and able to run around and play".

But when examined in 2019, it emerged that in fact the girl's clitoris had been completely removed.

Noor appeared "shocked and upset" and said that was not what she thought was going to happen.

According to an initial account, Noor described going with another woman to a "clinic" where the girl was called into a room for a procedure.

The defendant said she was invited in but refused because she was "scared and worried".

Senior Crown Prosecutor Patricia Strobino speaks to the media outside the Old Bailey (PA)

Afterwards, the girl appeared quiet and cried the whole night and complained of pain, according to the account.

Ms Heer said: "She was asked whether, when she arrived at the clinic or even before then, she felt she did not want it to happen.

"She said, 'Yeah I thought about it but then, you know, got it done'."

Jurors were told the defendant was born in Somalia and moved to Kenya at the age of eight during the civil war in her home country.

She was aged 16 when she came to the UK and was later granted British citizenship.

The defendant described what had been done to the girl as "Sunnah", meaning "tradition" or "way" in Arabic, and said it was a practice that had gone on for cultural reasons for many years.

Ms Heer agreed it was widespread and "everyone had it done" in the defendant's community.

Story continues

"However, that very common practice is not limited to piercing or pricking.

"In fact, 87% of women and girls who had undergone FGM in Kenya had their genitalia cut, with some flesh removed," she said.

The court was told that 94 per cent of females of Somali origin living in Kenya undergo the procedure, according to United Nations figures.

This is the very first conviction of its kind under the FGM Act of 2003 and carries a maximum sentence of 14 years.

To date, the only other successful prosecution was in 2019 when a Ugandan woman from Walthamstow, east London, was jailed for 11 years for cutting a three-year-old girl.

Ms Heer alleged Noor had "encouraged and assisted" in the offence and cast doubt on her claim that she only expected the girl to be "pricked" to draw blood.

Ms Heer said: "Not only was the procedure carried out upon (the girl), the excision of the clitoris, a very common type of FGM, but the defendant had been discussing precisely the kind of FGM before she took (the girl) to that clinic."

The prosecutor told jurors: "You will wish to consider the defendant's behaviour at the time and whether she genuinely did not want (the girl) to be circumcised.

"After all, it does not appear that she ever refused.

"It is striking that she asked no questions when the clinic turned out to be a normal house.

"She did not inquire whether the people were doctors, or that they were qualified to do what they were supposed to do.

"She did not insist on being present when (the girl) was called into the treatment room.

"She did not talk to the Kenyan lady about what procedure would be carried out.

"After the event, she did not look at (the girl's) wound and said (she) did not appear to be in pain.

"Given what we know had been done to (the girl), can that be true?

"Or has the defendant sought to minimise her responsibility?"

Giving evidence in her trial, Noor, from Harrow, north-west London, said she was threatened with being "cursed" and "disowned" within her community if she did not take part.

She told jurors the threat gave her "pain", and added: "That was a pressure I had no power to do anything about."

The alleged victim, who is now aged 21, cannot be identified for legal reasons.
There were about 12 children travelling in the van. Five of them were injured and admitted to the Community Health Centre and private hospital for treatment, police said. One of the students, who was seriously injured, has been referred to the district hospital, they said.
New Delhi, October 26: More than 60 per cent of people on WhatsApp in India message a business app account every week and revenue from click to message ads in India has doubled year-over-year, Meta Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg has said. During the company's quarterly earnings call, he said that business messaging will be the next major pillar of the companys business.

There are more than 600 million conversations between people and businesses every day on our platforms. To give you a sense of what this could look like when it's scaled globally, every week now, more than 60% of people on WhatsApp in India message a business app account, Zuckerberg told analysts late on Wednesday, as Meta registered $34 billion in revenue in its third quarter, up 23 per cent from the same quarter last year iQOO 12, iQOO 12 Pro To Be Launched in India Soon With Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Processor: Check Expected Specifications, Features and Price Details Ahead of Launch.

Zuckerberg said that revenue from click to message ads in India has doubled year-over-year. I think that this is going to be a really big opportunity for new business AIs that I talked about earlier that we hope will enable any business to easily set up an AI that people can message to help with commerce and support, he mentioned.

Last month, Zuckerberg announced a new feature in India that will allow WhatsApp users to pay businesses using a variety of payment options, including all supported UPI apps, debit and credit cards, and more. The company partnered with online payment solutions provider PayU and Bengaluru-based Razorpay to add support for payments via credit and debit cards, net banking and all UPI apps in India.

According to him, most commerce and messaging is happening in countries where the cost of labour is low enough that it makes sense for businesses to have people corresponding with customers over text. In those countries like Thailand or Vietnam, there's a huge amount of commerce that happens in this way, said the Meta CEO. Facebook Parent Meta Registers USD 34 Billion in Revenue in Q3, AR-VR Business Remains in Red.

But in lots of parts of the world, the cost of labour is too expensive for this to be viable. But with business AIs, we have the opportunity to bring down that cost and expand commerce and messaging into larger economies across the world. So making business AIs work for more businesses is going to be an important focus for us into 2024, he noted.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 26, 2023 04:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
On 25 October Nuestro Tiempo (NT), a small opposition party in El Salvador, presented its request before the electoral authority to register, a retired military officer and lawyer, ahead of the February 2024 presidential election.

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On 25 Octoberthe eliminated presidential candidate for Argentinas traditional right-of-centre opposition coalition Juntos por el Cambio (JxC), signalled her support for the far-right populist candidate,, ahead of the 19 November run-off.

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Donald Trump was called to the stand for the first time during his New York fraud trial. However, this was not to defend himself but to get asked about comments he made outside the courtroom regarding the judge and the person sitting next to him.

The former president once again violated his gag order during an outburst in front of reporters just outside the courtroom. He complained that Judge Arthur Engoron was a "very partisan judge with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is."

This comment to reporters outside the courtroom got the former president summoned to the stand. Judge Engoron asked him who was this "very partisan sitting alongside him?" Trump stated that he was talking about Michael Cohen, but the judge reprimanded the ex-POTUS, saying that he did not believe him and that Trump was not credible. This led the judge to fine the former president $10,000.

"'The idea that that statement would refer to the witness, that doesn't make sense to me," the judge told Trump. "Don't do it again or it will be worse." This would be the second time Trump got fined for breaking the gag order this week after his campaign website did not take down a post attacking a clerk serving Judge Engoron.

According to The Daily Mail, Engoron was concerned for his clerk as Trump has a penchant for directing his followers to violence on his behalf. "I don't want anybody killed," the judge noted, adding that it was "very easy for anyone to know who that person is."

READ MORE: Donald Trump 2020 Election Trial: Mark Meadows Flip, Jenna Ellis Enters Guilty Plea

Donald Trump Storms Out of Courtroom in the Middle of His New York Fraud Trial

Soon after Trump was fined, Michael Cohen continued his testimony, heating things up even more. After some very animated back and forth, Trump's attorneys filed a motion to dismiss the case, but Engoron shot them down.

According to CNN, Trump attorney Cliff Robert asked Engoron to dismiss the trial because Cohen was a key witness for the New York attorney general. However, Engoron answered, "Denied."

"Absolutely not," said the judge regarding the request to dismiss.

He added, "There's enough evidence in this case to fill the courtroom."

Frustrated that things were not going his way, Trump then stormed off, telling reporters that the case should be dismissed, before flying back to Mar-a-Lago in Florida.

Thing Got Heated between Donald Trump Lawyers and Michael Cohen

Before he stormed off, his former attorney and fixer, Michael Cohen, testified, and this was when the fireworks started, according to CNBC.

Trump attorney Alina Habba cross-examined Cohen. It got tense as the Trump defense team attacked Cohen's credibility. Habba asked the former Trump attorney about his comments on CNN claiming that Trump's net worth was around $10 billion "on a low estimate." Cohen answered that this was what Trump wanted him to say.

Habba blamed Cohen for blaming others and invoked a massive argument between both sides, leading to Trump storming off.

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 fined $10,000 for violating gag order - ABC News
Yet another storm has slammed into the Pacific Coast of Mexico as Hurricane Otis brings rain, strong winds, and landslides. Now, the US National Hurricane Center is warning of a "nightmare scenario."

Hurricane Otis first made landfall in Acapulco, one of Mexico's premier beach destinations. It arrived as a Category 5 hurricane early Wednesday, leaving the resort city without any power. Officials are now only beginning to assess the damage the hurricane has caused to the city.

According to Yahoo! News, Hurricane Otis slammed near Acapulco at 12:25 AM, tearing through the coastal zone with torrential rains and 165 mph winds, which were so strong that it shook buildings and even tore the roofs off of buildings.

So far, there is still no word on casualties or how much damage Hurricane Otis has caused in Mexico. However, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador was in Acapulco and held a news conference there, saying that contact with the area was "completely lost."

The government has sent relief crews and military aid units, as well as several volunteers, not just to Acapulco but to other nearby areas, as well as smaller towns around Guerrero State. However, landslides and debris made the search and rescue efforts much more complicated as they blocked major highways, shuttered airports, and caused rivers to overflow.

The NHC pointed out that the structure of how Acapulco has been planned could provide a nightmare scenario for many because of the many cliff-side communities vulnerable to landslides in the area. Other hillside neighborhoods on the path of the storm have also been deemed vulnerable.

Hurricane Otis Downs Communications, Complicates Rescue Efforts

Mexican officials are having trouble in assessing the damage, as well as reaching certain areas because of the landslides and flooding brought about by Hurricane Otis, reported CNN.

READ MORE: Mexico Violence Erupts Across 2 States; 19 Dead, Including Cops and Officials

"We don't have a damage assessment because until now, there is no communication with Acapulco," said National Coordinator of Civil Protection Laura Velazquez during an interview. "We are going there because we do not have any communication with our colleagues who have already been there for a week doing preventive work for a tropical storm and which in 12 hours became a hurricane."

Over 500,000 customers are now also without power in the entire Guerrero state. However, authorities worked around the clock to restore the power, but so far, only 40% of those customers have had their power restored.

Hurricane Otis Caught Weather Forecasters and Experts Off-Guard

Hurricane Otis was a mild tropical storm that soon morphed into a monster Category 5 hurricane in record time, leaving many scientists baffled as the storm was far stronger than many of them predicted at the beginning.

According to the Associated Press, scientists are now scrambling for answers as their usually reliable computer models and forecasts failed to predict just how fast Otis intensified. Acapulco was only told to expect something as strong as a tropical storm, meaning it did not expect a Category 5 hurricane to hit.

In a span of a mere 12 hours, Otis more than doubled its strength. It went from 70 mph (113 kph) winds to 160 mph (257 kph), a new record. Storms usually gain or lose speed around 12 hours, with outliers reaching 30 to 50 mph in a day.

READ MORE: Mike Johnson: 3 Things You Probably Didn't Know About New US House Speaker

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Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Hurricane Otis makes landfall in Acapulco, Mexico - 10 Tampa Bay
Connor Bowman, a 30-year-old Minnesota poison specialist, has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder in the death of his estranged wife, Betty Bowman, according to CNN.

The Rochester Police Department reported that Betty Bowman, 32, sought medical attention at the Mayo Clinic in August due to intestinal problems and severe dehydration, but her condition worsened, resulting in her death four days later.

A criminal complaint revealed that computer records indicated Connor Bowman's online research into the drug colchicine, including procurement methods.

The medical examiner's office confirmed that the cause of death was "the toxic effects of colchicine," a medication primarily used to treat gout.

Significantly, Betty Bowman, a pharmacist, had never been prescribed colchicine and was not diagnosed with gout.

The University of Kansas, where Connor Bowman had been employed as a remote poison specialist, asserted that there was no legitimate reason for his research into colchicine as part of his work.

READ NEXT: Minnesota Man Kills 2, Injures 1 in Murder-Suicide

Minnesota Pharmacist Got Sick Morning After Drinking With Husband

Betty Bowman had become ill the morning after drinking with her husband, suggesting that a drink may have been mixed into a smoothie, AP reports.

Betty Bowman's health deteriorated rapidly after being admitted to a Rochester hospital on August 16. She presented with severe gastrointestinal distress and dehydration.

Initially, her symptoms were treated as though they were caused by food poisoning, but her condition continued to worsen.

Her deteriorating health was marked by cardiac issues, fluid accumulation in her lungs, and organ failure.

The Minnesota Department of Health found colchicine in Betty Bowman's blood and urine samples, and the medical examiner attributed her death to the toxic effects of the drug.

The Southeast Minnesota Medical Examiner's Office notified the police about the "suspicious death" of Betty Bowman on August 21, just one day after she passed away.

Minnesota Poison Specialist Tried to Stop Wife's Autopsy

Authorities also uncovered that he had attempted to halt his wife's autopsy, arguing for immediate cremation and claiming she had a rare illness. However, hospital tests did not confirm this, per CBS News.

The medical examiner's office intervened, citing suspicious circumstances. An autopsy later revealed that Betty Bowman died from the toxic effects of colchicine.

Notably, six days before her hospitalization, Connor Bowman had converted her weight to kilograms and multiplied it by 0.8, a dosage rate considered lethal for colchicine, according to the complaint.

One of Betty Bowman's friends told investigators that her marriage was in crisis due to infidelity and other issues, with divorce imminent.

The friend also indicated that the couple maintained separate bank accounts due to Connor's debts and revealed that he anticipated collecting $500,000 in life insurance. A receipt for a $450,000 bank deposit was discovered at his residence.

Connor Bowman was charged with second-degree murder and remains in custody.

The Mayo Clinic, where Connor and Betty worked as pharmacists, issued a statement indicating that he had been a resident at the hospital.

Connor Bowman, the Minnesota poison specialist accused of poisoning his estranged wife, Betty Bowman, is incarcerated in the Olmsted County jail, KTTC noted.

His bond is $5 million, and his next court appearance is scheduled for November 1.

READ MORE: Armed Wisconsin Man Fatally Shot by Police

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Medical student accused of poisoning wife - From FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul
Amina Noor arriving at the Old Bailey (Lucy North/PA) (PA Wire)

A British woman has been found guilty of handing over a three-year-old who was subjected to female genital mutilation in a legal first.

Jurors were told Amina Noor, 39, took the toddler, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to Kenya in 2006 where the procedure was carried out.

A court heard the girl, who was not told what would happen to her, cried for the whole night after the procedure.

On Thursday, Noor was found guilty of assisting a person to mutilate a girls genitalia while outside the UK, contrary to the FGM Act of 2003, following a week-long trial at the Old Bailey. She was granted conditional bail and is due to be sentenced on 20 December.

Prosecutors have said the conviction, which is the first of its kind, sends a clear message over the practice of FGM, which is shrouded in secrecy. Noor is also only the second person to be found guilty of any offence under FGM laws, which brings a maximum sentence of up to 14 years in prison.

During the trial, prosecutor Deanna Heer KC said Ms Noor travelled by tuk-tuk to a clinic at a private house in the east African country, where the girl was taken into a room on her own by a woman whose medical qualifications were not known.

The girl, who was born in Britain, was not told what would happen to her or was too young to understand.

Whilst they were there, she took [the girl] to the house of Kenyan woman, where [the girl] was subjected to female genital mutilation (FGM), she told the court.

Afterwards, the toddler was quiet but later cried the whole night, complaining of pain when she went to the toilet.

The incident was not reported until 2018, when the girl  then aged 16  confided in an English teacher who contacted the authorities.

During a medical examination at a London hospital in 2019, doctors confirmed the girls clitoris had been fully removed.

The case was heard at the Central Criminal Court, the Old Bailey (Nick Ansell/PA) (PA Archive)

Jurors heard the defendant was born in Somalia and moved to Kenya at the age of eight during the civil war in her home country. She was 16 when she came to the United Kingdom and was later granted British citizenship.

Story continues

The court was told that 94 per cent of women of Somali origin living in Kenya undergo FGM, according to United Nations figures.

In a police interview in 2019, Noor, who denied the charge, said she had expected the child to undergo Sunnah, which she said was the insertion of a needle in the genitalia to draw blood, but insisted she did not know her clitoris would be removed.

She said that it was a quick procedure and that although [the child] had cried when it was carried out, she was happy and able to run around and play afterwards, Deer told the court.

However, she said did not check the childs wound, nor did she want to, the court heard.

Giving evidence, Noor, from Harrow, northwest London, told jurors she feared she would have been disowned and cursed if she did not hand over the child.

She said: I didnt know whether this was going to be something that is harming (the girl) but I did not want to allow it whatever it might be. I was told I would be cursed if I refuse.

Senior crown prosecutor Patricia Strobino, who works in the CPS London Complex Casework Unit, hailed Noors conviction as sending a clear message on FGM, and urged other survivors to come forward. She said: This kind of case will hopefully encourage potential victims and survivors of FGM to come forward, safe in the knowledge that they are supported, believed and also are able to speak their truth about whats actually happened to them.

It will also send a clear message to those prospective defendants or people that want to maintain this practice that it doesnt matter whether they assist or practise or maintain this practice within the UK, or overseas, they are likely to be prosecuted.

She added: Part of the challenge of this type of offence is the fact that these types of offences occur in secrecy.

Within specific communities within the UK, although these offences and practices are prevalent, its often very difficult to get individuals to come forward to explain the circumstances of whats happened to them because there was a fear that they may be excluded or pushed away or shunned, isolated from their community.

Amina Noor, 39, was giving evidence at her trial at the Old Bailey in London (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Archive)

In a statement outside court, Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, of the Metropolitan Police, said: I hope this conviction demonstrates the lengths we will go to, to enforce the law on female genital mutilation.

If you reside in the UK and take, arrange or facilitate a child to be taken out of the country for this barbaric crime, no matter where it takes place in the world, we can convict you.

Responding to landmark case, an FGM campaigner called for urgent updates to outdated statistics for women and girls affected in England and Wales. Figures dating from 2014 estimate there are 137,000 impacted by FGM.

Nimco Ali, FGM survivor and cofounder of Five Foundation, a global partnership to end FGM, said: I underwent FGM at age 7, so I know this girls pain. When I told my teacher in Manchester, very little could be done to help me or others like me, who were affected by FGM.

Thankfully, things have changed so much in the last decades, following the work we have done to improve laws and policies, and get this issue out of the shadows and onto the front pages of national media.

It is incredible that the mandatory reporting by teachers and health care professionals - that we have fought hard for - is starting to pay off. A girl was obviously failed. She was let down by the system, but she got some form of justice today, thanks to the policies that we now have in place.

She added: We have to address FGM in the UK and everywhere by working together to address the root causes of the issue. The next step is getting a clearer sense of the number of women and girls who are affected here.
A heavy police presence and a closed-off blocks in West Bethlehem drew attention from residents on Wednesday.

Police were called to the area of Spring Street and 11th Avenue at about noon and remained in the area for about five hours, authorities confirmed. Details about the incident that caused police to swarm the area with armored vehicles were not immediately available.

The Bethlehem police public information officer, Capt. Nicholas Lechman, told lehighvalleylive.com that no injuries were reported at the scene.

At this time, there is no immediate danger to the public, Lechman added late Wednesday afternoon.

As of 5 p.m. on Wednesday, the neighborhoods along 11th Avenue, between Spring Street and Lehigh Street were closed to traffic, police said.

The investigation by the Bethlehem Police Department is ongoing.

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.
A 31-year-old man was taken into custody following an hours-long standoff that lasted well into Wednesday evening in West Bethlehem, city police said.

Brian George Lichtenwalner, 31, whose most recent address is listed in Bethlehem, had multiple warrants for his arrest, city police said. Court records indicate they include bench warrants out of Monroe County for failure to appear on charges relating to disarming a law enforcement officer, as well as drug possession offenses inside a prison.

Additionally, city police said Lichtenwalner is wanted on multiple driving under the influence violations.

Shortly after 10 a.m. Wednesday, investigators were tipped off Lichtenwalner was inside a home in the 200 block of 11th Avenue. By late morning, law enforcement had a heavy presence in the area of 11th Avenue at Spring Street.

Officers urged Lichtenwalner to exit the residence for hours, city police said. He continued to hide and made no attempt to speak with officers or vacate the residence, according to police.

The Bethlehem Police Departments Emergency Response Team eventually obtained a search warrant for the home and raided it, police said. They found Lichtenwalner hiding in a closet on the third floor.

Lichtenwalner resisted being taken into custody before finally arrested just before 7 p.m. Wednesday, city police said.

Lichtenwalner was taken to Lehigh County Jail, pending extradition by Monroe County on the arrest warrants.

Lichtenwalner also Wednesday was scheduled to appear before Monroe County Judge Jennifer Harlacher Sibum in the drug case. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor drug possession, according to court records.

Court records show Lichtenwalner still awaits trial in the December 2021 case of disarming an officer in Stroud Township, Monroe County. He has been free since posting $10,000 bail in that case, court records state.

Additional charges are expected to be filed in relation to Wednesdays standoff in Bethlehem, city police said. As of Thursday morning, those charges were yet to be filed.

Attorney Brett J. Riegel, listed in court records as representing Lichtenwalner, could not immediately be reached for comment Thursday morning.

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Easton City Council refused to vote on a proposed ordinance that wouldve demanded the United States call for a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian-aligned terrorist group Hamas on Wednesday.

The ceasefire declaration was proposed by Councilwoman Taiba Sultana in an effort to stand up for human rights and ensure peace, she told council.

We are not talking about protecting Hamas. We are talking about protecting civilians. We are talking about 2,300 children killed in 18 days. Were talking about 128 children per day, Sultana said.

The proposed declaration failed to make it to the floor for consideration following a 1-5 vote by council members, some of whom described the measure as one-sided. Mayor Sal Panto Jr. proposed removing the resolution and criticized it for not mentioning Hamas by name and misrepresenting facts.

During the meeting, he waved a separate resolution, an alternative to Sultanas hed drawn up as a backup plan if Sultana refused to withdraw her proposal, he said.

I have no doubt that the U.S. government is working behind the scenes to stop the war from happening, Panto said.

Some residents didnt appear consoled by the mayors words, and the debate over what to do about the hot-button resolution continued for more than an hour.

Both resolutions could appear before the city again if theyre approved by a special ad-hoc committee to massage the language, city officials later said.

Eastons demand for a ceasefire would be purely symbolic. The city does possess the authority to intervene in foreign diplomatic affairs. However, if the resolutions passed, Easton would become the second U.S. city to approve such a resolution.

A city council in Richmond, California, was the first to pass a resolution affirming its support against the ongoing war between the state of Israel and Palestine on Oct. 23.

The resolution has been criticized for being one-sided in favor of Palestine by Pro-Israel and Zionist groups that support the war.

Hamas militants surprised the world on Oct. 7 when the group stormed from the blockaded Gaza Strip amid a planned missile bombardment into as many as 22 nearby Israeli towns, killing dozens and abducting others in an unprecedented attack during a major Jewish holiday, according to reports by the Associated Press.

Since the initial bombardment, official sources report more than 7,000 Palestinians, including civilians, have been killed by Israels military in retaliation. More than half of the dead are children, according to AP reports.

Israels death toll was last counted at 1,300, as of Oct. 26.

On Oct. 24, UNICEF, the humanitarian and aid branch of the United Nations, demanded an immediate ceasefire, declaring the results of the 20-day battle as a growing stain on our collective conscience.

Watch the full Easton City Council meeting here.

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UPDATE: False active-shooter call at Allen HS investigated: We will make sure person is accountable

A heavy police presence drew attention to William Allen High School Thursday morning in the middle of a school day in the heart of Allentown.

Allentown School District and city police said in separate statements around midday that an anonymous 911 call about an active shooter was placed.

Police searched the entire school facility and found, no shooter, no injuries and no threat. A lockdown that went into effect about 10:20 a.m. was lifted, the district said. A spokesperson for the Lehigh County District Attorneys Office said the call appears to be a hoax.

Police were seen leaving the area of the school by 11 a.m. Several ambulances that were also parked outside the main building departed around the same time.

Allentown police ask anyone with information related to the ongoing investigation to call detectives at 610-437-7721 or the police desk at 610-437-7753 ext. 1. Anonymous tips can be texted via the Tip411 App available on the Allentown Police Facebook page or the department website.

Police gather outside William Allen High School in Allentown on the morning of Oct. 26, 2023, during a lockdown after a caller reported an active shooter.Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor

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Hackettstown police are investigating three recent thefts of catalytic converters from parked vehicles.

The incidents spanned the overnight hours from this past Friday night to Tuesday morning. Catalytic converters were stolen off cars parked along Church, East Prospect, and Madison streets.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau has been tracking the surge in catalytic converter thefts, reporting an estimated ten-fold increase in thefts since 2018, with more than 14,000 reported being swiped in 2020  the most recent data available.

Catalytic converters resemble small mufflers along an exhaust system and are designed to convert environmentally-hazardous exhaust emitted by the engine and convert them into less harmful gasses. To do this, they use platinum, palladium, or rhodium.

The values of these precious metals have skyrocketed since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the insurance crime bureau says.

As of Thursday, rhodium sits at $3,750 per ounce; palladium at $901 per ounce; and platinum at $901 per ounce, according to kitco.com.

The Hackettstown Police Department offers these tips to help keep vehicles safe:

Park vehicles inside a garage or secure them in a side yard.

If parked outside, leave exterior lights on or install motion detector lights.

Install additional sensors to convertors that set off a vehicles alarm when thieves attempt to steal them.

Ask repair shops to tack weld nuts and bolts. This helps prevent most thieves from easily unbolting assemblies.

Paint and/or engrave converters with the vehicles VIN information.

Residents are being advised to contact police if they see anything suspicious. Anyone with information about the most recent theft case can call the Hackettstown Police Department at 908-852-3300 or TEXT-A-TIP: Text TIP HACKPD followed by a message to 888-777.

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One in ten Laois people are not Irish citizens with the biggest group of this from Poland, according to the latest round of figures from Census 2022.

The Central Statistics Office has published key findings for Laois from its analysis of Census 2022 on diversity, migration, ethnicity, Irish Travellers and religion in the Republic.

The CSO reports that Laois non-Irish citizens accounted for 10% or 9,132 of the countys population 91,877. Among the non-Irish residents, the largest group were Polish citizens (2,298 people) followed by UK citizens (1,159), Lithuanian (712) and Romanian (569).

The CSO found that 25% of the non-Irish citizens in Laois were Polish which is one of the highest county rates in Ireland. However, the number of Poles in Laois has fallen since the last Census in 2016 when there were 2,721 Polish nationals living in Laois.

The number of foreign nationals living in Laois is likely to have risen significantly since Census night on April 2022 due mainly to the Ukraine war. Figures show that there were just over 200 Ukrainians living in Laois on that date. Since then the number has climbed beyond 1,000 in the county.

Nationally there were over 631,000 non-Irish citizens, which was 12% of the population. The number of dual-Irish citizens, which is when you are a citizen of two countries at the same time, in the county increased from 1,376 in 2016 to 2,527 in 2022.

The largest dual-Irish citizenships included Irish-Polish (450 people), Irish-UK (408) and Irish-Nigerian (241). There were more than 170,500 dual-Irish residents in Ireland in Census 2022.

As for immigration, there were 2,686 people living in Laois in April 2022 who had moved to the county in the year before the census. Well over half of this figure included 1,932 people who had moved from elsewhere within Ireland, and 754 people from outside the State. A further 2,440 people had moved within the county in the year before the Census.

The figures also covered the county's ethnic groups and background. The CSO has found that more than 72,100 people living in Laois in April 2022 had a White Irish ethnic group or background.

A further 8,384 people identified as any other white. There were 1,248 people whose ethnic group/background was Asian or Asian Irish - Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi and 1,774 people with a Black or Black Irish  African ethnic group/background.

The report also examined the presence of Irish Travellers in Laois. It shows that there were 812 Travellers in Laois in Census 2022, compared with 780 in 2016 (+4%). This included 416 females and 396 males. There were 32,949 Travellers in Ireland, compared with 30,987 in 2016 (+6%). This included 16,777 females and 16,172 males.

As for religion, Census 2022 revealed that more than 68,600 people in the county were Catholic (75%). This was down from 83% in Census 2016. Nationally, 69% stated they were Catholic, compared to 78% in 2016. The other most common religions in Laois included Church of Ireland (with 3,287 people), Orthodox (1,739) and Islam (1,462).

There were more than 8,900 people who stated they did not have a religion, which was up from almost 4,800 in Census 2016, up 88%. They made up 10% of the countys population, compared with 6% in 2016.

Brendan Murphy, Statistician in the Census Division, commenting on the national results overall.

Profile 5 provides detailed information on the range of citizenships among the Irish population, including breakdowns by age and sex as well as by county and town. It shows the recent immigration to Ireland and migration within Ireland. The number of people that moved to Ireland in the year to Census night 03 April 2022 rose by 9% to more than 89,500 people compared with the same period in Census 2016.

"This wide-ranging profile also considers the various ethnic backgrounds of our population, including details on the age, sex, and citizenship of different groups. It looks at our Traveller population in 2022, including breakdowns by sex and household type. It also details the religious composition of the Irish population in April 2022, he said. MORE BELOW GRAPHIC.

EXPLAINER FROM THE CSO

Profile 5 also shows that more than 750,000 people spoke a language other than English or Irish at home, with the most commonly spoken languages being Polish, Romanian, French, Spanish and Portuguese.

The census collects data on people who have come to live in the State in the year leading up to the census which gives a breakdown of patterns of migration. There was a 9% increase in the number of people moving to Ireland in the year to Census night (03 April 2022), to more than 89,500 people compared with the same period leading up to Census 2016. One in four of the people moving to Ireland were Irish citizens.

The question on ethnic group/background was updated for Census 2022 with new categories added including Roma, Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi, and Arab. The change to the question means that some categories are not directly comparable with the previous census results. The relationship between ethnic group/background and country of citizenship gives further insight into the diversity of the population. The most common country of citizenship of the Roma population living here was Ireland (28%), followed by Romania (22%), Italy (10%), and Poland (9%).

The Irish Traveller population rose by 6% to almost 33,000 people. The average age of Irish Travellers was 27 years compared with an average age of 39 for all people living in Ireland. Among the population overall, 15% were aged 65 years or over compared with just 5% of Irish Travellers.

The number of people with no religion living in Ireland grew to more than 736,000 or 14% of the population. This was up 63% since Census 2016. There were also large increases in the number of people whose religion was Orthodox (up 65% to 100,165), Islam (up 32% to 81,930), and Hindu (up 141% to 33,043).

Diversity, Migration, Ethnicity, Irish Travellers, and Religion  Some Highlights Broken down by Theme

Citizenship

Census 2022 included a question asking What is your country of citizenship?. This is used to collect data on the number of people with Irish or non-Irish citizenship, or dual citizenship (both Irish and non-Irish). In previous censuses the question asked was What is your nationality?

There were almost 632,000 non-Irish citizens living in Ireland for Census 2022, which was 12% of the population. This compares with 11% of the population in Census 2016. Almost 313,000, or nearly half, were from other European Union (EU) countries, an increase of 2% since 2016. UK citizens made up 13% of the non-Irish population (83,347 people). There were just over 100,000 citizens of Asian countries living here, which was 16% of the non-Irish population. More than 25,000 were citizens from non-EU European countries, up 131% since 2016. This growth was largely driven by the crisis following the invasion of Ukraine.

Just over one in five people living in Dublin City (21%) were non-Irish citizens while 18% of Galway City residents and 17% of those in Fingal were non-Irish. UK citizens made up 36% of the non-Irish population in Donegal but just 6% of that in Dublin City.

Ballyhaunis in Mayo was the town with the highest proportion of non-Irish residents at 37%. Other towns with a large share of non-Irish citizens included the Longford towns of Ballymahon (33%) and Edgeworthstown (31%).

While the average ages of both Irish and non-Irish citizens have risen in recent censuses, non-Irish citizens were still on average younger than Irish citizens. Non-Irish citizens had an average age of 36 years compared with more than 39 years for Irish citizens. However, UK and German citizens were both older on average, at almost 50 years and 42 years respectively. Ukrainian citizens had an average age of 25 years. The number of Brazilians living in Ireland was 27,338 and nearly 80% were aged between 23 and 43 years compared with just 25% of Irish citizens.

More than 750,000 people spoke a language other than English or Irish at home. The majority of these could speak English either very well (57%) or well (26%) while 11% reported that they could not speak English well and 2% did not speak it at all.

Immigration

The census collects data on people who came to live in Ireland in the year leading up to the census. This gives a breakdown of immigration patterns and characteristics of the people who arrived.

Just over 89,500 people moved to Ireland in the year before Census 2022. This was a 9% increase on the numbers who moved in the year before Census 2016. Almost one in four of those who moved to Ireland in the 12 months before Census 2022 were Irish citizens. Of these, almost 8,400 had moved from the UK while more than 2,500 came from Australia.

Among the non-Irish citizens who came to Ireland in the year to April 2022, nearly 10,000 came from India and almost 5,200 came from Brazil. Of the top 10 countries from which people moved to Ireland, five were EU members  Spain, Romania, France, Italy, and Poland.

There were 18,566 people present in the State on Census night who indicated that their country of citizenship was Ukraine. Many of these people indicated that their country of usual residence was not Ireland, so they are not included in the main figures on country of citizenship which are based on people who were usually resident in Ireland at the time of the census.

Ethnic Group/Background

The question on ethnic group/background was updated for Census 2022 to include the new categories of Roma, Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi, and Arab.

There were almost 3.9 million people who identified their ethnic group/background as White-Irish in Census 2022. Almost 33,000 were White-Irish Travellers while more than 502,000 were of Any Other White background.

Looking at the new categories, there were 94,434 people with an Indian/Pakistani/Bangladeshi ethnic group or background. There were 20,115 people who indicated an Arab ethnic group/background and 16,059 people who identified as Roma.

The were 67,546 people with Black or Black-Irish  African ethnic group or background, which is up 17% on the 2016 figure. Nearly 8,700 people had a Black or Black-Irish  Any other Black ethnic group or background, up 28%.

There were 26,828 people with Asian or Asian Irish  Chinese ethnic group or background, which was 38% higher than in 2016.

Irish Travellers

The Irish Traveller population grew by 6% to almost 33,000 in Census 2022. This meant that six out of every 1,000 people in the State were Irish Travellers. Most counties saw an increase in their Traveller population, with the largest being in Offaly (up 30% to 1,174), Fingal (up 17% to 1,545), Tipperary (up 17% to 1,434), and Cork (up 11% to 2,376). However, the number of Travellers in some counties fell between 2016 and 2022, including Longford (down 13% to 913) and South Dublin (down 12% to 1,943).

The average age of Irish Travellers was 27 years compared with an average age of 39 for all people living in Ireland. Children under the age of 15 made up 20% of the total population but 36% of Irish Travellers. Among the population overall, 15% were aged 65 years and over compared with just 5% of Irish Travellers.

Looking at health status, 67% of Irish Travellers stated that their health status was good or very good, compared with 83% of the total population, while 4% stated they had bad or very bad health, compared with 2% of the total population.

Travellers were more likely to report experiencing at least one long-lasting condition or difficulty to any extent, at 26%, compared with 22% of the total usual resident and present population. Among Traveller children under the age of 15 years, 7% reported experiencing at least one long-lasting condition or difficulty to a great extent, compared with 4% of all children.

Travellers were more likely to be daily smokers at 16% compared with 9% of the total population.

Religion

More than 3.5 million people, or 69% of the population, reported their religion was Roman Catholic. The second largest religious grouping was Church of Ireland or England, Anglican and Episcopalian with more than 124,700 people. The number of people who stated they had no religion increased to more than 736,000, or 14% of the population. This was up 63% since Census 2016. There were also large increases in the number of people whose religion was Orthodox (up 65% to over 100,000), Islam (up 32% to almost 82,000), and Hindu (up 141% to just over 33,000).

Among pre-school aged children (0 to 4 years), 65% were Roman Catholic while 16% had no religion. Of those aged 5 to 9 years, 72% were Roman Catholic with 11% having no religion. People aged 25 to 29 years were less likely to be Roman Catholic (53%) than other age groups. They were also the age group with the highest proportion of people with no religion (26%).

Most of the statistics in this publication are reported on a usually resident and present basis and, unless stated otherwise, exclude visitors and people absent abroad on the night of the census.

Profile 5 is the fifth in a series of eight themed reports on Census 2022.
A young electric scooter rider in Laois has been knocked down by a vehicle and taken to hospital.

A collision took place on a pedestrian crossing on the Dublin Road in Portlaoise, beside St Peter & Paul's Church, this Thursday morning, October 26 at about 9am.

A girl aged 16 who was riding a scooter was hit by a car, Gardai have confirmed to the Leinster Express / Laois Live.

Her injuries are understood to be not life-threatening. The teenager has been taken by ambulance to Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise.

Laois Gardai have launched an investigation into the collision, and are appealing for any witnesses to contact Portlaoise Garda Station.

E-scooters are outside the law, as there is no regulation yet in place on them.

Earlier this week, county councillors warned of dangers involving e-scooters and indeed incorrect pedestrian crossing usage by all road users including drivers, at the Portlaoise Municipal District and Portarlington Graiguecullen Municipal District meetings.

Cllr Aidan Mullins calls for warning signs on paths in Portarlington to remind the riders not to go on footpaths. Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald and Cllr Willie Aird report that neither cars nor pedestrians or e-scooters are stopping at pedestrian crossings.

However legislation that clears the way for rules on the use of e-scooters on public roads has been signed into law by President Higgins.

The new law, which is aimed at modernising Irelands regulatory system for road traffic, also clarifies the legal position of e-bikes.

The Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 introduces a new class of vehicle called Personal Powered Transporters (PPTs).

The Department of Transport says that regulations can now be commenced to classify e-scooters as PPTs, allowing the minister to specify appropriate power, speed and weight values, along with other technical and usage requirements for e-scooters.

The department points out, however, that e-scooters will remain illegal on public roads until the regulations are in place, expected to happen before the end of 2023.
A Laois priest who has dedicated his whole lifetime to helping the poor in India and in Africa, returned home to his family for a special personal celebration to mark the 50th year since his ordination.

Fr Sean Murphy, 89, from Rath, Ballybrittas has the honour of being the only priest ever to be ordained in the church of the Sacred Heart in Rath, his local church.

It was there that he and his four surviving siblings, Rose, Mary, Mick and Jim, with their families and friends all gathered again for a celebration of Mass by Fr Murphy, on Saturday, October 14, to mark his Golden Jubilee.

Fr Murphy prayed for wartorn countries in the world. He was joined on the altar by some of his lifelong friends in the priesthood who travelled from Limerick to be with him on the special day; including Fr Val Collier, Fr Michael O'Connell and Fr Tony McEvoy.

The celebration was rounded off with dinner in the Killeshin Hotel.

Fr Murphy who was one of 12 children of Michael and Theresa Murphy was ordained in Rath church by Bishop Dr Lennon in April, 1973.

After his education in Rath NS and CBS in Monasterevin, he had spent a couple of years working in the civil service in Dublin.

Then he joined the Salesian Brothers and headed off on the missions to India for six years. On his return he went to St Patrick's College to study theology and following his ordination, departed for Africa.

For the next 50 years, he served in Swasiland - now Eswatini, in Lesotho and then Johannesburg whaere at 89 he still actively works.

Fr Murphy works in the townships of the city, where many people live in severe poverty in shacks, and the crime rate is very high.

His work is community focused, based in a technical school whilst also visiting people in their homes, and celebrating Mass as often as he can.

Such is the regard he is held there that the community held a little party for him before he left for his trip back to Ireland.

Not one for retiring, he intends to return and carry on his life's mission.

Fr Sean Murphy with his siblings at his Jubilee Mass in Rath church, Rose, Jim, Mick and Mary.

His niece Vanessa described to the Leinster Express just how beloved Fr Murphy is by his family, most of whom still live in Laois, including Ballybrittas and Portarlington.

He is a very humble man, he is so kind and grateful.

He said that he left Ireland 60 years ago but when he comes home he still has an amazing family surrounding him. He said he had never been so honoured.

All of his family, his nieces and nephews, we all feel the same, there is something really special about him. We are so proud of him all our lives.

Everyone was very honoured to have him there, that he came over all this way for the occasion.

He is just the closest thing to perfection. He would restore your faith in humanity. He has devoted his life to helping people and educating people, Vanessa said.

Being able to celebrate his jubilee together is a moment that the family are grateful for.

The event was just a perfect day. It was the nicest Mass I've ever been to, his niece Vanessa said.
Naas artist Greg Hallahan and local historian Mario Corrigan will present a special art exhibition, Nine Lives, at the old courthouse building in Kildare town on October 27 at 7:30 pm, for one night only.

This exhibition draws its inspiration from Mario Corrigan's book of the same title and features the artistic creations of Greg Hallahan. Nine Lives introduces a captivating concept, reimagining the heroic figures of the Rathbride Flying Column as 'Spirit Warriors.' Through Greg's artwork, these heroes are portrayed in a manner that aims to empower and inspire the audience, offering a fresh perspective on their true appearances.

The exhibition provides a profound historical journey into the flying column and their pivotal role in the Irish Civil War. Mario Corrigan will provide a contextual talk, shedding light on the historical significance of these individuals and the dark period of Irish history in which they lived.

Read more Kildare news

Part of the exhibition is dedicated to remembering seven men who met their fate at Curragh Camp - Patrick Bagnall, Patrick Mangan, Joseph Jackie Johnston, Bryan Moore, Patrick Nolan, Stephen White, and James OConnor. It also pays tribute to Thomas Behan, who tragically lost his life while evading arrest, and Annie Moore, the fiancee and sister of two of these men. They are commemorated in this powerful display, reimagining them as resilient Celtic warriors and emphasizing their courage and sacrifices during this turbulent historical period.

The project also honours each member of the group collectively, acknowledging their unwavering spirit as a source of strength and reverence. Greg's choice of using humble bread trays as a medium for the exhibition is a symbolic link between the past and the present, paying tribute to the religious fervor of these heroes. They are portrayed as passionate believers, guided by their unshakable faith and hope above all else.

For more information, you can visit www.greghallahan00@gmail.com or follow on Instagram @greg_hallahan_art.
A Dublin electrician has said adults and children from the community are vital to transforming his home into a House of Horrors every year.

For years, Ken Carraher has filled his Killiney home with ghosts, ghouls and monsters for the Halloween period in aid of charity.

But he is not a fan of being frightened himself.

Mr Carraher said: I like doing this, but scary movies or anything else  no. Never watch scary movies  petrified. I watched one once and that was it.

The dark  petrified of it, no, thats not me. When Im going for a walk, say, at night-time near the estate, it would be a minimum of two torches in the dark, minimum. And I wouldnt even do it on my own.

He said he has been woken in the middle of the night by a sound downstairs, only to realise it was crawling arm and leg props he had forgotten to switch off.

That can happen, the electrician added.

Mr Carraher said that when he began decorating the house 22 years ago, he had just two models and one light, and now has a couple of thousand props in total.

So what people see is about 20-30% of what we have.

He added: We always start the second last weekend in September, so on Friday September 22 this year we started and its non-stop since then.

Ill be on four to five weeks annual leave to kit it out, put it on, take it down, and my friend John, hell be on two weeks annual leave to give me a hand.

Mr Carraher said it gets very good reactions from neighbours.

He added: Most people are behind us, theyre brilliant. Especially for sweets and all, we put out an appeal every year for sweets and the neighbours just come with bags and bags of sweets which is brilliant.

Its adults and children, it is a community thing, you couldnt do this on your own, you need the support of the community.

The children, teenagers and that, theyll be helping to say, scare people, and the adults kind of check everythings OK, hand out sweets.

Mr Carrahers terrifying transformation now raises funds for a charity that helps people living with the rare skin condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB), also known as butterfly skin.

The funds go to Debra Ireland, which helps around 300 people living with the painful disease that causes skin to blister at the slightest touch.

Kens Halloween House of Horrors is open on October 28, 29 and 30 from 4pm-8pm and on Halloween from 4pm-9pm.
Bela Doyle, one of the longest running and most loved characters on the show, has bid farewell to Carrigstown, with actor Jim Bartley announcing his retirement after almost 34 years.

Bartley joined the cast in 1990 and has been a staple character on the show ever since.

For a year before the character actually arrived on screen, Bela Doyle had a reputation as Carrigstowns Casanova, despite being married to Rita and being father to their six children Helen, Yvonne, Jimmy, Darren, Suzanne and Louise.

Bela had a string of other dalliances, with countless ladies falling under his spell over the years.

This led to many tangled affairs, including a secret love child with Barry O'Hanlon's girlfriend, Linda, but the baby tragically passed away.

As no one knew that he was the father, he couldnt openly grieve.

A love triangle with Pauline, Leo Dowlings love interest and eventual wife, also followed.

When Pauline chose Leo and married him, Bela ended up being Leo's best man.

All love was not lost for Bela on their big day, however, as he had a dalliance with Paulines bridesmaid, Nicola!

Tragedy struck many times with death, drama and heartbreak impacting Bela and his family over the years, with the death of his beloved daughter, Helen, being the worst.

He had volatile relationships with his wife, family and his lovers, but he was always a faithful friend.

His most enduring friendship was with Charlie Kelly, an unlikely pair, but they were joined at the hip.

In the ultimate act of friendship, Charlie invited Bela to move in with him when Bela's kids had deserted him, and he had nowhere else to go.

Bela, Charlie and Cass Cassidy, the three musketeers, lived together for many years. As a final act of loyalty, Charlie left Bela his house.

Bela, in turn, decided to pass on the kindness to Cass.

In a surprising twist, and in an effort to avoid a big tax bill, Bela decided to marry Cass. However, this led to him being an accidental bigamist, when Olwyn, Cass wife, turned up and revealed that they had never divorced!

Jim commented; After over 60 years of association with RTE, firstly on Tolka Row, aged 18, and over 30 years spent on Fair City I have a tinge of sadness bidding this farewell. The time has come to focus on my health. Id like to wish the whole team the very best of luck. To the cast and crew, in particular those who I have spent years working with, it was a joy going to work each day. My heritage goes back through the show, and all the way back to Tolka Row, RTEs first television soap opera, with many lifelong friendships and a lot of special memories created over the years.

Fair Citys Executive Producer, Brigie de Courcy, commented; Everyone at Fair City is sad to see Jim Bartley leave. He was already an iconic figure in Irish soap when he joined us, and his unforgettable performance as Bela Doyle has been a central part of Fair City for over 30 years. As the last remaining member of the Doyle clan, his exit marks a huge shift for Carrigstown. His presence will long be felt, both as a performer and as a kind and good-humoured mentor to many younger cast members through the years. I wish him the very best in his retirement.
The 2023 Allingham Festival will bring bestselling authors, talented performers and national thought leaders to Ballyshannon on 8-12 November.

Expanded to a five-day schedule, the 2023 Festival will take place in the Abbey Arts Centre and nearby venues.

The opening night on Wednesday, November 8, will highlight childrens issues and the historical injustice of servitude and transportation, contrasted with todays determination to provide safety, health care and education for all children in Ireland.

The Emerson Lecture  historian Anthony Begley reflecting on the fates of 19 orphan girls who were shipped from Ballyshannon to Australia under the Earl Grey Scheme in 1848, and The Allingham Lecture  Ombudsman for Children Dr Niall Muldoon, speaking on Childrens Rights in Ireland  from the Workhouse to the Family Hub.

Other 2023 Allingham Festival highlights will include:

Irish soprano Regina Nathan, in a concert ranging from classical arias to the songs of Leonard Cohen and Tom Waits.



Pictured: Soprano Regina Nathan

Best-selling domestic-noir author Liz Nugent (Strange Sally Diamond, Unravelling Oliver), in conversation with journalist and mystery novelist Sinead Crowley (The Belladonna Maze, Are You Watching Me?).

Popular childrens author Shane Hegarty, reading from his Boot series, The Shop of Impossible Ice Creams, and his new stories in Ballyshannon-area schools.

Sunday Miscellany favourite Olive Travers, in a revised, expanded performance of Nets of Wonder: Stories on the Wall, combines her evocative radio scripts with artwork by Barry Britton and music by Eamon Travers.

An exhibition of Barry Brittons artwork in the Abbey Arts Centre will foreshadow the performance, and the new Nets of Wonder scripts, artwork and music are being published as a book by Beehive Press.

A History Hedge School with History Ireland editor Tommy Graham and panellists John Gibney, Michael Kennedy and Zoe Reid.

Walking with Memory  a one-man show featuring veteran actor and adjudicator Walker Ewart.

Ebb and Flow  Marine scientist and champion surfer Easkey Britton in conversation with author and poet Denise Blake.

Margaret  a powerful one-act play based on the life of Margaret Thatcher, performed by Rachel OConnor.

A choral concert, the traditional Sunday evening finale of the Allingham Festival, in St Annes Church, the parish church of William Allingham.

Films at the Festival:

The Deepest Breath  a big-screen showing of the award-winning Netflix documentary on freediving, including a Q&A with producer Jamie Lee Dalton.

Obituary  a screening of the gripping television series filmed in Ballyshannon, followed by a Q&A session with Executive Producer Paddy Hayes, Location Manager Mai Kelly and key production personnel.

Reel Border Shorts  four short documentary films highlighting the memories and consequences of The Troubles.

Drumhome Land Of Saints and High Kings  a film by Peter Mullaney.

Book Launches:

Ebb and Flo  Easkey Britto

Finding Fairy Beliefs and Mysteries in Donegal  Keith Corcoran

From Carn to Cluain Barron  poetry and family history by Roisin Lee

Nets of Wonder  Olive Travers, Barry Britton, Eamonn Travers

Workshops:

Studio Photography, with Mark Fearon

Childrens Art Workshop, with Christine Fox

Little Top Stars  Circus skills for children

Open Mic Events:

Open Mic with Tony Liston  McIntyres Bar

Come One, Come All  Poetry Readings  Dicey Reillys Pub

Gather Again  Readings and the PJ Drummond Recitation Competition, led by Allingham

Committee Chair Conor Carney

Awards Ceremonies

Primary Schools Writing Awards

Secondary Schools Flash Fiction Results

Adult Poetry and Flash Fiction Awards, introducing the new Francis Harvey Award for

Poetry  Kate Newmann and Alan McMonagle, Judges

The 2023 Allingham Festival will also host a regional meeting of the WORD organisation, an association of professional and aspiring writers. Free event and all writers are invited to attend.

The 2023 Allingham Festival programme, with updated information and booking links, is posted online at www.allinghamfestival.com. Copies of the Festival programme are available in shops throughout Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo. Pre-booking is recommended.

The Allingham Arts Association acknowledges the financial assistance of the Donegal County Council, the Sponsoring Partners of the Festival, and the merchants of Ballyshannon.
Haven Life's Term Life Insurance Products Again Awarded Multiple Best-in-Class Recognitions in Recent Months





NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Haven Life , a leading digital direct-to-consumer life insurance agency backed and wholly owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company ( MassMutual ), is thrilled to announce a host of new best-in-class recognitions from some of the country's most trusted consumer brand rankings and well-established industry organizations including Buy Side from WSJ , CBS News , CBS Moneywatch [JM1] , Forbes Advisor , LIDMA , Money and Nerdwallet . Haven Life offers two term life insurance products, Haven Term (with up to $3M in coverage) and Haven Simple (with up to $1M in coverage) ? visit Haven Life's website for more details on the difference in the two products.

Buy Side from WSJ , The Wall Street Journal's commerce site, named Haven Life the "Best No-Exam" option for term life insurance ? reaffirming recognition on Buy Side's inaugural list last November ? due to the convenience of Haven Simple's no-exam option and its higher-than-typical coverage maximum, and the fact that Haven Life is a subsidiary of MassMutual. Buy Side selected insurers based on available policy options, coverage limits, age restrictions, insurance riders, customer satisfaction, pricing, and policy purchasing options.

, The Wall Street Journal's commerce site, named Haven Life the option for term life insurance ? reaffirming recognition on Buy Side's inaugural list last ? due to the convenience of Haven Simple's no-exam option and its higher-than-typical coverage maximum, and the fact that Haven Life is a subsidiary of MassMutual. Buy Side selected insurers based on available policy options, coverage limits, age restrictions, insurance riders, customer satisfaction, pricing, and policy purchasing options. CBS News awarded Haven Life "Best for Cost" on its list of best term life after analyzing sample pricing from several competitors to select the winner. A 33-year old female from Texas seeking $500,000 in coverage for a 20-year term would pay only $21.67 per month with a Haven Term policy. CBS News also mentioned Haven Life's excellent customer reviews and ratings.

awarded Haven Life on its list of best term life after analyzing sample pricing from several competitors to select the winner. A 33-year old female from seeking in coverage for a 20-year term would pay only per month with a Haven Term policy. CBS News also mentioned Haven Life's excellent customer reviews and ratings. CBS Moneywatch named Haven Life "Best for Quick Approval" highlighting its Haven Simple offering, a fully digital application process that does not require a medical exam. CBS Moneywatch notes you can apply, get approved, and start coverage over lunch.

named Haven Life highlighting its Haven Simple offering, a fully digital application process that does not require a medical exam. CBS Moneywatch notes you can apply, get approved, and start coverage over lunch. Forbes Advisor recognized Haven Life on its list of "Best Term Life Insurance for 2023," citing the easy online application, full suite of benefits and immediate decision on eligibility. Forbes Advisor's methodology utilizes data on cost, guaranteed renewability, and a rider (think: bonus feature), titled Haven Life Plus, which offers access to additional benefits to policyholders..

recognized Haven Life on its list of citing the easy online application, full suite of benefits and immediate decision on eligibility. Forbes Advisor's methodology utilizes data on cost, guaranteed renewability, and a rider (think: bonus feature), titled Haven Life Plus, which offers access to additional benefits to policyholders.. LIDMA , the Life Insurance Direct Marketing Association, awarded Haven Life the LIDMA Innovation Award given to the company that demonstrates its ability to make the daunting process of purchasing life insurance more accessible for Americans. Haven Life was selected by the LIDMA Board of Directors based on factors including improvements to the buying experience and building end-to-end digital products that serve as a long-term solution for the industry.

, the Life Insurance Direct Marketing Association, awarded Haven Life the given to the company that demonstrates its ability to make the daunting process of purchasing life insurance more accessible for Americans. Haven Life was selected by the LIDMA Board of Directors based on factors including improvements to the buying experience and building end-to-end digital products that serve as a long-term solution for the industry. Money announced Haven Life as the "Best Term Life Insurance" this month due to its up to $3 million coverage maximum and additional benefits such as online will and estate planning services with Haven Life Plus. Money's ranking methodology evaluated factors including customer experience and product offerings, customer satisfaction ratings, and the simplicity of the underwriting process.

announced Haven Life as the this month due to its up to coverage maximum and additional benefits such as online will and estate planning services with Haven Life Plus. Money's ranking methodology evaluated factors including customer experience and product offerings, customer satisfaction ratings, and the simplicity of the underwriting process. Nerdwallet chose Haven Life as "Best Online Buying Experience" in October for its user-friendly website and instant coverage options, including the quick, entirely online application and accelerated underwriting process.

"When Haven Life launched in 2015, our mission was straightforward: make life insurance simpler, more affordable and more accessible for every U.S. household," said Mitch Ocampo, Head of Haven Life. "We are honored to be recognized for our innovative approach to helping our customers secure their financial futures and gain peace of mind by providing their families and loved ones with financial security."

These awards follow a spate of recognitions for Haven Life earlier this year including Bankrate's "Best Life Insurance for People Over 50," the Real Simple Smart Money Awards , and Investopedia . Haven Life's convenient online approach, simple application process, high coverage limits and option to forgo a medical exam with Haven Simple policies are consistent differentiators in a crowded and often complicated landscape.

For individuals interested in purchasing life insurance, they can visit www.havenlife.com/quote-tool . There, they can get a quote and proceed to apply for a Haven Life policy in minutes, often without the need for a medical exam.* For more information about Haven Life products, visit www.havenlife.com .

About Haven Life:

Haven Life Insurance Agency, LLC (Haven Life) is re-thinking how people financially protect the ones they love. Haven Life is committed to delivering exceptional products, delightful purchasing experiences, and meaningful moments of service to the modern life insurance customer.

Haven Term is a Term Life Insurance Policy (ICC21 HAVEN TERM in certain states, including NC; HAVEN TERM CA21 in California) issued by C.M. Life Insurance Company (C.M. Life), Enfield, CT 06082. In NY (DTC-NY), DE (DTC-DE), SD (DTC-SD) and ND (DTC) it is issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), Springfield, MA 01111-0001.

Haven Simple is a Simplified Issue Term Life Insurance Policy (ICC20 HAVEN SIMPLE in certain states, including NC; HAVEN SIMPLE CA20 in California). It is issued by C.M. Life Insurance Company, Enfield, CT 06082.

*Issuing the policy or paying its benefits depends on the applicant's insurability, based on their answers to the health questions in the application, and their truthfulness.[JJ2]

[JM1]Both awards are "CBS Moneywatch" reported on CBS News but we've differentiated them here so we could link to both without confusion.

[JJ2]Are there updated disclosures for 2023?

SOURCE Haven Life

25 october 2023 at 09:00

News published onand distributed by:
Pan-Canadian humanitarian, faith and labour groups to hold media conference: ?Canada must demand a ceasefire now!'





OTTAWA, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- An ad-hoc coalition of over 70 humanitarian, faith, labour, and civil society organizations will hold a media conference on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Thursday, October 26 at 11:00 a.m. EDT. The coalition will call on the Government of Canada to endorse two urgent demands:



Call for an immediate ceasefire of all hostilities in Israel-Palestine

Call for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for the restoration of humanitarian aid and access to the basic necessities of life

An unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe is underway in Gaza. Thousands have already been killed, while bombing continues to intensify. The coalition aims to bring to bear the full weight of the Canadian public on the federal government to demand an immediate ceasefire and prevent the further loss of life in Israel-Palestine.

Date: Thursday, October 26, 2023

Time: 11:00 a.m. EDT

Location: Room 135-B, West Block, Parliament Hill, Ottawa, ON

Speakers:

Dania Majid : Arab Canadian Lawyers Association

: Arab Canadian Lawyers Association Corey Balsam : Independent Jewish Voices - Canada

: Independent Jewish Voices - Canada Celine Furi : Oxfam Quebec

: Oxfam Quebec Eric Hebert-Daly : United Church of Canada

: United Church of Canada Alex Silas: Public Service Alliance of Canada

25 october 2023 at 20:35

News published onand distributed by:
L'ecole AI, Creator of "Machine Teaching" Technology, Raises 3 Million USD in Seed Funding From Sofinnova Partners





L'ecole AI, creator of EO, a "machine teaching" technology that removes the engineering complexity around deep-learning systems for computer vision, announced that it has raised 3 million USD in Seed funding from Sofinnova Partners. The funds will be used to develop the company's proprietary technology, which will be rolled out to medical professionals and researchers, enabling them to create bespoke AI systems to assist in their area of expertise. In addition, the financing will fuel the expansion of the team, accelerate product development and structure business efforts. Also participating in the round are notable business angels including Preston-Werner Ventures, the fund started by co-founder and former CEO of GitHub, Tom Preston-Werner.

"We're building a user interface for AI so anyone can create and benefit from their own personalized AI assistant," said Louis-Alexandre Etezad-Heydari, Co-Founder and President of L'ecole AI, which means "AI school" in French. "We also are creating a system that will open possibilities for secure collaboration between organizations."

Etezad-Heydari co-founded Madbits, a deep-learning image-analysis start-up, with Clement Farabet in 2013. A year after its founding, Madbits was acquired by Twitter, where the two entrepreneurs ran Twitter Cortex, an internal team that built a Deep Learning platform to power recommendation systems, search, ranking and filtering at Twitter.

Kim Nilsson and Jonathan Alexander Brown teamed up with Etezad-Heydari to perfect the AI development framework for computer vision that initially inspired Madbits, and the three founders set off with the goal to make creating computer vision models simple enough for non-engineers.

"L'ecole's technology is designed to democratize machine learning by enabling life science researchers and other non-machine learning experts to utilize tailored computer vision systems, thus accelerating life sciences research," said Edward Kliphuis, Partner at Sofinnova Partners. "The focus on digital medicine is a logical entry point," he noted.

"We're starting with a focus on health care and life sciences because we want to make a positive impact right away," said Jonathan Alexander Brown, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. "With Sofinnova's support, we are confident we have the right skills to partner with researchers and clinicians in these tightly regulated markets."

Farabet, an investor in L'ecole, is an AI pioneer. Currently VP of Research at Google DeepMind, he spent six years as a senior executive at NVIDIA, working on its autonomous vehicles and the company's data science platform. Farabet is also famous in the AI world as one of the creators of Torch, a machine learning framework that provides a simple and flexible interface for building and training deep neural networks.

L'ecole AI counts a number of other AI pioneers among its investors, including Nicolas Pinto, head of Deep Learning at Apple, Clement Delangue, Co-Founder and CEO at Hugging Face.

About the Founders

Jonathan Alexander Brown, Co-Founder and CEO

A mathematician-turned-actuary, Jonathan has crafted statistical models for natural catastrophes (wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.) and introduced innovative risk management and data-analysis strategies at top multinational companies. He has navigated regulated environments throughout his career, always with a keen focus on addressing the needs of key stakeholders.

Louis-Alexandre Etezad-Heydari, Co-Founder and President

Louis-Alexandre is a computer vision pioneer, a successful entrepreneur, and an accomplished artist who dropped out of the Neuroscience PhD program at New York University to found Madbits in 2013 with Clement Farabet. The pair "built visual intelligence technology that automatically understands, organizes and extracts relevant information from raw media," Etezad-Heydari said when Madbits was acquired by Twitter.

Kim Nilsson, Co-Founder and CTO

Kim has more than 20 years' experience as a software engineer. A former senior developer at Opera, he has always displayed the hacker spirit, solving one of the biggest cryptocurrency heists ever in his spare time, an effort the Wall Street Journal described in detail.

About Sofinnova Partners

Sofinnova Partners is a leading European venture capital firm in life sciences, specializing in healthcare and sustainability. Based in Paris, London and Milan, the firm brings together a team of professionals from all over the world with strong scientific, medical, and business expertise. Sofinnova Partners is a hands-on company builder across the entire value chain of life sciences investments, from seed to later-stage. The firm actively partners with ambitious entrepreneurs as a lead or cornerstone investor to develop transformative innovations that have the potential to positively impact our collective future.

Founded in 1972, Sofinnova Partners is a deeply established venture capital firm in Europe, with 50 years of experience backing over 500 companies and creating market leaders around the globe. Today, Sofinnova Partners has over ?2.5 billion under management. For more information, please visit: sofinnovapartners.com

26 october 2023 at 00:05

News published onand distributed by:
iFR and FFR are equally safe to diagnose and treat heart disease according to largest-ever analysis of new real-world, long-term data





October 26, 2023

Safety of Philips' iFR in the guidance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for heart disease demonstrated in late-breaking science at TCT 2023 highlighting patient-level outcomes analysis of 42,000 patients from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry

Previous data demonstrate that iFR delivers consistent patient outcomes, reduces discomfort and offers a more cost-effective and faster diagnostic solution [1,2] compared to FFR

Amsterdam, the Netherlands ? Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the latest results demonstrating the safety of Philips instant wave-free ratio (iFR) in the guidance of PCI.

Philips is committed to clinically validating its innovations in cardiac and cardiovascular care. iFR is an innovative pressure-derived index only offered by Philips that is used to assess coronary blockages during interventional procedures. iFR avoids the use of hyperemic agents, a class of drugs that maximize blood flow but have a significant impact on the patient experience [3].

A longitudinal analysis from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry of more than 42,000 patients undergoing coronary procedures, showed no difference between iFR and fractional flow reserve (FFR) in major adverse cardiac events (MACE) [4]. The analysis, "Long-term Safety of Revascularization Deferral Based on Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio or Fractional Reserve," compares patient outcomes using iFR and FFR in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

"These new findings once again confirm the safety of iFR. We continue to see that iFR-guided treatment offers consistent outcomes, reduces costs, and provides a better patient experience," said Dr. Gotberg, Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden, who presented the results during a late-breaking science session at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) annual meeting in San Francisco. "The data from this new analysis provides additional confidence in the safety of iFR for physicians."

In the previously published analysis of the five-year outcomes of the randomized trial iFR-SWEDEHEART, results found iFR and FFR to be equally safe and effective with respect to risks for MACE. The cumulative MACE risks for each group differentiated by 1.6% (iFR: 21.5%, FFR: 19.9%, HR 1.09 (95% CI: 0.90-1.33 at 5 years). There was no difference in risk for death, heart attack or new revascularization [3].

The results presented today from the SWEDEHEART registry revealed that patients in the iFR group had more risk factors compared with the FFR group but when adjusted for known confounders there was no difference in 5-year MACE between patients who underwent iFR or FFR-guided revascularization (32.2% vs. 31.3%, adjusted HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.93?1.05, p=0.65). Furthermore, the outcome was similar in the individual components of MACE (death, heart attack, new revascularization) as well as in both deferred and treated subgroups.

Patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent

iFR is considered the Gold Standard for hyperemia-free physiologic assessment for measuring pressure in diagnostic and interventional procedures [1,4]. Similar to FFR, clinicians use these tools coupled with angiographic images to assess coronary blockages. However, by avoiding administrating a hyperemic agent, patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent and enables iFR to detect disease processes downstream from the major blood vessels [4].

Only Philips iFR has a Class IA recommendation by the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions and European Society of Cardiology [1,2].

"We are confident in our pursuit of innovation to improve outcomes and ensure patient safety. The data continues to demonstrate the benefits of iFR-guided treatment to reduce costs and improve outcomes," said Chris Landon, General Manager, Philips Image Guided Therapy Devices. "iFR technology is unique to Philips, and we are proud to offer the global gold standard treatment for patients with ischemic heart disease."

For more information on Philips and the iFR data, please visit http://www.philips.com/iFR and follow the #TCT2023 conversation with @PhilipsLiveFrom throughout the event.

[1] Lawton J. et al. 2021 ACC/AHA/SCAI Guideline for Coronary Artery Revascularization. JACC. 2022;79(2):e21-e129.

[2] 2018 ESC/EACTS Guidelines on myocardial revascularization: The task force on myocardial revascularization of the European society of cardiology (ESC) and European association for cardio-thoracic surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2018;00:1-96. Japan guidelines.

[3] Gotberg M, et al. Instantaneous wave-free ratio compared with fractional flow reserve in PCI: A cost-minimization analysis. Int J Cardiol 2021 1;344:54-59.

[4] Gotberg M, Berntorp K, Rylance R, et al. 5 ? Year outcomes of PCI guided by measurement of instantaneous wave-free ratio versus fractional flow reserve. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2022;79(10):965?974.

For further information, please contact:

Joost Maltha

Philips Global Press Office

Tel. : +31 6 10558116

E-mail: [email protected]

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips' patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2022 sales of EUR 17.8 billion and employs approximately 70,700 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter .

Attachments

26 october 2023 at 04:00

News published onand distributed by:
RoboMarkets Integrates Acuity Trading's Advanced AI Technologies to Enhance Client Offerings





LIMASSOL, Cyprus, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- RoboMarkets, a European brokerage company, has announced a strategic partnership with Acuity Trading, renowned for its advanced AI-driven trading technologies. This alliance emphasises RoboMarkets' commitment to offering its retail and professional clients refined, alternative perspectives on the financial market, ensuring they maintain a competitive edge in their trading endeavours.

In its effort to empower its traders with augmented trading experiences, RoboMarkets is poised to integrate Acuity's innovative AI-driven tools, including the Economic Calendar, AnalysisIQ, and AssetIQ. This collaboration enriches the decision-making capabilities of RoboMarkets' traders and underscores the Company's commitment to offering a comprehensive perspective on the financial market.

RoboMarkets' traders will gain access to advanced tools including:

Acuity's AI-Powered Economic Calendar : this tool offers real-time insights. It equips traders to navigate market volatilities and uncertainties with AI-enhanced filtering and vivid indicators, transforming these challenges into actionable trading opportunities.

: this tool offers real-time insights. It equips traders to navigate market volatilities and uncertainties with AI-enhanced filtering and vivid indicators, transforming these challenges into actionable trading opportunities. Acuity's AnalysisIQ : this technology, originating from Signal Centre and acquired by Acuity in 2021, operates under FCA regulation. It provides traders with professional, dependable market research and trade signals, bolstering their trading strategies and decision-making processes.

: this technology, originating from Signal Centre and acquired by Acuity in 2021, operates under FCA regulation. It provides traders with professional, dependable market research and trade signals, bolstering their trading strategies and decision-making processes. AssetIQ: this robust research tool provides traders with a comprehensive, unified view of global market assets, ensuring that the latest and most relevant data is always available to assist them in making informed trading decisions.

RoboMarkets has consistently aimed to continually enhance its offerings and provide clients with innovative tools based on the latest technological breakthroughs. The partnership with Acuity Trading underscores RoboMarkets' commitment to continuously refining its offerings with cutting-edge tools.

As a CySEC-regulated entity, RoboMarkets remains steadfast in prioritising the evolving needs of its traders. With a diverse range of over 3,000 instruments, including US Stocks and ETFs, available for trading and investment, the Company reinforces its dedication to maintaining a leading position in the trading industry by integrating with Acuity Trading's innovative tools.

About RoboMarkets

RoboMarkets is a financial brokerage company operating under CySEC license No. 191/13. RoboMarkets offers investment services in many European countries and provides traders working in financial markets with access to its proprietary platforms. Visit www.robomarkets.com to find out more about the Company's products.

About Acuity Trading

Acuity Trading revolutionised the online trading experience for millions of investors with the introduction of visual news and sentiment tools in 2013. Today, Acuity continues to lead the fintech market with alpha generating alternative data and highly engaging trading tools using the latest in AI research and technology. Acuity's team of academics, scientists, news, and market professionals are dedicated to delivering highly effective data products that bring value to investors of all levels and experience. Flexible delivery options include APIs, MT4/5, plug and play widgets and third-party automation services.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1479513/4356951/RoboMarkets_Logo.jpg

26 october 2023 at 04:00

News published onand distributed by:
LTIMindtree Recognized as a Great Place to Worktm in Denmark for the Second Consecutive Year





LTIMindtree [NSE: LTIM, BSE: 540005], a global technology consulting and digital solutions company, has been recognized as a Great Place to Work-Certifiedtm Company in Denmark for the second year in a row. This certification is based on positive feedback from employees gathered with Great Place to Work's rigorous, data-driven methodology. This recognition confirms that 86% of the employees have a consistently positive experience at LTIMindtree in Denmark, a 6% increase from the previous year.

Areas of strengths for LTIMindtree in Denmark were its high scores on inclusion, fairness, safety, the sense of internal proudness of the work they do and the ways LTIMindtree contribute to the success of its clients and the society as a whole.

Erik Julius Larsen, Executive Vice President & Chief Business Officer - Nordics, LTIMindtree, says, "We are truly honoured to be recognized as a Great Place to Work in Denmark. This acknowledgment reinforces that we're heading in the right direction of fostering a culture of inclusion, equality, and meritocracy. I am proud of our people and want to thank them for their contribution, hard work and commitment to our clients' success."

"Congratulations are in order for LTIMindtree, who have once again attained the prestigious Great Place to Work certification for the second consecutive year," says Liselotte Jensen, Managing Director, Great Place To Work Denmark. "Much like in 2022, LTIMindtree continues to radiate a profound sense of pride. Employees consistently affirm the ethical and honest nature of their business practices, acknowledging them as shining exemplars of the company's core values. This achievement, without a doubt, lays a solid and auspicious foundation for the company's future endeavours."

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture, employee experience and the leadership behaviours proven to deliver market-leading revenue and increased innovation. This recognition is unique and of great significance specifically for LTIMindtree in Denmark as it is part of India's largest engineering company, Larsen & Toubro, which was founded by two Danish engineers; Henning Holk Larsen with Soren Kristian Toubro in 1938 in Mumbai, India.

About LTIMindtree:

LTIMindtree is a global technology consulting and digital solutions company that enables enterprises across industries to reimagine business models, accelerate innovation, and maximize growth by harnessing digital technologies. As a digital transformation partner to more than 700 clients, LTIMindtree brings extensive domain and technology expertise to help drive superior competitive differentiation, customer experiences, and business outcomes in a converging world. Powered by 83,000+ talented and entrepreneurial professionals across more than 30 countries, LTIMindtree ? a Larsen & Toubro Group company ? combines the industry-acclaimed strengths of erstwhile Larsen and Toubro Infotech and Mindtree in solving the most complex business challenges and delivering transformation at scale. For more information, please visit https://www.ltimindtree.com/.

26 october 2023 at 04:35

News published onand distributed by:
Mployer Advisor Announces 2023 Winners of Third Annual 'Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards' in Virginia





Mployer Advisor has named more than 500 winners in over 50 regions as part of its third annual 2023 awards. The class of 2023 winners account for less than 5% of all brokerages nationwide.

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Mployer Advisor, the leading independent platform for employers to research, review, and evaluate insurance brokers has named over 500 winners across more than 50 regions as part of its third annual "Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards" for 2023. Mployer Advisor's Top Employee Benefits Consultant Award Program evaluates brokers based on breadth and depth of experience across employer industries, sizes, insurance products, and employer reviews. We recognize esteemed brokers that demonstrate market-leading competencies and a proven track record of success among employers, insurance providers, and peers.

Our team is proud to recognize this group of 2023 top-rated insurance advisors as part of our third annual Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards,"?said Brian Freeman, the Founder and CEO of Mployer Advisor. "Employer-sponsored healthcare and benefits cover over 150M Americans. Who an employer selects as their benefits advisor has more impact on employee cost and satisfaction with their healthcare than who an employer chooses as the insurance carrier. We have rated these brokerages utilizing sophisticated, industry-first algorithms, and we applaud the winners' demonstrated commitment to service, quality, and positive employer feedback."

Mployer Advisor determined the winners of the third annual "Top Employee Benefits Consultant Award" by analyzing each brokerage based on historical data, online reviews, their M Score rating, and demonstrated business experience.

The Virginia job market is competitive in the U.S. Mid-Atlantic region, employing more than 4.1 million people. Offering competitive employee benefits is a critical factor in hiring top talent for the region's employers. Finding and partnering with a highly rated insurance consultant is imperative to retaining talent in any market.

The recipients of the 2023 "Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards" for Virginia are as follows:

The above winners are a snapshot of Mployer Advisor's matrices and proprietary M Score on June 15, 2023. To view a full list of consultants in Virginia visit MployerAdvisor.com.

About Mployer Advisor:

Mployer Advisor is changing the way employers search, evaluate, and select insurance advisors. The intuitive platform connects employers and employees to great benefits and insurance plans by providing employers with actionable data to easily evaluate and select the best advisor for a company's specific needs. Most brokerages have a profile on Mployer Advisor, which provides independent ratings of insurance advisors to support employers. Insurance brokers cannot pay to influence their Mployer Advisor rating. Only highly rated brokerages are allowed to advertise on the platform. To learn more about Mployer Advisor, visit https://mployeradvisor.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: Rankings are dynamic, and this report may not reflect the rankings currently listed on Mployer Advisor's website. Because Mployer Advisor's research is ongoing, interested companies that want to join next year's list are encouraged to claim their free profile on Mployer Advisor.

Media Contact

Anthony Waters, Mployer Advisor, 1 (844) 743-6456, [email protected], mployeradvisor.com

SOURCE Mployer Advisor

26 october 2023 at 06:00

News published onand distributed by:
DTEN Enhances Microsoft Teams Collaboration with Certification of DTEN D7X 75"





SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DTEN, a prominent innovator in video conferencing solutions, proudly announces the official certification of their flagship DTEN D7X 75" video conferencing and collaboration system for Microsoft Teams. This achievement, born from a close partnership with Microsoft, marks the introduction of another intuitive Teams Rooms on Android collaboration solution from DTEN.

Teams customers can now access DTEN's top-tier products and rich collaboration features

This certification solidifies the DTEN D7X as a Teams Rooms on Android solution, offering Teams customers access to DTEN's top-tier products and the rich collaborative features of the Microsoft Teams platform, used by millions worldwide.

DTEN, renowned for its innovative portfolio of video collaboration solutions featuring built-in cameras, microphones, and speakers, delivers a seamless collaboration experience for hybrid teams working from diverse locations. The addition of the D7X 75" model to their lineup opens up new possibilities for medium-sized meeting spaces, complementing the already certified DTEN D7X 55" and DTEN Mate. With touch capabilities, the D7X provides an enhanced experience and enables seamless collaboration with Microsoft Whiteboard.

Wei Liu, CEO of DTEN, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Microsoft certification is further evidence of the overall quality of our products. We understand that customers demand flexibility as they navigate the world of hybrid work and learning. Our collaboration with the Microsoft Teams group has been exceptional, and we look forward to co-driving innovative Teams Room use cases. We're excited to bring our all-in-one experience to the Teams ecosystem."

The certification process involved rigorous testing to ensure that DTEN's collaboration solutions meet Microsoft's exacting standards for performance, compatibility, and security. With this certification, DTEN customers can trust that their devices will seamlessly integrate with Teams, ensuring a reliable and secure communication and collaboration experience.

In addition, other DTEN devices are currently undergoing Teams certification. Achieving Microsoft certification for all DTEN devices, including a personal desktop collaboration solution and new room solutions arriving in 2024, remains a top priority for the company.

The Microsoft Teams Certified DTEN D7X is available for purchase through authorized resellers and distributors. For more information, please visit DTEN's official website.

About DTEN

DTEN is revolutionizing the way people connect and collaborate through immersive, video-centric devices and subscription services. Our solutions are deployed in businesses, schools, homes, and hybrid environments globally, delivering intuitive, high-quality video conference experiences in every meeting space. Recipient of multiple international awards, DTEN is renowned for its plug-and-play simplicity, superior audiovisual clarity, and elegant design. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Jose, California, DTEN boasts an investment from Zoom Video Communications, Inc. Discover more at www.DTEN.com.

Contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE DTEN

26 october 2023 at 06:00

News published onand distributed by:
Quarterhill to Announce Q3 Fiscal 2023 Financial Results





TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - Quarterhill Inc. ("Quarterhill") (TSX: QTRH) (OTCQX: QTRHF) will release its financial results for the three- and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2023, on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. Chuck Myers, CEO, and Kyle Chriest, Interim CFO, will host a conference call and audio webcast at 10:00 a.m. ET the same day.

Webcast Information

Live audio webcast will be available at: https://app.webinar.net/R2gYoZwnlzM

Webcast replay will be available at: https://app.webinar.net/R2gYoZwnlzM

Traditional Dial-in Information

To access the call from Canada and U.S., dial 1.888.664.6383 (Toll Free)

and U.S., dial 1.888.664.6383 (Toll Free) To access the call from other locations, dial 1.416.764.8650 (International)

Rapidconnect

To instantly join the conference call by phone, please use the following URL to easily register and be connected into the conference call automatically: https://emportal.ink/48C6OLQ

Telephone Replay

Telephone replay will be available from 1:00 p.m. ET on November 8, 2023, until 11:59 p.m. ET on August 15, 2023, at: 1.888.390.0541 (Toll Free North America) or 1.416.764.8677.

Conference ID: 21772343 and Replay Passcode: 772343 #

About Quarterhill

Quarterhill is a leading provider of tolling and enforcement solutions in the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) industry. Our goal is global leadership in ITS, via organic growth of the Electronic Transaction Consultants, LLC (ETC) and International Road Dynamics Inc. (IRD) platforms, and by continuing an acquisition-oriented investment strategy that capitalizes on attractive growth opportunities within ITS and its adjacent markets. Quarterhill is listed on the TSX under the symbol QTRH and on the OTCQX Best Market under the symbol QTRHF. For more information, visit www.quarterhill.com.

SOURCE Quarterhill Inc.

26 october 2023 at 06:30

News published onand distributed by:
MiQ Bolsters Executive Team to Drive Next Phase of Programmatic Innovation





MiQ, the leading global programmatic media partner, today announced several strategic hires as part of the company's commitment in shaping the future of programmatic, further cementing its position as the preeminent authority on digital advertising for customers and the industry at large.

To spearhead efforts in one of MiQ's priority markets, the company has appointed Alfie Atkinson as CEO of UK, which he'll serve in addition to his current role as CEO of Canada. Having launched and rapidly grown the Canadian business to what it is today, Atkinson's new role will be integral to driving innovation for the UK. He will also work with the UK leadership team to continue to foster a client-first approach ? helping partners achieve their business objectives in the ever-changing programmatic space.

"I'm incredibly excited to lead our UK business, which is so core to MiQ's identity and legacy," said Alfie Atkinson, MiQ's CEO of UK and Canada. "Our team continues to be laser-focused on making MiQ the leader in all-things programmatic, and double down on what makes us so invaluable to our clients ? purpose-built technology, underpinned by the sharpest data insights, and executed by the industry's most proficient traders, analysts, and data scientists. I'm excited to work alongside the incredibly talented team here, and build upon our amazing culture while being bold and fearless in our quest to make the programmatic industry better."

MiQ has also hired three new senior executives to join its global leadership team:

Suzanne Strasser Grant as EVP, Global Head of Agencies & Partnerships , based in New York. With 25+ years of experience in sales and business development, and previous leadership roles at notable TV, print, and tech companies including Google, Snap, NBCU and Uber, Suzanne will play a crucial role in enhancing MiQ's partnerships, especially with major holding companies and brands across the globe.

, based in New York. With 25+ years of experience in sales and business development, and previous leadership roles at notable TV, print, and tech companies including Google, Snap, NBCU and Uber, Suzanne will play a crucial role in enhancing MiQ's partnerships, especially with major holding companies and brands across the globe. Danny Hopwood as Global Chief Commercial Strategy Officer , based in London. Danny brings 15+ years of experience in the digital media industry - previously working for WPP, Publicis, and OMG - and is a seasoned strategist in implementing innovative and effective media solutions that enable growth in both commercial output and capability development. He will use his extensive digital media, marketing, programmatic and ad tech expertise to drive integrated technology and product partnerships with MiQ's biggest customers.

, based in London. Danny brings 15+ years of experience in the digital media industry - previously working for WPP, Publicis, and OMG - and is a seasoned strategist in implementing innovative and effective media solutions that enable growth in both commercial output and capability development. He will use his extensive digital media, marketing, programmatic and ad tech expertise to drive integrated technology and product partnerships with MiQ's biggest customers. Mauricio Leon as Global Chief Commercial Trading Officer, based in London. As a longtime executive of global trading for companies like Spotify and Omnicom Group, Mauricio will be integral to MiQ's global commercial trading relationships with holding companies and independent agency partners.

"For a decade, Alfie Atkinson has proven himself as a vital leader and visionary for the Canadian market and we're confident that he will be instrumental in taking our UK business to new heights," said Richard Dunmall, President of MiQ. "With the additional expertise from Suzanne, Danny, and Mauricio across programmatic strategy, integrated partnerships, and global trading as well ? we're in an incredible position to double down on our mission to transform the industry, unlock new possibilities in programmatic, deliver the solutions and shared success our global customers deserve, and ultimately make MiQ evermore indispensable moving forward."

About MiQ

We're MiQ, a programmatic media partner for marketers and agencies. We connect data from multiple sources to do interesting, exciting, business-problem-solving things for our clients. We're experts in data science, analytics and programmatic trading, and our team of people are always ready to react and solve challenges quickly, to make sure you're always spending your media investments on the right things in the right places.

Headquartered in London, MiQ operates globally from 18 offices located across North America, Europe, and APAC. Our company has been recognized numerous times for our stellar contributions both internally and externally including for Ad Age's 2023 Best Places to Work Award, 2022 Inc. Programmatic Power Players list, and AdExchanger's Programmatic Power Players list in 2022, 2021, and 2020.

26 october 2023 at 07:35

News published onand distributed by:
Grid Battery Metals Exploration Team On Site at the Volt Canyon Nevada Lithium Project





COQUITLAM, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Grid Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Grid Battery") (TSXV:CELL),(OTCQB:EVKRF),(FRA:NMK2) announces that its exploration team has just visited Volt Canyon Property in Lander County, Nevada, approximately 50 kilometres west of Eureka, Nevada.

At the Volt Canyon Lithium Project, the Company contracted the services of Rangefront Geological ("Rangefront") to perform a detailed soil sampling on a 100 m X 100 m spacing as a first phase of the Company's exploration plan on site. The Company proposes to use the results of these soil samples, together with a planned second phase exploration program involving geophysical surveys of the property, to help predict geological structure and possible locations for lithium accumulation. Once the first two phases of this exploration program at Volt Canyon have been successfully completed, the Company will determine the next steps for its overall exploration plan. This may include, but is not limited to, a subsequent drilling program.

Tim Fernback, Grid President & CEO comments "Once we receive the results from the assay lab, we will use this information and plan our next steps at Volt Canyon. This is a very exciting time for our shareholders and company. It will be great to realize the potential of this new area of Nevada for lithium that has not previously been extensively explored by others in the past."

Volt Canyon Property Images and Grid Qualified Person, Mr. Seth Cude, P.G.

Soil Samples (100 X 100M Grid) (Volt Canyon Lithium Project)

About Rangefront Geological

Elko Nevada-based Rangefront Geological has combined in-depth expertise with cutting-edge technology to provide mining consulting services, contract labor, field crew services, and vehicular support to the mining industry. With services available across North America, Rangefront works closely with its clients to provide high-quality mineral exploration services.

Qualified Person

Mr. Seth Cude, P.G. is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and has approved the technical information contained within this news release.

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.

26 october 2023 at 07:30

View source version on accesswire.com:News published onand distributed by:
Nine Mile Metals to Drill the Wedge Project, Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick





VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- NINE MILE METALS LTD. (CSE: NINE, OTCQB: VMSXF, FSE: KQ9) (the "Company" or "Nine Mile"), is pleased to announce that it has received all necessary drill permits on its Wedge Project southwest of the Brunswick #12 Mine. Lantech Drilling has been engaged to drill these high priority targets once it completes the current hole at Nine Mile Brook. The Lantech track mount rig mobilizes this upcoming Monday after a required break during the NB Hunting season for the past 3 weeks.



The Company has identified nine (9) high priority target areas in our western camp portfolio, the recently acquired Wedge Project, which is located 20 kilometers southwest of the Brunswick #12 mine. In addition to the historic Wedge Mine, the Cominco Wedge Mine Extension (never drill tested), the newly acquired Wedge North Target, which completes the California Lake East Trend, West Wedge and Tribag (representing a 4.5kms VMS Trend) and Lower 44 Mile Brook targets.





Figure 1: "New" Drill Program High Priority Targets, Wedge Project Area, New Brunswick

Discovered in 1956, the Wedge Mine is located at the northern terminus of a strong magnetic linear (Figure 1). Between 1962 and 1968, the mine produced 1.503MT grading (2.88% Cu, 0.65% Pb, 1.81% Zn, 20.6 g/t Ag). McCutcheon et al (2005) stated a historical measured resource of 545,200T* (1.75% Cu, 1.71% Pb & 5.21% Zn) to a depth of 274 meters.

To the northwest, both the West Wedge and Tribag lie along the west flank of a similar magnetic anomaly near parallel to the one at the Wedge. At Tribag, trenching by Slam Exploration Ltd. in 2017 identified massive to strongly disseminated Pb / Zn mineralization. At the West Wedge, previous drilling intersected 12.8% zinc, 5.35% lead, 0.78% copper, 70.6 g/tonne silver and 1.30 g/t gold over 3.8m. The mineralization at both the West Wedge and Tribag occur within the sediments and volcanics of the Spruce Lake Formation of the California Lake Group.



"With previous drilling focused on known occurrences, the VMS mineralization at the Wedge Project has considerable room for expansion. The favourable horizon is over 5 kilometers in length defined by anomalous base metal soil geochemistry and coincident zones of conductivity. We look forward to testing these high priority targets," stated Gary Lohman, B.Sc., PGO, VP Exploration and Director.

Figure 1: above, displays the newly identified (9) VMS priority targets.

1. Wedge Mine 2. Wedge Mine Extension 3. TriBag Target 4. West Wedge Target



5. Lower 44 Mile Brook Target 6. Wedge North Target 7. Upper 44 Mile Brook Target

8. California East Drill Holes 2022 9. Canoe South Target

Our strategic acquisitions have now secured that Nine Mile owns the entire California East VMS Trend (targets 6 & 8). We believe the acquisition of claims over target (6) completes the strike extension of the mineralization intersected in the 8 highly successful California Drill hole results of 2022. The California East VMS Trend is approximately 3kms in length along a parallel trend to the rocks hosting the Canoe Landing Lake Deposit to the east (33.8MT Deposit). Target (2) is the Wedge Mine Extension that was identified and scheduled to drill by Cominco but never commenced. The original Wedge Mine cross-section of the deposit is displayed below in Figure 2:, the deposit is open at depth and along strike. We look forward to testing the historic mine and intersecting the high-grade mineralization we have previously released. The entire Wedge VMS Trend has been identified by EarthEx and their proprietary re-processing algorithm technology. The trend is 5kms in length.

Patrick J Cruickshank, CEO & Director stated, "Our strategic acquisitions now allow us to execute our exploration program without limitations. We now own the entire California East and Wedge VMS Trends. We are excited to test these high priority targets identified by our (3) technology systems and now that the Hunting season break is over, we are ready to get back to our Fall Drill Program. We will also test the Wedge Mine at depth and along trend "the Cominco Extension" that Cominco identified and scheduled to drill but never executed. We are highly encouraged by our Wedge Ore assays representing high grade Copper up to 29% and Lead-Zinc up to 41% previously reported. We continue to evaluate new technologies in the exploration space, the BMC has only 1% outcrop and 99% is subsurface hidden vertical deposits. Every 20 years a new technology causes the discovery of many new deposits. Our technical team of professionals including EarthEx and our AI partner, are working to uncover the next signature for exploration successes in the BMC. As you can see in Figure 1, EarthEx proprietary technology has clearly identified the existing Canoe Landing Lake & The Wedge Deposits in their processes and we are highly encouraged to test their newly identified targets. We look forward to our next news release sharing our progress.



Figure 2: The Original Wedge Mine Deposit Cross-section

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., Director who acts as the Company's 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 Company's primary business objective is to explore its four VMS Projects: Nine Mile Brook VMS; California Lake VMS; Canoe Landing Lake (East?West) VMS and our 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.

McCutcheon, S., et al, , 2005 - Stratigraphic setting of base-metal deposits in the Bathurst Mining Camp, New Brunswick; Geological Association of Canada, Mineralogical Association of Canada, Petroleum Geologists, Canadian Society of Soil Sciences, Joint Meeting - Halifax, May 2005, Field Trip B4; Department of Earth Sciences Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 3J, AGS Special Publication Number 30, 107p.

Social Media

ON BEHALF OF NINE MILE METALS LTD.

"Patrick J. Cruickshank, MBA"

CEO and Director

T: (506) 804-6117

E: [email protected]

Forward-Looking Information:

This press release may include forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business of Nine Mile. Forward-looking information is based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the management of Nine Mile. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as "will," "may," "would," "expect," "intend," "plan," "seek," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "predict," "potential," "continue," "likely," "could" and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include that (a) the Company will also test the Wedge Mine at depth and along trend of the Cominco Extension, (b) the Company believes the acquisition of claims over target (6) completes the strike extension of the mineralization intersected in the 8 highly successful California Drill hole results of 2022, and (c) the Company continues to evaluate new technologies in the exploration space. 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/d939cba8-e62a-4960-865f-c6c7db1fcfa5

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/90142c04-9c5d-4da3-bdd2-2c3823d34462

26 october 2023 at 08:25

News published onand distributed by:
Global Partners LP to Host Third-Quarter 2023 Financial Results Conference Call on November 9, 2023





Global Partners LP (NYSE: GLP) (the "Partnership") today announced that it will release its third-quarter 2023 financial results before the market opens on Thursday, November 9, 2023. At 10:00 a.m. ET, the Partnership will conduct a conference call for investors and analysts hosted by Eric Slifka, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gregory B. Hanson, Chief Financial Officer, and Mark Romaine, Chief Operating Officer.

The call can be accessed by dialing (877) 709-8155 (U.S. and Canada) or (201) 689-8881 (International). The live and archived audio replay of the conference call can be accessed by visiting the "Events & Presentations" section of the "Investors" portion of the Global Partners website, https://ir.globalp.com.

About Global Partners LP

With approximately 1,700 locations primarily in the Northeast, Global Partners is one of the region's largest independent owners, suppliers and operators of gasoline stations and convenience stores. Global also owns, controls or has access to one of the largest terminal networks in New England and New York, through which it distributes gasoline, distillates, residual oil and renewable fuels to wholesalers, retailers and commercial customers. In addition, Global engages in the transportation of petroleum products and renewable fuels by rail from the mid-continental U.S. and Canada. Global, a master limited partnership, trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "GLP." For additional information, visit www.globalp.com.

26 october 2023 at 08:35

News published onand distributed by:
Ninety-One Percent of Young Adults With Student Loans Say Financial Stress is Impacting Their Wellness -- Abbott Launches Blueprint of Award-Winning Program to Help Companies Tackle This Problem





New survey by Morning Consult on behalf of Abbott shows student loans are having a profound and far-reaching impact on young adults and their planning for the future

91% say financial stress is impacting their mental, physical wellness and student loan debt is a key driver of this financial stress

94% are interested in a workplace benefit in which they get an employer-provided 401(k) contribution as they pay off their school loans

Abbott's new blueprint of its award-winning Freedom 2 Save program helps companies create a proven student loan benefit program for their people

ABBOTT PARK, Ill., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ninety-one percent of young adults with student loans are so stressed about money they say it's impacting their physical and mental wellness, according to a new survey by Morning Consult on behalf of Abbott (NYSE: ABT). A key driver of that financial stress is student loan debt.

In 2018 Abbott tackled the student debt crisis head-on with its first-of-its-kind, award-winning Freedom 2 Save program that helps employees pay off their student loans while also saving for the future.

Now ? with college tuition at a historic high, student loan debt exceeding $1 trillion and payments of federal student loans resuming after a more than three-year pause ? Abbott is encouraging other employers to join in this effort with the launch of the Freedom 2 Save blueprint.

The blueprint guides employers through the process of developing and implementing a benefit like Freedom 2 Save.

Enacting this type of program will be easier starting in January 2024, thanks to a new federal law called the SECURE 2.0 Act, a provision of which was inspired by Freedom 2 Save. No longer will employers have to receive a private letter ruling from the IRS like Abbott had to do when creating the Freedom 2 Save program.

"Employees with student loans often have to choose between paying their school debt and saving for retirement. That's problematic because people who delay saving for the future will find it hard to catch up," said Mary Moreland, executive vice president, Human Resources, Abbott. "The good news is that employers can help relieve some of this burden with a program like Freedom 2 Save. Our blueprint will help simplify the process."

IMPACT OF STUDENT LOAN DEBT

Tens of millions of U.S. borrowers collectively owe $1.57 trillion in student loans, making them the third-largest form of consumer debt after mortgages and auto loans.

This student loan debt is having a profound and far-reaching impact on young adults, according to the Morning Consult survey of more than 500 people ages 18-39 with student loans. The data reinforce the need for workplace programs that help tackle the student debt crisis.

In fact, 94% of young adults with student debt expressed interest in an employer-provided 401(k) contribution as they pay off their school loans.

Other key findings among those surveyed:

86% are concerned about having to resume federal student loan payments this month.

63% didn't pay their federal student loans at all during the three-year pause.

And for 46%, student loans have impacted how much they contribute to their retirement plans.

Among those whose retirement savings has been impacted by student loan debt:

86% have reduced the amount of money they contribute to their retirement account.

55% stopped contributing to their retirement plan.

And 44% have withdrawn money from their retirement account.

"As the number of people with student loans grows, employees will increasingly be looking for companies to offer student loan repayment solutions that help them forge their financial futures," said Stacey MacPhetres, senior director, Education Finance, Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions. "This is a workplace benefit that employers need to seriously consider if they want to attract and retain key talent."

AN EMPLOYEE'S PERSPECTIVE

When Cynthia Chan, a supply chain logistics planner in Abbott's vascular business, was job hunting, Freedom 2 Save was one of the factors that drew her to the company.

"I accumulated about $15,000 in student debt after earning my master's degree in chemical engineering and had no idea how I'd be able to pay my loans and save money for my future," said Chan. "Freedom 2 Save lifted that weight off my shoulders. I've paid off nearly $5,000 while also saving for retirement, and can now see a time in the near future when I'll be free of this debt."

For those who choose to take advantage of Abbott's innovative program like Chan, here's what it could look like:

Employees who join Abbott in their early 20s with starting annual pay of $70,000 and take advantage of this program could see $48,000 accumulate in their 401(k) accounts after 10 years, assuming a 5% annual return and yearly merit pay increases of 2% ? without any 401(k) contribution of their own. That amount could be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional retirement savings by age 60.

"Our people have invested a lot in their education, and we don't want that to keep them from saving while they're still young," said Moreland. "We encourage other companies to download our blueprint and join us in this effort. Together we can help employees take on student loans and savings."

About Freedom 2 Save:

Through Freedom 2 Save, employees who are eligible for the company's 401(k) and who apply at least 2% of their eligible salary toward paying down a qualifying student loan will receive a 5% company contribution into their Abbott 401(k) annually. Employees don't have to put any money into their 401(k) to get this company contribution. Abbott was named to Fortune magazine's 2023 "Change the World" list for Freedom 2 Save, and the company was recognized by Pensions & Investments with an Innovation Award for the program. Freedom 2 Save was also featured in an essay in the book "The Future of Building Wealth: Brief Essays on the Best Ideas to Build Wealth ? for Everyone," published by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis in partnership with the Aspen Institute's Financial Security Program.

About the SECURE 2.0 Act:

Thanks to a provision in the SECURE 2.0 Act that was inspired by Freedom 2 Save, employers will be able to match student loan payments made by their employees with tax-advantaged contributions into their retirement accounts starting in January 2024.

Morning Consult Methodology:

The total sample size was 501 U.S. adults aged 18-39 who have continued with some form of education after high school, have existing student loan debt and live in a major U.S. market. The responding sample is weighted to the profile of the sample definition to provide a representative reporting sample. Interviews were conducted online in September 2023.

About Abbott:

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 115,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/abbott-/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @AbbottNews.

SOURCE Abbott

26 october 2023 at 09:00

News published onand distributed by:
Joyn Insurance Named "Speed to Market Champion of the Year" Award Recipient at Excellence in Insurance, Sponsored by Insurity





Insurity, a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs, today announced that Joyn Insurance was named "Speed to Market Champion of the Year" at Excellence in Insurance. The Excellence in Insurance awards ceremony took place in San Diego. It recognized the outstanding performances of P&C organizations in categories including exceptional policyholder service, digital transformation, and innovative excellence in data and analytics.

Joyn is an MGA underwriting E&S property and general liability for the "SMiddle" market segment, known as the upper end of small business and the lower end of the middle market. This segment grappled with convoluted manual processes and system hand-offs, leading to inefficiencies, errors, and performance-tracking hurdles. Joyn envisioned a revolutionary enhancement in underwriting efficiency and accuracy, aiming to exponentially increase its business output without compromising the customer experience.

Joyn's solution is "Spark," a platform joining top-tier insurance technologies through API integration into a proprietary workflow tool crafted in-house. Through Spark, Joyn achieved a holistic, unified experience for its underwriting and operations teams, automating an expansive range of processes from data capture to policy lifecycle management. The technology, built mainly on Microsoft's Azure platform, integrates with various insurance-specific solutions, including Insurity's Sure Billing-as-a-Service for billing.

The transformation led by Spark enabled Joyn to bind 1,700+ policies, engage with over 110 trading partners, and generate gross premiums exceeding $20M since its market inception. This success was further amplified by their Series A announcement at 2022's end, showcasing consistent, exponential growth without compromising quality.

"Joyn is honored to be recognized by Insurity as this year's Speed to Market Champion," said Fabiana Zambrano, Head of Product at Joyn Insurance. "Our initiative with Spark was not just about quickly bringing a new product to market, but a vision to redefine industry standards. Today, our platform stands as a testament to our commitment to offer unmatched efficiency, all while upholding the quality our clients trust us for."

"In today's dynamic landscape, rapid adaption and product innovation are essential to getting ahead of the competition," said Sylvester Mathis, Chief Insurance Officer at Insurity. "Joyn Insurance has demonstrated its ability to swiftly adapt to challenges and seize new opportunities to bring transformative solutions and processes to the marketplace."

For more information about the Excellence in Insurance awards, please contact [email protected].

About Insurity

Insurity is a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs. Insurity is trusted by 22 of the top 25 P&C carriers and 7 of the top 10 MGAs in the US and has over 400 cloud-based deployments. Through its best-in-class digital platform, unrivaled industry experience, and the industry's most robust analytics offerings, Insurity is uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional value, empowering customers to focus on their core businesses, optimize their operations, and provide superior policyholder experiences. Insurity is a portfolio company of GI Partners and TA Associates. For more information, visit www.insurity.com.

About Joyn Insurance

Joyn Insurance Services Inc. is a Delaware-domiciled, licensed producer and general agent that operates under its "Joyn"TM and "Joyn Insurance" brands. Joyn is a digital agency that underwrites commercial insurance in the small and middle markets. Joyn is powered by technology, data and expertise to deliver a transparent, trusted, and truly one-of-a-kind insurance experience to our valued brokers and customers.

26 october 2023 at 09:35

News published onand distributed by:
Bloomfire Redefines Enterprise Knowledge Management with Advanced AI Features





AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bloomfire, a leading AI-powered knowledge management platform provider, is pleased to announce enhanced generative AI and Enterprise Search solutions that are purpose-built to keep data secure, deliver accurate results, and augment employee performance. Bloomfire's thoughtful approach highlights the unique opportunities that generative AI brings to knowledge management software while addressing AI's challenges around security, reliability, and ethical use.

See Bloomfire's AI-enhanced Knowledge Solutions in Action

Bloomfire announces enhanced generative AI and Enterprise Search solutions built to augment employee performance.

Bloomfire's enhanced features are built for creators, stakeholders, and administrators of knowledge across the company:

AI Author Assist brings speed and efficiency to content creators by simplifying the time-intensive process of writing and refining high-quality, actionable posts. Authors can build summaries, key takeaways, and insights from their original work using a suite of generative AI tools with cutting-edge prompt engineering.

brings speed and efficiency to content creators by simplifying the time-intensive process of writing and refining high-quality, actionable posts. Authors can build summaries, key takeaways, and insights from their original work using a suite of generative AI tools with cutting-edge prompt engineering. AI Chat equips employees and front-line support agents with direct answers sourced from vetted company knowledge. Teams can trust that they will receive accurate responses because Bloomfire's AI technology only provides answers if relevant company knowledge is available.

equips employees and front-line support agents with direct answers sourced from vetted company knowledge. Teams can trust that they will receive accurate responses because Bloomfire's AI technology only provides answers if relevant company knowledge is available. Enterprise Search enables organizations to easily scale access to company knowledge through a single AI-powered search engine that integrates with SharePoint and Microsoft Teams document libraries. Streamline content and document management with automated processes for curating, migrating, and updating content in bulk.

"To navigate the complexities of today's information-dense environment, our clients partner with us to develop thoughtful and secure AI technologies. Our customer research shows that 87% indicate Bloomfire helps improve governance and protect against security risks and 83% note work quality and accuracy as outcomes. With that in mind, I'm thrilled that we can meet people where and how they work with this expanded toolset and help them solve their problems in knowledge management, research & insights, and customer support." ? Ben Little, CEO

Looking ahead to 2024, the company will continue to build and refine generative AI capabilities and expand the breadth of integrated sources for Enterprise Search to meet the unique needs of different industries and knowledge use cases.

About Bloomfire

Bloomfire is a pioneering KM software platform at the intersection of people, process, knowledge, and technology. Since 2011, Bloomfire has partnered with Fortune 500 companies across all industries and sectors to improve knowledge retention, employee onboarding, and drive operational efficiencies. To schedule a demonstration or request more information about knowledge management best practices, please visit www.bloomfire.com or contact [email protected] .

Follow Bloomfire on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/bloomfire/

SOURCE Bloomfire

26 october 2023 at 10:47

News published onand distributed by:
Masdar signs 1GW Clean Energy Agreement in Azerbaijan following Presidential Inauguration of Garadagh Solar Park, Largest in the Region





- Masdar signs three investment agreements for two solar projects and one onshore wind project with combined capacity of 1GW, supporting Azerbaijan's 2030 clean energy ambitions

- Garadagh inauguration attended by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar

- HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber calls on all nations to follow Azerbaijan in setting clear energy transition plans to deliver a COP of action, a COP of solidarity, a COP for all

- Garadagh is Masdar's first renewable energy project in Azerbaijan as the company expands its footprint across Caucasus and Central Asia

BAKU, Azerbaijan, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC ? Masdar, the UAE's clean energy powerhouse, has signed agreements for solar and onshore wind projects with a total capacity of 1 gigawatt (GW) in Azerbaijan, following the inauguration of the region's largest operational solar plant, the 230MW Garadagh Solar Park.

The strategic agreements cover the progression of the first phase of a 10GW pipeline of renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan signed in June 2022. This follows the successful development of Garadagh, Azerbaijan's first foreign investment-based independent solar power project, and the largest solar plant in the region.

The inauguration of Garadagh was overseen by HE Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and HE Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, COP28 President-Designate, and Chairman of Masdar.

The 1GW clean energy agreements were signed by Masdar Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, HE Parviz Shahbazov and Azerbaijan Minister of the Economy, HE Mikayil Jabbarov.

Also in attendance at the inauguration were HE Suhail Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of Energy; HE Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE Minister of Investment and Deputy Chairman of Masdar; HE Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; HE Mohammed Murad Al Blooshi, UAE Ambassador to Azerbaijan, and HE Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, and HE Elchin Bagirov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to the UAE attended.

HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President-Designate and Chairman of Masdar, said: "Garadagh is a testament to our shared commitment to diversifying the global energy mix. Azerbaijan's ambition to develop low and zero-carbon solutions through renewable energy, is exactly what the world needs at this time.

"The UAE is proud to support Azerbaijan's clean energy goals, to generate more than 30 percent of its overall energy capacity from renewables by 2030. We need all nations of the world to set out clear energy transition plans with clear targets for renewable energy capacity. As the UAE prepares to host COP28 in November, our North Star for climate action must be to keep the ambition of limiting global temperatures to 1.5C within reach."

Speaking at the inauguration event, Dr Sultan Al Jaber also commended His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev and the nation of Azerbaijan for its commitment to a defined, strategic plan of action to develop new industries, new jobs and green economic growth.

In his speech HE Dr Sultan said:

With just 34 days to COP28 , Garadagh illustrates the practical action needed to turn the goals of the Paris Agreement into tangible reality.

, Garadagh illustrates the practical action needed to turn the goals of the Paris Agreement into tangible reality. Paris unified the world around a common goal, but since then, we have not seen enough action to close a massive emissions gap.

unified the world around a common goal, but since then, we have not seen enough action to close a massive emissions gap. While investment in renewable energy continues to grow, with a record 500GW added globally this year, the world must triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 to keep 1.5 within reach.

It is critical to bring everybody to the table to be part of the solution. This is the spirit of inclusivity needed at COP28 , bringing the world together to focus on solutions and results.

HE Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan Minister of Energy, commented: "Today is marked by the achievements of the state policy of the President of Azerbaijan, which prioritizes the development of renewable energy. The commissioning of the largest solar power plant based on the first foreign investment in our energy history, as well as the signing of investment agreements for the implementation of solar and wind energy projects with a capacity of 1000 MW, show that our country's green energy and green investment plans are successfully becoming a reality. Azerbaijan is pleased to realize its strategic goals as a green energy producing and exporting country with Masdar and these projects will play an important role in increasing the share of renewable energy sources in electricity generation capacity to 30 percent by 2030."

The Garadagh plant which represents Masdar's first project in the country, will generate half a billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, enough to power more than 110,000 homes, reducing carbon emissions by over 200,000 tonnes a year. The project is co-financed by Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Asian Development Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Japan International Cooperation Agency.

Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar, said: "The inauguration of Garadagh, the largest operational plant in the region, is a milestone achievement. Azerbaijan is a key strategic partner for Masdar and the signing of these additional agreements today pave the way to accelerate the scale of Azerbaijan's clean energy vision. Garadagh is the first in a number of potential projects to develop onshore wind, offshore wind, solar and green hydrogen with a total combined capacity of 10GW. This will lead to greater investment and international collaboration as we work together to help Azerbaijan achieve its ambitious climate goals."

As the UAE's clean energy powerhouse and one of the leading clean energy companies in the world, Masdar is accelerating the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges.

Established in 2006, Masdar is active in more than 40 countries with a total electricity generation capacity of more than 20GW. It has invested, or committed to invest, in worldwide projects with a combined value of more than US$30 billion with ambitious growth plans to reach 100GW and 1 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.

About Masdar

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is the UAE's clean energy champion and one of the largest companies of its kind in the world, advancing the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges. Established in 2006, Masdar is today active in over 40 countries, helping them to achieve their clean energy objectives and advance sustainable development. Masdar is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and under this ownership the company is targeting a renewable energy portfolio capacity of at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and an annual green hydrogen production capacity of up to 1 million tonnes by the same year.

For more information, please visit: http://www.masdar.ae and connect: facebook.com/masdar.ae and twitter.com/masdar.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258702/Masdar_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258701/Masdar_2.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1973446/Masdar_Logo.jpg

26 october 2023 at 10:52

News published onand distributed by:
Ford+ Again Attracts New Customers, Drives Growth in Q3; Company Changing How It Works to Improve Quality, Costs





Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) today reported its 2023 third quarter financial results. Click here or visit media.ford.com to view the news release. Visit shareholder.ford.com for the slide presentation and access the webcast to the Ford earnings call, which begins at 5:00 p.m. ET. The call will feature Jim Farley, president and CEO; John Lawler, chief financial officer; and other members of the Ford senior management team.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company's Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for customers and deepen their loyalty. Ford develops and delivers innovative, must-have Ford trucks, sport utility vehicles, commercial vans and cars and Lincoln luxury vehicles, along with connected services. The company does that through three customer-centered business segments: Ford Blue, engineering iconic gas-powered and hybrid vehicles; Ford Model e, inventing breakthrough EVs along with embedded software that defines exceptional digital experiences for all customers; and Ford Pro, helping commercial customers transform and expand their businesses with vehicles and services tailored to their needs. Additionally, Ford is pursuing mobility solutions through Ford Next, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 177,000 people worldwide. More information about the company and its products and services is available at corporate.ford.com.

26 october 2023 at 16:10

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Definity Financial Corporation to announce third quarter 2023 results on November 9, 2023 and hold its earnings conference call the following day





WATERLOO, ON, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - Definity Financial Corporation (TSX: DFY) will release its third quarter 2023 results after the market close on Thursday, November 9, 2023, which will be made available at www.definityfinancial.com/English/investors/.

A live webcast and conference call are scheduled for Friday, November 10 at 11:00 a.m. (ET) where Rowan Saunders, President and Chief Executive Officer; Philip Mather, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer; Paul MacDonald, Executive Vice-President, Personal Insurance & Digital Channels; and Fabian Richenberger, Executive Vice-President, Commercial Insurance & Insurance Operations, will discuss the results, followed by a question-and-answer period with analysts.

The conference call is available by dialing 416-764-8659 or 1-888-664-6392 (toll-free in North America). Please call ten minutes before the start of the call. To join the conference call without operator assistance, you may register and enter your phone number at https://emportal.ink/3PL91Nz to receive an instant automated call back.

The archived webcast will be available at www.definityfinancial.com/English/investors/events-and-presentations following the call. A replay of the call will also be available on November 10, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. (ET) until midnight on November 17, 2023. To listen to the replay, call 416-764-8677 or 1-888-390-0541 (toll-free in North America), passcode 204140.

About Definity Financial Corporation

Definity Financial Corporation ("Definity", which includes its subsidiaries where the context so requires) is one of the leading property and casualty insurers in Canada, with over $3.8 billion in gross written premiums for the 12 months ended June 30, 2023 and approximately $2.7 billion in equity attributable to common shareholders as at June 30, 2023.

SOURCE Definity Financial Corporation

26 october 2023 at 17:01

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Haze and smoke from forest fires affect La Paz, Bolivia, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. JUAN KARITA / AP

Tens of thousands of Bolivian pupils had their classes suspended as schools closed their doors due to air pollution caused by massive forest fires, the education minister said Wednesday, October 25.

Some 3,650 schools  about 15% of the national total  have been closed until Friday, Minister Edgar Pary told reporters.

The Santa Cruz region, Bolivia's economic engine and most populous region, has been most affected.

It is a common practice to set fires to free up forest land for farming. According to the Environment Ministry, some two million hectares (4.9 million acres) of forest and grassland have been burned this year. The skies over the capital La Paz and the second city of El Alto, which hosts the international airport, were blackened by smoke Wednesday.

Health Minister Maria Rene Castro said health warnings have been issued, including a recommendation for people to wear face masks, reduce physical activity, and for the elderly, children and pregnant women to stay indoors. The work of firefighters has been made more difficult by a shortage of water in Bolivia in the midst of drought.
Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said on Thursday, October 26, he hopes to sign a peace agreement with arch-foe Azerbaijan in the coming months, weeks after Baku recaptured Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic-Armenian separatists.

Yerevan and Baku have been locked in a decades-long conflict for control of Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Baku took control of the mountainous region in September in a lightning 24-hour offensive that ended decades of pro-Armenian separatist rule.

"We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalization of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months," Pashinyan said in an address to an international economic forum in the Georgian capital Tbilisi.

He said the future peace treaty will be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbors' Soviet-era borders.

Read more Article reserve a nos abonnes In deserted Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan organizes an express tour of the reconquered enclave

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said previously that a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year. Pashinyan also said Thursday he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats.

Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan. In 2020 and in the 1990s, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought two wars for control of Karabakh, which is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but home to a majority ethnic-Armenian population.

Internationally mediated peace talks between the ex-Soviet republics have so far failed to produce a breakthrough. Almost all of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population  some 100,000 people  fled for Armenia after Baku's offensive, sparking a refugee crisis.
GARDAI have arrested a ninth person as part of a major operation targeting organised crime in Limerick.

The juvenile was arrested this Thursday morning and is currently being detained at a garda station in Limerick under the provisions of section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007.

Five men and three women were arrested on Tuesday during a series of coordinated raids in Limerick, Clare and Cork.

Four firearms, 11,310 in cash and significant quantities of cocaine, cannabis and other prescribed medications were seized during Tuesday's operation which involved local gardai and several specialist units.

Gardai have also confirmed that during the search of a field in the Limerick area, the assistance of the Army EOD Unit was requested to make safe a suspicious device.

In an update this Thursday morning, gardai have confirmed that two of the men have now been charged and will appear before Limerick District Court later.

"The two other men who were arrested on Tuesday, October 24 2023, remain detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Garda Stations in the Limerick region," added a spokesperson.

Investigations are ongoing.
THERE are plenty of 'Spooktacular' events happening throughout Limerick this Halloween.

One of the biggest events will take place in nearby Clare with the Monsters, Misfits and Mayhem celebration set to take over Bunratty Castle this weekend.

From ghosts swooping from the skies to a deathly torture chamber in the castle basement and from the witches kitchen to the haunted train that snakes through the Folk Park, no gravestone will be left unturned at the 26-acre visitor attraction this Halloween weekend.

Monsters, Misfits and Mayhem takes place from 10:30am to 1:30pm and 2pm to 5pm each day from Saturday October 28 to Monday October 30.

Meanwhile, the Samhain Festival will feature a number of spooky events in venues throughout the city from October 26-28.

Ghost stories, musical performances and a special parade are just some of the special events taking place.

On Thursday at 4:30pm at Lumen Street Theatre, Eddie Lenihan will be telling folktales which has been described as the "highlight of the festival".

Later that night, Eddie will be telling more tales (that are not for the faint hearted!) at Treaty City Brewery at 7pm.

On Friday, brave souls will take to the River Shannon from 5pm for the annual Samhain Swim.

From Murder to Miscarriage with Caoimhe Tobin, a special talk will introduce the audience to the subject of osteoarchaeology, itself a sub discipline of archaeology.

This event takes place at 6:30pm at Curraghgour Boat Club.

If that doesn't tickle your spooky bone, then perhaps a rather unusual event at 7:30pm held in Jack Monday's will be more up your street.

At the Death Cafe people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death. The objective is to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives.

Lumen Street Theatres three-day festival celebrating the Irish origins of Halloween will culminate with a light filled parade through Nicholas Street on Saturday at approximately 7pm.

The procession of lanterns made by local communities will be a focal point, which will conclude at the Potato Market.

Dress in your Halloween outfit and come line the streets of the Medieval quarter of Limerick to celebrate Samhain and cheer the spectacle on.

At the Jetland Shopping Centre, children who may not want to be scared senseless can take part in the Happy Halloween Experience.

The experience is hosted by Hattie OGoodspell, the beloved good witch of Munster, in her magical house.

Hattie will welcome children into her home to show off all of her spooky collection and amaze them with her display of magical spells.

Towns and villages throughout the county will be hosting local events and festivals. You can find out more information all the events above on Limerick.ie
THE planned closure of Wyeth in Askeaton is not comparable with the job losses in Dell in Limerick in 2009, local TD Niall Collins has said.

Around 542 roles are at risk of redundancy at the formula milk producer as its parent firm Nestle shifts production to Switzerland and China.

Its the single biggest job loss in Limerick since Dell announced the shedding of 1,900 roles in 2009.

But Minister of State Mr Collins, a government TD at that time, said comparisons should not be made.

Its not comparable. On so many levels. Its obviously very traumatic for the workers. But the country and government is in a far better place to be able to support the workers and help them achieve alternative options in employment, he said.

Mr Collins - who admitted that government was blindsided by the announcement - pledged the support of all three County Limerick TDs to the workers who will be impacted.

It was a sentiment reflected by Minister of State Patrick ODonovan.

He said: I think there is an element of shock in the area to be honest. This came out of the blue and there was no advance notice or feeling that anything was likely.

He confirmed Jobs Minister Simon Coveney would be travelling to Askeaton, in the coming days, to meet with staff and local stakeholders.

My focus now is to work with Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney together with the local plant management and employees to see what potential options there are for this hugely important plant, said Mr ODonovan.

Mayor of Limerick, Cllr Gerald Mitchell said: Its a very sad time for west Limerick. Wyeth is there almost 50 years. Youre talking not only about the impact on the area, but the impact with the indirect services.

The first citizen believes time is on our side, however, adding that he hopes Nestle might reconsider its plans amid a change in the Chinese economy.

Everything that can be done should be done to help those people most impacted. Not only the employees, but the companies contracted to them and the businesses in the area whod get a lot of trade from Wyeth, added Mayor Mitchell.

Wyeth initially opened in Askeaton back in 1974, meaning next year it marks its 50th anniversary in west Limerick.
TWO LIMERICK gardai thought they were going to die as a car rammed their patrol vehicle with considerable ferocity during a high-speed pursuit, leaving them with life-changing injuries.

Garda Alan Griffin, accompanied by Garda Niall Deegan, stopped their jeep on the Clonmacken Roundabout, Condell Road to prevent a fleeing driver from going into the city centre and for public safety - to stop other motorists encountering the speeding Mazda 6.

Evan Toomey, aged 27, of Oak Park, Ennis, Co Clare, pleaded guilty to a number of offences including criminal damage with intent to endanger life which carries with it a maximum sentence of life in prison.

Toomey, who has 89 previous convictions, also pleaded guilty to drugs offences and dangerous driving.

Prosecuting barrister John OSullivan, instructed by State Solicitor Padraig Mawe, outlined the case with the assistance of Detective Sergeant Fergal Hanrahan.

Mr OSullivan said late on the evening of November 18, 2019, a Mazda 6 parked by the McDonalds in the Crescent Shopping Centre drew the attention of gardai (not Garda Griffin and Garda Deegan).

Det Sgt Hanrahan said when the patrol car pulled in beside the Mazda, the car being driven by Toomey reversed out.

The Mazda drove off at speed, mounted a kerb and travelled against the flow of traffic on St Nessans Road in the direction of Punches Cross while being pursued by gardai, Limerick Circuit Court heard.

Mr OSullivan said the Mazda overtook an ambulance by the Maxol Service Station and continued on to the Loughmore roundabout.

The vehicle drove on the wrong side of the road. One hundred and fifty metres from Quinns Cross Roundabout near the cement factory it overtook an ambulance on a blind bend, said Mr OSullivan.

A garda alert had gone out and a second patrol vehicle had joined the chase because the first vehicle couldnt keep up.

The Mazda continued into Ard Aulin housing estate before joining an N18 slip road.

It entered the tunnel, swerving across both lanes, drove through the toll barrier without stopping, said Mr OSullivan.

Garda Griffin and Garda Deegan, of the Roads Policing Unit, had also responded and headed towards the Clonmacken roundabout.

The prosecuting barrister said Garda Griffin parked the marked garda vehicle, a Hyundai Tucson, on the roundabout in an effort to steer the Mazda away from the city centre and for public safety so other motorists wouldnt encounter the fleeing vehicle.

They left room for the vehicle to pass in front. The Mazda driven by Evan Toomey mounted a concrete island and went directly into the passenger side of the garda vehicle causing an impact of the greatest severity. The driver made no effort to evade the marked vehicle. The garda vehicle was pushed across the roundabout into a sign, said Mr OSullivan.

The barrister asked Det Sgt Hanrahan if it was a deliberate act?

Yes. There were no brake lights on the Mazda, said Det Sgt Hanrahan, who played CCTV footage of the collision for Judge Dermot Sheehan.

The court heard that Toomey and another man, who has already appeared before the courts, ran into a nearby housing estate and were later arrested. 1,793 of cannabis and 483 worth of heroin was found in the Mazda.

Det Sgt Hanrahan said in the first interview with gardai, Toomey denied driving the Mazda but admitted running away. Toomey said his mate was driving the car, he had told him to slow down and was glad no one died.

Det Sgt Hanrahan said a forensic investigation was carried out which showed DNA on the drivers airbag which belonged to Toomey.

Mr OSullivan said Toomey has 89 previous convictions including for theft, handling stolen property, criminal damage, robbery, production of an article in the course of a dispute and aggravated burglary.

Mr OSullivan said Garda Griffin and Garda Deegan are long-standing members of An Garda Siochana attached to the Traffic Corps.

Both members read out victim impact statements which outlined the extent of their injuries.

Garda Deegan said: In the moment before our patrol car was struck, I genuinely thought Alan Griffin and I were going to die.

Garda Griffin said he will never forget thinking his colleague was dead as he lay unconscious beside him.

Garda Griffin said Toomey has not offered one apology to him and is of the firm opinion that any apology offered on his sentence date is done so as a sentencing strategy. Garda Deegan said he could never accept any apology given to me from Evan Toomey.

Yvonne Quinn, BL, who represented Toomey, said her clients instructions were to express an unreserved apology to the gardai.

His behaviour was disgraceful and appalling. He is truly sorry. Drugs are at the root of his difficulties - he has a long-standing addiction and was going to Limerick to get drugs. He expressed concern in garda interviews about the gardai, said Ms Quinn, who referred to a report by the Probation Service.

He said he was under the influence of cocaine and cannabis at the time. He became paranoid, panicked and took off at speed. They were using drugs at the time. When asked why he didnt stop, he said it was due to the amount of cocaine in his system. He said it was an accident and he did not intentionally drive into the patrol car, said Ms Quinn, who handed in a hand-written apology by Toomey to the judge.

Judge Sheehan said: It appears to me it was an intentional act.

The judge said he was not going to give his sentence on that date as he had a lot of documentation to read. He adjourned sentencing to this week.
Israels ambassador to Ireland has said she needs to respond to claims about her country after being criticised during the week for accusing the Irish president of misinformation.

Dana Erlich had told the Sunday Independent that she was frustrated by President Michael D Higginss comments suggesting Israel had breached international law.

He said last week that Israel stating its intention to breach international law reduced protection for civilians under the Geneva Conventions to tatters.

Ms Erlich claimed this was misinformation, and said announcing Israels intentions in advance was in accordance with international law.

She also said that Ireland was not a neutral country in relation to Israel and the Palestinians.

Irelands Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney said the ambassadors comments were not helpful, and Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik said Ms Erlich had overstepped the line and her position is under question.

Asked about her comments in relation to Mr Higgins, Ms Erlich told RTEs Drivetime programme: There are some moments in history that you cant be silent.

And obviously I do not wish to criticise any Irish officials, but when things are said about my country I need to respond to that, especially at a time of war when there is a lot of misinformation being circled around in the social networks, in the media.

Since I am the representative of the Israeli people here in Ireland, I need to respond to anything that is said about that and to make sure that I try and give the most accurate and extensive information that I have.

Asked what the misinformation was, Ms Erlich replied: The myth or assumption that Israel is breaking international law. We are not.
The trial of the man accused of killing Ashling Murphy has heard that material recovered from a bicycle matches his DNA.

Ms Murphy, 23, was killed while exercising on a canal path in Tullamore, Co Offaly, at about 3.30pm on January 12 last year.

Jozef Puska, 33, of Lynally Grove in Mucklagh, Tullamore, has pleaded not guilty to the schoolteachers murder.

Appearing before the Central Criminal Court, fingerprint expert Dr Kim Connick, of Forensic Science Ireland, explained that she had been tasked with examining three items.

She said she examined a bike with a dark grey frame which had bright green forks and handlebars.

She said she inspected the bicycle visually but also used aluminium fingerprint powder, a process known as superglue fuming, and dyeing to search for marks.

I developed one mark with the aluminium powder, she added.

She said the finger mark was on the underside of the saddle and was consistent with someone placing their hand there to lift the bike.

The other two items were a navy padded jacket and pair of Rayban sunglasses with gold frames.

The jacket had been stained with a blood-like substance, she said.

Dr Connick said she examined it with high-intensity light sources and superglue fuming.

She said no fingerprint mark developed on the jacket.

Dr Connick said she used aluminium fingerprint powder and superglue fuming to inspect the sunglasses, which had a small amount of mud on the front lens.

She developed an area of possible touch on the inside lens but there were no identifiable ridge details that would be needed for identification.

The sunglasses were sent to a DNA team as they may have been able to recover DNA from the item.

Detective Sergeant Damien Carroll, from the Garda Technical Bureau, told the court he had more than 22 years of experience in identifying people through finger and hand prints.

He said no two people have the same fingerprints and that they are not the same even on different fingers of the same person.

Mr Carroll said he was provided with two sets of prints belonging to Mr Puska which had been taken by gardai.

Having examined the detail of the fingerprints and compared it with the print taken from the mountain bike, he said he was in no doubt that the print on the saddle matches Puskas right ring finger.

The court also heard from recently retired forensic scientist John Hoade, from the Forensic Science Laboratory, who explained he had personally taken a DNA sample from the handlebars of the bike.

He said the sample was a full profile and it matched a sample taken from Puska.

He explained to the court that a full profile contains 32 elements.

The witness said that collected samples often do not have all 32 elements, but in this instance it was a full profile.

Mr Hoade compared the sample with DNA taken from a sample of Puskas blood and from a swab of the accused.

He said: All three profiles matched each other.

Mr Hoade said the probability of the DNA on the bike belonging to Puska was one billion times more likely than someone else.

He said everybodys actual DNA is unique to them but acknowledged there was a theoretical possibility of a matching DNA profile between two individuals.

Asked if he had ever found two matching profiles outside of identical twins, he replied: Never.
Irish deputy-premier Micheal Martin has said unionism should have claimed victory on the Windsor Framework.

The Tanaiste also told the BBC that the majority of what the DUP was trying to achieve was awarded in the Framework.

Devolved government in Northern Ireland has not been operational for over a year due to the DUPs boycott of powersharing institutions in protest against post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Unionist parties including the DUP expressed concern that the initial post-Brexit trade deal, the Protocol, created a border in the Irish Sea by implementing checks on good travelling between Northern Ireland and mainland UK.

The Windsor Framework, introduced by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, sought to alleviate these concerns through the creation of a red lane, green lane system to minimise checks on goods coming from mainland UK to Northern Ireland not intended for further travel into the EU.

The DUP declined to return to government following the Windsor Framework announcement and is currently in negotiations with the British government to seek further legislative assurances of Northern Irelands trading position within the UK.

Mr Martin said the DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson wanted to return to government, but should have done so after the Windsor Framework was announced.

I take in good faith Jeffrey Donaldsons commitment that he wants the executive and the assembly back, he said.

I think the Windsor agreement was a major milestone, I think actually unionism should have claimed victory on the Windsor agreement.

Much of what they campaigned for, the vast majority of what they campaigned for was delivered in the Windsor agreement.

Asked if he believed it was a mistake by Sir Jeffrey not to endorse the Windsor Framework, Mr Martin said I do.

I think it was a missed opportunity because things were provided for in the Windsor agreement that unionism was told couldnt be provided for two years ago, he said.

During a visit to Belfast in August, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said if Stormont was not operational by autumn that it would be time to consider alternatives or plan-B.

Mr Martin said that the Irish government would work with Northern Ireland parties and the British government in exploring next steps.

There is no specific plan B there and I think the use of the phrase plan B is not the most elegant of phrases to characterise this, he said.

But lets be clear that if the institutions arent back, that is fairly fundamental in terms of the Good Friday Agreement, and I think it will mean that the British and Irish governments will have to engage, and with the parties involved, in terms of next steps.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said only governments could tackle the risks posed by AI, a technology he said could make it easier to build chemical or biological weapons, spread fear and, in a worse-case scenario, escape human control.

Speaking ahead of a global gathering he has convened next week to examine the risks of the technology, Sunak said he hoped the participants could agree on the nature of the risks and establish a global panel to assess them.

Britain will set up an artificial intelligence (AI) safety institute to "examine, evaluate and test new types of AI so that we understand what each new model is capable of, exploring all the risks from social harms like bias and misinformation through to the most extreme risks," Sunak said.

Representatives of AI companies, political leaders and experts will meet at Bletchley Park - where Britain's World War Two code-breakers worked - in southern England on Nov. 1-2.

"Get this wrong, and AI could make it easier to build chemical or biological weapons," Sunak said. "And in the most unlikely but extreme cases, there is even the risk that humanity could lose control of AI completely."

Sunak wants Britain to be a global leader in AI safety, carving out a role after Brexit between the competing economic blocs of the United States, China and the European Union.

Around 100 participants at next week's meeting will discuss subjects including the unpredictable advances of AI and the potential for humans to lose control of it, according to the agenda.

Sunak said China had been invited but he could not guarantee that a representative of the country would attend.

U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis are on the guest list.

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) economies, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Britain, the United States and the European Union, in May called for adoption of standards to create trustworthy AI and to set up a ministerial forum dubbed the Hiroshima AI process.

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Ola Electric on Thursday said it has raised 3,200 crore through an equity fundraise led by existing investor Temasek and project debt from State Bank of India (SBI) to build a cell manufacturing factory and expand its electric two-wheeler business.

Ola Electric has introduced new products in its electric scooter line-up, with the latest S1X starting from 89,999 ex-showroom for the 2kWh battery variant.

Mint was the first to report on 6 September that Ola Electric Mobility has signed an agreement to raise $140 million from existing investors including Temasek Holdings, at a valuation of $5.4 billion, lower than the $7-8 billion that Ola was seeking.

Singapore state investor Temasek is pumping in around $90 million. Othersmostly family officeswill contribute the remaining sum.

Ola Electrics last round valued it at around $5 billion. In January 2022, Ola Electric raised around $200 million from Tekne Private Ventures, Alpine Opportunity Fund and Edelweiss.

This round gives Ola Electric an additional buffer and a greater runway before its proposed initial public offering (IPO).

Ola Electric, a recipient of the governments production-linked incentive for Advanced Chemistry Cells (ACC PLI) is setting up a lithium-ion cell manufacturing facility in India with an initial capacity of 5 GWh in phase-1 which will be further scaled up in phases to 100 GWh at full capacity, Ola Electric said.

Ola Electric has appointed several investment banks and is preparing for an IPO in early 2024, Mint reported on 25 May.

Ola Electric leads the domestic electric two-wheeler market with its S1 and S1 Pro scooters.

In September, it had a nearly 29% share of e-scooters sold in India, according to the governments VAHAN dashboard.

Ola Electric had showcased an electric car in August 2022, but the launch, originally slated for 2024, is likely to be delayed. It has also showcased designs for an e-motorcycle.

Ola Electric said it is seeing an increase in turnout at its experience centres following the launch of the S1 X+, its cheapest variant so far. Our sales have gone through the roof this Dussehra and Navratri. Selling a scooter every 10 seconds right now, and almost 2.5x of last year," Bhavish Agarwal, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) posted on X on the day of the Dussehra festival.

However, he did not clarify how long it had been observing the trend. Last month, rival Ather Energy announced it has raised 900 crore ($108.27 million) from its shareholders Hero MotoCorp and Singapores GIC through a rights issue.

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Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India ( RBI ) on Thursday increased the threshold above which banks can offer retail deposits without premature withdrawal facility to 1 crore from 15 lakh earlier.

This means banks will have to allow retail depositors the facility to prematurely withdraw fixed deposits (FDs) below 1 crore. Typically, banks offer higher rates on non-callable deposits or those that cannot be withdrawn before maturity. For instance, State Bank of India (SBI) offers 7.1% on a one-year non-callable term deposit of over 15 lakh and below 2 crore, while the rate on a callable counterpart of below 2 crore is 6.8%.

On a review, it has been decided that the minimum amount for offering non-callable term deposits (TDs) may be increased from 15 lakh to 1 crore i.e., all domestic term deposits accepted from individuals for amount of 1 crore and below shall have premature-withdrawal-facility," RBI said, adding that these instruction will also be applicable for non-resident (external) rupee deposits and ordinary non-resident deposits.

The new norms are applicable to all commercial and co-operative banks, and will come into effect immediately.

BANK OF INDIA More Information

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Australia's communications watchdog, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), has imposed a fine of Aus$412,500 ($260,000) on Uber for sending in excess of two million emails to customers, violating anti-spam laws, AFP reported.

The emails, promoting an alcohol home delivery service, were dispatched on a single day in January. They also did not provide customers with an option to unsubscribe. Moreover, more than 500,000 of these emails reached recipients who had previously expressed their desire not to receive marketing emails.

Also Read: Former Google employee works as Uber driver in Bengaluru; Find out why

In response to these violations, Uber received a fine of Aus$412,500 (equivalent to US$260,000).

The Law

According to Australian law, businesses are prohibited from sending marketing emails without the explicit consent of customers. Moreover, these emails must include a clear option for recipients to unsubscribe.

Also Read: Uber will now allow users to book Hot Air Balloon rides. Here's how it works

Nerida O'Loughlin, the chair of ACMA, described Uber's actions as an "avoidable error." She emphasised the importance of respecting customers' preferences, noting that they are becoming increasingly frustrated when their wishes are disregarded.

Uber issued an apology, acknowledging their error in sending these marketing emails. A spokesperson for the company informed AFP that they had made a mistake in this regard.

Over the past 18 months, businesses in Australia have collectively paid more than Aus$11 million in fines for breaching spam and telemarketing laws, as reported by ACMA.

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Investment lender Morgan Stanley has called on company veteran Ted Pick to fill in the boots of outbound CEO James Gorman. Pick in a statement affirmed the bank's commitment to investment banking and wealth management, as per a Reuters report.

Pick has big boots to fill, taking over the helm from experienced banker Gorman who has served as CEO since 2010, and also led the bank through the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. Gorman will now be executive chairman and may assist with the transition for up to a year, it added.

Inside Man

Pick, aged 54 and with over 30 years of experience at Morgan Stanley, currently heads the institutional securities division, which includes the bank's investment banking and trading unit. He beat internal candidates Andy Saperstein and Dan Simkowitz. in a three-way competition for the role.

In an interview, Pick stated, We have two great businesses, the strategy is intact, there is a change in leadership but no change in strategy."

However, Pick will face challenges in the investment banking sector due to recent difficulties affecting earnings, an investigation by United States regulators into block trading practices, and managing relationships with the two other contenders for the CEO position.

Saperstein, responsible for wealth management, will continue as co-president and head of wealth. He will also take on additional responsibilities overseeing investment management.

Simkowitz, the head of investment management, will become co-president and head of institutional securities.

Notably, the absence of female candidates highlights the diversity gap on Wall Street.

Analysts Speak

Before his current role, Pick served as the global head of sales and trading and played a crucial role in revitalizing the firm's fixed income division, a competence that may be advantageous in the bank's next phase, according to some analysts.

Brian Mulberry, a client portfolio manager at Zacks Investment Management, commented, "The expectation is that the growth of mergers and acquisitions in the next couple of years will be high, and that has been Pick's core competency, so we view it as a good move." He also noted that Pick brings "stability and experience," qualities that the bank had been lacking during the succession discussions.

Gorman had announced his intention to step down within a year in May, and investors had anticipated the announcement of his successor during the bank's October 18 earnings report. The lack of a public plan for the new CEO led to a decline in the stock price, according to one analyst.

Gorman clarified that the bank adhered to its timetable and announced the decision after the October board meeting. The choice was made in October to allow the new CEO to begin in January and get a "running start."

Gorman's Legacy

James Gorman joined Morgan Stanley in February 2006 and became co-president the following year. During the 2008 financial crisis, as the threat loomed over some of Wall Street's major firms, he was in a prominent position alongside then-CEO John Mack.

In January 2010, he was appointed CEO, coinciding with Brian Moynihan becoming CEO of Bank of America. Gorman, along with Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase & Co., steered their respective institutions through the challenges of the financial crisis.

Analysts praised Gorman's significant deals in 2020, which included the acquisitions of discount brokerage E*Trade Financial Corp and Eaton Vance Corp. According to Stephen Biggar, an analyst at Argus Research, "Morgan Stanley is generally in very good shape as left by Gorman." He added, "Large integrations like E*Trade and Eaton Vance are behind it and created some great diversification."

Gorman, known for his love of music and dry sense of humor, grew up in Australia. He earned his bachelor's and law degrees from the University of Melbourne and obtained an M.B.A. from Columbia University. He later became a US citizen.

Ana Arsov, managing director at Moody's, commended Gorman for guiding a traditional investment bank into a dynamic wealth management institution and noted that his succession has been well-planned to facilitate a smooth transition.

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The EU Tax Observatory has recommended that governments initiate a global minimum tax on billionaires as part of international efforts to combat tax evasion, as per a Reuters report. This measure could potentially yield $250 billion per year, it added.

This suggested tax would amount to just 2 percent of the collective $13 trillion in wealth owned by the world's 2,700 billionaires, as reported by the research group located at the Paris School of Economics.

Also Read: How the billionaires income tax would work

Big Disparities

At present, billionaires often pay substantially less in personal taxes compared to individuals with more modest incomes. They achieve this by placing their wealth in shell companies, which shield them from income tax, as highlighted in the 2024 Global Tax Evasion Report from the group.

The EU Tax Observatory's director, Gabriel Zucman, expressed concerns about the impact of such practices on tax systems and public acceptance of taxation, stating that it is difficult to justify these disparities.

In the United States, billionaires' personal tax is estimated to be close to 0.5 percent, and it can even be as low as zero in high-tax countries such as France, according to the Observatory's estimates.

Calls to impose a greater tax burden on the wealthiest citizens are growing due to increasing wealth inequality and the need for public finances to support aging populations, address climate transition, and manage COVID-related debt.

Tax Parity

US President Joe Biden included plans for a 25 percent minimum tax on the top 0.01 percent of income earners in his 2024 budget. However, this proposal has faced delays and uncertainties in the face of government shutdown threats and looming funding deadlines in Washington.

And although the establishment of a coordinated international approach to taxing billionaires could take years, the EU Tax Observatory cited successful instances where governments significantly reduced bank secrecy and curbed opportunities for multinational companies to shift profits to low-tax jurisdictions.

The automatic sharing of account information launched in 2018 has led to a threefold reduction in wealth held in offshore tax havens, as estimated by the observatory.

A 2021 agreement involving 140 countries will impose a global 15 percent minimum corporate tax rate, limiting the ability of multinationals to lower their tax liabilities by booking profits in low-tax nations, effective from the following year.

Zucman suggested that, building on these achievements, the logical progression is to extend a similar approach to billionaires, not only targeting multinational corporations.

What's next?

In the absence of a broad international consensus, Zucman proposed that a "coalition of willing countries" could independently lead the way in implementing a minimum tax on billionaires.

Also Read | ITR filing: How income from stock market is taxed  explained

Despite progress in ending the competition among countries for low tax rates, the report noted that there are still opportunities for tax reduction, such as the wealthy shifting their wealth into real estate and companies exploiting loopholes in the 15 percent corporate tax minimum.

Governments are increasingly vying for investment through subsidies, which, while less detrimental to their tax bases than competing solely on low tax rates, remains a challenge, according to the Observatory.

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NEW DELHI : Domestic steel consumption grew strongly in the first half of the financial year in a clear signal that Indian manufacturing continues on a robust growth path despite global headwinds.

According to the latest steel ministry data, steel consumption in the April-September period of FY24 grew 15% to 64 million tonnes from the year-ago period. In H1 of FY23 too, steel consumption was robust, growing 11.5% to 55 mt rising from 49.7 mt in H1 FY21 when the country was in the grip of second wave of the covid-19 pandemic.

Backed by government of Indias robust infrastructure programme, Indias estimated per capita steel consumption has jumped to 87 kg per capita in FY23 from 77 kg per capita in FY22," steel secretary Nagendra Nath Sinha told Mint earlier.

He said steel consumption also grew strongly by 13% YoY to 119.9m. The World Steel Association projected in April that Indian steel demand is expected to show a healthy growth of 7.3% in 2023 and 6.2% in 2024.

View Full Image Graphic: Mint

We expect that in FY24, Indian steel consumption will grow to 130-132 mt. I am confident India will achieve the target of 158kg per capita steel consumption by 2030-31 as set out in the national steel policy."

The consumption-led growth in the steel sector has been achieved with an equally good performance on production. Provisional data from Joint Plant Committee of the steel ministry indicates that domestic finished steel production in the six-month period of current financial year stood at 66 mt, up by 13.6% from 59 mt in the same period of previous year.

Last year, production growth was just 7.6%, but it has risen sharply in the current fiscal backed by demand from infrastructure sectors amid a pickup in activity after the government raised spending.

Unlike the global economy witnessing a slowdown due to various geo-political situations, India has shown resilience and is moving ahead with the vision of the Prime Minister to make India a $5 trillion economy in the next 3 to 4 years," said Alok Sahay, secretary general, Indian Steel Association. He added that this, coupled with the supporting investment push, is keeping growth robust, driven mainly by infrastructure.

The growth in infrastructure is leading to demand growth in the construction equipments machinery demand, electrical machinery, commercial vehicles, and other associated facilities. Major steel players in India have been investing in new capacities in line with the growing demand. Unlike the rest of the steel- producing countries like Korea and Japan who are export-dependent, Indian producers are focused on the domestic demand," he added.

To be sure, despite strong domestic demand, India has also become a net exporter of steel with the April-September data indicating the country exported 3.2 mt of finished steel. Though down 10% over same period last year, it remained higher than imports of 2.8 mt (up 13.4%) in the H1 period.

On the global front, crude steel production stood at 1256 mt in January-August 2023, registering a growth of 0.2% on-year, according to provisional data released by the World Steel Association. China remained the leader crude steel production with an output of 713 mt in the same period, a 2.6% growth.

India was the second largest producer of crude steel with an output of 92 mt in January-August 2023, showing a growth of 10.5%. Japan was the 3rd largest producer with an output of 58 mt, down 3.8%. With crude steel production of 54 mt (down 1.9% yoy), the US came in at number 4 while with 50.8 mt (up 3.9% yoy) was the 5th largest producer of crude steel.

Finished steel imports were valued at 26,923 crore whereas exports came in at 27,157 crore, putting the trade surplus for the category at 234 crore during April-September 2023.

Volume wise, HR Coil/Strip (1.031 mt) was the item most imported (36% share in total finished steel). Also, China (0.918 mt) was the largest import market for India.

HR Coil/Strip (1.208 mt) was the item most exported (37% share in total finished steel). Italy (0.678 mt) was the largest export market for India.

In a bid to become self-reliant and support Indias growing economy, the steel production capacity is set to increase from the current 126 million tons to 255 million tons by 2030 and eventually to 425 million tons by 2047, according to the steel ministry.

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In February Dilro, an obscure company based in Dubai, bought the Ocean Kapal, an 18-year-old tanker. Since then the Panama-flagged vessel has been given a new name, Abundance III, and a new job. In April the ship delivered its first load of Iranian oil to the port of Dongjiakou in northern China. After completing a similar trip in September, it now lingers off Malaysia, where it may pick up yet another Iranian cargo. The ship is one of many to have recently joined the dark fleet" tasked with moving Iranian oil, exports of which have surged from 380,000 barrels per day (b/d) in 2020 to 1.4m now (see chart).

Although America retains harsh sanctions that target anyone helping to produce, ship or sell Irans petroleum, the superpowers officials last year eased enforcement. They were hoping to clinch an accord on Irans nuclear programmeand, probably, to suppress prices in the run-up to Americas presidential election. The number of people and firms added to Iran-related blacklists by ofac, Americas enforcement agency, has dwindled.

View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist)

Yet since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th, the Biden administration has been under pressure to close loopholes, as Iran is Hamass biggest sponsor and oil proceeds fill the countrys coffers. So far traders seem unfazed: oil sells at $90 a barrel, down from $97 in September. But could a sanction snapback inflame markets?

Start by considering Irans smuggling network, which has become more sophisticated since President Donald Trump put in place fresh sanctions in late 2018. The countrys petroleum business is run by the National Iran Oil Company (NIOC), a state monopoly. Its main customer is Chinanot the countrys large, state-owned firms, which are exposed to Western sanctions, but teapot refineries" that snap up 95% of Iranian supplies. A glut in refining capacity is pushing these outfits to seek the cheapest crude available. Irans trades at a $10-12 discount to the global benchmark, against $5 for Russias as delivered to Chinese ports. The teapots make transactions in Chinese currency, not American dollars, which insulates them from sanctions.

Old tankers, acquired by little-known middlemen, link the ends of the chain. Most would have gone to scrap because blue-chip charterers do not want them. Of the 102 extra-large tankers that have ferried Iranian oil in 2023, 42 did not do so last year and 27 have no history of ever carrying dodgy oil, according to Kpler, a ship-tracking firm. Often they do only a few voyages a year, for just a few years. But those who buy them see a return fast, because clandestine shipping commands extortionate rates.

Ownership is disguised through shell companies registered in places such as China, Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Most of those fingered by Americas Treasury department have Chinese names, suggesting beneficiaries are from the mainland. Some Chinese lenders also appear on its lists, but most are sacrificial lambs" that exist only to import Iranian oil, says Adam Smith of Gibson Dunn, a law firm. Irans government offers insurance.

View Full Image (Graphic: The Economist)

Iranian barrels often begin their journey at Kharg Island, north of the Strait of Hormuz (pictured). A small but growing number also start in Jask, a new port south of the strait. This may become a preferred route, circumventing the crowded Hormuz chokepoint. Transponders are only turned on when ships go through narrow passages, says Homayoun Falakshahi of Kpler, and tankers rarely do the full journey. Some pick up fuel from other ships off the shores of Fujairah, a mega-terminal in the uae, through which a lot of disreputable petroleum, notably Russian, also passes. Many then transfer loads off the shores of Malaysia or Singapore, where smaller vessels take it to northern Chinaoften after being mixed with other crudes from places like Venezuela or mislabelled as a different petrochemical product. There the oil is stored before being transported to its final destination, most often in the coastal province of Shandong (see map).

Many American lawmakers would like their administration to disrupt this trade. New sanctions are unlikelyexisting ones are already comprehensivebut Uncle Sam could dial up enforcement. Would that sink the dark fleet and its enablers?

A number of challenges exist. nioc has no dealings with America or in dollars, so is resistant to pressure. Meanwhile, only Chinas government can hit the teapots, and why would it bother? America would have to squeeze the middlemen. But with so many sanction programmes currently in placethey also target Russia and Venezuelaits capacity is stretched thin. Facilitators are harder to target than under President Trump, when India, South Korea and other countries sensitive to American pressure took part in the trade.

Recent history suggests that companies bashed by America for flouting sanctions rapidly stop doing business, but that others emerge to fill the void. These operators would be all the less deterred given that Iran is blacklisted only by America (in contrast to Russia, whose oil g7 members have all embargoed). The Biden administration could always escalate by seizing Iranian ships en masse at sea, but that would demand huge resources, cause legal headaches and invite retaliation.

Any disruption would thus probably only last for three months or so. Simulations by Rystad Energy, a consultancy, suggest there would be an initial drop of 300,000 b/d in Iranian exports. This lossequivalent to 0.3% of global demandcould push up global oil prices by $4-5.

A more extreme scenario, where rising tensions also mean that shipping is partly disrupted around Hormuz, say, and Gulf states crack down on Iranian helpers, would see another 400,000 b/d of Iranian crude vanish from the market. That would cause a bigger spike in the oil price, of perhaps 10%. But only for a moment.

That is because Irans neighbours could ramp up production. The biggest members of opec, an oil-producing cartel, have 5.5m b/d of spare capacity. In theory, Saudi Arabia could plug the Iranian deficit without help. And opec would have a strong incentive to intervene: stratospheric oil prices would quickly destroy demand.

Therefore it would take an extraordinary series of events for oil to spend much time in the triple digits. America wants to show toughness towards sanction-evaders. This month, for the first time, it singled out two tanker owners for violating Russian restrictions. It is also relaxing sanctions on Venezuela, perhaps in anticipation of a drop in Iranian exports. Yet all this activity belies a simple fact: Irans supply chains are supple enough to be largely immune to American measures.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
Last year, a news article went viral. It stated that as per the Economist, the Indian wedding industry was expected to cross $130 billion.

Well, this wont be astonishing to someone who knows that trying the knot is the fourth biggest industry in India. In fact, its bigger than Indias auto and IT sectorsgrowing steadily every year.

This industry has a fascinatingly diverse ecosystem which works harmoniously to bring everything together on a couples wedding day.

When we think of weddings, we usually think of hotels, food & beverages, jewellery, and apparel. Of course its much bigger than that but its true that just three expenses take up most of the wedding budget of a family. These are the venue, the jewellery, and the clothes.

The big fat Indian wedding usually ends up draining even the fattest wallets. And this great news for companies in this industry. After all, tens of millions of people all over the country, across economic strata, will buy everything needed for a perfect wedding.

So its not surprising that wedding related companies in India listed on the stock market get a lot of attention during the wedding season. This begins around November and extends to April.

In this article, we will look at some of the top wedding stocks in India.

#1 Titan

No surprise here. Titan is usually the first company that comes to everyones mind when thinking about wedding stocks in India.

The company drives close to 90% of its revenue from its jewellery division. It sells jewellery through its brands Tanishq, Zoya, Mia, and CaratLane.

The company's watches also see strong demand as a popular gift during the wedding season.

The company is a leading manufacturer of watches, jewellery, and eyewear in India. It has a 60% share in the organised watch market and is the world's fifth-largest integrated watch manufacturer.

In the second quarter of FY24, the companys results are expected to be strong as people begin their holiday season shopping of which wedding related shopping is a part.

In the first quarter of FY24, the company posted better than expected results. Titan delivered 24.4% increase in revenue year-on-year, with notable contributions from various segments: 25.8% growth in jewellery, 13% growth in watches & wearables, and 11% growth in eye care.

However, despite this robust revenue growth, the operating margins settled at 9.9%, declining by 3% compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

The business has done well in the long term. Sales and net profit grew at a 5-year CAGR of 20.2% and 24.3%, respectively. The RoE and RoCE are good at 5-year averages of 23.9% and 23.5%.

#2 Indian Hotels

Hotels with wedding halls or open spaces, can host multiple weddings on a single day. Weddings are generally preceded and followed by customary ceremonies which too, many a times are hosted at the same location.

Elaborate ceremonies can last up to a week translating to confirmed F&B and room revenues. Over the years, weddings have become a significant contributor to total revenues generated by the hotel industry.

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is Indias largest hospitality company. Its also considered to be among the best hotel stocks in India.

Its iconic brand Taj Hotels was ranked as the world's strongest hotel brands and India's strongest brand across sectors as per Brand Finance, in 2022.

Indian Hotels is on a roll financially, having completely recovered from the covid phase and having reducing its debt to zero in FY23.

The company earned revenues of 59.5 bn in FY23, which was up 85.2% compared to 32.1 bn reported in FY22. Over the past 5 years, its revenue has grown at a CAGR of 6.6%.

The company earned a net profit of 9.7 bn in FY23, compared to a loss reported in FY22. Over the past 5 years, its net profit has grown at a CAGR of 41.2%.

Its margins are also healthy. In FY23 its operating margin 31.1% and net margin was 16.7%.

#3 Vedant Fashions

Vedant Fashions caters to the Indian celebration wear market with a diverse portfolio of brands such as Manyavar, Mohey, and Manthan.

Its one of the most direct plays on the long term growth of the Indian wedding industry. This is because the company has positioned itself nicely to tap into the large and growing demand for wedding finery over the long term, with its strong brand franchise.

The Indian wedding and celebration market is relatively less price-sensitive compared to casual wear. Thus, the company generates very high gross margins with no end of season sale or discounts offered on the MRP.

Its financials are also solid. In FY23 the companys operating income and net profit grew 30.2% and 36.3% over FY22.

The companys return on equity (ROE) and return on capital employed stood at 30.8% and 43.6% during FY23.

The company has no long term debt.

#4 Dixon Technologies

Dixon Technologies is not a name that comes to mind immediately when looking for wedding stocks but it should be.

There is no doubt about the contribution of the Indian wedding industry to this company. Smartphones and consumer electronics are among the most popular wedding gifts in India.

Dixon is Indias largest contract manufacturer of televisions, washing machines, smartphones, LED bulbs, and CCTV security systems. Its clients are companies such as Samsung, Panasonic, Bajaj, and Philips. It has 17 manufacturing units in India.

Dixon is also the biggest manufacturer of LED TVs in India for the likes of Samsung, Panasonic, Xiaomi, TCL, OnePlus, and more. About 15% of all TVs sold in India are assembled by the company.

The company was also in the news recently regarding the governments revised PLI scheme for IT hardware. Dixon is in talks with IT hardware companies based in the US and China for the production of laptops.

Conclusion

Considering thematic stocks like these can be exciting for some investors. They offer the potential for quick returns during a certain time of the year.

However, its important to understand that the stock market doesnt provide easy returns to anyone.

Returns from such themes may not match investors' expectations. Therefore, one must view wedding stocks with the same amount of caution as one would view other stocks.

Also be cognizant of the valuations dear reader. You should not end up buying wedding stocks which have already been priced to perfection.

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
In the world of modern business, data is king. Accurate and timely information can make or break a company's success. It is here that credit and payment reporting platforms take centre stage, becoming indispensable tools for organisations seeking to make well-informed decisions , manage risk, and fine-tune their operations. These platforms offer a window into the business's financial health , its creditworthiness, and its payment history, making them vital in today's fast-paced and fiercely competitive market.

One of the primary ways credit and payment reporting platforms impact business decisions is by providing a comprehensive assessment of a company's creditworthiness. Lenders, investors, and potential business partners use these reports to evaluate the financial stability and risk associated with a business. A strong credit rating can make it easier for a company to secure financing, negotiate favourable terms, and attract investment.

In the complex landscape of business decisions, assessing and mitigating risk is paramount. Credit and payment reporting platforms offer invaluable tools for risk management. By scrutinising a company's credit report, decision-makers can pinpoint potential red flags, such as late payments, collections, or a history of financial instability. These insights empower businesses to make informed choices regarding credit extensions, partnerships, and transactions.

The practice of offering credit to customers is a commonplace for many businesses. Nevertheless, the challenge lies in determining the most suitable credit terms. Credit reports play an indispensable role in this process as well. Companies leverage the information from these reports to define credit limits, establish payment terms, and even decide whether to extend credit at all. This ability to customise credit terms to individual customers is pivotal in cash flow management and reducing the risk of non-payment.

Besides evaluating the creditworthiness of customers, businesses also turn to credit and payment reporting platforms to assess the financial stability of their vendors and suppliers. An unreliable supplier has the potential to disrupt a company's operations, leading to delays and additional costs. By regularly reviewing the credit reports of key suppliers, businesses can spot potential issues and explore alternative arrangements to mitigate risk.

In the realm of risk prevention, these platforms offer a multifaceted approach to thwarting fraud. By verifying the identity and financial stability of potential partners or customers, businesses can substantially reduce the risk of falling prey to fraudulent activities. This aspect is particularly crucial in industries where fraud runs rampant, such as e-commerce, where businesses may interact with customers and suppliers from around the world.

In the fast-paced world of business, time is a valuable commodity. The swiftness and informed nature of decision-making can be a potent competitive advantage. Credit and payment reporting platforms provide an efficient avenue for accessing crucial financial information about other companies. This capability enables organisations to make decisions promptly, whether it involves loan approvals, closing a deal, or entering into a partnership. In the business arena, the speed of decision-making can mean the difference between seizing an opportunity and missing out.

Many industries are bound by stringent legal and compliance requirements. Businesses must ensure they avoid engaging with partners or customers on government sanction lists, among other regulatory obligations. Credit and payment reporting platforms come to the rescue, helping companies screen potential clients or partners to ensure compliance with legal standards, thereby reducing the risk of costly legal issues or regulatory penalties.

In the global marketplace of today, businesses face relentless competition. Smartly harnessing the potential of credit and payment reporting platforms can furnish a competitive edge. By acquiring deeper insights into their customers and competitors, companies can tailor their offerings, pricing, and terms to stand out in the market. This knowledge can effectively attract and retain valuable customers while optimising revenue streams.

Overall, credit and payment reporting platforms have a profound impact on business decisions. Businesses that harness the power of these platforms are better equipped to navigate the challenges of today's economy and position themselves for long-term growth and stability.

Winny Patro CEO & Co-founder, Recordent

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A Bengaluru resident recently discovered that his Uber-bike driver was a former Google employee. Raghav Dua took to social media platform X to share his unexpected encounter with the Googler-turned-driver.

According to Dua, when he booked an bike-taxi service on Uber Moto, the driver who arrived turned out to be a former Google employee. The ex-Google employee had relocated to Bengaluru less than a month ago and had chosen to work as an Uber driver to explore the city. Also read: Google Doodle commemorates Austrian National Day today Dua shared the incident with a tweet, stating, "My Uber Moto driver is ex-google, moved to Bangalore 20 days ago from Hyderabad. He is just doing this to explore the city it seems," wrote Dua." "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 comments section on X was flooded with reactions, with many users referring to the situation as quintessential, where even taxi drivers are well qualified with technological backgrounds. A user stated, Peak Bengaluru moment  a place where even taxi drivers can be former Google employees."

One user said its a productive way to explore a city refering to a similar encounter and said, True, I met a 53 year old ex bank manager from Vishakhapatnam who is now living in Delhi to meet people by riding Rapido, he wants to explore all the places in the city & make documentary on it, tough guy."

Another user commented, That's truly fascinating! I hope you had an interesting conversation during your ride!" wrote one person. Yes, Ive also experienced this personally." A fourth user humorously noted, "In Bengaluru, if you throw a stone in the air, it will either hit a bird or a software engineer."

Similar encounters have happenend a number of times in the past with this adding to the lead of strange encounters of passengers with tech professionals. In August of this year, an engineer in Bengaluru booked a ride on Rapido and was surprised when the rider arrived on a Royal Enfield motorcycle, reported moneycontrol.

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Google Doodle commemorates Austrian National Day today. In 1955, the Austrian Parliament pronounced on the neutrality of Austria by signing Declaration of Neutrality. The declaration was adopted in the form of a constitutional law on this day. Following this, in 1965 October 26th was declared a national holiday" by law.

Also read: A third of smartphone buying likely to be financed this year

The declaration of neutrality was a direct outcome of Austria's occupation by the allied forces including France, the United Kingdom, the United States and the Soviet Union between 1945 and 1955. It is well-documented that Austria's declaration of neutrality played a pivotal role in securing the signing of the Austrian State Treaty with the Soviet Union in May 1955. This treaty paved the way for the withdrawal of all foreign troops from Austria which was completed on October 25 in 1955, reported National Today.

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Following the end of World War II, Austria found itself under the occupation of these four allied forces, each controlling a distinct region of the country. While Austria had a democratically elected parliament, every governmental decision had to receive prior approval from the occupying allied forces. The signing of the Austrian State Treaty on May 15, 1955, marked the official conclusion of the allied forces' occupation.

To celebrate Austrian National Day, citizens are granted free admission to any federal museum and various federal institutions traditionally open their doors to the public on this special day. This provides an opportunity for the people of Austria to connect with their rich history and heritage and also attend military parade. Citizens can also listen to president's address by visiting the Federal Chancellery and Austrian Parliament.

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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 union government has reportedly decided to slash the minimum export price for basmati rice from $1,200 a tonne to $950 a tonne, while Paytm founder and chief executive officer (CEO) Vijay Shekhar Sharma has launched a 30-crore VSS Investments Fund to invest in startups.

Healthy crop

Food production for the year 2022-23 is estimated at 329.7 million tonnes, marking around a 4.5% increase from the previous year, data released by the ministry of agriculture showed. The output of primary cereals such as rice and wheat saw an uptick of 4.9% and 2.6%, respectively, and the production of coarse grains saw a surge of 12%. The record high production was achieved even after subpar rains in rice-growing areas affected 7 million tonnes of kharif rice output.

Vulnerable investors

Retail investors who entered the market in August and September may experience the worst impact if the broader market indices experience a further decline from their current levels, amid the rising bond yields in the US and the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in West Asia, Mint reported. Cumulatively, retail investors have invested 21,900 crore in those two months, after net sales of 21,400 crore from April to July. However, this is in contrast with foreign portfolio investors (FPI) selling 27,800 crore in cash during the two-month period.

AI fund

30 crore: That's the amount in the VSS Investments Fund launched by Paytm founder Vijay Shekhar Sharma. The Category II Alternate Investment Fund (AIF), launched to invest in Indian artificial intelligence (AI) and electric vehicle startups, has a total size of 20 crore and comes with an additional green-shoe option of 10 crore. The Paytm chief said various follow-on investments in the consumer and B2B tech space will also come from this fund.

Urban landscapes

The constantly changing demography of Indian cities, driven by migration and urban development, necessitates the need for robust long-term plans to prepare quality services and sustainable infrastructure. However, a recent Jaanagraha report showed that at least 39% of India's capital cities lacked active spatial plans and only nine had plans for all key urban needs. No state has enforced standardized street design regulations for urban roads or established provisions to prohibit the approval of projects that contravene their urban development plans, the report said.

Hiring freeze

With the information technology (IT) industry facing headwinds from the global growth slowdown, college freshers are likely to bear the brunt as Infosys Ltd and Wipro Ltd, which together hired over 200,000 engineering graduates in the past three years, have said they dont plan to go to the campuses this year. This means that out of the top four IT giants only two will be hiring. The last time such a situation arose was during the global financial crisis in 2008, Mint reported.

Export rethink

$950 per tonne: Thats the new minimum export price (MEP) the government has decided to set for basmati rice, Hindustan Times reported. The Centre had imposed a floor price of $1,200 a tonne for overseas shipments in August to tame domestic prices but traders had complained the decision had made the shipments unviable. MEP is a price threshold below which exporters cant sell to global buyers. India is a leading exporter of the premium aromatic grain, shipping over 4 million tonnes a year.

Attrition woes

Indias top listed companies appear to have been seeing high attrition. The median attrition rate of BSE 100 firms stood at 17% in the year ended 31 March, sharply up from 10% rate in 2020-21 and 15.4% in 2021-22, showed a Mint analysis of annual reports. The case was worse for women, who dropped out more than men. A little over half of the companies have seen two back-to-back years of increasing employee exits, 42% of which have seen the rate rise by over 10 percentage points since 2020-21.

Chart of the week: Pollution pangs

With the temperature dropping, Delhis air quality has once again worsened. However, data on stubble burninga key reason for north Indias polluted air at this time of the year  shows an improvement from previous years.

Follow our data stories on the In Charts" and Plain Facts" pages on the Mint website
Canada's Immigration Minister Marc Miller called India's move to resume some visa services in Canada "a good sign" and said the decision has come after "an anxious time" for many Canadians. His statement came as India resumed issuing visas from Thursday, October 26, to people of Indian origin, and those requiring permits to attend conferences or for business or medical reasons.

According to a press release issued by the Indian High Commission in Ottawa, India resumed services for entry, business, medical and conference visas starting Thursday. "Emergency services will continue to be handled by the Indian High Commission and the consulates in Toronto and Vancouver," it added.

India imposed a ban on visa services in Canada in September after tension between India and Canada escalated following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations against Indian officials over the killing of a Sikh separatist leader.

Trudeau accused India's government of helping orchestrate the killing of a Sikh separatist activist and Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil in June. New Delhi called the allegation "absurd" and retaliated with several measures.

In September, India "suspended till further notice" its visa services in Canada. The country also asked Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic presence and make it equal to the number of Indians who have diplomatic immunity in Canada.

Meanwhile, Canada did not retaliate against India's halting the issuing of new visas for Canadian nationals. India previously expelled a senior Canadian diplomat after Canada expelled a senior Indian diplomat.

Now, in a move that is expected to ease tensions in a high-profile dispute between the two countries, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa said on Wednesday that it has decided to resume visa services in Canada for four categories after a considered review of the security situation which "takes into account some recent Canadian measures in this regard".

Canada's Marc Mille hailed India's move as a "good sign" and was quoted by CTVnews as saying, "Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place."

Besides, Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan also said the resumption of visa processing is good news. He, however, didn't speculate on what message New Delhi was trying to send. In a statement, the Canada-India Business Council said it was "a promising development" for trade.

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China-Russia cooperation not targeted at any third party: premier

Xinhua) 08:21, October 26, 2023

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

BISHKEK, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China-Russia cooperation is not targeted at any third party, nor will it be disturbed by any third party, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Wednesday.

The two sides carry out bilateral cooperation with an aim to benefit their people, promote global development, and uphold fairness and justice, Li said when meeting with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States.

Li said the recent meeting between President Xi Jinping and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, in Beijing has charted a new blueprint and opened up a new vision for the advancement of China-Russia relations.

China is willing to work with Russia to follow the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, continuously deepen cooperation in various fields and push forward the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era, he added.

China, Li said, is willing to further align its development strategies with Russia, promote synergy between the Belt and Road cooperation and the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), maintain the growth momentum of cooperation on trade and investment, deepen cooperation in the field of energy, and enhance connectivity and trade liberalization and facilitation.

China welcomes more high-quality Russian products into the Chinese market and supports enterprises from China and Russia in deepening cooperation on automobile manufacturing, the premier said.

The two sides should jointly make the China-Russia years of culture a success and expand exchanges in education, regions and other fields, he added.

China is willing to strengthen cooperation with Russia within the SCO framework, promote in-depth cooperation in the industrial and supply chains, expand cooperation in industrial manufacturing, green development and digital economy, and provide new driving forces for regional economic growth, Li said.

For his part, Mishustin congratulated China on successfully hosting the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, saying that the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era is at an unprecedented high level.

Russia is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, support each other in safeguarding core interests, promote the alignment of the Belt and Road Initiative with the EEU, and expand cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, energy and connectivity, he said.

Mishustin added that Russia stands ready to make a success of the Russia-China years of culture, deepen cooperation within the SCO, BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, and promote the multi-polarization of the world.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Taiwan enterprises should fulfill their social responsibilities and play an active role in promoting the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, the Chinese mainland's Taiwan affairs authority said on Wednesday as probes of Foxconn Technology Group, a major electronics manufacturing contractor, are being conducted.

The comments came after it was reported on Sunday that Chinese mainland tax authorities are conducting inspections of key enterprises of Foxconn in Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces, while natural resources regulatory departments are carrying out on-site checks of the company's land use in Henan and Hubei provinces.

Responding to the island's Democratic Progressive Party authorities, who called the move a political operation, State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokeswoman Zhu Fenglian said that mainland authorities treat all enterprises equally and conduct compliance investigations in accordance with laws and regulations.

"Our policy stance of respecting, caring for and benefiting our Taiwan compatriots will not change, and we will continue to support Taiwan businesspeople and enterprises who want to invest and operate on the mainland," she said.

Zhu said the mainland will create a favorable development environment and continue to improve policy measures that benefit Taiwan compatriots and companies, providing opportunities and space to aid their development on the mainland.

While Taiwan enterprises enjoy the benefits of substantial growth on the mainland, they should also fulfill their social responsibilities and actively contribute to the peaceful development of cross-Strait relations, she added.

Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry, is a key supplier of Apple products. It has major production bases in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, and Zhengzhou, Henan province.

Liu Xing-ren, an associate professor from the Taipei-based Chinese Culture University, said while achieving development on the mainland, Taiwan businesspeople need to consider the space and opportunities the mainland has offered for them to exert themselves.

The spokeswoman also expressed opposition to any form of military exchanges between the United States and China's Taiwan region, or providing arms to the island by any means.

The remarks came after US President Joe Biden considered a supplemental request of about $100 billion that would include defense aid for Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan, according to a Reuters report last week.

Zhu said: "The act is not like extinguishing a fire but rather adding fuel to it. The facts clearly demonstrate that wherever the US interferes, the people there are likely to be trapped in a war."

DPP authorities in Taiwan who attempt to seek "independence" through military means will only turn the island into a "powder keg" and increase the risk of military conflict in the Taiwan Strait, putting our Taiwan compatriots in a dangerous situation, she said.
Livemint , the official website of Mint, the award-winning business and financial daily published by HT Media Group, has emerged as the fastest-growing news website in the world. It recorded a 49% year-on-year increase in the number of page visits, according to Press Gazette's September 2023 ranking of the top 50 global news websites.

Publisher of popular editions, including the weekend magazine Mint Lounge and the personal wealth brand Mint Money, Mint consistently invests in in-depth reporting, data analysis, and top-notch journalists and expert columnists to power readers' personal growth.

In July 2023, the publication unveiled #AskBetterQuestions, a fresh brand campaign centered around the idea of asking better questions to drive progress. This aligns with HT Media Group's mission to empower, engage, and entertain millions through trusted content every minute, every day. The digital campaign aims to empower readers with thought-provoking ideas and commits to maintaining high reporting standards that address the questions in the minds of the audience.

Mint started its journey with an exclusive collaboration with The Wall Street Journal and was also India's first newspaper to be published in the Berliner format. The editorial coverage and style of presentation is noted for its refreshing clarity and accessibilityfacets that have redefined Indian journalism. One of the stars in its stable is the weekend magazine, Mint Lounge, which focuses on intelligent lifestyle, fashion, food, books, science, and culture; it has won critical acclaim over the years. Mint Money, a personal wealth brand, is known for its unique market insights, which empower personal wealth management and provide valuable financial knowledge about stocks, companies, and investments. Mint also organizes many reputable events all year round, catering to diverse interests and industries such as public policy, marketing, digital innovation, banking, HR, startups, and so on.

Founded as both a newspaper and a website, Mint's iOS and Android apps, along with its website, serve as the forefront of its immersive digital experiences. These include market dashboards, data pages, personalized notifications, daily and weekly videos, podcasts, and newsletters. These offerings have contributed to Mint's evolution as a top digital brand.

In 2020, Mint started a digital subscription program that saw us expand our content offerings to serve the needs of our subscribers. Apart from its distinct brand of journalism, Mint offers multiple digital subscription bundles, including The Wall Street Journal and The Economist.

Press Gazette uses Similarweb data for its US and global top 50 news site ranking stories to compare figures across publishers, who differ in how they measure their own audience data. You can read more about the methodology here.

HT MEDIA More Information

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A court in Qatar has sentenced eight former Indian Navy personnel to death after detaining them for more than a year. The Indian government has expressed its deep shock over the verdict and said it was exploring all legal options. The military veterans had been working for a private firm when they were detained by the Qatari intelligence service on unspecified charges in August last year.

We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options. We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," the Ministry of External Affairs said on Thursday.

According to earlier reports, the group had been accused of spying on a submarine programme on behalf of Israel. Qatari authorities have also indicated that they possess electronic evidence pertaining to the matter.

The Indian nationals had had their first trial in late March. New Delhi had been granted consular access to the eight Indians and had been working to secure their release. An ANI report quoting sources had said in April this year that Indian agencies were providing all possible support to the detained Indians.

The Navy veterans had reportedly been senior employees of Dahra Global Technologies  working on a sensitive project to build midget submarines. According to ANI sources the group charged with spying may have been framed" by Pakistani intelligence agencies.

The detained individuals include Captains Navtej Singh Gill, Birendra Kumar Verma, Saurabh Vasisht, Commanders Amit Nagpal, Purnendu Tiwari, Sugunakar Pakala, Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh.

(With inputs from agencies)

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"Shi Yan 6 was given permission to enter the (Colombo) port for replenishment," PTI quoted Sri Lankan foreign ministry spokesperson.

Shi Yan 6 had been expected to conduct research with Sri Lankas National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), but news agency AP reported that the permission was granted only for replenishment and no research work would be carried out, quoting Kapila Fonseka, spokesman of Sri Lanka foreign ministry.

The particular permission is very clear," he added.

In August last year, a similar visit by the Chinese ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5, to the Sri Lankan port of Hambantota triggered strong reactions from India.

What research Shi Yan 6 was supposed to carry out in the Indian Ocean?

As mentioned earlier, Shi Yan 6 was supposed to conduct a maritime survey in the Sri Lankan Exclusive Economic Zone with Sri Lanka's National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). But the fact is that Beijing is using Shi Yan 6, a dual-purpose vessel, not only for maritime survey but also for seabed survey for future operations of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean.

For the past decade, China has been exploring the Indian Ocean as part of its strategy to expand its sea legs all over the Indo-Pacific region. It is actually carrying out sea-bed research to ensure that sea lanes are created for future expansion of Chinese Navy and events in the Indian Ocean, much to the detriment of India.

Can Sri Lanka say NO to China on docking of Shi Yan 6 at its ports?

Sri Lanka owes $7.1 billion to bilateral creditors, including $3 billion to China. The debt-ridden Colombo has given up its Hambantota port to China as part of the debt equity swap agreement. China accounts for about 10% of Sri Lankas loans, trailing Japan and the Asian Development Bank.

What are India's concerns?

There are apprehensions in India about the possibility of the vessels tracking systems attempting to snoop on Indian defence installations while being on its way to the Sri Lankan port.

Last year Yuan Wang 5, a ballistic missile tracker docked at Hambantota. It is a military surveillance ship and has the capacity to track inter-continental ballistic missiles.

It is supposed that Shi Yan 6 is monitoring and experimenting on the sea bed to see future submarine operations of the PLA Navy. It could happen as soon as 2025.

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Following Russia and China's veto of a US-authored UN resolution condemning Hamas' attacks on Israel, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan argued that these nations might have responded more forcefully if they had experienced a similar massacre.

Erdan said "In Israel, we are fighting for our very survival...If any of your countries endured a similar massacre, I am certain that you would act with much greater force than Israel."

"There would be no question in your mind that such a barbaric slaughter requires a broad military operation against the terrorists who committed such inhumane atrocities to eradicate their terrorist capabilities in order to make sure that such atrocities can never happen again," he added, referring to Russia.

Russia and China on Wednesday vetoed the US-authored draft resolution on the Middle East at the UN Security Council, TASS reported.

The proposed resolution aimed to condemn an attack by the Palestinian movement Hamas on Israel and urged the release of hostages while emphasizing compliance with international humanitarian law. While ten countries supported the resolution, Russia, China, and the United Arab Emirates voted against it, and two other nations abstained from voting, according to TASS.

Erdan said he was shocked by the decision of those who voted against this resolution.

"Those who have voted against the US-led resolution have shown the world that this Council is incapable of doing the most basic task of condemning ISIS-like terrorists and cannot confirm the right to self-defence of the victim of these heinous crimes. Israel has been attacked and continues to be attacked," he added.

Erdan stated further that the Russian resolution voted upon today has sought to tie Israel's hands, "preventing us from eliminating a threat to our existence and permitting the genocidal terrorists to regroup so they can massacre us again".

The absurdity of calling on Israel to rescind the call for temporary evacuation is truly unbelievable and goes against every value that this Council represents, he claimed.

"By demanding Israel call on Gazans to return north, the resolution only serves to maximise civilian casualties, not mitigate them. Why would Israel ask Gazans to return to an active war zone? We cherish life and we are not fighting the Palestinians," Israel's permanent envoy to the UN added.

Also, Erdan thanked the US and every other member of the council for supporting the resolution.

"I would like to begin by deeply thanking the United States and every other member of this council who supported this resolution. Voting for a resolution that clearly condemns savage, genocidal terrorists while standing up for member states' right to defend themselves against terror shows that despite all of the falsehoods spread in the UN's halls, there are still those who stand up for the values of freedom and security," he said.

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India will resume its visa services for Canadians from today, the Indian Embassy in Ottawa announced Wednesday. The a move that could ease tensions in a high-profile dispute over the killing of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.

The Indian High Commission statement said, "After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some of the recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services."

Accordingly, services for entry, business, medical and conference visas will be allowed starting Thursday.

Emergency services will continue to be handled by the Indian High Commission and the consulates in Toronto and Vancouver," it said.

The official said tourist, student, employment, and film visas are yet to be resumed but will be dealt with as the circumstances dictate.

Canada recalls 41 diplomats

The Indian easing of the visa ban Wednesday came days after Canada said it was recalling 41 of its 62 diplomats in India. That decision came after Canada said New Delhi warned it would strip their diplomatic immunity  something Canadian officials characterized as a violation of the Geneva Convention.

However, the Indian government last week rejected any notion that it violated international law in asking Canada to recall diplomats so that both governments have roughly the same number stationed in each country.

Why the visa services were stopped?

Relations between India and Canada soured after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused Indian intelligence of involvement in the killing of Canadian citizen Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim India dismissed as "absurd."

Nijjar, who advocated the creation of a separate Sikh state carved out of India, was wanted by Indian authorities on charges of terrorism and conspiracy to commit murder.

Canada has called for India to cooperate in the investigation into his death and expelled an Indian diplomat.

New Delhi expressed outrage, and reacted by taking countermeasures that included shutting down visa services for Canadians. The Indian government had also advised its nationals not to travel to parts of Canada given the increase in anti-Indian activities."

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Billionaire Leon Cooperman was left fuming this week after Columbia University students led a massive pro-Palestine protest on campus. The hedge fund manager also vowed to stop donations to his alma mater unless there was a 'change' from the administration. The Columbia campus was closed for the public last week after hundreds gathered on the premises for both pro-Israel and pro-Palestine agitations.

"I think these kids at the colleges have s**t for brains. We have one reliable ally in the Middle East  thats Israel. We only have one democracy in the Middle East  thats Israel, okay? And we have one economy tolerant of different people  gays, lesbians, etc. And thats Israel. So I have no idea what these young kids are doing," he told Fox Business during a recent interview.

The CEO of Omega Advisors - who is incidentally of Polish-Jewish descent  said that he had given Columbia an estimated $50 million over the years but would now start patronising other organisations and institutions.

The University has repeatedly made headlines since Israel declared war on Hamas earlier this month  from attacks against students to professors cheering for Hamas. An Israeli student was attacked outside the Columbia's main library following an argument soon after the war began. The University has also refused to comment on a tenured professor who called the Hamas attack on October 7 'awesome'  even as a petition seeking his ouster garnered tens of thousands of signatures.

I mean, war is hell. War is not good for anybody, but to praise what Hamas did is disgraceful, disgusting," the billionaire was quoted as saying.

Israel has launched a series of devastating airstrikes over Palestine and is currently preparing for a ground offensive of Gaza. The war broke out following a deadly Hamas attack that killed hundreds of Israelis  mostly civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Palestinian military group Hamas's armed wing claimed that "almost 50" Israeli hostages were killed "as a result" of Israeli strikes in Gaza, news agency AFP reported on Thursday. The news agency, however, could not immediately verify the claim.

The statement by Hamas came after Israel said its tanks and infantry launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza. Several militant targets were attacked as a wider ground incursion loomed after more than two weeks of war. Follow Israel-Gaza War Updates LIVE upadtes here "Overnight, the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat," the army was quoted by AFP as saying in a statement. "The soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity," it added.

Israel-Hamas war: Where the toll stands

The Hamas-run health ministry said on Thursday that at least 7,028 people have been killed in Gaza by Israeli strikes since October 7 - when the fighting between Israel and Hamas first broke out. Meanwhile, Israeli officials claimed that the ongoing war has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel.

Israel's military also raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, reports claimed. Several foreign nationals are believed to have been captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released so far, news agency Associated Press reported.

ALSO READ: Israel-Hamas War Day 20: Have no confidence in Palestinian death count, says Joe Biden. Top 10 Updates

Israel planning for ground invasion

The Israeli government formally declared war on October 8 after Hamas launched a surprise attack on parts of Israel. Israel had then said it brought in special forces to try to wrest control of four Israeli sites from Hamas fighters.

As the Israel-hamas war rages on, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu vowed to press ahead with plans for a ground war. However, US President Joe Biden said he had asked Israel to delay an invasion of Gaza so that more hostages held by Hamas could be freed. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron said a massive" ground operation would be a mistake, as diplomatic efforts to avert a wider war intensify.

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Israel may postpone a planned ground offensive in Gaza amid growing calls for a pause in fighting. The decision was reportedly taken after a request by the US and will also allow the supply of humanitarian aid to war-hit civilians. The US will reportedly use this time to rush missile defences to the region to protect its troops. The update came even as the US and Russia lead rival calls at the UN for a pause in fighting to allow aid into Gaza.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, US officials believe their forces will be targeted by militant groups once the invasion of the Hamas-ruled Palestine starts. Washington is now hurrying to deploy nearly a dozen air-defence systems to the region  a move that can happen later this week. The missiles would protect US forces in Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Israel has also taken efforts to supply humanitarian aid inside Gaza and diplomatic efforts to free hostages held by Hamas militants into account.

Numerous countries including the US, UK and Russia have called for a halt to the Israeli offensive in Gaza. Political and ideological differences however remained in focus on Wednesday with countries taking varied stances on the matter. The United States for example is seeking short pauses to allow the entry of aid while Russia advocates a wider ceasefire.

Meanwhile British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has backed a humanitarian pause in the conflict while rejecting calls for a ceasefire. Sunak told parliament that Israel has the right to respond militarily to Hamas' earlier attack and stressed the need to help Britons leave Gaza.

NATO ally Turkey took a somewhat different stance and cancelled plans to visit Israel because of its "inhumane" war against Hamas militants in Gaza. The Turkish leader added that he did not view Hamas as a terrorist organisation but as "liberators", fighting for their land, drawing a swift and angry condemnation from the Israeli government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The conflict between Israel and Hamas has now reached its 20th day, marking the deadliest of the five Gaza wars for both sides. Here are the top 10 updates.

Track our LIVE coverage of the Israel-Hamas War here

1. On Wednesday, US President Joe Biden expressed doubt about the accuracy of the Palestinian death toll figures in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip. The Gaza health ministry reports over 6,500 casualties due to Israeli attacks, including approximately 2,700 children. During a White House press conference, Biden was asked whether this death count indicated that Israel was not heeding US appeals to minimize civilian casualties in its bombardment of the coastal enclave.

2. After Russia and China vetoed a UN resolution condemning Hamas' attacks on Israel, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan suggested that these countries might have responded more forcefully if they had faced a similar massacre. Erdan stated, "In Israel, we are fighting for our survival. If your nations experienced a similar massacre, I believe you would respond with greater force than Israel." He added that there would be no doubt that such a barbaric slaughter would require a comprehensive military operation against the responsible terrorists to prevent such atrocities from happening again. Russia and China vetoed the US-authored resolution on the Middle East at the UN Security Council on Wednesday, as reported by TASS.

3. Israel is considering postponing a planned ground offensive in Gaza in response to increasing calls for a ceasefire. This decision, reportedly made at the request of the US, is also aimed at facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians affected by the conflict. During this delay, the US intends to deploy missile defenses to protect its troops in the region. This development comes as both the US and Russia lead separate efforts at the UN to achieve a ceasefire for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Several countries, including the US, UK, and Russia, have called for a halt to the Israeli offensive in Gaza. Nevertheless, there remain political and ideological differences, with varying positions on the matter. The United States is advocating for brief pauses to allow aid deliveries, while Russia is promoting a more comprehensive ceasefire.

4. President Joe Biden voiced his opposition on Wednesday to retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank following the October 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. Biden emphasized, "It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now." He made these remarks at the beginning of a news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was on a state visit to Washington.

5. Japan has called on Israel to temporarily halt its military operations in Gaza to enable humanitarian aid to reach the region, as reported by Reuters. This request was made during a meeting between Japan's State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Israel's ambassador to Japan.

6. Russia has issued a warning that the Israel-Hamas conflict could have wider implications beyond the Middle East due to the continued delay in critical humanitarian aid reaching the besieged Gaza Strip, as reported by Reuters. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed concern that the conflict could escalate beyond the Middle East and criticized the punishment of innocent women, children, and elderly individuals in Gaza for the actions of others. Putin stressed the urgent need to stop the bloodshed and violence, as further escalation could lead to grave and extremely dangerous consequences, not limited to the Middle East region. He made these remarks during a meeting with Russian religious leaders of various faiths, according to a Kremlin transcript.

7. Joe Biden has called for a "path toward peace" to be established once the Israel-Gaza crisis concludes. The US President reiterated support for a two-state solution in the conflict-stricken region and emphasized the importance of integrating Israel among its Arab neighbors, as reported by Reuters. Biden also underscored the unwavering US support for Israel's defense but urged all parties to consider a way forward in the region once the Gaza crisis is resolved.

8. Florida is ordering state universities to ban a pro-Palestinian student organization from campuses for "illegally supporting Hamas". It is a felony under Florida law to knowingly provide material support ... to a designated foreign terrorist organization," State university system Chancellor Ray Rodrigues said to university presidents. Among the student groups in question include 'Students for Justice in Palestine' and 'Palestine Legal'.

9. The United Nations has warned that the Gaza blockade has led to a significant reduction in their fuel supply. This situation may necessitate a substantial reduction in their relief efforts in the region, AP reported. The warning coincided with hospitals in Gaza facing challenges in treating a large number of injured individuals due to depleting resources.

10. On Wednesday, a strike in the Nuseirat refugee camp resulted in the loss of several family members of Wael Dahdouh, one of Al Jazeera TV's correspondents. The Health Ministry in Gaza, under the authority of Hamas, reported that as of Wednesday, the number of Palestinians killed stands at a minimum of 6,546, with 17,439 others wounded. In the occupied West Bank, violence and Israeli raids since October 7 have led to the death of over 100 Palestinians and left 1,650 others wounded, as reported by AP.

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Since its ghastly attack on Israel, Hamas has kept hundreds of Israelis including foreigners captive in Gaza. In a major development, Israeli security forces have roped in spyware firms like Pegasus maker to track hostages in the Gaza strip, reported Bloomberg citing sources.

Along with Israel, countries like Italy and the US are also keen to bring back the hostages before negotiating on ceasefire in the ongoing war. However, firms like NSO Group and Candiro, both of which are blacklisted by the US, are being asked to quickly upgrade their spyware capabilities to meet needs laid out by the country's security forces, four cybersecurity industry sources told BB. The news was also confirmed by an Israeli government official.

The two firms, along with several other software firms, are collaborating on the requests and largely offering their services for free, sources told BB on request of anonymity. Till now there has been no official confirmation by the Defense Ministry on the news. Moreover, the Israeli Defense Forces and NSO also declined to comment.

The other US-blacklisted firm, Candiru, offered to assist the war effort in any way needed, the company said in a statement on Thursday. Hamas militants have held more than 200 people captive in Gaza. The recent level of violence in Gaza has led to broad support for an invasion. Whereas, the Western governments are pushing for more negotiations, and US President Joe Biden asked PM Benjamin Netanyahu to pause the ground offensive for the safety of hostages on Wednesday.

Other hostage rescue possibilities for Israel

Since the beginning of the war, Israel has been trying to bring back hostages via diplomatic routes with the help of Qatar and Egypt. As the efforts are yielding no result, Israel has been discussing other hostage-rescuing possibilities with other governments which have offered intelligence and expertise on how to extract people.

More than half of the hostages have foreign passports, including agriculture workers, visitors, and people with dual citizenship. Four hostages have been freed since the fighting began. The surprise attack by Hamas on October 7 that took lives of more than 1,400 innocent Israelis, mostly civilians. The surprise assault by Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the US and European Union, marked the deadliest-ever strike on Israel.

Since the attack, Israel has responded with heavy air bombardments on Gaza, killing thousands of Palestinians according to the Health Ministry in the Hamas-run enclave. Israel's preparation to launch a ground invasion of Gaza has sparked fear among Palestinians of another ethnic cleansing.

About NSO's Pegasus software

Earlier, the US sanctioned NSO and Candiro for helping authoritarian regimes track journalists and dissidents. NSO's Pegasus software is sold to governments and law enforcement agencies. Governments use this software to hack into mobile phones and covertly record emails, phone calls, and text messages.

Amnesty International, Citizen Lab, and Forensic Architecture in 2021 documented the use of spyware in more than 60 cases to target government critics in countries including Rwanda, Togo, Spain, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Morocco, and India. Several reports also suggested the use of Pegasus software by the Indian government. The US Commerce Department blacklisted NSO and Candiru that year, banning them from receiving export contracts from American companies.

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Mass shootings in the United States are on the rise. The Gun Violence Archive defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more people are injured or killed. The latest mass killing in the US was reported after shots were fired at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine , on Wednesday (local time).

The Lewiston, Maine Police Department has released a picture of the 'suspect' involved in the mass shooting that has left nearly 22 dead and over 50 injured, as per several media reports. As per the police, the suspect is not yet in custody and an active manhunt is underway.

There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals, please call 911," the Maine state police posted on social media platform X earlier.

According to the database, the US has witnessed the second-highest number on record of mass killings and deaths so far in 2023. Only 2019 had more mass killings, AP reported.

Let's take a look at all US mass killings this year

Romeoville shooting: 17 September 2023

A couple, their two children, and three dogs were found fatally shot in their suburban Chicago home.

Ohio shooting: 24 August 2023

Five members of a family, including three children, were found dead at a home in Lake Township, Ohio, by police officers performing a welfare check.

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Oklahoma City shooting: 16 August 2023

Police in Oklahoma City said a 28-year-old man fatally shot three young children  ages 9, 5, and 2  and his estranged wife before taking his own life.

Georgia mass shooting: 15 July 2023

A 40-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting four people, all in their 60s, in a suburb south of Atlanta.

Shreveport, Louisiana shooting: 4 July 2023

Multiple males are believed to have exchanged gunfire at an annual Independence Day block party just before midnight, leaving at least four people dead and at least seven others injured, according to police. .

Philadelphia shooting: 3 July 2023

A 40-year-old man is accused of opening fire randomly with an AR-15-style rifle, killing four people and wounding four others, including a 2-year-old, in a southwest Philadelphia neighborhood.

Green Pond mass killing: 2 July 2023

A 33-year-old man was charged with murder in the killings of his sister-in-law and 11-year-old daughter after authorities found six people dead and one person in critical condition at home while responding to reports of a house fire and stabbings, officials said.

Idaho mass shooting on Fathers Day: 18 June 2023

A 31-year-old man is accused of fatally shooting four members of a neighboring family in their apartment on Father's Day.

Shooting at Tennessee house: 15 June 2023

A 48-year-old man is thought to be responsible for killing himself and five others in a home where police responded to a shooting and arrived to find the residence ablaze, authorities said.

Allen, Texas mall shooting: 6 May 2023

A 33-year-old man with an arsenal of legally purchased firearms killed eight people and wounded seven others at a Dallas-area shopping center.

Lake Wales shooting: 2 May 2023

A 38-year-old man was suspected of fatally shooting a woman and her three children after police were called to an apartment complex where they found the bodies. After an hours-long standoff at a motel, police fatally shot the man.

Henryetta mass murder: 1 May 2023

A 39-year-old man fatally shot his wife, her three children, and their two friends before killing himself, authorities said.

April 30 Mojave quadruple homicide

Four people were found fatally shot inside an RV in a remote Mojave Desert community, authorities said.

2023 Dadeville shooting

Six suspects were charged with reckless murder in connection with a shooting at a Sweet 16 birthday party that killed four people and injured at least 32 others on April 15, 2023 .

2023 Louisville bank shooting

On April 10, 2023, a 25-year-old bank employee armed with a rifle opened fire at his workplace, killing five people while livestreaming the attack on Instagram, authorities said.

Murder-suicide in Miami Lakes home: 10 March 2023

Police found three females and two males dead from apparent gunshot wounds inside a home, officials said.

Mississippi shooting: 17 February 2023

A 52-year-old man shot and killed six people including his ex-wife and stepfather at multiple locations in a tiny rural community, authorities said.

Lunar New Year mass shooting Los Angeles: 21 January 2023

A 72-year-old man opened fire on a mostly elderly crowd at a Lunar New Year dance, killing 11 people and wounding nine.

Goshen, California fatal shooting: 16 January 2023

Authorities announced more than two dozen arrests during a gang crackdown following the fatal shootings of six people

North Carolina shootout: 7 January 2023

A 45-year-old man fatally shot his wife and three children and then himself. Authorities said all five lived together in the home.

Utah killing: 4 January 2023

A 42-year-old man fatally shot his five children, his mother-in-law, and his wife and then killed himself two weeks after his wife filed for divorce.

-With inputs from AP

ATLANTA More Information

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As Israels bombing campaign in Gaza continues, one man has been at the centre of attention  Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, also known as Bibi. Netanyahu has arguably been the central figure in Israels politics since the 1990s. His political longevity and his highly divisive time in office have made him one of Israels most consequential leaders.

What is Netanyahus background?

Born in 1949 in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu spent much of his childhood in Israel and the United States. He returned to Israel and joined the military before serving in Sayeret Matkal, an elite commando unit. His elder brother, Yonatan Netanyahu, became a household name after he was killed leading the famed Entebbe raid to rescue hostages from a hijacked airline in 1976.

Netanyahu rose to prominence in the 1980s as a diplomat. During his spell as Israels ambassador to the United Nations, he was noted for his slick and effective media persona, which he acquired while defending Israels foreign policy in the US and at the UN. He entered politics soon afterwards and rose through the ranks quickly. In 1996 he became Israels youngest ever prime minister and has remained a fixture of national politics ever since.

What does Netanyahu stand for?

Netanyahu has long backed a hardline stance on terrorism and national-security issues. His image as a tough prime minister has been an enduring political asset. His critics, which include former US President Bill Clinton, allege that his hardline policies have reduced space for an understanding with the Palestinians.

His support for illegal Jewish settlements on lands earmarked for an independent Palestinian state have invited much international censure. Yet, his tenure also saw the successful completion of the Abraham Accords, which saw Israel normalise ties with the UAE and Bahrain, and later Morocco. His philosophy of peace through strength" seemed to have earned dividends.

Is he a divisive figure?

His most recent tenure in office has seen a highly charged battle over judicial reforms, which triggered massive protests in Israel. His political bedfellows, including staunchly right-wing parties, were once considered fringe elements before he gave them legitimacy. He has also faced serious corruption allegations. All of this, and his long tenure at the top, have simultaneously made him Israels most divisive and most effective politician.

How will Hamas's 7 October attack affect Netanyahu?

The consensus seems to be that Hamass attack has delivered a body blow to Netanyahus popularity. Everything from his governments failure to find a long-term solution with the Palestinians to the intelligence lapses that led to the Hamas attack have been roundly criticised.

For a politician who has built a reputation for putting Israels national security above all else, the Hamas attacks may prove to be a death blow. Numerous analysts have speculated that Netanyahu will find it difficult to remain in power once the crisis subsides.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his primary objective during the conflict with Hamas as protecting the nation" and indicated that a ground operation to eliminate Hamas will start soon".

Israel-Hamas War LIVE Updates Netanyahu, while addressing the nation said, We are in the middle of a campaign for our existence. We set two goals for the war: to eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governmental capabilities and to do everything possible to return our abductees home. All Hamas members are mortals - above the ground, underground, inside Gaza, Outside Gaza." He stressed that what stands before our eyes is only one thing - saving the country , the achievement of victory". The conflict between Israel and Hamas has now reached its 20th day, marking the deadliest of the five Gaza wars for both sides. The Gaza health ministry reports over 6,500 casualties due to Israeli attacks, including approximately 2,700 children. Also Read: 'My instinct tells me' Joe Biden says progress on economic corridor as factor in Hamas' attack on Israel Israel PM said, When we enter Gaza, in the continuation of the fighting, we will collect the full price from the murderers - the perpetrators of the horrific atrocities of Hamas-ISIS."

Speaking on the military arrangements, Netanyahu said that since the beginning of the war, Israel has established 600 new standby classes. Also with many shipments of weapons that we bring from abroad, we will add more forces to this effort. We encourage citizens and help citizens to arm themselves with personal weapons for protection. We do this in a controlled manner."

Also Read: What is two-state solution to end Israel-Hamas war? Explained

The PM added, "All Hamas members are dead men walking -- above and below ground, inside and outside Gaza. Together with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, Minister Benny Gantz, the security cabinet, the chief of staff and heads of the security organizations, we are working around the clock in order to achieve the war aims until victory, and doing so without political considerations."

After Russia and China vetoed a UN resolution condemning Hamas' attacks on Israel, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan suggested that these countries might have responded more forcefully if they had faced a similar massacre.

Also Read: Israel-Hamas War Day 20: Have no confidence in Palestinian death count, says Joe Biden. Top 10 Updates

Erdan stated, In Israel, we are fighting for our survival. If your nations experienced a similar massacre, I believe you would respond with greater force than Israel."

Netanyahu stressed, We are enlisting the support of world leaders to continue the campaign. Many of them understand today what we have been telling them repeatedly since 2014: Hamas is ISIS - and ISIS is Hamas."

Meanwhile, the US intends to deploy missile defences to protect its troops in the region. This development comes as both the US and Russia lead separate efforts at the UN to achieve a ceasefire for humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

He said that Israel's war with Hamas is a test for all humanity. This is a struggle between the evil axis of Iran-Hezbollah and Hamas and the axis of freedom and progress. We are children of light, they are children of darkness, and the light will overcome the darkness.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A significant manhunt is currently in progress for a gunman who, according to a local official, has killed a minimum of 22 people and injured numerous others in mass shootings in the US state of Maine, as per an AFP report. This is the deadliest such incident this year.

Suspect Identified

The suspect, Robert Card, was captured on CCTV footage wielding a semi-automatic weapon with an extended clip as he entered a bowling alley in Lewiston. Authorities have deemed him "armed and dangerous."

Notably, Card is a certified firearms instructor and a member of the US Army Reserve, as reported by CNN, citing law enforcement sources.

Also Read: Maine mass shooting live updates: 22 people died, 50-60 wounded in Lewiston

The police have released several photos of Card at the bowling alley, where he appears composed while entering with his raised rifle. They urge the public to contact law enforcement if they have information on his whereabouts.

Maine public safety official Mike Sauschuck informed the media that a large number of police officers are actively working throughout the state to investigate the case and locate Card.

Law enforcement officers had also located a "vehicle of interest" they were searching for in the town of Lisbon, approximately eight miles from Lewiston, but Card was not found in the vehicle.

What happened?

The police and first responders arrived at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley around 7:15 pm local time in response to an active shooter. Reports later indicated another shooting at the Schemengees Bar & Grille, as per the Sun Journal local newspaper.

Lewiston, the second most populous city in Maine, is situated about 30 miles north of the largest city, Portland.

Large portions of Lewiston were placed under lockdown, with businesses advised to close, and residents told to stay in place.

US President Joe Biden reached out to Maine's governor, its two senators, and a local congressman, offering federal support during a state dinner honoring Australia's prime minister.

Also Read: Lewiston, Maine mass shootings: List of mass killings in the United States since January 2023

America's Gun Violence Problem

The United States has witnessed over 500 mass shootings this year, based on data from the Gun Violence Archive (GVA), an organisation defining a mass shooting as an incident where four or more people are wounded or killed.

The recent attack in Maine is, unfortunately, the deadliest mass shooting in 2023, as reported by the GVA.

Efforts to strengthen gun control measures have faced opposition from Republicans who strongly support the constitutional right to bear arms. This political stalemate continues despite widespread outrage over recurring shootings.

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Remember Lotus 1-2-3? Maybe not, and I dont blame you. After all, nearly half this country wasnt born when Lotus 1-2-3 finally died. It was a wildly popular spreadsheet programme in the 1980s and 1990s. By the time the new millennium rolled around, it had been supplanted by Microsoft Excel.

This is not a lament for a program I never used. Instead, consider this. The first version of Lotus 1-2-3 appeared in 1982. Its size was 359.56 kilobytes, or kb. The last version was released in 1999. Its size was 230.82 megabytes, or mb. That is, in 17 years, Lotus 1-2-3 grew over 640 times larger.

Was it over 640 times more useful, or efficient? Hard to sayI never used it, remember? But I suspect the answer is no". It may have had more features, but I really doubt its basic spreadsheeting functions qualitatively improved by a factor of 640.

Still, thats not the point I want to make. Here was a piece of software that inflated like a balloon in those years. What happened to hardware in that time?

One broad-brush metric to measure that is the well-known Moores Law. It says that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles every two years.

Moores Law has held for well over half a century now, though chip designers keep thinking they may be running up against molecular limits. In any case, the implication of the Law is that the speed and storage capacity of computers will doubleor get close to itevery two years.

Apply that to the 17-year life of Lotus 1-2-3. Doubling every two years through that time means about a 500-fold expansion. That is, in that much time, storage capacity of computers multiplied 500 times, and similarly for their speed. Thats a huge increase.

Yet, one of the worlds then-best-known pieces of software, Lotus 1-2-3, outstripped that with its own expansion: a factor of 640 versus a factor of 500.

Which, to folks who write software or build computers, isnt really a surprise. They know that in general, software grows faster than hardware does. There are reasons for this software bloat". More and maybe unnecessary features is one. But also, with cheaper and faster memory, programmers have little incentive to care about something that all of us computer science students paid attention to a generation ago. Thats garbage collection", meaning careful and optimum use of computer memory. The increasing capacities of the computers RAM and storage," a 2016 article in PCMag remarks, allow programmers to be much less concerned with conservation."

No wonder software packages such as Lotus 1-2-3 or more recent ones, and the computers they run on, rarely seem to actually feel" faster, even though hardware capacity and speed increases exponentially. Software simply bloats to fill that expanded capacity. Theres even Wirths Law, an informal but telling principle computer scientists cite to explain this: software becomes slower more rapidly than hardware becomes faster.

If that gives you some food for thought, it may occur to you that this phenomenon isnt restricted just to software and computers. I remember thinking, when I got a raise at work once, OK, finally Ill feel less like Im living on the edge!" Yet, my expenses found ways to rise, too, quickly accounting for my increment.

And then there are roads and cars.

Not long ago, we heard from Nitin Gadkari, minister for road transport and highways, that Indias road network increased in size from 91,287 km in 2013-14 to 145,240 km in 2022-23. Thats a 59% increase in nine years (https://t.ly/ujTAV). There are questions to ask about this, but lets for now take it at face value. Also, these numbers refer to highways, but there have been dramatic increases in road networks in our towns and cities, too. For example, Wikipedia tells us that urban roads went from 252,001 km in 2000-01 to 544,683 km in 2020-21; and rural roads went from 1,972,016 km to 4,535,511 km in the same time. Both are better than twofold increases, in 20 years.

Impressive? Undoubtedly. Yet, think of this: We have built flyovers and high-speed corridors and a sea link and highways and so onall promising faster commutes for most of us. But it still takes me a minimum of an hour to drive from my Mumbai suburb to Nariman Point. That is how long it took to drive that distance in the early 1990s, before the sea link, before the flyovers. Despite promise, despite new infrastructure, why has commuting time stayed the same in these 30 years?

The answer lies in certain other numbers that have also risen. How many vehicles use those roads, and how fast are they multiplying? That is actually hard to pin down precisely, because sometimes youll see data about passenger vehicles", other times four-wheelers" and the like. Still, theres data saying the number of registered vehicles" (defined as all registered vehicles minus registered two-wheelers) in India was 82.6 million in 2019, an 11% increase from 2018. That followed 6.7% and 5.5% increases the previous two years (https://t.ly/Vwyau). Take the middle of those three increases and apply it, post 2019: a steady 6.7% annual increase gives us 107 million registered vehicles on our roads today. Those, and the subtracted two-wheelers, use our road network in 2023.

But lets compare this rise to the road network increase above. Over nine years, a steady annual 6.7% increase will amount to a 79.26% jumpeasily outstripping the highway increase of 59% cited earlier. And over 20 years, we get a 3.66-fold jumpagain easily outstripping both the urban and rural road expansions.

That is, even a relatively conservative estimate of the way vehicle counts are rising on our roads shows that it beats the pace at which we expand our road network. No wonder driving into town takes about as long as it did 30 years ago. Because as fast as we build new roads, they fill with vehicles even faster.

The same lesson as with software. The lesson cities around the globe have learned. Bloat happens. So, no amount of new roads will ever bring us better commutes for the majority.

If we truly want better commutes for the majority, theres this: Focus on public transport.

Once a computer scientist, Dilip DSouza now lives in Mumbai and writes for his dinners. His Twitter handle is @DeathEndsFun.

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Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, Oct. 24

Political opposition has become a learned reflex. Whatever youre for, Im against. End of story. But the fact that this same political reflex kicked in hours after Hamass videotaped mass slaughter of innocents on Oct. 7the assertion that somehow Israel drove Hamas to do itbegs for examination.

There was a time years ago when one explanation would be that people werent fully aware of the scope or physical details of such mass killings. Consider the difficulties at the start of World War II to convince some in the West, notably in the U.S., that a plan to exterminate Jews was under way in Germany and Poland.

Today omnipresent mass media and personal video make it impossible to be ignorant of atrocities of the sort that occurred in southern Israel. There is no excuse not to know the details. A striking summing-up of all we have seen and heard was given on Fox News by an Israeli worker still recovering bodies. Im a child of Holocaust survivors," she said, and I grew up hearing stories of the camps. I thought those were the worst stories. These stories are worse."

A question that persisted for days was: What did Hamas hope to achieve with what obviously would be seen as a coldly conceived plan to commit unspeakable atrocitiesother than the killing of Jews?

The answer has emerged in the days since Oct. 7. It was in great part about the messaging.

Messaging" has become an everyday word normally associated with branding campaigns. Messaging is an enormous industry whose purpose is to shape public opinion. Ultimately messaging is a euphemism for propaganda, a practice often correctly associated with the Nazis Joseph Goebbels, the Reichs minister of propaganda. Goebbelss job was to manipulate the media of the time, newspapers and film, to portray Nazism favorably.

It is clear now that a primary Hamas goal was to elicit an overwhelming Israeli military response directed at Gaza itself, with Gazan civilian deaths expected. Hamas knew that an Israeli reaction to the atrocities, such as its current bombing of Hamas sites inside Gaza, would in time produce a counterreaction in Europe and the U.S. That is starting to happen.

A pivotal messaging event was the Oct. 17 bombing" of al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza. It has since been established, including in a video analysis by this newspaper, that Israel didnt bomb the hospital. Note, though, how quickly the blame-Israel assumption fell into place among major news outlets. It mattered that Israels role in this bombing was disproved. But what mattered to Hamasvia the incredible Palestine Ministry of Healthwas establishing that initial assumption. Israel was already being pushed off the moral high ground.

At this point, events quickly arrived at a familiar juncture. The media and some world governments were beginning to balance" the story. In the past 20 years or so, the U.S. press has adopted the belief that it is obligated to give equal space to groups or movements asserting claims of injustice. Everyone in the political messaging business understands how justice claims drive coverage. Hamass massacres, while still being reported, are now being balancedmeaning dilutedby the constant narrative of concern for the Palestinians. However sincere that concern, Hamas and Tehran couldnt care less.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin surely saw this inevitable balancing of blame coming when he said while in Israel just after the massacres that this was no time for false equivalence." It remains to be seen if the Biden administration, especially the White House, can hold the line against false equivalence.

Hamass release this week of several of its some 200 hostages appears to be primarily another messaging exercise. Hopes raised, Hamas will negotiate for weeks as the wind ebbs behind Israels world-opinion sails.

U.N. Secretary-General Guterres gave a speech Tuesday condemning both Hamas and Israel and called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire." State Department spokesman Matthew Miller rightly said a cease-fire would give Hamas the ability to rest, to refit, and to get ready to continue launching terrorist attacks against Israel." But a weather vane like Mr. Guterres shows which way the wind is blowing. It is up to President Biden to resist the inevitable conventional wisdom that both Hamas and Israel bear responsibility for any deaths that occur now. From there we move to the familiar modern policy goal known as stop the killing." When that moment arrives, Hamas wins.

Also let off the hook will be the American leftthe Squad and the students and professors whose reflex in the face of the bloodletting was to defend or justify Hamas. That fell outside even the elastic norms of balancing," so theyve since evolved into a more generic pose of concern for Gazas civilians. And a pose it is. Whether protesting for Palestinians or any other aggrieved group, the left sustains the conceit that their empathy carries greater moral authenticity than that of their opposition. One thing we learned from Israels killing fields is what a fraud that is.

Write henninger@wsj.com.
The Maharashtra Ministry of Labour and Employments decision to look into a complaint filed by a Pune-based Information Technology employees union regarding the issue of delayed onboarding of recruits offers a window of opportunity to re-examine this issue which has assumed large proportions after the pandemic-induced slowdown cooled IT Inc.s hiring spree.

Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES), in its complaint, has highlighted the "delayed onboarding" of about 200 lateral hires by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), who, the union alleged, had been left stranded and jobless" after the IT major failed to follow through its offer of employment with an actual job, according to a report in the Mint.

"Delayed onboarding" refers to companies not transitioning their job offers into actual, salaried positions. This issue surfaced after the Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted businesses globally. Though there was an increase in IT spending due to the new remote-working norm, it led to a churn in the kind of skills and talent required.

Post-pandemic, with slowed growth in the US and EU and reduced IT budgets, India's $220 billion IT industry has faced challenges. JP Morgan has forecast a washout year" with no discernible uptick" in new deal signings seen this year.

In fact, most IT majors, have warned that their global clients have been cutting IT spends, while delaying or cancelling ongoing contracts. This has had a knock-on impact on hiring.

Not that overall hiring has dropped. In fact, according to industry body NASSCOM, Indias IT sector continues to be a net employer, with a current employee strength of over 5.4 million, with 290,000 new jobs created in FY23. But there has been a significant drop in hiring at the fresher level, with staffing services firm Teamlease predicting a 30% drop for the current fiscal ending March 2024.

While thousands of offer letters have been issued, there has been considerable delay in these firms converting their offers to actual jobs. There are no consolidated figures for the number of hires actually left in the lurch, but social media is awash with complaints from stranded candidates. A poll of members by NITES found that 90% of respondents had faced delays in onboarding, by as much as a year or more.

Delayed onboarding falls into a legally grey area. Technically, an offer letter is a statement of intent, not an actual employment contract. However, once an offer letter is accepted by a candidate within the stipulated period, it becomes a legally enforceable promise under Indian contract law. But most jobseekers -- fresh graduates or experienced professionals -- seeking employment have neither the means, nor the courage to legally take on defaulting employers, fearing getting blacklisted, or negative impact on their future careers.

Employers, of course, have the right to withdraw offers, specially if the potential recruit has misrepresented information about qualifications, experience, salary or other details. However, leaving candidates hanging after making an offer falls between the cracks as far as the law is concerned. It is this gap which may be tested by the Maharashhtra labour department, if it decides to take up the NITES complaint.

The ethicality of delayed onboarding, however, is a different matter altogether. It is patently unfair, as it puts the cost of the erroneous hiring call made by the employer on the potential employee. While business conditions change constantly, forcing changes in business strategy, it is up to the employers to gauge this accurately and decide on how much hiring they need to do. If they make an error in this assessment, the cost of this error  as in all business decisions which go wrong  ought to be paid by the one who commits the error.

Indias IT sector have led the way in transparency and professionalism in Indian business. They have led India Inc in professionalising work practices and work conditions for their staff. With 2 million women employees, IT Inc has also blazed the path on gender equity in the workplace. It would be a pity to tarnish this excellent track record with the dubious practice of delayed onboarding, which unfairly penalises those with the least agency. If industry fails to do so voluntarily, our lawmakers should seek to plug the gap.
WASHINGTONThe House is back open for business. But getting legislation through itmuch less agreeing with the Democratic Senate and President Bidenwont be easy for brand-new Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, with major deadlines less than a month away.

After 22 days of GOP infighting, the Louisiana Republican secured his post Wednesday without any opposition from his fellow House Republicans. That unity will be tested soon, with lawmakers facing a slew of policy and political challenges, including a government funding deadline in three weeks, aid requests for Israel and Ukraine and a farm bill that has already expired.

It will mark the first time that Johnson, who until recently was the vice chair of the House Republican conference, will be the top negotiator with Democrats on behalf of a group of Republicans still divided over both ideology and political tactics.

In terms of being able to effectively legislate in divided governmentthat part of this job is going to make getting elected speaker look kind of easy," said Rep. Steve Womack (R., Ark.), a longtime member of the House Appropriations Committee, which writes spending bills.

The most immediate deadline facing Johnson is the expiration of the governments current funding on Nov. 17. In a letter sent to House Republicans earlier this week, Johnson mapped out a timeline for immediately bringing the GOP-crafted spending bills that havent yet passed the House up for votes.

But because the House will need to reach an agreement with the Senate and White Housewidely seen as infeasible for all 12 bills within the next three weeksJohnson said House Republicans may need to buy themselves more time by passing a stopgap spending measure that would continue current funding levels either into mid-January or mid-April, depending on Republicans preference. The goal would be to eliminate the year-end pressure that often compels Congress to pass a massive spending package in a rush before Christmas.

We all understand that our next Speaker must be prepared to negotiate from a position of strength with the Democrat-controlled Senate and White House," Johnson wrote in the letter.

Such stopgap measures have been fiercely opposed by the hard right flank of the House GOP conference, fueling some of the anger toward former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R., Calif.), who was ousted earlier this month after passing the most recent short-term spending patch to avert a government shutdown.

View Full Image The House passed a resolution affirming support for Israel on Wednesday. PHOTO: AMMAR AWAD/REUTERS

Many lawmakers believe Johnson will have a little more leeway next month with conservatives who celebrated his ascension to power this week.

Rep. Chip Roy (R., Texas) said he would be open to a short-term spending patch in service of a longer-term goal of reducing federal spending. It just depends on how its structured, framed and whether its tactical," he told reporters.

While some lawmakers held out hope they would be able to pass and negotiate individual spending bills before the mid-November deadline, others acknowledged that was likely unrealistic.

If you think somehow were going to be able to wrap everything up in three weeks-ish, yeehaw. God bless you," said Rep. Mark Amodei (R., Nev.) If you really want to act like the majority over here, part of that is calendar realities."

Democrats said that so far, the individual spending bills passed with GOP support in the House arent getting them closer to a viable bipartisan compromise.

Theres a view that we can do these individual bills the way we were doing before this chaosI think thats futile," said Rep. Rosa DeLauro of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee. DeLauro said there wasnt enough time to deliberate on each individual bill. That ship sailed, my friend."

One unusual dynamic that could complicate spending negotiations is a provision included as part of last summers debt limit deal that says if the government is being funded by a stopgap spending measure on Jan. 1, automatic across-the-board cuts known as a sequester would kick in, hitting the military hard. The provision would cut current spending by 1% beginning in April 2024.

Johnson will also have to contend with complicated intraparty dynamics in navigating the Biden administrations request for $106 billion in emergency funds for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan and the U.S. border. There is broad bipartisan support in Congress for aid to Israel, following the deadly attacks by Hamas earlier this month. The first measure Johnson brought to the House floor Wednesday was a resolution affirming support for Israel and condemning Hamas that passed 412-10.

But some Republicans are skeptical of new funding for Ukraine, and have suggested it may need to be paired with tighter border security and changes to immigration policy. Johnson voted against $300 million in security assistance to Ukraine in September.

I believe that he will get to Ukraine aid, but its going to come at some hard negotiating," said Rep. Don Bacon (R., Neb.) The presidents going to have to make his case."

The White House separately requested on Wednesday additional funding, including $23.5 billion in disaster relief for the Maui wildfires, floods in California and Vermont and other natural disasters.

The five-year farm bill, meanwhile, lapsed at the end of September. Johnson in his letter said he hoped to pass the farm bill in December and begin negotiations with the Senate as soon as possible.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn Thompson (R., Pa.) said he hoped to pass the next full five-year bill then. Many other lawmakers expect Congress will have to pass an extension of current farm bill programs while they hash out both internal disagreements over spending levels and partisan fights over contentious programs like food assistance.

A budget blueprint from the time when Johnson chaired the Republican Study Committee, which represents a spectrum of House conservatives, proposed saving billions by cutting spending on programs designed to help support farmers who grow major commodities.

Agriculture is very important in Republican districts," said Rep. Frank Lucas (R., Okla.), a former House Agriculture Committee Chairman, noting he was confident Johnson would take a different approach now. Its one thing to be the leader of a particular niche group here in Congress. Its another thing to be a leader of the United States House."

Write to Kristina Peterson at kristina.peterson@wsj.com and Lindsay Wise at lindsay.wise@wsj.com
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee likened the BJP to Muhammad bin Tughluq and British colonialists during an address on Thursday. She accused the BJP of playing a dirty game ahead of elections and opined that the Enforcement Directorate was torturing people in the name of probes. The remarks came even as the ED led raids at TMC minister JyotiPriya Mallick's home in connection with a ration distribution case.

Enforcement Directorate is torturing people in the name of probes and raidsTMC minister Jyotipriya Mallick is unwell. We will lodge FIR against BJP if anything happens to him during the ED raids. I want to ask whether there has been a single ED raid at any BJP leader's residence," Banerjee said.

The ED conducted searches at the minister's home on Thursday in connection with an alleged case of corruption in ration distribution.

ALSO READ: TMC threatens to resume MGNREGA protest if no response from Centre by Oct 31

Banerjee also lashed out at the BJP for attempting to change the countrys history by taking a series of ill-conceived decisions  including demonetisation and introduction of GST. She also compared the other party to whimsical Delhi Sultanate ruler Muhammad bin Tughluq and British colonialists during abrupt press conference at her residence.

Kya atyachar, kya anachar chal raha hai? BJP is playing a dirty game in the name of ED raids on opposition leaders across the country ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. BJP says it wants Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas, but actually means Sabka Sath Sabka Satyanash," she added.

The senior politician also addressed recent reports about the NCERT changing India to Bharat in school text books and the omission of Rabindranath Tagore's name from plaques in Santiniketan.

We will launch agitation if plaques without Tagore's name continue to remain in Santiniketan. Tagore built Visva-Bharati, yet no mention of him on plaques on the varsity getting UNESCO heritage status," she warned.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinas jet fighters are harassing American military aircraft and stepping up sorties around Taiwan. Its coast guard is confronting a U.S. security treaty ally in the South China Sea, leading to a recent collision.

Amid the tensions, talks between the U.S. and Chinese militaries remain largely frozen, which leads Washington to worry that a misstep could trigger a dangerous escalation.

The latest flashpoint is a clash between the Philippines and China over control of a reef in the South China Sea that could draw in the U.S. to defend its ally.

If Manila requests American support for this mission, it brings into the picture a more serious Chinese challenge of American ships or aircraft," said Zack Cooper, a former Pentagon official.

Scenarios could include a Chinese ship using a military-grade laseras has happened against a Philippine shipor locking its missile-targeting radar on a U.S. aircraft as a warning, according to Cooper, now a security analyst at the American Enterprise Institute, a Washington think tank.

President Biden said Wednesday that the U.S. stood by its legal commitment to defend the Philippines.

There are few active military communication lines between the U.S. and China, making it harder to coordinate a mutual effort to dial down tensions.

China cut off high-level military talks with the U.S. in August 2022 in response to the visit to Taiwan by then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Among the casualties were annual talks at which American and Chinese military officers discussed ways to ensure safe military encounters at sea and in the air, a forum known as the Military Maritime Consultative Agreement that had been active since 1998.

Beijing also suspended a channel between the Pentagon and the Chinese military called the Defense Policy Coordination Talks that had been used to foster cooperation and discuss crisis management.

Adm. John Aquilino, the head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said recently that he has sought talks with his Chinese counterparts for 2 years without having a request accepted.

In its latest annual report on the Chinese military, the Pentagon said the absence of communication raises the risk of an operational incident or miscalculation spiraling into crisis or conflict."

From Chinas perspective, that may be exactly the intention. Chinese military scholars say Beijing wants the U.S. to feel the danger of taking what China sees as provocative actions such as flying and sailing close to Chinese territory or areas over which China seeks to exert control.

If on one hand you put too much pressure on me with so much aggressive behavior, and on the other side you say, OK, please come out and we will talk about guardrails or crisis management, it doesnt make sense," Senior Col. Zhao Xiaozhuo, a senior fellow at Chinas Academy of Military Sciencesa research institute controlled by the Peoples Liberation Army, as Chinas military is knownsaid in June.

If I talk with you, that will legitimize your aggressive behavior," Zhao said.

U.S. officials are hopeful that a shift by Chinese leader Xi Jinping to re-engage over diplomacy and economic policy could lead to progress in the military sphere. On Thursday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is set to arrive in Washington for talks with Secretary of State Antony Blinken that may pave the way for a visit by Xi to the U.S. in November.

Biden administration officials say Blinken will raise actions by Chinas military in the East China Sea and South China Sea that the U.S. considers provocations.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon plans to send officials to an annual security conference in Beijing next week known as the Xiangshan Forum, where U.S. defense officials have in the past held talks with their Chinese counterparts.

In terms of hopefully kind of kick-starting some of the military-to-military engagements, yes, Im hopeful that well have an opportunity to do that in the coming months," said Michael Chase, deputy assistant secretary of defense for China, this week in response to a question about the Xiangshan Forum.

Chad Sbragia, who attended the forum in 2019 as Chases predecessor, said he had a range of meetings with his counterparts, including Wei Fenghe, Chinas defense minister at the time.

Sbragia said Beijing could still move to rebuild ties even in the absence of a defense minister. Li Shangfus removal from the post was confirmed by Beijing this week without explanation.

If China names a successor in time, the new minister might have an opportunity to meet Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin at a regional defense ministers summit meeting in November in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The key now will be to see if initial outreaches can mature into substantial exchanges," Sbragia said.

Write to Alastair Gale at alastair.gale@wsj.com
Village of Lake Hallie police officers were injured Wednesday by a Cameron man who allegedly caused $9,500 damage to a vehicle, then fought with officers and resisted arrest.

According to a press release by Lake Hallie police chief Edward Orgon, village police were dispatched to the 4200 block of 119th Avenue for a man who had been drinking and damaging vehicles. An officer observed a man who fit the description walking on the 40th Avenue bridge over Highway 53.

While speaking with Michael Ludwigson, 37, of Cameron, the officer learned he was intoxicated and under the influence of illegal narcotics, Orgon stated.

Orgon stated that Ludwigson provided the officer with suspected marijuana and suspected smoking devices from his lunchbox but continued to hold a bottle of whiskey in his hands and refused to give it to the officer.

Officers attempted to arrest Ludwigson for criminal damage to property when it was learned that Ludwigson had allegedly caused damage to vehicles nearby.

Ludwigson refused commands to comply and was taken to the ground, where he continued to fight with officers and refused commands to stop resisting, the release states.

Ludwigson used derogatory names toward officers and continued to swear at officers. During the arrest, Ludwigson spit, clawed, kicked at officers, bit an officer in the leg and was subsequently Tased as he continued to resist arrest and was eventually handcuffed, Orgon stated. Once EMS arrived on scene, Ludwigson continued to resist and spit on EMS personnel and was given medication to help calm him down.

Ludwigson was transported to the hospital for observation. During the incident, officers received minor injuries, Orgon stated.

Once released from the hospital Ludwigson was transported to the Chippewa County Jail and faces possible charges of felony criminal damage to property, resisting arrest, two counts of battery to a public officer, two counts of discharge of bodily fluids at a public safety officer, two counts of misdemeanor criminal damage, possession of THC and possession drug paraphernalia.

According to Wisconsin Circuit Court records, Ludwigson was convicted of eluding an officer and operating a vehicle with a revoked license in 2022 and disorderly conduct and domestic abuse in 2018.
The eagerly awaited India Mobile Congress 2023 event is scheduled to commence on October 27, 2023 in Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will kick off this three-day event, as revealed by the Department of Telecommunications on the X social media platform.

India Mobile Congress 2023 promises to be a focal point for innovation, knowledge exchange, and networking, making it an essential event for those engaged in the telecom and technology sectors. As per a release by PIB, the event is a collaborative endeavor between the Department of Telecommunications and the Cellular Operators Association of India, and it will be held at Pragati Maidan, Delhi. This year marks the seventh edition of IMC, and it is anticipated to attract a large audience, with around 100,000 attendees. Additionally, over 1,300 delegates and 400 speakers from 31 countries will join, turning it into a worldwide tech spectacle. 3 Days to be at the forefront of Asias largest tech event! Experience the next era of technology, from core chips powering our devices to the skies with drones. Join us on 27th-29th October23 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi," wrote India Mobile Congress in its post on X.

A significant inclusion in this year's IMC is the introduction of the Aspire program. This project is designed to assist young entrepreneurs in the telecom and digital sectors in launching their businesses. In July 2023, Union IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnav underscored the significance of positioning India as a technology superpower, rendering the Aspire program well-timed.

According to PIB, India Mobile Congress 2023 will include conversations on a diverse array of vital subjects. With a clear focus on the expansion of 5G, preparations for the forthcoming 6G, broadcasting, drone device manufacturing, semiconductor production, and sustainable technology, the event is poised to explore the cutting edge of technological progress. Furthermore, the use and advancement of AI in India are anticipated to be key themes in this significant gathering.

During the event, PM Modi will also present 100 '5G Use Case Labs' to educational institutions nationwide. These labs are part of the '100 5G labs initiative.'

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At least 22 people were killed and dozens more wounded in a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine on Wednesday, October 26, 2023. The shooting took place across multiple locations in the city, including a shopping mall, a school, and a restaurant.

Police have identified the suspect as a 25-year-old man named Robert Dubois. Dubois was killed by police in a shootout after the shooting spree.

The motive for the shooting is still under investigation. However, police have said that there is no evidence to suggest that the shooting was a terrorist attack.

The shooting in Lewiston is the latest in a string of mass shootings in the United States. In 2023, there have already been over 400 mass shootings in the country.

Analysis:

The mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine is a tragic reminder of the epidemic of gun violence in the United States. Once again, innocent people have been killed and wounded by a gunman.

The shooting also raises questions about the motive of the gunman. Why did he choose to target these particular locations? What were his motivations?

Police are still investigating the shooting, but it is clear that this is a senseless tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

Conclusion:

The mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine is a reminder of the need for action to address gun violence in the United States. We must do more to prevent these tragedies from happening.

We must also support the victims of gun violence and their families. They need our prayers and our support during this difficult time.
It is perfectly normal to disagree with someone, even if you hold them in high regard. In fact, it is often through healthy disagreement that we can learn and grow.

Pope Francis is a complex and thought-provoking figure. He has made many statements that have been both praised and criticized. However, even when I disagree with him, I often find wisdom in his words. He has a knack for reframing complex issues in a way that makes them more accessible and understandable. He also challenges us to think critically about our own beliefs and assumptions.

For example, Pope Francis has spoken out against the death penalty, even though it is supported by many Catholics. He has also argued for a more inclusive and welcoming Church, especially towards LGBT people. These are just two examples of where he has taken a different stance from the traditional Catholic position.

While I may not always agree with Pope Francis, I appreciate his willingness to speak his mind and to challenge the status quo. He is a role model for us all in terms of how to think critically and to live with courage and conviction.

Here is a quote from Pope Francis that I find particularly wise:

It is not enough to criticize the world in which we live. We must also build the world we want.

This quote reminds us that we all have a role to play in creating a better world. We cannot simply sit by and complain about the problems we see. We must take action to make a difference.

I encourage you to continue to reflect on Pope Francis words, even when you disagree with him. He has a lot to teach us about faith, justice, and compassion.

Here is a list of some of Pope Francis most famous quotes:

The Lord never tires of forgiving. It is we who tire of asking for forgiveness.

Who am I to judge?

We must be the Church which goes forth and encounters others.

The poor are not a problem, they are a resource. They are not a burden, they are an opportunity.

The Church is a field hospital after battle.

If we want life, let us give life. If we want opportunities, let us provide opportunities.

The world is not divided between good people and bad people, but between informed and uninformed consciences.

Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

We are all called to be saints.

God is always forgiving, we men forgive sometimes, but nature never forgives. If you give her a slap, she will give you one. I believe that we have exploited nature too much.

We must be the Church which goes forth and encounters others.

The world is not divided between good people and bad people, but between informed and uninformed consciences.

Pope Francis is known for his simple and direct language, as well as his focus on social justice and compassion. His quotes have resonated with people of all faiths and backgrounds, and they continue to inspire and challenge us today.
Multiculturalism is the ideology that advocates for the maintenance of cultural and ethnic diversity within a society. It is based on the belief that all cultures are of equal value and should be respected and protected. While multiculturalism may seem like a noble ideal, it has a number of serious flaws.

One of the biggest problems with multiculturalism is that it can lead to social fragmentation and division. When different cultures are isolated from each other, it can lead to misunderstandings and resentment. This can make it difficult to build a sense of national identity and unity.

Another problem with multiculturalism is that it can lead to the erosion of traditional values and beliefs. When different cultures are allowed to coexist freely, it can lead to a clash of values. This can make it difficult to maintain a strong moral compass and sense of direction.

Multiculturalism can also lead to a decline in social cohesion and trust. When people from different cultures are not able to find common ground, it can make it difficult to build strong relationships and communities. This can lead to an increase in crime and social disorder.

Finally, multiculturalism can lead to a decrease in economic growth and innovation. When different cultures are not integrated into the mainstream, it can make it difficult to create a cohesive and productive workforce. This can lead to a decline in economic competitiveness.

In conclusion, multiculturalism is a flawed ideology that has a number of negative consequences. It can lead to social fragmentation and division, the erosion of traditional values and beliefs, a decline in social cohesion and trust, and a decrease in economic growth and innovation.

Here are some specific examples of the negative consequences of multiculturalism:

Social fragmentation and division: In countries such as the United States and France, there has been a rise in ethnic and religious tensions in recent years. This is due in part to the fact that these countries have large immigrant populations from different cultures.

In countries such as the United States and France, there has been a rise in ethnic and religious tensions in recent years. This is due in part to the fact that these countries have large immigrant populations from different cultures. Erosion of traditional values and beliefs: In many Western countries, there has been a decline in traditional values such as patriotism, family, and religion. This is due in part to the fact that these countries have become more multicultural.

In many Western countries, there has been a decline in traditional values such as patriotism, family, and religion. This is due in part to the fact that these countries have become more multicultural. Decline in social cohesion and trust: In many multicultural societies, there is a lack of trust between people from different cultures. This can make it difficult to build strong communities.

In many multicultural societies, there is a lack of trust between people from different cultures. This can make it difficult to build strong communities. Decrease in economic growth and innovation: In some multicultural societies, there is a lack of economic integration between people from different cultures. This can make it difficult to create a cohesive and productive workforce.

It is important to note that the negative consequences of multiculturalism are not inevitable. They can be mitigated through policies that promote integration and assimilation. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of multiculturalism before adopting it as a national ideology.

Shayne Heffernan
A longtime board member and former president of the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation has died.

James "Jim" Andrew Holte of Elk Mound passed away Oct. 22, two days before his 70th birthday, with his wife, Gayle, by his side. Holte was an active member of Wisconsin Farm Bureau for more than 40 years, represented District 9 on the Wisconsin Farm Bureau board for 24 years and served as the Wisconsin Farm Bureau president for seven years until his retirement in 2019.

Jim was a dear friend and mentor to many, me included. He was extremely personable, appreciated meeting new people and gaining new experiences, said Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation president Kevin Krentz. "He was a lifelong learner and was the type of person who took the time to get to know you. He loved farming and enjoyed being around people who shared the passion."

In 2022, Holte was awarded the Wisconsin Farm Bureau's Distinguished Service to Wisconsin Agriculture award.

He took great pride in being the voice for so many and never took for granted his role of making sure farmers were at the table for the discussions they needed to be, Krentz said. We are grateful for every ounce of time and effort Jim gave to (the) Farm Bureau and his thoughtful leadership. Jim was an exceptional person and a mindful leader who will never be forgotten.

If you go What: James "Jim" Andrew Holte visitation When: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27 Where: Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 910 9th Street E, Menomonie A funeral will follow the visitation

According to his obituary, Holte grew up on his family's farm in the Chippewa bottoms, and after finishing college he returned to farm a dairy operation, growing it to more than 100 head. Later in his career, he transitioned to grow grain and raise beef cattle when other commitments took him away from the farm more often.

Holte served on the boards of directors for GROWMARK Inc., Farm Bureau Life and FBL Financial Group and was a Midwest representative to the American Farm Bureau Federation Board of Directors. He was also a past president of the Wisconsin Beef Council, a member of the Wisconsin State Livestock committee and Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium board. He served as chairperson of the Wisconsin Livestock Siting Review Board and was a citizen board member of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection board.

During his career, Jim was also recognized as a Wisconsin Master Agriculturist in 2005, named 2015 Wisconsin Distinguished Agriculturalist by the UW River Falls College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences, and received the Honorary Wisconsin Future Farmers of America degree in 2016.

In 2018, Holte hosted former Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue at his farm, where many of his fellow farmers had an opportunity to discuss policy.

Beyond agriculture, Holte was active in his church and local schools. He served as a member of the Elk Mound Area School District school board for 18 years and as a member of many committees at the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Eau Claire. He was a current member of Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Menomonie.
Woman who burned herself on Dunkin coffee in GA settles for $3 million
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Use the Arrows < > above to go through the gallery

There was a great crowd in Longford County Library last Thursday evening as GAA President, Larry McCarthy officially launched Seamus McRorys new book Crossing the Divide.

Derry native Seamus McRory, a retired primary school principal, lives in Abbeycartron, just outside Longford town, with his wife Olive. He is a former student of St Josephs College of Education and Queens University, Belfast. READ MORE BELOW PHOTO

Crossing the Divide is a 29 chapter memoir of GAA, musical, historical and political stories which runs to over 470 pages.

According to Seamus, no county, as small as Longford, has contributed so much to two Anglo-Irish Agreements over seven decades apart. Ballinalee men Henry Wilson and Sean MacEoin were competing protagonists prior to the 1921 Anglo-Irish Treaty. In the 1990s, a grandson of Ballinalee, David Trimble, and Longford TD, and Taoiseach, Albert Reynolds were key stakeholders on the pathway to the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

Reading from a chapter in his book entitled Longford and Anglo Irish Relations Seamus reminded the audience at his book launch, The story of Currygrane, Ballinalee and Clonfin has now said goodbye to a world of hardship, bitterness and tears and says hello to a new world of trust, of caring and sharing for all.

In the words of the late and great Seamus Mallon our whole island must be shared on a just and equitable basis amongst all our citizens. The narratives of Henry Wilson, Sean MacEoin, Albert Reynolds and David Trimble have played a considerable role in the ongoing enactment of that dream.

Seamus thanked Paul McAvinchey, Armagh and Eamon Regan of Magherafelt for supplying him with primary source information as well as always being available with sensible advice and friendly encouragement. A particular word of gratitude to Longford County librarian, Ms Martina Needham, the Secretary of Longford County GAA Board, Peter O'Reilly and Dermot McPeake, PRO of Derry County GAA Board for facilitating the production of this book in so many different ways.

Seamus expressed a special word of thanks to all who feature in the book for sharing their wonderful stories with me in such an open, friendly way is a tribute both to them and to their families.

He thanked his good friend Joe Hunt from Legan for his meticulous attention to detail in expertly proofing the book and his wife Olive, son Diarmuid and son-in-law Damien, for all of their technical expertise, support and encouragement at all times.

Seamus thanked all the staff at Orpen Press, especially Managing Director, Gerry Kelly, Managing Editor, Eileen O'Brien and Benil Shah for their professionalism in facilitating Crossing The Divide. They were always there to encourage and support me in so many ways.

The book is on sale for 20 in various local outlets.
The Butler County Sheriffs Office has been reduced to seven certified law enforcement officials after the firing of former sheriffs Deputy Christopher M. Harris on Oct. 12.

Butler County Sheriff Thomas Dion verified to the Banner-Press that Harris had been terminated, with the mandatory "Personal Change-in-Status" form filed with the Nebraska Law Enforcement Training Center on Oct. 13.

Under Nebraska state law, anytime a law enforcement official leaves the employment of an agency, their departure must be relayed to state officials with NLETC detailing the persons name, last day of employment and the reason for the separation of employment.

On the form regarding Harris, Dion check a box under the classification of dismissal.

In a telephone interview on Friday, Oct. 20, Dion said he was unable to comment on the matter.

I am not at liberty to discuss this issue, Dion said of Harris termination. I am not going to talk about it.

The reason for Harris termination was not listed on the form Dion filed with the NLETC. A review of case filings in Butler County Court revealed there are no court filings on record pertaining to Harris for any criminal allegations.

Dion said termination of a deputy can be for a variety of reasons.

(A termination) does not mean a crime was committed, Dion stressed. It could be because of a policy violation or something along those lines.

Law enforcement officials who are terminated face the potential of having their law enforcement certification revoked by the Nebraska Crime Commission. The commission meets monthly and conducts hearings about law enforcement misconduct.

The Butler County Sheriffs Office has had one deputy lose their law enforcement license since 1995.

Former Butler County deputy Joseph P. Hatzenbuehler had his law enforcement certification revoked for life by the Nebraska Crime Commission on Aug. 9, 2019. Hatzebuehler worked his last day in Butler County on Feb. 18, 2019.

Hatzenbuehler was never charged with any criminal allegations, however, he was accused by a woman of alleged domestic abuse during 2019. That woman sought, and was granted by a county judge, a protective order for domestic abuse against Hatzenbuehler in December 2019. The order prevented Hatzenbuehler from contacting the woman or his two children for a period of one year.

Dion said Harris had been a sheriffs deputy with Butler County for about one-year at the time of his termination. The termination has left the sheriffs office with only seven certified law enforcement officials, a total which includes Dion and six other deputies, he noted.

Efforts are underway to find applicants and eventually hire a new deputy to fill the vacant position, Dion added. Any interested applicants can contact the Butler County Sheriffs Office at 402-367-7400.
A Granard student was awarded a Naughton Foundation Scholarship worth 24,000 at a ceremony in the Trinity Business School in Dublin.

Eimear Scanlon was presented with her prestigious scholarship by founding patrons of the Naughton Foundation, Dr Martin Naughton, and his wife Carmel, who were joined by be joined by former Taoiseach Mr Enda Kenny to present winning students with their awards and cheques.

Elmer, a former student of Cnoc Mhuire Granard, has accepted a place studying Engineering at University College Dublin.

Eimear was among eight Cnoc Mhuire students who achieved 500 points or more in their 2023 Leaving Cert and at a ceremony to honour these students in September, the Jubilee Cup was presented to Eimear as the student with the best overall results.

In achieving this accolade, Eimear followed in the footsteps of her brother Ciaran who jointly won the award in 2021.

Supporting academic and innovative excellence in Irish students, the Naughton Foundation Scholarship Awards are an investment in the future of Ireland's reputation as a country with outstanding graduates promoting the study of engineering, science, and technology at third level.

Since its establishment in 2008, scholarships worth over 6 million have been awarded to over 350 students. The scheme started in three counties and has continued to expand annually to become a nationwide scheme in 2016. There is one guaranteed scholarship (24,000) for each participating county.

Eimear joins 37 exceptional Irish students who were awarded third level scholarships towards their studies in the areas of engineering, science, technology, and maths. Her former secondary school, Cnoc Mhuire was awarded a prize of 1,000 towards the schools science facilities.

Speaking about the growth of the programme over the past 14 years, Dr Martin Naughton said: We are delighted to have been able to help and contribute in some small way to support undergraduate studies in the STEM fields since 2008.
Little Steps for Ukraine is a project set up by Ukrainian mothers in Longford to bring joy to children suffering in war ravaged Ukraine.

Local volunteer Tiernan Dolan explained the concept of the appeal to the Leader: The idea is simple. The donor fills a shoe box with little treats, like sweets, t-shirt, a soft toy, colouring books and crayons.

Little Steps for Ukraine Longford continue to make a huge difference in the lives of children in the conflict zone. Since it was set up in Longford, almost 700 children in Ukraine have benefited.

Each shoe box gift contains some clothes, soft toys and sweets. Funded by Ukrainians living in Longford and by donations from Longford people, the project has been a phenomenal success despite some setbacks.

Originally An Post waived their fee if the package was under 2kg, but that support has since stopped. Now the shoe boxes are sent with a jeep donated to Ukraine every few weeks. The jeep project is not from Longford.

On Sunday there was devastating news as a Russian missile destroyed a postal distribution centre in Ukraine, killing six workers and injuring many more.

On the same day, Longford McDonald's, through Damian O'Kane and Seamus Rawle, donated four boxes of soft toys, all of which will be sent to individual children in the lead up to Christmas.
Neighbours and locals from Tina Satchwells Cork home town have gathered to say goodbye to a woman who had a smile for everybody ahead of her funeral mass on Wednesday.

Mrs Satchwells funeral cortege passed through Fermoy as family, friends and neighbours paid their respects to a woman described as beautiful on the inside and out.

Groups of people gathered in St Bernards Place estate, where Mrs Satchwell grew up in a terraced house, to remember an animal lover who loved life.

Mrs Satchwell, 45, had been missing from her home in Youghal since March 2017 until Irish police discovered her remains buried under the staircase in a Youghal house two weeks ago.

Her widower Richard Satchwell, 57, with an address on Grattan Street, Youghal, has been charged with her murder.

Neighbours of the family home in St Bernards Place, Patsy Flood and Brendan Cronin, described her as a lovely woman who was happy all of the time and took her dogs everywhere with her.

Mr Flood said despite the tragedy of her death, he was happy to hear that her remains were found for her familys sake.

He told the PA news agency: Thank God they got her. Theres no-one in Cork that would say a bad word about them (Mrs Satchwells family).

Two of Mrs Satchwells cousins, Melissa and Jean, described her as lovely and stylish.

Jean said that she remembers when Mrs Satchwell was a teenager, she brushed her hair in the bedroom of the family home in St Bernard Place, and Melissa described her as a pure girl.

They said that she used to keep her dog Ruby in little handbags and the only time they seemed to be separated was when Mrs Satchwell went swimming.

Two neighbours, Tim and Catherine Cosgrove, told PA she was a dote who loved her fashion, loved her dogs.

Loved life, God love her, Mrs Cosgrove said.

When she moved away then, she used to come up every couple of months, shed always come over and say hello to us, Mr Cosgrove said.

When she did move away, every year without fail, wed get a Christmas card from her, every year without fail.

Mrs Cosgrove said: Shed stand at the wall talking away. Shed have the dog Ruby in the bag and shed say Look, what Im wearing the dog is wearing the same colour!

And she always had a smile, every time youd see that girl she was smiling.

She was that kind of a girl, there wasnt a person who could say a bad word against her.

Mrs Cosgrove said it was a sad ending but Mr Cosgrove added that its closure now for her family and friends.

Its a shame, but at least its closure now, Mrs Cosgrove said.

We were all waiting for years, waiting to hear what happened to her, where did she go.

A local woman who knew Mrs Satchwell said she was loved by everyone and had a smile for everybody.

She said she was relieved when she heard her remains had been found, but was also devastated that her life had ended in the way that it had.

Another person, who did not wish to be named, described Mrs Satchwell as a beautiful person inside and out, and an animal lover and wouldnt hurt a fly.

A notice said Mrs Satchwells funeral mass would take place on Wednesday afternoon privately and quietly, as she lived.
Broadcaster and barrister Joe Brolly has published a series of tweets blasting Israel alongside a number of distressing videos from Gaza.

One of the clips showed Al Jazeera journalist Wael Al Dahdouh crying over the body of his wife who had been killed in an apparent Israeli airstrike. Al Dahdouh had earlier reported on the strikes for the news service, not knowing that his wife, son and daughter had died in the blast.

Brolly posted: "Israel is a rogue state, completely out of control, acting outside all norms of morality and international law. Their leaders must be investigated and prosecuted in the ICC for war crimes and crimes against humanity. It is not anti-semitic to speak the truth. Do not be intimidated."

Joe later shared another distressing video of a baby being pulled from the rubble in Gaza.

He said: "A Palestinian baby is pulled from the rubble by rescuers, bloodied and dazed. Who knows if she will live or die. The Israeli ambassador said just now on Virgin, 'Blame Hamas. Why are you accusing Israel?'"

The Guardian reported that the Al Jazeeras bureau chief in Gaza had fled his home with his family to a refugee camp in central Gaza before the bombings on Tuesday.

The blasts came amid "a surge of Israeli attacks reported to have killed hundreds of people" according to the reports.
THE GOVERNMENT have announced that they are capable of 'potentially' delivering more than 2,700 student beds across Ireland, with new 400m funding.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh OBrien TD welcomed a new 434 million student accommodation financing initiative.

In the first ever student accommodation funding deal between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Housing Finance Agency (HFA), the aim is to deliver additional student beds through the construction and refurbishment of accommodation at Irish universities.

Every student bed we create has a double benefit. It helps the student and their family, but it also frees up private rental accommodation in our cities and towns, said Minister Harris.

This investment by the EIB and HFA will have significant benefits for access to education, and crucially to the wider housing market.

This investment is separate to the Government announcement where a total of up to 61 million has been provided to unlock the development of over 1,000 beds across four universities, with delivery beginning in 2024.

Minister Harris added: This announcement will assist institutions with the cost of building accommodation and help bridge the gap between viability and affordability for students.

Applications will now open and I look forward to seeing the outcome of this important partnership.

The funding arrangement involves a 40-year 200 million loan from the EIB, with the HFA more than matching the investment, bringing the total to 434 million. This funding will form part of the 25% of the Housing For All commitment made by the HFA.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh OBrien said: This Government is focused on scaling up the supply of all types of housing and accommodation, including student accommodation which we know is so badly needed.

"The HFA is well placed to play a lead role in improving the supply of student accommodation. I want to commend everyone involved in this historic agreement.

To date, the HFA has provided financing of 261.2 million to support the delivery of 2,403 student beds.
Ireland must appreciate the differing perspectives of EU members on the Israel-Hamas conflict as the bloc strives to agree a united call for a humanitarian ceasefire, the Taoiseach has said.

Leo Varadkar expressed hope that a common declaration would emerge from talks at the European Council summit across Thursday and Friday.

He said the precise language of the statement did not matter as much as ending the violence.

Mr Varadkar arrived at the summit a day after Ireland advised all its citizens in Lebanon to leave the country amid fears the conflict in Gaza could escalate.

Irelands deputy premier Micheal Martin said on Thursday that the precautionary step was taken due to the possibility of a sudden escalation.

In Brussels, Mr Varadkar warned that escalation would be playing into the hands of Hamas.

On the EU negotiations over a joint position, the Taoiseach added: We mightnt use the exact same language as the United Nations uses, but I hope we will, as the European Union, call for a humanitarian ceasefire, a humanitarian pause. Im not obsessed about what language we use.

What we want is the killing and the violence to stop, so that humanitarian aid can get into Gaza where Palestinian people, innocent Palestinian people, are suffering, and also to allow us to get EU citizens out and we have about 30 Irish-Palestinian citizens in Gaza. Were keen for them to be able to leave Gaza if they want to leave and thats currently not possible.

He said it was important that EU discussions on the conflict took cognisance of the differing perspectives of member states.

Im hopeful that we can agree a statement to call for a pause, a cessation of hostilities, a ceasefire. I think the vast majority of countries want that, he said.

When it comes to matters of foreign policy in the European Union, theyre done by consensus, not by majority vote, and thats something we have to bear in mind.

We also need to bear in mind and respect where other countries are coming from, you know, particularly countries that were involved in the terrible events and the terrible things that happened to Jewish people in the 30s and 40s. We need to understand where theyre coming from, and why so many Jewish people had to return to Israel, their ancestral homeland, because of the events of the Holocaust.

Secondly, we need to bear in mind that a lot of countries in the European Union have been subjected to terrorism by extremist Islamic groups, the Bataclan (theatre) in Paris, the attacks on the metro in Spain, we need to be wise to that  that countries are coming at this from a very different perspective.

In Ireland, we have a lot of sympathy for the Palestinian people, often driven by our own historical experience. But to get a consensus among 27 people, were going to have to compromise, were going to have to understand each other.

I believe itll be possible for us to come out of here tomorrow with a unified stance as a European Union. Even if we dont all agree on emphasis and detail, I think it is possible to have a common position and that will then guide everything else everyone else says from there on.

Mr Varadkar said any ceasefire would be meaningless unless all sides observed it.

Lebanon Travel Advice Update We have reviewed and revised our Travel Advice for Lebanon  Irish citizens are strongly advised to leave now while commercial options remain available.https://t.co/Zr2Ma2YF0X@dfatravelwise @IRLEmbCairo  Irish Foreign Ministry (@dfatirl) October 25, 2023

It is one thing for the United Nations and the European Union to call for a ceasefire or humanitarian pause, would the Israeli Defence Forces, Hamas, Islamic Jihad abide by it? We dont know, he said.

And, of course, a ceasefire, a pause, is worth nothing unless everyone abides by it.

Lets not forget where this started, or at least this phase of the conflict started, by a very brutal attack by Hamas, the Islamic resistance movement, on civilian targets in Israel with a view to causing a provocation, with a view to making Israel invade Gaza, in the hope that they would escalate tensions in the region and cause the Saudi/Israeli peace talks to come to an end.

Thats actually one of the points Ill be making, is its really important that we dont play into the hands of Hamas here, what Hamas wants is an escalation, they want to see this conflict spread to the wider region.

There are other people, quite frankly, in other parts of the world who would like to see that too, because it would take focus off Ukraine, so its very important that we dont fall into that trap.

Mr Varadkar also criticised Irans influence on events in the region.

There is clear evidence that the Iranian government is supporting Hezbollah in Lebanon, is supporting Hamas in Palestine, is supporting the Houthis in Yemen, and is a destabilising actor in world affairs, he said.

Back in Dublin, Mr Martin explained the decision to change the guidance to Irish citizens in Lebanon.

Irelands Department of Foreign Affairs has also advised against travel to Lebanon, citing a highly volatile situation.

Our basic advice is that we do believe it would be wise to consider leaving Lebanon, we say that with great regret, the Tanaiste told reporters.

But there is potential for regional escalation and we can see an increase in activity in the northern border. And while there are commercial options available, it is our considered advice that people should really think about taking those commercial routes and options that are currently available, that may not be available if anything sudden happens.

We have no sort of metric, obviously, in terms of the timing of this, and things can happen pretty quickly. And weve seen that, and its a very volatile situation in the Middle East right now.

So the precautionary principle applies, and thats essentially what we are saying.
A court has heard that the man accused of murdering Ashling Murphy was in very low spirits and desperate as he told gardai that he killed her.

The Central Criminal Court in Dublin heard that Jozef Puska was quite emotional after telling gardai he had unintentionally killed the schoolteacher.

Ms Murphy, 23, was killed while out exercising on a canal path in Tullamore, Co Offaly, at about 3.30pm on January 12 last year.

Puska, 33, of Lynally Grove in Mucklagh, Tullamore, has pleaded not guilty to the schoolteachers murder.

The court was hearing evidence from interpreter Miroslav Sedlacek who provided a translation service to gardai while they were questioning Puska in hospital.

Puska had presented to St James Hospital in Dublin on January 13 2022 with injuries allegedly sustained during a separate stabbing incident at Blanchardstown.

Mr Sedlacek told the court he worked as an interpreter over the phone for gardai questioning Puska at St James Hospital on two occasions on January 14.

He said the first call at approximately 12.20pm related to how Puska travelled from Tullamore to Blanchardstown and the alleged assault against him there.

In terms of his condition after the alleged attack, he said that he suffered bad injuries, he said he was knocked down on to the ground, that he could hardly move but he managed somehow to get taxi to get back.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska described the attack as a stabbing and said his condition was quite severe.

The interpreter said he was informed that a second call at approximately 6pm was to explain to Puska that there was a warrant to seize his belongings for a criminal investigation.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska asked why his belongings were being seized.

He said: That was explained to him by the garda that there was an investigation to some incident that happened in Tullamore the previous day, probably.

Jozef wanted to know how this related to himself.

Mr Sedlacek said it was his recollection that the garda specified it was a murder.

He also asked Jozef if he has any information about this incident that happened in Tullamore.

Jozef said that he heard something or that he knew something from the internet but not too much.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska wanted to know if he was a suspect.

The garda explained to him that he is not a suspect, that he is a so-called person of interest.

He said Puska did not know what this meant but it was explained to him.

Mr Sedlacek said he remembered what happened next very well.

It was at this particular point where actually Jozef said to me and asked me personally during that telephone call to translate his confession.

He asked me to translate it accurately, exactly and that was still between me and him before I went on interpreting anything  so it was quite spontaneous. Everything came quickly.

So he said please tell him everything exactly what I tell you and please, tell him that I did it, that I killed her but please tell him that I didnt do that intentionally.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska asked him to tell the gardai that it was not intentional and that he was very sorry that it happened.

The interpreter said after this was translated, the garda cautioned Puska and was told he would be provided with a solicitor.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska then asked the gardai some questions.

Jozefs questions were all related to the wellbeing of his family.

Jozef was very concerned about the safety of his family.

I know that from his questions.

His question was, first of all, after I had made his confession, Do you think my family members names will go public  that was the first concern.

The garda said probably not his familys names but his own name would go public during the proceedings.

Another question, if I remember correctly, is there any possibility that the girls family would take revenge on his own family.

Mr Sedlacek said Puska stressed it was not intentional.

He said the defendants voice changed significantly during the evening conversation when compared to the earlier call.

Especially after he had made his confession, he was quite emotional.

His voice was like trembling.

His sentences were already quite disjointed already but I supposed it was as a result of the situation he was in.

His voice changed significantly.

I would describe him as being in very low spirits, even desperate after the confession.

He wanted to know if his family is safe after the confession, if everything will be alright with his family and what happens to them, once he made this confession.

The garda explained to him that there wont be any problem or any dispute between those two families, that her family would certainly not take any revenge on Jozefs family, that there is no such threat.

Mr Sedlacek said gardai informed him that Puska did not feel well and the call would have to be terminated.

Under cross examination from defence barrister Michael Bowman SC, Mr Sedlacek was asked if the full warrant was read to Puska.

The interpreter said he did not remember exactly but said, intuitively, a summary of the warrant was read to Puska.

He also told Mr Bowman that Puska had identified himself as someone the gardai are looking for.

The court heard from the site nurse manager at St James Hospital who gardai had approached with the warrant to seize Puskas belongings.

Under cross examination from Mr Bowman, Rosalind Gillen said gardai never requested access to speak to Puskas physician or inquired if he was in a fit condition for gardai to deal with him any capacity.

She said she had no function in deeming the fitness of Puska to deal with gardai.

The trial continues.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

Model Policy Outlines Trauma-Informed and Survivor-Centered Best Practices and Procedures for Police Officers and Supervisors That Promote Safety of Victims and Officers.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced new state guidance for police departments and sheriffs offices when responding to domestic incidents. The states Law Enforcement Domestic Incident Model Policy outlines trauma-informed and survivor-centered best practices and procedures for police officers and supervisors to follow, with the goal of promoting safety for victims and officers, connecting individuals to services and support, and preserve evidence of a crime, among other topics. The Governor has secured $1 million to further expand the use of the states Red Flag Law in situations of intimate partner and gender-based violence by providing training and technical assistance to community-based organizations so they can facilitate the filing of these potentially life-saving orders. Governor Hochul also signed S.5935/A.5040 and S.5915/A.5347, two new laws related to domestic violence prevention, during a roundtable discussion with survivors in Albany.

"I'm committed to leading an administration that treats survivors with dignity and respect," Governor Hochul said. This is personal to me: my mother was a lifelong advocate for victims of domestic abuse, and our family founded a transitional home for survivors in Western New York. These actions build on my administration's ongoing commitment to help survivors and provide them with the resources, support and information they need to recover and rebuild."

State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) Executive Director Kelli Owens and Safe Horizon Chief Executive Officer Liz Roberts joined Governor Hochul for the roundtable discussion, information from which will inform her administrations future policies to address domestic and gender-based violence. The goal is to build on the Governors establishment of a new flexible funding stream for survivor resources in the FY24 Budget, which also included $5 million in local assistance funding for OPDV to provide direct financial assistance to victims and survivors of domestic violence. October is marked in New York State and the nation as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Executive Director Kelli Owens said, New York State is dedicated to working collaboratively to provide necessary resources to survivors of domestic violence. We cannot do that without speaking directly to the experts  survivors. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for recognizing this and for taking the time to truly listen. I look forward to continuing this discussion with survivors and service providers across New York State and working with the Governor to create survivor-informed policies for the State of New York.

Safe Horizon CEO Liz Roberts said, "At Safe Horizon, the nation's largest nonprofit victim assistance organization, we know all too well how the intersection of gun violence and domestic violence so often leads to tragedy. If we are going to truly create paths to safety for New Yorkers who are at risk of these and other crimes, it will take all of us - government and the victim services community - working together to keep families safe. I am grateful to Governor Kathy Hochul and her team for uplifting the voices of survivors and for pledging to do all they can to make New York a beacon of safety and healing."

Governor Hochul dramatically expanded use of the states Red Flag Law in the aftermath of the 2022 racially motivate murders at the Tops supermarket in Buffalo. Also known as the Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) Law, the law is designed to prevent individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing or possessing any kind of firearm, while providing procedural safeguards to ensure that no firearm is removed without due process.

This new, $1 million investment will fund training and technical assistance for community-based organizations so they can help potential ERPO petitioners  family members, school officials, and health and mental health care providers, among others  identify extreme risk behavior and navigate the court process to further increase the use of this critical public safety law. The state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) and OPDV will work with the states 10 Domestic Violence Regional Councils to implement this initiative.

The new Law Enforcement Domestic Incident Model Policy addresses significant shifts in law enforcement policy and practice that have occurred since the state first issued guidance in 2010, as well as an increased understanding of the effects of trauma, the need to assess for lethality factors when responding to these incidents, and the importance of putting victims and survivors at the center of any response and holding individuals who harm accountable for their behavior. The States Municipal Police Training Council, to which DCJS provides staff support, adopted the policy after working with subject matter experts in policing, domestic violence prevention and response, and law enforcement training.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, Domestic incidents are among the most common and serious calls agencies receive. This comprehensive model policy is designed to provide responding officers with the information, tools, and resources they need to effectively handle these cases. I thank the members of the Municipal Police Training Council and my team at DCJS for their work and commitment to improving policing and how the criminal justice system responds to victims and survivors.

New York State Office for Victim Services Director Elizabeth Cronin said, It takes an incredible amount of courage for someone in an abusive relationship to seek help from the police. Once they take that step, even making that call can cause a dangerous situation to escalate, so its critically important that police officers have the best information, training, and skills when they respond. I thank Municipal Police Training Council members for their leadership and urge all police agencies take advantage of this important guidance.

In addition to announcing the availability of this critical guidance for law enforcement and funding to expand the use of the states Red Flag Law, Governor Hochul signed legislation S.5935/A.5040 enacting the Hope Card Act that directs the state Office of Court Administration to develop a program to issue cards containing information of a final order of protection at no cost to individuals. This will empower and enable survivors to enforce their orders of protection without carrying, and risk losing, their official copies. New York is the sixth state to implement a Hope Card program.

State Senator Cordell Cleare said, "Providing survivors of domestic violence with services, protection, peace of mind and HOPE is one of our foremost obligations. The HOPE Card Act will transform an order of protection from a long legal document to a dynamic durable card, which will be easily accessible and shareable to effectuate enforcement and keep our loved ones safe; and most of all, full of HOPE!"

Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, "Hope Cards create a path for survivors to discreetly and quickly share pertinent details of an order of protection by issuing copies of a more convenient and usable version along with the traditional long form. Hope Cards will give survivors of domestic violence more control to effectively enforce their orders of protection and live their lives in safety and confidence. I am proud to have introduced this bill in the Assembly, and thank Governor Hochul for her partnership in making New York the sixth state to empower survivors with this important legislation."

The Governor also signed legislation S.5915/A.5347 requiring the State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to distribute informational materials on economic abuse. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, more than 90 percent of survivors of domestic violence have suffered economic abuse, but many people do not see themselves as being in an abusive relationship if they are not being physically harmed. Informational materials for victims and survivors of domestic- and gender-based violence will include connections to housing resources, local social service offices, and more to help individuals attain safety and stability.

State Senator Kristen Gonzalez said, "Economic abuse - like so many forms of domestic violence - is overlooked, underreported, and sometimes difficult to recognize. By requiring the Office of the Prevention of Domestic Violence to distribute informational materials on a form of domestic violence that is near ubiquitous in abusive relationships, this bill will empower survivors of economic abuse to recognize economic abuse in its many forms and give them the tools they need to find help. We thank the Governor for signing this bill into law, and for promoting more trauma-informed responses to domestic violence.

Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, "Economic abuse is an invisible form of domestic violence, making it increasingly important that we shine a light on this dangerous practice. Despite being lesser known, economic abuse is extremely common, impacting more than 90% of domestic violence survivors. When a person is trying to leave a dangerous situation, the last thing they should have to worry about is how they will afford to rebuild their life or if their credit has been destroyed by their abuser. I thank Governor Hochul for signing my legislation to make informational materials available to survivors statewide so that they can recognize economic abuse and know where to turn for help."

The Model Policy addresses changes in law enforcement practice, updates to state law, including the Red Flag Law, and ways for the law enforcement response to be more survivor centered, including:

Assessing potential lethality to a victim by asking questions about their partners access to guns or threats to harm themselves or others, prior incidents of strangulation, harm experienced during pregnancy, jealously and escalating violence. If an individual answers yes to these questions, the guidance provides officers with detailed information about the next steps they should take, including immediately connecting the victim with safety planning by calling a state or local domestic violence hotline or arranging for an advocate to arrive on scene; obtaining evidence from all possible sources, such as phone records, video, and license plate readers, not solely the victim; and consult with prosecutors prior to arraignment if an individual has been charged in connection with the incident.

Determining if it is necessary to obtain an ERPO to remove any firearms from the home if the alleged abuser poses a danger to the victim, themselves, or others. The Municipal Police Training Council also has an Extreme Risk Protective Order Model Policy and DCJS has provided training on the topic to assist law enforcement professionals with this assessment and their responsibilities under the law.

Using the individuals own words when documenting the incident, rather than drawing conclusions: I cant sign this or hell kill me, instead of characterizing the statement, such as victim refused to cooperate. Police officers must complete a New York State Domestic Incident Report , whether or not an offense occurred, or an arrest is made.

Notifying individuals about the availability critical civil legal services so they can obtain orders of protection, and assistance with custody and housing, among other legal matters resulting from their victimization.

Understanding how the effects of trauma and coercive control may result in victims and survivors of domestic violence being hesitant to say what happened, list events in illogical order, and fear authority figures or that police involvement may subject them to future harm.

Using body-worn cameras, which may affect a victims willingness to provide information. If a victim requests an officer stop recording, that request should be documented on camera before the recording is deactivated.

Police departments and sheriffs' offices are not required to adopt the Law Enforcement Domestic Incident Model Policy: It is designed so each agency can develop their own policies and procedures to best serve the unique needs of their community. Development of model policies is a core function of the Municipal Police Training Council, which also establishes requirements for statutorily mandated police and peace officer basic training in New York State, and police and peace officer instructor certifications, among other responsibilities.

New York State's Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline provides free, confidential support 24/7 and is available in most languages: 800-942-6906 (call), 844-997-2121 (text) or @opdv.ny.gov (chat). Individuals also can visit OVS Resource Connect to find a victim assistance program in their community. The Office of Victim Services funds and supports 239 victim assistance programs across the state that provide essential services, such as crisis counseling, support groups, case management, emergency shelter, civil legal help, and relocation assistance, among other assistance, to victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crimes, and their families. The agency also provides a critical financial safety net for individuals who have no other resources to pay for expenses they incurred because of the crime.

The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services is a multifunction criminal justice support agency with a variety of responsibilities, including law enforcement training; collection and analysis of statewide crime data; maintenance of criminal history information and fingerprint files; administrative oversight of the states DNA databank, in partnership with the New York State Police; funding and oversight of probation and community correction programs; administration of federal and state criminal justice funds; support of criminal justice-related agencies across the state; and administration of the States Sex Offender Registry. Follow the agency on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

The New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence is the country's only executive level state agency dedicated to the issue of gender-based violence. Follow the agency on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).

Safe Horizon is the nation's largest nonprofit victim assistance organization. Based entirely in New York City, Safe Horizon offers a client-centered, trauma-informed, anti-racist response to 250,000 New Yorkers each year who have experienced violence or abuse.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

Investigators arrested Joy Portelli, 54, and Jodi Ann Harrigan, 54, both of Lindenhurst, NY, after they were found to be in possession of a stolen vehicle.

On October 19, 2023, the Suffolk County Sheriffs Office Warrant Squad arrested two women for crimes including Felony Criminal Possession of Stolen Property after one of the women reported to the Warrant Bureau in Islip to surrender for separate charges that were highlighted in the Suffolk Sheriffs Fugitive Friday social media campaign.

Investigators arrested Joy Portelli, 54, and Jodi Ann Harrigan, 54, both of Lindenhurst, NY, after they were found to be in possession of a vehicle that was reported stolen by Avis Car Rental, out of Roanoke, VA. This arrest was the final arrest in a series of events that began in August 2023 when Ms. Portelli left NY with her son.

Suffolk County Sheriff Dr. Errol D. Toulon, Jr. notes the complexity of this case and the interagency communication that led to the arrests. I believe that these arrests are an example of the great work performed by Investigators of the Warrant Squad and are a testimony to the effectiveness of the Suffolk County Sheriffs Office Fugitive Friday social media campaign. I commend my Deputies for their hard work and thank them for returning this child safely to his father.

Joy Portelli, who is the non-custodial parent, absconded with her son on August 26, 2023 on a flight to Orlando, FL, from MacArthur Airport.

On September 19, Ms. Portelli was arrested in Woodbridge, VA, by the William City Police Department for Brandishing a Firearm. At the time of her arrest by William City PD, Ms. Portelli was operating a Grey 2022 Chrysler Pacifica with Illinois plates, which was subsequently reported stolen. At the time of this arrest, Portelli was with her minor son and her friend, Jodi Ann Harrigan. Ms. Portellis son was left in the custody of Harrigan, who informed the William City PD that she would turn over custody of the child to his uncle, Christopher Orthodoxon. Mr. Orthodoxon was also the person who rented the Chrysler Pacifica that Portelli was operating at the time of her arrest. Portelli was released on the payment of $1,500 bail later the same day.

On September 20, Joseph Portelli, Sr., husband of Joy Portelli and father of the child, appeared in Suffolk County Family Court in front of the Honorable Matthew Hughes. Judge Hughes issued an order of protection for Joy Portelli to stay away from both of her minor sons. Judge Hughes also issued a Temporary Order of Custody naming Joseph Portelli Sr. as the custodial parent of both children, and a Family Court arrest warrant for Joy Portelli for Child Neglect.

The Suffolk County Sheriffs Office featured Joy Portelli in a Fugitive Friday social media post which led to her self-surrender on October 19. Meanwhile, Warrant Squad investigators canvassed the First District Court parking lot and located the stolen Chrysler Pacifica, which was occupied by Jodi Ann Harrigan. Ms. Harrigan was then arrested by Investigators and charged with Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4 (E Felony). Joy Portelli was additionally charged with Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle 3 and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4 (E Felony).

The subject vehicle was impounded as evidence at the Suffolk County Sheriffs Office Impound Section in Westhampton. Ms. Portelli appeared in Family Court and was released on her own recognizance. Her son was released to the custody of his father.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

The Four Defendants and a Fifth Unapprehended Co-Defendant Allegedly Ambushed a Smoke Shop Employee, Stealing Cash and Merchandise.

Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that ALBERT DIAZ, 22, of Ronkonkoma, ANGEL ARGUETA, 19, of Ronkonkoma, BASSARNA MALCOM, 18, of Wyandanch, and VASCO ARNAULT, 19, of Wyandanch, were indicted for Robbery in the Second Degree, for forcibly stealing merchandise and cash from the Lucky 7 Smoke Shop in Ronkonkoma.

Those that would seek to commit retail theft and threaten clerks in the process in Suffolk County should be on notice that they will be held responsible for their conduct. Retail employees in Suffolk County should not have to fear for their safety when they are simply trying to earn a living and do their jobs, said District Attorney Tierney. Our goal is to deter criminals from even entertaining the thought of committing such crimes, by ensuring they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and that we seek significant penalties for violent offenses.

According to the investigation, on September 21, 2023, at approximately 12:35 a.m., DIAZ, ARGUETA, MALCOLM, ARNAULT and a fifth unapprehended co-defendant allegedly ran into the Lucky 7 Smoke Shop in Ronkonkoma as the store employee was preparing to close the shop. DIAZ, ARGUETA, ARNAULT and the unapprehended co-defendant jumped over the counter, while MALCOM allegedly began stealing merchandise.

ARNAULT allegedly grabbed the store clerk by his neck, lifted him in the air, and threatened him. The clerk looked down and saw what appeared to be a handgun sticking out of ARNAULTs sweatshirt. In fear for his life, the clerk complied and did not fight back. In addition to allegedly stealing merchandise, the defendants also stole an unspecified amount of cash from the register. All five then fled the smoke shop, and the clerk called 911.

A Suffolk County Police Department Highway Enforcement officer patrolling the area reported that he observed the defendants flee the smoke shop and get into a car. The officer followed the defendants vehicle until it pulled into a driveway on Terry Road in Ronkonkoma, where four of the defendants allegedly jumped out and fled in different directions. The driver did not flee. After a search of the surrounding area, three of the defendants were apprehended by law enforcement.

DIAZ, ARGUETA, MALCOLM, and ARNAULT were each indicted on two counts of Robbery in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies.

On October 5, 2023, at MALCOMs arraignment on the indictment, Judge Senft ordered him held on $30,000 cash, $60,000 bond, or $300,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. MALCOLM is due back in court on November 1, 2023, and he is being represented by Jeremy Scileppi, Esq.

On October 5, 2023, at ARNAULTs arraignment on the indictment, Judge Senft ordered him held on $50,000 cash, $100,000 bond, or $500,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. ARNAULT is due back in court on November 2, 2023, and he is being represented by Natasja Bellinger, Esq.

On October 16, 2023, at DIAZs arraignment on the indictment, County Court Judge, the Honorable Anthony S. Senft Jr., ordered him held on $30,000 cash, $60,000 bond, or $90,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. DIAZ is due back in court on November 15, 2023, and is being represented by Anthony Scheller, Esq.

On October 19, 2023, at ARGUETAs arraignment on the indictment, Judge Senft ordered him held on $60,000 cash, $100,000 bond, or $600,000 partially secured bond during the pendency of the case. ARGUETA is due back in court on November 15, 2023, and is being represented by Joseph Cozzo, Esq.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Alexander Sylvan and Elizabeth Lynch of the Major Crime Bureau, with investigative assistance from Detective Alexander Otero of the Suffolk County Police Departments Fourth Squad.
Newville Borough Police on Thursday warned residents about a scam letter that is asking for donations to the "Newville Area Police."

Police said the letters are sent through the U.S. mail and claims to be requesting financial assistance for the purchase of body armor and training.

Police said the letter has not affiliation with its department, and no other entity raises money for the department.

Newville police said it does raise funds occasionally, but rarely requests it of the general public. Funds instead usually comes from businesses.

Police said any mailed requests can be confirmed by calling the department at 717-776-5513.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

According to Feed America, more than 250,000 Long Islanders are food insecure with 79,000 of that number estimated to be children.

The Junior League of Long Island (JLLI) is proud to announce their signature Done in a Day project, Thanksgiving Baskets, taking place on Saturday, November 18th, 2023. Through the "Done in a Day" (DIAD) program, JLLI members have the chance to make an immediate and substantial impact on the local community, as most of these projects are completed within a single day.

Food insecurity on Long Island is a growing concern. According to Feed America, more than 250,000 Long Islanders are food insecure with 79,000 of that number estimated to be children. Of the population of food insecure people in Nassau County 34% and 41% in Suffolk County are ineligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). It is due to this that more than 63,000 Long Islanders do not have enough support to put food on the table.

Every year, JLLI members come together to assemble food baskets, ensuring that families can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner. We are excited that once again, this year, we are able to increase our allocation of baskets from 150 to 175 baskets to help families in need across Long Island. In addition, we are increasing our partners that will be receiving these baskets from six to seven. We are so thankful to our members, our supporters and our community partners who enable us to increase our reach of aid, year-over-year says Jess Torraca, Director of Projects and Research at Long Island Junior League.

In addition to receiving food and monetary donations at our Junior League Thrift Shop, located in the village of Roslyn, we have devoted the roundup of our thrift shop sales to support our Thanksgiving Baskets Project. Donations can be shipped or dropped off at our Thrift Shop during Store Hours up until November 9. For more information on this project and what donations are needed  please visit https://www.jlli.org/ community-projects/2023- thanksgiving-baskets/

Food insecurity on Long Island is at an all-time high, with many community members struggling to put food on the table. The Junior League of Long Island year after year comes together to help put a little dent in that need; especially during the Holidays with our Thanksgiving Basket program. Each of our members, as well as our Thrift Shop community are dedicated to bringing a little bit of comfort to our fellow Long Islanders through donations of food or funds. It brings a smile to everyones face to participate and an honor to be able to serve the community in such a profound way, says Remi Farnan, President of Long Island Junior League.

The Junior League's mission is to promote voluntarism, develop and train volunteers and improve our local communities. Through the fundraising efforts off our League, we are able to accomplish all three initiatives. We strongly believe the work we do is essential to improve our communities. For more details on Thanksgiving Baskets, store hours, and JLLI happenings - please visit www.jlli.org or follow us on Facebook and Instagram @JuniorLeagueLI

About the Junior League of Long Island The Junior League of Long Island is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Tracing its origins to 1951, the Junior League of Long Island has nearly 200 members in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Headquartered in the Village of Roslyn, the Junior League of Long Island is affiliated with the Association of Junior Leagues International an organization of 293 Leagues throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and England. The Junior League of Long Island is designated as a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

Defendants Include Alleged Medication Wholesalers and Pharmacy Owners.

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Naomi Gruchacz, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), announced today the unsealing of Superseding Indictments charging BORIS AMINOV, CHRISTY CORVALAN, IRINA POLVANOVA, ROMAN SHAMALOV, JONATHAN GAVRIELOF, ANTONIO PAYANO, DAVID FERNANDEZ, CRYSTAL MEDINA, JUAN HERNANDEZ, a/k/a Pop, and ALBERT YAGUDAYEV, a/k/a Jeff, in connection with their participation in a years-long scheme to defraud Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance companies out of at least approximately $20 million. POLVANOVA, SHAMALOV, and YAGUDAYEV were arrested this morning and GAVRIELOF was arrested yesterday evening. All four will be presented before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge James L. Cott today. AMINOV, CORVALAN, FERNANDEZ, and MEDINA were previously arrested in connection with an earlier indictment in the case, which is assigned to U.S. District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil. PAYANO and HERNANDEZ remain at large.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: As alleged, the defendants orchestrated a scheme to get rich by lying to Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance companies and depriving vulnerable HIV patients of legitimate and safe medications. The defendants allegedly made millions of dollars through submitting fraudulent insurance claims, paying illegal kickbacks, and buying and selling black-market HIV medications. Todays charges send a clear message that this Office will be tireless in its pursuit of those who seek to line their pockets by lying to federal agencies and preying on vulnerable members of society.

FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: For more than half a decade, the defendants allegedly operated a health care fraud scheme that defrauded taxpayer-funded medical programs. Black market medication frauds like this take advantage of vulnerable members of our community, exposing them to unnecessary risks. The FBI will make sure anyone attempting to illegally benefit from government health care programs is held accountable in the criminal justice system.

HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Naomi Gruchacz said: Health care fraud schemes that divert HIV medication harm patients who actually need the medication as well as put other patients at risk when black market medications are recirculated and dispensed by pharmacies participating in the scheme. HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable individuals who exploit federal health care programs for their own greed.

According to the allegations contained in the Superseding Indictments:[1]

From at least in or about 2017 through at least in or about 2023, AMINOV, CORVALAN, POLVANOVA, SHAMALOV, PAYANO, FERNANDEZ, and MEDINA engaged in a scheme that defrauded Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance companies out of at least approximately $20 million through trafficking in black-market HIV medication. In doing so, they exploited at least hundreds of low-income individuals who had been prescribed HIV medication, jeopardizing the health and safety of those vulnerable patients.

AMINOV and PAYANO distributed black-market HIV medications to pharmacies that were owned and operated by, among others, CORVALAN (the Corvalan Pharmacies), POLVANOVA (the Polvanova Pharmacy), and SHAMALOV (the Shamalov Pharmacy).

After purchasing black-market medication from AMINOV and PAYANO, CORVALAN, POLVANOVA, and SHAMALOV then dispensed that medication to patients of the Corvalan and Polvanova Pharmacies or otherwise distributed it to other pharmacies. FERNANDEZ and MEDINA were employees of the Corvalan Pharmacies who participated in the day-to-day operation of the scheme.

As part of the scheme, CORVALAN, POLVANOVA, FERNANDEZ, MEDINA, HERNANDEZ, and YAGUDAYEV also funded and paid illegal kickbacks to patients in order to recruit patients to their respective pharmacies. CORVALAN, POLVANOVA, FERNANDEZ, MEDINA, HERNANDEZ, and YAGUDAYEV regularly attempted to recruit new patients to increase the number of prescription medications for which the Pharmacies could fraudulently bill government insurance. CORVALAN, FERNANDEZ, and MEDINA also paid patients to sell back their HIV medications to the Corvalan Pharmacies, thereby inducing patients to forego using the medications they were prescribed.

From at least in or about 2021 through at least in or about October 2023, SHAMALOV and POLVANOVA engaged in a related scheme where they bought and then re-sold diverted black-market prescription HIV medication through online prescription drug marketplaces to other pharmacies around the country.

In order to further their schemes and conceal their proceeds, CORVALAN, POLVANOVA, and SHAMALOV used bank accounts associated with their respective pharmacies to funnel money to shell companies controlled by AMINOV.

The defendants spent the proceeds of the scheme to purchase luxury cars, including a 2021 Mercedes-Benz Maybach with an estimated fair market value of approximately $245,000; waterfront real-estate, including two properties in the Bronx purchased for a total of approximately $2.4 million; designer clothes; and jewelry and gold.

AMINOV, 47, of Brooklyn, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

CORVALAN, 41, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

POLVANOVA, 47, of Queens, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison; one count of mail fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

SHAMALOV, 47, of Queens, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of mail fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

GAVRIELOF, 28, of Woodmere, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

PAYANO, 34, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

FERNANDEZ, 24, and MEDINA, 28, both of the Bronx, New York, are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and health care fraud, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison; one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison; and one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

HERNANDEZ, 63, of New York, New York, and YAGUDAYEV, 35, of Queens, New York, are charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Anti-Kickback Statute, which carries a maximum potential sentence of five years in prison.

The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and HHS-OIG.

This case is being handled by the Offices General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeffrey W. Coyle and Jackie Delligatti are in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Local News

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2023

Announced During Farm-to-School Month, Program Provides $50 Million Over Five Years to Help Improve Kitchens and Cook Meals for Students Using New York Farm Products.

Administered by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, the Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program will provide the resources schools need to aggregate, store, process, and prepare farm products, and make it possible to cook fresh, nutritious, scratch made meals for school children. It will also encourage workforce development by providing training to schools, communities, and students for culinary arts, food processing, safe food handling and storage, logistics, delivery, and more, based on community need.

Project proposals should be regionally focused on improving meal preparation for K-12 school children, reducing food insecurity, increasing market opportunities for New York State producers, and strengthening the resilience of our states food system. The program requires that funded facilities serve multiple school districts and support their local community, including by providing workforce development opportunities. In this round of funding, two regions will be awarded $5 million each. Two additional regions will be awarded $5 million each in subsequent rounds, until all regions are awarded.

Grant funds are available for the costs of capital projects to support the preparation and distribution of fresh meals for regional school infrastructure, such as aggregation, storage hubs, and/or commissary-type kitchens. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit organizations, local municipalities, school districts, and Boards of Cooperative Education Services (BOCES).

Proposals are due on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 3:00 pm. For more information on the program, project eligibility, and how to apply, visit here. Additionally, an optional webinar will be held on November 29, 2023, at 12:00 pm. To register, visit here. The workshop will be recorded and posted on the Departments website.

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, Currently, many school districts rely on heat-and-serve methods and use highly processed foods because they lack the equipment and time to cook from scratch. The Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program will help regional organizations store, process, and prepare farm products to provide students with fresh-made food, reduce food insecurity, increase market opportunities, and strengthen the resilience of our states food system. We thank Governor Hochul for her support of this program.

New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, Currently, many school districts rely on heat-and-serve methods and use highly processed foods because they lack the equipment and time to cook from scratch. The Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program will help regional organizations store, process, and prepare farm products to provide students with fresh-made food, reduce food insecurity, increase market opportunities, and strengthen the resilience of our states food system. We thank Governor Hochul for her support of this program.

State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, Every school across New York State should have the equipment and capacity to store, process, and cook fresh, healthy New York-grown food, and yet many lack the physical infrastructure to sustain farm-to-school meals, which our students so deserve. The Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program will be instrumental in helping our schools get locally sourced, nutritious food into more cafeterias while expanding market opportunities for our farmers, and I encourage all eligible school districts to apply.

Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, The Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program is a new initiative designed to help schools better prepare meals with fresh, local produce. There are numerous economic and nutritional benefits associated with supporting our local farmers, including strengthening local food systems and providing better quality meals. Additionally, the workforce training requirement will ensure that all parts of the supply chain are being improved. Id like to thank Governor Hochul for advancing this important initiative.

President of the New York School Nutrition Association Caitlin A. Lazarski said, "The Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program will provide opportunities for schools across New York State to continue to provide high quality, fresh, and local foods to their students. Many schools do not have the space or equipment needed to process and prepare food directly from our regional farms. This funding will reduce the barriers to providing these foods to our children."

New York States Fiscal Year 2024 Enacted Budget includes additional tools to help school districts procure and purchase farm products from local producers, ensuring that New York remains New York's first and best customer. Specifically, the Budget raises the discretionary threshold for food purchasing for schools to $150,000, a significant increase from the previous threshold.

These initiatives build on New Yorks many programs to support local foods in schools, including the successful Farm-to-School program, which connects schools with local farms and food producers to strengthen local agriculture, improve student health, and promote regional food systems awareness. Through the program, the Department of Agriculture and Markets provides financial, technical, and promotional assistance to schools, farms, distributors, and other supporting organizations to bring more local, nutritious, seasonally varied meals to New York students. The Farm-to-School program supports the New York State Council on Hunger and Food Policys priorities to initiate and facilitate public awareness campaigns about the economic benefits of a local farm and food economy; alleviate geographic and economic barriers to improve access to healthy fresh food; and promote well-balanced child nutrition.

The 30 Percent New York State Initiative further facilitates the provision of healthy New York sourced food products to children as part of their lunch meal in school. The initiative increases the reimbursement schools receive for lunches from 5.9 cents per meal to 25 cents per meal for any district that ensures their school lunches are made up of at least 30 percent eligible New York produced and processed products. Since the Department of Agriculture and Markets took over administration of the program as part of Governor Hochuls 2022 State of the State commitment to better connect farms and schools across New York, the program has seen increased participation from school food authorities, with a total of 59 school food authorities approved to receive enhanced reimbursement during this school year, up from 51 approved for reimbursement last year. In total, more than $8 million was spent on New York agricultural products during the 2022-2023 school year by schools applying for the incentive. In addition, the Governor's recent actions to support Farm-to-School initiatives included in the FY 2024 State Budget significantly raised the discretionary threshold for schools to purchase local food and food products from $20,000 to $150,000.
The Israel Defense Force conducted its first large raid into the Gaza Strip overnight between Wednesday and Thursday. The Givati brigade, which has been training for specialized urban warfare over the last week, led the assault. The raid included tanks and vehicles, as well aa armored D-9 bulldozers which opened a path through a berm on the border.

During the activity, soldiers located and struck numerous terrorists, terror infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts, and operated to prepare the battlefield, the IDF said in a statement. The forces returned after the raid, there were no IDF casualties, according to the IDF.

The latest advance by Israel served as a table setter for the next phase of combat. Overnight marked the first real ground operation since Oct. 7 when Israel had to rush soldiers and units south to stop the Hamas invasion and massacre that killed 1,400 civilians and soldiers that day. Since that day, there has been growing pressure on Israel to begin a ground incursion. Officers and politicians have said Israel will defeat Hamas. However there is also pressure from the international community to get humanitarian aid into Gaza first.

Israel has called on Gazans to leave northern Gaza and head south. On Oct. 26 the IDF noted that its Intelligence Directorate (J2) has made numerous calls to civilians, encouraging them to leave. However, Israel asserts that they have learned from these calls that Hamas is trying to prevent the civilians from leaving in an effort to use them as human shields. This came as the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza claimed more than 7,000 people have been killed in almost three weeks of Israeli airstrikes. President Joe Biden has said he has no confidence in the Palestinian death count.

Israel also continued airstrikes on the evening of Oct. 25-26. More than 250 terror targets were struck overnight. Israel said this included terror infrastructure, operational command centers, tunnel shafts, and rocket launchers placed in the heart of civilian areas that fired toward Israeli territory throughout the war. Israel also carried out a strike from its navy at sea, targeting a surface-to-air missile launch post near Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip.

Meanwhile, the Gaza Division and the Directorate of Borders and Buffer Zone in Israels Ministry of Defense and the Technological and Logistics Directorate have actively worked to repair the border fence along the Gaza Strip. This smart fence is supposed to have a plethora of sensors and provide eyes into Gaza. However, Hamas attacked it at 29 points on Oct. 7 and damaged many parts of it. The sites of the attack were searched and cleared of explosive devices alongside the installation of new systems in the area, the IDF said. We have all enlisted for the benefit of the mission and we will operate at all hours of the day and in any area that is required. We will continue to work together in cooperation to strengthen control of the area, one of the officers involved in the maintenance said.

On the home front, Israel has tried to increase funding for the border communities that were evacuated in the first weeks of the war. Some 200,000 Israelis are now staying in hotels and guest houses around Israel. The communities on the border also need repairs and need new safe rooms and other protections. In addition cities such as Ashkelon near Gaza, targeted with hundreds of rockets, require more safe rooms. The Home Front command in Israel and the defense ministry both gave briefings on Thursday. The government continued to emphasize for civilians to take shelter when there are sirens. Several rockets have fallen on buildings in the last day even though the rocket fire from Gaza has reduced greatly. Israel has not released data on the number of rockets fired, unlike in previous wars. Reports say the U.S. is sendingtwo Iron Dome batteries to Israel. These batteries were acquired by the U.S. army three years ago.

The IDF also said it continued to target Hamas commanders throughout the day. The IDF said that the Deputy Head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate, who was responsible for planning the Oct. 7th massacre together with Yahya Sinwar, was killed. Sinwar is the most senior leader of Hamas in Gaza. Most other Hamas leaders reside abroad, such as in Doha.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the acting news editor and senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post.

Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here.
The Ukrainian Air Force commander on Monday shared the first public video of the American-made HAWK air defense system in action in Ukraine. In the video, the systems MIM-23 surface-to-air missiles streak across the night sky before culminating in fiery explosions, apparently over the Black Sea. Western weapons have proven and continue to prove their effectiveness on the battlefield! the commander proclaimed.

As they prepare to defend their cities against Russian missile and drone strikes this winter, Ukrainian forces are short on air defenses. While Western countries have few modern air defense systems to spare, additional HAWKs are on the way  and Kyiv hopes for more.

Beginning in October 2022, Russia launched a strategic air campaign targeting Ukraines critical infrastructure, particularly its power grid. Missiles and Iranian-supplied Shahed drones bombarded Ukrainian cities as Moscow sought to freeze the country into submission. Ukraine ultimately withstood the onslaught, but it was a close-run affair.

Now, Ukrainian officials fear that Russia is gearing up for another strike campaign this winter. Moscow is stockpiling missiles, they warn, while Russian industry has increased production of key munitions, such as the Kh-101 air-launched cruise missile. With Irans help, Russia has also begun producing Shahed drones itself in an effort to expand its supply. Ukraine, meanwhile, heads into the winter with its power grid still somewhat hobbled from last year.

Ukraine lacks enough air defenses to protect all its vast territory. The capital is well-defended, but other cities less so. Moreover, due to its air defense shortage, Kyiv faces a dilemma between shielding forces near the front line and protecting sites in the rear. The Ukrainians may have to pull more systems back to defend cities this winter, affording Russian aircraft greater latitude near the front line.

To make matters worse, Ukraine is running low on interceptor missiles for its Soviet-made air defense systems. In some cases, efforts to integrate those systems with Western interceptors have achieved success and should come online soon, although Russia has already destroyed a significant portion of Kyivs Soviet-made launchers and radars.

The United States and its allies have helped fill the gap by donating a variety of Western-made air defense systems, which have generally performed well. But Western countries do not have many modern systems left to give, and production cant move fast enough to meet Ukraines immediate needs.

This scarcity has forced the West to dust off an older system  the HAWK. Short for Homing All the Way Killer, the HAWK is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system. It first entered service with the U.S. military in 1960. The United States and various other countries later fielded upgraded versions, including the Improved HAWK (or I-HAWK) Phase III, which the U.S. military retired over two decades ago. Some countries later fielded a more advanced version, the Hawk XXI. This model incorporates, among other things, the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar, which Ukraine has already received from the United States.

While the HAWK may not be as good as modern systems, it is better than nothing. We will not say no to any weapons, the head of the Kyiv City Military Administration stressed on Monday, noting that Russia had launched over 700 missiles and Shahed drones at the Ukrainian capital over the last year. In fact, Ukrainian air defense specialists praise the Hawk and want more, particularly the Phase III version.

The trouble is finding donors who are both willing to part with their HAWKs and kept them in decent condition. Back in October 2022, when the Biden administration was first considering sending the HAWK to Ukraine, an American official indicated that the U.S. militarys HAWK systems were in poor repair. The administration reportedly encountered a similar problem when it asked Israel for its retired HAWKs, which have been left in open-air storage for over a decade.

Washington ended up donating MIM-23 missiles to complement six HAWK launchers pledged by Spain. (A typical HAWK battery includes six launchers plus various radars and fire-control equipment.) At least some of the missiles have required refurbishment before delivery. The United States has been revamping donated HAWK systems for Ukraine under its so-called FrankenSAM initiative, per a senior Pentagon official.

Madrid reportedly possesses multiple different HAWK variants, including the Phase III. Ukrainian troops apparently trained on that model in Spain last winter. But according to Foreign Policy, the system arrived in Ukraine without its radars. That could help explain the long delay between the initial delivery and Mondays video.

In February, Sweden said it would donate unspecified HAWK subsystems to Kyiv. That may be where the radars came from. It is also possible that Ukraine, with Western help, integrated its HAWK launchers with its AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radars to field the more modern XXI version.

Following the initial pledges, Washington announced it would procure additional HAWK systems and missiles for Ukraine. In July, Taiwanese media reported that the United States had agreed to repurchase systems recently retired by Taiwan, which operated the Phase III version.

More assistance will soon be on the way. Earlier this month, Madrid pledged an additional six Hawk launchers. They will be integrated into a U.S.-provided battery, Spains defense minister explained, presumably meaning Washington will provide the other components. In response to a U.S. request, Spain will also provide training for Ukrainian operators and maintainers beginning next month, she added. Kyiv will probably send troops who previously operated Soviet-made air defense systems, as it did for previous HAWK training in Spain.

In addition to the aforementioned countries, at least eight U.S. allies and partners reportedly still operate the HAWK, according to The Military Balance 2023. Others have HAWKs in storage. Notably, Romania and Jordan operate the Phase III version. Ukraine has already received other types of air defense systems from Jordan, probably supplied indirectly via the United States or another Western country.

The HAWK may be old, but it is making a difference for Ukraine. As winter approaches, Kyiv no doubt hopes its Western backers can scrounge up more HAWKs  and soon.

John Hardie is the deputy director of FDDs Russia Program and a contributor to FDD's Long War Journal.

Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here.
(Alliance News) - Stocks in Europe went into the afternoon on the up, while the pound also rose, as the Bank of England cautioned that monetary policy...
Effort to meet EU security rules to use local staff and site, but centre works with Google technology

A cloud computing structure that keeps the data of Luxembourgs government, banks and other highly regulated businesses in the Grand Duchy is taking shape as demand spreads across Europe.

State-owned data center operator LuxConnect and Belgian telecommunications company Proximus will license Google cloud technology to operate their so-called sovereign cloud venture in Luxembourg that was announced in March, the companies said on Wednesday.

A sovereign cloud keeps an organisation's data and metadata on servers located within the country, meaning storage is protected from foreign access by the US, Chinese or other governments.

The Luxembourg sovereign cloud is part of a trend that seeks to comply with the EUs strict data privacy laws in the face of US regulations that can force American companies like Google, Microsoft and Amazon Web Services (AWS) to turn over data. The goal is that sovereign clouds, managed entirely by European organisations even if they offer services from the US tech giants, will be outside the reach of foreign government data demands.

Microsoft and Oracle have also launched their cloud versions for European government customers, and AWS said on Wednesday it will launch a sovereign cloud service in Germany available to all European customers, Reuters reported.

Google also offered more details on Wednesday of the US technology giants new Luxembourg office, saying it will include a team developing its cloud business in Europe that will collaborate with researchers at the University of Luxembourg and local institutes. Google's long-discussed plans to build an energy-intensive data centre in Bissen are on indefinite hold.

Luxembourgs data centres have for years been used to store sensitive information for NATO and the EU as well as countries like Estonia and Monaco in a push that these governments labelled e-embassies.

(This story was first published in the Luxemburger Wort. Edited with additional reporting by Emery P. Dalesio)
Information is from police reports and may be incomplete depending on the status of an investigation. Phone numbers are nonemergency.
Stroll through the ruins of Medfield State Hospital and the creaks of aged wood, taps inside the buildings from small animals and the rustle of leaves make it one of the spookiest places to visit in October or really any time of year.

Currently at 495 acres, the asylum opened in May 1896, accepting its first 120 patients from Taunton, Danvers, Northampton, Westborough and Boston, according to the Medfield Historical Society. One year later, around 1,000 patients were hospitalized, with four people dying each week.

It was the kind of place  as was the norm for the time  where if your child had a developmental disability, you dropped them off and never saw them again, said Johnny Dalton, the lead audio engineer for one of the hospitals current attractions and an expert on the hospitals history. But if that was your lot in life, the Medfield State Hospital was the place to be. It was a fully self-functional community. I think at the height of it, the town of Medfield housed 4,000 people and a good chunk of them lived at the hospital.

After over a century of abuse, torment and sadness resulting from changing medical practices at the hospital, Bellforge Arts Center is now in the position of engaging with a sense of historical healing, Dalton said. Through the arts, it aims to soothe hearts and minds in its own way.

One of those is through its outdoor concerts.

You tell every band, Hey, we have a show ready for you at an abandoned mental asylum, and theyre super excited about it, Dalton said. They get here and we have an awesome sound system to play through, if I dont say so myself.

History of abuse

By 1913, the hospitals population reached 1,700, according to the historical society. Over the next several years, beatings, the formation of a prison camp housing Charlestown jail inmates and the outbreak of the Spanish flu in 1918 throttled the hospital. Prosecutions of assaulters were swift. Electroshock treatments were used on patients in 1938, the historical society noted. Dalton added that lobotomies were a common practice at the hospital.

Between 1940 and the start of the 1950s, reports of overcrowding and a staff decline due to World War II placed strain on the hospital, the historical society said. The introduction of new drugs and practices, under the leadership of Dr. Harold Lee, put the hospital on track to becoming a renowned hospital as more patients were rehabilitated and discharged.

Low population numbers by the 1970s led to the first talks of closing the hospital, but it stayed open until the turn of the 21st century, the historical society said. Signs of deterioration, along with concern from Medfield residents over patients declared criminally insane from Bridgewater State Hospital led to the hospitals closure on April 13, 2003.

For the next 20 years, grass and weeds have grown over the grounds. Signs on the doors of buildings warn of asbestos exposure. Now and again, ghost hunters and sightseers come to the grounds in search of something haunted, Dalton said. Similar to Salem, it especially draws visitors in the fall. One walks the grounds typically seeing joggers or people walking their dogs off-leash despite signs urging otherwise.

Im sure the architecture lends itself to that feeling, this late Victorian style you dont really see in the area, Dalton said of the spooky nature to the campus. These imposing, brick facades and beautiful architecture.

Moving forward

Preservation efforts by historians, Medfields Board of Selectmen and Bostons Trinity Financial, as of January 2022, have put residents and creatives on the path to making use of the deserted space while maintaining the integrity of the ruins.

This is where Dalton and the Bellforge Arts Center enter the picture. Established in 2018, the arts centers founders secured in 2020 a 99-year lease with the town to use Lee Chapel and its neighboring infirmity building as a way for the next generation of families who seek to fulfill their need for the arts, outdoor activity, reflection and learning, the art centers website said.

In an odd echo to the present, the hospital previously formed an orchestra for performances, all while the Great Depression impacted the hospitals staff size, the historical society said.

Read more: Massachusetts has one of the best haunted hotels in the US

Prior to Bellforges founding and Trinitys involvement in restoring the area, Dalton said the other option was do nothing and it crumbles to dust. The quad outside Lee Chapel, the largest building on the campus, serves as the performance space for live shows at the hospital in whats mostly a quiet town.

To have a fun night out and see a cool show, or do any number of very fun activities, youve got to go an hour-ish north to Boston, an hour-ish south to Rhode Island or an hour west to Worcester, Dalton said. The end result is there isnt going to be a bad seat in the house, which is really exciting.

Read more: New England has one of the scariest haunted houses in the US

Outdoor shows in the grassy space next to the chapel began in 2022, and was well received, Dalton said. Shows that include Fun at the Forge, Endless Summer of Endless Colors, Oktoberfests, Pride and Juneteenth celebrations and various Shakespeare performances, among others, draw crowds in a safe outdoor space.

While the first renovation to the chapel has been completed, by carefully removing lead-painted plaster and asbestos installations, a gallery space will bridge the chapel and the infirmary. The chapel is set to host a performance hall, with the infirmary serving as a space for visual arts, practice rooms and a music studio.

The summer and fall seasons were met with one ongoing challenge: rainy weekends have resulted in some shows being postponed or canceled.

Yeah, thats the only bummer so far, Dalton said. As successful as this year has been, for everybody it has been an insanely wet outdoor season. Environmentally, its great after last years drought but its really pushed things out.

With one more show lined up for Oct. 28 before going on break until Spring 2024, Bellforges board is hopeful that the full renovation of the chapel and infirmary space will be open to future artists by 2026. Until then, Daltons thrilled by what they have accomplished.

This second year of programming has been really awesome, he continued. Every show, everything that weve done has had more people, a bigger attendance. We recognize faces every week. Lately, we havent been recognizing the faces, so its really exciting to see new people at shows in real-time.
During a press conference Thursday morning, hours after a mass shooting killed over a dozen people at a bar and bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine Gov. Janet Mills expressed sadness over the loss of lives and determination to hunt down the suspected shooter.

Im profoundly saddened to stand before you today to report 18 people have lost their lives and 13 people are in the hospital, Mills said.

The shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away, in Lewiston on Wednesday night killed at least 18 people.

Mills said she had been in contact with the Biden administration. She said the president expressed support and offered to help in hunting down the suspect and helping all impacted by Wednesdays shooting. Biden will order flags across the country to be at half-staff for five days, Mills added.

There are still many things we do not know about this attack, but the weight of my administration is behind law enforcement to catch this man, Mills said.

Look, Lewiston is a special place, Mills said. Lewiston is where I worked for years, where I met my husband and raised our girls. Im so deeply saddened. This city did not deserve this assault on its peace of mind. No city does, not state, no people.

Grief counselors and other mental health services will be available for Maine residents, including family members of those who lost loved ones in Lewiston, Mills said. She added that we need to help our communities heal, and urged people call or text 988 for help.

All Maine people are sharing in the sorrows of those who lost loved ones last night, Mills said.

Several of the victims have been identified, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said during the press conference. So far, 10 people were not identified, he said.

The shootings at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston on Wednesday night engulfed the states second-largest city in chaos. Suspected shooter Robert Card, 40, remains at large as authorities ordered residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets.

The bar was hosting an industry night where employees from bars and restaurants got 25% off their bill.

Maine State Police identified Robert Card as a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings. Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine. Card was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

If you come into contact with this individual, or someone who looks like this individual, call 911, Ross said.
As the search for a Gardner man suspected of killing his wife continues into its fifth day, the arrest warrant reveals that on Saturday, Oct. 21, he planned his actions before shooting her.

Breanne Pennington, 30, of 42 Cherry St. was found dead inside a home at 42 Cherry Street around 9:14 a.m. on Oct. 22 after police were called for a reported disturbance. Aaron Pennington, 33, also of Gardner, was Breannes husband.

Read more: Aaron Pennington left the Air Force in February 2023

The arrest warrant, obtained by WCVB, which shared much of the same information detailed in a Gardner District Court affidavit obtained by MassLive on Monday, charges Pennington with the murder of his wife. It also includes one discovery made after a search warrant was issued to look into certain contents on Penningtons phone.

After reviewing a limited portion of the cell phones content, investigators learned that there was a note from (7:04 p.m.) on Saturday, Oct. 21, that stated: Dont say anything. Be (quiet.) If she wakes up just say youre getting nasal spray.

Get on side of bed  very close proximity to head, the note continues. Put hole in her head.

The affidavit read that at around 9:14 a.m., Kerri McDermott, a neighbor of the Penningtons, called 911 to Gardner police after she asked for help after the Penningtons four children came over to her house scared because they could not find their father and their mother was in her bedroom crying. The children also told McDermott that their fathers car was not in the driveway.

Police arrived within five minutes and found Breanne in bed in an upstairs bedroom with a gunshot wound to the face, court documents said. Officers did not find anyone else at the home. Breanne was pronounced dead at 9:30 a.m. and the Chief Medical Examiners office was notified.

Following interviews and a video surveillance canvass of the neighborhood, investigators determined that Pennington and Breanne were having marital issues for a while, court documents said. He suffered from mental health issues for a while and had threatened suicide, while Breanne was planning to move to Texas and take the children with her to be away from him.

She was also known to have a firearm at the residence for her protection, court documents read, but neither had a license to carry firearms in Massachusetts. After a search warrant was issued, a gun was not found in the home. Three spent shell casings were found in the bedroom Breanne was in.

At around 8:50 a.m., Pennington was seen leaving the homes driveway in a 2013 BMW 320 sedan. At around 9:07 a.m., the children left the residence and went to McDermotts house next door.

Four children, ages 2, 5, 7, and 9, were living in the home and had went to their neighbors house, Worcester County District Attorney James Early Jr. said during a press conference Sunday night. Early said they are safe and in the custody of the Department of Children and Families.

He is described as a white male with blonde hair, blue eyes, 6 feet 2 inches and around 175 pounds. No one should approach Pennington as he should be considered armed and dangerous, according to Massachusetts State Police.

It was on Monday night that a bow hunter making his way through Camp Collier near the Ashburnham line found Penningtons BMW.

Please, no one in the public go out and try and look for this guy, Early said at a press conference on Tuesday. If you run into the guy, call the Gardner police, call the state police, call the police department and just back off from anything you might see. But provide us with the information you might get.

Anyone who sees Pennington or the suspected vehicle should call 911, Gardner police at 978-632-5600 or Massachusetts State Police at 508-829-8236. The investigation into the death is ongoing by State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorneys Office and the Gardner Police Department.
HOLYOKE  Yarielis Martin, a senior at Springfield Central High School, was surprised Thursday to learn about all the different aspects of medicine a physician assistant can practice.

Jessie Dorne, a physician assistant with 10 years experience who now works at Baystate Gynecologic Oncology in Springfield, was more than happy to tell her of the career paths flexibility.

I love my midwife friends. I love my nurse practitioner friends. We all work well together, Dorne said. But, if I decide tomorrow I want to work in surgery, I go and get a job in surgery.

Baystate Health, the regions largest health care provider, hosted more than 150 students  high school kids, undergraduates, workforce program participants and current employees interested in a career change  Thursday at its Health Education Center in Holyoke. It was a first-of-its-kind event designed not only to showcase health care careers but to outline the education pathway to getting those jobs, said Jason Pacheco, director of workforce planning for Baystate.

Baystate averages about 13,000 employees, but its got 1,400 unfilled positions now. Thats better  the number of unfilled jobs was 1,600 a few months ago  but the lack of staff is concerning not just for Baystate but for the entire health care sector.

With one in five people in health care leaving the profession since the pandemic, we really need to do more of this outreach, he said. We are working to build networks for co-ops and work experiences. Expect to see something in the spring.

Its the same problem the state is trying to solve by offering free community college tuition to 3,000 nursing students.

But its hard. For one thing, with staffing shortages, no one has time to invest in co-op or internship programs that could develop the next generation of professionals.

Its a paradox, he said.

Also, Baystate is limited by staffing and the lingering restrictions of COVID in its ability to bring students into many of its facilities, said Peter Blain, manager of the Baystate Springfield Educational Partnership program, which is Baystates partnership with city high schools.

There is a lot of interest, he said.

Anthony Santiago, a Central High School science teacher, brought his anatomy and physiology class of juniors and seniors to the event.

Even though they might have an interest in health care, they dont know about all the opportunities open to them.

They can go into much greater detail about all of the career pathways that are available, he said. They can see what some of these professions do. They can talk with people.

Students got to practice CPR; handle surgical tools and learn how they are processed and sterilized for re-use; do a mock cancer screening on an anatomical model; and watch an ultrasound machine work.

Area colleges also were there to present training programs. Pacheco said the careers available range from certificate programs open to recent high school graduates to jobs that require post-college study.

Anyone who wants to be on a mailing list will go on our mailing list about future opportunities, Pacheco said.
In the wake of another mass shooting, President Joe Biden on Thursday urged Republican legislators to pass several gun control measures to fulfill their duty to protect the American people, a White House statement said.

On Wednesday, 18 people were killed at a bar and bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine. The suspected shooter, Robert Card, 40, has so far been charged with eight counts of murder. This is expected to increase as more of those killed are identified by families and next of kin.

Biden also urged area residents to heed the warnings and guidance of local officials. Maine State Police urged Wednesday night and Thursday for residents to shelter in place and, in case anyone sees Card, to call 911. He echoed what Gov. Janet Mills said at a press conference on Thursday, that he would support her and local law enforcement until Card is found and to help those impacted by the mass shooting.

The president then asked Republican lawmakers in Congress to take action in the wake of whats happened.

Today, in the wake of yet another tragedy, I urge Republican lawmakers in Congress to fulfill their duty to protect the American people, he said. Work with us to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, to enact universal background checks, to require safe storage of guns and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers. This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars  physical and mental  of this latest attack.

Law enforcement officials on Thursday said that Cards whereabouts continue to be unknown.

A police intelligence bulletin, reviewed by The Associated Press, was being circulated to law enforcement officials on Wednesday night. It said Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The president also ordered all flags to be lowered at half-staff for the next five days out of respect for the shooting victims.
Lindsay Clancy used her cell phone to look up Can you treat a sociopath? four days before shes accused of strangling her children with exercise bands in their Duxbury home, according to a Plymouth County prosecutor.

New details emerged on Thursday during an arraignment for Clancy, 33, that took place at Tewksbury Hospital where she remains hospitalized. She faces three counts each of murder and strangulation after being indicted by a Plymouth County grand jury in September.

The Duxbury mother is charged in connection with the deaths of her children, 5-year-old Cora Clancy and 3-year-old Dawson Clancy on Jan. 24. Prosecutors said Lindsay Clancy also injured her infant son Callan Clancy, who died days later in a hospital.

Notes kept on Clancys phone provided insights into her state of mind in the days leading up to the childrens deaths, and the medications she was taking and showed that her writing was clear and precise and articulate, according to the Plymouth prosecutor.

Court documents unsealed earlier this week provided another example of an online search made by Clancy in the days before Jan. 24. Investigators stated that Clancy used her cell phone to look up ways to kill.

Read more: Lindsay Clancy pleads not guilty to 3 counts of murder in deaths of Duxbury children

Lindsay Clancy appears on the right, wearing a mask, during her arraignment on three charges each of murder and strangulation in connection with her children's deaths. She was arraigned at Tewksbury Hospital where remains hospitalized after severe spinal injuries and a suicide attempt on the night of the children's deaths.Screenshot from Zoom meeting.

Thursdays arraignment

Plymouth County Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague said at Thursdays arraignment that Clancys husband, Patrick, described her as having one of her best days and that there were no signs she might harm her children.

Patrick Clancy told police that she was smiling and happy. Sprague said no one described her as acting like a zombie in the days leading up to the deaths of the three children.

Clancys defense attorney, Kevin Reddington, later contradicted Sprague and said that her husband did describe her as acting like a zombie due to postpartum depression and problems with medications she was prescribed.

She consistently denied hearing voices, having any kind of visual or auditory hallucinations, to all her treatment providers leading up to this incident, Sprague said.

Sprague described how Clancy told her husband that she thought about harming herself  and on one occasion harming the children  but that she did not voice those concerns after a five-day stay at a hospital.

Clancy admitted herself to McLean Hospital from Jan. 1 to Jan. 5 and when she was discharged, the hospital did not file any paperwork to have her committed as a danger to herself or others, according to Sprague.

The prosecutor then described the wounds found on Clancys children from ligature strangulation  meaning strangulation from a rope or cord. A medical examiner determined that Dawson, the 3-year-old boy, struggled the most, or was strangled the hardest, or both, based on marks on his neck and face.

Clancy pleaded not guilty at her arraignment on Thursday and a judge ordered her to remain held at Tewksbury Hospital after finding her at a serious risk of imminent self-harm.

At Clancys initial district court arraignment in February, Sprague described how she is accused of strangling her children with exercise bands before jumping out of the houses second-story window in an attempted suicide  on Thursday, Sprague recounted many of the same details.

Defense attorney Kevin Reddington described Clancy as a marvelous mother at Thursdays arraignment and said that he walked through the house where there were artworks and photographs in every room that showed Clancy and her husbands devotion to their children.

Shes a woman who was obviously struggling from postpartum depression, Reddington said. This woman was a troubled soul.

Reddington said that he believes Clancy has a good defense and a very strong case should it go to trial.

Clancy was on several medications, which she tracked carefully in notebooks and cell phone notes, and Reddington said she was having problems with the medications. Her husband told doctors she was acting like a zombie in the weeks leading up to their childrens deaths, according to Reddington.

DUXBURY, MA - January 31: A makeshift memorial continues to grow on January 31, 2023 in Duxbury, Massachusetts in front of the home of Lindsay Clancy who strangled her three children last week and then tried to take her own life. (Photo by Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald via Getty Images)MediaNews Group via Getty Images

What happened on Jan. 24?

Duxbury police said they received a call from Clancys husband Patrick on Jan. 24, who, according to prosecutors, had returned home from ThreeV, a restaurant in Plymouth, to find three unconscious children with obvious signs of trauma and attempted suicide by his wife.

Clancy was taken to a local hospital. She was later moved to Tewksbury State Hospital and ordered to stay for six months so doctors could provide extensive mental health care.

During Clancys initial court appearance in February, Sprague described the Duxbury mother as a person in control and aware of her emotions, often consulting her husband when she had suicidal thoughts, in the days leading up to the death of her three children.

The prosecutor said Clancy asked her husband on the day of the murders to run a handful of errands, including picking up products at a CVS and food from a restaurant. It was at that time, prosecutors argued, that Clancy deliberately strangled her three children, killing two of them and leaving the youngest injured.

She later jumped out of a window after injuring herself, prosecutors said.

Investigators also found four medication bottles prescribed to Clancy when they searched the home the day after the childrens deaths, according to court documents.

Investigators collected several electronic devices from the residence where the children were strangled at 47 Summer St., such as Clancys pink iPhone, a laptop and a tablet. They wrote in affidavits that they sought to search these devices because they could uncover evidence that she planned her attempted suicide or the killings of her children.

Investigators are also aware that Ms. Clancy used her cellular telephone and her journal to document her mental state and her feelings about her children, in addition to keeping track of her medications and researching ways to kill, according to the affidavits.

This weeks unsealed court documents contain 11 search warrants sought by Massachusetts State Police in the months after the childrens deaths.

The records, however, do not reveal how investigators discovered that Clancy had used her cell phone to research ways to kill. An impoundment order on the records expired on Monday.

An online donation drive to support Patrick Clancy surpassed $1 million. In a message posted there, Patrick Clancy asked people to find it deep within yourselves to forgive Lindsay, as I have.

The real Lindsay was generously loving and caring towards everyone - me, our kids, family, friends, and her patients, he wrote. The very fibers of her soul are loving. All I wish for her now is that she can somehow find peace.
The Knights Inn in Hadley is providing shelter for nine families as part of the Massachusetts emergency shelter system  which is nearing capacity and a cap is set to go into effect on Nov. 1.

In total, there are 34 people are being housed at the Route 9 hotel, a mix of unhoused people from Massachusetts and new arrivals to the state, according to statements from the Town of Hadley and the states Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

Hadley officials were notified two weeks ago that the Knights Inn would be designated as a supplemental shelter for the states emergency shelter program that houses homeless and migrant families under the 1983 right to shelter law, according to a statement by Hadley Town Administrator Carolyn Brennans office.

There were some single moms, theres babies, young children, Brennan told Western Mass News. We really had to do an assessment of the needs. There were prescriptions that needed to be filled. There were daycare issues, transportation issues, food issues.

Brennan could not be reached for direct comment on Wednesday.

The law provides shelter to eligible families and pregnant individuals who are facing a housing crisis. Since August 2022, the emergency shelter system has expanded each month to meet an increased need.

As of Oct. 24, there are 7,202 families in the emergency family shelter system. Nearly half of the current shelter population are new arrivals to the state, according to the states housing office. About half of the family shelter population are children.

Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll warned last week that the states emergency shelter system is nearing capacity and that starting Nov. 1 families wishing to seek emergency housing will be placed on a waitlist.

The two factors that have led to an increased need for family shelter are the high cost and limited availability of housing in the state and an influx of new arrivals to Massachusetts fleeing violence and instability in their home countries, according to the states housing office.

Hadley town officials pulled together a task force to establish a way to provide basic needs, ensure that families were cared for and that the town had a holistic understanding of how to prepare to meet those needs, according to the towns statement.

Its unclear how many of the residents sheltered at the Hadley hotel were migrants or unhoused people originally from Massachusetts.

Members of the towns public safety, board of health, building commissioner, superintendent of schools and town administrator gathered to form a communication strategy and identify resources.

The Hadley Police Department met with the National Guard to learn about potential stress points and concerns shared by other supplemental shelters in the state, according to Brennans office.

The school superintendent met with the families to schedule an orientation for the recently sheltered children.

Brennans office wrote that there are no direct costs for Hadley at the moment associated with the housing of the families and that departments will keep track of any expenditures.

It is anticipated that the governor will release funds to reimburse municipalities for their expenses, Brennans office stated.

In order to qualify for emergency family shelter assistance, families must be in the country with the knowledge and consent of federal immigration authorities, according to the states housing office.

Non-citizens eligible for emergency shelter are either living with someone who is a U.S. citizen, a non-citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence, or a person with permission by the Department of Homeland Security to reside in the country  such as migrants with pending asylum applications.
After weeks of enduring terrifying airstrikes and dwindling supplies, a Medway family trapped in Gaza in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war experienced a glimmer of hope.

Explosions have continued to pummel the area in Rafah where Abood Okal, Wafaa Abuzayda and their 1-year-old son Yousef Okal have been sheltering, but they got an unexpected visitor.

Yesterday, out of nowhere, a kitten showed up at our front door, Okal said in an audio message sent by text on Thursday. Clearly it belongs to someone as she had a collar on and was very friendly and not afraid of human beings.

Okal said Yousef loves cats and other animals, particularly the familys dog Lily back home.

This kitten kept Yousef pretty happy for most of the day after the airstrikes happened, Okal said.

The day was a particularly hard one for Yousef, whom the family has had to wean off of milk as supplies have run out. The family has had to scrounge for drinking water and food has been low. When Okal tried to walk to a neighboring community in search of milk, he witnessed an explosion and had to return to Rafah empty-handed.

Its almost like angels are looking after us, Okal said. We hope they continue to do so.

Okal noted in his audio message that Thursday is day 19 of the war.

Were still in Rafah... and we are sheltering in place still since we moved down to Rafah from northern Gaza, Okal said. Were staying close by the borders, waiting for them to open. No updates yet.

Medway husband and wife Abood Okal and Wafaa Abuzayda with 1-year-old son Yousef Okal. (Photo courtesy Sammy Nabulsi)

With hundreds of American citizens as well as other foreign nationals trapped in Gaza  including Okal and his family  the U.S. State Department still does not have a way to get them out.

Rafah borders Egypt, and humanitarian aid has been coming in at a trickle through that border, but no American citizens or other foreign nationals have been allowed out. Israel has closed its borders with Gaza.

Asked during a press conference Monday if it was his expectation that Americans would be allowed to leave Gaza soon, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller replied that while there wasnt necessarily an expectation, there was a very sincere hope that they would be able to leave in the coming days.

A major obstacle for the family has been lack of supplies in Gaza. While limited supplies were recently allowed into the country through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, the supplies are few for the 2.3 million people in Gaza who have been cut off from food, water and fuel since the start of the conflict on Oct. 7.

Abood Okal of Medway witnessed an airstrike on his way to buy milk for his sick 1 year old child. (Abood Okal photo)

U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern, whose Massachusetts district covers Medway, has been increasingly alarmed at the U.S. State Departments lack of progress getting American citizens out of Gaza.

Im deeply concerned and also frustrated, McGovern, D-2nd District, told MassLive on Wednesday. There hasnt been a day gone by we havent been on the phone with the State Department trying to advocate for them and push the administration to do everything humanly possible to get them out.

Okal said the house he is staying in has 10 Americans, including him, his wife and his son, as well as his sister and her three children, his brother, and his parents.

He added that the family could hear the missiles flying over the house and hit near them.

Okal estimated that the nearest strike was about 800 or 900 feet away from the house they are staying in.

1-year-old Yousef Okal plays with a kitten that visited them in Gaza shortly after airstrikes hit close to his family's shelter. (Abood Okal photo)Abood Okal

Its unannounced, unexpected so everyone was just in complete panic, Okal said. Children were crying, screaming, including Yousef. We had to spend a couple of hours after that trying to distract them and spend time with them.

Thats when the kitten showed up.

So that was pretty helpful to keep him kind of in a better mood, and again, were trying to sheild him from all the trauma that comes with all the airstrikes, Okal said.

Okal said that he has received a notification Thursday from the U.S. State Department, but that there was no new information about departing Gaza.

The message read: Dear U.S. citizen, we want you to know that the U.S. government is making every effort to press for a solution that will allow you to depart Gaza via the Rafah border crossing to Egypt and onward from there. At the same time, we are working to bring additional humanitarian aid to Gaza. As we have information to share, we will do so. Please know that we are working on your behalf. The U. S. Department of State.

Okal said he appreciated the message and that the State Department is working on his familys behalf. At the same time, he is worried as a ground invasion from Israel is expected.

It has been 19 days since the start of the war and every day were concerned that its going to become too late, he said.
Pennsylvania State Police are urging parents to check their children's candy as the local barracks reports an increase in the number of narcotics seizures related to THC and psilocybin, or mushrooms.

Police on Wednesday said Troop H in Harrisburg has seen an increase in the number of seizures in "candy" with THC or psilocybin. They are found in packaging that mimics legal and well-known candy.

Such drug-infused candy could be confused during trick-or-treat on Thursday and Halloween across the area, though police said they have no information that indicates anyone is intentionally giving the products to children or teenagers.

However, police said juveniles may mistake the products for candy or mistakenly believe eating such products are safer than smoking. Police said ingestion could lead to dangerous outcomes, such as intoxication and overdose for adolescents and users unaware of the potency and delayed effects of edibles.

Marijuana edibles are legal in Pennsylvania by prescription only, but psilocybin is illegal in the state.

Because of the potential for danger, police are urging parents and guardians to thoroughly check the contents of products children eat and to make sure there is no reference to marijuana or psilocybin ingredients. Such terms could include THC, medicated, pictures of marijuana leaves and pictures of mushrooms.
Maine law enforcement officials continue their search for a suspected mass shooter who killed 18 people and injured 13 others at a bar and bowling alley in Lewiston Wednesday night.

Our reality for today is that this suspect is still at large, Public Safety Commissioner Michael Saushuck said during a press conference with Maine State Police, the FBI and Gov. Janet Mills on Thursday. And we want to provide community support for the victims, for the families, communities across the state. But we also have an incredibly strong, laser-like focus on bringing this suspect into custody and, ultimately, to justice.

Robert Card, 40, is wanted for murder, Saushuck told reporters.

The shootings at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away, in Lewiston on Wednesday night killed at least 18 people. Several of the victims have been identified, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said during the press conference. So far, 10 people have so far not been.

Card was identified after the attack that sent panicked bowlers scrambling behind pins when shots rang out around 7 p.m. Wednesday. Card was described as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine, and said to have been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023.

We hope to locate and hold the person accountable, Lewiston Police Chief David St. Pierre said Thursday, after expressing his thanks to the efforts of all law enforcement agencies involved in searching for Card.

FBI Boston Special Agent Jodi Cohen was also at the press conference to emphasize the FBIs role in finding Card, asking the public to help investigators if anyone sees Card.

My pledge is the FBI will carry out this investigative case with rigor, Cohen said. We will work day and night alongside our law enforcement partners to get the answers to the questions this community deserves. We thank the public for your continued cooperation and patience as we continue to work this very active investigation. Thank you.

Read more: Shelter in place in Maine expands as police look for gunman in Lewiston shootings

If you come into contact with this individual, or someone who looks like this individual, call 911, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Speaking with reporters, Saushuck said there were no available details on a motive behind the shooting. One reporter asked him that with an arrest warrant issued Thursday, does this suggest that Card is still in Maine.

Well, were actively searching for him, Saushuck replied. If I knew the answers to those questions, this would be a different press conference, I would assume. So, we dont know his location and Ill leave it at that. We are working with the attorney generals office. So with that in mind, were done taking questions for now.

There are still many things we do not know about this attack, but the weight of my administration is behind law enforcement to catch this man, Gov. Janet Mills said near the start of the press conference.

Grief counselors and other mental health services will be available for Maine residents, including family members of those who lost loved ones in Lewiston, Mills said. She added that we need to help our communities heal, and urged people call or text 988 for help.

All Maine people are sharing in the sorrows of those who lost loved ones last night, Mills said.
The Duxbury mother charged with strangling her three young children in January pleaded not guilty at her arraignment on Thursday as she remains hospitalized at Tewksbury Hospital.

Lindsay Clancy, 33, faces three counts each of murder and strangulation after being indicted by a Plymouth County grand jury in September. She is charged in connection with the deaths of her children, 5-year-old Cora Clancy and 3-year-old Dawson Clancy on Jan. 24. Prosecutors said Lindsay Clancy also injured her infant son Callan Clancy, who died days later in a hospital.

The judge ordered Clancy to remain held at the hospital as he found her at a serious risk of imminent self-harm. Plymouth County prosecutors and her defense attorney did not object to the judges order.

Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague largely recounted the events of Jan. 24 similarly to Clancys initial court appearance in February but added few details such as the specific medications that Clancy took that evening and how a fitness watch tracked her movements from the basement floor to the second floor during the time prosecutors say her children were strangled.

At Clancys initial district court arraignment in February, Sprague described how she is accused of strangling her children with exercise bands before jumping out of the houses second-story window in an attempted suicide.

Sprague said on Thursday that Clancy was found with cuts to her wrist and neck, but that they were only superficial and that none required stitches and the wounds were not bleeding by the time her husband had found her.

Defense attorney Kevin Reddington described Clancy as a marvelous mother at Thursdays arraignment and said that he walked through the house where there were artworks and photographs in every room that showed Clancy and her husbands devotion to their children.

Shes a woman who was obviously struggling from postpartum depression, Reddington said. This woman was a troubled soul.

Reddington said that he believes Clancy has a good defense and a very strong case should it go to trial.

Clancy was on several medications, which she tracked carefully in notebooks and cell phone notes, and Reddington said she was having problems with the medications. Her husband told doctors she was acting like a zombie in the weeks leading up to their childrens deaths, according to Reddington.

The arraignment took place over Zoom and a court clinician interviewed Clancy prior to the hearing and the clinician said that Clancy had little to no emotional expression and that Clancy expressed on going daily thoughts of suicide.

The clinical recommended Clancys further hospitalization and noted that Tewksbury Hospital would accept the Duxbury mother for a period not to exceed six months.

Clancys case is continued in Plymouth Superior Court until December 15.

Duxbury police said they received a call from Clancys husband Patrick on Jan. 24, who, according to prosecutors, had returned home from ThreeV, a restaurant in Plymouth, to find three unconscious children with obvious signs of trauma and attempted suicide by his wife.

Clancy was taken to a local hospital. She was later moved to Tewksbury State Hospital and ordered to stay for six months so doctors could provide extensive mental health care.

Duxbury Police work at the scene where two children were found dead and an infant injured, Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023, in Duxbury, Mass. (David L Ryan/The Boston Globe via AP) APAP

During Clancys initial court appearance in February, Sprague described the Duxbury mother as a person in control and aware of her emotions, often consulting her husband when she had suicidal thoughts, in the days leading up to the death of her three children.

The prosecutor said Clancy asked her husband on the day of the murders to run a handful of errands, including picking up products at a CVS and food from a restaurant. It was at that time, prosecutors argued, that Clancy deliberately strangled her three children, killing two of them and leaving the youngest injured.

She later jumped out of a window after injuring herself, prosecutors said.

Investigators also found four medication bottles prescribed to Clancy when they searched the home the day after the childrens deaths, according to court documents.

Investigators collected several electronic devices from the residence where the children were strangled at 47 Summer Street, such as Clancys pink iPhone, a laptop and a tablet. They wrote in affidavits that they sought to search these devices because they could uncover evidence that she planned her attempted suicide or the killings of her children.

Investigators are also aware that Ms. Clancy used her cellular telephone and her journal to document her mental state and her feelings about her children, in addition to keeping track of her medications and researching ways to kill, according to the affidavits.

This weeks unsealed court documents contain 11 search warrants sought by Massachusetts State Police in the months after the childrens deaths.

The records, however, do not reveal how investigators discovered that Clancy had used her cell phone to research ways to kill. An impoundment order on the records expired on Monday.

An online donation drive to support Patrick Clancy surpassed $1 million. In a message posted there, Patrick Clancy asked people to find it deep within yourselves to forgive Lindsay, as I have.

The real Lindsay was generously loving and caring towards everyone - me, our kids, family, friends, and her patients, he wrote. The very fibers of her soul are loving. All I wish for her now is that she can somehow find peace.
Notes kept in journals and on the cell phone of Lindsay Clancy, the Duxbury mother charged in the killings of her three young children, provided detailed descriptions of her life and her children in the months and days leading up to their deaths.

The notes written by Clancy were clear and precise and articulate, according to a Plymouth County prosecutor. She not only took meticulous notes of the medications she was taking for postpartum depression and anxiety, but they also provided insights into her state of mind.

In these notes in journals, she always appears to know who she is, where she is, whats going on and whats happening, Plymouth County Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Sprague said on Thursday. Theres no disordered thought or speech. No mention of hallucinations or any delusions.

Defense attorney Kevin Reddington described Clancy as a marvelous mother at Thursdays arraignment and said that he walked through the house where there were artworks and photographs in every room that showed Clancy and her husbands devotion to their children.

Shes a woman who was obviously struggling from postpartum depression, Reddington said. This woman was a troubled soul.

On the day before the childrens killings, Sprague said, Clancy wrote that she had a touch of postpartum anxiety around returning to work as a nurse.

In an entry dated Oct. 25, 2022, Clancy wrote: I think I sort of resent our children because they prevent me from treating Callan like my first baby, according to Sprague.

Clancy also wrote: I want to feel love and connection with all of my kids.

Clancy, 33, pleaded not guilty on Thursday to three counts each of murder and strangulation after being indicted by a Plymouth County grand jury in September.

Read more: Lindsay Clancy pleads not guilty to 3 counts of murder in deaths of Duxbury children

The Duxbury mother is charged in connection with the deaths of her children, 5-year-old Cora Clancy and 3-year-old Dawson Clancy on Jan. 24. Prosecutors said Lindsay Clancy also injured her infant son Callan Clancy, who died days later in a hospital.

Clancys arraignment took place at Tewksbury Hospital where she remains hospitalized. A judge ordered her to remain held at the hospital after finding her at a serious risk of imminent self-harm.

Through court documents and the arraignment this week, it was revealed that Clancy used her cell phone to look up Can you treat a sociopath? and ways to kill in the days leading up to the killings.

At Clancys initial district court arraignment in February, Sprague described how she is accused of strangling her children with exercise bands before jumping out of the houses second-story window in an attempted suicide  on Thursday, Sprague recounted many of the same details.

Reddington said that he believes Clancy has a good defense and a very strong case should it go to trial.

Clancy was on several medications, which she tracked carefully in notebooks and cell phone notes, and Reddington said she was having problems with the medications. Her husband told doctors she was acting like a zombie in the weeks leading up to their childrens deaths, according to Reddington.

What happened on Jan. 24?

Duxbury police said they received a call from Clancys husband Patrick on Jan. 24, who, according to prosecutors, had returned home from ThreeV, a restaurant in Plymouth, to find three unconscious children with obvious signs of trauma and attempted suicide by his wife.

Clancy was taken to a local hospital. She was later moved to Tewksbury State Hospital and ordered to stay for six months so doctors could provide extensive mental health care.

During Clancys initial court appearance in February, Sprague described the Duxbury mother as a person in control and aware of her emotions, often consulting her husband when she had suicidal thoughts, in the days leading up to the death of her three children.

The prosecutor said Clancy asked her husband on the day of the murders to run a handful of errands, including picking up products at a CVS and food from a restaurant. It was at that time, prosecutors argued, that Clancy deliberately strangled her three children, killing two of them and leaving the youngest injured.

She later jumped out of a window after injuring herself, prosecutors said.

Investigators also found four medication bottles prescribed to Clancy when they searched the home the day after the childrens deaths, according to court documents.

Investigators collected several electronic devices from the residence where the children were strangled at 47 Summer St., such as Clancys pink iPhone, a laptop and a tablet. They wrote in affidavits that they sought to search these devices because they could uncover evidence that she planned her attempted suicide or the killings of her children.

Investigators are also aware that Ms. Clancy used her cellular telephone and her journal to document her mental state and her feelings about her children, in addition to keeping track of her medications and researching ways to kill, according to the affidavits.

This weeks unsealed court documents contain 11 search warrants sought by Massachusetts State Police in the months after the childrens deaths.

The records, however, do not reveal how investigators discovered that Clancy had used her cell phone to research ways to kill. An impoundment order on the records expired on Monday.

An online donation drive to support Patrick Clancy surpassed $1 million. In a message posted there, Patrick Clancy asked people to find it deep within yourselves to forgive Lindsay, as I have.

The real Lindsay was generously loving and caring towards everyone - me, our kids, family, friends, and her patients, he wrote. The very fibers of her soul are loving. All I wish for her now is that she can somehow find peace.
As the conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated, raising the number of civilian casualties counted in the thousands, Worcester Congressman Jim McGovern has been increasingly alarmed at the U.S. State Departments lack of progress getting American citizens out of Gaza.

Im deeply concerned and also frustrated, McGovern, D-2nd District, said Wednesday. There hasnt been a day gone by we havent been on the phone with the State Department trying to advocate for them and push the administration to do everything humanly possible to get them out.

Among McGoverns constituents are a Medway family  Abood Okal, Wafaa Abuzayda, and their 1-year-old son Yousef Okal  who were visiting relatives in Gaza when Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7. The family has endured an increasingly dangerous and dire situation sheltering in the southern community of Rafah as airstrikes have escalated and supplies including food and water have diminished.

Okal, who has communicated with MassLive primarily through the texting app WhatsApp, has described being forced to wean his son off of milk and his efforts to soothe his child amid explosions at night.

Today is day 18 of the war and were still stranded in Gaza, Okal said in a three-minute voice recording published by MassLive speaking of his familys experiences. Weve been trying to stay strong but it hasnt been easy.

Medway husband and wife Abood Okal and Wafaa Abuzayda with 1-year-old son Yousef Okal. (Photo courtesy Sammy Nabulsi)

Okal has described being told by the State Department that the border crossing between Gaza and Egypt would be open on three occasions and each time not being allowed through.

For McGovern, who has been in contact with Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Joshua Harris and U.S. Agency for International Development administrator Samantha Power, he doesnt understand why the family hasnt been able to leave yet.

For the many days we have been advocating for this family weve heard all kinds of reasons why it is challenging, McGovern said.

At first, McGovern said the State Department had indicated that Egypt didnt want to open the passage because they were afraid of a large influx of people. Once that was resolved, the State Department said Israel had to agree not to perform military action in the area. After that, he was told there was no assurance that Hamas wouldnt interfere.

I dont even know what it is today, McGovern said. I dont know what the reason is why this hasnt happened.

In a press conference on Monday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said that negotiations have been ongoing about both getting aid into Gaza from Egypt through the Rafah crossing between the two countries, as well as getting U.S. citizens and other foreign nationals out.

We were in conversation with the Government of Egypt, as we have been for some time, about being able to process those American citizens if they were able to get through the Gaza side and to the Egyptian side of the crossing. None of them were able to because the reports we were given on the ground is that Hamas was there blocking anyone from coming through the gate from the Gaza side out to the Egyptian side, Miller said.

In a statement to MassLive, a State Department spokesperson provided a statement that the department has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas.

We have made thousands of phone calls and sent thousands of emails to U.S. citizens in Gaza, their immediate family members, and their loved ones who are inquiring with us on their behalf. We continue to work urgently in partnership with Egypt and Israel to facilitate the ability of U.S. citizens and their immediate family members to exit Gaza safely and travel via Egypt to their final destinations. We are providing the best information we have about shifting conditions to allow U.S. citizens to make their own decisions regarding their safety and security in an incredibly difficult and fluid situation, the statement read.

The spokesperson said they could not confirm exactly how many Americans are trapped in Gaza. McGovern said the number was in the hundreds.

McGovern said he was particularly worried that if Americans were not allowed to leave soon, it would become more difficult to get them out if Israel executes a ground invasion of Gaza, something they have threatened to do.

While State Department officials had previously indicated that citizens would have to find their own way from the border to Cairo  a five-hour drive away  McGovern said the most recent information hes heard is that there would be transportation from the border to Cairo available to American citizens.

McGovern is among the small group in Congress that has pushed for a ceasefire in the region. Last week, McGovern joined fellow Congresspeople Pramila Jayapal of Washington, Greg Casar of Texas, Barbara Lee of California, Joaquin Castro of Texas, Veronica Escobar of Texas and Jesus G. Chuy Garcia of Illinois in calling for an immediate ceasefire, or at minimum a temporary cessation of all hostilities in Israel and Gaza to save civilian lives.

I get that Israel has a right to defend itself, but were now at a point where the humanitarian crisis demands a ceasefire, McGovern said Wednesday. The bombing needs to stop and again we need t ofocus on getting all the Americans out of Gaza safely.

More than a dozen Congresspeople have joined the call for a ceasefire  including Massachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley.

Massachusetts two U.S. Senators  Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey  have not signed on to the effort to call for a ceasefire.

Markey had previously called for de-escalation at a pro-Israel rally earlier this month, and was booed by those in attendance following that remark.

In a statement sent to MassLive, Warren addressed the situation at the Rafah border crossing.

Humanitarian aid is beginning to trickle into Gaza, and the situation on the ground remains dire. I continue to actively work with the State Department to help American citizens come home as soon as possible, including the Medway family, Warren wrote in the statement.

McGovern said his office is not going to rest until the Medway family is safely back in the United States.

My heart aches for them, McGovern said. They have a little baby, and we heard about the baby having a fever at one point.... We are pressuring our government as strongly as we can to get them out now, whatever it takes.
A Massachusetts State Police trooper is on the ground with his K-9 unit in Lewiston, Maine on Thursday morning after a mass shooter killed at least 16 people, plunging the states second largest city into chaos.

The shootings began at a restaurant and a bowling alley around 7 p.m. on Oct. 25, at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles away from the restaurant, The Associated Press reported.

The alert for Lewiston was made shortly after 8 p.m. as the sheriffs office reported law enforcement agencies were investigating two active shooter events. Officials issued an update around 10 p.m. on their search, and said to avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear, and seek alternative routes.

If already operating in the affected region, adhere to all instructions issued by local officials, including the shelter-in-place order, the statement said.

The suspect, identified as Robert Card, 40, remained at large as authorities ordered residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets. He has not yet been located as of Thursday morning.

Two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press dozens of people also had been wounded. The officials were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Massachusetts State Police troopers were sent to the New Hampshire border in Massachusetts on Wednesday night to patrol the state line as a proactive measure; the department stated there was no information at the time to suggest Card was heading south.

The troopers were called off the border after Cards car, a white Subaru, was located in Maine, the department said.

Read more: Shelter in place in Maine expands as police look for gunman in Lewiston shootings

On Thursday, a Massachusetts State Trooper assigned to the Bomb Squad, and his K-9 partner were at the Lewiston area with his training as ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) Task Force Officer. The department is prepared to provide additional mutual aid to Maine State Police if requested.

As of Thursday morning, Massachusetts State Police said Card has no known ties to Massachusetts. The department is continuing to gather all available intelligence on Card and keep in contact with Maine State Police.

The department will notify local law enforcement and the public of any updates or information that affects the state.

Massachusetts State Police also addressed an unsubstantiated BOLO alert broadcast to Massachusetts police on Thursday for a vehicle possibly connected to the shooting.

The alert originated in New Hampshire, police said, from a civilian driver who said she saw a man who she said looked like Card in a blue Chevrolet suburban with Maine plates. The sighting and any connection of that vehicle to Card is unsubstantiated, the department said.

The shelter in place has expanded to Bowdoin as of Thursday morning, including closing schools. The town is east of Lewiston and is where the suspected gunman is from.

Read more: At least 16 dead in Maine as police try to track down mass shooter

Please stay inside your homes while more than 100 investigators, both local and federal work to locate Robert Card who is a person of interest in the Lewiston shootings, Maine State Police wrote on Facebook.

Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.
The man who Boston police believe vandalized a statue of Jesus Christ on a crucifix at the Cathedral of Holy Cross in Boston was ordered held on $5,000 bail in Boston Municipal Court on Wednesday, Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Haydens office announced.

Michael Patzelt, 37, of Attleboro, was charged with assault and malicious destruction of property, Haydens office said in a statement. He was ordered by Judge Paul Treseler to stay away from the church and from all witnesses in the case.

Officers were notified Tuesday, Oct. 24, of a suspicious person who knocked off a womans headwear, then started climbing and hanging from the crucifix outside the church located at 1400 Washington St. in the South End, around 6:15 p.m., police said. This resulted in several parts of the statue breaking off.

Patzelt then broke both the statues arms before officers arrived, according to police. The incident was caught on video sent to Boston25. The damage to the statue is estimated to be worth roughly $20,000, police told MassLive Wednesday.

Secretary for Communications & Public Affairs for the Archdiocese of Boston Terry Donilon confirmed to MassLive Wednesday that the cathedral experienced vandalism at the exterior crucifix.

I have no information regarding why someone would take such an action, Donilon added. The Archdiocese will work with the Cathedral to assess the damage.

Read more: Revere police officer off the streets amid investigation into forceful arrest

Hayden said in the statement that the level of venom and destructiveness displayed by this individual is difficult to comprehend.

We live in a society where citizens are free to practice any religion they choose, and equally free to practice no religion at all, Hayden added. But they are not free to desecrate symbols held precious by the many faiths within our society.

Patzelt is scheduled to appear in court again on Nov. 30.
EDEN, Vermont  The Chief Medical Examiner has identified two men found dead in the woods in northern Vermont on Wednesday as the missing men from Chicopee and Pittsfield.

Eric White, of Chicopee, and Jahim Solomon, of Pittsfield, both 21, died from gunshots and their deaths are being investigated as homicides, Vermont State Police officials said.

Both men were shot in the head. Solomon was hit multiple times, police said.

The two men, who were traveling to Vermont together, had last contacted family on Oct. 15. They were known to be in the northern Vermont communities of Stowe, Morrisville and Burlington but police said they were not sure why they had decided to visit the state.

The discoveries of the bodies came after a Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife warden spotted suspicious items about a dozen feet off Albany-Eden Road Tuesday afternoon. The scene was secured overnight and the Vermont State Police Field Force Division returned Wednesday morning, Vermont State Police Major Dan Trudeau said.

Investigators examined the location and discovered the remains of one individual. In continuing searches Wednesday afternoon, (state police) detectives located a second body about a mile north of where the first body was found, police said.

Police called the investigation complex and said they continue to people who they want to interview in the crime.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Derby Barracks at (802) 334-8881. Anonymous tips may be submitted online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.

Chicopee Police were also conducting a missing persons investigation after their disappearance was reported. That case has been closed since the Vermont State Police are handling the homicide probe, said Travis Odiorne, police spokesman.
Flags across the United States will be flown at half-staff for the next five days after a mass shooting on Wednesday in Lewiston, Maine, left 18 dead with 13 injured, President Joe Biden said in a statement Thursday.

The president ordered flags at the White House, all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels throughout the country and its territories until sunset on Oct. 30.

I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations, the president said.

Gov. Maura Healey also made a similar order for Massachusetts. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, made the order and said she was sending her condolences to everyone hurting in Maine.

New England is close-knit, and what happened last night in Lewiston is heartbreaking, Healeys post read.

New England is close knit, and what happened last night in Lewiston is heartbreaking.



Im ordering that US and Massachusetts flags be flown at half-staff, and sending my condolences to everyone hurting in Maine.  Maura Healey (@MassGovernor) October 26, 2023

The shootings occurred at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-in-Time Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away, in Lewiston on Wednesday night. Suspect Robert Card, 40, remains at large as authorities ordered residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets.

Card has been charged with eight counts of murder, but this could increase after the 10 remaining victims are identified, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said. Cards vehicle was found left at the Pejepscot Boat Ramp in Lisbon, he added.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills said she had spoken with Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and members of his cabinet. She said he assured her that he would provide all the support she needed to not only hunt down Card but also help those impacted by the mass shooting.

Read more: A list of mass killings in the United States since January 2023

Look, Lewiston is a special place, Mills said. Lewiston is where I worked for years, where I met my husband and raised our girls. Im so deeply saddened. This city did not deserve this assault on its peace of mind. No city does, not state, no people.
CHICOPEE  By next summer, customers of a local Chicopee supermarket can expect to purchase rooftop-grown fruit and vegetables from the establishment year-round.

Fruit Fair Supermarket on Front Street is looking to add three rooftop greenhouses to the business to grow and sell their own strawberries, tomatoes, pickles, cucumbers and lettuce, and other produce.

Sam Newell, co-owner of the supermarket, said on the East Coast, produce is not usually grown in the winter, a problem shes looking to fix through the greenhouses.

Instead of cold storage, well just freshly pluck and then sell it, Newell said.

Each greenhouse will be 1,200 square feet, with a heating system and a miniature solar farm, as well as shades to protect the produce throughout each season, Newell said. Staff will use a dumbwaiter and stairs to bring the produce down to customers, she said.

Newell said greenhouses have been an integral part of pushing back against the areas so-called food desert. There is a lack of access to fresh produce in the area, she said.

We dont want to go back to that, (since this is) a food-insecure zone, Newell said.

Chicopee has more than 6,000 residents, including children, who live in food insecure homes and housing situations. Thats about 11% of residents, according to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

With two-thirds of Fruit Fairs customers using state food benefits, theyre able to stretch their dollars for healthy produce, Newell said.

To her knowledge, Fruit Fair is the only source of fresh fruit in the area, as well as being a buyer and seller of local products.

Newell said the greenhouse project is expected to be completed by June 2024.

At $750,000, the project will require the purchase of greenhouse building materials, the solar array, a heating system, an upgrade of the markets electric system and more.

Newell said the cost will be covered by a $500,000 Food Security Infrastructure Grant, awarded from the states Massachusetts Farm Resiliency Fund, and a loan the owners will take out.

Jablonski Devriese Architects is working with the owners to design and construct the greenhouses, Newell said.

In addition to selling fresh fruit and vegetables, Newell said he hopes this addition to the supermarket will attract more customers.
Massachusetts State Police said the suspect in Wednesday nights mass shooting in Maine is not believed to be in Massachusetts as of Thursday at 2:30 p.m., nor does he have any connection to the state.

Robert Card, 40, has not yet been located by law enforcement after Maine State Police said 18 people were killed and 13 were injured when he opened fire around 7 p.m. in Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles away from the bar.

The killings prompted shelter-in-place orders in the city that have extended to surrounding towns as of Thursday morning.

Cards car, a 2013 white Subaru Outback, was found in Maine following the shootings, Maine State Police said.

Around 8 a.m. Thursday morning, a BOLO (be on the lookout) alert for a car being driven by Card was issued to Massachusetts and New Hampshire State Police. After an investigation, police found the information was not credible.

The BOLO said Card was driving a blue Chevrolet suburban with Maine license plates out of Oxford, a town in Maine near Lewiston, and was last seen on Interstate 93 south by the Massachusetts and New Hampshire border.

Massachusetts State Police said this BOLO alert information was not credible, and had stated at the time that it was an claim made by a woman in New Hampshire who thought she saw a man who looked like Card in the Chevrolet. But it was unsubstantiated.

In a statement Thursday afternoon, State Police reiterated Card is not believed to be in Massachusetts or have any connection to the Bay State.

We have confirmed that the information on which the earlier BOLO alert was based was inaccurate, spokesperson Dave Procopio said.

There is no information to suggest that fugitive Robert Card is in or has any nexus to Massachusetts, or that he has any connection to the vehicle that was the subject of the alert, Procopio said. Other rumors of Cards license plates being pinged to I-93 on Massachusetts, stemming from the BOLO, are also false, he said.

Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine, and was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023, according to a U.S. intelligence document.

If you come into contact with this individual, or someone who looks like this individual, call 911, Ross said.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Several of the victims have been identified, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said during the press conference Thursday. So far, 10 people were not identified, he said.

We hope to locate and hold the person accountable, Lewiston Police Chief David St. Pierre said, after expressing his thanks to the efforts of all law enforcement agencies involved in searching for Card.

FBI Boston Special Agent Jodi Cohen was also at the press conference to emphasize the FBIs role in finding Card, asking the public to help investigators if anyone sees Card.

My pledge is the FBI will carry out this investigative case with rigor, Cohen said. We will work day and night alongside our law enforcement partners to get the answers to the questions this community deserves. We thank the public for your continued cooperation and patience as we continue to work this very active investigation. Thank you.
Have you ever driven past the same building day after day and wondered what it looks like inside?

Have you ever only seen a space from the street and wondered what lies within?

Maybe the location is closed to the public, or maybe youve just never had a reason to go in.

Now you dont have to.

The Sentinels Inside Look series aims to take readers into the curious places Cumberland County has to offer from the comfort of their living rooms.

Join us every other week for a video and photo gallery of new, or sometimes very old, local places that are just waiting to be explored.

Camp Michaux

Camp Michauxs ruins are a little off the grid, located off a long mountain road beyond the reaches of cellphone reception, precisely where one might imagine a top-secret prisoner of war interrogation camp might be found.

The Cooke Township site in the Michaux State forest sits about two miles northwest of Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

Its history began in the 1780s with the establishment of Bunker Hill Farm, according to the Camp Michaux Self-Guided Walking Tour booklet by Camp Michaux Recognition and Development Project Director David L. Smith.

Bunker Hill Farm consisted of about 250 acres owned by the nearby iron industry at Pine Grove Furnace and Laurel Forge and served as one of several local farms that supplied food for men who worked for the company, their families and animals used for mining, the booklet said.

The iron industry failed in the late 1800s, and the state acquired the land in 1912, leasing it out through 1919 when the last lease-holder gave up the lease.

After 13 years of idleness, the space served as a Civilian Conservation Corps camp from 1933 to 1942, the Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau said.

A part of Franklin Delano Roosevelts New Deal during the Great Depression, the corps was designed to provide training and create jobs for men ages 18 to 25, according to the booklet.

The Bunker Hill Farm site was selected due to its need for restoration after years of involvement in the iron industry.

Men from the Carlisle Barracks and Fort Monroe in Virginia began to arrive and construct buildings on the land in 1933, according to the booklet.

In addition to buildings at the camp, the men built roads and infrastructure in Pine Grove Furnace State Park.

The CCC camp closed in 1941 with men needed for national defense during World War II, according to the booklet. By the time it closed, more than 40 buildings existed on the site.

As the war progressed, a new need surfaced: space to house prisoners of war.

According to the booklet, interrogation camps were created at Fort Hunt in Virginia and Byron Hot Springs in California, in addition to more than 660 internment camps.

With Fort Hunt unable to meet the full extent of the wars interrogation demands, a third site was selected: the former CCC camp.

For 30 months from 1943 to 1945, the camp operated as one of three secret POW interrogation camps in the nation, according to a site marker.

The space was divided into two prison compounds, one for officers and a second for enlisted men, the booklet said. During that time, it housed more than 7,313 German prisoners and 161 Japanese prisoners, according to the bureau.

Following the war, the space was converted into church Camp Michaux, shared by the United Presbyterian Church and the United Church of Christ from 1946 to 1972, according to the bureau.

Summer church camps and other activities were held at the camp throughout that time.

The booklet said Michaux Lodge, the former CCC Forestry Office and POW interrogation building, burned down in 1970. Neither the churches nor the state, which still owned the property, replaced the building, and the camp closed two years later.

Unable to find other uses for the site, the state held an auction for the deteriorating buildings in 1975 with buyers and the state removing items from the property.

Today, ruins from many of the buildings remain.

A self-guided walking tour leads visitors to 30 marked ruins in the area, from remnants of the Bunker Hill barn to crumbling barrack foundations and guard tower bases to the church camps swimming pool.

Photos: An inside look at Camp Michaux in Cooke Township
SPRINGFIELD  A decade ago when the South End took a direct hit from the F-3 tornado, Leo Florian looked around at the neighborhood where he has lived most of his life and wondered how the already struggling area would recover.

Wednesday, neighbors saw another example of the comeback of the South End with the groundbreaking of a $23 million, 40-unit Gemini Townhomes condominium complex that will provide affordable housing for first-time homebuyers.

Ten years ago, we were shaking our heads. We didnt know what was going to happen, said Florian, the president of the South End Citizens Council. But I can say this neighborhood is on the move.

The about 2.2-acre site, which is the size of a city block located on lower Central Street, has a long history. It was once home to an about 100,000-square-foot Gemini Corp. textile mill that employed thousands of people but was abandoned in 1989 and destroyed by fire in 2003. After that, the city acquired it through tax title, tore it down and cleaned the property of hazardous materials.

In 2021, the city requested proposals for reuse and Home City Development pitched a plan for affordable townhomes. It has spent the past two years lining up funding and designing the project.

There are 12 different sources of funding for the project, including state and federal grants, private loans and local money, said Mark Teden, vice president of multifamily housing at MassHousing.

Because of those funding sources, it means the homes will be available to moderate-income families who earn 100% of the citys average median income and eight will be set aside for those who earn 80% of the average median income, said Jasper McCoy, project manager.

The prices of the homes will not be set until construction is well underway and Home City Development begins to market them, but McCoy said they will likely hover around $200,000 with the eight set aside for lower-income families will be definitely under $200,000.

While the average median income changes and depends on family size, McCoy put it into perspective saying hard-working people such as the barista who works at the nearby Starbucks, the card dealer at MGM Springfield and the pharmacy tech at the CVS will be able to afford a mortgage to buy one of the homes.

Owning your own home is the path to economic prosperity, equity and moving forward, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno said. This is affordable home ownership, what I like to call workforce home ownership.

Sarno thanked the many people on the city staff who assisted in making the project take place and helping to find funding to close the gap so it could be completed.

The property was actually sold to Home City Development for $50,000 but Springfield pledged $1.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds and Home funds to expand affordable housing options in the city. The independent Community Preservation Act Committee also pledged $96,000 to help, Sarno said.

It will also put this property back on the tax rolls, he said. The spinoff effects are tremendous. You have 40 more residents living downtown and that means they are going to buy things.

A variety of city and state officials, including state Sen. Adam Gomez, state Reps. Bud L. Williams, Orlando Ramos and Carlos Gonzalez and City Council President Jesse Lederman, joined the groundbreaking to celebrate the addition of much-needed affordable housing.

This project checks so many of the boxes, said Councilor Melvin Edwards, who represents the South End.

It is a minority contractor, it will help area businesses by bringing more people to the neighborhood and it will help families, some of whom have never been able to own real estate, build generational wealth, officials said.

The project is being constructed by local firm Henry General Contractors. Owner Brian Henry said he hopes to have work completed in 14 months.
SPRINGFIELD  Small businesses that get certified by the city as minority- or women-owned can now also access opportunities with the state.

And vice versa, according to a pair of joint announcements this week.

Under a new agreement, both the state and the city of Springfield agree to accept each others certifications of small businesses as minority- or women-owned.

This gives them not only a leg-up on contracting opportunities, but certification also enables businesses to receive updates on upcoming projects of interest, free training and invitations to networking events.

Under a new agreement, both the state and the city also agree to accept each others certifications of veteran-owned businesses, too.

I want to thank my Chief Development Officer Tim Sheehan and especially Patrice Chae Swan, director of the Department of Technical Assistance and Compliance, for their efforts working with the State Supplier Diversity Office to establish this unique and innovative partnership to provide our local small businesses with this certification initiative, said Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno in a statement.

Read more: Nonprofit NE Farm Workers sells building at Main and Hampden to pay off debt

The states Supplier Diversity Office and the city have spent the last four months modifying their certification tracking system to enable outside employees to use the system when conducting certifications, according to a statement from Gov. Maura T. Healeys office.

Employees of Springfields Department of Technical Assistance and Compliance will certify businesses in Western Massachusetts using the state Supplier Diversity Offices registration system. The city employees will follow the states certification policies and procedures and become a certifier of diverse businesses, which are classified as businesses owned by minorities, women and veterans, the state said.

The city Department of Technical Assistance and Compliance can be found at springfield-ma.gov/finance/dtac

We are very excited to announce the (Supplier Diversity Office) partnership with the city of Springfield, said Bill McAvoy, executive director for the Supplier Diversity Office. This will give businesses in Springfield and Western Massachusetts more opportunities to receive the services and benefits that the (Supplier Diversity Office) offers.

Certification is a free process.

The Supplier Diversity Office has a similar agreement with the city of Boston.

Businesses certified by the either the city of Boston or the city of Springfield can upload their one-page certificate into the states certification system to be recognized by the state.

The Supplier Diversity Office in an email said staffers are evaluating the potential of an automated process, which would eliminate the need for the Springfield-certified businesses to upload their city-issued certificate when they apply for certification.

The state said it will accept any businesses that the city of Springfield certifies  no matter if its in Springfield or not  but the intent is to focus on city businesses.

In recent months, the states Supplier Diversity Office released the Municipal Supplier Diversity Playbook and the Business Map Dashboard, an interactive map that helps find local businesses.

Earlier this year, Healey expanded opportunities for LGBTQ-owned businesses and businesses owned by people with disabilities.
Maine Gov. Janet Mills understands the people of Lewiston are enduring, immeasurable pain and encourages them to reach out to the suicide and crisis lifeline after at least 18 people were killed in two shootings Wednesday night.

I wish I could take that pain off your heart, off your shoulders. But I promise you this we will all help you carry that grief, Mills said in a press conference Thursday morning.

She asked people call or text 988 for free and confidential counseling during this difficult time.

The lifeline provides 24/7 support for anyone in the U.S.

This is a dark day for Maine, she said. I know its hard for us to think about healing when our hearts are broken. But I want every person in Maine to know and we will heal together. We are strong. We are resilient. We are a very caring people. And the days and weeks ahead, we will need to lean on those qualities more than ever before. As we move forward, struggling as we may, let us wrap our arms around one another, offer comfort and solace.

The same man is suspected of being involved in both shootings, identified by state police as Robert Card.

Card had been trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine. The document says Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide specific details about his treatment or condition.

If you come into contact with this individual, or someone who looks like this individual, call 911, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

The document also said Card had reported hearing voices and had threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine.

Seven people, one woman and six men, were killed at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley. Four miles away, seven men inside Schemengees Bar and Grille and one man outside the bar were killed by gunshot wounds, police said.

Three people that were taken to hospitals also died, police said.

Several of the victims have been identified, Ross said during the press conference. As of Thursday morning, 10 people had not been identified.

The shootings at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston on Wednesday night engulfed the states second-largest city in chaos. Card remains at large as authorities ordered residents and business owners to stay inside and off the streets.

The bar was hosting an industry night where employees from bars and restaurants got 25% off their bill.

My heart is crushed. I am at a loss for words, the Schemengees Bar and Grille Facebook post read Thursday. In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason. We loss great people in this community. How can we make any sense of this. Sending out prayers to everyone.
WESTFIELD  A vacant student dormitory at Westfield State University is no longer being considered an option for emergency migrant housing, according to a spokesman for the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities.

State officials caused a stir in August when they approached the small university a second time to probe the viability of using Lammers Hall as an emergency housing site amid the states exploding migrant crisis.

Thousands of migrants  mostly Haitian immigrants  are fleeing their violence-torn country and flooding Massachusetts as a right-to-shelter state. The influx began as a trickle last year but turned into a deluge as more and more migrants crossed the borders.

After thorough evaluation and discussion, the Healey-Driscoll administration is no longer considering repurposing Lammers Hall at Westfield State University as an emergency family shelter at this time, due to a number of factors including cost, size and location as we enter this new phase of the shelter system, a spokesperson for the state housing agency said on Thursday.

A spokesman for the university declined to comment. Officials there previously confirmed the state was looking at a list of state universities as potential emergency housing sites.

Amber Kinzie in her room at the Clarion Hotel in West Springfield her child, 3-year-old Azario Rankin, in July. (Don Treeger / The Republican, File)

Gov. Maura Healey declared a state of emergency over the matter on Aug. 8, pleading for federal assistance to mitigate the crisis. Despite a scramble to find alternative emergency shelter spots, the governor recently announced Massachusetts would be entirely out of available space by the end of the month.

The countrys only other right-to-shelter state is New York, which has been grappling with a similar crisis, with images of migrants sleeping on sidewalks outside conventional shelters running in news outlets there.

State legislators and municipal leaders decried the potential Westfield move when representatives from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency came to evaluate Lammers Hall over the summer after being rebuffed by the college earlier in the year. They rejected the similarities drawn between migrants and homeless families previously being placed at Salem State University.

Simply put, putting an emergency shelter in the heart of a campus defies all logic and reasoning. And unlike buildings considered at some other institutions like Salem State University, Lammers Hall also lacks access to critical services and is fully inadequate to serve as an emergency shelter, said state Sen. John C. Velis, D-Westfield, in a statement yesterday. Ive always felt that it was misguided to attempt to solve one problem  the federal governments inability to mitigate an immigration crisis  by exacerbating another problem, namely, requiring higher education to deviate from their core mission of educating students.

During the August tour at the campus, Velis also questioned whether placing an emergency shelter in the middle of campus would worsen already declining enrollment plaguing Westfield.

There are going to be students and parents who say: Wait, this isnt what we signed up for. And I think thats a completely fair response, Velis said. This is not the mission of higher-ed. Which is solely education.

Velis was called up this month as part of the National Guard response to the migrant crisis, which included housing prep and administration.

Mayors in cities most affected by the migrant influx across the state, primarily those with an abundance of hotels and motels, also became disgruntled over what they characterized as poor communication between Healeys administration and municipal leaders.

Were a welcoming community, and were always going to welcome refugees, but the process hasnt been great, said West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt said previously.
The law is complicated, but for it to serve a civil society, it must be inherently fair. The plight of a Springfield woman now before the Supreme Judicial Court smacks of unfairness.

It is legal in Massachusetts for people in arrears on property taxes to face foreclosure on their homes. In the course of that, they have lost more than the security of shelter and dollar value of whats owed to a municipality.

They faced surrendering any and all equity built up through home ownership.

That reality has fed a rapacious industry that angles to buy tax debt and squeeze homeowners delinquent on payments. The problem has been particularly severe in Springfield.

A study by the Pacific Legal Foundation found that in the course of eight years, the city of Springfield foreclosed on 129 houses to collect almost $3.5 million in unpaid taxes. In doing so, it caused residents to lose $15 million in equity. The study examined cases from 2014 through 2021.

In May, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a ruling, Tyler v. Hennepin County, Minnesota, that is likely to end this greedy feasting on misfortune. The high court found that this process violates the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The ruling stands in conflict with Chapter 60 of the Massachusetts General Laws.

Springfield homeowner Ashley Mills and two legal groups want the SJC to broker an end to this practice. Attorney Frank Bailey, of the Pioneer Public Interest Law Center, says the Massachusetts statute contains language akin to what the high court found unconstitutional in Minnesota. New York and Nebraska have adjusted laws in light of the decision.

Massachusetts appears poised to join that movement away from a deeply unjust practice. After the May ruling, the Massachusetts Land Court said municipalities engaged in tax foreclosure cases must provide just compensation to property owners.

Mills, who is 25, inherited her home from a grandparent and lives there with her mother, who is disabled, and her toddler son. Her attorney says that after she fell behind by $2,000 on her property taxes, the amount owed ballooned to $20,000 due to penalties and fees. Foreclosure would rob her of an estimated $200,000 in equity. This home is Mills only financial asset. Losing it, her attorney says, risks leaving her and her family without shelter.

The nations top court now says thats wrong. Its been wrong for years. A fix is long overdue.
FOR more than ten years, seasoned geo-political observers have predicted that, when it comes, the next World War will have its origins in the fractious hostilities which are endemic to the Middle East. Whether the current upsurge in violence represents the fulfilment of that ominous prophecy should set the rest of the world to worry.

Ironically, the conflict has broken out just at a time when it seemed that peaceful co-existence had seemed a possibility.

The Hamas attack on Israel was as notable for its ferocity as it was for its unexpectedness. Women and children were butchered in their homes, murdered on the streets, or ruthlessly gunned down at a music festival. Frantic Israeli villagers barricaded themselves in their homes while Palestinian gunmen roamed the streets, the villagers calling TV stations to ask where was the army and security forces on which they relied with such confidence.

For the Israeli government, the attack came as a crushing blow to a military dominance that prided itself on its proven invincibility. The question of how the country came to be caught so much off guard remains to be addressed, but when it does, the reckoning will be merciless.

Israel has long enjoyed  or so it believed  unrivalled supremacy in terms of national security and protection from attack. Every phone call made in Gaza is routed through Israeli networks, meaning that monitoring of any sort of illicit planning should be a given; its network of informers inside Gaza means, in theory, that the most minute of rebel sentiment is fed back to the authorities; constant drone surveillance should mean that anything untoward is quickly identified and clamped down on.

Just before the Hamas attack, Israel was a sundered country in governance terms. It was riven with acrimony, anti-government street protests were commonplace, army reservists had threatened to defy any order to report for duty. With the attack, all that has changed. Grief and anger have brought all factions together, and the country has gone back to survival mode. A unity government has been formed, the better to cement national solidarity and give expression to the communal unity that must come before all else.

But the unity government will only last until the fighting stops, by which time the Prime Minister, Mr Netanyahu will be brought to account for the lapses that gave way to the Hamas butchery. He will know that his days are numbered as Prime Minister, which in turn suggests the terrible prospect that he will allow the war to continue without end, since it will be his only chance to cling to power.

There have, quite rightly, been worldwide protests in support of the Palestinian people. It degrades humanity that an enclave of 2 million impoverished people, with nowhere to flee, should be subjected to the retribution of an angered Israel. But equally it should be said that Hamas apologists need to be called out in their readiness to conflate an explanation of the cause of the attack with its justification.

If the Arab Israeli conflict is to upset the world order, as it threatens to do, it might be worth reflecting on what a fragile construct the European Union has shown itself to be. Faced with the imminent crisis, Brussels responded with utter confusion. The EU Enlargement Commissioner announced that aid to the Palestinian Authority would be cut off, only to be promptly countermanded by his superior. Ms Von den Leyen rushed out a ham-fisted partisan pronouncement that led to an abrupt about turn when the extent of her overstepping the boundary was revealed.

Coming at a time when the first chinks in European solidarity over support for Ukraine are beginning to appear, the Middle East conflict does not augur well for the cohesion of Europe.
A LAHARDANE delegation met with officials from the HSE in Castlebar last Friday in a bid to fill the villages GP vacancy. The talks were attended by a doctor who has indicated his willingness to take up the position. The HSE and the GP are to meet again later this week

Gerry Loftus, leader of the Rural Ireland Organisation and part of the delegation, described the hour-long meeting as positive. However, he emphasised that resolving the issue has been complicated by the fact the list of medical card holders attached to the Lahardane surgery has been transferred to Crossmolina.

The HSE informed us at the meeting that as far as they are aware they have never been in this situation before, where there is no panel of patients attached to the surgery. Normally when a doctor leaves, there is a panel and patients left for the new doctor, but there is no panel here, and for that reason it is not as simple to resolve, he explained.

The north Mayo community has been left without a GP service since October 1 after Dr Enda Loftus, GP there since 2020, left to take up a vacant position in Crossmolina.

The Lahardane GMS (General Medical Services) number  a list of clients that includes approximately 1,100 medical card holders  was also transferred to the Crossmolina surgery.

We are progressing to the stage where the doctor and the HSE will have a discussion between themselves, but it is a slow process, Mr Loftus explained. The problem is there is no panel and this man [doctor] has no patients to take on. That will be between himself and the HSE to iron out.

It was our job to get it this far, and we have got a doctor and the HSE talking, and now they have to talk  it is as simple as that. We are moving along and hopefully we are coming to the end of the road. The communications between all sides are strong, and the meeting was positive and nobody is talking about walking away from the table. Everyone wants to resolve the problem. Everyone is hopeful it can be worked out, but it will take patience, he said.
Get ready for spine-tingling thrills and chills at the upcoming the hugely popular Horror in the Barracks event, where your screams are not just for fun, but also for a noble cause.

This spine-tingling experience is set to take place at the historic Military Barracks, Castlebar, from tomorrow, Friday, October 27th from 7pm to 10pm for children over 12 and adults, On Sunday, October 29 from 4pm to 6pm, there will have a spooky experience for children under 12 accompanied by an adult and the full show for adults and children over 12 again from 7pm to 10pm.

Horror in the Barracks is a volunteer-run event that brings thrilling scares and chills to Castlebar. This annual event aims to provide a scary experience for all ages while raising funds for various local community initiatives. It is a unique opportunity to enjoy the spooky season and make a positive impact on the community. All proceeds from this event will go towards the following worthy causes: Ballyheane AFC Pitch Development, Ballyheane Community Council, Breaffy LGFA, Castlebar Autism Friendly Town, Castlebar Community Clean Up, Castlebar Mitchels Hurling Club, Castlebar Tidy Towns, Davitt College, Mayo Autism Camp, Order of Malta, St Geralds DSL College and St Joseph's Secondary School

Don't miss your chance to be part of this spooky experience that not only promises to terrify but also supports a range of local community initiatives.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/horror-in-the-barracks-tickets-733354451907?aff=oddtdtcreator
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said he would advise an Irish woman fired from an Israeli company to seek legal advice if her dismissal was over her political views.

Speaking in the Dail, Solidarity TD Mick Barry raised the dismissal of Courtney Carey from her role as a customer care team lead at Israeli tech company Wix, which employs 500 people in Dublin.

Mr Barry said: She commented online about what she described correctly as the indiscriminate bombing of Gaza. She was fired from her job for doing so. I am calling on the Irish Congress of Trade Unions to speak out on this case.

It could have a chilling effect on thousands of workers in this country who wish to speak out against a brutal war. It also creates a terrible precedent whereby workers can be fired for expressing a political point of view.

Ms Carey posted on LinkedIn Free Palestine and Israel is a terrorist state prior to her dismissal.

She separately wrote that human rights groups had concluded that Israel is guilty of the crime of apartheid and that it had cut off food, water and electricity to more than two million people in the Gaza strip.

She later said she condemns all forms of terrorism regardless of the perpetrator or victim.

The president of the Israeli software company said it had decided to part ways with Ms Carey.

    ,    : pic.twitter.com/r2F0kTWlwS  Nir Zohar (@nirzo) October 23, 2023

Nir Zohar said: Wix is a global company, it is an open and a liberal company. We would never try to limit anyones political views, we do however also hold a strong set of internal values about our team spirit, partnership and friendship.

These accusations in such troubling times not only harm our Israeli teams spirit, they also threaten the great connection between our Dublin offices with our 500 team members and their Israeli colleagues.

People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett told the Dail that the case was particularly disturbing.

He said: They sacked her because she had put posts online that according to her are quite mild posts, where she essentially laid the responsibility for the current violence in Gaza on the shoulders of the Israeli government for its apartheid policies, its occupation and its siege of Gaza.

In response, Mr Varadkar said he did not know the details or facts of the case and therefore could not pass judgment.

However, he added: Under Irish employment law, it is not okay to dismiss somebody because of their political views.

I believe that to be wrong and would encourage the woman concerned to seek advice, whether from the WRC, a trade union or a solicitor, because it may well constitute wrongful dismissal and there are remedies that would then apply.

Of course, all the facts would need to be known before we know what the outcome will be.

Elsewhere, Tanaiste Micheal Martin told reporters he had not seen the posts, but said it would be unacceptable for someone to be fired for sharing a viewpoint if it did not call for violence.

Speaking at the Global Ireland Summit in Dublin, Mr Martin said, "Employees generally should be allowed their individual viewpoints. We live in a democracy here, we tolerate debate, freedom of speech and freedom of opinion."

People are entitled to different perspectives once they dont advocate for violence in pursuit of those objectives.

He added: We uphold the right of people for freedom of expression.
DIFFERENT to the normal garda stories, there is good 'nuacht' from An Garda Siochana this Wednesday.

Ten individuals proficient in the Irish language have been attested to Intake 231, eight of which were successfully recruited through the dedicated Irish language stream.

In a bid to ensure that these new Irish-speaking recruits are strategically placed where their language skills can be most effectively utilised, the garda commissioner announced their allocations to various divisions across the country.

Three of these newly attested gardai will be putting their Irish charm to work in the picturesque Kerry Division. Another three are set to make the Meath Division their new playground. One adventurous recruit is destined to tackle the twists and turns of the Donegal Division, while another will be weaving their magic in the vibrant Galway Division.

The commissioner stressed that the long-term goal is to have all these newly attested Irish speakers serve in Gaeltacht garda stations, where their language proficiency will play a crucial role in building trust and fostering positive relations with the local communities.

The Garda Commissioner is pleased to announce that 10 Irish speakers were attested recently as part of Intake 231.



Eight of those joined the organisation through the Irish stream in the recruitment process. pic.twitter.com/CIvK1UH3Z5  Garda Info (@gardainfo) October 25, 2023

The move to increase the number of Irish speakers within the garda organisation aligns with broader government efforts to protect and promote the Irish language.
New Dominion Bookshop will present a book reading and signing at 7 p.m. Friday with Jody Hobbs Hesler, who will read from her debut short-story collection, What Makes You Think Youre Supposed to Feel Better, released from Cornerstone Press. A conversation will follow with author Sharon Harrigan.

Hesler teaches creative writing at WriterHouse. She also writes and edits copy for Virginia Wine & Country and Charlottesville Family Magazine and reads for The Los Angeles Review.

The free event is co-sponsored by WriterHouse. The bookshop staff recommends arriving early to get the best seating. Go to ndbookshop.com or call (434) 295-2552 for information.

Revalation Vineyards also will present local author Jody Hobbs Hesler at 5 p.m. Nov. 3. She will read from What Makes You Think Youre Supposed to Feel Better as part of the Books Meet Wine World Series. For details, go torevalationvineyards.com or call (540) 407-1236.

New Dominion Bookshop will host a book talk and signing with Jeremy Norton at 7 p.m. Saturday. He will speak about Trauma Sponges: Dispatches from the Scarred Heart of Emergency Response, his new memoir.

Norton has served as a firefighter/EMT with the Minneapolis Fire Department since 2000. Promoted to captain in 2007, he leads Station 17 in south Minneapolis. He has a masters degree in creative writing from Boston University and taught creative writing at Loft Literary Center before joining the fire department.

The bookshop staff recommends arriving early to get the best seating. For details, go to ndbookshop.com or call (434) 295-2552.

Jefferson-Madison Regional Library will present the following events in the coming week:

10 a.m. Friday at Mint Springs Park: Nature Wonder Walk is for adults, teens and children. Meet next to the Little Free Library in the parking lot next to the Upper Lake. Registration recommended, but not required. Presented by Crozet Library.

10 a.m. Friday at Scottsville Library: Computer Basics Workshop helps adults grasp the basics of files, toolbars, icons and more.

10:30 a.m. at Crozet Library: Thank You, First Responders gives visitors a chance to meet Albemarle County fire, police and rescue personnel. Inclement weather cancels the event.

2 p.m. Friday at Louisa County Library: Accessing Affordable Wi-Fi at Home is a workshop for adults.

11 a.m. Saturday at Central Library: The Wildlife Center of Virginias new book, Bailey the Bear Needs Help! by Christy Gove, will be featured. Listen to readings from the true story of a black bear treated at the center and meet animal ambassadors.

2 p.m. Saturday at Scottsville Library: The Wildlife Center of Virginia will present a reading from Bailey the Bear Needs Help! and introduce animal ambassadors.

Noon Sunday at Shady Grove Baptist Church in Gum Spring: The JMRL Bookmobile will be at the Community Harvest Festival. Plan on attending storytime at 1:30 p.m.

Theres still time to go to blog.jmrl.org and fill out JMRLs Strategic Planning Survey to share your opinions on future library needs and services.

The Wildlife Center of Virginia will be at Barnes & Noble at 5 p.m. Saturday, when Christy Gove will read from Bailey the Bear Needs Help! and sign copies of the book. She also is the author of Greta the Great Horned Owl and Maggie the One-Eyed Peregrine Falcon. An education animal from the Wildlife Center also will be on hand.

Gordonsville Friends of the Library will have its fall quarterly meeting at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Gordonsville Library. Everyone is welcome.
The Global Anthrax Vaccine Market is estimated to surpass a revenue of US$ 1,006.33 million by 2031 from US$ 599 million in 2022. The global market will grow at a CAGR of 6.7% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2031.

The anthrax vaccine market is experiencing a strong growth pattern. This can be due to the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases in both humans and animals and the growing awareness about these diseases. Additionally, there has been a rise in the dosage of the anthrax vaccine, contributing to the markets expansion. Furthermore, the market is likely to face heightened competition as biopharmaceutical companies are likely to enter the scene, driven by increased funding for anthrax research and the development of vaccines.

A Request of this Sample Report Here- https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/anthrax-vaccine-market

Anthrax represents a substantial economic and public health threat to nations. According to the NCBI, the disease is prevalent in various regions globally, with southern and eastern Europe being particularly affected. Annually, there are between 20,000 to 100,000 anthrax cases in animals worldwide, and approximately 1.8 billion individuals live in areas prone to anthrax, placing them at direct risk. These areas are primarily located in Africa, Europe, and Asia. Enhancing surveillance, diagnosis, and response to outbreaks can contribute to the prevention of anthrax in both animals and humans. Due to its high prevalence rate and the severity of infection, preventive healthcare organizations prioritize addressing this disease.

In accordance with this, the World Organization of Animal Health (WOAH) recorded 267 instances of anthrax in animals in Europe between 2005 and 2022. 251 cases were observed in domestic animals and 16 in wildlife. The existence of numerous biothermal pits and burial sites for deceased cattle across the country provides favorable conditions for the emergence of new anthrax outbreaks. Although the majority of confirmed cases were found in cattle, isolated incidents were also reported in dogs, horses, and pigs. Furthermore, the increasing consumption of beef, pork, and poultry further amplifies the risk of anthrax. Consequently, the growing number of cases contributes to the expansion of the global market.

Government Awareness Program and Companies R&D Activities: Rising Growth Opportunities for the Market

As the number of anthrax infections continues to rise, there is a growing global awareness about the importance of anthrax vaccines. Governments and companies are implementing awareness programs to educate people about the risks associated with anthrax and the need for vaccination. For example, in August 2023, the Lagos State University of Science and Technology conducted a workshop to educate residents about anthrax disease. Similarly, in July 2023, Indonesias Health Ministry raised awareness about the potential spread of anthrax spores from livestock to humans in Yogyakarta. Additionally, in June 2023, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, along with its development partners, took preventive measures against anthrax outbreaks in neighboring countries within the West African sub-region. This increasing awareness is driving the growth of the global anthrax vaccine market.

Continued research and development efforts aimed at creating safer and more effective anthrax vaccines are a significant trend influencing the global market. In 2020, companies invested around US$ 42 billion in biopharmaceutical research and development, with a portion of that funding dedicated to improving anthrax vaccines. Collaborations between biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms are also increasing to enhance vaccine efficacy and reduce the vaccination schedule. For instance, GlaxoSmithKline successfully conducted Phase II trials for a new anthrax vaccine in 2022, demonstrating the ongoing advancements in this field. These developments highlight the potential for future growth in the anthrax vaccine market.

Asia Pacific to Generate About US$ 211.26 Million of Revenue in the Global Market

By 2030, the Asia Pacific market is likely to expand to a market value of US$ 211.26 million, with a CAGR of 8.8%. The market is rising in emerging economies like China and India owing to better healthcare infrastructures and more public awareness of health issues. The disease has a wide geographic prevalence because cases have been reported in several Asian countries.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), the incidence of human anthrax in China has been relatively low in recent years, but there has been an increase in reported cases in 2021. From 2018 to 2021, a total of 1,244 cases of human anthrax and 53 outbreaks were reported in China. The regions most affected by anthrax were primarily located in the western and northeastern parts of the country. It was found that young and middle-aged men involved in animal husbandry were at a higher risk of contracting anthrax. All reported outbreaks were associated with exposure to infected livestock, and a total of 296 cases of livestock anthrax were reported. Anthrax remains an endemic disease in China, with a significant number of human cases reported each year. This rising number of cases drives the demand for the anthrax vaccine market.

Several producers are working on developing anthrax vaccines in response to the increased demand, which is helping the market expand. For instance, after starting the development project more than 20 years ago, South Korea is currently in the process of procuring a domestic anthrax vaccine in October 2023.

The establishment of production facilities by manufacturers in China will help advance the development of these vaccines mass production and distribution, which will drive market expansion in the area. The robust market expansion can be due to Japans extensive vaccine production facilities and its top-notch healthcare system.

For The Full Report, Please Follow This Link- https://www.astuteanalytica.com/industry-report/anthrax-vaccine-market

Key Takeaways for the Global Anthrax Vaccine Market

In terms of Type, Cell-free PA vaccines have become a major source of revenue in the global anthrax vaccine market. These vaccines have proven to be effective in preventing anthrax infections and have gained widespread adoption. With revenue exceeding $366.5 million, they have emerged as a significant segment in the market.

In terms of Application, the animal segment is the primary consumer in the anthrax vaccine market, generating revenue of more than $586.7 million in 2022. This substantial revenue highlights the importance of anthrax vaccination in safeguarding animal populations globally.

In terms of Region, Latin America was the largest Anthrax vaccine market, generating $243 million in revenue in 2022.

Top Players in the Global Anthrax Vaccine Market

Colorado Serum

Emergent BioDefense Corporation (BioThrax)

Indian Immunologicals

IVPM

Merck

Merial

Porton Biopharma Limited

Prondil

Zoetis, Inc.

PharmAthene, Inc.

Other Promienent Players

Market Segmentation Overview:

By Type

Cell-free PA Vaccines

Live Vaccines

By Application

Animal

Human

By End Users

Hospitals and Clinics

Veterinary Centers

Others

By Region

North America

The U.S.



Canada



Mexico



Europe

Western Europe

The UK



Germany



France



Italy



Spain



Rest of Western Europe



Eastern Europe

Poland



Russia



Rest of Eastern Europe



Asia Pacific

China



India



Japan



South Korea



Australia & New Zealand



ASEAN



Rest of Asia Pacific



Middle East & Africa

UAE



Saudi Arabia



South Africa



Rest of MEA



South America

Argentina



Brazil



Rest of South America



Get a Free Sample Report Here- https://www.astuteanalytica.com/request-sample/anthrax-vaccine-market

About Astute Analytica

Astute Analytica is a global analytics and advisory company that has built a solid reputation in a short period, thanks to the tangible outcomes we have delivered to our clients. We pride ourselves in generating unparalleled, in-depth and uncannily accurate estimates and projections for our very demanding clients spread across different verticals. We have a long list of satisfied and repeat clients from a wide spectrum including technology, healthcare, chemicals, semiconductors, FMCG, and many more. These happy customers come to us from all across the Globe. They are able to make well-calibrated decisions and leverage highly lucrative opportunities while surmounting the fierce challenges all because we analyze for them the complex business environment, segment-wise existing and emerging possibilities, technology formations, growth estimates, and even the strategic choices available. In short, a complete package. All this is possible because we have a highly qualified, competent, and experienced team of professionals comprising of business analysts, economists, consultants, and technology experts. In our list of priorities, you-our patron come at the top. You can be sure of best cost-effective, value-added package from us, should you decide to engage with us.

    

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by Adam Buckman , Featured Columnist, October 26, 2023

HBO had the annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony for 28 consecutive years right up until Disney swooped in to scoop up the rights this year.

Disneys swoop and scoop was announced just last month. The story came as a big surprise, since the show had been associated closely with HBO since 1995.

It was a news story that did not leak or break anywhere before the press release went out on September 28.

The coup represents another victory for streaming. This years telecast will represent the first time that it will premiere as a live-streaming attraction, and not on pay cable.

Plans call for this years show to premiere on Disney+, where it will stream live in its entirety starting at 8 p.m. Eastern on Friday, November 3. After the live show, it will continue to stream on Disney+.

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ABC will then have an abridged version, but that will not air on the network until two months later -- Monday, January 1, 2024, New Years Day.

ABCs show will consist of curated performance highlights and standout moments from the live show, said the September 28 press release, which was issued by ABC, not Disney+.

The ABC version of the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is being tailored to fit within the parameters of network prime time. It will run for three hours starting at 8 p.m. Eastern.

Presumably, the Disney+ live version of the show from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn will run for as long as the show lasts.

This years inductees are: Kate Bush, Sheryl Crow, Missy Elliott, George Michael (posthumously), Willie Nelson (now 90 years old), Rage Against the Machine and The Spinners.

Inductees in special categories are hip-hop pioneer DJ Kool Herc and seminal rock guitarist Link Wray (posthumously) for Musical Influence; Chaka Khan, Al Kooper and Bernie Taupin for Musical Excellence; and Soul Train impresario Don Cornelius, posthumous recipient of this years Ahmet Ertugan Award.

Presenters and performers will include Stevie Nicks, Carrie Underwood, LL Cool J and Elton John.

The first class of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame honorees were inducted in 1986. The famed museum in Cleveland opened in September 1995, the same year that the annual telecast aired for the first time on HBO.

HBOs association with the annual induction show was so long that the only other such relationship similar to it is the much longer association of ABC with the Academy Awards -- 48 years and counting.

The odds do not favor any other company wresting the Oscars away from Disney anytime soon, but in todays TV business, you never know.
In the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, Northwest China's Gansu Province, there are murals of three rabbits sharing three ears. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Interestingly, the unique murals are also seen on chinaware from Egypt, on clocks in some churches in Germany, and on tile paintings in the United Kingdom, all thanks to the ancient Silk Road that connected China with these faraway places. "The pattern was first found in Dunhuang in the 6th century. It flowed to Central and West Asia through the Silk Road between the 9th and 11th century, and entered Egypt and European countries from the 13th to 16th century," said Zhao Yanlin, a researcher at the Dunhuang Academy. The city of Dunhuang in northwest China's Gansu Province was a pivotal hub on the ancient Silk Road. Through the road, camel caravans and commercial fleets boosted the exchange of goods, which also stimulated diverse civilization exchanges between the East and the West. Passing on the tradition of the Silk Road, today's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is also committed to promoting mutual understanding, respect, and admiration among different civilizations. "The BRI is a very comprehensive platform for global cooperation in human history, and it is a great civilization project," said Stephan Ossenkopp from the Schiller Institute, a German think tank. China proposes building the BRI into a road connecting different civilizations, replacing estrangement with exchanges, replacing clashes with mutual learning, and replacing a sense of superiority with coexistence, thus boosting mutual understanding, respect, and trust among different countries. Over the past decade since the BRI was put forward, diverse cultural exchanges among BRI countries have been flourishing. By the end of June, China had signed cooperation with 144 BRI countries in the sector of culture and tourism, while alliances of Silk Road-featured theaters, art festivals, museums, galleries, and libraries had been established. At the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation that concluded in Beijing last week, foreign guests were impressed by the glamour of traditional Chinese culture. "Chinese culture is open and inclusive, and the BRI has pushed forward the mutual learning among civilizations as well as cultural integration and innovation," said Gulzhan Ramankulova, a journalist from Kazakhstan who covered the forum. At the forum, China pledged more detailed measures to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges, as it announced eight major steps that it will take to support the joint pursuit of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. The measures include hosting a special forum to enhance civilization dialogue with BRI partner countries, launching the International Tourism Alliance of Silk Road Cities, and continuing with the Chinese government scholarship Silk Road Program. China also released an initiative to promote people-to-people bonds among BRI countries and announced the setting up of a public fund. While visioning for joint pursuit of BRI, China also put forward building a community of a shared future for humanity and introduced the Global Civilization Initiative, one of a series of far-sighted conceptions, for the benefit of the world's civilization. "No civilization is superior to others, whether it is from the East or West," said Luis Rafael Gonzalez Hernandez, director of Center for Analysis and International Studies of the University of the Caribbean. "An important implication of the joint pursuit of Belt and Road cooperation is to realize that all civilizations can live and thrive in diversity," he said. According to the white paper titled "The Belt and Road Initiative: A Key Pillar of the Global Community of Shared Future" released earlier this month, by June 2023, China has signed more than 200 BRI cooperation agreements with more than 150 countries and 30 international organizations across five continents, yielding a number of signature projects and small-scale yet impactful projects. (With input from agencies)


A heated shouting match broke out on the steps of the University of Virginia Rotunda Wednesday afternoon between students protesting Israels ongoing siege of Gaza and students protesting what they say is an endorsement of Gaza-based terror group Hamas.

Hundreds of students from UVa and nearby schools staged a walkout Wednesday afternoon to protest Israels military response to Hamas surprise attack on Israeli civilians on Oct. 7.

Most of the protest remained peaceful until students participating in the walkout grew frustrated with a small handful of counterprotesters holding an Israeli flag on the Rotunda steps.

Its disrespectful, said an Albemarle High School student who learned of the walkout on social media before deciding to attend. Theyre bombing children every day. And theyre standing up there in front of the Palestine flag.

Another UVa student yelled at the counterprotesters from near the bottom of the steps.

How many more children have to die for you to shut the fk up? he shouted.

The walkout was one of many that occurred on college campuses across the country on Wednesday.

Sheets of paper handed out to attendees listed three demands: that UVa call for the end of the siege in Gaza, acknowledge the ongoing genocide and divest and cut ties with weapons manufacturers that fund Israels genocide. The paper also included a QR code that took students to a drafted email to be sent to university administration.

Roughly this time last year, UVA, was awarded a Department of Defense contract with Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin being named as industrial advisors, the five-paragraph email reads in part. Just as President Shannon took up students calls to oppose the Vietnam war in the 70s, it is our firm hope that President Ryan and the rest of the University Administration will carry on this legacy and stand on the right side of history today.

Protesters were discouraged from speaking with media, and all declined to provide their names to The Daily Progress for fear of being targeted for their views.

They marched from the south steps of the Rotunda, past McIntire Amphitheatre and turned right down the West Range heading back to the south Rotunda lawn. Stand with Palestine, signs read. Israel, Israel, you cant hide. Youre committing genocide, they chanted.

As the march began, one UVa student said he was concerned about how his tuition was being spent.

Universities including UVa are investing in Boeing, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin and other weapons manufacturers directly supporting the genocide in the apartheid state of Palestine, the student told The Daily Progress. Folks are here today to ask UVa to stop investing in the destruction of a people and an ethnic cleansing.

Asked about these alleged investments, UVa spokeswoman Bethanie Glover referred The Daily Progress to the University of Virginia Investment Management Company, or UVIMCO. While the organization did not immediately respond to a request for comment, its website describes it as proud to secure solid long-term returns to further the Universitys mission to be both great and good.

After the march, a trio of UVa students spoke to an impassioned crowd from the Rotunda steps. Two of them had also led a teach-in last week on the other side of the Rotunda which they framed as a contextualization of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

The group that organized that earlier event, Students for Justice in Palestine, released a strongly worded statement praising Hamas Oct. 7 attack as a step toward liberation for Palestinians. The events that took place yesterday are a step towards a free Palestine. They reflect the power and resilience of the Palestinian people, the statement reads in part.

Since Oct. 7, the Israeli government has permitted foreign correspondents and leaders to view video footage from the surprise attack, footage it refuses to release to the general public. Journalists in Tel Aviv have confirmed the content of the video: children being shot, families being slaughtered, decapitated human remains, burning bodies and what has been described as evidence of rape.

Roughly 150 people attended the groups teach-in. On Wednesday, a significantly larger group of students was rallied.

One of the organizers on Wednesday told the crowd hed gotten word that professors had been informed that they should not cancel class and honor the walkout.

To me that means these suckers think they can ignore us, and were here today to say no the fk you cant, he yelled, greeted by a roar of cheers.

Several feet away were two protesters holding a Palestinian flag. Not far behind them was first-year student Matan Goldstein holding up an Israeli flag with another classmate.

Im with the flag because Im against this act of ignorance. I can promise you that more than half of these people never went to the Middle East, said Goldstein, who came to UVa from Israel, where his family remains. The people who are aligning themselves with this group are aligning themselves with a Palestinian terrorist organization that celebrates the murder, massacre, rape and burning of Israeli victims, both Arabs and Jews alike. Its ridiculous.

The same high school students that later shouted at Goldstein told The Daily Progress they were from the Middle East.

[Israel] got bombed once, and every country was helping out. With Palestine, theyre getting bombed every single day and nobodys saying anything. Nobodys standing up for them, one said.

The student was referring to Hamas Oct. 7 surprise attack on Israel, when it stunned the nation and the Western world by crossing the border and slaughtering more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians. In what was effectively a modern-day pogrom, the terrorist group that rules Gaza killed 260 people at a music festival. In other parts of the country, entire families were taken from their homes and slaughtered. Much of the video footage shared online and obtained by the Israeli government was filmed by Hamas terrorists themselves and distributed. More than 200 people, including children, were taken hostage and are still being held in Gaza.

In response, Israel has laid siege to the densely packed Gaza Strip territory, using missile strikes to decimate entire neighborhoods. A blockade on both the Israeli and Egyptian borders has cut off access to food, electricity, fuel and water. With its border restricted for nearly two decades by both of its neighbors, Gaza has long struggled to access clean water. According to a 2017 report by Amnesty International, up to 95% of the territories water supply is contaminated and unfit for human consumption. Now under siege, the water infrastructure is collapsing and Gazans are increasingly limited to dirty water. And with fuel running out, hospitals are stopping emergency services.

Gruesome images from Gaza show the broken bodies of children killed in airstrikes. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 6,500 people have died in the territory since Oct. 7, including 756 within a 24-hour period, 344 of which were reportedly children. The U.S. government has cast doubt on those figures; President Biden has said he has no confidence in the number that Palestinians are using.

Miles away from the conflict, tensions were running high Wednesday on UVa Grounds. At the Rotunda rally, a number of high school students were so upset by the presence of counterprotesters that a walkout participant felt it necessary to console them.

Stop. Walk away. Weve said what we have to say, she said to them.

Asked if the protesters were making any legitimate points, Goldstein replied, No.

Do people realize that 20% of Israeli citizens are Arabs? That the Israeli Defense Force is also made up of Muslims and Christians? he asked. He pointed out that Israel told 1.1 million Palestinians to evacuate to the south of the country before violence escalated in the north. The United Nations called the order impossible and horrendous at the time.

People who remained are either the families of the Hamas terrorists or those that have been asked by Hamas to remain there are human shields, Goldstein said, as another student walked past, patting Goldstein on the shoulder and telling him to stay strong.

My family came from Baghdad, from Iraq. Where are Iraqs Jews? Where are Libyas Jews? Goldstein asked before claiming that there are 20,000 Jews in the Arab world. In Israel, there are 2 million Arabs. Theres a double standard here. People are looking at one side and forgetting the other.

One of the walkout organizers Wednesday is Palestinian.

I have been through three wars, he yelled to the crowd. I cannot relate to what Palestinians of the Gaza Strip right now are going through, because this is no longer a war. This is a genocide.

Were not here to fight. Were not here to argue. Were not even here to debate. Were just here to send a message, he said to cheers.

He noted that 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes.

Were here for peace. Were here to acknowledge that 1.4 million is not just a number, he said. Palestinians have been suffering every single day for 75 years. So what do we have to say?

The crowd erupted in unison: Free, free Palestine! Free, free Palestine!

Broken threads: College clothing made in factories rife with labor violations, poverty wages Garment workers making college logo gear for top U.S. universities deal with long hours, labor rights violations, wage theft and poverty wages on a regular basis. Can universities do more?
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, October 25, 2023

Google this week will begin to roll out a beauty category for hair based on artificial intelligence (AI), adding to features already available for lips, eyes and skin (foundation). It enables shoppers to try on hair dye virtually to test colors.

The AR Beauty feature launches with L'Oreal. While the brand is known for its hair color, it also known for gadgets built on integrated technology. HAPTA is the worlds first handheld lipstick applicator designed for people with limited hand and arm mobility.



Google's technology allows consumers to shop for at-home hair colors see different shades from LOreal, for example. Brands such as Splat and Revlon will become available soon.

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The new try-on experience through AR Beauty ads makes advertisers eligible to replace the ad product image in Shopping ads. The interactive experience will serve up alongside relevant product information to help beauty brands showcase products.

Google launched its first AR Beauty features about three years ago. Shoppers tend to interact with beauty products 10% more when AR is available to assist, per Google.

The foundation category also is being expanded. While consumers can try out different shades on 148 diverse models, they also will have the ability to personally try on the foundation  virtually  to find the perfect shade.

More than 50 beauty brands have already begun to use AR on Google, such as Covergirl, Laura Mercier, and Makeup by Mario. Google said it will accept AR assets from a variety of data providers, including PulpoAR, and Perfect.

Its an interesting concept, but many of these AR-beauty tools require the consumer to give the technology access to their camera on the computer or mobile phone. Not all will oblige.

However, Forrester Research predicts that in 2024, digital commerce will go small, artificial, and augmented. The firm estimates that generative AI (GAI) will move into a valuable position for digital businesses, while cutting-edge tech like augmented reality (AR) will help a small number of firms improve efficiency.
by Erik Oster , October 25, 2023

Rockstar Energy unveiled a national "Proud Hasta Los Huesos" campaign featuring a limited-edition collection of Dia de los Muertos-themed cans designed by Mexican artist and illustrator Joaquin Nava.

For the series, Nava designed art showcased on cans of Rockstar Pure Zero, Brisk, Crush and Manzanita Sol, to celebrate Dia de los Muertos, a day devoted to honoring departed family and loved ones with ofrendas, or altars, and feasts. His art was inspired by images of La Catrina, one of the most recognizable icons of the holiday.

"Collaborating with Rockstar Energy to infuse my passion into these can designs underscores the universal language of art and culture, serving as a reminder that when creativity and tradition intersect, the result can be truly exceptional," Nava said in a statement, adding that the cans paid homage to cultural heritage and presented a way to share Mexican culture with the world.

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The brand is also inviting audiences to follow Rockstar Energy on Instagram for a chance to win a Rockstar Pure Zero ceremonial box with items to incorporate into their at-home ofrendas including: Rockstar Pure Zero Dia de los Muertos limited-edition cans, a calavera (skull) candle, and a temporary face tattoo with the Catrina skull design.

"For Latinos, honoring family and preserving tradition are an intrinsic part of our lifestyle, and we celebrate them with pride and passion," Esperanza Teasdale, vice president & general manager, Hispanic business unit, PepsiCo Beverages North America said in a release. "Rockstar Energy's Proud Hasta Los Huesos campaign was created to honor our heritage while giving a platform for Hispanic artists to shine and share their talents with the world.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, October 26, 2023

Loyal customers are not easy to come by, and promoting a product or website to gain more traffic from search or other media might be an afterthought for many businesses.

For some small publishers, attempts to refresh content to stay on top of changes to Googles and Microsofts search indexes has become a nightmare. But developers at Microsoft Advertising believe they have a solution through a U.S. pilot program that requires a small tag inserted on the companys website.

The revamped pubCenter program, a project that Microsoft launched about 15 years ago, requires publishers to insert a tag to enable personalized and relevant native and display ads that match consumer intent. It aims to help creators and small to medium-sized publishers earn revenue or offset costs, and allows publishers to determine the number of ads that will serve up and where they are placed on the site, as well as block content that is not relevant to site visitors.

advertisement advertisement

Similar to AdSense, publishers pick an ad format and add website codes to earn revenue each time an ad is served on the website. The system will only serve ads when it can predict a higher bid.

Keeping up with changes can become expensive, especially if the publisher depends on outside sources to support content.

While advertisers compete for ad space across the Microsoft Advertising Network, bloggers and website owners are trying to build an audience with strong content, such as secrets on best local places to hike or restaurants to visit.

The ad is intended to serve up alongside relevant content. For instance, if a publisher has monetized its site with Google AdSense and now is interested in trying another ad network, pubCenter can enable mediation with existing Google AdSense account, and increase revenue made from advertising through Microsoft pubCenter.

More traffic to a website means more revenue. An engaged audience with impactful ads can keep them, making it less likely that they will click away.

Microsoft Advertising believes pubCenter puts the changes in the publishers hands because through this solution it can decide how to manage and direct ad inventory.

Microsoft did not describe the technology used to redesign and relaunch the system, but it likely has been rebuilt with generative artificial intelligence or machine learning technologies.
by Richard Whitman , Columnist, October 26, 2023

From a financial standpoint GroupM is WPPs biggest business unit, accounting for 62% of the companys revenue.

WPP CEO Mark Read called the media arm one of the strongest parts of our offering, in remarks to analysts on Thursday. But he and GroupM management have concluded that we can do better.

Which is why GroupM is undergoing a reorganization that will result in client facing agencies Mindshare, Mediacom and Wavemaker sharing back-office facilities and common product platforms that will free hundreds of millions in cost savings. Some of that savings will be poured into developing new capabilities designed to make GroupM more competitive than it is and further optimize client media plans and spending.

advertisement advertisement WPP will hold an investor conference in January that will further detail the GroupM reorganization and strategic plans for the next three to five years.

GroupM has been hit hard of late by spending pullbacks from its large technology clientsa major factor in the firms organic revenue decline in Q3, particularly in the U.S. which was down more than 4%.

Read referred to comments by Meta executives earlier this week indicating that the companys marketing spending is down 24% this year. Read predicted that spending by the tech sector will bounce back sometime next year. They need to communicate, Read said, to clients, customers and other constituencies.

The firm has also acknowledged that China has seen a significant drop in spending this year and visibility is not great, Read said. The macro remains cautious and uncertain in the country.
by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, October 26, 2023

Place Exchange has extended its support of digital out of home (DOOH) media buys across Europe through a partnership with Clear Channel.

Driving this growth, we are seeing increasing demand from buyers to transact DOOH programmatically to capture the many benefits it can deliver, said James Power, commercial director of EMEA at Place Exchange.

Power, citing Statista-curated data, expects DOOH spending in Europe to increase by more than 7.27% annually from 2023 to 2027, resulting in a market worth $4.29 billion by 2027.

The new approaches are increasingly demonstrating the proven business impact that DOOH can have on advertisers, from upper-funnel brand awareness to lower-funnel conversions and sales.

Brands understand that OOH in general delivers trusted high-impact messaging in the physical world, free of many of the issues that challenge other channels, such as bot fraud, ad blocking, and brand safety, he said.

Countries added to the list of digital ad buys include throughout United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Finland, Norway, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and Poland. Its done through the integration of Clear Channel LaunchPAD. a pan-European advertising platform offering programmatic, automated, and direct buying channels, through supply-side platform (SSP) partners like Place Exchange.

advertisement advertisement

Advertisers through the partnership will have an option to buy nearly 13,000 Clear Channel DOOH screens across multiple environments such as roadside, supermarkets, malls, and transit, alongside other programmatic channels like online digital, mobile, and CTV.

When asked to cite challenges to this expansion, infrastructure considerations, country laws or restrictions, Powers said DOOH spans a diverse array of different venues, formats, and technologies, and the ecosystem is still developing standards to govern things like integrations and measurement that will help accelerate the growth of the channel even further.

Place Exchange and Clear Channel each have similar partnerships in this region, but will continue to support this partnership.
by Teresa Buyikian , October 26, 2023

For anyone who has ever wished for a QSR/fast casual restaurant that serves both pizza and burgers on the same menu, Fat Brands has made your dreams a reality, at least in Dallas.

Fat (Fresh Authentic Tasty) Brands has combined two of its well-known chains, Fatburger and Round Table Pizza, into one co-branded location in Dallas. The first-of-its-kind 3,500-square-foot restaurant, located in Dallas Lantana neighborhood, offers full-service, full-bar, casual dining and menus from both chains.

The new co-branded location will allow guests to enjoy the best of both brands in one space, creating a seamless experience that caters to a range of tastes, said Taylor Wiederhorn, chief development officer of FAT Brands, in a release. With the success Fatburger has seen co-branding with Buffalo's Cafe and Express, we're eager to see this new venture with Round Table Pizza.

advertisement advertisement

There are three additional Round Table and Fatburger co-branded restaurants also planned for the greater Dallas area, all operated by SNM Management Group.

The 70+-year-old Los Angeles native Fatburger, with over 100 units in the U.S. touts burgers that can be customized with everything from bacon and eggs to chili and onion rings..

Founded in 1959 in Menlo Park, California, Round Table Pizza has promoted itself as Pizza Royalty for using homemade dough, a signature three-cheese blend and ingredients topped to the edge. The 400-unit nationwide chain has recently revamped its logo and now sells Round Table Pizza branded merchandise such as T-shirts, masks, bags and hoodies on its website.

Fat Brands total of 18 restaurant brand, also includes Johnny Rockets, Fazolis, Twin Peaks, Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker, Native Grill & Wings, Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, with more than 2,300 units worldwide.
by Wendy Davis @wendyndavis, October 26, 2023

Consumers who say they became addicted to casino apps downloaded from Google, Meta and Apple are pressing an appeals court to revive claims against the tech platforms.

Apple, Google and Meta act as the cashiers cage for a bevy of online casinos that offer slot machine gambling, complete with spinning reels and flashing lights, lawyers for the consumers argue in papers filed Wednesday with the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

The tech platforms broker the transfer of billions of dollars from eager gamblers to the slot machine operators, keeping a 30% cut for themselves, counsel adds.

The argument comes in a battle that began in 2000, when gamblers across the country sued the platforms for allegedly distributing the apps, processing in-app payments for virtual currency, and taking a commission on the sale of virtual currency. The consumers also alleged that the apps themselves were illegal in some states -- a contention that hasn't yet been litigated.

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The tech companies argued the matter should be dismissed at an early stage under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protect companies from liability over material created by third parties.

U.S. District Court Judge Edward Davila in the Northern District of California rejected that argument, ruling that Section 230 doesn't apply to claims that the platforms profited by processing payments for in-game currency.

But Davila also said reasonable minds could differ about the interpretation of Section 230, and authorized an immediate appeal to the 9th Circuit.

The tech companies recently argued to the circuit court that the entire matter should have been covered by Section 230. The companies contend that the claims all hinge on the apps' content -- games that allowed people to gamble using virtual currency.

The users countered on Wednesday that Section 230 wasn't meant to give tech companies blanket immunity for nearly everything that they do, so long as it relates in some way to user content.

The platforms seek immunity under the Communications Decency Act for their active, voluntary role in enabling illegal gambling, but their conduct in brokering unlawful transactions is worlds apart from the publishing activity that Section 230 protects, counsel for the consumers writes.

At its core, this case targets the platforms decision to act as banker, broker, and profiteer for illegal gambling enterprises, the lawyers add. Their liability arises from operating the casino cashiers cage, not from any exercise of editorial discretion or anything even resembling traditional publishing activity.

The battle is one of several recent cases that center on the scope of Section 230.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals recently sided against tech companies in several of those matters. For instance, earlier this month, the court confirmed a prior ruling that allowed Facebook users to sue the platform over housing ads that allegedly discriminated based on users' race, sex, age or other comparable factors.

The appeals court rejected Meta's argument that it was protected by Section 230, writing that if the allegations in the complaint were true, Facebook would have been a co-developer of the ads.

The same court also recently ruled that Section 230 didn't override a local California housing ordinance that prohibited Airbnb and HomeAway.com from processing some payments.
The opening episode of Koffee With Karan season 8 saw real-life couple Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh gracing the couch.

The show was all about their romance that led to their wedding in 2018. The couple also treated fans with a glimpse of their wedding footage and talked about how they dealt with Deepikas depression and mental illness.

 Disney+ Hotstar

While the majority of the episode was quite emotional and personal, it was the rapid fire round that gave a glimpse of the good ol Koffee With Karan that we all love.



During the round, Karan asked Ranveer, In a love triangle featuring you and Deepika, which male actor would you not mind being cast to be the third character?

Responding to this, Ranveer said, Ranbir", and went on to add, You wanted to make Sangam with the three of us, right?

To this, Karan replied in affirmative. Ranveer then pulled him up for not going ahead with the plan and said, You are always boasting but make nothing concrete.

Karan then stated he could still remake Sangam and asked them to Sign it?, to which Deepika replied, Done. I am dying to (make it)", Karan added.

Ranbir imitates Raj Kapoor Sahab quite well tbh. I'm afraid Deepika doesn't have the ingenuous grace or softcore magnetism required for the character of Vyjayanthimala ji.  Indrani    (@that_coder_girl) October 26, 2023

Released in 1964, Sangam is a magnum opus directed by Raj Kapoor who also starred in it along with Rajendra Kumar and Vyjayanthimala.

The film is about a war veteran who returns from the dead to marry the love of his life only to realise that she was planning to marry his best friend.

 RK Films

Upon its release, it was considered as the longest-running film with a runtime of 238 minutes and was the first Indian film to be shot overseas.



It was the highest-grossing film of the year and allegedly inspired the 2001 Hollywood film Pearl Harbor starring Ben Affleck, Kate Beckinsale and Josh Hartnett.
Anirudh Ravichnader is called the King of Mass BGMs and while the whole country is still grooving to the beats of his songs from Leo and Jawan, Anirudh has been accused of the plagiarism once again.

 Instagram/Anirudh Ravichander

Yes, Leo's recent song, titled 'Ordinary Person,' which was composed by Anirudh, is facing allegations of copyright infringement. People are claiming that Anirudh has evidently borrowed the beats of the song from Otnicka's 'Where Are You?'.



Interestingly, the starting beats of both of the songs sound strikingly similar and Anirudh is facing constant flak regarding it.

One user reacted, How many of you felt the song Ordinary Person done by @anirudhofficial from the Tamil movie Leo is a master class copy of #Otnicka, a Belarusian artists song Where are you. Anirudh is a master-class copycat.

How many of you felt the song Ordinary Person done by @anirudhofficial from the Tamil movie Leo is a master class copy of #Otnicka, a Belarusian artists song Where are you. Anirudh is a master class copycat.  Rashid Sulthan K (@RashidSulthanK) October 24, 2023

Another user reacted, Why Must #AnirudhCopy music?? I don't understand at all. The first basic thing is to buy the rights of Song/Music before using it. even you don't do that.. how Anirudh could think today's world people won't find out ?? I'm just clueless.

Why Must #Anirudh Copy music?? I don't understand at all. The first basic thing is to buy the rights of Song/Music before using it. even you don't do that.. how Anirudh could think today's world  people won't find out ?? I'm just clueless. https://t.co/xiG7M6fkNF  KAMAL BHAI  (@iKamalBhai) October 24, 2023

One user wrote, Anirudh is copy paste ... Don't know to compose by his own all his songscopy cats...

Anirudh is copy paste ... Don't know to compose by his own all his songs copy cats...  ..  Arun prathap (@Mrprathaparun) October 23, 2023

Another user wrote, LEO SongCopy From Peaky Blinders WATCH TILL THE END.

Otnickas reaction

Though there have not been any legal progressions, Otnicka has shared his first reaction regarding the whole case.

He wrote, Guys, thanks for your messages about the movie "Leo". I can see everything, but it's physically impossible to answer everyone. The mail is overflowing with messages, Instagram, as well as thousands of comments on YouTube under the video Where Are You.The situation is very unclear We are looking into this and a little later I will give an assessment of everything that is happening. But I'm not accusing anyone yet.

Otnicka has also composed the music for the global hit series Peaky Blinders.

You can hear Anirudhs Ordinary Person from Leo here.

Anirudhs previous allegations

This is not the first time Anirudh has been accused of copying a song.

Previously, he faced allegations of plagiarism for copying Sannan's 'Don't Lie' to produce his own song 'Kalyana Vayasu' for the movie Kolamaavu Kokila.

But later, he issued an official statement on X, saying, For the lack of awareness, I work with a lot of music producers worldwide and this beat is licensed from @beatsbymantra.

5.5+Million Views in 4 days, 165K+Likes and still Trending at Number 1 Truly Grateful for this Support!



And for the lack of awareness, I work with a lot of music producers worldwide and this beat is licensed from @beatsbymantra #KalyaanaVayasu https://t.co/ryZJtcDCHU  Anirudh Ravichander (@anirudhofficial) May 21, 2018

Anirudhs superhit tracks

Anirudh Ravichander is called the Rockstar down South because he has produced multiple chartbusters such as Vaathi Coming, Arabic Kithu, Hukum, Marana Mass, Zinda Banda, and many more.
State Sen. Creigh Deeds and Republican Philip Hamilton are squaring off in the recently redistricted 11th Senate District, which includes Charlottesville, Albemarle, Amherst and Nelson counties and parts of Louisa County.

Deeds, a Democrat, has served in the General Assembly since 1992 and joined the Senate in 2001. Hamilton is a paralegal who ran for the House of Delegates in the 57th District but was soundly beaten by Sally Hudson in 2021.

This year the Republican primary election was canceled, granting Hamilton the nomination. Deeds bested Hudson in a competitive Democratic primary this summer.

Both candidates individually sat down with The Daily Progress to discuss their campaigns and legislative priorities.

Their interviews have been edited for clarity and concision.

Can you summarize your background for voters?

Hamilton: I was born in Norman, Oklahoma. I actually have an identical twin brother, and I am one of seven children. My father immigrated here from Iran before the shah was overthrown, and he moved to America for a better life to pursue the American dream. I spent all my public school years in Fairfax.

I went to George Mason University and studied paralegal studies, criminal justice. I was also part of the College Republicans. And this is shortly after leaving the Young Democrats, because I was president of the Young Democrats when I was in high school. And we had a debate and it became more of an agreeing session. So I switched parties, and havent looked back since then.

Deeds: I grew up in and raised my children in Bath County, where I was first elected as a commonwealths attorney in 1987. Ive been in the legislature 32 years, the last 22 in the Senate. I currently sit as co-chair of the Judiciary Committee. I sit on the Finance and Appropriations Committee and I chair the Capital Outlay Subcommittee. Im also a member of the Budget Conference, which is just a handful legislators that put the final budget together. Im on the Privileges and Elections Committee, the Commerce and Labor Committee, the Rules Committee.

I think Im one of the most prolific bill writers and also one of the people that get the most bills passed. In fact, in two of the last three years, I did get more bills passed than anybody else. You have to be able to work with people on both sides of the aisle. Ive proven I can do that.

If you win, what are going to be your legislative priorities?

Hamilton: The top one is certainly cutting taxes for all Virginians. I think that we need to take the budget surplus and give the peoples money back to the people. I think we desperately need a gasoline tax, not just a temporary one, but a permanent gasoline tax cut.

I disagree with the 2020 internal combustion engine ban. When California gets rid of their gasoline diesel vehicles, then Virginia will have to do the same, and I think its unconstitutional. We got to repeal that.

Im a big term-limits guy. People ask me like, What length of time do you propose? Some people say I should do it for eight years. I think thats too short. Ive said between 10 to 20 years, but Im leaning more towards the 20-year term, and I think its fair because it gives people enough time to gain seniority and then pass the baton to the next person.

Another top priority of mine is imposing a ban on cross hormone therapies, puberty blockers and gender reassignment surgeries for any child under the age of 18. I want to make it so its illegal for out-of-state children to come to gender clinics in Virginia and have it done. And I dont want to make it just a civil penalty. I want to make it a criminal penalty for doctors and nurses, even the schedulers to schedule these reassignment surgeries.

Deeds: Number one, over the long haul, fix educational funding. For years, weve talked about having a goal of teacher pay thats at the national average. Well, thats not a good goal. Were the 10th- or 11th-wealthiest state in the country. We ought to aim to have teacher pay commensurate with our wealth so we can attract the best talent to the classroom. I want to focus on making higher education more affordable. I want to focus on making sure we have vocational schools and that were doing a good job of job training, particularly through our community colleges.

Number two relates to health care. Not only mental health. The reality is in some parts of Virginia, we are struggling to provide basic services to people. Medicaid expansion kept some rural hospitals open, but theres still shortages throughout the state of workforce. Weve got a huge problem on our hands. Weve got to bring renewed attention to building our workforce out, and that that means youve got to maintain high reimbursement rates for Medicaid.

The third priority is making sure the other infrastructure of society is right. We have to have a multimodal system of transportation, not only investing in highways but trains and bike paths and walking trails. We have to focus on the other necessary part of the infrastructure, and thats fiber and broadband. High-speed broadband is critical to life now as electricity was in the 1930s when the federal government created rural electrification.

We can enshrine Roe v. Wade principles in the state constitution. Were going to make it easier for former felons to have their rights restored. We can pass a state constitutional amendment to undo the prohibition on same-sex marriage. There are a lot of things Im focused on.

Why did you decide to run?

Hamilton: For one, I think I have a much better shot at getting this with Amherst County being included in the district and Alleghany and Bath being removed. Amherst is a solid Republican area. Im going to win that county handily, and its a big population with 32,000 compared to 20,000 in the two former counties.

I have a lot more support from organizations like Convention of States, the Parent Party and Virginians for Children First. Im really encouraged that I have volunteers in every county. I truly believe that we can win this race, and if we do win, it will be one of the biggest upsets in Virginia.

Governor Youngkin has been talking about the need to flip the Senate. But what I have to ask the governor is that were three weeks away, why have you not supported my race? Hes not come to Charlottesville to rally. Hes not offered resources from Spirit of Virginia, which just recently raised $7 million. They have plenty of resources, and the governor has been working hard for other candidates.

Deeds: So much of the work that Ive been involved in is not finished. I enjoy public service. I enjoy trying to make a difference.

Ive described the process of mental health reform like eating an elephant. You take a big bite and you feel full, but you look at whats ahead of you and you know theres more work there than you will ever be able to have the opportunity to get done in your lifetime, much less a term of office. You can either walk away from it or you can just take another bite, and Im not done eating.

And youre foolish not to think that seniority doesnt matter. The reality is that the longer youre there, the more your responsibility and the ability to get things done grows. And Ive been there a while. Im one of the most senior people, and that matters.

Would you like to see any changes to the current abortion law in Virginia?

Hamilton: There are issues with where abortion law currently stands. Were the most liberal state in the South. The abortion clinics here in Charlottesville have had health violations. I think we need to have more stringent health oversight over the clinics, and really to protect the women who are getting them.

I do support having it be more restrictive. I do think that the governors support of a 15-week ban is appropriate. If theres legislation that comes forward to have it even lower than that, Id be open to that as well.

Deeds: I support Virginias existing law. The next step is to embed the law in the state constitution to make it harder to change. People ought to have control of their own reproductive lives.

Do you support Sages Law, which would require public schools to notify parents in case a student identifies as a gender other than his or her biological sex?

Hamilton: 100%. Unfortunately, folks like Deeds and other Democrats dont care about parental notification. I think thats really going to be the Achilles heel. I think Deeds is unaware of how many parents are upset over this parental notification issue. And thats why even some Democrats are voting for me. Theyre going to be surprised by how much crossover theyre going to get over this issue. And thats why Ive been pushing Sages Law so hard.

Deeds: No. Even the Appomattox school system where this allegedly occurred denies what the allegations are. I think that growing up is hard enough. Schools ought to be a place where children are nurtured and given the ability to grow and live their lives. Parents should be involved in every step of their childs life, but Im not for school systems outing kids to their parents, or anybody else.

What do you think are the most important issues that need to be addressed in Virginia schools?

Hamilton: I think safety is a huge issue. Thats why I support a mandate for school resource officers in every single school within the commonwealth of Virginia. Albemarle County removed all school resource officers in 2018. They put one back in Albemarle High School, and thats not nearly enough. If there were a mass shooter that came in, youd have to wait five or 10 minutes for the police to come in and take this person down. And so we must have the school resource officers protect our children.

Deeds: The issue that overrides everything else is funding. Weve known for years that the state was underfunding education. Underfunding education puts an incredible amount of burden on all our local governments. Weve established a subcommittee to help us figure out how to phase in funding. This year we did like $568 million in new funding for K-12 education. We need to figure a way to increase funding.

One of the biggest challenges a lot of localities have is that they cant hire teachers. Im not so sure that theres a teacher shortage. Theres a shortage of people who are willing to work for less money than they might otherwise work for. We very much in Virginia have a feeder system of teacher development. People go from low-paying localities to medium-paying localities and upper-paying localities, then work their way up to Fairfax and Arlington which pay better than anybody in the state and just across the river, in Montgomery County, Maryland, they average $10,000 a year more in compensation. We are not competing only with people next door to us; were competing with the rest of the country. If we are going to have a world-class system of education, we have to find a way to better compensate teachers, and we have to find a way to get more money from the state to localities for education.
College enrollment in Virginia rose 2% this year, despite the high cost, lingering questions about the value of a degree and the looming demographic cliff.

There are roughly 529,000 students at Virginias 60-plus colleges, up from 519,000 last year. Any increase, even a small one, is good news for schools, which face numerous challenges in enrolling more students.

Its hard to say theres bad news here, said Tod Massa, policy analytics director for the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.

But the news wasnt good for all schools. Radford and Christopher Newport continued to shrink, and concerns linger that small colleges in Virginia are in trouble.

Graduating college is generally a good thing for a community. People with college degrees make more money, are more likely to have health insurance and have greater life expectancy.

We feel very confident that postsecondary education and training is associated with positive outcomes in the workforce and in life, Tom Allison of SCHEV said.

But many are choosing to enter the workforce instead of college. Others are questioning if college is worth the value. And the cost continues to rise  an in-state student at Virginia Commonwealth University pays $16,000 for one year of tuition and fees and $14,000 for room and board.

There are also concerns about a so-called enrollment cliff, in which the number of high school graduates is expected to decline nationwide.

And yet, colleges in Virginia are growing. The total number of students exceeded the 2019 figure of 525,000, representing a recovery from the pandemic.

Some colleges that had been struggling rebounded this year. VCU ended a four-year slide by growing almost 1%. Virginia Military Institute brought in a large freshman class after welcoming in a small one last year. Longwood, which has shrunk during the past six years, grew by 2% this year. And the states community colleges, which have struggled for a decade, grew for a second straight year.

Virginias numbers mirror the national scene. Undergraduate enrollment grew 2% in the past year, the first time national enrollment has increased since the start of the pandemic, according to the National Student Clearinghouse.

But small schools in rural locations have struggled. So have colleges that offer fewer of the popular STEM, or science, technology, engineering and mathematics, programs.

Radford continued to slide and is down 37% since 2019. Mary Washington, which has contracted 22% in six years, was about flat this year. Longwood grew after generally declining during the past five years, and Christopher Newport slid 1% this year and is down 14% in the past decade.

Theres concern that while the states large schools eat up more and more students, theres no one left for the small schools. This problem could be exacerbated by the coming enrollment cliff.

As a body, we have an issue coming up, Walter Curt, a SCHEV board member, said at a meeting this week. Whether we think about it now or talk about it, its on its way. The train is on the tracks and its coming toward us.

Curt said the council has downplayed the issue for years, letting Virginia Tech and George Mason grow unabated, while others struggled. Most of the colleges that are contracting have projected growth in the future, which Curt called unrealistic.

As colleges have generally grown, most have gotten easier to get into. James Madison has an admissions rate above 80%, and George Masons is above 90%. VCU recently announced it will accept anyone with a 3.5 grade-point average.

Schools have drawn criticism for easing their acceptance rates. But theres no evidence colleges are admitting students who cant succeed once enrolled, Allison said, citing the high number of freshmen who stay for their sophomore year.

One reason schools are admitting more students, Allison said, is the Common App, which allows a high school student to apply to several colleges at once. High schoolers are routinely applying to 10 or 20 colleges now, shopping for the best financial aid package.

Thats made it harder for colleges to predict how many students will actually show up, he added, leading them to accept more students.

Because the number of high school grads is expected to drop, Virginia colleges might have to search harder outside the states borders.

SCHEVs staff is recommending some out-of-state students get a discount. Currently, the states budget language requires colleges to charge them the full cost of education, which is often two or three times higher than what in-state students pay. In-state students get a discount, because their educations are subsidized by Virginia taxpayers.

But as colleges depend more and more on students from outside Virginia, colleges might need to give them a financial incentive. SCHEV is recommending legislators change the language and let colleges give discounts to some out-of-state students.
A Marine Corps infantryman booted from the service and indicted in connection to a neo-Nazi plot to target energy facilities in the northwest U.S. pleaded guilty to a firearms charge on Tuesday, court dockets indicate.

Liam Collins, a former lance corporal stationed at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, was initially charged in 2020 with two other alleged conspirators. Within the next year, the list of defendants grew to five, including an Army National Guardsman, Joseph Maurino; and two other former Marines, Justin Hermanson and Jordan Duncan.

Collins discussed recruiting veterans into "a modern day SS" on a now-defunct neo-Nazi message board called "Iron March," stole military equipment, asked others to buy explosives, and discussed with his co-defendants plans to manufacture firearms, according to court records. He pleaded not guilty to destruction of an energy facility and other weapons-related charges.

Read Next: Jet Experienced 'Landing Gear Anomaly' on Runway, Marine Corps Says

The guilty plea was for interstate transportation of an unregistered firearm. Military.com contacted Collins' listed attorney, but did not hear back by publication. FOX8 WGHP was first to report his guilty plea.

The group of extremists that Collins belonged to was allegedly active between 2017 and 2020, according to federal indictments. In that time, Collins allegedly stole military gear, including magazines for assault-style rifles, from Camp Lejeune and delivered it to the other defendants. Meanwhile, Duncan, a onetime Marine turned defense contractor, allegedly gathered information on firearms, explosives and nerve toxins and shared it with the group.

By 2020, the group was discussing having every member purchase 50 pounds of an explosive, according to the indictments. In October 2020, a handwritten list of around a dozen locations in and around Idaho was discovered in one of the suspects' possession. That list included locations of transformers, substations and other components of the power grid for the northwest U.S.

The indictment also noted that the men discussed using a homemade blend of metal powder and metal oxide combined into a substance known as thermite, which burns at more than 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit, to destroy power transformers.

"This case is concerningly indicative of both the state of the white supremacist threat today and the systemic failures of the U.S. military to address the decades of white supremacist infiltration of its ranks," Jon Lewis, a researcher with the George Washington University Program on Extremism, told Military.com on Wednesday.

"This was a cell of violent neo-Nazis who attempted to create 'a modern-day SS' and who plotted to conduct attacks targeting the power grid," Lewis said. "Multiple defendants, including Collins, were engaged in efforts to conduct white supremacist terrorism while sworn to protect and defend our country and our Constitution."

Collins, who served for three years in the Corps before his separation, was on active duty when he made the Iron March message board posts, according to Newsweek, which first connected the Marine to his comments.

He frequently posted on Iron March and went by the moniker "Disciple" and "Niezgoda," according to the indictment.

"Everyone [in the group] is going to be required to have served in a nation's military, whether US, UK, or Poland," Collins wrote in 2016, according to the indictment. "I'll be in the USMC for 4 years while my comrades work on the groups [sic] physical formation...It will take years to gather all the experience and intelligence that we need to utilize -- but that's what makes it fun."

In 2020, a Marine Corps spokesman told Military.com when asked about Collins' separation that "Collins' premature discharge is indicative of the fact that the character of his service was incongruent with Marine Corps' expectations and standards."

Collins and his co-conspirators were not the only neo-Nazi veterans caught up by law enforcement for alleged infrastructure attacks in the last few years. In February, Brandon Russell, a former Army National Guardsman and self-described Nazi, was arrested for allegedly plotting to destroy an electrical substation in Maryland.

Russell had announced the formation of the Atomwaffen Division, a neo-Nazi group, nearly a decade ago. In 2018, he was sentenced to five years in prison for charges relating to possessing explosives.

"These were members of an accelerationist, neo-Nazi movement that is intent on committing violence and destruction in order to collapse the system and create a white ethnostate from the ashes," Lewis, the extremism researcher, said of Collins' recent guilty plea. "Years of inaction and ambivalence have led to conditions favorable for violent extremists like Collins and his co-defendants to join the military, and this case is yet another example of just how dangerous this can be."

Collins is set to be sentenced next January, following an August 2023 guilty plea as part of a deal with prosecutors, according to court records.

Two of the other veteran defendants in this case -- Hermanson and Maurino -- took plea deals in 2022 and 2023, according to court records. Neither has been sentenced yet.

Meanwhile, Duncan's case is ongoing and his lawyers moved to have charges dismissed in August, arguing that, among other issues, the charges are "unconstitutionally vague under the First and Fifth Amendments," court records show.

-- Drew F. Lawrence can be reached at drew.lawrence@military.com. Follow him on X @df_lawrence.

-- Konstantin Toropin can be reached at konstantin.toropin@military.com. Follow him on X @ktoropin.

Related: Marine Vet Who Was Allegedly Part of Neo-Nazi Group That Called for Mass Murder Arrested on Gun Charges
The man who became speaker of the House on Wednesday after three weeks of GOP infighting has a solidly conservative voting record that includes opposing both the sweeping toxic exposure bill for veterans passed last year and the Pentagon's abortion policy.

Rep. Mike Johnson, R-La., won the speakership Wednesday with every Republican vote. He was the GOP's fourth choice for speaker since Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., was ousted from the job at the beginning of October, effectively shutting down the House until a new leader was chosen.

The victory marked a rapid rise for Johnson, who joined Congress in 2017 and since 2020 has been the vice chairman of the House Republican Conference, a messaging job that made him the fifth highest-ranking Republican in the House. While he has generally kept a low profile for the last six years, he was perhaps most well-known before Wednesday for playing a leading role in Republicans' efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

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On veterans issues, last year he voted against the PACT Act, considered the biggest increase of veterans benefits in a generation that expanded benefits and health care for those exposed to toxic substances during their military service. While some top Republicans ended up supporting the version of the PACT Act that became law, more staunch conservatives continued to oppose it over the estimated $278 billion price tag.

Johnson also voted against a year-end package of smaller veterans and military family measures last year. Among other provisions, the bill mandated that states recognize service members and spouses' valid professional licenses from other states and ensured veterans won't lose GI Bill benefits if schools have to close in a future emergency like they did for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Johnson has supported major Republican-backed veterans legislation, including the 2018 Mission Act that made it easier for veterans to see doctors outside the Department of Veterans Affairs system.

He also voted for a 2017 bill intended to make it easier to fire problem employees at the VA. The VA said this year it was no longer using the authority granted by the bill because it was rendered useless by years of litigation, infuriating Republicans.

Johnson has also backed widely popular veterans bills, including voting for the Forever GI Bill in 2017 and co-sponsoring the Major Richard Star Act, a top priority this year for veterans groups that would give service members who medically retire full access to both military retirement pay and VA disability benefits.

Johnson, who was a lawyer before turning to politics, has served on the House Armed Services Committee since 2021.

He has voted for final passage for every annual defense policy bill since coming to Congress, including voting to override then-President Donald Trump's veto of the fiscal 2021 National Defense Authorization Act over its mandate to remove Confederate names from military bases.

Johnson has also supported controversial, conservative amendments to the NDAA, including this year voting to ban gender-affirming health care for transgender troops and to repeal the Pentagon policy giving troops travel reimbursements and leave for abortions.

In a letter to his colleagues released shortly before Wednesday's speaker vote, Johnson pledged to pass a House-Senate compromise version of this year's NDAA in December.

By contrast to his regular support for the NDAA, Johnson has voted against nearly every omnibus government funding bill since coming to Congress. Omnibuses combine funding for every government agency into one bill and are typically opposed by conservatives.

He voted against the stopgap spending measure Congress passed last month to prevent a government shutdown. Meanwhile, he supported the House's Pentagon and Veterans Affairs spending bills, which were both packed with GOP policy riders such as provisions to bar abortion services, transgender health care, and LGBTQ+ Pride flags at the VA.

As more Republicans have come out in opposition to Ukraine aid, Johnson has joined them. He voted in favor of amendments to the NDAA and Pentagon spending bill that would have stripped Ukraine funding from the bills and against a stand-alone bill last month to provide Ukraine $300 million.

Government funding and Ukraine aid will be among his first challenges as speaker. Current government funding expires in less than a month, while the White House has requested Congress also approve roughly $106 billion in funding for Ukraine, Israel, the Indo-Pacific and border security.

In his letter to colleagues Wednesday, Johnson said he would propose another stopgap spending measure to keep the government open past Nov. 17, when current funding expires. His plan would extend funding to either Jan. 15 or April 15, depending on what the majority of the House Republican conference supports.

Either date could risk an across-the-board 1% cut to government spending, including at the Pentagon and the VA. Under the deal Congress approved earlier this year to stave off a U.S. debt default, the government must start planning for a 1% spending cut if full-year appropriations bills aren't passed by Jan. 1. The cuts wouldn't actually take effect until April 30.

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on X @reporterkheel.

Related: 'Time of Uncertainty': House Speaker Fiasco Sparks Concerns over Annual Defense Bill, Ukraine Aid
SEOUL, South Korea  South Korea, the U.S. and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent U.S. claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries' resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the U.S. and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties. Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The U.S., South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear program in exchange for its munitions supply.

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine. After returning to Moscow, Lavrov dismissed the U.S. accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone."

I dont comment on rumors, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said that North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea)," the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the U.S. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites. Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Korea's Unification Ministry said Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the North's main launch facility.

In response to North Korea's growing nuclear capability, the U.S. and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training. This years maritime drill, which involves live-firing exercises, drew U.S. military helicopters and patrol aircraft as well, according to a navy statement.

North Korea didnt immediately comment on the drill. But it has previously slammed U.S-South Korean exercises as invasion rehearsals and responded with missile tests.
A truce has been called in the beaver-versus-Corvallis city staff showdown at Bruce Starker Arts Park and Natural Area.

The rodents had built several dams along the South Branch of Dunawi Creek, but the primary dam was causing water to pool behind the beaver dam at levels high enough to flow into the nearby parking lot.

To mitigate the flooding, city park officials' first approach was to deconstruct the dam, only for it to be replaced by a new dam.

The battle was on.

With staff expressing a desire to live in harmony with the beavers, watchers said the back-and-forth demolition and reconstruction repeated about six times within a span of four weeks.

Now, in partnership with various organizations, park officials have installed a pond leveler which fulfills their promise to live side-by-side with the beavers while keeping their work intact.

"There's all these stormwater managers, you know, all across the country and here in the Pacific Northwest that have realized that instead of breaking down the dams and allowing conveyance, the beavers are actually helping us catch a lot of pollutants," said Ted Hart, Corvallis Public Works' stormwater program coordinator.

"And so, like Gresham, like city of Seattle, like so many other cities have realized, this is a really great opportunity to see Corvallis try that out. So that's kind of what we're doing here," Hart said.

Simple and efficient

The pond leveler is a 30- to 40-feet-long pipe which begins a few meters behind the primary beaver dam. Its entry point is protected by a metal cage to prevent large animals and debris from getting through. It ends slightly through a circular notch carved out of the dam itself.

The pipe has been nicked along the top to let out air so that it doesn't float as much. A flap covers the pipe at the end where it funnels out through the beaver dam but not completely. Water trickles out of it.

Blaine Schoolfield, project manager at the Marys River Watershed Council, said this is because the water pressure is currently low.

This is not the first time park officials are installing this kind of device along the Dunawi Creek, but this current infrastructure is simple enough that it gets the job done.

It is also adaptable.

While future flooding of the parking lot is not completely eliminated, especially when there is significant rainfall, Schoolfield said the leveler's elevation can be lowered to adjust the flow of water.

"So if people see flooding, that doesn't mean it's a failure. It just means we lower it a little bit, readjust," Schoolfield said.

Beavers know best

Beavers began returning to the park, according to Parks Division Supervisor America McMillin, after a natural area was restored in the mid-2000s, part of revamping efforts.

As of June, a survey showed the beavers  it is unclear how many they are  had constructed 15 dams and two beaver lodges in the area. The lodges are where they rest, eat and stay safe when they're not actively working on a construction.

The beavers' work has its own impacts, both positive and sometimes what some may view as negative. It can sometimes lead to the loss of other natural life, like the trees they burrow into for building materials.

On the whole, they are a net positive, said Nina Dominici, education and outreach coordinator at Marys River Watershed Council.

Beavers are native wildlife that have existed in harmony with native landowners like the Kalapuya people and offer a ton of ecological benefits, she said.

"They do a lot of things, like slow down water, trap sediments," Dominici said.

"They've been shown to be very good at trapping pollutants in the sediments, which can help fish. There's a greater diversity of wildlife where they live versus where they don't live.

"People are realizing in the drought-stricken West how much they're helping, like retain water on the landscape and helping with mitigating climate, drought issues," she said.

Beavers even have an answer for the potent objections of tree huggers. The varieties from which they obtain their construction materials tend to be trees like willow and ash, many of which will resprout, McMillin said. In the event that they don't, the dead trees become habitat for birds, insects, raccoons and other kinds of wildlife.

"So, it's just changing the function of that tree to another function," McMillin said.

Dave Eckert, water action team leader at the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, said the presence of beavers could also serve as fire inhibitors because their activities form wetlands.

"That's something that, to me is overwhelmingly good," Eckert said.

Already, it is evident that the primary beaver dam near the parking lot is trapping what Hart called total suspended solids.

"Stormwater is basically a big cocktail," Hart said. "It's literally over 1,000 different chemicals that come off the road coming from everywhere."

These include sediments from construction sites, components from brakes, car oil and mercury deposits from big fossil fuel plants, among many others, he said.

Collaborative effort

The installation of the pond leveler was the result of a highly collaborative effort between the city, Benton County and Marys River Watershed Council.

The Western Beavers Cooperative, a grassroots-led campaign of volunteers working to support natural beaver recovery on eastern Oregon landscapes, led the installation pro bono.

Experts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife as well as the Mid-Willamette Beaver Partnership, a collaboration of many government agencies and university researchers, provided installation assistance and aided in the purchase of some materials.

Perceptions of what kinds of relationship is possible between beavers and humans can be polarizing. State laws consider beavers predators and allow for them to be trapped, shot or killed.

But Schoolfield urged residents to reach out to Marys River Watershed Council or Benton County's Agriculture and Wildlife Protection Program when they encounter problem beavers.

"I mean, there's all sorts of different things we can do besides trapping them out," Schoolfield said.

Related stories:
Tin  a super metal

The applications of tin are many and varied. Food cans are coated with it, it is a component of important alloys, and it serves as corrosion protection for other metals. Construction and transportation materials also often contain tin, as do ceramics, glass and sensors. Tin soldiers, once often represented in children s rooms, are no longer made of tin because it would be too expensive. Today, about 35 percent of tin is used for solders. About 30 percent goes into the production of tinplate and the rest is processed in the chemical industry. Even superconducting magnets contain the metal. Tin is so significant because it is used for solder, and the electronics sector uses it to connect components. Around 50 percent of the tin processed in Germany is found in solder.

China produces the most tin, other important countries of origin are Indonesia, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil and Myanmar. China is also the largest consumer of tin, followed by the USA, Japan, Germany, the rest of Europe and Korea. And reserves of tin don t seem to last forever. Some experts call tin the commodity with the lowest reserves. Whether the reserves will last another eight or 16 years or even longer, tin is in any case an interesting raw material for investors due to its use, because a rising price is forecast for the metal due to the increasing demand for tin.

One tin company, namely First Tin  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/first-tin-ltd/  is in the tin business in the Ore Mountains in Germany and in Australia.

Tin One  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/tinone-resources-inc/  also has a high-quality portfolio of projects (tin, tungsten and lithium) in the Tier 1 mining regions of Tasmania and New South Wales, Australia.

Current corporate information and press releases from First Tin (https://www.resource-capital.ch/en/companies/first-tin-plc/ ).

In accordance with 34 WpHG I would like to point out that partners, authors and employees may hold shares in the respective companies addressed and thus a possible conflict of interest exists. No guarantee for the translation into English. Only the German version of this news is valid.

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DETROIT  An elusive Egyptian locust was intercepted by border agents during a container inspection at a railyard last month in Detroit, officials said.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists found the invasive insect on Sept. 29 while examining inbound cargo from Italy, according to a news release from the agency. The container was quarantined and fumigated before the cargo was allowed to enter U.S. commerce.

This locust is a voracious leaf feeder, CBP said. It poses a threat to several crops found in Michigan, including grapevines and various vegetable plants.

While this species is commonly found in Europe, this is believed to be only the third time the Port of Detroit has encountered it, the agency said.

This interception demonstrates the importance of protecting our food supply and the challenging mission of CBP agriculture specialist at our ports of entry, said John Nowak, acting port director for the Port of Detroit.

International cargo is routinely examined for potential threats to people, agriculture and natural resources, the agency said. On a typical day during 2022, border agents found 240 pests and 2,677 items for quarantine at U.S. ports of entry.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is raising awareness after nearly a thousand birds, including warblers migrating through Michigan, died after crashing into a building in Chicago.

The incident occurred earlier this month when the migratory songbirds on their way to Central America for the winter crashed into a convention center along Lake Michigan.

And while the DNR says collision events that large are rare, bird collisions are not. In fact, they are a leading cause of bird mortality, with up to a billion such deaths yearly in the U.S. alone.

And Michigan is at the center since it lies at the intersection of the Mississippi River and Atlantic flyways, migration routes that bring over 350 bird species through the state each year, with fall migration peaking in October.

Hundreds of palm warblers and yellow-rumped warblers, which can also be found traveling through Michigan, were impacted in the collision event in Chicago. And certain species, known as super-colliders, are more likely to crash into buildings.

Some of those species are headed to Michigan in the next few weeks, including American woodcocks and white-throated sparrows.

Artificial light at night and reflective surfaces are the main causes of bird deaths, the DNR said, which means bird collisions are preventable.

A 2021 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America discovered that by turning off half the lights in Chicago during bird migration, 60 percent fewer birds would die.

As a result, the DNR is encouraging Michigan residents to follow a few key steps for the next few weeks when it comes to light and glass.

You can help by reducing the amount and intensity of light coming from your home, changing the direction of the light by turning them downward and by shortening the amount of time lights are on.

When it comes to glass, residents can help by creating patterns on the outer surface like stripes or dots, making the glass opaque, putting physical barriers on the glass like screens or netting, closing blinds and curtains, moving plants away from windows and placing bird feeders directly onto windows.

If youre interested in learning more about Michigans birds, follow MI Birds, an outreach and engagement program presented by Audubon Great Lakes in partnership with Michigan DNR. You can also follow on social media or visit https://gl.audubon.org/mibirds.
The Oregon Department of Education officially released its annual batch of data on school district graduation and attendance rates, among a variety of education measures, on Thursday, Oct. 26.

In a nutshell: There's a slight uptick in the rate of ninth graders on track to graduate during the last school year, but there's also a concerning drop in students regularly attending school across Oregon.

In the mid-Willamette Valley, some school districts reported even more troubling attendance numbers.

One district in the region, however, was highlighted by ODE for boosting its on-track to graduate rate.

A Place to Sleep - episode 4: Sweet Home In Sweet Home, you'll find the region's only designated sleeping place for folks actively self-medicating with alcohol and narcotics.

Statewide results

The average statewide on-track to graduate rate  the rate of students who have completed at least one-quarter of their required credits by the end of ninth grade  was about 84% for the 2022-23 school year.

That's up less than 1% from the previous school year, though ODE officials emphasized the number represented around 700 more students who were on track to graduate than in the previous year.

The attendance rate statewide, however, proved more unimpressive and concerning.

Only around 62% of Oregon students regularly attended school during the last school year. That's the number of students who came to school more than 90% of the days they were enrolled.

That roughly calculates to about 38% of students missing more than 16 days of classes, according to ODE's Accountability and Reporting Director Jon Weins.

The attendance rate fell 2% from the previous school year, and officials at ODE said those declines were more pronounced for lower grades.

In a statement released in advance with the data  Mid-Valley Media, like other news outlets received a copy before the official release  ODE Director Charlene Williams noted the lackluster attendance numbers, saying she wasn't satisfied with the results.

"I took this role to make a difference. We need to see what the data is telling us and be responsive to that," she said in a statement.

She reiterated that sentiment to reporters during a webinar on Tuesday, Oct. 24, and highlighted a state initiative called Every Day Matters, an ODE-led group working to identify the root causes of chronic absenteeism by connecting with students, parents and administrators.

As for an explanation for the drop in attendance, Williams pointed to the lingering impacts of COVID-19.

The current statewide attendance rate remains significantly below pre-2020 levels, and Williams said districts have pointed to the rollback of financial supports  rolled out during the height of the pandemic  as placing additional pressure on families and their students who are still struggling with housing and food security.

Mid-valley schools

Attendance levels across the mid-Willamette Valley dropped during the 2022-23 school year. For some school districts, attendance rates fell below the state average.

Greater Albany Public Schools reported a regular attendance level of 57%, a 5% drop from the previous year.

Additionally, 75% of the district's ninth graders were on track to graduate, according to ODE data which. While below the state average, this is a 1% increase from the previous school year.

GAPS Superintendent Andy Gardner said the district, in partnership with the Linn-Benton Education Service District and other regional schools, is working on closely tracking freshmen and their credit progress.

"We definitely want to move toward the state average and beyond it," he said.

In a statement, Gardner touted improvements in the number of students reaching English Language Arts benchmarks, with around 47% of middle schoolers meeting ELA standards in the 2022-23 school year  an increase from 38%. For high school students, the jump was from 41% to 51%.

Attendance, however, is an issue GAPS is also working to address, Gardner said.

The Corvallis School District posted a slightly better regular attendance rate of 60%, still below the state average, and a 5% decrease from the district's previous school year.

And while 85% of the district's ninth graders were on track to graduate, beating the state average, that number represents a 1% decrease from the previous school year, according to ODE data.

Corvallis Superintendent Ryan Noss said, however, he expected the attendance and on-track rates to grow as the district continues to recover from the pandemic.

"I think this is one more artifact from the times students were away from our schools," he said.

Corvallis' neighboring Philomath School District reported a regular attendance rate of 63%, beating the state average but representing 6% drop from the previous school year. Eighty-five percent of Philomath's ninth graders were on track to graduate.

In East Linn County, the Lebanon and Sweet Home school districts both reported 3% decreases in regular attendance, with rates of 59% and 58% respectively.

However, the Lebanon Community School District reported 86% of its ninth graders were on track to graduate, a 4% increase.

In fact, Lebanon was one four districts ODE officials consulted with across the state  along with Medford, South Umpqua and Springfield  to identify factors that explain how some districts boosted on-track graduation rates for their high school freshmen.

Dan Farley, assistant superintendent for ODE's research and data office, said those districts pointed to, among other factors, having so-called "student success teams" which include administrators, counselors and teachers, who frequently reviewed grade data to readily identify students in need of extra support.

Those districts also touted family and cultural liaisons  staff that could connect with families about a student's progress  and pointed to after-school and summer programs offering students additional opportunities to learn.

Farley cautioned that it's difficult to isolate a specific reason behind the rate increases.

"Because, when you're dealing with systems, all the indicators are interacting, and it's impossible to kind of separate and parse them out," he told reporters at the Oct. 24 webinar.

The "At-A-Glance" school and district profile data ODE compiled for the 2022-23 school year also includes information on class sizes, student and staff demographics, college bound rates and teacher retention.

They can be viewed on the ODE's At-A-Glance webpage.
DETROIT  A Michigan woman and her boyfriend are charged with murder and torture related to the death of her 7-year-old son, authorities announced.

Alisha Renee Hollamon, 23, and Avion Traylor, 21, both of Detroit, are both charged with felony murder, first-degree child abuse and torture, the Wayne County Prosecutors Office said in a news release.

Just after midnight on Sunday, Oct. 22, Detroit Police officers were dispatched to a residence in the 3700 block of Hurlbut Street for reports of child abuse. Upon arrival, they found the victim suffering from apparent scars and abrasions across his face, back and chest. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

It is alleged that the defendants physically abused the victim, resulting in fatal injuries.

Holloman and Traylor were arraigned Wednesday in 36th District Court before Magistrate William Burton. Bond was denied and they were both remanded to jail. They are due back in court on Wednesday, Nov. 8, before Judge Kenneth King.
AUBURN HILLS, MI  An 18-year-old woman is dead after a single-vehicle rollover crash on I-75 in southeast Michigan, police said.

At 6:01 p.m. on Wednesday, personnel from the Auburn Hills police and fire departments were dispatched to the crash on southbound I-75 near Joslyn Road. A 2004 Ford Escape driven by a 27-year-old woman from Flint left the roadway, entered the grassy median and rolled over.

The 18-year-old passenger was ejected during the crash, causing fatal injuries. She was transported to a hospital where she was pronounced dead. The driver, a 27-year-old female passenger and a 19-year-old male passenger were also transported to a hospital. The driver and 27-year-old female passenger were treated and released. The male passenger is expected to be released.

The crash is under investigation. It is unknown whether alcohol or drug use were factors.

Anyone who witnessed this crash is asked to contact the Auburn Hills Police Department at 248-370-9460.
WASHTENAW COUNTY, MI - A Washtenaw County landfill under scrutiny from environmental regulators for years faces a new violation after numerous odor complaints from residents in early October, according to a notice issued to the landfill on Oct. 10.

During the summer, the Arbor Hills landfill in Salem Township started using a new area for waste. In the first three months, The Conservancy Initiative, a citizens group involved in monitoring the landfill, received hundreds odor complaints, according to its tracking page. Property owners downwind submitted more than 200 in the first 22 days of October, the group said.

In particular, on Oct. 5 and Oct. 6 more than 60 complaints rolled in and were forwarded to Arbor Hills management and the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, triggering inspections and the violation, according to David Drinan, a resident with the Conservancy Initiative.

The excess emissions and odors were predictable, the group wrote on its website, saying it had anticipated the new landfill cell could be problematic.

A spokesperson for Green for Life Environmental, Inc., owners of the landfill, didnt respond to emailed questions for comment. In a response to the EGLE violation dated Oct. 13, the company outlined nearly a month of efforts to tamp down the smells.

The combined efforts of all the remedial construction conducted by the Arbor Hills staff appears to have eliminated the odor source. As always, Arbor Hills will continue to be diligent and response to future odor concerns that may arise, the response reads.

The concerns are nothing new at the landfill, where odor complaints dating back more than five years triggered investigations from state and federal environmental regulators, a lawsuit from Michigans attorney general against its former owner and an eventual settlement with GFL requiring $2.3 million in fines and environmental projects meant to stem issues at the landfill.

Read more: Lawmakers credit residents taking a stand for $2.3M settlement with Washtenaw County landfill

Under the consent judgement with the state, the notice about the odor violations triggers requirements that the landfill immediately investigate the cause and provide a plan to address it, according to the Oct. 10 violation notice.

Arbor Hills first found odors coming from the newly-operational Cell 6A at the landfill in early September, according to the companys response to EGLE. It first placed a layer of clay on a part of the area near the cell, but landfill staff recognized the landfill gas odors were still escaping, the letter states.

The landfill also installed gas collection piping before deciding on Sept. 20 a fix would require a large-scale project to complete, according to the letter.

The landfill put a temporary gas collection system in place, EGLE spokesperson Jill Greenberg said in an email. It is scheduled to replace that temporary system with a permanent one by Jan. 18, 2024, she said.

EGLE intends to continue monitoring Arbor Hills landfill for nuisance odors, conducting odor inspections to identify nuisance conditions and ensuring Arbor Hills landfill implements the requirements of the consent judgement, Greenberg said.

The smells havent been the only trace of the landfill to catch residents attention in recent weeks.

People in subdivisions near Northville east of the landfill have noted a pulsating red and orange glow under certain weather conditions at night, according to Drinan and The Conservancy Initiative.

A photo taken by a resident shows the sky from the Northville Ridge subdivision near the Arbor Hills landfill at night on Oct. 19, 2023.Provided by Rajesh Mummineni

The glow is created by a flare installed as part of the renewable natural gas plant being constructed at the landfill, which collects landfill gas, purifies it and puts it in a pipeline system, Greenberg said. Once the plant is fully operational, the flare is intended to operate mainly when the it is undergoing maintenance, she said.

The plant is still refining the process of removing impurities and is not yet producing pipeline quality gas, she said, resulting in the flare being used for gas disposal at the current intensity. The volume of gas being processed that way and the current flame intensity is expected to decrease significantly as the start-up issues are resolved, Greenberg said.

Photos taken by a resident show a glow in the sky officials say comes from a flare at the renewable natural gas plant at the Arbor Hills landfill in Salem Township.Provided by David Horan

It may also appear more intense during low, overcast conditions, she said.

In the meantime, The Conservancy Initiative, which formed in 2015 to oppose expansion of the landfill, is calling on state environmental regulators for strict enforcement when it comes to odors at the landfill.

Since Cell 6 began operation in July, the wind direction, not any action taken by GFL, is the most important variable to predict noxious odors. If the wind blows towards Northville Township, expect excess emissions and noxious odors in the Northville Township neighborhoods, the group said in a post on its website analyzing recent odor complaints.

The recent enforcement actions against the Arbor Hills Landfill have not improved the landfills impact on the community, the group said.

More from The Ann Arbor News:

Toxic forever chemicals found in stream near Washtenaw County landfill by citizen group

New household toxics disposal site opening at Washtenaw County landfill

10 ways University of Michigans campus could transform in 25 years

After shutdown, new court order gives Ann Arbor-area gravel mine path to resume operating
ANN ARBOR, MI - The University of Michigan and Oregon State University are tight like the grip of a boa constrictor in at least in one field,

A donation of 30,000 snake specimens from Oregon State to the University of Michigan Museum of Zoology makes the Ann Arbor university the site of the worlds largest snake collection, museum curators said.

The donation, made in September, is the continuation of a long partnership between the Pacific Northwest and Midwest universities, as the collection comes from a retired Oregon State professor and University of Michigan alum.

Professor Stevan Arnold, whose University of Michigan doctorate in 1972 leaned on the zoology museums collection, and Lynne Houcks life work is in the collection donated to the Research Museums Center, 3600 Varsity Dr. in Ann Arbor.

Arnold thought his alma mater would be the ideal landing spot for his preserved snakes due to the extensiveness of the facility, which now houses more than 70,000 snake specimens and about a half million amphibian samples overall, according to Greg Schneider, research collections manager for the zoology museum.

The University of Michigan has invested very, very heavily in their natural history collections and built this wonderful state-of-the-art facility to house them, Schnedier said. We have probably the finest facility for for storing this kind of a collection.

The museum is also the second largest amphibian collection next to the Smithsonian Museum, Schneider said. Arnolds donation also contained tens of thousands of specimens outside of snakes, including woodland and dusky salamanders, curators said.

Arnold is not the universitys only connection to Oregon State. Ronald Nussbaum earned his doctorate from the Pacific Northwest university in 1972 and was the University of Michigan zoology museums curator for nearly 50 years.

We have a very, very big collection from the Pacific Northwest because of Ronald Nussbaum, Schneider said.

The two universities have a great scientific partnership, said Oregon State entomologist David Maddison, who helped coordinate the donation.

This will be a boost for biodiversity studies and for ecology more generally, Maddison said.

The tens of thousands of specimens donated by Arnold are preserved in ethanol-filled glass jars on rows upon rows of storage inside museum center. The jars are filled with euthanized animals, most of them either garter or water snakes, curators said.

There are also 30,000 frozen tissue samples in Arnolds donation, curators said. The specimens can help researchers from the university and around the world study how traits evolve in multiple snake species, Schneider said.

This is what evolutionary biologists think, that natural selection is working -- its not fixed, its always fluid, Schneider said, adding the research can help scientists predict how a species may evolve during the next 10, 20, 50 or 100 years.

Other applications are in molecular genetics and medicine, Schneider said.

For Schneider, his work has a direct line to the research roots of University of Michigan with former President Alexander Ruthven. The UM president from 1929-51 studied garter snakes and was a curator and director of the zoology museum prior to leading the university, Schneider said.

While he was president, he was still conducting research on garter snakes and going on expeditions out in the field, Schneider said.

One of the samples in the snake collection is actually named after Ruthven, Schneider said. The samples come from all over the country, from Idaho to Iowa, as well as from countries such as Ecuador to the Seychelles.

The honor of having the largest collection in the world is nice, but the priority is providing quality materials for future research, he said.

The collection is not simply about having every type of snake, he said. Our job here is to preserve and voucher research materials.

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.

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FLINT, MI  Flint Community Schools will close four schools over a three-year period beginning in the 2024-25 academic year.

Beginning with Pierce Elementary in the first year, the plan is to shut down one building in the first year, two in the next and a fourth in the third year.
HUDSONVILLE, MI -- Three West Michigan missionaries working to better lives in an impoverished African country died in a vehicle crash in Kenya on Wednesday, Oct. 25.

The three workers all from the greater Grand Rapids area -- Dave and Joy Mueller, both 61 and nurse practitioner Julie Holman, 33 -- were headed to one of several centers established in Kenya by a Hudsonville-based group called Kenya Hope.

The crash involved a Toyota SUV carrying the missionaries and a semi-truck.

Eric Hoogstra, board chairman of Kenya Hope, said its his understanding the truck and SUV were in a head-on collision, apparently after the truck pulled out from a location.

In a Facebook post, officials with Kenya Hope said Dave and Joy Mueller had worked for the organization the last 13 years providing freshwater wells, education, widow training, and food relief to a number of communities within the Nairobi and Narok areas of Kenya.

Julie Holman had recently passed her board certification to become a nurse practitioner and was helping in Kenya to evaluate medical facilities and provide medical vaccines.

Dave and Joy will be remembered as missionaries who worked both faithfully and tirelessly to help others who were in need and spread the gospel of Christ. While they will be greatly missed by our organization, I know they have a place in heaven for a life well-served Hoogstra said in a written statement.

Holman is the daughter of the U.S. director for Kenya Hope.

Hoogstra, in a Thursday interview with MLive, described the Muellers as a very unique couple with many skills.

Dave was able to fix anything, he said. They literally transformed our mission over the last 13 years to what it is today.

Hoogstra said Dave Mueller was instrumental in establishing the well program to bring water to people. His wife started a program to teach widows skills they need to get a job.

Theyve done incredible work with almost nothing, he said.

In Kenya, the Muellers help feed 2,500 kids for five cents a day.

He said Holman was just getting started as a nurse practitioner but seemed to have a heart for mission work.

She was in Kenya to kind of evaluate our clinics and how they were staffed, Hoogstra said.

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More from MLive
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  After 14 hours of a termination hearing in Ottawa County over two days, the board of commissioners is set to vote on Monday whether to fire Administrative Health Officer Adeline Hambley.

Hambley is defending against charges by county Board Chair Joe Moss that she is incompetent and has engaged in misconduct and neglect of duty.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  After approximately 14 hours of testimony and deliberation over the past two days, Ottawa County commissioners decided to wait until Monday to vote on whether to fire Administrative Health Officer Adeline Hambley.

A termination hearing was held Tuesday, Oct. 24 and Wednesday, Oct. 25, to determine if Hambley should be fired due to her actions during the budget planning process in August and September.

Board Chair Joe Moss accused Hambley of being incompetent, saying she has engaged in misconduct and neglect of duty, particularly when she sent out a press release warning county residents that proposed budget cuts to the health departments budget could result in the shuttering of the department.

During the Wednesday hearing, several members of the public in attendance supporting Hambley wore lanyards with signs calling the proceeding a kangaroo court. Eleven people spoke during a public comment period in favor of Hambley keeping her job, while two said she should be fired.

In August, Moss and Gibbs requested Hambley submit a new version of the health departments budget with a roughly 60% cut to general fund contributions. Hambley said there was no possible way to cut the budget that much while still meeting state-mandated program requirements.

Hambley, who testified on her own behalf Wednesday afternoon, said she was warning the public of some major ramifications if the proposed budget was approved when she sent out the late August press release.

RELATED: Health officer sending press release to public was highly inappropriate, John Gibbs testifies

I would argue that trying to do everything I can to prevent the state intervening, thats the actual opposite of political purposes, she said. My responsibility is to the county and the community, to provide mandated, quality public health and prevent disease in the community.

Hambley said she sent out the controversial press release after her requests for information about changes to the budget went unanswered and she was not invited to any in-person meetings or phone calls with county administrator John Gibbs.

Gibbs, who testified Wednesday morning, argued Hambley was involved in the budget process via emails.

There were spreadsheets sent and cuts requested, none of them I was copied in on, Hambley testified. Thats very disingenuous to say I was involved in this process.

RELATED: Testimony: Ottawa County health directors concerns about budget cuts were real

Hambleys attorney, Sarah Riley Howard, said the far-right majority on the county board, made up of conservative Republicans in a group called Ottawa Impact, has been trying to fire Hambley since their first meeting in January.

At that first meeting on Jan. 3, commissioners attempted to replace Hambley with Nate Kelly, a Hudsonville resident who works as a safety manager at an area HVAC company. Kelly has been vocal about his opposition to COVID vaccines, masking and social distancing.

Howard said this termination hearing is just the board chairs latest move to get rid of Hambley and that it would be a grave miscarriage of justice if she is fired.

Its hard to understand why my clients participation (in the budget process) is being challenged, except that theres an ulterior motive to replace her, Howard said. Theres communication after communication in public about the intent to appoint Nate Kelly. Theres been an intent since before Jan. 3... and various attempted mechanisms since.

My client would have been derelict in her duties if she hadnt reported her concerns and would have been derelict if she didnt tell the public.

After asking a handful of questions and discussing the termination hearing amongst themselves, Ottawa County commissioners voted to wait until Monday, Oct. 30, to vote on whether to fire Hambley.

The hearing was supposed to conclude Wednesday, but some commissioners said they wanted more time to deliberate and consider testimony.

Commissioners will return to the Ottawa County Fillmore Street complex at 8 a.m. Monday to determine Hambleys employment status. There will be an opportunity for more public comment at that meeting, but not until after the vote takes place.

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More from MLive:

Over 3K signatures submitted in quest to recall Ottawa Impact county commissioner

After 15 years, dream of renovated Lyon Square in Grand Rapids set to come true

Option to buy lakefront lots for Windward Pointe park approved by Muskegon commission
LOWELL, MI -- A 4-year-old boy died and four others were injured in an early morning house fire just north of Lowell, police said.

Kent County sheriffs deputies, in updating details about the fire, said the 4-year-old was pulled out of the house by firefighters but did not survive.

His father, a 27-year-old man, was burned in the fire. He was last known to be in critical condition at a hospital.

The fire was reported about 12:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 26 at a house in the 700 block of Flat River Drive SE.

A caller to 911 told dispatchers that her boyfriend and a child were still in the house.

The first arriving firefighters discovered the boyfriend had made it out of the house but was critically injured. A firefighter immediately went into the home to look for the boy.

That firefighter became disoriented because of heavy fire and smoke conditions, but other firefighters soon arrived and helped to locate the boy.

Deputies said a firefighter suffered minor burns as they worked to get the boy out of the house.

Three other occupants of the house were injured, police said. They include a 27-year-old female, a 64-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman. They were taken to an area hospital for smoke inhalation and later released.

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire. Investigators with the state police, Kent County Sheriffs Department and Lowell Area Fire Department are working jointly in the effort.
GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A controversial request by Corewell Health to demolish five buildings next to its planned $98 million office complex in the Monroe North neighborhood and replace them with surface parking lots was tabled by the Grand Rapids Planning Commission Thursday.

Commissioners  with the exception of one member, Susan Shannon  took issue with what they described as a disappointing attempt at neighborhood and community outreach. They noted that only one group, the Monroe North Business Association, appeared to have been consulted about the plan.

Commissioners, as well as several residents during public comment, also spoke about the importance of avoiding the construction of new surface parking lots. Surface parking lots, they said, dont represent the best use of land in an urban environment, and go against goals of promoting alternative modes of transportation such as biking and bussing.

Its not often that we get 60 letters of opposition of something, said Commissioner Adrienne Wallace. So that tells me that there is a disconnect in the communication with the public.

Corewell came before the planning commission Thursday to request a special land use permit to demolish five aging, industrial buildings near its office complex, Corewell Health Place, which is being built at 648 Monroe Ave. NW. The complex is expected to open in summer 2024.

The buildings Corewell wants to demolish are: 648 Bond Ave. NW, 647 Ottawa Ave. NW, 637 Ottawa Ave. NW, 700 Ottawa Ave. NW and 711 Ionia Ave. NW.

In their place, four surface parking lots containing 320 spaces would be built.

Corewell says the parking is needed to replace the same number of parking spaces that would be lost as development continues at the site. The health system wants to develop three neighboring properties, now used for parking, with market rate housing and housing for its graduate medical education program.

Our parking demand study, based on data and analytics by our experts, clearly demonstrates what we anticipate our parking demand to be based on a hybrid workplace strategy with a large event center, said Alan Kranzo, senior director of real estate strategy at Corewell Health. I just want to emphasize that weve tried to create flexibility in the plan, and it is our overall intent not to overbuild.

Officials with Corewell, following the meeting, did not take questions about the companys next steps.

The construction of new surface parking lots in downtown Grand Rapids has come under scrutiny in recent years. With a shortage of vacant land downtown and a push to add more housing, officials say surface parking lots often arent the best way to use land. In 2017, the city considered changing its zoning code to ban new surface parking lots downtown but opted against doing so.

Corewell Healths new office complex is being built to consolidate the health systems administrative operations in the Grand Rapids region at one central campus.

It represents a big project in the citys Monroe North neighborhood, and is anticipated to bring 1,500 workers and new activity to the area.

The neighborhood has seen significant development in recent years with new apartments and a seven-story, 250-room Embassy Suites by Hilton hotel. Corewells presence in the area will continue the shift from the areas industrial roots to a more modern and amenity-rich neighborhood.

Once completed, Corewells new campus will include a new 8-story office tower connected to the adjacent Brass Works building, which has been purchased by Corewell and renovated and modernized. There will also be an event center where up to 500 employees can gather for education and training.

Corewells complex would have two parking garages containing 680 spaces and 215 surface parking spots, according to a 2021 memo from the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority.

Shannon, the former economic development director for the city who now sits on the planning commission, voted against the motion to table Corewells request.

Speaking during the meeting, she said was pleased Corewell chose to build its new campus in downtown Grand Rapids as opposed to the suburbs, and that she was confident the surface parking lots would one day be developed as activity in the neighborhood grows.

I see this as a progression, Shannon said. I dont see it as these are going to be surface parking lots forever.

However, planning commissioner Laurel Joseph  who described Corewells request as extreme  countered Shannons point, saying, they could be if we approve this.

She added that Corewell has used public transportation to bus its employees to work from other places when buildings were under construction. So I dont think its unreasonable for us to ask them to investigate those options before demolishing four blocks of a neighborhood, Joseph said.

In addition to at least sixty letters of opposition, seven residents spoke during public comment and asked that Corewells request either be denied or tabled for more neighborhood engagement.

Kristina Colby, executive director of Neighbors of Belknap Lookout, a neighborhood association that encompasses the stretch of the city where Corewells project is located, said that neither she nor her board members received outreach from Corewell.

As Grand Rapids continues to grow, its essential that developers engage with the residents. We want developments that are considerative and supported by the community, she said.

When we think about the growth that we want for the city of Grand Rapids, the Monroe North business district and the Belknap Lookout neighborhood, we want vibrant and walkable and connected and livable. And do you think that surface level parking lots provide that? I dont.

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JACKSON, MI - An attorney who will handle an investigation into allegations of racism and harassment at Jackson College was selected by trustees Wednesday night.

A motion to enlist attorney Leigh Schultz to handle the investigation passed unanimously during an Oct. 25 meeting of the Jackson College Board of Trustees.

Schultz is a member of Miller Johnson law firm, based out of the firms Kalamazoo office. Her practice is focused on employment and labor cases.

Other lawyers who were up for consideration Wednesday were Lisa Snel from the Thrun law firm and Bill Thacker from Dickinson Wright. The list of potential attorneys was compiled by Bill Abbott - a lawyer who works on behalf of the college board.

The decision to seek an independent investigator to look into the issue was approved during an Oct. 19 special meeting.

Related: Jackson College board approves independent investigation into racism, harassment complaints

Board vice chair Sheila Patterson had some concern about using Thrun to handle the investigation. Though Thrun has a long history of handling cases dealing with Michigans educational institutions, Patterson said some people have come forward to her expressing apprehension about using a firm thats so ingrained into higher educational culture.

Our institution does not trust Thrun, for a multitude of reasons, Patterson said, adding that she holds no opinion on the firm, positive or negative. A lot of people have said that they just feel (Thrun) is too integrated in (the college) and theres too many personal relationships.

Trustee Matthew Heins agreed that contracting Thrun could potentially draw ire from people who dont trust the firm.

Perception is reality, and I dont want to add to any controversy -- not to pass any judgement on the quality of (Thruns) service, Heins said.

The next step in the process will be for the board to contact Schultz to set up a plan for how to move forward with the investigation.

During the public comment of the meeting, college employee Sandy DiCesare expressed her appreciation for the staff and students who have come forward with their concerns during past meetings -- and her disappointment in the board due to what she sees as a lack of progress in the investigation.

It seems that students and employees can not thrive in our corrupted environment, DiCesare said. Everyone is so tired of it -- people that speak up are trying to save this institution. Will the college ever recover from what happened here? I am very doubtful about that.

NaTiyah Jones-Montgomery -- a 19-year-old student who has spoken at every board meeting since the issues of racism and harassment were brought forward -- said the investigation has been too quiet so far and has moved along too slowly.

Either youre on the side of the oppressed or youre on the side of the oppressor, Jones-Montgomery said. I understand that you guys have a process, but you guys really need to earn our trust back.

The board will meet again on Monday, Oct. 30 to review applications received for candidates looking to replace trustee Sam Barnes. After 15 years in the board, Barnes resigned from his position to accept the president and CEO positions at Middough Inc. -- a Cleveland, Ohio-based construction engineering company.

Related: It kills me to have to leave. Longtime trustee stepping down from Jackson College board

The board will meet on Nov. 13 to discuss the findings of an internal report submitted by Jackson College President Daniel Phelan. The board will meet in a closed session Nov. 17 to discuss elements of Phelans report that are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

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More from The Jackson Citizen Patriot:

Michigan forest being transformed into illuminated Christmas walkthrough

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Celebrate Halloween by cleaning up a historic Jackson cemetery

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HICKORY CORNERS, MI  Did you ever wonder what it would be like to drive a Ford Model T?

The Gilmore Car Museum is offering a chance to step back in time and experience what its like to work three floor pedals  with none being the accelerator  and drive like many did in the early 20th century.

Related: 13 Model Ts and TT trucks being auctioned from private Michigan estate

Registration is now open at gilmorecarmuseum.org for those interested in getting behind the wheel of a Model T in the coming year. The Model T experience is offered on select dates from May through October, rain or shine, and requires pre-registration. Class options are from 9 a.m. to noon or 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

In years past, classes have filled up fast, a news release from the Gilmore states.

The worlds best-selling automobile during its production years of 1908 to 1927, long-held the record as the most-produced vehicle until the Volkswagen Beetle surpassed it in 1972 after 34 years of production.

For those eager to get behind the wheel of one of Michigans most-well known bits of history, theres a reason instructors are there to guide you.

For starters  well, you have to crank start most Model Ts  driving a Model T is quite a bit different than driving a modern vehicle.

As there is no gas pedal, the throttle is controlled by a small lever on the right side of the steering column. A second lever on the floor allows the driver to work the brakes and clutch.

The three floor pedals on the floor, meanwhile, consist of a brake on the right, a reverse pedal in the middle and a pedal on the left to shift the gears between low and high speed.

Instructors at the Gilmore will teach all the basics, from crank starting to the coordination of hand and foot controls, to proper shifting technique and how to reverse and stop the vehicle. All students must have a valid drivers license or learners permit.

Class size is limited for a more personalized, one-on-one learning experience. Each vehicle can hold one instructor and three students. Students will each have the opportunity to drive on three miles of paved roads within the Gilmores campus.

Related: Tour the countrys biggest auto museum is in the middle of nowhere, Michigan

In addition to learning how to drive, students will receive a historian-guided tour of select portions of the Gilmore where they will learn about the impact the Model T had on the world.

Participants will also receive an exclusive souvenir Model T booklet, a certificate of completion and admission to the entire Gilmore campus for the day. Classes booked before Dec. 25 include a free commemorative wooden Model T holiday ornament.

For more information, visit gilmorecarmuseum.org/learn/model-t-driving-experience, email info@gilmorecarmuseum.org or call 269-671-5089. Registration for a 3-hour class is $125 per student.

The Gilmore Car Museum is located at 6865 Hickory Road in Hickory Corners, 20 minutes north of Kalamazoo and 45 minutes south of Grand Rapids.

The Kalamazoo Gazette/MLive now offers free email news alerts. Click here to sign up for alerts or for the daily 3@3 Kalamazoo roundup of news. Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page here.
KALAMAZOO, MI  Two new grant programs aim to help support and strengthen developing and existing experiential-learning programs at Western Michigan University.

Western Michigan University President Edward Montgomery announced the launch of the Experience Driven Learning Accelerator Grants and Experience Driven Incubator Grants during the annual State of the University Address on Wednesday, Oct. 25.
CASS COUNTY, MI -- A pedestrian was struck by a vehicle that left the scene after the crash, the Cass County Sheriffs Office reports.

Deputies responded at 4:25 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, to a pedestrian hit-and-run crash on U.S. 12 near Bell Road in Milton Township.
PORTAGE, MI  A Portage mayoral candidate who was removed from the ballot by a circuit court judge has had her write-in candidacy officially accepted by the Kalamazoo County Clerks Office.

Former City Councilwoman Lisa Brayton, 52, had her name stricken from the ballot on Sept. 8 over a residency issue on her affidavit. She officially became approved as a write-in candidate on Wednesday, Oct. 25.
CALHOUN COUNTY, MI -- Police are looking for a man after an alleged assault Wednesday at a womans home in Calhoun County.

The incident ended when the woman pulled a gun on the man and he fled, the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office said.

At 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, Calhoun County Sheriffs Office deputies responded to a report of an assault 11 1/2 Mile Road in Burlington Township.

A woman who lives there told police she pulled into her garage and went around to the back of her vehicle to get her belongings. An unknown male pushed her from behind, causing her to hit her head on the vehicle, the woman told police.

The woman retrieved her gun, which led the suspect to take off running.

Police called it a concealed carry weapon and confirmed it was a gun she used to scare the person off.

The woman did not recognize the man, police said.

He is described as a white male in his early to mid-30s with sandy-colored hair. He was wearing a dark-colored flannel shirt and possibly muck boots, police said. He was not reported to be carrying a weapon, police said.

Police conducted a K9 track and the man was not located.

The Calhoun County Sheriffs Office is asking residents in the area to check trail cameras or home monitoring systems for any suspicious activity or sightings of the suspect.

The woman suffered minor injuries and she was not taken in for treatment, the sheriffs office said.

Anyone with information can contact the Calhoun County Sheriffs Office at 269-781-0880 or Silent Observer at 269-781-9700.
With a deadline looming, a public rift has emerged among Democrats as Michigan lawmakers wrestle with how much information their own financial disclosures should provide the public.

Bipartisan legislation in the state Senate that received mixed reviews from transparency advocates Wednesday is moving forward, while Democrats in the House hoping for more expansive disclosures saw their proposal sidelined by leaders in their chamber, where Democrats hold a majority.

Critics and the proponents alike of bills in the Senate Oversight Committee Wednesday characterized their proposal as just a start on long-awaited transparency reforms.

Background: Will Michigans financial disclosure law reveal politicians long-hidden perks? Its up to them.

Two-thirds of Michigan voters approved Proposal 1 in 2022, which created a constitutional requirement for some state politicians to file personal financial disclosures, a key anticorruption measure. But what exactly needs to be disclosed and to what extent was vague and left up to legislators to decide, who are legally mandated to pass a law implementing the measure by the end of the year.

Sen. Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield, urged those concerned about gaps in the proposed disclosure requirements to shake off your pessimism at the hearing, calling it objectively a huge step forward compared to the system that does not hold our elected officials accountable.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson voiced her support before emphasizing fixes she felt the legislation needed. Leaving out officeholders family members creates too many loopholes, Benson said.

More: Financial disclosures proposed for Michigan politicians are pretty weak, advocates say

Weve often said we want to go from worst to first, she said in testimony. These bills on their own would not take us there.

The Senate legislation only requires filers to list their spouses occupation. Former Rep. Dave LaGrand testified to urge the Senators to require spouses to also disclose financial information. Otherwise, LaGrand said, politicians will simply place assets and business interests they want to hide under their spouses name which would invalidate the will of the people, the intent of this legislation, and it will be a hole you can drive the Titanic through.

Delaney Marsco, an attorney with the watchdog Campaign Legal Center specializing in ethics, said spousal disclosure is typically required because a spouses financial interest is pretty much indistinguishable from the lawmakers financial interest.

Later in the day, 22 of the 56 Democrats in the House introduced a somewhat more robust proposal than what the Senate is considering. Their legislation would require financial disclosures from politicians immediate family members, require more kinds of statewide officeholders to file disclosures and threatens a $10,000 penalty for lying in a filing, rather than the $1,000 proposed in the Senate.

But Democratic House leaders prevented the bills from being sent to any committee, freezing the legislation from receiving a public hearing.

The representatives spearheading the bill package, who had initially envisioned broader and more stringent disclosure requirements, spent months negotiating with House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, and other leaders, but were unable to reach an agreement, a source with knowledge of the discussions said. A decision was made to introduce the legislation anyway, but Amber McCann, spokesperson for House Speaker Joe Tate, said leadership hadnt been apprised of that choice.

There have been ongoing discussions for quite some time about some of the different items that Reps. (Erin) Byrnes and (Philip) Skaggs were looking at in terms of those that went beyond the letter of the constitutional amendment, McCann said.

She said itd be premature to speculate on the fate of their proposal. In April, Tate told MLive I think theres an appetite to be able to do more; those havent all been flushed out.

Byrnes, who represents Grand Rapids, is also chair of the elections and ethics committee. She told reporters she didnt know why their proposal was sidelined.

We certainly want to pass legislation that really moves into the spirit of the ballot measure and what the voters want, Byrnes said. For me, I think the spousal and dependent pieces are really important. ... the possibility of assets being transferred or shielded is a concern. And we want to do everything that we can to prevent that.

In the Senate, there is promise from the legislations authors that these bills are just the beginning and more will come, but Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Coldwater, noted that everything that comes after Proposal 1s implementation is optional.

These bills are in front of us because the people forced it, he said. Theres not another opportunity on the horizon to say were forced into crafting legislation.
Ford and the United Auto Workers union have reached a tentative agreement as the Stand Up strike appears to be done after 41 days.

The contract still has to be shared with union members who will vote whether or not to ratify it.

In the meantime, 20,000 Ford employees will return to work to restart production at the Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant.

We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations, Ford CEO and President Jim Farley said in a statement.

Over the past month-plus, the three striking Ford plants caused ripple effects to 10 other production facilities leading to 3,167 layoffs in addition to more than 16,600 striking workers, according to Ford.

Although UAW members wont see the full details until Sunday, Ford employee Ramona Jocys, 56, said shes optimistic. Jocys has worked at Ford for more than three decades and was among the 3,300 workers to start the strike at midnight on Sept. 15 at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne.

For months weve said that record profits mean record contracts. And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered, UAW President Shawn Fain said.

What started at three plants at midnight on September 15, has become a national movement. We won things nobody thought possible. Since the strike began, Ford put 50% more on the table than when we walked out. This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry. Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country.

Fain highlighted major wage gains including base wage increases larger than Ford workers have received in the past 22 years.

The agreement grants 25% in base wage increases through April 2028, and will cumulatively raise the top wage by over 30% to more than $40 an hour. It will also raise the starting wage by 68%, to over $28 an hour, according to the UAW.

The lowest-paid workers at Ford will see a raise of more than 150% over the life of the agreement, with some workers receiving an immediate 85% increase upon ratification, according to the UAW.

Throughout the striking process the union pushed to regain ground lost during the Great Recession when the union reopened contracts and agreed to concessions to help the automakers during bankruptcy.

Among the concessions was adding tiered pay systems so that workers who came in after 2007 were at a different wage tier. Temporary workers were on an eight-year wage progression plan when contract negotiations started.

Reinstated benefits like cost-of-living allowances, ending seniority tiers and a shortened three-year wage progression were major wins for the union.

Although traditional defined-benefit pension plans did not come back, the union says the tentative agreement improves retirement for current retirees, those workers with pensions, and those who have 401(k) plans. It also includes a historic right to strike over plant closures, a first for the union.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer congratulated the union and automakers on a historic deal.

There is a lot riding on these negotiations, she said. We are in a fierce competition with the rest of the world for the future of manufacturing  and all eyes are on Michigan. We can be the example to the rest of the nation on how to bring jobs back home from overseas and keep making stuff here in Michigan.

Outlasting the most recent strike against GM in 2019, the Stand Up also became the most expensive in history at an estimated $9.9 billion in losses for the auto industry, according to Anderson Economics Group.

The nearly 25,000 workers striking at General Motors and Stellantis will stay on the picket line until the other automakers reach a deal. Both Stellantis and General Motors were hit with large strike targets this week as the union took out profitable assembly plants.

In previous negotiations, the union would go to one company and have a pattern deal to bring to the other two. The Stand Up Strikes historic first of striking against and negotiating with all three automakers are once has leveraged the companys proposals against one another.

I hope this momentum will help the UAW and the remaining companies reach an agreement so Michiganders can get back to doing what they do best, Whitmer said. Michigan is home to phenomenal companies powered by the best autoworkers in the world. Lets keep it that way.
Sign up for Reckons latest newsletter dedicated to the fight for reproductive justice, a weekly repro rundown covering the good, the fair-to-middlin' and the ugly in repro news. Enter your email to subscribe to Reproductive Justice with Reckon.

The internet has been buzzing since word of Britney Spears abortion hit the news cycle ahead of the release of her memoir, The Woman in Me. Only about two full pages out of the memoirs 277 pages are dedicated to telling Spears abortion story, yet hundreds of articles and social media posts now center this narrative. From sharing the news to calling out Justin Timberlake to finding new meaning to her Everytime music video, the internet has a lot to say.

And though several celebrities have released their abortion stories this year  including Leslie Jones, Kerry Washington and Paris Hilton  none of them resonate like Britneys.

In the book, Spears describes becoming pregnant during her and Timberlakes relationship  the two dated from 1999 to 2002  as a surprise, but not a tragedy. According to the book, Timberlake was strongly against the idea of the two becoming parents, which led to her decision to have an abortion.

Abortion was something I never would have imagined choosing for myself, but given the circumstances, that is what we did, wrote Spears.

To protect her privacy, Spears opted for a self-managed medical abortion at home, which only Timberlake and her then-assistant Felicia knew about. She describes her experience as extremely painful, which included excruciating cramps, sobbing and screaming in pain for hours, wondering if she was going to die.

To this day, its one of the most agonizing things I have ever experienced in my life, Spears writes, describing the physical pain she endured.

The reaction this story has received begs the question: Why do we care so much about Britney Spears abortion  something that occurred over 20 years ago? How does Spears abortion fit into the reproductive justice conversation today?

Shes actually articulating a lot of the things that people who have abortions say and feel before they share their abortion stories, said Renee Bracey Sherman, co-executive director of We Testify, an organization committed to increasing the spectrum of abortion storytellers.

Her story is complex and human

Abortion has been painted as a binary, with strong opposing views and an either/or approach, especially as the battle for abortion rights in some states remains up for grabs. But this can leave some people who have abortions conflicted, feeling like they need to fit into a box.

Either you love your abortion or you regret it, said Bracey Sherman.

According to Guttmacher, there is little research surrounding people who have negative emotions towards their abortions and the way abortion is politicized causes stories that express feelings of regret to be minimized or exaggerated to fit a side.

There is no cookie cutter pro-choice or pro-life abortion story, which Spears models. She felt pressured, yet made the choice she felt would best fit her relationship at the time.

Spears wrote that she kind of understood why Timberlake thought they werent ready to have a baby and so they opted for abortion.

If he didnt want to become a father, I didnt feel like I had much of a choice. I wouldnt want to push him into something he didnt want, said Spears.

This isnt an isolated experience. Some women participating in the Social Sources of Womens Emotional Difficulty After Abortion study shared that the pressure they felt from parents or partners led to resentment or regret of their abortion in some cases.

People who are more likely to have ambivalence about their abortions or come to regret them, its usually because they felt like the decision overall wasnt in their control, which is what she described, said Bracey Sherman.

A 2020 study showed that five years after their abortion, 84 percent of people reported having positive feelings or no feelings at all about their abortion.

Even if they had difficulty making the decision initially, or if they felt their community would not approve, our research shows that the overwhelming majority of women who obtain abortions continue to believe it was the right decision, Corinne Rocca, Ph.D., MPH, and associate professor at UCSF Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, said of the study.

Lisa Rowe, clinical social worker and CEO of Support After Abortion, says that more people are calling in for support as at-home abortion has grown and allowed for a more isolated experience when those having an abortion dont have a network of support.

Theyre finding themselves dealing with their experience all by themselves and for some people, thats a benefit to them, but for others that can be challenging, said Rowe.

Britneys sex sells

Spears was both a symbol of sex and purity  both the Madonna and the whore  even though she was only 16 when her first hit, Baby One More Time, was released in 1998.

That first Rolling Stone cover was so pivotal in how Britney Spears was presented to the world, said Lynn Comella, Ph.D., Professor of Gender and Sexuality Studies and Chair of the Department of Interdisciplinary, Gender and Ethnic Studies at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.

This 1999 magazine cover, shot by David LaChapelle, provided a visual to this dynamic: A teen girl laying on silk sheets, talking on the phone, while wearing lingerie and holding a Teletubby doll.

She really embodied this contradictory cultural space that so many young women find themselves in, where theyre expected to be virginal, and yet theyre hyper-sexualized as well, said Comella.

Britney not a virgin has 44,600,000 Google results at the time of this writing, with the top stories discussing her mention in the memoir of the eternal virgin image pushed onto her. Spears and other pop stars of the 90s were marketed as purity champions, who were saving themselves for marriage. Spears faced media scrutiny in 2002 when Timberlake, and later she, revealed that they in fact did have sex.

I think the cultural obsession with teenage girls and womens sexuality comes out in a lot of ways around Britney Spears, with this seeming obsession about whether or not she had ever been sexually active, said Comella, citing the double-standard that saw few speculate about Timberlakes sexual status.

This dynamic followed Spears throughout her career, from the 2003 Madonna VMAs kiss to questioning her status as a mother.

I think if people had found out she had had an abortion, I think she would have really been severely criticized, said Brenda Boudreau, English professor at McKendree University and editor of Abortion in Popular Culture: A Call to Action.

Hearing abortion stories are important

The media has made a more active effort to include abortion narratives, with 60 abortion-focused plotlines on TV last year. Greys Anatomy included a post-Roe storyline, which included travel for abortion care and the impact doctors face. Research suggests that how abortion is depicted on TV can either add to or break down stigma.

Theyre really humanizing the stories, making it seem like this is a womans choice and she should have a right to make it, which I dont think youve got the same sort of support for that sort of narrative, [in the past] certainly not in the late 90s and early 2000s, said Boudreau.

Leaders in the pro-choice movement, like Shout Your Abortion, say that sharing abortion experiences helps normalize the conversation and remove the stigma many develop from cultural or religious influences.

Its really, really important that we hear a variety of stories. Theres a danger in a single story, said Bracey Sherman, who believes that the pro-choice movement has elevated stories that portray abortion in a more positive light to protect against the stigma. But then that becomes to the detriment of people who do have complicated abortion stories. My belief is that we should just let abortion stories exist as they are.

Spears sharing her abortion story brings a very common experience to life. It recognizes the that could never be me thought process in order to showcase that choices may change when placed in a real-life scenario. Her story illustrates that reproductive rights go beyond political framework because there is no perfect abortion story.
Professor Kofi Agyekum, the Head of Linguistics at the University of Ghana, has condemned the politicization of the Akosombo Dam spillage which has seen thousands of residents in the Volta Region displaced.

The spillage has affected over 30,000 people, prompting a massive relocation effort and relief initiatives by the government, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO), and various individuals, all aimed at helping the affected residents return to normal life.

However, amidst these relief efforts, some politicians, both in the government and the opposition, have seized the opportunity to score political points, turning a humanitarian crisis into a political battleground.

There are also individuals who have chosen to blame the victims, arguing that their refusal to vacate the affected areas despite warnings makes them partly responsible for their plight.

Prof. Kofi Agyekum addressed this concern during an interview on Peace FM's 'Kokrokoo' morning show on Tuesday.

He emphasized the need for leaders and political figures in the country to exercise restraint and care when commenting on the incident.

"This is not the time for loose talks. Carry your words," he said.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has expressed anger and dismay over comments made by the Minister of Sanitation and Water Resources, Freda Prempeh, regarding the victims of the Akosombo Dam spillage in Mepe and surrounding areas.

The Minister described the victims as stubborn for refusing to relocate despite repeated warnings by authorities.

In an interview with journalists, Minister Freda Prempeh stated, "We don't want what has happened in Akosombo to happen to us in Accra.

The Akosombo spillage, even though VRA, NADMO, and the Water Resources Commission came together to educate the people in the community, did a simulation exercise at Mepe, yet they refused to leave, they didn't want to be evacuated, they stayed there till the end when we started spilling."

She continued, "Unfortunately, look at what is happening. The government has to spend millions of money on relief items, the whole area, the water is contaminated, and Ghana Water Company and Water Resources Commission will have to spend millions of money to treat the water before we can pass it through into our pipes."

In a reaction to the Minister's comments, Mr. Ablakwa cautioned her not to provoke the victims, who are already grappling with the aftermath of the flooding.

Speaking to Class FM monitored by ModernGhana News, Mr. Ablakwa stated, "These Akufo-Addo Ministers should stop adding insults to injury.

We are pained, we are distressed, we are depressed, we are devastated. They should stop these things; it's getting on our nerves. We've had enough of their blatant lies."

The MP raised a series of questions and challenged the Minister to provide dates the warnings were given.

She should tell us whenshe should give us dates, when did they come here? She herself, has she been here before? Does she know what shes talking about? Move to where? She said the people refused to move, move to where?

Is she aware that we were here more than 200 years before the dam was constructed? That we had to give out portions of our land for these two dams to be constructed? I mean the level of ignorance is shocking, they should stop embarrassing themselves, that the people refused to move, move to where?

Mr. Ablakwa emphasized that the Minority in Parliament would be filing a motion for a full-scale probe into the situation.

He expressed the hope that such an investigation would be conducted transparently, with proceedings broadcast on television for transparency.

The Akosombo Dam spillage has displaced approximately 26,000 people, causing damage to farmlands and properties.
Nana Akomea has commended the Ministry of Roads and Highways for promptly referring the allegations of bribery made by Prof. Stephen Adei to the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for investigation.

Prof. Adei, the former Director-General and Rector of the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), recently accused government officials of demanding a payment of 1 million cedis bribe for road contracts.

In an interview with TV3, Prof. Adei alleged, "This road contract would be given to you, provided you put one million upfront, not after you have gotten the money.

This is what Akufo-Addo must be thinking about, and if he knows about it, he must be ashamed. That now his people demand from you a certain amount before you would be considered for a job.

Why? Because when they get it, whether the government pays you or not, they have gotten their money. It is as if people are in a hurry to loot the country before the end of Akufo-Addo's term."

In reaction to the allegations, the Ministry of Roads and Highways issued a statement emphasizing that, These allegations are surprising at the least because the processes leading to the award of road contracts are open, transparent, competitive and in accordance with the law.

Given that the alleged conduct borders on the commission of crime against the Republic, the Minister of Roads and Highways, Hon. Kwasi Amoako-Attah, has today, 23rd October 2023, requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to fully investigate the allegations, it added.

Nana Akomea, while speaking on Peace FM's Kokrokoo morning show commended the Ministry's decision to refer the matter to EOCO.

"Im happy that the Ministry has transferred the issue to EOCO," he said.

He urged EOCO to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

"If it's true that some people at the Ministry are collecting 1 million cedis, it is a serious issue," he added.
French President Emmanuel Macron was in Cairo this Wednesday for talks on the Israel-Hamas conflict with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, where humanitarian relief and medical support for the Gaza strip topped the agenda.

At a joint news conference with President al-Sisi following the talks, Macron insisted that humanitarian aid must enter into Gaza without obstacles.

He added that it was essential to get fuel supplies to hospitals, adding that a French navy ship would arrive soon to help bring support to Gaza hospitals and that a plane will arrive in Egypt with key supplies.

Macron also said that it was necessary to avoid regional escalation following the conflict between Israel and Hamas, adding that a two-state solution was necessary for peace in the Middle East.

"It is not because it is an old idea [a two-state solution] that it is an obsolete idea," he said.

Containing the crisis

President al-Sisi told the press conference that he agreed with Macron to work to contain the crisis in Gaza, introduce aid and seek to prevent other parties from entering the conflict.

He added that Macron understood that any displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza strip towards Egyptian territory would be "extremely dangerous".

"We condemn all actions that affect all civilians and this should be addressed with one standard," al-Sisi added.

President al-Sisi had earlier stated that Egypt was doing "all it can" to push for de-escalation and a ceasefire, as well as to "support civilians in Gaza" by securing aid through the Rafah border crossing, the only passage in and out of the territory not controlled by Israel.

'Double standards'

Meanwhile, Macron rejected accusations of France practicing "double standards" pushing back against criticism of his government's response to war between Israel and Hamas.

During the joint press conference, the French president stressed that "International law applies to everyone and France carries the universal values of humanism," in response to claims by Arab leaders who have accused Western nations of overlooking harm to Palestinians.

"All lives are equal, all victims deserve our compassion and our lasting commitment to a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East," Macron added.

On Tuesday, Macron visited the occupied West Bank for talks with Mahmud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority after meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netnayahu.

Talks in Amman

Earlier Wednesday, President Macron was in Amman, where he met King Abdullah II, who stressed that "stopping the war on Gaza is an absolute necessity, and the world must move immediately in this direction."

Arab leaders have pushed for a ceasefire and a return to a political process, echoing wider warnings of a potential regional spill-over of the Israel-Hamas war.

King Abdullah warned against "the continuation of the war on the Gaza Strip, which might lead to an explosion in the situation in the region".

Egypt and Jordan were the first two Arab states to forge relations with Israel, in 1979 and 1994 respectively, and have since played key mediator roles.

(with newswires)
Former President John Dramani Mahama, who is the flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2024 elections, has attended a fundraising lunch hosted by the Canada Chapter of the party in Toronto.

During the event, he praised the organisation and vibrancy of the NDC in Canada, saying, "Most people have the thinking that the NDC is not very vibrant here in Canada. I will go and tell them that we have a very strong, vibrant, energetic, enthusiastic chapter in Ghana."

Mahama reminded them of the importance of hard work, unity, and continuous support to win the upcoming 2024 elections.

He expressed his gratitude to the members who tirelessly contributed their time, effort, and resources to raise funds to support the party, stating that these activities would assist the party in executing its vision for a better Ghana in 2025.

Mahama congratulated the Chapter for their solidarity and strong support for their member, the MP for Assin North James Gyakye Quayson, to retain the seat in the recent by-election. He encouraged the branch executives from the various provinces to work with the Chapter executives to spread the NDCs message of hope and continue to win more people to the party.

He recognised their dedication to fostering stronger ties within the Ghanaian community in Canada and encouraged them to continue their endeavours.

Mahama praised the members for their commitment to the NDC's values, highlighting their impressive participation in the fundraising event. The audience was highly receptive, erupting into applause and dancing at various intervals of the programme. According to some, their flag bearer's presence has invigorated their dedication and commitment to the cause of the NDC.

The former president expressed his appreciation to a large delegation of chiefs who attended the programme, recognising that their presence reflected their desire and commitment to building one Ghana that meets the aspirations of all. After his address, Mahama and his wife engaged and interacted with the party supporters, posing for photos and listening to their concerns and advice.

He reassured the attendees of his commitment to serving the Ghanaian people and his determination to lead the NDC to victory in the next election. Mahama was in Canada to attend the Universities Studying Slavery (USS) Conference 2023 in Halifax and present a paper at the University of Calgary.

He took the opportunity to connect with members of his party, the Ghanaian community, and potential investors in Ghana and Africa.

In addition to meeting with NDC members, Mahama also engaged with the Ghanaian communities in Halifax and Calgary. He also spoke at business forums organised by the Canada Ghana Chamber of Commerce and the Ghana Association in Canada.

Classfmonline
The Old Vandals Association (OVA) of Ghana has vents its spleen on the management of the University of Ghana, particularly the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ghana, for her autocratic leadership style.

The Association is enraged by the stalled Vandal City Annex Project (VCAP), which it alleged is being orchestrated by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, who is determined not to see it materialise.

The project, comprising a 4,600-bed residential facility, was to be completed 2 years ago but is now stalled.

Addressing journalists in Accra, President of the Old Vandals Association Isaac Nketiah Sarpong wants management of the school to be called to order.

It is public knowledge that the University of Ghana has been in the news in recent times for all the wrong reasons relating to accommodation challenges faced by students, observed Mr Nketiah Sarpong.

As part of our efforts to ameliorate the perennial accommodation crisis in the University, we set out to support our alma mater with the construction of a 4,600-bed residential facility. The project which was nicknamed the Vandal City Annex Project (VCAP) was to be undertaken in partnership with a strategic investor and was to be completed some two years ago.

The University leased a parcel of land for this project to OVA. As soon as the contractor mobilised resources to commence construction, some few faculty members of the University started a resistance movement against the construction of the facility. Indeed, we have the Vice-Chancellor on record that she was opposed to the project and that she would do everything in her powers to frustrate the construction of the annex by the Old Vandals Association. This she said whilst she was the Pro-Vice-Chancellor. We struggle to understand what could drive such holders of respectable offices in the University to be so anti-development to such magnitude, he stressed.

Isaac Nketiah Sarpong

The Association is also worried about the continuous antagonistic attitude being portrayed by the University administrators towards Old Vandals by blocking them from accessing the school or any of its facilities following the recent impasse between Vandals (of the Commonwealth Hall) and the Vikings (of the Mensah-Sarbah Hall), a matter which is due for court hearing on Thursday, October, 26.

What is most bizarre about this decision is that as of today, there is no conclusive evidence as to who the persons who engaged in those dastardly acts in the first week of August 2022 were.

This notwithstanding, the Hall Master, the Senior Tutor, and students of the Commonwealth Hall have been handed sanctions of various degrees without due process being observed. These are matters engaging the attention of the courts currently and, at the appropriate time, we shall keep you posted on developments.

The Old Vandals were not spared either. Apart from being barred from entering the Hall and its environs, the Management of the University caused the keys and locks to the offices of OVA located in the Hall to be changed and locked us out. It may interest you to know that the offices were assigned to OVA by the Management of the Hall and that OVA spent a decent amount of money to refurbish and equip same for use.

The Association said as law-abiding citizens, it will employ every legitimate means to suppress the University of Ghana new policy on residential accommodation which resulted in the sacking of all male students from the hall.

The relevance of student leadership as incubation hub for national leaders cannot be overemphasised. It must be echoed right here that the future of the University of Ghana, situated at Legon  The Hill of Knowledge  of which we are proud alumni, is threatened by the continuous promotion of tyranny, autocracy and administrative arbitrariness at the heart of decision-making. The voices of students through NUGS, SRC, JCR systems that hitherto served as incubation centres for national leaders have now been rendered moribund. As to what the motive of the current crop of leaders at the university are, only time will tell.

The culture of silence that virtually suppresses human rights and freedoms has become the mainstay of the University of Ghana, rendering the atmosphere uncharacteristic of a university establishment.

For us Old Vandals, as alumni of the University we are so proud of, we cannot sit on the fence to see many decades of toil that built the University of Ghana to be destroyed by the serial administrative decisions that lack logic, reason and good conscience to the satisfaction of the egos of people in charge of its administration today.

Old Vandals, as a law-abiding group, we believe in and revere the law. It is in this spirit that we have sought refuge in the courts. Our faith in the judiciary never wavers and we shall continue to use all legitimate tools at our disposal to ensure the return of the rule of law to the campus of the University of Ghana, the Association vowed.

3news.com
Mr. Charles Aheto Tsegah, the former Director General of the Ghana Education Service (GES), has spoken favorably about the country's new curriculum, which places a strong emphasis on both acquiring and applying knowledge.

This standard-based curriculum was introduced in primary schools in 2019 through collaborative efforts between the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Ministry of Education (MoE), and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NaCCA). The curriculum encompasses kindergarten to primary six.

According to Mr Tsegah, the shift to this standard-based curriculum has garnered support from many educators, including teachers and head teachers.

In an interview with Korku Lumor on Class FM's morning show on October 25, 2023, Mr. Charles Aheto Tsegah highlighted the importance of this curriculum and its ongoing development.

He explained that the curriculum is currently undergoing a review process to incorporate content related to contemporary developments that have not traditionally been part of the educational system. This content includes aspects of society, people's social behavior, the economy, politics, and emerging dimensions in the educational system that children should learn.

Mr. Tsegah expressed his concern that Ghanaians often seem more interested in learning about European history than their own national history. He stressed that the new curriculum aims to create space for teaching relevant and engaging concepts.

He also noted that the curriculum seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, emphasising that students will discover how STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) theory can be applied in real-world situations. This approach will connect stories of inventions, classroom teaching, and real-life experiences.

As an example, Mr. Tsegah pointed out that in the United States, where Americans learn about the history of their country, STEM subjects are actively pursued.

He emphasised that the history of Ghana should be equally valued and made a mandatory part of the educational experience for all students.

Classfmonline
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The President of the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) Rev. Isaac Owusu has called for urgent educational restructuring to mitigate the impact of the Akosombo Dam Spillage on education, teaching and learning.

GNAT is worried about the persistently slow pace at which the government has been responding to the restoration of education activities in the affected communities.

This came to light during one of its visits to Mepe in the North Tongu Constituency to assess the destruction to education, lives, and property.

GNAT President Rev. Isaac Owusu expressed shock at the slow pace of efforts to help teachers and students get their lives back.

Over 300 teachers from Volta and Oti regions have been displaced, with over 70 schools closed, and thousands of students affected painting a clear picture of the current state of Mepe and other affected communities.

A timely visit by officials of the Ghana National Association to assess firsthand the extent of damage also offered leadership the level of support to offer its members.

A cash donation of 150,000 cedis from GNAT and the Teachers Fund was aimed at alleviating some prevailing challenges.

Rev. Isaac Owusu was highly concerned about the impact of the spillage on educational activities at in all affected communities. Looking at what I have come to see together with my colleagues here is a very sad situation that we find ourselves in.

Right here, the head teacher has lost everything and in his office, 18 people are sleeping there. Now are children who used to be in a nice structure look at where they are now, under trees. So I think what we have seen, whatever we can do to bring relief to the victims we shouldnt hesitate at all, he revealed.

Leadership also called for a clear roadmap from government to restore education to normalcy imploring the presidency to be swift with response efforts.

The delegation toured some of the classrooms which have been converted into camp sites for affected persons. A classroom can house at least 3 households comprising of more than 15 persons. The teachers were also encouraged to look out for the best of their students despite their predicament.

The Regional Chairman of GNAT, David Kwabla Kattah, disclosed that the funds would be put to good use as a short-term measure encouraging members to strive for the best.

Currently, there is voluntary teaching and learning ongoing at which the educational minister has announced will be facilitated as a short-term measure to keep students active in the classrooms.

According to the General Secretary of GNAT, Tanko Musah, UNICEFs principle of education in emergencies hold that teachers have to be organised as quickly as possible and also resourced and given all the assistance they need to keep hopes alive.

The ministry must put an intervention in place to get it done, he emphasized.
A political science lecturer at the University of Cape Coast in the Central Region has expressed concerns regarding the absence of a clear message in Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia's campaign for the presidential primary of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the 2024 general elections.

Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere voiced his worries in the lead-up to the NPP's presidential primary scheduled for November 4, 2023, as well as amid allegations of inducement of delegates involving the Vice President. He made these remarks during an interview on Accra 100.5 FM's evening news on Wednesday.

Dr Otchere remarked, "If you ask me, I have nothing to say about the Vice President's campaign in terms of message."

He emphasised that the campaign has been lacking a clear message all along, and he couldn't identify any specific message that the Vice President is using to drive his campaign to lead the party in the 2024 elections.

He further pointed out that the Vice President's campaign appeared to be primarily centered on garnering support from individuals within the government, and this seemed to be the primary focus.

In contrast, he commended the campaign team of Mr Kennedy Agyepong for its efforts to address issues related to the welfare of delegates, which he believed was a more substantial and relatable message.

Dr Otchere also raised concerns about potential defections from the party if the bias for the Vice President continued in the lead-up to the presidential primary.

He suggested that such favouritism could lead to more party members breaking away.

In summary, Dr Jonathan Asante Otchere expressed reservations about the lack of a clear and substantive message in Vice President Bawumia's campaign for the NPP presidential primary and the 2024 general elections.

Classfmonline
Residents of Garu in the Upper East Region have clashed with four national security operatives on Tuesday, October 25.

The residents besieged the Garu District police station to demand occupants of a Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle with registration number GS 7520-22.

The national security operatives, according to some youth of Garu, were seen at about 10pm yesterday in an unusual movement within the township.

They said the movement raised suspicion which caused them to monitor their movement. The strange Toyota Land Cruiser reportedly parked at a primary school.

Due to the volatile situation of the renewed conflict in neighbouring Bawku, the residents mustered the courage and approached the vehicle.

They confronted the occupants of the vehicle who confirmed being staff of national security and were on an assignment.

The residents who doubted their identity marched the operatives together with their vehicle to the Garu police station. At the police station, they were interrogated and their identity as operatives of the National Security was confirmed.

Right before the youth, the Police searched and found M16 rifles, three pistols and bulletproof jackets in the vehicle.

The District Police Commander, Supt Daniel Yaro calmed the situation and explained to the irate youth the occupants of the V8 were truly National Security operatives but the residents still doubted the Police Commander.

At about 0500hrs, some unknown gunmen stormed the Garu Police Station and started firing sporadically. The national security operatives' vehicle was destroyed in the process.

Sources say the whole township was blazing with gunshots. It took a reinforcement of a military team from Bawku to restore calm in Garu which is about an hour drive due to the bad nature of the road that has never been tarred.

Many believed the reaction from the residents of Garu towards the National Security Operatives was the effort of the youth to guard and ensure the conflict in Bawku does not escalate into the area which harbours different tribes and enjoying peace.
Ghana and South Africa have affirmed their commitment to partnering on housing, human settlements and urban development.

This came during a bilateral meeting between Ghana's Minister for Works and Housing, Mr Francis Asenso-Boakye and South Africa's Minister for Housing and Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi, in Accra.

Mr Kubayi is in Ghana on an official visit to strengthen ties and explore avenues for collaboration between the two countries in the housing sectors.

In his remarks, Mr Asenso-Boakye said the complexities of housing delivery require urgent, innovative solutions based on mutual government commitments.

Our joint efforts in pressing issues of slum upgrading, improvement of informal settlements and the lives of those who inhabit them can have a profound impact on the well-being and living conditions of a significant portion of our populations, he noted.

Mr Kubayi stated that South Africa is ready to commit to the new partnership to resolve a myriad of housing delivery challenges.

To us, this partnership and commitments also include sharing of experiences, knowledge and best practices in the housing sectors of our countries and how we can practicalise the implementations of what we seek to commit, he added.

The visit follows previous fruitful discussions between both Ministers laying the groundwork for collaboration, especially on enhancing housing delivery frameworks.

Besides meeting President Akufo-Addo, Minister Kubayi will also engage in a business session hosted by the Ghana Investment Promotion Centre for housing stakeholders.

The two countries aim to work closely to address housing deficiencies through exchanging expertise and cooperative efforts. Their pledge signals a commitment to improving living conditions for all citizens.
The Minister for Sanitation and Water Resources, Dr Freda Akosua Prempeh, has launched a 'Hand Hygiene for All Strategy and Roadmap' to mark Global Handwashing Day.

At a press briefing in Cape Coast on Tuesday, she entreated Ghanaians to embrace handwashing as part of their daily routine to help curb the spread of illnesses like ebola, cholera, diarrhoea and COVID-19.

She noted that research shows that handwashing with soap prevents disease more effectively and affordably than any single vaccine.

"The Hand Hygiene for All Strategy demonstrates the governments commitment to ensuring everyone in Ghana, regardless of circumstances, has access to proper hand hygiene," she emphasized.

Dr Prempeh noted that the initiative goes beyond a campaign, signalling government's resolve to make basic hand hygiene accessible across the nation to safeguard public health.

The strategy aligns with Global Handwashing Day, an annual campaign to promote hygiene as a fundamental health intervention.

The Hand Hygiene for All Roadmap outlines specific actions for stakeholders including increasing public awareness, training health workers, providing handwashing facilities to institutions and monitoring progress from 2022 to 2023.
Former Energy Minister Boakye Agyarko says the call of former Power Minister Kwabena Donkor for a probe of all those involved in the termination of a power purchase agreement with the Ghana Power Generating Company (GPGC), is "irresponsible".

In a statement released on Thursday, 26 October 2023, Mr. Agyarko said: "I deem the utterances most unfortunate and irresponsible coming from a former Minister who ought to know that it is not within my power or province, or that of any Minister to unilaterally cancel or terminate a contract of this nature."

The judgment debt of $140 million, awarded to Singaporean firm Trafigura, has put various Ghanaian assets at risk, including the Ghana High Commission building in the UK, the commissioners residence, the Ghana International Bank building, and other properties.

Mr. Agyarko clarified the circumstances surrounding the decision to review the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), emphasising: "Upon assumption of office, the newly elected NPP government decided to take all the necessary actions to contain the cost of power generation and distribution in Ghana."

He explained that the review was necessary to cut back on losses that would be incurred due to excess energy production. An Inter-Ministerial Committee was established to review the fiscal and legal implications of the PPAs, and the report was submitted to Cabinet for consideration and action.

"The report was subsequently put before Cabinet for consideration and action. Cabinet directed that the report be further reviewed by the Attorney-General. This was done. Cabinet subsequently gave its approval for the recommendation of the report to be implemented.

 Classfmonline
26.10.2023 LISTEN

Ralph Waldo Emerson did say in the Over-Soul The soul is the perceiver and revealer of truth. We know the truth when we see it, let skeptics and scoffers say what they choose You see, I blame the governor of Imo state for failing in his primary responsibility which is to secure the lives and properties of Ndi-Imo. The insecurity that happened in the state for four years is another gross failure of Governor Hope Uzodinmas administration. When a governor and his apostles turn themselves into demigods, it will lead to agitations and disenchantments in the polity. Uzodinma prioritized the construction of roads in the state capital over improving the lives of the people in the rural communities. He basically functioned for four years in the state capital leaving the rural areas to suffer. Democracy is about delivering the greatest goods to the greatest number of people. And from our demography, it shows that the greatest number of our people live in rural areas. The governor did not work in the rural areas.

Ordinary Covid 19 palliatives that were to be shared to the rural people were diverted by government officials. The hoarding of the COVID-19 palliatives is just one example of how things went wrong at the state and at the local government levels, which by and large undermines the efforts of the government at the federal level. So why should anyone be surprised about the agitations and disenchantments in the state?

The insecurity in the state for four years brought about unimaginable underdevelopment and mass misery of the vast majority of Ndi-Imo.With an estimated population of five million persons, five percent of whom are statistically below the age of twenty-five years and based on stupendous agricultural and other innumerable natural resources, Imo should be an indisputable success story but insecurity and political thieving cabals made nonsense of the state.

From Prison breaks to ESN to Unknown gunmen attacks which claimed so many lives and properties in the last 4 years to banditry, kidnapping business, herdsmen-farmers conflicts, communal crises, street hooliganism, cultist attacks, and extra-judicial killing, the state was under siege for 4 years.

Behind the various security crises in Imo are unresolved questions of poverty and want, and most importantly, the neo-colonial capitalist system being superintended over by the Uzodinmas government.

Where are the jobs in Imo? It is a known fact that poverty, joblessness and inability to meet basic needs, are drivers behind rising cases of crimes especially Unknown gunmen, kidnapping and robbery. In the four years of the present Imo state government, living standards have fallen drastically as the majority of Imo citizens cannot meet basic needs. Social services like education and healthcare have been priced out of the reach of the majority, while where they are available at all, the quality is poor. This has meant that a significant proportion of the income of the working people and poor goes to paying for these services that should ordinarily be social, good provided and adequately funded by the government.

Where are the opportunities for the majority of young people in terms of jobs ? The lack of jobs in Imo has led people to seek desperate means to meet basic needs of life. My state is now a state where youths are given laptops with a promise of fake jobs overseas. What will the youths do with the laptops? Maybe to do yahoo yahoo. Myself, I am educated, multi talented and I have working experiences but my state government has refused to give me a job. We have heard several cases of people who go into crimes such as kidnapping and robbery, just to meet basic economic and socio-cultural needs such as paying for medical bills of family members, paying for school fees, feeding, getting married, etc.

I call on the youths, traders, market women and men, shopkeepers associations, including PGs, in the various communities to begin pressing political office holders in local governmentthe SOLADs, the State House of Assembly members, National Assembly Members and the State government to create some decent jobs by building or facilitating the building of SME industries and social amenities. This, we believe, will help begin to take away the youth who are being used as political thugs to cause havoc in our society. However, we believe that things will only improve when the capitalist thieving cabals and their anti-poor system are fully challenged and defeated and in its place we put in an order wherein production and exchange are carried out democratically to meet the needs of all. Who will save Imo? Time shall tell.

-Kenneth Uwadi lives in Mmahu-Egbema, Imo State and can be reached via 08037982714
26.10.2023 LISTEN

According to Albert Einstein the world is a dangerous place, not only because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing Another philosopher, William Blake said When I tell the truth, it is not for the sake of convincing those who do not know it, but for the sake of defending those that do. The first term of four years of Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State will soon come to an end. In preparation for this, a gubernatorial election is to be held, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on November 11th 2023. Various candidates in political parties, including major bourgeois political parties ( PDP, APGA, Labour etc.) are already jostling to succeed Uzodinma. No doubt, in about four years, the government of Uzodinma had carried out some projects. Unfortunately, and in spite of the ample opportunities available to it, the government is ending up as a disappointment to millions of the working people, youth and the poor of the state by not conducting a local government election in 4 years.

Using Sole Administrators in Imo state for four years has not just underscored the inherently inept nature of the Uzodinma's government but has also shown the inability of neo-colonial capitalism to resolve the national question and even the socio-economic issue facing Nigeria. This again shows the failure of the Labor Movement in Imo State on the historical responsibility as the most organized platform of the oppressed, to lead the struggle to end the siege imposed on the state by a ruinous capitalist political class. A series of mass actions through coordinated mass protests, rallies, public mass sensitization , capped with days of strike to demand immediate end to Sole Administration in our LGAs would have definitely cut across the base of deadly forces and their renegade big business backers in the state. But No, we have a lame duck labour union in Imo.

I place emphasis on the labour movement not because other oppressed strata people do not or cannot play a progressive role, but because I recognize the fact that the working class, as a social class, represents the most organized class among the oppressed, which can play the leading role in a movement for building of a better society. Despite the grandstanding of the Uzodinmas government, the state of the LGAs in Imo has worsen. Imo LGAs are now lame as a result of gross underfunding, misuse and abuse of the councils by the ruling class, and massive looting of the council funds. The political and big business class in Imo continue to live parasitically on the wealth of our LGAs , while the working people continue to live in poverty. This subsequently leads to a desperate struggle for survival among the people of the LGA.

A visit to Ohaji/Egbema in Imo State will confirm that lack of basic amenities has made the area a ghost environment. Portable drinking water in ruins, roads are now very bad, our schools (primary and secondary) are now in deplorable and dilapidated condition. No NEPA light in the area . The question now is: where are the 13 percent oil derivation monies? Why do we not have NEPA lights in the Imo Oil producing areas for some years? This is in spite of the fact that Imo witnessed the longest run of oil money in this regime. In other words, the state has amassed very huge oil and gas revenues, much more than any period since the history of Imo State. What is happening in the Imo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ISOPADEC) and the 27 LGA of Imo State under the Uzodinmas government readily comes to mind as one of the several examples of colossal looting of the Imo treasury.

A huge con game is taking place in the 27 LGA of Imo state. The quantity and quality of life for the vast majority of Imo people in the graaroot of the state vis-a-vis the basic means of living have drastically plummeted. This, it must be stressed, is due to the unprecedented looting of local government funds and looting of the 13 percent oil monies of the Imo Oil producing areas. Where are the local roads, health care centres, modern schools and markets for the various LGAs in the state? Where are the projects to speed up development in the grass root of the state? Where are the billions of naira for Imo LGAs? They exist on paper.

In the past, LGA funds in Imo State was used to develop certain vital social services in the grass root like education, health care and key investments on infrastructures like water, electricity, roads, industries, etc, all which severally and collectively positively impacted on the living standard of the ordinary working masses in the grassroot areas .In sharp contrast, the current Uzodinmas government, acting under the dictates and or in concert with imperialism has completely jettisoned the idea of government using local government funds and resources to better the lots of the local councils Instead, it has adopted a whole scale capitalist, neo-liberal strategy of looting of council funds. In effect, a permanent bazaar society has crystallised with the thieving cabals in the Imo corridors of power looting the resources and wealth of Imo councils leaving the overwhelming majority in the LGAs to provide houses, water, electricity, education, health care, etc, on their own, of course, strictly in accordance to the size of their pockets which is the only vocabulary understood and acceptable in the market jungle. Today, over 70% of Imolites at the grassroot areas are living below the poverty line. Not having elected council government in Imo state for four years is a big failure of the governor Hope Uzodinmas administration. Who will save Imo? Time shall tell.

Kenneth Uwadi lives in Mmahu-Egbema, Imo State, Nigeria and can be reached via 08037982714 .
26.10.2023 LISTEN

Some people say the government of Imo state will soon arrest me for criticizing them. I have received several emails, text messages, and calls. Those things don't scare me. One of the fundamental elements of democracy is the right to free speech without having others trample on your opinion. I will not be intimidated by such talk .

I am from Ohaji/Egbema LGA. My LGA is oil-rich . Its headquarter is in Mmahu-Egbema. I am also from Mmahu-Egbema. Arresting me on account of me criticizing the austerity policies of the government of my state amounts to breaching Section 22 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution which allows all citizens open-power of expression and freedom of commenting on both Local, State and National governments issues. It also violates international norms on freedom of expression. The Nigerian constitution stated that the duty of every citizen is to make positive and useful contributions to the advancement, progress and well-being of the community where he resides. The right to freedom of expression is recognized as a human right under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and recognized in international human rights law of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

I will continue to say No to the America -wonder taking place in our LGAs that is negatively affecting the lives of the Imo masses. What is bad is bad irrespective of who is doing it, your man or our man. Until we begin to stand up for a true democracy Imo will not see light.

Ohaji/Egbema LGA alone from January 2020 to December 2020 (12 months)got from the Federal government the sum of N1,901,804,579.59( One billion nine hundred and one million eight hundred and four thousand five hundred and seventy nine naira fifty nine kobo ). By monthly breakdown from January 2020 to December 2020, Ohaji /Egbema got from FG the following: January 2020 = N175,594,829.50,February 2020= N162,670,773.27,March 2020=N145,725,348.30,April 2020=N165,817,370.39,May 2020=N153,423,398.96,June 2020=N139,521,629.07,July 2020= N168,366,546.62,August 2020=N172,799,580.57,September 2020=N170,807,592.36,October 2020=N159,845,391.44,November 2020=N143,471,646.04,December 2020=N143,760,473.07.

Where are the monies? What is the actual amount sent to Ohaji/Egbema SOLAD by the Imo State government? I want to know where Ohaji/Egbema allocations from FG ended up. How much is Ohaji/Egbema staff strength? How much is the staff salaries? Where has the surplus gone? What is the remuneration of Paramount rulers of Ohaji/Egbema .Where are the local roads, health care centers, modern schools and markets for Ohaji/Egbema? Where are the projects to speed up development? Where are the billions of naira for Ohaji /Egbema? Where is NEPA light?

A visit to Ohaji/Egbema in Imo State will confirm that lack of basic amenities has made the area a ghost environment. Portable drinking water are all spoiled, roads are now very bad, our schools (primary and secondary) are now in deplorable and dilapidated condition. No cottage industry, no agricultural development. Yet huge allocations were allocated for the LGA by the federal ministry of finance (Federal Account Allocation Committee).

The N1.9 billion naira I mentioned is only allocation for the year 2020.Where are the other billions that came to Ohaji/Egbema LGA in 2021, 2022 and in 2023 in my records? Where are the monies for my LGA? I challenge the Imo State government by virtue of the FOI Acts to make public the actual monthly allocations paid to the SOLAD of Ohaji /Egbema LGA so that we can make comparisons with that of FG at our disposal. The FOI Act guarantees access to data held by the state.

I say No to All Austerity Policies on the working and poor people of my LGA. For four years, the Uzodinmas government has been appointing people into the local government councils without elections. This is undemocratic and fraudulent. Moreover, funds and revenues of local governments are being diverted for pecuniary interests of the state government without the people being able to decide how funds allocated to the local councils are to be spent. This has made the local councils and the services they provide to be in decrepit conditions. Most local and intra-township roads are in terrible condition, while most primary healthcare facilities are hardly working, and those working are doing so on a skeletal basis.

As against the past situation where local councils provided some educational supports like giving out educational materials such as textbooks, note books, chalk, etc., to schools, most of the schools in the state lack these basic supports.

The question remains, will Ohaji/Egbema LGA vote for Governor Hope Uzodinma on the 11th of November 2023? Will Imo re-elect the man who has denied them democracy at the grassroot for another four years?

From January 2020 to December 2020 Imo state received N9,096,486,580.07 (Nine billion, ninety six million four hundred and eighty six thousand five hundred and eighty naira seven kobo) as 13 percent oil derivation funds for development of the oil communities in Imo State. By monthly breakdown from January 2020 to December 2020,the Oil areas of Imo state got from FG as 13 percent Oil derivation funds the following: January 2020 = N1,030,777,266.01,February 2020=N 828,793,898.64,March 2020= N866,158,974.86,April 2020= N1,052,650,621.98,May 2020= N716,210,758.63,June 2020=N 698,159,661.48,July 2020= N487,497,069.49,August 2020= N999,688,363.39,September 2020=N755,551,659.03,October 2020=N 500,441,708.72,November 2020=N 476,359,055.71,December 2020= N684,197,542.13. This amount is only for the year 2020.What about the billions that came in for the year 2021, 2022 and 2023 in my records? Are we in Ohaji Egbema going to vote for Governor Hope Uzodinma in November? Only time will tell.

-Kenneth Uwadi lives in Mmahu-Egbema, Ohaji/Egbema LGA and can be reached via 08037982714
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), Shai-Osudoku District, has engaged with residents of Oyarifa and Teiman in the Greater Accra Region to address their concerns on its newly introduced Mobile App.

The app, with the catchphrase ECG goes cashless, allows customers to easily transact business online using Mobile Money, Visa or Mastercard.

The engagement also forms part of the company's ongoing efforts to address teething challenges encountered by identified communities in using the app.

The discussion was led by the District Manager, Mr David Amemasor, and the Regional Marketing Officer for Accra East Region, Mr Richard Akumey.

Mr Amemasor said the ECG, being a utility service provider, was committed to customer satisfaction through its corporate responsibility and sound operation policies.

The cashless system, which offered a lot of convenience to clients, had come to stay, he said and urged customers to download the Mobile App to access ECG services and pay online using their phones.

He said the company prioritised such engagements to resolve emerging concerns and would continue to engage with clients to bring those concerns to the barest minimum in a win-win situation.

At different forums in the two communities, participants complained about payment for credit not reflecting on their meters, difficulty in using the new app, delays in the resolution of complaints, and periodic fluctuation in power and power surges, which destroyed their gadgets.

Others included postpaid meter users being shortchanged, and claims of being frustrated following complaints of faulty meters.

Mr Amemasor, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the challenges were not beyond resolution, adding that teething challenges came with every new enterprise, which could largely be resolved.

On the issue of alleged delays in complaints resolution, he explained that sometimes customers reported to the wrong office, which unnecessarily delayed the resolution processes.

The new cashless system, he said, was a convenient means of paying bills and reporting all complaints for resolution.

Before its rollout, the ECG carried out sensitisation programmes on television, radio, through public address systems, and floats among others, which would continue till customers became conversant with the new model.

Assembly Members were engaged to complement efforts to broaden the scope of work in the sensitisation programmes.

The ECG App was user-friendly and fashioned out in the features of accessing mobile money, Mr Amemasor said and encouraged all customers to get acquainted with it.

ECG is fully prepared and there is no turning back to conveniently serve our cherished customers.

Mr Akumey, on his part, said the office would continue to prioritise the needs of customers with an open-door policy.

A participant and a resident of Oyarifa, Mr Evans Okantey, appealed to the ECG to fashion out modalities to provide viable alternatives.

GNA
Miss Lydia Adukwei, 47, a waakye seller involved in yesterday's road crash at Oko Dan in the La Municipality of the Greater Accra Region, is to undergo leg surgery at the 37 Military Hospital.

One person has been confirmed dead after a Kia truck loaded with beer crashed into a New Patriotic Party (NPP) office at Oko Dan.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, October 24, 2023. also left Adukwei critically injured.

According to eyewitnesses, the driver lost control of the vehicle due to a brake pad malfunction, leading to the unfortunate incident.

When the Ghana News Agency visited the family of the injured, her aunty who only gave her name as Grace, said Lydia was first admitted at the Police Hospital, but later referred to the 37 Military Hospital for further medical attention.

GNA
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The tempo of political activities has been high in Imo State following the release of the time-table for the 2023 governorship elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).The governorship election is slated for 11th November 2023. Political parties have organized primaries and selected their candidates. The APC has presented Governor Hope Uzodinma for re-election. In his re-election campaign speech recently, the governor jumped up, boxed in and talked the talk' about how he has made Imo State an El Dorado.

El Dorado? Should he claim El Dorado due to the political teaching jobs that he released two days ago? Is he claiming El dorado for announcing names of some persons for teaching jobs a few weeks before the governorship election in the state? I still remember Ohakim ten thousand jobs. Any job released a few days before the governorship election is no job.

Should Uzodinma claim El Dorado when he did not conduct Local government elections for 4 years? What manner of El Dorado when he had no plans for Imo in terms of provision of gainful employment?

Imo State unemployment rate is high. Today, the unemployment situation is bad for all age grades but, at 64%, it is worse for the youths in particular. Uzodinma is culpable for the failure to create decent job opportunities despite huge resources at his disposal. This is because he subscribed to the same anti-poor neo-liberal capitalist looting policies of the last administration in Imo State. His government placed a greater premium on the private accumulation of capital and profit as against adequate investment in social services. His governments elitist and profit-first policies were top-down, brutal, exploitative, corrupt and fundamentally anti-people.

What manner of political teaching job is Uzodinma creating in a few weeks to the governorship election? LGA elections which could have created jobs for the youths were not conducted. Why must he use SOLAD in Imo for 4 years? Such is the abysmal fate of working masses and youths in Imo despite the huge reserve of oil wealth and high monthly allocations . The state is beset with poor infrastructure and extreme backwardness with millions of the poor and the unemployed living in excruciating poverty amidst huge resources. What solutions is the government currently advancing in resolving the jobs question in the state?

One nightmare that is confronting youths in the state is the challenge of getting a job . Instead of giving our youths laptops and political jobs, our government would have provided real and productive jobs. Thousands of Imolites are willing to work in Imo but are not employed. Unemployment is the number one issue in the state today. Imo people need jobs not fake jobs. That is how they can put food on the table. Every day, thousands of our unemployed brothers and sisters, scan the pages of newspapers and websites for job advertisements. I ask again, why did Uzodinma not create jobs when he resumed as governor?. Why should he create a teaching job on paper few days to the governorship election ?

The education sector in Imo is completely underfunded as dry laboratories; congested classrooms; poor conditions of learning in schools; are the order of the day. The handwriting on the wall today is clear that the Uzodinmas government toed the path of austerity policies. Schools in Imo today cannot afford to provide ordinary chalks and printed examination questions for its schools. The governments deliberately underfunded public schools in Imo and encouraged private schools to thrive. Public resources that were in the past budgeted for social amenities have now become fair games for treasury looters and corrupt politicians. Businessmen who yearly spend billions on political campaigns are in turn compensated through government policies, while politicians equally compensate themselves with large chunks of annual budget, earmarked for their emolument and looting. The result of government policy of underfunding of schools in Imo is the tragic conditions on our campuses today. From the bed-bug infested mattresses at the prestigious Imo State University Teaching Hospital Hostels in Orlu and the poor health infrastructure and official negligence, to the decayed hostel facilities and dirty toilets and bathrooms at University of Agriculture Umuagwo, things are so bad for Imo students nowadays. It is unfortunate that the student bodies we have in Imo are not up to the task as they have completely turned into instruments in the hands of the State. Instead they have engaged in one scandal upon another.Who will save Imo State? Time will tell .

-Kenneth Uwadi writes from Mmahu-Egbema, Imo State and can be reached via 08037982714
Studies of the practice of democratic governance throughout history have discovered three conditions for a democracy to flourish and endure. The first is the presence of strong institutions; second is a citizenry body educated on the principles of democracy; third is the existence of high-quality leadership. However, in challenging moments, the third condition is the most important and can compensate for the failing of the other two.

This is why it is often in the period of crisis that the caliber of leadership a nation possesses is uncovered. Some leaders rise to the occasion, uniting their countries in the face of adversity, while others falter, perpetuating divisions and exacerbating the disaster; Nana Akuffo Addo ranks high in the latter.

Since his election to the presidency of Ghana, Akufo-Addos name has become synonymous with several awful incidents. He is on record to have plagiarized his inaugural speech. He is known as the mother serpent of corruption (Martin Amidu). His government has borrowed more moneyunder dubious pretensesthan all previous administrations combined but has no meaningful national development project to show for it.

The Presidents one district one dam (1D1F) initiative is a spectacular disaster, for its failure to materialize. His free senior high school policy has ruined the countrys proud education system. His Jubilee House  with 1,048 staff at the beginning of this year  is now derided by some in the media with the well-deserved pun Julorbi House (literally a den of thieves). He has successfully run a healthy national economy he inherited aground.

In brief, President Akufo Addo has been the greatest failure in the history of Ghana.

But none of these descriptions is more revealing of the nature of the man than his heart- wrenching remarks to victims of the flood disaster caused by the spillage of the Akosombo and Kpong dams. Injecting political polemics into his remarks to a people rendered homeless and helpless overnight by an act of a government agency was heartless. Frankly speaking, the President is insensitive and shameless! Like a petulant child dragged to a sacred place against his will, he could not temper his inner vindictiveness in the presence of people who, in his mind, disagree with him.

First and foremost, the President's response was slow and lacked the urgency demanded by the crisis. His speech to the victims of the tragedy about their voting patterns was reckless, pathetic, and divisive. Instead of declaring a state of emergency and rallying the nation for moral and material support for the flood victims, the President told the helpless citizens in the North Tongu district of the Volta Region that if it was a question of counting who voted for him and who did not, he would not have visited the disaster area because they did not vote for him.

In this moment, the president should have been the sympathizer-in-chief (president for all), consoling families for the loss of property and sources of livelihood, and giving them hope, rather than his display of gross insensitivity. The president missed an opportunity of using the crisis as a teachable moment to draw attention to the harmful economic and ecological impacts that communities in the Lower Volta River basin continue to bear to enable the continued production of the nation's hydropower. Instead, he rubbed salt into their wounds with insults.

Completed in 1965, the Akosombo dam created the largest man-made lake in the world, covering a surface area of about 8,500 km and holding roughly 148 km of water at maximum capacity. Together the Akosombo and Kpong dams produce about 1,200 MW at full range. The relative progress of the country would not have been realized without the construction of these dams. But sadly, the local-national economic disparity from this strategic national resource is outrageous. Such could have been the focus of the presidents remarks, instead of his vindictiveness.

In essence, Akufo Addos statement, as Albert Einstein would put it, is quite revealing of a man who has striven in vain to attain an equilibrium within himself and has more or less lost hope of succeeding. Indeed, the president has lost hope of accomplishing anything worthy for the past seven years in office and has failed spectacularly to attain a semblance of balance within himself.

Ghana deserves high-quality leadership. A leadership that can provide the special vision needed to anchor the democratic institutions and a citizenry soaked in civic virtue for the democratic state to hold.

President John Mahamas demonstration of grace, magnanimity, empathy for his fellow Ghanaians and, above all, unity during and after his presidency are too familiar and fresh in the minds of Ghanaians to require evoking here as proof. Clearly, come 2024, a democrat, a peacemaker, a visionary, an educator, a crisis manager, John Dramani Mahanama, aka Pericles, would be a lone candidate.

Source:

NDC USA Chapter Communications Bereau

Communication Officer

Hajia Rukaya Abubakari

Acknowledgment to:

Chairman of communication and Research Committee and writter

Dr. Mark Agana- writer

All Communications and Research Committee Members

NDC USA Chapter.
The Vodza Ecotourism Initiative (VEI) is deeply concerned about the consequences of the recent spillage of the Akosombo Dam and its collateral effects on communities of Vodza, Keta, North, South, and Central Tongu, as well as other riverine communities surrounding the Keta Basin.

This years spillage continues to have a significant impact on the lives and livelihoods of the people in these towns and communities.

Consequently, VEI, an organisation committed to preserving the ecology, cultural heritage and improving the livelihoods in the Vodza-Keta area, wishes to draw attention to the following issues.

Humanitarian Concerns: The homes of many communities along the Volta River and the Keta Basin have been destroyed, livelihoods disrupted, and more than 10,000 residents completely displaced. We acknowledge the hardships faced by these communities and call for support during this challenging time.

Environmental Impact: The continuing release of water from the Akosombo Dam, although necessary, continues to cause severe flooding in several towns and in some cases has submerged entire communities along the Volta River, leading to extensive damage to farmlands, habitats, and wildlife. This disruption of nature has long-term consequences for both flora and fauna in the area.

Cultural Heritage: The spillage continues to adversely impact cultural and historical sites, endangering the preservation of traditional practices and heritage in the region. It is essential to protect these aspects of the local identity for future generations and research purposes.

VEI encourages all stakeholders, including the Volta River Authority (VRA), NADMO and the Ghanaian government, to take immediate action to mitigate the negative effects of the Akosombo spillage. This includes providing relief and support to affected communities  in cash, kind, and volunteers, as well as implementing sustainable strategies for managing the flow of the Volta River.

VEI is dedicated to working collaboratively with local authorities, environmental groups, on governmental and international organisations as well as the affected communities to find long- term solutions that balance the demands of energy production with the preservation of the environment, cultural heritage, and the well-being of the people of the Volta Region and Ghana in general.

Source: Vodza Ecotourism Initiative
Ghana has reiterated the call for a reformed United Nations (UN), especially of the Security Council, as set out in Africa's common position on UN reforms, based on the Ezulwini Consensus.

The Ezulwini Consensus is a position on international relations and reform of the UN, agreed by the African Union.

While much had been achieved since its founding and, indeed, many of its Member States credit their very existence to the UN, it could also be said that it had remained an organisation of unequal, Madam Botchwey, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has said,

She, therefore, reiterated Ghana's call for a reformed UN, especially of the Security Council, to ensure inclusiveness and support for each member state in solving challenges.

Madam Botchwey made the call on Tuesday in her keynote address at the 78th UN Day Flag raising Parade at the Forecourt of the State House in Accra.

The event was on the theme: Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress and Sustainability for All.

Ghana's flag was hoisted by the Minister, while that of the UN was hoisted by Mr Charles Abani, the UN Resident Coordinator in Ghana.

The Day, celebrated every year on October 24, offers the opportunity to amplify the UN's common agenda and reaffirm the purposes and principles of its Charter that has guided Member States over the past 78 years.

Madam Botchwey said it was important for stakeholders to remind themselves that increased cooperation and collaboration was the way to confront their challenges.

This can be done by ensuring that we work for peace and prosperity while making use of technological innovation for progress and sustainability. The need for each one to play their part cannot be overemphasized, she stated.

Madam Botchwey said President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo continued to show commitment to the charge of renewed and inclusive multilateralism at the UN Security Council level, where he advocated representativeness of the Council, comprehensive and broad-based preventive diplomacy as well as global level multilateralism with regional partnerships.

Collectively, it could and must take measures that ensure its actions yield the desired outcomes.

It is only then that we can be propelled towards a future marked by equitable progress, harmonious coexistence, and the preservation of our planet for generations to come.

She said nations were commemorating the 78th UN Anniversary at a time when the world was at the edge of a precipice, where Member States had barely bounced back from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Member states are making strenuous efforts to navigate economic difficulties brought about by the Russia/Ukraine war, various natural and human-caused disasters in many parts of the world.

These include devastating floods, earthquakes, forest fires, political instability, conflict, and terrorism, which had displaced communities as well as destroyed their livelihoods and normal ways of life.

Against the backdrop of those global challenges, the UN had played, and continued to play a pivotal role in addressing those challenges, Madam Botchwey said.

Like a chain, she said the UN was as strong as its weakest member, which made it imperative to ensure that even the smallest member state was supported to tackle the challenges of inequality, climate change, gender equality, and human rights, among others.

She said with the ongoing global turmoil, heightened by unprecedented connectivity and interdependence among nations, the concepts of peace, prosperity, progress, and sustainability took on a renewed significance.

She highlighted the need for Member States to strive for peace and resolve conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue.

Mr Charles Abani, on his part, said the UN would continue to support Ghana's electoral process to promote inclusive, transparent, and credible elections that reflected the will of the people to contribute to peace and stability in the country.

In the midst of regional challenges to democracy, there was the need for stakeholders to pay attention to the moment when Ghanaians would once again go to the polls in December 2024, he noted.

Mr King George Amoabeng of the Ghana United Nations Students Association (GUNSA) called for commitment by the UN to provide the youth with the tools that would make their voice heard.

GNA
Professor Lord Mensah, a senior lecturer at the University of Ghana, has opined on calls for government to reduce its expenditure due to the economic crisis.

He however noted that it would be suicidal for government to suspend its flagship programmes.

One of the primary programs mentioned by Professor Mensah was Agenda 111 hospital project, an initiative aimed at constructing 111 district and regional hospitals across the country.

In an interview with NEAT FM's Ghana Montie morning show, Prof. Mensah stated, "This government's flagship programs are causing them, and it will be difficult for them to reduce their expenditure.

There are things they've started and can't stop. That will be a political suicide."

He emphasised, "A program like Agenda 111, there is no way the government can put that on hold."

https://fb.watch/nW858Hz4YR/
The police must take full charge of all the security processes that concern the 4th November 2023 primaries of the governing New Patriotic Party's presidential primaries, the Chairman of the Presidential Election Committee for the NPP, Prof Mike Oquaye, has urged during a meeting with Inspector General of Police George Akuffo Dampare ahead of the election.

We are authorising you to take absolute control of all the processes that you regulate during normal elections in this republic", he told the police chief.

The former Speaker of Parliament said: "We have made a number of guidelines which are a matter of common consent and we have worked out the dynamics in such a way that we are working together and we are saying this to assure you that the regulations that the candidates have all signed are going to be the blueprint of the process, and anyone who disregards this should be dealt with and we want to establish that this country is a lawful nation".

The IGP, for his part, assured the NPP that "we are going to give you an overdose of security and it will be excellent and awesome and all we require from you is your support to ensure that the police will do their work".

Also at the meeting was the Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations at the Electoral Commission, Mr Samuel Tetteh, who said: We know that this is an important election, not only for the NPP but also for the EC and the country as a whole, and we need to prepare adequately to make sure that the elections are conducted successfully and so far the engagements gone well and we expecting a successful election on November 4 and we are not leaving any stone unturned.

-classfmonline
Road contractors have denied any of them paid a bribe before they were given a government road contract.

Roads and Highways Minister Kwasi Amoako-Attah recently asked the Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to launch a probe into a claim by former GIMPA rector Stephen Adei that officials at the ministry demanded a bribe of one million before awarding road contracts.

"Road contracts will be given to you, provided you pay 1 million upfront," Prof Adei alleged in a recent interview with Accra-based TV3 on Friday, 20 October 2023.

A statement from the ministry said: These allegations are surprising at the least because the processes leading to the award of road contracts are open, transparent, competitive and by the law.

"Given that the alleged conduct borders on the commission of a crime against the Republic, the Minister of Roads and Highway, Kwasi Amoako-Attah, has today, 23rd October 2023, requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to fully investigate the allegations", the ministry's statement said.

The ministry said it is willing to cooperate fully and support EOCO in the conduct of its investigation.

Subsequently, the road contractors issued a statement denying any such occurrence.

The statement, endorsed by 1st Sky Ltd, Maripoma Ent Ltd, Justimoh Construction Ltd, Resource Access Ltd, Kasmo Co Ltd, Oswald Investment Ltd, Ussuya Gh Ltd., Volta Impex Ltd, and Limerica Gh Ltd, among others, said: We have followed with keen interest discussions in the media space in respect of an allegation made by Professor Stephen Adei, a former Rector of GIMPA, to the effect that some contractors make upfront payments of upfront payments of GH1 million before the award of road contracts.

We have also read a press statement from the Ministry of Roads and Highways indicating that the Minister has requested the Executive Director of the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) to investigate the allegation.

We wish to state clearly that none of us has had any such experience. Road contracts go through a process until the award is given".

The process is well known and transparent and consequently makes it very difficult for corrupt practices to prevail in the allocation of road contracts".

We wish to allay the concerns of Professor Adei and the general public and emphatically state that no such bribes are paid for road contracts in Ghana, they added.

-classfmonline
In the 1970s and 1980s, pine trees growing in various forestry plantations in South Africa's Western Cape province began to die in patches. These trees succumbed to a mysterious root disease and the patches expanded gradually. Spontaneous regrowth of seedlings in the patches died dramatically.

As in many other true crime dramas, the finger was initially pointed at the most likely suspect: the root-infecting Phytophthora cinnamomi . Its name  plant (phyto) destroyer (phthora)  reveals its power to cause harm; the pathogen is known to cause disease in almost 5,000 different plants.

After further investigation and the collection of many samples, tree pathologists shifted the blame onto the fungus Leptographium serpens (now known as Leptographium alacre). This fungus is well known to be transported by insects and was previously only known in Europe. It was visually identified from the roots of the dying trees. Now it was the prime suspect.

Doubts lingered, though. Most Leptographium species are not known to act as primary disease agents and so L. serpens was most likely not able to cause the disease. Other fungi were also found within the roots of the diseased trees but could not be identified at the time due to a lack of more advanced techniques.

Knowing that the then-available technologies could not provide the complete answer to this mystery, the pathologists took more samples from the dead and dying pine trees, and stored them carefully. The hope was that one day they would have a better idea of the cause of this disease outbreak.

Fast forward to 2023 and a new character enters the mystery: DNA sequencing. This modern technology did what wasn't possible a few decades ago, allowing our team of molecular mycologists to identify the real culprit .

This tale is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of scientific inquiry. It reinforces the idea that, in the pursuit of knowledge, no stone should be left unturned and no assumption should be taken for granted. Through a blend of perseverance, technology, and a touch of serendipity, it was possible to solve a decades-old mystery.

Tracking a killer

Back in the 1980s the samples were stored in the culture collection of the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute at the University of Pretoria. In 2020, the samples were revived by a team that included ourselves and several others who recently published a paper on the topic.

We sequenced the samples' DNA to reveal their unique genetic code. By comparing this code against genetic databases, it was possible to figure out exactly what was causing the tree disease. And so, more than four decades after the disease was first described, the pathogen was finally identified as Rhizina undulata. L. serpens, the long time primary suspect, was finally exonerated.

Rhizina undulata is well known to cause tree disease and death, mainly in Europe. This fungus is known colloquially as the coffee fire fungus because the intense heat caused by fires made by campers in a forest to brew coffee activates its dormant spores. This allows it to colonise the roots of conifers, including pines. R. undulata is also well known in South Africa, where it kills many pines in the aftermath of forest fire and when trees are felled to clear a plantation.

What remains a mystery, however, is the trigger that activated this fungus in the Western Cape plantations. No fires were known to have occurred during the relevant time period.

One potential clue to the trigger may lie in the soil in which these trees were planted. Known as Table Mountain sandstone, this soil is sandy and acidic. Acidic soil has been shown in the laboratory to encourage R. undulata growth. This naturally occurring acidity may have been the nudge the pathogen needed to infect the pine trees. It is also possible that the fungus was activated by heat radiating from the quartz rocks that are common in the areas in which the dying trees were planted.

It pays to be patient

In the years since the mysterious Western Cape outbreak, R. undulata has become well known to foresters in pine plantations in other parts of South Africa and has done great damage to newly planted trees after fires. These fires can be accidental or due to what is known as slash-burning after trees are harvested.

Identifying R. undulata as the culprit in those (no longer active) Western Cape plantations means scientists have more data that might help to better understand the biology of the fungus  which may lead to better control strategies in the future.

Our work is also a testament to the timeliness of scientific progress and the importance of patience. This story could only be fully unravelled when more advanced techniques were developed. It shows the power of modern technologies to solve historical problems. This underlines the need for continued investment into research and the development of new tools, both in South Africa and worldwide.

Our study also strongly advocates for the preservation of diverse fungal cultures for extended periods of time, regardless of their perceived importance at the time they are collected. The lack of accessible culture collections for lesser-known fungi, in South Africa and internationally, highlights the need for innovative approaches to safeguard these invaluable resources. This shift could revolutionise the study of microbes, opening new avenues beyond traditional species descriptions.

Andi Wilson receives funding from the National Research Foundation through a Scarce Skills Postdoctoral Fellowship.

Brenda Wingfield receives funding from South African Department of Science and Innovation. DSI-NRF SARChI chair in Fungal Genomics

Michael John Wingfield has previously received Grant funding from the South African National Research Foundation and the Department of Science and Innovation as the director of the DSI/NRF Center of Excellence in Tree Health Biotechnology

By Andi Wilson, Postdoctoral fellow, University of Pretoria And

Brenda Wingfield, Previous Vice President of the Academy of Science of South Africa and DSI-NRF SARChI chair in Fungal Genomics, Professor in Genetics, University of Pretoria, University of Pretoria And

Michael John Wingfield, Professor, Advisor to the Executive, University of Pretoria, University of Pretoria
World university rankings are released towards the end of each year. Institutions globally scramble to see how they have fared. Have they risen or fallen? If so, by how much and in which rankings? Have they maintained their position in an increasingly competitive global higher education landscape?

There have been some improvements in African universities' performances. But the continent's institutions still don't feature prominently towards the top of the rankings. In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024 , for instance, South Africa's University of Cape Town is top for the continent, at 167th place. It is followed by three other South African institutions: Stellenbosch University and the University of the Witwatersrand, which sit between 301 and 350, and the University of Johannesburg between 401 and 500.

The first sub-Saharan non-South African institution, Ghana's University of Cape Coast, is in the group 601-800. Uganda's Makerere University, placed between 801 and 1,000, is the top in east Africa.

The value, methodologies and implications of world university rankings are much debated . Several institutions, such as the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands, have even withdrawn their participation from some rankings . They are critical of the focus on competition and scores rather than on partnerships and open science.

We are especially interested in a recent addition to the rankings landscape: scoring for sustainability and positive societal impact. The THE Impact Rankings , for example, assess universities' performance against the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) . The QS Sustainability ranking includes environmental and social impact dimensions.

As academics working in the field of social innovation and sustainable development, we welcome this attention to impact and sustainability. Sustainable development is a critical concern for universities globally. It drives institutions' research and innovation. It matters to students. It is central in teaching and learning. It also underpins universities' wider role and activities in communities, societies and economies.

Responding to the challenge of sustainable development is an especially pressing concern for African universities.

A mandate and a mission

African universities work in conditions of significant need. Many African economies have grown rapidly in recent times , but sustainable development challenges remain. These include poverty and inequalities in gender, health, education and opportunities. Conflict over resources and the effects of climate change are also major challenges.

Read more: Technology and sustainable development: a hamlet in rural South Africa shows how one can power the other

Some African universities were established with the task of addressing these challenges, and to drive development and prosperity.

So it is very welcome that several African universities place well in some of these new impact rankings. Some are even world leaders in addressing various SDGs.

For example, South Africa's University of Johannesburg ranks 46th in the THE Impact Rankings 2023. It is first globally for its work to address SDG 1 (No Poverty) . It has achieved this through initiatives like its Missing Middle Fund , which benefits over 60% of the university's students. It also invests heavily in research centres, institutes and chairs that focus on poverty issues. It supports them to do research that has a direct impact on local communities and policy development.

Ghana's Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), meanwhile, scores top for its contribution to SDG 4 (Quality Education) . The institution's students benefit from excellent teaching, complemented by investments in up-to-date infrastructure, ICT and e-learning resources. It provides numerous scholarships and runs programmes like Support One Needy Student with One Laptop .

Read more: Sustainable development goals are in reach if African universities work together

Another positive trend for African universities in impact rankings is that they are increasingly working together and with partners globally. For instance, Makerere University and the Bertha Centre for Social Innovation at the University of Cape Town are partners within the Social Innovation in Health Initiative . This aims to advance social innovation in health (SDG3 - Good Health and Wellbeing) across the continent and other low- and middle-income countries.

These positive stories and growing examples of African leadership are worth celebrating. And even more may be possible.

Filling the gaps

Further research is needed to understand how African universities are working towards sustainable development and what more they can do. This might reveal ways to enhance existing work and share best practice.

Universities can make it possible to find solutions to sustainable development challenges. They generate knowledge and can influence policy making and practice. They can develop innovative solutions themselves. As major employers, procurers, and resource users they can have positive (and negative) effects through their operations.

Research on the roles of universities in their communities, including and beyond teaching and research, has focused on the global north. Universities in the global south (and particularly those in Africa) have often been overlooked. This relatively limited attention may reflect wider inequalities in global knowledge production, and negative perceptions of the work African universities do.

We want to address these gaps. So we've launched a new international, multi-institution and interdisciplinary research project.  African universities as enablers of social innovation and sustainable development  is funded by the Worldwide Universities Network . It brings together academics from the universities of Cape Town, Sheffield, Ghana, Leeds, Pretoria and York, as well as Makerere University.

The project will run for the next 12 months. We will use a social innovation perspective to investigate how African universities are contributing to achieving the UN SDGs. We hope this project will build a community of scholars working on the topic in and outside Africa, and provide academic and practical insights.

The research will be pursued in collaboration with the WUN Global Higher Education and Research (GHEAR) network which also provided funding for the project and all authors.

Nothing to disclose.

David Littlewood receives funding from: Worldwide Universities Network.

Nothing to disclose

Bob Doherty, Phyllis Awor, Ralph Hamann, and Teddy Ossei Kwakye do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

By Annika Surmeier, Senior Lecturer, Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town, University of Cape Town And

Alex Bignotti, Senior Lecturer in Social Entrepreneurship, University of Pretoria And

Bob Doherty, Professor of Marketing and Chair of Agrifood, University of York And

David Littlewood, Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management, University of Sheffield And

Diane Holt, Chair in Entrepreneurship, Leeds University Business School, University of Leeds And

Phyllis Awor, Lecturer in Public Health, Makerere University And

Ralph Hamann, Professor, University of Cape Town And

Teddy Ossei Kwakye, Senior Lecturer in Accounting, University of Ghana
The 78th anniversary of the United Nations' founding was marked by a resounding affirmation of Ghana's dedication to the principles of multilateralism and global cooperation.

At a flag-raising ceremony at the State House on Tuesday, government officials, diplomats, UN representatives and distinguished guests gathered to reiterate their commitment to fostering a better world.

In an address, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, acknowledged the challenges countries were facing in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic difficulties spurred by the Russia-Ukraine war and various natural and man-made disasters that have disrupted communities and livelihoods.

She underscored the pivotal role of the United Nations in addressing these challenges and emphasised the importance of ensuring that even the smallest member state is equipped to tackle the challenges of our time.

She stressed the need for a reformed UN, particularly the Security Council, in accordance with the Ezulwini Consensus, an Africa-wide position on UN reform.

The Minister highlighted the necessity of resolving conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue, underpinning prosperity not just in economic terms but in overall human well-being.

She highlighted Ghana's current role on the UN Security Council, advocacy for reforms and climate prosperity plan. The Minister urged increased cooperation to tackle pressing challenges.

UN Resident Coordinator, Mr Charles Abani, commended Ghana's leadership and commitment to the UN's ideals. He noted Ghana's contributions through the Accra Initiative and the upcoming hosting of a UN peacekeeping conference.

Mr Abani outlined the focus areas of the new UN-Ghana cooperation framework, including inclusive economic transformation, equitable access to services and durable peace. He emphasised the need to leave no one behind.

The annual event highlights Ghana's longstanding support for the United Nations and spirit of global cooperation as it marks 78 years since the UN's establishment.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The West has no business sending missionaries to Nigeria; they cant help us; they have lost ChristianitysubstantiallyThey are the ones who need us. We will give (the erring West) pastoral helpAfrica is now the historical custodian of (true) Christianity.--Bishop Professor Dapo Asaju, former Vice Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State, Nigeria.

As July of 2022 closed, Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, DCLM, was also closing a chapter that, according to some theologians, made his ministry somehow insular and centripetal, even if his messages, as we all know, have always been universal. At an event in Lagos, Nigerias economic hub, Kumuyi drew our attention to a new point in his evangelical trajectory, when he formally launched the initiative he christened Global Crusade with Kumuyi, GCK. Born in his denomination, GCK is inclusive and centrifugal; its an open body, with wide arms stretched to receive all worldwide, irrespective of your faith, class, culture or country.

The clerics global outreach had started in Abuja, Nigerias capital in 2021. But observers claimed its structural garb appeared to have become tame and lame as a vehicle designed to capture the wider vision he has been unmasking. Previously the respected evangelist had informally undertaken missions outside Nigeria to preach the Gospel of Christ. However, they were all under the shadow of DCLM. Critics said this seemed to limit the churchman, giving the unintended impression that his crusades were a closed shop. So, there had been a troubling thinking that these gatherings were planned exclusively for his denominational flock.

This pedestrian perception always threatened to project into restrictive realities, leading many to the imagery of the Procrustean bed: everybody, short, tall, bulgy or sparse of flesh, must lie in the Deeper Life bed: they must be squeezed to fit into it. The charge was that there seemed to be no sensitivity to distinct individual and spiritual tastes of denominational yearnings. All were, willy-nilly, served the same menu by Kumuyi. In my mind, these conclusions were gravely unfair to the preacher and his calling, which, like that of Jesus Christ and of His early followers, is without frontiers.

Whether to address these concerns or not, Pastor Kumuyi now says hes presenting an international platform on which he will stand to reach the whole world. By the way, his sermons have always been meant for the whole humanity. Yet, to fulfil all righteousness, this GCK rostrum, he says, wont be a DCLM affair; nor is it Nigerian; it is going to be borderless; it will be a construction God is bringing all the movements of His Universal Church to put together this end time of mans history. By Kumuyis own reckoning, GCK is the new cauldron God will employ to brew hope for grieving humanity in our generation. Many of us believe this under-reported, under-marketed and under-exposed African missionary would now, at last, receive due global accord, as he exports the Gospel message to the world, deploying a home-grown apparatus.

When he introduced this nondenominational vehicle (GCK) which he now hopes to drive the Gospel around the globe, the 82-year pastor said the initiative was borne out of the mission and mandate of Jesus Christ to proclaim the Good News of Christ, and bring reprieve and solace to the world, which has been gripped with unresolved crisis. He spoke of taking GCK to Liberia, Togo, Ghana and the United States and beyond. He has since been to Ghana, Togo, Cameroun and Zambia. Bigger and busier global trips capturing Asia, Europe and the Americas and more of Africa are in the works for Kumuyi before the end of 2023 and in the years ahead. This schedule will see GCK head for India in November, 2023.

A continent used to receiving Christian missionaries from Europe and America is now reversing the role. An African is traversing the nations of the world to restore to them what theyve lost, after the West first brought it to us.

The disturbing tale the Europeans and Americans told us was that being the darkest under Heaven, our continent needed to be saved. Yet, we didnt experience salvation but humiliating and excruciating enslavement. We were merchandised minions on plantations thousands of miles across the Atlantic. Their missionary kinsmen later came, giving better spiritual perspectives and tutorials: we all, black and white, were lost and must be delivered from the coming judgment of a wronged God. The Bible they brought confirmed it: the censorious slave-dealers who painted Africa dark and ruled we were doomed werent better either; they were as guilty; they were black in their soul and therefore needing salvation, also. The tutor wasnt better than the pupil. Both, not only the black race, were required to go to the Ultimate Rabbi for redemption.

Today, following the thumping spiritual fall of humanitys erstwhile headmaster, the West, Heaven is asking Africa to come to their rescue, before they bring down the entire mankind to their knees. The West cant again be looked upon for escape from the wrath to come. They have broken loose from mainstream humanity and are now feeding on a raft of deeds and inventions and teachings surpassing what undid civilizations that went completely under in the blaze of Gods punitive fury. The West is sick and cannot cure sinking mankind.

Many believe that the same way God moved the preachers of the revivalist Christian era to head for Africa to cleanse it of her ignorance is the same way He is writing a new narrative mandating Africa to go to the aid of grieving man being misled by the West now bereft of the Reinhard Bonnkes and Billy Grahams who used to visit Africa.

A new missionary expedition is the order of the day in the 21st Century, and Africa is the cynosure of all eyes. GCK, recording outings emblazoned in genuine salvation for millions, signs and wonders such as the raising of the dead, healing of terminal ailments, restoration of hope for the despondent, is poised to give the world hope that God hasnt abandoned His creatures. In Africa and other areas of the globe, we used to gather in hundreds of thousands at the crusades of evangelists from the Western Hemisphere, sitting at their feet to receive the Word of God. The times have changed; the centre of gravity of mans spiritual rebirth has moved; God is calling forth a new set of His trusted generals from Africa, persons of integrity, no more solely from the western part of the world, but chiefly from here in our continent, to do His work. These wont be found desecrating and weakening the Church and society with misanthropic Malthusian LGBTQ+ doctrines and unhealthy practices which are a threat, not only to the faith community worldwide, but also to all the inhabitants of the planet.

Ojewale is a writer in Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

To promote quality training of nurses and midwives, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has recruited over 700 tutors for the various Nursing and Midwifery Training Colleges in the country.

The Health Minister, Mr Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, disclosed this on Tuesday at Bolgatanga during the 16th Annual General Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Health Training Institutions (COHHETI).

The Ministry is in the business of building the capacity of the health training schools to make them efficient in the training of our health workers, he said.

Mr Agyeman-Manu also noted that the MoH and the Health Training Institutions are required to provide policy direction to guide the training of health professionals.

He said it was, therefore, necessary for the Ministry to support the training institutions to enable them to perform their functions more effectively, saying the work of the health training institutions is critical in quality health delivery.

Touching on the working conditions of the health workers, he expressed optimism that the Ministry would approve the new conditions of service before the end of 2023.

On his part, the Upper East Regional Minister, Mr Stephen Yakubu, charged the nurses and midwives to adhere to their professional ethics.

The Acting Director-General of the Ghana Tertiary Education Commission (GTEC), Prof Ahmed Abdullai Jinapor, asserted that the well-being of the citizens largely depends on the competence and skills of health professionals.

That, he said, makes the training of health workers a moral responsibility that must be taken seriously.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The long-running chieftaincy dispute in the Abola Traditional Area in the Greater Accra region over who is the rightful heir to the Abola Mantse stool has taken a controversial turn, with allegations of political interference in the judicial process.

As has been the tradition for over two centuries, the Abola Mantse stool rotates between the two gate families of Ahele-Nansedu and Akwatse We (Nunoo-Nuacoo).

However, confusion erupted following the death of the last occupant Nii Ahele Nunoo II who was from the Ahele-Nansedu gate in 2000.

Both gates made claims to the vacant stool, but the Akwatse We gate believes it is their turn according to customary.

They presented a case to the Naaye We (Ga Traditional Court) in 2016 against the purported installation of another person from the Ahele-Nansedu gate.

Nii Ahele Nunoo III, the embattled Abola Mantse

The matter has moved through various arbitration and judicial processes, including the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs and the High Court, but a resolution is yet to be made due to alleged "intransigence" from the Ahele-Nansedu side.

Very recently, the Akwatse We took th case to the High Court in Kumasi, but were stunned by the "bizarre" dismissal of their "watertight evidence" by Justice Ali Baba Abature which fueled their suspicions of undue political interference.

As spokesperson for the Akwatse We Nii Amonakwa Agyemang Kese III, the Shipii of Abola who addressed a press conference on Wednesday, October 25, said, "Our recent case brought before the High Court in Kumasi presided by Justice Ali Baba Abature, was bizarrely thrown out with the judge overlooking our watertight evidence."

Nii Amonakwa Agyemang Kese III, the Shipii of Abola addressing the media

Their suspicions were seemingly confirmed when a court clerk later revealed to them that the judge had confided that he acted under "political pressure" due to the influence of former Accra Mayor Stanley Nii Adjiri Blankson, now a member of the Council of State.

Stanley Nii Adjiri Blankson, former Accra Mayor

The judge is alleged to be a God-son to Nii Adjiri Blankson and was a PRO to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly during the ex-mayors tenure before getting a call to the bench.

"Justice Ali Baba Abature, until his call to the bench was a Public Relations Officer to the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) under the tenure of Adjiri Blankson and therefore you can connect the dots," Nii Agyemang Kese III stated.

According to him, the former Accra Mayor and Council of State member is allegedly exerting influence because the outcome should it be in favour of the Akwatse We Clan, may not favour the current Ga Mantse and President of the Ga Traditional Council, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru whose capacity is being challenged in court and with whom he is a close ally.

The Akwatse We Clan noted that the supporters of the current overload of the Ga land fear he may not be the choice of candidate since the rightful claimant of the Abola stool customary assumes the position of an Advisor (Tufohene) to the Ga Traditional Council and has the mandate to nominate a candidate for the stool.
Flagbearer hopeful of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), Francis Addai-Nimoh has expressed his dislike for the much-touted "Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition" of the NPP.

According to him, he only knows the party as NPP and not any tradition.

Addai-Nimoh made these remarks during an interview on Kasapa.

The former Member of Parliament for Mampong in the Ashanti Region asserted that, as far as he is concerned, the NPP's constitution does not recognize or mention such a tradition.

He further described it as merely a slogan or mantra, emphasizing that it should be a constitutional matter if the party intends to formalize the so-called tradition.

Addai-Nimoh stated, "I don't know where this Danquah, Busia, Dombo tradition is coming from. What I know is the party called the New Patriotic Party.

The founding fathers of this party were in the Popular Front Party (PFP) and the United National Convention (UNC) which existed in 1979. These two parties, most of whose members were from the United Party (UP) led by Dr. Busia."

He continued, "If the party can take a decision that these three names must find expression in the party's constitution, then we must amend it and include these names and state that this is the tradition of the party.

But if there's nothing like that in our party's constitution, then it remains just a slogan or mantra. It must be a constitutional matter; we shouldn't just be saying Danquah, Busia, Dombo tradition."

The Danquah-Busia-Dombo tradition is often celebrated by some NPP members and is considered the oldest surviving political tradition in Ghana, dating back to 1947, before Ghana attained independence.

The tradition is rooted in the legacies of political figures such as Dr. JB Danquah, founder of the United Gold Coast Convention (UGCC), Dr. Kofi Abrefa Busia, and Simon Diedong Dombo.

While the tradition's roots extend to 1947, it gained prominence in 1957 after a series of events led to the merger of opposition parties, forming the United Party (UP), in reaction to the Avoidance of Discrimination Act (ADA).
26.10.2023 LISTEN

Former Deputy General-Secretary of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Samuel Koku Anyidoho has launched another attack on the party's National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia.

In a series of social media posts, he described Asiedu Nketia as a bloody coward who has become power-drunk and destroying NDC.

According to Koku Anyidoho, Asiedu Nketia wants to become President of Ghana but will fail.

He insists that the only President Asiedu Nketia can become is President of Malaria Republic.

Bloody coward. I dared him to come out and deny that I was present when, out of his extreme hatred for JM (bcos JM too did not do well by wanting to remove him as GS), he swore to do everything to make sure JM never becomes President again; he has run away from me. Naniama!

Since he has become so power drunk & now deceiving himself into thinking he can become Vice President & President, I want to help him so I am giving him a short cut. His Excellency General Mosquito, President of the Republic of Malaria - where men wear womens clothing, Koku Anyidoho said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

The former NDC Deputy General Secretary continued, Since he has become so power drunk & now deceiving himself into thinking he can become Vice President & President, I want to help him so I am giving him a shortcut. His Excellency General Mosquito, President of the Republic of Malaria - where men wear womens clothing.

Since his dismissal from the NDC in 2021, Samuel Koku Anyidoho has become an albatross around the neck of Johnson Asiedu Nketia and former President John Dramani Mahama with his constant criticisms and attacks.

He has always held the view that the two are destroying the NDC.
In order to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 16 of the United Nations agenda by 2030, the Inspector General of Police Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has revealed that his outfit is putting strong measures in place to achieve that vision.

According to him, the state of the Ghana Police Service in the country some years back is not the same as today.

He noted that the management of the police service is working assiduously to change the negative narrative the citizenry has about the Ghana Police Service.

He emphasized that SDG 16 is about promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels, therefore people everywhere should be free of fear from all forms of violence and feel safe as they go about their lives irrespective of their ethnicity, faith or sexual orientation.

He explains that the service is working so that together, Ghana can develop when it comes to security issues.

He made this known during a stakeholder engagement with the Trades Union Congress (TUC) at the police headquarters in Accra to address security issues ahead of Christmas festivity.

Some of the concerns raised at the dialogue include police service providing maximum security during the festive season and beyond, issues relating to demonstrations, minimizing traffic jams in the cities during the festivity.

In addressing the questions, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare assured that the police service will double security for all Ghanaian residents and tourists from the diaspora during the festivities.

He emphasized that the Police Service is ready to accept and receive people from the diaspora during this Christmas period.

"We want to assure you, your workers, your communities, the rest of Ghanaians and the rest of Africa, and the rest of the world at large that this year's Christmas period, December and beyond, will be awesome. The police service is preparing itself to give you a double overdose of security to the level that even when you lose your pin it will be found. Ghana is ready to receive all the tourists. All Ghanaians who live abroad and want to come home and connect with family and friends, we want them to know that Ghana is ready, and all the people who wish Ghana well, Ghana is ready. Come and enjoy our awesome hospitality," he said.

The Secretary-General of TUC, Dr. Anthony Yaw Baah commended the IGP and the police management team for their endless effort in providing security for the nation.

He added that the TUC will work with the Ghana police service to educate the entire population about the Public Order Act.

"We will work with the police service to engage in public education about the Public Order Act so that we can exercise our rights as workers and citizens to demonstrate at the same time we will not come into any confrontation with the police. So the police are urging us, our workers, and the entire population that they are not against demonstrations so let's all follow the rules and obey the law (the Public Order Act) when we want to demonstrate," he stated.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The Royal Gate of Akwatse We Clan of Abola, who are laying claim to the Abola stool of the Ga state has accused Nii Ahele Nunoo III of shamelessly parading himself as Abola Chief, insisting that he is a dubious character self-styling and faking as Abola Chief.

The Abola Akwatste We (Clan) has issued a warning to the general public and all like-minded people to desist from dealing with Nii Ahele Nunoo or do so at their own risk.

The Abola Akwatste We (Clan) is claiming legitimacy to the Ga Abola Royal Stool which is currently illegally being occupied by Nii Ahele Nunoo III, who hails from the Nansiedu Clan.

At an all-red press conference amidst a charged atmosphere of war songs on Wednesday 25th October 2023 at the Traditional House of the Akwatse We Palace located at Akoto Lante in Accra, the elders of Abola Akwatse We (Clan) led by Nii Okai Awuah, Family Spokesperson, who also doubles as the Abola Dzasetse, posited that it is their turn to ascend to the throne since the last Abola Mantse who left the stool as a result of his demise was from the Nansiedu Clan.

The group has also petitioned Chief Justice Gertrude Sackey Torkonoo over the conduct of the Kumasi High Court Judge Justice Alibaba Abature, who they alleged has misconducted himself, in the same case.

He explained that the Abola Mantsestool has been the preserve of the Nunoo Dynasty and it is supposed to rotate among the descendants of the three (3) brothers; Ahele-Nansedu, Ashirifi -Papawua and Nunoo- Nuacoo ever since their forebearers who migrated from Abura in Central Region settled in Accra.

The three brothers including their family members arrived in the then Dutch Accra in 1805 along with a Stool and were housed in temporary structures along the beach of Ga Mashie, now known as Abola (corrupted name of Abura).

The exploits of the Abura (Abola) settlers in fishing and other fields were recognized by the then Ga Mantse, Nii AyikumaTieku Bah who offered them a descent accommodation around his palace at Abola Piam of the Ga State.

Our forebearers developed the land space around the premises now known as Abola Kpatashie which from time immemorial accommodated the various ruling houses of Abola (Ahele-Nansedu, Ashirifi -Papawua and Nunoo- Nuacoo), he explained.

He continued, The Ashirifi -Papawua clan has become extinct or their name has been struck out from the stool gates because of their inability to provide a male candidates from their side.

We from the Akwatse We, being the descendants of Nunoo-Nuacoo occupied the Abola Mantse stool for the first time in 1845 with the stool name Nii Kofi Tuadan I. He was succeeded by the descendants of Ahele-Nansedu.

"A descendant of the Akwatse We (Nunoo- Nuacoo) Clan re-occupied the stool for the second time in 1958 under the stool name Nii Kofi Tuadan II, who was also succeeded by a descendant of the Ahele-Nansedu Clan, Nii Ahele Nunoo II who passed to eternity in the year 2000.

He added that after the death of Nii Ahele Nunoo II, both ruling houses planned to organize series of meetings with the understanding of sensitizing all subjects of the Abola stool to be fully involved during the nomination and installation of a successor to the stool without rancour but this objective never materialized.

The general consensus is that, it is the Akwatse Wes (Nunoo-Nuacoo) turn to enstool an Abola Mantse. The head of the Nunoo and Allied families of Akwatse-We ruling house, abolaKpatashie was in search of a suitable candidate to occupy the vacant Abola stool following the demise of Nii Ahele Nunoo II from the Nansedu ruling House of Abola Kpatashie, he further explained.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

Bernard Allotey Jacobs, the former Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticised retired Supreme Court Judge William Atuguba for his controversial remarks about the court handling of the Assin North lawmaker James Gyakye Quayson's dual citizenship trial.

Justice William Atuguba made the comments during a public lecture held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, where he described the Supreme Court's verdict on the dual citizenship case as "scandalous."

In his speech, Justice Atuguba said, "The James Gyakye Quayson's decision by the Supreme Court is, with all due respect, scandalous in that the court, in the teeth of the settled maxim Res Judicata et non quieta movere, re-adjudicated the same matter that has been adjudicated upon by the High court on the merits."

He added, "The Supreme Court does not stand in a good light, with all due respect, in disqualifying Gyakye Quayson, despite his clear certificate of renunciation of his Canadian citizenship as of 26th November 2020, while the elections were held on December 7. I am not able to see substantial justice in this."

Justice Atuguba continued, "If the certificate of renunciation is so mandatory and conclusive, why was it not considered conclusive to qualify Gyakye Quayson when he received it, dated 26th November 2020, whereas the parliamentary election was held on 7th December 2020? Statutes, judgments, and documents must always be applied with consistency, both in the letter and spirit. These must always be construed holistically and as instruments of justice, since it is a well-settled principle that the duty of a court is to do justice, and a court should not be turned away from doing justice."

In reaction to Justice Atuguba's comments, Bernard Allotey Jacobs expressed his bewilderment at the retired judge's statements.

Allotey Jacobs, who is dismissed from the NDC, questioned why Justice Atuguba a respected "no-nonsense man" in the legal fraternity would make such remarks.

"Does he want to be a Running Mate to the leading opposition flagbearer?" Allotey Jacobs quizzed during an interview on Peace FMs Kokrokoo morning show.
Kwamena Duncan, former Central Regional Minister has slammed a retired Supreme Court Judge, Justice William Atuguba, over his critique of the Supreme Court's verdict of the dual citizenship case of Assin North legislator, Gyakye Quayson.

He describes Atuguba's comments as part of an opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) agenda to scandalise the court and win public sympathy.

Justice Atuguba, during a public lecture on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 described the Supreme Court's decision on the dual citizenship case as "scandalous."

In his speech, Justice Atuguba stated, "The James Gyakye Quayson's decision by the Supreme Court is, with all due respect, scandalous in that the court, in the teeth of the settled maxim Res Judicata et non quieta movere, re-adjudicated the same matter that has been adjudicated upon by the High court on the merits."

He added, "The Supreme Court does not stand in good light, with all due respect, in disqualifying Gyakye Quayson, despite his clear certificate of renunciation of his Canadian citizenship as of 26th November 2020, whereas the elections were held on December 7. I am not able to see substantial justice in this."

"If the certificate of renunciation is so mandatory and conclusive, why was it not considered conclusive to qualify Gyakye Quayson when he received it, dated 26th November 2020, whereas the parliamentary election was held on 7th December 2020? Statutes, judgments, and documents must always be applied with consistency, both in the letter and spirit. These must always be construed holistically and as instruments of justice, since it is a well-settled principle that the duty of a court is to do justice, and a court should not be turned away from doing justice," Justice Atuguba continued.

In reaction to Justice Atuguba's comments, Kwamena Duncan, during an interview on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show on Wednesday, accused the retired Supreme Court Judge of pushing the agenda of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC).

Duncan stated, "It is an extraterritorial NDC agenda."

He questions the retired judge's sudden outburst, saying, "So, during those times, Atuguba could indeed marshal the power of the Judiciary, the power conferred on them, to do what he could do to sentence people for contempt. Today, after leaving the place, there's no real independence. It is all to add to that agenda."

He added, "The real independence, the real separation of powers, the security of tenure of judges, you are seeing this only after leaving the Supreme Court that while you were in active service, you didn't see those? And who tells you that if you saw them while in active service, you couldn't have said them?"
The Ghana Armed Forces has reiterated its dedication to safeguarding civilians' right to peaceful protest, according to organizers of the upcoming #OccupyJulorbiHouse demonstration.

Representatives from Democracy Hub, the group organizing the December protest, met in closed doors with the Chief of Defence Staff and other senior military officials on Wednesday.

"During the course of the discussion, both parties engaged in a candid and open dialogue, addressing various important aspects," said a statement from Democracy Hub.

The statement further noted, "'They affirmed that this fundamental right is an integral and non-negotiable element of our democratic journey.'"

Democracy Hub revealed the meeting was "productive" and lasted two hours, indicating, "We received assurances from the Ghana Armed Forces regarding their unwavering belief in the sanctity of the freedom of assembly.

The December month-long protest will call on the government to address rising cost of living and corruption concerns as well as seek the resignation of President Akufo-Addo.

Organizers say the meeting was intended to recognize the military as partners and reaffirm a "mutual commitment to improving and safeguarding Ghana's democracy."

The statement said the groups will continue "peaceful and constructive dialogue" to advocate for positive change and ensure Ghana's democracy grows stronger.
The elections committee of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on Thursday, November 26, held a meeting with the Ghana Police Service as part of preparations for the flagbearer election of the party.

At the meeting, the Chair of the Elections Committee of the NPP, Professor Mike Aaron Oquaye urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare to help the party hold a successful election.

He said the NPP as a party that prides itself as democratic, wants to lead the way by holding a very peaceful election next month.

We know the appropriate authority is the Ghana Police. It is not just an internal event which matters, it is our own thing, In fact, even a family meeting, if you have it and you dont go according to the law and you start fighting, very soon the police will have to come in. So nothing is beyond the parameters of the Police whether it borders on peace and security of the country.

We are assuring you that the regulations we have all signed up to which we are going to make available to the Police and already available to the EC, is going to be the blueprint of the process. Anyone who disregards this on that day should be dealt with according to law, Professor Mike Aaron Oquaye said at the meeting.

He continued, We want to establish that this country is a lawful nation and for that matter, in particular, the NPP as an advanced party, we claim to be fathers and mothers of democracy in Ghana, therefore, we must act in a manner that is in conformity with the relevant claims that we make. We, therefore, urge you to ensure that you do your work accordingly, there will be no no-go area in this process, Ghana is one republic and belongs to all of us.

The crucial flagbearer election of NPP is scheduled to be held on Saturday, November 4.

The top role in the party is being contested by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Assin Central MP Kennedy Agyapong, former Food and Agriculture Minister, Dr. Owusu Akoto Afriyie, as well as Francis Addai Nimoh.
Former Justice of the Court of Appeal, Justice Kwaku Gyan, has raised concerns about the impact of the recent Akosombo Dam spillage on next years general elections.

Speaking at a public lecture dubbed "Protecting Our Democracy: The Role of the Judiciary," Justice Kwaku Gyan described the dam spillage as a "humanitarian tragedy" and a "self-inflicted disaster" that has resulted in the destruction of the properties of affected residents.

Of particular concern to him was the loss of important identification documents such as the Ghana Card and the Voter ID, both of which are essential for exercising one's right to vote.

According to Justice Kwaku Gyan, the government and other relevant authorities have not adequately addressed the devastating effects of the disaster, which has disrupted normal activities in the affected communities.

He called on the government and relevant authorities to take necessary steps to ensure that the residents of the Volta Region and other communities affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage are not disenfranchised.

Justice Kwaku Gyan emphasized, "Many human settlements in the catchment areas have completely been wiped off the map. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of Ghanaians escaping the rampaging floods left behind practically all their human possessions.

Relevant to the forthcoming 2024 elections are two most critical items and possessions of the people fleeing from the floodwaters. They are the Almighty Ghana Card and the Voter ID card.

Thus, apart from the inextensible loss of their creature comforts, the victims of this deluge in the Volta region in particular, as well as those in other parts of the country, manifestly risk the cruel denial of their constitutional right to vote in the 2024 elections by reason of the loss or destruction through the Volta River floods of their national ID and Voter ID cards, unless something urgent and drastic is done to avert this eventuality."

He underscores the importance of universal adult suffrage and the franchise to vote are constitutional imperative.

He stated, We all know that the universal adult suffrage and hence the franchise to vote by those qualified to vote is a constitutional imperative.

Every reasonable and necessary step and action ought to be devised to avoid and prevent any mass disenfranchisement of the people of the Volta Region as well as those in all other parts of the country affected and afflicted by this man-made disaster.
A former Minister of Health, Alex Segbefia has been scheduled to testify in the trial of former Deputy Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, as the next defence witness on November 9.

At the hearing on October 26, 2023, Counsel for Ato Forson, Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe notified the court about the defence's decision to withdraw three witnesses that had earlier been billed to testify for their client.

A former Comptroller and Accountant General, Seidu Kotomah, a former Chief Director at the Ministry of Health, Patrick Nomo, and a former Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Dr. Henry Kofi Wampah were to testify in succession. But Edudzi Tamakloe noted that in their place, former Health Minister Alex Segbefia will testify.

He prayed for adjournment to November 9, since the former Health Minister was out of town until then.

But Justice Afia Serwah Asare-Botwe noted that Alex Segbefia had been served with a witness summons and was to appear on November 2, hence was surprised he had travelled without notifying the court.

Mr Tamakloe apologized on behalf of Alex Segbefia citing an emergency situation as the reason for his absence.

The case has since been adjourned to November 9 for Alex Segbefia to give his witness testimony.

Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, who is currently Minority Leader, has been charged with causing financial loss of 2.3 million euros to the state in a deal to purchase 200 ambulances for the country between 2014 and 2016 during his tenure as Deputy Finance Minister.

Two others, Sylvester Anemana, a former Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, and Richard Jakpa, a businessman are also standing trial for various roles in the matter.

All three have, however, pleaded not guilty to five counts of wilfully causing financial loss to the state, abetment to wilfully cause financial loss to the state, contravention of the Public Procurement Act and intentionally misapplying public property.

According to the prosecution, Dr Forson, who allegedly wrote letters of credit of 3.95million to the central bank for the supply of 50 ambulances in favour of Big Sea, played an integral part in the resultant financial loss to the state since the ambulances procured were not fit for purpose.

-3news.com
With the construction of offshore wind power projects accelerating across China, industry analysts said this will also help expedite other such projects that are scheduled to commence construction by the end of this year. China Post Securities predicted the commencement of 8.5 GW of offshore wind power projects by the end of this year, as various regulatory constraints are gradually lifted. It predicted that this year about 5.59 GW of offshore wind power projects will achieve full grid connection, with three offshore wind power projects already achieving grid connection by the end of September. Furthermore, about 4.7 GW of projects have already completed most of their construction and are expected to achieve grid connection within the year, it said. Local governments across China have approved 21 offshore wind power projects so far this year, with a total installed capacity of 10.1 GW, according to China Economic Net data. As regulatory constraints and other limiting factors are gradually lifted, an increase in domestic offshore wind power production and delivery is likely, said Lin Boqiang, head of the China Institute for Studies in Energy Policy at Xiamen University. The pace has accelerated since September, when many domestic offshore wind power projects stepped up construction, he said. The first grid-parity offshore wind power project in Jiangsu province has been approved for commencement, which is also the first of its kind to be approved during the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period in the province. The local government had approved the feasibility of the project on Sept 13, marking a clear acceleration in the pace of the sector's development in the province, said Lin. He further said the slow development of the sector in the first half of this year was mainly due to the slowdown in approvals and environmental assessments, but there were other factors responsible as well. The long-term growth prospects for the sector, however, remain unchanged; the sector is on the cusp of a turning point in terms of demand, as the factors restricting its development have been gradually diminishing, he said. CITIC Securities analysts said the approval for the Jiangsu project will have a positive impact on the overall sector and help boost the installed capacity across China. The growth rate of the sector's installed capacity is expected to further increase, thus driving the rapid development of the entire sectoral chain, they said. Similar projects in Guangdong province, the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region and Shandong province have noticeably accelerated compared to the first half, they said. Qin Haiyan, secretary-general of the Chinese Wind Energy Association, said the sector has enormous potential in China. For the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China has planned five mega offshore wind power bases while various provinces have also set targets for adding capacity in the sector. The development of offshore wind power in China is expected to accelerate in the years to come while driving the development of the entire industrial chain, he said. He also said support from local governments plays a key role in the sector's development as well as in achieving grid parity before 2025. The number of projects in the sector has been increasing rapidly in recent years, helping create a complete industrial chain, including wind turbine units, auxiliary equipment and related industries, said Xiao Maolin, general manager of the New Energy Division of China National Offshore Oil Corp. A series of key offshore wind power technologies, from wind turbines to blades, from undersea cables to offshore construction equipment, have achieved breakthroughs in recent years in the country, he said. Promoting wind power to venture into deeper offshore areas with better wind resources is of great significance in establishing a globally competitive wind power industrial and supply chain for China, Xiao said.


Thousands lined up outside a Denver-area liquor store to meet Hollywood star Jason Momoa.

Momoa attracted large crowds to Bevy's Liquor World in Parker for the meet-and-greet fan opportunity Wednesday afternoon.

The Colorado event was part of a multi-state tour for Momoa to promote Meili Vodka, a vodka brand he co-founded with Blaine Halvorson.

Momoa and Halvorson signed bottles of Meili and posed for photos with fans in Parker Wednesday.

Fans who missed Momoa and Halvorson still have an opportunity to meet the pair. They'll be signing bottles and meeting fans at Applejack Wine & Spirits in Wheat Ridge (3320 Youngfield St.) Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

The event is for those 21 years and older. The tour will also make stops in Missouri, Iowa, Wisconsin, Arizona and Minnesota in October.

Momoa will reprise his role as the superhero Aquaman in "Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom," in theaters Dec. 20.

The Facebook page Living in Parker, CO posted videos here.

For more on this story, and others, visit The Denver Gazette's news partners 9News.com.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare has given the assurance that his men will work day and night to ensure a peaceful celebration of this years Christmas.

Speaking during a meeting with the leadership of the TUC at the Police Headquarters on Wednesday, October 25, the IGP urged Ghanaians staying abroad and tourists all around the world to make Ghana their preferred destination for the Christmas holidays.

He stressed that the Police are ready to work to ensure the festivities are celebrated with no incidents of crime and attacks.

We want to assure you that this Christmas will be awesome. I assure you that the police will give you double overdose of security, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare said.

The IGP continued, So Ghana is ready, to all the tourists, I want to assure you that Ghana is ready, the police is ready, come and enjoy our hospitality. We will protect you and all your belongings.

The meeting with TUC this week is just one of many meetings the Ghana Police Service is having with various groups ahead of the Christmas festivities.

The Police will be meeting other stakeholders as part of security preparations ahead of the yuletide.

The immediate focus of the Police, however, is to provide security for the flagbearer election of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The crucial polls will be held on Saturday, November 4.
26.10.2023 LISTEN

The Ghana Grid Company Ltd (GRIDCo) has issued a press release to inform the public about why power has been cut to several parts of the country this evening.

Several parts of the capital, Accra experienced power outages (dumsor) today, Thursday, October 26.

At around 6:30pm, power was cut in several areas but was shortly restored.

About 30 minutes later, power was cut again, rendering various communities without light and in darkness.

According to the Ghana Grid Company Ltd, the power cut is due to limited supply of gas to Tema.

In the release issued by the Corporate Communications Section of the Ghana Grid Company LTD, it apologized for the inconvenience caused to the public.

The Ghana Grid Company Ltd, (GRIDCo), the "Operator" of the National Interconnected Transmission System (NITS) informs the general public that due to limited gas supply to Tema, there will be a supply gap of 550MW at peak time.

This will affect power supply to consumers in some parts of the country. The inconvenience caused is deeply regretted, parts of the release from GRIDCo) said.
Advisors Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Whirlpool Co. (NYSE:WHR  Free Report) by 3.6% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 110,911 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,852 shares during the quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLCs holdings in Whirlpool were worth $16,502,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of WHR. Meiji Yasuda Asset Management Co Ltd. boosted its position in shares of Whirlpool by 3.6% during the 2nd quarter. Meiji Yasuda Asset Management Co Ltd. now owns 1,719 shares of the companys stock valued at $266,000 after purchasing an additional 60 shares in the last quarter. Viking Fund Management LLC raised its holdings in shares of Whirlpool by 0.3% in the second quarter. Viking Fund Management LLC now owns 27,070 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,028,000 after purchasing an additional 70 shares during the last quarter. Assetmark Inc. increased its stake in Whirlpool by 8.9% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 968 shares of the companys stock valued at $128,000 after buying an additional 79 shares during the last quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems lifted its holdings in Whirlpool by 2.3% during the third quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems now owns 4,267 shares of the companys stock worth $575,000 after acquiring an additional 96 shares during the period. Finally, BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S boosted its holdings in shares of Whirlpool by 88.3% in the 2nd quarter. BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S now owns 209 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 98 shares during the last quarter. 90.89% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

WHR has been the topic of several research analyst reports. StockNews.com began coverage on Whirlpool in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on Whirlpool from $118.00 to $121.00 in a research note on Wednesday, July 26th. Credit Suisse Group reaffirmed a neutral rating and set a $150.00 price objective on shares of Whirlpool in a report on Tuesday, July 25th. Finally, Bank of America reduced their price target on shares of Whirlpool from $90.00 to $87.00 in a research report on Tuesday, July 18th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and one has given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $131.00.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, CFO James W. Peters sold 6,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $143.12, for a total value of $858,720.00. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 40,764 shares in the company, valued at $5,834,143.68. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, CEO Marc R. Bitzer sold 20,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $143.18, for a total value of $2,863,600.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 138,583 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $19,842,313.94. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CFO James W. Peters sold 6,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $143.12, for a total value of $858,720.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 40,764 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,834,143.68. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 1.85% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Whirlpool Stock Down 14.5 %

Shares of WHR stock traded down $18.27 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $107.34. 3,713,071 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 725,309. Whirlpool Co. has a 12-month low of $104.50 and a 12-month high of $160.74. The company has a quick ratio of 0.52, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.92. The stock has a market cap of $5.88 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -3.94, a PEG ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 1.53. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $132.76 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $138.18.

Whirlpool (NYSE:WHR  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 25th. The company reported $5.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.38 by $1.07. The firm had revenue of $4.93 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.79 billion. Whirlpool had a negative net margin of 8.13% and a positive return on equity of 29.70%. The businesss revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $4.49 earnings per share. On average, analysts expect that Whirlpool Co. will post 16.4 EPS for the current year.

Whirlpool Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 15th. Investors of record on Friday, November 17th will be issued a $1.75 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 16th. This represents a $7.00 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.52%. Whirlpools payout ratio is -24.59%.

Whirlpool Profile

(Free Report)

Whirlpool Corporation manufactures and markets home appliances and related products and services in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and Asia. The company's principal products include refrigerators, freezers, ice makers, and refrigerator water filters; laundry appliances, and commercial laundry products and related laundry accessories; cooking and other small domestic appliances; and dishwasher appliances and related accessories, as well as mixers.

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Advisors Capital Management LLC lowered its holdings in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) by 6.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 291,827 shares of the semiconductor companys stock after selling 19,255 shares during the period. Advisors Capital Management LLCs holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing were worth $29,451,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of TSM. Great Lakes Retirement Inc. raised its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 5.5% during the second quarter. Great Lakes Retirement Inc. now owns 10,247 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $1,034,000 after buying an additional 537 shares during the last quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp grew its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 4.9% during the 2nd quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 11,414,068 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $1,151,908,000 after purchasing an additional 537,173 shares during the last quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. increased its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 4.8% during the 2nd quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 6,233 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $629,000 after purchasing an additional 288 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp raised its holdings in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 6.5% in the 2nd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 26,560,599 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $2,680,496,000 after acquiring an additional 1,610,499 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Premier Fund Managers Ltd purchased a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the second quarter worth $201,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 16.51% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently commented on TSM. StockNews.com upgraded Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 20th. Susquehanna decreased their price objective on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $135.00 to $130.00 in a report on Monday, October 9th. Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and issued a $115.00 target price on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Friday, October 20th. Finally, Barclays began coverage on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a research note on Monday. They set an overweight rating and a $105.00 target price for the company. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Buy and an average price target of $116.67.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Performance

Shares of TSM traded up $0.08 on Thursday, reaching $87.72. The companys stock had a trading volume of 6,448,544 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,055,401. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $90.23 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $93.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 2.42 and a quick ratio of 2.13. The stock has a market capitalization of $454.95 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.63, a PEG ratio of 2.57 and a beta of 1.07. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited has a 12-month low of $59.43 and a 12-month high of $110.69.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The semiconductor company reported $1.29 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.16 by $0.13. The business had revenue of $17.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.90 billion. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a net margin of 41.42% and a return on equity of 28.71%. The companys revenue was down 10.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.79 EPS. Research analysts forecast that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited will post 4.97 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 11th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 15th will be given a $0.4724 dividend. This represents a $1.89 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.15%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 14th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings payout ratio is 26.44%.

About Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides complementary metal oxide silicon wafer fabrication processes to manufacture logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, and embedded memory semiconductors.

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Asset Advisors Investment Management LLC reduced its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Free Report) by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 68,098 shares of the companys stock after selling 200 shares during the period. Asset Advisors Investment Management LLCs holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. were worth $7,858,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. CWM LLC lifted its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 506,386 shares of the companys stock valued at $58,432,000 after purchasing an additional 6,784 shares in the last quarter. Berkeley Capital Partners LLC raised its holdings in Merck & Co., Inc. by 10.1% in the 2nd quarter. Berkeley Capital Partners LLC now owns 16,134 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,862,000 after acquiring an additional 1,475 shares during the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in Merck & Co., Inc. by 22.8% in the 2nd quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 67,472 shares of the companys stock worth $7,786,000 after purchasing an additional 12,545 shares in the last quarter. Great Lakes Retirement Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter. Great Lakes Retirement Inc. now owns 14,026 shares of the companys stock worth $1,619,000 after purchasing an additional 115 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Van ECK Associates Corp grew its position in shares of Merck & Co., Inc. by 3.0% in the second quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 605,173 shares of the companys stock valued at $69,831,000 after purchasing an additional 17,821 shares in the last quarter. 74.59% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other Merck & Co., Inc. news, EVP Steven Mizell sold 4,250 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $109.01, for a total value of $463,292.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 22,935 shares in the company, valued at $2,500,144.35. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.20% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have issued reports on the company. UBS Group upgraded Merck & Co., Inc. from a neutral rating to a buy rating and upped their target price for the company from $117.00 to $122.00 in a report on Friday, October 20th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and set a $135.00 price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a research report on Monday. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. TheStreet cut shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from an a- rating to a c+ rating in a research report on Friday, September 1st. Finally, Morgan Stanley decreased their price objective on shares of Merck & Co., Inc. from $116.00 to $115.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 11th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and sixteen have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Merck & Co., Inc. presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $124.55.

Read Our Latest Report on Merck & Co., Inc.

Merck & Co., Inc. Stock Up 2.6 %

NYSE MRK traded up $2.66 on Thursday, hitting $106.29. 7,425,416 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 7,488,771. Merck & Co., Inc. has a twelve month low of $96.36 and a twelve month high of $119.65. The company has a current ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88. The company has a market capitalization of $269.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 84.94, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.18 and a beta of 0.34. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $106.21 and a 200 day moving average of $109.72.

Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The company reported $2.13 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.95 by $0.18. Merck & Co., Inc. had a net margin of 5.34% and a return on equity of 16.29%. The firm had revenue of $16 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $15.30 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.85 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 7.0% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts expect that Merck & Co., Inc. will post 2.88 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Merck & Co., Inc.

(Free Report)

Merck & Co, Inc operates as a healthcare company worldwide. It operates through two segments, Pharmaceutical and Animal Health. The Pharmaceutical segment offers human health pharmaceutical products in the areas of oncology, hospital acute care, immunology, neuroscience, virology, cardiovascular, and diabetes, as well as vaccine products, such as preventive pediatric, adolescent, and adult vaccines.

Further Reading

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Get Free Report) announced a quarterly dividend on Thursday, October 19th, Zacks reports. Stockholders of record on Monday, October 30th will be paid a dividend of 0.25 per share by the bank on Thursday, November 16th. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.70%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, October 27th.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. has decreased its dividend by an average of 13.4% per year over the last three years. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. has a dividend payout ratio of 22.9% indicating that its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Research analysts expect Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. to earn $4.26 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.00 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 23.5%.

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Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Stock Down 1.9 %

Shares of BLX opened at $21.27 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $772.56 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.14 and a beta of 1.21. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $22.56 and its 200-day moving average price is $21.37. The company has a quick ratio of 1.84, a current ratio of 1.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.59. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. has a 52 week low of $14.83 and a 52 week high of $24.65.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price target on Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. from $45.00 to $43.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, August 15th. Jefferies Financial Group assumed coverage on Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in a research report on Monday, October 16th. They set a buy rating and a $37.00 price target on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Finally, Barclays assumed coverage on Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. in a research report on Thursday, June 29th. They set an overweight rating and a $32.00 price target on the stock.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on BLX

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A.

An institutional investor recently raised its position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. stock. Rhumbline Advisers lifted its stake in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. (NYSE:BLX  Free Report) by 2.3% in the 1st quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 42,209 shares of the banks stock after purchasing an additional 957 shares during the quarter. Rhumbline Advisers owned about 0.12% of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. worth $734,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. 7.02% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A. Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A., a multinational bank, primarily engages in the financing of foreign trade in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates through two segments, Commercial and Treasury. It also offers bilateral loans; structured loans including syndicated and clubbed, such as acquisition and pre-export financing, A/B loan financing, bridge loans, and liability management; and project financing.

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Berkeley Capital Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of General Dynamics Co. (NYSE:GD  Free Report) by 377.3% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 4,224 shares of the aerospace companys stock after buying an additional 3,339 shares during the period. Berkeley Capital Partners LLCs holdings in General Dynamics were worth $909,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of GD. Sanders Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of General Dynamics in the first quarter valued at about $630,466,000. Norges Bank acquired a new stake in shares of General Dynamics during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $607,393,000. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of General Dynamics by 325.6% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,857,786 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $155,968,000 after acquiring an additional 2,186,369 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its holdings in shares of General Dynamics by 484.2% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,749,729 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $399,306,000 after acquiring an additional 1,450,213 shares during the period. Finally, Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in General Dynamics by 91,832.2% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,386,337 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $343,964,000 after purchasing an additional 1,384,829 shares in the last quarter. 86.08% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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General Dynamics Trading Down 0.6 %

General Dynamics stock traded down $1.36 during trading on Thursday, hitting $241.04. The companys stock had a trading volume of 848,846 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,181,045. The stocks fifty day moving average is $226.31 and its 200 day moving average is $219.99. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a current ratio of 1.39. General Dynamics Co. has a 1-year low of $202.35 and a 1-year high of $256.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $65.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.96, a P/E/G ratio of 2.10 and a beta of 0.83.

General Dynamics Announces Dividend

General Dynamics ( NYSE:GD Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 25th. The aerospace company reported $3.04 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.87 by $0.17. General Dynamics had a net margin of 8.24% and a return on equity of 18.01%. The company had revenue of $10.57 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.05 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $3.26 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 6.0% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts predict that General Dynamics Co. will post 12.58 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 6th will be paid a dividend of $1.32 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 5th. This represents a $5.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.19%. General Dynamicss dividend payout ratio is presently 43.35%.

Insider Transactions at General Dynamics

In related news, CEO Phebe N. Novakovic sold 33,230 shares of General Dynamics stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $227.96, for a total value of $7,575,110.80. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 778,092 shares in the company, valued at $177,373,852.32. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. In other news, VP Gregory S. Gallopoulos sold 6,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $225.83, for a total value of $1,467,895.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now owns 113,319 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $25,590,829.77. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, CEO Phebe N. Novakovic sold 33,230 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $227.96, for a total transaction of $7,575,110.80. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 778,092 shares of the companys stock, valued at $177,373,852.32. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 53,230 shares of company stock worth $12,086,716 in the last ninety days. Insiders own 1.52% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research firms have weighed in on GD. Bank Of America (Bofa) upped their target price on General Dynamics from $295.00 to $305.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday. Susquehanna raised their target price on shares of General Dynamics from $270.00 to $285.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a report on Thursday. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft started coverage on shares of General Dynamics in a report on Wednesday, September 27th. They issued a buy rating and a $271.00 price target on the stock. Citigroup reissued a buy rating and set a $283.00 price objective on shares of General Dynamics in a research note on Tuesday, September 19th. Finally, UBS Group began coverage on General Dynamics in a research note on Tuesday, October 10th. They issued a neutral rating and a $265.00 target price on the stock. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $267.06.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on General Dynamics

General Dynamics Company Profile

(Free Report)

General Dynamics Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense company worldwide. It operates through four segments: Aerospace, Marine Systems, Combat Systems, and Technologies. The Aerospace segment produces and sells business jets; and offers aircraft maintenance and repair, management, aircraft-on-ground support and completion, charter, staffing, and fixed-base operator services.

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Berkeley Capital Partners LLC boosted its stake in Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE:PRU  Free Report) by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 5,409 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 131 shares during the quarter. Berkeley Capital Partners LLCs holdings in Prudential Financial were worth $477,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. PFG Private Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in Prudential Financial by 6.6% in the 2nd quarter. PFG Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,794 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $158,000 after acquiring an additional 111 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC lifted its position in Prudential Financial by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 9,269 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $767,000 after buying an additional 118 shares in the last quarter. Northwest Bancshares Inc. lifted its position in Prudential Financial by 3.2% during the 2nd quarter. Northwest Bancshares Inc. now owns 3,888 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $343,000 after buying an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in Prudential Financial by 5.1% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,451 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $244,000 after buying an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Rise Advisors LLC lifted its position in Prudential Financial by 8.6% during the 2nd quarter. Rise Advisors LLC now owns 1,516 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $134,000 after buying an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. 54.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have commented on the stock. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Prudential Financial in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft started coverage on shares of Prudential Financial in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. They set a hold rating and a $99.00 price objective on the stock. Raymond James upgraded shares of Prudential Financial from a market perform rating to a strong-buy rating and set a $125.00 price objective on the stock in a research note on Thursday, August 24th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price objective on shares of Prudential Financial from $121.00 to $119.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 6th. Finally, Morgan Stanley restated an equal weight rating and set a $102.00 price objective on shares of Prudential Financial in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating, one has issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Prudential Financial presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $102.91.

Prudential Financial Stock Performance

PRU traded up $1.55 on Thursday, reaching $90.86. The company had a trading volume of 842,568 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,943,794. Prudential Financial, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $75.37 and a fifty-two week high of $110.96. The stock has a market cap of $32.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 29.77, a P/E/G ratio of 0.72 and a beta of 1.38. The companys fifty day moving average is $94.33 and its 200 day moving average is $89.78. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.64, a quick ratio of 0.06 and a current ratio of 0.06.

Prudential Financial (NYSE:PRU  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The financial services provider reported $2.94 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.04 by ($0.10). Prudential Financial had a return on equity of 15.73% and a net margin of 1.82%. The business had revenue of $12.64 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.68 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company earned $1.74 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Prudential Financial, Inc. will post 11.75 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Prudential Financial Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, September 14th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, August 22nd were given a dividend of $1.25 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, August 21st. This represents a $5.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.50%. Prudential Financials payout ratio is presently 166.67%.

Prudential Financial Company Profile

(Free Report)

Prudential Financial, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance, investment management, and other financial products and services in the United States and internationally. It operates through PGIM, Retirement Strategies, Group Insurance, Individual Annuities, Individual Life, Assurance IQ, and International Businesses segments.

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Berkeley Capital Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 24.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 16,253 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 3,200 shares during the quarter. Berkeley Capital Partners LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $1,587,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Stone House Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter worth approximately $29,000. BOK Financial Private Wealth Inc. bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at approximately $32,000. Barrett & Company Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International during the 1st quarter worth $32,000. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC grew its stake in Philip Morris International by 75.0% in the 1st quarter. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 350 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC raised its holdings in Philip Morris International by 127.0% in the 1st quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 370 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 207 shares during the period. 79.70% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Philip Morris International Stock Up 0.1 %

Philip Morris International stock traded up $0.10 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $90.13. 2,214,095 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,232,522. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1-year low of $88.17 and a 1-year high of $105.62. The business has a fifty day moving average of $93.73 and a 200 day moving average of $95.31. The company has a market capitalization of $139.91 billion, a PE ratio of 17.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.71.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $9.14 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $9.21 billion. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 11.41% and a negative return on equity of 129.48%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 13.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $1.53 EPS. Research analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.22 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 12th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, September 27th were given a $1.30 dividend. This is an increase from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.27. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 26th. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.77%. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is presently 100.97%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have issued reports on PM. Morgan Stanley decreased their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $118.00 to $113.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, October 2nd. UBS Group decreased their target price on Philip Morris International from $116.00 to $112.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their price target on Philip Morris International from $111.00 to $105.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 13th. Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and set a $114.00 price target on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Monday, October 2nd. Finally, Barclays lowered their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $115.00 to $110.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $109.42.

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Philip Morris International Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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Coldstream Capital Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 7.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 78,509 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,231 shares during the quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $5,021,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Dillon & Associates Inc. increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 3.9% during the 1st quarter. Dillon & Associates Inc. now owns 3,955 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $245,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the period. Abbrea Capital LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Abbrea Capital LLC now owns 10,025 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $695,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares during the period. Westshore Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 4.3% during the 1st quarter. Westshore Wealth LLC now owns 3,658 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $254,000 after purchasing an additional 151 shares during the period. Providence Wealth Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 0.5% during the 1st quarter. Providence Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 28,179 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,952,000 after purchasing an additional 153 shares during the period. Finally, Lebenthal Global Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Lebenthal Global Advisors LLC now owns 10,533 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $730,000 after purchasing an additional 156 shares during the period. 74.98% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Stock Down 5.1 %

NYSE BMY traded down $2.90 on Thursday, reaching $53.71. The stock had a trading volume of 11,710,728 shares, compared to its average volume of 9,189,255. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a 1 year low of $53.60 and a 1 year high of $81.43. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $59.04 and a 200 day moving average price of $63.04. The company has a market capitalization of $112.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.06, a P/E/G ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 0.43. The company has a current ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.08.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

Bristol-Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $2.00 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.76 by $0.24. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a return on equity of 50.51% and a net margin of 17.62%. The company had revenue of $10.97 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.96 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.99 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 2.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts forecast that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.37 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 1st. Investors of record on Friday, October 6th will be given a dividend of $0.57 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 5th. This represents a $2.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.25%. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is presently 60.64%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts have recently issued reports on the company. Atlantic Securities cut their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $90.00 to $85.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 28th. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $87.00 to $79.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 28th. SVB Securities assumed coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, July 10th. They set a market perform rating and a $66.00 target price on the stock. HSBC assumed coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Friday, July 14th. They set a reduce rating and a $56.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Barclays cut their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $62.00 to $60.00 in a research report on Monday, October 2nd. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and seven have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $68.67.

Get Our Latest Report on Bristol-Myers Squibb

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated 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 completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 27,868 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,706,915. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other Bristol-Myers Squibb news, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total value of $44,754.48. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 6,584 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $402,545.76. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total value of $1,101,642.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 27,868 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,706,915. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.09% of the stock is owned by insiders.

About Bristol-Myers Squibb

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis, an oral inhibitor for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in NVAF, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for anti-cancer indications; Pomalyst/Imnovid indicated for patients with multiple myeloma; Orencia for adult patients with active RA and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Bloomberg have reported that Telenor Group CEO Sigve Brekke said the operator will decide whether to divest Telenor Pakistan at the end of 2023, as the unit is currently under review.

In an interview with the publication, Brekke said there are several options with discussions being held with a number of parties in regards to Telenor Pakistan.

The Pakistani unit has been under review since 2022 and the Pakistan market been described in Telenors annual report as a challenging business environment.

Pakistans macroeconomic landscape was blamed for the unit reporting an impairment charge of NOK2.5 billion ($223.7 million), prompting speculation it was up for the chop.

Telenor has been active in the merger and acquisition scene in Asia, having recently closed the merger between its unit dtac and True in Thailand, and of Celcom and Digi in Malaysia.

Telenor reported in its recent third quarter results, services revenues increasing 4% to NOK15.8 billion year-on-year and EBITDA grew 7% after adjusting for the charge in Pakistan.

In its Asian operations, Telenor noted its units delivered underlying growth despite a challenging macro-economic landscape. Telenor Asia reported service revenues and EBITDA grew 6% and 4% year-on-year respectively, driven by mobile revenue growth in Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Growth in these two units "more than" offset negtaive impact from inflation including energy costs.

its units held top position in three out of four markets with a total base of 200 million subscribers.
Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) had its price objective cut by research analysts at Royal Bank of Canada from C$133.00 to C$128.00 in a report released on Thursday, BayStreet.CA reports. The firm currently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank of Canadas target price would indicate a potential upside of 32.25% from the stocks previous close.

A number of other research analysts also recently issued reports on the stock. Scotiabank decreased their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$123.00 to C$120.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday. CIBC cut their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$123.00 to C$118.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Thursday. TD Securities cut their target price on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$125.00 to C$115.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday. National Bankshares dropped their price objective on Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$110.00 to C$109.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, ATB Capital decreased their price target on shares of Canadian Pacific Kansas City from C$120.00 to C$117.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of C$113.13.

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Canadian Pacific Kansas City Stock Up 0.6 %

Shares of CP traded up C$0.59 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting C$96.79. 747,556 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,192,817. Canadian Pacific Kansas City has a 1-year low of C$94.94 and a 1-year high of C$112.96. The company has a quick ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 57.68. The company has a market capitalization of C$90.16 billion, a PE ratio of 21.04, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 0.87. The business has a 50 day moving average of C$103.10 and a 200 day moving average of C$105.34.

Canadian Pacific Kansas City (TSE:CP  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CP) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 25th. The company reported C$0.92 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of C$0.92. The business had revenue of C$3.34 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of C$3.38 billion. Canadian Pacific Kansas City had a return on equity of 11.22% and a net margin of 41.96%. Equities research analysts anticipate that Canadian Pacific Kansas City will post 4.6653734 EPS for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Canadian Pacific Kansas City

In related news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 14,475 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$107.53, for a total value of C$1,556,427.27. In other news, Senior Officer James Dominic Luther Clements sold 14,475 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of C$107.53, for a total value of C$1,556,427.27. Also, Senior Officer Keith E. Creel sold 3,608 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of C$77.58, for a total transaction of C$279,893.13. Insiders own 0.03% of the companys stock.

About Canadian Pacific Kansas City

(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.

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Cloud Peak Energy Inc. (OTCMKTS:CLDPQ  Get Free Report) shares passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $0.00 and traded as high as $0.00. Cloud Peak Energy shares last traded at $0.00, with a volume of 106,200 shares trading hands.

Cloud Peak Energy Stock Performance

Cloud Peak Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Cloud Peak Energy Inc produces coal in the Powder River Basin and the United States. The company operates through Owned and Operated Mines, and Logistics and Related Activities. It owns and operates three surface coal mines comprising the Antelope Mine and the Cordero Rojo Mine located in Wyoming; and the Spring Creek Mine located in Montana.

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Cwm LLC boosted its position in shares of iShares International Equity Factor ETF (NYSEARCA:INTF  Free Report) by 1.7% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 2,942,874 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 50,460 shares during the quarter. Cwm LLC owned 8.43% of iShares International Equity Factor ETF worth $78,898,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of INTF. NewEdge Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of iShares International Equity Factor ETF in the 1st quarter worth approximately $25,000. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new position in iShares International Equity Factor ETF in the first quarter worth approximately $29,000. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. purchased a new position in shares of iShares International Equity Factor ETF during the 1st quarter worth $71,000. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust purchased a new position in shares of iShares International Equity Factor ETF during the 1st quarter worth $88,000. Finally, Aspire Private Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares International Equity Factor ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $90,277,920,000.

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iShares International Equity Factor ETF Trading Down 0.3 %

iShares International Equity Factor ETF stock traded down $0.08 during trading on Thursday, reaching $24.81. The company had a trading volume of 161,426 shares, compared to its average volume of 134,747. The firm has a market capitalization of $865.87 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.65 and a beta of 0.87. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $26.02 and its 200 day simple moving average is $26.59. iShares International Equity Factor ETF has a 52 week low of $21.76 and a 52 week high of $27.78.

iShares International Equity Factor ETF Profile

The iShares International Equity Factor ETF (INTF) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the STOXX International Equity Factor index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap equities in developed markets outside the US. Stocks are selected and weighted to maximize exposure to five factors: momentum, quality, value, low volatility, and size.

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Cwm LLC trimmed its holdings in The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) by 7.9% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 174,816 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 14,933 shares during the quarter. Cwm LLC owned 0.08% of Travelers Companies worth $30,359,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Travelers Companies by 1.9% during the first quarter. Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC now owns 3,074 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $562,000 after buying an additional 58 shares during the period. Lindbrook Capital LLC boosted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 1.6% during the 1st quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 3,822 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $655,000 after acquiring an additional 59 shares during the period. Integrated Advisors Network LLC grew its position in Travelers Companies by 3.1% in the 1st quarter. Integrated Advisors Network LLC now owns 2,169 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $372,000 after acquiring an additional 66 shares during the last quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC increased its stake in Travelers Companies by 2.2% in the first quarter. Checchi Capital Advisers LLC now owns 3,199 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $548,000 after purchasing an additional 68 shares during the period. Finally, Clearstead Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Travelers Companies by 4.0% during the first quarter. Clearstead Advisors LLC now owns 1,829 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $314,000 after purchasing an additional 70 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 81.12% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $181.00 to $185.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Royal Bank of Canada lifted their price objective on Travelers Companies from C$183.00 to C$185.00 in a report on Thursday, July 20th. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on shares of Travelers Companies from $185.00 to $183.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 11th. Piper Sandler lowered their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $208.00 to $176.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 6th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft initiated coverage on shares of Travelers Companies in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. They set a hold rating and a $186.00 price objective on the stock. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, five have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Travelers Companies has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $193.38.

Travelers Companies Stock Performance

Shares of TRV traded down $0.31 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $164.42. The stock had a trading volume of 925,948 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,341,726. The firm has a market capitalization of $37.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.83, a PEG ratio of 1.37 and a beta of 0.59. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40, a quick ratio of 0.34 and a current ratio of 0.34. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $163.45 and a 200 day moving average price of $170.60. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $157.33 and a fifty-two week high of $194.51.

Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 18th. The insurance provider reported $1.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.93 by ($0.98). Travelers Companies had a return on equity of 10.41% and a net margin of 5.45%. The firm had revenue of $10.50 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.42 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.20 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 14.1% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts anticipate that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 11.31 EPS for the current year.

Travelers Companies Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 29th. Stockholders of record on Friday, December 8th will be given a $1.00 dividend. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.43%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 7th. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 43.29%.

Travelers Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

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.

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Mackenzie Financial Corp boosted its holdings in Danaher Co. (NYSE:DHR  Free Report) by 7.6% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,889,478 shares of the conglomerates stock after acquiring an additional 204,097 shares during the period. Danaher comprises about 1.0% of Mackenzie Financial Corps investment portfolio, making the stock its 24th biggest holding. Mackenzie Financial Corp owned about 0.39% of Danaher worth $684,257,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Venture Visionary Partners LLC increased its position in Danaher by 0.6% in the second quarter. Venture Visionary Partners LLC now owns 8,022 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,925,000 after buying an additional 46 shares during the period. AMF Tjanstepension AB bought a new stake in Danaher in the 2nd quarter valued at about $39,043,000. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich boosted its stake in Danaher by 0.7% during the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 1,189,703 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $285,529,000 after purchasing an additional 8,284 shares during the period. Old North State Trust LLC grew its position in Danaher by 4,123.1% in the 1st quarter. Old North State Trust LLC now owns 24,452 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $172,000 after purchasing an additional 23,873 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Arlington Partners LLC increased its stake in shares of Danaher by 63.2% in the first quarter. Arlington Partners LLC now owns 1,105 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $279,000 after purchasing an additional 428 shares during the period. 76.71% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Danaher Trading Up 0.1 %

NYSE DHR traded up $0.16 on Thursday, hitting $192.81. 1,608,635 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,921,443. The companys 50-day moving average price is $238.49 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $240.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 2.08 and a quick ratio of 1.70. Danaher Co. has a 52-week low of $183.24 and a 52-week high of $281.54. The company has a market capitalization of $142.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.39, a P/E/G ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 0.81.

Danaher Announces Dividend

Danaher ( NYSE:DHR Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The conglomerate reported $2.02 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.83 by $0.19. The firm had revenue of $6.87 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.60 billion. Danaher had a return on equity of 13.87% and a net margin of 20.01%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 10.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $2.56 earnings per share. Research analysts predict that Danaher Co. will post 8.58 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 27th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, October 12th will be issued a dividend of $0.27 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, October 11th. This represents a $1.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.56%. Danahers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 13.62%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on DHR. KeyCorp decreased their price objective on Danaher from $300.00 to $260.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on Danaher from $260.00 to $250.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday. Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Danaher from $290.00 to $215.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their target price on shares of Danaher from $250.00 to $215.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus reduced their price target on shares of Danaher from $250.00 to $240.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, July 26th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Danaher currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $257.73.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on Danaher

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, SVP Daniel Raskas sold 11,213 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $260.65, for a total transaction of $2,922,668.45. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 38,288 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,979,767.20. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In related news, SVP Daniel Raskas sold 11,213 shares of Danaher stock in a transaction on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $260.65, for a total value of $2,922,668.45. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 38,288 shares in the company, valued at approximately $9,979,767.20. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Linda Filler sold 10,190 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $260.25, for a total transaction of $2,651,947.50. Following the sale, the director now owns 38,152 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,929,058. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 21,993 shares of company stock valued at $5,722,435 over the last quarter. Insiders own 11.10% of the companys stock.

About Danaher

(Free Report)

Danaher Corporation designs, manufactures, and markets professional, medical, industrial, and commercial products and services worldwide. The Biotechnology segments offers bioprocess technologies, consumables, and services; lab filtration, separation, and purification; lab-scale protein purification and analytical tools; reagents, membranes and services; and healthcare filtration solutions.

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Engie Brasil Energia S.A. (OTCMKTS:EGIEY  Get Free Report) was the target of a significant growth in short interest in October. As of October 15th, there was short interest totalling 5,300 shares, a growth of 341.7% from the September 30th total of 1,200 shares. Based on an average daily trading volume, of 15,500 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.3 days.

Engie Brasil Energia Trading Down 1.6 %

Shares of Engie Brasil Energia stock traded down $0.13 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $8.07. 8,519 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 12,467. Engie Brasil Energia has a 1 year low of $6.77 and a 1 year high of $15.00. The business has a fifty day moving average of $8.61 and a two-hundred day moving average of $8.81. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.74, a current ratio of 1.28 and a quick ratio of 1.27.

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Engie Brasil Energia (OTCMKTS:EGIEY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 9th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Engie Brasil Energia had a net margin of 27.92% and a return on equity of 36.63%. The firm had revenue of $502.34 million during the quarter.

Engie Brasil Energia Increases Dividend

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 6th. Investors of record on Friday, September 1st were issued a $0.3419 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 31st. This is a positive change from Engie Brasil Energias previous dividend of $0.13. Engie Brasil Energias dividend payout ratio is currently 47.95%.

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on EGIEY. UBS Group lowered shares of Engie Brasil Energia from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, July 25th. HSBC raised shares of Engie Brasil Energia from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, August 25th.

View Our Latest Analysis on EGIEY

About Engie Brasil Energia

(Get Free Report)

Engie Brasil Energia SA, together with its subsidiaries, generates, sells, and trades in electrical energy in Brazil. The company operates 68 plants, including 11 hydroelectric power plants; 4 thermal power plants; 49 wind-powered plants; 3 biomass; 2 photovoltaic solar power plant; 1 conventional thermoelectric plant; and 2 small hydroelectric plants in the 21 states of Brazil.

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EVERTEC (NYSE:EVTC  Get Free Report) updated its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday. The company provided EPS guidance of $2.81-2.86 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $2.79. The company issued revenue guidance of $663-667 million, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $655.26 million.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have recently commented on the company. Raymond James increased their price objective on EVERTEC from $49.00 to $50.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, July 24th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of EVERTEC in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. Finally, Susquehanna increased their target price on shares of EVERTEC from $36.00 to $43.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 27th.

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View Our Latest Analysis on EVTC

EVERTEC Stock Performance

Shares of EVTC stock traded down $0.51 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $34.39. The stock had a trading volume of 295,976 shares, compared to its average volume of 285,590. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.71, a current ratio of 1.98 and a quick ratio of 1.98. The firm has a market capitalization of $2.23 billion, a PE ratio of 10.14, a PEG ratio of 1.28 and a beta of 0.96. The stocks 50 day moving average is $37.70 and its 200 day moving average is $36.92. EVERTEC has a twelve month low of $30.17 and a twelve month high of $42.03.

EVERTEC (NYSE:EVTC  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Wednesday, July 26th. The business services provider reported $0.61 EPS for the quarter, meeting analysts consensus estimates of $0.61. EVERTEC had a net margin of 35.42% and a return on equity of 28.71%. The business had revenue of $167.08 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $164.43 million. As a group, research analysts forecast that EVERTEC will post 2.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

EVERTEC Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 30th will be given a dividend of $0.05 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, October 27th. This represents a $0.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.58%. EVERTECs payout ratio is 5.90%.

Insider Buying and Selling at EVERTEC

In other news, EVP Paola Perez-Surillo sold 3,253 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $39.11, for a total transaction of $127,224.83. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 32,139 shares in the company, valued at $1,256,956.29. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other EVERTEC news, EVP Paola Perez-Surillo sold 3,253 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, July 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $39.11, for a total value of $127,224.83. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 32,139 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,256,956.29. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, COO Diego Viglianco sold 1,128 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 16th. The shares were sold at an average price of $39.79, for a total transaction of $44,883.12. Following the completion of the sale, the chief operating officer now owns 36,765 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,462,879.35. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Company insiders own 0.64% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On EVERTEC

A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of EVTC. California State Teachers Retirement System raised its position in shares of EVERTEC by 10.6% in the second quarter. California State Teachers Retirement System now owns 79,017 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $2,910,000 after buying an additional 7,595 shares during the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky boosted its holdings in shares of EVERTEC by 5.7% during the second quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 21,442 shares of the business services providers stock worth $790,000 after purchasing an additional 1,159 shares during the last quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC grew its position in shares of EVERTEC by 6.5% in the second quarter. Nuveen Asset Management LLC now owns 354,018 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $13,038,000 after purchasing an additional 21,453 shares during the period. Wells Fargo & Company MN grew its holdings in EVERTEC by 1.1% in the 2nd quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 606,752 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $22,347,000 after buying an additional 6,872 shares during the period. Finally, State of Tennessee Treasury Department increased its stake in shares of EVERTEC by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. State of Tennessee Treasury Department now owns 48,650 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $1,792,000 after acquiring an additional 1,804 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.80% of the companys stock.

EVERTEC Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

EVERTEC, Inc engages in transaction processing business in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates through Payment Services  Puerto Rico & Caribbean; Payment Services  Latin America; Merchant Acquiring; and Business Solutions segments. It provides merchant acquiring services, which enable point of sales and e-commerce merchants to accept and process electronic methods of payment, such as debit, credit, prepaid, and electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards.

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Forbes J M & Co. LLP decreased its stake in shares of Bank of America Co. (NYSE:BAC) by 15.5% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 428,957 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 78,615 shares during the period. Bank of America makes up 1.5% of Forbes J M & Co. LLPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 23rd largest holding. Forbes J M & Co. LLPs holdings in Bank of America were worth $12,307,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other large investors have also recently modified their holdings of BAC. Old North State Trust LLC boosted its stake in Bank of America by 1.8% during the first quarter. Old North State Trust LLC now owns 23,584 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $675,000 after acquiring an additional 420 shares in the last quarter. Arkfeld Wealth Strategies L.L.C. boosted its stake in Bank of America by 1.8% during the second quarter. Arkfeld Wealth Strategies L.L.C. now owns 25,847 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $759,000 after acquiring an additional 446 shares in the last quarter. Parnassus Investments LLC boosted its stake in Bank of America by 9.5% during the second quarter. Parnassus Investments LLC now owns 37,656,022 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,080,351,000 after acquiring an additional 3,278,515 shares in the last quarter. Lavaca Capital LLC boosted its stake in Bank of America by 7.3% during the first quarter. Lavaca Capital LLC now owns 12,216 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $373,000 after acquiring an additional 828 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Independence Bank of Kentucky boosted its stake in Bank of America by 14.2% during the second quarter. Independence Bank of Kentucky now owns 16,685 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $479,000 after acquiring an additional 2,075 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 68.06% of the companys stock.

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Bank of America Price Performance

Shares of BAC traded up $0.55 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $26.10. The stock had a trading volume of 24,474,858 shares, compared to its average volume of 49,124,688. The firm has a market cap of $207.40 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.16, a PEG ratio of 1.06 and a beta of 1.36. Bank of America Co. has a 12 month low of $25.18 and a 12 month high of $38.60. The business has a fifty day moving average of $27.76 and a 200 day moving average of $28.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a current ratio of 0.83.

Bank of America Dividend Announcement

Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 17th. The financial services provider reported $0.90 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.83 by $0.07. The business had revenue of $25.20 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $25.13 billion. Bank of America had a net margin of 18.69% and a return on equity of 12.08%. The companys revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.81 earnings per share. Equities analysts predict that Bank of America Co. will post 3.43 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 29th. Investors of record on Friday, December 1st will be given a dividend of $0.24 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 30th. This represents a $0.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.68%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is 26.89%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, insider James P. Demare sold 75,000 shares of the companys 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 transaction, the insider now owns 185,108 shares in the company, valued at $5,836,455.24. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. 0.27% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

BAC has been the topic of several research reports. Evercore ISI dropped their price objective on shares of Bank of America from $35.00 to $33.00 in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $35.00 target price on shares of Bank of America in a research note on Tuesday, September 12th. Oppenheimer raised their price target on shares of Bank of America from $48.00 to $49.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 18th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price objective on Bank of America from $43.00 to $40.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, August 23rd. Finally, Morgan Stanley reduced their target price on Bank of America from $34.00 to $32.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 3rd. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have assigned a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Bank of America currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $35.37.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on BAC

Bank of America Profile

(Free Report)

Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. Its Consumer Banking segment offers traditional and money market savings accounts, certificates of deposit and IRAs, noninterest-and interest-bearing checking accounts, and investment accounts and products; and credit and debit cards, residential mortgages, and home equity loans, as well as direct and indirect loans, such as automotive, recreational vehicle, and consumer personal loans.

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General Electric (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY 2023 earnings guidance on Tuesday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $2.55-$2.65 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $2.36. The company issued revenue guidance of -. General Electric also updated its FY23 guidance to $2.55-2.65 EPS.

General Electric Stock Down 2.1 %

GE opened at $111.20 on Thursday. General Electric has a twelve month low of $56.85 and a twelve month high of $117.96. The firm has a market cap of $121.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.35 and a beta of 1.27. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $111.85 and a 200 day moving average price of $107.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.90 and a current ratio of 1.17.

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General Electric (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The conglomerate reported $0.82 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.56 by $0.26. General Electric had a return on equity of 11.10% and a net margin of 14.38%. The company had revenue of $17.35 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $15.46 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $0.35 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 19.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts forecast that General Electric will post 2.6 EPS for the current year.

General Electric Dividend Announcement

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 25th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 26th were issued a dividend of $0.08 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 25th. This represents a $0.32 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.29%. General Electrics dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 3.61%.

A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. Royal Bank of Canada upped their target price on General Electric from $130.00 to $131.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday. TheStreet lowered General Electric from a b- rating to a c rating in a research note on Tuesday. Argus upped their price target on General Electric from $112.00 to $130.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 26th. Bank of America upped their price target on General Electric from $108.00 to $120.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 6th. Finally, StockNews.com assumed coverage on General Electric in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and eleven have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $122.93.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on General Electric

Hedge Funds Weigh In On General Electric

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Proficio Capital Partners LLC lifted its stake in General Electric by 4.3% in the second quarter. Proficio Capital Partners LLC now owns 2,612 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $287,000 after buying an additional 107 shares during the period. PYA Waltman Capital LLC raised its position in shares of General Electric by 4.0% during the second quarter. PYA Waltman Capital LLC now owns 2,839 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $328,000 after purchasing an additional 109 shares during the period. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of General Electric by 1.0% during the first quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 11,272 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $1,078,000 after purchasing an additional 117 shares during the period. Plancorp LLC raised its position in shares of General Electric by 1.5% during the first quarter. Plancorp LLC now owns 9,628 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $881,000 after purchasing an additional 138 shares during the period. Finally, First Manhattan Co. raised its position in shares of General Electric by 0.5% during the first quarter. First Manhattan Co. now owns 29,506 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $2,698,000 after purchasing an additional 159 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.83% of the companys stock.

General Electric Company Profile

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General Electric Company operates as a high-tech industrial company in Europe, China, Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa. It offers gas and steam turbines, full balance of plant, upgrade, and service solutions, as well as data-leveraging software for power generation, industrial, government, and other customers.

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The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd. (TSE:TGOD  Get Free Report) was down 2.9% during mid-day trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as C$0.17 and last traded at C$0.17. Approximately 19,704,275 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 642% from the average daily volume of 2,656,874 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$0.18.

Green Organic Dutchman Stock Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.28 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 16.77. The companys 50-day simple moving average is C$0.17. The stock has a market capitalization of C$89.95 million and a PE ratio of -0.65.

Green Organic Dutchman Company Profile

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The Green Organic Dutchman Holdings Ltd., through its subsidiaries, produces and sells organic cannabis in Canada. It offers organic cannabis products, such as cannabis plants, cannabis plant seeds, dried cannabis, fresh cannabis, cannabis oils, cannabis topicals, cannabis extracts, and edible cannabis to retailers or distributors, and federal licensed entities.

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Raxio Data Centres, a provider of carrier-neutral, Tier III data centres in Africa, has announced that it has secured an additional US$46 million in equity funding.

This significant investment, says the company, comes from existing shareholders Roha and Meridiam, reinforcing their confidence in Raxios vision and execution capabilities.

Roha a US-based investment firm with offices in Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dubai and New York, supports the development of profitable new businesses across the African continent. Meridiam is a global investor and asset manager based in Paris specialised in developing, financing and managing long-term public infrastructure projects.

This additional US$46 million in equity funding comes shortly after Raxio successfully secured a facility of up to US$170 million of debt earlier this year from Proparco, which provides funding and support to both businesses and financial institutions in Africa and other continents, and the Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund (EAIF), a Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG) company.

Together, Raxio says, these investments have made it the best-funded independent data centre platform on the continent, solidifying its financial strength and securing its growth prospects.

As for how the money will be spent, Raxio says the newly acquired funds will be strategically deployed to support its expansion initiatives and facilitate the development of high-quality hyperscale-ready data centre facilities in leading African metro areas. This investment will enable Raxio to provide enhanced services and cater to the growing demand for reliable data storage, processing and connectivity solutions in Africa.

Raxio says is dedicated to minimising the environmental footprint of its facilities by reducing its energy and water consumption through efficient and innovative designs and equipment selection, and through supporting green initiatives. Its operations span Uganda, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola and Tanzania.
Guangdong Investment Limited (OTCMKTS:GGDVY  Get Free Report) saw a large growth in short interest during the month of October. As of October 15th, there was short interest totalling 4,400 shares, a growth of 91.3% from the September 30th total of 2,300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 2,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 1.5 days.

Guangdong Investment Stock Up 0.7 %

OTCMKTS:GGDVY traded up $0.26 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $36.16. 581 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,575. Guangdong Investment has a fifty-two week low of $31.78 and a fifty-two week high of $58.03. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $37.54 and a 200-day simple moving average of $42.18.

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Guangdong Investment Cuts Dividend

The business also recently declared a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 13th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 6th will be given a $1.1421 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, October 5th. Guangdong Investments dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 30.15%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Separately, JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on Guangdong Investment from $9.00 to $7.25 in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Guangdong Investment

Guangdong Investment Company Profile

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Guangdong Investment Limited, an investment holding company, engages in water resources, property investment and development, department store operation, hotel ownership, energy project operation and management, and road and bridge operation businesses. The company's Water Resources segment provides water distribution, sewage treatment, water pipeline installation and consultancy services, constructs water supply and sewage treatment infrastructure, and sells machineries in Mainland China and Hong Kong.

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Hamilton Point Investment Advisors LLC decreased its position in Accenture plc (NYSE:ACN  Free Report) by 4.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 26,214 shares of the information technology services providers stock after selling 1,213 shares during the period. Accenture makes up 1.9% of Hamilton Point Investment Advisors LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 15th largest position. Hamilton Point Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in Accenture were worth $8,089,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in ACN. Strategic Investment Solutions Inc. IL acquired a new position in Accenture in the 1st quarter worth $28,000. Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new position in Accenture in the 1st quarter worth $29,000. Sageworth Trust Co boosted its stake in Accenture by 872.7% in the 1st quarter. Sageworth Trust Co now owns 107 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 96 shares during the period. Guardian Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in Accenture in the 1st quarter worth $32,000. Finally, Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Accenture by 74.0% in the 1st quarter. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 134 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $38,000 after purchasing an additional 57 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.42% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Societe Generale boosted their price target on shares of Accenture from $314.00 to $373.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, July 7th. BMO Capital Markets dropped their target price on shares of Accenture from $360.00 to $350.00 in a report on Friday, September 29th. Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $358.00 target price on shares of Accenture in a report on Monday, September 18th. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $340.00 target price on shares of Accenture in a report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, Piper Sandler lowered their price target on shares of Accenture from $312.00 to $300.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Friday, September 29th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $333.24.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CEO Leonardo Framil sold 3,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $311.52, for a total transaction of $934,560.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 16,898 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,264,064.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Accenture news, CEO Leonardo Framil sold 3,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $311.52, for a total value of $934,560.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 16,898 shares in the company, valued at $5,264,064.96. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Ellyn Shook sold 5,250 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 20th. The shares were sold at an average price of $298.48, for a total transaction of $1,567,020.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 20,265 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,048,697.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 20,251 shares of company stock worth $6,093,877. Corporate insiders own 0.08% of the companys stock.

Accenture Trading Down 0.2 %

Shares of NYSE:ACN traded down $0.73 on Thursday, reaching $291.95. 852,536 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,265,636. The company has a fifty day moving average of $312.55 and a 200-day moving average of $304.09. Accenture plc has a twelve month low of $242.80 and a twelve month high of $330.43. The company has a market capitalization of $183.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.11, a PEG ratio of 2.58 and a beta of 1.22.

Accenture (NYSE:ACN  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, September 28th. The information technology services provider reported $2.71 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.65 by $0.06. The business had revenue of $15.99 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.07 billion. Accenture had a net margin of 10.72% and a return on equity of 29.74%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 3.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.60 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Accenture plc will post 12.1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Accenture Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 12th will be given a dividend of $1.29 per share. This is a positive change from Accentures previous quarterly dividend of $1.12. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, October 11th. This represents a $5.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.77%. Accentures dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 47.91%.

Accenture declared that its board has initiated a stock buyback plan on Thursday, September 28th that allows the company to buyback $4.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization allows the information technology services provider to reacquire up to 2% of its shares through open market purchases. Shares buyback plans are typically a sign that the companys board believes its shares are undervalued.

About Accenture

(Free Report)

Accenture plc, a professional services company, provides strategy and consulting, industry X, song, and technology and operation services worldwide. The company offers application services, including agile transformation, DevOps, application modernization, enterprise architecture, software and quality engineering, data management; intelligent automation comprising robotic process automation, natural language processing, and virtual agents; and application management services, as well as software engineering services; strategy and consulting services; data and analytics strategy, data discovery and augmentation, data management and beyond, data democratization, and industrialized solutions comprising turnkey analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions; metaverse; and sustainability services.

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Hersha Hospitality Trust (NYSE:HT  Get Free Report) shares crossed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of $7.28 and traded as high as $9.92. Hersha Hospitality Trust shares last traded at $9.90, with a volume of 195,561 shares changing hands.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have issued reports on the company. B. Riley lowered Hersha Hospitality Trust from a buy rating to a neutral rating and boosted their price target for the company from $9.00 to $10.00 in a research note on Friday, September 1st. Robert W. Baird increased their target price on shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust from $7.00 to $10.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 29th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust from $6.50 to $7.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 12th. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust from $7.00 to $10.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Monday, August 28th. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on Hersha Hospitality Trust in a research note on Wednesday. They issued a sell rating for the company. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and ten have assigned a hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $9.63.

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View Our Latest Report on HT

Hersha Hospitality Trust Stock Up 0.1 %

Hersha Hospitality Trust Dividend Announcement

The company has a market cap of $397.39 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 3.20 and a beta of 1.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47, a quick ratio of 1.71 and a current ratio of 1.71. The stocks fifty day moving average is $9.38 and its two-hundred day moving average is $7.30.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 16th. Investors of record on Friday, September 29th were issued a dividend of $0.05 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 28th. This represents a $0.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.02%. Hersha Hospitality Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 6.45%.

Institutional Trading of Hersha Hospitality Trust

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. increased its position in shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust by 3.3% during the third quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 5,708,933 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $45,556,000 after acquiring an additional 183,089 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust by 4.5% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 2,823,991 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $22,536,000 after purchasing an additional 122,345 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust by 1.1% during the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 1,698,461 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $13,639,000 after purchasing an additional 17,776 shares during the period. Millennium Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Hersha Hospitality Trust by 1,635.3% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 1,310,139 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $11,162,000 after buying an additional 1,234,641 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Prudential Financial Inc. grew its position in Hersha Hospitality Trust by 111.3% during the first quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 937,107 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $6,297,000 after buying an additional 493,550 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 56.96% of the companys stock.

Hersha Hospitality Trust Company Profile

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Hersha Hospitality Trust (HT) is a self-advised real estate investment trust in the hospitality sector, which owns and operates luxury and lifestyle hotels in coastal gateway and resort markets. The Company's 25 hotels totaling 3,811 rooms are located in New York, Washington, DC, Boston, Philadelphia, South Florida, and California.

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Horizon Bancorp Inc. IN reduced its stake in shares of L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:LHX  Free Report) by 43.8% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 436 shares of the companys stock after selling 340 shares during the quarter. Horizon Bancorp Inc. INs holdings in L3Harris Technologies were worth $85,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. BlackRock Inc. boosted its position in L3Harris Technologies by 3.2% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 15,499,913 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,041,703,000 after buying an additional 480,610 shares during the period. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 4.1% during the first quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,691,190 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,705,558,000 after acquiring an additional 339,806 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 1.0% in the first quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,556,352 shares of the companys stock valued at $696,145,000 after purchasing an additional 34,726 shares during the period. FMR LLC boosted its holdings in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 22.9% in the first quarter. FMR LLC now owns 2,604,895 shares of the companys stock valued at $511,184,000 after purchasing an additional 485,268 shares during the period. Finally, Clearbridge Investments LLC grew its stake in L3Harris Technologies by 1.8% in the first quarter. Clearbridge Investments LLC now owns 2,332,482 shares of the companys stock worth $457,726,000 after purchasing an additional 41,845 shares in the last quarter. 81.33% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have weighed in on LHX. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on L3Harris Technologies from $162.00 to $164.00 in a report on Friday, August 11th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft initiated coverage on shares of L3Harris Technologies in a report on Wednesday, September 27th. They set a hold rating and a $192.00 target price on the stock. Citigroup initiated coverage on shares of L3Harris Technologies in a report on Monday, September 11th. They issued a buy rating and a $193.00 price target for the company. Truist Financial dropped their price objective on shares of L3Harris Technologies from $255.00 to $227.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and issued a $240.00 price objective on shares of L3Harris Technologies in a research note on Friday, August 18th. Nine equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, L3Harris Technologies presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $225.00.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, President Edward J. Zoiss sold 30,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $90.84, for a total value of $2,725,200.00. Following the sale, the president now owns 31,923 shares in the company, valued at $2,899,885.32. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. 0.82% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

L3Harris Technologies Stock Performance

NYSE:LHX traded up $1.13 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $176.87. 345,341 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,159,540. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 1.09 and a quick ratio of 0.84. L3Harris Technologies, Inc. has a 52-week low of $160.25 and a 52-week high of $255.10. The stock has a market capitalization of $33.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 41.84, a PEG ratio of 4.71 and a beta of 0.71. The companys 50 day moving average price is $174.61 and its 200-day moving average price is $185.60.

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 26th. The company reported $2.97 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.94 by $0.03. L3Harris Technologies had a net margin of 4.46% and a return on equity of 12.82%. The firm had revenue of $4.69 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $4.37 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $3.23 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 13.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts forecast that L3Harris Technologies, Inc. will post 12.29 earnings per share for the current year.

L3Harris Technologies Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 1st. Investors of record on Friday, November 17th will be issued a $1.14 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 16th. This represents a $4.56 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.58%. L3Harris Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 108.57%.

About L3Harris Technologies

(Free Report)

L3Harris Technologies, Inc, an aerospace and defense technology company, provides mission-critical solutions for government and commercial customers worldwide. The company's Integrated Mission Systems segment provides multi-mission intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems; and communication systems, as well as fleet management support, sensor development, modification, and periodic depot maintenance services for ISR and airborne missions.

Further Reading

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Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. raised its stake in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM  Free Report) (TSE:AEM) by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 152,400 shares of the mining companys stock after purchasing an additional 400 shares during the quarter. Agnico Eagle Mines accounts for about 1.4% of Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc.s investment portfolio, making the stock its 3rd biggest position. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc.s holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines were worth $7,617,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in Agnico Eagle Mines by 5.1% in the second quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 657,214 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $32,848,000 after acquiring an additional 31,716 shares during the period. Financial Sense Advisors Inc. increased its stake in Agnico Eagle Mines by 53.2% in the second quarter. Financial Sense Advisors Inc. now owns 30,580 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,528,000 after acquiring an additional 10,623 shares during the period. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. boosted its position in Agnico Eagle Mines by 1.8% in the second quarter. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. now owns 44,821 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $2,240,000 after buying an additional 795 shares in the last quarter. Lmcg Investments LLC boosted its position in Agnico Eagle Mines by 0.3% in the second quarter. Lmcg Investments LLC now owns 168,481 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $8,421,000 after buying an additional 531 shares in the last quarter. Finally, MAI Capital Management acquired a new position in Agnico Eagle Mines in the second quarter valued at about $283,000. Institutional investors own 59.37% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

AEM has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. CSFB boosted their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $60.00 to $61.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Barclays boosted their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $61.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. BMO Capital Markets boosted their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $64.00 to $67.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and six have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $67.83.

Agnico Eagle Mines Price Performance

Shares of AEM stock traded down $1.94 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $46.87. 2,271,384 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,648,901. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited has a fifty-two week low of $40.81 and a fifty-two week high of $61.15. The stocks fifty day moving average is $47.60 and its two-hundred day moving average is $50.86. The company has a market cap of $23.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.53, a P/E/G ratio of 22.37 and a beta of 0.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10, a current ratio of 2.10 and a quick ratio of 0.85.

Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:AEM  Get Free Report) (TSE:AEM) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The mining company reported $0.44 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.43 by $0.01. Agnico Eagle Mines had a net margin of 40.06% and a return on equity of 5.63%. The company had revenue of $1.64 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.64 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $0.52 earnings per share. Agnico Eagle Miness quarterly revenue was up 13.3% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts forecast that Agnico Eagle Mines Limited will post 2.21 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

About Agnico Eagle Mines

(Free Report)

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, a gold mining company, exploration, development, and production of precious metals. The company's mines are located in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States.

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Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM  Free Report) (TSE:AEM) by 0.3% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 152,400 shares of the mining companys stock after purchasing an additional 400 shares during the period. Agnico Eagle Mines makes up about 1.4% of Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc.s portfolio, making the stock its 3rd largest holding. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc.s holdings in Agnico Eagle Mines were worth $7,617,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Ossiam lifted its holdings in shares of Agnico Eagle Mines by 20.8% during the 1st quarter. Ossiam now owns 71,270 shares of the mining companys stock worth $3,628,000 after acquiring an additional 12,251 shares during the period. Cerity Partners LLC lifted its stake in Agnico Eagle Mines by 14.8% in the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 9,319 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $475,000 after purchasing an additional 1,201 shares during the last quarter. Maryland State Retirement & Pension System bought a new position in Agnico Eagle Mines in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $774,000. Metis Global Partners LLC lifted its stake in Agnico Eagle Mines by 37.6% in the 1st quarter. Metis Global Partners LLC now owns 23,526 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $1,199,000 after purchasing an additional 6,430 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mint Tower Capital Management B.V. bought a new position in Agnico Eagle Mines in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $459,000. Institutional investors own 59.37% of the companys stock.

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Agnico Eagle Mines Stock Down 4.0 %

Shares of AEM traded down $1.94 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $46.87. 2,271,384 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,648,901. The company has a current ratio of 2.10, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.10. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $47.60 and a 200 day simple moving average of $50.86. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited has a 52 week low of $40.81 and a 52 week high of $61.15. The company has a market cap of $23.26 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.53, a PEG ratio of 22.37 and a beta of 0.85.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Agnico Eagle Mines ( NYSE:AEM Get Free Report ) (TSE:AEM) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The mining company reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.43 by $0.01. Agnico Eagle Mines had a net margin of 40.06% and a return on equity of 5.63%. The company had revenue of $1.64 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.64 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.52 earnings per share. The firms revenue was up 13.3% on a year-over-year basis. On average, equities analysts forecast that Agnico Eagle Mines Limited will post 2.21 EPS for the current year.

AEM has been the subject of several recent research reports. BMO Capital Markets upped their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $64.00 to $67.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. CSFB upped their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $60.00 to $61.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Barclays upped their price target on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines from $61.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Agnico Eagle Mines in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating for the company. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Agnico Eagle Mines presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $67.83.

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Agnico Eagle Mines Profile

(Free Report)

Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, a gold mining company, exploration, development, and production of precious metals. The company's mines are located in Canada, Australia, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in Canada, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and the United States.

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Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc. trimmed its stake in shares of AngloGold Ashanti plc (NYSE:AU  Free Report) by 19.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 152,400 shares of the mining companys stock after selling 37,600 shares during the quarter. Hussman Strategic Advisors Inc.s holdings in AngloGold Ashanti were worth $3,214,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of AU. Van ECK Associates Corp lifted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 14.8% during the 1st quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 27,073,882 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $654,917,000 after acquiring an additional 3,486,910 shares during the period. BlackRock Inc. lifted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 19.5% during the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 9,948,606 shares of the mining companys stock worth $240,657,000 after buying an additional 1,625,854 shares during the last quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 711.8% during the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 1,830,538 shares of the mining companys stock worth $44,280,000 after buying an additional 1,605,046 shares during the last quarter. Balyasny Asset Management LLC lifted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 214.4% during the 3rd quarter. Balyasny Asset Management LLC now owns 1,651,582 shares of the mining companys stock worth $22,825,000 after buying an additional 1,126,297 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sprott Inc. lifted its position in shares of AngloGold Ashanti by 462.8% during the 4th quarter. Sprott Inc. now owns 1,035,500 shares of the mining companys stock worth $20,109,000 after buying an additional 851,500 shares during the last quarter. 22.36% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on the company. StockNews.com assumed coverage on AngloGold Ashanti in a report on Thursday, October 19th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Royal Bank of Canada reaffirmed a sector perform rating and issued a $18.00 target price on shares of AngloGold Ashanti in a report on Monday, September 25th. Scotiabank lowered their target price on AngloGold Ashanti from $28.00 to $26.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a report on Thursday, September 21st. BMO Capital Markets raised AngloGold Ashanti from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and increased their price target for the company from $19.00 to $22.00 in a research note on Tuesday, September 12th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. initiated coverage on AngloGold Ashanti in a research note on Thursday, October 12th. They issued an overweight rating and a $24.00 price target for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, four have issued a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $23.40.

AngloGold Ashanti Stock Up 0.2 %

Shares of AngloGold Ashanti stock traded up $0.03 on Thursday, hitting $18.80. 1,515,466 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,822,685. AngloGold Ashanti plc has a one year low of $12.69 and a one year high of $30.26. The company has a quick ratio of 1.24, a current ratio of 2.17 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46. The company has a fifty day moving average of $17.43 and a two-hundred day moving average of $21.37.

AngloGold Ashanti (NYSE:AU  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, August 4th. The mining company reported $0.17 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.55 by ($0.38). The company had revenue of $1.16 billion during the quarter. Sell-side analysts anticipate that AngloGold Ashanti plc will post 1.13 earnings per share for the current year.

AngloGold Ashanti Cuts Dividend

The company also recently declared a Semi-Annual dividend, which was paid on Monday, September 18th. Shareholders of record on Friday, August 25th were issued a $0.029 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, August 24th. This represents a yield of 1.2%.

About AngloGold Ashanti

(Free Report)

AngloGold Ashanti plc operates as a gold mining company in Africa, the Americas, and Australia. The company explores for gold. Its flagship property is a 100% owned Geita project located in the Lake Victoria goldfields of the Mwanza region in north-western Tanzania. The company also owns 100% interest in the Iduapriem mine which covers 137 square kilometers located in the western region of Ghana; Obuasi project located in Ghana; AGA Mineracao in Brazil; Serra Grande located in central Brazil in the state of Goias; Greenfield Projects in the Beatty district in Nevada; and Sunrise Dam in Australia.

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Occidental Petroleum Co. (NYSE:OXY  Get Free Report) major shareholder Berkshire Hathaway Inc purchased 1,686,368 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, October 23rd. The stock was acquired at an average price of $62.80 per share, for a total transaction of $105,903,910.40. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 225,815,560 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $14,181,217,168. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Large shareholders that own at least 10% of a companys stock are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

Berkshire Hathaway Inc also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Wednesday, October 25th, Berkshire Hathaway Inc purchased 1,040,067 shares of Occidental Petroleum stock. The stock was acquired at an average price of $63.05 per share, for a total transaction of $65,576,224.35.

Occidental Petroleum Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:OXY traded up $0.74 on Wednesday, reaching $63.27. The companys stock had a trading volume of 6,636,394 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,175,257. Occidental Petroleum Co. has a 52-week low of $55.51 and a 52-week high of $76.11. The company has a market cap of $55.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.74, a PEG ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.73. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $63.93 and a 200 day simple moving average of $61.60. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.96, a quick ratio of 0.73 and a current ratio of 1.00.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Occidental Petroleum

Occidental Petroleum ( NYSE:OXY Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 2nd. The oil and gas producer reported $0.68 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.70 by ($0.02). Occidental Petroleum had a return on equity of 31.59% and a net margin of 21.36%. The business had revenue of $6.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.92 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $3.16 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 37.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Occidental Petroleum Co. will post 4.02 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Berkshire Hathaway Inc boosted its stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 8.9% during the 1st quarter. Berkshire Hathaway Inc now owns 211,707,119 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $13,216,875,000 after purchasing an additional 17,355,469 shares during the period. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Occidental Petroleum during the 4th quarter worth about $267,173,000. Bank of New York Mellon Corp boosted its stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 24.1% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 12,021,929 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $779,983,000 after purchasing an additional 2,334,651 shares during the period. Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. Can boosted its stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 228.9% during the 1st quarter. Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd. Can now owns 3,030,427 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $189,159,000 after purchasing an additional 2,108,927 shares during the period. Finally, First Trust Advisors LP boosted its stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 87.9% during the 1st quarter. First Trust Advisors LP now owns 3,276,078 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $185,885,000 after purchasing an additional 1,532,100 shares during the period. 77.54% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have weighed in on OXY shares. StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a sell rating on the stock. Mizuho raised their price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $75.00 to $76.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Monday, September 18th. Susquehanna raised their price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $72.00 to $78.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 18th. UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $72.00 to $74.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. Finally, Citigroup raised their price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $62.00 to $66.00 in a research report on Wednesday, September 20th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating, eight have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $70.76.

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Occidental Petroleum Company Profile

(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.

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First Horizon Advisors Inc. lowered its position in iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (BATS:IEFA  Free Report) by 3.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 162,824 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,092 shares during the quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc.s holdings in iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF were worth $10,991,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. MAS Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF by 5.0% during the first quarter. MAS Advisors LLC now owns 30,023 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,122,000 after acquiring an additional 1,434 shares during the period. Dakota Wealth Management increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF by 61.5% during the first quarter. Dakota Wealth Management now owns 6,034 shares of the companys stock valued at $419,000 after acquiring an additional 2,297 shares during the period. Prudential Financial Inc. increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF by 22.4% during the first quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 661,868 shares of the companys stock valued at $46,007,000 after acquiring an additional 121,118 shares during the period. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF by 3.0% during the first quarter. Laurel Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 8,577 shares of the companys stock valued at $596,000 after acquiring an additional 247 shares during the period. Finally, High Net Worth Advisory Group LLC increased its stake in shares of iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF by 3.5% during the first quarter. High Net Worth Advisory Group LLC now owns 74,317 shares of the companys stock valued at $5,160,000 after acquiring an additional 2,514 shares during the period.

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iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF Price Performance

Shares of BATS IEFA traded down $0.55 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $61.85. 13,211,392 shares of the company traded hands. iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF has a fifty-two week low of $56.55 and a fifty-two week high of $70.84. The firm has a market cap of $90.92 billion, a PE ratio of 12.29 and a beta of 0.87. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $64.96 and a 200-day simple moving average of $66.88.

About iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF

The iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF (IEFA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI EAFE IMI index, a market-cap-weighted index of developed-market stocks in Europe, Australasia and the Far East, and excludes North America IEFA was launched on Oct 18, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Cwm LLC decreased its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:IVV  Free Report) by 1.1% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,732,438 shares of the companys stock after selling 31,110 shares during the quarter. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF comprises about 7.5% of Cwm LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its largest position. Cwm LLC owned about 0.37% of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF worth $1,217,875,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 117,228.0% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 195,582,257 shares of the companys stock valued at $75,144,659,000 after buying an additional 195,415,560 shares during the period. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its stake in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 212,409.8% in the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 53,346,337 shares of the companys stock worth $23,776,996,000 after purchasing an additional 53,321,234 shares in the last quarter. Providence Capital Advisors LLC increased its holdings in iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 38,525.9% during the 1st quarter. Providence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 11,421,288 shares of the companys stock worth $27,783,000 after purchasing an additional 11,391,719 shares during the period. IMC Chicago LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 122.2% in the 2nd quarter. IMC Chicago LLC now owns 534,522 shares of the companys stock worth $238,242,000 after buying an additional 2,941,401 shares during the period. Finally, Citigroup Inc. grew its position in shares of iShares Core S&P 500 ETF by 2,989.6% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 2,619,850 shares of the companys stock worth $1,076,968,000 after buying an additional 2,535,055 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Stock Down 0.8 %

Shares of IVV stock traded down $3.21 on Thursday, hitting $416.30. The stock had a trading volume of 4,174,627 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,203,932. iShares Core S&P 500 ETF has a one year low of $370.31 and a one year high of $461.88. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $438.82 and a 200 day moving average price of $434.76. The company has a market cap of $322.07 billion, a PE ratio of 18.43 and a beta of 1.00.

About iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Standard & Poors 500 Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of the large-capitalization sector of the United States equity market.

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Two stories  from Zimbabwe and Nigeria  again illustrate the often complicated relationship between Africas mobile operators and its tax collectors.

In what might be good news for Zimbabwean operators  and customers  the Zimbabwean central bank has proposed removing a 2% tax on mobile money and digital transactions, saying it will boost electronic payments in the country.

Zimbabwe imposed the tax on mobile money, electronic, and bank transfer transactions in 2019.

However, as ITWeb Africa points out, the mobile money tax is proving a good source of income for the government at the moment, although operators may be heartened by the fact that not only the central bank but the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce wants an end to the mobile money levy.

There's less (potentially) positive news for pan-African operator the MTN Group, which has been ordered to pay US$72.6 million in back taxes for the period between 2007 and 2017, in Nigeria, its biggest market.

The order was issued this week by Nigeria's Tax Appeal Tribunal in Lagos, and follows a long-running story that began in 2021 when the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) issued a VAT assessment of US$93.5 million to MTN Nigeria in July 2021, which included US$72.5 million in principal liability and US$21million in penalties and interest on the principal sum.

Following an MTN Nigeria objection a revised assessment was issued. A second objection followed and was refused in June 2022. Now, the Nigerian Tax Appeal Tribunal has ruled in favour of FIRS and ordered MTN to settle the assessed tax liabilities.

The MTN Group is reportedly currently considering its response.
Mackenzie Financial Corp reduced its position in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSEARCA:EFA  Free Report) by 6.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 2,713,594 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 180,498 shares during the period. Mackenzie Financial Corp owned about 0.39% of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF worth $196,518,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 72.1% during the 1st quarter. Axiom Financial Strategies LLC now owns 11,841 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $808,000 after acquiring an additional 4,959 shares in the last quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF in the 1st quarter worth approximately $37,000. Vontobel Holding Ltd. raised its holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 83.6% in the 1st quarter. Vontobel Holding Ltd. now owns 23,000 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,693,000 after acquiring an additional 10,470 shares during the period. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management increased its stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 7.1% in the first quarter. Empirical Financial Services LLC d.b.a. Empirical Wealth Management now owns 13,970 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,028,000 after purchasing an additional 928 shares during the period. Finally, Federated Hermes Inc. grew its holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE ETF by 38.1% in the 1st quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 236,500 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $17,406,000 after buying an additional 65,200 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 77.78% of the companys stock.

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iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Stock Down 0.9 %

Shares of EFA traded down $0.60 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $65.92. 10,807,459 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 16,994,203. iShares MSCI EAFE ETF has a 1-year low of $58.06 and a 1-year high of $74.74. The stocks fifty day moving average is $69.57 and its 200 day moving average is $71.61.

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF Profile

iShares MSCI EAFE ETF, formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Funds investment objective is to seek investment results that correspond to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, MSCI EAFE Index (the Index). The Index has been developed by MSCI Inc as an equity benchmark for its international stock performance.

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Shares of Ithaca Energy plc (LON:ITH  Get Free Report) shot up 1.5% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as GBX 172.40 ($2.11) and last traded at GBX 167.40 ($2.05). 251,362 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 28% from the average session volume of 347,878 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 165 ($2.02).

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Barclays reiterated an underweight rating and set a GBX 165 ($2.02) price target on shares of Ithaca Energy in a report on Wednesday, July 12th.

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Ithaca Energy Price Performance

Ithaca Energy Dividend Announcement

The stocks 50 day simple moving average is GBX 162.43 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 157.59. The stock has a market cap of 1.63 billion and a price-to-earnings ratio of -541.33.

The firm also recently declared a dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 29th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, August 31st were paid a dividend of $0.13 per share. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, August 31st. This represents a yield of 6.33%. Ithaca Energys dividend payout ratio is currently -14,000.00%.

Ithaca Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Ithaca Energy plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas in the North Sea. The company own a portfolio of assets located in Northern and Central North Sea, Moray Firth, and West of Shetland area of the UKCS. Ithaca Energy plc was formerly known as Delek North Sea Limited and changed its name to Ithaca Energy plc in October 2022.

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Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (NYSEAMERICAN:NAK  Get Free Report) (TSE:NDM)s share price passed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $0.00 and traded as high as $0.35. Northern Dynasty Minerals shares last traded at $0.34, with a volume of 1,100,020 shares changing hands.

Northern Dynasty Minerals Stock Performance

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Northern Dynasty Minerals (NYSEAMERICAN:NAK  Get Free Report) (TSE:NDM) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 15th. The mining company reported ($0.01) earnings per share for the quarter. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. will post -0.04 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in NAK. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. grew its stake in Northern Dynasty Minerals by 13.3% during the first quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 13,253,421 shares of the mining companys stock worth $3,165,000 after buying an additional 1,557,604 shares during the period. Renaissance Technologies LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Northern Dynasty Minerals by 355.9% during the 2nd quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 1,300,770 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $312,000 after acquiring an additional 1,015,421 shares in the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC increased its holdings in Northern Dynasty Minerals by 358.9% in the 4th quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 780,384 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $172,000 after purchasing an additional 610,335 shares in the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN raised its position in Northern Dynasty Minerals by 121.8% in the second quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 364,164 shares of the mining companys stock valued at $87,000 after purchasing an additional 200,000 shares during the period. Finally, Quintet Private Bank Europe S.A. acquired a new position in shares of Northern Dynasty Minerals during the first quarter worth about $59,000. 9.25% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Northern Dynasty Minerals

Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. engages in the exploration of mineral properties in the United States. It holds a 100% interest in the Pebble Copper-Gold-Molybdenum-Silver-Rhenium project comprising 1,840 mineral claims that covers an area of approximately 274 square miles located in southwest Alaska, the United States.

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Cortland Associates Inc. MO lessened its stake in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 16.4% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 7,336 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 1,434 shares during the quarter. Cortland Associates Inc. MOs holdings in Pfizer were worth $269,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of PFE. 25 LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the first quarter worth about $25,000. Worth Asset Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Pfizer in the 1st quarter worth about $29,000. Macroview Investment Management LLC raised its stake in Pfizer by 70.0% during the first quarter. Macroview Investment Management LLC now owns 962 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $39,000 after acquiring an additional 396 shares during the period. GeoWealth Management LLC bought a new position in Pfizer in the first quarter worth about $49,000. Finally, Sanctuary Wealth Management L.L.C. acquired a new position in Pfizer during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $50,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.05% of the companys stock.

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Pfizer Price Performance

Shares of PFE traded up $0.34 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $31.07. 15,153,451 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 25,010,529. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $33.86 and a 200-day simple moving average of $36.43. The company has a market capitalization of $175.42 billion, a PE ratio of 8.30, a PEG ratio of 2.11 and a beta of 0.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62, a current ratio of 2.12 and a quick ratio of 1.82. Pfizer Inc. has a one year low of $30.22 and a one year high of $54.93.

Pfizer Announces Dividend

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.57 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $12.73 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.36 billion. Pfizer had a return on equity of 28.36% and a net margin of 27.55%. Pfizers revenue for the quarter was down 54.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $2.04 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 1.6 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 4th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 10th will be issued a dividend of $0.41 per share. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 9th. This represents a $1.64 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.28%. Pfizers dividend payout ratio is currently 43.62%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on PFE shares. Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on shares of Pfizer from $40.00 to $39.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 17th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and issued a $75.00 target price on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Monday, October 2nd. HSBC assumed coverage on Pfizer in a report on Friday, July 14th. They set a buy rating and a $50.00 price target on the stock. Citigroup cut their target price on Pfizer from $42.00 to $35.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 16th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on Pfizer in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Twelve analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and six have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $42.67.

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Pfizer Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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RFG Advisory LLC cut its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF (BATS:USMV  Free Report) by 4.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 51,508 shares of the companys stock after selling 2,620 shares during the period. RFG Advisory LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF were worth $3,829,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in USMV. Bank of Montreal Can grew its position in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 7.8% during the 1st quarter. Bank of Montreal Can now owns 8,253 shares of the companys stock worth $646,000 after acquiring an additional 594 shares during the last quarter. Blair William & Co. IL grew its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 1.7% in the first quarter. Blair William & Co. IL now owns 95,612 shares of the companys stock worth $7,417,000 after purchasing an additional 1,612 shares during the last quarter. AJ Wealth Strategies LLC raised its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF by 4.4% during the 1st quarter. AJ Wealth Strategies LLC now owns 1,348,690 shares of the companys stock valued at $104,618,000 after buying an additional 57,434 shares during the last quarter. Founders Financial Securities LLC raised its holdings in 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 buying an additional 18,853 shares during the last quarter. Finally, West Michigan Advisors LLC boosted 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 valued at $975,000 after buying an additional 719 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI USA Min Vol Factor ETF Trading Down 0.2 %

Shares of USMV stock traded down $0.16 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $71.69. The stock had a trading volume of 6,153,158 shares. The firm has a market capitalization of $27.50 billion, a PE ratio of 20.17 and a beta of 0.75. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $73.65 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $73.66. 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 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.

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ServiceNow (NYSE:NOW  Get Free Report) had its price objective raised by investment analysts at Stifel Nicolaus from $640.00 to $650.00 in a report released on Thursday, Benzinga reports. The firm presently has a buy rating on the information technology services providers stock. Stifel Nicolaus price objective would suggest a potential upside of 17.98% from the companys previous close.

Several other equities research analysts have also issued reports on NOW. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on ServiceNow from $525.00 to $650.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, July 26th. Citigroup cut their price objective on shares of ServiceNow from $734.00 to $700.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 19th. Barclays decreased their target price on shares of ServiceNow from $646.00 to $644.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on shares of ServiceNow from $630.00 to $648.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday. Finally, StockNews.com began coverage on shares of ServiceNow in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirty-one have assigned a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $604.52.

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ServiceNow Stock Up 3.9 %

Shares of NYSE:NOW traded up $20.78 during trading on Thursday, reaching $550.95. 3,521,786 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,417,931. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $565.44 and a 200 day simple moving average of $540.21. The company has a quick ratio of 1.14, a current ratio of 1.14 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. ServiceNow has a 1-year low of $351.25 and a 1-year high of $614.36. The firm has a market cap of $112.25 billion, a P/E ratio of 79.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.62 and a beta of 1.01.

ServiceNow (NYSE:NOW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, July 26th. The information technology services provider reported $0.77 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.43 by $0.34. ServiceNow had a return on equity of 11.07% and a net margin of 17.76%. The firm had revenue of $2.15 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $2.13 billion. Analysts anticipate that ServiceNow will post 3.59 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at ServiceNow

In other news, General Counsel Russell S. Elmer sold 91 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, August 18th. The shares were sold at an average price of $535.10, for a total value of $48,694.10. Following the completion of the transaction, the general counsel now owns 4,225 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,260,797.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. In other news, General Counsel Russell S. Elmer sold 91 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $535.10, for a total value of $48,694.10. Following the sale, the general counsel now directly owns 4,225 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,260,797.50. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, CFO Gina Mastantuono sold 386 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $554.89, for a total value of $214,187.54. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 9,102 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,050,608.78. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 17,192 shares of company stock worth $9,722,355. 0.24% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On ServiceNow

Several large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its stake in ServiceNow by 96,156.9% during the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 23,469,361 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $13,189,077,000 after buying an additional 23,444,979 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its stake in shares of ServiceNow by 2.0% in the second quarter. State Street Corp now owns 8,240,319 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $4,630,812,000 after acquiring an additional 158,165 shares during the last quarter. Morgan Stanley boosted its holdings in shares of ServiceNow by 4.3% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 7,071,786 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $2,745,763,000 after acquiring an additional 288,522 shares in the last quarter. Capital International Investors grew its position in ServiceNow by 3.2% during the 2nd quarter. Capital International Investors now owns 4,060,299 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $2,281,477,000 after acquiring an additional 126,326 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in ServiceNow by 3.1% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,702,485 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $2,074,319,000 after purchasing an additional 112,544 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 87.14% of the companys stock.

About ServiceNow

(Get Free Report)

ServiceNow, Inc provides enterprise cloud computing solutions that defines, structures, consolidates, manages, and automates services for enterprises worldwide. The company operates the Now platform for workflow automation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotic process automation, process mining, performance analytics, electronic service catalogs and portals, configuration management systems, data benchmarking, encryption, and collaboration and development tools.

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WPP plc (NYSE:WPP  Get Free Report) saw a large growth in short interest in the month of October. As of October 15th, there was short interest totalling 120,700 shares, a growth of 84.8% from the September 30th total of 65,300 shares. Based on an average trading volume of 126,700 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 1.0 days. Currently, 0.1% of the companys shares are short sold.

Institutional Trading of WPP

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC increased its holdings in shares of WPP by 187.0% during the third quarter. Tower Research Capital LLC TRC now owns 617 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $25,000 after acquiring an additional 402 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC raised its holdings in WPP by 85.1% in the 2nd quarter. CWM LLC now owns 583 shares of the business services providers stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 268 shares during the last quarter. International Assets Investment Management LLC bought a new position in WPP in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Ridgewood Investments LLC purchased a new stake in WPP during the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, Nemes Rush Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of WPP in the 2nd quarter worth $38,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 4.34% of the companys stock.

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WPP Stock Down 0.7 %

Shares of NYSE:WPP traded down $0.28 during midday trading on Thursday, reaching $41.30. The companys stock had a trading volume of 135,919 shares, compared to its average volume of 104,216. WPP has a 12-month low of $41.13 and a 12-month high of $64.07. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $45.76 and a 200-day moving average of $50.97.

WPP Cuts Dividend

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

The business also recently declared a semi-annual dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 13th will be given a $0.9536 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 12th. This represents a dividend yield of 4.9%.

Several brokerages have weighed in on WPP. BNP Paribas downgraded WPP from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 20th. The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded shares of WPP from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, September 28th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered WPP from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 8th. StockNews.com raised WPP from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Bank of America cut their price target on shares of WPP to $46.00 in a report on Wednesday, September 20th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, WPP has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $756.00.

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WPP Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

WPP plc, a creative transformation company, provides communications, experience, commerce, and technology services in North America, the United Kingdom, Western Continental Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe. The company operates through three segments: Global Integrated Agencies, Public Relations, and Specialist Agencies.

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Teekay Tankers Ltd. (NYSE:TNK  Get Free Report) shares passed above its two hundred day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a two hundred day moving average of $40.07 and traded as high as $45.95. Teekay Tankers shares last traded at $45.53, with a volume of 622,112 shares.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have weighed in on the company. StockNews.com cut Teekay Tankers from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 11th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price target on Teekay Tankers from $51.00 to $54.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, August 3rd.

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Get Our Latest Analysis on Teekay Tankers

Teekay Tankers Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $1.65 billion, a PE ratio of 3.07, a PEG ratio of 1.11 and a beta of -0.07. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13, a quick ratio of 2.70 and a current ratio of 3.09. The businesss 50-day moving average is $41.07 and its 200-day moving average is $40.12.

Teekay Tankers (NYSE:TNK  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, August 3rd. The shipping company reported $4.38 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $4.28 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $370.70 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $242.67 million. Teekay Tankers had a net margin of 37.90% and a return on equity of 46.25%. The businesss revenue was up 52.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business earned $0.76 earnings per share. On average, research analysts anticipate that Teekay Tankers Ltd. will post 13.63 earnings per share for the current year.

Teekay Tankers Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, August 25th. Investors of record on Monday, August 14th were given a dividend of $0.25 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, August 11th. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.06%. This is an increase from Teekay Tankerss previous quarterly dividend of $0.24. Teekay Tankerss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 6.45%.

Institutional Trading of Teekay Tankers

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. CWM LLC boosted its position in shares of Teekay Tankers by 10,816.7% during the third quarter. CWM LLC now owns 655 shares of the shipping companys stock valued at $27,000 after buying an additional 649 shares during the last quarter. BluePath Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Teekay Tankers during the third quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Fifth Third Bancorp purchased a new position in shares of Teekay Tankers during the first quarter valued at approximately $42,000. FMR LLC grew its position in Teekay Tankers by 41.9% in the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 1,019 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $44,000 after purchasing an additional 301 shares during the period. Finally, Ahrens Investment Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Teekay Tankers during the 1st quarter valued at $48,000. Institutional investors own 48.68% of the companys stock.

Teekay Tankers Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Teekay Tankers Ltd. provides marine transportation services to oil industries in Bermuda and internationally. The company offers voyage and time charter services; and offshore ship-to-ship transfer services of commodities primarily crude oil and refined oil products, as well as liquid gases and various other products.

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TFI International (NYSE:TFII  Get Free Report) had its target price dropped by equities research analysts at Stifel Nicolaus from $144.00 to $140.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday, Benzinga reports. The brokerage presently has a buy rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus price target would suggest a potential upside of 29.03% from the companys previous close.

A number of other brokerages have also recently weighed in on TFII. BMO Capital Markets dropped their price target on TFI International from $127.00 to $122.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. National Bankshares dropped their target price on TFI International from $191.00 to $178.00 and set a sector perform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. National Bank Financial cut TFI International from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 1st. Credit Suisse Group upped their price target on shares of TFI International from $121.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, Desjardins cut their price objective on shares of TFI International from $192.00 to $182.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fifteen have issued a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $151.90.

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Read Our Latest Research Report on TFII

TFI International Stock Performance

TFI International stock traded down $0.33 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $108.50. The companys stock had a trading volume of 431,727 shares, compared to its average volume of 275,209. The firm has a market cap of $9.32 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 18.01, a PEG ratio of 1.94 and a beta of 1.52. TFI International has a twelve month low of $85.86 and a twelve month high of $138.16. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $127.67 and a 200-day moving average price of $118.86. The company has a current ratio of 1.23, a quick ratio of 1.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60.

TFI International (NYSE:TFII  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 23rd. The company reported $1.57 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.73 by ($0.16). The business had revenue of $1.91 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.88 billion. TFI International had a net margin of 7.02% and a return on equity of 21.38%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 14.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.01 earnings per share. Sell-side analysts predict that TFI International will post 6.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On TFI International

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Assetmark Inc. boosted its stake in shares of TFI International by 86.7% during the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 11,783 shares of the companys stock worth $1,406,000 after acquiring an additional 5,473 shares in the last quarter. Hood River Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of TFI International by 4.4% in the 1st quarter. Hood River Capital Management LLC now owns 571,958 shares of the companys stock valued at $68,229,000 after purchasing an additional 23,971 shares during the period. Canoe Financial LP purchased a new position in TFI International in the 1st quarter worth about $3,231,000. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC purchased a new position in TFI International in the 1st quarter worth about $56,000. Finally, Achmea Investment Management B.V. raised its holdings in TFI International by 23.8% during the 2nd quarter. Achmea Investment Management B.V. now owns 63,929 shares of the companys stock worth $7,291,000 after buying an additional 12,280 shares during the period. 60.32% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

TFI International Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

TFI International Inc provides transportation and logistics services in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The company operates through Package and Courier, Less-Than-Truckload (LTL), Truckload (TL), and Logistics segments. The Package and Courier segment engages in the pickup, transport, and delivery of items.

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Coldstream Capital Management Inc. lowered its stake in The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) by 2.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 63,263 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock after selling 1,435 shares during the quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc.s holdings in TJX Companies were worth $5,364,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Householder Group Estate & Retirement Specialist LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Tucker Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $25,000. ZRC Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Finally, ICA Group Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.28% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other TJX Companies news, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 45,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $89.04, for a total value of $4,006,800.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 642,098 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $57,172,405.92. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 45,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $89.04, for a total transaction of $4,006,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 642,098 shares in the company, valued at approximately $57,172,405.92. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Chairman Carol Meyrowitz sold 64,817 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.13, for a total value of $5,906,773.21. Following the sale, the chairman now owns 135,050 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,307,106.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 114,014 shares of company stock valued at $10,291,303 in the last three months. Insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have recently commented on the company. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on TJX Companies from $93.00 to $99.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their price target on TJX Companies from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, September 11th. Piper Sandler started coverage on TJX Companies in a report on Thursday, June 29th. They issued an overweight rating and a $110.00 price target on the stock. BMO Capital Markets lifted their target price on TJX Companies from $85.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on TJX Companies in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $95.42.

View Our Latest Report on TJX

TJX Companies Trading Down 0.1 %

Shares of TJX Companies stock traded down $0.09 on Thursday, reaching $88.86. 775,688 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,896,093. The firm has a market capitalization of $101.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.09, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 0.89. The TJX Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $69.93 and a fifty-two week high of $93.78. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $89.98 and a 200-day moving average price of $84.34.

TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 16th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $0.85 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.77 by $0.08. TJX Companies had a return on equity of 62.61% and a net margin of 7.77%. The firm had revenue of $12.76 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.45 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.69 earnings per share. TJX Companiess quarterly revenue was up 7.7% on a year-over-year basis. On average, analysts expect that The TJX Companies, Inc. will post 3.71 EPS for the current year.

TJX Companies Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 30th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, November 9th will be given a $0.3325 dividend. This represents a $1.33 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.50%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 8th. TJX Companiess payout ratio is currently 39.00%.

TJX Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The TJX Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. The company sells family apparel, including footwear and accessories; home fashions, such as home basics, furniture, rugs, lighting products, giftware, soft home products, decorative accessories, tabletop, and cookware, as well as expanded pet, and gourmet food departments; jewelry and accessories; and other merchandise.

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Google Cloud has revealed plans to build two new transpacific subsea cables for the South Pacific connecting Fiji and French Polynesia to the United States and Australia.

Billed as the South Pacific Connect initiative, the project aims to increase reliability and resilience of digital connectivity in the Pacific Islands.

One cable, Honomoana, will connect the US and Australia to French Polynesia. The second cable, Tabua, will connect the US and Australia to Fiji.

The South Pacific Connect initiative will also construct physically diverse cable landing stations in Fiji and French Polynesia and connect them with an interlink cable. That cable serves to connect transpacific routes, improve reliability, add capacity, and reduce latency for users in the Pacific Islands and globally.

The South Pacific Connect initiative will create a ring between Australia, Fiji and French Polynesia, said Brian Quigley, VP of global network infrastructure at Google Cloud in a blog post. This ring will include pre-positioned branching units that will allow other countries and territories of Oceania to take advantage of the reliability and resilience resulting from the initiative.

Google Cloud is building the cables in collaboration with In collaboration with Fiji International Telecommunications, Office of Posts and Telecommunications of French Polynesia, APTelecom and Vocus Group.

No timeline for the initiative has been announced yet.
Forbes J M & Co. LLP lessened its holdings in The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) by 18.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 117,796 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock after selling 27,374 shares during the period. TJX Companies makes up 1.2% of Forbes J M & Co. LLPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 28th largest position. Forbes J M & Co. LLPs holdings in TJX Companies were worth $9,988,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Adero Partners LLC lifted its stake in shares of TJX Companies by 4.5% in the 2nd quarter. Adero Partners LLC now owns 2,807 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $238,000 after purchasing an additional 121 shares during the last quarter. Chatham Capital Group Inc. lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter. Chatham Capital Group Inc. now owns 7,627 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $647,000 after acquiring an additional 125 shares in the last quarter. Alpha Financial Partners LLC lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 2.5% during the 1st quarter. Alpha Financial Partners LLC now owns 5,337 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $418,000 after acquiring an additional 129 shares in the last quarter. Tradition Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. Tradition Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,672 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $288,000 after acquiring an additional 132 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Schear Investment Advisers LLC lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 1.5% during the 2nd quarter. Schear Investment Advisers LLC now owns 9,205 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $780,000 after acquiring an additional 139 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.28% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 45,000 shares of TJX Companies stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $89.04, for a total transaction of $4,006,800.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now directly owns 642,098 shares of the companys stock, valued at $57,172,405.92. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, EVP Kenneth Canestrari sold 4,197 shares of TJX Companies stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $90.00, for a total value of $377,730.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 115,223 shares of the companys stock, valued at $10,370,070. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 45,000 shares of TJX Companies stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $89.04, for a total value of $4,006,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 642,098 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $57,172,405.92. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last ninety days, insiders sold 114,014 shares of company stock valued at $10,291,303. 0.13% of the stock is owned by insiders.

TJX Companies Price Performance

Shares of TJX traded down $0.09 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $88.86. The companys stock had a trading volume of 775,688 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,896,093. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. The firm has a 50-day simple moving average of $89.98 and a 200 day simple moving average of $84.34. The firm has a market capitalization of $101.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.09, a P/E/G ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 0.89. The TJX Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $69.93 and a 1-year high of $93.78.

TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, August 16th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $0.85 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.77 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $12.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $12.45 billion. TJX Companies had a return on equity of 62.61% and a net margin of 7.77%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.69 EPS. Analysts predict that The TJX Companies, Inc. will post 3.71 EPS for the current fiscal year.

TJX Companies Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 30th. Investors of record on Thursday, November 9th will be issued a dividend of $0.3325 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 8th. This represents a $1.33 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.50%. TJX Companiess dividend payout ratio is presently 39.00%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. StockNews.com assumed coverage on TJX Companies in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Citigroup increased their target price on TJX Companies from $90.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on TJX Companies from $88.00 to $92.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday, September 11th. Loop Capital increased their price target on TJX Companies from $100.00 to $105.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 6th. Finally, Bank of America increased their price target on TJX Companies from $94.00 to $102.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $95.42.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on TJX

TJX Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The TJX Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. The company sells family apparel, including footwear and accessories; home fashions, such as home basics, furniture, rugs, lighting products, giftware, soft home products, decorative accessories, tabletop, and cookware, as well as expanded pet, and gourmet food departments; jewelry and accessories; and other merchandise.

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Valmont Industries (NYSE:VMI  Get Free Report) released its earnings results on Wednesday. The industrial products company reported $4.12 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.70 by $0.42, Briefing.com reports. Valmont Industries had a return on equity of 19.56% and a net margin of 6.37%. The firm had revenue of $1.05 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.12 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $3.49 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. Valmont Industries updated its FY23 guidance to $14.80-15.10 EPS.

Valmont Industries Trading Down 11.9 %

Shares of VMI stock traded down $27.45 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $203.86. The companys stock had a trading volume of 267,542 shares, compared to its average volume of 155,825. The company has a quick ratio of 1.43, a current ratio of 2.41 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.28 billion, a PE ratio of 16.49, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.25 and a beta of 1.09. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $241.46 and its 200-day simple moving average is $267.38. Valmont Industries has a 12-month low of $199.94 and a 12-month high of $353.36.

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Valmont Industries Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 16th. Investors of record on Friday, September 29th were issued a $0.60 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, September 28th. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.18%. Valmont Industriess payout ratio is 18.63%.

Institutional Trading of Valmont Industries

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in VMI. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its stake in Valmont Industries by 10.3% during the 2nd quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 3,772 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $1,097,000 after purchasing an additional 351 shares in the last quarter. Wambolt & Associates LLC boosted its stake in shares of Valmont Industries by 6.5% during the 2nd quarter. Wambolt & Associates LLC now owns 2,477 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $721,000 after buying an additional 152 shares during the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. grew its position in shares of Valmont Industries by 5.0% during the second quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 31,927 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $9,292,000 after buying an additional 1,520 shares in the last quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN increased its stake in shares of Valmont Industries by 4.3% in the second quarter. Wells Fargo & Company MN now owns 6,485 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,887,000 after buying an additional 267 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Trail Ridge Investment Advisors LLC bought a new position in Valmont Industries during the 2nd quarter valued at $341,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 84.15% of the companys stock.

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on VMI shares. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Valmont Industries in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Northcoast Research downgraded shares of Valmont Industries from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday. DA Davidson lowered their price objective on shares of Valmont Industries from $310.00 to $290.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 31st. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus dropped their price objective on Valmont Industries from $334.00 to $298.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 10th.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on VMI

Valmont Industries Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Valmont Industries, Inc produces and sells metal products in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Denmark, and internationally. The company operates through two segments: Infrastructure and Agriculture. It manufactures and distributes steel, pre-stressed concrete, composite, and hybrid structures for lighting, transportation, and telecommunications equipment, as well as electrical transmission, distribution, substations, and renewable energy generation equipment; and provides coatings services to preserve metal products.

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Van ECK Associates Corp raised its position in Polaris Inc. (NYSE:PII  Free Report) by 22.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,238,254 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 410,140 shares during the quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp owned 3.95% of Polaris worth $270,672,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in PII. Vigilant Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Polaris during the first quarter valued at approximately $28,000. Money Concepts Capital Corp lifted its holdings in shares of Polaris by 89.1% in the 4th quarter. Money Concepts Capital Corp now owns 312 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 147 shares during the last quarter. Ten Capital Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Polaris in the 1st quarter valued at $46,000. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. purchased a new stake in Polaris during the first quarter valued at about $47,000. Finally, Orion Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Polaris during the first quarter valued at about $49,000. 87.36% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Polaris news, CFO Robert Paul Mack sold 8,312 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $130.00, for a total transaction of $1,080,560.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 28,356 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,686,280. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other Polaris news, CFO Robert Paul Mack sold 8,312 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, August 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $130.00, for a total transaction of $1,080,560.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 28,356 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,686,280. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Kevin M. Farr sold 3,225 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, August 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $133.28, for a total transaction of $429,828.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 14,645 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,951,885.60. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 2.75% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on PII shares. Raymond James lowered Polaris from a strong-buy rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 18th. KeyCorp dropped their price objective on Polaris from $145.00 to $115.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Truist Financial decreased their price target on shares of Polaris from $125.00 to $100.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday. Robert W. Baird decreased their price target on shares of Polaris from $140.00 to $125.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on shares of Polaris from $120.00 to $103.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Thirteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $111.77.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on PII

Polaris Stock Performance

Shares of PII traded down $1.66 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $85.19. The stock had a trading volume of 500,840 shares, compared to its average volume of 591,808. Polaris Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $84.69 and a fifty-two week high of $138.49. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.24, a quick ratio of 0.36 and a current ratio of 1.25. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $104.23 and a 200 day moving average price of $112.66. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.83 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.49 and a beta of 1.67.

Polaris (NYSE:PII  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The company reported $2.71 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $2.71. The firm had revenue of $2.25 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.26 billion. Polaris had a net margin of 6.57% and a return on equity of 51.02%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 3.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.25 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Polaris Inc. will post 9.8 EPS for the current year.

Polaris Profile

(Free Report)

Polaris Inc designs, engineers, manufactures, and markets powersports vehicles worldwide. It operates through three segments: Off-Road, On-Road, and Marine. The company offers off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles and side-by-side vehicles; military and commercial ORVs; snowmobiles; motorcycles; moto-roadsters, quadricycles, and boats; and aftermarket parts and apparel.

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Van Hulzen Asset Management LLC increased its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU  Free Report) by 0.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 269,717 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 1,539 shares during the period. Van Hulzen Asset Management LLCs holdings in iShares Gold Trust were worth $9,815,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in IAU. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich lifted its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 72,670.4% during the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 689,886,989 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $25,104,988,000 after purchasing an additional 688,938,957 shares during the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in iShares Gold Trust by 413,629.4% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 28,998,294 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,003,051,000 after buying an additional 28,991,285 shares during the period. Empower Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in iShares Gold Trust during the 1st quarter valued at about $520,181,000. Gateway Advisory LLC boosted its position in iShares Gold Trust by 5,751.9% in the 1st quarter. Gateway Advisory LLC now owns 6,551,529 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $6,552,000 after buying an additional 6,439,573 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can bought a new position in iShares Gold Trust in the 2nd quarter worth about $175,383,000. 58.45% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares Gold Trust Stock Performance

Shares of NYSEARCA:IAU traded down $0.05 during trading on Thursday, reaching $37.46. 2,379,265 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 5,142,525. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $36.15 and its 200-day simple moving average is $36.82. iShares Gold Trust has a 12-month low of $30.69 and a 12-month high of $39.04.

iShares Gold Trust Company Profile

iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust.

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Vedanta Resources plc (LON:VED  Get Free Report)s stock price passed above its 200-day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 200-day moving average of GBX 832.60 ($10.20) and traded as high as GBX 838 ($10.27). Vedanta Resources shares last traded at GBX 832.60 ($10.20), with a volume of 162,101 shares changing hands.

Vedanta Resources Price Performance

The company has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 832.60 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 832.60.

Vedanta Resources Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Vedanta Resources plc operates as a diversified natural resources company in India, Zambia, South Africa, Namibia, the United Arab Emirates, Ireland, Australia, and Liberia. It primarily produces zinc, lead, silver, copper, iron ore, and aluminum deposits. The company also explores for, extracts, and processes minerals, as well as oil and gas.

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WealthShield Partners LLC lessened its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Co. (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 17.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 20,312 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 4,209 shares during the quarter. WealthShield Partners LLCs holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $1,916,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of EW. Castleview Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. Core Alternative Capital increased its holdings in Edwards Lifesciences by 96.1% in the 1st quarter. Core Alternative Capital now owns 353 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 173 shares during the last quarter. Altshuler Shaham Ltd bought a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences in the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Compass Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp bought a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences in the 1st quarter valued at $33,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.25% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Catherine M. Szyman sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $78.64, for a total transaction of $393,200.00. Following the transaction, the vice president now directly owns 34,814 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,737,772.96. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In other news, VP Catherine M. Szyman sold 5,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $78.64, for a total value of $393,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 34,814 shares in the company, valued at $2,737,772.96. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, insider Larry L. Wood sold 8,660 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $70.00, for a total transaction of $606,200.00. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now owns 213,794 shares of the companys stock, valued at $14,965,580. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 184,359 shares of company stock valued at $13,817,172. Corporate insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

EW has been the topic of a number of research reports. Piper Sandler reduced their price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $88.00 to $83.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Friday, September 8th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $96.00 price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Thursday, August 17th. Oppenheimer upgraded shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $90.00 price target on the stock in a report on Tuesday, September 26th. SVB Leerink started coverage on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Monday, October 16th. They issued a market perform rating and a $75.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating and issued a $102.00 price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Friday, July 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and eight have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Edwards Lifesciences presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $90.00.

Get Our Latest Analysis on EW

Edwards Lifesciences Stock Down 6.9 %

Shares of NYSE EW traded down $4.73 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $63.61. 4,214,201 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,300,986. The company has a quick ratio of 2.30, a current ratio of 3.15 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09. The company has a market cap of $38.67 billion, a PE ratio of 28.37, a PEG ratio of 3.48 and a beta of 1.05. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $72.87 and a 200-day moving average price of $82.04. Edwards Lifesciences Co. has a 12 month low of $61.50 and a 12 month high of $94.87.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 25th. The medical research company reported $0.59 EPS for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $0.59. The business had revenue of $1.48 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.48 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 24.56% and a return on equity of 25.43%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 12.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.61 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Edwards Lifesciences Co. will post 2.55 EPS for the current year.

Edwards Lifesciences Company Profile

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease, and critical care and surgical monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of heart valves; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases.

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Xerox (NYSE:XRX  Get Free Report) posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday. The information technology services provider reported $0.46 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.35 by $0.11, MarketWatch Earnings reports. The business had revenue of $1.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.73 billion. Xerox had a net margin of 2.55% and a return on equity of 11.59%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 5.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.19 earnings per share.

Xerox Stock Down 3.7 %

Shares of NYSE:XRX opened at $12.10 on Thursday. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $15.44 and a 200 day simple moving average of $15.14. Xerox has a 52 week low of $12.06 and a 52 week high of $18.00. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.98, a quick ratio of 0.88 and a current ratio of 1.12. The company has a market cap of $1.90 billion, a PE ratio of 11.63 and a beta of 1.64.

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Xerox Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, January 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 29th will be issued a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 8.27%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 28th. Xeroxs payout ratio is 96.15%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of analysts have recently commented on XRX shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on Xerox from $16.00 to $15.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Xerox in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on shares of Xerox from $13.00 to $12.00 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $13.50.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Xerox

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, major shareholder Carl C. Icahn sold 34,245,314 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.84, for a total value of $542,445,773.76. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other news, major shareholder Carl C. Icahn sold 34,245,314 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $15.84, for a total value of $542,445,773.76. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Suzan Morno-Wade sold 9,126 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $16.75, for a total transaction of $152,860.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 46,323 shares of the companys stock, valued at $775,910.25. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.38% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Prudential Financial Inc. increased its holdings in Xerox by 6.3% in the first quarter. Prudential Financial Inc. now owns 310,741 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $6,267,000 after buying an additional 18,430 shares during the last quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Xerox by 4.2% in the 1st quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 94,246 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $1,901,000 after purchasing an additional 3,812 shares during the last quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp boosted its holdings in Xerox by 26.6% in the first quarter. Mackenzie Financial Corp now owns 17,350 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $350,000 after purchasing an additional 3,650 shares in the last quarter. Covestor Ltd increased its position in Xerox by 36.3% during the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 6,575 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $133,000 after buying an additional 1,751 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sei Investments Co. lifted its position in shares of Xerox by 113.7% in the first quarter. Sei Investments Co. now owns 54,203 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $966,000 after buying an additional 28,837 shares during the last quarter. 83.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Xerox

(Get Free Report)

Xerox Holdings Corporation, a workplace technology company, designs, develops, and sells document management systems and solutions in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, India, and internationally. It offers workplace solutions, including desktop monochrome, and color and multifunction printers; digital printing presses and light production devices, and solutions; and digital services that leverage workflow automation, personalization and communication software, content management solutions, and digitization services.

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The growing importance of fibre connectivity in India is underlined by a new deal this week between Indias Tata Play Fiber and infrastructure tech giant Nokia.

Nokia has announced that it has entered into an agreement with Tata Play Fiber  a subsidiary of DTH satellite company Tata Play that is building pan-India fibre-to-the-home (FTTH) broadband infrastructure  to launch Indias first Wi-Fi 6-ready broadband network.

With increasing broadband usage in both residential and enterprise areas, say the partners, there is significant demand for new, high-capacity broadband connections.

Nokia will supply Tata Play Fiber with a range of FTTH and Wi-Fi gear to support its broadband network expansion across India. Specifically, Nokia will provide its state-of-the-art optical line terminal (OLT), optical network terminal (ONT) with Wi-Fi 6, and Wi-Fi mesh beacons.

Nokia says the easy-to-install solution supports low-latency applications such as gaming and can deliver gigabit speeds to multiple devices on the Wi-Fi network. Network security is also enhanced, with support for the Wi-Fi Alliance-endorsed WPA3 standard.

A key feature of the Nokia solution is its mesh technology, which will ensure seamless coverage for large customer premises and areas with barriers like concrete walls.

Nokia says its Wi-Fi 6 mesh technology is ideally suited to residential homes with large and/or multi-floor spaces, as well as for SOHO enterprises, which represent a large addressable market in India.

The Nokia solution also uses AI/ML software to identify traffic patterns, faults and potential outages in the GPON network so as to optimise the end user experience.
Pallavi Singhal is a Correspondent at Moneycontrol.com covering commerce and agriculture. With a total experience of five years, she has reported on varied subjects covering crime, courts, civic affairs, health & politics. Human interest and feature stories have always piqued her interest.
you are here:
Abhishek Sahu covers HR and Education (Careers) at Moneycontrol. He can be reached at Abhishek.Sahu@nw18.com and @Abhishek44sahu.
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In this edition of Moneycontrol Pro Panorama: Merging fintech with banks wont solve problems, challenges for investors during e...

Earlier this week, a group of 20 founders and CXOs from some of Indias biggest start-ups backed by SoftBank engaged in discussions with top executives of leading artificial intelligence (AI) firms in Silicon Valley. The meetings come at a time when SoftBank has begun to invest actively again, with a focus on the AI trend. SoftBanks AI focus It has also been egging portfolio companies across sectors, such as frontier tech, edtech, health tech, logistics, and fintech among others, to see how they...

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Santosh Nair is Executive Editor, Special Projects, Moneycontrol. He has been writing on the financial markets for over two decades, having previously worked with Business Standard, myiris.com, Crisil Market Wire and The Economic Times. He is also the author of the popular book on Indian markets, Bulls, Bears and Other Beasts.
After the carnage on Dalal Street with the Nifty50 hitting 200-day EMA (exponential moving average of 18,830) for the first time since April this year and the formation of Three Black Crows candlestick pattern on the daily charts, the bearish pattern, will there be more correction or any possibility of bounce back given the momentum indicator RSI (relative strength index at 26.74 levels) looking oversold?

According to experts, any rebound is unlikely to be sustainable in the near term given the bearish sentiment and the index can drift towards 18,600-18,500 in the coming days.

"One may observe three long bear candles in the last three sessions, which is indicating a bearish three black crows pattern, which signals a downtrend continuation pattern for the short term," Nagaraj Shetti, technical research analyst at HDFC Securities said.

The Nifty50 plunged 1.4 percent or 265 points to 18,857 on October 26, the expiry day for the monthly futures and options contracts, but the breadth has seen some improvement compared to the previous two sessions. Three shares declined for every two rising shares on the NSE on October 26, against 12 shares declined for every rising share on October 23.

"Though the Nifty is placed at the key moving average supports, still there is no indication of any reversal pattern building up at the lows," Nagaraj feels.

The negative pattern like lower tops and bottoms of a larger degree is intact on the daily chart and the market finding support to form a new lower bottom of the sequence. Still, there is no indication of any bottom formation at the lows, he says.

Hence, he feels the short-term trend of Nifty continues to be negative. "Having moved into an oversold region, there is a chance of upside bounce occurring from the lows. A decisive move below 18,800 levels could open the next downside of 18,500-18,600 levels in the near term," Nagaraj said.

Jatin Gedia, technical research analyst at Sharekhan by BNP Paribas said considering that Nifty has reached a support zone and is appearing oversold on the hourly charts, one can expect a pullback till 19,00019,050, however, it is likely to be only a temporary pause in the overall downtrend.

On the downside, he feels the Nifty is likely to drift towards 18,500 levels in the short term. And the intermediate pullbacks should be used as a selling opportunity, he advised.

The BSE Sensex tanked over 900 points to 63,148, while on the broader markets front, the Nifty Midcap 100 index fell 1.2 percent and Smallcap 100 index was down 0.3 percent.

We have collated 15 data points to help you spot profitable trades:

Note: The open interest (OI) and volume data of stocks are the aggregates of three-month data and not just the current month.

Key support and resistance levels on Nifty

The pivot point calculator indicates that the Nifty may take support at 18,834, followed by 18,786 and 18,708. On the higher side, 18,990 can be the immediate resistance followed by 19,038 and 19,116.

Nifty Bank

On October 26, the Bank Nifty also extended selling pressure for the third consecutive session and formed Three Black Crows candlestick pattern on the daily timeframe. The index is very close to its near-term support of the 42,000 mark, which coincides with a long upward-sloping support trendline. If the index breaks the same then there could be more downtrend in the index, but given the RSI looking oversold (25.80 levels), the possibility of a rebound can't be ruled out in the coming session, experts said.

The index dropped 552 points or 1.3 percent to 42,280.

"Bank Nifty is heading towards the psychological support of the 42000. The fall has been very sharp and is appearing oversold which increases the probability of a pullback. The pullback can be expected till 42,500  42,600 however it is unlikely to result in a trend reversal," Jatin Gedia said.

Overall, he feels the trend is negative and expects it to target levels of 40,850 from a short-term perspective.

As per the pivot point calculator, the banking index is expected to take support at 42,134, followed by 41,990 and 41,756. On the upside, the initial resistance is at 42,601, then at 42,745 and at 42,978.

Call options data

As per monthly options data, the maximum Call open interest (OI) was at 18,900 strike with 1.01 crore contracts, which can act as a key resistance for the Nifty. It was followed by the 20,000 strike, which had 82.72 lakh contracts, while the 19,000 strike had 78.54 lakh contracts.

Meaningful Call writing was seen at 18,900 strike, which added 1 crore contracts, followed by 19,000 and 18,800 strikes, which added 63.87 lakh and 52.45 lakh contracts.

Maximum Call unwinding was visible at 19,200 strike, which shed 72.56 lakh contracts, followed by 19,300 and 19,400 strikes, which shed 72.14 lakh and 60.03 lakh contracts.

Put option data

On the Put side, the maximum open interest was at 18,800 strike with 1.03 crore contracts, which can act as key support for the Nifty in the coming sessions.

It was followed by 18,500 strike comprising 65.51 lakh contracts and 18,000 strike with 53.25 lakh contracts.

Meaningful Put writing was at 18,800 strike, which added 31.56 lakh contracts followed by 18,500 strike and 18,400 strike, which added 15.58 lakh and 7.22 lakh contracts.

Put unwinding was at 19,000 strike, which shed 1.05 crore contracts followed by 19,100 strike and 19,200 strike, which shed 61.3 lakh and 32.43 lakh contracts.

Stocks with high delivery percentage

A high delivery percentage suggests that investors are showing interest in the stock. UltraTech Cement, Hindustan Unilever, Dabur India, Larsen & Toubro and Godrej Consumer Products saw the highest delivery among the F&O stocks.

Rollovers

Here are the top 10 stocks which saw the highest rollovers on the monthly expiry day including SBI Cards & Payment Services, Adani Ports, PI Industries, Ambuja Cements and Alkem Laboratories with over 98 percent rollovers.

1 stock see a long build-up

A long build-up was seen in Punjab National Bank. An increase in open interest (OI) and price indicates a build-up of long positions.

155 stocks see long unwinding

Based on the OI percentage, 155 stocks, including Dr Lal PathLabs, Delta Corp, RBL Bank, Navin Fluorine International and ONGC saw a long unwinding. A decline in OI and price indicates long unwinding.

8 stocks see a short build-up

A short build-up was seen in 8 stocks, including HDFC Bank, Indian Hotels, Manappuram Finance, DLF, and IndusInd Bank. An increase in OI along with a fall in price points to a build-up of short positions.

23 stocks see short-covering

Based on the OI percentage, 23 stocks were on the short-covering list including Laurus Labs, Samvardhana Motherson International, MCX India, M&M Financial Services and Bosch. A decrease in OI along with a price increase is an indication of short-covering.

Bulk deals

For more bulk deals, click here

Results on October 27 and October 28

Stocks in the news

Axis Bank: The private sector lender said the board of directors has approved the appointment of Munish Sharda as a Whole-time Director, designated as Executive Director of Axis Bank, for three years, with effect from November 1.

Colgate Palmolive: The oral care company has registered a 22.3 percent on-year growth in profit at Rs 340 crore for the quarter ended September FY24, driven by strong and better-than-expected EBITDA margin driven by pricing and efficiencies. Revenue from operations grew by 6 percent year-on-year to Rs 1,471 crore for the quarter.

Lemon Tree Hotels: The company has signed a license agreement for a 50-room property in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh under the brand Red Fox Hotels. The hotel is expected to be operational by FY 2026.

Kamat Hotels: The company has concluded the sale of its unit Hotel IRA by Orchid in Mumbai, to Lateral Hospitality for Rs 125 crore.

NLC India: The coal mining company has recorded consolidated profit at Rs 1,085 crore for the quarter ended September FY24, rising 164 percent on-year due to a one-time gain of Rs 1,278.5 crore. Revenue from operations for the quarter at Rs 2,978 crore fell by 14.66 percent compared to the same period last year.

Karnataka Bank: The bank said the board has approved the allotment of Rs 800 crore worth of shares to HDFC Life, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance, Quant MF, Bharti AXA Life Insurance and Bajaj Allianz General Insurance on a preferential basis.

Fund Flow (Rs Crore)

FII and DII data

Foreign institutional investors sold shares worth Rs 7,702.53 crore, while domestic institutional investors bought Rs 6,558.45 crore worth of stocks on October 26, provisional data from the National Stock Exchange showed.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips expressed by experts on Moneycontrol are their own and not those of the website or its management. Moneycontrol advises users to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

Disclaimer: MoneyControl is a part of the Network18 group. Network18 is controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.
Jinit Parmar is a correspondent based out of Mumbai covering banks, banking trends and more, tweets @jinitparmar10 #banks #bankingtrends #RBI
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_
Souptik Datta Reports real estate, infra and city in Bengaluru. Btw, curiosity never kills the cat.
Mehul R Thakkar is Special Correspondent, Moneycontrol, Indias leading financial news platform, based in Mumbai where he is focussed on covering the real estate sector.
Mansi Verma covers Edtech, Agritech, Venture Capital, Job and employment trends under the Tech and Startup team
Manish M. Suvarna is Senior Correspondent at Moneycontrol. He writes on the Indian money markets, RBI, Banks and NBFCs. He tweets at @manishsuvarna15. Contact: Manish.Suvarna@nw18.com
Shubham Raj has six years of experience covering capital markets. He primarily writes on stocks with special focus on F&O and PMS-AIF industry.
October 26, 2023 / 03:39 PM IST

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat expressed his views, stating, "The Ashok Gehlot government has achieved all the milestones of corruption and has made new benchmarks. A series of paper leaks took place in Rajasthan putting the future of lakhs of youth in darkness. 70 lakh youth of Rajasthan suffered due to continuous 19 paper leaks... Most of them belonged to poor and Dalit families that were full of hope... The main point here is that from the 1st till the 19th paper leak, the people in power seemed to cover up the paper leaks... CM Gehlot said that such incidents are normal and happen in other states too. Then he said that he would order an inquiry... Then he said that no government official was involved in it..."
Javier Blas is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist covering energy and commodities. He previously was commodities editor at the Financial Times and is the coauthor of "The World for Sale: Money, Power, and the Traders Who Barter the Earths Resources."
Marc Champion writes editorials on international affairs. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.
OCT. 26

The DAV Wiregrass Chapter 99 (New Brockton) October 2023 meeting will be Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will take place in the New Brockton Senior Center, New Brockton. Also, Chapter 99 maintains a help desk located at the New Brockton Town Hall. Hours of operation are 9 to 11 a.m. every Wednesday. This is a free service to anyone desiring help with a VA claim. For further information contact Charles Lobdell at 334-718-5707 or Mike Doran at 334-406-6700.

OCT. 26

A Consumer Awareness luncheon sponsored by the Wiregrass Chapter of the National Active and Retired Federal Employee Association is Oct. 26 at 11 a.m. at the Enterprise Country Club, 3000 Ozark Highway in Enterprise. Guest speaker is Jazmyn Frazier, Executive Director of Kelley Place and Madison Heights Memory Care in Enterprise. For more information please contact Frank Zerbinos at (334)447-8092.

OCT. 26, 27 & 28

The Friends of the Enterprise Library invite the public to the fall book sale at the Enterprise Library Oct. 26, 27, and 28. Thursday is Friends of the Library Members Only day from 2 until 6 p.m. You can purchase a new membership at that time or renew your current membership on Thursday. Friday and Saturday the sale is open to the public from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Saturday. All funds raised go to benefit the librarys programs and services.

OCT. 27 & 28

The Daleville High School JROTC is hosting the Warhawks Tales of Terror Haunted House and Trunk or Treat Food and Fun Fair Oct. 27 and 28. The fundraising event from 5 until 6 p.m. for a Spook Lights on tour and Full Scare tours are from 6 until 11 p.m. at the JROTC Building in front of the school located at 626 Daleville Avenue in Daleville.

OCT. 27 & 28

Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama invites everyone to the Ma-Chis Lower Creek Indian Tribe of Alabama Pow Wow Oct. 27 and 28 which will be held for the first time on our tribal land located at 2950 County Road 377, Elba. The event runs from time 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. The entrance fee is $1 for everyone. Please bring your lawn chair and dress comfortable. There will be demonstrators, vendors from various tribes throughout southeast United States. Come out and enjoy Indian Fry bread, arts, and crafts. For additional information contact Chief James Wright at the following machiscreeks@outlook.com or call (334) 897-3207, or (334) 449-0607.

OCT. 28

M. Reynolds Lennear, a graduate of Slocomb High School and Troy University, will sign copies of her new book, The Place Called There: A Spiritual Journey, at the Slocomb Public Library from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28. As an alumnus of Slocomb High School, she is very proud to be called a Redtop! She is a graduate of Troy University with a bachelors degree in psychology and a minor in Global Business. She also maintains Diversity, Equity and Inclusion certifications from the University of South Florida.

OCT. 28

The Southeast Alabama Coalition for the Homeless (SEACH) will sponsor a Homeless Connect & Point-In-Time Count event in Dothan on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to noon at the OCHEC Building, 1001 Montana St., in Dothan. Those who are homeless or at-risk for homelessness can attend for resources for food and clothing, housing, legal assistance, healthcare, mental health resources, job placement and more. Lunch will be provided.

Nov. 1

The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive on Wednesday, Nov. 1, 2023 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the College Avenue Church of Christ in Enterprise (211 W. College St.). The event will take place in the Fellowship Hall. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. All donors will receive a $10 e-gift card to the restaurant merchant of ones choice. There is currently a national blood shortage. The Red Cross national blood supply has fallen by about 25% since early August. Right now, blood product distributions to hospitals are outpacing the number of blood donations coming in. Please give the gift of life. Each donation saves up to 3 lives. Even if you have been turned down before, you may be eligible to donate, as the FDA has recently lifted many restrictions on overseas travel.

DEC. 7

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, is sponsoring a free community-wide health-care forum and listening session, Preventing & Managing Chronic Diseases in Children and Adults, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 7. A panel of medical professionals will focus on heart disease, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, strokes, asthma, ADHD, and sickle cell disease. Dr. Kenneth C. Brown, Ozark Pediatric Clinic, is a presenter and moderator. If you or family members, including children, have been diagnosed with any one of these diseases, we urge your attendance. Health screenings will also be available to include sickle cell disease, blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure, vision, and hearing. A vaccine clinic available for flu, pneumonia, and covid vaccinations (please bring your insurance cards). All of Us Research Program representatives will be present to inform, educate, and enroll guests in the ongoing research program whose goal is to help researchers understand more about why people get sick or stay healthy. Door prizes include $25 and $50 gift cards and more. Vendors include local health care providers and agencies. Lunch will be provided. For more information, or to reserve seating please call 334-792-4618.

APRIL 9, 2024

The Harlem Globetrotters bring the 2024 world tour to the Dothan Civic Center on Tuesday, April 9. Harlem Globetrotters fans can score the best seats at https://www.tixr.com/groups/dcc/globetrotters beginning Oct. 16, 2023, at 10 a.m. Presale tickets are available beginning Oct. 9 at 10:00 a.m. with code LoveDothan at https://www.tixr.com/groups/dcc/globetrotters.

ONGOING

The Gen. William C. Oates Chapter No. 1342 of the United Daughters of the Confederacy meets the second Thursday from September through May. Women ages 18 and older who have ancestors who fought in the Civil War are eligible for membership, and help will be provided to prove your first Confederate ancestors lineage. For meeting locations and information, call Ceya Minder at 334-794-7480 or email ceya.minder@gmail.com.

Sons of Confederate Veterans, General William C. Oates Chapter meets on the third Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Anyone who is interested in Confederate history is invited to attend. Genealogy help will be provided to connect you with your Confederate ancestor. For more information contact Joe Rich, 334-791-2450, or email SCVDOTHAN3@GMAIL.COM

The Ray of Hope Grief Support Group meets the first Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. at Parks Chapel A.M.E. Church, located at 1053 E. Selma St., Dothan. The purpose of the group is to assist those struggling with issues of grief and loss, including but not limited to, death of a loved one, loss of relationships, etc. The meeting is free and open to the public. For more information, call 334-794-4811 or 850-692-1618.

The Greater Dothan Area Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of the month at noon at the Old Mill Restaurant on Murphy Mill Road in Dothan. For more information, contact Lori Perkins at 334-803-0319.

Concerned Citizens of the Wiregrass will meet the second Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at Shoneys on the Ross Clark Circle in Dothan. Grievances and problems within the county will be addressed and information on how to make improvements via county officials, etc. Bring your friends and as many as possible.

The South Alabama Liberty Foundation will meet at 6:30 p.m. every first Tuesday of the month at Wiregrass Outdoors, located at 818 N. Ouida St. in Enterprise. The nonpartisan group advocates that liberty  along with peace, justice, and freedom  belongs to every American to appreciate and enjoy as written in the U.S. Constitution, and that this is possible only with an honest, fair, and well-regulated government that respects its citizens. No reservations necessary, and admission is free. Email SA-Liberty@proton.me for more information.

Land of Cotton Smocking Guild meets the second Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at Piney Grove Assembly of God Church, 206 County Road 9 in Wicksburg. The guild is involved in a Wee Care Project, creating preemie gowns, garments for infants in NICU, and bereavement pouches. For more information, contact Carol Ann Pileggi at 850-516-9960 or Joann Carpenter at 334- 790-8328.

Enterprise Military Support Group will not meet in June and July. If anyone needs to talk, call Dr. Granger at 334-447-2252 or John Logsdon at 334-806-2636.

The Kiwanis Club of Dothan meets every Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. at the Dothan Country Club, located at 200 S. Cherokee Ave. in Dothan. Anyone may attend as a guest of the Kiwanis. If you plan to attend, contact the club via kiwanisdothan.com or call 334-355-6877.

The Columbia Historical Society meets every third Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Train Depot on Highway 52. All guests are welcome.

The Columbia Historical Museum will be open the second Saturday monthly from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 105 S. Main St. in Columbia.

The Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary Dothan Unit #87 will meet every third Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at Harvest Church, located at 2727 Fortner St. in Dothan. The group will meet in the Main Cafe located in the churchs Building A. Call 334-596-9610 for more information.

Dothan Newcomers Club, a social organization, meets the first Thursday of the month in the fellowship hall of First Christian Church, 1401 N. Cherokee Ave. Social time begins at 9:30 a.m., followed by the business meeting at 10 a.m. The club is open to individuals who have moved into the Dothan or Wiregrass area within the past five years or who have faced a change in status (retirement, death of a spouse, divorce) within the past five years. For more information, visit www.dothannewcomers.com, or Facebook @DothanNewcomers, or contact Elaine Brackin, president, via email at dncpresident3@gmail.com.

Alcoholics Anonymous holds regular meetings in the Wiregrass including Ashford, Dothan, Eufaula, and Headland under the organizations District 10 (www.aadothan.org) meeting locations and Andalusia, Daleville, Enterprise, Level Plains, Opp, Ozark, and Troy under the organizations District 11 (www.district11aa.com) meeting locations. Visit www.aaarea1.org for a complete list of districts for Alabama and Northwest Florida.

A Disabled American Veterans chapter service officer will be located at the New Brockton Town Hall every Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. Any veteran needing help with a VA claim is welcome. This is on a walk-in basis; no appointment is needed. For more information, contact Mike Doran at 334-406-6700.

The DAV van service for local veterans will make runs to Montgomery and Tuskegee on Mondays and Fridays. The van will leave from the Hardees restaurant on Rucker Boulevard in Enterprise at 5 a.m. and from the Dothan Civic Center at 5:30 a.m. Due to COVID restrictions, there is only space for four riders each trip. Veterans who need rides to VA hospitals in Montgomery or Tuskegee can call 334-308-2480 to reserve a seat on the Enterprise van or 334-446-0866 for the Dothan van.

Square Dancing will be held every Monday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Enterprise YMCA, located on Highway 27 across from Hobby Lobby in Enterprise. Singles and couples welcomed. Never danced? Theyll teach you. For more information, call 334-237-0466 or 334-347-4513.

The Landmark Dulcimer Club has a jam and practice session every first Saturday of the month at 1 p.m. You do not have to know how to read music. We prefer you bring your own Mountain Dulcimer but we do have a few practice dulcimers you can borrow if you want to give it a try. The event is free with paid gate admission. Show your instrument and get in for free. Meets in the Interpretive Center Auditorium.

Landmark Park hosts a Reptile Feeding every first Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the Interpretive Center Lobby. The event is free with paid gate admission. Meet our snakes and turtles and learn why these animals are so important to the environment.

The Wiregrass Woodturners host a club meeting and woodturning demo every second Saturday of the month at 9:30 a.m. in the Interpretive Center Classroom at Landmark Park. The public is invited to visit and learn how to make beautiful wooden items turned on a lathe. The event is free with paid gate admission. Wiregrass Woodturner members get in free.

The Evening Star Quilt Guild gathers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every second Saturday for an informal sewing circle with your textile-based crafts at the Landmark Park Sit and Sew in the Interpretive Center Auditorium. The event is free with paid gate admission. The circle is free for Quilt Guild members. Space is limited, first come first served.

Pickin in the Park takes place every second Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. Join musicians at Landmark Park in Dothan for a bluegrass, country and gospel jam session. Visitors are welcome to listen or participate. The event is free with paid gate admission. Show your instrument at the gate to receive free admission. All ages and skill levels are welcome.

The Landmark Park Antique Tractor Club will meet on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in the Interpretive Center Library at Landmark Park. This club has been established as a way for tractor enthusiasts to come together to share pictures of tractors, share interesting articles, trade/sell and enjoy the fellowship. The club participates in several tractor shows and tractor pulls during the year. To become a member, visit the meeting or email David Jay, david@landmarkparkdothan.com. The event is free with paid gate admission. Mention this meeting at the gate to receive free park admission.

Landmark Park admission will be waived every fifth Saturday of the month.
A Newville man accused of killing a pregnant Florida teen in May was indicted by a Houston County grand jury last week.

According to court records, Marquis Devan McCloud, 33, of Newville, was indicted on Tuesday, Oct. 17, for one count of capital murder-two or more persons and one count of capital murder-kidnapping in the deaths of Anastasia Gilley and her four-month-old fetus.

Gilley, 19, went missing from her Jackson County home on Wednesday, May 3, and her body was discovered in a field off Headland Avenue one week later on May 10.

Houston County Sheriffs Sergeant Ricky Herring testified in July that McCloud picked Gilley up to take her to a friends house in the early morning hours of May 4. However, McCloud instead drove her to Dothan, where he shot her multiple times in the 5000 block of Headland Avenue.

During the preliminary stages of the investigation, officials identified McCloud as the suspect and began questioning him about Gilleys disappearance. Houston County Sheriff Donald Valenza said McCloud was uncooperative.

McCloud has a lengthy criminal record that includes charges such as rape, armed robbery, and making terroristic threats. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, he is also a registered sex offender once accused of living too close to an elementary school.

Under these charges, McCloud faces life in prison or the death penalty. Houston County District Attorney Russ Goodman said he would seek death for McCloud if convicted.
Welcome to AI Weekly, where we delve into the cutting-edge and ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence and bring you concise yet comprehensive summaries of the most exciting AI developments.

Apples Generative AI in iOS 18

Apple is making strides to introduce generative AI technology into its iOS ecosystem, with an anticipated release as early as late 2024. The company is gearing up by building a substantial infrastructure of AIservers over the next two years, with a focus on offering a mix of both cloud-based and on-device AI solutions. This move closely aligns with the launch of iOS 18, promising significant enhancements to the Apple ecosystem.

Microsofts 365 Copilot: Revolutionizing meetings

Microsofts 365 Copilot, unveiled on March 16, 2023, is a cutting-edge AI assistant embedded within Microsoft 365 applications, Edge, and Windows. Leveraging OpenAIs GPT-4 language models, it aims to streamline meeting summaries and is on its way to becoming an integral part of Microsofts cybersecurity suite. This innovative tool is projected to save valuable time, potentially freeing up to 40% for users, previously spent on mundane security tasks.

Seven Network and Databricks: Personalized advertising with AI

The Seven Network has entered a groundbreaking partnership with Databricks, a global leader in cloud, data, and AI technologies. This collaboration seeks to enhance contextual and relevant advertising experiences for their audience. This strategic move positions Seven Network as a pioneering figure in the integration of AI within the media industry, building upon its recent achievements in personalized recommendations and content discovery through Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Zebra Technologies: On-device generative AI with Qualcomm

Zebra Technologies has demonstrated a breakthrough in AI by successfully running a Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) large language model on Zebra handheld mobile devices and tablets, all without requiring cloud connectivity. This development offers a range of capabilities across various industries, enabling improved worker engagement and customer experiences, all while ensuring heightened security and reduced operational costs.

Lenovos vision of AI for All

At Lenovos 9th annual global innovation event, Tech World, the company unveiled a comprehensive vision of AI for All. Lenovo aims to harness the power of AI for every individual and organization, from edge to cloud. Their approach to hybrid AI involves the coexistence of public, private, and personal foundation models to facilitate AI accessibility. Lenovo assures data security and user privacy, as AI operates exclusively within devices or secure on-premises servers, offering both security and personalization benefits.

Chinese banks and the AI transition

Chinese banks are embracing artificial intelligence to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance efficiency. This transition has been influenced by the AI-driven innovations, such as ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI with support from Microsoft. The banking sector is following suit in integrating AI into daily operations, reflecting the broader impact of AI across industries.

Generative AIs ascendancy according to report

Arthur D. Littles Blue Shift Institute has published a significant report on Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI), highlighting its ever-expanding impact across sectors. The report emphasizes the tremendous potential of GenAI, showing that it consistently meets or surpasses human performance in an array of tasks, such as language understanding, inference, and text summarization. Despite its evident potential, many business executives are yet to fully grasp the revolutionary implications for business, society, and humanity.

Deel introduces Deel IQ: An AI-powered global work assistant

Deel, the all-in-one HR platform for global teams, has launched Deel IQ, a global work assistant driven by AI. This innovative solution empowers employers, from startups to enterprises, by providing instant insights into local laws, HR best practices, and workforce data from over 150 countries.

Deel IQ leverages OpenAIs ChatGPT and is fortified by Deels Global Knowledge Base, a resource developed by a team of 200 local HR experts and lawyers. This resource offers accurate information on local laws and best practices across the globe, ensuring regulatory compliance for organizations, irrespective of their employees locations.

Stay tuned for more AI related news as we bring you the latest AI advancements and their impact on various industries.

Keep up to date with our stories on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Signage is seen at the Marriott Royal Aurora hotel in Moscow, Russia June 3, 2022. Photo by Reuters

International Marriott wants to open 20 more hotels and resorts in Vietnam to further tap the countrys great tourism potential, said its chairman and CEO Anthony Capuano.

The potential is due to its geographical location and unique culture, which makes many tourists want to return to the country, Anthony Capuano said at a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi on Wednesday.

The U.S.-based hospitality company, which currently manages 16 hotels and resorts under eight brands such as JW Marriott, Le Meridien and Sheraton, plans to open more of them in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City, and Phu Quoc Island.

Chinh said Vietnam advocates rapid and sustainable development of tourism, considering it an important economic sector, and his government creates the most favorable conditions for investors.

He said Marriott should expand its investment with large projects that are appropriate for Vietnamese conditions and attractive to international tourists, collaborate for training and developing high-quality human resources, connect Vietnamese tourism with the rest of the world, and diversify tourism products and supply chains.

Capuano promised him that Marriott would cooperate in these areas.

Founded in 1927, the worlds largest hotel chain has 8,000 properties with nearly 1.5 million rooms in 139 countries and territories.
Build Mr. Olympia Arms! Routines and Tips From the Top Champions

Written by Ron Harris

26 October 2023

Build Mr. Olympia Arms!

Routines and Tips From the Top Champions

By Ron Harris

Bodybuilders have been obsessed with building huge arms since the very beginning, and exceptional biceps and triceps development has always been a prerequisite for any man hoping to step onto the Mr. Olympia stage. Some of the greatest guns of all time have belonged to Mr. Olympia champions like Larry Scott, Sergio Oliva, Arnold, Ronnie, and Phil Heath. The men heading to Orlando in hopes of leaving with a Sandow trophy are all fully loaded with astonishing arms. We have compiled the routines and best tips from the top contenders heading to the 2023 Mr. Olympia for your inspiration and edification. Read on and see what you can take to the gym to get your own bis and trisexploding with new size!

HADI CHOOPAN

Arm Workout

Dumbbell Curls - 2 x 10 + 10

(10 reps are done with the left arm, then 10 with the right)

EZ-Bar Curls - 2 x 20, 15

Rope Curls From High Pulley - 2 x 10

(Elbows at shoulder level, upper arms parallel to floor)

Alternate Dumbbell Hammer Curls - 2 x 10

(Curls across body toward opposite shoulder)

Rope Pushdowns - 2 x 10

One-Arm Reverse Pushdowns - 2 x 10

One-Arm Overhead Dumbbell Extensions - 3 x 10, each arm

(With pause in stretch position at start of each rep)

Overhead Rope Extensions - 2 x 12

(Ropes are spread apart for first 4-5 reps, held together for remainder)

Close-Grip Push-Ups - 2 x failure

Pullovers/Skull-Crushers -n3 x 12

(Done with arms lowered behind head, elbows lowered, third and final set goes into a close-grip press)

2 Different Workouts Per Week

Hadi likes to perform two different types of workouts each week for all body parts. The first is strength training, with heavier weights, lower reps, and two to three minutes rest between sets. On the other day, its all about hypertrophy. The reps and volume are both higher, and rest periods are limited to 30-60 seconds. This faster pace also gets my heart rate up and burns more body fat, he says.

DEREK LUNSFORD

Arm Workout

Cable Pushdowns - Warm-up: 2 x 15-20; sets: 4 x 12-15

Close-Grip Bench Press - Warm-up: 1 x 15; sets: 4 x 8-12

Overhead Cable or Dumbbell Extensions - 4 x 12-15

One-Arm Cable or Dumbbell Curls - 4 x 12-15

Alternate Dumbbell or Preacher Curls - 4 x 8-10

Machine Curls - 4 x 12-15

2 Tips for Great Guns From Derek

1. Perfect Form Isnt Always Ideal

For a while I was training with people who stressed that you had to keep your form textbook perfect from the first rep of every set to the last. Eventually I came to the realization that even though perfect form is a good idea most of the time, if you never allow yourself to stray from it, you will be missing out on going a little heavier and getting a few more reps out of the muscle. It makes more sense to me to tax the muscle with perfect form until it cant do any more, and then use a little bit of heave to force that muscle even deeper past its limits. Thats been working very well for me.

2. Do Exercises That Are Best for You

You need to figure out which exercises are suited to your particular needs, instead of just doing what someone else is doing. For my biceps, that turned out to be dumbbell curls, hammer curls, preacher and EZ-bar curls, and concentration curls. The triceps movements I found worked best for me were rope pushdowns, overhead cable extensions, close-grip bench presses, and plate-loaded dip machines.

SAMSON DAUDA

Arm Workout

Rope Pushdowns - 4 x 15*

Superset with

Hammer Strength Preacher Curl Machine - 4 x 15

*Final superset is a double drop set of each exercise for 10, 10, and 10 reps for a total of 30

Seated Dip Machine - 4 x 15

Superset with

Dumbbell Hammer Curls - 4 x 10*

*Rather than alternate arms, Samson prefers to do all 10 reps with his right arm, then do all 10 with his left

Overhead Rope Extensions - 4 x 12*

Superset with

Standing EZ-Bar Curls - 4 x 12

*Samson positions an incline bench set to a low angle with his head facing the weight stack to provide the proper angle for this movement. On the first cable movement earlier, he keeps the cables together. Here, he spreads the ropes apart as he extends on each rep.

Training Notes

Preacher Curl Machine

I like to start off with these just to get my joints warmed up, because especially in the off-season, I tend to get very stiff elbows. It takes me a few sets to get warmed up and the blood flowing in there. A lot of times I will start using both arms, but once I feel really warmed up, I will switch to one arm at a time.

Cable Pushdowns

I always start nice and light on this one because the elbows should never just jump right into any heavy resistance on an extension movement. Thats how you get chronic elbow pain and inflammation. As the sets go on, I keep increasing the weight.

On Alternating Biceps and Triceps Movements/Supersetting

I used to do all my biceps or triceps movements before moving on to the other muscle group, but I found I got better results by going back and forth between. This way, youre not expending as much energy on one and potentially taking away from the muscle group that gets worked second in the routine. I also find I can go a bit heavier as one muscle group gets time to recover while the other is being worked.

Dumbbell Hammer Curls

The popular style to do these is to alternate arms, but I like to keep the tension on one arm at a time by doing all the reps for it before switching to the other arm.

NICK WALKER

Early Training Blunders

Nick can tell you exactly when he decided he wanted enormous arms. I saw a video of Jay Cutler doing curls, and I said right then and there I wanted arms that big someday. Full of youthful enthusiasm, teenage Nick went more than a little overboard in his quest. I trained arms twice a week, and the workouts would be three hours long, he reveals. I would do so many exercises, all for higher reps of 15-20, and I averaged about eight sets each for every exercise. As time went by, Nick began to learn how his body responded to different training variables, and he discovered that with his arms, more was definitely not better.

Why He Feels Less Is More

The one thing that was probably holding my arm growth back the most was having a dedicated arm day, Nick explains. The arms are always working indirectly whenever you train chest, back, and shoulders, so adding a whole day where you just annihilate them is probably counterproductive for most people. It was for me for sure.

After years of hammering arms that way, Nick began working them with much less volume after a larger body part like chest, back, or shoulders. Lo and behold, they grew into the outrageous guns you see today.

You have to remember that if a muscle cant recover properly, it wont grow, and I know for me having that arm day on top of everything else was holding them back. In fact, if you check out Nicks current training split, you will see that he probably does a good deal less for his 23-inch arms than the rest of us whose arms have half the mass of his. Let that sink in, and perhaps you may reconsider what youre doing for your own arms and give his briefer style a try.

Arm Workout

Biceps

Cable Curls - 2 x 12-15

Barbell Curl 21s - 3 x 21

Preacher Curls - 5 x 10-12 (rest only 30 seconds between sets)

Triceps

Cable Pushdowns - 2 x 12-15

Skull-Crushers - 2 x 10-12

Dip Machine - 5 x 10-12 (rest only 30 seconds between sets)

ANDREW JACKED

Arm Workout

General Warm-up:

Pull-ups - 3 sets of 20 reps

Dips - 3 sets of 20 reps

Triceps Warm-up:

One-Arm Overhead Rope Extensions - 3 x 15, each arm

Biceps Warm-up

One-Arm Cable Curls - 3 x 15, each arm

V-Bar Cable Pushdowns - 5 x 15-20

Barbell Curls (grip wider than shoulders) - 5 x 15

Straight-Bar Skull-Crushers (close grip) - 5 x 15

Spider Curls With Straight Bar - 5 x 10-15

(Leaning over incline bench)

Training Notes

One-Arm Cable Curls

I start every rep with my hand behind my hip and my biceps in the fully stretched position. I firmly believe a full range of motion is what will deliver the best results.

V-Bar Cable Pushdowns

You will hear some people tell you to stand straight upright and close to the weight stack, while others will advise stepping back away from the stack and leaning forward. I will often do both of those body positions in the same workout because I find you can contract your triceps maximally with all of them. I do notice that I can go heavier when I step back away from the weight stack and lean my torso forward.

Skull-Crushers

Usually on at least one of my sets of skull-crushers, I will go right into a close-grip bench press for a maximum pump.

Frequency and Volume

Andrew was only training arms once every two weeks at one point as they were growing too fast and overpowering other body parts. He does not recommend such infrequent arm work unless you too are in that same position, which obviously doesnt apply to most of us. Andrew also only does two exercises each for biceps and triceps, while most people would probably benefit from doing three or four.

MICHAL KRIZO KRIZANEK

Arm Workout

Rope Pushdowns (leaning forward and spreading ropes) - 4 x 15

Close-Grip Bench Press - 4 x 12

Dumbbell Skull-Crushers - 4 x 12

One-Arm Rope Pushdowns - 4 x 12, each arm

One-Arm Dumbbell Preacher Curls - 3 x 15, each arm

Standing Cable Curl s - 3 x 15

Dumbbell Hammer Curls, Alternating Arms - 3 x 12

Why Triceps First?

Triceps is the bigger muscle, twice as big as the biceps. It consumes more oxygen and fills up with more blood when you train it. I also do more overall volume for triceps, four sets of three exercises as opposed to three sets each exercise for my biceps.

BRANDON CURRY

Arm Workout

Incline Curls-3-4 x 12-20





Drag Curls - 3-4 x 12-20





Preacher Curl Machine -3 x 12-20

Smith Machine Close Grip-Bench Press - 3-4 x 12-20





Machine Dips - 3-4 x 12-20





Preacher Curl Machine - 3-4 x 12-20

Other Exercises Brandon Likes and Why

Barbell drag curls. There is no way you can swing or heave the bar and take tension off the biceps. By dragging the bar up your torso to the bottom of your chest, the tension stays on your biceps 100%.

Incline dumbbell curls. A lot of guys dont get a full range of motion on curls because they fail to lower the weight into a full stretch for the biceps. This exercise starts off in the stretch position.

Triceps extensions. I dont do these the standard way, flat on a bench with my head and body supported. I prefer having my head and shoulders off the bench, as in a pullover, so I get a much deeper stretch for the triceps and thus a more complete range of motion.

Dip machine. As you get a lot bigger, dips on bars can put a lot of stress on areas like your shoulder joints. The machine allows me to position myself in such a way that the stress goes entirely to my triceps where I want it.

BIG RAMY

Workout in Egypt

Barbell Curls - 3 x 15, 12, 10

Skull-Crushers (straight bar) - 2 x 10, 15

EZ-Bar Curls (close grip) - 3 x 10, 12, 8

Triceps Pushdowns - 3 x 10 slow, 10 fast = 20

Alternate Dumbbell Curls - 2 x 15

(5 for left, 5 for right, 3 for left, 3 for right, 3 for left, 3 for right, then alternate for 4 final reps each arm)

Rope Pushdown Triple Drops - 3 x 7, 7, and 7 reps plus 3 forced reps

Hammer Curls - 2 x 16 (8 reps up to deltoid, then 8 across body)

(8 reps up to delt, then 8 reps across body  does all 16 reps for one arm, then all 16 for the other)

Workout at Oxygen Gym in Kuwait

Preacher Machine Curls- 4 x 10-15

Rope Pushdowns- 4 x 10-15

EZ-Bar Curls- 3 x 10-15

Seated Cable Triceps Extensions - 3 x 10-15

Incline EZ-Bar Curls- 3 x 10-15

Lying Triceps Extensions - 3 x 10-15

One-Arm Machine Curls- 3 x 10-15

Underhand Pushdowns- 3 x 10-15

Alternating Bis and Tris

Ramy doesnt worry about using heavy weights for arms, because he does plenty of heavy pressing for chest and shoulders, and back day involves pulling serious poundage. The goal on arm day is to fill the biceps and triceps with as much blood as possible, which is why Ramy alternates biceps and triceps movements. I think this is better than working them separately, doing all the exercises for one and then the other, he says. You can also get the whole arm pumped and full of blood, not just get a good biceps pump, then lose it as you start working on triceps.

Ron Harris got his start in the bodybuilding industry during the eight years he worked in Los Angeles as Associate Producer for ESPNs American Muscle Magazine show in the 1990s. Since 1992 he has published nearly 5,000 articles in bodybuilding and fitness magazines, making him the most prolific bodybuilding writer ever. Ron has been training since the age of 14 and competing as a bodybuilder since 1989. He lives with his wife and two children in the Boston area. FacebookInstagram

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Top
Vietnams durian export reached $1.63 billion in the first nine months, 14 times higher than the figure of same period last year, according to statistic of the General Department of Customs.

In the reviewed period, fruit and vegetable exports totaled $4.21 billion, a surge of 72.5% equivalent to $1.77 billion year on year.

Durian has surpassed jackfruit, dragon fruit, watermelon, banana and lychee to become the biggest foreign currency earner in Vietnams fruit and vegetable industry, accounting for 38.7% of the industry's total export value.

China is the largest importer of Vietnams fruit and vegetables with a turnover hitting $2.75 billion, skyrocketing 160% compared to the same period last year.

Currently, Vietnamese durian is exported mainly to China. Vietnam has 422 growing areas and 153 packaging facilities eligible to export the fruit to China.

Sixty four other growing areas and 15 packaging facilities are completing procedures to have Chinese authorities to grant codes for the export. In addition, more than 600 growing area codes and 50 packaging facilities will apply for codes for the export of durian to China.
The "Guarding Guam Horizons: Understanding the Missile Defense Systems on Guam" public forum is scheduled for Thursday at the University of Guam College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Lecture Hall.
Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-LA, addresses the House of Representatives after being elected the new speaker at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., Oct. 25, 2023.
Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) makes a statement to reporters and television cameras on the outer steps of the House of Representatives as he stands in front of members of the Republican conference after being elected the new Speaker at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., October 25, 2023.
By An Minh October 26, 2023 | 01:51 am PT

A man in southern Vietnam has been fined for using his motorbike to push a broken-down car along a highway.

Police in Soc Trang Province on Thursday fined Tran Thai Bao, 39, VND500,000 (US$20.32) for pushing another vehicle while driving a motorbike.

Bao said two weeks ago, he was driving his motorbike when an acquaintance's car broke down in the middle of Tran Hung Dao Street in Soc Trang Town.

He decided to help the car owner by pushing the car to the nearest garage that lies 400 m away.

Man fined for pushing broken car on street Dung chan ay oto chay tren uong Tran Thai Bao pushes a broken-down car in Soc Trang Province in this video provided by local people.

Many people believe that the car owner should have called a tow truck for the rescue job instead of letting Bao push the vehicle, according to comments sent to VnExpress.
Thai Airways will resume its services in Vietnam from Oct. 29 following an inauguration ceremony held by the carrier and the Huong Giang Air Service Co., Ltd. (HG Aviation) in Hanoi on Wednesday.

Addressing the ceremony, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara noted that the airline's resumption of flights between Bangkok and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is important to the tourism industry and economy of each country.

Last year, Thailand welcomed more than 500,000 Vietnamese tourists, while over 200,000 Thais visited Vietnam, he said, noting that the numbers are expected to double this year.

The Thai Deputy PM described the resumption as a major stride and a symbol of the close ties between Vietnam and Thailand, especially in the context that the two countries are celebrating the 10th anniversary of their strategic partnership (2013-2023).

Nguyen Trung Khanh, head of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, highlighted the bilateral tourism cooperation, saying Vietnam has learned from Thailand's experience in tourism product development and promotion, and support to businesses, especially after the Covid-19 pandemic.

In the first 10 months of 2023, Vietnam served about 10 million international visitors, of whom 500,000 were Thais, and some 900,000 Vietnamese visited Thailand in the period, he said.

He expressed the hope that Vietnam's tourism sector and Thai Airways will coordinate to launch joint tourism products to help lure holidaymakers from third countries.

Korakot Chatasingha, a representative from Thai Airways, said with the service called Royal Orchid, Thai Airways will operate two flights between Bangkok and Hanoi and two others between Bangkok and HCMC each day.
American man indicted on murder charges over an attack on 2 US tourists near a German castle

American man indicted on murder charges over an attack on 2 US tourists near a German castle View Photo

BERLIN (AP)  An American man has been charged with murder and other offenses for attacking two women from the U.S. near Neuschwanstein castle in Germany in June and pushing them into a ravine, fatally injuring one of them, prosecutors said Thursday.

The indictment against the 31-year-old suspect, whose name hasnt been released in line with German privacy rules, was filed at the state court in Kempten, which will have to decide whether and when to send the case to trial.

He faces charges of murder, rape with fatal consequences, attempted murder and possession of child pornography. Murder charges carry a maximum sentence of life in prison in Germany.

The attack took place on June 14 near the Marienbruecke, a bridge over a gorge close to the castle that offers a famous view of Neuschwanstein, one of Germanys most famous tourist attractions.

Prosecutors say the suspect met the two female tourists, ages 21 and 22, by chance on a hiking path and lured them off the trail. They said in a statement that he apparently first forced the younger woman to the ground and tried to undress her.

When the elder woman tried to help her, a scuffle ensued and the suspect allegedly pushed her down a steep slope. She fell about 50 meters (165 feet) and sustained a head injury, bruises and grazes, but survived.

The suspect then allegedly strangled the younger woman until she was unconscious and raped her, prosecutors said, before pushing her down the slope as well. She died.

Prosecutors said they secured a laptop and cellphones from the suspect containing child sexual abuse material.

Authorities say the women didnt know the man before they met near Neuschwanstein. The suspect was arrested shortly after the attack.

Neuschwanstein, located close to the Austrian border, is the most famous of the castles built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century and is a magnet for tourists from around the world.
Senator Marie Alvarado Gil View Photo

Sacramento, CA  District Four California Senator Marie Alvarado Gil has authored a new myMotherLode.com blog about efforts to address spiking fire insurance costs in the Sierra Foothills.

Alvarado Gil, a Democrat, who resides in Amador County, is a member of the Senate Insurance Committee and mentions that she is on the California Fair Plan.

She gives an update on state legislation and talks that are underway. You can find the full blog by clicking here.

Senator Alvarado Gil also recently talked about fire insurance on a recent 30-minute Mother Lode Views show.

She recently completed her first legislative session. Her District Four covers Tuolumne, Calaveras, Alpine, Amador, El Dorado, Inyo, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Nevada, Placer, and Stanislaus counties.
Federal prosecutors urge judge to reinstate Trump gag order, citing comments about ex-chief of staff View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  Federal prosecutors are urging a judge to reinstate a gag order on Donald Trump, citing recent social media posts about the former presidents chief of staff that they said represented an attempt to influence and intimidate a foreseeable witness in the case.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the federal case charging Trump with plotting to overturn the results of the 2020 election, last week temporarily paused her order barring Trump from making inflammatory comments about prosecutors, court staff and potential witnesses. The ruling came as Trumps lawyers challenge the limited gag order in higher courts.

In a motion filed Wednesday night, special counsel Jack Smiths team encouraged Chutkan to put the restrictions back in place. Prosecutors cited in part statements in social media and at a news conference over the last day by Trump about his former chief of staff, Mark Meadows, who was reported by ABC News on Tuesday to have testified before a grand jury after receiving immunity from prosecution.

The former president mused on social media about the possibility that Meadows, a close ally in the White House who was charged alongside Trump in a separate state prosecution in Georgia related to efforts to undo the election, would give testimony to Smith in exchange for immunity. One part of the post said: Some people would make that deal, but they are weaklings and cowards, and so bad for the future our Failing Nation. I dont think that Mark Meadows is one of them but who really knows?

In their motion, Smiths team cited the post about Meadows as an example of the type of commentary that the original gag order was meant to prohibit and a reason why the restrictions should be reinstated.

Trump, prosecutors wrote, has capitalized on the Courts administrative stay to, among other prejudicial conduct, send an unmistakable and threatening message to a foreseeable witness in this case.

They added: Unless the Court lifts the administrative stay, the defendant will not stop his harmful and prejudicial attacks. In addition, to the extent that the defendants public message  directed to the Chief of Staff, with knowledge that it would reach him  is not already covered by his release conditions, it is an intentional end-run around them.

Smiths team also asked Chutkan to modify the conditions of Trumps pretrial release by making compliance with the gag order a condition, or by clarifying that the existing condition barring communication with witnesses about the facts of the case includes indirect messages to witnesses made publicly on social media or in speeches.

In a separate matter Wednesday, Trump was fined $10,000 after the judge in his civil fraud trial in New York said the former president had violated a gag order.

By ERIC TUCKER

Associated Press
Averted disaster on Horizon Air flight renews scrutiny on mental health of those in the cockpit

Averted disaster on Horizon Air flight renews scrutiny on mental health of those in the cockpit View Photo

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  What authorities describe as an off-duty pilots attempt to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air flight with more than 80 people on board has renewed attention on the mental fitness of those allowed in the cockpit.

Joseph Emerson, 44, had been flying passengers himself just three days before police said he tried to engage an emergency fire suppression system while catching a ride from Washington state to San Francisco on Sunday in the extra seat behind the pilot and first officer on Flight 2059. He was subdued by the flight crew, and the plane landed safely in Portland, Oregon.

Emerson, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder charges, told police after his arrest that hed had a nervous breakdown, had been struggling with depression and the death of a friend, and hadnt slept for 40 hours, according to charging documents.

Emerson also said he had taken psychedelic mushrooms for the first time about 48 hours earlier. Its not clear whether he took them recreationally or in an attempt to self-medicate, but psilocybin is increasingly being recognized in the U.S. for its potential to aid mental health. The pilots and others who encountered Emerson said he did not appear intoxicated.

Heres a look at some of the issues raised by the harrowing cockpit episode:

HOW ARE PILOTS SCREENED FOR MENTAL HEALTH?

Airline pilots are required to renew their medical certificates regularly  annually for those younger than 40 and every six months for those older. That includes filling out forms where they are required to disclose if they have experienced depression, anxiety or drug or alcohol dependence, as well as medications they take.

The foundation of that system is trust, said Shawn Pruchnicki, a former pilot who teaches aviation safety at the Ohio State University.

The idea is that you will confess any diseases or any problems that you have, he said.

Pilots who do so can risk being grounded, at least temporarily, while the Federal Aviation Administration sorts out whether theyre fit to fly. Pilots can also be grounded after relatives or coworkers report concerns.

Emerson had his most recent exam in September, according to Federal Aviation Administration records. Alaska Airlines said at no point were his certifications denied, suspended or revoked.

His wife, Sarah Stretch, said after his first appearance in federal court Thursday that she knew he was struggling with depression but that she was shocked over his arrest.

The administration started allowing some pilots on medication for mild to moderate depression to continue flying on a case-by-case basis in 2010, and some airlines have introduced confidential programs to help struggling employees. The Air Line Pilots Association also offers a round-the-clock, peer-to-peer stress hotline staffed by volunteer pilots.

The FAA encourages pilots to seek help if they have a mental-health condition since most, if treated, do not disqualify a pilot from flying, the agency said in an emailed statement.

Some conditions, including bipolar disorder and psychosis, are disqualifying.

Pilots who are struggling should speak up, because even if theyre temporarily grounded, its better than ruining their career and possibly costing lives with a more disastrous episode down the road, said Dr. Warren Silberman, a former Federal Aviation Administration aeromedical certification chief.

Investigators concluded that is what happened on board a Germanwings plane in 2015 when the copilot deliberately crashed the aircraft in the French Alps, killing 150 people.

WHAT ABOUT DRUG OR ALCOHOL USE?

The U.S. Department of Transportation has a mandatory drug testing program for on-duty pilots or flight attendants, which can include random testing before or after a flight, or testing based on reasonable suspicion. The tests look for opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana and some other drugs  but not psychedelics.

The effects of psychedelic mushrooms typically last about six hours. Usually they are no longer detectable in urine 24 hours after ingestion.

Alaska Airlines, which owns Horizon Air, said it has a zero-tolerance policy and that all gate agents and flight attendants are trained to identify signs of impairment.

The flight crew on the Horizon flight and the police who interviewed Emerson afterward said he did not appear to be impaired.

There is no specific guidance regarding pilot behavior off-duty, but Pruchnicki cautioned that drugs can show up in a random test well after the effects have worn off.

Is that something you want to do on your days off? he said. And how does that fit into your mindset as a professional pilot?

Many pilots get rides in cockpit jump seats every day as a way to shuttle between locations after making flights. Pruchnicki said he didnt think they needed to be subject to random testing because theyre off-duty and not making operational decisions about the flights. Pilots can bar them from the cockpit if they present issues.

I dont believe that necessarily one extremely rare event means that we need to completely overhaul the entire system, Pruchnicki said.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF PSYCHEDELIC MUSHROOMS?

While psilocybin remains illegal in most of the United States, it has been gaining greater acceptance in the country as a potential therapy. The Food and Drug Administration published draft guidance this summer for researchers designing clinical trials for psychedelic drugs to treat depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance-use disorders and other conditions.

Such hallucinogenic substances have been used by the Indigenous peoples of the Americas to induce altered states of consciousness and healing since pre-Columbian times. Users have described varied experiences, from vivid geometric shapes, patterns and colors to a sense of oneness with the universe.

Oregon became the first state to legalize psilocybin in 2020 after voters approved a measure that allowed for the manufacture and controlled, therapeutic use of psilocybin for people 21 years of age or older.

Its unclear what prompted the episode on Horizon Air  police said Emerson described having been in a dream-like state.

Brian Pilecki, a clinical psychologist in Portland who is involved in research on psychedelic therapeutics, said that for people diagnosed with psychosis or bipolar disorder, taking a psychedelic like psilocybin can potentially trigger a psychotic episode.

WHATS NEXT IN THE CASE?

Emerson made his initial appearance in federal court Thursday on one count of interfering with a flight crew, which can carry up to 20 years in prison. He was ordered to remain in custody, and his arraignment was set for Nov. 22.

He pleaded not guilty in state court Tuesday to 83 charges of attempted murder and one of endangering an aircraft.

By CLAIRE RUSH and GENE JOHNSON

Associated Press
After Biden meeting, new Speaker Johnson says GOP wont abandon Ukraine but will aid Israel first

After Biden meeting, new Speaker Johnson says GOP wont abandon Ukraine but will aid Israel first View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden met with new House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House on Thursday to discuss his request for nearly $106 billion for Israel, Ukraine and other national security needs.

Johnson, a staunch conservative allied with Donald Trump, has shown little interest in providing additional money from Congress to support Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Later, the new Republican speaker insisted Congress is not going to abandon Ukraine.

Instead, Johnson said House Republicans would first bring a separate bill to provide $14.5 billion in aid to Israel, but they need more information about the Biden administrations Ukraine strategy.

We cant allow Vladimir Putin to prevail in Ukraine because I dont believe it would stop there, Johnson said on Fox News Hannity, referring to the Russian president. But he said, We must stand with our important ally in the Middle East and thats Israel.

The new Republican leader who swept into office nearly a month after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as speaker had a busy first full day in office, having inherited many of the same political problems that tormented past GOP leaders and challenged their tenure as speaker.

In the morning, Johnson said prayer is appropriate as a response to the mass shootings in Maine.

Johnson, an evangelical Christian from Louisiana, declined to take questions, including about the possibility of any gun violence legislation from Congress.

Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that the evil can end and the senseless violence can stop, he said.

The House convened with a bustle of activity, making up for lost time during the weeks of chaos since McCarthys ouster as speaker. But the initial goodwill toward Johnson blurs the political fault lines challenging his ability to lead the GOP majority in the face of daunting issues ahead.

By Nov. 17, the Congress must fund the government again or risk a federal shutdown. Biden wants nearly $106 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Israel and Ukraine. And Republicans are eager to resume their impeachment inquiry into Biden over his son Hunters business dealings.

Enough of the chaos, enough of the dysfunction, said Jeffries, D-N.Y., adding it was time for Congress to get back to business.

Jeffries said Democrats were heartbroken over the latest shootings and stand with the people of Maine in every way possible, including discussing how Congress can address gun violence.

Johnson said he and Biden met together for more than 15 minutes before the other party arrived.

It was a productive meeting, Johnson told reporters back at the Capitol. I enjoyed my visit with the president.

Biden met with Johnson and Jeffries before the House leaders joined a classified briefing with other congressional lawmakers on the assistance package, according to a White House official.

The briefing in the Situation Room for Johnson and other House leaders on the emergency funding request was the first time the new speaker, who opposes the aid to Ukraine, was getting a close airing from White House officials about Bidens case for the money. The White House has conducted similar briefings in recent weeks.

Biden had called Johnson to congratulate him after his election Wednesday and said it was time for all of us to act responsibly to fund the government and provide that foreign aid. We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

Johnson, 51, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn as speaker and is now second in line to the presidency, after the vice president.

While not the Republicans top choice, Johnson had few foes and an important backer in Donald Trump.

At the Capitol on Thursday, Johnson sat down with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who told reporters afterward that he had a very good meeting with the new speaker.

Johnson met later with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who said on social media they had a great meeting. He has also heard from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who told the new speaker in a Wednesday call that a bipartisan agreement with Democrats is the only way to avoid a shutdown.

In winning the gavel, Johnson, who has been in the House for less than a decade, drew together fellow Republicans through his faith, conservative roots and Trumps nod after more seasoned leaders had failed.

Im a Bible-believing Christian, Johnson told Foxs Sean Hannity.

The speaker said when hes asked his views on the issues, he advises: Well, go pick up a Bible off your shelf and read it, thats my worldview. Thats what I believe.

Democrats said Johnson, a lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, was an extreme conservative, a strict opponent of abortion access and an architect of Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

After Johnsons election, lawmakers approved a resolution Wednesday saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. They next turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Rather than take a scheduled work period at home, Republicans rearranged the House calendar to return to Washington next week and keep pushing through the various government funding bills before the Nov. 17 deadline.

In a letter to colleagues, Johnson outlined priorities that include providing a short-term funding bill, into next year, to prevent a November shutdown  almost the same move that led to McCarthys ouster.

Speaker Johnson has been very clear that weve got to secure Americas border, we want to support Israel, said Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who conferred with Johnson ahead of the White House meeting. But all of the other items that the President is talking about run secondary.

Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Johnson is thoughtful and smart, and understands that aid for Ukraine is a national security issue, despite opposition from other Republicans in their majority.

And what I saw in the Situation Room was I thought he was very open to the idea, said McCaul.

To avoid a shutdown, Johnson will need to balance far-right demands with the realities of keeping the government functioning. Most Republicans voted against the budget deal McCarthy, R-Calif., struck with Biden earlier this year, demanding steeper spending cuts.

Similar Republican infighting has chased three other GOP speakers to early departures. The difference now is that Republican rules allow any single lawmaker to force a vote to remove the speaker from office.

___

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin in New York, Darlene Superville and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.

By LISA MASCARO, SEUNG MIN KIM and FARNOUSH AMIRI

Associated Press
Harris will attend an AI summit at a UK estate that was a base for World War II codebreakers

Harris will attend an AI summit at a UK estate that was a base for World War II codebreakers View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  Vice President Kamala Harris will attend a summit on artificial intelligence in the United Kingdom next week, shortly after President Joe Biden issues a highly anticipated executive order on an emerging technology that has generated excitement and fear.

Shes scheduled to leave on Tuesday and return on Nov. 2, and shell be accompanied by her husband, Douglas Emhoff, according to her office.

Harris will deliver a speech outlining the Democratic administrations approach to artificial intelligence on Nov. 1 before attending a summit on the topic the next day. Emhoff is expected to participate in events with civil society groups and young leaders focused on science learning, gender equity and countering hate.

Kirsten Allen, a spokeswoman for Harris, said the goal is a future where every person is safe from the harms of AI and where every person can share equally in its benefits.

Governments around the globe are racing to set guidelines for artificial intelligence. Besides Bidens executive order, the European Union is putting the final touches on a comprehensive set of regulations that targets the riskiest applications for the technology.

U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak hopes to carve out a prominent role for Britain on the issue, and next weeks summit will be held at Bletchley Park, a historic estate north of London that once served as a base for World War II codebreakers. Teams at whats dubbed the spiritual home of modern computing were able to crack the Nazis Enigma cipher, helping to end the war.

The summit will focus on the risks from whats known as frontier artificial intelligence, which is cutting edge systems that can carry out a wide range of tasks and pose unknown risks to public safety. These systems are underpinned by large language models, which are trained on vast pools of text and data.

U.S. and European officials have spoken of working with like-minded countries to draw up guardrails for artificial intelligence. China has also been invited to the summit. In a speech on Thursday, Sunak defended the invitation against criticism that China should have been excluded, though he couldnt say with 100% certainty that Beijing will attend.

Some lawmakers in Sunaks Conservative party had called for Chinas invitation to be rescinded after the revelation that a parliamentary researcher was arrested on suspicion of spying for Beijing.

There can be no serious strategy for AI without at least trying to engage all of the worlds leading AI powers, he said. That might not have been the easy thing to do, but it was the right thing to do. ___

Chan reported from London.

By CHRIS MEGERIAN and KELVIN CHAN

Associated Press
Live Updates | Lewiston schools to close as police search for mass shooting suspect View Photo

At least 18 people were killed in shootings at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night, sparking a massive search for the suspect. Late Thursday, heavily armed law enforcement backed by a police helicopter had surrounded a home and told anyone who might be inside to surrender, but authorities eventually left without indicating anyone had been taken into custody.

10:40

We dont know for sure. Follow for live updates.

WHAT TO KNOW

 Authorities are searching towns, forests and waterways for the suspect.

 Heres what we know about the suspect and where the shooting happened.

 Social media posts spread an incorrect photo of the Maine suspect.

 Maine passed a law to try to prevent mass shootings, but some say more is needed.

 The shooting is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year.

LEWISTON SCHOOLS WILL BE CLOSED FRIDAY, SUPERINTENDENT SAYS

Lewiston Public Schools will be closed again on Friday, according to a post by Superintendent Jake Langlais on the districts website.

We remain in a shelter in place situation, the post said. We will not open buildings or run bus transportation.

The superintendent said students and staff have been directly impacted by the shooting and the events since 7 p.m. Wednesday are unimaginable.

School officials in Maines largest city of Portland will decide by 5 a.m. Friday whether to open based on information received from police, according to a post on the districts website.

Bates College in Lewiston also canceled classes Friday and postponed the inauguration of the schools first Black president, Garry Jenkins, the schools website said.

OFFICERS HAVE LEFT HOME THEY SURROUNDED, SAYING THEY WERE EXECUTING A SEARCH WARRANT

Most of the law enforcement officers and a helicopter that surrounded a home connected to a relative of the suspect in the Maine shootings have left after executing a search warrant and calling for anyone inside to surrender.

Officers had yelled through a megaphone at the home near Bowdoin, Maine, for suspect Robert Card or anyone inside to Come out with your hands up.

Maine State Police said afterward that the announcements were standard.

It is unknown whether Robert Card is in any of the homes law enforcement will search, the statement posted on Facebook said.

Richard Goddard, who lives on the road where the searches were taking place in Bowdoin, said he knows the Card family and that Robert knows the terrain well.

This is is his stomping ground. He grew up here. He knows every ledge to hide behind, every thicket, he said.

OFFICERS AT HOME WHERE SUSPECTS RELATIVES LIVE CALL FOR SURRENDER

Heavily armed officers surrounding a home where relatives of the suspect in the Maine shootings live near Bowdoin, Maine, are calling for a person or people inside to surrender.

Law enforcement officers asked TV crews to turn off their lights nearby before officers could be heard yelling into a megaphone shortly after 7 p.m.

You need to come outside now with nothing in your hands. Your hands in the air, officers shouted outside the home owned by suspect Robert Cards relatives.

Officers were speaking through the megaphone, waiting, then speaking again. At one point, officers said they could guarantee safety if the person or people walked outside the house.

FBI, OTHER OFFICERS GATHER AT HOME WHERE SUSPECTS RELATIVES LIVE

Several FBI agents and other heavily armed officers gathered off a road where several relatives of shootings suspect Robert Card live near Bowdoin, Maine.

A military-style vehicle and a white van arrived and moments later someone repeatedly yelled, FBI! Open the door!

Loud booms could be heard a few seconds apart as helicopters circled overhead. Nearby, several armed police officers stood on alert in the back of a pickup truck.

HOSPITAL TREATS PATIENTS INJURED IN SHOOTINGS

Eight people injured in the Maine shootings remained hospitalized at Central Maine Medial Center on Thursday afternoon, officials said.

Hospital officials said five of the patients are in stable condition and three are critical. The hospital has not released the ages of the patients. All of the patients had been identified by late afternoon, said Dr. John Alexander, the chief medical officer.

Alexander said the hospital is not used to dealing with this level of emergency care, but the staff was trained for it.

Its unprecedented in terms of the severity of the injuries and the tragedy to the community, he said.

COAST GUARD SEARCHES BY BOAT AS SHOOTING SUSPECT REMAINS AT LARGE

Authorities have been searching both on land and water for the suspect in Wednesdays shootings in Maine that killed 18 people.

The Coast Guard sent out a patrol boat Thursday morning along the Kennebec River. But after hours of searching, authorities found nothing out of the ordinary, said Chief Petty Officer Ryan Smith, who is in charge of the Coast Guards Boothbay Harbor Station.

The suspects car had been discovered by a boat launch near the Androscoggin River, which connects to the Kennebec, and his 15-foot (4.5-meter) boat remains unaccounted for, Smith said.

But he added that officials didnt have any specific intelligence that the suspect, Robert Card, might have escaped aboard his boat. Were just doing our due diligence, he said.

LEWISTON WOMAN SHELTERS AT HOME WHILE MOURNING AND PRAYING

Standing outsider her Lewiston home Thursday while police searched for the suspect in the Maine shootings, April Stevens cried as she described being frustrated and worried.

Stevens, who lives close to the scene of the shootings, said she knew someone who was killed at the bar and another person who was injured and needed surgery.

Were praying for everyone. Were just hoping everyone gets through this, that the people who are injured recover safely, she said. Our hearts go out to all of those who didnt make it.

Stevens said she was working from home Thursday while authorities continued their search for the suspect. She said she locked her doors and turned on her homes outside lights Wednesday night in case the shooter was nearby.

Were just here to support our friends if they need us. If they need a hug  they need anything  were here, she said.

CANADA WARNS BORDER AGENTS TO BE ON LOOKOUT FOR MAINE SUSPECT

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA  The Canada Border Services Agency has issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for the man suspected of fatally shooting at least 18 people in southern Maine.

The shootings were reported Wednesday night in Lewiston, about 260 kilometers (161 miles) southwest of the New Brunswick border. As a massive search continued Thursday for suspect Robert Card, residents of southern Maine were told to lock their doors and remain inside.

The CBSA says it is working with Canadian and U.S. law enforcement partners, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to protect Canadas borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry.

The Canadian border agency said that all entry points along the Canada-U.S. border remain open.

MAINE LAWMAKERS VOW TO ENSURE SIMILAR TRAGEDY WONT HAPPEN AGAIN

State lawmakers in Maine, which has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates, called the mass shootings that killed at least 18 people a tragedy and urged unity in the face of crisis.

State Rep. Mana Abdi of Lewiston, the first Somali American elected to the Maine Legislature, and fellow Democratic Reps. Margaret Craven and Michel Lajoie said in a joint statement that they were committed to ensuring that a tragedy like this will never happen to another community ever again.

We are deeply thankful to all of the first responders, law enforcement and hospital staff who responded swiftly, and will continue to keep all of our neighbors, families and friends who have been affected in our hearts, they said.

Republican state Rep. Laurel Libby, who represents nearby Auburn, said the community was in shock and the loss the state is facing is just unfathomable. Libby also said this was not the time to talk about the states gun culture.

Were already seeing our community really rallying together in support. I know that same spirit will carry us on through, but its really not a time for guessing at motives at this point and pointing fingers, Libby said.

BIDEN URGES RESIDENTS IN SEARCH AREA TO HEED LAW ENFORCEMENT WARNINGS

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Thursday urged residents of the area where police are searching for the suspect in the Maine mass shootings to heed the warning of local law enforcement.

For countless Americans who have survived gun violence and been traumatized by it, a shooting such as this reopens deep and painful wounds, he said in a statement, adding that he and first lady Jill Biden were praying for the families of the victims. Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it.

Biden once again called for the passage of a ban of so-called assault weapons. The president also ordered flags at half-staff to honor the victims of the shooting.

OFFICIAL: POLICE TOOK SUSPECT FOR EVALUATION AFTER ERRATIC BEHAVIOR IN JULY

WASHINGTON  A U.S. Army reservist suspected of killing at least 18 people in Maine had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Robert Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

 Associated Press writer Lolita Baldor in Washington contributed to this report.

ARREST WARRANT ISSUED FOR SUSPECT IN MAINE SHOOTING

An arrest warrant for eight counts of murder has been issued for the suspect in the shootings at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant, according to state police.

As more victims are identified, the counts against suspect Robert Card will probably grow to 18, Maine State Police Col. William Ross said.

Police responded to a very fast moving, very dangerous scene, Ross said, noting that seven people were found dead at the bowling alley and eight at the bar, including one victim who was outside. All had gunshot wounds. Three people who were taken to hospitals also died, Ross said.

MAINE GOV. MILLS SAYS SHOOTING DEATH TOLL RISES TO 18

The death toll in the shooting at a Maine bowling alley and a restaurant has risen to 18 people killed, according to Gov. Janet Mills. Another 13 were injured in the shootings Wednesday night, she said.

Mills said law enforcement is still searching for shooting suspect Robert Card, who is considered armed and dangerous.

The governor warned that people should not approach Card under any circumstances. She asked people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

The full weight of her administration is behind the law enforcement effort to capture Card and hold whoever is responsible accountable and seek justice for the victims and their families, Mills said.

We cannot and we will not rest in this endeavor, Mills said.

MAINE SHOOTING ANGERS PARENT OF COLLEGE STUDENT

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College in Lewiston, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed.

Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son spoke and texted late into the night and he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured, the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.

By The Associated Press
Vietnamese tourists in Sa Pa in northern Vietnam, May 2023. Photo by Duong Quoc Hieu

Hotels and restaurants treat foreign tourists better than Vietnamese guests according to insiders who say the discrimination could hinder domestic tourism's recovery.

Hoa Hong, living in the southern province of Ba Ria - Vung Tau, said she was badly treated at check in at a five-star hotel during her trip to Ho Chi Minh City in March.

She had been gifted a free two-night stay at this hotel. Hong sent the voucher code in advance for the staff to check and finalize her online booking. Upon arrival, the check-in counter had three staff to assist guests.

She walked into the empty counter, gave the voucher and a booking confirmation message to the receptionist. Instead of checking the voucher, the staff asked Hong to wait because they had to conduct the check-in procedures for a group of foreign tourists, even though they arrived after Hong.

"At that time, I didn't react because I thought I would have to wait for confirmation so I would let the group of foreign tourists check in first," Hong said.

"Waiting for 5-10 minutes is not a big problem, but I wondered about Vietnamese people always badly treated in places that mainly serve foreign tourists," she added.

Favoritism towards foreign tourists is common in the Vietnamese tourism industry.

In 2019, a coffee shop in Hoi An was criticized for not serving Vietnamese customers and only receiving foreigners.

Local authorities then worked with the shop owner to change its service attitude, so as not to dent the image of Hoi An tourism.

Tourism experts said that revenues from domestic tourists have increased over the years, from VND158 trillion (US$6.5 billion) in 2015 to VND334 trillion in 2019, accounting for 43% of total tourism revenues.

Phan Huynh Phuong Hoang, deputy general director of leading tour operator Vietravel, said that some restaurants in Vietnam put up signs "serving foreign tourists only" and show indifference to domestic guests.

Though some of these restaurants made public apologies after receiving criticism from the public, in reality they still favor foreign tourists, she added.

"Discrimination is the 'most effective' way to evict tourists, even worse than the problem of overcharging," Hoang said.

Nguyen Dong Hoa, deputy general director of Saigontourist Group, said poor service quality is one of the main reasons why Vietnamese tourists have been traveling abroad more this year.

In the second quarter, Vietnamese tourists' demand for overseas travel had the highest growth rate in Southeast Asia, equal to 175% compared to the same period before Covid pandemic, according to a Google survey.

In the first nine months of this year, the number of Vietnamese tourists traveling abroad reached over 3.8 million, up 2.5 times year-on-year.

Hoang said that the problem of treating foreign tourists better than Vietnamese guests was due to the fact that foreigners "are often generous in paying tips" while some Vietnamese people behave uncivilized such as not lining up and wasting food at buffet parties.

Vietnamese preferring to travel abroad is a minus for the domestic industry, and insiders are looking for ways to keep locals spending travel dollars in Vietnam.

Nguyen Anh Thu, research director of travel company Outbox Consulting, said that the recovery of the international tourist market has been "much slower" than the domestic segment.

In 2019, Vietnam welcomed 85 million domestic visitors while the figure amounted to 101 million last year.

Thu said the tourism industry should pay more attention to domestic tourists with large potential to reduce dependence on international visitors amid gloomy global economic prospects.
Grandpa Google? Tech giant begins antitrust defense by poking fun at its status among youth View Photo

WASHINGTON (AP)  A top Google executive testified Thursday that the companys success is precarious and said its leadership fears their product could slide into irrelevance with younger internet users.

Prabhakar Raghavan, Googles senior vice president for knowledge and information products, testified for the tech giant as it defends itself in the biggest antitrust trial in the last 25 years. The government has accused the company of illegally thwarting competitors from making inroads against its ubiquitous search engine.

Raghavan downplayed Googles dominance and described it as a company beset by competitors on all sides. He said the company has been tagged with the disparaging moniker Grandpa Google among younger demographics who dont see it as an interesting product.

Grandpa Google knows the answers and will help you with homework, Raghavan said. But when it comes to doing interesting things, they like to start elsewhere.

Googles lawyers showed Raghavan a 1998 article from Fortune magazine which said Yahoo! has won the search-engine wars and is poised for much bigger things.

Raghavan, who once worked at Yahoo!, said Google spends massive amounts on research and development to try to stay ahead of the curve as technology evolves.

I feel a keen sense not to become the next roadkill, he said.

He cited a long list of innovations Google has made to its search engine over the last 20-plus years, from changing the way advertisers bid for space on a search results page to improving the match between what a user types in his query to the results he is actually seeking.

The Justice Department has presented evidence that Google secured its dominance in search by paying billions of dollars annually to Apple and other companies to lock in Google as the default search engine on iPhones and other popular products.

A Microsoft executive also testified that Googles pre-eminent position becomes self-fulfilling, as it uses the data it aggregates from the billions of searches it conducts to improve the efficiency of future searches.

Google says its search engine is dominant because it has a better product than its competitors. The company said it invested in mobile devices and other emerging technologies more quickly than competitors like Microsoft, and that those investments are now paying off.

And it cited evidence that consumers switch their search engine to Google the majority of the time in cases where another search engine is offered as the default choice.

Raghavan, in his testimony, also said Googles competition is not just traditional search engines like Microsofts Bing, but various verticals like Expedia or Yelp that people use to to facilitate travel or dining.

We feel ourselves competing with them every day, he said.

The antitrust case, the biggest since the Justice Department went after Microsoft and its dominance of internet browsers 25 years ago, was filed in 2020 during the Trump administration. The trial began last month, and Google is expected to present its case over the next month.

U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta is not expected to rule until early next year. If he decides Google broke the law, another trial will determine how to rein in its market power. One option would be to prohibit Google from paying companies to make Google a default search engine.

Google is also facing a similar antitrust lawsuit filed by the Justice Department in Alexandria, Virginia, over its advertising technology. That case has not yet gone to trial.

By MATTHEW BARAKAT

AP Business Writer
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP)  The son of a federal judge who was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of his wife more than a decade ago pleaded guilty to second-degree murder Thursday in a deal reached with Puerto Rican prosecutors during a retrial.

Pablo Casellas had won a new trial after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2020 that criminal cases require unanimous verdicts. At the time, suspects in Puerto Rico could be convicted by a minimum of nine jurors, and Casellas had been found guilty in an 11-1 verdict.

Casellas was convicted in 2014 on first-degree murder and other charges and was sentenced to 109 years in prison for the fatal shooting of his wife in one of Puerto Ricos most high-profile cases. Carmen Paredes, 46, was shot several times, including in the forehead and chest, in July 2012 at the couples upscale home where they lived with their two children.

Casellas father is U.S. District Court Judge Salvador Casellas, a former Puerto Rico treasury secretary appointed to the federal bench in 1994.
China says it wants to bolster climate cooperation with US as California Gov. Newsom visits Beijing

China says it wants to bolster climate cooperation with US as California Gov. Newsom visits Beijing View Photo

BANGKOK (AP)  Chinas Environment Minister Huang Runqiu said Thursday his country wants to strengthen cooperation with the United States to combat climate change, as he met in Beijing with California Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Newsom is on a weeklong tour of China where he is pushing for climate cooperation. His trip as governor, once considered routine, is drawing attention as it comes after years of heightening tensions between the U.S. and China.

The climate is one of the few issues where the U.S. and China have agreed to work together. Relations between the two countries have deteriorated in recent years over trade practices, tariff barriers, human rights abuses and the fate of Taiwan, a self-ruled island that China claims as its own territory.

Huang said Thursday that his ministry would continue to carry out agreements under a memorandum of understanding signed last year between China and California in carbon market investment, climate adaptation, environment law implementation and human-to-human exchange to strengthen cooperation and have a positive effect on China-US. environmental cooperation.

California has been a leader in regulating air pollution and other climate-related issues, Newsom said in opening remarks Thursday.

But we recognize the limits of subnational leadership. We need more partners. And Im here in that light and in that spirit of partnership and also humility, recognizing we dont have all the answers, the California governor said.

Both sides spoke about a rise in extreme weather in their countries.

California and China issued a declaration on Wednesday pledging to work together to combat climate change, including in offshore wind, advanced energy storage technologies and zero-emission vehicles, according to the text.

Newsom was greeted in Beijing with a warmth and friendliness rarely seen between U.S. and Chinese officials. On Wednesday, he met with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, as well as other senior leaders including top diplomat Wang Yi and Vice President Han Zheng.

Newsom has highlighted climate as an area where both sides needed to cooperate, as it concerns the survival and future of the human population.

Governors of California, which has an economy larger than most countries, have a long history of climate collaboration with China. Democrat Jerry Brown and Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger also traveled there to swap knowledge on reducing air pollution and emissions. Brown also met Xi Jinping in 2017.

___

Associated Press video producer Olivia Zhang contributed to this report from Beijing.

By HUIZHONG WU

Associated Press
FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried testifies outside jurys presence as judge decides what he can say

FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried testifies outside jurys presence as judge decides what he can say View Photo

NEW YORK (AP)  Sam Bankman-Fried got a test run taking the stand at his New York criminal trial Thursday after a judge sent jurors home but let him demonstrate portions of his testimony before deciding which parts of it hell allow.

Bankman-Fried, 31, is expected to face the jury Friday when he testifies about his version of how his multibillion-dollar cryptocurrency empire grew into a giant in the industry and then collapsed, causing billions of dollars in losses that prosecutors blame on his extravagant spending on investments, donations and a lavish lifestyle.

During nearly three hours of testimony Thursday after jurors were sent home, Bankman-Fried tried to show that the presence of lawyers when he made decisions about how he spent customer money led him to think he was acting legally.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon drilled him with the sort of questions hell likely face during cross-examination, frequently eliciting choppy answers in which Bankman-Fried seemed unsure of the conversations hed had with lawyers.

Shortly before she finished, Sassoon pressed Bankman-Fried on why he hired a general counsel who had worked at a company that had a criminal insider trading scandal.

I did want to find a general counsel who would be comfortable with the business being allowed to take reasonable risks, Bankman-Fried said, adding that he did not want his top lawyer restraining the company from risk-taking.

Later, Sassoon asked if he was aware that his general counsel was using illegal narcotics with Bankman-Fried employees.

Objection! defense attorney Mark Cohen called out.

Sustained, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan answered. The judge said hell rule on Friday.

The possibility of Bankman-Fried testifying drew large crowds to the lower Manhattan courthouse Thursday. Those in court included Bankman-Frieds parents, as well as Michael Lewis, the author who recently published a book on Bankman-Fried. Three overflow rooms contained dozens of crypto enthusiasts and spectators.

It seemed on Thursday that Bankman-Fried was about to start his testimony before the jury after lunch when the judge changed the plans, saying hed prefer to make rulings on what Bankman-Fried can testify about before he starts. He had previously said hed conduct a hearing and make those rulings on Friday.

Were in the home stretch, Kaplan told jurors as he sent them home for the day, saying he knew it was a little surprise for them to have the rest of the afternoon off. He told them they were likely to get the case in the first few days of next week.

Since early October, prosecutors have presented their case through witnesses and dozens of exhibits including financial records.

After prosecutors rested Thursday, defense lawyers immediately asked Kaplan to acquit Bankman-Fried on the grounds that prosecutors had failed to present sufficient evidence. The judge rejected the request.

The California entrepreneur has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges accusing him of diverting billions of dollars from his clients and investors to make risky investments, buy luxury housing, engage in a star-studded publicity campaign and make large political and charitable donations.

While on the witness stand Thursday, Bankman-Fried was repeatedly uncomfortable. He winced, stared downward and apologized repeatedly. He often would rephrase the prosecutors question, saying, I wouldnt phrase it that way.

He often appeared unaware of how his companies were functioning, asked for documents that either did not exist or were not available to him.

In one particularly tough exchange, Sassoon asked Bankman-Fried what was written in a document that allowed him to borrow or spend customer funds. He stared at the document in silence for minutes and vaguely explained how he used funds.

When the prosecutor tried to ask the question again, Cohen objected that he had already answered the question.

He did not answer the question, your honor, Sassoon said.

Agreed, said the judge.

Bankman-Fried had previously remained quiet through a three-week trial as several members of his executive inner circle have testified against him in cooperation deals they made with the government before pleading guilty to criminal charges.

In their testimony, the executives insisted that Bankman-Fried directed them to spend billions of dollars taken from the accounts of FTX customers and funneled through Alameda Research, a hedge fund he started in 2017, two years before he created the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.

Bankman-Fried was arrested in the Bahamas and extradited to the United States last December, a month after his businesses collapsed.

Initially, he was freed on a $250 million personal recognizance bond and required to remain at the Palo Alto, California, home of his parents, longtime Stanford University law professors.

Kaplan revoked the bail in August after concluding that Bankman-Fried had tried to influence potential trial witnesses and ordered him jailed.

Those testifying against Bankman-Fried have included Caroline Ellison, his former girlfriend who was chief executive of Alameda before it was publicly revealed that billions of dollars were missing last November.

She told jurors that the collapse of the businesses brought her relief that I didnt have to lie anymore and she blamed Bankman-Fried for corrupting her moral compass by creating justifications for doing things that she knew to be wrong and illegal.

She also admitted doctoring financial balance sheets to try to hide that Alameda was borrowing about $10 billion from FTX customers by June 2022, a discrepancy that was revealed when customers rushed to withdraw deposits last November as word got out that their money was not safe.

By LARRY NEUMEISTER and KEN SWEET

Associated Press
UN Security Council fails again to address Israel-Hamas war, rejecting US and Russian resolutions View Photo

UNITED NATIONS (AP)  The U.N. Security Council failed again Wednesday to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions.

The council is the U.N.s most powerful body, charged with maintaining international peace and security, but its divisions have left it impotent and scrambling to try to find a resolution with acceptable language.

The resolution drafted by the United States, Israels closest ally, would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza.

In Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council, 10 countries voted in favor, Russia, China and the United Arab Emirates voted against, and Brazil and Mozambique abstained. The resolution was not adopted because permanent council members Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution, which was then put to a vote, would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire and unequivocally condemned Hamas Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza.

In that vote, four countries voted in favor  Russia, China, United Arab Emirates and Gabon. The United States and United Kingdom voted against, and nine countries abstained. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

The failure of the two resolutions followed the councils rejections last week of a Russian resolution that didnt mention Hamas and also failed to get nine yes votes and a widely supported Brazilian resolution vetoed by the United States that would have condemned the Hamas attacks and all violence against civilians and called for humanitarian pauses.

After the votes, Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, speaking on behalf of the 10 elected members of the council serving two-year terms, announced they will be working on a new proposal in the coming days.

As elected members of this council, we also represent the rest of the international community and we have a duty and an obligation to act, she told the council. There is no time to waste.

Before the vote, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the council that last week she had said diplomacy needed to play out before it approved a resolution. She pointed to action by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, President Joe Biden, and regional leaders that led to the opening of the Rafah crossing from Egypt to Gaza to the delivery of some desperately needed humanitarian aid, though much, much more help is needed as well as the release of four of the more than 200 hostages taken from Israel.

Thomas-Greenfield called this moment a test for the international community and for the council. She accused Russia of introducing a resolution at the last minute in bad faith with no consultations, and urged members to vote for the strong and balanced U.S. text.

Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia countered that an immediate humanitarian cease-fire is needed to de-escalate the conflict and reduce the bloodshed and shocking Palestinian casualties. He called the U.S. draft politicized and claimed the United States doesnt want the Security Council to have any influence on a possible Israeli ground offensive that would risk provoking an even larger-scale conflict in the region and possibly even beyond.

After the vote, Chinas U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun said the U.S. draft contained many elements that went beyond humanitarian needs and were deeply divisive. He called it evasive on the most urgent issue of ending the fighting and said it failed to reflect the worlds strong calls for a cease-fire.

United Arab Emirates Ambassador Lana Nusseibeh, the Arab representative on the council who voted against the U.S. resolution and for the Russian draft, said the U.N. and humanitarian organizations have made clear that what is essential is a humanitarian cease-fire, the release of all hostages, and sustained humanitarian access to Gaza.

At a council meeting on the war Tuesday that heard nearly 90 speakers, there were dozens of statements imploring this council to assign the same value to Palestinian life as it does to Israeli life, Nusseibeh said. We cannot allow any equivocation on this point.

Israels U.N. Ambassador Gilad Erdan thanked the U.S. and other nations that supported its resolution for condemning savage genocidal terrorists while standing up for the values of freedom and security.

Those who voted against the resolution showed the world the Security Council is incapable of condemning terrorists and cannot confirm the right to self -defense of the victim of these heinous crimes.

Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian U.N. ambassador, told the Associated Press after the vote its disgusting the Security Council is not shouldering its responsibility to stop the war.

You do not start by killing the people and then say that I want to deal with the situation, he said. We need to save lives.  That is the most urgent priority.

With the Security Council still paralyzed, the Palestinians are turning to the 193-member General Assembly where there are no vetoes  just as Ukraine did after Russias February 2022 invasion. The assemblys emergency special session opens Thursday, with 106 speakers on the list, and Arab nations have circulated a draft resolution which Mansour said he expects to be put to a vote on Friday afternoon.

The draft resolution calls for an immediate cease-fire, demands that Israel rescind its order for Gazans to move from the north to the south, calls for maximum restraint, and demands that essential goods including food, water and medicine are provided in the Gaza Strip.

___

Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war

By EDITH M. LEDERER

Associated Press
South Korea, US and Japan condemn North Koreas alleged supply of munitions to Russia View Photo

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  South Korea, the U.S. and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent U.S. claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the U.S. and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties. Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The U.S., South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear program in exchange for its munitions supply.

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine. After returning to Moscow, Lavrov dismissed the U.S. accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone.

I dont comment on rumors, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said that North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea), the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the U.S. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites. Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Koreas Unification Ministry said Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the Norths main launch facility.

In response to North Koreas growing nuclear capability, the U.S. and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training. This years maritime drill, which involves live-firing exercises, drew U.S. military helicopters and patrol aircraft as well, according to a navy statement.

North Korea didnt immediately comment on the drill. But it has previously slammed U.S-South Korean exercises as invasion rehearsals and responded with missile tests.

By HYUNG-JIN KIM

Associated Press
Live updates | Airstrikes ravage swaths of Gaza after Israeli troops and tanks briefly enter View Photo

More airstrikes have ravaged swaths of the Gaza Strip, and residents are running out of food, water and other supplies. The bombardment continued as the Israeli military said its troops and tanks briefly entered northern Gaza to prepare for a full-scale incursion, the Israeli raid since the war began more than two weeks ago.

Meanwhile the U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to the Pentagon.

A senior Hamas official told The Associated Press that the Palestinian militant group needs greater intervention from its allies, including Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, in its war with Israel.

The war, now in its 20th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said Thursday that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far  more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids following Hamas surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel.

The Associated Press couldnt independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas attack. Israels military has raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released so far.

Currently:

1. U.S. strikes Iran-linked sites in Syria in retaliation for attacks on U.S. troops 2. U.S. President Joe Biden meets with new House Speaker Mike Johnson to discuss aid for Israel and Ukraine. 3. Parts of Gaza look like a wasteland from space. Look for the misshapen buildings and swaths of gray 4. Palestinians plead stop the bombs at U.N. meeting, but Israel insists Hamas must be obliterated. 5. Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war.

Heres whats happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

US STRIKES IRAN-LINKED SITES IN SYRIA IN RETALIATION FOR ATTACKS ON US TROOPS

The U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said.

The strikes come in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

The U.S. wants to hit Iranian-backed groups suspected of targeting the U.S. to deter future aggression, possibly fueled by Israels war against Hamas, while also working to avoid inflaming the region and provoking a wider conflict.

EGYPTIAN STATE MEDIA SAYS 5 HURT IN EXPLOSION AT RESORT TOWN ON BORDER WITH ISRAEL

An explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba on the border with Israel, wounding five people, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday.

The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

AIRSTRIKES IN GAZA: AMBULANCES, CHAOS AND TWISTED METAL

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip  A cloud of grey dust fills a street as men and ambulances rush to the site of an Israeli airstrike. An AP videojournalist sprints beside them, the chaos growing more intense as they draw closer to the destroyed residence.

Dozens of people pick their way across the remains of the building, which has been reduced to a jumble of concrete and metal. They scramble to pull the living and the dead from the wreckage.

A survivor, his face chalk-white with dust and eyes wide open, is carried in a blanket to a waiting ambulance. A woman who can still walk is led away from the blast area, with a man throwing a blanket over her shoulders. Wheres the ambulance? someone yells.

Israeli airstrikes on Thursday hit a densely populated refugee camp in Gazas southern city of Khan Younis, leveling more than eight homes belonging to the extended Abu Shamala family and killing at least 15 people.

PENTAGON SAYS AIR BASE IN IRAQ SUSTAINED MINOR DAMAGE AFTER ATTEMPTED ATTACK

WASHINGTON  The Pentagon said Thursday that there was an attempted attack at Irbil air base in Iraq but there were no casualties and only minor damage to the facilities.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, declined to detail which Iranian-backed groups may be responsible for the recent spate of attacks at bases in Iraq and Syria.

He said there have been at least 12 attacks in Iraq and four in Syria, and 21 U.S. personnel sustained minor injuries in two separate attacks early last week. Of those, 19 had some type of traumatic brain injury, and all 21 returned to duty.

There have been no reported injuries since those two attacks on Oct. 17-18.

FAMILY OF 6 AMERICANS TRAPPED IN GAZA PLEAD FOR HELP FROM BIDEN

ANAHEIM, Calif.  Family members of six American citizens trapped in Gaza pleaded Thursday for President Joe Biden to help their relatives get out from what started as a long-awaited vacation and turned into a horrific nightmare of bombardments and smoke.

Shamiss Kaoud, 33, of Moreno Valley, California, said she and her sister have been calling the U.S. State Department daily to try to get her 68-year-old father, Jamal, his four brothers and one of her cousins evacuated from the war zone.

No one is listening. No one is helping. Its as if nobody cares, she told reporters at a press conference in Anaheim, California. Shouldnt being a U.S. citizen matter?

The group traveled to Gaza in late September to visit family and has since gone three times to Gazas Rafah crossing but been unable to get out.

Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in greater Los Angeles, said the State Department has estimated 600 Palestinian Americans are stuck in Gaza.

The life of every citizen in America should be the priority of our government, he said.

US WILL RESPOND TO RECENT ATTACKS ON TROOPS STATIONED IN MIDEAST AT TIME OF OUR CHOOSING, WHITE HOUSE SAYS

WASHINGTON  A White House spokesman said Thursday that the United States would respond at a time of our choosing and a manner of our choosing to a recent spate of attacks said to have been carried out by Iranian-backed groups against U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East.

The blunt warning from White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby came a day after President Joe Biden said Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been directly warned that the U.S. would respond if Iran or its proxies continued to attack U.S. troops. Attacks on U.S. troops in the region have increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.

Asked on Thursday to provide further details on how that message was delivered to Khamenei, Kirby declined to elaborate.

IRAQI MILITIA SAYS IT ATTACKED BASE HOUSING US TROOPS

BAGHDAD  An Iranian-backed militia says it carried out an attack Thursday with two suicide drones against a base housing U.S. troops in northern Iraq.

The Islamic Resistance, an umbrella group for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it attacked the American occupation base near the airport of the city of Irbil with two drones that directly hit their targets.

It gave no further details.

The past week has seen more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria. Most were claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against U.S. backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

CYPRUS PITCHES LINKING ITS MAIN PORT TO GAZA AS A HUMANITARIAN AID CORRIDOR

NICOSIA, Cyprus  Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides says the island nation is ready to act as a hub for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Christodoulides told reporters in Brussels on Thursday that he proposed to fellow European Union leaders the establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor linking Cyprus main port of Limassol to Gaza. The Cypriot president said he discussed the idea with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

Government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis told The Associated Press that EU leaders showed interest in the proposal.

DISPLAYS AND DEMONSTRATIONS AROUND THE WORLD SPOTLIGHT PLIGHT OF HOSTAGES

PARIS  The absence of more than 200 people held hostage by Hamas is being felt  and seen  in places around the world.

Thirty empty baby strollers were displayed on a lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower on Thursday, each with a photo of one of the children being held. Two hundred empty plastic chairs were also lined up outside the United Nations European headquarters in Geneva with photos of the missing.

Family members and Jewish groups are keeping the spotlight on the people taken captive by Hamas militants Oct. 7 as Israel continues to pound the Gaza Strip with airstrikes and prepares for a ground invasion.

Our goal is to  raise the level of public awareness regarding the situation of these children, Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France, said of the Eiffel Tower display. It is not acceptable to have hostages, and it is even more unacceptable to have children hostages.

Arfis group also arranged empty baby carriages in the French coastal cities of Nice and Marseille.

A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

Demonstrators and family members of hostages taken from the kibbutz Kfar Azza called Thursday for their release in a street protest in Tel Aviv.

A poster said 62 people from the kibbutz had been slain, 17 were kidnapped and one was missing. Hundreds more were wounded.

I want my brother back, said Ido Shamriz, brother of Alon Shamriz. I want him (back) now. Bring all the kidnapped people now to Israel, now.

IRANS FOREIGN MINISTER SAYS IT STANDS READY TO PLAY ITS PART IN RELEASE OF HOSTAGES

UNITED NATIONS  Irans foreign minister says Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel and is stressing that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 taken captive.

Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime.

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

But I warn, if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, Amirabdollahian said. It is our home, and west Asia is our region. We do not compromise with any party and any side, and we have no reservation when it comes to our home security.

RUSSIAN AND IRANIAN OFFICIALS MEET IN MOSCOW TO DISCUSS ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

MOSCOW  A senior Iranian diplomat discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip with a Kremlin Mideast envoy Thursday.

Irans Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri met with Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who serves as the Kremlin envoy for the Middle East.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said diplomats emphasized the need for a cessation of hostilities in and around the Gaza Strip and the prompt provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected Palestinian population.

It added that they also reaffirmed a shared commitment by Moscow and Tehran to continue close coordination of efforts in the interests of stabilizing the situation in the Middle East.

By The Associated Press
Polands president calls for new parliament to hold first session Nov. 13 View Photo

WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Polands president said Thursday that he is calling the first session of the countrys newly elected parliament for Nov. 13.

President Andrzej Dudas announcement launches a timetable that will lead to the formation of a new government after Polands national election on Oct. 15. He must also announce a candidate for prime minister but said that decision would come later.

Duda said there were two serious candidates for the post, the current prime minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, and Donald Tusk, a former prime minister who is the head of an opposition bloc that collectively won a majority of seats in the new parliament  248 seats in the 460-seat lower house, or Sejm.

Morawiecki belongs to the ruling conservative Law and Justice party. It won more votes than any other single party in the election but lost its majority in parliament. The party secured 194 seats and has no potential coalition government partner. Still, Law and Justice has said it considers itself the winner and is asking to be given the first chance to try to form a government.

Today, we have two serious candidates for the post of prime minister, Duda said after holding consultations earlier this week with the party leaders.

This is a new situation, one might say, in our democratic standards, he said, adding he must still give the matter his consideration.

Duda noted that the constitutional term of the outgoing parliament runs til Nov. 12 and that he sees no reason to shorten it.

The decision means there will not be a new government in place for some time, and possibly not until December if the president first taps Morawiecki. In such a case, Morawiecki would have 14 days to present a Cabinet to parliament for confirmation.

If his proposed government fails to win parliaments backing, which appears to be an inevitable outcome, it would then fall to parliament to present its candidate. In that case the parliamentary majority would choose Tusk.

Tusk said he hoped Duda would not drag out the process unnecessarily.

Time is priceless for Poland at the moment, Tusk told reporters in Brussels, where he was holding meetings to try to repair ties with the 27-member bloc and to get a head start on unlocking billions of euros in funding that were frozen due to rule of law violations under the government of the past eight years.

Firstly, the money may be lost. Secondly, we have to spend this gigantic money within two years, so any delay is absolutely unacceptable here, Tusk said.

By VANESSA GERA

Associated Press
WASHINGTON  Republicans unanimously elected Rep. Mike Johnson as House speaker on Wednesday, eagerly elevating a deeply conservative but lesser-known leader to the major seat of U.S. power and ending for now the weeks of political chaos in their majority.

Johnson, 51, of Louisiana, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put the past weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn into office, second in line to the presidency.

The peoples House is back in business, Johnson declared after taking the gavel.

A lower-ranked member of the House GOP leadership team, Johnson emerged as the fourth Republican nominee in what had become an almost absurd cycle of political infighting since Kevin McCarthys ouster as GOP factions jockeyed for power. While not the partys top choice for the gavel, the deeply religious and even-keeled Johnson has few foes and an important GOP backer: Donald Trump.

I think hes gonna be a fantastic speaker, Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the former president, who is now the Republican front-runner for president in 2024, is on trial over a lawsuit alleging business fraud.

Three weeks on without a House speaker, the Republicans have been wasting their majority status  a maddening embarrassment to some, democracy in action to others, but not at all how the House is expected to function.

President Joe Biden called to congratulate the new speaker and said its time for all of us to act responsibly with challenges ahead to fund the government and provide aid for Ukraine and Israel.

We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

In the House, far-right members had refused to accept a more traditional speaker, and moderate conservatives didnt want a hard-liner. While Johnson had no opponents during a private party roll call late Tuesday, some two dozen Republicans did not vote, more than enough to sink his nomination.

But when GOP Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik rose to introduce Johnsons name Wednesday as their nominee, Republicans jumped to their feet for a standing ovation.

House Republicans and Speaker Mike Johnson will never give up, she said.

Democrats again nominated their leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York, criticizing Johnson as an architect of Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

With Republicans controlling the House only 221-212 over Democrats, Johnson could afford just a few detractors to win the gavel. He won 220-209, with a few absences.

Jeffries said House Democrats will find common ground work with Republicans whenever possible for the good of the country.

Lawmakers quickly reconvened to get back to work, approving a resolution saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. Next, they turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Overnight the endorsements for Johnson started pouring in, including from the failed speaker hopefuls. Rep. Jim Jordan, the hard-charging Judiciary Committee chairman backed by Trump, gave his support, as did Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the fellow Louisiana congressman rejected by Jordans wing, who stood behind Johnson after he won the nomination.

Mike! Mike! Mike! lawmakers chanted at a press conference after the late-night internal vote, surrounding Johnson and posing for selfies in a show of support.

Anxious and exhausted, Republican lawmakers are desperately trying to move on.

Johnsons rise comes after a tumultuous month, capped by a head-spinning Tuesday that within a span of a few hours saw one candidate, Rep. Tom Emmer, the GOP Whip, nominated and then quickly withdraw when it became clear he would be the third candidate unable to secure enough support from GOP colleagues after Trump bashed his nomination.

He wasnt MAGA, said Trump.

Attention quickly turned to Johnson. A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson had rallied Republicans around Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 election results.
Its disturbing to hear that health care workers, those tasked with the essential work of treating those typically in a most vulnerable condition, are increasingly targets of violence. To say its unacceptable is stating the obvious, and words are only going to go so far. Recent action by the Connecticut Hospital Association, which represents 27 of Connecticuts acute-care hospitals, should help put those words into action.

A recent Record-Journal story highlighted the serious nature of developments, citing data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that indicate instances of workplace violence injury are five times as likely to affect the health care and social services industries than workers overall. A UConn Health nurse told the R-J that in four years in the emergency room shes seen coworkers attacked  some, for example, requiring stitches after being punched in the face. The nurse said shed had a knife pulled on her, and a urinal thrown at her.

Theres not a day goes by that we dont come into the emergency room and know that we are going to be facing some kind of violence, whether it be physical or whether it be verbal abuse that we take from patients, said Teresa Marx.

Counteracting this trend has to start somewhere, and for Connecticut hospitals that entails adopting a code of conduct that prohibits, as the R-J story noted, aggressive or violent behavior, threats, abusive language, discriminatory language, sexual harassment and weapons. Other than being asked to leave, consequences for violating the policy are not listed in the policy.

Yet its considered significant because it establishes the importance of a safe environment for workers.

There is a shortage of health care workers, said Ena Williams, senior vice president and chief nursing officer at Yale New Haven Hospital. We have expertise, we have knowledge, we have skills, we have tools, we have talents, we have abilities, but we cant do that to the best of our ability if were constantly being bombarded with the kinds of behaviors that we face in our communities.

Those who work in emergency rooms and other environments where interaction with patients is routine deserve to feel confident they can perform their work without being threatened or subject to violence. Its too bad a policy establishing that has to be enacted, but now that it has it can be seen as an important step, an important statement of support.
The United States condemns the prison sentences meted out to Iranian journalists Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi. Arrested in September 2022 after reporting on events surrounding the death in police custody of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, the two journalists have already spent more than a year in Tehrans notorious Evin prison. Aminis death sparked prolonged nation-wide protests, presenting the greatest threat to the regime since it came to power in 1979.

Both journalists were charged with the crimes of spreading propaganda against the system, acting against national security, and collaborating with the United States. Hamedi had broken the news of Aminis grave condition after the young Kurdish-Iranian woman was arrested in Tehran for improperly wearing her hijab. Mohammadi had reported on Aminis funeral and the thousands of people who attended it.

The trials for the two were held behind closed doors in July. On October 22, their sentences were announced by Irans judiciary: Mohammadi to six years in prison, Hamedi to seven years. In addition, the judiciarys online website said each was also given concurrent sentences of five years for conspiring against state security and one year for propaganda against the Islamic Republic.

The long prison terms have caused outrage. U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Iran Abram Paley wrote on the platform X, Niloufar and Elaheh should never have been jailed, and we condemn their sentences. The Iranian regime jails journalists because it fears the truth. Yes, as the Iranian regimes dubious distinction as one of the worlds worst jailer of journalists shows.

News of the prison sentences for Mohammadi and Hamedis reporting on the appalling fate of Mahsa Amini for wearing her veil too loosely also comes against a terrible backdrop: reports that another young woman, 16-year-old Armita Geravand, is now brain dead in a hospital after an alleged encounter in Tehran with police over appearing in the subway without a hijab.

Deputy Special Envoy Paley wrote on X about her case as well: Shocked and concerned about reports that Irans so-called morality police have assaulted 16-year-old Armita Geravand. We are following news of her condition. We continue to stand with the brave people of Iran and work with the world to hold the regime accountable for its abuses.
A 52-year-old man was among eight suspects apprehended for engaging in fraudulent activities, including an audacious attempt to write an exam on behalf of another candidate, according to the Zimbabwe School Examinations Council (Zimsec).

Zimsec confirmed that, thus far, no candidates had gained unauthorized access to examination papers.

The initial arrest occurred when a suspect circulated a counterfeit scanned copy of a Mathematics paper. This led to the identification and subsequent arrest of a first-year student from Midlands State University (MSU), who then implicated an Ordinary Level student at Emmanuel Centre of Excellence in Kuwadzana Extension, Harare.

Zimsec released a statement on October 15, 2023, alerting the public to the existence of fraudsters who were promoting and selling counterfeit 2023 November examination papers through social media platforms. The statement emphasized that no November 2023 Zimsec candidates had obtained advance access to the question papers.

The examination body, in collaboration with law enforcement, conducted investigations to apprehend the fraudsters taking advantage of unsuspecting candidates. As a result, several arrests were made, and the culprits have already appeared before the courts.

Zimsecs security and loss control officers, with the assistance of the police, arrested Cole Mutandwa from Kuwadzana, who was involved in advertising and selling fake Zimsec examination question papers. During questioning, Mutandwa implicated Paddington Nhedza, a first-year student at Midlands State University, as the source of the counterfeit question papers found on his cell phone.

Nhedza, after being brought to Harare for interrogation, revealed that he had received the fake scanned copy of the Maths question paper from Alishah Mangisi, an Ordinary Level student at Emmanuel Centre of Excellence. According to Nhedzas statement, Mangisi claimed to have obtained the counterfeit question paper from a WhatsApp group called Slimy Intertainment, primarily for models, and forwarded it to Nhedza for assistance.

George Bukuta, aged 52, was arrested by the investigation team after an invigilator at Life Long College noticed his impersonation of Shadreck Mutsau, an exam candidate, using a passport indicating a birth date of May 5, 1995. Bukuta confessed that he had been paid US$200 by Shadreck Mutsau, candidate number 5036, to write A-level Family and Religious Studies and History exams on his behalf.

Another incident involved Simbarashe Chifura, who conducted extra lessons at his residence in Budiriro 1. Chifura approached Mr. Edwell Tazvivinga, a teacher at Danbrough College, proposing a deal to smuggle a Zimsec examination answer sheet out of the exam room. He intended to use the answer sheet to write the Ordinary Level combined science Paper 2 for external candidate number 3112, Monica Mikairi.

Mr. Tazvivinga promptly reported the incident to his superiors, who then alerted officials from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education and the police. They devised a plan to catch the culprit in the act. During the exam, Mikairi was observed not writing anything throughout the entire session.

Meanwhile, Chifura enlisted the help of a motor mechanic named Patrick Zhanje to collect the answer sheet. However, the police apprehended Zhanje while he was handing over the answer sheet to Chifura, leading to the arrest of both individuals.

In response to these cases uncovered during the investigations, Zimsec continues to implement strategies and measures to enhance security for question papers during transit and custody, ensuring the integrity of the examination process.

Zimsec expressed appreciation for the vigilance and integrity demonstrated by center administrators and invigilators who are diligently working to uphold the integrity of the examination and the education system as a whole.

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CCC Boycotts Muppet Show By-Elections

CCC leader Nelson Chamisa has declared that his party will boycott upcoming by-elections, dismissing them as little more than a Muppet Show.

In an interview this week, Chamisa said the CCC sees the December 9th votes as irrelevant sideshows rather than meaningful political processes.

This comes amid an ongoing leadership clash stemming from disputed recalls of CCC MPs and local councillors. Sengezo Tshabangu controversially declared himself interim secretary-general and wrote to electoral authorities stating only he could approve candidates. However, Chamisa says Tshabangu is an imposter and fraudster with no real CCC affiliation.

When asked if recalled representatives would participate, Chamisa indicated the CCC would not legitimize the criminal and unconstitutional recalls by taking part. He questioned whether their party looks like characters who would join a Muppet Show. Chamisa accused Zanu-PF of deliberately recognizing Tshabangus bogus actions despite knowing hes not a real CCC member.

The disputed recalls will undergo court review in early November. For now, Chamisas strong rhetoric suggests the CCC sees little value in engaging with electoral procedures they view as flawed and illegitimate. Their boycott underscores the ongoing political tensions in Zimbabwe as the battle for control and credibility continues.

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A daring trick almost paid off for one suspected criminal, but his deception was uncovered in the end. Godfrey Magadu, 31, faced charges in court yesterday related to an attempted armed robbery and providing false information to authorities.

According to reports, Magadu and accomplices planned to rob the Chemical Merchants Company in Waterfalls, Armed with shotguns, they confronted two security guards  Given Nyakarare and Samson Mupandawana, who were armed with a revolver. A violent confrontation ensued, with the guards fighting back against being overpowered.

In the commotion, Mr. Nyakarare managed to escape and hide while Mr. Mupandawana was assaulted. The robbers demanded to know where valuables were kept, smashing doors in the process. Realizing a guard had fled, they pursued him but were met with gunfire. One member of the gang was fatally shot in the forehead in the exchange.

Though injured in the side by a gunshot, Magadu survived and escaped the scene. The robbers fled with their dead accomplice in tow, later dumping the body over a kilometer away.

In a bold move, Magadu then went to the police station on October 18th, claiming to be a man named Franklyin Mubaiwa who had been robbed and shot at Masteps in Hopley.

Hoping for medical assistance, he said hed sought private treatment first and was referred to the police first before he could be attended to since it was a gunshot wound. Acting on the false report and noting his state, police gave him a request of medical treatment form and made arrangements that he be taken to Sally Mugabe Hospital for treatment.

He was later referred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. However, at Parirenyatwa, the truth was uncovered  he was no victim, but in fact the suspected robber from the harrowing attempted heist. Hes now receiving medical treatment under guard and awaits his fate in court.

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Zimbabweans remain divided over sanctions debate

The issue of sanctions against Zimbabwe continues to stir passionate debate within the country. On Zimbabwes Anti-Sanctions Day yesterday, the ruling ZANU-PF party led marches through the capital Harare calling for an end to restrictive measures imposed by Western nations over two decades ago.

However, the opposition CCC party dismissed the days focus on sanctions, instead using social media to highlight the negative effects of corruption within government. They argue that lifting sanctions alone will not solve Zimbabwes economic woes without also addressing the ruling elites misuse of public funds.

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga told demonstrators in Harares Unity Square that sanctions have cost Zimbabwe over US$150 billion USD in lost GDP and foreign investment since 2000. However, others note that both sanctions and domestic turmoil, like the violent land redistribution that prompted them, have harmed the economy.

While government officials see sanctions as an unfair attack on sovereignty, the CCC and others claim more progress could have been made if not for alleged corruption siphoning funds. International allies of Zimbabwe like Palestine and Cuba voiced strong support for lifting sanctions unconditionally.

With citizens divided in their analysis of the complex issues facing Zimbabwe, the debate over how best to improve living standards and foreign relations will likely continue amid these competing narratives around sanctions and governance. Most agree the path forward requires concerted effort against both external pressures and domestic challenges.

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State utility Zesa Holdings has warned citizens to brace for significantly worsening blackouts over the next month due to breakdowns at their main coal plant.

The outages are attributed to technical faults at the Hwange Power Station and scheduled maintenance on one of its units. As a result, the Energy and Power Development minister, Edgar Moyo, has made a plea to independent power producers (IPPs) to step in and prevent a complete blackout across the nation.

Zimbabweans are already grappling with prolonged load-shedding, enduring up to 12 hours of power cuts per day. Zesa has reported reduced electricity generation at the Hwange coal-fired power station due to the technical faults. Additionally, the maintenance work scheduled for Hwange Unit 7, which was synchronized in March 2023, is expected to take place over the next 30 days. This maintenance is a statutory requirement that necessitates taking the unit offline after a specified running period.

To address the ongoing maintenance issues affecting the transmission and distribution network, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) recently announced new tariff adjustments. These adjustments aim to assist the power utility in resolving numerous faults. The latest tariff award translates to an average of 13.28 US cents per kilowatt-hour for all customers.

During an annual strategic plan performance review workshop, Minister Moyo highlighted the need for Zesa to focus on reducing losses during power transmission. He emphasized the importance of IPPs in complementing the governments efforts to address energy challenges. Currently, IPPs contribute over 90 MW of power to the national grid, a capacity that is expected to increase to over 130 MW by the end of the year through various ongoing projects.

Despite having licensed over 100 small IPP projects over the past five years, with a combined capacity of approximately 1,300 MW, many of these projects remain non-operational. The Gwanda Solar Project, awarded to businessman Wicknell Chivayo, has faced legal battles and delays in delivery. The power cuts experienced in the country are severely impacting businesses, with some being forced to scale down operations and temporarily lay off employees.

Representatives from various sectors, including the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries and the Medical and Dental Private Practitioners Association of Zimbabwe, have expressed concerns about the detrimental effects of prolonged power cuts on industries and essential services, such as healthcare.

Minister Moyo assured that efforts are underway to operationalize Hwange Units 7 and 8, enabling maintenance work to be conducted without interrupting power distribution. The completion of the expansion project will also allow the life extension project for Hwange units 1 to 6 to proceed, aiming to achieve the installed capacity of 1,400 MW.

Zesa previously abandoned the Mutare peaking power station project due to the high cost of using diesel for electricity generation. The 100 MW Dema diesel power plant, built by Sakunda Holdings in 2016, has also been abandoned.

The current power challenges in Zimbabwe highlight the urgent need for reliable and sustainable energy solutions to meet the countrys growing demand and prevent disruptions to daily life, businesses, and essential services.

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The United States believes the United Nations has a crucial role to play in addressing the crisis in the Middle East precipitated by Hamas appalling terrorist attack against Israel on October 7. The United States has put forward a resolution that sets out practical steps that we can take together toward that end, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

First, we all recognize the right, and indeed the imperative, of states to defend themselves against terrorism, he said. Thats why we must unequivocally condemn Hamass barbaric terrorist attack against Israel  babies riddled with bullets; young people hunted down and gunned down with glee; people, young people beheaded; families burned alive in a final embrace; parents executed in front of their children; children executed in front of their parents; and so many taken hostage in Gaza.

Second, we all agree on the vital need to protect civilians, stated Secretary Blinken:

We know Hamas does not represent the Palestinian people, and Palestinian civilians are not to blame for the carnage committed by Hamas. Palestinian civilians must be protected. That means Hamas must cease using them as human shields. Its had to think of an act of greater cynicism. It means Israel must take all possible precautions to avoid harm to civilians. It means food, water, medicine, and other essential humanitarian assistance must be able to flow into Gaza and to the people who need them.

It is also critical that this conflict not widen, said Secretary Blinken:

To that end, we call on all member states to send a firm united message to any state or non-state actor that is considering opening another front in this conflict against Israel or who may target Israels partners, including the United States: Dont. Dont throw fuel on the fire.

The United States does not seek conflict with Iran, said Secretary Blinken. But if Iran or its proxies attack U.S. personnel anywhere, make no mistake: We will defend our people, we will defend our security  swiftly and decisively.

And finally, we all agree that we must redouble our collective efforts to build an enduring political solution to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, said Secretary Blinken.

The United States stands ready to work with anyone whos ready to forge a more peaceful and secure future for the region.
A MAN from Harare has been sentenced to 10 years in jail for stealing railway line bars.

Jeffred Muzika appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs Evelyn Mashavakure who convicted him of theft.

Prosecutor Mrs Belinda Chimuka told the court that on September 14 this year, National Railways of Zimbabwe loss control officers were on a routine patrol along the railway line.

The court heard that upon approaching beat 3 and 4, loss control officers noticed Muzika and his accomplice removing components from the railway line.

They approached the two and upon realising that they have been seen, the accomplice fled, leaving behind Muzika who was then arrested after the security called for reinforcements as he was resisting.

The loss control officers then realised that it was Muzika who had removed the stretcher bar, point lever and coach screw from the railway line which they recovered as exhibits. The total value of stolen items is US$180.

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We recently had a debate in the comments section about the (de)merits of getting multiple vaccinations at once (as in ones designed, safety-tested and approved as individual shots). Reader Daryl reported his contrasting experience with the positive reader reports about getting a Novavax booster, which should by virtue of its more traditional design, cause much less in the way of reactions than mRNA jabs:

Im having my own novavax (+ flu) vaccine experience this morning woke up with a headache, muscle aches and temperature dysregulation at 2:30 AM after a few hours of poor sleep. About the same effect as the moderna boosters had on me.

Your humble blogger was perhaps not as sympathetic as I should have been, pointing Novavax + flu vaccine is not the same as Novavax in isolation and that IM Doc has seen a lot of his patients having trouble after pharmacies pushed them to get other vaccines at the same time as their Covid booster. As IM Doc had reported by e-mail earlier that month:

Many patients getting all three at the same time flu, Covid and RSV. They are getting really sick with flu like illness. And the story is always the same. Medicare patients going to the pharmacy to get a flu shot and ending up with all 3 at the strong encouragement of the pharmacist. Why not? Patients are now considered profit centers. They turn that 85 dollar flu shot sale into a 400 something dollar sale with the other two shots..

We added some additional advice from him:

I would tell you that any of the shingles vaxx should be taken by themselves in isolation for a month or so before or after any other vaccines. They can often be very harsh.

Readers pointed out that supposed informed sources, such as a site called Everyday Health, who in this case had an English major offering medical advice (with the article reviewed by a sole expert), that it was safe to get Covid and flu vaccine tout ensemble. Note the issue presented was not safety but discomfort. Recall the Covid mRNA shots are deemed safe even with causing many to have to skip a day or two of work after getting them, an outcome hourly laborers cannot afford.

There appear to have been enough people having bad outcomes from a flu + Covid jab combo that the FDA took the rare step of rousing itself to weigh in. And it didnt result in this practice getting a clean bill of health. From CNN in Covid shots may slightly increase risk of stroke in older adults, particularly when administered with certain flu vaccines:

Vaccines for Covid-19 and influenza may slightly increase the risk of strokes caused by blood clots in the brains of seniors, particularly when the two vaccines are given at the same time and when they are given to adults who are age 85 and older, according to a new study. The safety signal was detected by experts at the US Food and Drug Administration who analyzed data from Medicare claims. It is the second study to find an elevated risk of stroke for seniors after Covid-19 and flu vaccinations given together. The US Centers for Disease Control and FDA issued a public communication in January explaining that one of their near real-time vaccine safety monitoring studies  called the Vaccine Safety Datalink  had picked up a small and uncertain risk of stroke for older adults who received a dose of Pfizers bivalent Covid-19 vaccine and a high-dose or adjuvanted flu shot on the same day. That study triggered the FDAs broader look at strokes after vaccination noted in the medical records of seniors on Medicare. That said, the risk identified in the FDAs study appears to be very small  roughly 3 strokes or transient ischemic attacks for every 100,000 doses given  and the study found it may be primarily driven by the high-dose or adjuvanted flu vaccines, which are specially designed to rev up the immune system so it mounts a stronger response to the shot. A few weeks ago, however, Dr. Peter Marks, head of FDAs Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, said he was planning to get his Covid-19 vaccine first, followed by his influenza vaccine about two weeks later. If you want to minimize the chance of interactions and minimize confusing the side effects from one with another, you wait about two weeks between the vaccines, Marks said on an FDA stakeholder call in September.

Mind you, this report covered only getting the two vaccines, not Covid + flu shot + RSV vaccine, the new pharmacy trifecta. And it covered only stroke risk, not getting flu-like symptoms.when the whole point is not to get sick or be the functional equivalent of sick.

And thats before flu vaccines having underwhelming efficacy. From a 2019 article in Vaccine:

Analysis included 20,022 adults aged 18 years enrolled during the 201112 through 201516 influenza seasons; 4,785 (24%) tested positive for influenza. VE among patients aged 65 years was not significantly lower than VE among patients aged 1849 years against any subtype with no significant interaction of age and vaccination. VE against A(H3N2) viruses was 14% (95% confidence interval [CI]14% to 36%) for adults 65 years and 21% (CI 9%-32%) for adults 1849 years. VE against A(H1N1)pdm09 was 49% (95% CI 22%-66%) for adults 65 years and 48% (95% CI 41%-54%) for adults 1849 years and against B viruses was 62% (95% CI 44%74%) for adults 65 years and 55% (95% CI 45%-63%) for adults 1849 years. There was no significant interaction of age and vaccination for separate strata of prior vaccination status.

GoodRx similarly notes that flu vaccines typically have 40% to 60% efficacy.

On the CNN article and the vogue for doubling or tripling up on vaccinations:

This is being done against all traditions and recommendations of the past. Now it is Covid + flu shots. As far as I can tell, this is being done only in pharmacies. Those places where patients are called profit centers. An 85 year old walks into Walgreens for a 25$ flu shot, and then suddenly convinced to get a Covid booster at 185$ a pop and then an RSV vaccine for $300. A 25$ visit suddenly becomes 500$. Who cares about the strokes. Or the huge number of them flat on their back for 3 days. What a joke our entire system has become. If people only knew how much of my day was taken up securing the cash flow for Pharma they would be shocked.

It is depressing the degree to which patients need to be their own advocates and not blindly follow the advice of supposed medical professionals.
Highlights

The EIB and Vietnam have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on shared goals designed to deliver Vietnam's Just Energy Transition.

The memorandum calls for increased investment of 500 million by EIB Global to support Vietnam as it works to accelerate an energy transition that will benefit both people and the planet.

The agreement demonstrates EIB Global's commitment to promoting investment in climate mitigation and resilience, part of the EU's Global Gateway initiative.

At the Global Gateway Forum held in Brussels today, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Vietnam to support the implementation of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) in the country. The signing was attended by Teresa Czerwinska, Vice-President of the EIB; Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission; and Tran Hong Ha, Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister.

This memorandum signifies a mutual commitment to put in place a multi-project credit facility worth 500 million, soon to be finalised. Once established, the facility will allow projects supporting decarbonisation and energy transition to be financed under a framework loan.

At the signing, EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwinska explained, "The EIB's 500 million commitment goes beyond finance, driving a transition to sustainable energy and a resilient economy in Vietnam. Through initiatives like Global Gateway we, together with the European Commission, are turning global challenges into opportunities for sustainable development and innovation."

Speaking at the Brussels event, President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said, "Today, we are taking an important step to support Vietnam's ambitious net zero goal for 2050. The European Commission, the EIB and Vietnam are partnering to support the renewable energy transition and energy security. With this 500 million of funding, Global Gateway is making a difference for the people of Vietnam.

Background information

Through Global Gateway, the European Union is committed to helping Vietnam achieve a just energy transition and reach its national and international climate goals through an effective JETP. The implementation of Global Gateway in Vietnam will also focus on the areas of green, circular economy and sustainability, as well as education and skills. This includes projects on forest value chains, skills development, and technical and vocational education and training, among others.

EIB Global is the EIB Group's new specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance outside the European Union. EIB Global is designed to foster strong, focused partnership within Team Europe and as part of the EU Global Gateway strategy, alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices around the world.

The Global Gateway Forum is the first gathering of its kind of government representatives from the European Union and across the globe, along with key stakeholders and thought leaders from the private sector, civil society, financial institutions and international organisations to promote global investment in transformative hard and soft infrastructure to deliver on the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Global Gateway is the European Union's strategy to reduce the worldwide investment gap and boost smart, clean and secure connections in the digital, energy and transport sectors, and to strengthen health, education and research systems. The Global Gateway strategy embodies a Team Europe approach that brings together the European Union, Member States and European development finance institutions. It aims to mobilise up to 300 billion in public and private investments between 2021 and 2027, creating essential links rather than dependencies, and closing the global investment gap.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the Prime Minister of Moldova Dorin Recean to NATO Headquarters on Thursday (26 October 2023). He praised NATO and Moldovas 30-year-long partnership and called on Russia to withdraw its troops from Moldovas territory.

Moscow continues to apply pressure on Moldova, the NATO Secretary General said. Including energy blackmail and disinformation with the aim of destabilising your society and undermining your democracy.

At the Vilnius Summit Allies had agreed on continuing to step up NATOs longstanding practical and political cooperation with Moldova. This will also help you on the path towards EU membership, Mr. Stoltenberg said. He thanked Moldova for contributing to the KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo. Stability in the Western Balkans matters for all of us.
Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva of Cabo Verde to NATO Headquarters on Thursday (26 October 2023).

Noting that NATO and Cabo Verde share the same values of freedom, democracy, and human rights, Mr Stoltenberg said that NATO is stepping up cooperation with partners to defend our values and the rules-based international order. He underlined that NATO already has partners in North Africa and is strengthening cooperation with the African Union to address common challenges, including terrorism, climate change, and small arms proliferation.

The Secretary General welcomed Cabo Verdes clear stance on Ukraine, including through votes at the UN General Assembly. He said that Russias war of aggression on Ukraine, instability in the Middle East and the ongoing threat of terrorism remind us that our security is not regional, it is global and that what happens in Europe matters for Africa, and what happens in Africa, matters for Europe.

In 2006 Cabo Verde hosted the NATO exercise Steadfast Jaguar in Flamingo Bay on the island of Sao Vicente. This major exercise involving more than 7,000 troops tested the ability of NATOs rapid response force to carry out missions anywhere at any time.
(As delivered)

Prime Minister Recean,

Dear Dorin,

Welcome to NATO.

It is a great pleasure to welcome you here.

NATO and the Republic of Moldova have worked together for 30 years.

And in these very challenging times, we are further deepening our partnership.

Moscow continues to apply pressure on Moldova,

Including energy blackmail and disinformation,

With the aim of destabilising your society and undermining your democracy.

But Moldova has responded with resolve.

Condemning Putins war of aggression against Ukraine.

And strengthening your resilience and security at home.

NATO fully supports Moldovas sovereignty and territorial integrity.

And we call on Russia to withdraw its forces from your territory.

You can count on our continued assistance.

Earlier this year, NATO agreed a substantial package,

to help strengthen your cyber defences and strategic communications,

and enhance your defence capacity.

And at the Vilnius Summit, Allies agreed to continue stepping up our practical and political cooperation.

This will also help you on the path towards EU membership.

Let me also thank Moldova for contributing to our KFOR peacekeeping mission in Kosovo.

Stability in the Western Balkans matters for all of us.

So once again Prime Minister, it is great to have you here. We have a great partnership with Moldova, and I look forward to our meeting. So welcome to NATO.
Political analyst: People HAVE HAD ENOUGH of COVID-19 restrictions

People have had enough of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions, which explains why many are indifferent to the mainstream media's fearmongering of a new variant  according to a political pundit.

Political analyst Timur Fomenko pointed this out in an Oct. 2 piece for Russia Today (RT). "The pandemic is long over and firmly a thing in the past," he wrote. A return to lockdowns, mask mandates and vaccination campaigns is "another trip down a rabbit hole," Fomenko continued.

According to him, people witnessed how Western governments  alongside Big Pharma and Big Tech  used COVID-19 as "scaremongering" to fulfill their commercial goals. This led to the public's trust being ruined, translating to skepticism and indifference over COVID-19 restrictions  if not active resistance.

Fomenko also mentioned how Western governments intensified their efforts to control the prevailing narrative on social media platforms. This they did by labeling dissenting viewpoints as "misinformation" and malicious propaganda from countries like China and Russia. "(Related: The governments sprawling effort to censor (true) information during the pandemic.)

"The COVID-19 pandemic thus saw one of the most comprehensive censorship campaigns Western governments had ever undertaken (at least before that of the Ukraine conflict), especially when it came to those who sought to question or challenge the need for vaccines. Governments have tried to aggressively reassert narrative control, stomping out dissent against their views, broadcast by establishment media."

Moreover, the political analyst said the COVID-19 vaccines were highly politicized and capitalized on by governments and pharmaceutical giants. The influence of Big Pharma played an essential role in shaping public opinion to favor their products.

"That is not because vaccines are 'bad' but because people saw the profits being raked in by their Big Pharma producers, saw how aggressively governments were pushing for their implementation and were skeptical as to whether the whole thing really served the 'public interest.' In other words, the method (propaganda and censorship) defeated the objective (introducing vaccines to save lives)."

No warm welcome for the return of COVID-19 mask mandates

Now that new COVID-19 variants are emerging, governments and institutions are slowly bringing back pandemic policies, particularly mask mandates so they can order people around. However, the public is now blatantly resisting the idea.

In August, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo told the public on his social media account not to comply, following news that President Joe Biden would soon order Americans to wear their masks. Ladapo accused the Biden administration of trying to reinstate "pandemic" tyranny just in time for the 2024 presidential election  the very same thing, in fact, that was pulled just before the 2020 presidential election.

"What do you call re-imposing mask policies that have been proven ineffective or restarting lockdowns that are known to cause harm? You don't call it sanity," Ladapo wrote. "These terrible policies only work with your cooperation. How about refusing to participate?"

Also in the Sunshine State, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed four bills in May that permanently prohibited COVID-19 mask and vaccine mandates in schools and businesses. "It makes all these protections that we've done over the last two years permanent," the governor said at the time, citing the laws as an effort to "prescribe freedom."

Thus, Fomenko's conclusion held true: "The public is not interested in making sacrifices again in the name of a disease that is already perceived to have 'gone away,' especially when it is believed there is an agenda behind doing so. Not just Big Pharma's, but also one of power centralization, censorship and narrative-control by governments."

Head over to Pandemic.news for more stories about the resurgence of COVID-19.

Watch this video explaining why the omicron XBB 1.5 variant is more likely to infect fully vaccinated individuals.

This video is from the AxeTruth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Trump: FEARMONGERING about new COVID-19 variants a "lunatic ploy" to rig 2024 elections.

CDC warns latest COVID-19 "variant" BA.2.86 infects the FULLY VACCINATED, admitting the vaccines dont work.

New wave of COVID-19 infections driven by omicron sub-variants hits China.

Here we go again: Another new covid "vaccine" to arrive next year, says Biden covid czar.

Pirola: New "highly mutated" COVID-19 strain discovered in the UK.

Sources include:

RT.com

FloridianPress.com

Breitbart.com

Brighteon.com
The Balfour Declaration allowed Zionist Jews to act as terrorists: A closer look

The Balfour Declaration: Context and Content

The Balfour Declaration was a result of various political and historical developments. In the context of World War I, the British wanted to garner the support of the global Jewish community, particularly in Russia and the US, to exert pressure on their governments to either stay in or join the war effort against the Central Powers. Furthermore, the British were also interested in gaining control over Palestine due to its strategic location.

(Article republished from Expose-News.com)

The declaration, addressed to Lord Rothschild, a leading British Jew, read:

His Majestys government view with favour the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people, and will use their best endeavours to facilitate the achievement of this object, it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.

This wording was intentionally ambiguous. While it expressed support for a Jewish national home, it did not define the parameters of this home or the means by which it would be established.

The Aftermath and the Mandate

Following the end of WWI, the League of Nations granted Britain a mandate to govern Palestine. The British now had to manage the conflicting nationalistic aspirations of both Arabs and Jews in the region. They issued a series of White Papers, or policy statements, aimed at clarifying their stance on the issue, but tensions only escalated.

By the 1930s and 1940s, Jewish immigration to Palestine increased significantly, spurred by anti-Semitic policies and persecution in Europe. This increased Jewish presence, coupled with land purchases that sometimes displaced Arab tenants, led to heightened tensions and violent confrontations.

The Contract and Allegations of Zionist Breaches

Many Palestinians saw the Balfour Declarations wording as a promise to protect their rights. Thus, they felt that the mass immigration of Jews and the establishment of a Jewish-majority state was a betrayal of this promise. From this perspective, some argue that the Zionists broke the contract.

It is essential, however, to approach the term contract with caution. The Balfour Declaration was not a legally binding treaty but rather a statement of intent. Nevertheless, its undeniable that many Palestinians were displaced during and after Israels War of Independence in 1948.

This event, referred to as the Nakba (or catastrophe) by Palestinians, led to the displacement of an estimated 700,000 Palestinians.

Zionists as Terrorists?

The label of terrorist is contentious and politically loaded. Its undeniable that certain Jewish paramilitary groups, like the Irgun and the Stern Gang, used violent and sometimes indiscriminate tactics against both British officials and Arab civilians in the pre-state period.

Such actions were controversial even within the Zionist movement. However, broadly painting the entire Zionist movement or the subsequent State of Israel as terrorist oversimplifies a complex historical narrative.

Irgun (Etzel)

The Irgun, or Etzel, was a Zionist paramilitary group that operated in the British Mandate of Palestine from 1931 to 1948. It was formed as a breakaway faction from the main Jewish defense organization, Haganah, due to ideological differences over how to respond to Arab attacks and British policies.

King David Hotel Bombing (1946): One of the most infamous actions undertaken by the Irgun was the bombing of the King David Hotel in Jerusalem, which housed the British administrative headquarters. The attack resulted in the deaths of 91 people, including Jews, Arabs, and British personnel. The Irgun claimed that they had provided a warning to evacuate the building, but this remains a point of contention. Deir Yassin Massacre (1948): Another controversial event was the assault on the village of Deir Yassin, carried out jointly by the Irgun and another extremist group, Lehi. The attack resulted in the deaths of over 100 Arab villagers. The events of Deir Yassin have been heavily debated, but the massacre had a profound psychological impact on the Palestinian Arab population, contributing to a mass exodus from their homes during the war.

Lehi (Stern Gang)

Lehi, often referred to as the Stern Gang after its founder Avraham Stern, was another radical Zionist paramilitary group. They believed in the forceful establishment of a Jewish state on both sides of the Jordan River and were known for their uncompromising stance against the British and those they perceived as enemies of the Jewish state.

Lord Moyne Assassination (1944): One of the high-profile actions carried out by Lehi was the assassination of Lord Moyne, the British Minister Resident in the Middle East. The group viewed him as an enemy of the Zionist cause. Count Bernadotte Assassination (1948): Lehi also orchestrated the assassination of Count Folke Bernadotte, a UN mediator, because they believed his proposals for the future of Palestine were detrimental to the Jewish states interests.

Its worth noting that the mainstream Jewish leadership, including David Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, often condemned the actions of these extremist groups. The newly established Israeli government even launched a military operation against the Irgun in 1948, known as the Altalena Affair, reflecting the deep divisions within the Jewish community over the use of violence and the vision for the new state.

When reflecting on the actions of these groups, its essential to remember the broader geopolitical context and the multitude of actors involved. While the violent acts of groups like the Irgun and Lehi were undeniable, labelling an entire national movement or subsequent state based on the actions of a fraction can be reductionist.

However, acknowledging and understanding these events is crucial for a comprehensive grasp of the regions history.

Conclusion

The Balfour Declaration is undeniably a seminal document in the history of Israel and Palestine. Its ambiguous nature laid the foundation for decades of conflict and controversy.

While the pain and grievances of the Palestinian people must be recognized and addressed, its also crucial to approach the topic with nuance, avoiding over-generalizations and understanding the multifaceted nature of historical events.

Read more at: Expose-News.com
Bipartisan panel report indicates U.S. should get ready for simultaneous wars with both China and Russia

The congressionally appointed bipartisan panel revealed on Thursday that the United States should be prepared for possible simultaneous wars with Russia and China . It has to expand its conventional forces, strengthen alliances and enhance its nuclear weapons modernization program, the panel report further advised.

The report from the Strategic Posture Commission came out amid the burgeoning tensions with China over Taiwan and other issues as well as the dragging and prolonged conflict of Ukraine with Russia. "The United States and its allies must be ready to deter and defeat both adversaries simultaneously," the commission said. "The U.S.-led international order and the values it upholds are at risk from the Chinese and Russian authoritarian regimes." (Related: WWIII looms: Biden administration working on another PROXY WAR involving Taiwan and China.)

The Chinese and Russian threats will become acute in the 2027-2035 timeframe so "decisions need to be made now in order for the nation to be prepared," included the 145-page report. The paper also said the 30-year U.S. nuclear arms modernization program, which began in 2010 and was estimated in 2017 to cost around $400 billion by 2046, must be fully funded to upgrade all warheads, delivery systems and infrastructure on schedule. It also recommended deploying more tactical nuclear weapons in Asia and Europe; developing plans to deploy some or all reserve U.S. nuclear warheads; and production of more B-21 stealth bombers and new Columbia-class nuclear submarines beyond the numbers now planned.

The panel also called for boosting the "size, type and posture" of U.S. and allied conventional forces. If such measures are not taken, the United States "will likely" have to increase its reliance on nuclear weapons, the report said.

According to Reuters, a senior official involved in the report declined to say if the panel's intelligence briefings showed any Chinese and Russian nuclear weapons cooperation. "We worry ... there may be ultimate coordination between them in some way, which gets us to this two-war construct," the official said on condition of anonymity.

For ZeroHedge's Tyler Durden, the report appears to be nothing more than a piece by a ghostwriter for the "military-industrial complex and the deep state, both of which stand to make quadrillions should the U.S. jump right into the coming world war." Durden further highlighted some details, such as the Congress creating the said panel of six Democrats and six Republicans to assess long-term threats to the United States and recommend changes in U.S. conventional and nuclear forces back in 2022. It accepted a Pentagon forecast that China's rapid nuclear arsenal expansion likely will give it 1,500 nuclear warheads by 2035, confronting America with a second major nuclear-armed rival for the first time.

Madelyn Creedon, a former deputy head of the agency that oversees U.S. nuclear weapons, and the vice chair, Jon Kyl, a retired Republican senator urged investing in war expenditures in the reports preface. "We do recognize budget realities, but we also believe the nation must make these investments," they claimed.

Kyl said the president and Congress must "take the case to the American people" that higher defense spending is a small price to pay "to hopefully preclude" a possible nuclear war involving the United States, China and Russia. Further drowning Americans into the deep Bidenflation, these neocons are recommending doubling defense spending to $2 trillion in order to "deter not one but two nuclear powers."

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden sees an opportunity to promote world peace by supporting and funding his proxy wars.

Bang up job so far, Chief. https://t.co/Ua3dutXx9o  Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) October 16, 2023

Blinken: China poses the most serious long-term challenge to the international order

Seemingly hyping the report, during his speech at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken unveiled the United States' multipronged strategy amid intensifying competition with China because according to him, China poses the "most serious long-term challenge to the international order."

As per Blinken, the Biden administration's strategy can be summed up in three words: invest, align and compete. "We will invest in the foundations of our strength here at home  our competitiveness, innovation and democracy. We will align our efforts with our network of allies and partners acting with common purpose and in common cause, and harnessing these two key assets well compete with China to defend our interests and build our vision for the future." He stressed that Biden is not seeking to block Beijing's role as a "major power," but is looking to protect what he called the "rules-based order," which he said maintains global stability and has enabled China's own rise.

However, he complained that the East Asian nation has become "more repressive at home and more aggressive abroad" under the rule of President Xi Jinping. "We see that in how Beijing has perfected mass surveillance within China and exported that technology to more than 80 countries. How it's advancing unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea, undermining peace and security, freedom of navigation and commerce," he said.

The U.S. secretary of state also cited China's close ties with Russia, which have persisted after the invasion of Ukraine despite Washington's warnings. Liu Pengyu spokesperson for Chinas Washington embassy told Reuters that China and the U.S. stand to gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation but also admitted the relationship was "at a critical crossroads."

Visit WWIII.news for more stories related to the ongoing conflicts in Europe and Asia.

Sources for this article include:

IDA.org

Reuters.com

ZeroHedge.com

AlJazeera.com
Bombing innocent children in Gaza is not defence, it constitutes a grievous war crime

The Gaza Strip is an area of about 365 sq km and is home to 2.3 million Palestinians, about half of whom are children. The number of people killed in Gaza since October 7th is already 84% higher than the total number of Palestinians killed in the 50-day conflict in 2014 and according to UNICEF children and women make up 60% of the casualties. Gaza authorities say that the approximate number killed is at least 5,087 and that includes 2,055 children and more than 15,000 people have been wounded.

(Article by Patricia Harrity republished from Expose-News.com)

A senior advisor to the Israeli Prime Minister, Mark Regev, however, said that the IDF does not target civilian structures. Philippe Lazzarini, Commissioner General of the UN, and head of the UN Palestine Refugee Agency (UNRWA) has reported that at least six people were killed when a UNRWA school being used as a shelter, was hit in the al-Maghazi camp in the middle region of the embattled Gaza Strip.

Dozens were injured (including UNRWA staff) and severe structural damage was caused to the school, he said. The numbers are likely to be higher. This is outrageous, and it again shows a flagrant disregard for the lives of civilians.

No place is safe in Gaza anymore, he warned, stressing that it was hit as Israeli airstrikes and bombardment continue, At least 4,000 people have taken refuge in this UNRWA school turned shelter. They had and still have nowhere else to go.

Opposing Views

Of course, there will always be opposing views on all topics, but the barbaric actions that lead to the deaths and injuries of innocent children, is arguably one topic we should all be in agreement about. Clearly, and shockingly not.

ICYMI: Israeli MK Merav Ben Ari: The children of Gaza brought it upon themselves US-UK-EU-armed Israel has killed over 2055 children in Gaza The only democracy in the Middle East pic.twitter.com/hp6b9eNYnU  Going Underground (@GUnderground_TV) October 24, 2023

Displaced children

A child in war has all sense of security ravaged  and having to flee the familiarity of a home in the middle of the night as neighbours cry and scream in fear and missiles rain down piles trauma on trauma, said Al Jazeera.

The estimated 1.4 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Gaza, around half of them children, who have had to flee from their homes in terror are taking refuge in other designated emergency shelters (DES) in increasingly dire conditions. Many of these shelters are overcrowded with extremely limited access to water, sanitation, and hygiene  conditions that are especially dangerous for young children.

Source https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/10/1142432

The mother of one family who had taken refuge in a United Nations school, Naima Fares spoke of her experiences We used to tell our kids theres no safer place than home, but this war has broken all the rules. On the second day, we ran out of our house with nothing, not even a change of clothes.

Fares said her children have been in a state of shock since that night, and she has had difficulties trying to keep them calm and distract them from the sounds of explosions, but with constant sounds of missiles and an overcrowded, this is difficult as it means there are children screaming all day and night,

Faress daughter Haneen says living in one is not making her feel secure.

Fares said We cant get a minute of peace or rest. and her son, cannot get the images of children killed or under the rubble out of his head, much less the images of injured children screaming in pain.

The young boy said I cant imagine how children with such small bodies can bear these huge missiles, he said. I cant understand how nobody does anything to help them. The children of Gaza have a right to live. They took everything from us.

UNICEF

They did take everything from them, due to orders from Netanyahu to cut vital essentials of food, water, fuel, and even electricity, which UNICEF says has also exacerbated food scarcity, making refrigeration impossible, and now with the cutting of water to Gaza it means many children are now resorting to contaminated water sources.

Although UNICEF supplied 44,000 bottles of drinking water on Saturday the 21st of October which managed to be driven through Rafah Crossing as part of the first 20-truck convoy since October 7th, this is only just enough for 22,000 people for 1 day, and now, according to Executive Director Catherine Russell One million children in Gaza are facing a critical protection and humanitarian crisis, the delivery of water is a matter of life or death. Every minute counts, she said (Source).

Although This first, limited water will save lives, but the needs are immediate and immense  not just for water, but for food, fuel, medicine, and essential goods and services. Unless we can provide humanitarian supplies consistently, we face the real threat of life-threatening disease outbreaks.

DEPRESSION, GRIEF AND FEAR

Moreover, the psychological impact on civilians and our children will also be catastrophic, said Mohammad Abu Rukbeh, a senior Gaza field researcher at DCIs Palestine branch. According to the NGO, the psychological toll on children who have survived the air strikes in Gaza is compounded by pre-existing traumas sustained from a 16-year siege on the strip.

In the Gaza Strip, childrens ages are measured by how many Israeli assaults they have been through. About half of Gazas population of 2.3 million is under 18, and the current offensive is Israels fifth major one in 15 years (source). The constant trauma according to a report by Save the Children, titled Trapped has resulted in:

Four out of five children in Gaza are living with depression, grief, and fear,

A huge increase in children who reported feeling fearful (84%),

80% of children feeling nervous,

77% feel sad or depressed

78% of children were grieving.

Three out of five children were self-harming

More than half struggled with suicidal thoughts and the trauma of witnessing the deaths of other children

More than half of Gazas children have contemplated suicide.

It is no wonder that the children of Gaza are suffering psychological issues when they fear losing their parents, families, and friends. Tragically, their fear is all too often becomes reality.

?? A child became a mother in an instant, after she lost her father, mother, and sister to an Israeli bombing in the Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/Oa1vR90KjF  Aeliya Haider (@aeliyahaider933) October 23, 2023

"She is my mom, I recognise her from her hair... I can't live without you mom" ?? The moment a Palestinian girl recognises her mom among the bodies killed by Israeli bombardment today. pic.twitter.com/fUKDzLjMfd  muslim daily (@muslimdaily_) October 22, 2023

???? A palestininan child lost her mother due to the IDF bombing. Wheres mama! pic.twitter.com/yn37JbIQxV  ??????? (@OopsGuess) October 21, 2023

Children Should Be Able to Play

Children should be able to play but the children in Gaza risk their lives, See X below.

Video shows the moment lsrael bombed a house in Deir al-Balah city, central Gaza Strip. pic.twitter.com/DHV2N2eJaf  Muhammad Smiry ?? (@MuhammadSmiry) October 23, 2023

?? Israel is a TERRORIST STATE https://t.co/A3ZKY2xjh7  Jackson Hinkle ?? (@jacksonhinklle) October 24, 2023

No doubt childrens psychological issues will have escalated due to this current terror-filled fortnight,

Particularly when they are now preparing for being potentially trapped beneath a building and rubble and now hundreds of children are lining up in hospitals to register their names on their hands or are marking their body parts with names, so they can be identified if they were to lose their lives (Source).

Watch how the brave children of #Gaza are having their names written in their forearms to identify in the event theyre killed by Israels carpet bombing campaign. Would Israel be happier if they were tattooed? pic.twitter.com/4S1cdYvvoC  Patrick Henningsen (@21WIRE) October 22, 2023

Be Silent When Kids Sleep, Not When They Are Being Killed.

Children are being murdered in Gaza the number who have died for political, totalitarian reasons and the greed of old men is, at the time of writing 2055, in words, Two Thousand and fifty-five, and no doubt that number is going to be higher later today even. However, they should not be thought of as mere numbers, ever.

It was terrifying. They killed my childhood and dreams. I dont have anything that makes me happy anymore. Child in Gaza

WARNING  Graphic and Upsetting Scenes

large parts of Gazas infrastructure, including critical water and sanitation systems, have been reduced to rubble in nearly two weeks of escalating violence which is Collective Punishment, and in itself against International Law, but breaking laws does not seem to be a concern of the perpetrators. Neither is it a concern of the abhorrent, cowardly complicit yellow-belly Western MPs. who are condoning the continuation of the barbaric war crimes and the killing of children for their own gain.

Thousands of children in Gaza now confirmed dead. But every major political leader in Western Europe and USA is opposed to a ceasefire. Barbarism. pic.twitter.com/vYjBqNicPB  Tory Fibs (@ToryFibs) October 24, 2023

While it may be argued again and again and again, Israel has a right to defend itself, but the terrorising, traumatising, and killing children and all other innocent civilians, cannot and should not be equated to defence.

UNICEF is calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and safe and timely access to humanitarian aid to children The killing & maiming of children, attacks on their hospitals & schools, & the denial of humanitarian access constitute grave child rights violations Humanity must prevail, they said

As Executive Director of UNICEF, Catherine Russell says, all parties must unconditionally protect every child from harm and afford them the special protection to which they are entitled, in accordance with obligations under international humanitarian law. However, there surely is an unspoken law among people that children deserve to be and feel protected unconditionally.

WORLD DOES NOT SUPPORT THE WAR ... Rather ,Peace in the World Support Humanity . #PeaceForAllWorld #Israel #Palestine pic.twitter.com/geTrtrhvT6  Jitender Chaudhary (@JituChaudhary25) October 23, 2023

Read more at: Expose-News.com
The toxic brew that is going to create endless chaos in the streets of America

Really bad policies lead to really bad consequences, and our leaders have been making absolutely disastrous decisions for decades. As a result, the streets of America are now teeming with thieves, drug addicts, prostitutes, violent criminals and sexual predators. We have raised an entire generation of young Americans that has no moral foundation whatsoever, and every day we are adding even more immigrants from third world countries to the mix. Many of those immigrants have no intention of following our laws, and they are fueling the explosive growth of criminal gangs all over the nation. On top of everything else, the war in the Middle East threatens to spark an unprecedented wave of domestic terror attacks here in the United States. Millions of radical Muslims now live in this country, and when the time comes many of them will not hesitate to commit acts of violence.

(Article republished from EndOfTheAmericanDream.com)

I have been writing about the social decay in our major cities for many years, but in all that time I have never come across a story quite like this one

We all know that San Francisco has a terrible, awful, horrible, homeless problem with homeless people sleeping everywhere. One homeless man set up camp across from a Catholic grade school. It would have been a curiosity except for the signs he hung outside of his tent. Free fentanyl 4 new users and Meth for stolen items. Joseph Adam Moore served six years for unlawful sex with a 12-year-old girl and was accused of having sex with a 15-year-old girl just a month after getting out of prison. But his probation deal did not include staying away from schools. So he camped directly across from Stella Maris Academy and began to host parties of stoners  much to the neighborhoods dismay.

WARNING: Explicit and potentially upsetting content A San Francisco man who camped across the street from a school displaying sign offering "free fentanyl for new users," and who has a previous pedophile conviction has been arrested. pic.twitter.com/gmzGcL3azr  The San Francisco Standard (@sfstandard) October 20, 2023

This young man checks almost all of the boxes.

He is a convicted felon, he is a drug addict, and he is a sexual predator.

And there are countless others just like him all over the country.

For example, the other day parents attacked a naked man inside a JCPenney store near Seattle after that naked man attempted to inappropriately touch their children

A shocking video shows a naked man being attacked by parents at a JCPenney store near Seattle after he allegedly attempted to inappropriately touch their children. The person recording the clip explains that theyre on the first floor of the kids department of the location, as the man is attempting to evade people chasing him wearing nothing but socks.

Hes like, holding the kid, the recorder claims, suggesting that the unidentified man was trying to touch two kids that he had with him in the store.

Good for those parents.

If I had been there, I would have gone after him too.

Unfortunately, our entire society is now descending into an abyss of sexual degradation.

Thanks to a new law that was recently signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom, the city of Los Angeles has essentially been transformed into a giant brothel at this point

Emboldened by new California laws that make it nearly impossible for cops to bust prostitutes, sex workers in Los Angeles red light district stalk for business wearing no more than thongs, G-strings and high heels in broad daylight. A 40-block area of Figueroa Boulevard in South LA sees hundreds of prostitutes, some barely out of their teens, plying their trade since Gov. Gavin Newsom passed the controversial Safer Streets for All Act, which decriminalized loitering with the intent to work as a prostitute in January. Before, this type of activity only happened at night where most citizens wouldnt see it, but now its 24/7, one source told The Post.

Needless to say, the enormous tsunami of migration that we have been experiencing during the Biden administration has greatly contributed to our social problems.

According to brand new numbers that have just been released, the number of migrants that our border patrol officers encountered during the month of September set a brand new all-time record high for a single month

United States Customs and Border Protection reported the final month of southwest border encounters for fiscal year 2023, revealing yet another record-setting month and year under the Biden administration. Official numbers totaled 269,735 encounters for September 2023, a new monthly record, which sets fiscal year 2023 at a record-setting 2,475,669. The yearly total eclipses 2022s record encounters by nearly 100,000, marking yet another terrible year for President Bidens border control.

How many others were able to enter this country successfully without being encountered by border patrol officers at all?

Protecting our borders is one of the very few things that the federal government is actually required to do, and under the leadership of Joe Biden the federal government is failing at that task spectacularly.

And now we are being warned that members of Hamas and Hezbollah may try to come over our southern border

The San Diego Field Office Intelligence Division of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has warned in a memo that members of terrorist groups  namely Hamas, Hezbollah, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ)  could be encountered at the porous southern border. The warning comes weeks after the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas attacked Israel, murdering 1,400 individuals and taking many more hostage on October 7. The Daily Caller News Foundation first obtained and shared the October 20 memo, which warned that individuals inspired by, or reacting to, the current Israel-Hamas conflict may attempt to travel to or from the area of hostilities in the Middle East via circuitous transit across the Southwest border.

I have a message for whoever wrote that memo.

Hezbollah is already here.

In fact, Hezbollah has been very active in North America for a long time.

Of course those that have ties to Hezbollah are just a small subset of the rapidly growing population of radical Muslims in this country.

And now that war has erupted in the Middle East, many of those radical Muslims are protesting in the streets. On Sunday, a pro-Hamas mob took over an entire section of the city of Minneapolis

A pro-Palestine mob on Sunday took over a street in Minneapolis, swarmed an elderly driver, chased after him, and harassed him. The mob blocked traffic for several hours on Hennepin Avenue near the Walker Art Center, according to Crime Watch Minneapolis. The militants surrounded an elderly man in a white sedan, beat on his car, and chased him down.

NEW: Pro-Palestine mob takes over the street and swarms an elderly driver in Minneapolis. After the driver made it through the initial mob of people, he was blocked at the next intersection by cars. The mob then chased after the man to harass him some more. Footage on the pic.twitter.com/YwuKLEdbNS  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) October 23, 2023

Once upon a time, Minneapolis was such a nice city.

But now those days are long gone.

Eventually, the radical Muslims may completely take over Minneapolis just like they have done in Dearborn, Michigan.

For a long time, I have been warning my readers that our immigration policies will lead to complete and utter madness in the streets of America.

Once the war in the Middle East really gets going, we are going to see things happen in this nation that many people thought that they would never see in their entire lifetimes.

But things didnt have to turn out this way.

If we would have protected our borders and would have implemented common sense immigration policies, much of the coming chaos in our streets could have been prevented.

Read more at: EndOfTheAmericanDream.com
Israels forced imprisonment of Palestinians in Gaza is an EXPERIMENT to test how globalists can enslave all of humanity

When the people who currently identify as Israelis first came to occupy the land now known as Israel back in 1948, they forced the people who were already living there for centuries, the Palestinians, into a tiny strip of walled-in land known as the Gaza Strip. Ever since that time, Israel's mistreatment of the Palestinians who live in Gaza has worsened to the point of becoming a horrific experiment in mass enslavement by a militant occupying force.

Ever since Gaza first came to be, Israel has been exploiting the Palestinian territory and its residents for its own devious purposes. Israel used Gaza to develop all sorts of new technologies and strategies for global enslavement, rendering it a type of testing ground or open-air concentration camp for human rights abuses.

Roughly 2.3 million people live in Gaza, which was besieged by Israel in 2007 following the election of Hamas to its government. It was then that Israel really ramped up its crimes against humanity, using the Palestinian people as human test subjects in all types of war crimes.

Then came the recent Hamas attack, which Israel was eager to use as an excuse to basically go in and gut the place entirely. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been salivating for years over the prospect of annexing Gaza, and this latest Hamas stunt seemingly provides the ammunition he needs to get what he wants.

"Even in 'quiet' times, its inhabitants  one million of them children  are denied the most basic freedoms, such as the right to movement; access to proper health care because medicines and equipment cannot be brought in; access to drinkable water; and the use of electricity for much of the day because Israel keeps bombing Gaza's power station," writes Jonathan Cook for Declassified UK about how Israel mistreats Gaza.

(Related: According to Israel, Palestinians are just "human animals" unworthy of basic life necessities.)

Israel's long legacy of serious crimes against humanity has been refashioned politically as the "right to defend itself"

In more recent years, the narrative against Gaza has gotten even more extreme to the point where Israeli politicians and their supporters around the world are now openly calling for mass genocide of the entire territory because Israel's existence is supposedly threatened by their presence.

What was once unthinkable and considered to absolutely constitute war crimes is now becoming the norm  and especially since 9/11 when the Israeli-occupied United States government launched the "war on terror," effectively bypassing the longtime rules of war that previously protected people like the Palestinians from heinous aggression.

"Israel has never made any bones of the fact that it is punishing the people of Gaza for being ruled by Hamas, which rejects Israel's right to have dispossessed the Palestinians of their homeland in 1948 and imprisoned them in overcrowded ghettos like Gaza," Cook explains.

"What Israel is doing to Gaza is the very definition of collective punishment. It is a war crime: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks of every year, for 16 years ... And yet no one in the so-called international community seems to have noticed."

Then came the calls of "antisemitism" against anyone who dares to call out Israel for its abhorrent mistreatment of its enemies. Somehow, Israel is the only country and people group in the world that is able to get away with such tactics, which are merely an excuse to justify Israeli supremacist acts on the world stage.

"The clear implication from politicians and the establishment media is that any support for Palestinian rights, any demurral from Israel's 'unquestionable right' to commit war crimes, equates to antisemitism," Cook notes.

Not everything is as it seems in the Middle East. Learn more at Prophecy.news.

Sources for this article include:

DeclassifiedUK.org

NaturalNews.com
ELKO  Historian, author and fifth generation Nevadan Jan Petersen is the grand marshal of the 36th annual Nevada Day Parade.

Petersen, who is the executive director of the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum, said its an honor to be grand marshal this year.

It was a huge surprise when parade organizer Jim Conner called to tell her, adding that for all the hard work Conner does to organize the parades each year, Jim needs to be the grand marshal.

Petersen has been involved in local history in several capacities over the years, working at the Northeastern Nevada Museum and the California Trail Interpretive Center before overseeing the Arts & Gear Museum that is housed in G.S. Garcias saddle workshop on Commercial Street.

She also served as the City of Elkos sexton and still manages the Elko County Cemetery and Tuscarora Cemetery.

Petersen has also co-authored three books, including Legacy of Silver and Saddles: G.S. Garcia to J.M. Capriola 1864-2004, with Paula Wright, DeeDee Garcia and Linda Harris; The Silver State Stampede: 100 Years of Rodeo History in Elko with Sue Abel; and the Ellison Ranching Company High Desert Empire 1910-2010 with Cyd McMullen.

And for the ninth year, she is leading the Ghost Tours, a walking tour of historic downtown Elko for the Halloween season.

Additionally, she was a news reporter for the now-defunct KENV television station, and during the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Petersen serves part-time as the Youth Activities Director.

Petersens interest in local history is rooted in her family, who were among Elkos first settlers in 1869, months after the town was established by the Central Pacific Railroad as a stop on the Transcontinental Railroad on Dec. 26, 1868.

Petersens grandfather, A.W. Hesson, arrived in Elko County in 1869. He lived and mined in Tuscarora and later owned a hardware store  the original building sits just a block away from the Arts & Gear Museum. Her father Bob Pearce was active in the community, helping establish the California Trail Interpretive Center.

Petersens grandmother was friends with Edna Patterson, whose best-known work, Nevadas Northeast Frontier, detailed the history of the families and ranchers that settled in Elko County during its formative years.

Grandma was always doing research for Edna and my dad was always interested in everything and he knew everything, Petersen said. I have deep Nevada roots.

The Pearce family were involved in the community in other aspects. Petersens mother Pat Pearce, who will turn 95 on Oct. 26, one day before the parade, was from Fallon and taught fourth and sixth grades at Northside Elementary for 32 years.

She also married a native Nevadan, Dennis Petersen, whose family roots also trace back to 1869. They have four children and nine grandchildren.

Both Pat Pearce and Dennis are joining Jan in the parade.

History keeps Petersen connected to the community and she said it allows her to show and teach the past to younger generations and visitors who stop by the Arts & Gear Museum.

I think its important to share these stories and show that we are looking into the future. We look at the past and show how the past rolls into the present and on into the future.

Through the Cowboy Arts & Gear Museum, Petersen said Garcias shop is a way to preserve the traditional arts such as hosting contests for horsehair braiding and bit and spur design during the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

This year, the upcoming bit contests cheekpiece is from the 1924 G.S. Garcia sales catalogue, a centennial homage to Garcias legacy.

With a deep knowledge of Elko Countys culture and history, she sees the connection among the areas two major industries  ranching and mining.

Because ranching and mining dually are what makes Elko, Elko. Theyre like a paired set. They go hand-in-hand and always have.

With her deep roots in Elko County, Petersen said it motivates her to contribute her knowledge and try new things.

When youre part of the community, you have to give back to the community, Petersen said. I firmly believe that and the longer I live, the more I believe that. You cant coast and complain about stuff. You have to stick your neck out once in a while and do something.

Being in the community also gives her the opportunity to share a story with others, mainly making history relatable to new generations.

When I worked at the Trail Center, I learned about interpretation and the trick of interpretation is making it relatable  the old to the now, she said. Whether youre telling a story of someone on the wagon trains, living on a ranch or preaching a sermon, you have to make it relatable to your audience.

I want to share those stories and to do that you have to keep those stories alive, she said. Some are entertaining, some have a moral to them, good, bad and ugly.
Newly-revealed messages show British bank staff GLOATED after debanking Nigel Farage

Bankers at British banking group NatWest have sent each other messages gloating about the closure of politician Nigel Farage's bank accounts

This is according to an investigation by British news outlet The Telegraph, which found internal messages from employees at NatWest, the parent company of British private bank Coutts which debanked Farage earlier this year for political reasons. (Related: Brexit leader Farage "debanked" for being friends with Trump and going against "WOKE" ideologies.)

Workers reacted to the politician's debanking by messaging each other disparaging statements regarding Farage, including "Hope that knocked him down a peg or 2," describing him as an "awful human being," "sketchy" and "vile" and going so far as to suggest without evidence that Farage had "dodgy Russian connections" and was involved in fraud.

"The only reason other banks wouldn't take him is if he's under investigation for fraud," claimed one NatWest staffer in response to news that Farage was being turned away by other British banks.

"He has dodgy Russian connections and money flowing in from questionable sources," claimed another staffer in reply.

"The money I'd have paid to have been the agent ringing him to tell him [that he had been debanked]," wrote one other staffer.

Furthermore, on the same day that Farage was debanked, one employee called him a "crackpot" and sent five "crying with laughter" emojis in response to the news. This employee added: "Mr. Nobody now he has completed Brexit."

Another employee added that he wanted to "throw a milkshake at him" if he were approached to open a new account for Farage.

In one message exchange, two people celebrated how NatWest's debanking of Farage may have forced him to leave the United Kingdom. This is in response to Farage stating that he was considering his options ever since his debanking made Britain "completely unliveable."

"I've been considering over the course of the day, my options, I've spent time talking to lawyers, I've been considering legal action. I've been asking myself whether frankly, it's even worth staying in this country," he said at the time.

"Have you all seen Nigel Farage's Twitter? Have we single-handedly driven [Farage] out of the country?" said one NatWest employee.

"No one will bank him now," responded another.

Farage calls comments by NatWest employees "vile" and "prejudicial"

Responding to the unearthed messages from NatWest staffers, Farage blamed the "vile" and "prejudicial" comments made by NatWest employees on "the culture imposed upon NatWest" by former CEO Alison Rose.

"It is clear that the decision to debank me wasn't taken just by the subdivision Coutts but went right up to the very top management team in the NatWest group," said Farage. "I find it wholly unacceptable that Alison Rose should be able to walk away from this fiasco with 11 million pounds [$13.3 million] given that the British taxpayer owns nearly 40 percent of the NatWest group."

Farage is referring to the "golden parachute" offered to Rose, who resigned following the scandal of his debanking.

A spokesperson for NatWest said in a statement that the bank has already reached out to Farage to apologize "for the deeply inappropriate comments made about him and the poor behaviors displayed."

Watch this episode of "World Alternative Media" as host Josh Sigurdson warns about the rising trend of banks unilaterally closing the accounts of customers they disagree with.

This video is from the World Alternative Media channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

NatWest bank issues further debanking measures with new cash limits, prompting criticism from debanked Nigel Farage.

DEBANKING SPREE: U.K. banks are closing more than 1,000 accounts a day with little explanation.

British banks are now closing the accounts of clients they don't politically agree with.

Woke NatWest CEO resigns amid allegations of steering Coutts' diversity drive and scandalously debanking Nigel Farage.

DEBANKING: Brexit leader warns CBDCs will bring tyranny after his longtime bank closed his account,

Sources include:

Breitbart.com

Telegraph.co.uk

Euronews.com

Brighteon.com
Michael Yon: Chinese Communist Party an ULTRA-RACIST cult seeking to RULE THE WORLD

Combat correspondent Michael Yon described the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) as an ultra-racist cult that seeks to rule the world during his Oct. 20 appearance on the "PostScript" podcast hosted by John L. Petersen.

Yon, a veteran writer and photographer, said the CCP believes that every person with Chinese genes falls under its dominion. These include Cantonese-speaking Chinese individuals who have lived in other countries for a long time and have never been to the mainland.

"The CCP claims, 'Hey, you're our blood; you fall under our law.' [It's] the same thing all over the world  Chinese communities, people who will never go to China, their grandparents who never went to China," he said. "But the CCP claims that even though they're [multiple] generations out of China, they're [still] part of China. Where does this go?"

Yon also noted the absurd claim that the Native Americans were actually Chinese.

"They are actually Chinese migrants," he recounted. "So [the CCP's] claim is that all of North and South America are all Chinese. They are all basically Chinese migrants, and we sold their land. You can see where they're going with that. So that's one ecosystem."

Yon recounted that prior to his expulsion from Hong Kong for reporting the truth there, the Cantonese-speaking Hong Kongers called the CCP and the Han Chinese who spoke Mandarin as "Chinazis." Petersen asked the origin of the term, and Yon answered that the industry and government have taken fascism and blended a racial component taken from Nazism  the "master race."

Yon: CCP "Chinazis" working with the globalist World Economic Forum

According to the investigative journalist, the CCP is now working with the globalist World Economic Forum (WEF) led by its founder Klaus Schwab. "They work in collusion very tightly with the WEF, which obviously is making a go out of this," he told Petersen. (Related: World Economic Forum globalist Klaus Schwab praises Chinas authoritarian regime as role model for world.)

"Well, eventually these two will fight  because remember, the CCP is ultra-racist. These are both sophisticated players and they are both shrewd. This is ISIS and Al-Qaeda cooperating, and so eventually they will kill each other after they come for us  and that's clear."

Yon also mentioned that both the CCP and the WEF are heading to Panama, a vital terrain when it comes to global trade given the presence of the Panama Canal. According to him, the Panamanian government aims to build a bridge to extend the Pan-American Highway, connecting Panama to South America and allowing access to the Darien Gap.

"That's why they call it the Darien Gap. It's a gap because there's no roads for about 60 miles. But both sides are working to connect that  and when they do, that's another pork chop around their neck."

Yon also pointed out there is a clear rearrangement of global powers, with the "elephants" or powerful nations fighting and a lot of "ants" or small nations getting flattened. He predicted that people will probably see a war happening in South America based on blood hate, religion, resources and borders.

Follow CommunistChina.news for more news about the CCP.

Watch the full conversation between Michael Yon and John Petersen below.

This video is from the ArlingtonInstitute channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

INFILTRATION ALERT: CCP-linked media company running influence campaigns across US news websites.

Klaus Schwab praised CCP for imposing harsh COVID control measures on citizens.

CCP TAKEOVER: Real estate mogul sold over 130,000 acres of Texas farmland to a Chinese billionaire and former PLA captain.

Journey to the West: Thousands of Chinese showing up at US-Mexico border to escape Communist rule.

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

MichaelYon.com
Despite providing limitless military aid and unconditional support to Israel, U.S. admits it has NO PLAN for what comes next

In no uncertain terms, fake president Joe Biden is assuring Israel that the United States has its back no matter the outcome of its ground invasion into Gaza, recognizing full well that Israel

People familiar with the matter say the White House is fearful that Israel is getting in over its head, urging the nation to think beyond just the immediate goal of clearing out Gaza and annexing it as new Israeli territory.

Biden's team has apparently voiced anxiety about Israel's demand that the more than one million residents of northern Gaza evacuate in 24 hours, a deadline that both the European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) say is impossible.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby expressed much the same, stating that Israel's evacuation order for Gaza is "a tall order."

"The desire to support Israel versus the fear about what might come next underscores the delicate balancing act Biden faces," Bloomberg reports.

"A punishing campaign in Gaza and no clear endpoint risks fanning Israel's worst crisis in 50 years in to a regional conflagration the U.S. and its allies would struggle to contain."

(Related: The eagerness of Israel to slaughter Palestinians is disturbingly palpable.)

Oh well, we must still support Israel no matter what, Biden says

Apparently hung up on that out-of-context "I will bless those who bless you, and curse those who curse you" verse, Biden and his regime say they will still support Israel regardless of how it proceeds.

Since Israeli officials are calling the recent Hamas attack their own 9/11  complete with stand-down orders as well  the show must go on.

According to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, all 2.3 million residents of Gaza are either terrorists or harboring terrorists, which is why Israel has to take back Gaza, he insists.

"They could have fought against that evil regime which took over Gaza in a coup d'etat," Herzog stated publicly about the only way innocent Palestinians could have vindicated themselves, in his opinion.

Already, more Palestinians, around 1,500, have been killed by Israel since the Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis.

Biden aides have made it a point to avoid questioning Israel in any way concerning its bloodlust for immediate, full-scale war. Still, they worry that Israel could be making a seriously grave error that will result in global consequences.

On Friday, Biden himself urged Israel not to "lose sight of the fact that the overwhelming majority of Palestinians had nothing to do with Hamas," which on this matter he is actually correct.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, meanwhile, is touring the Middle East in an attempt to keep the Israeli war against Palestine from spreading. Like Biden, Blinken is urging Israel to behave more cautiously to ensure the violence does not spread.

"They need a strategic plan for Gaza and it's obvious that the plan that they've been executing, essentially over the last several years, hasn't worked," commented Seth Moulton, a Massachusetts Democrat and member of the House Armed Services Committee who served four tours as a marine in Iraq.

What Israel needs, Moulton went on to say, is a "long-term strategy for Gaza that will be more effective than whatever they've been doing for the last 15 years."

If Israel does proceed with its planned ground invasion, which it is now claiming may end up being a surprise attack through other means, then Hezbollah up to the north says it is ready to act against Israel with the support and sponsorship of Iran.

The latest news about the escalating conflict in the Middle East can be found at WWIII.news.

Sources for this article include:

Bloomberg.com

NaturalNews.com
Proven ADULTERATION of COVID jabs means Americans can now SUE vaccine manufacturers  and FDA is REQUIRED to take action by pulling them from market

Investigative journalist Steve Kirsch spoke with Prof. Byram Bridle and Dr. Robert Malone recently about the contamination issue with Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) "vaccines" and what it means for the general public that was harmed by them.

Contrary to popular belief, it is actually now possible to sue the pharmaceutical companies responsible for these adulterated injections, the mRNA varieties of which were found to contain plasmid bioactive contaminant sequences that were never revealed to regulatory authorities prior to their emergency use authorization (EUA) and later approval.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was never told by Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna that their respective messenger RNA shots are contaminated with these foreign, toxic substances. As such, anyone can now sue these vaccine manufacturers  and according to the law, the FDA must respond by pulling these deadly drugs off the market.

According to Kirsch, the Michigan remdesivir case sets an important precedent for all this in that it has shown that the liability shield afforded by Big Pharma disintegrates the moment any undisclosed contamination of the jabs' active ingredients is proven.

"The FDA is now at a crossroads," Kirsch says. "Either they admit that they knew about the plasma contamination, and failed to disclose that to the public and to the outside committees, or they can claim that they didn't know about it in which case Pfizer is liable."

"But we have the Pfizer documents that were given to the FDA so we know what the FDA got. And I seriously doubt there's any disclosure of SV40 contamination. That means we have an adulterated vaccine and the FDA has to remove it from the market until the adulteration is fixed. If the FDA doesn't do that, they should face criminal prosecution for endangering the public, and not following the law."

(Related: Did you catch the new study showing that COVID jabs did not save any lives  they took millions of lives, though.)

All Americans who got jabbed for COVID can now sue Big Pharma for damages due to contamination

To make a long story short, there is no more drug company immunity the moment contamination in a drug product, injection or otherwise, is identified  "Otherwise, they can add arsenic into the vaccines and not be liable," Kirsch notes.

In Kirsch's assessment of the situation, all COVID injection vials are contaminated with ingredients that were never disclosed to the FDA. Because of this, Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna have a very big problem on their hands that, Lord willing, will lead to their downfall.

Kirsch says he contacted attorney Warner Mendenhall about the matter, who confirmed that Kirsch's assessment of the litigatory nature of these revelations is indeed valid  "and the litigation floodgates are now open."

Those who are interested in pursuing their own lawsuits against Big Pharma can check out this list of 90 lawyers that Kirsch compiled in order to make the process simpler for the public.

"The SV40 promoter is found in all the vials and it was in the gene sequence that was provided to the regulators," Kirsch stresses about the seriousness of the COVID jab contamination that has been discovered. "There is no mistake."

"The problem was that neither drug company ever pointed it out to the regulators. It's an unapproved contaminant that doesn't meet the standards set. So the regulators are off the hook. But if the regulators don't take action, then they dig themselves into a very deep hole. The law requires the FDA to stop the vaccine."

More related news coverage about Operation Warp Speed and the ongoing COVID jab genocide can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

TheReaderApp.com

WWMT.com

NaturalNews.com

AirTable.com
CDC warning: Cases of flesh-eating LEISHMANIASIS, which could be entering the U.S. via imported dogs, are on the rise

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that cases of leishmaniasis are growing in the United States , even affecting people who have not traveled to Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East, where this parasitic disease is endemic and more prevalent.

Infected dogs imported from the aforementioned tropical regions are believed to be the carriers of the disease, which can then be transmitted to humans. Many of the 86 identified cases of the milder form of leishmaniasis were found in Texas, while others were detected in Arizona, Florida and Oklahoma.

Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a single-celled protozoan (parasite) from the genus Leishmania. Dogs and humans can get this disease if they are bitten by a blood-sucking sandfly carrying the Leishmania infantum parasite.

When a female phlebotomine sandfly bites an infected reservoir host, it also sucks in the parasite, which continues to multiply inside the insect. It can then transmit the parasite to another reservoir (animal or human) during its next blood meal.

Canine leishmaniasis is widespread in more than 70 countries but is most common in Mediterranean areas as the Leishmania parasite thrives in warm climates. The period in which leishmaniasis risk is the highest is from the months of April to October.

Sandflies hide during daytime and come out late in the afternoon, becoming very active from dusk until dawn.

Many dogs manage to lead almost normal lives even if the Leishmania parasite stays with them for many years.

Types of leishmaniasis

Experts believe there are about 20 different Leishmania species that can spread the infection to humans in three forms: cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most common form of the disease. One of the "most neglected tropical diseases," it causes acne- or freckle-like lesions (primary) or skin sores and ulcers (secondary lesions) on exposed parts of the body.

The skin lesions could take weeks or months to appear after being bitten by an infected sandfly. Some lesions may eventually heal on their own after months or years, according to the CDC.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis can leave life-long scars and can lead to issues relating to depression and social stigma, says parasitologist David Molyneux of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine in England.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), about 95 percent of cutaneous leishmaniasis cases occur in the Americas, Central Asia, the Mediterranean basin and the Middle East. However, only about 200,000 cases out of an estimated 600,000 to a million are reported.

Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis is a rare form of the disease that affects the nose and mouth and could lead to partial or total damage to the mucous membranes. It is more serious than cutaneous leishmaniasis because it does not heal on its own and always requires treatment.

Visceral leishmaniasis, also known as kala-azar, is the most severe and progressive form of the disease because it is almost always fatal if left untreated. Symptoms of this disease include anemia, enlargement of the liver and spleen, irregular bouts of fever and weight loss.

The WHO estimates that about 50,000 to 90,000 cases of visceral leishmaniasis occur worldwide annually. This estimate only includes about 25 to 45 percent of cases that have been reported to the organization. Visceral leishmaniasis has a high outbreak and mortality potential.

Preventive and control measures

Leishmania can only be transmitted to humans through the bite of a female phlebotomine sandfly that has previously bitten an infected mammal. Avoiding the bite of this insect is the best way to prevent leishmaniasis in dogs and humans.

Focus your infection control measures on preventing contact with the insect vector  either through physical barriers, chemical barriers or handling. (Related: Parasitic disease in dogs can be treated with natural products containing vitamin C.)

Cover exposed skin, where possible, or use natural insect repellent on exposed skin. Bugs sprays infused with plant oils (organic essential oils) are the best and safest tools for repelling sandflies and other bugs for hours. Look for bug sprays formulated with citronella, lemongrass and lemon eucalyptus oil.

Avoid outdoor activities after dusk, when possible, and bring your dog home before dusk when the phlebotomines are particularly active.

Eliminate the phlebotomines in your home. Install durable insect screen protection on your doors, kennels, porches and windows and ensure that these are made with ultra-tight weave material that will protect you, your family and your pets against the smallest types of bugs. Use fans or ventilators to disrupt the movement of sandflies as they are weak fliers. Use interior diffusers for your organic essential oils to help repel disease-carrying vectors.

Practice good hygiene habits, such as frequent thorough handwashing, keeping nails clean and trimmed, regular bathing, etc.

Keep your surroundings clean.

Consult with a veterinarian on how best to protect your dog from sandflies and leishmaniasis.

Visit Outbreak.news for more stories like this.

Watch the following video to learn more about leishmaniasis.

This is from the Daily Videos channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Neglected tropical diseases are getting neglected even more because of coronavirus.

Protect yourself against risk of early death: Get a dog.

Pet dogs go out of their way to comfort humans they sense are sick or depressed.

Sources include:

GreenMatters.com

ParasitesAndVectors.BioMedCentral.com

ScientificAmerican.com

WHO.int

Virbac.com

Brighteon.com
China is using the Israel-Palestine conflict to sideline the U.S. on the international stage

China is using the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant groups in Gaza to fuel opposition to the United States

This is according to social scientist Steven W. Mosher, who warned that China is "stoking a new Cold War with the West" through its support of terrorist groups, rogue regimes and other militant organizations around the world. (Related: Pentagon warns China now has over 500 operational nuclear warheads as it seeks nuclear parity with the U.S.)

"China behind the scenes has been lighting fires everywhere in the world," warned Mosher during an interview with Brannon Howse on "WorldView Report."

"Xi Jinping is the dictator of China, and he's a great admirer of Chairman Mao [Zedong], who once said 'Great chaos is needed to achieve great order in the world,' he continued. "And the great chaos is well underway because we have war in Ukraine, we have a looming war in the Middle East, we have North Korea threatening South Korea, we have Serbia moving troops to its border with Kosovo, so the Balkans may explode again."

Mosher added in an opinion piece written for the New York Post that China has also been supporting the dictator Bashar Al-Assad in Syria and the brutal military junta of Myanmar.

China painting itself as a Muslim-friendly alternative to America

Following the outbreak of renewed hostilities between Israel and Gaza, Beijing's initial statement on the matter failed to condemn Hamas for its surprise terrorist attack on Israel. Analysts writing for Politico note that this initial response is likely part of "a long-term play" to gain favor among Middle Eastern nations to portray itself as sympathetic to the plight of Palestinians.

This puts Beijing in opposition to the United States and its defense of Israel as well as paints itself as a strong alternative partner to Washington for nations not just in the Middle East but also in Africa and Latin America.

China's opposition to Israel has been so strong that the Israeli Ambassador to China had to tell Beijing to stop supporting Hamas and to stop acting with hostility toward Israel.

More recently, China has lashed out at the U.S. after its representative to the United Nations vetoed a Security Council resolution that would have called for "humanitarian pauses" to the conflict to deliver lifesaving aid to the two million trapped civilians in Gaza.

Chinese state media outlets have also used the conflict to continue painting the U.S. as a regional villain plotting crises all over the Middle East "behind the scenes," and hinting that closer ties with China could play a role in gaining long-term stability for the region.

But Jonathan Fulton, an expert at the Atlantic Council on China's increasing influence over Middle Eastern affairs, notes that Beijing is likely using this as an opportunity to win support in the Arab and Islamic world for its own priorities, including asserting its right to take over Taiwan and rejecting U.S. allegations that China is committing genocide against Uyghur Muslims.

Furthermore, Fulton noted that Beijing is definitely interested in keeping the U.S. focused on Middle Eastern affairs as it keeps Washington's limited resources away from its own sphere of influence in Asia.

"Obviously for China, it is better if the U.S. is bogged down in the Middle East and the Gulf," said Fulton. "But if the U.S. keeps providing the security architecture that maintains the Middle East, China is not going to have to do heavy lifting on its own."

Watch this clip from the "WorldView Report" with host Brannon Howse interviewing Steven W. Mosher about how China is brewing proxy conflicts around the world to divert more and more crucial American military resources.

This video is from the WorldView Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Thousands of Chinese nationals TRAPPED in Israel have been left by Beijing to find their own way back home.

KNIFE ATTACKS reported in France and China after Hamas called for Oct. 13 to be a global "day of rage."

Israel-Hamas conflict could escalate into World War III very quickly as Pentagon readies troops for deployment to the Middle East.

World War 3 could be imminent as Israel-Hamas war escalates, experts warn.

U.S. accuses China of pouring BILLIONS of dollars into GLOBAL DISINFO campaign (while the U.S. government spews endless lies about everything).

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

NYPost.com

Politico.com

ChannelNewsAsia.com

News.UN.org
Coca-Cola CUTS TIES with Black Lives Matter over activist groups support of Hamas

The Coca-Cola Company has cut ties with the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement over the latter's support of the Hamas terrorist group that attacked Israel.

The second-biggest soft drink corporation quietly removed references to its previous support toward BLM on its website. Prior to the move, Coca-Cola's website discussed its philanthropic efforts alongside the activist group.

The highlight of the page touched on its $500,000 donation to BLM  made through the Sprite clear lemon beverage brand  in support of its "voting education efforts" and its "February 2021 Black Future Month program." References to this donation, alongside other items that mentioned BLM, were struck off the site. The current version of Coca-Cola's website only states how it started a "Give Back" program to fight "racial injustice."

"We're in this for the long haul," brand lead Aaliyah Shafiq noted on the website. "Lasting change will not happen overnight, so we're committed to continuing to amplify the voices and efforts of our community; to listen and learn; and to actively help create a better shared future for America."

Coca-Cola's stealthy edit did not go unnoticed. Several users took to social media to rebuke the company for its stealthy revision, stressing how it did so with nary an apology or clarification.

Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) posted on the X platform (formerly Twitter) that the soft drink giant had been "caught red-handed" with the change. "Editing your website is not enough," he wrote. "Americans demand an apology."

The fiasco arose from an Oct. 10 post by BLM's Chicago chapter that showed a silhouette of a paraglider with the text "I stand with Palestine." The image posted on X, which was later deleted, referenced how Hamas terrorists used paragliders to infiltrate a music festival in Israel on Oct. 7. The operatives killed more than 1,000 soldiers and civilians, prompting Israel to launch a military offensive against the group that controls the Gaza Strip.

Gonzalez: BLM's support of Hamas lines up with its goals

BLM Chicago said in an Oct. 11 statement amid backlash to its post: "Yesterday, we sent out [messages] that we aren't proud of. We stand with Palestine and the people who will do what they must to live free. Our hearts are with the grieving mothers, those rescuing babies from the rubble [and those] who are in danger of being wiped out completely." (Related: BLM tweeted, deleted, then DOUBLED DOWN on calling Hamas attack "a desperate act of self-defense.")

But the statement failed to mollify users, with author and former speechwriter Aviva Klompas rebuking BLM for "unapologetically standing with butchers and rapists." Republican commentator Robby Starbuck also shared the same sentiment, writing on X: "BLM Chicago, like many leftists, comes out in support of slaughtering innocent people they don't like."

The points brought up by Klompas and Starbucks make sense, according to Mike Gonzalez of the Washington, D.C-based think tank Heritage Foundation (HF). He outlined in an Oct. 20 piece that BLM's backing of the terrorist Hamas perfectly lines up with the movement's goals.

According to Gonzalez, a senior fellow at HF, "embracing the vilest form of terrorism as a means of destroying Israel is a feature  not a bug  of revolutionary 'decolonization.'" He added that for BLM and its affiliates, Israel must be destroyed "because it is a White settler [and] White supremacist state."

The senior fellow also emphasized how "'decolonization'  a mantra of the movement  is to be carried out 'by any means necessary.' It means that decolonization must be carried out with rape and carnage. Bloodlust is purifying; to fanatics, Hamas' butchery of civilians is an integral part of (the) revolution."

Gonzalez also pointed out that the endorsement of Hamas' atrocities came from chapters that are "the leading ideological voices of BLM." This runs contrary to claims from the Anti-Defamation League and others that the support for Hamas comes from "fringe chapters that have gone rogue and are not controlled by the national organization."

Visit BlackLiesMatter.news for more stories about BLM's support of Hamas and its terrorism.

Watch Glenn Beck talking about BLM's support of Hamas in the clip below.

This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

BLM received almost $83B from corporations, report says  but where's the money?

Apple, Google, Amazon, Walmart back BLM cause with multi-million dollar donations.

Black Lives Matter given $16 million in taxpayer-funded grants to continue hating Whites.

Woke corporations shamed into donating eye-watering $83 BILLION to Black Lives Matter.

BLM now trying to shake down nation for cash, demanding "direct cash payments" from government or cities will burn.

Sources include:

100PercentFedUp.com

MSN.com

Heritage.org

Brighteon.com
Forensic accounting expert: HALF of pandemic relief funds ended up in the hands of Americas ENEMIES

A whistleblower has disclosed that roughly 50 percent of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic relief funds ended up in the hands of America's enemies such as Russia and China.

Forensic accounting expert Linda Miller dropped this bombshell when she testified before members of Congress on Oct. 19. She read in a prepared testimony during the House Ways and Means Committee's Oversight Subcommittee hearing that up to half of pandemic relief fund money was stolen by U.S. adversaries.

"Data on this is still being evaluated, but there are some estimates that half of the pandemic unemployment assistance [money obtained through] fraud went to adversarial nations," she stated. "Agencies were unprepared for the fraud they encountered largely due to a lack of attention to fraud risks."

"The nearly $5 trillion in government relief spending during the COVID-19 pandemic  much of which was disbursed as direct payments to citizens  created the perfect storm for fraud. A combination of inadequate oversight and internal controls, large-scale organized fraud rings and antiquated data and information systems contributed to the massive, widespread fraud we saw during the pandemic." (Related: Government watchdog: Over $60B lost to pandemic unemployment benefits fraud.)

Miller's comments came in reply to the question of Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) regarding a group of hackers with links to the Chinese government that were prosecuted for stealing an estimated $20 million in relief funds. The whistleblower is no stranger to fraud investigations, having served as the former deputy executive director of the Department of Justice's (DOJ) Pandemic Response Accountability Committee and the former assistant director of the Government Accountability Office's (GAO) Forensic Audits and Investigative Service (FAIS).

Rep. David Schweikert (R-AZ), chairman of the Oversight Subcommittee, said his team "has been tracking some crazy stories of [pandemic relief] unemployment insurance fraud that was converted to gift cards that were moved into buying cars." The vehicles "were shipped over to Africa as a way to wash the money." Schweikert also disclosed that his subcommittee found evidence of foreign entities using U.S. pandemic relief money to support violent activities overseas.

Other witnesses attest to misuse of money for pandemic benefits

Rebecca Shea, GAO director of audits for FAIS, also testified during the Oct. 19 hearing. She said her office has found "some information about foreign actors exploiting the various pandemic relief programs."

According to Shea, federal program managers who are directly responsible for identifying and stopping fraud were concentrated almost completely on getting benefits processed and in the hands of beneficiaries. This occurred despite numerous federal laws and regulations requiring federal workers to take measures to stop tax dollars from going to ineligible recipients.

"Federal agencies did not strategically manage fraud risks and were not adequately prepared to prevent fraud when the pandemic began. We recognize that eliminating all fraud and fraud risk is not a realistic goal," she told members of Congress.

"However, a variety of resources and requirements for fraud risk management were in place well before the pandemic. Had agencies already been strategically managing their fraud risks, they would have been better positioned to identify and respond to the heightened risks that emerged during the pandemic."

Amy Simon of the Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration also testified, telling lawmakers that officials still do not know the full extent of pandemic benefit fraud. "The scale of improper spending and outright fraud is only now coming into clearer focus," she said.

Simon also told Rep. Greg Steube (R-FL) that pandemic fraud serves two purposes  a vertical for several criminal organizations, as well as an income source. The Labor Department official mentioned a recent DOJ indictment in Michigan of a sprawling scheme funded by various kinds of pandemic fraud. The scheme, run by serious organized crime rings, even had murder-for-hire as one of its services.

Follow Corruption.news for more news about COVID-19 pandemic relief fund fraud.

Watch the video below about how COVID unemployment money was misspent due to fraud.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Former CT Dem state rep pleads guilty to STEALING pandemic relief funds.

Government watchdog flags potentially fraudulent pandemic loans amounting to $5.4B.

New report reveals how $200B in COVID-19 relief aid was STOLEN.

Sources include:

Revolver.news

TheEpochTimes.com

Brighteon.com
In a case described as having "profound implications for almost every aspect of American life," the highest court in the land will examine the restrictions placed on the White House's interactions with tech companies.

The Supreme Court's decision, made on October 20, also temporarily suspended the limitations imposed by the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana Monroe Division, which had originally granted the injunction on July 4.

The injunction extended to various government entities, including the White House, the surgeon general, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and, following an October 3 ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.

These agencies were prohibited from communicating with social media companies regarding the topic of "misinformation."

The lawsuit, originally brought in May 2022 by the attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana, alleges that Biden officials violated the First Amendment by working with social media platforms to suppress content related to Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19), election integrity and the Hunter Biden laptop scandal.

Dissenting justices slam government censorship

The recent Supreme Court ruling means that the stay preventing the injunction from being enforced will remain in place until a final decision is reached, which could take until the end of the current term in June 2024.

While the Supreme Court will not address the full lawsuit but only the preliminary injunction as amended by the 5th Circuit, the decision will likely impact similar cases. The dissenting justices, Samuel Alito, Neil Gorsuch and Clarence Thomas, issued a strong defense of free speech rights and opposition to government censorship of private speech.

"At this time in the history of our country, what the court has done, I fear, will be seen by some as giving the government a green light to use heavy-handed tactics to skew the presentation of views on the medium that increasingly dominates the dissemination of news. That is most unfortunate," said Alito

Legal experts suggest that the Supreme Court's decision will provide detailed guidance on how the First Amendment applies to situations where the government coerces or encourages social media companies to censor specific viewpoints. (Related: Facebook Files show more government collusion to destroy the First Amendment.)

The lawsuit contends that the Biden administration engaged in a coordinated campaign to stifle certain opinions on social media platforms.

The decision could have significant implications for national security concerns related to false information online, especially concerning ongoing international conflicts and future elections. The Supreme Court will likely examine whether the government overstepped its bounds by pressuring social media platforms to engage in censorship, while the government argues it was defending its policies.

Although the injunction preventing communication with social media platforms is paused, legal experts believe that the government may moderate its suppression efforts to reduce the "paper trail" of censorship.

Still, this case underscores the ongoing debate over the role of social media companies in shaping public discourse and the government's influence on these platforms.

The Supreme Court's forthcoming decision will also have implications for related cases, including those involving state laws that regulate social media platforms. Legal experts emphasize the significance of this case for free speech and its potential to set national precedents and guidance for future cases in the realm of social media free speech. The Supreme Court's decision, expected in late spring 2024, will undoubtedly impact the lives of millions of people worldwide.

Watch this clip about the DOJ declaring war on the First Amendment.
Israeli officials upset over freed hostages interview slamming government failures

When 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz, one of just four hostages to be released by Hamas terrorists so far, spoke to the media, her descriptions of the horrors she experienced were widely expected. However, her characterization of her captors as being kind to her and her criticism of the Israeli government took many people by surprise and have left officials scrambling to deal with the public relations damage

Sources have told the state-owned Kan News in Israel that the interview with Lifshitz was a mistake and that they believed there were no preliminary meetings preparing her for the interview. It is being widely regarded as a major public relations failure for the Israelis and a significant propaganda victory for Hamas.

The interview was broadcast from the Ichilov Hospital in Tel Aviv, where Lifshitz is recovering from her ordeal. She described how militants took her from her home in the Nir Oz kibbutz. She said the motorcycle drive to Gaza was painful and that she was beaten with sticks on the trip so badly that she sustained bruises and had breathing troubles. After being separated from other hostages, including her husband, she was led through a spiderweb network of underground tunnels, where she slept on a mattress on the damp floor. I went through hell, she said.

However, she added that she was treated gently by her captors, who gave her and other hostages one meal per day of pita bread, cucumbers and cheese and made sure they received the same medications they normally took at home. They were visited regularly by doctors, and she reported that her captors had been friendly with her. She added that they took care of their hygiene and other needs.

She went on to condemn the Israeli armys failure to prepare for the attack despite spending millions on security systems that failed to stop the terrorists. A swarm of people came to the fence  it cost NIS 2 billion ($493 million) and it didnt help, not even a little bit, she said.

She singled out Shin Bet and the IDF for their lack of knowledge of the plans, adding: "We were the government's scapegoat, we were abandoned. We went through hell."

She said there were plenty of signs before the attacks, such as balloons sent across the border to set fields on fire, but the IDF did not take it seriously.

Lifshitzs family said that she had worked in the past to help Palestinians in Gaza receive medical aid, and she was seen shaking hands with the Hamas fighter who handed her over to the Red Cross when she was released.

A propaganda win for Hamas

Former FBI special agent Ken Grey told CNN that Lipshitzs comments about her treatment could be part of a Hamas PR strategy.

He said: They want to project the information that they are treating the hostages very well  using this as a method of being able to show themselves of being humane, treating the hostages well. And then it will make the IDF look even worse when they actually enter into the Gaza.

Experts have said it is possible that Lifshitz and the other hostage released with her were threatened by Hamas, who still has their husbands in their custody. They may have been told their husbands would suffer a particularly grisly death if they did not give a glowing review of their time as hostages.

Lifshitzs husband was involved in campaigning for Palestinian rights and speaks good Arabic, so the family is holding out hope that he is faring well. Their daughter said they dont know how other hostages were being treated because her mother did not see them.

A reporter for Israel's Channel 12, Daphna Liel, tweeted: Theres no doubt that Lifshitzs statement could have been managed better.

Anyone sane should understand that medical attention she was given [by Hamas] was intended to keep their bargaining chips alive and not from the kindness of their hearts, she added.

Despite her claim that she was treated well, Lifshitz nevertheless went through a horrific ordeal at the hands of terrorists, and it is not surprising that she would blame the Israeli government for what happened to her and numerous others. Its a view that is shared by so many other Israelis, and more will certainly come to light in the weeks and months ahead about the reasons behind this failure.

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

TimesOfIsrael.com

CNN.com
Killers of the Flower Moon is not a typical murder mystery. It is a story of what happens when greed and sin overcome hearts, and how it impacts bystanders. And of the interwoven complexities that unfold when atrocities are perpetrated and covered up.

The indigenous Oklahoma land of the Osage people sits upon a wealth of oil, which explodes out of the ground in energetic brown geysers. Overcome by greed for oil money, settlers inject evil into the Osage world by killing innocent women from the tribe.

In Martin Scorseses 2023 true crime epic Killers of the Flower Moon, Ernest Burkhart, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio, finds himself thrown into a world of sharp political nuance. Ernest is a man broken by regret, which comes to scathing life in DiCaprios authentic performance.

The Osage only allow certain people to draw from their oil resources, but the greedy settlers decide to go to any length to undermine and wreck this peaceful way of life  leading to a criminal investigation that only leads to dead ends at first because oil industry corruption looms so large.

This blanket is a target on our back, Ernest Burkharts Osage wife, Mollie Burkhart, says at one point in the movie. She has become painfully aware that her ethnic identity is a source of danger. In a moving lead actor turnout from Lily Gladstone, Mollie Burkhart acts as the films emotional center.

Throughout the film, indigenous heritage and a web of murderous sins unfold on pastoral prairie scenery. The scale of the production is grand, with a charming Oklahoma downtown, sun-dappled marshes, and flower-covered fields dotted with a forest of oil towers. The viewer is placed right in the midst of the explosive oil mining world.

Expect details such as a dynamic score that combines American folk music with indigenous drumming, as well as multimedia storytelling that adds in black and white footage and radio play-acting. Expect storytelling that accurately conveys the environment of the time but also draws the viewer in  an ideal balance for a history movie. This is a movie that presents Americas past mistakes as a chilling reality from which viewers can learn.

Thanks to expertly paced cinematography and scripting, every dialogue scene overflows with meaning and energy. Characters are colorful and fleshed-out. Dialogue shows the chaotic morality of oil executives and the compassionate community of the Osage tribe.

The movie is bold and honest in its approach to racial division. We see racism closing in on the Osage people in both the actions and worldviews of white settlers. It manifests itself in an increasingly twisted and graphic way as the movie goes on.

Sensitive viewers should know the movie contains gun violence, physical assault, sexual harassment, multiple onscreen deaths throughout the film, an emotionally charged child death and shots of the mangled flesh of the murdered Osage tribe members.

The film explores what it means to be indigenous and what it means to see sacred land and heritage threatened. It also explores how systems of greed can endanger the minds and hearts of all involved.

Mollie Burkharts character arc is complex. Thanks to Gladstones masterful performance, the viewer may feel as isolated and vulnerable as Mollie Burkhart.

Killers of the Flower Moon is the polar opposite of a stuffy period drama. It presents history as believable everyday happenings that affect peoples personal lives. It is a heavy movie that puts greed and racism on full display, so be ready for something that will make you want to stare at a wall afterwards and let your emotions sink in.

The movies effectiveness with painting a picture of a broken world extends to how the murder trials unfold. The viewer witnesses a place where justice is absent. Jesse Plemons brings a procedural element to the plate in a gripping supporting performance as murder investigator Tom White. Brendan Fraser, Robert De Niro and Scorsese himself also round out the cast.

The movie is well worth its lengthy runtime, as it immerses the viewer in a historical atrocity they might have overlooked otherwise, giving them loss, pain and mistaken decisions to learn from through riveting performances from DiCaprio and Gladstone.
Report: Number of Palestinians JAILED in Israel soars to 10,000 in 2 weeks

Israel has arrested a huge number of Palestinians in the two weeks since the beginning of its bombing of the Gaza Strip, doubling the number of Palestinians in its custody.

Prior to the Oct. 7 attack by the Hamas terrorist group on Israel, around 5,200 Palestinians were in Israeli prisons. Palestinian officials said on Oct. 19 that this number has now increased to more than 10,000. Based on reports from both officials and human rights groups, Israel has arrested some 4,000 workers in Gaza and 1,070 other Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem  with the latter being arrested during overnight raids by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

"Arrests are taking place 24 hours a day," said Sahar Francis, head of the Addameer prisoners' rights group based in the city of Ramallah in the West Bank. He told Al Jazeera that the majority of the people from Gaza are being detained at a military base called Sde Teyman, near Beersheba in the southern Naqab desert. Hundreds of other people are imprisoned in Ofer prison near Ramallah and in the Anatot military camp near the village of Anata in occupied East Jerusalem, Francis added.

Palestinian lawyers and officials have stressed the serious mistreatment and dreadful conditions detainees are being subjected to.

Qadura Fares, head of the Palestinian Authority's Commission for Detainees' Affairs, said at a press conference last Oct. 19 in Ramallah that the latest developments concerning prisoners are "unprecedented" and "dangerous."

"We hesitated a lot about holding this press conference addressing yet another chapter of Israeli crimes, on what our male and female prisoners are being exposed to in the occupation's prisons, for fear of creating tension and anxiety among the families of prisoners, and our Palestinian people in general," said Fares.

"Prisoners are subjected to starvation and thirst; they are prevented from accessing their medicine, specifically for those suffering from chronic illnesses that require regular medication," Fares stated, adding that issues became worse "when the prison administration cut off water and electricity."

Addameer also reported on the prevention of access to medical care with the shutdown of the prison clinics and prisoners prevented from going to hospitals and external clinics.

Arrested Palestinians are assaulted, degraded

Fares mentioned that "the most dangerous thing" over the past few days was the "physical attacks" and degrading treatment.

"Everyone who is arrested is assaulted," he lamented. "Many of the prisoners have had their limbs, hands and legs broken  degrading and insulting expressions, insults, cursing, tying them with handcuffs to the back and tightening them at the end to the point of causing severe pain  naked, humiliating and group search of the prisoners."

During times of "calm" under Israel's 56-year military occupation, 15 to 20 people are arrested on a regular basis. Nonetheless, the regular arrest rate of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem has increased to 120 people since Oct. 7, per Palestinian officials.

Meanwhile, a senior Hamas official has earlier demanded the release of 6,000 Palestinians in Israel's jails in exchange for Israelis held hostage in Gaza. Khaled Meshaal, former chair of the Hamas Political Bureau, said the hostages include high-ranking officers from the IDF's Gaza Division responsible for monitoring the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli military said on Oct. 16 that 199 captives were being detained in the embattled territory, a higher number than previously estimated. However, another Hamas official said he "does not know" how many hostages are still alive.

"I have no idea because it is impossible under this heavy bombardment," Hamas head of political and international relations Dr. Basem Naim told Sky News. "The communications are totally cut."

Naim emphasized that Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip, was prepared to release civilian hostages when "aggression  is stopped." (Related: Hamas FREES 2 American hostages on HUMANITARIAN grounds.)

Follow WWIII.news for more news about the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Watch this video about the release of two hostages from Hamas captivity.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Hostages held by Hamas in Gaza will be almost impossible to rescue, warns counterterrorism expert.

Israel has already attacked hospitals and health care facilities in Gaza 51 times, says horrified United Nations.

Why JEWS are calling for PEACE and a halting of Israeli genocide against the Palestinian people.

Israel: Hamas SLAUGHTERED 40 children and babies in one town, with whole families burned alive or shot dead.

Fears of impending attack on Israel from the West Bank mount as convoys of Muslim women and children evacuate to Jordan.

Sources include:

AlJazeera.com

Addameer.org

SkyNews.com

Brighteon.com
RFK Jr. to support reparations for Black American community by means of targeted government-funded programs, not cash giveaways

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has vowed to support reparations for the African American community if elected president in the latest pronouncement that can directly threaten President Joe Biden's left-wing voting base

Kennedy, who recently ditched the Democratic Party's presidential primary following allegations that the party machinery had rigged the nomination for Biden, has published a statement on his campaign website approving of providing Black communities with tax credits, direct redress payments and federal investment dollars. (Related: Marist poll: RFK Jr.'s independent run could help Biden in 2024.)

"Communities that were specifically targeted for destruction need to be specifically targeted for repair," wrote the Kennedy campaign on the part of his campaign website devoted to platform positions on "Civil Rights" and "Racial Healing."

"During Jim Crow, Black banks, businesses, hospitals, schools and farms were targeted for destruction. Racists knew that without these, the Black community had no chance of building wealth. We must set federal dollars aside to rebuild Black infrastructure," the page continued. "These programs complement direct redress payments or tax credits to the [descendants] of the victims of Jim Crow and other victims of persecution. RFK Jr. will find ways to offer this redress that are legal, fair and win the approval of Americans of all races."

Kennedy argued that targeted programs and investments, rather than no-strings-attached cash giveaways, would be more acceptable for all Americans and "less likely to contribute to polarization between Blacks and Whites," especially if the investments and programs benefit everyone.

"My policy of targeted community repair is not the same as race-based reparations. The program will make capital and resources available to the poorest and most desperate communities in America," said Kennedy. "These include inner cities, the rust belt, Appalachia, the devastated towns of the farm belt."

"Yes, because Black people are disproportionately poor, this program will benefit them disproportionately," he added. "But the criteria will be indicators like poverty, addiction rates, violence, et cetera. Not skin color."

Speaking out in favor of reparations could take more voters away from Biden

Kennedy's decision to support reparations comes as he continues to try and court both Republican and Democratic voters alike.

Despite regular calls from the left-wing of the Democratic Party as well as activist groups, Biden has largely been silent on the issue of reparations, leading to widespread frustration, especially among the party's disillusioned left-leaning voters.

These activist groups and far-left elected officials have called on Biden to issue some kind of executive order on reparations to avoid congressional gridlock, similar to how he used executive orders to issue student loan forgiveness.

The only thing the White House has done is say that it is committed to conducting some kind of study into reparations. Biden himself has not specifically said whether he would sign any kind of bill in support of reparations.

Political commentators note that Kennedy's support for reparations should harm Biden's chances of winning key swing states, as more Black voters in those states turn to Kennedy.

Watch this clip from "Battleground" on Red Voice Media as host Sean Parnell reacts to Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s decision to support reparations for the African-American community.

This video is from the Red Voice Media channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Poll: RFK Jr. running as independent would help Trump, hurt Biden.

Not getting a fair shot: RFK Jr. to announce plan to run as INDEPENDENT, stresses DNC is RIGGING the primaries.

Survey: 33% of Democrats to vote for RFK Jr. if he runs independently  DNC headed for PANIC.

The Democrats are about to get BLINDSIDED by the voters' wholesale REJECTION of their disastrous policies.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

GBNews.com

NYPost.com

Brighteon.com
A comet reported to be twice the size of Mount Everest or equivalent to the length of Manhattan is approaching Earth after it passed our Solar System. The said space object, officially known as 12P/Pons-Brooks, has been nicknamed the "Devil Comet" due to its estimated size of 12.6 miles across. It was last observed on October 20, according to NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Despite the colossal size of the Devil Comet and its projected trajectory, computer simulations by astronomers do not show any imminent collision with Earth in the near future. With this, 12P/Pons-Brooks has not been classified yet as a potentially hazardous object. This means that the giant comet poses no threat to our planet, mainly based on its distance and position in our Solar System.

12P/Pons-Brooks Discovery

12P/Pons-Brooks was first discovered in 1812 by Jean-Louis Pons at Marseilles, France, according to NASA, which classifies the object as a Halley-type Comet, which are described as periodic comets having an orbital period of fewer than 200 years or between 20 and 200 years. Also known as intermediate-period comets, Hailey-type Comets have medium-length orbits directed to the ecliptic plane of the Solar System.

According to Quanzhi Ye, an astronomer from the University of Maryland, some astronomers hinted that existence of observational record of the Devil Comet dating back to 1385, which makes Pons-Brooks one of the very few comets to have been observed for a very long time. After it was last spotted in 1953, the said comet will be visible again from Earth in April 2024.

Also Read: Giant 'Alien Comet' from Different Solar System Approaches Our Sun [Scientists]

Is There a Comet That Will Destroy Earth?

When it comes to planet-destroying space rocks or other celestial objects, asteroids have often been the subject of apocalyptic scenarios. This recognition stems from the fact the object "Chicxulub impactor" that killed the dinosaurs 66 million years ago was a C-type asteroid, based on prevailing census.

Comets have been more of a sky-gazing spectacle rather than a planetary threat, compared with their space rock counterpart. In this context, space enthusiasts and astronomers in the past have posed the question if the large space objects made of dust and ice can also damage or destroy Earth.

According to NASA, both asteroids and comets can cause craters, as well as relative damage depending on their size. Although there are many comets belonging to giant classes with a width of 1 to 10 kilometers, there are no known near-Earth comets that pose a threat currently.

Largest Comet Observed

In a media release in April 2022, NASA's Hubble Space Telescope confirmed the largest comet observed, particularly in terms of the size of an icy comet nuclear ever seen by astronomers in history.

The giant comet, named C/2014 UN271 or Comet Bernardinelli-Bernstein, has an estimated diameter of approximately 80 miles and its nucleus is 50 times larger than the heart of most known comets. It is even larger than the state of Rhode Island, according to the US space agency.

Related Article: Remnants of a Comet that Exploded in 2007 Will Reach the Earth
Tarpon is one of the most iconic and prized salt-water fish in the Southeastern and Gulf states of the U.S.

Known to anglers as the "Silver King," these fish can grow up to 200 pounds and fight fiercely, often leaping out of the water in their efforts to shake a hook.

But despite their legendary toughness, tarpons are also vulnerable to various threats, such as fishing, habitat loss, and degraded water quality.

To better understand and conserve these fish, researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst have used a novel technique to track their movements and behavior over five years.

Tarpon Biology: An Ancient and Unique Fish

Tarpons belong to an ancient genus of fish that dates back to the Cretaceous period, about 113 million years ago.

They are among the most primitive species classified under 30 orders of bony fish. They have several unique features that make them adaptable to various environments.

For example, they have a modified swim bladder that allows them to gulp air from the surface when oxygen levels are low in the water.

This ability enables them to survive in hypoxic or anoxic conditions, such as mangrove lagoons or rivers with dams.

Tarpons are also thermophilic, meaning they prefer warm water temperatures between 72 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit.

They can tolerate salinity changes from fresh to salt water, but they tend to avoid cold water2. Tarpons are carnivorous predators that feed on fish and large invertebrates2. They have large mouths with protruding lower jaws that can engulf their prey whole2.

Acoustic Telemetry: A High-Tech Tool for Fish Tracking

The researchers, led by Lucas Griffin, a postdoctoral researcher in environmental conservation, and Andy Danylchuk, a professor of fish conservation, used acoustic telemetry to monitor the migration patterns of 200 tarpons across thousands of kilometers.

Acoustic telemetry involves two devices: a small acoustic transmitter, surgically implanted in the fish, and an acoustic receiver, anchored in place for years at a time.

Every time a tagged fish swims within the detection range of a receiver, the receiver records the date, time, and ID of that specific fish.

Acoustic telemetry has several advantages over other methods of fish tracking, such as satellite tags. The transmitters are small and do not hinder the fish's movement, they work continuously for at least five years and they cannot be lost.

The receivers are also part of a larger network of acoustic arrays that span the entire coastlines of the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean, allowing researchers to track fish movements across vast distances.

Danylchuk explained that acoustic telemetry was the only way to get such a detailed understanding of where and when tarpon were migrating, and over so many years.

Also Read: Fish Kills and Seagrass Loss: A Climate Change Challenge for Florida Keys

Two Distinct Subgroups of Tarpon: Implications for Conservation

The researchers analyzed the data from the acoustic telemetry network and found that there are two distinct subgroups of tarpon: one that migrates along the Atlantic coast from Florida to North Carolina, and another that migrates along the Gulf coast from Florida to Texas.

These subgroups have different timing and spatial extent of migration, as well as different exposure to environmental conditions and human impacts.

The researchers also found that tarpon uses both coastal and estuarine habitats during their migration and that they exhibit high site fidelity, meaning they return to the same locations year after year.

These findings have important implications for the conservation and management of tarpon, as they suggest that different subgroups may require different strategies to protect their habitats and reduce their threats.

Griffin said that every fish told a story and that by using acoustic telemetry, they could listen to those stories and learn more about how to conserve these amazing fish.

Related article: Tons of Dead Fishes: Tampa Bay Will Be "Dead Zone" if Red Tide Doesn't End Soon
The Guam kingfisher, or sihek, is one of the rarest birds in the world. It has been extinct in the wild for more than 30 years, due to the invasion of the brown tree snake that decimated its population.

However, thanks to the efforts of conservationists, zookeepers and scientists, there is hope for its recovery and reintroduction to its native habitat.

A recently published paper in Animal Conservation provides crucial insights into the health of sihek, revealing the challenges and opportunities for their survival.

The Gender Gap: Why Female Sihek Are More Vulnerable Than Males

One of the findings of the paper is that female sihek are at greater risk for death and disease than their male counterparts.

The researchers examined the causes of death in the birds and found differences between males and females.

Females succumbed to reproductive diseases-a phenomenon not observed in males. The incidence of reproductive diseases among female sihek was also notably higher than in other avian species.

The paper's principal investigator, Dr. Amanda Trask from The Zoological Society of London, said that it is still unclear why this is occurring, but added that the team's upcoming research will delve into a potential correlation with increased egg production.

Other causes of death, such as nutritional and metabolic diseases, were seen in both males and females, but females tended to succumb at younger ages than males.

Trask thanked the Morris Animal Foundation for supporting her work and said that they must continue to review and build upon existing knowledge of their care to ensure that the species has the best possible chance.

She also said that the sihek is a species on the very brink of being lost forever-and it is only due to the care and expertise of conservation zoos that these birds still exist, giving them a chance to return to the wild.

Also Read: Saving Colorful Guam Kingfisher: Scientists Hopeful To Conserve Declining Bird Population

The Countdown: How 3D Printing Technology Is Preparing Sihek for Reintroduction

Another challenge for sihek conservation is how to track and monitor them once they are released into the wild.

Scientists need to determine which harness materials can carry a tracking device and stand the test of time.

That's where six of the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute's (SCBI) kingfishers come in. They are participating in "test flights" using replica transmitters made by 3D printing technology.

Bird keeper Erica Royer from SCBI said that they are working with other Sihek Recovery Team partners to crack the code of how to care for and breed this amazing species.

She said that siheks are considered extinct in the wild by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and that their numbers are growing thanks to intensive captive breeding and conservation efforts.

SCBI hatched its first chick in 1985 and since then, 22 chicks have hatched there as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Guam Kingfisher Species Survival Plan.

Today, there are 140 individuals in human care, and SCBI cares for 12 of them.

The goal is to reintroduce sihek into their native Guam forests or other suitable habitats, such as the Palmyra Atoll.

However, Guam still can't sustain wild sihek because of the brown tree snake's unyielding presence, despite extensive eradication efforts.

Therefore, scientists need to find alternative locations where sihek can thrive and be protected from predators.

Royer said that they are using 3D printing technology to create different types of harnesses and transmitters that can fit sihek comfortably and securely.

They are testing them on six birds at SCBI to see how they affect their behavior, flight performance and health. They are also collecting data on how long the harnesses last and how well they transmit signals.

She said that this is a crucial step toward reintroducing one of the world's rarest animals back into the wild and that they are hopeful that they will be able to do so soon.

The Guam kingfisher, or sihek, is a symbol of conservation hope these days. It has been extinct in the wild for more than 30 years, but thanks to intensive captive breeding and conservation efforts, it now stands on the brink of being released back into the wild.

However, there are still many challenges and uncertainties for its survival, such as gender disparity, reproductive diseases, tracking technology, and habitat suitability.

Scientists are working hard to overcome these obstacles and ensure that sihek can soar over their native forests once again.

Related article: Rare Moustached Kingfisher "Collected" From the Field Stirs Ethical Controversy
Officials claimed that predatory raccoons are to blame for the rapid decline in the wild turkey population in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma's Wild Turkey Population Drops

Oklahoma's once-robust wild turkey population is facing a concerning decline, with a sharp drop over the last six years despite conservation efforts.

The state hosts three turkey subspecies, notably the Rio Grande, which has seen the most substantial decrease.

Bill Dinkines, from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, is actively researching the issue.

Wild turkeys were nearly extinct by 1925, but a restoration program using birds from Texas in 1948 led to a resurgence. By the 1980s, the national population neared full recovery, reaching 6.7 million in 2010.

Oklahoma experienced significant growth from 2000 to 2006, with an estimated population of around 100,000 in 2016.

However, as of last year, the number plummeted to 70,000, raising concerns about the long-term survival of these iconic birds. The decline underscores the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect Oklahoma's wild turkey population.

Declining Population vs. Predatory Raccoons

At the Senate Wildlife Committee's interim hearing, Scott Alls, the state director of the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service/Wildlife Service, addressed the complexity of wild turkey population dynamics.

He cited factors like extreme weather, bird diseases, predators, and habitat issues working against them.

Alls highlighted the role of mesocarnivores such as raccoons, skunks, opossums, crows, and feral swine in reducing wild turkey numbers. He emphasized that nests located near predator feeding stations had a higher risk of attack, increasing the challenge.

Raccoons, in particular, played a significant role in the decline.

State Sen. Blake Stephens noted Oklahoma's efforts to address the issue, including lower bag limits and adjusted spring turkey season dates.

He drew a parallel to the past quail population decline followed by a turkey population surge and now a concerning turkey decline.

Stephens also mentioned potential incentives for farmers and ranchers to enhance turkey habitats statewide. This issue extends beyond Oklahoma, affecting turkey populations more broadly.

The challenges are multi-faceted, requiring comprehensive efforts to protect these cherished birds.

Wild Turkey Population Decline Elsewhere

In September, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks announced it had canceled its fall turkey hunting season, citing a decline in turkey populations across the Midwest and southeastern parts of the country.

Kent Fricke, a small game biologist with Kansas' DWP, said that the destruction of turkey habitat from urbanization and losses caused by extreme weather events, such as drought and flooding had all contributed to the decrease.

In addition to Kansas, Mississippi announced it, too, had canceled its fall turkey hunting season.

Also Read: Endangered California Condor Killed by Gunshot, $5,000 Reward Offered to Find Culprit

The Quest for a Solution

Oklahoma hosts three wild turkey subspecies: Eastern, Rio Grande, and Merriams, sometimes interbreeding where ranges meet.

These birds are sizable, with toms often exceeding 20 pounds, possessing strong legs, wings, and keen senses.

While both sexes heed hunters' calls, only toms are fair game, distinguishable by their size and vibrant colors.

Dinkines from Wildlife Conservation reported cooperation with scientists to boost the population; a hopeful sign as declines steadied in 2022 to 2023.

Stephens stressed the need for legislative understanding and truth-seeking throughout the study. He's searching for solutions to preserve Oklahoma's beloved birds.

Related Article: Endangered Bird Wattled Curassow Chick Hatches in Houston Zoo, Species Count Now 25
In a recent study, researchers used radio waves to map the Antarctic landscape, including its ancient rivers that have lain dormant and hidden under ice for millions of years.

Hidden Antarctic Landscape and Ancient Rivers

On Tuesday, scientists unveiled a colossal hidden terrain, shaped by ancient rivers and preserved beneath the Antarctic ice for eons. This immense expanse, larger than Belgium, has endured over 34 million years in pristine isolation. However, the looming threat of human-induced global warming threatens to unveil its secrets, caution British and American researchers.

Stewart Jamieson, a glaciologist from Durham University, spearheading the research, underscored this as an uncharted realm, one that remains unseen by human eyes. Notably, the researchers did not rely on new data but employed a new methodology, revealing an astonishing reality hiding in plain sight.

Jamieson remarked that the subglacial East Antarctic landscape is less explored than Mars' surface, adding an exciting dimension to our understanding of Earth's enigmatic history.

Tracing Radio Waves

To explore beneath Antarctica's vast expanse, researchers utilize radio-echo sounding, sending radio waves from planes overhead to scrutinize echoes. Yet, due to its colossal size, spanning more extensive than Europe, this method poses a monumental challenge. Instead, scientists turned to satellite imagery, mapping valleys and ridges hidden nearly 2 miles beneath the ice. The undulating ice surface forms a "ghost image" veiling these rugged features.

When integrated with radio-echo-sounding data, a vivid picture emerges of a terrain sculpted by ancient rivers, featuring plunging valleys and sharp peaks akin to Earth's current landscapes. Stewart Jamieson likened it to gazing from an airplane window at a mountainous region below, resembling Wales' Snowdonia area. This 12,000-square-mile region once teemed with trees, forests, and likely animals.

Frozen for 14 Million Years

According to Jamieson, the ice froze this landscape "in time." Pinpointing when sunlight last graced this hidden realm remains challenging, but scientists estimate it's been at least 14 million years. Jamieson's "hunch" suggests it might have been exposed over 34 million years ago when Antarctica initially froze. Notably, the team previously identified a city-sized subglacial lake, sparking hopes of uncovering more ancient landscapes below.

Also Read: Massive Iceberg Hits 2-Year-Old Penguin Refuge, Clarence Island in Antarctica, No Birds Were Hurt

Global Warming

The study's authors raise concerns about the newfound landscape's vulnerability to global warming. They note that current trends could recreate atmospheric conditions resembling those from 14 to 34 million years ago when temperatures were 3 to 7 degrees Celsius warmer than today. Stewart Jamieson highlights the landscape's considerable inland distance from the ice's edge, making any potential exposure a distant prospect.

Notably, the fact that previous warming periods, like the Pliocene 3 to 4.5 million years ago, didn't reveal this landscape offers some optimism. However, the critical threshold for a "runaway reaction" of melting remains uncertain.

This study's release coincided with warnings about the accelerating melt of the nearby West Antarctic Ice Sheet, even if global warming mitigation goals are achieved. It underscores the urgency of addressing climate change to protect Antarctica's hidden wonders and mitigate its broader environmental impacts.

Related Article: Ancient Glaciers From 2.9B Years Ago Still Intact Under Gold Deposits in Africa
Death Valley in California is both the hottest and driest region in North America. However, two months after Hurricane Hilary's onslaught, areas of the national park resemble an oasis rather than a desert.

The parched land has become ponds, wildflowers are blooming in remote regions, and a salt flat has become a large lake.

"Lakes in the sand dunes wasn't on our 2023 bingo card," the park posted on Instagram. "Ephemeral lakes popped up around the park, which is both pretty rare and amazing."

Hurricane Hilary Onslaught

Hurricane Hilary dumped 2.2 inches of rain on Death Valley in only 24 hours on August 20, the wettest day in the park's history.

According to statistics dating back to 1911, the park had never recorded more than 2 inches of rain in a single day.

The parched desert soil was unable to absorb the enormous rainfall quickly enough, resulting in rapid flooding. The stream of water wiped away paths as well as most of what was in its path.

The damage was so severe that Death Valley National Park was forced to close from late August to mid-October, the longest closure in the park's history, according to Mike Reynolds, the park's superintendent.

In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Hilary, floodwaters collected in various spots throughout the vast park, including the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Mud fissures are the only remnants of the several ponds that have dried up since August.

Excess water also caused wildflowers to bloom early in a distant region of the park that most visitors cannot reach.

"It is definitely a rare and special event," said Death Valley Park spokesperson Abby Wine, adding that it only happens roughly once a decade.

Read Also: Death Valley Likely to Reach 130 F Heat Temperature; Risk of Wildfires, Heat-Related Stress Possible

Badwater Basin

The floodwaters changed the well-known Badwater Basin salt flats, which are now covered in shimmering water estimated to be 2 feet deep.

"That's what it was in 2005, the last time there was a significant lake there," Los Angeles Times park ranger Matthew Lamar said.

While the park is enjoying its wettest period in nearly two decades, the water will not last long.

Lamar said it will depend on the temperature, but given the landscape's high evaporation rate, it could be only a matter of weeks before the waters recede.

The basin, which spans about 200 square miles and is known for its spectacular salt formations, previously hosted an ancient lake that evaporated tens of thousands of years ago.

It is the lowest point in North America, at 282 feet below sea level.

Visitors are reminded that Death Valley National Park is only partially reopened and that they can expect delays and reduced speed limits until the damage is entirely repaired.

This was the park's second straight year of closure due to a record-breaking rain event, and crews are currently trying to repair damage from 2022.

This summer's torrential rains exacerbated the devastation, washing away roads and burying infrastructure.

Related Article: Flash Floods at Death Valley Bury Cars and Leaves 1000 People Stranded

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By November, according to officials, Maui will be open and ready for tourists, although some locations, like Lahaina, will remain closed due to the dreadful wildfire damages incurred recently.

Maui Readies for Tourists This November

Following the rehabilitation that took place after the fatal wildfires in August, the majority of West Maui in Hawaii could reopen to tourists as early as next month, according to the island's mayor.

According to Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen, all of West Maui will reopen to tourists on November 1 except for burned-out areas of old Lahaina. The mayor claimed that after consulting with his Lahaina advisory team, the Red Cross, and other partners, the decision to reopen was made.

On August 8, a fire that surged through Lahaina in Hawaii caused the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century, killing at least 99 individuals while destroying more than 2,000 houses.

With 11,000 hotel rooms or roughly half of all Maui's rooms, West Maui is a significant contributor to Hawaii's tourism industry. A large exodus of guests departed those hotels to escape the flames.

West Maui will formally reopen to tourists on October 8 as promised by Hawaii Governor Josh Green last month in an effort to restore much-needed jobs and aid the recovery of the economy.

Local Economy vs Rest

The governor's order to gradually reopen the county was modified by Mayor Bissen, who allowed a small area on the western tip of West Maui to reopen initially and the rest to do so later.

Locals disagree on whether or not tourists should return to the island; some believe it would boost the local economy, while others believe the disaster-stricken area is not ready.

Even a petition protesting the arrival of visitors was created by some locals.

During a press conference in Lahaina, Bissen appeared to acknowledge this opposition, saying that although this isn't for everyone, employees are prepared to resume their employment.

Bissen advises those who are not ready to return to work on November 1 to keep seeking the support and care they require.

The mayor also offered comfort to locals who were temporarily residing in West Maui hotels and other lodgings after losing their homes in the fire.

According to Bissen, the Red Cross assured them that the housing provisions wouldn't be under threat.

Some places have already made their own independent reopenings.

Also Read: Maui Widlfire: Nearly 100-Year Old Wood House Escapes Devastating Wildfire By Surrounding Open Space

Lahaina After the Devastating Wildfire

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, Lahaina residents and their allies held banners and signs at a news conference at the Hawaii State Capitol in Honolulu on a petition requesting Hawaii Governor Josh Green to postpone plans to reopen a stretch of West Maui to tourism beginning this weekend.

More than 14,000 people have signed the petition, which comes during a contentious and agonizing discussion about when visitors should be allowed to return to the area, which is home to the ancient town of Lahaina. The deadliest US wildfire on record for more than a century dealt a huge load of damage to the aforementioned historic town.

Related Article: Lahaina Banyan Tree: 150-Year-Old 'Traumatized Burn Victim' of Maui Wildfire 'Still Breathing'
CARSON CITY  The Nevada Arts Council announced that the nomination period will begin soon for the next State of Nevada Poet Laureate.

The Poet Laureate is a governor-appointed position. The Nevada Arts Council oversees the selection process, and the councils choice will be submitted to the governor for final consideration and appointment.

The role of the Poet Laureate is to propagate the art of poetry and encourage literacy and learning throughout the state.

The Nevada Poet Laureate holds the position for a two-year term, beginning at the time of appointment in 2024.

To be considered for the position, all applicants must first be nominated. The nomination period is Nov. 1 through Nov. 30. All applicant support material is due by Dec. 31.

A snapshot of requirements:

 Applicants must be a current full-time Nevada resident and have been in residence for at least five years prior to the date of the application.

 Must be at least 21 years old.

 Must not be enrolled as a degree-seeking student.

 Have a strong body of work, not limited to published works.

 Have interest/experience in reaching distinct and underserved groups through the arts and humanities.

 The role of the Nevada Poet Laureate requires a public outreach project, the details of which will be mutually agreed upon with Nevada Arts Council after the gubernatorial appointment is made.

To learn more about the Nevada Poet Laureate position, visit the Nevada Arts Council website.
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Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson (R) was elected speaker of the House on Wednesday, ending more than three weeks of chaos among House Republicans that ground the chamber to a halt amid an impending shutdown deadline and an urgent funding request from The White House for Israel and Ukraine.

Rep. Mark Amodei (R-NV), Nevadas only federally elected Republican, initially voted present in an internal Republican conference ballot  he was one of three Republicans to do so  because he said his and Johnsons paths [hadnt] crossed much over the seven years theyve served in Congress together.

But after talking with Johnson, his chief of staff and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), Amodei decided to support the Louisianian on the floor, contributing to his 220-209 victory.

Johnson, a 51-year-old relatively unknown backbencher and conservative policy wonk who served in leadership as vice chair, now will be spearheading Republican efforts to pass spending bills, fund the government by Nov. 17 and negotiate with Senate leaders and a president who have decades more experience than he does. A modest fundraiser up until this point, hell need to raise money for Republican challengers such as those hoping to flip Nevadas three Las Vegas-based seats from Democratic control.

Before Congress, Johnson was a constitutional lawyer on behalf of socially conservative causes, including banning same-sex marriage and abortion in Louisiana. He went on to serve in the Louisiana Legislature and then in Washington, D.C.

He was a principal architect of the legal argument used by House Republicans who voted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, saying pandemic-era changes to voting procedures, such as permitting vote by mail, was unconstitutional. Johnson led the 2020 amicus brief to the Supreme Court that some House Republicans signed onto supporting Texas lawsuit against swing states that Biden won.

Amodei, a typically solid member of his conference, supported Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) for speaker yesterday. After Emmer dropped out four hours after winning the conference vote and Johnson emerged as the new front-runner, Amodei said he wanted to do his due diligence on the speaker designate before offering his support.

As the only [Nevada] Republican voice on the Hill, I feel a little additional responsibility, without a delegation to fall back on, Amodei said in an interview Wednesday.

After the conference vote, he said Scalise called him to ask about his concerns, and then quickly connected him with Johnson, giving Amodei an opportunity to spell out his Nevada-specific priorities  passing the Clark County and Northern Nevada lands bills, resolving disputes between Union Pacific Railroad and the City of Sparks, and acquiring new military planes for the Nevada National Guard.

Johnson, a member of the House Armed Services Committee, was already well-versed on military needs. So, Amodei tuned him up on his lands bills and Department of Interior priorities.

Amodei said he asked Johnson for his personal cell phone number, his chief of staffs number, and his top natural resources staffers number, all of which Johnson provided. He had a follow-up conversation about those Nevada issues with Johnsons chief of staff Wednesday morning.

I said, Hey, Im sure youre fine on national stuff, Amodei said. But weve had stuff that weve been working on over several Congresses. And so I want to make you aware of those.

Its not that I need your help, he added. I try to be self-sufficient. But I want you [to] read in on them, so that if someone comes from a different direction, or we do need help, Im not taking you and your staff [from] zero.

Johnson set an ambitious schedule Wednesday morning for the House moving forward. He wants to pass the eight remaining spending bills over the next three-and-a-half weeks leading up to the Nov. 17 government funding deadline, including the legislative branch appropriations bill that Amodei sponsored and shepherded through committee.

He also proposed another stopgap funding bill that would keep the government open through either Jan. 15 or April 15.

The debt limit deal negotiated in May by both parties  which all of the Nevada delegation voted for  stipulates an across-the-board 1 percent spending cut if only a short-term funding patch is in place. The cut, however, would not go into effect until April 2024.

Nevadas three Democrats voted, as they have in 19 speaker ballots, for Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY). In a brief interview, Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV) said she did not have a relationship with Johnson, but that his anti-gay marriage, anti-abortion and election denial stances represented three pretty big [strikes].

Last week, Amodei predicted that no one could unite the Republican conference  not even Jesus, Mary or Joseph.

Now, he said he hopes Johnson gets to enjoy a brief honeymoon period and that getting back to work in the House will be cathartic.

Its still not Jesus, Mary or Joseph, Amodei said. But well try Mike Johnson.
By PTI

MUMBAI: Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal says it is important for a director to be objective while making films about politically relevant events and personalities.

Benegal, considered a pioneer of the Indian parallel cinema movement with classics such as "Ankur", "Nishant", "Manthan", "Bhumika", "Junoon" and "Mandi" to his credit, said it is always easy to take sides but a storyteller has a responsibility towards history and must present it as objectively as possible.

"It is easy to take sides. You cannot look at it objectively, not everybody can, even I cannot, but the fact is that we have to see to it that we are as objective as possible because you are responsible to history, not to anybody else," Benegal told PTI in a group interview.

He was asked about movies like Vivek Agnihotri's "The Kashmir Files" and Sudipto Sen's "The Kerala Story", and how important it is for filmmakers to stay neutral when they make films about politically relevant events.

"It depends on how close you are to the (subject), whether you can be objective enough or not. Now 'The Kashmir Files' is a very earnest film but he is too close to the subject because he is (referring to actor Anupam Kher) a Kashmiri himself, he is too close. He cannot have the objectivity that is necessary," Benegal said.

Starring Kher and Pallavi Joshi, "The Kashmir Files" depicted the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir valley in the 1990s.

It opened to polarised reactions in March 2022 but became one of the most commercially successful Hindi films of the year.

Benegal, 88, is currently promoting his latest film "Mujib - The Making of a Nation".

The biographical drama narrates the life story of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh and later its prime minister who was assassinated with most of his family in 1975.

Benegal said it is difficult to make a film on a politician's life.

He added that it was essential for him to tap into the humane side of Rahman and bring out unknown facets of his life.

"It is not easy to make because you end up doing many conventional things. It is very difficult to say anything from another point of view because so many points of view have already been covered by so many people -- historians and newspaper reporters ---because they are people in the news and hence there's a lot written about them.

"So, in that jungle of information you have to find your way and find that one thing that suddenly reveals the man. It's like peeling an onion. Like, we have our prime minister, how many of us know him, I don't know but we think we know him because there's a public image about him. But how many of us know him as a person? This happens with public figures."

"Mujib - The Making of a Nation" is a collaboration between India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC).

Benegal credited the central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for allowing him to make the film the way he wanted to make.

"I must say our present government has not for a minute. It has nothing in common with the government that was there that time but despite that they did not. Our present prime minister did not stop this film from taking shape the way it did, nobody sat there and told me what I should be doing," he said.

Bangladeshi actor Arifin Shuvoo plays the title role in the film, which also stars Nusrat Imrose as his wife Renu and Nusrat Faria as Sheikh Hasina, his daughter and the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh.

"Mujib - The Making of a Nation" is scheduled to be released in theatres on Friday.

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MUMBAI: Veteran filmmaker Shyam Benegal says it is important for a director to be objective while making films about politically relevant events and personalities. Benegal, considered a pioneer of the Indian parallel cinema movement with classics such as "Ankur", "Nishant", "Manthan", "Bhumika", "Junoon" and "Mandi" to his credit, said it is always easy to take sides but a storyteller has a responsibility towards history and must present it as objectively as possible. "It is easy to take sides. You cannot look at it objectively, not everybody can, even I cannot, but the fact is that we have to see to it that we are as objective as possible because you are responsible to history, not to anybody else," Benegal told PTI in a group interview.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He was asked about movies like Vivek Agnihotri's "The Kashmir Files" and Sudipto Sen's "The Kerala Story", and how important it is for filmmakers to stay neutral when they make films about politically relevant events. "It depends on how close you are to the (subject), whether you can be objective enough or not. Now 'The Kashmir Files' is a very earnest film but he is too close to the subject because he is (referring to actor Anupam Kher) a Kashmiri himself, he is too close. He cannot have the objectivity that is necessary," Benegal said. Starring Kher and Pallavi Joshi, "The Kashmir Files" depicted the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir valley in the 1990s. It opened to polarised reactions in March 2022 but became one of the most commercially successful Hindi films of the year. Benegal, 88, is currently promoting his latest film "Mujib - The Making of a Nation". The biographical drama narrates the life story of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the first president of Bangladesh and later its prime minister who was assassinated with most of his family in 1975. Benegal said it is difficult to make a film on a politician's life. He added that it was essential for him to tap into the humane side of Rahman and bring out unknown facets of his life. "It is not easy to make because you end up doing many conventional things. It is very difficult to say anything from another point of view because so many points of view have already been covered by so many people -- historians and newspaper reporters ---because they are people in the news and hence there's a lot written about them. "So, in that jungle of information you have to find your way and find that one thing that suddenly reveals the man. It's like peeling an onion. Like, we have our prime minister, how many of us know him, I don't know but we think we know him because there's a public image about him. But how many of us know him as a person? This happens with public figures." "Mujib - The Making of a Nation" is a collaboration between India's National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). Benegal credited the central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for allowing him to make the film the way he wanted to make. "I must say our present government has not for a minute. It has nothing in common with the government that was there that time but despite that they did not. Our present prime minister did not stop this film from taking shape the way it did, nobody sat there and told me what I should be doing," he said. Bangladeshi actor Arifin Shuvoo plays the title role in the film, which also stars Nusrat Imrose as his wife Renu and Nusrat Faria as Sheikh Hasina, his daughter and the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh. "Mujib - The Making of a Nation" is scheduled to be released in theatres on Friday. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

Israel sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the Gaza Strip in a "targeted raid" overnight that destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing from the Hamas-ruled territory, the army said Thursday.

Black smoke billowed into the sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway.

On the 20th day of Israel's deadliest Gaza war yet, launched in retaliation for the bloody October 7 Hamas attacks, the army said its forces had hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts."

The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", it said.

Israeli airstrikes have devastated parts of the Gaza Strip, leaving neighbourhoods in rubble and hospitals struggling to treat masses of wounded with diminishing resources.

The United Nations warned it's on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the blockaded territory. And the UN Security Council failed again to address the Israel-Hamas war, rejecting rival resolutions by the United States and Russia.

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry said Thursday that at least 7,028 people have been killed in Gaza by Israeli strikes since the militant group's October 7 attacks on Israel.

Some 2,913 children and 1,709 women are among the dead -- marking the highest number of war fatalities in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the territory in 2005.

The UN warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the blockaded territory.

READ IN DETAIL:

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Israel sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the Gaza Strip in a "targeted raid" overnight that destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing from the Hamas-ruled territory, the army said Thursday. Black smoke billowed into the sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway. On the 20th day of Israel's deadliest Gaza war yet, launched in retaliation for the bloody October 7 Hamas attacks, the army said its forces had hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts."googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", it said. Israeli airstrikes have devastated parts of the Gaza Strip, leaving neighbourhoods in rubble and hospitals struggling to treat masses of wounded with diminishing resources. The United Nations warned it's on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the blockaded territory. And the UN Security Council failed again to address the Israel-Hamas war, rejecting rival resolutions by the United States and Russia. Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry said Thursday that at least 7,028 people have been killed in Gaza by Israeli strikes since the militant group's October 7 attacks on Israel. Some 2,913 children and 1,709 women are among the dead -- marking the highest number of war fatalities in Gaza since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the territory in 2005. The UN warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the blockaded territory. READ IN DETAIL: Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: Over a dozen Thalassemic children undergoing blood transfusions, have tested positive for infections like Hepatitis B, C and even HIV, during their routine screening at Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital (LLRH) in Kanpur.

However, the Principal of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Medical College (GSVM) to which LLRH is affiliated, Dr Sanjay Kala refuted the claim saying no such case was reported after 2019.

Dr Kala addressed a press conference on the issue on Wednesday and refuted the claims made by Dr Arun Arya, head, of the paediatrics department, LLR and nodal officer for this centre, on Tuesday.

Dr Arya had claimed that 14 children were found infected with various viruses during the screening. Of the 14, seven tested positive for Hepatitis B, five for Hepatitis C and two for HIV. The children belonged to various districts including Farrukhabad, Auraiya, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur City and Kanpur Dehat.

He had said that the minors were now faced with a greater risk in addition to the Thalassemia condition that necessitated the transfusions.

Meanwhile, after the incident came to light, UP deputy CM and state health minister Brajesh Pathak ordered a high-level probe into the incident. At present, 180 thalassemia patients receive blood transfusions at the LLRH, which screens each of them every six months for viral diseases.

As per sources, the 14 children, aged between 6 and 16, are among the 180 patients. They tested positive for various infections during a routine test at LLRH, had received blood transfusions at private and district hospitals, and in some cases locally, when they required it urgently.

On the other hand, GSVM principal, Dr Sanjay Kala not only recommended action against Dr Arun Arya saying he was not authorised to talk to the media and share such information but also claimed that blood transfusion to the infected children was not done at LLRH.

Dr Kala also said that every thalassaemic patient used to undergo a mandatory screening at LLRH. During the screening, not even a single patient with HIV or hepatitis infection has been found here since 2019. Two HIV patientsone in 2014 and the other in 2019were found during the screening. They had got the transfusion done from some other hospital, said Dr Kala.

He added that two patients of thalassemia had tested positive for Hepatitis B in 2016, while two patients had tested positive for Hepatitis C in 2014, two in 2016 and one in 2019. So far, not a single thalassaemic patient has got infected because of the transfusion done in LLRH, said Dr Kala.

Earlier, the officials at LLRH had indicated the incident could be the outcome of the donated blood which was not tested properly for viruses. In fact, the donated blood has to be tested for a range of viruses to ensure that it is safe for transfusion. The source of the infection itself may be hard to pinpoint.

Dr Arya had said that those children who tested positive for hepatitis were referred to the gastroenterology department and the HIV patients to the referral centre in Kanpur.

He added that that blood transfusion might have taken place during the window period. According to him, there is a period of time, when the blood of an infected person does not reflect the presence of the virus in the pathological tests  this is called the window period.

At the time of transfusion, the doctors should have [also] vaccinated the children against Hepatitis B, he added. However, the officials of Uttar Pradesh National Health Mission and district-level officials would trace the root of infection under the Viral Hepatitis Control Programme. The team will look for the place of infection, both for hepatitis and HIV.

Meanwhile, the politics over the incident has gained momentum with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge launching a scathing attack on the UP government.



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LUCKNOW: Over a dozen Thalassemic children undergoing blood transfusions, have tested positive for infections like Hepatitis B, C and even HIV, during their routine screening at Lala Lajpat Rai Hospital (LLRH) in Kanpur. However, the Principal of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi Medical College (GSVM) to which LLRH is affiliated, Dr Sanjay Kala refuted the claim saying no such case was reported after 2019. Dr Kala addressed a press conference on the issue on Wednesday and refuted the claims made by Dr Arun Arya, head, of the paediatrics department, LLR and nodal officer for this centre, on Tuesday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Dr Arya had claimed that 14 children were found infected with various viruses during the screening. Of the 14, seven tested positive for Hepatitis B, five for Hepatitis C and two for HIV. The children belonged to various districts including Farrukhabad, Auraiya, Etawah, Kannauj, Kanpur City and Kanpur Dehat. He had said that the minors were now faced with a greater risk in addition to the Thalassemia condition that necessitated the transfusions. Meanwhile, after the incident came to light, UP deputy CM and state health minister Brajesh Pathak ordered a high-level probe into the incident. At present, 180 thalassemia patients receive blood transfusions at the LLRH, which screens each of them every six months for viral diseases. As per sources, the 14 children, aged between 6 and 16, are among the 180 patients. They tested positive for various infections during a routine test at LLRH, had received blood transfusions at private and district hospitals, and in some cases locally, when they required it urgently. On the other hand, GSVM principal, Dr Sanjay Kala not only recommended action against Dr Arun Arya saying he was not authorised to talk to the media and share such information but also claimed that blood transfusion to the infected children was not done at LLRH. Dr Kala also said that every thalassaemic patient used to undergo a mandatory screening at LLRH. During the screening, not even a single patient with HIV or hepatitis infection has been found here since 2019. Two HIV patientsone in 2014 and the other in 2019were found during the screening. They had got the transfusion done from some other hospital, said Dr Kala. He added that two patients of thalassemia had tested positive for Hepatitis B in 2016, while two patients had tested positive for Hepatitis C in 2014, two in 2016 and one in 2019. So far, not a single thalassaemic patient has got infected because of the transfusion done in LLRH, said Dr Kala. Earlier, the officials at LLRH had indicated the incident could be the outcome of the donated blood which was not tested properly for viruses. In fact, the donated blood has to be tested for a range of viruses to ensure that it is safe for transfusion. The source of the infection itself may be hard to pinpoint. Dr Arya had said that those children who tested positive for hepatitis were referred to the gastroenterology department and the HIV patients to the referral centre in Kanpur. He added that that blood transfusion might have taken place during the window period. According to him, there is a period of time, when the blood of an infected person does not reflect the presence of the virus in the pathological tests  this is called the window period. At the time of transfusion, the doctors should have [also] vaccinated the children against Hepatitis B, he added. However, the officials of Uttar Pradesh National Health Mission and district-level officials would trace the root of infection under the Viral Hepatitis Control Programme. The team will look for the place of infection, both for hepatitis and HIV. Meanwhile, the politics over the incident has gained momentum with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and AICC chief Mallikarjun Kharge launching a scathing attack on the UP government. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Associated Press

Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say theyve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

The Anti-Defamation League and the Center on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public.

A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wednesday that the organization's chapters and national office had received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The council's leaders believe it's the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernadino mass shooting that left 14 people dead.

The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boy's mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians.

Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiralling out of control, said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Center on American-Islamic Relations.

Saylor noted that former President George W. Bush's visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza.

ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders

The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism reported in a statement Wednesday that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23  compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, You are Jewish.

The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism found to be explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel, according to the statement.

Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land.

The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances.

"It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism, Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement.

Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022.

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Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say theyve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks. The Anti-Defamation League and the Center on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public. A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wednesday that the organization's chapters and national office had received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The council's leaders believe it's the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernadino mass shooting that left 14 people dead.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boy's mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians. Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiralling out of control, said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Center on American-Islamic Relations. Saylor noted that former President George W. Bush's visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza. ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism reported in a statement Wednesday that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23  compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, You are Jewish. The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism found to be explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel, according to the statement. Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land. The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances. "It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism, Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement. Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Namita Bajpai By

Express News Service

LUCKNOW: The plan of Congress leadership in Uttar Pradesh to bat for the beleaguered Samajwadi Party leader and the most visible Muslim face in the UP political arena --Azam Khan -- lodged in Sitapur district jail, in a bid to reconnect with Muslims, came a cropper when the SP stalwart refused to meet UP CongressCommittee chief Ajai Rai on Thursday.

Rai, along with two local Congress leaders of Sitapur, had the plan to meet Azam Khan in jail on Thursday to be seen as raising the issue of alleged injustice under the BJP rule to the most Muslim community which backed it until when Congress last ruled UP. However, Azam Khan, serving a 7-year jail sentence in connection with the case of forgery, refused to meet Ajay Rai, citing the limit on the number of visitors in Sitapur jail as per the jail manual.

As per the jail officials, prisoners could be visited by people twice in 15 days, and Azam Khan had told them that he would only meet family members and no one else. According to Sitapur Jail Superintendent, Suresh Kumar Singh, an inmate is allowed to meet sets of visitors every fortnight.

Azam Khan has already used up one visit for the current 15-day period, and he has expressed his wish to meet family members for the second visit. We have conveyed this to the CongressSitapur district president, said the jail superintendent.

It may be recalled that Azam Khan along with their wife Tazeen Fatima and son Abdullah Azam Khan was sentenced to a 7-year jail term in a birth certificate forgery case. While Azam is lodged in Sitapur district jail, his son Abdullah is in Hardoijail and his wife Tazeen Fatima is lodged in Rampur jail.UPCC chief Ajai Rai had announced on Wednesday that he would lead a party delegation to Sitapur jail to meet the former MP from Rampur on Thursday.

We will fight for Azam Khan sahib. He may be with SP but we will bat for him, said UP Congress chief Ajay Rai.

We will discuss growing atrocities against Muslims, including that of Azam Khan sahib under BJP rule at the forthcoming meeting of the partys minority committee in November, UP Congresss minority wing chief Shahnawaz Alam said.

Congresss Muslim outreach bid has come at a time when it is on a collision course with the Samajwadi Party over a failed seat-sharing arrangement in poll Madhya Pradesh. However, Ajai Rai feels that the decision to meet Azam Khan should not irk the SP leadership as Congress and SP are allies.

This is a good thing for the INDIA alliance, the UPCC chief had said adding that he did not know why Akhilesh Yadav had not met Azam Khan so far. On the other, seemingly upset over the UPCC chiefs plan to meet Azam Khan in jail Akhilesh Yadav said, There is no harm in meeting Azam Saheb.

In fact, everyone should meet him but where were the Congress when he was being framed? Even Congress leaders were busy framing him.However, political experts opine that the Congress plan to meet Azam Khan was more of a desperate effort on the part of the grand old party to woo the Muslim community which had gravitated to the SP since its inception in 1992.

By taking up his case, the Congress is subtly attempting to indicate to minorities that it is willing to raise its voice for all those who feel exploited under BJP, across party lines  a gesture driven by the realisation that to reclaim its lost glory, it will have to win back its lost voter base in UP. As per the Congress insiders, the party is set to launch a campaign to connect with Muslims as part of which it would also hold meetings with small groups of Muslims from December onwards.

In western UP, where Azam Khan once ruled the roost, several Muslim leaders of influence have either joined the Congress or are tipped to cross over after the results of the assembly elections in five states are out in December. Congress leaders feel that siding with Azam Khan could help them connect with Muslim-majority Rampur as well as nearby regions of Sambhal and Moradabad.

In the 2022 UP polls, one where Azam didnt campaign as he was in jail due to a series of cases registered against him, Muslims backed the SP in a big way. Of the 34 Muslim lawmakers, 32, including Azam and his son Abdullah, had won on SPticket and two on SP ally Rashtriya Lok Dals symbol, the majority of them from West UP.

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LUCKNOW: The plan of Congress leadership in Uttar Pradesh to bat for the beleaguered Samajwadi Party leader and the most visible Muslim face in the UP political arena --Azam Khan -- lodged in Sitapur district jail, in a bid to reconnect with Muslims, came a cropper when the SP stalwart refused to meet UP CongressCommittee chief Ajai Rai on Thursday. Rai, along with two local Congress leaders of Sitapur, had the plan to meet Azam Khan in jail on Thursday to be seen as raising the issue of alleged injustice under the BJP rule to the most Muslim community which backed it until when Congress last ruled UP. However, Azam Khan, serving a 7-year jail sentence in connection with the case of forgery, refused to meet Ajay Rai, citing the limit on the number of visitors in Sitapur jail as per the jail manual. As per the jail officials, prisoners could be visited by people twice in 15 days, and Azam Khan had told them that he would only meet family members and no one else. According to Sitapur Jail Superintendent, Suresh Kumar Singh, an inmate is allowed to meet sets of visitors every fortnight.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Azam Khan has already used up one visit for the current 15-day period, and he has expressed his wish to meet family members for the second visit. We have conveyed this to the CongressSitapur district president, said the jail superintendent. It may be recalled that Azam Khan along with their wife Tazeen Fatima and son Abdullah Azam Khan was sentenced to a 7-year jail term in a birth certificate forgery case. While Azam is lodged in Sitapur district jail, his son Abdullah is in Hardoijail and his wife Tazeen Fatima is lodged in Rampur jail.UPCC chief Ajai Rai had announced on Wednesday that he would lead a party delegation to Sitapur jail to meet the former MP from Rampur on Thursday. We will fight for Azam Khan sahib. He may be with SP but we will bat for him, said UP Congress chief Ajay Rai. We will discuss growing atrocities against Muslims, including that of Azam Khan sahib under BJP rule at the forthcoming meeting of the partys minority committee in November, UP Congresss minority wing chief Shahnawaz Alam said. Congresss Muslim outreach bid has come at a time when it is on a collision course with the Samajwadi Party over a failed seat-sharing arrangement in poll Madhya Pradesh. However, Ajai Rai feels that the decision to meet Azam Khan should not irk the SP leadership as Congress and SP are allies. This is a good thing for the INDIA alliance, the UPCC chief had said adding that he did not know why Akhilesh Yadav had not met Azam Khan so far. On the other, seemingly upset over the UPCC chiefs plan to meet Azam Khan in jail Akhilesh Yadav said, There is no harm in meeting Azam Saheb. In fact, everyone should meet him but where were the Congress when he was being framed? Even Congress leaders were busy framing him.However, political experts opine that the Congress plan to meet Azam Khan was more of a desperate effort on the part of the grand old party to woo the Muslim community which had gravitated to the SP since its inception in 1992. By taking up his case, the Congress is subtly attempting to indicate to minorities that it is willing to raise its voice for all those who feel exploited under BJP, across party lines  a gesture driven by the realisation that to reclaim its lost glory, it will have to win back its lost voter base in UP. As per the Congress insiders, the party is set to launch a campaign to connect with Muslims as part of which it would also hold meetings with small groups of Muslims from December onwards. In western UP, where Azam Khan once ruled the roost, several Muslim leaders of influence have either joined the Congress or are tipped to cross over after the results of the assembly elections in five states are out in December. Congress leaders feel that siding with Azam Khan could help them connect with Muslim-majority Rampur as well as nearby regions of Sambhal and Moradabad. In the 2022 UP polls, one where Azam didnt campaign as he was in jail due to a series of cases registered against him, Muslims backed the SP in a big way. Of the 34 Muslim lawmakers, 32, including Azam and his son Abdullah, had won on SPticket and two on SP ally Rashtriya Lok Dals symbol, the majority of them from West UP. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: The Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha has asked Trinamool Congress member Mahua Moitra to appear before it on October 31 in connection with the cash-for-query allegations against her.

After a meeting of the panel on Thursday, its head and BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar also said they will seek assistance from the Ministries of Home Affairs and IT in probing the allegations against the TMC MP.

Moitra has been asked to appear before the panel on October 31, Sonkar said.

The panel on Thursday recorded statements of lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai and BJP leader Nishikant Dubey in connection with the matter.

In his complaint to Speaker Om Birla, BJP member Dubey has cited documents shared by Dehadrai to back his cash-for-query allegations against Moitra.

Birla had referred the matter to the Ethics Committee.

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NEW DELHI: The Ethics Committee of the Lok Sabha has asked Trinamool Congress member Mahua Moitra to appear before it on October 31 in connection with the cash-for-query allegations against her. After a meeting of the panel on Thursday, its head and BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar also said they will seek assistance from the Ministries of Home Affairs and IT in probing the allegations against the TMC MP. Moitra has been asked to appear before the panel on October 31, Sonkar said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The panel on Thursday recorded statements of lawyer Jai Anant Dehadrai and BJP leader Nishikant Dubey in connection with the matter. In his complaint to Speaker Om Birla, BJP member Dubey has cited documents shared by Dehadrai to back his cash-for-query allegations against Moitra. Birla had referred the matter to the Ethics Committee. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

GURUGRAM: A court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of cow vigilante and Bajrang Dal activist Monu Manesar by 14 days in connection with an attempted murder case, police said.

This extends the jail stay of Monu Manesar, who is also an accused in the Nuh violence and an abduction-murder case in Rajasthan.

He was granted bail in the Nuh violence case on October 16.

On Wednesday, the court of Pataudi Chief Judicial Magistrate Tarannum Khan sent Mohit Yadav alias Monu Manesar to another 14 days of judicial custody.

Due to security reasons, Manesar's hearing was held via video conferencing from the Bhondsi jail.

"In the case of murder attempt, registered at Pataudi police station, the hearing was held in Pataudi court today and the court extended his judicial custody for next 14 days. The next hearing will be on November 8," said Kulbhushan Bhardwaj, counsel of Manesar.

Bharadwaj said that the next hearing will also be held via video conferencing.

The attempted murder case is related to a brawl between two groups in Pataudi's Baba Shah Mohalla on February 6 when Manesar was there along with his group.

A complaint was filed by Mubin Khan, a resident of the same locality, who alleged his son was shot at during firing between two groups.

Police registered a murder case against Manesar at Pataudi police station on February 7.

Manesar was also arrested in connection with the abduction and killing of Nasir and Junaid whose charred bodies were found in a vehicle on the Rajasthan-Haryana border on February 16 after they were allegedly abducted by some vigilantes who accused them of cow smuggling.

Manesar was arrested from Gurugram's Manesar on September 12 in the Nuh violence case.

He was then handed over to Rajasthan Police after it obtained a transit remand for him from a court in Nuh last month.

Later, he was brought back to Gurugram from Rajasthan, and produced before a court in Pataudi which sent him to judicial custody in Bhondsi jail.

A religious procession led by the Vishva Hindu Parishad on July 31 was attacked by a mob in Nuh.

Six people were killed in the incident and the subsequent communal violence. A cleric was killed in an attack on a mosque in adjoining Gurugram.

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GURUGRAM: A court on Wednesday extended the judicial custody of cow vigilante and Bajrang Dal activist Monu Manesar by 14 days in connection with an attempted murder case, police said. This extends the jail stay of Monu Manesar, who is also an accused in the Nuh violence and an abduction-murder case in Rajasthan. He was granted bail in the Nuh violence case on October 16.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); On Wednesday, the court of Pataudi Chief Judicial Magistrate Tarannum Khan sent Mohit Yadav alias Monu Manesar to another 14 days of judicial custody. Due to security reasons, Manesar's hearing was held via video conferencing from the Bhondsi jail. "In the case of murder attempt, registered at Pataudi police station, the hearing was held in Pataudi court today and the court extended his judicial custody for next 14 days. The next hearing will be on November 8," said Kulbhushan Bhardwaj, counsel of Manesar. Bharadwaj said that the next hearing will also be held via video conferencing. The attempted murder case is related to a brawl between two groups in Pataudi's Baba Shah Mohalla on February 6 when Manesar was there along with his group. A complaint was filed by Mubin Khan, a resident of the same locality, who alleged his son was shot at during firing between two groups. Police registered a murder case against Manesar at Pataudi police station on February 7. Manesar was also arrested in connection with the abduction and killing of Nasir and Junaid whose charred bodies were found in a vehicle on the Rajasthan-Haryana border on February 16 after they were allegedly abducted by some vigilantes who accused them of cow smuggling. Manesar was arrested from Gurugram's Manesar on September 12 in the Nuh violence case. He was then handed over to Rajasthan Police after it obtained a transit remand for him from a court in Nuh last month. Later, he was brought back to Gurugram from Rajasthan, and produced before a court in Pataudi which sent him to judicial custody in Bhondsi jail. A religious procession led by the Vishva Hindu Parishad on July 31 was attacked by a mob in Nuh. Six people were killed in the incident and the subsequent communal violence. A cleric was killed in an attack on a mosque in adjoining Gurugram. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
RENO, Nev. (AP)  Firefighters remained on scene to snuff out hot spots Wednesday after a small brush fire on the edge of Reno quickly grew to 45 acres with gusty winds overnight, forcing evacuations and briefly closing Interstate 80 near the California-Nevada line before crews got the upper hand.

Winds of up to 30 mph exacerbated flames that threatened 40 to 60 homes in the Verdi area that were evacuated overnight as a precaution. But the interstate was reopened and residents were allowed to return to their homes before sunrise Wednesday, fire officials said.

There were no immediate reports of any injuries or structural damage. A temporary shelter that had been set up at the nearby Boomtown hotel-casino cleared out Wednesday morning.

The cause of the fire remained under investigation.

Multiple fire agencies responded to the blaze that broke out shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday and quickly spread in erratic conditions caused by the gusty winds, Truckee Meadows Fire and Rescue spokesperson Adam Mayberry said.

Battalion chief Adrian Villegas said crews did a good job of containing the flames and were being assisted by light rain moving into the area Wednesday morning as they snuffed out smoldering hot spots.

Winds were expected to pick up to 35 to 45 mph throughout the day and a lake wind advisory was in effect for area lakes including Lake Tahoe, where winds could create waves as high as 4 feet, the National Weather Service said.

Light snow was forecast to fall Wednesday evening in the mountains around the lake above elevations of 7,500 feet, the service said.
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A Qatari court on Thursday announced the death penalty for eight Indian naval veterans who have been in judicial custody for over 14 months.

The eight, all employees of Al Dahra company, were taken into custody in August last year in an alleged case of espionage.

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving 8 Indian employees of AI Dahra company, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team and we are exploring all legal options, MEA added.

India attaches high importance to this case and has been following it closely.

"We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, said the MEA.

"Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," the MEA added.

The eight veterans are Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor Ragesh.

They were picked up for questioning by Qatars Ministry of Interior on August 30, 2022 and then kept in solitary confinement before being charge sheeted (details of which have not yet been made public). The naval veterans were then clubbed and permitted to live on a twin sharing basis.

In October 2022, the Qatari authorities had asked the naval veterans to go back home and pack their bags to return to India, but by the time they returned with their bags there was a change of heart and they were sent back to their solitary confinement cells. The bags that these veterans had brought with them are in their possession in their cells.

The seventh hearing on the charges that have been levelled against officers was held on October 3. On October 1, Indias Ambassador in Doha and Deputy Head of Mission met the eight naval veterans. India has been providing legal assistance to the officers and says it will continue to seek justice for them.

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NEW DELHI: A Qatari court on Thursday announced the death penalty for eight Indian naval veterans who have been in judicial custody for over 14 months. The eight, all employees of Al Dahra company, were taken into custody in August last year in an alleged case of espionage. "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving 8 Indian employees of AI Dahra company, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team and we are exploring all legal options, MEA added. India attaches high importance to this case and has been following it closely. "We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, said the MEA. "Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," the MEA added. The eight veterans are Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta and Sailor Ragesh. They were picked up for questioning by Qatars Ministry of Interior on August 30, 2022 and then kept in solitary confinement before being charge sheeted (details of which have not yet been made public). The naval veterans were then clubbed and permitted to live on a twin sharing basis. In October 2022, the Qatari authorities had asked the naval veterans to go back home and pack their bags to return to India, but by the time they returned with their bags there was a change of heart and they were sent back to their solitary confinement cells. The bags that these veterans had brought with them are in their possession in their cells. The seventh hearing on the charges that have been levelled against officers was held on October 3. On October 1, Indias Ambassador in Doha and Deputy Head of Mission met the eight naval veterans. India has been providing legal assistance to the officers and says it will continue to seek justice for them. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

BISHKEK: India on Thursday said that the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation, in an apparent dig at China.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the remarks here in his address to the 22nd session of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO, which was attended by representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Iran, China, Russia, Tajikistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

"SCO should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation," he said.

In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian states plays a key role, he said, adding that India is keen to partner with member states for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions as it strives to improve trade within the region.

"We need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey. At the same time, connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," he added.

Beijing is investing billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan. India has protested to China over the economic corridor - the flagship project of the BRI - as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Jaishankar said India shares deep civilisational ties with the people of the SCO region.

Currently, the SCO countries include India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

"The continuous movement of goods, ideas and people traversing the region has left indelible imprints on our customs, traditions, language and cuisine. These historical relationships should now create a template for greater economic cooperation," he said.

"To improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. Such initiatives should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," he said.

"The Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives," Jaishankar said, in another jibe at China, which is accused of launching unviable infrastructure projects in countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan, saddling those countries with debts.

At the same time, Jaishankar said that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.

The International North-South Transport Corridor is a 7,200-km long multi-mode network of ship, rail, and road routes for moving freight between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

The Global South refers to countries often characterised as developing, less developed, or underdeveloped, primarily located in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Beijing was the lender of choice for many nations over the past decade. Many borrowed heavily from China. There have been global concerns over debt traps and regional hegemony by China using its ambitious BRI infrastructure projects.

China is doling out huge sums of money for infrastructure projects in countries from Asia to Africa and Europe. The US' previous Donald Trump administration had been extremely critical of the BRI and was of the view that China's "predatory financing" is leaving smaller countries under huge debt endangering their sovereignty.

During its SCO presidency, Jaishankar said, India focused on five new verticals of cooperation- Startups and Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Science and Technology, Youth Empowerment and Shared Buddhist Heritage. The response received highlighted the relevance of the chosen themes.

"We adopted a Statement on Cooperation in Digital Transformation and we have also institutionalized a Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation. India is also hosting SCO Startup Forum on a regular basis," he said.

He said that the world is facing challenges of a looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity and this calls for closer cooperation within the SCO in this context.

Noting that climate change is one of the serious challenges facing humanity, he said India has pioneered along with partners Global Initiatives contributing to climate action.

"This includes the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient infrastructure, the infrastructure for resilient island states and the leadership group on industry transition," he added.

"India has also launched mission life to bring individual behavioural change to the forefront of global climate action. With a narrative defined by mindful and deliberate utilisation of resources, we have only earth with one shared future therefore we hope that the fight against climate change will unite the world as one family," he added.

He said India was committed to tackling the challenge of energy security.

"We ranked fourth in wind, energy and solar energy. Our government has taken various measures to increase the use of alternate fuel through the National Hydrogen Mission. We are moving towards an environmentally friendly energy source. It will help India and all our partners to achieve the goal of net zero carbon emissions," he said.

Underlining that food security continues to be a challenge in many parts of the world, he said India believes in harnessing the power of millets as one possible means to ensure global food security.

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BISHKEK: India on Thursday said that the members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation, in an apparent dig at China. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the remarks here in his address to the 22nd session of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO, which was attended by representatives from Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Iran, China, Russia, Tajikistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan. "SCO should work together to promote stability and prosperity in the region by strictly adhering to the principles of international law, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of each other and encouraging economic cooperation," he said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); In this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian states plays a key role, he said, adding that India is keen to partner with member states for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions as it strives to improve trade within the region. "We need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey. At the same time, connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," he added. Beijing is investing billions of dollars in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in Pakistan. India has protested to China over the economic corridor - the flagship project of the BRI - as it is being laid through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Jaishankar said India shares deep civilisational ties with the people of the SCO region. Currently, the SCO countries include India, Iran, Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyz Republic, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. "The continuous movement of goods, ideas and people traversing the region has left indelible imprints on our customs, traditions, language and cuisine. These historical relationships should now create a template for greater economic cooperation," he said. "To improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. Such initiatives should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," he said. "The Global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives," Jaishankar said, in another jibe at China, which is accused of launching unviable infrastructure projects in countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan, saddling those countries with debts. At the same time, Jaishankar said that the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) could become enablers in bringing economic prosperity to the region. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September. The International North-South Transport Corridor is a 7,200-km long multi-mode network of ship, rail, and road routes for moving freight between India, Iran, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe. The Global South refers to countries often characterised as developing, less developed, or underdeveloped, primarily located in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Beijing was the lender of choice for many nations over the past decade. Many borrowed heavily from China. There have been global concerns over debt traps and regional hegemony by China using its ambitious BRI infrastructure projects. China is doling out huge sums of money for infrastructure projects in countries from Asia to Africa and Europe. The US' previous Donald Trump administration had been extremely critical of the BRI and was of the view that China's "predatory financing" is leaving smaller countries under huge debt endangering their sovereignty. During its SCO presidency, Jaishankar said, India focused on five new verticals of cooperation- Startups and Innovation, Traditional Medicine, Science and Technology, Youth Empowerment and Shared Buddhist Heritage. The response received highlighted the relevance of the chosen themes. "We adopted a Statement on Cooperation in Digital Transformation and we have also institutionalized a Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation. India is also hosting SCO Startup Forum on a regular basis," he said. He said that the world is facing challenges of a looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity and this calls for closer cooperation within the SCO in this context. Noting that climate change is one of the serious challenges facing humanity, he said India has pioneered along with partners Global Initiatives contributing to climate action. "This includes the International Solar Alliance, the Coalition for Disaster Resilient infrastructure, the infrastructure for resilient island states and the leadership group on industry transition," he added. "India has also launched mission life to bring individual behavioural change to the forefront of global climate action. With a narrative defined by mindful and deliberate utilisation of resources, we have only earth with one shared future therefore we hope that the fight against climate change will unite the world as one family," he added. He said India was committed to tackling the challenge of energy security. "We ranked fourth in wind, energy and solar energy. Our government has taken various measures to increase the use of alternate fuel through the National Hydrogen Mission. We are moving towards an environmentally friendly energy source. It will help India and all our partners to achieve the goal of net zero carbon emissions," he said. Underlining that food security continues to be a challenge in many parts of the world, he said India believes in harnessing the power of millets as one possible means to ensure global food security. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

JAIPUR: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering investigation into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state, official sources said.

The premises of Dotasra, a former minister for school education, in Sikar and Jaipur apart from party candidate from Mahua seat in Dausa, Omprakash Hudla, and some others are being searched, they said.

Elections for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held on November 25.

Dotasra is the party candidate from the Lacchmangarh seat of Sikar against BJP's Subhash Maharia.

He is also the sitting MLA from this seat.

Former RPSC member Babulal Katara and another person identified as Anil Kumar Meena were arrested by the ED in this case.

It had first raided multiple locations in Rajasthan as part of this investigation in June.

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JAIPUR: The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering investigation into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state, official sources said. The premises of Dotasra, a former minister for school education, in Sikar and Jaipur apart from party candidate from Mahua seat in Dausa, Omprakash Hudla, and some others are being searched, they said. Elections for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held on November 25.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Dotasra is the party candidate from the Lacchmangarh seat of Sikar against BJP's Subhash Maharia. He is also the sitting MLA from this seat. Former RPSC member Babulal Katara and another person identified as Anil Kumar Meena were arrested by the ED in this case. It had first raided multiple locations in Rajasthan as part of this investigation in June. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

JAIPUR: The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law, official sources said on Thursday.

Vaibhav Gehlot has been asked to depose before the federal agency's office either in Jaipur or in New Delhi on Friday, they said.

The summons are linked to the recent ED raids against Rajasthan-based hospitality group Triton Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd, Vardha Enterprises Pvt Ltd and its directors and promoters Shiv Shankar Sharma, Rattan Kant Sharma and others.

The agency had searched the group and its promoters for three days in August at locations in Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Delhi.

Rattan Kant Sharma's alleged links with Vaibhav Gehlot are allegedly under the scanner of the ED and it is expected to question and record his statement under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Unaccounted cash of Rs 1. 2 crore was seized by the ED after these searches.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

JAIPUR: The Enforcement Directorate has summoned Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law, official sources said on Thursday. Vaibhav Gehlot has been asked to depose before the federal agency's office either in Jaipur or in New Delhi on Friday, they said. The summons are linked to the recent ED raids against Rajasthan-based hospitality group Triton Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd, Vardha Enterprises Pvt Ltd and its directors and promoters Shiv Shankar Sharma, Rattan Kant Sharma and others.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The agency had searched the group and its promoters for three days in August at locations in Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Delhi. Rattan Kant Sharma's alleged links with Vaibhav Gehlot are allegedly under the scanner of the ED and it is expected to question and record his statement under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Unaccounted cash of Rs 1. 2 crore was seized by the ED after these searches. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By AFP

BRUSSELS: EU leaders will on Thursday debate calling for humanitarian "pauses" in Israel's war with Hamas, as the bloc weighs how to respond to another conflict as fighting rages in Ukraine.

The European Union has struggled for both unity and influence in the face of the crisis that has engulfed the Middle East since Hamas launched its attack on Israel on October 7.

The surge in bloodshed has stretched Europe's attention at a time of rising doubts about the West's ability to keep supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia.

The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

There has been strong condemnation of the Hamas attack that Israel says killed at least 1,400 people and resulted in more than 200 being taken hostage.

But there has been less consensus on urging any halt to Israel's retaliatory bombardment of Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says has killed over 6,500 people.

After days of negotiations, the latest draft statement for the summit, seen by AFP, calls for "humanitarian corridors and pauses".

That was updated from an earlier draft that had the formulation "a humanitarian pause" so that aid can reach civilians in Gaza.

That statement -- which could still change when leaders meet in Brussels -- falls short of demands from the United Nations for a "ceasefire".

READ LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE

Germany, wary of urging a more definitive halt that could tie Israel's hands, had argued for the call to be humanitarian "windows" or "pauses" in the plural.

"Letters, commas, language matter, and that's how you find agreements," said a senior EU official.

But diplomats from some EU nations warn that delays over finding the right words as the death toll mounts are hitting the bloc's global standing and leaving it flailing in the face of developments.

The summit was taking place after Israel said it sent tanks and infantry into Gaza on an overnight raid before pulling back to home soil. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared preparations for a ground war are underway.

Ukraine overshadowed?

The eruption of violence in the Middle East has sparked fears the West could get distracted from Russia's war on Ukraine 20 months into the invasion.

The fresh crisis comes at a moment when turmoil in the US Congress has raised questions about the sustainability of Washington's military aid.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz vowed Tuesday that "support will in no way be impacted by the fact that we of course since the horrible morning hours of October 7 have focused on Israel and the Middle East".

Chief among EU measures meant to reassure Kyiv is a plan -- earlier estimated at 20 billion euros ($21 billion) over four years -- for a defence fund for Ukraine as part of broader Western security commitments.

Diplomats say progress has been held up by Hungary, Russia's closest ally in the bloc, and leaders are set to task the bloc's foreign policy chief to report back on the issue in December.

There will also be calls to impose new sanctions on Moscow that could include banning Russian diamond imports once the G7 agrees on a way of tracing them.

In addition, a plan for using the revenues from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine will be discussed.

Looming over the discussion on Ukraine will be the country's next steps in its push to join the EU.

The bloc's executive arm is to give an assessment on November 8 on whether to open formal accession talks with Kyiv.

Then it will be up to EU leaders to decide whether to adopt any recommendations by the end of the year.

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BRUSSELS: EU leaders will on Thursday debate calling for humanitarian "pauses" in Israel's war with Hamas, as the bloc weighs how to respond to another conflict as fighting rages in Ukraine. The European Union has struggled for both unity and influence in the face of the crisis that has engulfed the Middle East since Hamas launched its attack on Israel on October 7. The surge in bloodshed has stretched Europe's attention at a time of rising doubts about the West's ability to keep supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russia.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria. There has been strong condemnation of the Hamas attack that Israel says killed at least 1,400 people and resulted in more than 200 being taken hostage. But there has been less consensus on urging any halt to Israel's retaliatory bombardment of Gaza, which the Hamas-run health ministry says has killed over 6,500 people. After days of negotiations, the latest draft statement for the summit, seen by AFP, calls for "humanitarian corridors and pauses". That was updated from an earlier draft that had the formulation "a humanitarian pause" so that aid can reach civilians in Gaza. That statement -- which could still change when leaders meet in Brussels -- falls short of demands from the United Nations for a "ceasefire". READ LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE Germany, wary of urging a more definitive halt that could tie Israel's hands, had argued for the call to be humanitarian "windows" or "pauses" in the plural. "Letters, commas, language matter, and that's how you find agreements," said a senior EU official. But diplomats from some EU nations warn that delays over finding the right words as the death toll mounts are hitting the bloc's global standing and leaving it flailing in the face of developments. The summit was taking place after Israel said it sent tanks and infantry into Gaza on an overnight raid before pulling back to home soil. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared preparations for a ground war are underway. Ukraine overshadowed? The eruption of violence in the Middle East has sparked fears the West could get distracted from Russia's war on Ukraine 20 months into the invasion. The fresh crisis comes at a moment when turmoil in the US Congress has raised questions about the sustainability of Washington's military aid. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz vowed Tuesday that "support will in no way be impacted by the fact that we of course since the horrible morning hours of October 7 have focused on Israel and the Middle East". Chief among EU measures meant to reassure Kyiv is a plan -- earlier estimated at 20 billion euros ($21 billion) over four years -- for a defence fund for Ukraine as part of broader Western security commitments. Diplomats say progress has been held up by Hungary, Russia's closest ally in the bloc, and leaders are set to task the bloc's foreign policy chief to report back on the issue in December. There will also be calls to impose new sanctions on Moscow that could include banning Russian diamond imports once the G7 agrees on a way of tracing them. In addition, a plan for using the revenues from frozen Russian assets to aid Ukraine will be discussed. Looming over the discussion on Ukraine will be the country's next steps in its push to join the EU. The bloc's executive arm is to give an assessment on November 8 on whether to open formal accession talks with Kyiv. Then it will be up to EU leaders to decide whether to adopt any recommendations by the end of the year. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Israel wants India to declare Hamas as a terrorist organisation, the countrys ambassador to India Naor Gilon said on Wednesday. We have communicated this to India. We are in dialogue with the government, its a friendly talk, Gilon added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the October 7 attack on Israel. While India hit out at Hamas for the terror act, it later clarified that no alternative to the two-state solution can bring peace to the region.

As the conflict entered the 19th day, Israel is gearing up for a protracted war with Hamas. It is constantly hitting potential Hamas targets in Gaza while the ground offensive has been delayed due to tactical and strategic considerations.

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Lt Col Peter Lerner said on Wednesday that the objective is to destroy Hamas. A vast majority of areas are safe in Israel, but Hamas may try and infiltrate. So, we will have to destroy Hamas in its entirety, he said. Israel has roped in 3 lakh reservists for the ongoing war. The IDFs priority is to locate and bring back the 222 hostages who have been held captive by Hamas. Four hostages have been released so far.

On Wednesday, Israels Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, said that they would deny visas to UN officials after a remark by Secretary General Antonio Guterres appeared to justify the Hamas attack.

Meanwhile, Gaza is running out of fuel and other essential items. Hospitals are low on fuel, which means if not replenished soon, there would be no scope for survival of patients in intensive care units.

Hezbollah huddle with Hamas, Islamic Jihad

Senior officials of Hamas and Islamic Jihad have held talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the Lebanese group said on Wednesday. The talks focused on achieving real victory against Israel. Hezbollah and the Palestinian groups agreed to coordinate

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: Israel wants India to declare Hamas as a terrorist organisation, the countrys ambassador to India Naor Gilon said on Wednesday. We have communicated this to India. We are in dialogue with the government, its a friendly talk, Gilon added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to condemn the October 7 attack on Israel. While India hit out at Hamas for the terror act, it later clarified that no alternative to the two-state solution can bring peace to the region. As the conflict entered the 19th day, Israel is gearing up for a protracted war with Hamas. It is constantly hitting potential Hamas targets in Gaza while the ground offensive has been delayed due to tactical and strategic considerations. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesperson Lt Col Peter Lerner said on Wednesday that the objective is to destroy Hamas. A vast majority of areas are safe in Israel, but Hamas may try and infiltrate. So, we will have to destroy Hamas in its entirety, he said. Israel has roped in 3 lakh reservists for the ongoing war. The IDFs priority is to locate and bring back the 222 hostages who have been held captive by Hamas. Four hostages have been released so far. On Wednesday, Israels Ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, said that they would deny visas to UN officials after a remark by Secretary General Antonio Guterres appeared to justify the Hamas attack. Meanwhile, Gaza is running out of fuel and other essential items. Hospitals are low on fuel, which means if not replenished soon, there would be no scope for survival of patients in intensive care units. Hezbollah huddle with Hamas, Islamic Jihad Senior officials of Hamas and Islamic Jihad have held talks with Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, the Lebanese group said on Wednesday. The talks focused on achieving real victory against Israel. Hezbollah and the Palestinian groups agreed to coordinate Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Ramashankar By

Express News Service

PATNA: With the Opposition bloc INDIA yet to resolve the contentious issue of deciding its Prime Ministerial face for the 2024 Lok Sabha election, RJD chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on Thursday heaped praise on former Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his adherence to the principle of social justice.

Speaking on the occasion of Bihar's first chief minister Sri Krishna Singh's birth anniversary at the Congress headquarters here, Lalu said, "We have kept the flag of social justice high and so Rahul is also doing."

He also praised Rahul for announcing that a caste-based survey would be conducted in the entire country if the 'INDIA' alliance is voted to power at the centre in 2024. The RJD president also contended that the Prime Ministerial candidate for the 'INDIA' alliance would be decided without any difficulty.

Incidentally, Lalu did not talk about alliance partner and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar a single time when he was applauding Rahul for his 'adherence' to the principle of social justice and his announcement for the caste-based survey.

Lalu said that the BJP was desperate after the release of the caste-based survey and questioned how it was possible for any caste having a population of one per cent to demand more posts. The RJD supremo claimed that power would be "shared in proportion" to the population of various castes and that the BJP would be moved out of power.

This was Lalu's first visit to the Congress headquarters 'Sadaqat Ashram' after six years. Congress leaders said that the last time Lalu had visited Sadaquat Ashram was in 2017.

"We are working together and we are going to organise a 'Remove BJP, Save Country' rally in the state capital. The wave of change will emanating from there and it will sweep the entire country as BJP is set to suffer a crushing defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha election," Lalu said.

He claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and RSS would not be able to do anything in the election.

Lalu also claimed that the BJP knew well it would lose in assembly elections across the five states to be held in November and would also suffer defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He contended that it was the reason central agencies like ED, CBI and the Income Tax department were conducting raids on the premises of opposition leaders and lodging cases against them.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

PATNA: With the Opposition bloc INDIA yet to resolve the contentious issue of deciding its Prime Ministerial face for the 2024 Lok Sabha election, RJD chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav on Thursday heaped praise on former Congress president Rahul Gandhi for his adherence to the principle of social justice. Speaking on the occasion of Bihar's first chief minister Sri Krishna Singh's birth anniversary at the Congress headquarters here, Lalu said, "We have kept the flag of social justice high and so Rahul is also doing." He also praised Rahul for announcing that a caste-based survey would be conducted in the entire country if the 'INDIA' alliance is voted to power at the centre in 2024. The RJD president also contended that the Prime Ministerial candidate for the 'INDIA' alliance would be decided without any difficulty.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Incidentally, Lalu did not talk about alliance partner and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar a single time when he was applauding Rahul for his 'adherence' to the principle of social justice and his announcement for the caste-based survey. Lalu said that the BJP was desperate after the release of the caste-based survey and questioned how it was possible for any caste having a population of one per cent to demand more posts. The RJD supremo claimed that power would be "shared in proportion" to the population of various castes and that the BJP would be moved out of power. This was Lalu's first visit to the Congress headquarters 'Sadaqat Ashram' after six years. Congress leaders said that the last time Lalu had visited Sadaquat Ashram was in 2017. "We are working together and we are going to organise a 'Remove BJP, Save Country' rally in the state capital. The wave of change will emanating from there and it will sweep the entire country as BJP is set to suffer a crushing defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha election," Lalu said. He claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and RSS would not be able to do anything in the election. Lalu also claimed that the BJP knew well it would lose in assembly elections across the five states to be held in November and would also suffer defeat in the 2024 Lok Sabha election. He contended that it was the reason central agencies like ED, CBI and the Income Tax department were conducting raids on the premises of opposition leaders and lodging cases against them. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Mayank Singh By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: At a time when India has tensions along the Line of Actual Control with China, India's Army chief on Thursday reiterated the significance of land as a key domain of warfare.

General Manoj Pande said, "One of the key lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, I think, is that land will continue to be a key domain of warfare. Especially when there are contested borders like in our context."

He added, "The jointness and integration that we wish to or must achieve with the other services and other stakeholders are as important. But in my view, the land domain is going to be extremely important."

Commenting on the tensions in eastern Ladakh, he said that the last one year had been challenging but the situation at the borders is stable.

General Pande was speaking at the curtain raiser to the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023. The event is being organised by the Indian Army in partnership with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). The first edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue will be held on November 3-4 in Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.

This event will carry out a comprehensive analysis of security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific. It will focus on crafting a roadmap for collaborative security measures to fortify India's position as a ready, resurgent and relevant stakeholder among the nations of this region.

The platform aspires to meticulously analyse the multifaceted security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific and define a roadmap for collective security within the region.

Commenting on the operational situation, General Pande said, "The last year has been challenging yet satisfying. As far as the operational situation is concerned, it is stable and we have dealt with internal security challenges the way we are supposed to deal with them."

Highlighting the significance of self-reliance or Atmanirbharta, General Pande mentioned that recent conflicts reveal that security of the nation can neither be outsourced nor be dependent on the largesse of others. He noted that the Indian Army has been closely working with 340 indigenous defence industries towards fructification of 230 contracts by 2025.

"We are putting significant focus to leverage infusion of modern technology in the Army," he said, adding that technology is the new strategic arena of geo-political competition.

The COAS mentioned that the Indian Army has identified 45 niche technologies in the field of military applications. Underlining the importance accorded to niche technologies, the COAS highlighted that Centres of Excellence have been established by the Indian Army including 5G Test Bed, Artificial Laboratory and Quantum Laboratory.

ALSO READ | Officer shortfall: Army's top brass discuss making Short Service Commission more attractive

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NEW DELHI: At a time when India has tensions along the Line of Actual Control with China, India's Army chief on Thursday reiterated the significance of land as a key domain of warfare. General Manoj Pande said, "One of the key lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, I think, is that land will continue to be a key domain of warfare. Especially when there are contested borders like in our context." He added, "The jointness and integration that we wish to or must achieve with the other services and other stakeholders are as important. But in my view, the land domain is going to be extremely important."googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Commenting on the tensions in eastern Ladakh, he said that the last one year had been challenging but the situation at the borders is stable. General Pande was speaking at the curtain raiser to the Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2023. The event is being organised by the Indian Army in partnership with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). The first edition of the Chanakya Defence Dialogue will be held on November 3-4 in Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. This event will carry out a comprehensive analysis of security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific. It will focus on crafting a roadmap for collaborative security measures to fortify India's position as a ready, resurgent and relevant stakeholder among the nations of this region. The platform aspires to meticulously analyse the multifaceted security challenges in South Asia and the Indo-Pacific and define a roadmap for collective security within the region. Commenting on the operational situation, General Pande said, "The last year has been challenging yet satisfying. As far as the operational situation is concerned, it is stable and we have dealt with internal security challenges the way we are supposed to deal with them." Highlighting the significance of self-reliance or Atmanirbharta, General Pande mentioned that recent conflicts reveal that security of the nation can neither be outsourced nor be dependent on the largesse of others. He noted that the Indian Army has been closely working with 340 indigenous defence industries towards fructification of 230 contracts by 2025. "We are putting significant focus to leverage infusion of modern technology in the Army," he said, adding that technology is the new strategic arena of geo-political competition. The COAS mentioned that the Indian Army has identified 45 niche technologies in the field of military applications. Underlining the importance accorded to niche technologies, the COAS highlighted that Centres of Excellence have been established by the Indian Army including 5G Test Bed, Artificial Laboratory and Quantum Laboratory. ALSO READ | Officer shortfall: Army's top brass discuss making Short Service Commission more attractive Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Associated Press

BEIRUT: Soldiers and volunteers on Thursday were battling a blaze on Lebanon's southern border caused by Israeli bombing overnight, local officials said, as Israel and Hezbollah exchange near-daily cross-border fire.

Since Palestinian militant group Hamas carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, Lebanon's southern border has seen tit-for-tat exchanges between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, a Hamas ally.

The Mayor of the border village of Alma al-Shaab, Jean Ghafari, said the fire broke out after an Israeli bombing late Wednesday.

"The blaze reached the edges of the village after midnight" and is still burning, he told AFP, adding that it "has come close to houses".

Security forces, civil defence personnel, United Nations peacekeepers and volunteers were battling the blaze but "have been unable to completely control it because of strong winds", Ghafari added.

The municipality said some 70 per cent of the village's population had fled due to Israeli attacks.

An AFP photographer saw fire near houses on the outskirts of Alma al-Shaab and burnt olive trees, with the blaze mainly concentrated between the village and the coastal city of Naqura.

"Overnight (Israeli) bombing with phosphorus led to the fire, which has affected a broad forested area and spread due to the high winds," Naqura mayor Abbas Awada told AFP in a statement.

In recent weeks, Lebanon's official National News Agency and Lebanese paramedics have reported fires and injuries due to white phosphorus, while Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using the incendiary weapon in its war against Hamas militants in Gaza, and in southern Lebanon.

Israel has denied the allegations.

READ THE LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE

Parliament speaker Nabih Berri, whose party is allied with Hezbollah, on Thursday condemned Israel's use of "phosphorus bombs" along Lebanon's border and blamed "the international community" for the blazes, alluding to Western military support for Israel.

Hama's shock attack saw gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping more than 220, according to Israeli officials.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000, also mainly civilians.

Exchanges of fire across the Lebanon-Israel border have since killed at least 57 people in Lebanon, according to an AFP tally, mostly Hezbollah combatants but also four civilians, including Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah.

Four people have been killed on the Israeli side, including one civilian.

Phosphorus, a substance that catches fire in contact with the air, is used to create smokescreens to hide troop movements, illuminate the battlefield or destroy buildings by fire.

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BEIRUT: Soldiers and volunteers on Thursday were battling a blaze on Lebanon's southern border caused by Israeli bombing overnight, local officials said, as Israel and Hezbollah exchange near-daily cross-border fire. Since Palestinian militant group Hamas carried out an unprecedented attack on Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, Lebanon's southern border has seen tit-for-tat exchanges between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, a Hamas ally. The Mayor of the border village of Alma al-Shaab, Jean Ghafari, said the fire broke out after an Israeli bombing late Wednesday.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "The blaze reached the edges of the village after midnight" and is still burning, he told AFP, adding that it "has come close to houses". Security forces, civil defence personnel, United Nations peacekeepers and volunteers were battling the blaze but "have been unable to completely control it because of strong winds", Ghafari added. The municipality said some 70 per cent of the village's population had fled due to Israeli attacks. An AFP photographer saw fire near houses on the outskirts of Alma al-Shaab and burnt olive trees, with the blaze mainly concentrated between the village and the coastal city of Naqura. "Overnight (Israeli) bombing with phosphorus led to the fire, which has affected a broad forested area and spread due to the high winds," Naqura mayor Abbas Awada told AFP in a statement. In recent weeks, Lebanon's official National News Agency and Lebanese paramedics have reported fires and injuries due to white phosphorus, while Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using the incendiary weapon in its war against Hamas militants in Gaza, and in southern Lebanon. Israel has denied the allegations. READ THE LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE Parliament speaker Nabih Berri, whose party is allied with Hezbollah, on Thursday condemned Israel's use of "phosphorus bombs" along Lebanon's border and blamed "the international community" for the blazes, alluding to Western military support for Israel. Hama's shock attack saw gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping more than 220, according to Israeli officials. Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000, also mainly civilians. Exchanges of fire across the Lebanon-Israel border have since killed at least 57 people in Lebanon, according to an AFP tally, mostly Hezbollah combatants but also four civilians, including Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah. Four people have been killed on the Israeli side, including one civilian. Phosphorus, a substance that catches fire in contact with the air, is used to create smokescreens to hide troop movements, illuminate the battlefield or destroy buildings by fire. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Anna Mariam Ittyerah By

Online Desk

Marriages are made in heaven they say but unfortunately many married couples go through hell.

One such case involving Varun Gopal and Shilpi Shrivastava has just been decided -- in the wife's favour. In this case, the Supreme Court has directed the Registrar of the Delhi High Court to sell six shops in a building complex belonging to Varuns father and deposit the money in a fixed deposit to pay maintenance to his wife Shilpi.

The directive came after Shilpi, a native of Chhattisgarh, approached the court seeking nearly Rs 1.25 crore in arrears from her husband, who separated from her around eight years ago after a two-year marriage. Varun married again in Australia after getting an ex-parte divorce in that country. He has two kids from his second marriage.

Two years after the split, the woman won monthly maintenance of Rs 1 lakh from her husband from a family court in Bilaspur.

She also later started criminal proceedings related to cheating against her husband and his family, prompting Varun to file for anticipatory bail. When anticipatory bail was denied to the husband, he refused to attend hearings about maintenance payments in India.

However, Varuns father Mohan Gopal was arrested in connection with the criminal proceedings initiated by Shilpa and spent ten months in jail in 2018-19.

The next year, she got the Chhattisgarh High Court to raise the maintenance amount to Rs 1.27 lakh, arguing that Varun was earning Rs 4.25 lakh per month and that she deserved 30% of it.

She successfully argued that the sum of Rs 1 lakh a month was not befitting to the status, the respondent had enjoyed, when she was living with the applicant [husband].

The case again reached the Supreme Court when the wife could not obtain the maintenance of Rs 1.27 lakh per month and the arrears.

The wife asked the Supreme Court to transfer several of the shops owned by the father-in-law to her name so that she can live off the rent generated by them.

She argued that if she had got Rs 1.25 crore as arrears of her maintenance, she could have got Rs 60,000-65,000 per month as an interest and a rent of Rs 55,000 from the gym located on the first floor of the father-in-laws building.

The wife also pointed out that her in-laws and husband had gone back on his word to transfer to her Rs 1.29 crore as arrears.

During the hearing in the Supreme Court, the father-in-law argued that he was not responsible to pay maintenance to his sons wife, and that a previous settlement was signed with his wife (the mother in law), and not with him.

..the maintenance order [was obtained] only against her husband which can be recovered from the husband or from his assets. The [father-in-law] is not personally liable to [his wife] when her husband is alive, he argued.

However, Justices S Ravindra Bhat and Aravind Kumar would have none of it.

The present case  as discussed earlier, has displayed persistent defiant conduct by Varun Gopal, and the petitioner, Mohan Gopal, who have, through one pretext or another stalled compliance with the orders of this court. It is the responsibility of the petitioner and Varun Gopal who are held liable to fulfil the payment of entire sum, they said.

Meanwhile, there are some who have taken objection to the way the courts meted out justice to the woman.

"While given the facts of the case, this judgment by Supreme Court seems fair but it sets a wrong precedent of allowing attachment of property belonging to in-laws in settlement of matrimonial disputes," said Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj, a journalist and film-maker who has studied criminal cases arising out of matrimonial disputes extensively.

She pointed out that the marriage lasted only for 2 years, and that the litigation has been going on for several years.

"An educated woman is claiming she is dependent on her widowed mother. There is no child born out of wedlock. So the question is if such high amount of maintenance is justified," she said.

At the same time, Bhardwaj said that, from the judgment, it looks like the husband and his family have defied several orders and a previous settlement made to wife.

"So the Court has used it's supreme powers to grant remedy. The question, however, remains if such arrangements are justified by law and also, can the courts start punishing parents of a man if his marriage fails," she said.

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Marriages are made in heaven they say but unfortunately many married couples go through hell. One such case involving Varun Gopal and Shilpi Shrivastava has just been decided -- in the wife's favour. In this case, the Supreme Court has directed the Registrar of the Delhi High Court to sell six shops in a building complex belonging to Varuns father and deposit the money in a fixed deposit to pay maintenance to his wife Shilpi.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The directive came after Shilpi, a native of Chhattisgarh, approached the court seeking nearly Rs 1.25 crore in arrears from her husband, who separated from her around eight years ago after a two-year marriage. Varun married again in Australia after getting an ex-parte divorce in that country. He has two kids from his second marriage. Two years after the split, the woman won monthly maintenance of Rs 1 lakh from her husband from a family court in Bilaspur. She also later started criminal proceedings related to cheating against her husband and his family, prompting Varun to file for anticipatory bail. When anticipatory bail was denied to the husband, he refused to attend hearings about maintenance payments in India. However, Varuns father Mohan Gopal was arrested in connection with the criminal proceedings initiated by Shilpa and spent ten months in jail in 2018-19. The next year, she got the Chhattisgarh High Court to raise the maintenance amount to Rs 1.27 lakh, arguing that Varun was earning Rs 4.25 lakh per month and that she deserved 30% of it. She successfully argued that the sum of Rs 1 lakh a month was not befitting to the status, the respondent had enjoyed, when she was living with the applicant [husband]. The case again reached the Supreme Court when the wife could not obtain the maintenance of Rs 1.27 lakh per month and the arrears. The wife asked the Supreme Court to transfer several of the shops owned by the father-in-law to her name so that she can live off the rent generated by them. She argued that if she had got Rs 1.25 crore as arrears of her maintenance, she could have got Rs 60,000-65,000 per month as an interest and a rent of Rs 55,000 from the gym located on the first floor of the father-in-laws building. The wife also pointed out that her in-laws and husband had gone back on his word to transfer to her Rs 1.29 crore as arrears. During the hearing in the Supreme Court, the father-in-law argued that he was not responsible to pay maintenance to his sons wife, and that a previous settlement was signed with his wife (the mother in law), and not with him. ..the maintenance order [was obtained] only against her husband which can be recovered from the husband or from his assets. The [father-in-law] is not personally liable to [his wife] when her husband is alive, he argued. However, Justices S Ravindra Bhat and Aravind Kumar would have none of it. The present case  as discussed earlier, has displayed persistent defiant conduct by Varun Gopal, and the petitioner, Mohan Gopal, who have, through one pretext or another stalled compliance with the orders of this court. It is the responsibility of the petitioner and Varun Gopal who are held liable to fulfil the payment of entire sum, they said. Meanwhile, there are some who have taken objection to the way the courts meted out justice to the woman. "While given the facts of the case, this judgment by Supreme Court seems fair but it sets a wrong precedent of allowing attachment of property belonging to in-laws in settlement of matrimonial disputes," said Deepika Narayan Bhardwaj, a journalist and film-maker who has studied criminal cases arising out of matrimonial disputes extensively. She pointed out that the marriage lasted only for 2 years, and that the litigation has been going on for several years. "An educated woman is claiming she is dependent on her widowed mother. There is no child born out of wedlock. So the question is if such high amount of maintenance is justified," she said. At the same time, Bhardwaj said that, from the judgment, it looks like the husband and his family have defied several orders and a previous settlement made to wife. "So the Court has used it's supreme powers to grant remedy. The question, however, remains if such arrangements are justified by law and also, can the courts start punishing parents of a man if his marriage fails," she said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
A view of Tam Dao. (Photo: VNA)

Tam Dao resort in the northern mountainous province of Vinh Phuc topped the list with search traffic increasing by 279% over the same period last year.

Located only 80km from Hanoi, visitors can easily travel to the resort by car, bus, motorbike, or even mountain bike. Surrounded by mountainous scenery and many hotels and homestays, this beautiful resort has become a refreshing destination that attracts many people from Hanoi.

Bac Ninh, the northern spiritual heartland, recorded a 234% increase in search volume. Located only 40 km from Hanoi, Bac Ninh offers countless choices for tourists who love culture and art. The city is famous for its traditional festivals that take place throughout the year, often held on the grounds of or around pagodas and temples in the area.

Other destinations include Sam Son coastal city in the central province of Thanh Hoa, 228%; and Phu Quy - a small island off the coast of Binh Thuan province.

The coastal city of Quy Nhon with its romantic beaches and unique cuisine and Cat Ba Island in the northern city of Hai Phong are also included in the list.

Vu Ngoc Lam, Director of Agoda in Vietnam, said that Agoda wants to take advantage of this opportunity to introduce new places and find out what attracts those who love to explore destinations that few tourists have come to./.
Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday said that there is no difference between Bharat and India but in the minds of a few frustrated people there is a competition to dispute the concept of Bharat.

He said that both the names have been incorporated in the Indian Constitution.

There has been an ongoing controversy in the past few days over the name Bharat and India. There is no difference between India and Bharat. Bharat is the name of India, he said while inaugurating the western zone vice chancellors conference on the implementation of NEP 2020 in Gujarats Kevadiya in the Narmada district.

Both these names have been mentioned in our Indian Constitution. There has been mindless controversy by people who wish to create a ruckus, he said.

His remarks came after a panel set up for revising the NCERT social science textbooks recommended that India should be replaced with Bharat in all social science textbooks up to Class 12. The recommendation to change the name invited sharp criticism from the opposition.

Pradhan at the event further elaborated that during the colonial period, people who read English literature gave the country the name India and we in our Constitution have given significance to both Bharat and India.

Bharat is an Indian name; the original name. It has been so since the introduction of civilization but today, in the minds of a few frustrated and some small-minded people, there is a competition to dispute the concept and it is a small section of people, he added.

He further said Some Western experts who have mentioned science and technology have mentioned Indias thinking. (For example), Vadnagar is a very important village in this state. It is in this village that our beloved Prime Minister was born. Centuries ago, why did Hiuen Tsang come here? To understand what? This is the tradition of India.

Highlighting the importance of local languages, Pradhan said, Our languages have never been a hindrance in the development of civilization. All languages in India are national languages. Because of technology, there are no challenges. Skilling is another priority area. If we convert the samajik parampara (social traditions) of the Gujarat and Maharashtra models of job creation into academics, it will be one of the best practices, the minister said.

The seven-member panel had also suggested introducing classical history, instead of ancient history, in the curriculum and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects. The committee has also suggested highlighting Hindu victories in textbooks.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) issued a statement saying that the process of developing a curriculum is an ongoing process.

NCERT states that since the development of new syllabus and textbooks is in the process and for that purpose, various Curricular Area Groups of domain experts are being notified by the NCERT. So, it is too premature to comment on the news being flashed in the media on the concerned issue.

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NEW DELHI: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday said that there is no difference between Bharat and India but in the minds of a few frustrated people there is a competition to dispute the concept of Bharat. He said that both the names have been incorporated in the Indian Constitution. There has been an ongoing controversy in the past few days over the name Bharat and India. There is no difference between India and Bharat. Bharat is the name of India, he said while inaugurating the western zone vice chancellors conference on the implementation of NEP 2020 in Gujarats Kevadiya in the Narmada district.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Both these names have been mentioned in our Indian Constitution. There has been mindless controversy by people who wish to create a ruckus, he said. His remarks came after a panel set up for revising the NCERT social science textbooks recommended that India should be replaced with Bharat in all social science textbooks up to Class 12. The recommendation to change the name invited sharp criticism from the opposition. Pradhan at the event further elaborated that during the colonial period, people who read English literature gave the country the name India and we in our Constitution have given significance to both Bharat and India. Bharat is an Indian name; the original name. It has been so since the introduction of civilization but today, in the minds of a few frustrated and some small-minded people, there is a competition to dispute the concept and it is a small section of people, he added. He further said Some Western experts who have mentioned science and technology have mentioned Indias thinking. (For example), Vadnagar is a very important village in this state. It is in this village that our beloved Prime Minister was born. Centuries ago, why did Hiuen Tsang come here? To understand what? This is the tradition of India. Highlighting the importance of local languages, Pradhan said, Our languages have never been a hindrance in the development of civilization. All languages in India are national languages. Because of technology, there are no challenges. Skilling is another priority area. If we convert the samajik parampara (social traditions) of the Gujarat and Maharashtra models of job creation into academics, it will be one of the best practices, the minister said. The seven-member panel had also suggested introducing classical history, instead of ancient history, in the curriculum and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects. The committee has also suggested highlighting Hindu victories in textbooks. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) issued a statement saying that the process of developing a curriculum is an ongoing process. NCERT states that since the development of new syllabus and textbooks is in the process and for that purpose, various Curricular Area Groups of domain experts are being notified by the NCERT. So, it is too premature to comment on the news being flashed in the media on the concerned issue. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Associated Press

THE HAGUE: The Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister told reporters Thursday that he fully supports an International Criminal Court investigation into the Palestinian territories, and he called for a full cease-fire to bring humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

The court in The Hague investigates and prosecutes people for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Palestinian Foreign Affairs Minister Riyad al-Maliki met with Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan twice during a two-day visit to the Netherlands to drum up international support for an ICC investigation.

Asked by journalists if he would support the court looking into Hamas surprise Oct. 7 attacks in southern Israel, he said that the Palestinian Authority would not interfere with the investigation. We cannot say Investigate here, dont investigate there, al-Maliki said.

The international court launched an investigation in 2021 into alleged crimes in the Palestinian territories, focusing on military operations against Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip and the expansion of Jewish settlements in east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank.

Khan confirmed last week that his mandate would extend to Palestinians who carried out crimes against Israelis. The investigation was spurred by the last major conflict in Gaza but can analyze war crimes allegations from the current Israel-Hamas war.

READ THE LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE

Israel argues the ICC has no jurisdiction in the conflict because Palestine is not an independent sovereign state. Israel isnt a party to the treaty that underpins the international court and is not one of its 123 member states.

After his visit to court, al-Maliki said Israel was waging a war of revenge on Gaza that has violated international law. It has no real objective other than the total destruction of every livable place in Gaza, he said.

He urged world leaders to back a U.N. General Assembly resolution put forward by Arab nations that calls for a cease-fire to allow in humanitarian aid.

While in The Hague, the Palestinian delegation also made submissions to the International Court of Justice, which is considering the legality of Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem.

The U.N. General Assembly passed a resolution asking the U.N.s highest judicial body to give its opinion on the situation last year. Hearings in those proceedings are scheduled for February 2024.

The war is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides.

ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders

More than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel, mostly in the initial Hamas rampage. Israel has responded with a series of bombing strikes that, according to al-Maliki, have killed some 7,000 people and left more than 20,000 injured. He also accused Israel of focusing airstrikes on the southern part of Gaza after telling Palestinians living in the north to relocate.

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THE HAGUE: The Palestinian Authoritys foreign minister told reporters Thursday that he fully supports an International Criminal Court investigation into the Palestinian territories, and he called for a full cease-fire to bring humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The court in The Hague investigates and prosecutes people for war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity. Palestinian Foreign Affairs Minister Riyad al-Maliki met with Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan twice during a two-day visit to the Netherlands to drum up international support for an ICC investigation. Asked by journalists if he would support the court looking into Hamas surprise Oct. 7 attacks in southern Israel, he said that the Palestinian Authority would not interfere with the investigation. We cannot say Investigate here, dont investigate there, al-Maliki said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The international court launched an investigation in 2021 into alleged crimes in the Palestinian territories, focusing on military operations against Palestinian militants in the Gaza Strip and the expansion of Jewish settlements in east Jerusalem and the occupied West Bank. Khan confirmed last week that his mandate would extend to Palestinians who carried out crimes against Israelis. The investigation was spurred by the last major conflict in Gaza but can analyze war crimes allegations from the current Israel-Hamas war. READ THE LIVE UPDATES OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE Israel argues the ICC has no jurisdiction in the conflict because Palestine is not an independent sovereign state. Israel isnt a party to the treaty that underpins the international court and is not one of its 123 member states. After his visit to court, al-Maliki said Israel was waging a war of revenge on Gaza that has violated international law. It has no real objective other than the total destruction of every livable place in Gaza, he said. He urged world leaders to back a U.N. General Assembly resolution put forward by Arab nations that calls for a cease-fire to allow in humanitarian aid. While in The Hague, the Palestinian delegation also made submissions to the International Court of Justice, which is considering the legality of Israeli policies in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. The U.N. General Assembly passed a resolution asking the U.N.s highest judicial body to give its opinion on the situation last year. Hearings in those proceedings are scheduled for February 2024. The war is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders More than 1,400 people have been killed in Israel, mostly in the initial Hamas rampage. Israel has responded with a series of bombing strikes that, according to al-Maliki, have killed some 7,000 people and left more than 20,000 injured. He also accused Israel of focusing airstrikes on the southern part of Gaza after telling Palestinians living in the north to relocate. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

NEW DELHI: Slamming the Centre over the ED's action against its leaders in poll-bound Rajasthan, the Congress on Thursday alleged that faced with the prospect of "certain defeat", Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resorted to tactics of "FDI - fear, deception and intimidation."

The party said people would give a befitting reply to the BJP for resorting to such tactics.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from the Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering investigation into the alleged exam paper leak case in the state, official sources said.

It also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) case.

Several Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, spoke out on the matter.

Kharge alleged that agencies such as the ED, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Income Tax Department become the real 'panna pramukh' (party workers) of the BJP as soon as elections come.

"Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last throw of the dice! After Chhattisgarh, the ED has also entered the election campaign in Rajasthan and started action against Congress leaders," Kharge said.

"The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, and the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP," the Congress chief said in a post on X.

Ashok Gehlot said that the Congress launched "guarantees" (poll promises) for women of Rajasthan on Wednesday and the ED's action against Dotasra and Vaibhav Gehlot came just a day later.

"Now you can understand what I have been saying...ED's raids happen every day in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and poor in the state to get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress," Gehlot said in a post in Hindi on X.

Elections for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held on November 25 and results be declared on December 3.

In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed that the prime minister has been taken aback by the popularity of the schemes of the Congress government in Rajasthan over the last five years. "Faced with the prospect of certain defeat, the Prime Minister has resorted to his usual FDI tactics - Fear, Deception and Intimidation, and has unleashed the ED on Congress leaders in the state," he said.

"This sort of vendetta politics and the politics of polarisation is all that the BJP stands for today. The people of Rajasthan will give a befitting reply to the Prime Minister and his party in the forthcoming elections," Ramesh said.

Former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot alleged that the ED's action against Congress leaders was "politically motivated" and an indication that the BJP is trailing in all five poll-bound states.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Pilot said, "Elections are set to take place in Rajasthan in a few days from now and the Model Code of Conduct is in place but the timing, intent and objective of the government of India agencies' action in various places in Rajasthan is suspicious."

The Congress is against corruption and in favour of action being taken if there is an impartial inquiry and any evidence is found, but the government is specifically targeting leaders without any facts seeing an "imminent defeat" of the BJP in the upcoming polls in Rajasthan, Pilot said.

"This is to give a message that if the BJP becomes weaker politically it will misuse various agencies and intimidate people. The Congress opposes this...The BJP is trailing in all five states and today's action is a clear indication of that," he said.

Slamming the ED's action, Ashok Gehlot at a press conference in Jaipur said the BJP is unleashing "terror" in the country.

He also said the ED swung into action after he announced two poll promises on Wednesday for women of the state. He said that five more promises were also going to be declared on Friday and dared the ED to find five more Congress leaders to take action. The chief minister also likened the ED action to a locust attack and said the ED raids would destroy BJP's crops.

Ashok Gehlot claimed that ED's raids happen wherever elections are held.

Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED's raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said. "Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome. They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot said at the presser.

Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try", he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government.

"We will win the elections," the chief minister asserted.

Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera also lashed out at the Union government over the ED's action.

"Just last week, Ashok Gehlot ji held a press conference in Delhi and raised questions on the role of central agencies in the elections. Today again, ED has become very active in Rajasthan. Modi ji, contest elections directly, stop taking the help of agencies," Khera said in a post in Hindi on X.

Ashok Gehlot last week alleged that the BJP-led Centre is misusing probe agencies to target opposition leaders even after the enforcement of the model code of conduct, and urged PM Modi and the Election Commission to intervene.

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NEW DELHI: Slamming the Centre over the ED's action against its leaders in poll-bound Rajasthan, the Congress on Thursday alleged that faced with the prospect of "certain defeat", Prime Minister Narendra Modi has resorted to tactics of "FDI - fear, deception and intimidation." The party said people would give a befitting reply to the BJP for resorting to such tactics. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from the Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering investigation into the alleged exam paper leak case in the state, official sources said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); It also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) case. Several Congress leaders, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, spoke out on the matter. Kharge alleged that agencies such as the ED, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Income Tax Department become the real 'panna pramukh' (party workers) of the BJP as soon as elections come. "Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last throw of the dice! After Chhattisgarh, the ED has also entered the election campaign in Rajasthan and started action against Congress leaders," Kharge said. "The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, and the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP," the Congress chief said in a post on X. Ashok Gehlot said that the Congress launched "guarantees" (poll promises) for women of Rajasthan on Wednesday and the ED's action against Dotasra and Vaibhav Gehlot came just a day later. "Now you can understand what I have been saying...ED's raids happen every day in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and poor in the state to get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress," Gehlot said in a post in Hindi on X. Elections for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held on November 25 and results be declared on December 3. In a post on X, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed that the prime minister has been taken aback by the popularity of the schemes of the Congress government in Rajasthan over the last five years. "Faced with the prospect of certain defeat, the Prime Minister has resorted to his usual FDI tactics - Fear, Deception and Intimidation, and has unleashed the ED on Congress leaders in the state," he said. "This sort of vendetta politics and the politics of polarisation is all that the BJP stands for today. The people of Rajasthan will give a befitting reply to the Prime Minister and his party in the forthcoming elections," Ramesh said. Former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot alleged that the ED's action against Congress leaders was "politically motivated" and an indication that the BJP is trailing in all five poll-bound states. Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Pilot said, "Elections are set to take place in Rajasthan in a few days from now and the Model Code of Conduct is in place but the timing, intent and objective of the government of India agencies' action in various places in Rajasthan is suspicious." The Congress is against corruption and in favour of action being taken if there is an impartial inquiry and any evidence is found, but the government is specifically targeting leaders without any facts seeing an "imminent defeat" of the BJP in the upcoming polls in Rajasthan, Pilot said. "This is to give a message that if the BJP becomes weaker politically it will misuse various agencies and intimidate people. The Congress opposes this...The BJP is trailing in all five states and today's action is a clear indication of that," he said. Slamming the ED's action, Ashok Gehlot at a press conference in Jaipur said the BJP is unleashing "terror" in the country. He also said the ED swung into action after he announced two poll promises on Wednesday for women of the state. He said that five more promises were also going to be declared on Friday and dared the ED to find five more Congress leaders to take action. The chief minister also likened the ED action to a locust attack and said the ED raids would destroy BJP's crops. Ashok Gehlot claimed that ED's raids happen wherever elections are held. Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED's raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said. "Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome. They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot said at the presser. Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try", he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government. "We will win the elections," the chief minister asserted. Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera also lashed out at the Union government over the ED's action. "Just last week, Ashok Gehlot ji held a press conference in Delhi and raised questions on the role of central agencies in the elections. Today again, ED has become very active in Rajasthan. Modi ji, contest elections directly, stop taking the help of agencies," Khera said in a post in Hindi on X. Ashok Gehlot last week alleged that the BJP-led Centre is misusing probe agencies to target opposition leaders even after the enforcement of the model code of conduct, and urged PM Modi and the Election Commission to intervene. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

JAIPUR: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Thursday slammed the BJP after ED summoned his son Vaibhav and raided the premises of the Congress' state president Govind Singh Dotasra, saying terror has been unleashed in the country.

He claimed that Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids happen wherever elections are held.

Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said.

"Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome.They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot told reporters at a press conference here.

Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try, he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government.

"We will win the election," the Rajasthan chief minister asserted.

Citing data, Gehlot said that 112 searches by the ED happened during 10 years of UPA rule and charge sheets were filed in 104 cases.

But after 2014, as many as 3,010 raids happened and charge sheets were filed in 881 cases, he said.

ALSO READ | ED raids Rajasthan PCC chief in money laundering case related to exam paper leak matter

The Congress' state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, state ministers Mahesh Joshi and Pratap Singh Khachariyawas were among those also present at the press conference.

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and Omprakash Hudla, the party's candidate from Mahua assembly seat, as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state.

The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law.

After the raids, Congress workers sat on a dharna in Sikar and Jaipur and raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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JAIPUR: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Thursday slammed the BJP after ED summoned his son Vaibhav and raided the premises of the Congress' state president Govind Singh Dotasra, saying terror has been unleashed in the country. He claimed that Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids happen wherever elections are held. Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome.They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot told reporters at a press conference here. Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try, he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government. "We will win the election," the Rajasthan chief minister asserted. Citing data, Gehlot said that 112 searches by the ED happened during 10 years of UPA rule and charge sheets were filed in 104 cases. But after 2014, as many as 3,010 raids happened and charge sheets were filed in 881 cases, he said. ALSO READ | ED raids Rajasthan PCC chief in money laundering case related to exam paper leak matter The Congress' state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, state ministers Mahesh Joshi and Pratap Singh Khachariyawas were among those also present at the press conference. The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and Omprakash Hudla, the party's candidate from Mahua assembly seat, as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state. The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law. After the raids, Congress workers sat on a dharna in Sikar and Jaipur and raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Express News Service

NEW DELHI: A panel set up for revising NCERT textbooks has recommended that India be replaced with Bharat in all social science textbooks up to Class 12. Chairperson of the committee, C I Issac, told this newspaper that the panel has also suggested replacing ancient history with classical history and introducing the Indian Knowledge System in the syllabus for all subjects. The panel has also suggested highlighting Hindu victories in textbooks, evoking sharp reactions from Opposition paries.

It was a unanimous decision to replace the name India with Bharat in the textbooks for students across classes, said Issac, who heads the seven-member social science committee. He added that the recommendations have been shared with the education ministry. However, NCERT chairman Dinesh Saklani said no decision has been taken on the panels recommendations.

Bharat was officially used for the first time when the Centre sent out G20 invites in the name of President of Bharat instead of President of India. Later, the nameplate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 summit also read as Bharat instead of India. On highlighting Hindu victories, Issac said: Our failures are mentioned in the textbooks. But our victories over the Mughals and sultans are not.

The NCERT is revising the curriculum of the school textbooks in line with the National Education Policy. It recently constituted a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee to finalise the curriculum, textbooks and learning material. The panel chaired by Issac is among the 25 committees formed by NCERT in December 2021 to prepare position papers on various subjects.

Opposition parties panned the move. Congress leader K C Venugopal said: You can see how they are distorting the history of India through the textbook, syllabus...For us, India and Bharat are equal.

DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai said: The BJP is resorting to name-change politics to divert the attention of people from its misdeeds.

Over to education ministry

The recommendations have been shared with the education ministry; NCERT says no decision has been taken yet

Panel also suggests replacing ancient history with classical history and introducing Indian Knowledge System for all subjects

Oppn parties pan the move, terming it a bid to distort history

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NEW DELHI: A panel set up for revising NCERT textbooks has recommended that India be replaced with Bharat in all social science textbooks up to Class 12. Chairperson of the committee, C I Issac, told this newspaper that the panel has also suggested replacing ancient history with classical history and introducing the Indian Knowledge System in the syllabus for all subjects. The panel has also suggested highlighting Hindu victories in textbooks, evoking sharp reactions from Opposition paries. It was a unanimous decision to replace the name India with Bharat in the textbooks for students across classes, said Issac, who heads the seven-member social science committee. He added that the recommendations have been shared with the education ministry. However, NCERT chairman Dinesh Saklani said no decision has been taken on the panels recommendations. Bharat was officially used for the first time when the Centre sent out G20 invites in the name of President of Bharat instead of President of India. Later, the nameplate of Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 summit also read as Bharat instead of India. On highlighting Hindu victories, Issac said: Our failures are mentioned in the textbooks. But our victories over the Mughals and sultans are not.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The NCERT is revising the curriculum of the school textbooks in line with the National Education Policy. It recently constituted a 19-member National Syllabus and Teaching Learning Material Committee to finalise the curriculum, textbooks and learning material. The panel chaired by Issac is among the 25 committees formed by NCERT in December 2021 to prepare position papers on various subjects. Opposition parties panned the move. Congress leader K C Venugopal said: You can see how they are distorting the history of India through the textbook, syllabus...For us, India and Bharat are equal. DMK spokesperson Saravanan Annadurai said: The BJP is resorting to name-change politics to divert the attention of people from its misdeeds. Over to education ministry The recommendations have been shared with the education ministry; NCERT says no decision has been taken yet Panel also suggests replacing ancient history with classical history and introducing Indian Knowledge System for all subjects Oppn parties pan the move, terming it a bid to distort history Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

VIJAYAWADA: The State government is collaborating with Spanish and German Embassies to introduce the AI-generated Digital Teacher to teach Spanish and German languages to students of government schools in the State, said Principal Secretary (School Education) Praveen Prakash and revealed the details of the initiative, assuring that it will open up job opportunities for the students.

Praveen Prakash met the senior officials of the Spanish and German embassies, including Deputy Head of Mission, Spain, Elena Perez-Villanueva del Caz, Education Attache Manic Eugena and Matthias Stahle, and discussed the development of Digital Teacher (AI-generated) for teaching German and Spanish languages. He said that the State has equipped high schools with digital infrastructure in the form of interactive flat panels in all classrooms, provided tabs equipped with robust internet connections to students of class 8.

Andhra Pradesh is also exploring the possibilities of undertaking other innovative programmes in the government schools, the Principal Secretary added. Praveen Prakash also informed that the State government is heading swiftly towards introducing the IB syllabus in the government schools.

He held a meeting with the IB delegation comprising Balakrishna, India in-charge of IB, Amy Parker, Director of Marketing and Communication, Bannayan, Global Director of Business Development, and the senior officials from the school education department, regarding the roadmap for IB-AP joint certification of the classes 10 and 12 project.

Praveen Prakash held discussions with founder of Hotmail Sabeer Bhatia regarding the programme to create awareness on business principles among the students at an early stage. Praveen Prakash said that entrepreneurship courses tailored for students of class 9 to 12 developed by the Hotmail founder are to be made available in the syllabus of government schools.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

VIJAYAWADA: The State government is collaborating with Spanish and German Embassies to introduce the AI-generated Digital Teacher to teach Spanish and German languages to students of government schools in the State, said Principal Secretary (School Education) Praveen Prakash and revealed the details of the initiative, assuring that it will open up job opportunities for the students. Praveen Prakash met the senior officials of the Spanish and German embassies, including Deputy Head of Mission, Spain, Elena Perez-Villanueva del Caz, Education Attache Manic Eugena and Matthias Stahle, and discussed the development of Digital Teacher (AI-generated) for teaching German and Spanish languages. He said that the State has equipped high schools with digital infrastructure in the form of interactive flat panels in all classrooms, provided tabs equipped with robust internet connections to students of class 8. Andhra Pradesh is also exploring the possibilities of undertaking other innovative programmes in the government schools, the Principal Secretary added. Praveen Prakash also informed that the State government is heading swiftly towards introducing the IB syllabus in the government schools.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); He held a meeting with the IB delegation comprising Balakrishna, India in-charge of IB, Amy Parker, Director of Marketing and Communication, Bannayan, Global Director of Business Development, and the senior officials from the school education department, regarding the roadmap for IB-AP joint certification of the classes 10 and 12 project. Praveen Prakash held discussions with founder of Hotmail Sabeer Bhatia regarding the programme to create awareness on business principles among the students at an early stage. Praveen Prakash said that entrepreneurship courses tailored for students of class 9 to 12 developed by the Hotmail founder are to be made available in the syllabus of government schools. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By PTI

KOLLAM: The Left government in Kerala on Thursday strongly opposed the NCERT panel's suggestion to replace "India" with "Bharat" in school textbooks.

The CPI(M)-led dispensation alleged that this was a form of "parochial politics" with a hidden agenda, something the southern state could not accept under any circumstances.

A high-level committee for social sciences, appointed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revise the school curriculum, has recommended the replacement of "India" with "Bharat" in textbooks for all classes nationwide.

ALSO READ | Opposition slams Centre after NCERT panel's suggests replacing 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks

Addressing a press conference, state Education Minister V Sivankutty stated that the state would reject the panel's recommendation to change the country's name.

He asserted that there was a deliberate effort to "saffronise" the entire curriculum, denying the new generation the opportunity to learn the authentic history of the country.

Sivankutty alleged that this national-level curriculum revision was incompatible with democratic values.

"Every citizen has the right to use India or Bharat as mentioned in the Constitution," he pointed out.

Asking to use only "Bharat" in the textbook was with a "hidden agenda and parochial politics," and Kerala cannot accept it, he said while explaining the government's stand.

In a federal country, the opinion of states should also have been sought before taking significant decisions, but it is not happening in India now, the Minister alleged.

He recalled that Kerala had responded "academically" when a similar attempt to "distort history" took place at the national level during a previous curriculum revision.

Citing figures, he said out of the 33 crore children of school-going age, only 25 crore actually attend educational institutions. The remaining are not in school for various reasons.

As a progressive society, Kerala bears the responsibility to expose attempts to evade such critical issues, Sivanakutty said.

The minister further said that since education is a subject on the concurrent list of the Constitution, the state has the right to make its own decisions in that area.

If the NCERT intends to give children, through its textbooks, content that is 'unconstitutional, unscientific, and a distortion of real history,' Kerala would defend it by raising academic debates, he said.

The government would also convene the State Curriculum Committee and discuss in detail the work of preparing all the textbooks for the 11th and 12th standards in the state itself.

At present, the state is using 44 out of the total 120 textbooks published by the NCERT in these classes.

Responding to a question, the minister said further action would be decided after getting more details on the issue and consulting with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

CPI (M) state secretary M V Govindan also strongly criticised the BJP-led central government over the NCERT"s recommendation to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' and said the attempt was to indoctrinate a generation by teaching 'distorted history'.

He accused the Centre of trying to change the country's name to Bharat as the opposition front was named "INDIA".

According to NCERT high-level committee chairperson C I Isaac, the panel has suggested replacing the name "India" with "Bharat" in the textbooks, introducing "classical history", instead of "ancient history", in the curriculum, and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects.

NCERT Chairman Dinesh Saklani, however, said no decision has been taken yet on the panel's recommendations.

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KOLLAM: The Left government in Kerala on Thursday strongly opposed the NCERT panel's suggestion to replace "India" with "Bharat" in school textbooks. The CPI(M)-led dispensation alleged that this was a form of "parochial politics" with a hidden agenda, something the southern state could not accept under any circumstances. A high-level committee for social sciences, appointed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) to revise the school curriculum, has recommended the replacement of "India" with "Bharat" in textbooks for all classes nationwide.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); ALSO READ | Opposition slams Centre after NCERT panel's suggests replacing 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks Addressing a press conference, state Education Minister V Sivankutty stated that the state would reject the panel's recommendation to change the country's name. He asserted that there was a deliberate effort to "saffronise" the entire curriculum, denying the new generation the opportunity to learn the authentic history of the country. Sivankutty alleged that this national-level curriculum revision was incompatible with democratic values. "Every citizen has the right to use India or Bharat as mentioned in the Constitution," he pointed out. Asking to use only "Bharat" in the textbook was with a "hidden agenda and parochial politics," and Kerala cannot accept it, he said while explaining the government's stand. In a federal country, the opinion of states should also have been sought before taking significant decisions, but it is not happening in India now, the Minister alleged. He recalled that Kerala had responded "academically" when a similar attempt to "distort history" took place at the national level during a previous curriculum revision. Citing figures, he said out of the 33 crore children of school-going age, only 25 crore actually attend educational institutions. The remaining are not in school for various reasons. As a progressive society, Kerala bears the responsibility to expose attempts to evade such critical issues, Sivanakutty said. The minister further said that since education is a subject on the concurrent list of the Constitution, the state has the right to make its own decisions in that area. If the NCERT intends to give children, through its textbooks, content that is 'unconstitutional, unscientific, and a distortion of real history,' Kerala would defend it by raising academic debates, he said. The government would also convene the State Curriculum Committee and discuss in detail the work of preparing all the textbooks for the 11th and 12th standards in the state itself. At present, the state is using 44 out of the total 120 textbooks published by the NCERT in these classes. Responding to a question, the minister said further action would be decided after getting more details on the issue and consulting with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. CPI (M) state secretary M V Govindan also strongly criticised the BJP-led central government over the NCERT"s recommendation to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' and said the attempt was to indoctrinate a generation by teaching 'distorted history'. He accused the Centre of trying to change the country's name to Bharat as the opposition front was named "INDIA". According to NCERT high-level committee chairperson C I Isaac, the panel has suggested replacing the name "India" with "Bharat" in the textbooks, introducing "classical history", instead of "ancient history", in the curriculum, and including the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in the syllabus for all subjects. NCERT Chairman Dinesh Saklani, however, said no decision has been taken yet on the panel's recommendations. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
SV Krishna Chaitanya By

Express News Service

CHENNAI: There has been a significant spike in air pollution levels in Chennai over the past few days. On Wednesday morning, the citys air quality index (AQI) touched 130, which, as per National Ambient Air Quality Standards stipulated by the Central Pollution Control Board, falls under the moderately polluted category, enough to cause breathing discomfort to those with lung, asthma and heart diseases. The citys AQI was near 100 last week, sources said. Gummidipoondi, near Chennai, made it to the list of top 10 polluted cities in India on three of seven days over the past week, sources said.

Chennai has seven continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations that provide real-time levels of different pollutants. Of the seven stations, one at Alandur bus depot has recorded AQI of 195, which is close to poor category. Likewise, Perungudi also recorded a higher AQI of 164. The AQI in only two stations, Velachery and Royapuram, was below 100, categorised as satisfactory, sources said.

Condition may improve after weather systems in sea weaken

The dominant and most harmful pollutant is PM 2.5, which peaked to 318 in some of the monitoring stations. The concentration of harmful particulate matter is several times higher than the prescribed limit. The World Health Organisation prescribes 25 ug/m3 as a safe limit, while India has fixed a standard of 60 ug/m3. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials attribute the spike in pollution levels to unfavourable meteorological conditions that are building the emission load.

The Met Office said the conditions would improve in two or three days after the weather systems in the sea weaken. PM 2.5 particles are 20 times smaller than the width of human hair. On inhaling them, the ultra-fine particles are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, penetrating deep into the respiratory and circulatory systems.

Even short-term exposures to these particles can trigger symptoms of asthma and cause respiratory or heart issues, experts said. P Senthamarai Kannan, senior scientist at the Regional Meteorological Centre, told TNIE, For the past few days, there is still-atmosphere. Also, the cold wind from the north has reduced the night temperature by a couple of degrees.

The sea breeze is also weak due to the weather system in the Bay of Bengal. All these factors hamper the dispersal of pollutants. The weather conditions would change in another 2-3 days and northeast monsoon rainfall that will start from October 29 would keep a check on pollution levels. The rainfall in north Tamil Nadu was affected because of cyclonic storm Hamoon, which crossed Bangladesh coast on Wednesday and weakened into a deep depression.

The system would further weaken in the next few days. The pollution levels also went up in Gummidipoondi. But pollution in places like Ramanathupuram and Thoothukudi remained within safe limits thanks to the rainfall activity triggered by the weather system in the Arabian Sea. Sunil Dahiya, analyst, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), told TNIE, Chennai region has a lot of industries, coal-based power plants, and a high number of vehicles.

All these lead to huge emissions and contribute to the worsening of air quality. While Chennai is a coastal city and air pollutants get diluted due to the high intermixing of air between sea and land, the city holds huge potential to reduce emission loads and can set an example by becoming the first city to move towards WHO daily guideline levels.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

CHENNAI: There has been a significant spike in air pollution levels in Chennai over the past few days. On Wednesday morning, the citys air quality index (AQI) touched 130, which, as per National Ambient Air Quality Standards stipulated by the Central Pollution Control Board, falls under the moderately polluted category, enough to cause breathing discomfort to those with lung, asthma and heart diseases. The citys AQI was near 100 last week, sources said. Gummidipoondi, near Chennai, made it to the list of top 10 polluted cities in India on three of seven days over the past week, sources said. Chennai has seven continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations that provide real-time levels of different pollutants. Of the seven stations, one at Alandur bus depot has recorded AQI of 195, which is close to poor category. Likewise, Perungudi also recorded a higher AQI of 164. The AQI in only two stations, Velachery and Royapuram, was below 100, categorised as satisfactory, sources said. Condition may improve after weather systems in sea weakengoogletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The dominant and most harmful pollutant is PM 2.5, which peaked to 318 in some of the monitoring stations. The concentration of harmful particulate matter is several times higher than the prescribed limit. The World Health Organisation prescribes 25 ug/m3 as a safe limit, while India has fixed a standard of 60 ug/m3. Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board officials attribute the spike in pollution levels to unfavourable meteorological conditions that are building the emission load. The Met Office said the conditions would improve in two or three days after the weather systems in the sea weaken. PM 2.5 particles are 20 times smaller than the width of human hair. On inhaling them, the ultra-fine particles are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, penetrating deep into the respiratory and circulatory systems. Even short-term exposures to these particles can trigger symptoms of asthma and cause respiratory or heart issues, experts said. P Senthamarai Kannan, senior scientist at the Regional Meteorological Centre, told TNIE, For the past few days, there is still-atmosphere. Also, the cold wind from the north has reduced the night temperature by a couple of degrees. The sea breeze is also weak due to the weather system in the Bay of Bengal. All these factors hamper the dispersal of pollutants. The weather conditions would change in another 2-3 days and northeast monsoon rainfall that will start from October 29 would keep a check on pollution levels. The rainfall in north Tamil Nadu was affected because of cyclonic storm Hamoon, which crossed Bangladesh coast on Wednesday and weakened into a deep depression. The system would further weaken in the next few days. The pollution levels also went up in Gummidipoondi. But pollution in places like Ramanathupuram and Thoothukudi remained within safe limits thanks to the rainfall activity triggered by the weather system in the Arabian Sea. Sunil Dahiya, analyst, the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), told TNIE, Chennai region has a lot of industries, coal-based power plants, and a high number of vehicles. All these lead to huge emissions and contribute to the worsening of air quality. While Chennai is a coastal city and air pollutants get diluted due to the high intermixing of air between sea and land, the city holds huge potential to reduce emission loads and can set an example by becoming the first city to move towards WHO daily guideline levels. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By AFP

TBILISI: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Thursday he hopes to sign a peace agreement with arch-foe Azerbaijan in the coming months, weeks after Baku recaptured Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic-Armenian separatists.

Yerevan and Baku have been locked in a decades-long conflict for control of Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh.

Baku took control of the mountainous region in September in a lightning 24-hour offensive that ended decades of pro-Armenian separatist rule.

"We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months," Pashinyan said in an address to an international economic forum in the Georgian capital Tbilisi.

He said the future peace treaty will be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbours' Soviet-era borders.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said previously that a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year.

ALSO READ | Azerbaijan leader turns down meeting with Armenia PM

Pashinyan also said Thursday he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats.

Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan.

In 2020 and in the 1990s, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought two wars for control of Karabakh, which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but home to a majority ethnic-Armenian population.

Internationally mediated peace talks between the ex-Soviet republics have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.

Almost all of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population -- some 100,000 people -- fled for Armenia after Baku's offensive, sparking a refugee crisis.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

TBILISI: Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Thursday he hopes to sign a peace agreement with arch-foe Azerbaijan in the coming months, weeks after Baku recaptured Nagorno-Karabakh from ethnic-Armenian separatists. Yerevan and Baku have been locked in a decades-long conflict for control of Azerbaijan's Armenian-populated region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Baku took control of the mountainous region in September in a lightning 24-hour offensive that ended decades of pro-Armenian separatist rule.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "We are currently working on the draft agreement with Azerbaijan on peace and the normalisation of relations, and I hope this process will successfully conclude in the coming months," Pashinyan said in an address to an international economic forum in the Georgian capital Tbilisi. He said the future peace treaty will be based on the mutual recognition of the Caucasus neighbours' Soviet-era borders. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has said previously that a peace treaty with Yerevan could be signed by the end of the year. ALSO READ | Azerbaijan leader turns down meeting with Armenia PM Pashinyan also said Thursday he hoped the border between Armenia and Turkey could be opened for citizens of third countries and diplomats. Ankara closed its border with Armenia in the 1990s in solidarity with ally Azerbaijan. In 2020 and in the 1990s, Armenia and Azerbaijan fought two wars for control of Karabakh, which is internationally recognised as part of Azerbaijan but home to a majority ethnic-Armenian population. Internationally mediated peace talks between the ex-Soviet republics have so far failed to produce a breakthrough. Almost all of Nagorno-Karabakh's ethnic Armenian population -- some 100,000 people -- fled for Armenia after Baku's offensive, sparking a refugee crisis. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By AFP

JERUSALEM: Israel said Thursday that a column of tanks and infantry had launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza, striking "numerous" targets before retreating to home soil.

The military announced the incursion into the north of the Palestinian territory hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway.

The Israel Defense Forces described the operation as a "targeted raid" that hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts".

It said the operation was "preparation for the next stages of combat" adding that "the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory".

Black-and-white video footage posted by the military showed a column of armoured vehicles and bulldozers winding toward what appeared to be a border fence and breaking through it.

AFP verified the location as south of the Israeli city of Ashkelon but could not verify when the footage was recorded.

Another video appeared to show an airstrike and later buildings being struck with munitions, sending debris flying high into the air, along with a thick plume of smoke.

Just hours earlier Netanyahu had delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after Hamas's bloody October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence".

The shock attack saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 more, according to official tallies.

Israel has retaliated with heavy bombing that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said has killed more than 6,500, with the toll expected to rise substantially if tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed near Gaza move in.

FOLLOW OUR LIVE COVERAGE OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE

'Raining down hellfire'

Netanyahu, in the face of ever-louder international calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign, vowed to press ahead with plans for a ground war.

Boasting of "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists", Netanyahu said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive".

He pledged to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home" but stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part.

The ground raid into Gaza was not the first of its kind, a spokesman for the military told AFP. But it was likely to raise tensions in an already anxious region.

US President Joe Biden is among the foreign leaders stepping up public calls for Israel to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas targets.

Biden on Wednesday said he had privately suggested Israel should get hostages out if possible before any ground invasion.

"It's their decision, but I did not demand it", Biden said, as he called on Congress to allocate more money for Israeli defence.

Speaking in Cairo, French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "A massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error."

READ MORE | Al Jazeera Gaza correspondent loses 4 family members in an Israeli airstrike

'It's a massacre'

Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry on Wednesday said the death toll had surged by about 700 in a day to above 6,500, including many children.

US President Biden has stated he has "no confidence" in the Hamas ministry figures.

While the exact death toll may be unclear, the depth of the suffering is not in question.

Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons in hospitals overwhelmed with wounded carry out procedures without anaesthetic, and ice cream trucks have become makeshift morgues.

"They're not waging war on Hamas, they're waging war on children," charged one resident, Abu Ali Zaarab, after his family home was bombed in the southern town of Rafah. "It's a massacre."

About 1.4 million people -- more than half of Gaza's population -- have been displaced, according to the United Nations.

The UN says 12 of the territory's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel, and a key UN aid agency serving almost 600,000 Palestinians said it "began to significantly reduce its operations".

Israel has cut off Gaza's normal supply corridors for water, food and other necessities, and fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory since the war began.

None contained fuel, which Israel fears Hamas will use for rockets and explosives.

Aid agencies have warned that more people will die if medical equipment, water desalination plants and ambulances stop operating because of a lack of fuel.

Once the generators stop, hospitals will "turn into morgues", the Red Cross has warned. Hospitals are also struggling with a shortage of medicines and equipment.

"We performed a number of surgeries without anaesthetic," said Ahmad Abdul Hadi, an orthopaedic surgeon working at Nasser hospital in Khan Yunis.

"It's tough and painful, but with the lack of resources, what can we do?"

A regional 'explosion'

The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies.

Since October 7, Israel has launched thousands of strikes in Gaza, but it has also hit targets in Lebanon and Syria.

Late Wednesday, Lebanon-based Hezbollah fired what Israel said was a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli drone.

Israel's military said it had intercepted the missile and "struck the source of the launch".

Hamas, Hezbollah and Syria's government are backed by Iran, which denies Israel's right to exist.

Tehran's top diplomat on Wednesday accused Israel of carrying out "genocide" in Gaza.

Jordan's King Abdullah became the latest leader to warn that ongoing violence could "lead to an explosion" in the region.

His wife Queen Rania accused Western leaders of a "glaring double standard" for not condemning Israel's killing of Palestinian civilians in its bombardment of Gaza.

Violence has also risen sharply in the occupied West Bank, where health officials said more than 100 Palestinians had been killed, mostly in raids by Israeli troops or in clashes with Israeli settlers.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

JERUSALEM: Israel said Thursday that a column of tanks and infantry had launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza, striking "numerous" targets before retreating to home soil. The military announced the incursion into the north of the Palestinian territory hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway. The Israel Defense Forces described the operation as a "targeted raid" that hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts".googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); It said the operation was "preparation for the next stages of combat" adding that "the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory". Black-and-white video footage posted by the military showed a column of armoured vehicles and bulldozers winding toward what appeared to be a border fence and breaking through it. AFP verified the location as south of the Israeli city of Ashkelon but could not verify when the footage was recorded. Another video appeared to show an airstrike and later buildings being struck with munitions, sending debris flying high into the air, along with a thick plume of smoke. Just hours earlier Netanyahu had delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after Hamas's bloody October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence". The shock attack saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 more, according to official tallies. Israel has retaliated with heavy bombing that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said has killed more than 6,500, with the toll expected to rise substantially if tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed near Gaza move in. FOLLOW OUR LIVE COVERAGE OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE 'Raining down hellfire' Netanyahu, in the face of ever-louder international calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign, vowed to press ahead with plans for a ground war. Boasting of "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists", Netanyahu said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive". He pledged to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home" but stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part. The ground raid into Gaza was not the first of its kind, a spokesman for the military told AFP. But it was likely to raise tensions in an already anxious region. US President Joe Biden is among the foreign leaders stepping up public calls for Israel to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas targets. Biden on Wednesday said he had privately suggested Israel should get hostages out if possible before any ground invasion. "It's their decision, but I did not demand it", Biden said, as he called on Congress to allocate more money for Israeli defence. Speaking in Cairo, French President Emmanuel Macron warned: "A massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error." READ MORE | Al Jazeera Gaza correspondent loses 4 family members in an Israeli airstrike 'It's a massacre' Gaza's Hamas-controlled health ministry on Wednesday said the death toll had surged by about 700 in a day to above 6,500, including many children. US President Biden has stated he has "no confidence" in the Hamas ministry figures. While the exact death toll may be unclear, the depth of the suffering is not in question. Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons in hospitals overwhelmed with wounded carry out procedures without anaesthetic, and ice cream trucks have become makeshift morgues. "They're not waging war on Hamas, they're waging war on children," charged one resident, Abu Ali Zaarab, after his family home was bombed in the southern town of Rafah. "It's a massacre." About 1.4 million people -- more than half of Gaza's population -- have been displaced, according to the United Nations. The UN says 12 of the territory's 35 hospitals have closed due to damage or insufficient fuel, and a key UN aid agency serving almost 600,000 Palestinians said it "began to significantly reduce its operations". Israel has cut off Gaza's normal supply corridors for water, food and other necessities, and fewer than 70 relief trucks have entered the impoverished territory since the war began. None contained fuel, which Israel fears Hamas will use for rockets and explosives. Aid agencies have warned that more people will die if medical equipment, water desalination plants and ambulances stop operating because of a lack of fuel. Once the generators stop, hospitals will "turn into morgues", the Red Cross has warned. Hospitals are also struggling with a shortage of medicines and equipment. "We performed a number of surgeries without anaesthetic," said Ahmad Abdul Hadi, an orthopaedic surgeon working at Nasser hospital in Khan Yunis. "It's tough and painful, but with the lack of resources, what can we do?" A regional 'explosion' The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies. Since October 7, Israel has launched thousands of strikes in Gaza, but it has also hit targets in Lebanon and Syria. Late Wednesday, Lebanon-based Hezbollah fired what Israel said was a surface-to-air missile at an Israeli drone. Israel's military said it had intercepted the missile and "struck the source of the launch". Hamas, Hezbollah and Syria's government are backed by Iran, which denies Israel's right to exist. Tehran's top diplomat on Wednesday accused Israel of carrying out "genocide" in Gaza. Jordan's King Abdullah became the latest leader to warn that ongoing violence could "lead to an explosion" in the region. His wife Queen Rania accused Western leaders of a "glaring double standard" for not condemning Israel's killing of Palestinian civilians in its bombardment of Gaza. Violence has also risen sharply in the occupied West Bank, where health officials said more than 100 Palestinians had been killed, mostly in raids by Israeli troops or in clashes with Israeli settlers. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday.

The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

He said the two sides have shown mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, made solid progress in cooperation across the board, and constantly deepened friendship between the two peoples.

The establishment of the strategic partnership is the result of the long-term efforts of all sectors of the two countries, and also a natural manifestation of mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides, Xi noted, adding that such a result should be cherished by both sides and continuously enriched and developed.

"China is willing to work with Colombia to promote the China-Colombia strategic partnership to better benefit the two peoples and inject positive energy into world peace and development," he said.

Xi said China supports Colombia's independent exploration of a development path suited to its national conditions, supports the peace process in Colombia, hopes that Colombia can realize comprehensive, lasting and sustainable peace at an early date, and believes that China's high-quality development and modernization process will bring new development opportunities to Colombia and other countries.

China-Colombia relations are based on equality, mutual benefit and win-win results, Xi said, adding that Colombia is welcome to join the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) at an early date to achieve common development and prosperity.

Xi called on the two sides to make good use of the mixed economic and trade committee mechanism, optimize bilateral trade structure, and strengthen cooperation in information, communications, digital economy and other fields. China encourages more high-quality Colombian products to enter the Chinese market, he added.

He also called for joint efforts to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral law enforcement cooperation, expressing hope that Colombia can better ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in the country.

As developing countries, China and Colombia should strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs to safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Xi also said China attaches great importance to developing relations with Latin America and the Caribbean, and is willing to continue to support the regional integration process in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Colombia is willing to maintain communication with China on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, among others, and push for a solution to stop the war and cool down the situation as soon as possible, said Petro, adding that Colombia welcomes the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi, and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral mechanisms.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the strategic partnership. 

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Editor: JYZ
By Associated Press

WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden on Wednesday spoke out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. He also said he was redoubling his commitment to working on a two-state solution to end the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to "pouring gasoline" on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack.

It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now, Biden said at the start of a news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was being honored with a state visit to Washington.

Settler violence against Palestinians has intensified since the Hamas attack, and Palestinians have been killed by settlers, according to Palestinian authorities. Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing them to evacuate to other areas.

The West Bank Protection Consortium, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations and donor countries, including the European Union, says hundreds of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since Oct. 7. Thats in addition to over 1,100 displaced since 2022.

FOLLOW OUR LIVE COVERAGE OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE

Deadly violence has been surging in the West Bank as the Israeli military pursues Palestinian militants in the aftermath of the Hamas attack from Gaza.

The violence threatens to open another front in the two-week-old war, and puts pressure on the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank and is deeply unpopular among Palestinians, in large part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters.

Biden again condemned the brutality of the Hamas attack that killed 1,400 Israelis and said he was convinced that Hamas was driven in part by a desire to undo U.S.-led efforts to normalize Israeli relations with some of its Arab neighbors, including Saudi Arabia.

The president also said that after the Israel-Hamas conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work toward a two-state solution.

Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and peace, Biden said, adding, "When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution.

Biden emphasized that point during a Wednesday afternoon call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling the Israeli leader it will be important to focus on what comes after this crisis including "a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians," according to a White House statement.

The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to locate and free the more than 200 hostages that Hamas and other militant groups captured, the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ensuring safe passage for foreign nationals looking to leave the strip.

The Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory strikes. Biden said he had doubts about the accuracy of the Hamas death count, but stressed that it was critical for Israel to move carefully in its response to minimize civilian deaths.

I'm sure innocents have been killed, and it's the price of waging a war, Biden said. Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that theyre focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war. Biden said.

Biden also said he has not directly sought assurances from Netanyahu that Israel will hold off on an expected ground invasion into Gaza before hostages can be released.

What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible, to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Biden said at news conference at the White House. But I did not demand it. I pointed out to him, if its real, it should be done." About 10 Americans remain unaccounted for amid the Israel-Hamas war, according to the White House.

Biden also said Wednesday that he warned Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, that if Tehran continues to move against U.S. forces in the Middle East, we will respond." American bases in Iraq and Syria have been targeted recently by drone and rocket attacks, and Iranian-backed militias have threatened to attack U.S. facilities because of American support for Israel.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

WASHINGTON: US President Joe Biden on Wednesday spoke out against retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel. He also said he was redoubling his commitment to working on a two-state solution to end the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict. Biden said the attacks by extremist settlers amounted to "pouring gasoline" on the already burning fires in the Middle East since the Hamas attack. It has to stop. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now, Biden said at the start of a news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was being honored with a state visit to Washington.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Settler violence against Palestinians has intensified since the Hamas attack, and Palestinians have been killed by settlers, according to Palestinian authorities. Rights groups say settlers have torched cars and attacked several small Bedouin communities, forcing them to evacuate to other areas. The West Bank Protection Consortium, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations and donor countries, including the European Union, says hundreds of Palestinians have been forcibly displaced in the West Bank due to settler violence since Oct. 7. Thats in addition to over 1,100 displaced since 2022. FOLLOW OUR LIVE COVERAGE OF ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR HERE Deadly violence has been surging in the West Bank as the Israeli military pursues Palestinian militants in the aftermath of the Hamas attack from Gaza. The violence threatens to open another front in the two-week-old war, and puts pressure on the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, which administers parts of the West Bank and is deeply unpopular among Palestinians, in large part because it cooperates with Israel on security matters. Biden again condemned the brutality of the Hamas attack that killed 1,400 Israelis and said he was convinced that Hamas was driven in part by a desire to undo U.S.-led efforts to normalize Israeli relations with some of its Arab neighbors, including Saudi Arabia. The president also said that after the Israel-Hamas conflict comes to an end, Israelis, Palestinians and their partners must work toward a two-state solution. Israelis and Palestinians equally deserve to live side by side in safety, dignity and peace, Biden said, adding, "When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution. Biden emphasized that point during a Wednesday afternoon call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, telling the Israeli leader it will be important to focus on what comes after this crisis including "a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians," according to a White House statement. The leaders also discussed ongoing efforts to locate and free the more than 200 hostages that Hamas and other militant groups captured, the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and ensuring safe passage for foreign nationals looking to leave the strip. The Hamas-run Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians in Gaza have been killed in retaliatory strikes. Biden said he had doubts about the accuracy of the Hamas death count, but stressed that it was critical for Israel to move carefully in its response to minimize civilian deaths. I'm sure innocents have been killed, and it's the price of waging a war, Biden said. Israel should be incredibly careful to be sure that theyre focusing on going after the folks that are propagating this war. Biden said. Biden also said he has not directly sought assurances from Netanyahu that Israel will hold off on an expected ground invasion into Gaza before hostages can be released. What I have indicated to him is that if thats possible, to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Biden said at news conference at the White House. But I did not demand it. I pointed out to him, if its real, it should be done." About 10 Americans remain unaccounted for amid the Israel-Hamas war, according to the White House. Biden also said Wednesday that he warned Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Irans supreme leader, that if Tehran continues to move against U.S. forces in the Middle East, we will respond." American bases in Iraq and Syria have been targeted recently by drone and rocket attacks, and Iranian-backed militias have threatened to attack U.S. facilities because of American support for Israel. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Online Desk

Meta, which owns Instagram, on Wednesday said that it detected a possible attack to hack a pro-Palestinian account with a massive following and the company had locked it while trying to contact the owner.

The account @eye.on.palestine which had over 6 million followers on Instagram went dark on Wednesday. A backup account, @eye.on.palestine2, was also unavailable Wednesday, as were a related Facebook account and a Threads account. When they were visited Wednesday, the Instagram pages returned the message: Sorry, this page isnt available.

The account focused on footage from Gaza, which recorded the civilian casualties and injuries caused by Israeli airstrikes in the strip. In May 2023, the administrators of the page had shared on their Telegram account that they received a warning from Instagram that a "government-backed hacker" is trying to take the page down.

ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders

Some pro-Palestinian accounts with fewer followers were also unavailable. These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and were working to make contact with the account owners to ensure they have access, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said in a statement. We did not disable these accounts because of any content they were sharing.

READ HERE | Gaza has gone through 16 years of 'de-development', says UN



On X, formerly known as Twitter, the account @EyeonPalestine was listed as no longer being in existence. It wasnt clear when the account disappeared.

Instagram has been accused of censoring pro-Palestine accounts, with many users claiming that the platform has been "shadow-banning" them for posts supporting Palestinians. Shadow banning is the practice of blocking or partially blocking a user or the user's content from some areas of an online community in such a way that the ban is not readily apparent to the user.

Authors, activists, journalists, filmmakers and other Instagram users around the world have said posts mentioning hashtags like FreePalestine and IStandWithPalestine as well as messages expressing solidarity with Palestinians are being hidden by the platform.

Users have also accused Instagram of taking down posts which depict the violence in Gaza citing violation of community guidelines.

Meta spokesperson Stone had posted on X that a bug was impacting the reach of certain posts and it had nothing to do with the subject matter of the content.

The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five conflicts in Gaza.

More than 1,400 people in Israel were killed during the initial Hamas attack. In addition, 222 hostages were abducted by Hamas militants.

The Hamas-run Health Ministry said that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded.

ALSO READ | Al Jazeera's chief Gaza correspondent loses four family members in Israeli airstrike

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

Meta, which owns Instagram, on Wednesday said that it detected a possible attack to hack a pro-Palestinian account with a massive following and the company had locked it while trying to contact the owner. The account @eye.on.palestine which had over 6 million followers on Instagram went dark on Wednesday. A backup account, @eye.on.palestine2, was also unavailable Wednesday, as were a related Facebook account and a Threads account. When they were visited Wednesday, the Instagram pages returned the message: Sorry, this page isnt available. googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); The account focused on footage from Gaza, which recorded the civilian casualties and injuries caused by Israeli airstrikes in the strip. In May 2023, the administrators of the page had shared on their Telegram account that they received a warning from Instagram that a "government-backed hacker" is trying to take the page down. ALSO READ | Fearing airstrikes and crowded shelters, Palestinians in north Gaza defy Israeli evacuation orders Some pro-Palestinian accounts with fewer followers were also unavailable. These accounts were initially locked for security reasons after signs of compromise, and were working to make contact with the account owners to ensure they have access, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone said in a statement. We did not disable these accounts because of any content they were sharing. READ HERE | Gaza has gone through 16 years of 'de-development', says UN On X, formerly known as Twitter, the account @EyeonPalestine was listed as no longer being in existence. It wasnt clear when the account disappeared. Instagram has been accused of censoring pro-Palestine accounts, with many users claiming that the platform has been "shadow-banning" them for posts supporting Palestinians. Shadow banning is the practice of blocking or partially blocking a user or the user's content from some areas of an online community in such a way that the ban is not readily apparent to the user. Authors, activists, journalists, filmmakers and other Instagram users around the world have said posts mentioning hashtags like FreePalestine and IStandWithPalestine as well as messages expressing solidarity with Palestinians are being hidden by the platform. Users have also accused Instagram of taking down posts which depict the violence in Gaza citing violation of community guidelines. Meta spokesperson Stone had posted on X that a bug was impacting the reach of certain posts and it had nothing to do with the subject matter of the content. The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five conflicts in Gaza. More than 1,400 people in Israel were killed during the initial Hamas attack. In addition, 222 hostages were abducted by Hamas militants. The Hamas-run Health Ministry said that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded. ALSO READ | Al Jazeera's chief Gaza correspondent loses four family members in Israeli airstrike Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Yeshi Seli By

Express News Service

NEW DELHI: Pakistan should apologise to Bangladesh for its actions during the 1971 liberation war, said AKM Mozammel Haque, the countrys minister for Liberation War Affairs, during his visit to New Delhi on Thursday.

The Bangladeshi minister went further to state that Pakistans apology was the only way their relationship would improve with Bangladesh, adding that they can never forget the role India played to help them find their own country where they got back the respect that had been lost.

"Pakistan should apologise to us for 1971. They were barbaric with Bangladeshis and we are grateful that Indians came to our rescue. That is how we got liberated. To commemorate the Indian soldiers who fought for us we are making a monument in Bangladesh which will have their names engraved so that people remember their sacrifice. It would be completed by December," said Haque.

"Pakistan supports terrorists that is why they could do well in their economy. In the name of Islam what they have done and are doing they cannot be supported. No Islam-loving nation will like Pakistan. It is not a democracy and this is why they havent progressed," Haque added.

The Awami League leader also condemned Canada for giving shelter to the killers of the country's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. "It is not acceptable that countries like Canada are giving asylum to killers who should be handed over to Bangladesh," he said.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh today honoured the families of 10 Indian war veterans and also gave away scholarships to the kin of the veterans in Delhi. Bangladesh will be giving out a total of 200 scholarships of $1000 each to young students who are mostly grandchildren of Indian war veterans.

"We dont want to forget the contribution of Indian war veterans and these scholarships would ensure that not just the families of the Indian veterans remember their sacrifice but also Bangladeshis," Haq said.

Meanwhile, Haq visited the Army Hospital in Delhi and interacted with Bangladeshi freedom fighters (muktijodhas) who are undergoing treatment there. Three Bangladesh freedom fighters are undergoing treatment in Army Hospital Research and Referral. The Muktijodhas have been extended the facility as a special gesture by the Indian government.

A marching contingent of the Bangladesh army took part in the Republic Day parade of 2021, the third time foreign soldiers marched down Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) as part of Indias biggest ceremonial event. The contingent was invited to take part in the parade at a time when the two countries were celebrating the golden jubilee of the birth of Bangladesh.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

NEW DELHI: Pakistan should apologise to Bangladesh for its actions during the 1971 liberation war, said AKM Mozammel Haque, the countrys minister for Liberation War Affairs, during his visit to New Delhi on Thursday. The Bangladeshi minister went further to state that Pakistans apology was the only way their relationship would improve with Bangladesh, adding that they can never forget the role India played to help them find their own country where they got back the respect that had been lost. "Pakistan should apologise to us for 1971. They were barbaric with Bangladeshis and we are grateful that Indians came to our rescue. That is how we got liberated. To commemorate the Indian soldiers who fought for us we are making a monument in Bangladesh which will have their names engraved so that people remember their sacrifice. It would be completed by December," said Haque.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Pakistan supports terrorists that is why they could do well in their economy. In the name of Islam what they have done and are doing they cannot be supported. No Islam-loving nation will like Pakistan. It is not a democracy and this is why they havent progressed," Haque added. The Awami League leader also condemned Canada for giving shelter to the killers of the country's first president Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. "It is not acceptable that countries like Canada are giving asylum to killers who should be handed over to Bangladesh," he said. Meanwhile, Bangladesh today honoured the families of 10 Indian war veterans and also gave away scholarships to the kin of the veterans in Delhi. Bangladesh will be giving out a total of 200 scholarships of $1000 each to young students who are mostly grandchildren of Indian war veterans. "We dont want to forget the contribution of Indian war veterans and these scholarships would ensure that not just the families of the Indian veterans remember their sacrifice but also Bangladeshis," Haq said. Meanwhile, Haq visited the Army Hospital in Delhi and interacted with Bangladeshi freedom fighters (muktijodhas) who are undergoing treatment there. Three Bangladesh freedom fighters are undergoing treatment in Army Hospital Research and Referral. The Muktijodhas have been extended the facility as a special gesture by the Indian government. A marching contingent of the Bangladesh army took part in the Republic Day parade of 2021, the third time foreign soldiers marched down Rajpath (now Kartavya Path) as part of Indias biggest ceremonial event. The contingent was invited to take part in the parade at a time when the two countries were celebrating the golden jubilee of the birth of Bangladesh. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Rahna Mariyam By

Online Desk

As someone who has been through several military escalations in Gaza, an official of UNRWA (The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) in Gaza said that the present onslaught by Israel is "unprecedented."

"Prior to the ongoing attack, Gaza has lived through five military escalations since 2008, but the scale of this war is unprecedented," said Inas Hamdan, the Public Information Officer for UNRWA.

"Yes, things were dire during previous military escalation but again NEVER like this," Inas Hamdan told the New Indian Express Online.

"Huge number of displaced people, severe destruction of residential buildings and infrastructure - we have never seen this much, catastrophic destruction before," she added.

Israel has been pounding the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the Islamic militant group Hamas' attack, referred to as Operation Al-Aqsa Flood (or Deluge), on Israel on October 7.

The Hamas attack claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, including women and children. Hamas took around 200 Israeli civilians and soldiers as hostages in the Gaza Strip.

Following this, in the blitz unleashed by Israel, as of Oct 26, 2023, over 7,000 people, including 3,000 children have been killed.

The Israeli military, according to Al Jazeera, has destroyed nearly 200,000 housing units, either completely or partially.

According to OCHA, (The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), over 1,600 people, including 900 children, have been reported missing and may be under the rubble.

Heavy Israeli bombardments continue in Gaza.

The Gaza Ministry of Public Works and Housing reported the destruction of 16,441 housing units and the rendering of 11,340 other units uninhabitable, as of 23 October.

About 150,000 housing units sustained minor to moderate damage. The total number of housing units reported as destroyed or damaged accounts for at least 45 per cent of all housing units in the Gaza Strip.

Entire neighborhoods have been wiped out, particularly in Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and Ash Shujaiyeh, the area between Gaza and Ash Shati Refugee Camp, and Abbassan Kabeera.

As of October 19, satellite imagery produced by UNOSAT shows the large scope of destruction, OCHA said in a statement.

Inas meanwhile added that so far around 40 UNRWA installations have been hit and damaged since the war started on October 7.

"Even wars have rules. These are UN installations and must be protected by international laws even during conflicts," she noted.

It is not just the UN installations and structures that have been destroyed. Hospitals like Al Ahli-- where almost 500 people reportedly died-- and residential structures are also bearing the brunt.

This has created a health crisis in Gaza, especially since the hospitals are running out of supplies while they are overrun. As the death toll is going up each day, more health facilities are needed in Gaza. And, it is nearly impossible to run these unless they get all the supplies they need.

It took two weeks, since the start of the war, to let humanitarian aid into a region that was already on the verge of collapse.

"So far 54 trucks loaded with food, medical supplies and water entered Gaza in the last three days but again this is not enough," says Inas.

As per UNRWA reports, there are about 600,000 displaced people taking refuge at UNRWA installations. In addition, more than 6000 were killed and thousands injured. Aid organizations like UNRWA working in Gaza can't keep going with the amount of aid that is currently let into the Gaza Strip.

Inas says, "What we got is NOT enough for extending the much-needed humanitarian support."

Earlier during the week, UN General Secretary Guterres said that what is now being provided is a drop of aid in an ocean of need for the people in Gaza, stressing the importance of humanitarian aid in Gaza.

ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Israel says its troops raided Gaza to prepare for 'next stages of combat'

Aid workers like Inas believe that calling for an immediate ceasefire and lifting the imposed blockade on the Gaza Strip-- which they have been under for the past 16 years--is important in Gaza's current unstable situation. Guaranteed, sustainable and regular access to humanitarian aid is what they are hoping for.

Gazans have been living without electricity and water for more than two weeks. UN and aid organizations have warned multiple times that fuel shortage in Gaza might force them to stop their activities in the Strip.

"As the internet connection is very poor, We, as UNRWA staff, find it difficult to stay in contact. Nevertheless, our staff keep working tirelessly on the ground to ensure delivering humanitarian support to both displaced people as well as refugees whom UNRWA is here to serve," Inas said.

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As someone who has been through several military escalations in Gaza, an official of UNRWA (The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees) in Gaza said that the present onslaught by Israel is "unprecedented." "Prior to the ongoing attack, Gaza has lived through five military escalations since 2008, but the scale of this war is unprecedented," said Inas Hamdan, the Public Information Officer for UNRWA. "Yes, things were dire during previous military escalation but again NEVER like this," Inas Hamdan told the New Indian Express Online.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); "Huge number of displaced people, severe destruction of residential buildings and infrastructure - we have never seen this much, catastrophic destruction before," she added. Israel has been pounding the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the Islamic militant group Hamas' attack, referred to as Operation Al-Aqsa Flood (or Deluge), on Israel on October 7. The Hamas attack claimed the lives of 1,200 Israelis, including women and children. Hamas took around 200 Israeli civilians and soldiers as hostages in the Gaza Strip. Following this, in the blitz unleashed by Israel, as of Oct 26, 2023, over 7,000 people, including 3,000 children have been killed. The Israeli military, according to Al Jazeera, has destroyed nearly 200,000 housing units, either completely or partially. According to OCHA, (The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs), over 1,600 people, including 900 children, have been reported missing and may be under the rubble. Heavy Israeli bombardments continue in Gaza. The Gaza Ministry of Public Works and Housing reported the destruction of 16,441 housing units and the rendering of 11,340 other units uninhabitable, as of 23 October. About 150,000 housing units sustained minor to moderate damage. The total number of housing units reported as destroyed or damaged accounts for at least 45 per cent of all housing units in the Gaza Strip. Entire neighborhoods have been wiped out, particularly in Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and Ash Shujaiyeh, the area between Gaza and Ash Shati Refugee Camp, and Abbassan Kabeera. As of October 19, satellite imagery produced by UNOSAT shows the large scope of destruction, OCHA said in a statement. Inas meanwhile added that so far around 40 UNRWA installations have been hit and damaged since the war started on October 7. "Even wars have rules. These are UN installations and must be protected by international laws even during conflicts," she noted. It is not just the UN installations and structures that have been destroyed. Hospitals like Al Ahli-- where almost 500 people reportedly died-- and residential structures are also bearing the brunt. This has created a health crisis in Gaza, especially since the hospitals are running out of supplies while they are overrun. As the death toll is going up each day, more health facilities are needed in Gaza. And, it is nearly impossible to run these unless they get all the supplies they need. It took two weeks, since the start of the war, to let humanitarian aid into a region that was already on the verge of collapse. "So far 54 trucks loaded with food, medical supplies and water entered Gaza in the last three days but again this is not enough," says Inas. As per UNRWA reports, there are about 600,000 displaced people taking refuge at UNRWA installations. In addition, more than 6000 were killed and thousands injured. Aid organizations like UNRWA working in Gaza can't keep going with the amount of aid that is currently let into the Gaza Strip. Inas says, "What we got is NOT enough for extending the much-needed humanitarian support." Earlier during the week, UN General Secretary Guterres said that what is now being provided is a drop of aid in an ocean of need for the people in Gaza, stressing the importance of humanitarian aid in Gaza. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war LIVE | Israel says its troops raided Gaza to prepare for 'next stages of combat' Aid workers like Inas believe that calling for an immediate ceasefire and lifting the imposed blockade on the Gaza Strip-- which they have been under for the past 16 years--is important in Gaza's current unstable situation. Guaranteed, sustainable and regular access to humanitarian aid is what they are hoping for. Gazans have been living without electricity and water for more than two weeks. UN and aid organizations have warned multiple times that fuel shortage in Gaza might force them to stop their activities in the Strip. "As the internet connection is very poor, We, as UNRWA staff, find it difficult to stay in contact. Nevertheless, our staff keep working tirelessly on the ground to ensure delivering humanitarian support to both displaced people as well as refugees whom UNRWA is here to serve," Inas said. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By AFP

KHAN YOUNIS: Hamas said on Thursday that Israeli strikes on Gaza have killed almost 50 of the hostages its militants seized in bloody cross-border attacks as the United Nations warned "nowhere is safe" in the territory.

The group's armed wing made the claim, which AFP could not immediately verify after Israel sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the enclave in a "targeted raid" overnight that the military said destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing.

"(Ezzedine) Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50," the group said in a statement on its Telegram channel.

Hamas's shock October 7 attacks, the worst in Israeli history, saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 224 more, according to official tallies.

Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near the border thrust across.

On the 20th day of Israel's bloodiest Gaza war yet, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, said that despite the Israeli military issuing warnings to people in Gaza City to leave, "advance warnings make no difference."

She said in a statement that when evacuation routes are bombed, "people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza."

The army said overnight its forces hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts."

Black smoke billowed into the sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the Israeli military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway.

The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", the military said.

The black-and-white video showed armoured vehicles moving near Gaza's border fence. Other footage appeared to show an air strike and buildings being targeted.

The raid came after Netanyahu delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after the October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence."

International alarm has increased amid growing shock about the scale of human suffering inside the besieged Palestinian territory where Israel has cut off most water, food, fuel and other basic supplies.

In southern Gaza, a grieving Umm Omar al-Khaldi told AFP how she saw her neighbours being killed in an Israeli strike that reduced the house to rubble, with many feared buried beneath.

"We saw them getting bombarded -- the children got bombarded while their mother was hugging them," the woman said, desperately pleading for help from the outside world.

"Where are the Arabs, where is humanity?" she asked.

Amnesty International in a statement called for an immediate ceasefire to ensure "access to life-saving aid for people in Gaza amidst an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe".

The human rights group's chief Agnes Callamard said: "Serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes, by all parties to the conflict continue unabated."

Surging death toll

The war's surging death toll is by far the highest since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the small coastal territory in 2005 -- a period that has seen four previous Gaza wars.

Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons are operating without anaesthetic, and ice cream trucks have become makeshift morgues.

In chaotic scenes, volunteers and neighbours have clawed, sometimes with their bare hands, through shattered concrete and sand to pull out civilian casualties. All too often they recover only corpses that have piled up, wrapped in bloodstained white shrouds.

In Brussels on Thursday, European Union leaders debated calling for "pauses" in the war so aid can get in. The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria.

"What we want is the killing and the violence to stop so that humanitarian aid can get into Gaza, where innocent Palestinian people are suffering, and also to allow us to get EU citizens out," Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said.

US President Joe Biden, a strong supporter of Israel, earlier joined the calls for it to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas.

French President Emmanuel Macron warned Wednesday that "a massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error."

And Jordan's King Abdullah II said anger at the suffering could "lead to an explosion" in the Middle East.

'Raining down hellfire'

Netanyahu -- amid the growing calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign -- said Israel had been "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists."

He said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" with the goal to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home."

But he stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part.

Netanyahu also acknowledged for the first time that he would have to explain the security lapses exposed on October 7. "The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me," he said. "But all this will happen later."

Biden stressed that "when this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next." He reiterated that Washington supports a two-state solution with independent Israeli and Palestinian states.

"It means a concentrated effort for all the parties -- Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, global leaders -- to put us on a path toward peace," Biden said.

The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies such as Iran-backed Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon. There has also been a rise in attacks on Israel's top ally, which has military bases across the Middle East.

About 2,500 American troops are stationed in Iraq and some 900 in Syria to help fight remnants of the Islamic State jihadist group. The Pentagon said there were 10 attacks on US and allied forces in Iraq and three in Syria between October 17 and 24, involving a "mix of one-way attack drones and rockets."

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

KHAN YOUNIS: Hamas said on Thursday that Israeli strikes on Gaza have killed almost 50 of the hostages its militants seized in bloody cross-border attacks as the United Nations warned "nowhere is safe" in the territory. The group's armed wing made the claim, which AFP could not immediately verify after Israel sent tanks, troops and armoured bulldozers into the enclave in a "targeted raid" overnight that the military said destroyed multiple sites before withdrawing. "(Ezzedine) Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50," the group said in a statement on its Telegram channel.googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); Hamas's shock October 7 attacks, the worst in Israeli history, saw throngs of Hamas gunmen pour from Gaza into Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 224 more, according to official tallies. Israel has retaliated with relentless strikes that Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry said have killed more than 7,000 people, also mainly civilians -- a toll expected to rise substantially if Israeli troops massed near the border thrust across. On the 20th day of Israel's bloodiest Gaza war yet, the UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, said that despite the Israeli military issuing warnings to people in Gaza City to leave, "advance warnings make no difference." She said in a statement that when evacuation routes are bombed, "people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza." The army said overnight its forces hit "numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts." Black smoke billowed into the sky after a blast in the grainy night-vision footage the Israeli military released hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway. The operation in northern Gaza came in "preparation for the next stages of combat", the military said. The black-and-white video showed armoured vehicles moving near Gaza's border fence. Other footage appeared to show an air strike and buildings being targeted. The raid came after Netanyahu delivered a nationally televised address to Israelis still grieving and furious after the October 7 attacks, telling them "we are in the midst of a campaign for our existence." International alarm has increased amid growing shock about the scale of human suffering inside the besieged Palestinian territory where Israel has cut off most water, food, fuel and other basic supplies. In southern Gaza, a grieving Umm Omar al-Khaldi told AFP how she saw her neighbours being killed in an Israeli strike that reduced the house to rubble, with many feared buried beneath. "We saw them getting bombarded -- the children got bombarded while their mother was hugging them," the woman said, desperately pleading for help from the outside world. "Where are the Arabs, where is humanity?" she asked. Amnesty International in a statement called for an immediate ceasefire to ensure "access to life-saving aid for people in Gaza amidst an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe". The human rights group's chief Agnes Callamard said: "Serious violations of international humanitarian law, including war crimes, by all parties to the conflict continue unabated." Surging death toll The war's surging death toll is by far the highest since Israel unilaterally withdrew from the small coastal territory in 2005 -- a period that has seen four previous Gaza wars. Entire neighbourhoods have been razed, surgeons are operating without anaesthetic, and ice cream trucks have become makeshift morgues. In chaotic scenes, volunteers and neighbours have clawed, sometimes with their bare hands, through shattered concrete and sand to pull out civilian casualties. All too often they recover only corpses that have piled up, wrapped in bloodstained white shrouds. In Brussels on Thursday, European Union leaders debated calling for "pauses" in the war so aid can get in. The 27-nation bloc has long been split between more pro-Palestinian members such as Ireland and Spain, and staunch backers of Israel including Germany and Austria. "What we want is the killing and the violence to stop so that humanitarian aid can get into Gaza, where innocent Palestinian people are suffering, and also to allow us to get EU citizens out," Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said. US President Joe Biden, a strong supporter of Israel, earlier joined the calls for it to "protect innocent civilians" and to follow the "laws of war" as it pursues Hamas. French President Emmanuel Macron warned Wednesday that "a massive intervention that would put civilian lives at risk would be an error." And Jordan's King Abdullah II said anger at the suffering could "lead to an explosion" in the Middle East. 'Raining down hellfire' Netanyahu -- amid the growing calls to temper the ferocious bombing campaign -- said Israel had been "raining down hellfire on Hamas" and killing "thousands of terrorists." He said his war cabinet and the military would determine the timing of a "ground offensive" with the goal to "eliminate Hamas" and "bring our captives home." But he stressed that "I will not detail when, how or how many" forces would take part. Netanyahu also acknowledged for the first time that he would have to explain the security lapses exposed on October 7. "The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me," he said. "But all this will happen later." Biden stressed that "when this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next." He reiterated that Washington supports a two-state solution with independent Israeli and Palestinian states. "It means a concentrated effort for all the parties -- Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, global leaders -- to put us on a path toward peace," Biden said. The war has sparked fears of a regional conflagration if it draws in more of Israel's enemies such as Iran-backed Syria and Hezbollah in Lebanon. There has also been a rise in attacks on Israel's top ally, which has military bases across the Middle East. About 2,500 American troops are stationed in Iraq and some 900 in Syria to help fight remnants of the Islamic State jihadist group. The Pentagon said there were 10 attacks on US and allied forces in Iraq and three in Syria between October 17 and 24, involving a "mix of one-way attack drones and rockets." Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
By Express News Service

This popular Nordic nation to implement Tourist Tax in 2024

Iceland, a beloved Nordic destination known for its stunning landscapes, including hot springs and black sand beaches, is set to introduce a tourist tax in 2024. The move aims to safeguard its pristine environment and align with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality before 2040. The tax, expanding upon a previous accommodation tax suspended during the pandemic, will encompass both cruise ship passengers and hotel guests. Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir expressed the need for this measure to mitigate the environmental impact of tourism. Specific tax amounts and other details are expected in the draft legislation.

Europe to introduce new requirements in early 2025

If youre dreaming of a European getaway in 2025, get ready for some changes. The European Union is set to roll out new travel document requirements in the first half of that year, known as The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Under the ETIAS program, travellers will need to provide essential information like their name, date of birth, nationality and passport details prior to their journey. Theyll also need to answer a few questions about their travel plans and health history. Its crucial to note that ETIAS is not a visa, but it is mandatory for all visa-exempt travelers before departing for Europe by air or sea.

Heres how you can visit six Arabian countries in one go!

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is set to introduce a unified Gulf tourist visa, offering access to six countries. Minister of Economy, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, unveiled the plan, with a roll-out expected between 2024 and 2025. This new initiative aims to boost tourism and foster economic cooperation in the Gulf region. The UAE is gearing up for the influx of travelers, unveiling a seven-emirate tourist route, perfectly aligning with the new visa. This initiative aligns with the GCCs 2030 tourism strategy, set to enhance GDP contributions through increased inter-GCC travel and elevated hotel occupancy rates.

Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp

This popular Nordic nation to implement Tourist Tax in 2024 Iceland, a beloved Nordic destination known for its stunning landscapes, including hot springs and black sand beaches, is set to introduce a tourist tax in 2024. The move aims to safeguard its pristine environment and align with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality before 2040. The tax, expanding upon a previous accommodation tax suspended during the pandemic, will encompass both cruise ship passengers and hotel guests. Prime Minister Katrin Jakobsdottir expressed the need for this measure to mitigate the environmental impact of tourism. Specific tax amounts and other details are expected in the draft legislation. Europe to introduce new requirements in early 2025googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-8052921-2'); }); If youre dreaming of a European getaway in 2025, get ready for some changes. The European Union is set to roll out new travel document requirements in the first half of that year, known as The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Under the ETIAS program, travellers will need to provide essential information like their name, date of birth, nationality and passport details prior to their journey. Theyll also need to answer a few questions about their travel plans and health history. Its crucial to note that ETIAS is not a visa, but it is mandatory for all visa-exempt travelers before departing for Europe by air or sea. Heres how you can visit six Arabian countries in one go! The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is set to introduce a unified Gulf tourist visa, offering access to six countries. Minister of Economy, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, unveiled the plan, with a roll-out expected between 2024 and 2025. This new initiative aims to boost tourism and foster economic cooperation in the Gulf region. The UAE is gearing up for the influx of travelers, unveiling a seven-emirate tourist route, perfectly aligning with the new visa. This initiative aligns with the GCCs 2030 tourism strategy, set to enhance GDP contributions through increased inter-GCC travel and elevated hotel occupancy rates. Follow The New Indian Express channel on WhatsApp
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Noting that China and the United States, as the world's two largest economies, account for more than a third of the global economy and nearly a quarter of the world's population, and bilateral trade accounts for about a fifth of the global total, Xi said the interests of both sides are closely intertwined.

Xi said that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more.

China's policy toward the United States is consistent, which is mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Xi said, adding that China will continue to work in this direction and hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction.

Xi recalled his experience of visiting California and introduced China's green transition and relevant local development, pointing out that the sound development of China-U.S. relations requires pooling the strength of all sides.

The foundation of China-U.S. relations lies among the people, the hope is in the people, the future lies in the youth, and the vitality lies in sub-national areas, Xi said.

Xi noted that he highly values and supports exchanges across various sectors and sub-national cooperation between China and the United States, and expressed the hope that Newsom's visit will enhance mutual understanding and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the sound and steady development of China-U.S. relations.

China and the United States enjoy great potential for cooperation in the fields of promoting green development and addressing climate change. The two sides should strengthen cooperation in this aspect and make it a new highlight in the development of China-U.S. ties, said Xi.

Newsom said that over the past few decades, China has made remarkable achievements in development, especially in the field of new energy in recent years.

No other bilateral relationship is more important than the one between the United States and China, and the U.S.-China relationship is vital to the future of the United States and bears on the well-being of its people, Newsom said.

Newsom said he is willing to push California to strengthen exchanges with China and seek closer cooperation in fields such as climate change and new energy. California is willing to be China's long-term, stable and strong partner, he added.

Senior Chinese official Wang Yi was present at the meeting. 

Editor: JYZ
NCERT panel for replacing India with Bharat in school textbooks

New Delhi, Oct 25

A seven-member National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) panel has recommended to replace India with Bharat in school textbooks, committee chairman C I Issac said.

However, the NCERT said the development of new syllabus and textbooks is in the process and for that purpose various Curricular Area Groups of domain experts are being notified by the NCERT.

"So, it is too premature to comment on the matter," the NCERT said.

The panel has recommended that Bharat should replace India in NCERT books, which has been approved, Issac said.

It has also sought introduction of Indian Knowledge System (IKS) in curriculum for all subjects, and suggested that "classical history" should be introduced in history textbooks, instead of "ancient history".

Padma Shri awardee Issac said that word Bharat finds mention in Vishnu Puran and Sanskrit poet and playwright Kalidas had also used the word Bharat in his works.

He said that the current curriculum details about the country's defeats but not the victories.

Issac said, "why our books did not tell that Indian tribals defeated Afghan invader Muhammad Ghori when he was returning after plundering India."

"The Battle of Colachel (Kulachal) between the Travancore kingdom and the Dutch East India Company in August 1741 which ended Dutch colonial endeavours in the country is missing in the textbooks," he said.

NCERT panel for replacing India with Bharat in school textbooks

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Microsoft Word, a software that transformed the way people type, turns 40

New Delhi, Oct 25

M icrosoft Word, that was initially released under the name 'Multi-Tool Word' and transformed the way people type on PCs and laptops, turned 40 on Wednesday.

The famous software was released on October 25, 1983 before being simplified to Microsoft Word. Copies of the word processing app were bundled in the November issue of the PC World magazine.

The first version of Microsoft Word was developed by Charles Simonyi and Richard Brodie, former Xerox programmers hired by Microsoft Co-founders Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1981.

The first Word version, Word 1.0, was released in October 1983 for Xenix and MS-DOS. The first Windows version was released in 1989, with a slightly improved interface.

When Windows 3.0 was released in 1990, Word became a huge commercial success.

It was then renamed to Word 95 and Word 97, Word 2000 and Word for Office XP (to follow Windows commercial names).

With the release of Word 2003, the numbering was again year-based. Since then, Windows versions include Word 2007, Word 2010, Word 2013, Word 2016, and most recently, Word for Office 365.

In 2014, the source code for Word for Windows in the version 1.1a was made available to the Computer History Museum and the public for educational purposes.

Word 2019 added support for Scalable Vector Graphics, Microsoft Translator, and LaTeX, as well as expanded drawing functionality.

Nowadays, Microsoft Word is bundled in Microsoft 365, a cloud-powered subscription for a variety of Office apps and services.

"Make your words shine with smart writing assistance, helpful document designs, and easy collaboration tools anywhere, anytime," according to Microsoft.

Microsoft Word, a software that transformed the way people type, turns 40

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Washington DC, October 25

R esearchers have devised a novel method for better diagnosing bipolar disorder that employs a simple blood test to identify biomarkers associated with the condition.

The researchers, from the University of Cambridge, used a combination of an online psychiatric assessment and a blood test to diagnose patients with bipolar disorder, many of whom had been misdiagnosed with major depressive disorder.

The researchers say the blood test on its own could diagnose up to 30% of patients with bipolar disorder, but that it is even more effective when combined with a digital mental health assessment.

Incorporating biomarker testing could help physicians differentiate between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, which have overlapping symptoms but require different pharmacological treatments.

Although the blood test is still a proof of concept, the researchers say it could be an effective complement to existing psychiatric diagnosis and could help researchers understand the biological origins of mental health conditions. The results are reported in the journal JAMA Psychiatry.

Bipolar disorder affects approximately one per cent of the population - as many as 80 million people worldwide - but for nearly 40 per cent of patients, it is misdiagnosed as major depressive disorder.

"People with bipolar disorder will experience periods of low mood and periods of very high mood or mania," said first author Dr Jakub Tomasik, from Cambridge's Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology. "But patients will often only see a doctor when they're experiencing low mood, which is why bipolar disorder frequently gets misdiagnosed as major depressive disorder."

"When someone with bipolar disorder is experiencing a period of low mood, to a physician, it can look very similar to someone with major depressive disorder," said Professor Sabine Bahn, who led the research.

"However, the two conditions need to be treated differently: if someone with bipolar disorder is prescribed antidepressants without the addition of a mood stabiliser, it can trigger a manic episode."

The most effective way to get an accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder is a full psychiatric assessment. However, patients often face long waits to get these assessments, and they take time to carry out.

"Psychiatric assessments are highly effective, but the ability to diagnose bipolar disorder with a simple blood test could ensure that patients get the right treatment the first time and alleviate some of the pressures on medical professionals," said Tomasik.

The researchers used samples and data from the Delta study, conducted in the UK between 2018 and 2020, to identify bipolar disorder in patients who had received a diagnosis of major depressive disorder within the previous five years and had current depressive symptoms. Participants were recruited online through voluntary response sampling.

More than 3000 participants were recruited, and they each completed an online mental health assessment of more than 600 questions. The assessment covered a range of topics that may be relevant to mental health disorders, including past or current depressive episodes, generalised anxiety, symptoms of mania, family history or substance abuse.

Of the participants who completed the online assessment, around 1000 were selected to send in a dried blood sample from a simple finger prick, which the researchers analysed for more than 600 different metabolites using mass spectrometry. After completing the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, a fully structured and validated diagnostic tool to establish mood disorder diagnoses, 241 participants were included in the study.

Analysis of the data showed a significant biomarker signal for bipolar disorder, even after accounting for confounding factors such as medication. The identified biomarkers were correlated primarily with lifetime manic symptoms and were validated in a separate group of patients who received a new clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder during the study's one-year follow-up period.

The researchers found that the combination of patient-reported information and the biomarker test significantly improved diagnostic outcomes for people with bipolar disorder, especially in those where the diagnosis was not obvious.

"The online assessment was more effective overall, but the biomarker test performs well and is much faster," said Bahn. "A combination of both approaches would be ideal, as they're complementary."

"We found that some patients preferred the biomarker test because it was an objective result that they could see," said Tomasik. "Mental illness has a biological basis, and it's important for patients to know it's not in their mind. It's an illness that affects the body like any other."

"In addition to the diagnostic capabilities of biomarkers, they could also be used to identify potential drug targets for mood disorders, which could lead to better treatments," said Bahn. "It's an exciting time to be in this area of research."

Simple blood test might help diagnose bipolar disorder: Research

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Washington, DC, October 25

U S President Joe Biden has once again reiterated that antisemitism and Islamophobia should be denounced without equivocation.

In a post on social media platform X, Biden has said, "We must, without equivocation, denounce antisemitism. We must, without equivocation, denounce Islamophobia."

"To all of you hurting: You belong. You're all America," he added.

In his address to the nation in prime time on Thursday (local time), fresh off a wartime visit to Israel, Biden had called for a massive new aid package for Israel and Ukraine and at the same time, has strongly denounced a rise in anti-semitism and Islamophobia in the US.

Speaking from the Oval Office starting at 8 p.m.(local time), Biden made the case to Americans that it's vital to both global and US national security to assist Israel as it responds to terror attacks by Hamas as well as to continue help for Ukraine as it fends off Russian invaders.

"That's why tomorrow I'm going to send to Congress an urgent budget request to fund America's national security needs - needs to support our critical partners, including Israel and Ukraine. It's a smart investment that's gonna pay dividends for American security for generations," Biden said.

"We must, without equivocation, denounce anti-semitism," Biden said.

"We must also without equivocation, denounce Islamophobia. To all of you hurting, those of you hurting, I want you to know: I see you. You belong. And I want to say this to you: You're all American. You're all American," Biden asserted.

Biden also linked the Israeli and Ukrainian war to American national security.

He said that support for both countries Israel as it fights terrorist group Hamas, and Ukraine as it battles Russia will be a "smart investment that's going to pay dividends for American security for generations, help us keep American troops out of harm's way, help us build a world that is safer, more peaceful, more prosperous for our children and grandchildren."

In Tel Aviv earlier this week, Biden pledged unwavering support to Israel but also successfully made the case to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his war cabinet to allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

The national address comes as Biden's team prepares to send a large foreign aid package to Capitol Hill.

US President Joe Biden denounces antisemitism, Islamophobia

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'The Rock' wax statue to be repaired after backlash

Washington, October 25

D wayne Johnson, better known as 'The Rock', has asked the Grevin Museum in Paris to modify his waxwork after backlash over skin tone.

Following the internet's savage mockery of Grevin Museum's waxwork depiction of the actor, Dwayne Johnson took to Instagram to announce that his team would be contacting the institution to request adjustments.

He wrote, "For the record, I'm going to have my team reach out to our friends at Grevin Museum, in Paris France. so we can work on updating my wax figure here with some important details and improvements- starting with my skin colour. And next time I'm in Paris, I'll stop in and have a drink with myself."

https://www.instagram.com/p/CyuCMRXPJk6/

In response to that, the museum has stated on Instagram that they are working on it, as per CNN.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy0spZQKk_o/

According to CNN, the museum was accused of "whitewashing" the actor's image. Johnson's late father, wrestler Rocky Johnson, was of Black Nova Scotian origin, and his mother, Ata Maivia, is Samoan.

According to the museum's original information about the wax figure, "after Dwayne Johnson was chosen at the first edition of the Grevin Awards, sculptor Stephane Barret had to rely on photos and videos to create a statue as close to reality as possible, without the presence of the international star."

'The Rock' wax statue to be repaired after backlash

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New Delhi, October 25

T he Ministry of Education on Wednesday clarified 'mixing science with mythology' on Chandrayaan 3 Special Modules and said that the NCERT has meticulously crafted ten special modules on Chandrayaan-3 which offer a comprehensive overview of various facets of this mission, encompassing scientific, technological, cultural, and social aspects.

It clarified that in light of the rapid advancements and notable milestones achieved at the national level, it becomes imperative to equip our teachers and students with knowledge that transcends traditional textbooks.

This endeavour aims to instill a profound sense of pride in our country and its accomplishments. To achieve this, it is essential to extend our curricular materials beyond textbooks, presenting the nation's achievements in a manner that is both accessible and captivating for our educational community, added the Ministry of Education press release.

"One such monumental achievement is the successful landing of Bharat's Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon on 23rd August 2023. Recognizing the significance of acquainting the 26 crore students in our school education system with this remarkable space initiative of India, NCERT has taken a proactive step in this direction," it added.

Ministry further said that with the aspiration to integrate significant achievements into the curriculum, NCERT has developed pedagogically enriched curricular resources spanning a wide range of themes. These themes include Nari Shakti Vandan (Women's Empowerment), COVID management, Sustainability, Bharat - the mother of democracy, National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the success of Chandrayaan-3, etc.

"The initial theme chosen for the development of these special modules is Chandrayaan-3. NCERT has meticulously crafted ten special modules on Chandrayaan-3. Additionally, they delve into the emotional journey and team spirit of the scientists involved" it added.

Ministry said in a statement that the content within these modules has been thoughtfully designed to be interactive and engaging. It includes graphics, photographs, illustrations, activities, challenging questions, and more. These modules cater to students across the stages of school education, spanning from grades 1 to 12.

Importantly, they have been created with a mindful approach towards the relevance of themes for different stages. The modules feature stories, cases, quiz questions, and activities, all designed to motivate self-paced learning among students and encourage teachers to guide their students through the suggested pedagogy of experiential learning.

"In this endeavour, NCERT has taken specific steps to acknowledge the significant role played by ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) scientists. They have been duly credited and recognized in these modules on Chandrayaan-3. The contributions of renowned scientists such as Dr Vikram Sarabhai, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, Dr S Somnath, Dr K Sivan, Nandini Harinath and many others have been highlighted in different modules at different stages" Education Ministry said.

Additionally, it is essential to emphasize the commitment of the Hon'ble Prime Minister towards space achievements. Recognizing the Prime Minister's unwavering support and encouragement to our scientists can inspire students and motivate them to take an interest in science and technology.

The integration of these significant achievements and the recognition of the collaborative efforts of scientists, engineers, and political leaders, including the Prime Minister, reflect the strength and progress of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant Bharat). This vision, coupled with the revision in the Space policy, has propelled the country towards self-reliance in the field of space exploration.

Mythology and philosophy put forward ideas and ideas lead to innovation and research. Numerous research studies emphasize that mythology plays an indispensable role in the cultural fabric of any country, including Bharat. Furthermore, the integration of culture into education not only fosters a profound understanding of a nation's historical legacy but also bolsters creativity and problem-solving skills among students. It's the whole gestalt of India's association with sky and space.

These modules accessible on the NCERT website, have been launched by the Hon'ble Education Minister in the presence of the Chairman of ISRO. They are made available to students, teachers, and parents with the aim of fostering widespread appreciation and understanding of this historic event.

Through this initiative, NCERT seeks to not only promote scientific temper but also instill a sense of pride, inspiration, and an understanding of our country's achievements among the educational community and the public at large.

Ministry of Education clarifies 'mixing science with mythology' on Chandrayaan 3 Special Modules

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Thimphu, October 25

A fter years of painstaking work and devotion, the ancient monastery of Bhutan, Thubten Choeling Lhakhang--known as Lam Changdhue Drakpa's spiritual seat--has been meticulously restored to its former splendour, according to Bhutan Live.

A magnificent journey that started in 2019 under the guidance of the former Tshogki Lopen, Dorji Rinchen, came to an end with this ceremony.

Je Khenpo presided over the Thubten Choeling Lhakhang's consecration ceremony today in Wangdue Phodrang's Gase Tshogom Gewog, marking a historic occasion.

In Bhutan's rich cultural and religious history, the Thubten Choeling Lhakhang, which dates back to the 15th century, has a special place. Nevertheless, this holy place had suffered damage from time's ravages over the ages. Realising how important it was to preserve this priceless piece of Bhutanese history, the restoration project was started in 2019 and gave the old monastery new life, according to Bhutan Live.

A notable feature of this restoration work is the significant input from Dorji Rinchen, the former Tshogki Lopen.

Along with giving his time and talent, he also contributed a sizeable amount of money to the effort. His generosity and dedication to protecting Bhutan's cultural treasures contributed an amazing 70 per cent of the total budget or 110 million ngultrums. The remaining funding came from government assistance as well as contributions from overseas sources.

Twenty per cent of the funding was contributed by foreign contributors, indicating that Bhutan's rich cultural legacy is recognised internationally. The backing of the restoration project by the Bhutanese government demonstrates their dedication to maintaining the historical and spiritual sites of their country.

Bhutan's unwavering dedication to its cultural history is symbolised by the renovated Thubten Choeling Lhakhang, which now stands as a testament to the harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity.

In addition to commemorating the rebirth of a historical site, this consecration ceremony reaffirms the country's spiritual foundation. This occurrence is significant because it serves as a reminder of the value of protecting cultural assets around the globe, even beyond the boundaries of Bhutan, reported Bhutan Live.

The former Tshogki Lopen, international benefactors, and the Bhutanese government have demonstrated how important it is for us to work together to preserve and develop our common history.

Bhutan: Glory of Thubten Choeling Lhakhang monastery restored after years of effort

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New Delhi, Oct 25

C ommerce Minister Piyush Goyal attended the 7th edition of Future Investment Initiative (FII) meet in Riyadh from October 24 to 25.

He also met several dignitaries from the host country including Saudi Arabian Energy Minister Prince Abdul Aziz Bin Salman Al-Saud, Commerce Minister Majid bin Abdullah AlKassabi, and Investment Minister Khalid Al Falih.

Goyal addressed the 7th Edition of FII in one of the plenary sessions titled "The Coming Investment Mandate".

He also co-chaired a conclave session on the theme From Risk to Opportunity: Strategies for Emerging Economies in the New Industrial Policy Era along with the Saudi Investment Minister.

This was followed by a bilateral meeting where the two ministers deliberated expansion of investment across diverse sectors to foster economic growth and further enhance strategic partnership between the two countries.

Goyal also held bilateral meetings with Saudi Arabian Industry and Mineral Resources Minister Bandar bin Ibrahim AlKhorayef, CEO NEOM Nadhmi Al Nasr, and Governor of Public Investment Fund (PIF) Yassir Rummayyan.

Discussions pertained to improvement in bilateral relations, especially in the field of commerce and industry.

Goyal also took part in the business round table organised at the Federation of Saudi Chambers, and highlighted the multiple opportunities offered by India. The growing trade between the two countries reached an all-time high of $52.75 billion in 2022-23. The conference aimed at further strengthening the economic partnership between the two countries.

The Confederation of Indian Industry and the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce signed a MoU in Goyal's presence to further enhance commercial partnership.

Goyal also met World Bank President Ajay Banga and prominent business leaders on the sidelines of the FII. He held interactive sessions with Indian business leaders and the Indian community in Saudi Arabia, both constituting a respectable part of the Saudi economy.

Saudi Arabia is one of Indias most important strategic partners. The level of cooperation between the two countries can also be witnessed with the establishment of India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC).

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal attends Future Investment Initiative meet in Riyadh, meets Saudi ministers

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Biden, Albanese sign new deal to create more opportunities for American space companies to launch vehicles from Australia

Washington, DC, October 26

A t a joint press briefing with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday, US President Joe Biden said the two countries have signed a new Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) that would create more opportunities for American space companies to launch spacecraft from Australia.

"We're also signing a new Technology Safeguards Agreement to create more opportunities for American space companies to launch vehicles from Australia," Biden said at the joint briefing.

According to a statement released by the White House, the agreement will be carried forward and implemented in a way as to protect sensitive US launch technology and data in Australia, consistent with their shared nonproliferation goals.

"On October 26, the United States and Australia intend to sign a Technology Safeguards Agreement (TSA) that provides the legal and technical framework for U.S. commercial space launch vehicles to launch from Australia in a manner that: protects sensitive U.S. launch technology and data in Australia consistent with our shared nonproliferation goals; and creates the potential for new space-related commercial opportunities," read the statement issued by the White House.

Biden stressed that both countries are planning to invest USD 65 million in support of enhancing secure and resilient connectivity in the Pacific Islands.

"Together, our countries plan to invest a total of $65 million in support of enhancing secure, resilient connectivity in the Pacific Islands by working with Google, APTelecom, and Hawaiki Nui to provide branching units for the Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, Tuvalu and Vanuatu," the US President was quoted as saying further in the statement.

He added that the US was pioneering new advancements and innovations, "deepening our cooperation in fields like biotechnology, advanced batteries, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and a lot more".

He informed that America and Australia have launched a new Artificial Intelligence between the national laboratories of the two countries "to drive revolutionary and responsible research on humanity's biggest challenges--fighting hunger, curbing pandemics, predicting natural disasters, and ending cancer".

"The US National Science Foundation (NSF) and Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) have launched new artificial intelligence (AI) cooperation supported by a combined USD 6.2 million to drive ground-breaking research in responsible and ethical AI solutions to address pandemic preparedness, drought resilience, and other societal challenges," President Biden was quoted as saying further in the White House statement.

Underlining that both nations are accelerating action on climate change, he added, "In May we established a Climate Critical Minerals and Clean Energy Compact to elevate our climate cooperation alongside our defence and economic cooperation."

Biden, Albanese sign new deal to create more opportunities for American space companies to launch vehicles from Australia

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Australia, US oppose Russia's illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine: PM Anthony Albanese at joint briefing with Biden

Washington, DC, October 26

W eighing in on the protracted and ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said both the US and Australia were opposed to Moscow's "illegal and immoral invasion" of the neighbouring country.

"We discussed our joint position opposing Russia's illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine," Albanese said at a joint briefing with US President Joe Biden on Wednesday.

Addressing the joint briefing at the White House, the Australian PM reaffirmed his country's support for Ukraine.

"Australia stands with Ukraine and President Biden welcomed the package of further assistance that I announced yesterday," PM Albanese said, adding that under this package, Ukraine will be provided with additional military assistance.

"This will provide Ukraine with additional military assistance utilising innovative technology," he added.

According to an official statement released by the White House, the alliance between the US and Australia and its stand against "aggression for Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine" or Hamas' attack on Israel could be relied upon to stand up for their common values.

"In today's uncertain world, the alliance between Australia and the United States and the way that we stand steadfast against aggression, whether it be Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine or whether it be Hamas's terrorist attack on Israel, is something that can be relied upon for us to stand up for our common values," the statement read.

Last month, the US warned of more sanctions against Russia and North Korea as Kim Jong Un arrived in Moscow to meet President Vladimir Putin, giving rise to concerns about a possible arms deal between the two countries.

Unfazed by the threat of fresh sanctions, the Kremlin said the Russian economy has adapted well to the Western sanctions and Moscow doesn't fear more such action, Al Jazeera reported.

"Russia has been living under a sanctions regime for quite a long time, for decades, and we have sufficiently adapted to it, so such time horizons as five to 10 years do not scare us," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Tuesday.

On February 25, 2022, a day after Russia launched a military offensive against Ukraine, the European Union introduced wide-ranging sanctions intended to send a clear signal to Moscow that there would be severe consequences for the conflict.

Amid the prevailing conflict with Ukraine and its global fallout, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said while India-Russia ties may not be spectacular they were "exceptional and steady", adding that in many ways Moscow's relationship with the West has "broken down".

"Now, if one looks at Russia today...as a consequence of what is going on in Ukraine...it seems to them clear that in many ways Russia's relationship with the West has broken down," the EAM said at an event during his recent visit to the US.

Australia, US oppose Russia's illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine: PM Anthony Albanese at joint briefing with Biden

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Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday.

The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

He said the two sides have shown mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, made solid progress in cooperation across the board, and constantly deepened friendship between the two peoples.

The establishment of the strategic partnership is the result of the long-term efforts of all sectors of the two countries, and also a natural manifestation of mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides, Xi noted, adding that such a result should be cherished by both sides and continuously enriched and developed.

"China is willing to work with Colombia to promote the China-Colombia strategic partnership to better benefit the two peoples and inject positive energy into world peace and development," he said.

Xi said China supports Colombia's independent exploration of a development path suited to its national conditions, supports the peace process in Colombia, hopes that Colombia can realize comprehensive, lasting and sustainable peace at an early date, and believes that China's high-quality development and modernization process will bring new development opportunities to Colombia and other countries.

China-Colombia relations are based on equality, mutual benefit and win-win results, Xi said, adding that Colombia is welcome to join the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) at an early date to achieve common development and prosperity.

Xi called on the two sides to make good use of the mixed economic and trade committee mechanism, optimize bilateral trade structure, and strengthen cooperation in information, communications, digital economy and other fields. China encourages more high-quality Colombian products to enter the Chinese market, he added.

He also called for joint efforts to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral law enforcement cooperation, expressing hope that Colombia can better ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in the country.

As developing countries, China and Colombia should strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs to safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Xi also said China attaches great importance to developing relations with Latin America and the Caribbean, and is willing to continue to support the regional integration process in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Colombia is willing to maintain communication with China on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, among others, and push for a solution to stop the war and cool down the situation as soon as possible, said Petro, adding that Colombia welcomes the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi, and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral mechanisms.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Editor: ZAD
Trump's ex-attorney Cohen testifies against him, says 'it's about accountability'

New York, Oct 25

F ormer US President Donald Trump's ex-attorney Michael Cohen has testified against him saying it was not "Trump vs Cohen but more about his accountability", as more details emerged on his testimony on the New York Fraud trial case that revealed some Trump projects in Russia.

Cohen told reporters Tuesday he committed crimes such as lying to Congress about a project in Russia at Trump's direction.

"I did it at the direction of, in concert with and for the benefit of Donald J. Trump," Cohen said.

He had also pleaded guilty in November 2018 to lying to Congress about a Trump project in Moscow, a leading US media outlet reported on Wednesday.

He has already testified to Congress about Trump allegedly misstating the value of his real estate even as Trump accused him of being a "proven liar", who was convicted of lying to congress and fraud as an unreliable witness. USA Today reported.

Trump stared down Cohen as he characterised the former president as a racist, cheat who must be held accountable. He reiterated that he, along with his CFO Weiselberg, now in jail, over-estimated the value of Trump's businesses as he pleased.

The number on the value of family assets were fixed by Trump as he would gesture into the and say $6 billion,totally disproportionate to the then current market value of real estate to obtain lower insurance premia and loans from financial institutions, Michael Cohen, the former personal lawyer whom the US media describes as Donald Trump's fixer, who once said he would take a bullet for the president, testified .

"I was tasked by Trump to increase the total assets, based upon a number that he arbitrarily elected," Cohen said.

Asked what that number was, Cohen replied: "Whatever number Trump told us to."

Cohen did not see eye to eye with Trump at the court but focused on lawyer Colleen Faherty who was asking him to testify as a valued witness. Trump shook his head emphatically as Cohen testified that Weisselberg indicated he spoke to the former president's children  Donald Jr., Eric and Ivanka  before preparing their fathers financial statements, media reports said .

Trump would summon Cohen and Weisselberg and say: "I'm actually not worth four and a half billion dollars. I'm really worth more of six."

Cohen said he and Weisselberg would then "inflate the value" of Trump properties by pegging them to "comparable" real estate that was actually different -- brand-new developments with higher ceilings, more sweeping views and no rent regulation, for instance, media reports said

Cohen, who once said he would "take a bullet" for Trump, went to prison after arranging his hush money payments for Trump to an adult film actress Stormy Daniels.

Cohen already testified before Congress in February 2019 that Trump inflated property values to secure loans and insurance premiums. Trump noted as he headed into court that Cohen served prison time after pleading guilty to tax evasion, lying to Congress and campaign finance violations.

"He's a proven liar," Trump told reporters. "I think you'll see that for yourself."

Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron had earlier ruled Trump committed fraud for years. He valued rent-controlled apartments at Trump Park Avenue, where Cohen lives, at millions of dollars disproportionate to their appraised value as they had the potential to be sold later at market-rent units.

Trump's ex-attorney Cohen testifies against him, says 'it's about accountability'

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Mumbai, October 26

A lmost five years after they got married, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh finally shared their wedding video on the first episode of 'Koffee With Karan 8'.

The actor couple appeared on the 'Koffee' sofa of the show hosted by ace filmmaker Karan Johar and revealing details about their marriage, the proposal, and more.

The B-Town couple also treated 'Deepveer' fans with a glimpse of their wedding.

The wedding video was captured by The Wedding Filmers, the same team who shot the wedding sequence in Deepika Padukone's 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani'.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy1W8ZBLF5V/

Taking to Instagram, The Wedding Filmers shared the video and wrote, "During the filming of "Kabira" for "Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani", I had the honor of directing her. On a crisp evening, amidst rounds of Pictionary by the poolside with the crew, she leaned in and said softly, "When the time comes for my wedding, I'd be honored if you would be the one to capture it." I was taken aback, a blush creeping up unnoticed. She held onto that sentiment, gently reminding me of that whispered promise during her wedding film's screening years later."

"Set against the stunning backdrop of Como, The Wedding Filmer had the distinct honor of encapsulating the magical union between Bollywood's icons, Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh. It wasn't just about documenting their wedding day, but rather weaving a tale of love, trust, and commitment. Some stories are so close to the heart that they're held close, and perhaps they wanted this narrative to be theirs alone for a time. As we mark our 13th year in building an industry, releasing this film stands as a testament to our journey and growth. Premiering on the esteemed platform of 'Koffee with Karan', it's not merely a film, but a milestone in our storied legacy.@ranveersingh @deepikapadukone," the post read.

The video started with Ranveer giving a toast at his wedding and revealed that he had once said that he would marry Deepika Padukone and the day had finally come.

From cute moments of 'Deepveer's' weeding, the video also featured bytes from their families talking about Ranveer and Deepika.

Deepika's father and badminton legend Prakash Padukone Prakash Padukone said in the video that Ranveer brings some excitement to their 'boring' family of four.

Ranveer dance at the mehendi ceremony by the lake, Deepika getting ready, the pair exchanging vows at the mandap and their Anand Karaj ceremony- all have been captured in the video.

Not only that, Ranveer is shown waiting outside Deepika's room to see his wife to be before they got married and said "Love you baby".

Deepika also describes why she said yes to Ranveer.

She is heard saying in the clip, "I was attracted to the person that most of the world has not seen. There is a quiet side to him, very intelligent side. There is a sensitive side to him. I love the fact that he cries. I love the fact that he was all heart. "

After watching the video, Karan turned emotional.

https://twitter.com/shortiekiddo28/status/1717274372069532084?

He said, "I just feel like. I am not in a relationship and I am kind of single. It just makes me feel what I am losing out on being in one. Not being in, you feel like, you don't have a partner of your own to share the nothing of your day with. And every day I wake up and a little part of me feels that vacuum. I have my kids and mom but when I see this and I see you. And I know relationships are tough but that soul connection with a person that you can wake up with hold their hand and see your day through tough times. I don't think I have had a moment like this on my own show but I feel like I felt so happy for you and I felt like so alone yet. I hope I have a story to tell like this."

Deepika assured him that he would find someone at the right time.

Karan Johar also inquired if the two were secretly engaged.

To which Ranveer shared, "In 2015, I had proposed to her, iske pehle ki koi aur aa jaye main jaake chappal rakh deta hu."

When asked if she would date Rocky Randhawa, Deepika Padukone replied, "I am married to Rocky Randhawa."

The much-loved couple ceremoniously tied the knot in November 14, 2018 in Italy's Lake Como. The two got married in a traditional South Indian ceremony followed by a North Indian wedding a day after.

The couple has starred together in a number of films including Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Goliyon ki Rasleela Ram-Leela', 'Bajirao Mastani', 'Padmaavat', and others.

Talking about Karan's show, new episodes will be released every Thursday on Disney+ Hotstar.

Deepika, Ranveer unveil precious wedding video at 'Koffee With Karan 8'

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R Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon unveil motion poster of 'The Railway Men', series to release on this date

Mumbai, October 26

M akers of 'The Railway Men' starring R Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon, Divyenndu, and Babil Khan announced the release date of the character-driven series.

Taking to Instagram, streaming platform Netflix shared the motion poster of the characters.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy2Z2yaL73h/

Sharing the poster, they wrote, " The story of humanity's fight in the midst of a tragedy.#TheRailwayMen - a four-episode series inspired by true stories arrives November 18, only on Netflix!"

The four-episode series is directed by debutant director Shiv Rawail, one of YRF's homegrown talents. Set against the backdrop of the Bhopal Gas Leak, the world's worst industrial disaster, and inspired by true stories, 'The Railway Men' is an account of courage and a salute to humanity. It offers a poignant narrative of the unsung heroes - the railway employees of India, who went beyond their call of duty, trying to save the lives of hundreds of innocent citizens trapped in a helpless city.

It stars R. Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon, Divyenndu Sharma and Babil Khan in the lead roles.

In the late hours of December 2, 1984, methyl isocyanate gas leaked from a pesticide factory owned by the American Union Carbide Corporation. It has been reported that more than half a million people were poisoned that night and the official death toll exceeded 5,000.

Thousands of survivors have said they, their children and grandchildren are struggling with chronic health problems like cancer, blindness, respiratory, immune and neurological problems as a result of the leak.

'The Railway Men' is to arrive on Netflix on November 18.

R Madhavan, Kay Kay Menon unveil motion poster of 'The Railway Men', series to release on this date

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Washington DC, October 26

U S President Joe Biden has hinted that one of the reasons behind Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel was the recent announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region with a network of rail, road and ports.

"I'm convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can't leave that work behind," Biden said.

The US President made the remarks during a joint press conference with Australian PM Anthony Albanese on Wednesday (US local time).

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi, India, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

The corridor will encourage and provide impetus to economic development through enhanced connectivity and economic integration between Asia, West Asia, the Middle East and Europe, as per sources.

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor will consist of two separate corridors, the East corridor connecting India to West Asia/Middle East and the Northern corridor connecting West Asia/Middle East to Europe.

It will include a rail line, which upon completion, will provide a reliable and cost-effective cross-border ship-to-rail transit network to supplement the existing multi-modal transport routes enhancing transhipment of goods and services between South East Asia through India to West Asia/Middle East Europe.

Biden recently lauded the corridor and said the project will spur opportunities for investment across two continents.

He said that the rail port project is part of an effort to build a more sustainable, integrated Middle East.

Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war has entered its 20th day.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that his goal against the Hamas war is "saving the nation" and promised that a ground incursion to destroy Hamas in Gaza will start soon, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday.

He said Israel is getting ready for a ground operation, but will not share when or how. He says he will not share the range of considerations involved.

"We are preparing for a ground incursion. I won't specify when, how, how many. I also won't detail the range of considerations, most of which the public is not aware of. And that's the way it is supposed to be. This is the way so that we protect our soldiers' lives."

In an address to the nation, PM Netanyahu said, "Israel is in the midst of a fight for our existence. The war's two aims are "to eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governance capabilities, and to do everything possible to get our hostages back."

Announcement of India-Middle East corridor possible reason for Hamas attack suggests Joe Biden

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KHARTOUM, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on Wednesday announced that their delegations had arrived in Saudi Arabia's port city of Jeddah to resume a new round of negotiations.

"Based on the SAF's belief that negotiation is one of the means that may end the war, we accepted the invitation to go to Jeddah to complete what was previously agreed upon, which is the full implementation of the Jeddah Declaration, to facilitate the humanitarian work and the return of our citizens and normal life to the cities where the rebels wreaked havoc looting, burning, random bombing and raping," the SAF said in a statement, stressing that the resumption of talks does not mean the cessation of armed confrontations against the RSF.

The RSF, for its part, said in a statement on Wednesday that "in response to the invitation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States of America to resume negotiations, our negotiating delegation arrived in Jeddah today."

"We hope that the other party will show credibility, realism, and the will to reach a solution that will stop the war and end the suffering of our people," the statement said.

The RSF further expressed willingness to reach a peaceful settlement for the conflict and achieve the aspirations of the Sudanese people in building the Sudanese state on new foundations and rebuilding one professional national army.

The Jeddah peace talks were suspended in July over fundamental differences between the Sudanese warring parties.

Since May 6, Saudi Arabia and the United States have been patronizing negotiations between the Sudanese warring parties in Jeddah. Several truces have been reached and breached since then, with the two sides accusing each other of violating them.

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 UN International Organization for Migration, nearly 5.8 million people have been displaced inside and outside Sudan due to the prolonged conflict between the SAF and the RSF.

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Hurricane Otis ripped through Mexicos southern Pacific coast as a powerful Category 5 storm, unleashing massive flooding in the resort city of Acapulco, ravaging roads and leaving large swaths of the southwestern state of Guerrero without power or cellphone service
IAEA assessing extent of damage to Khmelnytsky NPP due to fall of two downed Russian drones near it

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is assessing the extent of the damage caused by the fall of two Russian drones shot down by the Ukrainian military on Wednesday night five and 20 kilometers from the Khmelnytsky nuclear power plant (NPP) site.

"The exact extent of the damage is currently being assessed by the IAEA team and further information will be provided," the agency said on its website Wednesday evening.

IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, with reference to information from the plant, said that there was no direct impact from the drones on the site and the blasts did not affect the KhNPP's operations or its connection to the national electricity grid. However, the shockwaves damaged the windows of several buildings at the site, including the passageway to the reactor buildings, an auxiliary building, a special equipment building, the training centre, as well as other facilities.

A power outage in the nearby region of Slavuta forced two of the plant's 11 off-site radiation monitoring stations to temporarily rely on back-up power supplies before external electricity was restored in the afternoon. Furthermore, as a result of damage sustained in the nearby town of Netishyn, some KhNPP staff were working from home.

According to the IAEA Director General, the seismic monitoring stations installed in the vicinity of the KhNPP also recorded the seismic impacts of the blasts.

"The fact that numerous windows at the site were destroyed shows just how close it was. Next time, we may not be so fortunate," Grossi said, stressing that hitting the nuclear power plant must be avoided at all costs.

The IAEA said that the KhNPP has two reactors, of which one is currently operating, and one is in planned outage since early August.

The agency added that the IAEA was notified about these events also via the Unified System for Information Exchange in Incidents and Emergencies by the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine.

As reported, on Wednesday night, Russian troops shelled the area near the Khmelnytsky nuclear power plant. According to the Ministry of Energy of Ukraine, as a result of the blasts, windows in the administrative and amenity and laboratory buildings were damaged. Due to damage to power lines, 1,860 consumers were left without power in the cities of Slavuta and Netishyn, Khmelnytsky region.
The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees has warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply cut back relief operations across the Gaza Strip
When it comes to the architecture of the human genome, it's only a matter of time before harmful genes -; genes that could compromise future generations -; arise in a population. These mutations accumulate in the gene pool, primarily affected by a population's size and practices like marrying within a small community, according to researchers.

But much of the information about the effects of a population's mutation load is based on genetic theory, with limited direct evidence concerning the effects on evolutionary fitness, or fertility.

New research from University of California, Davis, provides rare direct evidence showing that increased homozygosity -; meaning two identical alleles in a genome -; leads to negative effects on fertility in a human population. The paper was published Oct. 17 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences journal.

People have known since Darwin that if you take people who are first cousins and they have children together, the children are more likely to develop certain diseases or be less healthy." Brenna Henn, associate professor of anthropology in the College of Letters and Science at UC Davis

The research assesses the consequences of homozygosity among Namibia's Himba community, an isolated, agro-pastoralist population in which marriage between people with the same ancestor occurs. The research was led by Natalie Swinford, who received her doctoral degree in 2022 in evolutionary anthropology and human population genetics, and Henn.

"They're what we call an 'endogamous population,' meaning people are meeting their partners just from within that Himba group," said Henn. "They also have a unique system of marriage and reproduction, where men and women can have multiple boyfriends or girlfriends during their marriage. That means there are a lot of half-siblings in the population. That's a unique feature and it means that we can leverage that social structure to look at different genetic effects."

Echoes in the genome

In the study, the team gathered genetic data from 681 individuals from the Himba population. Genetic analyses revealed that the Himba have genetic markers that show higher levels of inbreeding.

Known as runs of homozygosity, or ROH, these markers are multiple and particularly long in the genomes of the analyzed Himba, which indicates that their parents had a high likelihood of sharing an ancestor.

While the Himba population has historically exhibited a preference for consanguinity, Henn and Swinford were surprised to find that none of the individuals in their sample population had parents who were actually first cousins. The lengths of the ROH in the genomes indicated otherwise.

The researchers found that these genetic effects can pool and accumulate over time. So, bottleneck events, like a decrease in population that leads to inbreeding, can have genetic echoes that don't manifest until generations later. The researchers concluded that such events occurred within the past 12 to 18 generations of the Himba population.

"People may not be full first-cousins," Henn said. "But they may be half-cousins once removed and then their grandparents might have been half-cousins. Anytime something like that happens, it's going to contribute to there being identical DNA in the offspring."

A negative effect on fertility

The Himba are a pronatalist community, meaning they encourage their members to have many children. Typically, there are short intervals between births, roughly between one and three years, researchers said.

To gauge the effects of long ROH on fertility, the researchers measured the reproductive success of post-reproductive women in their sample population. The researchers defined reproductive success as the number of children who survived to at least 5.

The research team used statistical models to analyze the relationship between the amount of ROH in the genome and the number of children a woman had. They found that the greater the proportion of the genome that was in ROH, the more likely a woman was to have fewer children than a woman who had less ROH.

"This means that a woman who has parents who are more related is more likely to have fewer children throughout her lifetime than a woman who has parents who are less related," said Swinford.

Contributing authors on the paper include S.P. Prall, University of Missouri; S. Gopalan, Duke University; C.M. Williams, Brown University; J. Sheehama, University of Namibia; and B.A. Scelza, University of California, Los Angeles.
English hospital trusts have been accused of using foreign doctors as "cheap labour" as part of fellowship schemes in which they can be paid less than trust-employed doctors and sent home if they become pregnant, an investigation by The BMJ has found.

Foreign doctors come to English hospital trusts as "fellows" as part of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges' Medical Training Initiative (MTI) scheme, explains investigations editor, Madlen Davies.

They work for two years in the NHS to gain experience that they will take back to their home countries afterwards. A proportion of fellows are sponsored, for example by their home country, and others are employed directly by an NHS trust.

According to the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC), there have been 6,986 trainees through the scheme since it began in 2009 from countries including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, India, Egypt, Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.

In some NHS trusts fellows receive the same pay and benefits as trust-employed doctors, but University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust (UHB), Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust have a specific agreement with the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) as part of which The BMJ has found the fellows can be paid less than trust-employed trainees and have fewer benefits.

For example, senior fellows from Pakistan who work at UHB as grade 3 specialty trainee (ST3) registrars or above are paid a stipend which can range from 2700 to 3600 a month by CPSP, the equivalent of 32,400 to 43,200 tax-free a year. They are not guaranteed extra payment for overtime and enhanced hours or on-call work.

UHB would not confirm the exact equivalent salary details of its ST3 doctors, but according to NHS pay scales, ST3 grade doctors employed by the trust were paid 51,017 in 2022/23 and 55,328 a year in 2023/24 as a basic gross salary, excluding any overtime or enhanced hours payments.

ST3 grade doctors in the emergency department at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, including those on an MTI scheme, were paid a gross salary of at least 64,319 after being paid for weekend and on call work in 2022/23, leaving them with 46,358 after tax and national insurance, more than the take home pay of the highest-paid MTI fellow under CPSP's agreement (though this calculation does not take into account pension deductions).

Under the UHB agreement fellows also do not receive paid parental leave. This follows an incident in 2017 in which UHB terminated the contract of a fellow who became pregnant. The urologist, who wanted to remain anonymous, told The BMJ the experience was "traumatic".

The doctor said it was clear from starting the fellowship that "I was not the priority and that the trust's trainees and trust grade doctors were the priority. I was told, you are just to cover the clinics and on calls." There was no enhanced payment for on-call or weekend work, she said. When she fell pregnant, she was sent home. "One lady from the international team seemed angry and said "we don't expect you guys to get pregnant while you're here" and that my fellowship would be terminated. It was a shock to me how she spoke," she told The BMJ.

Michael Newman, an employment lawyer at law firm Leigh Day, described the conditions of the scheme as exploitative, adding that a trust terminating someone's fellowship because they became pregnant and refusing to pay for maternity leave was "outrageous."

One consultant at UHB, who agreed to talk to The BMJ anonymously for fear of repercussions from the trust, said it was using fellows as "cheap labour." Another former consultant at the same trust praised the scheme in terms of the training opportunities but lambasted the lack of equal pay and rights.

In light of The BMJ's findings, CPSP has said it will review and re-write some of its guidelines, but says the scheme, which has seen more than 1000 Pakistani fellows being trained in the UK, has improved healthcare in the country.

A UHB spokesperson said: "Undoubtedly the programme benefits the NHS system, but in return it benefits the overseas healthcare structure. Programmes which encourage the upskilling of medical practitioners from countries with less developed healthcare systems have been described by the WHO as a 'brain gain and not a brain drain'."

An AoMRC spokesperson said: "The issues the BMJ is raising here are very concerning. All doctors should be paid the correct rate for their work, regardless of whether they are on the MTI scheme or not. But this is a matter between the doctor and the NHS organisation that employs them."

Diane Wake, chief executive of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust told The BMJ: "As we do not directly employ staff who are a part of the Medical Trainee scheme, we are therefore not responsible for their remuneration.

"Our Trust has not received any concerns from our MTI colleagues, however, should they have any that they would like to raise with us directly, we would be more than happy to look into them." She added that any overtime would be paid at the bank rates used for all trust medical staff and that fellows all receive 28 days free accommodation on arrival.

Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust said it has recruited three MTI fellows under the CPSP scheme, due to start in November but doesn't have any in post at present. "The job description, person specification and rota patterns have been reviewed and approved by the Dean," a spokesman told The BMJ.
The Western Railway is taking a significant step to enhance Mumbais suburban rail network.

Theyve just announced a ten-hour special traffic block to make way for crucial work on the 6th line that will connect Khar Road and Goregaon stations.

This temporary suspension of services will take place on the night of October 26 and 27, starting at 00.30 am and wrapping up at 10.30 am.

During this special block, suburban services operating between Andheri and Goregaon will be unavailable. Commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly.

The last local train departing from Mumbai CSMT for Goregaon will leave at 22.54 pm on October 26, while the last train from Goregaon to Mumbai CSMT will depart at 12.07 am on October 27.

Upon completion of the traffic block, the first suburban train heading to Goregaon from Mumbai CSMT is expected to leave at 11.16 am. Simultaneously, the first local train from Goregaon to Mumbai CSMT will commence at 11.23 am.

Earlier this week, the Western Railway had already disclosed the cancellation of nearly 2,525 local train services until November 6, owing to ongoing construction work initiated on October 7 for the 6th line between Khar and Goregaon stations. Among these cancellations, 230 to 316 Up (towards Churchgate) and Down (towards Virar/Dahanu) suburban trains will be affected daily. Furthermore, 93 locals will be canceled on November 4, and 110 on November 5.

The Harbour Line, under the administration of the Central Railways, is undergoing these critical enhancements, which are being executed by the Western Railway. This project aims to ensure a complete separation between mail or express trains and local trains, thereby enhancing the carrying capacity of the local train network.

The 30-kilometer extension of the 6th line, stretching from Mumbai Central to Borivli, is projected to cost Rs 918 crore, according to reports from Times of India.
An elderly man from south Mumbai was allegedly duped to the tune of Rs 4.35 crore by a cyber fraudster, who told him that he was entitled to get a Provident Fund corpus of Rs 11 crore, police said on Thursday.

The incident surfaced when the 71-year-old mans wife filed a complaint with the Cuffe Parade police station, as disclosed by an official to the news agency PTI.

In her complaint, she said she received a call from a woman in May this year. The caller claimed that she was speaking from the Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). In order to win the victims trust, the caller provided all relevant information about the complainants husband to her, PTI quoted the official as saying.

The caller also told the complainant that her husbands company had deposited Rs 4 lakh in his EPF account for a period of 20 years and he is now entitled to get the maturity amount of Rs 11 crore, the official said.

The complainants husband earlier worked in a prominent Information Technology (IT) services and consulting company. After his retirement, the couple had withdrawn invested funds post-maturity.

The caller then asked the woman to deposit money required towards the payment of TDS, GST and income tax. Believing her, the woman transferred money into the bank accounts as per her instructions from time to time, he said.

This way, the accused woman duped the couple to the tune of Rs 4.35 crore. The victim was asked to transfer money on several occasions between May and September under various pretexts. But when the caller kept demanding more money, the couple told her that they did not have any more funds, the official added.

The caller woman then started threatening that she would inform the IT department, he said.

After they realised that they had been duped, the couple approached the police and lodged a complaint on Tuesday, he said.

Based on the complaint, a first information report (FIR) under Indian Penal Code (IPC) sections 384 (extortion), 419 (cheating by personation), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and various sections of the I-T Act, including identity theft was filed.

A probe in the case is underway.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Indias largest IT services company, has received a notice from Maharashtras labour and employment ministry regarding the companys delay in onboarding lateral recruits, according to a Business Standard report. The complaint was filed by the Pune-based IT employees union, Nascent Information Technology Employees Senate (NITES), in July 2023.

According to the NITES complaint, more than 200 employees have been impacted by the delay in lateral recruitment.

Maharashtras labour ministry in its notice said, A joint meeting between the company and the complainant will be held to address the issue on November 2, 2023, at noon.

The NITES in the notice also said a company representative with valid documents should be present at the meeting venue.

NITES President Harpreet Saluja in a statement said, NITES has drawn attention to the plight of these employees who, in good faith, resigned from their previous positions after receiving employment offers and joining dates from TCS. These professionals, with varying experience levels ranging from 1.8 to 15 years, now find themselves without a source of income, facing financial distress, and unable to meet family responsibilities.

He also said the number has now reportedly exceeded 2,000. However, the number could not be confirmed independently.

According to the Business Standard report quoting one affected individual, I have completed all interview rounds, and the human resource (HR) department sent me the salary breakdown via email for acknowledgement. I accepted the salary terms, and HR said they would release the offer letter within a week. Its been four months, and despite numerous calls to HR, they claim its on hold and will take more time. I have already resigned and am now unemployed because of TCS.

During the September 2023 quarter, TCS headcount fell by 6,333. Its total number of employees as of September 30 this year stood at Rs 608,985, compared with 6,15,318.

Its IT services attrition on the last-twelveth-month stood at 14.9 per cent during the September 2023 quarter, which is lower than in previous quarters.

On the hiring plans, TCS Chief Human Resources Officer Milind Lakkad in an analysts call post Q2 results on October 11 said, Our strategy of proactively hiring bright freshers and investing in training them with the right skills is paying off now. With that talent coming on stream and with reduced attrition, we were able to recalibrate our gross additions, keeping it below the departures during the quarter, driving the productivity, and enhancing project outcomes.

Though he did not explicitly say if the company visiting campuses for hiring or not, the company is calibrating its hiring plans.
Reversing a UPI (Unified Payments Interface) payment can be a complex process, and its important to note that the ability to reverse a payment depends on various factors, including the policies of the bank or payment service provider involved.

Also Read: UPI vs UPI Lite: Know Difference, Transaction Limit & Other Key Details

Its crucial to act promptly in case of any issues and to keep detailed records of the transaction, including transaction IDs, dates, and amounts. Note that the success of reversing a UPI payment depends on the specific circumstances and the policies of the banks or UPI service providers involved. Always refer to the terms and conditions provided by your bank or the UPI service for accurate information.

Anup Nayar, CEO- Domestic, In- Solutions Global, said that UPI transactions are typically considered final, but there are situations where you can request a reversal or dispute a transaction, such as accidental transfers or unauthorised transactions.

Nayar suggested that its essential to act promptly, contact your bank or UPI service provider, and provide detailed information for the reversal.

You may need to reverse a UPI payment in the following cases:

You accidentally sent money to the wrong UPI ID or mobile number.

You made an unauthorised payment.

The transaction was fraudulent.

The recipient has not accepted the payment yet.

Technical glitch as the transaction failed or was declined.

Reporting fraud to BHIM/NPCI customer care is important in case of fraudulent transactions. However, theres no guarantee of a successful reversal. To avoid such situations, its crucial to follow precautions like verifying recipient details, entering the correct amount, and being cautious with unknown merchants, Nayar said.

Contacting customer support before a transaction can also prevent errors and unauthorised transfers. Following these precautions can help reduce the likelihood of needing to reverse a UPI transaction.

It is important to note that not all UPI transactions can be reversed. For example, if the recipient has already accepted the payment, it may not be possible to reverse the transaction.

If you need to reverse a UPI payment, you should contact your bank or UPI service provider as soon as possible. The sooner you report the issue, the more likely it is that the transaction can be reversed.

If you are unsure whether or not you can reverse a UPI payment, it is always best to contact your bank or UPI service provider for assistance.

If you are unable to reverse the UPI transaction through your bank or UPI service provider, you can file a complaint with the NPCI. It is the umbrella organisation that operates the UPI system.

If your bank is unable to resolve the issue, you can also escalate the matter to the banking ombudsman or relevant regulatory authorities, depending on your jurisdiction. Keep in mind that policies and procedures may vary between banks and UPI service providers.

UPI is a very popular payment method in India, and it is used by millions of people every day. It is convenient, fast, and secure, making it a great option for making payments both online and offline.

It is a real-time payment system developed by NPCI. It allows users to transfer money between bank accounts instantly and free of charge using a mobile device.

To make a UPI payment, users simply need to enter the recipients VPA and the amount of money they want to send. They will then be prompted to authenticate the transaction using their mobile banking PIN or biometrics. Once the transaction is authenticated, the money will be transferred instantly to the recipients bank account.
Infosys founder N R Narayana Murthy has said that in order for India to compete with economies that have made tremendous progress in the past 2-3 decades, youngsters need to work 70 hours a week. Murthy appeared on the first episode of 3one4 Capitals podcast The Record, which was released on YouTube today.

In the podcast, Murthy in conversation with former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai talked about nation-building, technology and his company Infosys, among other topics.

He said Indias work productivity is among the lowest globally, and the countrys youth need to put in extra hours of work  like Japan and Germany did after World War 2  in order to compete with countries like China.

Indias work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve our work productivity, unless we reduce corruption in the government at some level, because we have been reading I dont know the truth of it, unless we reduce the delays in our bureaucracy in taking this decision, we will not be able to compete with those countries that have made tremendous progress, he said.

He said the countrys youth must say that this is my country. I would like to work 70 hours a week.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as an indispensable component of our daily lives, with AI-driven applications such as Chat GPT significantly simplifying various tasks. The growing influence of AI has given rise to an expanding job market in this field. Consequently, there is a burgeoning interest in pursuing careers in artificial intelligence and machine learning. A notable development in this regard is the launch of an AI and machine learning course by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur.

IIT Kanpurs recently introduced professional certificate course in AI and machine learning extends for 11 months and will be delivered in an online bootcamp format. The admission deadline for this course is October 25, making it crucial for prospective candidates to visit the IIT Kanpur website at https://ifacet.iitk.ac.in/ for prompt registration.

The course fee for the Professional Certificate Course in AI and Machine Learning is outlined at Rs 1,53,400, as per information available on IIT Kanpurs official website.

Eligibility criteria for admission into the program include a minimum of 50% fee payment, a bachelors degree with a score of 100 marks, and proficiency or experience in programming and mathematics. Additionally, individuals seeking admission should ideally have a work history of over two years within an organization.

The program caters to a wide range of professionals, with software engineers, IT professionals, product managers, data professionals, and consultants being among the primary beneficiaries of this course.

Upon successful completion of the professional certificate course in artificial intelligence and machine learning, graduates can expect diverse job opportunities with an average salary package ranging from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 20 lakh, as reported by IIT Kanpur.

The expanding scope of AI and machine learning, coupled with the substantial growth in job opportunities, makes courses like the one offered by IIT Kanpur an attractive option for individuals looking to embark on a rewarding career in this cutting-edge field.

In an age driven by digital transformation and technological innovation, the adoption of AI and machine learning is expected to continue to surge, ensuring that the demand for skilled professionals in this area remains robust.
The Uttar Pradesh Joint Entrance Examination Council is likely to release the seat allotment result for the 8th round of counselling for the UP Joint Entrance Examination (JEECUP) 2023 today, October 26 on their website jeecup.admissions.nic.in. Applicants must secure their seats and submit the acceptance fee from October 27 to 28. Document verification will also occur on those same dates. Students need to arrive at their assigned college by October 30. Students who have been admitted can choose to withdraw between October 31 and November 1.

The authority for admissions has stated that the seats assigned in the JEECUP 2023 round 8 will be automatically reserved. To secure their seats, candidates must pay a fee of Rs 3,250 for seat acceptance and counselling.

JEECUP Counselling 2023 Round 8: Important Dates

Those candidates who have registered for JEECUP Polytechnic 2023 round 8 counselling can go through the dates in the table mentioned below:

Announcement of seat allotment result  October 26

Online Freeze all candidates and online Fee Deposit for Seat Acceptance fee  October 27 to 28

Document Verification at the district Help Centres  October 27 to 28

Round 8th balance fee deposit (only for Freeze candidates)  October 27 to 29

Reporting of all candidates in their allotted polytechnic  Up to October 30

JEECUP Counselling Round 8 Result 2023: How to Download

Candidates can go through the below-mentioned step-by-step process to download their seat allotment results:

Step 1: Navigate to the official website  jeecup.admissions.nic.in

Step 2: Then, on the homepage, tap on the direct link to check the JEECUP round 8 seat allotment result.

Step 3: A fresh login window will appear on the display.

Step 4: Fill out the required details to view the result.

Step 5: The JEECUP Polytechnic round 8 counselling 2023 result will appear on the screen.

Step 6: Carefully, go through the allotment result and download it.\

JEECUP Counselling Round 8: Documents Required

During the verification process, candidates will need to provide the following documents:

 JEECUP admit card

 JEECUP 2023 rank card

 JEECUP counselling allotment letter

 Qualifying examination mark sheets and certificates

 Character certificate

 Migration certificate (if applicable)

 Reservation certificate (if applicable)

 Two photographs

 Domicile certificate

 Two sets of photocopies of the above-mentioned documents.

The council announced that candidates who passed the JEE Main 2023 but werent assigned engineering college seats can still get admission. Additionally, candidates from other states can also take part in this round of counselling.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine has confirmed information about 21 Ukrainians killed in Israel, as well as three killed in the Gaza Strip, spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Oleh Nikolenko told Interfax-Ukraine.

"Unfortunately, the number of victims among Ukrainians in Israel has increased. In total, we now have confirmed information about 21 dead Ukrainians, as well as one missing. In the Gaza Strip three dead (two children and an adult), as well as six wounded, of which three are children," Nikolenko said.

According to him, citizens have injuries of varying severity and are receiving medical assistance.
The PhD admission exams for Delhi University (DU), Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU) are scheduled to be administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA) starting today, October 26. The NTA Ph.D 2023 admission test is scheduled to run through October 26, 27, 30 and 31. On the official website, phd-entrance.samarth.ac.in, candidates who are looking to take the NTA PhD entrance test can get their hall tickets. It is recommended that applicants who have enrolled for the exam arrive on time and remember to bring their admit card.

The NTA Ph.D 2023 entrance test will consist of two sections and be administered online in a computer-based test mode. English comprehension, logical thinking, and numeric ability are all tested in Part A of the general aptitude exam. The questions in Part B will be centred on the subject the applicant has chosen. According to the NTA Ph.D 2023 exam evaluating approach, a candidate receives four marks for each right response. However, every wrong response marked in the NTA Ph.D 2023 entrance test will result in a deduction of one mark, and questions that remain unanswered will not receive any marks.

NTA Ph.D 2023 Entrance Exam: How to download

The NTA PhD admit card 2023 may be downloaded by candidates by following the easy steps provided below.

Step 1: Go to phd-entrance.samarth.ac.in, the NTA PhDs official website.

Step 2: Select the NTA Ph.D 2023 Admit Card tab from the webpage.

Step 3: Your screen will display a login portal.

Step 4: Enter your login information, which include your Application Number and Date of Birth.

Step 5: Complete the necessary fields and press submit. It will show your admission card on the screen.

Step 6: Download the NTA PhD 2023 Admit Card and make sure to print a copy of it for your records.

NTA Ph.D 2023 Entrance Exam: Entrance Exam Guidelines

 A valid NTA PhD 2023 admit card is required to be carried to the exam venue on the days of the test.

 Candidates must bring their admit card as well as a valid govt ID, to the test centre for identification of the candidate.

 Candidates must arrive at the exam venue at least one hour in advance in order to conduct facial and biometric authentication.

 It is completely forbidden to bring any electronic devices inside the exam centre.

 Strict measures will be implemented if a candidate turns out to be in possession of any electronic device.
The dates for assembly polls in five states  Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Mizoram  have been announced by the the Election Commission of India (ECI) and now its time for political parties to go all out to woo voters.

The assembly elections will be held in Madhya Pradesh on November 17, Chhattisgarh on November 7 and 17, Rajasthan on November 25 (updated), Telangana on November 30, and Mizoram on November 7. The results of all the five states will be declared on December 3.

The terms of the legislative assemblies in Telangana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh are set to conclude on various dates in January 2024, while the term of the Mizoram Legislative Assembly will end on December 17 this year.

A look At Some of The Latest Updates

Rajkummar Rao is ECs Face

Election Commission of India to appoint renowned Actor Shri Rajkummar Rao as its National Icon.

Kamal Nath To File Nomination

Senior Congress leader Kamal Nath files nomination from Chindhwara, followed by a huge rally on Thursday.

MP Elections: Shivraj Slams Digvijaya for Nautanki Jibe

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Tuesday hit back at Congress leader Digvijaya Singh for terming him a dramatist after he performed the kanya pujan ritual as part of Navratri festival.

Chouhans criticism drew a stinging reaction from state Congress president Kamal Nath who accused the CM of playing vote politics even on sacred spiritual work like Kanya Puja.

The chief minister also asked the Congress leadership to clear its stand on the Sanatan sanskar of worshipping girls in the form of Goddess, which is a tradition followed in many parts of the country to mark Navmi or the ninth day of Navratri.

Rajasthan Polls: Rs 244 Crore Cash Seized in Last 15 Days

Ahead of the Assembly elections in Rajasthan, enforcement agencies have seized Rs 244 crore cash in the last 15 days, officials said on Tuesday.

A strict vigil is being maintained by the police, excise, income tax and other enforcement agencies and a new record has been made in the seizure of illegal cash, liquor, drugs, gold, silver etc. The total seizure figure has crossed Rs 1,000 crore in 2023, officials said.

According to officials, this year there has been a three-fold increase in the total seizure, which was Rs 322 crore in 2021, Rs 347 crore in 2022 and Rs 1,021 crore so far in 2023.

MP Elections: Nath Promises Revival of Sri Lanka Sita Temple Project

Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Kamal Nath on Tuesday said if voted to power in the assembly elections, the Congress will revive the project to construct Sitamata temple in Sri Lanka even as he made a string of promises mostly concerning Hindu community.

He also said the new government will be committed to the upliftment of faith and culture in the state.

Wishing people on the occasion of Dussehra, the former chief minister also promised an increase in the honorarium of Hindu priests besides providing them insurance cover in a move to counter the Hindutva plank of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday asked the Central government not to conduct any activities related to the proposed Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra in the five election-bound states and Nagalands Tapi constituency till December 5 as provisions of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) are in place.

In a letter to Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, the poll body said that it has been brought to its notice that a letter has been circulated to the ministries for the nomination of senior officers as District Rath Praharis as special officers for the yatra, starting from November 20. Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is a mega outreach programme on schemes and initiatives by the government.

In the letter, the poll body said that it has been brought to its notice that a letter has been circulated to the Ministries for the nomination of senior officers as District Rath Praharis as special officers for the proposed Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra starting from November 20.

The ECI has announced the schedule for assembly elections in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan, and Telangana along with a bye-election in the Tapi Assembly in Nagaland on October 9.

The provisions of the Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of political parties and candidates have come into force from the date of announcement tentatively till 5 December 2023. In view of the foregoing, the Commission has directed that the aforesaid activities should not be taken in the constituencies where Model Code of Conduct is in force up till 5th December 2023, the ECI wrote.

Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra

The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra will be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Khunti in Jharkhand next month. It will be flagged off on the birth anniversary of freedom fighter Birsa Munda which is celebrated as Janajatiya Gaurav Divas on November 15. It will go on until January 25.

It is aimed at the vulnerable group who are eligible for benefits under various government schemes but were yet to receive any.

As part of the outreach programme, more than 2,500 mobile performing vans and over 200 mobile theatre vans will be pressed into service to cover nearly 2.55 lakh Gram panchayats and clusters in all cities and towns of India. These vans will be branded with different government schemes.

The event has been conceptualised with the Ministry of Agriculture as the nodal ministry for the rural campaign and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting in urban campaign.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma for allegedly making communal remarks during an election campaign in Chhattisgarh.

Attacking the lone Muslim minister and Congress MLA Mohammad Akbar, Sarma had last week said that the land of Maa (Mother) Kaushalya will get defiled if Akbar isnt sent off as soon as possible.

The ECI, in its notice, asked the BJP leader to respond by 5 pm on Monday as to why appropriate action for violation of the Model Code of Conduct should not be taken against him.

The poll body said that it received a complaint on October 19 from the Congress that Sarma, in a public meeting at Kawardha in Chhattisgarh on October 18, allegedly made communally charged statements against Akbar.

In the notice, the poll body said that after it announced elections in five states, the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates have come into force. The ECI found Sarmas speech prima facie violative of the provision of the MCC and RP Act, 1951.

Clause 1 of Part I General Conduct of Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of Political Parties and Candidates provides that No party or candidate shall include in any activity which may aggravate existing differences or create mutual hatred or cause tension between different castes and communities, religious or linguistic, the ECI order reads.

It also reminded Sarma that Clause 2 of Part I General Conduct of Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of Political Parties and Candidates provides that criticism of other political parties, when made, should be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work.

Parties and Candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided.

WHAT HAS SARMA SAID?

The ECI said that it has received a video along with the complaint and they found Sarma saying If one Akbar comes to a place, dont forget that he invites 100 more Akbars. So, send him off as soon as possible, otherwise the land of Maa Kaushalya will get defiled.

Sarma went on to say that love jihad started during the Congress rule. Today, the tribal of Chhattisgarh and Assam are being provoked and encouraged for religious conversions every day. When someone raises their voice against it, (outgoing Chhattisgarh chief minister) Bhupesh Baghelji says we are secular. Is beating up and killing Hindus your secularism? This country is a country of the Hindus and belongs to Hindus. Do not teach us this secularism, Sarma said in Hindi.

The Assam Chief Minister also said that to protect the state, people have to elect Vijay Bhaiya. BJP has fielded Vijay Sharma against Akbar.

WHATS NEXT?

If Sarma fails to reply to the ECI by the said time, the ECI will presume that he has nothing to say in the matter and the Election Commission will take appropriate action or decision in the matter without making any further reference

Elections to the 90-member Chhattisgarh assembly will be held in two phases  on November 7 and 17.
Former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot on Thursday alleged that the Enforcement Directorate action against Congress leaders in Rajasthan was "politically motivated" and an indication that the BJP is trailing in all five poll-bound states. Coming as it does on the eve of polls, the timing of the ED action, its intent, and objective were suspect, he said.

Turning the heat on the ruling Congress in poll-bound Rajasthan, the ED Thursday raided the premises of state Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra in Jaipur and Sikar as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case and summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlots son in a foreign exchange violation case.

Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Pilot said, "Elections are set to take place in Rajasthan in a few days from now and the Model Code of Conduct is in place but the timing, intent, and objective of the government of India agencies' action in various places in Rajasthan is suspicious."

"The agencies are being misused constantly and this is well known. The way the agencies have been let loose in Rajasthan before polls to intimidate Congress leaders, the country and the state are watching," he said. The Congress is against corruption and in favour of action being taken if there is an impartial inquiry and any evidence is found, but the government is specifically targeting leaders without any facts seeing an "imminent defeat" of the BJP in the upcoming polls in Rajasthan, Pilot said.

"This is to give a message that if the BJP becomes weaker politically it will misuse various agencies and intimidate people. The Congress opposes thisThe BJP is trailing in all five states and today's action is a clear indication of that," he said.

Coming out strongly in defence of his bete noire Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav, Pilot said the CM's son had himself pointed out that this was a 12-year-old matter. "Everyone knows what is the intention behind this (ED action) on the eve of election. Agencies are being used as a political weapon is a negative indicator in democracy," he said.

"We will fight this election robustly and win this election in Rajasthan," Pilot asserted. He condemned the ED action and said it is politically motivated.

Asked about the BJP's charge that Congress leaders were politicising the ED raids, Pilot said, "The one who is politicising the entire institutions of this country is the ruling dispensation. It is the BJP that has made it a habit of using government agencies as a weapon and a tool to target and harass and intimidate leaders of the opposition.

"Now when they feel that they cannot win the elections through the mandate of the people of the area, they engage these agencies. They are fearful of the fact that they may not win the mandate as they hope to. In all the five states, the Congress is doing exceedingly well and I am happy to report that all these intimidating tactics will not work," Pilot said.

"We must take inspiration from Rahul Gandhi who has faced all these challenges. Nothing for the Congress leaders to fear or be intimidated," he said. Congress leader Sachin Pilot also condemned the ED action and said the leaders and workers of the state Congress are standing together in solidarity.

"I strongly condemn the ED raid on Rajasthan Congress State President Govind Singh Dotasara. ED summon has also been given to Vaibhav Gehlot, son of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot," he said in a post on X. He said the BJP cannot scare Congress leaders with such tactics.

"BJP's nervousness is clearly visible due to such action because the public has made up its mind to bring the Congress government back in Rajasthan in the upcoming elections," he added. Elections are set to take place in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram and Telangana.
Kota has been in the news for student suicides but in election season, it is the Rs 1,400 crore Chambal riverfront project here that is at the centre of a political storm.

The mega project opened for public viewing this September but immediately came into controversy as Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot did not turn up for its inauguration though his visit was announced. Locals say this was because Gehlot realised that the project was built without taking any environmental clearance for it.

Shanti Dhariwal, the multiple-time MLA from Kota (North) and Rajasthans Urban Development Minister, hence finds himself in trouble. Dhariwals ticket from Kota (North) has not been announced so far, with Congress sources claiming the high command has vetoed it. The Chambal riverfront is Dhariwals signature project.

If illegal work is done by me then the law should stop me. But if lawmakers do such a job, who will stop them? This riverfront is an illegal project, former BJP MLA from Kota (North) Prahlad Gunjal told News18. He is the one who exposed the matter, saying no environmental clearance has been sought for the project built on the wetland of a river.

Not even one application was moved and no environment and wildlife clearance was taken. I told the chief minister that this was illegal and he should take action. There is a 10-km buffer zone as it is a crocodile sanctuary. Every rule was violated. There are multiple Supreme Court and high court judgments. The chief minister cancelled his trip because of this. Dhariwals image has seen a dip in the city. That is why he is not being given a ticket. Rahul Gandhi thinks Dhariwal is not clean  he received complaints against him during his Bharat Jodo Yatra, says Munjal.

Public Swears by Dhariwal

However, Kota locals marvel at the beauty of the new project which has many highlights like the famous Singh Ghat and the tallest marble statue in the country of Chambal Mata. The riverfront opens for public viewing daily at 4 pm but people line up much early for entry.

It is a beautiful project and has enhanced the grandeur of Kota. We do not care if it is legal or illegal. Even if corruption is involved, who does not eat money? Raghuvansh Singh, a local, asked News18. He said Dhariwal remains popular.

Most locals speak highly of Dhariwal, crediting him for turning Kota into a city which has not even a single traffic light and smooth traffic. They say the real reason for Dhariwal not getting a ticket so far is his rebellion last year when he resigned along with other MLAs against the high commands move to make Sachin Pilot the chief minister. Muddai lakh bura chahe toh kya hota hai, wohi hota hai jo manzoore Sonia Gandhi hota hai, Dhariwal had famously said after the developments last September.

So will Kota see Dhariwal contesting from his stronghold or can the BJP register a win from Kota (North)? We will know on December 3.
A live television news debate in connection with the Telangana assembly elections turned ugly when a scuffle broke out between a ruling party MLA and his BJP candidate. In a viral video, the BRS legislator is seen holding his rival by the throat as police and others intervene to separate them.

Ugly scenes during a Live TV debate show in #Telangana. Sitting #BRS MLA and Quthbullapur AC candidate KP Vivekanand Goud attacked former MLA and #BJP candidate Kuna Srisailam Goud. #TelanganaAssemblyElections2023 pic.twitter.com/lCjUISCINx Ashish (@KP_Aashish) October 25, 2023

The incident took place on Wednesday (October 25), following which state BJP president G Kishan Reddy alleged that KP Vivekanand  BRS MLA from Quthbullapur in Hyderabad  attacked Kuna Srisailam Goud, who is the BJP candidate from the constituency, as he was unable to answer the question posed by his rival.

Vivekanand lost his temper and grabbed Gouds neck after the BJP leader made some derogatory remarks, calling the MLA a land grabber. During the open debate, the two had an argument and, on Gouds remarks, Vivekanand moved towards him, grabbed him by the neck and pushed him.

This incident during the news debate caused chaos as supporters of both the leaders were present, and started breaking through the barricades and throwing around chairs when they were stopped from moving towards the stage.

The BJP condemned the attack and said it reflected the frustration within the BRS about an impending loss. Union minister Reddy said the police should book the BRS MLA, failing which the BJP will take it up legally.

When contacted, BRS spokesperson Sravan Dasoju alleged that Goud made a reference to the BRS MLAs father though both were supposed to maintain decency and decorum during the debate. Both of them are supposed to have maintained decency, decorum, and be restrained. Goud should not have driven the debate attacking Vivekanands parents in the first place and the ruling party MLA should not have attacked his rival. Both could have been sensible and realised the whole world is watching them, he said.

Elections for the 119-member Telangana legislative assembly will be held on November 30.

(With PTI inputs)
The Election Commission of India (ECI) on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her envelop remarks related to Prime Minister Narendra Modis temple visit. The party general secretary has been asked to respond to the notice by October 30 evening.

In its notice, the poll body said that the relation between an individual and a deity cannot be a matter of public scrutiny and her statement diminishes the devotee in the general estimation of the public.

The Commission issued the notice as it received a complaint on October 21 from the Leader of Opposition in the Rajasthan Assembly and from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on October 25. The complaint stated that during a public meeting in Dausa on October 20, Vadra made false statements in respect of PM Modi.

It has been alleged that you have invoked the personal religious devotion of the Prime Minister. Further, it is averred that the relation between an individual and deity cannot be a matter of public scrutiny and your statement diminishes the devotee in the general estimation of the public, the ECI said.

The poll body reminded that the provisions of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) for political parties and candidates have come into force since October 9 when they announced election dates for five states.

They cited clause 2 of Part I General Conduct of Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of Political Parties and Candidates provides that, Criticism of other political parties, when made, shall be confined to their policies and programme, past record and work. Parties and Candidates shall refrain from criticism of all aspects of private life, not connected with the public activities of the leaders or workers of other parties. Criticism of other parties or their workers based on unverified allegations or distortion shall be avoided.

The ECI also cited clause 3 of Part I General Conduct of Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of Political Parties and Candidates provides that says there should be no appeal to caste or communal feelings for securing votes. Mosques, Churches, Temples or other places of worship shall not be used as a forum for election propaganda.

WHAT VADRA HAS SAID?

The ECI quoted the video speech where she can be heard telling a public meeting in Dausa on October 20 that she saw it on TV that when an envelop of donation made by PM Modi at a temple was opened, it carried only Rs 21.

You must have seen it. I saw it on TV, not sure if it is true or not. Some time ago, (Prime Minister) visited Devnarayan jis temple. Gave an envelope there. Now I saw on TV that after six months the envelope given by the Prime Minister was opened. People were thinking about what will be in that envelope given by the Prime Minister Only Rs 21 was found, ECI quoted her in Hindi.

She added that in a way, a similar thing is happening in the county.

Big promises are made from stages. Various envelopes are being shown. But post elections, when these envelopes are opened, and it is time to show work there is nothing, she said.

WHATs NEXT?

The Congress leader has to reply by Monday as to why appropriate action for violation of Model Code of Conduct should not be taken against her.

In the event of no response from your side within the stipulated time, it will be presumed that you have nothing to say in the matter and the Election Commission will take appropriate action or decision in the matter without making any further reference the ECI added.

Rajasthan is all set to go for polls on November 25. Counting of votes will be done on December 3.
Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan held a meeting in the national capital with the top brass of the BJP to seal the deal for battleground Telangana ahead of the upcoming polls, top sources confirmed to News18, adding that Kalyan and his party leaders returned from Delhi on Tuesday night.

A Jana Sena source told News18 that a decision on the number of seats that Kalyans party will contest on in the upcoming polls with BJP is likely to be finalised in the next couple of days. Within the next two or three days, we will know what shape this alliance will take. But in principle, the two parties have decided to form an alliance, the source said.

Pawan Kalyans party, which is in an alliance with the BJP in the neighbouring Telugu state of Andhra Pradesh, is likely to have an influence on close to 25 seats. These are the seats in the GHMC region and districts of Khammam and Nalgonda.

Pawan Kalyan has a very interesting understanding in the state of Andhra Pradesh. On one hand, he has an alliance with BJP and on the other hand, he has also announced an alliance with Chandrababu Naidus TDP. This, even as TDP and BJP are not in an alliance.

Last Friday, the saffron party, in its central election committee meeting, had discussed close to 55 of 119 assembly seats.

The BJP has already declared candidates on 52 seats, which includes three Lok Sabha MPs. Former BJP chief Bandi Sanjay will contest from Karimnagar, sitting Lok Sabha MP from Nizamabad Arvind Dharmapuri will contest from Koratla and Soyam Bapu Rao from Boath.

Given the revocation of suspension of controversial leader T Raja Singh ahead of the state polls, BJP has fielded him from Goshamahal. Campaign committee chief Etela Rajendran  who jumped ship to BJP last year from BRS  will contest from Huzurabad.

Top sources also told News18 that once the alliance is fine-tuned, the saffron party is likely to hold another CEC meeting to discuss and finalise its tickets for the remaining seats.

Five states go to polls next month, with the last election taking place in Telangana on November 30.
BRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao on Thursday accused the Congress of treating the Dalits and Muslims only as vote bank without making any sincere efforts for their upliftment.

Rao, who resumed his campaign today for the November 30 Assembly polls following a Dussehra break, cautioned people not to fall for glib talk and vote for the wrong people.

It is the public who will suffer if they dont choose a good party that works for the development of the state, he said speaking at Achampet. Personally we wont lose anything ( if not voted to power). If you defeat us, then we will take rest. We dont lose or gain anything. But you (people) will lose. It is my responsibility to tell you, as the fighters and achievers of Telangana and to guide Telangana in the right way, it is our duty to tell you, he said.

Rao, also known as KCR, said chief ministers of BJP-ruled states, where there are no drinking water, power facilities, will descend on Telangana for the poll campaign and preach to the voters. Lashing out at the Congress, he said all that the party wants is to boss over Telangana, instead of its wellbeing.

Rao alleged that the Congress promised to provide power 20 hours to farmers in Karnataka, but ended up supplying electricity only for five hours. He claimed that even Prime Minister Narendra Modis home state Gujarat also does not provide power for 24 hours to farmers.

Telangana is the only state in the country where power is available 247 (for farmers and others), he said. Alleging that though the Congress ruled for over 50 years after the independence, it never thought of implementing schemes such as Dalit Bandhu.

They treated Dalits as vote banks. They never worked for us, he charged, and said had there been such schemes, Dalits would be living like kings today. Listing the achievements of Telangana in the past 10 years, KCR said the southern state was developed in such a way that it became a role model in the country over the decade. It is the only state in the country which provides drinking water at the doorsteps.

Later, addressing a poll rally at Wanaparthy, Rao sought to know whether it was not Congress which used Muslims as vote bank and made them poor without taking measures for their welfare.

Noting that his government has transferred the administrative powers on ownership of lands to farmers themselves (with the introduction of Dharani integrated land records management system), Rao said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is now talking about abolishing Dharani portal.

He asked whether the farmers wanted a government that kept control of their lands in their hands or those who are talking about doing away with Dharani. Court cases and incidents like murder would have happened due to land disputes in view of the sharp rise in land prices in Telangana if Dharani is not in existence, he said.

Pointing to resolutions passed by the BRS government twice in the Assembly to include Valmiki community in ST category, he said the PM Narendra Modi government has not acted on it. Rao assured that the BRS would continue to fight for the rights of Valmiki community.

Speaking at Munugode, he said his government has fulfilled almost all the promises made during the bypoll to the constituency held last year. The BRS candidate had won the byelection.

The CM said people are aware of those who did not play a sincere role during the Telangana agitation and when people faced problems like shortage of water and power in undivided Andhra Pradesh.

Such people are throwing challenges at him now, he said. In an apparent reference to Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy, who is set to rejoin Congress after quitting BJP, Rao said people of Munugode, where Communists had strong presence earlier, should demonstrate their political awareness and teach a lesson to those who switch party loyalties and want to do politics on the basis of money power.

Raj Gopal Reddy had quit BJP on Wednesday and announced his decision to return to Congress. His resignation from Congress had necessitated the bypoll last year. He unsuccessfully contested in the Munugode byelection and lost to BRS candidate Prabhakar Reddy.

During his rallies, Rao also highlighted the achievements of his government and spoke about the promises of BRS in the assembly polls.
On October 23, in temporarily occupied Berdiansk, Zaporizhia region, a car in which there were four representatives of the enemy FSB, including a criminal who brutally tortured local citizens of Ukraine, was destroyed by explosion, the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine said.

"The action of revenge was carried out by representatives of the Ukrainian resistance movement on Michurina Street near the Jasmin Guest-House hotel, which the FSB turned into their hiding place," the agency said on the Telegram channel on Thursday.

It is noted that after the car bombing in the temporarily occupied territory of Zaporizhia region, the curfew was increased from 21:00 to 05:00, and representatives of the Russian special services immediately left the hotel and relocated to a new location.

"However, this place is also well known for the brave underground patriots of Ukraine," the agency said.
Amid the strain in the Congress-Samajwadi Party (SP) ties, a result of the Congresss unwillingness to share seats with the SP in the Madhya Pradesh assembly polls, the bigger question is  how will the two Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc partners share seats in Uttar Pradesh (UP) in the upcoming Lok Sabha (LS) polls?

ALSO READ | Mungeri Lal Ke Haseen Sapne Or Rift In INDIA Bloc? Row After Future PM Akhilesh Hoarding at SP Office

Political analysts have called the MP assembly elections a litmus test for the Congress-SP alliance ahead of the 2024 general elections.

THE CONGRESS-SP RIFT

It all began almost 50 days ago, when the foundation of the INDIA bloc was laid to fight against Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the 2024 LS polls. The INDIA bloc has 28 political parties from different parts of the country, including the Grand Old Party Congress and SP.

At the time of the formation of the alliance, the partners had passed a resolution stating seat-sharing would be based on the spirit of give and take. While the talks, resolutions and vows were meant for the 2024 LS polls, its effects are visible much in advance in the 2023 state assembly polls in five states  Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Mizoram.

Of the five, MP will be the first to go to polls on November 17.

THE CLASH ON 4 SEATS IN MP

In the first signs of rift, both the Congress and SP fought over four assembly seats in MP, as the seat-sharing talks between the two failed to reach a consensus. Both the parties have now released separate lists of their candidates for the assembly polls in MP.

The SP, which plans to contest from 18 seats, declared nine candidates in its first list. Among those on the list were MLA Meera Deepak Yadav from Nirwadi, Brajgopal Patel from Raj Nagar, DR Rahul from Bhander, Vishwanath Singh Markam from Dhauhani, Shravan Kumar Singh Gaur from Chitrangi, Lakshman Tiwari from Sirmaur, Manoj Yadav from Bijwar, Mahesh Sahare from Katangi, and Rampratap Singh Yadav from Sidhi. Four of the nine  Chitrangi, Medgaon, Bhander and Raj Nagar  seats will see a clash with the Congress, clear from the latters list of 144 candidates for the 230 assembly seats. In 2018, the Congress had won all these seats, barring Chitrangi.

ALSO READ | Chhodo Akhilesh Vakhilesh: Kamal Nath When Asked About SP-Cong Rift Ahead of Madhya Pradesh Polls

Interestingly, the Congress has also announced a candidate from the Bijawar assembly seat, which the SP had won in the 2018 assembly polls.

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said recently, The Congress should decide whether they want an alliance at the state level or at the national level. If they dont want an alliance at the state level, then in the future, there will be no state-level alliance."

The issue snowballed when senior Congress leaders blamed the SP for not supporting the Congress in the MP assembly elections.

Instead of taking advantage of the situation, the SP should have come forward and supported the Congress in the regions that are considered the partys strongholds. Instead, they indulged in denting the partys vote base by fielding their candidates from Congress seats. The SP should have suppressed their political aspirations and supported the Congress. Only then the bigger goal, which is to stop the BJP in 2024, can be achieved," said Ajay Rai, UP Congress chief.

THE LITMUS TEST

Although Yadav said he had received a message from senior Congress leaders, and hopefully the issue will be resolved soon, political analysts are not convinced.

There may not be much at stake for the SP in the MP assembly polls, but it is likely to set the tone for seat-sharing with the Congress for the upcoming 2024 LS polls. Along with other factors, the seat-sharing formula will also play a crucial role in UP. It will decide the fate of both the parties," said Shashikant Pandey, head of the political science department, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow.

Pandey said that, in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the Congress holds a prominent position. In Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, it is in power, whereas in MP, it is the main opposition party. The Congresss role and performance in the 2023 assembly elections will help the party position itself strongly in UP for the 2024 LS polls. The more the seats in MP and other state assemblies, the better its position and the result will be in UP in the 2024 LS polls," pointed out Pandey.

Statistics show that be it the UP assembly elections in 2017, when the SP and Congress joined hands, or even the 2019 LS polls, Yadav showed generosity in seat-sharing, said Pandey.

ALSO READ | Will SP Challenge Congress on Amethi & Rae Bareli Seats in 2024? Irate Over MP Fallout, Akhilesh Plans Revenge

Currently, the SP is targeting three states, including MP, Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh. In MP, the SP had bagged seven seats in the 2003 elections. It has, however, not been able to open its account in Chhattisgarh, whereas in Rajasthan, the party backed Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), which currently has one MLA in the state assembly.

Pandey said that the INDIA blocs agenda to stop the BJP in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls can only be achieved if both the Congress and SP come up with a seat-sharing formula at the earliest in order to focus on the bigger goal.
A BSF jawan and a civilian were injured in an unprovoked firing by Pakistan rangers along the International Border in the Arnia sector in Jammu on Thursday night.

The Border Security Force said Pakistan Rangers started firing on BSF posts in the Arnia area at about 8 pm. The force gave a befitting reply to Pakistan Rangers.

The jawan and civilian have been rushed to the hospital.

This comes a week after two BSF personnel were injured after the Rangers resorted to unprovoked firing in the Arnia sector around the same time on October 17.

There have been more than a dozen such ceasefire violations after India and Pakistan signed an agreement on February 25, 2021, to strictly observe all agreements on ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir and other sectors.
Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green OAM, in an interview with News18, said Australia wants India-Canada ties to become normal, and being the member of Five Eyes alliance, it is painful for them to see the current situation between both the countries.

Amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, Green said humanitarian access to the people in Gaza is being provided, stressing diplomacy has its place, which is why Australian foreign minister Penny Wong has spoken to the foreign ministers of Egypt, UAE, Jordan and all those involved in the regional conflict.

Green also elaborated on Australias focus on energy transition of critical minerals such as lithium and cobalt for

fuelling Indias massive electrical vehicles industry.

On reports that Australian PM Anthony Albanese may attend the next Quad summit in India during the Republic Day, Green said his country is looking forward to it, but did not divulge the details.

Q: How has your journey been in India so far?

A: The first thing is that it has been very pacy. I had three ministerial visits and a Prime Minister visit in my first four weeks here. In my first eight weeks, I travelled to eight Indian cities. I come here at a very special time in our bilateral relationship. I come here at a time of unique closeness. We have seen the genuine intimacy between our two Prime Ministers both on visits to Australia and our Prime Ministers visit here and Ive seen that up close with the two of them meeting at the G20. But its more than just a sentiment. There are three powerful drivers behind our bilateral relationship at the moment  an unprecedented level of strategic alignment, a very strong sense of complementarity between our two economies where our green energy transition, our critical minerals, our ability to fuel Indias need for training for its young people are at an all-time high. And the third driver is the human bridge. Around a million people of Indian origin now live in Australia, making an important contribution to our society. So, its a unique time to be here as an ambassador, and Im planning to make the most of it.

Q: The Delhi declaration was seen as an achievement for the G20 grouping. Perhaps, at the most difficult times, when the world is seemingly divided in two blocs, India did manage to pull off the declaration and delivered the action-oriented agenda. How do you look at this achievement of G20 nations coming together and the consensus which was seen in New Delhi?

A: It was a very good G20. It demonstrated Indias place now amongst the leading players of the world. The achievement from a consensus communique is something big, but also there were important low-level advances in the G20. For example, in the finance track, an agreement to regulate cyber currencies and cyber assets and a new ambition in relation to getting private capital into the multilateral development was established. You talked about India and the global south and that was very much on display. Indias bringing the African Union into the G20 is a powerful symbol. I saw genuine partnership between India and many countries of the developed West, with the United States, Japan, Australia, and many of the European countries. The ability of India to do so at the same time as a coalition and its credential for the global south is notable and impressive.

Q: I have had the opportunity to interview your predecessor about the legacy he is leaving behind during the visits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Australia and vice-versa. What more needs to be done when it comes to India-Australia ties?

A: High Commissioner Barry O Farrell did a great job here and at a time when there was perhaps the highest ever uptick in our bilateral relationship. His achievement of those headline visits that you noted as well as the first free trade agreement between our countries. The more I think about it is this in five years time where were going to be, obviously, well have a second phase free trade agreement. By 2035, there will be 1.2 million Indian visitors to Australia each year. We want Australian lithium and cobalt to be powering Indias EV and electric power industry. We want Australian technology to be embedded in the creation of millions of solar panels. We want Australian universities not just to be training Australian youth in Australia, but draw campuses in India. And we want a stronger strategic alignment, a closer engagement between our armed forces on maritime domain awareness. But the job is not done and my ambition is to take it a little way forward and to execute this.

Q: On the recent diplomatic standoff between India and Canada, the US ambassador to Canada David Coleman said they were shared intelligence among the Five Eyes partners that helped lead Canada in making statements that Justin Trudeau did. In fact, the Australian Security Intelligence chief said he has no reasons to dispute Canadas claim. How do you look at these two statements? Can you confirm that there is evidence between the Five Eyes alliance countries?

A: It is not my policy and practice to comment on intelligence matters. I wouldnt be going there. Let me say this. Ive had a lot of practical experience as a diplomat, this is my fifth timeas ambassador. And that tells me that there are some moments when its better that less is said about issues rather than more. I would like to draw you to the comments that our foreign minister has made that are available to you and your viewers on the internet. Let me put this in a different frame. Canada is an old friend of Australia and India is a dear friend of Australia. I think you and your viewers know what its like in a family situation, in a work situation or friendship, when two of your dearest friends are having difficulties, that is painful. Its difficult for us. We want India and Canada to find a new settling point for their bilateral relationship as soon as possible. We hope that that will be sooner rather than later. We hope that that will lead to the ties between the two countries resuming to normalcy.

Q: After the bombing at a hospital in Gaza, many political observers and geopolitical experts were expecting that to be a turning point in a war or that ceasefire would be announced. But what we are looking at right now is that Western countries such as the US, UK, India Australia and Canada are backing Israel. Perhaps, there are two demands  for immediate ceasefire and to secure the humanitarian corridor in Gaza. What is your countrys position given the crisis in Gaza and the civilians being held hostage by Hamas?

A: What we are looking for is humanitarian pauses. The situation in Gaza at the moment is dire. We have longed called for the protection of human life, and we have served civilian life and we have called for humanitarian access. Some of it has begun, but its not enough. Thats why, we are calling for humanitarian pauses to be able to get enough supplies into Gaza to meet the needs of the Gazan people.

Q: As a career diplomat, excessive diplomacy has been put in place by many countries in West Asia to build some sort of consensus as the stakes are high amid the developments including the Israel-Hamas war. Do you see that the world organisations have been losing diplomacy once again? We have a situation where other wars have not started, but there is a he risk of a regional conflict.

A: Diplomacy has its place. Not everything we want will be able to be achieved but its important that we all try hard. Thats why our Foreign Minister has been in touch in recent times with the foreign ministers of Israel, Palestinian Authority, UAE, Jordan, Egypt and other countries who are involved in this. We are active so are the Americans, the French and the British. Will we achieve all of the ambitions that we hope. Probably not. Are a range of players doing their utmost? I think its reasonable to say yes. But the situation is critical. The humanitarian situation is dire, and for Australia, getting humanitarian pauses in place to allow that is the immediate objective.

Q: There are reports that Indias planning QUAD meeting in January on the occasion of Republic Day. Perhaps, we can expect Australian Prime Minister to be in New Delhi again. If you can confirm and elaborate a little bit on this?

A: The responsibility for announcing the dates of next years QUAD summit lies with Prime Minister Modi. I am not in the business of taking that away from him. I did talk to our PM at the G20 about next years QUAD summit. He is very much looking forward to it; once dates are settled hell be very keen to come. Can I just say this too about substance? The last time I came to India before I was assigned here was in 2018. At that time, I was responsible for the QUAD in Canberra, and where we are now is so different to where we were. In those days, we were having occasional meetings at senior official level, with ministers not always issuing a communique. Now, annual meetings at the leaders level, clear work programmes, achievements on the ground in the areas of health security, infrastructure, other fields. So, we are in a totally different field. I cant identify myself a four-country grouping that has gone so far so fast as the QUAD has over the last five years.

Q: There are some subjects in which there is a lot of work being done. Energy transition of critical minerals  can elaborate a little bit on how both India and Australia are collaborating on this?

A: On critical minerals, we foresee a time where Australian lithium, Australian cobalt will be fuelling Indias massive industry in electric vehicles and batteries. How do we get from here to there? Well, there are two big activities going on. Bbetween the two governments. Weve identified five projects in Australia. This is a mining project in Australia for lithium and cobalt, which will be of interest to Indian firms. Thats going on. This goes to the level of demand in this country. Individual Indian companies are coming to me and saying they need access to Australian resources in the field of lithium and help promote trade. So, thats one aspect thats really powerful. The other aspect that is very important is that we in Australia plan to have green energy capability on a giga scale. For that, we will need inputs, particularly, of solar panels. We want to make sure that there is a diversified supply of solar panels from a range of countries and India is a key country that we see as a major manufacturer of solar. Thats why, we have a Solar Alliance and we are working together so that Australian technology can help build an Indian industry of creating millions of solar panels.

Q: With the World Cup going on, Team India is doing good, but looks like the Australian team is not at their best. Are you tracking the developments?

A: We have had a couple of early losses but the boys are in good spirit. I saw them on Sunday night. David Warner and Alex Carey and Cameron Green all in pretty good shape. I think they had a rocky start but things are now on the up. Ill be there in Dharamsala to support them against New Zealand. When we talk about the tournament, of course, India is doing very well and theyre clearly a team to beat. I think whats charming about this tournament is the success of some of the less qualified teams. The Netherlands winning matches, Afghanistan winning matches. Thats a great contest and a great spectacle. I am thoroughly enjoying it.
In a big boost to the intelligence wing of the worlds largest paramilitary force, the CRPF will soon have 659 officials and personnel who will be responsible for gathering information and inputs from areas like Jammu and Kashmir, Naxal-affected zones, and other sensitive regions. The proposal for the 659 posts for the intelligence grid has been cleared by the ministry of finance, a top official confirmed. Sources also said that the force will additionally get almost three dozen senior officers for the intelligence grid.

News18 was the first to report on the proposal to increase the strength of intelligence officials for various forces, including CRPF.

The proposal of MHA for creation of 659 posts with abolition of 09 posts (6 posts of 2-I/C, I- Inspector and 2-HC/Int) for maintaining uniformity in the intelligence Set up in 09 Sector HQrs, 17 Range HQrs and 43 Battalions of CRPF deployed in J&K North East and LWE affected areas has been examined in this Department and is agreed to all the posts, the ministry of finance said in a letter. Posts of nine commandants, 25 deputy commandants, 107 inspectors, 112 sub-inspectors, 189 head constables, and 182 constables, etc, have been cleared.

Senior officials aware of the development said the Central Reserve Police Force would be getting more than 659 personnel to bolster its intelligence wing and a proposal had been prepared while elite wings like CoBRA will also get a boost. These personnel will be dedicated to the intelligence wing alone as the CRPF is now growing and will be undertaking more key tasks in the Srinagar area, officials said.

Sources said the majority of the upcoming ground intelligence staff will be deployed in J&K to boost the intel system.

The Intelligence Directorate is functioning under the overall supervision of the inspector general (intelligence). He is assisted by DIG (media and communications), commandant (intelligence) and public relations officer.

The ITBP has also decided to increase the number of troops in Ladakh, especially in forward areas. The force is also planning to add various technology-based support, including artificial intelligence (AI). A senior ITBP official said different equipment will be purchased to get help in gathering intelligence in border areas.
Once again, it is that time of the year when Delhi-NCR breathes toxic air. The worsening air pollution in the region has intensified a range of symptoms, including cough attacks, breathlessness, congestion, persistent headaches, fatigue, and more.

People who are already suffering from lung-related illnesses, asthma, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are witnessing worsening symptoms followed by increased requirements of medicines and inhalation.

For the third consecutive day, Delhis air quality remained in the poor category on October 25, and monitoring agencies predict that a significant improvement is unlikely in the coming days.

With no relief in sight from the air pollution  as stubble burning continues in parts of Punjab and Haryana  people at risk have already begun lining up at hospital outpatient departments (OPDs) and emergency units.

Top pulmonologists and experts dealing with these patients told News18 that they are noticing a definite upswing in the number of people coming in emergency departments or OPDs with worsened symptoms or respiratory distress. They also said that people are taking much longer to respond to medications.

We are witnessing an alarming rise in patients battling asthma and COPD which is exacerbated by the lethal combination of increasing air pollution and incoming winter, Dr Navneet Sood, senior consultant of pulmonology at New Delhi-based Dharamshila Narayana Superspeciality Hospital, told News18.

Sood said that in the past 15 days, his department has recorded an around 15 per cent surge in such cases in his OPD. Some severe patients also got admitted, he said.

New Delhi-based Holy Family Hospital has also started seeing admissions in the institute and intensive care unit already. We have admitted patients related to exacerbation of respiratory illnesses like asthma, COPD, and also a few ILD (interstitial lung disease), said Dr Sumit Ray, medical director at Holy Family Hospital.

Patients not responding to drugs immediately

Similarly, Dr Arjun Khanna, head of the department of pulmonary medicine at NCR-based Amrita Hospital in Faridabad, told News18, People who were doing well on their ongoing medications are also coming back with complaints of worsening or increase of symptoms.

Khanna said that the requirement for inhaler doses or medications has gone up suddenly for those patients.

While this recurring event of deteriorating air quality starting from the month of October has almost become an annual norm, Dr Rajesh Chawla from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi expects this worrying trend to be more pronounced this year.

I have observed a greater presence of haze in the air quite early this year, indicating the potential for significantly higher pollution levels in the days ahead, said Chawla, who is a senior consultant of pulmonology and critical care. We have been seeing a cough that doesnt respond to medications easily and immediatelybronchodilators are being prescribed to manage the symptoms and still, patients are taking longer than usual to show relief.

Who should protect themselves and how

The insidious nature of air pollution infiltrates our lungs, causing inflammation and chronic damage, while the cold, dry winter air intensifies the suffering.

According to experts, both adults and children are vulnerable to these problems due to overexposure to pollution. However, the elderly and vulnerable people need extra precautions such as avoiding the outside when pollution levels are high, Sood said.

Doctors also suggested that as a precaution, the elderly should wear good-quality masks and avoid unnecessary movements when the air quality is terrible.

Additionally, its recommended to refrain from exercising in the early morning. Doctors emphasised the importance of asthma patients carrying a reliable inhaler with them at all times.

Patients with chronic conditions visit doctors for regular follow-ups, but the challenge lies with new cases, as experts believe that they tend to seek medical attention when their condition has already worsened. Therefore, in addition to treatment, they strongly underscore the importance of preventive measures.

Chawla of Indraprastha Apollo Hospital highlighted the need for a robust government policy to address this issue effectively. Air pollution will cause immediate symptoms only among those who have existing medical issues. Others will feel fatigue, headache, dizziness, burning sensation in eyes, and other symptoms, he said. However, in the long term, this could lead to grave conditions such as lung and breast cancer as proven by several studies in the past. Hence, we need to solve the issue instead of finding temporary solutions year on year.
India on Thursday vowed to explore all legal options after a Qatari court handed death sentences to eight Indian employees of a consulting company on charges of espionage. Expressing its deep shock, the external affairs ministry said in a statement that it is awaiting the detailed judgment in the case and is in touch with the family members of the victims.

We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options, the MEA said. We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, it added.

While the ministry statement did not provide further details, Qatars government declined to immediately comment on the matter. Qatari authorities provided New Delhi consular access to the eight Indian nationals during their trial.

Millions of Indians live and work in the Gulf, a large number of them as semi-skilled or unskilled workers. They form an important source of income for India and contribute to the success of Gulf economies.

Here is all you need to know about the eight Indian nationals sentenced to death on spying charges:

According to media reports, the eight men sentenced to death on spying charges are retired naval officers who worked for the consulting company Al Dahra. Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services is a private firm that provides training to the countrys armed forces. The Indians were involved with advising the Qatari government on the acquisition of submarines. They have been identified as Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh. Among them are decorated officers who have commanded major Indian warships. The eight men, who were detained in Doha, have been in the custody of Qatari authorities since August 2022. External affairs ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi had last said that they had been held on unspecified charges. On October 1, Indias ambassador to Qatar met these men. India was expecting a judgement this month. The seventh hearing in the case took place on October 3.

(With agency inputs)
Hijab-wearing women will be allowed to appear for examinations for recruitment to departments such as the labour department, Karnataka State Electronics Development Corporation Limited (KEONICS), Mysore Sales International Limited (MSIL) and Sainik Welfare Board, clarified Karnatakas Higher Education Minister Dr M C Sudhakar, however, adding that this is not to be confused with the Supreme Court (SC) order on hijab in schools".

ALSO READ | Supreme Courts Split Verdict in Hijab Row Puts Ball in Court of Larger Bench. News18 Traces the Controversy

Sudhakar stated a lot of misinformation is being circulated about wearing hijab and that his statement has been misconstrued as hijab will be allowed in schools and colleges. He said his statement has no relation to that decision, but only pertained to women writing exams for recruitment to the corporations/boards in the state.

NEET also allows students who are wearing hijab to answer examinations, and it is the same systems that are being implemented for these exams that are being conducted for recruitment to these boards through the state examination agency  Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA). The Supreme Court judgment is only with regard to the schools and it has nothing to do with this," Sudhakar said.

EXAMS ON OCT 28-29

Examinations for these departments are being held on October 28 and 29 to fill vacancies in five corporations in the state.

Explaining further, the minister also said that women who apply for jobs by answering these examinations are adults and have the right to wear what they feel is right according to their religion or choice".

We have to take certain precautions though. We have asked these candidates to come an hour earlier for a thorough frisking process. Today, many gadgets are available, which need thorough checking, so there is no chance of cheating by anybody appearing for these examinations," the minister added.

The minister also underlined that the decision would give everybody an opportunity, and open doors for more women to apply.

ALSO READ | Karnataka Hijab Ban: SC to Set Up Bench to Hear Plea of Muslim Girls for Nod to Take Exam in Headscarf

THE UDUPI CONTROVERSY

The hijab controversy erupted in January 2022 when a Government PU College in Udupi reportedly prevented six girls wearing the hijab from entering the premises.

In response to this incident, the girls staged a protest outside the college after being denied entry. Subsequently, pro-Hindu group students from various colleges in Udupi started attending classes donning saffron scarves as a form of protest. This demonstration soon spread to other regions within the state, sparking protests and demonstrations in multiple places across Karnataka.

They approached the SC where a two-judge bench of the Supreme Court gave a split verdict on the petitions challenging the Karnataka High Court verdict, which upheld Karnatakas hijab ban.

Karnatakas Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also made it clear that his government is committed to ensuring that the education sector would not be negatively affected and will ensure the harmony and secular heritage of Karnataka.
A Polish free-flying paraglider has been reported missing in Himachal Pradeshs Kangra Valley since October 23. He took off from Bir village along with three other friends, police said.

According to officials, police teams have been put together to look for the missing Polish paraglider. Kangra SP Shalini Agnihotri said the paraglider was last sighted near the Dharamshala Kareri area.

We have received a complaint about a Polish paraglider, who took off from Bir along with three friends towards Kareri Shahpur area and is missing since Monday. He was last sighted near the Dharamshala Kareri area. Three other people, who were gliding with him, are safe. Yesterday, a sortie and search operation was conducted but it did help us track down the missing paraglider. Two helipcopters will be deployed as the search operation resumes on Thursday. Ground teams are also looking for him, news agency ANI quoted Kangra SP Shalini Agnihotri as saying.

The SP urged locals to reach out to the police at emergency number 112 if they sight the missing Polish paraglider. She added that his glider has yellow, red and green coloured strips.

Due to the prevailing weather and clouds, there is possibility that his glider may have moved to an uninhabited area in the higher reaches of the Himalayas. We are hoping to gather more information soon, SP Agnihotri said.

Meanwhile, a case has been registered with the trainers school in Bir police station under IPC sections 336 and 304B, the SP informed.

The family members of the missing paraglider are in touch with us. The owners of the training school have been questioned in connection with the matter, SP Shalini Agnihotri added.
A film producer was cheated of Rs 10.35 lakh allegedly by his domestic help in Andheri in Mumbai, a police official said on Thursday.

Ramesh Jagdish Sharma (65), producer of films like Baaghi, Ek Tha Raja, Aakrosh, Pyaasa, Game, which were released in the 1990s, filed a complaint with DN Nagar police station on Tuesday, the official said.

As per Sharmas complaint, his domestic help Irfan Javed Sayyad, who has been working with him for five years, downloaded a UPI-based app and linked the formers bank account to it, he said.

Between June 29 and October 11, the 20-year-old accused transferred Rs 10.35 lakh from Sharmas account. Sharma realised it when his chequer got dishonoured for lack of balance.

Sayyad has been charged with cheating and other offences under IPC and Information Technology Act, the official said.
A marriage officer has been suspended after a disabled woman was forced to go up to the second-floor office of a marriage registrar at Khar in Mumbai on her wedding day to complete the formalities. The Maharashtra revenue department on Wednesday issued a government resolution (GR) suspending the officer, Arun Ghodekar.

Virali Modi, who uses a wheelchair and identifies herself as a disability rights activist, in a post on X last week claimed she had to be carried to the second-floor office of the marriage registrar in the city on her wedding day because the building had no lift and the officials refused to come down to complete the formalities.

How is this fair? What happened to the Accessible India campaign? Just because Im a wheelchair user, do I not have the right to get married to someone I love? What if someone had slipped and what if I had fallen on my wedding day? Who is responsible? she asked.

The post, which was shared many times, had also elicited a response from Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis who said he was sorry for what she had to face and assured to take corrective and appropriate action.

The state revenue department in the GR said Ghodekar, as a government officer, insisted that the disabled person come to the second floor on the ground of collecting her and the grooms fingerprints and photos on the computer. People close to Virali Modi and her fiance, Kshitij Nayak, telephoned Ghodekar, requesting him to come downstairs to complete the marriage registration procedure. But Ghodekar insisted that they come to the second floor of the building, which had no lift. For violating the service rules and indecent behaviour, Arun Ghodekar will remain suspended till further order, the GR added.

Modi in her post last week said, I am disabled and I got married at the Registrars Office at Khar Mumbai on 16/10/23. The office was on the 2nd floor WITHOUT a lift. They wouldnt come downstairs for the signatures and I had to be carried up two flights of stairs to get married.

I am disheartened that my countrys government and citizens cannot accommodate to my disability. My faith in humanity has been destroyed by this ordeal. I am not a piece of luggage that needs to be carried up two floors. I am a human being and my rights matter! she added.
Some 77% of respondents believe that it is important for them that Ukraine becomes a member of the European Union, of which 51% claim that it is essential for them, Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) said based on the results of a survey conducted on September 4 to 20.

"However, from West to East, the share of those for whom it is important that Ukraine becomes a member of the EU decreases  from 86% to 62% (in particular, from 61% to 24% there are fewer of those for whom this is crucial). Although in general, in all regions, the majority consider this important," KIIS said in the press release.

In addition, according to the survey results, some 65% of respondents trust the EU, while 25% do not trust, and 59% trust NATO, some 28% do not trust. Sociologists note that a significant share of distrust may be associated with a feeling of insufficient support for Ukraine during a full-scale Russian invasion.

The majority of respondents (60%) expressed their readiness for Ukraine's accession to the EU to be delayed for some time in order for Ukraine to defend its interests. At the same time, some 27% believe that it is necessary to fulfil all EU requirements in order to join the EU as soon as possible.

These studies also recorded that Ukrainians assess Ukraine's readiness to join the EU rather moderately. Only 22% of respondents consider Ukraine to be completely ready, while 43% believe that reforms are necessary, some 25% believe Ukraine is not ready at all.

Meanwhile, only 19% of respondents consider the government's efforts to carry out reforms to be sufficient, and 71% consider the efforts to be insufficient.

As noted in the press release, the greatest request among respondents among reforms was to combat corruption. Some 90% of respondents ranked anti-corruption activities among the top three reforms and tasks, of which 58% consider this task No. 1 for Ukraine. The top reforms also include tasks related to war (77% rank them in the top three) and reform of the judicial system (43%). Some 26% talk about ensuring human rights, and 21% talk about reforming law enforcement agencies.

KIIS conducted an all-Ukrainian survey commissioned by the European Union Advisory Mission to Ukraine. The survey was conducted using the method of personal (face-to-face) interviews using a tablet; some 2,005 respondents living in all regions of Ukraine that are controlled by the government of Ukraine (except for Kherson and Donetsk regions) were interviewed. The survey was conducted with adult (aged 18 years and older) citizens of Ukraine.

Formally, under normal circumstances, the statistical error of such a sample (with a probability of 0.95 and taking into account the design effect of 1.5) did not exceed 3.3%.
Eight former Indian Navy personnel have been given the death penalty by a Qatar court on Thursday.

The Ministry of External Affairs said it is deeply shocked and is awaiting the detailed judgement in the case.

The Indian nationals, all employees of Al Dahra company, were taken into custody in August last year in an alleged case of espionage. However, the charges against them were not made public by Qatari authorities.

Ex-Navy Officers Linked to Acquisition of Submarines: Who Are the 8 Indians Sentenced to Death in Qatar?

We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options, the MEA said.

The foreign ministry said it has been closely following the case and will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.

We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities. Due to the confidential nature of the proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, the MEA said.

Meanwhile, Congress has noted the Qatar courts verdict and expects that the Government of India will use its diplomatic and political leverage with the Qatar government to the maximum to ensure that the officers have full recourse to appeals and also do the utmost to get them released at the earliest.

The Indian National Congress has noted with the greatest anguish, distress and shock the most disturbing developments in Qatar regarding 8 former officers of the Indian Navy. It hopes and expects that the Govt of India will use its diplomatic and political leverage with the Qatar Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) October 26, 2023

Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal said that the Government of India must intervene in the matter.

Our Vishwa Guru must intervene8 Indian ex-Navy officers given the death penalty by a Qatar court Held accountable on charges which have not been even made public by Qatari authorities Our government must explore all options for their release  Kapil Sibal (@KapilSibal) October 26, 2023

Indias ambassador to Qatar had met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access.
The Bombay High Court recently denied interim relief to a man convicted by the trial court for outraging the modesty of a woman at Dadar railway station in 2017.

A single judge bench of the high court, presided over by Justice Bharathi Dangre, was hearing a plea for the interim release of a man who had filed a revision application against the sessions courts order.

The magistrate court had sentenced the man to six months of imprisonment after he was booked under 354D of the IPC.

The man filed an appeal before the sessions court against the order of the magistrate court. The sessions court upheld the order of the magistrate court against which the man approached the high court.

The woman stated that in 2017, at around 9.30pm, while she was on a train, the man inappropriately pinched her and touched her bottom. When she raised an alarm, a crowd gathered and the man was handed over to the Mumbai Central Railway Police.

The high court in its order recorded that as there are several women who usually travel in local trains during night hours and particularly when the city of Mumbai is considered safe for women, where large woman population travel in the local trains fearlessly, even up to midnight, this act must be viewed with all seriousness.

The bench noted that the Magistrate and the Additional Sessions Judge correctly considered the evidence presented before them and convicted the accused.

Advocate Subodh Desai, representing the man, argued that CCTV footage was not collected to corroborate the evidence.

However, the high court found this insufficient to disbelieve the victims testimony, which was supported by the police. As a result, the high court dismissed the application.
Ruling BRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao will address rallies in Achampet, Wanaparthy and Munugode segments on Thursday for the November 30 assembly polls.

Rao, also known as KCR, is addressing the rallies after a break due to the Dussehra festival.

On October 27, he will speak at public meetings in Palair, Mahabubabad and Wardhannapet.

Raos campaign will be on till November 9 when he will submit his nomination from Gajwel and Kamareddy constituencies.

He is representing Gajwel in Siddipet district in the outgoing legislative assembly.

Rao had kicked off his campaign on October 15 at Husnabad in Siddipet district after releasing the BRS manifesto in Hyderabad.

Polling will be held in Telangana on November 30 and votes will be counted on December 3.
Entrepreneurship in India is experiencing remarkable growth, with various states organizing events and campaigns to promote new startups and technologies. Tamil Nadu has also joined this trend by initiating the Tamil Nadu Startup and Innovation Mission (TANISM), aiming to foster an ecosystem that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship. In line with this spirit of promoting youth and innovation, a Kerala-based startup is making strides in assisting coconut farmers in Karnatakas Dakshin Kannada district through the application of technology.

One of the significant challenges faced by farmers in the Dakshin Kannada district, apart from water scarcity, is the shortage of agricultural labour. Often, they must rely on skilled labourers to harvest coconuts and other crops. To address this labour shortage, a startup named Hello Nariyal is providing workers equipped with tree-climbing machines to assist farmers in coconut harvesting. The startup has recently extended its services to Karnataka.

The Dharitri Seva Cooperative Society, which operates in Kabaka, Puttur, has introduced this innovative solution to the Dakshin Kannada district. Hello, Nariyal has trained over 100 workers from Chhattisgarh, who are now deployed to assist local farmers with coconut plucking. Previously, local labourers would charge farmers approximately Rs 70 to Rs 80 per coconut tree, creating unpredictability and problems for the farmers. Now, farmers can contact the Hello Nariyal team to schedule a date for the workers to come to their plantations and harvest coconuts. On the agreed-upon day, the workers arrive at the farm and charge Rs 50 per coconut tree.

Farmers can easily contact the Hello Nariyal office via their mobile phones. The sub-office of Hello Nariyal functions in Neerchal village, Kasaragod district, Kerala. To make an appointment, farmers contact startup officials, providing their fields location via their mobile phones. The office staff at Neerchal in Kerala then forwarded this information to the Puttur office in Karnataka. This innovative startup is making a significant difference for numerous farmers in the Dakshin Kannada district, offering them a cost-effective and efficient solution to their labour challenges.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday participated in a road show in Chennai regarding the hill states Global Investor Summit in December.

The Chief Minister held a meeting with investors from various sectors and investment MoUs worth Rs 10,150 crore were signed by the state government in the Chennai Road Show which also saw the participation of Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj and Cabinet Minister Saurabh Bahuguna.

Dhami invited investors from various groups, who had come to the road show, to the Global Investor Summit which will be held in Dehradun on December 8-9.

The Chief Minister said that apart from being a world-class tourist destination, there is immense potential for investment in many sectors like food processing, auto component manufacturing, education and health in Uttarakhand.

He said that the state government has included the traditional sectors of the state like tourism, AYUSH, wellness, food processing, automobiles, pharma as well as alternative energy and information and science technology as focus sectors.

The Chief Minister said that the road shows organized so far have been receiving very positive responses from investors from within the country and abroad. He said that more than 30 policies have been amended in the last few months to make Uttarakhand an investor-friendly state.

The Chief Minister said that the theme of the Global Investor Summit is Peace to Prosperity.

The MoUs signed in the first session today in Chennai include Rs 1,000 crore with July Ventures for startup, Rs 1000 crore with Kshana Group for investment in healthcare sector, Rs 600 crore with SRM University for investment in higher education, Heliport, Rs 500 crore with Refex Group in the energy sector, Rs 250 crore with Enfla Movi Group for Aroma Park and Rs 100 crore with Miltex Group for investment in the tourism sector.

In the second session, MoUs with Apollo Hospital, Craft Smith India, Infinity Global and TPCI were signed.
John Stamos is opening up about the sweet moment he shared with twins Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen when they reunited at their Full House co-star Bob Sagets funeral. It was in May when John publicly revealed being angry at the twins for not returning to Fuller House, the Netflix reboot of the hit 90s show. Stamos said Bob Saget played an instrumental role in keeping the cast together and his death brought a moment for him and the twins to frankly discuss the show and their dispute. Now, during his recent appearance on SiriusXMs The Howard Stern Show, the actor recalled meeting Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen at the funeral.

According to the accounts shared by John, the Olsen twins assembled the cast of Full House and expressed gratitude for the eight years they spent on the show together. We love you. We loved our childhood. Were grateful for you guys, we thank you for making those eight years so beautiful for us. We have such fond memories. And everyone just needed to hear that, said John Stamos.

The Olsen twins shared the role of Michelle Tanner in the hit 90s TV series, while John was the lead protagonist Jesse Katsopolis and Bob Saget essayed Danny Tanner.

Bob Saget passed away unexpectedly in January 2022 owing to a brain bleed after accidentally hitting his head in an Orlando hotel room. He was 65 at the time. Earlier today, deputies were called to the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes for a call about an unresponsive man in a hotel room. The man was identified as Robert Saget & pronounced deceased on the scene. Detectives found no signs of foul play or drug use in this case, stated Orange County Sheriff authorities while confirming Bob Sagets death.

Earlier today, deputies were called to the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes for a call about an unresponsive man in a hotel room. The man was identified as Robert Saget & pronounced deceased on scene. Detectives found no signs of foul play or drug use in this case. #BobSaget pic.twitter.com/aB1UKiOlmi Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) January 10, 2022

The Philadelphia-born actor was notably credited for his stunts in hit sitcoms including Fuller House, How I Met Your Mother, and Americas Funniest Home Videos. The late actor, who also rose to prominence for doing stand-ups, is survived by his wife Kelly Rizzo, and three daughters that he shared with his first wife Sherri Kramer.

Meanwhile, John Stamos was on the show to promote his new book titled If You Would Have Told Me: A Memoir.
Power couple Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone were the first guests on this years season of Koffee With Karan. On Koffee With Karan 8, Bollywoods royalty Ranveer and Deepika not only shared inside details about their courtship period but also spoke about how to navigate a marriage when one partner is facing mental health issues. They also finally unveiled their wedding video, five years after their wedding in Italy, leaving everyone in tears.

Netizens have now taken to social media to express their hot takes on the much-awaited episode. On X (formerly Twitter), one person said, Tears and love  after watching this beautiful video its 6 in the morning and I just finished seeing the episode I know the next video I am gonna cry like this is definitely a #TejRan wedding.

Tears and love  after watching this Beautiful Video.. its 6 in the morning and I just finished seeing the episodeI know the next video I am gonna cry like this is definitely a #TejRan wedding #KoffeeWithKaran #KoffeeWithKaran8 #RanveerSingh #DeepikaPadukone #DeepVeer pic.twitter.com/k7AdPNXhBB Raksha SriramHugivsashit (@raksha_sriram) October 26, 2023

Another person wrote, Ranveer Singh adores her, loves her, celebrates her- he is proud to have her in his life & its apparent. She sees him differently than how the world perceives him. This time #KoffeeWithKaran8 is quite amazing. One X user posted, 8 seasons and this show FINALLY dropped its best episode ever! #KoffeeWithKaran8 This drives us back to remembering how indebted we are to @deepikapadukone for bringing conversations around mental health to drawing rooms of urban India.

8 seasons and this show FINALLY dropped its best episode ever! #KoffeeWithKaran8This drives us back to remembering how indebted we are to @deepikapadukone for bringing conversations around mental health to drawing rooms of urban India. pic.twitter.com/VecKsLW21C  Lasya Nadimpally (@nlasya) October 26, 2023

One user wrote, I am loving this episode. Usually, Karan keeps asking questions that imply or instigate personal questions. But here its a genuine couple sharing about how they proposed, and met families. I love the way Ranveer is telling the stories. Nail biting #KoffeeWithKaran8.

Karan Johars confession of wanting a love story as beautiful as Ranveer and Deepikas story also went viral on social media. One person wrote on Reddit, Karan getting emotional and talking about his loneliness. I was in tears watching this, just shows that no amount of power money or fame can heal this.

#DeepikaPadukone in #KoffeeWithKaran8 said she is the best actress in Bollywood today.She shuts out all the noise regarding the best actress in bollywood right now. She is unapologetic and confident #KoffeeWithKaran pic.twitter.com/afqTtXhU1x  George (@georgeviews) October 26, 2023

In another moment on the show, Deepika said that believed that she is the best actress in Bollywood currently. Reacting to that, one person posted, #DeepikaPadukone in #KoffeeWithKaran8 said she is the best actress in Bollywood today. She shuts out all the noise regarding the best actress in Bollywood right now. She is unapologetic and confident .

New episodes of Koffee With Karan 8 will drop every Thursday.
Ranveer Singh has revealed that he proposed marriage to Deepika Padukone right after the release of Ram-Leela, which became a huge success. The actor said that within six months of dating, he knew Deepika was the one for him.

So Ram-Leela happened and we were in this (dating period). At one point, when I felt right I decided she was the one, Ranveer told Karan Johar on the first episode of Koffee With Karan Season 8. So I thought before anything can happen just put a ring on it. I was in cahoots with my sister and mom, acquiring the ring. We (he and Deepika) were going on a holiday and I decided that Id propose to her on the holiday. I got the ring. And, my folks were like, Are you going to propose? You dont want to consult her parents? I didnt have that degree or maturity back then. I was like, No, Im marrying her so Ill ask her. So we go to the Maldives and I secretly carry the ring with me and we do the sandbank adventure.

Ranveer then explained how a boat took them to the middle of the sea and there was just one tiny sliver of sand in the midst of the sea. It was just her and me in the middle of the sea. I was like, This is the perfect scenario, he shared.

He continued, They dropped us off and let and now its just her and me on the island and I popped the question, gave her the ring, she did not expect it, and she got emotional. And that was it, she said yes and I felt like the king of the world and then we were engaged.

After coming back from the holiday, Ranveer and Deepika went straight to Bengaluru to break the news to Deepikas family. But unfortunately, Deepikas mother, Ujjala Padukone, didnt approve of their relationship.

Recalling the moment, Ranveer said, I was sitting at the head of the table with my hands and mouth engrossed and suddenly absolutely out of nowhere, she was like, He proposed marriage to me and I said yes. And, there was just pin-drop silence. And Ujjalas face has just gone cold. Everybody wanted it to be a happy, memorable moment but I could sense the undercurrents. Everything has happened- hugs and celebrations. We went back home. I went into a room in their Bengaluru home. And I put my ear to the door and outside Amma and Deepika were having it out. She was saying, Who is this guy? He has proposed marriage and you said yes also? This whole drama was going on outside. And I was like, God save us! Then it took obviously years and a lot of work on my part to kind of make a place in Ammas heart but now I think it has happened and Im one of her favourite people in the world.

Deepika and Ranveer then got married in an intimate ceremony in Italy in 2018. They have worked together in several films together including Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat and 83.
Actress Richa Chadha will be awarded the title of Chevalier dans lordre des Arts et des Lettres from the French government for her significant contributions in the field of arts. Jean-Marc Sere-Charlet, the Consul General of France in Mumbai, will present the award to Chadha on October 28 on the sidelines of the Jio MAMI Mumbai International Film Festival, which begins on Friday.

The actors 2015 critically-acclaimed film, Masaan was an Indo-French co-production that was screened in the UN Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival the same year and had won two awards. For her maiden home production film, Girls Will Be Girls she has received both, the French grant Aide aux Cinemas du Monde (ACM) as well as the new incentives introduced by the Indian authorities. Sere-Charlet said he is pleased to honour the actor-producer and added that it is symbolic of the Indo-French collaboration.

It is an opportune moment, especially during the MAMI film festival which will also showcase Rendez-vous with French Cinema with a line-up of 12 French films as well as the presence of ten film professionals from France, Sr-Charlet said in a statement.

Chadha said she is overwhelmed to have been recognized by the French government and the Consul General of France in Mumbai with the Chevalier dans lOrdre Des Arts et Des Lettres award. She added that it motivates her to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on the world through her work. To stand in the esteemed company of legends such as Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact cinema can have on bridging cultures and societies. My journey in the film industry has been nothing short of a roller-coaster ride, filled with challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons, she shared.

Receiving this honour is not just a personal achievement; it is a recognition of the collective efforts of everyone who believed in my vision, from my family and friends to my mentors and collaborators. This accolade reaffirms my belief that storytelling knows no boundaries, and it is my responsibility as an artist to contribute meaningfully to the global dialogue, the actress added.

Altogether 12 French films are programmed to be screened throughout the Jio MAMI Mumbai International Film Festival and for the first time, ten film professionals from France are invited to participate in the festival and have interactive sessions.
Peter Morgan, the creator of the well-known television series, The Crown, has expressed his response to criticisms directed at his historical fiction show in a recent interview. The criticisms, which have come in advance of the release of Season 6, include comments from prominent figures such as legendary actor Judi Dench and former UK Prime Minister John Major. The criticism reportedly surrounds a leaked scene in which Prince Charles (played by Dominic West) has a conversation with an imaginary Diana (Elizabeth Debicki) in the cabin of the royal plane as he accompanies her dead body from Paris to London.

Even before this reportedly leaked scene from the final season of the show, Judi Dench had previously voiced her concerns about the Netflix series, describing it as crude sensationalism in a published letter, reports Variety. She reportedly expressed the view that while many viewers may recognise The Crown as a brilliantly crafted but fictionalised account of historical events, there is a risk that a significant portion of the audience, especially those outside the UK, might consider its version of history to be entirely accurate. Her article, titled The Crown is crude and cruel, says Dame Judi Dench, was reportedly published before Season 5 was released.

In response to these remarks, in an interview with Variety, director Peter Morgan stated, All the criticism about The Crowns attitude to the royals comes in anticipation of the show coming out. The minute its out and people look at it  whether its Judi Dench or John Major, they instantly fall silent. And I think they probably feel rather stupid.

In the same interview, Peter Morgan, 60, also expressed that it is challenging to discuss his show within the United Kingdom. Its just that I dont like talking about it. I dont think its possible to have a sensible conversation about The Crown in the United Kingdom, he told Variety.

As for The Crown itself, the series focuses on the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The final instalment, Season 6, is scheduled to be released in two parts, with the first part premiering on November 16 and the second part on December 14. Notably, all three actresses who have portrayed Queen Elizabeth II across the five seasons, including Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton, are expected to make appearances in Season 6.
Kyiv Metropoliten has received the last batch of cars donated by the Warsaw Metro, Kyiv City State Administration reports.

In total, the capitals subway received 60 decommissioned cars of series No. 81 free of charge as technical assistance from Polish colleagues. The phased transportation of all cars lasted seven months, the report states.

Now, metro specialists continue to process each received train to determine its technical condition.

We note that 80% of the rolling stock running on the lines of the Kyiv metro was manufactured in Soviet times - it is similar to the cars that are used in the Warsaw metro. The design of these cars has the necessary equipment for timely and proper maintenance of the rolling stock of the capitals metro, the report says.

As Kyiv Metro notes, for safe train movement, fast and high-quality travel, rolling stock requires timely, high-quality and thorough repairs.
Following the conclusion of the fifth season of The Crown, dedicated fans of the Netflix series are on the edge of their seats, awaiting the release of the sixth and final season, promising a deep dive into the Royal Familys highs and lows. As anticipation builds for the grand finale, the British tabloid The Daily Mail has sparked conversations by sharing details about a scene from the upcoming season. This particular scene involves the ghost of Princess Diana, portrayed by Elizabeth Debicki, interacting with Prince Charles, played by Dominic West and ageing Imelda Stauntons Queen Elizabeth. After weeks of speculation and rumours, the shows creator, Peter Morgan, has officially confirmed the inclusion of imaginary Diana.

Explaining how shell appear in the sixth season, Peter told Variety, I never imagined it as Dianas ghost in the traditional sense. It was her continuing to live vividly in the minds of those she has left behind. Diana was unique, and I suppose thats what inspired me to find a unique way of representing her. She deserved special treatment narratively.

While details of The Crown Season 6 remain a secret, fortunate few got a chance to have a glimpse of the final episodes. As per Daily Mail, the scene involves Charles grieving over Dianas body in a Paris hospital morgue. Elizabeth Debickis character even expresses her gratitude, saying, Thank you for how you were in the hospital. So raw, broken and handsome. Ill take that with me. A Netflix source later clarified that Debickis appearance will be like the visualizations of innermost thoughts, rather than a supernatural occurrence.

While Buckingham Palace has chosen to maintain silence, few close with the members of the Royal Family indicate that the upcoming season will be considered in poor taste, especially since it delves into what they consider deeply painful memories of the family and transforming them into sensation.

The Crown Season 6 is set to be released in two parts. The first part, streaming from November 16, will cover events up to Princess Dianas funeral. The second instalment, streaming from December 14, will bring the story to an end with Charles wedding with Camilla Parker Bowles. This final season will explore the life of the Royal Family following the tragic death of the princess, who lost her life in a car accident in Paris on August 31, 1997.
Varun Tej and Lavanya Tripathi got engaged in June earlier in an intimate ceremony in Hyderabad. While Varun and Lavanyas fans have been eager in anticipation for their nuptials which will reportedly be held on November 1, the to-be-wedded couple recently celebrated their union with several pre-wedding bashes. Reports now claim that the festivities are about to begin in Tuscany, Italy with another gala night.

Pinkvilla quoted a source as saying, The couple will be hosting a cocktail party in the picturesque region of Tuscany, Italy on October 30th, marking the first event of their wedding Cocktail night will be a visual feast for fashion enthusiasts amidst the soiree that will be a perfect blend of elegance, romance, and fine Italian charm followed by mehendi and haldi night on October 31.

The report mentioned that both the to-be bride and to-be groom have opted for minimalism in their aesthetics and hence the decor and their outfits will be chic yet low-key. While Ram Charan, Upasana Konidela and their daughter Klin Kaara are already in Tuscany, enjoying their Italian getaway, more cousins like Allu Arjun, Sai Dharam Tej and the rest of the family are expected to land in Italy soon.

According to the report, Lavanya Tripathi and Varun Tej will be departing for Tuscany on Friday, October 27, along with their families. Manish Malhotra was recently in Hyderabad to reportedly finish the final fittings of Varun and Lavanyas outfits.

Earlier, the couple had enjoyed two lavish pre-wedding parties. The first one was hosted by Chiranjeevi at his residence. Ram Charan was present there to take part in the festivities. However, Allu Arjun was busy with work and could not make it. Hence, the Pushpa actor later threw a second pre-wedding party attended by several actors from the industry. However, this time Ram Charan had to give it a miss due to work commitments.
Renowned filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra, celebrated for his critically acclaimed works like Parinda, 1942: A Love Story, and Mission Kashmir, is making a highly anticipated return to the directors chair after a three-year hiatus. His previous directorial venture, Shikara, delved into the lives of dislocated Kashmiri Pandits affected by the insurgency.

Now, he is set to bring another compelling story to the big screen by adapting Anurag Pathaks book, 12th Fail. The film features Vikrant Massey and Palak Lalwani in prominent roles and is scheduled to hit theatres on October 27.

The creators of 12th Fail recently organized the films inaugural screening in three different cities: Bhopal, Mumbai, and Delhi. The Bhopal screening witnessed the presence of over 200 students and their parents, while the screenings in the other cities were attended by film enthusiasts and the media. Early reactions to the film have been overwhelmingly positive, with some dubbing it The Best Film of the Year 2023. Reports also suggest that the film received a standing ovation during these initial screenings.

Bolstered by the positive response, the 12th Fail team has made the bold decision to independently submit the film for consideration at the Academy Awards in 2024. An independent source revealed that the enthusiastic reception at the early screenings in Bhopal, Delhi, and Mumbai has solidified their intent to submit the film for the Oscars.

12th Fail is based on Anurag Pathaks best-selling novel, chronicling the incredible journeys of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and IRS officer Shraddha Joshi. The film offers a glimpse into the lives of aspirants preparing for the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams. It goes beyond the confines of a single exam and encourages aspirants not to lose hope in the face of failure but to regroup and forge ahead.

Vidhu Vinod Chopra serves as the films producer, with distribution handled by Zee Studios. The film also features Vikas Divyakirti, who successfully cleared the UPSC Civil Services Examination on his first attempt in 1996, playing himself in a significant role.
Indo-Canadian ties have reached a new low. This unfortunate downturn, however, was entirely avoidable. If Canada had respected Indias concerns, voiced for decades, and disallowed Khalistani radicals from using Canadian soil to mount anti-Indian activities, matters would not have deteriorated so much. But, on account of domestic political compulsions, Justin Trudeau has allowed Khalistanis a free rein.

All the worse that he has forgotten the victims of the terrorist bombing of AI 182 in 1985, which claimed 329 mostly Canadian lives. Instead, Trudeau keeps harping on the alleged killing of one individual, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a wanted criminal and Khalistani, whose Canadian citizenship itself was obtained on the basis of false statements.

To deescalate the tension, it may be necessary, first of all, to backtrack a bit. Let us acknowledge that the relationship between India and Canada has long been one characterised by diplomatic cordiality, shared values, and a significant Indian diaspora in Canada. Also that in recent years, this once robust friendship has faced a series of challenges and strains. At the heart of these challenges is the fact that Canada has not done enough to address Indias concerns regarding the activities of Khalistani radicals on its soil.

The Indo-Canadian relationship has deep historical roots, dating back to the arrival of Punjabi immigrants in Canada in the early 20th century. Over time, this community has grown and thrived, contributing to Canadas cultural and economic fabric. Both nations have benefited from this close connection, fostering economic, political, and cultural ties that seemed unbreakable.

But instead of cracking down on a small number of Khalistani radicals who bully their own community, indulge in criminal activities, are members of gangs, and control many Gurdwaras, Canadian authorities, in the name of freedom of speech, have preferred to look the other way. What is galling to India is that many of these radicals have well-established links with Pakistans Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), as well as the backing of other professedly anti-India groups and lobbies.

India has been conveying its concerns to Canada for decades through diplomatic channels. However, the Canadian government, especially the present regime led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has chosen to disregard Indias concerns. Why? Because Trudeaus minority coalition is supported by parties which have Khalistani inclinations.

The Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish an independent Sikh state only within India, without claiming any territory in neighbouring Pakistan, is so obviously an anti-India plot. That it was comprehensively defeated in India nearly thirty years back has not deterred its finding support in the Sikh diaspora, especially in Canada.

While the vast majority of the Sikh community in Canada is peace-loving and law-abiding, there have been instances of radical elements promoting separatism and indulging in anti-Indian activities. India has consistently voiced its apprehensions over these activities, which have the potential to undermine not only its sovereignty but also the harmony within the Sikh community in Canada. Worse, the criminal elements within the radicals can harm Canadians themselves, as was the case with the bombing of AI 182.

The tragic terrorist bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985, which claimed 329 lives, mostly Canadian citizens, remains a painful memory for both nations. This event, perpetrated by Sikh extremists seeking an independent Khalistan, was a stark reminder of the potential consequences of harbouring and allowing such radical elements to operate without restraint. While these concerns have persisted, some argue that the Canadian government has, in recent years, focused more on domestic political interests than on addressing Indias worries.

The recent strain in Indo-Canadian relations is closely linked to the perceived inaction by the Canadian government regarding these concerns. Critics argue that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, for political reasons, has been less proactive in addressing the Khalistani issue, thus allowing radical elements to operate with relative impunity on Canadian soil.

This perceived neglect has resulted in a significant downturn in diplomatic relations. The latest fallout of which is the halving of the strength of Canadian diplomats in India. This has the Canadians calling foul, weeping, so the speak, on the shoulders of their Anglo-allies, while India claims that diplomatic reciprocity, under the Vienna Convention, also implies parity in the number of diplomats posted in each country. It is rumoured that several extra numerary Canadian diplomats are sent off to India. The Canadian government, on the other hand, claims that the large number of Canadians of Indian origin require a much larger diplomatic presence on Indian soil.

Given this background, what is the way forward? First and foremost, Canada needs to stop playing the victim and spoilsport. Trudeau needs to acknowledge Indias legitimate interests and concerns over his governments laxity on the Khalistani issue. Once this is done, Canada must do its part to curb anti-India activities taking place on its soil, especially those that are blatantly illegal or criminal. This includes cracking down on groups that espouse a violent overthrow of a democratically elected Indian government and also offering asylum to those who make dubious claims of religious persecution in India.

When Canadian intentions are evident in actions on the ground, there is little doubt that relations are bound to improve. There is also every likelihood that the diplomats shown the door will be welcomed back. While Trudeaus concerns over his own constituents and supporters are well understood, he also needs to reflect not just on how heavy a diplomatic price he is willing to pay in terms of his countrys deteriorating relations with India, but also his growing unpopularity in domestic politics. The opposition has already called him incompetent and childish for the manner in which he has handled this issue.

To navigate the current strains in Indo-Canadian relations, both nations must find the right balance. The ball is quite clearly in Canadas court. It must address Indias legitimate concerns about Khalistani extremism. When it comes to respecting the rights and interests of the Sikh community in Canada, India is sure to support Canada. This balance can be achieved through open dialogue, collaboration, and a clear understanding of the need to separate individual cases, such as Nijjars alleged killing, from broader policy issues.

While respecting the principles of free speech and political expression, the Canadian government can certainly be proactive in curbing anti-India criminals and law-breakers in its backyard. At the same time, both countries can work together to monitor and investigate activities that cross the line into advocating violence or separatism. Collaboration and information sharing between the two nations can help counteract the activities of extremist elements. The future of Indo-Canadian relations depends on such steps to restore cordial relations.

The writer is an author, columnist, and professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
The war between Israel and Hamas may appear as though it is far removed from our reality. After all, the bloody settling of scores is taking place virtually on another continent. That too, on a sliver of Europe and Africa facing barely arable land on the edge of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea.

We might have perhaps continued to live under this delusion, had the Americans not drawn our collective attention to the link between India and the Israel-Hamas war hiding in plain sight.

Indeed, Antony Blinken, Americas Secretary of State (US equivalent of our Minister of External Affairs) has given a lot to think about by drawing a palpable parallel between Hamas and Lashkar-e-Taiba that carried out the 26/11 attacks on Mumbai in 2008.

Blinken said, all acts of terrorism are unlawful and unjustifiable, whether they target people in Nairobi, BaliIstanbul or Mumbai, in New York or Kibbutz Beeri.

Blinkens analogy will of course not appeal to many on the ideological left in India and abroad. This is because, for narrow political gains, they have chosen to ignore the facts and paint Israel as the villain. For this group, Hamas fighters are the flag-bearers of a resistance movement launched to reclaim their holy land from the clutches of an alleged occupier.

There are several examples of this mischievous attempt at drawing a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas. Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, for one, has publicly cast Hamas as a principled set of warriors. Many here in India share the same view.

But the ecosystems whataboutery aside, Blinkens analogy is significant on three counts. First, it casts India very firmly as a subcontinental Israel. One under siege from Islamists that want to destroy Bharats secular foundations in the pursuit of a revanchist desire to re-establish Islamic rule across South Asia.

Second, Blinkens use of the phrase unlawful and unjustifiable is aimed at delegitimising the often-used root cause argument to rationalise everyday acts of terror against the Indian state and Indians. For far too long, these brazen acts of terror have been insidiously passed off as acts of resistance against the Indian occupation of Kashmir. The unresolved root cause if you like. Blinkens unequivocal hyphenation of Hamas to 26/11 mastermind LeT will help India blunt Pakistans mendacity in international fora where Islamabad has often used Western monkey balancing on Kashmir to its advantage.

Third, and perhaps most importantly, Blinken brackets Hindus with Jews, suggesting that they are the victims of xenophobia that originates from one common fount: the pulpit of a bigoted outlook. This will make it doubly difficult for many in the US who constantly rant about rising Islamophobia in India.

Those still unconvinced can acquaint themselves with the manifestoes of Hamas and Lashkar-e-Taiba. A cursory reading will easily settle the debate in favour of those who think that Indians and Israelis are the unprovoked victims of a fundamentally deep-seated Islamist chauvinism: the refusal to accept the rights of either the Jewish or Hindu belief system to exist as an alternative idea.
Reconciliation, security and peace are what Hindu-centric Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak, Mohan Bhagwat articulated while delivering his annual Vijayadashami speech at the organisations headquarters in Nagpur. This is at variance with radicalism and fundamentalism sought to be attached to Hindus and RSS by self-styled liberal minds, conspiracy theorists and those opposed to Bharats unity. RSS chiefs Dussehra speech is widely recognised in Bharat and internationally as a firm indicator of the organisations outlook towards issues, happenings and unfolding developments on the socio-economic and political front.

Sulah, Salamati & Aman is what Mohan Bhagwat pushed for with diverse communities that form larger Bharats society. Bhagwat appealed for reconciliation, security and peace against discord, strife and violence (fitna, fasad & kitan) to realise the vast breadth of unity in diversity that Bharats 1.4 billion population has been known for millennia.

The use of Arabic and Persian root words by the RSS chief to drive home the point of unity rising above differences seems a firm signal to over 210 million Muslims in India and their counterparts around the world, especially the Sunnis that eye RSS and Hindus with suspicion and distrust. His reference to Christians and other minorities that may have differences with Hindus is again significant given the tolerant, embracing attitude of Bharats citizens to all those who made this country their home.

There was very little or no mention of the RSS chiefs reconciliatory note in Bharats media or dispatches of foreign writers. Forging unity by rising above selfish and divisive tendencies disrupting Bharats growth seems to be the central theme of the RSS chiefs speech. RSSs appeal for forging unity as a mantra is refreshing and assuring given the false propaganda unleashed by Bharats rivals on reported Muslims genocide or Christians being targeted post-2014.

A couple of Christian and Muslim organisations have been propagating globally on their being targeted by RSS, BJP and Modi government, in that order. Sangh chief spoke for his organisation unequivocally and in plain terms that RSS does not believe in such an agenda. Playing victimhood, looking at each other with suspicion and seeking political dominance have been identified as three big evils that come in the way of achieving unity. RSS chief also made it clear that his push for unity did not tantamount to a ceasefire between the so-called warring parties. It was the RSS chiefs way of reflecting on cultural continuity, unity and vast diversity.

Rightly so, RSS targeted cultural Marxists and woke that have sought to dominate the narrative and peddle confusion, chaos and corruption through deceitful means to meet selfish ends and discriminatory attitudes. RSS chief came down heavily on these elements that promoted anarchy and indiscretion in public life as individuals and groups.

A lot of what Mohan Bhagwat said makes sense when one looks at disruptive campaigns, toolkits and physical demonstrations that are done by anti-Hindu conglomerations that are indoctrinated by misplaced Marxism, jihad, evangelism and of all, extremism and violence that breed divisiveness. A case in point is the aggressive, violent and extremist minority Khalistani elements in an otherwise calm and quiet larger Sikh community. These vocal groups and individuals, not very large in numbers in Bharat, UK, US, Canada and Europe have threatened to derail perception about Bharat globally.

The line of conciliation and message of unity propounded by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is significant given that Bharat is celebrating 75 years post-adoption of the countrys constitution and in 2025, RSS turns 100 years old with the rich legacy of its founders Dr Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and his successor, Madhav Sadashivrao Golwalkar.

Sanghs message of unity cannot be more apt given the challenges that Bharat faces within and outside as a country. Theres no denying that this unity should also be the driving force for Bharat to provide leadership globally, especially after an eventful G20 Presidency, forging bilateral and regional pacts with equanimity at the centre.

RSS chief seems to have exercised huge restraint in his commentary on the Russian onslaught of Ukraine and Hamas terror attack on Israel that have led to conflicts which will have a disruptive impact on humanity and economic recovery thats nascent post-Covid. Briefly, the RSS chief referred to the basic tenets of Sanatan Dharma as the guiding principles that shaped the Hindu way of life. He seems to have exercised a lot of restraint in calling out the likes of Tamil Nadus first political family that view Sanatan Dharma as dengue and malaria to be weeded out.

One issue thats dear to Hindus on which the RSS chief came out unambiguously is the grand Ram temple to house Ram Lalla at Ayodhya whose consecration has been scheduled for January 22 next year. RSS and like-minded organisations view the Ram temple as a unifying factor for all citizens in Bharat transcending caste, creed, sex, region and faith. His call for holding programmes that send out a strong message of unity across Bharat and globally is an extension of his extrapolation to rise above narrow mindset.

The Author is Director & Chief Executive of New Delhi based non-partisan think tank, Centre for Integrated and Holistic Studies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are not only going to be the biggest, they are also going to be the toughest as success for Opposition parties is survival. Moreover, we have a neighbour  China  which has taken a very aggressive stance against the current government and its policies. The biggest fear in next years elections is therefore interference by China and other foreign powers using AI, social media, and WhatsApp to build a narrative of disinformation by disrupting the selection of candidates, creating social unrest, and affecting the whole election process.

Desperate times lead to desperate measures. Besides Opposition parties, China and Pakistan are equally desperate. Moreover, AI has made disinformation so easy and cheap to circulate that it can be done by a small PR agency with limited manpower.

A chance to manage or disrupt political stability in an enemy state is the stuff of statecraft that intelligence officers dream about. Earlier, disruption in an election involved cash, lots of feet on the ground, and the ability to engineer a riot or a rout for the right candidate. Its impact was limited to a constituency, region, or mostly a state. Now, technology, social media, and artificial intelligence are offering the tools that allow these disruptions to be engineered from the comfort of an office in Beijing or Toronto across the country.

This Dussehra, an AI-based anchor, Zania, was greeting everyone on WhatsApp groups. Now, imagine a video of a political leader exhorting a particular community to riot as happened recently in the Nuh riots, but this time, created with Chinese funds by an Indian agency using AI.

In my conversations with intelligence officers, both serving and retired, on the weaponisation of disinformation to be used during elections, they are unanimous about it as the biggest known risk. While the Indian intelligence agencies will do what they can, there are many things they cannot do.

Disinformation spreads faster than truth and there is enough research done on why we tend to share it faster and how the credibility of every share adds to its virality and impact. Case Sunstein highlighted the impact of social media on democracy in his seminal work #Republic way back in 2000. The blurb for the book read, See only what you want to see, hear only what you want to hear, read only what you want to read.Our power to filter decreases exponentially if the content matches our beliefs.

With WhatsApp groups becoming the sole arbiters of sharing information, everything gets shared as facts. A Facebook post, a tweet, a random post on a medium or an OpEd written on a website, nobody seems to exercise the basic judgement of whether it is factual, or disinformation before sharing it.

People start exercising their immense capabilities to comment and opine about it because everyone has fingers and keypads but very little judgment over their reactions. Most WhatsApp groups are by their very design and selection extremely deep echo chambers so the sharing is based completely on what they already believe in. This is where disinformation thrives and grows into a narrative that impacts decision making like choosing a candidate in an election.

In a new book Why Falsehood Fly to be launched in February 2024, Paul Thagard, Distinguished Professor at Waterloo University says that motivated inferences drive acceptance of disinformation as truth. Everyone is prone and susceptible to motivated inference. Thagard cites examples of motivated inference in sports, even if a team is losing its fans will still believe that today the team will win, but are surprised and disappointed yet again. They will ignore the evidence and trend of poor performance and genuine challenges with the team.

Motivated inference is not just simpleminded wishful thinking, in that motivations do not lead directly to beliefs. Rather, the goals lead to acquiring and considering only selective information, so that the evidence that makes it reasonable to maintain an emotion-based belief is questionable.

Motivated inference also happens with stock market investors, This time is different, this is not a bubble it is the New Economy and I get it, but all these other naysayers do not really understand it.

This motivated inference can play havoc in election season if it is fed as disinformation by foreign powers looking to disrupt an election. According to an assessment by the US Intelligence Community of foreign threats to the 2020 US elections, Russian President Putin authorised Russians to engage in a multi-pronged campaign to denigrate the Democratic Party and Joe Bidens candidacy, specifically. The Russian efforts attempted to influence voters via disinformation and unsubstantiated allegations against Biden. This is captured in the US Department of National Intelligence report on interference in US elections in 2020. The allegations against President Biden were repeated by both traditional media and social media and in the end, as Goebbels said, a falsehood repeated long enough becomes the truth.

Another report from 2021 cites that Iran specifically used social media propaganda during civil unrest like protest marches and other demonstrations like Black Lives Matter in the US. DNI report on Iran said, We assess that Iran carried out an influence campaign during the 2020 US election season intended to undercut the re-election prospects of former President Trump and to further its longstanding objectives of exacerbating divisions in the US, creating confusion, and undermining the legitimacy of US elections and institutions. Tehrans efforts were aimed at denigrating former President Trump, not actively promoting his rivals. Irans efforts in 2020especially its emails to individual US voters and efforts to spread allegations of voter fraudwere more aggressive than in past election cycles.

The reason the US intelligence community is able to detect and describe these attempts by foreign intelligence agencies into US elections is because they have access to every email, post, and video posted on these social media platforms. Every internet company based in the US has to comply with a request for data including the origin of every post. The US has always trawled and tracked every bit of data on the internet for its benefit.

These social media companies do not give the same kind of access to Indian intelligence agencies to the same data, citing all kinds of legalese including freedom of expression. India banned TikTok and most social media apps from China but they still have a presence in India through their investment in Indian companies that control content. Some of these platforms have dropped news from their name but their role is perpetuating disinformation.

Meta-owned WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and the Elon Musk-owned X (formerly Twitter), a quartet of content feeds disinformation from one platform into another targeting different age groups. These platforms always cite the number of times the Indian government has asked them to bring down content but are rarely transparent about the number of times disinformation has circulated across their platform. Nor are they transparent about how they use or share information about users from one platform to another.

For instance, do you see an advertisement on Facebook that you have just searched on the browser? Now, this is the cookies gleaning all your data from your browser and feeding it back to Meta. Is it also doing the same with WhatsApp conversations? We dont know and nobody knows but they will certainly not share information about disinformation campaigns by foreign governments proactively with the Indian intelligence agencies.

This lacuna has to be addressed through policy if we have to keep the institutions safe. Social media may have decimated traditional media but if it destroys the election process? Digital India Bill addresses this issue but only partly by laying the content responsibility back on these platforms but it is not enough. There has to be debate, discussion, and decision on how to curb the disinformation on these platforms. They have failed to self-regulate themselves and their lobbying has run circles around Indian efforts to control it.

Hiding behind the garb of freedom of expression and pretending to be media entities all the while avoiding any responsibility of a media organisation is the worst abuse that these lobbyists have done. Now, it is up to the Digital India Bill to reintroduce the exceptional circumstances access where Indian intelligence agencies under the direction of the Central Election Commission are given access to the origin of disinformation on these platforms.

K Yatish Rajawat is a public policy researcher and works at the Gurgaon-based think and do tank Centre for Innovation in Public Policy (CIPP). Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
Lashing out at the BJP-led central government, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday termed the raids by the Enforcement Directorate against opposition leaders a dirty political game. The feisty chief minister, who has been recovering from a knee injury for nearly a month, also charged that like Mohammad bin Tughlak (whimsical medieval ruler), the BJP was attempting to change the countrys history by taking a series of ill-conceived decisions, including demonetisation and introduction of GST.

The TMC supremo also attacked the move by NCERT to use the name Bharat instead of India in school textbooks. The BJP says it wants sabka saath, sabka vikas, but actually means sabka saath, sabka satyanash, Banerjee thundered at a hurriedly called press conference at her residence near the Kalighat temple.

The ED on Thursday raided the residences of TMC minister Jyotipriya Mallick and others in connection with its probe into the alleged multicrore ration distribution scam. It also raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra in Jaipur and Sikar as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case.

Kya atyachar, kya anachar chal raha hai? (What atrocities, lawlessness are going on?) BJP is playing a dirty game in the name of ED raids on opposition leaders across the country ahead of the Lok Sabha elections (in 2024). I want to ask whether there has been a single such raid at any BJP leaders residence? she said.

The CM also threatened to file a police case against the BJP and ED if anything happens to Mallick during the searches at his residences in Kolkata. Jyotipriya Mallick is unwell. I will lodge an FIR if anything happens to him during the ED raids, she said.
IMC 2023: Asias largest technology forum, India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2023, is set to start from October 27 (Friday). The IMC 2023 will take place for three days  27th, 28th and 29th October, 2023 in New Delhi.

IMC 2023 Inauguration Time, Venue, PM Modi Speech And More

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 7th Edition of the Indian Mobile Congress 2023 at 9:45 AM on 27th October, 2023 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

During the programme, the Prime Minister will award 100 5G Use Case Labs to educational institutions across the country. These labs are being developed under the 100 5G labs initiative

Honble PM Shri Narendra Modi set to inaugurate India Mobile Congress 2023 on 27th October, 2023 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. Lets come and join us for an incredible showcase of innovation and technology," Department of Telecommunications (DoT) wrote on Micro-blogging platform X.

WATCH VIDEO: India Mobile Congress 2023: Tickets, How To Visit And Whats Inside | 5G | Jio | tech events

3 Days to be at the forefront of Asias largest tech event! Experience the next era of technology, from core chips powering our devices to the skies with drones. Join us at 27th-29th October23 at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi," India Mobile Congress posted on X.

IMC 2023 is jointly organised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). The event will act as a platform to highlight Indias advancements in telecommunications and technology.

IMC 2023: What To Expect

The three day congress will highlight technologies such as 5G, 6G, Artificial intelligence (AI) and discuss issues pertaining to semiconductor industry, green technology, cybersecurity etc.

This year, IMC is introducing a startup program  Aspire. It will foster connections between startups, investors, and established businesses with an aim to catalyse fresh entrepreneurial initiatives and collaborations.

IMC 2023 will be attended by over one lakh participants from about 22 countries including about 5000 CEO level delegates, 230 exhibitors, 400 startups, and other stakeholders.

IMC 2023 will also expand to related tech domains such as broadcast, sat-com, manufacturing, and semiconductors through collaborations with various associations like Elcina, IESA, ISpA, DFI and others.
Microsoft was a major part of the mobile division with Windows Phone when it still had access to Nokia patents and technology. The company decided to give up on the project altogether, giving Google all the control over the mobile ecosystem after it acquired Android in late 2000s. Microsoft CEO, Satya Nadella continues to share the companys mistake to stop focusing on the platform and serve people with more than two mobile operating systems.

Speaking in an interview with the Business Insider, Nadella is the latest Microsoft CEO to share this feeling and he feels the company was never able to see the future of a mobile device and how it will shape the industry for years to come. Nadella was asked whether Microsoft sees the end of Windows Phone as a mistake or a business decision that was forced on the company.

Nadella had taken over from Steve Ballmer in 2014 when he was put in place to spearhead a massive turnover for the company. And one of the decisions Nadella made was to exit the mobile business.

Nadella also explains that Microsoft could have handled this decision a lot better, which could have allowed the company to operate in the mobile business and who knows, eventually come up with a success formula that would have made it a strong contender in the market. It is hardly surprising to see Nadella talking about the mobile business in an interview once again, and it is clearly evident that exiting the mobile segment is the biggest regret that all the Microsoft chiefs have over the years.

Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer have often talked about their regrets and now when they see Apple making billions from selling iPhones, it must really hurt them. Ballmer has once ridiculed Apple for launching a mobile phone costing thousands of dollars, and fast-forward to 2023, that phone is one of the best in the market which has helped Apple become a trillion-dollar brand. To be fair, Nadella has made some brave decisions during his time at Microsoft and the company is surely benefiting from his clever moves, turning Microsoft into a hard-core business entity.

Having said that, Microsoft has made deals with Samsung to offer its Office suite of apps on Galaxy phones, while also working on apps like Phone Link which lets you mirror your smartphone to a Windows PC. Microsoft did enter the foldable segment with the Surface Duo lineup but its future is also in question with no new products in the pipeline and the man heading the Surface division has joined Amazons hardware business earlier this year.

There is no doubting that everyone has regrets, and giving up on the mobile business so easily would be one of the biggest that Nadella and Co. will always have with them.
The ports of Odesa continue to receive ships along the temporary corridor established by the Naval Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The Deputy Prime Minister, Minister for Communities and Territories Development and Infrastructure Oleksandr Kubrakov said on Twitter, information about the cancellation or unexpected stop of the corridor is not true.

Information about the cancellation or unexpected stop of the temporary corridor for the movement of civilian ships from/to the ports of Odesa is not true. All routes established by the Ukrainian Navy are valid and are used by civilian ships, Kubrakov wrote.

He clarified that since the corridor operates in the extremely difficult conditions of Russian military aggression, it operates taking into account the military situation and weather conditions.

According to the ministry, there are now 23 ships in the process of loading in the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Yuzhny. Since the corridor began operating on September 16, some 51 vessels have used it to enter. Some 33 vessels have already exported more than 1.3 million tonnes of Ukrainian agricultural products and other cargo.

Earlier, Barva Invest consulting company reported on Telegram that the movement of vessels entering/exiting the sea corridor in the Black Sea was suspended on October 26.

The Ukrainian Sea Ports Authority on the evening of October 25 announced the suspension of vessel movement in and out of the corridor as of October 26, 2023. This de facto suspension has been in effect for the past two days due to military decisions citing an explosive threat arising from increased Russian aviation activity, the report indicated.
Qualcomm has announced its latest mobile flagship chipset that will be part of most smartphones launching in the next few months and early 2024. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset is focusing on AI like every other tech company these days but now mobile devices will get these capabilities. While it is too early to talk about its performance, features and improvements, brands have already lapped up the new chipset from Qualcomm and even confirmed which of their phones will be the first to be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. The list includes prominent names like OnePlus, Xiaomi and iQOO among others.

Phones Launching With Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Chipset

OnePlus 12

OnePlus will be one of the first names to use the new chipset and the next flagship model, the OnePlus 12 will be getting AI goodness among other performance gains. OnePlus is already talking about the upcoming phone, and reports say the company will launch it sometime early next year.

Xiaomi 14 Series

Xiaomi is probably going to be the first brand to announce its new phones with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. In fact, the company is hosting a launch event this week to unveil the new phones. The Xiaomi 14 models have been confirmed to be using the new Qualcomm chip and were eager to hear more about its power and other features.

iQOO 12

iQOO is another brand that is vying for a space in the flagship table. The company has confirmed it will be launching the first Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 phone in India and it will be called the iQOO 12. We dont know much about the device or its possible design and features but iQOO has repeatedly tried to show its seriousness about India and the latest update is part of its strategy.

Realme GT5 Pro

Realme is also likely to be in the mix with the upcoming GT series phone. The company has shown its flagship credentials at a lower price band with the GT 2 Pro and now it seems keen on pushing the needle with the GT5 Pro that will be using the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.

Oppo Find X7 Series

Oppo is also expected to have the new Find X series powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip but were not sure if the Find X7 and X7 Pro will get the hardware or will Oppo limit its usage to the Pro variant.
In what comes as a shocking incident, an Australian woman found a dead frog while emptying a bag of spinach into her cooking pan. Australian TikTok user Simone Baker uploaded a video of the same on TikTok, expressing her disappointment. Simone was in the middle of making a tasty pasta dish but when she decided to add spinach to the mix, she discovered something that she did not expect at all. Simone expressed feeling traumatised.

According to reports, Simone, in the caption of her video wrote, Woolies the fresh food people, quite literally a fresh frog in my spinach. Cant get much fresher than that.

Also Read: Bengaluru IKEA Apologises After Customers Viral Tweet Shows Dead Rat on Food Court Table

It seems like Simone had contacted customer service at Woolworths as she mentioned in the comments, What kills me is how they asked, Does the foreign body have any missing limbs?

Soon after the incident went viral, a spokesperson for Woolworths offered a statement. He said that the supplier conducted numerous quality assessments on this batch of spinach leaves and did not detect any foreign objects

throughout the processing, so this appears to be an isolated incident.

We take all customer feedback seriously and understand this must have been an unwelcome surprise for this customer, particularly with the online comments on how delicious the meal looked, he further added.

Also Read: Instant Nightmare: Man Orders Sony TV Worth Rs 1 Lakh From Flipkart, Receives This Instead

Meanwhile, earlier, a woman who visited the IKEA store in Bengaluru had a horrifying experience when a mouse fell from the ceiling onto her table. This happened while she was enjoying her meal at the popular furniture store. X user Sharanyashettyy shared shocking images of the incident. In the shared pics, one can see dead mouse on the table with their snacks. In the caption she wrote, Wtf.. guess what fell on our food table at IKEA I cant even. We were eating and this rat just dropped dead Most bizarre moment ever!
Shortly after the online buzz erupted with news and snapshots of Shraddha Kapoors extravagant purchase  a sleek red Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica valued at Rs. 4 crore, on the auspicious occasion of Dussehra  the Bollywood sensation found herself entangled in a controversy that accelerated faster than her high-end, fuel-guzzling beauty on the open road. The cause of this digital uproar? Kapoors active role in protests against the construction of a Metro car shed in the Aarey forest belt of Mumbai back in 2019.

And her recent decision to acquire a diesel-guzzling Lamborghini was perceived as a stark contradiction, and social media promptly resurfaced her images from the protests, including one where she was seen wearing a Save Aarey t-shirt, thus highlighting what some viewed as her hypocrisy.

Also Read: Money Can Buy You Mahira Khan: X Users Post on Pakistani Actress Marriage Gets Instantly Shut Down

To put it in numbers, the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica boasts an ARAI-rated fuel efficiency of 7 kilometers per litre of diesel it consumes. However, in city conditions, considering Mumbais traffic, the cars effective fuel efficiency drops to 3 to 4 kilometers per litre. Moreover, her previous automobile choices were hardly known for their fuel efficiency. Given this backdrop, the actress faced a barrage of criticism from the online community, and social media was flooded with images of her from the 2019 protest as people started trolling her left, right, and centre.

One users comment resounded with sharp irony, @ShraddhaKapoor which fuel does this car use. Oxygen from the Aarey trees that you saved and delayed the project. Another astutely pointed out, I think we need to see the difference between a lifestyle choice and an extravagance , surely no one expects protestors to wear a loin cloth and ride a cycle , but the optics of holding a save aarey placard in one hand and the steering of a fuel guzzler in another is not pretty. A third quipped, The Mileage of Lambo would be 5-6 kmpl. Madam ji was part of the Aarey protest. Effectively delaying the public transport for millions.

In October 2019, Kapoor had vocally opposed the felling of trees and wrote on Instagram, This is wrong and should not be happening and Mumbaikars, wake up. She also attended the protest wearing a T-shirt with Save Aarey written on it and held up posters at the protest site.

Also Read: Varun Dhawan Trolled for Lifting Gigi Hadid During NMACC Dance Show, Actor Responds

Now, with her opulent purchase of a Lamborghini, critics couldnt resist pointing out the stark contrast between the cars low mileage and its higher CO2 emissions, features opposed to the sustainability and eco-friendly ethos she championed during the Save Aarey campaign. In fact, the very ideals she had passionately fought for were now seemingly left behind in the fumes of her high-speed ride into controversy!
US Mass Shooting News: Hundreds of police searched the US city of Lewiston and surrounding areas of Maine state for a man sought in connection with mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley, killing 18 people, with dozens more wounded. Police reported two shooting incidents in Lewiston  at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street.

Not too long after the shooting was reported, Robert Card was identified as a person of interest in the mass killing. 40-year-old Card, a firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve, was recently discharged from a mental health facility after reporting hallucinations. Maine officials say hundreds of police officers are now working across the state to locate Card, who is considered armed and dangerous.

What we know about the suspect

The vehicle connected to Robert Card, identified by police as a person of interest, was located in Lisbon Wednesday night. Shortly after that, town offices in Lisbon, which neighbors Lewiston, Maine, where the shootings took place Wednesday night, will be closed on Thursday as a manhunt continues. Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. All town offices will be closed on October 26th. Please prioritize safety and continue to shelter in place, the town website was quoted as saying by CNN.

As police continue to search for Card, local schools have announced they will cancel classes on Thursday. There remains a lot of unknowns at this time. Information moves quickly but not always accurately. Please continue to shelter in place or get to safety. We will continue to update you with information and next steps as appropriate, Lewiston Public Schools said in a post.

Fear and Panic

Witnesses of the shootings in Lewiston were of all ages, said Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque, adding that the community was in shock. While addressing the media, Levesque said there was a lot of fear, panic and worry among residents there.

You can train for this but you can never be completely prepared, Levesque said. Its an all-hands-on-deck situation. Levesque told CNN he wasnt aware of any children among those killed  but knows one high school student who was wounded. Auburn and Lewiston are side by side  a river separates us. Combined, our population is around 60,000. You cannot help but know people who know someone, so this will impact every corner of our community, he said.

Biden in Action

After the news about the Lewiston mass shootings got out, US President Joe Biden spoke by phone with a number of Maine lawmakers, the White House press office told pool. The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack, the White House said in a statement.

Aside from local police, FBI and US Homeland Security have offered help in the deadly shootings. The entire Department of Homeland Security grieves with the loved ones of those killed and injured, and stands with the brave law enforcement officers and first responders who are currently working to secure and safeguard the people of Lewiston, the spokesperson said in a statement.

The FBI office in Boston said its ready to assist following the deadly mass shootings in Lewiston. The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance, the FBI in Boston said in a statement.

Gun violence is alarmingly common in the US. The country has recorded over 500 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a non-governmental organization that defines a mass shooting as four or more people wounded or killed.
The United States has clarified earlier reports that said President Joe Biden suggested the October 7 attack on Israel was linked to plans announced for an India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). Addressing a press briefing on Thursday, National Security Councils Strategic Communications Coordinator John Kirby, said Biden had been misunderstood.

Responding to a question on Bidens remarks, Kirby said,  I think you misunderstood him. What he said was that he believed that the normalization process and the agreement that we were trying to reach between Israel and Saudi Arabia for normalization, which we believe is an important stepping stone to getting to a two-state solution, was what may have motivated Hamas to  to conduct those attacks.

Earlier, it was reported that Biden believed that one of the reasons behind the Hamas attack could be the ambitious infrastructure project announced during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi. The IMEEC launched earlier this year aims to connect the entire region through an extensive railroad network.

While talking to reporters at a presser in Washington, Biden this week said, Im convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did  and I have no proof of this; just my instinct tells me  is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel and regional integration overall. And we cant leave that work behind.

The IMEEC, which many see as an alternative to Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September. The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe.

Arguing for greater cooperation in the region, Biden had said the idea that the Middle Eastern nations cooperating economically and politically changes the dynamics significantly. And so, I  I just think that it is  its something that its in everyones interest  including, long-term, in Chinas interest, he said.

Since the start of the war, Israeli airstrikes have devastated parts of the Gaza Strip after the initial Hamas attack killed more than 1,400 people. A subsequent military response by Israel in Gaza has also claimed the lives of over 6,000 Palestinians. The UN warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the densely populated conclave, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts.

(With agency inputs)
Canada has welcomed Indias decision to resume some visa services in the country from Thursday, saying the move was a good sign, amid a diplomatic row over the killing of a Sikh separatist. Indias high commission in Canada said on Wednesday that the countrys officials will resume processing some types of visa applications for Canadians applying from across the country as well as abroad.

The decision came a month after New Delhi suspended the services in Canada and for Canadian citizens worldwide as tensions flared between the two nations last month following Prime Minister Justin Trudeaus allegations of the potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18 in British Columbia.

India had designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020. India has rejected Trudeaus allegations as absurd and motivated. On Wednesday afternoon, Immigration Minister Marc Miller called Indias move a good sign after an anxious time for his many Canadians. Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place, he was quoted as saying by CTV News.

He said the really concerning diplomatic situation with India has created a lot of fear in a lot of communities. Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan, who is also a Sikh, said the resumption of visa processing is good news, but wouldnt speculate on what message New Delhi is trying to send.

Its good to see that they have resumed that. It would have been nice (if) they didnt take it in the first place, Sajjan told reporters. He said it was important that Indians and Canadians can go back and forth when it comes to events like weddings and funerals. He added that Ottawa is still seeking Indias help as police investigate the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India will resume services for entry visas, business visas, medical visas and conference visas.

Marilyne Guevremont, a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada (GAC)  the department that manages the countrys diplomatic and consular relations, told CBC News that GAC is aware of the Indian governments decision to resume certain categories of visa processing for Canadians.

Canada and India share important people-to-people ties and Indias resumption of visa services will make it easier for families and businesses to travel between our countries, Guevremont. In a statement, the Canada-India Business Council said it was a promising development for trade relations. It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times, wrote council head Victor Thomas. The development came days after Canada pulled out 41 of its diplomats from India.

Before Trudeaus announcement dramatically heightened tensions between Canada and India, New Delhi had publicly denounced protests by Sikh separatist groups outside its diplomatic missions in Canada, as well as posters that appeared to offer cash rewards in exchange for the home addresses of Indian diplomats. India formally called on Canada to better uphold its duty to protect foreign diplomats. India had also asked Canada to come down hard on terrorists and anti-India elements operating from its soil and suspended visa services for Canadians.
In a major development, leaders of Iran, Hamas, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) convened their first official meeting in the capital city of Lebanon. This historic gathering in Beirut included Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Hamas deputy-commander Saleh al-Arouri, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader Ziyad Nakhalah.

The Iranian media shared photographs of the meeting, which took place 19 days after the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East. According to reports from Iranian media, the three prominent figures in the world of terror organisations have reached an agreement to enhance their daily coordination. Their discussions primarily centered around strategies to achieve a perceived victory over Israel.

Saleh al-Arouri, a key figure within Hamas, has previously been linked to the 2014 kidnapping and murder of three Israelis, an incident that triggered a 50-day war. He has maintained a frequent presence in various countries, including Qatar, Turkey, and Lebanon.

Ever since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, a key question has been looming whether Lebanons heavily armed militia will join the conflict. The answer could well determine the direction of a battle that is bound to reshape the Middle East. Barring a few rocket launches, Hezbollah has so far been on the fence about joining the fighting between Israel and the Gaza Strips Islamic militant rulers.

This latest high-stakes meeting underscores Irans explicit support for Hamas and suggests a substantial level of logistical backing for the organization. Iran has been actively constructing an Axis of Resistance, a coalition preparing for a more extensive conflict involving the United States and Israel.

Recent events, such as the Iran-backed Houthi missile and drone attack on Israel in Yemen on October 18, indicate Irans efforts to encourage its proxies to target Israel from multiple fronts.

The attack was successfully intercepted by a U.S. warship in the Red Sea, highlighting the escalating tensions and confrontations in the region. This high-level meeting reflects Irans unwavering support for Hamas and its broader ambitions in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
As Israel continues bombardments in the Gaza Strip, Hamas claimed on Thursday that Israeli airstrikes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of nearly 50 people whom its militants had taken as captives in violent cross-border attacks.

The Palestine-based terror group launched a surprise attack on October 7, the worst in Israeli history, and killed more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapped 224 more. FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES IN ISRAEL HAMAS WAR HERE

Israel has responded with continuous airstrikes and over 7,000 people have been killed, according to Gazas Hamas-controlled health ministry. The toll is expected to increase significantly if Israeli forces stationed near the border launch an offensive.

UN humanitarian coordinator for the Palestinian territories, Lynne Hastings, stated that despite the Israeli militarys warnings to the population of Gaza City to evacuate, it appears that these advance notifications have had little impact.

She said in a statement that when evacuation routes are bombed, people are left with nothing but impossible choices. Nowhere is safe in Gaza.

Top Israel Hamas War Updates:
Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have intensified their operation to eliminate Hamas terrorists who launched the worst attack in the history of the Jewish nation, killing over 1,400 people.

The IDF shared video footage from its operation in Kibbutz Beeri, situated near the southern border of Israel in which soldiers were seen chasing Hamas terrorists and neutralising them within minutes.

In the footage, IDF soldiers can be seen firing at the terrorists vehicle, killing the driver who then lost control of the vehicle. The soldiers then killed the other terrorists who tried to escape.

Watch this never-before-seen footage of combat soldiers from the IDFs Shaldag Unit operating to neutralize terrorists and rescue the civilians of Kibbutz Beeri:In the footage, you can see the IDF soliders firing at the terrorists vehicle, killing the driver who then lost pic.twitter.com/qnXcqDSzCV  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 25, 2023

Israeli Tanks In Overnight Gaza Raid Ahead Of Next Stage

Israel said Thursday that a column of tanks and infantry had launched an overnight raid into Hamas-controlled Gaza, striking numerous targets before retreating to home soil.

The military announced the incursion into the north of the Palestinian territory hours after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared preparations for a ground war were underway.

The Israel Defense Forces described the operation as a targeted raid that hit numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.

It said the operation was preparation for the next stages of combat adding that the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory.

Black-and-white video footage posted by the military showed a column of armoured vehicles and bulldozers winding toward what appeared to be a border fence and breaking through it.

In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts. The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Israel has retaliated with heavy bombing that Gazas Hamas-run health ministry said has killed more than 6,500, with the toll expected to rise substantially if tens of thousands of Israeli troops massed near Gaza move in.

Israel PM says will give answers on Hamas attacks lapses

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday acknowledged for the first time that he would have to give answers for security lapses exposed in the deadly October 7 attacks by Hamas.

We will examine in detail, we will get to the bottom of it, said Netanyahu, who has faced a barrage of opposition and media criticism after Gaza militants breached Israeli border defences.

The fault will be examined and everyone will have to give answers, including me. But all this will happen later, the right-wing leader said in a televised address as the Israeli military prepares for a widely expected invasion of the Gaza Strip.

As prime minister, I am responsible for securing the future of the country, he added.

(With AFP inputs)
Speaker Mike Johnson called up a resolution supporting Israel in his first action as leader of the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, after a three-week leadership vacuum that left the Republican-led chamber unable to respond to the Middle East crisis.

The first bill Im going to bring to this floor in a little while will be in support of our dear friend Israel and we are overdue in getting that done, Johnson said as he accepted the speakership.

The House backed the resolution by 412 to 10, with six members voting present, reflecting traditional strong support in Congress for the Jewish state. The non-binding measure reaffirms U.S. commitment to Israel and calls on Hamas to immediately cease attacks and release every hostage.

Nine of the no votes were from Democrats, some of whom said they opposed the resolution since it did not address the loss of Palestinian lives, and one from a Republican. All six of the present votes came from Democrats.

The House had been without a speaker since Oct. 3, when eight Republicans joined Democrats to oust Kevin McCarthy, the first time a U.S. speaker has been removed from the position. Johnson, a social conservative with little leadership experience, was elected speaker on Wednesday.

The Johnson-led House must soon address a measure that would have the force of law. Democratic President Joe Biden asked Congress last week to pass a $106 billion funding package including billions of dollars in assistance for Ukraine, Taiwan and border security in addition to $14.3 billion for Israel.

Johnsons elevation muddied prospects for that broad funding request. Like many other Republicans closely allied to former President Donald Trump, the new speaker has been an opponent of Ukraine aid. A report card by the conservative Republicans for Ukraine campaign gave Johnson an F Very Poor rating based on his past votes against assistance for Kyiv in its fight against Russia.

Johnson said on Wednesday he backed aid for Ukraine with conditions. He told reporters, Were working through it. We want accountability and we want objectives that are clear from the White House. But were going to have those discussions. Itll be very productive.

In the Middle East, war broke out on Oct. 7 with an attack on Israel by Palestinian Hamas militants who killed 1,400 people and took another 200 hostage, Israel has said. Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed over 6,500 people in Gaza, the health ministry in the Hamas-run strip said. Reuters was unable to verify those figures independently.
The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS), with the support of the Swiss Red Cross, continues to implement a project to install mobile shelters in Kherson region.

Today, another three more shelters from the Ukrainian Red Cross have been installed in Kherson region ... mobile reinforced concrete structures were delivered to the villages of Chornobayivka, Stanyslav and the village of Bilozerka. Shelters have been installed near outpatient clinics and crowded places, URCS reported on Facebook on Thursday.

Next week it is planned to deliver two more shelters for the needs of the Daryivska merged community.

In total, as part of the project, it is planned to deliver and install 13 more mobile shelters by the end of this year.

URCS recalled that in July, in cooperation with the Ministry for the Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories of Ukraine, 10 mobile shelters were installed in Kherson and Beryslav districts of Kherson region in settlements located along the Dnipro River. The area of each shelter is 10 m2, they can accommodate from 10 to 15 people at the same time.
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) again failed to take action regarding the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas. Russia and China used their veto power to block a draft resolution led by the US on Wednesday, while a separate proposal led by Moscow did not gain sufficient support.

After exercising its veto last week, the United States put forward its own resolution that would support humanitarian pauses to let aid into the blockaded Gaza Strip and back the right of all states to self-defense within the confines of international law. The US-led draft did not call for a full ceasefire, according to a draft resolution seen by AFP.

China and Russia veto US-sponsored draft resolution, while a second Russian-led one did not adopt as it did not to get sufficient votes in favour, deepening the Security Councils deadlock over any unified response to the crisis in Gaza and Israelhttps://t.co/tNnefFP9fJ UN News (@UN_News_Centre) October 25, 2023

US Resolution

As many as ten countries backed the US resolution but Russia and China exercised their veto power. The United Arab Emirates also voted in opposition, with the other two countries, Brazil and Mozambique, abstaining. US envoy Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that the US had incorporated feedback from the rest of the world since its veto.

Today, Russia and China prevented the UN Security Council from sending a clear message to the world  and most importantly, to Israelis and Palestinians  that we are determined to meet this difficult moment.While they obstruct, we continue to work with all Member States to  Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield (@USAmbUN) October 25, 2023

The United States is deeply disappointed that Russia and China vetoed this resolution, Thomas-Greenfield said. We did listen to all of you. She accused Russia, often on the receiving end of criticism since its invasion of Ukraine, of cynical and irresponsible behavior for putting forward its own text with zero consultations and a number of problematic sections.

Russias Draft

Russia put forward its own proposal that sought an immediate, durable and fully respected humanitarian ceasefire and condemns all violence and hostilities against civilians. It has became clear from that the US simply doesnt want UN Security Council decisions to have any kind of influence on a possible ground offensive by Israel in Gaza, said the Russian representative, Vassily Nebenzia. This extremely politicised document clearly has one aim  not to save civilians but to shore up the US political position in the region, he said.

Only Russia, China, the United Arab Emirates and Gabon voted for the draft resolution. The United States and Britain voted no, with the other nine countries including US allies France and Japan abstaining. With the Security Council deadlocked the broader UN General Assembly is scheduled to debate the war on Thursday and Friday.

Reports from multiple agencies say that resolutions from this body representing all UN members, with no one holding veto power, are non-binding. Still, Arab countries are working on a resolution that could be voted on this week. This draft reportedly urges an immediate ceasefire and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.

Israel has been bombarding since October 7 when Hamas launched a massive assault, killing 1,400 people and kidnapping 222 others. Meanwhile, over 6,500 Palestinians have been killed, and there are fears the toll could further soar if Israel pushes ahead with a widely expected ground invasion to destroy Hamas and rescue the hostages.

(With agency inputs)
A gunman is on the loose in the US city of Lewiston after killing 18 people and injuring dozens of others in Wednesday nights mass shooting. Earlier, US media reported an active shooter incident in the state of Maine at three locationsSchemengees Bar and Grille Restaurant, a Walmart store, and Sparetime Recreation.

Lewiston officials earlier sent out an emergency alert for the public to seek shelter due to an active shooter. The local sheriffs office released images of a suspect holding a high-powered assault-style rifle, who was later identified as former US Army Instructor Robert Card.

Who is Robert Card?

Card, who is in his 40s, is a former firearms instructor in the US Army Reserve and was recently discharged from a mental health facility after reporting hallucinations. Aside from local police, FBI and US Homeland Security have offered help in the deadly shootings.

Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening. CARD should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts, Lewiston police said in a statement on Facebook.

BREAKING NEWS: Here is the official photo of the Maine Mass Shooter via the Official Active Shooter Brief From Maine State Police on Robert Card. Trained Firearms Instructor  Army Reservist  Reported Mental Health Issues &  Committed to Mental Health Facility pic.twitter.com/XstpOEATsc  Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) October 26, 2023

Gun violence is alarmingly common in the United States, a country where there are more guns than people and where attempts to clamp down on their spread are always met with stiff resistance. The United States has recorded over 500 mass shootings this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, a non-governmental organization that defines a mass shooting as four or more people wounded or killed.

Maine Governor Janet Mills has said she has been briefed on the situation. I am aware of and have been briefed on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the direction of State and local enforcement. I will to continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials, the governor wrote on X.

US President Joe Biden spoke by phone with a number of Maine lawmakers in the wake of the mass shootings in Lewiston, the White House press office told pool Wednesday. The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack, the White House said in a statement.

(With agency inputs)
Zelenskyy at meeting of European Council: The sooner security returns to Middle East, the sooner we will restore it in Europe

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking via video link at a meeting of the European Council on Thursday, called on European states to make efforts to prevent military escalation in the Middle East.

I thank everyone who is making every effort to maintain unity with Ukraine and within the European Union. I would like to emphasize unity in connection with the situation in the Middle East. We must do everything to prevent an even greater international fire in the Middle East, Zelenskyy stated.

As he emphasized, the enemies of freedom are very interested in taking the free world to a second front, and we must clearly see this calculation and resist it together.

I thank all the leaders whose active diplomacy is already working for the benefit of security. The sooner security dominates there in the Middle East, the sooner we will restore security here in Europe, the President said.
A CHINESE businessman, who is a witness in a R2.7 million fraud case, was locked up after he failed to submit his passport as surety that he will attend trial.

Wang Xiang, who was representing Sunny Yifeng Tiles Company in a fraud trial, wrote to the prosecution that they intended to withdraw the matter between themselves and another Chinese businessman, Hu Dong.

They were claiming the issue, in which they claimed Hu Dong had duped them, had been settled out of court.

The request was turned down by the prosecution, which went on to set a trial date for November 9.

Xiang, through his lawyers, then made another request that the trial be heard this week as he intended to travel to China next week, and did not know when he will return.

This prompted the State to file an application requesting surety in terms Section 234 of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act.

Xiang was asked to take the witness stand and he told the court that his passport was at the immigration office.

Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka ordered that he be held in custody.

Dong initially appeared in court last week and was denied bail.

The court heard that on June 17 last year, Dong came to Zimbabwe and allegedly misled Sunny Yifeng Tiles that he could pay for tiles worth R1 007 224.

The tiles were delivered to an unknown destination in South Africa.

Dong then sent a fake proof of payment to the company purporting to have transferred R1 007 224 from his South African bank to Sunny Yifeng Tiles Zimbabwe bank account.

On August 24, last year, Dong allegedly ordered a second batch of tiles for R649 952, which were also delivered to an unknown destination in South Africa.

Its claimed he again sent a fake proof of payment.

Dong came to Zimbabwe last week and went to Sunny Yifeng Tiles office in Norton intending to use the same modus operandi to buy tiles worth US$45 000.

When he was confronted about the fake payments, he allegedly promised to sort out the issue.

He was arrested. H Metro






A WOMAN from Harare who was in the business of selling medicines for diabetic patients illegally was yesterday fined US$100.

Grace Tagwireyi (35) appeared before Harare magistrate Yeukai Dzuda charged with selling complementary medicines without the authority of the Medical Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ).

She pleaded guilty.

MCAZ was represented by its inspector, Arnold Kunaka.

Prosecuting, Ms Nomsa Kangara told the court that on October 4, MCAZ received information that Tagwirei was advertising and selling phytomed diabetes medicine.

At around 1:14 pm, Mr Kunaka in the company of Constable Samaneka of the Zimbabwe Republic Police stationed at Harare Licence, visited Tagwireyi at her shop at Boka House, Robson Manyika Avenue, Harare.

She was found selling some complementary medicines, phytomed Khoisan Herbal Product. When she was interrogated they discovered that she had no authority to sell medicines.

A total of 14 x1 litre phytomed Khoisan herbal products were recovered. Herald






Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking via video link at a meeting of the European Council on Thursday, called on European states to expand long-term support programs for Ukraine.

In a confrontation like the one Russia has unleashed, the winner is the one who proposes a long-term strategy. Russia must understand that its aggressive ambitions will endure less than our ability to protect freedom. Therefore, every approved program of such long-term support for Ukraine is a clear signal to Russia that its aggression is in vain and that no matter how many resources Putin spends on the war, he will not win, he said.

So, in his words, the Russian elite must see and feel this, so that it will be more difficult for the Russian dictator to maintain his position.

Therefore, it is worth expanding our experience of long-term support programs. Each of these decisions is not easy. But each of them is the defense of freedom and our Europe. A safe Europe, the President said.

At the same time, Zelenskyy thanked individual EU states for the long-term support programs already provided, including budgetary ones. In particular, according to him, among European countries there are already corresponding decisions on such programs from Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Lithuania and the European Commission.

Outside the EU, I thank Norway, Japan and Switzerland for their long-term steps. A long-term step is being considered in the United States, he concluded.
Japan's Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that a law requiring transgender people to undergo sterilization surgery in order to officially change their gender is unconstitutional. The decision by the top court's 15-judge Grand Bench was its first on the constitutionality of Japan's 2003 law requiring the removal of sex organs for a state-recognized gender change, a practice long criticized by international rights and medical groups. The decision, which requires the government to reconsider the law, is a first step toward allowing transgender people to change their identity in official documents without getting sterilized. But it was not a full victory because the Supreme Court sent the case back to the high court to further examine the requirement for gender-affirmation surgery, the AP reports.

The case was filed in 2020 by a claimant whose request for a gender change in her family registryto female from assigned male at birthwas turned down by lower courts. The decision comes at a time of heightened awareness of issues surrounding LGBTQ+ people in Japan and is a partial victory for that community. The judges unanimously ruled that the part of the law requiring sterilization for a gender change is unconstitutional, according to the court document and the claimant's lawyers. But the top court ordered the case to be sent back to the high court for further review of the requirement for gender-affirmation surgery, a decision the claimant's lawyers said was regrettable because it delays the settlement of the issue.

Under the law, transgender people who want to have their gender assigned at birth changed on family registries and other official documents must be diagnosed as having gender dysmorphia and undergo an operation to remove their sex organs. Other requirements are that they are unmarried and do not have children. LGBTQ+ activists in Japan have recently stepped up efforts to pass an anti-discrimination law since a former aide to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in February that he wouldn't want to live next to LGBTQ+ people and that citizens would flee Japan if same-sex marriage were allowed. But changes have come slowly, per the AP. Japan remains the only Group of Seven member that does not allow same-sex marriage or legal protections, including an effective anti-discrimination law.

(Read more Japan stories.)
Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor for triggering a fire alarm as lawmakers scrambled to pass a funding bill before a government shutdown deadline in September. The New York lawmaker acknowledged pulling the alarm, telling reporters hours later that it was a mistake, the AP reports. He said he was rushing to get to votes and trying to get through a door that is usually open. At the time of the evacuation, House Democrats were working to delay a vote on a funding bill to keep federal agencies open. They had said they needed time to review a bill that Republicans abruptly released to avoid a shutdown

"I want to be very clear: this was not me, in any way, trying to delay any vote," Bowman told reporters. "It was the exact oppositeI was trying urgently to get to a vote." He has been ordered to appear at DC Superior Court for his arraignment Thursday morning, CBS News reports. Bowman's office said Wednesday that he had reached an agreement with the DC attorney general for the charge to be withdrawn in three months if apologizes to Capitol Police, the Hill reports. He will also be required to pay a $1,000 fine.

In a statement, Bowman thanked the AG's office for the "quick resolution" and said he was glad that the Capitol force's general counsel's office "agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings." He added: "I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped." (Read more Jamaal Bowman stories.)
The $267,230 loan to Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas from a wealthy friend was forgiven after almost nine years, Senate Democrats have found, though he may not have paid anything on the principal. A report by Democratic members of the Senate Finance Committee says it's not clear how many payments on the interest Thomas made, either, before Anthony Welters pronounced the loan that enabled the justice to buy a 40-foot luxury motor coach satisfied in 2008, the New York Times reports. The handling of the loan could pose ethical and tax consequences for Thomas.

When he received the loan, Thomas said in a handwritten note on his Supreme Court letterhead that he agreed to pay interest of 7.5% a year and repay the money in five years, the report says. In 2004, the time to repay the loan was extended until 2014, per the AP. "This was, in short, a sweetheart deal" that made no sense as a business proposition, Michael Hamersley, a tax lawyer, told the Times. Even with those terms, Thomas didn't pay back a "significant portion" of the principal, and possibly not any of it, the report says.

The report notes that forgiven or canceled debt counts as income for tax purposes; Thomas has never included forgiven debt in his annual financial disclosures. "Justice Thomas should inform the committee exactly how much debt was forgiven and whether he properly reported the loan forgiveness on his tax returns and paid all taxes owed," Democratic Sen. Ron Wyden, chairman of the committee, said in a statement. Thomas did not immediately respond to requests for comment. (Thomas didn't report trips paid for by another wealthy benefactor, either.)
The parents of Travis King plan to fight the charges against him "hard," they tell ABC News in an interview. Upon the Army private's release from a South Korean detention facility, where he was held for 47 days after allegedly assaulting a person at a nightclub, he was due to return to the US to face further disciplinary measures. Instead, he crossed into North Korea , where he spent another 71 days in custody. Now back in the US , he's charged with desertion , assaulting fellow soldiers, disobeying a superior officer, unlawful possession of alcohol, making a false statement, and possession of child pornography. But his mother and stepfather say the charges don't mesh with the "peaceful person" they know, who previously "deplored alcohol."

"A lot of it, I don't believe that it's true. Because that's something that Travis would not do," mother Claudine Gates tells ABC. "He's a good boy." Stepfather Dan Jovanovic says the child pornography charge is "100 percent-plus out of character" for King. The 23-year-old is accused of soliciting lewd images from a Snapchat user in exchange for money in early July, per ABC. But King's parents claim he lost his phone in South Korea, meaning someone else might have accessed his social media accounts. "I still feel inside that something happened to him. And he's the only one who can say what happened," Jovanovic tells ABC, per Axios.

But the couple note King was unable to discuss his time in North Korea when they reunited with him two weeks ago in El Paso, Texas, where he's being held in pre-trial detention. He said he'd signed paperwork that prevented him talking about his detainment and his reasons for entering the country. (North Korea claimed King "harbored ill feeling against inhuman maltreatment and racial discrimination within the US army and was disillusioned about the unequal US society.") "I didn't think that they were doing any harm to him or anything ... but he seemed like he was still withdrawn," says Jovanovic. Gates describes her son as "very drowsy and tired." He also "seemed very worried." Both parents say they're concerned for his mental health. (Read more Travis King stories.)
Lewiston, Maine, and two nearby communities remained locked down Thursday morning as authorities hunted a person of interest in a mass shooting believed to have killed at least 16 people. The Wednesday night shooting is likely the deadliest shooting in the state's history, with some officials putting the death toll at 22, the Portland Press Herald reports. Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck told reporters late Wednesday night that there are "literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine" looking for Robert Card, a firearms instructor assigned to a US Army Reserve training base.

Sauschuck declined to estimate the death toll, calling it a "fluid situation." He said a vehicle of interest was found in Lisbon, a community next to Lewiston, where victims were shot at in two locations. He said residents of Lewiston and Lisbon should shelter in place as the search for Card continues; Maine State Police later expanded the order to include Bowdoin. Sauschuck said the 40-year-old should be considered armed and dangerous. The mayor of Auburn, the city on the other side of the Androscoggin River from Lewiston, told CNN that witnesses to the shootings were of all ages, with at least one teenager injured, and there was fear and panic at a reunification center. "You can train for this but you can never be completely prepared," Jason Levesque said. "It's an all-hands-on-deck situation."

Police said victims were shot at a bar and a bowling alley. One bowler who gave his name as Brandon tells the AP that he heard around 10 shots and initially thought it was a balloon popping. "I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloonhe was holding a weaponI just booked it," he says. Brandon says he ran down the bowling alley and hid in the pin machinery. He was later bused to a center in Auburn. "I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. I've been barefoot for five hours," he says. Androscoggin County Sheriff Eric Samson tells the New York Times that the gunman killed at least seven people at the bowling alley before continuing the rampage at a bar. (Read more Maine stories.)
UPDATE

Oct 30, 2023 4:38 PM CDT

An Ohio woman who police say fatally drugged four men pleaded not guilty to 28 charges at an arraignment Monday and will be held in jail awaiting trial after waiving her chance for bond. Rebecca Auborn's pleas were entered through her attorney, Mark Hunt, the Columbus Dispatch reports. Investigators are still working on the case to determine if there are other victims and if Auborn acted alone, per the Dispatch. A fifth man survived, police said.

Oct 26, 2023 11:25 AM CDT

Police in Columbus, Ohio, say they've nabbed a serial killer who, against the norm, is a woman. Rebecca Auborn, 33, is accused of drugging at least five men in order to rob them, with fatal consequences. Four of those men died from overdoses on Jan. 15, April 1, April 13, and June 17 of this year, according to the indictment filed Wednesday, which charges Auborn with four counts of murder, four counts of involuntary manslaughter, four counts of trafficking in drugs, five counts of aggravated robbery, five counts of felonious assault, five counts of corrupting another with drugs, and one count of tampering with evidence, all felonies, per the Columbus Dispatch. WCMH describes the "attempted overdose" of a fifth man, who survived, on Dec. 13 of last year.
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The satirical Onion echoed the latter point by running the same story it runs after every mass shooting in the US, headlined, 'No Way To Prevent This,' Says Only Nation Where This Regularly Happens." As Newsweek notes, King has long been an advocate for tougher gun laws, particularly in regard to assault-style weapons. In a statement Thursday, President Biden again called for a ban on such weapons, per the AP. "Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence," he said. "That is not normal, and we cannot accept it." With 18 fatalities, the attack in Maine is the deadliest mass killing in the US this year, per the Washington Post. (Survivors are telling their stories.)
In the last two decades, the world has witnessed many advancements, but perhaps none so startlingly rapid or undeniably profound as those that have taken place in the field of artificial intelligence.

Google and other tech giants have played a key role in this progression by spending billions of dollars on machine learning and deep learning projects and redesigning their corporate infrastructure. Thanks to their initiatives and expenditures, these firms have been able to secure industry-leading positions in the AI tool marketplace by leveraging proprietary technologies and dedicated platforms such as TensorFlow, Google Cloud AI, and AutoML. Among other advantages, this has enabled them to better satisfy their customers' needs.

"Yet," observed AI expert Hassan Taher, "as AI continues to flourish, concerns about its regulation and potential risks arise. Jimmy Wales, Wikipedia's founder, likened the idea of regulating AI to 'magical thinking.' Drawing on his extensive interactions with global politicians, Wales contends that there's often a lack of nuanced understanding of technology and its broader implications."

AI industry observer and author Taher has taken a keen interest in the actions and reactions (and occasional willful inactions) on the part of Google and other companies as they relate to AI. Hailing from Beaumont, Texas, Taher started publishing articles about AI for a variety of technical magazines soon after graduating from the University of North Texas. Taher's first book, The Rise of Intelligent Machines, was an enormous success, and it catapulted him to the forefront of the AI industry almost immediately upon its release. Since that time, Taher has written a number of other books about AI, including AI and Ethics: Navigating the Moral Maze and The Future of Work in an AI-Powered World.

Hassan Taher: 'The Risks are Undeniably Vast'

Hassan Taher points out the recent action taken by the United Nations, which committed to exploring the hot topic of AI legislation. These efforts were met with a substantial degree of doubt and hostility when they were first announced. But Taher and other observers believe global citizens owe a debt of gratitude to the secretary general of the U.N., Antonio Guterres. Said Taher, "From AI-powered cyberattacks to AI's potential role in nuclear warfare, the risks are undeniably vast. Guterres' initiative to establish a High-Level Advisory Body for Artificial Intelligence promises to deliver an amalgamation of perspectives, from governmental to academic, to understand the feasible global regulations."

Many people had high hopes that this initial gathering, which took place in July 2023, would, at the very least, result in an enlightening dialogue between the world's most powerful nations on the subject of AI (by many accounts, it did, but it also ignited some heated words between the U.S. and China).

The initiative that's been taken by Guterres to establish the U.N. High-Level Advisory Body for Artificial Intelligence promises to deliver an amalgamation of opinions on what types of global standards for AI could be realistically practicable. These opinions will likely range from those held by different national governments to those promulgated by specific academic institutions.

Nonetheless, this type of activity raises the question of whether or not it's realistically possible to enforce any standards or regulations once they've been established.

Other Authorities Weigh In

A seasoned expert by the name of Pierre Haren, who spent a considerable amount of time working at IBM and was involved with the Watson supercomputing project there, has previously voiced pessimism regarding the subject of AI. On the one hand, Haren has shared his excitement for the generative AI technology that enables complex AI capabilities, such as ChatGPT, which can produce content and draw high-level comparisons.

On the other hand, he's dropped hints that there are major issues not only with AI itself but also with the difficulty of obtaining a universal consensus on how it should be regulated.

Some AI enthusiasts, such as Robert Opp - the chief digital officer of the U.N. Development Programme - have demonstrated their support for the idea that the International Civil Aviation Organization could serve as a model for a regulatory framework governing AI. The ICAO is an agency that monitors and ensures the smooth and secure functioning of the global civil aviation system. In spite of the fact that Opp recognizes the unrivaled advantages that AI has in some fields - such as satellite imaging for agricultural purposes - he nevertheless has a keen awareness of the potential drawbacks of the technology, and he's underscored the need for implementing robust AI controls by an international body.

By contrast, Wales presents a distinctly alternative viewpoint. In relation to discussions regarding AI regulation, he warns against placing an unhealthy amount of trust in colossal technology enterprises such as Google. Wales believes that trying to administrate such a massive ecosystem could be a hopeless endeavor analogous to that of the Greek mythical figure Sisyphus due to the decentralized nature of AI development, which sees an endless number of developers embracing open-source AI software.

Wales points out that the breadth of AI spans a domain that's enormous in scope, particularly wide-ranging in makeup, and exceptionally difficult to navigate. Even if tech giants like Google are helping to pave the way, the individuals who are really contributing to the AI mosaic are the larger community of software developers, business owners, and ordinary everyday users.

As Hassan Taher said, "The conversation on AI regulation isn't merely about curbing potential threats but ensuring we harness its immense potential without stifling innovation. Whether through a U.N.-led initiative or industry self-regulation, the journey to effective AI governance promises to be intricate and multifaceted." The road to successful governance of AI will likely be difficult and fraught with complexity, regardless of whether it's achieved via an effort headed by the U.N. (or another international body) or by self-regulation by private enterprises.
The largest Ukrainian mobile operator Kyivstar intends to invest up to $10 million in creating an ecosystem of services for patients in the field of health based on the Helsi company (Helsi Ukraine LLC).

"Our focus is on the development of digital services based on the telecom service that we provide to clients. A striking example is the investment in Helsi. We invested in a small company, which at the first stage was an information system for medical institutions and patients. What are we doing now? We are investing to build on this connection to build an ecosystem of patient health services. Investments in Helsi are up to $10 million," President of Kyivstar Oleksandr Komarov said.

He said that the financing will be provided as part of a total investment of about $600 million from the parent company VEON.

According to Komarov, the company is actively developing telemedicine services, which have already been used by more than 1.1 million people in the first half of 2023. In the near future, it is planned to launch functionality with which patients will be able to track test results in the application and will be able to sign up for seasonal vaccination.

As reported, Kyivstar, after purchasing a controlling stake in Helsi (Helsi Ukraine LLC) in August 2022, invested $3 million in the company's development.

Helsi is a medical information system and a leading digital provider in the healthcare sector, known as a provider of SaaS medical information system solutions for 1,300 public and private clinics. Kyivstar acquired 69.99% in August last year for UAH 555.74 million.

The company's employee count has nearly doubled to 240 in the past year. In the second quarter of 2023, Helsi increased the number of registered users to 25.4 million patients, compared to 25 million in the previous quarter.

As of mid-October 2023, the number of active unique users in the application increased to 1.1 million, and including the web version  to more than 2 million Ukrainians, which is equal to pre-war figures.

Since the beginning of the year, new services have been introduced in Helsi: emergency medical consultations, chat with a doctor and exchange of medical documents online, search for doctors and medical institutions nearby, a vaccination calendar, and a service for obtaining medical certificates.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

KPMG in Bahrain hosted a seminar focusing on The changing Tax landscape in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the region. With 200+ business leaders and finance professionals attending the session, the seminar provided for professional networking and an in-depth discussion on key aspects of the upcoming developments in tax.

The event hosted by Mubeen Khadir, KPMG Tax Partner based in Bahrain, featured a lineup of speakers and subject matter experts (SMEs) including  Antonio Tapia, Director, Transfer Pricing; Anand Krishnan, Director and BEPS SME and Shashank Chandak, Associate Director and e-invoicing SME.

Mubeen Khadir, Partner and Head of Tax and Corporate Services, at KPMG in Bahrain provided an overview of CIT and other developments across the GCC region.

Shashank Chandak, Associate Director, Tax & Corporate Services, KPMG in Bahrain, shared details on the Saudi Arabian E-invoicing model, the challenges they faced and how Bahrain businesses can better prepare themselves and highlighted some of the next steps.
AFP | Geneva

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

The Gaza Strip has lived through 16 years of de-development, the United Nations said yesterday, adding that the economic consequences of the Israel-Hamas war were impossible to determine.

Gaza has experienced 16 years of de-development and suppressed human potential and the right to development, the UNs UNCTAD trade and development agency said in an annual report on the Palestinian economy. While the report focused on 2022, during a press conference UNCTAD officials could not ignore the current conflict.

The economic consequences of the current and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza are impossible to determine, Richard Kozul-Wright, the director of UNCTADs globalisation and development strategies division, told a press conference. What the report does document is the profound economic challenges facing a community under occupation, which in the case of Gaza is compounded by an economic blockade which began in 2007, along with intermittent military operations.

The report on the state of the Palestinian economy in 2022 said the Gazan economy had been hollowed out, with 80% of the enclaves population dependent on international aid. With heightened political tensions and a long-stalled peace process, 2022 was one of the worst years for Palestinians in recent history, the report said. It said the Palestinian economy had also been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Even though the Palestinian GDP grew by 3.9% in 2022, per capita real GDP was still 8.6% below its 2019 pre-pandemic level. In Gaza, real GDP per capita was 11.7% below the 2019 level and close to its lowest level since 1994, the report said.

Palestinian GDP per capita is currently at just eight% of that of Israel, the report added. UNCTAD said that unemployment was at 45% in the Gaza Strip and 13% in the West Bank, with women and young people affected the most.

The vicious circle of destruction and partial reconstruction needs to be broken by negotiating a peaceful solution, based on international law, and relevant UN and Security Council resolutions, to end hostilities, and by increasing donor support for the recovery of the war-torn economy, the report concluded.

Germany calls for aid delivery

The German government on Wednesday called for aid delivery intervals into Gaza but argued that a full ceasefire would not be appropriate in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

In the current situation, trying to act as though we must make peace or have a ceasefire does not do justice to the facts, government spokesman Steffen Hebestreit told a regular press briefing.

Erdogan says cancelling plans to visit Israel

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday he was cancelling plans to visit Israel because of its inhumane war against Hamas militants in Gaza.

We had a project to go to Israel, but it was cancelled, we will not go, Erdogan told ruling party lawmakers in parliament, adding that he viewed Hamas as liberators fighting for their own land.
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - Hudson's Bay and Student Price Card (SPC) are thrilled to launch a new partnership, offering enhanced benefits and exclusive offers to SPC's student members. This collaboration marks the first time SPC has linked its program to a retail loyalty currency, and promises to be a game-changer for the Canadian student shopping experience.

"The partnership between Hudson's Bay and SPC underscores the commitment of both organizations to provide unparalleled value to the next generation of shoppers," says Kevin Parry, SVP of Marketing at Hudson's Bay. "With exclusive rewards and monthly discounts, the Gen Z market will find their shopping experience at Hudson's Bay and TheBay.com more enticing and budget-friendly than ever before."

SPC, voted the top Coalition Loyalty Program by Bond Brand Loyalty Survey & Report, connects students aged 14 to 24 with brands that cater to their unique desires and interests.

"Our partnership with Hudson's Bay gives students the opportunity to save money on top brands," says Lorena Monetti, Director of Marketing, SPC. "As costs continue to rise, students need a seamless way to stretch their budgets. Our collaboration with Hudson's Bay Rewards achieves exactly that, providing an avenue for students to shop smart and accumulate points that can turn into valuable savings."

SPC members will experience a host of exciting benefits from Hudson's Bay, including:

15% Back In Points Value on Eligible Purchases

SPC members can link their SPC membership and Hudson's Bay Rewards account, making them eligible to receive 15% of the value of their Hudson's Bay purchases back in Hudson's Bay Rewards points, whether shopping in store or online. This is equivalent to 30 times the Hudson's Bay Rewards base points, with 30 points awarded for every eligible, pre-tax dollar spent. These points can then be redeemed to enjoy substantial savings on future purchases, with 1,000 points equating to $5 in free merchandise.

Bay Rewards account, making them eligible to receive 15% of the value of their Bay purchases back in Bay Rewards points, whether shopping in store or online. This is equivalent to 30 times the Bay Rewards base points, with 30 points awarded for every eligible, pre-tax dollar spent. These points can then be redeemed to enjoy substantial savings on future purchases, with 1,000 points equating to in free merchandise. Members can link their SPC and Hudson's Bay Rewards accounts by signing into their SPC account at spccard.ca/hudsonsbay and submitting their Hudson's Bay Rewards number.

Monthly In-Store Discount Offers

Hudson's Bay will extend exclusive in-store discount offers to SPC members each month, giving students the perfect opportunity to maximize their budget while indulging in the latest fashion trends and much more.

Bay will extend exclusive discount offers to SPC members each month, giving students the perfect opportunity to maximize their budget while indulging in the latest fashion trends and much more. This October , SPC members will receive a 10% discount on eligible regular and sale-priced apparel, footwear, intimates, and accessories with this offer stacking on top of the incredible Bay Days prices (Bay Days is on now until the 29th).

, SPC members will receive a 10% discount on eligible regular and sale-priced apparel, footwear, intimates, and accessories with this offer stacking on top of the incredible Bay Days prices (Bay Days is on now until the 29th). SPC members need only to present proof of their SPC membership and a valid student ID to a Hudson's Bay associate when making a qualifying purchase to enjoy these special discounts.

For more information on the Hudson's Bay and SPC partnership and the benefits offered to SPC members, please visit www.spccard.ca/hudsonsbay .

ABOUT HUDSON'S BAY

Hudson's Bay helps Canadians live their best style of life. Operating thebay.com featuring Marketplace, one of the largest premium life & style platforms in Canada, with a seamless connection to a network of 83 from coast to coast, Hudson's Bay has established a reputation for quality and style through an unrivalled assortment of products and categories including fashion, home, beauty, food concepts and more. Follow us on our social media channels: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter , TikTok .

Hudson's Bay operates under the HBC brand portfolio. Founded in 1670, HBC is North America's oldest company. The signature stripes are a registered trademark of HBC.

ABOUT STUDENT PRICE CARD

Student Price Card provides Canadian students discounts up to 25% off on over 450+ brands including Adidas, Taco Bell, American Eagle, H&M, Samsung, Shein, Burger King, Pizza Pizza and many more. Their mission is to teach students how to be more financially responsible while also saving them money at the same time! SPC is a membership made for all student types including high school, college and university, trade skills colleges and more.

https://www.spccard.ca/

SOURCE The Bay

For further information: Tiffany Bourre, VP | Corp Comms, PR, Social, Events and Heritage, Hudson's Bay and Zellers, [email protected]; Lorena Monetti, Director of Marketing, Student Price Card, [email protected]
Israel has delayed an expected invasion of Gaza for now so that the United States can rush missile defences to the region to protect U.S. troops there, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing U.S. and Israeli officials.

The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) is a missile system that intercepts incoming ballistic missiles in their terminal phase. THAAD is designed to intercept targets both inside and outside the atmosphere. It can intercept missiles at altitudes of 40-150 km and ranges of up to 200 km. THAAD is highly effective, with a 100% intercept success rate in flight tests. It can mitigate the potential effects of enemy intermediate- and short-range ballistic missiles, even hypersonic versions. THAADs non-explosive, hit-to-kill kinetic impact minimizes risk of detonation. The estimated cost of a THAAD system is $1.135 billion.

According to U.S. Defense Officials, the Army is currently Scrambling to Deploy at least 12 Air Defense Systems to the multiple Countries across the Middle East before the Israeli Invasion of the Gaza Strip is set to soon begin. The Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Battery for use against Ballistic Missiles is currently on its way to Saudi Arabia from Fort Bliss, Texas, while at least 11 MIM-104 Patriot Surface-to-Air Missile Systems from both Fort Liberty, North Carolina and Fort Sill, Oklahoma are heading to Locations in Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

The Pentagon is deploying two carrier strike groups, eleven Burke-class destroyers, a number of Ticonderoga-class cruisers, amphibious assault ships, THAAD and Patriot missile defense systems, multiple squadrons of fighter jets, strategic bombers, and undisclosed assets to the pic.twitter.com/7j9aIPk9Zf  KanekoaTheGreat (@KanekoaTheGreat) October 25, 2023

Update: US and NATO moving troops quickly to Greece, Cyprus, and across the Middle East! Some secretly, others publicly!! Largest deployment of troops since the 2003 Invasion of Iraq!! pic.twitter.com/lhA2NXo95s  US Civil Defense News (@CaptCoronado) October 25, 2023
Tesla Model 3 Highland deliveries have officially started in China today. Tesla Giga Shanghai is operating at full capacity, with a current Model 3 production rate of 1,200 units per day, most of which are exported to Europe.

Model 3 Highland deliveries have officially started in China today. Every customer that gets this vehicle will experience the future & convince others why a Tesla is the best vehicle on earth, pushing the mission to accelerate the worlds transition to sustainable energy.  pic.twitter.com/sfLpdEjrCc  Teslaconomics (@Teslaconomics) October 26, 2023

Giga Shanghai is operating at full capacity, with a current Model 3 production rate of 1,200 units per day, most of which are exported to Europe. $TSLA  Tesla China Analyst (@teslashanghai) October 26, 2023

1200 per day would be 108,000 per quarter and 36,000 per month.

This would mean Tesla could produce and sell more new Model 3s in September than most of the prior months in China. There would be no monthly drop off in China production and sales because of the new Model 3 ramping. It would mean that new Tesla Model 3 Highland could sell 36,000 per month or more, which would be an increase of 30k-60k per quarter over most of the prior quarters. The average selling price and margin would also be substantially higher.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. On October 26, at about 07:00 (GMT+4), Elchin Valiyev, a resident of the Talysh village, Terter district, has stepped on an anti-personnel mine, the Interior Ministry of Azerbaijan told Trend.

Valiyev was immediately taken to the hospital. As a result of his injuries, one of his arms was amputated.

The fact is under investigation.
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BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Visa will support women entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan in the coming years, Nurlan Hajiyev, senior director, regional manager of Visa in Azerbaijan, said at the Fintex forum, Trend reports.

"Fintech is the focus of our attention. Visa makes global investments in fintech. We offer competitions among fintech companies every year. The goal is to assist fintech companies by identifying the most sophisticated and attractive fintech companies for future investment. Any fintech company is welcome to participate. I would love for Azerbaijani fintech companies to participate and be the first," Nurlan Hajiyev said.

More than 600 women entrepreneurs participated in the global initiative to support women entrepreneurs She's Next Empowered by Visa in 2022.

Women entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan and the entire region of Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Caucasus are gradually switching to e-commerce and using convenient and reliable digital payments.

The main motivation of Azerbaijani women entrepreneurs to start a business is to "increase income" (41 percent) and "fulfill a dream" (24 percent).

The most difficult aspect of beginning and running a firm is acquiring finance (45 percent), while 23 percent of female entrepreneurs face intense competition. At the same time, some female entrepreneurs are anxious that they "will not be able to pay enough attention to family" (27 percent) or "will fail" (26 percent) if they start a business. Thus, the top three most popular skills in Azerbaijan are as follows: digital marketing and social networking (49 percent), techniques for securing additional finance (34 percent), and e-commerce (26 percent).
UN refugee agency says no fewer than 114 million people worldwide have been forced to flee their homes by the end of September, due to conflict, persecution, and human rights violations.





War in Ukraine and conflicts in Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Myanmar, drought, floods, and insecurity in Somalia, as well as a prolonged humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan have been the main drivers of the alarming new total.





Filippo Grandi, UN High Commissioner for Refugees, expressed his concern, stating that globally, far too many conflicts are proliferating or escalating, shattering innocent lives and uprooting people.





The international communitys inability to solve conflicts or prevent new ones is driving displacement and misery.





We must look within, work together to end conflicts, and allow refugees and other displaced people to return home or restart their lives, he said in a statement.





As of June, the number of forcibly displaced individuals worldwide stood at 110 million, marking an increase of 1.6 million from the end of 2022.





Moreover, between June and the end of September, an additional four million were estimated to have been forcibly displaced, bringing the total to 114 million.





UNHCRs report does not encompass the consequences of the Israel-Palestine conflict that ignited on October 7, as it fell beyond the reports scope.





The report also revealed that low and middle-income countries bore the burden of hosting three-quarters of those in need of international





In spite the overwhelming challenges, High Commissioner Grandi remained resolute.





As we watch events unfold in Gaza, Sudan, and beyond, the prospect of peace and solutions for refugees and other displaced populations might feel distant.





But we cannot give up. With our partners, we will keep pushing for  and finding  solutions for refugees, he said.





This reports release coincides with the upcoming second Global Refugee Forum, scheduled from Dec. 13 to 15 in Geneva.





The largest forum of its kind  focusing on refugees and forcibly displaced people  brings together governments, refugees, local authorities, international organisations, civil society, and the private sector.
The Supreme Court on Thursday held that it lacked jurisdiction to admit fresh evidence in the appeal of the judgment of the presidential election petition tribunal.

The suit marked SC/2023 CA/PEPC/05/2023 was filed with Atiku and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the Appellants while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) are the Respondents.

The Appellants in the Notice of Appeal said they were dissatisfied with the decision more particularly stated in paragraph 2 herein, contained in the consolidated judgment of the Court of Appeal (sitting as the Presidential Election Petition Court), coram:- Haruna Simon Tsammani, JCA, Stephen Jonah Adah, JCA, Misitura Omodere Bolaji-Yusuff, JCA, Boloukuroma Moses Ugo, JCA, and Abba Bello Mohammed, JCA delivered 6th September 2023 in Petition No. CA/PEPC/05/2023 between Abubakar Atiku & Anor vs Independent National Electoral Commission & others.

Particularly contained from pages 487 to 752 of the consolidated judgment (as well as the concurring contributions and rulings thereto) doth hereby appeal to the Supreme Court upon the grounds set out in paragraph 3 and will at the hearing of the appeal seek the reliefs set out in paragraph 4.

The Presidential Election Petition Court had dismissed the petition filed by the PDP and Atiku challenging the election of President Bola Tinubu.

The tribunal also dismissed the petition of Peter Obi of the Labour Party, challenging Tinubus election, describing it as unmeritorious.




In a bid to end the political crisis that has plagued Ondo State in recent months, the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Thursday apologised to his boss, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.





While expressing regret over the turn of events in the state, Aiyedatiwa disclosed that the reports coming out of the state in the past weeks have been discomforting.





Aiyedatiwa, who spoke during an interactive session with journalists in the state, emphasized his loyalty to Akeredolu and his unwavering commitment to the development and progress of the state.





The deputy governor further stressed the need to restore peace and tranquility to the Sunshine State, as he stressed that tensions must be doused.





Also, Aiyedatiwa applauded Akeredolu for his intervention and efforts in persuading the members of the Ondo State House of Assembly to embrace a political solution proposed by ruling the All Progressives Congress, APC.





He refuted all the allegations circulating against him, which he claimed were propagated by individuals desperate to remove him from office ahead of governorship election in 2024.





Aiyedatiwa also stated that he has no affiliation with any groups or individuals organising protests or demanding the governors resignation, emphasizing that he has never authorised anyone to initiate such campaigns.





Our beloved state has witnessed a series of events triggered by the health challenges faced by Mr Governor, which gave rise to misunderstandings, misconceptions, assumptions, and insinuations, and exploited by political contenders preparing for the upcoming 2024 gubernatorial election.





It is in reference to the above that I hereby tender my unreserved apologies to Mr Governor and the good people of Ondo State, and I assure that, together, we will both complete this journey with honour, divine guidance and in good health by the grace of God.
The Supreme Court has dismissed the application by Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to admit fresh evidence in his appeal against President Bola Tinubu for lack of jurisdiction.

The apex court described Atikus petition as a friendly joke, insisting that it could not be granted.

According to the apex court, the case was filed out of time and couldnt prove cause of forgery.

Recall that Atiku had sought the leave of the apex court to present fresh evidence of forgery against Tinubu.

He pleaded with the court to look into the matter because of its constitutional and democratic implications.

The fresh evidence Atiku sought to tender was the academic records of Tinubu, which were handed over to him by the Chicago State University (CSU) on October 2.

The former Vice President had informed the court that the fresh evidence was crucial to his appeal, adding that it has inherent jurisdiction to entertain and decide on the application.

However, the Supreme Court said it has no jurisdiction to entertain the fresh evidence as the time limit allowed by the constitution has elapsed.

At the time of filing this report, the judgment was still ongoing.




President Bola Tinubu has directed the Minister of Health, Ali Pate, to de-emphasise speaking about the health sectors challenges and rather engage with development partners to birth new reforms that would improve the health and well-being of Nigerians.

Tinubu bared his mind when he had an audience with the minister at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Wednesday, specifically directing Pate to pursue a very ambitious sector-wide programme that would improve population health outcomes, using the basic healthcare provision fund as a basis for reviving the primary health care system.

Tinubu also told Pate to explore ways of enhancing seamless working relationships between state governments, community leaders, and traditional leaders to ensure that Nigerians get better quality services to deal with the issues that bother them, whether its malaria, immunisation, maternal and child health, or reproductive health, among others.

Pate, who met with the President in the company of Prof Seniat Fisseha, a development partner under the auspices of the Susan-Buff Foundation, assured that going forward, plans are underway to design a social action fund to reach communities.

He said they would work to get the trust of the community dwellers, through which they would be empowered and supported to solve issues that are very simple but afflicting many of the people at the grassroots level.

While having an audience with the President, we discussed some important issues regarding Nigerians health and social well-being. As we all know, the President is very committed and has directed that we do all we can to improve the health and well-being of all Nigerians as part of his renewed hope agenda.

Accordingly, in recent days, he has approved three important steps for us to move forward and has asked us to talk less and do more. And in that spirit, he, in fact, has asked us to pursue a very ambitious sector-wide programme to improve population health outcomes, using the basic healthcare provision fund as a basis for reviving our primary healthcare system, working with state governments and community leaders, traditional leaders to ensure that Nigerians get better quality services to deal with the issues that bother them, whether its malaria, whether its immunisation, maternal and child health, reproductive healththose are elements that have a direct bearing on the health and well-being of Nigerians, with the state governments and with our development partners. 

So that sector-wide programme is underway, and our visitor today is committed to working with us to work with countries systems, not set up parallel systems. And were very glad that the Susan-Buffett Foundation is willing to partner with the Government of Nigeria to advance the health and well-being of all, especially our adolescent girls and women.

The second item is to unlock the value chain in the healthcare space. Mr President has also approved a presidential initiative to unlock the healthcare value chain that will help drive the medical industrialisation agenda with clear targets.

It will require the public and private sectors to work hand in hand. Government does what it needs to do to provide the enabling environment and the private sector getting his act together to ensure that we produce the things critical for Nigerias health and well-being while creating economic value and creating jobs, Pate told State House correspondents. 
The immediate-past Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdurasheed Bawa, has been released five months after detention.

It was gathered that the former anti-corruption czar was released on Wednesday night.

Recall that Bawa was arrested by the Department of State Service (DSS) on June 14, 2023, hours after his suspension from office as EFCC Chairman by President Bola Tinubu over alleged abuse of office.

Since his arrest and detention, the secret police didnt formally prefer any charge against him or say his specific offence.

Meanwhile, on October 12, Tinubu appointed Olanipekun Olukoyede as the EFCC Chairman.

The Senate confirmed Olukoyedes appointment on October 18, 2023.




An Enugu High Court has ordered the Southeast governors to pay Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, N8 billion as compensation.





Justice A.O. Onovo ruled that the sum was compensation for infringing on Kanus fundamental human rights.





The judge gave the order while passing judgement on Kanus appeal against IPOBs proscription.





Kanu, through his Special Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, had dragged the Southeast governors and the Federal Government before the Enugu High Court over IPOBs proscription and violation of his fundamental rights in 2017.





The presiding judge ordered the Southeast governor to apologize to Kanu and publish their apology in three national dailies.





This was disclosed in a statement by Ejimakor tagged: Mazi Nnamdi Kanu/IPOB wins landmark victory against proscription of IPOB.





The statement reads: Today, I led a team of lawyers to a landmark victory before the High Court of Enugu State in SUIT NO: E/20/2023 filed in January 2023 against the Southeast Governors Forum and the FG (Respondents) for their collective executive actions (in 2017) that led to the proscription of IPOB and declaring it a terrorist group in contravention of Section 42 of the Constitution which prohibits discrimination on the basis of ethnicity.





In a well-considered judgment that lasted for over three hours, the High Court (coram Justice A.O. Onovo) granted the following Reliefs.





Declared that the practical application of the Terrorism Prevention Act and the executive or administrative action of the Respondents (Southeast Governors Forum and the Federal Government) which directly led to the proscription of IPOB and its listing as a terrorist group, said IPOB being comprised of citizens of Nigeria of the Igbo and other Eastern Nigerian ethnic groups, professing the political opinion of self determination and the consequent arrest, detention and prosecution of the Applicant (MAZI NNAMDI KANU) as a member/leader of said IPOB is illegal, unlawful, unconstitutional and amounts to infringement of the Applicants fundamental right not to be subjected to any disabilities or restrictions on the basis of his ethnicity as enshrined and guaranteed under Section 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and his fundamental rights as enshrined under Articles 2,3,19 &20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Enforcement and Ratification) Act.





Declared that self determination is not a crime and thus cannot be used as a basis to arrest, detain and prosecute the Applicant, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.





Ordered the Respondents, jointly or severally, to issue official Letter(s) of Apology to the Applicant (Mazi Nnamdi Kanu) for the infringement of his said fundamental rights; and publication of said Letter(s) of Apology in three (3) national dailies.





Ordered the Respondents to, jointly or severally, pay the sum of N8,000,000,000.00 (Eight Billion Naira) to the Applicant (Mazi Nnamdi Kanu), being monetary damages claimed by the Applicant against the Respondents jointly and severally for the physical, mental, emotional, psychological, property and other damages suffered by the Applicant as a result of the infringements of his fundamental rights by the Respondents.
President Bola Tinubu says the judiciary demonstrated a high degree of professionalism in the challenge of his election.

Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last general election, and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP), had challenged the outcome of the February 25 poll and Tinubus affirmation as winner by the petitions tribunal.

In its ruling, the supreme court dismissed the pleas of the petitioners and upheld Tinubus election.

In a unanimous verdict, the court held that the appeals filed by Abubakar and Obi lacked merit and were frivolous.





Reacting to the verdict of the apex court, Tinubu said the judgment has laid the agitating discourse over who truly won the 2023 presidential election to rest.

I want to reiterate that my faith in our nations judiciary has never been shaken, not even for a moment, because I know that our hallowed courts of law will not fail to administer justice to all Nigerians in all matters and at all times, the president said in a statement.

Despite the fusillade of pressure and attempts at intimidation by some political actors, the judiciary demonstrated its unequivocal commitment to upholding the rule of law for the upliftment and defence of humanity.

It was affirmed once more today, that my party, the governing All Progressives Congress, had freely and fairly won the popular mandate of Nigerians, which has since given rise to my leadership of this great nation at a tumultuous period of unprecedented reforms in our history as a nation.

Tinubu said the judgment has re-energised him in his bid to deliver good governance to Nigerians.

The victory of today has further energised and strengthened my commitment to continue to serve all Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes, and faiths, with honour and total respect for the diverse opinions and uniting values of our citizens, he said.

Our Renewed Hope agenda for a greater and prosperous Nigeria has further gained momentum and I will continue to work from morning to night, every single day, to build a country that meets our collective yearnings and aspirations.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan is a highly attractive country in terms of financial market, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Fintech Association of Georgia David Kikvidze told reporters, Trend reports.

He said that the Fintech Association can collaborate with Azerbaijan both in the banking system and in the field of financial technologies.

"In recent years, I have been following the Azerbaijani financial market, and I can confidently say that there is successful development in the financial and banking system here. Georgia has fintech companies interested in entering the Azerbaijani market. Azerbaijan will also be interested in entering the Georgian market because Georgia has a stable financial market and extensive opportunities," he explained.

Baku Fintech Forum 2023 is the first fintech forum of a regional nature, in which, along with financial institutions operating in the country, international financial institutions are involved.

The organization of the Baku Forum, which aroused wide interest among financial market participants, is important from the point of view of forming an effective platform that will determine further directions for the development of the Fintech ecosystem.

Presentations and an exchange of views were held at the forum on topics such as the present and future of the Fintech ecosystem, legislative reforms for the development of the ecosystem, investment opportunities and their future, and the activities of startups in the Fintech ecosystem.

The agenda of the forum also includes digital banking and opportunities for innovation in this area, the latest development trends in the field of digital banking.




The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday, described the judgement of the Supreme Court panel that affirmed President Bola Tinubus victory as a sound one that would further deepen the countrys electoral laws and judicial jurisprudence.





In a statement by his spokesperson, Ismail Omipidan, the minister said the judgement had finally settled the legal battle over the 2023 presidential election, saying lovers of democracy must commend the resilience of the judiciary in deepening the countrys democracy through its sound judgments.





It read partly, On behalf of the APC family in Osun, I congratulate our president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the vice president, Senator Kashim Shettima, on their victory at the Supreme Court.





Todays judgement has put to an end the needless bickering, distractions and litigation that greeted the 2023 presidential election. It is my hope that the opposition will team up with our president to move Nigeria forward in the overall interest of the country.





Similarly, Oluwo of Iwo in Osun State, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, has also congratulated the President, Bola Tinubu, on his victory at the Supreme Court, which affirmed his victory in the 2023 presidential election.





Oba Akanbi, in a congratulatory message signed by his press secretary, Alli Ibraheem, appealed to politicians to prioritize the interest of Nigeria, noting that the country is greater than any individual.





The royal father also urged litigants in the matter to cooperate with Tinubu in moving the country forward.
Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, has declared that the fight has just begun following the Supreme Court judgement that upheld President Bola Tinubus election in the February 25 presidential election.

The judgement followed appeals filed against Tinubus election by Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, LP.

Atiku and Obi approached the apex court to appeal the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal which dismissed their petitions against Tinubu.

The fight for a Good Society has only now started and we know that nothing can defeat a People who have had enough of the invasive Cancer of Corruption and Criminality, Oby Ezekwesili wrote on X.

Read the story of the 70s Hong Kong to learn that in the quest for a Good Society, it is never over until a people say it is over.




The Presidency has urged the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, to congratulate President Bola Tinubu over his victory in the February 25 presidential election.





Tinubus Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the remark in response to Atikus defeat at the Supreme Court.





Posting on X, Onanuga stressed that Atikus quest to displace Tinubu and emerge Nigerias President has failed.





Supreme Court has spoken: Atikus so-called new evidence runs foul of the Electoral Act and the Constitution. Its all over for the PDP presidential candidate. The Waziri should write his long-delayed congratulatory message to his old friend.





NigerianEye reported that the Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed Atikus appeal challenging Tinubus victory.





The seven-man panel dismissed the appeal for lacking in merit after it resolved all seven issues raised for determination in favour of the respondents.





Justice John Okoro who read the lead judgment subsequently affirmed the judgment of the presidential election tribunal which, on September 6, affirmed Tinubus election as President.





On the whole there is no merit in this appeal and it is hereby dismissed.





The judgment of the court below is hereby affirmed, Okoro held.





The apex court also declined to accept fresh evidence from Atiku to prove that Tinubu forged the academic certificate he submitted to INEC for the 2023 presidential election.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has urged the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, to call and congratulate President Bola Tinubu over his victory in the last election.

Reacting to the Supreme Court judgement, Keyamo said Atiku and Obi pursued their election petition with unnecessary venoms and hatred.

Keyamo stressed that sentiments have no place in judicial proceedings and deliberations.

Posting on X, Keyamo said the judgement differentiated between law and emotion.

According to Keyamo: By the judgment of the Supreme Court today, the laymen prowling all over the social media can now clearly see that there is a wide chasm between emotions and law.

This were Election Petitions pursued with unnecessary venom and hatred by most of those involved. Today, they have learnt a bitter lesson that such venom, hatred and sentiment have no place in judicial proceedings and deliberations. Their journey has come to a grinding end.

We had consistently made the same points to the opposition, but they kept giving their supporters false hopes and goading them in the wrong direction. Unfortunately for them, all the vituperations poured out against the judiciary actually cut no ice with it. Our Justices are always firm, courageous and cerebral. Kudos to them.

What is now left is nation-building. The other Presidential candidates must now call President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and congratulate him as true patriots. We as patriotic citizens must also now close ranks to help steer our country in the right direction. I wish all of us well.




President Bola Tinubu will present the 2024 budget to the National Assembly in the next two weeks.

The President will also submit the supplementary budget for 2023 to the National Assembly for consideration.

The Chairman, the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Adeola, who made this known during the inaugural meeting of the committee stated that the National Assembly would ensure that the 2024 budget is passed before December 31, 2024.

Senator Adeola said, I know we have it on good authority that the supplementary budget would be sent by the Executive in the next couple of hours to the National Assembly.

Also in about a week or two weeks later, the President will be presenting the 2024 Appropriation bill to the National Assembly and as a result of this I find it very important to call for an inaugural meeting so that we can know ourselves.

Talking about the delayed presentation of the budget by the President to the National Assembly, the lawmaker said the change in government was a significant factor that should be considered.

Adeola said, I want you to take cognizance of the change of government on May 29.

There is a teething problem because there is a change of government. The new administration has a new mantra that encapsulates its vision and there must be challenges.

Adeola, however, promised that irrespective of the lateness in the submission of the 2024 budget, it would do a thorough job.

The chairman of the Appropriation Committee noted, We will do a thorough job on the budget. Our job is to verify the budget to meet the expectations of the people. We will look into it thoroughly.

We are expecting the MTEF next week and immediately we receive the document, the Committee on Finance will go into work and look into it.

He added, The Finance Minister and the Minister of Budget and Planning are working round the clock.

I assure you that we wont break the tradition, we will have the budget as at when due. We will keep to the tradition of the January to December budget cycle.

Significantly, Senator Adeola stated that he doesnt believe that a thing such as budget padding exists.

He said, A budget has to do with the nomination of projects to the budget document that will meet the yearnings and the needs of the people, I would not regard that as padding.

It is still part of a government document, we will look into and it has an expectation. The budget has an estimate but implementation is another thing.

So I dont believe in budget padding, it never exists in my dairy.

Olamilekan also noted that the National Assembly will not allow a budget that is inflated by the cost of governance as against driving infrastructure.

He said, The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Wale Edun, and his colleague the minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu will appear before this committee to brief us on the action plan on the economy, the budgeting process and how the National Assembly and the executive will be working together in the next couple of years.

Also, it would not be business as usual, we wont support a government where 72% of the budget will be spent on the cost of running the government and only 28 percent will now be spent on driving the infrastructure.

We will rather prefer a budget that 55 to 60% is spent on driving infrastructure to the people and 40% is spent on the budget.
As the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day beckons, President Bola Tinubu has pledged to commit at least N18 billion to cover Group Life Assurance benefits to soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The fund would also incorporate other expenses and entitlements for families of fallen heroes of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The President made the pledge on Wednesday while launching the Emblem Appeal Fund for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the State House, Abuja.

Tinubu also assured of his administrations continued support to the nations Armed Forces by repositioning the Army.

We owe a debt of gratitude to our gallant troops, who have risen to the challenge of securing this great nation.

 In appreciation of the sacrifices of the men and women of our Armed Forces and to underscore this governments commitment to their welfare, I have approved the sum of N18 billion for the payment of the Group Life Assurance benefits and other entitlements to the families of service members who lost their lives in line of duty.
The leadership of the Labour Party has accused the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, of having an alliance with the Lamidi Apapa faction to stir a crisis in the party.

The development is coming barely one week after two legal counsels claiming to be representing the Independent National Electoral Commission turned up at the appellate court in Lagos.

INEC had on February 28 declared LP candidate Amobi Ogah, as the winner of the Isiukwuato Umunneochi Federal Constituency election with 11,769 votes as against the 8,752 votes bagged by Onyejeocha.

A National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Umuahia, Abia State capital, however, nullified the election of the LP candidate.

Delivering judgment in the petition tagged EPT/AB/HR/8/2023 in Umuahia, a three-member panel of the tribunal ruled that Ogah did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

Ogah argued that the acceptance of the ministerial appointment of Onyejeocha as minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was a clear sign that she had abandoned her petition.

But the tribunal, in its ruling, dismissed the submission of the lawmaker.

Confusion, however, arose on Thursday when two legal counsels showed up, each holding a letter of authority to speak on behalf of INEC, after the case came up for hearing in Lagos, forcing the hearing to be adjourned.

Addressing journalists on Wednesday at the party secretariat in Abuja, LP National Youth Leader, Kennedy Ahanotu, claimed they had intelligence that the minister and the LP splinter group were behind the drama.

Ahanotu, who was flanked at the conference by the National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, and National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, further alleged they had no doubt she was working in league with some expelled members of the party.

He said, The leadership of the Labour Party wishes to inform Nigerians on yet an unholy alliance between the Minister of State for Labour, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, and some expelled members of our party led by Chief Lamidi Apapa, whose purpose is to ensure that crisis is sustained perpetually in our party.

One may begin to wonder what connects the minister and the Labour Party that she will go to the length of instigating and funding crisis within the party. We are, however, aware that the former lawmaker is fighting a personal and proxy war against the party.

Onyejeocha has been in the national assembly since 2007 until the February 25 general election when she was defeated by Amobi Ogah by a very wide margin. Her loss to Amobi Ogah was a pill too hard to swallow; hence, she has vowed to use all her connections to ensure that the election declared by INEC is upturned in her favour.

Explaining what led to the confusion that saw two counsels show up at the appellate court last week, Ahanotu stated that they suspected foul play when INEC failed to deliver the letter it wrote to the firm of the first lawyer, Yunus Ustaz Usman (SAN) to withdraw from the case.

The member of the LP National Working Committee also noted that though the legal firm of J. O. Asoluka was meant to take over officially, the letter was allegedly delayed deliberately to frustrate Ogars appeal case.

The desperation by lawyers from the firm of Yunus Ustaz Usman to insist on representing INEC, even when the firm had already written to INEC withdrawing its services, stoked our curiosity. But the embarrassed Usman has completely distanced himself from the action.

On further investigation, we realised that INEC failed to release this letter written on the 17th by the firm of Yunus Ustaz Usman (SAN) withdrawing from the case. The letter only surfaced after the unfortunate incident at the Appeal Court. So we are wondering if there was any threat from high places against officials of the INEC preventing them from making the letter public.

We also took special note of the presence of the Apapa-led splinter group, which attempted to hijack the representation of the party at the court. How did this splinter group come into the scenario and who got them involved? It is a known fact that this group has evolved as meddlesome interlopers and has severally worked against the larger interest of the Labour Party, even when the Supreme Court has refused them recognition, he stated.

Reacting via a statement, Special Adviser on Media to the minister, Gabriel Emameh, urged Labour Party to concentrate on resolving its internal crisis and leave Onyejeocha alone

While describing the allegation as a hatchet job, Emameh stated that a high-ranking former federal parliamentarian, who has been in the business of making laws for the country for 16 years would not stoop so low to have anything to do with the opposition party.

He said, Ahanotu has forgotten so soon that the crisis in the Labour Party started even before the inauguration of the partys Presidential Campaign Council in 2022. Why Ahanotu and his gang believe that Honourable Onyejeocha is the source of the army of problems that have ripped LP inside out is not just arrantly illogical but obsessive and demonic.

Despite all the pre-election posturing, it was all too clear to every discerning mind that the Labour Party was a fantasy house built on sand, of which its loss at the Presidential poll has continued to expose its rotten underbelly.

Robbed of her victory to return to the 10th Assembly, by LPs Amaobi Ogah, the learned judges of the Abia State National and State House of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal saw through the heist and returned her as duly elected. As a strong believer in the rule of law and the sanctity of the courtroom as well as the judiciary as the citadel of justice, she is optimistic that Daniel will also come to judgment at the Appeal Tribunal.

My honest and sincere counsel is that the LP should face up to the pervasive leadership crises in the party, look inwards and reinvent itself and allow the honourable minister to focus as she is too busy to be distracted.

Also, reacting via a statement, the spokesman for the Apapa faction, Abayomi Arabambi, debunked Ahanotus claim, saying there was no dalliance between them and the minister.

This was even as Arabambi stressed that the minister also has the right to seek legal redress if she suspects she has been robbed of her mandate.

He said, The LP dispels the allegation of alliance between the party and the Minister of State, Labour, and Employment, as purportedly stated in the Ahanotus concocted piece. We urge Nigerian citizens to feign ignorance of such a statement in the form of character assassination against a true democrat and a true citizen, who (Onyejeocha) is fighting to reclaim her mandate.

The LP has no relationship with the minister, neither did the party go against any Nigerian seeking redress in the courts of law. For the records, we need to educate the crops of baby charge and bail lawyers on Julius Abures payrolls on the issue of qualification. We submit that the issue of qualification of a candidate as it relates to its sponsorship by a political party is both a pre-election and post-election.
The presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, Peter Obi, has, in his latest jibe at President Bola Tinubu, said titles dont honour men but men bring honour to titles.

In a veiled reference to the President, Obi in a statement released by the Obi-Datti Media Office, late on Tuesday, declared that identity crisis and controversies have continued to haunt the Nigerian citadel of power since the February 25, 2023 presidential elections.

He said: There is this saying that It is not titles that honour men, but men honour titles.

The lofty titles that decorate people in power have little meaning if there is a hollowness and falsehood underneath them. Titles such as President, Governor etc, which decorate those in public office, mean nothing if they are not original and are fake if those who bear them have no honour to support the weight of the titles they carry.

In situations where there is public doubt as to the veracity and authenticity of these titles and the claims behind them, it is the role of the judiciary, when called upon, to uphold the honour of the titles through transparent rulings.

 judiciary

It is only through such judicial interventions that the public can be protected from the tyranny of dubious and duplicitous characters and identity fraudsters.

In such situations, the judiciary has a bounding duty in this regard to protect the value system of the society. This is one of the obligations of an impartial judiciary in a democracy.

The rule of law remains the lifeblood of democracy in all societies and by whatever definition across time. It remains the foundation for all our basic rights as humans.

It is the rule of law that binds society together. The expectation by the high and the low alike that their rights will be protected and respected by fair judges in transparent courts is what keeps citizens loyalty and belief in democracy.

People, irrespective of their station in life, approach the courts whenever they feel their rights are assailed in the expectation that fair courts will serve them justice according to law.





However, when the fairness of the judiciary is not assured and the transparency of judiciary operatives is uncertain, the rule of law will come under severe threat.

Once ordinary people lose faith in the fairness of the judiciary, the rule of law is threatened. With it, faith in democracy comes under threat as well.

A society is endangered when the rule of the powerful, the rich and the mighty replaces the rule of law.

When that obtains, justice becomes a commodity to be traded on between the rich and powerful on the one hand and a cult of corrupt judiciary operatives on the other.

When a democracy lives based on faulty justice, it opens society to obvious dangers. Governments become subject to impunity and casual violations of the rights of ordinary citizens.

The rich and powerful can trample on the rights of the lowly as there are no consequences for infractions or lawless acts. This can be the groundwork for a democracy to graduate into an autocracy.

US President Joe Biden could not be more apt when he said For any young democracy, the most difficult but important step is burying the legacy of tyranny and establishing an economy and a government and institutions that abide by the rule of law.




A final year student of the University of Portharcourt, UNIPORT identified simply as Collins has allegedly killed his lover Justina Tiffany Otuene for money ritual.





It was gathered that the suspect was caught by residents along NTA road Port-Harcourt while he was making attempts to dispose of the lifeless body of the deceased.





According to a blogger, Promise Uzoma Okoro, Collins had invited the deceased who is also a 300-level biochemistry student of the same university to his residence when the incident occurred.





Although details of the incident are still sketchy, reports said the suspect has been arrested by security operatives after the residents raised an alarm.





When contacted by newsmen, the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko simply said, I will get back to you on this report please.





There have been a series of similar cases across the country following the activities of the internet fraudsters, popularly known as Yahoo boys.
The House of Representatives has rejected a motion that sought to compel the federal government to make the 2023/2024 secondary school examination free for all Nigerians.

The motion, moved by Anamero Dekeri, called on the federal government to make WAEC, NECO and JAMB free for this academic session, but the lawmakers kicked against it.

This motion is coming at a time when Nigerians are still condemning the action of lawmakers to spend billions on their official vehicles.

In the motion, Dekeri said the federal government already saved money through the removal of petroleum subsidy and should help families that are struggling.

The lawmaker said the Ministry of Education should make the examinations free.

Urge the Ministry of Education to declare 2023 and 2024 WAEC, NECO and JAMB examinations registration free, to enable the common man have a direct benefit of fuel subsidy removal palliatives, Dekeris prayer reads.

Following the presentation of the motion, it was met with stiff opposition from members of the House.

The Majority Leader, Julius Ihonvbere moved an amendment that lawmakers should instead fund the free examination. But the amendment was countered by Ado Doguwa, who said members are already paying the fees.

Following a long debate, Awaji Abiante moved a motion for the House to step it down, and it was adopted unanimously.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Timely detection of cyber threats is a key concern, Head of Azerbaijan's Cyber Security Service Samir Rasulov said at at an event on ensuring the effectiveness of cyber protection of critical information structures within Critical Infrastructure Defence Challenge 2023 (CIDC-2023), Trend reports.

He stated that new cybersecurity solutions are being developed on a worldwide scale.

"However, the lifespan of solutions in this field is short, so the directions of our research should also change," the official added.

The State Special Communication and Information Security Service and the State Security Service of Azerbaijan are hosting CIDC-2023 at the Baku Congress Center.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has pledged to mobilize electoral support for President Bola Tinubu in the next election, saying those who scored 2,000 in the 2023 elections would score next to nothing in 2027.

The minister made the declaration on Thursday in Abuja, while playing host to leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC from Rivers State, led by the National Vice Chairman, South-South, Victor Giadom.

Wike also said he had no regrets about supporting President Tinubu in the last general election because he was out to ensure equity and justice, adding that he owes no one an apology.

Promising to carry the Rivers APC and all Nigerians along, the minister said he would never discriminate against anyone on the basis of religion, ethnicity or political affiliations.

He said: Let me say clearly and to the hearing of everyone: we owe a duty to continue to support Mr President irrespective of the political party we belong.

My position is not hidden. I owe nobody no apologies that I stand firm with Tinubu. I stand for equity, fairness and justice.

Inclusivity

I thank God today that the battle has ended to the glory of God. We are all members of the Nigerian state and therefore it is important for all of us to also understand that the Nigerian state does not belong to a particular person or group.

A country of this nature, if A takes, the next opportunity should go to B. Inclusivity. So, I am not going to discriminate against anyone. I am here for Nigerians. I am here for those who are members of political parties and those who are not members of any political party.

Mr. President, having emerged, is not the President of APC. He is the President of Nigeria. Of course, while he is governing Nigeria, he must also take care of the interests of his political party, no one can argue that. It is natural.





But when it comes to governance, Nigerians must benefit.





The interest of Rivers State is key. What will benefit our state is what we must always project. I am not a member of the APC but I believe that the support for Asiwaju was necessary.

Why supported Tinubu

Looking at all the candidates from the South, I knew that nobody could defeat Asiwaju. The capacity and political will to take action; he has it.

Most of you worked for Asiwaju. Those who didnt work for Asiwaju we know. It was not hidden. It was clear.

I am not a politician for self. I am a politician for all. Not me, me, me. Nobody does that. Any person who does that does not want to survive because, at the end of the day, you need people.

But be assured that all of us are working together for President Bola Tinubu.

Next election Rivers

I am sure in the next election, those who scored 2,000 would not get 50 votes again because we have nothing to give anybody again because our votes would go for President Bola Tinubu.

Earlier, Giadom had praised Wike for his decision to support the President and begged him to carry members of the Rivers APC along.

He said: This is a representative delegation of the APC in Rivers State. We are here to congratulate you on your appointment and thank you for the monumental support you gave our presidential candidate in the last election.

We urge you to continue to support and work towards the success of the administration and Nigeria.

We are aware that your support for our presidential candidate was out of your deep concern for justice.

We have no doubt in your capacity to deliver on the mandate of your office and to protect Rivers interests as well as to promote national unity.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Thursday, told his appointees that their job is secured.

In a viral video, Tinubu addressed his appointees and supporters with reassurance, saying, Your job is secured.

The video message comes shortly after the Supreme Courts decision affirming the Presidents victory, concluding a period of legal challenges and controversies surrounding his presidential election.

Tinubus assurance to his appointees is seen as a gesture of confidence and stability within his administration.

He was represented at the Supreme Court by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and his son, Seyi.

See video below:
Fifteen employees in the Bergen County borough of Palisades Park have filed workers compensation petitions, claiming they were sickened by mold in the municipal complex, according to an attorney representing the workers.

The borough has failed to address our clients medical and health complaints and the ongoing issues expose all borough employees to harmful mold and environmental hazards, Andrew R. Bronsnick, attorney for the workers, wrote in a letter on Wednesday to Mayor Paul Kim and Councilman Jae K. Park.

Bronsnick says in the letter he first brought the matter to Kim back in February but he has not heard back and that nothing has been done to remedy the alleged environmental hazards.

The attorney included Park in the most recent letter because the councilman was appointed in September to oversee the mold remediation committee.

Kim and Park did not immediately respond Thursday to requests for comment on the claims.

The employees work in the buildings administrative offices and have been afflicted with classic symptoms of mold exposure, including respiratory infections and breathing problems, Bronsnick told NJ Advance Media on Thursday.

Due to the failure of the borough to properly address the mold issue, our clients demand immediate action to rectify this problem, Bronsnicks letter states.

The continued failure of the borough to remedy the mold condition and the employees exposure will result in additional medical injuries and damages, the letter states. The borough will be held liable for failure to address the mold exposure and detrimental health concerns of our clients.

The letter was written one day after NJ Advance Media published a story about the boroughs public works crew abandoning the complex on Broad Avenue due to dozens of fire code violations and other environmental hazards.

Peeling paint, mold and fire code violations moved Public Works Director Austin Ashley to order his crew out of the Palisades Park Municipal Building earlier this year.submitted photo

The municipal complex, which was built in the 1960s, houses offices of the police and fire departments, the building department, municipal court, borough council chambers, the municipal clerks office and public works.

Austin Ashley, director of public works, ordered his crew to abandon the second floor of the building in August, noting 46 violations of state fire codes that had not been remedied by borough officials.

In a Sept. 18 email, Keith Bobrowski, a research scientist with the New Jersey Department of Health, notified Borough Administrator Dave Lorenzo that the state had received a complaint about environmental hazards in the building.

(The) building has presumed asbestos containing building materials and mold contamination in areas where police and other staff are required to work, states the email, obtained last week by NJ Advance Media.

The heating ventilation and air-conditioning system is inoperable and a temporary air conditioning unit is inadequate, wrote Bobrowski, who works with the states Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health Program.

In a Sept. 29 response, the borough administrator complained of the lack of direction from the governing body on how to address the many issues that have been identified.

The building has been plagued with mold, asbestos, and fire code violations for many years, Lorenzo wrote in his email. Most of the governing body members insist that the issues with the building are minor and should be fixed without spending much money.

Lorenzo wrote that at least 50 claims of first report of injury have been filed by employees as a result of the conditions, and that the borough has spent over $100,000 to prove that the building conditions are hazardous.

But they (the council) have spent little on addressing the root cause of the problems, Lorenzo wrote. This wastes taxpayer money, putting the borough employees and the public at risk. The health and safety of the borough employees and the public are at risk.

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Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino.
A Baltimore city firefighter who grew up in New Jersey died on Tuesday night from injuries sustained while battling a large blaze last week, authorities said.

Lt. Dillon J. Rinaldo, of Engine Company #46, suffered serious injuries from a two-alarm fire in West Baltimore last Thursday and was being treated at an area burn center. He was injured as he was rendering aid to a fellow firefighter, according to a statement from the Baltimore City Fire Department.

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that the Baltimore City Fire Department announces the passing a Fire Lieutenant, Dillon J. Rinaldo of Engine Company #46, the department said in a Facebook post. Lieutenant Rinaldo passed away due to the injuries, he suffered, while battling a West Baltimore fire and rendering aid to his comrade.

A GoFundMe campaign started by a family friend while Rinaldo was hospitalized had already raised more than $100,000 by Wednesday evening.

Rinaldo is the second firefighter to die from his injuries in the blaze. Firefighter Rodney W. Pitts III, of Engine Company #29, was killed while battling the fire, the department said.

Before moving to Baltimore, Rinaldo worked for the Fair Lawn Fire Department in Bergen County for six years. His father, Ralph Rinaldo, is the departments Deputy Chief.

In a statement on social media on Wednesday, Fair Lawn Fire Chief Jacob Mamo said many of the older firefighters served with Rinaldo and even remember him coming to the firehouse as a child.

This will be a very tough time for the department and the community as we have lost a great firefighter, a great person and a great friend, Mambo said.

Rinaldo was described as someone who liked to put others before himself, according to a description on the GoFundMe page. He was just months away from marrying his fiance Lauren Ridlon and the two had recently adopted a puppy named Dunkin.

The Fair Lawn Police Department also wrote its condolences in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

To the Rinaldo family, we are at a loss for words, the post said. Your son Dillon will never be forgotten. He had the biggest heart and would literally help anyone in need.

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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
A serial bank robber from Pennsylvania has been sentenced to more than 12 years in prison for robbing two banks in Camden County of a little more than $1,000 in early 2020.

Leon I. Stanford, 54, of Wilkes Barre robbed TD Bank on White Horse Pike in Oaklyn on Feb. 22 and Republic Bank on Route 70 in Cherry Hill two days later, authorities said. In both robberies he handed a teller a note demanding cash and fled in an SUV, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office for New Jersey.

Surveillance cameras and witnesses helped investigators obtain a partial plate number and Stanford was later arrested, federal prosecutors said.

Stanfords note said, small bills/no dye pack/ robbery, according to charging documents. The Oaklyn teller gave him about $500 and the Cherry Hill employee handed over about $555, court papers state.

He pleaded guilty to two counts of bank robbery in March. Stanford was sentenced Tuesday to 12 years, seven months in federal prison and three years of supervised release.

At the time of his arrest, Stanford was on supervised release by federal authorities after serving a 10-year sentence for a previous bank robbery.

Stanford pleaded guilty in 2010 to robbing a Citizens Bank and a Choice One Federal Credit Union over three days in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania in 2008, court records and media reports show.

He spent 10 years locked up and was released in August 2018. Court papers say he formerly worked in food services at a college in the Scranton area, and is originally from the Atlantic City area.

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NJ Advance Media staff writer Chris Sheldon contributed to this report.

Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
Millville has agreed to pay $110,000 to settle a lawsuit brought by a Florida man who claimed he was severely injured after cops allegedly released a police dog on him.

The civil suit, filed on June 16, 2021, claimed the actions of John Butschky, a K-9 unit member of the Millville Police Department, as well two other officers, were excessive force.

The incident unfolded on July 13, 2019 at 3:20 p.m. when officers were called to a Lisa Marie Terrace home for a domestic violence incident involving an argument between Tyler Beniston, the man who filed the suit, and his grandfather, according to the suit.

The grandfather told police that Beniston left the house wearing gym shorts and no shirt but that he was not armed and could be in a nearby wooded area, the suit stated.

Officers found the man walking toward a road about 400 feet into the woods and upon seeing police officers in the wooded area, Beniston did not flee, nor did he make any aggressive or threatening movements or actions towards the police officers, according to the court filing.

Butschky then allegedly let his his K-9, Rio, loose and the animal attacked Beniston, causing serious damage to his right leg below the knee, court documents said. The injuries caused permanent scarring and disfigurement, a loss of earnings and a depreciation of earning capacity, loss of activities, mental pain and suffering, psychological/psychiatric injury, embarrassment, humiliation and degradation, the loss of the normal pleasures and enjoyment of life, as well as having to receive and undergo medical attention.

On June 9, 2023, the city agreed to settle suit for $110,000 and in doing so, stated that the funds did not constitute an admission of wrongdoing by Millville or any of its employees and officials, according to the settlement agreement.

Millvilles business administrator and city attorney did not immediately return requests for comment.

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Whats it like to be a player traded from a Super Bowl contender to one of the worst teams in the league?

For former Philadelphia Eagles safety Terrell Edmunds, its all about embracing the opportunity in front of him with the 2-4 Tennessee Titans.

BUY EAGLES TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER

Honestly, you cant pout. You cant be sad or anything like that because its a business, Edmunds told reporters Wednesday. This is what we signed up for. This is our job. We have to go out there and do our job to the best of our ability. ... Wherever they put me ... Im going to try my best.

On Sunday night, Edmunds racked up nine tackles against the Miami Dolphins, and by Monday afternoon, he was a Titan, ready to learn a new defense.

The 6-1 Eagles traded Edmunds, a backup thrust into a starting role following injuries, and 2024 fifth- and sixth-round picks to the Titans for Kevin Byard, a two-time Pro Bowler and team leader.

Edmunds, 26, spent the first five seasons of his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers after being drafted in the first round. He played seven games with the Eagles this season.

Its definitely been a lot. Id be lying if I said its not, Edmunds said.

MORE SPORTS

- Why Yankees trading for Juan Soto could actually happen this winter

- Chiefs Travis Kelce responds to Jets Aaron Rodgers challenge

- Giants improved defense could lose starter at trade deadline, analyst says

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Jimmy Hascup may be reached at jhascup@njadvancemedia.com.
Forbes Advisor has released its rankings of the best and worst cities in America for renters, and it isnt looking good for renters in New Jersey.

Newark ranks dead last among the nations 96 largest cities in the Forbes survey, which crunched data from 23 metrics to determine the best and worst markets for renters.

Newark, with its combination of low incomes, high rents, high crime, and small apartment size earned a zero score in the survey, dropping it below Hialeah, Florida, as the city that offers renters the least bang for buck.

Rounding out the bottom five were San Bernardino, California, Anchorage, Alaska, and Los Angeles. New York City was rated the sixth-worst market for renters.

The survey found that 55% of Newark residents spend more than 30% of their monthly income on rent. The median family income in Newark is $32,000, so any rent increase eats into money that is set aside for other essentials, like food, clothing, and health care.

By contrast, life was good and much more affordable for renters in Sun Belt cities, which occupied the Top 5 spots in the Forbes survey. Two Arizona cities, Chandler and Gilbert, finished Number 1 and 2, followed by Henderson, Nevada, Plano, Texas, and Austin, Texas.

Forbes cited Chandlers median family income $91,299  nearly triple that of Newark  as one of the reasons that city was rated No. 1. And although rentals werent cheap, only 44% of Chandler residents spent more than 30% of their income on rent.

Newarks housing woes are not new, and so the cellar-dweller ranking isnt a shock for city officials  or residents.

Mayor Ras J. Baraka said the city needs more funding for affordable housing, but instead has fallen prey to predatory developers and out-of-town corporate investors who in recent years have been buying rental properties.

The Forbes article doesnt taken into account decades of intentional public policy that has created inequity and segregation that set some cities up for serious challenges and others for success, he said. The basis of Newarks problem begins with the state and the courts refusal to make affordable housing a real priority.

I know for a fact its true, Nelson Cross, the director of the United Tenants Association, said of Newarks bottom ranking. Im hoping that the Forbes article brings attention to this problem.

Cross was referring to limited liability corporations that have been buying up Newark s residential real estate and driving up rents. Most of these LLCs are made of investors are from out of town, he said.

These millionaires are not attached to the people, Cross said. The only thing theyre looking at is the profit margin.

Newark is a city where 78% of the 311,000 residents live in rental units. But 30% of the citys housing units are not under rent control.

The Forbes rankings underscore what most Newark residents already know: that finding a safe, affordable place to live is hard, and getting harder.

A study released last year by the Rutgers Law School Center on Law, Inequality and Metropolitan Equity identified two trends: rents that are rising much faster than incomes, and a sharp increase in the number of out-of-town corporate investors buying up residential properties.

The CLiME study found that in the 15 years before the coronavirus pandemic, rents rose 66%. But household incomes rose only 24% during the same period.

CLiME researchers also found that Newarks residential real estate market has turned white hot in recent years, with institutional investors buying up thousands of homes. Between 2017 and 2020, outside investors bought 2,500 homes in the mostly residential South and West wards, the study showed.

When a property changes hands, a rent increase often follows.

In August, the Newark city council enacted two ordinances designed to reign in skyrocketing rents. One ordinance extended rent control protection to small properties. The other allows residents to challenge in court what they consider unconscionable rent increases, although the law doesnt specify what that means.

Cross said its unreasonable to expect people who are fighting a rent increase to hire a lawyer. They cant afford to go up against corporate lawyers, he said.

Baraka said the city is working on more than a dozen initiatives to address the housing crisis. He said Newark has invested $20 million to create housing for families earning $32,000 or less and has expanded a program that offers forgivable loans to first-time homebuyers.

Housing is a basic human need and one that has our full commitment and attention here in Newark, he said. Our goal is to provide every resident the comfort and peace of mind that comes from stable, safe, affordable housing options.

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Richard Cowen may be reached at rcowen@njadvancemedia.com.
A war of words broke out between Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital and Sen. Bernie Sanders on Thursday after the Vermont senator called out hospital leaders for declining to testify at a hearing on its ongoing nurses strike.

The U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions  chaired by Sanders  had invited RWJUH nurses and leaders to the field hearing on Friday at Rutgers University.
The construction of storm surge barriers that Hoboken has coveted ever since Superstorm Sandys waves pummeled the city is underway.

Contractors have broken ground on the second, and primary, phase of work on the federally funded Rebuild By Design project that will fortify Hoboken and parts of Weehawken and Jersey City from storm surges.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is financing the construction of a 240 MW wind power plant in eastern Azerbaijan, a source at the bank told Trend.

This project is expected to be the first utility-scale wind power project in the country and the largest in the Caucasus region.

The Bank has arranged a syndicated loan worth $197.1 million (186.9 million euros) to ACWA Power Azerbaijan Renewable Energy, the project company owned by ACWA Power, an international developer, investor, co-owner and operator of a portfolio of power-generation and desalinated water-production plants.

The project will be co-financed by the OPEC Fund for International Development (OPEC Fund).

Once commissioned, the plants 240 MW of renewable energy will generate up to 893 GWh of clean electricity annually. It is expected to reduce carbon emissions by more than 400,000 tons annually.

"We are proud to finance this landmark project for the energy transition in Azerbaijan. Last year we signed a memorandum of understanding with our long-standing partner, ACWA Power, committing to delivering renewable energy, green hydrogen and green desalination projects in our regions. I am so pleased that with this signing we have already achieved nearly 1.5 GW of that promise to scale up renewable energy in the EBRD regions from megawatts to gigawatts. We are grateful to ACWA Power and the OPEC Fund for the shared commitment to climate action," Nandita Parshad, Managing Director of the EBRDs Sustainable Infrastructure Group, said.

In turn, Marco Arcelli, Chief Executive Officer of ACWA Power, noted that ACWA Power is enthusiastic about playing a pivotal role in helping Azerbaijan achieve its goal of meeting 30 percent of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2030.

"We are deeply grateful to our financing partners, the EBRD and the OPEC Fund, for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality. Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond borders and, as we mark another milestone for this significant project, we look forward to the continued support of all our stakeholders," he added.

OPEC Fund Director-General Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said that the OPEC Fund is proud to be a key partner in the Khizi-Absheron Wind Power Project, which will mark a shift in Azerbaijans energy landscape by promoting foreign investment and private sector financing for a public-private partnership renewable project.

"Through our support we aim to catalyse clean energy generation and a diversified energy future for Azerbaijan. The agreement is also testament to what international development cooperation can achieve," he noted.

According to the EBRD, this wind power project in Absheron and Khizi follows last years investment in the first utility-scale solar power plant in Garadagh. The Bank is a major enabler of the countrys ambitious green agenda, through investment as well as technical cooperation and policy dialogue anchored in the memorandum of understanding signed between the EBRD and Azerbaijan in December 2022.

The EBRD is an important institutional investor in the Caucasus region. To date, the Bank has invested more than 3.6 billion euros in 188 projects in Azerbaijan and focuses on helping the country diversify its economy and support its green climate goals.
A proposed deal that would extend Jersey Citys contract with an autonomous city agency that oversees the water and sewage system and put $50 million in the citys coffers has hit a major snag.

A request for the Jersey City Municipal Utilities Authorities (JCMUA) to bond for up to $55 million, made to the state Local Finance Board, was rejected Wednesday. Some $50 million of that money would have been paid to Jersey City over three years as a franchise fee in a 40-year contract extension.
The state Department of Health has warned city and state officials that Hoboken University Medical Center (HUMC) is in financial distress, and noted that CarePoint Health Systems other Hudson County hospitals, Christ Hospital in Jersey City and Bayonne Medical Center are facing similar difficulties.

The Department of Health letter was a warning of sorts, noting that the hospital requested an advance of state subsidies for a second straight year, citing emergency cash flow and other financial issues. The letter also states the hospital has been operating at a 14% loss and that hospital vendors are waiting nearly six months to be paid.
A federal jury in Trenton has convicted a Mercer County man in a December 2017 carjacking spree in Hamilton during which he wounded two people with a shotgun.

Cedrick Hodges, 40, faces up to 25 years behind bars when hes sentenced. The jury convicted him Tuesday of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during the carjacking, two attempted carjackings resulting in serious bodily injury and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, the U.S. Attorneys Office for New Jersey said.

After two days of conscientious deliberations, we respect the jurys verdict, said Hodges attorney Henry E. Klingeman, who tried the case with Ernesto Cerimele.

Hodges went on the rampage three months after being paroled from state prison in September 2017. He had served about 13 years of a 20-year prison term for another crime spree in Mercer County. In 2000 he sexually assaulted two women and committing a string of robberies over eight days.

In court, and from police documents, authorities have given this description of his crimes:

At about 9:30 p.m. on Dec. 16, 2017, Hodges jumped in the backseat of a vehicle that a woman was parking in the 2300 block of South Broad Street and ordered her to drive away. Get me out of here, get me out of here! Hodges demanded while holding a sawed-off shotgun. The woman ran, leaving the keys in the ignition, and Hodges fired at her and her husband as he came to her aid.

Moments later, on Lafayette Avenue, Hodges found another car occupied by two people and pointed the gun at the driver while ordering him out of the car. The 67-year-old driver refused and Hodges firee into the window, seriously wounding the man.

Moments after that shooting, Hodges found a man unlocking his parked vehicle and said, give me your keys. That man also refused and Hodges shot him in the arm.

Hodges ran and the victim saw him toss the shotgun over a fence between Lafayette and Harrison avenues. Hamilton police officers found Hodges at the corner of Genesee and Lily streets by following his footprints in the snow.

He had 18 unspent shotgun shells in his pockets, police said at the time. Police recovered the shotgun.

Hodges is currently in the Essex County jail awaiting federal sentencing, which has yet to be scheduled.

Assistant U.S. attorneys Eric Suggs and Tracey Agnew prosecuted the case.

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Kevin Shea may be reached at kshea@njadvancemedia.com
Officials at Joint Base McGuireDixLakehurst announced Thursday afternoon the New Jersey military facility was placed on lockdown because of a report of an active shooter on campus, but they noted 21 minutes later the situation was clear and everyone was safe, according to official statements on social media.

Base officials told NJ Advance Media an investigation quickly determined there was no active shooter.

Gov. Phil Murphy confirmed later Thursday afternoon the brief incident was the result of a false alarm.

Thank God it was a false alarm, Murphy said during his call-in television show on News 12 New Jersey.

The base, located in Burlington and Ocean counties, said on social media at 3:21 p.m. that all personnel were on lockdown because of an active shooter.

All personnel outdoors should take cover, the base added.

Then, at 3:42 p.m, the base posted UPDATE ALL CLEAR, noting the facility was no longer on lockdown and that we have confirmed all members of the base are safe.

We appreciate the publics continued support, the base added.

Endeavour Elementary School, which is located on the base, also locked down and dismissed its students once it was confirmed that the base was clear, said Helen Payne, superintendent of the North Hanover Township School District.

EDITORS NOTE: The headline and post have been updated after the base issued an all clear.

NJ Advance Media staff writer Katie Kausch contributed to this report.

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A 19-year-old college student from New Jersey was speeding and driving under the influence when he caused a crash in Connecticut last month that seriously injured four women and their Uber driver, authorities said.

Tyler Delk, of South Orange, was driving a convertible 85 mph on Jefferson Street in Fairfield when he lost control of the car and struck another vehicle on Sept. 29, Fairfield, Connecticut police said in a statement.

Delk, a student at Sacred Heart University, had a blood alcohol content of .20%, police said. In Connecticut, the limit for alcohol for a person under 21 years of age is .02%.

Delk, who was seriously injured in the crash, was charged Tuesday with driving under the influence, reckless driving and five counts each of assault with a motor vehicle and reckless endangerment.

Delk was charged at an area hospital and posted $250,000 bond. He will appear in court when he is medically cleared, Lt. Edward Nook said. The four Uber passengers are also Sacred Heart students, officials said.

Attorney information wasnt immediately available.

The Fairfield Police wish to thank all of those who performed life-saving measures to those involved in this terrible crash on scene and we wish a speedy recovery to everyone, the police statement said.

A GoFundMe established to cover Delks medical expenses said he suffered a brain injury, dissected carotid artery, broken jaw, broken ribs, collapsed lung, and lacerated spleen.

Delk is a 2022 graduate of Seton Hall Prep in West Orange.

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Investigative reporter Arnold Diaz died at the age of 74 after a battle with cancer.

Born in Brooklyn, the New York-based journalist attended Florida State University for his undergraduate education and earned a masters in journalism from Northwestern University in Chicago.

His career in news spanned 50 years. But what really made him well-known was his Shame on You segments that aired on CBS2 New York, as well as other outlets in his career.

The segments would often confront the individuals accused of taking advantage of the average New Yorker.

He won over 40 Emmy Awards for his work.

Diaz lost his battle with blood cancer on Tuesday, Oct. 24.

He is survived by his wife, Shawn, three children and two grandchildren, who are twins.

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Katherine Rodriguez can be reached at krodriguez@njadvancemedia.com. Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips.
More than five years after the horrific Paramus school bus crash on Route 80 that killed a student and a teacher, two cases have been settled for nearly $20 million, the attorney said.

The Paramus Public Schools reached a settlement with the family of Miranda Vargas, the 10-year-old student killed, for $7 million, said attorney Bruce Nagel. The district also settled with the family of Asher Majeed, who was critically injured in the crash, for $12.5 million, he said.

My clients were pleased to have settled these two tragic cases after five years of litigation, Nagel said. Both families have been shaken by the accident, he said.

And I dont think that they will ever fully recover from this very avoidable tragedy, he said.

The settlements were reached Oct. 4, Nagel said. They are two of the largest settlements reached in the accident, in which roughly 20 students were injured, he said.

Paramus Superintendent Sean Adams did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

On May 17, 2018, school bus driver Hudy Muldrow Sr. was driving students from East Brook Middle School in Paramus to the popular historic Waterloo Village in Stanhope, as part of a fifth-grade field trip.

Muldrow, then 77, sharply cut across three lanes on Route 80 in Mount Olive in an attempt to reach a cut-through and get to the other side of the highway, after missing an exit, when the school bus collided with a dump truck.

Vargas was killed alongside Jennifer Williamson, 51, a beloved social studies teacher. Another 43 students and staffers, including Majeed, were injured in the crash. Majeed was placed on a ventilator and spent another two weeks in a coma, relying on a feeding tube.

In 2020, Muldrow was sentenced to 10 years in state prison by a Morris County judge.

He will be eligible for release in 2025, at the age of 84, and will have to forfeit his license for an additional two years.

Nagel said his firm is the lead counsel in other cases related to the crash.

They are also still pursuing the case against the trucking company of the dump truck, Mendez Trucking, including if the case proceeds to trial.

Were hopeful that we can resolve the allocation and then finalize the settlement totally, he said.

Staff writer Katie Kausch contributed to this report.

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Brianna Kudisch may be reached at bkudisch@njadvancemedia.com.
Authorities have charged a New Jersey man who they say sent racist threats to an acquaintance.

Walter Maxim, 44, of Beachwood, has been arrested and charged with bias intimidation and making terroristic threats, among other charges, the Ocean County Prosecutors Office announced Wednesday.

On Oct. 23, relatives of the alleged victim reported to Beachwood police a member of their family had been harassed and threatened. The victim was known to Maxim, but was attending school outside of New Jersey when he allegedly started receiving racist text messages from Maxim, officials said.

According to the press release from the prosecutors office, the messages included racial slurs, foul language and threatening statements toward the victim and the family. The victim asked him to stop, but Maxim allegedly continued sending offensive messages.

An affidavit of probable cause was not immediately available Wednesday evening.

Maxim was taken into custody at his home on Tuesday, Oct. 24. He remains in the Ocean County Jail awaiting a detention hearing. His attorney information was not immediately available.

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Matthew Enuco can be reached at Menuco@njadvancemedia.com.
I am not a member of the Jewish community, but as a Black man and the president of the NAACP New Jersey State Conference, I know how critical it is to speak out clearly and unequivocally in the face of hate.

There should be no hesitation in condemning terrorist attacks against civilians. And there should be no hesitation in speaking out against the deeply antisemitic ideology of a group whose stated purpose is to wipe a sovereign nation off the map.
The sitting president of the Paterson City Council, already under indictment in a 2020 election fraud probe, faces new charges after state authorities say they uncovered evidence that he personally collected ballots in violation of New Jersey election law and tampered with witnesses in the case.

The fresh accusations against Alex Mendez provide new details in an long-looming vote-by-mail fraud probe that drew national attention after former President Donald Trump invoked the case in his attacks on the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential race.

Mendez, who represents the citys 3rd Ward, now faces nine counts ranging from conspiracy to commit election fraud to forgery and witness tampering, according to the state Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, which brought the charges. The accusations stem from Patersons May 2020 municipal race.

Authorities also said they had charged Mendezs wife, Yohanny Mendez, and two others in the scheme. Mendez and his attorney did not immediately return messages seeking comment. He has previously denied any wrongdoing.

In court documents made public Wednesday, state prosecutors additionally allege Mendezs associates stole ballots from residential mailboxes, tossing several that did not cast a vote for their candidate in the trash.

We allege that Mendez and his associates unlawfully collected ballots and tampered with ballots to give him an unfair edge in the race for the 3rd Ward seat on the Paterson City Council, said Thomas Eicher, director of the state public integrity office.

Authorities now claim that after he was indicted in February 2021, Mendez, his wife and others were captured on an audio recording discussing how to attempt to contact the witnesses against Alex Mendez and to propose a new statement they could give to law enforcement that would be helpful to the defense.

Mendez is one of four men initially charged in the probe, which was sparked by reports that hundreds of mail-in ballots were found in a mailbox in Paterson and another in nearby Haledon. At time time, the coronavirus pandemic forced many voters to mail in their ballots.

New Jersey election law permits so-called bearers to mail somebodys ballot for them  an accommodation meant to help elderly, infirm or other voters unable to cast a ballot in person. But such bearers are required to complete a certification on the ballots envelope and candidates are strictly forbidden from performing the task.

Mendez and another councilman, Michael Jackson, were both accused of illegally acting as bearers. The charges against Jackson remain pending more than three years later.

A third defendant, Shelim Khalique, saw charges dismissed and a fourth, Abu Razyen, was given pretrial intervention, according to The Paterson Press, which examined the status of the case last month.

In Mendezs case, authorities say his campaign collected many ballots not sealed by voters when they were turned over. Brought to campaign headquarters, the ballots were then examined to see which candidate they supported, authorities claim.

If the ballot did not select Mendez as the candidate of choice, his wife, Yohanny Mendez, allegedly would destroy the ballot and replace it with another mail-in ballot that did select Mendez for the council seat, state authorities said Wednesday.

A campaign associate, Omar Ledesma, was additionally accused of visiting specific neighborhoods and apartment buildings known to have large numbers of supporters of Mendezs main rival in the race, former Paterson Councilman William McKoy, and stealing ballots from mailboxes.

The fourth person charged Wednesday was Paterson resident Iris Rigo.

Separately, state authorities also announced another Paterson woman, Ninoska Adames, was charged with fraud and records tampering after she allegedly filled out a mail-in ballot for a relative to make it appear as if the relative could vote for Mendez in the 3rd Ward race.

That ballot was among nearly 400 other mail-in ballots allegedly dumped into the Haledon postal box by campaign workers as Mendez watched from his wifes car, authorities claim.

State Attorney General Matthew Platkin said Wednesday Adames generated a misleading paper trail with the intent of effectively adding a voter to the 3rd Ward.

And that voters ballot, along with others, were picked up for delivery by the eventual winner of the election in that section of Paterson, Platkin said, referring to Mendez.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The US will continue to push for peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller said during a briefing on October 26, Trend reports.

"I think that it is in the interests of the two parties, it is interest in the region, and it is in the interest of the broader world that those two parties reach a peace agreement, and we will continue to push it," he said.

Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov and Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan held bilateral talks on June 27-29 at the George P. Shultz National Foreign Affairs Training Center in Arlington, Virginia.

They met with US Secretary Antony Blinken and Assistant to the President and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan in Washington.

The ministers and their teams continued working on the draft bilateral peace agreement. They reached an agreement on additional articles and achieved mutual understanding on the draft agreement, meanwhile acknowledging that the positions on some key issues require further work.
A 78-year-old man was arrested last week on charges he sexually assaulted a then 15-year-old girl eight years ago.

Neil Rosenstein, of Elizabeth, was taken into custody after he got off an international flight that landed at Newark Liberty International Airport on Friday, the Union County Prosecutors Office said Thursday.

Rosenstein is charged with endangering the welfare of a child, aggravated criminal sexual contact and criminal sexual contact.

His attorney, Leslie Stolbof Sinemus, said Rosenstein was returning from a family vacation in South Africa when law enforcement took him into custody.

We were aware of the allegations (but) my client was not given an opportunity to surrender peaceably, she said.

The alleged assaults took place in Elizabeth during the summer of 2015.

Rosenstein was held at the Essex County jail ahead following his arrest but was released on Thursday morning, according to online jail records.

A pre-disposition conference scheduled for Nov. 30, a prosecutors office spokeswoman said

Anyone with additional information is asked Union County Prosecutors Office Det. Scott Chertoff at 908-358-9162 or Elizabeth police Det. Neptune Ambroise at 908-558-2014.

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Jeff Goldman may be reached at jeff_goldman@njadvancemedia.com.
A mayoral candidate in the 2022 election has been charged on allegations that he directed a group of people to forge more than 900 voter registration applications, authorities said.

Henrilynn Ibezim, 68, is accused of orchestrating the scheme while running for mayor of the city of Plainfield in Union County as a Unity Party candidate.

Following an investigation by the state Attorney Generals office, Ibezim was charged with election fraud, criminal attempt to commit false registration or transfer, tampering with public records, falsifying or tampering with records, forgery and hindering apprehension, officials said. Election fraud, the most serious offense he is charged with, is considered a second-degree crime.

Attempting to tamper with an election result through fraud impairs the ability of legitimate voters to choose their representatives, a cornerstone of American democracy, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said. It also undermines the legitimacy of government and the publics confidence in their elected officials and in elections generally. My office will vigorously pursue these crimes to protect New Jerseys electorate from being defrauded and to safeguard the integrity of our institutions.

Ibezim received fewer than 100 votes in the election and was defeated by Democratic incumbent Mayor Adrian O. Mapp.

Investigators have alleged that a group of associates and volunteers came to Ibezims home, where they filled out blank voter registration applications with voter information that the candidate provided to them.

Ibezim then showed up at a post office in Elizabeth on May 18, 2021, with a garbage bag containing 954 voter registration applications, purportedly from Plainfield residents, the Attorney Generals office said. An investigation of the incident later found that many of the applications had the same handwriting on them, officials said.

Investigators with the Attorney Generals Office of Public Integrity and Accountability have also alleged that Ibezim gave a false recorded statement, claiming that others had sold the phony applications to him.

Voter registration applications in New Jersey have a warning printed on them, stating that submitting a fraudulent form can result in $15,000 in fines and up to five years in prison.

The Attorney Generals office did not have attorney information for Ibezim on Wednesday evening.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
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Watertown, NY (13601)

Today

Considerable cloudiness with occasional rain showers. High 51F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Low near 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Among the very promising projects Azerbaijan is aimed to implement is the Zangezur Corridor. Proposed by Azerbaijan, this route aims to create a transportation link between Azerbaijan's mainland and its exclave, Nakhchivan, by traversing Armenian territory. This corridor emerged as part of the trilateral agreement following the 2020 second Karabakh war, with one provision stating Armenia's commitment to ensuring the security of transport connections to Nakhchivan, allowing unrestricted movement of people, vehicles, and goods in both directions.

However, Armenia has deliberately delayed the opening of this route to the point where Azerbaijan is contemplating rerouting it through Iran. Azerbaijani officials deny any intention to seize Armenia's Syunik province, through which the Zangezur corridor is planned. Still, they require reliable safety guarantees for passengers on the route between the main part of the country and Nakhchivan.

Recently, Georgian and Ukrainian politician Mikheil Saakashvili suggested that Armenia reconsider this delay and examine the potential benefits of this route. He proposed a solution similar to that of Ukraine and Moldova, where an act fixed boundaries and the use of a highway section while border and customs controls were not carried out.

On June 30, 2011, an agreement was signed in Chisinau, Moldova, delineating and establishing the boundaries of the Odessa-Reni highway segment in the vicinity of the Moldovan village of Palanka, as well as the adjacent land.

The responsibility for operating and maintaining the highway and all essential infrastructure on the transferred area falls to Ukraine. Concurrently, Moldova retains the privilege to utilize this designated highway segment without charge. Furthermore, the customary border, customs, and other forms of checks conducted when crossing state borders do not apply to this transferred section.

Initially, separate checkpoints existed on the Moldovan and Ukrainian sides. However, later on, a joint control mechanism was introduced to streamline the admission process. Additionally, the residents of Palanka settlement maintain an irrevocable right to unimpeded use of agricultural land encompassing over 900 hectares situated on Moldovan territory across from this highway.

This serves as a compelling illustration of how to potentially address this enduring matter. Beyond the clear financial advantages for Armenia, this route promises to invigorate the nation's economic growth and provide access to Western markets. Azerbaijan's initiative in this project sets the stage for broader regional development.

President Ilham Aliyev's strategy to transform Azerbaijan into a key transit hub in Eurasia is significantly elevating the country's geopolitical significance. The routes passing through Azerbaijan have become more appealing than ever due to the efforts to ensure secure and efficient transit. Azerbaijan's modern infrastructure for rail, road, and sea transport saves both time and money, resulting in a more than 75 percent increase in cargo transit volume last year.

Recent data reveals that from January through September 2023, cargo transport via all modes in Azerbaijan reached 166.9 million tons, marking a 5.9-percent increase year-on-year.

Opening the Zangezur Corridor would strengthen the Caspian Transport Network, including the East-West transport corridor and the North-South International Transport Corridor. It would also enhance the oil and gas pipeline system extending from the Caspian to Europe, boosting the region's transit capacity. Furthermore, the Zangezur Corridor, as part of the East-West Corridor, connects Asia and Europe through Azerbaijan, solidifying its position as Eurasia's transport and logistics hub.

In any scenario, the opening of the Zangezur Corridor appears inevitable. The key question remains: Is Armenia prepared to contribute?
It didnt take long before the warm and fuzzy Jeff Landry that graced our screens as a likable everyman during the gubernatorial primary gave way to the hard-right Republican ideologue who will become Louisianas governor on Jan. 8. One look at his transition team confirms it.

Landrys seven-member team will be advised by lead staffer Kyle Ruckert, who played a key role in Landrys win this year. Ruckert previously worked as a top aide to then-Sen. David Vitter and went on to advise his mentors unsuccessful race for governor in 2015. Ruckert is now a top GOP operative whose specialty is electing hard-right conservatives.

Landrys team includes his closest political advisors and financial supporters  but only one Black person (attorney Tim Hardy, who represents petrochemical interests) and one woman: Landrys wife Sharon.

Other transition team members include four co-chairs who are mega-donors and stalwart Landry supporters: Baton Rouge contractor Lane Grigsby, a self-proclaimed kingmaker and hard-right GOP financier; Harvey Gulf International Marine CEO Shane Guidry, who put Landry on his company payroll and is the AGs closest confidant; Steve Orlando, an oil services businessman and Landry neighbor who led a PAC supporting Landry; and Eddie Rispone, a contractor and Grigsby pal who lost to Gov. John Bel Edwards four years ago.

Also a co-chair: former U.S. Rep. Ralph Abraham, who, like Rispone, lost to JBE in 2019.

These appointees are not surprises. Despite how he campaigned, Landry has always been an ultra-conservative firebrand whos not a big fan of diversity, not even within his own party.

State Sen. Sharon Hewitt, R-Slidell, who also ran for governor, criticized Landry for not including more women on his transition team.

This is a swing and a miss, Hewitt tweeted.

I love the hat tip to Dizzy Dean and PeeWee Reese, but Im not sure if Landry putting his wife on the transition team even constitutes a swing.

Unlike Landry and most other candidates in that contest, Hewitt issued a series of specific policy papers outlining what she planned to implement as governor. She finished a disappointing seventh in the Oct. 14 primary, but her proposals reflect a solidly conservative approach to state governance.

Landry would have done well to include Hewitt on his team. He should at least suggest that Ruckert and other team members read her policy papers.

As for his teams composition, suffice it to say Landry does not subscribe to Abe Lincolns team of rivals approach to governance.

Thats his prerogative as governor-elect, of course. But, considering he won the jungle primary with less than 52% of the vote, itll be interesting to see how  or even if  Landry reaches out to the other 48%.

Landry could appoint committees focusing on key policy areas, as Edwards did eight years ago. That would give him an opportunity to include some folks with differing opinions  or at least some who arent C-suite insiders or worshipful ideologues.

Does Landry even care about other opinions?

As the Zen master says, well see.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Azerbaijani Army launched a counter-offensive operation, later called the "Iron Fist", on September 27, 2020, in response to the large-scale provocation of the Armenian armed forces along the frontline, Trend reports.

The erupted 44-day second Karabakh war ended with the liberation of Azerbaijans territories from nearly 30-year Armenian occupation and the restoration of territorial integrity.

Chronicle of the 30-th day of the second Karabakh war:

- President Ilham Aliyev addressed the nation.

- In his address to the nation, President Ilham Aliyev announced the names of the liberated villages of Zangilan, Gubadli and Jabrayil.

- First Vice President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva shared a post on her Instagram account about the liberation of several villages in Zangilan, Jabrayil, Gubadli disitricts and the city of Gubadli.

- President Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by the Italian Rai-1 TV channel.

- The Armenian armed forces shelled Azerbaijani units using artillery.

- Azerbaijans Tovuz, Gadabay and Dashkasan districts were shelled from Armenia.

- Armenia continued to violate the ceasefire.

- Aghjabadi district and Tartar city were subjected to shelling.

- An Armenian drone was destroyed.

- The Armenian armed forces shelled Tartar with 'Smerch' missiles.

- A video of the liberated villages of Padar and Khanlig in Gubadli district was released.

- A video of the liberated city of Gubadli was released.
A photo taken by Vinny Schiraldi, a youth justice expert, during a tour of the proposed youth unit at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola shows the interior of a cell in the unit. Schiraldi testified as an expert witness on behalf of plaintiffs in a lawsuit seeking to halt the plan.
After a 3-year-old girl was shot twice  once in the head and once in the abdomen  New Orleans police found gunshot residue on the hands of her father, another child and an unnamed witness during their investigation of the Algiers homicide scene Monday afternoon.

These details surfaced at a Wednesday bond hearing for the defendant, Virgil Ordon, 26, who was booked on counts of negligent homicide and possession of a firearm by a felon.

There, Ordon's defense said he was asleep when his daughter, Promyse Ordon, was fatally shot in the 3100 block of Rue Parc Fontaine. State prosecutors allege he pulled the trigger. They asked magistrate commissioner Peter Hamilton to upgrade Ordon's negligent homicide charge to first-degree murder, though the judge ultimately declined to do so.
Zigzag lines of dirt mark the first step of building a marsh terracing project in Cameron Parish on Thursday, May 13, 2021. BP, Shell and Hilcorp oil companies have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to halt a trial in state court filed by Cameron Parish to recover as much as $7 billion in damages to the coastal area that could be used to build similar projects. (Photo by Chris Granger | The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. An official inauguration of the 230 MW Garadagh Solar Power Plant has been held, Trend reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the ceremony.

The head of state addressed the event.

Speech by President Ilham Aliyev

- Dear ministers.

Dear guests.

Ladies and gentlemen.

Last March we were participating in the groundbreaking ceremony of the solar power plant. The video that was just shown demonstrates the historical moment in our history. Because that was a start, I am sure, of a big journey of our two brotherly countries. Today, we are very proud to see that in a relatively short period of time, something more than a year and a half, this empty part of Absheron Peninsula became the source of green energy. This is a remarkable achievement. I'd like to congratulate Masdar, its leadership for this outstanding contribution to the development of Azerbaijan and also to commitment to our country with respect to the green transition.

Today, among our guests, we are proud to see four ministers of the UAE government, and also a big delegation from brotherly country. This is a good example of our partnership and friendship and also it demonstrates that both countries pay big importance to today`s ceremony. First, because as it was already shown, it's the largest in the region and second, because it is, as I already said, only the beginning.

We have big plans and I'm sure that friendly and brotherly relations between UAE and Azerbaijan will continue to develop successfully. I'm sure that there'll be more projects. Later today we will be actually witnessing the signing ceremony of three investment agreements, which will lead to the production of one gigawatt of renewables in a very short period of time. So, we consider today's event as a bright example of brotherly relations between UAE and Azerbaijan.

I would like to express gratitude to our dear guests for being with us today. Id like to express special gratitude to Masdar, the company which trusted Azerbaijan, decided to start large-scale investments in renewables and will make it possible for Azerbaijan to achieve its goals with respect to green agenda. Today's project is the first among many to come.

As I said, three investment agreements will be signed today, but our plans are much broader. We plan to work together to produce in phases up to 10 gigawatts of renewables and that will be a total revolution in the energy development of the region, because Azerbaijan is a country where the first oil in the world was produced in the middle of 19th century. The first oil from offshore fields was produced in the middle of the last century. And now, having in mind that still we are rich in fossil fuel resources, we are moving towards green agenda. This is a deliberate choice. This is our contribution not only to the future development of Azerbaijan, but to the issues related to the climate change.

So, I'm very hopeful and absolutely sure that all our plans will be implemented. Today's ceremony actually demonstrates that. And also I hope that today's ceremony will be a good example and will send a good signal to many more companies from UAE to come to work with us. I know that recently, our national oil companies, energy companies ADNOC and SOCAR already became officially partners in Azerbaijan. I know that there are plans to work together in UAE and in other countries. So, we see now that the development of cooperation between our countries, governmental structures and companies is really elevating at the new stage.

Azerbaijan is a very friendly country for foreign investments. We enjoyed multibillion investment portfolio during last three decades. Total investments in Azerbaijan were more than 300 billion US dollars and almost 200 billion US dollars investments in the non-oil sector. This is our economic target now to continue to diversify our economy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. But at the same time, we understand that our oil and gas for many more years will be needed for the international market. For that purpose, multiple pipeline oil and gas pipeline systems have been commissioned, and now we export our oil and gas in different directions. Azerbaijan is the exporter of oil, natural gas, oil products, petrochemicals, electricity to international markets.

Of course, in the coming years we will export hydrogen, including green hydrogen. For that purpose, we are working very closely with our partners, companies from different countries of the world in order to create this potential.

With respect to investment climate of Azerbaijan, I already mentioned, Azerbaijan`s economy is very stable. During the last 20 years, our GDP grew more than four times. We managed to reduce our direct foreign debt to the level below 10% of GDP and reduce level of poverty, which was close to 50% 20 years ago, down to 5.5%.

So, it demonstrates that the fair distribution of the revenues coming from oil and gas exports create absolutely new reality. In the coming years, we are planning to implement the state program, which provides reinforcement of our national energy grid in a short period of time. This is absolutely necessary. Because I mentioned only projects, which we are planning to implement with Masdar. There are many other investment proposals and some of them are already in the face of implementation.

So, we will definitely need to reinforce our national energy grid and as I said, the state program is being implemented. We will do everything on time. We already allocated financial resources so that our investors, which produce renewable source of energy, feel themselves absolutely comfortable.

At the same time, I'd like to inform you that our renewable energy agenda is not limited only with solar or wind power stations. We are actively developing now our hydro energy potential in the liberated three years ago territories of Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur. We already commissioned hydropower stations of the capacity of 170 megawatts, and by the end of next year, it will be already 270 megawatts and within two-three years, it will be 500 megawatts of hydropower station, which will be another important contribution to the green energy transition.

And in general, Karabakh, Eastern Zangazur and Nakhchivan are being already announced the green energy zone. There is a big potential to use our natural resources, which apparently the wind became. Because wind has always been a source of some problems, especially when landing. But now wind is a natural resource.

So, it was maybe difficult to imagine some 10-20 years ago. But now, it is the case and especially wind in the Caspian is much more stronger, but even wind today here demonstrates that this potential is here.

So, these are the plans for the future. Of course, these investments will allow us to save a lot of natural gas, which we use now to produce electricity. And it's several billion cubic meters of natural gas, which will be saved for export. Because the Azerbaijani gas is needed more than ever before in Europe due to recent geopolitical changes.

We have commissioned major transportation infrastructure on time, 3,500 kilometers gas pipeline from Caspian offshore fields to Europe. And that will be another contribution to energy security of the broader region.

Of course, among our plans is to work actively with our partners to create energy corridor, Caspian-EU energy corridor. Last December, a corresponding agreement was signed. We have already started our activity, the steering committee already gathered couple of times. In several months, we will have a full feasibility study of the new energy security project  Green Energy Corridor, integrated transmission production and consumption facilities, including the electric cable under the Black Sea. At this moment, the feasibility study is being prepared for 4 gigawatts of renewables.

So, these are our plans, and our history of independence demonstrates that all our plans come true not only in the energy area, but also in all fields. Because we have political will, we have unity in our society. We have great partners and friends like UAE, and companies from UAE.

So, I'm sure that we will achieve all our goals, and we'll have many more ceremonies like that in the future. Once again, I'd like to express gratitude to our guests for being with us, and congratulate all of us on this remarkable event.

Thank you very much.

x x x

Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber addressed the ceremony.

Then, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber launched the Garadagh Solar PV Plant.

Made by Masdar company, the commemorative medal dedicated to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was presented to President Ilham Aliyev.

They posed together for a group photo.
Two Chalmette men traveling in a box truck to work on their next construction site died in the Interstate 55 pileup Monday when their vehicle ran into the flatbed of an 18-wheeler, according to a family friend.
Guest column: Indiginous communities can be engines of the economy, too
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan and Georgia make an important contribution to the energy security of Europe, Azerbaijani Prime Minister, Ali Asadov said at the IV International Silk Road Forum in Tbilisi, Trend reports.

Asadov stated that the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan oil pipeline, the South Caucasus Gas Pipeline (also known as Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum), and the Southern Gas Corridor, all of which are being completed with the two nations' cooperative participation, are regarded significant projects in this regard.

Furthermore, the prime minister stated that the Southern Gas Corridor enabled direct transport of Azerbaijani gas to Europe. In July, Azerbaijan and the European Commission signed a memorandum of agreement under which the volume of natural gas deliveries from Azerbaijan will be doubled by 2027.

"Today, we are collaborating to establish a green energy bridge to Europe. In this context, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary inked a strategic partnership agreement in Bucharest last December. Bulgaria has also expressed interest in participating in the initiative. We hope that this project will contribute to the energy security of many European countries," the prime minister said.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan has excellent economic and trade relations with four out of its five neighboring countries, Prime Minister of Azerbaijan Ali Asadov said during his speech at the 4th International Silk Road Forum held in Tbilisi, Trend reports.

"I want to tell the Prime Minister of Armenia that Azerbaijan expressed its position on signing a peace agreement immediately after the second Karabakh war. In accordance with the trilateral statement signed on November 10, 2020 [by Azerbaijani, Armenian and Russian leaders following the war], Azerbaijan has been working for a long time on opening communications," Asadov noted.

"We want to have the communications opened, but it depends not only on us. We are ready for this if the opposite side is willing to reciprocate. We have plenty of other opportunities," he added.

Earlier, speaking at the above forum, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said that "Armenia is interested in opening all transport and communications" in the region.
An abandoned boat has been removed on the river in Bideford to bring a slipway back into use for smaller boats, canoes and paddleboards.

Torridge District Council carried out the work to make the slipway at New Road functional again after it was partially blocked by the disused boat for months, plus a large tree trunk had also become entangled with the debris and the boat was decaying, filling with silt and mud from the river.

Council officers had previously tried to find out who owned the boat through social media pleas for information and through contact with the local boating community.

The council said anecdotal feedback suggested it was owned by someone who didnt have the resources to restore it as they had originally planned, but the owner could not be traced.

Council officers took the decision on health and safety grounds to have the boat removed rather than risk the further breakdown of the structure causing debris and other contaminants to drift into the estuary.

Local contractor and crane operator Nick Sampson was employed for the job and full access has now been restored.

Harbour officers have reminded boat owners that to comply with estuary and harbour regulations, they need to moor their vessels on a council registered buoy or mooring.

They also need to ensure they secure or tie up their vessel to prevent it escaping its mooring and interfering with other users.

Councillor Bob Hicks  Chair of the Harbour Board said: We do our best to trace ownership of vessels as the cost of removal where things have gone wrong shouldnt have to fall on the council and ultimately council tax payers.

In this case we were left with no alternative and officers have done a timely job in removing this hazard from the estuary before things got worse. Owners need to ensure they comply with regulations and abide by the rules covering usage of the river so that they dont spoil the enjoyment for others. Im glad full access to this slipway has now been restored.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The head of the Executive Power of Azerbaijan's Samukh district Firdovsi Aliyev, appointed by the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, was presented to the staff today, Trend reports.

He was presented to the staff by the Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan  Head of the Department for Territorial and Organizational Issues Zeynal Nagdaliyev in the presence of representatives of the district residents.

Nagdaliyev conveyed the instructions and recommendations of the head of state. Firdovsi Aliyev, in turn, thanked for the trust placed in him.
LAPORTE  A 48-year-old Michigan City woman who claimed to be a private investigator and investigative reporter with 35 years of experience has been charged with harassing a man she believes responsible for a local 2020 unsolved fatal hit-and-run crash, records show.

The charge is part of a wider vigilante-style social media response to the crash that resulted in Michigan City police taking the unusual step Wednesday of presenting details of their investigation to the media in an attempt to quell what they said are unfounded claims about the case that they fear could prevent a much-needed break before time runs out to file charges.

Erica Morse was charged Oct. 18 with misdemeanor harassment by written communication after the alleged victim told Trail Creek police that he had been receiving unwanted and harassing text messages from Morse.

"I'm getting tired of these (expletive) messages from this crazy (expletive), man," the complainant reportedly told police. "I can't take any more of this, man. I really can't."

The man said the messages were coming from Morse, whom he had spoken with earlier in the year and who is accusing him of being the driver responsible for the unsolved 2020 hit-and-run death of 46-year-old Tara Stevens.

Police: Alleged offender cleared early on

Stevens, who was from Michigan City but living in St. Joseph County in 2020, had just parked her vehicle and was crossing East Michigan Boulevard to attend a gathering at the Creekside Bar & Grill when she was struck shortly before midnight on Sept. 12, 2020 by what police determined was a dark colored 2010 to 2017 GMC Terrain.

The mother of two was flown to Memorial Hospital in South Bend due to the severity of her injuries and died a few days later, police said. An autopsy determined her cause of death was blunt force trauma from a motor vehicle crash, police said.

The man allegedly being targeted by Morse was cleared as a suspect very early on in the investigation, Michigan City police said Wednesday.

Police played a doorbell surveillance video for the media, which officers said shows the accused driver leaving his home with his wife as emergency sirens could be heard in the background already racing to the nearby site of the hit-and-run crash.

Portage man snorted fentanyl, drove with child and then overdosed, charges say He then took the child, who was in his care, and drove to another house where the overdose was reported.

The alleged victim in the harassment case said he began receiving text messages from Morse Sept. 13, police said. She claims in the messages that former coworkers of the man "are singing like canaries" and adds, "I love chasing serial killers."

Police said they traced the phone number back to Morse and found the number associated with the Facebook pages "Justice for Tara Stevens" and "Victim News Online." Both pages appeared Thursday morning to have been removed or otherwise made unsearchable.

Someone knows something

Among the text messages allegedly sent by Morse is one that reads, "I just want to make sure we're clear. It was your brother that gave you up. He lost his (expletive) the morning after you hit Tara."

Morse goes on to say that no one with decades of investigative experience "puts here entire career on the line unless she has cement proof. LOL cement, get it?," according to the police report.

"I cannot wait for you to sue me," she allegedly wrote.

Shirtless man with hands up in busy Portage roadway nabbed after dashing into bar, cops say While coming out of the stall to meet the officer, the accused reportedly dropped a clear glass smoking pipe and said another patron of the bar had given him the pipe and drugs, according to the arrest report.

Morse is scheduled to make an initial appearance on the charge Nov. 17 before LaPorte Superior Court Judge Greta Stirling Friedman, records show.

Michigan City police said Wednesday they have run out of new leads in their investigation of the hit-and-run with just less than two years to go to be able to file criminal charges in the case.

Part of the fear is that someone may have provided a vital piece of information to someone affiliated with the social media campaign rather than to police, who can actually use it to help find the driver, Police Chief Steve Forker said.

"Someone knows something," he said. "Someone saw vehicle damage. Someone fixed that vehicle. We need your help."

Forker and others at the department, who are up against a five-year limit to file charges, are hoping for a break in the case, whether that comes from a witness or from the driver seeking a clear conscience.

Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact Traffic Division Cmdr. Brian Wright at 219-874-3221, extension 1008.
HAMMOND  In less than a week all 37 gas stations in the city of Hammond will have to shut down overnight  unless the business can secure an exception.

However, the new ordinance, which takes effect Nov. 1, doesn't mean the end of 24/7 gas stations in Hammond. The legislation allows gas station owners to petition the Hammond Board of Public Works and Safety for an exception to the rule. As Nov. 1 inches closer and closer, dozens of Hammond gas stations are seeking exceptions.

Gas station owners have presented petitions during the last five BOW meetings, including two special meetings that were specifically scheduled to discuss petitions.

A total of 15 stations have filed petitions, though two have been withdrawn. The Board of Works has granted exceptions for three stations: the Calumet Avenue Shell, the Kennedy Avenue Citgo and the Indianapolis Boulevard Sav-A-Stop. Another nine petitions are currently being considered; the 15th petition will be heard during a Nov. 9 BOW meeting at 9 a.m.

The Luke gas station where Martin was killed filed a petition and went before the BOW last week, however no final ruling has been released. The BOW has to notify station owners of their decision 10 days after the hearing.

The mandatory closure has received a lot of pushback from gas station owners, employees and residents. Some have said being closed overnight will leave stations vulnerable to burglaries or that workers could be attacked when opening and closing the store, while others have noted the closure could put late shift employees out of work. Critics have also said the closures will just push crime to other businesses and communities. During a Thursday BOW meeting, Attorney Scott Yahne argued his client's gas station actually makes the neighborhood safer.

Yahne represented a family that owns both the Citgo Gas located at 3550 169th St. and the All Star located at 3707 169th St. However, the family chose to withdraw the All Star petition.

At night, Yahne said the Citgo, which sits across from Morton High School, is "almost like a lighthouse in that area." If the station were to close overnight and "go dark," Yahne said crime might increase.

This is a particularly good location to keep eyes on the surrounding neighborhood," Yahne explained.

Anish Chittalakattu, general manager for the BP located at 2300 Indianapolis Blvd., also presented a petition during the Thursday meeting. Because the station is located next to the BP Whiting Refinery, it serves many of the overnight workers. If forced to close between midnight and 5 a.m., Chittalakattu said the station would likely lose 15% of its business.

The BOW is evaluating stations based on lighting, existing security measures, past police calls, proximity to interstates to serve travelers, zoning and code compliance. Kevin Smith, corporation counsel for Hammond, said the ordinance has already helped the city address code violations at a number of gas stations. A common violation has been stations with signage that covers more than 25% of the building's windows.

The city has also used the petition process to get gas station's to join the police department's FUSU program. Launched just under a year ago, the FUSUS program allows residents and businesses to register their security cameras with Hammond PD. Sgt. Chris Gootee explained that if a business chooses to "integrate" their camera with FUSUS, Hammond Police will be able to access the footage in real-time when given permission. There are currently 633 integrated cameras in Hammond.

Smith said about a dozen gas stations have joined FUSUS since the overnight closure ordinance was passed.

I think the (petition) process has gone very well, I think it has been very eye-opening for the city," Smith said the petition hearings have helped police and city staff to get to know many of Hammond's gas station owners. He said these new relationships will help the city better-address any future safety concerns.

Whiting resident Kyle Kempke attended the Thursday BOW meeting, speaking on behalf of the BP on Indianapolis Blvd. Kempke, one of the station's regulars, said the owners live in the neighborhood and do a great job taking care of the property.

This is truly one of the last mom and pop stores," Kempke told the BOW.

During an Oct. 10 Common Council meeting, McDermott said the petition hearing process is intentionally "court-like." Station owners are asked to present a stack of evidence outlining why they should be granted an exception and Smith details the station's code compliance and safety history.

"We're anticipating a lawsuit and this is how we expect to conduct business under this ordinance from here forward so we're making sure we're dotting our I's and crossing our T's," McDermott said during the Oct. 10 meeting. "If we get sued, we are going to win, and if we don't win, I'm glad I went down on this ship, trying to make the city safer."

The Village of Oak Park, Illinois, which is located immediately west of Chicago, passed an ordinance limiting overnight gas station hours last September. According to the Wednesday Journal, seven gas station owners sued the village, however the case was dismissed.

This past January, Illinois State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, who is also the mayor of Calumet City, introduced the Armed Security Protection Act, legislation that would have mandated security guards at all Chicago gas stations, grocery stores, banks and pawn shops. The legislation did not make it out of committee. Gary elected officials have also sought to curb violence at gas stations. Over the past few years, Gary Mayor Jerome Prince and the Common Council have considered legislation that would require gas stations to have armed security guards overnight, but the ordinance has never moved forward.

PHOTOS: Renovations continue on the historic Bank Calumet tower in Hammond
After 40 days of striking, the United Auto Workers union reached an agreement with Ford the union is calling historic  the most lucrative per member since UAW founder Walter Reuther was president and worth four times the last contract.

The union won a 25% wage increase over four years, which will include an 11% raise upon ratification. The top wage rate will increase by an estimated 33% as a result of cost of living adjustments while the starting wage rate will rise by 68% as a result of an end to tiered wage rates.

Ford workers will return to work at the Chicago Assembly Plant and other factories as a ratification vote looms, to put more pressure on GM and Stellantis to strike similar bargains.

"Our stand-up strike has delivered," UAW President Sean Fain said in announcing the tentative contract Wednesday night. "What started as a strike at midnight at three plants on Sept. 15 has become a national movement."

UAW members have been striking for weeks at the Chicago Assembly Plant on the far South Side. On Monday workers went on strike at Sterling Heights Assembly, Stellantis' biggest plant. On Tuesday, union members went on strike at Arlington Assembly, GM's largest and most profitable plant.

"Ford knew what was coming for them on Wednesday if they didn't get a deal," Fain said. "That was checkmate."

UAW's 577,000 members will have to ratify the agreement with a simple majority vote. Local leaders will first go to Detroit so the UAW National Ford Council can vote on whether to send it to members.

"We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations," Ford CEO Jim Farley said. "Ford is proud to assemble the most vehicles in America and employ the most hourly auto workers. We are focused on restarting the Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again."

UAW Vice President Chuck Browning said the union won wage increases, cost of living adjustments, annual bonuses to retirees and other economic gains.

"There are more economic gains in each year of this contract than in the entirety of the 2019 contract," he said. "This deal puts more money on the table than the 2019 contract four times over. When we say historic, we mean it."

The top wage rate will rise to more than $40 an hour. Browning said temp workers will see their pay increase by 150% over the life of the contract as they're elevated to full-time workers.

"UAW workers at Ford will receive more in wage increases in the next four years than we have in the last 22 years combined," Browning said. "At ratification, workers will receive an immediate 11% wage increase. That's almost equal to all the wage increases since 2007 combined."

The union also won back what it lost to concessions in past rounds of negotiation when the industry was struggling, such as the cost of living adjustments from 2009 and and three-year wage progressions workers have not enjoyed since the Great Recession.

"We killed the divisive wage tier," Browning said. "We have finally added to our pension multiplier and provided more for retirement for current retirees, members with pensions and members for 401(k)s. On top of that, we made historic gains in job security. For the first time ever we won the right to strike over plant closures. For decades, that was an impossible demand. But through the power of the stand-up strike we have made it a reality. That means they can't devastate our communities and close plants with no consequences. Together, we have made history."

Fain credited workers' solidarity, including the striking UAW Local 551 workers "who brought the noise."

"We bring this contract back to you because we know it breaks records. We know it changes lives," he said. "But what happens next is up to you all."

The union plans to end its strike at Ford even before the ratification vote in the hope of getting the other two Big Three Detroit automakers to fall in line.

"We are calling on all Ford workers to go back to work while we vote on our tentative contract," Browning said. "This is a strategic move to get the best deal possible. The last thing GM and Stellantis want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and get left behind."
LEWISTON, Maine  Maines governor says 18 people were killed and 13 were injured in shootings in Maine. Gov. Janet Mills made the remarks at a press conference Thursday.

A man shot and killed the victims at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston and then fled into the night, sparking a massive search by hundreds of officers while frightened residents stayed locked in their homes Thursday under a shelter-in-place advisory.

Mills said the shooting suspect, Robert Card, is considered armed and dangerous, warns people not to approach him.

A police bulletin identified Card, 40, as a person of interest in the attack in Lewiston that sent panicked bowlers scrambling behind pins, into corners and a back room when shots rang out around 7 p.m. Wednesday. Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the U.S. Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

Maine State Police spokesperson Shannon Moss said the bowling alley shooting happened first.

Earlier, Lewiston Police said that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a children's bowling league.

One bowler, who identified himself only as Brandon, said he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it, he told The Associated Press.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said.

The bowling alley is home to traditional tenpin bowling as well as candlepin, a variant of bowling found in New England. Its located about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown. The alley has a small bar and is popular for local bowling leagues and childrens parties.

Wednesday was industry night at Schemengees Bar and Grille, with 25% discounts offered to customers who work in the bar or restaurant industry.

In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason, the business posted online, saying great people in this community were lost.

After the shooting, police, many armed with rifles, took up positions while the city descended into eerie quiet  punctuated by occasional sirens  as people hunkered down at home. Schools as far away as Kennebunk, more than 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Lewiston, closed out of caution on Thursday. And schools and public buildings were closed in Portland, the states largest city.

Bates and Bowdoin colleges canceled classes, as did the Gorham and Portland campuses of the University of Southern Maine.

Read more:

Photos: Mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine
A legislative study committee is recommending Indiana implement a sustainable annual increase to the pensions paid to most retired state and local government employees, including teachers.

The Indiana General Assembly typically authorizes the distribution of a 13th check to boost the modest pension earnings of former public employees by giving them a one-time bonus on top of their 12 monthly pension payments.

However, the Republican-controlled Legislature this year opted not to fund a 13th check, or a cost of living increase, leaving many retired Hoosier government workers struggling to keep up with the higher prices of essential goods and services.

To ensure that never happens again, the Legislatures Pension Management Oversight Committee is urging the General Assembly to approve a measure guaranteeing a 13th check each year for already retired public employees, and a 1% compounding cost of living adjustment, or COLA, for future retirees.

Andy Blough, chief actuary at the Indiana Public Retirement System, told the committee the post-retirement benefit increases likely could be funded on an ongoing basis by adjusting how pension contributions are allocated in the Public Employees Retirement Fund, and by increasing the contribution rate for the post-1996 Teachers Retirement Fund.

However, he said specific details concerning cost, contribution rates and increased pension payments, and their impact on the funded status of the pension programs, all will heavily depend on the nuances of the legislation crafted by the General Assembly.

State Rep. Chuck Moseley, D-Portage, a member of the study committee, said he favors any legislation that will ensure public sector retirees regularly receive either an annual 13th check or a COLA.

If we want Indiana to truly be a state that works, we must prioritize the well-being and dignity of both our current workers and our retirees. Many retirees face a significant set of unique challenges  from prescription costs to rising property taxes  and rely on the 13th check to make ends meet, Moseley said.

The 2024 General Assembly is set to convene its 10-week annual session in early January.

Northwest Indiana 2023 early voting sites, hours Lake County Government Center, 2293 N. Main St., Crown Point Judge Lorenzo Arredondo Justice Center, 3711 Main St., East Chicago Gary Public Library, 220 W. 5th Ave., Gary Lake County Courthouse, 232 Russell St., Hammond Hobart Police and Community Center, 705 E. 4th St., Hobart Lowell Town Hall, 501 E. Main St., Lowell Munster Town Hall, 1005 Ridge Rd., Munster Schererville Town Hall, 10 E. Joliet St., Schererville St. John Township Assessor's Office, 9157 Wicker Ave., St. John Wicker Park Social Center, 8554 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland Winfield Government Center, 10645 Randolph St., Winfield Porter County Administration Building, 155 Indiana Ave., Valparaiso North Porter County Government Complex, 3560 Willowcreek Road, Portage Valparaiso Fire Training Center, 355 Evans Ave., Valparaiso Chesterton Town Hall, 790 Broadway, Chesterton State Street Community Church, 209 State St., LaPorte LaPorte County Office Complex, 302 W. 8th St., Michigan City
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Center for Biological Diversity public association has appealed to the world organizations for the protection of animals that suffer from mine explosions in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

"As Azerbaijani civil society representatives, we firmly oppose Armenia's mine terror against the South Caucasus' ecology, biodiversity, and animals, the statement said.

According to preliminary data, the presence of more than 1.5 million mines and unexploded ordnance is assumed in territories liberated from Armenian occupation in 2020 and in which the sovereignty and constitutional order of the Republic of Azerbaijan (in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur) is fully restored in 2023 by clearing the remnants of illegal formations and Armed Forces of Armenia (in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur). Unfortunately, Azerbaijan is one of the world's most mine-contaminated countries.

Recently, videos and photos of two bears (Ursus arctos) that were victims of mines in the liberated territories were published (https://twitter.com/i/status/1715434183785426948), said the statement.

These videos have outraged us. One of the bears was injured in the film, and the other (the tiny bear) perished after being blown up by a mine. Unfortunately, the mine that killed the small bear was manufactured in Armenia in 2021. This implies that, even after the second Karabakh war in 2020, Armenia continued to mine Azerbaijani territory, taking use of the Lachin road. The Azerbaijani army's local anti-terrorist measures in Karabakh in September 2023 prevented Armenia from mining Azerbaijan's sovereign territories, said the association.

In addition, the public association said that a few years ago, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) also distributed an image of two leopards (Panthera pardus), whose legs were crippled on the border of Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Among the animals affected by mines in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, there are also species listed in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Such a cruel attitude shown by the Republic of Armenia towards fauna is unacceptable. The South Caucasus is rich in its biodiversity, and its wildlife should not be subjected to such treatment, said the statement.

In a statement, the group also claimed that Armenia employed animals as kamikaze killers. On September 11, 2023, Armenian illegal armed formations on Azerbaijani territory fitted an improvised explosive device with a remote control on the dog and pushed it to march towards Azerbaijani army positions. The terrorist act was averted thanks to the vigilance of Azerbaijani army soldiers.

This provocation is an act contrary to the Protocol on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Mines, Booby-Traps and Other Devices annexed to the Convention on the Prohibitions or Restrictions of the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed Excessively Injurious or to Have Indiscriminate Effects. The use of animals for the purpose of attempted murder does not fit into any moral framework.

The severity of the ecological disaster in the liberated lands, Armenia's ecocide, is sad. We also regard the destruction or burning of a considerable number of woods in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur during the 30-year occupation, as well as the chemical poisoning of lands and reservoirs by illicit mining businesses, to be animal slaughter. Armenia must account for its anti-humanistic deeds, eco-war, and animal abuse, said the association.

We appeal to Gretel Aguilar, General Director of the United for Life & Livelihoods organization, Executive Director of the World Animal Protection International organization Steve McIvor, Chairman of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Sally Spooner, co-founder of the Animal Defenders International, Jan Creamer, Chairman and co-founder of the Animal Protection and Rescue League Dina Kurda, Executive Directors of the Animal Ethics Olaya Freiria and Leah McKelvie, Executive Director of the Wild animal Initiative Cameron Meyer Shorb and the President of the World Wildlife Fund Adil Najam. We call on them to condemn these cruel actions of Armenia. This can help the Azerbaijani state to obtain accurate mine maps and save the nature of the South Caucasus. We do not want any living beings to continue to become victims of mines, said the statements.

The animal world should not be a victim of Armenia's military-political provocations. Wildlife and animals are asking us for help, said the association.
Morgan Stanley, one of Wall Streets most prestigious banks, said on Wednesday that it had chosen Ted Pick, a three-decade veteran of the firm, to be its next chief executive, ending an unusually public three-way race that James Gorman, the chief executive since 2010, once jokingly compared to the television series Succession.

Mr. Pick will begin his new role in January. His rivals for the job, Andy Saperstein and Dan Simkowitz, will take on bigger roles as co-presidents, overseeing Morgan Stanleys wealth management and sales and trading businesses, among other areas.

Mr. Gorman, 65, said he hoped and expected that Mr. Saperstein and Mr. Simkowitz would stay for the long term. The bank did not make either man available to be interviewed.

We were lucky that we had three really talented internal candidates, Mr. Gorman said after the announcement. Everyone told me that would lead to some major tribal wars  that didn't happen. The bank had publicly identified those internal candidates, a departure from the typically hush-hush process favored by much of corporate America for top jobs.
The tensions inflamed by the Israel-Hamas war that have roiled university campuses in the United States spilled into the Cooper Union in New York on Wednesday, with pro-Palestinian protesters pounding on one side of locked library doors and Jewish students on the other.

The episode, captured in a six-second video snippet that was widely shared on social media, was among the latest examples of how sharply the Middle East conflict has divided student bodies at a number of top liberal arts colleges.

The Cooper Union, which is on the edge of Manhattans East Village neighborhood and which grants degrees in art, architecture and engineering, has fewer than 1,000 students.

In the video, a small group of students, several identifiable as Jews by their skullcaps, can be seen talking to one another inside the library while students outside bang on the doors and yell pro-Palestinian slogans.

The encounter followed a planned protest that began at about 1 p.m. outside the college, according to accounts provided by the police, a Cooper Union spokeswoman and a student who was in the library at the time.

About 70 students had been chanting pro-Palestinian slogans while about 20 pro-Israel students stood nearby watching silently in a counterprotest, John Chell, chief of patrol for the Police Department, said at a news conference on Thursday.

Police officers had come to the protest in plainclothes at the request of college officials, he said.

Police were there from start to finish, Chief Chell said, contradicting earlier reports that said officers had not responded immediately.

At about 3:30 p.m., roughly 20 of the students who had been chanting went into the building, but did not swipe through security, Chief Chell said.

The students walked upstairs through the building toward the presidents office, followed by the police, college officials and private security guards, he said.

Some of the Jewish students who had been counter-protesting had gone to the library on the lobby level, where other students were also present, according to the student who was there. The student spoke on the condition of anonymity because of concerns about safety on campus.

Chief Chell said at no point did the police or private security at the campus perceive any danger from any of the protesters.

There was no direct threat. There was no damage, he said. And there was no danger to any students in that school.

As the pro-Palestinian students came downstairs toward the lobby, a Cooper Union staff member decided to close the door to the library, Chief Chell said.

For about 10 minutes, the pro-Palestinian students banged on the door and on the windows of the library, then left, Chief Chell said. The student who was in the library described feeling scared that the protesters might break down the doors and said the banging had lasted longer than 10 minutes.

College officials and the police then asked the Jewish students in the library if they felt safe leaving on their own and offered to get them transportation home, but they declined, he said.

In a statement, the Cooper Union spokeswoman, Kim Newman, said the library had been closed for about 20 minutes while the protesters moved through our building.

Some students who were previously in the library remained there during this time, Ms. Newman said, adding that all students, including the protesters, had dispersed by 5:30 p.m.

There were no arrests or summonses as a result of the episode, the police said.

Chief Chell said there would be police officers on campus on Thursday.

Well make sure that everything goes peaceful today, he said.
A woman who has accused the actor Jonathan Majors of assaulting her in a car in Manhattan in March was arrested late Wednesday on a countercomplaint he filed against her, claiming to be the true victim in the altercation, the police said.

The woman, Grace Jabbari, Mr. Majorss former girlfriend, was charged with misdemeanor counts of assault and criminal mischief and released with a desk appearance ticket that requires her to appear in court at a later date, the police said.

The arrest occurred even though the Manhattan district attorneys office said in a court filing this month that it had told lawyers for Ms. Jabbari and Mr. Majors in September that the office would decline to prosecute her if she were arrested.

And on Thursday, Doug Cohen, the press secretary for the district attorneys office, confirmed in a statement that it had officially declined to prosecute the case against Grace Jabbari because it lacks prosecutorial merit. The matter is now closed and sealed.
Why It Matters: The M.T.A. relies on congestion pricing money.

The next capital budget cycle for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the state agency that runs the subway and buses, relies heavily on revenue generated by the congestion pricing program, which would toll drivers entering Manhattan below 60th Street.

Without that money, the authority says it cant pay for crucial projects that could include making necessary updates to the subways aging signal system, which directs train traffic. The authority also has plans to build elevators and ramps to make the system accessible for people with ambulatory disabilities. And it has announced a pilot program to test platform barriers intended to keep transit riders from falling or being pushed onto tracks.

Background: New Jersey wants to stop the tolls.

In July, New Jersey sued the federal government to stop congestion pricing over concerns that it would place unfair financial and environmental burdens on the states residents. The litigation is the biggest threat to the tolling program, though New Jersey lawmakers have also drafted legislation to try to block its progress.

The authority had hoped to begin tolling drivers as soon as next spring, but the lawsuit has thrown that timeline into question.

During a news conference on Wednesday, Janno Lieber, the authoritys chairman and chief executive, said: We could have consequences if there is a significant delay in congestion pricing.

What the Critics Say: Suburbanites say the program creates more traffic and pollution.

The lawsuit argued that the Federal Highway Administration made a decision to rubber-stamp its approval of congestion pricing, which was the programs final federal hurdle. It called on the M.T.A. to further research the environmental impact of congestion pricing and argued that the tolls would push more traffic and pollution into other boroughs and suburban communities.

Reacting to Mr. Liebers comments on Wednesday, Representative Josh Gottheimer, a Democrat from New Jersey and leading opponent of congestion pricing, accused the authority of taking money from his states residents for its own benefit.

M.T.A. Chairman Lieber is admitting what weve been saying all along: New Yorks congestion tax is nothing more than a giant cash grab to fund the mismanaged M.T.A., Mr. Gottheimer said in an email.

The Numbers: Congestion pricing tolls are a big part of the M.T.A. capital budget.

The transit system has a $51.5 billion capital budget which runs from 2020 through next year. Congestion pricing is expected to generate $1 billion annually that the M.T.A. plans to leverage to finance up to $15 billion in bonds, making up roughly 29 percent of the budget to build infrastructure improvements and purchase new equipment.

Without that money, the authority warns it must drastically scale back capital projects.

Whats Next: Tolls are still coming.

Despite Mr. Liebers concerns, experts said that, for now, nothing is legally stopping the authority from continuing to roll out the program.

But if New Jersey prevails in court, the M.T.A. could be subjected to a more exhaustive study that would delay the tolls by roughly a year.

Transportation officials had already commissioned a rigorous environmental assessment whose documents numbered tens of thousands of pages. The M.T.A. would have to do more work to fulfill the more expansive environmental impact study that New Jersey is calling for, said Michael Gerrard, a professor of environmental law at Columbia Law School.

If the government puts its nose to the grindstone, it can do this in less than a year, Mr. Gerrard said.

The M.T.A. has yet to decide on toll rates. In last years environmental assessment, the authority said it was reviewing proposals that included potential fees of up to $23 for a rush-hour trip and $17 during off-peak hours.
If you care about Israel, you should be more worried than any other time since 1967. Back then, Israel defeated the armies of three Arab states  Egypt, Syria and Jordan  in what became known as the Six-Day War. Today, if you look closely, youll see that Israel is now fighting the Six-Front War.

This war is being fought by and through nonstate actors, nation-states, social networks, ideological movements, West Bank communities and Israeli political factions, and it is the most complex war that Ive ever covered. But one thing is crystal clear to me: Israel cannot win this six-front war alone. It can win only if Israel  and the United States  can assemble a global alliance.

Unfortunately, Israel today has a prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and a ruling coalition that will not and cannot produce the keystone needed to sustain such a global alliance. That keystone is to declare an end to the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank and overhaul Israels relations with the Palestinian Authority so that it becomes a credible, legitimate Palestinian partner that can govern a post-Hamas Gaza and forge a broader two-state solution including the West Bank.

If Israel is asking its best allies to help the Jewish state seek justice in Gaza while asking them to look the other way as Israel builds a settlement kingdom in the West Bank with the express goal of annexation, that is strategically and morally incoherent.

It wont work. Israel will not be able to generate the time, the financial assistance, the legitimacy, the Palestinian partner or the global allies it needs to win this six-front war.

And all six fronts are now hiding in plain sight.

First, Israel is fighting a full-scale war against Hamas in and around Gaza, in which, we can now see, Hamas still has so much residual capacity that it was able to launch a seaborne attack on Israel on Tuesday and on Wednesday fired long-range rockets toward Israels southern port city of Eilat and northern port city of Haifa.



It is terrifying to see how many resources Hamas diverted to build weapons rather than to aid Gazas human capital  and how effectively it hid that from Israel and the world. Indeed, it is hard not to notice the contrast between Gazas evident human poverty and the wealth of weaponry Hamas has built and deployed.

Hamass dream has long been the unification of the fronts surrounding Israel, regionally and globally. Israels strategy has always been to act in ways to prevent that  until this Netanyahu coalition of ultra-Orthodox and Jewish supremacists came to power last December and began behaving in ways that actually helped foster the unification of the anti-Israel fronts.

How so? The Jewish supremacists in Netanyahus cabinet immediately began to challenge the status quo on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which is revered by Muslims as the Noble Sanctuary and where one of Islams holiest sites, the Aqsa Mosque, stands. The Netanyahu government began taking steps to impose much harsher conditions on Palestinians from the West Bank and Gaza held in Israeli jails. And it laid plans for a huge expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank to prevent a contiguous Palestinian state from ever coming into being there. This is the first Israeli government ever to make annexation of the West Bank a stated objective in its coalition agreement.

On top of all of this, the United States appeared to be getting close to forging a deal for Saudi Arabia to normalize diplomatic and commercial relations with Israel  which would have been the crowning achievement of Netanyahus effort to prove that Israel could have normal relations with Arab and Muslim states and not have to give one inch to the Palestinians.

Which leads to the second front: Israel against Iran and its other proxies. That is, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, Islamist militias in Syria and Iraq and the Houthi militia in Yemen.

All of them in recent days have launched drones and rockets toward Israel or at U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria. I believe that Iran, like Hamas, saw the U.S.-Israel effort to normalize relations between Israel and Arab-Muslim states as a strategic threat that would have left Iran and its proxies isolated in the region. At the same time, I believe Hezbollah came to realize that if Israel obliterated Hamas, as it declared it would, Hezbollah would be next. It would also be much weaker without Hamas draining energy and focus from Israels military. Therefore, Hezbollah decided that, at a minimum, it needed to open a low-grade second front against Israel.

As a result, Israel has been forced to evacuate some 130,000 civilians from its northern border along with the tens of thousands of Israelis evacuated from the southwestern border with Gaza. This whole displacement puts a huge stress on housing and the Israeli treasury.

The third front is the universe of social networks and other digital narratives about who is good and who is evil. When the world gets this interdependent, when  thanks to smartphones and social networks  nothing is hidden and we can hear one another whisper, the dominant narrative has real strategic value. That social media was so easily manipulated by Hamas that the episode of a misfired Palestinian missile hitting a Gaza hospital was initially blamed on Israel is deeply disturbing, because these narratives shape the decisions of governments and politicians and the relationship between chief executives and their employees. Be advised: If Israel does invade Gaza, corporations everywhere will be facing competing demands from employees to denounce Israel or Hamas.

The fourth front is the intellectual/philosophical struggle between the international progressive movement and Israel. I believe that some elements of that progressive movement, which I realize is big and diverse, have lost their moral bearings on this issue. For instance, weve seen numerous demonstrations on American college campuses that essentially blame Israel for the barbaric Hamas invasion, arguing that Hamas is engaged in a legitimate anticolonial struggle. These progressive demonstrators seem to believe that all of Israel is a colonial enterprise  not just the West Bank settlements  and therefore the Jewish people do not have the right either to self-determination or self-defense in their ancestral homeland, whether its within post-1967 borders or pre-1967 ones.

And for an intellectual community seemingly concerned about nations occupying other nations and denying their right to self-rule, you dont see a lot of progressive college campus demonstrations against the biggest oppressing power in the Middle East today: Iran.

Besides crushing its own women seeking greater freedom of thought and dress, Tehran is effectively controlling four Arab states  Lebanon, Syria, Yemen and Iraq  through its proxies. Lebanon, a country I know well, has not been able to elect a new president for a year in large part because Iran refuses to allow the Lebanese to have any president who will not always bend to Tehrans wishes and interests. Unfortunately, independent Lebanese are powerless to remove Irans grip over their Parliament and government, exercised largely through the barrel of Hezbollah guns. Middle East Eye reported that back in 2014 Ali Reza Zakani, a Tehran city representative in the Iranian Parliament, was boasting about how Iran now rules in four Arab capitals: Baghdad, Damascus, Beirut and Sana, Yemen.

To reduce this incredibly complex struggle of two peoples for the same land to a colonial war is to commit intellectual fraud. Or as the Israeli writer Yossi Klein Halevi put it in The Times of Israel on Wednesday: To blame the occupation and its consequences wholly on Israel is to dismiss the history of Israeli peace offers and Palestinian rejection. To label Israel as one more colonialist creation is to distort the unique story of the homecoming of an uprooted people, a majority of whom were refugees from destroyed Jewish communities in the Middle East.
A two-day manhunt ended Friday when the authorities in Maine said they had found Robert R. Card Jr., 40, dead of an apparently self-inflicted gunshot wound. Mr. Card was suspected of fatally shooting 18 people and wounding 13 others at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday.

Image Robert Card. Credit... Lewiston Maine Police Department, via Associated Press

While Mr. Card was believed to be at large, the authorities had ordered tens of thousands of residents of Lewiston and some nearby towns to stay home or shelter in place, and warned that he was armed and dangerous. The hunt for him ranged across a wide area of southern Maine, and law enforcement agents scoured a number of locations, including properties belonging to his family in Bowdoin and a stretch of the Androscoggin River near a boat ramp in Lisbon Falls where his car was found abandoned.

In the end, the authorities located Mr. Cards body near a recycling center in Lisbon Falls where he had once worked. The discovery was made at 7:45 p.m. Friday, about 49 hours after the shooting rampage had begun, the authorities said. They did not say when they thought he died.

One aspect of Mr. Cards biography that seemed to loom large during the manhunt was his military service. According to the U.S. Armys public affairs office, he was a sergeant first class in the Army Reserve who had enlisted in December 2002 and was assigned to the Third Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment in Saco, Maine.

He was trained as a petroleum supply specialist, whose work involved shipping and storing vehicle and aircraft fuel, and did not serve on any combat deployments, according to an Army spokesman.

Police investigators were looking into an incident in which Mr. Card had a run-in with officials during a recent visit to Camp Smith, a National Guard training facility outside Peekskill, N.Y., not far from West Point, a senior law enforcement official said. The official said that Mr. Card was later evaluated at a mental health facility.

Bryce Dubee, an Army spokesman, said Mr. Cards reserve unit supported training at West Point in the summer, but there were no records to indicate he had instructed or participated in any training. Mr. Dubee declined to provide further details, citing federal privacy rules and the active investigation.

Mr. Card attended the University of Maine from 2001 to 2004, a university spokesman said, and majored in engineering technology. He did not complete his studies or graduate.

The recycling center near where he was found dead is operated by Maine Recycling. The companys owner, Leo Madden, said that Mr. Card used to work there.

His demeanor at Maine Recycling was no different from anybody else, Mr. Madden said.

Mr. Card was in Bowdoin, his hometown, to hunt deer as recently as last fall, a neighbor of his family said. Bowdoin is a small community about 16 miles from Lewiston. The neighbor, Rick Goddard, 44, said he had known the Card family most of his life, because Mr. Goddards parents live less than a mile down the road from the Card family house.

He described the Cards as quiet farmers who had been in the area for several generations.

A farm owned by the Card family sits a short drive away, beside a property that used to be owned by Mr. Cards grandfather, Mr. Goddard said, and he pointed to another property nearby that had once been home to Mr. Cards great-grandfather. It now sits abandoned.

Anna Betts contributed reporting.
How do you throw a state dinner on the South Lawn when the world is burning?

By their fourth time around, the Bidens know how to do this.

First, you call off a performance by an irreverent rock band. Then you dial down the celebrity wattage. And then you serve up some root vegetables and ice cream.

But, not a joke, you dont cancel. The party goes on because if the president cancels an event every time there is an emergency or a conflict overseas or Republicans render Congress nonfunctional, he would never leave the White House. And this state dinner, held in honor of Anthony Albanese, the Australian prime minister, was an opportunity to express a show of nuclear-powered military force to a planet that feels that it is about to spiral away from its axis.

We must continue to advance freedom, security and prosperity for all, President Biden said somberly at the dinner, and continue to build a future worthy of our highest hopes, even when its difficult  especially when its difficult.
For much of this week, after a federal judge temporarily froze the gag order she imposed on him, former President Donald J. Trump has acted like a mischievous latchkey kid, making the most of his unsupervised stint.

At least three times in the past three days, he has attacked Jack Smith, the special counsel leading his federal prosecutions, as deranged. Twice, he has weighed in about testimony attributed to his former chief of staff Mark Meadows, who could be a witness in the federal case accusing him of conspiring to overturn the 2020 election.

Each of Mr. Trumps comments appeared to violate the gag order put in place less than two weeks ago to limit his ability to intimidate witnesses in the case, assail prosecutors or otherwise disrupt the proceeding. And after the former president was fined $10,000 on Wednesday for flouting a similar directive imposed on him by the judge presiding over a civil trial he is facing in New York, federal prosecutors asked that he face consequences for his remarks about the election interference case as well.

On Friday, the judge who imposed the federal order, Tanya S. Chutkan, put it on hold for a week to allow the special counsels office and lawyers for Mr. Trump to file more papers about whether she should set it aside for an even longer period as an appeals court considers its merits.
At least four family members of a prominent Al Jazeera journalist in Gaza were killed, the news organization said on Wednesday.

The network said the wife, son, daughter and infant grandson of Wael al-Dahdouh, the Gaza bureau chief of Al Jazeeras Arabic-language service, were killed at the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, where they had been sheltering.

In a statement, Al Jazeeras parent company, the Al Jazeera Media Network, blamed an Israeli airstrike and condemned the killings as an indiscriminate assault. It said Mr. al-Dahdouhs family had taken refuge at the Nuseirat camp after Israel called for civilians to move south.

Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security, the network said.

A spokesperson for the Israeli military said in an email that it had targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area, adding that its forces take feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties.

Mr. al-Dahdouh had spent Wednesday reporting from Gaza City and learned of his familys deaths live on air, an Al Jazeera editor, Mohamed Moawad, said in posts on social media.

Al Jazeera identified two of the deceased as Mr. al-Dahdouhs teenage son, Mahmoud, and his young daughter, Sham. Footage aired by its Arabic-language channel on Wednesday showed him crouching over his sons body, stroking his face, inside what the network identified as Al Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah.

Photos also showed Mr. al-Dahdouh clutching what appeared to be his daughters small, shrouded body, looking down at her bloodied face in anguish.

In a translated interview aired by Al Jazeeras English-language channel, Mr. al-Dahdouh, his face wet with tears, said no one was safe in Gaza.

Mr. al-Dahdouh is the voice of Palestinians in Gaza, Hoda Abdel-Hamid, an Al Jazeera correspondent, wrote in a live update for the outlets coverage of the war, adding, ask anyone when you walk around the streets there.

The Committee to Protect Journalists, a watchdog group, said on Wednesday that the war between Israel and Hamas has taken a severe toll on journalists, and that those in Gaza faced particularly high risks. At least 24 journalists  20 of them Palestinian  were confirmed to have died in the conflict since Oct. 7, it said.

Among them is Issam Abdallah, a Reuters cameraman who was killed earlier this month amid clashes on Lebanons southern border with Israel that injured six other journalists from Reuters, Al Jazeera and Agence France-Presse.

Last year, the Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh, an Al Jazeera reporter known across the Middle East, was shot in the head and killed in the West Bank city of Jenin. Four months later, the Israeli Army acknowledged for the first time that she was likely killed by an Israeli soldier, but stopped short of definitively accepting responsibility for her death.
The blur offers a similar anonymity to the residents of Harlem in Ming Smiths nighttime photos from her Invisible Man series (1988-91). Where Smith uses long exposure to create her effect, Sondra Perry, in her video loop, Double Quadruple Etcetera Etcetera I & II (2013) relies on a tool in Photoshop that removes unwanted elements to partially obscure the bodies of two dancers. (One dancer, the artist Joiri Minaya, is also featured in Going Dark.) Though there is little to actually see in Perrys video  flashes of brown skin, braided hair and a shifting white chimera  I dare you to tear your eyes away.

John Edmonds overexposes his film to create solarized prints with velvety surfaces in which his Black male subjects take refuge in the shadows. A series of barely lit, moody images from Dawoud Beys Underground Railroad project (2017) reminds us that for the enslaved making flights to freedom, darkness was both a space of danger and also of protection.

The hoodie, not surprisingly, shows up in many forms. Kevin Beasley casts it in resin in   aint it? (2014), while Edmonds depicts young men who are doubly obscured  hoods up and seen from the back  in his large-scale photographs from 2018. Hammons mounts a hood directly onto the wall with In the Hood (1993) and in Repeating the Obvious (2019), Carrie Mae Weems introduces the garments in 39 ghostly images of Trayvon Martin, whose murder at age 17 epitomized the projection of white fear onto the Black male body.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Following local anti-terrorist measures in Azerbaijan's Karabakh region, it was determined that part of the guided missiles of the Kornet and Fagot anti-tank missile systems discovered in the region were purchased by Armenia directly from the manufacturer under a contract concluded at the end of 2020, and the other part was purchased from a third country through which the missiles were delivered to Karabakh, the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan told Trend.

"These facts are clear proof of the illegal military transportation from Armenia to the Karabakh region until the beginning of local anti-terrorist measures," the ministry said.

In order to ensure the provisions of the Trilateral Statement [signed by Azerbaijani, Armenian, and Russian leaders following the 2020 second Karabakh war], 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.
Elsewhere, documents relating to Operation Mincemeat  an implausible-sounding but ultimately successful World War II caper  are placed near a display about British military operations during the 1991 Persian Gulf war: This includes diary entries from an officer tasked with misleading Iraqi forces about where the invasion would begin. The tone of these extracts veers between the thoughtful and flowery  I lay in bed in a most strange situation; hearing the statement that soon we shall be at war, and I am amongst those involved  and the startlingly banal, as if the officer were describing a vacation abroad: amazing to think this is our third country in three days.

Despite the diverting presence of pencils-turned-knives and powder puffs with secret microfilm compartments, the emphasis throughout is on the warping effects of deception, the way spying unsettles and often oversteps legal and moral boundaries.

Take George Blake, a British double agent who spied for the Soviet Union for almost 10 years and was convicted of espionage in 1941. The show includes a letter from one of his supporters, which identifies what she saw as a monstrous piece of hypocrisy in Blakes imprisonment for betraying his country, when his job for MI6 had required him to convince Soviet officials to do the same thing.

Another exhibit considers Operation Ghost Stories, the yearslong F.B.I. investigation that uncovered a network of Russian sleeper agents in the United States. Posing as ordinary American citizens, some of the spies raised children who had no idea about their parents true identities. In a video interview, an F.B.I. agent who surveilled one family for years reflects on the experience of closely watching the children: I saw them grow up into beautiful young women, he says, and then one day, we arrested mom and dad.
Welcome to Best of Late Night, a rundown of the previous nights highlights that lets you sleep  and lets us get paid to watch comedy. Here are the 50 best movies on Netflix right now.

Who is Mike Johnson?

After three weeks of Republicans struggling to agree on a nominee, Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana was voted speaker of the House on Wednesday.

Our long national nightmare is finally different, Stephen Colbert said on Wednesday. He called Mr. Johnson the most generic-sounding congressional leader since the election of Speaker James Kirkland Brand.
Welcome to the Trump on Trial newsletter!

Were Maggie Haberman and Alan Feuer, your hosts for this first edition of our guide to Donald Trumps proliferating legal troubles and their intersection with his efforts to return to the White House.

Maggie literally wrote the book on Trump  Confidence Man  and has followed the former president since his days as a New York City real estate developer. Alan has been covering the courts for more than 20 years, and has been closely tracking the hundreds of cases stemming from the attack on the Capitol by a pro-Trump mob.

More recently, we have worked together reporting on the complex and often confusing array of criminal and civil proceedings that Trump is facing: seven major cases in six courthouses in four cities. The constellation of legal problems is unfolding at an extraordinary moment not only for him, but for the country: just as he solidifies his position as the Republican Partys leading 2024 presidential candidate in a campaign marked by his continued baseless claims that he was robbed of victory in 2020.

In the coming months, we will help you track both the big picture and the telling details of the legal cases. We will also grapple with what the cases tell us about a climate in which a former president facing an array of criminal charges remains a powerful political force. And we look forward to hearing from you and answering your questions along the way.
When Shawn Fain sought the presidency of the United Automobile Workers union last year, he ran on a platform that promised: No corruption. No concessions. No tiers.

That pledge encapsulated many members frustrations with years of union scandal and concessions to the three big Detroit automakers, including the creation of a lower tier of wages for newer employees. The platform helped propel Mr. Fain to the top job  where he has led a mounting wave of walkouts in recent weeks to demand more favorable contract terms.

But the platform largely predated Mr. Fains candidacy. It was devised by a group called Unite All Workers for Democracy, which was officially formed in 2020 as a caucus  essentially, a political party within the union.

The group set out to topple the ruling party, known as the Administration Caucus, which had run the union for more than 70 years. In 2022, Unite All Workers hashed out its party line, recruited candidates and ramped up a campaign operation to elect them.
Siemens Energy, a major European manufacturer of wind farms, power grids and natural gas turbines, said Thursday that it was in talks with the German government about securing financial guarantees to help it continue to build future large projects.

The companys board is evaluating various measures to strengthen the balance sheet, the company said in a news release. The statement said preliminary talks were underway with banks and the government.

News that the Munich-based company was seeking help spooked investors, sending its stock price down 35 percent.

Siemens Energys difficulties could be a warning that financial problems weighing on makers of renewable energy equipment could be growing more severe. These businesses are expected to be integral to helping economies shift to cleaner energy, but many are struggling to grow fast enough.
Of all of the efforts by the Biden administration to protect environmentally fragile lands, few have generated as much vitriol as a proposal that would block oil and gas drilling on 1.6 million acres of high desert sagebrush steppe in Wyoming.

One lawmaker in the Republican-led Wyoming Legislature called President Bidens plan an attempt at total government control. Another declared it the worst disaster in American history, affecting more people than the Civil War, Pearl Harbor and 9/11 combined. Some spread fears that China would influence the governments decision-making. A federal lands manager said she had received violent threats, prompting an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

The 1,350-page proposal for managing 3.6 million of acres of federal land in Southwest Wyoming was years in the making but still took many Wyoming residents by surprise when the Bureau of Land Management made it public in August.

In addition to blocking energy development on nearly half that land, or 1.6 million acres, the plan would also restrict mining and some grazing. Those areas include petroglyphs dating back some 200 years, North Americas largest sand dunes and migration corridors in the Red Desert for bighorn sheep, mule deer and elk.
Re-enactment is not an unusual or particularly novel tool in documentary filmmaking yet recently it seems to have made a pointed resurgence  perhaps because the method has a distinct relationship to trauma and offers a compelling means of picking open old wounds for cathartic and/or healing purposes. Think Framing Agnes, Procession, and Nathan Fielders HBO series The Rehearsal.

Four Daughters is another re-enactment film, distinct for the sense of intimacy and familiarity it brings to seemingly extraordinary circumstances. Olfa Hamrouni, a Tunisian woman, has four daughters, two of whom disappeared in 2015 to join ISIS in Libya. Directed by Kaouther Ben Hania, the documentary blends direct testimony by Olfa and her two youngest daughters, Eya and Tayssir, with stagings of pivotal scenes from the familys life. The talking-heads style confessions, beautifully framed in velvety shadows, resemble stained-glass portraits.
Pain Hustlers, a conflicted yet entertaining dramedy from David Yates, takes its title from a group of pitchmen hawking fentanyl to clinics across the southeast. The drug is legal. Their sales methods arent  but in the mockumentary footage that opens the film, they try to sell the audience on their innocence. One pusher (Catherine OHara) huffs defensively that shes not El Chapo or something.

The script, by Wells Tower, is about a fictive drug named Lonafen. Its inspired by the journalist Evan Hughess coverage of Insys Therapeutics, whose founder, John Kapoor, was convicted and served two years in prison. Like so many other recent movies on brands from Blackberry to Beanie Babies, its about how low people will sink to make a buck while justifying their misdeeds as the cost of successful capitalism. Turns out the price of a soul is pretty cheap.

Our way into the story is Liza Drake (Emily Blunt), a single mother who once peddled lipstick, steak knives, and pig dung, and is scraping by as a stripper when a skeevy patron, Pete (Chris Evans), enlists her into pharmaceutical sales. Her new boss, a widower named Dr. Neel (Andy Garcia), invented a fast-acting fentanyl spray for cancer patients like his late wife. Within months, Liza propels Lonafens market penetration from zero to 86 percent.
The circumstances surrounding the Georgia criminal case and the Manhattan civil fraud trial are vastly different. But near the center of each case are lawyers who pledged public fealty to Mr. Trump  until they very publicly did not.

Mr. Trump has long relied on a phalanx of legal attack dogs to speak on his behalf, or to do or say things he would rather not do or say himself. And because Mr. Trump has such a tenuous relationship with the truth, those lieutenants often spread a message that prosecutors and investigators consider to be outright lies. Lies about an election he lost, a relationship with a porn star he may have had and a net worth he may not quite have achieved.

Now those statements are ricocheting back at Mr. Trump as he contends with the civil trial in New York, brought by the states attorney general, Letitia James, and with four criminal indictments up and down the East Coast. And while Mr. Trump is quick to blame his betrayers  Mr. Cohen is proven to be a liar, he said outside the courtroom this week  his predicament was born from his own lopsided approach to relationships.

Mr. Trump has a history of disavowing people who were once close to him and find themselves in trouble. He had long since cut ties with Mr. Cohen  until Tuesday, they had not seen each other in five years  and more recently he distanced himself from the lawyers in the Georgia case. He had also refused to pay their mounting legal bills.

Their relationships, a one-way street flowing in Mr. Trumps direction, appeared to work for a time. But when those loyal soldiers faced their own legal jeopardy, their allegiance to the former president became strained or even shattered.
Donald J. Trump has twice run afoul of a narrow gag order placed on him by the judge overseeing his civil fraud trial in New York, and has been fined a total of $15,000.

Its a rounding error for a former president who measures his net worth in the billions. But if Mr. Trump continues to violate the order, which bars him from attacking the judges staff, the punishments could intensify. The judge, Arthur F. Engoron, has warned of harsher fines, contempt of court and possible imprisonment.

This court is way beyond the warning stage, Justice Engoron wrote last week when he levied the first $5,000 punishment, which he called nominal.

This week, when Mr. Trump appeared to criticize Justice Engorons law clerk to reporters, the judge summoned the former president to the witness stand. Mr. Trump denied that his veiled remarks had referred to the clerk, but in an order on Thursday, Justice Engoron fined Mr. Trump $10,000, and declared that his testimony rings hollow and untrue.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Russia is still willing to host the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia, with the possibility of a full-fledged trilateral summit provided Yerevan demonstrates political commitment, Spokesperson for Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said during a weekly briefing, Trend reports.

"The mistake of Yerevan's betting on Western mediation in Armenian-Azerbaijani normalization and attempts to scuttle the implementation of a set of trilateral agreements is becoming more and more obvious," she 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.
Some of the cubicles are close to the walls, so no more jogging.

The new cubicle spaces will be filled by artists from the Whitneys highly selective Independent Study Program, which nurtures the next generation of artists and for which Lichtenstein himself once led seminars. The building with the studio, where Lichtenstein and his wife lived, has been renovated and expanded for the program.

Weinberg noted that the work was completed in time for the Lichtenstein centenary tomorrow. The artists foundation is marking the occasion by publishing the comprehensive catalogue raisonne on Lichtensteins birthday, with detailed records on more than 5,500 recognized works.

Lichtenstein bought the building, originally a metalworking shop, in 1987 after he fell in love with it, his widow, Dorothy Lichtenstein, said on Tuesday. It was the largest studio he ever had, a dream studio. The Roy Lichtenstein Foundation used the building after his death, assembling archives and preparing the catalogue raisonne. Lichtensteins family gave the building to the Whitney last year. The Los Angeles-based firm Johnston Marklee led the design of the renovation project.

Lichtensteins connection to the Whitney was cemented in the 1960s. His work was exhibited in the museums A Decade of American Drawing, 1955-1965 in 1965 and in its annual exhibition of contemporary painting that year. Since then, the Lichtenstein Foundation has given the Whitney more than 400 Lichtensteins  paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures and photographs.

What youll see is a constant reminder of Roys presence, Weinberg said, looking around Lichtensteins former studio space. If you go to historic studios, he said, referring to the artists Frederic Church and Winslow Homer, thats about a re-creation. Its more of a memorial.
Another line was crossed two weeks ago when the government announced charges against the writer Arundhati Roy. Ms. Roy, whose works include the novel The God of Small Things and the essay collection My Seditious Heart, is one of the greatest writers of our time. She has been a voice for truth, tolerance and sanity in India for decades. Her books and essays record the utter apathy of the post-independence ruling class as India descended into the chaos of Mr. Modis right-wing politics. Jailing Ms. Roy would be not unlike America imprisoning a writer of the moral stature of Toni Morrison or James Baldwin.

The charges against her represent a pivotal moment for India; if Ms. Roy is incarcerated, she will become the countrys highest-profile prisoner of conscience.

She would join a growing body of writers, activists and intellectuals.

Shortly after Ms. Roy was charged, 12 leading international human rights groups issued a joint statement accusing Indian authorities of abusing a counterterrorism law, financial regulations and other laws to silence journalists, human rights defenders, activists and critics of the government.

This has been going on for years. According to the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties, in the five years before Mr. Modi took power, the central government filed just 69 cases under the draconian Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, an overly broad state security law that allows detention for extended periods without due process. Under Mr. Modi, the number of cases filed has jumped to 288 as of September 2022.

The charges against Ms. Roy are typically absurd. She is accused of provocative speech and promoting enmity between different groups merely for comments made in 2010 that questioned the Indian governments claims to the disputed, restive region of Kashmir. But the real reason she is being targeted now  13 years later  is surely her courageous criticism of the intolerance and violence unleashed under Mr. Modi. People like her are among Indias greatest assets because they stand for truth and decency, but they are being cast as enemies of the state. India is devouring its best and brightest.
Were living through an era of collapsing paradigms. The conceptual frames that many people use to organize their understanding of the world are crashing and burning upon contact with Middle Eastern reality.

The first paradigm that failed this month was critical race theory or woke-ism. Yascha Mounk has a good history of this body of thought in his outstanding book The Identity Trap. But as it applies to the Middle East the relevant ideas in this paradigm are these: International conflicts can be seen through a prism of American identity categories like race. In any situation there are evil people who are colonizer/oppressors and good people who are colonized/oppressed. Its not necessary to know about the particular facts about any global conflict, because of intersectionality: All struggles are part of the same struggle between the oppressors and the oppressed.

This paradigm shapes how many on the campus left saw the Hamas terror attacks and were thus pushed into a series of ridiculous postures. A group of highly educated American progressives cheered on Hamas as anti-colonialist freedom fighters even though Hamas is a theocratic, genocidal terrorist force that oppresses L.G.B.T.Q. people and revels in the massacres of innocents. These campus activists showed little compassion for Israeli men and women who were murdered at a music festival because they were perceived as settlers and hence worthy of extermination. Many progressives called for an immediate cease-fire, denying Israel the right to defend itself, which is enshrined in international law  as if Nigeria should have declared a cease-fire the day after Boko Haram kidnapped 276 girls in 2014.

American universities exist to give students the conceptual tools to understand the world. It appears that at many universities students are instead being fed simplistic ideological categories that blind them to reality.
After spending three weeks plumbing the depths of a chaotic power vacuum, House Republicans seem to have finally found their man. And while the selection of Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana as speaker offers immediate relief from an exhausting, internecine process, his elevation does little to address the underlying conflict that led to Kevin McCarthys demise as speaker.

While far from a household name, even by congressional standards, Mr. Johnson is well situated to bridge a divided conference. As vice chairman of the G.O.P. conference, he has been an elected member of leadership without being a part of its core; he is a former chairman of the conservative Republican Study Committee and a Judiciary Committee ally of Representative Jim Jordan of Ohio but with a mild temperament that endears him to the establishment wing of the party. He has signaled an openness to the job but resisted being caught up in the fray, thereby managing to avoid the sort of commitments that would limit his options.

Mr. Johnson is not your prototypical party leader, and his mere candidacy sent many in Washington scrambling for their Congressional Directory. And in some ways this was the point  a clean break from the McCarthy mold of speaker as pure political animal. But while his unassuming manner, ideological credentials with conservatives and initial good will present an opportunity to navigate what was always going to be a rocky end-of-year path, the same power dynamics that brought the last speaker to his knees remain on a collision course with the realities of divided government.

If this resolution seems anticlimactic in the wake of such a dramatic ouster and shambolic interregnum, it speaks to the capriciousness of the entire exercise  and why we could easily see the cycle begin anew.
There are no moderate Republicans in the House of Representatives.

Oh, no doubt some members are privately appalled by the views of Mike Johnson, the new speaker. But what they think in the privacy of their own minds isnt important. What matters is what they do  and every single one of them went along with the selection of a radical extremist.

In fact, Johnson is more extreme than most people, I think even political reporters, fully realize.

Much of the reporting on Johnson has, understandably, focused on his role in the efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Let me say, by the way, that the widely used term election denial is a euphemism that softens and blurs what were really talking about. Trying to keep your party in power after it lost a free and fair election, without a shred of evidence of significant fraud, isnt just denial; its a betrayal of democracy.

There has also been considerable coverage of Johnsons right-wing social views, but Im not sure how many people grasp the depth of his intolerance. Johnson isnt just someone who wants to legalize discrimination against L.G.B.T.Q. Americans and ban gay marriage; hes on record as defending the criminalization of gay sex.

But Johnsons extremism, and that of the party that chose him, goes beyond rejecting democracy and trying to turn back the clock on decades of social progress. He has also espoused a startlingly reactionary economic agenda.
Every Republican present in the chamber voted on Wednesday for Mr. Johnson, reflecting the exhaustion of a party that has been ridiculed for incoherence since it deposed Mr. McCarthy for working with Democrats to fulfill the basic function of Congress, to fund the federal government. The choice of Mr. Johnson came after Mr. Trump helped engineer the result by torpedoing a more moderate candidate, setting the stage for the 2024 presidential election to unfold with someone in the speakers chair who has proved his willingness to go to great lengths to overturn a free and fair vote.

Its obvious why the former president was so supportive of the new speaker. Mr. Johnson was the most important architect of the Electoral College objections to Mr. Trumps loss in 2020, as a New York Times investigation found last year. He made unfounded arguments questioning the constitutionality of state voting rules; he agreed with Mr. Trump that the election was rigged, cast doubt on voting machines and supported a host of other baseless and unconstitutional theories that ultimately led to a violent insurrection at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Mr. Johnson now refuses to talk about his leading role in that shameful drama. When a reporter for ABC News tried to ask him about it on Tuesday night, he would not respond; his fellow Republicans booed the question, and one yelled at the reporter to shut up. Such questions cannot be dismissed when Mr. Trump is the leading candidate for the Republican presidential nomination. Though changes in the law and Democratic control of the Senate make it much harder for the House of Representatives to impede certification of the vote, the American public deserves a speaker of the House who will uphold the will of the people, not someone willing to bend the rules of an election for his side.

More immediately, while his election as speaker will make it possible for the House to continue functioning, it is not clear that Mr. Johnson is committed to the work of actually governing. At the end of September, he voted against the stopgap spending measure negotiated by Mr. McCarthy that prevented a government shutdown. That bill was an important litmus test; Mr. McCarthy brought it to a vote and got it passed with bipartisan support, over the objections of Mr. Trump, leading to his downfall as speaker. Two other Republican speaker candidates, Tom Emmer and Steve Scalise, also voted for it  and were also vetoed by the extreme right.

Mr. Johnson now says he would support another stopgap to give the House time to pass drastic spending cuts. That promise may have won over the Republicans who blocked the candidacy of another extremist, Jim Jordan, last week. But Mr. Johnsons voting record so far leaves little doubt that he prefers the performance of taking positions to actual lawmaking.
If media attention is in short supply, so too are munitions. Mr. Biden has vowed that the United States can support both Israels and Ukraines security needs, and is asking Congress for $105 billion in emergency funding to cover them. But Israel may eventually need weapons that are now running short in Ukraine, including armed drones and artillery rounds. Trapped in a war of attrition of its own making, Russia must be relishing the appearance of a new and demanding conflict for the United States, draining the strength of its adversaries.

Whats more, the war in Gaza threatens to postpone  if not derail  the Biden administrations efforts to normalize relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Even before this month, Washington had the herculean task of reconciling the parties disparate demands related to U.S. security guarantees, a Saudi civilian nuclear program and the fate of the Palestinians. The new cycle of violence now threatens the initiative altogether.

That would please officials in Moscow, who have always viewed the Abraham Accords, a set of deals between Israel and several Arab states struck in 2020 that paved the way for the Saudi normalization process, as an American project that sidelines Russia. Its faltering offers Russia more than just the sheer pleasure of seeing America struggle. Moscow has its own designs for nuclear cooperation with Saudi Arabia and also hopes to thwart the maturing of an Arab-Israeli defense partnership against Iran, an increasingly close Russian partner.

But Russias biggest gain may come in the court of global opinion. Moscows messaging on the conflict  the Kremlin has refused to call the attack on Oct. 7 terrorism and blamed the escalation on Western policy mistakes  aligns Russia with public sentiment across much of the Middle East. Silhouetted behind platitudes about peace, calls for the protection of all civilians and acknowledgments of Israels right to self-defense are hints of a pro-Palestinian position. In Russian media coverage, the display of Palestinian suffering in Gaza has taken center stage and Russian officials have spotlighted humanitarian concerns while avoiding any direct censure of Hamas. Moscows affinity for the Palestinian cause is not new, but the Kremlin has become more explicit about it.

Yet Russian aspirations go beyond the Middle East. Styling itself as David to the Western Goliath, Russia has framed its war against Ukraine as an anticolonial fight to end the Wests global dominance  tapping into powerful grievances held across the developing world about Western arrogance and hypocrisy. The Kremlins response to the war in Gaza, putting distance between itself and Washingtons unequivocal pro-Israel stance, is designed to exploit those feelings further. For Russia, increasing disillusion with the West and even winning over new sympathizers for its challenge to the global order would be advances worth the risk of upsetting Israel. That such a position plays into tensions in Europe is a pleasing byproduct.
For biologists, menopause is baffling. If natural selection favors genes that produce more descendants, why dont women remain fertile their entire lives? Whats the evolutionary benefit of living for so many years without having more babies?

The mystery has only deepened as scientists have looked for menopause in mammals in the wild and found clear evidence of it only in a few species of whales. It is very, very rare, said Kevin Langergraber, a primatologist at Arizona State University.

That rarity has led some researchers to argue that menopause played a crucial part in the evolution of humans. Perhaps, they proposed, it was a crucial ingredient in raising children whose big brains need lots of time  and parental support  to fully develop.

But a study published on Thursday by Dr. Langergraber and his colleagues challenges this view. After decades of observations in a rainforest in Uganda, they discovered that some chimpanzees go through menopause, too.
The Danish jeweler Sophie Bille Brahe is known for her delicate designs featuring diamonds and pearls set in inventive combinations that often seem to float above the body. Now shes lending her diaphanous aesthetic to glass, working with craftspeople on the island of Murano, in Venice, to create a 10-piece collection of limited-edition vases launching Oct. 25. Spherical iridescent vases in pink and cream recall the freshwater pearls Bille Brahe uses in her jewelry designs, while others reference spiraling shell shapes, a motif she has returned to frequently, most memorably in a row of graduating diamonds for her Escargot ring.

Bille Brahe jokes that it took all her powers of diplomacy to coax the Venetian artisans into reviving the glazes and techniques she had come across while inspecting archival designs in the family-run Venice workshop where the pieces were ultimately made. The artisans kept blowing these shapes that were super old-school Murano, which is lovely, but its just not me, she recalls. It took her four days, for instance, to persuade a glassblower to try a specific shade of gumdrop pink. It reminded me of when I trained as a goldsmith. There are rules, you have to follow the rules, she says. When they knew that I understood the rules, then they were ready to change. Next on her list? I would love to do chandeliers. From $315, sophiebillebrahe.com.

Wear This

A Brazilian Jewelers Nature-Inspired Pieces, on View at Sothebys in New York
For years, Google watched with increasing concern as Apple improved its search technology, not knowing whether its longtime partner and sometimes competitor would eventually build its own search engine.

Those fears ratcheted up in 2021, when Google paid Apple around $18 billion to keep Googles search engine the default selection on iPhones, according to two people with knowledge of the partnership, who were not authorized to discuss it publicly. The same year, Apples iPhone search tool, Spotlight, began showing users richer web results like those they could have found on Google.

Google quietly planned to put a lid on Apples search ambitions. The company looked for ways to undercut Spotlight by producing its own version for iPhones and to persuade more iPhone users to use Googles Chrome web browser instead of Apples Safari browser, according to internal Google documents reviewed by The New York Times. At the same time, Google studied how to pry open Apples control of the iPhone by leveraging a new European law intended to help small companies compete with Big Tech.

Googles anti-Apple plan illustrated the importance that its executives placed on maintaining dominance in the search business. It also provides insight into the companys complex relationship with Apple, a competitor in consumer gadgets and software that has been an instrumental partner in Googles mobile ads business for more than a decade.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan and the British Council signed a protocol of intent between the two organizations to continue cooperation in the field of education and teaching English, paying special attention to the development of English teachers, Trend reports.

The relevant document was signed within the framework of the event dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the British Council's activities in Azerbaijan.

The British Council's Regional Director for Europe, Joanna Burke, highlighted the successful implementation of the programs in cooperation with both local and international partners.

"These programs have provided platforms for self-expression and collaboration, allowing us to share valuable experience gained in the UK with a wider audience. Our anniversary is a special occasion to celebrate the strong relations that we have built in Azerbaijan. We would like to express our gratitude for these 30 years of successful partnership and look forward to another 30 years of cooperation," Burke said.

Nargiz Hajiyeva, Director of the British Council for Azerbaijan, noted that the British Council plays a central role in supporting Azerbaijan with high-quality and inclusive English language teaching, and also closely cooperates with the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan.

"The Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan is a long-standing partner of the British Council, and for many years we have contributed to positive changes in the English language and education sector of the country. I am pleased to share with you that just before this solemn reception, we signed a protocol of intent between the two organizations to continue our cooperation in the field of English language and education, paying special attention to the development of English language teachers," Hajiyeva said.

She also stressed that Azerbaijan's cooperation with the British Council makes it possible to have a positive impact on thousands of students, teachers, scientists and politicians, helping them acquire the skills necessary to transform life and build a better world.

The British Council has been operating in Azerbaijan since 1993, creating opportunities and establishing ties with the UK. The British Council has sought to promote mutual understanding and trust between the peoples of Azerbaijan and the UK since the beginning of its activities in the countries.

The British Council is an international organization of the UK aimed at the development of cultural ties and education. The organization is active in more than 200 countries and has offices in more than 100 countries around the world.
As I constantly remind my team, nobody wakes up every morning and says I have to run a Google query, Dr. Raghavan said. Instead, he said, they go to the best service for their particular needs.

Dr. Raghavan, 63, has spent more than 11 years at Google, with stints running its applications and ads operations. In 2020, he assumed control of the companys search engine and related businesses, including Google Maps and Assistant as well as commerce products. He had previously devoted much of his career to research, leading Yahoo Labs and working at IBM Research for 14 years.

Dr. Raghavan said that Googles success was not set in stone, and that it faced many challenges in trying to retain its users, especially among younger people. Dr. Raghavan cited research that found that Americans spend about 23 minutes a day surfing the web, versus almost four hours using applications. And he highlighted TikToks youth appeal, as well as user research that found that where young people go, older people follow.

To drive the point home, Dr. Raghavan said he was unfortunately aware of a derogatory nickname for his employer among young people: Grandpa Google knows the answers and will help you with homework, but when it comes to interesting things, they like to start elsewhere, he said.

Joshua Hafenbrack, a lawyer for the Justice Department, sought to undercut Dr. Raghavans insistence that Google was under threat from Amazon, during a cross-examination. He referred to a 2019 competitive analysis conducted by Google that found the company had not seen an impact on its search or shopping revenue among members of loyalty programs like Amazon Prime. These types of loyalty members tend to do more searches on Google, not less, he said.
An article that appeared in August on an international news outlet, Pressenza, recycled a false Russian claim that the West was looting religious relics and art from a monastery in Ukraines capital, Kyiv, one of the holiest sites in Russian Orthodoxy.

The article stands out, U.S. officials said, not because of what it claimed  but because of its source and intended audience.

State Department officials have linked the article to what they describe as a covert information operation to spread Russia propaganda in Central and South America by producing articles that appear to originate with local media organizations, not the Russian government.

The operation is nascent, but the departments Global Engagement Center is disclosing the influence campaign in hopes of blunting its effect in a region where Russia has sought to discredit the United States and erode international support for Ukraine.
F. Scott Fitzgeralds The Great Gatsby requires no critical endorsement. His slim 1925 novel still takes up permanent residence in the book bags of students across the nation. Often it is crushed under tomes of greater size, but what Gatsby, lacks in length it makes up for in heart, opulence and tragedy. A new musical adaptation trades Fitzgeralds subtle blend for a blunter approach.

The Great Gatsby, now playing at the Paper Mill Playhouse in Millburn, N.J., replicates its literary prototype. Jay Gatsby (Jeremy Jordan) is the elusive seigneur of a mansion in West Egg, a fictional Long Island town. His newfound wealth fronts lavish parties that brim with bubbly and gossip. He is satisfied by none of it.

What Gatsby most craves is Daisy (Eva Noblezada), a product of old money who lives across Manhasset Bay with her adulterer of a husband, Tom Buchanan (John Zdrojeski). Gatsby hatches a plan to have Daisys new-to-New York cousin Nick Carraway (Noah J. Ricketts) move in next door to him, with the intent to lure Daisy. But the scheme results in calamity.

Though the musical remains largely faithful to that plot, Kait Kerrigan, the book writer, takes liberties with the point of view. Her Nick is no neutral narrator ransacking his memories, but a morally upright man who condemns both Gatsbys initial pursuit of Daisy and the flagrant behavior of other characters. While others indulge in whiskey and sex, Nick sings desperately about wanting to go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
We dream big, says a no-nonsense film executive early in Lyonesse, the starry, if overstuffed, new play that opened Wednesday night at the Harold Pinter Theater, in London. And so, too, does this West End debut from Penelope Skinner, a British playwright whose works have long enlivened small theaters on both sides of the Atlantic.

The themes arrive thick and fast across nearly three hours: #MeToo, cancel culture, the tyranny of men and many others. But not even Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas, the productions commercial draws, can transform the scattershot material into a coherent whole.

It takes courage to open a new play in the West End without a previous run somewhere else, but Lyonesse whimpers where it should roar. You emerge less enlightened than bewildered at the inability of so much talent  including the shows usually excellent director, Ian Rickson  to come up with something better.

James shoulders the bulk of the narrative, playing Kate, an eager-beaver movie exec whose habit of continually apologizing doesnt inspire confidence in her judgment.
Before a gunman in Maine, who has yet to be captured, killed 18 people and wounded 13 more in Lewiston on Wednesday night, there had been seven mass shootings in the United States this year, with the most recent one occurring in mid-July. But the shooting in Maine is the countrys deadliest of the year.

By The New York Timess reckoning, a mass shooting has occurred when four or more people  not including the shooter  have been killed by gunfire in a public place, and no other crime is involved. Our count of mass shootings is based on data from both the Gun Violence Archive and the Violence Project. We use data from both sources in order to make sure our database is as current and comprehensive as possible.
Abortion has been a losing issue at the polls for Republicans across the country since the Supreme Courts decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. But now in Virginia, which holds elections in early November, the party thinks it has hit upon a formula to stop the electoral drubbings.

Legislative races across the state will offer a decisive test of a strategy led by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who has united Republicans behind a high-profile campaign in support of a ban on abortion after 15 weeks with exceptions for rape, incest and the life of the mother. The party calls it a common sense position, in contrast to Democrats, who it says support no limits.

The strategy is meant to defuse Republicans image as abortion extremists, which led to losses in last years midterms and threatens further defeats next month in an Ohio referendum and the Kentucky governors race.

The approach is similar to one being pursued by Republican Senate candidates in battleground states like Arizona, Pennsylvania and Michigan, where the party has been open to some exceptions, a stance that research shows is more popular than an outright ban.
Blake Masters, a Republican who lost his U.S. Senate campaign in Arizona last year, announced on Thursday that he would run to represent the states Eighth Congressional District  ending speculation that he would pursue a second Senate run in 2024.

Im running for Congress, to fight for Arizonas 8th, Mr. Masters wrote on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. Biden has failed. We need Trump back. We need to stop inflation, Build the Wall, avoid WW3, and secure Arizonas water future. We need to fight for our families.

Representative Debbie Lesko, a Republican, has represented the district, in the Phoenix suburbs, since 2018. Ms. Lesko announced this month that she would not seek re-election.

Also this month, Kari Lake, a former news anchor who ran for governor in Arizona last year, declared that she would run for the seat held by Senator Kyrsten Sinema.
Black voters were a driving force in that transformation, making up the highest share of growth in the Georgia electorate, which increased by 1.9 million voters between 2000 and 2019, a Pew Research Center analysis found.

In the legal challenges to the maps, critics argued that the size of the Black electorate in the state warranted at least one additional majority-Black district in Congress, as well as additional majority-Black districts in the State House of Representatives.

Plaintiffs in the challenges include Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, the nations oldest Black fraternity, which has thousands of members in Georgia, and the African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of the oldest Protestant denominations founded by Black people, with hundreds of congregations in Georgia.

It is unfortunate that, decades after the Civil Rights Movement, we still need to defend and promote the right for the African American community to vote, Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, the presiding prelate for Georgia, said in a statement on Thursday.

Judge Jones, who was appointed to the federal bench in 2011 by President Barack Obama, had allowed the challenged maps to go into effect in 2022, calling it a difficult decision that the court did not make lightly. That decision was one of several that found it was too close to that years elections to implement new maps.
In a 7,000-word essay for Foreign Affairs magazine published this week, Jake Sullivan, President Bidens national security adviser, tried to sum up the state of the Middle East.

Although the Middle East remains beset with perennial challenges, he wrote in the original version of the essay, the region is quieter than it has been for decades.

While noting that challenges remained, including a tense situation between Israelis and Palestinians and the threat from Iran, he wrote that in the face of serious frictions, we have de-escalated crises in Gaza.

Mr. Sullivans assertions did not age well.

Just five days after his article was sent to print on Oct. 2, Hamas staged a devastating terror attack inside Israel, killing at least 1,400 Israelis and taking hundreds of people hostage. Israels retaliatory airstrikes against Gaza, which is controlled by Hamas, have killed thousands of people and led to a humanitarian crisis.

Nobody can be expected to predict the future, but the essay offers a rare insight into how the United States misread an explosive situation in the Middle East. In the end, all of the diplomacy, intelligence sharing, check-ins and visits did not anticipate the worst breach of Israeli defenses in half a century.

Before the article was posted online, Foreign Affairs asked Mr. Sullivan to update it to reflect the Hamas attack. The online version scrubbed Mr. Sullivans quieter sentence, as well as his assertion that the Biden administration had de-escalated crises in Gaza. (An editors note included a pdf of the original essay, which appears in the November/December 2023 issue.)

Mr. Sullivan had made similar public comments to those in his essay.

On Sept. 29, he shared his assessment with some of the nations foreign policy, political and media circles: The Middle East region is quieter today than it has been in two decades, Mr. Sullivan told attendees at a festival held by The Atlantic, ticking through a list of examples that included a lengthy truce in Yemen and a cessation of attacks on U.S. troops by Iran-backed militias. The Hamas attack happened several days later.

The presidents critics have pounced. A fund-raising email sent to supporters by the Trump campaign on Wednesday chastised Bidens Delusional National Security Adviser with a link to a story about Mr. Sullivans comments. Conservative media publications have followed suit.

Not all of Mr. Sullivans critics are on the right.

Brett Bruen, who served as director of global engagement in the Obama White House, said Mr. Sullivan was driven by a myopic focus on some diplomatic deliverable over a real strategy.

Jakes brilliant, but hes never spent any significant amount of time in any of these places, said Mr. Bruen, who called for Mr. Sullivans firing after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, when 13 U.S. service members and scores of Afghans were killed.

Still, he praised Mr. Sullivan, an alumnus of the Obama administration and a former close adviser to Hillary Clinton, as a foreign policy talent who helped lead an impressive U.S. response to the attack on Israeli civilians.

As for Mr. Bidens experience in the region, Mr. Bruen said experience can also be a liability when youre looking at the world the way it was a couple of decades ago, not the way it is now.

He added: And Jake doesnt disabuse him of that.

On Thursday, several officials in the Biden administration pushed back on the idea that Mr. Sullivan was offering a lasting view of his thoughts on the Middle East. Instead, they said, Mr. Sullivan was offering a snapshot of a region that appeared calm after years of war, regime changes and refugee crises.

One senior administration official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to describe the administrations process in the aftermath of the attacks, said that no expert could have predicted that Hamas would invade Israel, overrun defense forces, kill civilians and take hundreds hostage.

Adrienne Watson, a spokeswoman for the National Security Council, said in an email that the social media criticism swirling around one sentence uttered (or written) by Mr. Sullivan amounts to a lazy take.

She pointed out that Mr. Sullivan had logged countless hours on the issue, including by meeting with Ron Dermer, Israels minister of strategic affairs, two weeks before submitting the Foreign Affairs essay. Mr. Sullivan, she and other officials noted, traveled to Israel and to the West Bank earlier this year to work on a major Palestinian component of the normalization process, which was also an emphasis of his travel to Saudi Arabia in August.

While the world has changed  as it often does  the past two weeks only underscored the importance of building on the approach to the region that we already had, like building relationships that can be relied upon to solve this crisis or the next one, Ms. Watson wrote.

Mr. Sullivan declined to comment for this article.

But his supporters noted an important caveat toward the end of both versions of his essay, which is titled The Sources of American Power  apparently an allusion to an oft-cited Foreign Affairs essay, The Sources of Soviet Conduct, which was written in 1947 at the start of the Cold War.

The United States has been surprised in the past, Mr. Sullivan wrote, noting the Cuban missile crisis in 1962 and Iraqs invasion of Kuwait in 1990. And, he added, it will likely be surprised in the future, no matter how hard the government works to anticipate what is coming.

Edward Wong contributed reporting.
Ever since Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana assumed office on Wednesday, a question has been on Democrats minds: Could the elevation of Mr. Johnson, who worked in league with former President Donald J. Trump in trying to undermine the 2020 election results, allow him to succeed in 2024 where he failed the last time?

The speakership, which is second in line to the presidency, comes with broad powers over the functioning of the House. And Mr. Johnson, a constitutional lawyer whose stature in his party has grown with his election to the top post, could try again to interfere. But there are several reasons that Mr. Johnsons new job alone would not allow him special powers to overturn the will of the voters unilaterally.

Heres how it works.

The vice president, not the speaker, presides over Congresss counting of electoral votes.

When Mr. Trump was attempting to overturn the results of the 2020 election, his pressure campaign focused on his own vice president, Mike Pence, who was presiding over the joint session of Congress on Jan. 6, 2021, to count the electoral votes. Mr. Trump encouraged Mr. Pence to throw out legitimate votes in favor of false slates of electors, a move Mr. Pence said was unconstitutional.

Vice President Kamala Harris is in line to preside over the joint session on Jan. 6, 2025, when Congress will meet in a joint session to certify the results of the 2024 election. The speaker has no special role in the proceedings.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Statements by the French Minister of Culture related to cultural heritage of Azerbaijans Karabakh is another predisposition and a biased approach by the French side, Spokesperson for the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Aykhan Hajizada, said in a statement, Trend reports.

Azerbaijan is very well aware of its obligations and importance of protection of all the cultural and historical monuments in its territories, and France, as a country who had confiscated the historical and cultural assets belonging to other nations, has no moral ground to raise such claims.

Claims about endangerment of cultural and historical monuments following the anti-terror measures of Azerbaijan has no ground, which was confirmed recently by two UN missions to the region.

Unfortunately, neither within its engagement as a mediator in the former Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict, nor as an influential country within the UNESCO, France has never raised concerns about almost complete destruction of historical, cultural and religious monuments by Armenia both in Azerbaijans territories and in Armenia.

Moreover, it was Azerbaijan who for almost 30 years has persistently appealed to the international organizations with calls to carry out assessment missions to the formerly occupied territories of Azerbaijan and Armenia about deliberate destruction, misappropriation, alteration of our cultural heritage, as well as illicit removal of cultural properties. Unfortunately, it was not possible due to Armenias obstructions. UNESCO itself has also confirmed this fact in its 2005 report.

The cultural heritage situated in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan, regardless of its origin, whether secular or religious, reflects the cultural diversity of the people of Azerbaijan, which Azerbaijan values and protects.

Once again, we call on the French side to put an end to interference into Azerbaijans internal affairs and from such provocative statements, the statement reads.
Speaker Mike Johnson, the little-known congressman from Louisiana who won the gavel on Wednesday, is deeply conservative on both fiscal and social issues, reflecting the G.O.P.s sharp lurch to the right.

Mr. Johnson, a lawyer, also played a leading role in former President Donald J. Trumps efforts to overturn the 2020 election, helping to push a lawsuit to throw out the results in four battleground states he lost and then offering members of Congress a legal argument upon which to justify their votes to invalidate the results.

He has a career rating of 92 percent from the American Conservative Union and 90 percent from Heritage Action for America.

Heres where he stands on six key issues.

Government funding

Mr. Johnson is a fiscal conservative who believes Congress has a moral and constitutional duty to balance the budget, lower spending and pursue continued pro-growth tax reforms and permanent tax reductions, according to his website.
Newly installed Speaker Mike Johnson is confronting a multitude of crises during his first days in office, chief among them a deadline just weeks away to avert a government shutdown and an urgent request from President Biden for a behemoth $105 billion aid bill for Israel and Ukraine.

They are two of the issues that have most bitterly divided the House Republican conference and helped lead to the ouster of his predecessor. Now it falls to Mr. Johnson, a fourth-term congressman who has never served in a top leadership position before, to try to keep his anti-spending party united and the government open  all in a matter of weeks.

The previous speaker, Kevin McCarthy, found it impossible to corral recalcitrant Republicans to pass legislation to keep federal funding flowing and prevent a politically and economically damaging shutdown. At the last moment, he turned to Democrats to push through a bill to extend the deadline through Nov. 17, a move that prompted hard-right Republicans to force him out.

Mr. Johnson was among a majority of Republicans who opposed that stopgap spending bill. He has also opposed continued aid for Ukraine for its war against Russian aggression, and he said on Wednesday that he wanted to see conditions imposed on additional U.S. aid.

As he sought the speakership in recent days, Mr. Johnson has also suggested that he would back a temporary measure to keep government funding flowing through January or April to allow more time to pass all 12 individual annual spending bills, a key demand of the hard right. But he has not said what spending levels he would favor.

In the days leading up to the government shutdown deadline in September, Mr. McCarthy put forward a stopgap measure that severely slashed spending. Twenty-one conservative lawmakers opposed it, tanking the bill and declaring that they would not vote for a temporary funding measure under any circumstances.

Representative Ralph Norman of South Carolina, a member of the Freedom Caucus, suggested that the hard-right flank of the party would be inclined to give Mr. Johnson more leeway on spending than they gave Mr. McCarthy because they trust his conservative bona fides.

He doesnt start from the position of way up and go up, Mr. Norman said of Mr. Johnson and federal spending. He starts from the position of up and goes down.

The problems with McCarthy, he added, started with one word: trustworthy.

Yet Mr. Norman also said he wanted to see a temporary spending bill that slashed spending to prepandemic levels  something that could never pass the Democratic-controlled Senate or be signed by Mr. Biden. That would violate the agreement Mr. McCarthy struck in June with the president to suspend the debt ceiling and cap federal spending.

Extremist funding bills that make cuts way below the bipartisan June agreement will not fly, said Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader. If Speaker Johnson tries to send those cuts over here, theyre not going to happen. Theyll be dead on arrival. All they will do is waste more time at a moment when every day counts.

Mr. Schumer continued: I told Speaker Johnson the exact same thing I told Speaker McCarthy: In a divided government, the only way well fund the government or pass supplemental is bipartisanship.

Mr. Johnson will face another test as Congress considers the Biden administrations funding request for Israel and Ukraine  a $105 billion package that could end up getting folded into a stopgap funding measure. The Senate, where the measure is far more popular, is holding a hearing on the aid package next week, and Mr. Johnson was at the White House on Thursday to be briefed on it.

In September, when lawmakers were racing to try to avoid a government shutdown, a bipartisan Senate stopgap plan included $6 billion for Ukraine. But Mr. McCarthy stripped the aid from his plan, recognizing the sharp decline in Republican support for sending more federal dollars to Kyiv. Democrats swallowed the plan in the interest of keeping the government open, arguing that Congress would return to the issue and pass a larger aid package later in the year.

It is not clear how Mr. Johnson, who has voted repeatedly against sending additional aid to Ukraine, plans to handle the emergency spending request. He has expressed strong support for aiding Israel in its fight against Hamas.

And asked by a reporter on Wednesday night if he supported sending additional aid to Ukraine, Mr. Johnson replied, We all do.

But he added that his backing would not be absolute. Were going to have conditions on that, Mr. Johnson said. We want accountability and we want objectives that are clear from the White House.

The hard-right members of his party have already declared the measure dead on arrival.

For the House GOP under Speaker Mike Johnson this is an obvious HARD NO, Representative Chip Roy of Texas, an influential anti-spending conservative, wrote on social media. We will not join Israel and Ukraine, we will not throw money at the border, & all supplementals must be paid for  as a starter. Game on.

Luke Broadwater and Carl Hulse contributed reporting.
For years, the annual meeting of the Republican Jewish Coalition has been a routine stop on the presidential primary trail, an opportunity for would-be presidents to demonstrate their foreign-policy credentials while plying donors with requisite one-liners.

But nothing is routine this time.

With an escalating conflict in Israel that threatens to spread across the region and a rise in tensions and antisemitism in the United States, the meeting will be like none of the others in the organizations decades-long history. When Republican officials, lawmakers and candidates gather in Las Vegas this weekend, they will come together at a moment of unique peril for Israel and, many attendees believe, for American Jewry.

Security has been tightened and seats added to accommodate a wave of new attendees who decided to come after the Oct. 7 attacks. An empty Shabbat table will sit in the middle of the room, honoring the more than 200 people being held hostage in Gaza. Along with the American national anthem, attendees will sing Hatikvah, the Israeli national anthem, and offer special prayers for those who are missing and wounded.

And while the overall tone will be subdued, members of the organization said they expected nothing short of full-throated, unequivocal support for Israel and the protection of Jews in America from the 2024 Republican field.

I would venture half the room, if not more than half, has relatives who are in the I.D.F., said Ari Fleischer, a former press secretary under President George W. Bush and a member of the Republican Jewish Coalitions board, referring to the Israel Defense Forces. They dont want to see a single weak knee, elbow or joint. They want to see support for a nation thats in trauma against the modern-day equivalent of Nazism.

All eight major candidates running for the Republican nomination, including the dominant front-runner, Donald J. Trump, are expected to attend, a reflection of how the attacks have thrust foreign policy into the center of American politics. On Wednesday, the House passed a resolution vowing to give the Israeli government whatever security assistance it needs, the first legislation taken up by the new speaker, Mike Johnson, Republican of Louisiana.
From around the world, they come to the halls of power in Washington seeking one thing: a commitment from the American government to protect their countries in a time of rising geopolitical crises.

In recent months, leaders and diplomats from a growing number of nations have signed security pacts with the United States, upgraded military ties and weapons purchases or have begun negotiating potential new defense treaties and arrangements.

The countries include Ukraine, at war with Russia; Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, eager to stave off Iran; and Japan, South Korea, Australia and the Philippines, anxious about China and North Koreas military ambitions. Frightened by Russias aggression, Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in April, while Sweden is on the brink of membership.

The Biden administration is surging munitions to Israel for airstrikes in Gaza and has sent two aircraft carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean. Israel and the United States have a series of agreements on military aid.

The push around the world for the United States to be all things to all partners in terms of defense is stronger than at any time since the end of the Cold War. But many Americans are resisting having their nation play that role, at least partly because of the political impact of the disastrous U.S. wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

And critics say the devastating attacks by Hamas on Oct. 7 that killed about 1,400 Israelis underscore the fact that defense agreements do not create a real foundation for peace and deterrence.

That opposition to the United States being what President Biden and other U.S. officials call the indispensable nation  they mean the security guarantor around the world  has some roots in traditional liberal antiwar values, but it is also tied to surprising ideological shifts of recent years. Many Republican voters, once proponents of a Cold War and antiterrorism global military footprint, now support isolationist and pro-Russia politicians, notably former President Donald J. Trump.

Some Republican lawmakers are now trying to halt aid to Ukraine, and progressive Democrats have denounced the ongoing Israeli airstrikes that have killed thousands of Palestinians. All of that sets up a potential battle over a new White House request for $105 billion of military aid that would go mostly to Ukraine and Israel.
From around the world, they come to the halls of power in Washington seeking one thing: a commitment from the American government to protect their countries in a time of rising geopolitical crises.

In recent months, leaders and diplomats from a growing number of nations have signed security pacts with the United States, upgraded military ties and weapons purchases or have begun negotiating potential new defense treaties and arrangements.

The countries include Ukraine, at war with Russia; Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, eager to stave off Iran; and Japan, South Korea, Australia and the Philippines, anxious about China and North Koreas military ambitions. Frightened by Russias aggression, Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization in April, while Sweden is on the brink of membership.

The Biden administration is surging munitions to Israel for airstrikes in Gaza and has sent two aircraft carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean. Israel and the United States have a series of agreements on military aid.
A man suspected of killing a Maryland judge outside his home last week was found dead on Thursday morning, ending a weeklong manhunt, the local authorities said.

The suspect, Pedro Argote, 49, was wanted for murder in the death of Judge Andrew Wilkinson of the Maryland Circuit Courts, the Washington County Sheriffs Office in Maryland said in a statement.

Mr. Argote was found during an expanded evidentiary search around Williamsport, Md., less than 10 miles from the states northern border. His body was discovered in a heavily wooded area.

It was not immediately clear how Mr. Argote had died. At a news conference on Thursday, Sheriff Brian K. Albert of Washington County said that Mr. Argotes remains would be taken to the medical examiners office for an autopsy.
In a direct challenge to federal power over immigration, the Texas House on Thursday approved the creation of a state-level crime for entering the country from Mexico between ports of entry, allowing local police agencies to arrest and jail unauthorized migrants or order them back to Mexico.

The legislation had been called for by Gov. Greg Abbott in what would be a sharp escalation of his multibillion-dollar border security program, known as Operation Lone Star. The Texas House also approved an additional $1.5 billion for the state to use to construct its own barriers near the international boundary.

The arrest measure now returns to the Senate, which has already approved its own version, and then head to Mr. Abbotts desk for his signature.

It is a humane, logical and efficient approach, Representative David Spiller, a Republican from west of Fort Worth, said in introducing his arrest bill before the vote. There is nothing unfair about ordering someone back from where they came if they arrived here illegally.
As Republican candidates and their supporters increasingly focus on specious claims of rampant voter fraud, a federal trial starting in Georgia on Thursday will examine whether a key campaign to unmask illegal voters in 2020 actually aimed to intimidate legal ones.

The outcome could have implications for conservative election integrity organizations that are widely expected to ramp up antifraud efforts during next years general election. The trial also could clarify the reach of an important section of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, the historic civil-rights law that the Supreme Court has steadily pared back over the last decade.

That question is serious enough that the Department of Justice has filed a brief in the case and will defend the governments view of the acts scope at the trial.

The campaign, mounted in December 2020 by a right-wing group called True the Vote, filed challenges with local election officials to the eligibility of some 250,000 registered Georgia voters. The group also offered bounties from a $1 million reward fund for evidence of election malfeasance and sought to recruit citizen monitors to patrol polls and ballot drop-off locations.
Sitting in his empty cab on Thursday as another taxi driver pushed it from behind, Miguel Angel Dorantes surveyed the scene of devastation left by the most powerful hurricane to hit the Pacific coast of Mexico, wondering if he would be able to reach home. Mudslides blocked off his hillside house in Acapulco. Basic goods were scarce because of aggressive looting following the storm.

We have no gas, no water, no food, he said, as people ran past his car and other gridlocked vehicles, carrying bottles of water, bags of beans and anything else from nearby stores. Everything has been looted. Theres nothing to take anymore.

The extent of the destruction left by Hurricane Otis, which turned a once popular tourist destination into a scene of chaos, only started to come into view that morning. More than two dozen people were killed and three were missing after the storm made landfall in the early hours of Wednesday with an intensity that shocked forecasters and government officials.

Thousands of military officers, medical teams and government officials confronted a devastated Guerrero State on Thursday. Communication and power systems remained largely off in much of the state, making the scope of the hurricanes toll difficult to ascertain.
Canadas largest airline, Air Canada, has apologized to a British lawmaker, Mohammad Yasin, after lawmakers said Mr. Yasin was singled out for questioning because of his name and background on a recent official trip to the country.

Pablo Rodriguez, the Canadian transport minister, told reporters in Ottawa on Wednesday that his office had contacted the airline about the screening. We called Air Canada and Air Canada apologized, Mr. Rodriguez said, and apologizing was the right thing to do.

Mr. Yasin, a member of Parliament for the Labour Party, has represented the constituency of Bedford in eastern England since 2017. While leaving for a trip to Canada with other lawmakers last week, he said, he was questioned vigorously at Heathrow Airport near London.

Details of the questioning emerged on Monday when one of Mr. Yasins colleagues, Clive Betts, said in remarks to Parliament that Mr. Yasin was the only lawmaker in the group delayed for questioning by officials who they believed worked for Air Canada and the Canadian government.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. In accordance with the instruction of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, the return of former internally displaced persons to the restored Aghali village of Zangilan district continue, Trend reports.

At this stage, another 17 families (95 people) moved to the Aghali village.

The resettled families will settle in the houses where they once lived in Aghali village, which were restored or rebuilt on the basis of instructions from the head of state after the end of the Armenian occupation. Aghali residents thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for their comprehensive care, expressed gratitude to the Victorious Azerbaijani Army, which liberated the lands from occupation.

Thus, until today, a permanent settlement in the Aghali village has been provided for 150 families - 744 people.
The welfare society is fundamentally a community, which is based on a mutual trust that we all contribute, Denmarks prime minister, Mette Frederiksen, said in March at a summit of the countrys municipalities. All that is being seriously challenged by parallel societies.

The law mandates that in neighborhoods where at least half of the population is of non-Western origin or descent, and where at least two of the following characteristics exist  low income, low education, high unemployment or a high percentage of residents who have had criminal convictions  the share of social housing needs to be reduced to no more than 40 percent by 2030.

That means more than 4,000 public housing units will need to be emptied or torn down. At least 430 already have been demolished.

The decision of which housing remains public will be made by local governments and housing associations. The association operating in Vollsmose said that it bases its decisions not so much on whether a building is dilapidated, but more on its location and whether it would do well on the open market. The residents displaced are offered alternative public housing options in other buildings or neighborhoods.

From the beginning, the programs targeting of communities largely based on the presence of non-Western immigrants or their descendants has attracted widespread criticism.
Moving through the neighborhood, Mr. Alus climbed atop a garden wall and shot a Hamas gunman several times in the head. It was the first time he had killed someone.

Next door, a fellow officer faced a similar confrontation. He shot and killed a gunman who was trying to enter the back door.

Videos captured fragments of the two shootings. Another video shows the terrorist that Mr. Alus killed, lying in a craggy backyard.

Minutes later, Mr. Alus said, he came upon a rabbi lying in the street, shot and injured. Gunfire continued to pop. A trained medic, Mr. Alus knew he could help the man. He also knew that the protocol was to stop the shooter first, then tend to the wounded. But as bullets peppered the ground, Mr. Alus said he dragged the rabbi by his belt into a nearby house and wrapped a towel around his injured leg.

Thats when he spotted a wounded soldier whose helmet had been pierced by a bullet. Were more soldiers on their way, Mr. Alus asked?

No, the soldier responded. I came from home.

I realized that we were on our own, Mr. Alus said. Like rabbits at a shooting range.

Escape From a Window

Michal Bilia, a Yemenite Jew, had gathered her sons and grandchildren for a Sabbath breakfast. She placed two challahs on the dining room table.

They never got the chance to break bread.

Gunfire crackled outside, sending the family scrambling upstairs. Windows shattered. With nowhere to hide, they climbed through a window to the roof. Video shows the frantic escape, as children hurried for safety and adults passed a month-old baby through the window, all amid the pop of gunfire.

As Ms. Bilia escaped, she saw a gunman in the yard below and warned her 28-year-old son, Ariel, who was still indoors: Hes out there. Get inside!

She then scurried along the roof to join her family beneath her neighbors solar panels. Ariel tried to follow. Video footage shows that he made it halfway out of the window before slumping onto the roof, dead.
Slovakia, a small Eastern European nation that has been in the vanguard of sending arms to Ukraine, says it is halting all military aid to its embattled neighbor, a policy shift that is unlikely to change the balance of forces on the battlefield but that delivers a symbolic blow to Kyiv at a time of growing fatigue in parts of Europe after 20 months of war.

Slovakias newly appointed prime minister, Robert Fico, announced on Thursday in Bratislava, the Slovak capital, that while he supported comprehensive nonmilitary aid to Ukraine in its war against Russia, I will be supporting zero military aid to Ukraine.

That would make Slovakia the first among those countries that have sent weapons to Kyiv since the war broke out to say it would stop. Slovakias commercial defense contracts with Ukraine for Slovak-made artillery and other defense systems, however, are expected to continue.

Mr. Fico, who made his remarks to a parliamentary committee on European Union affairs, did not say whether Slovakia, which shares a border with Ukraine and has rail and road links to the country, would continue to serve as a transit route for weapons supplied by other Western countries. Poland has been the main transit country for such shipments, but Slovakia has also been used to deliver weapons from the Czech Republic and some other countries.
Russian drone strikes near a nuclear power plant in western Ukraine this week have revived anxiety among Ukrainian officials and civilians over one of the most oppressive hardships of the war: a winter assault on their nations energy grid.

The strikes on Wednesday, which landed near the Khmelnytsky nuclear facility, drew an angry response from President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine, who said it was highly likely that the power plant was the target. They also prompted another warning from the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog agency about the precarious nuclear safety situation in Ukraine.

Mr. Zelensky vowed on Wednesday night that Ukraine would hit back at targets inside Russia if Moscow tried once again to plunge his nation into cold and darkness.

This year we will not only defend ourselves but also respond, he said.

Unlike a year ago, Kyiv now has a growing fleet of long-range drones and has demonstrated an ability to hit military targets deep inside Russia.
The delegation of the Palestinian military group was led by Moussa Abu Marzouk, a senior Hamas official, who met with Mikhail Bogdanov, the Russian deputy foreign minister, Hamas said in a statement.

The two sides have discussed the release of foreign hostages from the Gaza Strip, the Russian foreign ministry said, according to RIA Novosti, a Russian state news agency. They also discussed the evacuation of Russians and other foreigners from the region. In its statement, Hamas praised Mr. Putins position on the conflict and the active efforts of Russian diplomacy.

Since Hamass terrorist attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, Russia has kept a conspicuous distance from the conflict. Days after, in his first comments about the war, Mr. Putin called it a clear example of the United States failed policy in the Middle East.

In subsequent comments, Mr. Putin continued to accuse the United States of monopolizing the efforts to resolve the conflict and of neglecting the fundamental political issues that are preventing its resolution. He also called for an immediate cease-fire and the resumption of talks in the framework of the U.N.-approved two-state solution to the conflict.

But as the United States engaged in an intense flurry of talks with regional powers, presenting itself as the main power broker in the Middle East, Russia risked its assumed role as one of the major international powers with enough clout to be relevant in all major crises.

Recently, Russia has been trying to catch up. Last week, Mr. Putin called all major leaders in the region, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel. Mr. Bogdanov, the Russian deputy foreign minister, met with Hamas leadership in Qatar this week, according to Tass, the Russian state news agency. The meetings in Moscow on Thursday built on these efforts.

Alexandra Appelberg, an editor with the Detaly news outlet in Israel, said that Russia is trying to demonstrate that the Wests plan to isolate it following the invasion of Ukraine has failed and that it plays an important role.

According to Ms. Appelberg, Russia has practically no real levers that can allow Moscow to influence the situation, but that it might want to raise its prestige in the Arab world.

Russia has historically capitalized on its ability to speak to all major parties in the ongoing conflict. One year after Hamas won the 2006 Palestinian legislative elections, Mr. Putin met with Khaled Meshaal, then the groups leader, in Moscow. Despite its own traumatic history with terrorism, Russia has never designated Hamas as a terrorist group.

During a meeting with Russian religious leaders in the Kremlin on Wednesday, Mr. Putin offered his condolences to Israeli citizens and said that Russia knows firsthand what international terrorism is all about.

But he also criticized Israel, saying that the fight against terrorism cannot be conducted on the notorious principle of collective responsibility resulting in the deaths of the elderly, women, children, entire families.

Mr. Bogdanov also met with his Iranian counterpart, Ali Bagheri Kani, on Thursday. In a statement, the Russian foreign ministry said that the two sides acknowledged the need to stop armed hostilities in the Gaza Strip and around it.

Aaron Boxerman contributed reporting.
Its troops are massed on the Gaza border and described as ready to move, but Israels political and military leaders are divided about how, when and even whether to invade, according to seven senior military officers and three Israeli officials.

In part, they say, the delay is intended to give negotiators more time to try to secure the release of some of the more than 200 hostages captured by Hamas and other armed Palestinian groups when they raided Israel three weeks ago.

But Israeli leaders, who have vowed to retaliate against Hamas for its brutal massacre of civilians, have yet to agree on how to do so, though the military could move as soon as Friday.

Some of them worry that an invasion might suck the Israeli Army into an intractable urban battle inside Gaza. Others fear a broader conflict, with a Lebanese militia allied to Hamas, Hezbollah, firing long-range missiles toward Israeli cities.

There is also debate over whether to conduct the invasion through one large operation or a series of smaller ones. And then there are questions about who would govern Gaza if Israel captured it.

You have a cabinet with different opinions, said Danny Danon, a senior lawmaker from Likud, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus right-wing party.

Some would say that we have to start  then we can think about the next stage, said Mr. Danon, a member of the foreign affairs and defense committee in the Israeli Parliament. But we as the leadership, as statesmen, we have to set the goals, and the goals should be very clear, he said. It shouldnt be vague.
The Israeli military said on Thursday that it had briefly sent tanks into the northern Gaza Strip overnight as part of preparations for the next stage of fighting, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated a ground invasion by the troops massed on the enclaves border was likely.

The military said in a Telegram post that it had hit multiple targets and operated to prepare the battlefield, but did not elaborate, while Mr. Netanyahu, in a televised speech on Wednesday evening, vowed that Israel would punish the armed group Hamas for the Oct. 7 assault that massacred more than 1,400 people and seized more than 200 hostages.

Since the Hamas attack, Israel has waged an aerial and artillery bombardment that has been far more intensive, more destructive and deadlier than any previously seen in Gaza. The Hamas-controlled government in Gaza said Thursday that the Israeli campaign has killed more than 7,000 people, with nearly 2,000 others trapped in the ruins of destroyed buildings, figures that could not be verified.

Hamass health ministry on Thursday released a list of 6,747 names of people it said had been confirmed killed, including 2,665 children, along with each persons ID number, age and sex. It said 281 others who had died in the bombardment could not be identified.

That was an apparent response to President Biden, who said on Wednesday that he had no confidence in the death toll cited by the Gazan authorities. Last week, Hamas officials put the death toll in an explosion at Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in Gaza City at 471, while U.S. intelligence agencies assessed that it was 100 to 300.

With Israel flattening many buildings and telling the population of northern Gaza to flee to the south, international aid agencies say more than half of the territorys over 2 million people have been displaced.

The Israeli military said on Thursday that it had carried out more than 250 strikes in the preceding 24 hours; the Gazan health ministry said that at least 43 of those, and 481 resulting deaths, were in southern Gaza  where Israel has told civilians to go for their safety. Israel says it is hitting Hamas targets, often concealed within  or in tunnels beneath  residential buildings, mosques, schools and other civilian sites. Palestinians accuse it of indiscriminately killing civilians.
Before the deadly Hamas attack on Oct. 7, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was running a divisive government widely seen as the most conservative in Israels history. Amid anticipation of a protracted campaign to eradicate Hamas, Mr. Netanyahu responded to political pressure and formed a unity government that included opposition leaders.

One of its main conditions was the establishment of a war management cabinet that would oversee the fighting and dilute the power of far-right politicians in Mr. Netanyahus government. Mr. Netanyahu said in a prime-time address on Wednesday that the war cabinet would play a key role in determining when Israel begins a ground invasion of Gaza.

Three main members of the war cabinet vote and make decisions:
The U.N. agency that has been aiding Palestinian refugees for the past 74 years said on Thursday that it had begun to significantly reduce its operations in the Gaza Strip after nearly exhausting its fuel reserves, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis that the agencys top official described as hell on Earth.

The United Nations Relief Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees, or UNRWA, said in a statement that it had to reduce water supplies, as well as to cut down on fuel it provided to power generators, medical centers and bakeries.

We can skimp or ration to an extent, and we have bought ourselves some more hours doing this, Hector Sharp, the UNRWA head of field legal office, said from Gaza. But Gaza will run out of fuel at some point and the world will, I hope, sit up and say, We are going to send fuel. But it will be too late.

Heres a closer look at the organization and its work.

Why was UNRWA set up?

Originally intended to provide temporary relief, UNRWA was established in 1949 to assist Palestinians who fled or were expelled from their homes during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war. Palestinians are the only refugee group whose support is not handled under the broader mandate of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

The agency has been operating in Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, West Bank and the Gaza Strip, providing health care, food, jobs, emergency loans, housing assistance and education to millions of Palestinians. It is funded almost entirely by voluntary donations by U.N. member states, with the United States and the European Union countries providing most of the financing.

What is UNRWAs relationship with Israel?

Israel has objected to UNRWAs definition of Palestinians as refugees, and has been especially vocal against extending that category to those born in the Gaza Strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu went as far as to call for the disbanding of UNRWA, accusing it of perpetuating rather than solving the Palestinian refugee problem.

The Israelis believe that Arab nations, especially, want the Palestinian refugee problem to remain unresolved, so that theres a constant reminder of the Palestinian tragedy, said Ahron Bregman, a senior teaching fellow at Kings College London who specializes in the Arab-Israeli conflict. UNRWA, as the Israelis see it, is a tool to keep the Palestinian refugee problem unresolved.

But some experts said that despite the hostile public remarks, Israel actually needed UNRWA in the Gaza Strip to provide stability in the region. Behind the scenes Israel has often favored UNRWAs work, said Dr. Anne Irfan, an expert on Palestinian refugee rights at the University College London. The agency has been providing services that otherwise Israel would have had to provide as an occupying power.

Most of UNRWAs staff on the ground are Palestinians. Since Oct. 7, 39 of them have been killed, many of them in their homes or while doing their jobs, the agency says. Another 22 have been injured, and thousands more remain in harms way as they continue providing aid to civilians amid Israeli airstrikes.

What does UNRWA do?

UNRWA mainly provides services and funding for those registered as Palestinian refugees in the Gaza Strip, the West Bank, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. (The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is responsible for Palestinian refugees outside UNRWAs areas of operation.)

It is a major employer in a region where almost half of adults remain unemployed. It also runs schools for almost 300,000 children and provides emergency loans and housing assistance.

Essentially, for the last few decades we have been operating a parallel government in Gaza, Mr. Sharp said. We had an education department, a health care department. We were building more schools, health care clinics. We had projects to build roads and playgrounds.

And since Israel began retaliating for the Hamas assaults of Oct. 7, the agency  which has been aiding Palestinian refugees for the last 74 years  has become a lifeline for more than a million displaced Palestinians. Almost 630,000 of them found shelter in 150 buildings that previously housed UNRWA-operated schools, and thousands seek medical help every day in UNRWA-run clinics.

Megan Specia contributed reporting.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Information has spread in social networks about the lifting of restrictions imposed on TikTok in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

Commenting on the issue, the Electronic Security Service of Azerbaijan said that the restriction on the TikTok social network has not been lifted.

During local anti-terrorist activities held by Azerbaijan on September 19-20 in Karabakh, access to the TikTok has been limited.
A 40-year-old garbage collector in the Mexican state of San Luis Potosi tragically lost his life after being shot by a loaded gun that had been thrown away in a plastic garbage bag.

Imagine living in a place where gun crime is so high that people casually throw loaded firearms in garbage cans where they can literally kill garbage collectors. One such incident took place on October 16, near the Rioverde town hall, in San Luis Potosi, Mexico. A group of garbage collectors was doing their jobs when tragedy struck. One of the men was calmly picking up garbage bags and throwing them into the back of a garbage truck when suddenly a gun went off. His colleagues froze in place and then started looking around for assailants, but there was no danger in sight. Then, they saw the man lying on the pavement

Photo: Ewoud Van den Branden

Upon realizing that one of their own had been shot, the other garbage men called emergency services, but even though an ambulance arrived only a few minutes later, the man succumbed to his gunshot wound shortly after being taken to the Rioverde Medical Center.

According to Mexican newspaper El Universal, the mans death was caused by a bullet fired from a loaded gun discarded into one of the garbage bags he was collecting. experts believe that the guns trigger was accidentally pushed when the garbage bag was thrown into the truck. Unfortunately, the barrel was pointed directly at the garbage worker and he got shot.

Photo: Tom Def/Unsplash

Authorities are still investigating this case in hopes of finding the guns owner and bringing them to justice for disposing of it so irresponsibly.
Mark Read

WPPs BCW and Hill+Knowlton Strategies posted Q3 declines in like-for-like revenues due to macroeconomic uncertainty in the US, while FGS Global continued to grow well, according to the British PR/ad conglomerates trading update.

The PR group suffered a 4.9 percent drop in reported revenues to $283M and a 0.9 percent dip on a LFL basis.

Our public relations and public affairs businesses had a tougher Q3, very much in line with what we hear elsewhere in the industry with pressures most felt in the United States," Mark Read, WPP CEO, told O'Dwyer's. "That said, FGS Global did well, particularly internationally and new leadership at BCW with Corey du Browa and at H&K with Craig Bucholz both joining the WPP agencies demonstrates our commitment to top talent and to change.

WPP reported a 1.8 decline in overall reported revenues to 4.2B and a 2.3 percent LFL gain.

Read said WPPs Q3 top-line performance was below our expectations and continued to be impacted by the cautious spending trends we saw in Q2, particularly across technology clients.

In its big North America market, WPP recorded a 9.6 percent plunge to $1.4B in revenues less pass-through costs. The US was down 4.2 percent.

China fell 4.2 percent; Germany declined 3.8 percent; India registered a 7.3 percent gain; and UK inched ahead 1.1 percent to round out the top five markets.

Read issued his second profit warning this year, cutting predicted growth in half to 0.5 to 1.0 percent. He also sliced margin growth.

He promised to update investors on about WPPs strategic roadmap to drive growth, further cutbacks, and margin expansion plans over the next three to five years during Capital Markets Day in January.


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.
Volodymyr Zelensky

As Republicans get ready to pull the plug on Ukraine, Ukrainian support for their president and military remain near the highs of more than 600 days ago when Russia launched its invasion.

Despite a sluggish counter-offensive, heavy battlefield losses, constant bombardment of their infrastructure and serious economic challenges, 81 percent of Ukrainians back president Volodymyr Zelensky, and a whopping 95 percent are confident in the military, according to a Gallup poll released Oct. 16.

The US State Dept. on Oct. 26 announced the release of a new tranche of weapons and equipment to aid Ukraine on the battlefield. It also promised to work with Congress to help Ukraine secure its future.

But the Biden administration cant do it alone. Ukraine supporters must step up their PR efforts to keep Congress in the fight, especially with the rise of MAGA Mike Johnson to the House Speaker post and calls for increasing military support for Israel.

The United Help Ukraine nonprofit organization, which was formed in Washington in 2014, is looking for a PR firm to mount a pro bono campaign to build support for Ukraine.

PR firms should rise to the occasion.

Turning up the heat on COP28. More than 130 companies with combined revenues of $1T are calling for participants at the COP28 United Nations climate conference to support the phase out of fossil fuels, the primary cause of climate change.

Our businesses are feeling the impacts and cost of extreme weather events resulting from climate change, says the letter organized by the We Mean Business Coalition.

The letter calls on the COP28 attendees to seek outcomes that will lay out the groundwork to transform the global energy system toward a full phase-out of unabated fossil fuels and halve emissions this decade.

Thats going to be a tough sell as COP28 will be held Nov. 30 to Dec. 12 in Dubai, a fossil fuels powerhouse.

It promises to be a lively affair.

Where do we sign? APCO Worldwide unveiled a climate and biodiversity practice on Oct. 23, just ahead of COP28.

Its mission is to guide clients to toward a zero-carbon future without sacrificing the bottom line.

Trevor Neilson, co-founder of i (x) Net Zero, a leading sustainable platform, is global chair of the practice.

He minced no words, calling the climate crisis an existential threat to all life of Earth and stressing the need to decarbonize via thoughtful, precise strategies.

APCOs climate team also includes Lynn Davidson, who served two years as an advisor to British politico Alok Sharma, who was president of COP26.

Davidsons expertise will come in handy at COP28.
BANK of Ireland has confirmed that a camera which was spotted on an ATM in Tullamore by one eagle eyed customer recently was one of their own.

The customer said he spotted the camera after making a withdrawal at the ATM in O'Connor Square in Tullamore just after 8am.

'It was the light that caught my attention. I ran my hand underneath the top of the ATM and I saw a camera sticking out and pointed towards the card slot.

I contacted the Bank of Ireland and the Gardai. I also put a freeze on my card to be on the safe side,'' said the customer. An 'Out of Service' sign was later posted on the ATM.

A spokesperson for Bank of Ireland said the camera was their own but it had been damaged and dislodged and became visible. The spokesperson said the 'Out of Service' sign was placed on the ATM while it was being repaired. The Bank thanked the customer for his vigilance.

People are constantly told to be on their guard at ATMs and when using their cards, as their information can be stolen through skimming, this is when a device is illegally installed on the machine, point of sale terminals or fuel pumps. These can capture data or record pin numbers. Users can detect these by checking for misaligned or misprinted stickers, or if the card insert slot seems unusually bulky.
A YOUNG man has avoided a conviction for assault after making 10,000 worth of compensation and charity payments.

Tullamore District Court previously heard that Sean Gilmartin (21), Luganiska, Co Offaly had been ejected from a licensed premises on December 23 last year before he assaulted Thomas Dolan, causing him harm, and assaulted Stephen Malone, attempting to cause bodily harm.

When the pleas of guilty were entered to those offences Judge Andrew Cody was told the incident was recorded on CCTV and Mr Gilmartin's attitude to the guards afterwards was very poor.

Defending solicitor Donal Farrelly said the background to the offences was that Mr Gilmartin had met Mr Malone and they had a disagreement. Then Mr Dolan was berating his client outside the premises.

Mr Farrelly said his client could not recall what had happened because he had quite a lot to drink. He brought a letter of apology to the court.

A marketing management student in the University of Limerick, the accused had been working at temporary jobs and had saved money and brought 2,000 with him to court.

The offence had been caused by drunkenness which he would regret for ever.

Asking Judge Cody to show leniency, Mr Farrelly added that the accused was in his final year in college and would need to travel abroad for work in the future.

Judge Cody said the offence was a serious one because there had been incidents of people being killed with one punch to the head.

He asked for the payment of 5,000 to charity by Mr Gilmartin and adjourned sentence to today, October 25.

Judge Cody also ordered a victim impact report from Mr Dolan.

When the matter came before the court today Mr Farrelly detailed that the assaults had occurred outside the Bridge House in Tullamore but prior to that his client had never been in trouble.

He was accompanied to court by his parents and along with the 2,000 he had brought to court the previous day, he had another 3,000, plus the 5,000 for charity.

Because he was only a student, the accused had to make loan arrangements with the Credit Union and get the assistance of his parents.

Mr Farrelly said his client had made a dreadful mistake on the night and it was an incident which began inside the premises and continued outside.

His whole future was now at stake and because he would be working in marketing he would need to be able to travel abroad.

The solicitor said the young man would pay back the loan if he got employment and while he appreciated serious injury had been caused, he pleaded with Judge Cody not to convict him.

Judge Cody said the attack was unprovoked and involved a victim being punched and then kicked in the head on the ground.

According to the victim impact statement, the victim had made a full recovery but was very traumatised and had a scar above an eye which had been split open. He also could not sleep for a period.

The judge said he would let the matter stand for a while to consider his decision and when he returned to it, he said it was a difficult one.

He sought clarity on the injuries and having been told that Mr Malone received a punch to the face and laceration to the lip, Mr Dolan's were more serious.

Dolan fractured his nose. He was kicked in the head and those sort of injuries can kill people, said the judge.

He said he was not making a drama out of it but told Mr Gilmartin: You could be looking at a life sentence if he died because you kicked him in the temple, that's how serious it is.

While the request to strike out the matter was causing him some trouble, Judge Cody stressed the accused was a young man.

We were all young at one stage. Your parents are supporting you. It's a difficult decision.

He said that of the 10,000 which Mr Gilmartin had brought to court, 2,000 should go to Mr Dolan, 3,000 to Mr Malone and 5,000 to the National Rehabilitation Hospital who have to deal with with victims like this with head injuries and life changing injuries.

He stuck out the charges only on condition the incident could referred to in any future prosecutions.

He told Mr Gilmartin: Don't let this happen again. It's far too serious for you and for your victims, it could be life changing.
TWO fines of 250 each were imposed on a member of the Defence Forces for driving carelessly and without insurance.

Tullamore District Court heard that a silver Audi being driven by 28-year-old Ivan Calcatinci had struck a parked van and damaged it at Main Street, Birr on July 14 last at 8.40pm.

A solicitor representing Mr Calcatinci told Judge Andrew Cody his client was a native of Moldova who had been in Ireland for seven years.

He had an excellent rating in the Defence Forces and had completed one tour of duty in Lebanon.

He was a resident of Custume Barracks, Athlone and had come to Birr to see friends.

The collision with the van was described as a low velocity one and the accused remained at the scene afterwards.

In relation to the insurance, the court was told Mr Calcatinci had purchased the car a short time earlier and was waiting for the log book.

He now had a different vehicle and had full insurance until July 2024. He had no previous convictions.

Judge Cody was told that an army officer was in court for the proceedings and a penalty in excess of 1,000 would affect the man's rating.

The judge noted that it was the defendant's first offence and fined him a total of 500.
A KILKENNY contestant in this year's Westmeath Bachelor Festival has paid 5,000 to an Offaly woman he had been harassing in 2022.

John Coady (32) pleaded guilty at Tullamore District Court on October 11 to harassing a woman between May 11 and December 16 last year at Clonshanny Hill, Clara, Co Offaly.

Judge Andrew Cody said the woman should be compensated, or money given to charity if she wished, and he adjourned sentencing to October 25 for the payment of 5,000.

When the matter came before him again yesterday, Mr Coady's solicitor, Donal Farrelly, said his client had brought the 5,000 as a token of his regret.

The accused had gone to a psychotherapist to seek help with his social difficulties and he had a report on that in court.

Mr Farrelly said his client had been very smitten with the young lady but it seemed he had harassed her to the extent that she was extremely upset. He now had a new partner.

The holder of a degree in agricultural science, he had applied for a job and had also got involved in the bachelor of the year in Mullingar.

The solicitor added that Mr Coady's social skills had improved considerably, he had written a letter of apology and had a number of character references.

Sergeant Brendan Kearns told the court that the injured party would be accepting the compensation.

Judge Cody said he would be adjourning sentencing for a year to make sure there was no further offending.

He said the accused is not to contact the woman in any way and stressed the seriousness of the offence.

I'm not sure you appreciated how serious it was when you were here a week or two ago, the judge told the man. Women, and even men, are entitled to go out and socialise.

He remanded Mr Coady on continuing bail to appear in court again on October 23 next year, and made the bail conditional on there being no contact with the injured party and there being a good report from the man's psychotherapist with whom he is to continue engaging.

Mr Coady, from north Kilkenny, and with an address according to court records at Ryan's Pub, Clogh, was living on the family farm with his parents, the October 11 sitting of the court was told.

His solicitor said his client had found it difficult to develop relationships with women and had become infatuated with the injured party but he meant no harm.

He said he was in employment as an undertaker.

Mr Coady told the judge himself he was an introvert and not a big mixer.

I am very sorry about my behaviour. I thought she was beautiful. I am not a dangerous person, he said.

In a written statement the injured party said the defendant wouldn't leave her alone, following her to events where he wasn't invited or showing up at events where he wasn't expected and which were two-hour drives from where he lived.

She said his following of her over the several months felt relentless and unpleasant. Because of his relentless actions of following me, she wrote, I suffered from sleepless nights, nightmares and was often looking over my shoulder. It had a bad mental effect on me.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijani Minister of Health Teymur Musayev held bilateral meetings within the framework of the 73rd session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for Europe in Astana with WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge, Minister of Health of Kazakhstan Azhar Giniyat, as well as with the Director of the UNAIDS Regional Support Team for Asia and the Pacific Eamonn Murphy, the Ministry of Health of Azerbaijan told Trend.

The high level of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and the World Health Organization and its European Regional Committee was noted during the talks held in a friendly atmosphere. It was stressed that WHO and its European Regional Committee highly appreciate the role of the president of Azerbaijan in the successful implementation of this cooperation, as well as the convening of a special session within the framework of cooperation of the Non-Aligned Movement during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, it was noted that Azerbaijan is interested in closer cooperation with WHO in the areas of digitalization of healthcare, as well as human capital and infrastructure. Azerbaijan's assistance and initiatives in the fight against COVID-19 at the international level were also noted.

The support of the WHO and its Regional Committee for Europe in the formation of health management according to modern concepts, the use of international experience, as well as cooperation with the countries that are members of the organization was highly appreciated during the meetings.

Moreover, the importance of deepening cooperation between WHO member countries and international organizations in the creation of modern health systems, the application of progressive management principles, technological advances, the development of medical education, diagnosis of diseases, as well as the fight against AIDS was identified.
Chikkaballapur Road Accident: 13 Killed As Car Rams Into Tanker; Chilling Visuals Emerge

Bengaluru

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Thirteen people were killed after Tata Sumo rammed into a parked truck on the Bengaluru-Hyderabad highway on the outskirts of Chikkaballapur near Bengaluru on Thursday. The vehicle was plying from Anantapur district in Andhra Pradesh to Bengaluru when the driver crashed into the stationary tanker on NH 44 killing 13 passengers, including four women.

Authorities have reported that two others were injured in the incident and are currently receiving critical medical care at a local hospital.

Preliminary probe has stated that the victims including the driver of the four wheeler, who also died in the accident, hail from Anantapur district. The exact cause of the accident is yet to be ascertained. However, low visibility due to fog is also suspected to be one of the reasons which needs to be verified, a senior police officer said.

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The unfortunate individuals who lost their lives hailed from Gorantla in Andhra Pradesh but had been residing in the Hongasandra area of Bengaluru. Of the victims, five lost their lives at the scene of the collision, while the remaining seven succumbed to their injuries while en route to the hospital.

The intensity of the collision left the car's doors jammed, necessitating the efforts of local residents and law enforcement to forcibly open them in order to rescue the victims from the wreckage.

A case of accident under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code has been registered and efforts are being taken to identify and contact the family members of the victims, police said.
DMK Lawyers Address PM Modi's Allegation

Chennai

oi-Oneindia English Desk

Prime Minister Modi has recently accused the Tamil Nadu government of expropriating the temple revenues. CM Stalin has denied the allegation of PM Modi by saying that Modi's point of view is wrong. According to DMK spokesperson and lawyer Rajiv Gandhi, Modi's allegation is baseless because, DMK government has recovered almost 5381.65 crores worth temple properties in just 2 years of its reign.

The DMK government has recovered the temple properties from anti-social gangs which was never done by previous governments. The recovered 5381.65 crore is a big deal because, with just 404 crores, breakfast was provided to government school students across Tamil Nadu and with 7000 crores, financial assistance was given to 1.65 crore women beneficiaries which shows the significance of the recovered temple assets.

Is Modi's allegation true? Why did temples come under the control of the government? What led to this situation? All the queries are addressed by DMK lawyers Mathivathani and Rajiv Gandhi.

Lawyer Mathivathani's point of view:

Dravidar Kazhagam is a movement that has been fighting for many years regarding temple rights and social justice. Modi's allegation regarding the expropriation of temple assets is inaccurate. According to Section 10 of the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, a person should profess Hindu religion, in order to be appointed as Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, Joint Commissioner or even servants in temples.

Here, the eligibility is not being a Hindu by birth but the affirmation of one's allegiance to the religion. The moment someone loses their faith in the religion, they are no longer eligible to hold the post and its responsibility. Going by this rule, only Hindu believers are appointed to posts like Commissioner, Joint Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, Trustee etc. Even the Minister of Hindu Religious and Charitable endowments is a Hindu believer.

When all the personnel in the temple management are Hindus, the BJP government asking DMK government to give temple management in the hands of Hindus is pointless. Maybe, BJP meant transferring the temple management to the hands of Brahmins who have managed temples, generation after generation in the past.

CP Ramasamy Iyer Commission set up in 1962, mentions in its report, the inefficiency of trustees and priests in managing the temple administration. Secondly, the report highlights the improper maintenance of accounts of temple properties which were irresponsibly sold for buying liquor. Thirdly, temple properties worth 300 crore were encroached by influential people which were restored only in 2021 when DMK came to power.

"Government in any sovereign nation is a massive body which manages all affairs of the society. If such a massive body cannot manage temple properties, I think no one else can", said Mathivathani.

Rajiv Gandhi's point of view:

The Chidambaram temple is managed by Dikshitars (a Brahmin community), not by the government. Even though almost all major temples came under the control of the government, Dikshitars still manage Chidambaram which is a kind of encroachment activity.

Logically speaking, Dikshtars did not contribute anything to the temples. Kings financed the temple construction, architects designed it and sculptors made the sculptures in the temple. Summing up, the contribution of Dikshitars to Chidambaram temple is nil and yet the temple is claimed by them.

In the past, Rajaji said, "In Madras presidency, atheists like EV Ramasamy are leading the temple entry movement. Being a Hindu, I say that, people from all castes can enter temples from now on." Presently, DMK government has made it possible for people belonging to all castes to become priests which was a privilege of Brahmins in the past.

Unlike the allegations made by Modi, it is the Brahmin communities that have encroached temples, not the government. In Tamil Nadu, approximately 2 lakh temples are not under government control. As per section 10 of Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Act, even though a government servant manages the administration, he/she should be a Hindu believer, otherwise they are deemed ineligible to hold the post.

Section 10 of the Act, necessitates appointing a Hindu believer, not a Brahmin. In mosques, being a Rawther or Lebbai doesn't matter, they are all allowed to worship in the same place. It is only in temples, people from some communities are not allowed to enter the temples and some languages are prohibited as language for worship etc.

The non-entry for some communities is a clear sign of untouchability. In order to prohibit untouchability, a department for Hindu Religious Charities was needed. In order to propagate social justice, the need for government intervention arose.
Two Decades Without Power, Now Lit Up In Just One Week

Dazzling Victoria Hall, A Landmark Restored By CM Stalin At A Cost Of 32.62 Crore

Chennai

oi-Oneindia English Desk

Victoria Public Hall has been restored fully and the re-opening ceremony of which will be held by CM Stalin. CM Stalin announced the renovation of the historically significant monument at a cost of 32.62 crore last March under the Singara Chennai 2.0 project whose aim is to provide a facelift to infrastructure development in the city.

Under the project, historically significant buildings stained with dirt for years such as Chennai High Court, Victoria Public Hall are planned to be revived. At the time of announcement of renovation works in Victoria Public Hall, a preview of how the building will be renovated was shown to the public.

An open air exhibition hall has been established in the ground floor of the renovated Victoria Hall where facilities will be provided for the public to hold events. A photo exhibition named Chennai Art and Heritage Museum has been set up on the first floor to highlight the historic pride. The pictures on display include photos from the British period, historic map of Chennai city, ancient sculptures, inscriptions etc.

A museum has been set up where the exhibits are planned to be changed every 3 months to encourage frequent visits from the public. Additionally, a conference hall has also been set up. All these facilities have been made as a part of renovation in the Victoria Public Hall which is located between Ribbon building and Central Railway station.

Historic facts from Writer Sriram:

100 years ago, Victoria Public Hall was of paramount significance to Chennai city where major events were held. The need for a public hall was decided in the General Assembly held by Chennai Corporation in 1882. The funds for the construction of the hall was contributed by wealthy people in Chennai.

The empty area belonging to the Corporation near Moore market was chosen for the construction of the hall. This place was decided owing to its vicinity to the famous Moore market which is near the Central Railway Station, hence the place checks the boxes of accessibility and familiarity.

57 grounds which amounts to 1.368 lakh square feet (1 ground = 2400 sq. ft.) land from the empty area was decided to be used for the construction. Since, the land belongs to the government, it was decided to pay a rent of 50 paise per ground. Queen Victoria of England celebrated the golden jubilee of her coronation in 1887. The golden jubilee celebrations coincided with the completion of the public hall, hence the hall was named after Queen Victoria.

The architect of the Victoria Public Hall is Robert Chisholm who is also the architect of other red-coloured vintage buildings in Chennai. Thatikonda Namberumal Chetty who was an Indian, was the contractor for the public hall.

In 1893, the first meeting of Brahma Gana Sabha happened in Victoria Public Hall. In 1897, Swami Vivekananda delivered a speech in a public meeting held in the hall after returning from Chicago. Approximately 10,000 people attended the meeting in which Vivekananda gave a speech and paid Rs.2 as entry fee.

The concept of cinema was introduced in Chennai in 1896 by D. Stephen who ran the Madras Photography Store. He purchased a projector on December 8, 1896 and showed the cinema for the first time in Victoria Public Hall. In 1915, a Gujarati lawyer from Africa gave a lecture in the hall who later came to be known as Mahatma Gandhi.

The South Indian Welfare Rights Association which later on evolved into the Justice Party and Dravidar Kazhagam conducted its first meeting in Victoria Public Hall in 1916. In 1919, Bharathiyar attended a meeting held in the hall and delivered a speech. Such a historically important building was in ruins till now but realising its significance, CM Stalin has restored it.

"The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see." - Winston Churchill.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 17:58 [IST]
8 Ex-Navy Officials Sentenced To Death In Qatar, India Says Exploring Legal Options

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

The Court of First Instance in Doha, Qatar, delivered a verdict, condemning eight former Indian Navy officials to the death penalty for their roles in the defunct Al Dahra company, also known as Dahra Global.

India has expressed deep shock and concern following the imposition of the death penalty on eight former Indian Navy personnel in Qatar.

''We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company,'' the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Thursday.

''We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options,'' the ministry statement added.

The ministry also said,''We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities.''

''Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture,'' the MEA stated.

Eight former Indian Navy personnel, who were held in custody for over a year, have been sentenced to death by a Qatari court. The Indian government has conveyed its profound dismay regarding the verdict and has stated its commitment to exploring all available legal avenues. These veterans were employed by a private company and were apprehended by the Qatari intelligence service on undisclosed allegations.
'I Don't Want To Be CM But...': Ashok Gehlot's Creates Ripples In Rajasthan Before Polls

Congress Vs BJP In Rajasthan Polls: How Both Parties Are Relying On Seasoned Leaders?

Gundagardi Hai Ye: Gehlot Slams BJP Over ED Action On His Son, Congress Leaders

India

oi-PTI

Raids by the ED are happening in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and the poor in the state to get the benefit of the guarantees given by the party, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said on Thursday.

The allegation came after the Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and party candidate from Mahua assembly seat as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state.

The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law.

#WATCH | "...Gundagardi hai yeh...Without pressure from the top neither ED nor CBI can come..," says Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot on BJP as ED raids continue on his state minister Govind S Dotasra." pic.twitter.com/y4hOayGH9U  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

In a post in Hindi on X, the chief minister said, ''Date 25/10/23: Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23: ED raid on Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Ji Dotasra. Summon to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear before ED.''

Rajasthan CM's Son Vaibhav Gehlot Summoned In FEMA Case By ED

''Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED's raids are happening in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and the poor in Rajasthan to get the benefit of the guarantees given by the Congress,'' he said.

In a public rally of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in Jhunjhunu on Wednesday, CM Gehlot promised two ''guarantees'' if the Congress is re-elected in the state -- cooking gas cylinders for Rs 500 to 1.05 crore families and an annual honorarium of Rs 10,000 to the woman head of a family in installments.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) hosted another meeting with the heads of banks operating in the country, Chairman of the Central Bank Taleh Kazymov wrote on his page on X, Trend reports.

It was noted that during the meeting, the results of the 3rd quarter of this year in the banking sector were discussed.

We also reviewed the recent impact of global trends and challenges on the financial and banking sectors. We talked about measures to ensure macroeconomic stability in the country and expand entrepreneurs access to financial resources, he wrote.
BPSC Declares Teacher Recruitment Exam Results Conditional, To Conduct Multi-Layer Filtering

The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has announced that the recently declared Teacher Recruitment Examination (TRE) results are conditional and subject to a rigorous multi-layer filtering process to eliminate ineligible candidates.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Patna: The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) on Wednesday announced that the recently declared Teacher Recruitment Examination (TRE) results are conditional and subject to a rigorous multi-layer filtering process to eliminate ineligible candidates. Chairman of the commission, Atul Prasad, on Wednesday, said, "If required, the Commission may declare more supplementary results. The Commission is conducting a multi-layer filtering of the Bihar TRE result to weed out undeserving candidates and therefore, all announced results are conditional. If posts remain vacant due to this filtering, they will be filled through one or more supplementary results."

Discrepancies Alleged in Recruitment Process

Later in the day, the Commission released cut-off marks and a list of disqualified candidates for all classes. The BPSC TRE results for different papers have been recently announced along with district-wise allocation lists. A large number of teacher aspirants gathered outside the BPSC office in the state capital on Wednesday. Some of them alleged large-scale discrepancies in the recruitment process of teachers for various classes. Security forces were also deployed in the area to check any untoward incident.

Commenting on alleged discrepancies in the recruitment process of teachers by the BPSC, Raju Singh, convener of TET Primary Teachers Association told IANS, "BPSC recruitment process of teachers is faulty... the state government is simply playing with the lives of teaching aspirants. A large number of teaching aspirants from other states have been recruited in this drive. Besides, contractual teachers, who are already teaching in government schools for the last several years, have also been recruited. The government has already announced that contractual teachers will soon get government employee status," he said.

Singh also alleged that teaching aspirants protesting outside the BPSC office against discrepancies in the results were lathi-charged by the police. However, Patna Senior Superintendent of Police Rajeev Mishra dismissed the allegation, saying, "Security forces were deployed to maintain peace but no force was used against them."

BJP, JDU Leaders Trade Barbs

The written examination was conducted from August 24 to August 26 in two shifts from 10 am to noon and from 3.30 pm to 5.30 pm across the state. The final answer key was released on October 15. This recruitment drive was for 1,70,461 vacancies of teachers in Bihar.

Commenting on the alleged discrepancies, Bihar BJP chief Samrat Choudhary told reporters, "It's a recruitment scam by the Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government. Surprisingly, teachers contractual who are already teaching in government schools have also been recruited in the current recruitment drive. The state government is simply misleading job aspirants and is playing with their lives. We also condemn the incident of lathi-charge on job aspirants today," he added.

Further, commenting on JDU leader Neeraj Kumar calling Chief Minister Nitish Kumar a time bomb that would tear down the BJPs 2024 game plan, Choudhary demanded action against Neeraj Kumar. "It's strange that his own party JDU has projected Nitish Kumar as a suicide bomber. The CM must issue an official statement over such comments," he told reporters. However, Neeraj Kumar was not available for his comments.

The BPSC TRE results have been mired in controversy, with allegations of discrepancies and irregularities. The Commission has announced that it will conduct a multi-layer filtering process to eliminate ineligible candidates. However, the protesting teaching aspirants have alleged that the recruitment process is faulty and have demanded a thorough investigation.
Over 5,000 Dengue Cases Reported in Delhi Till Mid-September

More than 5,000 cases of dengue had been reported in Delhi till mid-September this year, according to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC).

India

-Krishna Kripa

New Delhi: The National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) has reported that over 5,000 cases of dengue have been reported in Delhi till mid-September this year. However, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has not shared any recent data on vector-borne diseases in the national capital. The MCD's last weekly report on vector-borne diseases was released in the first week of August.

MCD Sources: Nearly 5,000 Dengue Cases Recorded This Year

According to MCD sources, nearly 5,000 cases of dengue have been recorded in the city so far this year. The official website of the NCVBDC, which comes under the Union health ministry, shows that 5,221 cases of dengue and one death due to the disease had been recorded in Delhi till mid-September this year.

Mayor Oberoi Reviews Vector-Borne Diseases Situation

Mayor Shelly Oberoi held a review meeting on vector-borne diseases with the Public Health Department officials of the MCD at the Civic Centre on Thursday. During the meeting, officials informed Oberoi that all necessary steps are being taken to check the spread of dengue and other vector-borne diseases and the situation in Delhi is under control.

Malaria Under Control, Chikungunya Cases Reduced

The statement released by the Mayor's office said that malaria is completely under control in Delhi, with 352 cases reported so far this year. There has also been a significant reduction in chikungunya cases, with only 29 cases reported so far this year compared to 129 in 2018, 132 in 2019, 74 in 2020, 73 in 2021, and 38 in 2022.

Efforts to Reduce Mosquito Breeding

The MCD has intensified its efforts to reduce mosquito breeding in Delhi. Indoor and outdoor fogging is being done using more than 1,000 machines across 250 wards of Delhi. The MCD is also checking mosquito larvae breeding at more than 1.5 lakh places every day and issuing notices and challans to violators.

Mayor Oberoi's Statement

Mayor Oberoi said that the MCD is dealing with vector-borne diseases with full force and dengue cases will be reduced in the coming 15 days. She emphasized the importance of taking all necessary measures to prevent the spread of these diseases and urged the public to cooperate with the MCD's efforts.

The rise in dengue cases in Delhi is a cause for concern, but the MCD's efforts to control the spread of the disease are commendable. With continued vigilance and cooperation from the public, the situation can be brought under control. The MCD must continue its efforts to reduce mosquito breeding sites and create awareness among the public about preventive measures.
Police to Conduct DNA Test on Chained Body of Swiss Woman Found in Delhi

Police are planning to conduct a DNA test on a Swiss woman whose chained body was found in west Delhis Tilak Nagar last week. Family members may not come for identification.

India

-Krishna Kripa

In a shocking incident that has left the nation stunned, Delhi police are set to conduct a DNA test on a Swiss woman named Nina Berger whose chained and decomposed body was discovered in west Delhi's Tilak Nagar last week. The gruesome discovery has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting an alarming case of violence against foreign nationals.

The deceased woman, estimated to be around 30 years old, was found near a Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) school with her limbs tied by metal chains. The police have arrested Gurpreet Singh in connection with this heinous crime, who confessed to killing Berger and disposing her body. It has emerged that Singh deleted all his conversations with Berger from his two mobile phones prior to being apprehended by law enforcement.

Victim's Background and Suspect's Motive

According to police sources, Berger was employed at a law firm in Switzerland. Her locked iPhone was recovered but remains inaccessible; cyber experts have been roped in for assistance. Through investigation into Singhs mobile phones, it came to light that he had been communicating with several foreign women under the guise of offering them gemstones for their wellness and prosperity. This same ruse is believed to have lured Berger from Switzerland to Delhi.

Suspects Interrogation

Digging deeper into Singhs motives during interrogation revealed an unrequited love angle  he intended on marrying Berger but she declined his proposal. On October 11th at Singhs behest, she arrived in Delhi and lodged herself at a west Delhi hotel.

Forensic Investigation & Legal Proceedings

In their quest for justice for Nina Berger, investigators have seized numerous documents and belongings from Singh which may prove crucial when matched with the DNA samples extracted from the body. A post-mortem examination is slated to be conducted by a panel of doctors, pending approval from the Swiss embassy.

Family's Reluctance & Further Investigation

The victim's family has expressed unwillingness to travel to Delhi for identification of the body. Forensic experts have collected blood and other evidence from the Hyundai Santro car that was allegedly used for dumping Bergers chained body. Despite Singhs attempts at misdirection, he remains under rigorous interrogation. On Wednesday, a court extended his police custody by five days.

The Family Angle

Singhs father, involved in gemstones and astrology business like his son, is yet to be questioned as he is currently abroad while other family members have already been interrogated.

In conclusion, this chilling crime has not only exposed an alarming level of violence against foreign nationals but also highlighted potential threats posed by online interactions with strangers. The case serves as a grim reminder of the importance of personal safety both in real life and virtual world. As investigations continue into this shocking murder case, one can only hope that justice will be served swiftly for Nina Berger.
ED Arrests Bengal Minister Jyotipriya Mallick In Ration Scam: What We Know So Far

ED officials raided the residences of West Bengal minister Jyotipriyo Mallick in connection with an ongoing probe into the alleged multi-crore ration distribution scam. The raids are still underway, and the minister has been threatened to file a police case against the BJP and ED if anything happened to him during the searches.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Kolkata: Enforcement Directorate (ED) officials' raids at the residences of West Bengal minister Jyotipriya Mallick are still underway, over 17 hours after the searches began on Thursday. The raids are in connection with an ongoing probe into the alleged multi-crore ration distribution scam, an officer said.

Searches at Multiple Locations

The ED sleuths raided two houses belonging to Mallick, the state's forest minister, at Kolkata's Salt Lake area, supported by a team of central forces, he said. The probe agency also carried out a search at his ancestral house on Amherst Street in central Kolkata, he added.

'Gundagardi Hai Ye: Gehlot Slams BJP Over ED Action On His Son, Congress Leaders

Mamata Banerjee Condemns Raids

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, during a press conference in the afternoon, said Mallick was unwell, and threatened to file a police case against the BJP and ED if anything happened to the minister during the searches at his residences. Banerjee also termed the raids by the ED against opposition leaders as a dirty political game by the BJP.

Scam Allegations

The scam pertains to alleged irregularities in the public distribution system PDS, and in distribution of food grains during the COVID-19 induced lockdowns. "We are talking to the minister and the process might continue for a few more hours. We have seized several documents from his residences, and the ministers bank accounts are being scrutinised. Searches are also underway at the residences of Mallick's former personal assistant in Dum Dum area, and at a few other places, including Beliaghata and Basdroni," the ED officer told PTI.

Political Reactions

Trinamool Congress leader and state minister Shashi Panja also criticised the raids at Mallick's residences, asserting that this is an attack on the culture of Bengal at the time of 'Bijoya Dasami. "This is nothing but vendetta politics. We have seen there were raids at our leaders places before Durga Puja when we were demonstrating, demanding release of MGNREGA funds. We are not surprised at such search operations as they central agencies have identified certain targets... And this will continue," Panja alleged.

Rajasthan CM's Son Vaibhav Gehlot Summoned In FEMA Case By ED

BJP leader Rahul Sinha claimed that the TMC is deeply mired in corruption, with several of its leaders facing allegations of corruption. "Whenever the ED or CBI conducts raids at TMC leaders residences, they cry foul and describe the exercise as being politically motivated. The reality is... nearly every TMC leader is facing corruption allegations," Sinha said.

Officials of central probe agencies had recently conducted searches at various locations in the state, including at the residence of Food and Supplies Minister Rathin Ghosh and Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim.
Haryana Police Suspends 372 Investigating Officers for Inadequate Action in FIRs

The Haryana Police Department has suspended 372 Investigating Officers (IOs) across the state for alleged inadequate action in FIRs pending for over a year. The orders were issued on the instructions of Home Minister Anil Vij.

India

-Krishna Kripa

The Haryana police department has suspended 372 Investigating Officers (IOs) across the state for alleged inadequate action in FIRs pending for over a year. The orders were issued on Wednesday, October 25, following instructions from Home Minister Anil Vij.

Vij's Instructions

On Wednesday, Vij spoke with the state's Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur, directing him to immediately act on his instructions to suspend the IOs on Monday. Sources said that Vij told the DGP that there should be no further delay in the matter.

Matter Forwarded for Immediate Compliance

Hours later, the office of Additional Director General of Police Crime forwarded the matter for immediate compliance to concerned Commissioners of Police of Gurugram, Faridabad, Panchkula, and Sonipat and Superintendents of Police of Ambala, Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, Hisar, Sirsa, Jind, Rewari, and Rohtak districts. The concerned officers have also been directed by ADGP Crime to ensure that a compliance report is submitted to his office.

Vij's Warning

During his telephonic conversation on Wednesday, Vij told the DGP to forward the matter to the concerned officers for suspension and said he would take action in case of further non-compliance. In a letter addressed to the Director General of Police on Monday, Vij gave instructions to suspend 372 IOs across various districts of the state.

Pending Cases to be Transferred

Vij had also asked for cases pending for over a year to be transferred to respective deputy superintendents of police for final disposal within a month, failing which, action should be taken against those officers also. In a written communication to DGP earlier, Vij had said that he had asked for the early disposal of the FIRs registered in the state many times.

Reason for Suspensions

The home minister said that the number of such cases is above 3,000, which he said was "very high." He wrote, "I am pained to know that despite my instruction, still 372 IOs are those who have not finally disposed of the cases and the reason quoted by them are not satisfactory. All these IOs should be put under suspension immediately."

Unprecedented Move

Justifying the unprecedented move to demand the suspension of so many police officials in one go, the home minister said people are being forced to move from pillar to post for action on their complaints, which was a very serious matter. Vij said that the police department, earlier in May this year, informed him that there were 3,029 cases that were pending for more than a year.

Details of Suspended IOs

Among the IOs, 66 IOs are from Sirsa, 60 from Gurugram, 57 from Yamunanagar, 32 from Faridabad, 31 from Karnal, 31 from Rohtak, 30 from Ambala, 24 from Jind, 14 from Hisar, 10 from Panchkula, nine from Sonipat, five from Rewari, and three from Panipat.

The suspension of 372 IOs in Haryana is a significant step taken by the state government to address the issue of pending FIRs. The move aims to ensure prompt action on complaints and improve the efficiency of the police department. The concerned officers have been directed to submit a compliance report, and further action will be taken if there is any non-compliance.
IIM Bangalore Tops QS MBA Rankings 2024 In India; 10 More In Global List

India

oi-Stuti Tripathi

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore has secured the top position in India in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR) for Global MBA and Business Master's in 2024, ranking 48th globally.

The Wharton School and Harvard Business School were ranked second and third, respectively, on the global list. Notably, ten Indian MBA colleges earned positions among the top 250 institutes in Asia.

In the QS Global Full-Time MBA Rankings, IIM Bangalore showed significant improvement, moving from 50th place in the 2023 rankings to 48th in 2024. IIM Calcutta got the 59th position while IIM Ahmedabad claimed the 53rd spot.

Two Indian MBA colleges were among the top 50 globally for employability. IIM Bangalore ranked 39th globally and fourth in Asia, while IIM Calcutta was placed 46th worldwide and seventh in Asia.

IIM Ahmedabad was positioned 33rd, making it the second-best in Asia, while The Indian School of Business secured the 43rd position becoming the fifth-best in Asia for alumni outcomes and entrepreneurship.

India-Japan Study Centre at IIMB gets thumbs up from Japans Ambassador to India

IIM Bangalore secured the 31st position in return on investment, making it the only Indian MBA institute in the top 50 in this category. Although not in the top 50 overall, it led the country in thought leadership, with an overall ranking of 57th.

Additionally, QS provides rankings for 28 specialized master's programmes in business, including fields such as marketing, business analytics, supply chain management, finance, and management (with 17 in supply chain management, five in finance, and three in management).

According to the QS World University Rankings, due to exceptional alumni outcomes where IIM Bangalore ranked 10th, it claimed the top spot for the Master in Management programme in India and secured the 31st position overall.

IIM Calcutta, positioned within the top 100, excelled as one of India's leading master's programmes in business analytics, earning a rank between 61 and 70 for this program. In addition, IIM Udaipur achieved a rank of 51 or higher for its master's program in supply chain management.

For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications

Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 18:04 [IST]
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India Requires a National Security Strategy, Says Former NSA Shivshankar Menon

Former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon said India requires a national security strategy and the government should come out with a white paper on defence.

India

-Krishna Kripa

India requires a national security strategy, and while it may take time, the government should come out with a white paper on defense to make clear its thinking on important issues, former National Security Advisor (NSA) Shivshankar Menon said on Wednesday.

Need for a National Security Strategy

Speaking at the launch of the book "India's National Security Challenges," edited by former Jammu and Kashmir governor N.N. Vohra, Menon also said deterrence has broken down on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Stressing that defense reforms are required, Menon said in the past, at least three attempts have been made to produce a national security strategy.

"At least three attempts that I know of in the past to produce a national security strategy. In each case, hesitation came not from professionals, but from the political level. I sense, but cannot prove, that they do not wish their hands to be tied," he said. "If you agree on ends in a national strategy, you have to provide the means. I think this is where the resistance comes from," the former NSA said.

Lack of Clarity in the Role of CDS

Citing examples of a lack of clarity, Menon mentioned that the operational role of the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) is unclear.

"Today, if you look at the CDS charter, he is the principal military advisor...he is also equivalent to the Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, and he is also supposed to drive military reform. What is unclear is his operational role, and that is something on which we need much more clarity. There is also a larger issue of multiple institutions created over time, and their relation with each other," he said. "A clear chain of command is essential if we have to respond to the security situation that faces us. Frankly, uncertainty in this aspect affects our capability to deter our adversaries," he said.

Need for a White Paper on Defence

Menon said while a full-fledged national security policy may be difficult at this time, the government should bring out a white paper on defense.

"It is time for a white paper on defense that makes clear the government's thinking on all of these issues and the path forward," he said.

Deterrence Broken Down on LAC with China

Commenting on the India-China border situation, Menon said, "Deterrence has broken down on the LAC with China. What happened in 2020 in the western sector and subsequent developments, including the disengagement in some areas, is evident in satellite pics that people can access. These do not suggest deterrence has been re-established."

"There is a political impasse and a military standoff. The LAC is live; there is nothing to suggest we are making progress. We are either stabilizing the border with China or preventing China from using the threat of action on the border," he said.

Incomplete Reforms

He also said that several reforms started during the term of General Bipin Rawat, the first CDS, have not been completed.

"Reform half done creates new vulnerabilities without resolving old ones. We are today in a situation where many reforms begun by the former CDS, those reforms are still incomplete. Besides, as I said, the operational role needs to be clear at every level, from NSA, CDS downward..." he said, citing the example of the Agnipath scheme, which he said, impacted India-Nepal relations.

In conclusion, India's national security is of utmost importance, and a comprehensive strategy is required to address the challenges it faces. The government should take the necessary steps to formulate and implement a robust national security strategy to safeguard the nation's interests.
Inside Rahul Gandhi's Interview With Satya Pal Malik: Pulwama, Article 370, Manipur, Adani & More

India

oi-Stuti Tripathi

In a new video released by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, he conducted an interview with former Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik. During the interview, a range of topics was discussed, including the Pulwama terror attack, the farmers' protest, and Gautam Adani.

Political Use of Pulwama Attack Alleged

Satya Pal Malik, the last governor of Jammu and Kashmir before it became a Union Territory, asserted that the Pulwama attack was exploited for political purposes by the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP). The attack, which occurred in February 2019, resulted in the loss of 40 CRPF personnel when a suicide bomber from Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed rammed an explosive-laden vehicle into their bus.

Adani Group 'Fleecing' People: Rahul Gandhi

Malik claimed that the CRPF soldiers had requested five aircraft, but their request was denied by the Home Ministry. He revealed that "Their application was lying in the Home Ministry for four months," and was ultimately rejected, forcing the personnel to travel by road.

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Rahul Gandhi-Satyapal Malik discuss the fight between Gandhism and RSS ideology | Oneindia

Furthermore, Malik stated that both Prime Minister Modi and Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor of India, advised him not to discuss the issue. "Besides this, the vehicle which rammed into the CRPF bus was roaming there for 10 days before the incident. It was full of explosives," the former J&K governor added.

Managing Jammu and Kashmir Through Engagement

Malik emphasized that Jammu and Kashmir cannot be effectively managed through force or the presence of the army. He suggested that engaging with the local population was key to achieving success in the region. "You can do anything by winning over the people there", he said.

According to Malik, the people of J&K were more hurt by the loss of their statehood than the abrogation of Article 370. He called for the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir's statehood and the holding of elections.

Insight into Manipur's Ethnic Strife

Malik also discussed the ongoing ethnic tensions in Manipur and pointed out the government's failure in addressing the situation. "Neither the Chief Minister can go there nor can he do anything. Yet, he has not been removed," he added further.

INDIA Bloc Represents 60 PC Of Nation, Says Rahul Gandhi

Farmers' Issues and the Minimum Support Price

In the interview, Malik addressed the farmers' agitation and identified the immediate implementation of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) as a solution to their problems. He noted that although the government had promised to implement MSP when the farm laws were repealed, no action had been taken.

The veteran leader also alleged that Adani had constructed large warehouses and purchased crops at a fixed price, planning to sell them at higher prices the following year. "Because Adani built large godowns and purchased crops at a set price. Next year, their prices will increase and he will sell it," He asserted that the implementation of MSP would prevent farmers from selling their produce at low prices.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 15:21 [IST]
Israel asks India to designate Hamas as terror outfit

Israel has asked India to designate Hamas as a terrorist entity, citing the deadly attacks on Israeli cities on October 7.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Israel on Wednesday asked India to designate Hamas as a terrorist entity like many other countries have done even as it hailed New Delhi's solid support to its operations against the outfit.

Need for proscribing Hamas

Israeli ambassador to New Delhi Naor Gilon said the need for proscribing Hamas as a terrorist organization was taken up with India following the deadly attacks on Israeli cities on October 7.

At the same time, he said the matter was taken up earlier as well. The important countries for us are with us. These are the democracies of the world. Having said that...I think it is also time to officially designate Hamas in India as a terror organization, Gilon said at a media briefing.

Many countries have already designated Hamas as terror outfit

The Israeli ambassador said many countries including the US, Canada as well as the leading grouping, the European Union, have already designated Hamas as a terror outfit.

We spoke to the relevant authorities here. It is not the first time we spoke about it. I think we both understand the threat of terrorism. It is not something we are putting pressure on. We think it is something due because of our shared war on terror, Gilon said about Israel's call for designating Hamas as a terror outfit in India.

India's support to Israel

Gilon also thanked India for its 100 per cent support to Israel in its anti-terror operations against Hamas and especially referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's post on Twitter expressing his shock over the terror attacks and expressing solidarity with people of Israel.

Prime Minister Modi ji was among the first leaders in the world to come out with a very clear statement, he said.

The envoy said Modi's comments unequivocally condemning terrorism set a very clear tone. It is important to us as India is a very close ally. But India is also a very important moral voice of the world. When it comes to terrorism, India is also coming from the point of view of someone who knows what it is talking about being itself a victim of terrorism, Gilon said.

Israel's war with Hamas

On Israel's war with Hamas, he said it is about the country's survival in the tough neighborhood in the Middle East.

For Israel, it's a war of being able to survive in the Middle East. We live in a very tough neighborhood. In the Middle East, if you are perceived to be weak, your life is going to be miserable, he said.

If people think that they can attack Israel, we will be attacked all the time. So vulnerability is not much appreciated. We have to make sure that people who have bad ideas about us are not able to execute them, he said.

Success of Hamas not an option

The envoy said any indication of Hamas winning in the war against Israel may trigger a ripple effect in the region and beyond and that is not an option at all.

The success of Hamas is not an option for moderate regimes in the Middle East. They do not want such a scenario, he said.

The Israeli envoy also alleged that Iran has been supporting Hamas.

For years, Iran has been financing, training and equipping Hamas, he claimed.

In the past, Iran has rejected the allegation.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. A new project called "Quality Infrastructure for Green Transformation" has been launched in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

The main goal of the project, according to the Azerbaijan Institute of Standardization, is to adopt relevant standards in the field of greenhouse gas validation and certain standards in the field of verification, conduct training based on the adopted standards, and develop an accreditation scheme in the field of greenhouse gas validation and verification.

The Azerbaijan Institute of Standardization (AZSTAND) is the primary beneficiary of the German National Institute of Metrology (PTB)-funded initiative, which also includes the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan (ETSN) and the Azerbaijan Accreditation Center (AZAK).

On October 19-20, 2023, the project organized a two-day webinar on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions verification in the EU-regulated region and accreditation in the field of GHG validation and verification. The conference was attended by approximately 40 representatives from AZSTAND, ETSN, and AZAK.

The Azerbaijan Institute of standardizing was founded as a national standardizing agency by Presidential Decree No. 1234 issued on February 10, 2017. The Institute's main activities are national standard development, adoption, and repeal; management of the State Standards Fund; maintenance and registration of normative documents on technical regulation and standardization; coordination of technical committees on standardization; and conformity assessment activities (certification and laboratory testing).
JK: Security Forces Kill 5 LeT Terrorists Along LoC, Respond Befittingly To Pak Firing At IB

India

pti-PTI

Security forces on Thursday killed five LeT terrorists making an infiltration bid across the LoC in Kupwara district and responded befittingly to unprovoked firing by the Pakistan Rangers along the International Border in Jammu, officials said.

The ceasefire violation in the Arnia sector came hours after the joint operation by police and army along the Line of Control in Machhil sector of Kupwara. A senior BSF official said the Pakistan Rangers opened unprovoked firing at Indian posts around 8 pm and Indian troops retaliated "befittingly".

The exchange of gunfire was underway till last reports came in, the official said. According to reports, some BSF jawans were injured in the firing, but there was no official confirmation. Senior BSF officers were rushing to the spot, officials said.

In the Machhil sector operation, five Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) terrorists were killed as security forces foiled their infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC). A huge cache of arms and ammunition including five AK series rifles and other incriminating materials were recovered from the site of the gunfight, officials said.

Additional Director General of Police Kashmir Vijay Kumar said five terrorists have been killed in the operation so far. "Based on an intelligence input generated by Kupwara Police, an infiltration bid was successfully foiled in a joint operation launched by Police and Army along the Line of Control in Machhil sector of Kupwara district.

In this swift and coordinated operation, five terrorists were neutralised," a police spokesperson said. He said the joint party launched the operation during the intervening night of October 25-26 at Sardari Nar area along the LoC.

"Besides, multiple ambushes were laid by the joint teams along the LoC. Today, the joint team observed movement of terrorists in the thick dense forests of the area who taking advantage of difficult terrain infiltrated to our side.

Employing meticulous tactics, the terrorists were intercepted who fired indiscriminately upon the joint team. The fire was retaliated, leading to the elimination of five unidentified terrorists linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT," the spokesperson said. He said the identification of the slain terrorists is being ascertained.

"All the recovered materials have been taken into case records for further investigation. In this regard, Police have registered a case under relevant sections of law and investigation has been initiated. Extensive search of the area is being carried out and further details if any will be shared accordingly," the spokesperson added.

While officials maintain that infiltration attempts have come down significantly, attempts by terrorists to sneak into Indian territory have continued this year. Two terrorists were killed in a failed infiltration bid four days ago in Uri sector. A total of 11 infiltrators were shot dead in June - four of them in Macchil sector and five in nearby Jumagund area of Keran sector.
MP Assembly Polls: Kamal Nath Files Nomination From Chhindwara

India

pti-PTI

Madhya Pradesh Congress president and former chief minister Kamal Nath on Thursday filed his nomination as the grand old party's candidate from Chhindwara seat - his pocket borough - for the next month's assembly elections.

The 76-year-old leader filed the nomination at 2.30 pm, after offering prayers at a Ram temple here. Priests had advised Nath to file his nomination during the 'Amrit Muhurat' (auspicious time) as per the Hindu Panchang.

Accordingly, he submitted the papers at 2.30 pm, local priest Pandit Manohar told PTI. "Earlier, Nath ji used to file his nomination papers around 11 am," he added. In the run-up to the assembly polls, the state unit of the Congress headed by Nath is being seen to be heavily relying on auspicious days and time to carry out important tasks.

Talking to PTI, MP Congress media cell chief K K Mishra said, "We declared our first list of 144 candidates for MP polls at 9.9 am on the very first day of Navratri, which is auspicious. If we add 1, 4, 4 it comes to 9, which is a lucky number." The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has fielded Bunty Sahu against Nath.

The Congress leader had defeated Sahu by a margin of more than 25,000 in the by-election to the Chhindwara assembly constituency in 2019. Talking to reporters after filing the nomination papers, Nath who is leading the party in the centrally-located state, told reporters that the people of Madhya Pradesh and Chhindwara will shower their blessing on the Congress.

In the run-up to the polls, Nath had already organised sermons of two prominent Hindu preachers Pandit Dhirendra Shastri and Pandit Pradeep Mishra. Shastri, who advocates for Hindu Rashtra, had praised Nath for building more than 102-feet tall Hanuman temple in Chhindwara.

Nath had represented the Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency for eight times. After becoming the chief minister in 2018, he had contested the assembly by-election after Congress MLA Deepak Saxena resigned from Chhindwara to make way for Nath to fight the polls.

The government led by Kamal Nath, which was formed in December 2018, lasted only 15 months as it collapsed in March 2020 after several MLAs loyal to Jyotiraditya Scindia quit the Congress and joined the BJP.

The development paved the way for the saffron party's return to power in the state with Shivraj Singh Chouhan becoming the chief minister once again. Elections to the 230-member Madhya Pradesh assembly will be held on November 17, and the counting of votes will be taken up on December 3.
Murli Manohar Joshi Says World Passing Through Dangerous Times

BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi said the world is passing through dangerous times and exhorted people to take recourse to Indian philosophy for peace and prosperity.

India

-Krishna Kripa

New Delhi: Veteran BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi has warned of a grave crisis engulfing the world, describing these times as dangerous. He urged people to seek refuge in Indian philosophy for peace and prosperity. Addressing the launch of RSS functionary and ideologue Manmohan Vaidyas book titled We and the World Around here, Joshi expressed concern over the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and the Russia-Ukraine war.

World May Not Be Habitable Beyond 50 Years

Joshi expressed deep concern about the emerging situations in the world, saying it appears that humans may not be able to survive on Earth for more than 50 years. He referred to a warning issued by the then UN secretary general in 1979, who had said that if leaders did not give up the arms race and countries continued to attack each other and destroy nature, the world would face serious problems in the next 10-20 years. While humanity somehow managed to survive those 10-20 years, Joshi expressed doubts about the ability to endure the next 50 years. He emphasized that climate champions have already declared the situation as do-or-die.

World is Deeply Divided, Says Joshi

Joshi painted a grim picture of the current global situation, highlighting the prevalence of guns, rockets, bombings, massacres, threats, and warnings of another World War. He questioned the effectiveness of the United Nations, suggesting that it has become useless and its chief should resign. The veteran leader described the world as deeply divided, with a struggling global economy and repeated warnings from global institutions about uncertain outcomes. He characterized the world as highly turbulent, violent, and fundamentalist.

Indian Philosophy Offers Solution

Joshi asserted that peace is nowhere to be found in the world, which he described as out of balance and topsy turvy. He attributed the root cause of these global issues to the idea of "we and they" and the prevailing focus on the individual. In contrast, he extolled the virtues of Indian philosophy, which emphasizes moksha (liberation) as the ultimate objective. He urged people to embrace Indian spiritual thoughts and philosophy as the solution to the world's problems.

Understanding the RSS

Manmohan Vaidya, the RSS functionary and author of the book, acknowledged the difficulty in understanding the RSS from an outsider's perspective. However, he suggested that it becomes easier to comprehend once one becomes a part of the organization. Vaidya emphasized the need to understand India, particularly Indian thoughts, in order to truly understand the Sangh.

Sanatan Dharma and India's Existence

Juna Akhara Mahamandaleshwar Swami Avdheshanand Giri, another attendee at the event, highlighted the significance of Sanatan Dharma in India's existence. He praised India's age-old thoughts, knowledge, and traditions. Swami Avdheshanand Giri also drew attention to the fact that a substantial number of Muslims living in Israel support the country rather than Hamas, expressing concern about some Indians siding with Hamas.

Murli Manohar Joshi's grave warning about the world's current state and the need to turn to Indian philosophy for peace and prosperity serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing humanity. The ongoing conflicts, global divisions, and environmental crises demand urgent attention and innovative solutions. By embracing the wisdom of India's spiritual traditions, we may find the path to a more harmonious and sustainable future.
Opposition Questions; PM Modi's Invite For Ram Mandir Inauguration In Ayodhya A Pre-Electoral Tool?

India

oi-Stuti Tripathi

The invitation extended solely to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, scheduled for 22nd January, 2024, has raised concerns among opposition leaders. Opposition leaders on Thursday, 26th October question whether this event is becoming a political affair just ahead of the Lok Sabha election.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid voiced his concern, asking if the invitation was intended for only one party. "Is this becoming a party event now? God belongs to everyone. Every party should have received the invitation. They should have at least made it clear that everyone will being invited. I have not come across any such statement," HT quoted him saying.

Sanjay Raut, a leader from Shiv Sena (Uddhav), expressed his opinion that there was no need to send a formal invitation to PM Modi, as he would naturally attend such a significant event. He highlighted the historical context of the Ram Mandir's construction, involving numerous Hindutva organizations and parties, including Shiv Sena, Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, and LK Advani's Rath Yatra.

Raut said, "Ram Mandir was supposed to be built. Thousands of karsevaks have given their lives for it. All Hindutvavadi organisations and parties were involved. Shiv Sena, Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad were there... LK Advani took out a Rath Yatra. It is the result of all of this that Ram Mandir is being built... This is why PM Modi would go and perform prayers but I think that this is the preparation of the elections..."

Ram Temple Inauguration On Jan 22 In Ayodhya, PM Modi Says

Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath stressed that the Ram Mandir belongs to every citizen of India, regardless of political affiliation. "Does the Ram Mandir belong to the BJP? It belongs to everyone in our country. It is a very big symbol of our Sanatana Dharma. I am very happy that the Ram Mandir is finally being built," said, Kamal Nath as per the HT report.

DMK leader TKS Elangovan expressed skepticism regarding the political use of Ram's birth in the context of the BJP's actions. "What can I say? They have demolished history and replaced it with mythology. Any country should be proud of its history, it should know the history. Ram's birth is mythology, it is a story from Ramayana. It is literature. They want to replace history with mythology. That is what the BJP is trying to do. With these people in power, what can we expect?...He wants to make use of it as a political tool. He is not interested in Ram. BJP does not consider Ram as an important thing but their political gain becomes important so they are making use of Ram for their political gains," he said

The Shri Ram Janambhoomi Trust extended a special invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to place the idol of Lord Ram in the Garbhagriha of the Ram Mandir in the Ayodhya temple. The significant ceremony is scheduled for 22nd January, 2024. In response, Prime Minister Modi graciously accepted the invitation, expressing his deep appreciation for the opportunity to be part of this historic and momentous occasion.

 !



                              -          



        pic.twitter.com/rc801AraIn  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 25, 2023
MP Elections 2023: Check Out If It's BJP Or Congress For Various Castes In Latest Opinion Polls

Shivraj Singh Chouhan Begins Poll Campaign from Budhni, Urges People to Consider Themselves as Shivraj

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan began his poll campaign from his traditional Budhni seat by urging people to consider themselves as Shivraj and ensure his victory on the basis of welfare works he has done in his political career that started from Baktara in the constituency.

India

-Krishna Kripa

Bhopal, Oct 26: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Thursday began his poll campaign from his traditional Budhni seat by urging people to consider themselves as "Shivraj and ensure his victory on the basis of welfare works he has done in his political career that started from Baktara in the constituency.

Chouhan: 'You All Are Contesting the Polls Here by Becoming Shivraj'

"This is my birthplace, workplace, holy land as well as motherland, an emotional Chouhan said. He is pitted against the Congress Vikram Mastal, a resident of Salkanpur town in Budhni, who gained fame as Hanuman in the 2008 television serial Ramayan.

"I have not arrived here to give a speech but to tell you that you all are contesting the polls here by becoming Shivraj. You ensure my victory from here and I will ensure the partys victory in the rest of the state, said Chouhan who started the tour of his constituency by touching his forehead to the ground in his ancestral Jait village.

Chouhan Says He Has Served the People with True Heart

He said he had served the people with a true heart and had ensured change in the lives of women and girls, provided irrigation facilities, constructed roads and stood by them in their pain and sorrow.

The CM said he hardly played any game in his childhood since he was struggling for the people of the region, adding that he went to jail during Emergency.

Chouhan Takes Care of All Sections of Society

In Shahganj town in the constituency, where Muslims placed a pagdi on his head, Chouhan said he would take care of the area, adding that he had served all sections of society without discrimination.

During his tour of Budhni, at several places people offered him money as a token of their affection.

Chouhan Has Won from Budhni Several Times

Chouhan won from Budhni for the first time in 1990 and later represented Vidisha Lok Sabha for five terms. After becoming CM for the first time in 2005, he won a bypoll in 2006 and went on to register victories in 2008, 2013 and 2018.

In the 2018 Assembly elections, Chouhan defeated former Union Minister Arun Yadav by a margin of 58,999 votes. Assembly polls in MP will be held on November 17 and counting of votes will take place on December 3.
Case Against 'People Of India' Was About Substantial Imitation: Humans of Bombay Founder

Soumya Vishwanathan Murder Case: Sentencing Hearing Set For November 7

India

oi-Madhuri Adnal

Delhi's Saket court on Thursday posted the matter on November 7 for the consideration of affidavits, reports, and arguments related to the sentencing in the 2008 Soumya Vishwanathan murder case.

Vishwanathan, who was working with a leading English news channel, was shot dead in the early hours of September 30, 2008 on south Delhi's Nelson Mandela Marg while she was returning home from work. Police claimed the motive was robbery.

Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Ravindra Kumar Pandey noted that some documents, including the pre-sentencing report (PSR) by the probationary officer along with the affidavits of the five convicts had not been filed.

Directing that the reports and affidavits be prepared, the judge listed the matter for further proceedings on November 7.

On October 18, the court convicted Ravindra Kumar Pandey, Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik and Ajay Kumar for the crime.

Furthermore, the court has called upon the state to provide an affidavit elucidating the socio-economic backgrounds of the accused. It is essential to note that the murder charge was not pursued against Ajay Sethi, as his involvement was primarily linked to the vehicle theft and his association with a criminal organisation.

The tragic incident occurred on September 30, 2008, when Soumya Vishwanathan was fatally shot while returning home from work in her car around 3:30 AM.

EXCLUSIVE: Soumya Vishwanathans Mother Seeks Life Term For Killers, Calls For Swift Justice For Safer India

Five individuals - Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik, Ajay Kumar, and Ajay Sethi - were taken into custody for her murder and have been detained since March 2009. The police invoked the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against the accused.

Notably, Malik, along with Ravi Kapoor and Amit Shukla, had previously been convicted in the 2009 killing of IT executive Jigisha Ghosh. The recovery of the weapon used in Jigisha Ghosh's murder had played a pivotal role in cracking the Soumya Vishwanathan murder case, as the police reported.

In the initial trial, Kapoor and Shukla were sentenced to death, while Malik received a life term in the Jigisha Ghosh murder case in 2017. However, the following year, the high court commuted the death sentences of Kapoor and Shukla to life imprisonment and upheld Malik's life sentence in the Jigisha murder case. This development marked a significant turn in the legal proceedings.
Telangana Polls: Cong Leaders Flocking To BRS Over Denial Of Tickets

Ahead Of Elections, SBI Sells Rs 1,148 Crore In Bonds; Most Sold In Hyderabad

Why Muslim Votes Matter For BRS-AIMIM In Telangana Elections

YSR Telangana Party Not To Contest Assembly Polls, To Support Congress

Telangana Polls: KCR To Campaign In Three Places

India

oi-PTI

Ruling BRS president and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao will address rallies in Achampet, Wanaparthy and Munugode segments on Thursday for the November 30 assembly polls.

Rao, also known as KCR, is addressing the rallies after a break due to the Dussehra festival.

On October 27, he will speak at public meetings in Palair, Mahabubabad and Wardhannapet.

Rao's campaign will be on till November 9 when he will submit his nomination from Gajwel and Kamareddy constituencies.

Telangana Pre Poll Survey: Hung Assembly, BRS Likely To Win 43-55 Seats, Predicts ABP-CVoter Opinion Poll

He is representing Gajwel in Siddipet district in the outgoing legislative assembly.

Rao had kicked off his campaign on October 15 at Husnabad in Siddipet district after releasing the BRS manifesto in Hyderabad.

Polling will be held in Telangana on November 30 and votes will be counted on December 3.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 10:08 [IST]
US journalist who wore rainbow T-shirt to FIFA World Cup match dies under mysterious circumstances

US Government Clears Way for Release of Detained Americans by Transferring Iranian Funds

Who Are The 8 Ex-Indian Navy Officers Sentenced To Death By Qatari Court?

India

oi-Prakash KL

India on Thursday said it is "deeply shocked" over a Qatari court handing the death penalty to eight Indian former officers in the Indian Navy and said it is exploring all legal options in the case.

The eight former Indian Navy personnel have been in jail since August last year. The charges against them were not made public by Qatari authorities.

Who Are 8 Indian Navy Officers sentenced to death?

As per a report in NDTV, the men include decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships. They were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatar's armed forces.

One among them was working on a highly sensitive project -- Italian technology-based midget submarines with stealth characteristics, the report said citing sources.

The ex-Indian Navy officers are: Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Commander Amit Nagpal, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, and Sailor Ragesh.

One of the individuals in detention is Commander (retd) Purnendu Tiwari, an Indian expatriate who was honored with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award in 2019.

In its reaction, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it is attaching "high importance" to this case and is exploring all legal options.

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," it said.

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it said.

The MEA said it will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance to the Indians.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it said in a statement.

"Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," it added.

India's ambassador to Qatar met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 20:33 [IST]
Greenpeace urges Greece to abandon deep-sea gas project

Greenpeace urges Greece to abandon a deep-sea gas exploration project in the Mediterranean, citing newly published research to argue that its impact on endangered whales and dolphins would be greater than previously believed.

International

-Sathish Raman

Greenpeace on Thursday urged Greece to abandon a deep-sea gas exploration project in the Mediterranean, citing newly published research to argue that its impact on endangered whales and dolphins would be greater than previously believed.

Environmental Concerns

The environmental group said a survey last year in waters off southwestern Greece and Crete that are earmarked for exploratory drilling found sea mammals were present there in the winter, as well as the summer, as had been already established. The area being explored for gas largely overlaps the Hellenic Trench, which includes the Mediterraneans deepest waters, at 5,267 meters 17,300 feet. It is a vital habitat for the seas few hundred sperm whales, and for other marine mammals already threatened by fishing, collisions with ships and plastic pollution.

Current environmental safeguards in place for the project limit prospection to the winter, to less impact whale and dolphin, or cetacean, breeding periods. But the survey published Thursday in the Endangered Species Research journal found that at least four species of cetaceans  including sperm whales and Cuviers beaked whales  were present in the area all year round.

Ecological Importance

Kostis Grimanis from Greenpeace Greece said that part of the Mediterranean is of "huge ecological importance. "And yet, the government and oil companies are obsessively pursuing hydrocarbon exploration in these waters, he said. "This is an absurd crime against nature. It will not only be detrimental to these iconic marine fauna species, but to our fight against the climate crisis, by seeking to exploit undersea fossil fuels.

Call to Action

Greenpeace called on the government to cancel all offshore drilling permits. In 2019, Greece granted exploration rights for two blocks of seabed south and southwest of the island of Crete to an international energy consortium, and smaller projects are under way farther north. This year, ExxonMobil and Greeces Helleniq Energy completed a three-month seismic survey of the seabed in the two big blocks, and the Greek government says initial exploratory drilling could start there in 2025. Officials say the strictest environmental standards are being followed.

Seismic Surveys and Noise Pollution

The seismic survey bounces sonic blasts off the seabed to identify potential gas deposits, a process that would be deafening to sound-sensitive cetaceans. Sonar used by warships has been shown to have deadly effects on whales, and experts say seismic surveys can do the same. Drilling and extracting gas would also cause significant undersea noise, according to environmentalists.

New Research Findings

The new report, by Greenpeace Greece, the University of Exeter and the Athens-based Pelagos Cetacean Research Institute, detected at least five species of cetaceans in 166 encounters  including 14 sperm whales  in winter 2022. It followed similar research during summer months.

The deep-sea gas exploration project in the Mediterranean has raised significant concerns among environmentalists, particularly Greenpeace. The newly published research suggests that the project's impact on endangered whales and dolphins would be greater than previously believed. Greenpeace urges the Greek government to abandon the project and prioritize the protection of the marine environment and its endangered species.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The opening ceremony of the Critical Infrastructure Defense Challenge 2023 (CIDC-2023) event organized by the State Service of Special Communication and Information Security of Azerbaijan jointly with the State Security Service of Azerbaijan is being held at the Baku Congress Center, Trend reports.

Lieutenant General Ilgar Musayev, head of the State Service for Special Communication and Information Security of Azerbaijan, made an opening speech at the event.

Within the framework of the event, for the first time in Azerbaijan, the final of the Cyberwarfare competition will be held with the aim of developing defense skills of critical information systems against cyberattacks and management of information systems in crisis situations. At the competition, which will be held with the simulation of cyber attacks, participating teams must ensure the security of virtual information systems. A total of 20 teams have made it to the finals. The winner will be announced on the second day of the event.

There will also be a presentation and panel discussions on information security issues, as well as free professional development trainings. Trainers include both local and foreign experts. During the two days of the event, participants will have the opportunity to attend trainings and an exhibition of cybersecurity solutions, participate in contests and virtual quizzes and win prizes. Those who pass the trainings will receive a certificate.

The event is organized to improve information security practices, enhance the knowledge and skills of employees of government agencies, critical infrastructure, financial and telecommunications sectors, and strengthen networking and coordination between the public and private sectors.
Israel-Hamas War: Al-Jazeera Bureau Chief's Family Killed In Israeli Air Strikes

International

oi-Stuti Tripathi

Tragedy has struck the family of Wael Dahdouh, Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau chief in Gaza, as they fell victim to an Israeli air raid. In a heart-wrenching moment captured on Al Jazeera, Dahdouh entered the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir el-Balah to confront the loss of his wife, son, and daughter, who had perished in the attack.

The footage showed Dahdouh crouching beside the lifeless body of his 15-year-old son, Mahmoud, who aspired to follow in his father's footsteps as a journalist. Later, he was seen tenderly holding his seven-year-old daughter, Sham, whose bloodied face bore the marks of the assault on the Nuseirat refugee camp.

Shaken and visibly distraught, Dahdouh spoke to Al Jazeera as he left the hospital, condemning the series of targeted attacks on children, women, and civilians. He lamented that he had recently reported on a similar attack in Yarmouk and voiced his concerns about the Israeli raids in various areas, including Nuseirat.

Israel-Hamas War: Latest On Ground Offensive, Death Toll, Fuel Crisis, Hostages, UN Meets As Gaza Suffers

"What happened is clear," he asserted. "This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women, and civilians. I was just reporting from Yarmouk about such an attack, and the Israeli raids have targeted many areas, including Nuseirat. We had our doubts that the Israeli occupation would not let these people go without punishing them. And sadly, that is what happened. This is the 'safe' area that the occupation army spoke of." said Dahdouh as quoted by Al Jazeera.

Tragically, Dahdouh's grandson, Adam, was declared dead two hours later. However, some members of his family, including a toddler granddaughter, managed to survive the attack on the house where they had sought refuge in the Nuseirat refugee camp south of Wadi Gaza.

Rescue operations are ongoing to free individuals trapped in the wreckage of their home.

Dahdouh's son, Yehia, sustained injuries during the attack, necessitating an emergency procedure to address a severe head wound. Amid the chaos, doctors had to perform the procedure in a hospital corridor, struggling to find appropriate instruments and ultimately using non-surgical thread to stitch the wound, as reported by Al Jazeera Arabic.

In a statement, Al Jazeera Media Network expressed the devastating loss and the dire situation faced by Dahdouh and his family, emphasizing that their home was targeted in the Nuseirat camp in the heart of Gaza. "The indiscriminate assault by the Israeli occupation forces resulted in the tragic loss of [Dahdouh's] wife, son and daughter, while the rest of his family is buried under the rubble," the statement reads

The family had sought refuge there after being displaced due to the initial bombardment in their neighborhood, following Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's call for civilians to move south. The statement further reads, "Their home was targeted in the Nuseirat camp in the centre of Gaza, where they had sought refuge after being displaced by the initial bombardment in their neighbourhood, following [Israeli] Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu's call for all civilians to move south."

Israel All Set For A 'Lethal' Attack From 'Land, Sea and Air' On Gaza In Ongoing War With Hamas

Dahdouh, a dedicated journalist, has remained steadfast in Gaza, reporting on the plight of those affected by the ongoing conflict, despite the risks and warnings.

Al Jazeera's Youmna Elsayed speaking from Gaza said, "It's heartbreaking to be reporting about Wael's family and to see how broken he is. He calms everyone. He speaks to us like a big brother, not just a bureau chief...He didn't leave Gaza City. He stayed despite all the threats and warnings and didn't stop for 19 days in a row. He said, 'I must be here in Gaza City to report about these people who are getting bombed every day.' as quoted by Al Jazeera.
Israel Airstrikes Devastate Gaza Strip, Relief Operations Jeopardized

Increased Israeli airstrikes are devastating parts of the Gaza Strip, jeopardizing relief operations and leaving neighborhoods in shambles. The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides.

International

-Sathish Raman

Increased Israeli airstrikes are devastating parts of the Gaza Strip, jeopardizing relief operations and leaving neighborhoods in shambles. A strike in the Nusseirat refugee camp on Wednesday killed several family members of one of Al Jazeera TVs chief correspondents, Wael Dahdouh. Strikes elsewhere destroyed homes and businesses and left many digging through the debris. Health care facilities are doing their best to treat the wounded, but with supplies that are becoming scarce.

The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees says its relief operations across the Gaza Strip will need to be curtailed amid the airstrikes. The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Health Ministry said Wednesday that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and 1,650 wounded in violence and Israeli raids since Oct. 7.

Families of Abducted Israelis Meet with Italys Prime Minister

ROMERelatives of Israelis held hostage by Hamas met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Wednesday to speak about their anguish and raise awareness for their loved ones plight in Gaza. Nadav Kipniss parents, Evyatar and Lilich Kipnis, were found dead days after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. His cousin is being held captive.

"None of them deserved to be treated in such horrible ways. We have to spread the message of anything that can help. Its what my parents would have wanted, Kipnis said. Ilan Regevs two children, 21-year-old Maya and 18-year-old Itay, were kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival. Hamas has said it seeks the release of all Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in exchange for the captives. "Give them everything, 4,000, 5,000 prisoners in Israel. I dont care, these are children, babies, bring them back, Regev said.

Since the militants bloody attack more than two weeks ago, Meloni has traveled to Israel and visited Romes main synagogue, where she pledged to defend Jewish citizens against "every form of antisemitism.

Israeli Strike Kills Family Members of Al Jazeera Bureau Chief in Gaza

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip  An Israeli strike on Wednesday killed the wife, son, and young daughter of Al Jazeera Arabics bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh. Footage aired on the Qatar-based TV network showed the veteran journalist, still wearing his blue body armor marked "press, weeping over his sons corpse on a hospital floor. "They take vengeance on us through our children? he sobbed. Another son, Yehia, was seriously wounded, and Dahdouhs grandson was also declared dead two hours later, the network reported. Other relatives survived the Israeli strike, including a toddler granddaughter.

"This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women, and civilians, Dahdouh, looking stunned, told Al Jazeera as he left the hospital. The media network released a statement condemning what it called an "indiscriminate assault on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. The camp is south of the area Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate. In Gaza, Al Jazeeras Youmna Elsayed told the network: "Its heartbreaking to be reporting about Waels family and to see how broken he is.

U.N. Security Council Fails Again to Pass Resolution on Israel-Hamas War

UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. Security Council has failed again to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions. The U.S. resolution would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for "humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza. Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council was 10 countries in favor, 3 against, and 2 abstentions. The resolution was not adopted because both Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution would have called for an immediate "humanitarian cease-fire, and unequivocally condemned Hamas Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and "indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza. The vote was 4 in favor, 2 against, and 9 abstentions. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine "yes votes. The council is charged under the U.N. Charter with maintaining international peace and security. But Wednesdays rejections, following its rejections last week of a Russian resolution and a Brazilian proposal, leave the Security Council divided and paralyzed in taking action on the Israeli-Hamas war. Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier told reporters before the vote that if both resolutions failed, she would attempt to draft a compromise resolution.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Russia of submitting its text with no consultations "in bad faith. Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called the U.S. draft a "politicized proposal to shore up Israel.

Iraqi Militant Group Says It Attacked Base Housing U.S. Forces in Syria

BAGHDAD  An Iranian-backed group in Iraq claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base housing U.S. forces in eastern Syria on Wednesday, as a string of attacks targeting U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria persist. The Islamic Resistance group in Iraq, an umbrella organization for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it had struck the Kharab al-Jir base in the northeastern Hassakeh province with rockets. It said it hit its target, without making any mention of casualties.

Washington did not immediately comment on the attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a call Monday with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani, urged Sudani "to pursue those behind the attacks and fulfill Iraqs commitment to maintain the security at these installations, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement Tuesday. The past week has seen a spate of more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq in Syria, most of them claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against Americas backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

Biden Condemns Attacks on Palestinians by Israeli Settlers in the West Bank

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Wednesday said there is no going back to the "status quo in Israel and the region following the deadly attack by Hamas on Oct. 7. "When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next, Biden said during a news conference at the White House with the Prime Minister of Australia. "And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution. Biden said again that he believed Israeli had the right  the "responsibility  to respond to the attack.

"The anger, the hurt, the sense of outrage that the Israeli people are feeling following the attack is "completely understandable, he said. But he also decried the attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, and said it must stop and "stop now, and he said he remained focused on humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Airstrike in Gaza City Kills More Than 2 Dozen and Injures Over 100, Hamas Says

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on Wednesday killed at least 26 people and injured more than 100, Hamas Interior Ministry said. Bodies of dead men and women were scattered in streets that had relatively little damage while a block of buildings lay in ruins with people searching for survivors. Two wounded young boys embraced each other and appeared to be crying as a first responder and three other men carried them to safety on a stretcher. A man with blood running from his scalp into his eye and down his cheek looked stunned as he sat on what remained of a sofa propped in the rubble, while a girl, who was also wounded, hugged him.

Frances Macron Angles for International Coalition to Fight Hamas

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron is promoting, with little success so far, the creation of an international coalition to fight the armed Palestinian group Hamas. He pitched the idea during a two-day trip to the Middle East that started in Israel. Leaders he met with in Israel, the West Bank, Jordan, and Egypt didnt publicly address the issue. The first response to the devastating Israel-Hamas war is "the fight against terrorism, Macron said Wednesday after his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi. "The right response is to cooperate, to draw lessons from the international coalition against the Islamic State group that intervened in Iraq and Syria, he added.

Macron first proposed the idea Tuesday after his meeting with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, mentioning a "regional and international coalition against Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu did not specifically comment on the proposal.

U.S. Embassy in Kuwait to Limit Activity on Military Bases After Iraqi Militias Threats

JERUSALEM  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is acknowledging an Iraqi militias threat to target U.S. military bases in the Mideast nation over the Israeli airstrikes targeting the Gaza Strip in its war on Hamas. In a statement to American citizens, the embassy identified the threat as coming from Awliya Waad al-Haq, or "The True Promise Brigades. That group, believed allied with Iran, has claimed an attack previously on the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. "As a result, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is limiting its activity on U.S. military bases to essential and official events only, the embassy said in an alert.

Netanyahu Says He Will Be Held Accountable for Hamas Attack

JERUSALEM  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will be held accountable for the bloody Oct. 7 massacre by Hamas militants, but that will only come after Israels war against the Islamic militant group. In a nationally televised address Wednesday night, Netanyahu said he was busy plotting a ground invasion of Gaza, though he refused to say when that might happen. He also expressed sorrow over the attack, which killed more than 1,400 Israelis and saw over 200 others taken captive in Gaza. "Oct. 7 is a black day in our history, he said. "We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border around Gaza. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

France to Send Navy Ship to Bring Aid to Gaza Strip, Macron Says

CAIRO  French President Emmanuel Macron said France is going to send a Navy ship to bring aid to hospitals in the Gaza Strip. The ship will leave the French military port of Toulon, in the Mediterranean Sea, within 48 hours, he said. He didnt provide further details. In addition, a French plane will arrive in Egypt on Thursday to deliver medical equipment via a convoy to Gaza. "Others will follow, Macron said, adding that France wants to provide Gazas civilian population access to medicine and medical care.

Macrons visit to Egypt comes as part of a two-day tour to the Middle East that started with a visit to Israel meant to show Frances support and solidarity following the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. The trip included a stop in Ramallah, in the West Bank, to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and another stop Wednesday morning in Jordan for talks with King Abdullah II. Macron in Egypt said, "Theres no double standard  international law applies to everyone. "All victims deserve our compassion, our commitment toward a fair and sustainable peace in the Middle East, he added.
PM Modi Lauds India's Shooting Stars for Their Stellar Performance in the Asian Games

US: At Least 22 Dead In Maine Shooting, Dozens Injured As Gunman Goes On Rampage

Massive Manhunt Unfolds In Maine, U.S.; Who Is Robert Card And What Else Is Going On

US: Amid Massive Manhunt For Maine Suspect, Residents Remain Behind Locked Doors

Lewiston US Authorities Conduct Intensive Search for Army Reservist Accused of Shooting 18 People

Maine Shooting: Schools Closed, Manhunt Still Underway - Top 10 Developments

International

oi-Prakash KL

A man went on a shooting spree in Lewiston in Maine on Wednesday, killing at least 16 people at a bowling alley and restaurant, sparking a massive police manhunt.

An extensive manhunt, mobilizing hundreds of law enforcement officers, is in progress following the devastating shootings that rocked this community of roughly 38,000 residents.

Here Are the Top 10 Developments:

The accused is identified as Robert Card, 40, of Bowdoin. Police have scheduled a press conference for 10:30 am ET even as the manhunt to capture him is on. He is a firearms instructor who received training from the US military at a facility located in Saco, Maine, as indicated in a state police bulletin obtained by CBS. The bulletin further mentioned that he had been at a mental health facility during the summer of 2023 and had made threats about carrying out a shooting at the military base. The Lewiston shootings occurred at both a bowling alley and Schemengees Bar & Grille, as reported by the Police Department on Facebook. Justin Juray, one of the bowling alley's owners, described the situation there as "utter chaos." The bowling alley is approximately four miles away from the bar. "None of this seems real, but unfortunately it is," Just-In-Time Recreation wrote on their Facebook page. "We are devastated for our community and our staff. We lost some amazing and whole hearted people from our bowling family and community last night. There are no words to fix this or make it better. We praying for everyone who has been affected by this horrific tragedy. We love you all and hold you close in our hearts." Maine State Police took to Facebook to urge residents to protect themselves. "ALERT: There is an active shooter situation in the city of Lewiston. Law enforcement is asking people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911," the post says. The Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office has issued images of the suspected individual holding a firearm. "Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large," it wrote on Facebook. On Thursday, President Biden issued a proclamation directing that all US flags be displayed at half-staff at the White House, military installations, and all federal buildings in tribute to the victims of the tragedy in Lewiston, Maine, until October 30th. On Wednesday evening, the White House issued a statement in which President Biden "spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack." Over 200 institutions, including several schools, in Maine have remained closed on Thursday. Central Maine Community College, Bates College and the University of Southern Maine-Lewiston were all closed as well.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 19:57 [IST]
US: At Least 22 Dead In Maine Shooting, Dozens Injured As Gunman Goes On Rampage

Massive Manhunt Unfolds In Maine, U.S.; Who Is Robert Card And What Else Is Going On

International

oi-Stuti Tripathi

A massive manhunt is currently in progress in the state of Maine, following a tragic event that unfolded Wedesday, 25th October night. A man identified as Robert Card, a former Army reserve firearms instructor who had previously been sectioned for mental health reasons, is suspected of being involved in a shooting spree that resulted in the loss of 22 lives across multiple locations in Lewiston.

The 'Person of Interest' - Robert Card

Robert Card, aged 40 and hailing from Bowdoin, Maine, has been named by the Maine state police as a 'person of interest' in these devastating shootings, which occurred at a bowling alley, a restaurant, and a Walmart distribution center.

As per various foreign media reports, Card's background reveals a troubling history, as he has been previously arrested for domestic violence. Furthermore, he was committed to a mental health facility after expressing that he was hearing voices and had threatened to carry out an attack on his National Guard base in Saco, Maine, according to The Maine Information and Analysis Center.

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The Grim Unfolding of the Shooting Spree

During the rampage, Card was armed with an AR-15-style rifle equipped with laser optics, and he initiated the tragic events by entering a bowling alley at 7:15 pm.

Law enforcement officials discovered Card's 2013 white Subaru in the town of Lisbon, approximately seven miles southeast of Lewiston, although Card himself was not located as per a report in the Dailymail UK.

Mike Sauschuck, a law enforcement spokesperson in Lewiston, cautioned that Card is to be considered armed and dangerous, urging the public not to approach him under any circumstances.

US: At Least 22 Dead In Maine Shooting, Dozens Injured As Gunman Goes On Rampage

A shelter-in-place order remains in effect for Lewiston, and this precautionary measure has now extended to Lisbon, where Card's vehicle was discovered.

The Tragic Toll: Loss of Lives and Injuries

The grim outcome of this incident has been confirmed by the Lewiston city administrator, with 22 lives lost and an estimated 50 to 60 individuals injured as per a report in FOX news. Local hospitals in Maine declared a mass casualty event, as this represents one of the deadliest mass shootings to occur this year.

Multiple Locations Affected

The locations affected by the tragedy include the Sparetime bowling alley, Schemengee's bar and grill, and a Walmart distribution center, though it is crucial to note that the shooting did not take place within the Walmart facility itself.

FBI's Involvement

The response to this devastating incident involved a massive law enforcement effort, with the FBI's Boston Division prepared to provide any necessary assistance. 'The FBI Boston Division continues to coordinate with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners in Maine and we stand ready to assist with any available resources they need, including evidence response, investigative and tactical support, as well as victim assistance,' the Bureau said as quoted by Dailymail UK.

Incriminating Visual Evidence

A photograph released by sheriffs captured a white man wielding an AR-15-style rifle with a laser optic as he entered the Sparetime recreation center, dressed in black combat trousers and a brown top. His face is clearly identifiable.

Additionally, the Lewiston police released an image of the white station wagon they were actively seeking, which may have a black-painted bumper.

Gunman Kills Three in Rotterdam Shooting Spree

Urgent Public Safety Announcement

Maine state police issued a warning of an active shooter situation in Lewiston, urging residents to shelter in place and secure their homes.

A Series of Tragic Events Unfold

The series of tragic events began at 6:56 pm, with police responding to the initial call at Sparetime bowling alley at 7:15 pm. Subsequent calls were made from Schemengee's bar and grill, located approximately four miles away. Finally, a call was received from the Walmart distribution center at 8:15 pm, according to Derrick St. Laurent, a Lewiston spokesman. It's worth noting that this incident did not occur on Walmart property itself.

Political Leaders Respond

Political leaders, including Janet Mills, the governor of Maine, expressed their condolences and urged residents to follow the guidance of law enforcement. The governor emphasized her commitment to monitor the situation closely and maintain contact with public safety officials, reported the Dailymail UK.

Chellie Pingree, a Democratic representative, pointed out that Maine is not like large cities, which contributes to the close-knit community atmosphere. She expressed deep sympathy for the grieving families affected by this tragedy.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams conveyed his condolences and frustration in response to the shooting, emphasizing the need for change and action to address such devastating incidents.

Firearm Ownership in Maine

Maine has a significant level of gun ownership and relatively lenient firearm laws, with a large proportion of households possessing firearms. However, according to media reports, the state sees comparatively few fatal shootings each year, with the majority of gun deaths attributed to suicide, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

A Separate School Threat

In a separate incident, a threat was made to a school in Lewiston, but it was later determined to be unrelated to the shooting that occurred on Wednesday, 25th October. The individual responsible for the threat was identified as a 10-year-old residing in the Midwest. Lewiston Public Schools assured parents that they would operate as usual, as law enforcement had addressed the situation.

These heartbreaking events have left the community of Lewiston and its neighboring areas in shock and mourning, with numerous lives forever altered by the tragedy.
US President Joe Biden Connects Recent Hamas Attack To India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor

International

oi-Stuti Tripathi

In a press conference held in Washington alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, US President Joe Biden raised the possibility of a connection between the recent terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel and an ambitious infrastructure project introduced during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi.

The project in question is the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC), which was launched earlier in the year with the goal of establishing an extensive railway network to connect the entire region.

President Biden, while acknowledging that he lacked concrete proof, voiced his instinctual belief that one of the factors motivating the Hamas attack was the progress being made toward regional integration for Israel and the broader region.

Biden said, "I'm convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did - and I have no proof of this; just my instinct tells me - is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel and regional integration overall. And we can't leave that work behind." as quoted by News18.

'Israel Can Make Their Own Decisions': Biden On Ground Invasion Of Gaza

IMEEC as an Alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative

The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) is widely regarded as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative. It was jointly announced by leaders from the US, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union during the G20 summit in September. IMEEC comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor linking the Gulf region to Europe.

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Biden Advocates Regional Cooperation

President Biden highlighted the significance of increased cooperation in the region, emphasizing that Middle Eastern nations working together both economically and politically could significantly alter the dynamics. "And so, I - I just think that it is - it's something that it's in everyone's interest - including, long-term, in China's interest," Biden further added.

IMEEC Mentioned Twice in Connection with Hamas Attack

This marks the second occasion in less than a week when President Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a possible influence behind the 7th October attack by Hamas, which resulted in the loss of more than 1,400 lives. The subsequent Israeli military response in Gaza has also claimed the lives of over 6,000 Palestinians till now.

Biden On Hamas Attack: They Knew I Was About To Sit Down With The Saudis

Impact of the Conflict

Since the onset of the conflict, Israeli airstrikes have caused severe damage in the Gaza Strip. As per media reports, the United Nations has warned that it is on the brink of running out of fuel in the densely populated enclave, necessitating a sharp reduction in relief efforts. In addition, on Wednesday, 25th October the UN Security Council has failed to address the Israeli-Hamas war, as it rejected rival resolutions presented by the United States and Russia.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 15:07 [IST]
Donald Trump Jr. Testifies He Never Worked on His Father's Financial Statements

US: Trump Fined $10,000 For Violating Court Gag Order

International

dwnews-DW News

Former US President Donald Trump was fined $10,000 (9,500) for violating a gag order during a court appearance in a New York fraud trial Wednesday.

Trump allegedly told one of Judge Arthur Engoron clerk's during a trial break: "This judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who's very partisan sitting beside him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is."

Engoron called Trump's statement a "blatant" violation of his gag order.

The gag order, which bars Trump from insulting court staff, was handed down on October 3 by Engoron, who is overseeing Trump's civil fraud trial.

Trump Vows To Ban Refugees From Gaza And Expand Muslim Travel Ban

It is the second time Trump has violated the gag order. Just last week, Trump was fined $5,000 for violating the order for the first time after leaving a social media post online maligning the judge's principal law clerk.

Trump 'fixer' Cohen testifies

After his court appearance, Trump addressed reporters and disparaged his former attorney and confidant, Michael Cohen, calling him a proven liar.

Cohen has testified that he was given an incentive to cook up numbers that would bolster his former boss' claims, saying he and other associates made sure the figures came out to, "whatever number Mr. Trump told us."

Cohen served three years in jail after pleading guilty to tax fraud, campaign finance violations and perjury.

Among other things, Cohen was convicted of trying to cover up hush money payments Trump made to former adult film star Stephanie Clifford, more recognizable by her screen name, Stormy Daniels. Trump and Daniels had an affair, which he sought to hide during his 2016 candidacy before being elected president.

Trump's lawyers have attacked Cohen's credibility and grilled the former fixer, who took the stand for the second day in a trial that could drive the real estate mogul out of business in New York.

Trump Says He Stands With Israel, Netanyahu After GOP Rivals Denounce Him

What is the civil case about?

Judge Engoron has already found Trump and his business fraudulently inflated and deflated the value of properties depending on whether he was dealing with investors or tax authorities.

Trump, far and away the frontrunner for the Republican nomination for the 2024 presidential election, has denied any wrongdoing.

The New York case, one of several legal battles Trump is entangled in, regards damages sought by New York Attorney General Letitia James.

The non-jury trial will be decided by Engoron and could see the former businessman fined $250 million, bar he and his sons Eric and Don Jr from doing business in New York and impose a five-year ban on Trump and the Trump Organization from dealing in commercial real estate.

Source: DW
Air India Deploys New Boeing 777 Aircraft To All 3 US Destinations From Mumbai

My Career Has Been My Film Set, I Created It On Hustle: Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Maharashtra CM Announces Rs 10 lakh Assitance To Kin Of Agniveer Who Died In Siachen Glacier

Mumbai

oi-PTI

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday announced an assistance of Rs 10 lakh to the family of Agniveer Akshay Laxman Gawate, who died in the line of duty in Siachen last week.

Shinde also expressed condolences to the family over the death of Gawate, who hailed from Pimpalgaon Sarai in Buldhana district of Maharashtra, as per a statement.

Situated at an altitude of around 20,000 feet in the Karakoram mountain range, Siachen is known as the world's highest militarised zone, where soldiers have to battle extreme cold and strong winds.

Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande and all ranks of the force had condoled the death of Agniveer Gawate.

Agniveer Amritpal Singh Committed suicide, Military Honours Not Extended To His Funeral As Per Rules: Army

''All ranks of Fire and Fury Corps salute the supreme sacrifice of #Agniveer (Operator) Gawate Akshay Laxman, in the line of duty, in the unforgiving heights of #Siachen and offer deepest condolences to the family,'' the Army's Leh-headquartered Fire and Fury Corps said on X on Sunday.

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Story first published: Thursday, October 26, 2023, 11:29 [IST]
Mark Coulton says calling for the respect of civilians in conflicts should not be a radical position.
EU leaders meeting in Brussels have called for "humanitarian corridors" to allow aid deliveries in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel has said it is preparing for the "next phase" of the conflict. Follow DW for more.
Washington Post 04 Nov 2023

Secretary of State Antony Blinken is due to meet Jordanian leaders in Amman, after a visit to Tel Aviv where he called for..
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The US continues to support the development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), or the so-called Middle Corridor, Robin Dunnigan, US Ambassador to Georgia, said, Trend reports.

She has made the remark at the Silk Road Forum in Tbilisi.

"It's good to see what Georgia has achieved in the development of the 'Middle Corridor,' what has been done in terms of roads, railways, and ports. The US and its companies continue to support and participating in this development because we understand the true value of the Middle Corridor and Georgia's role in it," she said.

According to the ambassador, the Silk Road Forum is essential for bringing together the private and public sectors of the countries within the Middle Corridor to support the development of this crucial transit route.

"As an ambassador, I fully endorse the Middle Corridor. I believe that the Tbilisi Silk Road Forum is crucial for uniting the private and public sectors of the 'Middle Corridor' countries to support the development of this significant transit route. This cannot be achieved without collaboration between the private and public sectors. I commend the Prime Minister and the Georgian government for hosting this important forum," Robin Dannigan stated.

The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor.

The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe.

The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.
CNA 28 Oct 2023

Pope Francis invoke the Virgin Mary as the Queen of Peace and Mother of Mercy at a prayer vigil for peace in St. Peter's Basilica,..
New House Speaker Mike Johnson has a full plate ahead of him as he steps behind the gavel with government funding, the war in Israel and the border crisis looming.
On October 24, it became clear to the United Nations (UN) that the sustained bombardment of Gazawhich had already killed 6,500..

Eurasia Review 28 Oct 2023
Rumble 27 Oct 2023

In the aftermath of another horrifying mass shooting in Maine, the usual partisan battle lines are drawn over so-called assault..
The Republican Jewish Coalition gathers in Las Vegas this weekend, drawing G.O.P. leaders and candidates at a moment of unique peril for Israel and American Jewry.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that the Hamas militant group is not a terrorist organization and later canceled his planned trip to Israel.


(Image by Josh Evnin) Details DMCA



In the aftermath of Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel, some fringe-left factions are forming alliances with anti-Zionist entities. These groups demonstrate solidarity with Hamas' acts of violence, justifying them as "resistance" and "liberation."

The Party for Socialism and Liberation, the World Workers Party, chapters affiliated with the Democratic Socialists for America, independent chapters associated with Black Lives Matter, and several other organizations have expressed similar perspectives via public statements and on various social media platforms. These organizations are furthermore involved in coordinating physical gatherings that oppose Israel, during which attendees express further endorsement of terrorism and violence, with the dissemination of antisemitic discourse.

The assertions made by these individuals are erroneous and fall outside the bounds of acceptability within the political discourse... Terrorism, as an expression of resistance, lacks legitimacy in its essence.

Even if you oppose Israel's apartheid state, as I do, terrorism is never acceptable.

Consider that former President George Bush conducted an illegal war against Iraq and committed war crimes; does this imply that terrorists may target Americans? Should random innocent civilians pay the price?

The Democratic Socialists of America of Salt Lake City Utah published a "Statement on Palestinian Liberation" on October 7, 2023, expressing their "unwavering solidarity with the people of Palestine in their decades-long fight for national liberation" and urging Americans "to stand up against settler-colonial, Zionist apartheid". The statement declared the group's full support for the terrorist attack on Israeli civilians, writing that "it is not terrorism or anti-semitism to fight against this injustice."

The Democratic Socialists of America of Long Beach California wrote on October 10, 2023, that their group "fully supports and stands in solidarity with the people of Palestine in their struggle for liberation from military occupation, colonialist oppression, and the brutal apartheid system imposed by the state of Israel". The group said that, "for far too long, Israel, a settler colonial regime, has dispossessed, incarcerated, tortured, and murdered Palestinians by the thousands" and added that, "there is no symmetry between the Palestinian people's struggle and the genocide being carried out by the Zionist terror state".

It appears antisemitic to refer to the entirety of Israel as a "Zionist state". Many Israelis favor a two-state solution and oppose Benjamin Netanyahu's far-right administration.

Independent Black Lives Matter chapters have commented on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, although the national Black Lives Matter organization has yet to do so. Black Lives Matter chapters are operated independently from the national Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, and many are entirely unaffiliated.

BLM Grassroots, a smaller group not affiliated with the Black Lives Matter national organization, published a statement on October 9, 2023, stating: "in solidarity with the Palestinian people." The statement appeared to attempt to justify Hamas's actions as legitimate "resistance": "When a people have been subject to decades of apartheid and unimaginable violence, their resistance must not be condemned, but understood as a desperate act of self-defense."

A BLM Chicago Illinois account has shared social media posts implying support for Hamas. In a post on X on October 10, 2023, the group posted an image of a paraglider referencing Hamas's use of paragliders to infiltrate Israel and murder civilians with the message "I stand with Palestine." In another post on October 11, the group wrote: "When we say Free Palestine, y'all say antisemitic & Hamas. Israel's terrorism created Hamas & Zionism is a betrayal of the peace of Judaism, not those shouting against its genocidal effect on Palestine."

A BLM Phoenix Arozonia account endorsed and shared a statement originally published by Arizona State University's chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), which said that "Palestinian freedom fighters are not terrorists!" In response to comments from social media users criticizing the group's decision to refer to Hamas as "freedom fighters", BLM Phoenix responded, "We are also freedom fighters who have been grossly mislabeled and violently targeted for standing up against injustice to our people... so... you can call them whatever you want... but we will call them freedom fighters and we will stand in full support of the resistance happening in Palestine." The group added, "The Palestinian attack was a revolution and attempt to reclaim their freedom."

The Party for Socialism and Liberation published a statement on October 7, 2023, expressing support for Hamas's terrorist attack: "Resistance to apartheid and fascist-type oppression is not a crime! It is the inevitable outcome for all people who demand self-determination rather than living with the boot heel of the oppressors on their necks... The actions of the resistance over the course of the last day is a morally and legally legitimate response to occupation." The statement applauded the actions taken by "Palestinian resistance forces" and rejected the idea that the attack against Israeli civilians constituted "terrorism".

If Hamas had targeted military installations and government buildings, their actions may have been seen as a form of legitimate resistance. Instead, indiscriminate executions were carried out, including women, children, babies, and the elderly.

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In the United States, only a very small percentage of men under 60 are military veterans.

In the United States, at least 31% of male mass shooters under 60 (which is almost all mass shooters) are military veterans.

That's 40 out of 127 mass shooters in Mother Jones' database whom I've been able to identify as U.S. military veterans, with no help from Mother Jones and darn little help from any media outlets at all. It is very likely that more than those 40 have actually been military veterans.

We now have reports of a U.S. Army reservist who trained others in shooting guns having committed the worst mass shooting in some time.

There is much we do not know about the latest mass shooting in the United States, but of these two things we can be certain:

The U.S. Congress will do nothing to make U.S. gun laws resemble those of a normal nation. Media outlets will focus on mental health, rightwing politics, and anything other than military experience. There will be a hunt for "motive," but little interest in ability.

As I reported in June, a University of Maryland report touching on this topic was virtually ignored by media outlets.

But here are the facts:

Looking at males, aged 18-59, veterans are well over twice, maybe over three times as likely to be mass shooters compared with the group as a whole. And they shoot somewhat more fatally. Counting this latest shooting as having 16 fatalities, though that may actually increase, the veteran shooters on this list have killed on average 8.3 people and those who have not been identified as veterans have killed on average 7.2 people.

The numbers have changed slightly since I began writing about this:

All sorts of correlations are carefully examined when it comes to mass shooters. But the fact that the largest institution in the United States has trained many of them to shoot is scrupulously avoided.

Those mass shooters who are not actually military veterans tend to dress and speak as if they were. Some of them are veterans of police forces with military-sounding titles, or have been prison guards or security guards. Counting those who've been in either the U.S. military or a police force or a prison or worked as an armed guard of any kind would give us an even larger percentage. The factor of having been trained and employed to shoot is larger than just the military veterans, yet carefully ignored because so many of those professionally trained to shoot have been trained by the U.S. military.

Some of the non-military mass-shooters have worked as civilians for the military. Some have tried to join the military and been rejected. The whole phenomenon of mass-shootings has skyrocketed during the post-2001 endless wars. The militarism of mass-shootings may be too big to see, but the avoidance of the topic is stunning.

Needless to say, out of a country of over 330 million people a database of 127 mass shooters is a very, very small group. Needless to say, statistically, virtually all veterans are not mass shooters. But that can hardly be the reason for not a single news article ever mentioning that mass shooters are very disproportinately likely to be veterans. After all, statistically, virtually all males, mentally ill people, domestic abusers, Nazi-sympathizers, loners, and gun-purchasers are also not mass-shooters. Yet articles on those topics proliferate like NRA campaign bribes.

There seem to me to be two key reasons that a sane communications system would not censor this topic. First, our public dollars and elected officials are training and conditioning huge numbers of people to kill, sending them abroad to kill, thanking them for the "service," praising and rewarding them for killing, and then some of them are killing where it is not acceptable. This is not a chance correlation, but a factor with a clear connection.

Second, by devoting so much of our government to organized killing, and even allowing the military to train in schools, and to develop video games and Hollywood movies, we've created a culture in which people imagine that militarism is praiseworthy, that violence solves problems, and that revenge is one of the highest values. Virtually every mass shooter has used military weaponry. Most of those whose dress we are aware of dressed as if in the military. Those who've left behind writings that have been made public have tended to write as if they were taking part in a war. So, while it might surprise many people to find out how many mass shooters are veterans of the military, it might be hard to find mass shooters (actual veterans or not) who did not themselves think they were soldiers.

There seems to me to be one most likely reason that it's difficult to find out which shooters have been in the military (meaning that some additional shooters probably have been, about whom I've been unable to learn that fact). We've developed a culture dedicated to praising and glorifying participation in war. It need not even be a conscious decision, but a journalist convinced that militarism is laudable would assume it was irrelevant to a report on a mass shooter and, in addition, assume that it was distasteful to mention that the man was a veteran. That sort of widespread self-censorship is the only possible explanation for the complete whiting out of this story.

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This article originally appeared at TomDispatch.com. To receive TomDispatch in your inbox three times a week, click here.

Consider it no small accomplishment. Donald Trump is now an all-(un)American institution. Even when you don't see him in the headlines, for instance, he still has his own little niche for news at the New York Times and, count on one thing, no judge's gag order is ever going to gag him (even if, when you hear what he has to say, you often have the urge to gag). Yes, recently the judge in his federal trial in Washington, D.C., did impose a limited gag order on him (the second he's gotten recently) and undoubtedly there will be more to come.

Still, no one shuts up Donald Trump, the man who only recently swore that, should he win the presidency in 2025, he would not only expand his first-term Muslim travel ban, barring citizens from majority-Muslim countries, but ensure that not a single refugee from Gaza ever made it to the United States. (Not much of a threat there, of course, since none of them can even get out of the Gaza Strip at present.)

Once upon a time, it would have been impossible to imagine a world in which, whether you loved him, hated him, or even knew of his existence, Donald Trump had become the eternally looming figure in our political lives. Now, he's there in a way that, no matter his endless trials and tribulations, literal and figurative, should leave us all amazed. It's already obvious that, barring a miracle (or a personal collapse of some sort), he will be the Trumpublican nominee for president in 2024 and, as TomDispatch regular Clarence Lusane suggests today, the next version of a Trumpocracy would undoubtedly be a nightmare to behold.

And keep in mind that, were he to actually win the presidency again, given his attitude toward fossil fuels, his rejection of climate change as a phenomenon, and the way he would certainly rule the historically greatest and, at present, second-greatest greenhouse gas emitter, you might as well kiss this planet goodbye. Now, let Lusane take you deep into our daunting world, the one Donald Trump has had such a hand in creating. Tom

What A Second Trumpocracy Would Mean

The Coming Crisis of 2025

By Clarence Lusane

If he becomes the official nominee of the Republican Party in next year's presidential race, Donald Trump will receive tens of millions of votes in the general election. He may get less than the presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden. He may get more. Regardless, tens of millions of GOP, conservative, and extremist voters will cast their ballots for him.

In 2016, despite his history of elitist, racist, and sexist behavior, failed businesses, lack of governing experience, and no demonstrated past of caring for anyone but himself, he won nearly 63 million votes. While still almost three million fewer votes than Hillary Clinton got, it was not just enough for a victory in the Electoral College but a clear warning of things to come.

In 2020, after four years of non-stop chaos, the death of more than 200,000 Covid victims at least in part because of his mishandling of the pandemic, a legitimate and warranted impeachment, abuse of power, ceaseless corruption, and more than 30,000 documented public lies, he gained 74 million votes, even if, in the end, he lost the election.

Now, in addition to all that history, you can add on the incitement of a violent insurrection, a second impeachment for attempting to overthrow the government, four criminal indictments (91 separate charges), being found liable for sexual abuse, and a stated plan to exact retribution against his enemies in a second term. And yet he will undoubtedly again receive many tens of millions of votes.

In fact, you can count on one thing: the 2024 election will not resolve the authoritarian attraction that the Trump vote represents. So perhaps it's time to prepare now, not later, for the political crisis that will undoubtedly emerge from that event, whatever the vote count may prove to be.

The Authoritarian Threat Continues

A year from the next election, multiple scenarios are imaginable including, of course, that neither Donald Trump nor Joe Biden will be contenders. While Biden's health seems fine at present, he will be only weeks away from his 82nd birthday on Election Day 2024. A lot can happen, health-wise, in a year. When it comes to Trump, however, Biden is now likely to be significantly healthier (mentally and physically) than him. Among other things, no blatant lies or well-tailored suits can hide his unhealthy obesity.

And while he relishes castigating Biden's cognitive state, it was Trump who only a few weeks ago, while giving a speech attacking the president's capabilities, stated that he beat "Obama" in an election, that Americans needed IDs to buy bread, and that Biden would lead the country into "World War II," which just happens to have ended 78 years ago. While some of Trump's GOP opponents like Vivek Ramaswamy, Ron DeSantis, and Nikki Haley have indeed launched ageist attacks against him, it's true that he's roughly in the same age group as Biden.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov met with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili today during a working visit to Tbilisi, Trend reports.

Asadov thanked for the invitation to the Tbilisi Silk Road Forum, which was held in the capital of Georgia, and stressed the importance of the event in terms of discussing economic and transport issues on the regional and global agenda.

In addition, at the meeting, satisfaction was expressed with the development of interstate relations between the two countries. It was noted that as a result of the joint efforts of President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, the relations of the strategic partnership of the countries have acquired a comprehensive character.

The sides highly appreciated trade and economic cooperation, stressing that over the nine months of this year, the volume of mutual trade increased by more than 12 percent. It was noted with satisfaction that Azerbaijan is one of the largest investors in Georgia. Information was also provided about the favorable investment climate in Azerbaijan.

The energy sector was assessed as one of the main priorities of bilateral cooperation. It was noted that the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan, Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum (South Caucasus gas pipeline) and Southern Gas Corridor projects make an important contribution to the economic progress of both Azerbaijan and Georgia.

Moreover, it was stressed that the joint energy and transport projects of Azerbaijan and Georgia have served to transform the South Caucasus, changed the political, economic, transport and energy map of the region.

The sides emphasized the growing importance of the Middle Corridor, confirming that both countries attach great importance to expanding the potential of transport corridors passing through their territories.

Seaports in Azerbaijan and Georgia were assessed as important links in the Middle Corridor. Confidence was expressed that the expansion of cooperation in the field of port infrastructure will serve the development of the Middle Corridor.

In addition, it was stated that the Green Energy Corridor project implemented with the participation of both countries will make an important contribution to ensuring Europe's energy security.

Asadov expressed gratitude in connection with the wide celebration in Georgia of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev. In this regard, the importance of organizing a photo exhibition dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the great leader in Tbilisi during the visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Georgia in October this year was stressed.

In general, specific projects implemented between the two countries were considered, prospects for cooperation in various areas of mutual interest were discussed during the meeting.
DEAR ABBY: I am a man in my 50s. A few months ago, I had a routine doctors appointment, with a new primary care physician. I intended the appointment to be a complete, regular physical. I dont (thankfully) have any major physical health issues that I know of. But I was always taught it is wise to have periodic physical exams, in case there is a less obvious medical issue, as well as get to know ones doctor.

I went for the physical exam. I was not asked to undress as I have been with all my previous doctors. The doctor seemed nice, but I found it strange that I wasnt examined physically. I find it hard to understand how a doctor could properly examine me without me undressing. The doctor should be used to seeing bodies, and I cannot understand why the doctor or staff were reluctant to ask me to undress.

I found this all very confusing. Perhaps there was some miscommunication? I dont know if this is unusual, temporary or a new normal that I havent heard about. Next time, should I be clearer about wanting to be examined thoroughly, or should I change doctors? -- COVERED UP IN VIRGINIA

DEAR COVERED UP: Contact the doctor, explain that in the past you have always had a complete physical which involved you disrobing and ask why it didnt happen during your last visit. If the answer you receive is unsatisfactory, change doctors.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
When Yoli Rabadan Barragan describes her Mexican breads, cookies, and pastries, she talks about the authentic ingredients.

But she also talks about how they bring people together.

Community was a theme Tuesday night at the second-annual Pitch Latino, a contest in which nine Latino entrepreneurs pitched their companies in front of an audience and competed for prize money. But it felt more like a celebration of new businesses than an episode of Shark Tank.

The participants pitched companies that sell everything from wine to coffee to social media apps to outdoor activities, with many focused on how their products bring people together. One makes a camping trailer designed to get families and friends outside.

Each of the nine entrepreneurs who pitched took home at least $2,500. Rabadan Barragan won the $10,000 grand prize after an online vote by the roughly 170 audience members.

If Im going to share my culture, I want them to experience it like I experience it, Rabadan Barragan said during her pitch for Barro, her bakery that uses authentic Mexican ingredients and sells its products at the Gresham and Beaverton farmers markets.

Rabadan Barragan had never participated in a pitch contest before. She wants to use the prize money to open a storefront, either in Gresham or Portland.

Barro's products include polvorones and mole cookies.@everardogfphoto | Everardo Garcia Flores

The event was organized by the nonprofit Latino Founders, which also operates a 12-week business accelerator where entrepreneurs learn small business basics. There are seven participants in this years cohort.

The goal of the accelerator, and Pitch Latino, is to get businesses to the point where theyre attractive to even larger funding partners, including venture capital firms and commercial banks.

Our goal is to help them scale, said Gabriel Flores, who cofounded Latino Founders with Juan Barraza and Edgar Navas.

Pitch Latino is a sibling of sorts of Pitch Black, a similar annual event for Black-owned businesses started in 2015 by Stephen Green, whos now executive director of Business for a Better Portland.

Audience members on Tuesday night appreciated that each business got a check and the event focused on small businesses that often get overlooked.

We got to feel like investors, said Mujidat Saaka, a Portland data analyst who attended. It would be nice if this is a sign of things to come.

Gabriel Flores, who cofounded Latino Founders, hosted Tuesday night's Pitch Latino.Courtesy: @everardogfphoto | Everardo Garcia Flores

There has been solid growth in Latino-owned businesses, but funding options havent kept pace.

The number of Hispanic-owned businesses increased 8.2% to 375,259 between 2019 and 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. About 6.5% of U.S. businesses are Hispanic-owned.

But they havent gotten an equivalent share of venture capital funding.

Less than 1% of funding from the top 25 venture capital and private equity firms goes to Latino-owned businesses, according to a recent report from the consulting firm Bain.

The Pitch Latino event included the announcement of two significant gifts: $200,000 from the Oregon Community Foundations Latino Partnership Program and $125,000 from the city of Portland, a gift announced by Commissioner Carmen Rubio. AutoDesk recently gave the nonprofit $10,000 and OnPoint gave $2,500.

Pitch Latino's participants included Nico Vergara, founder of Nico's ice cream.Courtesy: @everardogfphoto | Everardo Garcia Flores

Tuesday nights participants:

360 Sierra , which makes an ultralight camping trailer that can be pulled behind a small car, like a Honda Civic or a Tesla. The company plans to rent and sell trailers, with new trailers costing $7,500.

Ballroom , a social media app for hyperlocal video. The app is designed to help people find friends and activities, often after relocating to a new city. The product is in testing and expected to launch next year.

Parra Wine Co. , which was founded in 2019 by Sam Parra. Im in an industry that comes from multigenerational wealth, Parra said during his pitch, noting of the nearly 8,000 wine brands in the U.S., only 105 are Latino-owned. Parra described one of his upcoming releases as a hibiscus-infused wine, which elicited a collective mmmmmmm from the audience.

Barro , which makes authentic Mexican breads, cookies and pastries. Founded two years ago, the company has already sold more than 10,000 breads and pastries.

Life Stages , an app that helps users develop skills for improved wellness and mental health. The company has users in San Francisco and Portland, said founder and CEO Zulma Y. Terrones.

Love Preferred Coffee Co. : I know some of you are thinking, Oh no, not another coffee company in Portland, joked founder Enrique Sanchez-Rivera. The big difference for Love Preferred Coffee: It lets customers tip the farmers who grow its coffee beans. The company launched a month ago and already has the computer hardware company Logitech as a corporate client.

Nicos Ice Cream : The New Zealand-style ice cream company launched in 2021 and now has two stores and is on the shelves at 100 locations between Oregon and Washington. Nicos is made with fruit from the Willamette Valley. Founder and CEO Nico Vergara said 2023 sales should hit $1 million. By 2025, he hopes to hit $7.5 million.

Future Gen is a career platform for Gen Z. You know what doesnt work (for Gen Z)? said founder Eddie Mazariegos, in his pitch. Boring, traditional career assessments. The Future Gen platform is more interactive and video-driven. Mazariegos thinks its a $1 billion idea.

Loco Por La Aventura works to help more Spanish-speaking people participate in outdoor activities, including climbing, hiking, kayaking, and rafting. It organized 35 activities this year. It will organize 38 next year.

Pitch Latino opened with a panel discussion that included the founders of Altitude Beverage and Photon Marine.

The entrepreneurs said theres still funding for new businesses, but they said investors are more interested in sales and profitability than whimsical forecasts of explosive growth. They encouraged small business owners to get scrappy.

Theres been a culling of the herd, said Marcelino Alvarez, CEO of Photon Marine, which makes electric outboard motors.

 Matthew Kish, mkish@oregonian.com
A federal judge Thursday sentenced a 50-year-old Hoover gang member to life in prison without the chance of parole for participating in a racketeering conspiracy and murder in aid of racketeering.

U.S. District Judge Michael J. McShane issued the mandatory life sentence after Lorenzo Laron Low Down Jones called his trial a miscarriage of justice.
An Oregon State University student was arrested Tuesday after a threat allegedly was made that a food-delivery robot on campus had a bomb in it.

All of the food-delivery robots operating on the Corvallis campus were inspected by about 2 p.m. Tuesday, with no bombs found, according to a university public-safety alert. Starship Technologies, which has a contract with Oregon State, operates 75 delivery robots on the campus.

Ted Daniel Stock, 18, was booked in Benton County Jail Tuesday on a disorderly conduct charge and was released without bail, jail records show.

Stock, who is from Newport, had joked about bombing a delivery robot in a reply to a Starship Technologies Instagram post, his father told The Oregonian/OregonLive. After learning about the public safety alert, Stock called campus officials himself to say hed written the comment others interpreted as threatening, Ted Ross Stock, Stocks father, said. Campus authorities then came to the freshmans dorm and arrested him, Ted Ross Stock said.

He made a bad joke, Ted Ross Stock said. I dont know if theyll accept that or not.

Hes horribly embarrassed now, of course, the father added later in a text message.

Court records indicate Stock has no previous arrests or convictions in Oregon.

 Fedor Zarkhin

Office: 503-294-7674; Cell: 971-373-2905; fzarkhin@oregonian.com
The percentage of Oregon high school graduates who continued on to college within 16 months after high school dropped almost 10 percentage points in the past decade, exacerbated by precipitous declines during the pandemic and worsened in the past year.

Just 56% of Oregons 2021 graduates enrolled in post-secondary education after finishing a senior year that was scrambled by school closures and hybrid learning, newly released data from the Oregon Department of Education shows.

Thats about a 1 percentage point drop in college-going from the class of 2020, a small decrease year-over-year, but a continuation of the sharp plunge in college enrollment during the pandemic.

For the class of 2019, 63% of Oregons students continued on to higher education. In 2011, that number was as high as 65%, according to data from the states Higher Education Coordinating Commission.

It should be a wake-up call that weve seen such a notable decrease in the proportion of recent high school graduates who enroll in college or university, commission director Ben Cannon said of the 10-year trend. The economy of this state, the educational goals of this state, require, demand that more young adults pursue and succeed in postsecondary education.

Oregons 2021 drop in college-going mirrors enrollment declines at the states colleges and universities and a drop in postsecondary enrollment nationwide when the global pandemic was at its peak, the Oregon Department of Education said in a news release.

The 2021 data tracks outcomes for seniors who were sent home from school when the COVID-19 pandemic hit during the spring of their junior year, then started their senior years online or in hybrid learning as schools opened back up to various degrees across the state.

Across the country, 61.8% of the high school graduates of 2021 enrolled immediately in colleges or universities by that fall, a drop of nearly 1 percentage point from 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Historic drops in college attendance have been particularly stark for Oregons Black, Native American and Pacific Islander students.

However, in 2021, a few groups of students bucked the trend. College enrollment among Native American and Alaska Native students and low-income students rebounded slightly from 2020, a promising sign that might have been influenced by historic amounts of financial aid.

Continued declines

Cannon considered college-going drops during the 2020 and 2021 school years to be pandemic-related aberrations.

Several factors likely played into the decline, he said, including interruptions to students in-person education and uncertainty around what their college experience would look like if they enrolled during the pandemic. A hungry job market also enticed some high school graduates to join the workforce immediately instead of pursuing a certificate or degree.

All of those factors impacted college choices for seniors at Bends Mountain View High School, said principal Michael Hicks.

State data shows that just 52% of graduates in Mountain Views class of 2021 went on to college within 16 months, slightly below the state average of 55.6%. That constituted a 2% drop in the schools college-going compared to the class of 2020, a steeper decline than the state overall despite the schools relatively economically well-off student body. Just a quarter of Mountain Views students qualify for free or reduced lunch, state data shows, far lower than Oregons historic average above 50%.

I think the pandemic was super disruptive to all of us, just in regards to our normal flow and transitions, including the transition to college, Hicks said. During that time it was really challenging for families to make those decisions with any type of certainty, especially maybe sending a kid away from home.

Students who did attend college during the pandemic often felt isolated or deprived of the typical college experience, Hicks said. Families and students are also questioning the return of investment in expensive college degrees, he said, and COVID-19 may have accelerated the entry into the workforce for students who took on jobs in the community during the pandemic.

Hicks conceded that Mountain Views college and career programming wasnt as robust for the class of 2021 as it might have been in the past, as his school and others wrestled with the move to remote learning. Students started that 2020-21 school year remotely and couldnt readily visit the schools college and career center. They also missed out on visits from college reps or in-person help filling out applications or financial aid.

We were worried about kids mental health, social emotional health and making sure they were attending classes and being connected to school. There were a whole host of typical priorities when kids are in a normal session that simply were not prioritized, Hicks said. It wasnt because we didnt think they were important. It was because we couldnt do it all.

High school seniors in the Lost River class of 2021 participate in their graduation ceremony. Lost River works to build a culture of college-going among its students and sent far more students to college in 2021 than the state average.Klamath County School District

Some schools buck the trend

Lost River, a 230 student middle and high school near the Oregon-California border south of Klamath Falls, stands out as an exception.

Some 80% of the schools graduating class of 2021 went to college within 16 months, a 17% increase from the year prior.

Lost River students likely experienced less COVID-19 disruption during the pandemic because it is a small school that was able to re-open to in-person learning earlier than others across the state, Principal Angie Wallin said. The school typically has a senior class of about 40 students.

But the school also works to build a culture of college-going among its students.

Every year, the entire school participates in college application week, where students down to seventh grade explore college options. All high school seniors also dedicate one of their seven periods to a seminar class where they plan for the future, hear from colleges across the state, apply to at least three postsecondary programs and sign up for scholarships.

Lost River hosts a spring signing day for its seniors, during which nearly all of them profess their intent to attend a trade school, community college or university, enroll in the military or start an apprenticeship program.

Its part of that culture-building. The idea that were making a plan for our futures, Wallin said.

The schools college-going numbers are particularly impressive given its demographics. About 60% of the schools students identify as Hispanic or Latino, a demographic of students that are historically underrepresented in higher education. The majority of its students are low-income, to the point where the entire school qualifies for free or reduced lunch. And many students will be the first in their families to pursue a degree, Wallin said.

She said strong partnerships with local colleges including Klamath Community College and Oregon Tech have exposed students to pathways that can lead directly to a job opening within their own community, like a construction apprenticeship or nursing degree.

The school also hosts parent nights to help parents work through the application paperwork.

We have families that are highly supportive of their students and wanting the best opportunities for their children, Wallin said.

Students in the Lost River class of 2023 celebrate college signing day, an annual celebration where students declare their postsecondary plans.Klamath County School District

Enrollment upswings could signal good news

Oregons colleges and universities have seen a gradual uptick in enrollment over the past several years since the lows of COVID-19. The state doesnt have firm data yet about whether that signals an uptick in college-going for the classes of 2022 or 2023, but those enrollment numbers could signal a positive trend, Cannon said. Those numbers could also be influenced by a return of adult learners to community colleges.

Theres also little data that speaks to why Oregons Indigenous students and low-income students saw college-going increase this year, though financial aid could have helped.

Oregon unveiled a Tribal Students Grant in 2022 that will pay the majority of college costs for members of the states federally recognized tribes. That could have helped fuel the 1.6 percentage point increase in Native American students attending college in 2022, some of whom were reflected in the college-going rate that tracks graduates for 16 months after they finish high school. Nearly 41% of Native American and Alaska Native students from the class of 2021 pursued a degree or certificate. While a slight increase from the year before, that rate is still lower than the state average and far behind the 56% of Native American and Alaska Native students in the class of 2011 who went on to college.

Wed hope and expect to see larger increases in that college going rate for American Indian, Alaskan Native students in the years to come as that grant becomes more widely known and hopefully widely used, Cannon said.

College-going for low-income students also ticked up slightly, from 45% in 2020 to 47% in 2021. Cannon wasnt sure about the reason for this, but said it coincides with research by the commission that found college attendance became more affordable for students during the pandemic, when fewer Oregon students qualified for more state financial aid.

Cannon has been flagging the decade-long decline in college-going as an issue for lawmakers and education leaders to keep on their radar. The declines should drive the higher education sector to deepen its partnerships with school districts and to help families and students understand the range of options available to them from four-year degrees to apprenticeships to trades schools and other training, he said.

As college-going numbers have decreased over the past decade, the volume of high school graduates has gone up, as has the graduation rate, Cannon said.

Part of the challenge, then, and the question we have is how to convert those increasing numbers of high school graduates into college going students, Cannon said.

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.
One hundred and ninety-five years ago, a trapper arrived in Fort Vancouver with news that 15 of his colleagues had been slain by members of the Quuiich Tribe in what is now Oregons Douglas County, their horses, furs and personal belongings stolen; their bodies left to rot.

Now, on Oct. 28, local history buffs will gather near Reedsport to dedicate a monument to the men who were part of the business partnership of a Smith, Jackson and Sublette trapping party led by Jedediah Smith. Recently listed as the Smith, Jackson and Sublette Burial Site, it is believed to be the oldest cemetery in Douglas County recognized by the Oregon Commission on Historical Cemeteries and among the oldest in Oregon.

The Quuiich Tribe of the lower Umpqua were among the communities decimated by diseases brought by white trappers and traders starting around 1820. Survivors were rounded up and removed from their lands starting in 1860.

For the people behind the Umpqua Memorial Project, the trappers burial site is important not only in memorializing the deceased men, but for what it represents in Oregons history, said Bob Zybach, historian and program manager of Oregon Websites and Watersheds Project.

Its one of the key reasons were the U.S. and not Britain now, Zybach said, explaining that after the incident Smith rediscovered South Pass on his way to the Missouri River. Smith, Jackson and Sublette in turn promoted the route to top government officials as a possible wagon route for American emigrants to the Willamette Valley, Zybach said. A decade later, Americans were following this opportunity for free land and the Hudson Bay Company soon moved their operation to Vancouver Island.

In the 1820s, Native Americans were trading goods with the Hudson Bay Company, either directly or through trade with neighboring tribes, said Patricia Whereat Phillips, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians and whose late father Don Whereat wrote the 2010 book Our Culture and History, on local tribal history. They were also going through social upheavals from introduced diseases like smallpox, for which they had no effective treatments. By 1828, they were already suspicious of the white men and their intentions, which in the end were borne out, more deaths and loss of ones home lands.

The effort to establish a memorial was started by Wayne Knauf, a member of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation in Washington and also of the California-based Jedediah Smith Society. Others, including Don Whereat, a historian for the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, soon joined in the research. Eventually, Zybach took up the project under the auspices of the Oregon Websites and Watersheds. David Gould, whose family pioneered the Elliott State Forest, selected the stone from a local quarry and donated it for the monument.

These people were buried and forgotten about, said Knauf, who first learned of the deaths about 30 years ago. Buried fur trappers in the West, in my personal opinion thats horrible. ... The memorial is honoring history and people and its nice when we can do that.

A tribal linguist, Phillips recalls hearing stories passed down by family elders. In the Chinook language, white Americans were called Bostons, and the British trappers, King Georges men, she said.

Smiths party didnt make themselves popular on Coos Bay, Phillips said. There was an older man who felt hed been mistreated by Smiths party. He went up himself to tell the Umpquas that these people were rude. Smiths party had a number of unpleasant run-ins with Native people.

No one knows for certain what triggered the killings by members of the Quuiich Tribe (pronounced Queech) of the lower Umpqua. A letter dated Aug. 10, 1828, by John McLoughlin, head of the Columbia District at Fort Vancouver, suggests that it may have involved an altercation over an axe days before the killings. What is known is that of 19 in the trapping party, only four survived. No resources indicate deaths among the Quuiich. Smith escaped with two others in a canoe and a fourth fled on foot. Twenty-eight days later, an American by the name of Black, according to McLoughins letter, reached Fort Vancouver with the news. A party of men returned to the site to bury the dead, of which 11 were found, and to reclaim their property.

There are numerous opinions about what happened between the trappers and Native Americans leading up to the killings, Knauf said. I dont want to give an opinion. I dont have the facts or the knowledge and hearsay isnt good. I can imagine when Jedediahs group got there and not being able to talk to the people.  In my opinion that added to the conflict.

The site is about one mile north of Reedsport on Smith River Road, the area where it is believed the killings took place. A cadaver dog recently signaled that remains were found at the site, Zybach said. The memorial will include a monument with the deceaseds names, along with a sign featuring historical reports of what occurred, including the 1828 account by Umpqua Chief Starnoose.

No one knows there was a burial there, Zybach said. These were 15 men who were adventurers trying to make a living and explore. They were beaver trappers working for an American business and we are the Beaver State. The men deserve a memorial.

Not everyone agrees.

Phillips has mixed feelings about the memorial, she said. While she has no objection to the cemetery being marked and protected, the period in history is a dark one for Native Americans. Its complicated. On one hand, it is great when you are trying to solve a history puzzle and find an answer and have it recognized, Phillips said, referring to recent access to data that helped home in on the location of the killings. On the other hand, depending on what stories you believe, some of the men who worked for Smith were not very nice people. For Native people, that fur trading era was not a pleasant time. Its all tied to all the very bad things that happened. Whether these guys intended it, they brought diseases, colonization, forced displacement, violence. Its just tied up with a lot of very bad things.

Doug Barrett, vice chair of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians Tribal Council, said he will not attend the dedication. I dont support this, Barrett said, noting he speaks for himself and not the tribe or tribal council. They dont mark the mass graves all over the coast where our ancestors are buried. Everybody wants to glorify Smith and all he did and the same with Lewis and Clark, but really, the damage they did to the tribes was irreversible.

 Lori Tobias, for The Oregonian/OregonLive
Joseph David Emerson, the off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot who is charged with trying to crash a jetliner in Oregon while riding a jumpseat in the cockpit, had piloted another commercial aircraft just three days earlier.

The terrifyingly close proximity of the two events  Emerson sitting at the controls of his own jetliner on Thursday and Emerson allegedly leaping out of the jumpseat in an attempt to crash a Horizon plane by pulling emergency fuel cutoff handles Sunday  underscores gaping holes in the public safety net that allow pilots in mental distress to remain at the helm of massive aircraft.

That could be devastating, said Joseph Gutheinz Jr., a Texas lawyer who in previous roles investigated pilots suspected of lying about their mental health for federal agencies. The bottomline: This is a major problem.

After last working on Thursday, Emerson told Port of Portland police who took him into custody at Portland International Airport that he was having a nervous breakdown and had used magic mushrooms 48 hours earlier, which would have been Friday evening. He also said he hadnt slept in the past 40 hours, which would have been approximately since 2 a.m. Saturday morning.

Emerson told police that he had been battling depression and hed been struggling to come to terms with the death of a close friend, though its unclear whether his employer or the Federal Aviation Administration were aware. An Alaska Airlines spokesperson said Wednesday that she was unable to share any private employment details. The FAA didnt respond to questions from The Oregonian/OregonLive.

Gutheinz said he wouldnt be surprised if Emerson hid his struggles from them  or even if he didnt and he was allowed to continue flying.

There are people that fly sick and they represent a threat to the flying public and to the people on the ground, Gutheinz said. And the FAA is basically an absentee landlord when it comes to protecting the public.

He added that an airplane is the equivalent of a flying bomb. According to the FAA, tens of thousands of flights safely take off or land daily at U.S. airports. They transport close to 3 million passengers. The last fatal U.S. airlines passenger crash was in 2009 in New York, killing all 49 people on board and one person on the ground.

The FAA states that most mental health conditions if treated, do not disqualify a pilot from flying. But some, including psychosis and bipolar disorder, automatically do.

In August, an investigation by The Washington Post found that nearly 5,000 pilots are suspected of falsifying medical records to hide benefits theyve been receiving for mental illness or other health problems that might make them hazards on the job.

FAA regulations require that pilots undergo medical examinations every six months to five years, depending on the type of aircraft they operate and their age. But aviation experts say those with mental health or other problems sometimes conceal them, out of fear they will be cut off from flying.

The FAA says it takes mental health concerns seriously and has been trying to reduce the stigma pilots feel in reporting depression and other difficulties theyre facing.

In a statement posted to its website, Alaska Airlines said Emersons medical certification had never been denied, suspended or revoked.

One of Emersons defense attorneys, Noah Horst, said he and his colleagues will pursue a diligent investigation into all the facts and circumstances leading up to Sundays events.

Joseph Emerson is a caring father, a loving husband, and a skilled aviator who is supported and loved by a vast network of friends, family, and colleagues, Horst said in an email. He would never intentionally hurt another person. Joe was not under the influence of any intoxicants when he boarded that flight.

Emerson, who lives in the Bay Area of California, remains in Multnomah County Jail.

He faces 83 counts of attempted murder and one count of first-degree endangering aircraft in Multnomah County Circuit Court. He also faces federal charges, which he will hear during his arraignment Thursday.

-- Aimee Green; agreen@oregonian.com; @o_aimee
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 13 premieres with Episode 1 airing tonight, Wednesday, October 25 at 8 p.m. with a live TV broadcast on Bravo, and will be available on demand streaming shortly after. This season, Kylie, Ericka, and the rest of the women will reunite in sunny Southern California for their most dramatic and exciting season yet. Tune in live with a free trial of Fubo.

In Episode 1 and 2 called The Eaglewoman has Landed and Unwise Surprise, Dorit hosts a retreat for the ladies while Erika tries to recover after her husbands indictment. As Garcelle figures out her relationship with her teen sons, Erika apologizes for her actions at Dorits wedding and Sutton finally hits her limit and goes to a matchmaker for help. For a sneak peek, check out the video provided below.

 Dont have cable? Watch the premiere of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills for FREE with Fubo (free trial) or with Sling (promotional offers, cheapest streaming plans). You can also watch with DirecTV Stream (free trial).

Who is in the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Season 13?

Garcelle Beauvais

Kyle Richards

Erika Jayne

Sutton Stracke

Dorit Kemsley

Crystal Kung Minkoff

AnneMarie Wiley

HOW TO WATCH

What: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

When: Wednesday, October 25 at 8 p.m.

TV channel: Bravo

Watch live stream online: Watch the premiere of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills for FREE with Fubo (free trial) or with Sling (promotional offers, cheapest streaming plans). You can also watch with DirecTV Stream (free trial).
Subscription to paid content

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New York, US (PANA) - Progress has been made in advancing a 2019 peace agreement in the Central African Republic (CAR) but the support of the international community is still vital, the UN Special Representative Valentine Rugwabiza told the Security Council on Thursday
New York, US (PANA) - China and Russia on Wednesday vetoed a draft resolution sponsored by the United States, while a second Russian-backed resolution failed to adopt having failed to get sufficient votes in favour, deepening the Security Councils deadlock over any unified response to address the crisis in Gaza and Israel
Harare, Zimbabwe (PANA) - Zimbabwes economy has continued its post-COVID recovery, but enhancing its longer-term growth potential would require strong reform efforts, according to an International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team that on Wednesday concluded a weeklong visit to the southern Africa country
Photo: (Photo : STEFANI REYNOLDS / Getty Images)

In a shocking revelation, a 12-year-old from Maryland exploited a legal loophole to send multiple bomb threats to various schools.

This child's keen understanding of the Maryland juvenile justice reform law prevented them from facing charges.

12-Year-Old Sends Multiple Bomb Threats

The actions of the 12-year-old didn't just disrupt the usual academic activities. They created a widespread atmosphere of fear and placed considerable financial and operational burdens on the police department.

The multiple bomb threats targeted Montgomery Blair High School several times in October. Moreover, schools such as Oak View Elementary School and Silver Spring International Middle School also found themselves at the receiving end of these threats.

Every threat necessitated a comprehensive response. Officers and K-9 units had to be dispatched to ensure the safety of students and staff at the threatened Maryland schools. This put a strain on their resources, diverting them from other essential tasks and community duties.

Chief Jones underscored the gravity of the situation, explaining that sending officers and K-9 units, especially when resources are already stretched, is a significant challenge.

Such diversions from primary duties, he emphasized, are not just unacceptable but also put the broader community's safety at risk.

Though the 12-year-old was well-aware of the state's legal nuances, it was the collective effort of the Montgomery County Public Schools' IT staff and detectives that led to their identification.

Confronted with the evidence, the child confessed to being behind the multiple bomb threats. Jones highlighted the sheer dedication and relentless effort of the detectives and school staff.

Their combined efforts ensured that the young individual behind the threats was swiftly identified.

While the child might not face charges due to the specifics of the Maryland juvenile justice reform law, their actions have sparked discussions on potential amendments to the law.

Understanding the Legal Gap

This 12-year-old's audacious actions brought to light a significant gap in the Maryland juvenile justice reform law. Under this law, children below the age of 13 are only chargeable if their deeds are classified as a "crime of violence".

Given this understanding, the child deliberately disrupted the educational processes of Montgomery County schools, sending multiple bomb threats without the fear of legal repercussions.

Marcus Jones, the Montgomery County Police Chief, expressed profound disappointment over the situation. He shared that it's deeply unsettling to realize that the individual causing such disturbances and fear in the community had a clear grasp of the legal protections surrounding their age.

Read Also: Alicia Navarro's Boyfriend Faces Child Sexual Abuse Charges After Discovering Explicit Images of Minors

Community and Its Safety

Montgomery County, especially its educational institutions, has been on edge due to these threats. The recent series of events have disrupted the academic environment, with several schools, including Montgomery Blair High School, experiencing repeated threats.

The commitment and dedication of the police department and school staff, however, have been commendable.

Their rapid responses and investigative efforts ensured that the situation was contained, and the person responsible was identified.

Jones expressed his pride in his team and their unwavering dedication to maintaining community safety. He reaffirmed the police department's commitment to safeguarding the community, ensuring that every resident feels secure and protected.

In light of recent events, discussions on amending the Maryland juvenile justice reform law have gained momentum.

The exploits of a 12-year-old using this legal loophole highlight the need for comprehensive reforms, ensuring that such incidents don't repeat in the future.

The safety of the community and the educational institutions hangs in the balance, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

Related Article: Oregon State University Robots Caught Up in Explosive Hoax: Details on Disturbing Bomb Threat Revealed
Photo: (Photo : Christopher Campbell on Unsplash)

The Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a UK-based watchdog agency, issued a stark warning on Tuesday about the surge in artificial intelligence-generated deepfake photos of child sexual abuse on the internet. As per the foundation, if immediate controls aren't put in place, the magnitude of this problem could become exponentially worse.

Given the likelihood that the flood of AI-generated images will overwhelm law enforcement, the IWF's report emphasizes the need for immediate action from governments and tech companies alike. These images could further augment the number of potential victims.

"This is not a potential harm, but a current crisis. Immediate action is required," stressed Dan Sexton, the CTO of IWF.

Dark Web Revelations

This call for action comes in the wake of a recent case in South Korea, where an individual was handed a 2.5-year prison sentence for creating 360 virtual child abuse images using artificial intelligence. Furthermore, incidents have arisen where teenagers have utilized these tools to generate inappropriate images of their peers.

A southwestern Spanish school, for instance, saw police investigating students' alleged use of an app that manipulated pictures of their classmates.

The alarming rise in the use of generative AI systems for malevolent purposes showcases the inherent risks of these technologies. Beyond just inundating investigators with misleading information about non-existent victims, these fakes can be weaponized to manipulate and exploit real victims.

Disturbingly, Sexton noted that there has been an uptick in the demand for new AI-generated content featuring victims who might have been abused years ago. "Existing real content is being used as a template to create more horrifying images," he remarked.

During an in-depth probe into the dark web, IWF researchers uncovered abusers actively sharing methods to leverage AI tools for creating explicit content. This revelation underscores the ease with which even everyday home computers can be transformed into manufacturing hubs for such images.

While the report primarily aims to highlight this mounting concern, it also urges the establishment of robust legislation to counter AI-generated abuse. The European Union is under pressure to take into account improved surveillance measures that would automatically scan messaging apps for suspect content, even if law enforcement agencies haven't already flagged it.

Read Also: Technology and Emotional Abuse: Understanding Cyberbullying and Its Impact on Your Child

Upcoming AI Safety Summit

On the technology front, recent advancements in AI image generators have largely been designed to prevent misuse. Platforms like OpenAI's DALL-E have been relatively successful in curbing abuse, while others, such as London startup Stability AI's open-source Stable Diffusion, faced challenges with nonconsensual content creation before implementing new safety filters.

In response to the growing concerns, Stability AI emphasized its strict policy against illegal activities on its platforms. However, older, unfiltered versions of their tool remain easily accessible and continue to be the preferred choice for those creating explicit content.

While existing laws in countries like the U.S. and U.K. categorize most AI-generated child sexual abuse images as illegal, the bigger question remains: do law enforcement agencies possess the necessary tools and infrastructure to combat this menace effectively?

The release of the IWF's report is strategically planned ahead of an upcoming global AI safety summit spearheaded by the British government, where leaders like U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris will be in attendance.

Closing her statement, IWF CEO Susie Hargreaves expressed optimism despite the grim situation. Emphasizing the need for broader discourse, she remarked, "It's crucial we understand and discuss the dark potentials of this otherwise incredible technology."

Related Article: How Child Abuse Affects Individuals In Later Life
Photo: (Photo : Photo by Kenny Eliason on Unsplash)

In a shocking revelation, newly unsealed court documents have exposed the grim events that led a Massachusetts mother to allegedly murder her three children at their home in Duxbury.

32-year-old Lindsay Clancy, who was charged with three counts of murder last month, is accused of using exercise bands to strangle her three children-5-year-old Cora, 3-year-old Dawson, and 8-month-old baby Callan-in January. She later attempted suicide by slitting her wrists and jumping from a bedroom window.

Evidence from Search Warrants

These disturbing facts come to light from 299 pages of records that were recently made public by Plymouth District Court. The records indicate 11 search warrants, which have been kept confidential since January. The warrants led to the collection of evidence, including exercise bands, various medications, computers, notebooks, phones, clothing, and a silver knife.

Forensic evidence was also gathered from the shingles and surrounding areas of the second-floor bedroom window at the Clancy residence. This evidence hints at the harrowing sequence of events that transpired on that ill-fated day.

Prosecutors have described the tragic incident as a "well-planned assault". Furthermore, the court documents reveal that Ms. Clancy documented her mental state and feelings about her children on her cellphone and journal. Even more chillingly, she used her phone to research potential methods of murder.

Lindsay's husband, Patrick Clancy, has painted a picture of a woman battling mental health issues. She had expressed anxiety about returning to her job at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she worked as a labor and delivery nurse. Patrick shared with authorities that his wife had been prescribed a plethora of medications, including Zoloft, Valium, Trazadone, Ativan, Klonopin, Prozac, and Seroquel.

Patrick's concerns about Lindsay's deteriorating mental health had been escalating. He had confided in a close family friend, revealing that Lindsay might be undergoing withdrawal from an anxiety medication she had taken the previous month.

Read Also: Mom Facing 3 Counts of Murder and Arson for Stabbing Her Kids to Death, Burning Their House

The Silent Battles of Mental Health

The tragic events of January 24 began seemingly ordinarily. Clancy visited a pediatrician with her daughter, reached out to a local CVS pharmacy about a prescription, and ordered dinner from a Plymouth restaurant, ThreeV. Court records also state that she checked the travel time from her home to the restaurant using Apple Maps. Later, she texted her husband, asking him to pick up the dinner and medication.

However, when Patrick returned home, he was met with a haunting silence. The discovery that followed is unimaginable. He found his wife outside, injured but conscious, having apparently jumped from a window after inflicting cuts to her wrists and neck. Frantically searching for his children, he found them in the basement. While Cora and Dawson were declared dead upon reaching the hospital, baby Callan succumbed to his injuries three days later.

The community and nation are grappling with the horror of this incident, trying to understand how such a tragedy could unfold. It is a grim reminder of the silent battles many face with mental health and the importance of intervention and support.

Related Article: Connecticut Mom Who Murdered Her Children, Then Killed Herself Laid to Rest Alongside Them
Including the Church Fathers Opinion Regarding Authoritative Apostolic Oral Tradition

[see book and purchase information for The Catholic Verses]

excatholic4christ (Tom) was raised Catholic, lost his faith in high school, attended Mass for a while after he married and had children, and then accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior, leading to his sole attendance at an independent fundamental Baptist church for eight years. He claims that the legalism of this church and the fact that his trust had been in men rather than God caused him to walk away from the Lord for 23 years. He returned to the Lord in 2014. As of April 2020, Tom stated that he was somewhere in the middle of the Calvinism-Arminianism debate, but closer to Calvinism. I couldnt determine his denomination. See Toms index of all of his replies. I will now systematically refute them. His words will be in blue. When he cites my words, they will be in black. I use RSV, unless otherwise specified.

*****

This is a reply to Toms article, The Authority of Sacred Tradition?  Part 1 (8-27-23).

With the four verses below, Armstrong argues for the authority of oral tradition:

2 Timothy 1:13-14 Follow the pattern of the sound words which you have heard from me, in the faith and love which are in Christ Jesus; guard the truth that has been entrusted to you by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. 2 Timothy 2:2 And what you have heard from me before many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Jude 3 Beloved, being very eager to write to you of our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. Acts 2:42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

Directly beneath these verses, Armstrong writes, Catholics believe that these verses clearly set forth a notion of binding oral tradition that has as much authority as the written word of Scripture.  p. 12.

The infant church absolutely depended on the oral teachings of Paul and the other apostles, but as the inspired Gospels and apostolic epistles were written and circulated throughout the church, apostolic oral teaching ended with the deaths of the apostles. Gods Word is the sole authority for Christians and all that we need.

The serious difficulties inherent in this viewpoint are threefold:

1) The Bible itself never states that oral tradition would come to an end with the death of the apostles. This is simply (in a great irony) an arbitrary, unsupported Protestant tradition of men. 2) The Church fathers (generalizing) also know of no such ending of oral tradition. 3) The Bible never teaches inscripturation: the arbitrary Protestant man-made tradition which holds that everything needed to be known by the Church (including knowledge previously preserved solely or primarily through oral teachings and preaching) is included in Scripture and that no source outside of it could be authoritative and infallible (which is one of the key tenets of the definition of sola Scriptura: the Protestant rule of faith). See my articles:

Oral Tradition: More Biblical (Pauline) Evidence (. . . and an Examination of the False and Unbiblical Protestant Supposed Refutation of Inscripturation) [2-27-21]

The One-Legged Stool Called Inscripturation is Not Taught in the Bible [National Catholic Register, 3-15-21]

Catholicism claims that it has preserved many of the mysterious, unwritten, extra-Biblical oral teachings of Jesus and the apostles down through the centuries, but how was that done? By word of mouth?

At first, obviously it was by word of mouth, that were heard (2 Tim 1:13-14; 2:2 above; cf. Luke 11:28; Acts 4:4; 13:46; 15:7; Eph 1:13; Phil 4:9; Col 1:5-6; 1 Jn 1:5; 2:7, 24; 2 Jn 1:6; Rev 3:3). Hence, St. Paul also wrote:

1 Thessalonians 2:13 . . . you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers. 2 Thessalonians 2:15 So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter.

The existence of such an ongoing tradition is plainly seen in these two passages:

John 20:30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; John 21:25 But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.

Clearly, if all the world couldnt contain the books if all the deeds and words of Jesus were written, then the amount of oral tradition was very huge indeed: far far greater than the length of the New Testament. Later, much or all of this would be written down, by the Church fathers and others, just as the Jewish oral Torah (also substantiated by the Bible) was, in rabbinical writings. Catholics didnt invent this idea. There it is, right in the inspired, inerrant revelation of Holy Scripture.

Readers can observe how I ground all of my arguments in the Bible (as well as solid patristic testimony), whereas Tom mostly produces biblically unsubstantiated Protestant traditions of men (how ironic, since Protestantism is supposed to be so much more biblical than Catholicism), and playbook propaganda. Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for doing the same thing Tom is doing (Tom tried to cite the same passage against me):

Mark 7:6-8 . . . Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; [7] in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men. [8] You leave the commandment of God, and hold fast the tradition of men.

One would think that, by now, all of those oral teachings would have been collected and published, but you wont find a Compendium of the Oral Teachings/Sacred Traditions of Jesus Christ and the Apostles at your local Catholic bookstore.

Many if not most of them have eventually been written down, and are incorporated into the sacred tradition preserved by the Catholic Church. To learn what doctrines Catholics accept, see Denzingers Enchiridion symbolorum, the standard source; now available in a 2012 edition; edited and translated in part by my good friend, systematic theologian Dr. Robert Fastiggi). Accordingly, St. Augustine wrote:

And this custom, coming, I suppose, from tradition (like many other things which are held to have been handed down under their actual sanction, because they are preserved throughout the whole Church, though they are not found either in their letters, or in the Councils of their successors), . . . (On Baptism, Against the Donatists, II, 7, 12) For if none have baptism who entertain false views about God, it has been proved sufficiently, in my opinion, that this may happen even within the Church. The apostles, indeed, gave no injunctions on the point; but the custom, which is opposed to Cyprian, may be supposed to have had its origin in apostolic tradition, just as there are many things which are observed by the whole Church, and therefore are fairly held to have been enjoined by the apostles, which yet are not mentioned in their writings. (Ibid.., V, 23, 31)

Protestant Church historian Heiko Oberman notes concerning St. Augustine:

Augustines legacy to the middle ages on the question of Scripture and Tradition is a two-fold one. In the first place, he reflects the early Church principle of the coinherence of Scripture and Tradition. While repeatedly asserting the ultimate authority of Scripture, Augustine does not oppose this at all to the authority of the Church Catholic . . . The Church has a practical priority: her authority as expressed in the direction-giving meaning of commovere is an instrumental authority, the door that leads to the fullness of the Word itself. But there is another aspect of Augustines thought . . . we find mention of an authoritative extrascriptural oral tradition. While on the one hand the Church moves the faithful to discover the authority of Scripture, Scripture on the other hand refers the faithful back to the authority of the Church with regard to a series of issues with which the Apostles did not deal in writing. Augustine refers here to the baptism of heretics . . . (The Harvest of Medieval Theology, Grand Rapids, Michigan: Eerdmans, revised 1967 version, 370-371; my bolding)

Patristic scholar J. N. D. Kelly described how St. Irenaeus (130-202) accepted such oral tradition:

His most characteristic thought, however, is that the Church is the sole repository of the truth, and is such because it has a monopoly of the apostolic writings, the apostolic oral tradition and the apostolic faith. . . . [haer. (i.e., Against Heresies) 1, 10, 2]. (Early Christian Doctrines, San Francisco, Ignatius, 1978 edition, 192; my bolding and italics) [T]he identity of oral tradition with the original revelation is guaranteed by the unbroken succession of bishops in the great sees going back lineally to the apostles [Cf. haer. 3, 2, 2; 3, 3, 3; 3, 4, 1]. Secondly, an additional safeguard is supplied by the Holy Spirit, for the message was committed to the Church, and the Church is the home of the Spirit [E.g. ib. 3, 24, 1]. Indeed, the Churchs bishops are on his view Spirit-endowed men who have been vouchsafed an infallible charism of truth (charisma veritatis certum [Ib. 4, 26, 2; cf. 4, 26, 5] ). (Ibid., 37; my bolding and italics)

Protestant Church historian Philip Schaff summarizes the patristic consensus in the time of St. Athanasius (c. 297-373):

The church view respecting the sources of Christian theology and the rule of faith and practice remains as it was in the previous period, except that it is further developed in particulars. The divine Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, as opposed to human writings; and the oral tradition or living faith of the catholic church from the apostles down, as opposed to the varying opinions of heretical sects together form the one infallible source and rule of faith. Both are vehicles of the same substance: the saving revelation of God in Christ; with this difference in form and office, that the church tradition determines the canon, furnishes the key to the true interpretation of the Scriptures, and guards them against heretical abuse. The relation of the two in the mind of the ancient church may be illustrated by the relation between the supreme law of a country (such as the Roman law, the Code Napoleon, the common law of England, the Constitution of the United States) and the courts which expound the law, and decide between conflicting interpretations. (History of the Christian Church, Vol. 3, Chapter IX, section 118: Sources of Theology: Scripture and Tradition, 606-608; my bolding and italics)

Every time that a doctrine was formulated that had no basis in Scripture, the Catholic hierarchy was able to invoke its sacred tradition wild card. Incredulous Catholics were unable to object because the proof allegedly rested upon undocumented and unverifiable oral traditions known only to a privileged few. From this dark hole came such doctrines as purgatory, indulgences, the immaculate conception and assumption of Mary, praying to canonized saints, the pope, the seven sacraments, etc., etc.

Untethered from the sole authority of Gods Word, Catholicism has been able to propagate one un-Biblical teaching after another. In contrast, throughout Gods Word, believers are exhorted to adhere to the sure teachings of Scripture. Yes, there are examples in Scripture when believers were encouraged to obey doctrines that were taught orally, but that was always in connection to teachings that came directly from Paul and the other apostles, not handed down mysteriously over many centuries and made manifest out of the clear blue.

These topics have to be dealt with individually. I dont play the cynical, sneering game of 101 topics at once: with its ridiculous appearance of strength (i.e., to the relatively ignorant and uneducated masses and those inclined to an anti-Catholic standpoint from the outset). I have written entire books  concentrating on biblical support  about all the subjects Tom mentions above: Bible & tradition, purgatory, indulgences, & the saints, Marian doctrines, and papal & Church infallibility (as well as about the Eucharist). I also have written about the historical / patristic / traditional corroboration of Catholic doctrines:

Development of Catholic Doctrine: Evolution, Revolution, or an Organic Process? (June 2002)

Catholic Church Fathers: Patristic and Scholarly Proofs (Nov. 2007 / rev. Aug. 2013)

The Quotable Eastern Church Fathers: Distinctively Catholic Elements in Their Theology (July 2013)

The Quotable Augustine: Distinctively Catholic Elements in His Theology (Sep. 2012)

Orthodoxy and Catholicism: A Comparison (July 2004 / 3rd rev. ed. July 2015; co-author, Byzantine Catholic priest, Fr. Daniel Dozier)

I have shown, conversely, how Protestant distinctive doctrines are unbiblical: and contrary to the history of the Christian Church:

Pillars of Sola Scriptura: Replies to Whitaker, Goode, & Biblical Proofs for Bible Alone (July 2012)

Biblical Catholic Salvation: Faith Working Through Love (Oct. 2010)

Martin Luther: Catholic Critical Analysis and Praise (April 2008)

Biblical Catholic Answers for John Calvin (March 2010)

A Biblical Critique of Calvinism (Oct. 2012)

A very long and in-depth book chronicling my debate on justification with Brazilian Calvinist Francisco Tourinho is currently in process. While we await that, the entire debate is available online, in English.

Moreover, in addition to my book that was critiqued by Tom, I have several other books that provide biblical arguments for any and all of the Catholic distinctives that anyone might bring up:

A Biblical Defense of Catholicism (May 1996 / June 2003)

Proving the Catholic Faith is Biblical: From Priestly Celibacy to the Rosary: 80 Short Essays Explaining the Biblical Basis of Catholicism (July 2015)

The One-Minute Apologist: Essential Catholic Replies to Over Sixty Common Protestant Claims (May 2007)

Bible Proofs for Catholic Truths (Aug. 2009)

Revelation! 1001 Bible Answers to Theological Topics (Oct. 2013)

The Catholic Answer Bible (Sep. 2002; the 44 apologetics inserts are my contribution)

I list these books for the use of serious, open-minded, fair-minded, inquiring non-Catholic readers, who actually want to engage these topics fairly and in the proper depth (rather than learn from soundbites thoroughly biased in one direction only); also for Catholics to be better equipped to defend Catholic doctrines from the Bible and reason, and to have a more confident, informed, robust faith. See book and purchase information for all 53 of my books; most available very inexpensively as e-books ($2.99 or $3.99), and several even for free.

*

Summary: Anti-Catholic Tom tries to draw a wedge between oral and written tradition and the Bible. I show how the Bible plainly espouses both unwritten and written tradition.
Qualcomms upcoming Snapdragon X Elite PC platform is weird.

Twelve cores, all running at 3.8GHz. Normal, right? Not for an Arm chip like Qualcomm manufactures. Weve all become used to performance cores and efficiency cores, and trying to minimize battery life by turning off cores when not in use.

Its become such an accepted part of chip design that Intel followed Arms lead and designed its 12th-gen Alder Lake notebook chips with a mix of performance and efficiency cores. Gamers fumed; why was Intel mixing in low-power, slower efficiency cores when all they wanted was raw speed instead?

Weirdly, thats the approach Qualcomm has taken. Its a potent combination: Snapdragon X Elite performance allegedly doubles Intels 13th-gen chips (a claim that has yet to be tested) while promising multiple days of battery life. Is that even remotely possible?

Qualcomms Kedar Kondap (left) and Nitin Kumar show off the Snapdragon X Elite at the Snapdragon Technology Summit. Mark Hachman / IDG

We dont know. But what Kedar Kondap, Qualcomms senior vice president of compute and gaming, told attendees of the Snapdragon Technology Summit in Maui was that the Oryon CPU at the heart of the Snapdragon X Elite is made up of three clusters of four cores, all running at 3.8GHz. Two of those cores can boost up to 4.3GHz when needed, though how long they can stay there is unknown.

A performance chipfrom Qualcomm?!

The bottom line is every Oryon core in the Snapdragon X Elite is a performance core, something that Intel simply refuses to do. And the total performance (apparently) outpaces Intels own. Furthermore, a Snapdragon X Elite can keep your laptop running for multiple days, Qualcomm says.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to battery life, Kondap said.

Even with all the twelve being performance cores, [they] were significantly better in efficiency than a lot of what you can get in the market today, Kondap added.

Dont get me wrong: Intel could. At every launch, including the recent debut of its 14th-gen Meteor Lake chip in Malaysia, reporters asked about whether Intel would sell an all-performance-core design. But Intel has moved in the opposite direction. Intels Thread Director, which routes tasks to the appropriate cores, now pushes some threads to a new low-power efficiency core instead.

Qualcomm

To be fair, rival AMD has yet to adopt the approach of mixing powerful performance cores with efficiency cores for background tasks. But Intel has simply decided not to market mobile processors where the skys the limit.

Unfortunately, we dont know much more about Qualcomms Snapdragon X Elite chips. They run the Arm v8 instruction set, specifically, Arm v8.7, Nitin Kumar, senior director of product management said. Each cluster of four CPU cores has 12MB of level-2 cache attached, a detail that matters to chip nerds.

The more interesting question is how Qualcomm markets its Snapdragon X Elite platform. Kondap said that the three reference platforms being shown off are 12W, 23W, and 45W, with the latter able to scale to 80W if necessary. Kondap also said that it was interesting that an analyst noted that one group of cores could be sliced off to enable a cheaper, slower, 8-core design.

Qualcomm

Executives also tamped down expectations regarding the gaming capabilities Qualcomm showed off earlier on Wednesday. Were focused on consumer, Kondap said. Were focused on enterprise. Were focused on prosumer based laptops.

Everybody wants to play games casually. Everybody wants to play, be a creator and be able to create content Were not in the high-end gaming market.

One of the Snapdragon X Elite reference designs being shown off Mark Hachman / IDG

Nothing in the chip prohibits connecting to an external GPU, and Qualcomm is simply working to establish the relationships with game and API developers for the future, executives said.

We have aspirations, Kondap said.

Editors Note: To gain access to Qualcomms new Oryon and Snapdragon X Elite platform, Qualcomm offered to pay for PCWorld for room, board and airfare at its Snapdragon Technology Summit. PCWorld accepted, but maintained editorial control of its content.
There has been no outbreak of disease in any of the communities affected by the Akosombo Dam spillage, the Director-General of the Ghana Health Service,Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye has said.



According to him, the Ghana health service is pleased with the efficiency of the health protocol put place to manage the health situation in the communities.



We are quite satisfied that two weeks into this disaster, we have not had any outbreak of disease, which often happens in many countries and many places. So, we have simply come to support the districts in continuing the work they are doing, Dr. Kuma-Aboagye said in an interview with CIti fm after visiting some of the affected communities Wednesday.



He added, We have brought some relief items, as well as mental health experts and psychologists, to assess the situation and determine what needs to be done. In the long term, those who have been displaced will need psycho-social support, and we are also here to look at the plight of the 271 health workers who are part of the displaced community.



Dr. Kuma Aboagye also added that any presence of disease in the affected community was pre-existing before the floods.



The Volta River Authority has been on hand to supply relief items and support to victims of the spillage since it has begun some two weeks ago.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Tillys Farm, through its annual Career Day programme, has enlightened second cycle agriculture students on their role in contributing to the sector of the economy. The event, held at the Achimota School, brought together experts in the agric space who through their interactions with the students, drew their attention to the numerous opportunities available in the agric value chain.



Addressing the students, who were also taken on a field trip to Golden Exotics, the Co-Founder of Tillys Farm, Boatemaa Hammond, noted that with the right direction and support many youths will gladly venture into the agricultural space.



Similarly, the Executive Director of Kosmos Innovation Center (KIC), Benjamin Gyan-Kesse, speaking at the event, urged the students not to underrate the path they have taken, but rather view it as a big task since everyone relies on food to survive. You have chosen a path that will help you to do a lot for yourself. There is a lot of responsibility on you, so when you walk around campus, I want you to walk around with confidence knowing that your choice of study is critical to human existence.



He stressed on the need to leverage technology to grow the sector and added that agribusiness is not only about production but also includes rendering of services and distribution of agricultural products.



The second edition of the Career Day was themed The right to wholesome food, our shared responsibility,which Mrs. Hammond explained highlights Tillys Farms contributions to making quality food available to the consuming public.

Sharing the genesis of Tillys Farm with the students, the Managing Director and Co-Founder of Tillys Farm, Maxwell Q. Hammond, advised them to utilise every opportunity they come across while in school.



Years ago people thought agric was not a cool area of study because of the delivery and the practical aspect of it, which included students going to work in the piggery etc. But I ask that you take those experiences seriously, before you create better systems and products you need to master the basics. It is the basis of great things. Now, young people are doing great things, but what you dont see is that they have solid foundation which is what you are also doing now.



Head of Department, Agric at the Achimota SHS, David Ziga, emphasised the significance of the event to the students, saying: It trains them to be creators and not job seekers and serves as a platform for students to learn from experts as well.



Every October, Tillys Farm embarks on a number of activities to draw awareness on pig production, its consumption, and value chain. The activities which includes training for farmers climaxes with field trips and Career Day for Agric students in SHS to commemorate Porktober, an international celebration of pork.



Talking about the future for Tillys Farm, Boatemaa Hammond said we intend to widen the scope of Porktober celebrations to include more schools. Also, we intend to expand our operations to include more farmers and assist them technically with more training so they can produce the wholesome pork that we are known for.



Tillys Farm Limited (TFL) is a Ghanaian-owned agro-processing company that works with a network of smallholder farmers to raise pigs for processing into pork and pork products, which includes different kinds of fresh and smoked sausages as well as cuts of pork like ribs, shanks and thigh.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Workers at a South African mine have begun to resurface after being held underground for three days in what police are calling a hostage situation.



Hostage-takers armed with weapons like clubs and mining tools had held more than 500 miners at the Gold One mine, the police said on Wednesday.



The miners were trapped amid a dispute between two trade unions.



The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) said "hooligans" had held its members against their will.



But the rival Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) denied it had trapped workers at the mine, located near Johannesburg. Amcu insisted the miners were there willingly and were staging a "sit-in" protest.



More than 100 employees re-emerged from the mine on Wednesday morning. One worker, who requested to remain anonymous, told the BBC: "I forced my way out because I was worried for my health."



"Lwazi" said he had some empathy for Amcu, which has been fighting for legal recognition at the mine for around five months. NUM currently has a "closed shop" agreement with the Gold One mine, which means it is the only union allowed to represent workers there.



"Although I agree with the fight for another union to be allowed to organise at the mine I can't say I support the method they have taken," Lwazi said.



Workers' families were gathered outside the mine on Wednesday, waiting for their loved ones to emerge.



One woman told the BBC she had been camped out since Monday morning, after her husband failed to return from his shift the night before.



"I am hurting. I do not know when my husband will return. He is not well... he has tuberculosis.



"My husband is the breadwinner. I'm even afraid of going back home as I won't be able to answer my children's questions," she said.



Police spokesperson Brenda Mudiri said officers were interviewing miners as they left the mine.



"Those we interviewed have told us they were held against their will. They told us about 15 hostage-takers. We are unable to say which union these hostage-takers belong to," she said.



Management at the mine echoed the police and NUM's assessments that the miners had been held hostage.



Amcu has accused Gold One bosses of colluding with the NUM, an allegation the mine denies.

Source: BBC









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Following an ambitious target of achieving 20 million active members by the close of the year 2023, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), 20th Anniversary celebration has been officially launched at the La Palm-Royal Beach Hotel in Accra.



Unveiled on October 25, 2023, the year-long nationwide celebration is under the theme, Health Heroes:20 years strong, and this is to serve as a reflection of NHIS significant contribution to providing financial risks protection against high costs of healthcare services to all residents in Ghana.



A series of activities lined up for the celebration are a blood donation exercise nationwide, MyNHIS APP Storm in regional capitals, NHIS Data Day, a Symposium on identified topical diseases, the inauguration of the upgraded Takpo Health Center into an ultra-modern Polyclinic in the Upper West Region, Legends unveiled: Honoring our Heroes event, Awards Night, and Gospel Rock show.



Past Chief Executives



At 20, the NHIS can so far boast of eight (8) Chief Executives. They are Dr. Samuel Akor, Honorable Kwaku Agyemang-Manu, Mr. Ras Boateng, Mr. Sylvester Mensah, Mr. Nathaniel Otoo, Dr. Samuel Yaw Annor, Dr. Lydia Dsane-Selby and the incumbent Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye.



Inaugural addresses



In a brief speech, the Deputy Health Minister, who doubles as the Member of Parliament for Daboya/Mankarigu in the Savannah Region, Alhaji Mahama Asei Seini applauded the NHIS monumental achievements and unwavering commitment to progress.



He urged management and staff to remain steadfast and ensure that no one in Ghana is left behind in having access to affordable and quality healthcare services.



NHIA Board Chair



The NHIA Governing Board Chairman, Dr. Ernest K. P Kwarko in his welcome address posited that the NHIS represented extraordinary achievements in Ghana's health financing history.



He mentioned improved Claims payments, increased credentialed healthcare facilities and taking care of the health needs of all residents of Ghana as some of the success stories.



He sounded unequivocally that the Governing Board and executive management remained committed to eliminating what he described as the Dreaded Co-payments syndrome.



Dr. Ernest Kwarko commended NHIS management and staff for their dedicated service and forward march to Achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by the year 2030.



Chief Executive



The NHIA Chief Executive, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye recapped the NHIS achievements over the past two decades, emphasizing the role it continuous to play in Ghanas healthcare financing.



He paid tribute to former President John Agyekum Kufours led New Patriotic Party (NPP) led governments far-reaching thought which birthed the NHIS in the year 2003.



He said over the years, the NHIS had committed to providing affordable and quality healthcare to its members and added that management was determined to keep moving in the right direction.



According to Dr. Okoe Boye, the NHIS has been a training ground for sister nations in the Subregion and still attracts foreign delegations visits to the NHIA, Head Office, on study tours.



He touted Ghana and Rwanda as the two outstanding African nations whose health insurance covers more than half of the national populations.



Anniversary Planning Committee Chair



The Anniversary Planning Committee Chair, NHIA Deputy Chief Executive responsible for Administration/Human Resources, Dr. Yaa Pokuaa Baiden (Mrs.) called for a renewed vigor and passion among staff to deliver their mandate in ensuring that healthcare is a fundamental right for all residents of Ghana.



Healthcare knows no boundaries. Let us reaffirm our commitment to the NHIS and together we shall safeguard the valuable health and wellbeing of all.

She spelt out a comprehensive program for the nationwide celebrations and urged staff to go the extra mileage and enroll more increase the NHIS active membership.



There were solidarity speeches from development partners, especially the Christian Health Association, Ghana (CHAG).



Action



During the period, there will blood donation exercises across the country to help stock the National Blood Bank, as a means of saving lives. This forms part of the NHIS Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).



Through an event dubbed MYNHIS APP Storm, nationwide, there will be a conscious effort to promote the latest electronic platform known as MyNHIS. The goal is to assist the public in understanding how to download and use the platform for enrollment and membership renewal.

In collaboration with PharmAccess Ghana, a Data day is set aside to celebrate the importance of leveraging technology and data in ensuring positive health outcomes. This will highlight the importance of NHIS Staff evidence-based document submitted for decision-making in healthcare delivery.



There will be a Symposium that will convene key stakeholders, such as private health insurance organizations, pharmaceutical companies, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, and the Ghana Medical Association to deliberate on topical diseases and issues that impose a substantial cost burden on the NHIS.



The NHIA in partnership with the support of government and other major stakeholders in the health ecosystem upgraded the Takpo Health Centre into an ultra-modern Poly Clinic in the Nadowli constituency of the Upper West Region. The project will be inaugurated during the Anniversary celebration.



Another pillar of the celebration is to pay tribute to past distinguished personalities at an event called Legends: Honoring Our Icons. By this arrangement, images and significant statements of past Presidents of Ghana, NHIA former Chief Executives and former Directors will be displayed at vantage points of the various Directorates.



The year-long celebrations will be climaxed by an Awards Night and Gospel Rock Show, which is designed to reward dedicated and hard working NHIS staff who have served for almost 20 years.



The Gospel Rock Show is honor God for the many blessings he has bestowed on the NHIS, especially its sustainability.



Future outlook



The 20th Anniversary celebration is grounded in the strategic direction of the current NHIA transformational leadership, known as the 5Ds-, anchored on Digitization, Data, Dissemination, Decentralization, and Development.



These pillars underscore the NHIS's significance in Ghana's healthcare landscape and set the course for its future development.

Source: Abdul Karim Naatogmah /Peacefmonline com









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Nana Obiri Boahen, a private legal practitioner, has filed a writ at the Sunyani High Court against the Newmont Ahafo North Project, for causing extensive damages to his farmland and other property running into millions of Ghana cedis.



He is, therefore, seeking an order from the court to compel the mining giant to pay adequate compensation for the destruction caused.



An accompanying affidavit filed by the Enso Nyame Ye Chambers, a Sunyani-based legal firm and counsel, is further praying the court to award general damages to the plaintiff for trespass, inconvenience and trauma.



A copy of the affidavit, made available to the Ghana News Agency in Sunyani on Wednesday, explained the plaintiff had acquired the land situated at Tomesereso along the Tanoso-Afrisipa portion of the Sunyani-Kumasi Highway and another tract of land at Tanoso in 1996.



Subsequently, the plaintiff cultivated teak trees in a straight line to demonstrate his effective occupation and possession of the land, and built a cottage, which had been in existence for almost 20 years.



In and around 2021, publication was made in a national newspaper that the Government of Ghana was extending the frontiers of the road leading up from Tanoso to Techire through Afrisipa, the affidavit said.



In response to the said publication, the plaintiff asked a surveyor to undertake the surveying exercise and the map was duly submitted to the Lands Commission both in the Bono and the Ahafo regions, it stated.



However, tbout a couple of weeks ago, the Newmont Ahafo North project caused her agents to clear sizable portions of the land without the knowledge, consent and concurrence of the plaintiff.



The market value of the properties destroyed by the agents of Newmont runs into millions of Ghana cedis.





Source: GNA









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The Minister for Works and Housing and Member of Parliament for Bantama constituency, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye, has been honoured with the distinguished award of Ghana's Best Minister for Infrastructure Development in 2023.



This recognition is a tribute to his contributions to the enhancement of infrastructure, particularly in the domains of housing and public works, since he assumed his role as Minister in 2021.



The Minister received the award at the Ghana Chamber of Construction's 2023 Awards for Industrial Players, held at the Accra International Conference Centre on Wednesday, October 25, 2023.



During the event, Asenso-Boakye reaffirmed the government's commitment to prioritizing infrastructure development in the nation. He emphasized that the government is actively fostering an environment conducive to private-sector investment.



He also highlighted the advantages of public-private partnerships (PPP) in addressing the country's infrastructural needs, noting that the private sector contributes not only financial resources but also innovation, expertise, and efficiency, all crucial for the successful execution of projects.



In recognition of this, he pointed out that in 2020, the Ghanaian government enacted Public Private Partnership Act 1039, aimed at streamlining regulations, reducing bureaucracy, and enhancing the framework to boost confidence among private sector entities and attract the necessary capital for infrastructure projects.



Upon receiving the award, Minister Asenso-Boakye expressed his gratitude by saying, "When your work is acknowledged, it serves as a powerful motivator to work even harder. I must say, this award will serve as a significant source of inspiration for both myself and m

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Hundreds of residents of the Moroccan town of Amizmiz have protested against local authorities, weeks after a deadly earthquake destroyed their homes.



Amizmiz, located 34 miles (55km) south of Marrakesh, was one of the hardest hit by the 8 September earthquake.



It was the worst to strike Morocco in more than 60 years, killing nearly 3,000 people and leaving thousands more injured and homeless.



The residents accuse local authorities of delaying aid and neglecting them.



Following the earthquake, authorities put up displaced families in tented camps, accompanied by a promise of financial assistance to help rebuild their homes.



But the protesters now say they cannot continue living in the camps as conditions are deteriorating, with heavy rains and winds hitting the region and temperatures dropping as winter approaches.



The protesters also accuse local authorities of withholding assistance, including tents, from some of the residents who lost their homes.



The protest went ahead on Tuesday despite the withdrawal of the Amizmiz Earthquake Victims' Co-ordination group, which had organised the protest.



The group said they had pulled out after local authorities promised to address their concerns.



They said that the authorities had promised to speed up assistance, including providing new tents to those who had not previously been given any, and those whose tents had been damaged by the harsh weather.



They also pledged to improve sanitation at the camps and provide the displaced with access to water and electricity.



Morocco's King Mohammed VI last month announced 120bn Moroccan dirhams ($11.6bn; 9.4bn) over five years to rebuild the regions impacted by the earthquake and support the more than 4.2 million affected people.



The plan includes a pledge to grant 140,000 dirhams in reconstruction aid to each household with a collapsed home and 80,000 for each household whose home was partially damaged.



Earlier this month, the government said it had started disbursing 2,500 dirhams in monthly assistance to each affected household, as part of a year-long cash relief program.



Morocco's government faced criticism from some citizens in the aftermath of the earthquake after it turned down some offers of international aid, despite thousands desperately needing urgent assistance.



"I think it is really an error [to insist on] sovereignty and national pride. This is not the moment to refuse because the aid is essential, even developed countries accept outside help [in disasters]," activist Maati Mounjib told the BBC's Newsday programme at the time.

Source: BBC









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Details added (first version published at 14:40)

BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB), managed by ICGB, has announced the receipt of the last installment of funds from the European energy program, the company told Trend.

This final tranche, amounting to 22.1 million euros, was granted under the European Energy Program for Recovery (EEPR) to support the implementation of the Greece-Bulgaria gas interconnector, following a successful external audit.

The overall project, with a total value of 253 million euros, has secured financing from various sources. This includes contributions from shareholders BEH and IGI Poseidon, a 109.9 million euros worth loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB), 45 million euros from the European Energy Program for Recovery (EEPR), and an additional 39 million euros allocated under the Operational Program "Innovations and Competitiveness" (OPIC 2014-2020).

ICGB's financial milestones include the approval of the final tranche of a long-term loan from the EIB in early November 2022, following a successful audit conducted by independent international experts. The last payment under OPIC was received in May 2023.

Importantly, even as the funding for the interconnector reaches full utilization, ICGB is committed to ensuring the project's compliance with EU and national regulations and legislation. To that end, independent audits will continue during the commercial operation phase of the IGB pipeline, with annual on-site inspections and documentation reviews as part of this ongoing commitment to regulatory and legal conformity, the company said.

The IGB gas pipeline connects with the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) in the area of Komotini (Greece), and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) in the area of Stara Zagora. The total length of the gas pipeline is 182 km, the diameter of the pipe - 32'' - and a design capacity of up to 3 billion m3/year in the direction Greece - Bulgaria.

The gas pipeline enables the transportation of natural gas from new sources to other countries in the region as well, including Moldova and Ukraine.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
The flagbearer of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) and his party executives have been slammed for politicising flood victims misery by the New Patriotic Party (NPP) after they used the issue to criticise the government.



Severe flooding has hit some areas in Volta and Eastern Regions in towns and villages along the Lower Volta River enclave, with Mepe being the worst affected after a spillage from the Akosombo and Kpong Dams.



With Ghana just a year and two months from the general election, the NDC was quick to try to seize on the impact of the floods, creating the impression that the government does not care.



Mr. Mahama and some notable members of the NDC have created the impression that if the floods had happened elsewhere other than the NDC stronghold, a state of emergency would have been declared.



It is clear that the scope and scale of the flooding of communities along the Volta River is bigger than our crippled economy can bear.



I recommend to the Government to declare a State of Emergency in the affected areas and request relief assistance from our bilateral and multilateral partners immediately, the NDC flagbearer wrote on his Facebook page.



Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority Leader in Parliament, and his colleague Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, MP for North Tongu, have also accused President Akufo-Addo of being insensitive, pleading with him to apologise to flood victims for his humorous comment that they did not vote for him.



NPP



However, the ruling NPPs Director of Communications, Richard Ahiagbah, has chastised the NDC flagbearer and his supporters for engaging in tribal politics in the midst of a disaster.



Mr. Ahiagbah stated that the NPP will not allow the opposition to use ethnocentric remarks to sow discord and instability in the country.



The idea that government will stand aloof and have people suffer is something that I cant fathom, but that was the notion the NDC and its flagbearer is advancing in the Volta Region, creating the impression government doesnt care about them and its painful, he noted.



He pointed out that when the unfortunate incident happened, the NDC was in the Volta Region campaigning and telling the people that because they are Ewes, the government will not support them, and this I see to be unfortunate.



He stated that President Akufo-Addo will continue to shame his critics because he has proven to be a president for all throughout the years.



President Akufo-Addo was in the Volta Region because a portion of the Ghanaian population he leads were in crisis and not because they voted or didnt vote for him, he intimated.

Source: dailyguidenetwork.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
In a captivating speech delivered at the University of Calgary, amidst the rich display of Ghanaian culture by the Royal Cultural Dancers of Calgary, former President John Mahama of Ghana enthralled a packed University of Calgary auditorium with his vision for the future of Ghana and the opportunities it offers for investors, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts.



In a packed hall, the event was attended by University of Calgary Leaders, Deans, Professors, and students from diverse backgrounds, all eager to hear the insights and aspirations of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's recent history.



Former President Mahama began his address by praising Ghana as a thriving example of peaceful democracy in Africa. He emphasized the country's successful democratic transitions and its commitment to the rule of law, highlighting the stable political environment that makes Ghana an attractive destination for investment and business.



One of the central themes of President Mahama's speech was the vibrant landscape of rapidly growing businesses in Ghana, particularly in the FINTECH and technological services sectors. He underlined the potential for investors to participate in these burgeoning industries, which hold promise in elevating Ghana's status as a middle-income country.



"Today, Ghana is not just a land of opportunities, but a hub for innovation, technology, and economic growth," President Mahama stated, while inviting international investors to explore and invest in the thriving Ghanaian business ecosystem. He further stressed that Ghana is on the way out of the economic woe of the pandemic and he can see a better economic stability for businesses to thrive.



A day earlier, the former President also demonstrated his commitment to promoting Ghana as a desired destination for tourism, business, and culture. He recounted his recent meeting with the Alberta business community and thousands of Ghanaians and Africans in Western Canada, during which he showcased the numerous attractions that Ghana has to offer.



Furthermore, President Mahama stressed the importance of fostering a politically healthy platform for the younger generation to learn from and engage in conversations that prioritize Ghana over political parties. This message aligns with his vision for a united Ghana that transcends political divisions and works towards common goals for the betterment of the nation. He said Ghanaian leadership cannot do business as usual and expect a different outcome. The time for a renewed leadership of accountability is now.



The President of the Ghanaian Canadian Association of Calgary, Dr. Charles Odame-Ankrah, warmly welcomed President Mahama and expressed hope that his influence and good office would create the foundation for productive dialogues among the youth, enabling them to take a patriotic and non-partisan approach to discussions about their nation's future.



Former President John Mahama's speech at the University of Calgary not only inspired the audience but also shed light on the promising future of Ghana as a nation open to investment, tourism, and cultural exchange. His vision for a united and prosperous Ghana continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reiterating Ghana's position as a beacon of democracy and economic potential in Africa.

Source: Dr Charles Odame Ankrah, Calgary, Canada









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
Kwamena Duncan, a former Minister for Central Region, has replied former Supreme Court Justice, Justice William Atuguba on his criticism of the Supreme Court's judgment in the case of the Assin North legislator, Gyakye Quayson.



Speaking at a public lecture held on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, the retired Supreme Court Judge described the court's decision as "scandalous".



"The James Gyakye Quayson's decision by the Supreme Court is with all due respect scandalous in that the court, in the teeth of the settled maxim Res Judicata et non quieta movere, re adjudicated the same matter that has been adjudicated upon by the High court on the merits", he said.



He continued; "The Supreme Court does not stand in good light with all due respect in disqualifying Gyakye Quayson, despite his clear certificate of renunciation of his Canadian citizenship as from 26th November 2020 whereas the elections were on December 7. I am not able to see substantial justice in this."



"If the certificate of renounciation is so mandatory and conclusive why was it not conclusive in its effect to qualify Gyakye Quason when he received it, dated 26th November 2020, whereas the parliamentary election was held on 7th December 2020? Statutes, judgements, and documents must always be applied with consistency both in the letter and spirit. These must always be construed holistically and as instruments of justice since it is a well-settled principle that the duty of a court is to do justice and a court should not be turned away from doing justice," he added.



Critiquing these statements by Justice Atuguba, Kwamena Duncan, on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" programme Wednesday morning, accused the former Supreme Court Judge of doing the bidding of the opposition National Democratic Congress.



"It is extraterritorial NDC agenda", he exclaimed.



He wondered why Justice Atuguba never raised these concerns until he retired and also cast doubts on the genuineness of his commentaries on the Apex Court's verdict on lawmaker Gyakye Quayson.



Kwamena Duncan said "so, those times, Atuguba could indeed marshall the power of the Judiciary, the power conferred on them, to do what he could do to sentence people for contempt. Today, after leaving the place, there's no real independence. It is all to add to that agenda".



"The real independence, the real separation of powers, the security of tenure of Judges, you are seeing this only after leaving the Supreme Court that while you were in active service, you didn't see those? And who tells you that if you saw them, whilst in active service, you couldn't have said them?", he asked Mr. Atuguba.





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
Government Spokesperson, Kofi Tonto has expressed disappointment in former Supreme Court Justice, William Atuguba over his recent comments on the Judiciary at a public lecture.



Justice William Atuguba, addressing a gathering at a public lecture on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, described the court's verdict as "scandalous".



"The James Gyakye Quayson's decision by the Supreme Court is with all due respect scandalous in that the court, in the teeth of the settled maxim Res Judicata et non quieta movere, re adjudicated the same matter that has been adjudicated upon by the High court on the merits."



"The Supreme Court does not stand in good light with all due respect in disqualifying Gyakye Quayson, despite his clear certificate of renunciation of his Canadian citizenship as from 26th November 2020 whereas the elections were on December 7. I am not able to see substantial justice in this", he said.



He added; "If the certificate of renounciation is so mandatory and conclusive why was it not conclusive in its effect to qualify Gyakye Quason when he received it, dated 26th November 2020, whereas the parliamentary election was held on 7th December 2020? Statutes, judgements, and documents must always be applied with consistency both in the letter and spirit. These must always be construed holistically and as instruments of justice since it is a well-settled principle that the duty of a court is to do justice and a court should not be turned away from doing justice."



The former Justice is also said to have slammed the current Supreme Court Justices stating they are being lopsided in their work.



But Kofi Tonto finds Justice Atuguba's remarks ridiculous as he questions since when did he notice these things.



He sought to understand why Mr. Atuguba never raised these concerns while he hadn't retired yet, saying it looks like "retirees in Ghana always find solutions to the problem they contributed to creating".



He reminded the former Judge of some of his pronouncements as a presiding Judge during the 2012 Supreme Court petition case and the swiftness at which he delivered the verdict in favor of the opposition National Democratic Congress.



"Was Mr. Atuguba in Ghana during the Supreme Court 2012? Didn't he hear what Ghanaians said?...If people have lost confidence in our Judiciary, is it today that they lost the confidence?", he asked.



He added, during that time, Ghanaians "accused you (Atuguba) of having political allegiances" but he was unhappy.



"But today, you say these things to tarnish the image of your colleagues. Do you know how they also feel?"



Kofi Tonto, delivering his submissions on Peace FM's morning show "Kokrokoo", admonished Justice Atuguba to refrain from making such commentaries, especially when, to him, Mr. Atuguba was a part of the problem he is now accusing the apex court of.



"The problems in our Judiciary didn't begin today and when President Akufo-Addo is no longer there, the problems in Ghana's Judiciary will continue to exist because the challenges have gained roots," he replied.



Watch video below





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
After leaving a Labor Day weekend barbecue in Harrisburg, a man beat his friend unconscious and left him for dead at a city intersection, where he was run over minutes later, police said in court documents filed earlier this month.

Donte J. Pickens, 31, of New York City, is charged with homicide, theft, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in connection to the Sept. 3 death of Jonathan Jacob, 37, at North Sixth and Radnor streets, according to police.

An affidavit of probable cause said Jacob, of Elmont, New York, was found dead at the intersection around 2 a.m., wearing shorts but no shirt.

Court documents provided the following account:

Two witnesses told police they saw a dark-colored sedan pull up to the 2600 block of North Sixth Street early Sept. 3. Three men got out of the car, which police said was registered to Jacob.

Two of the men started to fight, and in the process, Jacobs head was slammed into the pavement. The two other men kicked Jacob to see if he would move. When he did not, the men left Jacob lying in the road, got back into Jacobs car and drove away, the affidavit said.

A passing car ran over Jacob about two minutes later, the affidavit said. Police said the driver fled the scene but was later identified and interviewed. Charges have not been filed against the driver.

Jacobs girlfriend told police he left New York to go on a trip to Atlantic City with two other men. Around 1:40 a.m. Sept. 3, he texted that he was on his way back to New York, court documents said.

Court documents said Jacob asked his girlfriend to call him. She told police she could hear the mens conversation during the call.

Youre doing too much, one of the men said. Im sorry, Jacob responded.

The girlfriend said she later heard a man say Put your hands up, followed by Get up, Hes not moving, and finally, Hes dead, according to court documents.

Harrisburg police were able to identify Pickens as one of the men Jacob was traveling with because of a Pennsylvania State Police traffic stop on the Turnpike around 9 p.m. Sept. 2, while the men were on their way to Harrisburg.

Jacob told the trooper the men were going to Harrisburg for a party, court documents said.

After Jacob was killed, Pickens and the third man were caught on surveillance cameras getting out of Jacobs car at the Sunoco gas station on the 2700 block of North Sixth Street, according to the affidavit.

Jacobs unoccupied car was recovered in New York City on Sept. 4, police said.

On Sept. 14, the third man whod been traveling with Jacob and Pickens told police they traveled to Harrisburg to go to a barbecue at the mans sisters house. He said Pickens fought with Jacob because Jacob was drinking all day and doing too much at the party, according to court documents.

The Dauphin County Coroners Office announced last month that Jacobs death was ruled a homicide as a result of multiple traumatic injuries. Investigators did not say at the time whether they believed the beating, being run over, or both caused Jacobs death.

Online court records show Pickens is still at large as of Thursday. The charges against him were filed Oct. 5.

A GoFundMe organized after Jacobs death said he is survived by his daughter, who is a toddler.

Ten homicides were recorded in Harrisburg this year. Five are unsolved.

Donte Pickens (Courtesy of Harrisburg Bureau of Police)harrisburg police

READ MORE:

State police thought Harrisburg woman died by suicide on I-83 bridge. They were wrong

Man dies after being shot at memorial for teen killed in crash with Harrisburg police
By Tanasia Kenney, The Charlotte Observer (TNS)

An Alabama bus driver is accused of driving drunk with a bus full of students on board, police told multiple outlets.

James Chaney, 46, was arrested Oct. 17 and charged with driving under the influence and reckless endangerment, The South Alabamian reported, citing Jackson Police Chief Jerry Taylor.

Authorities said his blood alcohol level was more than 16 times the states legal limit.

Around 4:20 p.m., an officer stopped the bus at the end of its route as it returned to Jackson Middle School in Clarke County, according to WKRG. Police said someone called to report a suspected drunken driver, The South Alabamian reported.

Chaney, a transportation mechanic for the district, agreed to a field sobriety test  and failed, police told WALA. He was subbing as a bus driver that afternoon.

The test result showed Chaneys blood alcohol level to be .33, Taylor told WKRG. The legal limit in Alabama for a person operating a commercial vehicle, or bus, in Alabama is .02.

To reach a blood alcohol level of .30, a person would have to consume at least six to seven alcoholic drinks in an hour, though this measure changes based on ones weight and gender, according to Notre Dame College.

That level of drunkenness can land you in a stupor-like state, health experts said, adding: You have little comprehension of where you are. You may suddenly pass out at this point and be difficult to awaken.

Police said all the students had been dropped off by the time Chaney was stopped. Its not clear how many were on his route that day.

A Clarke County School Board member told WALA the mechanic has since been fired.

Naturally, driving under the influence of alcohol anytime is an egregious violation due to the number of injuries and deaths accidents cause, Taylor told the station. But especially when youre operating a school bus filled with school children under the influence of alcohol. ...

In my opinion that just takes it to the next level, he said.

McClatchy News reached out to Jackson police and Clarke County Schools for comment Oct. 25 but hasnt heard back.

Clarke County is about 70 miles northeast of Mobile.
Philadelphia police said they have arrested the man they believe is responsible for killing journalist Josh Kruger in his home earlier this month.

Robert Edmond Davis, 19, was arrested at his Philadelphia home on Wednesday and is expected to be charged with murder and other related crimes, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Davis was on the run for over two weeks, but he and his mother, Damica Davis, arranged for him to surrender to police at about 8:40 p.m.

Lt. Hamilton Marshmond of the Philadephia Police Department told 6ABC that Kruger and Davis knew each other and that Kruger was trying to help Davis, who reportedly had experienced homelessness, out.

Davis mother and older brother, however, told the Inquirer that the pair had been in a relationship since Davis was 15, and that Kruger had been abusive and had threatened to post sexually explicit videos of Davis.

He was scared, Damica Davis said to the news outlet. He said ... He wanted me to do some stuff I didnt want to do, and if I didnt do it, he said he was going to blackmail me.

Kruger, 39, was shot seven times inside his home in the Point Breeze section of the city on Oct. 2. He ran outside to get help but collapsed on the sidewalk. He was taken to a hospital where he died shortly afterward.

Police told 6ABC they have video of Davis in the area of Krugers home prior to the shooting. Officials also said that Davis and Kruger exchanged text messages and that drugs were found in Krugers home.

Having battled drug addiction and experienced homelessness, Kruger was known as an advocate for the citys most vulnerable constituents, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.

A former spokesperson for the citys Office of Homeless Services, Kruger had written for multiple Philadelphia-area publications, including The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Magazine, The Philadelphia Citizen, WHYY and Billy Penn.
Placing an armed security officer in every public school enjoys support from a strong majority of Pennsylvanians, according to a new Franklin & Marshall College Poll.

The poll, released Thursday morning, found 69% of voters favor requiring school districts to put an armed officer in every school. Additionally, 73% say they believe it would make schools safer.

This result comes just two days after the Senate Education Committee put its stamp of approval on legislation that would mandate a trained, armed school police, school resource or school security officer to be in every school building during school hours. It would leave it up to the schools discretion whether that extends to extra-curricular activities.

Sen. Mike Regan, R-Cumberland/York counties, who sponsored the bill, said the poll findings tell him he is on the right track with this legislation that drew opposition from Democrats on the committee as well as advocates for public school and gun control organizations.

Im anxious for my colleagues to see the results of that poll because I dont think they realize how important it is to the families of Pennsylvania, Regan said.

Despite the polls findings, Sen. Lindsey Williams of Allegheny County, the ranking Democrat on the education committee, stands by her position that bringing guns into schools isnt the answer to making students safer. She points to research on gun violence in schools that indicates armed security in schools do not prevent school shootings.

In fact, guns in schools are shown to make school shootings nearly three times more lethal, she said. Research shows that what does make kids and educators safer is more mental health supports such as school counselors and social workers. More caring adults in every school building is what students, parents, and educators ask me for every day. Not a single organization has come out in support of requiring guns in every school building and there are good reasons why.

The same poll also found 58% of the 873 of the respondents favored more gun regulations while 41% oppose it. The poll conducted Oct. 11 to 22 had a plus or minus 4.1% margin of error.

Berwood Yost, director of F&Ms Center for Opinion Research, said seeing a majority of people favoring more gun regulation at the same time they favor having armed security in school caught him by surprise.

Trying to reconcile those results, Yost said he thinks people look at the two issues through different lenses. The armed school security is about keeping kids safe and secure in school while the gun regulation is about guns and gun safety.

Williams said, I understand why a simple solution to a complex problem could be seen favorably, especially since many people are looking for common sense gun safety legislation such as safe storage and reporting lost/stolen firearms. "

At the Senate committee hearing, Democrats raised concerns about having a firearm in school as well as the cost of implementing the initiative. Regan estimates the cost up to $250 million, while Democrats say a stakeholder group suggests it could $1 billion or more. The Democratic senators also questioned whether the state would pick up that tab or whether schools would have to divert funding for textbooks or educators to pay for the security personnel.

Regan said schools have been provided $800 million since 2018 for school security measures and districts are sitting on $3.2 billion in their unassigned fund balance.

He acknowledged schools already have the option of employing a school security officer but he is proposing to mandate they do so because roughly only half of the 500 school districts employed at least one.

As a former U.S. marshal, Regan finds that frustrating. He points out the Capitol spends $25.1 million to provide security for the people who choose to work and visit the building while children who are mandated to be in school sit in buildings that are far less secure.

Its embarrassing, he said.

Hearing school boards and school officials openly discuss security plans signals to him that leaving those decisions in the hands of educators is wrongheaded.

He said, This is a complex issue and having administrators with little or no training in this field are making decision that are going to impact on kids safety when theyre really not qualified to do so.

Reagans bill now awaits consideration by the full Senate.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @JanMurphy.
The weathered and worn wooden grave marker has stood for more than 125 years in a historic Berks County, Pennsylvania, cemetery.

According to experts, it could belong to a Civil War soldier.

Now, it is preserved and will be replaced.

According to Kutztown University, the grave marker is Berks Countys oldest and last remaining wooden grave marker. A new one has been created and will be placed on Nov. 1, 2023, in Bern Cemetery and Historic Graveyard in collaboration with the universitys Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center.

The wood marker is the original and has stood for more than 125 years behind Bern Reformed Church in Bern Twp., Berks County.

The university said the marker will be permanently preserved after being carefully documented and removed in December of 2020 by graveyard specialists Michael Emery of the Pennsylvania Historic Museum Commission and Patrick Donmoyer of Kutztown University.

The removal was timely, as the original grave marker had become delicate and unstable, and a heavy snowstorm blew through the region less than a week after the markers removal to safety, the university said in a news release.

Were grateful that the center stepped forward to preserve this fragile piece of history while giving us a replacement, said James M. Beidler, one of the cemetery companys trustees.

While we dont currently know the name attached to this marker, we will continue to research to see if the deceased can be identified. It is possible that the individual was a Civil War soldier, since a flag marker has been placed at the burial site and the estimated time period of burial in the 1890s was a time when many soldiers from the conflict passed.

There is no name visible on heavily weathered grave marker.

According to local Pennsylvania Dutch tradition, permanent stones were not placed on gravesites until a full year had passed, allowing time for the ground to settle to that the stone could be placed on stable ground.

Temporary wooden markers featuring painted inscriptions often stood for years until either a permanent headstone could be commissioned from a local stone carver, or if no headstone was created, the wooden markers rotten away after many years; in this case, after more than a century had passed, the university said.

The new marker was created using traditional handwork techniques.

Specialists determined the original was made from old-growth clear white pine.

The new version, made of dense-growth white pine heartwood, was milled, dried for a year then hand-planed and cut to match the original shape. University students helped with that process.

The new marker will be dedicated at 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Bern Cemetery and Historic Graveyard, 3196 Bernville Road, Leesport.

READ MORE: The Belsnickel: Pennsylvania Dutch Yuletide arbiter of naughty or nice
By DAVID SHARP, The Associated Press

LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Authorities carried out a massive search Thursday for a man who they say killed 18 people and wounded 13 at a bowling alley and bar in Maine that sent panicked patrons hiding under tables and behind bowling pins and gripped the state in fear.

Frightened residents stayed locked in their homes Thursday in cities as much as 50 miles away under a shelter-in-place advisory.

The shooting suspect, Robert Card, is considered armed and dangerous, authorities told a news conference. A warrant has been issued charging him with eight counts of murder. That number will rise when the other 10 victims have been identified, said Maine State Police Col. Col. William Ross.

In this image taken from video released by the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office, a gunman enters Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office via AP)AP

This city did not deserve this terrible assault on its citizens, on its peace of mind, on its sense of security, Maine Gov. Janet Mills said.

The attacks Wednesday night stunned a state of 1.3 million people that has one of the countrys lowest homicide rates: 29 in all of 2022.

Col. William Ross of Maine State Police said seven people died from gunshot wounds at the bowling alley shooting. Eight died in the bar shooting, one of whom was outside. Three people transferred to hospitals also died.

A police bulletin identified Card, 40, as a person of interest in the attack in Lewiston that sent panicked bowlers scrambling behind pins, into corners and a back room when shots rang out around 7 p.m. Wednesday. Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the U.S. Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

The first shooting took place at the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley, and the second at Schemengees Bar and Grille about 4 miles away, Moss said. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

A sign signals the public to shelter in place during an active shooter situation on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in Lewiston, Maine. (Derek Davis/Portland Press Herald via AP)AP

After the shooting, police, many armed with rifles, took up positions while the city descended into eerie quiet  punctuated by occasional sirens  as people hunkered down at home. Schools as far away as Kennebunk, more than 50 miles from Lewiston, closed out of caution on Thursday. And schools and public buildings were closed in Portland, the states largest city.

Bates and Bowdoin colleges canceled classes, as did the Gorham and Portland campuses of the University of Southern Maine.

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed. Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Its the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Maine doesnt require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son at Bates College spoke and texted late into the night, and that he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured, the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Interconnector Greece-Bulgaria (IGB) now secures about 50 percent the quantities for Bulgarias internal natural gas consumption, enabling new route for secure natural gas deliveries to countries in the wider region as well, the ICGB, the pipeline operator, told Trend.

Now that weve had the first year of operations at 3 bcm/y with most of the capacity booked, were looking ahead at expanding to 5 bcm/y to enhance the regions energy security and independence, said ICGB Executive Officers George Satlas and Teodora Georgieva.

They noted that ICGB is currently reviewing the market interest in this next step of the projects development.

The IGB gas pipeline connects with the Greek national gas transmission system (DESFA S.A.) and the Trans-Adriatic gas pipeline (TAP AG) in the area of Komotini (Greece), and with the Bulgarian gas transmission system (Bulgartransgaz EAD) in the area of Stara Zagora. The total length of the gas pipeline is 182 km, the diameter of the pipe - 32'' - and a design capacity of up to 3 billion m3/year in the direction Greece - Bulgaria.

The gas pipeline enables the transportation of natural gas from new sources to other countries in the region as well, including Moldova and Ukraine.

Follow the author on X: @Lyaman_Zeyn
By DAVID SHARP, The Associated Press

Update: Maines governor says at least 18 people were killed and 13 were injured in shootings in Lewiston.

LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  A man shot and killed at least 16 people at a restaurant and a bowling alley in Maine and then fled into the night, sparking a massive search by hundreds of officers while frightened residents stayed locked in their homes Thursday under a shelter-in-place advisory.

A police bulletin identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the attack in Lewiston that sent panicked bowlers scrambling behind pins, into corners and a back room when shots rang out around 7 p.m. Wednesday. Card was described as a firearms instructor believed to be in the U.S. Army Reserve and assigned to a training facility in Saco, Maine.

The document, circulated to law enforcement officials, said Card had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base. A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

This photo released by the Lewiston Maine Police Department shows Robert Card, who police have identified as a person of interest in connection to mass shootings in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. ( Lewiston Maine Police Department via AP)AP

Lewiston Police said in an earlier Facebook post that they were dealing with an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

Ten-year-old Zoey Levesque, who was there with her mother, told WMTW-TV she was grazed by a bullet.

Its scary, she said. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

People depart a reunification center early Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at Auburn Middle School in Auburn, Maine, following shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, Maine. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)AP

One bowler, who identified himself only as Brandon, said he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it, he told The Associated Press.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery. He was among a busload of survivors who were driven to a middle school in the neighboring city of Auburn to be reunited with family and friends.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said.

The bowling alley has a small bar and is popular for local bowling leagues and childrens parties.

Wednesday was industry night at Schemengees Bar and Grille, with 25% discounts offered to customers who work in the bar or restaurant industry.

In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason, the business posted online, saying great people in this community were lost.

After the shooting, police, many armed with rifles, took up positions while the city descended into eerie quiet  punctuated by occasional sirens  as people hunkered down at home. Schools as far away as Kennebunk, more than 50 miles from Lewiston, closed out of caution on Thursday. And schools and public buildings were closed in Portland, the states largest city.

Many businesses decided to close Thursday. Central Maine Healthcare said it was closing all physician offices in Lewiston and six surrounding communities. All elective surgery was canceled at Central Maine Medical Center.

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed the shooter walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

In this image taken from video released by the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office, an unidentified gunman points a gun while entering Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Maine State Police ordered residents in the state's second-largest city to shelter in place Wednesday night as the suspect remains at large. (Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office via AP)AP

Two law enforcement officials told the AP that at least 16 people were killed and the toll was expected to rise. However, Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, declined to provide a specific estimate at a news conference, calling it a fluid situation. State police planned to hold a midmorning news conference Thursday.

Its the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

The two law enforcement officials said dozens of people also had been wounded. The officials were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Wednesdays death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

Author Stephen King responded to the shootings Thursday morning in a pair of posts on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon. Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder, he wrote.

Maine doesnt require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

Some recent attempts by gun control advocates to tighten the states gun laws have failed. Proposals to require background checks for private gun sales and create a 72-hour waiting period for gun purchases failed earlier this year. Proposals that focused on school security and banning bump stocks failed in 2019.
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are neck-and-neck in the 2024 race for the White House, while Sen. Bob Casey has an early lead over Republican David McCormick, according to a new poll of Pennsylvania voters.

The latest Franklin & Marshall College poll taken earlier this month shows Biden with support of 44% of respondents and Trump with 42%, and someone else getting 11%. The poll, which surveyed 873 registered voters, has a margin of error of +/- 4.1 percentage points.

In August, F&Ms poll had Biden at 42%, Trump at 40% and someone else at 16%.

Only 30% said Biden is doing an excellent or good job while 19% said fair and 51% said poor, up from 50% in August.

Neither Biden nor Trump are popular with state voters right now. Bidens favorable rating is 40% and Trumps is 41%, and both have a 58% unfavorable rating.

Those results, though, are a little better for Trump compared with August, when his unfavorable rating was 64% and his favorable rating was just 34%.

Berwood Yost, the polls director, said the results show that Bidens messaging for re-election so far is not resonating with Pennsylvania voters.

Hes got some real issues hes got to clean up there, Yost said.

Biden has advantages among voters on character issues, such as understanding the concerns of Americans (42%-41%), sharing voters values on abortion and gay marriage (46%-35%), having the character and judgment needed to be president (42%-32%) and being honest and trustworthy (41%-30%).

However, Trump comes out on top among voters on being prepared to handle the economy (49%-38%) and overseeing the military (47%-39%).

When voters were asked about either man being too old to serve, 41% said Biden, 80, is too old and just 4% said the 77-year-old Trump is. But 43% said both men are too old to be president.

Even though Trump is considered the GOPs likely nominee, there is still a primary race going on. Trumps lead in that race has swelled to 55%-14% over second-place finisher Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Trumps share of the vote in Pennsylvania has grown from 39% in August, while DeSantis saw his share fall from 21%, a trend that has occurred nationally with his campaign. The polls margin of error for the primary is +/- 6.4 percentage points.

Other GOP primary contenders are former United National Ambassador and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley (9%), tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy (5%), former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (4%), South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (3%) and former Vice President Mike Pence (2%).

F&Ms poll found that Casey leads McCormick 46% to 39% with 12% undecided. After months of speculation, McCormick entered the Republican primary late last month and quickly got the endorsement of the state Republican Committee in a bid to dissuade others who might have been harboring intentions to run.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)AP

Casey has a 42% favorable rating with just 30% saying unfavorable, but 29% had no answer on the three-term Democratic senator from Scranton. In August, Casey had a 39% favorable rating, and his unfavorable rating was 30%.

Thirty-six percent of voters said Casey is doing an excellent or good job with 21% saying fair and 22% saying poor.

U.S. Sen. Robert Casey. Joe Hermitt | jhermitt@pennlive.com

Gov. Josh Shapiros popularity has not been dinged by the sexual harassment scandal that has rocked his administration, according to the poll.

Forty-nine percent of voters said Shapiro is doing an excellent (19%) or good (30%) job while 24% said fair and 18% said poor. In F&Ms August poll, 47% said Shapiro was doing an excellent (18%) or good (29%) job, 25% said fair and 15% said poor.

Shapiro has a 57% favorable rating and a 29% unfavorable rating, up from 56% and 26%, respectively, in August.

Gov. Josh Shapiro speaks after the ribbon cutting for a new Amazon center in York County on Oct. 24, 2023. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

Yost said Bidens job rating looks even worse when compared to Shapiros and Caseys. The contrast is startling, he said.

Results for a question about the favorability of the two state Supreme Court candidates caught Yosts attention for the overwhelming number of voters who said they had no opinion about them.

A whopping 76% said they did not know about Democratic state Superior Court Judge Daniel McCaffery while 71% said the same about Republican Montgomery County Judge Carolyn Carluccio.

The winner in the Nov. 7 election will fill a 10-year term on the court that now has a 4-2 Democratic advantage.

When three-quarters of the electorate three weeks before Election Day dont know enough about those two candidates to have an opinion, that should tell you something about our process of electing judges to those kinds of seats, said Yost.

Those results, he said, demonstrate that voters are either not informed or simply not interested in the race for a seat on Pennsylvanias highest court.

So, said Yost, youre going to have a really important decision being made by a small segment of the voters.

Pa. Supreme Court candidates state Superior Court Judge Daniel McCaffery, a Democrat, and Montgomery County Judge Carolyn Carluccio, a Republican. Submitted photos

Additional results showed that Pennsylvanians remain concerned about the states direction and their own financial standing.

Just 35% said the state is headed in the right direction, while 55% said its going in the wrong direction, up from 48% in August. Half of voters said they are worse off financially than a year ago with 39% saying they are about the same.

When asked what they expect a year from now, 35% said they expect to be worse off than now compared to 40% who said about the same and just 15% who said they expect to be better off financially.

The thing that stands out to me is just how much pessimism remains about both the economy and the state and the direction of the state and the state of our politics, Yost said.

Other poll results included:
Maybe it was deer-lirious.

A regular school day was interrupted for a district in Columbia County when a deer found itself in a middle school building instead of its natural habitat, according to reports.

The bizarre entrance occurred around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at Berwick Area Middle School, where the buck made its big entrance by jumping through a window and crash landing into a fifth and sixth-grade classroom, WBRE/WYOU said.

Fortunately, no students were hurt in the incident because the classroom was empty, although a teacher was sitting at a desk about a foot away from the window. Once it happened, the deer stormed through the room before taking off into an empty hallway.

He happened to be seated at his desk, and it came through a window directly behind where he was seated, Berwick Area SD Police Supervisor Greg Daily said to WNEP. Ran down the hallway into an open classroom at the end of the hallway with a small group that was in it with some students and a teacher. When the deer entered that classroom, they evacuated and closed the door and trapped the animal inside there.

At the time, there was an emergency alert letting everyone know that there was an animal in the building, WNEP reported.

In a Facebook post, school officials informed parents that the situation was non-life threatening.

We evacuated all the students in that wing to other areas of the school and cornered off the hallways, officials said to WNEP.

From there, Berwick and Salem Township authorities reported to the school and entered the classroom, aiding officials with the job of putting a blanket over the deers head to bring it outside in the courtyard and into the parking lot.

The deer was then taken by the Pennsylvania Game Commission, both outlets reported.

Fortunately, the deer didnt come through the window five minutes prior because if it had, students wouldve been in the hallways.

That event, from the time it entered the window, to the time it was locked in a classroom was ... a very short time, a minute. We were fortunate of the timing ... if it wouldve been six minutes or so earlier, there wouldve been students and staff in the hallway, Greg Daily, supervisor of Bewrick Area Middle School Police Department, told WBRE/WYOU.
Editors note: This story has been updating to include quotes from a statement published by HACC in August.

A nearly two-hour court hearing ended Wednesday with charges being held against two union representatives who set up a table on HACCs Lancaster campus without permission.

Adam Weber and Lauri (Lebo) Rakoff, both representatives for the Pennsylvania State Educators Association union, appeared before Magisterial District Judge Denise Commins to answer to the accusations they trespassed on HACCs Lancaster campus Aug. 30.
Harrisburg police went on a manhunt Thursday morning after two people broke multiple police vehicle windows at a city facility, officials said.

Police discovered a man and a woman breaking windows of police vehicles parked at Harrisburgs vehicle maintenance facility on Paxton Street around 7 a.m., according to city spokesperson Matt Maisel.

Maisel said the woman was arrested at the scene. The man assaulted an officer and ran from the scene, Maisel said. Police used a drone aircraft to track the man to the area of 18th and Berryhill streets where he was arrested around 9 a.m., Maisel said.

According to social media posts, Melrose School, which is located at 2041 Berryhill St., went into lockdown. But Harrisburg School District spokeswoman Kirsten Keys said Melrose School was not on lockdown this morning.

Its unknown how many police vehicles were damaged and where they were located at the property when they were damaged. The facility has a fenced in parking lot behind it and an open parking lot in front.

This wasnt the first time police vehicles were targeted at the facility. In 2014, police arrested a 19-year-old man after they say he stole a city police cruiser, a Chevrolet Trailblazer and a large Ford van in a burglary. Police said the burglary was among three separate burglaries at the facility.

The initial thefts were discovered after a Harrisburg police officer on patrol spotted a police cruiser in Hall Manor that he knew was out for repairs. All three vehicles initially stolen were later recovered.
NEW YORK (AP)  A man was trapped inside a steel-reinforced concrete jewelry vault in New York City overnight after firefighters had to abandon an attempt to rescue him for safety reasons. Fortunately, the vault was on a timer and opened on its own Wednesday morning, officials said.

The fire department was called to the midtown Manhattan building on Tuesday evening after the man became trapped while trying to access his safe deposit box, Assistant Fire Chief John Sarrocco said. The building at 580 Fifth Avenue is known as the World Diamond Tower and houses several jewelry businesses. Sarrocco did not explain how the man became trapped.

Fire and police department personnel were in communication with the man inside the vault and could watch him on a security camera.

Sarrocco said the fire departments rescue units have tools that would be able to break through the vaults 30-inch (76-centimeter) steel-reinforced concrete walls.

The process was started to breach the wall at the vault, he said in a news conference at the scene.

After about 10 hours, Sarrocco said, the firefighters reached the steel plating and decided to hold off going any further, fearing their rescue attempts could harm the man trapped inside.

The problem with the plating is wed have to use our torches, he said, which would affect the environment for that person inside the vault.

The doors opened as scheduled around 7 a.m. and the man was freed unharmed, Sarrocco said.
CNBC reported last month how porch piracy continues to rise across the United States.

Now a separate report is saying how theres one city in Pennsylvania that has porch pirates more top-of-mind than others.

Vivint  a home security company that seeks to constantly [innovate] our products and processes to provide peace of mind for every homeowner  published this report to its blog, titling it Tackling Porch Pirates: High-Risk Areas and Prevention Strategies.

Over the past year alone, searches like porch pirates caught have surged 1,588%, demonstrating just how big an issue delivery theft has become, the report states.

The data for this study was gleaned from Google Trends search volume as a way to find a porch piracy indices (PPI).

From there, Vivint researchers deduced the prevalence of the theft by calculating the search volume per 100,000 residents in each location. The subreddits of the most popular delivery services were also searched to gain sentiment and porch-piracy related term frequency as well for good measure.

Pittsburgh ranked fourth on the final list with 104 searchers per 100,000 residents, making for a PPI score of 88.7 out of 100. In first with a PPI score of 100 was St. Louis, Mo.

Time of year also played a role in porch piracy search activity, as searches surged by 76% in December, the study reads. This finding suggests that porch pirates are more active during the holidays when online shopping volume tends to skyrocket.

On a state level, Vermont was found to have the most porch piracy issues.
In a ruling that conflicts with the county district attorney, a western Pennsylvania coroner has said a police officer was not justified in shooting and killing a man earlier this year.

Following an inquest, Washington County Coroner Timothy Warco recommended that Mount Pleasant Township officer Tyler Evans be charged with involuntary manslaughter for killing 38-year-old Eduardo Lee Hoover Jr. in April, reported Pittsburgh-area media outlets.

Warcos ruling contradicts an earlier conclusion by Washington County District Attorney Jason Walsh that Evans was justified in shooting Hoover during a confrontation following a vehicle chase.

The coroner said that Evans testimony contradicted footage from his body camera. Evans has previously told investigators that he fired because he thought Hoover would kill him and other officers with his pick-up.

If Walsh does not pursue charges against the officer, Warco said that he would ask the Pennsylvania attorney generals office to intercede, according to WPXI-TV.

Hoover, a resident of Coraopolis, Allegheny County, was killed on April 2 after he led police on a 20-minute-long pursuit from Burgettstown to the city of Washington.

Citing state police, WPXI reported that Hoover slowed down in Washington, allowing officers to get in front and behind his pick-up truck.

KDKA-TV reported that Hoover then backed up and struck a Mount Pleasant patrol car then drove forward into a pole before heading backwards toward the patrol car again.

It was then that shots are heard on the footage. Hoover was struck in the head and neck, said KDKA.

Evans testified that he called out radio traffic before exiting his car, but the video showed that he used his radio while still inside the car, WPXI reported.

Also, Evans said he saw the pick-up hit the pole after he exited his car, but his own body camera footage showed that he was still inside his car when that happened.

Hoovers father, Eduardo Hoover Sr., told the Washington Observer-Reporter that his son was a great family man who had struggled in recent years with alcoholism and mental health issues. The newspaper reported that Hoover Jr.s blood-alcohol level was more than three times the legal limit of 0.08 when he was killed.

After the coroners ruling, Hoover Jr.s aunt, Lori Cook, said she always thought her nephews killing was unjustified.

Its just unreal that 38 years old and hes gone, she told KDKA. Three kids living without their dad is unreal.
U.S. Rep. Scott Perry has a lot of information to share about former President Donald Trumps plan to overturn the 2020 presidential election, said a former White House aide during a radio interview on Wednesday.

Cassidy Hutchinson, an aide to former White House Chief-of-Staff Mark Meadows, appeared on WITFs The Spark show to discuss her new book, Enough.

In June 2022, Hutchinson testified before the House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. As part of her detailed testimony, she said Perry and several other Republican House members sought pardons from Trump, which Perry has denied.

I stand by what I testified to publicly and I would implore him to go testify under oath if he has anything to dispute, Hutchinson told WITF host Scott LaMar.

There were several members of Congress who were interested in pardons, and Scott Perry was one of them, she said.

Perry, a York County Republican, ignored a subpoena from the House Select Committee seeking his testimony.

Jay Ostrich, Perrys spokesman, responded to Hutchinsons comment by telling PennLive on Thursday that Perry is focused on reversing the damage done to our families and job creators by President Bidens failed administration and fighting for the people of south-central Pennsylvania, not the tall tales of a former staffer out hawking a book.

Hutchinson told WITF that it is also important for central Pennsylvanians to know that Scott Perry was central to the planning of January 6 and central to the planning of operating the Justice Department officials to execute a plan that Donald Trump wanted and what Donald Trump wanted was to essentially shred the Constitution in any way that he could to stay in power, and Scott Perry has a lot of information about that and I think that Scott Perry owes it not only to central Pennsylvanians but to Americans to share what he knows.

She said that her story is a cautionary tale and she called Jan. 6 the greatest threat to our democracy in modern American history.

While Hutchinson was included in planning session to overturn the election, she said she did not expect the Jan. 6 attack, describing it to LaMar as almost like a bad car accident that youre watching happen and you want to be able to stop it, but you cant.

Earlier this week, Blake Lynch, a former senior executive at WITF, announced that he was entering the Democratic primary to try and challenge Perry in the 10th Congressional District next year. Lynch is the seventh Democrat to get into the race.
The Editorial Board for PennLive and The Patriot-News will meet with candidates for Commonwealth Court at 3 p.m. today in its final forum leading up to the Nov. 7 general election.

Judge Matt Wolf and Megan Martin will talk about their qualifications and motivations for office in the online meeting that will be streamed to PennLives Facebook page.

PennLive and The Patriot-News have interviewed candidates for the major races in the upcoming general election to help inform voters about the issues in the upcoming election.

In the past two weeks, PennLives Editorial Board has met with candidates for Pennsylvania Supreme Court, Cumberland County commissioner, Superior Court, and with Justin Douglas, Democratic candidate for Dauphin County Commissioner.

All candidates have participated in the online forums, except for incumbent Dauphin County Commissioners George Hartwick (D), Chad Saylor (R) and Mike Pries (R), who declined the invitation to speak to voters.

Superior Court candidate Maria Battista was unable to participate in the recent Editorial Board meeting for the race due to her injury in a traffic accident.

All forums are posted on PennLives Facebook page -- https://www.facebook.com/PennLive.

PennLive invites readers to share their questions and thoughts with civility and respect for all candidates for public office. Questions may be sent to letters@pennlive.com.

Joyce M. Davis is PennLives Outreach & Opinion Editor. Follow her on Facebook and on Twitter @byjoycedavis.

Quality local journalism has never been more important. You deserve the best. Not a subscriber yet? Please consider supporting our work.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan will host the VII International Banking Forum (IBF 2023) in Baku on November 12, Trend reports.

According to the Azerbaijan Banks Association, the event will be held within the framework of cooperation with the international payment system Mastercard with the support of the Azerbaijan Banks Association, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, as well as the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communications.

The forum will discuss such topics as "reliable, safe, and sustainable banking sector", "spreading opportunities: neobanks and financial ecosystems," "new frontiers of self-service", "financial technologies and trends", "evolution of payments: minimum contact", "opportunities for proactive fraud prevention in the digital financial ecosystem" and "remittances in Southeast Europe, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia regions".

According to the association, this two-day event is the most prestigious financial and banking event in the region.

The forum brings together stakeholders who share new ideas and experience, present products they have developed, establish business ties, and discuss the topics of financial technologies, digitalization, and the payment ecosystem.

In addition, the forum unites regulators, banks, fintech companies, associations, international financial organizations, local embassies, academia, and leading representatives of well-known companies.
By Terrence Alladin

Gov. Josh Shapiro recently removed college credits as a requirement for Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) candidates. The recent arrest of Trooper Ronald Davis for abuse of power and falsely committing his mistress to a psychiatric facility is only the latest example of a disturbing trend in policing, which supports the contention that lowering the educational requirements for PSP candidates is a misguided policy.

The role of police officers in society is vital; they are responsible for upholding the law, maintaining public order, and ensuring the safety of citizens. However, the numerous incidents of police abuse across the country, including the shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., and the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minn., are strong indicators that police reform is more important today than ever before. Lowering the educational requirements is a step backward. It is not police reform; it is support for police ineffectiveness.

PSP, like most other police departments across the nation, is having a difficult time attracting qualified candidates to fill the ranks of those retiring or otherwise leaving law enforcement. One of the most popular reasons cited by police officers for leaving is scrutiny from the public and the media. Yet, the scrutiny that law enforcement departments and officers encounter daily is a result of the decades of abusive and criminal conduct of law enforcement officers. Most police officers are honorable and law-abiding, but there are many who are abusive and corrupt. It is not just a few rotten apples, as some police advocates like to promote; corruption, abuse and brutality are pervasive and present in small and large departments alike.

There is consensus among scholars and practitioners that having college-educated police officers can significantly benefit both policing and society. One of the most compelling arguments in favor of college-educated officers is the broader educational foundation they bring to the force. A college education equips individuals with critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and a deeper understanding of human behavior and society. These skills are invaluable when dealing with complex and dynamic situations that officers encounter daily. Further, college-educated officers are more likely to approach their duties with a well-rounded perspective, considering the social, economic, and cultural factors that contribute to criminal behavior. They are better equipped to assess the root causes of crime and develop innovative strategies for prevention and intervention, ultimately leading to more effective policing.

College-educated police officers tend to possess superior communication skills, which are crucial for building trust and rapport within communities. They can de-escalate tense situations, diffuse conflicts, and interact with diverse populations more effectively, thereby reducing the likelihood of violent confrontations. A college education also often includes coursework in psychology, sociology, and ethics, which can help officers better understand human behavior and ethical dilemmas. This knowledge is particularly valuable when making quick decisions in high-pressure situations, where empathy and ethical judgment can mean the difference between life and death.

A college education also fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, which empower police officers to critically evaluate criminal justice policies and practices. College-educated officers are more likely to question and challenge outdated or ineffective policing methods, contributing to the evolution of law enforcement towards more evidence-based and community-centered approaches. These officers are also better equipped to identify and address systemic issues within policing, such as racial bias and excessive use of force. They are more likely to advocate for reforms that prioritize fairness, accountability, and transparency within the criminal justice system.

Policing is not just about responding to criminal behavior, but also proactively addressing the root causes. College-educated police officers are better equipped to collaborate with community members, social service agencies, and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive solutions to complex issues like drug addiction, mental health crises, and homelessness. Their analytical skills and ability to research and implement evidence-based practices make them valuable assets in developing and executing community policing initiatives that build trust, prevent crime, and enhance public safety.

Perhaps one of the most critical aspects of policing is building and maintaining public trust. College-educated police officers tend to be seen as more professional, approachable, and knowledgeable of the communities they serve. This trust is essential for effective law enforcement, as cooperation from the public is vital for solving crimes and preventing criminal activity. When officers are seen as educated and well-informed individuals who understand the complexities of society, they are more likely to be respected and supported by the community. This trust can lead to stronger partnerships between law enforcement and the public, fostering safer neighborhoods and more harmonious relationships.

The benefits of having college-educated police officers are multifaceted. They bring a broader educational foundation, enhanced communication and conflict resolution skills, critical analysis of criminal justice policies, improved problem-solving abilities, and the ability to build public trust. These advantages contribute to more effective policing and, ultimately, a safer and more just society.

While a college education is not the sole determinant of a successful police officer, it undeniably equips individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this challenging profession. As we strive for a more equitable and accountable criminal justice system, investing in the education of our law enforcement officers is a step in the right direction. College-educated police officers can help bridge the gap between law enforcement and the communities they serve, working together to create a society where safety and justice are attainable for all.

**Terrence Alladin is an associate professor of criminal justice at Lebanon Valley College in Annville, PA.
By David Osborne

The United Auto Workers (UAW) strike recently reached Dauphin County, with 145 employees at the Mack Trucks remanufacturing plant in Lower Swatara Township walking off the job on October 9. In doing so, Mack Truck employees allied themselves with 34,000 UAW workers striking around the country over the past month.

However, the impact of UAWs strike is nothing compared to the economic damage caused by public sector unions and their executives in Pennsylvania.

Detroits Big Three lost an estimated $3.45 billion in about a month, with an overall cost to the auto industry of $7.5 billion, potentially devastating small suppliers.

But were talking about an industry that contributes as much as $1 trillion to the American economy, anywhere from 3 to 4.8 percent of GDP. Yet, some economists estimate just a 0.2 percent impact on gross domestic product growth (GDP) over the first month of the strike. New car buyers wont see an immediate effect, and long-term effects will primarily impact supplysomething automakers attempted to mitigate by growing inventories before the strike.

In contrast, those running the countrys largest public sector unionssupposedly representing teachers, municipal and state workers, and first respondersimpose far more significant costs across the country. The Heritage Foundation estimates government unions increase spending by state and local governments by anywhere from $127 billion to $164 billion annually. And, unfortunately, those costs fall directly on taxpayers, strike or no strike.

Take just the four largest government unionsthe National Education Association (NEA); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); and Service Employees International Union (SEIU). NEA, AFT, AFSCME, and SEIU bargain with state and local government agencies in 48 states.

In Pennsylvania alone, newly negotiated collective bargaining agreements for state employees include a 20 percent pay raise, expected to cost taxpayers an additional $3.2 billion over the life of the contract. The new Pennsylvania contracts cover 62,231 state employees, less than one percent of total government union membership.

Pennsylvania has more than 100,000 teachers and 9,000 administratorsnearly all unionized. The union executives in teachers lives demand more local and state funding, pushing Pennsylvanias average statewide funding to $21,263 per student in 202122, up 42.9 percent since 2013. According to NEA, Pennsylvania ranks eleventh in average teacher salary. Yet, NEAthe largest teacher union in the countrystill reports a teacher pay gap here. Pennsylvania is also the highest-paying state for teachers when compared to average salaries for the states other occupations, according to a Business.org study.

And, unfortunately, Pennsylvania has its own strike problem. Pennsylvania leads the country in teacher strikesand its not a close race. A Commonwealth Foundation study counted 131 strikes over 19 years, resulting in 1,383 missed school days for 300,000 students. The recent teacher union strike in Penns Manor School District interrupted the school year and put the district at risk of missing the required 180 days of instruction. Though only eight days, the strike disrupted the lives of students and parents, who scrambled to find last-minute childcare.

Even the looming threat of a public employee strike often gives government unions the leverage to achieve their collective bargaining goals. Limiting the scope of bargaining in the public sector and making strikes illegal could ensure the fair negotiation of contracts that benefit taxpayers and workers.

Ultimately, taxpayers and workers are left paying for government unions mismanagement, especially considering pensions. For the 202223 school year, Pennsylvania schools contributed 35.26 percent of teachers salaries to the Pennsylvania Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS), the state-run pension plan for school employees. More than two-thirds of that amount went to paying off past unfunded pension liabilities. Yet, for years, teacher union executives have played an outsized role at PSERS and pushed Pennsylvania toward the fiscal cliff, with recent PSERS reforms effectively forced on them.

As state and local governments increase taxes to meet the demands of contracts and pensions, the economic impact of entrenched public sector unionism already exceeds that of a temporary UAW strike.

If youre looking for the real power brokers in organized labor, look beyond Dauphin County and Detroit. Public sector unions are calling the shots.

David Osborne is the Senior Fellow of Labor Policy with the Commonwealth Foundation, Pennsylvanias free-market think tank.
As we near the end of October, central Pennsylvania may just be reaching the best color in autumn leaves.

Although the statewide peak has passed, spectacular color still adorns Penns Woods, reads a Facebook post from the states Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Northern oak forests have just begun to peak, offering late season sights in areas where the northern hardwoods are declining.
The head of Pennsylvanias Department of Environmental Protection on Wednesday announced his intention to resign, effective Dec. 9

Until then, Secretary Rich Negrin will be on medical leave. The departments former executive deputy secretary Jessica Shirley will serve as interim acting secretary while the search for a nominee is conducted, said Manuel Bonder, Gov. Josh Shapiros spokesman.

Negrin, the first Latino to head the environmental agency, was confirmed by the Senate on June 27. Among the top issues during his tenure was leading the departments response to the East Palestine train derailment and toxic explosion and the chemical spill in the Delaware River, and spearheading the settlement with Shell Chemicals Appalachia LLC over air pollution at its petrochemical plant in Beaver County .

Prior to taking the Cabinet post, Negrin held senior-level positions at Commonwealth Edison and was the former managing director and deputy mayor of Philadelphia. He also served as a prosecutor in the Philadelphia district attorneys office.

Shirley has held various roles at the DEP: overseeing the influx of federal dollars from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, helping develop executive orders related to PFAS- also known as forever chemicals - and climate change, establishing a greenhouse gas reduction goal, energy conservation and sustainability in commonwealth operations, and environmental justice.

Shirley sent a note to departmental staff announcing the leadership change, along with a note telling them that they were the only reason that I could even consider this role.

She went on: Over my years here, I have made valuable friendships with many people I respect at all levels within the organization. It may sound corny (and you can roll your eyes and make fun of me) but he love and pride that I have for this agency runs deep, the people and the work. I am excited to continue our current initiatives and connect with you about how we can be successful together.

Negrin is the third Cabinet official to depart from the administration since Shapiro took office in January. His nominee to head the Department of Banking and Securities, Sarah Hammer, departed in May, before her confirmation, to become executive director at the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School.

Shapiros Secretary of Legislative Affairs Mike Vereb resigned at the end of September amid allegations of sexual harassment from a former female subordinate in that office. The governors office agreed to a $295,000 settlement to bring an end to that matter.

Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on X at @JanMurphy.
Second Cup operator Renee Kozek (second from left) with baristas (from left) Izabella Austin, Eden Tanhauser and Chloe Ricketts. The new cafe is set to open this morning at 2904 Skaha Lake Road.
Cameron Jay Ortis, a senior intelligence official at the RCMP, leaves the courthouse in Ottawa after being granted bail on October 22, 2019. A former colleague of Ortis, who is accused of disclosing secrets to people of interest to police, has testified in court that Ortis never mentioned taking part in undercover operations.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang
Palestinian firefighters work to estinguish fire in a destroyed building following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Global Affairs Canada says it is providing support to the family of a seventh Canadian killed during ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hamas, while two Canadians remain missing in the region, as aid groups ramp up calls for more humanitarian aid to reach the Gaza Strip. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Abed Khaled
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan's State Tourism Agency has discussed the action plan for 20232024 with the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC), Trend reports.

According to the agency, the meeting of the BSEC working group on tourism was held in the format of a videoconference under the chairmanship of Azerbaijan.

Deputy Secretary General of the OSCE Dimitrios Rallis and Deputy Chief of Staff of the State Tourism Agency, Head of International Relations Department Jalil Malikov, made opening speeches at the meeting.

At the meeting, they also exchanged views on topical issues related to the interests of the participating states in the tourism sector and projects that can be implemented jointly, as well as approved a report document on the results of the meeting.

According to the agency, the next meeting of the working group was decided to be held in December 2023.

Turkiye, Georgia, Armenia, Greece, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Moldova and Ukraine were also represented at the meeting.
A brutal river card late in the night catapulted Ali Abdulzahra into the chip lead after Day 1a of the 888 888poker LIVE Coventry Main Event.

Elliott Panyi had moved all in for 110,000 with ace-king. Abdulzahra called with a dominated ace-queen. Panyi took a bigger lead when he flopped top pair as Abdulzahra was prepared to hand over the massive pot. But the river gave Abdulzahra a straight as he ended the night with 318,000 and leading the 17 players who will return for Day 2 on October 28.

Bhavin Khatri, winner of 888poker LIVE London last year, is in second place with 258,000 after winning a pot when he shoved with just a pair of fours on the river and got called by a pair of threes. Gary Miller, coming off a deep run in the EPT Cyprus Main Event just a few days ago, cracked a pair of aces with a set of sevens on his way to 171,000.

Gary Miller

Teodor Evstratiev (252,000) and Greg Thomson (202,000) round out the top five, while Lukas Dimsa (156,000) and Abdullah Alshanti (152,500) also survived the day.

Day 1a Top 10 Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Ali Abdulzahra United Kingdom 318,000 106 2 Bhavin Khatri United Kingdom 258,000 86 3 Teodor Evstratiev Bulgaria 252,000 84 4 Greg Thomson United Kingdom 202,000 67 5 Gary Miller United Kingdom 171,000 57 6 Lukas Dimsa Lithuania 156,000 52 7 Glynn Owen United Kingdom 156,000 52 8 Abdullah Alshanti United Kingdom 152,500 51 9 Man Li n/a 115,500 39 10 David Morris United Kingdom 114,500 38

A total of 85 entries entered the first of four starting flights into the Main Event. Day 1b begins tomorrow at noon local time, with action lasting an additional 14 40-minute levels. Day 1c is on October 27, followed by a turbo Day 1d flight later that night. The remaining players will then combine for Day 2 at 11 a.m. on Saturday, with late registration remaining open until the start of the day.

Plenty of British poker stars were playing the high roller in the Coventry Building Society Arena today and are likely to jump into tomorrows flight. They include 888poker Ambassador Ian Simpson, along with Carl Shaw, Niall Farrell, Dean Hutchison, and Ludovic Geilich. 888poker Ambassadors Lucia Navarro and Vivian Saliba are also poised to jump into the field during a later flight.

PokerNews will return tomorrow at noon for the second starting flight as another crop of hopefuls take their shot at capturing the 888poker LIVE title.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. The Association of Travel Agencies of Azerbaijan (ATAA) is expanding cooperation with Malaysian tourism organizations, Trend reports.

ATAA Board Chairman Goydaniz Gahramanov met with Mardiana Mohamed Rohani, head of Malaysia's diplomatic mission, and Zohrab Aliyev, Air Arabia's representative in Baku, to discuss increasing the number of mutual tourist visits and expanding cooperation between the countries.

Gahramanov stated at the conference that Malaysia has grown in popularity as a tourism destination in Azerbaijan in recent years. He emphasized the need of building effective projects for both travel firms and tourists in the two nations, and he stated that in the future, combo tours and the production of comprehensive tour packages are planned.

Mardiana Mohamed Rohani, acting head of the Malaysian diplomatic mission, stated at the conference that Azerbaijan has tremendous tourism potential and a rich hospitality culture, and Malaysia places significant priority on the expansion of mutual tourism connections. She stated that Malaysia is willing to share its tourism experience with Azerbaijan.

The discussions included an exchange of ideas on establishing joint cooperation, mutual promotion of tourist destinations and products, organizing promotional information tours, increasing the number of flights by Air Arabia and other airlines, and holding B2B meetings with member companies.
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Now Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana, the hard-right architect of congressional efforts to overthrow the election whose contempt for actual voters is palpable, has began his speakership in the wake of three weeks of inaction by his chamber by giving the House a long weekend off, even as the world and the nation face crises and a government shutdown looms.

Perhaps all of that not-working is exhausting.

House GOP leadership giving the chamber a long weekend. Theyll be done tomorrow and back on Wednesday. pic.twitter.com/HB7jCJSIKK  Jake Sherman (@JakeSherman) October 25, 2023

Imagine if you could fail to do the most basic part of the job you are paid to do, and then, after three weeks when you finally managed to show up without being a reckless drunk endangering the entire country with your irresponsible folly, you finally won a vote to lead your side of a company team. Your first order of business? To give yourself a long weekend.

Now imagine you did that as the world burned around you, quite literally.

Its not a great look to be taking extra time off in the wake of the attack on Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as well as Russias ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine as we lurch into yet another government funding crisis brought on by this same crew.

Its made even more sickening taken in context of Johnsons attacks on everyone he believes arent working hard enough to deserve any government money as he takes government money and flees to a long weekend.

The Louisiana Republican made the case against reparations by claiming it would harm black Americans dignity by depriving them of the meaning injected into their lives by having to achieve equality without government aid.

Might we suggest that the House of Representatives not get government handouts via a paycheck for not working, as it would deprive them of the meaning of real work, but rather they might show up five days a week like many Americans, or better yet to get the real feel for how many live, seven days a week. For meaning.

Johnson is so concerned with the deficit that his party ballooned after giveaways to the most wealthy that he drew up budget resolution suggesting the best way for these guys who are paid from government money and get a healthy pension, healthcare and more to preserve American freedom is to just take $2 trillion from Medicare (why should you have healthcare just because they do?), $3 trillion in cuts to Medicaid, CHIP, and Obamacare, and of course for you lazy people who have paid into Social Security your entire lives, he proposed $750 billion in cuts to your safety net.

Also, you may not take a long weekend.

Who better to guide the moral compass of the U.S. budget than the man who believes he was anointed by God to serve as Speaker, as God is the one who raises up those in authority. There has been no explanation for Gods delay in asserting His will, but the press is not here to get questions answered. We are to shut up! as House Republicans yelled when Johnson was questioned about his attempts to steal the votes of the majority of Americans.

Shut up, fourth estate.

House Republicans will not be questioned about their seething contempt for the American voter. House Republicans will dictate to, not be questioned, thank you very much. Any questions for how this works should be directed at Republican Senator Mitch McConnell, who has been deftly manipulating the press for decades, albeit with more finesse and less overt hostility. McConnell just assumes the right to direct the narrative. House Republicans are too boisterous a bunch of thugs, alleged criminals, con artists and democracy thieves to carry themselves with such tempered class as the Senates architect of democracys demise. It used to be that one must put a pretty face on theft of rights and trampling of norms, but now one just tells the press to shut up and claims the authority of none other than God herself.

Johnsons moral character is so Trump-tinged that he cheerily promoted the conspiracy theory about Hugo Chavez and Dominion voting systems in mid November of 2020. When you couple this with his firm belief in himself as The Chosen, you can see the republic is in for a carnival ride of true believers the likes of which it hasnt seen for years.

Upon his eventual return to the toil of conspiracy theories and theft of security and votes from The People, Mr. Johnson can be relied upon to return his gaze to the steely dealings of his obsession with sodomy and women becoming broodmares to produce workers, when he is not using the entire U.S. House to attack President Biden for the benefit of the weakened, lost Mr. Trump who continues to threaten and troll like an angry, powerless teenager, even as his own lawyers turn on him to save themselves.

On the 22nd day without a leader, the Republican-led House of Representatives managed to finally elect the worst person for the job, also known as the best representative of the Republican Party agenda. It only took four other nominees to get there after former Speaker Kevin McCarthy was kicked to the curb after less than a year, for which he had endured the humiliation of 15 rounds of voting.

This is the longest time Congress has flailed about since 1962, when they took 55 days to elect a speaker. But it cant be said that Republicans didnt work hard for this level of dysfunction, which appears to be their largest policy goal: Paralyze the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense, and thereby give our enemies all that they need to overtake the U.S. globally.

While Mr. Johnson claimed in 2004 that same-sex marriage would doom the republic and gay sex could even destroy the entire democratic system, it seems he didnt see himself and his boorish band of Trumpists coming. No one has been a bigger threat to the republic and the entire democratic system than Mr. Johnson and his master, Donald Trump, both of whom tried to steal the right to have votes counted from a majority of the country.

How is this man speaker, you ask? Dear Reader, this is the best they had to offer.
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Representative Jared Golden of Maine who represents Lewiston asked for forgiveness while giving remarks that are what we deserve to hear from each and every lawmaker who has opposed the banning of deadly weapons of war. He said, The time has come for me to take responsibility for this failure, which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles.

Golden said: I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war like the assault rifle he used to carry out this crime. The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure. Which is why I now call on the United States Congress to ban assault rifles. To the people of Lewiston, my constituents throughout the second district, to the families who lost loved ones, and to those who have been harmed, I ask for forgiveness and support as I seek to prevent these terrible shootings.

Golden: I have opposed efforts to ban deadly weapons of war like the assault rifle he used to carry out this crime. The time has now come for me to take responsibility for this failure. Which is why I now call on the United States congress to ban assault rifles pic.twitter.com/0k60XJQoaB  Acyn (@Acyn) October 26, 2023

While its more than fair to ask why it only hit home for Golden when it happened in his hometown where he was born and which he represents. His statement also represents the closest personal responsibility we have heard from any lawmaker.

To have honor and integrity, a person must own up to their mistakes and their wrongs. When your mistakes cost 18 people their lives, as Goldens have, that burden is heavy.

Goldens district was won by Trump in 2020, and this might have some bearing on why he sounds as if he doesnt have long left in Congress after calling for an assault rifle ban. If thats the case, his courage in putting life ahead of his career should be emulated.

Where are the other blood-soaked NRA-bought lawmakers with their apologies? Where are the statements of culpability and recognition that morally, they have failed every child and adult in this country and those visiting it, too?

Goldens regret is the sound of humanity, and while it is way too late, it is also much needed and therefore, welcomed. Lawmakers have the power to stop these mass shootings. Yes, people can argue that they cant stop them altogether, but thats become a fallacious argument meant to avoid all accountability. So to put it another way: If they could stop even one mass shooting by acting on behalf of human life instead of corporate dollars, that would be worth it.

The time to act is now. We do not need to live like this.
I saw Beaus photo on Instagram, another pit bull in a sea of pitties looking for love. Looking back, I see there was nothing remarkable about his photo, but I felt a deep pull to rescue him. Ive always been an adoption advocate yet had never had a pitbull until moving to South Carolina and Read moreFOTAS: Former shelter dog Beau gives comfort as therapy dog
From the District of Columbia to Aiken County, Tracey Turner  the Weeping Willows developer who plans to redevelop the old Aiken County Hospital  has faced a number of lawsuits alleging he's left people waiting for months or years for repayment. Read morePattern of unpaid debts follows old Aiken County Hospital developer from D.C.
What a mess, Riley Draper thought, as he and two other workers climbed a metal platform one morning in November 2021. They were inside the Innovative Fibers factory near Spartanburg, a plant that makes textile fibers from recycled plastic. The company had hired Riley, 25, and his crew to clean plastic pellets and dust, including an area around an oven.

There was lots of dust, more than Riley expected. Dust and pellets blanketed the equipment and the rafters above like gray snow. On jobs like this, you start from the top and work your way down, which is why they began shoveling dust off the roof rafters.

Then a flash, just below, by the oven. And he was inside a fire. Bright orange all around, mixing with pain and screams  his screams, his colleagues screams. Then another flash, this one inside his mind, an image or words or a mix of both: Do whatever it takes to get out. For Bentley.

Bentley, his 3-year-old son.

The stairway. Too far, flames in the way. He jumped over the railing, a drop of about 17 feet. He landed on his feet, or one of his co-workers, hes not sure. He leaped over another railing, another 8-foot fall. Somehow his legs were OK. He stumbled toward the door. He walked outside into the cool November air. A camera captured him hobbling, his hands held up zombie-like, most of his clothes burned away. His two colleagues also staggered out. They all moved slowly toward a white van that happened to drive up.

Through the pain, a new thought flashed through Riley's mind: Call Savanna, his fiancee. But his phone was gone, snatched when his pants legs burned off. He couldnt move his hands. The few pieces of clothes left on him stung. A co-worker who hadnt been in the building tried to cut off the pieces. Riley asked her to call Savanna.

He didnt know it at the time, but more than two-thirds of his body had been badly burned, often a death sentence. He had no idea how challenging it would be to recover, the eye-popping $30 million medical bills that would follow, the psychological scars that run just as deep as the physical ones.

He wouldnt think about all this for a while, after he finally woke up months later and discovered something even more enduring than burns.

For now, all he could do was tell Savanna hed been burned in an accident. His voice was surprisingly calm.

'I lost my phone'

Thats what Savanna thought when she got that call. Rileys same steady voice. Could the burns be that bad if he can talk? Maybe it was just his arm? They hung up.

Minutes later, she got another call. From an emergency official: A helicopter was flying Riley to the burn center in Augusta. His two other colleagues would be flown there, too.

Augusta?



They had met in 2017 in Colorado, where Riley grew up. He was from Wellington, a town about an hour north of Denver. She was from Fort Collins, 12 miles south. A mutual friend set up a bowling date. He was immediately smitten, but too nervous to ask outright for her phone number.

So, I told her, I lost my phone, would you call it? And then it started ringing in my pocket.

Busted. And Savanna was completely OK with his ploy. He was goofy and funny and very good-looking.

About a month later, he invited her to go to an ice fishing tournament on Colorados Lake Granby. It was mid-winter, and the wind chill hit 30-below.

You had to keep moving or you would freeze, he said. After that, we were together pretty much nonstop.

Loyalty and persistence were two traits he admired in others and cultivated in himself; if a woman goes ice fishing with you in sub-zero weather, you know shes a keeper.

Time passed, and they started a family. Bentley was born and grew to be an active little boy, always moving, goofy like his dad. Riley worked in the oil fields out of high school, then drove a commercial truck. They were good jobs, but the cost of living in Colorado was high. In 2021, they moved to a house near Columbus, N.C., just over the South Carolina border. Savannas family lived in the area, and they thought the Upstate would be more affordable.

He found a job as a hazardous materials technician with Advanced Environmental Options, a company in Spartanburg that specialized in industrial cleanups and emergency responses. Good people to work with; he liked solving problems, working with his hands.

He and Savanna hadnt married, but in their minds they were already. We were so busy building a family, she said.

On Nov. 1, 2021, Savanna got ready for a job interview. Riley dropped off Bentley at daycare and turned his mind to the cleanup job ahead. A normal morning.

In a coma

Paramedics and firefighters converged on the Innovative Fibers site. So much of Riley's flesh and muscles had burned that paramedics drilled into his bone marrow to inject ketamine and knock him out. Even while sedated, he kept mumbling Bentleys name, paramedics later told him.

From Spartanburg, the helicopter flew 100 miles to Augusta, home of the Joseph M. Still Burn Center at Doctors Hospital, which had a long history of handling difficult burns.

Bounthavy Homsombath, hospital burn medical director, quickly assessed his new patient. In his mind, anyone who has burns over 40 percent of his or her body is a major case. Draper had third- and fourth-degree burns over 65 percent of his body.

The skin is the bodys shell, its largest organ, its shield against infections, regulator of fluids and body temperature. Homsombath and the staff began cutting away dead skin. They sealed Riley's eyes shut for the time being because burns can pull the lids permanently open. They wrapped him in bandages and sedated him even more.

Weeks passed as they tried to rebuild his shell. They grafted what skin he had left, stretched it and then re-stitched it back onto his body. They used skin substitutes made out of Icelandic codfish. They sent skin samples to a company in Boston that grows new cells. They did operations to repair his limbs.

All the time, Homsombath noted how the Draper family rallied around Riley, how they came together and the way theyve always been together.

Homsombath knew this was important now, and if Riley was to recover. The patients who do well are the ones with families who are always here, always asking questions, asking for answers.

'We weren't going anywhere'

Savanna arrived in Augusta five hours after the explosion, her mother at the wheel. Im here babe, she told him, though he was deeply sedated. His parents and sister from Colorado arrived just after midnight. Bandages covered his body.

A few days later, nurses and doctors removed the bandages for the first time. Riley's face was brown and featureless. Savanna fell to her knees in shock. Put it together, she told herself. For Riley and Bentley.

So she kept talking to him, day after day, week after week, kept telling him what Bentley had done that day.

"I had already planned to spend the rest of my life with him, and he was the father of our child," she said. "So if I could have been there 24 hours a day, I would have. Im just one of those people who doesnt give up.

His mother, Raquel, rented an apartment in Augusta.

He needed to know that it was OK, his mother said. Every single day, I told him that: that he was safe, that he was in excellent hands and that we werent going anywhere.

Months passed, Christmas, Valentines Day. He woke up occasionally but wasnt really conscious. Savanna sometimes worried that he might not ever truly wake up. But you have to push back those negative thoughts, stay positive, no matter what.

Then one day, about four months after the explosion, he suddenly said, Hey.

He said it super loud, Savanna said. And then, Hey, how are you? It startled the nurse, and I started crying, because when I heard his voice, it was the best thing ever. He kept telling me that he loved me and asking for Bentley. I told him, Tell me you love me because I missed that. I just missed hearing his voice. I said, Dont stop talking, and he kept saying, I remember what happened. I remember what happened. 



When he saw himself in the mirror, he had to look away. His skin was reddish and raw. His nose and ears looked as if they'd melted away. The first time Bentley saw him, the child said, I dont want daddy to look like that. Burns affected his bones, muscles and tendons; his fingers were fused into clenched fists. Flames burned off his tattoos: a wrestling logo on his back, a Chevy logo on his back and a clock on his calf with the words: "Each day is a gift, not a given right."

Before, he was always doing something outdoors: camping, boating, four-wheeling. He took pride in his work ethic and ability to fix things. Now, he couldnt even pick up his son. Who was he?

He grew more depressed. Until one day Bentley came up to him.

Hey, can you just come play? Im tired of you sitting.

Another flash: He was still Bentleys father.

All it took was that one time, Riley said. He helped me heal.

Now, he would show his son how you dont give up.

Loyalty

That vow is tested every day.

Last December, he was ready to get some takeout on his own. A big day. As he was leaving, Bentley asked, Daddy where are you going?

To get some food, Riley answered. Bentley said they needed to go together.

"Why is that, Bentley?" Riley asked.

The last time you left alone, you didnt come home," Bentley said.

Since the explosion, Riley has had more than 50 operations. Surgeons reworked tissues to open his left hand, his dominant one, but the fingers on his right hand remain bent. When he plays with Bentley, who likes to run fast, Riley can't move fast enough because his scarred tissues won't let him. He has more surgeries scheduled this fall.

A severe work injury can also generate a staggering amount of medical bills and litigation. Riley's medical bills are "approaching $30 million," said Patrick Allan, his attorney in Spartanburg. Because the injury happened at work, those bills are covered by insurers under South Carolina Workers' Compensation laws, Allan said.

Even so, American Interstate Insurance, the insurer responsible for paying the bills, sued Doctors Hospital, calling the charges "exorbitant" and "unreasonable." The lawsuit was settled for an undisclosed sum six months later.

Riley said he has trouble fathoming these costs but is grateful for Workers' Compensation and the care he received, which he described as a 10 out of 10."

As for Innovative Fibers, investigators with the state Occupational Safety and Health Administration found that the company knew the dust could explode. OSHA fined the plants parent company, Stein Fibers, $15,936. Officials with Stein did not respond to requests for comment.

Though his medical bills are covered, he has yet to qualify for federal disability benefits, a process that can take a year or longer because of a severe backlog. Savanna has had to delay working to take care of him.

Depending on others, thats the hardest part, he said.

He said he hasn't spoken at length with his two other colleagues, one of whom suffered burns as badly as his. But he knows from his own experience how difficult it is to manage the physical and psychological scars.

But talking about the fire and its aftermath helped him.

Bottling it up just made it worse," he said.

Most of all, he learned a lesson in the power of loyalty, from his family and especially Savanna.

She was 23 when it happened, he said. How many 23-year-olds would stay with somebody through an injury like that in todays day and age? Shes been there every day, doesnt care what I look like.

They had another child, a symbol of their hope, Lily, now 6 months old.

Last year, they gathered at Savanna's family's house north of Spartanburg. Bentley ran up to Savanna. "Daddy needs you," he said.

Savanna went to see what Riley needed and found Bentley standing next to him with a box. Grinning, Bentley handed it to her. Inside was an engagement ring. With everyone watching, Riley proposed.

Flames can burn fast and destroy in an instant; their love endured. In a flash, she said yes.

Tony Bartelme can be reached at tbartelme@postandcourier.com and 843-790-0805.

Editors note: Family members set up a Gofundme page to help the Drapers with living expenses and to post updates about his recovery. The father of another victim, Parker Wideman, also set up a Gofundme page. Residents in Saluda welcomed him home in May 2022.
The Netflix movie "The Pale Blue Eye" and series "The Fall of the House of Usher" are reminding streamers of Edgar Allan Poe's influence on modern society almost 200 years after his death.

The short story writer, poet, essayist and editor most known for his fictional horror-laced macabre tales from "The Raven" to "The Masque of the Red Death" to "The Tell-Tale Heart" is a particularly apt figure to surface in October, right around Halloween.

The spooky story weaver was far more than just the hollowed and haunted solitary specter that history often paints him, however. He lived an often-tragic and lovelorn life, but he was also known to be a highly intelligent and well-educated literary professional who was socially adept.

He also is connected to Charleston, not only through his literary works like "The Gold-Bug" and "The Balloon-Hoax," but the time he spent living on Sullivan's Island.

Sullivan's specter

Poe's Tavern and the Edgar Allan Poe Library on Sullivan's Island are standing relics that have latched onto Poe's time spent in the Lowcountry. At the latter, a Sullivan's-born-and-raised librarian is now working at the very library she used to frequent in childhood.

Delores Schweitzer, manager of the Poe branch, declares with admiration, "I love this building. It's sufficiently spooky," noting the creaky iron doors that lend the imagination ample places to hole up bodies.

"Poe would like it," she added.

Sitting under the fluorescent beams emanating from a low ceiling of the renovated Battery Gadsden Spanish-American gun bunker, where the Edgar Allan Poe Library was opened in 1977, Schweitzer placed a laminated document on a round wooden table.

It was a copy of Poe's Army enlistment, though one major detail is missing: his last name. That's because Poe signed up under a different name to escape the money he owed from gambling debts totaling $2,500 at the time and what could have been a trip to debtor's prison, said Schweitzer.
Ashley Ridge came closer than it ever has to playing for a state volleyball championship, but its season ended in the Lower State finals. Read moreSwamp Foxes fall in Lower State finals
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Azerbaijan is represented at the tourism exhibition in Japan, Trend reports.

The State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan said the tourism opportunities of Azerbaijan are presented at the Tourism Expo Japan 2023 exhibition, held from October 26 through October 29, 2023 in Osaka.

The participants of the exhibition get acquainted with the possibilities of cultural, natural, health, business tourism in Azerbaijan, as well as the traditions of winemaking and gastronomy.

The agency noted that on the first day of the exhibition, meetings were organized with representatives of travel companies Gerso Travel, Asia Travel and ENC Tours, the Osaka Tourism Bureau, the Japan Association of Travel Agents, where prospects for cooperation were discussed.

In addition, the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Japan, Gursel Ismayilzada, visited the national stand and got acquainted with the work of the exhibition.

In general, 1275 companies from 70 countries of the world are represented at the exhibition, which is considered one of the main tourist sites of the Asian region.

A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of tourism was signed between the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Japanese Tourism Agency in 2022. The memorandum provides for the exchange of experience and information in the field of promotion of tourism products, mutual promotion and strengthening of ties between experts in the field of tourism, support for the mutual participation of travel agencies and travel service providers in international tourism exhibitions and other events.
Murals are a beautiful addition to any town. Many years ago, murals graced the side of several businesses, but now are just a memory, being painted over or simply vanishing over time. A new one in Kingstree has earned the Williamsburg HomeTown Image Award. Read moreMural gains Image Award for the Town of Kingstree
There are two kinds of community news editors in the world: those who do about 90 percent of their work within the four walls of an office and those who pound the pavement. Read moreWhy most of us are epic fails at public speaking
Three state representatives spoke against "mayoral overstep" days after Charleston-area mayors expressed discontent with the school board, contending the county's elected board members have the right to conduct business as they see fit.

State Reps. Jordan Pace, Kathy Landing and Matt Leber  all Republicans  made their remarks Oct. 26 outside the Charleston County School District headquarters on Calhoun Street. They were joined by some community members who spoke of feeling unsafe at school board meetings.

"The narrative is being overwhelmed from the leftist activists and these other politicians that think they can jump into the school board, demand how it should be ran," said Leber, R-Johns Island.

The 50-person gathering was in response to an Oct. 24 press conference at which three Charleston-area mayors pleaded for the school board to put politics aside and focus on student education.

Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg, Mount Pleasant Mayor Will Haynie and North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey presented three demands to the board: restore transparency, focus on setting policy and hiring leaders, and require a supermajority (two-thirds) vote on critical matters.

Tecklenburg added the board's five-member majority is endorsed by Moms For Liberty, a conservative parents' rights group that advocates against issues like LGBTQ rights and critical race theory.

The mayors said they would meet with state legislators about deconsolidating the school district if the dysfunction persisted. State Rep. Joe Bustos, R-Mount Pleasant, who serves as chairman of the local legislative delegation, also participated in the mayors' press conference.
A Berkeley County Sheriff's deputy is facing a misdemeanor charge for a 2022 arrest during which authorities say he assaulted an uncooperative suspect after the man was electronically shocked and handcuffed.

Randal Morris Timmons used his government-issued Taser on the man when he refused to follow orders during a traffic stop Jan. 18, 2022, according to Timmons' arrest warrant affidavit.

The man fell to the ground after the Taser struck him in the chest. Timmons then kicked the man twice in the back, the warrant continued. After the man was handcuffed, Timmons allegedly pulled him up by the hair.

Timmons was charged with third-degree assault and battery, which carries a punishment of up to 30 days in jail and a fine up to $500, or both. The 61-year-old was booked into the Berkeley County jail on Oct. 20, according to the State Law Enforcement Division.

It is unclear what happened to the man Timmons is accused of assaulting during the arrest nearly two years ago. SLED did not identify the victim, and the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office did not respond to questions about the original arrest.

The sheriff's office allowed Timmons to resign about two weeks after the incident while it investigated "behavior that was concerning," according to Cpl. Carli Drayton, spokeswoman for the department.

Later, the department found that Timmons had "used excessive force" during an arrest, then lied about it in the incident report and again to a supervisor when confronted later, according to his separation paperwork provided by the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy.

The sheriff's office said it asked the academy, which trains and certifies all law enforcement officers in the state, to terminate Timmons' certification, and SLED to investigate possible criminal charges against him.

Timmons hopped from department to department since starting his law enforcement career in the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office as a reserve officer in November 2000. In 2002, he was promoted to a full-time officer and stayed in the position less than five years.
As darkness fell over Charleston's Brittlebank Park, several dozen people gathered for a vigil focused on the thousands of casualties in Gaza amid the latest Israeli-Palestinian war.

Attending the Oct. 25 event was a local cross-section of faiths and identities  Jewish, Muslim, White, Black, Palestinian-American and others. They observed a Jewish prayer of mourning, gave speeches criticizing Israel and joined an imam in a prayer for peace. Speakers asked attendees to write local and national leaders to push for an immediate ceasefire, to allow the free flow of humanitarian aid and medical supplies and for the freedom of Palestinians, chanting "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free."

Reema, a Palestinian American, said the vigil was a space for people to process and learn through the difficult feelings coming from grisly images and depictions of a war in which civilians have borne the brunt of the violence. The Post and Courier agreed not to use her full name after she expressed concerns for her safety and well-being.

"I want people to know that this was peaceful. This is communities coming together in order to speak about what's going on in Palestine and what has been going on the last 75 years," she said.

In 1947, the United Nations adopted a plan to divide the British Mandate of Palestine into Arab and Jewish states. Israel declared its independence as a nation in 1948, sparking the first Arab-Israeli war, according to the Council on Foreign Relations. When that conflict ended in 1949, some 750,000 Palestinians were displaced in what they refer to as the Nakba, Arabic for catastrophe, and the territory was divided into the state of Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza Strip.

Israel has occupied the Gaza Strip, West Bank and East Jerusalem since 1967, when it captured the Palestinian territory in the Six-Day War. Conditions in Gaza  where some 1.7 million Palestinian refugees live  have deteriorated since 2007, when Israel imposed a blockade after Hamas seized power in Gaza. Tensions, conflict and deadly attacks have continued over the 16 years since.
MONCKS CORNER  A man who had served nearly eight years of a 30-year prison sentence before the state Supreme Court vacated his voluntary manslaughter conviction walked out of a courtroom Oct. 25 as a free man after pleading guilty to the same crime.

Shaquille Washington, 27, entered into a plea deal with prosecutors in which he agreed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter and take legal responsibility for the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Herman Trey Manigault. Manigault was killed in 2013 outside a nightclub in the rural Cainhoy community. In exchange, the defendant received a nine-year prison sentence  or the equivalent of time served  to the dismay of the victim's family, who packed into a cramped Berkeley County courtroom, separated by two rows from Washington's family members.

Washington has been free on bond since 2020. The South Carolina Supreme Court vacated his voluntary manslaughter conviction, finding that the trial judge erred in 2015 in instructing the jury on the legal theory of accomplice liability  what is also referred to as "the hand of one is the hand of all." The instruction was inappropriate because jurors were never presented with evidence that someone else was the shooter, according to the court. It prejudiced the defendant, who was acquitted of murder but found guilty of voluntary manslaughter.

Washington, who was 17 years old at the time of the crime, was sentenced to 30 years in prison. His attorney, Jack Swerling, appealed all the way to the Supreme Court, which vacated the conviction and sent the case back to the circuit court for a retrial.

Instead of retrying a 10-year-old crime that was tried eight years ago, the 9th Circuit Solicitor's Office extended a plea offer to Washington, explained Assistant Solicitor Julie Rochester, who appeared at the Oct. 25 hearing. The prosecutor said that the deal, which required the defendant to plead guilty to a class A felony, was designed to bring "measured justice and closure for the family."
COLUMBIA  One of South Carolina's top public school advocacy organizations is suing the state over its recently implemented school voucher program, arguing it violates the constitutional prohibition on public dollars funding private schools.

The lawsuit, filed Oct. 26 by the South Carolina Education Association, argues the Republican-backed Education Scholarship Trust Fund voucher program will deprive the state's already underperforming public school system of millions of dollars in needed funding while empowering private institutions that lack the accountability measures required of state schools.

Our (state) constitution reflects a binding commitment that the resources of our state should be used to fully fund our public schools, which serve all students," Sherry East, president of the education association and also a high school science teacher from Rock Hill, said in a statement announcing the lawsuit.

"Instead of private school vouchers, we should invest in our public schools by reducing class size, addressing the teacher shortage crisis and increasing parental involvement," she added. The voucher program "is a clear violation of our state constitution. It cannot go unchallenged.

State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver denounced the lawsuit, calling it unsurprising, but disappointing.

"Opponents of expanding opportunity couldnt win at the ballot box, lost in the Legislature, and now ask the courts to overrule the will of the people," she told the Post and Courier in an emailed statement.

The plaintiffs are represented by lawyers from the National Education Association, the Education Law Center, the South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP, and the South Carolina firms Nickles Law Firm, and Tinkler Law Firm.

The group has asked the state Supreme Court to directly settle the constitutionality.

Signed into law by Gov. Henry McMaster in May after roughly two decades of battles in the S.C. General Assembly, the school voucher program provides eligible parents with a $6,000 annual grant to enroll their children in a private institution of their choice.
It was a day Frank Larkin will never forget. In April 2017, his son Ryan F. Larkin, a Navy SEAL who was struggling following his return to civilian life, committed suicide in the basement of the familys home. Read moreCommentary: Let's take care of those who served and protected us
Patch Whisky has been all around the United States and Canada painting murals in different cities. The artist and Princeton, West Virginia, native is now using the city of Goose Creek as his muse and is in charge of painting the citys newest mural at 225 Red Bank Road. Read moreArtist leaves mark on mural
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 26. President of France Emmanuel Macron will make an official visit to Kazakhstan, Trend reports.

As the press service of the President of Kazakhstan said, the visit will take place on November 1 at the invitation of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

"During the visit, the leaders of the two countries will hold negotiations on strengthening trade, economic, investment and energy cooperation, as well as discuss issues on the international and regional agenda," said the statement.
Francis Marion University's new special education bachelor's degree in autism studies will help those with autism spectrum disorder in two ways. It will put teachers who know how to work with autistic children in classrooms, and it will provide counselors to treatment centers across the stat Read morePee Dee Editorial: Francis Marion University degree a plus for autism education, counseling in South Carolina
CHESTERFIELD  Standing with a photo of her daughter, Soraya Allen collected herself in front of a small crowd on the lawn of the Chesterfield County Courthouse. She began to tell her story.

Candace, Allens daughter, thought she was in love with the young man who attended church with the family. She brushed aside her parents warnings that he was trouble.

Twenty-three years ago, the young man killed Candace in his backyard, burning her body, Allen said. She was 15.

Every day is a struggle for me, Allen said at a candlelight vigil for victims of domestic violence. Every day I miss my baby.

Domestic violence is a decades-long problem in South Carolina. The state has regularly landed among the top 10 states with the highest rates of women killed by men.

During October, Domestic Violence Awareness month, advocates from the Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault have blanketed the region, appearing at city council meetings and schools, holding information sessions on elder abuse and teen dating, always leaving purple ribbons in their wake.

Their message has been clear: theres more work to do.

We each can do that as we collectively work together as advocates and as a community to help, (so) that one day we can end this terrible crime, that we will no longer see domestic violence, that we don't have to remember anyone's name, said Stacey Short, a Pee Dee Coalition advocate, after Allen spoke.

Local circumstances

According to the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, 42 percent of women and 29 percent of men in the state experience intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner sexual violence and/or intimate partner stalking in their lifetimes.
Britains BBC has taken flak for refusing to call Hamass fighters terrorists. The networks management has stood fast on this point, arguing that to stigmatize Hamas as terrorists would constitute taking sides in the conflict, and the BBC is staunchly neutral.

But that mildly pro-Hamas stance is nowhere near enough for many of the BBCs employees. The Times of London offers a frightening glimpse into the mentality of many young journalists. And, while these are Brits, the situation is no better in the U.S.:

The BBC has been accused by its journalists of being too lenient on Israel and dehumanising Palestinian civilians, allegedly leaving staff crying in lavatories and taking time off work.

Journalists crying in lavatories and unable to show up for work because they are so distressed over the negative image suffered by those who commit mass murder, gang rape and kidnapping.

Concerns were raised with senior editorial figures in a meeting this week. An email setting out fears that the BBC was treating Israeli lives as more worthy than Palestinian lives was sent to Tim Davie, the director-general.

That raises a good question: is the life of a murder victim more worthy than the life of the murderer who decapitates babies or burns them alive? What do you think?

In the email to Davie, which was widely shared with BBC News international staff, he said: Words like massacre, slaughter and atrocities are being used prominently in reference to actions by Hamas, but hardly, if at all, in reference to actions by Israel. Does this not raise the question of the possible complicity of the BBC in incitement, dehumanisation and war propaganda?

A sane person would say that words like massacre, slaughter and atrocities are being used because they accurately describe what the Gazans have done. If you wanted to accurately describe what the Israelis have done, you might use terms like righteous retribution. But of course the BBC isnt doing that.

I think that as a group, journalists must have less moral sense than the members of any other occupation.
Showing up for work early this morning, IDF Lt. Colonel Jonathan Conricus returns with a 10-minute update on the war. He discusses yesterdays attacks on Israel. He briefly displays terrorist video. The point if not hard to understand: This is the evil that we face.Its very simple. Our communities cannot live with this threat near them. He also addresses the lamentations emanating from Gaza on behalf of Hamas and the Hamas way of war on the truth.

 LIVE:

Join IDF Spokesperson LTC Jonathan Conricus (@JConricus) to discuss fuel & fake info being spread by Hamas. https://t.co/M8q2BVxKhU  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Conricus cites the IDF YouTube page a few times in this update. The YouTube page is located here. I am not entirely sure, but I think the video that he plays briefly is posted here and runs about 10 minutes.
As noted earlier in the week, I was on campus at Berkeley yesterday to host a guest lecture at the law school from Hadley Arkes about his latest book Mere Natural Law (podcast forthcoming), but yesterday happened to coincide with the National Walkout in favor of Hamas called for on college campuses nationwide.

I decided to take in some of the scene down at Sproul Plaza, the main site for campus protest at Berkeley ever since the Free Speech Movement was born at that location back in 1964.

First some background before sharing some video and observations.

A professor of Asian studies offered extra credit for students in a class to attend the protest:

This drew a direct rebuke from the administration to all faculty and staff:

Ill add that unlike Penn and other elite universities, a clear and unequivocal faculty statement against campus pro-Hamas protests has gained nearly 400 faculty signatures so farover 10 percent of the faculty. Some excerpts:

Open Letter on Recent Events in Israel and Gaza to the UC-Berkeley Community On the morning of October 7, Hamas terrorists launched a brutal and vicious attack, entering Israel from Gaza. In villages and towns near the Israel/Gaza border, they murdered by gun, knife, and fire more than 1,000 unarmed civilians, including babies, children, women, the elderly, and entire families, in their homes and on the street. They went door-to-door annihilating whole families. They killed children in front of their parents and siblings. They abused women, and paraded their mistreated naked bodies. They massacred hundreds of young people attending a nature party in the desert. And they took captive over 150 children, infants, elderly in wheelchairs, women and men, to be used as human shields, and worse. . . While we individually have many different views about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, we emphatically agree with President Bidens characterization of this murderous attack  the purposeful annihilation, rape, kidnapping, and execution of civilians  as a violation of every code of human morality. Some in our campus community have described these massacres perpetrated by Hamas as resistance to be celebrated in a freedom struggle. This is repugnant and indefensible. For many of us, as we went on social media on Sunday night and Monday morning, it was shocking to realize that literally while Hamas terrorists were going house-to-house seeking to murder as many Jews as they could, some pro-Palestinian organizations on our own campus were gathering petition signatures for statements that celebrated these Hamas terrorists as freedom fighters and rejected any critique of their actions. . .

Unlike the Harvard faculty statement that was signed mostly by faculty from the hard sciences, many of the Berkeley faculty signatories are from the humanities and social sciences, and included the chancellor, Carol Christ, and (the very left) law school Dean Erwin Chemerinsky.

The protest itself was rather underwhelming. It ran continuously from noon to when I wandered by again around 4:30, and there were never more than about 300 people listening to the deranged speakers drone on and on with the same cliches about genocide, colonialism, and so forth.

Notice in this first clip how the speaker specifically calls out Berkeley Law School for special criticism. Other speakers who I did not record not only attacked Berkeley Law, but mentioned by name Prof. Steven Solomon (author of the Wall Street Journal column last week entitled Dont Hire My Anti-Semitic Law Students) and Dean Chemerinsky. It is truly a bizarro world when Chemerinsky is being attacked from the left.

The second speaker here, who was wearing a dress and I am guessing goes by they/them pronouns, is the head of the graduate students union:

As I say, the crowd was tiny for a school with over 30,000 students. Even though some speakers, like this last one here, spouted cliches recycled from the Vietnam Era, protests of old generated much larger audiences. I am not convinced that all the people who watched any of the protests were even students or staff. Any campus protest draws a lot of the old fossil Communists from the Berkeley community, mostly followers of an old Trotskyite has-been named Bob Avakian, who still commands a cult-like following of geriatric lefties that clusters for old-school teach-ins at Revolution Books on Durant Ave. Whatever the issue, their message is always the same: worldwide revolution is right around the corner!

Still, there was one disturbing and highly revealing aspect of the event. The official campus event staff that was watching for trouble wore yellow safety vests, and out of sight a block away was a large reserve police presence, though there was never any chance that Antifa would cause trouble because they are pro-Hamas, needless to say. But there was a small group of masked individuals, wearing orange safety vests and thus hoping to appear official, who went up to students who were taking pictures on their phones telling them to stop taking pictures because it was threatening to the protesters, who might be doxxed. I politely informed one of these goons that he had no legal authority to issue such a command at a newsworthy event in a public space, and he backed off.

The protesters wearing masks were not doing so out of COVID fear. It is never a good sign when a political faction wears masks to conceal their identity.

And the Berkeley Warn Me crime notification system sent out this message late in the day:

An attempted robbery occurred at the rally located on upper Sproul Plaza. Suspects attempted to grab victims backpack, flag, and ultimately grabbed her metal water bottle. The suspect with the metal water bottle walked around in the crowd and eventually swung the water bottle hitting the victim. Victim did not need further medical assistance. Suspects are still outstanding. This case is under investigation.

Still, good to see that while this protest was going on, other students had their tables out on the plaza with more sensible interests:
In the adjacent post, I quote President Biden regurgitating the shibboleths governing the administrations Middle East foreign policy. To get a full view of the underlying idiocy that events have exposed, see Joe Simonsons Free Beacon story In Foreign Affairs Essay, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan Said Biden Has De-Escalated Crises in Gaza. Then He Erased the Evidence. Subhead: Foreign Affairs edited Sullivans piece after Hamas attacks.

Here is the opening of Simonsons story:

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan boasted in a Foreign Affairs essay that the White House de-escalated crises in Gazathen made substantial revisions after Hamass terrorist rampage in early October sparked a war. The print edition of National Security Adviser Jake Sullivans Foreign Affairs piece, titled The Sources of American Power, outlines how the Biden administrations foreign policy for a changed world is leading to a freer and more stable world. Sullivan particularly praises Biden for helping to bring peace to the Middle East. The Israeli-Palestinian situation is tense, particularly in the West Bank, Sullivan wrote, but in the face of serious frictions, we have de-escalated crises in Gaza and restored direct diplomacy between the parties after years of its absence. That was one of several lines removed or altered in the online version of Sullivans piece in light of Hamass Oct. 7 invasion of Israel, which left 1,300 Israelis dead. The original version seems to have gone to print prior to the attack, and appeared in the print edition of the magazine released Wednesday. Publications rarely allow an author to make substantial changes after a piece has been sent to print, revisions are generally reserved for factual errors. But the digital edits to Sullivans piece are immense, and undermine his original argument that Biden is forging peace in the Middle East.

As always, I especially appreciate this: Foreign Affairs did not respond to a request for comment. See the whole thing here.
Inside the Biden administration, the genocidal war on Israel has provoked idiotic repetition of the same old song, only more so. This is President Biden speaking yesterday at a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (White House transcript here):

Hamas is hiding behind Palestinian civilians, and its despicable and, not surprisingly, cowardly as well.

This also puts an added burden on Israel while they go after Hamas.

But that does not lessen the need for  to operate and align with the laws of war for Israeli  it has to do everything in its power  Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians. And its difficult.

I want to thank the Israeli  the Israelis and the Palestinian  excuse me, and President Sisi of Egypt for working with the United States to make sure that food, water, and medical supplies are getting through to innocent people in Gaza.

The flow needs to increase, and were working very hard with our partners to make that happen.

Were also working around the clock, together with our partners in the  in the region, to secure the release of hostages and  including American citizens behind  left behind and held by Hamas and the safe passage of foreign nationals out of Gaza  not just Americans but Australians and a whole range of people who are trapped in Gaza.
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Amarc Resources Ltd. ("Amarc" or the "Company") (TSXV:AHR)(OTCQB:AXREF) is pleased to announce that planning has commenced with Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), in preparation for an intended extensive 2024 drilling program at its 100% owned JOY Copper-Gold District (or "JOY" or the "District") in north-central British Columbia ("BC"). The program - planned to commence at site in early June - is to be fully funded by Freeport, which is earning-in at JOY. Amarc will continue as operator of the project.Amarc has recently completed the 2023 field program at JOY. This year's program was designed to inform the 2024 drilling plans and included extensive airborne and surface exploration surveys, focused on the detailed refinement of multiple porphyry copper-gold deposit targets clustered along mineralized trends across the JOY District. The final results from these comprehensive surveys are now being received and once appropriately verified and integrated into existing datasets, will be released.The principal components of the 2023 surveys were:638 line-km of airborne Magnetotelluric ("MT") geophysics;30 km2 of ground-based MT geophysics;72.5 line-km of Induced Polarization ground geophysics;465 geological survey traverse-km;769 systematic rock chip samples for assay; and1,788 grid soil samples for assay.To facilitate future drilling, rehabilitation of exploration trail and bridge access to the PINE Cu-Au Deposit in the centre of the JOY tenure and other deposit targets was completed with Chu Cho Industries LP, a Tsay Keh Dene Nation business."The Amarc team continues to capitalize on our collaborative relationship with Freeport, and pool our expertise with the goal of efficiently unlocking value across the extensive 482 km2 JOY District," said Dr. Diane Nicolson Amarc President and CEO. "As the Company looks forward to a significant drill exploration program in 2024, we believe there is a real opportunity to make multiple, significant copper-gold deposit discoveries delivering an active and exciting year for our shareholders, contractors and local communities." About the JOY DistrictAmarc's 100%-owned JOY District is located on the northern extension of the prolific Kemess porphyry Cu-Au District that includes the former Kemess South mine, the permitted and development-stage Kemess North underground deposit, and the advanced-stage Kemess East underground deposit - all currently held by Centerra Gold Inc. Through its association with Hunter Dickinson Inc., Amarc's technical team was first to recognize the Kemess District's true porphyry potential, acquiring Kemess North and Kemess South as early-stage prospects and advancing both to significant porphyry Cu-Au deposits. Kemess South was sold in 1996 on beneficial terms to a predecessor of Northgate Minerals, which brought that deposit into production.The JOY District is readily accessed via resource roads servicing the southern end of the Toodoggone region, including Centerra's Kemess porphyry Cu-Au deposits and the historical Lawyers, Baker and Shasta epithermal precious metal mines now being redeveloped by Benchmark Metals Inc. and TDG Gold Corp, respectively.In May 2021, Amarc entered into a Mineral Property Earn-In Agreement (the "EIA") with Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (see Amarc release May 12, 2021). Freeport may acquire up to a 70% ownership interest in JOY by making staged investments totaling $110 million.Freeport's investments into JOY to date include $5.94 million contributed in 2021 and approximately $14 million in 2022 (see Amarc releases November 15 and December 15, 2021). Comprehensive drilling and surface exploration programs in 2021 and 2022 expanded the PINE Cu-Au Deposit, with potential for further expansion, and made a new porphyry Cu-Au discovery called Canyon (see Amarc releases dated March 7, 2022, March 2, 2023 and June 26, 2023).Further in-depth information on historical and more recent exploration activities completed within the JOY District prior to 2021 can be found in the Company's 'JOY Project 2020 Technical Report', filed under Amarc's profile at www.sedarplus.ca or located on its website at https://amarcresources.com/projects/joy-project/technical-report/ About Amarc Resources Ltd.Amarc is a mineral exploration and development company with an experienced and successful management team focused on developing a new generation of long-life, high-value porphyry Cu-Au mines in BC. By combining high-demand projects with dynamic management, Amarc has created a solid platform to create value from its exploration and development-stage assets.Amarc is advancing its 100%-owned IKE, DUKE and JOY porphyry CuAu Districts located in different prolific porphyry regions of southern, central and northern BC, respectively. Each District represents significant potential for the development of multiple and important-scale, porphyry CuAu deposits. Importantly, each of the three districts is located in proximity to industrial infrastructure - including power, highways and rail.Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. at JOY and Boliden Mineral Canada Ltd. ("Boliden"), an entity within the Boliden Group of companies at DUKE, can earn up to a 70% interest in each District through staged investments of $110 million and $90 million, respectively. Together this provides Amarc with potentially up to $200 million in non-share dilutive staged funding. Amarc is the operator of both programs.Amarc is associated with HDI, a diversified, global mining company with a 35-year history of porphyry Cu deposit discovery and development success. Previous and current HDI projects include some of BC's and the world's most important porphyry deposits - such as Pebble, Mount Milligan, Southern Star, Kemess South, Kemess North, Gibraltar, Prosperity, Xietongmen, Newtongmen, Florence, Casino, Sisson, Maggie, IKE, PINE and DUKE. From its head office in Vancouver, Canada, HDI applies its unique strengths and capabilities to acquire, develop, operate and monetize mineral projects.Amarc works closely with local governments, Indigenous groups and stakeholders in order to advance its mineral projects responsibly, and in a manner that contributes to sustainable community and economic development. We pursue early and meaningful engagement to ensure our mineral exploration and development activities are well coordinated and broadly supported, address local priorities and concerns, and optimize opp
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 26. Prime Minister of Hungary Viktor Orban will make an official visit to Kazakhstan, Trend reports.

As the press service of the President of Kazakhstan said, the visit will take place on November 2.

"During the visit, the interlocutors will discuss issues on further expansion of Kazakh-Hungarian cooperation in trade, economic, investment and cultural-humanitarian spheres," said the statement.
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own shares of Archer Aviation, Inc. (NYSE:ACHR)?Did you purchase your shares between September 17, 2021 and August 15, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Archer Aviation, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights? Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Archer Aviation, Inc. ("Archer" or the "Company") (NYSE:ACHR) between September 17, 2021 and August 15, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Archer Aviation securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Archer Aviation, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com According to the Complaint, Archer purports to design and develop electric vertical takeoff and landing ("eVTOL") aircraft for use in urban air mobility ("UAM") networks. Since its inception, Archer has consistently touted the efficacy of its eVTOL aircraft design and flight testing procedures, the profitability of its business partnerships, and its ability to secure from the Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") the necessary regulatory certification for the mass production of aircraft for commercial use.Plaintiff alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period, including failing to disclose to investors that Archer: (i) relied on heavily edited videos of earlier flights to exaggerate the amount of flight testing it had performed and the sophistication of its eVTOL aircraft; (ii) had misrepresented the nature and profitability of its business partnerships, (iii) was unlikely to secure FAA certification in the timeframe it had represented to investors.On August 16, 2023, before the market opened, Grizzly Research released a report on Archer (the "Report"). The Report alleged, among other things, that Archer relies on heavily edited videos of earlier flights to misrepresent the amount of flight testing the Company has actually performed and the sophistication of Archer's eVTOL aircraft. The Report also alleged that investigators who had spoken to former Archer employees and businesses in close proximity to its flight-testing facilities who witness its flights, confirmed that Archer conducts far fewer flights than the Company has claimed. Finally, the Report alleged that Archer misrepresented the timelines for its lab and manufacturing facility in San Jose, California, becoming operational, and securing FAA certification of its 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.If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than November 20, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.If you purchased or acquired Archer securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Archer Aviation, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
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LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 25, 2023 / Ascend Agency, a leading PR and marketing firm based in Southern California, ranked #2 on Adweek's prestigious list of the Fastest-Growing Agencies of 2023. With a revenue growth of 2,920% from 2020 to 2022, Ascend Agency has cemented its status as one of the country's most rapidly expanding PR agencies.This exceptional growth is even more remarkable given Ascend Agency's lean team of fewer than 20 employees. The company's innovative business model allows its small but mighty team to serve over 500 clients.From its inception, Ascend has focused on elevating its clients' brands through expertly crafted stories published across major online and print media outlets. The agency's services include media placements, social media management, and carefully crafted authority-building campaigns.In 2022 alone, Ascend Agency expanded its publisher relationships by over 200, signing new contracts with publishers across the media landscape. This move indicates growth and broadening its network, providing clients with diverse and influential platforms for publication.Founder and CEO Jonathan Jadali explains, "This is a higher calling with immense benefits. In today's age, any PR campaign is unlikely to succeed without a social impact angle." He adds, "In the last five years, we have grown from a one-service agency to a one-stop shop for all branded content. We have developed an extensive reach across publications and platforms and even acquired exclusive rights on some platforms." Over the past year, Ascend has cultivated monumental deals with iconic media giants across the globe. These partnerships provide Ascend with immense resources and connections to serve clients across diverse sectors better. Jadali and his team have leveraged these relationships to catalyze tremendous growth for the young company.The nod from Adweek, a revered name in the marketing domain since 1979, signifies more than just a position on a list for Ascend. Adweek's list is a compilation and reflects industry trends, growth, and innovation. Ascend Agency's place on this list showcases its resilience, adaptability, and continuous drive to set higher standards. The company is well poised for continued expansion as businesses increasingly seek integrated solutions to build awareness, credibility, and loyalty through impactful storytelling.Brands, no matter their size or industry, have stories worth telling. Ascend Agency has positioned itself as the medium through which these narratives reach their audience. By aiding brands in showcasing their unique journeys and values, Ascend ensures that these entities gain recognition, authority, and trust in their respective sectors.To learn more about Ascend Agency, visit ascendagency.com or email them at contact@ ascendagency.com About Ascend Agency:Ascend Agency is an award-winning PR, marketing, and advertorial firm in Southern California. Founded in 2020, Ascend specializes in helping influencers, public figures, artists, and entrepreneurs across various industries grow their audiences. Ascend is committed to moving brands forward through the power of storytelling and meaningful conversations.Media Contact & Details:Website URL: https://ascendagency.com/ Company Name: Ascend AgencyEmail address: george@ ascendagency.com SOURCE: Ascend Agency
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 22:31:06

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Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United StatesVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Aton Resources Inc. (AAN:TSX-V) ("Aton" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release of September 26, 2023, it has closed its non-brokered private placement for proceeds of $3 million (the "Private Placement"). The net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to fund continued exploration and development activities at Aton's Rodruin and Hamama concessions, located in Egypt, and for general working capital. All currency amounts in this news release are in Canadian dollars.Private Placement Highlights:Pursuant to the Private Placement, the Corporation issued 13,636,364 common shares (the "Shares") at a price of $0.22 per Share for total proceeds of $3,000,000.All Shares issued in the Private Placement are subject to a hold period of four months plus one day from the closing date, expiring February 27, 2024.Participation of Insiders in the Private PlacementInsiders, OU Moonrider ("Moonrider"), a significant shareholder of the Corporation, and Assem Soliman, a director of the Corporation, subscribed for a total of 12,996,364 Shares of the Private Placement. Participation by the insiders constitutes a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The Corporation is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation by insiders in the Private Placement does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Corporation, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.Early WarningOn October 26, 2023, Moonrider purchased 12,921,364 Shares in the Private Placement. The 12,921,364 Shares were purchased at a price of $0.22 per Share for total consideration of C$2,842,700.08.Prior to the Private Placement, Moonrider beneficially owned, controlled, or directed an aggregate of 28,064,962 Shares and 20,000,000 share purchase warrants, representing approximately 43.10% of the outstanding Shares of Aton on a non-diluted basis and approximately 56.47% on a partially diluted basis, assuming Moonrider's exercise of its warrants.Following the Private Placement, Moonrider beneficially owns, controls, or directs an aggregate of 40,986,326 Shares and 20,000,000 share purchase warrants, representing approximately 52.04% of the outstanding Shares of Aton on a non-diluted basis and approximately 61.76% on a partially diluted basis, assuming Moonrider's exercise of its warrants.Moonrider may, depending on market or other conditions, increase or decrease its beneficial ownership, control or direction over, or exercise its current rights to acquire, Shares through market transactions, private agreements or otherwise.Moonrider's head office is located at Toompuiestee 37, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia. Aton's head office is located at 1700 - 666 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 2 X8.This press release is being disseminated as required by National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take Over Bids and Insider Reporting Issuers in connection with the filing of an early warning report.An early warning report will be electronically filed by Moonrider with the applicable securities commission in each jurisdiction where Aton is reporting and will be available on Sedar Plus at www.sedarplus.ca.About Aton Resources Inc.Aton Resources Inc. (AAN:TSX-V) is focused on its 100% owned Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat"), located in Egypt's Arabian-Nubian Shield, approximately 200 km north of Centamin's world-class Sukari gold mine. Aton has identified numerous gold and base metal exploration targets at Abu Marawat, including the Hamama deposit in the west, the Abu Marawat deposit in the northeast, and the advanced Rodruin exploration prospect in the south of the Concession. Two historic British gold mines are also located on the Concession at Sir Bakis and Semna. Aton has identified several distinct geological trends within Abu Marawat, which display potential for the development of a variety of styles of precious and base metal mineralisation. Abu Marawat is 447.7 km2 in size and is located in an area of excellent infrastructure; a four-lane highway, a 220kV power line, and a water pipeline are in close proximity, as are the international airports at Hurghada and Luxor.For further information regarding Aton Resources Inc., please visit us at www.atonresources.com or contact:Tonno VahkInterim CEO Tel: +1 604 318 0390Email: info@ atonresources.com Note Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsSome of the statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions; by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results in each case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such 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.SOURCE: Aton Resources, Inc.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 23:02:22

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Early Black Friday iPhone 15, 14, 13 deals for 2023 are underway, compare the top early Black Friday Apple iPhone 13 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 15 Plus & more savings belowBOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Early Black Friday iPhone 13, 14, 15 deals are here. Compare the best offers on the Apple iPhone 15 (Pro, Pro Max, Plus), iPhone 14 (Pro, Pro Max, Plus) & iPhone 13 (Pro, Pro Max, mini). Shop the best deals in the list below.Best iPhone Deals:Save up to $1,000 on Apple iPhone 15 Pro, 15, 14, 13 & more ( ATT.com)Save up to 61% on the latest Apple iPhones (carrier & unlocked) ( Walmart.com)Save up to to $1,000 on Apple iPhones ( Verizon.com)Save on the iPhone 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 15 Plus, 14 Pro Max & more ( Xfinity.com)Consumer Walk earns commissions from purchases made using the links provided.Apple's iPhone, a revolutionary device that transformed the mobile phone industry, continues to evolve with the recent release of the iPhone 15 lineup. The latest generation showcases Apple's commitment to innovation and refinement, offering users a blend of cutting-edge technology and exceptional user experience.The iPhone 15 Plus features a durable, color-infused back glass and a new contoured edge design. It's powered by the A17 Bionic chip, offering a significant performance boost over previous generations. Meanwhile, the Pro models, 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, offer aerospace-grade titanium design, the A17 Pro chip, and a new 5x Telephoto lens for close-up photography.This year's Black Friday, landing on November 24, 2023, marks the traditional kickoff of the holiday shopping season, a significant event for consumers and retailers alike. Shoppers anticipate a flurry of discounts and promotions, with retailers vying to attract customers. This day offers an opportunity for cost-conscious consumers to secure a variety of products at reduced prices. Black Friday 2023 is poised to continue its tradition as a pivotal moment for both retailers and shoppers, setting the stage for a bustling holiday season.About Consumer Walk: Consumer Walk reports the latest online retail news. As an affiliate Consumer Walk earns from qualifying purchases.Contact:Andy Mathewsandy@ nicelynetwork.com SOURCE: Consumer Walk
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 07:45:25

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own shares of CS Disco, Inc. (NYSE:LAW)?Did you purchase your shares between July 21, 2021 and August 11, 2022, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in CS Disco, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights? Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the common stock of CS Disco, Inc. ("CS Disco" or the "Company") (NYSE:LAW) between July 21, 2021 and August 11, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired CS Disco common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit CS Disco, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Plaintiff alleges that Defendants made misstatements throughout the Class Period. According to the Complaint, CS Disco asserts that it provides cloud-based, artificial intelligence-powered technologies to simplify electronic discovery, legal document review, legal hold and case management for enterprises, law firms, legal services providers, and governments. CS Disco's principal revenue-generating segment was its electronic document review platform. Beginning with its July 2021 initial public offering ("IPO") and throughout the Class Period, CS Disco repeatedly touted strong growth in its revenues attributable to customer usage of its cloud-based electronic discovery platform and asserted that it had good advance visibility into changes in the demand from individual customers over time.On August 11, 2022, CS Disco released financial results for the second quarter of 2022 that shocked investors and analysts alike. Not only did the Company's revenue growth taper drastically over past quarters, but the Company alerted the markets that it would no longer be including in its guidance any revenues attributable to its largest customers for the entire year. Nevertheless, during an investors call following the earnings release, the Company's Chief Executive Officer denied that the Company's decline in revenue was the result of losing any major customers.On this news, CS Disco's common stock fell $15.53 per share, or approximately 53.6%, to $13.43 per share on August 12, 2022.If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than November 20, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.If you purchased or acquired CS Disco common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit CS Disco, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 22:10:47

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Third quarter revenue increased 31% sequentiallyCash from operations of $26.8 millionSuccessfully completed the acquisition of Great NorthHOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Dril-Quip, Inc. (NYSE:DRQ), (the "Company" or "Dril-Quip"), a developer, manufacturer and provider of highly engineered equipment, service, and innovative technologies for use in the energy industry, today reported operational and financial results for the third quarter of 2023.Third Quarter HighlightsRevenue of $117.2 million increased 31% sequentially and 33% year-over-yearNet Loss of $7.0 million decreased $10.5 million sequentially and $20.3 million year-over-yearAdjusted EBITDA of $12.4 million increased $3.6 million sequentially and increased $5.3 million year-over-yearGross Margin of 27.0% increased 32 basis points sequentially and increased 154 basis points year-over-yearCash provided by operations of $26.8 million, an increase of $25.8 million year-over-yearFree cash flow of $21.4 million increased $20.3 million sequentially and $30.6 million year-over-yearNet Bookings of $46.5 million decreased 36% sequentially and 25% year-over-yearRemain on track to complete footprint optimization initiatives by year end 2023Awarded wellhead tender with Petrobras supporting their pre-salt well development project worth up to $28 millionFirst delivery of XPak DeTM liner hangers for exploration projects in AfricaParticipation in a geothermal project in New Zealand through our connector product lineSuccessfully completed the acquisition of Great North which contributed $15.5 million to third quarter revenue"Our third quarter delivered strong revenue, both from the addition of Great North, as well as growth driven by key deliveries to customers in markets such as Brazil, the Middle East, and West Africa. After closing on the Great North acquisition in early August, results for that business this quarter were in line with expectations, and we are excited about its continued growth trajectory," said Jeff Bird, Dril-Quip's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Free cash flow was very strong this quarter, the highest since 2017, as we improved overall working capital and received a long-awaited U.S. tax refund." "More recently, capacity constraints in the offshore rig market are introducing headwinds. Multiple customers have delayed product orders and service deliveries due to rig availability delaying drilling schedules, with latest estimates pushing some activity to spring of 2024. This directly impacted the bookings figure in the third quarter, as well as, our mix of Subsea Product and Subsea Service revenue, in comparison to our expectations. The lower Subsea Service revenue ultimately drove lower profitability in the third quarter. Our view that we are in the early innings of a multi-year offshore upcycle and that Dril-Quip's portfolio is well-positioned for growth remains unchanged. We look forward to updating investors on our 2024 outlook and updates to our strategic initiatives on our year-end earnings conference call in February 2024."In conjunction with today's release, the Company posted a new investor presentation entitled "Q3 2023 Investor Presentation" to its website, www.dril-quip.com , on the "Events & Presentations" page under the Investors tab. Investors should note that Dril-Quip announces material financial information in Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") filings, press releases and public conference calls. Dril-Quip may use the Investors section of its website ( www.dril-quip.com) to communicate with investors. It is possible that the financial and other information posted there could be deemed to be material information. Information on Dril-Quip's website is not part of this release.Operational and Financial ResultsRevenue, Cost of Sales and Gross Operating MarginConsolidated revenue for the third quarter of 2023 was $117.2 million, up $27.6 million from the second quarter of 2023 and up $29.1 million compared to the third quarter of 2022. The increase in revenue was primarily driven by the acquisition of Great North in the third quarter which contributed $15.5 million in the quarter and an increase of $11.3 million in our Subsea Products segment as key customer deliveries were made in growing international offshore markets. Well Construction revenues increased $16.2 million sequentially, from $21.4 million to $37.6 million, primarily driven by the acquisition of Great North as well as large bore liner hanger growth in offshore Brazil and West Africa. Subsea Services segment revenue increased 6% year-over-year to $23.7 million, and Subsea Products segment revenue increased 15% compared to the prior year to $55.9 million.Cost of sales for the third quarter of 2023 was $85.6 million, an increase of $19.9 million sequentially and year-over year. Gross operating margin for the third quarter of 2023 was 27.0%, up from 26.7% for the second quarter of 2023 and up from 25.4% year-over-year. Gross margins increased year-over-year, driven by incremental leverage on higher sales in Well Construction and Subsea Products.Selling, General, Administrative, and Engineering ExpensesSelling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses for the third quarter of 2023 were $27.0 million, an increase of $4.9 million compared to the second quarter of 2023 and an increase of $4.6 million year-over-year. SG&A increased sequentially and year-over-year primarily due the addition of Great North expenses and an increase to the bad debt reserve due to higher activity. Engineering and product development expenses were $3.1 million for the third quarter of 2023, a decrease of $0.1 million from the second quarter of 2023 and an increase of $0.4 million year-over-year. The year-over-year increase is attributed to increased testing and qualification activities related to specific international customer requirements.Net Income, Adjusted EBITDA and Free Cash FlowFor the third quarter of 2023, the Company reported net loss of $7.0 million, or a loss of $0.21 per share. This compares to net income of $3.5 million, or $0.10 per share, for the second quarter of 2023 and a net income of $13.3 million, or $0.39 per share, in the prior year period.Adjusted EBITDA totaled $12.4 million for the third quarter of 2023 compared to $8.8 million for the second quarter 2023 and $7.0 million in the prior year period. The increase in adjusted EBITDA sequentially and from the year ago period can be attributed to increased revenues and the acquisition of Great North in the third quarter of 2023.Cash provided by operations was $26.8 million for the third quarter of 2023, an improvement of $15.5 million sequent
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 12:20:10

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Director DealingTORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (AIM:ECO)(TSXV:EOG), the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins in South Africa, Namibia, and Guyana, announces that Alan Friedman, Non-executive Director of Eco, has purchased 60,000 common shares in the Company ("Common Shares") at a price of CAD$0.175 per share (the "Share Purchase").Following the Share Purchase, Alan Friedman is beneficially interested in, in aggregate, 2,110,643 Common Shares representing approximately 0.57 per cent. of the Company's currently issued share capital.For more information, please visit www.ecooilandgas.com or contact the following:Eco Atlantic Oil and Gasc/o Celicourt +44 (0) 20 7770 6424Gil Holzman, CEOColin Kinley, COOAlice Carroll, Head of Corporate Sustainability+44(0)781 729 5070Strand Hanson (Financial & Nominated Adviser)+44 (0) 20 7409 3494James HarrisJames Bellman Berenberg (Broker)+44 (0) 20 3207 7800Matthew ArmittDetlir Elezi Echelon Capital (Financial Adviser N. America Markets) Ryan Mooney Simon Akit+1 (403) 606 4852+1 (416) 8497776Celicourt (PR)+44 (0) 20 7770 6424Mark AntelmeJimmy Lea About Eco Atlantic:Eco Atlantic is a TSX-V and AIM-quoted Atlantic Margin-focused oil & gas exploration company with offshore license interests in Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa. Eco aims to deliver material value for its stakeholders through its role in the energy transition to explore for low carbon intensity oil and gas in stable emerging markets close to infrastructure.Offshore Guyana in the proven Guyana-Suriname Basin, the Company holds a 15% Working Interest in the 1,800 km2 Orinduik Block Operated by Tullow Oil. In Namibia, the Company holds Operatorship and an 85% Working Interest in four offshore Petroleum Licences: PELs: 97, 98, 99, and 100, representing a combined area of 28,593 km2 in the Walvis Basin.Offshore South Africa, Eco is Operator and holds a 50% working interest in Block 2B and a 26.25% Working Interest in Block 3B/4B operated by Africa Oil Corp., totalling some 20,643km2.PDMR notificationThe notifications below are made in accordance with the requirements of UK MAR:1.Details of the person discharging managerial responsibilities / person closely associateda)NameAlan Friedman2.Reason for the Notificationa)Position/statusNon-executive Directorb)Initial notification/amendmentInitial notification3.Details of the issuer, emission allowance market participant, auction platform, auctioneer or auction monitora)NameECO (ATLANTIC) OIL & GAS LTD.b)LEI213800WPR7ASTDWQUW504.Details of the transaction(s): section to be repeated for (i) each type of instrument; (ii) each type of transaction; (iii) each date; and (iv)each place where transactions have been conducteda)Description of the Financial instrument, type of instrumentCommon shares of no par value in the CompanyIdentification codeCA27887W1005b)Nature of the TransactionPurchase of common shares of no par value in the Companyc)Price(s) and volume(s)Price(s)Volume(s)CAD$0.17560,000d)Aggregated informationAggregated volume PriceN/A (Single transaction)e)Date of the transaction 25 October 2023f)Place of the transactionTSX Venture ExchangeThis information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@ lseg.com or visit www.rns.com SOURCE: Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas Ltd.
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 14:46:20

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SAN JOSE, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / FUNToken, a pioneer in blockchain technology and the iGaming industry, proudly announces its groundbreaking partnership with Fizen Super App. This collaboration is set to transform how consumers experience digital transactions, emphasizing the versatility and innovation of FUNToken."We're not just forging a business alliance; we're pioneering a lifestyle shift," said Head of Business Development Sabine Ross. "Integrating FUNToken into Fizen Super App allows users to effortlessly make purchases, from their daily coffee runs to their significant weekly expenditures, all powered by FUNToken." The decision to collaborate with Fizen was driven by the latter's revolutionary vision and its potential to reshape the digital market landscape. Fizen's Crypto Spending Super App, coupled with its robust and secure payment infrastructure, resonates with FUNToken's overarching goal of widening the adoption and utility of blockchain technology.The FUNToken Experience on FizenThe synergy between FUNToken and Fizen offers users a glimpse into the future of shopping. Envision a scenario where you walk into a cafe, scan a QR code using the Fizen Super App, and instantly pay for your order using FUNToken. Thanks to this strategic partnership, what once seemed like a distant dream is now a tangible reality.Why FUNToken Stands Out on Fizen:Accessibility: With Fizen's vast network of vendors, FUNToken ensures that users can transact anytime, anywhere.Ease of Use: Fizen's user-friendly interface, combined with the power of FUNToken, eliminates cumbersome transaction processes, offering a unified and streamlined experience.Unparalleled Security: Users can confidently transact knowing that state-of-the-art encryption mechanisms safeguard every FUNToken transaction on Fizen.This collaboration between FUNToken and Fizen is just the beginning. Both entities are eager to delve deeper into this partnership's limitless potential, aiming to simplify lives one transaction at a time."We're on the cusp of something monumental. We invite everyone to update or download the Fizen Super App and immerse themselves in the unmatched convenience that FUNToken offers," added Sabine Ross, Head of Business Development.About Fizen Fizen.io is an all-in-one crypto payment solution that aims to bridge the gap between traditional finance and complex, expanding decentralized finance by providing a user-friendly and seamless experience.Website l  l | Telegram | LinkedIn l Facebook l YoutubeAbout FUNTokenFUNToken's objective is simple - harnessing the power of blockchain tech to create "trustless" gaming ecosystems that users can rely on and operators can implement seamlessly.FUNToken is backed by the best in the business - FreeBitco.in is committed to fueling FUNToken's efforts of making non-custodial gaming an industry standard.Website | Twitter | Portfolio | Telegram | Medium | Reddit | LinkedInMedia Contact:Nicholas NandaFUNTokeninfo@ funtoken.ioSan Jose,Costa RicaSOURCE: FUNToken
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 07:45:41

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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP:Do you, or did you, own shares of Enviva, Inc. (NYSE:EVA)?Did you purchase your shares between November 3, 2022 and May 3, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Enviva, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights?Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the common stock of Enviva, Inc. ("Enviva" or the "Company") (NYSE:EVA) between November 3, 2022 and May 3, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Enviva common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Enviva, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com According to the Complaint, Enviva develops, constructs, acquires, and operates fully contracted wood pellet production plants. These plants take wood fiber and aggregate and process it into dry, densified, uniform pellets that can be effectively stored and transported around the world. The Company, describing itself as a "growth-oriented company," uses its wood pellets to displace coal and other fossil fuels to generate power and heat as part of its efforts to accelerate the transition away from conventional energy sources.Plaintiff alleges that Defendants represented that Enviva was on track to achieve EBITDA of $305-$335 million for fiscal 2023 and a yearly dividend payout of $3.62 per share, and that Enviva's liquidity going into 2023 was "strong".On May 3, 2023, Defendants issued a press release before the market opened, dramatically lowering their FY 2023 guidance downward and suspended Enviva's dividend payments going forward. Defendants now projected that Enviva's 2023 EBITDA would be substantially lower, in the range of $200-250 million, the Company's net loss would be substantially higher, increasing to a range of $136-$186 million, and its $0.905 per share quarterly dividend was eliminated.On this news, Enviva's stock price declined $14.34 per share, or approximately 67.2%, to close at $21.35 per share on May 4, 2023.If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than November 13, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.If you purchased or acquired Enviva common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Enviva, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
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Do you, or did you, own shares of Farfetch Limited (NYSE: FTCH)?Did you purchase your shares between March 9, 2023 and August 17, 2023, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in Farfetch Limited?NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the securities of Farfetch Limited ("Farfetch" or the "Company") (NYSE:FTCH) between March 9, 2023 and August 17, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").If you purchased or acquired Farfetch securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Farfetch Limited Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com According to the Complaint, Farfetch, together with its subsidiaries, operates a global platform for the luxury fashion industry. In addition to revenue, one of Farfetch's most important financial metrics is gross merchandise value ("GMV"), which the Company defines as the total dollar value of orders processed, inclusive of product value, shipping, and duty, and net of returns, value added taxes, and cancellations. According to Farfetch, the Company's GMV closely correlates with its revenue.Plaintiff alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Among other things, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (i) Farfetch was experiencing a significant slowdown in growth in the U.S. and China; (ii) Farfetch faced onboarding challenges impacting the launch of its Reebok partnership; (iii) Farfetch downplayed challenges it faced with respect to, and/or overstated its ability to manage, its supply chain and inventory; (iv) the foregoing was having a significant negative impact on Farfetch's revenue and GMV growth; and (v) accordingly, Farfetch was unlikely to meet market expectations for its Q2 2023 financial results or its own FY 2023 revenue guidance.On August 17, 2023, Farfetch issued a press release announcing its Q2 2023 financial results. Among other items, Farfetch reported revenue of approximately $572 million, significantly less than the market consensus of $650.71 million. Farfetch also issued an FY 2023 revenue forecast of approximately $2.5 billion, compared to the average analyst estimate of $2.8 billion and the Company's prior FY 2023 revenue forecast of $2.9 billion.On this news, Farfetch's stock price fell $2.15 per share, or over 45%, to close at $2.61 per share on August 18, 2023.If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than December 19, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.If you purchased or acquired Farfetch securities, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit Farfetch Limited Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC) is interested in the use of its platform by Azerbaijani companies, acting chairman of the board of the AIFC Administration Temirlan Mukhanbetzhanov told reporters at the Fintech Forum in Baku, in response to Trend's question.

"We are interested in Azerbaijani companies using our platform in order to attract financing. Such an opportunity exists," he emphasized.

In terms of general cooperation with Azerbaijan, he stated that AIFC is always ready to collaboration, particularly with such a brotherly country as Azerbaijan.

AIFC is a one-of-a-kind center on the global economic map, integrating the greatest expertise and most current capabilities of major financial centers ranging from New York and London to Dubai, Hong Kong, and Singapore.

Astana worldwide Financial Centre provides the most successful worldwide financial center methods and technologies, complimented by its remarkable advantages.

Furthermore, AIFC creates new opportunities for investors by offering securities issued by public and private issuers in Kazakhstan and other countries in the region, as well as business projects of various scales, ranging from large-scale projects (at the level of the Belt and Road Initiative) to small IT startups, and for businesses by facilitating access to investors, including major international and regional financial institutions, asset managers, and representatives of asset management firms.
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Farfetch Limited ("Farfetch" or "the Company") (NYSE:FTCH) 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 Farfetch securities between March 9, 2023 and August 17, 2023, inclusive (the "Class Period"). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/ftch 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: (i) Farfetch was experiencing a significant slowdown in growth in the U.S. and China; (ii) Farfetch also faced onboarding challenges impacting the launch of its Reebok partnership; (iii) Farfetch downplayed challenges it faced with respect to, and/or overstated its ability to manage, its supply chain and inventory; (iv) all the foregoing was having a significant negative impact on Farfetch's revenue and GMV growth; (v) accordingly, Farfetch was unlikely to meet market expectations for its Q2 2023 financial results or its own FY 2023 revenue guidance; and (vi) 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: bgandg.com/ftch 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 Farfetch you have until December 19, 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.There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.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
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PITTSBURGH, PA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Gourmet Provisions International Corporation (OTC PINK:GMPR) today announced, new custom Cousin T's display stands will be introduced at Sedona's 32 Florida Grocery Store locations. With shelf space at a premium in all grocery stores and product visibility to customers essential, Cousin T's is following GMPR's Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Jose Madrid Salsa's proven success with in store custom product display stands. Jose Madrid Salsa sells an average of over 250% more product per location per week when their product is on a custom display stand compared to being on a store's shelf. These custom display stands can hold 140 Boxes of various flavors of Gourmet Cousin T's Pancake Mix, 24 Bottles of Cousin T's Original Maple Syrup and 6 Bottles of Cousin T's Gourmet Pure Maple Syrup.GMPR has a distribution partnership with comedian Terrence K. Williams the founder & owner of the Cousin T's Gourmet Brand.Duane L. Audo head of Business Development for Gourmet Provisions International Corp. stated, "We have had many discussions with Sedona's about expanding their pancake mix flavor offerings while realizing that shelf space is very limited at all grocery stores, that is why we are excited to launch our custom Cousin T's display stands in Sedona's locations. The custom stands will give Sedona's the opportunity to carry many more Cousin T's Gourmet products without having to remove other brands from their shelves, plus the extremely desired product visibility will increase Cousin T's sales tremendously. These stands will have QR codes printed on them that will allow customers to scan and receive valuable coupons, recipe ideas and awesome videos of Cousin T's Founder Terrence K. Williams! In the future the custom stands can be configured to carry many of the other fantastic Cousin T's products such as Gourmet Coffees, Gluten-Free items and seasonal Gourmet Pancake Mixes to name a few." About Cousin T'sGourmet Provisions International signed a distribution partnership with comedian Terrence K. Williams and launched his Gourmet line of Pancake mix under Williams' custom brand Cousin T's. in October 2021. Early 2021 GMPR partnered with Williams to help create and launch a Gourmet line of food products starting with his own personal line of Gourmet Pancake Mix & Syrup all under his custom brand, Cousin T's'. Gourmet Provisions International has spent the past two years working with Williams to develop a custom line of Gourmet Pancake Mix, Maple Syrup, coffees along with the essential retail distribution network. In October 2021 Cousin T's debut its Gourmet Buttermilk, Blueberry and Apple & Cinnamon Pancake Mixes, now Cousin T's offers an array of Gourmet Pancake flavors, gluten-free options and other non breakfast items.We are working with RangeMe and food distributors UNFI, Gia Russa & McAneny Brothers to bring the Cousin T's brand to a Super Market near you.Visit the Cousin T's website to order some Gourmet Pancake Mix today:About Terrence Williams Owner & Founder of Cousin T's:Growing up in foster care I always dreamed about big family gatherings around the breakfast table with grandma in the kitchen cooking up a big family breakfast. As a kid I could almost smell that intoxicating aroma of those delicious hot and fluffy pancakes smothered in butter and warm maple syrup. I always told myself that one day I would make those fabulous pancakes and as an adult I have cultivated my love for cooking and my passion for food into my Cousin T's collection. It is my hope that there are many family conversations, laughs and lasting memories made as a result of families and loved ones joining together to eat Cousin T's pancakes. So quit reading and gather around the table and enjoy a good helping of American old-fashioned family values and a yummy and hearty meal because that's what Cousin T's is all about!Terrence K. Williams is an actor, entrepreneur and comedian, with a passion to perform. Terrence is also one of the hottest viral internet sensations, with an online following of over a million fans! "Terrence was born and raised in Oklahoma City, where he spent the first 15 years of his life growing up as a child of the system, in and out of foster-care homes." After a long day at work, Terrence decided to push the "public" button on his videos and the next day his normal 2 views turned into over 42 million views. Terrence has since dedicated his platform and comedic career to improving the lives of underprivileged children everywhere.Visit Terrence's Official Website:About Jose Madrid SalsaGourmet Provisions International Corporation purchased 100% of Jose Madrid Salsa 8 years ago and it is owned and operated as a wholly owned subsidiary of GMPR.Jose Madrid Salsa "The Healthy Fundraiser" (Wholly Owned Subsidiary of GMPR) has continued to dominate in the fundraising category, expanded its Ohio offices & production facility, recently purchased a custom delivery vehicle, has expanded into 150+ retail outlets throughout the US & Canada and food distributors Gia Russa & McAneny Brothers began carrying and distributing 10 of Jose Madrid Salsas. Gia Russa & McAneny Brothers are full service convenience and grocery store distributors, offering on-line ordering and next day delivery throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia and New York to over 3,200 retail customers. With the launch into Sedona's Jose Madrid Salsa will be carried by their distributor UNFI, opening up an opportunity to sell to 1000's of new customers.In 1976, Mike Zakany and his brother started a restaurant in downtown Zanesville, Ohio. After months of planning and building, Zak's Restaurant was a reality. The contemporary casual restaurant was a welcome addition to the small urban center and was quite successful from the family matriarch, helped her sons integrate more authentic Mexican cuisine into the menu and life of the restaurant. The Zakany family has always had a rich history as entrepreneurs. Mike's paternal grandparents opened a butcher shop and grocery store in Zanesville in 1942. Mike's father, uncle and entire family worked very hard to continue to grow the family business over the years. Zak's Restaurant was a natural extension of the Zakany's involvement and love for the food business. The restaurant quickly developed a strong clientele. Clearly, people liked the "New Mexico" style food, the phenomenal increase in the "to go" food sales and the additional increase in dining room business confirmed their niche in the "New Mexico" style of food on the menu. The demand for salsa was a key part of the complete menu;
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Q1 Revenues for the period ending July 31, 2023 exceed estimates by over 12% to a total of 126% increase quarter over quarter. GPOX continues the roll-out of new Direct to Store Delivery model fuels escalating revenues.LAS VEGAS, NV / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / GPO Plus, Inc. (OTCQB:GPOX), a leading manufacturing and distribution company of consumer products for convenience stores and specialty retailers which include gas stations, smoke shops and vape shops is pleased to announce a Shareholder Update on growth plans for improved unit economic and increased revenue. The company is also happy to announce the launch of its updated website, GPOPlus.com Highlights:GPOX acquired the assets of Betterment Retail Solutions, our first Regional Distribution hub in Lubbock, Texas, servicing 470 retail locations. In March of 2023 GPOX began servicing these stores and quickly implemented:A new Mini-Hub strategy - hub and spoke modelA branded store in store concept called "the Feel Good Shop+"A new "White Glove Direct Store Delivery" service through their Distro+ division.The new "White Glove DSD", which included weekly visits to the stores and increased product offerings exceeded expectations, resulting in over a 365% increase in monthly sales from $580 to $2,120 per store in the first 100 stores receiving the new service and full product offering.GPOX reported a 320% increase in revenues for their fiscal 4th Quarter for the three months ending April 30, 2023, compared to 3rd Quarter. An increase from $102,000 to over $430,000.GPOPlus+ reports record 1st Quarter audited revenues of $970,735 for three months ending July 31, 2023. Over a 12% increase from expected revenues and a 126% increase from the previous Quarter.GPOX has entered the live testing, implementation and roll out phase for MSRP+, its proprietary software which powers order management, logistics optimization, lead generation, sales analytics, accounting, inventory management and ecommerce - headless commerce platform for the company's DISTRO+ division.GPOX expects to onboard over 258 stores throughout Texas, Iowa and Kansas with the company's full suite of product offerings by year end 2023 and expand into 123 locations throughout New Mexico, the roll-out of which is anticipated in early 2024.GPOX currently services approximately 570 locations in 12 states. Our expansion model is driven by highly efficient Mini-Hubs, which are vital to providing enhanced service to retail partners. Each Mini-Hub caters to 50 to 100 stores, with a small storage facility, 1-2 drivers and a minivan for product delivery. The Mini-Hubs are serviced by a regional hub in Lubbock Texas which is projected to scale to over 2,000 retail locations. In addition, the Company has pilot programs with 2 new national chains which would potentially add over 300 new locations.Brett H. Pojunis, CEO of GPOX, emphasizes "most retailers get about 80% - 85% of their products from just a few distributors, the remaining 15% - 20% of the products could be represented by dozens, and up to over 40 vendors! This is a major pain point for our corporate retailers (gas stations and convenience stores) and we have first hand knowledge that they want want to work with less vendors who can solve more problems for them in the most efficient manner. Our unique model focuses on the 15% to 20% of products not provided by retailer's primary distributors. Our white glove DSD service addresses specialty retailers challenges of identifying and qualifying new products, ensuring quality and product delivery. Our white glove service addresses 100% of these challenges and has been received with overwhelming success. We simplify and optimize operations by consolidating multiple products into one distribution service, becoming a one stop shop for these specialty retailers alleviating this major pain point. As a result our retail partners ask us, what additional products we can provide in this uncomplicated and comprehensive solution. Easy to understand when you compare our DISTRO+ drivers visiting a store once a week, stocking the shelves and preparing purchase orders for needed products, to a semi-truck dropping a shrink-wrapped pallet in the entrance of their store.Our growth strategy for the next six months is extremely focused and straight forward:Expand White Glove Service to 500+ additional stores.Leverage technology and data to improve efficiencies, lowering time in store for our drivers as well as analyze sales to optimize product mix and margin.Introduce proprietary products, such as Yuenglings Ice Cream flavored gummies and High-Cloud gummies, when appropriate to significantly increase margins. Target margins for general products is 20%, where proprietary products yield 35% to 45% gross margin.Complete pilot program with new chains with the goal of 300 additional retail locations.Increase product offerings to increase average sales per convenience to over $3,000+ per month."Brett H. Pojunis, CEO continues: "My personal goal is to service over 700 stores with average sales of $3,000 per store in 2024. While we have previously discussed that GPOX also offers our proprietary products online direct to consumer, given the scope of this opportunity we are committed to focusing resources on the current roll-out of the white glove service and adding additional chains of stores, both known national brands as well as regions groups, where an owner may have 10 to 50 locations to bring our Lubbock regional hub to full capacity.Connect with us on social media to view live video updates, content, and general information about GPOX and its GPOs: https://gpoplus.com/social Sign up for your FREE account on the GPOX Investor Relations Portal:Once you Activate your GPOX Investor Account you will have immediate access to real time information available on GPOX. Sign up for alerts (email and SMS) to be the first to know about news, SEC Filings, Investor Events, updated Investor Presentations, and more: www.GPOPlus.com/ir About GPOXLabs.ai GPOXLabs.ai is the division of GPOPlus+ that powers its technology, product development, and digital marketing to drive growth by improving operational efficiencies, developing innovative consumer products, and exploring new ways to connect with customers.Visit GPOXLabs.com for more information.About GPOPlus+ (GPOX)GPO Plus (GPOX) is a product development, manufacturing, and distribution company which offers a diverse portfolio of high-quality innovative products sold directly to consumers and retailers. Our business is organized around four key areas: products (developing and manufacturing), distribution (getting our products to customers), marketing (promoting o
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TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Gratomic Inc. ("Gratomic", "GRAT," or the "Company") (TSXV:GRAT) (OTCQX:CBULF) (FSE:CB82) wishes to announce that it has retained SP Angel Corporate Finance LLP ("SPA") of London UK to act as Nominated Advisor and Broker in connection with the proposed admission of the Company's securities to the Alternative Investment Market ("AIM") of the London Stock Exchange ("LSE"). The admission process generally takes 3 to 4 months and will require the Company to obtain a Competent Person's Report relating to the properties of the Company. SPA as the Company's nominated adviser is responsible to the LSE for assessing the appropriateness of the Company for AIM and for advising and guiding the Company on its responsibilities under the AIM Rules for Companies both in respect of its admission and its continuing obligations on an ongoing basis. The Company's admission to AIM remains conditional on, amongst other things, it meeting the eligibility requirements set out in the AIM Rules for Companies. The Company has identified the Competent Person to prepare the Competent Person's Report and is in a position to establish a timeline for the process.About GratomicGratomic is a multinational company with projects in Namibia, Brazil, and Canada. The Company is focused on becoming a leading global graphite supplier and aims to secure a strong position in the EV battery supply chain. With the continued development of its flagship Aukam project and further exploration on the Company's Capim Grosso property, Gratomic sets itself apart by seeking out unique top-quality assets around the world. True to its roots, the Company will continue to explore graphite opportunities displaying potential for development. The Company ranked third place in the top 10 performing mining stocks on the 2022 TSX Venture 50.Large quantities of high-quality vein graphite have been shipped for testing to confirm its viability as an anode material. Gratomic is confident that the test results will provide a unique competitive advantage in its desired target markets. The Company will continue to update the public on the status of these tests and will provide results as soon as they become available.The Company has formed a collaboration agreement with Forge Nano. With its patented ALD coating, this cooperation with Forge Nano is a key element to support Gratomic's strategies towards the value-added phases of production of graphite for anode applications, namely micronization, spheronization and coating, making Gratomic graphite a preferred choice for use in lithium-ion batteries.For more information: visit the website at www.gratomic.ca or contact:Arno Brand at abrand@ gratomic.ca or (416) 561- 4095Subscribe at gratomic.ca/contact/ to be added to our email list.For Marketing and Media information, please email: info@ gratomic.ca "Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release." Forward-Looking Statements:This news release contains forward-looking statements, which 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: Gratomic Inc.
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / GREAT ATLANTIC RESOURCES CORP. ( TSXV.GR) (the "Company" or "Great Atlantic") is pleased to announce it's representatives will be attending the upcoming 2023 Exploration, Mining and Petroleum (EMP) New Brunswick Conference being held at the Delta Hotel in Fredericton, New Brunswick during Sunday, October 29th to Tuesday, October 31st."We're thrilled to be Gold Sponsors at the 2023 Exploration, Mining, and Petroleum New Brunswick Conference. At Great Atlantic, we see limitless potential in New Brunswick's diverse mineral landscape, from gold to rare earth elements. Our dedicated team is excited to connect with shareholders, investors, and industry experts to share our vision for the future. Let's explore, mine, and fuel progress together!" States Great Atlantic CEO Chris AndersonGreat Atlantic has mineral claims in various regions of New Brunswick with an exploration focus on a variety of commodities including gold, silver, antimony, cobalt, nickel, copper, lead, zinc, vanadium and rare earth elements.We look forward to seeing you at the conference.On Behalf of the board of directors"Christopher R Anderson"Mr. Christopher R. AndersonPresident CEO Director604-488-3900 - OfficeInvestor Relations: 1-416-628-1560 IR @ GreatAtlanticResources.com About Great Atlantic Resources Corp.: Great Atlantic Resources Corp. is a Canadian exploration company focused on the discovery and development of mineral assets in the resource-rich and sovereign risk-free realm of Atlantic Canada, one of the number one mining regions of the world. Great Atlantic is currently surging forward building the company utilizing a Project Generation model, with a special focus on the most critical elements on the planet that are prominent in Atlantic Canada, Gold, Copper, Zinc, Nickel, Cobalt, Antimony and Tungsten.This press release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address future exploration drilling, exploration activities and events or developments that the Company expects, are forward looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include exploitation and exploration successes, continued availability of financing, and general economic, market or business conditions.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.Great Atlantic Resource Corp.888 Dunsmuir Street - Suite 888, Vancouver, B.C., V6C 3K4SOURCE: Great Atlantic Resources Corp.
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WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) received a $39,000 charitable grant from KeyBank Foundation, the charitable foundation of KeyBank N.A during the bank's Volunteer Build Day held earlier today on Chestnut Street in Holyoke. The donation assists Habitat's green building practices supporting environmental stewardship program, which strives to build homes utilizing a variety of environmentally friendly, green building practices to have a positive impact on the environment while providing homeowners with energy-efficient homes."We appreciate KeyBank's donation to our environmental stewardship campaign, which will allow us to incorporate more green building and energy-efficient products into our home designs and helping us to provide our partner families with more environmentally-friendly homes and lower utility costs," said Aimee Giroux, GSHFH executive director.Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) builds safe, decent, and affordable homes that allow families to build stronger foundations that create a more stable future for themselves and their families. Through construction utilizing community volunteers, the organization provides low-income families with the opportunity of affordable homeownership or needed repairs on a home they already own. Habitat for Humanity educates families about financial asset building, the value of good credit, and budgeting by requiring families to complete first-time home buyer and financial literacy education. They then work with the family, community volunteers, and workforce development partners to construct and/or repair the homes incorporating green building practices that provide energy cost savings for homeowners."At KeyBank, supporting affordable housing solutions is core to our community investment strategy and how we help our communities thrive," said KeyBank Branch Manager Ramon (Tito) Albizu, who leads the bank's Holyoke branch. "We are pleased to support Habitat for Humanity's mission philanthropically, and as members of the Holyoke community, we are particularly proud to volunteer our time to help make the dream of homeownership a reality for a Holyoke family." KeyBank has seven bank branches serving greater Springfield. This foundation grant is part of Key's philanthropic support to creating safe, healthy, affordable and inclusive communities throughout its service area.About Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity: GSHFH is dedicated to strengthening communities by empowering low-income families to change their lives and the lives of future generations through homeownership and home preservation opportunities. Since 1987, Greater Springfield Habitat has built or repaired 120 homes in Hampden County.About KeyBank Foundation: KeyBank Foundation serves to fulfill KeyBank's purpose to help clients and communities thrive, and its mission is to support organizations and programs that prepare people for thriving futures. The Foundation's mission is advanced through three funding priorities - neighbors, education, and workforce - and through community service. To provide meaningful philanthropy that transforms lives, KeyBank Foundation listens carefully to understand the unique characteristics and needs of its communities and then backs solutions with targeted philanthropic investments. KeyBank Foundation is a nonprofit charitable foundation, funded by KeyCorp.About KeyCorp:KeyCorp's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $188 billion at September 30, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/ . KeyBank is Member FDIC.Media contacts: Habitat for Humanity: Brandy O'Brien, Marketing and Communications Manager | (413) 739-5503 | obrien@ habitatspringfield.org NAME/TITLE | TEL NO. | EMAIL KeyBank: Karen Crane, Communications Manager | 203-789-2752 | karen_crane@ keybank.com (from left) KeyBank branch employees Janis Deynes, Sharia Coley, Josh Flores, Norbert Grant III, Priya Tater, Tom Morace, Jeff Guyott, Kendle Taylor, and Holyoke Branch Manager Tito Ramon who presented the grant check to Habitat for Humanity's Executive Director Aimee Giroux (far left).View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: KeyBankWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybankEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: KeyBank
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ANAHEIM, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Here To Serve Holding Corp. (OTC PINK:HTSC) (the "Company" or "HTSC"), is pleased to announce that it has entered into a definitive Share Exchange and Reorganization Agreement for the acquisition of DCE Construction, Inc., doing business as Mesa Garage Doors ("MESA"), a Southern California-based leader in home improvement solutions focused on the sale, service and installation of garage doors, entry door and custom gates. Subject to satisfaction of certain closing conditions, the acquisition is expected to close in November 2023.The agreement marks a significant milestone for both companies as they prepare to embark on a new chapter.Below are some key highlights of the transaction:1. Share Acquisition: At closing, HTSC will acquire all outstanding shares of MESA in exchange for the issuance of 1.4 billion restricted shares of HTSC common stock to the shareholders of MESA in a tax-free reorganization.2. Preferred Stock Acquisition: At closing, MESA's shareholders will also purchase all Series A and Series C Preferred Stock of HTSC, all of which are held by an affiliate of HTSC.3. At closing, HTSC's current officers will resign, and Dwight Esnard (CEO of MESA) and Michael Layman (CFO of MESA) will be appointed as HTSC's new CEO and CFO, respectively.4. At closing, HTSC's current directors will also resign, and MESA's directors, Dwight Esnard and Michael Layman will be appointed as the sole members of HTSC's board.5. Ownership Equalization: At closing, Paul Riss, CEO of HTSC, will receive an additional 43,200,000 shares of HTSC common stock as consideration for the cancellation of certain debt owed to Mr. Riss, maintaining a 4% total ownership stake in HTSC post-closing. Pursuant to the agreement, dependent upon the value of HTSC's common stock one year from the closing date, Mr. Riss may also be entitled to receive certain additional shares of HTSC common stock.6. Spin-out of Legacy Business: In connection with, and as promptly as possible after closing of the MESA acquisition, it is anticipated that HTSC's legacy business and subsidiaries will be spun-out into a separate public entity to the holders of HTSC's common stock as of a record date prior to closing of the acquisition. The Company has filed the necessary Issuer Company-Related Action Notification with FINRA in connection with the spin-out, seeking a record date of November 2, 2023. Details regarding the anticipated spin-out will follow in a separate disclosure.7. After closing of the MESA acquisition, the Company will promptly file an Issuer Company-Related Action Notification with FINRA to complete a name and ticker symbol change to better align HTSC's name with its new business.Until the MESA acquisition closes, HTSC and MESA will remain separate, independent companies and will operate as such.Executive Commentary:Paul Riss, outgoing CEO of HTSC, stated, "This strategic transaction with MESA fortifies our market position and sets the stage for significant growth. I am confident that Dwight Esnard, our incoming CEO, will steer the Company to unprecedented success." Financial Valuation and Outlook:MESA obtained an independent valuation as of July 31, 2023 showing that the company has an enterprise value of approximately $41 million. MESA generated unaudited gross revenue of approximately $20.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, and is on track to achieve revenue of approximately $23.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. By 2025, MESA projects a revenue target of $30 million, with a 10% year-over-year growth rate anticipated for 2026.MESA Operational Enhancements:Technological upgrades and workforce training have improved closing ratios, while a high-impact marketing campaign has boosted average sales and appointment success rates. MESA has plans to horizontally diversify into other home improvement areas in addition to garage door installation/repairs, as well as grow through an aggressive M&A campaign of strategically aligned businesses throughout the US.Financial Audits and Transparency:MESA is currently undergoing a two-year audit by a PCAOB-registered audit firm that is expected to be complete in the near term. HTSC has had a PCAOB audit for the past two years. The Company plans to register as a reporting company with the Securities and Exchange Commission after the audit work is completed.Closing Remarks:Dwight Esnard, incoming CEO, commented, "This agreement marks a pivotal moment for MESA as we transition into a public company. We are committed to delivering significant value to our stakeholders and believe we are poised for a period of dynamic growth and innovation." About Here To Serve Holding Corp.Here to Serve Holding Corp. ("HTSC") utilizes a two-pronged approach in its business strategy to profit from de-carbonization. It invests in properties containing metals for electric vehicle batteries, and it sells subscriptions for a real-time AWS-based software platform for electric building systems. One subsidiary, Fortune Nickel and Gold Inc. ("Fortune"), explores for battery metals. Fortune owns 190 mining claims in the mineral-rich Timmins Mining District in Ontario, Canada. It targets the growing demand for class one nickel from the electric vehicle battery sector. Fortune has received exploration permits to drill in the townships of Gowan, Beck, Ottaway and Lennox. A second subsidiary, ICF Industries Inc. ("ICF"), provides real-time energy measurement services to more than 100 building systems. Buildings and municipalities increasingly seek to take advantage of low carbon electric infrastructure. ICF provides the cloud-based measurement and reporting tools that allow buildings and communities to see the impact of their decisions to create a long-term low-carbon impact.About DCE Construction, Inc. (dba Mesa)Founded over 30 years ago, MESA ( www.mesagaragedoors.com) is a Southern California leader in the otherwise highly fragmented business of sales, installation, and service for garage doors. Over these 30 years, MESA has serviced well over a half million customers utilizing its own staff of installers, technicians, and repair employees. With a strong reputation and extensive customer base, MESA has leveraged its financial strength, scalability, operations and service call center and professional management to become one of the largest garage door specialty companies in the United States. While MESA's current corporate name certainly implies garage doors, the Company has expanded over the years to include other related installations and services for entry doors, custom wood gates, and garage door openers and is planning additional expansion over the coming
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Doctors cite the platform's doctor-majority board composition and proprietary Power Through Partnership System as key factors in joining one of the fastest-growing MSOs for oral and maxillofacial surgery practices.SOUTHLAKE, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Allied OMS is the only doctor-governed MSO for top-tier OMS practices. Since its formation in 2020 by DuneGlass Capital and founding practices Fort Worth Oral Surgery in Texas and Evergreen Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Colorado, the platform has added 30 independent practices, growing to 65 doctors in 12 states across the US in just three years.Brian Hamilton, Allied OMS's Chief Development Officer, said that partnerships ticked up significantly in 2022 and 2023 as the platform cemented its reputation for attracting the nation's leading practices to its doctor-centric management structure, and its immediate impact on financial performance. The platform doubled in revenue and EBITDA, and on average, new practices experienced a 20% increase in profitability after joining the network. Mr. Hamilton added, "Our rapid growth is a direct result of our Power Through Partnership System. Our doctors get an ally with the expertise to seamlessly manage all the financial and administrative functions that drive better economics, better EBITDA, and longer-term profitability, so they can stay focused on best-in-class patient outcomes." Brian Hamilton, Chief Development Officer of Allied OMS, says practices experience a 20% increase in profitability after joining the platform.Allied OMS is owned by the doctors in the network and governed by the industry's only doctor-majority board. The board is comprised of six doctors, including Jonathon Jundt, DDS, MD, FACS, and Chief of Surgery at Evergreen Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, who also serves as the platform's Chief Medical Officer. The board is anchored by parent company DuneGlass Capital founders Dan Hosler and Ryan Graham, who serve as Allied OMS's CEO and COO, respectively. Together they bring more than 30 years of senior healthcare private equity and investment strategy expertise, guiding the platform's practice management and growth strategy, and managing the executive leadership team in key functional roles including HR, Finance and Accounting, Marketing, Operations, and Data Optimization. The result is greater negotiating power, more equitable contracts, and immediate efficiencies that optimize practice value and drive scalable growth. Doctors remain in control of clinical decision-making and patient care and gain access to cutting-edge best practices from like-minded doctors committed to the highest safety and quality standards. In addition to the 75% doctor-majority board, 100% of Allied OMS's Management Committees are chaired by doctors in the network.Jonathon Jundt, DDS, MD, FACS, Allied founder, and Chief Medical Officer, says Allied OMS doctors are empowered to stay at the forefront of technological advances and innovation in patient care.CEO Dan Hosler attributes their exponential growth in a highly competitive environment to the appeal of the founding vision: a doctor-centric governance and decision-making body backed by unparalleled private equity and operating expertise, saying, "The persistent trend toward consolidation in OMS created a need for a partnership that was not focused solely on size. Our system goes beyond traditional private equity by ensuring the interests of all stakeholders are aligned, providing doctors with better economics at multiple intervals, and creating transparency in all facets of the business model." Dan Hosler, CEO and founder of Allied OMS, attributes the platform's rapid growth to the appeal of the platform's founding vision: a doctor-centric governance and decision-making body backed by unparalleled private equity expertise.COO Ryan Graham adds, "Our promise is that whether you have just graduated, or have been practicing for decades, this partnership will provide greater fulfillment for you as a surgeon and an industry leader." Ryan Graham, COO and founder of Allied OMS, notes that surgeons at every stage of their career will benefit from Allied's Power Through Partnership System.As part of ongoing development efforts, the Allied OMS Board holds regular events for residents and associates, connecting them with experienced doctors in leadership positions at Allied OMS and in the OMS field. New joiners to the platform cite this access and opportunity to learn from and collaborate with leading surgeons across the network as another core differentiator, and a significant reason for choosing Allied OMS over other networks.Founding doctor, board member, and Recruitment Committee Chair David Kostohryz, DDS, MD, believes that "This level of engagement and collaboration appeals to the forward-looking doctors we want as our partners. Our model teaches both new and established doctors to be shareholders in the business, and to be purposefully involved in shaping the future of our specialty." Dr. Kostohryz practices at Fort Worth Oral Surgery and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.David Kostohryz, DDS, MD, founder of Allied OMS, says their model teaches both new and established doctors to be shareholders in the business and be purposefully involved in shaping the future of OMS.Allied OMS has quickly risen to prominence in a crowded field of long-established DSOs across the US. In August, Allied OMS was recognized by Becker's Dental + DSO Review in their 2023 list of DSOs to Know, a competitive national ranking of DSOs and MSOs in dental and oral and maxillofacial surgery."We are especially pleased by the broader industry's response to a governance model that emphasizes quality standards and patient safety," says Dr. Jundt. "Our doctors are empowered to stay at the forefront of technological advances and innovation in patient care - including AI and data-based decision making - and our emphasis on sharing our knowledge and best practices benefits the entire field, ensuring a strong pipeline of next-generation surgeons and doctors." About Allied OMS and the Doctor Equity MSO PlatformAllied OMS is a doctor-owned, doctor-led, and doctor-governed management services organization in the oral and maxillofacial surgery space that combines the best of private practice with the best of private equity.Collectively owned and governed by network doctors and veterans from private equity and management consulting, Allied OMS leverages decades of experience building and exiting platform businesses in the healthcare industry, providing doctors with management tools that maximize practice value.Comprised of practices that focus on clinical excel
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NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / CoviaEven after 22 years at Covia, I can't help but feel inspired and motivated by the internal fortitude and talent of my fellow Team Members. From navigating uncharted territory during down markets and mergers to establishing solid internal structures and foundations, I am incredibly proud to be a part of this team and can't wait to see what the future brings.A Drive to ServeFrom a young age, I was always drawn to service. Many of my family members, including my brother, father, and several great uncles served in the US military. This desire led me to join the ROTC during my undergraduate studies at West Virginia University.I graduated in May of 1992 and was commissioned as second lieutenant in the United States Army at Fort Lee, Virginia.I spent one year active-duty before spending the rest of my 13-year career in the US Army reserves. The military gave me so much - a global family, structure, discipline, a healthy lifestyle, and the ability to multitask. All traits that would help guide me professionally and personally - especially as life threw obstacles my way.In 2004, I was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. At the same time, my second child was on the way, and I was being called up from the Army reserves for deployment to Iraq. Due to my condition, I was medically disqualified and was medically discharged from the military. Leaving the military forced me to reconsider my plans and goals. While I still had a desire to serve, I had to change my focus to my civilian life.At the time I was heartbroken. Thinking back on it now, though, I am reminded of lyrics from an old Garth Brooks song, "thank God for unanswered prayers." While it drastically changed my life plan at the time, it allowed me to focus on my young family and my civil-ian career. As I reflect, I can confidently say that I'm grateful for the challenges l was able to face and overcome. Because of this, I learned to take life as it comes - a skill that has helped me thrive in my career.Leading by ExampleI began working at Covia in November of 2001. I started off as a generalist, selling into the glass, ceramic, foundry, energy and refractory industry in the Northeast. I worked in that role for ten years until the energy market began to take off. At that point I was able to take the next step in my career, becoming the head of the field sales team for our energy busi-ness.In this role, it is my job to ensure Covia has complete coverage in all current and emerging basins - making sure we are maximizing movement of volume from our energy sand plants. I spend a lot of my time focusing on the market and making sure our key accounts have adequate, in-depth coverage.In addition to my sales responsibilities, I am also a member of Covia's Senior Leadership Team. While I may not be a fan of titles, it is my job to inspire my team - encouraging them to grow into the best versions of themselves. I have always found this to be far more pro-ductive than "managing" people. I like to think that being a good leader is about being ap-proachable and kind - giving equal respect and attention to every Team Member regard-less of position, and putting in the hard work alongside my team.From a strategy standpoint, Covia is doing better now than ever before. I am impressed by how adaptable and strategic our team has become in recent years. I love my job and have enjoyed watching our strategy evolve over time to best serve our clients.Strengthening BondsLooking back at my time at Covia, one accomplishment stands out among the rest. Years ago, our team was working on securing a particular contract. We had worked with this cus-tomer once before, but the terms of the contract were rather loose. Our team wanted to redefine the relationship - ensuring it was beneficial for both parties.After an extended series of difficult conversations and negotiations, it felt as though the deal was going to fall through. Luckily, we were able to help secure a much tighter, more favorable contract with the customer- strengthening our overall relationship. I attribute this success to our collaborative, customer focused approach, using clear, level-headed com-munication.I am incredibly proud of the evolution of that relationship and how strong a partnership we helped to form. We turned what could have been the loss of a valuable customer into be-ing their number one material supplier.Reaching New HeightsCovia has changed immensely since I began my career. I am impressed by how far we have come and the foundation that every Team Member has helped to create.I am thrilled about the development of Covia's first Veterans Network within the organiza-tion. I am looking forward to helping establish a community for veterans, by veterans. I look forward to sharing experiences, but also creating benefits for the organization and our communities.To learn more about how Covia provides an exceptional workplace experience and helps Team Members thrive personally and professionally, visit our 2022 ESG Report.View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Covia on 3 blmedia.com.Contact Info:Spokesperson: CoviaWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/coviaEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: Covia
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FORT WORTH, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Hannover House, Inc. (OTCPINK:HHSE) is hosting the world premiere screening and red-carpet event for the family appeal motion picture, "WILDFIRE: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse." Media are invited to attend this sold-out event for red carpet photos and interviews with principal cast and crew members. The event is Thursday, November 2nd at the Isis Theatre in Fort Worth, Texas. Red Carpet set up opens at 5:30-pm, and talent will arrive beginning at 6:15-pm for the 7:00-p;m screening.Broadcast media, stills photographers, journalists, bloggers and specialty publications are invited to attend and to meet and speak with the film's creators and stars. The Isis Theatre is located in Downtown / Cowtown of Fort Worth, at 2401 N. Main Street, Fort Worth, TX 76164.For confirmed red carpet positions, contact event manager Desiree Garnier at 479-283-8318, or Desiree@ HannoverHouse.com "Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse"MEDIA ALERT & TIP SHEETRed-Carpet Sneak-Peek Preview EventConfirmed attendees include: Chevel Shepherd (Winner of NBC's "THE VOICE"), MoBrings Plenty ("YELLOWSTONE"), Michael Martin Murphey (Country music legend andwriter of the #1 worldwide hit song that inspired this film), director Eric Parkinson, and Special Cast Guests from the Martin Scorsese hit, "KILLERS OF THE FLOWER MOON". There will be a special live musical performance featuring Chevel Shepherd and Michael Martin Murphey immediatelyDownloadable IMAGES and BROADCAST Clips are available at EPK.TV . Additional information is available at www.WildfireMovie.com Title Fact SheetWildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse2023 Production, Family-Drama, 105 Minutes, Color, Dolby Stereo, not yet rated.(anticipated MPAA Rating of PG) - Written and Directed by ERIC PARKINSONStudio listing: HANNOVER HOUSEOfficial Movie Website: https://wildfiremovie.com/ One Liner:A young girl finds solace to her grief when she befriends a wild horse in this uplifting film, whichwas inspired by the hit song by Michael Martin Murphey and a Cherokee legend.Synopsis:Inspired by the # 1 worldwide hit song by Michael Martin Murphey - and the legend of the Cherokee ghost horse - WILDFIRE tells a story of redemption and forgiveness as a young girl deals with her guilt following the tragic death of her parents. With the family facing financial ruin, the survivors move from Texas to Oklahoma to live with the Grandma Bette on her horse farm outside of Tahlequah. Emotionally lost and distraught, young Samantha finds peace from the attention she receives from a mysterious wild horse that seems to be following her as she walks home from school each day. Eventually, Samantha is able to contact and ride the horse - and with training help from a champion rodeo cowgirl - she enters competitive rodeo barrel racing and begins to accept her new situation. But her guilt remains, as Samantha hides the dark secret that she feels responsible for her parent's death. She cannot forgive herself. With the help of a local Cherokee spiritual leader and the wisdom of the town's local pastor,Samantha comes to realize a greater truth and a solace to her worries. Was the horse real? Or was it a spiritual messenger to help guide Samantha? Wildfire: The Legend of the Cherokee Ghost Horse combines a tale of native spirituality with Christian doctrine and values to create an enchanting film for all audiences.PRINCIPAL CREATIVE TEAM:Director: ERIC PARKINSON - ("Future Shock")Producers: CHRISTIAN LARGE - ("Cowboys of Cannabis")ERIC PARKINSON - ("Grizzly Mountain")KYLE MARTENS - ("Topper")Writers: ERIC PARKINSON - ("Savage Land")MIKE SNYDER - ("Strike a Pose")Editor: ANDREW BOWCOCK - ("Eclipse")Composers: MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY & TRAVIS FITECinematographers: ANDREW PARKE, BRETT REYNOLDSCam. Ops Team: JOSHUA IRWIN, DAVID HUFF, SACHA THOMASExec. Producers: MORTEN STISEN, DAN SCHOLEFIELD, JONATHAN CHENG, KEITHBLASINGAME, MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY, MIKE SNYDER and DR. YOOJIN LEE WILLIAMSPRINCIPAL CAST:CHEVEL SHEPHERD - Winner of NBC's "THE VOICE" - in the lead role of Samantha Nichols, a 16-year-old girl from Plano, Texas, who finds her life completely upended after the sudden, tragic death of her parents.ANNE HECHE - One of the top screen stars of the 1990's and 2000's, Anne brings her charm to the role of Diana Jones, the horse trainer who helps Samantha learn competitive rodeo. WILDFIRErepresents Anne's final feature film release, due to her tragic death by a car accident in August 2022.MO BRINGS PLENTY - This popular Native American actor is best known for his role on five seasons of " Yellowstone." Moses portrays Udeli, a Cherokee spiritual leader who helps Samantha find a path for her life.ADRIAN PAUL - Star of the hit television series, "Highlander," Adrian brings a stable sensibility and charm to his role as Parker Nichols, father to Samantha and a tech industry invention wizard.MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHEY - Country music legend and writer of the #1 worldwide hit song (1975) that inspired this film, Murphey portrays Pastor Micah, the town's religious leader andcommunity pillar.OLIVIA SLATTON-FITE - Olivia enlivens every scene in this impressive screen debut, including the performance of her original song, "The Land." She is now working extensively now a high fashion model.THESA LOVING - A veteran of the New York Actor's Studio, Thesa has the performance skills to handle the difficult role as Grandma Bette, who takes in her two grandchildren and Aunt Susan to live on her horse farm.CARA JADE MYERS - Cara's stunning performance in Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" has inspired awards chatter - and she brings her abundant screen charm to the role of Shari Nichols,Samantha's mom.For More Information Contact:Desiree Garnier Desiree@ HannoverHouse.com479-283-8318 SOURCE: Hannover House
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, October 27. Hyrasia One (a subsidiary of SVEVIND Energy Group, which produces green hydrogen in Kazakhstan) and Semurg Invest (the owner and operator of the Sarzha Multifunctional Marine Terminal at Port Kuryk, Mangystau region of Kazakhstan) signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) to ship green hydrogen and ammonia through Port Kuryk, Trend reports.

By signing the Memorandum of Understanding, both parties agreed to collaborate closely in order to connect the green hydrogen and ammonia project Hyrasia One to Sarzha MMT at Port Kuryk, as well as to develop a new logistics focal point along the Global Gateway route in the Caspian Sea region.

Up to 2 million tons of green hydrogen or 11 million tons of green ammonia are expected to be supplied to worldwide markets from the Mangystau region in south-western Kazakhstan in 2032. The MoC states that both firms intend to expand and run Port Kuryk as the primary terminal for storing, transporting, and exporting Hyrasia One's trading commodities along the Caspian Sea route.

The signing by Wolfgang Kropp, CEO of Hyrasia One, and Madina Anet, Business Development Director of Semurg Invest, was attended by Margulan Baimukhan, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Kingdom of Belgium, and Marat Karabayev, the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

"This arrangement allows us to expand our transportation capacities and global shipping options. The Trans-Caspian route, in particular, is critical for Europe. The route has been confirmed by Deutsche Bahn engineering and consultancy to be capable of transporting up to 11 million tons per year from Hyrasia One's site to the EU.," noted Wolfgang Kropp.

Other transport routes by train or combined rail or ship are also feasible and under further review. In order to reach other potential markets, such as Asia, the Middle East, and others, the establishment of Port Kuryk as a global hydrogen terminal is also enormously important, Kropp said.

To implement the MoC, the port infrastructure must include adequate capacity for transshipment of up to 11 million tons of ammonia per year. In this regard, Semurg Invest plans to build a dedicated terminal in Port Kuryk.

"We are confident that this collaboration agreement will help to improve Kuryk Port's growth potential, and Semurg Invest is thrilled to add a new terminal project to the Sarzha MMT portfolio. Semurg Invest's first green hydrogen/ammonia export terminal in the Caspian Sea and along the Trans-Capian route, along with the Hyrasia One project, will play a vital part in this value chain, putting Kazakhstan on the map of world-scale green initiatives," said Madina Anet, Business Development Director of Semurg Invest.

Hyrasia One, together with Deutsche Bahn AG, has already completed an analysis of possible routes for exporting products to Europe and Asia. Experts have labeled the Trans-Caspian route to Europe, through the ports in Kazakhstan (Kuryk), Azerbaijan, and Georgia, as one of the most promising. Its total length will be over 8,700 km, and the delivery speed will be 25 days.

The Middle Corridor is a transportation and trade route that connects Asia and Europe, passing through several countries in the region. It is an alternative route to the traditional Northern Corridor and Southern Corridor.

The route starts in China and crosses Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then passes through the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe.

The Middle Corridor offers a land route that connects the eastern parts of Asia, including China, with Europe, bypassing the longer maritime routes.
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LONDON, UK / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / National Private Investigators (NPI), the UK's foremost authority on security solutions, is thrilled to announce its newly updated bug sweeping service. This announcement comes at a crucial time, amid rising concerns around personal privacy, corporate espionage and advancements in illicit surveillance technologies.An Uptick in Demand Reflects Modern ConcernsIn a time when headlines scream about surveillance scandals and data breaches, bug sweeping services have become more of a necessity than a novelty. Gone are the days when only secret agents had to worry about being spied upon. In today's interconnected world, the threat of unauthorised surveillance looms large over corporations and individuals alike.For businesses, particularly those in the medium and large categories, safeguarding sensitive data is paramount. The modern office is a jungle of information, ripe for the picking by disgruntled employees or conniving competitors.These insiders or outsiders may deploy listening devices to harvest confidential data, from client lists to proprietary technologies. In some scenarios, even unhappy employees could turn into data thieves, posing a critical threat to the company's security posture.The risk isn't just theoretical. Firms in various sectors-ranging from finance to technology-have turned to professional technical countermeasure services to ensure their conference rooms or executive suites aren't doubling as information goldmines for the unscrupulous.The private citizens are at risk, too. Whether you've recently ended a relationship or have concerns about a possibly intrusive landlord, your home should be your sanctuary. It's disconcerting to even entertain the idea that someone might invade that privacy.Thankfully, bug sweeping isn't just a corporate affair; National Private Investigators offers home sweeps to debug your residence, ensuring that the only eyes and ears in your home are your own.Who's Knocking on Your Firewall: Corporate InterestsFinancial institutions, tech giants, and esteemed law firms have become increasingly vigilant in protecting sensitive information. But it's not just about fortifying your digital realm; it's about ensuring there are no physical breaches, either.Our technical countermeasure sweeps address this gap by identifying both digital and tangible threats, ensuring a comprehensive security strategy.Government and Public FiguresIt's not just corporations that have shown heightened interest in bug sweeping. Government agencies, politicians, and celebrities have also turned to us to maintain the integrity of their personal and professional lives. If you're in the public eye, your private matters should remain precisely that: private.Technological Advancements Take Centre StageIn response to evolving security threats, NPI is thrilled to announce upgrades in our professional technical countermeasure services.Our newly incorporated electronic sweeps are engineered to detect an array of concealed eavesdropping devices, elevating our service quality to unparalleled levels. This isn't the bug sweeping of yesteryear; this is state-of-the-art technology deployed to ensure your absolute privacy.Unwavering Commitment to Legal ComplianceNavigating the complex legal landscape of surveillance is no small feat. With statutes such as the UK's Investigatory Powers Act 2016, it's imperative to be vigilant. NPI is pleased to confirm that our bug sweeping services are meticulously designed to align with existing legal frameworks.Our procedures are more than just effective; they're legally sound, ensuring our clients' security measures don't inadvertently cross legal boundaries.Cybersecurity: Addressing the Elephant in the RoomAs cybersecurity threats become increasingly ubiquitous, NPI recognises the importance of a multi-faceted approach to security. Our expanded service offering now seamlessly incorporates cybersecurity measures, providing clients with a comprehensive package that addresses both physical and digital security risks.In today's interconnected world, it's not enough to sweep for bugs; one must also safeguard against digital vulnerabilities.Real-world Statistics: What Do We Find?NPI is committed to transparency and efficacy. Our recent data reveals that our "emergency sweeps" in business and governmental sectors have a find rate between 2% and 5%. While these numbers might appear modest, they are indicative of the relief and assurance we bring to our clientele.In domestic environments, notably in residential and matrimonial sweeps, the rate of discovery is significantly higher. The key takeaway? NPI is not merely in the business of identifying surveillance threats but effectively neutralising them, thus restoring our clients' peace of mind.Time to ActThe line between privacy and exposure has never been so fragile. Take the smart step today by choosing National Private Investigators' bug sweeping services. For inquiries or to schedule an appointment, contact us on 020 7459 4526.CONTACT NAME: Jack CharmanPHONE: 020 7459 4526EMAIL: enquiries@ nationalprivateinvestigators.co.uk SOURCE: National Private Investigators
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The Partnership Will Enhance Procurement and Transform the Higher Education ExperienceDENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Pathify, the exclusive centralized user experience hub for higher education, has partnered with the Foundation for California Community Colleges CollegeBuys program to simplify the procurement and purchasing processes while providing cost savings to more than 100 institutions.CollegeBuys enables California higher education institutions to streamline lengthy procurement processes by offering legally compliant agreements with pre-vetted partners, now including Pathify.The partnership standardizes pricing agreements, ensuring colleges receive "most favored nation" pricing, terms and service agreements. This helps colleges receive competitive pricing and favorable terms. To date, the CollegeBuys program has achieved savings exceeding $500 million for California Community Colleges, with over $34 million reinvested to fund scholarships for 34,000 students.With faster, easier access and pre-negotiated costs, Foundation for California Community Colleges partner campuses can seamlessly acquire Pathify to address the significant user experience gap in the center of the higher education digital ecosystem. This partnership will empower colleges to deliver a personalized user experience that integrates technology, content, communications, and people."Given the success we've had working with a large number of public institutions in California, this partnership makes enormous sense for all parties," said Pathify's Chief Revenue Officer Matt Hammond. "We're excited to make the purchasing process far simpler for schools through a contract vehicle that actually supports student scholarships." Pathify offers highly personalized experiences for users at every point in their journey. The Engagement Hub promotes system-agnostic integrations, collaborative social groups, personalized tasks, and multi-channel communication, offering a seamless web and mobile experience.About CollegeBuysCollegeBuys is the Foundation for California Community Colleges' system-wide procurement vehicle that leverages the buying power of California's 116 community colleges to secure and offer discounts of up to 85 percent on a wide range of educational products - from industry-leading software and technology to high-quality office and classroom furniture.For more information, visit https://purchasing.collegebuys.org/vendor/path-education-inc-pathify/ About PathifyObsessed with making great technology while developing incredible long-term relationships with customers, Pathify remains hyper-focused on creating stellar experiences across the entire student lifecycle - from prospect to alumni. Delivering cloud-based, integration-friendly software designed to drive engagement, Pathify pushes personalized information, content, and resources to the right people, at the right time - on any device. Led by former higher ed executives, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders, the team at Pathify focuses every day on the values Impact, Wit, Contrast, Technique and Care.Learn more at pathify.com Contact InformationMegan Kratzman Head of Marketing megan.kratzman@pathify.com (602) 400-4443SOURCE: Pathify
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 16:00:55

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Position Green, an independent pure-play sustainability partner, announces the appointment of Johanna Clarin as Managing Director, USA, and Jason Stanley as Senior Director of AdvisoryNEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Position Green - the independent, pure-play sustainability partner with offices across Scandinavia, the UK, the Benelux, and the United States - has made several strategic senior appointments to support its continued expansion in the world's largest and most diverse market. Now with three offices in the U.S., New York City, NY, Houston and Austin, Texas, Position Green commands a strong position to provide sustainability solutions to companies across a range of sectors, including shipping, energy, infrastructure and finance, helping fuel the journey of competitive businesses, from compliance to sustainable impact.Position Green Johanna Clarin will lead Position Green's operations in the U.S., executing on the company's ambitious growth plans and delivering on its continued expansion into new sectors. A strategy, technology, and sustainability consultant by background, Johanna has been with Position Green since 2020, seeing the company grow from just 15 to now over 330 employees. Following a number of key advisory and commercial development roles, Johanna was promoted to Managing Director, USA, in August 2023.As Senior Director, Jason Stanley will head Position Green's already strong strategic advisory team, helping companies make sustainability practices tangible, measurable, and actionable through deep sector expertise, and through its proprietary Sustainability Management Suite of software products. Australian by birth, Jason attended both the University of St. Thomas in Houston and Texas A&M University, and for more than 25 years has worked in the maritime and energy sectors, with a strong focus on sustainability initiatives and transformation, as well marketing and investor relations.Johanna and Jason are supported by a multidisciplinary team of technology product specialists and sustainability consultants across these three offices, with recently expanded operations in New York City. These strategic appointments are a clear signal of Position Green's commitment to this large, complex and diverse market and its ambitious growth plans. The company is seeing significant demand for its sustainability solutions in the U.S., and the new team will be responsible for meeting this demand and growing Position Green's market share.Daniel Gadd, Co-Founder and CEO of Position Green, said: "We are excited to welcome this experienced and talented team to Position Green. Their combined expertise and experience will be invaluable as we expand our operations into the United States and continue to grow our business.The expansion into the United States is a key part of Position Green's global growth strategy. The company sees the U.S. market as a significant opportunity for growth, given the country's ambitious renewable energy targets and the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions." Johanna Clarin, Managing Director, U.S. added: "We believe that the United States is one of the most attractive markets in the world for sustainable practices. We are committed to investing in the U.S. market and helping our customers to achieve their sustainability goals." For inquiries and further information, please contact:Sandro Pardo at sandro.pardo@positiongreen.com or at +1 646 327 9412About Position GreenPosition Green is a pure play sustainability partner operating out of Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen, Malmo, Gothenburg, New York, Houston, Austin, and London. With a unique offering that combines cutting-edge ESG software with specialized advisory services, e-learning and independent assurance, Position Green's full-cycle solutions fuel the journey of competitive businesses - from compliance to sustainable impact. A versatile ESG product suite and data-driven insights enable enterprises and investors to cut through complexity and become more seamless, transparent and action-oriented.Position Green's mission is to revolutionize how businesses integrate sustainability - in pursuit of a sustainable, fair and resilient future. As of October 2023, Position Green has over 600 clients worldwide, including more than 50 GP/LPs, and more than 330 employees across the U.S., Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the UK, and Belgium.Learn more at positiongreen.com Contact InformationSandro PardoMarketing Managersandro.pardo@positiongreen.com+1 6463279412SOURCE: Position Green
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 17:40:12

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PRINCETON, NJ / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Princeton Spine & Joint Center (PSJC) is the premier non-surgical spine and orthopedic medical practice in the Northeast. The dedicated medical professionals at Princeton Spine & Joint Center (PSJC) are driven by a profound passion for restoring their patients' well-being and enabling them to lead pain-free, active lives. These physicians acknowledge the privilege of working in a field where they can witness immediate, positive transformations in their patients' lives.The team asserts, "Patients frequently come to our office after enduring years of suffering, and it is profoundly gratifying to provide them with relief, often on their very first visit. Guiding individuals towards a life free from pain and the reliance on medication is a reward beyond measure." They emphasize that once you've experienced the life-changing impact of alleviating someone's pain, it becomes a compelling calling to continue making a meaningful difference in their lives.Princeton Spine & Joint Center (PSJC) takes great pride in its position as the premier non-surgical spine and orthopedic medical practice in the Northeast. The doctors at PSJC are not merely practitioners; they are recognized thought leaders in their respective fields. They leverage state-of-the-art technology for diagnosis and treatment, further distinguishing their practice. However, what truly sets them apart is their unwavering dedication to addressing the unique needs of each patient. They understand that every individual is distinct, with specific requirements, and this patient-centric ethos underpins their approach.Moreover, PSJC's physicians have contributed significantly to the medical community by editing four comprehensive textbooks on spine, hip, knee, and shoulder pain. These textbooks offer a holistic perspective on medical conditions, combining traditional scientific aspects with real-life case studies. These case studies illuminate the complexities of actual patient experiences, often deviating from textbook norms. It's at this juncture that the art of medicine harmonizes with its science. PSJC's physicians seamlessly blend their profound scientific expertise with a deep understanding of each patient's unique circumstances, ensuring that they are treated as individuals rather than mere sets of symptoms.The doctors at Princeton Spine & Joint Center (PSJC) possess an unparalleled understanding of spine and musculoskeletal medicine, evident through their contributions to these textbooks. However, they acknowledge that the practice of medicine is intrinsically human. Each patient represents more than a medical condition; they are individuals with their own narratives and distinctive needs. Herein lies the hallmark of PSJC's excellence-seamlessly uniting the science of medicine with the art of compassionate patient care.At PSJC, their commitment extends to delivering evidence-based care for spine, joint, muscle, and nerve pain. Additionally, they are at the forefront of pioneering regenerative medicine techniques, offering innovative approaches that facilitate the body's natural healing processes, free from dependency on medication. Ever since they have celebrated their 15th year in the field, their ultimate goal is not merely symptom alleviation but empowering patients to regain their vitality and embrace life to the fullest.Media Contact:Gary F. SantiagoMarketing Managergary.santiago@360digimarketing.com SOURCE: Princeton Spine & Joint Center
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 15:01:51

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HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / SEIDOR, a consultancy specializing in technology services and solutions, renowned as a Platinum partner of SAP and offering a comprehensive portfolio of this technology in the American market, announces its partnership with Mindset Consulting, the global leader in combining extreme usability with various advanced technologies.SEIDOR USA and Mindset Consulting PartnershipThrough this partnership, SEIDOR becomes the first Global SI to package Mindset's S/4 User Experience (UX) and Business Transformation offerings as part of the SEIDOR SAP S/4HANA implementation journey. By focusing on business value and human-centered outcomes at the start of the implementation, SEIDOR's S/4 clients will benefit from faster ROI on their S/4HANA implementation, improved user experience for their teams, and quicker user adoption."SEIDOR's visionary pairing of Mindset's UX innovation and Human-centered services within the SEIDOR S/4 transformation process represents a shift in how organizations should plan and execute major technology updates," said Jonathan Bragg, Vice President of Product. "Too many organizations embark on the transformation to S/4 without considering the details that can make or break the outcome. By incorporating improved UX from the start, many of the pitfalls of a lift and shift transformation can be avoided. The implementations offer faster time to value, are more focused, and the users are happy. It's a win/win/ win." "This partnership with Mindset Consulting will give our customers a comprehensive analysis of both the technical aspects of an ERP implementation and a clear ROI in terms of investment and cashflow by clearly positioning a roadmap of transformation and evolution that will take our clients to the next level," said Diego Dubini, SVP of Sales & Marketing.Customers will benefit from the combination of SEIDOR's award-winning SAP technical implementation skills seamlessly executed with the fuller innovation and transformation value from Mindset's human-centered design and CX/UX solutions for the composed and coordinated delivery of their SAP investments. Customers interested in more details should reach out to Diego Dubini: ddubini@ seidor.com About MindsetSince 2010, Mindset has helped leading global organizations to leverage exceptional user experience (UX) and advanced development to meet today's emerging business demands and to plan and take their next strategic leaps. Mindset's team includes many recognized SAP thought leaders and Mindset's client successes are frequently featured at enterprise software conferences around the globe.The global champion of useability and human-centered business transformation on advanced technology platforms, Mindset hosts the annual EXperts Summit and the EXperts Annual Awards, which focus on best practices and education in these areas.Mindset is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with additional locations in Denver and India. More information can be found at www.mindsetconsulting.com About SEIDORSEIDOR is a technology consulting firm that offers a comprehensive portfolio of solutions and services in innovation, customer experience, ERP, analytics, employee experience, cloud, workplace, and cybersecurity. Among its solutions, SEIDOR stands out as a Platinum partner of SAP and offers a comprehensive portfolio of its solutions in the American market.With revenue of $836 million in 2022 and a workforce of over 8,500 highly qualified professionals, SEIDOR has a direct presence in 45 countries across Europe, Latin America, the United States, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. The consultancy firm is a partner of leading technology leaders. SEIDOR has an extensive presence in the United States, with its headquarters in Houston.Contact InformationMiles Beard Digital Marketing Specialist miles.beard@seidor.com SOURCE: SEIDOR USA
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 15:01:16

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VANCOUVER, WA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Sinceri Senior Living is gearing up for the holiday season. The company's communities are preparing for many different holiday events and looking forward to celebrating over the next few months.This holiday season, Sinceri communities will be opening their doors to local seniors, families, and professional partners by hosting many festive events. Sinceri's first fall nationwide event is a November Door Buster, and many of its communities will be hosting tours and open houses to showcase living spaces, amenities, and services. Attendees of these events will be entered into a drawing for a special holiday gift at participating communities.In December, Sinceri Senior Living is hosting A Sinceri Story: Making Holiday Wishes Come True campaign. This is a month-long event where referral sources nominate staff and customers who would benefit from a holiday surprise. The winning recipients will receive various prizes, giveaways, and "granted wishes" from participating communities.These are a few of the many events that Sinceri communities will be hosting across the nation, and people are encouraged to find a local community near them to take part in the local festivities.The holiday season can be busy and stressful for families and Sinceri is committed to providing a safe and secure home for seniors to celebrate with their peers and families. Moving into a Sinceri community prior to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season allows new residents to acclimate to their new home while simultaneously experiencing the festivities at the community. Sinceri's communities are excited to see new faces and look forward to a joyous holiday season and making new memories.Find a community near you and learn more at https://sinceriseniorliving.com/communities/ About Sinceri Senior Living:Sinceri Senior Living is a premier senior living management company that provides services to seniors in 73 communities and 19 states, serving approximately 4,800 seniors across the U.S. Sinceri Senior Living manages all levels of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing communities. From the legacy of its first dedicated memory care community more than 35 years ago, Sinceri Senior Living has built a reputation for expertly managing senior living properties, including owned and managed facilities, with highly sought personalized care and exceptional, unique programming for residents and their families.Contact InformationMissy Day Vice President of Marketing and Communication missy.day@sincerisl.com (800) 254-9442SOURCE: Sincer Senior Living
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 15:15:45

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Traditional fishery in the Torres Strait hits the world-class benchmark in modern-day sustainable fisheries standards.Original PublicationNEW GUINEA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Papua New Guinea's Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery celebrated their efforts to ensure the health and longevity of the lobster stocks in the Torres Strait Protected Zone at a certification event on Friday 20 October at the Crown Plaza in Port Moresby, PNG.Based in the Torres Strait Protected Zone, the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster fishery stands out for its adherence to original techniques that have minimal impact on marine habitats and non-target species. With a limit of only seven boats and 5-7 fishers on each boat, the operations are recognised as a small-scale and now sustainable fishery. The crew and divers consist of local fishers from Daru Island who embrace the traditional methods of hand harvesting each exquisite shellfish via freediving (a diving method that does not require breathing equipment and instead relies on one long breath-hold) or by hookah (a diving method in which surface-supplied air is provided to a diver via a hose). The methods used require minimal gear and are highly selective, reducing impact on the environment and avoidance of any incidental catch of non-targeted species.Anne Gabriel, MSC Program Director for Oceania and Singapore said: "The leadership shown by Papua New Guinea's Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster fishery should be emulated around the world as a benchmark that meeting world-class standards is not only achievable for small-scale fisheries but necessary. By embracing traditional and sustainable fishing practices, these communities are not only securing their future but protecting a vital part of our planet's ecosystem." Local divers dedicate their lives to this method of fishing, and it is a practice passed on from generation to generation. For the fishing community of Daru Island, the ocean is the lifeblood, and this makes responsible fishing practices crucial for tradition and culture to survive. MSC certification serves as a shining example of how remote communities can achieve sustainability goals while preserving their unique cultural and environmental heritage.Attaining MSC certification, the fishery commits to transparency of its operations and continuous improvements in responsible management. MSC certification highlights the critical importance of sustainable practices and assessment in remote areas like the Torres Strait Protected Zone. These regions are particularly vulnerable to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and whilst the fishery has historically encountered IUU, the journey towards MSC has helped agencies detect and deter IUU risks, leading to greater economic stability for fishers in the region. The involvement of a third-party assessor in the certification process not only ensures impartial evaluation, but it reinforces responsible management and provides additional verification of regional fishery performance.Small-scale and artisanal fisheries often present unique challenges and complexity for assessment teams and certification bodies. Independent leader in third-party certification, verification, and validation for sustainable standards around the world, SCS Global Services, conducted the assessment. SCS has a long record of accomplishment navigating the MSC Standard and Process for small-scale fishery client groups since the certification of the Mexico Baja California Red Rock Lobster in 2004.Jason Swecker, SCS' Managing Director of Seafood says "SCS proudly celebrates the PNG Lobster Fishery for earning MSC certification, showcasing their commitment to sustainable fishing. Leveraging SCS's globally recognized assessment expertise, especially in the western central Pacific, we've helped ensure this certification not only acknowledges their dedication to responsible stewardship of our marine ecosystems but also offers people a sustainable seafood choice. Together, using solid science and mindful management, we're working to improve and protect our global oceans and fishing communities." Honouring the recognition, Sustainable and CSR Director of FIA PNG, Marcelo Hidalgo said, "The Torres Straight Lobster Fishery certification shows the collaboration between the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and The PNG Fishing Industry Association (FIA) of Papua New Guinea. This first-ever small-scale fishery in the Western and Central Pacific shows our commitment to sustainable fishing in Papua New Guinea to the world. This is part of our responsible sourcing policy (RSP) and commitment to improving the small-scale fisheries management plan, providing guaranteed livelihoods in the future, and at the same time we expect to place this valued commodity directly in consumer markets like restaurants".With current markets in China, Hong Kong, and Australia, FIA PNG and NFA aim to open Singaporean and European markets with the MSC certification.The MSC assessment process is independent, fully transparent, and stakeholder-driven with all documentation available at msc.org . MSC certification was possible for the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery thanks to the Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery Stock Assessment undertaken by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), an Australian Government agency responsible for scientific research.Read MoreMedia Contacts: US: Nikki Senseman: nsenseman@ scsglobalservices.com AU: Inday Ford: Inday.ford@msc.org PNG: Nialangis Posanau: alice.posanau@gmail.com Daru Island Villagers fishing make up majority of the crew for the Torres Strait Tropical Rock Lobster Fishery. Photo credit: M. Hidalgo 2023View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from SCS Global Services on 3 blmedia.com Contact Info:Spokesperson: SCS Global ServicesWebsite: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/scs-global-servicesEmail: info@3 blmedia.com SOURCE: SCS Global Services
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Manufacturers can increase performance and optimize operations with Schuler's future press concept, "TRITON"CANTON, MI / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Schuler North America, subsidiary of Schuler Group GmbH, and MetalForming Magazine partner together to present a complimentary webinar, "Three Ways Tiers Can Save 25% in Production Costs." The live webinar will be presented on Wednesday, November 1, at 2:00 PM EST."Metal formers are always looking for new ways to reduce downtime and increase performance, and Industry 4.0 expectations have dramatically intensified these market needs," explains Tiago Vasconcellos, Sales Director of Automotive and Industry at Schuler North America. "Schuler's future press concept, TRITON, is designed to help Tiers incorporate a fully digital and fully integrated press shop that can significantly save in production costs." Schuler introduced its "Press Shop of the Future," key technologies that maximize overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and implement digitalization, earlier this year. TRITON paves the way for Tier manufactures to create their own Press Shop of the Future, as state-of-the-art stamping facilities do not have to be specific to OEMs. All TRITON presses are Industry 4.0-capable and ready for digitalization."The trident, featured in Schuler's TRITON logo, represents the three pillars of these machines: high quality, performance, and technological innovation," states Gurinder Singh, Sales Manager at Schuler North America. "Schuler developed the TRITON concept for mechanical press lines, with or without servo drives, in a modular design that allows for individual adaptations. The various identical parts make for fast and efficient service at a competitive price." Registrants will learn about the technologies, digitalization, and operations behind Schuler's TRITON concept. Technological benefits to be discussed include increased output and availability, faster setup with optimized offline simulation, enhanced flexibility for dies and processes, reduced training time for new workers, lower costs per part, and advanced press diagnostics that improve OEE.Schuler's webinar will be presented by Gurinder Singh. Singh has published numerous technical papers about Schuler technology and presented at various global speaking engagements. He has been a valued employee of Schuler Group for 13 years and is responsible for new equipment sales specific to stamping, cutting, and forging technology.WebsiteRegistration Page: Three Ways Tiers Can Save 25% in Production CostsTRITON WebsiteSchuler North AmericaSchuler's TRITON presses are available with or without servo drive and have all the prerequisites for digital solutions.  SchulerThe standard integrated Ecoform package reduces the need for energy, lubricants, and wear parts.  Schuler###About Schuler Group-www.schulergroup.com Schuler offers customized cutting-edge technology in all areas of forming, from the networked press to press shop planning. In addition to presses, Schuler's products include automation, dies, process know-how, and service for the entire metalworking industry. Schuler's Digital Suite brings together solutions for networking forming technology and is continuously being developed to further improve line productivity and availability. Schuler customers include automotive manufacturers and suppliers, as well as companies in the forging, household appliance, and electrical industries. Schuler presses are minting coins for more than 180 countries. Founded in 1839 at the Goppingen, Germany headquarters, Schuler has approximately 5,000 employees at production sites in Europe, China and the Americas, as well as service companies in more than 40 countries. The company is part of the international technology group ANDRITZ.Schuler's global portfolio of world-renowned brands include BCN (Bliss Clearing Niagara) Technical Services, Muller Weingarten, Beutler, Umformtechnik Erfurt, SMG Pressen, Hydrap Pressen, Wilkins & Mitchell, Beche, Spiertz Presses, Farina Presse, Liebergeld, Peltzer & Ehlers, Schleicher, and Sovema Group.About Schuler North America-www.schulergroup.com Schuler North America (Schuler), headquartered in Canton, Michigan, is the North American subsidiary of Schuler Group. Schuler provides new equipment, spare parts, and a portfolio of lifecycle services for all press systems-including preventative maintenance, press shop design and optimization, turnkey installations, retrofits for existing systems, and localized production and service. Schuler's best-in-class position in the metalworking and materials industry serves automotive manufacturers and tier suppliers, as well as home appliance, electronics, forging, and other industries.SOURCE: Schuler Incorporated Canton
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 21:30:48

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Top Five Conveyor Car Wash Company Celebrates Major Growth MilestoneTHOMASTON, GA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Tidal Wave Auto Spa, one of the nation's fastest-growing express car wash companies, expanded their footprint to 200 locations this week with the opening of three brand-new washes in Greenville, NC, Winchester, KY, and Kinston, NC. This major milestone comes after several busy months of openings for the company, with 26 brand-new locations opened since August."This is an exciting time to be part of the Tidal Wave family," said founder and CEO Scott Blackstock. "Our company has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years, and hitting 200 locations is a huge milestone worth celebrating. Each new location we open requires a significant amount of teamwork every step of the way, and I am incredibly proud of our team for their hard work and dedication that made reaching this milestone possible. Bringing our exceptional car wash experience to more people is what it is all about, and we are proud to serve more communities than ever before at each of our 200 locations." Tidal Wave Auto Spa was founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, GA. In the years since, the company has earned its reputation as an industry leader, known for their cutting-edge car care technology, pristine locations, and dedication to delivering an exceptional car wash experience to every customer.To celebrate the Grand Opening of three new locations this week, Tidal Wave is offering seven days of free car washes at the new Greenville, Winchester, and Kinston locations from October 25-November 1. This limited-time promotion provides an opportunity for car owners in and around these communities to experience Tidal Wave's premium wash option, Graph-X4, at no cost. Additionally, any new customer that joins a Clean Club unlimited wash membership plan during Grand Opening week will enjoy their first month of unlimited washes for $9.97.Greenville, NC, Location: 102 E Arlington Blvd., Greenville, NC 27858Winchester, KY, Location: 460 Bullion Blvd., Winchester, KY 40391Kinston, NC, Location: 4468 W Vernon Ave., Kinston, NC 28504Tidal Wave offers single wash options and unlimited wash memberships to fit any budget, and customers planning to wash more than once a month can save money by joining any of Tidal Wave's Clean Club unlimited wash membership options. Clean Club members can wash at any Tidal Wave location every day of the month for one convenient monthly payment - plus, save time with exclusive club member wash lanes. Tidal Wave also offers family plans for individuals and families that need to wash multiple vehicles and fleet plans that can be customized to fit a company's unique wash needs.Tidal Wave Auto Spa has 200 locations operating in 23 states across the South, Midwest, and northern United States. For more information about Tidal Wave Auto Spa, including location details, please visit: https://www.tidalwaveautospa.com About Tidal Wave Auto SpaTidal Wave Auto Spa is an industry-leading conveyor car wash company founded in 1999 by Scott and Hope Blackstock in Thomaston, GA. Tidal Wave is committed to providing cutting-edge car care technology and exceptional customer service at each of their 200 locations spanning 23 states. In 2020, Tidal Wave partnered with Golden Gate Capital to facilitate their accelerated growth across the country. Tidal Wave is one of the top five conveyor car wash companies in the country and has been included in the Inc. 5000 list for America's Fastest Growing Companies since 2020. The company was recognized as a 2023 Champion of Charity Honoree by Professional Carwashing & Detailing and has raised over $3 million dollars for organizations in their communities.Contact InformationHeather Coleman Marketing Manager media@ tidalwaveautospa.com SOURCE: Tidal Wave Auto Spa
PR-Inside.com: 2023-10-26 22:35:29

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THIS NEWS RELEASE IS NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATESVANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Tier One Silver Inc. (TSXV:TSLV) ("Tier One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it is undertaking a non-brokered private placement of up to 15 million units of the Company (each, a "Unit") at an offering price of C$0.10 per Unit for gross proceeds to the Company of up to C$1,500,000 (the "Offering"). Each Unit shall consist of one common share of the Company (a "Share") and one full common share purchase warrant of the Company (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at a price of C$0.25 at any time on or before the date which is 24 months after the closing date of the initial tranche of the Offering (the "Closing Date"). The Warrants are subject to accelerated expiry to the date that is 30 days following the date of a news release issued by the Company announcing the accelerated expiry date in the event that the closing price of the common shares of the Company is greater than C$0.50 for 10 consecutive trading days on the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV") any time after the first 12 months from the Closing Date.The proposed use of proceeds from the Offering is to fund general working capital.In accordance with applicable securities laws, the Shares and Warrants issued under the Offering will be subject to a statutory four-month and one day hold period from the date of issuance in Canada. While the Offering is non-brokered, the Company may pay a cash finder's fee equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds and issue finder's warrants ("Finder's Warrants") equal to 6.0% of the number of Units sold under the Offering to eligible persons who refer investors to the Company, where permitted by applicable law and in accordance with the policies of the TSXV. Each Finder's Warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at the exercise price of C$0.25 for a period of 24 months from the Closing Date.The initial closing of the Offering is anticipated to occur on or about November 10, 2023, subject to the receipt of investor documentation, funds, corporate and TSXV approval. There is no minimum upon which the closing of the Offering is conditional, and any upsize will be announced in the context of the market.Insiders of the Company may participate in the Offering. The issuance of Units to insiders is considered a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Shareholders in related Party Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company intends to rely on the exemptions from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation as neither the fair market value of any securities issued to nor the consideration paid by such person could exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.The securities issued pursuant to the Offering 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. Accordingly, the securities issued pursuant to the Offering may not be offered or sold within the United States unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF TIER ONE SILVER INC.Peter Dembicki President, CEO and DirectorFor further information on Tier One Silver Inc., please contact the company at (778) 729-0700 or info@ tieronesilver.com About Tier One SilverTier One Silver is an exploration company focused on creating value for shareholders and stakeholders through the discovery of world-class silver, gold and base metal deposits in Peru. The Company's management and technical teams have a strong track record in raising capital, discovery and monetization of exploration success. The Company's exploration assets in Peru include: Corisur and the flagship project, Curibaya. For more information, visit www.tieronesilver.com Forward Looking Information and General Cautionary LanguageThis news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events in connection with the planned financing. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and therefore may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be heavily relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. In particular, and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements in regard to the size, closing and use of proceeds of the Offering.Readers should refer to the risks discussed in the Company's Annual Information Form and Management's Discussion & Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2022, and subsequent continuous disclosure filings with the Canadian Securities Administrators available at www.sedarplus.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.SOURCE: Tier One Silver Inc.
Xi holds talks with Colombian president, elevating ties to strategic partnership

Xinhua) 08:25, October 26, 2023

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday.

The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

He said the two sides have shown mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, made solid progress in cooperation across the board, and constantly deepened friendship between the two peoples.

The establishment of the strategic partnership is the result of the long-term efforts of all sectors of the two countries, and also a natural manifestation of mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides, Xi noted, adding that such a result should be cherished by both sides and continuously enriched and developed.

"China is willing to work with Colombia to promote the China-Colombia strategic partnership to better benefit the two peoples and inject positive energy into world peace and development," he said.

Xi said China supports Colombia's independent exploration of a development path suited to its national conditions, supports the peace process in Colombia, hopes that Colombia can realize comprehensive, lasting and sustainable peace at an early date, and believes that China's high-quality development and modernization process will bring new development opportunities to Colombia and other countries.

China-Colombia relations are based on equality, mutual benefit and win-win results, Xi said, adding that Colombia is welcome to join the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) at an early date to achieve common development and prosperity.

Xi called on the two sides to make good use of the mixed economic and trade committee mechanism, optimize bilateral trade structure, and strengthen cooperation in information, communications, digital economy and other fields. China encourages more high-quality Colombian products to enter the Chinese market, he added.

He also called for joint efforts to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral law enforcement cooperation, expressing hope that Colombia can better ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in the country.

As developing countries, China and Colombia should strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs to safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Xi also said China attaches great importance to developing relations with Latin America and the Caribbean, and is willing to continue to support the regional integration process in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Colombia is willing to maintain communication with China on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, among others, and push for a solution to stop the war and cool down the situation as soon as possible, said Petro, adding that Colombia welcomes the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi, and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral mechanisms.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Lin)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Development of two small hydropower plants (HPPs) located on the Chon-Zhargylchak river in the Issyk-Kul region of Kyrgyzstan, is currently underway, with the support of the Kyrgyzstan JIA Business Association, a source at the association told Trend.

The source indicated that these HPPs, designed by "Chon Zhargylchak Green Energy" LLC and "Kichi Zhargylchak Green Energy" LLC, will collectively have a capacity of 12 MW. Preparatory work is currently in progress to initiate the construction phase.

"Ongoing negotiations are being conducted with equipment suppliers, as well as providers of metal and plastic pipes, along with other essential materials. It's noteworthy that this project is being carried out with the involvement of Russian investors. The construction is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2025," the source said.

JIA is a non-profit organization that operates with the support of foreign investments. This association brings together over 1,400 companies, encompassing small, medium, and large businesses, not only within Kyrgyzstan but also on an international scale.

In October of this year, Kyrgyzstan's President Sadyr Japarov, said during a meeting with members of the Eastern Committee of the German Economy and representatives from leading German companies in Berlin that there were 51 small and medium-sized hydropower plants, along with 16 solar and wind power stations of varying capacities, under construction in Kyrgyzstan at that moment.
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HighlightsLiDAR Survey Starting Across Pilar Expansion Area to Provide Detailed 3D Surface for:Infrastructure and Mine Development PlanningEnvironmental PermittingDrill TargetingMapping of Historic Workings and StructureFollow-up Sampling on NEW Surface Discovery, 4.5-km from Pilar - 5.6 g/t Au and 106 g/t AgDrill Planning at Pilar and ExpansionCALGARY, AB / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Tocvan Ventures Corp. (the "Company") (CSE:TOC)(OTCQB:TCVNF)(FSE:TV3), is pleased to announce it is starting the environmental permitting process at its Pilar gold-silver project in Sonora, Mexico with the initiation of a detailed UAV LiDAR survey across Pilar and the newly acquired Expansion Area. The expansion area covers over 21.7-square kilometers with initial surface samples returning high-grade gold and silver values (5.6 g/t Au and 106 g/t Ag) associated with intense hydrothermal altered volcanic rocks (see October 19th news release). The LiDAR and surface imagery data will provide high-resolution (centimeter scale), surface modelling that will be utilized for numerous initiatives including the start of environmental permitting for mine development; advanced drill targeting and infrastructure planning.Figure 1. One of the newly acquired target areas in the expansion area 4.5-km north of Pilar. Recent recon sampling returned 5.6 g/t au and 106 g/t Ag in the first sample ever taken from the area, an area with expansive hydrothermal alteration over a 3.3x 1.5-km span. Alteration minerals tied to the hydrothermal system are shown from satellite ASTER data interpretation. "We are excited to continue moving forward at Pilar with this key step towards future development and planning." stated Brodie Sutherland, CEO. "The LiDAR survey will serve to establish a high-resolution surface model in which we can begin detailed planning for infrastructure. It will also be a useful tool in drill targeting as we will be able to pickup historic mine workings and geological features that host potential gold and silver mineralization. Our team will also be following-up on the recent high-grade sample results in the northern alteration target area. An area we feel is just starting to take shape into a significant target with an alteration footprint that spans over three-kilometers long and nearly two-kilometers wide." Figure 2. Overview of the Pilar Expansion Area with satellite ASTER interpretation data denoting alteration mineralogy. Base image from Google Earth. About LiDARLight Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), is an important tool for engineering and exploration allowing for detailed mapping accuracy and precision of natural and manmade features. LiDAR generates three-dimensional data in combination with photo imagery to produce extremely detailed elevation models for project planning and development.About the Pilar PropertyThe Pilar Gold-Silver property has recently returned some of the regions best drill results. Coupled with encouraging gold and silver recovery results from metallurgical test work, Pilar is primed to be a potential near-term producer. Pilar is interpreted as a structurally controlled low-sulphidation epithermal system hosted in andesite rocks. Three primary zones of mineralization have been identified in the north-west part of the property from historic surface work and drilling and are referred to as the Main Zone, North Hill and 4-T. The Main Zone and 4-T trends are open to the southeast and new parallel zones have been recently discovered. Structural features and zones of mineralization within the structures follow an overall NW-SE trend of mineralization. Mineralization extends along a 1.2-km trend, only half of that trend has been drill tested so far. To date, over 23,000 m of drilling has been completed.2022 Phase III Diamond Drilling Highlights include (all lengths are drilled thicknesses):116.9m @ 1.2 g/t Au, including 10.2m @ 12 g/t Au and 23 g/t Ag108.9m @ 0.8 g/t Au, including 9.4m @ 7.6 g/t Au and 5 g/t Ag63.4m @ 0.6 g/t Au and 11 g/t Ag, including 29.9m @ 0.9 g/t Au and 18 g/t Ag2021 Phase II RC Drilling Highlights include (all lengths are drilled thicknesses):39.7m @ 1.0 g/t Au, including 1.5m @ 14.6 g/t Au47.7m @ 0.7 g/t Au including 3m @ 5.6 g/t Au and 22 g/t Ag29m @ 0.7 g/t Au35.1m @ 0.7 g/t Au2020 Phase I RC Drilling Highlights include (all lengths are drilled thicknesses):94.6m @ 1.6 g/t Au, including 9.2m @ 10.8 g/t Au and 38 g/t Ag;41.2m @ 1.1 g/t Au, including 3.1m @ 6.0 g/t Au and 12 g/t Ag ;24.4m @ 2.5 g/t Au and 73 g/t Ag, including 1.5m @ 33.4 g/t Au and 1,090 g/t Ag15,000m of Historic Core & RC drilling. Highlights include:16.5m @ 53.5 g/t Au and 53 g/t Ag13.0m @ 9.6 g/t Au9.0m @ 10.2 g/t Au and 46 g/t Ag61.0m @ 0.8 g/t AuAbout Tocvan Ventures Corp.Tocvan is a well-structured exploration development company. Tocvan was created in order to take advantage of the prolonged downturn in the junior mining exploration sector, by identifying and negotiating interest in opportunities where management feels they can build upon previous success. Tocvan has approximately 39.9 million shares outstanding and is earning 100% into two exciting opportunities in Sonora, Mexico: the Pilar Gold-Silver project and the El Picacho Gold-Silver project. Management feels both projects represent tremendous opportunity to create shareholder value.Brodie A. Sutherland, P.Geo., CEO for Tocvan Ventures Corp. and a qualified person ("QP") as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this release.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlRock chip grab samples were shipped for sample preparation to ALS Limited in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico and for analysis at the ALS laboratory in North Vancouver. The ALS Hermosillo and North Vancouver facilities are ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025 certified. Gold was analyzed using 50-gram nominal weight fire assay with atomic absorption spectroscopy finish. Over limits for gold (>10 g/t), were analyzed using fire assay with a gravimetric finish. Silver and other elements were analyzed using a four-acid digestion with an ICP finish. Over limit analyses for silver (>100 g/t) were re-assayed using an ore-grade four-acid digestion with ICP-AES finish.Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking StatementsNeither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.This news release contains "forward-looking information" which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the activities, events or developments that the Company expects or a
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Bernstein Liebhard LLP, a nationally acclaimed investor rights law firm, reminds investors of the deadline to file a lead plaintiff motion in a securities class action lawsuit that has been filed on behalf of investors who purchased or acquired the common stock of UiPath, Inc. ("UiPath" or the "Company") (NYSE:PATH) between April 21, 2021 and March 30, 2022, inclusive (the "Class Period"). The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and alleges violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 against the Company and certain of its officers (the "Complaint").Do you, or did you, own shares of UiPath, Inc. (NYSE:PATH)?Did you purchase your shares between April 21, 2021 and March 30, 2022, inclusive?Did you lose money in your investment in UiPath, Inc.?Do you want to discuss your rights? If you purchased or acquired UiPath common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit UiPath, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than November 6, 2023. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. If you choose to take no action, you may remain an absent class member.The Complaint alleges that Defendants made materially false and misleading statements throughout the Class Period. Among other things, Defendants failed to disclose to investors that: (i) UiPath had enacted a widespread discounting program prior to its IPO, which had the effect of temporarily boosting UiPath's revenue and annualized recurring revenue ("ARR") metrics, cannibalizing its future sales, eroding UiPath's margins, and increasing the risk of client churn; (ii) UiPath's actual total addressable market was not as large as portrayed by defendants, because many companies included in UiPath's market survey did not need the type of high-cost, high-functionality automation products offered by UiPath; (iii) UiPath was losing customers to Microsoft, ServiceNow, SAP, Salesforce, IBM, and other established enterprise software vendors that were building automation into their platforms; (iv) UiPath was losing customers due to the increased availability of low-code automation software offered by vendors, such as Microsoft's Power Automate software, which were capable of addressing the majority of customer use cases at a fraction of the price of UiPath's products and services; and (v) UiPath was suffering from a loss of channel sales due to strained relationships with UiPath's partners as a result of increased competition between UiPath and these partners.On March 30, 2022, UiPath announced financial results for the quarter and year ended January 31, 2022. UiPath disclosed that it had earned revenues of just $289.7 million during the quarter, representing year-over-year growth of 39%. UiPath further revealed deeply disappointing ARR and revenue guidance, revealing that the declining growth trends adversely impacting UiPath were expected to continue. UiPath also announced the abrupt departure of Thomas Hansen, UiPath's Chief Revenue Officer, who was responsible for developing relationships with UiPath's current and prospective customers, expanding UiPath's partnership network, and fostering UiPath's developer community.On this news, UiPath's common stock fell $7.45 per share, or approximately 25.65%, to $21.59 per share on March 31, 2022.If you purchased or acquired UiPath common stock, and/or would like to discuss your legal rights and options please visit UiPath, Inc. Shareholder Class Action Lawsuit or contact Peter Allocco at (212) 951-2030 or pallocco@ bernlieb.com Since 1993, Bernstein Liebhard LLP has recovered over $3.5 billion for its clients. In addition to representing individual investors, the Firm has been retained by some of the largest public and private pension funds in the country to monitor their assets and pursue litigation on their behalf. As a result of its success litigating hundreds of lawsuits and class actions, the Firm has been named to The National Law Journal's "Plaintiffs' Hot List" thirteen times and listed in The Legal 500 for sixteen consecutive years.ATTORNEY ADVERTISING.  2023 Bernstein Liebhard LLP. The law firm responsible for this advertisement is Bernstein Liebhard LLP, 10 East 40th Street, New York, New York 10016, (212) 779-1414. Prior results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome with respect to any future matter.Contact Information:Peter AlloccoBernstein Liebhard LLP https://www.bernlieb.com(212) 951-2030pallocco@ bernlieb.com SOURCE: Bernstein Liebhard LLP
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NEWPORT BEACH, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Vivera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is pleased to announce the litigation involving Pedram Salimpour has been dismissed, leaving Salimpour with nothing by way of settlement.In the extortive 2020 lawsuit filed by Salimpour and his now-disbarred attorney, Thomas Girardi, Salimpour alleged he was an employee of Vivera, owed over $7.5 million in salary, and entitled to 5% ownership in the Company. The lawsuit was filed just weeks before the news of Girardi's behavior came to light in a federal fraud indictment. Salimpour, who has never been an employee of Vivera, filed it intending to disrupt Vivera's business and was aided by corrupt attorney Girardi.The lawsuit alleged that Salimpour acted as CEO of Vivera between 2017 and 2018, among other blatantly false statements designed to defame Vivera under the protection of so-called "litigation privilege." After being notified by the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL), the police union representing the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Vivera discovered Salimpour failed to disclose any such interest in Vivera in the legally mandated Form 700 disclosures required by all those serving in public office or adjacent positions."I am disgusted that Pedram tried to defraud Vivera shareholders and employees to gain something he never earned. What came to light during this experience is that we had other advisors, some actively doing business with Pedram, working against the best interests of Vivera as well. Several former Vivera advisors simultaneously worked with both Pedram and Vivera, even amid the false nature of his statements," stated Paul Edalat, Chairman, Founder, and CEO of Vivera. He further stated, "I will always defend Vivera, its shareholders, and its employees from outside attacks, including fraudulent lawsuits designed to hurt our hardworking team. Our company is on a mission to make a real impact on patient lives, and we will not be distracted. It's a shame that lawyers like Girardi can publish lies and get away with it." Edalat added, "I want to thank not only our attorneys, specifically Ms. Candace Bryner and her team, who so vigorously defended us, but the detectives that contacted us with the information that Pedram had failed to disclose Vivera on his mandatory filings really tipped the scales of justice the right way. We were later contacted by multiple local and federal agencies about Pedram, which was truly shocking." Girardi, Salimpour's former attorney and a long-time financial supporter of Villaraigosa, still faces federal fraud crime charges. Vivera is still pursuing its case against Girardi personally and is additionally looking into any bad acts committed by former advisors of the Company.Until 2022, Salimpour served as a commissioner for the multi-billion-dollar Los Angeles Fire and Police Pension and was required to disclose all business interests. It later came to light via an expose in the Los Angeles Daily News that Salimpour had acted to obtain a City of Los Angeles COVID-19 contract for his own company, PPS Health Bluestone Safe, requiring city employees to pay for testing, and outsourcing the testing to an out-of-state third-party laboratory.Vivera would like to thank the detectives, legal team, and investigators of the LAPPL for their invaluable assistance in bringing Salimpour's bad and fraudulent actions to light.About ViveraVivera is an innovative, science-driven biopharma and MedTech company located in Southern California. The Company has global exclusivity to license the patented and patent-pending TABMELT sublingual drug delivery system for pharmaceutical use and holds its own issued patents on ZICOH, an intelligent, dose-controlled electronic prescription dispensing device, MDZone, a portable telemedicine station and Conversall, its Speech Fluency Evaluation and Feedback Monitoring Device. With multiple divisions, including its technologies, biosciences, medical devices, and advanced diagnostics divisions, Vivera is vertically integrated with patented technology, manufacturing capabilities, and distribution for its products.For more information, please visit viverapharma.com or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.Contact:Ashley LeVinemedia@ viverapharma.com SOURCE: Vivera Pharmaceuticals
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Swedish Innovation Introduces Magnetic Kit with Box Locks, Ending the Horizontal vs. Vertical Game Storage DilemmaSTOCKHOLM, SWEDEN / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / In the vast realm of board games, a longstanding debate persisted: should games be stored horizontally or vertically? WALLZAP, the brainchild of Swedish innovation, is here to render that debate obsolete. Launched on October 17, WALLZAP brings an unparalleled solution to display and store board games.WALLZAP | Wall Mounting Kit & Box Locks Organize, Display, Re-organize & Play! Both methods have their pros and cons. Horizontal storage often results in box damage for games stacked at the bottom, while vertical storage may lead to lid drift and jumbled components. With WALLZAP's box locks, part of the wall mounting kit, this debate is settled. The product ensures games can be stored vertically without lid drift or transported horizontally without worrying about internal disarray. Essentially, WALLZAP grants board game enthusiasts the freedom of choice without compromise.Key features of WALLZAP's Magnetic Kit:Freedom of Storage: End lid drift with never-seen-before Box Locks, offering versatility in storage.Transformative Display: WALLZAP does more than just store; it transforms game boxes into visual masterpieces, enriching your living spaces.First of its Kind: WALLZAP is the world's first company to create a Magnetic Wall-Mounting Kit capable of holding games up to 7.3 lbs.CEO & Co-Founder John-Aron Windolf states, "We've always believed in merging design with functionality. The WALLZAP magnetic kit exemplifies this, settling the age-old storage debate and transforming game boxes into art." Creative Director & Co-Founder Philip MacInnes adds, "Our vision is for board game enthusiasts to showcase their collection without compromise, and we're excited to see the community's embrace." In this era of flourishing board game culture, coupled with the challenges of limited space, the demand for inventive storage and display solutions is on the rise. Stepping up to the challenge, WALLZAP offers a solution that doesn't just meet, but exceeds, the expectations in terms of design, utility, and aesthetic value.The worldwide board game surge, magnified during the COVID era, resulted in the global tabletop game market being valued at approximately 2.5 billion U.S. dollars in 2021. According to Statista, this market could see an increase of over 60 percent in the forthcoming decade. Kickstarter statistics further accentuate this trend, with board games being a dominant category.About WALLZAP: Rooted in Sweden's legacy of innovation, WALLZAP AB is a testament to a commitment- a commitment to revolutionizing the board game community's storage and display journey. To discover more about WALLZAP's vision and to back the campaign, visit their official Kickstarter Campaign and connect on Instagram.Contact InformationJohn-Aron Windolf CEO & CO-Founder johnaron.windolf@wallzap.store +46763945631SOURCE: WALLZAP
The Supreme Court is set to bring down the curtain on the legal disputes over the outcome of the 25 February presidential election, as it will, today, Thursday, deliver the final judgement on the two appeals challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu at the disputed poll.

Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Peter Obi of the Labour Party  the two leading opposition candidates at the election  had filed separate appeals to challenge the earlier 6 September verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court which affirmed Mr Tinubus victory.

Todays verdict will be the final court decision on the disputes over the election. It will mark the end of a two-stage judicial battle, the first part of which was decided by the presidential election court in favour of Mr Tinibu, which was further challenged at the Supreme Court. The court will now give the final say on the validity or otherwise of Mr Tinubus election.

Nigerias electoral commission, INEC, had declared Mr Tinubu the winner of the election on 1 March.

However, Atiku and Mr Obi, who came second and third, respectively, questioned INECs conduct of the polls; as they alleged widespread electoral fraud and the ineligibility of Mr Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to vie for the presidency.

A five-member panel of the Presidential Election Petition Court headed by Haruna Tsammani adjudicated the suits for three months before dismissing them on 6 September.

The court held that Atiku and Mr Obi failed to prove their separate claims against Mr Tinubu and INEC.

Dissatisfied, the pair headed to the Supreme Court, the final arbiter on presidential election dispute in Nigeria, where they urged the court to set aside the presidential election court decision on account of miscarriage of justice.

A seven-member panel of the Supreme Court headed by John Okoro heard Atiku and Mr Obis appeals on Monday, and set them down for judgement.

At the final hearing of the case on Monday, Atikus lawyer, Chris Uche tendered fresh evidence before the Supreme Court to prove his clients case against the President. The Supreme Court will decide in its judgement today whether the fresh evidence, critical to Atikus case, is legally acceptable and can be reviewed as part of evidence submitted by a party.

Specifically, Atiku through his lawyer, Chris Uche, accused Mr Tinubu of forgery concerning the presidents academic records from the Chicago State University.

After a rigorous suit in the United States, Atiku obtained Mr Tinubus academic records which he has now filed at the Supreme Court to prove his forgery allegation which was rejected by the presidential election court, against Mr Tinubu.

On his part, Mr Obis lawyer, Livy Uzoukwu, urged the Supreme Court to nullify the presidential election court decision and declare Mr Obi the winner of the election.

However, the presidents lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, INECs lawyer, Abubakar Mahmoud, and APCs Akin Olujinmi, asked the Supreme Court to dismiss the appeals and affirm Mr Tinubus victory.

The court subsequently fixed Thursday for judgement.

PREMIUM TIMES team is at the Supreme Court to bring you live updates from the crucial proceedings.

9:20 a.m.: Members of the Supreme Court panel led by John Okoro file into the courtroom.

9:22 a.m.: Registrar calls Atiku Abubakars appeal.

Atiku Abubakars lawyer, Chris Uche (SAN), announces appearance.

9:25 a.m : Abdullahi Aliyu (SAN) announces appearance for INEC.

9:26a.m.: A lawyer, Akintola Makinde, from the law firm of Wole Olanipekun (SAN), announces appearance for President Bola Tinubu.

09: 29 a.m.: A lawyer, Olumide Olujinmi, announces appearance for APC.

Court set to deliver judgement on Atikus appeal.

9:30 a.m.: The presiding justice of the panel, John Okoro, begins reading the lead judgement on Atikus appeal.

9:33 a.m.: Mr Okoro gives a background to the appeal.

9.35 a.m.:The Justice recaps the issues that came up at the Presidential Election Petition Court in Abuja.

The issues include alleged electoral fraud, President Tinubus non-qualification, and non-compliance of the conduct of the disputed election with the provisions of the Electoral Act.

9:38 a.m.: Justice Okoro said on 18 September, Atiku filed a notice of appeal with 35 grounds of appeal, while on 7 October, the respondents filed their reply.

9.39 a.m.: The court is now dealing with the application by Atiku to file additional evidence  the deposition of an official of the Chicago State University.

One of Atikus grounds for challenging Mr Tinubus appeal was that the president was not qualified to run for office on account of forged academic records.

9:42 a.m.: Justice Okoro recounts Atikus legal battle in the US to obtain Mr Tinubus academic records from the CSU.

9.47a.m.: The Justice finishes highlighting the 20 grounds on which Atiku anchored the application.

Justice Okoro says Mr Tinubu filed an 11 paragraph counter-affidavit to Atikus application to tender a fresh evidence against the president.

President Bola Tinubus lead lawyer, Wole Olanipekun, filed a written address against Atikus move to bring in new evidence before the Supreme Court against Mr Tinubu.

9.52 a.m.: Mr Okoro says the pivotal question to ask is whether Nigerian laws allow this court to receive and act on this document at this stage.

9:54 a.m: Justice Okoro recalls Chris Uche (SAN), Atikus lawyers argument regarding the difficulty in obtaining Mr Tinubus academic records from the Chicago State University.

INEC lawyer, Abubakar Mahmoud, had argued that an allegation of forgery is criminal in nature and requires to be proved beyond reasonable doubt. This appeal being based on election matter, the implication is that all evidence ought to have been adduced at the trial court and judgement delivered within 180 days, Justice Okoro recalled.

10: 01: a.m: Justice Okoro said, Mr Olanipekun argued that the Supreme Court lacked the power to consider Atikus fresh evidence against Mr Tinubu.

The failure to invite the APC and INEC to participate in the court proceedings in the US aimed at obtaining Mr Tinubus academic records from CSU, renders the fresh evidence inadmissible, Mr Olanipekun argued in the courts decision being read by Mr Okoro.

Justice Okoro recalled Mr Olanipekuns argument in defence of Mr Tinubu.

10.05 a.m.: Justice Okoro begins reviewing arguments on the issue of fresh evidence tendered by Atiku.

He decides to decide the issue from the point of whether or not the court has jurisdiction to accept the new evidence.

The jurisdiction of the court is at the foundation of adjudication, the Justice said.

Jurisdiction clothes the court the power to determine cases, he says.

10.08a.m.: Justice Okoro says jurisdiction is the fulcrum upon which every court decision is based.

Justice Okoro says, I must emphasise that it is trite that election proceedings are their unique class.

This court has to take into account the peculiarity of this case.

I have carefully perused the record of Appeal, he says.

He said Atiku filed the appeal on the last day of the timeframe allowed to lodge an appeal.

The 180 days prescribed by the law lapsed on 17 September, Justice Okoro noted.

10.11 a.m.: Justice Okoro recalled an earlier decision of the Supreme Court which said, In the circumstance of this case, this court cannot activate section 22 of the Supreme Court Act to admit fresh evidence.

The application runs foul of 14 of the Evidence Act.

10.15 a.m.: I still wonder how the appelant intend to use the document in this proceeding, says Mr Okoro.

The petitioner shall not be allowed to allow to amend their petition after the 21 days allowed by law, the Justice says.

Citiing Section 182 of the Electoral Act, Justice Okoro said, Atiku failed to apply to the court to amend his petition to bring the fresh evidence against Mr Tinubu.

10.18 a.m.: It is shocking to have Atikus lawyer argue in print that there is no statutory time limit of 180 days for the lower court to decide a presidential election petition.

10.19a.m.: It will be unfortunate to go back to the dark old days when election petitions could be heard up to the point of expiration of the tenure of the person whose election was being challenged, Justice Okoro says of Atikus attempt to introduce fresh evidence with a view to extending the time to adjudicate the csae

Consequently, since the Presidential Election court has no jurisdiction to entertain fresh evidence, the Supreme Court has no jurisdiction to accept fresh evidence, Justice Okoro says.

19.20a.m.: It has to be noted that the 180 days imposed is immutable and cannot be extended,Justice Okoro said.

10.23 a.m.: The jurisdiction of this court is donated by the Constitution.

One wonders what Atikus intends to do when none of his grounds of appeal is not hinged on forgery of certificate against Mr Tinubu.

Finally, on this application, fresh evidence is not received as a matter of cause.

10.26 a.m.: Atiku failed to convince the Supreme Court on why he waited until the PEPC concluded the appellants suit and lost jurisdiction before making an attempt to tender the document.

10.29 a.m. The court dismisses the Atikus application to tender fresh evidence.

10.30 a.m.: The court now set to deal with the merit of the substantive appeal.

10. 31 a.m.: The court is now dealing with the issue of INECs failure to comply with the provision of the Electoral Act by failure to transmit result of the election IReV

A petitioner seeking to nullify an election must show noncompliance substantial affected the election, Justice Okoro said

The appellant abandoned the duty placed on them to prove noncompliance, but relied solely on INECs inability to electronically transmit the election results to the INEC Results Viewing (IReV) portal, Justice Okoro said.

The Electoral Act empowers INEC to determine the mode of transmission of election results.

 I agree with the lower court that the failure of INEC to electronically transmit the results does not affect the collation of results, Justice Okoro said.

10.52 a.m.: The court is now dealing with the issue of 25 per cent of FCT votes.

10.53 a.m.: To be honest, I see nothing wrong in the above decision, Mr Okoro says, affirming the decision of the PEPC that Mr Tinubu did not have to win 25 per cent of the votes FCT having polled 25 per cent of the votes in 13 other states of the frderation.

He says a court should give a wholistic interpretation to the constitution. He says such interpretation must be people-oriented.

A narrow and selfish approach should be avoided, he adds.

He says interpretation of law must be such that it will reduce law making to absurdity.

He says he sees merit in the issue as raised by the apellant and dismisses it.

The decision of the PEPC is unasailable, Justice Okoro says.

 I do not see anything wrong with the decision of the Presidential Election Petition Court when it interpreted the constitution regarding the issue of 25 per cent in Abuja.

The interpretation of the constitution should serve the generality of the people.

Let me drive this matter home.

Are saying that if a candidate scores majority votes across the country but fails to win the election in the Federal Capital Territory. Cant the candidate be declared president?

The next issue is PEPCs rejection of Atikus witness statements on account of not being filed alongside the main petition on 21 March.

The Electoral Act contains mandatory provisions which make election petitions in a class of their own.

Rules governor civil proceedings are not the same as election matters. The constitution shows that the time of filing of witness statements is 21 days from the date of declaration of results, the Justuce says.

10.59 a.m.: The appellant had been totally foreclosed from any amendments to the petition which Atiku sought to present before the court, the Justuce says.

11:03 a.m.: It has to be emphasised that the use of the word shall makes it mandatory and conclusive.

An application for extension of time after the filing of a petition is not permitted.

The lower courts decision to strike out offending witness statements cannot be faulted, Mr Okoro says.

The issue three is resolved against Atiku.

There was no evidence to support allegations of votes manipulation as alleged by Atikus agent in Kogi State.

He visited only 20 polling units in the over 3000 polling units in Kogi State.

11:11a.m.: It is impossible for a political party to appoint an octopus agent who will be at every polling unit on election day.

Atikus agents can only testify in their polling units only where they witnessed what they saw, but not across the country where they were not present.

 I adopt the decision of the lower court which is in line with a plethora of precedents, Justice Okoro says.

The witnesses testimonies were hearsay.

The finding of the lower court in discountenancing the Atikus witnesses cannot be be faulted.

11:16 a.m.: The court is ruling on the contention of Atiku that the PEPC struck out some paragraphs of his petition.

The PEPC had held that some paragraphs of Atikus petition were imprecise and vague, and consequently struck them out.

11:20 a.m.: The respondents had lost their right of reply when Atiku introduced into his court filings issues bordering on Mr Tinubus alleged forfeiture of $460,000 to the US government over trafficking of illicit drugs, the court says.

Indeed by the provisions of the Electoral Act, the law frowns on the introduction of fresh facts or issues.

11:23 a.m I have critically considered the argument of parties concerning the cancellation of results and manipulation of votes and criminal allegations against Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, Justice Okoro says.

He upholds the decision of the lower court striking out the offending paragraphs of Atikus petition.

11: 24 a.m.: The court resolves the issue against against Atiku.

11:27 a.m.: Success or failure in an election depends on votes, Mr Okoro says, restating the decision of the Presidential Election Petition.

11:29: a.m.: I have earlier resolved the issue of transmission of results which is the main thrust of the appellants case, he adds.

In this appeal, the issue before us is not about the candidate who score the majority

I am unable to find any figure put forward by Atiku that he scored the majority votes, other than the figures declared by INEC declaring the second respondent (Tinubu) winner of the election.

11:23 a.m.: The votes before us show that the second respondent Tinubu won the election, Justice Okoro says.

11:33 a.m.: Finally, on the issue of use of disparaging words by the lower court on the appellant.

The words of the court were not meant to disparage the appellant, he says.

11:35 a.m.: Having resolved all the issues against the appellant that there is no merit in this appeal.

The judgment of the lower court delivered on 6 September declaring Tinubu president is hereby affirmed, Justice Okoro says.

11:37 a.m.: A member of the Supreme Court panel, Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, agrees with the lead judgement declaring Mr Tinubu president.

11:40 a.m.: Another member of the panel, Garba Lawal, agrees with the lead judgement.

He says, the FCT is not elevated to a higher pedestal than other states.

This court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain Atikus request to tender fresh evidence, he says.

11:44 a.m.: Justice Ibrahim Saulawa also concurs with the lead decision delivered by Justice John Okoro.

11:48 a.m: Justice Adamu Jauro agrees with the decision.

The appeal is bereft of merit and I agree with the lead judgement.

11: 49 a.m.: Justice Tijjani Abubakar says, I find the application without merit and it deserves to be dismissed.

I find no merit in the substantive appeal and it is hereby dismissed. Parties in the appeal shall bear their respective cost.

11:51 a.m: Justice Emmanuel Agim too concurs with the lead decision.

I completely agree with the conclusion and reasoning by my brother Justice Okoro.

The academic record from CSU is inadmissible, he says.

A document from another country cannot be used in Nigeria without being authenticated.

I continue to wonder why the appellant didnt use the advantage of the court order to obtain a letter from CSU to disclaim the certificate that was presented by the second respondent to INEC, Justice Agim said.

It was obvious to the appellant that his request to introduce fresh was not going to sail through, the Justice said.

11:59 a.m.: Court registrar calls Peter Obis appeal for judgement.

12 noon: Patrick Ikweto, SAN, announces appearance for Peter Obi.

12:02 p.m.: Stephen Adehi (SAN) announces legal representation for INEC.

12:02 p.m: Stephen Adehi (SAN) announces legal representation for INEC.

12:05 p.m: Akintola Makinde, a lawyer from Wole Olanipekuns law firm, announces appearance for Mr Tinubu.

12:07 p.m.: Olumide Olujinmi announces appearance for the APC.

12.11 p.m.: It is the decision of this court that on issue four regarding double nomination, this court cannot allow the matter of double nomination to be relitigated in this court, Justice Okoro says.

The Supreme Court dismisses Peter Obis appeal.

12: 09 p.m.: Our decision on earlier issues in Atikus appeal will abide on Peter Obis appeal, the court says.

12: 13 p.m.: Other Justices of the Supreme Court panel agree with Justuce Okoros lead decision on Peter Obis appeal.

12:14 p.m.: The judgement ends both Atikus and Mr Obis appeals. Justices file out.

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The Libyan parliament on Wednesday, 25 October, requested that ambassadors from countries that support Israel in its conflict with Hamas in Gaza leave the country, AFP reports.

Since 7 October 2023 when Hamas militants began an onslaught that Israeli sources said killed 1,400 civilians, Israel has been bombing the Gaza Strip. The Health Ministry in Gaza said that over 6,500 Palestinians were killed as a result of Israeli strikes.

In an announcement posted on its official website, the parliament located in the east, supported by military leader Khalifa Haftar in Libya, which is divided between two opposing administrations, threatened to shut off energy supplies if massacres against Palestinians continued.

We demand that the ambassadors of the states which support the Zionist entity (Israel) in its crimes leave the territory (of Libya) immediately, the statement read.

If the massacres committed by the Zionist enemy do not stop, we demand that the Libyan government suspend the export of oil and gas to the states that support it, it said.

The acts of the governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy were condemned in the strongest terms by the parliament. According to the statement, the leaders of these countries lecture on human rights and the right of peoples to self-determination while they support the Zionist entity in its crimes in Gaza, it said.

Libya was torn apart by bloodshed and conflict following the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. Since then, the country has been ruled by two opposing groups. The UN recognizes Abdulhamid Dbeibahs administration in Tripoli, while Mr Haftar  a former army member of Gaddafis  runs the government in eastern Libya.

Since the start of the most recent conflict, Libyans have demonstrated their support for Palestinians, especially in the wake of a fatal hospital explosion in Gaza on October 17.

READ ALSO:

The African Union and African presidents and foreign ministers are calling for an end to the current escalation between Israel and Hamas militants from Gaza  a narrow piece of land on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Israel to the east and north, and Egypt to the southwest  which broke out on Saturday, 7 October 2023.

Earlier, Moussa Mahamat, the chairperson of the African Union Commission, said that Israel committed a war crime after the fatal attack on the Gaza Strip hospital.

There are no words to fully express our condemnation of Israels bombing of a #Gaza hospital today, killing hundreds of people. Targeting a hospital, considered a safe haven under International Humanitarian Law, is a war crime. The International Community must act now, Mr Mahamat wrote on X.

Meanwhile, the Southern African Litigation Centre (SALC) called on the 33 African states that are members of the International Criminal Court (ICC) to lobby for a full ICC investigation into reports of grave human rights violations and war crimes in Gaza.

Rallies have been held across Africa expressing support for the Palestinian people. In Cape Town, South Africa, several thousand people marched in a show of solidarity with the people of Palestine, with demonstrators holding placards and flags, while chants of free Palestine and stop the genocide, stop the hate were heard.

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Nigerias ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has described the judgement of the Supreme Court on the 2023 presidential election dispute as a landmark verdict that should put all misgivings about the election to rest.

The ruling party, in a statement on Thursday by its spokesperson, Felix Morka, said the verdict of the Supreme Court underscores the independence and vibrancy of the Nigerian judiciary.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that earlier, the Supreme Court dismissed the appeals against the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PETP) and affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu.

Atiku Abubakar, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi, the candidate of the Labour Party, had appealed the verdict of the lower court at the Supreme Court, but the court ruled in favour of Mr Tinubu, the APC candidate in the 25 February election.

In reaction to the verdict, the ruling party congratulated the president and his vice, Kashim Shettima.

This epochal judgement underscores the independence and vibrancy of the Nigerian judiciary as an indispensable feature of our democracy.

It is our hope that this judgment will put to rest all lingering misgivings about the 2023 presidential election so that we may all now concentrate on working collaboratively across party lines on behalf of our people.

We heartily congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, and the Nigerian people on this important landmark victory for our democracy, the statement reads.

The Supreme Court is the last in presidential election disputes in Nigeria, and its rulings are final.

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In August, Gabon faced a pivotal crossroads when a coup unfolded, marking the end of a staggering 56-year rule by the Bongo family. The dynasty had come to symbolise both political continuity and calamitous governance.

Led by high-ranking Republican Guard officers, the tightly controlled transfer of power swiftly deposed long-standing president Ali Bongo Ondimba. His ousting has ushered in a new era of uncertainty, with a transitional government led by General Brice Oligui Nguema.

Over the years, Central Africa has been marred by political instability and recently, coups, reflecting a region plagued by governance challenges. In this environment, positive political transitions could become proactive tools for consolidating governance and preventing instability and coups.

In Gabon, political, social and economic factors converged to create a volatile climate, leaving the country vulnerable to a power vacuum after Omar Bongos death in June 2009. His son Ali Bongo became president after the eviction of his fathers former companions and a contested election in August 2009. Perceptions of political injustice and polarisation followed, heightened by the absence of a transparent and inclusive electoral process and an unstable political system.

Each of Ali Bongos three election wins  in 2009, 2016 and 2023  were disputed. In 2016, protesters set the countrys Parliament building alight after his re-election. Ironically, his main rival was his former brother-in-law, Jean Ping, who previously held high-ranking posts in the elder Bongos cabinet. These developments led to widespread political division, increasingly acrimonious rhetoric, violent clashes between political factions and electoral disputes.

The oil-rich nations August 2023 election was plagued by complaints of corruption. Although Ali Bongo secured over two-thirds of the vote, the election lacked transparency and legitimacy. During his reign, Ali Bongo was accused of buying off opponents and appointing family members to strategic positions. During the controversial 2023 polls, no international observers or journalists were present, a curfew was imposed, and the countrys borders were closed.

Bongos disregard for the rule of law and democracy provided fertile ground for opposition parties seeking change  but also fuelled popular discontent and provided impetus for political upheaval.

Despite its above-average GDP per capita of US$17 440, Gabon has high levels of income inequality and poverty. In 2019, 43.5% of the population lived below the poverty line  the fourth highest poverty rate among Africas upper-middle-income economies. Unemployment is high, with 40% of young people out of work in 2020.

Gabons economic downturn, driven by fluctuations in oil prices, has undermined the governments ability to provide for its citizens. As the economy weakened, the government struggled to maintain public support, and corruption scandals further eroded the populations trust.

With this type of governance in place for 57 years, the conditions were ripe for social unrest and an unconstitutional change of regime.

Preventing political instability and coups in Central Africa largely hinges on identifying and responding to warning signs timeously and effectively  and Gabons experiences provide valuable insights.

The countrys new Transition Charter lays the groundwork for democratic reform. Its emphasis on democratic ideals, human rights and good governance shows a willingness to address past difficulties and construct a more stable and democratic future. New values such as patriotism, accountability and inclusivity indicate a shifting political environment that emphasises openness and dialogue.

Properly implementing the charter will be critical and requires collaboration among all stakeholders and adherence to the documents principles. Gabons political environment is changing, and the charter represents a key component of that development.

However, it is silent on two crucial issues: the presidents eligibility for the next elections and the duration of the transition. This is creating tensions that could worsen if the national dialogue scheduled for next April doesnt settle these issues.

The political situation in Gabon before the coup is similar to that of many Central African countries. Regimes have been in place for decades without alternation, and economic governance doesnt always meet the peoples aspirations.

In these contexts, transition agendas could be used to reset political systems and avert instability. Countries such as Gabon and Chad should use their transitions proactively to improve political and economic freedoms, and address underlying popular grievances. More than two years into its transition, Chad has made little progress, but Gabon could do better.

Using political transitions as a tool to prevent coups offers the prospect of long-term stability, reconciliation and regional cooperation. To succeed though, political transitions must be repositioned towards coup prevention. Such an approach  involving diplomatic, political and security measures  is imperative for Central Africa and needs the support of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

The African Union (AU) can assist by ensuring that the political transition in Gabon and those across Central Africa lead to long-term stability and resilience against coups. In Gabons case, the AU and ECCAS can mediate conflicts and promote dialogue to address grievances and foster reconciliation. Both organisations should deploy election observer missions to establish the new governments legitimacy and prevent further political crises.

Gabons case can guide ECCAS in promoting democratic transitions that enable Central Africa to find a road to peace and stability.

Remadji Hoinathy, Senior Researcher, Central Africa and Great Lakes and Nirvaly Mooloo, Intern, Institute for Security Studies (ISS)

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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The State Security Service (SSS) has formally confirmed the release of the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa.

Peter Afunanya, the director public relations and strategic communications at the SSS, confirmed the release of Mr Bawa in a statement on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the former EFCC chairperson was released on Wednesday night but did not give details of the deal.

SSS confirms release of former EFCC chairman, Abdulrasheed Bawa, a few hours ago, today, Oct. 25, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the former EFCC boss had been in the detention of the DSS since June 14 after his suspension by the Federal Government.

Mr Bawas freedom came three days after PREMIUM TIMES published a blistering editorial calling for his release and that of Godwin Emefiele, the embattled former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

The editorial had faulted the government for detaining the two former officials in breach of Nigerian constitution and other laws.

In case you missed that editorial, it has been reproduced below for your reading pleasure.

=============================================

EDITORIAL: Emefiele, Bawa and urgency of the rule of law

Two public office holders, Godwin Emefiele, and Abdulrasheed Bawa, who held sway at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as governor, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as chairman, respectively, were the first high-profile figures to be enmeshed in the web of President Bola Tinubus inchoate anti-corruption campaign. Their indefinite suspensions from office in June have just transmogrified into permanent exit. The circumstances under which they occurred are anything but transparent and justifiable.

Nonetheless, the country is in a democracy, whose cornerstones are constitutionalism and the rule of law. The president admitted this much during his inauguration when he said that Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the constitution and the rule of law. However, the travails of Emefiele since 10 June when he was arrested, and Bawas on 14 June, negate this position. Markedly, Tinubus administration has shown disdainful violations of the rule of law, disrespect of court orders and abuse of human rights, emblematised in the excesses of the State Security Service.

A news report, which quoted a CBN statement on 17 September, stated that Emefiele, who was serving his second five-year tenure, had resigned his appointment. Two days earlier, his successor, Yemi Cardoso, was announced, which provoked public concerns over the legality of such appointment, as no vacancy, strictly speaking, existed prior to this. The CBN Act clearly provides for how the president can terminate the appointment of a CBN governor. The removal is to be supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate, as amplified in Section 11 (2) (f) of the Act. Alternatively, the president is to wait until he is convicted of a criminal offence by a court of competent jurisdiction. The third option is through the resignation of such official, which, in the present circumstance, is suspect, as no one has seen evidence that Emefiele actually resigned.

Held in SSS detention for more than four months now, Bawa also purportedly resigned his chairmanship of the EFCC. The Federal Government has not made public the resignation letters of these officers and neither have they been allowed to publicly speak on the matter. As it is, the government will be hard put to convince anyone that the two resigned of their free will.

We should make no mistake about it, PREMIUM TIMES is not speaking for Emefiele, having repeatedly called for his removal from office over gross incompetence in handling the countrys monetary policy space. However, our concern is the non-observance of due process or the legality in the manner of sending him packing. It is curious that a government which alleged a welter of evidence of his abuse of office did not activate the provision of the CBN Act that requires the Senates imprimatur for his removal.

From the initial charge of illegal possession of firearms, to terrorism financing, he was finally slammed with 20 counts on 16 August, along with his associates, for conspiracy and procurement fraud to the tune of N6.9 billion. The twists and turns that Emefieles trials have evinced so far, are blights on the respect for the rule of law credentials of this government: his bail denials, re-arrest in a Federal High Court, Abuja premises, and the open assault of prison personnel by SSS operatives, in their bid to have their way, are sore points.

The handling of Bawas case smacks of impunity and a return of the Gestapo tactics of the military era, which are alien to democracy. The Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015, in Section 493, prescribes only 56 days as the cumulative lifespan of a remand Order. Bawas incarceration from 14 June to 23 October, without being charged, is unacceptable as it goes against the canons of democracy. Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, does not permit such executive overreach. Tinubu and the SSS should, therefore, release Bawa now, make his offence(s) public and charge him to court, if need be.

No authority is above the law in a democracy. The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, as the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, should, without further delay, draw Tinubus attention to the infamy that Bawas case has become. The magistrates remand Order that empowered the SSS to detain Bawa has elapsed. As Femi Falana (SAN) observed, it has been spent and is now invalid and illegal.

It is a supreme irony that Tinubu, who often flaunts the record of being one of the Argonauts in the trenches who pushed the military back to the barracks, thus paving the way for the birth of the Fourth Republic, pivots this revolting and anti-democratic charge. Claims of Bawas possible financial impropriety are being whispered in official and public quarters, but if they are publicly undisclosed, they lend credence to the view of a conspiracy that Bawa is only being persecuted for the feathers he might have ruffled in the discharge of his official duties as EFCC boss.

The incarceration of anyone beyond legal limits, with no publicly known offence or charge, typifies violence to the Constitution. A former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, was, therefore, right when she noted that, Any country or government which wants to proceed towards tyranny starts to undermine legal rights and the law.

While the circumstances of Bawas purported resignation remain questionable, the Senate confirmed the nomination of his successor, Olanipekun Olukoyede, last Wednesday, in what many say was in breach of Section 2(3) of the EFCC Act 2005. This stipulates that the Commissions chairman, Must be a serving or retired member of any Government security or law enforcement agency not below the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police or equivalent; (who) possesses not less than 15 years experience.

Four months are enough for the government to open up on its claimed weighty allegations of abuse of office levelled against Bawa. His predecessors  Nuhu Ribadu, Faridah Waziri, Ibrahim Larmode and Ibrahim Magu  had faced similar wide-ranging allegations and were hounded out of office in actions that were no more than the handiwork of vested interests in the corridors of power; and powerful politically exposed persons, who were then out of office but still controlling the levers of state power.

Instructively, the rule of law is one Tinubus Eight Point Agenda. So far, the claim does not wash. Consequently, AGF Fagbemi has a lot of work to do: first, to rein in the SSS, then advise Tinubu aright, and push through the World Justice Project preachment that the rule of law is, A durable system of laws, institutions, norms and community of commitment, which ensures accountability, just law, open government and accessible and impartial justice.

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, October 26. The year 2024 has been declared the Year of the Environment by the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Trend reports.

Akylbek Japarov, Chairman of Kyrgyzstan's Cabinet of Ministers, delivered this comment at an extended meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek.

Japarov also stated that the Year of the Environment action plan will be adopted today. He stressed the significance of developing cooperation in environmental preservation, climate change adaptation, and impact mitigation.

"We propose to join forces in the fight against climate change, air and water pollution, and the preservation of biodiversity," Japarov said.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the next meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government will take place in Pakistan.

The meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government is attended by the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Premier of the State Council of China, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan, and the Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan.
The Supreme Court has dismissed the appeal filed by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, to challenge President Bola Tinubus election.

The judgemet, delivered Thursday, laid to rest Atikus ferocious legal battle which stretched to the United States to overturn Mr Tinubus victory at the 25 February election.

The seven-member panel of the court unanimously dismissed the appeal after resolving all seven issues raised by the appellant in favour of Mr Tinubu.

The presiding justice of the panel, Inyang Okoro, who read the lead judgement, struck down the allegation by Atiku that failure to promptly upload the polling unit results of the election to IReV amounted to non-compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, thus, invalidating the election.

The court dismissed this argument, saying IReV was not a result collation platform, therefore failure to upload results onto it could not have invalidated the election.

The court also held that Mr Tinubus failure to score 25 per cent of the votes in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) when he had polled 25 per cent votes in over 24 states as required by law did not affect his victory in the election.

The court also held that Atiku failed to prove his allegation of widespread rigging during the election or that he won the election

I am unable to find any figures put forward by the appellant that he scored the majority votes, other than the figures declared by INEC declaring the second respondent (Tinubu) winner of the election.

The votes before us show that the second respondent Tinubu won the election, Justice Okoro said.

On the issue of use of disparaging words by the lower court against the appellant, Mr Okoro said the words of the court were not meant to disparage the appellant and did not amount to bias against appellant as argued by their lawyers.

On the whole, having resolved all the issues against the appellant, I hold that there is no merit in this appeal and it hereby dismissed, Mr Okoro said.

On that basis, he said the judgement of the PEPC delivered on 6 Septemeber, affirming Mr Tinubu as the duly elected President of Nigeria is hereby affirmed.

The court earlier dismissed the bid by Atiku to tender fresh evidence of certificate forgery against President Tinubu.

The fresh evidence was a deposition of the registrar of Chicago State University (CSU) on the academic records of Mr Tinubu. Atiku had obtained the document after winning a legal case in a US court which compelled the unviversity to release Mr Tinubus academic records to Atiku to prove allegation of certificate forgery against Mr Tinubu.

The court held that it lacked the jurisdiction to entertain such evidence that was not tendered before the lower court.

Mr Okoro also said the appellants lawyers were tardy in their attempt to obtain the evidence and tender it at the lower court.

According to Mr Okoro, as of the time Atiku brought the document, the trial Presidential Election Petition Court had lost jurisdiction to hear Atikus petition challenging Mr Tinubus election. He added that the Supreme Court did not have the power to accept and act on the evidence which the lower court did not admit and act on.

Mr Okoro wondered why Atiku sought to tender the fresh evidence when the grounds of his appeal did not raise the issue of certificate forgery against the president.

The jurisdiction of this court is donated by the Constitution. One wonders what the appellant (Atiku) intends to do when none of his grounds of appeal is hinged on forgery against the second respondent

(Mr Tinubu.), Mr Okoro held.

The judge explained that Atikus attempt to introduce the fresh evidence was aimed at reversing the gains made in speedy adjudication of electoral disputes that had been marred by prolonged hearing.

The court will now deliver judgement on Peter Obis appeal.

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The Supreme Court has dismissed the appeal filed by Peter Obi of the Labour Party challenging the election of President Bola Tinubu.

The seven-member panel of the court led by Inyang Okoro summarily dismissed the appeal on Thursday, saying the appeal raised substantially the same issues as Atiku Abubakars appeal which was earlier dismissed by the court.

The court also said in its unanimous judgement that the only different issue in Mr Obis appeal, which is the allegation of the double nomination of Kashim Shettima as a vice-presidential candidate and a senatorial candidate in the February election, had been earlier resolved by the court and would not be allowed to be relitigated.

The judgement, coming immediately after the courts decision dismissing Atikus appeal, brought the curtain down on the legal disputes over the validity of Mr Tinubus election.

The Supreme Court expressed its displeasure over the relitigation of Vice President Kashim Shettimas double nomination issue.

This court cannot allow the issue of candidates double nomination to be relitigated in this court. There must be an end to litigation, Mr Okoro held.

He added that this matter ought not to have come here. This appeal lacks merit and it is hereby dismissed.

Lending his weight to the lead decision, a member of the courts panel, Tijjani Abubakar, said the issue had nothing useful to add to the appeal.

In his contribution, Mohammed Garba said Mr Obis grouse with the verdict of the presidential election court had been comprehensively dealt with in Atiku Abubakars appeal.

This appeal substantially canvasses same issues in Atikus appeal, Justice Garba said.

Other members of the panel, Uwani Abba-Aji, Adamu Jauro, Ibrahim Saulawa and Emmanuel Agim, while agreeing with the lead judgement, dismissed Mr Obis suit for being unmeritorious.

Background

Mr Obis lawyer, Chris Uche, argued fiercely at the presidential election court about Mr Tinubus non-qualification to be declared president of Nigeria on account of his inability to secure 25 per cent votes in FCT as statutorily required.

The Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Obi, had won a landslide in the FCT. Neither Atiku nor Mr Tinubu could garner the statutory votes in Abuja.

Consequently, Mr Obi had urged the court to either declare him president or order a rerun election due to Mr Tinubus failure to poll 25 per cent of lawful votes in Abuja.

However, ruling on the issue, on Thursday, Mr Okoro, who delivered the lead decision in Atikus appeal, held that acceding to the Labour Party candidates request would amount to a narrow and selfish approach in interpreting the (Nigerian) constitution.

The court queried why a presidential candidate with the highest number of lawful votes in an election should be denied victory for not securing 25 per cent votes in Abuja.

Mr Okoro explained that the court is duty-bound to give a holistic and broad interpretation to the constitution.

He said, The legislature does not intend to create injustice or absurdity by conferring a special status on residents of the FCT above Nigerians in other states of the country by insisting that a presidential candidate must secure 25 per cent of lawful votes in Abuja before been declared winner of an election.

On the issue of INECs non-compliance with the Electoral Act in the conduct of the 25 February election, the Supreme Court held that Mr Obi who came second in the race with 6.1 million votes did not prove that the allegation substantially affected the outcome of the election.

The court equally adopted its position in Atikus appeal regarding INECs failure to electronically transmit polling unit results in real-time to the IReV, in determining Mr Obis contention on the issue, among others.

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It has been almost a year since the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (CoHA) ended a two-year civil war in northern Ethiopia. The clashes inflicted grave consequences on the country, giving rise to a large-scale humanitarian crisis, mass starvation and atrocities.

The conflict saw one side comprising the Ethiopian National Defense Force, Eritrean Defense Forces, regional special forces (typically Amhara and Afar), and ethnic militias (the Fano), and another consisting of the Oromo Liberation Army and Tigray Peoples Liberation Front. Many observers deem this the deadliest conflict in the countrys recent history.

The current realignment of these forces, which is propelling the country to war, proves that bilateral peacemaking attempts failed to mitigate the conflicts. Consequently, the imperative of instituting a comprehensive peace process is now more pronounced than ever.

The signing of the CoHA between Tigrayan forces and the federal government in November 2022 ushered in a fresh dawn of optimism. The period saw commendable peacemaking initiatives. These included beginning negotiations with the Oromo Liberation Army, peace talk efforts with local armed groups in the Amhara, Benishangul and Gambela regions, launching the Transitional Justice initiative, and attempts to re-engage defectors to the National Dialogue processes.

However, it wasnt long before the country again succumbed to a full-blown conflict. As a result of the agreement, the normalisation of relations between Tigray and the Government of Ethiopia saw a simultaneous rupture between the Amhara and the federal government.

The federal governments move to reorganise regional security apparatuses to build one strong, centralised army was especially met with strong resistance from the Amhara. They claimed the decision would leave them susceptible to aggression.

The resistance, some Amhara nationalists claimed, was necessary in light of their longstanding concerns that encompass ethnic cleansing, killings of ethnic Amharas in neighbouring regions, and territorial disputes in Wolqayit and Raya Azebo.

Observers regard the instability in Amhara as locals reaction to the threats posed by neighbouring regional forces in Oromia and Tigray. Many point to mounting doubts among the Amhara about the federal governments ability to fulfil its role as a primary security provider. Beyond opposing the dismantling of the Amhara regional force, some Amhara opposition parties demanded arms provision for their brothers living in hostile regions, namely Oromia and Benishangul,

The federal governments response severely downplayed the concerns raised. Speaking at a state of emergency general command press briefing, Director-General of Ethiopias National Intelligence and Security Service, Temesgen Tiruneh, former Amhara Region president, said the unrest was a disruption of peace orchestrated by an organised robbery group.

He accused the armed groups of being enemies of the people trying to dismantle the regional government and federal system. So the government condemned the resistance as an effort to obstruct its attempts to address the populations concerns and work towards national unity.

On another front, after failed negotiations and peace talks between the federal government and the Oromo Liberation Army in Tanzania, the fight between the two parties has intensified. Though the initial discussions in early May were concluded without agreement, both parties indicated some progress was made.

Yet the parties resumed armed confrontations soon after, and the promises for continuing talks were never realised. The security situation in Oromia remains highly volatile, with recent reports indicating that the Oromo Liberation Army was expanding its turf well beyond its strongholds in the regions Western parts.

Nonetheless, there seems to be consensus from both sides on the need for peace. Though federal authorities accuse the Oromo Liberation Army of causing mayhem in the region, the army has reiterated its commitment to use peaceful means to end its decades-long insurgency. Federal authorities have also demonstrated a willingness to resolve the conflict peacefully. Still, these will remain empty words if both parties fail to implement concrete steps to build confidence.

READ ALSO:

It is crucial to foster a conducive environment for implementing a national reconciliation strategy through de-escalation, proportional and effective disarmament of regions, and local dialogue that addresses citizens real and perceived threats. Measures must be taken to ensure the participation of all major players in the ongoing national dialogue process and other peacebuilding initiatives.

The clash between the federal government and armed groups results from a confluence of factors. But at the root of it lie two reasons.

First, the ingrained mistrust among regions on the one hand, and between regions and the federal government on the other. This originates from longstanding interregional and ethnic conflicts. Disarming certain regional forces without addressing the causes of non-state rivalries will be met with resistance, as in Amharas case. Second, the design of peace processes that dont include all major players will run into problems during implementation, and cannot offer lasting peace.

Ethiopias complicated conflict landscape is characterised by an entanglement of rival factions. Responses must address both vertical conflicts (between different actors and the state) and horizontal ones (among non-state actors). The clashes since the CoHA, with the realignment of forces that were actors in the North Ethiopian war, show why an all-inclusive peace process is essential.

This calls for a thorough, context-specific mapping of actors and their grievances. That exercise can inform the design of a localised, multicultural and flexible national reconciliation strategy that brings together multiple actors to address vertical and horizontal grievances.

Fikir G Mekonen, Consultant, Moussa Soumahoro, Researcher and Zenaw Alem, Consultant, Institute for Security Studies (ISS) Addis Ababa

(This article was first published by ISS Today, a Premium Times syndication partner. We have their permission to republish).

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The Senate on Thursday confirmed the appointment of Musa Aliyu as chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC).

The Senate also confirmed the appointments of Gadji Dantata and Saka Sulieman as members of the Federal Judicial Service Commission (FJSC).

Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, announced confirmation of Mr Aliyu and the two members of the FJSC after the senators cleared them by a voice vote at the plenary.

Mr Aliyu, a lawyer and a former attorney general of Jigawa State, was separately screened at the Committee of the Whole.

He was nominated for the position on Tuesday alongside Clifford Oparaodu who will serve as the commissions secretary.

During the screening, the new ICPC chairman told the senators that he is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)-designate.

He said he had his primary education between 1983 and 1989 before enrolling to Government College, Bauchi, in 1990 for his secondary school education.

Mr Aliyu explained that he obtained his secondary school leaving certificate in 1995 and proceeded to Bayero University, Kano to study Law in 1998.

He also said he graduated from Bayero University faculty of Law in 2003 and enrolled for his law school in 2004 before he started practicing as a lawyer.

Mr Aliyu informed the senators that he is the Chairman of Human Right and Rule of Law Association and that he also belonged to many human rights and anti-corruption organisations.

Senate clears Judicial Service Commission nominees

Mrs Dantata and Mr Sulieman who appeared before the Senate for confirmation as members of the FJSC also narrated their achievements in the private and public sectors.

Mrs Dantata, a professor, said she hails from Kano State.

She told the senators that she obtained her Bachelors degree, Masters of Arts and PhD from Bayero University, Kano.

READ ALSO:

Mrs Dantata stated that she had attended many conferences and was involved in humanitarian and academic activities across the country.

She said she is a mother of five children.

The deputy senate president however directed that Mrs Dantata take a bow and go in order to ensure gender sensitivity in the screening process.

On his part, Mr Suleiman said he hails from Ifelodun Local Government area of Kwara State.

He said he attended Kwara State College of Technology now Kwara State Polytechnic.

Mr Sulieman also said he enrolled in University of Lagos in 1981 where he obtained his Bachelors degree.

None of the senators asked Mr Suleiman questions relating to his position as a member of the judicial commission before he was directed to step out of the Senate chamber.

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A PREMIUM TIMES reporter, Abdulqudus Ogundapo, has been selected for a Climate Change project of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) with support from the Public Affairs section of the US Embassy, Abuja.

Mr Ogundapo was selected alongside 14 other journalists across different newsrooms in Nigeria.

The CJID said it will mentor fellows on the climate change project to acquire the necessary knowledge, skills and tools needed to hold the government accountable for climate change issues in Nigeria.

Programme Director of CJID, Akintunde Babatunde, said in a statement on Monday, that the CJID has trained up to 100 journalists and researchers on climate change and environmental reporting this year.

This new cohort of 15 journalists/researchers, has brought the total number of journalists we have trained on climate change and environmental reporting to 100 this year alone in Nigeria and Ghana. Over the past years, we have trained over 500 in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and The Gambia, he said.

I am particularly excited about this work because we are able to host this training with the kind support of the public diplomacy department of the U.S. Embassy in Abuja.

While congratulating our new set of climate change fellows, I am happy to announce that following this workshop, we will be selecting a few fellows for investigative story grants between $700 and $1000 each to execute story ideas on climate change and environmental issues in Nigeria.

Workshop

Meanwhile, the 15 journalists participated in a three-day capacity-building workshop in Abuja to strengthen media capacity for better climate change reporting.

According to the CJID, the workshop was organised to equip the fellows with imperative knowledge, skills and tools for reporting climate change issues in the country.

READ ALSO: Niger gov tasks journalists on climate reporting

At the training, the fellows were exposed to investigative skills needed for reporting climate change and how to hold the government accountable for its actions and inactions.

The facilitators also trained the fellows on how to identify issues in climate change and call the attention of the government to the effects of climate change on the environment.

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Lawyers involved in the just-concluded presidential election appeals have expressed divergent views over Thursdays judgement of the Supreme Court validating President Bola Tinubus election.

A seven-member panel of the Supreme Court, on Thursday, dismissed the separate appeals filed by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, for lacking in merit.

The Supreme Court panel led by Inyang Okoro, after dismissing all the eight issues raised in both appeals, affirmed Mr Tinubu as the duly elected Nigerian president.

Briefly reacting to the judgement on the premises of the Supreme Court after the proceedings on Thursday, Mike Ozekhome, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and one of the leading lawyers in PDPs legal team, said in an apparent displeasure, One word: Nigeria is a work in progress.

READ ALSO:

Also reacting, Kenneth Okonkwo, a counsel for the Labour Party, criticised the judgement which he said failed to interrogate the documents submitted as evidence.

He appreciated the Justices acknowledging the importance of uploading the results to the credibility of the election.

He insisted that the failure to upload the results of the election onto IReV reduced the credibility of the election.

I disagree respectfully on the judgement, even though the decision is binding. The Supreme Court has the authority to interpret the constitution as their prerogative as an arm of government.

The only paragraph that the Supreme Court has brought to the notice of the world is that, not uploading the results on IReV reduced the confidence of the people,  he said.

A counsel for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Muhammed Inuwa, welcomed the judgement of the Supreme Court.

He said the defence appellants lawyers failed to submit necessary documents crucial to their case within the time allowed by the law.

He lauded the Justices for upholding the law.

Also speaking to journalists, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, expressed joy over the court judgement.

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A former senator from Bayelsa State, Ben Murray-Bruce, says it is a great betrayal for various Nigerian governments to continue to buy foreign-made vehicles for its officials when Innoson Motors can meet such need.

Innoson Vehicles is an indigenous automobile manufacturing company based in Nnewi, Anambra State, South-east Nigeria.

It is a mortal disservice to Nigeria to return to the regime of defending the naira with $1.5 billion monthly. But it is even more of a betrayal for our various governments to continue buying foreign-made cars for officials when Innoson Motors can meet the need, Mr Murray-Bruce said via a post on his X handle on Tuesday.

The former senator, who served in the upper chamber between June 2015 and June 2019, urged Nigerians to patronise locally made products in order to help grow the naira, which has continued to suffer reduction in value at the various markets.

As of Tuesday, N764 is exchanged for $1 in the official market. But black market rate has jumped to over N1,000 per dollar.

As a private citizen, you can buy whatever you want with your funds. Even at that, if you love Nigeria, you ought to buy made in Nigeria to grow the naira, Mr Murray-Bruce stated.

But as elected or appointed officials, our ministries, departments and agencies ought to buy made in Nigeria (products) out of obligatory duty.

The politician said there was a need for the Nigerian government to consider amending the Public Procurement Act 2007 to make patronage of local products mandatory by law.

As often as you can. When you do, you are not just buying Nigerian, you are also buying a better future for yourself, he told Nigerians.

Connecting the dots

The comment by Mr Murray-Bruce comes days after the National Assembly indicated that it would be buying operational vehicles for its 469 members at a cost above the package prescribed for the lawmakers by the Revenue Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

The federal lawmakers had rejected cheaper Sedan and Salon cars and chosen expensive SUVs in violation of the revenue package put together for them and other public office holders by the RMAFC.

The lawmakers have been criticised by many Nigerians for seeking to procure the expensive SUVs for themselves in the face of economic hardship across the country.

However, the Senate on Tuesday justified the planned purchase of the luxury vehicles, claiming the lawmakers want vehicles that will not only be durable on Nigerian roads but also be able to maintain for the period of four years.

This is not the first time the lawmakers would be ditching Made in Nigeria vehicles.

There was an outrage in 2020 when members of the House of Representatives reportedly refused to endorse Innoson cars as their official vehicles.

Unlike the lawmakers, some governors in Nigeria have continued to embrace Innoson vehicles and other made in Nigeria products.

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, for instance, has continued to use Innoson vehicles and other locally made products, since his inauguration as governor on 17 March 2022.

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Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has decried cases of age falsification within the local government system in the state.

Consequently, Mr Nwifuru said his administration would engage auditors to audit the accounts of all the local government councils in the state.

He stated these while receiving a delegation of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners who visited him on Wednesday in Abakaliki.

The governor said the development had caused discrepancies in the payment of salaries and retirement benefits within the local government system.

There is a lot of age falsification in the service, with some people falsifying their age till 70 years and above when they will no longer be productive.

They falsify their age to remain in service because there is no guarantee that they will receive their benefits when they retire.

This is what we are trying to discourage by making sure that pensioners duly receive their entitlements, he said.

According to the governor, the situation has caused salaries and pensions to increase simultaneously, saying that this was unacceptable to the government.

The state government will engage auditors to audit accounts of local government areas in the state, he said.

Mr Nwifuru said he had directed the committee on gratuity payment to state civil servants to extend the deadline until all the gratuities were cleared.

READ ALSO: Gov Nwifuru urges federal govt to investigate abandoned road projects in Ebonyi

The chairperson of Nigeria Union of Pensioners in the state, Donatus Nwofe, thanked the governor for receiving them, noting that his policies showed that he meant well for the state.

We commend you for the payment of gratuity arrears of retired workers from 1996 to 2021.

You have given Ebonyi pensioners hope with this payment, as they can presently offset their medical bills, among other needs.

They will consequently live longer and you will be appreciated with an award from the state council and the national body of the union, he said.

(NAN)

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A high-pressure discharge from an idle well in Bendick Kiri in Okpoama Kingdom, Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, has sacked residents of the neighbourhood.

The non-producing well is operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), a subsidiary of NNPCL.

Monday Okon, a resident and leader of fishermen in Bendick Kiri, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the leak, which was noticed three days earlier, was yet to stop.

Mr Okon said everybody in the predominantly fishing settlement had left due to safety concerns as they use fire to dry fish.

He said the toxic smell of the gaseous discharge had also exposed the people to danger hence their decision to flee.

We are afraid the place will be engulfed in flames because we are very close to the oil well.

If we catch fish, we cant dry them due to the risk of fire. I am here because the community asked me to stay nearby and keep an eye on the area to avoid strange people coming to tamper with our valuables.

Our fishing gear, accessories as well as processed fish and other property are precious to us; that is why I am keeping a tab from a safe distance, Mr Okon said.

Mr Okon noted that this was the third time the incident occurred but that the current leak was greater in magnitude and pressure.

The fisherman recalled that in May the 53-year-old abandoned well had leakage and was contained before it blew out again on 20 October.

Tarinyo Akono, a former chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Bayelsa State, who visited the leak site, described the well blow as intense and extremely dangerous for the people and the environment.

I was there in May this year when there was a blowout. I was there and now this sad occurrence. The livelihood of the people has been abruptly hampered.

I have called on the NPDC to do something about these wells and there are over 50 of them, to no avail. Mr Akono said.

NAN learnt that the oil well, Kurogbagba 1, is located within Oil Mining Lease (OML) 66.

The sound from the intense pressure, forcing the oil and gas out of the wellhead and polluting the environs, could be heard from over a distance.

NAN also gathered that officials of the National Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) have visited the site with representatives of the operating firm.

(NAN)

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Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, has urged all Nigerians, especially politicians, to get down to the business of rebuilding Nigeria with the final seal on the Bola Tinubu presidency as affirmed by the Supreme Court judgement.

Mr Omo-Agege said this in a statement by his Media Adviser, Sunny Areh.

The Supreme Court had earlier on Thursday dismissed the appeals filed by the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the 25 February election.

The Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) dismissed their petitions last month.

Reacting to the Supreme Court judgement, Mr Omo-Agege said the judgement had effectively ended all jostling on politics and leadership.

What the Supreme Court did is not just to affirm the validity of President Bola Tinubus mandate, but a call to duty. The learned justices saved Nigeria from unnecessary and prolonged distractions by promptly giving their verdict so that we can get down to the task of rebuilding our country.

Whatever each of the protagonists may feel, this is not a victory for President Tinubu alone or any political party. This is an admonition for us to collectively work towards fixing Nigeria again, Mr Omo-Agege said.

Mr Omo-Agege, who was the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State in the 18 March election, commended the Supreme Court and the entire judiciary for putting Nigeria first and upholding the rule of law.

One remarkable feature of our judiciary is that despite all challenges facing the country, despite all seeming uncertainties, our Supreme Court has always displayed an independent and calming disposition on the country. This is one such instance. Our justices must be commended for their service to the country.

Now is the time to jettison politics and work with President Tinubu to get Nigeria working again. It is now a matter of duty to our people. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Mr Peter Obi, their political parties and followers should think of Nigeria first, not just because the Supreme Court is the final arbiter but the higher interest of the people who we are all aspiring to serve, to support and collaborate with the President to get Nigeria back on track, he said.

The former deputy senate president thanked Mr Obi and Atiku for enriching Nigerias jurisprudence through their democratic litigations to challenge the election, noting that the electoral process would get better as a result.

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, October 26. Kyrgyzstan stressed the importance of creating the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) development bank and development fund, Trend reports.

Akylbek Japarov, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, emphasized this during an extended meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek.

He said that the discussion about establishing the SCO development bank and development fund has been ongoing for a long time.

These structures would directly support the implementation of joint projects and the gradual increase of the share of national currencies in mutual settlements among SCO member states, Japarov pointed out.

He expressed hope for reaching a consensus on this matter. Japarov also highlighted that the development of economic cooperation is a top priority.

He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation in various areas of mutual interest, including trade, manufacturing, energy, transportation, investment, finance, agriculture, customs, telecommunications, and the development of artificial intelligence technology.

Additionally, Japarov mentioned that the combined population of the SCO member countries exceeds 3.3 billion people, which accounts for over 42 percent of the world's population. The GDP based on purchasing power parity exceeds $45 trillion.

The meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek is attended by the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Premier of the State Council of China, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan, and the Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan.
President Bola Tinubu has approved N18 billion for the payment of the Group Life Assurance benefits and other entitlements to the families of fallen heroes.

Mr Tinubu announced this at the launch of the Emblem and Appeal Fund for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said the country owed a debt of gratitude to its gallant troops, who have risen to the challenge of securing the country.

In appreciation of the sacrifices of the men and women of our armed forces, and to underscore this governments commitment to their welfare, I have approved the sum of N18 billion for the payment of their Group Life Assurance.

The payment will also cater for the benefits and other entitlements to the families of service members who lost their lives in the line of duty.

I also call on businesses to key into this patriotic spirit and support our service personnel, whether in the form of preferential treatment, discounts, or rebates on goods and services.

Mr Tinubu assured that his administration would continue to reposition and strengthen all Nigerian security agencies.

Its a commitment that we must take seriously. Our foremost objective is to provide a conducive environment, free from threats and criminalities, to enable all who reside within our borders to thrive and live in peace, he said.

Mr Tinubu noted that Defence Health Maintenance Ltd. (DHML), was living up to its expectation in providing healthcare services to veterans.

But we will do more. Equally important is the expansion of its services through the establishment of zonal and state offices and regular sensitization programmes.

As a government, we will continue to prioritise the provision of quality healthcare services to our esteemed veterans and citizens.

He commended the Nigerian Legion, under the coordination and supervision of the Ministry of Defence, saying It continues to be a rallying point for veterans, to cater for the welfare of their ailing members.

I enjoin the leadership of the Nigerian Legion to continue in this spirit and as its Grand Patron, I wish to pledge my full support and that of the federal government.

He appreciated state governors and patrons in their respective states, for the support they give to the Nigerian Legion,

The president urged them not to relent, but to improve on their efforts.

He also encouraged government agencies at the federal and state levels to continue to patronise the services of the Nigerian Legion in the provision of security and other administrative services.

The potential of our ex-servicemen remains enormous and can indeed be tapped for national development.

The emblem remains a symbol of remembrance and a beacon of hope for a peaceful future in this country.

It is also our humble way of appreciating the veterans and the families of their fallen colleagues.

I therefore wish to call on all Nigerians and non-Nigerians residing in the country, irrespective of their political affiliation or religious belief, to adorn the emblem with pride, and identify with those who laid down their lives for the peace and security of our dear country.

Mr Tinubu also encouraged donors to contribute generously and support veterans and families of fallen heroes.

On his part, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, appreciated fallen heroes for the enormous sacrifices they made for the country.

For the services they offered to keep our nation together, the president, leading other members of the Federal Executive Council, the service chiefs and the Minister of Defence, commemorate this day every year.

Also, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Musa, said that the event signified the concern and appreciation of the Tinubu government for the sacrifice of the Armed Forces.

Because of their sacrifices, we have a lot of widows, a lot of orphans and those without breadwinners, saying This for us is significant because it tells us that we have not been forgotten.

And then it also serves as a morale booster to those of them still in service that whatever it is that happens to you, the nation is solidly behind you, Mr Musa, a general said.

Similarly, Abdulmalik Jubril, a retired major general and National Chairman, the Nigerian Legion, said I feel highly fulfilled with the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu, for launching the emblem for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

It is gratifying to note the huge turnout of people at the event, the pledges and contributions made in order to help the families of the fallen heroes.

We are, therefore, very gratified with this achievement today. Its very memorable for us.

(NAN)

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Four months after adopting new farming technology, farmers across communities in Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, on Wednesday, gathered in the Assakio community to celebrate their harvest.

The farmers, both women and men, who are into rice production on a small scale, assembled to narrate the effectiveness of a new climate-smart model of farming they were exposed to four months ago by officials of Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA)a Japanese firm walking with the farmers to improve crop yield and their livelihoods.

The farmers told PREMIUM TIMES that they were exposed to new rice farming technologies described as Bokashi and Biochar to decarbonise rice farms in the state amidst climate change effects such as drought and flooding.

According to the SAA Program Assistant on Regenerative Agriculture, Mariam Aliyu, the primary aim of introducing the technologies to rice farmers in Nasarawa State is to help amend depleted soils and reduce carbon emissions from rice fields.

She explained that the farmers were trained in May this year and that the soil amendment technologies serve more-or-less as organic manure to the soil which helps improve the structure and other soil properties required for crop production.

They also help retain soil moisture and increase fertility over a long period, she told PREMIUM TIMES in an interview.

Ms Aliyu explained that the materials required for the technology are affordable and readily available to farmers.

For the preparation of Bokashi, she listed the materials required to include rice husk, fermented dairy products, fruit waste, and yeast.

These, she said, are mixed, and allowed to decompose in an airtight container, hence helping to improve soil condition for farming and curb usage of inorganic fertilisers.

On the other hand, the farmer said Biochar is made by burning rice husks under pyrolysis burning in the absence of oxygen.

After attaining the required burning level of the rice husk, the set-up is allowed to cool and further activated with either compost, animal manure or bokashi, she said.

Farmers used bokashi with biochar by mixing and incorporating it on the farmland during land preparation, Ms Aliyu said.

On his part, Ibrahim Fagge, Technical Coordinator, Regenerative Agriculture SAA Nigeria, said nutrients in soils being used for cultivation have depleted due to continuous cropping over the years, hence the reason for exposing farmers to Regenerative Agricultural practices in Nigeria.

Continuous planting of cereals over the years are taking a lot of nutrients from the soils and they are not adding any value to the soils, he said.

To address this challenge, Mr Fagge said farmers were exposed to several Regenerative Agricultural practices such as intercropping of leguminous crops (Cowpea) together with cereals (rice, sorghum, millet, maize) in the different farming systems.

Farmers reaction

The excited farmers were eager to share their experiences from the implementation of the new farming practices they were exposed to in the early stages of this years planting season. Those who spoke to this newspaper in the Assakio community eulogised the sustainable agriculture systems they adopted.

The farmers displayed their harvest in large bags consisting of rice paddies and maize awaiting off-takers.

We were exposed to the modern ways of farming and we have achieved a lot of things from the training, Abahia James, a rice farmer, told PREMIUM TIMES.

Most of the farmers who shared their experiences with this medium said they were trained on better agronomic practices such as fertiliser application, proper seed planting methods ( transplanting), and decarbonisation of their rice fields.

Before now, the farmer said they were planting rice through the broadcasting method but that changed after the training.

We were meant to understand that the broadcasting method is a waste of seedlings and time. Sasakawa asked us to adopt a transplanting system and the result is amazing, Mr James said.

Before the training, the farmer said he used to harvest a maximum of 18 bags of rice paddies from his plot farm, but this year was different.

As we speak, I have harvested over 22 bags and people are in my farm threshing more rice as I speak to you, he said.

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The Oyomesi in Council, whose members also serve as the kingmakers of Oyo town, has dragged Governor Seyi Makinde to court over the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo.

According to a report by The Punch, suit HOY/38/2023 was filed by five kingmakers who asked the Oyo State High Court in Oyo to restrain the governor and his agents from aborting the process for the selection/appointment of the candidate for filling the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo duly conducted by the kingmakers of Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy.

The claimants in the suit are the Bashorun of Oyo, High Chief Yusuf Layinka; Lagunna of Oyo, High Chief Wakeel Oyedepo; Akinniku of Oyo, High Chief Amusa Yusuf; Areago Bashorun, Chief Wahab Oyetunji; and the Alapo of Oyo, Chief Gbadebo Mufutau.

They also listed the Oyo State Attorney-General and the states Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs as defendants in the suit.

The kingmakers said they had at a meeting on September 30, unanimously selected a prince, Lukuman Gbadegesin, to fill the stool of Alaafin of Oyo, which had become vacant since April last year when the 45th Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi died.

They are praying the court to restrain Governor Makinde and his agents from nullifying the choice of Mr Gbadegesin and approving or recognising any other candidate as the next Alaafin after a duly conducted process for the filling of the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo in accordance with the native law, custom and Chieftaincy Declaration of Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy.

The kingmakers also want the court to restrain the governor and the other defendants from removing them as Oyo kingmakers or dissolving the Oyomesi in Council or appointing or selecting warrant chiefs to conduct or start a fresh process for the filling of the vacant stool of Alaafin of Oyo.

They want the court to restrain the defendants from harassing, disturbing, preventing or stopping the claimants from carrying on their traditional functions and responsibilities as kingmakers of Alaafin of Oyo Chieftaincy.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had grilled some of the Oyo kingmakers on October 18 over allegations of bribery in relation to the selection of the next Alaafin.

A petitioner had alleged that the kingmakers collected bribes running into millions of naira to facilitate the selection of Mr Gbadegesin.

The court is yet to announce a date for the hearing of the fresh suit filed by the kingmakers.

The development came after the state high court nullified the selection and installation of Afolabi Olaoye as the Soun of Ogbomoso.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says it is disappointed with the judgement of the Supreme Court affirming President Bola Tinubu as winner of the 25 February presidential election, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The PDP expressed its position in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, in Abuja on Thursday, in reaction to the court judgment on the appeal petition filed by the party and its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, on the election.

Mr Ologunagba said that the PDP and indeed majority of Nigerians were alarmed, disappointed and gravely concerned with the reasoning of the Supreme Court.

He said the PDP believed the judgement was against the express provisions of the Constitution, the Electoral Act and the Guideline and Regulation issued by INEC under which the election was conducted.

The PDP asserts that it is indeed a sad commentary for our democracy that the Supreme Court failed to uphold the provisions of the law.

Instead, it trashed the expectation of the majority of Nigerians who looked up to it as a temple of impartiality to deliver substantial justice in the matter having regards to the laws and facts of the case.

Nigerians earnestly expected the Supreme Court to uphold and defend the clear provisions of the 1999 Constitution in terms of qualification and minimum requirement for a winner to be declared in a presidential election in Nigeria.

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This is especially with regards to the required statutory 25 per cent of votes in the FCT as well as issues of violation of electoral Rules and Guidelines, brazen manipulations and alterations of election results by the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Ologunagba said.

He said Nigerians were still at a loss as to how the Supreme Court condoned the serious issues of forgery, falsehood and perjury on the altar of technicalities, he said.

Mr Ologunagba said that the general gloom, melancholy and sense of despondency across the country upon the delivery of the judgment was an ominous sign of an eerie situation which portend consequences because of the disappointment embedded in the judgment.

This judgement by the Supreme Court has evidently shaken the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary, especially the Supreme Court as the last hope of the common man, he stated.

Mr Ologunagba, however, declared that the PDP remained undeterred.

He charged Nigerians not to be discouraged or allow the judgement to detract from their collective quest for the entrenchment of a credible electoral system that could guarantee a government that derives its legitimacy from the people.

(NAN)

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The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has applauded the Supreme Court judgement affirming the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the 25 February presidential election.

Mr Ganduje said this in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, on Thursday in Abuja.

He said the judgement had laid to rest all claims by the opposition parties that the outcome of the presidential poll was manipulated in favour of Mr Tinubu.

He said that the Supreme Court verdict would pave the way for Mr Tinubu to concentrate on implementing the Renewed Hope mandate of the APC for the benefit of Nigerians.

He called on the presidential candidates of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and that of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, to bury the hatchet.

The APC national chairman specifically asked Atiku and Mr Obi to join hands with Mr Tinubu to reposition the country for sustainable growth and development.

Nigeria belongs to all of us, it is our responsibility as patriots to pool our resources together to move the country forward, he said.

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He congratulated both Atiku and Mr Obi for their dogged fight in extending the frontiers of our democracy and law.

This is democracy; Tinubus victory is another victory for democratic rule in the country.

There is still room for both Obi and Atiku to actualise their presidential aspiration after the second tenure of Tinubu in 2031, Mr Ganduje said.

He called on Nigerians, irrespective of political leanings to rally round the president to ensure that he delivered more dividends of democracy and move the country on the path of sustainable progress.

(NAN)

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops have eliminated more than 100 terrorists in air interdictions carried out on the border between Niger and Zamfara states.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, a major general, made this known on Thursday in Abuja while giving an update on military operations across the country in the last one week.

Showing the battle damage assessment pictures of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) air interdictions, he said the operations also decimated many insurgents in other parts of the country.

Mr Buba said the military in a surgical operation targeted at the residence of an ISWAP terrorist commander in Niger, made several arrests and discoveries.

He said that other operations conducted in the last one week by troops in various theatres, killed 73 terrorists and led to the arrest of 182 others.

According to him, the troops also arrested 14 suspected oil thieves, and rescued 68 hostages in the South-south, as well as denied oil thieves an estimated N1.212 billion from the illicit business.

Furthermore, troops recovered 119 assorted weapons and 1,537 assorted ammunition.

The breakdown is as follows: one GPMG, three PKT guns, 39 AK47 rifles, five locally fabricated rifles, one locally made double barrel gun, one Beretta pistol, four locally made pistols, five RPG bombs and five pump action guns, he said.

Also recovered were one short gun, one hand grenade, two dane guns, one AK47 rifle loaded with 14 rounds of 7.62mm special, and one locally made pistol loaded with live cartridges.

Others are 586 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, a bag containing 287 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 389 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 141 rounds of 7.62mm special (belted) ammo, 12 rounds of 9mm ammo.

Also, 113 rounds of live cartridges, 25 empty magazines, 13 vehicles, 3 motorcycles, 10 mobile phones, 2 HH radio, one boafeng radio and the sum of N3.3 million amongst other items, he said.

In the North-east, Mr Buba said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI killed 39 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, arrested 22, rescued 18 hostages and recovered a large cache of arms.

In the North-central, the troops of Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke killed 12 terrorists, arrested 109, rescued 22 kidnapped hostages and recovered several arms and ammunition, he added.

In North-west, Mr Buba said the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji neutralised 10 terrorists, arrested 11, and rescued 11 hostages, while the troops of Operation Whirl Punch killed three terrorists, arrested 38, and rescued 12 hostages.

He also gave an update on the operation in the Niger Delta, where troops of Operation Delta Safe, destroyed 63 illegal refining sites and recovered stolen products.

Troops discovered and destroyed 15 dugout pits, 45 boats, 87 storage tanks, 13 vehicles, 127 cooking ovens, one pumping machine, four outboard engines and 63 illegal refining sites.

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Troops recovered 962,500 litres of stolen crude oil; 35,420 litres of illegally refined AGO and 38,450 litres of DPK.

Troops also neutralised one criminal, apprehended 14 suspected oil thieves and recovered one locally made double barrel, one Beretta pistol loaded with cartridges, one locally made pistol, five rounds of 9mm ammo, three live cartridges and two mobile amongst others, he said.

In the South-east, Mr Buba said the troops of operation UDO KA killed three terrorists, arrested nine suspected criminals and rescued three hostages.

Troops recovered four locally made pistols, 48 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, six rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, one motorcycle, one HH radio and the sum of N22,100 among others.

All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action, the defence spokesperson said.

(NAN)

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The Royal Court of Justice in London, United Kingdom (UK) on Monday said Nigeria wrongly tagged a former Lagos State Commissioner of Justice, Olasupo Shasore, as a corrupt official in the arbitration between the government and the Process & Industrial Development Limited (P&ID).

For years, during the litigation in the United Kingdom, the Nigerian government and its lawyers accused Mr Shasore of not pursuing the governments case diligently and constantly pushing for a settlement.

The government accused him of accepting bribes from the P&ID to compromise Nigerias stance. He was also accused of being in the know about the leaking of Nigerias Internal Legal Documents to P&ID, which helped them monitor Nigerias moves during the arbitration.

These ultimately presented him as a counsel who worked against his country and client in the arbitration that almost cost Nigeria about half its 2023 budget.

Mr Shasore was eventually charged before a Nigerian court by the Nigerian government.

Not shown to be corrupt  Court

But the British court said Mr Shasore, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has not been shown to be corrupt, clearing him of the infamous tag, he had endured for years.

Delivering the judgement that saved Nigeria from an $11 billion payment to P&ID, Robin Knowles, the High Court judge, said Mr Shasores action through the arbitration did not show that he was corrupt or compromised. Instead, it showed he worked in favour of Nigeria, the judge said.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the court also indicted P&ID for improper retention of Nigerias Internal Legal Documents.

Mr Shasore SAN has not, in my judgement, been shown to be corrupt. His actions are inconsistent with Nigerias theory that he was, the judge said, enumerating reasons why.

He said Mr Shasores advice to Nigeria to investigate, allow expert evidence to be obtained, and proceed in a timely fashion, was sound and constant.

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He (Mr Shasore) assisted Nigeria to succeed in its applications to the Nigerian Court. Third, his participation in the various settlement discussions helped reduce the figures, Mr Knowles said.

He added that a review of the transcript of the hearing on liability revealed that he repeatedly challenged P&ID at the tribunal, noting it is impossible to read pages 55-59 and 68-71 of that transcript as other than properly attempting through argument to secure an outcome in favour of Nigeria.

The judge, however, blamed Nigerian officials whom he said Mr Shasore pressed repeatedly.

He said: The account given in this judgment shows that responsibility for failures to obtain evidence and to avoid delay lay rather with many ministers and officials, whom Mr Shasore SAN and others (including Stephenson Harwood and Mr Cordara QC at one stage) pressed repeatedly.

The judge went further to note that Nigeria, specifically the former Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, also a SAN, did not believe Mr Shasore SAN was corrupt.

If he did, he wouldnt have in the following years engaged Mr Shasore to represent Nigeria in another arbitration, the judge said.

The court also said Nigeria does not have enough evidence to substantiate its allegations that alongside Mr Shasore, its other lawyers worked against their client (Nigeria).

The other lawyers include Ibrahim Dikko, then legal director at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources; Hafsat Belgore, assistant legal adviser at the Ministry; Folakemi Adelore, director of Legal Services at the NNPC; and Ikechukwu Oguine, coordinator of Legal Services and Secretary to the NNPC.

there was insufficient evidence at this trial that they were bribed by P&ID. The evidence shows nothing in the conduct by Ms Adelore and Mr Oguine of Nigerias case that casts doubt on the level or honesty of their efforts whilst Director of Legal Services to the Ministry and General Counsel to NNPC, Mr Knowles said.

Back story

In 2012, P&ID accused Nigeria of failing to fulfil its end of the bargain of the Gas Supply Purchasing Agreement (GSPA) contract it entered with the company in 2010.

According to the agreement that was later shown to be controversial, P&ID was to build and operate an Accelerated Gas Development project at Adiabo in the Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State while the Nigerian government sources natural gas from oil mining leases (OMLs) 123 and 67 operated by Addax Petroleum and supply to P&ID to refine into fuel suitable for power generation in the country.

However, P&ID alleged that the Nigerian government reneged on its obligation after negotiations were opened with the Cross River State government for the allocation of land for the project, leading to an arbitration that would last more than a decade.

In 2014, Nigerias former Attorney General, Mohammed Adoke, contracted Mr Shasore as the leading counsel to represent Nigeria in the arbitration between the country and P&ID, which was still in its early stages. Mr Shasore was paid $2 million for the first and second stages of the arbitration.

In 2017, P&ID won the case and a tribunal ordered Nigeria to pay $6.6 billion to P&ID with an interest that had accumulated to over $11 billion before the latest verdict.

But the government accused Mr Shasore and other lawyers on its team of colluding with P&ID to sabotage the arbitration.

Last year, the EFCC sued him on accusations of money laundering by paying $100,000 cash to Ms Adelore through Auwalu Habu and Wole Aboderin. He pleaded not guilty to the charges and in October last year was granted bail by the Federal High Court in Lagos.

It is not clear if the EFCC will still proceed with the trial in the aftermath of the British court ruling.

Qosim Suleiman is a reporter at Premium Times in partnership with Report for the World, which matches local newsrooms with talented emerging journalists to report on under-covered issues around the globe

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Former President Muhammadu Buhari has described the Supreme Court judgement affirming the election of President Bola Tinubu as a welcome relief to him and many Nigerians.

Mr Buhari stated this in a statement posted by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, on his (Shehu) X handle on Thursday.

The Supreme Court had earlier in the day dismissed the appeals filed by the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, against Mr Tinubus victory at the 25 February election.

The Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC) had last month dismissed the petitions of the two opposition candidates.

The statement said, The former President repeated what he said on the earlier 6 September verdict of the Presidential Election Petition Court, which affirmed President @officialABATs victory, that the welcome decision is a reaffirmation of the will of the majority of the people against the determined will of a hard-fighting minority.

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Now that we have arrived at the last bus-stop, after a tortuous 8-months of expensive legal journey, the nation deserves a break. The opposition has fought a good fight. Having now exhausted their rights as constitutionally allowed, they should take the hand of fellowship extended by the Tinubu/Shettima @OfficialAPCNg government. Let them allow the Government to run their administration and the people to enjoy the full benefits of the promises the All Progressives Congress (APC) made.

Mr Buhari expressed concern over low voting percentages all over the country, especially in urban areas, and said this should change, given the acceptance and vibrancy of democracy in Nigeria.

He wished President Tinubu and his team a successful term in office.

Mr Buhari handed over power to Mr Tinubu on 29 May.

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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), on Thursday, destroyed fake and expired goods worth over N16 billion in Sagamu, in Ogun State.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the exercise took place at Oke-Diya dumpsite.

In a speech, the Director-General of the agency, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the exercise was part of the agencys renewed efforts to rid the country of unwholesome regulated products in order to safeguard the health of the populace.

Mrs Adeyeye, represented by the agencys Director of Investigation and Enforcement, Francis Ononiwu, said the exercise had become necessary to prevent the re-introduction of the products into the market.

Affected products

The NAFDAC boss said the affected products included sub-standard and falsified medical products, unwholesome processed food additives, unsafe cosmetics and counterfeits as well as other NAFDAC regulated products.

She said some of the products were seized by the agency from manufacturers, importers and distributors.

She said: Also up for destruction today are damaged and expired products, voluntarily handed over to the agency by compliant companies, trade unions and non-governmental organisations.

NAFDAC has been charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the health of the nation is safegurded.

As such, it is committed to eliminating expired medical products, ilicit drugs, unwholesome foods, chemicals and other violative products.

Arrest

Mrs Adeyeye said no fewer than 66 arrests had been made from about 50 raids carried out by the agency against hawkers of drugs across the nation since the beginning of the year.

She also said products, like codeine, cough syrups, tramadol capsules, aphrodisiacs, analgesics, antibiotics and antimalaria drugs, worth N8 million, peddled by hawkers, had also been confiscated by the agency during the same period.

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She recalled a recent arrest of one Sunday Chibuike, who she said was charged to court by the agency for producing unregistered alcoholic beverages.

She said Mr Chibuike was concocting alcoholic drinks laced with marijuana and other harmful ingredients, which were packaged and sold as Japata bitters in Iyana-Ipaja area of Lagos State.

This act is extremely callous and worrisome because of the health implications which includes pseudo hallucination, impairement of reflexes, acute psychosis, altered brain development and impaired motor coordination, among others, she said.

She, therefore, appealed to Nigerians to shun drug peddlers on the streets and patronise registered medicine stores.

I hereby appeal to community leaders, religious leaders, health practitioners, newsmen and others to continue to educate their wards and family members to desist from patronising quacks and peddlers of medicine on the streets, she said.

The NAFDAC boss, who commended the judiciary for its continued support, advocated stiffer sanctions to check the menace because of the dangers it continued to pose to the society.

She urged the National Assembly to speedily pass the Counterfeit Medical Products Bill to strengthen the agencys fight against counterfeiting in the country.

She also appreciated the support and collaboration from the Nigeria Customs Service, Police, NDLEA, DSS and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

She assured Nigerians that NAFDAC would not relent in its effort to rid the country of sub-standard and falsified medicines and other unwholesome regulated products.

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For Nigeria to meet the United Nations target of ending AIDS by 2030, there is need for increased demand for HIV testing, treatment, and care services, said the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Gambo Aliyu.

Mr Aliyu made this known at a two-day workshop for social media influencers, bloggers, and journalists in Abuja on Thursday.

Mr Aliyu said the fight to end AIDS has been on for a long time and its time people understand that fighting HIV begins with them.

He said although the world has yet to discover a cure for HIV, it is no longer a death sentence and can be managed successfully.

He said people have been living with this virus; some for the last 30 years and some for more than 30 years.

People should understand that if you have HIV today, you can walk into our facility and demand HIV service; you are not only doing good to yourself but to us all because you are helping us to control the spread of the virus, he said.

We want people to begin to demand for HIV services instead of us going after people and looking for them to get tested and treated.

Mr Aliyu noted that the agency has succeeded in reducing HIV from the disease that kills to the disease that no longer kills.

People live with the virus for a long time, if you look at our data, you will find out that the vast population of people living with the virus are those around the age of 34 to 49 years and this is easy to explain. In the last 20 years, we have succeeded in reducing HIV from a disease that kills to a disease that no longer kills.

Engaging media influencers

Mr Aliyu said although the agency has had the opportunity to engage different population groups, one group that has been hard to find is adolescents and young persons.

The NACA boss said he believes social media influencers and journalists can create a connection with this group of young persons who are most vulnerable to the virus.

We believe social media influencers will help us connect to this important population the way we want to be connected with and that is why we decided to reach out so they can understand the message and differentiate between the real news and the fake news, he said.

In her remark, the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Protocol Division of the agency, Toyin Aderibigbe, said social media plays a crucial role in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS and combating stigma and discrimination.

Mrs Aderibigbe said this can be achieved by equipping people with adequate knowledge to help reduce the spread of fake news, misinformation, and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS and other related diseases.

The aim of organising this workshop is to solicit your support in achieving this mission by being our advocates on social media and traditional media platforms in ending AIDS by the year 2030, she said.

We believe this is achievable if we all play our role.

2030 target

In 2014, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS  UNAIDS  and other foreign partners launched the 90-90-90 strategy which is an ambitious target to help end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. The aim was to diagnose 90 per cent of all HIV-positive persons, provide Antiretroviral Therapy (ARTs) for 90 per cent of those diagnosed, and achieve viral load suppression for 90 per cent of those treated by 2020.

By December 2020, UNAIDS released a new set of ambitious targets calling for 95 per cent of all people living with HIV to know their HIV status, 95 per cent of all people with diagnosed HIV infection to receive sustained antiretroviral therapy and 95 per cent of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy to have viral suppression by 2025.

Mr Aliyu, NACA DG, said Nigeria is on track to meet this target and end AIDs by the year 2030.

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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, October 26. Kyrgyzstan has put forward a proposal to establish a common economic market within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), based on modern innovative development principles, Trend reports.

Akylbek Japarov, the Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan, presented this idea during an extended meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek.

Japarov explained that this market's purpose is to create favorable conditions for sustainable socio-economic development in the region.

Additionally, he stressed that improving the transportation system among SCO member states would attract more international transit traffic, significantly boosting trade between these countries.

"In this context, I want to emphasize the ongoing progress of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway project, which will link the East and West along the China-Western Asia-Europe route," he said.

Japarov also mentioned that the plan for cooperation among railway administrations in SCO countries, currently under approval, will enhance transit transportation. Additionally, he highlighted efforts to strengthen cooperation in e-commerce, electronic customs, and electronic logistics.

The meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek is attended by the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Premier of the State Council of China, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan, and the Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan.
Two things happened recently that should make us rethink the direction Nigeria should go with regards to the laws that govern us as a nation and the electoral law that guide the conduct of elections in the country.

Former INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jegas opinion that the electoral laws should be amended and the revelation that Federal Executive Council would now hold only at the instance of the president, in addition to the long-forgotten agitation for restructuring and true federalism form the fulcrum of this article.

Until the last eight years, the agitation for restructuring of the federation had been ferocious. The meltdown began when those hitherto in the vanguard of the campaign found themselves at the corridors of power after they came together to unseat the PDP government of 16 years in 2015. To underscore their demand, part of the campaign manifestoes of the APC as enshrined in their constitution was to promote true federalism/restructuring and devolution of powers. After taking over the reins of power, the new government was reluctant to act on their pact with the Nigerian people.

Thinking that change was still in the offing, Nigerians variously pestered the new government until President Buhari set up the 23-man El-Rufai committee to address the issue of restructuring. The committee submitted its report in January 2018. Unfortunately, the governing party (or is it President Buhari?) lacked the political will to implement what it (he) initiated. And the matter died a natural death.

Five years down the line, APC was voted back-to-back, and President Tinubu, once in the forefront of the fight was elected president. These days no one talks about restructuring, a national conference to determine the wrongs in our constitution, and existence as a nation, and how to coexist as a people, willingly or otherwise. Although the National Assembly did make some amendments to the constitution, it is not far-reaching enough to positively impact the polity.

Almost all the NADECO activists and CSOs that confronted previous governments on the germane issues of our togetherness, to be or not to be now hide in their cocoons. No one talks about true federalism and restructuring again because its a new day and a new government of ex-agitators of true federalism. Is Nigeria no longer an accident of history, and the constitution not a military contraption as we were inundated by these politicians cum activists?

Jegas timely intervention added fillip to the need for continuous reforms of our electoral system. The former INEC boss called for further amendment of the electoral law at a retreat organized for senators in Akwa Ibom recently. He said the appointment of INEC chairman and commissioners should not be left in the hands of the president to avoid compromise on the part of the appointees. Review the process of appointments into INEC, specifically to divest or minimize the involvement of the president in the appointment of chairman and National Commissioners of INEC, to free the commission from the damaging negative perception of he who pays the piper dictates the tune, as contained even in the abandoned Justice Uwais Committee report.

Jega also called for the reform of the electoral law to make electronic transmission of results mandatory, diaspora voting, inclusivity for women and proscription of cross-carpeting by elected officials. I dare add that the amendments should include disposing of all election-related litigations before swearing-in of elected officials. This will stop influence peddlers already sworn-in from buying their way out of iminent judicial defeat.

Apart from conceding that INEC top decision makers can be influenced by the president, who appoint them, approximating good governance, and service delivery should be about the people of Nigeria and not the appointing executive. Therefore, all relevant laws, including the electoral Act should be amended in the nations interest.

Changes, amendments and reforms generally are for posterity, and the betterment of society and not for the satisfaction of those who lust after power. And like Richard Buckminster Fuller said: To change something, build a new model that makes the existing (one) obsolete.

The powers vested in the president is enormous and therefore open to abuse. From time to time, we see a good dose of it. Before last weeks meeting, the Federal Executive Council meeting did not hold in over six weeks. In response, the presidents minders revealed that, going forward, FEC meetings which have conventionally been held weekly in 24 years of this republic would now hold when there are compelling reasons for it. This is not good enough.

However, after this development, pro-government commentators struggled hard to justify an obvious anomaly. To think that the all-important FEC where appointed ministers in conjunction with the president and his team in the Executive take decisions that affect the lives of over 200 million people will hold when there is a pressing need is to abdicate responsibilities. The needs of over 200 million people should be a daily priority for government. Although this was meant to deflect reactions to six weeks of lull without FEC after initial inauguration, it should be known that FEC is a constitutional provision. Even though the same constitution does not indicate time and frequency, it should not be trivialized and should not be at the behest of an individuals convenience.

Article 144 (5) of the Constitution recognizes the executive Council of the Federation (the Federal Council) as the body of ministers of the Government of the Federation, howsoever called, established by the President and charged with such responsibilities for the functions of government as the President. So how does government function if its instrument (FEC), holds on needs basis? FEC is constitutional, which directs that meeting be held regularly, without indicating how regular. The constitution should be amended to include regularity and to debar government officials from evading it over flimsy excuses.

Governance is a serious business and continuous work. And reforming existing law can at best strengthen the governance system, enhance policies, and help with proper coordination of the activities of government. Recall that it took President Buhari almost six months to appoint ministers. However, the constitution was amended by the last National Assembly to accommodate only two months within which the president should constitute his cabinet. This, President Tinubu did. The work (good or bad) done in the last 5 months would have been lost to such a delay.

Zainab Suleiman Okino is a syndicated columnist and reachable via zainabokino@gmail.com

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The Tertiary Education Trust Fund has unveiled a Beneficiary Identity Management Service to simplify and enhance the identification and management of students and lecturers across educational institutions in the country.

The platform, according to the Minister of Education, Professor Tahir Mamman, at an educational summit recently in Abuja, is a convergence of world-class and globally renowned educational resources aimed at reshaping the nations higher education landscape.

He maintained that BIMS is set to revolutionise the way students access educational services and more, being the gateway for accreditation and authorisation to access the Tertiary Education Research Applications and Services platform.

The countless benefits that TERAS promises to bring to educators, students, and the entire educational community are awe-inspiring and must be fully exploited.

Some of the benefits of BIMS include streamlined enrollment and identification processes; Enhanced data security and accuracy; Personalised learning experiences; Access to tailored educational services; Improved communication between students and educational institutions, the minister stated.

Meanwhile, in his remark, the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Sonny Echono, shed light on the historical significance of the TERAS platform, which was born out of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

TERAS, he explained, has been meticulously designed to integrate various essential components, and at its core is the BIMS.

In this report, PUNCH highlights the step-by-step guide on accessing the BIMS platform.

Step 1: Contact Your Institutions ICT Director

The journey to activate your BIMS ID begins by reaching out to the Director of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) at your educational institution. This is the first step towards getting onboarded into the BIMS system. The ICT Director will guide you through the process and provide the necessary information to proceed.

Step 2: Receive Your BIMS ID, Email, and Password Details

Once your institution has onboarded you into the BIMS system, you will receive an email containing your BIMS ID, email address, and password details. Keep these credentials safe, as they are your keys to unlock a host of services offered by TETFund.

Step 3: Visit Bims.tetfund.gov.ng

With your login credentials in hand, visit the BIMS website at Bims.tetfund.gov.ng. This is where youll enter your BIMS ID and password to access your account. Make sure to verify your email address during this step to ensure that your account is associated with the correct contact information.

Step 4: Update Your Profile

To fully utilise the BIMS system, its essential to provide all the necessary information. Update your profile with accurate details, including your address and phone number. This information helps in ensuring that you receive important notifications and have a seamless experience within the BIMS ecosystem.

Step 5: Change Your Password

As an additional security measure, consider changing your password to something more favorable. A strong, unique password is crucial for protecting your account from unauthorized access.

6. Finalisation On Account

Once youve successfully registered and activated your BIMS ID, you gain access to a wide range of incredible services offered by TETFund. These services can simplify your educational journey and improve your experience as a student.

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Amidst the threat of energy transition and dwindling funding of the hydrocarbon industry, 18 member countries of the African Petroleum Producers Organisation (APPO) are attending the third edition of the Africa Local Content Roundtable to chart a pathway for the sustainable development of local content and the oil and gas industry inthe continent.

The two-day event is being hosted by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) in Abuja and the theme is Enhancing Local Content Development and Deployment in African Oil and Gas Industry.

In his keynote address at the event on Wednesday, the Executive Secretary, NCDMB, Simbi Kesiye Wabote charged the delegates to come up with strategies that would enhance research and development within the continent and leverage additional funding sources to overcome the challenges bedeviling the oil and gas industry in the continent.

He harped on the need to take advantage of existing opportunities such as the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) which has created a 1.3 billion people market. He challenged the participants to come up with suggestions on how to optimally leverage cross-border partnerships towards developing and implementing local content as well as overcoming the funding challenge for member countries.

Mr Wabote noted that the APPO Roundtable had assembled key players, stakeholders, and experts in the African oil and gas sector to address pertinent issues and explore solutions that drive the growth and development of the industry, adding that they should equally use the forum to discuss how best to leverage the continents vast natural resources for the benefit of her people.

While noting that the development of regulatory framework, human capacity development, research and development as well as manufacturing, funding, and cross-border partnerships are pressing needs for immediate action, he urged the participants to lead the way into a new era of local content development and implementation within the African oil and gas industry.

The NCDMB boss further remarked that since its maiden edition in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, the African Local Content Roundtable has continued to play an important role in advancing local content development across Africa by raising awareness of its importance, formulating supportive policies, and ultimately strengthening the capabilities of local players across the oil and gas value chain.

In his address, the Secretary General of APPO, Omar Farouk Ibrahim stated that African oil producers must be allowed to use their hydrocarbon resources to get out of poverty. He underscored the fact that energy is the biggest catalyst for the transformation of Africa and hydrocarbon resources must not be abandoned if Africa would achieve energy security.

Mr Ibrahim identified funding, technological expertise, and access to the market as major challenges that APPO is developing strategies to overcome to make the continent self-reliant. Essentially, Africa did not explore and produce oil and gas for Africans but for other regions that is why despite the incomes that our countries have made from the resources, we are still dependent on foreign investments to do oil and gas business in Africa.

He highlighted APPOs commitment to changing the situation, adding that Africa must be allowed to use the readily available sources of energy to change the narrative and get to the level of the developed countries. We must be allowed to use it and lift the living conditions of our people and get them out of poverty, he insisted.

He remarked that individual efforts of African nations might not suffice, but collective action as a Continent, as exemplified by the roundtable, holds the key to success.

In his address, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri observed that APPOs collective duty revolves around the responsible management of the oil and gas sector, hinting that collaboration would engender sustainability.

Mr Lokpobiri added that the primary goal of this engagement is to enhance understanding of how to improve our future and the collaboration expected to yield significant economic benefits for our Continent. The overarching objective is to achieve tangible growth and ensure energy security within our oil and gas industry.The Minister requested that the insights and recommendations from the event be collated, to guide participating nations toward enhancing local content and driving socio-economic development.

The yearly series of the roundtable was conceived and first hosted by the NCDMB at the Nigerian Content Tower in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State in June 2021 and was subsequently institutionalised as an APPO project following the huge success of the inaugural edition.

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The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, says the state is presently sponsoring about 2,600 postgraduate students studying in universities in 14 countries.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor said this on Thursday at the opening of the First EU Study Fair in Africa, at the Afficent Event Centre, Kano.

Mr Yusuf said his administration would partner with relevant stakeholders, including European countries to open more educational opportunities for the people of the state.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Aminu Gwarzo, said his government would make sure students in the state explore these opportunities maximally.

Mr Yusuf said the staging of the fair was timely, especially given the commitment of his administration to the development of the education sector, and the huge youth population in the state.

READ ALSO:

He said his administration had taken measures to address the challenges in the education sector and had developed the modalities to get about one million out-of-school children in the state back to school.

To address these challenges, my administration embarked on re-boarding all the de-boarded secondary schools, as well as providing all the needed infrastructure and working materials aimed at uplifting the standard of education in the state, he said.

Earlier, the European Union (EU) Ambassador in Nigeria, Samuel Isopi, said Kano was chosen for the fair because of its population and being the melting point of different cultures and traditions.

Mr Isopi said that the EU was amenable to collaboration, so that Nigerians especially students from the Northern part of the country, could gain admission and scholarships to study in Europe.

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A state High Court in Enugu, on Thursday, ruled as unlawful the 2017 proscription of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) which led to the separatist group being declared a terrorist organisation by the Nigerian government.

The judge, A.O. Onovo, in his judgment, declared that the reliance on the countrys Terrorism Prevention Act and the administrative action of the South-east Governors Forum and the federal government to proscribe IPOB contravened Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution which prohibits discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, according to a statement from Aloy Ejimakor, a special counsel to Nnamdi Kanu and IPOB.

The IPOB leader, Mr Kanu, filed the suit in January 2023 against the Nigerian government and the South-East Governors Forum.

Other respondents were the President of Nigeria, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Governor of Ebonyi State.

Mr Ejimakor and five other lawyers represented Mr Kanu, while the respondents were represented by Simon Enoch.

Justice Onovo ruled that the proscription of IPOB was also a violation of Mr Kanus fundamental rights as enshrined under Articles 2,3,19 and 20 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Enforcement and Ratification) Act.

The court, which ordered the Nigerian government to publicly apologise to Mr Kanu, declared that self-determination was not a crime, and therefore, cannot be used as a basis to arrest, detain and prosecute the IPOB leader.

It ordered the federal government and the other respondents to jointly pay Mr Kanu N8 billion as damages for the physical, mental, emotional, psychological, property and other damages he suffered as a result of the infringements of his fundamental rights.

The Nigerian government has repeatedly accused IPOB of being responsible for the frequent attacks in the South-east region which have led to the loss of several lives and destruction of property but the group has denied the accusation.

Mr Kanu, accused of terrorism, is being detained by Nigerias secret police, SSS, in Abuja, while the countrys security agencies, including the army, continue to clamp down on suspected IPOB members in the South-east.

Landmark victory

Mr Ejimakor told reporters outside the courtroom that the court judgment was a landmark victory for Mr Kanu and IPOB.

We didnt come to court to contest the judicial proscription, its a different matter altogether, but the executive action taken before the judicial decision because such actions are prohibited under Section 42 of the Nigerian Constitution, he said.

The lawyer said that IPOB caters for the interest of the Igboland, and that the government singled it out for proscription.

There is a proliferation of ethnic organisations, some of them are very evidently violent. But the federal government never took any step at all to either proscribe any one of them or to declare any one of them a terrorist group, but it took these proactive steps, supported by South-east governors, in targeting IPOB particularly.

You can make this allegation in the media and beer parlours but if you dont take them to court to be adjudicated, they remain mere allegations. So we decided to test the wrongness or rightness of this action taken against IPOB in court. And we did, and we prevailed today to the glory of God, he said.

Mr Enoch, the lawyer to the respondents, declined comment on the development when PREMIUM TIMES contacted him.

I dont have a copy of the court judgment, so I dont have any authorisation to speak on it, he said.

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( Read 1992 Times)

Shri Ganganagar : Under the chairmanship of the District Election Officer, Shri Anshdeep, a meeting was organized on Wednesday in the district collectorate's auditorium with business and social organizations to discuss sweep activities for official voting.

*During the meeting, the District Election Officer highlighted the necessity of ensuring that every voter in the district casts their vote. Various sweep activities are being organized to make voters aware so that Shri Ganganagar district can achieve its goal of more than 85% voter turnout. Stickers will be placed on bags, food containers, and daily-use items to inspire voters.*

*The Deputy District Election Officer, Shri Arvind Jakhar, addressed questions from business owners and encouraged them to actively participate in the voting process. He also familiarized business owners with the latest guidelines from the Election Commission regarding unauthorized cash transport.*

*He appealed to everyone to adhere to the established guidelines and provided information on home voting for voters aged 80 and above in the Assembly elections. He also informed bus drivers and conductors about the option of postal ballots.*

*The Sweep Nodal Officer and CEO of the District Council, Shri Bhavani Singh Panwar, explained that chairs will be available for divyang (physically challenged) and elderly voters at polling stations where space permits.*

*Representatives from business associations, including Shri Dharmaveer Dudeja, Shri Kalicharan Agarwal, Shri Ashutosh Gupta, Shri Raja Nagpal, and Shri Prashant Kalra, expressed their commitment to supporting voter awareness activities.*

*In attendance were also the DSO, Shri Suresh Kumar, Shri Vijendra Pal, and Shrimati Pooja Agarwal, the Inspection Officer of Karanpur, along with Shri Raman Kumar Asija from the Sweep Division.*

Source :
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan, October 26. Tajikistan's Prime Minister, Kokhir Rasulzoda, suggested speeding up the efforts to launch six new road routes for car transportation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Trend reports.

He made this statement, while addressing the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting held in Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek.

"We believe it is necessary to instruct the transportation authorities and the joint commission established under the agreement to create favorable conditions for international road transportation to intensify efforts for the prompt launch of these six international road routes," Rasulzoda said.

He further emphasized that Tajikistan consistently supports the implementation of previously adopted SCO documents in this direction, including the establishment of a unified transportation system and the creation of international logistics centers. He stressed the importance of utilizing the transit potential of all SCO member states.

A document to open six new routes for the transportation of goods from eastern China to Central Asian countries and Russia was signed in Dushanbe in 2014 and came into effect in January 2017. One of these routes is expected to pass through Tajikistan.

The meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek is attended by the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Premier of the State Council of China, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan, and the Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan.
AACHEN, Germany and AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- TREW Marketing and Elektor have joined forces to provide never-before-seen insights about marketing to engineers and particularly technical buyers in Europe. The report, "Decoding Engineer Preferences," provides a new, comprehensive analysis of engineer preferences and technical buying behavior. It will be supported with an exclusive webinar on November 9, 2023 (16:00 CET).

2023 TREW + Elektor European Research Webinar v3

The report offers need-to-know information for anyone marketing to engineers. Readers will benefit from unique and practical insights about how engineers interact with things like paid search ads, their preferred sources of information, and the types of content they find most valuable for work-related purchases. This cooperation between TREW Marketing, the US-based leading experts in engineer engagement, and Elektor, Europe's leading engineering community, truly offers the best of both worlds  highly useful research from a relevant and representative group of more than 1,200 technical buyers in Europe.

The November 9 webinar will be hosted by Erik Jansen, Managing Director of Elektor, and Wendy Covey, CEO of TREW Marketing. Together, they will present the highlights of this European-focused survey, and Wendy Covey will also offer some insightful comparisons to the State of Marketing to Engineers research released earlier this year. In one hour, Covey and Jansen will share results, highlight both similarities and differences, and provide attendees with a holistic view of engineer preferences when marketed to.

Some first highlights from the survey include:

58% of engineers avoid paid search links when searching online, but 29% will click if the paid link appears helpful.

Technical publications (online) and supplier/vendor websites are the primary sources engineers turn to when researching products.

Datasheets (86%) are overwhelmingly named as the most valuable content in decision-making, before Technical Articles (60%) and Product Reviews/Testimonials (50%).

On a scale from 1 (no trust) to 10 (complete trust), engineers rate their trust in AI-based tools at 4.14.).

The webinar will also feature an interactive Q&A session where attendees can engage with the experts and dive deeper into the survey findings.

"We're thrilled to use our unique market position to share these insights with our community and clients," said Jansen. "Collaborating with the experienced team at TREW Marketing has not only added immense value to the report but has also been a rewarding experience for the Elektor team."

"Understanding engineer preferences is pivotal for businesses looking to tailor their marketing strategies effectively," Covey added. "This collaboration allows us to offer a global perspective on engineer behavior, empowering businesses to make informed decisions and strengthen their marketing efforts."

Direct registration for the webinar is available at http://www.elektormagazine.com/dep.

About TREW Marketing: TREW Marketing specializes in marketing to engineers and technical buyers. For over 25 years, they have helped hundreds of highly technical companies build trust and fill their pipelines through inbound marketing. Learn more at https://www.trewmarketing.com.

About Elektor: Elektor is a leading international source of electronic engineering knowledge and innovation. We serve professional engineers, pro makers, students, enthusiasts and companies seeking to engage with them. At Elektor we believe that innovations in electronics will ultimately lead to a better world. We want to enable those who are as passionate as we are to contribute to this by facilitating practical knowledge, innovations, and support. We aim to inspire with a practical, hands-on approach. Making electronics accessible, that's our mission. https://www.elektormagazine.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2255985/2023_TREW_and_Elektor_European_Research_Webinar.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1937335/Logo_Elektor_Logo.jpg

Press contact:

Udo Bormann

Marketing

marketing@elektor.com

Elektor International Media

SOURCE Elektor International Media; TREW Marketing
DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "3rd Spanish Aviation Forum" conference has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The conference sessions will provide the platform for high level debate, exchange of ideas and information as well as extensive networking opportunities for aviation executives from Spain and around the world who will discuss a variety of topics.

Participating companies will represent operators and manufacturers, safety and security experts, financing companies, and sectors such as insurance, software technology, airport infrastructure and other areas that contribute to the development of commercial aviation in Spain.

This international event will explore the latest developments in the commercial aviation sector of Spain

Spain at the crossroads of Europe , South America and Africa

at the crossroads of , and Financing and leasing aircraft and engines

Fleet management, maintenance and operations

Aviation sustainability

Speakers

Montserrat Barriga Andres , Director General, European Regions Airline Association

, Director General, European Regions Airline Association Inaki Azcoitia , Director - Commercial, Managing Partner, Alisios Aviation

, Director - Commercial, Managing Partner, Alisios Aviation Arnold Aumasson, VP Marketing & Business Development, Aircraft Maintenance Systems RD

Matthew Gee , Chief Operating Officer, Six West

, Chief Operating Officer, Six West Gonzalo Ibarra , CEO, Ibarra Aero Charges

, CEO, Ibarra Aero Charges Adrian Iordache , Principal Solicitor and Director, Consortium Legal

, Principal Solicitor and Director, Consortium Legal Robert Ricketts , Partner, Holland & Knight

, Partner, & Knight Jan Willem Storm van 's Gravesande, Managing Partner, Aviation Independent Consulting

's Gravesande, Managing Partner, Aviation Independent Consulting Fergal Whelan-Porter , Chief Executive Officer, Aeolus Engine Services

, Chief Executive Officer, Aeolus Engine Services Senior Representative of Airbus Corporate Jets

Senior Representative of Vertis

For more information about this conference visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/5c24ik

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
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready for an enchanting celebration as 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square, presented by KIA,' returns on October 28, 2023.

The Festival of Diwali is all about sharing happiness and showing your love and respect for your family, friends, and the community they live in. Diwali celebration serves as a powerful symbol of unity, bridging cultural ties and fostering diversity.

A Celebration of Unity, Diversity, and NYC Diwali School Holiday! Diwali at Times Square Post this A Celebration of Unity, Diversity, and New York City Diwali School Holiday! Get ready for an enchanting celebration as 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square, presented by KIA,' returns on October 28, 2023.

The Diwali festival in Times Square continues its tradition since 2013, bringing together the rich tapestry of Indian culture right to the heart of New York City, Times Square.

This year, we are celebrating the Diversity of India and America through a diverse range of performances representing various communities, including South Asian, Indo-Caribbean, Dominican Folk Dance, and Afro Latino groups. It's a testament to the cultural mosaic that is New York City.

We're thrilled to announce that we'll be celebrating NYC Diwali School Holiday. New York City school children are getting ready to perform a special dance segment in Times Square on October 28th. Thanks to the relentless efforts of NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Indian-origin State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar.

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar strongly believes that "The South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities are a vital part of our city's gorgeous mosaic. It is a long past time to honor their vibrant cultural heritage by making Diwali a school holiday."

NYC Mayor Eric Adams describes the Diwali festival: "We deal with so much darkness that is around us; we fail to realize the overwhelming amount of light that is around us. And when we take this period to acknowledge Diwali, we are acknowledging the light that is within us, the light that can clearly push away darkness, and that is why this is so significant."

The founder of Diwali at Times Square, Neeta Bhasin, emphasizes the importance of educating children about their roots, culture, and traditions from an early age. She believes that the annual Diwali festival in Times Square plays a pivotal role in connecting children with the festival's significance and fostering a peaceful and harmonious world.

During Diwali, people decorate their homes and share sweets and gifts with their friends and loved ones. Our Title Sponsor, Gopi Dairy, aligns perfectly with the tradition of spreading sweetness and joy.

Title Sponsor of Diwali at Times Square, the CEO of Gopi Dairy, Rostom Baghdassarian, said, "Gopi Dairy is proud to sponsor 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square 2023', a festival rooted in peace, new beginnings, and the human values of gratitude and humility. At Gopi, we're honored to have been part of your daily lives for over a decade, delivering pure dairy products from our family to yours. This is an historic moment for us all to celebrate the universal festival of light and joy!"

Our Presenting Partner, KIA, aligns perfectly with the spirit of this day, symbolizing the prosperity and success they bring to our lives.

Join us in this celebration of unity, culture, and diversity at 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square,' presented by KIA, on October 28th, 2023.

Contact:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-216-9305/516-343-0181

SOURCE Diwali at Times Square
MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shanghai-based renewable energy company AIKO made a grand debut at the All-Energy exhibition in Melbourne, Australia on Oct 25 with its cutting-edge solar cell products, which captured attentions from global visitors.

The exhibition, one of Australia's largest, highlights cutting-edge renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies from around the world. AIKO unveiled its products for the first time in the Australia as part of its efforts to expand the country's market.

AIKO Australia exhibition booth scene

One of its spotlights is the ultra-efficient ABC (All Back Contact) structure cells and component products, which were independently developed by AIKO.

This type of solar photovoltaic panel can generate more electricity on the same surface area, compared with traditional front surface contact structure cells, with the highest efficiency reaching 24 percent.

Founded in 2009, AIKO is an international player in solar cell manufacturing and in providing photovoltaic energy integrated solutions, with products sold in South Korea, Japan, India and Europe.

In the new era of global energy transformation, the company has been making efforts in technological innovation to support the construction of a new energy system around the globe to contribute to the overall goal of global carbon neutrality, said AIKO Chairman Chen Gang.

In alignment with the Australian market and customer demands, the company has enhanced the efficiency and reliability of its solar cell technology.

The ABC double glass solar component utilizes dual-glass encapsulation technology, building upon the core strengths of the ABC single glass component, enhancing its properties in terms of barrier, moisture resistance, and fire retardance. It comes with a 25-year product quality warranty and a 30-year power quality warranty.

The ABC structure cells can fully meet the needs of middle and high-end users from the aspects of beautiful appearance, structural safety, convenient installation, high utilization rate and more power generation.

AIKO is working to expand its overseas market by exporting its products and set up subsidiaries in foreign countries. As of the first half of 2023, AIKO has set up subsidiary companies in nine countries, including Germany, Netherlands, UK, Italy, Singapore, and Japan. The company also continues to expand its global sales network in regions spanning Europe, Asia, Oceania. The company's entrance into the Australian market is a significant step in its global expansion efforts, showcasing its commitment to international growth.

SOURCE AIKO
ZURICH, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Amcor (NYSE: AMCR, ASX: AMC), a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions, announced today that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SK Geo Centric (SK), a leading petrochemical company based in South Korea, to source advanced recycled material primarily in the Asia Pacific region beginning in 2025.

The MOU with SK will enable Amcor to provide access to packaging solutions using recycled content for food and healthcare customers in key markets in Asia Pacific, as well as globally, building on Amcor's existing global access to advanced recycled material through ExxonMobil, as well as its recent investment with Licella in Australia. Combined, these partnerships will help Amcor take another important step toward achieving its target of 30% recycled content across its portfolio by 2030.

"Our ability to deliver more sustainable packaging solutions containing recycled material is increasingly important to customers in all consumer categories," said Mike Cash, president of Amcor Flexibles Asia Pacific. "These partnerships will help enable Amcor to unlock opportunities for food and healthcare customers to leverage recycled content in their packaging, and will also foster a circular economy by significantly reducing the need for virgin plastic."

SK Geo Centric CEO Na Kyung-soo said, "We are committed to contributing to a circular economy by expanding the supply chain where pyrolysis oil, produced from end-of-life plastic, can provide recycled content in consumer packaging. Providing Amcor with access to that material is an important step forward."

SK extracts pyrolysis oil from end-of-life plastic waste that would otherwise be sent to landfill. SK is using post-processing technology the company developed. This can then replace crude oil as a feedstock for petrochemical processes and subsequently polyethylene to make new sustainable packaging materials for our customers.

About Amcor

Amcor is a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions across a variety of materials for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, medical, home and personal-care, and other products. Amcor works with leading companies around the world to protect their products and the people who rely on them, differentiate brands, and improve supply chains through a range of flexible and rigid packaging, specialty cartons, closures, and services. The company is focused on making packaging that is increasingly lighter weight, recyclable and reusable, and made using an increasing amount of recycled content. In fiscal year 2023, 41,000 Amcor people generated $14.7 billion in annual sales from operations that span 218 locations in 41 countries. NYSE: AMCR; ASX: AMC

www.amcor.com I LinkedIn I Facebook I YouTube

SOURCE Amcor
Six Nonprofit Leaders Nationwide Chosen for Advancing Opportunities

DENVER, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cheryl Crazy Bull, President and CEO of the Denver-based American Indian College Fund, was named a Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Social Equality Awardee (NBSE). Bank of American recognized six individual leaders from across the country who serve as catalysts in advancing social equality and economic opportunity by breaking barriers and creating opportunities.

Cheryl Crazy Bull, President and CEO of the American Indian College Fund

Each awardee was given the opportunity to direct a $200,000 grant to a nonprofit of their choice and their selected organizations can participate in the company's year-long Neighborhood Builders Leadership Program, which provides strategic growth and development training for long-term success. The American Indian College Fund was chosen by Crazy Bull.

Cheryl Crazy Bull said, "It is an honor to be recognized along with other activists who build community and opportunity through race and equity work. When I am recognized for my equity work, I am reminded that my ancestors valued commitment to transforming education systems that were deliberately designed to eliminate identity and destroy our ways of living. The prayers and dreams of my ancestors give me the strength to work for that transformation for our students today and for future generations."

Cheryl Crazy Bull Wacinyanpi Win (They Depend on Her) is a member of the Sicangu Lakota Nation and the President and CEO of the American Indian College Fund, one of the nation's largest non-profits supporting Native student access to higher education. She is an expert in education and has dedicated her life-long career to expanding Indigenous higher education equity and place-based education. Crazy Bull is also a member of nonprofit organization boards, including IllumiNative, an organization whose mission is creating an accurate narrative about Indigenous people; the Native Ways Federation, a national association of Native non-profits; the State Higher Education Executive Officers Organization (SHEEO) Equity Advisory Committee; and the Brookings Institution.

NBSE is an extension of Bank of America's signature philanthropic program, Neighborhood Builders, one of the largest and longest-standing philanthropic investments into nonprofit leadership development in the nation. This year, the bank also made a $24 million investment in support of nonprofit leadership and sustainability through Neighborhood Builders and Neighborhood Champions. Since 2004, Bank of America has invested more than $300 million in nearly 100 communities across the U.S., partnered with more than 1,600 nonprofits, and helped more than 3,000 nonprofit leaders strengthen their leadership skills through the Neighborhood Builders and Champions program.

"We want to recognize, celebrate and empower the leaders and nonprofits driving progress for the diverse communities where we all live and serve," said Ebony Thomas, president, Bank of America Charitable Foundation. "We are inspired by the work these individuals and organizations do to break barriers and create opportunities on behalf of others in sustainable and innovative ways."

Last year, the bank provided nearly $360 million in philanthropic investments to help drive economic mobility in the communities we serve, including nearly $100 million in support of workforce development and jobs, $80 million for community development and affordable housing, and more than $90 million for basic needs, including nearly $4 million for natural disaster and humanitarian needs.

About Bank of America Bank of America is one of the world's leading financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving approximately 68 million consumer and small business clients with approximately 3,900 retail financial centers, approximately 15,000 ATMs (automated teller machines) and award-winning digital banking with approximately 57 million verified digital users. Bank of America is a global leader in wealth management, corporate and investment banking and trading across a broad range of asset classes, serving corporations, governments, institutions and individuals around the world. Bank of America offers industry-leading support to approximately 4 million small business households through a suite of innovative, easy-to-use online products and services. The company serves clients through operations across the United States, its territories and more than 35 countries. Bank of America Corporation stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: BAC).

About the American Indian College Fund  The American Indian College Fund has been the nation's largest charity supporting Native higher education for 34 years. The College Fund believes "Education is the answer" and provided $17.4 million in scholarships and other direct student support to American Indian students in 2022-23. Since its founding in 1989 the College Fund has provided more than $319 million in scholarships, programs, community, and tribal college support. The College Fund also supports a variety of academic and support programs at the nation's 35 accredited tribal colleges and universities, which are located on or near Indian reservations, ensuring students have the tools to graduate and succeed in their careers. The College Fund consistently receives top ratings from independent charity evaluators and is one of the nation's top 100 charities named to the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance. For more information about the American Indian College Fund, please visit www.collegefund.org .

Journalists The American Indian College Fund does not use the acronym AICF. On second reference, please use the College Fund.

Photo: Cheryl Crazy Bull, President and CEO, American Indian College Fund.

SOURCE American Indian College Fund
AALBORG, Denmark, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Asetek will release its financial results for the third quarter of 2023 on Thursday, 2 November at 12:00 CET.

CEO Andre Sloth Eriksen and CFO Peter Dam Madsen will present the Company's results at 14:00 CET and invite investors, analysts and media to join the presentation. The presentation is expected to last up to one hour, including Q&A, and can be followed via live webcast or conference call.

Webcast - audio and slide presentation:

Please join the results webcast via the following link: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/874100850

Conference call - audio only:

Please dial in 5-10 minutes prior using the phone numbers and confirmation code below:

Denmark: +45 32 74 07 10 USA: +1 646 307 1963 Germany +49 6958 996 4217 Norway: +47 57 98 94 30 UK: +44 20 3481 4247



Conference ID: 4233834

The third quarter 2023 earnings release and presentation will be made available online at www.asetek.com and www.newsweb.no, as well as through news agencies.

A recorded version of the presentation will be made available at www.asetek.com approximately two hours after the presentation has concluded.

Q&A: The conference call lines will be opened for participants to ask question at the end of the presentation. Questions can also be submitted through the online webcast during the presentation.

For further information, please contact:

Peter Madsen, Chief Financial Officer

Mobile: +45 2080 7200

E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

About Asetek:

Asetek (ASTK), a global leader in mechatronic innovation, is a Danish garage-to-stock-exchange success story. Founded in 2000, Asetek established its innovative position as the leading OEM developer and producer of the all-in-one liquid cooler for all major PC & Enthusiast gaming brands. In 2013, Asetek went public while expanding into energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions for data centers. In 2021, Asetek introduced its line of products for next level immersive SimSports gaming

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE Asetek
Aged in Tequila Barrels in Northern Mexico, Only Six Barrels Available For Purchase Worldwide

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Los Magos Sotol , the most-awarded sotol brand and leader in its spirit category, officially launched its highly anticipated 6 Year Reserva . The new Los Magos 6 Year Reserva was distilled by the late fifth generation sotolero, Don Celso Jacquez, with only six barrels produced and in existence today.

Ethically sourced and wild-harvested from the sotol (Dasylirion) plant native to Northern Mexico, the new Los Magos 6 Year Reserva is devoid of additives, offering a 42% ABV with a distinctive flavor profile that pays homage to the Chihuahuan Desert with notes of vanilla, clove, cinnamon, allspice, and cardamom.

"[...] the 6 Year Reserva [remarkably] preserves the flavors of its native land, and this is only the beginning." Post this

"We have officially entered a new dimension of Mexican spirit culture, and sotol, which is currently on track in becoming the next hot Mexican spirit, is leading the charge," explains Ryan Stock, CEO of Los Magos. "Seeing how well the 6 Year Reserva preserves the flavors of its native land is remarkable, and this is only the beginning."

Los Magos' 6 Year Reserva has already received six awards for its blend and innovation at prestigious judging events, including San Francisco Spirits Competition 2022, Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2022, and Las Vegas Spirits Awards 2022.

"Los Magos is honored to pay tribute to the legacy of fifth generation sotolero, Don Celso, with our 6 Year Reserva," shares Los Magos' Co-Founder and Mexico native, Juan Pablo Carvajal. "His impact on the sotol community will continue to live on through this spirit where tradition, innovation, and friendship converge."

Los Magos 6 Year Reserva is now available for purchase at LosMagosSotol.com and from select retailers nationwide. For more information, visit LosMagosSotol.com and follow @LosMagosSotol on Instagram.

About Los Magos

In 2014, Los Magos was co-founded by two natives of Chihuahua with a mission to create the best sotol in the world. Their innovative artisanal approach aimed to unite people through a new industry spirit. Since then, Los Magos has become the top award-winning sotol brand, favored by global tastemakers. Its expansion from Mexico to the U.S. market in 2021 represents a cross-border collaboration embodying a shared respect for the land and humanity, with a diverse team working as neighbors and friends to share something extraordinary with the world.

SOURCE Los Magos Spirits International Inc.
Veteran Multifamily Executive Brings Passion for Team-Building to Growing Apartment Operator

COPPELL, Texas, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Birchstone Residential , a culture-based property management company focused on creating great places to live, today announced the addition of multifamily veteran April Royal as vice president of property management. Royal will oversee regional and onsite operations across Birchstone's portfolio of 14,000 apartment homes in Florida, Georgia, Texas and North Carolina.

Royal brings more than 25 years of multifamily management experience to her new role. Prior to joining Birchstone, she was the vice president of Capstone Real Estate Services' multifamily operation.

"April is a proven leader with a passion for operations and an inspiring commitment to superior customer service for residents and associates alike," said David Deitz, president of Birchstone Residential. "Her warm, transparent leadership style and 'roll-up-her-sleeves' attitude make her a great addition to our team. April's gift for strategy and team-building perfectly positions Birchstone for success as we continue to grow our portfolio while providing residents with exceptional living experiences."

Royal's extensive career in multifamily includes work with conventional, tax credit, student housing and active adult apartment communities. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Apartment Association of Tarrant County (Texas) and is on the path to become president of the association in 2026. Prior to her tenure at Capstone, she served in regional leadership roles at Knightvest Management, WRH Realty Services, Miles Properties and Flagship Properties Corp.

"Birchstone is a growing, dynamic company, and I am profoundly energized by the opportunity to play an important leadership role in its ongoing expansion and evolution," Royal said. "Building and supporting high-functioning teams and delivering best-in-class living experiences is my passion, and I look forward to working with Birchstone's talented associates to do just that."

About Birchstone Residential

Birchstone Residential is the in-house property management company of Ashcroft Capital. It has a comprehensive property management platform that provides all essential services, including leasing, maintenance and construction management. Birchstone was purpose-built to execute the value-add business plan for each Ashcroft property, optimize financial returns and deliver high resident satisfaction. Committed to a people-centric culture and employee development through job training, job enrichment and accelerated development, Birchstone seeks to provide best-in-class service that attracts new residents and enriches the lifestyles of current residents.

About Ashcroft Capital

Founded in 2015, Ashcroft Capital is a vertically integrated multifamily investment firm that currently owns and manages 14,000 units  totaling $2.7 billion in value  throughout several high-growth metros of the Sun Belt. The firm focuses on capital preservation while striving to return strong, risk-adjusted cash-on-cash to investors. Ashcroft is capitalized with high net worth, family office and institutional capital. Ashcroft specializes in value-add multifamily real estate and exhibits an expertise in extracting maximum value from every asset it acquires. Rather than attempting to play cycle timing, the firm strives to acquire excellent apartment communities within well-located submarkets of large and growing U.S. metros. Ashcroft is driven by a focused mission to improve the quality of life of the residents at each community in its portfolio.

Media Contact

Stephen Ursery

LinnellTaylor Marketing

[email protected]

303.682.3945

SOURCE Birchstone Residential
ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, October 26. Turkmenistan and the EU discussed the expansion of partnership in the fields of energy, Trend reports.

These concerns were discussed during the EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting by Turkmen Foreign Minister Rashid Meredov and EU Commissioner for International Partnership Jutta Urpilainen.

According to Turkmenistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting's main focus was on the energy sector, including hydrogen energy, methane emissions reduction, and natural gas processing.

Meredov cited Turkmenistan's successful collaboration with the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) in the realm of hydrogen and methane research as an example.

The parties emphasized the necessity of taking a systematic approach to energy projects and defining a roadmap for future collaboration.

At the same time, the parties discussed Turkmenistan's progress toward membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The EU Commissioner emphasized the EU's willingness to provide technical help to Turkmenistan, given its goal for WTO membership and ongoing reforms.

Meanwhile, Luxembourg hosted the 19th EU-Central Asia Ministerial Meeting on October 23, which was attended by delegates from all Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The major goal of this gathering was to explore cooperative concerns and find answers to present challenges.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- World-renowned contemporary artist Michael Carson is known for his dynamic and expressive figurative paintings on panel, with nondescript, abstract backgrounds that highlight the emotions and gestures of his subjects. For the first time in nearly 20 years, Carson is revisiting canvas in a brand new collection that will be unveiled at Bonner David Galleries Scottsdale on December 1st.

Michael Carson, 2023, Chandra, 18x23"

Canvas was first used by Venetian painters during the early Italian Renaissance, who found it more suitable than panel for the humid climate. Originally made from tightly woven hemp, they also discovered that canvas was more readily available, less likely to crack or warp, lighter and easier to transport, and offered greater versatility in size and texture. By the 16th century, the use of canvas had spread throughout Spain and Northern Europe and later to North America, superseding panel as the dominant medium and contributing to a significant change in the art world forever.

Michael Carson's new collection is inspired by the possibilities of this rediscovered surface. He experiments with the varied texture of the canvas and plays with scale, leading to both subtle and unexpected changes in the workincluding the introduction of a number of large, multi-figured compositions.

In the 20 years that Michael Carson has been represented by Bonner David Galleries, his art and technique have continued to evolve, and his career continues to ascend to new heightsincluding being recently chosen as the in-house artist for the new Global Ambassador Hotel in Phoenix, which is slated to open in early December..

For the first time in two years, he returns to Scottsdale with his new collection, "Canvassing", which will be exhibited at Bonner David Galleries from December 1st to December 30th. Don't miss this opportunity to see Michael Carson's stunning new works on canvas.

"Canvassing"

New Works by Michael Carson

December 1-30, 2023

Opening Reception: Friday, December 1st

Time: 6:00-9:00 pm

Location: Bonner David Galleries

7040 E Main Street

Scottsdale, AZ 85251

About Bonner David Galleries

In 2002, Christi Bonner Manuelito and Clark David Olson embarked on a journey to create an "outside the box" gallery concept, and Bonner David Galleries was born. Today, it's one of largest and most respected galleries in Scottsdale, representing a hand-picked collection of some of today's most well-known and gifted contemporary and traditional artists. In 2020, Bonner David Galleries opened a second gallery on the Upper East Side in Manhattan that also features both contemporary and traditional works, just steps away from The Metropolitan Museum of Art, and in 2022, Bonner David Galleries Scottsdale celebrated its 20th Anniversary.

Please contact us at +1-480-941-8500 or [email protected] for more information on the exhibition, to schedule an interview, or for full press kit, including high-res images, bios and social media-ready materials.

Note: Michael Carson retains all copyright to his artwork. The work may not be reproduced or redistributed, either in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of Bonner David Galleries or the artist.

SOURCE Bonner David Galleries
Proven physician leader to serve as executive vice president, chief information officer and national IT leader for The Permanente Federation

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Permanente Federation today announced that it has appointed Brian Hoberman, MD, to its National Permanente Leadership Team as executive vice president and chief information officer and national information technology leader.

Brian Hoberman, MD, Executive Vice President, Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, The Permanente Federation; Chief Information Officer, The Permanente Medical Group (PRNewsfoto/The Permanente Federation)

In his new national leadership role, Dr. Hoberman assumes a broad set of governance and leadership responsibilities for information technology in care delivery. This includes oversight of current technology assets, making appropriate investments in new technology and advancing technology risk management efforts, including cybersecurity and vendor relations. The position involves collaboration with national, regional, and medical center leaders and staff across all Kaiser Permanente entities.

In addition, Dr. Hoberman serves as chief information officer for The Permanente Medical Group (TPMG), helping to direct the information technology used by 10,000 Permanente physicians and 45,000 staff in the practice of Permanente Medicine throughout Northern California.

"The Permanente Medical Groups lead the nation in developing and implementing technology-based innovations that help us to deliver high-quality medical care," said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, The Permanente Federation's co-CEO and CEO and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. "Dr. Hoberman's proven leadership on strategic projects and partnerships has led to better care and more accessible information for our members and patients while improving performance across the organization. His expertise, vision and passion will take us to the next level of health care transformation."

Dr. Hoberman led the development and deployment of Kaiser Permanente's inpatient electronic medical record, Kaiser Permanente HealthConnect, starting in 2003, for which he received a Sidney Garfield Exceptional Contribution award from TPMG in 2010. KP HealthConnect links all aspects of important member information, from recent office visits and lab test results to prescription refills and billing. It also enhances care coordination among Permanente physicians and between members and their physicians. He has served as the Permanente Medical Group national leader of KP HealthConnect since 2016.

He also chairs the National Product Council, which governs selection of medical products and devices across Kaiser Permanente.

Dr. Hoberman received his bachelor's degree in political economy at Williams College, a master's in business administration at Harvard Business School, and his medical degree at the University of California, San Francisco. He completed his internal medicine residency at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco and joined TPMG in 1997 as one of the first hospitalists at Kaiser Permanente San Francisco.

To learn more about Permanente Medicine, visit permanente.org.

About the Permanente Medical Groups

The Permanente Medical Groups are self-governed, physician-led, prepaid, multispecialty medical groups composed of nearly 24,000 physicians. We are dedicated to the mission of improving the health of our patients and communities. Together with the Kaiser Foundation Health Plans and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, we are Kaiser Permanente  an award-winning health care system that delivers Permanente Medicine to more than 12.7 million Kaiser Permanente members. We work collaboratively, enabled by state-of-the-art facilities and technology, to provide preventive and world-class complex care in eight states  from Hawaii to Maryland  and the District of Columbia.

About The Permanente Federation

The Permanente Federation LLC (the Federation) is the national leadership and consulting organization for the eight Permanente Medical Groups (PMGs), which, together with the Kaiser Foundation Health Plans and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, comprise Kaiser Permanente. The Federation works on behalf of the PMGs to optimize care delivery and spread Permanente Medicine  medicine that is person- and family-centered, compassionate, evidence-based, technology-enabled, culturally responsive, team-delivered and physician-led. The Federation, based in Oakland, California, fosters an open learning environment and accelerates research, innovation and performance improvements across the PMGs to expand the reach of Kaiser Permanente's integrated care delivery model and to lead the nation in transforming care delivery.

SOURCE The Permanente Federation
New leaders will work with other members of Capital Group's management committee to deliver on the firm's long-term strategy

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Capital Group Board of Directors elected Mike Gitlin as President and Chief Executive Officer, Martin Romo as Chairman and Chief Investment Officer, and Jody Jonsson as Vice Chair of Capital Group. As previously announced, Tim Armour will retire as Chairman and CEO and Rob Lovelace will step down as Vice Chair and President, remaining at Capital Group as a portfolio manager.

As President and CEO, Gitlin will work with other senior leaders across Capital to drive and execute on the company's long-term strategy and deliver strong, long-term investment results and superior client experiences.

Romo will work with Capital's investment professionals to deliver on client commitments and ensure that The Capital System -- Capital's differentiated investment process -- continues to operate at the highest level as it seeks to deliver superior long-term investment results for clients.

Jonsson will continue as President of Capital Research Management Company (CRMC) and Chair of the CRMC Executive Committee. In addition, she will help develop and drive strategic vision and execution, with a focus on stakeholder and industry engagement while maintaining her current investor responsibilities.

"The new leadership team will set Capital Group up for continued future success," said outgoing Chairman and CEO Tim Armour. "The collective expertise and vision of Mike, Martin and Jody will propel our company forward and continue our legacy of a deep commitment to clients and a mission to provide investment results that improve people's lives over the long-term."

Armour will retire at the end of 2023 after a 40-year career at Capital Group.

The leadership team will work with other members of Capital Group's management committee which sets, communicates, and implements Capital's global business strategies, while protecting and promoting its distinct culture.

"Capital is a mission-led organization. Martin, Jody and I have a strong partnership and share a steadfast commitment to delivering superior long-term investment results and service to our clients," new President and CEO Mike Gitlin said. "We thank Tim for his successful leadership, guiding Capital through a myriad of market cycles. As Rob steps down from the management committee, we thank him as well, and are pleased he'll remain as a portfolio manager and mentor to our investment professionals. Leadership transitions are important to get right, and our seamless transition positions us well for the future."

About Capital Group

Capital Group, one of the world's largest and most experienced active investment managers, has been singularly focused on delivering superior results for long-term investors using high-conviction portfolios, rigorous research, and individual accountability since 1931.

As of June 30, 2023, Capital Group manages approximately $2.3 trillion in equity and fixed-income assets for millions of individuals and institutional investors around the world. Capital Group manages equity assets through three investment groups. These groups make investment and proxy voting decisions independently. Fixed-income investment professionals provide fixed-income research and investment management across the Capital organization; however, for securities with equity characteristics, they act solely on behalf of one of the three equity investment groups.

For more information, visit capitalgroup.com.

Media Contacts:

Natalie Marin (North America)

+1 213 615 4508

[email protected]

Anisha Patel (Europe)

+44 20 7864 5504

[email protected]

Kaitlyn Yang (Asia and Australia)

+65 6437 0439

[email protected]

Investments are not FDIC-insured, nor are they deposits of or guaranteed by a bank or any other entity, so they may lose value.

All Capital Group trademarks mentioned are owned by The Capital Group Companies, Inc., an affiliated company or fund. All other company and product names mentioned are the property of their respective companies.

This content, developed by Capital Group, home of American Funds, should not be used as a primary basis for investment decisions and is not intended to serve as impartial investment or fiduciary advice.

American Funds Distributors, Inc., member FINRA.

SOURCE Capital Group
This illustrious event was an invitation-only affair, exclusively extended to select clients who have the distinction of owning bottles of the Glen Grant 72 Year Old, providing them with the unique opportunity to taste the whisky without opening their own prized possessions. Recorded as one of the top 5 oldest whiskies globally, these limited edition Glen Grant bottles date back seven decades to a different era of scotch whisky. With an aurora of luxury surrounding every aspect, this whisky is a masterpiece that is one of the most rare and visually striking expressions of all time.

The tasting was led by Siddharth Sawkar, a global whisky expert and one of only nine Masters of Scotch currently recognized by the Council of Whiskey Masters. Under his guidance, attendees embarked on a sensory journey like no other, tasting not just the historic Glen Grant 72 Year Old, but also other exceptional expressions including the Glenfarclas Pagoda Series 62 Year Old Ruby Reserve Gold Edition, Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Old and Benromach 40 Year Old. Each whisky was presented with a depth of knowledge and passion, ensuring a full appreciation of the unique characteristics and provenance of the expressions.

"The whiskies we tasted at the Glen Grant event were absolutely incredible. All four represent important milestones in whisky over the last century and were exceptional in their own right. " said Siddharth Sawkar. "As a whisky enthusiast and professional, I'll remember the evening as one of the greatest lineups I'll ever have the pleasure of presenting or tasting."

Javier Hernandez Balcazar, Peter Facinelli, Luke Rockhold and Devaughn Nixon joined CaskX clients for a once in a lifetime chance to step back in time by tasting single malt scotch whisky that was distilled all the way back in 1948. Each drop of the legendary spirit was meticulously crafted when Harry Truman was president, Bing Crosby topped the music charts, Joe DiMaggio dazzled in the American League with 39 home runs and the first Polaroid camera was sold. Every sip brought with it the memories of all of the milestones, victories and pivotal moments that have created the world we know today. These select individuals had the privilege of tasting one of the most historically significant bottles ever produced.

"It was an honor to present an exclusive tasting event that was set to be an unforgettable night where many had the opportunity to savor not just a remarkable whisky but to experience the past, present, and future of this extraordinary spirit." said CaskX CEO Jeremy Kasler. "Cheers to all those that joined us. We look forward to hosting many more experiences like this in the near future."

In recognition of their participation in the historic event, each attendee was gifted a custom-engraved decanter, a tangible reminder of the exclusivity and prestige of the evening. This bespoke handcrafted keepsake commemorated not just the event, but also their part in tasting such a rare and venerable whisky.

While the premium whisky selection took center stage, attendees were also treated to exceptional cocktails, a feast of fine indulgences and amazing performances. Chaley Rose and Scott Page, the infamous saxophone player from Pink Floyd, entertained guests with outstanding music from across the same eras as the whisky being tasted. Mixologists expertly crafted CaskX Old Fashioneds and CaskX Dirty Sours, using the distinguished Old Glory Tennessee Whiskey. Golden Reserve Caviar hosted an exquisite caviar tasting and a premium charcuterie spread from Marvelous Creations provided the perfect complement to the liquid gold being savored.

The Glen Grant 72 Tasting Event Hosted By CaskX was more than just a tasting; it was a celebration of the finest things in life, a gathering of like-minded connoisseurs and a testament to CaskX's commitment to providing unparalleled experiences and access to the world's most coveted whisky.

Watch Video Introduction to Glen Grant 72 Year Old

Get a behind the scenes look at the historic Gordon & Macphail Glen Grant 72 Year Old single malt scotch whisky as CaskX director of Sales, Ryan Longoria, opens the first bottle that arrived at the CaskX office in Beverly Hills. Visit https://caskx.com/glen-grant-72/ to watch the video introduction now.

About CaskX

CaskX has emerged as the global frontrunner in whiskey investment, pioneering a platform at the intersection of spirits and finance. As the whiskey industry continues its remarkable growth, CaskX has forged a pathway for distilleries to connect with investors in order to secure a consistent flow of capital, ensuring uninterrupted production. Investing in whiskey barrels offers a unique and potentially lucrative opportunity for individual investors by harnessing the aging process, capitalizing on increases in value and rarity of the spirit over time. The team of specialists at CaskX customizes each investor's portfolio to align with their specific financial objectives, positioning investors to protect and grow wealth with a tangible asset that naturally gets better with age. For more information, visit caskx.com

Notes to Editors:

High resolution photos can be downloaded in the CaskX Press Library by visiting https://caskx.com/press/

CaskX Founder Jeremy Kasler is available for interviews. For all press queries, photos or to arrange an interview with Jeremy, please contact Cynthia Pathammavong: [email protected] / +1-310-807-7765

Press Contacts:

CaskX:

Cynthia Pathammavong

[email protected]



SOURCE CaskX

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BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from People's Daily: Parties to the current Palestinian-Israeli conflict should exercise restraint, immediately cease fire, and seek dialogue, said a commentary published by People's Daily on Oct. 26 signed by "Huan Yuping."

This article was published at a time when China is intensifying its diplomatic mediation efforts to promote a ceasefire between the two parties.

In recent days, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has spoken on the phone with foreign ministers of multiple countries, including Palestine and Israel. Zhai Jun, Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East issue, has been to Arab countries for shuttle diplomacy, actively promoting ceasefire and cessation of hostilities.

The article said that military actions should not go beyond self-defense or impose collective punishment on civilians. The parties to the conflict should adhere to international law and international humanitarian law, including ensuring the safety of civilians and detainees, opening humanitarian corridors, and preventing an even worse humanitarian disaster.

"If the current fighting in Gaza is allowed to drag on, the end result will not be a complete military victory for any side, but a wider humanitarian disaster and a more serious crisis. Each party should act responsibly for peace and lives," the article said.

It pointed out that the United Nations, especially the UN Security Council, must shoulder its responsibility, focus on humanitarian concerns, clearly call for practical measures to a ceasefire, an end to violence, protection of civilians, and the formation of a binding international consensus.

The article stressed that the fundamental approach to addressing the Palestinian question is the implementation of the two-state solution. It said major countries, in particular, need to uphold objectivity and fairness, promote a prompt ceasefire and cessation of hostilities, and explicitly call for the implementation of the two-state solution, so as to eliminate the fertile ground for violence and play a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East.
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Signal Theory , a leading marketing, advertising and brand development firm, has been selected as the creative partner to innovate the menu suite for Chili's Grill & Bar, a renowned American casual dining restaurant chain and flagship brand of Brinker International.

"We were impressed by Signal Theory's ability to fuse strategy, world-class design and the human behavior of restaurant goers to help us further distinguish the Chili's brand experience," said Jesse Johnson, VP of Marketing at Chili's. "Their expertise in restaurant merchandising and their love for our brand will help us provide a better experience for our guests."

As an agency grounded in behavioral science, Signal Theory approached every aspect of the RFP assignment with curiosity.

"Who doesn't love Southwest Egg Rolls and a marg?" said John January, co-CEO of Signal Theory. "Chili's is a genuine American original. The more you delve into the brand, the more you discover the joy, comfort and meaning it delivers. We're going to amplify that."

January further explained that diners show up to the table with biases and defaults. Utilizing the understanding of the diner's decision-making process enabled Signal Theory to demonstrate how to create the most authentic Chili's experience.

After a competitive pitch process run by Pile & Company, Signal Theory was chosen for its proven track record in delivering effective branding solutions that resonate with consumers. Signal Theory focused on demonstrating its expertise in menu strategy and choice architecture to differentiate the firm.

Signal Theory will be responsible for redesigning Chili's various menus, including table menus, feature cards, bar menus, multimarket tests and food photography.

About Signal Theory

Signal Theory is a branding and design firm that creates joy, comfort and meaning through human insights for brands in the food value chain and pet sectors. With Midwestern roots, the firm has clients across the globe including SONIC, America's Drive-In; Chili's Grill & Bar; John Deere; BOSE; Certified Angus Beef; Elanco; and International Truck. An Ad Age Agency of the Year, the firm can be found on Facebook , LinkedIn and Instagram .

About Chili's Grill & Bar

Hi, welcome to Chili's! We are a leader in the casual dining industry and the flagship brand of Dallas-based Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE: EAT). We are known for our big mouth burgers, Chicken Crispers, full-on sizzling fajitas and hand-shaken margaritas. We take our food seriously  but not ourselves  because dining out should feel like a celebration even if there is nothing to celebrate. Our passion is making everyone feel special, and every day, our ChiliHeads make it their job to spread #ChilisLove across our more than 1,600 restaurants in 29 countries and two territories. And Chili's cares. We host local Give Back Events to support kids, education and hunger and have raised more than $100 million benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through generous Guest donations. Find more information about us at chilis.com , follow us on Twitter or Instagram , like us on Facebook or join us on TikTok .

SOURCE Signal Theory Inc.
IRVING, Texas, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, CMC (Commercial Metals Company; NYSE: CMC), along with state and local officials and their honored guests, gathered for the dedication of CMC's new micro mill located in Mesa, AZ.

CMC held its official ribbon cutting for the dedication for their new micro mill (Steel Arizona 2) in Mesa, Arizona on October 25. Participating in the ribbon cutting from L to R: Rob McClean, CMC Divisional Vice President West; Gilbert Hutton, CMC Director of Mill Operations West; Dr. Coral Evans, Northern Arizona Director from the office of U.S. Senator Mark Kelly; Allison Grigg, Senior Vice President of Business Development with the Arizona Commerce Authority; John Giles, the Mayor of Mesa; Peter Matt, CMC President and CEO; Carlos Contreras, Cabinet Executive Officer of Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity, and Scott Somers, Mesa Councilmember District 6.

The mill is CMC's third micro mill and will be the first in the world to produce rebar as well as merchant bar quality (MBQ) products through a continuous production process from melting, casting and rolling activities and will be among the most environmentally friendly steelmaking operations in the world. Steel Arizona 2 as the facility has been named, makes CMC a coast-to-coast MBQ manufacturer.

"We are extremely proud to be formally dedicating our newest state-of-the-art steel micro mill in Mesa, Arizona. We look forward to providing both our existing and new customers with sustainably manufactured products combined with CMC's outstanding service." Peter Matt, President and CEO of CMC, said. "A project of this magnitude could not be accomplished without the support of so many, and we thank the entire CMC team as well as all our partners who helped us during the construction and commissioning of the mill. We also thank all the state and local officials who were instrumental in the process."

The new micro mill employs roughly 185 people and will achieve an estimated nominal annual capacity of 500,000 tons, including 150,000 tons of merchant product.

"Today's event is an exciting new chapter for CMC in Arizona," said Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. "CMC's expansion builds on the company's existing presence in Arizona while creating almost two hundred new jobs. We are thankful to CMC for its continued commitment to Arizona and we look forward to supporting CMC's success in Mesa."

About CMC

CMC is an innovative solutions provider helping build a stronger, safer, and more sustainable world. Through an extensive manufacturing network principally located in the United States and Central Europe, we offer products and technologies to meet the critical reinforcement needs of the global construction sector. CMC's solutions support construction across a wide variety of applications, including infrastructure, non-residential, residential, industrial, and energy generation and transmission.

SOURCE CMC
CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The co-packaged optics market is projected to grow from USD 15 million in 2023 to USD 49 million by 2028, registering a CAGR of 26.5% during the forecast period according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets. The market growth is attributed to the Penetration of IoT and connected devices in education and healthcare sectors. Furthermore, rising deployment of 5G network is expected to create lucrative opportunities for the market.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/pdfdownloadNew.asp?id=28874835

Browse in-depth TOC on "Co-Packaged Optics Market"

89  Tables

52  Figures

160  Pages

Co-Packaged Optics Market Report Scope:

Report Coverage Details Market Revenue in 2023 $ 15 million Estimated Value by 2028 $ 49 million Growth Rate Poised to grow at a CAGR of 26.5% Market Size Available for 20192028 Forecast Period 20232028 Forecast Units Value (USD Million/Billion) Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends Segments Covered By Type, Data Rates, Application, Packaging Technology and Region Geographies Covered North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Rest of World Key Market Challenge Increasing fiber counts per switch Key Market Opportunities Rising deployment of 5G network Key Market Drivers Growing investment by tech giants to develop data centers



The CPO type segment is expected to account for the largest share of the co-packaged optics market in 2023.

The CPO segment is a significant market for co-packaged optics. The adoption of CPO is on the rise among various end-users, such as high-performance computing. CPO is an emerging technology that is gaining attention as a potential solution for achieving better performance and power efficiency without the complexities of full onboard integration. As the technology matures, its adoption is expected to increase further in data center and high-performance computing (HPC) markets.

Data center and high-performance computing is expected to account for the largest share of the co-packaged optics market in 2023.

The data center and high-performance computing segment accounted for the largest share of the co-packaged optics market in 2022, and a similar trend is expected to be witnessed during the forecast period. Data centers are experiencing an exponential increase in data traffic due to the rise of cloud computing and several emerging web applications. To manage this network load, large data centers are required, with thousands of servers interconnected with high-bandwidth switches. The rapid growth of data traffic, driven by streaming services, cloud computing, IoT, and 5G, has created a significant demand for higher bandwidth and lower latency in data center and high-performance computing.

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Asia Pacific market is expected to witness the highest CAGR in the co-packaged optics market during the forecast period.

Asia Pacific is projected to record the highest CAGR during the forecast period. One of the key drivers for the Asia Pacific co-packaged optics industry is the increased demand CPO, particularly in China, Japan, and India. With the deployment of 5G networks in the Asia- Pacific countries, high-speed, low-latency communication links are essential. Co-packaged optics can enhance the performance of the backhaul and fronthaul networks supporting 5G. Moreover, the Indian government's growing support for the data center and telecommunication industry is creating new opportunities. For instance, in June 2022, the government of a northern state (Haryana) approved a data center policy aimed at making it an attractive location for constructing these facilities and establishing the state as a global data center hub. Thus, the expanding data center sector presents a promising market opportunity for investors.

Key players

Key players in the co-packaged optics companies include Broadcom (US), Molex (US), Marvell (US), RANOVUS (Canada), Ragile Networks Inc. (US), SENKO (US), Quanta Computer Inc. (Taiwan), Furukawa Electric Co., Ltd. (Japan), among others.

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Browse Adjacent Market: Semiconductor and Electronics Market Research Reports &Consulting

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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.

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SOURCE MarketsandMarkets
Developed With Support From USAA, New CVN Suicide Risk Stratification Training Package for Clinicians Available to the Mental Health Field at No Cost

STAMFORD, Conn., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Cohen Veterans Network (CVN), a not-for-profit philanthropic organization that serves post-9/11 veterans, service members and military families through a nationwide system of mental health clinics, released findings from its study on clinical decision-making in suicide risk assessment. The network simultaneously launched a CVN Suicide Risk Stratification Training Package for Clinicians, available to the field at no cost, to help mental health providers enhance their clinical skills around understanding and managing suicide risk. The implementation of the study and the development of the training package were supported by a grant from USAA.

Researchers reported a number of compelling findings from the study, including that measurement-based care complements clinical judgement in suicide risk assessment and intervention when implemented with fidelity; suicide risk assessment and management are continuous and collaborative; and clinician transparency is a critical element in building therapeutic alliance with active duty and veteran clients.

Suicide prevention is a top priority for CVN considering military and veteran suicides remain at high levels. In 2020, the veteran suicide rate was over 1.5 times the rate of non-veteran US adults, according to data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' 2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.

"We are thrilled to help advance the field by promoting a greater understanding of clinician decision-making in suicide risk assessment," said Cohen Veterans Network Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Tracy Neal-Walden. "Our research highlights the value of utilizing standardized measures and the benefits of a multidisciplinary collaborative care team. By promoting the implementation of these practices in clinical care we have an opportunity to significantly improve client care and safety."

To evaluate the process of suicide risk stratification, CVN researchers developed a series of vignettes, or clinical scenarios, to be utilized by clinicians across CVN's network of 24 clinics in conjunction with validated assessment tools developed by the VA. The vignettes served to illustrate clinician decision-making and accuracy in identifying suicide risk. Researchers then collected and analyzed data from over 50 clinicians through their ratings of the vignettes and participation in structured interviews.

The research team additionally utilized the vignettes to develop new training tools to help clinicians enhance their professional skills related to suicide risk assessment. The CVN Suicide Risk Stratification Training Package for Clinicians, which is available to the field at no cost, includes a report of Lessons Learned, Risk Stratification Training Vignettes and a Training Guide.

"We are proud to support the critical work that Cohen Veterans Network is doing to better understand and prevent veteran suicide," said Justin Schmitt, AVP of Corporate Responsibility at USAA, which also recently founded a veteran suicide prevention coalition called Face the Fight. "This new training package provides a vital tool to help clinicians refine their skills in assessing suicide risk. With this, there is an opportunity to better meet the needs of the veteran community and save lives."

The research project was led by the Cohen Veterans Network Institute for Quality (CVN-IQ). The institute, which launched in 2022, uses research, innovation, and collaboration with other military and veteran service agencies, mental health industry leaders and academic partners to improve treatment outcomes for veterans, service members and their families while enhancing their quality of life.

"We are incredibly pleased to contribute to the limited literature on suicide risk stratification," said CVN-IQ Director Dr. David Linkh. "Through an improved understanding of how clinicians stratify suicide risk, we can inform and enhance clinical assessment and intervention strategies, advancing our efforts to reduce veteran suicide."

CVN provides high-quality, accessible mental health services to post-9/11 veterans, active-duty service members and military family members through its 24 Cohen Clinics across the country. Treatment is available for a wide variety of mental health challenges including depression, anxiety, adjustment issues, anger, PTSD, grief and loss, family issues, transition challenges and relationship problems. CVN has treated over 60,000 clients and provided over 500,000 clinical sessions since its inception in 2016.

ABOUT COHEN VETERANS NETWORK

Cohen Veterans Network (CVN) is a 501(c)(3) national not-for-profit philanthropic organization for post-9/11 veterans, active duty service members and their families. CVN focuses on improving mental health outcomes, operating a network of outpatient mental health clinics in high-need communities, in which trained clinicians deliver holistic evidence-based care to treat mental health conditions. It was established in 2016 by philanthropist Steven A. Cohen with a commitment of $275 million to build the network. Learn more about CVN at cohenveteransnetwork.org.

SOURCE Cohen Veterans Network
ATLANTA, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cousins Properties (NYSE: CUZ) has released its third quarter 2023 results. Please visit the Investor Relations section of Cousins' website at www.cousins.com to access the Earnings Release and Supplemental Information.

Cousins will hold a conference call at 10:00 a.m. (Eastern Time) on Friday, October 27, 2023 to discuss its results. The phone number for the conference call is (877) 247-1056. A replay of the conference call will be available for seven days at (877) 344-7529, passcode 9075029.

A webcast of the conference call can be accessed on Cousins' website through the "Cousins Properties Third Quarter Conference Call" link in the Investor Relations section.

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

Cousins Properties

404-407-1104

[email protected]

SOURCE Cousins Properties
Throughout 2023, the Consulate General of Denmark in New York commemorates the WWII events that saw the flight and rescue of 95% of the Danish Jews, 80 years ago.

NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 1943 flight and rescue of over 7,000 Danish Jews is a unique testament to civic courage, civil society engagement, and humanity. It represents a light in a very dark time: an occasion where many Danes joined forces to help save their Jewish compatriots. It remains an important part of Denmark's national identity and continues to inspire in Denmark and abroad. However, it is also a complex story; not all Danes came to the rescue and around 500 Danish Jews were captured and deported to Theresienstadt.

The events of October 1943 present a unique opportunity to highlight the courage to act, and to reflect on universal ethical questions and dilemmas of responsibility. In the words of Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Lkke Rasmussen, these "events are as relevant today as ever, reminding us of the ordinary Danes who stood up for and had the courage to help their fellow citizens in times of dire need."

There is still much to learn, and it is especially important to share the story with younger generations in engaging ways. Denmark and the Consulate General of Denmark in New York are involved in a series of cultural and educational initiatives to commemorate the October escape.

New exhibition in New York explores the meaning of courage

15 October, the Museum of Jewish Heritage  A Living Memorial to the Holocaust opened a new, groundbreaking exhibition entitled Courage to Act: Rescue in Denmark. This exhibition brings to life important stories from the events in October 1943, but it also creates a new, interactive platform for talking about these stories with children down to 9 years. Through archival materials, photographs, recordings, testimonials, and other artifacts, it raises the question to the exhibition guests: Do you have the courage to act?

Featuring prominently in the exhibition is the story of the Gerda III, one of the small fishing vessels used to transport the Danish Jews to Sweden. This boat alone saved an estimated 300 Jewish lives. The captain, twenty-two-year-old Henny Sinding Sund, will be among the exhibition narrators. The Gerda III was donated to the museum by the Danish Parliament in 1989 and is currently docked at The Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut.

Alongside the exhibition, the museum curates a program of events, virtual and in-person, highlighting unique people and perspectives. Stay updated on the activity schedule here.

'Voices in the Void' brings flight story to life

The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken an active role in communicating the October 1943 event to children and young people in partnership with Humanity in Action, Ghetto Fighters' House, the Danish Jewish Museum, and the Danish Ministry for Culture.

A product of that collaboration, Voices in the Void is a newly launched animated movie and educational workshop based on the testimonials from the late Bent Melchior, Chief Rabbi of Denmark, about his and his family's nighttime flight to Sweden. The movie and supporting materials are available in four languages free of charge for middle and high schools everywhere  it is also available for free in the Bloomberg Connects app.

The official commemoration in Denmark

On October 8, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Her Majesty the Queen Margrethe II of Denmark attended a special commemorative performance at the Royal Theater in Copenhagen.

This was followed by the international conference A Light in the Darkness: Lessons from Denmark during the Holocaust, arranged by the Danish Institute for International Studies and the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It took place 9-10 October in the small fishing town and port of Gilleleje which was central to the escape.

The conference examined the best ways to learn from past events  good and bad  and how we can share lessons from the Holocaust with the younger generations. It also touched on the current events in the Middle East, and the continuous importance of compassion, respect for human lives, and the protection of civilians. Among the participants were the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance and other international delegations. Together, they underscored the continuing importance of compassion, respect for human lives, and the protection of civilians.

The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Danish Jewish Museum will publish a brief research-based, conference-related publication on the October 1943 escape.

About the Consulate General of Denmark in New York

The Consulate General of Denmark in New York is Denmark's official representation in New York and across the East Coast. We provide advisory services and assistance in such areas as consular, commercial, investment, cultural, and press related matters.

For additional info, please contact:

Katinka Friis, Strategic Communications Officer

[email protected], +1 (347) 203-1739

SOURCE Consulate General of Denmark in New York
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DG will host THE NEW CONTEXT CONFERENCE San Francisco 2023 Fall (NCC San Francisco 2023 Fall), a conference to discuss "new context" for a digital society, in San Francisco on November 17, 2023.

This conference is designed for those interested in exploring cutting-edge Internet technologies and the businesses that emerge around them. To prepare a value-based society globally, it focuses on "new contexts" that contribute to the development of society and is intended to deepen understanding through discussions between experts and participants. This will be the twenty-sixth conference since the first one was held in 2005.

The theme of NCC San Francisco 2023 Fall will be "Building Useful and Trustworthy AI" and hosted by Kaoru Hayashi and Joichi Ito, the co-founders of DG, who have been at the forefront of the Internet since its initial stage at "Digital Garage @ 717 Market Street*1" in San Francisco.

In the 70 years since the concept of "AI (Artificial Intelligence)" was born in the 1950s, AI has developed and been implemented into society in various ways. With recent technological innovations, a new era is emerging with AI. With deep learning gaining attention since the 2010s and the release of Chat GPT-3.5 in 2022, large language models (LLM) are drawing attention, and various industries are looking for ways to utilize AI. Just as the birth of the Internet changed the structure of many businesses, the social implementation of AI can potentially change business structures and people's lives.

Generative AI tools with new technologies have been developed in various industries and are now available to many people and companies. On the other hand, the issues regarding the social implementation of AI, such as rights issues of training data, bias, copyrights of generative products, and hallucination*2, have become evident. Several issues require urgent action, including security issues and legislation associated with using AI. In this conference, we will discuss with experts how trustworthy AI should be implemented in society, considering the latest AI application cases, from the viewpoints of AI regulations and technologies to be combined with AI that takes approaches other than LLM.

Speakers:

Vikash Mansinghka (Principal Research Scientist, Dept. of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, MIT)

Merve Hickok (President and Research Director, Center for AI and Digital Policy)

Rei Inamoto (Founding Partner, I&CO)

Karthik Dinakar (Assistant Professor, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital)

Ray HatoyamaCEO, Hatoyama Studio

Lisa KatayamaPrincipal, SYPartners

Daniel Riedel (Executive Director, GenLab)

*1: DG717 is an incubation center established by DG in 2013 on Market Street in San Francisco for the purpose of supporting startups. (https://dg717.com/) *2: Information generated by AI that is not true.

Event outline

Date and time: November 17 (Friday), 2023, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (PST)

Venue: Digital Garage @ 717 Market Street (717 Market Street, San Francisco, USA)

Organizer: Digital Garage, Inc., DG717

Partners: Kakaku.com, Inc., DG Lab, GenLab, Open Network Lab, BI.Garage, Inc., Digital Architecture Lab, Crypto Garage, Inc.

Participation: $25 (pre-registration required)

Please register on Eventbrite (https://ncc2023sffall.eventbrite.com)

Official website: https://ncc.garage.co.jp/2023fall/

Host:

Kaoru Hayashi (DG Representative Director, President Executive Officer and Group CEO / Kakaku.com, Inc. Executive Chairman)

Joichi Ito (DG Board member, and Senior Managing Executive Officer and Chief Architect)

*The information of speakers and programs will be updated on the official website as needed.

*This information is current as of the date of the announcement. Program contents and speaker information are subject to change. Please be forewarned.

Contact:

Email: [email protected].jp

SOURCE Digital Garage, Inc.
Updates full-year guidance

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- - Encompass Health Corporation (NYSE: EHC), the largest owner and operator of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals in the United States, today reported its results of operations for the third quarter ended September 30, 2023.

Summary results











Growth

Q3 2023

Q3 2022

Dollars

Percent

(In Millions, Except Per Share Data) Net operating revenue $ 1,206.9

$ 1,089.5

$ 117.4

10.8 % Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health per diluted share 0.85

0.63

0.22

34.9 % Adjusted earnings per share 0.86

0.67

0.19

28.4 % Cash flows provided by operating activities 215.2

70.1

145.1

207.0 % Adjusted EBITDA 237.5

195.3

42.2

21.6 % Adjusted free cash flow 149.3

26.6

122.7

461.3 %















(Actual Amounts)









Discharges 57,665

53,743





7.3 % Same-store discharge growth











4.3 % Net patient revenue per discharge $ 20,472

$ 19,809





3.3 %

See attached supplemental information for calculations of non-GAAP measures and reconciliations to their most comparable GAAP measure.

"We are very pleased with our third quarter performance," said President and Chief Executive Officer of Encompass Health Mark Tarr. "Revenue growth of 10.8% driven primarily by strong discharge growth combined with year-over-year improvement in labor costs resulting in Adjusted EBITDA growth of 21.6%. Our value proposition and operating strategy continue to be validated and we remain highly optimistic about the long-term prospects of our business. We are updating our 2023 guidance to reflect our third quarter results and expectations for the balance of the year."

Revenue growth of 10.8% resulted primarily from discharge growth of 7.3%, including same-store growth of 4.3%. Net revenue per discharge grew 3.3%.

Cash flows provided by operating activities increased 207.0% over the prior year to $215.2 million , due to lower working capital and an increase in net income.

, due to lower working capital and an increase in net income. The 21.6% increase in Adjusted EBITDA primarily resulted from increased revenue and a decrease in contract labor expense and sign-on and shift bonuses.

2023 Guidance

The Company updated its full-year guidance as follows:



Full-Year 2023 Guidance

Previous Guidance

Updated Guidance

(In Millions, Except Per Share Data) Net operating revenue $4,750 to $4,810

$4,770 to $4,800 Adjusted EBITDA $920 to $950

$940 to $955 Adjusted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health $3.31 to $3.53

$3.41 to $3.52

For considerations regarding the Company's 2023 guidance, see the supplemental information posted on the Company's website at http://investor.encompasshealth.com. See also the "Other information" section below for an explanation of why the Company does not provide guidance for comparable GAAP measures for Adjusted EBITDA and adjusted earnings per share.

Earnings conference call and webcast

The Company will host an investor conference call at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time on Friday, October 27, 2023, to discuss its results for the third quarter of 2023. For reference during the call, the Company will post certain supplemental information at http://investor.encompasshealth.com.

The conference call may be accessed by dialing 800 267-6316 and giving the conference ID EHCQ323. International callers should dial 203 518-9765 and give the same conference ID. Please call approximately ten minutes before the start of the call to ensure you are connected. The conference call will also be webcast live and will be available for on-line replay at http://investor.encompasshealth.com by clicking on an available link.

About Encompass Health

Encompass Health (NYSE: EHC) is the largest owner and operator of rehabilitation hospitals in the United States. With a national footprint that includes 159 hospitals in 37 states and Puerto Rico, the Company provides high-quality, compassionate rehabilitative care for patients recovering from a major injury or illness, using advanced technology and innovative treatments to maximize recovery. Encompass Health is ranked as one of Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies and Modern Healthcare's Best Places to Work in Healthcare. For more information, visit encompasshealth.com, or follow us on our newsroom, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Other information

The information in this press release is summarized and should be read in conjunction with the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2023 (the "September 2023 Form 10-Q"), when filed, as well as the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 26, 2023 (the "Q3 Earnings Form 8-K"), to which this press release is attached as Exhibit 99.1. In addition, the Company will post supplemental information today on its website at http://investor.encompasshealth.com for reference during its October 27, 2023, earnings call.

The financial data contained in the press release and supplemental information include non-GAAP financial measures, including the Company's adjusted earnings per share, leverage ratio, Adjusted EBITDA, and adjusted free cash flow. Reconciliations to their most comparable GAAP measure, except with regard to non-GAAP guidance, are included below or in the Q3 Earnings Form 8-K. Readers are encouraged to review the "Note Regarding Presentation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures" included in the Q3 Earnings Form 8-K which provides further explanation and disclosure regarding the Company's use of these non-GAAP financial measures.

Excluding net operating revenues, the Company does not provide guidance on a GAAP basis because it is unable to predict, with reasonable certainty, the future impact of items that are deemed to be outside the control of the Company or otherwise not indicative of its ongoing operating performance. Such items include government, class action, and related settlements; professional feesaccounting, tax, and legal; mark-to-market adjustments for stock appreciation rights; gains or losses related to hedging instruments; loss on early extinguishment of debt; adjustments to its income tax provision (such as valuation allowance adjustments and settlements of income tax claims); items related to corporate and facility restructurings; and certain other items the Company believes to be not indicative of its ongoing operations. These items cannot be reasonably predicted and will depend on several factors, including industry and market conditions, and could be material to the Company's results computed in accordance with GAAP.

However, the following reasonably estimable GAAP measures for 2023 would be included in a reconciliation for Adjusted EBITDA if the other reconciling GAAP measures could be reasonably predicted:

Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees - approximately $145 million

Amortization of debt-related items - approximately $10 million

The Q3 Earnings Form 8-K and, when filed, the September 2023 Form 10-Q can be found on the Company's website at http://investor.encompasshealth.com and the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)



Three Months Ended

September 30,

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(In Millions, Except Per Share Data) Net operating revenues $ 1,206.9

$ 1,089.5

$ 3,554.4

$ 3,211.3 Operating expenses:













Salaries and benefits 658.6

605.6

1,923.8

1,778.9 Other operating expenses 183.7

172.0

534.3

500.3 Occupancy costs 14.2

12.4

42.3

41.6 Supplies 53.9

51.1

159.7

148.2 General and administrative expenses 49.8

37.9

148.6

111.5 Depreciation and amortization 67.3

62.1

203.8

180.3 Total operating expenses 1,027.5

941.1

3,012.5

2,760.8 Loss on early extinguishment of debt 





1.4 Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees 35.9

38.2

108.6

138.2 Other (income) expense (0.5)

3.6

(6.8)

13.6 Equity in net income of nonconsolidated affiliates (1.0)

(0.7)

(2.3)

(2.6) Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 145.0

107.3

442.4

299.9 Provision for income tax expense 30.3

21.8

95.0

68.2 Income from continuing operations 114.7

85.5

347.4

231.7 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax (1.3)

(18.5)

(3.5)

16.7 Net and comprehensive income 113.4

67.0

343.9

248.4 Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests included in continuing operations (28.1)

(21.6)

(79.5)

(65.5) Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests included in discontinued operations 





(1.3) Less: Net and comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests (28.1)

(21.6)

(79.5)

(66.8) Net and comprehensive income attributable to Encompass Health $ 85.3

$ 45.4

$ 264.4

$ 181.6















Weighted average common shares outstanding:













Basic 99.5

99.2

99.5

99.2 Diluted 101.4

100.5

101.1

100.3 Earnings per common share:













Basic earnings per share attributable to Encompass Health common shareholders:













Continuing operations $ 0.86

$ 0.64

$ 2.68

$ 1.67 Discontinued operations (0.01)

(0.19)

(0.04)

0.15 Net income $ 0.85

$ 0.45

$ 2.64

$ 1.82 Diluted earnings per share attributable to Encompass Health common shareholders:













Continuing operations $ 0.85

$ 0.63

$ 2.65

$ 1.66 Discontinued operations (0.01)

(0.18)

(0.03)

0.15 Net income $ 0.84

$ 0.45

$ 2.62

$ 1.81















Amounts attributable to Encompass Health common shareholders:













Income from continuing operations $ 86.6

$ 63.9

$ 267.9

$ 166.2 (Loss) income from discontinued operations, net of tax (1.3)

(18.5)

(3.5)

15.4 Net income attributable to Encompass Health $ 85.3

$ 45.4

$ 264.4

$ 181.6

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)



September 30,

2023

December 31,

2022

(In Millions) Assets





Current assets:





Cash and cash equivalents $ 99.7

$ 21.8 Restricted cash 41.5

31.6 Accounts receivable 535.9

536.8 Other current assets 136.6

127.0 Total current assets 813.7

717.2 Property and equipment, net 3,186.3

2,939.2 Operating lease right-of-use assets 196.8

212.5 Goodwill 1,281.3

1,263.2 Intangible assets, net 276.4

282.3 Other long-term assets 209.8

222.1 Total assets $ 5,964.3

$ 5,636.5 Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity





Current liabilities:





Current portion of long-term debt $ 23.9

$ 25.2 Current operating lease liabilities 24.9

25.6 Accounts payable 165.4

132.9 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 425.0

392.2 Total current liabilities 639.2

575.9 Long-term debt, net of current portion 2,692.7

2,741.8 Long-term operating lease liabilities 183.9

199.7 Deferred income tax liabilities 80.4

83.0 Other long-term liabilities 178.9

174.2

3,775.1

3,774.6 Commitments and contingencies





Redeemable noncontrolling interests 41.5

35.6 Shareholders' equity:





Encompass Health shareholders' equity 1,560.4

1,310.3 Noncontrolling interests 587.3

516.0 Total shareholders' equity 2,147.7

1,826.3 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 5,964.3

$ 5,636.5

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

(In Millions) Cash flows from operating activities:





Net income $ 343.9

$ 248.4 Loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of tax 3.5

(16.7) Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities





Depreciation and amortization 203.8

180.3 Loss on early extinguishment of debt 

1.4 Equity in net income of nonconsolidated affiliates (2.3)

(2.6) Distributions from nonconsolidated affiliates 0.6

3.7 Stock-based compensation 37.2

21.1 Deferred tax benefit (2.9)

(7.7) Realized loss on sale of investments 0.9

16.5 Other, net 10.8

9.7 Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions





Accounts receivable 20.7

22.4 Other assets (4.1)

5.0 Accounts payable (0.2)

(0.3) Accrued payroll 24.1

(9.3) Accrued interest payable (19.1)

(20.7) Other liabilities 37.5

26.4 Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities of discontinued operations (4.6)

56.0 Total adjustments 302.4

301.9 Net cash provided by operating activities 649.8

533.6 Cash flows from investing activities:





Purchases of property and equipment (360.5)

(374.9) Purchase of restricted investments (21.1)

(25.1) Other, net (13.1)

(17.0) Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations 

(3.6) Net cash used in investing activities (394.7)

(420.6)









Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued) (Unaudited)



Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

(In Millions) Cash flows from financing activities:





Principal borrowings on notes 20.0

 Principal payments on debt, including pre-payments (6.3)

(345.3) Borrowings on revolving credit facility 60.0

180.0 Payments on revolving credit facility (115.0)

(340.0) Principal payments under finance lease obligations (35.9)

(14.3) Debt amendment costs (0.1)

(21.6) Taxes paid on behalf of employees for shares withheld (8.1)

(7.2) Contributions from noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates 54.7

55.1 Dividends paid on common stock (45.5)

(84.1) Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates (91.9)

(68.2) Other, net 0.8

0.3 Net cash provided by financing activities of discontinued operations 

516.1 Net cash used in financing activities (167.3)

(129.2) Increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash 87.8

(16.2) Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period 53.4

120.3 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 141.2

$ 104.1







Reconciliation of Cash, Cash Equivalents, and Restricted Cash





Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period $ 21.8

$ 49.4 Restricted cash at beginning of period 31.6

62.5 Restricted cash included in other long-term assets at beginning of period 

0.4 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash in discontinued operations at beginning of period 

8.0 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period $ 53.4

$ 120.3







Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 99.7

$ 59.8 Restricted cash at end of period 41.5

44.3 Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period $ 141.2

$ 104.1

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Earnings Per Share



Three Months Ended

September 30,

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(In Millions, Except Per Share Data) Adjusted EBITDA $ 237.5

$ 195.3

$ 716.1

$ 586.6 Depreciation and amortization (67.3)

(62.1)

(203.8)

(180.3) Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees (35.9)

(38.2)

(108.6)

(138.2) Stock-based compensation (13.7)

(7.3)

(37.2)

(21.1) (Loss) gain on disposal or impairment of assets (2.2)

1.1

(3.7)

(2.4)

118.4

88.8

362.8

244.6 Items not indicative of ongoing operating performance:













Loss on early extinguishment of debt 





(1.4) State regulatory change impact on noncontrolling interests 



2.2

 Change in fair market value of equity securities (1.5)

(3.1)

(2.1)

(8.8) Pre-tax income 116.9

85.7

362.9

234.4 Income tax expense (30.3)

(21.8)

(95.0)

(68.2) Income from continuing operations (1) $ 86.6

$ 63.9

$ 267.9

$ 166.2















Basic shares 99.5

99.2

99.5

99.2 Diluted shares 101.4

100.5

101.1

100.3















Basic earnings per share (1) $ 0.86

$ 0.64

$ 2.68

$ 1.67 Diluted earnings per share (1) $ 0.85

$ 0.63

$ 2.65

$ 1.66





(1) Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Adjusted Earnings Per Share



Q3

9 Months

2023

2022

2023

2022















Earnings per share, as reported $ 0.85

$ 0.63

$ 2.65

$ 1.66 Adjustments, net of tax:













Bondholder consent fees associated with Enhabit distribution 





0.15 Income tax adjustments 

0.01



0.08 State regulatory change impact 



0.03

 Loss on early extinguishment of debt 





0.01 Change in fair market value of equity securities 0.01

0.02

0.02

0.06 Adjusted earnings per share* $ 0.86

$ 0.67

$ 2.69

$ 1.97



* Adjusted EPS may not sum due to rounding.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Adjusted EBITDA



Three Months Ended

September 30,

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(In Millions) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 215.2

$ 70.1

$ 649.8

$ 533.6 Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees 35.9

38.2

108.6

138.2 Loss on sale of investments, excluding impairments (2.7)

(4.6)

(0.9)

(16.5) Equity in net income of nonconsolidated affiliates 1.0

0.7

2.3

2.6 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in continuing operations (28.1)

(21.6)

(79.5)

(65.5) Amortization of debt-related items (2.4)

(2.6)

(7.1)

(7.4) Distributions from nonconsolidated affiliates (0.4)

(0.8)

(0.6)

(3.7) Current portion of income tax expense 33.5

23.0

97.9

75.9 Change in assets and liabilities (17.5)

69.9

(58.9)

(23.5) Cash used in (provided by) operating activities of discontinued operations 1.7

19.9

4.6

(56.0) State regulatory change impact on noncontrolling interests 



(2.2)

 Change in fair market value of equity securities 1.5

3.1

2.1

8.8 Other (0.2)





0.1 Adjusted EBITDA $ 237.5

$ 195.3

$ 716.1

$ 586.6

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Encompass Health per Diluted Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share



For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2023





Adjustments





As

Reported

Income Tax

Adjustments

Change in Fair

Market Value

of Equity

Securities

As

Adjusted

(In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts) Adjusted EBITDA* $ 237.5

$ 

$ 

$ 237.5 Depreciation and amortization (67.3)





(67.3) Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees (35.9)





(35.9) Stock-based compensation (13.7)





(13.7) Loss on disposal or impairment of assets (2.2)





(2.2) Change in fair market value of equity securities (1.5)



1.5

 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 116.9



1.5

118.4 Provision for income tax expense (30.3)

(0.5)

(0.3)

(31.1) Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health $ 86.6

$ (0.5)

$ 1.2

$ 87.3 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations** $ 0.85

$ 

$ 0.01

$ 0.86 Diluted shares used in calculation 101.4















* See reconciliation of net income to Adjusted EBITDA ** Adjusted EPS may not sum across due to rounding.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Encompass Health per Diluted Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share



For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2022





Adjustments





As

Reported

Income Tax

Adjustments

Change in Fair

Market Value of

Equity Securities

As

Adjusted

(In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts) Adjusted EBITDA* $ 195.3

$ 

$ 

$ 195.3 Depreciation and amortization (62.1)





(62.1) Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees (38.2)





(38.2) Stock-based compensation (7.3)





(7.3) Gain on disposal or impairment of assets 1.1





1.1 Change in fair market value of equity securities (3.1)



3.1

 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 85.7



3.1

88.8 Provision for income tax expense (21.8)

1.3

(0.8)

(21.3) Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health $ 63.9

$ 1.3

$ 2.3

$ 67.5 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations** $ 0.63

$ 0.01

$ 0.02

$ 0.67 Diluted shares used in calculation 100.5















* See reconciliation of net income to Adjusted EBITDA ** Adjusted EPS may not sum across due to rounding.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Encompass Health per Diluted Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share



For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023





Adjustments





As

Reported

State

Regulatory

Change

Impact

Income Tax

Adjustments

Change in Fair

Market Value of

Equity Securities

As

Adjusted

(In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts) Adjusted EBITDA* $ 716.1

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 716.1 Depreciation and amortization (203.8)

6.1





(197.7) Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees (108.6)







(108.6) Stock-based compensation (37.2)







(37.2) Loss on disposal or impairment of assets (3.7)







(3.7) State regulatory change impact on noncontrolling interests 2.2

(2.2)





 Change in fair market value of equity securities (2.1)





2.1

 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 362.9

3.9



2.1

368.9 Provision for income tax expense (95.0)

(1.0)

(0.1)

(0.5)

(96.6) Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health $ 267.9

$ 2.9

$ (0.1)

$ 1.6

$ 272.3 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations** $ 2.65

$ 0.03

$ 

$ 0.02

$ 2.69 Diluted shares used in calculation 101.1



















* See reconciliation of net income to Adjusted EBITDA ** Adjusted EPS may not sum across due to rounding.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Income from Continuing Operations Attributable to Encompass Health per Diluted Share to Adjusted Earnings Per Share



For the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2022





Adjustments





As

Reported

Loss on

Early

Exting. of

Debt

Income Tax

Adjustments

Bondholder

Consent Fees

Associated

with Enhabit

Distribution

Change in

Fair Market

Value of

Equity

Securities

As

Adjusted

(In Millions, Except Per Share Amounts) Adjusted EBITDA* $ 586.6

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 586.6 Depreciation and amortization (180.3)









(180.3) Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees (138.2)





20.5



(117.7) Stock-based compensation (21.1)









(21.1) Loss on disposal or impairment of assets (2.4)









(2.4) Loss on early extinguishment of debt (1.4)

1.4







 Change in fair market value of equity securities (8.8)







8.8

 Income from continuing operations before income tax expense 234.4

1.4



20.5

8.8

265.1 Provision for income tax expense (68.2)

(0.4)

8.5

(5.3)

(2.3)

(67.7) Income from continuing operations attributable to Encompass Health $ 166.2

$ 1.0

$ 8.5

$ 15.2

$ 6.5

$ 197.4 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations** $ 1.66

$ 0.01

$ 0.08

$ 0.15

$ 0.06

$ 1.97 Diluted shares used in calculation 100.3























* See reconciliation of net income to Adjusted EBITDA ** Adjusted EPS may not sum across due to rounding.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Net Income to Adjusted EBITDA



Three Months Ended

September 30,

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(In Millions) Net income $ 113.4

$ 67.0

$ 343.9

$ 248.4 Loss (income) from discontinued operations, net of tax, attributable to Encompass Health 1.3

18.5

3.5

(16.7) Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests included in continuing operations (28.1)

(21.6)

(79.5)

(65.5) Provision for income tax expense 30.3

21.8

95.0

68.2 Interest expense and amortization of debt discounts and fees 35.9

38.2

108.6

138.2 Depreciation and amortization 67.3

62.1

203.8

180.3 Loss on early extinguishment of debt 





1.4 Loss (gain) on disposal or impairment of assets 2.2

(1.1)

3.7

2.4 Stock-based compensation 13.7

7.3

37.2

21.1 State regulatory change impact on noncontrolling interests 



(2.2)

 Change in fair market value of equity securities 1.5

3.1

2.1

8.8 Adjusted EBITDA $ 237.5

$ 195.3

$ 716.1

$ 586.6

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries Supplemental Information Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Adjusted Free Cash Flow



Three Months Ended

September 30,

Nine Months Ended

September 30,

2023

2022

2023

2022

(In Millions) Net cash provided by operating activities $ 215.2

$ 70.1

$ 649.8

$ 533.6 Impact of discontinued operations 1.7

19.9

4.6

(56.0) Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations 216.9

90.0

654.4

477.6 Capital expenditures for maintenance (35.3)

(56.2)

(129.8)

(127.6) Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates (32.5)

(22.3)

(91.9)

(68.2) Items not indicative of ongoing operating performance:













Transaction costs and related liabilities 0.2

15.1

(0.5)

12.3 Adjusted free cash flow $ 149.3

$ 26.6

$ 432.2

$ 294.1

For the three months ended September 30, 2023, net cash used in investing activities was $162.2 million and resulted primarily from capital expenditures. Net cash used in financing activities during the three months ended September 30, 2023, was $65.8 million and resulted primarily from net debt payments, distributions paid to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates, and cash dividends paid on common stock partially offset by contributions from noncontrolling interest of consolidated affiliates.

For the three months ended September 30, 2022, net cash used in investing activities was $174.3 million and primarily resulted from capital expenditures and purchase of restricted investments. Net cash provided by financing activities during the three months ended September 30, 2022, was $49.0 million and primarily resulted from net debt borrowings and contributions from consolidated affiliates partially offset by cash dividends paid on common stock and distributions to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, net cash used in investing activities was $394.7 million and primarily resulted from capital expenditures. Net cash used in financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, was $167.3 million and primarily resulted from net debt payments, distributions paid to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates, and cash dividends paid on common stock partially offset by contributions from noncontrolling interest of consolidated affiliates.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2022, net cash used in investing activities was $420.6 million and primarily resulted from capital expenditures and purchase of restricted investments. Net cash used in financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2022, was $129.2 million and primarily resulted from net debt payments, cash dividends paid on common stock and distributions to noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates partially offset by net cash provided by financing activities of discontinued operations and contributions from noncontrolling interests of consolidated affiliates.

Encompass Health Corporation and Subsidiaries

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release and the supplemental information which are not historical facts, such as those relating to the business model, strategy, outlook and guidance, dividend strategies, effective income tax rates, labor cost trends, legislative and regulatory developments or their impacts, financial guidance, ability to return value to shareholders, projected capital expenditures, acquisition opportunities, development projects, other balance sheet and cash flow plans, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In addition, Encompass Health, through its senior management, may from time to time make forward-looking public statements concerning the matters described herein. All such estimates, projections, and forward-looking information speak only as of the date hereof, and Encompass Health undertakes no duty to publicly update or revise such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily estimates based upon current information and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors. While it is impossible to identify all such factors, factors which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those estimated by Encompass Health include, but are not limited to, an infectious disease outbreak, including the speed, depth, geographic reach and duration of its spread, which could decrease our patient volumes and revenues and lead to staffing and supply shortages and associated cost increases; Encompass Health's infectious disease prevention and control efforts; the demand for Encompass Health's services, including based on any downturns in the economy, consumer confidence, or the capital markets; the price of Encompass Health's common stock as it affects Encompass Health's willingness and ability to repurchase shares and the financial and accounting effects of any repurchases; any adverse outcome of various lawsuits, claims, and legal or regulatory proceedings involving Encompass Health, including any matters related to yet undiscovered issues, if any, in acquired operations; Encompass Health's ability to attract and retain key management personnel; any adverse effects on Encompass Health's stock price resulting from the integration of acquired operations; potential disruptions, breaches, or other incidents affecting the proper operation, availability, or security of Encompass Health's or its vendors' or partners' information systems, including unauthorized access to or theft of patient, business associate, or other sensitive information or inability to provide patient care because of system unavailability as well as unforeseen issues, if any, related to integration of acquired systems; the ability to successfully integrate acquired operations, including realization of anticipated tax benefits, revenues, and cost savings, minimizing the negative impact on margins arising from the changes in staffing and other operating practices, and avoidance of unforeseen exposure to liabilities; Encompass Health's ability to successfully complete and integrate de novo developments, acquisitions, investments, and joint ventures consistent with its growth strategy; Encompass Health's ability to realize construction cost savings from prefabrication of hospitals; increases in Medicare audit activity, including increased use of sampling and extrapolation, resulting in additional unpaid reimbursement claims and an increase in the backlog of appealed claims denials; changes, delays in (including in connection with resolution of Medicare payment reviews or appeals), or suspension of reimbursement for Encompass Health's services by governmental or private payors; changes in the regulation of the healthcare industry at either or both of the federal and state levels, including as part of national healthcare reform and deficit reduction and Encompass Health's ability to adapt operations to those changes, including in connection with the CMS inpatient rehabilitation review choice demonstration project; competitive pressures in the healthcare industry and Encompass Health's response thereto; Encompass Health's ability to obtain and retain favorable arrangements with third-party payors; Encompass Health's ability to control costs, particularly labor and employee benefit costs, including group medical expenses; adverse effects resulting from coverage determinations made by Medicare Administrative Contractors regarding its Medicare reimbursement claims and lengthening delays in Encompass Health's ability to recover improperly denied claims through the administrative appeals process on a timely basis; Encompass Health's ability to adapt to changes in the healthcare delivery system, including value-based purchasing and involvement in coordinated care initiatives or programs that may arise with its referral sources; Encompass Health's ability to attract and retain nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals in a highly competitive environment with often severe staffing shortages, which may be worsened by infectious disease outbreaks, and the impact on Encompass Health's labor expenses from potential union activity, staffing shortages, and competitive compensation practices; general conditions in the economy and capital markets, including any instability or uncertainty related to armed conflict or an act of terrorism, governmental impasse over approval of the United States federal budget, an increase in the debt ceiling, or an international sovereign debt crisis; the increase in the cost of, or the decrease in the availability of, necessary supplies, such as personal protective equipment; the increase in the costs of defending and insuring against alleged professional liability claims, and Encompass Health's ability to predict the estimated costs related to such claims; and other factors which may be identified from time to time in Encompass Health's SEC filings and other public announcements, including Encompass Health's Form 10K for the year ended December 31, 2022 and Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023, and September 30, 2023, when filed.

Media Contact

Danielle Hall, 205-970-5912

[email protected]

Investor Relations Contact

Mark Miller, 205-970-5860

[email protected]

SOURCE Encompass Health Corp.
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ervin Cohen & Jessup LLP announced today that its Partner Kelly Scott has been recognized by Los Angeles Business Journal as a "Leader of Influence: Labor & Employment Attorneys." The Los Angeles Business Journal recognizes the professional achievements of community business leaders of influence by highlighting their milestones and notable contributions to the Los Angeles business community.

"When it comes to the intricacies of employment, a whole additional set of skills is required. The leading employment attorneys and experts in the region have their finger on the ever-changing pulse of labor legislation, the new rules of hiring and firing, and the various trends that they have been tirelessly monitoring and managing for their clients," states the publisher.

Co-Managing Partner Barry MacNaughton adds, "We applaud Kelly for his dedication, expertise, and passion for the law. His inclusion in this guide is a testament to his commitment to clients and the greater business community."

Kelly Scott is a Partner and chair of the firm's Employment Law Department. His areas of practice include representation of employers in all types of employment matters, including class actions, wrongful termination, employment discrimination and harassment, retaliation, wage and hour claims, and various administrative actions. He also provides employers with advice and training for compliance with state, federal and local employment laws.

Scott is an experienced investigator in various types of employment law related complaints and problems, including, but not limited to, discrimination, harassment, retaliation, workplace violence, wage and hour issues, overtime exemptions, employee theft and various allegations of employee misconduct. He is well-versed in pre-employment investigations and background checks, and is frequently active in the interviewing and review process for hiring, terminating and improving the performance of employees.

Ervin Cohen & Jessup LLP is a full-service firm that provides a broad range of business-related legal services including corporate law; litigation; intellectual property & technology law; real estate transactions and finance; construction & environmental law; tax planning and controversies; employment law; health care law; bankruptcy, receivership and reorganization; and estate planning. For more information, visit http://www.ecjlaw.com/

SOURCE Ervin Cohen & Jessup LLP
The global esoteric testing market is driven by factors such as an increase in geriatric population, surge in prevalence of infectious diseases, and rise in demand of real time polymerase chain reaction testing.

PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Esoteric Testing Market, By Type (Infectious Disease Testing, Oncology Testing, Endocrinology Testing, Genetic Testing, Toxicology Testing, Immunology Testing, Neurology Testing, and Other Testing), By Technology (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, Chemiluminescence Immunoassay, Mass-Spectrometry, Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction, DNA Sequencing, Flow Cytometry, and Other Technologies) and By End User (Hospital-Based Laboratories And Independent and Reference Laboratories): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022-2032." According to the report, the esoteric testing industry was estimated at $24.2 billion in 2022, and is anticipated to reach $68.5 billion by 2032, registering a CAGR of 11.0% from 2023 to 2032.

Request Sample of the Report on Esoteric Testing Market Forecast 2032- https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/12387

Esoteric tests refer to specialized laboratory procedures that are not commonly available in typical clinical labs. These tests are conducted in specialized labs due to their complexity, their relevance to rare disorders, or the need for specialized expertise to interpret the results. Esoteric diagnostics encompass advanced biomarker assays, specific tests for uncommon infections, and genetic tests for rare conditions. Unlike routine blood or urine tests, esoteric diagnostics are often outsourced to reference labs equipped with the necessary tools and expertise. While there may be less demand for these tests, they can be invaluable in specific clinical settings or for research purposes. Esoteric testing makes use of advanced technologies like next-generation sequencing, real-time polymerase chain reaction, and others.

Prime determinants of growth

Increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases such as hypertension, cancer, diabetes, and chronic infectious diseases and surge in awareness about early disease diagnosis drive the growth of the esoteric testing market. However, high cost of esoteric testing instruments and shortage of skilled laboratory technicians are hampering the esoteric testing market growth. On the contrary, technological advancement in esoteric testing and surge in number of diagnostic testing are expected to offer remunerative opportunity for expansion of the esoteric testing market during the forecast period.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $24.2 billion Market Size in 2032 $68.5 billion CAGR 11.0 % No. of Pages in Report 307 Segments covered Type, Technology, End User, and Region. Drivers Increase in prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases Increase in awareness about early disease diagnosis and personalized medicine Increase in number of medical laboratories Opportunity Technological advancements in esoteric testing Restraint High cost of esoteric testing



Economic Downturn Analysis: Impact of Recession in 2023 on the Esoteric Testing Market-

In the economic recession, the growth esoteric testing market is driven by various actions taken by the market players such as arrangement of various programs to reduce cost structure.

However, fluctuations in the shipping cost and increase in manufacturing and operating costs impact the esoteric testing market growth.

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The infectious disease testing segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on type, the infectious disease segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than one-fifth of the esoteric testing market revenue and is estimated to rule the roost throughout the forecast timeframe. The growth is attributed to an increase in prevalence of infectious diseases and increase in number of infectious diseases testing. However, genetic testing is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 13.0% from 2023 to 2032, owing to launch of new advanced genetic testing methods and increase in genetic testing.

The chemiluminescence immunoassay segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period

Based on technology, the chemiluminescence immunoassay segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to nearly one-fourth of the esoteric testing market revenue and is expected to retain its dominance during the forecast period. This is due to the rapid analysis of analytes by chemiluminescence immunoassay. However, DNA sequencing is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 13.1% from 2023 to 2032, owing to increase in use of DNA sequencing method for esoteric testing.

The independent and reference laboratories segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on end user, the independent and reference laboratories segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than half of the esoteric testing market revenue and is expected to maintain its dominant status during he forecast period. The growth is attributed to a surge in number of testing from independent and reference laboratories and increase in number of laboratories. However, hospital-based laboratories is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 11.2% from 2023 to 2032, owing to surge in number of patients undergoing esoteric testing from hospital settings.

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North America to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, North America held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for more than half of the esoteric testing market revenue and is expected to rule the roost during the forecast period. This is due to the availability of developed healthcare infrastructure and increase in number of diagnostic tests. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 12.1% from 2023 to 2032, owing to increase in prevalence of chronic diseases and development of medical technology company.

Leading Market Players:

Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings

ARUP Laboratories

Opko Health Inc.

Quest Diagnostics Inc.

F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

Stanford Health Care

Healius Limited

Athena Esoterix LLC

Sonic Healthcare Limited.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players of the esoteric testing market. These players have adopted strategies such as, product launch, collaboration, and product approval to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

Comprehensive Healthcare Industry Research Studies:

Syphilis Testing Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2032

Capsule Endoscopy System Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

Micromanipulators Market- Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

Flow Cytometry Market- Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH) Devices Market- Wearable Injectors Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

Extremity Reconstruction Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

Automated Radiosynthesis Modules Market - Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20202032

About Allied Market Research:

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" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domains. AMR offers its services across 11 industry verticals including Life Sciences, Consumer Goods, Materials & Chemicals, Construction & Manufacturing, Food & Beverages, Energy & Power, Semiconductor & Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, ICT & Media, Aerospace & Defense, and BFSI.

We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.

Contact

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SOURCE Allied Market Research
Company recognized for the fifth consecutive year in U.S., the third year in Canada and India, second year in the United Kingdom and Singapore, and first-time certifications in Japan and Poland.

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- EVERSANA, a leading provider of global commercial services to the life sciences industry, once again has been named a Great Place to Work by the leading authority in workplace culture. The culture-focused company earned the recognition for the fifth consecutive year in the United States, the third straight year in Canada and India, the second time in both the United Kingdom and Singapore, and for the first time in Japan and Poland.

Based on an anonymous survey sent to more than 7,000 employees worldwide, EVERSANA earned the 2023-2024 certification during rapid global growth. Over the last year alone the company has increased its workforce and expanded its commercialization services, most recently with the addition of Healthware Group in early October 2023.

"Year-after-year this award gives us goosebumps because we know our company is only as good as our people. We must be a Great Place to Work in order to make a great impact for our clients and their patients," said Jim Lang, CEO, EVERSANA. "This year we are especially proud to be certified in a growing number of countries worldwide. Every day we live our vision to create a healthier world for all  not just in what we do, but how we operate and support each other."

The Great Place to Work accolade measures companies against organizations of similar size and industry. The certification provides a valuable benchmark for employees and reinforces the company's commitment to retaining and attracting the best talent to serve its clients worldwide.

Key findings in the survey include:

Overall employee satisfaction remains high at more than 80%

89% of employees stated they were made to feel welcomed when hired and 86% affirmed that people care about each other.

The company continues to embrace diversity and equality. Nearly 90% of employees verified they are treated fairly, regardless of their sexual orientation, race, gender or age.

For a full list of Great Place to Work-Certified companies, including EVERSANA, click here.

About EVERSANA

EVERSANA is the leading independent provider of global services to the life sciences industry. The company's integrated solutions are rooted in the patient experience and span all stages of the product life cycle to deliver long-term, sustainable value for patients, prescribers, channel partners and payers. The company serves more than 670 organizations, including innovative start-ups and established pharmaceutical companies, to advance life sciences solutions for a healthier world. To learn more about EVERSANA, visit eversana.com or connect through LinkedIn and Twitter.

About Great Place to Work

Great Place to Work is the global authority on workplace culture. It helps organizations quantify their culture and produce better business results by creating a high trust work experience for all employees. Emprising, its culture management platform, empowers leaders with the surveys, real-time reporting and insights they need to make data-driven people decisions. The company uses its unparalleled benchmark data to recognize Great Place to Work-Certified companies and the Best Workplaces in the U.S. and more than 60 other countries, including Fortune's annual list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For. To learn more, visit greatplacetowork.com.

Media:

EVERSANA

Matt Braun

Director, Corporate Communications

[email protected]

+1 414-434-4830

SOURCE EVERSANA
CHANHASSEN, Minn., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Experience Life, the print and digital magazine from Life Time (NYSE: LTH), the nation's premier healthy lifestyle brand, was awarded four Eddies and Ozzies as part of the 2023 FOLIO: Awards, the most prestigious recognition program in the publishing community.

From left to right: David Freeman (Life Time Talks Podcast co-host and Director of Alpha Programming at Life Time), Jamie Martin (Editor in Chief of Experience Life and Life Time Talks Podcast co-host), Courtney Helgoe (Features Editor of Experience Life) and Maggie Fazeli Fard (Senior Fitness Editor at Experience Life).

The awards, handed out on October 24, included naming Jamie Martin Editor of the Year and the Life Time Talks podcast, hosted by Martin and David Freeman, Life Time's Director of Alpha, as top podcast in the consumer health, fitness, medical or wellness category. In addition, Experience Life earned eight Eddie and Ozzie nominations, taking home the top awards in four categories:

Winner: Full Issue, Consumer Health/Fitness/Wellness: March 2023 issue

issue Winner: Best Blog or Column, Consumer Health/Wellness: Pumping Irony by Craig Cox

Winner: Best Podcast, Consumer Health/Fitness/MedicalWellness: Life Time Talks

Winner: Overall Art Direction, Consumer

Finalist: Full Issue, Consumer Health/Fitness/Wellness: January/ February 2023 issue

issue Finalist: Range of Work by a Single Author, Consumer: Mo Perry

Finalist: Single Article, Consumer Health/Fitness/Wellness: "The Road to Good Boundaries"

Finalist: Single Article, Consumer Health/Fitness/Wellness: "The Enneagram of Fitness"

Martin joined Experience Life in June 2005 as an intern, quickly elevating to other roles including digital director and executive editor before being named editor in chief in 2016. Since then, Martin and the Experience Life team have worked to provide readers with realistic, actionable and empowering information about health and wellness, nutrition, fitness, personal development, life balance, sustainable living, and more.

Under Martin's leadership, Experience Life has won multiple regional and national awards for its print and digital content. Since the publication's inception it has won more than 100 regional and national awards. Martin is also the vice president of content strategy for Life Time, helping to further establish the company as a thought leader in the healthy-living space.

"It's such an honor to be nominated by my team and to be recognized by the FOLIO: Eddie & Ozzie judging committee as editor of the year," said Martin. "I am so fortunate to be able to lead an initiative that aligns so closely with my personal values and passions, and to do this with an incredible team that is dedicated to editorial excellence and constant evolution and innovation  there is no other team like this. We are thrilled to receive this recognition and look forward to continuing our mission."

Experience Life was founded in 2001 and serves as an integrated healthy-living media brand committed to empowering its readers to improve their health and fitness while enjoying their healthiest, happiest, most satisfying lives. The magazine publishes six times annually and is available by subscription and on select newsstands nationwide. It currently has an estimated market reach of two million per issue with a circulation of 600,000 households. New digital content is served up daily on experiencelife.com, lifetime.life and on the Life Time Digital app, which is found in the Apple and Google Play stores.

About Experience Life

Experience Life is a whole-life health and wellness magazine that empowers readers to live their healthiest, happiest, and most authentic lives. They provide comprehensive coverage on a range of topics from nutrition to sustainability to fitness and more. For more information visit www.experiencelife.lifetime.life

About Life Time

Life Time (NYSE: LTH) empowers people to live healthy, happy lives through its portfolio of 170 athletic country clubs across the United States and Canada. The Company's healthy way of life communities and ecosystem address all aspects of healthy living, healthy aging and healthy entertainment for people 90 days to 90+ years old. Supported by a team of more than 37,000 dedicated professionals, Life Time is committed to providing the best programs and experiences through its clubs, iconic athletic events and comprehensive digital platform.

SOURCE Life Time, Inc.
LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fastmarkets, an industry-leading cross-commodity price reporting agency (PRA), is creating transparency in the battery raw materials market with the launch of free-on-board (FOB) Indonesia prices for nickel pig iron (NPI) and mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP).

NPI and MHP are key products in the nickel industry. NPI is used in the production of stainless steel and increasingly in the production of other nickel intermediates. MHP is vital in the production of intermediate components for nickel-rich cathode lithium-ion batteries, particularly nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry batteries.

Nickel produced in Indonesia represents more than half of global nickel production, a level which is forecast to rise to up to 70% of global production by 2030. Production of class 2, non-LME deliverable nickel products is growing from established production hubs, of which Indonesia is the global leader. Fastmarkets' decision to launch these prices highlights the critical role Indonesia plays in the global metal and battery raw material supply chains.

Regional and product price divergence has been a consistent trend across nickel markets globally, creating the need for more granular price reporting. These new NPI and MHP prices FOB Indonesia will contribute to Fastmarkets' existing suite of nickel prices, which include assessments on a delivered duty paid (ddp) China basis for NPI and on a cif China, Japan and South Korea basis for MHP.

Raju Daswani, CEO of Fastmarkets, said: "The global nickel market is undergoing a major structural transformation, propelled by the demand for electric vehicles. Fastmarkets has worked closely with industry stakeholders, including major producers, the Indonesian government and trade bodies, to facilitate the introduction of the prices we're unveiling today. This launch represents a critical milestone in delivering the transparency that the market needs as it navigates this period of change. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the market with trusted prices and analysis."

The new FOB Indonesia main ports prices will be assessed daily and published at 4pm London time. The price specifications can be found here.

ABOUT FASTMARKETS

Fastmarkets is an industry-leading price reporting agency (PRA) and information provider for global commodities, providing price data, news, analytics and events for the agriculture, forest products, metals and mining, and new generation energy markets. Fastmarkets' data is critical for customers seeking to understand and predict dynamic, sometimes opaque markets, enabling trading and risk management. Fastmarkets is a global business with a history dating back to 1865 and is built on trust and deep market knowledge. It has more than 500 employees spread across global locations in the UK, US, China, Singapore, Brazil, Belgium and Finland. Fastmarkets is an Astorg portfolio company.

SOURCE Fastmarkets
Support for grassroots organizations in Brazil , Kenya and India .

Initiatives aim to take on some of humanity's most pressing priorities.

Thousands of lives and communities will be positively impacted.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The FII Institute, the global non-profit organization that brings people together to deliver actionable solutions to the world's most pressing challenges, is proud to announce the launch of four initiatives on three continents that will have long-lasting and sustainable impact for thousands of people in local communities.

FII INSTITUTE PARTNERS WITH GRASSROOTS ORGANISATIONS TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY AND ENHANCE EDUCATION IN LOW AND MIDDLE INCOME COUNTRIES

In Brazil, FII Institute has partnered with ARCA, a grassroots community-based organization aiming to increase access to digital devices amongst youth, young adults and entrepreneurs in the oldest favela of Sao Paulo. The initiative will benefit 80 children and teenagers enrolled in school, 150 youths and adults in professional training, and 10 small business entrepreneurs. Some 8,000 people who live in the favela are involved in the initiative.

In Kenya, FII Institute has joined KenyaConnect to launch two initiatives in sustainability and education in rural Kenya.

- In education, FII Institute will help equip three schools in rural areas with computer labs and equipment to catalyze their coding and robotics clubs. Three schools with 875 students and 40 teachers will have access to digital learning, with another three primary schools with 671 students also involved in the project.

- In sustainability, FII Institute will provide reliable access to clean water to 26 schools in rural Kenya by installing 26 tanks to collect rainwater. This initiative will directly benefit 6500 students and teachers who currently lack ready access to clean and drinkable water.

In India, FII-Institute has partnered with Grameena Vikas Kendram Society in a project to provide sustainable drinking water to rural communities in Andhra Pradesh by providing clean drinking water in villages through installing advanced water filters. The project will directly benefit 225 families, or more than a thousand individuals, who currently face challenges in accessing clean water supplies.

Richard Attias, CEO of Future Investment Initiative Institute:

"FII Institute is proud to back these valuable projects, which will directly benefit thousands of people at the grassroots level. The Institute's mission is to bring about meaningful and impactful solutions to real-world challenges, and these initiatives are the perfect illustration of that philosophy in action."

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global nonprofit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global and inclusive, we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258661/FII_Institute.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1811613/4364928/FII_Institute_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Future Investment Initiative Institute
Firm joins LPL Financial's largest enterprise

FORT MILL, S.C. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Financial Resources Group Investment Services, LLC (Financial Resources Group) announces their partnership with Wealth E&P of Alpharetta, GA. Wealth E&P is registered under the nation's largest independent broker-dealer1, LPL Financial, and brings over $300 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets2. They join from Triad Advisors, LLC.

Wealth E&P

"We are excited to welcome Wealth E&P, a fantastic team dedicated to providing the best possible services to their clients," said Steve Lank, President of Financial Resources Group. "Partnering with an organization that shares similar values as our firm with a client-centric approach, brings us excitement as we look forward to helping them enhance their offerings for their clients."

A Passion for Serving Others

After deciding to become a Financial Planner as a junior in high school, Wealth E&P founder Darrin S. Cohen, CFP has always had a life-long passion for helping others obtain financial confidence. As a result, Cohen founded Wealth E&P in 2002 with the goal to help others plan for financial security. The team is driven by their passion to develop customized roadmaps for their clients' unique financial situations and helps them work toward achieving their goals, whether it be planning for a comfortable retirement, protecting their estate, or reviewing long-term care options.

Technology Enhancements

Wealth E&P is pleased to join Financial Resources Group and LPL Financial which now allow them to access to additional offerings for their client base. "We survey our clients regularly to get their feedback and learn how we can better serve them," said Cohen. "Recent feedback has been that our clients would like access to better technology and portfolio management solutions. Based on our team's due diligence efforts, we concluded LPL could best help us achieve those objectives on behalf of our clients."

Wealth E&P joins a list of over 1,000 financial professionals Financial Resources Group supports as a company dedicated to helping financial advisors grow their businesses.

"Wealth E&P is a great group that takes pride in providing a higher-level service to their clients," said J.J. Hudock, Director of Business Development. "They are a great fit for Financial Resources Group and LPL Financial."

About Financial Resources Group

Based in Fort Mill, SC, Financial Resources Group is LPL Financial's largest enterprise3, providing customized services to financial advisors and financial institutions to help them grow their programs and practices. Representatives are registered through LPL Financial as their broker-dealer. For more information on Financial Resources Group, visit www.financialresourcesgroup.net

About Wealth E&P

Wealth E&P provides individuals with personalized wealth management strategies that seek to allow them to maintain their lifestyle with the goal of growing their assets. The firm specializes in providing retirement income planning, asset accumulation and preservation. For more information, visit www.wealthep.com

About LPL Financial

LPL Financial is a leader in the retail financial advice market and the nation's largest independent broker-dealer*. They serve independent financial advisors, professionals, and institutions, providing them with the technology, research, clearing and compliance services, and practice management programs they need to create and grow thriving practices. For more information, visit www.lpl.com

1 As reported by Financial Planning magazine, June 1996-2023, based on total revenue.

2 Value approximated based on asset and holding details provided to LPL from August 2023.

3 Based on assets (brokerage and advisory), total revenue and affiliated professionals as of July 2023.

Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Financial Resources Group Investment Services, member FINRA/SIPC, is a separate entity. Wealth E&P, Financial Resources Group Investment Services and LPL Financial are not affiliated.

Contact Information:

Financial Resources Group

Steve Lank

[email protected]

704-816-8018

SOURCE Financial Resources Group Investment Services
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, October 26. Uzbekistan has proposed to develop and adopt a program of new economic dialogue within the framework of the activities of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), Trend reports.

The remark was made by Uzbekistans Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov during an extended meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek.

"We propose to start developing and adopting the program of the new SCO economic dialogue, which will cover such areas as innovative development, digitalization and robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, pharmacology, and other industries of the future," Aripov said.

The meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government in Bishkek is attended by the Prime Ministers of Belarus, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, the Premier of the State Council of China, the Deputy Prime Minister of Turkmenistan, and the Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan.

The program of the meetings includes discussions of the topical issues of interaction and strengthening cooperation between the member countries of the SCO. Moreover, the signing of a number of documents in the trade, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres is also considered.

The next meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government will take place in Pakistan.
The financial wellness benefits market is driven by an increasing financial stress among individuals, employee retention and productivity, and rising growth in early wage access.

WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Financial Wellness Benefits Market by Program (Financial Planning, Financial Education and Counselling, Retirement Planning, Debt Management, and Others), Platform (One-On-One, Online, And Group), and End User (Large Businesses and Small & Medium-Sized Businesses): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20232032". According to the report, the global Financial Wellness Benefits industry generated $2 billion in 2022 and is anticipated to generate $7 billion by 2032, witnessing a CAGR of 13.8% from 2023 to 2032.

Financial wellness benefits serve as a marketplace where companies can explore a variety of tools aimed at enhancing their employees' financial stability. Within this market, businesses discover an array of resources designed to bolster the financial health of their workforce. These resources encompass offerings such as financial education programs, assistance with retirement planning, or the availability of financial advisors. Essentially, it operates as a comprehensive hub for all things related to financial management. Businesses allocate resources to these benefits to empower their employees to flourish financially, alleviate stress, and realize their financial objectives.

Request Research Report Sample & TOC: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/231091

Prime Determinants of Growth

The financial wellness benefits market is driven by an increasing financial stress among individuals, employee retention and productivity, and rising growth in early wage access. However, budget constraints and lack of employee engagement restrain market growth to some extent. Nevertheless, leveraging technology such as AI-driven financial tools and mobile apps will offer ample growth opportunities in the upcoming years.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $2 billion Market Size in 2032 $7 billion CAGR 13.8 % No. of Pages in Report 407 Segments Covered Program, Platform, End User, and Region. Drivers Increasing financial stress among individuals Employee Retention and Productivity Increasing Growth in Early Wage Access Opportunities Leveraging technology such as AI-driven financial tools and mobile apps Restraints Budget Constraints Lack of Employee Engagement

COVID-19 Scenario

The COVID-19 pandemic had a moderate impact on the financial wellness benefits market. The economic uncertainty and financial hardships caused by the pandemic led to a heightened demand for financial wellness programs. Many employees faced job losses, reduced income, and increased financial stress, making financial wellness benefits more important than ever.

In addition, the pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital tools and services for managing finances. Consumers increasingly turned to online banking, budgeting apps, and investment platforms. Financial wellness programs adapted by offering more digital resources and tools.

The financial planning segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on the program, the financial planning segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-third of the global financial wellness benefits market revenue and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period, this was attributed to the demand for financial planning benefits is on the rise as individuals seek to secure their financial futures. Key growth factors include increasing awareness about the importance of financial planning, changes in retirement planning dynamics, and a desire for greater financial literacy. However, the retirement planning segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 17.1% from 2023 to 2032, owing to increased awareness about the importance of retirement planning has led individuals to seek out financial advice and services, boosting the market. Many employers now offer retirement planning as part of their benefits package, making it more accessible to employees, which is expected to positively impact market growth.

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The one-on-one segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on the platform, the one-on-one segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly half of the global financial wellness benefits market revenue, owing to the growing awareness of the importance of financial well-being in employee retention and productivity is driving employers to invest in such programs. However, the online segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 16.1% from 2022 to 2032, as employers are increasingly adopting online platforms to provide financial education and tools to their employees. The trend towards self-directed learning and the availability of mobile apps further contribute to the growth of online financial wellness benefits. The data collected by online platforms enables personalized financial solutions, tailoring advice, and services to individual needs. This customization drives engagement and trust.

The Large Businesses segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period

Based on end user, the large businesses segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than two-thirds of the global Financial Wellness Benefits market revenue, this is attributed to several key factors such as growing awareness of the importance of employee financial well-being in attracting and retaining top talent. In addition, the ongoing trend of remote and flexible work arrangements has highlighted the need for digital financial wellness solutions, which can be easily integrated into large organizations. However, the small and medium-sized businesses segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 15.7% from 2022 to 2032. The availability of cost-effective digital platforms and apps has made it more accessible for SMBs to implement financial wellness initiatives. The trend towards personalized financial solutions and budgeting tools is likely to continue.

North America to maintain its dominance by 2032

Based on region, North America held the highest market share of around two-fifths in terms of revenue in 2022, many employers in North America have recognized the value of financial wellness programs in attracting and retaining talent. They are increasingly offering a wide range of financial wellness benefits as part of their employee benefits packages. However, the Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 17.4% from 2023 to 2032 and is likely to dominate the market during the forecast period, developed economies, such as Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, employers are increasingly offering comprehensive financial wellness programs. In emerging economies, the focus is often on basic financial education and retirement planning.

Leading Market Players: -

Aon plc

Bank of America Corporation

FMR LLC

Mercer LLC.

MetLife Insurance Limited

Morgan Stanley

Prudential Financial, Inc.

Social Finance, Inc.

The Charles Schwab Corporation

Virgin Pulse

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global financial wellness benefits market. These players have adopted different strategies such as expansion, merger, and product launch 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.

Inquire Before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/231091

Key Benefits for Stakeholders

This financial wellness benefits market report provides a quantitative analysis of the market segments, current trends, estimations, and dynamics of the financial wellness benefits market forecast from 2022 to 2032 to identify the prevailing financial wellness benefits market opportunity.

financial wellness benefits 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 financial wellness benefits market segmentation assists to determine the prevailing market opportunities.

Major countries in each region are mapped according to their revenue contribution to the global financial wellness benefits market.

financial wellness benefits market player positioning facilitates benchmarking and provides a clear understanding of the present position of the market players.

The report includes an analysis of the regional as well as global financial wellness benefits market outlook, key players, market segments, application areas, and market growth strategies.

Financial Wellness Benefits Market Report Highlights

By Program

Financial Planning

Financial Education and Counselling

Retirement Planning

Debt Management

Others

By Platform

One-on-One

Online

Group

By End User

Large Businesses

Small and Medium-sized Businesses

By Region

North America (U.S., Canada )

(U.S., ) Europe (UK, Germany , France , Italy , Spain , Rest of Europe )

(UK, , , , , Rest of ) Asia-Pacific ( China , Japan , India , Australia , South Korea , Rest of Asia-Pacific )

( , , , , , Rest of ) LAMEA ( Latin America , Middle East , Africa )

Key Market PlayersThe Charles Schwab Corporation, FMR LLC, Prudential Financial, Inc., Mercer LLC, Advocate Inc. (Nava), Bank of America Corporation, MetLife Insurance Limited, Morgan Stanley, Virgin Pulse, LLC, Aon plc.

Trending Reports in BFSI Industry (Book Now with 10% Discount + COVID-19 Scenario):

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Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Financial Services Market by Component (Solution and Service), Deployment Mode (On-premise and Cloud), Enterprise Size (Large Enterprises and Small- & Medium-sized Enterprise) Application (Customer Account Management, Fraud Prevention, Reporting & Invoice Automation, Account Opening & KYC, and Others), and End User (Banks, Insurance Companies, Credit Unions, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030

Takaful Insurance Market by Type (Family Takaful, General Takaful), by Distribution Channel (Agents and Brokers, Banks, Direct Response, Others), by Application (.Personal, Commercial): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Peer to Peer Lending Market by Business Model (Traditional Lending, Alternate Marketplace Lending), by Loan Type (Consumer Credit Loans, Small Business Loans, Student Loans, Real estate Loans), by End User (Business, Personal): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032

Surety Market by Bond Type (Contract Surety Bond, Commercial Surety Bond, Fidelity Surety Bond, Court Surety Bond), by End-User (Individuals, Enterprises): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031

Management Consulting Services Market by Type (Strategy Consulting, Operations Consulting, Financial Advisory, Technology Consulting, Human Resources Consulting), by Organization Size (Large Enterprises, Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises), by Industry Vertical (BFSI, IT and Telecom, Manufacturing, Retail and E-Commerce, Public Sector, Healthcare, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031

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SANTA CLARA, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Frost & Sullivan Institute is pleased to announce the Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards, 2023 an esteemed accolade dedicated to honoring visionary companies that have embraced sustainability as the cornerstone of their success. These sustainability pioneers have not only transformed their industries with innovative strategies but have also displayed unwavering commitment to addressing global challenges. From leading the charge in climate action and decarbonization to advocating for responsible resource management, they have paved the way for a more sustainable and equitable world.

The Frost & Sullivan Institute takes immense pleasure in congratulating all the winners of the 2023 Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards for their outstanding contributions to their respective industries and society at large.

"The 2023 Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards recognize companies that have redefined the very essence of success. They are a shining example that prosperity and global betterment can walk hand in hand, proving that success isn't merely a financial destination but a transformative journey. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these remarkable companies for their unyielding commitment to sustainable development and their role in creating opportunities that enrich all stakeholders.," expressed, Prerna Mohan, Director, Frost & Sullivan Institute.

With our proprietary eight-step methodology, backed by extensive research and thorough analysis, the Frost & Sullivan Institute meticulously appraised nominees to choose the honorees. The selection process rigorously gauged essential performance indicators such as growth excellence, alignment with global 'innovating to zero' priorities, optimizing the customer value chain, and leveraging technological advancements. These awardees undeniably embody excellence in enlightened growth leadership.

The Frost & Sullivan Institute takes immense pleasure in congratulating all the winners of the 2023 Enlightened Growth Leadership Awards for their outstanding contributions to their respective industries and society at large. In recognition of their remarkable achievements, these exceptional companies will be celebrated and honored at our prestigious awards banquet in the vibrant city of Prague on 15th November 2023.

Recipients:

Volaris

Globant S.A.

HAPVIDA PARTICIPACOES E INVESTIMENTOS SA

MOLYMET SA

NATURA & CO

Yara Fertilizantes

Abu Dhabi National Energy Company

ACWA POWER

Aksa Energy

ALDREES

ALUMINIUM BAHRAIN B.S.C.

Anglo American Platinum

Arabian Internet & Communications Services Co

ART Corporation Holdings Limited

Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Group

Elm Company

Gold Fields Limited

Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited

Impala Platinum Holdings Limited

Industries Qatar

Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (PLC)

Lapidoth Capital Ltd.

Northam Platinum Holdings Limited

Playtika LTD

Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC).

Sipchem Company

Ma'aden

Saudi Arabian Oil Co.

Telecom Egypt

About Frost & Sullivan Institute

The Frost & Sullivan Institute (FSI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to utilizing business practices to address global priorities. The genesis of the institute goes back to the vision of either creating or becoming part of a solution that addresses threats to humanity. The Institute has identified strategic imperatives for transformation and believes that we can truly accelerate innovation to zero. To learn more about FSI, visit www.frostandsullivaninstitute.org

About Frost & Sullivan

For six decades, Frost & Sullivan has been world-renowned for its role in helping investors, corporate leaders, and governments navigate economic changes and identify disruptive technologies, Mega Trends, new business models, and companies to action, resulting in a continuous flow of growth opportunities to drive future success. Contact us: Start the discussion.

Media Contact:

Bivechana Gautam

Email: [email protected]

Related Links

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SOURCE Frost & Sullivan
Company will continue operating one of the world's largest accounting systems.

FALLS CHURCH, Va., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), announced today that it was awarded a $450 million contract by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to continue operating and modernizing its Healthcare Integrated General Ledger Accounting System (HIGLAS). The contract has an eight-month base period with seven option years.

General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), a business unit of General Dynamics, announced today that it was awarded a $450 million contract by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to continue operating and modernizing its Healthcare Integrated General Ledger Accounting System (HIGLAS). (PRNewsfoto/General Dynamics Information Technology)

HIGLAS is a single, integrated accounting system that standardizes and centralizes federal financial accounting for all of CMS's programs. As one of the largest accounting systems in the world, HIGLAS enables CMS to enhance the oversight of its financial operations and achieve accurate, reliable and timely accounting of the agency's programs. HIGLAS processes approximately 4.5 million Medicare claims daily and over $2 trillion in payments annually in support of more than 147 million Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries.

Under the contract, GDIT will continue to partner with CMS to modernize the HIGLAS system, in addition to managing critical day-to-day operations. GDIT will also leverage its artificial intelligence/machine learning capabilities to analyze trends and patterns to determine potential anomalies in accounting data. Additionally, GDIT will provide management services and host the HIGLAS primary data processing and disaster recovery systems to ensure 24/7/365 system reliability.

"Our continued support of HIGLAS enables us to further advance CMS's commitment to improve the quality, efficiency and fiscal soundness of its most mission-critical systems," said Kamal Narang, GDIT vice president and general manager for Federal Health. "We look forward to continuing our partnership with CMS and reimagining ways to deliver agile, innovative and secure solutions that enable millions to access healthcare services."

GDIT has supported CMS for more than 40 years. In addition to HIGLAS, GDIT hosts one of the largest clouds in the federal government that supports tens of millions of Americans through health insurance marketplace websites. The company also deploys machine learning to detect fraud, waste and abuse among billions of Medicare claims.

General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; ship construction and repair; land combat vehicles, weapons systems, and munitions; and technology products and services. General Dynamics employs more than 100,000 people worldwide and generated $39.4 billion in revenue in 2022. More information about General Dynamics Information Technology is available at www.gdit.com. More information about General Dynamics is available at www.gd.com.

SOURCE General Dynamics
DUBLIN, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Data Center Rack Market - Outlook & Forecast 2023-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





The global data center rack market is expected to reach a value of $3.14 billion by 2028 from $2.04 billion in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 7.5%

The global data center rack market is experiencing robust growth, driven by collaborative alliances between data center operators and rack vendors. Key players in the industry, including Schneider Electric, Vertiv Group, Eaton, Rittal, and Legrand, offer rack infrastructure solutions. Moreover, IT infrastructure providers such as HPE, Dell Technologies, and IBM have formed partnerships to deliver pre-installed IT infrastructure solutions for data centers.

Revenue generation for these vendors is influenced by factors such as the breadth of their product offerings, competitive pricing, and the quality of pre- and post-installation services. The market features both local and global providers, contributing to its dynamism.

Sustainability and energy efficiency have gained significance in the data center industry as data centers continue to expand in size and complexity, leading to increased energy consumption and carbon emissions. This has fueled the demand for sustainable data center racks that can reduce energy consumption and minimize environmental impact.

Edge computing, characterized by remote and rugged environments, necessitates lightweight, portable, and robust data center racks. These racks must accommodate various IT equipment and cooling solutions. Some vendors are developing edge-specific racks optimized for edge computing workloads, featuring power distribution units (PDUs) supporting multiple power sources and redundant cooling systems.

The ascent of hybrid IT infrastructure, blending on-premises and cloud-based systems, drives the need for flexible and scalable racks. Hybrid IT enables organizations to harness the advantages of both on-premises and cloud infrastructure, enhancing agility in workload and application management.

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region dominates the data center rack market, with a projected CAGR of approximately 8.52% during the forecast period. APAC organizations are constructing high-performance-computing data centers, driving demand for advanced, high-capacity racks.

China's flourishing digital economy, led by sectors such as e-commerce, real estate, BFSI (Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance), healthcare, and government, contributes to increased investments in rack infrastructure and support infrastructure.

MARKET TRENDS & OPPORTUNITIES

Increasing Deployments of Edge Data Centers



The increase in edge data center installations is expected to boost the demand for racks in data centers. Edge data centers are smaller and located closer to where data is used, like smart devices and apps. This means there's a need for compact racks that fit well in smaller spaces.

These racks might also need to be flexible to hold different types of equipment and help with cooling and power distribution to keep things running smoothly. Moreover, the demand for edge data centers has significantly increased due to increased data generation. As a result, data center racks and cabinets have become essential components of a business's IT infrastructure, thereby supporting the data center rack market growth.



The Procurement of Open Rack Architecture



Open rack infrastructure adoption in data centers has been increasing in recent years, driven by the need for greater flexibility, interoperability, and cost savings. Open rack infrastructure refers to a standardized rack and power distribution unit (PDU) design that enables users to easily mix and match hardware components from different vendors.

Hence, standardized rack designs can work with various equipment rather than racks with specific designs that only fit certain things. Using these open racks allows data centers to be more flexible with their equipment, saving money and making operations more efficient. This trend also encourages collaboration among companies to develop improved ideas for racks and equipment.

KEY QUESTIONS ANSWERED:

How big is the data center rack market?

What is the growth rate of the global data center rack market?

What are the key trends in the data center rack industry?

How big is the global data center rack market regarding unit shipment?

Who are the prominent rack provider companies in the global data center rack market?

Rack Standards in Data Centers

National Electrical Manufacturers Association (Nema)

Electronic Industries Alliance (Eia)

International Electrotechnical Commission (Iec)

Increased Rack Power Density

Market Opportunities & Trends

Increased Deployment of Edge Data Centers

Procurement of Open Rack Architecture

Market Growth Enablers

Increased Data Center & Hyperscale Investments

Preference for Modular Data Centers

Rise in Procurement of Tall, Deep & Wide Racks

Market Restraints

Supply Chain Disruptions

Availability of Low-Cost Solutions

Innovations in IT Infrastructure Hampers Rack Adoption

Adoption of Immersion Cooling Solutions

Prominent Data Center Rack Providers

Eaton

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

Legrand

Schneider Electric

Rittal

Vertiv Group

Other Prominent Data Center Rack Providers

Austin Hughes Electronics

Beijing Finen Electronic Equipment

Belden

Black Box Corporation (AGC Networks)

Cannon Technologies

Canovate

Chatsworth Products

Cisco Systems

Conteg

Cyber Power Systems

Dataracks

Delta Electronics

Enconnex

FUJITSU

Great Lakes Data Racks And Cabinets

International Business Machines (IBM)

Inspur

Panduit

Prism Enclosures

Rack Solutions

Rahi Systems

Retex

Schroff (nVent)

StarTech.com

USystems

Segmentation by Product

Enclosures & Cabinets

Accessories

Segmentation by End-Users

Colocation Data Centers

Enterprise Data Centers

Segmentation by Rack Size

Below 42U

42U

45U-47U

48U

Other Rack Units

Segmentation by Geography

North America

US

Canada

Latin America

Brazil

Mexico

Other Latin American Countries

Western Europe

UK

Germany

France

Netherlands

Spain

Italy

Other Western European Countries

Nordics

Denmark

Sweden

Norway

Finland & Iceland

& Central & Eastern Europe

Russia

Poland

Other Central & Eastern European Countries

Middle East

UAE

Saudi Arabia

Other Middle Eastern Countries

Africa

South Africa

Other African Countries

APAC

China

Hong Kong

Australia

New Zealand

India

Japan

South Korea

Taiwan

Rest of APAC

Southeast Asia

Singapore

Malaysia

Indonesia

Thailand

Other Southeast Asian Countries

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/rq4yh8

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:

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SOURCE Research and Markets
DUBLIN, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Massive MIMO - Global Strategic Business Report" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.





Global Massive MIMO Market to Reach $77.1 Billion by 2030



The global market for Massive MIMO estimated at US$2.8 Billion in the year 2022, is projected to reach a revised size of US$77.1 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 51.5% over the analysis period 2022-2030.

The global wireless communication market is experiencing significant growth, with a strong focus on technologies such as LTE Advanced and 5G. According to a comprehensive report, LTE Advanced is projected to achieve a remarkable 41.3% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) and reach US$25.2 Billion, while the LTE Advanced Pro segment is estimated to grow at an impressive 52% CAGR over the next eight years.

The report offers a comprehensive analysis of the wireless communication market, covering a wide range of technologies, geographic regions, spectrum bands, and antenna configurations. Key technologies such as Massive MIMO, LTE Advanced, LTE Advanced Pro, and 5G are explored, along with various spectrum bands and antenna configurations ranging from 8T8R to 128T128R and above.

In the United States, the Massive MIMO market is estimated at US$808.2 Million in 2022. Meanwhile, China, the world's second-largest economy, is forecasted to reach a market size of US$22.2 Billion by 2030, with a remarkable CAGR of 61.7% during the analysis period from 2022 to 2030.

The report provides data from 2020 to 2030, offering valuable insights into sales, revenues, and percentage breakdowns by region. These tables serve as essential resources for understanding the current trends and future prospects of wireless communication technologies on a global scale.

Other noteworthy geographic markets include Japan and Canada, with growth forecasts of 21.3% and 28.4%, respectively, over the 2022-2030 period. In Europe, Germany is expected to grow at an approximate CAGR of 27%.

For industry professionals and stakeholders, this report is an indispensable tool to gain in-depth insights into the performance and trajectory of key players in the wireless communication market. Notable companies such as Samsung Group, Huawei Technologies, and Qualcomm, among others, are examined in detail.

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

MARKET OVERVIEW

Influencer Market Insights

World Market Trajectories

Telecommunications Industry Faces Pressure Amidst the COVID-19 Outbreak

Telecom Sector: A Critical Support System for COVID-19 Crisis Management

COVID-19 Crisis Adversely Impacts Evolution of 5G

Demand for 5G Smartphones Likely to be Muted in 2020

Growing Focus on Connectivity Spells Bright Long-term Future for the Telecom Sector

Pandemic Crisis Weakens Economic Environment, Triggering Negative Tide in GDP

World Economic Growth Projections (Real GDP, Annual % Change) for 2019, 2020 & 2021

An Introduction to Massive MIMO

Pros and Cons of Massive MIMO

Massive Increase in Data Consumption Propels Global Massive MIMO Market

Massive MIMO to Make Considerable Gains in 5G Era

Competition

Number of Massive MIMO Products offered by Major Vendors

A Glance at Select Innovations

World Brands

Recent Market Activity

Massive MIMO - Global Key Competitors Percentage Market Share in 2022 (E)

Competitive Market Presence - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial for Players Worldwide in 2022 (E)

MARKET TRENDS & DRIVERS

Attributes such as High Signal to Noise Ratio and Link Reliability Make Massive MIMO a Preferred Technology

Surge in Need for High Speed Internet and Growth in Data Volumes on Portable Devices Favor Massive MIMO Market Growth

Breakdown of Network Latency (in Milliseconds) by Network Type

Rise in Proliferation of Smartphones and Surging Demand for High-Speed Data Communications Present Growth Potential

Base Station Antennas Play Vital Role for Mobile Telecommunication Companies

Massive MIMO Finds Immense Use in Mobile Communications Market for Software Implementation: A Growth Indicator

Global Wireless Data Communication Market: Revenues in US$ Billion for the Years 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2024

Disruptive Popularity of 802.11ac Wave 2 Turbocharges Growth in Massive MIMO Market

Massive MIMO: Boon for Next-Generation Mobile Networks

Advancements in 4G LTE & 4.5G Data Models Drives Rapid Demand for Massive MIMO

Global 4G LTE Market Size (in US$ Billion) for the Years 2018, 2020, 2022 & 2024

Global Number of Mobile 4G LTE Subscriptions (in Million) for 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023 & 2025

Transition towards High Speed 5G Networks to Spur Massive MIMO Implementations

Global Smartphone Subscription Breakdown by Technology: 2019 and 2025

5G Smartphone Sales in Million Units: 2019-2022

mmWave Band for 5G Network

Use of 5G Chipsets for mmWave

All-Programmable RFSoCs to Deal with System Complexity

Key Deployment Challenges for Massive MIMO in 5G Networks

Usage of Massive MIMO in High Throughput and Long Range Applications Continues to Increase

Beamforming and Massive MIMO: The Foundation of Signal Processing in 5G Networks

Combined Capabilities of mmWave Bands and Massive MIMO Offer Significant Potential for Next Gen Wireless Communication Systems

Growing Pressure on Wireless Networks Enhances Importance of Advanced Base Station Antennas

FDD Solutions Vital for Enabling Massive MIMO

Key Research Areas in Massive MIMO Technology Space

Major Challenges Confronting Massive MIMO Market

Massive MIMO Brings More Complexity

Need for Accurate Channel Modeling to Understand Complexity

Need for New Modeling Techniques

Operators Eye Hybrid Approach to Overcome Concerns Typical to Massive MIMO

FOCUS ON SELECT PLAYERS (Total 35 Featured)

Samsung Group

Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.

AT&T, Inc.

Nokia Corporation

Qualcomm, Inc.

Xilinx, Inc.

CommScope, Inc.

Sunrise Communications AG

Comba Telecom Systems Holdings Ltd.

Panorama Antennas Ltd.

Parallel Wireless, Inc.

Galtronics Corporation

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4v54o1

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

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SOURCE Research and Markets
Global poll sampling 50,000 people from 23 countries highlights increasing discontent across a range of issues

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A global survey commissioned by non-profit Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute, in partnership with Accenture is released today. It identifies predominant issues of concern to citizens across the world.

The survey, known as the FII PRIORITY Compass, is an annual research exercise which polls individuals from a range of ages, backgrounds and countries, informing policy development and providing data for leaders, CEOs, policy makers, and organizations to identify with accuracy the sentiments of 60% of the world's population.

GLOBAL SURVEY IDENTIFIES COST OF LIVING, LONELINESS, TECHNOLOGY, CLIMATE CONCERNS DEEPENING

The data plays a vital role in shaping year-round discussions, policy advisory, and investment decisions at the FII Institute. The institute is dedicated to addressing common issues facing humanity, such as economic growth, prosperity, climate change, technology regulation and equitable access to healthcare and education.

This year's FII PRIORITY Compass report identifies several key issues, common to communities across the world:

A 20% drop in people's satisfaction with their personal lives compared to 2022

65% are distressed about cost of living and quality of life

38% report social disconnection and lack of inclusion as a priority concern

Pollution is a concern for 75%

44% globally are concerned about how to afford healthcare

Whilst 72% of those surveyed recognise that technology has democratised access to information, 47% of Africans worry about misleading information

At the FII7 summit currently underway in Riyadh (24 -26 October) 6,000 leaders, investors, experts, academics and innovators are taking part in over 200 panels and discussions designed to tackle the big issues facing humanity. This research will inform these discussions by providing essential insights into the actual issues that impact everyday people.

FII7 happens one month after world leaders gathered in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and six weeks after G20 leaders met in New Delhi. It happens four weeks before world leaders gather to discuss climate action at COP28.

Richard Attias, CEO of the Future Investment Initiative Institute, says:

"The 50,000 people we surveyed in 23 countries give us unparalleled insights into what matters to humanity. We will now investigate everything that we are hearing. At FII7 next week our data-driven agenda will help formulate initiatives and develop resolutions for action. With many of the world's leaders and biggest investors in the room we can play our part in shaping a better and safer world."

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global nonprofit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global and inclusive, we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258667/Future_Investment_Initiative_Institute.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1811613/4361795/FII_Institute_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Future Investment Initiative Institute
BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- When Cao Fengze received a phone call from the Global Times reporters, he was on site at the bustling and dusty construction site by the Kafue River, the longest river located entirely within the African nation measuring an impressive 1,576 kilometers. About 90 kilometers south of Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, along the Kafue River, Cao is stationed at the Kafue Gorge Lower (KGL) hydroelectric power station, which is considered Zambia's Three Gorges Project and the first large-scale hydroelectric power station developed in the country in the last 40 years.

With steely determination, a hard hat and safety gear to boot, one would be hard pressed to imagine that Cao is indeed a graduate from China's prestigious Tsinghua University with a doctorate degree. His working environment is a marked departure from that chosen by his former classmates.

Witnessing and participating in a country's industrial transition and modernization efforts has reaffirmed Cao's faith in choosing an extraordinary path. As millennial, he did not get a chance to see China's transformation into an industrialized powerhouse, but thanks to Belt and Road projects in Africa, he has a front row seat to the transformational process in the continent.

BRI projects across Africa have wide-reaching effects for common citizens and entire countries alike. As the assistant director at the African branch of Power China's subsidiary Sinohydro Bureau 11 Co, he has witnessed not only how a Chinese-funded hydropower plant has benefited a small merchant, a village, but also how China empowers African countries with robust and sustainable development systems by providing them with accessible and affordable public goods.

Escape development dilemma

The story of a small trader in the Zambian capital of Lusaka highlight's Cao's own journey along with the BRI in Africa. Thompson, the owner of a grocery store in Lusaka, makes a living by producing and selling grain products and condiments like peanut butter and hazelnut spread. Before the completion of the KGL hydroelectric power station, exorbitant electricity prices and an unstable voltage coupled with frequent power outages meant that small business owners like Thomson suffered greatly.

Apart from the high cost of electricity being passed on to his customers therefore limiting his sales, small businesses like Thomson's would often be disconnected from the power grid, as they were believed to not have an emergent need for electricity. In March this year, however, things changed for the better after the completion of the KGL hydroelectric power station, which, at full capacity, increased Zambia's overall power generation by 38 percent. The increase means that nearly four out of every 10 people now have access to electricity thanks to the KGL station, and power outages in the capital are increasingly rare.

Cheap and stable electricity has reduced Thompson's overhead costs, which means cheaper product prices, increased sales, and a fuller wallet. Thompson regularly donates his food to needy children in Lusaka. The donated cereal is pre-cooked and specially crushed into fine powder, which can be brewed and consumed by adding clean water, considering that even a kettle is a luxury for the needy children in Zambia.

Thompson believes that food donation cannot fundamentally solve the root problem in his country because the local food production will likely never catch up with the rate of population growth - a typical manifestation of the Malthusian trap.

Thompson's story strengthened Cao's resolve to devote himself to breaking the Malthusian trap in Africa. "You could say Malthusianism is outdated in Western countries, but it is still an obvious problem in most African countries. Their population growth outpaces agricultural production and economic development, causing poverty and depopulation," Cao told the Global Times.

"The fertility rate in some major African countries is above 5, and a lack of female empowerment. If the effects of Malthusianism spill over, developed countries in the world could even be profoundly affected by this massive population change," Cao warned.

"The underlying logic of what we are fighting for here is to support their economic development to outpace the population growth, and we hope to accelerate this process. We can achieve this by supporting basic infrastructure development. As we all know, electricity is the cornerstone of modern life, as it is essential for the development of industries and communication services. Only then can private enterprises, local entrepreneurs, and traders come alive and fully contribute to a revitalized economy. Otherwise, the chances of breaking the cycle of poverty are very slim," Cao explained.

Zambia is far from the only African country faced with a power supply deficit. Cao recalled witnessing power outages in the East African country of Tanzania while working on another hydroelectric project. Comically, Cao was midway through a shower when the power went out, turning off the water, leaving the engineer lathered confusion. Though this is a funny personal memory, the experience encapsulates the challenges faced by ordinary people across the continent.

Currently, the total installed capacity of the KGL station project is 750 megawatts. According to an evaluation by Zambia's state-owned electricity company, ZESCO Limited, which commissioned the construction of the plant, the station can support Zambia's industrial development for the next 70, 80, or even 100 years. The construction of the plant, the station can support Zambia's industrial development for the next 70, 80, or even 100 years.

Providing more opportunities

In Zambia, highly skilled technicians and workers are in extreme short supply. To cultivate qualified personnel to support the projects, the Chinese contractor has established a government-approved training school in Zambia. Students can receive free education and accommodation complete with a living allowance. The school offers six sorted professional training courses such as civil engineering, mechanical maintenance, welding, and surveying. At least 300 skilled talents in the field of infrastructure construction have successfully graduated from training center, and a large number of them chose to join Chinese-built hydroelectric power stations.

"If we truly bring tangible benefits to the local people and empower them in development, why would they be in opposition?" Cao questioned when he was asked about his take on baseless accusations made by some foreign media sources about local people protesting against Chinese BRI projects.

He noted that Chinese contractors also build schools, hospitals, and training centers near and around the projects to fulfill their social responsibilities as contractually agreed upon.

"But it's not like we are building charity or aid projects as many people image. On the contrary, these are standard profit-making projects based on the principle of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation," Cao stressed.

He believes the so-called claims of the Chinese debt trap and neocolonialism are "ridiculous," because "there are no creditors who don't want their debts to be paid on time."

Devoted in a foreign land

Engineer's passion and zeal were evident when he mentioned the progress that he has made each day. He said he felt a great sense of fulfillment when he knew his expertise was contributing to the development of a faraway land. But "extraordinary romance often implies extraordinary hardships," as he said. While working in remote locations is particularly challenging for his counterparts, the strict control of engineering quality is often the most challenging for him.

Along with major work-related concerns come more trivial administrative concerns for a senior engineer like Cao, including cleanliness in the warehouse, dealing with blocked drainage pipes, reprimanding a drunken night-shift driver, and week-long debates on matters as small yet important as the thickness of a concrete reinforcement cover. In the face of the completed dam and the future promise it holds, Cao often thinks back to his hometown, Northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, the industrial cradle of new China.

Decades ago, the vast black soil in northeast China turned into the "granary of the north" because of countless idealistic young people who migrated there to reclaim the northern wilderness. Cao, who grew up there, understands that industrialization is a difficult process, and what is most needed in this process is people with steely determination.

"I hope I am also one of these people with determination and resilience," Cao said.

As African people in countries like Tanzania and Zambia enjoy clean energy, many may never know of the devotion of one young Chinese engineer, whose goal was to help in the revolutionary transformation of the continent. However, hydropower projects across Africa, while heralding the new era of growth and development of the continent, will stand as mute testament to the resilience of those who worked tirelessly to actualize their construction.

SOURCE Global Times
SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (B3: GOLL4 andNYSE: GOL) ("GOL" or "Company").

- Commercial partnership initiated in 2014 to be extended for 10 years, with reciprocal exclusivity on traffic flows between Europe and Brazil.

- Increased commercial cooperation providing improved connectivity, with 125+ destinations covered in Europe and Brazil, covering 99% of demand between the two areas.

- Partnership also covers increased maintenance cooperation, with Air France Industries KLM E&M expanding its support to GOL's CFM56 and LEAP engines.

Air France-KLM and GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes today announced that they have signed an agreement to extend and enhance their commercial partnership for the next 10 years. Under the terms of this agreement, both parties will grant each other exclusivity on routes between Europe and Brazil and enhance their commercial cooperation. This will result in better connectivity, improved customer experience and more benefits for their respective customers.

Initially introduced in 2014 for a period of 5 years, the commercial partnership between Air France-KLM and GOL had already been renewed in 2019. It covers over 99% of the demand between Brazil and Europe and today one out of every five passengers traveling to Brazil with Air France and KLM connects to a GOL flight. In total, over two million passengers have benefited from the partnership since its introduction.

As part of this renewed partnership, Air France, KLM and GOL will continue investing to further improve their customers' experience and create an even more seamless product. Customers will benefit from an optimized network between Europe and Brazil, spanning over 80 European destinations, 45 destinations in Brazil, and in the future, new destinations across Latin America. The agreement additionally includes expanded code-sharing, enhanced joint sales activities, and more benefits for customers via Air France-KLM's Flying Blue and GOL's SMILES frequent flyer programs.

The enhanced collaboration includes an ambitious expansion of the existing maintenance support by Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFIKLME&M) to GOL's CFM56 and LEAP engines.

Benjamin Smith, CEO Air France KLM, stated: "South America, and particularly Brazil, is one of the most strategic markets for Air France-KLM. The historical partnership between Air France-KLM and GOL has been instrumental in allowing us to provide our customers with a comprehensive and broad value proposition in the region. Building on what we've already achieved, we are very pleased to extend and deepen this exclusive partnership for 10 more years. This new agreement will allow us to implement the necessary structural enhancements to ensure Air France-KLM and GOL's leadership position between Brazil and Europe."

Celso Ferrer, GOL CEO: "Our partnership with Air France-KLM has provided countless enhancements and benefits for all of our customers and is based on reciprocal trust and admiration of both companies. We are proud to celebrate another decade of partnership, and I believe it crowns a long and successful history by including key elements such as the credit line for engine overhauls. I reinforce that GOL is deeply committed to support and help to strengthen the Brazil-Europe corridor, and we have no doubt Air France-KLM is the best partner to achieve that."

Optimized connections beyond Air France-KLM and GOL's respective hubs in Europe and Brazil

Air France and KLM passengers can connect on GOL flights beyond Sao Paulo (GRU), Rio de Janeiro (GIG) and Fortaleza (FOR). GOL passengers also have access to Air France and KLM's worldwide networks beyond their Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Amsterdam Schiphol airport hubs.

During the winter 23 season, Air France operates 24 weekly flights to Brazil (14 x Sao Paulo, 7 x Rio de Janeiro and 3 x Fortaleza) while KLM operates 14 weekly flights to Brazil (7 x Sao Paulo, 7 x Rio de Janeiro).

About Air France-KLM

A global player with a strong European base, the Air France-KLM Group's main areas of business are passenger transport, cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance. Air France-KLM is a leading airline Group in terms of international traffic on departure from Europe. It offers its customers access to a worldwide network, covering over 300 destinations thanks to Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Transavia, mainly from its hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol.

Its Flying Blue frequent flyer programme is one of the leaders in Europe with over 20 million members. Together with its partners Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM operates the largest transatlantic joint venture, with more than 340 daily flights in 2019.

Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam, the alliance dedicated to providing passengers with a more seamless travel experience at every step of their journey 19 member airlines working together across an extensive global network.

Recognized for 19 years as an industry leader in sustainable development, the Air France-KLM Group is determined to accelerate the transition to more sustainable aviation.

Air France-KLM press office: + 33 (0)1 41 56 56 00  www.airfranceklm.com - @AirFranceKLM

GOL Investor Relations

[email protected]

www.voegol.com.br/ir

+55 (11) 2128-470

About GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. ("GOL")

GOL is the largest airline in Brazil. leader in the corporate and leisure segments. Since it was founded in 2001. the Company has the lowest unit cost in Latin America. democratizing air transportation. The Company has alliances with American Airlines and Air France-KLM and makes available several codeshares and interline agreements available to Customers. bringing more convenience and simple connections to any place served by these partnerships. With the purpose of "Being the First for All". GOL offers the best travel experience to its passengers. including: the largest number of seats and more space between seats; the greatest platform with internet. movies and live TV; and the best frequent-flyer program. Smiles. In cargo transportation. Gollog delivers orders to different regions in Brazil and abroad. The Company has a team of 13,800 highly qualified aviation professionals focused on Safety. GOL's #1 value. and operates a standardized fleet of 143 Boeing 737 aircraft. The Company's shares are traded on the NYSE (GOL) and the B3 (GOLL4). For further information. go to www.voegol.com.br/ir.

SOURCE GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.
BRIDGEPORT, Conn., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Goodwin University hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, October 25, for the opening of the Harrison Steans Advanced Manufacturing Center, which recently opened on University of Bridgeport's campus. The event drew a crowd from both universities, along with local and state officials, who gathered to celebrate and learn more about this hub for advanced manufacturing education. The center began hosting its first cohort of welding students, taught by Goodwin University faculty, on UB's campus in September for the 2023 fall semester.

George and Carol Bauer, standing with members of the Steans family, along with Goodwin University president Mark Scheinberg and University of Bridgeport president Danielle Wilken, cut the ribbon outside of the Harrison Steans Manufacturing Center.

The Harrison Steans Advanced Manufacturing Center will help fulfill a critical need within the state by providing hands-on training in a field where Connecticut depends on a skilled workforce. Among the distinguished guests were representatives of U.S. Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal, who were helped secure Congressionally Directed Funding for the center's programming.

Other speakers included UB President Danielle Wilken, Goodwin President Mark Scheinberg, CBIA President Chris DiPentima, Chief Manufacturing Officer for the state of CT Paul Lavoie, and Mr. George Bauer  one of the center's primary benefactors. Mr. and Mrs. Bauer provided a generous gift to Goodwin University to name the Center after Mr. Bauer's dear friend and colleague, Harrison Steans. Several members of the Steans family were present to honor the occasion.

Goodwin University faculty and students were deeply involved in the design and buildout of the Steans Center, partnering with University of Bridgeport's Facilities department and project architects to create a state-of-the-art teaching facility. Dr. Cliff Thermer, Dean of Goodwin's School of Business, Technology, and Advanced Manufacturing, shared his vision for the future of skilled workers. "With the cutting of this ribbon, we usher in a new era of possibilities and opportunities. This center is more than just machines and processes; it's about inspiring excellence in all that we do. It is a testament to our dedication to investing in the future." Thermer went on to describe the manufacturing center as "a catalyst for learning, innovation, and the realizations of dreams."

Carrying on the idea of making dreams a reality, Goodwin University President Mark Scheinberg spoke of the center as the result of the vision and collaboration of not only Goodwin University and University of Bridgeport, but of all the people working behind the scenes to provide this opportunity for those looking to grow their skills and enter the field of manufacturing. "Today is a great day," noted Scheinberg. "It is a wonderful way to see how the things we dream of sometimes come true."

Dr. Sal Menzo, Superintendent of Goodwin University Magnet Schools, shared his goals for Goodwin's Early College Advanced Manufacturing Pathway (ECAMP). "I am excited about the many opportunities Goodwin University's manufacturing center at the University of Bridgeport will offer for students in Bridgeport and surrounding communities," said Menzo. He continued, "From manufacturing and robotics to welding, the center will extend valuable learning experiences for students to gain skills that will increase their potential for post-high school success. This center is significant in our continued mission to engage with high school students and keep them focused on achieving their future aspirations."

DiPentima, an alum of University of Bridgeport's school of law, remarked that this project is "the most important workforce-related project happening in our state today." He explained, "This is not the manufacturing center this is the manufacturing epicenter. This is a huge opportunity to really propel our state."

While the 48th smallest state in the country, Connecticut "sits among giants in manufacturing," reflected Lavoie. He pointed out that Connecticut is number one in the country in aerospace parts manufacturing and number two in shipbuilding and repair. "86% of CT manufacturers report that a lack of a skilled workforce is prohibiting their growth," said Lavoie. He further elaborated on the impact that manufacturing training has on the residents of Connecticut, describing that manufacturing jobs "change the trajectory of generations of families." He emphasized that the manufacturing center will directly impact both families in the state and the many manufacturers who keep our state at the top of this important industry. "There is no better time in our state's history to make sure we are doubling down on a well-skilled and well-trained workforce to support our 368 manufacturing companies," said Lavoie.

Last to speak, George Bauer honored his dear friend, the late Harrison Steans, telling the audience of his life, his work, his philanthropy, and his moral compass. Together, the two men supported education programs for high school students, providing a college education for those who graduated. Mr. Bauer noted that they encountered a common obstacle in this work  finding that some successful high school graduates didn't want to attend a traditional college; they wanted to work with their minds and their hands. "When I saw Goodwin's manufacturing facilities, I told myself, 'Harrison, they broke the code. This is what we've been dreaming of,'" said Mr. Bauer. "Harrison would be so pleased with what you've done here."

To learn more about Goodwin University's Bridgeport advanced manufacturing training center, visit www.goodwin.edu/welding

About Goodwin University:

Goodwin University in East Hartford, Connecticut, is an innovative learning community that empowers hard-working students to become sought-after employees. We tailor our programs to address the needs of employers, and we shape them to fit the lives of students. Classes are conveniently offered year-round - days, evenings, weekends, and online. Degrees may be flexibly layered across certificate, associate, bachelor's, and master's programs in a variety of in-demand fields. Better still, we surround our students with the personal support and the professional guidance they need - not just to earn degrees, but to change lives for themselves, their families, and their communities. For more information, please visit www.goodwin.edu.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Phil Moore

Senior Director of Marketing and Communications

Goodwin University

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 860-727-6941

SOURCE Goodwin University
Chris DeBartolo to lead new custom window treatments consultation business in Bentonville

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, welcomes Chris DeBartolo to the franchise family. He is the owner and operator of Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, the first location in Arkansas.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, Gotcha Covered of Bentonville will provide the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in Northwest Arkansas by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

Chris DeBartolo is the owner and operator of Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, the first location in Arkansas.

"We are excited to have our first location in the state of Arkansas," said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. "This is an opportunity to show the homeowners in Northwest Arkansas the importance of having a window treatment partner they can turn to when they redecorate or renovate their homes. We are confident that Chris (DeBartolo) will be an excellent representative of the Gotcha Covered family."

Prior to joining Gotcha Covered, DeBartolo spent 16 years in the medical field as an ophthalmic surgical scrub and LASIK technician. It was his desire to control his own success that encouraged him to join the franchise.

"I wanted the opportunity to control my own future, build a strong relationship with my community and live a more flexible lifestyle," said DeBartolo. "I chose franchising because it provided an opportunity to buy into an existing business model that had a proven track record with an excellent support system."

"What I love most about the window treatment business is the ability to meet with friends and neighbors to assist them in achieving their vision to elevate the look of their home. Gotcha Covered gives me an avenue to do that. I'm proud to be part of a quality recognized brand associated with exceptional customer service and a superb reputation."

Adding 40 new franchise locations in 2022, Gotcha Covered currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/bentonville/.

About Gotcha Covered

Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer's specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

hripley@ripleypr.com

SOURCE Gotcha Covered
CAIRO, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At the UNESCO-Huawei International Forum on Digital Platforms and Competencies for Teachers yesterday, Egypt's Ministry of Education officially launched the National Distance Learning Centre for the Continuous Professional Development of Educators.

The learning center was developed as part of the UNESCO-Huawei Technology-enabled Open Schools for All project, which is running in Egypt, Ghana, and Ethiopia from 2020 to 2023.

October 25, 2023, at the UNESCO-Huawei International Forum on Digital Platforms and Competencies for Teachers, Egypts Ministry of Education officially launched the National Distance Learning Centre for the Continuous Professional Development of Educators.

At the beginning of his speech, Dr. Reda Hegazy, Minister of Education and Technical Education, expressed his delight at attending the forum, extending his thanks and appreciation to UNESCO and Huawei for their support and for choosing Egypt to be a partner in the Open Schools Project.

He also praised the accomplishments made by the Open Schools project in cooperation with the Professional Academy for Teachers and the UNESCO Office in Cairo stating, "The Open Schools program has made notable achievements in the education sector in Egypt in terms of capacity building and preparing enrichment training courses for teachers, various digital platforms, and the establishment of the National Center for Distance Education, to improve the skills of educators in Egypt."

Technology-enabled Open Schools for All (TeOSS)

Alongside the launch of the learning center, the forum explored best practices in relation to the TeOSS project. Implemented in partnership with the ministries of education in Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ghana, the UNESCO-Huawei TeOSS project is piloting and testing digital education platforms in the three African nations. It is also providing training in digital skills for teachers and students, developing policy frameworks for digital education, and evaluating the project's efficacy with a view to scaling out TeOSS to other nations in Africa.

In Egypt, for example, 300 teachers have received trained in digital skills through the project, and the new learning center will boost distance learning and digital literacy capabilities for 950,000 K-12 educators in underserved communities.

In his speech, Sobhi Tawil, Director of the Future of Learning and Innovation Team at UNESCO, welcomed the attendees at this forum, praising the cooperation with the Ministry of Education in Egypt and its role in supporting future horizons.

He added that the forum comes within Huawei's project to enable open schools and raise digital learning competencies since 2020, which has contributed to raising the quality of education, ensuring access and continuity of education in Egypt, Ethiopia and Ghana and that Egypt was one of the first countries to implement the digital learning initiative, noting that the opening of the National Center for Distance Education in Egypt represents a big step in digital transformation.

The TeOSS project is designed to blend online and offline learning to maximize education outcomes, and also to ensure learning continuity in both normal and crisis conditions. According to UNICEF, for example, more than 616 million students were still affected by full or partial school closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic as late as January 2022.

Building digital education capabilities at a national level can help mitigate disruption to learning if unforeseen events occur.

Huawei's involvement in the project falls under its long-term digital inclusion and sustainability initiative TECH4ALL. The education domain of TECH4ALL is committed to developing tech-driven solutions that can help achieve UN Sustainable Development Goal 4: ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

"Education matters for all, and our strategy is to improve digital skills for the educators in order to address the challenge in Egypt. Let's work together to build a more inclusive and sustainable digital world." said Joyce Liu, Director, TECH4ALL Digital Inclusion Program Office for Huawei.

Alongside the launch of the learning center and the TeOSS project, the two-day forum explored best practices for building digital platforms and educator capabilities, resource-sharing internationally, and expanding collaboration in digital education. The forum was attended by government ministers and senior representatives from Egypt, Ethiopia, and Ghana; representatives from UNESCO and Huawei; TeOSS partners; and international experts.

About TECH4ALL

TECH4ALL is Huawei's long-term digital inclusion initiative and action plan. Enabled by innovative technologies and partnerships, TECH4ALL is designed to help promote inclusion and sustainability in the digital world.

For more information, please visit Huawei TECH4ALL website at https://www.huawei.com/en/tech4all

Follow us on Twitter at

https://twitter.com/HUAWEI_TECH4ALL

SOURCE Huawei
CHANGSHA, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tracing the distant "childhood" of the Chinese people with the history of images. Recently, the third season of the documentary "China", which is being broadcast on Hunan TV, Hunan Broadcasting System and Mango TV, has become a popular TV program for young Chinese with its grand and subtle narrative, innovation and sophisticated production.

A Documentary Telling Chinese Stories in Chinese Style

As the final work of the documentary series "China", the 3rd season of "China" starts from the source to explore the origin of Chinese civilization and decode the genes of cultural inheritance. From the myths and legends of PanGu founding of the world and the creation of man by NvWa, to the archaeological historical materials such as Erlitou civilization and bronze ware, from the prehistoric society full of stars to the dynasties Xia, Shang and Zhou in the widearea, with the gestation and development of etiquette as the main line, the unique place of Chinese civilization is elucidated, so that the world can perceive what is China. After the documentary was broadcast, it aroused enthusiastic reactions among the audience. Related topics frequently appeared in hot searches on social platforms, spreading exposure up to 3 billion times, and won the first place in the fusion communication index.

In order to better express the lives of the forefather, the leading creative team has conducted an avant-garde exploration of "ideas + art + technology". On the basis of continuing "Chinese-style aesthetics", "China" has adopted the new documentary image presentation method of "painting + CG" in the third season. With the support of a large number of researchable graphic materials, those characters and events that existed in ancient legends were depicted with a brush. Through the blessing of CG technology, nearly a thousand artistic paintings were in motion, giving all elements a flexible expression and presenting an imaginary space about ancient civilization.

In order to ensure the production of the content, the documentary team has invited well-known historical and archaeological experts such as Wang Zijin, Xu Hong, Sha Wutian, and Ruan Mingtao to strictly control relevant historical materials, facts, and historical views throughout the process, invited the moderators Zhou Tao and He Jiong to participate in the dubbing, and selected outstanding young artists as well as painters in China to create a high-quality historical documentary with awe. The documentary has received unanimous praise from historians and professional institutions such as Xu Zhuoyun, Yi Zhongtian, the Chinese Academy of History, the Liangzhu Museum, the Xi'an Museum, and the Erlitou Site Museum of the Xia Capital. In the short video platform Douyin where young Chinese gathered, many bloggers spontaneously produced their videos of second creation for "China", and the popularity remained high. The single video posted by the blogger "Xiaoxiang Lide" was played more than 10 million times.

It is reported that the third season of "China" will officially celebrate its ending in early December.

Contact: Yu Pixun

Tel: 0086-731-84801218

Email: yupixun@hunantv.com

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZYqvV_mz5o

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258709/Hunan_tv_Logo.jpg

SOURCE Hunan TV
CINCINNATI, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Irene Day's vision of strengthening Ohio communities by making top-quality financial programming broadly accessible around the state is being realized this month as the NFEC launches its state branch, the Ohio Financial Educators Council. In conjunction with the launch, select nonprofits, schools, and community organizations now may receive complimentary financial education programming.

The focus of the Ohio Financial Educators Council is to employ the NFEC's nationwide mission to help Ohio residents meet their unique financial challenges. The support and materials are offered at no charge to Ohio-based groups that are interested in bringing financial education designed for all ages of learners to have a positive effect on local communities.

Irene Day's professional and personal experiences are characterized by her talent for bringing a wide variety of individuals and organizations together to work toward a common goal: improving people's lives through financial wellness. As President and CEO of Hannah Financial, she has distinguished herself for her passion, community service, and the ethical, professional conduct of her business endeavors. https://www.financialeducatorscouncil.org/community-champion-irene-day/

The availability of financial wellness resources will help the many Ohioans who face economic challenges. According to Ohio financial statistics, many state residents face issues such as poverty, food insecurity, and housing insecurity.

Irene Day comments as follows: "I am dedicated to giving real-life financial literacy solutions to individuals and organizations. Over the past 5 years, I have grown to feel truly passionate about educating people so they don't fall into the same financial hardships I experienced early in life  all from just not understanding how money worked."

Besides sponsoring this initiative, Irene Day also is an active participant helping guide the direction of the Ohio Chapter's Advisory Board, a body formed to help move the Council and the financial wellness movement forward. Board members undertake various roles to support the leadership team to inspire positive social change.

In the short-term, the Ohio Financial Educators Council has an objective to make a positive difference in terms of statewide financial literacy. From a longer-term perspective, the Council seeks to help Ohioans accomplish greater financial security.

The mission of the Ohio Chapter is founded on three pillars: 1) increase access to and develop sustainable financial education programming around Ohio; 2) attract support and build awareness about economic empowerment through financial education; and 3) create strong relationships to implement sustainable community financial wellness initiatives.

The Ohio Financial Educators Council is one branch of the National Financial Educators Council  a Certified B Corporation and IACET Accredited Provider with a focus on mobilizing a worldwide team of financial wellness advocates and champions, empowering them with materials and training to support communities and spread the message globally about improving financial well-being.

Media Contact:

Trevor Stoll

[email protected]

702.620.3059

SOURCE National Financial Educators Council
The company is recognized for its proven track record of supporting jewelry businesses and empowering growth

NEENAH, Wis., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jewelers Mutual Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, recently announced it has been named to Inc.'s Power Partner Awards list, which recognizes the best business-to-business providers for small businesses. The company earned the achievement for its dedication to providing innovative products and services that extend beyond insurance to protect and grow jewelry businesses, solidifying its position as the trusted advisor and solution provider for the industry.

Inc. Power Partner logo

Over the past several years, Jewelers Mutual has launched numerous technology advancements for jewelry businesses and jewelry consumers that are transforming the industry and customer experiences. Its digital Marketplace exemplifies the company's forward-thinking culture, empowering jewelers to thrive. Currently, over 13,000 registered users can access a multitude of offerings to revolutionize their jewelry businesses. In addition, Jewelers Mutual's insurtech solutions, like the LUX Digital Vault mobile app, elevate the experience at the retail counter. Customers download the app to store, view and manage their jewelry, collections and documentation and insure their piecesall from their phone.

"Clearly, Jewelers Mutual Group has gone to extraordinary lengths to drive its clients' businesses as it does its own," said Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. Business Media, in a congratulatory letter.



With thousands of companies applying for recognition, the selection process for the Power Partner Awards is highly competitive and based on various criteria, including customer feedback on multiple aspects, such as:

Likelihood to Recommend: Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry.

Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry. Value Rating: Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence.

Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence. Competitive Advantage: Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers.

Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers. Reasons for Choosing: Customers shared insights into what sets Jewelers Mutual's products and services apart and why they prefer the company's offerings over other alternatives.

"This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering tailored solutions that empower jewelry businesses to succeed," said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at Jewelers Mutual. "Our team's hard work, commitment and focus on customer satisfaction have truly paid off. We are deeply grateful to our customers for their trust and confidence in us. The best is yet to come."

The view the complete list, go to https://www.inc.com/power-partner-awards/2023.

ABOUT JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual's powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers' strong financial position is reflected in their 36 consecutive "A+ Superior" ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2022. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.

ABOUT INC. BUSINESS MEDIA

The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community they need to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

SOURCE Jewelers Mutual Group
HERNDON, Va., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Constellis, a leading provider of essential risk management and mission support services to government and commercial customers worldwide, announced today that Jon Paul "JP" Kiwus has joined the Company as Program Manager of the National Security Division.

"We are very excited to welcome JP to Constellis," said Terry Ryan, Chief Executive Officer of Constellis. "His vast experience in National Security and force protection combined with his program management experience and extensive knowledge in advanced technology will assist the company as we address the increasing demand to provide high-quality security by integrating leading-edge security solutions for our customers."

Mr. Kiwus joined the company after a 30-year career with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Security and Operations, specializing in security and force protection services for special projects, compartmented programs, and overseas operations. Mr. Kiwus retired from the CIA in 2020 with extensive experience developing, managing, and supporting facilities in remote and hostile areas while supporting critical executive-branch-directed missions.

About Constellis

Constellis provides end-to-end risk management and comprehensive security solutions to safeguard people and infrastructure. Operating globally and based in the Washington D.C. area, our employees bring unparalleled dedication and passion for creating a safer world while upholding the highest standards of compliance, quality, and integrity. Constellis' solutions include a range of services, including background investigations, K-9, technical services, UAV and counter UAV services, advanced training, logistics and life support, fleet maintenance, construction, contingency operations, emergency response, and tailored unique capabilities to support a wide variety of mission requirements. At Constellis, our number one priority is securing customers' success.

SOURCE Constellis
Don't be fooled, the cybercriminals offering an unexpected treat are out to trick you this Halloween season.

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Halloween season is here, which means carving pumpkins, trick or treating, planning costumes, sneaking the kids' candy and scary movies, of course. However, one of the scariest threats facing individuals and businesses alike this spooky season is phishing scams. Much like children in costumes coming to the door to ask for candy on Halloween, cybercriminals disguise themselves to trick people into providing information such as usernames and passwords, Social Security numbers and more. Keeper Security , the leading provider of zero-trust and zero-knowledge cybersecurity software protecting passwords, passkeys, privileged access, secrets and remote connections, is sharing its top tricks to keep cybercriminals from haunting you down.

It's important to remain vigilant and learn the telltale signs of phishing attacks in order to prevent falling victim to them. Cyber witches often use the following ingredients in their phishing potions:

#1 Urgent language: Phishing attempts will often contain language that displays a sense of urgency. This is because the cybercriminal wants the targeted victim to act as quickly as possible so they don't second-guess themselves when sending their personal information.

#2: Discrepancies in email addresses and domain names: Another indicator is if an email claiming to be from a boss, coworker or company, has an email address and domain name that doesn't match who they claim to be. The email or web address may have a subtle difference, such as an o replaced with a 0 or .com replaced with .net.

#3 Requests for personal information: Sudden requests for personal information are also a common phishing attempt indicator. If you receive an email, text message or phone call from an unknown number claiming to be a company or someone you know, think twice before giving out your personal information especially if you weren't the one who initiated the conversation.

#4 Misspellings and grammatical errors: Another common sign of a phishing attempt is when the message includes misspellings and grammatical errors. Before companies send out emails to customers, they go through multiple rounds of reviews to ensure there are no errors. If you receive an email claiming to be a company or individual and you notice errors, it's best to not click on anything in the email because it could be a phishing attempt.

Unfortunately, bad actors enjoy cybercrime as much as your children enjoy costumes, but there are a few not-so-spooky measures you can take to protect your accounts, financial data, sensitive documents and identity secure from haunted hackers this holiday season.

#1 Think before you click: If you receive unsolicited links and attachments through email, text message or other messaging platforms, do not click on them. These links and attachments may contain malware that can steal your sensitive information or spy on you. If you're not sure if a link is safe, hover your mouse over it to see the full website address or use a safety checker like Google Transparency Report.

#2 Use a password manager: A password manager helps you create, manage and securely store your passwords, but also provides a built-in warning about phishing sites. A password manager saves the web address with your login, so if your information does not autofill, that means you're not on the authentic website.

#3 Use an email scanner: An email scanner is a tool that scans email attachments for potential malware. Investing in an email scanner will also help protect you from email phishing attempts by identifying dangerous attachments.

#4 Enable multi-factor authentication on your accounts: Your accounts should not only be protected with strong passwords, but also have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) enabled whenever possible. MFA requires that the user provide one or more forms of authentication in addition to their username and password. Even if you did fall for a phishing attempt and reveal the login credentials to an account, having MFA enabled would prevent a cybercriminal from being able to access it.

#5 Reach out to the company or individual another way: Whenever you receive an email, text message or phone call that makes you question whether or not it's legitimate, contact the individual or company directly through another method of communication. If they say the message isn't from them, then you just avoided becoming a phishing victim.

You don't need a superhero costume to fight off scary cyberattacks this Halloween. Anyone can be a cyber hero by staying vigilant and following Keeper's best practices, so knock the cobwebs off this season and brush up on your cybersecurity knowledge with the Keeper Security Blog .

About Keeper Security

Keeper Security is transforming the way people and organizations around the world secure their passwords, secrets and confidential information. Keeper's easy-to-use cybersecurity platform is built on a foundation of zero-trust and zero-knowledge security to protect every user on every device. Our solution deploys in minutes and seamlessly integrates with any tech stack to prevent breaches, reduce help desk costs and ensure compliance. Trusted by millions of individuals and thousands of organizations globally, Keeper is the leader for best-in-class password management, secrets management, privileged access, secure remote access and encrypted messaging. Protect what matters at KeeperSecurity.com .

Media Contact

Christian Morley

[email protected]

SOURCE Keeper Security
A personal injury attorney can help maximize compensation for injury claims says Crain Brogdon

DALLAS, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- When pursuing a personal injury claim in Texas, it's important to understand the factors that can impact the compensation you receive.

Here are three tips to maximize your personal injury claim compensation:

Gather and Preserve Evidence: Document the Scene: Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, including any hazards, damages, or relevant details.

Collect Witness Statements: Obtain contact information from witnesses and request their statements regarding the incident.

Preserve Medical Records: Keep records of all medical treatments, prescriptions, and related expenses. These documents will support your claim for medical expenses and show the extent of your injuries. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Get Prompt Medical Evaluation: Seek medical attention immediately after the accident, even if your injuries seem minor. Delayed medical treatment can undermine your claim by suggesting that your injuries were not severe.

Follow Doctor's Orders: Adhere to your healthcare provider's instructions regarding treatments, follow-up appointments, and any necessary rehabilitative therapies. Consistent medical care supports your claim for damages. Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney: Legal Guidance and Advocacy: Hire a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who specializes in Texas law. They will navigate the legal complexities, protect your rights, and advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve.

law. They will navigate the legal complexities, protect your rights, and advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve. Thorough Case Evaluation: An attorney will assess the strengths and weaknesses of your claim, identify liable parties, and determine the potential value of your case.

Skillful Negotiation and Litigation: Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and, if necessary, take your case to court. Their expertise in negotiation and litigation can significantly impact the outcome of your claim.

Each personal injury case is unique, and seeking personalized legal advice is crucial to maximize your compensation. "At Crain Brogdon, we are committed to doing whatever it takes to secure full repayment for your damages," says Attorney Rob Crain.

About Crain Brogdon Law

Renowned attorney Robert D. Crain, recognized by U.S. News' Best Lawyers in America, is highly regarded nationwide for personal injury cases. Rob's impressive academic background includes graduating with honors from the University of Texas and obtaining his Juris Doctorate from the University of Texas School of Law. After gaining valuable insights from defending personal injury cases, he established Crain Brogdon, LLP, assembling a top-tier team of catastrophic injury experts. Contact Crain Brogdon at (214) 522-9404.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

SOURCE Crain Brogdon, LLP
SHENYANG, China, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- A high-level economic and trade delegation representing Liaoning Province traveled Germany, Saudi Arabia and Russia in the middle of October. The aim is to strengthen interaction and collaboration with these countries through friendly visits, economic and trade exchanges, industrial promotions and other approaches. The delegates also visited key enterprises and regions to deepen cooperation. The arrival of the delegates garnered extensive attention and positive responses in the respective locations.

Headed by main leaders of Liaoning Province, the delegation first visited Germany between the 11th and the 13th, and made special visits to BMW Group and Siemens. Liaoning Province's city of Shenyang has emerged as BMW Group's largest production base in the world and one of the automaker's foremost new energy vehicle centers, while the Siemens set up an Empowerment Center in the Shenfu Reform and Innovation Demonstration Zone of the province several years ago. Liaoning hopes to take the fruitful cooperative relationships with German enterprises to the next level while promoting mutual benefits, according to the Information Office of the People's Government of Liaoning Province.

During the trip to Saudi Arabia between the 14th and the 15th, the delegation visited the headquarters of Saudi Aramco. March earlier this year, construction of the Huajin-Aramco Fine Chemical and Raw Materials Project, to be built with an investment of 83.7 billion yuan, successfully broke ground in the city of Panjin in Liaoning Province. This is a full-spectrum strategic cooperation project between China and Saudi Arabia as jointly witnessed and promoted by the leaders of the two nations. Saudi Aramco is the world's biggest petroleum producer, and the Huajin-Aramco project is the Saudi giant's biggest investment in China. The multi-billion yuan fine chemical production base in Liaoning symbolizing continual in-depth cooperation between the two sides and is noted for its immense potentials.

Lastly, the delegates spent the period from the 16th to the 19th in Russia, including meetings with Chairperson of the Federation Council of Russia and Deputy Minister for Far East and Arctic Development, and visited Primorsky Krai, which has long developed frequent interchanges with Liaoning. Aiming to combine Liaoning's industrial advantages in fields such as equipment manufacturing, rail transportation and electronic information with Primorsky Krai's strengths in ports and mining, the two sides endeavored to create more high-quality industrial cooperation projects. The delegation also attended the commencement ceremony for the new non-stop flight between two friendship cities, namely Dalian of Liaoning Province and Vladivostok of Primorsky Krai.

As one of China's major industrial provinces, Liaoning is speeding up the transformations and upgrades of its traditional industries, and at present socio-economic development across the province is advancing excellently. Liaoning Province hopes to continue deepening and strengthening international cooperation to promote more practical achievements, with the goal of promoting comprehensive revitalization of the region.

SOURCE Information Office of the People's Government of Liaoning Province
Advisor moves from Independent Financial Group to Cetera Wealth Management Group

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera Financial Group (Cetera), the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub, announced that Mackenzie Martin** has joined Cetera Advisor Networks via Cetera Wealth Management Group. Within Cetera Wealth Management Group, Martin will join North Star Resource Group with the leadership of Ed Deutschlander. Martin is a financial professional previously affiliated with Independent Financial Group. She provides comprehensive financial planning and investment advice to clients and had an AUA of about $40 million in assets under administration* as of May 31, 2023.

"We welcome Mackenzie to our community of talented advisors at Cetera Wealth Management Group," said Kjirsten Zellmer, president of Cetera Wealth Management Group. "I look forward to seeing how Mackenzie leverages our unique combination of independence and relationships at Cetera's level, in partnership with North Star Resource Group to bring an even better quality of life to her clients. We're a group of advisors who exemplify a growth mindset, and I feel confident Mackenzie will thrive in this environment."

Martin has 15 years of experience in the industry and holds both the Series 7 and Series 65 registrations. She offers a wide range of services including retirement preparation, college funding options, insurance needs and more. Martin grew up in Seattle, Wash., and later moved to Oregon to attend Oregon State University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree.

Cetera Wealth Management Group was formed after Cetera acquired the retail wealth business of Securian Financial Group, Inc. in August 2023. More than 91% of the invited Securian professionals, representing more than $50 billion in assets, made the choice to join Cetera and to form Cetera Wealth Management Group, which is in line with Cetera's transition projections. The transaction is the largest in Cetera's history.

Click here for more information about Cetera Advisor Networks, click here for more about Cetera Wealth Management Group and click here for more information about North Star Resource Group.

About Cetera Financial Group

Cetera Financial Group (Cetera) is the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub where financial advisors and institutions optimize their control and value creation. Breaking away from a commoditized and homogenous IBD model, Cetera offers financial professionals and institutions the latest solutions, support, and services to grow, scale, or transition with a merger, sale, investment, or succession plan. Cetera proudly serves independent financial advisors, tax professionals, licensed administrators, large enterprises, as well as institutions, such as banks and credit unions, providing an established and repeatable blueprint for scalable growth.

Home to more than 9,000 financial professionals and their teams, Cetera oversees approximately $374 billion in assets under administration and $145 billion in assets under management, as of September 25, 2023. In a recent advisor satisfaction survey of more than 21,000 reviews, Cetera's Voice of Customer (VoC) program vigorously measures advisor experience and satisfaction 24/7. Currently, it's ranked 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Visit www.cetera.com, and follow Cetera on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

"Cetera Financial Group" refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms are FINRA/SIPC members. Located at: 655 W. Broadway, 11th Floor, San Diego, CA 92101.

Individuals affiliated with Cetera firms are either Registered Representatives who offer only brokerage services and receive transaction-based compensation (commissions), Investment Adviser Representatives who offer only investment advisory services and receive fees based on assets, or both Registered Representatives and Investment Adviser Representatives, who can offer both types of services.

*Value approximated based on asset holding details provided to Cetera.

**Registered Representative offering securities through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

SOURCE Cetera Financial Group
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has arrived in New York to participate in the UN General Assembly, Trend reports.

The aim is to continue dialogue on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and assess the risks of its further escalation to the level of a regional crisis.

He also emphasized his intention to express the official position of the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding current developments in the Middle East region at the UN General Assembly.
-- Findings from two health economics analyses of Acthar Gel provide further insight into its cost-effectiveness as a treatment option for advanced symptomatic sarcoidosis,1 and its impact on clinical, economic, and real-world outcomes in patients with nephrotic syndrome2 --

DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Mallinckrodt plc (OTCMKTS: MNKTQ), a global specialty pharmaceutical company, recently shared findings from Mallinckrodt's latest health economics outcomes research on Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection) for patients with advanced symptomatic sarcoidosis and nephrotic syndrome (NS)1,2 at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) Nexus 2023 in Orlando, FL October 16-19, 2023.

A full list of accepted abstracts presented at AMCP Nexus 2023 can be found here.

Acthar is a naturally sourced complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone analogs and other pituitary peptides. Acthar Gel is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of several autoimmune disorders and medical conditions known to cause inflammation.3

Please see indications and Important Safety Information below.

In a poster (D20) titled "Cost-Effectiveness of Acthar Gel versus Standard of Care for the Treatment of Advanced Symptomatic Sarcoidosis," results were presented from a cost-effectiveness analysis of Acthar Gel and the standard of care (SoC) treatments over two and three years in patients with advanced symptomatic sarcoidosis in the U.S.1 In this analysis, a probabilistic cohort-level state-transition approach was used. Patients were monitored at the end of a three-month cycle for a partial or complete response. Clinical parameters and health utility data were sourced from the PULSAR trial (NCT03320070) and healthcare utilization, costs, and disutilities were sourced from the published literature.1

From the payer perspective  including treatment and direct medical costs  the findings of this analysis showed that Acthar Gel versus SoC resulted in an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of $134,796 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and $39,179 per QALY over two and three years, respectively.

per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and per QALY over two and three years, respectively. From a societal perspective  including treatment, direct medical and indirect (caregiving, productivity loss, work-related training) costs  Acthar versus SoC resulted in an ICER of $117,622 per QALY over two years and $21,967 per QALY over three years.

Model inputs used in the analysis were derived or extrapolated from the PULSAR clinical trial or published literature, which may not reflect real-world experience or may result in under- or over-estimation of results. The simplified care paradigm used for the model may not capture the complexity of sarcoidosis. Clinical response was based on composite sarcoidosis treatment scores, which might result in variation in cost-effectiveness estimates.

The full data manuscript from this study was published in ClinicoEconomics and Outcomes Research on October 17, 2023.

Additionally, a poster (N1) titled "Nephrotic Syndrome: Patient Characteristics, Treatment Patterns, and Related Outcomes After Treatment with Acthar Gel or Comparable Standard of Care in a Large Administrative Claims Database" detailed results from a retrospective, observational cohort study characterizing patients with NS who initiated Acthar or other therapies used after corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors.2 In this study, treatment for NS with Acthar for proteinuria and other treatments (azathioprine, chlorambucil, cyclophosphamide, mycophenolate mofetil, or rituximab) was analyzed via a large commercial claims database (Symphony Health). Patients had a confirmed diagnosis for NS, were 18 years of age or older, and had 12 months of continuous enrollment pre- and post-index.2

In this analysis, after treatment with Acthar Gel, there was a significant reduction in the proportion of patients (n=315) taking corticosteroids (66%; n=209 vs. 51%; n=162, p<0.001), patients on extended use (60 days) of corticosteroids (37%; n=117 to 25%; n=80, p<0.001), and the average daily patient dose of corticosteroids (32.1  21.3 to 21.7  21.1, p=0.001) compared to baseline.

The Acthar Gel cohort had an increase in patients on dialysis (6%; n=20 to 14%; n=45, p<0.001), but no change was reported in renal transplants (10%; n=30 to 10%; n=32, p=0.774) or transplant complications (6%; n=18 to 6%; n=19, p=1.000). The comparator cohort of patients taking other therapies (n=6,812) had fewer patients on dialysis (16%; n=1,105 to 12%; n=823, p<0.001), but an increase in renal transplants (19%; n=1,315 to 22%; n=1,475, p<0.001) and transplant complications (8%; n=547 to 10%; n=681, p<0.001).

"We are pleased to have shared our latest health economics research on Acthar Gel. These data further our understanding of treatment cost-effectiveness, clinical impact, and real-world outcomes for patients with conditions like symptomatic sarcoidosis and nephrotic syndrome,"1,2 said George Wan, Ph.D., M.P.H., Vice President, Evidence Generation and Data Sciences, Mallinckrodt. "Acthar has a robust history of clinical evidence and experience, and we are committed to providing the medical community with the most up to date research to support its availability, use, and potential to improve outcomes for autoimmune and chronic inflammatory conditions across a range of FDA-approved indications."

Data collected in retrospective analyses and health economics models may have errors or omissions. Outcomes may be influenced by therapies not evaluated in the study and the clinical/health economics outcomes may not be solely attributable to Acthar.

These studies were funded by Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals.

ABOUT PROTEINURIA IN NEPHROTIC SYNDROME (NS)

NS is a collection of symptoms that occur when the blood vessels in the kidney begin to leak excess protein in the urine, a condition called proteinuria.4 A variety of diseases and underlying disorders damage the kidneys and cause proteinuria in people with NS.4 These etiologies can include glomerular diseases such as: idiopathic membranous nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, minimal change disease, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, lupus nephritis, and IgA nephropathy.4,5,6,7,8,9 In these and other related disorders, the glomeruli, or small blood vessels that work as the kidney's filtering system, are damaged.4

Proteinuria is one of the most important adverse prognostic factors for progression to end stage renal failure in patients with glomerular disease. One of the goals of treating NS includes reducing or eliminating proteinuria.10

ABOUT SYMPTOMATIC SARCOIDOSIS

Sarcoidosis is a challenging and rare multisystem disease.11 In some cases, the symptoms may come and go throughout a lifetime.11 This is referred to as symptomatic sarcoidosis.11 In people with sarcoidosis, the immune system overreacts, forming clumps of cells called granulomas that result in inflammation to the body's tissues.12 The disease can impact any organ, but it most often impacts the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, and skin.13 Nearly 90 percent of people with sarcoidosis will suffer lung problems. Concomitant involvement of organs outside of the lungs is common, occurring in more than half of all sarcoidosis cases, according to one study.14

INDICATIONS

Acthar Gel is indicated for:

Inducing a diuresis or a remission of proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that due to lupus erythematosus

Monotherapy for the treatment of infantile spasms in infants and children under 2 years of age

Treatment of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis in adults. Controlled clinical trials have shown Acthar to be effective in speeding the resolution of acute exacerbations of multiple sclerosis. However, there is no evidence that it affects the ultimate outcome or natural history of the disease

Severe acute and chronic allergic and inflammatory processes involving the eye and its adnexa such as: keratitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, diffuse posterior uveitis and choroiditis, optic neuritis, chorioretinitis, anterior segment inflammation

Symptomatic sarcoidosis

Treatment during an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of systemic lupus erythematosus

Treatment during an exacerbation or as maintenance therapy in selected cases of dermatomyositis (polymyositis)

Adjunctive therapy for short-term administration (to tide the patient over an acute episode or exacerbation) in: psoriatic arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, including juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (selected cases may require low-dose maintenance therapy); ankylosing spondylitis

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Contraindications

Acthar is contraindicated:

For intravenous administration

In infants under 2 years of age who have suspected congenital infections

With concomitant administration of live or live attenuated vaccines in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of Acthar

In patients with scleroderma, osteoporosis, systemic fungal infections, ocular herpes simplex, recent surgery, history of the presence of a peptic ulcer, congestive heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, primary adrenocortical insufficiency, adrenocortical hyperfunction, or sensitivity to proteins of porcine origin

Warnings and Precautions

The adverse effects of Acthar are related primarily to its steroidogenic effects

Acthar may increase susceptibility to new infection or reactivation of latent infections

Suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may occur following prolonged therapy with the potential for adrenal insufficiency after withdrawal of the medication. Adrenal insufficiency may be minimized by tapering of the dose when discontinuing treatment. During recovery of the adrenal gland patients should be protected from the stress (e.g., trauma or surgery) by the use of corticosteroids. Monitor patients for effects of HPA axis suppression after stopping treatment

Cushing's syndrome may occur during therapy but generally resolves after therapy is stopped. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms

Acthar can cause elevation of blood pressure, salt and water retention, and hypokalemia. Monitor blood pressure and sodium and potassium levels

Acthar often acts by masking symptoms of other diseases/disorders. Monitor patients carefully during and for a period following discontinuation of therapy

Acthar can cause gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and gastric ulcer. There is also an increased risk for perforation in patients with certain GI disorders. Monitor for signs of perforation and bleeding

Acthar may be associated with central nervous system effects ranging from euphoria, insomnia, irritability, mood swings, personality changes, and severe depression to psychosis. Existing conditions may be aggravated

Patients with comorbid disease may have that disease worsened. Caution should be used when prescribing Acthar in patients with diabetes and myasthenia gravis

Prolonged use of Acthar may produce cataracts, glaucoma, and secondary ocular infections. Monitor for signs and symptoms

Acthar is immunogenic and prolonged administration of Acthar may increase the risk of hypersensitivity reactions. Cases of anaphylaxis have been reported in the postmarketing setting. Neutralizing antibodies with chronic administration may lead to loss of endogenous ACTH and Acthar activity

There may be an enhanced effect in patients with hypothyroidism and in those with cirrhosis of the liver

Long-term use may have negative effects on growth and physical development in children. Monitor pediatric patients

Decrease in bone density may occur. Bone density should be monitored in patients on long-term therapy

Adverse Reactions

Commonly reported postmarketing adverse reactions for Acthar include injection site reaction, asthenic conditions (including fatigue, malaise, asthenia, and lethargy), fluid retention (including peripheral swelling), insomnia, headache, and blood glucose increased

The most common adverse reactions for the treatment of infantile spasms (IS) are increased risk of infections, convulsions, hypertension, irritability, and pyrexia. Some patients with IS progress to other forms of seizures; IS sometimes masks theses seizures, which may become visible once the clinical spasms from IS resolve

Pregnancy

Acthar may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman

Please see full Prescribing Information for additional Important Safety Information.

ABOUT MALLINCKRODT

Mallinckrodt is a global business consisting of multiple wholly owned subsidiaries that develop, manufacture, market and distribute specialty pharmaceutical products and therapies. The company's Specialty Brands reportable segments areas of focus include autoimmune and rare diseases in specialty areas like neurology, rheumatology, hepatology, nephrology, pulmonology, ophthalmology, and oncology; immunotherapy and neonatal respiratory critical care therapies; analgesics; cultured skin substitutes and gastrointestinal products. Its Specialty Generics reportable segment includes specialty generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients. To learn more about Mallinckrodt, visit www.mallinckrodt.com.

Mallinckrodt uses its website as a channel of distribution of important company information, such as press releases, investor presentations and other financial information. It also uses its website to expedite public access to time-critical information regarding the company in advance of or in lieu of distributing a press release or a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) disclosing the same information. Therefore, investors should look to the Investor Relations page of the website for important and time-critical information. Visitors to the website can also register to receive automatic e-mail and other notifications alerting them when new information is made available on the Investor Relations page of the website.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS RELATED TO FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains forward-looking statements, including with regard to Acthar Gel, its potential to improve health and treatment outcomes, and its potential impact on patients. The statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements: the impact of Mallinckrodt's pending Chapter 11 cases; satisfaction of, and compliance with, regulatory and other requirements; actions of regulatory bodies and other governmental authorities; changes in laws and regulations; issues with product quality, manufacturing or supply, or patient safety issues or adverse side effects or adverse reactions associated with Acthar; and other risks identified and described in more detail in the "Risk Factors" section of Mallinckrodt's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC, all of which are available on its website. The forward-looking statements made herein speak only as of the date hereof and Mallinckrodt does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events and developments or otherwise, except as required by law.

CONTACT

Media Inquiries

Green Room Communications

954-816-6003

[email protected]

Investor Relations

Daniel J. Speciale

Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Specialty Generics

314-654-3638

[email protected]

Derek Belz

Vice President, Investor Relations

314-654-3950

[email protected]

Mallinckrodt, the "M" brand mark and the Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals logo are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company. Other brands are trademarks of a Mallinckrodt company or their respective owners.

2023 Mallinckrodt. US-2300804 10/23

References

1 Bindra J, et al. Cost-Effectiveness of Acthar Gel for the Treatment of Advanced Symptomatic Sarcoidosis. Poster to be presented at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) 2023 Nexus. October 2023.

2 Hayes K, et al. Nephrotic Syndrome: Patient Characteristics, Treatment Patterns, and Related Outcomes after treatment with Acthar Gel or comparable standard of care in a large administrative claims database. Encore Poster to be presented at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) 2023 Nexus. October 2023.

3 Acthar Gel (repository corticotropin injection) [prescribing information]. Mallinckrodt ARD LLC.

4 National Institute of Health. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Nephrotic Syndrome in Adults. 2020. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/nephrotic-syndrome-adults. Accessed October 2023.

5 NephCure Kidney International. Focal Segmentation Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Available at https://nephcure.org/livingwithkidneydisease/ns-and-other-glomerular-diseases/understanding-fsgs/. Accessed October 2023.

6 NephCure Kidney International. Nephrotic Syndrome. Available at https://nephcure.org/livingwithkidneydisease/understanding-glomerular-disease/understanding-nephrotic-syndrome/. Accessed October 2023.

7 NIDDK. IgA Nephropathy. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/iga-nephropathy/. Accessed October 2023.

8 Satpathy HK. IgA Nephropathy. In: Ferri FF, ed. Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2013. 1st ed. St Louis: Mosby; 2012; 570-571.

9 Meija-Vilet JM, Pankh SV. Overview of the Current Approach to Glomerular Disease Classification. In: H. Trachtman et al. (eds.), Glomerulonephritis: Spring Nature Switzerland 2019; Chapter 5; 60-82.

10 Troyanov et al. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2005;16(4):10611068.

11 Sarcoidosis. American College of Chest Physicians. Available at: http://chestnet.org/sarcoid. Accessed October 2023.

12 Sarcoidosis Overview. 2019. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseaes/11863-sarcoidosis-overview. Accessed October 2023.

13 Judson MA, Boan AD, Lackland DT. The Clinical Course of Sarcoidosis: Presentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment in a Large White and Black Cohort in the United States. Sarcoidosis Vasc Diffuse Lung Dis. 2012. 29(2);119-127.

14 Chopra I, et al. Repository Corticotropin Injection in Patients with Advanced Symptomatic Sarcoidosis: Retrospective Analysis of Medical Records. Ther Adv Res Dis. 2019(13);1-11. DOI: 10.1177/1753466619888127.

SOURCE Mallinckrodt plc
LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Medius, a leading provider of AP Automation and wider Spend Management solutions, today announces the appointment of Emma Brown as Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

Brown joins Medius at a pivotal moment in the company's growth. Medius has made significant acquisitions recently, including expense management software company Expensya in July 2023 and OnPay Solutions, a Jacksonville-based invoice payments provider, in March 2022. In August, the global fintech opened a new US headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida in a move that represents a larger commitment to the Jacksonville community, as it emerges as one of US's hottest spots for fintech growth.

Based in London, Brown will be responsible for guiding Medius through its ambitious plan to double turnover by 2025 and for the long-term financial health of the company as it executes on its mission to eliminate fraud and inefficiencies through autonomous, AI-driven AP and spend management. As a leader of digital transformation throughout her career, Brown will champion product development, representing the views of core Medius customers, as CFOs seek increased productivity and financial control.

Brown holds 14 years' of experience scaling high growth global technology and people-based businesses. She joins Medius from consumer intelligence accelerator platform Talkwalker, where she acted as the Group Chief Financial and Operating Officer and retains a board position. Prior to Talkwalker, Brown worked in the tech sector in both the UK and Australia, including at MedicalDirector, Smartways Logistics and Altium. She is a chartered accountant with a background in audit and advisory gained at EY, BDO and KPMG.

Brown holds an MBA from the University of Sydney where she was awarded a scholarship from the UN Women National Committee Australia, an organization which promotes gender equality in leadership and the economic empowerment of women. Brown received the scholarship, in recognition of her commitment to positive and inclusive social change, especially in her advocacy of parental leave and diversity policies.

Emma Brown, CFO, Medius, comments: "CFOs today are facing a number of challenges, including attracting and retaining top talent, managing cashflow and risk in a volatile economy, and staying ahead of the curve on emerging technologies, including AI. I see firsthand how Medius can solve these issues and my belief in the product is an important reason for joining the business. With the company's history of sustainable growth, I'm eager to deliver on its exciting ambitions as a strategic and entrepreneurial CFO."

Jim Lucier, CEO, Medius, comments: "We're proud to welcome Emma at a crucial juncture for the business. As we continue our efforts to double our revenue over the next two years, Emma's expertise as a transformational financial leader will help make this a reality."

For more information, please contact:

Francesca Cahill (EMEA) at Fight or Flight,

[email protected] / Medius@fightorflight.com

+44 330 133 0985

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/medius/i/emma-brown--cfo--medius,c3231245 Emma Brown, CFO, Medius

SOURCE Medius
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MG Properties, a leading real estate investment and management firm, recently acquired 4400 Syracuse Apartments, a newly built luxury midrise community located in one of Denver's most desirable, dynamic, and growing submarkets. This acquisition underscores MG Properties' commitment to providing top-tier living experiences and expanding its operational presence in the Denver market.

MG Properties Purchases 4400 Syracuse Apartments in Denver

This newly constructed 316-unit property offers modern finishes, functional floorplans, and best-in-class amenity spaces designed to enhance the lifestyle of its residents. Situated in the thriving Denver Tech Center/Southeast Business Corridor, 4400 Syracuse Apartments offers residents access to Colorado's largest employment hub which supports over 240,000 jobs. The property is strategically accessible to public transportation and major regional thoroughfares, including the adjacent I-25 and I-225 interstates.

"4400 Syracuse Apartments represents an exceptional investment opportunity, priced below its current replacement cost basis," said Jeff Gleiberman, President of MG Properties. "MG's long-term investment strategy allows us to continue to acquire high quality assets at an attractive basis, despite today's challenging capital markets environment."

The sellers, Morgan Group and LaSalle Investment Management, were represented by Jordan Robbins and Alex Possick with JLL Capital Markets. Financing for the transaction was provided by Freddie Mac and arranged by Charles Halladay, Rick Salinas, Brandon Smith, and Annie Rice with JLL Capital Markets.

To learn more visit: http://www.live4400syracuse.com

ABOUT MG PROPERTIES

MG Properties is a privately owned, fully integrated real estate company specializing in the investment, redevelopment, and management of multi-family assets. Headquartered in San Diego, California, MG was founded in 1992 by Mark Gleiberman with the mission to enrich communities. MG's current portfolio is comprised of over 28,000 rental homes in California, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, and Oregon, including 102 communities. For additional information, visit www.mgproperties.com.

SOURCE MG Properties
Geospatial expert brings more than 30 years of experience to leadership role within the firm's Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) vertical

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Baker International, a global leader in engineering, planning and consulting services, announced today that Joseph Bartorelli has joined the firm as Vice President, National Geospatial Business Development Director. In this leadership role within Michael Baker's Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) vertical, Mr. Bartorelli will work closely with Operations leaders and staff at the regional and office level to implement an enterprise approach to business development for the firm's innovative and sustainable geospatial services. He will be responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, developing and maintaining strategic growth and partnership plans, and driving revenue growth in Michael Baker's geospatial software and services offerings. Additionally, he will work across the organization to extend and expand the firm's strategy for delivering geospatial technology, differentiation and innovation.

"Michael Baker's geospatial services address the entire lifecycle of critical infrastructure projects and support everything from conceptual planning through surveys, design and construction, while leveraging Big Data to support operations and maintenance," said Dan Kieny, President, Consulting and Technology Solutions at Michael Baker International. "As we Reimagine Michael Baker, Joseph will play an integral role in attracting new clients and expanding our scope with existing partners that will benefit from our firm's innovative, technology-based solutions."

Mr. Bartorelli brings more than 30 years of experience in the geospatial industry to his new role, including business management, photogrammetric practice, digital mapping/remote sensing, ground/airborne-based LiDAR, airborne GPS/IMU technology, sUAS/Drone technology, textured mesh technology, enterprise asset management and geographic information systems (GIS). Prior to joining Michael Baker, Mr. Bartorelli most recently served as Director of Geospatial for Fuscoe Engineering, Inc. Earlier in his career, Mr. Bartorelli held positions with Psomas, Vertical Mapping Resources, Inc. and HJW Geospatial, Inc.

Mr. Bartorelli earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from the University of Nevada, Reno. He is an American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) Certified Photogrammetrist and GIS Certification Institution (GISCI) Certified GIS Professional.

About Michael Baker International

Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning five distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services, Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS) and Sustainable and Resilient Solutions (SRS). The firm's Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations  like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS).

The firm's 3,900 employees across more than 85 office locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years.

To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.

Contact: Julia Covelli

[email protected]

(866) 293-4609

SOURCE Michael Baker International
In assessments of companies committed to ESG best practices in the agricultural chain in the states of Para, Mato Grosso and Rondonia, the Company obtained 100% compliance in social and environmental assessments.

SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Minerva Foods, the leading beef exporter in South America and one of the largest companies in the production and sale of fresh meat and its derivatives in the region, has achieved 100% social and environmental compliance in the states of Para, Mato Grosso and Rondonia, in audits supervised by the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office, the main auditor of the Brazilian production chain. The Company received the highest possible score for the fifth consecutive year in the latest assessment cycle in Para.

The initiative focuses on analysing the legal, environmental and social aspects of cattle ranching. It requires protein-producing companies to verify that the properties they work with meet the socio-environmental criteria set out in the Amazon Cattle Supplier Monitoring Protocol.

The commitments made by Minerva Foods help prevent the sourcing of raw materials from areas affected by illegal deforestation, land grabbing and slave labour. In addition, these commitments help prevent the sourcing of raw materials from protected area, indigenous lands and lands owned by the descendants of freed slaves.

"This achievement highlights our commitment to the sustainable development of the agricultural chain and our continuous efforts to ensure that we are increasingly aligned with ESG best practices. In the last four audit cycles we have achieved excellent results in Para and we have now been recognized with the highest scores in two additional states in which we operate," states Tamara Lopes, Executive Manager of Sustainability at Minerva Foods.

An industry leader in supplier monitoring - Minerva Foods pioneers initiatives aimed at tackling illegal deforestation and climate change linked to land conversion in South America. In recent years, the Company has intensified its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, mitigate climate change and promote the production of low carbon beef.

In Brazil (Amazon, Cerrado, Pantanal, Caatinga and Atlantic Forest), Paraguay and Colombia, the Company has pioneered the use of geographical information systems in all the biomes in which it operates, monitoring 100% of its direct suppliers. Progress is also being achieved in Argentina, where around 90% of direct suppliers are currently being monitored, and in Uruguay, where more than 20% of direct suppliers are already being monitored, with the aim of monitoring all suppliers by 2030 and 2025 respectively.

Recognizing that efforts to strengthen traceability in the chain must be a joint effort, Minerva Foods has launched the first mobile application designed for livestock ranchers throughout Brazil. This application allows them to track their own suppliers. Developed in partnership with Niceplanet Geotecnologia, SMGeo Prospec enables socio-environmental analysis of the agribusiness production chain.

By using the app, ranchers have access to the same technology that the Company uses in its supplier analysis, monitoring systems and risk mapping for all cattle purchases. By making SMGeo Prospec available to the supply chain, Minerva Foods has facilitated the monitoring of its suppliers and reduced the risks associated with cattle from areas that do not comply with social and environmental standards and legislation. To date, more than 2,000 vouchers have been distributed to producers.

SOURCE Minerva Foods
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Catherine Karakatsanis, P.Eng., Chief Operating Officer at Morrison Hershfield, is the new president of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). She is the first woman president in the organization's 110-year history.

Catherine Karakatsanis, M.E.Sc., P.Eng., FEC, FCAE, ICD.D. Chief Operating Officer at Morrison Hershfield, and President of FIDIC. (CNW Group/Morrison Hershfield)

FIDIC is the global advocacy body for national associations of consulting engineers and represents business and commercial interests of over 40,000 firms in more than 100 countries. Ms. Karakatsanis joined FIDIC's Board in 2020 and was elected Vice President in 2021. In her new role as President, she looks forward to working in partnership with member associations to advance FIDIC's important work. Ms. Karakatsanis believes FIDIC plays an significant role in providing a global perspective that can facilitate collective action to advance the engineering profession and deal with the prevailing issues facing our planet.

"The world is facing pressing challenges on many fronts, including climate change, clean water, clean and affordable energy, good health and infrastructure needs, all amid wide disparities in standard of living. We are in the enviable position that the public, otherwise worried about the future, can trust us as professionals who put public welfare above all else," said Ms. Karakatsanis.

Impactful Leader

Ms. Karakatsanis' FIDIC tenure continues her impressive career of industry involvement and volunteer work that has spanned over thirty years. She has also held professional regulatory and advocacy body leadership roles with Engineers Canada, Professional Engineers Ontario and Ontario Society of Professional Engineers. She has served on numerous boards and foundations, including Hydro One Inc., Engineers Without Borders Canada, Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation and the Hellenic Heritage Foundation. A proud Western University alumnus, Ms. Karakatsanis has served on the University's Board of Governors, Engineering Advisory Council, and on various outreach and student programs.

At Morrison Hershfield

Ms. Karakatsanis' professional career at Morrison Hershfield began over three decades ago as a structural engineer and her contributions over the years are immeasurable. She advanced through a series of technical, management and leadership positions, and was elected to the firm's Board of Directors in 2005. She became Chief Operating Officer in 2012 and continues in this role today.

Ms. Karakatsanis is responsible for the technical and operational delivery of the firm's projects and provides day-to-day leadership, strategy and management for over 1,000 personnel. She has made a conscientious commitment to exemplifying and encouraging outstanding leadership within Morrison Hershfield and the industry.

"As an engineer, I have a deep love and immense pride for the profession. Engineers are in a position to directly enhance the well-being of society through our work, and that is incredibly rewarding, Over the years I've had the privelege of working with some of the most talented professionals in the field who have inspired me with their vision, expertise and commitment to excellence. I look forward to continuing to work closely with my leadership team and all dedicated MHers as we strive to fulfil our 2025 Ambition Strategic Plan and to maintain our steady growth in the marketplace," said Ms. Karakatsanis.

Champion of Gender Equity

Ms. Karakatsanis has consistently used her influence to create an environment to promote and mentor other talented women. She is a devoted advocate for creating a more diverse profession and has been a champion of women's issues.

"For over 30 years, Catherine has been blazing a path for women in engineering. She is a visionary, transformative force who thrives on making things happen. Catherine has had an immeasurable impact on Canadian society and her achievements in this traditionally male-dominated field, have paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps," said Ken Coley, P.Eng., Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Western University.

At Morrison Hershfield, she promoted policies that improved working conditions and opportunities for professional women. Her leadership, advocacy and contributions to mentoring and influencing young women to pursue STEM careers and specifically engineering as a profession, are significant. Using her own personal experiences as motivation, she continues to break down barriers and educate business leaders in management positions on the issues women face and the benefits of a more balanced workplace.

Industry Recognition

Ms. Karakatsanis has consistently been recognized for her contributions to Morrison Hershfield, the engineering profession and her community. She received Canada's highest engineering distinction for an individual's achievement in their chosen field  the Gold Medal from Engineers Canada and was awarded Professional Engineers Ontario's highest engineering distinctions  the Gold Medal and the rank of Companion. She was inducted into the Canadian Academy of Engineering as a Fellow, and into Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women Hall of Fame. She also received the Governor General of Canada Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers. Earlier this year, Ms. Karakatsanis was honoured with one of Canadian Consulting Engineering Magazine's first Lifetime Achievement Awards , and an Honorary Doctorate from Western University.

About Morrison Hershfield : Morrison Hershfield is a market leading, employee-owned professional engineering and management firm that has been making a difference for over 77 years. We deliver technically sophisticated, cost effective and sustainable infrastructure solutions across the globe.

SOURCE Morrison Hershfield
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) is delighted to extend an invitation to its upcoming annual benefit luncheon, a cherished event dedicated to celebrating the incredible accomplishments of individuals with learning disabilities. NCLD will recognize the 2023 Anne Ford and Allegra Ford Thomas scholarship winners and honor its esteemed Everyday Champion Award recipients.

Date: Thursday, November 9, 2023

Time: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm

Location: Bryant Park Grill

This year, the luncheon will be hosted by the dynamic Star Jones, an Emmy Award nominee, founding co-host of ABC's The View, Broadcasting Hall of Fame inductee, bestselling author, business executive, attorney, and nationally syndicated Divorce Court judge. Additionally, the afternoon will feature two important conversations exploring the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on individuals with learning disabilities. These conversations will be moderated by James D. Basham , Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Special Education at the University of Kansas and the senior director for learning & innovation at CAST a Boston-based research and development non-profit organization.

The first conversation will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of AI for individuals with learning disabilities. We will examine whether using programs like Chat GPT helps create a level playing field for individuals with learning disabilities such as dyslexia or if this technology introduces additional challenges.

This discussion will be held by:

Kristina Ishmael - Deputy Director, Office of Educational Technology

- Deputy Director, Office of Educational Technology Ericka Rovira , Ph.D. - Professor of Engineering Psychology, United States Military Academy , West Point

- Professor of Engineering Psychology, , Eleazar Vasquez , Ph.D. - Professor & TJEEI Director, University of Central Florida

The second conversation will explore the ethical and safety implications of AI usage alongside an examination of the future of AI for individuals with and without learning disabilities. Our panelists will also share insights into key considerations when utilizing AI for educational, professional and leisure purposes.

The expert facilitators for this discussion will be:

To learn more about NCLD and its mission and programming, visit www.ncld.org . To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://ncld.co/BenefitLuncheon .

SOURCE National Center for Learning Disabilities
New licence provides CHUM access to the ERS CRISPR/Cas9 patent portfolio.

DUBLIN and MONTREAL, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ERS Genomics Limited ('ERS') is pleased to announce a new license agreement with the CHUM Research Centre ('(CRCHUM),'). This is a non-exclusive licensing agreement granting the CRCHUM research rights to the ERS CRISPR/Cas9 patent portfolio.

Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, founder of ERS Genomics, received the 2020 Nobel Prize for the discovery of CRISPR/Cas9. As a direct outcome, the ERS patent portfolio is the definitive collection of proprietary rights to this gene editing technology.

Eric Rhodes, CEO ERS Genomics CHUM Research Centre logo

The CHUM Research Centre is the largest research centre in the field of biomedical sciences and health care at the University of Montreal. It is one of the largest and most modern in Canada.

"With the acquisition of this new license, the CHUM Research Centre has now both the technological capacity and the legal ability to carry out research projects with commercial partners," explained Vincent Poitout, Director of Research at the Centre hospitalier de l'Universite de Montreal (CHUM) and Scientific director of the CRCHUM.

Eric Rhodes, CEO, ERS Genomics was equally enthusiastic about the new agreement: 'Canada's role in the biotechnology landscape has been gaining prominence on a global scale. Particularly, the bio-economy is experiencing rapid growth with Montreal standing out as a noteworthy hub. Aligning perfectly with our corporate vision, this licensing agreement with CRCHUM in Canada signifies a crucial step towards expanding the use of CRISPR/Cas9 globally.'

Financial details of the agreement are not being disclosed.

About the CRCHUM

The CHUM Research Centre (CRCHUM) is one of North America's leading hospital research centres. It strives to improve the health of adults through a continuum of research spanning disciplines such as basic science, clinical research and population health. More than 2,150 people work at the CRCHUM, including nearly 500 researchers and nearly 650 students and postdoctoral fellows.

For additional information, please visit https://www.chumontreal.qc.ca/crchum

Contact: Andree-Anne Toussaint

[email protected]

About ERS Genomics

ERS Genomics is a biotechnology company based in Dublin, Ireland. The company was formed to provide broad access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 intellectual property held by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier. Non-exclusive licenses are available for research and sale of products and services across multiple fields including research tools, kits, reagents; discovery of novel targets for therapeutic intervention; cell lines for discovery and screening of novel drug candidates; GMP production of healthcare products; companion animal and livestock health; production of industrial materials such as enzymes, biofuels and chemicals; and synthetic biology. ERS holds over 100 patents worldwide.

For additional information, please visit www.ersgenomics.com

Media contact: Cillian McGorman, +353 86 396 8499, [email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2090617/Eric_Rhodes.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1756881/ERS_Genomics_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2257713/CHUM_Research_Centre_logo.jpg

SOURCE ERS Genomics
Ecommerce companies in the region can now include certified delivery options in their online checkout and offer a delivery choice that meets strict requirements on climate performance and energy efficiency

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- nShift, the global leader in delivery management software, today announces that PostNord Sweden has become the first carrier in the Nordics that can offer e-commerce logistics services certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. The accolade is now clearly identifiable within the nShift carrier library and can be displayed in the online checkout.

nShift: PostNord Sweden is the first carrier labelled by the Nordic Swan Ecolabel in the nShift library

With over 1000 carriers, nShift offers its customers access to the world's most extensive carrier library, delivering to 190 countries. The certification, which can be included in the online checkout, enables ecommerce companies in Sweden to offer a delivery choice that ensures reduced greenhouse gas emissions by strict requirements on energy efficiency, renewable fuel, and electrified vehicles.

The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is the official and most recognised environmental label in the Nordics, an independent and third-party certified ecolabel that looks at all relevant environmental parameters in a product's life cycle. The Nordics are often attributed as sustainability leaders, demonstrated by their position in the Europe Sustainable Development Report 2021[1] (Finland 1st, Sweden 2nd, Denmark 3rd and Norway 5th).

Mathias Krummel, CEO of PostNord Sweden: "Today, the checkout risks misleading consumers with unclear environmental claims. PostNord has been waiting for third-party certified labels that are reliable. With the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, PostNord can finally clearly demonstrate its ambitious sustainability work and success in its green transition towards the consumer."

The Nordic Swan Ecolabel verifies that logistics suppliers meet strict requirements for climate performance and high energy efficiency and employment contracts in line with collective agreements or similar. The labelling includes 20 criteria regarding the carrier's entire logistics network. It means that not only PostNord's own fleet of vehicles is included, but also the fleets of its transport suppliers. It is also a requirement that a high share of new vehicles bought by the company must run on electricity or biogas.

Sean Sherwin-Smith, Product Director Post-purchase at nShift: "Consumers demand an online shopping experience that's as sustainable as possible. When they are choosing their delivery they need to be able to quickly identify which option is the best from an environmental perspective and be sure that they can trust the eco credentials of the carrier. That's why we're delighted to count PostNord Sweden as one of our carriers and are immensely proud that it is the first in our library to be awarded with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. The Nordic Swan Ecolabel brings the credibility that shoppers look for. Our Checkout functionality enables that credibility to be clearly badged and displayed in the online checkout at of webshops."

Per Sandell, Head of Business Area Finance and Logistics at the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, said: "Being able to choose more sustainable delivery options is important to many consumers. But consumers are confused by different green claims and messages in the check-out. Therefore, the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, as the Nordic's official ecolabel, is a welcome guide for consumers. With the Nordic Swan Ecolabel in the checkout, the complexity of choosing delivery is simplified. Consumers are hereby able to contribute to the necessary green transition of the transport sector."

www.nshift.com

Nordic Swan Ecolabel e-commerce logistics:

Reduce energy consumption and climate impact in the logistics network.

Stimulate fossil-free home deliveries.

Ensure a good basic level of the vehicle fleet, which is gradually increased through investments in electrical, hydrogen and biogas vehicles.

Imply gradually increased use of renewable energy in the logistics network.

Promote employment contracts in line with collective agreements or similar.

Provide financial incentives for reduced air in e-commerce packaging.

Who can get the Nordic Swan Ecolabel? Nordic transport and logistics companies can apply to become licence holders. After an approved license, they can offer Nordic Swan Ecolabel e-commerce transportation to e-commerce businesses. At checkout, consumers can choose a Nordic Swan Ecolabel delivery option.

About nShift

nShift is the global leading provider of cloud delivery management solutions enabling frictionless shipment and return of almost one billion shipments across 190 countries annually. nShift's software is used globally by e-commerce, retail, manufacturing and 3PL shippers. The company is headquartered in London and Oslo. It has over 500 employees across offices in Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, United Kingdom, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium and Romania.

1. https://www.sdgindex.org/reports/europe-sustainable-development-report-2021/

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258638/nShift.jpg

SOURCE nShift
ZogoTech and Nuventive provide campuses a powerful toolset to improve student outcomes, enhance operational efficiency, and elevate institutional performance.

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nuventive, a leader in data-informed improvement software for higher education, announced today a strategic partnership with ZogoTech, a leading provider of community college data analytics solutions. By combining Nuventive's proven expertise in planning and improvement with ZogoTech's cutting-edge data analytics capabilities, this partnership aims to empower colleges and universities with actionable insights and innovative tools to enhance their decision-making processes.

"The alignment of premier data analytics from ZogoTech with planning solutions from Nuventive will provide an exceptional integrated institutional effectiveness solution," noted Dr. Baba Adam, Dean of Planning, Institutional Effectiveness, and Research at Brazosport College.

"[This] will provide an exceptional integrated institutional effectiveness solution," Dr. Baba Adam, Brazosport College Post this

"Nuventive is very excited to be working with ZogoTech to help higher education institutions deliver on their critical initiatives," said Dr. David Raney, CEO of Nuventive. "ZogoTech's outstanding data and reporting solution paired with Nuventive's unique Improvement Platform enables institutions to more effectively use information to identify effective practices and achieve their transformation goals."

From monitoring student enrollment trends and academic performance metrics, to optimizing resource allocation and program effectiveness, to delivering successful diversity and sustainability programs, Nuventive and ZogoTech provide educators, administrators, and institutions with a powerful toolset to drive positive student outcomes, enhance operational efficiency, and elevate overall institutional performance.

"We are thrilled to join forces with Nuventive to create a transformative impact in higher education," said Michael Taft, CEO at ZogoTech. "Our shared commitment to empowering educators and administrators with data-driven solutions aligns perfectly with the needs of today's dynamic institutional and student environments. Together, we can equip colleges and universities with the means to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for both institutions and their students."

About Nuventive

Nuventive enables higher education institutions to turn their priorities into progress through the better use of information. Its cloud-based data-informed improvement platform brings business process and information together to support any improvement initiative, including overall strategy; accreditation; student success; diversity; learning outcomes; general education; administrative outcomes; program review, and sustainability. Nuventive is headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with distribution in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific regions. For more information, please visit nuventive.com or call +1-877-366-8700.

About ZogoTech

ZogoTech is an end-to-end data analytics platform that enables colleges and universities to integrate information sources, transform raw data into actionable intelligence and put it in the hands of the end users that need it to improve enrollment, progression, and student success. Over the past 20 years, administrators, faculty, and staff at 200 campuses across the US have trusted ZogoTech to help them democratize access to data and make better decisions. Visit us online at www.zogotech.com.

Media contact:

[email protected]

Nuventive, the Nuventive logo, and the marks relating to other Nuventive products and services referenced herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Nuventive LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE Nuventive
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Iran, together with Qatar and Turkiye, is ready to help in the release of Israeli hostages, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, speaking at a special session of the UN General Assembly said, Trend reports.

"Hamas leaders have said they are ready to release civilian hostages, and Iran, Turkiye and Qatar intend to participate in solving this important humanitarian problem," the minister said.

A combined attack was carried out on Israel on the morning of October 7, 2023. From the beginning, a massive rocket attack began from the territory of the Gaza Strip, followed by the penetration of militants by land, water, and air.

Israel declared a state of war after a massive rocket attack from the Gaza Strip. Moreover, Israel Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced a mass gathering of reservists.
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The online therapy services market is expected to grow by USD 9.31 billion from 2021 to 2026. In addition, the momentum of the market will progress at a CAGR of 27.7% during the forecast period, according to Technavio Research. The market has been segmented by application (residential use and commercial) and geography (North America, Europe, Asia, and the Rest of the World (ROW)). North America is estimated to contribute 42% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. For example, an important aspect of these reforms included expanding the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996 (MHPA) into the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Parity Act of 2008 (MHPAEA). This report offers an up-to-date analysis of the current market scenario, the latest trends and drivers, and the overall market environment. Read PDF Sample Report

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Online Therapy Services Market 2022-2026

Company Profile:

7 Cups of Tea Co., American Well Corp., BreakThrough Counseling Services, Calmerry, CareMe Health, Cerebral Inc., CRN Solutions AB Corp., DocVita Inc., Felicity, Heart It Out, HopeQure Wellness Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Manochikitsa Online Counseling & Therapy, Mind Voyage, Priory, ReGain, TALKSPACE INC, TalktoAngel, Teladoc Health Inc., ThriveTalk, and Thriveworks Counseling

7 Cups of Tea Co. - The company offers online therapy services such as online therapy for depression, anxiety, relationships, LGBTQ+, and more.

To gain access to more company profiles available with Technavio, buy the report!

Online Therapy Services Market: Segmentation Analysis

The online therapy services market share growth in the residential use segment will be significant during the forecast period. Residential use involves patients staying for 6 months to 12 months in a home setting.

Learn about the contribution of each segment summarized in concise infographics and thorough descriptions. View a PDF Sample Report

"Besides analyzing the current market scenario, our report examines historic data from 2017 to 2021"- Technavio

Online Therapy Services Market: Market Dynamics

Key Drivers

Surging adoption of smartphones coupled with increased preference for online services

Strategic initiatives by market companies

Rising prevalence of mental health disorders

The surging adoption of smartphones coupled with the increased preference for online services is a key factor driving market growth. Increasing uptake of broadband services has led to an increased number of online services, such as e.g. consulting services over the Internet.

Major Trend

The growing popularity of online healthcare services is a major trend in the market

Identify key trends, drivers, and challenges in the market. Download a sample report to gain access to this information.

Related Reports:

The photodynamic therapy market is estimated to grow by USD 2,053.68 million at a CAGR of 8.22% between 2022 and 2027.

The hereditary angioedema (HAE) therapeutics market is estimated to grow by USD 1,647.38 million at a CAGR of 8.95% between 2022 and 2027.

What are the key data covered in this online therapy services market report?

CAGR of the market during the forecast period

Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth of the online therapy services market between 2021 and 2026.

Precise estimation of the online therapy services market size and its contribution to the market in focus on the parent market

Accurate predictions about upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

Growth of the online therapy services market across North America, Europe, Asia, and ROW

A thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies

Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the growth of online therapy services market companies.

ToC:

Executive Summary

Market Landscape

Market Sizing

Historic Market Sizes

Five Forces Analysis

Market Segmentation by Application

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
Daily nonstop service to Music City takes off June 2024

ONTARIO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontario International Airport (ONT) officials welcomed the announcement that Southwest Airlines will add daily nonstop service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) beginning June 4th next year. The new service is now available for booking at Southwest.com.

Southwest Airlines will add daily nonstop service from Southern California's Ontario International Airport to Nashville International Airport beginning June 4th next year

"Our friends at Southwest Airlines have a wonderful home at Ontario International, and we couldn't be more pleased by their continued commitment to our airport, and the addition of new service to Nashville," said Atif Elkadi, CEO of the Ontario International Airport. "This nonstop link to Nashville will allow visitors from Tennessee the opportunity to experience everything that Southern California and the Inland Empire have to offer, while also providing seamless connecting opportunities for travelers from our region visiting the East Coast and the Southeast."

Nashville will become Southwest's 12th nonstop destination from ONT while Music City will be the Southern California gateway's 24th nonstop destination overall.

News of the ONT-BNA service, announced earlier today, comes just weeks after Ontario earned the highest score among California airports in the prestigious J.D. Power 2023 North America Airport Satisfaction Study which rated airports on their terminal facilities, airport arrival/departure, baggage claim, security check, check-in/baggage check and food, beverage and retail offerings.

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X, and Instagram

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA leaders include Ontario City Council Member Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

ONT Media Contact:

Steve Lambert, (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

SOURCE Ontario International Airport
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Peak Support, a fast-growth leader in the BPO industry, is thrilled to announce the relaunch of its website, peaksupport.io. With this relaunch come aesthetic improvements as well as increased functionality for browsing the site effectively.

The site features a new, more robust color palette and layout. It will make clear the versatility of Peak Support's offerings and stands to help potential clients find the information they need efficiently with the help of user-friendly navigation and a chat feature.

"This update to our website is a reflection of significant continued growth throughout the organization," said Hannah Steiman, Peak Support's President. "We've expanded to offer support from the Philippines, the US, Colombia, and Eastern Europe and are leveraging AI to maintain our position as industry leaders. Keeping an equally refreshed web presence is important to us."

Peak Support invites visitors to explore the new website at peaksupport.io. Individuals navigating the site should pay special attention to Peak Support's case studies and blog posts which are regularly updated.

About Peak Support

Peak Support is the outsourcing company for clients who put people first. We provide exceptional support to our clients and an exceptional work environment for our employees. We offer a wide array of services including customer support, technical support, back office services, and tech & AI solutions, from locations in the US, Asia, Colombia, and Eastern Europe. Peak Support won Best Outsourcing Provider at the 20222 ICMI Awards, reached #854 on the Inc. 5000, is certified as a Great Place to Work, and is recognized by Clutch as a Top Global BPO.

Media Contact:

Jess Elgene

Marketing Specialist

[email protected]

866.691.3419

SOURCE Peak Support
DENVER, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pet Releaf, the original and #1 selling provider of pet CBD, is excited to announce the launch of new retailer resources designed to support and empower valued retail partners. New resources include the innovative online training program Pet Releaf University using the platform retail.pet, as well as dedicated support specialists assigned to each store.

Pet Releaf University offers verified retailers access to a wealth of valuable educational resources. This user-friendly platform is designed to enhance retailer knowledge, provide product insights, and equip stores with the tools needed to educate customers effectively.

Pet Releaf University, Pet Releaf's brand-new online training platform, offers verified retailers access to a wealth of valuable educational resources. This user-friendly platform is designed to enhance retailer knowledge, provide product insights, and equip stores with the tools needed to educate customers effectively. By completing training modules, retailers will have the chance to earn prizes and other rewards.

Beyond providing online resources, Pet Releaf understands the importance of personalized human support. To better serve their retailers, the brand is introducing a dedicated Customer Service Support Specialist, a Sales Specialist, and a Marketing Specialist to each store. These specialists will work closely with each store to provide tailored assistance and guidance, ensuring retailers have the support they need to thrive. Whether it's answering product questions, providing materials for marketing campaigns, or sharing custom assets, each store's specialists are committed to helping retailers succeed.

"At Pet Releaf, we are committed to providing the highest level of support to our retail partners," said Co-Founder Chelsea Gennings. "We believe that well-informed and supported retailers are essential to delivering our mission of improving pets' lives through the power of CBD. Pet Releaf University and our dedicated specialists are just some of the ways we are investing in our valued stores."

These new resources are a testament to Pet Releaf's commitment to empowering retail customers and ensuring that pets everywhere have access to high-quality CBD products. Pet Releaf University and the dedicated specialists are available now to all stores that carry Pet Releaf.

If you are interested in carrying Pet Releaf products in your store and receiving custom support, you can contact Pet Releaf here.

For more information about Pet Releaf visit petreleaf.com.

About Pet Releaf

Pet Releaf is the original plant-based pet CBD brand  supporting pets, their parents, and the planet with sustainably made, veterinarian-formulated hemp-based solutions. Since its founding more than a decade ago, the company has led the industry with its commitment to education, transparency, and most of all, effectiveness, and has transformed the lives of more than 5 million pets and their families. Sourced on regenerative farms in Colorado and awarded the NASC quality seal, Pet Releaf's products help reduce discomfort and irritation, support calm behavior and optimal digestion, and promote long-term health and general wellness. Learn more at petreleaf.com.

Media Contact

Miranda Carney

[email protected]

SOURCE Pet Releaf
PASAY CITY, Philippines, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As SM celebrates its 65th year in business, one may reflect on the many life lessons of Henry Sy Sr. This particular insight comes to mind, "It's important that I never lose touch with the pulse of my shoppers," he said, highlighting SM's distinct culture of customer service.

Five companies from the SM Group are recognized as having the Best Customer Service in the Philippines conferred by local broadsheet Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista, a Germany-based data and business intelligence portal.

"Our communities are at the heart of everything that we do here at SM," said Frederic C. DyBuncio, SM Investments President and Chief Executive Officer. "It's not about making quick transactions, rather it's a commitment to creating equal opportunities for all our customers."

The recognition cites five SM companies which ranked first in their respective categories.

In the Home Goods category, the SM Store secured the top position in the Department Store rankings, while SM Retail affiliate Toy Kingdom placed first in the Toys category.

BDO Unibank Inc., (BDO), SM Markets and SM Cinema clinched the top spots in the categories of Insurance, Supermarkets, and Movie Theaters, respectively.

As the most-awarded company in the inaugural list, SM's core business of retail pays homage to Mr. Sy or 'Tatang' as those close to him fondly call him, remembering his 'win-win' philosophy.

In a past interview with Australian author Peter Church, Mr. Sy remarked on the importance of the common good in whatever one does.

"I believe the SM Store and SM Supermalls will succeed if the quality and prices are right for the consumers and the conditions are similarly fair for the employees," he said.

Mr. Sy's life lessons still echo across the SM Group. From holding company SM Investments Corporation to all of its core businesses in retail, banking, and property, these lessons are still passed along from one generation to the next.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is a leading Philippine company that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM's retail operations are the country's largest and most diversified with its food, non-food, and specialty retail stores. SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM's interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country's largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest bank by total assets among private banks.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

SOURCE SM Investments Corporation
North American Filtration Enhances Green Solutions with Acquisition of Filtrex Incorporated

WAYNE, N.J., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- North American Filtration ("NAF"), a leading manufacturer and distributor of commercial pool filtration, chemical feed equipment and chemicals, is excited to announce the acquisition of Filtrex Incorporated ("Filtrex"). Filtrex is a prominent manufacturer of regenerative media filter systems and components.

The integration of Filtrex's filtration technology embodies NAF's commitment to delivering industry-leading, eco-conscious solutions. Chris Tedeschi, President of NAF's Aquatics Division, comments, "This acquisition marks a new era of innovation and reinforces our shared commitment to a greener future."

Ron Neugold, former President of Filtrex, expresses his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, "We are thrilled to have Filtrex join the NAF family of companies. We believe that the combined knowledge, expertise, and resources will lead to continued product innovation and customer satisfaction."

NAF has a well-established dedication to providing customers with the most advanced and efficient liquid filtration and separation technologies.

About North American Filtration

Based in Ramsey, New Jersey, NAF is a leading provider of water filtration and separation solutions for the municipal, industrial, commercial, and aquatics markets. To learn more, visit https://northamericanfiltration.com.

About Filtrex Incorporated

Based in Wayne, New Jersey, Filtrex Incorporated is a leading manufacturer of regenerative media filters that provides customized solutions of the highest quality with unmatched dependability and reliability. To learn more, visit https://filtrexnj.com.

Contact: Chris Rinaldi

Office: (908) 400-1430

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE North American Filtration
171 Employees Honored for Millions of Miles of Safe Driving

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Postal Service held a National Logistics Symposium for employees from Oct. 24-26 in Kansas City. The symposium provided information on the latest driver technology, safe driving strategies, driver training and an award recognition for USPS tractor trailer operators.

USPS Network Specialist Byron Stovall conducts training on how to properly use mirrors and check for blind spots during a truck safety rodeo demonstration.

"We want our drivers to return home to their families every night safe and sound. Their safety, along with the safety of the critical cargo they carry, is an important responsibility shouldered by the Postal Service," said Kelly Abney, chief logistics officer and executive vice president. "Safe operations not only ensure our drivers are protected, but also protect the safety of the mail and the American public."

The symposium included training to promote safe driving practices, truck safety rodeo demonstrations and educational sessions.

The Postal Service also honored 171 tractor trailer drivers with a National Safety Council (NSC) award in recognition of their stellar safe driving records. The NSC Million Mile Award recognizes drivers with 1 million miles of driving or 30 accumulated years driven without preventable incidents.

"I have been employed with the Postal Service for over 30 years and as a tractor trailer operator, I always aim to do my job safely and efficiently," said Carl Elleston, who works at the Brooklyn, NY, Processing and Distribution Center. "I am honored and appreciate that my commitment to safe driving is being recognized."

The Postal Service has a partnership with the NSC to recognize driver excellence. The NSC Million Mile Award is considered the gold standard and highest honor for professional safe driving performance. Reaching this milestone requires an unwavering attention to safety, defensive driving and courteous vehicle operation.

Abney expressed his gratitude for the drivers who qualified for the award. "It is only possible if a driver truly embraces safety as an integral part of his or her daily routine. Few drivers are able to reach this benchmark, and I hope to see all the award recipients reach the 2-million-mile threshold."

The Postal Vehicle Service (PVS) includes more than 11,000 uniformed motor vehicle, tractor trailer and noncommercially licensed operators. The PVS fleet operates over 15,000 assets. Commuting within a 170-mile radius of their facility, PVS drivers traveled more than 167 million miles last year.

Please contact [email protected] for additional truck safety training photos.

Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to nearly 165 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.

National: David P. Coleman

[email protected]

usps.com/news

Local: Mark Inglett

[email protected]

usps.com/news

SOURCE U.S. Postal Service
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), a nonprofit organization leading the fight to end Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne), welcomed today's decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve AGAMREE (vamorolone) a dissociative steroid indicated for individuals diagnosed with Duchenne from age two years and older. AGAMREE marks a significant milestone as the second therapy approved for Duchenne that is applicable regardless of the specific genetic mutation. It is the seventh approved therapy for Duchenne in the United States. AGAMREE will be made available and marketed in the United States by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, which entered into an agreement with Santhera Pharmaceuticals in June 2023 for exclusive North America commercialization rights.

"PPMD is thrilled that the FDA has approved AGAMREE, a steroid alternative therapy that aims to retain the beneficial anti-inflammatory and muscle strengthening aspects of corticosteroids, while decreasing some of the undesirable side effects such as bone fragility, delayed growth, insulin resistance, and behavior changes. Today's approval has the potential to offer patients a therapy option with better tolerability, addressing a significant unmet need in our community," said PPMD Founding President and CEO Pat Furlong.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the patients and their families who participated in these trials, as well as to ReveraGen BioPharma, Santhera Pharmaceuticals, and the many dedicated clinicians and scientists who have tirelessly worked to develop this therapy. We also want to commend FDA leadership for recognizing the potential of AGAMREE to make a difference in the lives of individuals living with Duchenne," Furlong added. "PPMD is pleased to have collaborated with other foundations and community partners to support the early development of vamorolone. We are thrilled to see the approval of another therapeutic option for Duchenne."

PPMD will host a community webinar on Wednesday, November 1st at 1:00 PM ET with Dr. Aravindhan Veerapandiyan (Arkansas Children's Hospital) to discuss the approval of AGAMREE and what it means for individuals living with Duchenne. Register now and submit your questions in advance.

PPMD will also host a webinar on Wednesday, November 15th at 1:00 PM ET with Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, the drug company responsible for the commercialization of AGAMREE, to provide an explanation of the drug, its label, and eligibility criteria. Register now and submit your questions in advance here.

"Going forward, PPMD remains committed to working with all stakeholders and the community to do all we possibly can to ensure all patients who are eligible for AGAMREE obtain access to the drug. It is not enough to clear the FDA. We must make sure that all those who can benefit from these innovative therapies are able to access them as they reach the market," said Furlong. "Additionally, PPMD believes that it will take a combination of therapies to fully halt progression and will continue to support the development of additional tools and resources to accelerate the development and approval of additional therapies and treatments for Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy."

PPMD provided philanthropic investment to ReveraGen for the development of VPB15 (vamorolone). As part of that agreement PPMD will recover that investment and additional payment from ReveraGen if vamorolone attains specific commercial milestones. Any returns will be reinvested in programs supporting PPMD's mission.

PPMD employs a comprehensive approach to identify opportunities to accelerate development of all therapies in Duchenne, including regulatory, research, and patient-recruitment counsel to help expedite the progress of investigational products. PPMD's patient-report registry, The Duchenne Registry, as well as PPMD's Duchenne Outcomes Research Interchange, serve as resources for researchers and industry to access aggregated, de-identified information provided by patients and families. Additionally, PPMD remains committed to its sector-leading patient engagement efforts, which include multiple patient preference studies and a revised community-generated draft guidance document, recently updated to reflect advancements in knowledge, understanding, care, clinical trials, and approvals. PPMD also takes a lead role in advocating for national newborn screening efforts for Duchenne, Becker, and carrier identification, as well as policy efforts around access and reimbursement.

ABOUT PARENT PROJECT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

Duchenne is a genetic disorder that slowly robs people of their muscle strength. Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) fights every single battle necessary to end Duchenne.

We demand optimal care standards and ensure every family has access to expert healthcare providers, cutting edge treatments, and a community of support. We invest deeply in treatments for this generation of Duchenne patients and in research that will benefit future generations. Our advocacy efforts have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding and won seven FDA approvals.

Everything we doand everything we have done since our founding in 1994helps those with Duchenne live longer, stronger lives. We will not rest until we end Duchenne for every single person affected by the disease. Join our fight against Duchenne at EndDuchenne.org. Follow PPMD on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

SOURCE Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD)
The Profesor Douglas A. Melton opens the door to cure type 1 diabetes

BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Professor Douglas A. Melton's studies focus on curing type 1 diabetes through transplants of insulin-producing cells, particularly pancreatic beta cells, which measure glucose levels and secrete the right amount of insulin, achieving a "functional cure" in type 1 diabetes patients in clinical trials. This is one of the most disruptive scientific discoveries of our time with important medical, and even social implications.

Dra. Elena Abarca, Dr. Juan Abarca, His Majesty the King of Spain, Professor Douglas A Melton and Alberto Munoz, President of FiHM

For this important scientific breakthrough, Professor Melton, co-director of Harvard Stem Cell Institute, researcher at Howard Hughes Institute of Medicine and distinguished research fellow at Vertex Pharmaceuticals in Boston, was received by His Majesty the King of Spain in recognition for being honoured with the third edition of the ABARCA PRIZE, the Doctor Juan Abarca International Award for Medical Science. Dr. Juan Abarca and Dra. Elena Abarca, president and vice president of HM Hospitales, respectively, and Professor Alberto Munoz, president of the Fundacion de Investigacion HM Hospitales (FiHM) also attended the meeting.

Professor Melton, who received 100.000 euros and a certified diploma for the prize, commented that "I am very excited and delighted about the 'ABARCA PRIZE' award and I want to thank the Abarca Cidon family and the FiHM. But for me the greatest reward would be that my children would never have to take insulin injections. For any father, seeing that he can get his children free from an illness is the greatest reward I can aspire to. My commitment is that a child who is currently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can think that he will have a cure, and I have no reason to believe that it is not possible. My message is a message of hope for them."

Melton is currently working with his team and different pharmaceutical companies on different clinical trials to develop cell therapy as a new treatment for type 1 diabetes. "Possibly the two most important changes in research are the ability to modify genes and the use of stem cells. The combination of both will provide new treatments for many diseases." Melton concluded.

PICTURES - https://www.abarcaprize.com/press-room/

For more information: www.abarcaprize.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258711/Audiencia_Casa_Real.jpg

SOURCE Abarca Prize
COVINGTON, Ky., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Promevo , a leading provider of Google solutions, is proud to announce that its CEO, Karthik Kripapuri, has been recognized and honored with the prestigious Channel Leadership Award at Google's ChromeOS Global Partner Summit in New York City earlier this month. While presented to Kripapuri, this esteemed award acknowledges the entire Promevo team's exceptional leadership and collaboration with the Google Chrome team, solidifying its position as a trusted ChromeOS partner.

This achievement is a testament to Promevo's unwavering dedication to advancing the ChromeOS ecosystem and delivering innovative solutions to customers. During the awards ceremony, Google representatives cited the following initiatives as driving forces behind the recognition:

CEU Trials on the Promevo Webshop: Promevo's commitment to continuous improvement and client satisfaction is evident in its innovative implementation of Chrome Enterprise Upgrade (CEU) trials on its webshop. This initiative has enabled more businesses to experience the comprehensive benefits of ChromeOS firsthand.

Promevo's commitment to continuous improvement and client satisfaction is evident in its innovative implementation of Chrome Enterprise Upgrade (CEU) trials on its webshop. This initiative has enabled more businesses to experience the comprehensive benefits of ChromeOS firsthand. API Ordering Integration: Promevo was one of the first direct partners to implement advanced API ordering capabilities. This feature streamlines the procurement process for Chrome devices, bringing the ordering process closer to the customer and creating a more positive purchasing experience.

Promevo was one of the first direct partners to implement advanced API ordering capabilities. This feature streamlines the procurement process for Chrome devices, bringing the ordering process closer to the customer and creating a more positive purchasing experience. gPanel Platform: Promevo's proprietary Google Workspace management platform, gPanel , integrates with not only Google Workspace but also ChromeOS devices, empowering organizations to see the value of the Google platform from end to end.

Promevo's proprietary Google Workspace management platform, , integrates with not only Google Workspace but also ChromeOS devices, empowering organizations to see the value of the Google platform from end to end. Driving Cross-Platform Adoption: Promevo's commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions has resulted in successful cross-sell efforts by driving Google Workspace clients to adopt Google Chrome. This strategy ensures clients embrace the full potential of the Google platform, giving them access to tailored and effective business solutions.

Karthik Kripapuri, CEO of Promevo, expressed his gratitude for the award, saying, "We are truly honored to receive the Channel Leadership Award from the Google Chrome team. This recognition was truly a team effort and highlights our dedication to innovation, collaboration, and our shared vision of empowering organizations with the best-in-class ChromeOS solutions. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Google to drive even greater advancements in the future."

Promevo's exceptional performance in these key areas has solidified its standing as a trusted Google partner and advocate of ChromeOS. The Channel Leadership Award is a testament to the unwavering commitment and expertise that Promevo brings to its clients.

For more information about Promevo's innovative solutions, please visit www.promevo.com .

About Promevo

Promevo is a trusted Google Premier Partner that offers Google Workspace, Google Chrome, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) products, services, and proprietary software to help customers navigate, monitor, and optimize their Google technology infrastructure. Promevo is committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and driving business success through the power of Google solutions.

For media inquires, please contact:

Brandon Carter

[email protected]

(888) 380-1061

SOURCE Promevo
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Armenia's Charge d'Affaires in Russia has been summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Spokesperson for Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova said during a weekly briefing, Trend reports.

"The Charge d'affaires of the Armenian Embassy in Moscow was summoned to the Russian Foreign Ministry on October 25. His attention was drawn to the most odious publications addressed to the Russian leadership, Russian diplomats and peacemakers. They pointed out the unacceptability of the ongoing anti-Russian campaign in the information space of the republic, including public television, government-controlled media, and telegram channels. I am sure that the Armenian side understands what we are talking about," Zakharova said.

Russian Ambassador Sergey Kopyrkin was earlier handed a note of protest at the Armenian Foreign Ministry due to "unacceptable statements" against the leadership of the republic on Russian television.
PALM SPRINGS, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11th, 2023 at 11 am, the Palm Springs Air Museum will unveil its newest acquisition inside its 91,000 square foot facility. "One exciting addition this year is the extremely rare B-29 Superfortress 44-69957 "Hot One" Nose & Cockpit section. She will be dedicated to the memory of Bob McKee, one of the Palm Springs Air Museum's beloved docents and to the City of Palm Springs," said Museum director Fred Bell. The Nose features the city of Palm Springs' logo on one side, and the squadron's logo on the other. Bob McKee was a B-29 radar operation with the 479th Bomb Group, 20th Air Force. This particular airplane flew with the 879th Bombardment Squadron of the 499th Bombardment Group out of Isley Field, Saipan. It returned to the US after the war and was converted to an SB-29 Search & Rescue Aircraft. She was then sent to China Lake, CA in 1960 to be used as a test target. She took a direct hit in a weapons test. The shell of the nose and the salvageable parts have been lovingly restored by Palm Springs Air Museum's restoration volunteers. "This is an extremely rare airplane and we are so happy to be able to give her a new lease on life," Fred Bell concluded,

In addition to the B-29 unveiling, Heatwave Jazz Band performs and birthday cake will be served to visitors. Vintage warbirds will be landing and taking off from the tarmac behind the museum. Warbird rides are for sale. Kids 12 and under get in free with paid adult admission. Veterans receive free admission on Veterans Day.

The Palm Springs Air Museum is an educational non-profit museum. It contains over 73 vintage airframes from World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the new F-117 Stealth Fighter inside The Jim Houston Pavilion. Aircraft are contained inside 91,000 square feet of open hangars and on the tarmac. Additional displays and memorabilia are located throughout the hangars. Upstairs in the Library are 12,000 volumes and flight simulators. The Museum is open daily from 10 AM until 5 PM, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and on February 10, 2024. For more information, visit https://PalmSpringsAirMuseum.org or call 760-778-6262 during business hours.

Media Contact: Ann Greer  323-363-8243  cell

[email protected]/ [email protected]

SOURCE Palm Springs Air Museum
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a joint effort to transform plastic waste into valuable commodities, re:3D is honored to announce that equipment for the first Gigalab has been delivered to Bayamon, Puerto Rico. Supported by funding from the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust, this shipping container manufacturing lab contains hardware to convert plastic waste into functional goods using a GigabotX 2 3D printer. The Gigalab also serves as a mobile workspace currently connected to the Engine-4 Foundation to support community-driven innovation. Founder Luis Torres explains that "by utilizing 3D printing technology with recycled materials, Engine-4 envisions exploring potential projects centered around agrotechnology to establish a precedent for future eco-conscious technological endeavors."

Final construction is underway to begin a formal demonstration through June 2024 during which re:3D Designer Mike Pujols Vasquez will test waste on the island for printability using designs made in collaboration with Puerto Rican communities. Says Pujols Vasquez, "re:3D's Gigalab is a significant step towards innovative community solutions by repurposing plastic waste through 3D printing technology, crucial in Puerto Rico where waste management is a challenge".

To learn more about Gigalab visit: https://re3d.org/puerto-rico-gigalab-delivery/

About re:3D

re:3D Inc. consists of a group of explorers committed to decimating the cost & scale barriers to industrial 3D printing. Having pioneered the world's first and most affordable, human-scale industrial 3D printer, re:3D likewise is creating large scale, affordable 3D printers printing from pellets, regrind, and flake plastic waste. Beyond creating 3D printers for customers in over 50 countries, re:3D offers 3D printing contract services, consulting, design and education services. For more information on re:3D, visit www.re3d.org .

About Engine-4 Foundation

Engine-4 Foundation is a non-profit based in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, dedicated to advancing innovative technologies like their 5G NB IoT Lab initiative, and promoting sustainability. They provide STEAM education to spark youth interest in science, engineering, and agro-technology, preparing them for a tech-driven future. They also engage in research and development in STEAM and agro-technology projects to enhance resilience and sustainability. By supporting Engine-4 Foundation, backers help foster cutting-edge technology, dynamic education, and a more sustainable future, allowing the foundation to continue making a positive impact.

SOURCE re:3D
OSLO, Norway and SINGAPORE, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MRHB, hailed as the 'Best New Islamic Crypto Platform', has forged a strategic alliance with Reltime to integrate its shariah compliant products into the Reltime Ecosystem. This partnership aims to deliver sharia compliant digital assets and services for faith sensitive customers globally.



Sharia finance refers to how businesses and individuals raise capital in accordance with Sharia  the Islamic law. It refers to the types of investments that are permissible, ensuring socially responsible investments. Islamic finance is banking, lending, and saving practices that comply with Islamic law. Shariah/ Halal compliance focuses on an ethical framework of financial instruments and restricts potential harm from the conventional systems currently established. For example, it views lending as a relationship where interests cannot be earned. Sharia law also forbids investors to invest in companies that engage in unethical activities. The Islamic finance industry reached almost USD 4 trillion in 2021, with a growth rate of 17%, up from 14% in 2020.



CEO of Reltime, Marlene Julo, expressed her enthusiasm, "This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in our journey where we can target many key markets (MENA, South- East Asia) more deeply, taking into account religious and social sensitivities of the end users. Together with MRHB Network, we are not just envisioning but actively sculpting the future of the Shariah compliant Web3 services. It's an exhilarating time for both teams, and the possibilities are boundless."



Echoing these sentiments, CEO of MRHB Naquib Mohammed added, "Reltime has built right suite of digital and financial services in its Layer-1 blockchain platform. We see immense value in integrating and offering our Sharia compliant service modules and business logic through Reltime to our institutional partners".



About MRHB Network

MRHB Network is at the forefront of revolutionizing the cryptocurrency landscape, offering a range of financial products rooted in both ethical and halal principles. They will be the 'WeChat' for halal/ethical web3. Seamlessly integrating the halal economy, payments, digital assets and cryptocurrencies in a user-friendly non-custodial wallet app. As the leading player in a $5 trillion space with near zero penetration, we look set to dominate the space. MRHB is set to become the preferred B2C and B2B2C (SaaS) halal platform for effectively managing all aspects of finance and commerce (with regulated partners) in one convenient place, thus boosting financial inclusion and empowerment through the new paradigm of digital assets.

For more information about MRHB Network visit: https://mrhb.network/

Press Contact: Ahmed Jawa [email protected]

About Reltime

Reltime is revolutionizing the financial and digital services industry with its advanced Web3 platform. Reltime has developed its own Layer-1 Proof of Authority Blockchain with zero transaction and gas fees. The platform includes a range of applications such as non-custodian wallets, SuperApp, loyalty programs, payment solutions, lending services, QR codes, CBDCs and digital fiats, and utility tokens. Additionally, the Reltime platform provides customer administration features like eKYC, identity management, SLA, and reporting. By incorporating a decentralized identity, Reltime is driving the next generation of digitization in supply chain management, tokenization, asset ownership, and global trade.

For more information about Reltime AS, visit, https://www.reltime.com/

Press Contact Reltime: Bishwajit Choudhary [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE Reltime AS
CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its RockItCoin Gives initiative, RockItCoin is making a Bitcoin donation to Nourishing Hope, one of Chicago's largest and longest operating hunger relief organizations, in an ongoing effort to combat hunger and poverty in the local community. Additionally, several of RockItCoin's dedicated employees are volunteering their time to assist Nourishing Hope in their mission.

RockItCoin founder and CEO Michael Dalesandro expressed his enthusiasm for Nourishing Hope's efforts: "RockItCoin is proud to support a remarkable organization like Nourishing Hope with a mission that mirrors our own commitment to the Chicago community. We believe in the power of collective action and are excited to make a meaningful impact in the fight against hunger."

RockItCoin employees assisted the Nourishing Hope team in packing orders for Nourishing Hope's online market, providing hands-on support for the organization's mission of providing food and hope in Chicago. The Bitcoin donation will further aid Nourishing Hope in their tireless efforts to provide food, support, and a brighter future for Chicago's most vulnerable residents.

"We are so grateful for the support from RockItCoin," said Kellie O'Connell, CEO of Nourishing Hope. "With the help of innovative and civic-minded companies like RockItCoin, we can grow our impact to serve more of our neighbors in need throughout Chicago."

As a Chicago-based company, RockItCoin understands the importance of giving back to the local community. The RockItCoin Gives initiative was created to make meaningful contributions to organizations like Nourishing Hope, which are dedicated to improving the lives of those in need.

More information on Nourishing Hope can be found at https://www.nourishinghopechi.org/

About RockItCoin:

Founded in 2015 by Michael Dalesandro, RockItCoin is a crypto blockchain company and Inc. 5000 honoree based in Chicago, IL. RockItCoin has a nationwide network of crypto ATMs with over 2,000 locations in 47 States and 16,000 retail deposit locations, providing consumers with the safest and fastest way to buy or sell cryptocurrencies. For more information, please visit https://www.rockitcoin.com and join the conversation on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn.

CONTACT:

Jarryd Baynes

[email protected]

SOURCE RockItCoin
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today the national food safety law firm of Ron Simon & Associates, along with San Diego's preeminent law firm, Gomez Trial Attorneys, filed the first lawsuit in the E. Coli Outbreak linked to Miguel's Cocina in San Diego, a Mexican restaurant owned and operated by Brigantine Inc.

National Food Poisoning Law Firm, Ron Simon & Associates, Files First E. coli Lawsuit in the Miguel's Cocina E. coli Outbreak in San Diego, California

According to the San Diego Health and Human Services (SDHHS) there have been 15 victims identified thus far, including at least 7 requiring hospitalization. SDHHS has identified Miguel's Cocina 45 Ranch, located at 10514 Craftsman Way, in San Diego, as the source of the outbreak, implicating meals eaten between October 6th through the 18th. At least one victim is suffering from hemolytic uremic syndrome, or HUS.

The lawsuit was filed against Brigantine Inc. in San Diego County, California on behalf of Mary Margaret Dowd, one of the victim's requiring hospitalization. She ate at Miguel's Cocina. On October 12th, including, among other things, chips, rice, and guacamole.

Food Safety Attorney Ron Simon Issues Statement for Victims and Establishes E. coli Claim Center

National food safety attorney Ron Simon, who represents Mrs. Dowd, issued the following statement: "The very fact that the illnesses were contracted over a six-day period is disturbing. It indicates that the E. coli was present in the kitchen at Miguel's Cocina for a protracted period of time. We will use discovery in this litigation to identify what went wrong, and to make sure this does not happen again."

Mr. Simon and his law firm have established an E. coli Claim Center to assist victims in the outbreak. The E. coli Claim Center can be reached toll-free at 1-888-335-4901, or at either https://www.ronsimonassociates.com/ or https://miguelscocinalawsuit.com.

About Food Safety Attorney Ron Simon

Over the last 25 years, Ron Simon and his colleagues have prosecuted thousands of food poisoning cases for victims across the United States. His work has resulted in numerous upgrades to food safety procedures in Fortune 500 companies and in legislation designed to protect consumers from dangerous food-borne pathogens.

Mr. Simon and his clients have been featured on NBC, ABC, CBS, CNN, FOX and virtually all other major television networks and print media. Mr. Simon and his legal team have collected over $750,000,000 for their clients. He regularly publishes articles about food safety and litigation at www.foodpoisoningnews.com which are read by viewers in over 180 countries.

Through litigation, media commentary, and his food poisoning publications, Mr. Simon relentlessly challenges food manufacturers, distributors, and restaurants to do a better job in making our food safe.

For media inquiries or more information on the E. coli outbreak and ongoing litigation, please contact Ron Simon directly at (713) 819-8116 or [email protected].

SOURCE Ron Simon & Associates
KANSAS CITY, Mo. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SafetyCulture , the US$1.7 billion global technology company known for creating the world's most-used checklist app (iAuditor), has unveiled the most significant update to its products since the company began in 2012.

At its inaugural 'SafetyCulture Next' event , the company unveiled a new supercharged version of the SafetyCulture workplace operations platform, which will support its ambition to reach over 100 million deskless workers by 2032.

Despite the fact around 80% of the global workforce are in frontline roles, investment in technology has traditionally been focused on supporting systems for office-based workers. SafetyCulture believes it can fill a gap in the market by building software that frontline workers actually want to use.

SafetyCulture is known for its products that help teams perform inspections and raise and resolve issues. The new version of its platform unveiled today also includes:

Training - offering a smarter way to onboard, instruct, and upskill teams. This feature digitizes work instructions and equipment manuals and helps create training on the go.

- offering a smarter way to onboard, instruct, and upskill teams. This feature digitizes work instructions and equipment manuals and helps create training on the go. Assets - providing a versatile digital record-keeping tool for physical assets, where users can also perform inspections and log issues against specific assets. This feature offers an up-to-date audit trail and access to vital data, like vehicle telematics via QR code.

- providing a versatile digital record-keeping tool for physical assets, where users can also perform inspections and log issues against specific assets. This feature offers an up-to-date audit trail and access to vital data, like vehicle telematics via QR code. Sensors - offering the ability to monitor a variety of sensors and telematics.

- offering the ability to monitor a variety of sensors and telematics. Heads Up - helping leaders communicate critical team updates via video. The feature also records acknowledgment of this information from teams.

- helping leaders communicate critical team updates via video. The feature also records acknowledgment of this information from teams. Marketplace - assisting workers to order workplace gear and equipment with a single click. This feature has been designed to simplify procurement, free up valuable time, and become a one-stop shop. 70,000 products from 120 brands are now available to customers in the USA and Australia .

Importantly, these features are all integrated and available for workers on one platform. As a single system, it removes the need for workers to toggle multiple systems, use different apps, and navigate paper-based procedures.

"We've announced a lot of new features today, but one thing that hasn't changed is that we're working towards a huge goal: to change the way people work, for the better. Secondly, we want the platform to be used by over 100 million users by 2032," said Luke Anear, Founder and CEO of SafetyCulture.

The new platform also assists teams in transforming everyday tasks. It can digitize paper-based forms from a photo and harnesses the power of AI to help users create custom training, lessons, and inspection templates from their phones in mere minutes.

Alongside the platform's launch, SafetyCulture has released new research , which delves into the experience of the frontline workforce.* The research shows the majority of frontline workers (63%) are likely to use a single app (or a platform) at work, and half (50%) are excited to learn about emerging technologies, including AI.

SafetyCulture also teased several new features coming to its platform, including the ability to manage contractors, functionality to manage incidents, and a feature to help improve lone worker safety.

You can view the online event here .

About SafetyCulture:

SafetyCulture is a global technology company that helps frontline teams find a better way of working. Its mobile-first workplace operations platform gives teams the knowledge, tools, and confidence they need to meet higher standards, work safely, and improve every day. The SafetyCulture platform powers over a billion checks each year, delivers approximately 75,000 lessons per day, and informs millions of corrective actions.

A recent analysis by Forrester found that SafetyCulture's flagship products provide customers with a 214% return on investment and $3.6M in cost savings from operational improvements. Customers of SafetyCulture's award-winning products include the likes of Jet Blue, Marriott, Toyota, and Schneider Electric.

SOURCE SafetyCulture
MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 19-20, 2023, 25 students from Johnson Senior High School, Highland Park Senior High School, and Community of Peace Academy, in collaboration with Tree Trust, a Saint Paul-based nonprofit, took tangible steps toward a greener future by planting 206 trees in Saint Paul.

Tree Trust Tree Trust

The tree planting event, which took place during the MEA school break, was not only a stride towards a better environment but also a testament to the power of community engagement and youth empowerment. The two-day effort helped revitalize Saint Paul's urban forest, particularly in areas where the landscape had been impacted by the removal of ash trees infested with emerald ash borer (EAB).

"We love planting trees with young people and teaching skills so they can think about future career paths. It might be finance and it might be a climbing arborist. We want to help them find the path that provides passion and aligns with their values and purpose," said Tree Trust Executive Director and CEO Jared Smith.

Ward 7 Saint Paul City Councilmember Jane Prince, who spoke at the kickoff, applauded the students for working together to create a legacy. "These trees are going to last for decades and that will be one of your first legacies as you add to our urban forest," said Councilmember Prince.

The initiative was not merely an environmental effort but also a platform for students to engage in meaningful work and community service, while earning pay. The planting project is part of a larger workforce training program that introduces participants to green industry careers. Participating students have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized credentials such as the Minnesota Tree Inspector Certificate, administered through the University of Minnesota.

"Partnering with Tree Trust to provide Saint Paul youth with environmental job opportunities nurtures a sense of community that will grow as our trees do," said Saint Paul Parks and Recreation Director Andy Rodriguez. "Strengthening our urban canopy through tree planting not only provides shade and beauty but also serves as a powerful investment in the health of our cities, improving air quality, reducing heat, and fostering wildlife diversity."

About Tree Trust

Tree Trust, a nonprofit founded in 1976 and based in Saint Paul, Minnesota, focuses on transforming lives and landscapes. Tree Trust accomplishes this mission by providing meaningful opportunities for greening local communities through tree planting and offering youth valuable work skills and experience through practical job training, creating a brighter future of self-sufficiency. Learn more at www.treetrust.org.

CONTACT: Jared Smith, Executive Director | CEO

952-767-3880

SOURCE Tree Trust
STOCKHOLM, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandvik has signed an agreement to acquire esco GmbH engineering solutions consulting, a German-based supplier of software for power skiving, an important technology within gear machining. Esco's software solutions supports design, production and quality inspection in the main area of gear manufacturing. The company will be reported in Sandvik Coromant, a division within Sandvik Manufacturing and Machining Solutions.

Power skiving is a high-growth premium niche market, with strong underlying drivers such as the increasing electrification in the automotive sector. This shift is changing manufacturing requirements in the gear market, and power skiving offers high productivity and flexibility, and enables reduced cycle times compared to conventional machining methods.

"The acquisition of esco fits very well with our strategic focus to grow within key high-growth industry segments, in this case the area of gear machining for electric vehicles," says Stefan Widing, President and CEO of Sandvik.

Esco, founded in 1993, has around 17 employees and is headquartered in Aachen, Germany. In 2022, the company generated revenues of about SEK 14 million. The impact on Sandvik's EBITA margin and earnings per share will be limited.

Stockholm, October 26, 2023

Sandvik AB

For further information, contact Louise Tjeder, VP Investor relations, phone: +46 (0) 70782 6374 or Johannes Hellstrom, Press and Media Relations Manager, phone: +46 (0) 70721 1008.

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/208/3862414/2386646.pdf Sandvik strengthens position in electrical vehicles with acquisition of software supplier esco GmbH

SOURCE Sandvik
STOCKHOLM, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Fagerhult Group's near and long-term targets have now been validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The long-term target to become science-based net-zero is set to no later than 2045.

Energy-efficiency is high on the agenda to reach the climate goals and the lighting industry has a part to play. Lighting accounts for up to 15 per cent of global energy consumption and by using the latest smart lighting solutions, users can potentially reduce energy consumption by up to 90 per cent.

"We are very proud to have our targets validated and approved by the Science Based Targets initiative. This validation reaffirms our unwavering commitment to addressing climate change and ensures that our actions are grounded in science as well as consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement. We will follow up and report on our progress continuously in a transparent way," says Bodil Sonesson, CEO and President Fagerhult Group.

Fagerhult Group has set near and long-term goals to reduce direct and indirect GHG emissions. The near-term targets are set to reduce emissions by 70 per cent in Scope 1 and Scope 2, and by 30 per cent in Scope 3 by 2030, from the baseline year 2021. The Group has also set out a long-term science-based target to become net-zero by 2045.

"Being a Group with great passion and expertise, we are determined to work together to achieve our goal to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2045. We see a lot of innovative solutions and new materials across the Group, but we also know that we need to focus even more on the use phase and smart lighting. Almost 90 per cent of our emissions originate from the products being used. We have a very exciting journey ahead of us," says Bodil Sonesson.

Fagerhult Group's sustainability agenda "Positive Change for Better Living" is an integrated part of the business strategy and daily operations. It also defines the four focus areas with long-term ambitions and defined activities; Responsible relations, Responsible operations, Circular solutions and Knowledge leader.

About the Science Based Targets initiative

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a global body enabling businesses to set ambitious emissions reductions targets in line with the latest climate science. It is focused on accelerating companies across the world to halve emissions before 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions before 2050.

The initiative is a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments.

For more information, please contact:

Bodil Sonesson, President and CEO, +46 722 23 76 02, [email protected]

Michael Wood, CFO, +46 730 87 46 47, [email protected]

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1781/3863608/2389142.pdf SBTi approves Fagerhult Groupas net-zero science-based targets https://news.cision.com/fagerhult-group-ab/i/sbti-approval,c3232686 SBTi approval

SOURCE Fagerhult Group AB
JINAN, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently, the 15th ISRM International Congress on Rock Mechanics was held in Salzburg, Austria. The research results of the geotechnical engineering team of Shandong University, 'Fluid-solid coupling simulation test technology and application of major geological disasters in geotechnical engineering' won the only ISRM scientific and technological innovation award of the International Society of Rock Mechanics in 2023, adding new highlights.

Focusing on the major problems around the safe construction of tunnels and underground engineering and active prevention and control of disasters, the geotechnical engineering team of Shandong University has spent 15 years on scientific research and engineering practice, invented a similar material of fluid-solid coupling of underground engineering surrounding rock-groundwater-water storage structure.

The team independently developed the large-scale true triaxial fluid-solid coupling simulation test equipment of drilling and blasting method, innovated the fluid-solid coupling geological disaster simulation test system of tunneling machine method, invented a series of process groups such as complex geological test body construction, whole process excavation support and lining structure construction, developed a new test method of laser scanning-digital photography fusion and formed the fluid-solid coupling simulation test technology of geological disasters in the whole process of underground engineering construction, which provides support for the monitoring and early warning and active prevention and control design of major geological disasters.

The research results are widely used in railway, highway, water conservancy and hydropower, municipal and other fields. It has been successfully applied to the disaster control of key and difficult projects such as the Sichuan Chengdu-Lanzhou railway, Hubei Three Gorges overtopping dam expressway, Qingdao Jiaozhou Bay subsea tunnel, and Beijing-Shanghai expressway Jinan connection line, effectively promoting the progress of science and technology in the industry.

The International Society for Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering (ISRM) established the ISRM Science and Technology Awards, including two special awards: "The Science Achievement Award" and "The Technological Innovation Award". The award is reviewed every two years and the purpose is to recognize ISRM members who have made outstanding contributions to science and technology in the field of rock mechanics and rock engineering.

SOURCE Shandong University
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 27. EU leaders at the summit in Brussels called for "humanitarian pauses and the opening of humanitarian corridors in the Gaza Strip", a statement following the summit on the conflict in the Middle East, published by the press service of the European Council says, Trend reports.

EU leaders reportedly failed to reach ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

It was noted that during the summit deep concern was expressed about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and a call was made for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to ensure that assistance reaches all those in need, including humanitarian corridors and humanitarian pauses.

According to information, several EU countries insisted on publicly calling for a ceasefire, but no agreement was reached.
GUANGZHOU, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 134th China Import and Export Fair ("Canton Fair", "the Fair"), held in Guangzhou from October 15th to November 4th, has successfully attracted a total number of 129,000 overseas buyers, with nearly 70,000 come from countries and regions involved in the Belt and Road Initiative, over 65% increase over the same period last session. The three-phase exhibition featured 650 exhibitors from 43 nations and regions in its International Pavilion, around 60% of whom were from Belt and Road countries, earning high praise from both suppliers and buyers.

"Ninety percent of our company's external purchases are sourced from China, with guaranteed quality, delivery, and price. We have immense confidence in China's manufacturing capabilities," stated Sia Huaping, Chairman of SARAWAK CHINA TRADES IMPORTERS & EXPORTERS ASSOCIATION."This time, more than 80 members of our chamber are actively attending the fair."

The Canton Fair has become a hub for distinguished companies like Guangzhou Tiger Head Battery Group Co., Ltd., Guangdong Xinbao Electrical Appliances Holdings Co., Ltd. ("Xinbao"), and other prestigious firms who have set their sights on the flourishing "Belt and Road" market. Xinbao, in particular, has astutely designated a special exhibition section at the fair, meticulously tailored to cater to the specific needs of buyers originating from countries and regions deeply invested in the "Belt and Road" initiative. This sagacious move has successfully enticed a significant number of buyers seeking informative consultation.

Zhang Yifei, Xinbao's adept overseas project director, excitedly shared, "Aside from successfully finalizing numerous deals at the Canton Fair, our company is also actively expanding its international production bases, with the Indonesian factory now in full swing."

Moreover, Altinboga Gas Equipments, a prominent Turkish valve manufacturer, made a remarkable appearance at the Canton Fair International Pavilion, presenting an extensive selection of over 85 product categories. Hakan Yairal, the skilled foreign trade manager of Althinboga Gas Equipments, expressed, "The Canton Fair serves as our paramount exhibition, providing us with unmatched opportunities to negotiate with buyers from around the world."

The relationship between China and enterprises from countries along the "Belt and Road" has grown stronger at the Canton Fair, resulting in mutual benefits and positive outcomes. For more information about the 134th Canton Fair, please visit the official website of the Canton Fair https://www.cantonfair.org.cn/en-US/posts/646531331412942848, or contact: [email protected].

SOURCE Canton Fair
NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of FMC Corporation ("FMC" or the "Company") (NYSE: FMC). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether FMC and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On July 10, 2023, before the market opened, FMC, despite raising its full-year revenue guidance in May 2023, announced that it was cutting its revenue for the second quarter and the 2023 fiscal year. FMC announced that "the revised guidance is driven by substantially lower-than-expected volumes due to an abrupt and significant reduction in inventory by channel partners, which only became evident towards the end of May and continued through the remainder of the quarter[.]"

On this news, FMC's stock price fell $11.62 per share, or 11.14%, to close at $92.63 per share on July 10, 2023.

Then, on September 7, 2023, Blue Orca published a short report on FMC, alleging that "FMC has concealed from investors that it has suffered a recent string of stunning legal defeats around the globe that have enabled competitors to now launch competing generics at prices up to 80% below the price of FMC's flagship insecticide product" and that "[c]ontrary to the Company's claims, FMC's process patents to not protect its flagship product from generic competition."

On this news, FMC's stock price fell $6.09 per share, or 7.41%, to close at $76.10 on September 7, 2023.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of The Boeing Company ("Boeing" or the "Company") (NYSE: BA). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Boeing and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On August 23, 2023, Spirit Aerosystems Holdings, Inc. ("Spirit Aerosystems"), a key supplier of components for Boeing aircraft, issued a press release acknowledging "a quality issue involving elongated fastener holes on the aft pressure bulkhead on certain models of the 737 fuselage produced by Spirit AeroSystems." Spirit Aerosystems stated that it "has implemented changes to its manufacturing process to address this issue" and is "working closely with [Boeing] to address any impacted units within the production system and address any needed rework."

On this news, Boeing's stock price fell $11.27 per share, or 4.93% percent, to close at $217.31 on August 24, 2023.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
A Testament to the strength of its Intellectual Property Rights

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SkyBell Technologies, a pioneer in video doorbell and smart home security solutions, is pleased to announce a successful outcome in its recent patent infringement lawsuit against Vivint Inc. On Monday, Oct. 23, 2023, a federal jury in the Sherman Division of the Eastern District of Texas rendered its verdict, determining that Vivint Inc. willfully infringed upon two of SkyBell's patents, leading to a damage award of $45.4 million in favor of SkyBell's subsidiary, SB IP Holdings LLC. Notably, this case revolves around just two of the more than 150 patents that SkyBell proudly owns, encompassing innovations at the front door and broader home IoT arena. These groundbreaking patents provide homeowners the capacity to view their front door's entrance through smartphone apps and transmit video data seamlessly, setting a benchmark in the realm of video doorbell technology.

"This lawsuit underscored our commitment to principle, innovation, and the sanctity of intellectual property rights," remarked Giovanni Tomaselli, President of SkyBell Technologies. He continued, "We embarked on this legal journey to safeguard the intellectual achievements that have set SkyBell apart in the industry. The verdict is not just a fair and reasonable outcome for SkyBell, but a message to others in the security industry about the importance of honoring and respecting SkyBell's genuine innovation."

Desiree Mejia, Co-Founder and COO of SkyBell Technologies, expressed her thoughts on the recent verdict: "From the outset, SkyBell made a deliberate yet challenging decision to establish our business on a bedrock of robust intellectual property. While many peers diverted their resources solely to marketing, we consciously and significantly invested in IP. This outcome stands as a testament to the legal system recognizing and rewarding our core principals, even in the face of daunting competitive pressure."

During this intensive litigation, SkyBell was privileged to be represented by Cole Schotz, widely recognized in the area of intellectual property law. Their stellar reputation in the industry precedes them, and having such an esteemed team stand with us was both an honor and a pivotal element of our success. Their expertise guided us through the complexities of the case and also illuminated the profound value and strength of our intellectual property.

"Patents allow small companies to compete in markets with very large companies. SkyBell protected its business by developing and acquiring patents that protect its employees as well as its way of doing business. This verdict is a testament to the company and our laws that prevent others from practicing the inventions owned by SkyBell," remarked Gary Sorden, Member Cole Schotz P.C.

"For a smaller company to take on a large company in litigation it is no small feat. This litigation lasted 3 years and it is validation of the patents as well as SkyBell's belief in innovation," added Mr. Sorden.

This legal affirmation further strengthens SkyBell's position as a cornerstone in the modern home security landscape, particularly in the realm of video doorbell security systems. The judgment reinforces that our technology is not just innovative but pivotal, casting SkyBell as a foundational component in the home security world now and in the future.

As SkyBell looks ahead, this landmark ruling with respect to the U.S. Patent Nos. 9,485,478 and 10,674,120, serves as motivation to continue driving innovation, focusing on research and development, and fortifying its leadership in the video doorbell and smart home security sectors. "Our passion for pushing boundaries remains unabated. We're more committed than ever to leading the way in cutting-edge home security solutions," added Mr. Tomaselli.

For further information on SkyBell Technologies or to obtain comments about the lawsuit, please reach out to Tyler Gilbreth at [email protected] .

About SkyBell Technologies

SkyBell Technologies stands at the forefront of home security innovation, having pioneered the smart video doorbell security system. Our solutions are trusted by some of the world's leading home security companies. Boasting over 150 issued patents, SkyBell's cutting-edge intellectual property is set to drive the next generation of home security, automation, and Internet of Things (IoT), extending far beyond the front door. With more than two million professionally installed video doorbells, we are not just excited about our past accomplishments but also about the future possibilities for SkyBell and our partners.

Visit www.skybell.com for more information.

Media Contact:

Tyler Gilbreth

SkyBell Technologies, Inc.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 949-490-2357

About Cole Schotz P.C.

We are a coalition of over 170 attorneys  a curated collection of legal talent that works together to create a gallery of experience that we lend to the benefit of our clients. We work with businesses, large and small, as well as select individuals, many of whom continue to work with the firm for decades. Our clients turn to us to execute on their business goals with our distinct confidence and legal dexterity. As an AmLaw 200 firm with nationwide representations and a global reach, we represent clients in connection with an array of legal matters. Since 2019 the Intellectual Property practice at Cole Schotz has grown significantly, including expanding its presence in Texas.

Visit www.coleschotz.com for more information.

Media Contact:

Jesse Dungan

Infinite Global

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 415-732-7881

SOURCE SkyBell Technologies Inc
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) has released 276 new part numbers in its October new number announcement. This most recent release provides new coverage in 113 distinct product categories and 118 part numbers for 2022, 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles.

Standard and Four Seasons continue to expand their industry-leading programs for hybrid and electric vehicles. Post this This most recent release provides new coverage in 113 distinct product categories and 118 part numbers for 2022, 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles. (PRNewsfoto/Standard Motor Products, Inc.)

Standard and Four Seasons continue to expand their industry-leading programs for hybrid and electric vehicles. Standard's latest additions include Park Assist Sensors for the 2022-17 Toyota Prius Prime and Canister Purge Solenoids for the 2022-18 Lexus ES300h. Four Seasons released Hose Assemblies for hybrid vehicles such as the 2022-18 Honda Accord and electric vehicles including the 2021-17 Chevrolet Bolt. Brushless Blower Motors have been introduced for the 2022-16 Mercedes C-Class Hybrid, and Evaporators are now available for the 2022-2020 Ford Interceptor Utility and Lincoln Aviator Hybrid.

Internal combustion engines are evolving to improve fuel economy while reducing emissions, and Standard is continually expanding popular categories for these vehicles. The Standard Variable Valve Timing (VVT) program has grown with the introduction of new Solenoids, Sprockets and Oil Control Valves, while Turbochargers and related components have been released for General Motors, Nissan, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. Emission control products including Fuel Vapor Canisters, EGR Tubes, EGR Valves, Engine Crankcase Breather Hoses and PCV Valves were also added.

Powertrain-Neutral categories such as Active Grille Shutters and Park Assist Sensors represent repair opportunities which didn't exist a few years ago. Active Grille Shutter Assemblies have been introduced for new Ford and Chrysler applications, and Active Grille Shutter Actuators are new for Ford vehicles through model-year 2022. Fourteen Park Assist Sensors have also been added covering popular vehicles like the 2021-20 Cadillac CT5 and 2021-14 Infiniti Q50. Standard has also introduced eighteen new ABS Speed Sensors covering 5 million vehicles.

Jack Ramsey, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, SMP, stated, "Our October new number announcement provides expansion in over 100 product categories, offering new coverage for countless vehicles in operation. We are pleased to offer this level of coverage to our trusted partners."

Four Seasons has introduced 107 new part numbers, including 63 new Hose Assemblies with domestic and import coverage for over 7 million vehicles in operation, including the 2022-20 Subaru Legacy and Outback and the 2023-20 Ford Transit. New Blower Motors have been introduced for popular vehicles like the 2022-18 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Additional newly released components include Desiccant Bags for 2023-17 RAM ProMasters and Reman Compressors for 1.1 million Ford and Lincoln SUVs.

All new applications are listed in the catalogs found at StandardBrand.com and 4S.com, and in electronic catalog providers.

About SMP

With over 100 years in business, Standard Motor Products, Inc. is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of premium automotive replacement parts utilized in the maintenance, repair and service of vehicles in the automotive aftermarket industry. In addition, SMP continues to increase its supplier capabilities with a complementary focus on specialized original equipment parts for manufacturers across multiple industries such as agriculture, heavy duty, and construction equipment. SMP sells its products primarily to automotive aftermarket retailers, program distribution groups, warehouse distributors, original equipment manufacturers and original equipment service part operations in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, Mexico and other Latin American countries. For more information, download the SMP Parts App or visit SMPcorp.com.

SOURCE Standard Motor Products, Inc
United to fly non-stop to 38 transatlantic cities, including the first and only direct flight between U.S. and Faro, Portugal and new flights to Reykjavik, Brussels, Rome and Malaga  plus service to popular destinations like Lisbon, Barcelona, Rome, Nice, Milan and Naples start up to two months earlier

More options to more places give customers plenty of choices - and time - to visit Europe next year

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- United builds on its leading transatlantic network with the debut of its largest-ever summer 2024 schedule  which includes the first and only non-stop flight between New York/Newark-Faro, Portugal* and new flights to Reykjavik*, Brussels, Rome and Malaga. The airline also brings back nine of its most popular seasonal routes to Portugal, Italy, France and Spain up to two months early to give customers more time and options to explore Europe.

United flies to more transatlantic destinations than all other U.S. airlines and continues to be the only airline to directly connect the U.S. with Dubrovnik, Malaga, Mallorca and Tenerife.

"United has the most flights to the most destinations across the Atlantic and we're now giving our customers even more flexibility and choice when planning their trips abroad," said Patrick Quayle, United's senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. "Whether customers are looking to travel during peak season or shoulder season, visit the most popular tourism destinations or discover a hidden gem, the scope and scale of our network makes United the easy choice for transatlantic travel."

Tickets for United's new summer 2024 flights are on sale now at United.com and include:

New Service to Faro, Portugal

Beginning May 24, United will be the first and only airline to directly connect the United States and Faro, Portugal, with its new service from New York/Newark. The new flight will make it easy for U.S. customers to visit Portugal's Algarve region, home to some of the country's most scenic beaches and striking historic sites. The flight will operate four times a week on a Boeing 757-200. United currently serves more destinations in Portugal than all U.S. carriers with its existing year-round service between New York/Newark-Lisbon, as well as seasonal service between Washington/Dulles-Lisbon, New York/Newark-Porto and New York/Newark-Ponta Delgada, Azores.

New Flights to Reykjavik, Rome, Brussels and Malaga

On May 23, United will resume seasonal flying between Reykjavik and New York/Newark for the first time since summer 2022. The flight will operate daily on a Boeing 757-200. Additionally, United will add flights to some of the most popular destinations in Europe, including a second daily frequency between New York/Newark-Brussels, starting March 30 on a Boeing 757-200, and a second daily frequency between Washington/Dulles-Rome, starting May 23 on a Boeing 767-300. Moreover, United will increase New York/Newark-Malaga to daily service on a Boeing 757-200 and will start on May 2.

Earlier Starts to Seasonal Service

While transatlantic summer travel demand remains at an all-time high, United has increasingly seen customers seek out spring shoulder season getaways. Last spring**, United flew 33% more customers across the Atlantic than in 2022, and the airline anticipates the demand will only continue to grow in spring 2024. To give customers more time and options to visit Europe, the airline is resuming several of its most popular routes early, including:

Washington Dulles  Lisbon, Portugal  starting February 15

 starting Washington Dulles  Barcelona, Spain  starting February 15

 starting Washington Dulles  Rome, Italy  starting February 15

 starting New York / Newark  Nice, France  starting March 30

/   starting Chicago /O'Hare  Rome, Italy  starting March 30

/O'Hare   starting Chicago O'Hare  Milan, Italy  starting March 30

 starting New York / Newark  Naples, Italy  starting April 5

/   starting New York / Newark  Malaga  starting May 2

/   starting San Francisco  Rome, Italy  starting May 2

Continued Growth in Asia-Pacific and Latin America

Next summer, United's network across the Pacific will grow more than 30% with non-stop service to 15 destinations  including the airline's newest routes between San Francisco-Manila and San Francisco-Beijing. The airline will also grow its Latin American schedule by 10% next summer, extending some of its newest and most popular routes into the summer season. Highlights include new service between Denver-San Juan; Denver-Montego Bay; New York/Newark-Barbados and New York/Newark-Curacao.

*Flight subject to government approval

** Spring defined as March 1-May 31

About United

At United, Good Leads The Way. With U.S. hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., United operates the most comprehensive global route network among North American carriers, and is now the largest airline in the world as measured by available seat miles. For more about how to join the United team, please visit www.united.com/careers and more information about the company is at www.united.com. United Airlines Holdings, Inc., the parent company of United Airlines, Inc., is traded on the Nasdaq under the symbol "UAL".

SOURCE United Airlines
DEYANG, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sungrow, the global leading inverter and energy storage system supplier, announced that it teamed up with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) again this year to support wildlife habitat restoration and biodiversity protection at Panda National Park in Deyang, China's Sichuan province.

Deyang Panda National Park not only houses the giant panda, but it's also home to many other animal species. Unfortunately, natural disasters, including earthquakes, landslides, and debris flow may pose challenges to them.

Tracing back to 2022, Sungrow announced its partnership with TNC to plant bamboo and trees covering over 33 hectares in five years. This year, Sungrow planned to contribute more: planting another 6.67 hectares of bamboo and trees, and building 10 artificial caves for wildlife such as pandas. As an essential part of the Sungrow Forest Program, these efforts in Deyang are a demonstration of the local wildlife habitat restoration.

As a dedicated global citizen with robust corporate responsibility initiatives, Sungrow aligns with UNGC principles of biodiversity target-setting. Footprints of the Sungrow Forest Program span across the world, especially in Europe, the UAE, and India, to contribute to the ecological construction of a more sustainable world.

About Sungrow

Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd. ("Sungrow") is the world's most bankable inverter brand with over 405 GW installed worldwide as of June 2023. Founded in 1997 by University Professor Cao Renxian, Sungrow is a leader in the research and development of solar inverters with the largest dedicated R&D team in the industry and a broad product portfolio offering PV inverter solutions and energy storage systems for utility-scale, commercial & industrial, and residential applications, as well as internationally recognized floating PV plant solutions, NEV driving solutions, EV charging solutions and renewable hydrogen production systems. With a strong 26-year track record in the PV space, Sungrow products power over 150 countries worldwide. For more information about Sungrow, visit www.sungrowpower.com.

SOURCE Sungrow Power Supply Co., Ltd.
BANGALORE, India, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Textile Fluorine-Free Water Repellent Market is Segmented by Type (Acrylic Acid Type, Polyurethane Type, Paraffin Wax Type), by Application (Swimwear and Intimates, Apparel, Technical Fabrics, Home Textiles, Protective Wear): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2029.

The Global Textile Fluorine-Free Water Repellent Market is projected to reach USD 605.1 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 348.2 Million in 2022, with a CAGR of 7.9% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

Major Factors Driving the Growth of Textile Fluorine-Free Water Repellent Market

Because of better performance, regulatory changes, and worries about the health and environmental effects of traditional fluorine-based repellents, textile fluorine-free water repellents have become increasingly popular in recent years. These elements, along with affordability, should propel the textile fluorine-free water-repellent industry even further.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF TEXTILE FLUORINE-FREE WATER REPELLENT MARKET

A move towards more environmentally friendly textile treatments has been spurred by the increased public awareness of environmental issues. Fluorine-free textile water repellents are eco-friendly substitutes that help lessen the environmental impact of textile production and clothing wear, making them a popular option among environmentally aware customers. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are frequently present in conventional repellents, are subject to increased laws and limits, which have forced textile makers to embrace fluorine-free alternatives in order to meet these new standards. The use of textile water repellents free of fluorine is now highly encouraged as a result.

Consumers and textile sector employees are equally concerned about the possible health problems linked to PFAS. Manufacturers are therefore looking for safer substitutes, and water repellents for textiles without fluorine are seen to be a healthier option. Technological developments in textile fluorine-free water repellents have produced goods that function on par with those containing fluorine. Their increased efficacy has made them a more alluring choice for a number of industries, such as sportswear and outdoor equipment.

Customers are increasingly pickier about the goods they buy, favoring sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions in particular. This customer mood drives manufacturers to adopt these solutions by driving the demand for fabrics treated with fluorine-free water repellents.

Manufacturers may now produce textile fluorine-free water repellents at a lower cost as the technology behind them advances. Wider usage in a variety of textile applicationsfrom apparel to industrial materialshas been made possible by this. Globally, textiles that are fluorine-free water repellent are becoming increasingly important as a result of the discourse on sustainability and environmental conservation on a worldwide scale. These items have become a global industry trend as a result of the increased awareness that has led to their growth in diverse countries.

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TEXTILE FLUORINE-FREE WATER REPELLENT MARKET SHARE

In the world market for waterproof textiles, polyurethane is at the top. Thick layer coatings of polyurethane improve fabric performance and make materials perfect for wind and waterproof outerwear. Furthermore, polyurethane is heat-resistant and solvent-free, producing no toxic byproducts. In addition, polytetrafluoroethylene is lightweight, very flexible, strong against abrasion, and has a high tensile strength.

Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the Textile Fluorine-Free water-repellent market based on region.

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Key Companies:

Huntsman

AGC

Chermous

Archroma

Dymatic

Zhejiang Transfar Chemicals

Rudolf GmbH

DyStar

Taiwanfluoro

Tanatex Chemicals

Zschimmer & Schwarz

Fibrochem Advanced Materials ( Shanghai ) Co

) Co Heiq

Evonik

Sarex

Go Yen Chemical

Pulcra Chemicals GmbH

ORCO

Zhejiang Kefeng

Zhuhai Huada WholeWin Chemical

Zhejiang Wellwin

LeMan Polymer

Liansheng Chemistry

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SIMILAR REPORTS

- Water Repellant Agent market is projected to grow from USD 876.4 million in 2023 to USD 1274.5 million by 2029, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.4% during the forecast period.

- Water Repellent Textile Market

- Functional Textile Finishing Agents market size is estimated to be worth USD 2821.9 million in 2022 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 3529.6 million by 2028 with a CAGR of 3.8% during the review period.

- Water Repellent Fabrics Market

- Durable Water Repellent Market

- Eco-friendly Fluorine Free Water Repellent Market

- Fluorochemical Oil and Water Repellent Market

- Silicon Organic Water Repellent Market

- Non-fluorinated Water Repellent Market

- Water Repellent Cloth Market

- Durable Water Repellent for Fabrics Market

- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Market was valued at USD 4752.2 million in 2022, and it is anticipated to reach USD 6589.9 million by 2028, registering a CAGR of about 5.6% during the forecast period (20222028).

- Oily Fluorine-Free Water Repellent Market

- Water Repellent Textile Market

- Textile Sizing Chemicals Market

- Chemical Animal Repellent market is projected to reach USD 66 million in 2029, increasing from USD 46 million in 2022, with the CAGR of 3.8% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- Healthcare Fabrics market was valued at USD 9972 million in 2022, and it is anticipated to reach USD 13590 million by 2028, registering a CAGR of about 5.3% during the forecast period (20232028).

- Technical textile market was valued at USD 201.2 billion in 2019, and is projected to reach USD 274.1 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2020 to 2027.

- Specialty Nylon market is projected to reach USD 4214.2 million in 2029, increasing from USD 2936 million in 2022, with a CAGR of 5.2% during the period of 2023 to 2029.

- Nylon Particles Market

- Nylon 12 market was valued at USD 1325.5 million in 2022 and is anticipated to reach USD 1472.9 million by 2029, witnessing a CAGR of 1.5% during the forecast period 2023-2029.

Click here to see related reports on Textile Fluorine-Free Water Repellent

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SOURCE Valuates Reports
Award-winning price generating software company partnered with Service World Expo for 2023 event

DALTON, Ga., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The New Flat Rate, the No. 1 price generating software for home service contractors, provided contractors with high level business training and strategies for a strong launching pad into 2024 during their annual Business Uncensored event.

Different from the norm, Business Uncensored partnered with Service World Expo to provide a joint event for contractors pursuing excellence in their local markets.

The New Flat Rate provided contractors with high level business training and strategies for a strong launching pad into 2024 during their annual Business Uncensored event.

"This year, we had a fantastic opportunity to partner with Service World Expo to shake things up and make both events bigger and better," said Danielle Putnam, president of The New Flat Rate. "With their busy schedules, contractors do not have the time to attend multiple events throughout the year. With that said, attending events is key to helping contractors develop those positive habits that create results. Having these two major events together made it easier for them to attend both and get the education they needed without sacrificing additional travel hours and time out of the office."

"Synergistic partnerships provide pathways for growth that propel everyone further faster. Together, we were able to provide more content, a more robust schedule and a new stage with a fresh voice to the existing Service World Expo universe."

One key benefit for Business Uncensored attendees was the Service World Expo Hall, which provided a plethora of vendors and visibility into the latest technologies.

"One of the major positives of this year's event was growth for Business Uncensored," Putnam said. "We were able to provide incredible value to the Business Uncensored world by giving past attendees a new expo hall with access to more of the vendors they need to best serve their business. There were multiple members who told us they had the opportunity to speak with vendors and learn about things they didn't know were available for the service they were paying for."

Those who attended the event were treated to discussions from a full roster of speakers that included Putnam; Matt Koop, Vice President of The New Flat Rate; Rodney Koop, Founder of The New Flat Rate; Tersh Blissett and Joshua Crouch of Service Business Mastery Podcast; Tom Peregrino, President of Service Nation; Steve Moon, President of Moon Services Inc.; Ben Middleton, National Sales Training Manager at Daikin Comfort Technologies; and Crystal Williams, Founder and Creative Strategist at Lemon Seed Marketing. In addition, Matthew Bratsis, VP of OPTIMUS Financing, led a panel of contractors which included: Jonathan Perez, Rodney Dunlap and Suzanne Wedeven.

Discussion topics covered a wide range of areas that included:

The Disruption of AI in the Trades: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

The Service Call Lifecycle

From Chaos to Clarity: Unleashing the Secrets to Business Success

The CEO's Targets to Success: Achieving More in Less Time

Oh No! To Pro: How to Train Your Tech to Become Master Craftsmen

And much more.

"While we hosted the event with Service World Expo, it was also important to our members to maintain that non-competitive environment that encourages collaboration," said Putnam. "So, we were able to host a full-day process development workshop the day before Service World Expo opened to provide a space for contractors who wanted to go a step further and devote more time to their business."

For more information about The New Flat Rate, please visit https://thenewflatrate.com/.

About The New Flat Rate

The New Flat Rate, Inc. pioneered the first menu pricing system for in-home service providers which has doubled and tripled the average service ticket for contractors across the United States and Canada. Targeting HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical Service and Repair contractors, each market-specific edition is designed to do the bundling and upselling for technicians by providing hundreds of service, repair and equipment replacement "menus," each with up to five straightforward options consumers can choose. Voted No. 1 retail pricing generator during the 2021 HARDI conference, The New Flat Rate develops processes to eliminate objections and lower sales resistance for service technicians. For more information, visit http://thenewflatrate.com/ or call 706-259-8892.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

(865) 977-1973

hripley@ripleypr.com

SOURCE The New Flat Rate
Author: Dr Tess Skryme, Senior Technology Analyst at IDTechEx

CAMBRIDGE, England, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tunneling magneto resistance sensors are rapidly disrupting the automotive and wearables industry. These tiny sensors leverage quantum phenomena to provide a performance edge over classical incumbents, including industry mainstays such as Hall effect sensors. Although they don't depend on the more exciting effects such as superposition and entanglement, in this article, IDTechEx highlights the lessons to be learned from the success of TMR sensors in the emerging quantum sensor market.

Sensitivity is the key to unlocking commercial value

Market Size vs. CAGR plot. Outlook for quantum sensors 2024-2034. Vertical agnostic devices predicted to obtain higher volume sales.

TMR sensors use quantum tunneling for highly sensitive measurements of magnetic field. They are constructed from a sandwich of thin layers of ferromagnet and nanometer-thick insulator. Thanks to quantum, the probability of electrons tunneling through these layers has a strong dependence on external fields  both magnetic and electric. TMR sensors can be integrated into circuits that exhibit an easily measurable change in voltage or resistance and detect magnetic fields hundreds of times smaller than established incumbents.

Many other quantum sensing technologies are in development, including even more magnetic field sensors, as well as clocks, gravimeters, gyroscopes, and photodetectors. In each instance, these technologies have the potential to offer orders of magnitude increases in sensitivity and, therefore, as a group, are likely to prove highly disruptive to the existing sensor market.

The importance of optimized SWAP-C

Sensitivity isn't the only parameter of importance in the sensor market. Optimizing the size, weight, power, and cost, or SWAP-C, is also paramount. For TMR sensors, reduced power consumption compared to Hall sensors has proved crucial in tempting OEMs to switch. This reflects demand across the IoT space for lower power devices, allowing them to operate for longer and ultimately make their operation more sustainable from a maintenance and environmental perspective.

The relative simplicity of TMR sensor architecture has allowed for highly optimized SWAP-C, as they can be manufactured using CMOS techniques in established semiconductor foundries. The miniaturization of TMR sensors not only competes with more established solutions but, in many instances, exceeds it. Yet, this will likely prove far more challenging for the next generation of quantum sensors. The components and infrastructure required to contain solutions based on entanglement and superposition are far more complex than tunneling. Scalable manufacture of vapor cells, lasers, nitrogen-vacancy centers, and more remains a high-value technical challenge for the quantum technology industry to solve.

The advantage of use-case diversity

The applications of TMR sensors for wake-up, angle and position sensing, and remote current sensing have applications in multiple industry verticals. Many wearable and medical devices depend on wake-up functionality, including continuous glucose monitors for diabetes management and hermetically sealed digital pills. Remote sensing and temperature robustness offer enhanced safety for monitoring within both electric vehicles and solar energy systems. As for position and angle sensing, there are almost limitless uses, but with notable value for wind-turbine power optimization, robotics, and factory optimization.

The diversity of use cases and, therefore, industries addressable with TMR technology provides an advantage in scaling up production. While new sensors may be able to compete on sensitivity, size, and power  limited economies of scale upon commercialization almost always leads to an initial compromise on cost. Finding early adopters in high-value industries allows the runway to increase manufacturing capacity before entering higher-volume markets. This has arguably been the case for TMR sensing, using a sub-set of the electric vehicle market as a springboard for consumer electronics. The success of this approach is evidenced by the recent activity of leading players in the TMR sensor industry  with TDK doubling their production capacity and Crocus surpassing 100-million-unit sales.

Market Size vs. CAGR plot. Outlook for quantum sensors 2024-2034. Vertical agnostic devices predicted to obtain higher volume sales.

IDTechEx predicts that vertical agnosticism will likely also pay off for more complex devices in the quantum sensor market. Remaining use-case specific can result in a stalemate on cost optimization and could become a challenge for certain devices such as gravimeters, where underground mapping is the only clear killer application. Yet for atomic clocks and quantum gyroscopes, there are already indicators of future adoption for precision navigation and timing into the aerospace, automotive, finance, and even consumer electronics markets. It may well be that diversity of application is an essential driver for the long-term commercial success of these quantum sensors over others.

Outlook and conclusion

TMR sensors are adding commercial value in multiple industries through high sensitivity and optimized size, weight, and power consumption. This technology is an example of how quantum effects can be leveraged to disrupt the market for classical sensors. Although admittedly a relatively simple case, developers of more advanced quantum sensors will benefit from developing solutions with a similar package of qualities. Beyond this, it is perhaps also a lesson that relying on the use of 'quantum' is insufficient as a marketing tool on its own.

For more information on the commercial outlook for all the sensor technology mentioned in this article, including twenty-year market forecasts, see IDTechEx's latest report on the Quantum Sensor Market, "Quantum Sensors Market 2024-2044 " . To find out more about this report please visit www.IDTechEx.com/QuantumSensors. Find coverage of related topics in IDTechEx reports on Quantum Computers, Wearable Technology and Electric Vehicles at www.IDTechEx.com/Research.

About IDTechEx

IDTechEx guides your strategic business decisions through its Research, Subscription and Consultancy products, helping you profit from emerging technologies. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit www.IDTechEx.com.

Images download:

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Media Contact:

Lucy Rogers

Sales and Marketing Administrator

[email protected]

+44(0)1223 812300

Social Media Links:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/IDTechEx

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/IDTechEx

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/478371/IDTechEx_Logo.jpg

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258480/Quantum_Sensor_Market_Size_IDTechEx.jpg

SOURCE IDTechEx
BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 26. Trilateral cooperation with Azerbaijan is important for the export of Turkmen gas to the global markets, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, Trend reports.

He has made the remark during a joint press conference with his Turkmen counterpart Sardar Berdymakhmedov in Ankara.

Erdogan noted that the three countries are committed to contributing to energy security through this cooperation.

"During our meeting, we shared our views on improving the middle West-East corridor passing through the Caspian Sea. We saw that Turkmenistan and Turkiye have the same view on many issues," he said.

The President also noted that Turkiye wants Turkmenistan, which has observer status within the Organization of Turkic States, to become a full member of the organization
INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, PAXAFE, a leading B2B software innovator in supply chain risk management, proudly announces its strategic partnership with Brady Corporation's subsidiary, Transposafe, a foremost global leader in supply chain security.

This commercial engagement combines PAXAFE's supply chain visibility and artificial intelligence (AI) expertise in cold chain risk and prediction with Transposafe's leadership in global distribution, specialized packaging and product security.

Brady Corporation / Transposafe Selects PAXAFE For Enhanced Supply Chain Visibility and Advanced Risk Management

Industries across the board  from pharmaceuticals and Food & Beverage, to transportation & logistics  are implementing real-time IoT devices to provide product location and condition data in near real-time.

However, the challenge lies in converting these data into actionable insights. Contextualizing data requires substantial investment from manufacturers, their service providers and industry consultants. Operationalizing track and trace data is laborious and expensive.

In alliance with PAXAFE, Transposafe is introducing a holistic solution tailored to any industry's most pressing shipments, that provides valuable insights and tangible ROI for supply chain leaders, quality managers and digital transformation heads. This collaborative approach enables customers to anticipate, counteract, and resolve potential issues before they even materialize.

Mario Gijsel, EMEA Transposafe sales manager explained: "Collaboration with Paxafe enhances our commitment to supply chain security. Besides our own developments, Transposafe also embraces innovation through partnership, providing a comprehensive range of solutions. Together, we empower our customers to track packages beyond expectations, securing the journey of their goods with precision."

Ivan Castro, PAXAFE's Head of Growth, noted: "Previously, clients would send shipments with a blind hope that their products would arrive both timely and intact. With live shipment tracking and our industry-recognized risk management platform, customers can tailor their investment  ensuring optimal protection, seasonally-appropriate packaging, and engaging only the most reliable network partners."

About PAXAFE:

PAXAFE is a B2B risk-management software provider that enables cold chain manufacturers and service providers to extract strategic value and operational insights from their visibility investments.

PAXAFE's B2B SaaS platform  CONTXT  is a device-agnostic risk-management platform that reduces product loss, improves operational efficiency, and optimizes decision-making for perishable shippers and service providers. PAXAFE contextualizes active and passive visibility data, quantifies risk, and predicts OTIF adverse events.

PAXAFE works with some of the world's leading Life Science manufacturers and service providers and is backed by leading venture capital and corporate venture funds, including Northwestern Mutual, Greenlight Reinsurance, Ubiquity Ventures, Venture53, and Jett McCandless of Project44.

About Transposafe:

Founded in The Netherlands in 1991, acquired by Brady Corporation in 2007, Transposafe has been a safety & supply chain solutions provider for over 30 years. Dedication to their customer allows them to understand challenges and problems in their customer's supply chain from A to Z. They use their knowledge to implement customized solutions to ensure and optimize safety and security in the supply chain. More information is available on the Internet at www.transposafe.com. Transposafe's products protect and identify valuable consignments, and is a substantive addition to Brady's products that identify and protect premises, products and people.

Contact:

Ilya Preston

812-344-0058

[email protected]

SOURCE PAXAFE, Inc.
--Series A proceeds fund advancement of the company's lead program through clinical proof-of-concept study in atopic dermatitis and progression of broader precision I&I pipeline--

--Pipeline strategy to prosecute genetically validated targets linked to monogenic diseases with functional antibodies for precision populations across multiple indications--

WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Triveni Bio Inc., a biotech company pioneering a genetics-informed precision medicine approach to develop functional antibodies for the treatment of I&I disorders, today announced a $92 million series A financing co-led by Atlas Venture and Cormorant Asset Management, with participation from OrbiMed, the private equity business of Viking Global Investors, Invus, Polaris Partners, Alexandria Venture Investments, and other investors.

Triveni Bio's lead antibody program (TRIV-509) targets kallikreins 5 and 7 (KLK5/7), promising targets for the treatment of atopic dermatitis, asthma, and other I&I indications. "TRIV-509 works via a unique mechanism that directly impacts barrier dysfunction, inflammation, and itch. Novel therapeutic approaches for I&I diseases are much needed, especially for atopic dermatitis patients who generally have an inadequate response to Th2-targeted therapies," said Jennifer Dovey, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer of Triveni Bio.

The financing will support the advancement of TRIV-509 from preclinical development to a Phase 2a clinical trial and fuel a pipeline of novel antibodies with two additional development candidate nominations expected in 2024.

"We are grateful for the support of our investors who understand the upfront benefit of leveraging human genetics  especially learnings from rare Mendelian forms of disease  to expose novel drug targets relevant across multiple common diseases with shared traits," said industry veteran Vishal Patel, Ph.D., who joined Triveni Bio as Chief Executive Officer. "Triveni Bio is at a key inflection point as we transition into a clinical stage company with a compelling therapeutic pipeline and talented team."

Triveni Bio is the result of a merger between Amagma Therapeutics, which was founded by Tillman Gerngross, Ph.D. and Leonard Zon, M.D. with funding from Polaris; and Modify Therapeutics, which was founded and seeded by Atlas.

"The teams saw an opportunity to bridge highly complementary talent, technologies, and approaches to create a data-driven precision medicine company," said Jean-Francois Formela, M.D., partner at Atlas Venture and Board Chair of Triveni Bio.

"We are excited to co-lead this round alongside Atlas and other committed investors. We look forward to working with the Triveni team to bring novel and highly promising biological therapies to patients suffering from inflammatory disorders," said Raymond Kelleher, M.D., Ph.D., Managing Director at Cormorant.

Triveni Bio's data platform leverages both public and private datasets to identify novel genetically validated disease nodes, predict and stratify patient subpopulations, and provide novel insights into disease mechanisms  achieved in part through a collaboration with Nashville Biosciences.

About Triveni Bio

Triveni Bio is a biotech company pioneering a genetics-informed precision medicine approach to develop functional antibodies for the treatment of I&I disorders. The company's approach establishes proof-of-concept at the earliest stages of drug development. Through a strong understanding of genetics and mechanistic biology, our pipeline is powered for indication expansion where we know we can have the most impact. To learn more, visit www.triveni.bio.

SOURCE Triveni Bio
Plant Power Fast Food launches the new Hippie Patty and Sweet Potato Fries on World Vegan Day 2023

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Plant Power Fast Food proudly introduces its latest culinary creation, the Hippie Patty, just in time for World Vegan Day on November 1st. The patty harkens back to the early days of vegetarianism and veganism with rustic, simple ingredients, including black beans, poblano peppers, chipotle peppers, roasted cashews, fresh garlic, and onions. Plant Power Fast Food is also introducing vitamin A and fiber packed crispy Sweet Potato Fries.

The patty can be substituted in any of the chain's eight burger options. And when paired with the new crispy Sweet Potato Fries, it's a meal that's warming and comforting.

Founder of Plant Power Fast Food, Zach Vouga, shares his enthusiasm and waxes nostalgic for the new patty. Zach states, "In my school days, black bean patties were my lifeline and epitomized veganism for many of us as they represented a delicious and savory alternative to the high-fat and cholesterol beef burgers."

As this video illustrates, the new Hippie Patty is also a nod to groovier times when the vegan movement was considered counter culture and still in its infancy. While recent "meatier" protein alternatives have introduced a broader audience to veganism, it has also somewhat overshadowed the earthy, genuine flavors of traditional veggie burgers.

"The Hippie Patty is our love letter to those early vegan days," Vouga adds, "it's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest foods like vegetables, legumes, nuts and herbs pack the most powerful punch."

Both the Hippie Patty and Sweet Potato Fries will be available in all locations starting November 1, 2023.

ABOUT PLANT POWER FAST FOOD

Founded in 2016 the Plant Power Restaurant Group, LLC is a privately held company headquartered in San Diego, CA. The company aims to transform the fast food industry by providing delicious, plant-based options of the food people know and love. The company is committed to delivering convenient, satisfying plant-based options without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Visit plantpowerfastfood.com to learn more about the company's sustainability mission, vision, and menu.

HIPPIE PATTY VIDEO

PHOTOS

LOGO

Contact:

Jim Amos, Scout 22

T: (818) 216-9122

E: [email protected]

SOURCE Plant Power Fast Food
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As a little girl, Rana Clark only had one career goal: to be a soldier. So, in 2005, at age 20, she made her dream come true and joined the U.S. Army. However, Rana sustained multiple traumas in basic training and still copes with the aftermath of breaking her hips in a severe fall and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from a sexual assault.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9174056-wounded-warrior-project-women-warriors-rana-clark/

The Women Warriors Summit focused on advocacy efforts to meet the needs of women veterans highlighted in WWPs 2023 Women Warriors Report. Veteran Champions Change to Support Fellow Women Warriors

Rana's military career was cut short. She faced the challenge of reintegration into civilian life as a changed woman and a future of uncertainty.

Rana is not alone.

Women veterans are the fastest-growing population in military and veteran communities and face unique experiences and challenges than their male counterparts. Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) created the Women Warriors Initiative to understand these challenges better and empower the women it serves.

The 2023 Women Warriors Report highlights obstacles women veterans like Rana face after service, including more difficulty accessing health care, transitioning to civilian life, ensuring financial stability, higher rates for certain mental health conditions, and loneliness.

Still, women warriors remain resilient.

The lasting effects of both traumas persist throughout Rana's life, but she uses them to fuel a new mission. Through WWP, Rana shares her stories and connects with other veterans, but when she learned of WWP's advocacy efforts, she found another way to serve.

In September 2023, Rana made her third trip to Washington, DC, with more than 50 other women warriors to attend the 2023 Women Warriors Summit. There she met with legislators to address the report's findings and championed legislative changes that will improve care for women warriors.

Making Your Voice Heard

WWP's mission is to honor and empower wounded, injured, or ill post-9/11 service members, veterans, and their families through life-changing programs and services. WWP advocates for veteran policies and initiatives that make a real difference, improving the lives of millions of veterans, family members, and caregivers.

Through Operation Advocacy, WWP offers opportunities for warriors to have a voice on issues. For instance, Warrior Advocacy Leaders, like Rana, meet with Congressional leaders to advocate for legislation to improve services and support for veterans.

"It's important that we all band together because we're so much stronger when we're together," Rana said.

WWP's advocacy efforts have included toxic exposure, mental health, and women veterans. Rana encourages other warriors to get involved and recognize the power of their voices. Someone can read about veteran issues, but hearing it directly from a service member or veteran can carry a lot of weight  and there is strength in numbers.

By attending the summits in Washington and addressing her local and state legislators about veteran issues, Rana feels like advocacy has given her back the purpose she was seeking when she first joined the Army.

"I've always had a heart for my community. That's why I wanted to be in the military  because I wanted to serve," Rana said. "I felt like this was a really good opportunity for me to do that again.

"I'm very proud to be a part of the Wounded Warrior Project's advocacy process," Rana said. "It is a humbling experience to go and to just walk those historic halls and just feel like if I leave this Earth tomorrow, I can at least say that I attempted to make and leave my impact on this world."

Learn more about WWP's legislative priorities.

About Wounded Warrior Project

Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers  helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project
SEATTLE, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Poison Center (WAPC), Washington's free resource for medical inquiries related to medications, poisons, and drug overdoses, had the honor of hosting Governor Jay Inslee and First Spouse Trudi Inslee on October 23. The visit provided on opportunity for the Governor and First Spouse to witness the WAPC's invaluable services firsthand and discuss its role in addressing Washington's opioid crisis.

Governor Inslee holding naloxone nasal spray. Photo credited to Jim Kopriva with the Office of Governor Jay Inslee.

Following a tour of the Poison Helpline call enter, discussions revolved around the WAPC's efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Washington. The WAPC conveyed to Governor Inslee that call volume related to fentanyl exposures has more than doubled in 2023. As of September 30, 2023, the WAPC has assisted 1,051 callers with fentanyl exposuresa 107% increase from the 508 callers in 2022. These calls encompassed a range of scenarios, including overdoses resulting from substance use, instances of self-harm and suspected suicide attempts, and young children unintentionally ingesting fentanyl in their homes. The WAPC's team of pharmacists, nurses, and physician toxicologists provided these callers with treatment advice and harm reduction strategies.

The WAPC additionally shared with Governor Inslee their dedication to enhancing accessibility and awareness of naloxone (NARCAN), the opioid overdose reversal medication. The Governor and First Spouse experienced hands-on training on how to use naloxone. Dr. Scott Phillips, Executive and Medical Director of the WAPC emphasized the importance of this training: "Many people see naloxone as intimidating, which can be a barrier to providing lifesaving care. Holding the nasal spray and having practice using it are essential steps in successfully responding to the opioid epidemic." The WAPC discussed with Governor Inslee their hope to expand their current naloxone education and distribution program to provide naloxone and training to youth and young adults. Since the program's launch in August, the WAPC has distributed approximately 600 naloxone kits, an equivalent of 1,200 doses, through three events.

For inquiries, contact [email protected].

About the WAPC: The Washington Poison Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit mandated by Washington State to deliver poison and drug exposure-related medical advice and education to community members, first responders, and healthcare providers. WAPC provides medical advice through a 24/7/365 free telephone line staffed by specially trained pharmacists, nurses, and physician medical toxicologists. WAPC also provides free programs to educate local communities on poison safety, prevention, and harm reduction.

SOURCE Washington Poison Center
VERO BEACH, Fla., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Wire 3, a provider of fiber optic internet as fast as the speed of light, is thrilled to announce its upcoming expansion to Vero Beach, Florida, and its surrounding neighborhoods. This move marks a significant milestone in Wire 3's mission to connect communities across Central Florida with top-tier internet services, and makes Vero Beach the next 10-Gig city that Wire 3 will begin constructing.

With recent announcements in Palm Bay and Melbourne, Wire 3 is aggressively pursuing their goal of being the premier residential fiber provider in the Space Coast. "When you hear 10 Gig speeds, we want you to think of central Florida, and we want you to think of Wire 3. Because we're just getting started" said Ryan Dendievel, SVP of Sales and Marketing for Wire 3.

Wire 3 offers symmetrical data speeds up to 10 Gbps, which is 40 times as fast as the average U.S. internet connection. This means that customers can stream multiple HD videos, play online games, and work from home without any lag or buffering. Wire 3 also offers a variety of other features, including unlimited data, no contracts, and free installation.

"We are committed to providing our customers with the best possible internet experience," said CEO Jai Ramachandran. "That's why we use only the latest fiber optic technology and offer a variety of features that are not available from other ISPs. We believe that Wire 3 is the best choice for anyone who wants the fastest, most reliable internet service available."

The construction process will begin in the coming months, and Wire 3 is dedicated to ensuring a smooth and efficient deployment. Residents of Veor Beach and nearby areas can stay informed about the project's progress by visiting the Wire 3 website and signing up for updates.

Join Wire 3 in welcoming this exciting new chapter as they continue to build stronger connections, one community at a time.

For more information about Wire 3 and its services, please visit www.wire3.com.

For information on available positions at Wire 3, please visit wire3.com/careers/

About Wire 3

Wire 3 is an all-fiber, 10 Gigabit Internet service provider that is committed to providing its customers with the fastest, most reliable internet service available. Wire 3 is currently available in Volusia and Brevard counties in Florida, and is expanding to Vero Beach in early 2024. For more information, visit www.wire3.com.

Press Contact: Ryan Dendievel

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Wire 3 Holdings
LONDON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Zambia External Bondholder Steering Committee ("the Committee") is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement-in-principle with the Government of Zambia (the Government) on a restructuring of Zambia's (i) US$750,000,000 5.375 per cent. Notes due 2022, (ii) US$1,000,000,000 8.500 per cent. Notes due 2024 and (iii) US$1,250,000,000 8.970 per cent. Amortising Notes due 2027 (collectively the "Eurobonds").

The proposed agreement will provide the Government with significant cash flow and debt stock relief to support a restoration of macro-economic and debt sustainability in the context of the IMF-financed programme and cure the long-standing default on the Eurobonds. The proposed restructuring terms provide both substantial up-front debt relief and future relief commensurate with Zambia's economic progress in the next few years, with enhanced repayment terms and higher coupons on one of the two new Eurobonds to be issued in the event that Zambia's debt carrying capacity, as assessed by the IMF and World Bank's Composite Indicator, moves to medium from weak or Zambia continues to meet or exceed current IMF projections as measured by exports of goods and services and fiscal revenues measured in US Dollars.

This approach is consistent with the agreement recently reached with Zambia's Official Creditor Committee.

The Committee appreciates the collaborative and transparent discussions with the Government that have allowed for an agreement-in-principle to be reached. Furthermore, the Committee is pleased to have been able to support the Government as it implements its economic reform programme for the benefit of all Zambians.

A spokesperson on behalf of the Committee said: "We are pleased to have reached an agreement-in-principle with the Government which will, in due course, restore full international capital markets access to Zambia and encourage long-term investment in the country, to the benefit of all Zambians. The proposal represents an innovative and sustainable solution that we hope will set a positive precedent for future sovereign restructurings under the Common Framework."

The key elements of the agreement-in-principle are contained in the Government's press release. Implementation of the agreement-in-principle is conditional on mutual agreement on deal documentation and the objective is to fully implement the agreement before year-end.

The Committee encourages all holders of the Eurobonds to carefully consider the terms of the Government's prospective offer in relation to the agreement-in-principle, and to make their own independent appraisal of the merits and risks of participation.

Members of the Committee include the following asset managers (acting either directly or on behalf of funds or other accounts they manage): Amia Capital LLP; Amundi (UK) Limited; RBC BlueBay Asset Management; Farallon Capital Management, LLC; Greylock Capital Management, LLC.

The Creditor Committee is being advised by Newstate Partners and Weil Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP.

Questions can be directed to:

Spencer Jones, Newstate Partners LLP, +44 20 3077 4916 or [email protected]

Annie Emery, Newstate Partners LLP, +44 20 3077 4915 or [email protected]

Andrew Wilkinson, Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP, +44 20 7903 1068 or [email protected]

For media enquiries:

Greenbrook, +44 20 7952 2000, [email protected]

SOURCE The Zambia External Bondholder Steering Committee
Switzerlands culinary stars shine bright at the Michelin Guide Swiss Awards this year

A love for the culinary arts has been a big part of Blancpain for over 30 years now with partnerships with world-famous chefs and roles as official timekeeper in several culinary contests. In 2020, Blancpain became the official sponsor of the famous Michelin Guide to promote their love for excellence, passion, and expertise.

Each year, the watchmaker and the Michelin Guide celebrate the world of Haute Cuisine at over 20 events around the world. WorldTempus was honoured to join them in Switzerland for the announcement of the Michelin Guide Swiss Awards at the Ecole hoteliere de Lausanne (EHL) Hospitality Business School. Blancpain also set up an elegant exhibition space for the occasion, designed in the aesthetic codes of a Blancpain boutique. Visitors could see some of the brands latest timepieces as well as talk to a watchmaker who was working on the assembly of a movement at his workbench.

The Michelin Guide Swiss Awards  Michelin Guide

Swiss stars

The Michelin Guide Stars are the Academy Awards of the gastronomy world and a recognition of the finest cuisine worldwide. Even though Switzerland is a small country, 138 stars were awarded to chefs and their restaurants across the country this year. Celebrating three stars were chefs from the restaurants: Memories in Bad Ragaz, Cheval Blanc by Peter Knogl in Basel, Restaurant de lHotel de Ville in Crissier, and Schloss Schauenstein in Furstenau.

The Michelin Guide Swiss Awards  Michelin Guide

Five new restaurants joined the prestigious list of two-star establishments, including The Japanese Restaurant in Andermatt, Mammertsberg in Freidorf, LAtelier Robuchon in Geneva, La Table du Lausanne Palace in Lausanne, and La Table du Valrose in Rougemont. And 19 newcomers joined the one-star list. All the winners from the lakes to the mountains can be found in the Michelin Guide Switzerland 2023  anyone looking for the finest dining suggestions, need look no further!

Young Chef Award

In addition to the awarding of the stars, Blancpain also joined the Michelin Guide in presenting the prestigious Young Chef Award, a prize that went to two chefs this year, 30-year-old twins and brothers Dominik Sato and Fabio Toffolon (Dominik took his wifes name when they married). The duo are at the helm of The Japanese Restaurant and The Japanese by The Chedi at Gutsch, both located in The Chedi Andermatt Hotel. Although not of Japanese origin, their love for Asian cuisine knows no bounds.

The Michelin Guide Swiss Awards  Michelin Guide

Sharing a kitchen

Completing an emotional day of award-giving, five chefs then took over the kitchen of EHL to create a six-course menu served with Swiss wines for over 200 guests. Sven Wassmer (***), Stefan Heilemann (**), Cedric Bourassin (*), Julien Boutonnet and Marc Turcas served a refined menu, delighting the guests' taste buds with an array of culinary inspirations. They were assisted by the hospitality business schools first-year students who were on hand in the kitchen and provided a first-rate table service throughout the evening.

At the end of the evening, all the students lined up in their white aprons to make a tunnel for the chefs to walk down to join the stage. Thunderous applause from the audience accompanied them, making it an evening to remember and one that underlines the excellence that unites the Michelin Guide and Blancpain.
For over a century, the Panerai family legacy has been intertwined with precision instruments made to accompany the Italian military in their exploits

The origins where it all began

Commissioned by the Royal Italian Navy to supply high-precision instruments, it was Guido Panerais Radiomir - a radiumbased substance that illuminates for visibility in the dark  that began it all when it was patented in 1916.

An archival receipt shows that the Radiomir prototype was presented in 1935, and over the years, the sandwich construction has been progressively adjusted and is currently made of only two superimposed plates. Other improvements include the crown-protecting device, and a new luminous substance, the Luminor. A watch produced strictly for the military, the forces used it until the early 1970s, with its designs protected by military secrets.

Officine Panerai leaped into the commercial watch market in 1992, launching three collections of ten references in limited editions - the 44 mm Luminor and Luminor Marina watches and the 42 mm Mare Nostrum chronograph, which were presented on 10 September 1993 at the La Spezia military harbor in the presence of Duke Amedeo DAosta, son of Sir Aimone di Savoia, the then supreme head of the Italian diving department. Radiomir was only made public in 1997 when the Vendome Group  today Richemont Group - acquired Panerai, introducing the first Vendome special edition in sixty pieces - the PAM 21 model in a platinum version.

Radiomir Officine  Panerai

The acquisition advanced Panerais history into contemporary developments from the reopening of the historic boutique in Piazza San Giovanni to the establishment of the Panerai Manufacture in Neuchatel where fine Swiss watchmaking meet innovation driven by an Italian soul. With a century of innovative instruments developed for performance in response to evolving technical needs, Panerai projects into the future via research, strategic partnerships, sustainability, and empowering modern heroes.

These initiatives include eSteel, a next-generation metal obtained from pre-consumer recycled steel scraps (up to 95%) coming from different industries, preferably from Swiss watchmaking industry, whose production significantly reduces CO2 emissions, and a partnership with the IOC-UNESCO to develop solutions with the aim of building a more sustainable, equitable society.

A restyled limited edition true to its roots

As part of the Radiomir Officine family, Panerai introduces a limited-edition timepiece featuring restyled elements that brings its aesthetics closer to its roots than ever before. The Radiomir Officine PAM01385 pays tribute to many of the iconic elements of the 1935 Radiomir prototype while incorporating contemporary technical expertise to exude a universal appeal to watch lovers.

Radiomir Officine  Panerai

Set in a polished steel 45mm case with the iconic cone-shaped crown, the watch features a brown matte hollowed dial with indexes and numerals only at twelve and six oclock while the beige Super-Luminova illuminates in green in the dark. The hour hand is segmented in half  an emblematic feature of Radiomir from its inception. Matched with a brown leather strap, the timepieces monotone shade highlights the brown dial, a matte color style that features for the first time within the collection. The revamped and restyled elements include the pared-down dial that features only the Radiomir Panerai inscription without the collections typical OP logo, as well as a case constructed from monoblock steel. Radiomir Officine PAM01385 is powered by a hand-wound P.6000 calibre with a three-day power reserve and is water resistant up to 10 bar  a depth of about 100 metres.

The strap is also interchangeable with selections from Panerais wide range of colors.

The Maison conveys all these characteristics as a coveted limited-edition inspired by an archival receipt dated 24 October 1935 that testifies to the birth of the first Radiomir prototype. To commemorate the milestone, this e-commerce exclusive will be launched on 24 October 2023 in a limited 300 pieces.
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
New Delhi : PM Modi addresses at the inauguration of the third edition of Global Maritime India Summit (GMIS) 2023 via video conferencing. Image Source: IANS News

Ayodhya, Oct 26 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram Temple on January 22, 2024.

Members of the temple trust formally extended an invitation for the ceremony to the Prime minister in Delhi on Wednesday.

General Secretary of the Sri Ram Janambhoomi Trust, Champat Rai, officially confirmed the date of January 22, 2024, for the installation of the idol of Lord Ram in the 'Garbhagriha' (sanctum sanctorum) of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh.

Lord Ram's idol will be placed inside the temple on this day.

The invitation to Prime Minister Modi was issued one day after the announcement by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, confirming the installation of Lord Ram's idol at the Ayodhya temple on January 22. He also urged people to arrange events at temples throughout the country to commemorate this significant occasion.

Ahead of the Prime Minister's visit to Ayodhya, some Muslim leaders have requested the Prime Minister to also lay the foundation stone of the new Babri Masjid.

In the 2019 landmark Supreme Court ruling in the Ayodhya land dispute, the judgment said that the Ram Mandir would be constructed at the 2.77 acres disputed site and Muslims would be given an alternate 5-acre land in Dhannipur for the construction of Babri Masjid.

While 'Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra' was formed for the construction of the temple, the 'Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation' was formed to oversee the mosque's construction.

Iqbal Ansari, who was one of the main petitioners in the Babri Masjid-Ram temple dispute, held members of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation responsible for the delay in the mosque's construction.

Expressing displeasure with the pace of the mosque's construction, he demanded that the trustees of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation be changed. While Lord Ram's idol is to be placed in the temple in January, the foundation stone of the mosque is yet to be laid.

"Our Prime Minister is coming to Ayodhya on an auspicious occasion. We request him to start the work on the mosque also. This is our heartfelt wish," said Mohammad Ismail Ansari, President, Indian Muslim League.

Nazmul Hasan Ghani, Acting State President, Indian Muslim League, requested Prime Minister Modi to bring along Imam Ahmed Bukhari of Jama Masjid and Dr Ilyasi, President of the All India Imam Organization, and lay the foundation stone of the Dhannipur mosque.
Two killed in road accident in Odisha. Image Source: IANS News

Lima, Oct 26 : At least four people were killed and dozens injured after two passenger buses collided head-on in the southern Peruvian department of Cusco, authorities said.

The accident occurred on Sunday at around 1:30 a.m. in Espinar province, the Superintendence of Ground Transportation of People, Cargo and Goods (Sutran) said in a statement.

One of the buses was travelling the Cusco-Arequipa route and the other was going in the opposite direction when they collided head on, Xinhua news agency reported.

Both bus operators were registered in the National System of Ground Transportation and have Compulsory Traffic Accident Insurance, according to Sutran.

Cusco health authorities said regional hospital personnel were attending to the many injured.

Radio Programas del Peru added that due to the high number of injured victims, the Espinar Fire Brigade requested backup from police and even local residents.

Authorities said they have launched an investigation to determine the causes of the accident.
Africa is a continent of spectacular beauty, diverse cultures, and incredible landscapes. If you are looking for a place for an unforgettable vacation, this destination will be an ideal option.

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From huge beaches to exotic safaris, Africa has everything you need to fall in love with it.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar is a small archipelago in Tanzania, known for its white beaches, crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean, and unforgettable atmosphere. Here tourists can enjoy a relaxing vacation, the fascinating underwater world while snorkeling or diving, and visit the ancient city of Stone Town with its narrow streets, colorful bazaars, and attractions.

The city itself is considered the historical center and cultural pearl of the region. It is famous for its unique architecture, influences of different cultures and rich history. Here you can visit Fort Jesus, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The house of the famous local merchant Frederick Lucas, which now serves as a museum of Zanzibar history, is nearby.

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Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in Africa, located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The destination is famous for its spectacular mountain landscape, in particular, the famous Mount Stoll. Tourists can climb to its top by cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Cape Town also offers excellent beaches, wine tours, local food tastings, and scenic boat trips.

Despite this, Cape Town is considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world, where people are robbed in broad daylight. Tourists are strongly advised not to walk after sunset, and some guides offer armed escorts during their tours.

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Masai Mara, Kenya

Masai Mara is a huge nature reserve located in Kenya. Here you can see large herds of animals, such as lions, zebras, giraffes, and elephants, in their natural environment. The local safari is an unforgettable adventure that allows you to plunge into the world of wildlife.

Of course, this is not a cheap pleasure and lasts from 3 to 7 days, but you are guaranteed an incredible experience. Just imagine telling your colleagues at work how you hunted African wildlife with your camera.

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Victoria, Seychelles

Victoria is the capital of the Seychelles and one of the most popular resorts in Africa. This paradise in the middle of the water attracts visitors with its white sand beaches, colorful coral reefs, and luxurious hotels. Tourists can enjoy high-end recreation, water sports, exploring local nature reserves and enjoying the unrivaled views.

The famous St. Anne National Park is a few kilometers from Victoria. It covers a large area, including the islands of Ste. Anne, Moyenne, and Ile Cachee. Its waters are inhabited by various species of marine organisms, such as corals, fish, shells, dolphins, and many other animals. Hiking, water, and even underwater excursions are available for tourists.

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Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is one of the most impressive natural wonders in Africa. Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is also known among the local population as "Rumbling Smoke". Its powerful water jets, noise, and storm clouds will not leave any visitor indifferent. Perhaps the best way to see this beauty is to book a helicopter tour to enjoy its majesty from above.

To understand the full power of this natural phenomenon, it is enough to note that the waterfall is almost 2 km wide. Its water falls with such force that it drowns out any other sounds. Even standing at a certain distance from the water's edge, you can easily get wet because there is a lot of spray in the air.

ADVERTISIMENT

Don't forget to take care of your safety

Traveling to Africa can be an unforgettable adventure, but safety should always come first. Here are some general recommendations on how to avoid getting into trouble during your trip:

Before you leave, familiarize yourself with the specifics of your chosen country. Find out about the political situation, potential conflict zones, weather conditions, medical certificates, and other important aspects. Consult with your doctor about vaccinations and other measures to prevent diseases that are common in the region. Write down the phone numbers of your country's embassy or consulate, local police, and emergency services in advance. Carry these contacts with you in case of emergencies. Be vigilant in crowded places, especially on the streets, public transportation, and popular tourist destinations. Refrain from showing money or valuable jewelry. Always carry your passport or other identification with you. Be sure to make several copies and put them in safe places and upload them to the cloud.

It is important to understand that the crime rate can vary from country to country and even from region to region within the same country. Somalia, South Sudan, Libya, and the Central African Republic are currently considered the most dangerous.

Regardless of the chosen destination, you should always be careful and follow the recommendations of local authorities and travel organizations. It is important to research all the tips in advance to make your trip unforgettable and safe.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL shared which exotic islands are popular in summer.

Only verified information is available on Obozrevatel Telegram and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
United Nations, Oct 26 : The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has said that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached an unprecedented point.

The UN Agency for Palestine Refugees, or UNRWA, which is by far the largest humanitarian provider in Gaza, warned on Wednesday that the agency will be forced to halt all operations by Wednesday night unless fuel is allowed into Gaza immediately, Xinhua news agency reported.

Hospitals are shutting down as they lack fuel, water, medical supplies and personnel. Fuel is being severely rationed for a select number of critical facilities. The backup generators are not designed for continuous operation and could break, said OCHA.

UN personnel visited hospitals on Tuesday. In one hospital, they noted hundreds of wounded men, women and children. Many of them were unconscious, with open wounds - lying on beds, stretchers and on the floor - with limited medical attendance. In the yard, there was a tent with tens of dead bodies, including children. Many of the dead are kept there because the morgues are full, it said.

Food stocks are running out. The World Food Programme estimates that current supplies of essential food in Gaza are sufficient for about 12 days. However, at shops, the available stock is expected to last for only five days, said OCHA.

People are resorting to drinking well water, which is extremely high in salt and poses immediate health risks. Health partners have also detected cases of chickenpox, scabies and diarrhoea due to poor sanitation conditions and consumption of water from unsafe sources, it said.

The number of internally displaced people is now estimated at more than 1.4 million, including nearly 590,000 people sheltering in UNRWA-designated shelters. More than 15 per cent of the displaced are estimated to have disabilities, yet most shelters are not adequately equipped for their needs, it said.

Local authorities report that more than 40 per cent of all housing units in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed or damaged, said OCHA.
United Nations, Oct 26 : Two duelling resolutions from Russia and the US on the Gaza situation have failed miring the UN Security Council in inaction on the spiralling humanitarian crisis that also threatens to engulf the region in wider conflicts.

On Wednesday, the resolution proposed by the US was vetoed by Russia and China, while Russia's resolution failed to get the required nine votes to pass and did not turn the negative votes of the US and the UK into vetoes.

Four resolutions on Gaza have failed at the Council in the last ten days, with Russia and the US vetoing one each, illustrating the inefficacy of the UN's highest decision-making body when national interests of the permanent members collide.

Russia and the US will have to appear before the General Assembly to explain their vetoes under a resolution adopted by it last year.

The General Assembly had already scheduled an emergency session on Palestine on Thursday with 104 nations and Palestine and the European Union signed up by Wednesday evening to speak. (India was not on the list of speakers.)

It is likely to pass a resolution calling for a ceasefire, which would only be symbolic as it does not have the enforcement powers that the Council has.

US Permanent Representative Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Moscow of acting "in bad faith" and cynically proposing the resolution with "a number of problematic sections" at the last moment without consultations.

Russia's Permanent Representative Vassily Nebenzia countered: "National and narrow self-centred ideological and political interests prevailed over the aim of stopping a humanitarian disaster."

The votes on the rival resolutions came after France tried unsuccessfully to delay bringing the resolutions to the floor in order to seek consensus, according to diplomatic sources.

Both resolutions condemned attacks on civilians, demanded the release of the hostages and called for humanitarian assistance to Gaza, but differed on stopping the conflict.

The Russian draft called for a "ceasefire", while the US wanted only a "humanitarian pause"  a semantic difference between a longer and formal stoppage of hostilities and a brief one with a specific goal.

The United Arab Emirates joined China and Russia to vote against the US resolution, while Brazil, whose resolution had been vetoed by the US last week, and Mozambique abstained. The other ten vote for it.

Gabon, China, and UAE voted for Russia's resolution along with it, the UK and the US voted no, and nine, including Japan and France, abstained.

UAE, the only Arab nation on the Council, implied that there were double standards in the approach to the Gaza crisis between the US resolution that it opposed and Russia's it backed.

"There is no hierarchy of civilian lives," UAE's Permanent Representative Lana Nusseibeh said.

She said: "Yesterday, we heard dozens of statements imploring this council to assign the same value to Palestinian life as it does to Israeli life. We cannot allow any equivocation on this point."

On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke out against the notion that it followed double standards.

He said: "There is no hierarchy when it comes to protecting civilian lives. A civilian is a civilian is a civilian, no matter his or her nationality, ethnicity, age, gender, faith."

(Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis)
Kiev, Oct 26 : Ukraine has launched talks with Moldova and Romania over establishing a "green corridor" for grain exports, the Ukrainian Ministry for Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development has said.

The projected "green corridor" would link the road border crossing points of Ukraine's Reni, Moldova's Giurgiulesti and Romania's Galati on the way from Ukraine to the seaports in Romania, Xinhua news agency reported.

The "green corridor" envisages the facilitation of border crossing procedures and the reconstruction of the Reni-Galati highway.

According to the Ukrainian government's plan, the creation of the corridor would increase the capacity of the Reni-Giurgiulesti border crossing from 50 trucks to 250 trucks per day.
Jaipur, Oct 25 : Is the Khalistan movement spreading its wings in Rajasthan too? This question is being raised after "Khalistan Zindabad" slogans were seen in Hanumangarh on Tuesday, a month before Assembly polls in Rajasthan.

"Khalistan Zindabad" was found written on the wall of a railway station in Hanumangarh and the Government Railway Police got it whitewashed after the station master informed higher authorities about it.

Videos supporting the Khalistan cause and stating that the desert state, too, would become Khalistan were also uploaded on social media from different accounts.

One of the videos with slides and a voiceover that went viral says, "Wahe Guru Ji Da Khalsa, Wahe Guru Ji Di Fateh! This is Hanumangarh Junction railway station of Rajasthan, where the flag of Khalistan has been put up. Long live Khalistan, long live SFJ!"

The video then goes on to state that in November 1984, hundreds of Sikhs were burnt alive at Hanumangarh Junction. It alleges that Bhairon Singh Shekhawat of Jan Sangh was leading the mob and the Congress' Shiv Charan Mathur supported him.

It adds that actor Amitabh Bachchan had raised the slogan "Khoon ka badla khoon" and Sikhs were murdered at every railway station, right from Delhi to other parts of the country.

"Bachchan, teach justice, the target is on you. The target is Modi who is the representative of this murderous society. Rahul Gandhi is the target. He is the representative of this murderous society. In the times to come, Sikhs who love justice will take revenge. Elections are going to be held in Rajasthan. Rajasthan will become Khalistan. In future the Khalistan flag will be hoisted at Hanumangarh Railway Station, from Delhi to the other side of the border, where the Sikhs were massacred. Blood will definitely be avenged with blood," says the video.

The US-based group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) was set up in 2007 reportedly with the agenda to create a separate Khalistan in Punjab. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a lawyer in America, who studied law from Punjab University, is the face of the SFJ.

In 2019, SFJ was banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) by the Union Home Ministry on charges of running anti-national campaigns in India. According to the Union Home Ministry, the SFJ is trying to instigate people in Punjab. Also, demonstrations were held in many places globally, demanding Khalistan, due to which India's image has been tarnished.

Rajasthan BJP Vice President Sardar Ajay Pal Singh meanwhile expressed anger over the incident at Hanumangarh junction.

He said, "This is the first such case in Rajasthan. Even when terrorism was at its peak in Punjab, Rajasthan and its adjoining areas remained calm, but recently, after the statements made by Congress leaders on the Canada issue, the morale of such anti-social elements has increased. The result of this is that now anti-national slogans are being written on the walls in Rajasthan also.

"In such a situation, it is necessary to immediately control such elements in Rajasthan. The leaders of the Congress and Rajasthan Congress should also clarify their views on the Khalistan issue."

A few months ago, a map went viral which showed parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana and Delhi as part of the proposed Khalistan.

In Rajasthan, the map included districts like Sriganganagar, Anupgarh, Bikaner, Phalodi, Jodhpur, Alwar, Khairthal, Bharatpur, Deeg, Bundi and Kota adjacent to Punjab. The recently-formed districts of Anupgarh, Phalodi, Khairthal and Deeg were mentioned separately in it.

This map had come out two years ago. Now, after the rise of the Khalistan movement in Canada, this map is once again being circulated and discussed.

IPS officer BL Soni, the first SP of the Anti-Terrorist Operation, Rajasthan in 1992, earlier told the media that Khalistani terrorism was at its peak in Punjab between 1990-92 and at that time, Khalistani terrorists used to show just the border districts of Rajasthan in their maps. However, now districts like Bundi, Kota, Jodhpur, Alwar and Bharatpur are being included in the map of Khalistan.

Recently Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot said, "The demand for Khalistan has started rising because of PM Modi's Hindu-Muslim divide. The entire state is seeing all this for the first time due to the ruckus created by the BJP. Today the Sardars of Punjab have started telling me that 'if we talk in the name of religion in India, if we talk about Hindus, then we are Sikhs, what wrong did our people do by demanding Khalistan.'"
Lucknow, Oct 26 : A six-year-old girl was attacked by dogs while playing outside her house in Lucknow's Saadatganj area.

The incident took place at around 8.30 p.m. on Wednesday night when the girl, Alia, was playing with her elder brother.

Suddenly, a pack of six dogs approached Alia and started barking. The frightened girl and her brother started to run.

While Alia's brother managed to enter the house before the dogs could reach him, Alia, however, was not so lucky. One of the dogs made her fall and then bit her on the right side of her back.

The other dogs also attacked her.

Hearing Alia's screams, a nearby shopkeeper, Saif Alam, rushed to help her.

However, the dogs attacked him as well and bit him on the hands.

Alam eventually managed to drive the dogs away with the help of other neighbours.

Both Alia and Alam were taken to a private hospital, where they were given first aid and a tetanus vaccine.

Doctors asked Alia's parents to take her to Balrampur hospital on Thursday for rabies vaccination.

Alia's father, Mohammed Akbar said: "We have reported about dog attacks multiple times to the local corporator, but nobody has paid any heed. I can hardly make both ends meet. I do not know how I will be able to get my girl treated."

Lucknow Municipal Corporation animal welfare officer Abhinav Verma said: "We have not received any dog attack case report from Saadatganj, but we will probe the issue and stray dogs in the area will be sterilized soon."
Lucknow, Oct 26 : A resident of Bihar has been arrested for duping aspirants after offering help in securing admission to medical colleges through a company he had established in Lucknow.

The man was arrested on Wednesday near Gomti Nagar station on the basis of a tip-off.

"Three cases have been registered in Vibhuti Khand Gomti Nagar police station against the man identified as Shashi Singh (22), a Patna resident and his enterprise, S Group company. We are searching for his associates," said the police.

ADCP (East Zone) Syed Abbas Ali said that "Singh used to lure those who had a poor score in the NEET exam".

During interrogation, Shashi told police that along with his aides Rajeev Singh and Prem Prakash Vidyarthi, his company collected data of students who had failed the NEET examination.

He also named another man Ashok Kumar who supported him in the fraudulent business.

After getting the list of contacts, the candidate's family members were contacted through tele callers and offered admission to leading medical colleges.

Later, they got money transferred from them through cheque and RTGS to Saraswati Charitable Trust, and Sanaka Educational and S Group and fled with the money.

"By the time people saw something amiss, they would close their offices and shift to another place," said police.
Balrampur, Oct 26 : A 35-year-old man immolated himself in front of a police station in Uttar Pradesh's Balrampur district after he was said to be upset over a land dispute.

Ram Bujharath was rushed to the hospital, from where he was referred to KGMU's trauma centre in Lucknow.

His condition was stated to be serious.

District Magistrate Arvind Kumar Singh said that a magisterial probe has been ordered into the matter.

SP Balrampur, Keshav Kumar said that a lekhpal and revenue team is probing the case pertaining to land number 237 in Gaidas Bujurg police station.

Police said that Ram reached the police station and before anybody could stop him, he immolated himself.

The SP said that the victim had given a written complaint to the Gaidas Bujurg police station about a dispute of his land number 237 on October 23.

"We had already formed a team comprising a lekhpal, ADM and a police officer for a probe," he added.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : UP Congress Committee (UPCC) president Ajay Rai will pay a visit to the Sitapur Jail on Thursday to meet SP founder member Azam Khan.

"The purpose of this visit is to express solidarity with Azam Khan who is being harassed by the BJP government. In their act of political vengeance, the BJP has invoked false cases against Khan and is also targetting his family members, including his wife. There is a limit to vendetta," Rai told reporters.

Claiming that his act was 'purely humanitarian' and had nothing to do with any controversy or politics, Rai added that Congress workers will meet Khan's wife Tazeen Fatima and his son Abdullah Azam who are also in jail.

Asked if he had been given permission to visit Khan, Rai said: "Our Sitapur counterparts have followed the due procedure, but whether we get the permission or not, I will go there."

Sources, however, said that Rai's request has been refused by the jail authorities. Political analysts said that "It is a messaging gimmick and the Congress is eyeing minority votes who form 19 per cent of the electorate in UP."

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and thereafter, Ajai Rai, had paid a visit to the house of BSP MP Danish Ali after he was subjected to abusive language by BJP MP Ramesh Bidhuri during a debate on the Women's Reservation Bill in Parliament.

This is to indicate that the Congress is willing to raise its voice for those who have been exploited in the BJP regime across party lines.

Meanwhile, the development is sure to generate some heartburn between SP and Congress in UP.

A senior SP leader reacted strongly to the issue pointing out that the complainant in most of the cases lodged against Azam Khan happen to be old Congressmen.

"On July 21, 2019 an official delegation of Congress party met the then Governor demanding Azam Khan's arrest. Now the Congress leaders will go to Sitapur even though they have been denied permission to meet him. This explains that the move is an election gimmick by the Congress," said a senior SP leader.

Akhilesh Yadav, though welcomed political leaders going to meet Azam, questioned the silence of Congress Party when "false cases were being slapped on him".

"Waise to sabko Azam Khan se milna chahiye. Lekin us samay Congress ke neta kahan the jab unko (Azam) ko farzi case mein phasaya jaa raha tha aur Congress ke neta bhi phasane mein lage hue the (People should go and meet Azam Khan. But where were the Congress leaders when Azam Khan was being implicated in false cases. Congress leaders were also a part of it)," the SP chief said.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : The Uttar Pradesh government will probe the diversion of crop loans taken on Kisan Credit Cards for spending on weddings and other luxury items.

State Agriculture Minister Surya Pratap Shahi said that the department has been receiving a significant number of complaints about farmers rechannelling the crop loans.

"The department will step up the campaign to check this practice. If it is a crop loan, it should be used for only cropping and boosting production. Its diversion needs to be checked aggressively," he said.

The minister said that a good number of farmers have been defaulting heavily on repayment of loan after diverting it for other purposes. "The defaulting amount accounted for a good part of the Rs 36,000 crore crop loan which was waived off by the state government in the past (2017 when Yogi government came to power in UP for the first time)," he said.

As a matter of fact, the state government waived off farm loans worth Rs 200 crore in 2022, the year when the state went to polls.

The scheme covered around 33,000 farmers straddling 19 districts -- Gorakhpur, Ayodhya, Kannauj, Muzaffarnagar, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Sambhal, Kushinagar, Lakhimpur Kheri, Hathras, Jaunpur, Ghaziabad, Ghazipur, Ballia, Agra, Auraiyya, Kushinagar, Shamli, Sitapur and Sonbhadra.

The crop loans are essentially provided through the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) issued by commercial, rural and cooperative banks operating in the state.

Records show that the state government managed to provide crop loans of around Rs 82 lakh crores to the farmers in 2022-23.

This is expected to go up further beyond Rs 1 lakh crores in 2023-24. The increase, experts said, is essentially because of the rise in the MSP and the market price of the crop.

Officials said that as many as 1.5 crore farmers are registered under KCC, out of which around 50 lakhs have already applied for loans from various banks in the current fiscal year.

The farmers are provided loans at an interest of around 7 per cent. This gets further reduced to 4 per cent if the farmer pays back within the stipulated time frame of one year.

Experts point to the 2020 Reserve Bank of India report which said around Rs 3.12 trillion (Rs 3.12 lakh crore) had been waived by Centre and the various state governments since 2009.

The report categorically states that the waivers were happening due to political reasons as was evident from the timing of the announcements a" all happened in election years.
22 killed in two mass shootings in US, 'person of interest' identified (Ld). Image Source: IANS News

Washington, Oct 26 : At least 22 people were killed in two mass shooting incidents in the US state of Maine, authorities said, adding that a "person of interest" who is "armed and dangerous" has been identified.

In a statement late Wednesday night, the Lewiston Police Department said the 40-year-old person of interest Robert Card, who is currently absconding, should be "considered armed and dangerous", CNN reported.

"Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening.CARD should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts," the statement added.

On Wednesday evening, the police department said that had responded to two locations in Lewiston -- a restaurant called Schemengees, and Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley, the BBC reported.

The two locations are at a distance of 6.5 km from each other.

Also confirming the incident, Maine State Police said in a post on X: "There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked."

The Central Maine Medical Center also said that it was reacting to a "mass casualty, mass shooter event" and is coordinating with other hospitals in the area to treat the injured.

Although the number of injured persons was not immediately clear, but reports have suggested that at least 50 to 60 people were hurt.

Meanwhile, the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office released two images of a suspect, showing a bearded man in a brown sweater carrying a firearm walking into a building.

"Law enforcement in Androscoggin County are investigating two active shooter events. We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate. The suspect is still at large," the Office said in a Facebook post.

Police also shared a photo of a white vehicle, saying its front bumper was believed to be painted black, and asked anybody who recognised it to contact police.

Lewiston Public Schools Superintendent Jake Langlais has announced that schools in the district would be closed on Thursday.

A statement from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had been briefed and was continuing to monitor the situation.

"DHS is working closely with our federal, state and local partners to support the Lewiston community," it said.

The Justice Department said that federal agencies were assisting state and local law enforcement.

The White House said President Joe Biden has been informed of the incident, adding that he spoke on the phone with a number of Maine lawmakers in the wake of the mass shootings, reports CNN.

"The President spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston, Maine and offered full federal support in the wake of this horrific attack," it added.

Lewiston is a town of about 38,000 people located about 35 miles north of Portland, Maine.
After the upheaval of the pandemic, tourism and the hospitality industry are beginning to bloom again. Industry representatives are seeking to introduce new services and opportunities that will determine the future vector of development.

ADVERTISIMENT

This is reported by EuroNews. The annual report of Booking.com shows that European hoteliers consider the summer of 2023 to be successful.

They also expect the economic situation to develop positively over the next 6 months. The report covered such topics as regional food, the use of artificial intelligence (AI), and more.

What does the tourism and hospitality industry have in store for 2024?

Austrian and German hotels are investing in sustainability

From the sleeper train boom to tourist taxes to protect the environment, the travel industry is striving to become more environmentally friendly.

A survey by Booking.com has shown that the environment is also a priority for hotels in Austria and Germany. Just over 75% of Austrian hotels and 63% in Germany expressed interest in eco-friendly products and services.

ADVERTISIMENT

However, other countries did not share this interest, bringing the EU average down to 50%. European hotels were more interested in investing in energy efficiency and waste reduction, especially given the rise in energy costs this year.

Greece and France seek to attract Generation Z travelers

Generation Z travelers may want to book accommodation in Greece, France and Austria next year, where hotels are deliberately hoping to attract younger guests.

The interest of the Scandinavian countries, Italy and Spain was lower. As to Germany, the greatest emphasis was placed on attracting domestic tourists. Hotels across the continent are looking for the possibility to accommodate more families, with the EU average at 56%.

ADVERTISIMENT

More vegan and vegetarian options

Starting in 2024, hotels will focus on aligning menus with consumer trends. According to the report, hotel owners have noticed an increase in the number of customers who prefer organic and regional food.

Almost two-thirds of respondents said that vegetarian and vegan options are important, and 54% offer both. Two-thirds also plan to eliminate plastic packaging.

Hoteliers' interest in AI is declining

Artificial intelligence has been a hot topic in travel this year, with travelers using ChatGPT to plan their trips and compare airfares.

ADVERTISIMENT

However, the hype around AI for hoteliers is waning. The number of hotels using artificial intelligence has only slightly increased compared to last year, and 7 out of 10 owners say they have no plans to use it in the future.

For those who expressed interest in artificial intelligence, customer chatbots and price creation were the most popular tools they plan to use.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA showed what the Ryugyong hotel in the DPRK worth almost $2 billion looks like and why it is called "Mordor".

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Gaza, Oct 26 : Three family members of Wael Al-Dahdouh, Al Jazeera Arabic's bureau chief in Gaza, were killed amid the raging conflict in the Hamas-controlled enclave, Palestinian security and medical sources said.

On Wednesday, an Israeli raid on two houses in the Nuseirat refugee camp killed several people, including the wife, son, and daughter of Al-Dahdouh, the medical sources claimed.

"Despite being forced to relocate to the southern part of the Gaza Strip in search of safety, the Al-Dahdouh family was targeted," Xinhua news agency quoted a statement released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Interior in Gaza as saying.

The relocation followed Israel's evacuation call ordering some 1 million people to move to the southern part of the besieged enclave on October 13.

Footage on Al Jazeera English news channel shows Al-Dahdouh entering a hospital to see his slain family members.

In a statement released on social platform X, Al Jazeera confirmed the death of Al-Dahdouh's family members and extended condolence.

"The Al Jazeera Media Network extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to our colleague Weal Al-Dahdouh on the loss of his family in an Israeli airstrike," the statement said.

"Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security," it added.

According to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, 24 journalists have been killed, some with their families, and dozens more have been wounded since the beginning of the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip.

Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, firing thousands of rockets and infiltrating Israeli territory, to which Israel responded with massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has so far killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and more than 1,400 people in Israel.
5,100 Ukrainian kids deported to Russia so far: Official. Image Source: IANS News

Kiev, Oct 26 : Ukrainian authorities have started forced evacuation of some 1,000 children from frontline areas in the southern Kherson and eastern Donetsk regions as Russia has intensified attacks in recent days.

The authorities have asked parents that they must move their families to safety from 31 settlements in these two regions, adding that anoyone below the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, the BBC reported.

Oleksandr Tolokonnikov, spokesman for the Kherson regional administration, said that some families were still reluctant to leave their homes, despite constant shelling and increased danger from enemy attacks.

"There are different cases. For example, when families barricade themselves inside. Of course the police don't break doors. They talk to people. They show videos to people of what happens if the shell hits, with killed and injured children. It is more psychological work," the BBC quoted the spokesman as saying.

In the Donetsk region, a special police unit known as the White Angels is responsible for getting people to safety.

Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk,said the evacuation teams were risking their lives and appealed to parents to be ready:

"If you're warned about evacuation, please don't delay, pack the most necessary things, your documents, and leave."

But she also acknowledged that the authorities in Kherson lack sufficient armoured vehicles to transport children to safety.

Meanwhile, authorities in thenorth-eastern Kharkiv region are also preparing to evacuate 275 children from 10 settlements, reports the BBC.

The development comes as Russian troops have launched major assaults on a few areas along the Eastern front in recent days and intensified shelling in the south.
Washington, Oct 26 : Democrat Congressman Jamaal Bowman has been charged of falsely triggering a fire alarm in a US Capitol office building, which led to an hour-long evacuation.

According to a court filing, the New York Democrat is facing a single charge of "knowingly" setting off a false fire alarm on September 30, which he claims was by mistake thinking that it would get a door to open while he was in a rush, reports the BBC.

Bowman is due to to appear in Washington D.C. on Thursday morning for his arraignment on the misdemeanour charge, which carries a maximum penalty of $1,000 and six months in prison.

In a statement on Wednesday, Bowman said that he would pay a fine "and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped".

While speaking to reporters later, the Congressman called the incident a "lapse in judgment", adding that he will also write an apology letter.

The incident took place on the same day as Democrats were attempting to delay a vote as they sought more time to read a stopgap funding bill and decide whether to support it, reports the BBC.

Republicans have accused Bowman of deliberately attempting to sabotage a vote on the bill.

In an affidavit, Capitol Police noted there were three signs near the door warning about activating emergency exits and fire alarms and that Bowman had left the area quickly after the alarm was triggered.

But the affidavit noted he had denied to police that the act was intentional or that he had meant to disrupt any official proceedings.
Basel, Oct 26 : Defending champion Felix Auger-Aliassime eliminated Swiss wild card Leandro Riedi 6-3, 6-2 to reach the second round at the Swiss Indoors Basel.

The sixth seed will next play Dutchman Botic van de Zandschulp, who ousted Roberto Bautista Agut in three sets.

Auger-Aliassime has long thrived indoors, winning all four of his titles in such conditions. This is his first indoor appearance outside of Laver Cup since Rotterdam in February.

The 23-year-old Canadian stayed out of trouble on his service games for the most part, relinquishing just one break in the Wednesday's match. He consistently challenged his opponentas serve, winning 50 per cent of his return points and earning four breaks in the 75-minute match, ATP Tour reports.

In other action of the day, Argentine Tomas Martin Etcheverry battled past former World No. 1 Andy Murray 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-2 after three hours and eight minutes to reach the quarterfinals.

In the pair's first ATP Head2Head meeting this year at Indian Wells, Murray triumphed in three hours and 12 minutes. On this occasion, Etcheverry saved five of the six break points he faced, including all five he confronted in the second set.

Etcheverry will next play top seed Holger Rune or countryman Sebastian Baez for a place in the semifinals. The 24-year-old is pursuing his first ATP Tour title this week.
Tel Aviv, Oct 26 : As the deadly Israel-Hamas conflict continued for a 20th consecutive day on Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed of destroying several tanks inside the besieged Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the IDF said it moved in and fired at the Hamas outposts In Gaza on Wednesday night and destroyed many tanks and missile launching capabilities..

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has clearly said that the entry of the Israel armed forces in Gaza Strip is imminent and the ground assault will commence soon.

The Israeli forces are, according to former officers of the IDF, well versed in underground fights in tunnels and that they have exact and perfect knowledge of the construction of these tunnels and their precise locations.
Trooper shoots himself dead in J&K after wife commits suicide in Rajasthan. Image Source: IANS News

Srinagar, Oct 26 : An army soldier allegedly shot himself dead on Thursday in Jammu & Kashmir's Pampore area.

Officials said that an army soldier shot himself dead with his service rifle in Chandhara area of Pampore tehsil of Pulwama district today.

"Police has taken cognizance of the incident and investigation has been started to find out the reason for the soldier taking the extreme step", officials said.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : Kolkata Police have filed a charge sheet against 12 accused in the ragging-related death case of a fresher at the Jadavpur University (JU) in August.

Sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act have also been slapped against the accused, considering that the deceased student had undergone mental and sexual harassment before the incident on August 10, according to the charge sheet.

The accused have also been booked under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) related to abatement to suicide and ragging.

The city police has informed a lower court in Kolkata, where the charge sheet was submitted, that a supplementary charge sheet might be placed by the investigating officials at a later date in case further findings surface during the course of investigation.

In the charge sheet, sources said, the investigating officials have detailed on how the victim student was subjected to humiliation and harassment by the seniors, especially the 12 accused, since the time the deceased had shifted to the university's studentsa hostel.

Details of how the victim ultimately opted for the drastic step after being unable to bear the mental torture and harassment have also been included in the charge sheet.

The 12 accused are present and former students of the university.

Meanwhile, JU authorities are yet to reach a conclusion with regards to implementing anti-ragging measures as outlined by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and mandated by the Supreme Court.

JU insiders admit that the failure on reaching any conclusion was mainly because of the objections raised by a section of the studentsa unions who objected to certain proposals from the university authorities.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : BJP national vice-president D. K. Aruna on Thursday denied that she is planning to return to the Congress party.

She made it clear that there is no question of switching loyalties to the Congress party.

The former minister alleged that the Congress is playing mind games.

Aruna said the BJP leadership recognised her by appointing her the national vice-president of the party.

She considers working under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership a good fortune.

The BJP leader was reacting to reports that she too was also planning a return to Congress after former MLA and BJP national executive member Komatireddy Raj Gopal Reddy quit the party.

Raj Gopal Reddy on Wednesday quit the BJP and announced that he will soon join the Congress.

He had resigned from Congress and Assembly membership last year to join BJP.

He contested the by-election in Munugode constituency on a BJP ticket but could not retain the seat.

Some key leaders from Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and BJP defected to the Congress party during the last couple of months.

Aruna had quit Congress to join the BJP on the eve of 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

The party fielded her from Mahabubnagar but she lost to Manne Srinivas Reddy of TRS (now BRS).

In 2020, she was appointed as the national vice-president of the BJP.

She had served as a minister in undivided Andhra Pradesh in the cabinets of Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy and K. Rosaiah.

Meanwhile, another BJP leader and former MP G. Vivek Venkatswamy has also denied that he is planning to quit BJP and join Congress.

He said he would remain in BJP and will contest next yearas Lok Sabha polls.

Viveka has switched loyalties multiple times.

He quit TRS in 2019 after the party denied him ticket for Lok Sabha elections. He was with Congress before joining TRS in 2013.

He returned to Congress in 2014 and contested the elections from Peddapalli Lok Sabha seat. However, he suffered a crushing defeat.

In 2016, he returned to TRS but again quit the party in 2019 to join the BJP.
Bern : , Oct 26 (IANS) Erling Haaland ended a five-game Champions League goal drought with a double as Manchester City made it three wins from three in Group G with a 3-1 victory over BSC Young Boys at the Wankdorf Stadium.

Manuel Akanji, playing in his homeland, opened the scoring for Pep Guardiolaas European champions shortly after half-time. But only four minutes later, City surrendered their lead when a superb chip from Meschack Elia brought the hosts level.

However, Haalandas penalty in the 65th minute put the defending champions back in front before the Norwegian gave the scoreline a true reflection of the match as added a third in the closing stages by moving the ball onto his right foot before curling it brilliantly into the top-right corner.

City have won all three of their opening matches to all but secure their place in the last 16 of the Champions League as they prepare for Sunday's mouthwatering contest against neighbours Manchester Utd at Old Trafford.

Wednesday's result also extends Cityas unbeaten run in the Champions League to 16 matches, winning 10 and drawing six, with only Manchester United between 2007 and 2009 ever having a longer run without defeat among English teams in the competition.

Elsewhere, Kylian Mbappe shone yet again as Paris Saint Germain (PSG) claimed a memorable 3-0 victory over AC Milan, their first-ever win over seven-time champions at Parc des Princes in the French capital.

Mbappe swept PSG ahead 3-0 after a dazzling dribble following great work from teenager Warren Zaire-Emery.

When Mike Maignan could not gather another Ousmane DembAlA effort, Randal Kolo Muani turned in to make it 2-0. MbappA hit a post and substitute Kang-In Leei added a clinical late third, while Milan remain goalless in Group F.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Actor Aayush Sharma has announced the date of release of his upcoming action thriller 'Ruslaan': January 12, 2024. This comes with a tantalising new motion poster.

The poster of Aayush's 'Ruslaan' is a visual marvel. It rightly captures his evolution from a romantic heartthrob to a dynamic action hero. It serves as a thrilling sneak peek into what promises to be groundbreaking.

Front and centre on this snazzy poster is Aayush's visage. Yet, it's the ingenious incorporation of a guitar that effortlessly morphs into a gun, cutting through the poster and partially obscuring Aayush's countenance, that truly catches the eye.

This image encapsulates the essence of the film's transformative narrative. The guitar, reminiscent of Aayush's romantic roots, metamorphoses into a potent weapon, symbolising his newfound prowess in the action genre after 'Antim'.

Talking about the same, Aayush said: "As an actor, I've strived to embrace change, challenge my own limits, and carve a new path. 'Ruslaan' is not just a film for me; it's about shifting gears and experimenting."

"It's about breaking the mould, and I hope it inspires others to push their boundaries, just as I have pushed mine, and emerge stronger, fiercer, and ever more passionate about their work," he added.

Director Karan L. Butani shared: "As a director, my canvas is the screen, and every frame is a stroke of storytelling. I paint emotions, dreams, and realities, weaving them into a tapestry of cinematic magic."

"With each project, I aim to ignite the audience's imagination and stir their souls, creating an indelible connection that transcends the boundaries of the screen," added Karan.
NASA scientists have discovered a significant problem when trying to open a container with samples of the asteroid Bennu, which was delivered to Earth as part of the OSIRIS-REx mission. It turned out that 2 out of 35 fasteners could not be removed using the available tools.

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The Futurism publication tells about the incident. At the same time, NASA's mission to return samples from the asteroid has already become a success in itself.

Preliminary analysis of samples found outside the main storage container revealed that the asteroid's material is rich in both water and carbon. These findings support the theory that space rocks like Bennu could have played an important role in the development of life on our planet.

However, when the scientists, encouraged by their initial success, tried to get inside the container, called the Touch-and-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM), which holds the lion's share of the samples, they found that it would not be so easy.

According to NASA, the OSIRIS-REx team found that "two of the 35 fasteners on the TAGSAM head cannot be removed with current tools authorized for use in the 'box.

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Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that the asteroid Dimorphos, which was hit by NASA, began to behave chaotically and is probably falling.

Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.
Toronto, Oct 26 : A 24-year-old Indian-origin man is facing 16 charges for attempting to steal a vehicle and pepper-spraying responding police officers in the Canadian province of Ontario.

Rajbir Singh from Brampton was charged recently with two counts each of assaulting a peace officer, assault with intent to resist arrest, failure to comply with a release order, and possession of a controlled substance.

He also faces one count each of possession of an imitation weapon, breach of probation and theft of a motor vehicle, as well as a handful of other offences, CTV news channel reported.

The Peel Regional Police said that on the evening of October 6, officers were investigating a vehicle in a hotel parking lot with a suspicious license plate when the driver allegedly attempted to flee, causing damage to several vehicles.

As Singh was running away from the police, he unsuccessfully tried to steal a vehicle and carjack another, the report said citing police.

When officers located him, he allegedly pepper sprayed them before being taken into custody.

The officers sustained minor injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene.

In addition to the 16 charges, Singh is also facing charges related to five separate incidents last year for similar offences.

Meanwhile, the Peel police said on Thursday that it is also looking for another Indo-Canadian, 26-year-old Gurprit Singh from Brampton, who recklessly drove through a crowded parking lot to escape chasing police officers.

A warrant has been issued against Gurprit for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, obstructing a peace officer and flight from a peace officer.

Earlier this month, Navjot Singh (21), attempted to carjack a vehicle before stealing a landscaping truck hours after being released on bail in Newmarket town in Ontario.
San Francisco, Oct 26 : Chip-maker Intel is reportedly working with multiple consulting firms to build ChatGPT-like apps for customers, as AI boom catches up with almost every tech company especially rival chipmakers such as Nvidia and Broadcom.

According to a report in The Information, citing sources, Intel is also selling its specialised AI, app-building software directly to corporate customers.

"Intel began the project with Boston Consulting Group (BCG) earlier this year but has added additional consulting-firm partners," the report mentioned.

Intel was yet to comment on the report.

In May this year, BCG and Intel announced a strategic collaboration to enable generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) using end-to-end Intel AI hardware and software, bringing fully custom and proprietary solutions to enterprise clients while keeping private data in the isolation of their trusted environments.

Together with a custom natural language chatbot interface powered by Intel AI hardware and software, BCG employees were able to retrieve and summarise information via semantic search that was previously buried in long lists of multi-page documents.

"Generative AI requires a truly democratised approach that enables more secure and scalable choice so enterprises can safely benefit from the technology," according to Sandra Rivera, executive vice president and general manager of the Data Center and AI Group, Intel.

"Our collaboration with BCG allows us to help customers build generative AI applications that require technology optimized across the entire stack completely inside their chosen security perimeter," Rivera had said in an earlier statement.

Intel has also teased a "Windows refresh" for 2024, reportedly preparing its Meteor Lake desktop platform for Windows 12 amid AI push.

The company recently previewed the next generation of Intel Xeon processors, revealing that 5th Gen Intel Xeon processors will bring a combination of performance improvements and faster memory, while using the same amount of power, to the world's data centres when they launch on December 14.

Intel has said that AI is giving rise to the 'Siliconomy,' a new era of global expansion driven by the magic of silicon and software where AI PCs will dominate our lives.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : China has roped in Pakistan and Belarus to its moon programme that aims to construct a permanent lunar base in the 2030s.

China-led International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) programme now has seven nations -- Russia, Belarus, Pakistan, Azerbaijan, Venezuela and South Africa, SpaceNews reported.

It is in direct competition with the NASA-led Artemis Programme, which aims to place astronauts on the lunar surface by 2030, and has the support of 29 nations to date, including India, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea and the UK.

On October 23, Vladimir Gusakov, chairman of the Presidium of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus (NASB) and Zhang Kejian, China National Space Administration (CNSA) administrator, signed a joint declaration on cooperation on the ILRS programme.

"According to the joint declaration, the parties will cooperate in the process of creating and operating the ILRS," the NASB said in a statement.

"The areas of cooperation will be fundamental and applied research in the field of engineering and technologies for space use, new materials andelectronic component base, training and advanced training of scientific personnel and specialists. By mutual agreement, the parties shall determine other areas of cooperation," it added.

This was days after Pakistan's interim prime minister, Anwaar ul Haq Kakar signed an agreement with Chinese Premier Li Qiang to carry out "extensive cooperation in the demonstration, implementation, operation and application of the ILRS, as well as training and other areas", according to a CNSA statement.

Pakistan is already involved in the Chang'e-6 lunar sample return mission, due to launch in mid-2024. It is also working on the ICUBE-Q cubesat for the mission in cooperation with China's Shanghai Jiaotong University.

Belarus and Pakistan's partnership with the ILRS programme is more political than of technical relevance, Victoria Samson, Washington Office Director for Secure World Foundation, was quoted as saying told SpaceNews.

"Pakistan does not have its own launch capabilities -- it depends on China for that -- and Pakistan has only 3 active satellites on orbit, while China has over 800," Samson wrote in an email.

"So in terms of it contributing substantively to the ILRS, I'm not entirely certain it will have a lot of technical things to add. But there is something to be said for political support and it is a statement endorsing China's moon plans if nothing else."

Similarly Belarus has only three active satellites in orbit. It likewise has long-standing military ties with China. China built and launched the DFH-4-based Belintersat 1 communications satellite to geostationary orbit for Belarus in 2016.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 26 : A thief, who stole a gold necklace from a three-year-old kid, in an act of repentance returned the money earned from selling it, along with an apology letter.

This incident occurred near Palakkad a few days back, when a thief robbed a gold necklace weighing 1.75 sovereigns from a three-year-old kid.

The family came to realise about the missing necklace later and then started a massive search under the impression the kid had unknowingly dropped the necklace somewhere.

But despite their best efforts, they were unable to locate it.

However a few days later they discovered an envelope placed near the kitchen, with money and apology note.

The letter was from the thief who apologised for his crime and it said,after he sold the necklace, a sense of deep guilt fell on him andhence though he has sold the necklace for Rs 55,500, he is returning the entire money and they should forgive him.
Jerusalem, Oct 26 : The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on Thursday confirmed of carrying out an airstrike targeting "Hamas terrorist infrastructure" in Gaza where 12 members of an Al Jazeera journalist's family were killed the previous day.

The strike hit a house in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, where relatives of Al Jazeera's Gaza bureau chief Wael Al-Dahdouh were taking shelter after being displaced, CNN quoted the Qatar-based news network as saying.

Al-Dahdouh's wife, son, daughter and grandson were among those killed.

aStrikes on military targets are subject to relevant provisions of international law, including the taking of feasible precautions to mitigate civilian casualties," the IDF said in a statement to CNN on Thursday.

"Regarding this specific case, the IDF targeted Hamas terrorist infrastructure in the area."

The family's displacement followed Israel's evacuation call ordering some 1 million people to move to the southern part of the besieged enclave on October 13, Xinhua news agency reported.

Footage on Al Jazeera English news channel shows Al-Dahdouh entering a hospital to see his slain family members.

In a statement on X, Al Jazeera confirmed the death of Al-Dahdouh's family members and extended condolence.

"The Al Jazeera Media Network extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to our colleague Weal Al-Dahdouh on the loss of his family in an Israeli airstrike," the statement said.

"Al Jazeera is deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of our colleagues in Gaza and hold the Israeli authorities responsible for their security," it added.

According to the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, 24 journalists have been killed, some with their families, and dozens more have been wounded since the beginning of the Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip in retaliation to the massive Hamas attack on October 7.

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has so far killed more than 6,500 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and more than 1,400 people in Israel.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : In a shocking incident, the body of a convict has gone missing from the mortuary of the state-run S.S.K.M. Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata.

The family members of the victim, identified as Bablu Pollee, have claimed that he was first beaten to death in custody and his body parts were sold.

But Kolkata Police have claimed that someone had claimed the body by mistake and performed the last rites.

Hospital authorities are yet to comment on the development.

Pollee was serving his prison sentence on charges of murdering his landlord.

His family members claimed that on October 21, they were informed by the police that Pollee died in custody and his body had been shifted to the S.S.K.M. mortuary.

However when they went to the hospital, they did not find the body and the hospital authorities also did not provide any information.

The family was informed by the police on Thursday that Pollee's body was handed over to someone by mistake.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, who is known for 'Gangs of Wasseypur', 'Bajrangi Bhaijaan', 'Sacred Games', Serious Men', and others, started shooting for his upcoming yet-to-be-titled thriller film on Thursday.

The film's screenplay has been written by the National Award winning writer Bhavesh Mandalia, and promises to transport viewers back to the intriguing era of the 1990s, a time of unique stories and unforgettable experiences. The project commenced filming on Thursday in Mumbai, with a shoot schedule spanning approximately 40 days.

Talking about the film, Nawazuddin Siddiqui said: "I'm thrilled to be a part of this incredible film produced by Vinod Bhanushali. Sejal Shah's transition from a prolific producer to director is inspiring, and I am excited to work with her again after 'Serious Men.' This film is going to be a rollercoaster of emotions and a memorable journey for both the team and the audience."

The film is being helmed by Sejal Shah, who has worked with Nawaz on the Emmy nominated 'Serious Men'.

Sejal Shahsaid: "I'm thrilled to helm this project. Working with a brilliant actor like Nawazuddin Siddiqui and being supported by Vinod Bhanushali and the entire team makes this an exciting directorial foray."

The yet-to-be-titled thriller is produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Sejal Shah and Bhavesh Mandalia.
Tumakuru : , Oct 26 (IANS) Karnataka Forest Department on Thursday arrested three Odisha natives for allegedly killing peacocks for their meat in Maranayakanapalya village of the district.

Those arrested have been identified as Bitting Nayak, Baishak Davu and Duba Kapat.

According to the authorities, the accused worked at a brick factory in Maranayakanapalya and killed peacocks for their meat calling it "sturdy and tasty".

They were into a killing spree of peacocks in the village and on getting an information, the police got into action.

The police have seized 1.5 kilograms of raw peacock meat, two chopped legs, and the cooked meat of the bird.

In addition, nets, trap equipment and vessels used to cook peacock meat were also recovered.

The meat was sent to the FSL for testing and the accused are being tried under the Preservation of Wildlife Act.

Further investigation is on.
Buenos Aires, Oct 26 : Argentina's third placed presidential candidate Patricia Bullrich has announced her support for far-right contender Javier Milei for next month's runoff election.

Addressing reporters late Wednesday, Bullrich, a candidate of the conservative alliance Together for Change who was placed third in Sunday's election, announced her backing for Milei, a candidate from the far-right Liberty Advances coalition, reports Xinhua news agency.

"The urgency challenges us not to be neutral," said Bullrich, a centre-right politician and Argentina's security minister from 2015 to 2019.

She garnered nearly 24 per cent of the votes in the first round of elections, compared to 37 per cent for Economy Minister Sergio Massa and 30 per cent for Milei.

"We have differences with Milei, but we have the obligation not to be neutral. We must join forces for a higher goal," said Bullrich, referring to the competition with Massa, a candidate of the ruling Union for the Homeland coalition.

The Together for Change alliance, which governed Argentina between 2015 and 2019 under the leadership of then-president Mauricio Macri, comprises three parties, two of which refused to back Milei.

The winner of the runoff, scheduled for November 19, will succeed incumbent President Alberto Fernandez from December 10, 2023, to December 10, 2027.

The runoff was necessitated as neither Milei nor Massa could garner more than 45 per cent of the votes required to be elected.

Sunday's election saw a voter turnout of 74 per cent.

As well as choosing its new president and vice-president, Argentinians also voted for 130 new representatives for the lower house of Congress, which has 257 members, and 24 new senators for the 72-member upper house.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Delhi High Court has dismissed a petition challenging the appointment of senior IAS officer Nidhi Chhibber as the chairman of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) as part of a bureaucratic reshuffle.

The plea, filed by the Independent School Federation of India, alleged that Chhibber did not meet the necessary terms and conditions for the CBSE Chairman position.

However, Justice Chandra Dhari Singh rejected this claim, stating that no prima facie case had been made out by the petitioner.

Justice Singh further asserted that the petition was a "gross misuse of the process of law."

He also clarified that the court was not inclined to issue a writ of quo warranto in this case, as Chhibber met the qualifications required for the position of the Chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education.

The petitioner Federation not only challenged Chhibber's appointment but also sought her discontinuation from the post. They requested the production of records related to her eligibility and experience for the role.

In response, Chhibber submitted an affidavit, stating that she had worked in the Education department for 48 months in the cadre of Director and above.

Her counsel argued that the allegations made in the petition were incorrect, and she met the qualifications and experience criteria outlined in the 2015 vacancy circular for the position.

After reviewing Chhibber's affidavit and the executive record sheet, the court found that she met the required criteria for the position.

It clarified that the writ of quo warranto is issued when a person holding a public office is found to lack the necessary qualifications for the position. In this case, Chhibber was deemed eligible for the role.

Justice Singh concluded that the petition was a misuse of the legal process and subsequently dismissed the petition along with any pending applications.
Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has once again become a laughingstock online. The day before, the war criminal held a meeting in the Kremlin with representatives of religious associations, but again kept an extraordinary distance.

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Footage from the event posted online shows that all participants were sitting at a huge square table. At the same time, Putin himself was on one side, and all the church representatives were on the other.

Commentators burst out with jokes about this. Some suggested that the dictator was afraid, while others argued that this was done so that no one would recognize that Putin was not the real one but a double.

"Not every snuffbox will reach the middle of such a table," "Jesus kept a smaller distance during his sermons," "This is a pool, not a table," "Maybe so that the artificial cheekbones would not be noticed? Oh yes, sorry. There are no doubles," "The old man stinks, everyone just sat back," "Oil painting 'Antichrist and the Godless,'" "Judas and the 13 Apostles," "P-paranoia," they wrote online.

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News is updated...
Los Angeles, Oct 26 : 'Scarface' star Al Pacino and girlfriend Noor Alfallah dismissed rumours about their split as they headed out for a date night in Los Angeles.

The 83-year-old actor was spotted with the producer, 29, going for dinner at Pace Italian restaurant, just days after she was enjoying a playful date with Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, reports Mirror.co.uk.

Noor, who gave birth to their son Roman in June, reportedly filed for sole custody of their child. The producer had filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court and along with reasonable visitation, she had also requested that the award-winning actor have "joint legal custody."

However, the couple defied the rumours and enjoyed a romantic outing in Los Angeles, with Noor walking ahead of the veteran Hollywood icon as he ambled behind her.

As per Mirror.co.uk, she dressed casually for the occasion, rocking a pair of black drawstring trousers and a cropped leather jacket, while Al tried to keep a low profile with a dark coat and sunglasses.

A spokesperson for the 'Scarface' star shut down reports of their break-up with a statement, as they told DailyMail.com that the couple have "mutually reached an agreement regarding their son", and were still together. "Al and Noor have successfully worked together and have mutually reached agreements regarding their child Roman. They are together. They haven't split," they added.

Noor's date night with Al comes just a few days after she was spotted having a playful lunch outing with Prince Alexander von Furstenberg, the son of fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg and Prince Egon von Furstenberg. The duo indulged in lunch and were captured hugging and being touchy-feely while waiting for their valet in the queue.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A Delhi court on Thursday posted the hearing for arguments on the quantum of sentence against five individuals convicted in the 2008 murder case of TV journalist Soumya Vishwanathan, for November 7.

On October 18, the court had convicted four accused under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) provisions and one for receiving stolen property.

Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Ravindra Kumar Pandey of Saket Courts took note of the fact that certain documents, including the pre-sentencing report (PSR) by the probationary officer, as well as the affidavits of the five convicts, had not yet been filed.

In response, the judge ordered the preparation of these reports and affidavits and scheduled further proceedings for November 7.

Four of the accused, Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Ajay Kumar and Baljeet Malik, have been convicted under MCOCA provisions and Ajay Sethi for receiving stolen property.

On September 30, 2008, Vishwanathan was shot dead on the Nelson Mandela Marg while returning home from work in her car. The accused were arrested in connection with the murder and have been in custody since March 2009.

The police had attributed the motive behind her killing to robbery, and had invoked the stringent MCOCA against the accused. Malik, Kapoor and Shukla were previously convicted in the 2009 killing of IT executive Jigisha Ghosh.

In Ghosh's murder, the trial court sentenced Kapoor and Shukla to death and awarded a life term to Malik.

Subsequently, in the following year, the High Court commuted the death sentences of Kapoor and Shukla to life imprisonment while upholding Malik's life term in the Ghosh murder case.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : The Ambedkar University Dalit Students Union (AUDSU) has lodged a protest against the university administration for permitting rituals to be conducted by a group of right-wing students at a Shiv temple located within the campus premises during Navratri.

They are urging the university to construct a place of worship, akin to a church, gurudwara, or mosque, in order to respect the religious sentiments of students from various faiths.

"The university must acknowledge the diverse religious backgrounds of its student body. All students hold strong beliefs in their respective religions. There should be no space for religious activities on the campus; only academic events should be allowed. The leadership of BBAU should contemplate our request and create a place of worship for students from different religious backgrounds," stated Dheeraj Kumar from the law department, representing the Dalit student union of the university.

The Dalit student union contends that the university should not have permitted the construction of a Shiv temple on the campus in the first place; this temple was built in 2014.

They allege that the university has extended invitations to RSS leaders and allowed the entry of "right-wingers" for events, thereby "compromising" the campus' secular ethos.

Dalit students expressed their discontent as "right-wingers" were allowed to conduct hawan and rituals at the Shiv mandir during Navratri. They argue that the university must respect the religious sentiments of students of all faiths or should not allow rituals exclusive to one religion.

Meanwhile, the university administration clarified that they had not granted permission for hawan rituals to be performed. These rituals have been a routine practice for several years.
India saw more than one lakh Schengen visa rejections in 2022. Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Oct 26 : With the arrest of three men, the Delhi Police Crime Branch on Thursday claimed to have busted a gang involved in duping thousands of people across the country on pretext of offering visas to Canada and Gulf countries.

The accused were identified as Tarun Kumar (43), Vinayak alias Binni (29), and Jaswinder Singh (25), all residents of Punjab.

The Special Commissioner of Police (Crime), Ravinder Singh Yadav, revealed that they received information about multiple people being defrauded by a company known as "Birla-G," based in Chandigarh, Punjab.

This company promised to provide Canadian Visas but eventually supplied counterfeit visas to the victims.

"Investigative efforts led to the identification of the culprits, Tarun and Karan, who were operating under the guise of another business named 'Chandigarh to Abroad' at Sector-34A, Chandigarh. They were involved in deceiving numerous innocent citizens," said the Special CP.

Throughout the investigation, the team compiled a comprehensive set of evidence, including Call Detail Records (CDR), Customer Application Forms (CAF), Internet Protocol Detail Records (IPDR), recharge histories, bank statements, IP logs, online wallets, and GST-related data.

"Through the use of Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT), email addresses linked to mobile numbers used by the fraudsters were identified," said the officer.

A raid was conducted at the Chandigarh to Abroad office, where Tarun was apprehended. "The search of the office yielded various fake and forged documents, laptops, passports containing counterfeit visas, a barcode maker, laminator machines, rolls, and stationery used for creating forged documents, as well as stamps from multiple firms and international banks," said Yadav.

It was discovered that Tarun had been operating the office under the identity of one of his employees, Jaswinder Singh. "Tarun admitted to procuring forged visas from a person named Vinayak, who was running an office under the name 'Shri Sai Education' at Sector 34 Chandigarh, Punjab. Consequently, Tarun, Jaswinder, and Vinayak were arrested," said Yadav.

During interrogations, it became evident that Tarun was the mastermind behind this fraudulent operation.

"Despite having only completed 12th grade, he hired graduate employees to facilitate the acquisition of a Manpower licence from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, using the names of these hired employees," said the officer.

This tactic was designed to deceive law enforcement agencies. "Tarun reached out to potential clients through social media advertisements and subsequent phone calls in various states, offering consultation and visa arrangement services," said the officer.

He charged victims amounts ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs two lakhs in advance, depending on the destination country.

"The fees were ostensibly for various stages of visa approval, such as application fees, medical fees, and job offer letter fees, followed by the presentation of counterfeit visas via WhatsApp photographs. In this manner, clients were defrauded of approximately Rs 15 to 20 lakhs in total," said the officer.

Tarun Kumar employed over 20 staff members in various roles, including telecallers, account managers, and liaisons to entice customers.

"To date, he has victimised more than a thousand individuals from different states across the country," the officer added.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : The jail museum in south Kolkata, in all probability, will be the new and unique venue for the annual post-Durga Puja gathering hosted by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for industrialists and celebrities from the state.

The event this year will be organised either in the first or second week of November, sources from the state secretariat said.

The gathering this year is of special significance considering that it is perceived as the curtain raiser for the Bengal Global Business Summit, 2023.

The annual event held in Kolkata from November 21 to November 23 is organised by the West Bengal government to showcase the state as an ideal investment destination.

Every year, the post-Puja gathering is held at Eco Park in New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata. "However, this time the CM is keen on having the event at the jail museum in south Kolkata. Although nothing has been officially finalised in the matter, in all probability the jail museum will be the new venue for the post-Puja gathering," said a state government official aware of the development.

He added that the jail museum, which has a lot of modern facilities, can be the ideal venue for the event.

"The museum building is done up well with an ambience of nostalgia and at the same time it has all the facilities for accommodating social gatherings, including a modern cafeteria," the state government official said.

Besides, industrialists and celebrities, top bureaucrats, police officers and members of the state cabinet are also scheduled to be present on the occasion.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Actress Manasi Joshi Roy, who is currently seen in the show 'Kyunki... Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai', is a major foodie, and has made a group to chat about who will bring what in their lunchbox on the sets.

The groupas name is aWhatas in your dabba?a where everyone puts up a message to discuss the lunch menu.

Talking about the same, Manasi said: "Being a major foodie, I enjoy sharing my food and love feeding people. In the initial days, I used to come on the set and ask everyone what they have got for lunch. Later I just made a group called aWhatas in your dabba?a to chat with all my co-stars about their lunch plans."

"Most of us get lunch from home, so every morning, everyone puts up a message telling who is bringing what, and whoever does not, I tell them to just get their appetite to the table, because we always have enough food for everyone. And because Ekta Saraiya and I are the two true Gujjus on set, we always have a basket full of snacks, so whenever someone is hungry, they know where to find it," she said.

She added: "I just feel that eating together builds a great bond, the half an hour we get on the set where we are not working, just relaxing, enjoying our meal, and having fun, is really precious. From our directors, DOP, and other cast members, we all set up a big table during lunchtime and keep our dabbas there for everyone to eat, itas like potluck day, but every day."

'Kyunkia Saas Maa, Bahu Beti Hoti Hai' touches upon its protagonist Ambikaas (Manasi) endeavor of disproving a general notion that aSaas kabhi maa, aur Bahu kabhi beti nahi ban saktia through a landmark decision of adopting a girl child but raising her as a bahu and not beti, who will keep the family together after growing up.

In the recent episodes, the viewers witnessed how Hetal (Dolphin Dubey) has been creating issues in Kesaras (Navika Kotia) life and trying to turn her fiance Suraj (Lakshay Khurana) against her.

The upcoming episodes will witness how despite Hetalas brutal behavior towards Kesar, Kesar fights back with Ambika to get Hetal back to the Rajguar house, because her house gets sold in the auction.

The show airs on Zee TV.
Patna, October 26 : The Railway Protection Force (RPF) have arrested two youths for making a video at the Gaya Junction in Bihar without any permission from authorities, officials said on Thursday.

An FIR has been registered in GRP police station Gaya for creating nuisance and obstructing passengers and government officials.

The accused were identified as Amit Kumar and Avinash Kumar, both residents of the city's Tikari area.

While one was shooting the video, the other was dancing to a lod Bhojpuri song on platform 3.

"They (accused) were creating nuisance and obstructing passengers and railway staff at a time when the New Delhi-bound 12397 Mahabodhi Express was scheduled to depart on Wednesday evening. Due to the music and dance, people were distracted," said an RPF officer.

"When we asked for the permission letter for making videos on the platform, they failed to provide us with one. We also asked them to show platform tickets which they did not carry. Hence, we took them into custody and lodged an FIR in GRP railway station of Gaya. Further legal action is underway," he said.
Dubai, Oct 26 : The Dubai Police have arrested an Indian expat accused of defrauding 150 UAE nationals by accepting advance payments to the tune of 3 million dirhams for a Haj pilgrimage that never materialised, a media report said.

Shabin Rasheed, 44, who runs the Sharjah-based Baitul Ateeq travel agency, was taken into police custody earlier this month after people complained that he left him in a lurch and did not refund the money, the Khaleej Times newspaper reported on Wednesday.

"If missing out on Haj wasn't bad enough, we also have our money stuck," said Mohammad Saquib, a Dubai resident, who had booked the pilgrimage package with Rasheed.

Rasheed initially apologised claiming that a last-minute change in visa issuance caused the issues and promised to refund payments.

Last month however, Rasheed said that he is selling his property in India for refunds and is exploring a compensation case against a Saudi company, citing financial loss, defamation and emotional damage.

But the refunds never came through, following which the residents filed a police complaint.

A notification regarding Rasheed's arrest was sent by the Dubai Police to the clients of Baitul Ateeq.

Following this, a Baitul Ateeq representative reached out to individuals awaiting refunds via WhatsApp, confirming the news.

"We regretfully inform you that Shabin is under custody due to a report made by some Haj members. Thus, we can't respond to any progress related to refunding until his release," the message shared by Khaleej Times read.

"However, our partner in Saudi is still working on refunding from there. We are in dire need of your patience and support during this time," the message added.

Dubai resident Saquib Imam, who had paid Dh20,000 around this time last year, said he has received only Dh5,000 so far.

The report said it remained unclear as to how many police complaints were filed against the company or how many clients have been partially refunded.

Earlier, Rasheed claimed to have refunded 20 individuals, but failed to provide evidence in terms of names and contact numbers despite repeated requests by the newspaper.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A retailer was stabbed to death by unknown assailants following a quarrel over some issue on Thursday, police said.

The deceased was identified as Rajesh.

"Information was received from BJRM Hospital at Mahendra Park police station regarding a body following which a police team was dispatched for the hospital," said a senior police officer.

"The deceased identified as Rajesh was a small ginger retailer. When he was going to vegetable market, he entered into a quarrel with some unknown persons," said the officer.

"The unknown assailants stabbed him. He sustained five incised wounds and later succumbed to injuries. Legal action is being taken. Further investigation is in progress," the officer added.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Delhi government on Thursday launched its 'Red Light On, Gaadi Off' campaign to counter the air pollution in the city that peeks around this time of the year.

State Environment Minister Gopal Rai kicked off the drive by distributing red roses to the public at the ITO red light to encourage them to turn off their vehicles while waiting at the traffic signals.

While interacting with media, the minister said that every day a person stops at least 10-15 red lights and keeps the vehicles on for at least half an hour on average.

If they stop the vehicle during that time then they can make a significant contribution in stopping air pollution.

The campaign is part of a slew of initiatives taken by the Delhi government to tackle the problem of air pollution in the national capital.

The volunteers and other officials present with the environment minister were seen holding up placards that urged people to stop their vehicles while at red light.

They were seen interacting with people at the ITO red light about how turning off vehicles at a red light can reduce air pollution by upto 20 per cent.

Meanwhile, the air quality in the national Capital continued in the 'Poor' category as the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) of the city reached 256 on Thursday morning, according to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR).
First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska pays special attention to the mental health problems of Ukrainians, which have become more acute and widespread in the context of a full-scale war. The President's wife spoke about the importance of taking care of her psychological state in a conversation with her general practitioner, Tetiana Petrova, for the new issue of Vogue Ukraine.

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In addition to the interesting conversation, readers also noticed Zelenska's stylish photo shoot for the article. She appeared on the pages in an elegant and restrained yet trendy look.

Thus, the first lady chose a beige polo blouse with a distinctive collar and buttons. The highlight of this element of the outfit was the trendy sleeves, which were just above the elbow. The look also consisted of straight black trousers that successfully emphasized the waist. Light styling and delicate makeup successfully fit into the overall picture.

The wife of the Ukrainian guarantor emphasized that compatriots should take care of their mental health, in particular by seeking help from a psychologist. However, Zelenska herself admitted that she does not have a personal therapist. She says that she is currently unable to share many things that bother her for safety reasons.

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"I would love to see a specialist, but I can't be frank. I have nothing to hide, but now there are details, primarily domestic ones, that I cannot disclose. So for now, I am resorting to self-help techniques, in particular, following the advice of the methodology published on the special page of the 'How are you?' program. Slow breathing and meditation help," the First Lady said.

Zelenska also met with geneticist and pathophysiologist Viktor Dosenko. He told her that only 20% of Ukrainians will be diagnosed with PTSD, which is post-traumatic stress disorder. The majority of us will show mental flexibility and recover, and the lucky ones, according to statistics, about 25% of them, will even get post-traumatic growth, that is, they will become a better version of themselves: more courageous, free, and conscious citizens.

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Zelenska chose a different outfit, refined and simple, completely in the style of the first lady. She wore a black high turtleneck and a classic jacket with a slightly fitted silhouette.

As a reminder, October 10 was World Mental Health Day. In honor of this date, Olena Zelenska, together with Ukrainian stars, recorded a touching video. The president's wife, as well as artists, presenters, designers, comedians, and bloggers, read the poem "How are you?" written by musician Dmytro Monatik.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA wrote about five fall looks of Olena Zelenska that are worth repeating. They are sophisticated and restrained but at the same time very stylish.

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Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Mumbai, Oct 26 : The creator of thriller drama 'Aarya' season three, Ram Madhvani, opened up about his meeting with Sushmita Sen and how she found her own divine connection with the name and accepted the role immediately.

In a revealing insight, Madhvani shared the story behind the name 'Aarya'. He said: "The first time I met Sushmita to offer her the role, she asked about the name of the series, and I said 'Aarya'. She immediately recognised it as another name for Goddess Durga, which she was familiar with."

"Sushmita, being from Bengal, referred to it as 'Dugga Dugga' on her social media posts. This connection to Goddess Durga may have been one of the reasons she accepted the role. It's a name I had been fascinated by for many years," he said.

Madhvani added: "I've been working on the show for three seasons, but before that, I had been working for eight years, and I thought about the name even back then."

In the upcoming season, Aarya has her eyes set on the supply and transportation of the narcotic drug but is intercepted by Ila Arun, who herself is the undisputed queen on the supply side. Hot on Aaryaas heels is ACP Khan who after being preoccupied in the second season is back with vengeance and will do anything in his capacity to put an end to Aaryaas illegal drug empire.

As Aarya gets cornered, she goes for the kill with impunity as she has Daulat by her side. The following shots present intense action and a showdown where a wounded Aarya draws out the swords to slash anyone who lays hands on her kids.

After receiving an International Emmy Award Nomination for season one, and two successful seasons, the wait ends as the fan favourite franchise returns with its third season with newer challenges, newer enemies and with a newer ambition.

Created and co-directed by Ram Madhvani and co-produced by Amita Madhavni, Ram Madhvani, Ram Madhvani Films and Endemol Shine India, aAarya 3a will air on Disney+ Hotstar from November 3.
Jaipur, Oct 26 : After ED conducted raids on the premises of state Congress President Govind Singh Dotasara and summoned Rajasthan Chief Minister's son Vaibhav, Ashok Gehlot on Thursday attacked the central government, accusing it of misusing the investigating agencies.

"These people are using ED like locusts. The way locusts come here from Pakistan, they eat everything and destroy crops. ED has also attacked like locusts," he said.

"This is not a trivial matter. There is no case against Dotasra and Vaibhav Gehlot and raids are conducted without a case," he added.

Gehlot said, "Wherever elections are held, ED-Income Tax raids start there first. Raids were conducted 22 times in Karnataka, Congress won there. The wind of Congress is blowing in Chhattisgarh, raids are going on continuously there. The Chief Minister is being continuously harassed there. In Rajasthan, I have said many times that the people feel like repeating the government, that is why they are facing problems. They are scaring and threatening people. Wherever ED has conducted raids, Congress government has been formed there. Same thing will happen in Rajasthan also."

Gehlot said: "ED conducted 108 searches between 2004 and 2014 during UPA rule. These searches were done on the basis of genuine complaints. At that time challans were presented against 104 out of 108. 3010 raids were conducted during the nine-year tenure of the NDA government. Of these, charge sheet was presented in only 881 cases, which is only 39 per cent. In the UPA government, there were 93 per cent challans."

"If someone joins BJP, the person gets rid of all wrongdoings. What allegations did the PM not make about Ajit Pawar? He joined the government in Maharashtra. He was made Deputy CM and Finance Minister. What will you say about making the person Finance Minister against whom allegations were made the?," Gehlot questioned

Regarding the summons to his son, Gehlot said, "I have been hearing for about 5-10 years that a complaint has been made against him. Yesterday ED summon came asking him to appear on October 26. We are not afraid of these people, tomorrow we are going to give five more guarantees to Rajasthan."

Gehlot further said that there was a complaint against Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in investment matters in Ethiopia. SOG is repeatedly requesting ED to take action, but no action has been taken.

"ED cannot come without pressure from top. How many times have we requested the ED in the Sanjeevani case, but the investigation has not been done till now. Gajendra Shekhawat has properties in many countries including Ethiopia. We requested ED, but no one cared, said Gehlot.

"What will be left if the country's premium agencies like CBI, ED, Income Tax do not have credibility? These agencies had credibility. Today the opposite is happening. The situation prevailing today is a worrying situation. The question is not about raids on the locations of my son and PCC Chief. The question is about the credibility of these agencies. These agencies have created terror in the entire country. In Chhattisgarh, ED officers have taken houses on rent there for the last 6-7 months. They have settled there because action has to be taken every day," he added.

Gehlot said, "The raid on the party chief matters No case registered, no complaint, yet the raid was conducted directly."

He also said that what is the credibility of Rajya Sabha MP Kirodi Lal Meena, who made complaint to ED in this matter?

Gehlot said, "Kirodi Lal Meena went inside the locker and sat on strike saying that Rs 500 crores were lying inside. Tomorrow one of our leaders will go and stage a protest saying that there is Rs 800 crore at such and such a place, will ED come? What was the work of ED in the Ganpati Plaza lockers case? This was the work of the Income Tax Department."

Gehlot said that Govind Singh Dotasra is the son of a farmer. "Ever since he joined politics, he has been working day and night. There was no let up in raising the voice of every section in the Assembly also. No one can defend our governance the way he has, that is why he has been targeted," he added.

Gehlot said, "We are not going to panic. No leader of the Congress party is going to panic. No matter how much they misuse ED-Income Tax."

He said, "Right now, we have given two guarantees and our two leaders raided. We are going to give five more guarantees. First decide which five more leaders are to be raided. Instead of winning the hearts of the people with your policies and programmes, you are acting like a bully."

"Vaibhav Gehlot had a taxi business with Ratan Sharma, from whom they later separated. Vaibhav Gehlot has been summoned in a 10-year-old case. Vaibhav Gehlot had a capital of around Rs 25 lakh. The company under that hotel is giving answers on how many shares were sold and to whom," the CM said.

Congress' state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa said, "BJP should also include ED and Income Tax in its lotus symbol. ED has come to promote BJP in Rajasthan. Can't ED go to Madhya Pradesh and Haryana? There are allegations against their leaders. Why are ED raids taking place only in Congress-ruled states?"

Former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot also commented on ED raids. "We are not afraid of these raids. Due to this, BJP's nervousness is visible in Rajasthan," he added.
Tel Aviv, Oct 26 : Israeli intelligence agency Shin Bet and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have conducted joint raids starting Wednesday night that resulted in the arrest of 60 persons on charges of affiliation to Hamas.

Based on tip-offs given by Shin Bet, the IDF conducted the raids inside the Gaza border, the IDF said in a statement on Thursday. The IDF is preparing for a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip for which troops have been deployed at the borders.

Meanwhile, the IDF has moved tanks into the Gaza Strip and destroyed some terror check-posts and missile launching pads.
Mumbai, October 26 : After unveiling an intriguing and viral first look, the crime drama thriller film 'Apurva' has released its official trailer. A dark and gritty feature, the trailer mixes in elements of neo-noir and dacoit drama with a Bollywood touch, as actress Tara Sutaria essays the role of a hardened survivor.

The trailer for 'Apurva' starts off with an element that is very reminiscent of the gritty and bleak nature of something like the American crime series 'Breaking Bad' orthe Bollywood film 'NH10'.

Starting off in the middle of a desert as ruthless robbers begin shooting people, it cuts to the more typical Bollywood style romance as Tara Sutaria's character is gearing up for her wedding.

Wanting to surprise her beau on his birthday, Apurva heads off to Agra only to be targeted by a dacoit gang who hijack her bus and take her captive leading to a potential assault.

Coming up in a very surprising role, comic veteran Rajpal Yadav forgoes the comedy and instead dons the role of a very menacing and serious gangster. Telling his members to dump Apurva in the desert after being done with her, she manages to escape from them and starts hiding from her captors.

While hiding from them, Rajpal Yadav tells his gang members to forget about the girl and tells them that they were going to rob a truck, with the girl not being any kind of priority.

At this point, Abhishek Banerjeesteps up as a much more evil and sadistic gangster telling his leader that he can go after the truck but his priority is the girl.

After seemingly bashing the head of someone with a brick, Apurva is hiding inside a well in the final shot as Abhishek's character is searching for her and seemingly finds her.

Describing her new project, Tara Sutaria said: "I am overwhelmed by the immense love and appreciation that our first look has received. 'Apurva' has been the most challenging and rewarding experience for me with regard to performance and it is also starkly different from any role I've played before. The fierceness and power of this character is what drew me in from the beginning. This is the role I've longed for since I began my career."

The engrossing visuals showcase a dramatically raw and fierce transformation of Tara who draws onto her inner strength to survive and live.

Rajpal Yadav detailed his role and said: "It is always important to keep trying to innovate and do something different no matter what stage of life you may be in. I was looking for a role that I've never done before, something that can shock today's audiences who are always looking for something new and 'Apurva' was just the right story for me."

Abhishek Banerjee who will also be seen in the film 'Stolen' said: "This is one of the most fearsome characters I've played so far and to bring the necessary level of evil and menace in each scene was quite challenging but it was a great journey working with such an exemplary team!"

Written and directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, 'Apurva' stars a unique ensemble cast of Tara Sutaria, Abhishek Banerjee, Dhairya Karwa and Rajpal Yadav, and will premiere on Disney+ Hotstar on November 15, 2023.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Indian government on Thursday expressed shock over the news of the eight former Indian Navy personnel, who have been in custody in Qatar since last year, being awarded the death sentence, saying it will contest the order.

"The Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," the External Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it added.

Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, the statement said further.

The eight persons were arrested last year after being charged with spying for Israel by Qatar authorities.

The men also include decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatar's armed forces.

Their bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention extended by Qatari authorities.

On Thursday, the Court of First Instance of Qatar passed a judgement.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : The upcoming episode of the cooking-based reality show 'MasterChef India' features a unique blend of flavours. During the course of the episode, contestant Kriti Dhiman, a 23-year-old home baker from Gobindgarh, Punjab, steals the spotlight with her 'black garlic ice cream.' Kriti chooses her favourite ingredient  dates, and makes it the base for a delectable date pudding. However, the judges throw a curveball at her by asking her to choose one out of three secret ingredients presented by them. She picks black garlic, and transforms her choice into a velvety black garlic ice cream, which leaves all three judges in absolute awe of her culinary brilliance.

Chef Ranveer Brar, who serves in the judges panel, heaps praise on Kriti's dish. With a resounding bang of his signature spatula, he says: "Swaad Aa Gaya."

He goes on to say: "Kriti's creation transcends the ordinary. It's a symphony of flavours that are a pure delight to the taste buds. Her choice to incorporate black garlic into her ice cream is nothing short of mind-blowing. It takes courage to experiment with flavours at this level, and her risk has paid off in the most delicious way possible. This is the kind of innovation that sets MasterChef India's contestants apart."

With Chefs Vikas Khanna, Ranveer Brar, and Pooja Dhingra at the helm, this digital-exclusive season of the cooking based reality show boasts a gastronomic extravaganza.

'MasterChef India' streams on Sony LIV.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Delhi High Court has affirmed the right of a couple to marry a person of their choice, even against the wishes of their parents.

The couple had sought protection after getting married in defiance of their families' wishes and the court directed the Delhi Police to provide protection to the couple.

Justice Tushar Rao Gedela said that when both parties are adults, their right to marry the person of their choice is protected under the Constitution, and even family members cannot object to such relationships.

The court further stated that the state has a constitutional obligation to safeguard the rights and safety of its citizens.

The couple informed the court that a previous bench had quashed a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the woman against the man, acknowledging that it had been filed under pressure from her family and based on false and frivolous grounds.

The court, taking into account the constitutional rights of the couple, granted them protection and instructed the Delhi Police to ensure their safety, particularly from any potential harm posed by the woman's parents or family members.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : With barely 2-3 per cent of Muslims graduating and hardly 2-2.5 per cent getting jobs in the government or private sector, the plight of the community in Maharashtra is worse than that of the OBCs or the Marathas, making a strong case to provide quotas in jobs and education for impoverished Muslims. In order to highlight the plight of the community, the Maulana Vichar Manch president Hussain Dalwai, ex-MP, has convened a national-level Muslim Rights Conference here on Saturday.

Addressing mediapersons, Dalwai said that though Muslims comprise around 11.5 per cent of Maharashtra's population, their proportion in education and jobs is minimal.

He added that the number of Muslims living Below the Poverty Line (BPL) was the highest among all other communities and the Muslim community remains backward.

He said that nearly 75 per cent of children in the age group of 6-14 drop out of school within the first few years and barely 2-3 per cent are able to graduate or pursue higher education. Consequently, they hold hardly 2-2.5 per cent of the jobs in the government and private sector.

Dwelling on the historic aspects at the national level, Dalwai said the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had set up the Dr. Gopal Singh Commission with the late Dr. Rafiq Zakari as a member, and he first proved the decline of the Muslim society with correlational statistics and authentic data.

"After that, a 15-point program was announced for the Muslim community, but was never implemented, so there was no improvement in their social, academic and economic levels," Dalwai said.

Later, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh set up the Justice Rajinder Sachar Committee, and he made a comparative study of Muslim and non-Muslim societies and put the exact condition of Muslim society in front of the country.

It was followed by the Justice Ranganath Mishra Commission which clearly stated the need for reservation for Muslims.

In Maharashtra, the then Congress government set up a commission in May 2008 headed by Dr. Mehmood-ur Rahman, which recommended at least 8 per cent quota for Muslims.

Finally, in July 2014, the then Congress government granted 5 per cent reservation to Muslims (along with the Maratha quotas), giving quotas to 50 categories of Muslims but there were many errors in the government circular.

"However, while the Maratha community circular was cleared by the Social Justice Department, the Muslim reservation proposal was passed by the Minority Welfare Department though the authority was vested with the Social Justice Department," claimed Dalwai.

He rued that Muslims, especially those who are economically backward, need quotas and concessions in education but no government has taken any action on this count in the last ten years.

"While the government and leaders of various political parties have promised to do their best for Maratha quotas, no party or leader is willing to take a stand on reservation for Muslims, who have been deprived of education and development for generations, leading to great unrest," cautioned Dalwai.

He urged all leaders, political and social, to put aside their differences and speak up for providing Muslims with education, jobs, livelihood, healthcare, poverty-alleviation and Constitutional rights, on the lines of other communities.

"Beside quotas, the Muslim should get equal representation in power, wealth and prestige. Funds on the lines of other communities and tribes should be provided in Union and state budgets based on their population apart from 100 per cent scholarships and hostel accommodation at the district levels, etc," urged Dalwai.

In order to ascertain the exact status, he said that there should be a census of the Muslim community on the lines of the recent caste survey in Bihar, deploying the Waqf resources for the welfare of the community, and stringent laws to abolish mob-lynching.

The seminar on Saturday shall be attended by top Muslim leaders like Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Dr Salman Khurshid, Mohammed Adib, Dr. Amin Patel, Wajahat Mirza, Abdul Rahman, Yusuf Abrahani, Maulana Naseem Siddiqui, NCP President Sharad Pawar, Congress state chief Nana Patole, Mumbai Congress leader Professor. Varsha Gaikwad, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray, and MP Arvind Sawant, and Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad.
People from Gaza should evacuate between 10 a.m to 4 p.m: IDF. Image Source: IANS News

Tel Aviv , Oct 26 : The Israel Defense Force (IDF ) in a statement on Thursday said that Hamas was preventing the citizens of Gaza from evacuating.

The IDF spokesmen confirmed that they had appealed to the people in the Gaza Strip to evacuate only to understand that the Hamas teleosts had blocked the access routes to Southern strip.

The Military said that they had communicated to the people living in Gaza Strip but they had responded stating that all the roads were blocked.

It may be noted that the United Nations had warned Israel that evacuating half of the population of Gaza was not possible and appealed not to go for a military offensive in Gaza Strip as it was densely populated.

However the Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already announced that a ground military offensive was inevitable in the Gaza Strip to destroy Hamas and to bring normalcy in the region.
People from Gaza should evacuate between 10 a.m to 4 p.m: IDF. Image Source: IANS News

Tel Aviv , Oct 26 : The Israel Defense Force (IDF) in a statement on Thursday said that Hamas was preventing the citizens of Gaza from evacuating.

The IDF spokesmen confirmed that they had appealed to the people in the Gaza Strip to evacuate only to understand that the Hamas teleosts had blocked the access routes to Southern strip.

The Military said that they had communicated to the people living in Gaza Strip but they had responded stating that all the roads were blocked.

It may be noted that the United Nations had warned Israel that evacuating half of the population of Gaza was not possible and appealed not to go for a military offensive in Gaza Strip as it was densely populated.

However the Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has already announced that a ground military offensive was inevitable in the Gaza Strip to destroy Hamas and to bring normalcy in the region.
Two-time Olympic biathlon champion Dmitry Vasiliev spewed a batch of nonsense about the Swedes after skier Lynn Swan refused to compete with Russian athletes. The representative of the aggressor country accused the Scandinavians of all the sins of mankind, recalling the Middle Ages.

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Vasilyev said this in a fit of anger in a commentary to the Metaratings.ru portal. The winner of the Sarajevo '84 and Calgary '88 Games called the Swedish athlete a brainless person and added that the Swedes should be held responsible for the crimes of the Vikings. At the same time, the ex-biathlete pretended that Russians are not killing people in Ukraine now.

"If you ask her why she doesn't want to, the Swede won't even say. Or she will say the generally accepted nonsense that everyone repeats like a mantra today. Since she is Swedish, then one could make even greater claims, for example, to the Vikings, who simply slaughtered thousands of people in their time. They plundered everyone around them. Does she also want to answer for that? If you follow her logic, if you are just Russian, you are already guilty, then she is guilty too. If she still has a remnant of a brain, let her use it and analyze it," Vasiliev said.

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Earlier, two-time Olympic champion Olga Zaitseva complained that "everyone in the world has turned their backs" on Russia for no reason.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, three-time Olympic champion Elena Valbae issued another portion of false information that people in Europe cannot express their position on various issues.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
Chandigarh, Oct 26 : Underscoring the substantial positive transformation and advancements, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar on Thursday said the past nine years has seen the state's exports surging from Rs 68,032 crore in 2014 to an impressive Rs 2,45,453 crore in 2022-23.

Sharing a range of accomplishments during the stint of the BJP government in the state, the Chief Minister told the media here the government in the past nine years has focused on economic growth, industrial development, and the overall well-being of its residents.

He said Haryana has attracted investments of Rs 18,422 crore, leading to the establishment of 1,59,622 MSMEs. This substantial industrial expansion has concurrently generated employment opportunities for approximately 12.60 lakh individuals.

The Chief Minister said the government has laid an emphasis on enhancing the standard of living for the people. This encompassed initiatives in education, healthcare, security, self-sufficiency, empowerment, self-esteem, and equal opportunities.

Divulging details about infrastructure advancements, the government has been actively engaged in advancing infrastructure development. Notable projects include the construction of an Integrated Multi Modal Logistics Hub in Narnaul with an outlay of $700 million and the establishment of industries in IMT Kharkhoda Sonipat, in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki and Suzuki.

"Haryana has actively participated in national initiatives like the PM Gati Shakti Yojana and the establishment of a Medical Device Park in Panipat, along with a Bulk Drugs Park in Hisar. The government has taken measures to provide traders with various benefits and facilities, including insurance coverage against losses due to fire and burglary under the Mukhya Mantri Vyapari Kshatipurti Yojana as well as personal accident insurance for registered traders," said Khattar.

He said today, every district is connected by a national highway. At present the work of eight highways is complete and 12 are in progress.

"To ease the traffic around Delhi, Kundli-Manesar-Palwal and Kundli-Ghaziabad-Palwal Expressways were built and the traffic on them continues smoothly. Ambala Kotputli Greenfield Corridor completed at Rs 10,646 crore," he said.

The Chief Minister said the construction work of the country's first elevated railway line has been completed in Rohtak and work on the same project has started in Kurukshetra.

A survey is being conducted for the elevated line in Kaithal. Construction work on 62 railway overbridges and underground bridges at a cost of Rs 2,577 crore has been completed and work on 50 bridges is in progress.

Metro service has started from the YMCA Chowk to Ballabhgarh, Bahadurgarh-Mundka (Delhi), Badarpur-Mujesar (YMCA Chowk) and Sikandarpur station to Sector 56.

The Chief Minister said e-ticketing has been introduced in public road transport services. A five per cent rebate will also be given on recharging to promote this. Besides, CCTV cameras have been installed at all bus terminals in the state.

The Chief Minister said the government has prioritised the enhancement of healthcare infrastructure.

In 2014, the state had one medical university, but this number has now risen to two. Similarly, the count of medical colleges has surged from six in 2014 to 15, and the MBBS seats have increased from 700 to 2,185.

Moreover, the number of postgraduate seats in medical colleges has grown from 289 to 1,006, he said.

He said an online transfer policy has been implemented for the convenience of teachers, which is also being adopted by other states in the country.

Besides, the state has seen growth in the number of universities from 43 in 2014 to 56, government colleges from 105 to 182, and government model senior secondary Sanskriti schools from 13 to 147.

"These initiatives reflect the government's unwavering commitment to improving healthcare services, skill development, and education to provide employment opportunities and enhance the overall quality of life for the people of Haryana," he said.

For farmers, the Chief Minister said due to natural disasters, the compensation per acre which was Rs 10,000 in 2014 has been increased to Rs 15,000 per acre by the government.

"The government stands shoulder to shoulder with farmers, providing a substantial compensation of Rs 11,000 crore for crop damage due to natural calamities, whereas in the previous governmentas tenure only Rs 1,158 crore were given to the farmers," he said.

In addition to this, Haryana became the first state in the country to procure 14 crops at a minimum support price (MSP).

He said under the Bhavantar Bharpiee Yojana, Rs 750 crore was deposited into the accounts of bajra growing and horticulture farmers.
Ahmedabad, Oct 26 : The Gujarat High Court on Thursday deferred its decision on the stray cattle menace matter in the state by a day following a request by Advocate General, Kamal Trivedi.

A bench, comprising Justices A.J. Shastri and Hemant Prachchhak, has rescheduled the hearing on this matter on October 27.

On Friday, the High Court is expected to determine the course of action in addressing the stray cattle menace issue in the state.

The court's decision to delay the order stems from an earlier indication on October 25 where it had hinted at framing contempt charges against responsible officials for their alleged failure to adhere to the high court's directives in addressing the cattle menace prevailing in the state.

Advocate General Kamal Trivedi, while representing the state government before the bench, saying: "We must ensure that everything is in order. Let's have one final opportunity, and I pledge to personally oversee the resolution of all the issues highlighted in the Gujarat State Legal Services Authority report.

"Not only will we address the cited episodes, but we will also ensure that ongoing efforts are undertaken diligently."

Justice Shastri responded that for this purpose, "we will request that you -- the state government -- ensure the presence of the respective commissioners and the principal secretary of the urban development department in court tomorrow at 11 am".
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Thursday slammed the BJP government at the Centre for the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) searches at over 11 locations including the premises of Rajasthan unit chief Govind Singh Dotasara saying that the timing of the searches is questionable and the Union government must stop using the central agencies as weapons as it is dangerous for democracy.

He also condemned the fresh summons issued to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning by the ED in a 12 year old case and said that the party is against corruption.

Addressing a press conference at the party headquarters here, Pilot said, "Today in Rajasthan what happened you all have seen. As you know that in Rajasthan the elections are just 29 days away. The model code of conduct is in force in the state and today the central agency's action of searches in Jaipur and other cities shows the intentand their aim. The misuse of the central agencies has been proven today. The ED action ahead of the polls against the Congress leaders to threaten it is watched by the people."

Asserting that the Congress is against corruption, Pilot said that if there is a fair probe and if any evidence is found against anyone we are with the agencies.

"But the way they targeted the state unit chief's (Govind Singh Dotasara) residence in Rajasthan shows that the BJP is sensing its defeat in Rajasthan. His premises was searched despite no summon being issued to him, and it is a kind of messaging that if they (BJP) are politically weak then to help them there are central agencies like CBI, ED and IT, which they will misuse," he said.

He said that the Congress condemns it (agencies action) and the Congress believes that the elections should be fought on the basis of principles.

"The Congress is contesting in all the five states on its own strength and today's action is a clear message in the way in which a summon has been issued to him," the former Deputy Chief Minister said.

Pilot also batted for Gehlot's son Vaibhav and said, "He (Vaibhav Gehlot) has himself said that it is a 12 year old case in which he has been summoned. Surprisingly after the polling dates were announced then a summon was issued to him which shows why they have sent it now."

He added that it was surprising for him that while the ED was carrying out searches at the premises of the Congress leaders the BJP was giving a clarification.

"This is beyond understanding. The agencies are being used as weapons. It is dangerous for democracy. One should learn from Rahul Gandhi how he faced the central agencies," Pilot said.

Hitting out at the BJP government at the Centre, the Congress leader said, "The timing, the intent of the ED's action is suspicious. This is not the first time that the opposition top leaders are being targeted. And once the elections are over the same cases are forgotten. The agencies are being used as political tools. And this is being seen by the people of the state as well as the country. This is a dangerous trend and it is not good for democracy."

Responding to a question about the ED's action in the alleged paper leak case and he staging a protest over the same issue, Pilot said, "The ED has not issued any statement on the case in which it is carrying out searches. I had myself led from the front against the paper leak. I am with the youth as it hurts their future."

He said that when he raised the issue of the paper leak, the party leadership in Delhi took note of it and following that a Bill was passed in the state assembly recommending life imprisonment for it.

To another question about the BJP accusing the Congress of trying to politicize the ED action in Rajasthan, Pilot, who is also the former state unit chief said, "I think the one who is politicizing the country's institutions is the ruling dispensation (BJP) as it is using the agencies as a weapon and a tool to harass and target the leaders of the opposition parties."

He said that when they (BJP) feel that they are losing the election they use the central agencies.

"When the election is 29 days away, it is raiding and issuing summons in a 12 year old case. Bringing up a 12 year old case ahead of the polls is a telling example of how the government is operating and certainly they are fearful that they are not going to win," he added.

The remarks from the Congress leader came after the ED carried out searches at over 11 locations in the desert state, including the premises of Govind Singh Dotasara, independent MLA Omprakash Dudla and others in the alleged paper leak case.

However, senior officials of the ED remained tight-lipped on its action in the poll bound state. The polling for the 200 member assembly is scheduled on November 25 and the counting of votes will take place on December 3.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : The Calcutta High Court on Thursday stayed the recent transfer of a lower court judge by the state law department.

While staying the implementation of the transfer order till November 30, when the matter will be heard again, a single-judge bench of Justice Tirthankar Ghosh observed that it couldn't allow the state administration to have such control over the functioning of the judicial system.

He also observed that such instances will increase in future if immediate implementation of the transfer order is allowed.

The court was hearing a petition filed by lower court Judge Subhra Sankar Bhatta, who was recently transferred to a lower court in Asansol.

The state law department stated that since several cases are pending at the lower court in Asansol, the transfer was made keeping in mind the larger public interest.

However, Bhatta moved the high court challenging the transfer order.

On Thursday, his counsel Sabyasachi Chattopadhyay argued that the transfer order was not made in public interest, but to serve the interest of a section of lawyers.

On the other hand, the state government's counsel argued that it was a routine transfer and the legal department was well within its authority to transfer lower court judges.

After hearing both sides, Justice Ghosh stayed the implementation of the transfer order till November 30 besides directing the state government to file an affidavit in the matter by that time.
'What did Sharad Pawar do for farmers', PM Modi asks in front of Ajit Pawar. Image Source: IANS News

Ahmednagar : , Oct 26 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a broadside against Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad, asking "what did he do for farmers when he was the Union Agriculture Minister", here on Thursday.

Addressing a rally of farmers at Kakadi village near the Shirdi pilgrimage town, Modi said -- without taking names -- that one senior leader of Maharashtra served as the Union Agriculture Minister under the then Congress government.

"Personally, I have all respect for him But what has he done for the farmers? Senior leaders from the state have only played politics in the name of the farming community," said Modi.

Citing figures, the PM said that in his seven years as Union Agriculture Minister, Pawar procured foodgrains from farmers across the country by giving a minimum support price of Rs 3.50 lakh crore.

On the other hand, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has given Rs 13.50 lakh crore to the farmers as MSP in seven years, said Modi, even as breakaway NCP (AP) leader and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar looked on, in the presence of Governor Ramesh Bais, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

Modi said that before 2014, many schemes that were announced for farmers were not working, and they had to fight for their compensation, were forced to depend on middle-men for their payments, and struggled many months for their dues.

However, after the BJP formed government, the scenario changed as it empowered the tillers by directly depositing over Rs 1.15 lakh crore into the farmers' bank accounts, Modi said.

Even for the present Rabi season, the MSP has been enhanced for various crops which will benefit the peasants of Maharashtra immensely, he added.

The PM on Thursday inaugurated several developmental projects, including the left bank of the 85 km long canal network of the Nilwande Dam which will provide piped water to 182 villages and other benefits to the farmers, "who had been starving for water for decades".

He spoke of the benefits to all farmers, including sugarcane, detailing how thousands of crores of rupees aid had been given to sugar factories, setting up of over 200,000 cooperative societies in the country, over 7,500 FPOs and other schemes for the farming community.

"Maharashtra has a lot of strength. The country will progress only if Maharashtra develops. We have launched many infrastructure and development projects, we have completed several other projects for connectivity that will benefit the farmers and the common people We are determined to make India a developed nation," said Modi.

He also said the Nilwande Dam, for which the state was waiting more than five decades, has finally been completed, urging that "water is a gift of god and you should not waste a single drop".

Earlier, Modi prayed at the famed Saibaba Temple in Shirdi and recalled how he had visited the place five years ago for its centenary celebrations.

(Quaid Najmi can be contacted at: q.najmi@ians.in)
Chandigarh, Oct 26 : Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Thursday asked the state government to initiate action against two upscale housing projects on the outskirts of the state capital Chandigarh owned by AAP legislator-cum-realtor Kulwant Singh for violating environmental laws.

Seeking an action taken report from the AAP government, Purohit in a letter to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said projects 'Super Mega Mixed use integrated Industrial Park' in Sectors 82-83 and 66-A in Mohali and Galaxy Heights by Janta Land Promoters Ltd are coming up in violation of environmental regulations.

The Governor said the observation of environment law violations has been made by Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

He shared the communication of the ministry that says, "The project was under violation from December 16, 2015 (date of grant of Environmental Clearance) to January 10, 2017 (Eco-Sensitive Zone boundary notification). Accordingly, cognisance of the offence is required to be taken under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986."

The governor advised that civic authorities and Punjab Pollution Control Board may be asked to take strict action against the wildlife norms' violators who are involved in illegal construction.

The Union Ministry of Environment, in response to a clarification sought by the state regarding the construction by Janta Land Promoters Ltd, has observed that the proposed project site is located at a distance of 13.06 km from the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary and 8.4 km from the boundary of the Bird Sanctuary in Chandigarh.

With assets of Rs 250 crore, realtor and former mayor Kulwant Singh, who was the AAP candidate from Mohali Urban in 2022, was the richest among all those contesting the Punjab polls from the district.

In 2014, when Kulwant Singh contested the Lok Sabha elections on the Akali Dal ticket from Fatehgarh Sahib, his declared income was Rs 139 crore.
Tel Aviv, Oct 26 : A minister in the cabinet of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Israel Defence Force (IDF) Chief, Benny Gantz on Thursday said that as former IDF chief and former Defence minister, he bore some responsibility for the October 7 massacre.

Gantz, who also served as Israel'sDefence Minister between 2020 and 2022,made the remarks while briefing news reporters.

The senior leader, who is from the opposition's National Unity Party, joined the Netanyahu cabinet on October 12 after the Hamas attack of October 7.

Gantz in the briefing said, "Anyone who has been part of the leadership or Defence of the state of Israel in any role cannot shake off the responsibility for what happened."

The Minister without portfolio also said that he was with the military and had held key roles in defence. He said that he was not releasing himself from the responsibility of what happened.

Benny Gantz said that the country will have to wait until the war was over for a detailed investigation to hold those who were at fault.

He also said that it was a right decision to join the government and has helped in decision making, in the diplomatic and security functions.

Benny Gantz said that this was a decision to give a message to people living in Israel and also to the exterior enemies.

When asked on the continuation of his party in the cabinet, Gantz said, "Just as I know how to join the cabinet, I know when to get out of it."
Kolkata, Oct 26 : The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday had to return from the state-run S.S.K.M. Medical College & Hospital without conducting the voice sample test of Sujay Krishna Bhadra, a prime accused in the multi-crore cash for school jobs case in West Bengal.

Although a team of ED officials reached the hospital with the intention of conducting Bhadraas voice sample test, they had to return empty-handed as the medical team of the hospital denied permission for the same.

Recently, the ED had secured fresh permission from a special PMLA court Kolkata to conduct Bhadra's voice sample test.

As per sources, the medical team of S.S.K.M. denied permission on the ground that Bhadra is not in a position to bear the stress of voice sample test. Bhadra was recently shifted to a cabin under the cardiology department of the hospital from the intensive care unit.

To recall, the special court had first given ED the permission to conduct Bhadra's voice sample test in July, when the central agency had presented an audio clip in the court in which Bhadra could reportedly be heard giving instruction to someone to erase data from his mobile phone.

However, the voice sampling could not be done then as Bhadra got admitted to the hospital after complaining of chest ailment, following which he underwent a bypass surgery.

The voice sample test has become imperative now following the high courtas direction to wind up the investigation into the school jobs case by December 31.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A Delhi court on Thursday set, for November 6, its decision on taking cognisance of a supplementary charge sheet filed against accused Syed Mohd Kasim Ibrahim in the ongoing money laundering case related to alleged terrorist activities involving the banned Popular Front of India (PFI).

Ibrahim is currently in judicial custody, and the charge sheet against him was listed for consideration on Thursday.

However, Additional Sessions Judge Sachin Gupta of Patiala House Courts, adjourned the matter, noting that the proceedings in the case was already listed before the court on November 6.

While the Enforcement Directorate (ED) filed a supplementary charge sheet against Ibrahim, its Special Public Prosecutor N. K. Matta, along with advocate Mohd Faizan Khan, had said that there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the accused in the case.

The case revolves around the alleged laundering of Rs 120 crore over several years.

The PFI was banned by the Indian government in late September of the previous year due to its alleged links with terror activities.

The ED has initiated the case based on an FIR filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for alleged terrorism-related activities, which are punishable under the stringent Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The ED has claimed that the accused and other members associated with the PFI engaged in collecting funds through donations, hawala transactions, banking channels, and more. These funds were alleged to be used for unlawful activities and the commission of various offenses.
New York, Oct 26 : Former US President Donald Trump stormed off from the lower Manhattan court after an angry face of with his former attorney Michel Cohen and the judge Arthur Engoron who slapped a $10,000 dollar fine for defying a gag order in the $250 million civil tax fraud against him by District Attorney Letitia James. He called the judge and his former attorney as being partisan.

Trump stormed out of a New York City courtroom on Wednesday after a heated day in court in which the former president was called to the witness stand in his $250 million state fraud case and fined $10,000 for violating an earlier gag order. He was fined $5,000 in the first instance, multiple media reports said.

Trump's abrupt departure took everyone by surprise including his lawyers and his Secret Service agents, who went running after him.

He returned to the courtroom in Manhattan after the court day ended and after his former lawyer Michael Cohen finished his contentious testimony where he testified that he had inflated Trump Business assets over current real estate values at the instance of Trump, NBC reported.

Judge Arthur Engoron presiding over the Trump business cases slapped the 2nd penalty on Trump of $10,000 for his observation to reporters earlier that the person sitting next to the judge was "partisan".

Trump said he was referring to Cohen, whom he has called a rat, a liar and a felon, multiple media reports said besides calling him a proven liar, cheat and fraudster.

Trump told reporters earlier that Engoron is "a very partisan judge with a person whoas very partisan sitting alongside him, perhaps even much more partisan than he is".

Trump's lawyer Alina Habba asked that there be no eye-rolling or whispers from the bench during her questioning of Cohen, NBC reported.

After Judge Engoron said he found Trump's brief testimony "not credible" and fined Trump for violating the gag order and smeared his law clerk in social media, a red-faced and angry-looking Trump stormed out of the courtroom 45 minutes later after Engoron denied a motion from his lawyers on a separate legal issue.

The abrupt departure appeared to catch even his attorneys by surprise and caused gasps throughout the courtroom.

"The witness just admitted that we won the trial and the judge should end this trial immediately. Thank you," Trump told reporters after he left.

Trump's lawyer Cliff Robert contradicted Cohen's testimony and said that Trump never instructed Cohen to inflate his financial statements.

Under questioning from the state attorney general's office, Cohen testified later that Trump didn't specifically tell him to inflate the numbers and said he was like a "mob boss" who tells you what he wants without directly telling you, NBC said.

When Cohen wrapped up his fiery two days on the witness stand, Robert again asked Engoron for a directed verdict, a request that was "absolutely denied".

"This case has credible evidence all over the place," saidjudge Engoron, who has already ruled that Trump engaged in "persistent fraud" with his financial statements.

"There is enough evidence in this case to fill this courtroom," he added.

Cohen told reporters after he left the courtroom: "They wanted to make a motion to dismiss the case, to which the judge responded: 'Yeah, absolutely not'. You know why? Because he will ultimately be held accountable."

State Attorney General Letitia James said Cohen, who admitted to having previously lied under oath in court and to Congress while he was on the witness stand, is "not the main witness" in the case.
The former editor-in-chief of Ekonomichna Pravda, journalist Serhii Liamets, called on the owner of TIS Zerno and TIS Mindobryva terminals, Oleksi Fedorychev, to decide which side he is on in Russia's war against Ukraine, speak out in support of Ukraine and provide financial assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. According to the journalist, the presence of large-scale financial assistance to the Armed Forces is a clear marker of the attitude of specific entrepreneurs to the war.

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He wrote about this in his column on the Ukrainian News website.

The journalist notes that Russian business felt free to operate in Ukraine before the full-scale invasion, and partially retained its positions after it. Despite the fact that assets fully owned by Russians were confiscated after the outbreak of the war, companies with partial Russian influence remained.

Another example, according to Serhii Liamets, is the TIS terminals in Odesa's Pivdennyi port. Some of them, like TIS Ruda, TIS Vuhillia, TIS Konteinernyi Terminal, TIS-14 Prychal, TIS-15 Prychal, and TIS Infrastruktura, are owned by Ukrainian owners. Some of them - TIS-Zerno and TIS-Mindobryva - belong to Oleksii Fedorychev. The journalist emphasizes that Ukrainian representatives of large agricultural businesses and law enforcement agencies are interested in Fedorychev's assets, considering him a Russian oligarch, although he has never held Russian citizenship and his ties to the Kremlin have not been proven. Therefore, law enforcement officers are facing a dilemma as to what to do with TIS's property: whether to confiscate only a part of it or seize the entire business.

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The journalist wonders how to distinguish a pro-Ukrainian business owner from a pro-Russian one and concludes that the best way is to look for the presence or absence of assistance from the Armed Forces. Liamets emphasizes that entrepreneurs with ties to Russia avoid financial support for the Ukrainian army, especially in large amounts, because it causes them problems in Russia.

Meanwhile, no financial assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces was received from TIS structures owned by Oleksii Fedorychev.

"I have never heard of Fedorychev's assistance to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Meanwhile, TIS-Zerno participated in the grain corridor. Thus, Fedorychev received money from Ukraine. He did not even sit quietly, as most Russian oligarchs did. Fedorychev is suing Volodymyr Zelenskyy to have the sanctions lifted. It's like sitting on two chairs at once and behaving defiantly at the same time," writes the journalist.

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He suggests that the owner of TIS Zerno and TIS Mindobryva should decide on his position and, if he is really on the side of Ukraine in the war, publicly declare it and start providing financial assistance to the Ukrainian army.

"I propose that Oleksii Fedorychev publicly declare his support for the Armed Forces and take certain steps. You do not even have to purchase drones, but you can help with humanitarian aid, because you cannot sit on two chairs. Then, of course, the SSU should consider this brave action. In the meantime, we are watching the seizure of property of Russian oligarchs in Ukraine," summarizes Serhii Liamets.
New Delhi: Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal addresses during the AAP's 'maha rally' against the Centre's ordinance on control of services in the national capital, at Ramlila Maidan, in New Delhi, on Sunday, June 11, 2023. (Photo:IANS/Anupam Gautam). Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Oct 26 : In the wake of news that eight former Indian Navy personnel, who were in custody in Qatar since last year, have been awarded the death sentence, veteran leader Kapil Sibal on Thursday sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying the government must explore all options for their release.

In a post on X, Sibal, who is also an eminent lawyer, said, "Our Vishwa Guru (PM Modi) must intervene. Eight Indian ex-Navy officers given thedeath penalty by a Qatar court.

"Held accountable on charges which have not been even made public by Qatari authorities. Our government must explore all options for their release," the former Congress leader said.

The eight persons were arrested last year after being charged with spying for Israel by Qatar authorities.

The men also include decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and related services to Qatar's armed forces.

Their bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention extended by Qatari authorities. On Thursday, the Court of First Instance of Qatar passed a judgement.

Earlier in the day, the Indian government on Thursday expressed shock over the news and said it will contest it.
Over 27 kg gold, Rs 2 cr cash seized in Hyderabad ahead of Telangana polls. Image Source: IANS News

Hyderabad, Oct 26 : The seizure of cash, gold, liquor and other items in Telangana ahead of the next month's assembly elections mounted to Rs 347 crore on Thursday, an official said.

During the 24-hour period ending 9 a.m. Thursday, enforcement agencies seized cash, gold and liquor worth over Rs 6.85 crore. With this, the total seizure since October 9 has gone up to Rs 347.16 crore, said to be the highest in the country during such a short period.

During the entire poll process in the 2018 elections in Telangana, the total seizure of cash and gold was only to the tune of Rs 103 crore.

The enforcement agencies had started the checking on October 9 when the Model Code of Conduct came into force with the announcement of poll schedule by the Election Commission.

During the 24-hour period, more than Rs 3.17 crore cash was seized.

The total cash seizure has now gone up to Rs 122.62 crore.

According to the data released by the office of Chief Electoral Officer, precious metals worth over Rs 15 lakh were seized between 9 a.m. October 25 and 9 a.m. October 26.

The enforcement agencies have so far seized 230 kg gold, 900 kg silver, diamond and platinum, all worth more than Rs 156 crore.

Authorities continued their crackdown on the flow of liquor.

During the 24-hour period, liquor worth Rs 1.96 crore was seized, taking the cumulative seizure to Rs 20.70 crore.

The state and Central agencies have also seized 43 kg ganja, taking the total seizure to 3,460 kg, valued over Rs 17.18 crore.

The authorities have also seized 1.56 lakh kg rice and other items worth over Rs 30.42 crore.

The elections for 119-member state assembly will be held in a single phase on November 30.
Bhopal, Oct 26 : Congress' Madhya Pradesh chief Kamal Nath on Thursday filed his nominations paper for the November 17 Assembly elections from his pocket borough Chhindwara.

The 76-year-old veteran Congress leader, who won nine consecutive Lok Sabha elections from his home district Chhindwara, is contesting the Assembly election for the first time.

Last time, he had contested a by-poll in 2019 to fulfill the mandatory procedure to become the member of the Assembly for the chief ministerial post and had won against the BJPas Vivek Sahu by a margin of 25,837 votes.

Before leaving for filing his nomination, Kamal Nath addressed a gathering of his supporters and recalled the time when he made his political debut from Chhindwara.

"While sitting here on stage today, it reminds the very day when I had field my nomination first time in 1979. I was young and I was not very much aware about politics. I had then gone to each home to seek your support and today I can say that you have not only elected me for the last 45 years but you gave your love to me," he said.

Recalling the memories of his first election, Kamal Nath said when he won the first election from Chhindwara, he was clueless what to do and how to do?

"Only 480 out of 2,000 villages in Chhindwara district were connected with electricity and I started working to provide electricity to each home. People living in many villages were out cut from the world at that time because there was no road connectivity and to used come out from their villages very rarely. Now, 45 years later, Chhindwara is a model district in the country," he added.

During the election campaign across Madhya Pradesh, Kamal Nath highlights the development of his home district as 'model of development'. He has set up several skill centers and factories in Chhindwara in the past 40 years, which is why he remained undefeated from there since 1980.

In the 2019 general elections, the BJP under the wave of Prime Minister Narendra Modi won 28 out 29 Lok Sabha seats in Madhya Pradesh, but his son Nakul Nath was elected MP from Chhindwara.

In 2018, Kamal Nath constructed 108 feet-high idol of Lord Hanuman in his home district that helped him to project himself as a devotee of Lord Hanuman and also to counter the BJP's traditional strategy of presenting him as anti-Hindui.

Even as some section of Congress leaders would hesitate to speak over Sanatan Dharma or soft-Hindutva issues, Kamal Nath would straightforwardly say: "I am a Hindu and I am proud of it, but I am not a fool."

Even on Thursday, when press reporters sought his reply on Ram Temple in Ayodhya is getting ready to be open for public after a grand ceremony, Kamal Nath said: "Ram is the identity of Sanatan Dharma. Ram Mandir is not BJP's property, it is the identity of India and we all are proud of it."

Kamal Nath, who get elected as Lok Sabha MP for a record nine times, headed several ministries in the Centre including serving as commerce minister during the Dr. Manmohan Singh-led UPA government, took command of the Congress in Madhya Pradesh few months before the 2018 Assembly elections.

The party, which has been out of power for the last 15 years, was suffering with high factionalism but Kamal Nath managed to defeat the ruling BJP. The Congress won 114 seats in the 230-member house against BJP's 109, and managed to formed the government with the help of the Samajwadi Party and Independent MLAs.

However, the factionalism came to the fore again his government lasted only 15 months as it collapsed in March 2020 after several MLAs loyal to Jyotiraditya Scindia quit the Congress and joined the BJP. The development paved the way for the saffron party's return to power in the state with Shivraj Singh Chouhan becoming the Chief Minister once again.

Now, after three and half year, Kamal Nath has revived the Congress cadre with bringing changes in the party from top to bottom. He changed the process of selection of candidates and made the survey survey system for candidates' selection.

His senior party colleague and Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh has even said recently: "I have been the part of selecting candidates for 30 years, but I this time, things were very different. Multiple process were implement to ensure full transparency in selection of candidates."

Elections to the 230-member Madhya Pradesh assembly will be held on November 17, and the counting of votes will be taken up on December 3.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A Qatar court has awarded death sentence to eight retired Indian Navy personnel for reportedly spying on behalf of Israel against Qatar. India, while expressing shock over the development, has also said that it will contest the decision.

Who actually are these people at the centre of the entire matter? Let's find out.

The eight retired Indian Navy personnel are -- Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Saurabh Vashisht, Commander Purenendu Tiwari, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Commander Amit Nagpal and Sailor Ragesh.

As per reports, they worked at Qatar's Dahra Global Technologies and Consulting Services, a private company that offers training and other services to the defence and security agencies of Qatar.

In August last year, these eight individuals were arrested after being charged with spying for Israel by Qatar authorities.

Indian authorities have been providing consular access to them since the time of their imprisonment.

Reacting to the development, the External Affairs Ministry in a statement on Thursday, said: "The Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it added.

Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, the statement further said.
Kerala BJP president K Surendran on Thursday slammed state tourism minister Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 26 (IANS) Kerala BJP president K. Surendran on Thursday slammed the state tourism minister P. A. Mohammed Riyas for playing appeasement politics by pleasing the Muslim community here by clearing a proposal for a documentary on the importance of the Muslim religion and its history in Kerala. Riyas is the son-in-law of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

"A sum of Rs 94 lakhs has been sanctioned for this and this is done targeting the Muslim population ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. What all should understand is that Kerala is not just made up of Muslims alone as Kerala's history is made up of Hindus and Christians also. Just doing a documentary on the role played by one particular religion is unfair as this is done using the taxpayers' money," said Surendran. " I call upon CPI-M general secretary Sitaram Yechuri who claims to be the foremost leader of secularism to come clean on this and I wish to know if he feels there has been no role played by Hindus and Christians in building Kerala. Why has there been no such attempt to do a documentary on them," asked Surendran.

"Riyas is being portrayed as the next chief minister and the CPI-M is trying to please the Muslim community here through this," added Surendran.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : After his one-sided love affair with a woman, a 25-year-old man allegedly created a fake Instagram profile of her minor sister and uploaded obscene photos and audio clips on it, police said on Thursday, adding that they have arrested the accused.

The accused, identified as Furkan, a resident of Delhi's Maujpur, also circulated the same photos and audio clips to her relatives and friends.

According to police, on May 29, the Cyber North East District police station received a complaint about the uploading of explicit photos of a minor girl, along with lewd audio clips, on the social media platform.

"The complainant, in this case, revealed that her minor daughter had received a friend request on her Instagram account and was shocked to find her own photos paired with inappropriate content, including vulgar audio clips. To make matters worse, these materials were also being shared with the girl's relatives, friends, and acquaintances," Deputy Commissioner of Police, Northeast, Joy Tirkey said.

The subsequent investigation involved acquiring and thoroughly analysing the technical details of the suspected fake Instagram account. "Additionally, local intelligence was gathered, and the complainant was interviewed. With the help of the information and leads collected, a suspect was identified. After deploying additional resources, a raid was executed, and through persistent efforts, the team successfully apprehended the accused, who was later identified as Furkan," he said.

During his extended interrogation, Furkan admitted his involvement in the case and revealed that he had been involved in a one-sided romantic pursuit of the victim's elder sister. "When she declined his proposal for marriage, citing his existing marital status and two children, Furkan was deeply hurt and decided to seek revenge by tarnishing her family's reputation," the DCP said.

He obtained photographs of the victim from her Instagram account and used them to create a new fake account. He uploaded explicit audio clips and obscene material over these photos and disseminated them through social media to the victim's family, relatives, friends, and others. "Furthermore, Furkan disclosed that the complainant in the case was a tenant in his sister's property, and he frequently visited their home under the pretence of collecting rent. He developed a friendly relationship with the family, which granted him access to their social media accounts," said the DCP.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi on Thursday demanded that Prime Minister Narendra Modi must bring back eight former Indian Navy officers who have been handed the death penalty by a court in Qatar.

The Hyderabad MP said it was 'very unfortunate' that the ex-naval officers were on the death row.

Owaisi posted on 'X' that in August, he had raised the issue of ex-naval officers stuck in Qatar.

"Today they have been sentenced to death. Narendra Modi has boasted about how much "Islamic countries" love him. He must bring our ex-naval officers back. It's very unfortunate that they face the death row," he said.

Eight former Navy personnel, who have been detained in Qatar for over a year, were handed down death sentence on charges of spying.

--IANS

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Microsoft welcomes Activision Blizzard and their teams to Xbox. Image Source: IANS News

San Francisco, Oct 26 : Microsoft on Thursday made some key changes in the top echelons of its gaming vertical Xbox, promoting Sarah Bond as Xbox president, as the tech giant completed the $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

Bond will bring together Devices, Player & Creator Experiences, Platform Engineering, Strategy, Business Planning, Data & Analytics and Business Development, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer said in an internal memo to employees seen by The Verge.

Matt Booty will now be the president of game content and studios, including overseeing Bethesda and ZeniMax studios.

"Dave McCarthy will lead all of these efforts for our business as Chief Operations Officer, Microsoft Gaming," Spencer wrote.

Earlier this month, top Microsoft leaders Satya Nadella and Brad Smith welcomed the closing of $68.7 billion transaction to acquire gaming giant Activision Blizzard.

The UK's anti-trust watchdog finally cleared the restructured deal for Microsoft to buy Blizzard, after it concluded that the new deal would preserve competitive prices and better services.

Spencer wrote in the memo that Microsoft Gaming is on a multi-year journey to reach players where they are and on the devices they choose to play.

"We have thirteen $1 billion+ franchises in our portfolio and we just set new records for engagement in Game Pass. As our business continues to grow, it's important that we structure ourselves to sustain that momentum with effective clarity and accountability across Gaming," he noted.

ZeniMax will continue to operate as a limited integration entity led by Jamie Leder, President and CEO, reporting to Booty.

All ZeniMax development studios and ZeniMax Central Services teams will continue reporting to Leder.

On the marketing side, chief marketing officer Chris Capossela is stepping down after 32 years at Microsoft.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao on Thursday dismissed the challenges thrown at him by state Congress chief A. Revanth Reddy, saying that 'entire India has seen the power of KCR'.

Addressing an election rally at Achampet in Mahabubnagar district, the Chief Minister said that some people were challenging him to come to Kodangal or at the Gandhi statue.

"The entire country has seen the power of KCR. There is no need to prove it again," he said while reacting to Revanth Reddy's challenge to contest next month's Assembly elections against him from the Kodangal constituency.

Without naming anybody, he asked at whose feet these people were sitting when he was fighting for Telangana.

Recently, Revanth Reddy had also dared KCR to come to the Telangana Martyrs' Memorial to take a pledge that they will not use money or liquor in elections.

The BRS chief recalled that he was alone when he began the fight for Telangana 24 years back.

KCR also claimed that since he was sincere and his fight was just, he succeeded, adding that when Telangana was formed, it was facing electricity shortage and had no water for irrigation and drinking purposes.

"Today Telangana is the only state in the country which is supplying 24-hour electricity and drinking water to all the households through taps. Telangana has emerged as a model state for the entire country," he said.

The Chief Minister claimed that even the Prime Minister's home state Gujarat is not providing 24-hour electricity.

KCR said Telangana is going to polls in the 10th year of its formation. Stating that he has done whatever he could do for the state, KCR said it is now for the people to do their bit.

The Chief Minister also urged people to show their power on November 30 (polling day), saying that the voters should think and decide who can take Telangana ahead on the path of development.

KCR pointed out that Telangana, which was producing only 60 lakh tonnes of paddy, today grows 3 crore tonnes of paddy every year.

He cautioned the people that if Congress comes to power in the state, schemes like Rythu Bandhu and Dalit Bandhu will be scrapped.

He also promised that if BRS is voted to power again, the annual investment support for farmers under Rythu Bandhu will be increased from Rs 10,000 per acre to Rs16,000 per acre.

Hitting out at the Congress, the BRS chief said that it promised Telangana state in 2004 but gave in 2014, adding that Telangana was achieved by mobilising the support of 32 parties.

Later addressing a public meeting at Munugode, KCR said the Congress, which ruled the state for 50 years, failed to solve the problem of fluorosis in Nalgonda district.

BRS had won the by-poll in Munugode late last year. It was necessitated by the resignation of Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy of Congress, who had defected to BJP.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : India and EU naval ships conducted their first-ever joint naval exercise, in the Gulf of Guinea, off west Africa, in an effort to reinforce maritime security cooperation in support of the region, the Defence Ministry said on Thursday.

The exercise on October 24 followed the third meeting of the EU-India Maritime Security Dialogue on October 5 in Brussels.

During the exercise, Indian Navyas INS Sumedha, an Offshore Patrol Vessel, was joined by three EU member statesa ships in the Gulf of Guinea - Italian Navy Ship ITS Foscari, French Navy Ship FS Ventose, and Spanish Navy Ship Tornado, a Defence Ministry official added.

The four ships practiced a series of tactical manoeuvers in international waters off the coast of Ghana, including a boarding exercise, a flying exercise using the helicopters embarked on Ventose and Sumedha, and transfer of personnel between ships.

This exercise was followed by a knowledge sharing session in Accra, which built on the joint experience at sea to improve operational know-how. The session also helped deepen ties between Ghanaian officials and representatives of the Indian, EU and EU member states missions to Ghana, the official added.

According to the ministry these activities underlined the shared commitment of India and the EU to supporting coastal states and the Yaounde Architecture in ensuring maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea. They reflected the breadth and dynamism of EU-India cooperation on maritime security, and signalled the common determination to uphold the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

--IANS

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Frank Warren, the promoter of Tyson Fury (33-0-1, 24 KOs), has called the accusations of Oleksandr Usyk's (21-0, 14 KOs) team that the British boxer has always avoided fighting the Ukrainian unfounded. The representative of the Gypsy King, as the Manchester native is called, added that the fight was not disrupted through the fault of his client.

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Warren said this in an interview with the Daily Mail tabloid. According to him, Usyk and Fury could not meet for various reasons, but they were not because of Tyson. After all, Frank reminded, in September, the boxers signed a contract for a historic fight for the title of absolute world heavyweight champion.

"There was so much nonsense about Tyson not wanting this fight, and Usyk's people were spreading a lot of propaganda that was not true. Tyson signed on for this fight last year, but it didn't take place because the Saudi promoters couldn't provide a venue. It was supposed to be December, Usyk got injured, then February, then April, then we tried to agree in London - we agreed on the terms. Then they were offered to hold the fight in December this year, but they refused and used all the excuses that Tyson was asking for more," Warren said.

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Earlier, Fury said he was not interested in the title of absolute world champion. He also issued an ultimatum to Usyk about the upcoming fight, threatening to take him to court. Prior to that, Anthony Joshua (26-3, 23 KOs) revealed sensational details of Oleksandr's fight against Tyson. In addition, the Briton gave his forecast for the historic confrontation between the Ukrainian and his compatriot.

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Meanwhile, Fury's manager Spencer Brown spoke about the secret conversation between Tyson and Oleksandr. The Ukrainian himself commented on the fight against the Briton in an original way, calling his opponent an avatar and questioning one of the terms of the deal.

Oleksandr called Tyson a "pot-bellied hottie " and sent him his regards. The Ukrainian boxer also spoke about the imminent end of his career. And promoter Oleksandr Krasiuk named the condition under which the fight with Fury could be canceled.

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As reported by OBOZ.UA, former world champion in two weight categories Timothy Bradley revealed a detail that will make Tyson Fury helpless in a confrontation with Oleksandr Usyk. The Briton himself addressed his rival in one word, answering questions from Ukrainian journalists.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Don't fall for fakes!
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A special NIA court in Delhi has sentenced an Indian Mujahideen (IM) operative to 10 years in jail for hatching a criminal conspiracy to wage war against the government by carrying out terrorist attacks across the country.

Notably, Syed Maqbool, a resident of Nanded in Maharashtra, was the fifth accused among the total of 11, against whom the sentence has been pronounced on Thursday.

Maqbool was arrested in the case on February 28, 2013 for his active involvement with members of Indian Mujahideen based in Pakistan and India and involvement in the crime and conspiracy.

According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), it has been uncovered that the accused maintained close connections with key figures of the IM, including Riyaz Bhatkal in Pakistan, and Imran Khan and Obaid-Ur-Rehman in India.

"They conspired to execute explosive attacks at various locations in India, with a particular focus on Hyderabad. Extensive surveillance of critical sites, including those within Hyderabad, was also carried out," said NIA in a statement.

"This case is related to a plot orchestrated by members of the Indian Mujahideen, a group responsible for orchestrating a series of devastating bombings throughout the country," it said.

Earlier, on July 12, four accused, namely Danish Ansari, Aftab Alam, Imran Khan, and Obaid-Ur-Rehman, were found guilty under sections 18, 19, 38(2), and 39(2) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

They were sentenced to 10 years in prison. On March 31, formal charges were filed against the aforementioned individuals, as well as 10 others, including Yasin Bhatkal, Asadullah Akhtar, Zia-Ur-Rehman, Tehsin Akhter, and Hyder Ali.

The verdict was handed by the NIA Special Court in Delhi, under sections 121 and 122 of the Indian Penal Code, along with Sections 17, 18, 19, 21, 38, 39, and 40 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

"The trial for the remaining six accused individuals listed above, who are facing various charges under the Indian Penal Code and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, is currently in progress," said the NIA.
Bhopal, Oct 26 : Former Madhya Pradesh minister Jaivardhan Singh, who is contesting the November 17 Assembly elections from his family bastion Raghogarh in Guna district, filed his nomination on Thursday accompanied by his six-year-old son Sahasra Singh and father and two-time former Chief Minister Digvijaya Singh.

Enroute the nomination centre in a large convoy of vehicles, the royal family of Raghogarh received warm welcome all through the way. The supporters were seen rushing to catch a glimpse of the family as they headed towards the district magistrateas office.

When Jaivardhan handed over his nomination paper to the magistrate, his son Sahasra Singh could also be seen holding the same.

Interestingly, Sahara Singh has already started attending public gatherings and delivering speeches. Recently, he even surprised his grandfather Digvijaya Singh with his public speech on the occasion of Kevat Jayanti.

Digvijaya Singh had then posted his grandsonas video on his social media handle with the message: aMy grandson Sahasrajya seems to have gone ahead of his father and grandfather!! We had never even thought of giving a speech at this age."

Balbhadra Singh, who was the 12th ruler of then Princely state Raghogarh, was elected a member of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly in 1952. His son Digvijaya Sigh also won several elections from his ancestral seat, and now his son Jaivardhan Singh is representing the constituency since 2013.

In 2018, Jaivardhan had defeated BJPas Bhupendra Singh Raghuvanshi by a margin of 46,697 votes. He was the Urban Development and Housing Minister in the Kamal Nath-led Congress government that was toppled within 15 months.
Assam warns govt employees against bigamy, insists on seeking approval for marriage if spouse is alive. Image Source: IANS News

Guwahati, Oct 26 : The Assam government has forbidden its employees from getting married to someone else while their spouse is still alive, and threatened to take legal action against them if they commit bigamy.

The Personnel Department issued an "Office Memorandum" (OM) instructing the staff to obtain government approval before getting married to someone else if their spouse is still alive.

The memorandum, however, made no mention of the divorce requirement.

"No government servant who has a wife living shall contract another marriage without first obtaining the permission of the government, notwithstanding that such subsequent marriage is permissible under the personal law for the time being applicable to him," the order mentioned.

Likewise, no female government servant shall marry any person who has her husband alive without first obtaining the permission of the government, said the OM, which came into force with immediate effect.

The notification was issued by Niraj Verma, an additional chief secretary in the Assam government, on October 20.

However, it came to light on Thursday.

It said the guidelines have been issued as per the provisions of Rule 26 of The Assam Civil Services (Conduct) Rules 1965.

The order said: "In the context of the above provisions, the disciplinary authority may initiate immediate departmental proceedings."

The OM further requested that, in the event that such incidents are discovered, authorities take the appropriate legal action.
Patna, Oct 26 : RJD P:esident Lalu Prasad Yadav on Thursday said that BJP will be wiped out in Bihar in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, apart from one seat of Patna.

Addressing a gathering at the Congress state headquarters, Sadakat Ashram, he said: "After the caste survey, it is clear that they (BJP) has only one per cent votes in Bihar. I was talking to a leader of Jan Sangh and he said that apart from Patna Lok Sabha seat, BJP is not going to win anywhere in Bihar.

"We are fighting for social justice in the country and Rahul Gandhi adopted its flag. He said that if we came into power in the country in 2024, we will conduct a caste based census in the entire country. The power will be distributed as per the social justice."

The event was to mark the 136 birth anniversary of Biharas first Chief Minister Sri Krishna Singh, popularly known as Sri Babu.

The celebration of Sri Krishna Singh's birth anniversary is also a bid by the Congress in Bihar to lure the voters of upper caste, especially his Bhumihar caste.

State Congress chief Akhilesh Prasad Singh said: "When I was elected a first-time MLA in 2000, Lalu Prasad Yadav made me cabinet minister in Bihar. He suggested that we celebrate the birth anniversary of Sri Babu and we are doing it. Lalu Ji is known for social justice in the country. He is healthy and he takes on the BJP in Bihar and the country.

"BJP is targeting its political opponents like Lalu Prasad Yadav through several raids. They raided Rajasthan CM Ashok Gahlotas son on Thursday. This is the working style of BJP and it will end in 2024."
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26 : The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has finally given its go-ahead for the water supply project of the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO) atop the Sikharchandi Hills in Bhubaneswar.

The tribunal had earlier put the project in abeyance after Sachin Mohapatra, a resident of Daruthenga village, had moved the tribunal alleging that trees were felled and big boulders were razed at the Sikharchandi Hills without obtaining permission from the forest department or other authorities concerned.

While hearing the petition, the tribunal delivered the order on October 20 allowing WATCO to go ahead with the construction work by ensuring that the elevated water storage tank project should remain confined to land area measuring three acres as proposed by the joint inspection committee in its report submitted on July 3.

"Though IDCO has made available four acres of land in question to WATCO for construction of the water tank for which, in any case, 3.22 acres of land is required, the joint committee has noted that as per the layout plan, three acres can be utilised. We direct WATCO not to exceed in any manner the area of three acres," read the NGT order.

The joint inspection committee inspected the construction area and held discussions with the locals, divisional forest officer of Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary and representatives of various stakeholders in the case.

The tribunal concluded that the area under Sikharchandi Hills is not part of any notified forest land and the hills also exist outside the eco sensitive zone of the Chandaka Sanctuary. Moreover, as the total area under construction work will be within 12140.6 sq mt, there is no need for an environmental clearance.
Amaravati, Oct 26 : The Centre will soon order a probe into liquor scam in Andhra Pradesh, BJP leader C.M. Ramesh said on Thursday.

He said the BJP has complained to the Centre with the names of the leaders of ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) involved in the scam.

He said the Centre will soon order a probe into it by the agencies like ED and CBI.

He alleged that there was rampant corruption in liquor, mining, electricity and other sectors in the state.

He said those involved will be exposed after assembly elections in five states.

Meanwhile, suspended YSRCP MLA and former Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy has demanded state BJP president Daggubati Purandeswari to convince the Centre to order a comprehensive probe into the liquor scam.

He said that it is not enough for the state BJP chief to come before the media and talk about the massive liquor scam.

Stating that the BJP which is in power at the Centre, Ramnarayan Reddy said Purandeswari should impress upon Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the need for an in-depth probe by Central investigation agencies like the Serious Fraud Investigation Office and Enforcement Directorate.

Purandeswari has stepped up attack on YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government over the alleged liquor scam.

She claimed that 16 companies out of 100 plus registered with the APSBCL are supplying 74 per cent of the liquor.

She slammed the state government for not revealing the names of the owners of distilleries supplying liquor to the Andhra Pradesh State Beverages Corporation Limited (APSBCL).

The former union minister alleged that some important distilleries among the 16 are owned by YSRCP MPs V. Vijayasai Reddy and P.V. Mithun Reddy.

She said the YSRCP government changed the liquor policy on October 2, 2019 to take over all the liquor shops, and the APSBCL started sourcing liquors from the distilleries registered with it for supply to all the retail outlets in the state.

She claimed that several of the distilleries were taken over by the ruling parties.

She said a distillery which received Rs 1,164 crore order, is backed by Vijayasai Reddy.

Purandeswari said another company was taken over forcibly by Mithun Reddy and it was given Rs 1,863 crore order.

She claimed that the company produces liquor under the brands that came to light only after 2019.

The BJP leader asked Jagan Mohan Reddy as to what happened to his poll promise to implement total prohibition in a phased manner.

She wanted to know what action he was taking against those indulging in illegal sale of liquor.

Meanwhile, state minister Botsa Satyanarayana said the government had been trying to discourage people from consuming liquor but tipplers are not ready to give up the habit.

"Let them investigate," he remarked when his reaction was sought on the statement of BJP leaders that they have complained to the Centre on alleged liquor scam and urged it to order a probe.
Imphal, Oct 26 : The Manipur government on Thursday extended the mobile Internet ban for another five days till October 31, an official said.

The move came after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh last week had indicated that the government would consider withdrawing the ban within the next few days.

Singh while addressing a government function last week has sought patience from the citizens, particularly the students and youth on the issue.

After the last month students' agitation, the Manipur government had on September 26, two days after the ban was lifted after 143 days, had suspended mobile Internet data services, internet/data services and after each five days the ban had been extended.

A Home Department notification on Thursday said that the ban was extended following "apprehensions that some anti-social elements might use social media extensively for transmission of images, hate speech and hate videos inciting the passions of the public which might have serious repercussions on the law and order situation".

The Director General of Police (DGP) on October 25 had "reported that there are still reports of incidents of violence like confrontation of the public with security forces, attempts to mob elected members residences and civil protests in front of police stations".

"To thwart the designs and activities of anti-nationals and anti-socials and to maintain peace and communal harmony and to prevent any loss of life, it has become necessary to take adequate measures to maintain law and order in public interest by stopping the spread of disinformation and rumours through social media platforms," the notification said.

Mobile Internet was banned in the state after the ethnic violence broke out on May 3.

Though it was restored on September 23, it had to be banned again on September 26 after students clashed with security forces following images of the bodies of two young missing students including a girl circulated in the social media.
Patna, Oct 27 : The drivers of app-based taxis like Ola and Uber in Patna went on indefinite strike on Thursday.

The drivers were assembled at the ground of Millar High School located at Veerchand Patel Path adjoining the JD-U office and suspended their work.

Due to the strike, passengers had to opt for three wheeler and buses to reach their destinations.

The striking drivers have various demands including minimum business guarantee to the tune of Rs 1,500 per day, the companies open offices in the city, and closure of three-wheeler and bike taxis in the city.

"The companies are victimising us as we invested Rs 10 lakh while purchasing the car but are not even earning Rs 10,000 per month. We are providing a ride of 10 km and get just Rs 100. We are unable to pay the installments of our cabs. How could we survive," said Rajesh Kumar, a cab driver.

Another driver Sanjay Paswan said: "The company gives some rides outside the city on the longer routes where many drivers become victims of physical assault. On many occasions, customers beat the drivers and snatched the cabs. We have huge security concerns as well. The companies are not addressing our security and we are providing services by risking our lives."

"Ola and Uber are big companies but neither of them have an office in Patna. The company is listening to the complaints of customers but not listening to the drivers," he added.
Patna October 26 : RJD Vice President Shivanad Tiwari claimed on Thursday that caste-based census has become a necessary condition to evict the BJP from the Centre.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi is shattered after several non-BJP states announced to conduct caste-based survey and hence he appealed to the countrymen to defeat those forces dividing the country on the basis of caste and regions while addressing the Ravan Dahan on Vijaya Dashmi in Delhi.

"The country has been divided on the basis of communal politics in the past. Today, Manipur is burning due to communal politics where over 200 people have been killed and more than 250 churches have been set on fire. But the Prime Minister did not bother to appeal for peace in Manipur," he said.

"In Hindu religion, a section of Dalit and tribal communities were not even given the status of humans in the past. Such deformity badly affected our country. Hence, as per the fundamentals of our Constitution, reservation was recommended to bring them into the mainstream of the society.

"The Constitution suggested forming a commission to count the number of Dalits and tribals and give reservation according to their population. Keeping this in view, the then Central government had constituted the Kaka Kalelkar Commission in 1953 to count their numbers.

"However, influential people conspired against it and were not allowed to implement the recommendations of the Commission. They did not even allow discussion on the issue. In that report, Kaka Kalelkar had recommended caste-based census in the country in 1961. Had that recommendation been implemented, the picture of the country would have been different today," Tiwari said.

"It is not right that people having no BJP ideology are demanding caste census. Late Gopinath Munde had demanded the same in 2010. In 2018, Rajnath Singh, then Home Minister, had announced that data of backward castepeople will be collected during the 2021 census but he is silent now due to the pressure of RSS. Caste-based census is the only way to evict the BJP from the Centre," Tiwari added.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 27 : Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Thursday said that the recent proposal by the National Council of Educational Research and Training to replace 'India' with 'Bharat' in textbooks is unacceptable, but Governor Arif Mohammed Khan said that is not an issue.

Vijayan, in a statement issued here on Thursday night, said as per the decision of NCERT's Committee on Social Science, the word 'India' should be changed to 'Bharat' in the textbooks of the academic branch.

"The Constitution refers to our nation as both India and Bharat. The politics behind avoiding India in it is as clear as daylight. The Sangh Parivar fears the inclusive politics represented by the phenomenon called India. The hatred against the word India is part of this," he said.

While Khan using the same argument said there is nothing wrong in it as the Constitution mentions both India and Bharat and hence itas fine.

However Vijayan goes on to add that the latest directives should be perceived as an extension of the previous instances of bigoted omissions from educational materials, which encompass the chapters concerning Mughal history and the ban on RSS in the aftermath of Gandhi's assassination.

"The NCERT is continually supporting efforts by the Sangh Parivar to distort history. The Textbook Committee has been eager to promote the fake narratives of history that the Parivar has been peddling," pointed out Vijayan.

"The Sangh Parivar has always been opposed to the idea of an 'India' based on pluralism and coexistence. The NCERT's new proposal is the latest example," he added and urged democratic forces in the country to oppose the unconstitutional proposals in the NCERT committee's position paper.

--IANS

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The conundrum of the century that haunts adults is when it is best to give schoolchildren a cell phone. About 77% of parents worry about their children having access to the Internet.

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Sean Lyons, director of online security at NetSafe and a former teacher, told the DailyMail that online fraud is a growing problem, so parents need to worry about their children's safety. In 2022, young people under 20 lost $210 million to criminals.

The expert notes that the growing number of victims of online fraud is due to the fact that young people are usually too scared to talk about it.

"Young people often do nothing. They suffer in silence, and it only makes the situation worse," Lyons said.

He added that the growth of fraud among children is happening due to the fact that criminals are becoming more experienced in how to target younger audiences. Thus, teenagers fall for manipulations with cryptocurrency investments that promise them to make a lot of money.

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The security specialist is even more concerned about the growing number of young people who are becoming "money mules." That is, people who, often unwittingly, keep illegal money in their bank accounts for some time. In particular, this happens through recruitment on social media and online games.

The criminals pose as companies providing IT services or game upgrades and ask teenagers to accept payments from their clients through digital payment platforms. As a payment,they may keep a portion of the money.

"Our priority at NetSafe is to involve parents as much as possible in the conversation about their child's first phone. They need to understand their role in keeping their children safe ," said the former teacher and gave ten tips on how to do so.

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Ten safety tips from Sean Lyons that all kids should know before they get their first phone

Keep your personal data safe with secret passwords and codes

Don't give out your personal information to strangers

Ignore people you don't know who reach out to get in touch

Turn off content that makes you feel uncomfortable

Block, remove and report shady content

If something upsets you online, talk to someone you trust

Don't believe everything you read or see online

Find a healthy balance between online and offline

Always treat people with kindness

Information can spread quickly on the Internet, so be careful what you share.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA reported that a psychologist named the optimal age for a child to buy the first phone.

Only verified information is available on theOBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A Delhi court has extended the police custody of the accused in the murder of Swiss national Nina Berger till October 30.

Nina's body, with limbs and legs bound with chains, was found near a school in West Delhi on October 20, and the accused, Gurpreet Singh, was arrested on October 21.

Metropolitan Magistrate Devanshu Sajlan of the Tis Hazari Courts extended Singh's police custody by five days after the Delhi Police sought an extension to quiz him.

During investigation, the police recovered various documents, including Nina's passport and visa, from Gurpreet's possession.

Initially, there were inconsistencies in the statements given by Singh, who was subsequently arrested in connection with the case.His statements regarding the murder kept changing.

As per Singh's interrogation, he had met Nina in 2021 during his visit to Switzerland, and their friendship had developed into a close bond. Singh frequently travelled to Switzerland to be near Nina. Over time, he expressed his desire to marry her, but she rejected his proposal.

Nina had arrived in Delhi from Zurich on October 11 and was staying in a hotel. However, as the interrogation of Singh continued, it became evident that he was attempting to mislead the police.

According to sources, the examination of the mobile phone of the accused revealed that he was in touch with at least a dozen women who were also foreigners, an evidence that possibly links the case to the police's human trafficking theory.

Significantly, the police recovered over Rs 2 crore in cash from Singh's residence in Janakpuri.

Further investigation revealed substantial financial transactions through Singh's bank account, leading the investigators to notify the Income Tax authorities. These high-value transactions and the unaccounted cash raised suspicions that the case might be related to human trafficking.

Moreover, the cuts and some burn marks on the victim's body also indicate that she was probably tortured before being killed.

Even the locks and chains, with which the woman was found tied, were bought just two days before the murder by the accused from a market in West Delhi.
Srinagar, Oct 27 : J&K Lt. Governor, Manoj Sinha has honoured women achievers of Kashmir division at a function organised by Army's Srinagar-based Chinar Corps.

In his address on Thursday, Sinha congratulated all the women achievers who have carved a niche for themselves and inspired other women to dream and accomplish new heights of success in various fields.

He lauded the noble initiative of Chinar Corps to empower 'Nari Shakti' acknowledging their contribution in nation building.

"Empowerment of women is pivotal for the empowerment of J&K. In the last few years, J&K administration has given priority to women empowerment based on the principles of equality, equal rights and equal opportunities as enshrined in the Constitution."

"I am proud to say that half of our population has made an immense contribution in the prosperity and growth of UT," he said.

The Lt. Governor highlighted several schemes and programmes being implemented in J&K under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which are intended for holistic empowerment of women and to realise their full potential.

"We have taken several steps through schemes of NRLM, Mission Youth, JKTPO, Industry & Commerce for the speedy economic empowerment of women in urban and rural areas," he added.

"In academics, our daughters are scripting new history and charting a new future with new confidence and a sense of self-esteem," he said.

On the occasion, women achievers were felicitated for their extraordinary contribution in diverse fields like education, law, entrepreneurship, social work, health, literary, sports, journalism etc.

Lt General Rajiv Ghai, GOC 15 Corps; Major General Mohit Seth, GoC Kilo Force, senior officers from Army, eminent personalities from diverse fields and family members of women achievers were present.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Congress on Thursday expressed "anguish and shock" over the disturbing developments in Qatar where eight former Indian Navy personnel, who have been in custody there since last year, being awarded death sentence.

The party said it expects that the government will use its diplomatic and political leverage with the Qatar government to the maximum to ensure that former naval officers have full recourse to appeal for release.

In a post on X, Congress General Secretary (Communication) Jairam Ramesh said, "The Indian National Congress has noted with the greatest anguish, distress and shock the most disturbing developments in Qatar regarding 8 former officers of the Indian Navy.

"It hopes and expects that the Govt of India will use its diplomatic and political leverage with the Qatar government to the maximum to ensure that the officers have full recourse to appeals and also do the utmost to get them released at the earliest."

Ramesh's remarks came after news surfaced that eight former Indian Navy personnel, who have been in custody in Qatar since last year, have been awarded death sentence.

The eight persons were arrested last year after being charged with spying for Israel by Qatari authorities.

The accused, including decorated officers who once commanded major Indian warships, were working for Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provides training and related services to Qatar's armed forces.

Their bail pleas were rejected numerous times and their detention was extended by the Qatari authorities.
Tel Aviv, Oct 27 : The Hamas, which has massacred 1,400 people in Israel in the October 7 attack and taken 222 people hostages, have said that 50 of these hostages were killed reportedly by Israel air strikes.

Hamas spokesperson, Abu Ubaida has in a post in the Telegram channel of the group on Thursday said, "Al Qassam Brigade estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist killings and massacres reached approximately 50 people."

However, there are reports and statements of certain Israeli intelligence operatives that Hamas has executed 50 hostages and have put the blame on Israel.

Tel Aviv witnessed protests from families and friend of hostages and in the Museum Square on Thursday there was a massive demonstration.

Speakers called upon the Israeli government that they have lost patience and the government must act and bring the captured back home.
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M7 Real Estate has let c. 8,500 sq m of industrial warehouse space in Lezama to Belgicast International by AVK Holding, a European leader of water management. This new lease brings the c. 90,000 sq m urban logistics portfolio in Spain, which M7 compiled in 2022 on behalf of Oxford

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This marks a new chapter for Tulsa aviation, and we look forward to seeing the impacts of this implementation in the months and years to come. Post this

Woolpert Vice President Ryan Butler said the implementation for both airports took less than 45 days using the firm's Aviation Rapid Ready solution. Rapid Ready is a preconfigured package of aviation-specific asset data structures and workflows developed in the Cityworks software.

"We were able to leverage our decades of aviation and Cityworks expertise to develop a ready-to-implement package of capabilities based on airport best practices," Butler said. "With this approach, our Rapid Ready solution offers airports a significantly quicker turnaround compared to custom implementation."

Tulsa International Airport Director of Operations Cole Brown said that the implementation will help simplify the airports' complex business functions and promote cohesive communication across departments.

"Working with Woolpert to launch Cityworks at both Tulsa International Airport and Tulsa Riverside Airport has been an invaluable step forward in providing a streamlined workflow and improved experience for our team, as well as our airport guests," Brown said. "This marks a new chapter for Tulsa aviation, and we look forward to seeing the impacts of this implementation in the months and years to come."

About Woolpert

Woolpert is the premier architecture, engineering, geospatial (AEG), and strategic consulting firm, with a vision to become one of the best companies in the world. We innovate within and across markets to effectively serve public, private, and government clients worldwide. Woolpert is a Global Top 100 Geospatial Company, a Top 100 ENR Global Design firm, has earned seven Great Place to Work certifications, and actively nurtures a culture of growth, inclusion, diversity, and respect. Founded in 1911 in Dayton, Ohio, Woolpert has been America's fastest-growing AEG firm since 2015. Woolpert has over 2,000 employees and more than 60 offices on five continents. For more, visit woolpert.com.

Media Contact

Lynn Rossi, Woolpert, 312-837-2017, [email protected], https://woolpert.com/

SOURCE Woolpert
Scientists have announced a major breakthrough in the treatment of cervical cancer. The new method increases a patient's chances of recovery by 35%.

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It consists in combining conventional radiation therapy with a certain set of relatively inexpensive drugs that significantly increase the effectiveness of treatment. The clinical trial data were presented at the meeting of the European Society of Medical Oncologists (ESMO), the BBC reports.

The researchers announced the results of the clinical trials, which summarized a multi-year experiment involving 500 women. Half of the patients diagnosed with cervical cancer were recommended the "usual" course of treatment - chemoradiation therapy with weekly cisplatin.

For the other half, doctors additionally prescribed an intensive six-week course of two other drugs that have been widely used in oncology for decades.

In the five years since the start of the study, more than a quarter of the patients in the first group (28%) died of cancer, and every third (36%) relapsed, meaning that they failed to completely overcome the disease.

ADVERTISIMENT

At the same time, 20% of patients in the second group died. In 73%, doctors recorded a stable remission, meaning that the tumor did not return or at least did not grow within five years.

Representatives of the British charity Cancer Research UK, which funded the study, have already called the results "outstanding." They expressed hope that oncologists around the world will adopt the new technique as soon as possible.

"This is the biggest improvement in the treatment of this disease in the last 20 years," said Mary McCormack, a leading researcher at the Institute of Cancer at University College London.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- The first transplantation of the heart-lung complex was performed in Ukraine. In the world, only 20-25 of them are performed per year. To perform it, the teams of the First Medical Association of Lviv and the Kyiv Heart Institute joined forces at the operating table.

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- Lviv surgeons operated on a baby born with a 1 kilogram tumor. The giant mass was removed by surgeons at St. Nicholas Children's Hospital.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and in Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The European Union is behind schedule in supplying artillery shells to the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Earlier, the EU promised to provide 1 million rounds of ammunition by March, but now the deadline is being pushed back.

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This situation gives the Russian occupation army an additional advantage on the battlefield. It was reported by Bloomberg.

The European Union pledged to provide Ukraine with artillery ammunition by using existing stocks, and then through joint procurement contracts and increased industrial capacity. However, to date, the initiative has been implemented by only 30% of the planned figure. Based on the volume of contracts signed to date, deliveries may be disrupted.

Due to this backlog, a number of EU countries have asked the bloc's foreign policy department to extend the deadline. In addition, the United States urged the EU to step up its efforts. At the same time, representatives of the White House refused to comment on this issue.

Analysts point out that preparations for a prolonged Russian-Ukrainian war are forcing the EU to keep up with Russian production of artillery ammunition. It is predicted that in 2024, the aggressor country, Russia, could produce about 2 million artillery shells. Moreover, the Kremlin has agreed with North Korea to purchase Soviet-era weapons.

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Ukraine's European allies hoped that the pace of military aid would match the production of the Russian military-industrial complex. In addition, the EU expects that the Ukrainian army has gained an advantage due to the higher standards of Western shells and weapons.

In March 2023, EU foreign ministers approved a plan for joint supplies of ammunition to Ukraine. It envisages the transfer of 1 million artillery shells to Kyiv within a year.

Earlier it was reported that in the summer of 2023, US President Joe Biden approved the supply of cluster munitions to Ukraine. The agreement on cluster munitions for the Armed Forces of Ukraine was reached after several months of internal debate.

As OBOZ.UA previously reported, Oleksandr Kovalenko, a military and political observer at the Information Resistance group, believes that the supply of artillery ammunition and MLRS missiles from North Korea to the Russian army will not change the balance of power at the front in Ukraine.

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Only verified information on our Telegram channel Obozrevatel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Author-illustrator David Macaulays books have been awarded the Caldecott Medal and Honor and have sold more than one million copies in the U.S.and it all began with his debut picture book, Cathedral. The book, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, traces the construction of the fictional Cathedral of Chutreaux. Relayed through intricate pen-and-ink drawings, Cathedral laid the foundation for his series of architectural picture books for young readers, including City, Pyramid, and Castle, which in turn inspired a number of PBS specials. Macaulay recently reunited via Zoom with his former student at the Rhode Island School of Design, Caldecott Medalist Brian Floca, to discuss the books origin storyinvolving a trip to France and plenty of Muscadetand its enduring impact on childrens literature.

Brian Floca: Congratulations on 50 years of Cathedral. When I look just at the book itself, that number is hard to believe; the text and drawings and the way they work together feel as fresh and smart as ever. And yet, when I look at the field of childrens books, 50 years makes perfect sense. There are so many books on the shelves todayand I include my own, certainlythat I dont think would be there, that I dont think would have been dreamt up, without the example and inspiration of Cathedral. For many of us in this line of work, the book is now as much of a monument as the building it describes. Anita Silvey put it succinctly in Childrens Books and Their Creators; she describes Cathedral as a book that was to completely alter the face of American informational books for children.

David Macaulay: Im so glad she didnt write that before I started the book. I wanted to do a good job of course, but the lack of outside expectations kept the bar at a reasonable height. I had no idea where the book would go or if it would be successful. I was just so pleased to be able to make a book.

Floca: Over the years, Ive had so many conversations with other authors and illustrators, published or aspiring, successful or struggling, about this weird field: about trying to get into it, about trying to find or refine ones voice or style, or ones focus. Or about finding the editor and team who will help you become the artist you want to be, or finding an audience, or hoping for recognition... all of it. And one of the incredible things about Cathedral is you hit all of these marks with your very first book. And you were, what, 27 when it came out?

Macaulay: Almost.

Floca: Almost. One way to think of this is as a really horrible thing for other 26-year-olds to hear about.

Macaulay: I think we all deserve a little leeway on the first book. You just give it your best shot and hope for a little luck along the way. I happened to start my journey at the right time and in the right place.

Floca: Thats exactly one of the things I wanted to ask about. It takes a certain ecosystem to allow something like this to happen. Maybe we could start with hearing about where you were in your life and career when Cathedral came about, but also where Houghton Mifflin was, and about Cathedrals editor, Walter Lorraine, too, and anybody else we should know about?

Macaulay: First of all, I was a graduate of Rhode Island School of Design with an architecture degree and no desire to become an architect. Having said that, I cant overstate my gratitude for that education. Among the many things I learned, two stand out. Number one: good design isnt magic, its hard work. And number two: good design depends on having good problems to solve. So the first thing you have to do is design your own problems to meet whatever the overall demands are.

During junior year, I started working for an interior designer and artist in his own right, named Maurice Nathanson. He was one of the first people to encourage me to think about illustration. After getting a few freelance advertising jobs and then some textbook work, I started trying to illustrate stories, one written by Maurice and others by my friend Mary Shaffer. I soon found myself happily enrolled in the teach-yourself-picture-book-illustration school.

At some point I found the phone numbers of three Boston childrens book publishers in the Yellow Pages and made appointments to present my first attempts. I did this a couple of times, but the most encouraging response always came from Houghton Mifflin and the editor who was tasked with sifting through requests like mine, Melanie Kroupa. It was another no, thank you, but it came with a please try us again. When I finally showed up with my absolutely guaranteed sure to please classic gargoyle beauty pageant book, they cracked. This time I was introduced to Walter Lorraine.

Along with a few small sketches, I had made two large pen-and-ink drawings with lots of cross-hatching (trying to be Sendak). Walter looked at the flying gargoyles, no comment, and then at my drawing of the facade of a half-finished Gothic cathedral. His response, more or less, was I dont think we need more gargoyles, but why didnt you tell us about this building?

The wound healed and the hole was quickly filled by the challenge. Two days later, I was back in the RISD library, an architecture student once again, looking at the spines of books about cathedrals. John Fitchens The Construction of Gothic Cathedrals stopped me in my tracks. The information was so clearly explained in words and diagrams. I quickly began to see it: some cross-hatching and a bit of a story. Over the next few days, I made sketches on tracing paper covering the whole saga from a plan to a finished building. The next time Walter, Melanie, and I met, I laid the sketches out on a long table and told them the story. This time Walter said, Okay, lets do it. And that was November of 1972. The book came out on September 13, 1973.

Floca: Theres so much to talk about in this story. For starters, we were just discussing the importance of choosing the right problem. And yet it turns out you had actually set out to Houghton with a very different sort of problem than the one that would ultimately get you to Cathedral, and from Cathedral to so many of your other books. That says a lot about Walter, but also about your ability to, you knowyou wouldnt have accepted a new problem if you hadnt recognized something within it that spoke to you.

Macaulay: Absolutely right. Walter gave me an opportunity and even though it meant that my classic gargoyle beauty pageant book would most likely never see the light of day, I took it. For the next 30 years I was guided by Walters suggestions and questions, but most of all by his complete faith in me to make the best stuff I could. It doesnt get better than that. It cant.

Floca: I was fortunate to have what sounds like a similar sort of relationship with Dick Jackson. And it brings to mind something maybe relevant here, something I once heard Chris Raschka say about Dick and his willingness to place a bet on a new author or illustrator: that Dick would publish you because he thought your fifth book might be successful.

Macaulay: We both got lucky, but that fundamental belief in the possibilities of a person rather than a particular book, that also was Walter. Houghton had the same kind of trust in Walter as Walter I guess had in me. And what you just mentioned about Dick Jackson, its not about the first book being a great success. Walter believed in the book, but even more so, he believed in me. Talk about going out on a limb.

Floca: Its a daisy chain of trust and gambles. Houghton has to trust and take a gamble on Walter. Then he has to extend that trust and take those gambles on his authors and illustrators.

Macaulay: And we in turn, you know, respond with the thought, I will not let you down. But what did I know about making an actual book? Zero. Still, I knew what the basic problems were as I went along, and I was excited by the challenge. The rest I figured out by trial and error.

 I happened to start my journey at the right time and in the right place.David Macaulay 

Floca: And then youre trusting and taking a gamble on the reader, too, that they are up for reading about a certain subject at a certain level.

Macaulay: Fortunately, I was completely ignorant about that side of things as well. All I could do was give it my best effort. How do you write a childrens book? I dont even know. Yeah, I had one child. And she was like a year old at this point, or a year and a half. So I wasnt going to test anything on her. I didnt even think about that. I thought about what book do I want to write? What book would I want to read? What book would I have wanted when I was younger? What does it mean, when I was younger? When I was 10? Or when I was like 18?

Floca: Its fascinating to hear you talk about what you knew and didnt know. Inexperience can be a sword with two edges, but in this case what you didnt know worked out for you and for the book in only the happiest ways.

Macaulay: Happily oblivious to all that stuff, I got a contractit wasnt a dream after alla couple of days before Christmas, and took the next step.

Floca: I was just reading this in Building the Book Cathedral. You flew to Amiens...

Macaulay: Ah yes, my first business trip. I went to Amiens because I had used a photo of that citys facade to make the first drawing for the gargoyle beauty pageant. It was also built in something like 25 to 30 years, a manageable length of time for my little starter story. I checked into the first hotel I found not far from the railway station, dropped my bag, pointed and grunted my way to art supplies, and set off to meet my subject. It was pretty easy to spot. In my jet- and train-lagged stupor, I wandered into this enormous, magnificent structure and sat down to take it in. My head was spinning with the challenge of capturing it all under construction, and by this time I was also hungry. Dinner at the hotel, a half bottle of Muscadet, sleep, and up early. I ate my meals in the hotel in the restaurant downstairs, I had a half bottle of Muscadet with lunch, and another half bottle with dinner. I repeated this strategy for three or four days.

Floca: You mentioned pointing and grunting. I take it you didnt speak French.

Macaulay: Not even close, so I couldnt ask any questions about the building or whether or not it might be possible to get up above the vaulting and see the roof. I just sat there and imagined myself in those places. I didnt even sketch. I just sat there with the Fitchen images in my head and started to take it apart. I also wandered around the city to see the building from different angles and distances. I wanted to be able to make a few repeated images from the same point of view to show the growing structure, along with cross-sections for a simplified version of the structure and close-ups now and then to illustrate a craft or a detail I thought might be relevant. That was it. No magic, as promised.

Floca: Youve got the set of home base images, then youve got the more dynamic images to keep the energy going, then youve got the humanity of the people in it and all the little details that are tucked in.

Macaulay: Basically yes, that was it: an extension of the crude sketches I showed Walter and Melanie a month earlier. On my second day in Amiens, I came across an art shop and somehow managed to buy a few sheets of Fabriano paper, a pen, some nibs, and a bottle of India ink. One piece of the paper completely covered the tiny round table in my room, which meant that the ink bottle sat on the drawing paper as I worked. Not a great idea, but once again, I was lucky.

Floca: I was going to ask about that. I saw that in Building the Book Cathedral and I thought, does he really mean he did final art in his hotel room?

Macaulay: Yep. I knew what I wanted the beginning and the end of the book to look like, so those are the drawings I made: the cover and final drawing, the three-quarter view of the finished cathedral and the title page drawing.

Floca: Incredible. This with just a bottle of Muscadet and a bottle of ink.

Macaulay: And you try not to get them mixed up. Muscadet with lunch and dinner. It was especially helpful, I have to tell you, when, after dinner, I started trying to write the version of the story.

Floca: Not to belabor this, and maybe this just speaks to my own compulsions, but Im amazed you were able to make those initial drawings and then illustrate the rest of the book without feeling at the end of the process something like, well, along the way Ive figured out this or that additional aspect of this building, and now I need to go back and redo those first drawings to bring them up to the level of the others. You did the drawings in your hotel room, and when they were done, they were done; and theyre in the book, and theyre beautiful.

Macaulay: Sadly, though, the innocence of that process never happened again. Ever. When you start with a success, youre always competing with yourself and wondering whether or not you will meet the expectations you know are now out there. If you have to start your career with a Caldecott Honor, so be it, but it is kind of a high bar.

Floca: I was hoping we could get to that.

Macaulay: I was just so happy to be making a book. Its that simple. And so pleased to be working with Walter and Melanie. If they thought this was going to work, then who was I to argue? I did what came naturally and used my common sense and Cathedral was the result.

Floca: And when Cathedral came out, how quickly did it become clear to you that the book was receiving a certain kind of attention, that it was going to do well, even if nobody could have predicted just how well? What was that like?

Macaulay: Well, people said really nice things, pretty much from the start. It was intoxicating. No Muscadet required.

Floca: Back to the timeline here. When did you get the contract, November of?

Macaulay: I got the go ahead at the end of November, and the actual contract in December of 1972.

Floca: And now were talking about the book coming out in the fall of 73?

Macaulay: Yes. Once I got home from France, I just drew all the time to get the art finished by the end of April. The story was written in January. I did take one very helpful shortcut. Since I already had the last drawing, all I had to do was work backwards towards the hole in the ground. So I had copies made of the last drawing, which I simply cut up and worked over to create the building sequence. Theyve now all fallen apart, but they did the trick.

Floca: I remember seeing an exhibit of your originals at Old Slater Mill, just outside of Providence, in Pawtucket, and I could see you had used that method. That was a little revelation for me.

Macaulay: If I do the same kind of thing today, I do it on the computer and with Photoshop. No rubber cement, no stain, no smell.

Floca: So all told, were talking about, what, four months? Were you working day and night?

Macaulay: I was working long days, but not overnight. It was comfortable enough. I wore the same sweater, a new one Id received for Christmas, every day. I wore it again when I worked on City and even Pyramid. Luck, anyone?

Floca: I feel I need to recap. You cold-called Houghton Mifflin, you pitched the gargoyle book, Walter responded with a question that opened up this alternate path, you responded with a completely new book proposal, got the green light in November, got the contract in December, went to France in January, finished the book in April. My head is spinning.

But then what? The art is done, the book is going to come out in September. What happens now?

Macaulay: Well, Walter and I were in New York doing some promotion before the book was out and he asked me what was next. The only other thing I felt I knew a little bit about was Roman planning and building because of a terrific history of Rome course Id taken at RISD. So in the summer of 1973, before Id actually held a hardcover copy of Cathedral, I was back in Italy and southern France doing my research for the next book. So in January of 74, when Walter calls to tell me Ive been awarded a Caldecott Honor, Im drawing an amphitheater and Roman sewers.

Floca: I reviewed your bibliography in preparation for our talk and the schedule for those first few years struck me as almost implausible: Cathedral in 1973, City in 1974, Pyramid in 1975, Underground in 1976, Castle in 1977. Did you have in the back of your mind, as Cathedral was wrapping up, a sense that there would be a book after that, and a next book after that, and so on, and if so, did that come with a feeling of anticipation, or did you ever feel tied to an assembly line, or what?

Macaulay: As I worked on Cathedral, I had no reason to believe that I was creating a schedule that would take over my life. I just wanted to see my name on the cover of a book that I had made. It didnt matter that much what it was about. So City comes out in the fall of 74. In November of that year, I went to Egypt to start gathering information and images for Pyramid. But by the time we got to Underground it was a really welcome breakno historical stuff. Walter and I were talking at lunch one day about what happens underground in a city. I decided to find out and then to explain it.

Floca: And you do some new things in that book. With Cathedral everything feels real, feels grounded. Youre involving us, youre making us feel physically present for the creation of this thing. In Underground, youre ungrounding the subject, in a wayyoure removing the earth and showing us cities and systems floating in the air, in ways we could never really see them, but ways that help us better understand them.

Macaulay: It was a book that could easily have been incredibly dull. The challenge was to engage the imagination of the reader, and that meant taking serious liberties such as removing all the soil and clay and getting down to bedrock. Im very proud of Underground because it was the first book I did that seemed somewhat original. I got almost all my information from actual people rather than from other books. Then with Castle, it was back to the formula and ironically another Caldecott Honor. I knew I couldnt just keep making the same book over and over.

Floca: Theres a kind of person who could do that, but thats probably not the kind of person who would think that an interesting way to show how piers support a building would be to put the viewer 30 stories under the sidewalk and make the earth invisible, for example. Which is to say, if youre motivated by finding interesting new ways of looking at things, youre probably prohibited from cashing in by repeating yourself 50 times.

Macaulay: Lets face it. Safety is not the goal of this or any artistic profession. We chose a risky path in the first place and then we make things worse by trying to keep things interesting for ourselves while at the same time making a living. You have to be a little unhinged in a good way to do this, but it also helps to have great people behind you, next to you.

Floca: What if any nonfiction books or narrative or informational books were you looking at before you made Cathedral? Did you have books that set a precedent you felt you were following? Or is this again a case of benefiting from not knowing what you didnt know and just following your good instincts?

Macaulay: That was pretty much the case. None of the books that lured me into the field were information books. They were all fiction, more along the lines of the gargoyle story, but much better. I saw terrific illustratorsSendak, Delessert, Ungerer, McKeetelling stories and having fun, and I wanted to join the party.

Floca: So we could say you ended up writing and illustrating a groundbreaking, genre-defining, genre-shaping informational book by not setting out to make an informational book at all?

Macaulay: Bingo!
Acclaimed childrens author, distinguished childrens librarian, and stalwart champion of intellectual freedom Susan Patron, best known for her Newbery Medal-winning novel The Higher Power of Lucky, died October 24 in Los Angeles, following a long battle with lung cancer. She was 75.

Patron was born March 18, 1948, in San Gabriel, Calif., near Los Angeles, where she grew up the middle of three daughters of George and Rubye Hall. From the age of eight, Patron already knew she wanted to be a writer, she said in a Something About the Author interview in 1994. When she told her father about her career ambitions, I received both encouragement (go ahead: if you want to be a writer, write) and excellent advice (learn how to type), she said. He offered further wisdom when he suggested story ideas were all around if she just kept her ears open. I began eavesdropping and hearing stories everywhere, she recalled.

By 1965 Patron was enrolled at Pitzer College in Claremont, Calif., and would later spend her junior year abroad at Trinity College, Dublin. During her time in Ireland, Patron sharpened her listening-for-stories skills, surrounded by gowned professors as well as the cab drivers, the children and the pub oratorsthe best extemporaneous talkers in the world. She received her B.A. from Pitzer in 1969 and shortly after graduation she married native Frenchman Rene Patron, a rare book restorer who had recently opened his own business. When planning her own next steps, Patron recalled to SATA, Rene said, The bravest, kindest, most interesting people I have met in America are librarians.  Following that supportive signpost from her husband, she soon earned a masters of library science from nearby Immaculate Heart College in 1972the same year she landed a position as childrens librarian at the Los Angeles Public Library.

Patron thrived in her librarian role, rising to senior childrens librarian and juvenile materials collection development manager and training while mentoring librarians at 72 different branches over her 35-year tenure at LAPL before retiring in 2007. She served on committees for childrens book awards and other work for ALA and ALSC and was a member of the board of advisors for KCET public televisions Storytime program.

All the while she focused on her keen ear for stories. At the library she observed first-hand the kinds of tales that kids enjoyed most, and she also launched STORY: Seniors Taking the Opportunity to Reach Youth, a program that recruited older adults to learn storytelling techniques. By the late 1980s, these experiences were among the catalysts for Patron to at last follow her long-held dream of being a writer and try her hand at creating books for children.

Patron sent her first manuscript, a contemporary retelling of Stone Soup, off to several publishing houses before esteemed editor Richard Jackson at Orchard offered her a contract. Burgoo Stew, the first of three picture books illustrated by Mike Shenon about a boy named Billy Que, his rowdy pals, and the Dustdobbins that live under his bed, was published in 1991. She followed those up with the chapter book Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe (Orchard, 1993) and picture book Dark Cloud Strong Breeze, illustrated by Peter Catalanotto (Orchard, 1994), before hitting what she described as a wall in a 2007 interview with Cynthia Leitich Smith. It wasnt until 2003 that Patron overcame her writers block and found her way into the heart of a long-gestating story that would become The Higher Power of Lucky (Atheneum/Richard Jackson, 2006), which was awarded the 2007 Newbery Medal.

In the novel, Patron introduces 10-year-old Lucky, who lives in tiny mining town Hard Pan, Calif., as the ward of a Frenchwoman after her mother dies and her father abandons her. Like the child-version of myself, Lucky eavesdrops on adult conversations; she is searching for a form of spirituality, a higher power, Patron told PW in 2007. Its while listening in on a 12-step meeting that Lucky hears a local mans account of how a rattlesnake bit his dog on the scrotum. Use of the word sparked controversy as librarians, teachers, parents, and authors took sides on the issue of censorship and efforts to ban the title from libraries. At the time, Patron addressed the situation in a statement which first ran in PW, noting that she was shocked and horrified about the uproar.

After her retirement from LAPL in 2007, Patron continued Luckys journey in two sequels, Lucky Breaks (Atheneum, 2009) and Lucky for Good (Atheneum, 2011). Over the span of her years as an author, she was a long-serving member of SCBWIs Advisory Council. Lin Oliver, co-founder of that organization, one of Patrons lifelong friends, and current SCBWI Impact and Legacy Fund managing director, wrote, Susans contribution to childrens books was immeasurable. She imbued everything she did with grace, charm, wit, and wisdomfrom her books to her counsel to her librarianship. She was a true lover of books, language, and people, beloved by all her colleagues in the SCBWI. Her life was a blessing to us all.

Caitlyn Dlouhy, v-p and publisher of her eponymous imprint at S&S/Atheneum, who worked closely with Patron, offered these words of tribute: The higher power of Susan. That was always my first smiling thought after any conversation, letter exchange, or manuscript revision with her. She was incapable of writing even an email that you didnt want to re-read three times as it was so insightful, provoking, or flat-out funny. I imagine her choosing each word with that particular slight tilt to her head when she landed on the exact one she needed.

Susan had a sublime way of looking at, then writing about, the worlddont get me started on owl pellets. Her wayin all thingswas fierce yet gentle, grounded in reality yet bolstered by an almost visionary sense of hope that subsequently shimmered up through every book she wrote. Which made sense. To Susan, hope was a Higher Power that every kid deserved. She was also living proof of the power of wordsa single word, in fact, one word that sent a quake through schools, libraries, and the media. Her response to the maelstrom that followed? Fiercely gentle, realistic but hopeful, trusting and respecting the readers intelligence, calmly fighting the crows of fear caw[ing] into our ears. The Higher Power of Lucky? The higher power of Susan Patron.

Virginia Ginny Walter, professor emerita at UCLAs school of education and information studies, was one of Patrons longtime LAPL colleagues. She shared this remembrance: Susan and I met in 1973 when we were both working at the Los Angeles Public Library. I was a young adult librarian; she was a childrens librarian. LAPL is a big system, and we probably wouldn't have known each other except for Giraffe. That was the name of the newsletter that an informal group of us young radical librarians circulated. Our motto was we stick our necks out as we critiqued library policies that we felt hindered free and equitable services. We also promoted bold, new ideas. That was the start of a long and rewarding friendship.

Many young readers have enjoyed Susans words in books like The Higher Power of Lucky. Her friends also had the pleasure of reading her well-chosen words in emails. Just days before she died, she sent an email to a few friends in which she talked about her husband Rene who was in a wheelchair because of a broken hip. He managed to lift himself up out of the chair, lean over, and give me a kiss.

I will miss her.

And fellow Newbery Medalist Cynthia Kadohata remembered her friend this way: I last saw Susan years ago when she, her husband, my boyfriend, and I had lunch in a small Italian restaurant near where we both then lived. We talked sparingly of books, and more about dogs. The Patrons had a ridgeback they loved very much, and I had my Dobermans. What I remember most about her though was that after many years together, she and her husband were still so deeply in love as to be residing in a world of their own, quite separate from the world the rest of us lived in. A part of their beautiful souls belonged only to each other. I always think of that as evidence of how deep her understanding was of what really matters during our time here, and I ponder it every time I need a reminder.
Metinvest Group has launched mass production of mine trawls of a similar design to the KMT-7, which are mounted on tanks to neutralize and detonate anti-tank and anti-personnel mines. After passing all the necessary tests from the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the mine trawls were handed over to the National Guard and the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Metinvest has already started supplying the equipment to the Ukrainian army. The planned production volume is up to five trawls per month, according to the company's website.

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Mine trawls are a purely Ukrainian product made from Ukrainian steel at Metinvest Group's enterprises in Ukraine as part of the Steel Front initiative of businessman Rinat Akhmetov.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces' need for trawls is urgent due to the enemy's dense mining along the entire frontline. Metinvest engineers have improved the KMT-7 mine trawls by making their own alternative: paired rollers mounted on tanks. The cost of manufacturing one trawl is about UAH 2.5 million, including additional equipment for tank crews required to mount the device.

"Our defenders risk their lives every day to overcome minefields, which have become one of the biggest obstacles to our counteroffensive. We want to help save the equipment, but most importantly, we want to save the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. That's why we have started producing mine trawls for the Armed Forces. These trawls have passed all the tests and are already being used in the hottest spots of the frontline, taking over mine detonation instead of tanks and armored vehicles. This is just the first step for Metinvest in a large project to help demine Ukraine. We have been doing and will continue to do everything to help our country win and return peace to our land," Rinat Akhmetov said.

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One set of rollers weighs 6.5 tons and measures 3.77 x 3.44 meters. According to the Ukrainian Armed Forces standards, one trawl should be able to withstand 4-5 anti-tank mine explosions. Since the trawls work in pairs, both must be able to withstand 8 to 10 explosions. The trawl is routinely mounted on the main battle tanks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Metinvest's mine trawls will be primarily supplied to the National Guard and Army brigades in the hottest spots of the frontline. To help the combat brigades to quickly repair the trawls after use, the company has also launched the production of components for the products, which allows them to quickly return the mine-resistant equipment to the frontline.

"Mine trawls are an important component of counteroffensive operations. They not only protect Ukrainian tank crews but also clear the way for infantry. The availability of such equipment, which can be manufactured by Ukrainian enterprises, is critical for the country during the war. It allows Ukraine's security and defense forces to be sure in the rear, in this case, Ukrainian metallurgists, miners, and engineers from Metinvest," said Andriy Beliaev, commander of the Khortytsia 25th Public Security Protection Brigade of the National Guard.

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It should be noted that Metinvest has been systematically supporting the Ukrainian defense since the first days of the full-scale invasion. Over a year and a half of military aggression, the company has already allocated UAH 2 billion to support the defenders of Ukraine as part of Rinat Akhmetov's Steel Front initiative. This includes 150,000 bulletproof vests manufactured at the company's own facilities and purchased, more than 280 mobile shelters, 250 high-precision models of military equipment, more than 30 "Lancet drone catchers", as well as thousands of drones and thermal imagers, vehicles, communications equipment, and other military equipment purchased and donated to the Ukrainian defense forces.


Amazon Web Services is introducing a new, independent cloud for Europe that gives customers in highly regulated industries and the public sector more choice when addressing data residency and resilience requirements in the EU. It will be physically and logically separate from existing AWS Regions. Amazon Web Services is introducing a new, independent cloud for Europe that gives customers in highly regulated industries and the public sector more choice when addressing data residency and resilience requirements in the EU. It will be physically and logically separate from existing AWS Regions.



Located and operated within Europe, AWS European Sovereign Cloud will allow customers to keep all metadata they create in the EU. Only EU-resident AWS employees who are located in the EU will have control of the operations and support for the AWS European Sovereign Cloud, AWS has revealed. It will have its own billing and usage metering systems.



Customers, AWS Partners, and regulators welcoming the new AWS European Sovereign Cloud, include German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, Deutsche Telekom, O2 Telefonica in Germany, Telia Company, Accenture and Deloitte. Among approx. 20 companies and organisations listing their support, the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI), the National Cyber and Information Security Agency (NUKIB) in the Czech Republic, and National Cyber Security Directorate of Romania are listed.



AWS European Sovereign Cloud is designed to help public sector customers and those in highly regulated industries meet the most stringent regulatory data residency and operational requirements. It provides the same security, availability, and performance as existing AWS Regions, giving customers additional choice to meet their data residency, operational autonomy, and resiliency needs.



The AWS European Sovereign Cloud will launch with its first AWS Region in Germany and will be available to all European customers. AWS says the new cloud will give customers access to the strongest sovereignty controls among leading cloud providers. All metadata created can stay in the EU. This includes roles, permissions, resource labels, and configurations used to run AWS.



The AWS European Sovereign Cloud reinforces our commitment to offering AWS customers the most advanced set of sovereignty controls, privacy safeguards, and security features available in the cloud, states Max Peterson, Vice President of Sovereign Cloud at AWS.



For more than a decade, weve worked with governments and regulatory bodies across Europe to understand and meet evolving needs in cybersecurity, data privacy and localisation, and more recently, digital sovereignty. With this new offering, customers and Partners across Europe will have more choice to achieve the operational independence they require, without compromising on the broadest and deepest cloud services that millions of customers already know and use today.



Photo credit: Guillaume Perigois on Unsplash.
In my book, The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves, I show why civilitybasic respect for othersis essential to a free society. Heres a story that exemplifies why.

In the early 2000s, Mayor Michael Bloomberg launched a campaign against rudeness in New York City. Subway riders and showgoers could be fined fifty dollars for inconsiderately resting their feet on a bench or for using their phones during movies or Broadway shows. The citys noise code was overhauled to crack down on loud nightclubs and barking dogs and to promote neighborhood peace. Cell phones were banned in movie theaters, and smoking was banned in public places.



Other New York City officials, emboldened and inspired by Bloomberg, took aim at impoliteness at sporting events, arresting, fining, and imprisoning people for spitting or throwing objects onto the field. One man was sentenced to nine weekends in jail, fined two thousand dollars, and banned for three years from Shea Stadium.

Still other local officials went further. Children under ten were prohibited from attending movies after 10 p.m., in an attempt to prevent disruption to peoples moviegoing experience. Parents who shouted during their childrens sporting events could be banned from them. Manners experts, apparently tired of being ignored by the public, praised these measures and elevated New York City as a shining example to other metropolises. I cannot applaud it enough, said Letitia Baldrige, the White House social secretary during John F. Kennedys administration. My hands are tired from clapping.

New Yorkers and local parents did not quite like being civilized by their local government. While proponents argued that just having these laws on the books in the first place was enough to improve behavior, the laws went largely unenforced and were soon recognized as entirely ineffective. Bloomberg and New Yorks technocrats arent the only ones who have attempted to socially engineer civility. Nor are they the only ones who failed. Across the pond, British prime minister Tony Blairs 2006 respect action plan also exemplified an unsuccessful effort to enforce civility from the top down. The campaigns goal was to prevent and combat all forms of antisocial behaviorfrom crime to bad manners. It included imposing a nighttime curfew, with a salty fine of eighty pounds sterling (over one hundred US dollars) for violators, and a national parenting academy that aimed to help parents recognize their responsibilities in civilizing their children.

The plans more controversial proposal sought to address nuisance behavior by giving authorities the remarkable unilateral power to temporarily evict people from their homes for three months. If a bureaucrat deemed a person discourteous, perhaps noisy or disruptive, or their home a property from hell, that person could be given the boot from their own hearth, even if they owned the home.

While the government assured the public that such a measure would be a last resort, the potential for abuse alarmed many. Detractors argued that Blairs respect agenda wasnt terribly respectful of English peoples basic civil rights and verged on totalitarianism that unnecessarily made criminals out of everyday citizens.



We take for granted the many freedoms we enjoy. The ability to move, leave our jobs to pursue better opportunity, worship where and how we want, and more, however, have not always been part of the human experience. We often overlook the moral underpinnings, as well as the norms of restraint and self-sacrifice, that support the freedoms we enjoy in contemporary, democratic societies.



By regulating the manifestations of our selfishness, civility supports our personal and political freedom. When too many of us fail to exercise civility, people will begin calling for the government to restrain us through laws and regulation. Civility promotes the virtue and self-government that allow us to thrive in community, uninhibited by either tyranny or fear of our fellow citizens.

Alexandra Hudson is the curator of Civic Renaissance, a newsletter and intellectual community dedicated to moral and cultural renewal. Her first book, The Soul of Civility: Timeless Princples to Heal Society and Ourselves is forthcoming from St. Martin's Press this October. Follow her on Twitter @LexiOHudson.
Its popular today to say that big business is in bed with China or the Chi-Coms. Well, yes. Businesses are generally big because theyve not just met and led the needs of individuals in the country where theyre headquartered, but also because the quality of their goods and services has been met with consumer applause overseas.

Chinas economy is large, and its growing. One certain piece of evidence that Chinas economy is growing has to do with the ubiquity of U.S. businesses over in China. To deplane in China is to see Americana all over the airport, and then its to be overwhelmed with American businesses and signage advertising same in any major Chinese city.

In which case its not surprising that American businesses are in bed with China. Theres a lot of money to be made there.

Its also not surprising that U.S. businesses want open trade with China. Its not just about getting cheap goods or inputs as confused skeptics say. Its more about the simple truth that without imports, there are fewer exports. Big businesses wants openness to Chinese goods given the obvious recognition that underlying the Chinese desire to meet the needs of the American people is a powerful desire to purchase American goods and services.

Whats apparent is that as evidenced by the aforementioned ubiquity of American businesses in China, the U.S. has been wisely open to Chinese plenty stateside. Big business once again supports this. Good. Imports dont just open markets for us overseas, they relentlessly push Americans into higher and higher forms of specialization that yield huge productivity surges. The genius of labor division doesnt stop at our borders.

All of this came to mind while reading Walter Russell Meads latest column. Mead indicated that government officials and think tankers around the world recently alerted him to the reality that war over Taiwan would be far more serious for the world economy than war in Ukraine or even a wider regional war in the Middle East. Mead needed scholarly types to tell him this? He could have saved himself a global meeting schedule by simply flying to Shanghai, cabbing it to city center, and then cabbing it back for a flight home.

A trip like the one described would have opened his eyes to the presence of the biggest of big U.S. businesses in China. War with China over Taiwan would be devastating for the U.S. economy and every American simply because it would compromise the trade that always lifts the liberal country the most, plus it would devastate Americans working for myriad U.S. companies increasingly reliant on a voracious and growing Chinese market.

Of course, by the above description it can also be said that war with the U.S. would be devastating for China. Americans are the biggest, baddest consumers on earth. War would compromise this. Its bad for business. Which is why big business aims to avoid it.

Mead and his more hawkish colleagues would be wise to listen to big business with the above in mind. The more that Americans are free to trade with China, the more expensive (and thus unlikely) war with China becomes. Good.

Added to this, China and Taiwan are very much interconnected economically. Which means war of the shooting kind between them would similarly be very costly. It calls for the U.S. to stay out. Precisely because China and Taiwan are so invested in the economic health of one another, the odds of a shooting war ahead of reunification shrink all the time. One can only hope.

Mead contends that the the most important international development on President Bidens watch has been the erosion of Americas deterrence. The view here is that Mead misses. Trade is the ultimate the war deterrent simply because trade binds countries in peaceful fashion.

Which means the most important international development on President Bidens watch has been the growing realization that Democrats are as dangerously confused about trade as the Republicans who came before them. If the goal truly is to avoid war and the catastrophe that Mead acknowledges awaits us if theres war, lets unilaterally erase all tariffs on all Chinese goods with an eye on raising the cost of war with China as much as possible. Big business would likely agree.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the time for the start of a ground operation in the Gaza Strip has already been determined. According to him, all Hamas militants are "doomed", thousands of terrorists have already been eliminated "and this is just the beginning".

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Netanyahu made the statement on October 25 in Tel Aviv, addressing the people of Israel. "All Hamas militants are doomed. I want to make it clear that the timing of the IDF operation was unanimously determined by the military cabinet together with the Chief of Staff. We are working to ensure the best possible conditions for the next operations," he said.

At the same time, Netanyahu refused to disclose the details of the ground offensive, saying that they are not known to the public and "it should remain so."

"We are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not specify when, how or how many. I will also not describe in detail a number of considerations, most of which the public does not know about. And that's the way it should be. This is the way we will protect the lives of our soldiers," the Israeli Prime Minister said.

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According to Netanyahu, the goal of the war is "to save the nation, to achieve victory." He also reiterated his call for civilians to leave for the south of the Gaza Strip.

In addition, the Israeli Prime Minister said that days of mourning would be declared in memory of the 1400 people killed in the Hamas attack. He promised that the devastated southern kibbutzim and communities would be rebuilt.

Netanyahu added that Israel has enlisted the support of world leaders, and that they now realize that "Hamas is ISIS, and ISIS is Hamas."

The war is being waged for the sake of all mankind, and the world now understands that Israel's struggle is the battle of the world, that it is a battle of light against darkness, Netanyahu said.

As reported by OBOZ.UA:

- The day before, Israeli Chief of Staff Gertzi Halevi said that the ground invasion of the Gaza Strip was postponed for "strategic reasons". According to him, the military is "using every minute" to better prepare, and Hamas is already "regretting" starting the war.

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- Before that, Jerusalem expressed its readiness to cancel the ground operation in the Gaza Strip. The conditions were set for Hamas to release all hostages and surrender.

- On October 25, the IDF announced the elimination of three Hamas leaders due to accurate intelligence.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
As the Lebanese revolution marks its 4-year anniversary this week, the people of Lebanon are reckoning with the consequences of its failures. One particular failure is currently hitting the Lebanese forcefully: falling short of addressing the deeply concerning and entrenched issue of Hezbollahs influence on the country. As a result, Hezbollah cemented its power-grab on Lebanon and is dragging it into the current Israeli-Hamas war, against the wishes of the majority of the Lebanese people.

On October 17, 2019, the Lebanese people forced their feckless government to resign following 13 days of peaceful protests. They raised their voices in unison against the ruling class, a kleptocracy that has long depleted the limited resources of their small nation and siphoned off much of the aid it received. The regime has consistently driven a wedge between Lebanons 3 major sects - Christian, Sunni, and Shiite - by having each kleptocrat present themselves as the guardian of their sect, fostering the constant threat of another impending civil war, corrupting the judicial system, and weakening the nations sovereignty leaving it vulnerable to foreign influence. The Lebanese revolution eventually lost steam due to multiple challenges; mainly a prolonged political gridlock led by the kleptocracy as it doubled down on flaring up sectarian divisions, which stood in the way of forming a government that could implement any meaningful reforms. The Lebanese people, many of whom are understandably still living with post-civil war trauma, remained largely caught up in the clutches of this vile political game. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 diverted attention and resources away from the protest movement. The Lebanese also grappled with a severe economic crisis marked by a dramatic currency devaluation, depositors losing access to their money, and defaulting on sovereign debt.

However, the largest obstacle to the success of the Lebanese revolution was that the protesters had been forced by history, circumstance, intimidation -- or some combination of these factors -- to leave out one fundamental demand: the removal of Hezbollah's arsenal of weapons. While Lebanon is under heavy influence from various regional and international powers, the most concerning influence by far has been that of Hezbollah, a Shiite militant and political organization recognized by the US, UK, Germany, the Arab League, and Israel as terrorists. It is also deemed as such by any individual who holds abhorrent the unlawful use of violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political aims; without ifs or whataboutism. This influence which has transformed into a strong-hold has deemed Lebanons sovereignty, stability, and ability to chart an independent path towards progress nearly impossible. In fact, the terrorist organization is regressing the state of the country by pushing it into direct conflict with Israel at the behest of its patron, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Hezbollah, formed in the early 1980s, originally emerged as a resistance movement against Israeli occupation in Southern Lebanon. Over the years, it has evolved into a complex entity with both a military and political wing, making it a significant player in Lebanons political landscape. One of the most alarming aspects of Hezbollahs influence is its growing presence in Lebanons political institutions. The organization has gained substantial representation in the Lebanese parliament paved by corrupt alliances with the kleptocracy, and it has effectively secured veto power over critical decisions. This political power has allowed Hezbollah to further its agenda and create a state within a state.

Hezbollah maintains a formidable military force that operates independently of the Lebanese Armed Forces, which naturally has weakened the latter. Its militia has been involved in regional conflicts, most notably in Syria, taking the side of the Assad regime, where it has actively engaged in combat against various rebel groups and opposition forces there. Hezbollahs involvement was directed by the IRGC to fulfill Irans desire to maintain the Assad regime as a key ally in the region. Hezbollah is now fulfilling a similar duty to the IRGC through direct engagement in the Israeli-Hamas war. The Wall Street Journal reported that Iran helped plot Hamass attack on Israel and that the meeting during which the IRGC gave the final go-ahead to Hamas took place in Beirut. Reports from Lebanon point to Hezbollahs role in providing Hamas with the capacity to build its own drone and missile technology in addition to funding. Since Hamas' shocking attack on Israel, Hezbollah and Israel have been trading rockets almost daily. On Monday, the Israeli military said it would evacuate 28 communities near Lebanon, affecting about 10,000 people. At least 3 Lebanese civilians have died over the past week, including the Reuters journalist, Issam Abdullah. One Israeli civilian has been killed. A number of Hezbollah and Hamas militants also have been killed. Furthermore, Hezbollah is allowing Palestinian factions to do its bidding. On Thursday, Al-Qassam Brigades fired 30 rockets from southern Lebanon towards the settlements of the Western Galilee. Meanwhile, Iran continues to message that Lebanon could be a whole new front for the Israel-Hamas war; undeterred by the Ford Carrier dispatched by the US to the region.

This would not be the first time Lebanon gets dragged into conflict with Israel through the sole discretion of Hezbollah and its so-called Axis of Resistance. Since the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation from Lebanon in 2000, there have been several skirmishes at and around the Israeli-Lebanese border. In 2006, a wider war broke out between Hezbollah and Israel. It was sparked by a cross-border Hezbollah raid into Israel on July 12, 2006; backed by Iran and Syria. The excuse was to secure the release of Lebanese prisoners held in Israeli jails while the real objective seemed to be for Hezbollah to increasingly portray itself as a defender of Lebanese sovereignty against Israeli aggression thereby continuing to justify the existence of its weapons arsenal. During the raid, Hezbollah captured two Israeli soldiers and killed several others. Israel responded with air and artillery strikes in Lebanon. The conflict resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with estimates of over 1,000 Lebanese civilians and Hezbollah terrorists killed, as well as dozens of Israeli soldiers and civilians. Lebanon faced widespread destruction, particularly in the southern areas, and a horrifying displacement of civilians. The war exacerbated political tensions within Lebanon and has had a lasting impact on the country's political landscape.

However, this might very well be Lebanons last war with Israel, if it happens, before Lebanons existence is reduced to a state barely resembling that of a country - much like Iraq or Yemen. Both countries saw the same ultimate fate of decimation as they transformed into Iranian proxies. In 2006, Lebanons socio-economic situation was still relatively strong and its people had not yet undergone the trauma resulting from a failed revolution, economic collapse, COVID-19 epidemic, and the Beirut blast. Lebanon will surely not be able to bear the devastation that will result from becoming a second front in the Israeli-Hamas war.

4 years ago, the Lebanese missed the opportunity to make a firm insistence that Lebanon is a land fit only for one army and demand the disarming of Hezbollah's "state within a state." Much like a cancer left untreated, Hezbollah continues to metastasize. It is a crucial time for the Lebanese to take agency and uphold their responsibility to counter Hezbollahs influence in order to get the country out of its self-destructive burden. The How, much like any cancer treatment, will require sacrifices and pain. Despite Hezbollahs flex of power internally this week through thuggish attacks on the American Embassy, the American University of Beirut, and local businesses, the Lebanese need to stand up to this intimidation and take to the streets in peaceful protests against Hezbollah and the enabling kleptocracy. They must reject the fanatics in their midst. Most importantly, they also need to revive their hope for peace. They should take heart by looking to the massive strides that their Arab brethren have taken concluding in the Abraham Accords and they must form their regional and international alliances accordingly. As Sir Arthur Conan Doyle says in The Case Book of Sherlock Holmes, We have all neglected opportunities to deplore. For Lebanons sake, may this not be another one.

Dalia Tarabay is a Lebanese activist and resident of New York City. She is the Head of Strategy & Operations for Search at Google (her views do not represent Googles in any capacity) and was previously a Public Sector Consultant at Booz & Company Middle East. X (formerly Twitter) handle: @DaliaTarabay
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Federal got a big contract with the DHS and Customs and Border Protection, 5 years, Strategically Sourced, a maximum quantity of 143 million rounds of Tactical Bonded 64-grain soft point 5.56 ammo.

We are proud to provide the highest quality duty ammunition to CBP officers charged with the monumental task of border security, said Federal Ammunition President and CEO Jason Vanderbrink. We know they require the best ammunition in their mission to protect our borders and keep the homeland safe. This large duty contract win solidifies Federal Ammunition as a top choice for law enforcement.

The cartridge selected was the Tactical Bonded 64-grain soft point. This single-award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract is a Strategically Sourced contract for all DHS components with a maximum quantity of 143 million rounds. The ordering period is for a total of five years.

Federals Tactical Bonded line is a trusted partner for some of the most intense conditions, said VP of Law Enforcement Sales Dave Leis. Made exclusively for law enforcement and at our Anoka, MN headquarters, it achieves accuracy and terminal performance that defeats tough barriers with minimal change to its superior performance attributes.
Shocked and fearful Maine residents are keeping to their homes for a second night as hundreds of police and FBI agents search intently for Robert Card, a U.S. Army reservist authorities say fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and a bar
Sheats Social Services Reading Rainbow Collective Literacy Program hosted the screening of the documentary, The Right to Read, at the Athens-Clarke County Library on Thursday evening. The documentary focuses on the stories of an NAACP activist, two families and a teacher who understand the value of children learning how to read.
Republican Mike Johnson, who became speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives on October 25, allegedly said he was ready to discuss providing financial assistance to Ukraine to fight the Russian invasion. He had previously opposed the allocation of money to Kyiv.

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This was reported by Bloomberg. The journalists noted that during his election as Speaker of the House of Representatives, Johnson said he was open to negotiations on the request of US President Joe Biden.

The US president's request to Congress concerns assistance to both Ukraine and Israel.

"Although Johnson had previously been skeptical about helping Ukraine, he said he was open to negotiating Biden's request for more funding to help with the country's counteroffensive against Russia," the journalists say.

It should be reminded that Mike Johnson's candidacy was supported by all the Republicans present during the voting on October 25. As a result, he received 220 votes. Representatives of the Democratic Party unanimously voted for Hakeem Jeffries, who received 209 votes.

Republican Johnson is a supporter of former US President Donald Trump. Last May, he voted against a $40 billion package for Ukraine.

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On October 20, Biden requested $106 billion from Congress to help Ukraine and Israel. Of this amount, $61.3 billion should be used to help the Ukrainian Defense Forces fight Russia's invasion.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, the Biden administration said that Israel and Ukraine equally need help from Washington. Ukraine - to protect itself from the invasion of the aggressor country Russia, Israel - to fight Hamas terrorists.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The College Republicans of the University of Georgia met Wednesday to discuss the first Republican Presidential Primary Debate which took place on Aug. 23. As a critical demographic in a swing state ahead of the 2024 presidential election, attendees considered the range of candidates and their stances carefully.
In a move to strengthen governance in private sector banks and wholly-owned subsidiaries of foreign banks, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Wednesday directed them to have at least two wholetime directors.

Lenders that do not meet the requirement will have to submit the names for the RBIs approval within four months.

Banks need prior approval from the banking regulator for the appointment of wholetime directors.

Some of the private sector lenders that do not have two wholetime directors are IndusInd Bank, TamilNad Mercantile Bank, CSB Bank, DCB Bank, Dhanlaxmi Bank, City Union Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, and South Indian Bank.

Among the wholly-owned subsidiaries of foreign banks, only SBM Bank has one wholetime director.

These banks have only their managing director and chief executive officer (MD & CEO) as wholetime director.

CEOs of TamilNad Mercantile Bank, Karur Vysya Bank, and SBM Bank have resigned, and the banks are in the process of appointing the new ones.

While payments banks and local area banks have been kept outside the purview of the RBI circular, the norm will be applicable to small finance banks.

There are a few small finance banks that do not comply with the latest norm.

The regulator has also asked banks to establish effective senior management teams to navigate ongoing and emerging challenges, given the growing complexities of the banking sector.

Establishment of such a team may also facilitate succession planning, especially in the background of the regulatory stipulations in respect of tenure and upper age limit for MD & CEO positions, the RBI said in its notification.

A CEO of a private sector bank told Business Standard on condition of anonymity: Since this is an RBI mandate, we need to follow. We will immediately start working on shortlisting the names.

The RBI said the number of wholetime directors should be decided by the board of the bank after taking into account factors such as the size of operations, business complexity, and other relevant aspects.

In compliance to these instructions, banks that currently do not meet the minimum requirement as above are advised to submit their proposals for the appointment of WTD(s) under Section 35B(1)(b) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949, within a period of four months from the date of issuance of this circular, the RBI said.

Banks that do not already have the enabling provisions regarding the appointment of wholetime directors in their Articles of Association may first seek necessary approvals under Section 35B(1)(a) of the Act expeditiously, so as to be in a position to comply with the requirements under these instructions, the notification said.

In an interaction with the board members of public and private sector banks in July this year, RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das had emphasised the need for MD & CEOs to pay special attention to strengthening the governance and focus on the tripod of banking stability, consisting of compliance, risk management and audit functions.
Debates on changing the name of India to Bharat continue to spark a crisis of identity without answering moot questions that stare us in the face.

Ramesh Menon asks a few of those questions that do not have easy answers.

IMAGE: India Gate is enveloped in a layer of smog as the overall air quality in the national capital recorded in the 'Moderate' category with the Air Quality Index (AQI) at 190, October 25, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

As parliamentary elections inch closer, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party spins up numerous controversies and ideas.

One of them is the renaming of India to Bharat. Ostensibly, it is to get rid of the country's colonial past.

But the fact is that India was India even before the British colonised it.

The Opposition is wondering if Prime Minister Narendra Damodardas Modi is trying to take the wind out of their sails as over two dozen political parties have come under one umbrella called the INDIA (Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance).

A simple slogan like 'Vote for India', can have a tremendous emotional pull for the voter.

On the other hand, the BJP may try to use the all-pervasive emotional appeal of nationalism linked to Bharat, underlining that its cultural roots are deep in there and that we are a proud country.

Saying that it removes the relics of the past and we will be proud when it is renamed as Bharat does not jell as even in the 4th and 5th Century, it was called India.

Check out how many Indians gave up their Indian passport in the last ten years? How many are in the queue to migrate out of India? How many have chosen to give up their Indian citizenship and why?

Let us accept it. We have a foreign hangover.

Ultimately, the renaming may take some time as it is almost impossible to pull it off before the next national election.

Apart from the projected Rs 14,000 crore (Rs 140 billion) plus required to make it happen, it will be a logistical nightmare for India and the rest of the world.

The name India is everywhere, from passports to organisations like the Indian Army, Indian Space Research Organisation, Indian Railways, Reserve Bank of India, Election Commission of India, Indian Institute of Management, Indian Institute of Technology and thousands of others.

These names have resounded worldwide, and wiping it off is going to take a lot of work. India has a brand value today, and frittering it away is foolhardy.

World leaders attending the G20 meeting in India recently might have wondered how Modi changed nameplates and invitation cards with the name Bharat instead of India without even consulting anyone or opening a discussion in what Modi calls in personalised ads the 'Mother of Democracy'.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra D Modi at the G20 Summit, September 9, 2023, with the Bharat name plate. Photograph: ANI Photo

In 2016, when a Public Interest Litigation was filed in the Supreme Court asking that India's name be changed to Bharat, the Centre virulently opposed it, telling the court that there had been no change in circumstances to consider changing the country's name by amending the Constitution.

Now, there has been a change of heart. The reasons are apparent and are blowing in the wind.

If India is to be renamed, a Constitutional amendment will have to be passed.

This would call for a two-thirds majority in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, apart from a ratification by half of the states in the country.

Is this the greatest priority now? Are there burning issues that the government needs to tackle? For an ordinary Indian on the street, this is a non-issue as there are so many other problems he has to tackle to wade through in troubled times.

This is not the first time this demand has erupted. Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav, in 2004, wanted an amendment in the Constitution to change the phrase 'India that is Bharat' with 'Bharat that is India'.

Shantaram Naik, then a Congress MP from Goa, had moved a bill in the Rajya Sabha in 2012 pleading for India to be renamed Bharat.

We have a penchant for changing names.

We changed the names of Bombay, Madras, Bangalore, Calcutta, Poona, Trivandrum, Allahabad and so on. How did that change the fate of these cities? Did it get better?

How will the renaming of India into Bharat change our lives?

Will Bharat change the colonial past that it is claiming to do?

Will we give up all the relics of the colonial past, like addressing a judge as 'Your Honour' or 'Your Lordship'? Or will we stop saying things like 'Honourable Minister'?

Will it erase the outdated education system that Thomas Babington Macaulay designed in 1865 to create an army of clerks to run the British administration and create one that is realistic to implement?

Will it improve Bharat's development indices of poverty, gender justice, malnutrition, female foeticide, illiteracy, corruption, et al?

Will it change antiquated laws that have come from the British to mirror modern changes and attitudes?

Will the bureaucracy change now that we have become Bharat as it is deeply entrenched in colonial attitudes where they are the elite?

Will the defence forces change their norms too to reflect the changed resolve to junk colonial attitudes?

Will it infuse a new enthusiasm to make democracy flourish, enriching its strengths or further make us passive, be under some spell, and selectively pick up data and information that suits us?

Will the new Bharat douse the flames of hatred being fanned and encouraged all over and make us embrace inclusiveness and tolerance to strengthen the country.

Will it make us more rational and less prejudiced?

Will the new Bharat stop youngsters thronging foreign embassies for visas to go abroad and never return?

Will it bring in a qualitative change in governance that is fair and not vindictive against those opposed to the party in power?

Will it say no to populism that is bleeding budgets of state after state where politicians use tax money to give away gifts to voters and win elections?

Will Bharat make politicians and policymakers think differently and concentrate on good governance that will dynamically change the lives of the people they touch with their schemes and plans?

Will the new Bharat revitalise democratic institutions to once again build theIdea of India or become a doormat for politicians to stand on?

Will the name change make the media realise that it has to once again emerge as the fourth pillar of democracy, ask uncomfortable questions and hold a mirror to society? Or will it just continue to slide into further irrelevancy and mediocrity?

Will Bharat energise the diversity and cultural richness of India why being inclusive and respecting various communities and religions?

If India wants to highlight its cultural heritage by calling itself Bharat, will it also infuse in policies to usher in its erstwhile rich civilisational values which are so different from the ones that present political dispensation wants?

How will the country deal with the kind of confusion it will immediately rustle up in documents related to international treaties, trade agreements and diplomatic relations?

IMAGE: Army personnel and citizens take part in a Tiranga walkathon in Mumbai, August 14, 2023, on the eve of Independence Day. Photograph: ANI Photo

Clearly, Bharat is not one of the issues that is on the top of every Indian as there are just too many question marks that are worrying and haunting.

Our lawmakers need to understand that and not think that playing to the gallery and whipping up emotions is the way forward in a country at the crossroads of great opportunities that need to be harvested.

Ramesh Menon, award-winning journalist, educator, documentary film-maker and corporate trainer, is the author of Modi Demystified: The Making Of A Prime Minister.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
'It is violation of the Model Code of Conduct.'

'It is a penal offence under the IPC to exert undue influence on voters.'

'Under the election law, it is a corrupt practice.'

IMAGE: Bharatiya Janata Party leader Narendra D Modi at the BJP's central election committee meeting on the Rajasthan elections, October 20, 2023. Photograph: Ayush Sharma/ANI Photo

The subject of a circular dated the 18th of October by the ministry of finance was, 'Nomination of officers of the rank of joint secretaries/director/deputy secretary pertaining to various levels for deployment as district rath prabharis (special officers) at each 765 districts covering 2.69 lakh Gram Panchayats in the country'.

It went on to say that the duty was to 'showcase/celebrate the achievements of the last nine years of the government through a Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra from November 20, 2023 and January 25, 2024'.

Congress Spokesperson Pawan Khera posted the circular on social media and asked, How can civil servants be ordered to conduct political propaganda for a government going into elections?

Retired senior bureaucrats like E A S Sarma and M G Devasahayam wrote to the Election Commission expressing their concern on using IAS officers and other civil servants as 'rath prabharis'.

Dr E A S Sarma, an 1965 batch IAS officer, served in the Union finance and power ministries before he opted for voluntary retirement from the IAS in 2000 after differences with the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

"Civil services conduct rules do not allow civil servants to participate in political activities. And forcing civil servants to violate the conduct rules is also an offence," Dr Sarma tells Rediff.com's Shobha Warrier.

After resigning from service, you have been writing many letters on issues that concerned you or bothered you to various authorities.

You wrote many letters to Dr Manmohan Singh when he was prime minister, and also to Narendra Modi.

Have the issues changed? And the response too?

I write letters not necessarily for a response from somebody. I want it to be in the public domain, and I want it to start a discussion among the people.

I find that generally, 30% to 40% of such letters generate discussion among the public.

Sometimes I get response from those to whom I write letters to. For example, Dr Manmohan Singh himself responded once to me when I asked him to declare his assets. He was the prime minister at that time. He telephoned me directly and said, I have declared my assets.

I told him I don't question your integrity. What about your Cabinet colleagues?

He said, I have asked all of them to disclose.

I told him that I could then ask all other state senior politicians to also disclose their assets.

When Shri Somnath Chatterjee was Speaker of the Lok Sabha, I wrote a letter asking for a law to be processed for enactment to regulate parliamentary proceedings where the Speaker would have the authority.

When he did not reply, I wrote again saying that I would release the letter saying Somnath Chatterjee did not consider himself accountable to the public.

Then he replied, saying he was very sorry as he did not see the letter. He asked me to go to Delhi and meet him so that we could talk over a cup of tea. So, the next time when I went to Delhi, I contacted him and met him at his residence. We had a very good chat over a cup of tea.

After that, he held three rounds of discussions with a large group of academics, social activists, politicians on the subject I had raised and other Parliamentary reforms.

So, I would say I had some response here and there to my letters.

Like I said in the beginning, the purpose is not to get a response from Shri Modi or any other politician. It is to start a public discussion.

The latest letter you have written is to the Election Commission about using administrative officers as rath prabharis to showcase the government's achievements in the last nine years.

They (Election Commission) say they have registered the complaint and looking into it.

I am happy that there has been a wider public discussion on it, and people are questioning the very idea.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Modi at the laying of the foundation stone of various developmental projects in Nizamabad, Telangana, October 3, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

What worried you the most? The blatant use of public servants for government propaganda, or violation of the Model Code of Conduct as the dates for the assembly elections have been announced?

Both. The first thing is, the government just can't use public servants for such a publicity campaign. limited to nine years of NDA rule alone. Civil servants don't do this kind of work. Why showcase only nine years of achievements? Why not 10 or 15 years?

Second is the Model Code of Conduct. With the time frame given for the campaign as November 20, 2023 and January 25, 2024, it includes not just the coming assembly elections but the Parliament elections in 2024 too.

So, the government are not only misusing public funds, but public resources too.

To the best of my knowledge, no other government ever stooped so low.

IMAGE: Dr E A S Sarma. Photograph: Kind courtesy Dr EAS Sarma IMAGE: Dr E A S Sarma.

You said, this is unethical and illegal...

Ethics is very important.

But more than ethics, it is violation of the Model Code of Conduct. It is a penal offence under the IPC (Indian Penal Code) to exert undue influence on voters. Under the election law, it is a corrupt practice.

Another interesting thing is, the civil services conduct rules do not allow civil servants to participate in political activities. And forcing civil servants to violate the conduct rules is also an offence.

So, in several ways, it is illegal.

Coming to ethics, we have these people elected through democratic means. And they defeat those democratic values when they come to power. They take advantage of the Constitution by getting elected through democratic means and then make a mockery of the Constitution. That's where ethics enter the picture.

That's why I feel this is both unethical and illegal.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff.com
'The purported claim that Israel can defeat Hamas and everything 'would go back to normal' is completely absurd.'

IMAGE: An Israeli tank and military vehicles are seen near Israel's border with the Gaza Strip in southern Israel, October 22, 2023. Photograph: Violeta Santos Moura/Reuters

"Israel's security paradigm has been challenged to the core. The idea that Israel can just go on with building settlements, keep a brutal siege on Gaza and continue stealing land in the occupied territories has been fundamentally challenged," asserts Dr Bashir Saade, lecturer in Religion and Politics at the University of Stirling, UK.

Dr Saade has previously held posts at the University of Edinburgh and at the American University of Beirut. He has a PhD in War Studies at King's College and an MSc in International Politics from the London School of Economics.

He is also the author of the book Hizbullah and the Politics of Remembrance.

"The idea of a two State solution will only continue breeding divisions," Dr Saade tells Rediff.com's Archana Masih in an e-mail interview.

What do you think is likely to happen in Gaza after the war and devastation? What do you see as the future of the people of Palestine?

This is a very difficult question. We have reached a point of no return, but we also have no idea where compromise can be reached.

The divide is so great that only bold moves can save the situation.

One thing is sure Israel needs to re-assess its colonial policies and that's something very tough to see materialise without international and regional pressure.

What role can Saudi Arabia in bringing about some sort of settlement between Israel and Palestine?

Saudi Arabia can definitely play a role in pushing Israel to halt its settler policy in exchange of brokering a deal with Palestinian political forces, but this will only happens in a larger context including Iran.

IMAGE: Palestinians, who fled their homes, gather to get their share of charity food offered by volunteers, amid food shortages, at a UN-run school where they took refuge, in Rafah, October 23, 2023. Photograph: Mahmoud al-Masri/Reuters

Can there ever be a possibility of Palestine and Israel co-existing side by side or are Israel-Palestine relations beyond reconciliation?

In my opinion, the only possibility for reconciliation is for Israel and Palestine to become one pluralist State, as it happened in South Africa.

The idea of a two State solution will only continue breeding divisions.

The idea of a 'Jewish' State will always involve some kind of second class citizenship for those who are not Jewish, a desire to encroach on neighbouring land and perceive the immediate environment as hostile.

What is the future of the Palestinian Authority? Can it be revived and does it have the ability to become the voice of the Palestinian people?

Very few people in Palestine consider the Palestinian Authority as the legitimate power. Most people are with 'The Resistance' whether it involves Hamas or other groups that are willing to stand in the way of Israeli policies.

The only way a Palestinian Authority can emerge as legitimate is if it endorses a stronger stand towards Israel in the hope of reaching a more just/equitable situation (return of lands, refugees, etc).

IMAGE: Members of Hizbollah carry the coffin of Abbas Shuman, who was killed in southern Lebanon amidst tension between Israel and Hizbollah, during his funeral, in Baalbek, Lebanon, October 23, 2023. Photograph: Amr Alfiky/Reuters

If Hizbullah opens a front on Israel's the northern border and confrontations with the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza escalate, would that pose severe military challenges for Israel, the likes it has not seen before?

Yes, it is possible it would do so. It is also one reason why the skirmishes around the Lebanese border have been very restrained.

I think in the case of this battle, Israel won't be able to redo what it tried in the summer of 2006 where it bombed most of Lebanon's infrastructure, but without really being able to inflict any damage to Hizbullah as an organisation and military infrastructure.

In a sense it does pose a challenge to Israel which is one of the reasons it hasn't escalated yet and why Israel has been seeking (in vain) US backing for this.

Can Israel overcome these challenges or will it pose a dire threat to the Jewish homeland?

After the events of October 7, there is definitely no turning back to the situation that existed before.

Israel's security paradigm has been challenged to the core. The idea that Israel can just go on with building settlements, keep a brutal siege on Gaza and continue stealing land in the occupied territories has been fundamentally challenged.

It also means that Jews or those thinking to emigrate to settlements will now think twice before doing so. In that sense, expansive Zionist ideology is being challenged.

IMAGE: Palestinians gather to search for casualties at the site of an Israeli strike on a house in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, October 24, 2023. Photograph: Mohammed Salem/Reuters

Why, in your opinion, has Israel not undertaken its ground invasion, which was expected in the week after the Hamas attack?

Was it delayed by the US advising restraint so that humanitarian challenges of Gaza could be addressed first?

It is possible and it is very difficult to figure out what is going on in the corridors of decision-making processes. But from what is being leaked, it looks also like Israel is dreading a ground invasion, first because they haven't fought any war 'on the ground' since 1973, they tried in 2006 and failed dramatically.

Secondly, because there's a growing dissatisfaction among the military with the current ruling government and the war cabinet formed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But to be very honest, I don't think either the US or Israel bother much with humanitarian questions so I don't think this enters the equation.

Or was the invasion also held back by inadequate information about the hostages? Will this delay and complicate what Israel hopes to achieve militarily in Gaza?

Since the start of the hostilities Israel hasn't shown it has much regard to the hostage question. We know now that they have already killed some through crossfire and in bombing Gaza, and the recent release of the two elderly hostages took place DESPITE the fact that Israel refused at first to accept the release of these hostages.

The Israel Defence Forces have long prepared for urban warfare. In your estimation what military challenges does a ground invasion in Gaza, with its miles of underground tunnels, pose for the IDF?

I'm not sure to what extent Israel is prepared for urban warfare. The IDF is expert in fighting and policing low scale threats, sporadic popular unrest or loose militant elements, but not in confronting a fully-fledged mobilised guerrilla movement such as al Qassam's Brigade that have miles of tunnels prepared and of which Israel has very little concrete information.

IMAGE: Palestinians, who fled their houses take shelter in a tent camp at a United Nations-run centre in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. Photograph: Ibraheem Abu Mustafa/Reuters

What are your thoughts on the world's response to the Israel-Hamas war?

I think the world rushed to condemn Hamas and to legitimate any of Israeli actions against it, thereby opening the door to an explosion of destruction and mass murder.

I think this was horribly irresponsible. To be clear, no one glorifies killing people. And the events of the 7th of October were a human tragedy. But not understanding where they came from is basically playing ostrich politics. And what Israel did in response to it is unnecessarily deadly and amount to multiple war crimes and violation of human rights with no concrete results.

In reality, so far Israel killed around a dozen of Hamas officials, among more than 5,000 people killed (of which more than 2,000 are children). Imagine for one second how effective their military campaign is.

The Western world is worried about Israel's right to defend itself when it should be worried about why did we come to this kind of violence being unleashed. Not addressing the structural problem of Israeli or Zionist colonialism will always reach the same result.

Hamas will come back, through one form or another, or other groups will emerge. No people will accept being repressed like this.

Hamas, and any militant group of this kind, and the Palestinian people who support this cause, are not after 'killing Jews' (Unlike what most Western leaders said) but want the occupation to stop, they want the brutal siege of Gaza to stop, for settlements to stop expanding on more and more land being stolen.

IMAGE: People mourn during the funeral of Dana and Karmel Bachar at Kvutzat Shiller, Israel, October 24, 2023. Photograph: Shir Torem/Reuters

Can Hamas be defeated and finished?

Very few people in Palestine consider the Palestinian Authority as the legitimate power. Most people are with 'The Resistance' whether it involves Hamas or other groups that are willing to stand in the way of Israeli policies.

One can be critical of their methods, but it is hard to see how it can be defeated. The purported claim that Israel can defeat Hamas and everything 'would go back to normal' is completely absurd. Again, the same was true with Hizbullah in Lebanon, in 2006.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
United States President Joe Biden has said that he is convinced that one of the reasons why Hamas launched a terrorist attack on Israel was because of the recent announcement during the G-20 Summit in New Delhi on the ambitious India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region with a network of railroad.

IMAGE: People mourn during the funeral of two victims of the deadly attack by Hamas gunmen in Kibbutz Beeri, Israel on October 24, 2023. Photograph: Shir Torem/Reuters

Israel has launched a massive counter-offensive against Hamas after unprecedented attacks by the militant group on October 7 killed more than 1,400 people.

Biden told reporters at a joint news conference with the visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that his analysis is based on his instinct and does not have any proof for this.

"I'm convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We can't leave that work behind," Biden said.

This is the second time in less than a week that Biden has mentioned the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC) as a potential reason for the terrorist attack by Hamas.

The new economic corridor, which many see as an alternative to China's Belt and Road Initiative, was jointly announced by the leaders of the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union on the sidelines of the G20 summit in September.

The corridor comprises an eastern corridor connecting India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor connecting the Gulf region to Europe.

Biden said in the past few weeks, he has spoken to leaders throughout the region, including King Abdullah of Jordan, President Sisi of Egypt, President Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, and Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia about making sure there's real hope in the region for a better future about the need to work toward a greater integration for Israel while insisting that the aspirations of the Palestinian people will be part, will be part of that future as well.
A banner describing senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi as the '2024 prime minister' has appeared outside the party office in Lucknow, days after the Samajwadi Party office put up a similar poster calling its party chief Akhilesh Yadav the country's 'future prime minister'.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi with Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav during the joint Opposition meeting, in Bengaluru on July 18, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The Congress hoarding also described its state president Ajay Rai as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh in 2027.

Responding to the poster, Samajwadi Party (SP) state spokesperson Fakhrul Hasan 'Chand' who had put up Yadav's poster said it was their party which was fighting the battle of backwards, Dalits and minorities, so it did not matter how many posters the Congress put up as people wanted Yadav as the prime minister.

The large banner describing the SP supremo as the 'future prime minister' put up on Monday by a party worker generated a buzz in political circles.

The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party described it as 'Mungeri Lal ke haseen sapne (a pipedream)' of Yadav's associates and an attempt to put pressure on other members of the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA).

The Congress hoarding put up by party worker Nitant Singh Nitin carries the pictures of Rahul Gandhi and Ajay Rai with the slogan '2024 mein Rahul, 2027 mein Rai, desh-pradesh bol raha hai, haath ke saath aayen' (Rahul in 2024, (Ajay) Rai in 2027, both country and state are asking you to come in support of the hand (Congress symbol)).

Nitin, when asked about the banner, told PTI, "This is the feeling of the party's workers. Also, the common people want to come along with the Congress in the coming days."

"There will be a direct contest between Congress and BJP in the coming days and Rahul will be the prime minister and Ajay Rai will become chief minister of the state. There is growing confidence among the people towards our party," Nitin said.

Senior Congress leader Dwijendra Tripathi said the hoarding has been put up by a party worker and is an expression of what he and other workers feel.

"This is often seen in politics, it is an expression of party workers' feelings," Tripathi said.

Reacting sharply, SP state spokesperson Hasan said, "Both the Congress and the BJP are the same and the Samajwadis have been saying this for long. Any party can put up posters as per their sentiment."

"It is the SP which is fighting the battle of backwards, Dalits and minorities. No matter how many posters Congress puts up, the public wants Akhilesh Yadav to be the PM. When an SP chief becomes a PM, an SP leader will become the chief minister of UP. The vote share of Congress in UP is less than that of many regional parties," Hasan said.

The poster put up by Hasan read, 'Hearty congratulations and best wishes on his birthday to the future Prime Minister of the country, respected Akhilesh Yadav ji', though Yadav's official date of birth is July 1.

During the last few days, Yadav has publicly expressed his unhappiness with the Congress over the failure to arrive at a seat-sharing arrangement in Madhya Pradesh and had also referred to Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee chief Ajay Rai as a 'chirkut' (low-level) leader.
Seizures in poll-bound states see sharp rise since implementation of Model Code of Conduct.

IMAGE: Election Commission officials inspect a helicopter used by Karnataka Congress president D K Shivakumar, April 23, 2023, during the state assembly election campaign. Photograph: ANI Photo

Seizures during the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct have witnessed a sharp increase in the poll-bound states, which the Election Commission has attributed to the sustained efforts it has made for election expenditure monitoring, including 'keeping strict vigil, extensive monitoring, coordination with neighbouring states and inter-agency coordination'.

For example, during the Karnataka assembly polls earlier this year, the seizures of jewellery, liquor and other inducements increased 4.5 times compared to the 2018 assembly election, according to an Election Commission analysis.

Enforcement agencies seized Rs 375.61 crore (Rs 3.7561 billion) worth of goods, including Rs 96.6 crore (Rs 966 million) worth of jewellery and precious metals and Rs 147.46 crore (Rs 1.4746 billion) worth of cash between March 29 and May 8, 2023. In 2018, enforcement agencies seized goods worth Rs 83.93 crore (Rs 839.3 million).

The trend has continued, with the seizures spiking significantly in poll-bound Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana and Chhattisgarh after the Model Code of Conduct kicked in on October 9.

Rajasthan

Rs 244 crore (Rs 2.44 billion): Worth of goods seized by enforcement agencies until October 22.

Rs 39.30 crore (Rs 393 million): Cash.

Rs 20.12 crore (Rs 201.2 million): Illicit liquor.

Rs 46.76 crore (Rs 467.6 million): Drugs and psychotropic substances.

Rs 30.40 crore (Rs 304 million): Gold, silver and other precious metals.

Rs 84.22 crore (Rs 842.2 million): Freebies and other items.

Rs 68.31 crore (Rs 683.1 million): Seizures in 2018 during complete period.

Madhya Pradesh

Rs 133.88 crore (Rs 1.3388 billion): Goods seized until October 22.

Rs 23.93 crore (Rs 239.3 million) Liquor.

Rs 14.77 crore (Rs 147.7 million): Cash.

Rs 9.30 crore (Rs 93 million): Psychotropic substances.

Rs 51.77 crore (Rs 517.7 million): Jewellery and precious metals.

Rs 73 crore (Rs 730 million): Seizures in 2018 during complete period.

Telangana

Rs 243 crore (Rs 2.43 billion): Total seizures in Telangana until October 19.

Rs 87.92 crore (Rs 879.2 million): Cash.

Rs 120 crore (Rs 1.2 billion): Precious metals.

Rs 10.21 crore (Rs 102.1 million): Liquor.

Rs 111 crore (Rs 1.11 billion): Seizures in 2018 during complete period.

Chhattisgarh

Rs 5.5 crore (Rs 55 million): Seizures in the first 10 days.

Rs 1.7 crore (Rs 17 million): Jewellery.

Rs 11.85 crore (Rs 118.5 million): Seizures in 2018 during complete period.

Mizoram

Rs 36 crore (Rs 360 million): Seizures of drugs, cigarettes and liquor.
The Election Commission on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra over her "envelop" remarks related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's temple visit.

IMAGE: Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra addresses a public meeting, in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, October 26, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The poll panel asked her to respond to the notice by October 30 evening.

The EC action came a day after the BJP filed a complaint against her.

The Bharatiya Janata Party accused Priyanka Gandhi of "invoking the personal religious devotion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi" to make false claims during her poll campaign in Rajasthan and urged the Election Commission to take action against her.

Priyanka Gandhi, the BJP noted in its submission, told a public meeting in Dausa on October 20 that she saw it on TV that when an envelop of donation made by Modi at a temple was opened, it carried only Rs 21.

She adds that she saw the news and is not aware if the claim is true or not, the BJP's complaint read.

She then went on to launch a political attack on the BJP saying that "envelops" are shown to public by the party but nothing is found in them after the elections. The BJP included a video of her remarks in its complaint.
The next government in these states may find it tough to push economic growth through long-term reforms, which would be necessary.

IMAGE: Limca Book Of Records holder Dharmendra Agarwal spreads awareness to vote ahead of the Rajasthan assembly elections in Bikaner, October 18, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Growth took a hit in the five election-bound states mirroring the trend at the national level after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram, Rajasthan, and Telangana grew between 4 and 6 per cent in the years after 2018-2019, compared to a 5 to 10 per cent growth rate prior to 2018-2019.

India's growth rate fell from 7.4 to 3.4 per cent in the same period (chart 1).

Some of the states going to the polls have struggled with higher poverty levels than the rest of the country.

Over 15 per cent of the population lives in poverty in the majority of the states, despite improvements since 2015-2016, according to data from the NITI Aayog's multidimensional poverty calculations, which measure deprivation based on factors such as health, education, and standard of living -- going beyond traditional poverty estimation, which relied mainly on income (chart 2).

The government's labour survey shows fewer people hold regular or salaried jobs in most of these states than was the case in 2018-2019, a measure of the employment problem.

The share of salaried workers among those employed has reduced after the pandemic in all states except Madhya Pradesh.

The lack of sufficient avenues for gainful work is also reflected in the fact that manufacturing accounts for less than a third of the economy even in the most industrialised of these states.

In some states like Rajasthan, agriculture drives 60 per cent of the economy (charts 3, 4).

Demands for guaranteed pensions have been encouraged despite adverse fiscal implications.

A tenth of revenue receipts for many governments already goes towards pensions (chart 5).

The ability of these states to spend on development is getting increasingly limited by the growth in their committed expenditures -- which include pensions, salaries, and interest payments.

The next government in these states may find it tough to push economic growth through long-term reforms, which would be necessary.

Committed expenditure takes away the majority of revenue receipts in both Rajasthan and Mizoram.

Other states also have a significant share of revenue receipts tied up in committed expenditure (chart 6).

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
A few weeks before Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, hundreds of militants from Palestinian terrorist groups underwent special combat training in Iran. The military exercises were led by officers of the Quds Force of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

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The Wall Street Journal writes about this, citing sources familiar with the intelligence data. According to their information, about 500 Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants took part in military exercises in Iran.

The exercises took place in September and were conducted by officers of the Quds Force, the foreign operations unit of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The head of the Quds Force, General Ismail Qaani, was present at the exercise.

"The Quds Force is one of the five branches of the IRGC that specializes in unconventional warfare and military intelligence operations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps constantly supports and participates in terrorist activities around the world.

Early in the morning of October 7, Hamas militants launched a large-scale attack on Israel: thousands of rockets flew into the country, and groups of terrorists broke through the border and began killing and abducting civilians.

ADVERTISIMENT

In particular, Hamas militants massacred festival participants on the border with Gaza: more than 250 bodies were found at the venue, and some civilians were captured and taken to Gaza. Dozens, and sometimes hundreds, of murdered civilians are still being found in Israeli kibbutzim in the south of the country.

In response to the aggression, Israel announced the launch of Operation Iron Swords, and the Israeli Security Council unanimously approved a ground operation in the Gaza Strip aimed at destroying terrorists. The IDF has already struck at militant locations in the Gaza Strip.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, on the 17th day of the war against terrorist groups, Israel expressed its readiness to cancel the ground military operation in the Gaza Strip. To do this, Hamas militants were set a condition - to release all hostages and surrender.

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Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Turning the heat on the ruling Congress in poll-bound Rajasthan, the Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of state Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra in Jaipur and Sikar as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case and summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son in a foreign exchange violation case.

IMAGE: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and state Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra, speak to the media in Jaipur on August 20, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Besides the premises of Dotasra, a former minister for school education, the agency is also searching the premises of party candidate from Mahua seat in Dausa, Omprakash Hudla, and some others, official sources said.

An armed escort of central paramilitary force CRPF accompanied the ED teams.

The Congress slammed the Centre over the ED's action against its leaders in Rajasthan and accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of taking the help of probe agencies in fighting polls and said people would give the Bharatiya Janata Party a befitting reply.

Chief Minister Gehlot said the ED raids are being done everyday in the state 'as the BJP does not want that Congress party's guarantees reach the women, farmers and the poor'.

Elections for the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held on November 25. The results will be declared on December 3.

Dotasra is the party candidate from Lacchmangarh seat of Sikar against BJP's Subhash Maharia. He is also the sitting MLA from this seat while Hudla is an independent MLA and the Congress has fielded him from the Mahua assembly seat this time.

The money laundering case stems from FIRs filed by the Rajasthan Police against the accused.

The accused, 'in connivance with each other leaked the question paper of general knowledge of senior teacher grade II competitive examination, 2022 which was scheduled to be conducted by RPSC (Rajasthan Public Service Commission) on 21.12.2022, 22.12.2022 and 24.12.2022 and provided it to appearing candidates for the consideration amount of Rs 8-10 lakh per candidate', the ED had said.

Former Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) member Babulal Katara and two other people identified as Anil Kumar Meena and Bhupendra Saran were arrested by the ED in this case.

The agency also summoned the Rajasthan chief minister's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law.

Vaibhav Gehlot has been asked to depose before the federal agency's office either in Jaipur or in New Delhi on Friday, the sources said.

The summons are linked to the recent ED raids against Rajasthan based hospitality group Triton Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd, Vardha Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. and its directors and promoters Shiv Shankar Sharma, Rattan Kant Sharma and others.

The agency had searched the group and its promoters for three days in August at locations in Jaipur, Udaipur, Mumbai and Delhi.

Rattan Kant Sharma's alleged links with Vaibhav Gehlot are allegedly under the scanner of the ED and it is expected to question and record his statement under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

Unaccounted cash of Rs 1.2 crore was seized by the ED after these searches.

Soon after the action against its leaders in Rajasthan, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that agencies such as the ED, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the Income Tax Department become the real 'panna pramukh (party workers)' of the BJP as soon as elections come.

'Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last throw of the dice! After Chhattisgarh, the ED has also entered the election campaign in Rajasthan and started action against Congress leaders,' Kharge said.

'The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, and the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP,' the Congress chief said in a post on X.

Ashok Gehlot added that the Congress launched guarantees for women of Rajasthan on October 25 and the ED action against Dotasra and Vaibhav Gehlot came just a day later.

'Now you can understand what I have been saying... ED's raids happen everyday in Rajasthan because the BJP does not want women, farmers and poor in the state to get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress,' Gehlot said in a post in Hindi on X.

Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera also lashed out at the Union government over the ED action.

'Just last week, Ashok Gehlot ji held a press conference in Delhi and raised questions on the role of central agencies in the elections. Today again, ED has become very active in Rajasthan. Modi ji, contest elections directly, stop taking the help of agencies,' Khera said in a post in Hindi on X.

Senior Congress leader Gehlot last week alleged that the BJP-led Centre is misusing probe agencies to target opposition leaders even after the enforcement of the model code of conduct, and urged Modi and the Election Commission to intervene.

The Rajasthan chief minister had said the ED and Income Tax raids are being conducted against opposition leaders even after the announcement of assembly polls, and these agencies are losing credibility among people in the country.
The deputy chief of Hamas's intelligence bureau, Shadi Barud was killed in a strike in the Gaza Strip on Thursday, according to the Israel Defence Forces.

IMAGE: Palestinians evacuate a casualty following an Israeli strike on a house, in Khan Younis, in the southern Gaza Strip, October 25, 2023. Photograph: Ibraheem Abu Mustafa/Reuters

The IDF accused Barud of working with Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to prepare the attacks in southern Israel on October 7.

Prior to this, Barud led battalions in the Khan Younis region and held various positions in the terror group's intelligence directorate.

Taking to social media platform X, the IDF wrote, "Shadi Barud, Deputy Head of Hamas' Intelligence Directorate has been eliminated by an IDF aerial strike. He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis."

"We will continue to strike and eliminate Hamas leaders and operatives responsible for the barbaric attacks," it added.

According to the Israel defence forces, Barud "was responsible for planning numerous terror attacks against Israeli civilians," The Times of Israel reported.

Notably, the Israeli fighter jets carried out overnight airstrikes over 250 Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip including a rocket launch site that was hidden between a mosque and kindergarten, Times of Israel reported on Thursday.

IDF has called this "another proof" that terror group Hamas uses "civilian sites for terror purposes".

The sites struck by Israel included Hamas infrastructure, command centers, tunnels, and rocket launchers, according to the IDF.

The IDF said that the rocket launchers were "placed in the heart of civilian areas that fired toward Israeli territory throughout the war."

Israeli Air Force also said in a statement about attacking over 250 terror targets of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

"Terrorist infrastructure, combat tunnel shafts and launchers in a civilian environment; The air force attacked over 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip. In the last day, fighter jets of the Air Force attacked more than 250 targets of the terrorist organization Hamas in the Gaza Strip," Israeli Air Force posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Meanwhile, the families of 224 hostages have been notified about their keen being held in the Gaza by Hamas, Times of Israel reported.

IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said that the military has so far notified the families of 224 hostages that their loved ones are being held in the Gaza Strip.

He said that the number is not final as the military investigates new information.

Notably, the number does not include four released hostages -- mother and daughter Judith and Natalie Ra'anan, freed on Friday night, and elderly women Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper released on Monday night, Times of Israel reported.

Hamas launched a massive terror attack on Israel on October 7, which killed over 1400 people and left several more injured.

After this, Israel launched a strong counter-offensive against Hamas units in Gaza strip.According to the health ministry of Hamas, the death toll in Gaza has crossed 7,000, Times of Israel reported.
The Kerala high court on Thursday issued a notice to All India Congress Committee general secretary KC Venugopal on a revision petition filed by the victim of a rape case challenging a magistrate court's acceptance of the Central Bureau of Investigation's closure report.

IMAGE: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge in conversation with party general secretary in-charge (organisation) KC Venugopal outside the party headquarters after the central election committee meeting for the Telangana assembly polls, in New Delhi, October 25, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

The high court issued the notice when the petition filed by the victim came up for hearing.

In her plea, the victim, who is a prime accused in the solar panel scam, challenged the court's decision to accept the CBI's closure report giving clean chit to the Congress leader in the sexual assault case.

She said that the chief judicial magistrate court in Thiruvananthapuram accepted the closure report, despite filing a petition raising objection.

The victim said that in the plea she had filed before the magistrate court, she had pinpointed all the materials found in the CBI probe, which corroborates her case and also points out the flaws in the investigation.

The woman alleged that the court dismissed her petition without stating at least one valid and legally sustainable reason.

"From the materials produced by the CBI before the jurisdictional court, it can be seen that many witnesses have given statements, which show that both the accused and victim were there at the Rose House on May 24, 2012 at 4:30 pm," she said in the revision petition filed before the high court.

The CBI had given a clean chit to all six accused in the case including Veugopal and Kerala ex-Chief Minister Oommen Chandy in the sexual exploitation allegation levelled by the woman.

The CBI also submitted another referral report in court exonerating Bharatiya Janata Party leader AP Abdullakutty in the sexual exploitation complaint by the woman, who is the prime accused in the sensational solar scam that rocked the southern state when the Congress-led government was in power nearly a decade ago.

The case against Abdullakutty had been registered in 2014, when he was a Congress MLA from Kannur.

He later joined the BJP.

The CBI had also submitted referral reports to the court, giving clean chit to three other Congress leaders, including Lok Sabha MPs Adoor Prakash and Hibi Eden and MLA AP Anil Kumar, who were named as accused in the sexual exploitation case filed by the woman.
Israel Defence Forces (IDF), under the command of the Givati (infantry) Brigade overnight carried out a targeted raid using tanks in the territory of the northern Gaza Strip.

IMAGE: Israeli military vehicles drive near the border with the Gaza Strip. Photograph: Ronen Zvulun/Reuters

The IDF said this was part of the preparation of the area for the next stage of combat.

As part of the activity, said the IDF, the forces located and attacked many terrorists, destroyed terrorist infrastructures, anti-tank missile launching positions and carried out work to prepare the area for future operations.

The IDF forces left the area at the end of the mission.

Reiterating his words, 'Israel is in a battle for its existence', Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that his goal against the Hamas war is 'saving the nation' and promises that a ground incursion to destroy Hamas in Gaza will start soon, The Times of Israel reported on Wednesday.

He says Israel is getting ready for a ground operation, but will not share when or how. He says he will not share the range of considerations involved.
Irrigation woes have contributed to the problem of stubble burning in the state, reports Sarthak Choudhury.

IMAGE: A farmer burns dry paddy stubble at a field in Patiala, October 7, 2023. Photograph: ANI Photo

Stubble burning or the practice wherein farmers burn crop residue to prepare their fields for sowing, has been the focus of a political slugfest between Punjab and its neighbouring states, especially the national capital region (NCR), where the phenomenon leads to a huge spike in pollution levels around this time every year.

After paddy is harvested in late September and early October, the fields are left with stalks, some of them as high as two feet.

Since the sowing of wheat begins in late October, farmers are left with little time to remove the stubble and the quickest and the cheapest way to do so is to burn it.

The government of the Aam Aadmi Party in Delhi routinely blamed the Punjab government for not doing anything to solve the problem.

However, after it came to power in the state last year, the ruling AAP has tried to address the issue with a number of steps such as increasing the budget for containing stubble burning and providing cash incentives to farmers who refrain from indulging in the practice.

This year Punjab has allocated nearly Rs 350 crore to stop stubble burning -- a 75 per cent increase from the Rs 200 crore allocated to it last year.

In contrast, the state had allocated Rs 40 crore to the cause in FY22 and a meagre Rs 1 lakh in FY21.

"Iss saal Delhi tak dhua nahi jaayega (The smoke won't reach Delhi this year)," says Lakhwinder Singh, a farmer in Peer Mohammad, a village in the district of Firozpur in Punjab.

Business Standard spoke to farmers across four districts in Punjab to get a sense of the problems they face and why some of them continue to burn stubble.

Nearly everyone said that the main reason for continuing the practice was the government's apathy and its reluctance to go all the way to help them.

"Do you think we enjoy burning stubble? Before the smoke reaches Delhi, it is inhaled by our children, our elders, and our women, some of whom are pregnant and have breathing problems. ... And yet we have no choice but to burn the stubble," says Pargat Singh, a farmer in Mathu, a village which lies 50 kilometres from Firozpur.

He adds that the government should adhere to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) order of providing farmers with machinery to remove stubble from their fields.

The NGT in 2015 had directed state governments to provide farmers with machines and facilities for the collection and removal of stubble.

"The order said that farmers with less than 2 acres of land should get the machines free of cost and those with up to 5 acres should get Rs 25,000 along with the machines," says Pargat Singh.

"For farmers with more than 5 acres of land, the government is supposed to provide subsidies worth 50 per cent of the cost of the machines. But we also need tractors to which these machines are attached and tractors cost up to Rs 10 lakh," Singh added.

In any case, it is only a small proportion of the farmers who have received this incentive, he adds.

Some say that the prices of the machinery are inflated before they get the subsidies.

"So a machine that costs Rs 3 lakh is often sold for Rs 4.5 lakh by designated sellers. So even with the subsidy, the farmer ends up paying more than he should be paying," says Kulvinder Singh, a farmer in Bhawanigarh, a town 19 kilometres from Sangrur.

The allegation could not be verified independently.

In the past, a number of companies have tried to help farmers reduce stubble burning, but with little or no success.

According to officials cited in several reports, the National Thermal Power Corporation had promised to use 20 million tonne of stubble for four years to turn it into biofuel, but managed to get only 3.5 million tonnes.

The State-run firm has also been running sustained ad campaigns for the cause since November 2017.

NTPC officials say that the problem is more one of supply.

They say that none of the stubble-burning states invested in or incentivised the setting up of units for making biofuel pellets from farm residue.

Another farmer pointed out that irrigation woes have contributed to the problem of stubble burning in the state.

Since the advent of the Green Revolution in the 1960s, Punjab shifted from farming diverse crops (moong, jowar etc) to a two-crop cycle of paddy and wheat.

With the changing face of farming in the state, the water-guzzling paddy started dominating the fields in Punjab.

This resulted in depleting ground water levels and to tackle the issue, the state introduced the Punjab Preservation of Subsoil Water Act in 2009.

The law allows paddy to be planted only after a date fixed by the government which is post the onset of monsoon.

It was argued that this would help farmers benefit from the rains instead of having to rely on groundwater.

However, a study published in October 2021 showed that the law had made no difference, and amongst all the states, groundwater extraction was the highest in Punjab -- as much 66 per cent more than the extractable limit.

Some farmers say that because they have to delay the planting of paddy, the harvest is delayed too, which leaves them with little time to prepare the fields for the sowing of wheat.

Hence, they resort to stubble burning.

"It is unfair to blame just the farmers for the depleting groundwater. We use the groundwater because we barely get anything from the rivers. The river water is mostly sent to other states, so the farmer has to look at alternate means like groundwater. At least we use the groundwater to grow food for the people. Look what the industries are doing. They flush toxic water back into the rivers and the ground. Nobody says anything to them. We have become easy targets," says Karamjeet Singh, a farmer in Dehlon, a district 19 kilometres from Ludhiana.

In Abohar, a place famous for the cultivation of Kinnow, and often referred to as the California of Punjab, depleting groundwater levels have affected the area and the harvest.

When asked if they would want to return to crop diversification, a farmer, who chooses to remain anonymous, says it might be fruitful only if the government looks into two things -- facilities such as farmer-friendly schemes and a minimum support price (MSP) for crops.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff.com
Eight former Indian Navy personnel were on Thursday handed down death sentence by a court in Qatar, a verdict that was described as "deeply" shocking by India as it vowed to explore all legal options in the case.

The Indian nationals, who worked with private security company Al Dahra, were arrested in August last year reportedly in an alleged case of espionage. However, neither the Qatari authorities nor New Delhi made the charges against the Indian nationals public.

In its reaction, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) said it is attaching "high importance" to this case and is exploring all legal options.

The former Indian Navy personnel are Captain Saurabh Vashisht, Commander Purnendu Tiwari, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Commander Amit Nagpal and Sailor Ragesh, according to people familiar with the matter.

All of the former Navy officers had "unblemished stints" of up to 20 years in the Indian Navy and had held important positions including that of instructors in the force, they said.

"We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving eight Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the MEA said.

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it said.

The MEA said it will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance to the Indians.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it said in a statement.

The MEA said it would "not be appropriate to make any further comments at this juncture" due to the "confidential nature of the proceedings".

"Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," it added.

India's ambassador to Qatar met the men in prison on October 1 after being granted consular access.

They had impeccable service records and had taken voluntary retirements in search of greener pastures, one of the people cited above said.

As part of Al Dahra security company, the Indians were imparting training to Qatari naval personnel for the last few years, the people cited above said.

The Al Dahra security company had some arrangements with the Qatari authorities for facilitating training to Qatari naval personnel, they said.

The company wound up its operations after the arrest of one of its personnel.

There were reports that the top executive of Al Dahra was taken into custody but he was released a couple of months later.

It is learnt that the former Indian naval personnel were kept in solitary confinement for several months before they were transferred to "two-person" cells.

"This (the Qatari court verdict) is unbelievable. I am sure the government will leave no stone unturned to ensure release of the veterans," said former Indian Navy spokesperson Capt (retd) D K Sharma.

The people cited above said charges were also framed against two Qatari nationals, one of whom is Khamis al-Ajmi, the CEO of Al Dahra Global. Al-Ajmi was also kept in solitary confinement for a period of two months and was granted bail later.

The company's CEO, an Omani national who had also been detained, was released just before the beginning of the FIFA Football World Cup in Qatar, the people said.

The bail pleas of the Indians were rejected on multiple occasions, they said.

It is learnt that the families of the former Indian Navy personnel had filed a mercy plea to the Emir of Qatar. However, there is no confirmation of it.

The people said the case has been taken up by India at various official and political levels with Qatar.

They said the Indians were working on a "commercial basis" and the government is doing everything possible to help them just as it does for every Indian citizen.

Some sources indicated that the Indian nationals were overseeing the induction of Italian small stealth U2I2 submarines as part of their work at Al Dahra.

Deepak Mittal, former Indian ambassador to Doha, met the detainees thrice during their detention, the people said.

The charges were filed against the eight Indian Navy veterans on March 25 and they are tried under Qatari law.

In May, Al Dahra Global closed its operations in Doha and all those working there (primarily Indians) have since returned home.

In the past, the Navy had taken up the case of the former naval personnel with top brass of the government for securing their release.
The Indian Union Muslim League, a key ally of the Congress-led United Democratic Front in Kerala, organised a massive rally here on Thursday denouncing the reported indiscriminate killings of civilians, including women and children, in the Israeli attack on the Gaza strip.

IMAGE: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor being received by the party leaders and IUML workers at the airport in Kozhikode, Kerala, October 26, 2023. Photograph: Courtesy Shashi Tharoor on X

Tens of thousands of IUML supporters took part in the Palestine Solidarity Human Rights rally, inaugurated by IUML leader Panakkad Syed Sadiq Ali Shihab Thangal.

Congress Working Committee member Shashi Tharoor attended the event as the chief guest.

Tharoor, addressing the gathering, lamented what he termed as "one of the most distressing human rights catastrophes" witnessed over the past 19 days.

"This may well be one of the most significant political rallies we have seen in India and perhaps across the world in defence of human rights and in favor of peace. This is a rally for peace," the Thiruvananthapuram MP said.

He said that innocent women and children had suffered casualties, initially in Israel and subsequently in Gaza, and emphasised the imperative of ending this conflict.

Tharoor underscored India's historical commitment to peace, tracing it back to the era of Mahatma Gandhi.

"We have always stood for a permanent solution to this crisis," he said.

In unequivocal terms, Tharoor also condemned the attack carried by Palestinian armed group Hamas in Israel on October 7, describing it as an 'act of terror'.

"On October 7, terrorists attacked Israel and claimed 1,400 lives. Two hundred individuals were taken hostage. In response, Israel killed 6000 people. The bombing continues," he said.

The Congress leader said that this was not an issue confined to Muslims alone, but a matter of fundamental human rights.

"The bomb falls without asking anyone's religion. Christians constitute one to two percent of the Palestinian population. They too have perished in this conflict," he asserted.

Recollecting his tenure as a UN diplomat, Tharoor recounted his personal meetings with Palestine Liberation Organisation leader Yasser Arafat, who often referenced Indira Gandhi with pride, highlighting India's enduring support for Palestine.
The pro-talk faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom has demanded reservation in 94 assembly constituencies for the indigenous people of the state, an office bearer of the organisation said on Thursday.

Photograph: / Rediff.com IMAGE: A view of the new building (House) of the Assam Legislative Assembly ahead of its inauguration ceremony, in Guwahati, July 30, 2023.

ULFA (pro-talk) general secretary Anup Chetia said they have sent their suggestions to the Centre on the draft peace agreement and are waiting for a response from the Union government.

"We want reservation in 94 seats of Assam legislative assembly for the indigenous people of the state. This is more important after the delimitation exercise," he said.

In August, the Election Commission published its final delimitation report by retaining the number of assembly seats in Assam at 126 and the Lok Sabha constituencies at 14. The state has seven Rajya Sabha seats. It revised the nomenclature of one parliamentary and 19 assembly constituencies.

Talking about the decades-old issues related to ULFA, Chetia expressed his faith in the present government to solve them amicably.

"We are waiting for a positive response from the central government to our suggestions. We are optimistic and praise the sincerity shown by the Centre," he said.

Chetia also demanded a "correct National Register of Citizens" for Assam and asserted that the cut-off year for implementing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act for the state should be 1951 instead of 2014.

The CAA seeks to provide Indian citizenship to Hindus, Jains, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Parsis who entered India on or before December 31, 2014 from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Chetia hoped that the "peace agreement with the Centre will be signed very soon", marking an end to the problems raised by the organisation.

ULFA (pro-talk) vice president Pradip Gogoi said major problems of the people will be solved right from the grassroots level after the agreement is signed.

"The ULFA will be dissolved then and the organisation will not enter politics to contest polls. If members want to take part in elections, it will be their personal or individual effort," he said.

More than 200 cadres above the rank of sergeant of the organisation participated in a deliberation held at a resort in Kaziranga National Park on Wednesday.

On youths continuing to join the ULFA(Independent), Chetia said they are going to the banned outfit these days out of "only selfish motive".

"Many of them come back as soon as they cannot withstand the hardship of fugitive life," he added.
Israel is in the midst of a fight for its existence and preparations are underway for a ground incursion into Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said and added that 'all Hamas members are dead men walking'.

IMAGE: Palestinians, who fled their houses due to Israeli strikes, gather to get their share of charity food offered by volunteers, amid food shortages, at a UN-run school where they take refuge, in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, on October 23, 2023. Photograph: Mahmoud al-Masri/Reuters

In an address to the nation on Wednesday evening, he stressed that the two main goals of the war were 'to eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governance capabilities, and to do everything possible to get our captives home'.

Seeking national unity, the prime minister said that, "Israel is in the midst of a fight for our existence."

"All Hamas members are dead men walking -- above and below ground, inside and outside Gaza," Netanyahu said.

Together with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, Minister Benny Gantz, the Security Cabinet, the Chief-of-Staff and heads of the security organisations, 'we are working round the clock in order to achieve the aims of the war until victory, and doing so without political considerations', he said.

The goals are 'saving the nation, achieving victory', Netanyahu said and added that 'we are raining down hellfire on Hamas, and we have already eliminated thousands of terrorists -- and this is only the beginning'.

On speculation about an imminent ground operation in Gaza, the Israeli leader said that it was coming but he would not share when or how.

"We are preparing for a ground incursion. I won't specify when, how, how many. I also won't detail the range of considerations, most of which the public is not aware of. And that's the way it is supposed to be. This is the way, so that we protect our soldiers' lives," Netanyahu said.

Israel has drafted 350,000-400,000 soldiers for a ground operation in Gaza since the dastardly attacks on its southern communities on October 7.

"I would like to be clear. The timing of the IDF (Israel Defence Forces) action will be determined unanimously by the War Cabinet, together with the IDF Chief-of-Staff. Together with the Security Cabinet, we are working to ensure the optimal conditions for our soldiers in the coming actions," Prime Minister Netanyahu said.

"When we go into Gaza, in the continuation of the fighting, we will exact the full price from the murderers, those perpetrators of atrocities," he said and equated Hamas with Daesh (ISIS).

Netanyahu repeated Israel's call to Gazan non-combatants to head to southern Gaza.

Some 600,000-700,000 Gazans are said to have already moved from the northern part of Gaza to the southern side of the coastal strip.

Some Gazans were even reported to be coming back to their homes in the north in the last two-three days with the ground incursion getting delayed, and sensing a potential lull in the fighting.

However, IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, said that the army had stepped up its aerial strikes in the Gaza Strip to 'improve' its situation for the ground offensive.

"Today we struck in Gaza City the terror infrastructure in buildings and underground," he said on Wednesday.

"We will continue to strike in Gaza to achieve the goals of the war. Every strike improves our situation for the next stages," Hagari added, referring to the expected ground incursion.

The war 'will be long, and to achieve the goals of the war, resilience, trust and patience are required' from the public, the IDF spokesperson stressed.

On taking responsibility for the October 7 debacle, Prime Minister Netanyahu said that he will face a probe into what happened on that day but that the investigation must not take place until after the war.

"October 7 was a black day in our history. We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border and the Gaza-envelope area. The debacle will be checked to the full," he said.

"Everyone will have to give answers on the debacle, including me, but all that will happen only after the war," he said.

Netanyahu said that 'as the prime minister, I am responsible for securing the future of the state'.

"Right now, my job is to lead the state of Israel and the people to a crushing victory over our enemies," he said.

"Now is the time to join the forces for one goal: to surge forward to victory, with deep faith in the justice of our cause," the prime minister said adding, 'together we will fight and together we will win'.
As of the morning of October 26, 21 Ukrainian citizens have become victims of the Israeli-Palestinian war. One more person is missing.

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Among the killed and wounded Ukrainian citizens in Israel and the Gaza Strip are children. This was reported to OBOZ.UA by the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Oleg Nikolenko.

According to him, the total number of victims among Ukrainians has increased to 21. One more person is considered missing. Two Ukrainian children and an adult were killed in the Gaza Strip. Also, 6 Ukrainians, including three minors, were injured there. They have been diagnosed with injuries of varying severity, and all of them are being provided with medical assistance.

The news is supplemented by...
WEST ARLINGTON  Today is the last day of the year that the "OPEN" message painted by hand on the side of an A-frame sign will be turned to fa
The US Marines have successfully tested a "robot goat", also known as a "robot dog", equipped with an M72 LAW rocket-propelled grenade launcher. The development will allow Marines to strike targets remotely from a position of cover.

ADVERTISIMENT

The tests took place as part of tactical exercises in September. As Interesting Engineering writes, the Chinese "robot dog" Unitree Go1 is widely available on the Internet and is relatively cheap (to watch the video, scroll to the end of the news).

The "robo-goat" can be controlled by an operator using a controller. In this way, it can conduct reconnaissance using the camera's "eyes" to assess the situation.

Once the robo-goat is in position, the missile can be launched using the controller, and if the robot survives the collision, it can wait to confirm the target's destruction before moving on or returning to rearm.

ADVERTISIMENT

"The Marine can be in cover or behind cover, the weapon system can move forward, and the Marine can operate it from a safe location, allowing it to get closer to the target," said Aaron Safadi, an officer in the exercise's tactical training and management team.

To mount the M72 on the "goat robot," the vehicle was first fitted with a metal box containing firing controls and safety switches on its back. After firing an RPG, the box can be opened, the used launcher thrown away and a new M72 LAW installed. Such a system is convenient in combat situations, notes Interesting Engineering.

ADVERTISIMENT

The capabilities of an armed "goat robot" could prove invaluable to armed forces around the world, as they would reduce the risk of human casualties when confronting heavily armed targets such as tanks.

It is also likely to provide some interesting tactical options for street and underground fighting in tunnels and other underground facilities, the article says.

As reported by OBOZ.UA, at the Army-2022 exhibition in Russia, an M-81 robot dog in a ninja costume armed with an RPG-26 grenade launcher was shown. It was presented as a new development, although such a robot is sold on AliExpress for $5,850.

Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A claim has been widely circulated in Chinese-language social media posts that claim U.S. President Joe Biden said during his latest visit to Tel Aviv that he was born in Israel.

But the claim is false. Bidens remarks have been misrepresented. A review of a video and a transcript of his speech found no mention of him being born in Israel.

The claim was first shared in this report published by Russias state-run news agency TASS on Oct. 19.

TASS cited Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying: Just now, [US President Joe] Biden has claimed that he was born in Israel. This means he should not have been elected US president.

The Russian Foreign Ministry questioned whether President Biden was eligible to run for U.S. president after the president reportedly stated he was born in Israel. (Screenshot/TASS)

The claim emerged as Biden departed Israel on Oct. 18 after a high-stakes diplomatic mission to demonstrate solidarity with Israel, but also to secure Israels commitment to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and deliver a personal warning to exercise restraint.

It is unusual for an American president to openly visit a country at war, and such visits are often kept secret until arrival due to security concerns.

This time, however, the Biden administration disclosed the itinerary in advance and televised the visit, an uncommon move widely interpreted as an effort by the United States to dissuade Israel from deploying ground troops in Gaza.

The identical claim was also repeatedly shared on famous Chinese social media platforms such as Weibo and Netease. At one point, the hashtag #BidenSaysHeWasBornInIsrael was trending among the users.

Rumors that President Biden acknowledged he was born in Israel spread across Chinese social media. (Screenshot / Weibo and Sohu)

However, the claim is false. Bidens remarks have been misrepresented.

Keyword searches on YouTube found a recording of Bidens speech on Oct. 18 during his visit to Tel Aviv published here on the official YouTube channel of the U.S. Department of State.

At the clips 4:45 mark, he said: The State of Israel was born to be a safe place for the Jewish people of the world. Thats why it was born. I have long said: If Israel didnt exist, we would have to invent it.

Such remarks can be seen in the official transcript of the speech published on White Houses website on Oct. 18.

A review of a video and a transcript of his speech found no mention of him being born in Israel.

The claim has also been debunked by other international organizations, including Newsweek.

Translated by RFA staff. Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster

Asia Fact Check Lab (AFCL) is a branch of RFA established to counter disinformation in todays complex media environment. Our journalists publish both daily and special reports that aim to sharpen and deepen our readers understanding of public issues.
Roka commune residents visit the local health care center to get blood tests in western Cambodias Battambang province on Dec. 19, 2014.

Villagers in western Cambodia where a mass outbreak of HIV took place almost a decade ago are facing increasingly poor living conditions and have asked government authorities to renew efforts to help them.

Nearly 300 people in Sangke districts Roka commune in Battambang province, contracted HIV  the virus that causes AIDS  from reused unsterilized syringes. A judge in 2015 sentenced Yem Chhrem to 25 years in prison for practicing medicine without a license in Roka between 1996 and 2014.

Government workers and civil society organizations often visited the commune to distribute food and other assistance in the two years after the outbreak was discovered, a 66-year-old HIV-positive Roka resident told Radio Free Asia on Thursday.

But that attention has fallen off in recent years, and in the meantime many infected villagers have become too frail to work, she said.

Nowadays, only young people are OK. But old people like me or my younger brother, are so sick, she said. We face a severe shortage of everything.

Yem Chhrem is escorted by Cambodian police officials at a court in Battambang province on Oct. 20, 2015. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison for practicing medicine without a license in Roka between 1996 and 2014. Credit: AFP





Several villagers told RFA that a non-governmental organization distributes 40 kilograms (88 pounds) of rice per family and other food items every three months.

Medicine also provided

HIV-positive villagers are also given antiretroviral drugs that help keep the virus under control  but also have kept younger villagers from going to neighboring Thailand or elsewhere to find more lucrative work, according to one 55-year-old resident.

Her 19-year-old son works in construction in the provincial capital, but earns a small and unreliable wage, she said.

He is afraid to go far away from home to find a job because he needs the medicine, and the medicine is distributed to patients once a month, she said.

RFA couldnt reach Battambang Provincial Health Department Deputy Director Sou Sanith on Thursday.

A relative sits by the covered body of Nach Ros, the fifth villager to die of HIV/AIDS in Roka commune in western Cambodias Battambang province, Feb. 25, 2015. Credit: RFA

Some 51 people have died from HIV-related causes since 2015, Roka commune chief Sim Pov said.

There are currently 246 people living with HIV in Roka, including 36 children, and many of them are indeed living in poverty, she said. Commune authorities have been working to add them to a government program that gives them a monthly subsidy, she said.

However, that subsidy hasnt been enough to pay for basic living expenses, according to Yin Mengly, coordinator for the Cambodian Human Rights and Development Association, or Adhoc, in Battambang and Pailin provinces.

The government should also seek some kind of long-term employment for the villagers, he said.

We should not discriminate and or forget these people. We should take care of them, Yin Mengly said. We must not forget that they are also humans like us.

Translated by Sok Ry Sum. Edited by Matt Reed and Malcolm Foster.
While pornography is illegal, defining it can be tricky within a moral context.

Police in Cambodia raid a condominium in Phnom Penh, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, where people were suspected of producing pornography.

Cambodian authorities have arrested 30 people for illegally producing pornography, prompting an outcry over how such content has damaged the honor of a conservative Buddhist country increasingly at odds with its reputation as a nightlife destination.

On Tuesday night, police raided a condominium in Phnom Penh and detained several Chinese and Vietnamese nationals, as well as Cambodians, they say had set up a studio to film erotic videos.

Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Ministry of Interior spokesman Touch Sokhak said the order to raid the building in the capitals Boeung Keng Kang district had come directly from Interior Minister Sar Sokha.

Attempts by RFA Khmer to contact the Ministry of Interior and the police for comment on the arrests went unanswered on Thursday, but National Police spokesman Chhay Kim Khoeun confirmed to local media that authorities are questioning the suspects to determine whether they will bring charges against them.

Convictions on charges of illegally producing pornography are punishable by up to a year in prison in Cambodia. Authorities have typically sent Cambodian women arrested in similar cases to the countrys Social Affairs Center for rehabilitation.

Ros Sotha, executive Director of the Cambodian Coalition for the Defense of Human Rights, or CHRAC, told RFA that the production of pornography has seriously damaged the prestige of Cambodian women and degraded the national culture.

"Cambodia is a civilized country that maintains peace of mind without being obsessed with greed, guilt, delusion and talk about sexual desire, he said.

He expressed concern that the nation is becoming a place for foreigners to conduct illegal business and force Cambodian women into situations that bring shame on society.

Police in Cambodia detained several Chinese and Vietnamese nationals, as well as Cambodians, in the raid on the condominium in Phnom Penh, Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. Credit: Facebook/Ministry of Interior Spokesman Touch Sokhak

But Ros Sotha also warned against the impact pornography might have on the public.

These sex videos can provoke people to become sexually promiscuous and possibly commit sexual crimes such as raping their children or forcing sex on others without their consent, he said. This is an abuse of both our culture and the law.

He called on authorities to crack down on such crimes.

Legality vs morality

While pornography is illegal in Cambodia, the process used to define what constitutes such content is less clear and increasingly fraught, as the nation walks a fine line between upholding traditional values and billing itself as a travel destination for budget-conscious backpackers and tourists.

In March 2018, a court in Cambodia handed British national Daniel Jones a one-year suspended prison sentence for using pornographic photos to promote a pool party in Siem Reap  home to the countrys famed Angkor Wat temple complex  two months earlier.

In handing down the maximum sentence, Judge Um Chan Thol said Jones had "unintentionally produced pornography that affects Khmer culture."

Authorities have also fined and deported several tourists for taking nude photos at Angkor Wat, which had implemented a ban on wearing revealing clothing at the site in 2016.

Translated by Yun, Samean. Edited by Joshua Lipes and Malcolm Foster.
She was likely targeted for her defense of a rights lawyer, other sensitive cases.

Chinese authorities have given a six-and-a-half year prison term to human rights lawyer Li Yuhan for "fraud" and "picking quarrels and stirring up trouble"  a charge often used to target peaceful critics of the ruling Communist Party.

The Heping District People's Court in Shenyang, in northeastern Chinas Liaoning province, imposed the sentence at a hearing on Oct. 25 amid tight security and a large police presence in the streets outside, a family member told Radio Free Asia on Thursday.

Li, who is in her 70s and needs assistance to walk, has spent the past six years in a detention center, so would be freed in April. Still, she said she will appeal the sentence.

For her brother, Li Yongsheng, it was the first time he had seen her since her trial two years ago  after which no verdict was rendered.

"She has aged significantly," he said. "Two police officers had to assist her to walk; she was no longer able to walk normally."

He said there are also signs that her long incarceration has taken a toll on Li's mental state.

"Her thinking is confused, and her reactions are slower, and she has muddled logic," he said.

Her brother said the court building was cordoned off on all sides with iron barriers, with dozens of police and security personnel in the area. No passers-by were allowed through, and no other business was conducted in the court that day, he said.

Defended rights lawyer

Li is widely believed to have been targeted for her defense of prominent rights lawyer Wang Yu, who was among the first people to be detained in a nationwide operation targeting rights lawyers and activists in July 2015.

"Another reason is that before her arrest, my sister had been handling other sensitive cases, various complaints and accusations, which had caused a lot of trouble for local governments," Li Yongsheng said on Thursday.

Li is being held in the Shenyang No. 1 Detention Center, where she has reportedly spent some time on hunger strike.

Lawyers say China's police-run detention centers are often overcrowded and lack facilities to ensure adequate medical care for inmates. Li has been hospitalized at least twice and given a number of medications, but applications for medical parole have been denied.

A legal expert who asked to remain anonymous for fear of political reprisals told Radio Free Asia that the long delay in Li's case was likely because the authorities were trying to elicit a "confession" from her, which she has repeatedly refused to give.

He said the authorities had to sentence her for at least as long as she has already spent behind bars, but said the April 2024 release date was still a "relatively good outcome" for such a politically sensitive case.

"The authorities can't afford to admit to any error; now that they've detained her for that long, they have to sentence her accordingly," the expert said.

She paid a huge price

Li initially went missing on Oct. 9, 2017, and has been "at risk of torture and other ill-treatment" in the detention center, London-based Amnesty International said at the time. The group called for her immediate release.

Li has paid "a huge price" for her defense of individuals unjustly accused of wrongdoing, said

Amnesty Internationals Deputy Regional Director for China Sarah Brooks.

"She should be released immediately and unconditionally, and the multiple allegations of her ill-treatment in detention independently investigated," Brooks said.

Lawyer Li has been arbitrarily detained for six years [and] should be at home with her family, not in prison for merely doing her job to defend peoples human rights," she added.

Li Yongsheng, her brother, said the family has made written complaints over the authorities' handling of the case, in particular questioning why it was given to the Heping district court in the first place.

"Heping district isn't her place of residence, nor where her household registration is, and it's not where the alleged 'crimes' occurred, either," he said. "So there are indeed questions about its jurisdiction here."

But he said that despite "brilliant arguments" from Li's defense team, "we can't influence this kind of trial."

Translated by Luisetta Mudie. Edited by Malcolm Foster.
British National Overseas passports (BNO) and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China passports seen in a file photograph from Dec. 17, 2020.

British human rights organization Hong Kong Watch has released a research report saying the Canadian-based financial service companies Manulife and Sun Life have refused to allow thousands of Hongkongers who have migrated to the U.K. with BNO visas to withdraw their Mandatory Provident Funds (MPFs) early.

The amount involved is estimated to be CA$1.5 billion Canadian (HK$85 billion or US$1.1 billion).

Another survey also pointed out that among respondents currently living in the U.K. or Canada, Manulife and Sun Life denied over 90% of their customers MPF withdrawal applications. Hong Kong Watch said it suspects the financial service companies are collaborating with the Hong Kong government to block Hongkongers from withdrawing their MPFs.

MPF is a mandatory retirement savings plan or pension fund for Hong Kong residents. According to their remuneration and length of employment, the majority of employees and their employers are required to contribute monthly to fund schemes administered by approved private organizations.

Hong Kong Watch Policy and Advocacy Director Sam Goodman said on Wednesday that the situation suggested collusion between Manulife, Sun Life and the Hong Kong government to obstruct Hongkongers from accessing their funds.

Goodman urged the Canadian government to cooperate with Manulife and Sun Life to resolve the situation. He emphasized that any evidence showing that Hongkongers permanently residing abroad are being withheld their MPFs was in contravention of Manulifes and Sun Lifes duties as MPF trustees.

According to cited cases in the report, some Hongkongers who migrated to the U.K. have been denied applications to withdraw their MPFs and others fear that even if they become British citizens, they will continue to be denied access to their funds.

Withdrawals refused

Another report published by Hong Kong Watch surveyed 290 respondents currently living in the U.K. or Canada. For some 60% of these respondents the MPF providers are the Canada-based financial service companies Manulife and Sun Life, while over 82% of the Hongkongers who permanently moved to the U.K. or Canada and attempted to withdraw their MPF were unsuccessful.

The survey indicated that these two companies denied over 90% of their customers MPF withdrawal applications. The reasons given were that the BNO visa is not a valid document, or It doesnt prove residency outside of Hong Kong.

Aileen Calverley, co-founder and trustee of Hong Kong Watch, met with Canadian MPs in Ottawa to discuss MPF withdrawals and other Hong Kong issues. Aileen stated that the primary focus now is to contact the Canadian financial service companies and understand the situation better.

Hong Kong Watch pointed out that anyone intending to leave Hong Kong permanently previously had the right to withdraw their MPFs. However, due to the unilateral declaration by the Chinese Communist Party not to recognize BNO status anymore, hundreds of thousands of Hongkongers are without access to their funds.

The Hong Kong Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) had earlier announced the arrest of 20 people, suspected of using fake documents and statutory declarations to apply for early MPF withdrawals, according to another Hong Kong Watch report released on Oct. 13.

According to reports, several Hongkongers who withdrew their MPF through such means were arrested upon returning to Hong Kong during the summer holidays and had their passports confiscated and were banned from leaving the country.

Translated by Chris Taylor. Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
Finnish authorities have retrieved a broken anchor from the site of damaged pipeline on Oct. 8, 2023 .

China has said it will stand ready to provide necessary assistance to the investigation into Finlands claims a Hong Kong vessel may have damaged a natural gas pipeline.

Finnish police said on Tuesday the Balticconnector pipeline between Finland and Estonia was likely damaged by an anchor as on the seabed, a 1.5 to 4 meter-wide dragging trail is seen to lead to the point of damage in the gas pipeline.

The investigators said they found the anchor just a few meters from the gas pipeline damage point. They said the anchor may have belonged to the Chinese container vessel Newnew Polar Bear which was sailing through the area at around 1:20 a.m. local time on Oct. 8, 2023 when the pipeline was reported damaged.

The police focused their suspicion on the ship as until now, they could not visually confirm that both front anchors of the vessel were in their place.

Newnew Polar Bear is a Chinese-owned and Hong Kong-registered commercial ship.

The vessel was contacted several times, but they were not willing to cooperate, they said, adding that help is needed from the Chinese authorities for the investigation to continue.

A graphic obtained by Reuters on October 13, 2023, shows where the Balticconnector pipeline between Finland and Estonia was damaged on October 8, by an unknown reason. Credit: NORSAR/Handout via Reuters

In Beijing, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said China maintains unimpeded communication with parties including Finland over the incident, which is still under investigation, and stands ready to provide necessary assistance in accordance with international law.

Mao Ning told reporters on Wednesday that the Chinese government hopes relevant parties will follow the principles of being objective, fair, just and professional and find out what happened soon.

Earlier this week, Mao said the Chinese vessel was sailing through relevant waters normally when the incident occurred. Due to the rather bad conditions at sea, it didnt detect anything abnormal.

Finlands National Bureau of Investigation has published a photo of the broken anchor that investigators retrieved from the seabed.

The next step would be to confirm that it came from the Chinese container vessel and determine if the damage was an accident or intentional, said Carl Schuster, a retired U.S. Navy captain turned maritime analyst.

If evidence of the Newnew Polar Bear's involvement surfaces, then the captain will try to claim it was an accident but that is not likely unless the evidence is conclusive, Schuster told RFA.

Cable cutting

The Estonian government has said it is investigating two incidents that might also be linked to the Newnew Polar Bear, in which a telecoms cable connecting Finland and Estonia and another between Sweden and Estonia, were damaged.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas was quoted in the domestic media as saying that there are reasons to believe that the three incidents are related, but it is too early to reveal sensitive information.

Some observers recall that Chinese ships were accused of damaging communications cables before.

In April, Taiwans National Communications Commission blamed two Chinese ships for cutting two undersea internet cables connecting Taiwan island and the outlying islands of Matsu, leading to 50 days of no, or very limited internet access, there.

The same cables have been damaged 27 times since 2017 by Chinese sand dredging and fishing boats, some cut by ships anchors, Taiwanese authorities said.

RFA analyzed automatic identification system data provided by ship-tracking website MarineTraffic and found that at around 1:00 a.m. on Oct. 8, the Newnew Polar Bear was approaching the site of the Balticconnector pipeline.

During the course of one hour or so, the Newnew Polar Bear slowed down to under 11 knots before picking up again, but did not stop.

Besides the Chinese ship, a Russian flag bearer  the nuclear-powered cargo ship Sevmorput  was also seen at the scene, sailing at a higher speed.

Norwegian seismology institute NORSAR reported blast-like waves near the pipeline at the time.

What does Russia say?

NewNew Polar Bear was renamed and registered in Hong Kong in June. Immediately prior to this, the ship sailed under the name Baltic Fulmar flying the Cypriot flag.

Newnew Polar Bear and four other ships owned by Chinas Hainan Yangpu Newnew Shipping Co. began transporting cargo between Russia and China using the Northern Sea Route along Russias Arctic coast in July. The route was previously not operational because of the ice.

The Newnew Polar Bear made a port call in Baltiysk, Russia, on Oct. 6. Credit: Anton Alikhanovs Telegram

Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is believed to assist the Chinese shipping line with nuclear-powered icebreakers, reducing the transit time between Russias St Petersburg and Chinas Shanghai to less than a month, compared to 45-50 days if using the route through the Suez Canal.

Sevmorput is part of the Rosatom-owned nuclear icebreaker fleet, the only such fleet in the world.

The Northern Sea Route is one of the strategic priorities of cooperation between the Russians and the Chinese, and Newnew Polar Bear reflects this close collaboration.

But Russian netizens have posted photos of the vessel flying the Russian flag at port calls, such as on Oct. 6 in Baltiysk, Kaliningrads region. This left watchers puzzled.

It is not legal under international law for the ship to fly a Russian flag unless its registration was changed to Russia. There is no evidence it has changed its registration, said maritime analyst Carl Schuster.

A commercial vessel must fly the flag of its country of registration although it may have a logo of its country of ownership painted on its superstructure, he added,

So far, as the suspicion is not directed at Russia, Russian official channels have yet to comment on the case.

Yet on social media platforms, Russian analysts and observers have been talking about what they call the West attempting to block traffic from China to Russia and Europe.

Perhaps the West understands that this traffic can increase massively in the near future - both from the Baltic and along the Northern Sea Route, one of Russias well known Sinologists, Nikolai Vavilov, wrote on his Telegram platform.

Beijings plans for Taiwan or the war in the Middle East may be the factors that China wanted to redistribute traffic from the Indo-Pacific to the Northern route, Vavilov said.

Edited by Mike Firn and Elaine Chan.
The move reignites an online theory that the day is politically sensitive as it sounds like 'get rid of Xi.

A man dressed as Caishen, the God of Wealth, distributes sweets to diners during a Lunar New Year's Eve dinner service at Shangri-La Shougang Park hotel in Beijing, Jan. 21, 2023.

The Chinese government has dropped Lunar New Year's Eve  the night on which families traditionally gather to cook and eat together  as a statutory public holiday, sparking an online outcry and reigniting speculation that the day is considered politically sensitive by Communist Party leader Xi Jinping because it sounds like a call to remove him from office.

An Oct. 25 notice from the General Office of the State Council designated Feb. 10-17 as national holiday, but not Feb. 9, which is the last day of the Year of the Rabbit in the lunar calendar, when families would typically gather for the main meal of the celebration, often traveling thousands of kilometers on public transportation in a mass nationwide rush to make it back in time.

While the notice "encourages" employers to grant that day as paid leave to employees, there is no requirement for them to do so, prompting widespread outrage online.

"No holiday on New Year's Eve means that migrant workers can't rush home on New Year's Eve to cook dinner," @Dempsey commented on the question-and-answer site Zhihu. "Without New Year's Eve, it's not Chinese New Year."

"It's the most important part of the Spring Festival," the user wrote, using the official government term for the holiday.

@FoTanLaiKi agreed, saying "The system has gone crazy," while @Enthusiastic_citizen_Xiao_Song quipped in reference to a popular video game: "Even the Sims in Sims 4 get a day off on New Year's Eve."

In a satirical reference to Xi Jinping's insistence on "struggle," @Director Zhang commented: "We are hard-working, able to endure hardship, and love to struggle."

The move has also reignited speculation that Xi doesn't like the holiday because its name in Chinese is a homophone for "eliminate Xi." Chinese speakers use homophonic puns for jokes, in advertising and to evade pervasive internet censorship.

"I think it's pretty funny that it sounds like 'get rid of Xi'," Jiangxi-based businessman Zhang Jia told Radio Free Asia. "But it's going to be very troublesome for a lot of people."

Passengers wait for their train to arrive at Beijing West railway station ahead of the Lunar New Year in Beijing on Jan. 21, 2023. Credit: Noel Celis/AFP

A Beijing resident who gave only the surname Wang for fear of reprisals said the authorities had displayed "a lack of human feeling" with the decision.

"How come these people who decide the holidays don't understand human feelings or culture?" Wang said.

Some commented that the day had lost its official holiday status once before, in 2014, shortly after Xi took power in late 2012.

Hunan resident Cheng Xiaofeng said he believes this is the genuine reason behind this year's move.

"There are all kinds of taboos around that kind of thing these days, so ... I don't think it's to revitalize the economy," Cheng said.

Xi is known to be highly sensitive to criticism, satire, or calls for his resignation, and this kind of associative wordplay isn't without precedent in Chinese history.

When 20th century warlord Yuan Shikai proclaimed himself emperor, he issued an edict changing the name of the Lantern Festival, which until then had sounded something like the phrase: "No more Yuan."

Shaking Chinese traditions

User @Diskence209 commented on Zhihu: "The next step will be a ban on celebrating New Year's Eve, because it sounds too similar to 'eliminate Xi'."

"We should never have had it as a holiday in the first place -- it's a Korean festival," quipped @Li_Lang's_clever_plan in a reference to the government's ban on imported cultural customs like Christmas.

"We should be wary of foreign forces playing the traditional card!" the user wrote.

"I am a student and have winter vacation, but my mother won't get annual leave," complained @He_Yanyi. "So I won't be able to see my mother on New Year's Eve, which is sad. I feel sad for my mother and also sad for myself, who will have to work in future."

"This has fundamentally shaken the traditions of the Chinese people," @wxya commented. "Very odd that this was allowed through."

"I was heartbroken when I saw the news this morning," @Little_fat_paper added. "A lot of companies won't take their encouragement and won't give people the day off on New Year's Eve."

"Did the people who came up with this plan do any research?"

A woman takes pictures of a screen displaying Spring Festival greetings from Chinese astronauts Fei Junlong, Deng Qingming and Zhang Lu aboard China's space station, during a Lunar New Year's Eve dinner service at Shangri-La Shougang Park hotel in Beijing, Jan. 21, 2023. Credit: Florence Lo/Reuters

User @little_devil_zly commented bitterly, recalling the grueling lockdowns of the three-year zero-COVID policy: "So it's OK for them to lock down cities for months at a time, but not to give us an extra day off."

Others wondered what they would eat if there was no time to cook, and came up with an alternative suggestion.

"What should we do if we dont have the day off and cant prepare the New Years Eve dinner? Isn't it obvious?" wrote @Good_times_are_yet_to_come, answering their own question: "Ready meals."

@Zhihu_user said government employees typically get to go home early on New Year's Eve anyway, even if there's no public holiday, so they are out of touch with the needs of people outside the government system.

"For them, New Year's Eve is the same as a holiday. If it is postponed, they can get an extra day of holiday," they wrote.

@nenhuoo said the officials who came up with the arrangement were "arrogant and out of touch with reality for too long," and hadn't considered how long it takes people from rural or remote parts of the country to get home for the celebration.

"They have just estimated travel times and have ignored rural transportation capacity and efficiency issues. Even in affluent rural areas there might just be one shuttle bus a day," the comment said.

@Sharpen_the_knife_internally said it was just as well that many of China's national treasures aren't in government hands.

"Just as well that some of our cultural relics are held with the great powers, such as in the British Museum," they commented. "Because you never know what ... bullshit orders the higher-ups will issue."

"Ordinary people are miserable under the management of this trash!" they wrote. "And the scary thing is, maybe this is just the beginning, and the 'good times' may really be yet to come."



Translated with additional reporting by Luisetta Mudie.
Wang Yi is the most senior Chinese official to visit America in years, but Xi might be right behind him.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks at a press conference on the sidelines of the Third Belt and Road Forum at the media center in Beijing, Oct. 18, 2023.

UPDATED at 5:25 p.m. ET on 10-26-2023

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrived in Washington on Thursday for talks expected to pave the way for U.S. President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to meet in San Francisco next month.

Its the first by a Chinese foreign minister to the United States since before the COVID-19 pandemic, and comes more than four months after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Beijing as part of an effort to thaw increasingly frosty ties between the two powers.

Three other U.S. cabinet-level officials have visited Beijing since  Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo and climate envoy John Kerry  but Wang, who had an open invitation to Washington, is the first Chinese official to make the return trip.

He will have dinner with Blinken on Thursday evening. Blinken told the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday that the two diplomats would discuss, among other things, how to stop the Israel-Hamas conflict from growing and spreading throughout the Middle East region.

Speaking alongside Wang prior to their dinner, Blinken said he was pleased to welcome him to the United States and that he looked forward to constructive conversations over the next few days.

In English, a surprised Wang noted Blinkens comment was brief.

He then said as two major countries, China and the United States needed to return to a healthy, stable relationship, and ignore jarring voices in both countries to instead try to talk together again.

We have disagreements, we have differences. At the same time, we also share important common interests, and we face challenges that we need to respond to together, the Chinese foreign minister said. Therefore, China and the United States need to have dialogue.

On Friday, Wang is also expected to meet Biden at the White House after a meeting with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, with whom he met in Malta on Sept. 16 and 17 en route to Moscow.

Wang was previously Chinas foreign minister from 2013 to 2022 but returned to the role in July after the ouster of his successor, Qin Gang, amid rumors of an affair with a U.S.-based Chinese TV presenter.

Groundwork laid

The visit comes ahead of next months meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in San Francisco, which Xi is reportedly set to attend, for only his third trip abroad this year, after visits to Moscow in March and Johannesburg, South Africa, in August.

If Xi attends, it will be the first opportunity for Biden and Xi to talk face-to-face since their high-profile meeting in November last year at the G-20 summit in Bali, Indonesia, which was their first meeting since Biden took office. Last month, Xi skipped both the G-20 meeting in New Delhi and the U.N. General Assembly in New York.

Chinas President Xi Jinping attends the plenary session during the 2023 BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, on August 23, 2023. (Gianluigi Guercia/Pool via Reuters)

American officials have appeared at pains this year to show the world they are trying to improve relations with Beijing after 12 months of mounting tensions over Taiwan, the South China Sea, microchips and an alleged Chinese spy balloon that was found floating over the United States.

But Biden himself has appeared less married to the program of thawed relations, calling Xi a dictator shortly after Blinkens visit to Beijing and often alluding to the enormous problems in Chinas economy.

That has continued even in the run-up to a possible Xi meeting.

During a joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Wednesday, Biden said China was facing internal and external difficulties right now causing it to engage in intimidation.

Just this past week, PRC vessels acted dangerously and unlawfully as our Philippine friends conducted a routine resupply mission within their own exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, Biden said, using an acronym for the Peoples Republic of China.

I want to be clear, I want to be very clear: The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad, he said.

U.S. President Joe Biden toasts with Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during an official State Dinner at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Jonathan Ernst/Reuters)

Chinese Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning replied that Biden should stay out of a dispute she said was between Beijing and Manila.

The U.S. is not a party to the South China Sea issue and has no right to interfere in the issue between China and the Philippines, Mao said.

Conciliatory tone

Still, relations between Washington and Beijing appear on the mend.

Before flying out to Washington, Wang attended a meeting in Beijing between Xi and California Gov. Gavin Newsom, with both leaders speaking about the importance of improving U.S.-China ties.

Newsom told reporters he was in Beijing with hopes of turning the page, of renewing our friendship and reengaging [on] foundational and fundamental issues that will determine our collective faith in the future.

Xi also sent a conciliatory letter to the annual dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations in New York on Wednesday night.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Xi said that whether China and the United States can find a right way to get along with each other bears on world peace and development and the future of humanity.

China is ready to work with the United States, in the three principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, the letter said, and wants to properly manage differences, jointly address global challenges, and help each other succeed and prosper together to the benefit of both countries as well as the world.

But the idea of a thaw has not been welcomed by all in Washington.

House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul and committee member Young Kim on Wednesday issued their own joint letter condemning the Chinese foreign ministers visit.

The Chinese government has become increasingly aggressive since Wangs last trip to Washington in 2019, the two Republican lawmakers wrote, and Beijing had made clear that it is an unreliable partner.

During its meetings with Wang Yi, the Biden administration should not fall for false promises but demand deliverables such as releasing Americans taken hostage in China, stopping the export of fentanyl precursors, and halting its military expansionism, the letter said.

Updated to include comments from Antony Blinken and Wang Yi.
U.S. President Joe Biden holds a joint press conference with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during the trilateral summit at Camp David near Thurmont, Maryland, U.S., August 18, 2023.

The United States and its allies have verified an arms trade deal between Russia and North Korea that could bolster Moscows aggression towards Ukraine, issuing a stern warning that the allies would respond against these deleterious actions.

The United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) strongly condemn the provision of military equipment and munitions by the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) to the Russian Federation for use against the government and people of Ukraine, the joint statement said Thursday, referring to the two Koreas formal names.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, the statement said, adding that North Korea was seeking military assistance from Russia in return to advance its own military capabilities.



The allies stand together, resolute in our opposition to arms transfers and related military cooperation between the DPRK and Russia and the deleterious effect such actions have on global security and nonproliferation, according to the statement.

The statement came as North Koreas leader Kim Jong Un and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met at the symbol of Russian space prowess in Russias Far East last month, where they vowed to boost their comprehensive cooperation, spanning from the economy to military.

Authorities of both the U.S. and South Korea have been warning publicly that Russias weapons technology transfer in exchange for Pyongyangs conventional ammunition was at the heart of the cooperation.

Both Kim and Putin are yet to publicly comment on any ammunition deal, but the Kremlin said last month that it would cooperate with North Korea in sensitive areas that cant be disclosed.

Radio Free Asia cited analysis by a private U.S. research organization the Institute for the Study of War as saying that the North could have already provided up to 500,000 pieces of ammunition to Russia, which could be used in its invasion against Ukraine. The joint statement by the allies confirms that there has been illegal trading between the two countries.

The allies on Thursday also warned both Pyongyang and Moscow that such an action is highly illegal. We emphasize that arms transfers to or from the DPRK  as well as the transfer to the DPRK of certain items and technical cooperation related to the DPRKs weapons of mass destruction, ballistic missile, or conventional weapons programs,  would violate multiple U.N. Security Council resolutions, the statement said.

Russia itself voted for the U.N. Security Council resolutions that contain these restrictions, it added.

Russia and North Korea have recently beefed up their efforts to establish a united front against the U.S. and its regional partners.

At the summit between Kim and Putin last month, both leaders committed to establishing an anti-imperialist united front. Pyongyang has consistently labeled the U.S. and its allies as imperialists.

North Koreas recent foreign policy maneuvers also suggest a broader strategy in motion. This includes Pyongyangs alleged support for Hamas during its conflict with U.S.-ally Israel, and strengthening relations with Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These actions indicate Pyongyangs intent to form a cohesive stance against Washington.

Edited by Taejun Kang and Mike Firn.
When a deadline loomed at the Chinese-run Shin Han garment factory in Yangon, management ordered workers to complete shifts that lasted more than 12 hours, from early in the morning until 9 at night. Two workers with health problems tried to make it through their shift, but when they asked to take a break, they were fired.

Working conditions in Myanmars garment industry were already bad enough after the 2021 coup to prompt Western brands such as Swedish clothing giant H&M to withdraw from the country. But investors from China and elsewhere are filling the gap  and now things are even worse, workers and labor groups say.

Despite the harsh conditions and low pay, many workers simply cant afford to quit  or even take a sick day. For missing a day, workers at the Shin Han factory will get their already meager wage  as low as 140,000 kyat (US$67) a month -- cut by 30,000 kyat ($14).

Even if theyre sick, they have to work because they need this money. Some come to work and they work until they cant, said one employee, who declined to be named and has worked at the factory since June 2022, a few months after it opened.

The withdrawal of Western brands from Myanmar doesnt mean that production is ceasing  its sort of the opposite, said Dave Welsh, the Myanmar country director for Solidarity Center, a labor rights organization.

You have all kinds of nefarious actors that are more challenging for both domestic and international labor groups to pressure and gain leverage on, he said.

New factories opening

Since January 2022, the Myanmar Garment Manufacturers Association, an industry group, has reported an increase of 61 factories in the sector, with Chinese investors accounting for more than half of the growth. Japanese and Thai investors accounted for some of the other investments.

However, the group declined to identify the new factories or companies involved, saying it was a breach of the investors privacy.

The Federation of General Workers Myanmar  a major union  told RFA that the number of new factories opened since last January was somewhere closer to 100, with most investors from China and Myanmar. Some are not registered and employ less than 100 workers.

Laborers work at a garment factory in Yangon, Nov. 1, 2018. Credit: Ye Aung Thu/AFP





The union said that factories often close and reopen under different names, leaving workers without jobs and making it difficult to hold them accountable, but in about 75% of these new factories, they notice a theme  workers are already raising red flags on working conditions, starting with increased rules inside the workplace.

Workers only have a limited chance to go to the toilet and drink water, said a spokesperson from the Federation of General Workers Myanmar, declining to be named for security reasons.

In some cases, the factory issues cards which gives them a chance to go to the toilet and which gives them a chance to drink water  but only two, three, or four cards in one sewing line.

Rising Demands

The International Labor Organizations Commission of Inquiry published in August shows that exports increased above pre-coup levels once in 2022, despite the projected withdrawal of large European players.

It also found an increase in demand from foreign buyers that year, with workers telling the group their targets could not be achieved reasonably during regular working hours.

Due to the high amount of hourly rates and high amount of operation targets, workers sometimes need to work even in the lunch break, a Federation of General Workers Myanmar spokesperson told RFA. So its kind of like forced labor happening in the workplace.

But the Shin Han garment factory worker said they have another reason to produce as much as they can  now, their salary depends on it.

Workers from a garment factory in Myanmars Hlaing Tharyar township are seen on Sept. 13,2023. Credit: RFA





One worker who asked to remain unnamed cited the new ticket system in which her base pay is half of her salary before the coup.

The worker told RFA that in her factory, which was opened in January 2022 by a Chinese investor, working quickly is the only way to make pre-coup salaries. With her wage cut to 140,000 kyat (US$67), she needs to work twice as much to make her former 280,000 (US$133) per month.

To receive the minimum wage, we need to finish at least 400 items a day. Its a huge workload for us, she said. But under the new ticket system, exceeding huge daily goals is rewarded with even more meager salaries. For every 10 additional garments sewed, they can receive a maximum of 7 kyat, or a fraction of U.S. cent.

Almost all the factories established after 2022 are running with the ticket system, she said.

Another worker from Chinese and Myanmar-owned Eternal Fashion Company Limited shared a similar experience. Her factory, which opened in May this year and employs over 4,000 workers, pays about half of what her former factory did.

The hourly rate [for extra work] is reduced to 200 and 250 kyat (9 to 12 U.S. cents) she said, declining to be named for fear of reprisals. Some, she says, are paid as low as 170 kyat (8 cents) an hour.

Mixed views

As Myanmars garment sector changes, workers reactions are polarized.

One woman working in a Yangon bag factory for the last three years said that she sees the new investment as a sign that the sector is expanding again.

Im happy because there are many factories increasing in the industrial zone, so they can support the new workers and new laborers who move from the delta and rural areas, said Naw Eh Thar. The new workers can get jobs in Yangon so theyre happy with this increase in new factories.

But others say their sense of security is undermined as factories increase production only to shut down a few months later. Garment workers told RFA that they would prefer a well-established factory over a newer one, citing the lack of job security their peers face.

Employees work at a garment factory in the Shwe Pyi Thar industrial zone in Yangon, Sept. 18, 2015. Credit: Ye Aung Thu/AFP





According to the International Labor Organization, employers fired 41% of the workers after the coup, of which only 29.5% received compensation.

If I can choose, Id work at an old factory, said one worker, declining to be named. The small factories that started during the current situation, these are not certain, so Im afraid to work at new factories because theres no job security.

For the worker at Shin Han battling wage disputes and trying to meet her production goals, what she mostly feels is fear.

Before the coup, I was very happy to go to work and I really liked my work at the time, she said. The next day in the early morning, when I realize I need to go to work, Im scared.

Edited by Taejun Kang and Malcolm Foster.
They will be held until they are 18, among 16 others sentenced to prison terms in Sagaing.

Myanmars junta issued prison sentences to 20 people, including four minors, residents told Radio Free Asia on Thursday. Most of the accused were sentenced under acts of terrorism in northern Myanmar.

On Monday, Sagaing regions Monywa court sentenced three minors to be detained in a training school over two hours away in Mandalay until the age of 18.

RFA could not confirm the exact ages of Sai Thiha Tun, Pyae Phyo Aung and Zin Nyi Nyi Tun, but a pro-military channel on the messaging app Telegram announced the group is being prosecuted for criticizing the military online and protesting.

On Wednesday, a court in Kale township sentenced an underage girl to two years in the same training school under similar charges.

Under the countrys Child Rights Law, children can be detained in detention centers for a minimum of two years, or until they are 18, if the court finds they have no guardians or if their character has deteriorated after committing a crime.

The accused are not able to hire lawyers because they come from poor areas, a political activist told RFA.

"They didn't hire lawyers even when they were in custody or during the court hearing. This is because the costs of judicial proceedings while in custody are quite high, they said, declining to be named for security reasons.

Most of the people arrested are from the villages. A few from downtown were arrested for riding motorcycles.

On Monday, the Monywa court also sentenced five men to four years in prison for violating counter-terrorism laws, including organizing, hosting or concealing terrorist organizations.

The group was accused of associating with and supporting the National Unity Government and local Peoples Defense Forces.

Monywas court sentenced another six men on Tuesday to spend four to 11 years in prison for alleged acts of terrorism, specifically with a local Peoples Defense Force.

On the same day, a court in Ye-U district sentenced another two men from Taze township to terms ranging from 10 to 15 years.

All 20 defendants sentenced this week were arrested last year and have been awaiting trial in prison, according to Monywa Township political activists.

Last week, two men and a woman were sentenced to two years in prison by Sagaing townships court under counter-terrorism laws for associating with illegal groups.

Calls to Sagaing regions junta spokesperson Sai Naing Naing Kyaw seeking comment on the sentences went unanswered.

Translated by RFA Burmese. Edited by Mike Firn.
Asia Pacific is a hot spot for several looming risks with irreversible impacts, researchers say.

Residents fill drinking water from a truck during a water supply crisis in Chennai in Southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, July 15, 2019.

Extreme environmental events are increasingly interconnected and edging humanity perilously closer to a series of catastrophic tipping points, where the consequences of inaction could prove irreversible, new United Nations research has warned.

The cumulative effects of climate change and the unsustainable utilization of natural resources have pushed humanity to the brink of confronting six interconnected tipping points, including escalating rates of extinction, groundwater depletion, glacial melting, extreme heat, space debris, and uninsurable future, the U.N. Universitys Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) said Wednesday in the report Interconnected Disaster Risks 2023.

As we indiscriminately extract our water resources, damage nature and biodiversity, and pollute both Earth and space, we are moving dangerously close to the brink of multiple risk tipping points that could destroy the very systems that our life depends on, said Zita Sebesvari, lead author and deputy director of UNU-EHS.

Additionally, we also lose some of our tools and options to deal with future disaster risk.

The U.N. report cautioned that the potential extinction of one million plant and animal species within a few decades could lead to a domino effect of extinction among species dependent on them, increasing the risk of ecosystem collapse.

The report said that groundwater depletion, critical for over 2 billion people and crucial for agriculture, is approaching a tipping point.

Over 70% of groundwater is used for agriculture. As more aquifers are depleting faster than they can be replenished, it threatens food production systems, the report said.

Additionally, the runoff from melting glaciers is expected to decrease in the future.

A space satellite hovering above the coastline. Credit: Space X on Unsplash, via UNU





The researchers also issued a stark warning regarding the escalating danger of space debris, cautioning that collisions in space could render Earths orbit unusable, jeopardizing future space activities, including satellite monitoring of environmental threats.

Another critical tipping point highlighted in the report relates to increasing climate-related hazards, making insurance increasingly unaffordable.

Hot spot Asia should pay attention to tipping points

The Asia Pacific region is a hot spot for several risk tipping points, Sebesvari and Caitlyn Eberle, a senior researcher and co-lead author for the report, said. Some countries in the Asia Pacific region are hot spots for unbearable heat and groundwater depletion risks.

A specific challenge is that some places in the Asia Pacific may experience several tipping points simultaneously, they said, adding the United Arab Emirates, Pakistan and India are hotspots for groundwater depletion and unbearable heat, while Pakistan and India are also facing the impacts of melting glaciers.

For the risk tipping point groundwater depletion, India, China, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia belong to some of the largest groundwater users globally, the authors told Radio Free Asia in an email interview.

India tops the world in groundwater usage, surpassing the United States and China combined, while Pakistan has the highest water consumption per unit of GDP.

A glacial river bed in Sagarmatha National Park in Mt Everest region, Nepal. Credit: Peter Prokosch, GRID-Arendal, via UNU

Global warming has caused glaciers worldwide to melt twice as fast as they did in the past two decades.

Over 90,000 glaciers in the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountains are nearing a critical point. This tipping point means they will produce less freshwater, jeopardizing the lives of about 870 million people who rely on them, as per the report.

The two authors also pointed out several accelerating extinctions from the Asian Pacific region, including Javan Tiger in Indonesia, which was last seen in 1976 and declared extinct in 2003 mainly due to habitat destruction.

In Malaysia, mangroves are critically endangered due to pollution, which could further impact habitat loss for other species and ecosystems.

Climate models suggest that wet bulb temperature (WBT) above 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit) will regularly be exceeded in the next 30 years in places like South Asia, the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, and within 50 years for Eastern China and Southeast Asia, the duo said.

A 35 C WBT signifies a dangerous mix of high temperature (40 C) and 75% humidity, putting human health at risk. At this point, an unaided healthy person can only survive for six hours because they cant effectively cool down by sweating.

China faces a dichotomy

Sebesvari and Eberle said that China has been re-imagining cities by including more green areas, which not only help to decrease urban flooding but also lower urban heat.

However, China is a hotspot for groundwater extraction, for species extinction and contributes increasingly to space junk in the orbit, they told RFA. In terms of reducing climate risks to avoid tipping points, China faces a dichotomy.

While they are global leaders in the renewable energy transition (hosting nearly half of the worlds total operating wind and solar capacity), they are at the same time the worlds largest per capita emitter of CO2, quadrupling the number of new coal power projects between 2021 and 2022, they added.

In 2022, China was the top coal consumer, producer, and importer worldwide, with significant oil and gas consumption, making it the leading global CO2 emitter, responsible for a third of total emissions.

The countrys total CO2 emissions last year amounted to a staggering 12.1 gigatons, two-thirds of which originated from using coal in electricity generation and industrial processes, resulting in 25% of global energy-related emissions.

Men eat slices of watermelon, amid a yellow alert for heatwave, in Beijing, July 20, 2023. Credit: Reuters



China will retain its status as the largest emitter in the world in 2050, the Paris-based International Energy Agency said in a report Tuesday.

Chinas 2021 Space White Paper highlights the importance of reusable rockets. The Long March 9, Chinas super heavy rocket, is being redesigned for reusability and is set to launch by 2030.

However, there is a limited amount of objects that can orbit safely in space and the risk of crashes is already imminent, the two authors said.

The report also presents a new framework for addressing risk tipping points through Avoid and Adapt solutions. These solutions involve either delaying the progression or fundamentally transforming systems to be more resilient.

Human-induced climate change is causing extreme heat waves that could become lethal in some areas. An Adapt-Delay solution installs air conditioners to delay the danger, while an Avoid-Transform solution focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting low-carbon living to prevent the tipping point.

The report was released ahead of next months COP28 climate conference in Dubai, where world leaders are meeting to discuss and take action on global climate change issues.

Real transformative change involves everyone, said Sebesvari. The report serves as a timely reminder before the U.N. Climate Conference that we must all be part of the solution.

Edited by Mike Firn and Taejun Kang.
The families face deportation on Nov. 1 after string of suicide bombings by Afghans.

The U.N. refugee agency is investigating the situation of 18 Uyghur families facing deportation from Pakistan if they fail to comply with a government order expelling all illegal migrants, said two Uyghurs involved in the matter.

Pakistani officials issued the order after dozens of people were killed in two suicide bombings in late September. They said that most such bombings this year were conducted by Afghan nationals, but they decided to expel all migrants without a valid residence permit  including 1.73 million Afghan refugees  if they dont leave by the start of November.

The plight of the Uyghur families, whose members total about 100 people, was first reported by Radio Free Asia earlier in October. Most are descendants of individuals who migrated decades ago from Xinjiang to Afghanistan and later to Pakistan. They lack Afghan or Chinese passports and Pakistani residence permits.

Omer Khan, founder of the Pakistan-based Omer Uyghur Trust, said on Oct. 23 that the United Nations Office for Refugees in Pakistan has contacted him twice about the Uyghurs living in Rawalpindi since RFAs earlier report.

The Uyghurs have sought help from the office for years, but without success.

But this time, the agency collected the names, addresses, and family statuses of the Uyghurs, said Khan and a Uyghur named Abdulahed who lives in Rawalpindi.

They mentioned that they would contact us if there are any updates, Khan said.

But now the families landlords are pressuring them to vacate their homes by Nov. 1 and the Uyghurs are scrambling to find other accommodations, he said. And some Uyghur parents are keeping their children home from school.

We are uncertain about our next steps, Khan added.

Deportation fears

The Uyghur families fear Pakistani authorities will deport them to Afghanistan, where their safety would be at risk under current Taliban control, or to China, where Uyghurs in the far-western Xinjiang region face repression and are subjected to severe rights abuses.

The U.N. refugee agency  officially the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees, or UNHCR  also asked some of the families if they have faced any threats from Pakistani authorities or the police, Abdulahed said.

We communicated with the U.N. agency over the phone, but there is no news about what will happen, he said.

Before leaving for a third country, we hope to stay here for a while to resolve our situation, Khan said. The U.N. refugee agencys letter will play a significant role in this, Khan said, referring to a document that says the agency recognizes the Uyghurs as refugees.

The UNHCR in Pakistan did not respond to an email request for comment by RFA.

Pakistan has a full right to prevent terrorism, but Uyghurs  these are the people fleeing from terrorism and finding some refuge in Pakistan, said Abdul Malik Mujahid, president of Justice for All, a U.S.-based Islamic organization. Pakistan needs to welcome them.

Louisa Greve, director of global advocacy for the Uyghur Human Rights Project in Washington, D.C., expressed deep concern about the Uyghurs in Pakistan.

No government anywhere in the world should refoul Uyghurs, she said. According to international law they must not be deported against their will to a country where they will face torture, unjust imprisonment, or other serious human rights violations.

Translated by RFA Uyghur. Edited by Roseanne Gerin and Malcolm Foster.
2 An Afghan family arrives at a repatriation center run by the UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, in northwest Pakistan before they embark on their journey.



The United Nations estimates that 3.7 million Afghans reside in Pakistan, while Pakistani authorities believe the number to be as high as 4.4 million. Of these, just 1.4 million Afghans hold the required documentation enabling them to legally stay in Pakistan.
Pakistan issued an ultimatum to the estimated 1.7 million undocumented Afghans living in the country: leave or face arrest and forcible expulsion after November 1.

One of them is Samina Hafizi, an Afghan writer and former journalist who lives with her mother and five siblings in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad.



Since the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021, hundreds of thousands of Afghans have fled to Pakistan to escape a devastating economic and humanitarian crisis and possible retribution by the militant group.

RFE/RL's Radio Azadi asked the 24-year-old Hafizi to keep a diary amid the mass exodus of undocumented Afghan refugees and migrants from the South Asian nation.



October 22



It is 6 a.m. I slept poorly. I had nightmares and anxious thoughts.



Why did we become refugees? This question haunts me.



Nobody dares to leave their homes.



Who wants to postpone their dreams?



Now that we are refugees, why should we endure such bad days?



If we leave, where can we seek refuge?



I have not written anything for a year. I suffer from pain -- the pain of homelessness, the pain of being a refugee, and the pain of helplessness.



Wherever I go, I hear that Afghans are being expelled from Pakistan -- drivers, shopkeepers, and cooks.

WATCH: Afghan refugees in Pakistan, many having traveled for days, crossed into Afghanistan as a November 1 deadline to leave the country took effect. Islamabad has vowed to deport an estimated 1.7 million undocumented Afghans living in Pakistan if they don't leave voluntarily.



Yesterday morning, the landlords of our apartment building came and checked everyones documents. They gave a deadline to two families to get valid residency papers or they would be evicted.



Members of these families once had good lives in Afghanistan. Some were journalists, while others were soldiers. Their daughters attended schools and universities. They now fret over what will happen to them.



While visiting the hospital yesterday, I felt that nothing was the same. Anxiety and fear were written over the faces of every Afghan I met.



In Islamabad, police were looking for Afghans at security checkpoints across the city. The Afghans they found were questioned and harassed.



While waiting for my turn to see the doctor at the hospital, an Afghan woman with her toddler was breathing heavily. I brought her a glass of water. She thanked me and asked whether I had valid documents.



She told me that she fled her oppressive husband in Afghanistan to seek a new life in a third country with the help of the United Nations. But the fear of being forced to return to her cruel husband and the Talibans harsh rule has stressed her deeply.



Tens of thousands of Afghan families across Pakistan are seeking a miracle. We dont know where fate will take us.



October 25



My sisters phone woke me up early in the morning.



When she finished talking, she told me that her Afghan friend was told by her landlord to leave her apartment by the afternoon. My sister was trembling. She said her friend and her family would stay with us until they found another place.



Later in the day, I went to a nearby market to buy supplies for our guests. The usually cheerful Afghan vegetable seller I go to was distressed. He told me that if he was deported, he would lose the business that enabled him to earn a living for the past 15 years.



Around 5 p.m., my sisters friend and her family arrived. Their voices were hoarse from crying so much. We all cried.



I felt like a caged bird unable to fly.



They were evicted because only one of the eight family members did not have a Pakistani visa. Her visa application was rejected several times.



Cruelty and fear have forced Afghans in Islamabad to stop leaving their houses.



It is heartbreaking to see dozens of Afghan families announcing the sale of their household items on Facebook daily.



October 28



Im always worried. My mental health has gradually deteriorated during the past two years.



In the morning today, Hajira, one of our Pakistani neighbors, visited us. We talked about the customs and traditions in Afghanistan and Pakistan.



Suddenly, Hajira blamed us helpless Afghans for some of the problems Pakistanis face these days.



She said Afghan refugees are bringing polio to Pakistan because our children are not vaccinated against the disease. And she said the price of everything has increased because of Afghan refugees.

When we disputed her claims, she threatened to call the police.



Thankfully, the police didnt show up. So far, we havent given anyone an excuse to evict us. But I feel nervous.



My generation will tell their children the stories of how our homeland, dreams, and hopes were snatched from us. We were defeated and destroyed just as we were ready to prosper.



We were broken into pieces and scattered to all corners of the world.



All this has broken our hearts.



October 31



If someone cannot talk, write, or cry to lessen their sorrows, what else should they do?



Die or break?



If someone asked me who are the most unfortunate people in the world, I would say refugees.



If someone asked what the worst state of existence is, I would say being a refugee.



I hate this word.



Recently, I asked fellow Afghans living in Pakistan to share their stories on Facebook.



Zuhal, 27, wrote that they left Afghanistan last year because her brother and sister worked as prosecutors for the fallen Afghan government. This prompted the Taliban to harass them and repeatedly raid their house to look for the armored car they had already returned to the government.



After constant harassment in Pakistan, most of her family members returned to Afghanistan. But she and her sister remain in Pakistan.



A 22-year-old young man told me about his ordeal.



He was stopped by the police in Islamabad a few days ago. Even though he had all the proper documents, he was detained for several hours, harassed, and threatened.



The ordeal was over when he paid a 10,000 rupee ($35) bribe to the police.



Hundreds of refugees like him are forced to pay bribes daily.

November 2



We are in a bind.



Im overwhelmed by the news of Afghans being arrested or forcibly deported.



I'm overwhelmed by the videos and photos showing their desperation, dispossession, and anguish.



Those who remain are trying to stay invisible. Everyone wants to avoid the humiliation of being forced back to a country many have not seen or, like us, fled because of the Taliban's draconian governance.



We are in limbo. We have no real choices.



Our efforts to be relocated to a third country through the UN have gone nowhere.



Returning to Taliban rule in Afghanistan is not a choice. My two younger sisters still need to go to university. But the Taliban closed that door for all Afghan women last year.



As a female-only household, we left Afghanistan because we feared that we would be forced to marry Taliban fighters. We witnessed such cases in Kabul.



We had sold everything before coming to Pakistan. We sold all our household items. Now, if we are forced to go back to Afghanistan, we will be forced to begin from zero again.

For now, we will stay in Pakistan until we are arrested or deported.



Uncertainty defines our lives. It describes the lives of all Afghans in our situation.

Diary entries have been edited for clarity; translated by Abubakar Siddique.
AMBERD, Armenia -- When a student failed to show up to class one day in early 2012, school principal Zohrab Maghakian called the boys home to find out why. The parents of the missing student confided that they couldnt afford to buy their son a uniform, so he stayed home. I felt terrible, Maghakian recalls of the phone call, made shortly after he started as principal of the school. It was impossible to block out the thought that a child was unable to come to class for this reason. Soon afterward, the young director set about transforming the school into an operation that could support its neediest students, while teaching them the lessons of village agriculture.

Today, the H. Navasardian Secondary School, located about an hours drive west of Yerevan, buzzes with activity between classes. In one room, girls and teachers sing traditional songs as they slice apples and peaches into slivers that boys carry to drying machines. Outside, boys use shovels to channel water through groves of plum trees. The school also has apricot trees, rows of strawberry bushes inside a greenhouse, potatoes, and a large vineyard. In a nearby mountain village, the schools beehives will soon be returned to the school grounds for the winter.

Much of the resulting annual harvests, which include tons of fresh grapes, scores of kilograms of honey, and vast amounts of dried fruit, is eaten by students. But the bulk is sold to local villagers, many of whom on-sell the produce to fruit-processing factories. From this income, the school is able to clothe some students and feed almost all 250 of them. In Armenia, school lunches are paid for by the government up until the fourth grade. Here, we are able to feed them until the ninth grade, Maghakian says, noting that the state budget is just 151 Armenian drams ($0.38) per student per meal.

For students in need of clothing, lengths of fabric are purchased, then teachers skilled in sewing produce the school uniforms to order. Maghakian claims the labor is done outside of classroom hours and does not interfere with the students traditional lessons, but the school has applied to have one hour per day of agricultural work included in its curriculum. The food production has its own educational value, Maghakian says, because not all students will end up in university, and all see the tangible results of physical work.

Student Diana Karapetian says the skills she learned at the school have given her the ability to help her mother at home, particularly by drying fruit to last through winter. I do the work with pleasure here at the school, because were all together," she says. "We bond like this. An old poplar tree in the schoolyard had to be cut down recently. With the help of local craftsmen, the students were able to fashion a large picnic table out of the trees timber, which sold for 150,000 drams ($370).
Ethnic Armenian Rafik Sarkisian rode his beloved horse from Nagorno-Karabakh to safety in Armenia after Azerbaijani forces attacked Nagorno-Karabakh on September 19. He traveled for over 24 hours before a local Armenian family took in the exhausted 60-year-old. Sarkisian told RFE/RL that he left nearly everything behind, including the graves of his two sons who both died in 2020 during fighting over the region.
The European Union has announced a raft of multimillion dollar deals at a forum for its Global Gateway program, the blocs new infrastructure partnership plan thats seen as an alternative to Chinas worldwide Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The first Global Gateway Forum kicked off in Brussels on October 25 and featured 90 top government representatives from more than 20 countries, including 40 leaders and ministers mostly from across the Global South.

The 27-country EU announced that Global Gateway already had 66 billion euros ($69.6 billion) in deals at the opening of the summit and proceeded to ink an additional 3 billion euros ($3.2 billion) worth of new agreements with governments across Europe, Asia, and Africa during the multiday gathering to support projects related to critical raw minerals, green energy, and transport corridors.



In her opening speech, European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen vowed to pursue high-quality investments, saying that Global Gateway was a better choice for financing and building clean infrastructure.



Global Gateway is about giving countries a choice, and a better choice, she said, adding that other investment options often come at a high price for the environment, workers rights, and sovereignty.

Launched in late 2021 and championed by von der Leyen, Global Gateway has earmarked 300 billion euros ($316 million) in a bid to streamline the EUs investment and development cooperation across the globe. Officials say the program will prioritize projects focused on renewable energy, digital transitions, and sustainability as Brussels looks to mobilize investment from member states and the private sector.

EU officials have avoided publicly framing Global Gateway as an alternative to BRI, but the summit in Brussels comes a week after China gathered representatives of more than 130 countries to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its $1 trillion global investment plan and the EU looks to be prioritizing elements such as transparency and environmental sustainability that have been repeated points of criticism for Beijings BRI.



Speaking to RFE/RL, EU diplomats voiced tacit support for Global Gateway, but expressed concerns that the program faced headwinds from conflicting attitudes among European governments and various EU agencies over how to support the program, as well as doubts about whether Brussels can make more appealing offers to partner countries than China does.

Global Gateway is like so many other EU initiatives -- a good idea, but its ultimately about repackaging old money and, as always, making it complicated by having 10 or so different portfolios instead of just one big pot of cash, an EU diplomat who requested anonymity in order to speak to the media told RFE/RL.



The diplomat added that of course Global Gateway is a competitor to BRI but we dont say that out loud because then it limits the appeal for partner countries to cut deals with programs by making it appear that cooperation comes with strings attached.



New Deals, Internal Questions



At the summit in Brussels, von der Leyen looked to frame Global Gateway as a sustainable way to build infrastructure over the long-term, saying that no country should be faced with a situation in which the only option to finance its essential infrastructure is to sell its future.



EU officials unveiled a slate of new agreements that includes deals on critical raw materials with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia, as well as cooperation on clean energy with Bangladesh, Cape Verde, Namibia, the Philippines, Tanzania, and Vietnam.



The summit also saw a 12-million-euro ($12.6 million) grant provided to Moldova to build new rail lines, a new agreement to support Turkmenistans entry into the World Trade Organization, and a 30-million-euro ($31.6 million) investment to advance vocational education and training in Tajikistan. Tajik Foreign Minister Sirojiddin Muhriddin also led a delegation to Brussels that pitched the Central Asian countrys hydropower sector to investors as part of a broader green energy transition for the region.



Other smaller-scale deals were inked with Armenia to invest 10 million euros ($10.5 million) in education and with Georgia in the form of a 16-million-euro ($16.8 million) grant to improve safety along the countrys East-West highway, which forms the backbone of Tbilisis connectivity ambitions along the Black Sea and has mostly been built by Chinese constructions firms.

This slew of deals marked a notable start for Global Gateway, another EU diplomat told RFE/RL.



The concept is genuinely something the EU can offer to the global arena, the diplomat noted, adding that the program needs to focus more on being more visible.



We are the biggest development cooperation donor in the world, but who knows this? the diplomat remarked.

'A Strange Beast'



Another EU diplomat expressed concern over the seemingly low-level political representation at the Global Gateway summit.



Heads of state from Armenia, Comoros, Namibia, Mauritania, Senegal, and Somalia attended the event, along with prime ministers from Albania, Bangladesh, Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Georgia, Moldova, Morocco, Rwanda, and Serbia.



But many EU countries did not send their top officials to attend the gathering, with Germany represented by its climate secretary and Denmark and France by their development secretaries. Italy, meanwhile, did not send any representatives.



[Global Gateway] is a strange beast, the diplomat said. Its intentions are serious and laudable, but look at the attendance list and you'll know enough. Quite a few non-EU leaders but hardly anyone from our side.



An EU Alternative?



Whether Global Gateway can wrangle enough internal support to deliver tangible results on the ground will be central to its success, Andreea Brinza, the co-founder of the Romanian Institute for the Study of the Asia-Pacific, told RFE/RL.



For the moment, Global Gateway is only a slogan, she said. [Its] a brand that wraps up very well the EUs narrative for [development] -- unfortunately, it doesnt yet have substance.



Chinas BRI has faced scandals and pushback in recent years due to environmental damage, extensive borrowing, and contract disputes. A study by AidData Lab at the College of William and Mary in Virginia found that 35 percent of BRI projects suffered from corruption scandals, labor violations, environmental hazards, and public protests.

But BRI has also so far created targeted offers in a seemingly attractive manner for governments, despite its controversies. It has also benefited from quick implementation due to the role of Chinese state companies and lenders that follow directives from the Communist Party leadership.



Romana Vlahutin, a distinguished fellow at the German Marshall Fund and the former EU special envoy for connectivity, told RFE/RL that Global Gateway currently lacks a clear strategic vision on how it will contribute to the creation of new diversified and resilient value chains.



She added that one of the biggest obstacles facing the venture is how to incentivize private markets across the bloc and the West at large to invest in the types of projects that could have a transformative impact.



Its essential for countries to have the possibility to make a choice on what's best for them, Vlahutin said. If there are only Chinese offers on the market, it means there is no choice. This must change.
With the expiration of UN sanctions designed to thwart Iran's development of ballistic missiles, both Tehran and ally Russia have said there is nothing standing in the way of them trading such technology.

The claims have led to concerns that Moscow and Tehran could try to expand their existing arms dealing to include more advanced weaponry, know-how, and technology that could boost both Russia's war effort in Ukraine and Iran's ballistic-missile and drone programs.

But while observers do not discount the possibility that Iran could try to sell previously barred weapons -- chiefly, powerful short-range ballistic missiles -- to Russia, they express skepticism Tehran will follow through.

Among the reasons, they say, are Tehran's need to maintain its own military stockpiles amid increased conflict in the Middle East, the desire to be seen as a compliant and legitimate arms trader by the international community, and the continuation of an already existing strategy of supporting the manufacture of such weaponry in other countries, including Russia.

Hamidreza Azizi, a fellow at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs in Berlin, told RFE/RL that Iran's suggestion that it is no longer subject to UN sanctions limiting its missile program is more "political, rather than technical" as it seeks to "normalize" its ability to conduct military trades and transfers.

"The actual impact of the expiry of the UN Security Council restrictions on Iran's missile program, in terms of its impact on Iran's ability to develop its missile program, is rather limited," Azizi said. "Because all these years we witnessed that, despite those restrictions being in place, Iran managed to develop not only its missile program, but also its drone program, its military capabilities, to an unprecedented level."

Azizi notes that Iran achieved this in part due to technical and scientific cooperation with other partners, mainly North Korea but also with Russia and Moscow's allies.

Iran set up a manufacturing facility for reconnaissance and combat drones in Tajikistan and Belarus is reportedly seeking to establish a factory to produce the Iranian Shahed-136 kamikaze drone believed to be used extensively by Russia in its war against Ukraine.

Western officials have also revealed the existence of a drone facility being built in Russia with Iran's assistance that would allow Moscow to build domestic versions of Iranian drones in huge numbers and could be in operation by early 2024.

With the expiration of the UN sanctions, which were largely regarded as toothless, Azizi says he expects Iran to stick to its policy "of considering its military capabilities as nonnegotiable" in any international negotiations while "continuing to advance its capabilities."

Iran can already boast some of the most sophisticated missiles and drones in the Middle East at a time when Tehran's support of proxies and militant groups in the region is being watched closely as archenemy Israel battles the Iranian-backed Hamas extremist organization.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Iran has widely been accused of delivering cheap but effective kamikaze drones to Moscow. While Iran denies the allegations, saying it only sold drones to Moscow before the war started, U.S. officials have repeatedly accused Tehran of supplying Shahed-136 Iranian drones that Russia has used to destroy civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. There has been evidence of Iranian drones rebranded as Russian Geran-2s being used on the battlefield.

And as the two countries have increased military-technical cooperation, Iran's Defense Ministry has routinely showcased its ballistic, cruise, anti-tank, and air-defense missile systems to Russian officials.

The sanctions, in effect since 2015 and enshrined in UN Resolution 2231, expired on October 18 as part of the moribund Iran nuclear deal with world powers known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The United States withdrew from the deal, which offered sanctions relief in exchange for curbs on Iran's nuclear program, in 2018. As European signatories Britain, France, and Germany tried to keep the pact alive, Iran abandoned some of its commitments, but never withdrew from the JCPOA.

The UN sanctions, which were introduced when the Security Council approved the JCPOA, called on Iran, among other things, "not to undertake any activity related to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons." Under the terms, any countries wishing to engage in related trade with Iran were required to first get approval from the UN Security Council.

In separate statements as the sanctions expired, Iran and Russia were quick to claim that they would no longer be bound by the restrictions, although neither side announced any concrete plans for future cooperation regarding Iran's ballistic-missile program.

Iran's Defense Ministry, for its part, said Tehran regarded the development as an opportunity to "strengthen its defense capabilities." But Azizi said Iran now "sees itself free from restrictions to export military technology and weapons, rather than to import them."

Russia, Azizi said, is also interested in underscoring that "there are no more restrictions or special commitments that Iran needs to observe in its military-technical cooperation when it comes to missiles" so that it can also "potentially increase the potential for Iran to send missiles to Russia."

Iran's previous export of Shahed-136 drones to Russia could be explained in part because they "arguably" fell under the UN's classification of conventional weapons, according to Jeremy Binnie, Middle East defense specialist at the global intelligence company Janes.

"We have not seen any evidence of transfers of Iranian missiles to Russia so far, but it is unclear if this has been because the Iranians did not want to be seen to be so obviously violating UNSCR 2231," Binnie told RFE/RL in written comments.

Now that the UN sanctions have expired, he said, Iran "may now be more willing to overtly provide arms" to Russia, Binnie said.

As for Russia seeking Iranian missiles, Azizi said, "as Ukraine's Western allies increase the level of their military support for Ukraine, there might be a moment that the Russian leaders decide [to import Iranian missiles because] it's not going to make any difference."

Whether Iran would actually part with such weaponry is another question, particularly considering the current war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the prospect of direct Iranian involvement in that conflict.

"Another consideration for the Iranians is maintaining their own military capabilities, which would be undermined by transferring significant numbers of missiles to Russia," Binnie said. "The uncertain situation in the Middle East right now is likely to increase Iranian unwillingness to supply weapons to Russia that they feel should be retained at home or supplied to allied groups in support of its regional goals."

One solution, Binnie said, "might be to replicate what has happened with the Shahed-136s, whereby Iran supplies initial batches, then transfers the technology to Russia so it can build them locally."

He said that while Russia had a sophisticated missile production capability of its own, "the Iranians would be teaching them how to make cheaper missiles using supply chains that circumnavigate Western sanctions."

The United States and the European Union moved quickly to impose new obstacles as the UN sanctions -- intended to blunt Iran's ballistic-missile program, and by extension its possible acquisition of nuclear weapons and delivery systems -- expired.

In September, Britain, France, and Germany announced that they would maintain their existing sanctions related to Iran's controversial nuclear program, which Tehran claims is for civilian purposes only, and its development of ballistic missiles.

The United States on October 18, the same day that the UN sanctions expired, announced new sanctions targeting individuals and companies in Iran and Russia, among other countries, in an effort to penalize Iran's efforts to buy or sell technology or equipment related to its missile and drone programs.
YEREVAN -- German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock traveled to Armenia's border with the autonomous Azerbaijani exclave of Naxcivan on November 4, the second day of a trip to the tense region.

Baerbock traveled to the Caucasus six weeks after a lightning offensive by Azerbaijani forces retook the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh following decades in which Yerevan-backed ethnic Armenians controlled the Azerbaijani territory.

More than 100,000 ethnic Armenians fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia after the Azerbaijani offensive, virtually emptying out the territory. The German Foreign Office said Baerbock was scheduled to visit a reception facility for refugees while in Armenia.

On November 4, Baerbock participated in a patrol by the civilian EU Mission in Armenia (EUMA) around 70 kilometers from the capital, Yerevan, near the border with Naxcivan, which neighbors Armenia to the southwest. EUMA is tasked with monitoring the security situation along the Armenian side of the border.

On November 3, Baerbock urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to return to the negotiating table and seek a political solution to their decades-old conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

"There is no other way for long-term peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan than the negotiation table," Baerbock said during a visit to Yerevan.

Mediation efforts led by European Council President Charles Michel "are a bridge that can show the fastest way to peace," Baerbock said after talks with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan.

Yerevan and Baku have made progress on the various problems, including demarcation, she said, and that has "raised hope that you can come to a peaceful solution."

Mirzoyan acknowledged Germany's efforts to achieve peace in the region but also said Azerbaijan had broken its promise to not engage in hostilities.

"Armenia has the will to take the path of peace in the region," he said, but he also noted humanitarian problems, Armenian prisoners of war, and the need to recognize the territorial sovereignty of both countries.

WATCH: Ethnic Armenian Rafik Sarkisian rode his beloved horse from Nagorno-Karabakh to safety in Armenia after Azerbaijani forces attacked Nagorno-Karabakh on September 19. He traveled for over 24 hours before a local Armenian family took in the exhausted 60-year-old.

Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisian earlier on November 3 touted Baerbock's visit to discuss possible peace efforts and to honor victims of Ottoman-era mass killings as "important [and] perhaps historic."

Hovhannisian told the Armenian parliament that the stop "shows Germany's commitment to invest in the [peace] process as a weighty member of the European Union."

Hours after her arrival, Baerbock laid a wreath at a memorial to the victims in 1915-16 of mass killings of more than 1 million ethnic Armenians by Ottoman Empire authorities in a tragedy over which Turkey has expressed regret but resisted acknowledging as genocide.

German lawmakers joined many other countries in 2016 by passing a resolution describing it as genocide.

The Azerbaijani-Armenian conflict that remained open since the 1990s has for years threatened to escalate into war that could drag in Russian, Turkish, or Iranian forces in an area where Europe and the West also remain heavily engaged.

Nagorno-Karabakh initially came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian military, as the Soviet Union crumbled 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.

Last month, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev raised his country's flag in the main city of Nagorno-Karabakh, known as Xankendi to Azerbaijanis and Stepanakert to the territory's ethnic Armenians.

With reporting by dpa
SOFIA -- An avid Bulgarian plane spotter heard odd chatter from commercial pilots preparing to land their aircraft in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, around 10 o'clock in the evening of August 31.

Tuned in to a Sofia Airport radio frequency, the plane spotter, who requested that they remain anonymous, said several pilots were speaking about problems they were experiencing with GPS, or the global positioning system, a network of U.S.-owned satellites that are used to determine locations on Earth.

The next day, September 1, it was happening again. Pilots approaching Sofia complained of the same problem, according to transcripts seen by RFE/RL's Bulgarian Service of recordings from a Sofia Airport radio channel. The plane spotter's findings were also confirmed by GPSJAM, a website documenting jamming activity.

The jamming had also happened before. Romania experienced a similar problem with its GPS system, a glitch that the army's chief of staff blamed on Russia and said posed a significant risk to shipping in the region. While Bulgarian officials are being careful not to directly accuse Russia, they have said that the problems with GPS largely date from the start of the Kremlin's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Asked by RFE/RL who was behind the jamming and how Sofia is countering it, the Bulgarian Defense Ministry was circumspect, only saying that the jamming was being carried out "with radio-electronic warfare systems."

"But information about the systems themselves, the means of operation and countermeasures is classified," the Defense Ministry said.

Russia is likely behind the jamming, said Thomas Withington, an expert on electronic warfare, radar, and military communications at the London-based Royal United Services Institute, a defense and security think tank, adding that such activity poses a safety risk for shipping in the area.

'Very Dangerous'

In an interview with RFE/RL's Bulgarian Service, Withington said Russia could be attempting to protect its invading forces in Ukraine from GPS-guided weapons launched by the Ukrainian military. "It's not necessarily that the Russians are doing it on purpose, but it has consequences and a side effect is that it can be very dangerous for civilian vessels relying on satellite navigation," Withington said.

Romania explicitly warned about this risk to shipping at the end of September when General Daniel Petrescu, the chief of staff of the country's army, accused Russia of "actively and constantly" jamming ships' GPS communications in its territorial waters, causing a risk of collisions.

"War has returned to Europe. It is a war chosen by Russia, which for Ukraine is a war of national survival and a fight for Western values," he told the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Forum in Bucharest, a strategy-focused conference supported by the Romanian Foreign Ministry.

Petrescu said that the war in Ukraine has fundamentally destabilized the Black Sea region. "The Black Sea has become an area of Russian military operation," he said.

"We do not see the end of this war now, and while we admire the resilience of Ukrainian society in the face of Russian attacks, we must also prepare for a long-term confrontation with the regime of the Russian Federation," the general added.

Such electronic warfare -- the use of electronic signals to locate, intercept, and disrupt enemy operations -- has become an important, if underreported, element in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Leaked U.S. documents, cited in June by the Royal United Services Institute, showed that Russian electronic warfare may be having a negative impact on certain U.S.-supplied weapons, known as Joint Direct Attack Munition, or JDAM.

"It is no secret that Russian land forces have deployed scores of EW (electronic warfare) systems into the Ukrainian theater of operations," that report said.

Bulgarian officials, however, have denied that GPS jamming is a serious problem. "The problems with the GPS signal are isolated incidents," Georgi Peev, director-general of BULATSA, the Bulgarian Air Navigation Service, which oversees the country's air traffic control system.

Such GPS interference "in no way compromises the security of aviation, because an alternative, ground-based [radar] system is available," Peev told RFE/RL.

Bulgaria and other countries are "monitoring the situation," Peev said, adding that they were taking precautionary steps to avert unspecified difficulties in the event of a GPS malfunction.

While the source of the jamming at Sofia Airport is still not known, some experts have speculated that Russia could be using ships in the Black Sea equipped with jamming devices.

In August, GPS interference over the Bulgarian and Romanian Black Sea coasts appeared to spike, according to data from GPSJAM. The uptick in activity occurred just a month after Russia launched what it described as military exercises in the Black Sea in an area not far from the shores of Bulgaria, which Sofia has designated its Exclusive Economic Zone, a designation that gives a state the right to explore and exploit marine resources.

'Humanitarian Corridor'

The military exercises also came in the wake of Russia's July 17 decision to unilaterally exit the UN-brokered Black Sea grain deal due to sanctions that had blocked its food and fertilizer exports.

"There is no such [military] exercise. This is just an occasion that Russia is using, and ostensibly conducting an exercise, [to try] to block the export of Ukrainian grain," Bulgarian Defense Minister Todor Tagarev said at the end of September.

Under the deal, Ukraine had managed to ship more than 32 million metric tons of grain to 45 countries over a year.

Kyiv responded to Russia's withdrawal by setting up a temporary "humanitarian corridor" for cargo vessels, and multiple ships have left Ukraine's Black Sea ports since.

Citing declassified intelligence, Britain said earlier in October that there was a risk Russia would target civilian ships travelling through this corridor in order to deter the export of Ukrainian grain. "Russia almost certainly wants to avoid openly sinking civilian ships, instead falsely laying blame on Ukraine for any attacks against civilian vessels in the Black Sea," the British Foreign Office said in a statement.

Since July, Russian attacks have damaged 130 Black Sea and Danube River ports and infrastructure facilities and have destroyed nearly 300,000 metric tons of grain, enough to feed more than 1 million people for a year, Britain said.

In September, London accused Moscow of targeting a civilian cargo ship at a port in the Black Sea with "multiple missiles," which the U.K. government said were successfully intercepted by Ukrainian defenses.

Beyond the Black Sea, jamming of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) has been detected in areas of the Mediterranean Sea, including along the coasts of Turkey, Cyprus, and Syria, according to data from GPSJAM.

Russian warships are also operating in the Mediterranean Sea, with Moscow controlling the Tartus naval facility on Syria's Mediterranean coast, a site where experts have suggested Russia is carrying out jamming operations.

The Royal United Services Institute's Withington says he believes that much of the jamming is done by equipment deployed on Russian warships in both the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea. "What the Russian weapon does is prevent the GNSS signal from space from reaching the receiver on Earth. And it does this by emitting a lot more powerful signal than [the one] coming from space," he said.

Withington has warned that incidents in the Black Sea and the skies over Ukraine could quickly escalate if Russian jamming is not thwarted, although the task is "challenging because precision electronics are required."

Written by Tony Wesolowsky based on reporting by Georgi A. Angelov
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has urged Armenia and Azerbaijan to return to the negotiating table and seek a political solution to their decades-old conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

"There is no other way for long-term peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan than the negotiation table," Baerbock said on November 3 during a visit to Yerevan.

Mediation efforts led by European Council President Charles Michel "are a bridge that can show the fastest way to peace," Baerbock said after talks with Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan.

Yerevan and Baku have made progress on the various problems, including demarcation, she said, and that has "raised hope that you can come to a peaceful solution."

Mirzoyan acknowledged Germany's efforts to achieve peace in the region but also said Azerbaijan had broken its promise to not engage in hostilities.

"Armenia has the will to take the path of peace in the region," he said, but he also noted humanitarian problems, Armenian prisoners of war, and the need to recognize the territorial sovereignty of both countries.

Baerbock is in the Caucasus for a two-day visit that comes six weeks after a lightning offensive by Azerbaijani forces retook the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh following decades in which Yerevan-backed ethnic Armenians controlled the Azerbaijani territory.

More than 100,000 ethnic Armenians fled Nagorno-Karabakh for Armenia after the Azerbaijani offensive in mid-September, virtually emptying out the territory.

The German Foreign Office said Baerbock was scheduled to visit a reception facility for Nagorno-Karabakh's refugees while in Armenia.

Baerbock will continue on to Baku for a meeting with Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Ceyhun Bayramov and other officials.

Armenian Deputy Foreign Minister Paruyr Hovhannisian earlier on November 3 touted Baerbock's visit to discuss possible peace efforts and to honor victims of Ottoman-era mass killings as "important [and] perhaps historic."

Hovhannisian told the Armenian parliament that the stop "shows Germany's commitment to invest in the [peace] process as a weighty member of the European Union."

Hours after her arrival on November 3, Baerbock laid a wreath at a memorial to the victims in 1915-16 of mass killings of more than 1 million ethnic Armenians by the Ottoman Empire in a tragedy over which Turkey has expressed regret but resisted acknowledging as a "genocide."

German lawmakers joined many other countries in 2016 by passing a resolution describing it as a genocide.

The Azerbaijani-Armenian conflict that remained open since the 1990s has for years threatened to escalate into war that could drag in Russian, Turkish, or Iranian forces in an area where Europe and the West also remain heavily engaged.

Nagorno-Karabakh initially came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces, backed by the Armenian military, as the Soviet Union crumbled 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.

Last month, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev raised his country's flag in the main city of Nagorno-Karabakh, known as Xankendi to Azeris and Stepanakert to the territory's ethnic Armenians.

Baerbock's trip follows comments on November 2 where she said enlarging the European Union by accepting more Eastern European countries into the bloc was a geopolitical necessity but will require "deep" reforms of its institutions.

"The great European question of this time is not whether but how we should make the [European] Union stronger," Baerbock said at a conference in Berlin.

Russian President Vladimir Putin "will continue to try to plow an imperial trench through Europe, which will not only separate Ukraine from us, but also Moldova, Georgia, and the Western Balkans," Baerbock said.

With reporting by dpa
Ukrainian Commander in Chief Valeriy Zaluzhniy on October 26 discussed the situation on the battlefield in Ukraine as well as the Ukrainian military's equipment requirements during a meeting with the commander of U.S. forces in Europe and the chief of the British Defense Staff.

Live Briefing: Russia's Invasion Of Ukraine RFE/RL's Live Briefing gives you all of the latest developments on Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv's counteroffensive, Western military aid, global reaction, and the plight of civilians. For all of RFE/RL's coverage of the war in Ukraine, click here.

Zaluzhniy met with U.S. Army General Christopher Cavoli and Royal Navy Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Ukrainian commander said on Telegram. Zaluzhniy did not say where the meeting took place, but Zaluzhniy posted a video of the meeting along with his message.

They spoke in detail about the situation on the battlefield, Ukraine's offensive and defensive operations, the situation in the most difficult areas, and the probable actions plans of Russian forces, Zaluzhniy said.

In addition, the conversation concerned the needs of Ukrainian forces in ammunition, drones, and military equipment, he said.

"We separately discussed the key issues of strengthening our air defense and covering critical infrastructure facilities in the autumn-winter period," Zaluzhniy noted.

The meeting came amid sporadic intense fighting in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiyivka, which has largely been turned to rubble by Russian bombing, and surrounding areas of the Donetsk region.

Kyiv's troops have repelled as many as 15 attacks by Russian forces in and around Avdiyivka in the previous 24 hours, the Ukrainian armed forces said early on October 26.

Avdiyivka has been the site of Moscows largest offensive in the war in months, and some analysts say Ukraine's supply lines have been whittled down to a narrow corridor, but Russian forces are also reportedly struggling with supplies.

Oleh Kalashnikov, press officer for Ukraine's 26th Artillery Brigade, told RFE/RL that the Russian military has a noticeable shortage of shells but continues to fight in the Bakhmut area.

"Indeed, the enemy really also has problems with shells. But he has plenty of them in our Bakhmut area. That is, the artillery shelling of our positions is continuous. Here he does not spare them," said Kalashnikov, speaking from the Bakhmut area. The most active fighting in the Bakhmut area currently is south of the city, he said.

He also emphasized that hostilities will not stop during the winter because this would give the Russian Army an opportunity to seize the initiative at the front line.

"The fighting will continue. We also heard last year that the fighting may stop for the winter, [that] there may be a pause -- there will be no pause," he said. "We will liberate our territory in any weather conditions at any time of the year."

Meanwhile, Kyiv is watching a European Union summit in Brussels where the 27-nation bloc is expected to reiterate its condemnation of Russias war and support for Ukraine amid fears of donor fatigue among some members.

With the the war now in its 21st month, European Union leaders are expected to reaffirm their support for Ukraines independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and its inherent right of self-defense, according to the draft conclusions of the summit, seen by RFE/RL.

The document, which is not final and must still be approved by EU leaders, will also reaffirm the blocs intention to continue to provide strong financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes.

The draft conclusions will also call for further strengthening sanctions against Russia over its aggression and will call on the European Commission to accelerate work on propositions on how revenues stemming directly from Russias immobilized assets could be directed to support Ukraine and its recovery and reconstruction.

With reporting by Reuters
Saumya Vishwanathan Murder Case

Saumya Vishwanathan Murder Case: Television Journalist's Tragic Murder Sparks Sentencing Discussion in Ongoing Trial

Saumya Vishwanathan Murder Case: In a significant development, a Delhi court has scheduled a crucial hearing for November 7 to deliberate on the sentencing of five individuals accused in the murder of television journalist Soumya Viswanathan. The tragic incident, which occurred on the early morning of September 30, 2008, saw Viswanathan, an employee of a prominent English news channel, fatally shot while returning home after her work shift.

The police had initially claimed that the motive behind the murder was robbery, and the case has been mired in legal proceedings ever since. In a recent turn of events, Additional Sessions Judge Ravinder Kumar Pandey revealed that certain essential documents, including the affidavits of the five accused and the pre-sentence report (PSR) from the probation officer, were yet to be filed in the Saumya Vishwanathan Murder Case.

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Judge Pandey has directed the preparation of the necessary reports and affidavits, setting the stage for the pivotal hearing on November 7. The court had previously pronounced Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljit Malik, and Ajay Kumar guilty on October 18, firmly stating that the prosecution had successfully substantiated the allegations against the accused beyond a shadow of a doubt.

The tragic murder of Soumya Viswanathan transpired while she was returning home in her car at 3:30 a.m. The investigation initially pointed to a robbery as the motive, leading to the arrest of five individuals on murder charges. These accused individuals have remained in custody since March 2009, and the upcoming sentencing deliberations are expected to shed light on the consequences they will face for their involvement in this heinous crime.


Punjab Holiday News

Punjab Holiday News: Administrative Decision to Observe Valmiki Jayanti Shobha Yatra Garners Support

Punjab Holiday News: The Jalandhar administration has made a significant decision to mark the occasion of Valmiki Jayanti. The administration has issued an order for the closure of schools, colleges, and ITIs (Industrial Training Institutes) on October 27. Notably, the initial order had indicated that educational institutions would be closed only until 2 pm, but a revised directive issued on Thursday now mandates a full-day closure.

Vishesh Sarangal, Deputy Commissioner, highlighted that a Shobha Yatra is slated to take place on October 27, aligning with the celebrations of Lord Valmiki Jayanti. With this in mind, the administrative decision to keep educational institutions closed for the entire day was made. Clear instructions have been relayed to all schools within the jurisdiction of the municipal corporation.

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(For more news apart from Punjab Holiday News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
South Korea will on Thursday release preliminary Q3 numbers for gross domestic product, highlighting a busy day for Asia-Pacific economic activity.

GDP is expected to rise 0.5 percent on quarter and 1.1 percent on year after adding 0.6 percent on quarter and 0.9 percent on year in the three months prior.

Japan will provide September figures for producer prices, with forecasts suggesting an increase of 2.0 percent on year, easing from 2.1 percent in August.

Australia will see Q3 data for import and export prices; in the previous three months, import prices fell 0.8 percent on quarter and export prices tumbled an annual 8.5 percent.

Singapore will release September numbers for industrial production and Q3 data for unemployment. Industrial production is expected to jump 8.3 percent on month and fall 1.8 percent on year after slumping 10.5 percent on month and 12.1 percent on year in August. The jobless rate in Q2 was 1.9 percent.

Hong Kong will provide September figures for imports, exports and trade balance. In August, imports were down 0.3 percent on month and exports fell 3.7 percent for a trade deficit of HKD25.6 billion.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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What parts of the world are seeing the best (and worst) economic performances lately? Click here to check out our Econ Scorecard and find out! See up-to-the-moment rankings for the best and worst performers in GDP, unemployment rate, inflation and much more.
Sandvik AB (SDVKF.PK,SDVKY.PK), a Swedish engineering firm, said on Thursday that it has signed a deal to acquire esco GmbH engineering solutions consulting, a German supplier of software for power skiving, a major within gear machining.

The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Stefan Widing, CEO of Sandvik, said: "The acquisition of esco fits very well with our strategic focus to grow within key high-growth industry segments, in this case the area of gear machining for electric vehicles."

Sandvik noted that the acquisition will have a limited impact on its EBITA margin and earnings per share.

Founded in 1993, Esco had posted revenue of about SEK 14 million for 2022.

Esco's software solutions support design, production, and quality inspection in the main area of gear manufacturing.

Power skiving is a high-growth premium niche market with strong underlying drivers such as the increasing electrification in the automotive sector.

This shift is changing manufacturing requirements in the gear market, and power skiving offers high productivity and flexibility and enables reduced cycle times compared to conventional machining methods.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
The United States, Japan, and South Korea have strongly condemned North Korea's supply of military equipment and munitions to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine.

"Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russia's war of aggression. We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russia's attempts to acquire military equipment from the DPRK", the three allied nations said in a joint statement.

The foreign ministers of the three nations alleged that in return for its support to Russia, North Korea is seeking military assistance to advance its own military capabilities.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said they are monitoring closely for any materials that Russia provides to the North in support of Pyongyang's military objectives. They emphasized that arms transfers to or from North Korea as well as the transfer to it certain items and technical cooperation related to its weapons of mass destruction, ballistic missile, or conventional weapons programs, would violate multiple UN Security Council resolutions. Russia itself voted for the UN Security Council resolutions that contain these restrictions.

The leaders also expressed deep concern over the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related to North Korea. "Such transfers would jeopardize the ongoing efforts of the international community to keep sensitive technologies out of the hands of actors who are working to destabilize regional security, threaten peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula as well as across the globe, and necessitate renewed efforts to respond appropriately across all elements of our national power to the advancing DPRK WMD threat".

The United States, Japan, and South Korea urged North Korea and Russia to abide by relevant UN Security Council resolutions and immediately cease all activities that violate them.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

Business News
Israel escalated its bombardment across the Gaza Strip for the 19th day; more homes were destroyed; the Palestinian death toll climbed to 6,500 and 17,400 wounded; Sisi warned against an Israeli ground invasion; Macron is sending a French navy ship to aid Gaza hospitals.

23:30 Russia and China used their veto right in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Wednesday against a draft resolution submitted by the United States on the current conflict in the Gaza Strip because it did not call for an immediate ceasefire.

"We strongly reject the US draft resolution because it does not call on the parties in the conflict to an immediate ceasefire," the representative of China to the UN said in a statement at the UNSC meeting.

10 members of the UNSC voted for the US resolution - the US, the UK, France, Japan, Switzerland, Albania, Malta, Gabon, Ghana, and Ecuador. Mozambique and Brazil abstained. Russia, China, and the UAE voted against it.

"We regret that the UN Security Council was unable to halt the escalation in the region," said the representative of Russia at the UN whose country's draft resolution on Tuesday calling for an immediate ceasefire was defeated by a veto from the US and the UK.

22:45 In an interview with well-known British broadcaster Piers Morgan, Egyptian podcaster Rahma Zein said Israel was "a spoiled brat" who has violated international law time and again, and accused Israel of carrying out a genocide against the Palestinian people.

"You and the Western media are unable to say no to a country that has grown up to be "a sociopath."

"The United States has given permission for Israel to [commit] genocide on the ground," she said.

"The relationship between the US and Israel is putting the world in Jeopardy," Zein stressed.

Muslims and Christians lived side by side and in peace with their Jewish neighbours in the Arab countries before the creation of the state of Israel and the dispossession of the Palestinian people, Zein told Piers Morgan, who insisted that the Palestinian resistance against Israel as an attempt of "genocide against the Jews."

The current conflict in Gaza "is not a war," she insisted, in response to his attempts to describe the conflict as "a war between two sides."

"A war assumes that both sides are on equal footing," she lambasted Morgan for attempting to equate "violence on both sides," she said.

"I have accused Israel of genocide. I am accusing Israel of genocide. It is genocide," Zein insisted.

Zein, the editor-in-chief of Scoop Empire, made international headlines after confronting CNN's Clarissa Ward on the Rafah border crossing earlier this week, challenging her on air about her complicity in the airing of a fake news segment that depicted senseless Palestinian bombing against Israelis.

Live footage showed Ward, the chief international correspondent for CNN, agreeing on air to go along with her network producer's instructions to pretend to duck "under duress" during a "senseless bombing by Hamas", as the American network continued unabashed support for Israeli airstrikes on Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

Tonight, as she decried Piers Morgan's bias against the Palestinians and refusal to denounce Israeli war crimes as such, Zein made a passionate case on his show against the Israeli occupation and Israel's long history of oppressing the Palestinian people, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the establishment of a Palestinian state, and holding Israel accountable by the UN under international law.

Last week, in a similar interview with Piers Morgan, World-renowned Egyptian satirist Bassem Youssef took the British broadcaster to task, exposing - with superb wit - his attempts to portray the current conflict as a result of the Hamas attack on 7 October and not a decades-old policy of dispossession of the Palestinian people by Israel

Bassem Youssef's interview with Morgan garnered millions of views on social media platforms in the Arab World and in Western countries.

22:30 Barbara Leaf, the top US envoy for the Middle East, flew back to the region after accompanying Secretary of State Antony Blinken on a crisis tour.

She started in the United Arab Emirates and will also visit Qatar, Oman, Egypt, Jordan, and Israel, with other stops possible, the State Department said.

22:10 Rockets were launched from the Gaza Strip have struck the city of Rishon LeTsiyon in central Israel.

There were reports of 4 Israeli injuries in central Israel, according to Al Arabiya.

21:30 Rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip on Ashdoud and other Israeli targets in the Gaza Envelope.

21:00 Warning sirens are heard in Tel Aviv and other cities in central Israel, according to Al Arabiya.

20:30 Radio Israel reported on Wednesday evening on ongoing talks to implement a major swap of prisoners between Israel and Hamas.

The report indicated that an agreement is being discussed which stipulates that Israel would release women and minor Palestinian political prisoners from Israeli jails who have not been accused of violent attacks and expand the entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah border with Egypt - in exchange for the release of all Israeli children and the elderly who were captured by Hamas on 7 October and the expansion of the humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah border with Egypt.

At the start of the Israeli war on Gaza, according to Palestinian sources, Israel held close to 10,000 Palestinian political prisoners in its jails, including hundreds of minors.

Since the start of the current conflict on 7 October, the Israeli occupation army has arrested hundreds of Palestinians in raids on various cities and towns in the West Bank.

20:30 The bureau chief of Al Jazeera in Gaza City Wael Al-Dahdouh was informed on air that his son, daughter, and wife were killed in an Israeli airstrike in the strip on Wednesday.

Al-Dahdouh, who became known to millions of viewers around the world on 7 October for covering the stories of the untold human cost of the relentless Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip on thousands of his neighbours in the strip, collapsed in tears upon hearing the news.

In a video , Al-Dahdouh, 53, is seen carrying his dead child daughter in shock and caressing his dead son before wrapping him in a coffin.

The family was killed in an Israeli airstrike against a shelter that they had recently fled to after their own neighbourhood was bombarded.

                   . pic.twitter.com/TF4HTyb0fh  Dr.Sam Youssef Ph.D.,M.Sc.,DPT. (@drhossamsamy65) October 25, 2023

20:00 The Australian government is sending a significant contingent of aircraft and supporting troops to the Middle East on standby in the event this gets worse," as the Israeli war on Gaza intensifies and threatens to spread in the region, according to the Guardian.

19:00 Israel has accepted a request from the US to temporarily delay its planned ground invasion of the Gaza Strip to give Washington more time to deploy additional air defense systems to protect its groups in the region, according to US and Israeli officials who spoke to The Times of Israel.

The Pentagon is rushing to deploy roughly a dozen air defense systems to protect American troops in several Arab states from missile attacks.

18:40 AFP photographer captured images of some displaced Palestinian mothers and their children enjoying a fleeting moment of quiet in a makeshift refugee camp in Khan Younis in the south of the Gaza Strip as relentless Israeli airstrikes continue and the prospects of death hover in the air all around them.

18:20 Hezbollah announced that five of its members were killed in clashes with Israel, bringing the total to 44 since the start of its clashes with the Israeli army on 7 October, Al-Miadeen Website.

18:10 According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health Tuesday, 10 of the 35 hospitals in the Gaza Strip are out of service, along with 65 percent of primary health care facilities. Meanwhile, 178 educational institutions, including 140 government schools and 20 UNRWA schools, are out of service.

The ministry estimated that 1.4 million Gazans have been displaced. Of these, 685,000 are sheltering with other families, 565,000 in 148 schools affiliated with the UNRWA, 101,000 in mosques, churches, and public places, and 70,000 in 67 government schools.

The statement said that 42 percent of housing units in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed by Israeli bombardment. Of these, 26,684 units have been totally destroyed, while 140,500 have been partially destroyed,

18:00 Jack Lew, the Biden administration's nominee to serve as the next US ambassador to Israel, advanced from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee  one week after a contentious confirmation hearing where Republicans sharply criticized him (and the Obama and Biden administrations, in turn) for empowering Iran's backing of Hamas.

The vote passed 12-9, with Sen. Rand Paul serving as the only Republican to vote in favour of Lew.

Lew's nomination now needs the approval of the full Senate before he is confirmed. A vote on the matter is expected to take place next week.

Both the White House and US lawmakers have flagged Lew's swift confirmation as an essential step in the U.S. response to the Hamas attack on Israel.

17:30 Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi has warned that an Israeli ground invasion of the Gaza Strip could result in a very dangerous situation including the loss of more lives.

El-Sisi's warnings came during a press conference with the French President Emmanuel Macron in Cairo on Wednesday.

"Already more than 6,000 Palestinians have been killed and thousands injured," the Egyptian president said.

"A displacement of the Palestinians in Gaza outside of their land would complicate the prospects of the two-state solution to resolve the conflict."

"We must work to contain the conflict and prevent its spread in the region," the Egyptian president noted.

"We are against the killing of all civilians on all sides," El-Sisi stressed.

From his side, President Macron announced that Paris would be sending a ship to support hospitals in Gaza.

Macron said France has a vision that focuses on confronting terrorism and simultaneously protecting civilians.

"We have to avoid escalation and the increase in the level of tensions in the region."

"We have to work toward a political resolution based on the two-state solution to the conflict," Macron stressed.

Macron arrived in Cairo on Wednesday after holding talks on Tuesday with Israeli PM Netanyahu and top Israeli officials in Israel, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, and King Abdullah II of Jordan in Amman on Wednesday morning.

16:00 The foreign ministers of Turkey and Qatar accused the international community of "double standards" Wednesday in its reaction to the escalating Gaza war.

Qatar's top diplomat Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said the two governments, both Western allies, "reaffirm our complete rejection of responding to the crisis with double standards when it comes to human life."

"It is not permissible to condemn the killing of civilians in one context and justify it in another." Al-Thani, who also serves as Qatar's prime minister, said.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said: "The failure of some American and northern European countries to condemn and prevent the destruction and disaster in Gaza constitutes a very serious double standard and plays a destabilizing role.

"The operation in Gaza should be stopped as soon as possible. Humanitarian corridors should be opened," he added.

15:30 The Palestinian health ministry says at least 6,500 Palestinians have been killed and more than 17,400 wounded in Israeli airstrikes in the war on Gaza so far, with most of them women and children.

The dead include more than 2,700 children, more than 1,500 women, and 346 elderly.

15:15 Thousands of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank rallied in Ramallah on Wednesday against the Israeli war in Gaza, denouncing the targeting of civilians and calling for an end to the blockade on the strip.

15:00 The Libyan House of Representatives has called on ambassadors of countries supporting Israel to leave Libya immediately. It has also urged the Libyan government to cease exporting oil and gas to these countries if Israel continues its actions in the Gaza Strip.

In a statement, the Libyan parliament emphasized the necessity for an immediate halt to Israeli aggression, denouncing it as "a campaign of genocide by Zionist gangs." It further expressed its opposition against any form of displacement of the Gaza population.

14:40 Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Wednesday accused the United States of "directing" Israeli strikes on Hamas in Gaza that have killed thousands of Palestinian civilians.

"America is a definite accomplice of criminals," said Khamenei during a speech in Tehran.

"The United States is in some way directing the crime that is being committed in Gaza."

14:30 In a prospective development, Israel may soon limit the access of individuals detained for 'security-related offenses' to legal counsel, as per a wartime proposal put forth by Justice Minister Yariv Levin, Times of Israel reports. Today, Levin is presenting this proposal to the cabinet, requesting their support for legislative amendments to custody regulations.

The proposed changes aim to enable continued interrogation of detainees 'suspected of committing security offenses related to war.' Israel has arrested more than 1200 Palestinians in the West Bank since October 7 including including children, women, elderly people, and journalists.

14:20 Al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas armed wing, says that it launched a rocket directed at the southern Israeli city of Eilat. This represents the longest-range attack on Israel since the beginning of the war. An Israeli army spokesperson said, "One launch was detected from Gaza towards the Eilat region, landing in an open area." There have been no reports of damage or casualties.

14:15 The Gaza Strip has lived through 16 years of de-development, the United Nations said Wednesday, adding that the economic consequences of the Israel-Hamas war were "impossible to determine".

"Gaza has experienced 16 years of de-development and suppressed human potential and the right to development," the UN's UNCTAD trade and development agency said in an annual report on the Palestinian economy.

14:00 The health ministry in the Gaza Strip said Wednesday that 6,546 people have been killed in the territory since the outbreak of war. The death toll includes 2,704 children. A total of 17,439 people have also been wounded since October 7.

13:45 Israel strikes Syria's Aleppo airport today for the fourth time in two weeks, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

13:30 Jordanian King Abdullah II calls on the international community "to take immediate action to pressure Israel to stop the war and lift the siege on the Gaza Strip".

13:10 The Israeli army struck another Hezbollah target in southern Lebanon with artillery shelling and a drone strike, claiming that a cell of the Lebanese group was preparing to carry out an attack toward Israel.

Hezbollah announced that two more of its members were killed in border clashes with Israel, bringing the death toll of its members to 40 since the war in Gaza erupted.

13:00 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Wednesday he was canceling plans to visit Israel because of its "inhumane" war against Hamas militants in Gaza.

"We had a project to go to Israel, but it was canceled, we will not go," Erdogan told ruling party lawmakers in parliament, adding that he viewed Hamas as "liberators" fighting for their own land.

12:30 Qatar's prime minister expressed optimism that "there will be a breakthrough on captives' release soon". During a press conference with the Turkish foreign minister in Doha, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, who also serves as the minister of foreign affairs, emphasized that Qatar will maintain coordination with Turkey and regional partners to de-escalate the crisis. He also condemned the "collective punishment policy" in Gaza.

Israeli National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi described Qatar's diplomatic intervention in humanitarian aspects of the conflict with Hamas in Gaza as "crucial at this time," according to Israeli media.

Qatari mediators are urging Hamas to quicken the pace of the release of captives, including women and children held in Gaza, without expecting Israeli concessions, Reuters reported, citing three diplomats and a source in the region familiar with the talks.

11:55 The UN has warned that displaced Palestinians are being forced to sleep in the streets as shelters are four times over their capacity.

Nearly 600,000 internally displaced people are sheltering in 150 UNRWA facilities. Our shelters are FOUR times over their capacities - many people are sleeping in the streets as current facilities are overwhelmed, the UNRWA wrote on X.

Nearly 600,000 internally displaced people are sheltering in 150 @UNRWA facilities.



Our shelters are FOUR times over their capacities - many people are sleeping in the streets as current facilities are overwhelmed.



At least 40 @UNRWA installations have been impacted. pic.twitter.com/2nHuZBSN7T  UNRWA (@UNRWA) October 25, 2023

11:50 The UK is not asking for ceasefire in the Middle East, Minister for immigration Robert Jenrick told Sky News.

Jenrick added he doesnt believe Israel has broken international law and that it was impossible to reach an agreement with a terrorist organization, in reference to the Palestinian faction Hamas. This comes after the US and Russia led international calls yesterday for a pause in fighting to allow for the delivery of humanitarian supplies into the enclave.

11:45 Israel arrested 58 Palestinians from the West Bank and occupied Jerusalem at Wednesday dawn, the Palestinian Prisoner Club says.

11:35 Lebanon's Hezbollah announced the killing of 11 of its members in a crossfire with Israeli forces yesterday on the Lebanese border.

Early Wednesday, the Hezbollah Secretary General, Hassan Nasrallah met with the Secretary General of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Movement, Ziad Nakhalah, and the Deputy Head of the Hamas Political Bureau, Saleh Al-Arouri.

Hezbollah's Al-Manar TV said that the meeting included "An assessment of the positions taken internationally and regionally, and what the parties of the (resistance axis) must do at this sensitive stage to achieve a real victory in Gaza."

11:30 Israeli Finance Minister says that the Gaza war costs Israel 1 billion shekels (246 million USD) per day.

11:20 French President Emmanuel Macron will meet Egyptian President Sissi in Cairo on Wednesday.

11:10 Egypt's Major General Staff Sherif Jouda Al-Araishi, Commander of the Third Field Army, asserted that the Egyptian army "has achieved peak levels of combat proficiency and readiness, prepared to carry out ground operations within our designated area of responsibility or any other location to which we are tasked." This came during President Sisi's visit to inspect the assembly of the Fourth Armored Division in the Third Field Army in Suez.

11:00 According to the Palestinian news agency WAFA, Israeli fire resulted in the deaths of five Palestinians and multiple injuries in the West Bank and Jerusalem, bringing the total death toll in the West Bank since October 7th to 103.

Three of the fatalities occurred in an Israeli airstrike near the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank, while two were shot in Qalandia camp, situated north of Jerusalem, and in the city of Qalqilya.

Israeli occupation forces have intensified military measures in the West Bank by closing checkpoints and entrances to cities, towns, and villages, and impeding the movement of residents, WAFA added.

10:15 The raging war on Gaza is already battering the economies of nearby countries, the managing director of the International Monetary Fund told a Saudi investor forum on Wednesday.

"You look at the neighboring countries -- Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan -- where the channels of impact are already visible," Kristalina Georgieva said at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

10:00 Palestinian Health Ministry in Gaza says that Israel's latest night-time air strikes on Gaza killed at least 80 people.

9:15 Journalist Saeed Al-Halabi, associated with Al-Aqsa Satellite Channel, died during an early morning attack on his residence in Jabalia, northern Gaza. His colleague, Ahmed Abu Mahadi, also succumbed in the same incident. Prior to this, an airstrike in Rafah resulted in the casualties of independent journalist Salma Makhimer and her child, bringing the total count of journalist casualties to 22 since October 7.

In the West Bank, security forces detained independent journalist Radwan Qatnani at his home in the Askar camp, located east of Nablus. This arrest adds to the total number of imprisoned journalists, which now stands at thirty, including 12 detentions since the beginning of the war.

9:10 Israel denied a visa to UN humanitarian affairs chief Martin Griffiths with the intention of "teaching them a lesson" after comments made at the UN by secretary-general Antonio Guterres.

According to Israeli media, Israel's ambassador to the UN, Gilad Erdan, explained on army radio that "due to his remarks, we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives. We have already refused a visa for under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs Martin Griffiths. The time has come to teach them a lesson."

The grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the horrific attacks by Hamas.



Those horrendous attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.  Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 25, 2023

9:00 Syrian state media reported that eight Syrian military personnel lost their lives in an Israeli airstrike in Deraa. The Israeli military had previously announced that it conducted airstrikes targeting "military infrastructure and mortar launchers associated with the Syrian Army" in response to rocket attacks originating from Syria on Tuesday.

8:00 A UN agency warned dwindling fuel supplies could force it to stop aid operations in war-riven Gaza on Wednesday, as calls mounted for a humanitarian "pause" in fighting.

After 18 days of withering Israeli air strikes and a near-total land, sea, and air blockade of the Palestinian territory, the UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) warned operations were at breaking point.

"If we do not get fuel urgently, we will be forced to halt our operations in the Gaza Strip," said the UN agency, which provides aid to 600,000 displaced Gazans.

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Mars liquid iron alloy core is surrounded by a layer of fully molten silicate (magma) about 150 km thick, according to a pair of papers published in the journal Nature.

In 2021, an analysis of seismic data gathered by the Seismic Experiment for Interior Structure (SEIS) instrument onboard NASAs InSight lander suggested the presence of a large but low-density core, composed of liquid iron and lighter elements such as sulfur, carbon, oxygen and hydrogen.

However, these results suggest that the core has a higher proportion of lighter elements than is feasible according to estimates of the abundances of these elements early in Mars formation history.

In the two new studies, the authors analyzed the latest batch of seismic data from InSight in combination with first principles simulations and geophysical models to produce their estimates for the size and composition of the Martian core.

They found that the liquid iron core of Mars is surrounded by an approximately 150 km-thick layer of near-molten silicate rock, the top of which was previously misinterpreted as the surface of the core.

This decrease in core radius implies a higher density than estimated in the earlier InSight study.

The blanket not only insulates the heat coming from the core and prevents the core from cooling, but also concentrates radioactive elements whose decay generates heat, said University of Marylands Professor Vedran Lekic.

And when that happens, the core is likely to be unable to produce the convective motions that would create a magnetic field  which can explain why Mars currently doesnt have an active magnetic field around it.

Without a functional protective magnetic field around itself, a terrestrial planet such as Mars would be extremely vulnerable to harsh solar winds and lose all the water on its surface, making it incapable of sustaining life.

This difference between Earth and Mars could be attributed to differences in internal structure and the different planetary evolution paths the two planets took, Professor Lekic said.

The thermal blanketing of Mars metallic core by the liquid layer at the base of the mantle implies that external sources are necessary to generate the magnetic field recorded in the Martian crust during the first 500 to 800 million years of its evolution, said Dr. Henri Samuel of the French National Center for Scientific Research.

These sources could be energetic impacts or core motion generated by gravitational interactions with ancient satellites which have since then disappeared.

The findings support theories that Mars was at one time a molten ocean of magma that later crystallized to produce a layer of silicate melt enriched in iron and radioactive elements at the base of the Martian mantle.

The heat emanating from the radioactive elements would then have dramatically altered the thermal evolution and cooling history of the Red Planet.

These layers, if widespread, can have pretty big consequences for the rest of the planet, Professor Lekic said.

Their existence can help tell us whether magnetic fields can be generated and maintained, how planets cool over time, and also how the dynamics of their interiors change over time.

The discovery of this stratification in the Martian mantle opens new research horizons, since the seismic data recorded by the SEIS instrument of the InSight mission will now be reconsidered in the light of this new paradigm, said ISAE-SUPAEROs Dr. Melanie Drilleau.

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A. Khan et al. 2023. Evidence for a liquid silicate layer atop the Martian core. Nature 622, 718-723; doi: 10.1038/s41586-023-06586-4

H. Samuel et al. 2023. Geophysical evidence for an enriched molten silicate layer above Marss core. Nature 622, 712-717; doi: 10.1038/s41586-023-06601-8
Taco Especial is a Mexican restaurant that was established in 1979 by my mother and father. After my parents got married, they had a dream they wanted to open a Mexican restaurant. My father took several years to find a little location, and they decided on the city of Ecorse. We serve the Downriver community, and the Wyandotte area. My father recently made me the president, and has given me full control of the restaurant. He does still have a percentage, but I oversee the everyday operations, and I have been doing that now for about 20 years, but he made it official about four years ago. I also have a sibling who works here. He is a line cook, and makes orders for the customers at the restaurant. For a business, like my parents, that started back in 1979, and now here I am, their daughter, running it for them, I hope that Taco Especial will be around for another 10 to 15 years.Well, we lived in Lincoln Park, which is, actually, not very far from here, like five minutes from the restaurant. So I think my father, at that time, was wanting to find something on a big road, first of all, which was Southfield, and he had looked at several locations, but this one caught his eye, I think, because he thought people may pass it to get to the river since we're right there by the Detroit River. So this actual little building used to be a few things, including a card shop and an ice cream store before my parents bought it.That's a good question because, in all honesty, people who start up a business, put their own money into it. They get either personal loans, they take out equity against their assets that they have, and that's what my parents did. We did a small remodel back in like 1990, and then we did a second remodel in 2019. I actually remember going to the bank with my mother and father. At the time, I was a senior in high school, but I went with them to see the guidelines to apply for this loan that my dad wanted to do these renovations at the restaurant back then. And so, me being the oldest, I went with them to guide them, help them read the paperwork and see what it was. And, at that time, they actually wanted my parents to put the restaurant and their house up as equity. And I just remember telling my dad I don't think this is a good idea because it's one thing to lose the business if something happens and we can't make these payments, but it's a second thing to lose our house. So my dad ended up getting another different kind of loan, and then he took out some money from his investments. When we did our remodel in 2019, again, we went to apply for a loan, but we went through the credit union this time, and I did end up putting the restaurant as collateral, but it wasn't for a very big loan, so I was comfortable, at this time, with putting up the restaurant now, and paying it off in so many years.One of my long-term goals would be to get a food trailer. You see them everywhere. They have Taco festivals in Royal Oak and downtown Detroit, and I think Taco Especial would really good for people to try different flavor food because you see a lot of the food trucks that sell the taqueria-style tacos. It's the tacos with the cilantro and steak tacos, or people sell the quesadillas and the tortillas, but I would definitely put at least five items on that menu that people would be like, "Where have you been all this time? Why did it take you so long to do this?" But I guess it's just finding the time, finding the trailer. I want to be custom-built like my kitchen that we did here at the restaurant. I would want to get my trailer custom-made for what I want it to serve, so that is one of my goals.For me, I would say wanting to learn how to do more like social media because everything's changing nowadays, everything's on social media, everybody creates these things, and everybody's on their phones on a day-to-day basis. I would like to know how to market the business. I do post on our Facebook page, but to be able to step it up a notch with how people are presenting their food and how they're writing it and how they're describing it to draw that new customer who's flipping through their phone be like, oh, "Where's that place at? I've never heard of that." And to say, "You know what? I'm going to go try it out."If someone were to offer a class on how to do social media or how to get your business started with the fundamentals, that would be great. I would sign up for that. I would pay for that if it was something that was going to help me. Just the general stuff like how to really just get it out there, how to really say or do certain things like a special that you want to do during the week or during the month, and it's not going to cost you a lot of money. I have ideas. I just don't know how to format it and word it where it sounds good.Honestly, I would say social media has been a big resource in trying to get information, see other people's talents, other people who are opening up their business. And I follow these communities with women who are independent and who are starting their business, or they have these conferences that you want to attend. For me, social media has helped me say, "Hey, you know what? Maybe I'm going to try that or maybe I'm going to look into that, and see how true it is."The biggest challenge, I would say, has been over the past 15 years. After 9/11 happened, and then the recession. There was a point where we weren't sure if we were going to make it. It just was the unknown, and I didn't have so many employees working because it was slow. We were just trying to stay afloat just to basically pay the bills, pay the employees, and that was it. There was no profit. I remember that time where it was like, man, what are my parents going to do? This is their legacy, their money that they put into all these years. But, things took a turn around. Things got better. And then in 2019, when I decided to do this remodel it took like four months for us to open back up with inspections with the new gas meter, with all the equipment. At that time, we thought we were only going to be closed for two months, and here it turned into four months. When we finally opened back up, we were super, super busy. Customers were so happy we were open. And then, bam, here comes February of 2020. Here comes Covid. People were scared. People didn't want to leave their houses. And it was a very scary feeling to know I had all this overhead, and money wasn't coming in how I thought it was going to be, but we made it. We're still here standing.So, here in Ecorse, there's not a lot of restaurants here. We only have, I believe, about five restaurants. Taco Especial, Auburn Cafe. Downriver there's a Coney Island, and then there's Grand Port Grill, I believe. So I think we only have, well, there's five now. There's a barbecue chicken place that just opened up. But I'm not really connected with the restaurant entrepreneurs in Ecorse. Sadly, I hate to say it, but I don't really know them. And that's one of the things I keep telling some of the council people. I said we need more restaurants. We need people to want to open some kind of an establishment here in Ecorse. Why is everyone going to the next city? Why don't we invest in the city? And I wish they would. I wish they would just take a chance and say, "Let's try this little small town." But I don't know why people just kind of shy away, and just kind of skip our town.I'd have to say everything's going to be a challenge in life, honestly. whatever you want to do or to open whatever kind of business it may be. I think if you have the right resources, and you can find the resources for that help or reach out to someone that you know who has a business to kind of guide you and help you, I think that will be helpful for you to overcome any challenges to become an entrepreneur. My number one thing is always support the small businesses because we're just like everybody else. We're not trying to get rich and become millionaires. We're just trying to survive and, instead of always going to the big chain, support the small mom-and-pop shops, too.
I started my photography business in 2018. Officially, I've been shooting since about 2012 or 2013. I was kind of forced into starting my business by a mentor, and it has been quite the journey. I serve most of the state of Michigan. I serve any community that is interested in preserving their legacy. I have traveled outside of the state for work, and love doing that as well. My specialty is large-scale events like TEDxDetroit, and then galas and such all the way down to smaller events such as baby showers and birthday parties. Thats one of my favorite things to do. I am a portraiture photographer and a lifestyle photographer, which means that I capture documentary-style photos, candid pictures that capture the essence of a person.I was born and raised in Dearborn. Dearborn is home for me. I've traveled and I find my way back to Dearborn often. The community is very tight-knit. We are one of a kind. And I enjoy serving our community because we have like-minded ideas. I understand how our families are, what our families need in regards to photography and privacy, and respect for religious and cultural differences. My goal was, actually, not to start in Dearborn because the basis of my work is in Detroit. But Dearborn has come to me and I've welcomed it with open arms and really enjoy the people that I've worked with, thus far, and I look forward to meeting new ones.For me, when it comes to capital, so far, it has been completely my own investment. I have won a couple of contests, so there's been a little extra money that has come in from that, but everything has been out of my own pocket, thus far, just because it's been really difficult trying to find ways to gain capital without falling into debt. I'm learning, as a business owner and entrepreneur, you have to do that in order to get where you need to go, take out your loans, look for extra capital. Learning about NEI ( New Economy Initiative ) has been very interesting to me because, for the longest time, I didn't know these things existed. And thanks to AAWBC (Arab American Womens Business Council) and ACCESS (Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services), I have had introductions to a lot of different people and places that have been able and willing to help. The only thing is the paperwork and whatnot gets a little difficult when you're really busy.I have a studio, but it's a home as well. It is functional, but it's not optimal. And for the things that I want to do, and the way that I prefer to shoot, I need higher ceilings and a better setup. And so while this is doing the job, my goal is to get into a brick-and-mortar, loft-style space. My ultimate goal is to make that an actual event space for maybe 100-120 people. And it would double as my studio. That way, whatever events are being held there, you have your built-in photographer. But, doing that, I'm learning is so expensive and very time-consuming and very difficult. I'm not a business person, by any means, so these processes to get the things that I do need have proven so difficult for me that I kind of put it on the back burner.In a perfect world, I would love to have an admin situation where I have my lawyer and people to run the back office. I would need capital because that's what the world runs on. The space is super important, and thankfully the people are coming, so I don't need talent. I'm blessed with talent, but I would never say no to more. I've got everything in many different places. To have it all in one spot would be wonderful, so capital and space are at the top of the list.Having someone who is able to guide me through the different steps that it's going to take to actually get a loan, to get a grant. I know a lot of people that have gotten grants, and you have to write the grant. I wouldn't have the first idea of what to do when it comes to that. So to have somebody that either offers classes, or can take a small group of people and walk us through it would be optimal. Just someone that's available for when you have these questions because I'm capable and happy to do it myself. I just don't know what to do.Heavily lean on AAWBC and ACCESS because they have been a godsend, thus far. I became familiar with AAWBC because I was actually doing their headshots, and, in doing so, we connected through different avenues because they would offer different classes. They offer opportunities to grow your business, to grow your brand, to learn about different things. They've got lawyers and different opportunities to grow if you take them, and I've taken advantage of several of them through ACCESS as well. They often have meetings, they have networking events and they're brief and they're informative. The pitch competition that I won was through ACCESS and ISP. So the resources have been there through these people. I'm an ACCESS kid. My mother worked for ACCESS back in the 80s and 90s, so I grew up there. So for me to know that they're still helping people the same way my mother used to help people is so heartwarming and so beautiful to know. I also shoot for ACCESS. I am their main photographer, and I love being able to give back to the community that helped raise me, and to know that they're still helping raise me. It's been beautiful, full circle, if you will.The difficulties that I've had would be affordability because photography is extremely expensive. The studio is next door to my home, so that's a double mortgage that I'm paying. And with photography, it's not a guaranteed payout, weekly, monthly, whatever. You don't know when your next gig is coming unless you have something solid. So knowing that is very stressful. Marketing was difficult for quite some time, but I've been partnered with one of the biggest social media marketing companies here in Michigan, and that has been a Godsend, because not only am I learning how to market and brand myself to build myself, I now have an understanding of the analytics behind it and the all the statistics that you need to know and the different things that you should post and whatnot. So that's been a game changer for me. But up until then, marketing myself, anybody, marketing yourself is very difficult. And capital has been at the bane of my business existence because it's so hard to guarantee the money flowing in, and then once you invest it again, there's no extra money to work on the next big thing.My first guidance would be to the social media marketing agency that I'm partnered with, Robert Courtney and Associates , because what I've seen and what I've learned in two years, how I've seen my business grow, forget the fact that I'm a partner there, I've never believed in something so much, especially because this world revolves around social media now. Its in Detroit and we serve all of Michigan and a lot of California now. So that is huge because you're going to learn about analytics, you're going to learn about how to market yourself, brand yourself, and if it's something you don't find that you want to do on your own, we would do it for you. Secondly, depending on what they're looking for, if its resources, AAWBC and ACCESS. Those would be the top three that I would start with just because of the opportunities. ACCESS has a Resource Wednesday email that goes out every single week, and every week I open that email, I find something useful in it. Every entrepreneur should be a part of that. Just connecting with that because it's resources that you don't know you need until you read about it.So in our community, one thing that really disappoints me when it comes to the business world is someone will show up with a wonderful business idea, get it off the ground and running, and it's doing wonderful, and then five more people will open the exact same type of space within two miles of that business. And then everything kind of goes belly up because that one place is not making any money. And now nobody is because the shared number of people has spread from one to two to five. Nothing can really thrive in a situation like that. I may never understand what the reasoning behind that is, but the originality that we used to have is no longer. I know that's a big issue that every entrepreneur in the city that I've spoken to has complained about. It's hard to be original. Also, as a whole, it's very difficult to get land here, it's very expensive. So wanting to stay in the City of Dearborn has proven very difficult for me. I'm not sure why prices are so high in comparison to surrounding cities, but that makes it difficult to want to stay in the city and continue.
Que Shebley is a fashion tech company. We specialize in luxury footwear and leather goods, where we create seasonal collections of our luxury footwear. We also have our tech side, where we are able to allow people to customize our entire collection completely on our website. We started in 2014. We've been out to the public for about six years now. It started with my background as a fashion designer working for multiple smaller brands, and I kind of went out on my own, where I wanted to continue the journey from my family history. My father was an entrepreneur. He owned small footwear specialty shops in the Middle East, and I always wanted to continue that journey, but bring a more modern approach to the new, modern shopper. So I took this traditional idea of handmade, luxury footwear and my design background, and I incorporated it into a modern, tech version to create a new shopping experience. I believe everyone deserves a unique, Bespoke experience, and I want to bring that experience from the old days, where someone is able to go to a tailor shop and get a fully customized wardrobe. I want to bring that experience completely online and have it accessible for everyone.I believe there is huge potential in Dearborn and Detroit. I believe it is still a rising market, compared to other markets, and there is a plethora of talent here, so I would really love to have my business established here to highlight the city and its talent, hire locally, and really show the world this town has so much more to offer than anybody has ever thought. The diversity here, the unique backgrounds and the unique talents need to be exposed a lot more. And this is really part of what inspired me to stay here, to build it here, and to hopefully continue in the future.To be honest, it mostly has been bootstrapped by myself. I started from life savings to really get the business going. And then, as I went along, a lot of it has been self-funded from basically just constantly reinvesting profits back into the business to grow it. Other than that, it's been a bit of a challenge to raise more capital from third parties, but I'm looking this year to be a lot more aggressive about it to really expand the business. I'm starting to get a lot more support, and ACCESS (Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services) is one of the local organizations that's given me all these smaller connections I didn't know about, whether it has to do with traditional banking or other programs that are available in Detroit and surrounding areas. So, it's been mainly just networking, and working with local organizations that have the information to help me take the business to the next step.My current business goal would be to first test the market to see if it makes sense for us to open our first location and flagship store in downtown Detroit. Beyond that, I want to continue expanding it into a franchise, into multiple different cities here in the US, and then hopefully internationally. I would say for our business, part of the expansion includes our product line. Right now, we're a specialty footwear leather goods brand. The next step we're going to take is offering a new line of custom-made suiting. We want to be established as the one-stop shop for a modern, custom-made brand, where you're able to do the complete experience online, a technology-based experience, whether its incorporating 3D scanning sizing or using your mobile device to get your sizing.Number one is capital. I believe we have, at this point, a pretty established business and established model. The next step is finding capital, whether it's through an investment or business loans or local programs. Next, would be finding the right space, and from there we continue to grow with the talent to strengthen the business infrastructure. I need the right talent, whether it has to do with marketing, operations or the design process.It would be dependent on the resource. If they're able to directly help with capital, then obviously that would be the number one thing that I need. If it is a resource that helps me prepare to raise capital, that would be something else I would love to have to help review and tweak my current business plan to present to investors, including traditional banks or local programs, and ensure that everything that I have is ready to approach sources of funding.Sure, I have two. One has been ACCESS. Theyve been a good resource for me because they have enabled me to connect with local entrepreneurs, and find out about more programs. The second would be Inner City Capital Connections . This program has been good for me because it's opening me up to additional programs and resources for funding. They also have educational programs and events that I have attended to refresh some of the small business education I have received.I would say trying to keep the business steady and sustainable, while still growing in a fluctuating market. Of course, COVID was a hit for us, trying to keep the business sustained with things like operational costs. The positive side of it was there was more online exposure. Funding would be the biggest challenge. And then, trying to find local resources. Before it was a lot more challenging, in comparison to now, to find resources needed to support a small business like funding. In terms of starting it, it was challenging just finding the information online for many of the basic things that are needed for a small business, including registration and creating an Ein number. I did not have experience in those resources, so I had to do a lot of research and self-learning.In Dearborn, I would definitely say ACCESS. They have been a good resource for me, so I could see them being a good resource for somebody who's just starting out. Outside of the city, from my experience, TechTown was a good resource. They have several programs that help, whether youre just starting or you're a little bit more advanced.I think the number one challenge is always finding capital, whether if you're just starting out or you're already an existing small business, but you're trying to stay sustainable outside of the traditional routes such as a bank. I also think there's a disconnect between the city administration. I don't think there's full support for every kind of small business. I think there's a lot more support for traditional businesses, and I don't think it's moving the same way the market is moving with a lot of new types of companies, especially online-based. I think they're falling behind. They have an older system, and they need to really catch up with a lot of the entrepreneurs and small businesses that need the support. And then I would say property or land and location is a bit challenging, also, because there are so many small businesses here, and rent is fairly high in a prime location because many times it's taken by well-established businesses. It's specific kinds of businesses that have been established here that do well in comparison to newer businesses, especially retail, for example.
This is a look at the interior of a two-person ModPod modular housing unit.

This is a look at the interior of a two-person ModPod modular housing unit.

Winter is setting in. The construction season is winding down. And no site has been found for the development of Kalamazoos much-anticipated POD Community.That community of small shelters, with POD standing for Place of Dignity, is expected to provide a safe and transitional place for the many unhoused members of the Kalamazoo community. But Housing Resources Inc. says the temporary housing units that it acquired in 2021 will not be assembled and made available for use this cold season.That path forward will require many weeks of work and review, HRI announced in a prepared statement Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. Unfortunately, were reaching the end of the construction season. This means, sadly, the POD units will not be assembled and running before winter.Housing Resources Inc., which is spearheading the development, acknowledged that the need for safe housing for unhoused people is huge. And said it is important that this be done in the right way for everyone involved.Michelle Davis, executive director of HRI, announced plans in October of 2021 to establish a community to replace the make-shift encampments of tents, wooden pallets, and cardboard boxes that had sprung up near downtown Kalamazoo. Called A Kzoo POD Community: A Place of Dignity, the new site would use small one- and two-person modular housing units that can be heated in the winter and cooled in the summer. The site is to have separate restrooms and showers, trash collection and pickup service, and 24/7 onsite staff and security to keep clients safe and help them develop pathways to stable housing, according to HRI.Although efforts were not successful Tuesday to reach Davis for comment, her organization stated that it has evaluated many locations in Kalamazoo County where this POD Community could be placed, but so far, none proved feasible.HRI spent about $1 million to purchase 50 modular housing units, which are 8 by 8 by 8 and 16' by 8' by 8'. Called ModPods, they are fire-resistant with aluminum framing, insulated walls, and an aluminum composite exterior. They have been in storage since the first potential location, the vacant former Michigan Department of Human Services property at 322 E. Stockbridge Ave., was ruled out.Kalamazoo Mayor David Anderson says he is disappointed that the POD community will take more time to realize. He says he knows a lot of things need to happen, and agreements need to be made before HRI can announce that the project is moving ahead.This is development, just like any development, he says, whether youre looking for a site to build a building or a site to put pods on. Its the same basic process. You need to see whats available and get site control while you work on other issues and that sort of thing.He says it is unwise to publicize the steps of that process until you have some sort of site control and until other in-house work is done.At the same time, Anderson, who is also director of Housing and Facilities for Integrated Services of Kalamazoo, says he knows the number of unhoused people is growing. Our outreach team is seeing a lot of new faces, he says.In its announcement, HRI says, The need is huge. It says more people are experiencing homelessness and housing shortages are at historic levels. During the first half of 2023, it worked with 216 unsheltered people. Of those, more than half were women, and only 45 were in a program that provided them with temporary shelter or housing. Others were waiting for help.HRI praised the leadership of the Kalamazoo City Commission, members of the Kalamazoo City staff, and others in updating and extending the citys Emergency Housing Ordinance. Among other things, it is expected to allow developers to work with the city to create temporary housing for those in need.The Ordinance, which was set to expire in December of this year, was extended for five years and one additional winter. It allows for the development of temporary housing in the city and it sets the parameters for its development. Housing providers are responsible for proposing locations, applying for permits, and hosting a public informational meeting before they start the project.Finding a suitable location to develop housing that serves the needs of unhoused people -- who are often located near the downtown -- is not an easy task.Anderson says he would like to see a more county-wide approach to helping the unhoused, one that recognizes there are unhoused people living in many outlying communities.In the meantime, he says, I think the city, to the best of its ability, is trying to be a good partner when it comes to making the opportunities available for folks.He praised HRI for stepping up to take advantage of the opportunity.
Dr. Grace Lubwama greets those who attended the KZCF Partner Appreciation event in September.

Dr. Grace Lubwama at a Kalamazoo community Foundation staff meeting.

Dr. Grace Lubwama greets those who attended the KZCF Partner Appreciation event in September.

Dr. Grace Lubwama was the YWCA Kalamazoo CEO for 9 years before assuming the Kalamazoo Community Foundation position.

This story is part of Southwest Michigan's Second Wave's On the Ground Kalamazoo series The Kalamazoo area has a strong history of philanthropy, a lot of resources, and many people willing to give, says Dr. Grace Lubwama.We are one of the communities probably around the country that is resource-full, says the new president and chief executive officer of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation.Through any number of hard-working organizations, Kalamazoo County residents have struggled to address a wide range of issues including racism, economic disparities, housing instability, educational needs, social injustice, infant mortality, and homelessness. Ground has been made, but those problems persist and continue to be challenges.I think where we have fallen short is we have failed to connect the resources to address the needs that are happening in this community in a very authentic way, and really align resources to a true strategy, says Lubwama, who became the executive leader of the foundation in July after being selected for that role in March.Ninety days into her new position Lubwama hopes to help the foundation lead the way to more positive change by re-envisioning what the community foundation looks like, and by helping it become a leader in aligning resources that address peoples needs.I think what weve tried hasnt worked, Lubwama says, speaking of gaps in educational achievement between African Americans and Whites, disparities in infant mortality rates, and other problems. So we have to continue re-thinking and really being innovative and really lifting ourselves  looking at the broader community and looking at what is happening especially as we are working through developing strategies.Within the philanthropic world, that means investing in organizations and efforts that have a collaborative strategy, she says, asking, Have we had an opportunity to collectively align what that strategy is and align it with an investment?If the foundation identifies a collaborative effort to end homelessness, for instance, it may look to align its investments with those of other charitable organizations to support a strategy that helps multiple organizations that are attacking the problem.She says she thinks what is happening now is that organizations hear from a committee and allocate whatever resources they have to an issue. But that does not necessarily demonstrate a wider, collaborative understanding of an issue, and it does not assess what the return on investment will be.The community foundation model is about really cultivating resources in this community to assure that those resources are distributed to address the needs in this community, says Lubwama. And the other thing that we do is we are cultivating relationships and resources. We want to invest in this community.She says the Kalamazoo Community Foundation Board of Trustees has asked her to clarify the role of the foundation so anyone can understand it. And my first 90 days have really been spent doing that, she says.Our mission is very, very clear, Lubwama says. It is about mobilizing people, resources, and expertise to advance racial, social, and economic justice. But how do we do that?She has been working with the foundations 45-member staff and its 10-member board to establish the organizations identity. And she is working to create a 10-year strategic plan for the organization by early next year. The foundation is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025.With assets of about $624 million, the foundation invested $5.5 million last year in Kalamazoo County from its discretionary funds and it awarded more than twice that amount to other designated and donor-advised funds, including scholarships, and specialized fields of interest. In 2022 it awarded a total of $20 million to local organizations, projects, and individuals.Lubwama says she would like to grow the number of unrestricted contributions that can be used at the foundations discretion, to address critical needs in the community.Foundation grants and investments have been focused on supporting education, economic development, increased housing opportunities, efforts to combat homelessness, family/youth development, and other efforts to create a more thriving community. The foundation works through other front-line organizations to accomplish those goals.It supports education, for instance, by providing grants to organizations like the Kalamazoo Literacy Council , which supports individuals who want to learn or improve their reading skills. It supports economic growth by providing grants to entrepreneurs who want to start businesses but lack the resources. In the housing sector, it was an investor in developments such as The Lodge House , the conversion of a former motel into apartments for unhoused people. And it was an investor in the development of The Creamery , a former Edison Neighborhood industrial property that was converted into affordable housing, child care, and commercial space.In my world, it is not complicated, Lubwama says. Its about cultivating resources. Its about growing those resources, growing our endowment so that the community foundation is available to support the needs of this community in perpetuity.She wants the foundation to continue to be seen as a partner of the many front-line nonprofit organizations working to effect change, and she wants to assure smaller communities in Kalamazoo County that the foundation is a resource for them. She also wants to encourage organizations and residents to consider donating.I believe that (for) every resident who loves the Kalamazoo community and has a desire to leave a legacy, were their partner in leaving a legacy in this community, Lubwama says. It could be $10, $1 (or) whatever it is that is sacrificial for any resident to leave a legacy. We are their partner, the community foundation.She says philanthropy doesnt mean a person has to have a lot of money. But once you have a heart of charity, and care about this community, and want to see this community thrive, the community foundation is your partner on that journey, she says.Lubwama has a Bachelors degree in Industrial Art and Design from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, and a Masters in Public Health from the Boston University School of Public Health. She has a doctorate in Policy Planning and Development from the University of Southern California. She has two young sons.Credited with being a strategic thinker and results-driven executive, she has worked since February 2014 as CEO of YWCA Kalamazoo. In that role, she has been praised for developing the first comprehensive human trafficking program in the state of Michigan, for founding Cradle Kalamazoo, an initiative focused on reducing Black infant mortality in Kalamazoo County, and for establishing the state's only comprehensive 24-hour early childhood center, located inside The Creamery development in Portage Street in Kalamazoo.Comparing her new role with her work at YWCA Kalamazoo, she chuckled at the idea of how different their missions are, although they are located across the street from one another (the YWCA Kalamazoo at 353 E. Michigan Ave. and the community foundation at 402 E. Michigan Ave.). She says the two organizations have worked closely on programs and are passionate about helping to make Kalamazoo a great place to live. The YWCA Kalamazoo has specific focuses on working to help victims of abuse, maternal/infant health, and empowering women, however. For the community foundation, my role is broader, Lubwama says.I oversee all the issues that are impacting the community and how philanthropy can play a really vital role in assuring that we meet the needs of this community, she says, and assuring that we lift up the voices of the most vulnerable community members.She wants the foundation to continue to be a leader in philanthropy and cultivating resources to address community-wide needs, including the need for more housing, housing stability, infant mortality, education, and affordable child care.Lubwama says, I think a lot of the issues that we are going to continue championing are not going to be new. But how we align with those issues (will be).  Well just continue to be a voice on the issues that this community is facing.
Central African Republic: Briefing and Consultations

Tomorrow morning (26 October), the Security Council will hold an open briefing and closed consultations on the situation in the Central African Republic (CAR). The anticipated briefer is Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the CAR and head of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) Valentine Rugwabiza. Sylvie Baipo Temon, the CARs Minister for Foreign Affairs, Francophonie and Central Africans Abroad, is expected to represent her country at the meeting.

Rugwabiza is expected to describe the latest developments in the CAR peace process based on the Secretary-Generals most recent report on MINUSCA, which was circulated to Council members on 14 October and covers developments since 15 June (S/2023/769). She may refer to the constitutional referendum held in the CAR on 30 July and the subsequent promulgation of a new constitution on 30 August. The Secretary-Generals report notes that opposition parties, civil society, and religious organisations have questioned the legitimacy of the referendum and criticised the content of the new constitution. Among other matters, the constitution ended presidential term limits, paving the way for CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera to extend his tenure for a third term. Rugwabiza is likely to mention that MINUSCA did not provide support to the holding of the referendum, as this matter is not part of the missions mandate.

The mission is expected to assist the CAR authorities in organising local elections, pursuant to resolution 2659 of 14 November 2022, which renewed MINUSCAs mandate. While preparations for local elections were put on hold because of the constitutional referendum, the government resumed preparations for the elections in September, with the first round of local elections now scheduled for 13 October 2024 and the second round for 26 January 2025, according to the Secretary-Generals report. The budget shortfall in organising local elections remains a challenge, however. The CAR government has committed to providing some financial support for local elections, which bilateral and international partners had apparently been reluctant to do because of concerns that the money might be used to organise the recent constitutional referendum.

At tomorrows meeting, Rugwabiza is likely to describe ongoing efforts to promote the peace process, particularly local-level engagements to facilitate implementation of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the CAR. She may mention her visit to various regions in the country together with CAR Prime Minister Felix Moloua to encourage active local participation in the peace process, including the involvement of women and youth in local peace and reconciliation committees and other local-level mechanisms for conflict prevention and mediation. On 23 October, the CAR government convened in Bangui a strategic review meeting to assess the 2019 agreements implementation, which brought together the agreements guarantor institutions as well as other bilateral, regional, and international partners. According to a communique issued at the meetings conclusion, the participants, among other matters, welcomed the dissolution of nine of the 14 armed groups signatory to the agreement and noted the progress in the disarmament and demobilisation of 4,884 ex-combatants, 1,112 of whom have been integrated into the defence and security forces, as well as the reintegration of 3,081 ex-combatants.

Rugwabiza might highlight MINUSCAs continued support to the CAR in expanding state authority and facilitating the delivery of basic services in stabilised areas through the mobilisation of the UN Country Team and other partners. She may also mention the missions support to the implementation of disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation process (DDRR) and to the delivery of humanitarian assistance. The Secretary-Generals report describes the effects of the regional security dynamics, noting in this regard the influx of refugees and returnees to the CAR from Chad and Sudan, which has exacerbated the humanitarian situation. According to OCHA, more than 37,000 people from Chad and more than 20,000 people from Sudan, mostly women and children, have crossed into the CAR recently.

The security situation in the CAR remained volatile, according to the Secretary-Generals report, particularly in the eastern part of the country, where there is limited government security presence and armed groups target minority communities, causing massive displacement. The situation has been complicated by the launching of operations by other security personnela phrase used by the UN to refer to the Wagner Group, a Russian private security companyand their proxies against the main armed groups affiliated with the leading rebel coalition known as the Coalition des patriotes pour le changement (CPC). Rugwabiza may elaborate on MINUSCAs continued efforts to enhance its robust posture to reduce the activities of armed groups and on the missions joint patrols with the CAR armed forces (FACA) to protect civilians.

Rugwabiza might also reference issues relating to human rights in her briefing. The Secretary-Generals report notes the development of a national human rights policy, the creation of the parliamentary network for human rights, and the appointment of a human rights focal point for FACA and the gendarmerie as encouraging steps. At tomorrows meeting, while Council members may welcome these developments, several are likely to express concern that different state and non-state actors in the CAR continue committing human rights violations and abuses. The period covered by the Secretary-Generals report saw a 17 percent increase in such violations and abuses compared with the previous reporting period. Armed groups were responsible for 32 percent of the violations, while state agents accounted for 51 percent of the documented cases. MINUSCA also recorded violations committed by other non-state armed actors, which account for 16 percent of the documented cases. Some Council members have been critical of the Wagner Groups presence in the country and its alleged involvement in human rights abuses. The US, in particular, continues to point to the CAR governments relationship with the Wagner Group as an obstacle to constructive engagement in restoring peace and stability in the country. Recent developments, including the reported direct supervision of the group by the Russian Ministry of Defence following the apparent death of its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in August, may draw particular attention at tomorrows meeting.

Council members are expected soon to begin negotiating the renewal of MINUSCAs mandate, which expires on 15 November. At tomorrows meeting, Temon is likely to emphasise the importance of MINUSCAs support to the expansion of state authority, which is highlighted in the Secretary-Generals report. She may also reiterate her governments request for a strategic review of the mission. In resolution 2659, the Council expressed its intention to request an independent strategic review of MINUSCA to assess the challenges to peace and security in the CAR and the constraints facing the missions operations. It has yet to request this review, however. (Five years have passed since the latest strategic review of MINUSCA.)

It seems that Council members appreciate Rugwabizas efforts to resolve difficult issues with the host country, including the implementation of the status of forces agreement (SOFA), which was a controversial matter during the negotiations on MINUSCAs mandate renewal last year. Regarding the political situation, Council members may call on the CAR government to engage in dialogue with opposition parties and civil society representatives to address their concerns and build the necessary trust for holding local elections next year. Some Council members are likely to continue stressing the need to ensure accountability and justice. The 16 October decision by the International Criminal Court (ICC) to withdraw charges against former CAR government minister Maxime Jeoffroy Eli Mokom Gawaka, citing a lack of evidence and available witnesses, may draw the attention of these members. Gawaka was accused of coordinating operations of the anti-Balaka, a mainly Christian group that fought against the predominantly Muslim Seleka rebel group during the CAR civil war.

Several Council members remain concerned by the illegal exploitation of natural resources, which continues to fuel the conflict in the CAR. The most recent report of the Panel of Experts assisting the 2127 CAR Sanctions Committee, which was submitted on 18 May, described fighting for control of gold mining sites involving the FACA, the Wagner Group, and armed groups. Russia has apparently put a hold on the appointment of the panels experts following the renewal of the panels mandate in July. This issue may complicate the upcoming negotiations on MINUSCAs mandate renewal, although some Council members might argue that it should be raised in July 2024, when the panels mandate is up for renewal, rather than during the negotiations on the missions mandate.
The APEC Test

As San Francisco prepares to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperations Economic Leaders Week and CEO Summit Nov. 1117, Rodney Fong, president and CEO of the Citys Chamber of Commerce, cant help but think about San Franciscos last Pan-Pacific moment.

It came just a few short years after the 1906 earthquake reduced the City to ash and rubble. But from the ruins rose an entirely new town  one that boasted a 636-acre fairground along the bay, including the Palace of Fine Arts.

There were pavilions around energy, said Fong of the Panama-Pacific International Exhibition. There were pavilions around cars and the technology of cars.

The exposition was held to celebrate the completion of the Panama Canal, but it also marked the ascendance of the United States to the world stage  and San Francisco as a gateway to the Pan-Pacific economy.

This month, San Francisco is once again tasked with showcasing itself as a hub for technology, sustainability and innovation as it welcomes APEC, a week-long summit that will bring together dozens of foreign dignitaries, business leaders and heads of state  including President Joseph Biden  for workshops, fireside chats and diplomacy.

But now, as in 1915, San Francisco faces its share of challenges as it works to reinvent itself after the pandemic emptied its downtown, shuttered many of its businesses, and exacerbated the Citys homelessness and drug addiction crises.

Still, those in the business and leadership communities remain unfazed. When it comes to something like this, San Francisco does know how to do it well and steps up to the occasion, San Francisco Chief of Protocol Maryam Muduroglu said. The problems we have are unavoidable. Most urban cities have them. So its just ensuring we navigate them as best we can, she adds.

In fact, Fong said, APEC is precisely what San Francisco needs to reassert itself on the world stage.

Even before it was announced it was going to be in San Francisco, we as a chamber concluded that postpandemic, it was very much in need of an international exposition, he said. We asked ourselves, whats the modern version of that? And really, APEC is it.

Formally, APEC is an annual gathering of 21 member economies representing nearly 40 percent of the global population, 50 percent of global trade and more than 60 percent of U.S. exports, according to Priya David Clemens, the press liaison for the event.

This is the most significant gathering of world leaders since 1945 in San Francisco, Clemens said, referring to the founding of the United Nations in the City eight decades ago. And at that point, when members gathered for the UN charter, they sent their delegates, not their heads of state. So this is different. This is special.

This years themes center on building an innovative, resilient, sustainable and inclusive future  themes that leaders say San Francisco is already modeling for the world. Coincidentally, it is exactly all the things we represent as a city, says Muduroglu. San Francisco has long billed itself as a welcoming, green-minded city  a place where composting is second nature, veganism is mainstream and autonomous vehicles roam the streets.

Were a city of outsiders, said Vas Kiniris, director of NextSF, an agency that promotes public-private partnerships. From the 49ers to the beatniks to the hippies, the LGBTQ community, the nerds  they were given the opportunity, but they also fought hard to create empires here, and theyre respected across the world.

But with a gathering of such high-profile visitors comes a complicated web of logistical planning and security measures, overseen by the Secret Service, the State Department, and the White House. They will be supported by various city departments, including the Department of Emergency Management and SFPD.

Though San Francisco has hosted major events, including the United States Conference of Mayors in 2015, Super Bowl 50 and the Global Climate Action Summit, nothing has tested its readiness for the spotlight quite like APEC.

Someone described it to me as like an inauguration, Davos and a G7 all wrapped into one, said Mary Ellen Carroll, executive director of the Department of Emergency Management. There is no comparable event, certainly, that any of us in our lifetime have been part of here and that the city has hosted.

Security will be at an all-time high, and many downtown streets will be closed around Moscone Centers core. But that doesnt mean the department can pool all its resources to service APEC alone.

911 still has to answer phone calls for people who are going to still have heart attacks and strokes and broken bones and things like that, Carroll said. Were going to be ready.

San Francisco needed to raise $20 million to host the conference, a goal it surpassed in early October. The largest donor was the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, a Native American tribe based in Rohnert Park that contributed $4.65 million. Ripple, an AI company headquartered in San Francisco, was second with $2 million in donations. Other notable top sponsors include Apple, Kaiser Permanente, Salesforce, Sutter Health and Visa, which each contributed $1 million.

For everyday San Franciscans, APEC might also represent a nightmare of snarled traffic, bus detours and blocked roads. But Muduroglu hopes the longer-term gains will mollify the short-term pain. This one week in San Francisco is estimated to generate nearly $37 million in economic benefit to the City. And beyond the immediate boost, leaders hope the forum can reinvigorate tourism and attract new businesses to a beleaguered downtown.

This can go beyond the week of APEC, Muduroglu said. This is an opportunity for San Francisco to shine on this global stage and for us to figure out how we can make this part of the rejuvenation of San Francisco.

The Panama-Pacific International Exhibition was a statement to the nation  and the world  that San Francisco was back. This month, APEC will test whether thats still true. 
Siemens Energy tanked on Thursday after confirming it is in talks with the German government about potential state guarantees to shore up its balance sheet.

Responding to press speculation, Siemens said its 2023 results are expected to be fully in line with guidance.

It said the former gas and power businesses are expected to continue their "excellent" performance in fiscal year 2024 and are on track to achieve mid-term targets. Meanwhile, the wind business - Siemens Gamesa - is working through quality issues and addressing the offshore ramp-up challenges as announced in the third-quarter results.

As Siemens Gamesa is for the time being not concluding new contracts for certain onshore platforms and is applying strict selectivity in the offshore business, order intake and revenue are expected to be lower than market expectations for fiscal year 2024, and net losses and cash outflow are expected to be higher than market forecasts," it said.

"The strong growth in order intake, particularly in the former gas and power business areas, leads to a rising need of guarantees for long-term projects. Considering this requirement, the Executive Board is evaluating various measures to strengthen the balance sheet of Siemens Energy and is in preliminary talks with different stakeholders, including banking partners and the German government, to ensure access to an increasing volume of guarantees necessary to facilitate the anticipated strong growth."

Siemens Energy said its budgeting process is ongoing and no decisions or specific financing measures have been taken with regards to the annual budget for 2024.

At 1100 BST, the shares were down 31% at 7.25, having tumbled earlier after Der Spiegel reported that the companys chief executive, Christian Bruch, was negotiating with the federal government for several billion euros in guarantees.
Soldiers and volunteers on Thursday were battling a blaze on Lebanon's southern border caused by Israeli bombing overnight, local officials said, as Israel and Hezbollah exchange near-daily cross-border fire.

Since Israel began its relentless bombardment on the Gaza Strip and its indiscriminate killing of thousands of Palestinian civilians. Lebanon's southern border has seen tit-for-tat exchanges between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah, an ally of Gaza-based militant group Hamas.

Mayor of the border village of Alma al-Shaab, Jean Ghafari, said fire broke out after Israeli bombing late Wednesday.

"The blaze reached the edges of the village after midnight" and is still burning, he told AFP, adding that it "has come close to houses".

Security forces, civil defence personnel, United Nations peacekeepers and volunteers were battling the blaze but "have been unable to completely control it because of strong winds", Ghafari added.

The municipality said some 70 percent of the village's population had fled due to Israeli attacks.

An AFP photographer saw fire near houses on the outskirts of Alma al-Shaab and burnt olive trees, with the blaze mainly concentrated between the village and the coastal city of Naqura.

"Overnight (Israeli) bombing with phosphorus led to the fire, which has affected a broad forested area and spread due to the high winds," Naqura mayor Abbas Awada told AFP in a statement.

In recent weeks, Lebanon's official National News Agency and Lebanese paramedics have reported fires and injuries due to white phosphorus, while Human Rights Watch has accused Israel of using the incendiary weapon in the Gaza Strip, and in southern Lebanon.

Israel has denied the allegations.

Parliament speaker Nabih Berri, whose party is allied with Hezbollah, on Thursday condemned Israel's use of "phosphorus bombs" along Lebanon's border and blamed "the international community" for the blazes, alluding to Western military support for Israel.

Israel has carried out a grisly war on the Gaza Strip where at least 7,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli attacks, mainly civilians, according to Palestinian health ministry figures. More than 2,900 children, 1,700 women and around 400 elderly were killed in the attacks, with at least 19,000 wounded.

This comes after an October 7 Hamas attack that saw militants kill at least 1,400 people, according to Israeli officials.

Exchanges of fire across the Lebanon-Israel border have since killed at least 57 people in Lebanon, according to an AFP tally, mostly Hezbollah combatants but also four civilians, including Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah.

Four people have been killed on the Israeli side, including one civilian.

Phosphorus, a substance that catches fire on contact with the air, is used to create smokescreens to hide troop movements, illuminate the battlefield or destroy buildings by fire.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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The former NatWest chief executive breached data protection laws when she spoke to a BBC journalist about the planned closure of Nigel Farages bank accounts, the UKs information watchdog has ruled. An Information Commissioners Office (ICO) report seen by the Guardian said that Alison Rose broke rules on two counts: first by revealing that Farage had a banking relationship with its private bank, Coutts; and secondly by providing misleading information that led the BBC to believe the bank was closing his accounts for purely commercial reasons, linked to his wealth.  Guardian

Shells new chief executive is poised to cut hundreds of jobs from the oil giants low-carbon division as part a plan to boost the companys profits. Wael Sawan plans to shrink the number of staff working on low-carbon solutions by around 200 next year, after vowing to shift Shells focus towards high-profit oil projects and expanding its gas business when he became chief executive in January.  Guardian

Sovereign wealth funds and local councils are among a group of investors plotting a 100m lawsuit against Boohoo after allegations of modern slavery wiped more than 1bn from the companys value. The fast fashion retailer is being targeted by City lawyers seeking compensation for shareholders who suffered losses after allegations of forced labour in Boohoos factories came to light in 2020.  Telegraph

Qatar has backed a 400m refinancing of struggling Canary Wharf in its first significant UK deal since the terror attacks on Israel sparked criticism of its links to Hamas. Canary Wharf Group (CWG) secured hundreds of millions of pounds in extra financing from Qatars sovereign wealth fund and its Canadian co-owner on Wednesday as the landlord struggles with high vacancy rates.  Telegraph

Sam Bankman-Fried plans to testify at his criminal fraud trial after his closest associates blamed the former billionaire for the collapse last November of his FTX cryptocurrency exchange. In a telephone conference on Wednesday with Lewis Kaplan, the judge who is overseeing the case in a federal court in Manhattan, Mark Cohen, Bankman-Frieds lawyer, said the defence planned to call three other witnesses to testify briefly after prosecutors finished presenting their case. Our client is also going to be testifying, he said.  The Times
UK opposition leader Keir Starmer is facing increasing pressure over his stance on the Israeli war on Gaza, testing the leadership determination of the favourite to become UK's next prime minister.

The 61-year-old is battling to reduce tensions within Labour's ranks over remarks he made about the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip and his ongoing refusal to call for a ceasefire.

The war has reignited old divisions in the centre-left party, which Starmer had been credited with unifying, as it bids to return to power in a general election expected next year.

On Monday, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced that Britain was sending an additional 20 million of aid to help civilians in Gaza affected by the war, bringing the total amount, since the start of conflict, to 30 million after 10 million was made available last week.

Since the war broke out on 7 October, 24/7 Israeli airstrikes on the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip killed more than 7,000 Palestinians and injured more than 17,000 people mostly from women and children.

Moreover, Israeli airstrikes and bombardment also destroyed or seriously damaged hundreds of homes, leaving more than one million Palestinians without shelter.

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HMD Global, the manufacturer of Nokia devices, has announced plans to launch smartphones under its own brand in the first half of 2024. The company is considering launching these HMD-branded devices first in India, which is a priority market for them. Ravi Kunwar, Vice President of India and APAC at HMD Global, has emphasized the importance of India as a critical market for the success of HMD-branded devices, including smartphones. He further stated that the company may adopt an "India-first" approach for these devices.

Kunwar said, HMD will manufacture all new brand handsets in India and may export them to other markets as well. The Indian government is encouraging local and affiliated entities to promote the entire manufacturing ecosystem, which is where the India opportunity comes in. India has the potential to produce significant supply chain initiatives and product design initiatives. The HMD-branded smartphone portfolio will be priced across different segments, and will target different consumer segments than the Nokia-branded portfolio.

HMD is collaborating with Foxconn, Dixon and Lava to manufacture smartphones and feature phones in India under the Nokia brand. The company has already started exporting its feature phones to African markets. According to the CEO of HMD, the feature phone market is expected to grow significantly in 2023, making it a watershed year for the market. HMD is also growing its share in the overall market. To boost sales of its Nokia smartphones, HMD has introduced a financing program called HMD Easy Pay in partnership with DMI Finance. The company anticipates that this new financing program will account for 25-30% of new smartphone sales. The program covers several Nokia smartphone models, including the Nokia G42. Xiaomi has also launched a digital loan disbursal program called Xiaomi Easy Finance (XEF) to drive sales of its smartphones, and market leader Samsung has its own financing scheme.
In less than a decade, TULA, an enterprise co-founded by Dr. Roshini Rajapaksa and Vivek Nasta, has transformed itself into a symbol of balance and success, propelling its position in the billion-dollar beauty segment. But recently, the enterprise has been in news for all the wrong reasons involving Dr. Roshini Rajapaksa, the charismatic brand ambassador of TULA Skincare; Vivek Nasta, the co-founder and former partner of Dr. Rajapaksa; and Manish Chopra, the enigmatic hedge fund titan.

TULA Skincare, born from a fortuitous conversation between Daniel Reich and the formidable e-commerce giant, QVC, had thrived on the ingenious alliance of beauty and science. Ken Landis, a co-founder of Bobbi Brown cosmetics, had joined forces with Reich, and their vision birthed a new line of skincare products that blended probiotics and superfoods, opening a new avenue in the beauty industry.

Dr. Rajapaksa's pivotal role as TULA's brand ambassador was undeniable. With her medical expertise and innate charisma, she struck right at the core of the middle-class American womens concern, and offered the promise of flawless skin. Capitalizing on the direct-to-consumer model championed by QVC, the TULA brand soared to unparalleled heights, creating a niche for itself in the already crowded beauty segment. The acquisition of TULA by Procter and Gamble in 2022, valued at nearly $700 million, was a testament to its staggering success. Dr. Rajapaksa, the torchbearer of the brand, retained her position as the face of TULA, now a part of a global conglomerate.

Yet, behind the veneer of prosperity and unity, a storm brewed. A lawsuit, out in public, has challenged the very foundations of TULA's history and ownership. Nasta, who had once been Dr. Rajapaksa's partner in both business and love, now alleges to have been sidetracked by the very person he had trusted. Central to Nasta's accusations is the purported scheme orchestrated by Dr. Rajapaksa to thwart his acquisition of additional shares. She is alleged to have enlisted the assistance of Manish Chopra, a notable figure in the hedge fund industry and philanthropy, who also happens to be her boyfriend. Chopra's covert involvement in the matter adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the unfolding narrative.

Though the matter is still sub-judice, the emerging news has raised many questions. Had Dr. Rajapaksa, once the epitome of integrity, succumbed to the lure of Manish Chopra? Are Nasta's claims those of a scorned lover or an astute businessman, wronged by the person he had loved and trusted? And what hidden motives lay behind Chopra's enigmatic involvement?

While TULA's journey initially commenced as a testament to entrepreneurial triumph, it has now evolved into a compelling narrative of corporate dispute and personal relationships, raising questions about the control and future of this billion-dollar beauty empire. The ultimate resolution, of course, rests within the realm of the legal process, ensuring that justice prevails and the truth is revealed.

For more information visit:https://twitter.com/drroshiniraj
The Entrepreneurship Cell of IIT Bombay is gearing up to host its prestigious business model competition, Eureka, for the 26th time in 2023. Eureka 2023 is a unique opportunity for young startup founders and leaders to learn, network, and receive one-on-one mentoring on the critical aspects of building a scalable business. This event is designed for early-stage entrepreneurs, particularly those in the ideation phase, who seek one-on-one mentoring to develop their go-to-market strategy.

Eureka Axis Bank presents 2023, co-presented by WestBridge Capital, in association with Amara Raja ACT, Maruti Suzuki as the Innovation Partner, Powered by Gulf Islamic Investments, Healthcare Partner Emil Pharma, Venture Partner Venture Catalysts and Gold Partner Shiru Startup Cafe. The Entrepreneurship Cell of IIT Bombay, Asia's largest student-run entrepreneurship body, has received patronage from UNESCO, Make in India, Startup India, and Digital India for promoting entrepreneurship. It has been a link between various components of the startup ecosystem for the past 25 years. With over 15,000 entries last year, young entrepreneurs and student-led startups will go through three extensive rounds spread across five months.

The winning startups will win prizes worth over USD 1.2 lakh, like AWS credits and free subscriptions to Canva, GitHub, Zendesk, Social Pilot and many more. The investor jury will also be able to provide additional funding to the featured startups. The best student startup in Eureka Will get an opportunity to secure a sponsored trip to Princeton University and direct qualification in the finals of Tiger Launch, The prestigious entrepreneurship competition conducted in the USA.

The young entrepreneurs and co-founders will go through three extensive rounds spread across five months. The first round will bring on-stage mentors to help founders navigate the process of building a sound business model with the basics of building a business model canvas. The previous edition saw several industry leaders stepping in as mentors. They included Angel Network's Kanchi Daiya, StartupBay's Amit Jain, Tomorrow Capital's Piyush Surana, and 3i Zone's Pradeep Rathi.
Turbostart, a global startup accelerator and fund that primarily supports technology-driven ventures, has announced the launch of its global cohort. The program is open to early-stage startups worldwide, and it provides an opportunity to secure funding of up to $1 million. Turbostart operates in key regions, including India, the USA, MEA, and Singapore, and it is sector-agnostic. The initiative not only offers financial support but also facilitates access to international markets and business acceleration services for the selected startups.

Turbostart differentiates itself from traditional accelerators and funds by providing customized and long-term support that aligns with the unique requirements of each startup. As a dedicated partner to its investee startups, Turbostart leverages its extensive network and diverse talents to help accelerate their journeys. This collaborative approach empowers startups to quickly validate their concepts, expand their operations, and benefit from strategic interventions, fostering rapid and sustainable growth.

Turbostart has successfully completed four rounds of funding over the past four years, raising a total of $50 million. From an impressive pool of over 6,000 applications representing 30+ countries and 15+ sectors, they have carefully chosen around 40 startups to work with. These startups are operating in various sectors including edtech, health tech, fintech, e-commerce, AI and ML, and renewables. The Founder and CEO of Turbostart, Ganesh Raju, is a firm believer that innovation knows no boundaries and that great businesses can emerge from anywhere in the world. Turbostart is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages promising startups to flourish. By providing essential resources, mentorship, guidance, and access to global markets, Turbostart aims to support visionary entrepreneurs from any part of the world in scaling their businesses effectively.

Turbostart has a tough selection process where startups from various global regions are invited to apply. The team carefully curates the top applications, and multiple evaluation rounds are conducted by the internal investment committee, followed by a final round with the global investment committee. After this process, comprehensive due diligence is carried out, which includes audits and analyses, ultimately leading to successful deals. Turbostart is committed to supporting startup growth and has a comprehensive ecosystem of seasoned investors, advisors, and six Centers of Excellence (COEs). Domain experts lead these COEs, which focus on key areas where startups require strategic and execution support.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Hes been named one of New York Comedy Festivals Comics to Watch in 2023, received endorsement from stand-up comedian Jo Koy, headlined sold-out shows, racked up millions of views on social media, and was called gorgeous by Pedro Pascal.

Nicky Paris has caught the worlds attention, and hell be damned if hes going to lose its gaze now.

I always knew that I would make it happen, Paris, fresh off a stretch of stand-up shows in Las Vegas, told the Advance/SILive.com. ... I think that in the last couple of years, Ive stepped into my own more. And I started from nothing. Nothing, you know?

The born-and-raised Staten Islander, 30, cut his teeth on what he estimated to be thousands of stages over the past 12 years. As a young comic eager to get his reps in, Paris would collect tickets at a New York City comedy club; instead of a paycheck, hed be rewarded with a few minutes of stage time for a few hours of work, two or three times a week. He was temporarily homeless five years ago, when he decided to move to Los Angeles to try to make it as a professional comedian. He took nearly every opportunity to showcase his chops, even if it meant an exhaustive schedule that would take him to far-away cities and towns for weeks at a time.

The grind hasnt stopped; Paris does stand up almost every night, and still travels extensively for gigs at premier comedy clubs across the country to perfect his punchlines.

With the roots of his dynamic career in stand-up, Nicky Paris has branched out to add off-the-cuff red-carpet interviews with celebrities at movie premieres and award shows to his repertoire. (Courtesy of Nicky Paris)

Every time I get on that stage, I want to be better than the last time I was, he insisted. Thats always the goal.

The journey hasnt been easy, and carries a bit more pressure now that hes quit his full-time job to be all-in on comedy, but Paris knows he can bet on his talent and his grit to carry him through.

I always figure it out, said Paris. My mom used to [tell me] when I was a little kid, Somebody could throw you off a building and youd find a way to land on your feet, said Paris, who still resides in Los Angeles. I really am one of those people. I just see every day as an opportunity that you can make something happen. ... But you have to have the drive to want it.

Well, the drive, and a solid sense of humor, even in the toughest of circumstances (like when Paris had his car stolen awhile back).

I just try and find the funny in everything. Life is funny, and were all going to die, so we have to laugh.

BONDING WITH AUDIENCE, CELEBRITIES

With the roots of his dynamic career in stand-up, Paris has branched out to add off-the-cuff red-carpet interviews with celebrities at movie premieres and award shows to his repertoire.

Among the celebs hes shared a laugh  and a vibe  with: Nicolas Cage, Kevin Bacon, Tiffany Haddish, Ike Barinholtz and the aforementioned Pascal. According to Paris, hell be interviewing more A-listers during the New York Comedy Festival in November on behalf of the festival.

Nicky Paris interviewing actress Tiffany Haddish during the premiere of 2022's "The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent." (Courtesy of Nicky Paris)

Paris humor  which is anchored by his Judge Judy-inspired moral compass and his tell-it-like-it-is Staten Island personality  is all about bonding with his audience, and having fun in the moment.

Laughter is universal, and I find a way to connect with people, he said. And thats whats so exciting to me about doing all these shows all over the country, I get to connect with so many different people. Im just grateful that Im getting to see the world, and making people laugh while Im doing it.

If you cant laugh in the moment, you can indulge the affable Paris in what he calls one of his favorite hobbies: complaining. But know hell always try to get a smile out of you.

We shame complaining, but for me, if you have something bad to say about somebody or something, sit next to me, said Paris. Tell me what youre upset about, Ill tell you what Im upset about, and well find a way to make it funny, and laugh.

SANDWICH IN HIS HONOR

Paris trajectory as an in-demand comic may be meteoric, but its not going to his head; hes still an Annadale kid at heart, after all.

Im so proud to be from Staten Island, and I will give someone the flying elbow if they have anything against it, he said, laughing. People dont understand how much I love Staten Island. ... Like, Im a New York bitch. I live in L.A. now, but I bring the Staten Island energy to L.A.

Hes grateful the feeling is mutual.

The Nicky Paris sandwich at Ronnie's on Forest in West Brighton. It's made with fried chicken cutlet, arugula, fresh mozzarella and vodka sauce. Its topped off with a mini rice ball, what Paris called his signature Staten Island favorite. (Courtesy of Jesse Rivelli)

To celebrate Paris several upcoming local shows, Ronnies on Forest in West Brighton has announced it will be adding to its menu the Nicky Paris sandwich, a hero with fried chicken cutlet, arugula, fresh mozzarella and vodka sauce. Its topped off with a mini rice ball, what Paris called his signature Staten Island favorite.

A lot of big talent has come out of Staten Island the last few years, making a name for themselves, and Nicky Paris is no exception, said Jesse Rivelli, owner of the sandwich shop at 432 Forest Ave., and a friend of Paris. I think hes a great comedian and an even better person. Every time he comes back to New York, people cant get tickets fast enough. We wanted to honor him with a sandwich for New York Comedy Festival, and show him some hometown love.

The sandwich is available for a limited time, from Nov. 3 to Nov. 12.

UPCOMING SHOWS

In addition to the New York Comedy Festivals Comics to Watch showcase on Nov. 10, and his sold-out show  hes the headliner, mind you  at the Laurie Beechman Theater on Nov. 11, Paris will perform locally at the The Delancey (Nov. 6), The Cutting Room (Nov. 7), the West Side Comedy Club (Nov. 8) and the historic Apollo Theatre (Nov. 9) as part of the festival.

Nicky Paris will be performing several shows in November during the New York Comedy Festival. (Courtesy of Nicky Paris)

Also on tap are performances with fellow former Staten Islander Eric DAlessandro on Nov. 18 at the Bergen Arts Performing Arts Center in New Jersey, and a couple of shows at the St. George Theatre on Staten Island on Dec. 29 and 30. Their two-night St. George Theatre run will mark the third year in a row the pair have performed at the theater.

For me to come home to Staten Island ... Its a dream for me. I look forward to it every single year, said the Michael J. Petrides School alumnus of his St. George Theatre shows. Like, I just cant wait.

Nicky Paris interviews actor Kevin Bacon. (Courtesy of Nicky Paris)

While 2023 is ending with a bang, Paris teased some very big news about upcoming shows in 2024, which he said he plans to announce in the coming weeks.

I think next year is going to be a really big year, he hinted.

With aspirations for a stand-up special or a talk show also on his mind, Paris is going to continue the grind  and his devotion to helping others find the funny in life.

Just knowing that I made peoples lives better just by being here, and giving people an escape. I think thats the most important thing to me, knowing that I left this world better  and funnier.

Follow Nicky Paris on Instagram (@nickyparisbitch), TikTok (thenickyparisbitch), Facebook and YouTube (@nickypariscomedy). For the latest on show dates and more, visit NickyParis.com.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Wagner College Theatre has announced that the winner of the 2023 Stanley Drama Award is Jami Brandli for her play The Magicians Sister.

In addition to the winner, three finalists were named: The Great White Way: The Bert Williams Musical, by Aaron Alon; Tennessee Wet Rub, by Kim E. Ruyle; and Martha & Me, by Lynn Hoffman. The award will be presented in the Manzulli Boardroom in Foundation Hall on the Wagner College campus on Thursday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m.

On Friday, Oct. 27, at 7 p.m., again in the Manzulli Boardroom, there will be a fully staged reading of The Magicians Sister, featuring Wagner College Theatre community members and directed by Prof. Michael Mickey Tennenbaum.

Both events are open to the public and were coordinated by Joey Donnelly, Stanley Drama Award administrative director.

ABOUT THE MAGICIANS SISTER

The Magicians Sister follows the story of two sisters: The aspiring Magician, driven by being the best, and the plays narrator, who somewhat reluctantly serves as her Wise Assistant. When the Magician purposely disappears herself and leaves behind mysterious clues to follow, the Wise Assistant becomes obsessed with finding her.

As the sisters story dramatically unfolds over the span of 30 years  interweaving the present and the past  we witness the sisters struggle to fulfill their collective goals and conflicting individual desires, while they strive to perfectly execute Houdinis famous Metamorphosis illusion.

The Magicians Sister explores the complexities of sisterhood, the ripple effect of family trauma, and the complicated pursuit and price of being special, while also incorporating the stories of real, historical female magicians and plenty of on-stage magic.

Jami Brandlis plays also include The Romeo and Juliet Senior Citizens Project: A Comedy, Technicolor Life, M-Theory, Through the Eye of a Needle, O: A Rhapsody in Divorce, Visiting Hours, The Caregivers Guide and BLISS (or Emily Post is Dead!) which was named in the inaugural Kilroys List.

Works were produced/developed at New Dramatists, New York Theatre Workshop, The Lark, Kitchen Dog Theater, Launch Pad, The Womens Voices Theater Festival, Moving Arts, The Road, Inkwell Theater, Great Plains Theatre Conference, among other venues. Brandli was a participating playwright at Center Theatre Groups 2022 L.A. Writers Workshop led by Luis Alfaro, where she developed her play about female magicians.

The Magicians Sister was presented last September as part of CTGs New Works Festival at The Kirk Douglas Theater. The Magicians Sister recently won the 2023 Jane Chambers Award, and it was workshopped and publicly presented at the 2023 Kayenta New Play Lab in Ivins, Utah. It was also a finalist for the 2023 Risk Award. Read more at www.jamibrandli.com

ABOUT THE FINALISTS

The Great White Way: The Bert Williams Musical is a new musical about famed comedian Bert Williams, who was the first major Black star on Broadway. His life in comedy, set against a time of anti-Black race riots throughout the United States, tells the story of the man WC Fields called the funniest man I ever saw and the saddest man I ever knew. To learn more, visit bertwilliamsmusical.com

Aaron Alon is an award-winning writer, composer, and director-producer. His recent stage musicals include The Great White Way: The Bert Williams Musical, Mad! and The Chosen One. His feature film musical Bully was screened in film festivals around the world, winning more than 20 festival awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Alon was a 2022 finalist for the Fred Ebb Award. His classical music has also been performed around the world, released on five CDs, and awarded numerous national and international composition honors. He is a member of ASCAP and is a founding member and president of the Board of Directors of Thunderclap Productions, a nonprofit production company based in Houston.

Martha and Me was created with a Playwriting Fellowship from the Connecticut Commission of the Arts in 2020. The arrival of an invitation to the 90th Anniversary Celebration of the Martha Graham Company releases a flood of memories for principal dancer Kendyl Strope, including the question thats haunted her for over 30 years: Was I good enough?

Lynn Hoffman received an MFA in writing from Spalding University where she studied Dramatic Writing. In 2021, the Caravan Theatre Company gave Martha and Me its first reading under the direction of Elizabeth Bove. In 2020, Three Mothers (full-length) was selected for the Depot for New Play Season of Readings. The same play advanced to the second round in the 2019 Orlando Shakes Festival. For more information about Hoffmans plays, visit her link at the New Play Exchange: https://newplayexchange.org/user.

Tennessee Wet Rub: In Tennessee, 1951, Hank and Bertha are huddled in their barbecue restaurant during a winter storm when 16-year-old Arleta, a white girl, and Dunk, a 20-year-old Black male, enter seeking shelter. This eloping couple is breaking the law, and they put the values and compassion of Hank and Bertha to the test. Conflict escalates and everything comes to a head when a deputy sheriff arrives to arrest Dunk for kidnapping Arleta.

Kim Ruyle is a playwright based in Wisconsin and a member of The Dramatists Guild of America and The Playwrights Center. His stories come from a unique perspective. A U.S. Army veteran with blue-collar roots, Kim went on to earn three masters degrees and a PhD. Writing for the stage is a second career for Ruyle beginning in 2018. His eight full-length plays have been produced and won awards. https://kimruyle.com/ kim.ruyle@inventivetalent.com

ABOUT THE STANLEY DRAMA AWARD

The Stanley Drama Award was established in 1957 by Staten Island philanthropist Alma Guyon Timolat Stanley and endowed through the Stanley-Timolat Foundation to encourage and support aspiring playwrights. The national Stanley Award competition is administered by the Wagner College Theatre program.

The Stanley Award carries with it a monetary prize, along with the distinction of joining the company of past Stanley winners, including Terrence McNallys This Side of the Door (aka Things That Go Bump in the Night), Adrienne Kennedys Funnyhouse of a Negro, Lonne Elder IIIs Ceremonies in Dark Old Men, and Jonathan Larsons Rent.
The worlds oldest canine, a Portuguese dog named Bobi, passed away on Saturday at the remarkable age of 31, per a statement by Guinness World Records.

This distinguished canine had been officially recognized as the worlds oldest dog by Guinness World Records in February 2023 and celebrated his 31st birthday in May.

Dr. Karen Becker, a veterinarian, shared the news of Bobis passing on Facebook, as reported in a statement from Guinness.

Last night, this gentle companion earned his angelic wings, said Becker. Even though he outlived every other dog in recorded history, his 11,478 days on this Earth could never be enough for those who cherished him.

Bobi was a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed of Portuguese dogs traditionally trained to safeguard livestock, per his owner. In his later years, he encountered challenges with mobility and a decline in eyesight.

Leonel Costa, Bobis owner, credited his dogs impressive longevity in part to the serene and tranquil environment in which he lived, nestled in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros.

Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo Portuguese dog, poses for a photo with his owner Leonel Costa and his Guinness World Record certificates for the oldest dog, at their home in Conqueiros, central Portugal, Saturday, May 20, 2023. Bobi's owner said Monday, Oct. 23, 2023, that he passed away Saturday at 31 years and 165 days of age. (AP Photo/ Jorge Jeronimo)AP

For his 31st birthday, Bobis family held a traditional Portuguese birthday celebration, replete with a dance troupe, at his residence in the rural region of southern Portugal, which more than 100 people attended.

Costa shared that Bobi relished his newfound fame since being officially recognized as the worlds oldest dog by Guinness back a few months earlier.

Weve had numerous journalists and visitors from all corners of the globe whove come to capture moments with Bobi, he mentioned in a press release.

Costa further revealed that Bobi recently underwent a thorough check-up due to concerns about the stress associated with so many well-wishers. Remarkably, despite Bobis advanced age, the dog remains in good health, even though he has encountered difficulties in walking and vision.

Notably, Bobi not only holds the distinction of being the worlds oldest living dog but also the most senior dog ever recorded in history, as confirmed by Guinness.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  A dry-cleaning shop suffered extensive damage to its exterior, and one customer suffered an injury after a vehicle slammed into a building in a strip mall in Princes Bay Thursday afternoon, police said.

The brick facade of Plush French Cleaners on Amboy Road at Seguine Avenue was damaged in the crash, which was reported around 2 p.m.

A witness at a neighboring business described hearing a loud bang and the sound of glass breaking.

According to a spokeswoman for the NYPD, the driver was pulling into a parking spot and went to hit the brakes, when the engine began to rev, causing the vehicle to go through a parking pole and into the storefront, breaking the glass window and toppling over a wall.

A customer inside was knocked down by a falling brick wall, resulting in an injury to the front left leg, the NYPD spokeswoman said.

Police had the exterior of the building roped off and an NYPD squad car was parked outside.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - Becoming irritable, lacking motivation and feeling negative and disillusioned about your work are some of the signs of burnout, according to the NYC Department of Health.

A recent study conducted by addiction specialists at The Diamond Rehab has identified the states experiencing the highest levels of burnout. This study analyzed search volume data for various work-related burnout-related phrases, terms and queries over the past year to determine the states most affected by burnout.

This study underscores the importance of addressing burnout as a public health concern. Prioritizing self-care is extremely important. Allocating time in your schedule for activities that bring you relaxation is integral to combatting burnout, a spokesperson for The Diamond Rehab said on the findings.

Whether its a hobby, exercise, or simply unwinding with a good book, taking time for yourself is crucial. Sometimes, simply sharing your feelings and concerns can provide valuable relief and guidance in overcoming burnout

New York is ranked third on the list of most burnt-out states, according to the study -- averaging a monthly search volume of 645 per 100,000 residents for work burnout-related terms and phrases.

New Yorkers made searches relating to these terms at a rate almost one-third higher than the national average, which stands at 487 searches per 100,000 people. Among the most searched burnout-related terms in New York, depersonalization took the top spot, with an average of 74,300 monthly searches. This was followed by burnout symptoms with 22,500 monthly searches and stress management with 13,980 monthly searches.

Mississippi is ranked as the least burnt-out state, according to the study.

Here is the list of the top 10 burnt-out states
Hong Kong's leader says the semi-autonomous city will pass its own internal security law next year, four years after Beijing imposed its set of draconian laws on the financial hub.

Chief Executive John Lee announced the plan Wednesday during his annual policy address before the legislature.

Hong Kong was engulfed by massive pro-democracy protests in 2019 that often turned into violent confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.

Beijing responded the next year by imposing a sweeping national security law under which anyone in Hong Kong believed to be carrying out terrorism, separatism, subversion of state power or collusion with foreign forces could be tried and face life in prison if convicted.
Why should average Americans care about the widespread and increasing imposition of educational gag orders, book bans and censorship on college campuses? How do these attempts to censor student learning materially impact the everyday lives of average Americans, the majority of whom do not hold college diplomas? Rarely do we hear about how banning books or censoring course topics affect the daily, material lives of average Americans.

There are very real impacts. Just look at the economies and the quality of life in authoritarian nations that limit free inquiry and speech, that constrict the freedom to learn, and that prohibit the contest of ideas. Those nations almost always realize lower outcomes on jobs, income, wealth, and productivity, and, of course, they severely limit personal liberties and legal rights.

The United States has benefited from an independent and unshackled university and college system. Unleashing the freedom to learn and encouraging engagement with difficult topics and controversial ideas has led to endless discoveries and new products. American universities have a mission to pursue the truth through the contest of theories and ideas when assessed by reasoned arguments based on experiments and data. The university faculties in free nations are not told what to teach and students are free to engage ideas, histories and values from many different viewpoints. This open mode of learning leads to discovery and validates arguments based on evidence and not predetermined by the political interests of governmental officials.

All of this freedom to learn has led to major gains in all of our lives, such as in healthcare and medical breakthroughs. One of the most impactful examples is the development of stem cell research, which helps us understand how diseases develop. It has produced very significant advances in the treatment of Parkinsons disease, ALS, Alzheimers disease, cancer, strokes and many other maladies. And yet we hear cries to rule out certain topics for university research based on religious views or political advantages. To politicize and restrict scientific research threatens all of us.

But what about study in the social sciences? How do they affect our material lives? The social sciences study how societies work and how to better understand individual behavior. They help us to better understand how to react to economic crises and improve job creation, worker productivity, worker safety, health policy and student learning. They focus on how different societies and cultures vary in trying to find solutions to the inescapable realities of everyday life. They study our different racial and ethnic legacies to assist in the creation and sustainability of stable schools, workplaces, neighborhoods and societies.

The social sciences help us to cope with interpersonal and social conflicts by focusing on real observations and experimental data in many different types of settings. We all lose out when topics deemed contentious and destructive by politicians are no longer available for university research and student learning.

Finally, what about the effect of the arts and the humanities on our everyday lives? These are the disciplines of music, literature, the fine and performing arts, history and philosophy. They are often mocked as dead-end subjects that dont lead to good-paying jobs and careers.

The book banners and the self-appointed censors would have us no longer learn about how humans have expressed our deepest desires, our most serious conflicts, our most challenging relationships because someone might be offended. If we ruled out hip hop music as a divisive subject, we wouldnt produce marvelous productions like Hamilton, which compares and contrasts the promises, disappointments, realities and ultimate idealism of the American Revolution and our grand experiment with ordinary citizens taking responsibility for governing themselves. Hamilton would be deemed DEI and woke for the censors.

In the end, the United States has advanced economically, reformed itself politically and respected individual freedoms because of our openness to new ideas and new innovations, not because we denied the freedom to learn and the right to decide for ourselves what is appropriate to read, to study, or to write. The move to make American universities more like those in controlled societies is downright un-American and unpatriotic. Educational censorship hurts everyday Americans just as much as university professors.

What we all want and what students need are universities that lead us toward solutions to the serious challenges in our everyday lives, such as the human impacts of climate change and our social division based on ignorance of our own histories. Universities based on the freedom to learn move us closer to opening our minds and soothing our hearts.

(Dr. Richard Guarasci is president emeritus of Wagner College.)
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Parents today are using baby names to express their values, aesthetics and identity, and we can expect next years most popular baby names to be a testament to that trend, according to the baby naming website Nameberry.

Growing up with the internet, parents these days know the power of a name, and they use it to create a brand  one that defines their children and themselves.

Baby naming trends include an emphasis on gender and racial diversity, the adultification of childrens style, and a movement toward gentle parenting, the website stated.

Nameberry just released a list of the Top 10 baby naming trends for 2024, with a range of categories and names for parents to choose from.

Todays parents are fixated on sending the right messages with the names they choose, said Nameberry creator Pamela Redmond. The perfect baby name for 2024 is one that is ahead of the style curve, personally significant, and identity-defining.

NAMEBERRYS TOP 10 BABY NAME TRENDS FOR 2024

Girl names for boys

Feminine boy names often appeal for their symbolism, soft and sensitive, or connections to the past, according to Nameberry.

Examples include Artemis, Blair, Carmen, Cleo, Harlow, Jade, Morgan, Raven, Robin, Willow and Winter.

Feminist names

These are names in which strength is attractive, and individuality should be embraced, according to the site.

Examples include Althea, Colette, Dahlia, Dorothea, Eleanora, Kiara, Lavender, Matilda, Tabitha, Theodora and Vienna.

Baby men and women

Nameberry said that while child-like names, such as Elsie or Mars, have gone viral, theres an undeniable shift toward more serious, indeed adult names for babies.

Names for baby men and woman are buttoned-up, formal, and easy to picture on an adult  but not quite a baby, stated Nameberry. Parents are looking forward to their children growing into their adult names rather than growing out of their baby ones.

Examples include Alfred, Arthur, Betty, Dolores, Harold, Helen, Lois, Martha, Maxine, Ray, Stanley and Sylvia.

Atmospheric names

These new, trendy atmospheric names often appeal to younger Millennial and Gen Z parents, according to Nameberry.

Theres no pressure for these names to become the new classics, or family heirlooms passed down for generations, stated Nameberry.

Examples include Aero, Aura, Azure, Celestial, Keilani, Lightning, Nevada, Rain, Sol, Sky, Storm and Sunny.

Natural glamour

Nameberry said natural glamour names promote an unpretentious life, but edged with low-key subtle style.

Examples include Archie, Celia, Cillian, Conrad, Daphne, Estelle, Flora, Greta, Guy, Harvey, Mabel, Phoebe and Viola.

Main character energy

These names are inspired by movies, mythology, or anime series, according to Nameberry.

Examples include Anakin, Athena, Chosen, Esmeralda, Jetson, Leonidas, Neo, Ophelia, Raya, Sylvester, Valentino and Zaire.

Gentle parenting names

Todays parents often favor names with calm auras and mellow sounds, according to Nameberry. These names have become a new trend among parents who approach their children with a soft, sensitive approach.

Examples include Alba, Ansel, Asa, Casper, Ellis, Faye, Ines, Koa, Liana, Rhea and Willa.

STEM names

2024 is the year for nerdy parents, according to Nameberry, which stated there will be an influx of baby names inspired by STEM  science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

These names often pay homage to a personal hero and share their passion with the world, stated Nameberry.

Examples include Astra, Calyx, Cosmo, Darwin, Edison, Franklin, Kepler, Nova, Onyx, Seven, Solstice, Una and Zenith.

-ai names

Names that end in ai, such as Kai, top the list.

These names are often given to multicultural or multilingual children, according to Nameberry.

Examples include Adlai, Alakai, Jakai, Jasai, Kenai, Makai, Masai, Mordecai, Sai, Shai and Zai.

Musical icon names

Many consider naming their children after their favorite pop or rock-and-roll artist.

Examples include Bowie, Cobain, Coltrane, Elton, Elvis, Graceland, Joni, Joplin, Lennon, Morrison, Ozzy, Nirvana, Rhiannon, Stevie, Zeppelin and Ziggy.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  On the annual night of frights, to see rain would prove a scary sight. However, while warm temperatures promise to deliver a desirable weekend, Tuesday looks to not be as fair.

According to an early AccuWeather forecast, conditions across the nation will vary early next week. For those in the Northeast, the report forebodes a potentially damp and chilly Halloween night. Forecasters indicate that a cold front is anticipated to make its way through the region early next week bringing about a significant drop in temperature.

This weekend, temperatures could potentially reach a high of 80, marking conditions that mimic the last days of summer. If the forecast holds true, it is possible that this weekend will mark the end of a streak which has seen New York City receive rainfall on at least one of its weekend days. But it is best not to celebrate prematurely, as Sundays potential for a passing shower or two remains unchanged.

As a result of the cold fronts arrival, temperatures are expected to drop beginning on Sunday, with those chilling conditions haunting the week to come.

The mild conditions that millions will experience this week across the Northeast will likely be a distant memory early next week. Temperatures that will climb comfortably to around 80 F in places like New York City and Philadelphia are expected to fall at least 20 degrees shy of those values by next Tuesday, AccuWeather Meteorologist Brandon Buckingham said.

In areas such as parts of northern Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, afternoon high temperatures may not even make it into the 40s on Tuesday, with overnight temperatures expected to plummet into the 20s and 30s, as noted by AccuWeather. Those looking to pay a visit to the headless horseman of Sleepy Hollow can expect temperatures in the 50s on Halloween.

As for NYC, it seems as though the day will start off dry and mostly cloudy, with temperatures slated to only reach a high of 52. It is when the night falls that all will want to make their way home  not for fear of a werewolf, but to remain dry. AccuWeather currently projects Halloween to be a rainy night, the chance of precipitation sitting at 88%. The low temperature of 39 will add a cold bite to the air; not ideal for those littlest trick-or-treaters. As of the time of publication, precipitation amounts for Tuesday night stand at 0.13 in.
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Meanwhile, Schwartz is more philosophical in his approach. I really think from the editorial side out. If I feel what we produce is good, and if people around me think its good, then Im happy. Quality writing drives Schwartz, who takes a more active role in his publishing company Black Inc.  The Quarterly Essay being among its titles  highlights the recent Killing for Country book by David Marr as an important contribution to the country. Driven by editorial rather than commercial imperatives, Schwartzs publishing ambitions have been fruitfully nurtured by his property endeavours. The only way to do it was to make money elsewhere, so I made money in property. I dont do much of it any more, Schwartz said.

Launching The Saturday Paper in 2014, then-communications minister Malcolm Turnbull quipped Schwartz was not some demented plutocrat pouring more and more money into a loss-making venture that is just going to peddle your opinions. (Turnbull later denied this was reference to Rupert Murdoch, of whom Schwartz is a known critic.) Rupert Murdoch is the subject of Schwartzs new special podcast series. Credit: The New York Times But despite the progressive bias, Schwartz is a believer in holding the line on centrism, calling it a great place to aim for, noting the company tries to publish everything with impartiality. We dont opine on anything, he said, though he has strong opinions on refugee policy, climate change, and, more recently, advocating for Yes in the Voice to parliament referendum. It feels that the country needs healing, Schwartz said of the referendums result,we will try to just promote decency and centrism.

One knotty issue is Schwartz Medias perceived hesitancy around the subject of Israel and Palestine. Its highly complex, and highly emotional subject, Schwartz said. My life is private, and I keep it that way. I dont think anyone really does know my positions. Theyre complex, he said. Its not our prime objective to cover international news. We do it, but our primary objective is to cover Australian news. When big international events happen, of course we cover them as carefully as we can. Novembers edition of the Jewish Quarterly, which Schwartz publishes, was set to be a 112-page critique of Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by Israeli author and Netanyahu biographer Anshel Pfeffer, but Schwartz pulled it weeks before it was due to hit the shelves. Schwartz denies the decision was related to heightened turmoil in the Middle East. He said the essay became out of date because of all the judicial overhaul business [announced in Israel].

Novembers scrapped edition of Jewish Quarterly A crucial departure Costello, who has been crucial in driving Schwartz Medias commercial product, leaves at an important time for independent media, with a depressed advertising market and consumers having less spare cash for subscription journalism. The Saturday Paper pitches its reader profile as premium  those living in the inner city with an average age of 43, an average of $420,000 in savings or investments, and 82 per cent university educated  according to a 2022 media kit. Roy Morgan figures show a monthly print readership of 285,000, with web and app readership of 435,000, while the high-flying podcast 7am, launched in 2019, is Australias top rating daily news podcast.

In September, it had just under 400,000 listeners and 1.25 million downloads, tapering off slightly from the podcast boom in the pandemic years. Until a new CEO is appointed, Schwartz will be getting back into the day-to-day of the business. I get involved in general direction, we have meetings, we talk about society, he said, but in terms of editorial, you hire an editor, and you trust them. I suppose Ill be an executive chair for a bit. With a loyal audience, Schwartz said Costello had built the commercial product beautifully, with the business now in a comfortable place.

When I think about the way in which our titles have succeeded, theyve succeeded because of how theyve told stories, and in that way, it really is quite simple, Jensen said. We believe completely in our journalists, and we believe completely in our audiences. As for Costello, she is just as philosophical as Schwartz on her exit. Seventeen years is 17 years, she said. I dont own Schwartz, so that is a pretty amazing tenure in this day and age in any job in whatever industry, so for me, it was timing and opportunity and it all coming together at the right moment. Whoever he hires to replace Costello, Schwartz said the company would stick to its course. The Saturday Paper is very strongly into thoughtful long form, and thats where itll stay.
"On this future flight, the U.K. astronauts would launch to space, spending up to two weeks on orbit to carry out scientific research, demonstrate new technologies, and participate in education and outreach activities," the agency said.

The memorandum of understanding with Houston-based Axiom Space sets out plans for a flight that would see British astronauts conduct a two-week mission in space.

The U.K. Space Agency and a U.S. spaceflight services company have signed an initial agreement as they bid to send British astronauts into orbit for two weeks, the agency said Wednesday.

Axiom was founded by its chief executive Michael Suffredini, who served as NASA's International Space Station (ISS) program manager from 2005 to 2015. It has sent two crewed missions into orbit with SpaceX rockets in April 2022 and in May this year.

The first mission carried an astronaut and three "investors" with the crew spending 17 days in orbit. The second mission carried a crew of four and lasted 10 days. Axiom says it is working on what will become the first-ever commercial space station.

The mission with the U.K. would be commercially sponsored and supported by the European Space Agency. It would build on the U.K. government's space strategy which identifies five technologies as critical: artificial intelligence, engineering biology, telecommunications, semiconductors and quantum technologies.

"With this agreement as the initial foundation, we will build a comprehensive mission plan in support of the U.K.'s national and agency objectives to advance its capabilities in space exploration and discovery," Suffredini said.

Helen Sharman from Sheffield became the first Briton in space in 1991 when she went into orbit aboard a Soviet Soyuz TM-12 space capsule.
In an era when workplace health and safety is as Australian as Vegemite, it is strange how some industries still harbour a death wish for their workers.

More than eight months have passed since the Herald exposed the true scale of the deadly silicosis crisis killing young tradies across Australia. Our investigative series revealed how the manufacture of kitchen benchtops that are a feature of many Australian homes has been likened to the asbestos of the 21st century. A study commissioned by the Australian Council of Trade Unions predicted up to 103,000 workers will eventually be diagnosed with silicosis and another 10,000 with lung cancer after being exposed to the potentially deadly dust. Court cases are mounting up.

Silicosis is a dust disease caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica particles. Credit: SMH

Research shows working on engineered stone kitchen benchtops is as lethal as asbestos mining was for workers in generations past. Despite deaths and union campaigns back then to stop the mining and manufacture of asbestos products, the toll was worsened by dithering state and federal governments and years of obfuscation, denial and lies by mining companies. The silicosis emergency seems blighted by the same glacial pace of policy reform.

While superficially similar to asbestosis, silicosis can cause symptoms much earlier in life, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, sleeping problems and weight loss. It can then develop into fatal conditions such as progressive massive fibrosis and increases the likelihood of lung cancer and tuberculosis. Weve known it is bad news for years: a 2005 study of Chinese workers exposed to silica dust in the early 1970s found only 25 per cent had survived more than 33 years and the federal governments 2019 National Dust Disease Taskforce looked at silicosis. Some states, Queensland, Victoria and NSW subsequently banned dry cutting of the stone.
All the Light We Cannot See

  1/2

Netflix, from November 2

Youre never going to please everyone with an adaptation of a much loved book, but Netflixs new series based on Anthony Doerrs 2014 All The Light We Cannot See might have trouble pleasing anyone who read the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Doerrs sprawling book, which has sold more than 15 million copies, features two young protagonists living very different lives during World War II. After much nuanced and intricate storytelling, their lives eventually converge. Its a story about family, connection, fate, morality and duty.

Aria Mia Loberti, in her first acting role, is the highlight of this adaptation. Credit: Katalin Vermes/Netflix

But in the hands of director/producer Shawn Levy, whose credits include the film Free Guy and episodes of Stranger Things, this four-part series becomes an oversimplified, schmaltzy wartime story with a wildly different ending.
Flattery would normally be Sydney designer Mariam Seddiqs response to being mistaken for an international luxury brand like Balmain, Oscar de la Renta, Valentino and Chloe.

Instead, frustration was the feeling experienced by Seddiq at seeing one of her cloud-like dresses appear alongside the latest Paris, Milan and New York runway looks in a document sent to celebrity stylists by another Australian label.

The image of a Seddiq dress, worn by model Sarah Ellen at Paris Fashion Week, appeared in a spring racing capsule from Melbourne label Atoir. The 22-page document was sent to stylists and influencers in the lead up to Derby Day at Flemington Racecourse.

In the document, photos of international creations, plus Seddiqs strapless pouf dress, on models and celebrities were accompanied by sketches by Atoirs design team, some with alterations.
A significant group of more than 30 First Nations figures, community service organisations and eminent legal identity Margaret McMurdo have called for the resignation of embattled Queensland police union president Ian Leavers.

The QPS First Nations Advisory Group along with supporters and allies including Labors former deputy leader in Brisbane City Council, Kara Cook, made the joint statement dismissing Leavers outward racist ideology expressed in a Courier-Mail opinion piece this week.

These racialised and divisive comments should be condemned in the strongest terms, the statement said.

Doubling down at a press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Leavers described earlier criticism as water off a ducks back because he was saying things people were too frightened to. Credit: Toby Crockford

The Queensland Police Union President has through his comments bought into question whether he is a fit and proper person for the role  We call on Mr Leavers to resign.

Leavers latest and deliberately inflammatory comments railed against the previously bipartisan state treaty pathway and attempted to tie it to the recent Voice vote, following the LNP last week, with unfounded claims and misrepresented data.

These included the false claim treaties would be a crime free pass for First Nations people.

Read the full story.
NSW Premier Chris Minns has sided with students at an all-girls Sydney Catholic school who are fighting to reverse a ban on bringing a same-sex partner as a date to their year 12 formal.

A petition calling for the St Ursulas College at Kingsgrove to allow same-sex couples to attend their formal has garnered more than 4300 signatures after the school allegedly told students they could not bring a female date to the event.

A change.org petition that has garnered thousands of signatures is calling for Sydneys St Ursulas College to allow same-sex couples at the formal.

I think in this day and age you should be able to take anyone you like to your Year 12 formal - we are after all talking about teenagers who are close to or over the age of 18, Minns said.

Students say they discovered the Sydney Catholic school has a policy of not allowing same-sex couples at the formal after they purchased tickets to the end-of-year event. The schools no girlfriend rule has since attracted national media attention.
Michael Durrant claims to have the largest private fossil replica collection in the world produced by one guy.

But plans to house that collection in a tiny town known more for its gold than its dinosaurs have been scotched after a heated local debate about the proposal prompted the amateur collector to walk away and take his fossils with him.

Michael Durrant with a fossil from the spine of a spinosaurus, which would have featured in the Gulgong museum.

Mid-Western Regional Council won a $3 million state tourism grant last year to build a museum for Durrants collection in the gold rush town of Gulgong, a town of 2680 people north of Mudgee, and home already to four museums.

But while the proposal won the support of more than 70 per cent of Gulgong locals, according to a council survey, it prompted strong opposition from some, who criticised the scientific value of Durrants collection and the site chosen to build the museum, on the hill where gold was discovered in Gulgong in 1870.
Heartbreaking survival stories have emerged as firefighters look to finally contain a deadly blaze in southern Queensland.

Residents are still not able to return to Tara, west of Brisbane, after hundreds were forced to flee from the ferocious fire that claimed one life and destroyed 16 homes.

A yet to be identified body was found on Tuesday night in the fire-ravaged region.

A 73-year-old woman also died after she suffered a heart attack while trying to evacuate her property.
New evidence allegedly linking a Perth man to the murder of schoolboy Cassius Turvey has been uncovered and could lead to more charges, the Supreme Court of WA heard on Thursday

Jack Brearley, 22, allegedly bashed the 15-year-old with a metal pole after chasing a group of children in school uniforms through a reserve, with Cassius picked off for being the slowest.

Cassius Turvey was 15 years old when he died.

Brearley, along with co-accused Mitchell Forth, Aleesha Gilmore and Brodie Palmer, had allegedly been on a violent vigilante mission to find out who had smashed Brearleys car windows four days earlier when Cassius was attacked after school in Middle Swan in October 2022.

His death in hospital 10 days later from bleeding on the brain sparked a nationwide outcry of grief, with vigils held for the schoolboy across Australia.
Perths local councils are not on the same page when it comes to protecting verge trees, with more than half not enforcing laws regarding them in the past two years, and others dishing out widely varying penalties ranging from warnings to $10,000 fines.

Trees on council land account for around 15 per cent of Perths suburban tree loss, with homeowners and property developers required to seek permission from their local government authority to remove a problem tree.

Sprawling Perth is Australias least-vegetated capital. Credit: Nearmap

And with Perth suffering the worst tree canopy coverage of any Australian capital city according to Nearmap, the West Australian Local Government Association is spearheading an attempt to improve things.

However, it seems some councils are taking a tougher stance on protecting verge trees than others.
Tokyo: Japans Supreme Court has ruled that a law obliging transgender people to undergo sterilisation surgery to officially change their gender is cruel and unconstitutional.

The 2003 law requiring the removal of sex organs to obtain a state-recognised gender change has long been criticised by international rights and medical groups as discriminatory as well as invasive and risky for health.

On Wednesday, the courts 15-judge grand bench agreed, ruling against the cruel choice between embracing the sterilisation surgery that requires an intense level of bodily invasion and relinquishing important legal benefits of being treated according to their gender identity.

Lawyers Kazuyuki Minami, left, and Masafumi Yoshida hold signs that read Unconstitutional, right, and Back (to High Court) during a press conference following the ruling on Wednesday. Credit: AP

However, the decision was not a full legal victory for those wishing to change gender, as the Supreme Court sent the case back to a lower court to deliberate the requirement for gender-affirmation surgery.
The Korea Tourism Organization has made public Korea's first-ever promotional video created using artificial intelligence.

Made to boost the organization's efforts to promote Korea around the world, the video is called "What If Vincent Van Gogh Visited Korea."

It showcases famous tourist attractions in the country in the artistic styles of 11 renowned painters including Van Gogh, Claude Monet and Gustav Klimt. It can be viewed on the organization's YouTube channel.
Wellington: Former deputy prime minister Winston Peters has shocked and appalled his fellow New Zealanders with a false claim the office of former prime minister Jacinda Ardern had advance warning of the Christchurch mosques massacre and covered it up.

The 2019 attack, in which 51 worshippers were killed by Australian terrorist Brenton Tarrant, is the subject of a coronial inquest which began this week in Christchurch.

On Wednesday, the inquest reviewed an email sent by Tarrant to a range of locations - including Arderns office  just a few minutes before he began his crimes.

Winston Peters was Jacinda Arderns deputy PM in a coalition, but has now accused her office of not acting when needed. Credit: Getty

A parliamentary staffer, granted name suppression by the inquest, reviewed the email and called police at roughly the same time Tarrant arrived at Al Noor Mosque.
~ Maingrette is yet to resign from his politically appointed job in the cabinet of TEATT.~

PHILIPSBURG:--- The board of the United Peoples Party gave their former member and candidate Kevin Maingrette the opportunity to apologize to the people of St. Maarten especially the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Silveria Jacobs or resign from the United Peoples Party (UPP) when they realized that he was one of the persons leaking false information to his friend and compatriot businessman Olivier Arrindell.

SMN News learned from reliable sources that the UPP board members told Maingrette to do an interview on one of the islands radio stations and apologize for his role in causing several persons in government to be defamed and slandered by Arrindell. They claimed that several persons including the UPP leader have been accused of leaking information to Arrindell when the real culprit was Maingrette.

However, on October 4th, 2023, Maingrette opted to post a video on social media claiming that he would not accept any endorsement from anyone but at no point did he mention Arrindells name. He also said in that video that he was not going anywhere and would be contesting the January 2024 parliamentary elections on the UPP slate.

On Tuesday, October 25th, 2023 Maingrette opted to resign instead of apologizing to those whose names had been slandered via WhatsApp by his friend.

By Wednesday, a radio station on Saint Martin posted a flyer announcing that Maingrette would be on that radio station with the NOW leader Christopher Emmanuel.

While Maingrette submitted a letter of resignation to the UPP Party leader, he has yet to resign from the politically appointed position he holds in the cabinet of the Minister of TEATT.

In his resignation letter, he thanked the UPP and its members for the opportunities he has had over the years since joining the UPP. He further stated that after careful consideration and thought he realized that his personal beliefs and values no longer aligned with those of the UPP party. He claimed that different avenues within the party have been explored to effect change that he believes were necessary but he was not successful in doing so.
PHILIPSBURG:--- On Tuesday, October 24, 2023, the Parliament of Sint Maarten hosted a Presidium Contactplan meeting with colleague Parliamentarians from the countries of Aruba, Curacao, and Suriname. This meeting was initially scheduled for Monday, October 23, but could not take place due to delays in-flight connectivity as a result of Hurricane Tammy.

The Presidium meeting consisted of the President of the Parliament of Aruba, Mr. Edgard Vrolijk, the President of the Parliament of Curacao, Mrs. Charetti America-Francisca, the President of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, Mr. Sidharth Bijlani, the President of the National Assembly of Suriname, Mr. Marinus Bee, and the chairpersons or appointed Members of the Committees of Kingdom Affairs (and or International Relations) of the Parliaments of the countries.

During this meeting, the delegations agreed that there is still mutual interest for collaboration between the four countries and

that all intend to continue this working relationship called the Parliamentary Contactplan Aruba, Curacao, Sint Maarten, and Suriname.

The delegations also agreed that they will establish a work group that will be tasked with preparing the agenda points for the next Parliamentary Contactplan scheduled to take place in February 2024 in Aruba. These preparations will commence in November 2023. Topics to be discussed will concern matters beneficial to the Parliaments as institutions and also the countries in general.

Due to COVID-19 and other events, there has been no follow-up to the last Contactplan meeting that was held in February 2019 in Suriname. The topics discussed and agreed upon to cooperate on during that previous Contactplan meeting were topics of trade, eco-tourism, and agriculture.
Gold Terra Extends the Gold-Bearing Campbell Shear with a 30-metre intersection 200 metres below the Con Deposit, Con Mine Option Property, NWT

Gold Terra Resource Corp. (TSX-V: YGT; Frankfurt: TX0; OTCQX: YGTFF) (aGold Terraa or the aCompanya  https://www.commodity-tv.com/ondemand/companies/profil/gold-terra-resource-corp/ ) is pleased to announce that drill hole GTCM23-055 has successfully intersected over 60 metres of the gold-bearing Campbell Shear from a downhole depth of 2,075 to 2,135 metres. The hole was shutdown at a final downhole depth of 2,228 metres from surface. The hole was designed to test for gold mineralization below the Con Mine underground workings on the Con Mine Option (CMO) Property. The CMO A Property is under option from subsidiaries of Newmont Corporation and is 100% acquirable by the Company upon fulfillment of certain conditions set out in the CMO Property agreement, as reported in the Company\-s news release datedA November 22, 2021

Within the 60 metre Campbell Shear (CS) intersection, approximately 30 metres of the CS (see Figure 1) within the footwall of the structure displays strong shear fabric, sericite alteration, prominent quartz veining (see Figure 2) and typical 1 to 5% sulphide mineralization including pyrite, pyrrhotite, and traces of sphalerite, stibnite and arsenopyrite. A mineralized laminated quartz vein (see Figure 3) at 2,116 metres contains fine specks of visible gold (see Figure 4). Samples from the zone have been submitted for laboratory analysis and results are pending. A

Chairman and CEO, Gerald Panneton, commented, \We are excited to have achieved our 1st objective on the extension of the high-grade gold bearing Campbell Shear in hole GTCM23-055, some 200 metres below the existing Con Mine underground workings. It is a major technical success to delineate a 30-metre intersection of prominent quartz veining and sulphide mineralization as well as the presence of visible gold. On comparing our intersection with historic intersections in the closest underground drilling, such as in historical hole 7940, we see major similarities to the current intersection some 250 metres above.A This is indicative of the continuation of gold mineralization within the shear below the former Con Mine where 5.1 million ounces of gold was produced at an average grade of 16 g/t.A We will be now stepping up from our master/parent hole to add more intersections within a radius of 50 to 100 metres laterally and eventually up-dip from our successful first intersection.a

The Quick Log of the CS section in hole GTCM23-055 is as follows with core photos shown in Figures 2,3 and 4 further below:

From and to in metres (m)

1500m to 2075m; massive mafic volcanics flows (some pillows)

2075m to 2135m; Campbell shear structure

2093m-2105m; developing schistosity + small sections of Quartz/Carbonate veining with local sulphides mineralization (Py-Po) + sericite alteration

2105m-2135m; Well develop shearing with 30-50% quartz veining (15cm to 50cm vein) with sulphide (2-5%) mineralization through out mainly Py>>Po and traces of others.

 2015m-2020m; 50% laminated smoky quartz veining and 3% total sulphides (Py>>Po> traces of stibnite sphalerite and arsenopyrite).

 Visible gold at 2116.5m in a 50cm quartz vein

2135m to 2228m; Gradually back in the massive volcanics intermixed with sediments.

2228m End of the hole

Directional drilling

The company is continuing its drill program using master/parent hole GTCM23-055 to add multiple intersections or cut into the Campbell shear structure. With Foracoa?s Control Directional Drilling team, already on site in Yellowknife, we are able to continue our assessment of the Campbell Shear to obtain more intersections on a 50-75m spacing laterally and up dip.

Future Updates

To hear about drilling updates and the Companya?s future drilling plans, please join us on Tuesday, November 7 @ 11:20 AM at the Red Cloud Fall Mining Showcase, Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, 123 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 2M9.A Please register at Fall Mining Showcase 2023  Red Cloud Financial Services Inc. (redcloudfs.com).

Qualified Persons

Joe Campbell, P. Geo., Senior Technical Advisor for Gold Terra is a Qualified Person within the meaning of NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release.

A About Gold Terra

The Yellowknife Project (YP) encompasses 918 sq. km of contiguous land immediately north, south and east of the City of Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories. Through a series of acquisitions, Gold Terra controls one of the six major high-grade gold camps in Canada. Being within 10 kilometres of the City of Yellowknife, the YP is close to vital infrastructure, including all-season roads, air transportation, service providers, hydro-electric power, and skilled tradespeople. Gold Terra is currently focusing its drilling on the prolific Campbell Shear, where 14 Moz of gold has been produced, and most recently on the Con Mine Option (CMO) property claims immediately south of the past producing Con Mine which produced 6.1 Moz between the Con, Rycon, and Campbell shear structures (1938-2003).

The YP and CMO properties lie on the prolific Yellowknife greenstone belt, covering nearly 70 kilometres of strike length along the main mineralized shear system that hosts the former-producing high-grade Con and Giant gold mines. The Company\-s exploration programs have successfully identified significant zones of gold mineralization and multiple targets that remain to be tested which reinforces the Company\-s objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada.

Visit our website at www.goldterracorp.com.

For more information, please contact:

Gerald Panneton, Chairman & CEO

gpanneton@goldterracorp.com

Mara Strazdins, Investor Relations

Phone: 1-778-897-1590 | 604-689-1749 ext 102

strazdins@goldterracorp.com

In Europe:

Swiss Resource Capital AG

Jochen Staiger

info@resource-capital.ch

www.resource-capital.ch

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Information Concerning Estimates of Mineral Resources Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Therefore, investors are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource could ever be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of aMeasured Mineral Resources,a aIndicated Mineral Resources,a or aInferred Mineral Resourcesa will ever be upgraded to a higher category. The Mineral Resource estimates contained herein may be subject to legal, political, environmental or other risks that could materially affect the potential development of such mineral resources. Refer to the Technical Report, once filed, for more information with respect to the key assumptions, parameters, methods and risks of determination associated with the foregoing.

Cautionary Note to United States Investors

The Company prepares its disclosure in accordance with the requirements of securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Terms relating to Mineral Resources in this news release are defined in accordance with NI 43-101 under the guidelines set out in CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum Council on May 19, 2014, as amended (\CIM Standards\). The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the \SEC\) has adopted amendments effective February 25, 2019 (the \SEC Modernization Rules\) to its disclosure rules to modernize the mineral property disclosure requirements for issuers whose securities are registered with the SEC under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a result of the adoption of the SEC Modernization Rules, the SEC will now recognize estimates of \Measured Mineral Resources\, \Indicated Mineral Resources\ and \Inferred Mineral Resources\, which are defined in substantially similar terms to the corresponding CIM Standards. In addition, the SEC has amended its definitions of \Proven Mineral Reserves\ and \Probable Mineral Reserves\ to be substantially similar to the corresponding CIM Standards.

U.S. investors are cautioned that while the foregoing terms are \substantially similar\ to corresponding definitions under the CIM Standards, there are differences in the definitions under the SEC Modernization Rules and the CIM Standards. Accordingly, there is no assurance any Mineral Resources that the Company may report as \Measured Mineral Resources\, \Indicated Mineral Resources\ and \Inferred Mineral Resources\ under NI 43-101 would be the same had the Company prepared the Mineral Resource estimates under the standards adopted under the SEC Modernization Rules. In accordance with Canadian securities laws, estimates of \Inferred Mineral Resources\ cannot form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies, except in limited circumstances where permitted under NI 43-101.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Certain statements made and information contained in this news release constitute \forward-looking information\ within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (\forward-looking information\). Generally, this forward-looking information can, but not always, be identified by use of forward-looking terminology such as \plans\, \expects\ or \does not expect\, \is expected\, \budget\, \scheduled\, \estimates\, \forecasts\, \intends\, \anticipates\ or \does not anticipate\, or \believes\, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events, conditions or results \will\, \may\, \could\, \would\, \might\ or \will be taken\, \occur\ or \be achieved\ or the negative connotations thereof.

All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based on estimates and assumptions that are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding the current drilling on the Campbell Shear, potentially adding ounces to the Companya?s current YCG mineral resource, and the Company\-s objective of re-establishing Yellowknife as one of the premier gold mining districts in Canada.

There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company\-s actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in this forward-looking information as a result of the factors discussed in the \Risk Factors\ section in the Company\-s most recent MD&A and annual information form available under the Company\-s profile at www.sedar.com.

Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that would cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The forward-looking information contained in this news release is based on information available to the Company as of the date of this news release. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. All of the forward-looking information contained in this news release is qualified by these cautionary statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Except as required under applicable securities legislation and regulations applicable to the Company, the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information.
Transoft Solutions Introduces AeroCENTRAL

Transoft Solutions, developers of productivity-enhancing software and services for aviation, civil infrastructure, transportation and traffic safety industries, announced a new addition to their aviation product portfolio that bridges the gap between airside planning and operations.

To view this image (Click HereA -A https://cdn.newswire.com/files/x/59/b8/6880654ab6d97392a8a2dfa50de7.jpg)

Bridging the gap between airside planning and operations

AeroCENTRAL\-s centralized platform makes it easy for technical and operational airport planners, ground handlers and other key stakeholders to publish, distribute, and view airside infrastructure and operational information.

AeroCENTRAL, the company\-s first SaaS solution for the aviation industry, allows users to share key airside infrastructural and operational information across teams and departments, through a single, centralized system. Scalable and easily accessible by various stakeholders, the platform hosts specialized applications for operational and technical planning tasks.

The two applications on the AeroCENTRAL platform that are available at launch are Stand Guide and Specifications. These applications allow airports, airlines, ground service providers and their partners to publish, distribute, and view aircraft parking stand configurations, equipment locations, turnaround procedures, and aircraft technical specifications  ultimately, supporting safer operations and more efficient decision-making.

AeroCENTRAL allows users to incorporate existing data, such as details from Transoft\-s AviPLAN software, with additional technical and operational data, into a single platform. The platform can also connect to external geographic information systems (GIS) and Airport Operational Databases (AODB).

Intuitive and user-friendly for those of all levels of experience and proficiency, airport planning, operational planning and ground service teams will be able to publish, access and use the same up-to-date airport infrastructure and operational information, or aircraft data. This removes the need for numerous online and offline data sources, and with the ability to access and use the platform on a range of devices, AeroCENTRAL brings further convenience for the users. AeroCENTRAL ultimately saves time, reduces data duplication, and minimizes the risk of data loss or error, to support users in achieving safe and optimal operational tasks.

\We\-re very excited about this product launch and expect AeroCENTRAL to be a game changer for airside operations and planning in the aviation industry,\ said Mark Rodrigues, Vice President of Aviation at Transoft Solutions. \This platform will streamline how airside operations teams work together with a significant improvement in collaboration, on top of minimizing uncertainty to support safer and more optimal airside operations.\

\Additionally, we anticipate that users of Transoft\-s AviPLAN software will welcome AeroCENTRAL Stand Guide to their technology stack as it is the only application on the market capable and authorized to migrate AviPLAN design sessions from CAD into a geographic mapping system.\

For more information, visit:A https://aerocentral.com/

About Transoft Solutions

Transoft Solutions develops advanced and highly specialized software for aviation, civil infrastructure, transportation, and operational professionals. Our innovative and time-saving solutions help professionals plan, design, and operate safe transportation systems. Founded in 1991, our portfolio of planning, simulation, modeling, and design solutions are used in over 150 countries serving more than 50,000 customers across local and federal agencies, consulting firms, airport authorities, and ports. We take pride in providing the highest quality of customer support from our headquarters in Canada, and through our offices in Sweden, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, India, Belgium, Spain, and China. For more information on Transoft\-s range of aviation, civil design, and traffic safety solutions, visitA transoftsolutions.com

Transmitted by IRW-Press a News Service of IR-WORLD.com Finanzkommunikation GmbH

A

The author of the news release is solely responsible for the content of the release or research. This news does not constitute investment advice or an invitation to conclude certain stock exchange transactions.
LG Chem has opened a research and development center in the U.S. state of Georgia and signed a memorandum of understanding with the Georgia Institute of Technology, it said on Wednesday.

With the center's opening, Korea's leading chemical company plans to expand its cooperation with local businesses there to increase joint research and attract global talent and experts in North America, including Georgia.

LG Chem aims to leverage Georgia Tech's R&D capabilities to drive collaboration in areas such as the commercialization of fundamental technologies and the development of innovative business models. The company will also nurture and recruit new talent.

LG Chem is expected to invest heavily to bring its plans to fruition, as it hopes the facility will become one of the major R&D centers in North America by 2025.
The Andromeda Galaxy, also called Messier 31 or M31, is the nearest major galaxy to the Milky Way.

It is 2.5 million light years away from Earth and is the other major member of the Local Group, our local collection of galaxies.

Like the Milky Way , it is a barred spiral galaxy, so-called for the bar-like structure formed by the stars in its center.

Related: Galaxies, the cosmic cities of the universe, explained by astrophysicist

Andromeda is about 260,000 light-years wide, according to NASA , making it the largest galaxy in the Local Group. However, its mass is roughly comparable to or even less than that of the Milky Way, according to NASA JPL

Scientists think the galaxy could be anywhere from 5 and 10 billion years old . However, it may not have existed in its current form until two or three billion years ago, when two smaller galaxies orbiting each other merged to form the current Andromeda Galaxy, according to a 2018 study .

How to see Andromeda in the night sky

This mosaic of M31 merges 330 individual images taken by the Ultraviolet/Optical Telescope aboard NASA's Swift spacecraft. It is the highest-resolution image of the galaxy ever recorded in the ultraviolet. The image shows a region 200,000 light-years wide and 100,000 light-years high (100 arcminutes by 50 arcminutes). (Image credit: NASA/Swift/Stefan Immler (GSFC) and Erin Grand (UMCP))

Andromeda is visible to the naked eye but only when viewed in dark skies and ideally on a moonless night. In many places, it is visible the entire year for at least part of the night but is highest in the sky and therefore easiest to spot in August and September, according to EarthSky . There are several ways to find Andromeda. One of the easiest is to locate the constellation Cassiopeia, which forms a kind of M or W shape in the sky. The lowest point of the W is the star Schedar, which points directly at Andromeda.

Using a high-powered telescope in dark skies, it is also possible to observe some of the star clusters within the galaxy, such as the bright cluster Mayall II, also called Globular One or G1. This cluster is so bright that some researchers think it is the remnant of the core of a dwarf galaxy that merged with Andromeda in the distant past.

Related: Best telescopes 2023: For stargazing galaxies, nebulas and more

Andromeda FAQs

What will happen when we hit the Andromeda galaxy? When the Milky Way and Andromeda merge in about 4.5 billion years, they will probably form a huge elliptical galaxy. Chances are that our solar system will be relatively unaffected. We might be pulled away from the center of the galaxy, or we might be totally ejected from it. Stars are so far apart that any sort of collision is extremely unlikely. However, it's almost certain that the increasing luminosity of our sun will have caused Earth to become inhospitable to all multicellular life by this point, so we will not be around to find out.

Can you see the Andromeda galaxy from Earth? You can see Andromeda from Earth even without a telescope in dark skies. An easy way to find it is to locate the "W" shape of the constellation Cassiopeia, which points towards Andromeda.

Is Andromeda bigger than the Milky Way? Andromeda is larger than the Milky Way in terms of the distance it extends. However, the two galaxies are roughly comparable in mass, and it's hard to say which one is more massive.

Colliding galaxies

Andromeda and the Milky Way are slowly drifting towards each other, leading scientists to conclude that they will likely collide about 4.5 billion years from now, according to a 2019 study. The two galaxies will most likely form a giant elliptical, or oval, galaxy, according to NASA.

It's not clear what might happen to our planet and solar system during this merger. Scientists think we might be swept about much further away from the core of the Milky Way, according to NASA, or be completely ejected from our galaxy . However, neither one of these things would greatly impact our solar system.

Unfortunately (or fortunately) for us, we will almost definitely not be around to find out what happens. By around a billion years from now, the sun 's increasing luminosity is predicted to have disrupted life on Earth so thoroughly that only single-celled organisms will be left.

A possible exoplanet

The Andromeda galaxy in the visible, infrared, and X-ray light spectrums, using data from the European Space Agency's Herschel (infrared) and XMM-Newton (X-ray) observatories, as well as the optical image by Robert Gendler. (Image credit: infrared: ESA/Herschel/PACS/SPIRE/J. Fritz, U. Gent; X-ray: ESA/XMM-Newton/EPIC/W. Pietsch, MPE; optical: R. Gendler)

In 1999, scientists noticed a minute change in Andromeda known as a microlensing event, which they called PA-99-N2. Gravitational lensing happens when something extremely massive, like a large galaxy, bends the light of a far more distant background object behind it, sometimes creating multiple distorted images of that object. With microlensing, a smaller object, like a star or planet, causes this type of distortion. The distortion of light causes the background source to become temporarily brighter, according to the Planetary Society .

One explanation for this event is that the background object was a red giant star in Andromeda, and the lensing object was another star in the galaxy, possibly with a planet orbiting it. Scientists think this star has a planet because of the pattern of the brightening during the event. If this planet exists, it would be the first exoplanet discovered in another galaxy. The planet may be around 6.34 times the mass of Jupiter , according to a 2012 study .

Andromeda and the Great Debate

In the 1920s, the distant galaxy became part of the Great Debate between American astronomers Harlow Shapley and Heber Curtis. At the time, astronomers thought the Milky Way composed the whole universe, and the strange patches such as Andromeda (known as "nebulas" at the time) lay inside of them. Curtis had spotted various novas in Andromeda and argued it was not a "nebula" but instead that it was a separate galaxy.

The discussion wasn't concluded until 1925 when Edwin Hubble identified a special kind of star known as a Cepheid variable  a star whose characteristics allow for precise measurements of distance  within Andromeda. Because Shapley had previously determined that the Milky Way was only 100,000 light-years across, Hubble's calculations revealed that the fuzzy patch was too far away to lie within the Milky Way.

Andromeda expert Q&A

University of California, Irvine University of California, Irvine Virginia L. Trimble Professor of Physics and Astronomy Virginia Trimble is an astronomer who has studied the structure and evolution of stars, galaxies, and the universe. A trailblazing female astronomer, one-time "Miss Twilight Zone," and former annual chronicler of astronomy research, her current work focuses on the history of science and on scientometrics, the study of the scientific literature.

What are some major similarities and differences between Andromeda and our Milky Way galaxy? Both are intermediate-type spirals, probably with 3-D central bars (not very strong ones). M31 is often reported as somewhat more massive. Both central black holes are fairly inactive (M31 is even less active than the Milky Way at least at present). M31 probably has more globular clusters. Both have families of a dozen or more dwarf galaxies around them, the Milky Way's dwarf galaxies are better inventoried than M31 because they're easier to observe. How similar would they look if we could see both from the outside? Not quite sure, because we cannot see our own from outside!

What are some ways we think Andromeda might have evolved and changed over time? The current understanding is that both the Milky Way and M31 (and large galaxies in general) have formed from mergers of a few smaller ones and ongoing accretion of dwarf galaxies. The evidence is streams of stars moving together in the Milky Way that are left from such dwarfs coming close and getting torn apart. As a result, there are lots of stars in the Milky Way that are older than the age of the fully assembled galaxy. Mergers still occur from time to time for both the Milky Way and M31. Both probably also have had their nuclei more active in the past when the central black holes experienced episodes of accreting gas and/or having a star come close enough to get torn apart (tidal disruption event) and fall into the black hole.

Why do researchers think Andromeda will collide or merge with our galaxy? The two galaxies are moving toward each other now at about 100 km/sec and are about 685,000 parsecs apart, so some interaction is inevitable. Probably a glancing collision because the Milky Way and M31 are not aimed exactly straight at one another.

How would our galaxy merging with Andromeda impact Earth and our solar system? Not predictable for certain (because there is some tiny probability of a near collision of the sun with an M31 star) but almost certainly fairly minor because the stars are so far apart compared to their sizes and the sizes of the main part of the solar system. Gas from the two galaxies will definitely collide, form a shock[wave] and very likely trigger an episode of star formation so that a few million years later, we would probably have lots more young, bright stars near enough to be naked-eye objects.

Addtional resources

Explore the Andromeda galaxy in incredible detail with this zoomable image from the Hubble space telescope. If you're interested in photographing the Andromeda galaxy, AstroBackyard has some useful resources on the equipment you'd need. Astronomy.com answers an interesting question "If the universe is expanding, why will the Milky Way and Andromeda galaxies collide?" in their Ask Astro article.

Bibliography

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NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory. "Cool, New Views of Andromeda Galaxy," accessed October 23, 2023. https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/cool-new-views-of-andromeda-galaxy

Schindler, K. "Views From Mars Hill: Andromeda Galaxy," Lowell Observatory, accessed October 23, 2023. https://lowell.edu/views-from-mars-hill-andromeda-galaxy/

Hammer F et al. "A 23 billion-year-old major merger paradigm for the Andromeda galaxy and its outskirts," Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, accessed October 23, 2023. https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/475/2/2754/4839413

McClure, B. "Andromeda galaxy: All you need to know," EarthSky, accessed October 23, 2023. https://earthsky.org/clusters-nebulae-galaxies/andromeda-galaxy-closest-spiral-to-milky-way/

Refreshing Views. "Star Clusters in Another Galaxy," accessed October 23, 2023. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlTi1vbkmnA&t=443s

Ma J et al. "Structural parameters of Mayall II = G1 in M31," Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, accessed October 23, 2023. https://academic.oup.com/mnras/article/376/4/1621/1014745?login=false

van der Marel R et al. "First Gaia Dynamics of the Andromeda System: DR2 Proper Motions, Orbits, and Rotation of M31 and M33," The Astrophysical Journal, accessed October 23, 2023. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.3847/1538-4357/ab001b

NASA Hubble Mission Team. "NASA's Hubble Shows Milky Way is Destined for Head-On Collision," accessed October 23, 2023." https://science.nasa.gov/missions/hubble/nasas-hubble-shows-milky-way-is-destined-for-head-on-collision/

Muir H. "Galactic merger to 'evict' Sun and Earth," New Scientist, accessed October 23, 2023. https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn11852-galactic-merger-to-evict-sun-and-earth/#.VDVdDvl_uVB

O'Malley-James, Jack T et al. "Swansong biospheres II: the final signs of life on terrestrial planets near the end of their habitable lifetimes," International Journal of Astrobiology, accessed October 23, 2023. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/international-journal-of-astrobiology/article/abs/swansong-biospheres-ii-the-final-signs-of-life-on-terrestrial-planets-near-the-end-of-their-habitable-lifetimes/EC5E8031028203F2EA3866C170575922

The Planetary Society. "Space-Warping Planets: The Microlensing Method," accessed October 23, 2023. https://www.planetary.org/articles/space-warping-planets-the-microlensing-method
President Yoon Suk-yeol returned on Thursday morning from a six-day state visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar that netted deals worth trillions of won for Korean companies.

Korean firms signed memoranda of understanding and contracts worth a total of $15.6 billion with Saudi Arabia and $4.6 billion with Qatar, according to presidential secretary for economic affairs Choi Sang-mok.

In Saudi Arabia, Yoon and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman agreed to expand and diversify bilateral investment away from a narrow focus on oil to infrastructure, electric vehicles, shipbuilding and smart farming.

Korean companies also hope for a foothold in the fabled Neom project to build a futuristic city in the northwestern province of Tabuk, bidding for a $25-billion tunnel and port construction project.
Ryu Soo-ja (80) from Incheon gave up trying to buy a hat online in July due to fears of getting scammed. "I tried to enter my credit card information and password but got worried about exposing the information," she said, "I heard about cases where people paid money but never received the products."

But many are scared of the online world and vulnerable to scams. A total of 358 cases of social media fraud were reported to an e-commerce center run by the Seoul city government last year and 41.3 percent of the victims were over 50.

Online banking usage also rose to 53.5 percent for those in their 60s and to over 20 percent among the over-70s.

According to a study by the Ministry of Science and ICT and National Information Society Agency, online shopping by senior citizens more than doubled from 17.5 percent in 2019 to 42.4 percent last year among those in their 60s and from 15.4 percent to 23.5 percent among the over-70s.

Elderly Koreans are using online services more and more, but many still struggle despite support from the government and are vulnerable to digital fraud.

A 68-year-old Seoul resident does not buy anything on the internet. "I received a text message on my phone about aid money from the government during the coronavirus pandemic and put in my bank information," he said. "Later I found out that W1,000 was being withdrawn every month. My son had to help me solve the problem" (US$1=W1,350).

"Now I'm afraid of getting scammed again, so I don't do any financial transactions on my phone," he added.

A 65-year-old in the southern port city of Pohang said, "I feel bad asking my son for help every time I have to buy something on the internet."

An officer at the National Police Agency warned, "You should stop any online transaction if the business details of the seller cannot be verified and call the police. But it's not easy for senior citizens to look for such information."

Jeong Se-eun, a professor at Chungnam National University said, "Senior citizens should be taught how to deal with internet fraud and get help."

The government spends tens of billions of won every year to teach senior citizens how to use online services, but critics say they are ineffective. The main reason is that the elderly are often not even familiar with the devices that are being used.

Song Joo-in (69) from Songpa in southern Seoul said, "I took digital classes for several months at a community center, but I'm not used to handling smartphones, so the class was difficult to follow."

A 76-year-from Eunpyeong in northeastern Seoul attended a class run by a senior citizens' center for three months on how to use digital devices but said such lessons were not helpful in everyday life. "I'm not familiar with smartphone functions, so I end up going to a bank branch or turn to others for help," she said.

The government set aside a W69.8 billion budget this year to teach senior citizens to use digital kiosks and other devices, but critics say more intuitive training is necessary for people who are unfamiliar with digital screens and the baffling images they display.

Lee Min-ah at Chungang University said, "The current government training method simply doesn't reflect the reality of senior citizens. The government needs to listen to their opinions and improved the way they are taught these things."
This is a moment in the Middle East where everyone is trying to work out what everyone else will do tomorrow. When will Israel begin its ground invasion? How will Iran and its Lebanese proxy Hezbollah, bristling with rockets, then respond? But in defence ministries and the royal palaces of the region minds are turning to the rubble the day after. If Hamas is driven out of the strip, could this be an opportunity for Gaza to be handed over to an Arab-led UN peacekeeping force? And could Israel be encouraged to normalise with Saudi Arabia in exchange for a new Oslo Process 2.0? The Europeans are hardly mentioned in these conversations. Its not just that they are seen to lack the unity or the military to make much of a difference. They are also seen to lack the creativity. And that is perhaps the most damning thing of all.
Perilla chef Ben Marks then cooks on February 26; his offering is designed around Menton lemons. The timing is a nod to the Fete Du Citron, the annual French carnival celebrating Menton's citrus fruits, which has taken place every February since 1875. The festival is famous for its floats, which are made up of oranges and lemons.
Diane Abbott was born in Paddington, London, and went on to study history at Cambridge. The politician was the first Black woman to be elected to Parliament, in 1987, and has been the MP for Hackney North and Stoke Newington since then. She also founded the London Schools and the Black Child programme, which aims to help black children achieve in the classroom.
Scotland Yard said no offences had been committed but there are some situations where the presence of a flag or banner or the use of specific words or phrases could be seen as intimidation.
He said around 300 foreign prisoners a year could be affected by the decision to extend the scope of the early release scheme, though an accurate number is difficult to determine as it depends on factors including the Home Office capacity to carry out deportations.
Carollo and Alfaraz say they recognise this dilemma all too well. As LGBTQ+ influencers going by their brand name Arif and Ricky, they feel a pressure to say something when incidents like the Two Brewers attack take place. "But we have this dichotomy: on the one side we want to be out there and show the world that we are who we are and that we should be allowed to hold hands," they explain. "But on the other side, we want to survive. The question is how much were prepared to put our life in danger to make our point. If a group of people come up to us and we're just a two, the only thing we can do at this point is run. It's very difficult to be truly ourselves 100 per cent of the time because we don't know how people will react."
Thousands of Palestinians have already died in retaliatory strikes by Israel and an even greater loss of life could come if it launches a full invasion aimed at crushing Hamas, the militant group which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.
Only 10,984 babies were born in August, the lowest number on record for the month. Compared to the same month last year, there were 2,798 fewer births, a decrease of 12.8 percent that was the steepest in 33 months.

According to Statistics Korea on Wednesday, the number of births only spiked in January at 23,179 and March with 21,138, otherwise the figure has been hovering around 10,000.

It was the first August when fewer than 20,000 children were born.

Typically, the number of births is higher at the beginning of the year and then decreases, which bodes ill for the rest of the year. Statistics Korea projects total births this year at around 230,000, which translates into a total fertility rate of around 0.72 to 0.73 child. This would be even worse than last year's 0.78.

This meant that the population dwindled by 1,556 people in August, the 46th month of declines in a row.
And obviously I do not wish to criticise any Irish officials, but when things are said about my country I need to respond to that, especially at a time of war when there is a lot of misinformation being circled around in the social networks, in the media.
The poll also showed that the Conservatives were also risk of losing votes over the stance on Israel, with the just 0.6 per cent saying they would vote for the party compared to nine per cent in 2019.
Most importantly, she was an amazing granddaughter, cousin and niece. We are heartbroken she has gone, but forever grateful she was here. Yahel was remembered for her singing and dancing. Her family in the UK said they were left with "a Yahel-shaped hole in our lives that can never be filled".
"We attach high importance to this case and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities."
He said a pause would be "different to a ceasefire, which is a total cessation of hostilities, which I don't think recognises properly the situation that Israel finds itself in, in respect of this attack from Hamas which has to be dealt with by Israel".
The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said on Thursday that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed. The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas attack.
The biggest lesson, I really now believe today in 2023 looking back, is not only must you be tenacious, not only must you be grateful, but you also have to be flexible.
A man was injured on Wednesday morning when the pavement suddenly collapsed on a traffic island connecting the crosswalk in front of IFC Mall in Yeouido, Seoul.

The man, who is in his 30s, fell into in the gaping hole and had to be treated for minor injuries in hospital.
Being the Amazons little brother has its drawbacks. Often touted as the lungs of the world, the enormous Amazon jungle gets all the attention. But there are five large Latin American rainforests that are key to the survival of thousands of species: the Maya Forest (Mexico, Belize and Guatemala); the Moskitia (Nicaragua and Honduras); the Indio Maiz-Tortuguero (Nicaragua and Costa Rica); La Amistad (Costa Rica and Panama); and the Darien, between Panama and Colombia. These five Mesoamerican ecosystems are key links in an intercontinental biological chain.

Comprising less than 5% of the planets area, these ecosystems host an estimated 8% of the worlds biodiversity. With 210 million acres (85 million hectares) of forest, they provide a crucial corridor for species traveling between the American continents. This is why Oscar Nunez, director of the Wildlife Conservation Societys (WCS) Five Forests project, says these ecosystems must be saved at all cost. We need to intervene before they are destroyed, he said in his presentation at the 2023 Latin American and Caribbean Climate Week (LACCW) conference in Panama City.

Nunez is concerned for several reasons. The five Mesoamerican giants, like the Amazon and other forests in the region, are severely threatened by the rapid spread of livestock ranches. The WCS estimates that 90% of the areas deforestation is caused by illegal ranching. Nunez also says the current El Nino phenomenon might be as destructive as the one in 1997 and 1998.

An earthmover slashes a path in the Mayan jungle for a new passenger train; Akumal, Mexico; August 2022. Eduardo Verdugo (AP)

There are parallels between the two time periods, like the dramatic large wildfires in Greece, Canada, Indonesia, Central America and Hawaii. WCS has data to reinforce empirical observations. In the five major Mesoamerican forests, rainfall has significantly decreased by nearly 23%. We are in a rainfall deficit, said Nunez, who urges governments and international organizations to sound the alarms and pay attention to the forests everyone else is ignoring.

The five great forests of Mesoamerica  they compete (in a good way) with the Congo and the Amazon when it comes to resources, said Nunez. But they are crucial not just for the interconnection of species, but also for the Indigenous peoples who live in and take care of these forests. Some have already suffered major damage: in the last 15 years, the Maya Forest has lost an estimated 25% of its trees; the Moskitia has lost 30%; and the Indio Maiz has lost 23%.

A yellow-breasted toucan in the Darien jungle, Panama. Getty Images

Nunez is not yet sure whether the Darien, the largest preserve in Central America and the Caribbean (1.43 million acres or 579,000 hectares), will be affected by the growing influx of migrants traveling through the area. The important thing is that the migrants dont start crossing other parts of the Darien, because right now they just go through a small piece of the tail, he said.

The WCS and other conservation organizations like ReWild and Mesoamerican Alliance of Peoples and Forests (CIAT) are now publicizing the crisis facing the Mesoamerican forests and reclaiming what can still be saved. Their goals include protecting 25 million acres (10 million hectares) of forest and restoring another 1.2 million acres. They are also combatting species extinction and illegal livestock ranches, which is the most challenging battle. Ultimately, the goal is to draw attention to these often overlooked forests, shining a light on their significance and value.

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CIS Gaz signs memorandum of cooperation with Egyptian gas transmission company Town Gas

CIS Gaz continues the process of expanding and consolidating its presence in Egypt and has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Town Gas, the largest gas transmission company in Egypt.

According to a press release sent to AGERPRES on Thursday, through this memorandum the two companies will jointly support mutually beneficial projects in the area of natural gas transmission.

CIS Gaz participated, between October 9 and 11, with the support of the Romanian Embassy to the Arab Republic of Egypt, in extensive discussions with two of the most important Egyptian companies in the energy sector, Town Gas and EGAS, which develop complex projects in the public and private energy sector, in areas such as Cairo (gas supply station of the New Cairo district, operated by Town Gas) or Alexandria (gas supply station of the city of Alexandria, operated by Town Gas).

According to the quoted source, together with EGAS, the national company that operates the natural gas transmission network in Egypt, options for the completion of the Hayah Karima project, run by the Egyptian Government, in which CIS Gaz is a supplier of equipment manufactured in Romania, were analysed. Hayah Karima is a national project run by the Egyptian government through which more than 1,400 villages will be connected to the natural gas network.

CIS GAZ is a 100% privately owned Romanian company founded in 1990 and is currently one of the most important players in the oil and gas industry in Romania. Since 2022, CIS Gaz has also been a member of The International Pipe Line and Offshore Contractors Association.

AGERPRES
The European Consumer Center (ECC Romania), a department within the National Authority for Consumer Protection (ANPC), recovered 225,000 euros for consumers in the first nine months of this year, according to a press release sent to AGERRES on Thursday.

According to the source, ECC Romania has competence in the amicable settlement of cross-border consumer disputes, respectively those disputes arising as a result of the purchase by a consumer resident in Romania of defective products/services from a trader based in another EU member state.

Also, ECC Romania has competence in resolving disputes arising as a result of the purchase by a consumer resident in another EU member state of defective products/services from a trader based in Romania.

During this period, ECC Romania processed approximately 4,700 requests received from Romanian consumers and 155 requests from consumers from other EU member states, including Norway, Iceland and Great Britain, sent through the European Consumer Centers from the states of residence of consumers.

The structure of the complaints received included five main areas, respectively: 37% transport (air, road, rail, naval and car rentals), 20% clothing and footwear, 11% various products and services (financial services, personal items - watches, jewelry, care products, other services), 10% furniture, household equipment and routine household maintenance (appliances, furniture) and 9% recreation and culture (electronics, sporting goods, camping, pets, concerts, museums etc).

"Compared to the same period last year, the share of requests related to air transport services (flight cancellations or delays) registered a significant decrease, of about 15%, although they remain at the top of the list of domains that generate consumer complaints", the press release reads.

At the same time, compared to the same reference period, "the number of requests for online purchases has increased significantly, whether we are talking about clothing and footwear, various services, personal items or household appliances".

ECC Romania is part of the Network of European Consumer Centers (ECC-Net) which includes 29 centers from all 27 EU member states plus Iceland, Norway.
Anita Soina remembers a time when her community used to herd cows, sheep, and goats to the banks of the Mara River in her native Kenya. We would fetch water and wash clothes, bathe and water the animals, says the 23-year-old Maasai with a nostalgic smile. A victim of droughts, deforestation, mining, resource mismanagement, and climate change, the landscape around the Mara River today is nothing like the one she remembers, she said in an article of the global alliance Sanitation and Water for All written by Christine Luby. There is no water left and the land looks brittle. Seeing it breaks my heart. I feel a rage inside me that has turned into a motivation to fight, she says. And fight she does. Soina has become a climate change activist, one of more than 100 from around the world who arrived in Barcelona in October to share their ideas and projects as part of an international campaign for climate justice.

The climate in our region is extreme. Rainfall has been progressively reduced, causing droughts. At the same time, when there is some rainfall, we are affected by floods. This has degraded the land and brought pastoralists to a critical situation. The cattle are dying of thirst and starvation, Soina says as she caresses her Maasai necklace, made of small colored beads. Her community, one of the largest pastoralist communities in East Africa, has been feeling the effects of climate change for decades and its members have been forced to migrate and adapt to weather factors. Deforestation and mining are increasingly severe, Soina explains, and cultivation has become, at times, impossible, aggravating an already severe food security crisis.

Access to water is, in short, a real challenge for her community. But the problem does not end there. With water scarcity comes conflict and inequalities, Soina says, providing some examples. For starters, it prevents young women and girls, who are often the main water carriers, from completing their studies and contributes to an increase in child marriages in exchange for money or livestock for families. It also affects menstrual hygiene, which can be detrimental to womens health. Over 86% of girls aged between nine and 13 live in rural areas in Kenya and 80.8% of them attend elementary school, but only 14.3% go on to enroll in high school, according to data from Newcastle University. In her community, Soina continues, the discussion about access to water is very different from among global organizations: You are talking about clean, safe water; we are talking about any kind of water at all.

SDGs, an inspiration

Soina has been an activist since she was 17, when she first became interested in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They are my inspiration. My mentor introduced them to me and it seemed to me that the best way to contribute to society was climate action, because climate change is at the heart of everything. In the end, it is a serious threat to global food security, sustainable development, and poverty eradication, and its consequences affect many different aspects of life. Its interconnected and its happening now, she says with a defiant look.

Her earliest projects were focused on planting trees. But she quickly realized that many young activists, including herself, felt alienated from sustainability and conservation because of the technical language used in those fields, which makes it difficult to share knowledge with younger people, she explains on the platform Sanitation and Water for All. I began to explore ways to make conservation more appealing and simplify the discourse, with the purpose of engaging more people, especially young people, in this process. My goal was to attract more individuals and show that you dont need a degree in environmental science to get involved, she told the alliance.

To this end, she wrote her book The Green War, which explains environmentalism in simple terms and actions for the non-scientific community. She also founded Spice Warriors, an environmental organization that she defines as a passionate community of environmental warriors. They focus on climate education for school children, but also for youth, leaders, and society in general. They also organize activities related to the environment, ranging from tree growing and forest restoration, cleaning beaches and natural environments, to activism both on the ground and on social networks. We learn, educate, and act, says Soina, who was one of the youngest representatives to attend COP26, held in late 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland.

She recently created the Soina Foundation, a non-profit organization that seeks to support affected rural communities, especially the Maasai, in accessing basic needs such as education. At the same time, the foundation addresses other social issues such as sanitation, health, education, and sexual and reproductive well-being. As a subject matter expert, last January Soina began a two-year term as Global Youth Champion for the UNICEF-hosted Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) global partnership.

Educating political leaders

Soinas work has a major impact on her community but she notes it remains a priority for politicians as well. In my country, for example, many legislators dont even know about the Paris Climate Agreement. They dont know whats going on with climate change and water scarcity. When they dont have information, they dont participate, she told Sanitation and Water for All. As such, in 2022, she became the youngest person ever to run for Kenyas National Assembly. I knew that one day I would run for political office, she admits with a chuckle. I always wanted to try to influence change from within the corridors of power.

Although her first electoral attempt was unsuccessful, her efforts caught the attention of Senator Moses Otieno Kajwang, who invited her to join him in a project that educates Kenyan lawmakers and parliamentarians on environmental issues. Environmental education is extremely important, not only among young people, but also among political leaders. The change is there, she says. We activists cannot fight climate change alone. Lets get everyone on board, let everyone speak and, above all, lets listen to each other.

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Representatives of the Foreign Investors Council (FIC) conveyed to the authorities the concerns of large-scale investors regarding the new turnover tax measure and its impact on the economy, as well as a series of recommendations that could reduce the imbalances in the tax system and would help avoid certain economic stalemate situations, FIC informs in a release on Thursday.

"We understand the macroeconomic context we are in, we are aware of the government's efforts to reduce the budget deficit and we support the fiscal reform plan as set forth in the NRRP (elimination of exceptions, broadening the tax base etc.). But the turnover tax is something we did not expect, because it is non-existent in most countries, with only a few exceptions in Africa and Asia, and only for certain sectors and over a limited period - in Poland and Hungary. Profit margins are not directly proportional to the size of turnover, but depend on the specifics of the industry the companies operate in, as well as on market conditions. There can be companies with a very high turnover, but operating with very small margins and contributing massively in the area of payroll taxes or indirect taxes (VAT and excise duties), which are very important in collections to the state budget and the economy. Estimates show that those companies whose profitability is below the 3 percent threshold will finance the minimum turnover tax from other sources, so practically they will turn in all the profit to the budget and they will bring money from home. Therefore, we consider that the current legislation needs three important amendments: ensuring a fair tax treatment and taking into account the industry-specific rate of return when calculating the turnover tax, limiting the applicability of the turnover tax in time, and increasing tax collection, because the latter would solve the situation of budget deficits in the future," FIC president Daniel Anghel declared.

For over 25 years, FIC member companies have been registered and are paying taxes in Romania, alone in 2022 the contribution of FIC member companies to the consolidated general budget is estimated at 84 billion RON, which represents 20 percent of the current state revenues in the respective year. Also, their investments have the end of the 1990s as a starting point, which proves their commitment to investing in Romania in the long term. 2022 investments by FIC companies stood at over 10 billion RON, representing 25 percent of capital expenditures, according to the execution of the consolidated budget.

The Foreign Investors Council includes the most important investors with foreign capital in Romania, approximately 120 of the largest companies in the country with a combined turnover that stands at a fifth of GDP and that have a significant contribution to the state budget.
ForMin Odobescu, Saudi counterpart discuss Israel security in phone call

Romania's Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu on Wednesday had a telephone conversation with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud to discuss the security state of play in Israel and the Gaza Strip, as well as the risk of conflict escalation in the region.

According to the Romanian Foreign Ministry (MAE), the need to protect all civilians, the safe evacuation of foreign citizens from the Gaza Strip and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages were discussed during the call. At the same time, the importance of humanitarian action in support of the Palestinian population in the Gaza Strip was emphasised.

The two foreign ministers agreed on the need to intensify diplomatic efforts, including within the EU- Saudi Arabia-League of Arab States three-way initiative, with the aim of achieving comprehensive peace in the Middle East.

The conversation also offered an opportunity to assess prospects for strengthening the bilateral dialogue by capitalising on common opportunities at the political and sectoral level.

AGERPRES
President Klaus Iohannis sent on Thursday a message of condolences to the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, following the armed attack in Lewiston, Maine.

"On behalf of the Romanian citizens and myself, I send you my deepest condolences for the loss of so many innocent lives in the brutal armed attack in Lewiston, Maine. In these times of sadness and pain, Romania stands in solidarity with the American citizens and with the families of the victims, to whom we convey our thoughts of compassion. We wish, at the same time, a speedy recovery for those wounded," reads the message of President Klaus Iohannis.

At least 22 people have been killed and dozens more wounded in multiple gun attacks in the northeastern US state of Maine, with the suspect still at large, according to several US media and local authorities, informs AFP.
Romania reports 82 confirmed, 21 suspected West Nile infection cases

As many as 82 confirmed West Nile cases and 21 suspected infections with the said virus were recorded as of October 26 since the beginning of the monitoring period for this disease, on June 6, the National Public Health Institute (INSP) informs.

According to INSP, 12 deaths from the West Nile virus were registered in the counties of: Bihor (1), Braila (1), Ilfov (3), Dolj (3), Prahova (1), Satu Mare (2), Sibiu (1).

AGERPRES
Romania will continue to support Ukraine, including from a military point of view, on Thursday said in Brussels the Romanian premier Marcel Ciolacu.

He made the clarifications after being asked if Romania can send more ammunition to Ukraine.

"There was a clear contribution and help regarding Ukraine, on Romania's behalf. It was multidimensional. The biggest help we gave to Ukraine was the economic help and the transit help regarding grains from Ukraine, which will continue. As you well know, I also had a joint government meeting with Ukraine, in Kyiv, together with my colleagues, and we agreed exactly the procedure for the transit and eventual export of grains on Romanian territory, which is very limited by a licensing system, approved and accepted by the Commission as well. There will be help from Romania in the military area as well," Ciolacu told a press conference held after the PES leaders' meeting.
President Joe Biden says his visit to Vietnam to showcase stronger ties with Hanoi isn't about trying to start a cold war with China. He says it's part of a broader effort to provide global stability by building U.S. relationships throughout Asia at a time of tensions with Beijing.
DETROIT (AP)  The United Auto Workers union said Wednesday it has reached a tentative contract agreement with Ford that could be a breakthrough toward ending the nearly 6-week-old strikes against Detroit automakers.

The four-year deal, which still has to be approved by 57,000 union members at the company, could bring a close to the unions series of strikes at targeted factories run by Ford, General Motors and Jeep maker Stellantis.

The Ford deal could set the pattern for agreements with the other two automakers, where workers will remain on strike. The UAW called on all workers at Ford to return to their jobs and said that will put pressure on GM and Stellantis to bargain. Announcements on how to do that will come later.

We told Ford to pony up, and they did, President Shawn Fain said in a video address to members. We won things no one thought possible. He added that Ford put 50% more money on the table than it did before the strike started on Sept. 15.

UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, the chief negotiator with Ford, said workers will get a 25% general wage increase, plus cost of living raises that will put the pay increase over 30%, to above $40 per hour for top-scale assembly plant workers by the end of the contract.

Previously Ford, Stellantis and General Motors had all offered 23% pay increases. When the talks started Ford offered 9%.

Assembly workers will get 11% upon ratification, almost equal to all of the wage increases workers have seen since 2007, Browning said.

Typically, during past auto strikes, a UAW deal with one automaker has led to the other companies matching it with their own settlements.

GM said in a statement it is "working constructively" with the union to reach an agreement as soon as possible. Stellantis also said it's committed to reaching a deal that gets everyone back to work as soon as possible.

Browning said temporary workers will get more in wage increases than they have over the past 22 years combined. Temporary workers will get raises over 150% and retirees will get annual bonuses, he said.

Thanks to the power of our members on the picket line and the threat of more strikes to come, we have won the most lucrative agreement per member since Walter Reuther was president, Browning said. Reuther led the union from 1946 until his death in 1970.

Fain said that the unions national leadership council of local union presidents and bargaining chairs will travel Sunday to Detroit, where theyll get a presentation on the agreement and vote on whether to recommend it to members. Sunday evening the union will host a Facebook Live video appearance and later will hold regional meetings to explain the deal to members.

While on the picket line at Fords Michigan Assembly Plant west of Detroit Wednesday night, local union leaders invited workers across the road to the union hall for a briefing on the deal. As they trickled out of the building, many were smiling and most were relieved.

Its an emotional time for me. Im emotional, worker Keith Jurgelewicz said as his eyes welled up with tears. But just super excited that this is over with. I just cant wait to get back to work and just get on with my life.

Jurgelewicz said he is happy that the end of the strike came during his shift on the picket lines, where he has faithfully appeared for all of his shifts.

Hopefully, GM and Stellantis can get their deals done.  Historic day for us, he said.

In a statement, President Joe Biden, who had visited GM picketers near Detroit early in the strikes and has billed himself the most union-friendly president in American history, praised the settlement. Ive always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class, Biden said. This tentative agreement is a testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table in a manner that helps businesses succeed while helping workers secure pay and benefits they can raise a family on.

Workers with pensions also will see increases for when they retire, and those hired after 2007 with 401(k) plans will get large increases, Browning said. For the first time, the union will have the right to go on strike over company plans to close factories, he said.

That means they can't keep devastating our communities and closing plants with no consequences, Browning said. Together we have made history.

Ford said it is pleased to have reached the deal, and said it would focus on restarting the huge Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, as well as the Chicago Assembly Plant. The Louisville plant alone employs 8,700 workers and makes high profit heavy duty F-Series pickup trucks and big truck-based SUVs.

In all, 20,000 workers will be coming back on the job and shipping the companys full lineup of vehicles to customers, Ford said.

Fords statement made no mention of the cost of the contract. Company executives said last week they were at the limit of what they could pay while still being able to invest in new vehicles and the transition from internal combustion to electric vehicles. All three companies have said they don't want to be saddled with high labor costs that could limit their ability to invest in future vehicles and potentially force them to raise prices.

This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry. Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country, Fain said.
The week of July 19 through 26, 711 was crucial in the history of the Iberian Peninsula. Between those days, the decisive battle was fought between the troops of the Umayyad Caliphate of Damascus, led by Tariq ibn Ziyad, with the Visigoth Army, commanded by King Rodrigo. The rout of the Visigoths led to the invasion of the Peninsula and a radical change in the prevailing customs and culture.

According to traditional interpretations, the battlefield was located on the banks of the Guadalete River (near Arcos de la Frontera in Cadiz province, Spain), but now the double report The battle of the Montes Transductinos: location and reconstruction of the itineraries of the battle that decided the fate of the Visigoth kingdom, published in the Spanish Association of Military History journal Atenea, places the fight on the Almodovar River, between the Torrejosa hill (near Facinas, in Tarifa province) and the lagoon of the Janda, about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Guadalete.

In addition to primary sources, geographical, strategic, logistical testimonies and Lidar laser technology were used to determine the exact location. For its part, another study, Drought as a possible contributor to the Visigothic Kingdom crisis and Islamic expansion in the Iberian Peninsula, published last September in the journal Nature, points to a chronic lack of rain as the main trigger of the Visigoths defeat.

The article in Atenea  by Jose Soto Chica, Eduardo Kavanagh, Francisco Jose Jimenez Espejo, Monica Camacho Calderon, Jon Camuera, Kenza Mdehheb, Ana Maria Berenjeno and Jose Turrillo  recalls that various locations had previously been suggested, but these proposals forget or marginalize a determining geographical fact provided by the only contemporary literary source of the events: the Mozarabic Chronicle of the year 754, which makes it crystal clear that the combat took place in the Transductinis Promonturiis (Transductine Mountains). And they completely ignore the logistics of the opposing armies and their way of fighting.

The problem, therefore, is where the Transductine Mountains are located, which these experts did not hesitate to place around Iula Traducta (in Algeciras province) and have ruled out Gibraltar, for linguistic and documentary reasons. They can only be the mountain ranges that form an arch that protects the bay of Algeciras from the interior. A belt of not very high mountains, but very broken, that rose like a wall between the lowlands of the bay and the marshes of the lagoon of La Janda and Barbate, they write.

Since Tariq had his logistical base in Algeciras, and since Rodrigo marched against him from Cordoba, it would have to be assumed that the battle was fought at one of the points where the main roads crossed the Transductine Mountains on their route from Cordoba to Algeciras, the article details. Furthermore, there can be no doubt that the place called El Lago, where various Arab sources say the battle took place, corresponds to the ancient and now drained lagoon of La Janda. A lagoon that was dominated by a mountain (Torrejosa hill) from which Tariq saw King Rodrigo and his army coming.

The experts also unravel the linguistic confusion that led to the belief that the battle took place in Guadalete. Arabic sources speak of the place as Wadi Lakko (Lake River), which was transformed into Wadi Bekka, Wadi Lakka, Wadi Lekke, Vedelac, Vadalaca, Guadalec, and Guadalete. Confusion promoted by the absence of vowels and the usual difficulty of the Arabic spelling of the time. Where LKK was originally written, it ended up being written as BKK. From which it is easy to conclude that the original hydronym was Wadi Lakko and that it cannot be Guadalete, since it was not next to the La Janda lagoon, nor on the Cordoba-Algeciras route. Confusion that would lead Archbishop Jimenez de Rada in 1243 to write it down as Vedelac or Vadalac, and which later copyists and historians of his work, like Claudio Sanchez-Albornoz, would transform into Guadalec and Guadalete. Albornoz is one of the great Spanish historians and no one dared to contradict him. But new advances rule out Guadalete as the site of the battle, says Soto-Chica, professor of History at the University of Granada.

The signatories have also reconstructed the battle. To do so, it is essential to know how many troops there were and see if the terrain fits their deployment, as well as the tactics and manner in which they fought. Thus, a careful reconstruction of the landscape from the beginning of the 8th century was carried out, based on paleoenvironmental studies, a meticulous analysis of the territory using plans at different scales, place names, maps from the 16th to 20th centuries, aerial photos, Lidar [laser] images, and visits.

View of the depression of La Janda from the hill of La Alcachofa.

The Visigoths lined up in three large groups or sections: two flanks commanded by nobles and the center, led by Rodrigo. During the fight, the flanks betrayed the king, and he died alongside his faithful warriors as well as many of the traitors. The nobles who betrayed Rodrigo are named in most Arab sources as Oppas and Siseberto, brothers of King Witiza, who died 19 months earlier.

Tariq crossed the strait first with his most veteran troops, the muqatila  Arab, Egyptian, and Syrian fighters who constituted the core of the Umayyad army and numbered 1,700 in total. Count Julian, governor of Ceuta, supported him with his fleet, allowing 7,000 more Berber warriors to disembark. There is news of a third landing, as a diversionary maneuver, carried out by Abu Zora Tarif in the place that bears his name: Tarifa. An operation with three landing points (Gibraltar, Tarifa and Algeciras) would confuse the defenders, create an operational and strategic dilemma for them by spreading their resources, and multiply the invaders chances of success. Eventually, after the first battle with the local forces, Musa Ibn Nusayr, governor of Umayyad North Africa, sent a final reinforcement of 5,000 men, thus leaving Tariq with just over 13,000 troops.

The Muslim Army was composed of Berbers and troops from the Calbi tribes of Yemen, Banu Qurais of Central Arabia, Banu Gasan of Syria, Banu Lajm of Southern Iraq, and Kuwait. The Umayyad Army reached a high degree of professionalization, where Arab, Egyptian, Syrian, and Persian spearmen and archers played a key role. The Umayyads fought in close order with spearmen arranged in tight ranks. Tariqs army was divided into five bodies: the muqaddama or vanguard of archers, slingers, and light troops; the qalb, of spearmen in the center; the sufuf or infantrymen with chain mail on the right; the maysara or spearmen on the left; and the saqah or rearguard. They were arranged in three parallel lines and occupied about 650 yards of the front that protected a fortified camp with a moat.

The Visigoths, for their part, would have a military contingent of around 24,000 soldiers. An imposing army for the time and with chariots that carried the equipment. Furthermore, the best of his troops were heavy cavalry, the experts emphasize. This army was made up of three divisions, with the king in the rear surrounded by trusted men or spatharios (bodyguards). They formed mixed infantry and cavalry battalions, also arranged two or three lines deep. The battle front would extend approximately two and a half miles, hence Tariqs interest in finding terrain features that would force the Visigoths to narrow the front, such as the Almodovar river, Torrejosa hill, Alturas de Salaviciosa and Loma de la Zuya). These forced Rodrigo to give up on enveloping the enemy formations and opt for a frontal charge.

In the year 711, the La Janda area constituted an ecosystem of lagoons and ponds deeper than in 1960, when they were drained and connected to the Almodovar River. This landscape would explain why Rodrigos retreat route was cut off when his flanks betrayed him. As they retreated, the center of Rodrigos army was left with the swampy areas behind them. He died at the confluence of the Vico stream and the Almodovar river, when his horse became bogged down in the mud.

The climate and the vegetation could also have been important in the reasons that led Rodrigo to tempt fate in a pitched battle. At the time of Muslims arrival, the Iberian Peninsula was suffering a major climatic and social crisis (famine). La Betica was the power base of King Rodrigo, who had been dux (duke) of this region before his proclamation as king, a condition that could have been capital when it came to forcing him to return in haste from Pamplona. There, he was fighting his rivals in the civil war, risking his kingdom in a pitched battle and in the betrayal of the Witizanos when they found Rodrigos position especially weakened.

A study published in Nature Communications on September 15 indicates a notable increase in plants of the genus artemisia, associated with arid climatic conditions. In fact, the combination of data from 107 pollen records taken throughout the entire Peninsula, along with others extracted from caves, the confirmation of a NAO  North Atlantic Oscillation  and a considerable decrease in solar irradiation show that the Visigoth kingdom was going through a severe climate crisis defined by a formidable drought, probably one of the worst in 5,000 years, and a great drop in temperatures. In a world governed by the success or failure of harvests, such climatic conditions led the population to suffer tremendous famines, provoked social and political confrontations, and favored the spread of pandemics. The most reliable ancient Arab sources point out the effect of all of the above: the death of half of the population in the days prior to the arrival of Tariq. Miguel Angel Cuadrado, a specialist in ceramics from the Al-Andalus era at the Guadalajara Museum, highlights that the interdisciplinary discoveries made in recent years thanks to technology make it possible to change our perception of historical events that were taken for granted. And this is one of those cases.

The toponymy of the area seems to keep memory of previous war operations. Thus, for example, the place names of Arraez Alto and Arraez Bajo appear on the battlefield, arraez being the Spanish form of rais, the name that victors were called in the Arabic language. For seven days, both armies faced each other in skirmishes. All this, not to mention that there persists an ancient tradition in nearby Facinas that is treasured by its parish priests that King Rodrigo was buried there. Because it is not known where the body of the dethroned king is, although now we know where he died. Stuck in the mud.

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Getting primaried.

A relatively new term in American politics, the phrase describes when incumbents who likely would win a general election get derailed by losing a primary fight.

The latest murmurs of getting primaried now involve U.S. Rep. Cori Bush, who has drawn more fire than usual over her recent stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict.

One organization is floating the possibility of having a Democrat oppose the incumbent St. Louis Democrat in the August 2024 primary.

Robert Schwartz, executive director of Show Me Primary, said his group is eyeing the 1st Congressional District seat held by Bush, who he called a lightning rod.

Schwartz said Bush has failed to condemn Hamas for its terrorism or stand with Israel and does not represent the interests of her voters.

For that reason, we would be open to a qualified, serious candidate to challenge her, he said this week.

The group also shared a post from former U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo., who said Bush should be drawing criticism for her stance.

Schwartz, a St. Louis native who lives in the Washington, D.C., area, said the group also is working in New Hampshire, as Primary Pivot, to convince undeclared voters to register as Republicans and vote against former President Donald Trump in the 2024 GOP primary, he said.

This would not be a first challenge for Bush, who in 2020 upset longtime incumbent U.S. Rep. William Lacy Clay.

She was opposed in the 2022 primary by state Sen. Steven Roberts of St. Louis. Bush easily defeated Roberts, whose campaign was dogged by past allegations of sexual harassment.

But this time around, a challenge could get a boost from the local Jewish community, which is prevalent in University City, Creve Coeur and Olivette, all in Bushs district.

We feel extremely united, said Stacey Newman, a nine-year veteran of the Missouri House and former chair of its progressive caucus.

Newman, who is Jewish, then cast that assessment in a darker light: Its based on fear; its fear really. Where are we safe, and who will protect us?

The concerns in the Jewish community, she said, went beyond specific disagreements over any vote.

This is about more than just ineffective legislation. Its about it being a danger to (a group of) her constituents, she said.

Newman said Bushs position is especially troubling when paired with pro-Palestinian protests being led by progressive activists with little understanding of Middle East history.

As to challengers, Newman noted that the August primary still was about 10 months away. And she said local Jewish leaders just now are shaking off the initial impact of Hamas attack.

I think were moving from shock to fact-finding, she said.

That impending shift of focus was echoed by a major player in U.S. politics: the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a powerful, well-funded lobbying group.

AIPACs power does not come from giving large amounts of money, an article in The Nation explains. Rather, it wields influence from telling other pro-Israel political action committees on how they should, and should not, give out theirs. The article calls it a strategy of reward and retribution.

When asked this week about aiding a challenge of Bush, AIPAC spokesperson Marshall Wittmann said:

There will be a time for political action, but right now our priority is building and sustaining congressional support for Israels fight to permanently dismantle Hamas, which perpetrated the barbaric, terrorist attack on the Jewish state.

Wittmann noted that AIPAC has targeted Bush in several social media posts, including one on Oct. 15 for a cease-fire:

Calling for a cease-fire now is a transparent ploy by (Bush) and the anti-Israel squad to paint Israel as the aggressor and allow Hamas to stay in power, the organization said.

Emgage Action, AIPACs counterpart as an umbrella group for Islamic issues and operator of the largest Muslim-American political action committee, supported the recent push by Bush to have a cease-fire declared.

As to its position on a possible primary challenge to Bush, the organization did not respond to questions sent twice by email and could not be reached Wednesday by telephone.

Schwartzs primary plan does face obstacles: With Missouri having contested races in the 2024 Republican primary, including for governor and attorney general, one political source said it would be tough to get GOP voters to grab a Democratic ballot.

I think (Schwartzs group) would aim more at moderate Democrats and independents, voters who often do not take part in primaries, said the source, who did not want to be named.

A challenger to Bush would, however, face a campaign that at least now seems short on money and possibly leadership.

The latest Federal Election Commission report shows that Bushs campaign has less than $20,000 cash on hand, lower than any other Missouri congressional member.

Along with a low cash reserve, the campaign also is $130,000 in debt. The debts are not owed to miscellaneous service providers but to several major players who work with progressive candidates in numerous national campaigns.

Raising money to make up for any shortfalls also may be an uphill battle, another publication contends. The Free Beacon reported last week that Bush and other members of The Squad  a group of progressive legislators who consistently oppose aid to Israel  are struggling to raise campaign cash.

The Squads lackluster fundraising could pose a problem as its members fight to keep their seats in what could be a contentious election cycle, the article states.

On top of that, Bushs campaign manager for the last year, Adrastos Da Silva, took to social media on Aug. 9 to say he was transitioning out of Bushs campaign.

Bushs campaign did not respond to three emails requesting an interview.

Schwartz, of Show Me Primary, insists the issue is not a case of partisan politics.

He said the groups first effort was last summer, when it encouraged Missouri Democrats to vote for Eric Schmitt in the U.S. Senate GOP primary  solely to ensure that former Gov. Eric Greitens would not win.

We realize there is extremism and misinformation being spread on both sides of the aisle, Schwartz said. Our aim is simply to defeat extremists.
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ROLLA, Mo.  Shawn Scrivens vacillated when the judge asked him an important question.

It was March 7, 2019. Phelps County Circuit Judge William Hinkle wanted to know if Scrivens understood the ramifications of his guilty plea. Its one of a series of questions judges ask before they sentence defendants in criminal cases. Are they happy with their attorney? Do they understand what theyre pleading guilty to? Are they doing so voluntarily?

Scrivens had just pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He had a long criminal record  mostly related to drug addiction and theft  and he faced the potential of landing in state prison for a decade.

Thats where Scrivens wanted to go  state prison  to get out of the Phelps County Jail, where he had been held for almost six months, unable to afford bail. And thats why he struggled with Hinkles question. Yes, he was pleading guilty to the crime, but not necessarily because he did it. He wanted to save his life.

Im an insulin-dependent diabetic, Scrivens told the judge. I havent had an insulin shot in 124 days.

After some back and forth, Hinkle sentenced Scrivens to 10 years. He was sent to the Department of Corrections almost immediately, and he received an insulin shot before the day was over.

His sister, Tammy Mogab, believes the judge did the right thing.

It was sort of a live-to-fight-another-day kind of thing, she says of her brothers guilty plea. The judge probably saved his life. He would have died in the Phelps County Jail.

Mogab describes her brother as a Phelps County redneck. Its not a pejorative. Hes just a good-ol boy who grew up poor in a small town; a meth problem led to several interactions with the criminal justice system.

Scrivens is in the Moberly Correctional Center now, and hes fighting  and winning  in federal court. In a David-vs.-Goliath achievement, Scrivens, with the help of another inmate, Jason Wheat, filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Phelps County and its private medical provider for the jail, Advanced Correctional Healthcare.

Wheat has become a bit of a jailhouse lawyer in prison, and he wrote the lawsuit. Toward the end of the process, a federal judge appointed an attorney for Scrivens to help get the case across the finish line.

Scrivens won a five-figure settlement against Phelps County, which I obtained in a Sunshine Law request. He won a similar settlement in May with Advanced Correctional Healthcare. Its not a lot of money, but the two settlements reinforced the point he made to the judge when he pleaded guilty: The level of care in the Phelps County Jail was abysmal.

Thats no surprise. The year before Scrivens settled his case, a federal jury paid out a massive $8.5 million award against Advanced Correctional Healthcare to the sister of Bilal Hill, whose pleas for medical help were ignored for months. Hill died of lung cancer at the age of 43 not long after he got out of the Phelps County Jail.

Mogab hopes her brother doesnt suffer the same fate.

In fact, hes filed a second federal court action, this time seeking to be set free because his guilty plea was improper.

Petitioner was denied due process of law and left with two choices, his federal lawsuit alleges, plead guilty and quickly receive medical attention at DOC; or, demand his right to trial by jury and be returned to the Phelps County Jail to suffer without medical attention.

That petition, likely a longshot, is pending in court before U.S. District Judge Ronnie White.

Scrivens is getting treatment for his diabetes in state prison, but his sister worries that enough damage has been done to his health that his plan to fight another day might backfire.

He took a plea to something he could have beat if he had the time to wait, she says.

Its the sort of Hobsons choice people in the criminal justice system have to make all the time: Take a bad deal or stay in jail, where the health care is often inadequate and too many people die because of it. Its really no choice at all. Scrivens chose a state prison sentence because he didnt want to die in the county jail.

These days, time isnt on his side.

My health isnt the greatest, he told me last week in an email. My family is just praying I make it home.
ST. LOUIS  Federal prosecutors filed charges against the former head of a St. Louis nonprofit that received about $20 million from the government to feed needy children but spent much of that money illegally on personal residences, commercial real estate and luxury goods, including an SUV valued at more than $200,000.

An indictment unsealed Thursday charged Connie Bobo, of St. Charles, with wire fraud and identify theft in connection to her use of federal money when she led New Heights Community Resource Center. It also charged her with obstruction of an official proceeding for altering a document sought by a federal subpoena.

New Heights was among organizations featured in a Post-Dispatch investigation of Missouri nonprofits use of two federal programs, the Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program, that pay for needy kids meals.

The Post-Dispatch reported in November that Bobos nonprofit had purchased a new home on Spring Mill Creek Drive in St. Charles for nearly $1 million. Bobo admitted that she lived there but said New Heights used it for its office and board meetings.

Bobo also used the money to purchase a vacant Circuit City store  appraised at nearly $2 million  at Natural Bridge Road near Interstate 270 in Bridgeton, the Post-Dispatch reported. She said she had hoped to turn the building into a headquarters for New Heights.

The indictment unsealed Thursday paints a fuller picture, saying Bobo fraudulently claimed millions of additional meals that she didnt serve and was paid $11 million she wasnt entitled to receive.

Bobos attorney, Scott Rosenblum, said Thursday that we have been in communication with the government, and we were expecting the indictment. Bobo will plead not guilty, he said.

According to the indictment, New Heights used food program money to buy five residences in St. Charles County, including Bobos house and a home in St. Peters for her sister. The real estate purchases, including the commercial properties on Natural Bridge, totaled nearly $4.4 million, prosecutors say.

Bobo also took government money to buy luxury goods and gave $1.4 million to her romantic partner, prosecutors say, who used $212,000 of it to buy a Mercedes-Benz G550 Wagon 4X4 Squared. Her partner is identified only as H.H. in the indictment. Prosecutors are seeking forfeiture of the property Bobo used the child nutrition money to purchase.

Public records show Bobo and Howard Hughes III started a business together, Howard Hughes Trucking and Construction LLC. Both are listed as co-organizers on business license paperwork and the companys listed address was the same as Bobos Spring Mill Creek home.

Hughes also runs Howard Hughes Consulting, which offers financial wealth management services and construction and development services on its website. The website also has a picture of a neon yellow Mercedes Wagon on a St. Louis street.

Hughes did not respond Thursday to a phone call, a text and an email.

Bobo told the newspaper last year that she also distributed millions of meals to people in need during an uncertain time.

Nobodys money went to waste, she said last year. We purchased the food, we served the people and those numbers are not doctored. Those are real numbers.

Federal prosecutors, however, said she was doctoring records even before the pandemic. She claimed an associate served as president of her nonprofit, when the person did not. Her use of peoples names she falsely claimed served as New Heights board members led to the identity theft charges.

During the pandemic, prosecutors say Bobo submitted false reimbursement claims for meals New Heights never actually served. She claimed the nonprofit served six million meals to children when in fact it had purchased only enough food to serve less than half that number. Prosecutors say the fraudulent claims netted Bobo $11 million in USDA food reimbursement she was not entitled to.

And as federal authorities were investigating, Bobo in July forged an invoice for the purchase of hundreds of gallons of milk that she never bought. That led prosecutors to charge her with obstruction of an official proceeding in addition to the wire fraud and identity theft.

This indictment shows that we will aggressively pursue those who defraud a program intended to feed needy children, and those who exploited loopholes created by a global pandemic, U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming said in a statement. We will seize the houses and luxury vehicles that they buy with those funds and we will seek punishment that is appropriate for the scale of the crime, which by law includes repayment of the funds.

The wire fraud and obstruction charges carry a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. The identity theft charges are punishable by up to an additional two years in prison.

The FBI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is handling the case for the Eastern District of Missouri.

Loosened rules

During the pandemic, the rules governing the two U.S. Department of Agriculture programs were loosened, allowing organizations to distribute a weeks worth of meals at a time in drive-thru style events, with each meal worth as much as $4.56 in federal reimbursement. The setup rewarded scale, becoming lucrative enough for larger nonprofits that could finance bulk orders of food that they were shipping meals far outside their own cities. New Heights and other local groups were trucking food from St. Louis for distribution at sites as far away as Kansas City and Poplar Bluff.

Regulators at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, who administered the program, became so concerned with the ballooning claims numbers that they ended the waivers allowing grab-and-go meals, requiring beneficiaries to eat on site as the program had required pre-pandemic. The move prompted a national NBC article that singled out Missouri as the only state not to renew the waivers, drawing criticism from state Democrats who sharply criticized Gov. Mike Parsons administration.

But state health department officials defended their decision, citing the enormous claims figures and red flags such as reimbursement paperwork with illegible attendance numbers and meal counts or repeated recipient names.

The food program has sparked other major federal fraud charges. Last year, federal prosecutors in Minneapolis charged nearly 50 people there in connection with a massive, $250 million fraud involving the food programs that authorities said at the time was the largest fraud to date tied to emergency pandemic spending.

Bobos New Heights started out small when she founded it in 2011. Bobo said she struggled at first, putting her modest salary back into the organization and maxing out credit cards to buy food to serve needy kids. By 2019, she had grown relatively large among the hundreds of Missouri nonprofits that participated in the child nutrition programs, claiming $260,000 in food reimbursement and paying herself $60,000 as executive director.

But when COVID-19 hit in 2020, and the rules were changed so children no longer had to eat in congregate settings to limit the spread of the virus, the reimbursement sums grew astronomically. By May 2020, Bobos organization had claimed $350,000 in a single month. That year, she grew to one of the largest program participants, claiming $5 million in USDA meal reimbursement. In 2021, New Heights claimed the largest sum in Missouris summer food distribution program  $11 million.

In all, she billed about $20 million to the programs while they operated under loosened pandemic rules, according to state records.

The state flagged millions of dollars in claims the organization submitted, blocking millions more that would have been paid out to New Heights. Missouri regulators last year placed Bobo, New Heights and the nonprofits president, Anita Carter-Foley, on a USDA blacklist that bars participation in the program for up to seven years. Carter-Foley said, and the indictment confirmed, she was never actually involved with the nonprofit.

Other organizations

{div class=lee-article-text}Bobo and New Heights were not the only Missouri organizations with issues, according to state regulators.

Federal authorities also subpoenaed records related to Influence Church, whose pastor, Darnell West, used a helicopter to fly between his churches. His wife and co-pastor, Rochelle West, is an accountant who managed financial records for the churchs participation in the program.

The largest participant in the program was Springfield-based Life360 Community Services, tied to a church of the same name that billed over $43 million to the programs. State regulators flagged high salaries paid to church leader Ted Cederbloom and his family members on the payroll.

Fleming, the U.S. Attorney, said anyone information about COVID-19 related fraud should contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-720-5721.

Updated at 5:30 p.m.

{/div}
VELDA CITY  A Metro East jail guard is facing felony charges after a 5-year-old boy found a loaded gun in a toy box and shot himself in the hand in the guard's home.

Walter Gary, 37, of Velda City, was charged Wednesday with two counts of first-degree child endangerment. Charges say he admitted to police that he stored a loaded gun in a box filled with other toys in the dining room of his Velda City home in the 2800 block of Maurer Avenue.

A 5-year-old child found the gun and shot himself in the hand, charging documents allege. There were at least four other children younger than 17 in the home at the time, court documents say.

Gary is a corrections officer with the St. Clair County Sheriff's Department. Gary was placed on unpaid leave Thursday, a department spokesman said. He's been employed with the department for about a year.

The case was investigated by Velda City police. Gary's bond was set Wednesday at $75,000, cash only, no 10%.
TROY, Ill.  Police on Thursday identified the woman who was killed Wednesday morning in a crash on US Route 40.

The two-car crash happened around 7:15 a.m. near Glen Rae Drive, police said.

Catherine Leathers, 81, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another person was taken to a hospital with serious injuries.

Police shut down US-40 between Bethany Road and Illinois Route 62 while officers investigated, but all lanes were reopened by 10 a.m.
KIRKWOOD  Police on Wednesday arrested a sex offender who was found in Kirkwood with a 16-year-old girl who had run away from her home in North Carolina.

Christopher Porter, 30, is charged with second-degree statutory rape, second-degree statutory sodomy, second-degree possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of a minor.

Police said officers around 5:30 p.m. approached a suspicious vehicle in the Lowe's parking lot in the 1200 block of South Kirkwood Road.

They said while they were speaking with Porter, they spotted the teen inside his car.

She told police she was a 16-year-old runaway from North Carolina. They later determined she had been missing since Oct. 13, court documents said.

Officers arrested Porter, who is a registered sex offender in California.

Investigators say Porter met the girl online about two months ago and drove from Oklahoma to North Carolina to meet the girl.

Porter was in jail Thursday in St. Louis County on a $500,000 cash-only bond.
ST. LOUIS  A man was sentenced Thursday to 17 years in prison for a 2021 fatal shooting at a gas station in the city's Old North neighborhood.

Ernest J. Dupree pleaded guilty last month to second-degree murder, armed criminal action and tampering with a motor vehicle in the Nov. 5, 2021, fatal shooting of Clifton Southern, 44, at a Shell station in the 2800 block of North Florissant Avenue.

Charges said Southern was unarmed and pleaded with Dupree not to shoot him as Dupree's pistol jammed. Dupree then "re-racked the slide of his pistol" and fired several shots at Southern, killing him, police said. The entire interaction was captured on surveillance video.

On Thursday, Southern's aunt told Judge Timothy Boyer that her nephew was trying to change his life and had become a religious man in the months before his death.

She said he was always ready to help her move or fix her car, and he was deeply missed by several siblings, nephews, cousins and aunts.

Prosecutors and defense attorneys had agreed on a 17-year sentence for Dupree in exchange for his guilty plea. Judge Boyer honored that agreement.
ST. CHARLES COUNTY  A member of the Francis Howell School Board will introduce a policy Thursday that bans transgender students from using bathrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity.

Under the policy, students could only use bathrooms and locker rooms that match the sex on their birth certificates. Each school must have separate facilities for boys and girls and provide at least one single-user bathroom for any student to use.

Jane Puszkar of the boards conservative majority proposed the policy, which is also supported by the political action committee Francis Howell Families. The board is expected to vote on the policy in November.

It restores sanity and safety  and removes uncertainty  for students, staff, and parents on the use of locker rooms and restrooms, reads the Francis Howell Families website. ALL students can be their authentic selves without being intimidated, embarrassed, or confused about the simple act of using a bathroom or locker room. What a breath of fresh air to have a Board that puts an end to the bathroom confusion and anxiety that we all have experienced these last few years!

But supporters of another political action committee, Francis Howell Forward, say the policy only adds confusion by not including details about compliance or enforcement.

It has no purpose but to toss it out there and see how much fear we can create in the community and slap another target on trans kids, said Christine Hyman, parent of a transgender son and a daughter who attends Francis Howell North High. They could be working on more pertinent issues that matter to the kids. This policy does not matter; it serves no purpose other than to harm a specific subset of people.

Most local school districts do not have a bathroom policy related to gender but do provide single-user bathrooms for students. The Hazelwood School District adopted a policy in 2016 that allows transgender students to use bathrooms and locker rooms that conform with the students gender identity. The charter school Lafayette Prep Academy in St. Louis also has a policy that lets transgender students use the bathroom of their choice.

State Sen. Nick Schroer, R-Defiance, in September posted a letter co-signed by other St. Charles County lawmakers urging school districts to approve bathroom policies aligned with students sex at birth. The move came after a new state law went into effect Aug. 28 banning minors from starting gender-affirming medical care.

The Wentzville School Board reviewed a policy earlier this month that would require students to use a single-user bathroom or a multi-user bathroom that matches their sex, defined as an individuals reproductive biology at birth and the individuals genome. Prior to the meeting, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey sued the Wentzville board over claims the district illegally met in closed session to discuss bathroom and locker room policies for transgender students.

There are also lawsuits pending nationwide against school districts that have enacted restrictive bathroom rules.

In July, the ACLU of Missouri filed a discrimination lawsuit against the Platte County School District for suspending a transgender girl for using the girls bathroom at Platte County High School. The schools gender-neutral bathroom was far from the girls classes, and she was threatened with rape by another student in the boys bathroom, the suit claims.

Forcing transgender students to use the bathroom or locker room that matches their sex designated at birth is not only discrimination but dangerous and causes serious harm to Missouris youth, said Gillian Wilcox, deputy director of litigation at the ACLU of Missouri, in a statement.

Maplewood Richmond Heights School District has recently installed gender-neutral restrooms at the recommendation of a facilities committee. The bathrooms, featuring floor-to-ceiling doors on individual toilet stalls and an open row of sinks, are both time-saving and inclusive, said Superintendent Bonita Jamison.

There has been minimal pushback from the community, staff, parents or students, Jamison said.

Students are fine, they go in and out, its not an issue, she said. Its a step toward gender equity for us, and it acknowledges that everyone deserves equal access to facilities. It aligns to our core values where kids have a sense of belonging.
Investor Warren Buffett joined the recent oil-buying spree in the market this week by resuming Berkshire Hathaways purchases of Occidental Petroleum stock for the first time in four months. Buffetts company said in a Securities and Exchange Commission filing late Wednesday that it invested more than $246 million to add to its already massive Occidental stake over the first three days of this week.

Berkshire bought nearly 4 million more shares of the Houston-based oil producer to give it more than 228 million shares and control of nearly 26% of Occidental. Buffett has been consistently buying Occidental stock whenever the shares fell below $60 as he built Berkshires stake since early last year, but this week he was willing to pay more than $63 for some of these new shares.

These latest Berkshire purchases began on the same day Chevron announced it was buying Hess Corp. for $53 billion in the second megadeal in the oil sector this month. Less than two weeks earlier, Exxon Mobil said that it would acquire Pioneer Natural Resources for about $60 billion.

Clearly Buffett, Chevron and Exxon are all betting that oil will remain a significant source of the nations fuel sources well into the future even as the United States works to transition more to renewable energy sources.

And Buffett knows the oil sector well. Not only is Berkshire the biggest shareholder in Occidental, it also owns more than 123.1 million Chevron shares in its $350 billion portfolio.

Many investors like to follow Buffetts moves in the market because of his remarkably successful track record over the years. He doesnt comment on stock purchases like this beyond what hes required to disclose as a major shareholder, but Buffett typically handles all of Berkshires biggest investments worth $1 billion or more. Berkshires Occidental stake is now worth more than $14.4 billion.

Last year, Buffett did get permission from federal regulators to buy up to 50% of Occidental, and Berkshire holds warrants to buy another 83.9 million shares for $59.62 apiece, so more purchases seem likely. But Buffett has said he has no plans to buy the entire company.

In addition to the common Occidental shares Berkshire owns, it also holds 84,897 preferred shares of Occidental that it picked up in 2019 when it helped finance Occidentals acquisition of Anadarko. Berkshire used to hold more of those preferred shares, but Occidental has started redeeming them this year at $110,000 apiece to eliminate the hefty dividend the oil producer has to pay on them.

Berkshires portfolio includes major stakes in Apple, Bank of America and Coca-Cola stock. But the Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate also owns dozens of companies outright including Geico insurance, BNSF railroad, several large utilities and an assortment of manufacturing and retail firms.

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JEFFERSON CITY  The speaker of the Missouri House said Thursday he is absolutely not going to resign over filing false expense reports for the past five years.

In an interview on This Week in Missouri Politics, a state politics podcast, Rep. Dean Plocher, R-Des Peres, dismissed calls by fellow Republicans that he step down.

I look forward to leading the House to produce good conservative legislation such as property tax cuts, personal property tax reform, Plocher said. Theres a lot of good things to do.

Plocher, who is running for lieutenant governor in the 2024 election, used campaign money to pay for conferences, flights and hotels and then asked to be reimbursed for some of those costs by the House. Last week, amid inquiries from the Post-Dispatch and the Missouri Independent, Plocher began the process of paying back nearly $4,000.

On the Thursday podcast, he defended his actions but also called the situation embarrassing.

We found the errors. We made the reimbursements. I think thats the honest correct thing to do, Plocher said. I caught it and Im grateful that I caught it. I own it. The buck has to stop with me.

The speaker, who is elected by members of the House to preside over the chamber, has faced calls by his GOP counterparts to resign.

Freshmen Rep. Mazzie Boyd, R-Hamilton, said shes lost confidence that Plocher can lead effectively.

I believe he needs to devote his time to clearing his name and serving his district, and he cannot do all that while remaining Speaker of the House. That is why I am calling on him to resign as Speaker, said Boyd, who worked in President Donald Trumps administration and for the former presidents campaign operation.

I believe we need a new leader with integrity, to help House Republicans move this state forward, Boyd said in a statement.

Other Republican House members calling for Plochers ouster include Reps. Doug Richey of Excelsior Springs and Chris Sander of Lone Jack.

Others whove joined the anti-Plocher chorus include Sen. Bill Eigel, R-Weldon Spring, who is running for governor. Former Sen. Bob Onder, R-Lake Saint Louis, signaled Wednesday he is planning to run for lieutenant governor against Plocher.

Some in the House are backing Plocher.

I encourage fellow Republicans, many of whom are publicly speaking against Dean, to let the process play out as it will, and stop trying to take advantage of anothers plight for political gain, Rep. Brian Seitz, R-Branson, said in a statement posted on social media.

Plocher faces another potentially significant hurdle Friday when members of the House Ethics Committee meet behind closed doors to discuss a personnel inquiry related to Plochers firing of his chief of staff, Kenny Ross.

Ross, who served three previous speakers, vacated his office after Plocher was questioned over his attempt to muscle an $800,000 software purchase through the House without going through the normal bidding process.

House administrators opposed the purchase and a committee of lawmakers voted against buying the software.

Plocher said Ross firing was not in response to the dust-up over the purchase, but part of a long-range reorganization of his operation.

This has been in ongoing discussion within my office on how I was going to handle it, he said.

Plocher also declined to comment on the Ethics Committee meeting.

The Ethics Committee was appointed. They have a duty they have a job. I trust that they take it seriously and I trust that theyre going to come to the conclusions that they come with in the proper way, Plocher said. I do not want to get involved in this.

The committee investigates complaints of ethical misconduct by members of the House.

The harshest punishment the panel can recommend is the expulsion of a member. They also can issue lesser sanctions.
JEFFERSON CITY  In a direct challenge to the top Democrat in the Missouri House, a Springfield businessman on Thursday announced his campaign for Missouri governor.

Michael Hamra, the CEO of Springfield-based Hamra Enterprises, said he would run against House Minority Leader Crystal Quade, also from Springfield, for the Democratic Partys gubernatorial nomination in August.

Im running for governor because our political leaders in Jefferson City seem out of ideas, with partisan food fights, ideological warfare and a rush to score points, instead of serving the people who elected them. Its time we change things, Hamra said in a campaign launch video.

Hamras campaign said he knows how to create jobs and work with people he doesnt always agree with.

As governor, Hamras campaign said he would work on workforce development, growing small businesses, lowering household costs and restoring the right for women to make their own reproductive health care decisions, according to his campaign.

Hamra said earlier this month he was considering a bid for governor and would likely announce his plans at the end of October.

The company he runs, Hamra Enterprises, is a franchisee of Panera Bread, Wendys and Noodles and Co. restaurants.

In a swing at Hamra earlier this month, Quade charged Hamra had a record of paying low wages and denying sick leave.

Im proud of my record of standing up for workers rights, she said.

Hamra said in response, Treating our team well has been a key part of our companys growth.

Hamras father is Sam Hamra, founder of Hamra Enterprises and longtime political player from Springfield.
SACRAMENTO, Calif.  This Easter, Americans will devour more than 1 billion Peeps  those radiant marshmallow chicks whose appearance on store shelves each year is as much a herald of spring as azaleas at the Masters.

What makes the treats so vibrant is erythrosine, a chemical that shows up on ingredient labels as Red No. 3. It's one of several chemicals, along with titanium dioxide, used to color some of the most popular candy in the country  including Skittles and Hot Tamales.

Both chemicals have been linked to cancer. More than 30 years ago, U.S. regulators banned Red No. 3 from makeup. The U.S. still has not banned the chemical from food, to the dismay of some consumer safety groups.

Now, a state lawmaker wants to ban erythrosine and titanium dioxide in California, plus three other chemicals used in everyday favorites like tortillas and some store brand sodas.

The bill has prompted headlines around the world declaring California wants to ban Skittles and other candy. Assembly member Jesse Gabriel, a Democrat who authored the bill, said he wants to ban the chemicals, not the candy. He said plenty of alternative ingredients are available, noting the chemicals are already banned in Europe and that companies still find a way to sell candy there.

"They still produce Skittles in other parts of the world. What they do is they take out these toxic ingredients, and they replace them with something else," Gabriel said. "What we really want is for these companies to make the same minor modifications to their recipes that they made in Europe and elsewhere."

The National Confectioners Association, the trade group that represents candy companies, says it's not that easy. Tastes vary across cultures, it said, meaning just because a candy is accepted by Europeans doesn't mean it will be received well in the United States. Plus, changing ingredients would be a hardship for regional candy makers who don't sell their products overseas, according to the trade group.

"There's a lot more here at play than a simple soundbite solution," said Christopher Gindlesperger, spokesperson for the association. "We need a comprehensive look at this to make sure there isn't unintended consequences for chocolate and candy companies."

In addition to erythrosine and titanium dioxide, the bill would ban potassium bromate and propylparaben, two chemicals used in baked goods, and brominated vegetable oil, which is used in some store brand sodas.

The U.S. has allowed dyes like erythrosine in food since 1907. Decades later, researchers found rats exposed to lots of erythrosine over a long time developed thyroid cancer. In 1990, based in part off of that research, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned erythrosine from cosmetics.

Consumer safety groups have tried for years to get the agency to ban the chemical in food to no avail. Researchers have since linked the chemical to other health problems besides cancer, including hyperactivity and other neurobiological behaviors in some children, according to a 2021 report from the California Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.

The International Association of Color Manufacturers argued in a 2021 statement that California study was "based on insufficient scientific evidence."

Titanium dioxide is a white powder that, because it scatters light, can make colors appear brighter. It's been used for 100 years in products like paints, paper, rubber, toothpaste, soap and food coloring. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has listed titanium dioxide as a possible carcinogen in humans. The Titanium Dioxide Manufacturers Association maintains there is no evidence of it causing cancer in humans.

The candy industry insists the chemicals California is considering banning "have been thoroughly reviewed by the federal and state systems and many international scientific bodies and continue to be deemed safe," according to a letter signed by various industry trade groups.

"These scientifically based regulatory processes should be allowed to continue without second guessing their outcomes," the letter stated.

Scott Faber, senior vice president for governmental affairs for the nonprofit Environmental Working Group, said the only reason the chemical is still deemed safe by federal regulators is because of a loophole that has been exploited by chemical companies. He says regulators have not reviewed their prior decisions in light of new science.

"The confectioners and the food industry know the review process at the FDA is broken. They have been hiding behind it for decades. We shouldn't let them hide behind it anymore," Faber said. "If FDA won't fix this review system and keep us safe from dangerous chemicals in our food, it's up to states like California to keep us safe."

Just Born Inc., the Pennsylvania-based company that makes Peeps, said in a statement the company complies with FDA regulations and gets their "ingredients and packaging exclusively from reputable suppliers who adhere to high quality and safety standards."

The company noted its development team is looking for other options.

Photos: Easter week traditions around the world
ACAPULCO, Mexico (AP)  Survivors of a Category 5 storm that killed at least 27 people as it devastated Mexicos resort city of Acapulco spent Thursday searching for acquaintances and necessities and hoping that aid would come quickly in the wake of Hurricane Otis.

The Pacific storm had strengthened with shocking swiftness before slamming into the coast early Wednesday, and the Mexican government deployed around 10,000 troops to deal with the aftermath. But equipment to move tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets was slow in arriving.

Resentment grew Thursday in impoverished neighborhoods as residents worried that government attention would go to repairing infrastructure for the city's economic engine of tourism rather than helping the neediest.

Flora Contreras Santos, a housewife from a poor neighborhood on the outskirts of the city, sought help in looking for a 3-year-old girl who was swept away from her mother in a mudslide. She went from soldier to soldier trying to interest any one of them in the tragedy that occurred on her street at the height of the storm.

The mountain came down on them. The mud took her from the mothers arms, Contreras said. We need help, the mother is in bad shape and we cant find the girl.

Even as army bulldozers began clearing knee-deep mud from Acapulcos main boulevards, Contreras' pleas did not appear to move any of the soldiers to action.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador went by road Wednesday after the hurricane hit the iconic city on Mexico 's Pacific coast. At least four people remained missing. It was unclear if the 3-year-old girl was counted among them.

The president said Otis had toppled every power-line pole in the zone where it hit on Wednesday, leaving much of the city of 1 million without electricity. Otis turned from mild to monster in record time, and scientists were struggling to figure out how  and why they didnt see it coming.

The people sheltered, protected themselves and thats why fortunately there werent more tragedies, loss of human life, Lopez Obrador said.

Acapulco's municipal water system was down and around half a million homes lost power. Lopez Obrador said that restoring power was a top priority, but by Thursday evening there were still 300,000 homes and businesses with no electricity.

Brown floodwaters extended for miles in some areas. Many residents were taking basic items from stores to survive. Others left with pricier goods, in widespread rampages through the area's stores.

As cell phone signals began to return to some parts of the city, residents organized themselves with the help of friends and relatives living in other parts of Mexico and the United States. They joined together by neighborhood using online messaging platforms like WhatsApp. On Thursday there were some 1,000 people in 40 chats, which only continued to grow in number throughout the day.

They shared photos of flooded neighborhoods and tips for finding cell phone signals, while asking for information about loved ones that they had not heard from. Others share photos of papers full of names of survivors taking refuge in shelters, some with notes reading Lupita, we are okay. I will call you when we have signal.

When someone joins from a neighborhood they're asked by people outside the city to look for other residents there.

Juan Pablo Lopez, 26, had been talking to his wife when their call was cut off early Wednesday as Otis made landfall. She had returned to Acapulco to be with her family and give birth to their son a month ago. Lopez was at home in Cancun.

Im very worried for my newborn son, he said.

With no information coming in Wednesday, he created an online chat with friends and family from Guerrero state, where Acapulco is the largest city. He also invited friends who had emigrated to the U.S. and asked them to add their local contacts.

We started to cross-reference information, to share what we found, almost like a WhatApp newspaper, Lopez said.

By Thursday afternoon, however, he still had not heard word about his wife and son.

The surreal was commonplace in the storm-wrecked city, as residents emptied the area's stores of goods.

Ricardo Diaz, a self-employed laborer, stood Thursday with two fistfuls of live chickens he clutched by their legs. A chicken company had given him the chickens, Diaz said. A woman nearby pushed an office chair loaded with artificial Christmas wreaths and toilet paper through the streets. Diaz looked on in dismay as people carried armfuls of goods out of a damaged store.

Theyre going to close these stores and that hurts Acapulco, Diaz said.

Edith Villanueva, holding her daughter, worried about what would happen to Acapulco in the long term. She worked at a cell phone store that had already been cleaned out.

They already stole all of the phones, she said. Its one thing to steal food, but people are abusing it.

Acapulco's police chief Enrique Vazquez Ramirez said Thursday they could do little to stop people from emptying local stores or speed up traffic caused by mud and fallen trees, which has left much of the city paralyzed.

This is a completely extraordinary situation, he said.

Some residents said it could take a year for Acapulco to recover; with no power, gasoline, little cell coverage and hotels wrecked by the hurricane, the task seemed impossible.

Marketing expert Antonio Esparza was one of the few optimistic ones, even as he sat trapped in the snarled traffic of the aftermath.

This is going to improve Acapulco, because it will force the government to pay attention, he said.

Large stores that had their merchandise taken were not restocking their shelves, meaning finding goods could become harder. But street-produce vendors were doing a brisk business in some neighborhoods as residents sought fresh food.

The once-sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds  possibly thousands  of windows. Miguel Angel Fong, president of the Mexican Hotel Association told the AP that 80% of the city's hotels were damaged.

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco on Wednesday but downed electricity lines were in feet of mud and water.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City. The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulcos commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights, though Lopez Obrador said the plan was to establish an air bridge to move in resources.

Acapulco is at the foot of steep mountains. Luxury homes and slums alike cover the hillsides with views of the glistening Pacific Ocean. Once drawing Hollywood stars for its nightlife, sport fishing and cliff diving shows, the port has in recent years fallen victim to competing organized crime groups that have sunk the city into violence, driving away many international tourists.

AP writer Maria Verza in Mexico City contributed. Associated Press Science Writer Seth Borenstein in Washington contributed to this report.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Israeli troops and tanks briefly raided northern Gaza overnight, the military said Thursday, engaging with Hamas fighters and targeting anti-tank weapons to prepare the battlefield before an expected ground invasion.

The third Israeli raid since the war began came after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes that left thousands dead and more than 1 million displaced from their homes, in the small, densely-populated territory.

Arab leaders made a joint plea Thursday for a cease-fire to end civilian suffering and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, where Israel has imposed a suffocating siege ever since Hamas rampage and hostage-taking Oct. 7 in southern Israel. Residents are running out of food, water and medicine, and U.N. workers have barely any fuel left to support relief missions.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decadeslong Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Thursday more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches a ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

More than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians, were killed during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

The damage to Gaza from almost three weeks of bombardment showed in satellite photos of several locations taken before the war and again in recent days.

Entire rows of residential buildings simply disappear in the photos, reduced to smears of dust and rubble. A complex of 13 high-rises by the sea was pounded to dust near Gaza Citys al-Shati refugee camp, leaving only a few tottering bits of facade.

Just down the street, hardly anything remained in what was a neighborhood of low-built homes on winding lanes, according to the photos by Maxar Technologies.

New strikes Thursday leveled more than eight homes belonging to an extended family, killing at least 15 people in the southern city of Khan Younis. In the chaotic wasteland of crumbled concrete and twisted metal, rescuers lifted the body of a boy from beneath a slab.

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Oct. 7 massacre, Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit. The military accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Palestinian militants fired thousands of rockets into Israel since the war began. One struck a residential building in the central city of Petah Tikva without wounding anyone.

Hamas military wing said Thursday that Israeli bombardment has so far killed about 50 of the at least 224 hostages the militants abducted during its Oct. 7 assault. There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials, who denied previous, similar claims.

The conflict has threatened to ignite a wider war across the region.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed ally of Hamas in Lebanon, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel along the border. The United States sent two aircraft carrier strike groups to the region, along with additional fighter jets and other weaponry and personnel.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas capacity to govern Gaza or threaten Israel again but also claims it doesnt want to reoccupy the territory, from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005. That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Gaza, with political and charity organizations as well as a formidable armed wing.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

The overnight raid into Gaza was the largest of several known brief incursions. The military said soldiers and tanks killed fighters and destroyed tunnels and anti-tank missile launching positions.

The military said no Israelis were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Nine Arab countries  including key U.S. allies and nations that signed peace or normalization deals with Israel  issued a joint statement Thursday calling for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the targeting and death of civilians.

The right to self defense by the United Nations Charter does not justify blatant violations of humanitarian and international law, said the statement, signed by Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Morocco.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli authorities detained 86 Palestinians, including five women, in raids overnight, bringing the total detained there to more than 1,400, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, which represents former and current prisoners. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed in violence in the West Bank.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip  Israeli troops and tanks launched an hourslong ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday, the military said, striking several militant targets in order to prepare the battlefield ahead of a widely expected ground invasion after more than two weeks of devastating air raids.

The raid came after the U.N. warned it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory, which has also been under a complete siege since Hamas' bloody rampage across southern Israel ignited the war earlier this month.

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decadeslong Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death toll, and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to U.N. figures.

On Wednesday, the wife, son, daughter and grandson of Wael Dahdouh, a veteran Al-Jazeera correspondent in Gaza, were killed in an Israeli strike. The Qatar-based network showed footage of his grief upon entering a hospital and seeing his dead son. Dahdouh and other mourners attended the funerals on Thursday wearing the blue flak jackets used by reporters in the Palestinian territories.

The Israeli military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in densely-populated Gaza. Palestinian militants have fired rocket barrages into Israel since the war began.

During the overnight raid, soldiers killed fighters and destroyed militant infrastructure and anti-tank missile launching positions, the military said. It said no Israeli were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the limited incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Israel also said it had also carried out some 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure.

An airstrike on the southern town of Khan Younis hit a residential building where 75 people were staying, according to family members, including 25 who had fled other parts of Gaza. Ambulances streamed into the nearby Nasser Hospital, but there was no official word on casualties.

The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds at least 224 hostages in Gaza.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen.

Gazas population has also been running out of food, water and medicine. About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowded into U.N. shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south, saying those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel let more than 60 trucks with aid enter from Egypt, which aid workers say is insufficient and only a tiny fraction of what was being brought in before the war. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it.

An official with the International Committee of the Red Cross said it hopes to bring in eight trucks filled with vital medical supplies.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean, said William Schomburg, head of the sub-delegation in Gaza. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

UNRWA has been sharing its own fuel supplies so that trucks can distribute aid, bakeries can feed people in shelters, water can be desalinated, and hospitals can keep incubators, life support machines and other vital equipment working.

If it continues doing all of that, fuel will run out by Thursday, so the agency is deciding how to ration its supply, UNRWA spokeswoman Tamara Alrifai told The Associated Press.

Do we give for the incubators or the bakeries? she said. It is an excruciating decision.

More than half of Gazas primary health care facilities and roughly a third of its hospitals have stopped functioning, the World Health Organization said.

At Gaza Citys al-Shifa Hospital, the lack of medicine and clean water have led to alarming infection rates, the group Doctors Without Borders said. Amputations are often required to prevent infection from spreading in the wounded, it said.

One surgeon with the group described amputating half the foot of a 9-year-old boy with only slight sedation on a hallway floor as his mother and sister watched.

The conflict has also threatened to spread across the region. The Israeli military said Wednesday it struck military sites in Syria in response to rocket launches from the country. Syrian state media said eight soldiers were killed and seven wounded.

Strikes in Syria also hit the airports of Aleppo and Damascus, in an apparent attempt to prevent arms shipments from Iran to militant groups, including Lebanons Hezbollah. Israel has been exchanging near daily fire with Iranian-backed Hezbollah across the Lebanese border.

Israeli airstrikes and drone attacks early Thursday caused fires in open land in the southern Lebanon border town of Aita al Shaab, where clashes have intensified, Lebanon's state-run news agency said. It reported strikes late Wednesday on towns in the Tyre district, saying a mattress factory was hit.

Hamas' surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel stunned the country with its brutality, its unprecedented toll and the failure of intelligence agencies to know it was coming. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a speech Wednesday night that he will be held accountable, but only after Hamas was defeated.

We will get to the bottom of what happened," he said. "This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

Magdy reported from Cairo and Teibel from Jerusalem. Associated Press writers Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, and Kareem Chehayeb in Beirut contributed to this report.
CHICAGO (AP)  A man accused of pepper spraying pro-Palestinian protesters who gathered near an Israel solidarity rally over the weekend has been charged with hate crimes and aggravated battery, prosecutors said Wednesday.

Zevulen Ebert, 33, of Skokie, Illinois, is charged with two felony counts of aggravated battery and two felony hate crime charges, according to Cook County States Attorney Kim Foxxs office. Pepper spray can irritate the eyes and cause a burning sensation and difficulty breathing.

The confrontation broke out as about 1,000 people were gathered Sunday evening at a banquet hall in a northern Chicago suburb to show solidarity with Israel, and several hundred pro-Palestinian demonstrators rallied outside, according to police and event organizers.

The pro-Palestinian protest was wrapping up when the sound of a gunshot cracked through the air, and then a few minutes later, a man pepper sprayed attendees, said organizer Hatem Abudayyeh of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network. People were running and screaming and very, very afraid, Abudayyeh said. These charges are good news.

Ebert appeared in court Wednesday and was freed with conditions by Judge Anthony Calabrese. Prosecutors did not ask for him to be detained ahead of a trial.

Under a recent change in Illinois law, state courts can no longer require cash bail as a condition of pretrial release. Judges must assess the risk of releasing defendants charged with certain serious crimes. Ebert was deemed to be low-risk.

A Chicago police officer and two other people sustained minor injuries from being pepper sprayed by an attendee, according to police in Skokie, where the protest took place.

Since the outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas earlier this month, a fatal stabbing of a Palestinian-American child in Illinois, a gun pointed at protesters in Pennsylvania, vandalism at synagogues and harassment of staff at a Palestinian restaurant all are raising fears that the war is sparking violence in the United States and spiking crimes against Jewish and Muslim communities.

Ebert's lawyer, Hal Garfinkel, told The Associated Press by phone Wednesday that he and his client are "extraordinarily happy" that prosecutors "made the prudent choice" not to pursue pretrial detention, a decision he says shows that theyll have a very difficult time meeting their burden of beyond a reasonable doubt when we go to court.

Prosecutors alleged that Ebert was not attacked or threatened when  based on his perception of their ancestry  he targeted the protesters with pepper spray, accused Palestinians of killing babies, and made obscene middle finger gestures to Palestinian supporters.

Prosecutors in Cook County earlier this week declined to file charges against another man who fired a gun during the protest. Officials determined that the man acted in self-defense upon being surrounded by a crowd and attacked by some of those individuals, said a statement released by Foxx's office on Monday.

Abudayyeh called it a travesty of justice that the man who shot the gun was not charged, and said he is concerned about the safety of Palestinian communities across the country.

Were hearing all kinds of horror stories from people in schools, and in workplaces, and in grocery stores, and in the neighborhoods, said Abudayyeh, who is Palestinian American. I am super concerned for my kid.

The banquet hall event was organized by the Simon Wiesenthal Center, a Los Angeles-based Jewish human rights group.

Alison Pure-Slovin, director of the groups Midwest regional office, said on Wednesday that the organization would have no comment on the hate crime charges until law enforcement finishes their investigation.

Savage 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.
Americans today are so deeply divided that pretty much the only thing they can agree upon is an overriding distrust of government. Public approval of political institutions at all levels is at historic lows. In states like Missouri, dysfunctional leadership is evident in everything from its infrastructure to its schools to its health care system.

What a time for the Missouri House speaker to file a false expense report about a trip to Hawaii on the taxpayers dime.

For the second time in recent weeks, House Speaker Dean Plocher has been exposed attempting to use state money in highly questionable ways.

Last week on this page, we asked why Plocher  who is running next year for lieutenant governor  was leading a mysterious, relentless campaign to steer a state contract worth almost $800,000 to a private company for constituent services that are already provided in-house by the state.

Now his fellow politicians of both parties are demanding explanations for the Des Peres Republicans use of state money to reimburse himself for travel expenses to Hawaii and elsewhere that were already covered by his campaign committee.

Enough is enough. Whether Plocher remains in his House seat is between him and his St. Louis County constituents. But for the good of the publics battered trust in its state government, Plocher should resign his House speakership immediately.

Details remain murky regarding why Plocher and others in his caucus attempted (unsuccessfully) to steer a contract for constituent services to a private company, to the point of endorsing form letters that originated with a lobbying firm working for the company. As we said last week, the whole story presents more questions than answers  but the questions alone demand explanation.

The details about Plochers Hawaiian adventure and other tax-funded jaunts, in contrast, arent murky at all. Put simply, Plocher used campaign funds to pay for travel related to conferences and other official events, then got the state to reimburse him by claiming he had paid for it out of his own pocket.

In other words, Plocher effectively double-dipped, first from his campaign donors, then from the taxpayers. It arguably represents tax-funded augmentation of his campaign committee, which would be illegal on its face.

As reported by the Missouri Independent, Plocher in August pressed legislative staff to reimburse him for almost $1,200 for a plane ticket to Hawaii, where he had earlier attended a conference. Although Plocher was making the request outside the normal 90-day window from the ticket purchase set by House rules, he convinced staff to cover the cost anyway.

But it turns out there was a bigger problem than the 90-day window: Plocher hadnt personally purchased the ticket as he had claimed; his campaign had purchased it. And now he was getting personally reimbursed for it by the state.

It wasnt an isolated incident. The Independents reporting laid out at least nine other instances since 2018 in which Plocher used campaign funds for trips, then got the state to reimburse him by signing sworn statements that he had used personal funds for the expenses.

Plocher claims the whole issue stems from administrative errors and says he is in process of repaying the improperly reimbursed money to the state. Even if that explanation is taken at face value, it doesnt speak well of a politician who is asking the voters to install in him a statewide post thats next in line to the governors office.

The House Ethics Committee meets privately Friday for what many have speculated is a review of Plochers situation.

Rather than drag state government through this unnecessary distraction, Plocher should resign his speakership and consider ending his campaign for lieutenant governor. While nothing revealed so far is solid evidence of intentional criminality, the standard for leading one of Missouris two legislative chambers should be higher  and on that point, the verdict is already in.
Program will focus on Black individuals and families who have historically had inequitable access to homeownership

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / KeyBank

KeyBank is investing $400,000 in NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania to help increase financial stability and homeownership throughout the region with a focus on Black individuals and families who have historically had inequitable access to homeownership. This grant is part of KeyBank's commitment to invest $40 billion in the communities it serves.

"KeyBank's purpose is to help the communities we serve thrive. Accessibility to homeownership is a crucial element of thriving communities," said Victor Laurenza, KeyBank Western Pennsylvania Market President. "We are excited to partner with and support NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania in their mission of promoting stable, vibrant communities by providing equitable and comprehensive homeownership services."

"This grant provides sustainable support for first-time buyers at all stages of purchase readiness, including those with major barriers to homeownership. KeyBank's investment shows a commitment to closing the staggering racial wealth gap in Western Pennsylvania," said Colin Kelley, CEO of NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania. "We look forward to partnering with KeyBank over the next four years to promote equitable access to homeownership in our region."

Through community-based partnerships, NeighborWorks will connect prospective buyers to housing and financial counseling, homebuyer education, and down payment and closing cost assistance. The focus will include those living outside of the Pittsburgh metro, in rural and suburban communities throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Target outcomes include:

NeighborWorks will enter into or renew existing partnership memorandums of understanding with a minimum of 20 nonprofit, development, and business partners



400 prospective homebuyers will be referred to NeighborWorks by community partners



550 counseling appointments will be held with prospective buyers



250 prospective buyers will complete HUD-certified homebuyer education



160 buyers will receive down payment and closing cost assistance, either through NeighborWorks or a program offered by a partner. 50% of down payment assistance will go to Black buyers.

Including this investment, KeyBank has provided more than $577,000 in support to NeighborWorks since 2017.

Since 2017, KeyBank has made more than $496 million in investments in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania, supporting affordable housing and community development projects; small business and home lending to low-to-moderate income individuals and communities, and transformative philanthropy.

ABOUT KEYBANK

KeyBank's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyCorp is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $188 billion at September 30, 2023. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,300 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC.

ABOUT NEIGHBORWORKS OF WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA

For more than 50 years, NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania has promoted stable, vibrant communities by providing our neighbors with comprehensive homeownership services. Legendary community organizer Dorothy Richardson founded our organization, then known as Neighborhood Housing Services, to address the lack of safe and affordable housing on Pittsburgh's Northside. The success of Richardson and her neighbors, using a resident-led model, inspired NeighborWorks America, a national network of community-based organizations. Today, NeighborWorks Western Pennsylvania is a leader in sustainable homeownership, preparing first-time homebuyers and supporting homeowners in Western Pennsylvania through one-on-one





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from KeyBank on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: KeyBank

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/keybank

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: KeyBank

View source version on accesswire.com:
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Amarc Resources Ltd. ("Amarc" or the "Company") (TSXV:AHR)(OTCQB: AXREF) is pleased to announce that planning has commenced with Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), in preparation for an intended extensive 2024 drilling program at its 100% owned JOY Copper-Gold District (or "JOY" or the "District") in north-central British Columbia ("BC"). The program - planned to commence at site in early June - is to be fully funded by Freeport, which is earning-in at JOY. Amarc will continue as operator of the project.

Amarc has recently completed the 2023 field program at JOY. This year's program was designed to inform the 2024 drilling plans and included extensive airborne and surface exploration surveys, focused on the detailed refinement of multiple porphyry copper-gold deposit targets clustered along mineralized trends across the JOY District. The final results from these comprehensive surveys are now being received and once appropriately verified and integrated into existing datasets, will be released.

The principal components of the 2023 surveys were:

638 line-km of airborne Magnetotelluric ("MT") geophysics;

30 km 2 of ground-based MT geophysics;

of ground-based MT geophysics; 72.5 line-km of Induced Polarization ground geophysics;

465 geological survey traverse-km;

769 systematic rock chip samples for assay; and

1,788 grid soil samples for assay.

To facilitate future drilling, rehabilitation of exploration trail and bridge access to the PINE Cu-Au Deposit in the centre of the JOY tenure and other deposit targets was completed with Chu Cho Industries LP, a Tsay Keh Dene Nation business.

"The Amarc team continues to capitalize on our collaborative relationship with Freeport, and pool our expertise with the goal of efficiently unlocking value across the extensive 482 km2 JOY District," said Dr. Diane Nicolson Amarc President and CEO. "As the Company looks forward to a significant drill exploration program in 2024, we believe there is a real opportunity to make multiple, significant copper-gold deposit discoveries delivering an active and exciting year for our shareholders, contractors and local communities."

About the JOY District

Amarc's 100%-owned JOY District is located on the northern extension of the prolific Kemess porphyry Cu-Au District that includes the former Kemess South mine, the permitted and development-stage Kemess North underground deposit, and the advanced-stage Kemess East underground deposit - all currently held by Centerra Gold Inc. Through its association with Hunter Dickinson Inc., Amarc's technical team was first to recognize the Kemess District's true porphyry potential, acquiring Kemess North and Kemess South as early-stage prospects and advancing both to significant porphyry Cu-Au deposits. Kemess South was sold in 1996 on beneficial terms to a predecessor of Northgate Minerals, which brought that deposit into production.

The JOY District is readily accessed via resource roads servicing the southern end of the Toodoggone region, including Centerra's Kemess porphyry Cu-Au deposits and the historical Lawyers, Baker and Shasta epithermal precious metal mines now being redeveloped by Benchmark Metals Inc. and TDG Gold Corp, respectively.

In May 2021, Amarc entered into a Mineral Property Earn-In Agreement (the "EIA") with Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (see Amarc release May 12, 2021). Freeport may acquire up to a 70% ownership interest in JOY by making staged investments totaling $110 million.

Freeport's investments into JOY to date include $5.94 million contributed in 2021 and approximately $14 million in 2022 (see Amarc releases November 15 and December 15, 2021). Comprehensive drilling and surface exploration programs in 2021 and 2022 expanded the PINE Cu-Au Deposit, with potential for further expansion, and made a new porphyry Cu-Au discovery called Canyon (see Amarc releases dated March 7, 2022, March 2, 2023 and June 26, 2023).

Further in-depth information on historical and more recent exploration activities completed within the JOY District prior to 2021 can be found in the Company's 'JOY Project 2020 Technical Report', filed under Amarc's profile at www.sedarplus.ca or located on its website at https://amarcresources.com/projects/joy-project/technical-report/.

About Amarc Resources Ltd.

Amarc is a mineral exploration and development company with an experienced and successful management team focused on developing a new generation of long-life, high-value porphyry Cu-Au mines in BC. By combining high-demand projects with dynamic management, Amarc has created a solid platform to create value from its exploration and development-stage assets.

Amarc is advancing its 100%-owned IKE, DUKE and JOY porphyry CuAu Districts located in different prolific porphyry regions of southern, central and northern BC, respectively. Each District represents significant potential for the development of multiple and important-scale, porphyry CuAu deposits. Importantly, each of the three districts is located in proximity to industrial infrastructure - including power, highways and rail.

Freeport-McMoRan Mineral Properties Canada Inc. ("Freeport"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. at JOY and Boliden Mineral Canada Ltd. ("Boliden"), an entity within the Boliden Group of companies at DUKE, can earn up to a 70% interest in each District through staged investments of $110 million and $90 million, respectively. Together this provides Amarc with potentially up to $200 million in non-share dilutive staged funding. Amarc is the operator of both programs.

Amarc is associated with HDI, a diversified, global mining company with a 35-year history of porphyry Cu deposit discovery and development success. Previous and current HDI projects include some of BC's and the world's most important porphyry deposits - such as Pebble, Mount Milligan, Southern Star, Kemess South, Kemess North, Gibraltar, Prosperity, Xietongmen, Newtongmen, Florence, Casino, Sisson, Maggie, IKE, PINE and DUKE. From its head office in Vancouver, Canada, HDI applies its unique strengths and capabilities to acquire, develop, operate and monetize mineral projects.

Amarc works closely with local governments, Indigenous groups and stakeholders in order to advance its mineral projects responsibly, and in a manner that contributes to sustainable community and economic development. We pursue early and meaningful engagement to ensure our mineral exploration and development activities are well coordinated and broadly supported, address local priorities and concerns, and optimize opportunities for collaboration. In particular, we seek to establish mutually beneficial partnerships with Indigenous groups within whose traditional territories our projects are located, through the provision of jobs, training programs, contract opportunities, capacity funding agreements and sponsorship of community events. All Amarc work programs are carefully planned to achieve high levels of environmental and social performance.

Qualified Person

Dr. Roy Greig, P.Geo, a Qualified Person ("QP") as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has read and approved all technical and scientific information related to the JOY District contained in this news release. Dr. Greig is Amarc's Vice President, Exploration.

For further details on Amarc Resources Ltd., please visit the Company's website at www.amarcresources.com or contact Dr. Diane Nicolson, President and CEO, at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1-800-667-2114, or Kin Communications, at (604) 684-6730, Email: [email protected].

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AMARC RESOURCES LTD.

Dr. Diane Nicolson

President and CEO

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor any other regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking and other Cautionary Information

This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All such statements, other than statements of historical facts that address exploration plans and plans for enhanced relationships are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Assumptions used by the Company to develop forward-looking statements include the following: Amarc's projects will obtain all required environmental and other permits and all land use and other licenses, studies and exploration of Amarc's projects will continue to be positive, and no geological or technical problems will occur. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices, potential environmental issues or liabilities associated with exploration, development and mining activities, exploitation and exploration successes, continuity of mineralization, uncertainties related to the ability to obtain necessary permits, licenses and tenure and delays due to third party opposition, changes in and the effect of government policies regarding mining and natural resource exploration and exploitation, exploration and development of properties located within Aboriginal groups asserted territories may affect or be perceived to affect asserted aboriginal rights and title, which may cause permitting delays or opposition by Aboriginal groups, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Amarc Resources Ltd., investors should review Amarc's annual Form 20-F filing with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

SOURCE: Amarc Resources Ltd.

View source version on accesswire.com:
Since 2008, Japan has had a tax called furusato nozei, which rewards people who pay it with a variety of luxury products. Initiated by Yoshihide Suga, Japans former Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications, the so-called hometown tax revenue is channeled to specific municipal governments in underpopulated areas of the country. People who donate to this program can select high-priced delicacies like Kobe beef, seasonal vegetables and wild abalone, a highly prized shellfish.

The website for Japans Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications explains the rationale for the hometown tax: Many people are born in rural areas and grow up in their villages. They receive various services from local governments, such as healthcare and education. Eventually, they move to urban areas for higher education or employment and start paying taxes there. As a result, the urban local governments receive tax revenue from them, while the local governments of their hometowns dont receive any. Wouldnt it be nice to have a system where you can choose to pay taxes to the hometown that raised you, even if you now live in a city?

To address the imbalance between Japans urban and rural areas, the furusato nozei asks Japanese citizens to pay a special tax (more like a mandatory donation) to the towns that produce their favorite foods or artisanal goods. In return, citizens get delicacies from those areas directly delivered to their homes. The town selected to receive the furusato nozei payment cannot be the citizens current place of residence.

Each municipal government can decide where to allocate the revenue  cleaning up the ocean, road safety for children, elderly care, preserving traditional culture, disaster recovery and more. The Kyotango City Council in Kyoto Prefecture has an online catalog of products to choose from that includes local craft beer, wagyu sirloin from the Moritaya farm, Nishiri pickled vegetables and canned wild abalone. The website touts its high-quality, artisanal products, offering donors a chance to discover unique items from Kyotango without leaving the comforts of home.

An individual can select how much to contribute through the furusato nozei system, and the amount deducted is based on a variable percentage of the residence tax. But the deductions are not directly proportional to the amount selected. The donation is subject to a maximum limit, which is determined based on factors like family size and composition, annual income and other relevant deductions. For instance, a single person earning five million yen annually ($33,345) can contribute a maximum of $425. If married, the maximum amount drops to $175, and if a family has children enrolled in college, it drops even further to $35. After making the online payment, the individual can select a return gift for home delivery. Companies providing gifts must register with the respective local governments. The criteria for accepting certain products vary by region, said Hanae Yoshida, an economic affairs spokesperson with the Japanese Embassy in Spain. The city of Saitama (central Japan) requires that the goods offered must be a value-added product made within the municipality and have roots there.

The system seems to work. The results for fiscal year 2021 were around 830.2 billion yen [$5.53 billion], about 1.2 times greater than the previous year, stated the annual report from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communication. Regarding the uses of the revenue, health programs top the list, followed by education and human resource development, child welfare, industrial development, environment, and sanitation.

However, the furusato nozei system also has its critics. Motohiro Sato, a fellow with the Research Institute of Economics, Trade and Industry (RIETI), wrote a paper on the Pros and Cons of the Hometown Tax Donation Program, challenging the premise of the program. To be sure, the program played a significant role in supporting municipalities affected by major disasters such as the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 as well as the Kumamoto earthquake and the Itoigawa fire in 2016. However, in ordinary times, municipalities are trying to garner donations by offering generous return gifts, while donor taxpayers typically choose municipalities that offer their preferred return gifts, rather than those to which they want to give support. As such, the hometown tax donation program is more like a government-subsidized mail order business than a donation program.

Sato argues that the current system encourages unhealthy competition among municipalities. They exploit legal loopholes to offer items like tablets and drones, defeating the original purpose of the tax, which is to foster a donation culture by offering incentives. By definition, donation is the act of giving money, without expecting anything in return, to help the cause or activity one wishes to support The hometown tax donation program, as it stands today, could spread the misperception that it is only natural to receive something for making donations, while what the government should be doing is to foster a positive public attitude toward charitable giving.

Sato also identified some unintended effects of the program. In some municipalities, the program has had significant influence on business decisions, for instance, prompting a seafood company to set up a new processing plant to respond to a sudden increase in demand for its products, which turned out to be popular return gifts However, when the boom is over, the seafood company may end up with excess capacity and massive debt.

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Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Aton Resources Inc. (AAN:TSX-V) ("Aton" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce that, further to its news release of September 26, 2023, it has closed its non-brokered private placement for proceeds of $3 million (the "Private Placement"). The net proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to fund continued exploration and development activities at Aton's Rodruin and Hamama concessions, located in Egypt, and for general working capital. All currency amounts in this news release are in Canadian dollars.

Private Placement Highlights:

Pursuant to the Private Placement, the Corporation issued 13,636,364 common shares (the "Shares") at a price of $0.22 per Share for total proceeds of $3,000,000.

All Shares issued in the Private Placement are subject to a hold period of four months plus one day from the closing date, expiring February 27, 2024.

Participation of Insiders in the Private Placement

Insiders, OU Moonrider ("Moonrider"), a significant shareholder of the Corporation, and Assem Soliman, a director of the Corporation, subscribed for a total of 12,996,364 Shares of the Private Placement. Participation by the insiders constitutes a related party transaction as defined under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 ("MI 61-101"). The Corporation is relying on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the participation by insiders in the Private Placement does not exceed 25% of the market capitalization of the Corporation, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.

Early Warning

On October 26, 2023, Moonrider purchased 12,921,364 Shares in the Private Placement. The 12,921,364 Shares were purchased at a price of $0.22 per Share for total consideration of C$2,842,700.08.

Prior to the Private Placement, Moonrider beneficially owned, controlled, or directed an aggregate of 28,064,962 Shares and 20,000,000 share purchase warrants, representing approximately 43.10% of the outstanding Shares of Aton on a non-diluted basis and approximately 56.47% on a partially diluted basis, assuming Moonrider's exercise of its warrants.

Following the Private Placement, Moonrider beneficially owns, controls, or directs an aggregate of 40,986,326 Shares and 20,000,000 share purchase warrants, representing approximately 52.04% of the outstanding Shares of Aton on a non-diluted basis and approximately 61.76% on a partially diluted basis, assuming Moonrider's exercise of its warrants.

Moonrider may, depending on market or other conditions, increase or decrease its beneficial ownership, control or direction over, or exercise its current rights to acquire, Shares through market transactions, private agreements or otherwise.

Moonrider's head office is located at Toompuiestee 37, 10133 Tallinn, Estonia. Aton's head office is located at 1700 - 666 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 2X8.

This press release is being disseminated as required by National Instrument 62-103 - The Early Warning System and Related Take Over Bids and Insider Reporting Issuers in connection with the filing of an early warning report.

in connection with the filing of an early warning report. An early warning report will be electronically filed by Moonrider with the applicable securities commission in each jurisdiction where Aton is reporting and will be available on Sedar Plus at www.sedarplus.ca.

About Aton Resources Inc.

Aton Resources Inc. (AAN:TSX-V) is focused on its 100% owned Abu Marawat Concession ("Abu Marawat"), located in Egypt's Arabian-Nubian Shield, approximately 200 km north of Centamin's world-class Sukari gold mine. Aton has identified numerous gold and base metal exploration targets at Abu Marawat, including the Hamama deposit in the west, the Abu Marawat deposit in the northeast, and the advanced Rodruin exploration prospect in the south of the Concession. Two historic British gold mines are also located on the Concession at Sir Bakis and Semna. Aton has identified several distinct geological trends within Abu Marawat, which display potential for the development of a variety of styles of precious and base metal mineralisation. Abu Marawat is 447.7 km2 in size and is located in an area of excellent infrastructure; a four-lane highway, a 220kV power line, and a water pipeline are in close proximity, as are the international airports at Hurghada and Luxor.

For further information regarding Aton Resources Inc., please visit us at www.atonresources.com or contact:

Tonno Vahk

Interim CEO

Tel: +1 604 318 0390

Email: [email protected]

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions; by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results in each case could differ materially from those currently anticipated in such 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.

SOURCE: Aton Resources, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
C-Bond Systems Discusses Significant Potential of Its Patented C-Bond Technology with The Stock Day Podcast

PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / The Stock Day Podcast welcomed C-Bond Systems, Inc. (OTC Pink:CBNT) ("the Company"), a San Antonio-based nanotechnology company and marketer of the patented C-Bond technology, which is proven to strengthen glass for architectural applications. Chairman and CEO of the Company, Scott R. Silverman, joined Stock Day host Matthew Dunehoo.

Dunehoo began the interview by asking about the Company's background and current projects. "C-Bond Systems is a company now based out of San Antonio, Texas, originally out of Houston, Texas, which emerged out of Rice University," explained Silverman. "We now have 22 patents or licenses related to our technology," he shared. "In a nutshell, we strengthen brittle materials," said Silverman, noting that the Company began its work in the glass sector and now has two products through its Patriot Glass Solutions division.

"How does C-Bond's technology differ from other competitors in this space?", asked Dunehoo. "We manufacture the fluid that goes in between the window film and the glass as the alternative adhesive agent to the common soap and water model," said Silverman. "Our technology is proven and patented to strengthen the underlying glass," he added. "Our most extreme example of this is our bullet-resistant solution with 3 levels of 15 mil window film and our chemical solution, C-Bond BRS, between each layer." he continued. "We are certified up to NIJ standard level IIA to stop five rounds at 15 feet."

"How does the technology compare in terms of installation costs?", asked Dunehoo. "We are bullet-resistant rather than bulletproof, and the result of that is a solution that can stop 5 rounds at varying distances but also represents about 25% of the standard cost and is much more aesthetically pleasing from a visibility perspective."

"How would you describe your primary markets?", asked Dunehoo. "The primary markets start with schools and commercial markets, followed by government, retail, and media outlets," said Silverman. "We have now installed our technology at over 130 schools across the country," he shared, adding that a majority of these installations have occurred in Texas. "Texas to-date is the only state in the country that has mandated the use of either security window film or security fencing around the perimeter of all 8,100 public schools in the state of Texas."

"We believe we are in a great position to at least be the best technology on the market, while creating sales and marketing opportunities internally, through our dealer network, or with partners to go out there and take over the opportunity within the school safety initiative space," continued Silverman.

The conversation then turned to the Company's upcoming investor call and 3rd quarter financial results. "We intend to educate investors over the next week or so about what Patriot Glass Solutions is and the direction of that division, all of which will be covered on the upcoming conference call, which will be announced shortly."

"How do people learn about these products and technology?", asked Dunehoo. "We have created a dealer network across the country that we continue to educate about our technology and the sales process," said Silverman, adding that the Company also works with a number of partners, including partners focused on school safety initiatives.

"Why is now the right time to invest in C-Bond Systems?", asked Dunehoo. "The simple answer is market demand and best technology," said Silverman. "The market demand has never been where it is now with safety technology," he said. "The state we are based in is the leading state right now when it comes to fortifying schools and providing school safety initiatives across the board," continued Silverman. "The world needs our technology."

To close the interview, Silverman elaborated on the Company's growth, as well as their successful 3rd quarter results, as they continue to develop life-saving products as the demand for safety technologies increases around the world.

To hear Scott Silverman's entire interview, follow the link to the podcast here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8390349-c-bond-systems-discusses-significant-potential-of-its-patented-c-bond-technology-with-the-stock-d

Investors Hangout is a proud sponsor of "Stock Day," and Stock Day Media encourages listeners to visit the company's message board at https://investorshangout.com/

About C-Bond

C-Bond Systems, Inc. (OTC Pink:CBNT) is a San Antonio-based nanotechnology company and marketer of the patented C-Bond technology, which is proven to strengthen glass for architectural applications. The Company's Patriot Glass Solutions division sells ballistic-resistant glass solutions and forced entry deterrent solutions to private enterprises, schools, and government agencies, primarily through its majority-owned subsidiary, A1 Glass Coating. For more information, please visit our websites: www.cbondsystems.com, www.patriotglasssolutions.com, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cbondsys/ and Twitter: https://twitter.com/CBondSys and https://twitter.com/Patriot_Glass.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements in this press release about our future expectations constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, and our actual results could differ materially from expected results. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the Company's ability to successfully commercialize its products; the Company's and its customers' ability to source materials; construction delays; film delays; the Company's ability to raise capital; regulatory risks; as well as other risks. Additional information about these and other factors may be described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") including its Form 10-K filed on March 31, 2023, its Forms 10-Q filed on August 14, 2023, May 15, 2023, and November 14, 2022, and in future filings with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this statement or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

Contact: Allison Tomek C-Bond Systems [email protected]

About The "Stock Day" Podcast

Founded in 2013, Stock Day is the fastest growing media outlet for Nano-Cap and Micro-Cap companies. It educates investors while simultaneously working with penny stock and OTC companies, providing transparency and clarification of under-valued, under-sold Micro-Cap stocks of the market. Stock Day provides companies with customized solutions to their news distribution in both national and international media outlets. The Stock Day Podcast is the number one radio show of its kind in America.

Contact:

Stock Day Media

StockDayMedia.com

(602) 821-1102

SOURCE: Stock Day Media







View source version on accesswire.com:
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / The Qualifying Transaction of AADirection Capital Corp. (the "Resulting Issuer"); (New TSXV Symbol:CTG) has been completed effective as of today's date. Pursuant to an amalgamation agreement, the Resulting Issuer acquired all of the issued and outstanding shares of Centenario Gold Corp. ("Centenario") in consideration for the issuance of 35,499,156 Resulting Issuer common shares ("Common Shares") on a 1:1 basis, with 1403285 BC Ltd. and Centenario amalgamating (the "Amalgamation") and continuing as a wholly owned subsidiary (the "Continuing Subsidiary") of the Resulting Issuer. The Resulting Issuer also issued 7,120,826 warrants to the former securityholders of Centenario and a further 784,986 finder's warrants were issued in connection with the concurrent financing as detailed below.

In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, the Resulting Issuer's name was changed from "AADirection Capital Corp." to "Centenario Gold Corp."

The Resulting Issuer will operate as a Tier 2 exploration issuer listed on the Exchange under the trading symbol CTG. The Company's new CUSIP number will be 15139A109 and its new ISIN will be CA15139A1093.Shareholders of the Company are not required to take any action with respect to the name change and are not required to exchange their existing share certificates for new certificates bearing the Company's new name. The transfer agent will send registered shareholders a new Direct Registration System advice (DRS) representing the number of Common Shares held by such shareholders in addition to the new warrants held by such warrant holders.

Concurrent Financing

As part of the Qualifying Transaction, Centenario issued 11,703,672 subscription receipts (the "Subscription Receipts") at a price of $0.15 per Subscription Receipt for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,755,550.80 (the "Offering"). Each Subscription Receipt automatically converted, without payment of additional consideration or further action by the holder thereof, into one Centenario unit (each, a "Unit") just prior to the Amalgamation. Each Unit was comprised of one common share (each, a "Common Share") in the capital of the Company and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a "Warrant"), exercisable at $0.30 per Warrant share for a period of two (2) years from issuance which securities were immediately exchanged 1:1 for securities of the Resulting Issuer.

In addition, upon conversion of the Subscription Receipts, Centenario paid to certain finders (the "Finders") cash commissions of $117,748, being 8% of the aggregate gross proceeds raised by such Finders and 784,986 Finder's Warrants (the "Finder's Warrants"), being 8% of the aggregate number of Subscription Receipts issued under the Offering to subscribers introduced by the Finders. Each Finder's Warrant was immediately exchanged 1:1 for finder's warrants of the Resulting Issuer and are exercisable at $0.15 per warrant share for a period of two (2) years following the date of issuance and exchange.

Resulting Issuer Outstanding and Escrowed Shares

Following the closing of the Qualifying Transaction, there are 41,499,156 Common Shares issued and outstanding on an undiluted basis. 11,735,832 Common Share (representing approximately 28.28% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on an undiluted basis and 89,166 Warrants of the Company have been deposited into escrow with Odyssey Trust Company pursuant to a Tier 2 value security escrow agreement, and an additional 2,000,000 Common Shares remain subject to a capital pool company escrow agreement, subject to initial releases from escrow as at the date of the "Final Exchange Bulletin" confirming acceptance of the Qualifying Transaction and resumption of trading which the Exchange has indicated will be issued shortly.

CEO Commentary

Alain Charest CEO, Director, stated "We are very pleased to have completed the Qualifying Transaction and concurrent financing. The hard work and due diligence of the Centenario and AADirection teams over the last six months has paid off in getting Centenario Gold Corp. listed and, shortly, trading, on the TSX Venture exchange under the symbol CTG. He further stated "We are very excited to start the maiden drill program on the Eden property that, to date, has proven to host exciting high-grade gold and silver targets. This initial drilling program is expected to start in mid-November and should be completed prior to Christmas."

Stock Option Grant

The Resulting Issuer has granted 3,100,000 incentive stock options to directors, officers, employees, and consultants of the Company under its stock option plan. The options are exercisable for a period of five years at a price of $0.15 per share and are subject to acceptance of the Exchange."

About the Resulting Issuer

Centenario Gold Corp. is a junior mineral exploration company formed to focus on exploring and generating high quality mineral prospects in Mexico. During 2020, the exploration team of Centenario visited and evaluated more than 12 mineral prospects before finding the Eden gold- silver property located near the old mining town of Cosala, Sinaloa, in Durango state of Mexico. On March 24th, 2021, after completing the preliminary evaluation work and due diligence review, Durango Gold Corp S.A de C.V., the 100%-owned Mexican subsidiary of Centenario Gold Corp., signed a 4-year option agreement to acquire 100% of the mineral rights to the Eden Au-Ag property, in exchange for annual cash payments, exploration expenditure requirements and a 1% NSR.

The Eden Property is located in the historical Cosala mining district on the border of western Durango State and southeastern Sinaloa State, Mexico, in the southwestern foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental, approximately 160 kilometres north of Mazatlan, Mexico. The Property consists of two (2) contiguous and titled mineral concessions named El Eden and El Eden 1, totalling 2,489 hectares. The Eden project contains a series of high-grade N to NE trending, epithermal Au-Ag vein structures that had never been systematically explored before. The Property's northern border is adjacent to Americas Gold & Silver's Nuestra Seora producing mine while the southern border is adjacent to Prime Mining's Los Reyes property. On May 2, 2023, Prime announced an updated mineral resource estimate for the Los Reyes project: 2.17 million measured, Indicated and Inferred gold equivalent ounces.

Centenario completed a first phase exploration program on the Eden property in late 2022. During that period, Centenario collected more than 300 rock samples from surface and underground workings and more than 700 soil samples along the Buenavista' prospect's mineralized corridor. Many rock samples returned high grades, as high as 239.94 g/t Au and 1389.91 g/t Ag. Centenario also completed semi-detailed mapping over a 2.8 km portion of the Buenavista' prospect's mineralized corridor, followed by an IP/Resistivity geophysical survey and soil sampling program. Additional geophysical and soil sampling studies were completed across the La Provedora' prospect located 1.5 km further to the east.

Board of Directors and Senior Management

In connection with the Qualifying Transaction, certain members of the board of directors have resigned from the Company. The board of directors and management is now comprised of:

Douglas Fulcher (President, Corporate Secretary and Director)

Alain Charest (Chief Executive Officer, VP Exploration and Director)

Kevin Milledge (Director)

Pablo Mendez (Director)

Xiao Qin (Mary) Ma (Director)

Jonathan Younie (Chief Financial Officer)

Full details of the Qualifying Transaction and related matters are set out in the filing statement of the Company dated May 11, 2023 (the "Filing Statement"). A copy of the Filing Statement can be found on the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

The registered and head office of the Resulting Issuer will be located at #615 - 800 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2V6.

For more information visit www.centenariogold.com.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Doug Fulcher

President, Director

For further information, please call:

Doug Fulcher 604-803-5901

Steve McGuire 604-762-7869

Alain Charest 011-52-618-299-9885

Telephone: (604) 684-0279

www.centenariogold.com

The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Statements in this press release, other than purely historical information, including statements relating to the Company's future plans and objectives or expected results, may include forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties inherent in resource exploration and development. As a result, actual results may vary materially from those described in the forward-looking statements

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Statements:

Certain information included in this press release, including information relating to future financial or operating performance and other statements that express the expectations of management or estimates of future performance constitute "forward-looking statements". Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding copper, gold and silver forecasts, the financial strength of the Company, estimates regarding timing of future development and production and statements concerning possible expansion opportunities for the Company. Where the Company expresses or implies an expectation or belief as to future events or results, such expectation or belief are based on assumptions made in good faith and believed to have a reasonable basis. Such assumptions may include, without limitation, the price of and anticipated costs of recovery of, copper concentrate, gold and silver, the presence of and continuity of such minerals at modeled grades and values, the capacities of various machinery and equipment, the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices, mineral recovery rates, and others. However, forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed, projected or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to, interpretation and implications of drilling and geophysical results; estimates regarding timing of future capital expenditures and costs towards profitable commercial operations. Other factors that could cause actual results, developments or events to differ materially from those anticipated include, among others, increases/decreases in production; volatility in metals prices and demand; currency fluctuations; cash operating margins; cash operating cost per pound sold; costs per ton of ore; variances in ore grade or recovery rates from those assumed in mining plans; reserves and/or resources; the ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; operational risks inherent in mining or development activities and legislative factors relating to prices, taxes, royalties, land use, title and permits, importing and exporting of minerals and environmental protection. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements and the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as at the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or revise any such forward-looking statements or any forward-looking statements contained in any other documents whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required under applicable security law.

SOURCE: Centenario Gold Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:
NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Maximus

By Michelle Link

In today's digitally connected world, social media plays a pivotal role in shaping potential employees' perceptions of organizations. As Maximus' Chief Human Resources Officer, I recognize the significance of employee engagement on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and other social media sites.

These platforms have become virtual mirrors reflecting an organization's culture, values, and employee satisfaction, influencing the decision-making process of job seekers and contributing to recruitment and retention efforts. A positive online presence can be a strategic advantage for a company's growth and success.

Recruitment

Indeed and LinkedIn are more than just job search platforms; they are where potential employees gain insights into an organization's company culture, employee experiences, and overall reputation. Positive employee interactions on these platforms are powerful testimonials that resonate with job seekers and entice them to explore opportunities within our organization. Negative feedback and the absence of employee engagement may deter potential candidates and undermine our recruitment efforts.

In an era of fierce competition for top talent, organizations must leverage every possible advantage to attract skilled professionals. Active and positive employee engagement on social media can significantly impact recruitment success. Job seekers are more likely to trust the word of employees sharing their experiences over posts created by corporate communications.

Authenticity

Through our employee advocacy program, we're able to empower our workforce to help tell our brand's story via social media. When employees talk about our company, they create a genuine and authentic portrayal of our company's culture and work environment. The program provides employees with resources to amplify their stories while elevating our attractiveness as an employer of choice. Encouraging and supporting open communication on social media platforms creates a sense of transparency and approachability within our organization. We can attract top talent and retain existing employees when they feel valued and acknowledged for their contributions.

Retention

Employee engagement on social media goes beyond the realm of recruitment. It plays a critical role in nurturing a sense of camaraderie and fostering an inclusive work culture. Satisfied employees who actively share their positive experiences create a ripple effect within the organization. Their enthusiasm and commitment inspire others to engage more, leading to higher retention rates and reduced turnover costs.

Employees who actively engage on social media are powerful advocates for our organization. Sharing their success stories, accomplishments, and growth experiences fosters a sense of pride and belonging among their peers. Seeing good news and positive employee experiences boosts morale and reinforces Maximus' brand image externally, driving interest from potential candidates who aspire to be a part of our thriving workforce.

Growth and Development

In addition to recruitment, authenticity, and retention, social media is a powerful tool for learning and development. Encouraging employees to share industry insights, best practices, and personal growth stories on platforms like LinkedIn can enhance our organization's reputation as a thought leader and attract like-minded professionals eager to learn and grow with us.

Social media also help us maintain employee relationships that we've cultivated over time. Maximus' Alumni Network on LinkedIn allows past employees to stay in touch with the company while enabling us to extend the employee engagement cycle and preserve existing connections. Active alumni who left on good terms can become brand advocates, expand the talent pool for open positions, and mentor current or prospective employees. Alumni can even provide business value. A 2019 study by Cornell University's School of Industrial Labor Relations found that alumni with regular access to company news are more likely to recommend the products and services of the organization.

Understanding the importance of employee engagement on social media is no longer optional, but necessary. Empowering our employees to be ambassadors on social media is not only an investment in our people but also an investment in the long-term success of our company. By embracing the power of employee engagement on social media, we are building an organization that encourages job seekers and reinforces our culture to employees.





View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Maximus on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Maximus

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/maximus

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Maximus

View source version on accesswire.com:
COPENHAGEN, DENMARK / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Detectly ApS, a Danish-founded company, is excited to announce the launch of their groundbreaking online service, "Detectly". This innovative solution is designed to provide business owners with real-time monitoring of their online presence, ensuring they are promptly alerted in the event of website downtime or disruptions to vital services crucial for their business operations.

Detectly offers a comprehensive suite of features, with its core functionality centered on monitoring websites and a multitude of online services, including payment providers, shipping integrations, booking systems, and more. These critical components are vital for the seamless operation of businesses in today's digital landscape.

The inspiration for Detectly arose from a relatable scenario when one of the company's close friends, who owns a popular restaurant, experienced a crisis due to a booking system failure. The CEO of Detectly ApS, Anton Hoelstad, emphasized the significance of this service, stating, "We experienced a need for the service when we saw a close friend that owns a popular restaurant, suddenly panicking over the telephone constantly ringing while not having the needed resources on the floor to take the reservations and service the guests, as their booking system was down."

Mr. Hoelstad further elaborated on the service's capabilities, explaining, "From now on, Detectly will immediately detect if the booking system is down, notify the owner, and automatically display a popup on the website that guides users to a fallback solution, such as a simple contact form or an email address - whatever suits the situation best."

Global Reach and Accessibility

Detectly aims to become the premier monitoring solution for business owners worldwide. In a market saturated with technical solutions tailored to programmers and network administrators, Detectly recognizes the need for a user-friendly, efficient solution that any business owner can set up in just a few minutes.

This service is designed to cater to businesses of all sizes, including those investing in various forms of advertising or relying heavily on their online presence for revenue generation.

For more information about Detectly and its advanced online presence monitoring features, please visit https://detectly.io

About Detectly ApS

Detectly ApS is a Danish-founded technology company dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions for business owners seeking to enhance their online presence and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vital online services. The company is committed to delivering user-friendly, immersive technology that simplifies the monitoring process and empowers businesses to thrive in the digital age.

Media Contact

Organization: Detectly ApS

Contact Person: Anton Hoelstad

Website: https://detectly.io/

Email: [email protected]

City: Copenhagen

Country: Denmark

SOURCE: Detectly ApS

View source version on accesswire.com:
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Perk Labs Inc. (CSE:PERK)(OTC PINK:PKLBF)(FKT:PKLB) ("Perk" or the "Company") the company that specializes in ordering and payment technology, is pleased to announce that the Carleton University Students' Association ("CUSA") has selected Perk's subsidiary Getit Technologies Inc. ("Getit") as their ordering and payment technology provider for the Carleton University campus and their student body.

Carleton is an Ottawa university with more than 30,000 students, and 2,400 staff and faculty members. As part of the multiyear partnership, Getit will rollout their web-based QR code ordering solution for CUSA's food outlets, starting with Ollie's Pub & Patio. Getit will also be facilitating ticketing and registration for all events hosted by the Carleton University Students' Association.

In addition to web-based ordering, the Getit platform is also providing CUSA with a mobile app featuring loyalty points, food & beverage ordering, ticketing and registration, as well as merchandise and retail offerings. Orders through the mobile app allow for both pickup and on-premise ordering.

"The CUSA executive team is very excited to partner with Getit Technologies, and we're looking forward to bringing Getit's custom app and payment solution to the Carleton campus" said Christine Falardeau, CUSA Director of Communications & Strategy. "Using Getit's technology, we are able to speed up order times for our busy students and keep more money on campus to continue providing the events, services, and programming that Carleton students enjoy".

With the new technology in place, students can look forward to a faster and more efficient order process, a unified payment platform, and custom loyalty benefits. CUSA will be able to leverage Getit's detailed data reporting to further improve the student experience at Carleton.

"Our team at Getit is looking forward to working with the CUSA executive team to digitalize their property and offering for their student body and faculty to truly take advantage of modern technology that enhances the student experience for a more efficient campus", said Ben Lacroix, Chief Development Officer.

About Perk Labs Inc.

Perk Labs, the owner of Getit Technologies Inc. and Perk Hero Software Inc. ("Perk Labs"), provides innovative mobile ordering and payment systems, allowing customers the ability to scan a QR code or NFC sticker to order and pay for their purchases directly from their phone. Perk Labs specializes in providing a single unified payment portal for complex purchase environments - environments that have multiple retailers processing an array of different transactions including food and beverage purchases, merchandise sales, ticketing, registrations, donations and even parking. Perk Labs provides a custom-branded solution that is ideal for multi-retailer venues such as stadiums and arenas, university and college campuses, conference centers, festivals, charity events and hotels and resorts. Perk Labs' platform integrates to existing POS software and hardware systems, reducing cost, complexity and staff re-training.

For more information, contact:

Ryan Hardy

CEO

(833) 338-0299

[email protected]

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements (collectively "forward-looking information") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is typically identified by words such as: "may", "believe", "thinks", "expect", "exploring", "expand", "could", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "plan", "pursue", "potentially", "projected", "should", "will" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. These forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties, relate to, among other things, the discussion of the Company's business strategies and its expectations concerning future operations. Although the Company considers these forward-looking statements to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect, and the forward-looking statements in this release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking information, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are based will occur.

SOURCE: Perk Labs Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 25, 2023 / Christians across 100 cities are showing up in their local Jewish communities with white roses on Thursday, Oct. 26, to express solidarity with the Jewish community and respond to the 1,200% increase in calls for violence against Jews since Oct. 7.

Christians in Atlanta Deliver White Roses

Roses were delivered to the Selig Center in Atlanta.

In a nod to the Nazi-era Resistance group called the White Rose, this symbolic gesture represents a powerful message of solidarity and friendship, emphasizing that the Jewish community is not alone in these times of darkness and loss.

Luke Moon, Deputy Director of The Philos Project, emphasizes the importance of this initiative. "At this moment, it is imperative that Christians physically show up to support Israel and the Jewish community. We have witnessed an increase in antisemitism around the globe in reaction to Israel defending herself in response to the massacre that occurred at the hands of Hamas. The Jewish community needs to know who their friends are now more than ever. As Christians, we must stand with the Jewish people and Israel. Christians in the past remained silent, and we refuse to do that again."

The Philos Project, an organization dedicated to promoting positive Christian engagement in the Near East by creating leaders, building community, and taking action in the spirit of the Hebraic Tradition, is at the forefront of this powerful demonstration of solidarity. This initiative is born out of a deep commitment to fostering solid bonds between Christian and Jewish communities in a time when support and unity are needed more than ever. As the world grapples with the aftermath of the Oct. 7 tragedy in Israel, The Philos Project encourages all Christians to join this collective gesture, conveying that love and friendship can triumph over hatred and division.

Contact Information:

Josefa Gonzalez

Director of Communications

[email protected]

SOURCE: The Philos Project

View source version on accesswire.com:
WEST PALM BEACH, FL / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / ZOT Enterprises, Inc., the driving force behind ZOTSupply.com, is proud to mark its one-year anniversary in the building automation industry. With a combined experience of over 20 years, the company's owners and executives have transformed their expertise into a remarkable success story from its headquarters in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Over the past year, ZOT Enterprises, Inc. has made significant strides in expanding its portfolio and enhancing its offerings. Notably, the company has forged partnerships with renowned manufacturers for the following: Building Automation Controls, Damper and Valve Actuators, Control Valves, Emergency Operator Stations, Flow Sensors, Freese Stats and Thermostats, Gas Monitoring, Humidity, Indoor Air Quality, Leak Detection, Lighting Contactors, Panel Enclosures, Power Controls, Power Monitoring, Power Supplies, Pressure, Relays, Rain and Snow Sensors, Temperature, and Variable Frequency Drives. The company's commitment to excellence is evident in its continuous efforts to add more high-quality products and manufacturers to its line card.

"Our journey over the last year has been remarkable, and we are deeply grateful for the support we've received," said AJ Phillips, President at ZOT Enterprises, Inc. "We attribute our success to the unwavering dedication of our team, the trust of our loyal customers, and the strong relationships we've built with our valued partners."

Michael Anderson, a project manager for a leading mechanical contractor, shares his experience. "The team at ZOT Supply has been our go-to source for building automation parts and assistance. Their extensive product range and industry expertise have been instrumental in helping us meet project deadlines and deliver top-quality results. We consider them an invaluable partner in our work."

As ZOT Enterprises, Inc. celebrates this one-year milestone, the company looks forward to a future filled with even greater innovation and success. Its vision is to continue serving mechanical and electrical contractors, system integrators, facility managers and building owners with unparalleled dedication, expanding its offerings, and providing exceptional support to its customers.

To learn more about ZOT Enterprises, Inc. and its journey, please visit the website at www.ZOTSupply.com.

For media inquiries, please contact:

AJ Phillips

President

ZOT Enterprises, Inc.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (561) 288-2746

Contact Information

AJ Phillips

President

[email protected]

(561) 288-2746

SOURCE: ZOT Enterprises, Inc. dba ZOTSupply.com

View source version on accesswire.com:
Navigator Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NVGS), the owner and operator of the worlds largest fleet of handysize liquefied gas carriers, announces the following changes to its board of directors:

With effect from November 15, 2023, Mr. David Kenwright, the Companys longest serving independent director, who joined the Board in March 2007 and served as Chair of the Companys Nomination and Remuneration Committees, contributing significantly to both, as well as being a committed member of the Companys Audit Committee, will resign as a director of the Board, after 16 years of dedicated service;



With effect from October 26, 2023, Ms. Janette Marx will join Navigators Board as a non-executive director.



Ms. Marx has significant business experience, with 25 years in the human resources and recruitment industry and is currently the Chief Executive Officer of private equity backed Airswift Group. Prior to joining Airswift Group in June, 2014, Ms. Marx spent 19 years at Adecco Group, where she ran the technical, engineering, medical and science divisions, as well as overseeing the integration of the Adecco Group finance business lines after the acquisition of MPS Group. Ms. Marx is a member of the board of directors of the American Staffing Association, Junior Achievement, CEOs Against Cancer, Greater Houston Womens Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of Houstons Bauer School of Business Business Engagement Committee. Ms. Marx holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and an MBA from Duke Universitys Fuqua School of Business.

With these changes, the Companys Board has increased from seven to eight members until November 15, 2023, the effective date of Mr. Kenwrights resignation, upon which the size of the Companys Board will decrease from eight to seven members.

Dag von Appen, Non-Executive Chairman of the Board, commented:

On behalf of the Board, I would like to express our sincere gratitude and thanks to David for his many years of steadfast service and his considerable contributions to the Company, in particular with respect to his role as Chair of Navigators Nomination and Remuneration Committees, as well as his many contributions as a member of the Audit Committee. It has been my pleasure and privilege to work alongside David and to benefit from his support during my time as Chairman. We wish him and his family all the very best for the future.

I am delighted to welcome Ms. Marx to Navigators Board, where she joins us from Houston, home to Navigators newest office location and the Companys ethylene export terminal joint venture. Janette brings extensive professional experience to the Company which will be a great asset as we build on Navigators success for the future. We look forward to working with her closely during this exciting time for the Company.
New briefing paper from 5G Americas details the dynamic trajectory of 5G devices, from ubiquitous smartphones to pioneering Reduced Capability and battery-less Ambient IoT devices, highlighting the versatile future of 5G technology.

BELLEVUE, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The landscape of 5G devices is evolving rapidly to meet the diverse needs of various use cases, ranging from smartphones to specialized IoT devices and emerging battery-less ambient IoT devices. Today, 5G Americas, the voice of 5G and beyond in the Americas, has introduced a briefing paper titled Evolving Devices for 5G Adoption which examines the evolution of 5G devices, shedding light on optimization and adaptation of 5G technologies that cater to a wide array of use cases.

Chris Pearson, President of 5G Americas, shared his perspective: "The evolution of 5G devices signifies a dynamic shift in connectivity, transforming industries and empowering individuals. From the power of smartphones to the promise of Ambient IoT, this 5G Americas briefing paper unveils the future diversity of 5G devices.

Key topics covered in this latest 5G Americas briefing paper include:

Device Characteristics: As 5G reshapes global communications, device features remain crucial. Characteristics like mobility, bandwidth, size, accessibility, cost, security, coverage, battery life and radio access technology influence the design and functionality of 5G devices for various applications.

As 5G reshapes global communications, device features remain crucial. Characteristics like mobility, bandwidth, size, accessibility, cost, security, coverage, battery life and radio access technology influence the design and functionality of 5G devices for various applications. Device Landscape: Beyond smartphones, the device ecosystem is rapidly growing to include AR glasses, voice-enabled devices and specialized IoT technologies. These developments are transforming industries, improving communication and enabling remote healthcare monitoring.

Beyond smartphones, the device ecosystem is rapidly growing to include AR glasses, voice-enabled devices and specialized IoT technologies. These developments are transforming industries, improving communication and enabling remote healthcare monitoring. Reduced Capability Devices: Initially, 5G New Radio technology focused on enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) applications. 3GPP later introduced Reduced Capability (RedCap) specifications in Release 17 to cater to low-throughput, cost-effective and energy-efficient use cases. These devices offer a balanced solution for data rate, latency and battery life.

Initially, 5G New Radio technology focused on enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) applications. 3GPP later introduced Reduced Capability (RedCap) specifications in Release 17 to cater to low-throughput, cost-effective and energy-efficient use cases. These devices offer a balanced solution for data rate, latency and battery life. Ambient IoT: Ambient IoT devices operate solely on energy harvested from their environment, eliminating the need for batteries. Characterized by their small form, low cost, and ultra-low power consumption, they find uses in various sectors, such as inventory management and environmental sensing.

According to Brian Daly, Assistant VP at AT&T and co-leader of the briefing paper stated, This paper encompassed a wide variety of current and future 5G devices, ranging from smartphones to the innovative RedCap and battery-less ambient IoT devices. We categorized these devices based on various factors, emphasizing optimization for IoT applications in terms of complexity, performance, and efficiency. He further added, Overall, the evolving landscape of 5G devices presents exciting opportunities across IoT, XR, and beyond."

Yuchul Kim, Principal Engineer, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc., and working group co-leader of this 5G Americas project stated, This 5G Americas paper provides a holistic view of how 5G devices are evolving to address the diverse needs of today's interconnected world and serves as a testament to the continuing innovation driving toward new services offered by the 5G industry.

About 5G Americas: The Voice of 5G and LTE for the Americas

5G Americas is an industry trade organization composed of leading telecommunications service providers and manufacturers. The organizations mission is to facilitate and advocate for the advancement of 5G and beyond throughout the Americas. 5G Americas is invested in developing a connected wireless community while leading 5G development for all the Americas. 5G Americas is headquartered in Bellevue, Washington. More information is available at 5G Americas website, LinkedIn, and X (formerly Twitter).

5G Americas Board of Governors Members include Airspan Networks Inc., Antel, AT&T, Ciena, Cisco, Crown Castle, Ericsson, Liberty Latin America, Mavenir, Nokia, Qualcomm Incorporated, Rogers Communications, Samsung, T-Mobile US, Inc., Telefonica, VMware, and WOM.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026847816/en/

5G Americas

Viet Nguyen

+1 206 218 6393

[email protected]

Source: 5G Americas
China and the United States appear to be restarting dialogue between their militaries, despite continuing disputes over Beijings claims to Taiwan and the South China Sea. Chinese reports, as yet not confirmed by Washington, say the U.S. will send a Department of Defense official to attend a Chinese Defense Ministry international gathering that aims to discuss international security cooperation and raise Chinas status as a global power.

China attaches great importance to the development of military-to-military relations between China and the United States, ministry spokesperson Col. Wu Xian said at a briefing on Thursday. China froze military exchanges after then-speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi last August visited self-governing Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory.

Chinas annual Xiangshan Forum is scheduled for Oct. 29-31. As we see it, the ranks of the personnel taking part in the exchanges are not the most important. What is more important are the contents of the exchanges, Wu said.

The comments came as Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi departed for Washington to meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. That follows a series of high-level visits from the United States to China in recent months. In the latest sign of thawing ties, Blinken met Chinese President Xi Jinping, the leader of the ruling Communist Party, in Beijing in June.

China had attributed its refusal to restart military communications to sanctions imposed by Washington, including a refusal to allow former defense minister Li Shangfu to visit the U.S.

However, on Tuesday China announced the removal of Li as defense minister without giving any explanation or naming a replacement. In answer to a reporters question on Lis removal, Wu said: I suggest you pay attention to the release of authoritative information. Former foreign minister Qin Gang was also removed from office this year under circumstances that the government has yet to explain.

Chinas highly opaque political system lends itself to heavy speculation around the reasons why officials are removed, mostly focusing on possible corruption, political differences or violations of an unwritten code of personal conduct.

China on Thursday also released video it said showed a close encounter between the Chinese navy and the USS Ralph Johnson, claiming the American destroyer harassed the navys latest-generation type 052 destroyer Guilin while it was undergoing routine training in the South China Sea on Aug. 19.

China claimed the USS Ralph Johnson took a sharp turn and accelerated, crossing the bow of the Chinese ship near the disputed Paracel Islands, which China calls Xisha. What the US side wants is to threaten Chinas national security with unrestricted provocation and nuisance against China Wu said, adding that the Chinese military is always on high alert and will take all necessary measure to firmly safeguard the sovereignty, security and maritime rights of the nation.

China claims almost all of the strategically vital South China Sea as its own territory. Neighboring countries, including U.S. ally the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also claim territory in the region.

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SYN Ventures Leads Investment in the Security Operations Platform and Managed Detection and Response Provider Making Sophisticated Security Attainable

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Adlumin, the security operations platform and managed detection and response (MDR) provider keeping mid-market organizations secure, today announced that it closed $70 million in Series B funding led by SYN Ventures, with participation from First In Ventures, Washington Harbour Partners and BankTech Ventures. This investment brings the companys total raised since inception to $83 million.

The funding will accelerate Adlumins growth and meet demand for the vast number of small and mid-market organizations that need an enterprise-grade solution with simplified pricing to defend against the same threats targeting the worlds largest businesses and government organizations. Adlumins proven ability to meet this demand through its modern platform, expert services, and channel-first approach has propelled the company to rank among the top 10% of Americas fastest-growing private companies and earn a spot on The Informations 50 Most Promising Startups list for 2023.

Organizations like law firms, banks, financial services firms, schools, manufacturers, and healthcare providers are the engines for economic and job growth and the backbone of the economy. But going beyond basic cybersecurity at these organizations has been generally overlooked or sadly out of reach. Adlumin is leading the charge to change that, said Jay Leek, managing partner at SYN Ventures. With an extremely healthy and fast-growing business thats meeting the needs of the middle market, this financing will help put Adlumin on an even steeper growth trajectory.

In the U.S. alone, 200,000 middle market businesses employ approximately 48 million people and represent one-third of the private sector GDP, according to The National Center for the Middle Market. The data these organizations must protect is just as sensitive, and the threats they face are just as severe as their larger counterparts. Still, they have not had access to the same cybersecurity skills or resources.

Verizons 2023 Data Breach Investigation Report points out that companies of all sizes now use similar services and infrastructure, so their attack surfaces share more in common than ever before. As the report notes: This has led to a convergence of attack profiles regardless of the size of the organization. However, what is very different is the ability of organizations to respond to threats due to the number of resources they can deploy in the event that they are attacked.

One License, One Platform: Empowering Organizations and Trusted Service Providers

Adlumins patented security operations platform provides organizations everything they need for sophisticated, enterprise-grade security. This includes SIEM, vulnerability scanning, threat intelligence, UEBA threat hunting, honeypots, automated incident response and forensics, darknet exposure monitoring, compliance reporting and monitoring, and much more  through one license and one platform. As a modern, cloud-based, and flexible platform built to be the command center for security operations, Adlumin is pre-integrated with solutions that augment its capabilities and can be easily integrated with others. This comprehensive approach makes cybersecurity simple and cost effective for mid-market organizations that have been mired by the sprawl of different point solutions.

"For anyone charged with protecting sensitive data, seeing an uptick in new data breaches in the news every day will definitely keep you up at night, said Ryan Blake, VP, Director of Information Technology at Blue Ridge Bank. Its become increasingly clear that hackers dont discriminate, so we needed a better security solution than what was previously available. Working with Adlumin has given us peace of mind like weve never had before because we know were supported by a team and technology platform with capabilities that are on par with any big business.

To address the challenges organizations face staffing their cybersecurity teams with qualified professionals, the Adlumin platform is specifically built to enhance collaboration with service providers who can deliver the type of expert support that is difficult for organizations to hire and retain on their own. Adlumin offers its own managed detection and response (MDR) services that provide customers with 24x7 human insights, threat hunting and trusted support. Adlumin also works closely with managed service providers (MSPs) and managed security service providers (MSSPs) who use its platform to serve their customers.

Regardless of who operates the platform, Adlumin delivers end-user organizations unmatched visibility into their security posture. Customers always have complete, real-time access to the Adlumin platform regardless of whether they are running it themselves or others are running it for them. This means they can see why an alert was identified and closed, can access investigation data, receive reporting and threat intelligence, generate compliance reports on-demand in a single click, and much more.

With a significant cybersecurity skills gap, hiring the right people is an expensive, challenging and sometimes impossible task for small and mid-sized organizations who are competing with big government and businesses for talent. This is why empowering service providers  whose expertise can be multiplied across several organizations  will be essential to securing mid-market organizations, and why we built a platform that does exactly that, said Robert Johnston, founder and CEO of Adlumin. With this funding, well continue expanding and strengthening our channel partnerships that are so critical to scaling and reaching the mid-market, and will always be innovating to better address our partners and end users evolving needs.

Most recently, new solutions Adlumin unveiled to address the security needs of middle-market organizations include a unique, subscription-based incident response service, and new financial protections including a no-cost warranty and discounted cyber insurance policies.

For more information on Adlumins security operations platform and MDR services, visit https://adlumin.com/platform/.

About Adlumin

Adlumin Inc. provides the enterprise-grade security operations platform and managed detection and response services that keep mid-market organizations secure. With one license and one platform, Adlumins patented technology and seamless integrations provide everything organizations need for effective threat hunting, incident response, vulnerability management, darknet exposure monitoring, compliance support, and more. Adlumin is feature-rich enough for organizations with in-house expertise to operate independently, yet purpose-built to enhance collaboration with and provide full, real-time visibility from trusted service providers. www.adlumin.com

Follow Adlumin: Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231024681392/en/

Adlumin:

Mike Reilly

fama PR for Adlumin

[email protected]

Source: Adlumin
MEXICO CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent), the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of a+ (Excellent) and the Mexico National Scale Rating (NSR) of aaa.MX (Exceptional) of Seguros Inbursa, S.A. Grupo Financiero Inbursa (Seguros Inbursa) (Mexico). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Seguros Inbursas balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

Seguros Inbursas balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalization at the strongest level, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The ratings also reflect the companys strong operating performance, driven by consistent profitability, mainly supported by a stable flow of investment income, as well as low underwriting leverage, a diversified business profile and the companys affiliation with Grupo Financiero Inbursa, S.A.B. de C.V. (Grupo Financiero Inbursa), one of the largest financial groups in Mexico.

Seguros Inbursa underwrites life and non-life business and remains one of the largest domestic insurance companies in Mexico. The company has shown disciplined underwriting in a highly competitive market, consistently reporting sufficient premium levels that compare positively with its closest competitors. This discipline also is reflected in its stable profitability metrics, which have remained in line with historical trends, presenting a return on capital and surplus of 10.6%, as of year-end 2022. In addition, investment results continue to be an important source of profitability for the company.

As of June 2023, the company posted MXN 2.4 billion in retained profit, showing resilience against current market conditions with no significant deviations from past operating performance metrics. The profitability reflects the efficiencies achieved in the operating expenses, as well as Seguros Inbursas efforts to contain its loss ratio.

Historically, Seguros Inbursa has operated with low underwriting leverage. The companys risk-adjusted capitalization remains supportive of its current ratings. Adjusted capital has increased at a compound annual growth rate of 6.6% during the past five years, and AM Best expects this trend to continue as a result of sound underwriting, conservative reserving and prudent dividend and investment policies, as well as an effective cost containment strategy. Furthermore, Seguros Inbursa continues to benefit from significant operating efficiencies afforded by Grupo Financiero Inbursas vast financial and system networks.

Partially offsetting these positive rating factors is the strong competition in Mexicos insurance market, which AM Best believes could pressure the companys profitability and market share, as well as the challenging state of the economy and volatile capital markets.

Key rating drivers that could lead to negative rating actions include sustained deterioration in operating results, or a significant weakening of its risk-adjusted capitalization. Positive rating movements could take place as a result of the successful consolidation of the business strategy in the medium term.

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 specializing 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/20231026539298/en/

Olga Rubo, FRM

Senior Financial Analyst

+52 55 1102 2720, ext. 134

[email protected]



Salvador Smith

Senior Financial Analyst

+52 55 1102 2720, ext. 109

[email protected]



Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]



Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
MEXICO CITY--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of a- (Excellent) of Seguros Reservas S.A. (Seguros Reservas) (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect Seguros Reservas balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as strongest, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management (ERM).

Seguros Reservas balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalization at the strongest level, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR). The ratings also reflect its strong operating performance, driven by consistent profitability, coming from a diversified book of business and contained underwriting leverage, as well as the companys affiliation with Banco de Reservas de la Republica Dominicana, Banco de Servicios Multiples (Banco de Reservas), the largest bank in the Dominican Republic.

Partially offsetting these positive rating factors is the strong competition in the Dominican Republics insurance market, which AM Best believes could pressure Seguros Reservas profitability and market share, the companys high dividend payout ratios and an ERM framework that has room for further sophistication.

Seguros Reservas underwrites life and non-life business and is one of the leading insurers in the Dominican Republic, currently holding a 15.3% market share as of December 2022.

In 2022, fire insurance continued to represent Seguros Reservas main line of business, accounting for 33% of gross written premium, followed by auto (28%) and life (21%), with the remainder (18%) in other lines of business. The company has shown disciplined underwriting in a highly competitive market, consistently reporting profitability that compares favorably with its closest competitors. In addition, investment income has remained stable, further contributing to positive bottom-line results.

Seguros Reservas risk-adjusted capitalization stands at strongest level, as measured by BCAR. Adjusted capital has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 19.1% during the past five years, and AM Best expects this trend to continue supported by sound underwriting, prudent dividend and investment policies, as well as an effective cost containment strategy. Furthermore, Seguros Reservas continues to benefit from operating efficiencies afforded by Banco de Reservas.

Positive rating actions could take place as a result of the continued growth of Seguros Reservas capital base in the medium term, supportive of the current level of risk-adjusted capitalization, and successful consolidation of the business strategy. Negative rating actions could occur if the companys risk-adjusted capitalization deteriorates to a level no longer supportive of the current ratings. Negative rating actions also could take place as a result of a sustained deterioration of the companys operating performance metrics to levels no longer supportive of the strong assessment.

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 specializing 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/20231026691232/en/

Olga Rubo, FRM

Senior Financial Analyst

+52 55 1102 2720, ext. 134

[email protected]

Alfonso Novelo

Senior Director, Analytics

+52 55 1102 2720, ext. 107

[email protected]

Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]

Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AM Best will host a market briefing on the state of the U.S. property/casualty insurance industry in conjunction with the American Property Casualty Insurers Associations (APCIA) Annual Meeting, on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, at 2 p.m. (EST) at the Marriott Copley Place in Boston. AM Best also will be co-hosting the Emerging Leaders Alumni Gala & Executive Experience, being held in conjunction with the APCIA meeting.

At the market briefing, Greg Williams, senior director, AM Best, will discuss outlooks for the personal and commercial lines of business within the U.S. property/casualty industry, as well as financial performance trends. Additionally, Greg Dickerson, director, AM Best, will address leading challenges faced by global reinsurance companies that are in turn affecting primary property/casualty insurers. Key issues facing the fronting carrier market and changes in distribution methods also will be covered during the briefing. The event will take place in the Suffolk Room at the Marriott Copley Place, the same location as the APCIA conference.

The purpose of the APCIA is to advocate for its members public policy positions in all 50 states and in the U.S. Congress, as well as to keep members current on the information that is critical to their businesses. The annual APCIA event runs from Nov. 5-7. AM Best also is sponsoring the opening cocktail reception on Sunday, Nov. 5, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. (EST) in the Grand Ballroom Foyer of the Marriott Copley Place.

Both events are open to APCIA attendees. To register, or for additional information about the APCIA and the annual conference, please visit the event webpage and agenda or email [email protected].

In addition, AM Best is co-hosting the Emerging Leaders Alumni Gala & Executive Experience on Nov. 5-6 with the APCIA and the Insurance Careers Movement at the Westin Copley Place (connected to the Marriott Copley Place). The Insurance Careers Movement is an industrywide initiative designed to raise awareness of the diverse career options that risk management and insurance offer, and AM Best is actively participating in the movement to address the industrys critical talent gap issue. During this event, participating Emerging Leaders alumni will have an opportunity to gain insights and network with top insurance industry executives and fellow Emerging Leaders alumni. AM Best also is sponsoring the Emerging Leaders Reunion Gala Dinner, taking place Sunday, Nov. 5, from 6:30 p.m.-9:00 p.m. in the America Ballroom South at the Westin Copley Place; Matthew C. Mosher, president and CEO of AM Best Rating Services, will deliver remarks. For more information, please visit the event page.

AMBest TV also will provide coverage of the annual meeting. For daily reports and interviews, look for the APCIA-related playlist under the Event Coverage 2023 tab at www.ambest.tv.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing 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/20231026168853/en/

Christopher Sharkey

Associate Director, Public Relations

+1 908 882 2310

[email protected]

Al Slavin

Senior Public Relations Specialist

+1 908 882 2318

[email protected]

Source: AM Best
More than 50% of small business cyber claims can be mitigated or prevented by an MDR solution says InsurSec provider

News Highlights

At-Bay introduces enterprise-grade Managed Detection and Response (MDR) security solution to help small businesses address widening security gap.

Small business cyber claims show more than 50% of cyber insurance claims over the past two years could have been mitigated or even stopped altogether by an MDR solution.

Businesses in the healthcare, financial services, and the professional, scientific and technical services sectors are the most likely to benefit from an MDR solution according to At-Bay claims data, including the likes of hospitals, banks, law firms, insurers, engineers, and consultants.

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- At-Bay, the InsurSec provider for the digital age, announced the launch of At-Bay Stance Managed Detection and Response (At-Bay Stance MDR) today - a new MDR solution designed to help emerging and mid-sized businesses advance their security defenses and threat preparedness in light of rising cyber crime rates. By analyzing its claims data from the past two years, At-Bay estimates that more than 50% of its customers cyber insurance claims could have been mitigated with an effective MDR solution1.

Managed Detection and Response (MDR) solutions have become a must-have for organizations of all sizes; however, getting affordable access to such solutions is difficult for small-to-medium sized businesses. By providing customers with an enterprise-grade software solution that can monitor their endpoints, which is then managed and monitored by At-Bays in-house security experts, the company is helping to address the critical technology, skills, and resource access gap preventing its customers, and most businesses in the US, from becoming more secure.

We know this new security solution will have a meaningful impact on the businesses in our portfolio, said Rotem Iram, CEO and Co-Founder of At-Bay and security veteran. Security for small businesses is broken. A critical technology, skills, and resources gap exists that many companies cant overcome. Our new MDR solution was built to change that. At-Bay Stance MDR will help to improve the cyber resilience and readiness of any business who uses it.

Key Highlights of At-Bay's MDR Offering

At-Bays MDR offering combines technology with human analysis to detect and respond to cyber threats before they escalate. Alongside the rest of At-Bays Stance portfolio, At-Bays newest security solution extends its capabilities to include managed endpoint protection. Key highlights include:

Proactive Threat Detection: Combines advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) technology with expert human analysis to proactively detect and respond to cyber threats before they escalate, all managed by At-Bay in-house. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.

Combines advanced endpoint detection and response (EDR) technology with expert human analysis to proactively detect and respond to cyber threats before they escalate, all managed by At-Bay in-house. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk of data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage. Tailored Solution: Every organization is unique and At-Bay understands that. At-Bays MDR services are fully customizable to meet the specific needs and risk profiles of their clients. Whether you're a growing business or a large enterprise, they have a solution for you.

Every organization is unique and At-Bay understands that. At-Bays MDR services are fully customizable to meet the specific needs and risk profiles of their clients. Whether you're a growing business or a large enterprise, they have a solution for you. Cost Effective: Customers that subscribe to top performing MDR services like the one offered by At-Bay, could be eligible for a premium credit on cyber insurance premiums due to their enhanced security.2 This means that investing in cybersecurity is not only a smart choice but also a cost-effective one.

We are uniquely positioned to understand and address the biggest security gaps within the small-to-mid market business community, said Thom Dekens, Chief Business Officer and GM of At-Bay Security. As a provider of both insurance and cybersecurity products, we have unprecedented insight into where security technologies and controls are excelling, and failing, and we are incentivized to help businesses fix these gaps quickly. Thats why we are launching an MDR solution today.

At-Bay Stance Managed Detection and Response (MDR)3 will be available as an optional service starting in January 2024 from At-Bays security affiliate. Businesses not currently insured by At-Bay who are interested in getting a quote that includes At-Bay Stance can do so by contacting their broker for more information. For more information about the new MDR offering, and to register your interest, please visit the Link Here.

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

______________________________

1Based on At-Bay analysis of At-Bay claims from Q4 2021 thorough to Q3 2023 that could potentially have been mitigated by a Managed Detection and Response product.

2Any premium savings will be based on the specific risk profile of the business.

3Stance MDR is an optional service offered by At-Bay's security affiliate. Stance MDR is not a requirement for insurance coverage through At-Bay.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026148545/en/

Jackie Gray, Corporate Communications

[email protected]

Source: At-Bay
VANCOUVER, British Columbia--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Avivo Biomedical Inc. (Avivo), a British Columbia-based preclinical-stage company, proudly announces a collaboration with Mayo Clinic through a know-how license agreement centering on Avivo's technology for Enzyme-Converted type O (ECO) organs that is intended to improve the utilization of donor organs for transplantation.

Avivo's proprietary enzyme system converts the blood type of human cells to Type-O, the universal donor type. This technology applies to donor organs for transplantation, as well as donor blood for transfusion. Avivo's technology addresses two long standing challenges in the transplant space: to increase the number of transplants and to create greater equity in the allocation of donor organs.

Under the agreement, select Mayo Clinic research staff will actively participate in the preclinical and clinical development of Avivo's technology, focusing initially on living donor kidney transplantation.

John Coleman, President & Chief Executive Officer at Avivo, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "A reflection of Avivo and Mayo Clinics commitment to advancing patient care, we are excited about this effort to ultimately optimize donor organ utilization."

Avivo looks forward to a productive collaboration with Mayo Clinic that will help advance its vision of a world without blood type constraints.

About Avivo

Avivo, a British Columbia-based preclinical-stage company, has identified enzymes that convert the cell surface antigens that determine a persons blood group to group O, the universal donor type. This innovative platform enables a world where a persons blood type is no longer the first constraint when they need life-saving organ transplants or blood transfusions. www.avivobio.com.

Mayo Clinic has a financial interest in the technology referenced in this press release. Mayo Clinic will use any revenue it receives to support its not-for-profit mission in patient care, education and research.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026610914/en/

Jason Kinnear

[email protected]

Source: Avivo Biomedical Inc.
COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Bread Financial Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: BFH), a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, flexible payment, lending and saving solutions, today announced its third quarter 2023 financial results. All earnings-related materials are now available at the companys investor relations website, here.

Bread Financial President and Chief Executive Officer Ralph Andretta and Chief Financial Officer Perry Beberman will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET today to discuss results. A link to the conference call will be available at the companys investor relations website, and a replay will also be available there following the call.

About Bread Financial

Bread Financial (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company providing simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions. The company creates opportunities for its customers and partners through digitally enabled choices that offer ease, empowerment, financial flexibility and exceptional customer experiences. Driven by a digital-first approach, data insights and white-label technology, Bread Financial delivers growth for its partners through a comprehensive suite of payment solutions that includes private label and co-brand credit cards and Bread Pay buy now, pay later products. Bread Financial also offers direct-to-consumer products that give customers more access, choice and freedom through its branded Bread Cashback American Express Credit Card and Bread Savings products.

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Bread Financial is powered by its 7,500+ global associates and is committed to sustainable business practices. To learn more about Bread Financial, visit breadfinancial.com or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026780274/en/

Brian Vereb  Investor Relations

[email protected]

Susan Haugen  Investor Relations

[email protected]

Rachel Stultz  Media

[email protected]

Source: Bread Financial
LIMA, Peru--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. and subsidiaries (NYSE: CPAC; BVL: CPACASC1) (the Company or Pacasmayo) a leading cement company serving the Peruvian construction industry, announced today its consolidated results for the third quarter (3Q23) and the nine months of the year (9M23). These results have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and are stated in Peruvian Soles (S/).

3Q23 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:

(All comparisons are to 3Q22, unless otherwise stated)

Revenues decreased 6.7%, mainly due to a contraction in demand, which affected the self-construction segment, as well as a stagnation in public investment. However, compared to 2Q23, revenues increased 16.9%.

decreased 6.7%, mainly due to a contraction in demand, which affected the self-construction segment, as well as a stagnation in public investment. However, compared to 2Q23, revenues increased 16.9%. Sales volume of cement, concrete and precast decreased 11.5%, mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons. However, when compared to 2Q23, sales volume increased 14.5%.

of cement, concrete and precast decreased 11.5%, mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons. However, when compared to 2Q23, sales volume increased 14.5%. Consolidated EBITDA of S/128.9 million, a 3.2% increase, mainly due to efficiencies derived from the use of our own clinker as well as lower costs of raw materials.

of S/128.9 million, a 3.2% increase, mainly due to efficiencies derived from the use of our own clinker as well as lower costs of raw materials. Consolidated EBITDA margin of 24.9%, a 2.4 percentage point increase, mainly due to the above-mentioned decreased costs.

of 24.9%, a 2.4 percentage point increase, mainly due to the above-mentioned decreased costs. Net income of S/ 46.0 million, a 4.1% increase mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons.

9M23 FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:

(All comparisons are to 9M22, unless otherwise stated)

Revenues decreased 9.1%, mainly due to the low levels of private and public investment, which affected cement demand, as well as the impact of cyclone Yaku during the first months of the year.

decreased 9.1%, mainly due to the low levels of private and public investment, which affected cement demand, as well as the impact of cyclone Yaku during the first months of the year. Sales volume of cement, concrete and precast decreased 15.2%, mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons.

of cement, concrete and precast decreased 15.2%, mainly due to the above-mentioned reasons. Consolidated EBITDA of S/ 362.2 million, a 2.9% decrease, mainly due to decreased revenues, partially offset by lower costs.

of S/ 362.2 million, a 2.9% decrease, mainly due to decreased revenues, partially offset by lower costs. Consolidated EBITDA margin of 25.2%, a 1.6 percentage point increase, mainly due to improved cost structure, as well as the halt in use of imported clinker and the use of lower cost raw materials.

of 25.2%, a 1.6 percentage point increase, mainly due to improved cost structure, as well as the halt in use of imported clinker and the use of lower cost raw materials. Net income of S/ 133.0 million, a 3.6% decrease, in line with lower revenues as mentioned above. However, net income margin increased 0.5 percentage point, reaching 9.2% during this period.

For a full version of Cementos Pacasmayos Third Quarter 2023 Earnings Release, please visit https://www.cementospacasmayo.com.pe/inversionistas/reportes

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION:

Cementos Pacasmayo will host a conference call on Thursday, October 26, 2023, to discuss these results at 9:30 a.m. Lima Time and 10:30 am Eastern Time.

To access the call, please dial:

+1 (718) 866-4614 from within the U.S.

Access code: 505256

There will also be a live Audio Webcast of the event at:

https://mm.closir.com/slides?id=505256

You can also find additional dial-in numbers depending on your current location in the above link.

About Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. is a cement company, located in the Northern region of Peru. In February 2012, the Companys shares were listed on The New York Stock Exchange - Euronext under the ticker symbol "CPAC". With more than 60 years of operating history, the Company produces, distributes, and sells cement and cement-related materials, such as concrete blocks and ready-mix concrete. Pacasmayos products are primarily used in construction, which has been one of the fastest-growing segments of the Peruvian economy in recent years. The Company also produces and sells quicklime for use in mining operations.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025557976/en/

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.

In Lima, Peru:

Manuel Ferreyros, CFO

Claudia Bustamante

Investor Relations Manager

+51-958699760

[email protected]

Source: Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A.
Aiming to support the internally displaced experiencing financial hardships

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Chicago Atlantic has announced, as part of its Trident strategy, The Pioneering Affordable Housing Initiative, aiming to develop affordable housing at cost for internally displaced Ukrainians experiencing financial hardships in areas of highest need.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026228128/en/

From front to back: Chicago Atlantic Trident Partners Dmitriy Lampert and Konstantinos Nakis alongside Chicago Atlantic Co-Founders Andreas Bodmeier and John Mazarakis, reviewing plans for affordable housing on a working visit to Ukraine. (Photo: Business Wire)

Chicago Atlantic Trident is Chicago Atlantics impact investing strategy supporting international reconstruction efforts to rebuild a prosperous Ukraine. The strategy plans to invest in projects, companies and organizations that create measurable social and developmental impact. The strategy focuses on real estate development across Ukraine, including multi-family homes urgently needed to aid an estimated 5.1 million internally displaced Ukrainians and help bridge the current housing finance gap, as well as industrial facilities to expand priority industries warehousing and logistics capabilities.

We are here to provide immediate housing and kick-start Ukraines economic revitalization, said Matthew Taylor, Chicago Atlantic Trident Partner and CEO. We believe the prosperity of Ukraine is essential to ensuring the safety of all democratic nations, and we are committed partners in Ukraines journey towards stability and prosperity.

The Trident strategy, while deeply rooted in rigorous investment prudence, holds at its core the transformative vision of being an instrument of societal rejuvenation in post-conflict Ukraine. Allocating a significant amount of its total portfolio to developing affordable housing at cost is a testament to this vision. It pledges collaboration with local authorities, NGOs and community leaders to ensure housing projects align with broadscale reconstruction efforts and offer sustainable, resilient homes, incorporating construction techniques to withstand future challenges and ensure long-term sanctuaries.

The Chicago Atlantic Trident team began work in Ukraine earlier this year, meeting with government organizations, private equity investment groups and development partners in Kyiv and Lviv. Chicago Atlantic formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UkraineInvest, the Ukrainian Governments investment promotion office. This partnership will facilitate effective coordination between Chicago Atlantic and the Ukrainian Government, providing timely resolution of systemic challenges and offering legal, informational and analytical support.

About Chicago Atlantic

Chicago Atlantic Advisers, LLC ("Chicago Atlantic") is a private market investment manager combining deep expertise with an entrepreneurial approach to multi-asset class investing. Established in 2019, the firms Founding Partners John Mazarakis, Tony Cappell and Andreas Bodmeier have grown Chicago Atlantics private investment strategies to include opportunistic credit, private equity and impact investing. Chicago Atlantic has made over $2 billion in credit and equity investments to date.

Chicago Atlantic employs 60+ professionals with offices in Miami, Florida and Chicago, Illinois and plans to open an office in Kyiv, Ukraine. For more information on Chicago Atlantics impact investing strategy, visit chicagoatlantic.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026228128/en/

Alise M. Edgcomb

(419) 202  3988

[email protected]

Source: Chicago Atlantic Advisers, LLC
Partners will spotlight the changing landscape and the growing emphasis on customer experience in B2B payments

FORT LEE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Cross River Bank (Cross River), a technology infrastructure provider that offers embedded financial solutions, will be hosting a live-streamed conversation with Visas Veronica Fernandez, SVP, Head of Visa Commercial Solutions North America and Anthony Peculic, Heads of BaaS and Cards at Cross River on November 1st at 12pm ET.

The discussion will focus on Visa's journey navigating the unique experiences of both the consumer and B2B sectors, the evolution and impact of consumerization on B2B payments, current challenges, and advice for commercial solutions of the future.

Until recently, an emphasis on the customer experience was mainly reserved for consumer-focused businesses, said Anthony Peculic. However, as the B2B landscape experiences a paradigm shift, we expect more focus on the customer experience and are thrilled to have Veronica join us to share her unique expertise on the industry.

The Company previously hosted a webinar series centered on faster payments featuring industry experts from Astra, Trustly, Plaid, Paymints.io, The Clearing House, American Fintech Council, This Week in Fintech, Axios, Bank Director, FinClusive, Sardine and Orum. Now, the mic passes to Visa for the launch of the new initiative, In Conversation With. Interested parties can learn more about the first installment and register here.

About Cross River

Cross River provides technology infrastructure powering the future of financial services. Leveraging its proprietary real-time banking core, Cross River delivers innovative and scalable embedded payments, cards, and lending solutions to millions of consumers and businesses. Cross River is backed by leading investors and serves the worlds most essential fintech and technology companies. Together with its partners, Cross River is reshaping global finance and financial inclusion. Member FDIC. Find out more at www.crossriver.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026060335/en/

Media

Mackenzie DeLuca

201-808-7000 ext. 778

[email protected]

Source: Cross River Bank
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Can the president fight any war he wishes? Can Congress fund any war it chooses? Are there constitutional and legal requirements that must first be met before war is waged? Can the United States legally attack an ally?

These questions should be critical to a public debate over the U.S. military involvement in Ukraine and the Middle East. Sadly, there has been no great debate. The media are mouthing what the CIA is telling them, and only a few websites and podcasts  my own, "Judging Freedom" on YouTube, among them  are challenging the government's reckless, immoral, illegal and unconstitutional wars.

Here is the backstory.

All power in the federal government comes from the Constitution and from no other source. Congress, however, has managed to extend its reach beyond the confines of the Constitution domestically by spending money in areas that it cannot regulate and in foreign policy by looking the other way when presidents initiate military violence.

Under the Constitution, only Congress can declare war on a nation or group. The last time it did so was to initiate American involvement in World War II. But Congress has given away limited authority to presidents and permitted them to fight undeclared wars, such as President George W. Bush's disastrous invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, and the War Powers Resolution of 1973.

Congress cannot legally declare war on Russia or Gaza, since there is no militarily grounded reason for doing so. Neither Russia nor Gaza poses any threat to American national security.

Congress not only has not declared war on Russia; it has not authorized the use of American military force against it. Yet, it has given President Joe Biden a blank check for $113 billion and authorized him to give cash and military equipment to Ukraine, however he sees fit.

He has promised to continue giving Ukraine whatever it needs for "as long as it takes." As long as it takes to do what? He cannot answer that because he has no clear military objective. Eliminating Russian troops from eastern Ukraine and Crimea or Russian President Vladimir Putin from office are not realistically attainable military goals. Congress has only authorized cash and weapons to be sent to Ukraine, but Biden has sent troops as well.

As of this writing, Congress has not authorized any military assistance to Israel, yet Biden has sent 2,000 Marines to await his orders on an aircraft carrier in the eastern Mediterranean, and he has put special forces on the ground in Gaza.

The U.S. involvement in Vietnam began the same way: no declaration of war, no authorization for the use of military force, yet a gradual presidentially ordered buildup of American troops as advisers and instructors, and then a congressionally supported war that saw half a million American troops deployed, 10% of whom came home in body bags.

We don't know how many American troops are in Ukraine, as they are out of uniform and their whereabouts a secret. We do know that they are involved in hostilities, since much of the hardware that Biden has sent requires American know-how to operate and maintain. And some of the weaponry has American troops actually targeting Russian forces and pulling the triggers.

Are American soldiers killing Russian soldiers? Yes. Are they helping to kill civilian residents of Gaza? Yes. Has any of this been authorized by Congress? No.

Now back to the Constitution.

The War Powers Resolution, which requires presidential notification to Congress of the use of American military force, is unconstitutional because it consists of Congress giving away one of its core functions  declaring war. The Supreme Court has characterized delegating away core functions as violative of the separation of powers. Stated differently, Congress cannot constitutionally authorize or permit the president to use the military in a non-defensive manner.

Nevertheless, Biden has not informed Congress of his intentions to use American troops violently. Yet, he has used the Navy and the CIA to attack Germany by destroying the Nord Stream Pipeline; he has sent soldiers out of uniform to Ukraine; and he has dispatched Army, Navy and Marine personnel to wartime Israel.

Don't be surprised if Biden gives War Powers Act notice secretly to the Gang of Eight. The Gang of Eight is the Congress within the Congress. It consists of the chairs and ranking members of the House and Senate Intelligence Committees and the Republican and Democratic leaders of the House and Senate with which the president legally shares secrets.

Just as Congress cannot delegate away its war-making powers to the president, it cannot delegate them away to the Gang of Eight. The concept of the Gang of Eight is antithetical to democratic values. Informing them of whatever violence the president is up to is done under an oath of secrecy. What kind of democracy operates and kills in secret and disenfranchises 95% of its elected federal representatives?

The various treaties to which the U.S. is a party limit its war-making to that which is defensive, proportional and reasonable. So, if a foreign power is about to strike  like on 9/11, while the government slept  the president can strike first in order to protect the U.S.

Beyond an imminent attack, the basis for war must be real, the adversary's anti-U.S. military behavior must be grave, the objective of war must be clear and attainable, and the means must be proportionate to the threat.

Has the Russian military threatened the U.S.? No. Have the Palestinian people? No. What grave acts of aggression has either committed or threatened against the U.S.? None.

Do we actually repose the Constitution into the hands of those who ignore it? Does the Congress uphold the Constitution? Does the president? The answers are obvious. It is also obvious that Joe Biden loves war and wants to run for reelection as a wartime president. And he seems to be getting his way.

(COMMENT, PLEASE, BELOW)

Andrew P. Napolitano, a former judge of the Superior Court of New Jersey, was the senior judicial analyst at Fox News Channel. Judge Napolitano has written seven books on the U.S. Constitution.
The Thai judiciary has postponed the hearing in which Daniel Sancho  the 29-year-old Spaniard who confessed to having killed and dismembered Colombian surgeon Edwin Arrieta on the island of Koh Pha-ngan  was to hear the charges being brought against him by the prosecution, due to the absence in the courtroom of an interpreter able to translate from Thai to Spanish. The provincial court on the island of Koh Samui, where Sancho has been held since August 7, has assigned him a court-appointed lawyer after the defendants father, Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho, who is in Thailand, dispensed with the services of lawyer Anan Chuayprabat due to discrepancies in the defense. The hearing has now been postponed until November 13. The prosecution, which delivered its final report on the crime on Wednesday, accuses the Spaniard of premeditated murder, concealment of the body and destruction of other peoples documents. The first of these crimes is punishable by death in Thailand.

Daniel Sancho, accompanied by Thai police officers on August 7. SOMKEAT RUKSAMAN (EFE)

The hearing in the Samui court began early in the morning with the attendance of Sancho, who had to answer whether he accepted or rejected the charges being brought against him by the prosecution. No sooner had the hearing begun, it was postponed for a few hours by the judges, and then suspended until next month due to the defendants request for a Thai-Spanish translator. It was Sanchos second appearance in person before the court since he was remanded in custody. On other occasions, he has followed proceedings via videoconference.

Thursdays hearing also served for the court to assign a public defender to Sancho. The chosen lawyer, Krit Sudthanom, said at the gates of the courthouse that he had not yet met with Sancho and will not do so until November 13. The Spaniard has not had legal representation in Thailand, where the law dictates he can only be defended by local counsel, since September 7.

Sancho, whose case has generated worldwide media interest, has been in pre-trial detention in Samui jail since August 7, after he was arrested two days earlier on the neighboring island of Pha-ngan after confessing to the murder and dismemberment of Arrieta, whose remains were scattered in garbage containers on the island and in the sea.

Krit Sudthanom, the public defender assigned to Daniel Sancho. SITTHIPONG CHAROENJAI (EFE)

Thailands Penal Code provides for the death penalty for crimes such as premeditated murder, but if capital punishment is imposed, it is usually later commuted to life imprisonment. On the other hand, the confession and cooperation of the accused can help to significantly reduce the sentence, as the judge himself reminded Sancho on August 7, when he was brought before the court. The police delivered its report to the Prosecutors Office on October 3, after two months of investigation into the alleged crime, which took place on August 2 on Pha-ngan.

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Adolescents who talked to Woebots study app had reductions in symptoms of depression that were statistically indistinguishable from those experienced in clinician-delivered therapy

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Woebot Health today announced positive results from a study at Childrens Hospital of The Kings Daughters (CHKD) showing that the digital mental health intervention W-GenZD, a Woebot-based study app, led to reductions in depressive symptoms that were non-inferior to those achieved by a clinician-led telehealth Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) skills group. Participants in both the W-GenZD and telehealth groups reported a significant reduction in depressive symptoms (PHQ-8) from baseline to end of treatment (week 4) and had similar levels of intervention feasibility and satisfaction. The results were presented in a poster presentation at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) conference.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026083262/en/

This is the first known study to compare an agent-based digital mental health intervention to a therapist-led therapeutic intervention in a real-world clinical setting. It included multiple methods of safety monitoring of adolescents in both interventions. There were no serious adverse events in either group and no unanticipated adverse device effects in the W-GenZD group. The findings suggest a potential role for W-GenZD within outpatient mental health care clinics to address the ongoing adolescent mental health crisis.

The study was conducted by Woebot Health in collaboration with CHKD, a hospital and outpatient mental health clinic that uses a stepped care approach to triage patients depending on their presenting level of need. The 141 teen participants were actively seeking outpatient mental health services for symptoms of depression and/or anxiety and represented a mix of identities (92% non-Hispanic, 49% White, 34% African American and 60% heterosexual). The study was designed to investigate the feasibility, satisfaction and non-inferiority (for PHQ-8) of W-GenZD (n = 71) compared to a group receiving CBT skills delivered via telehealth and led by a licensed mental health clinician (n = 70).

Importantly, both groups developed similar levels of therapeutic working alliance, meaning perceived alliance between the teen and the human group leader or between the teen and Woebot. Therapeutic alliance measures the relationship between provider and patient/participant, with research indicating that it is an important predictor of therapeutic outcomes. Previous research from Woebot Health has found that people reported formation of a therapeutic bond similar to the bond formed with human therapists in other studies.

The pandemic exacerbated a long-standing crisis of unmet pediatric mental health needs into a national state of emergency, prompting President Biden to highlight youth mental health as a priority in his 2023 State of the Union address and the Biden-Harris Administration to more recently provide more than $200 million in funding to expand youth mental health care services. Even before the skyrocketing demand for mental health services, CHKD had embarked on a major expansion of its team and services, including state-of-the-art preventive, outpatient and inpatient services in a new mental health facility.

The unprecedented need for child mental health services, along with a national shortage of pediatric mental health providers, requires us to look for innovative approaches to provide support, said Mary Margaret Gleason, MD, Vice Chair of Pediatrics at CHKD and Kay W. Abiouness Distinguished Professor at Eastern Virginia Medical School, and principal investigator of the study. This study offered us a chance to examine a novel intervention that could help address adolescent anxiety and depression on their own schedule, in a familiar, digital environment. The positive findings indicate that high-quality, rigorously studied mobile health apps can be considered as part of our toolkit to address the child mental health crisis.

One of the study participants confirmed the most helpful aspect of W-GenZD was its accessibility. If I needed help immediately, I could get it. I think just knowing I had someone or something there to help me out reduced some of my anxiety.

Woebot Healths Chief Clinical Officer Athena Robinson, PhD, added, This is a transformational time for evidence-based, technology-supported care, and it has been rewarding to work with an organization interested in evaluating new approaches to expand services for teens in need. We look forward to additional collaborations that examine and showcase technologys potential to set a new framework for care.

Study design and methodology

Between May 2022 and February 2023, after a clinical visit to the CHKD facilities, participants were triaged into standard outpatient mental health care and were screened and randomized to W-GenZD or a CBT Skills Group. Assessments were at baseline, 4 weeks end of treatment and 8-weeks end-of-study and included: a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) assessing depression symptoms; a Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) score assessing anxiety symptoms; a Working Alliance InventoryShort Form (WAI-SR) score; a Usage Rating ProfileIntervention Revised (URP-IR) score for feasibility; and a Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ-8) satisfaction rating. A non-inferiority test was used to evaluate the study aim comparing the reduction in PHQ-8-measured depression symptoms between the two interventions at the end of treatment. Clinical trial information is available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05372913.

About Woebot Health

Woebot Health is the mental health ally for people and businesses that is answering the skyrocketing need for mental health care by breaking down the systemic constraints that block equal access to it. Our relational agent, Woebot, is at the heart of a powerful platform that can tailor products for specific intended uses and patient populations. Its also the foundation of our solutions, which offer CBT-based support tools for adults, adolescents and new mothers. We work directly with virtual primary care companies, payers and IDNs to put scalable and validated mental health solutions directly in the hands of those who need them. For more information, visit woebothealth.com

W-GenZD is not evaluated, cleared or approved by the FDA. It may be considered as an adjunct to clinical care. It does not replace clinical care.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026083262/en/

Margot Carlson Delogne

[email protected]

(781) 492-1039

Source: Woebot Health
DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- GC Aesthetics, a long-established brand in breast aesthetics, and Bimini Health Tech (Bimini), a pioneer in healthcare solutions, are pleased to announce their groundbreaking Joint Venture partnership aimed at revolutionizing breast reconstruction worldwide.

This strategic collaboration combines GC Aesthetics' 40 years experience in design, manufacturing, and distribution of Silicone Breast Implants with Bimini's expertise in Breast Reconstruction innovation. The result: an unprecedented commitment to providing women with best-in-class solutions for breast reconstruction across the globe, including the USA, LATAM, EMEA, and APAC.

Under the umbrella of the Joint Venture named OPALINE Aesthetics, GC Aesthetics will deploy Biminis healthcare solutions outside the United States and Canada. Conversely, Bimini will commercialize selective GC Aesthetics breast reconstruction solutions into the United States which will complement its industry leading Puregraft portfolio of technologies that offer a broad set of solutions to plastic and reconstructive surgeons.

We want to provide patients around the globe, state-of-the-art breast reconstruction solutions with a demonstrated best in class safety profile, said Carlos Reis Pinto, CEO of GC Aesthetics. The combination of Bimini and GCA portfolios will not only expand patient access to broader solutions but it will also lead to the development of new technologies which will improve the standard of care in Breast Reconstruction, said Brad Conlan, CEO and co-founder of Bimini Health Tech.

The driving force behind this partnership is a shared commitment to patients and plastic surgeons. By joining forces, GC Aesthetics and Bimini Health Tech aim to elevate women's healthcare and well-being, offering comprehensive support for breast reconstruction needs.

Breast Reconstruction requires dedication and commitment to Women Healthcare. Collectively we will embark on this journey to contribute to women's Health and well-being, partnering with medical professionals around the world.

About GC Aesthetics

GC Aesthetics is a long-established global medical technology company that develops, manufactures, and markets a comprehensive range of proprietary aesthetic and reconstructive products. Throughout its 40-year history, GCA has been dedicated to advancing the science of medical aesthetics and delivering high-quality breast implants for breast augmentation and breast reconstructive surgery. We have sold more than 3 million implants across 70 countries, and our products are supported by published 10-year clinical data.

Learn more at www.gcaesthetics.com

About Bimini Health Tech:

Founded in 2013, Bimini Health Tech is a global leader in the regenerative, aesthetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery sectors. Backed by decades of experience, Bimini is committed to the development, acquisition, and commercialization of innovative products that provide premium solutions for patients and physicians. Our portfolio includes the brands Puregraft (Adipose Filtration System, Serene Breast Implant, Essence Acellular Dermal Matrix), Healeon, Dermapose, and Kerastem. Supported by over a 100 patents, 20 device clearances and approvals, and over 25 scientific publications, Biminis products have been utilized in over 1.5 million procedures worldwide.

Learn more at www.biminihealthtech.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026545758/en/

Carlos Reis Pinto

[email protected]

Source: GC Aesthetics
NEEDHAM, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- International Data Corporation (IDC) today published its worldwide information technology (IT) industry predictions for 2024 and beyond. This IDC FutureScape report provides IDC's top 10 predictions on the future of the IT Industry and how "AI Everywhere" will affect technology decisions as organizations seek to extend their digital business efforts.

This year's predictions are largely centered around the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) as a major inflection point in the technology industry. While AI is not a new technology  companies have been investing heavily in predictive and interpretive AI for years  the announcement of the GPT-3.5 series from OpenAI in late 2022 captured the world's attention and triggered a surge of investment in generative AI. As a result, IDC expects worldwide spending on AI solutions will grow to more than $500 billion in 2027. In turn, most organizations will experience a notable shift in the weight of technology investments toward AI implementation and adoption of AI-enhanced products/services.

"Every IT provider will incorporate AI into the core of their business, investing treasure, brain power, and time," said Rick Villars, group vice president, Worldwide Research at IDC. "For CIOs, and digitally savvy C-Suite members, this pivot promises a cornucopia of new, innovative, AI-enhanced products/services but also threatens to inundate IT teams with many 'now with AI' options that increase risks associated with uncontrolled cost increases and loss of data control."

IDC's FutureScape 2024 research focuses on the external drivers that will alter the global business ecosystem over the next 12 to 24 months and the issues technology and IT teams will face as they define, build, and govern the technologies required to thrive in a digital-first world.

A closer look at IDC's top ten worldwide IT industry predictions reveals the following:

1. Core IT Shift: IDC expects the shift in IT spending toward AI will be fast and dramatic, impacting nearly every industry and application. By 2025, Global 2000 (G2000) organizations will allocate over 40% of their core IT spend to AI-related initiatives, leading to a double-digit increase in the rate of product and process innovations.

2. IT Industry AI Pivot: The IT industry will feel the impact of the AI watershed more than any other industry, as every company races to introduce AI-enhanced products/services and to assist their customers with AI implementations. For most, AI will replace cloud as the lead motivator of innovation.

3. Infrastructure Turbulence: The rate of AI spending for many enterprises will be constrained through 2025 due to major workload and resource shifts in corporate and cloud datacenters. Uncertainty about silicon supply will be joined by shortcomings in networking, facilities, model confidence, and AI skills.

4. Great Data Grab: In an AI Everywhere world, data is a crucial asset, feeding AI models and applications. Technology suppliers and service providers recognize this and will accelerate investments in additional data assets that they believe will improve their competitive position.

5. IT Skills Mismatch: Inadequate training in AI, cloud, data, security, and emerging tech fields will directly and negatively impact enterprise attempts to succeed in efforts that rely on such technologies. Through 2026, underfunded skilling initiatives will prevent 65% of enterprises from achieving full value from those tech investments.

6. Services Industry Transformation: GenAI will trigger a shift in human-delivered services for strategy, change, and training. By 2025, 40% of services engagements will include GenAI-enabled delivery, impacting everything from contract negotiations to IT Ops to risk assessment.

7. Unified Control: One of the most challenging tasks for IT teams in the next several years will be navigating the maturation of control platforms as they evolve from addressing a few basic systems to becoming a standard platform that orchestrates operations across infrastructure, data, AI services, and business applications/processes.

8. Converged AI: Today's fascination with GenAI should not delay or derail existing or other AI investments. Organizations must contemplate, trial, and bring to production fully converged AI solutions that allow them to address new uses cases and customer personas at significantly lower price points.

9. Locational Experience: The accelerated adoption of GenAI will enable organizations to enhance their edge computing use cases with contextual experiences that better align business outcomes with customer expectations.

10. Digital High Frontier: Satellite-based Internet connectivity will deliver broadband everywhere, helping to bridge the digital divide and enabling a host of new capabilities and business models. By 2028, 80% of enterprises will integrate LEO satellite connectivity, creating a unified digital service fabric that ensures resilient ubiquitous access and guarantees data fluidity.

IDC's worldwide IT industry predictions are presented in full detail in the report, IDC FutureScape: Worldwide IT Industry 2024 Predictions (IDC #US50435423). Copies of this report are available to qualified members of the media. To request a copy of the report, or to schedule a one-on-one interview with Rick Villars, please contact Michael Shirer at [email protected].

Rick Villars will also discuss IDC's IT industry predictions in a webinar to be held on November 1st at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time. This will be the first of five FutureScape webinars focusing on IDC's 2024 predictions. The other webinars are:

Worldwide Artificial Intelligence and Automation 2024 Predictions , November 8 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, featuring Ritu Jyoti

, November 8 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, featuring Ritu Jyoti Worldwide Digital Business 2024 Predictions , November 29 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, with Tony Olvet & Craig Powers

, November 29 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, with Tony Olvet & Craig Powers Worldwide CIO Agenda 2024 Predictions , December 6 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, with Daniel Saroff & Mona Liddell

, December 6 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, with Daniel Saroff & Mona Liddell Worldwide Emerging Technologies 2024 Predictions, December 13 at 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern time, featuring Rick Villars

Details and registration for each of these webinars can be found at www.idc.com/events/futurescape.

About IDC

International Data Corporation (IDC) is the premier global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, and events for the information technology, telecommunications, and consumer technology markets. With more than 1,300 analysts worldwide, IDC offers global, regional, and local expertise on technology, IT benchmarking and sourcing, and industry opportunities and trends in over 110 countries. IDC's analysis and insight helps IT professionals, business executives, and the investment community to make fact-based technology decisions and to achieve their key business objectives. Founded in 1964, IDC is a wholly owned subsidiary of International Data Group (IDG), the world's leading tech media, data, and marketing services company. To learn more about IDC, please visit www.idc.com. Follow IDC on Twitter at @IDC and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the IDC Blog for industry news and insights.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026971064/en/

Michael Shirer

508-935-4200

[email protected]

Source: International Data Corporation
A leading automation solutions provider for the dental industry to use IntelePeers AI-driven Communications Automation Platform to improve patient experience

DANIA BEACH, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- IntelePeer, a leading provider of AI-powered communications automation solutions, has partnered with Dental Robot, the first intelligent automation platform designed for dental support organizations (DSO) to transform the $30B DSO marketplace where most calls and communications have changed very little in the last 20 years. Created initially to automate the insurance verification process, Dental Robot will now implement IntelePeers communications automation platform (CAP) to deliver an omni-channel, self-serve environment to its customers patients in order to improve data integrity within RCM (Revenue Cycle Management). To kick off the partnership, the two companies will be presenting at Beckers Healthcare Future of Dentistry Roundtable.

Were excited to introduce the power of generative AI to the Dental Robot platform, taking the patient experience to the next level through the use of AI and automation, commented Frank Fawzi, CEO at IntelePeer. Working together, IntelePeer and Dental Robot solve two major pain points for the industry  insurance processing and the ability for patients to effectively self-serve without the need of costly human intervention. By using our communications automation platform, dental practices will be able to reduce labor costs, deliver personalized communications across channels, and see a return on their investment in a matter of weeks.

Powered by AI, IntelePeers platform automates communications in a low-code and seamless manner. The platform leverages Azures OpenAI to enable users to build communications-enabled workflows that integrate seamlessly with existing processes. Moreover, users can create intelligent AI voice and messaging bots based on customer interactions, CRM information, and other data sources to enrich the patient experience. IntelePeers communications automation platform functionalities available to Dentist Robot customers include:

True omnichannel experience automating messaging, chat, and email interactions.

Virtual assistants harnessing built-in natural language processing and generative AI.

Automated appointment scheduling, confirmation reminders, and rescheduling capabilities for both new and existing patients.

Easy integration to CRM and other business applications.

Self-serve data gathering capabilities and automated bill payment.

Practice-specific Q&A database along with generative AI used to enable robust responses to thousands of questions.

By partnering with IntelePeer, well continue to improve both front- and back-office experiences for dental practices nationwide, said Manuel Barroso, Chief Executive Officer, Dental Robot. Together, were enabling practices to decrease manual processes, increase staff productivity, and save hundreds of hours a week by tapping into the power of AI and automation.

As part of the partnership, IntelePeer will join forces with Dental Robot to present at industry events across the country. The first event, Beckers Healthcare Future of Dentistry Roundtable, will feature Manuel Barroso and IntelePeer executives, Joe Galinanes and Corbin Fields, discussing how AI and automation can positively impact the patient experience in a session titled: Streamlining Customer Service and RCM with AI Automation. The presentation takes place on October 26, 2023, at 3:30 pm.

For more information about IntelePeer products and services, visit: www.intelepeer.ai.

About IntelePeer

IntelePeer simplifies communications automation through advanced AI-powered solutions, helping businesses and contact centers reduce costs, enrich the customer experience, and accelerate ROI. Its AI-driven Communications Automation Platform works seamlessly within existing business software and infrastructure, enabling brands to automate complex processes quickly and effortlessly. Built for business users, IntelePeer's vendor-neutral platform leverages world-class generative AI and analytics, empowering businesses to proactively resolve potential pain points and maintain context across channels and throughout the orchestrated customer journey.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026557087/en/

IntelePeer:

Valerie Christopherson or Lora Wilson

Global Results Comms (GRC)

+1 949 608 0276

[email protected]

Source: IntelePeer
The companys technology, which removes the engineering complexity around AI systems for image analysis, will initially assist medical professionals

Founder co-created Madbits, a deep-learning image-analysis start-up that was acquired by Twitter

PARIS & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lecole AI, creator of EO, a machine teaching technology that removes the engineering complexity around deep-learning systems for computer vision, announced that it has raised 3 million USD in Seed funding from Sofinnova Partners. The funds will be used to develop the companys proprietary technology, which will be rolled out to medical professionals and researchers, enabling them to create bespoke AI systems to assist in their area of expertise. In addition, the financing will fuel the expansion of the team, accelerate product development and structure business efforts. Also participating in the round are notable business angels including Preston-Werner Ventures, the fund started by co-founder and former CEO of GitHub, Tom Preston-Werner.

We're building a user interface for AI so anyone can create and benefit from their own personalized AI assistant, said Louis-Alexandre Etezad-Heydari, Co-Founder and President of Lecole AI, which means "AI school" in French. We also are creating a system that will open possibilities for secure collaboration between organizations.

Etezad-Heydari co-founded Madbits, a deep-learning image-analysis start-up, with Clement Farabet in 2013. A year after its founding, Madbits was acquired by Twitter, where the two entrepreneurs ran Twitter Cortex, an internal team that built a Deep Learning platform to power recommendation systems, search, ranking and filtering at Twitter.

Kim Nilsson and Jonathan Alexander Brown teamed up with Etezad-Heydari to perfect the AI development framework for computer vision that initially inspired Madbits, and the three founders set off with the goal to make creating computer vision models simple enough for non-engineers.

L'ecoles technology is designed to democratize machine learning by enabling life science researchers and other non-machine learning experts to utilize tailored computer vision systems, thus accelerating life sciences research, said Edward Kliphuis, Partner at Sofinnova Partners. The focus on digital medicine is a logical entry point, he noted.

Were starting with a focus on health care and life sciences because we want to make a positive impact right away, said Jonathan Alexander Brown, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer. With Sofinnova's support, we are confident we have the right skills to partner with researchers and clinicians in these tightly regulated markets.

Farabet, an investor in Lecole, is an AI pioneer. Currently VP of Research at Google DeepMind, he spent six years as a senior executive at NVIDIA, working on its autonomous vehicles and the company's data science platform. Farabet is also famous in the AI world as one of the creators of Torch, a machine learning framework that provides a simple and flexible interface for building and training deep neural networks.

Lecole AI counts a number of other AI pioneers among its investors, including Nicolas Pinto, head of Deep Learning at Apple, Clement Delangue, Co-Founder and CEO at Hugging Face.

About the Founders

Jonathan Alexander Brown, Co-Founder and CEO

A mathematician-turned-actuary, Jonathan has crafted statistical models for natural catastrophes (wildfires, hurricanes, earthquakes, etc.) and introduced innovative risk management and data-analysis strategies at top multinational companies. He has navigated regulated environments throughout his career, always with a keen focus on addressing the needs of key stakeholders.

Louis-Alexandre Etezad-Heydari, Co-Founder and President

Louis-Alexandre is a computer vision pioneer, a successful entrepreneur, and an accomplished artist who dropped out of the Neuroscience PhD program at New York University to found Madbits in 2013 with Clement Farabet. The pair "built visual intelligence technology that automatically understands, organizes and extracts relevant information from raw media, Etezad-Heydari said when Madbits was acquired by Twitter.

Kim Nilsson, Co-Founder and CTO

Kim has more than 20 years' experience as a software engineer. A former senior developer at Opera, he has always displayed the hacker spirit, solving one of the biggest cryptocurrency heists ever in his spare time, an effort the Wall Street Journal described in detail.

About Sofinnova Partners

Sofinnova Partners is a leading European venture capital firm in life sciences, specializing in healthcare and sustainability. Based in Paris, London and Milan, the firm brings together a team of professionals from all over the world with strong scientific, medical, and business expertise. Sofinnova Partners is a hands-on company builder across the entire value chain of life sciences investments, from seed to later-stage. The firm actively partners with ambitious entrepreneurs as a lead or cornerstone investor to develop transformative innovations that have the potential to positively impact our collective future.

Founded in 1972, Sofinnova Partners is a deeply established venture capital firm in Europe, with 50 years of experience backing over 500 companies and creating market leaders around the globe. Today, Sofinnova Partners has over 2.5 billion under management. For more information, please visit: sofinnovapartners.com

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025907622/en/

Press

CEO and Co-Founder

Jonathan Alexander Brown

[email protected]

Source: Lecole AI
WORCESTER, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Machado, the areas leading proactive managed IT services and cybersecurity provider, is honored to secure a position on the acclaimed 2023 Inc. 5000 list, a testament to their unparalleled growth and dedication in the IT services sector. This award is a testament to the company's steadfast growth from 2019 to 2022, driven by its proactive approach to IT and cybersecurity that stands out in an often reactive industry landscape.

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list are distinguished for their outstanding revenue growth, commitment to independence, and demonstrable successes in their industry. Qualifying for this list is an honor, and it recognizes businesses that have showcased commendable growth and resilience.

The success of Machado cannot be accredited to numbers alone. CEO Helder Machado emphasized, "This achievement is a collective effort. Our dedicated team and our loyal clients have been paramount in earning this award. Their trust and partnership drive us to provide top-notch services consistently."

Specializing in proactive IT management and cybersecurity, Machado offers services spanning compliance, vulnerability and risk assessment, backup, disaster recovery, and cloud services. Given the rising importance of cybersecurity, Machados specializes in servicing highly regulated professional services like banking, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, and more.

From growing up in Portugal to serving under Secretary Colin Powell in Iraq, Helder Machados diverse experiences have infused Machado with a distinctive spirit. His personal and professional experiences have shaped the company's core values, emphasizing the Golden Rule in all interactions. "My family, my employees, and my clients...I treat them all the same...like family," shares Helder. This personal touch and dedication to relationship-building have undoubtedly contributed to the company's success.

Machado goes beyond business, with a commitment to the Greater Worcester community. Each team member dedicates 4-8 hours monthly to volunteer at local organizations, a reflection of the firm's ingrained dedication of giving back.

About Machado

Established in 2001 in Worcester, MA, Machado is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) founded on the idea that high-quality IT solutions and support should be more than a proactive tool that protects your business. IT should be an agile team that is an extension of your business and helps you anticipate events. As a Top 10 Managed Service Provider (MSP) in Massachusetts, Machado helps you unlock the full potential of your business with proactive, managed IT and cybersecurity solutions from a team that cares and prepares you to be ready for the next cyberattackopportunityauditcompliance eventor transformation.

Inc. 5000 Methodology

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026699678/en/

Media:

Helder Machado

CEO/CISO, Machado Consulting, Inc.

[email protected]

Source: Machado Consulting, Inc.
Companys appointment of Canadian CEO Alfie Atkinson to CEO of UK signals exciting growth opportunities in priority market

LONDON & NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- MiQ, the leading global programmatic media partner, today announced several strategic hires as part of the company's commitment in shaping the future of programmatic, further cementing its position as the preeminent authority on digital advertising for customers and the industry at large.

To spearhead efforts in one of MiQ's priority markets, the company has appointed Alfie Atkinson as CEO of UK, which hell serve in addition to his current role as CEO of Canada. Having launched and rapidly grown the Canadian business to what it is today, Atkinsons new role will be integral to driving innovation for the UK. He will also work with the UK leadership team to continue to foster a client-first approach  helping partners achieve their business objectives in the ever-changing programmatic space.

"I'm incredibly excited to lead our UK business, which is so core to MiQ's identity and legacy," said Alfie Atkinson, MiQs CEO of UK and Canada. "Our team continues to be laser-focused on making MiQ the leader in all-things programmatic, and double down on what makes us so invaluable to our clients  purpose-built technology, underpinned by the sharpest data insights, and executed by the industrys most proficient traders, analysts, and data scientists. Im excited to work alongside the incredibly talented team here, and build upon our amazing culture while being bold and fearless in our quest to make the programmatic industry better.

MiQ has also hired three new senior executives to join its global leadership team:

Suzanne Strasser Grant as EVP, Global Head of Agencies & Partnerships , based in New York. With 25+ years of experience in sales and business development, and previous leadership roles at notable TV, print, and tech companies including Google, Snap, NBCU and Uber, Suzanne will play a crucial role in enhancing MiQ's partnerships, especially with major holding companies and brands across the globe.

, based in New York. With 25+ years of experience in sales and business development, and previous leadership roles at notable TV, print, and tech companies including Google, Snap, NBCU and Uber, Suzanne will play a crucial role in enhancing MiQ's partnerships, especially with major holding companies and brands across the globe. Danny Hopwood as Global Chief Commercial Strategy Officer , based in London. Danny brings 15+ years of experience in the digital media industry - previously working for WPP, Publicis, and OMG - and is a seasoned strategist in implementing innovative and effective media solutions that enable growth in both commercial output and capability development. He will use his extensive digital media, marketing, programmatic and ad tech expertise to drive integrated technology and product partnerships with MiQs biggest customers.

, based in London. Danny brings 15+ years of experience in the digital media industry - previously working for WPP, Publicis, and OMG - and is a seasoned strategist in implementing innovative and effective media solutions that enable growth in both commercial output and capability development. He will use his extensive digital media, marketing, programmatic and ad tech expertise to drive integrated technology and product partnerships with MiQs biggest customers. Mauricio Leon as Global Chief Commercial Trading Officer, based in London. As a longtime executive of global trading for companies like Spotify and Omnicom Group, Mauricio will be integral to MiQs global commercial trading relationships with holding companies and independent agency partners.

"For a decade, Alfie Atkinson has proven himself as a vital leader and visionary for the Canadian market and were confident that he will be instrumental in taking our UK business to new heights, said Richard Dunmall, President of MiQ. With the additional expertise from Suzanne, Danny, and Mauricio across programmatic strategy, integrated partnerships, and global trading as well  were in an incredible position to double down on our mission to transform the industry, unlock new possibilities in programmatic, deliver the solutions and shared success our global customers deserve, and ultimately make MiQ evermore indispensable moving forward."

About MiQ

Were MiQ, a programmatic media partner for marketers and agencies. We connect data from multiple sources to do interesting, exciting, business-problem-solving things for our clients. Were experts in data science, analytics and programmatic trading, and our team of people are always ready to react and solve challenges quickly, to make sure youre always spending your media investments on the right things in the right places.

Headquartered in London, MiQ operates globally from 18 offices located across North America, Europe, and APAC. Our company has been recognized numerous times for our stellar contributions both internally and externally including for Ad Ages 2023 Best Places to Work Award, 2022 Inc. Programmatic Power Players list, and AdExchangers Programmatic Power Players list in 2022, 2021, and 2020.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026649737/en/

Media:

Nicole Sullivan

Gregory FCA

[email protected]

Source: MiQ
ARLINGTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The National Automatic Merchandising Association today announced the opening of its call for speakers to present at The NAMA Show 2024, focusing on client and consumer convenience services. The event will be held May 7 to 9, 2024 in Dallas.

NAMA will accept speaking proposals through Nov. 16 for sessions tied to business operations, business development, leadership, consumer trends, technology innovation, networking, and business essentials. In addition to experts from the convenience services industry, NAMA encourages experts from adjacent industries to share their knowledge and experience. Relevant fields include hospitality, health care, universities, transportation centers, community living, and so forth. Proposals can be for a standard 45-minute session or 90-minute deep-dive session.

The NAMA Show is the premier education event for the convenience services industry, says NAMA Vice President, Programs and Services, Kristen Griffith. As the industry looks to fill new roles and serve new customers  from being part of the food desert solution to delivering a more engaging experience in the workplace  The NAMA Show is the place for operators to come for practical insight.

The NAMA Show 2024 will feature a full slate of education sessions, an expansive trade show and the return of popular features, such as Imagination Way. The event draws several thousand attendees, including convenience services operators and exhibitors offering products and services tailored exclusively to the convenience services channel.

To submit a proposal or suggest a topic, complete the Call for Speakers form on The NAMA Show 2024 website.

NAMA represents the $34.9 billion U.S. Convenience Services Industry. By providing advocacy, education, and research, NAMA works to promote and protect the industrys over 160,000 hardworking employees. Through traditional vending and micro markets, office coffee and pantry services, product manufacturing, and small-drop distribution, convenience services meets the needs of over 40 million American consumers daily at work, home, school, and play. Visit NAMA on Facebook, X and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026679815/en/

Isabel Shocket

Source: NAMA
COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Battelle, a world leader in solutions to combat the proliferation of the contaminant known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), has bolstered its staff with the addition of noted PFAS expert Shalene Thomas.

Thomas has joined the organization as the Emerging Contaminants Program Manager and in her role, she will provide thought leadership and drive technology investments as well as service offerings for Battelles growing PFAS and other emerging contaminant programs.

Prior to joining Battelle, Thomas filled similar emerging contaminants roles. She has more than 25 years of experience in environmental consulting that includes 15 years of experience providing PFAS strategic management services to government and commercial clients in 32 different states, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

Battelles environmental business is anchored in delivering new technology, providing analytical chemistry services, and performing R&D and consulting to solve clients technical challenges.

We are thrilled to have Shalene on our team, said John Razzolini, Battelle Business Line Director. She brings an incredible resume and experience that will be a force multiplier to our market leading expertise in PFAS and emerging contaminants.

Battelles Environmental Division Manager, Amy Dindal, said, Weve been working in this space for decades and Shalene brings a fresh perspective to help us lean into new ideas and map out our strategy for the future.

Thomas currently serves as an aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) leader for the ITRC PFAS Team, the Risk Communication leader for the ITRC CEC Team and serves as a trainer for the ITRC Risk Communication Toolkit. She also serves as a Planning Board member for the NFPA AFFF Fire Road Map project and recently joined the ASTM Consumer Products-F15 (23-12) committee evaluating PFAS in products. She has provided PFAS and AFFF training across North America and has presented on the topic of PFAS globally.

Im so excited to join an organization like Battelle that not only is a technical leader in PFAS assessment, characterization, remediation, and destruction, but also has a larger mission of using science for societal benefit and returning profits to support STEM education, Thomas said. By harnessing the exceptional talent across the environmental, health, and industry markets we serve, I look forward to expanding innovative emerging chemicals services and solutions for our clients.

About Battelle

Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle serves the national security, health and life sciences, and energy and environmental industries. For more information, visit www.battelle.org.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026287150/en/

Katy Delaney

(614) 424-7208

[email protected]

T.R. Massey

(614) 424-5544

[email protected]

Source: Battelle
SENECA, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Oconee Federal Financial Corp. (OTCQX: OFED) (the Company), the holding company for Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association (Oconee Federal), announced today that the Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.10 per share of the Companys common stock. The dividend will be payable to stockholders of record as of November 9, 2023, and will be paid on or about November 22, 2023.

About Oconee Federal

Oconee Federal Financial Corp. (OTCQX: OFED) is the holding company of Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association. Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association is a federally chartered savings and loan association founded in 1924 and headquartered in Seneca, South Carolina. Oconee Federal Savings and Loan Association is a community oriented financial institution operating eight full-service branch locations in Oconee County, South Carolina, Pickens County, South Carolina, Stephens County, Georgia and Rabun County, Georgia.

For financial information, please access our investor information page on our website at www.oconeefederal.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Companys and the Associations industry, and managements beliefs and assumptions. Words such as anticipates, expects, intends, plans, believes, estimates and variations of such words and expressions are intended to identify fiscal year forward-looking statements. Such statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to forecast. Therefore, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026662700/en/

Investor/Media Contact:

Curtis T. Evatt

President & Chief Executive Officer

Oconee Federal Financial Corp.

864-882-2765

Source: Oconee Federal Financial Corp.
While the Gaza Strip, besieged by the Israeli army in response to the attacks by the Islamist militia Hamas on October 7, teeters on the brink of a humanitarian collapse, the European Union is seeking a common term to describe a temporary pause in the bombings to allow much-needed aid to enter the area. Member states, however, are divided on how to do it: some partners consider the concept of a ceasefire too strong and advocate calling for humanitarian pauses or humanitarian windows, which they see as less permanent, EU sources said.

But as the situation in the Gaza Strip worsens  people are trapped there without water, electricity or food and on the verge of running out of fuel  some voices worry that the EUs internal debate over semantics will further damage its standing in the Middle East and end its possibility of playing a role, not just as a mediator but as a prominent interlocutor in the conflict.

On Thursday and Friday in Brussels, at a summit charged with high geopolitical content, the EU heads of state and government will try to agree to an intermediate formula that reflects the sensitivities of all member states, calls for channeling aid to Gaza and at the same time reflects Israels right to defend itself and respond to Hamas attacks, said a high-ranking source in Brussels.

There is no universal legal definition of what a ceasefire is. Furthermore, the details of these agreements (whether unilateral or bilateral) are developed later, in most cases through a mediator, to establish how they should be implemented, what territory they include and for how long they will be in force: days, hours...

Some member states, such as Spain and Ireland, have clearly called for a ceasefire. Others, such as France, Belgium and Sweden, demand that the EU call for a humanitarian pause that they consider more temporary and malleable. Germany, which was reluctant to any option that would demand from Israel anything that sounded like a cessation of attacks on Gaza, governed de facto by Hamas, is now in favor of asking for humanitarian windows.

Austria and the Czech Republic, whose leaders visited Israel on Wednesday, believe that asking Israel to make a pause when it is about to launch a ground incursion into Gaza to eradicate Hamas would damage its defensive objectives.

The EU has been in damage control mode after the contradictory messages issued by different EU institutions in recent weeks, and the deluge of criticism that followed the trip to Israel by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, whose position was viewed as leaning too far in favor of the government of Benjamin Netanyahu and oblivious to the suffering of the civilians of the Gaza Strip.

Israels war against Hamas has exposed historical divisions and the different perspectives of member states: some, like Germany or Austria, are more sympathetic to Israel because of their responsibility in the Holocaust; others, like Ireland, has a very critical position with the Israeli army from the beginning due to the siege of Gaza. Despite concerns in Brussels that the war will lead to a regional escalation and the potential effects on the security of the Union itself, the EU is also aware that its influence on the outcome of Israels war against Hamas is limited. For the Israeli leadership, the key actor is the United States.

The European Council expresses its most serious concern about the deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, says a draft of the conclusions of the EU summit, calling for rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid for those in need through all necessary measures, including a humanitarian pause. The text, which is still subject to change, has removed references to supporting the United Nations own call for a humanitarian pause. U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres has come under fire from Israel, which demands his resignation due to his address on Tuesday noting that Hamas attack did not happen in a vacuum but after 56 years of suffocating occupation.

Vittorio Infante, an expert on conflict and humanitarian issues at Oxfam, warns of the risks of changing the term ceasefire to something like pause. If the window of opportunity only offers a pause and is the only possibility on the table for aid to reach the Gaza Strip, we must go with it, but a pause gives the idea that it can be turned on and off, and that reduces security.
CAMBRIDGE, England--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Redgate announced today that 16 key sessions from the PASS Data Community Summit will be livestreamed on the Summit website to reach more data professionals across the globe. The end-to-end database DevOps provider already has a long-standing reputation for its commitment to the data community, and the move gives data professionals everywhere the opportunity to hear the latest announcements from Redgate, Microsoft, Intel, AWS and community experts.

The PASS Data Community Summit attracts thousands of attendees year after year. In just three weeks, the data community will come together for over 150 sessions covering everything from database DevOps to the cloud, AI and machine learning to PostgreSQL.

A handpicked selection of livestreamed sessions

16 sessions have been handpicked to be livestreamed, as they happen, because they represent topics of interest to the broader data community. Redgate, for example, will be giving a preview of the findings from the 2024 State of the Database Landscape report, as well as announcing a new product launch which will transform software delivery with Test Data Management.

Similarly, Microsoft will showcase the latest innovations across the Azure databases portfolio that will optimize performance and scale, reduce administrative burdens and help build new, AI-ready applications.

To complement the growing number of sessions focused on PostgreSQL at Summit this year, AWS will be providing a three-step guide to modernizing SQL Server workloads to PostgreSQL with minimal code changes.

Community experts, meanwhile, will be talking about issues including compliance auditing for SQL Server and Azure SQL Database, and a Women in Technology luncheon panel will discuss typical obstacles women encounter in the workplace and how to find allies to fight them.

The calendar of sessions to be livestreamed from Wednesday, November 15 to Friday, November 17 is now available on the Summit website livestream page.

The opportunity to learn more, connect more, achieve more

The livestreamed sessions are, of course, just a taster of what Summit attendees will experience in person, in Seattle, and tickets are still available for the in-person event. As well as being able to learn from industry experts and plan a conference schedule to level up specific skills, attendees also have the opportunity to meet and connect with like-minded data professionals in the SQL Server, Azure SQL and PostgreSQL community.

To discover the full catalogue of sessions from community experts and IT professionals representing leading companies in the data and database space including Microsoft, Intel, AWS and Redgate, as well as Google, Pure Storage, SolarWinds, Databricks, Datavail and Quest, visit the Summit website.

About Redgate Software

Redgate offers end-to-end database DevOps to help enterprises streamline software development and surface value from their data faster.

Redgates portfolio of solutions helps organizations reliably solve the complex challenges of database management across the DevOps lifecycle on any database, any platform, anywhere. We make life easier for IT leaders, development and operations teams, increasing efficiency, reducing errors and protecting business-critical data.

More than 200,000 companies globally, including 91% of the Fortune 100, trust Redgate to deliver ingeniously simple software.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026120572/en/

Meghana Shendrikar

Allison+Partners for Redgate Software

[email protected]

Source: Redgate
MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R), a leader in supply chain, dedicated transportation, and fleet management solutions, announces that Ryder Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Joe Ellis has been named a winner of the Top Global CISOs Awards for 2023, sponsored annually by Cyber Defense Magazine.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025736293/en/

Ryder Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Joe Ellis has been named a winner of the Top Global CISOs Awards for 2023, sponsored annually by Cyber Defense Magazine. (Photo: Business Wire)

To secure this top honor, Mr. Ellis competed against thousands of candidates. Judges search for the most innovative candidates, with success in communicating with their boards and senior level executives, and who aim to build powerful risk reduction programs for their organizations.

We are thrilled to see Joe achieve this top spot in the industry and be recognized as a leading cyber innovator and defender, says Ryder Chief Information Officer Rajeev Ravindran. Joe has driven significant results over the course of his 27 years in the IT industry, and his impressive leadership and experience have proven even more impactful at Ryder.

Chief information security officers help corporations avert disasters and work tirelessly to allow companies to grow and expand by managing and mitigating cybersecurity issues on a day-to-day basis.

Were pleased to honor Joe Ellis as a winner among the small, elite group of information security professionals of our Top Global CISOs Awards for 2023, celebrating with them at CyberDefenseCon 2023, says Gary Miliefsky, publisher of Cyber Defense Magazine.

As Ryders CISO since 2018, Mr. Ellis is responsible for the transportation and logistics companys information security program. Prior to joining Ryder, he was CISO at Subway Restaurants. With nearly three decades of IT leadership experience, he is also a CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional, Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE).

To view the full list of winners, visit: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-global-cisos-winners-for-2023/.

About Ryder System, Inc.

Ryder System, Inc. (NYSE: R) is a leading logistics and transportation company. It provides supply chain, dedicated transportation, and fleet management solutions, including warehousing and distribution, e-commerce fulfillment, last-mile delivery, managed transportation, professional drivers, freight brokerage, full-service leasing, maintenance, commercial truck rental, and used vehicle sales to some of the worlds most-recognized brands. Ryder provides services throughout the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In addition, Ryder manages nearly 260,000 commercial vehicles and operates approximately 300 warehouses encompassing more than 95 million square feet. Ryder is regularly recognized for its industry-leading practices in third-party logistics, technology-driven innovations, commercial vehicle maintenance, environmental stewardship, corporate social responsibility, world-class safety and security programs, military veteran recruitment initiatives, and the hiring of a diverse workforce. www.ryder.com

About Cyber Defense Awards

This is Cyber Defense Magazines 11th year of honoring cybersecurity innovators, in this case the Top Global CISOs for 2023, on our Cyber Defense Awards platform. In this competition, judges for these and other prestigious awards include cybersecurity industry veterans, trailblazers and market makers Gary Miliefsky of CDMG, Dr. Lindsey Polley de Lopez of VentureScope, Robert R. Ackerman Jr. of Allegis Cyber, Dino Boukouris of MomentumCyber and with much appreciation to emeritus judges Robert Herjavec of Cyderes, Dr. Peter Stephenson of CDMG, and David DeWalt of NightDragon.

About Cyber Defense Magazine

Cyber Defense Magazine was founded in 2012 by Gary S. Miliefsky, a globally recognized cyber security thought leader, inventor, and entrepreneur and continues to be the premier source of IT Security information. Managed and published by and for ethical, honest, passionate information security professionals. Our mission is to share cutting-edge knowledge, real-world stories and awards on the best ideas, products and services in the information technology industry. We deliver electronic magazines every month online for free, and limited special editions exclusively for the RSA, BlackHat, and Cyber Defense Conferences. Learn more at http://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com. Cyber Defense Magazine is a proud member of the Cyber Defense Media Group.

Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements and information included in this news release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Federal Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Accordingly, these forward-looking statements should be evaluated with consideration given to the many risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements including those risks set forth in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for management to predict all such risk factors or to assess the impact of such risks on our business. Accordingly, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

ryder-ar

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025736293/en/

Ryder Media Contacts:

Jonathan Mayor, [email protected]

Amy Federman, [email protected]

CDM Media Contact:

Irene Noser, [email protected], 833-844-9468

Source: Ryder System, Inc.
Presented by RSR Partners

GREENWICH, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- RSR Partners, a leading board and executive search firm, presented the inaugural Russell S. Reynolds, Jr. Chair of the Year Award to Sarah E. Nash, Chair of the board of Bath & Body Works. The award was presented to Sarah at the firms annual Directors Dinner in New York City on October 25, 2023.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026360795/en/

(Photo: Business Wire)

The Chair of the Year Award was established to celebrate the legacy of one of the search industrys greatest leaders and icons, Russ Reynolds, who has spent more than 50 years advising boards and CEOs on leadership. The award recognizes a Chair who successfully led a public company Board of Directors through significant business or governance challenges. The winner of this years award was chosen from more than 30 nominations by an independent selection committee comprised of renowned experts in their fields, including Mikaela Boyd, Nik Deogun, Ed Kangas, Kim Lew, Christie Smith, and Brett Stephens.

Sarah led the Bath & Body Works board through an incredible governance and business transformation, said Kim Lew, a member of the selection committee. Her accomplishments include leading the spin-off of Victorias Secret; collaborating with the nominating and governance committee on the recruitment of exceptional and highly diverse talent to the board of Bath & Body Works and the new board of Victorias Secret; navigating a successful CEO transition and selection process; and building a constructive path forward after an activist campaign. The leadership and integrity exhibited by Sarah is an example of how important board leadership is during times of turbulence. She is very worthy of this award.

This award recognizes Sarahs extraordinary leadership, dedication and service to Bath & Body Works over the past few years, said Steve Steinour, Chair of the Bath & Body Works Audit Committee. Sarah served as Bath & Body Works Interim CEO with very short notice, where she played a pivotal role in the companys transformation with its spin-off of Victorias Secret. During her tenure, Sarah has exemplified strong business acumen including leading a successful shareholder derivative settlement and navigating a complex supply chain reset with partners. She has exemplary people management skills such as overseeing multiple chief executive officer transitions, recruitment efforts for eight board members, and leading the company during the onset of COVID. We are grateful for her contributions and leadership since her assumption of the role of chair in May 2020.

Im incredibly proud of my fellow directors and the leadership team at Bath & Body Works, stated Sarah. They have shown irrefutable dedication to the vision we all share for this company. Their input and support throughout this past year was invaluable, and we have much to look forward to. I am also grateful to be recognized by an award that pays tribute to Russ, his legacy, and his impact on how board leadership is viewed and valued.

Sarahs terrific, commented Russ. She possesses the characteristics of a great leader. She is objective, open to advice, decisive, and a good communicator. She operates with integrity and puts the companys and others needs ahead of her own. I also started my career at JP Morgan, so I was particularly thrilled to see we share a fondness for finance and banking. I look forward to seeing how Sarah develops as a board leader and continuing to celebrate her achievements.

About Russell S. Reynolds, Jr.

Russell S. Reynolds, Jr. (Russ) is an American business executive, author, and founder of two of the search industry's most prominent firms. Considered one of the pioneers of the executive search and board recruiting profession, Russ has counseled the boards and CEOs of many of the world's leading companies over the past 50 years. In 1969, he founded Russell Reynolds Associates, which soon became one of the worlds foremost international executive recruiting firms. Russ sold his interest in the firm in 1993. In 1994, Russ founded the Directorship Group, later named RSR Partners, where he served as Founder and Chairman until 2022.

About Sarah E. Nash

Sarah E. Nash has served as Chair of the board of Bath & Body Works, Inc. since January 28, 2023. She served as Executive Chair of Bath & Body Works, Inc. from February 2022 to January 2023 and as the Interim Chief Executive Officer from May to November 2022. Prior to being appointed Executive Chair, she served as Chair of the board between May 2020 and February 2022 after having joined the board as an independent director in May 2019. Sarah is also Chief Executive Officer and owner of privately held Novagard Solutions, an innovator and manufacturer of silicone sealants and coatings and hybrid and foam solutions for the Building Systems, Electronics, EV and Battery and Industrial and Transportation markets.

Sarah spent nearly 30 years in investment banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co. (and predecessor companies), a financial services firm, retiring as Vice Chairman of Global Investment Banking in July 2005. She served on the board of directors of Knoll, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of lifestyle and workplace furnishing, textiles and fine leathers, from 2006 through its acquisition by Herman Miller, Inc. in 2021 and privately held Irving Oil Company through March 2022.

Sarah currently serves on the boards of directors of Blackbaud, Inc., a software company providing technology solutions for the not-for-profit industry, and privately held HBD Industries, Inc., a manufacturer and supplier of general purpose and application-engineered industrial products. Sarah is Trustee of the New York-Presbyterian Hospital, a member of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), Panama and the Chair of the International Advisory Board of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. She also served as a member of the National Board of the Smithsonian Institution through 2022. Sarah holds a BA in political science from Vassar College.

About the Chair of the Year Award

RSR Partners announced the establishment of the Russell S. Reynolds, Jr. Chair of the Year Award in October of 2022. The award will annually recognize the Chair of a public companys Board of Directors that has successfully led the board through significant business or governance challenges. The award celebrates the legacy of Russell S. Reynolds, Jr. (Russ), who has spent more than 50 years advising boards and CEOs on leadership and governance.

To be eligible for the award, a nominee must serve as a Chair of a board of directors at a U.S. public company with revenue or market cap greater than $1 billion. The nomination period takes place from August through September. The winner of the award will be chosen by an independent committee comprised of renowned experts in the areas of strategy, finance, strategic communications, shareholder activism defense, investment management, human capital consulting, and corporate governance. This years committee included:

Mikaela Boyd, Americas Strategy Practice Head of Bain & Company

Nik Deogun, CEO of the Americas of Brunswick Group

Ed Kangas, Former Global Chairman and CEO of Deloitte

Kim Lew, President and CEO of Columbia Investment Management Company

Christie Smith, Talent & Organization/Human Potential Global Lead of Accenture

Brett Stephens, CEO of RSR Partners

More information about the award can be found at: www.chairoftheyearaward.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026360795/en/

Lindsay Griesmeyer

+1 (203) 618-7076

[email protected]

Source: RSR Partners
Seclore Is Recognized For Its Unique Data-Centric Security Solutions in Cyber Defense Magazines 11th Annual InfoSec Awards During CyberDefenseCon 2023

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Today Seclore, the leading provider of data-centric security solutions, has been named the winner of the Hot Company award in the Data Security category from Cyber Defense Magazines (CDM) annual Cyber Defense Awards. CDM, the industrys leading electronic information security magazine, selected Seclore as a winner based on the companys radically different approach to cybersecurity. Seclore embeds granular protections and controls into the data itself, earning the trust of leading enterprises like American Express and Applied Materials that rely on Seclore to secure their digital assets and achieve compliance.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026119975/en/

Seclore named the winner of the Hot Company award in the Data Security category from Cyber Defense Magazines (CDM) annual Cyber Defense Awards (Graphic: Business Wire)

Were thrilled to be recognized alongside such an impressive group of innovative companies in the 11th year of Cyber Defense Awards, said Vishal Gupta, CEO and co-founder of Seclore. Data and IP are the lifeblood of enterprises, but too many cybersecurity solutions focus on securing everything but the data. We're committed to helping businesses control their most sensitive digital assets without sacrificing usability and easy collaboration. Being a hot company is a testament to the companys hard work, and were just getting started.

Seclore embodies three major features we judges look for with the potential to become winners: understanding tomorrows threats, today, providing a cost-effective solution and innovating in unexpected ways that can help mitigate cyber risk and get one step ahead of the next breach, said Gary S. Miliefsky, Publisher of Cyber Defense Magazine.

Founded in 2011, the Seclore platform consists of risk insights, data classification, enterprise digital rights management (EDRM), and email encryption, with a specialized expertise in the financial services, manufacturing, semiconductors, and pharmaceutical industries. To learn more about Seclore and the platforms robust set of capabilities, visit https://www.seclore.com/.

The full list of the Top InfoSec Innovators for 2023 is found here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-infosec-innovators-for-2023/.

About Seclore

Protecting the worlds sensitive data wherever it goes. Seclore protects and controls digital assets to help enterprises close their data security gap to prevent data theft and achieve compliance. Our data-centric approach to security ensures that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive digital assets, inside and outside of their organization. Enterprises can set automated policies and enable users to control and revoke who has access, what access they have, and for how long. Learn why leading enterprises like American Express and Applied Materials choose Seclore to protect and control their digital assets without sacrificing seamless collaboration and data sharing.

About Cyber Defense Awards

This is Cyber Defense Magazines 11th year of honoring cybersecurity innovators, in this case the Top Global CISOs for 2023, on our Cyber Defense Awards platform. In this competition, judges for these and other prestigious awards includes cybersecurity industry veterans, trailblazers and market makers Gary Miliefsky of CDMG, Dr. Lindsey Polley de Lopez of VentureScope, Robert R. Ackerman Jr. of AllegisCyber, Dino Boukouris of Momentum Cyber and with much appreciation to emeritus judges Robert Herjavec of Cyderes, Dr. Peter Stephenson of CDMG and David DeWalt of NightDragon. Top InfoSec Innovators for 2023 is found here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-infosec-innovators-for-2023/ and download The Black Unicorn Report for 2023: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/the-black-unicorn-report-for-2023/ and Top Global CISOs Winners for 2023, here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-global-cisos-winners-for-2023/.

About Cyber Defense Magazine

Cyber Defense Magazine was founded in 2012 by Gary S. Miliefsky, globally recognized cyber security thought leader, inventor and entrepreneur and continues to be the premier source of IT Security information. We are managed and published by and for ethical, honest, passionate information security professionals. Our mission is to share cutting-edge knowledge, real-world stories and awards on the best ideas, products and services in the information technology industry. We deliver electronic magazines every month online for free, and limited special editions exclusively for the RSA, BlackHat and Cyber Defense Conferences. Learn more about us at http://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com. Cyber Defense Magazine is a proud member of the Cyber Defense Media Group.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026119975/en/

Seclore Media Inquiries:

[email protected]

CDM Media Inquiries:

Contact: Irene Noser, Marketing Executive

Email: [email protected]

Toll Free (USA): 1-833-844-9468

International: 1-646-586-9545

Website: www.cyberdefensemagazine.com

Source: Seclore
Grocer encourages community to share in the milestone celebration by sending a birthday card

MONTGOMERY, Ala.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), parent company and home of Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, is celebrating its beloved Winn-Dixie associate and American Congressional Gold Medal recipient, Romay Davis, ahead of her 104th birthday. Today, the neighborhood grocer hosted a special in-store birthday celebration at Ms. Romays home Winn-Dixie store in Montgomery alongside her friends, family and local community.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026277735/en/

Today, Winn-Dixie hosted a special in-store celebration for its beloved associate Ms. Romay ahead of her 104th birthday on Sunday. (Photo: Business Wire)

In the spirit of spreading love and warm wishes, SEG is inviting those near and far to share in Ms. Romays milestone celebration by sending her a handmade or signed birthday card. Cards can be mailed to Southeastern Grocers at the following address:

Romay Davis c/o Southeastern Grocers

8928 Prominence Parkway, Building 200

Jacksonville, FL 32256

Raymond Rhee, Chief People Officer for Southeastern Grocers, said, We are deeply rooted in the communities we serve, and part of our story includes incredible associates like Ms. Romay. As we celebrate her 104th birthday, we hope to express our deepest gratitude for being a part of her extraordinary story. During her military service, Ms. Romay sorted mail to bolster crucial morale for troops. This year, we are proud to return the favor by sorting her birthday mail from those near and far.

Ms. Romays birthday festivities included a grand entrance featuring a performance from Parker Crossing High Schools band, remarks from SEG leadership, meet-and-greet with Alabama nonprofit community partners, a cake cutting ceremony and more.

Born on Oct. 29, 1919 in Virginia, Ms. Romay enlisted in the Army in 1943 as a Private First-Class member of the US Army 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed "Six Triple Eight. During a time when women and people of color faced discrimination, her battalion was a predominantly Black, all-female unit deployed overseas and cleared backlog in a mere three months by sorting an average of 195,000 pieces of mail per day. After her discharge from military service, Ms. Romay enjoyed many accomplishments including becoming a NYU multi-degree scholar, working in real estate and fashion, earning her taekwondo black belt, and more before rejoining the workforce as a Winn-Dixie associate in 2001.

A true pioneer of her time, Ms. Romay is also the namesake of SEGs Romay Davis Belonging, Inclusion and Diversity Grant. The grocer, together with its charitable arm, the SEG Gives Foundation, recently accepted applications from nonprofits throughout the Southeast for its fourth annual grant program, which supports organizations that work to address racial disparities in education, health care and food insecurity. Recipient nonprofit organizations for 2023 will be announced following Ms. Romays 104th birthday on Oct. 29.

Additionally, Ms. Romay was recently awarded the first Lifetime Achievement Award at the 10th annual Women Who Shape the State event in March. In 2022, she was honored by The National WWII Museum in New Orleans at its American Spirit Awards with a Silver Service Medallion, a recognition reserved for those who have served our country with distinction.

About Southeastern Grocers

Southeastern Grocers Inc. (SEG), parent company and home of Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie grocery stores, is an omnichannel retailer and one of the largest conventional supermarket companies in the U.S., serving customers in brick-and-mortar grocery stores, liquor stores and in-store pharmacies as well as online with convenient grocery delivery and curbside pickup throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana and Mississippi. Fresco y Mas, Harveys Supermarket and Winn-Dixie are well-known and well-respected regional brands with deep heritages, strong neighborhood ties, proud histories of giving back, talented and caring associates and a strong commitment to providing the best possible quality and value to customers. For more information, visit www.frescoymas.com, www.harveyssupermarkets.com and www.winndixie.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026277735/en/

For SEG interviews or images contact:

Meredith Hurley

Senior Director, Communications and Community

(904) 370-6029

[email protected]

Source: Southeastern Grocers Inc.
Subsea inbound orders of $1.8 billion in the quarter; Subsea backlog of $12.1 billion

Cash flow from operations of $222 million; free cash flow of $178 million

Operating results for both segments now expected above midpoint of full-year guidance

Subsea inbound over the next five quarters to approach $11 billion

NEWCASTLE & HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- TechnipFMC plc (NYSE: FTI) (the Company or TechnipFMC) today reported third quarter 2023 results.

Summary Financial Results from Continuing Operations Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures are provided in financial schedules. Three Months Ended Change (In millions, except per share amounts) Sep. 30, 2023 Jun. 30, 2023 Sep. 30, 2022 Sequential Year-over-Year Revenue $2,056.9 $1,972.2 $1,733.0 4.3% 18.7% Income (loss) $90.0 $(87.2) $5.0 n/m 1,700.0% Income (loss) margin 4.4% (4.4%) 0.3% n/m 410 bps Diluted earnings (loss) per share $0.20 $(0.20) $0.01 n/m 1,900.0% Adjusted EBITDA $237.5 $205.9 $185.6 15.3% 28.0% Adjusted EBITDA margin 11.5% 10.4% 10.7% 110 bps 80 bps Adjusted income $93.7 $44.0 $12.7 113.0% 637.8% Adjusted diluted earnings per share $0.21 $0.10 $0.03 110.0% 600.0% Inbound orders $2,145.1 $4,447.3 $1,850.0 (51.8%) 16.0% Backlog $13,230.7 $13,278.6 $8,841.0 (0.4%) 49.7% n/m - not meaningful

Total Company revenue in the third quarter was $2,056.9 million. Income from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC was $90 million. These results included after-tax charges and credits totaling $3.7 million of expense, or $0.01 per share (Exhibit 6).

Adjusted income from continuing operations was $93.7 million, or $0.21 per diluted share (Exhibit 6).

Adjusted EBITDA, which excludes pre-tax charges and credits, was $237.5 million; adjusted EBITDA margin was 11.5 percent (Exhibit 8).

Included in total Company results was a foreign exchange loss of $46.4 million, or $39.1 million after-tax. When excluding the after-tax impact of foreign exchange of $39.1 million, income from continuing operations was $129.1 million. Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, was $283.9 million (Exhibit 8).

Doug Pferdehirt, Chair and CEO of TechnipFMC, stated, Subsea inbound orders in the quarter came in strong at $1.8 billion. Adjusted EBITDA improved sequentially for both Subsea and Surface Technologies, exceeding the guidance we provided on our second quarter call. This momentum is also driving our full-year expectations higher.

Pferdehirt continued, In Subsea, we received significant orders for flexible pipe in the period, including an award from Petrobras for the pre-salt fields in Brazil, and our largest-ever flexibles contract in the Gulf of Mexico for Woodside Energys Trion project. As both pioneer and market leader of flexible pipe, we have the unique ability to integrate this technology into our iEPCI offering, which greatly simplifies the field architecture. This enables a further reduction in project cycle time, improving economics and driving greater differentiation in our integrated offering.

Beyond the flexibles activity, we also experienced an exceptionally high level of unannounced project awards in the quarter, which speaks to the ongoing strength of the market. In Subsea Services, inbound was robust, driven by installation and life of field activities. Given the continued strength in our inbound, we are confident that Subsea orders will exceed $9 billion for the full year. And if we extend the view to include our current expectations for 2024, we now believe orders over the next five quarters will approach $11 billion.

Pferdehirt added, The durability of this cycle is driven by an expansion in the number of active basins and the number of operators participating in those regions. Additionally, activity is supported by a robust and strengthening FEED pipeline. This provides us with extended visibility and confidence that subsea opportunities will remain resilient beyond 2025, even before we consider new frontiers that are likely to present themselves in the second half of the decade.

Pferdehirt concluded, Our commercial and operational success continues to drive improved financial results. The upward revisions to our Subsea order outlook are fueled by high quality inbound, driven by iEPCI, Subsea Services and other direct awards, which we now expect to represent more than 70 percent of segment orders in the current year. More importantly, these results are further strengthening the foundation for higher and more sustainable performance in the years ahead.

Operational and Financial Highlights

Subsea

Financial Highlights Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures are provided in financial schedules. Three Months Ended Change (In millions) Sep. 30, 2023 Jun. 30, 2023 Sep. 30, 2022 Sequential Year-over-Year Revenue $1,708.3 $1,618.4 $1,415.0 5.6% 20.7% Operating profit $177.7 $153.4 $105.0 15.8% 69.2% Operating profit margin 10.4% 9.5% 7.4% 90 bps 300 bps Adjusted EBITDA $257.8 $233.8 $183.8 10.3% 40.3% Adjusted EBITDA margin 15.1% 14.4% 13.0% 70 bps 210 bps Inbound orders $1,828.0 $4,114.5 $1,400.8 (55.6%) 30.5% Backlog1,2,3 $12,073.6 $12,088.5 $7,603.2 (0.1%) 58.8%

Estimated Consolidated Backlog Scheduling (In millions) Sep. 30, 2023 2023 (3 months) $1,146 2024 $4,475 2025 and beyond $6,453 Total $12,074 1 Backlog as of September 30, 2023 was decreased by a foreign exchange impact of $154 million. 2 Backlog does not capture all revenue potential for Subsea Services. 3 Backlog as of September 30, 2023 does not include total Company non-consolidated backlog of $322 million.

Subsea reported third quarter revenue of $1,708.3 million, an increase of 5.6 percent from the second quarter. The sequential improvement was driven by mid-single-digit revenue growth in both projects and services. The change in revenue was primarily driven by an increase in Norway and Brazil, partially offset by a decrease in West Africa.

Subsea reported an operating profit of $177.7 million, an increase of 15.8 percent from the second quarter. Sequential operating profit increased primarily due to higher volume and favorable activity mix.

Subsea reported adjusted EBITDA of $257.8 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased by 10.3 percent when compared to the second quarter. The factors impacting operating profit also drove the sequential increase in adjusted EBITDA. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased 70 basis points to 15.1 percent.

Subsea inbound orders were $1.8 billion for the quarter. Book-to-bill was 1.1x. The following awards were announced and included in the period:

TotalEnergies Girassol Life Extension Project (Angola)

Significant* contract awarded by TotalEnergies EP Angola and its Block 17 Partners to install flexible pipe and associated subsea structures for the Girassol Life Extension project (GIR LIFEX). The Company was previously awarded the engineering, procurement, and supply of subsea flowlines and connectors for GIR LIFEX last year.

*A significant contract is between $75 million and $250 million.

Petrobras Flexible Pipe (Brazil)

Significant* contract to supply flexible pipe to Petrobras for the pre-salt fields offshore Brazil. The Company will design, engineer, and manufacture 14 kilometers of gas injection riser pipe. TechnipFMC will also supply associated services including packing and storage.

*A significant contract is between $75 million and $250 million.

Woodside Energy Trion Project (Mexico)

Contract awarded by Woodside Energy to manufacture flexible pipe. The Company will supply infield flowlines and jumpers for the Trion project in deepwater Mexico.

The following awards were announced in the period and were included in prior quarter results:

Equinor Rosebank Development (United Kingdom)

Large* integrated Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation (iEPCI) contract awarded by Equinor for its Rosebank project, west of the Shetland Isles in the United Kingdom. The contract covers the manufacture and installation of subsea production systems, flexible and rigid pipe, and umbilicals, as well as connection to the host facility. The project will use pre-qualified equipment, which will accelerate the delivery schedule. Umbilicals, rigid pipe, and the majority of the subsea production systems will be designed, engineered and manufactured in-country using TechnipFMCs facilities and network of trusted local suppliers, then installed by TechnipFMC. Together, these activities will contribute significantly to value and job creation across the United Kingdom, which was an important factor in Equinors selection of the Company for this award. TechnipFMC has committed approximately $500 million of the total award to local value creation.

*A large contract is between $500 million and $1 billion. This award was included in inbound orders in the first quarter of 2023.

Azule Energy Ndungu Project (Angola)

Significant* contract awarded by Azule Energy to supply flexible pipe for its Ndungu project, offshore Angola. The Ndungu project will tie into Block 15/06 West Hub, where TechnipFMC was recently awarded a substantial flexible pipe contract. Through this extension, the Company was able to provide an optimized solution that enables Azule to maintain schedule and achieve efficiencies.

*A significant contract is between $75 million and $250 million. This award was included in inbound orders in the second quarter of 2023.

Surface Technologies

Financial Highlights Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures are provided in financial schedules. Three Months Ended Change (In millions) Sep. 30, 2023 Jun. 30, 2023 Sep. 30, 2022 Sequential Year-over-Year Revenue $348.6 $353.8 $318.0 (1.5%) 9.6% Operating profit $33.3 $25.7 $19.0 29.6% 75.3% Operating profit margin 9.6% 7.3% 6.0% 230 bps 360 bps Adjusted EBITDA $49.9 $46.9 $40.8 6.4% 22.3% Adjusted EBITDA margin 14.3% 13.3% 12.8% 100 bps 150 bps Inbound orders $317.1 $332.8 $449.2 (4.7%) (29.4%) Backlog $1,157.1 $1,190.1 $1,237.8 (2.8%) (6.5%)

Surface Technologies reported third quarter revenue of $348.6 million, a decrease of 1.5 percent from the second quarter. The modest decline was primarily driven by lower activity in North America, where revenue decreased 8 percent sequentially. The decline in North America was partially offset by higher international revenue, which increased 4 percent.

Surface Technologies reported operating profit of $33.3 million, an increase of 29.6 percent versus the second quarter, primarily driven by higher international profitability. International benefited from improved operational performance, particularly in the Middle East. North America operating profit was largely unchanged versus the prior quarter. Segment operating profit in the period also benefited from $4 million of lower restructuring and other charges.

Surface Technologies reported adjusted EBITDA of $49.9 million. Adjusted EBITDA increased 6.4 percent when compared to the second quarter. Adjusted EBITDA increased largely due to the improved operational performance in the Middle East. North America adjusted EBITDA was largely unchanged versus the prior quarter. Adjusted EBITDA margin increased 100 basis points to 14.3 percent.

Inbound orders for the quarter were $317.1 million, a sequential decrease of 4.7 percent. Backlog ended the period at $1,157.1 million.

Corporate and Other Items (three months ended September 30, 2023)

Corporate expense was $24.7 million. Excluding charges of $0.4 million, corporate expense was $24.3 million.

Foreign exchange loss was $46.4 million.

Net interest expense was $26.7 million.

The provision for income taxes was $19.5 million.

Total depreciation and amortization was $93.3 million.

Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations was $221.9 million. Capital expenditures were $43.6 million. Free cash flow from continuing operations was $178.3 million (Exhibit 11).

In August, the Company completed the sale of the Apache II pipelay vessel for net cash proceeds of $54.4 million.

The Company ended the period with cash and cash equivalents of $690.9 million; net debt declined $194.1 million to $649.9 million (Exhibit 10).

During the quarter, the Company repurchased 2.7 million of its ordinary shares for total consideration of $50.1 million. When including the dividend payment of $21.8 million, total shareholder distributions in the quarter were $71.9 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Companys total shareholder distributions were $171.9 million.

2023 Full-Year Financial Guidance1

The Companys full-year guidance for 2023 can be found in the table below. No updates were made to the previous guidance that was issued on February 23, 2023.

2023 Guidance (As of February 23, 2023) Subsea Surface Technologies Revenue in a range of $5.9 - 6.3 billion Revenue in a range of $1.3 - 1.45 billion Adjusted EBITDA margin in a range of 12.5 - 13.5% Adjusted EBITDA margin in a range of 12 - 14% TechnipFMC Corporate expense, net $100 - 110 million (includes depreciation and amortization of ~$5 million; excludes charges and credits) Net interest expense $100 - 110 million Tax provision, as reported $155 - 165 million Capital expenditures approximately $250 million Free cash flow2 $225 - 375 million

_______________________________ 1Our guidance measures of adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin, free cash flow, and adjusted corporate expense, net are non-GAAP financial measures. We are unable to provide a reconciliation to comparable GAAP financial measures on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable effort because of the unpredictability of the individual components of the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure and the variability of items excluded from each such measure. Such information may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable, impact on our future financial results. 2 Free cash flow is calculated as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures.

Teleconference

The Company will host a teleconference on Thursday, October 26, 2023 to discuss the third quarter 2023 financial results. The call will begin at 1:30 p.m. London time (8:30 a.m. New York time). Webcast access and an accompanying presentation can be found at www.TechnipFMC.com.

An archived audio replay will be available after the event at the same website address. In the event of a disruption of service or technical difficulty during the call, information will be posted on our website.

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 21,000 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.

This communication 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. Forward-looking statements usually relate to future events, market growth and recovery, earnings, cash flows, or other aspects of our operations or operating results. Forward-looking statements are often identified by words such as commit, guidance, confident, believe, expect, anticipate, plan, intend, foresee, should, would, could, may, will, likely, predicated, estimate, outlook and similar expressions, including the negative thereof. The absence of these words, however, does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, beliefs, and assumptions concerning future developments and business conditions and their potential effect on us. While management believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made, there can be no assurance that future developments affecting us will be those that we anticipate. All of our forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties (some of which are significant or beyond our control) and assumptions that could cause future results to differ materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or projections, including unpredictable trends in the demand for and price of crude oil and natural gas; competition and unanticipated changes relating to competitive factors in our industry, including ongoing industry consolidation; the COVID-19 pandemic and any resurgence thereof; our inability to develop, implement and protect new technologies and services and intellectual property related thereto, including new technologies and services for our New Energy business; the cumulative loss of major contracts, customers or alliances and unfavorable credit and commercial terms of certain contracts; disruptions in the political, regulatory, economic and social conditions of the countries in which we conduct business including the impact of the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas wars; the refusal of DTC to act as depository agency for our shares; the impact of our existing and future indebtedness and the restrictions on our operations by terms of the agreements governing our existing indebtedness; the risks caused by our acquisition and divestiture activities; additional costs or risks from increasing scrutiny and expectations regarding ESG matters; uncertainties related to our investments in New Energy business; the risks caused by fixed-price contracts; our failure to timely deliver our backlog; our reliance on subcontractors, suppliers and our joint venture partners; a failure or breach of our IT infrastructure or that of our subcontractors, suppliers or joint venture partners, including as a result of cyber-attacks; risks of pirates endangering our maritime employees and assets; any delays and cost overruns of new capital asset construction projects for vessels and manufacturing facilities; potential liabilities inherent in the industries in which we operate or have operated; our failure to comply with existing and future laws and regulations, including those related to environmental protection, climate change, health and safety, labor and employment, import/export controls, currency exchange, bribery and corruption, taxation, privacy, data protection and data security; the additional restrictions on dividend payouts or share repurchases as an English public limited company; uninsured claims and litigation against us; tax laws, treaties and regulations and any unfavorable findings by relevant tax authorities; potential departure of our key managers and employees; adverse seasonal and weather conditions and unfavorable currency exchange rates; risk in connection with our defined benefit pension plan commitments; and our inability to obtain sufficient bonding capacity for certain contracts, and other risks as discussed in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and our other reports subsequently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

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.

Exhibit 1 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (In millions, except per share data) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, 2023 2023 2022 2023 2022 Revenue $ 2,056.9 $ 1,972.2 $ 1,733.0 $ 5,746.5 $ 5,006.0 Costs and expenses 1,896.1 1,813.7 1,652.2 5,376.2 4,837.8 160.8 158.5 80.8 370.3 168.2 Other income (expense), net (20.9 ) (181.2 ) 3.5 (189.2 ) 57.0 Loss from investment in Technip Energies     (27.7 ) Income (loss) before net interest expense and income taxes 139.9 (22.7 ) 84.3 181.1 197.5 Net interest expense (26.7 ) (30.3 ) (30.9 ) (75.7 ) (92.5 ) Loss on early extinguishment of debt     (29.8 ) Income (loss) before income taxes 113.2 (53.0 ) 53.4 105.4 75.2 Provision for income taxes 19.5 43.3 42.7 100.2 91.0 Income (loss) from continuing operations 93.7 (96.3 ) 10.7 5.2 (15.8 ) (Income) loss from continuing operations attributable to non-controlling interests (3.7 ) 9.1 (5.7 ) (2.0 ) (19.4 ) Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc 90.0 (87.2 ) 5.0 3.2 (35.2 ) Loss from discontinued operations   (15.3 )  (34.7 ) Net income (loss) attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 90.0 $ (87.2 ) $ (10.3 ) $ 3.2 $ (69.9 ) Earnings (loss) per share from continuing operations Basic $ 0.21 $ (0.20 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.01 $ (0.08 ) Diluted $ 0.20 $ (0.20 ) $ 0.01 $ 0.01 $ (0.08 ) Earnings (loss) per share from discontinued operations Basic and diluted $ 0.00 $ 0.00 $ (0.03 ) $ 0.00 $ (0.08 ) Earnings (loss) per share attributable to TechnipFMC plc Basic $ 0.21 $ (0.20 ) $ (0.02 ) $ 0.01 $ (0.16 ) Diluted $ 0.20 $ (0.20 ) $ (0.02 ) $ 0.01 $ (0.16 ) Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 436.9 440.1 450.1 439.7 451.1 Diluted 450.3 440.1 458.1 452.9 451.1 Cash dividends declared per share $ 0.05 $  $  $ 0.05 $ 

Exhibit 2 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES BUSINESS SEGMENT DATA (In millions) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, 2023 2023 2022 2023 2022 Segment revenue Subsea $ 1,708.3 $ 1,618.4 $ 1,415.0 $ 4,714.3 $ 4,118.7 Surface Technologies 348.6 353.8 318.0 1,032.2 887.3 Total segment revenue $ 2,056.9 $ 1,972.2 $ 1,733.0 $ 5,746.5 $ 5,006.0 Segment operating profit Subsea $ 177.7 $ 153.4 $ 105.0 $ 397.9 $ 256.1 Surface Technologies 33.3 25.7 19.0 81.4 32.7 Total segment operating profit 211.0 179.1 124.0 479.3 288.8 Corporate items Corporate expense(1) $ (24.7 ) $ (153.5 ) $ (25.2 ) $ (205.6 ) $ (76.7 ) Net interest expense and loss on early extinguishment of debt (26.7 ) (30.3 ) (30.9 ) (75.7 ) (122.3 ) Loss from investment in Technip Energies     (27.7 ) Foreign exchange gains (losses) (46.4 ) (48.3 ) (14.5 ) (92.6 ) 13.1 Total corporate items (97.8 ) (232.1 ) (70.6 ) (373.9 ) (213.6 ) Income (loss) before income taxes(2) $ 113.2 $ (53.0 ) $ 53.4 $ 105.4 $ 75.2

(1) Corporate expense primarily includes the non-recurring legal settlement charge, corporate staff expenses, share-based compensation expenses, and other employee benefits. (2) Includes amounts attributable to non-controlling interests.

Exhibit 3 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES BUSINESS SEGMENT DATA (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended Inbound Orders (1) September 30, June 30, September 30, September 30, 2023 2023 2022 2023 2022 Subsea $ 1,828.0 $ 4,114.5 $ 1,400.8 $ 8,479.0 $ 5,222.4 Surface Technologies 317.1 332.8 449.2 972.3 1,014.2 Total inbound orders $ 2,145.1 $ 4,447.3 $ 1,850.0 $ 9,451.3 $ 6,236.6

Order Backlog (2) September 30, 2023 June 30, 2023 September 30, 2022 Subsea $ 12,073.6 $ 12,088.5 $ 7,603.2 Surface Technologies 1,157.1 1,190.1 1,237.8 Total order backlog $ 13,230.7 $ 13,278.6 $ 8,841.0

(1) Inbound orders represent the estimated sales value of confirmed customer orders received during the reporting period. (2) Order backlog is calculated as the estimated sales value of unfilled, confirmed customer orders at the reporting date.

Exhibit 4 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In millions) (Unaudited) September 30,

2023 December 31,

2022 Cash and cash equivalents $ 690.9 $ 1,057.1 Trade receivables, net 1,324.4 966.5 Contract assets, net 1,204.6 981.6 Inventories, net 1,158.5 1,039.7 Other current assets 916.9 943.8 Total current assets 5,295.3 4,988.7 Property, plant and equipment, net 2,240.0 2,354.9 Intangible assets, net 650.1 716.0 Other assets 1,338.9 1,384.7 Total assets $ 9,524.3 $ 9,444.3 Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt $ 407.3 $ 367.3 Accounts payable, trade 1,537.7 1,282.8 Contract liabilities 1,237.9 1,156.4 Other current liabilities 1,273.3 1,367.8 Total current liabilities 4,456.2 4,174.3 Long-term debt, less current portion 933.5 999.3 Other liabilities 1,024.6 994.0 TechnipFMC plc stockholders equity 3,068.2 3,240.2 Non-controlling interests 41.8 36.5 Total liabilities and equity $ 9,524.3 $ 9,444.3

Exhibit 5 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In millions, unaudited) (In millions) Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 2023 2022 Cash provided (required) by operating activities Net income (loss) $ 93.7 $ 5.2 $ (50.5 ) Net loss from discontinued operations   34.7 Adjustments to reconcile income (loss) from continuing operations to cash provided (required) by operating activities Depreciation and amortization 93.3 283.3 284.4 Loss from investment in Technip Energies   27.7 Income from equity affiliates, net of dividends received (20.5 ) (35.9 ) (23.1 ) Loss on early extinguishment of debt   29.8 Other non-cash items, net 20.2 32.1 79.9 Working capital(1) 40.1 (246.7 ) (623.0 ) Other non-current assets and liabilities, net (4.9 ) (46.1 ) 25.8 Cash provided (required) by operating activities 221.9 (8.1 ) (214.3 ) Cash provided (required) by investing activities Capital expenditures (43.6 ) (153.7 ) (94.3 ) Proceeds from sales of assets 54.4 75.3 13.4 Proceeds from sale of investment in Technip Energies   288.5 Other investing activities 5.1 14.9 5.7 Cash provided (required) by investing activities 15.9 (63.5 ) 213.3 Cash required by financing activities Net decrease in short-term debt (12.1 ) (38.2 ) (204.7 ) Cash settlement for derivative hedging debt  (30.1 ) (64.4 ) Net change in revolving credit facility (50.0 )  150.0 Repayments of long-term debt   (451.7 ) Dividends paid (21.8 ) (21.8 )  Share repurchases (50.1 ) (150.1 ) (50.1 ) Other financing activities (0.9 ) (36.5 ) (5.9 ) Cash required by financing activities (134.9 ) (276.7 ) (626.8 ) Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents 2.8 (17.9 ) 11.9 Change in cash and cash equivalents 105.7 (366.2 ) (615.9 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 585.2 1,057.1 1,327.4 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 690.9 $ 690.9 $ 711.5

(1) Working capital includes receivables, payables, inventories and other current assets and liabilities.

Exhibit 6 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited)

In addition to financial results determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the third quarter 2023 Earnings Release also includes non-GAAP financial measures (as defined in Item 10 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) and describes performance on a year-over-year or sequential basis. Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, excluding charges and credits, as well as measures derived from it (including Diluted EPS, excluding charges and credits; Income before net interest expense and taxes, excluding charges and credits (Adjusted Operating profit); Depreciation and amortization, excluding charges and credits; Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, excluding charges and credits (Adjusted EBITDA); and Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange gains or losses, net; Adjusted EBITDA margin; Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net; Corporate expense, excluding charges and credits; Foreign exchange, net and other, excluding charges and credits; and net debt) are non-GAAP financial measures.

Non-GAAP adjustments are presented on a gross basis and are not net of tax. Estimates of the tax effect of each adjustment is calculated item by item, applying the relevant jurisdiction tax rate to the pretax amount, unless the nature of the item and/or the tax jurisdiction in which the item has been recorded requires application of a specific tax rate, tax treatment or valuation allowance consideration, in which case the tax effect of such item is estimated accordingly.

Management believes that the exclusion of charges, credits and foreign exchange impacts from these financial measures provides a useful perspective on the Companys underlying business results and operating trends, and a means to evaluate TechnipFMC's operations and consolidated results of operations period-over-period. These measures are also used by management as performance measures in determining certain incentive compensation. The foregoing non-GAAP financial measures should be considered by investors in addition to, not as a substitute for or superior to, other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following is a reconciliation of the most comparable financial measures under GAAP to the non-GAAP financial measures.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 Income from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc Income attributable to non-controlling interests from continuing operations Provision for income taxes Net interest expense Income before net interest expense and income taxes (Operating profit) Depreciation and amortization Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 90.0 $ 3.7 $ 19.5 $ 26.7 $ 139.9 $ 93.3 $ 233.2 Charges and (credits): Impairment 2.0    2.0  2.0 Restructuring and other charges 1.7  0.6  2.3  2.3 Adjusted financial measures $ 93.7 $ 3.7 $ 20.1 $ 26.7 $ 144.2 $ 93.3 $ 237.5 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 0.20 Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 0.21

Exhibit 6 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc Loss attributable to non-controlling interests from continuing operations Provision for income taxes Net interest expense Income (loss) before net interest expense and income taxes (Operating profit) Depreciation and amortization Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ (87.2 ) $ (9.1 ) $ 43.3 $ 30.3 $ (22.7 ) $ 97.0 $ 74.3 Charges and (credits): Restructuring and other charges 4.7  0.4  5.1  5.1 Non-recurring legal settlement charges * 126.5    126.5  126.5 Adjusted financial measures $ 44.0 $ (9.1 ) $ 43.7 $ 30.3 $ 108.9 $ 97.0 $ 205.9 Diluted loss per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ (0.20 ) Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 0.10 *The non-recurring legal settlement charges reflect the impact of the resolution of all outstanding matters with the PNF (reference to Note 13 of the 10-Q). For taxation purposes the charges are treated as a penalty and as such, do not trigger tax charges or benefits.

Three Months Ended September 30, 2022 Income from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc Income attributable to non-controlling interests from continuing operations Provision for income taxes Net interest expense and loss on early extinguishment of debt Income before net interest expense and income taxes (Operating profit) Depreciation and amortization Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 5.0 $ 5.7 $ 42.7 $ 30.9 $ 84.3 $ 94.5 $ 178.8 Charges and (credits): Impairment 3.6    3.6  3.6 Restructuring and other charges 4.1  (0.9 )  3.2  3.2 Adjusted financial measures $ 12.7 $ 5.7 $ 41.8 $ 30.9 $ 91.1 $ 94.5 $ 185.6 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 0.01 Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 0.03

Exhibit 7 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited)

In addition to financial results determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the third quarter 2023 Earnings Release also includes non-GAAP financial measures (as defined in Item 10 of Regulation S-K of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) and describes performance on a year-over-year or sequential basis. Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, excluding charges and credits, as well as measures derived from it (including diluted income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, excluding charges and credits); Income before net interest expense and taxes, excluding charges and credits (Adjusted Operating profit); Depreciation and amortization, excluding charges and credits; Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, excluding charges and credits (Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net); Adjusted EBITDA margin; Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net; Corporate expense, excluding charges and credits; Foreign exchange, net and other, excluding charges and credits; and net debt, or cash are non-GAAP financial measures.

Non-GAAP adjustments are presented on a gross basis and are not net of tax. Estimates of the tax effect of each adjustment is calculated item by item, applying the relevant jurisdiction tax rate to the pretax amount, unless the nature of the item and/or the tax jurisdiction in which the item has been recorded requires application of a specific tax rate, tax treatment or valuation allowance consideration, in which case the tax effect of such item is estimated accordingly.

Management believes that the exclusion of charges, credits and foreign exchange impacts from these financial measures provides a useful perspective on the Companys underlying business results and operating trends, and a means to evaluate TechnipFMC's operations and consolidated results of operations period-over-period. These measures are also used by management as performance measures in determining certain incentive compensation. The foregoing non-GAAP financial measures should be considered by investors in addition to, not as a substitute for or superior to, other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The following is a reconciliation of the most comparable financial measures under GAAP to the non-GAAP financial measures.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 Income from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc Income attributable to non-controlling interests from continuing operations Provision for income taxes Net interest expense Income before net interest expense and income taxes (Operating profit) Depreciation and amortization Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 3.2 $ 2.0 $ 100.2 $ 75.7 $ 181.1 $ 283.3 $ 464.4 Charges and (credits): Impairment 2.0    2.0  2.0 Restructuring and other charges 7.0  1.0  8.0  8.0 Non-recurring legal settlement charges * 126.5   126.5  126.5 Adjusted financial measures $ 138.7 $ 2.0 $ 101.2 $ 75.7 $ 317.6 $ 283.3 $ 600.9 Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ 0.01 Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 0.31 *The non-recurring legal settlement charges reflect the impact of the resolution of all outstanding matters with the PNF (reference to Note 13 of the 10-Q). For taxation purposes the charges are treated as a penalty and as such, do not trigger tax charges or benefits.

Exhibit 7 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2022 Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc Income attributable to non-controlling interests from continuing operations Provision for income taxes Net interest expense and loss on early extinguishment of debt Income before net interest expense and income taxes (Operating profit) Depreciation and amortization Earnings before net interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ (35.2 ) $ 19.4 $ 91.0 $ 122.3 $ 197.5 $ 284.4 $ 481.9 Charges and (credits): Impairment 4.7    4.7  4.7 Restructuring and other charges 10.9  0.4  11.3  11.3 Loss from Investment in Technip Energies ** 27.7    27.7  27.7 Adjusted financial measures $ 8.1 $ 19.4 $ 91.4 $ 122.3 $ 241.2 $ 284.4 $ 525.6 Diluted loss per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc, as reported $ (0.08 ) Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing operations attributable to TechnipFMC plc $ 0.02 **The charges reflect the net mark-to-market valuation, on the Companys investment in Technip Energies and the gains and losses resulting from sale transactions of the investment. Gains and losses of the sales were recorded in a UK entity and treated as tax exempt with zero tax effect.

Exhibit 8 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 Subsea Surface Technologies Corporate Expense Foreign Exchange, net Total Revenue $ 1,708.3 $ 348.6 $  $  $ 2,056.9 Operating profit (loss), as reported (pre-tax) $ 177.7 $ 33.3 $ (24.7 ) $ (46.4 ) $ 139.9 Charges and (credits): Impairment 1.6  0.4  2.0 Restructuring and other charges 1.7 0.6   2.3 Subtotal 3.3 0.6 0.4  4.3 Adjusted Operating profit (loss) 181.0 33.9 (24.3 ) (46.4 ) 144.2 Depreciation and amortization 76.8 16.0 0.5  93.3 Adjusted EBITDA $ 257.8 $ 49.9 $ (23.8 ) $ (46.4 ) $ 237.5 Foreign exchange, net 0.0 0.0 0.0 46.4 46.4 Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net $ 257.8 $ 49.9 $ (23.8 ) $  $ 283.9 Operating profit margin, as reported 10.4 % 9.6 % 6.8 % Adjusted Operating profit margin 10.6 % 9.7 % 7.0 % Adjusted EBITDA margin 15.1 % 14.3 % 11.5 % Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net 15.1 % 14.3 % 13.8 %

Exhibit 8 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended June 30, 2023 Subsea Surface Technologies Corporate Expense Foreign Exchange, net Total Revenue $ 1,618.4 $ 353.8 $  $  $ 1,972.2 Operating profit (loss), as reported (pre-tax) $ 153.4 $ 25.7 $ (153.5 ) $ (48.3 ) $ (22.7 ) Charges and (credits): Restructuring and other charges 0.5 4.6   5.1 Non recurring legal settlement charges   126.5  126.5 Subtotal 0.5 4.6 126.5  131.6 Adjusted Operating profit (loss) 153.9 30.3 (27.0 ) (48.3 ) 108.9 Depreciation and amortization 79.9 16.6 0.5  97.0 Adjusted EBITDA $ 233.8 $ 46.9 $ (26.5 ) $ (48.3 ) $ 205.9 Foreign exchange, net    48.3 48.3 Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net $ 233.8 $ 46.9 $ (26.5 ) $  $ 254.2 Operating profit margin, as reported 9.5 % 7.3 % -1.2 % Adjusted Operating profit margin 9.5 % 8.6 % 5.5 % Adjusted EBITDA margin 14.4 % 13.3 % 10.4 % Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net 14.4 % 13.3 % 12.9 %

Exhibit 8 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended September 30, 2022 Subsea Surface Technologies Corporate Expense Foreign Exchange, net Total Revenue $ 1,415.0 $ 318.0 $  $  $ 1,733.0 Operating profit (loss), as reported (pre-tax) $ 105.0 $ 19.0 $ (25.2 ) $ (14.5 ) $ 84.3 Charges and (credits): Impairment 1.9 1.7   3.6 Restructuring and other charges 1.4 1.8   3.2 Subtotal 3.3 3.5   6.8 Adjusted Operating profit (loss) 108.3 22.5 (25.2 ) (14.5 ) 91.1 Depreciation and amortization 75.5 18.3 0.7  94.5 Adjusted EBITDA $ 183.8 $ 40.8 $ (24.5 ) $ (14.5 ) $ 185.6 Foreign exchange, net    14.5 14.5 Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net $ 183.8 $ 40.8 $ (24.5 ) $  $ 200.1 Operating profit margin, as reported 7.4 % 6.0 % 4.9 % Adjusted Operating profit margin 7.7 % 7.1 % 5.3 % Adjusted EBITDA margin 13.0 % 12.8 % 10.7 % Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net 13.0 % 12.8 % 11.5 %

Exhibit 9 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 Subsea Surface Technologies Corporate Expense Foreign Exchange, net Total Revenue $ 4,714.3 $ 1,032.2 $  $  $ 5,746.5 Operating profit (loss), as reported (pre-tax) $ 397.9 $ 81.4 $ (205.6 ) $ (92.6 ) $ 181.1 Charges and (credits): Impairment 1.6  0.4  2.0 Restructuring and other charges 2.1 5.9   8.0 Non-recurring legal settlement charges   126.5  126.5 Subtotal 3.7 5.9 126.9  136.5 Adjusted operating profit (loss) 401.6 87.3 (78.7 ) (92.6 ) 317.6 Depreciation and amortization 231.9 49.8 1.6  283.3 Adjusted EBITDA $ 633.5 $ 137.1 $ (77.1 ) $ (92.6 ) $ 600.9 Foreign exchange, net    92.6 92.6 Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net $ 633.5 $ 137.1 $ (77.1 ) $  $ 693.5 Operating profit margin, as reported 8.4 % 7.9 % 3.2 % Adjusted operating profit margin 8.5 % 8.5 % 5.5 % Adjusted EBITDA margin 13.4 % 13.3 % 10.5 % Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net 13.4 % 13.3 % 12.1 %

Exhibit 9 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Nine Months Ended September 30, 2022 Subsea Surface Technologies Corporate Expense Foreign Exchange, net and Other Total Revenue $ 4,118.7 $ 887.3 $  $  $ 5,006.0 Operating loss, as reported (pre-tax) $ 256.1 $ 32.7 $ (76.7 ) $ (14.6 ) $ 197.5 Charges and (credits): Impairment 1.9 2.8   4.7 Restructuring and other charges 0.6 7.7 3.0  11.3 Loss from investment in Technip Energies    27.7 27.7 Subtotal 2.5 10.5 3.0 27.7 43.7 Adjusted operating profit (loss) 258.6 43.2 (73.7 ) 13.1 241.2 Depreciation and amortization 230.2 52.0 2.2  284.4 Adjusted EBITDA $ 488.8 $ 95.2 $ (71.5 ) $ 13.1 $ 525.6 Foreign exchange, net    (13.1 ) (13.1 ) Adjusted EBITDA, excluding foreign exchange, net $ 488.8 $ 95.2 $ (71.5 ) $  $ 512.5 Operating profit margin, as reported 6.2 % 3.7 % 3.9 % Adjusted operating profit margin 6.3 % 4.9 % 4.8 % Adjusted EBITDA margin 11.9 % 10.7 % 10.5 % Adjusted EBITDA margin, excluding foreign exchange, net 11.9 % 10.7 % 10.2 %

Exhibit 10 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) September 30, June 30, September 30, 2023 2023 2022 Cash and cash equivalents $ 690.9 $ 585.2 $ 711.5 Short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt (407.3 ) (429.5 ) (231.9 ) Long-term debt, less current portion (933.5 ) (999.7 ) (1,134.9 ) Net debt $ (649.9 ) $ (844.0 ) $ (655.3 ) Net (debt) cash is a non-GAAP financial measure reflecting cash and cash equivalents, net of debt. Management uses this non-GAAP financial measure to evaluate our capital structure and financial leverage. We believe net debt, or net cash, is a meaningful financial measure that may assist investors in understanding our financial condition and recognizing underlying trends in our capital structure. Net (debt) cash should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, cash and cash equivalents as determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP or as an indicator of our operating performance or liquidity.

Exhibit 11 TECHNIPFMC PLC AND CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES (In millions, unaudited) Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023 2023 2022 Cash provided (required) by operating activities from continuing operations $ 221.9 $ (8.1 ) $ (214.3 ) Capital expenditures (43.6 ) (153.7 ) (94.3 ) Free cash flow (deficit) from continuing operations $ 178.3 $ (161.8 ) $ (308.6 ) Free cash flow (deficit) from continuing operations, is a non-GAAP financial measure and is defined as cash provided (required) by operating activities less capital expenditures. Management uses this non-GAAP financial measure to evaluate our financial condition. We believe from continuing operations, free cash flow (deficit) from continuing operations is a meaningful financial measure that may assist investors in understanding our financial condition and results of operations.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026822331/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: +1 281 591 5405

Email: Catie Tuley

David Willis

Senior Manager, Public Relations

Tel: +44 7841 492988

Email: David Willis

Source: TechnipFMC plc
Workspace designed with sustainability, the local economy and flexibility in mind

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Knot Worldwide, a leading global marketplace and family of brands championing celebration, is proud to announce the opening of its new office in the heart of Barcelona. Previously, The Knot Worldwide staff in the region had worked out of two separate offices, but now they are unified under one roof. Featuring an abundance of greenery, preservation of classic architectural details and a contemporary interior design, the new space represents a significant upgrade for local employees. The new office, located at Carrer de Pau Claris, 89, marks an expansion in the company's global presence and reflects its commitment to enhancing the wedding planning experience for couples and supporting industry professionals around the world.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026158238/en/

The Knot Worldwide Celebrates the Grand Opening of New Barcelona Office (Photo: Business Wire)

The Knot Worldwide welcomed employees into its new Barcelona office for the first time on October 23, 2023, and an official ribbon-cutting opening event will take place today, October 26, 2023. The Knot Worldwide does not uniformly mandate in-office days, instead empowering employees to work where they are most productive. Those who choose to work in the office are urged to take advantage of nearby eco-friendly transportation optionssuch as the metro, train, or busto reduce emissions. The entire workspace was created to underscore the companys focus on sustainability, flexibility and comfort. Barcelona-based employees span multiple departments and specialties; many are dedicated to Bodas.net, a brand that powers leading wedding-planning marketplaces, planning tools, and mobile apps across Europe, Central America and South America.

To us, the Barcelona office represents more than just an office; it embodies our philosophy work where you work best to create moments that matter, for the millions of couples and wedding professionals we serve each day, said Tim Chi, Chief Executive Officer of The Knot Worldwide. This guiding principle is woven into the very fabric of our workspace, fostering a dynamic environment where innovation, inclusivity and collaboration thrive, while ensuring that we're not just building careers, but creating meaningful moments in the process.

The historic building, which has stood for over a century, underwent an extensive renovation and The Knot Worldwide transformed it into a modern workspace between 2022 and 2023. Spanning 39,064 square feet across four of the building's seven floors, the office offers a range of workspaces to cater to the needs of up to 300 team members, including 122 bookable traditional desks, 64 collaborative seats, 14 flexible seating areas, 9 phone booths and 17 conference rooms.

Natural light abounds, and each floor has an outdoor area, including a spacious terrace with seating attached to the cafe. The building also offers amenities such as a scooter and bike room with charging stations, a film and photography studio, an onboarding space, and a mural by renowned local artist Perrine Honore, featuring Barcelona landmarks.

Im proud of our team for putting a great deal of thought into the design and buildout of our office, added Chi. Sustainability and contributing to the vibrant business community were among our top priorities. We partnered with local producers to source construction materials and furnish the space, selecting recycled items whenever possible. In day-to-day work at our beautiful new office, we will continue to find ways to support the local economy and embrace eco-conscious practices.

Like The Knot Worldwides other locations around the world, the new Barcelona office will limit use of paper, maintain refillable water stations to reduce plastic bottles and encourage use of public transportation. The Knot Worldwide has office locations in the U.S. spanning Austin, Texas; New York, N.Y.; Omaha, Neb.; Portland, Ore.; and Washington D.C., along with international office locations in Delhi, India; Galway, Ireland; and London, England.

About The Knot Worldwide

In more than 16 countries around the world, The Knot Worldwides global family of brands enables our communities to celebrate the moments that make us. At the core of the TKWW business is a leading global online wedding marketplace, connecting couples with local wedding professionals and a comprehensive suite of personalized wedding websites, planning tools, invitations and registry services that make wedding planning easier for couples. The company's wedding planning services are offered through its global wedding brands, including The Knot, WeddingWire, Bodas.net, Hitched.co.uk and Matrimonio.com. TKWW also supports parents through the pregnancy and parenting journey with content and tools on The Bump, and helps communities plan other important life celebrations through The Bash.

The company is headquartered in Chevy Chase, Maryland, with offices throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. Check out The Knot Worldwide on LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026158238/en/

MEDIA

Anni Jones

Director of Corporate Communications at The Knot Worldwide

[email protected]

(831) 588-4121

Source: The Knot Worldwide
CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- ThirdLine, a leading analytics software provider for municipalities and school districts specializing in auditing, financial monitoring, and fraud detection, is excited to announce that forensic accounting expert, Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope, has partnered with the Company as a Senior Advisor. This collaboration represents a significant milestone of two industry experts in bolstering transparency, accountability, and fraud awareness within the public sector.

In her role as Senior Advisor, Dr. Pope will partner with ThirdLine on thought leadership and industry research to bring awareness on the prevalence of government fraud and how to stop it. This influential collaboration will advance ThirdLines ability to inspire modernization of governments internal controls, monitoring, and risk-based auditing.

We first heard about Dr. Pope from her amazing documentary All the Queen's Horses, which dives into the largest municipal fraud in U.S. history, demonstrating her dedication to confronting internal control challenges. As a CPA, I can say that she makes CPAs look cool. We are delighted to partner with her, said David Osborn, CEO of ThirdLine.

Dr. Pope echoed the excitement, My professional research began with how fraud happens, then why fraud happens, and now in collaboration with ThirdLine, I am excited to help governments know how to detect fraud. ThirdLine is a technology that was thoughtfully created with government users in mind. Its fraud detection, simplified.

Together, ThirdLine and Dr. Pope will release a series of webinars, articles, and thought leadership initiatives, to provide valuable insights into strategies and technologies that can help governments stop fraud in its tracks, safeguarding public resources.

About ThirdLine: ThirdLine is the public sector command center for auditing, financial monitoring, and business process improvement. With hundreds of fraud related no-code analytics, ThirdLine is committed to enhancing transparency and accountability. ThirdLine offers innovative solutions to public sector entities, helping them identify and address financial risks efficiently.

About Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope: Dr. Kelly Richmond Pope holds the position of Dr. Barry Jay Epstein Endowed Professor of Forensic Accounting at DePaul University in Chicago, IL. She is a nationally recognized expert in risk assessment, forensic accounting, and white-collar crime research, as well as an award-winning educator, TED speaker, researcher, author, and documentary filmmaker. Pope's work centers on exposing financial misconduct and promoting ethical practices within the financial industry.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026432756/en/

David Osborn

CEO, ThirdLine

[email protected]

Source: ThirdLine
High-growth field service management platform at the convergence of SaaS and payments helps customers simplify operations, streamline their sales processes, and improve collections

Complementary solutions align with current customer bases needs, enhancing cross-sell opportunities and strengthening relationships

Further expands total addressable market

PORTLAND, Maine--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- WEX (NYSE: WEX), the global commerce platform that simplifies the business of running a business, today announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Payzer, a high-growth, cloud-based, field service management software provider. Upon expected completion, the acquisition will advance WEXs growth strategy of expanding its product suite and creating additional cross-sell opportunities by providing a new, scalable SaaS solution for its approximately 150,000 small business customers who operate field service companies.

We are thrilled at the prospect of providing an exciting new offering for our Mobility customers with the anticipated acquisition of Payzer, said Melissa Smith, WEXs Chair, Chief Executive Officer, and President. Payzer's top-tier service offering and feature set is at the convergence of SaaS and payments. Payzer is an example of us finding a high-growth market with a customer base that overlaps with our current customer footprint, with a great product and service offering to address the needs of these customers.

WEX is a leader in mobility solutions with more than 600,000 customers and approximately 19 million vehicles served on its Mobility platforms. Payzer is a full-featured field service management SaaS provider, offering scheduling, dispatching, customer communications, invoicing, sales proposals, supply ordering, and maintenance agreements. Payzer has initially focused on providing solutions to HVAC, plumbing, and roofing small businesses. These solutions are all woven together in an easy-to-use and intuitive software package available on both desktop and mobile applications. In addition, Payzer has deep relationships and distribution partnerships with key OEMs in the industries it serves, simplifying the relationship for customers with their upstream suppliers.

Transaction Details

Pursuant to the terms of the definitive agreement, WEX will acquire Payzer for total consideration of approximately $250 million, with additional contingent consideration of up to $11 million based on defined performance metrics, subject to certain working capital and other adjustments. WEX intends to finance the acquisition through its revolving credit facility and cash on hand.

The transaction is expected to be completed before the end of 2023, subject to customary closing conditions.

Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results

In a separate press release issued today, WEX announced its third quarter 2023 results and raised its full-year 2023 financial guidance.

As previously announced, WEX will host its third quarter earnings conference call today, October 26, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. (ET). The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet, and can be accessed along with the accompanying slides at the Investor Relations section of the WEX website, www.wexinc.com. The live conference call also can be accessed by dialing (888) 510-2008 or (646) 960-0306. The Conference ID number is 2237921. A replay of the webcast and the accompanying slides will be available on the Company's website.

About WEX

WEX (NYSE: WEX) is the global commerce platform that simplifies the business of running a business. WEX has created a powerful ecosystem that offers seamlessly embedded, personalized solutions for its customers around the world. Through its rich data and specialized expertise in simplifying benefits, reimagining mobility and paying and getting paid, WEX aims to make it easy for companies to overcome complexity and reach their full potential. For more information, please visit www.wexinc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements made by WEX

This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements regarding the expected strategic, operational, and financial benefits of the acquisition and the anticipated timing of the expected closing of the acquisition. Any statements in this press release that are not statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, plan, project, will and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such words. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results or performance to be materially different from future results or performance expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including WEXs ability to complete or successfully integrate the acquisition or to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisition, as well as other risks and uncertainties identified in Item 1A of WEXs Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on February 28, 2023, and WEXs Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023 and June 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on April 27, 2023 and July 27, 2023, respectively, and subsequent filings with the SEC. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release and undue reliance should not be placed on these statements. WEX disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026951095/en/

Media:

WEX

Julie Lydon, 415-816-9397

[email protected]

Investors:

WEX

Steve Elder, 207-523-7769

[email protected]

Source: WEX
Award recognizes revolutionary redox membrane technology for low-cost lithium extraction from geothermal brine

Novel lithium-ion manufacturing platform aims to reshape the battery and energy storage landscape

DAYTON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Xerion Advanced Battery Corp., a privately held manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries with a vision to revolutionize the energy industry through the development of disruptive technologies, announced today that it has been awarded the United States Department of Energys (DOE) inaugural American-Made Geothermal Lithium Extraction Prize, in partnership with a team from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The prize, which includes $1 million in funding from the Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO), will accelerate Xerions plans to commercialize its innovative, first-of-its-kind ceramic redox membrane technology, which significantly lowers the cost and reduces the energy required to extract lithium from geothermal brine by as much as 90% compared to current technologies.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026680004/en/

Xerions novel approach to lithium extraction from geothermal brine offers substantial advantages over methods in use today related to selective extraction of lithium, material stability, and environmental impact. This separation technology is a significant extension of Xerions advanced dense cathode innovation. Professor Paul Braun, the University of Illinois team lead, notes, "Unlike polymer membranes, Xerions DirectPlate ceramic membrane is highly resistant to the temperature and chemistry of geothermal brines, providing the required lithium selectivity and durability for real-world operation."

Xerion demonstrated that its patented nanostructured ceramic redox membrane can efficiently extract lithium from raw geothermal brines with low lithium concentrations, such as those found in Californias Salton Sea region, and produce high-quality aqueous lithium hydroxide. This lithium hydroxide can be used directly as a battery feedstock to synthesize cathodes in a single step using Xerion's DirectPlate molten salt electroplating process; converted to a lithium metal anode for use in solid-state batteries; or fed into the current conventional cathode production process.

The development of efficient geothermal lithium extraction technologies promises to simultaneously advance efforts to secure a domestic lithium supply and to solidify the United States position in the global transition to net-zero emissions, stated John Busbee, CEO of Xerion. Our membrane technology is uniquely suited to harness the full potential of the Salton Seas geothermal brine. We look forward to identifying and working alongside partners to continue bringing this exciting innovation to market. The development and commercialization of our low-cost, high-efficiency direct lithium extraction (DLE) from lithium brine sources globally will bring us one step closer to a clean energy future that is powered by homegrown innovation.

Demand for lithium and other minerals key to a future centered around zero-emission technologies is surging, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). IEA estimates the global demand for lithium tripled between 2017 and 2022, and projects it will double again by 2030. With applications in electric vehicles, stationary energy storage, consumer electronics, aerospace, and defense technologies, lithium is a critical element in the electrification of our economy.

The Salton Sea is home to a lithium supply with the potential to meet all of the United States projected future demand and 40% of global demand, according to the California Energy Commission. The market for energy transition minerals reached $320 billion in 2022 and is set for continued rapid growth, according to the IEAs first annual IEA Critical Minerals Market Review.

Team SelectPure, consisting of Xerion and the University of Illinois, was the first-place winner of the American-Made Geothermal Lithium Extraction Prize, having advanced through three competition phases over the course of two years. Work under the prize helps support access to cost-effective, domestic sources of this critical mineral for batteries used in stationary storage and electric vehicles. Funded by the Geothermal Technologies Office (GTO) and administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the American-Made Geothermal Lithium Extraction Prize is part of DOEs portfolio researching lithium extraction from geothermal brines.

Game-Changing Lithium-Ion Battery Platform

Xerion has spent more than a decade developing its novel lithium-ion battery technology, using a breakthrough production process and a novel new battery architecture to significantly reduce the cost of high-performance lithium-ion batteries. Xerions revolutionary manufacturing platform is founded upon two patented core technologies -- DirectPlate, an innovative refining and deposition technique, and StructurePore, a novel battery electrode architecture.

These core technologies combined deliver a dramatically lower-cost lithium-ion battery with higher energy density, higher power, faster charge, longer life, improved safety and 40% lower carbon emissions than conventional battery manufacturing.

Xerions DirectPlate manufacturing process can use less pure, 100% domestically sourced battery precursors and can be adapted to recycle end-of-life batteries. This eliminates the need to import battery materials from China, the current source of nearly 95% of these materials, and strengthens and improves the confidence in the supply chain. At full-scale production, Xerion is poised to drastically transform the domestic battery landscape.

About Xerion Advanced Battery Corp.

Founded in 2010, Xerion Advanced Battery Corp. is a privately held manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries with a vision to revolutionize the energy industry through the development of disruptive technologies. Xerion leverages a patented technology platform to enable step-change performance improvements compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries across a range of attributes while mitigating carbon emissions. Xerions core technologies produce fundamental improvements across the full spectrum of the battery supply chain, from mining through to the end user.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026680004/en/

Investors:

Dr. John Busbee

[email protected]

(217) 377-6888

Media:

[email protected]

Source: Xerion Advanced Battery Corp.
The European Union on Thursday ramped up pressure on Serbia and Kosovo to normalize their relations by enlisting the leaders of three heavyweight member countries and senior officials to make a major push to get the former war foes to set aside decades of differences.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Prime Minister Albin Kurti distrust each other and were not expected to meet face to face. But they did hold talks separately with the leaders of France, Germany and Italy, plus the two EU officials supervising a stuttering dialogue between them.

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell told reporters that work is ongoing after a first round of talks and that more meetings might be needed on Thursday. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said only that she, French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz had urged both leaders to take steps forward toward normalizing their ties.

The meetings in Brussels come on the sidelines of an EU summit. Fears are high of a resumption of the violence that has marked their relations since Kosovo unilaterally broke away from Serbia in 2008. Belgrade still considers Kosovo a Serbian province and has never recognized its independence. Both Kosovo and Serbia want to join the EU, but theyve been warned that they must sort out their differences first.

The Europeans have been spurred into action by a major gun battle in northern Kosovo on Sept. 24, when about 30 Serb gunmen crossed into northern Kosovo, killed a police officer and set up barricades. Three gunmen were killed in the shootout with Kosovo police.

Thursdays talks were aimed at putting into action an agreement that Vucic and Kurti reached in February, although the two have raised issues concerning that deal since. The idea is to work on new proposals and ideas floated in exploratory talks last weekend, said Peter Stano, the spokesman for Borrell, chief supervisor of the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue.

I hope for a good atmosphere, but it wont be easy, Vucic told Serbian state television network RTS on the eve of the meetings. We are most certainly open for discussion, and they are knocking on an open door. The big problem is that neither he nor Kurti want to be the first to make concessions without guarantees that the other will reciprocate.

The EU and U.S. are pressing Kosovo to allow the creation of an Association of the Serb-Majority Municipalities to coordinate work on education, health care, land planning and economic development in communities of northern Kosovo mostly populated by ethnic Serbs.

Kurti fears such an association would be a step toward creating a Serb mini-state with wide autonomy. The last thing the Europeans want is more conflict in their backyard. The war between Serbia and Kosovo in 1998-99 left more than 10,000 people dead, mostly Kosovo Albanians.

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FILE PHOTO: The logo of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) sits outside its headquarters ahead of the OPEC and NON-OPEC meeting, Austria December 6, 2019. REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger/File Photo

By Stephanie Kelly and Alex Lawler

NEW YORK (Reuters) - U.S. waterborne imports of crude from OPEC+ members including Saudi Arabia have dropped steadily over the last year, further tightening supplies in the U.S. while supporting other markets including Europe, according to flows data and analysts.

Going forward, the level of U.S. crude imports from OPEC and other exporters and U.S. shipments to Europe will probably have a more direct impact on global oil prices thanks to a change made earlier this year to the Brent crude benchmark.

Lower U.S. imports coincide with supply cuts by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other allies, and extra voluntary curbs from Saudi Arabia and Russia of a combined 1.3 million bpd until the end of 2023.

The decision by Saudi Arabia and Russia to extend the voluntary cuts drove up oil prices to over $90 a barrel in late September. The cuts also tightened supplies of crude, particularly sour grades, ahead of the winter heating season.

Total U.S. crude waterborne imports are set to average 2.47 million barrels per day in October, down from 2.92 million bpd in September according to figures from data intelligence firm Kpler, with shipments falling from OPEC+ producers including Nigeria, Algeria and Saudi Arabia.

Within that, Saudi crude exports to the U.S. are set to drop to 241,000 bpd in October, Kpler figures showed, down from 286,000 bpd in September and from 410,000 bpd in October 2022.

Some of the decrease is linked to the change of seasons. U.S. peak gasoline demand winds down at the end of summer as refineries slow operations for maintenance. But there are other reasons for the fall, analysts said.

"By keeping barrels away from the U.S., it is influencing sentiment, keeping inventories in check, and ultimately influencing pricing," said Matt Smith, lead oil analyst for the Americas at Kpler, referring to Saudi Arabia.

Instead, Saudi Arabia is exporting more crude to China, Smith added. Saudi crude exports to China rose to nearly 1.6 million bpd in September, up from 1.2 million bpd in August and 1.37 million bpd in July, Kpler data showed.

West Coast refiners including Chevron's Richmond, California, refinery and Los Angeles-area refiners took in less Saudi crude in September, Vortexa's Rohit Rathod said.

U.S. CRUDE EXPORTS FALL

As the U.S. sees less crude imports, it has exported less oil to Europe.

U.S. crude exports to Europe fell to 1.86 million bpd in September and 1.84 million bpd in August, from 2.01 million bpd in July, Kpler data showed.

Lower exports to Europe impacted Brent benchmark crude futures prices, some traders said.

Tight supply led the premium for front-month Brent crude futures to rise to as much as $3.26 a barrel above the second month, the highest since 2022.

Adi Imsirovic of consultant Surrey Clean Energy and a senior associate at CSIS said tightness in the U.S. crude market is being felt more quickly on international markets than in the past because of the increased role of U.S. crude in the benchmark.

"The fact that it is more direct now is probably a good thing," said Imsirovic, also a veteran oil trader. "The U.S. market has a more direct link with the key global benchmark than you had before and you can see it right away."

The introduction in June of U.S. crude grade WTI Midland to help set the price of the dated Brent benchmark assessed by S&P Global Commodity Insights means that the U.S. crude market's influence over prices abroad has increased.

Dated Brent, used globally for trades, is now based on the price of five North Sea crudes and that of U.S. grade WTI Midland. Large exports of Midland to Europe during the summer helped keep a lid on Brent prices, traders and analysts said.

(Reporting by Stephanie Kelly, Alex Lawler; Editing by David Gregorio)
Infosys (NYSE: INFY) today announced that it has signed a five-year collaboration with automotive marquee smart Europe GmbH to refine its Direct-to-Customer (D2C) business model in Europe and provide enhanced customer experience, data-driven personalization and engagement for the existing model smart #1, the newly announced smart #3, and other upcoming all-electric models from the iconic brand. Through this strategic collaboration, Infosys will help smart Europe GmbH redefine the online EV buying experience and apply state-of-the-art Machine Learning (ML) models to accurately forecast sales and aftersales demand.

Infosys was chosen to assist the premium EV maker in this transformation for its deep expertise in enabling consolidation across automotive sales and e-commerce processes and systems. To enable smart Europe GmbH derive exceptional value from software, data, and cloud investments, Infosys will leverage its trusted process, functional and technical expertise, complemented by a design thinking-led consulting approach. Infosys will also help smart Europe GmbH to efficiently sell electric vehicles across 15 European countries with a D2C sales approach and secure engagement across lead generation, prospect conversion, sales and aftersales channels, supplemented by end-to-end ownership and accountability.

Dirk Adelmann , Chief Executive Officer, smart Europe GmbH, said, "We are pleased to have Infosys as our partner on this journey. Infosys' strong leadership commitment backed by its ability to drive end-to-end application development and maintenance with efficiency and effectiveness, will help us boost our operational performance and user experience."
Raytheon, an RTX (NYSE: RTX) business, in partnership with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, will build a manufacturing facility in East Camden, Arkansas to produce the Tamir missile for the Iron Dome Weapon System and its U.S. variant, SkyHunter.

Through the established Raytheon-Rafael Area Protection Systems joint venture, the companies have committed to a $33 million capital investment to establish the new facility. Once operational, the facility will produce missiles for the U.S. Marine Corps and other allied partners.

"This new Camden site will be the first all-up-round production facility in the U.S. to help support the Armed Forces and allies across the globe with this highly capable air-defense missile," said Raytheon's Tom Laliberty , president of Land & Air Defense Systems and Raytheon-Rafael Area Protection Systems chairman of the board. "This new facility will allow us to expand our presence in Camden and further benefit from the resident talent and expertise of this aerospace and defense epicenter."

Raytheon and Rafael have teamed for over a decade on Iron Dome, which has more than 5,000 operational intercepts and a success rate exceeding 90%. The U.S. version of the Iron Dome Weapon System's Tamir, SkyHunter, is a medium-range air defense weapon designed to counter a range of threats, including cruise missiles, manned and unmanned aircraft, rockets, artillery and mortars. SkyHunter missiles will be produced for the U.S. Marine Corps Medium Range Intercept Capability, or MRIC, program.

" Arkansas is proud to be a leader in aerospace and defense, helping to safeguard the freedom and security of the United States and its allies around the world," said Clint O'Neal , executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. " East Camden offers an experienced workforce for Raytheon and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems' new venture, and we look forward to the community's and the companies' success."

The joint venture plans to break ground on the new facility before the end of the year with the intent to begin missile production in 2025.
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- APPlife Digital Solutions, Inc. (ALDS) is proud to announce that they have signed an Asset Purchase Agreement (APA) to acquire LeSalon.

This agreement marks a defining moment in ALDSs history as they welcome LeSalon to the ALDS family. LeSalon is a revolutionary concept that uniquely fits into ALDS, allowing them to expand and grow the LeSalon model globally, into the US markets and beyond. The Asset Purchase Agreement is for a combination of stock and cash. The agreement is subject to a period of audit to verify and record historical income and revenue prior to a formal closing. LeSalon is a tech system that allows beauty professionals to manage their bookings/calendar and for registered and verified users to connect with those verified professionals and meet at a location the user chooses. It is no surprise that after seeing great success in the UK, LeSalon is ready to make it's mark on an international level. "This is an exciting moment for our company," says Matthew Reid, CEO of APPlife Digital Solutions, Inc. "LeSalon is the perfect tech system for beauty professionals to offer their professional services, manage their calendars and manage bookings/payments processing and for Users to find, connect and reserve an appointment from a verified professional. We look forward to introducing LeSalon around the world."

ABOUT APPLIFE DIGITAL SOLUTIONS, INC. APPlife Digital Solutions Inc., with offices in San Francisco CA. and Shanghai China, is a business incubator and portfolio manager that creates and invests in e-commerce and cloud-based solutions. The Company invests in and creates solutions for work, home life, recreation and research that makes users more productive and more efficient, whether at work, home or traveling the world. APPlife's cloud-based businesses are designed to provide easy-to-use life solutions, often to address everyday issues and needs. They include a wide array of topics and needed services to cover the full marketplace across the spectrum. For more information visit www.applifedigital.com.

Current APPlife Digital Solutions, Inc. e-commerce solutions:

Rooster Essentials  The most comprehensive eCommerce grooming shop for men. Bringing over two hundred daily essentials from more than eighty brands to your doorstep.

Global Hemp Services  APPlife is the lead investor in this eCommerce platform that offers hemp related products such as hemp building materials, insulation, personal use items and carbon credits.

Contact Information:APPlife Digital SolutionsInvestor RelationsEmail: [email protected]

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This news release includes 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, as amended, regarding, among other things our plans, strategies, and prospects -- both business and financial. Although we believe that our plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that we will achieve or realize these plans, acquisitions, intentions, or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions. Many of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "should," "planned," "will," "may," "intend," "estimated," and "potential," among others. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements we make in this news release include market conditions and those set forth in reports or documents that we file from time to time with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements attributable to APPlife Digital Solutions, Inc. or a person acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary language.

Source: APPlife Digital Solutions, Inc.
Duck Creek gathers with industry leaders to discuss the state of insurance and showcase the value of their joint solutions

BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Duck Creek Technologies, the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, is gearing up for an extensive engagement with partners at InsureTech Connect (ITC) Vegas, taking place from October 31 to November 2, 2023. Attendees are invited to participate in a series of dynamic events hosted by Duck Creek, promising valuable insights and networking opportunities, including partner sessions at booth #2231 in the Bayside Exhibit Hall, a VIP event at the Skyfall Lounge, as well as a captivating talk alongside partners CCC Intelligent Solutions (CCC), the AI-powered, industry-standard auto solutions provider, and Microsoft.



Duck Creek solution partners will participate in live presentations showcasing the value of their partnerships and collaborative efforts with Duck Creek to enable insurance innovation across the globe. The demonstrated innovations span a wide spectrum, encompassing cutting-edge technologies in telematics, loss control, personal and commercial lines data, chat communications, generative AI (artificial intelligence), and much more. These partners include Cambridge Mobile Telematics, CCC, Cincom, Coherent, Cytora, GhostDraft, Glia, Hi Marley, Hyland, ICEYE, LexisNexis Risk Solutions, Microsoft, Newgen, Opterrix, Precisely, Relativity6, Risk Control Technologies, Shift Technology, SPLICE Software, TCG Process, TensorFlight, Verisk, Vymo and Whatfix.

Duck Creek will host a VIP event at the Skyfall Lounge, a premier venue offering a spectacular view of the Las Vegas Strip, which is co-sponsored by Microsoft and LTIMindtree. The company will also engage in the insightful How AI is Changing the Way We Operate in Insurance Presented by Microsoft session, which features speakers Sasha Korol, Sr. Director, Innovation at Duck Creek, Jim DeMarco, Insurance Digital Strategist, Microsoft, and Mike Silva, Chief Revenue Officer, CCC.

"We look forward to spending time with our valued partners and engaging with this diverse audience of insurance and technology experts," said Robert Fletcher, Sr. Partner Manager at Duck Creek Technologies. "InsureTech Connect is the leading industry event for understanding the pulse of the industry and how technology is reshaping it. Duck Creek is thrilled to welcome a lineup of solution partners at our booth as we help our current and prospective customers understand how we enable them to modernize and maximize their operational efficiency.

About Duck Creek Technologies

Duck Creek Technologies is the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information  LinkedIn and Twitter.

Media Contacts:

Carley Bunch

[email protected]
SEOUL, Korea and REDWOOD CITY, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GPCR Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical stage international biopharmaceutical company with an innovative approach to developing cancer therapeutics based on targeting G Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR) pairs, announces publication of a research paper in PLOS ONE. The paper shows that the companys lead small molecule asset, GPC-100, a novel CXCR4 antagonist and a potent hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) mobilizer, when combined with the beta-adrenergic receptor blocker propranolol, results in a significant increase in circulating HSCs in mice. These findings strongly support the use of this combination for peripheral blood HSC harvest in autologous stem cell transplant treatment in hematological cancers.

The paper, authored in collaboration with Seoul National Universitys School of Biological Sciences and Institute of Microbiology, is entitled, GPC-100, a novel CXCR4 antagonist, improves in vivo hematopoietic cell mobilization when combined with propranolol (1).

The authors highlight that GPC-100 alone shows greater mobilization efficacy than a drug already approved for stem cell mobilization. Importantly, when combined with propranolol, GPC-100-induced HSC mobilization increases by another 2-fold. The mobilization efficiency by GPC-100 plus propranolol is similar to that of the standard of care treatment with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF). Together, this study suggests a strategy with a potential to mobilize sufficient HSC without the use of G-CSF, and thereby reduce the risk of G-CSF associated moderate to severe side effects such as severe bone pain. This also provides a better stem cell transplant treatment option for cancer patients with autoimmune diseases which may be exacerbated by G-CSF or sickle cell disease, where it is contraindicated. Finally, the paper supports that the triple combination of GPC-100 plus propranolol and G-CSF mobilizes a greater number of HSCs compared to the standards of care and is predicted to be a best-in-class mobilizer.

Dr. Dong Seung Seen, GPCR Therapeutics founder and CEO, commented, This latest high-quality paper, produced in close collaboration between our Korean and US sites, together with Seoul National University, shines a spotlight on the potential for our lead asset, GPC-100, to be used with propranolol as a combination therapy for hematological malignancies, including multiple myeloma. Our discovery of this powerful functional relationship provides new hope in this notoriously hard to treat cancer.

Hematological malignancies, such as multiple myeloma, are hard to treat. Increasingly, clinicians are using Autologous Stem Cell Transplant (ASCT) to treat patients, which has improved the anti-cancer response and survival compared to conventional chemotherapy. However, for ASCT to work well, hematopoietic stem cells, especially CD34+ cells, need to be successfully mobilized out of the patients bone marrow and into their peripheral blood, where the cells are more easily collected, and can then be stored for later transplantation. A key limiting factor is that mobilization is often inadequate, and insufficient cells are harvested for use in the patients treatment. This paper reports on how this common treatment limitation could be overcome through use of a combination of GPC-100 and propranolol.

As announced on 17 January 2023, the company has initiated a phase 2 trial in the US for GPC-100, which targets CXCR4, one of the most prevalent chemokine GPCRs over-expressed in more than 23 cancers. This randomized, open-label phase 2 study assesses the efficacy of GPC-100 and propranolol, with and without G-CSF, for the mobilization of stem cells in patients with multiple myeloma undergoing ASCT. The paper announced today supports this clinical trial.

References

(1) https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0287863

 More than 35% of FDA approved drugs are GPCRs. Still, GPCRs complex pharmacology arising from their interactions with other GPCRs presents unique opportunities for drug development.

About GPCR Therapeutics

GPCR Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical stage international biopharmaceutical company with an innovative approach to developing therapeutics built on its proprietary GPCR data. The companys lead small molecule asset, GPC-100/Burixafor, targets CXCR4, one of the most prevalent chemokine GPCRs overexpressed in various cancers.

The company has recently initiated a US Phase 2 clinical trial assessing the efficacy of the combination of GPC-100 and propranolol in patients with multiple myeloma. In addition, the company is engaged in active collaborations with domestic and international biotechnology companies.

By targeting the unique pharmacology of GPCR pairs, the company aims to develop life changing treatments for cancer and other diseases. The company has identified that CXCR4 interacts with the beta-2 adrenergic receptor (B2AR), and this GPCR pair presents an alternate signaling pathway that is synergistically dependent on CXCR4 and B2AR activation.

GPCR Therapeutics has its HQ in Seoul, Korea with additional R&D facilities in the San Francisco Bay Area, USA. For more information, visit gpcr.co.kr and follow us on LinkedIn.

For more information, please contact:

GPCR Therapeutics (in Seoul)DaYoon Kim - Business Development ManagerTel: +82-2-878-2848[email protected]

Source: GPCR Therapeutics
(Dollar amounts are in thousands unless otherwise specified)



GUELPH, Ontario, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hammond Power Solutions Inc. (HPS) (TSX: HPS.A) a leading manufacturer of dry-type transformers, power quality products and related magnetics, today announced its financial results for the third quarter 2023.



HIGHLIGHTS

Record sales of $179 million in the quarter, a 20.5% increase versus 2022. Year-to-date sales of $523 million, a 26.3% increase versus 2022.

Net Income of $14.4 million in the quarter, a 25.2% increase versus 2022. Year-to-date net income of $43.5 million, a 63.5% increase versus 2022.

Earnings per share of $1.21 for the quarter and $3.65 year-to-date.

Order backlog increased 11% versus Quarter 2, 2023.

The third quarter saw continued strong demand across our portfolio of products and services resulting a record quarterly revenue for the Company. Demand was driven by our custom power units that serve renewable and data center applications, said Adrian Thomas, CEO of Hammond Power Solutions. We are progressing with our previously announced capital plan and we have recently approved an additional capital expenditure to address expected long-term demand in our core industrial markets. In parallel, continuous improvement programs and greater hiring have progressively ramped up plant productivity and incrementally increased our production rates.

Sales for the quarter-ended September 30, 2023 were at a record level of $179,521 an increase of $30,568 or 20.5% from Quarter 3, 2022 sales of $148,953. Year-to-date 2023 sales increased $108,895 or 26.3% to $523,106 compared to $414,211 in 2022. Sales in the United States (U.S.) and Mexico increased by $25,782 or 24.8%, finishing at $129,762 for Quarter 3, 2023 compared to $103,980 in Quarter 3, 2022. Year-to-date U.S. and Mexican sales were $365,876 in 2023 and $281,015 in 2022, an increase of $84,861 or 30.2%. U.S. and Mexican sales, stated in U.S. dollars, were $96,818 in Quarter 3, 2023 compared to Quarter 3, 2022 of $79,709, an increase of $17,109 or 21.5%. Year-to-date U.S. and Mexican sales stated in U.S. dollars were $272,008 in 2023 and $218,957 in 2022, an increase of $53,052 or 24.2%. Canadian sales increased to $41,969 for the quarter, an increase of $2,705 or 6.9% from Quarter 3, 2022 sales of $39,264. Year-to-date Canadian sales were $123,925 in 2023 and $114,189 in 2022, an increase of $9,736 or 8.5%. Indian sales for Quarter 3, 2023 finished at $7,790 versus $5,709 in Quarter 2, 2022, an increase of $2,081 or 36.5%. Year-to-date Indian sales were $33,305 in 2023 and $19,007 in 2022, an increase of $14,298 or 75.2%.

The Companys Quarter 3, 2023 backlog increased by 40.3% as compared to Quarter 3, 2022 and has increased 11.3% from Quarter 2, 2023. The combination of price increases and strong demand later in 2022 and the first half of 2023 contributed to the high backlog increase from prior year.

Once again, the U.S. distributor channel led growth in the quarter, while our other channels and markets remained strong. With some of our planned equipment additions complete, we have pushed consolidated revenue to almost $180 million in the third quarter, said Richard Vollering, CFO of Hammond Power Solutions. Gross margins have remained resilient in the quarter at over 31%, roughly in line with the second quarter, and SG&A expenses were higher in the quarter, mainly due to higher compensation costs and higher business activity costs. Our cash position has strengthened in the quarter due to strong profitability along with working capital improvements.

The gross margin rate for Quarter 3, 2023 was 31.7% compared to Quarter 3, 2022 margin rate of 29.2%, an improvement of 2.4% of sales. The year-to-date gross margin rate was 31.5% in 2023 versus 27.9% in 2022, an increase of 3.6%. The improvement in gross margin rate is the result of better operating leverage due to high factory throughput, past price increases, a higher proportion of Mesta and power quality sales, and margin improvements in India. Higher gross margins were achieved in all channels and regions, and are supported by high demand for the Companys products.

Total selling and distribution expenses were $19,856 in Quarter 3, 2023 or 11.1% of sales versus $16,433 in Quarter 3, 2022 or 11.0% of sales, an increase of $3,423 and 0.1% of sales. Year-to-date selling and distribution expenses were $56,295 or 10.8% of sales in 2023 compared to $46,192 or 11.2% of sales in 2022, an increase of $10,103 but a decrease of 0.4% of sales. The year-over-year increase in selling and distribution expenses is a result of higher variable freight and commission expenses attributed to the large increase in sales.

General and administrative expenses were $16,504 or 9.2% of sales for Quarter 3, 2023 compared to Quarter 2, 2022 expenses of $10,976 or 7.4% of sales, an increase of $5,528 and 1.8% of sales. Year-to-date general and administration expenses were $46,261 or 8.8% of sales in 2023 compared to $30,274 or 7.3% of sales in 2022, an increase of $15,987 or 1.5% of sales. The increase is mainly due to higher share-based compensation costs, but also due to our ongoing strategic investments in people and resources to support our growth strategies with respect to Mesta, Mexico, and power quality, as well as supporting higher levels of general business activity.

Quarter 3, 2023 earnings from operations were $20,480 compared to $16,368 for the same quarter last year, an increase of $4,112. Year-to-date the earnings from operations were $62,060 in 2023 compared to $39,072 in 2022, an increase of $22,988 or 58.8%. The increase in earnings from operations in the quarter and year-to-date are primarily a result of significant increases in sales and gross margin dollars offset by higher selling, distribution, general and administrative expenses as well as higher income tax expense.

Interest expense for Quarter 3, 2023 was $265 a decrease of $183 compared to the Quarter 3, 2022 expense of $448. Year-to-date interest expense was $960 in 2023 and $1,060 in 2022, a decrease of $100. The foreign exchange gain in Quarter 3, 2023 was $725 compared to a foreign exchange gain of $2 in Quarter 3, 2022  a change of $723. Year-to-date the foreign exchange gain was $313 in 2023 compared to foreign exchange loss of $751 in 2022, a change of $1,064.

Net earnings for Quarter 3, 2023 finished at $14,437 compared to net earnings of $11,531 in Quarter 3, 2022, an increase of $2,906 or 25.2%. The increase in the quarterly earnings from operations is primarily a result of significant increases in sales and gross margin dollars offset by higher selling, distribution, general and administrative expenses as well as higher income tax expense.

EBITDA for Quarter 3, 2023 was $23,657 versus $18,970 in Quarter 3, 2022, an increase of $4,687 or 24.7%. Year-to-date EBITDA was $69,246 in 2023 compared to $45,653 in 2022, an increase of $23,593 or 51.7%.

Basic earnings per share were $1.21 for Quarter 3, 2023 versus $0.97 in Quarter 3, 2022, an increase of $0.24. Year-to-date the basic earnings per share were $3.65 in 2023 compared to $2.25 in 2022, an increase of $1.40.

Cash generated by operating activities for Quarter 3, 2023 was $22,159 versus $16,501 in Quarter 3, 2022, an increase in cash generated of $5,658. Year-to-date the net cash generated by operating activities was $23,988 in 2023 compared to $31,661 in 2022, a decrease of $7,673. Total cash generated by financing activities was $1,150 in the third quarter of 2023, compared to $4,083 in the same period in 2022. Year-to-date the cash generated by financing activities was $7,693 in 2023 and cash generated of $998 in 2022. Cash used in investing activities increased year-over-year with cash used of $9,225 in Quarter 3, 2023 from $3,127 in Quarter 3, 2022, an increase of $6,098. Year-to-date cash used in investing activities was $15,548 in 2023 and $6,250 in 2022, an increase of $9,298.

The sharp increase in sales volume since the end of 2022 has increased working capital requirements in 2023. As the company begins the implementation of its capacity expansion plans, it is beginning to incur higher capital expenditures in the second and third quarter. The Company expects capital expenditures to continue to increase for the remainderof 2023 and into 2024.

The Board of Directors of HPS declared a quarterly cash dividend of fifteen cents ($0.15) per Class A Subordinate Voting Share of HPS and a quarterly cash dividend of fifteen cents ($0.15) per Class B Common Share of HPS paid on September 22, 2023 to shareholders of record at the close of business on Sepember 15, 2023. The ex-dividend date was September 14, 2023. The Company has paid a cash dividend of forty cents ($0.40) per Class A Subordinate Voting Share and forty cents ($0.40) per Class B Common Shares year-to-date.





THREE MONTHS ENDED:

(dollars in thousands)



September 30, 2023



October 1, 2022



Change



Sales $ 179,521 $ 148,953 $ 30,568

Earnings from operations $ 20,480 $ 16,368 $ 4,112

Exchange gain $ (725) $ (2) $ (723)

Net earnings $ 14,437 $ 11,531 $ 2,906

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted





$

$





1.21

1.21



$

$







0.97

0.97









$

$







0.24

0.24 Cash generated by operations $ 22,159 $ 16,501 $ 5,658

EBITDA

$ 23,657 $ 18,970 $ 4,687 Capital Spending $ 9,231

$ 3,129 $ 6,102

NINE MONTHS ENDED:

(dollars in thousands)

September 30, 2023



October 1, 2022



Change



Sales $ 523,106 $ 414,211 $ 108,895

Earnings from operations $ 62,060 $ 39,072 $ 22,988



Exchange (gain) loss $ (313) $ 751 $ (1,064)

Net earnings $ 43,496 $ 26,605 $ 16,891

Earnings per share

Basic

Diluted





$

$





3.65

3.65





$

$





2.25

2.25







$

$





1.40

1.40 Cash generated by operations $ 23,988 $ 31,661 $ (7,673)

EBITDA

$ 69,246 45,653 $ 23,593 Capital Spending $ 15,550

$ 6,006

$ 9,544

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information



This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including statements that relate to among other things, HPS strategies, intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations and estimates, and can generally be identified by the use of words such as may, will, could, should, would, likely, expect, intend, estimate, anticipate, believe, plan, objective and continue and words and expressions of similar import. Although HPS believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Certain material factors or assumptions are applied in making forward-looking statements, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include but are not limited to: general business and economic conditions (including but not limited to currency rates); changes in laws and regulations; legal and regulatory proceedings; and the ability to execute strategic plans. HPS does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements contained in this document, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

ABOUT HAMMOND POWER SOLUTIONS INC.

Hammond Power Solutions Inc. (HPS or the Company) enables electrification through its broad range of dry-type transformers, power quality products and related magnetics. HPS standard and custom-designed products are essential and ubiquitous in electrical distribution networks through an extensive range of end-user applications. The Company has manufacturing plants in Canada, the United States (U.S.), Mexico and India and sells its products around the globe. HPS shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange and trade under the symbol HPS.A.

Hammond Power Solutions  passionate people energizing a better world

For further information, please contact:

David Feick

Investor Relations

519-822-2441 x453

[email protected]
WESTFORD, Mass., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kadant Inc. (NYSE: KAI) announced it will release its 2023 third quarter results after the market closes on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 and will hold a webcast the next day, Wednesday, November 1, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. eastern time. During the call the Company will discuss its third quarter financial performance and future expectations.

To listen to the live call and view the webcast, go to the Investors section of the Companys website at www.kadant.com. Participants interested in joining the calls live question and answer session are required to register by clicking here or selecting the Q&A link on our website to receive a dial-in number and unique PIN. It is recommended that you join the call 10 minutes prior to the start of the event. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website through December 1, 2023. The earnings release and webcast presentation will be posted in the Investors section of our website.

About Kadant Kadant is a global supplier of technologies and engineered systems that drive Sustainable Industrial Processing. The Companys products and services play an integral role in enhancing efficiency, optimizing energy utilization, and maximizing productivity in process industries. Kadant is based in Westford, Massachusetts, with approximately 3,100 employees in 20 countries worldwide. For more information, visit www.kadant.com.

ContactsInvestor Contact Information:Michael McKenney, 978-776-2000[email protected]orMedia Contact Information:Wes Martz, 269-278-1715[email protected]

Source: Kadant Inc
NORFOLK, Va., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

What: HII (NYSE: HII) will celebrate the opening of the Newport News Shipbuilding Norfolk Campus. NNS and Navy leadership, city of Norfolk leaders and shipbuilders will mark the opening that will support continued progress toward more effective and efficient shipbuilding. When: Monday, Nov. 6, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. (Media should arrive by 10:15 a.m.) Where: Newport News Shipbuilding Norfolk Campus For GPS, use: 100 Orapax St., Norfolk, VA 23507 Upon arrival, check-in at the guard station. Follow signs to event parking. RSVP: U.S. citizenship and confirmation of media attendance is required. Please RSVP by noon on Friday, Nov. 3. Please RSVP to: Todd Corillo [email protected] (757) 688-3220 or Danny Hernandez [email protected] (202) 580-9086 Please note that because this is an industrial setting, long pants and flat, sturdy, closed-toe shoes are required. Details: Newport News Shipbuilding Norfolk Campus is located on land leased from Fairlead in the Lamberts Point area, at a development known as Fairwinds Landing. Shipbuilders from NNS have worked at the site for several months, constructing steel panels that will eventually make up units of Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier Enterprise (CVN 80). Additionally, HII will offer a windshield tour of the main NNS shipyard in Newport News for interested U.S. media following the event in Norfolk. Further details will be provided upon RSVP.

About HII

HII is a global, all-domain defense provider. HIIs mission is to deliver the worlds most powerful ships and all-domain solutions in service of the nation, creating the advantage for our customers to protect peace and freedom around the world.

As the nations largest military shipbuilder, and with a more than 135-year history of advancing U.S. national security, HII delivers critical capabilities extending from ships to unmanned systems, cyber, ISR, AI/ML and synthetic training. Headquartered in Virginia, HIIs workforce is 43,000 strong. For more information, visit:

HII on the web: https://www.hii.com/

HII on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamHII

HII on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/wearehii

HII on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearehii

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c473a7e-3e3f-46a3-8a48-9bd7beaddd07

NNS Norfolk Virginia Campus An employee from HII's Newport News Shipbuilding division works at the Norfolk, Virginia, campus. (photo by Ashley Cowan/HII).

Source: HII
COLORADO CITY, Ariz., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mountain America Credit Union is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest branch location in Colorado City, Arizona. The new location, nestled within the Bees Marketplace at 104 South Central Street, Colorado City, Arizona 86021the unofficial heart of the citywill celebrate its grand opening on Oct. 28, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. MST.

To celebrate the grand opening, the community is invited to join in for a celebration in the parking lot of Bees Marketplace. Featuring Chicharos Taco and Churrology food trucks, exciting promotions, and exclusive giveaways, including a chance to win a Bakcou Badger Electric Scooter, and a money machine for those who open a new account or add an additional product or service. In addition, there will be pumpkin painting, a caricature artist, cornhole, and other games for the whole family.

While many financial institutions are closing their service facilities, we are committed to adding branch locations and expanding our reach while deepening our connections within the communities we serve, said Sterling Nielsen, Mountain America Credit Unions president and chief executive officer. This new branch will bring the full suite of our exceptional financial products and services directly to where our members shop, offering a great member experience.

Brandon Rea is the facilitys branch manager and began his career at Mountain America more than three years ago as an assistant branch manager in the Washington, Utah, Branch. His ability to inspire teams has been instrumental in the credit unions ability to deliver on its mission of helping members define and achieve their financial dreams, said Laurie Sandstrom, regional manager of Mountain America Credit Union. He is a natural leader, with a proven history of driving his team towards excellence. He is responsible for leading and developing team members to ensure that every member consistently enjoys a high-quality experience with Mountain America.

On behalf of my team, we are absolutely thrilled to be part of Colorado City and to serve our incredible members, neighbors, and friends, said Rea. Our new branch is more than just a credit union location; its a promise to build lasting connections, support the community, and deepen relationships.

The new Colorado City branch provides traditional savings accounts, insurance, investments, auto, and RV loans, and a full array of mortgage loans and services. As a federally chartered credit union, Mountain America provides an additional broad assortment of services including real estate and business lending. The regular branch hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To learn more about Mountain America Credit Union, visit https://www.macu.com/accounts

About Mountain America Credit Union With more than 1 million members and $17 billion in assets, Mountain America Credit Union helps its members define and achieve their financial dreams. Mountain America provides consumers and businesses with a variety of convenient, flexible products and services, as well as sound, timely advice. Members enjoy access to secure, cutting-edge mobile banking technology, over 100 branches across six states; and more than 50,000 surcharge-free ATMs. Mountain Americaguiding you forward. Learn more at macu.com.

Contact: [email protected], macu.com/newsroom

Source: Mountain America Credit Union
Hotels and homes destroyed, impassable roads and thousands of people cut off. This is how Acapulco, in the Mexican state of Guerrero, has been left after the passage of Hurricane Otis, the most powerful Pacific storm to make landfall on Mexican territory in the last 30 years. The cyclone, which in 12 hours went from a tropical storm to a category 5 hurricane, the highest possible classification, has left the popular tourist destination resembling a war zone with uprooted trees, debris, roofs torn off and buildings without walls. Neither the National Meteorological Service (SMN) nor local and federal authorities were able to predict the intensity of the hurricane. Scientists were also caught by surprise. The speed with which the cyclone intensified was unusual and forced Mexican authorities to issue an evacuation alert for the area just hours before Otis made landfall.

The SMN warned at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, that the hurricane would reach Acapulco at 6:00 p.m. the following day. However, the storm arrived earlier than expected and devastated the coastal city at 12:25 a.m. Wednesday. Winds of more than 270 kilometers per hour (168 mph) hit the town and the state of Guerrero, one of the poorest in the country, destroying everything in their path. More than 500,000 people were left without electricity, internet and telephone connection in the early hours of the morning and only part of the service has so far been restored. The breakdown of communications has complicated access to the affected areas and there is still no official information on the number of victims and the amount of damage caused, although it is expected that material losses will amount to millions of dollars.

People stand near street stalls damaged by Hurricane Otis in Acapulco, in the Mexican State of Guerrero, October 25, 2023. HENRY ROMERO (REUTERS)

The unusual power of the hurricane has attracted the attention of the scientific community, which links the devastating power of Otis to the El Nino season, a phenomenon associated with changes in the atmosphere and the fluctuation of water temperature in the Pacific. There is a hypothesis that it could be related to the rise in ocean temperature, which does not mean that there are more hurricanes, but it does mean that when there is one, the cyclone accelerates its formation by taking on more energy under these conditions, explains Claudia Rojas of the Department of Process Engineering and Hydraulics of the Metropolitan Autonomous University (UAM).

There are those who point to a relationship between climate change and the strength of hurricanes, although the scientific community is still investigating the matter. El Nino is inducing these cyclones to reach high categories. However, it is difficult to attribute the responsibility for Hurricane Otis to climate change, says Christian Dominguez, a researcher at the Institute of Atmospheric Sciences of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). What is known on a global scale is that with climate change there will be fewer hurricanes in the Pacific, but they will be more intense, he adds. With the information we currently have, it is not so clear that the intensity has to do with climate change because there are not so many historical records, although we have not ruled it out.

After making landfall, Otis was downgraded to a tropical storm after depositing heavy rainfall in several states in central and southern Mexico. However, the threat has not yet passed. The risk is not only posed by the strength of the winds. There are more dangers that such a phenomenon can entail, such as landslides and the flooding of rivers and streams, says Dominguez. In Acapulco, some 20,000 people live in areas susceptible to flooding or landslides. The hurricane season in the Pacific begins around May 15 and ends around November 30, as such Guerrero could still experience the consequences of other cyclones, says Rojas. Research work has shown that after a prolonged drought, very intense rainfall events occur, as is the case with tropical cyclones that can reach these [high] categories.

The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) reported that 58 high voltage structures collapsed in the State of Guerrero. Comision Federal de Electricidad (EFE)

Otis is not the first hurricane in recent years to strengthen so rapidly. In 2015, Tropical Storm Patricia escalated to a Category 5 hurricane in 10 hours. The difference with the current phenomenon was that it did so offshore, and authorities in the states of Jalisco, Colima and Nayarit were able to evacuate 50,000 people before it made landfall. The storm, catalogued by the SMN as extremely dangerous and by the media as the largest in history, quickly lost strength after making landfall in Mexican territory thanks to the mountainous system of the Sierra Madre Occidental, which eroded the outer ring of the cyclone and prevented greater damage and devastation. Guerrero, in this case, did not have the same luck.

Acapulco International Airport, which receives millions of tourists every year, has been completely flooded and suffered serious damage to its infrastructure, forcing the suspension of all flights. The main highways are also closed, preventing communications with Mexico City. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador had ordered his Security Cabinet to go to the affected area, but on seeing the seriousness of the situation, he decided to personally supervise the rescue efforts himself. The Mexican army has initiated an emergency protocol and 37 shelters have been set up throughout the state for victims.

Members of the security forces in convoy on a highway near the entrance to Acapulco after Hurricane Otis made landfall. HENRY ROMERO (REUTERS)

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
Toronto, Ontario, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Climate change and industrial pollution have pushed Ontarios environment to the brink. Premiering Thursday, November 2 at 9 pm, the new season of TVO Original series The Water Brothers offers six episodes that reveal the current state of Ontarios peatlands, wetlands, waterways and soil. The series will air Thursdays on TVO and stream across Canada on TVO.org, YouTube and TVO Today apps.

Season five of this eco-adventure documentary series joins Alex and Tyler Mifflin as they seek solutions for Ontarios most pressing environmental challenges. Dedicated conservationists and concerned Ontarians also offer insights to support the protection of humanitys most precious resource.

The Water Brothers is a compelling reminder of why we need to do more to protect our environment, says John Ferri, VP of Programming and Content at TVO. Season fives focus on Ontario allows viewers to discover the many fascinating solutions available to us here at home, from nature-based innovations to preventative policy measures.

We couldnt be more excited to launch season five after spending the last two years exploring all across Ontario and its vast network of diverse ecosystems. It was a privilege to get to know our province so much better and to spend time with dedicated individuals and groups who are working to conserve its countless treasures, says Tyler Mifflin, co-host, director and producer of The Water Brothers.

Filming this season has been an incredible adventure, from going into one of the deepest mines on Earth, drinking the worlds cleanest water, to journeying to the shores of Hudson Bay surrounded by polar bears and giant herds of caribou. These investigations have emphasized to us how the water challenges we face in Ontario, and the solutions being developed here, are deeply interconnected to the entire planet, says co-host, director and producer Alex Mifflin.

Subscribe to the TVO Today Docs YouTube channel and download the TVO Today app to watch new episodes of The Water Brothers as they become available:

The Breathing Lands (Nov. 2) | The brothers venture to Ontarios far north to witness how peatlands store carbon and water and why these biodiverse wetlands need more protection.

(Nov. 2) | The brothers venture to Ontarios far north to witness how peatlands store carbon and water and why these biodiverse wetlands need more protection. The Forever Chemicals (Nov. 9) | A group of toxic chemicals known as PFAs are responsible for water-resistant properties of everyday products we use. But how dangerous are these forever chemicals?

(Nov. 9) | A group of toxic chemicals known as PFAs are responsible for water-resistant properties of everyday products we use. But how dangerous are these forever chemicals? Paving Over Paradise (Nov. 16) | About three quarters of southern Ontarios wetlands are gone. How do we restore these vital habitats that help combat the effects of climate change?

(Nov. 16) | About three quarters of southern Ontarios wetlands are gone. How do we restore these vital habitats that help combat the effects of climate change? Save Our Soils (Nov. 23) | Soil is the foundation of our food supply, but its health is rapidly degrading around the world. The brothers meet with scientists and farmers to discuss possible solutions.

(Nov. 23) | Soil is the foundation of our food supply, but its health is rapidly degrading around the world. The brothers meet with scientists and farmers to discuss possible solutions. The Great Plastic Lakes (Nov. 30) | Over 10 million kilos of plastic enters the Great Lakes each year. It directly impacts wildlife and the 40 million people who rely on this water. This episode explores possible solutions.

(Nov. 30) | Over 10 million kilos of plastic enters the Great Lakes each year. It directly impacts wildlife and the 40 million people who rely on this water. This episode explores possible solutions. The Worlds Oldest Water (available Dec. 7) | Scientists have discovered the oldest water on Earth inside a northern Ontario mine. At over 2 billion years old, what secrets does this ancient water contain?

Sign up for the TVO Today Docs Newsletter and follow @TVODocs on Twitter and Instagram for up-to-date programming information.

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ABOUT TVO MEDIA EDUCATION GROUPTVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through video, audio, games, courses, newsletters and articles, were investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. Funded primarily by the Province of Ontario, TVO is a registered charity supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. Visit TVO.me for more information. Stream TVO on your favourite device.

Media contact: Genevieve Grant, [email protected]

Social: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube

Attachment

Genevieve Grant TVO [email protected]

Source: TVO
IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nymox Pharmaceutical Corporation [OTC Markets  NYMXF] (the Company) is pleased to announce that the Company's recent submission of Fexapotide Triflutate for the treatment of symptoms of benign prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia, referred to as BPH) has been validated by the U.K. authorities, at U.K. Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The formal review process has now started. The trademarked name for the new product is NYMOZARFEX (TM). The Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) was submitted September 25, 2023. The new submission includes England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The Company will continue to provide further information, including other expected submissions, when the information becomes available.



Paul Averback MD, CEO of Nymox said, "We are extremely pleased that the Nymozarfex (TM) MAA submission was accepted for review by the UK authorities. We again thank our long-term supporters and all team members and expert collaborators from many disciplines for their solid contributions and steady efforts involved in the ongoing process. There is a great need for men throughout the world to have access to this treatment technology, which is unique. We will continue to provide updates and communications to our valued supporters whenever appropriate. "

About NYMOX

Nymox is in the process of submitting applications for the approval to market the Company's first in class drug NYMOZARFEX (TM) to treat the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is one of the most common conditions affecting middle aged and elderly men throughout the world. BPH can be devastating to men who suffer from the condition. Current treatments are associated with numerous intolerable side effects including sexual problems, such as impotence and retrograde ejaculation. Medications for BPH have been associated with prostate cancer, depression, gynecomastia and other adverse effects. The majority of men stop taking the available medications due to these and other problems. Surgery is often needed for advanced BPH. Surgery is usually effective but it is not without risks, the discomforts of surgery, and BPH surgery has side effects such as permanent retrograde ejaculation for many patients.

Nymox recently reported 10-year follow-up new data on all available patients from its U.S. clinical trial of NYMOZARFEX (TM) for the treatment of low grade localized prostate cancer. The available long-term data newly assessed, confirmed that all available data shows that the NYMOZARFEX (TM) treatment had important and statistically significant benefit for reducing the long-term progression of these prostate cancers.

About NYMOZARFEX (TM) (Fexapotide)

NYMOZARFEX (TM) is given in an in-office procedure that is administered in a few minutes without need of anesthesia or analgesia. The drug has been tested in clinical trials involving overall more than 1750 patients with over 1600 injections administered including over 1200 NYMOZARFEX (TM) administrations. NYMOZARFEX (TM) has led to significant long-term improvements and has shown an excellent safety profile without the side effects normally associated with existing BPH treatments.

For more information please contact [email protected] or 800-936-9669.

Forward Looking Statements

To the extent that statements contained in this press release are not descriptions of historical facts regarding Nymox, they are forward-looking statements reflecting the current beliefs and expectations of management made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the need for new options to treat BPH and prostate cancer, the potential of Fexapotide to treat BPH and prostate cancer and the estimated timing of further developments for Fexapotide. Such forward-looking statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our clinical development program, future results, performance or achievements to differ significantly from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, among others, the uncertainties inherent in the clinical drug development process, including the regulatory approval process, the timing of Nymox's regulatory filings, Nymox's substantial dependence on Fexapotide, Nymox's commercialization plans and efforts and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of Fexapotide. Nymox undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward looking statements. For a further description of the risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Nymox in general, see Nymox's current and future reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022, and its Quarterly Reports.
Quadient and GLS France Announce a Major Partnership

Partnership gives GLS privileged access to Quadients French open locker network

Quadient (Euronext Paris: QDT), a leading customer communication management solutions provider and a major global parcel locker operator, and GLS France, one of Europe's leading express parcel delivery providers, are proud to announce the signature of a significant agreement. The carrier, which handles over 860 million parcels across the markets every year at a group level, can now draw on the open Parcel Pending by Quadient network currently being rolled out in France to offer more delivery modes and locations to its 6,000 customers in France.



Under the new agreement, as soon as November, GLS will have access to the full extent of Quadients open network in France to deliver its parcels, while also benefitting from exclusive reserved space on a specific number of sites in the carrier's priority geographical areas. GLS France plans to offer its customers up to 1,500 Quadient drop-off and pick-up points by 2025, including those from the recently announced Auchan partnership.

"This strategic partnership with Quadient embodies our shared vision of innovation and excellence in parcel delivery. In opting for Quadient, we have chosen a partner whose independent locker network and complementary services adds to our activities, increasing our overall delivery efficiency. This collaboration enables us to meet the growing demands of our customers, shippers and recipients alike, who are looking for more convenient, 24/7 delivery solutions. GLS France now offers a complete range of delivery services covering all of France, from retail stores, next-door neighbors, and now automated lockers. This alliance opens promising prospects for GLS, not only in France but also in other parts of Europe," emphasizes Nicolas Robert, Managing Director of GLS France.

"We're delighted to be working with GLS France and to be part of their transformation project initiated over the past two years," explains Katia Bourgeais Cremel, European Director for Parcel Locker Solutions at Quadient. "With a third major carrier now joining our network in France, we are accelerating our mission to modernize delivery services by offering a true multicarrier pickup and drop-off network. We deeply believe in our vision and business model, with a shared infrastructure available to the entire e-commerce logistics ecosystem, providing greater choice and convenience for consumers and creating economies of scale in terms of costs and use of urban space. We are honored by GLS France's confidence, and firmly believe that this new partnership will greatly accelerate consumer adoption and widespread the use of smart locker delivery in France."

Quadient operates nearly 19,000 smart parcel lockers worldwide and is committed to rapidly deploying an open locker network in France and the UK. The company is building partnerships with key players such as Auchan, real estate company Galimmo, and major parcel delivery companies. Quadients unique, agnostic and shared network is helping to improve the efficiency, reliability and environmental footprint of last-mile delivery in France.

About Quadient

Quadient is the driving force behind the worlds most meaningful customer experiences. By focusing on three key solution areas, Intelligent Communication Automation, Parcel Locker Solutions and Mail-Related Solutions, Quadient helps simplify the connection between people and what matters. Quadient supports hundreds of thousands of customers worldwide in their quest to create relevant, personalized connections and achieve customer experience excellence. Quadient is listed in compartment B of Euronext Paris (QDT) and is part of the CAC Mid & Small and EnterNext Tech 40 indices. For more information about Quadient, visit www.quadient.com.

About GLS

GLS Group is one of the largest self-reliant parcel services providers in Europe, with a strong local presence in almost all countries across the continent. It also operates through wholly-owned subsidiaries in Canada and on the USAs West Coast within one GLS network. This allows GLS to seamlessly connect its customers and communities with millions of parcels and stories every day. GLS is proactive regarding network management, connecting its markets flexibly and agilely to respond to their fast-changing and dynamic nature. The company takes pride in providing its customers across about 40 countries with high-quality service that best suits their needs. The GLS network consists of over 120 hubs and more than 1,600 depots, supported by approximately 35,000 final-mile delivery vehicles, 4,700 long-distance trucks and more than 42,000 Parcel shops. This offers network resilience, superior flexibility, and extended reach. In 2022/23, GLS generated record revenues of 5.4 billion euros and delivered 862 million parcels across the markets. For more information, visit gls-group.com.

Contacts

Joe Scolaro, Quadient

Global Press Relations Manager

+1 203-301-3673

[email protected]

Sandy Armstrong, Sterling Kilgore

Director of Media & Communications

+1-630-699-8979

[email protected]

Attachments
BALTIMORE, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- U.S. Small Business Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman participated in multiple events and panels at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundations 52nd Annual Legislative Conference to discuss how the SBA and Biden-Harris Administration are promoting equity across the small business landscape and supporting Black entrepreneurs.

Before the start of the conference, Administrator Guzman joined Axios reporter Eugene Scott for a fireside chat to unpack the unique challenges facing minority-owned small businesses, highlight how the SBA is prioritizing equity across SBA programs, and discuss outreach to Black communities to increase awareness of SBA opportunities.

Last Thursday, Administrator Guzman participated in a Procurement Forum where she further discussed how the SBA has significantly increased opportunities for Black-owned small businesses in government contracting and is on track to meet the Biden-Harris Administrations goal of 15% of prime government contracts going to small disadvantaged businesses by 2025.

Later in the day, she joined Congressional Black Caucus Chair Steven Horsford (NV-04) at a press conference to announce that the SBA has achieved record lending rates to Black-owned small businesses under the Biden-Harris Administration. Since 2020, the number of loans, total loan dollars, and overall share of loans going to Black-owned businesses have all more than doubled since 2020.

On Friday, Administrator Guzman joined Congressman Glenn Ivey (MD-04) for a panel to discuss the small business impacts of the SCOTUS decision on affirmative action. During the panel, she discussed how the Ultima Servs. Corp. v. Dept of Ag. court case has impacted the SBAs 8(a) business development program and what guidance the SBA is offering 8(a) participant firms in light of a recent injunction.

For follow-up interview requests for Administrator Guzman, please contact Rebecca Galanti at [email protected].

### About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

Christine Saah Nazer U.S. Small Business Administration 202-756-0304 [email protected]

Source: U.S. Small Business Administration
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Purcell & Lefkowitz LLP, a class action law firm dedicated to representing shareholders nationwide, is investigating a potential breach of fiduciary duty claim involving the board of directors of Electriq Power Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ELIQ).



If you are a shareholder of Electriq Power Holdings, Inc. and want to receive additional information and protect your investments free of charge, please visit us at: https://pjlfirm.com/electriq-power-holdings-inc/

You may also contact Robert H. Lefkowitz, Esq. either via email at [email protected] or by telephone at 212-725-1000. One of our attorneys will personally speak with you about the case at no cost or obligation.

Purcell & Lefkowitz LLP is a law firm exclusively committed to representing shareholders nationwide who are victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty and other types of corporate misconduct. For more information about the firm and its attorneys, please visit https://pjlfirm.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
ATLANTA, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Speedemissions, Inc. (OTC Expert Market: SPMI) (the Company) a retail brand offering consumers automobile emissions testing and safety inspections, announced its unaudited financial results for the nine-month period ending September 30, 2023.

With the closing of our 2023 third quarter, we are pleased to report that the Company continues to focus on building financial strength as it has again posted positive EBITDA1 and net income which demonstrates the noteworthy progress made in the overall management and operation of our business. These gains are most impressive as they have been achieved in an environment of uncertainty caused by the post COVID-19 pandemic employment challenge. Our business has been affected, as we have faced unparallel issues with turnover and recruiting. To that end we have increased hourly pay rates and introduced sign-on bonuses to stabilize the matter, stated Rich Parlontieri, Speedemissions, President and CEO.

What is important to note is that our employees continue to work diligently and tirelessly in providing our over 150,000 customers with quality customer service. The improvement in our financials is also allowing us the tactical flexibility to begin seeking and evaluating strategic growth opportunities with which we can strengthen and expand the business, not only organically, but also with potential acquisition candidates, added Parlontieri.

Third Quarter End September 30, 2023 Unaudited Financial Highlights

Revenue for the period ended September 30, 2023, decreased $44,582 or 4.5% to $953,222, versus $997,808 for the same period in 2022. This reduction is directly attributed to staffing issues in both Atlanta and St, Louis, and to a decline in our mobile unit division which services the used car industry.

Store operating expenses dropped $11,079 or 2.1% with general and administration expenses up $19,599 or 8.8%, primarily due to accounting and consulting fees.

The Companys net income for the third quarter was $40,099 as compared to net income of $13,295 for the same period ended September 30, 2022. The net income increase was attributed to a $75,000 expense settlement with a landlord from 2014 and recorded in the third quarter of 2022.

Nine Months End September 30, 2023 Unaudited Financial Highlights

Total revenue for nine months ended September 30, 2023 has increased 2.8% or $81,041 to $2,943,523 from $2,862,482 as compared to the same period in 2022.

Store operating expenses increased $94,087 or 6.5% compared to same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to increases in employee compensation, station equipment rent, and business insurance.

General and administrative expenses increased $98,122 or 19.3% versus corresponding period 2022. This increase is related to accounting, legal, consulting, and shareholders/directors expenses.

Net Income was $242,625, compared to $293,548, a 20.9% decline versus same period 2022. The operating expenses noted above resulted in the decrease in net income.

(1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortization and is commonly referred to evaluate a companys operating performance. Consequently, EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for net income and loss presented in accordance with GAAP.

ABOUT SPEEDEMISSIONS, INC. Speedemissions, Inc., based in Atlanta, Georgia, offers our customers quick and efficient emission testing and/or safety inspection as required by law. The company is in the Atlanta, GA. and St. Louis, MO. markets. For more information, visit: www.speedemissions.com.

For more information:

Speedemissions, Inc. Investor Relations [email protected]

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS On October 4, 2017, Speedemissions, Inc. Filed a Form 15 with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, thereby ceasing to file Quarterly (10Q) and Annual (10K) reports. Certain statements contained in this news release regarding matters that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements. Because such forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, uncertainties pertaining to market acceptance for Speedemissions' products and services, its ability to succeed in increasing revenues in the near term to attain profitable operations and generate sufficient cash flow from operations, the effect of new competitors in its markets, its integration of acquired businesses, and other risk factors identified from time to time in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Speedemissions 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K, 2017 Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and 2017, reports on Form 8-K, which are available at the SECs website www.sec.gov. Other factors not currently anticipated may also materially and adversely affect Speedemissions results of operations, financial position, and cash flows. There can be no assurance that future results will meet expectations. While Speedemissions believes that the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, the reader should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statement. In addition, these statements speak only as of the date made. Speedemissions does not undertake, and expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

Source: Speedemissions, Inc.
Dallas, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dickeys Barbecue Pit is celebrating Halloween this year by offering their guests some Legit. Texas. Barbecue. deals.

Before you head out trick or treating, stop by your local Dickeys Barbecue Pit and fuel up on some pit-smoked barbecue! On Tuesday, October 31st, the Texas-style barbecue brand is offering any guest dressed in their Halloween costume in store, a free Big Yellow Cup with a minimum purchase of $12.

The spooky fun doesnt stop there. Dickeys is also offering $5 off all Packs on October. 31st. To redeem this special offer, simply order curbside pickup or carryout on the Dickeys App or online at dickeys.com and use the code 5OFFPACKS during checkout.

Halloween has always been one of our favorite holidays here at Dickeys, said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Thats why were excited to offer barbecue fans across the country a couple of family-friendly specials this holiday. We hope everyone will join us for a safe and smokin Halloween.

This offer is valid for dine-in only at participating locations.

For more about Dickeys, follow Dickeys Barbecue Pit on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Download the Dickeys Barbecue Pit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

For Dickeys Virtual Concepts follow Wing Boss on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok; Trailer Birds on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok; and Big Deal Burger on Facebook, Instagram and Tik Tok.

About Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc., the worlds largest barbecue concept, was founded in 1941 by the Dickey family. For the past 82 years, Dickeys Barbecue Pit has served millions of guests in 41 states Legit. Texas. Barbecue. At Dickeys, all our barbecued meats are smoked onsite in a hickory wood burning pit. Dickeys proudly believes theres no shortcut to true barbecue and its why our name isnt BBQ. The Dallas-based, family-run barbecue franchise offers eight slow-smoked meats and 12 wholesome sides with No B.S. (Bad Stuff) included. Dickeys Barbecue has over 500 restaurants across the United States.

Dickeys was named to Newsweeks 2022 Americas Favorite Restaurant Chains list and USA Today 2021 readers choice awards. Dickeys won first place on Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list, been named a Top 500 Franchise by Entrepreneur and named to Hospitality Technologys Industry Heroes list. Led by CEO Laura Rea Dickey, who was named among the countrys 50 most influential women in foodservice in Nations Restaurant News, was recognized by Fast Casuals Top 100 Movers and Shakers list and honored by Dallas Business Journal. Dickeys Barbecue Pit has also been recognized by Fox News, Forbes Magazine, Franchise Times, The Dallas Morning News, The Wall Street Journal, People Magazine and QSR Magazine. Dickeys Barbecue is part of Dickeys Restaurant Brands which has more than 700 restaurants nationwide including brands Wing Boss, Trailer Birds, Big Deal Burger and bbqathome.com. DRB is led by CEO Roland Dickey Jr. For more information, visit dickeys.com.

# # #

Attachment

Shannon Santos Dickey's Barbecue Pit [email protected]

Source: Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants
DALLAS, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- UPAY Inc. (UPAY or the Corporation or the Company) (OTCQB: UPYY), a leading corporation in the fintech sector, is pleased to announce the election of Mr. Jaco Folscher, CEO of Rent Pay (Pty) Ltd ACPAS, a South African subsidiary of UPAY, to the board of Directors of Microfinance South Africa (MFSA). (Microfinance is a type of banking service provided to low-income individuals or groups who otherwise wouldn't have access to financial services.)

Jaco Folscher is widely recognized as a highly respected professional in the specialized domain of microfinance. His expertise in this field is emblematic of his deep understanding and significant contributions to the microfinance sector, particularly in the realm of software solutions. His extensive experience and dedication make him a valuable addition to the MFSA Board.

As the CEO of ACPAS, a subsidiary of UPAY, Mr. Folscher has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovative financial solutions and empowering individuals and communities through responsible and sustainable microfinance practices.

"I am deeply honoured and excited to join Microfinance South Africa's board," said Jaco Folscher. "I look forward to working collaboratively with the board and the entire MFSA team to advance our shared mission of making financial inclusion a reality for all South Africans."

The MFSA Board plays a vital role in shaping strategic direction, policy development and upholding the highest industry standards. Jaco Folscher's appointment underscores UPAY Inc.'s commitment to being at the forefront of advocating for excellence in microfinance.

UPAY Inc. is confident that Mr. Folscher's insights and dedication will have a meaningful impact on the ongoing initiatives of the MFSA and the broader microfinance landscape in South Africa.

About Microfinance South Africa (MFSA)

Microfinance South Africa (MFSA) is a non-profit organization with a mission to empower individuals and communities through inclusive financial services. They are also the voice of reputable micro financiers and envision a South Africa where financial inclusion is accessible to all, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds.

MFSA works to advance responsible microfinance through advocacy, capacity building, research and networking, ensuring marginalized individuals and small businesses have the resources to thrive.

MFSA invites microfinance institutions, investors, policymakers and social impact enthusiasts to partner with them and create a more equitable and prosperous South Africa through responsible microfinance.

For more information about Microfinance South Africa and its mission, please visit www.mfsa.net.

About UPAY Inc.

UPAY Inc. is a forward-thinking US public company with fintech and other industry-related holdings, dedicated to providing cutting-edge financial solutions to its clients. With a focus on innovation and user-centric design, UPAY remains on the bleeding edge of innovation in the technology sector.

For media inquiries, please contact:

CONTACT INFORMATION

UPAY INC.

[email protected]

CAUTIONARY DISCLOSURE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The information contained in this publication does not constitute an offer to sell or solicit an offer to buy securities of UPAY, Inc. (the Company). This publication contains forward-looking statements, which are not guarantees of future performance and may involve subjective judgment and analysis. The information provided herein is believed to be accurate and reliable, however the Company makes no representations or warranties, expressed or implied, as to its accuracy or completeness. The Company has no obligation to provide the recipient with additional updated information. No information in this publication should be interpreted as any indication whatsoever of the Companys future revenues, results of operations, or stock price.
Oakwood, GA, Oct. 25, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wayne-Sanderson Farms today announced that an Illinois jury unanimously ruled in its favor in a trial against certain Plaintiffs which accused Sanderson Farms of participating in a supply reduction conspiracy with other producers in the broiler industry between 2008 and 2012. The evidence presented at trial proved, contrary to the Plaintiffs allegations, that no such conspiracy ever existed and Sanderson did not collude with its competitors to reduce the supply of chicken.

Jeremy Kilburn, Chief Legal & Compliance Officer at Wayne-Sanderson Farms, commented:

We are pleased that, after a full and fair trial, the jury has rendered a unanimous verdict in favor of Sanderson Farms on all counts. The evidence presented over the last six weeks is clear: Sanderson Farms and the broiler industry did not conspire to produce less chicken. To the contrary, Sanderson Farms built more plants than the rest of the industry combined and grew more than any of its competitors before, during and after the period of Plaintiffs alleged supply reduction conspiracy. In a time of industry crisis, during which several major chicken producers went bankrupt, Sanderson Farms made independent business decisions to reduce its lossesas any rational business would. Todays verdict vindicates Sanderson Farms and shows that the Plaintiffs case ignored fundamental truths about Sanderson Farms and the nature of the chicken industry.

As an independent company, Sanderson Farms was steadfast in its position that its conduct had always been lawful. The combined team of Wayne-Sanderson Farms fully shares in that view. The evidence at trial proved that Sanderson Farms did not conspire with anyone to produce less chicken, and that Sanderson Farms, under its former leadership, acted lawfully. Wayne Farms past conduct was not at issue in this trial, having prevailed on summary judgment in June.

Wayne-Sanderson Farms is pleased to have been able to make its case in court and thanks the jury for their time and thoughtfulness in evaluating this case.

About Wayne-Sanderson Farms

Wayne-Sanderson Farms is an industry leader and the nations third-largest poultry producer, serving customers, consumers and communities with integrity, leadership and responsible farm, workplace and business practices. With a diverse portfolio of products, a strong operating culture and an industry-leading workforce of more than 26,000 people, Wayne-Sanderson Farms owns and operates 23 fresh and further-processing facilities across Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and Texas. Wayne-Sanderson Farms produces affordable, high-quality poultry products for retail, foodservice, restaurant, industrial and institutional segments under the brand names of SANDERSON FARMS fresh chicken; COVINGTON FARMS fresh and frozen chicken; WAYNE FARMS fresh and prepared chicken; PLATINUM HARVEST premium fresh chicken; CHEFS CRAFT gourmet chicken; and NAKED TRUTH premium chicken. For more information, visit our website at http://www.waynesandersonfarms.com

Hilary Burroughs Wayne-Sanderson Farms 601-426-1312 [email protected] Frank Singleton Wayne-Sanderson Farms 16783164237 [email protected]

Source: Wayne-Sanderson Farms
The visit, which Zefiro co-hosted with its subsidiary oil and gas well plugging operation Plants & Goodwin, highlighted both the Companys ongoing well-plugging efforts and the public-private sector partnerships needed to help address this nationwide problem

SOUTH WALES, N.Y., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ZEFIRO METHANE CORP. (the Company, Zefiro, or ZEFI) which works to reduce methane emissions by plugging orphaned oil and gas wells across the U.S., yesterday co-hosted U.S. Department of the Interior ("DOI") Infrastructure Coordinator Winnie Stachelberg and several officials from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) at an oil well the Company helped successfully plug in South Wales, New York. The visit, which Zefiro co-hosted with oil and gas well plugging operator and Zefiro subsidiary Plants & Goodwin (P&G), underscored the Companys commitment to working with federal and state government partners, along with a variety of key organizations throughout the energy sector, to scale their operations in a manner that can help address this nationwide problem.



According to the latest projections, there are more than four million abandoned wells scattered across 26 U.S. states, including over approximately 23,000 unplugged sites in New York state alone. These unplugged wells often leak methane gas that can be up to 84 times more hazardous than carbon dioxide emissions and have the potential to harm surrounding farmland, drinking water sources, and air quality.





October 25, 2023: Zefiro Founder and Executive Chairman Talal Debs is pictured with DOI Infrastructure Coordinator Winnie Stachelberg at the site of an oil well successfully plugged by Zefiro and P&G in South Wales, NY

Readers using news aggregation services may be unable to view the media above. Please access the Investors section of the Companys website for a version of this press release containing all published media.

For too long, government agencies and corporate entities seeking to stem the nationwide proliferation of abandoned oil and gas wells have not had access to the resources needed to address this legacy issue, said Talal Debs, Founder and Executive Chairman, Zefiro Methane Corp. The Department of the Interior and the New York State government have shown their resolve to help end this noxious cycle, and our team at Zefiro will continue to do our part to foster the public-private projects needed to get the job done for all affected communities in the Empire State and across the country.

From the woods of Appalachia to the swamps of Louisiana, hardworking crews that have the unique capacity to identify and plug orphaned oil and gas wells are calling out for the tools needed to confront this public health threat, said Luke Plants, Chief Executive Officer, Plants & Goodwin. This example of federal, state, and industry stakeholders coming together to plug this hazardous well can be replicated at countless sites throughout the nation, and as a third-generation oil well plugger, I could not be more excited to keep building these kinds of partnerships that are already producing meaningful results.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Company,

ZEFIRO METHANE CORP.

Curt Hopkins

Curt Hopkins, CEO

For further information, please contact:

Zefiro Investor Relations

1 (800) 274-ZEFI (274-9334)

[email protected]

For media inquiries, please contact:

Rich Myers - Profile Advisors (New York)

[email protected]

(347) 774-1125

About Zefiro Methane Corp.

Zefiro develops methodologies to reduce methane emissions by plugging orphaned and abandoned oil/gas wells, while originating carbon offsets. Under executive leadership to include the former carbon market team at J.P. Morgan, Zefiro actively deploys crews to decommission wells throughout the United States. With unprecedented global demand for carbon offsets as corporations and institutions work towards net-zero targets, Zefiro is strategically aligning with industry leaders for a greener future.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information is often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as seeks, believes, plans, expects, intends, estimates, anticipates and statements that an event or result may, will, should, could or might occur or be achieved and other similar expressions. Forward-looking information in this press release includes statements regarding the Company, the Companys business, the industry in which the Company operates, the Companys opportunities, strategies, competition, expected activities and expenditures as the Company pursues its business plan, the adequacy of the Companys available cash resources and other statements about future events or results. The forward-looking information reflects managements current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking information. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed timeframes or at all. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include: (i) adverse general market and economic conditions; (ii) changes to and price and volume volatility in the carbon market; (iii) changes to the regulatory landscape and global policies applicable to the Company's business; and (iv) other factors beyond the control of the Company. The Company operates in a rapidly evolving environment where technologies are in the early stage of adoption. New risk factors emerge from time to time, and it is impossible for the Companys management to predict all risk factors, nor can the Company assess the impact of all factors on Companys business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ from those contained in any forward-looking information. The forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions, including assumptions regarding general market conditions, the availability of financing for proposed transactions and programs on reasonable terms, and the ability of outside service providers to deliver services in a satisfactory and timely manner. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4a8bc74b-b677-4414-bcb7-d0dc1246e962
Early on Thursday the Israeli army carried out its largest ground incursion into Gaza since the Hamas attack of October 7, the military reported. It was not the invasion to destroy the military and governing capabilities of Hamas that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been announcing for days, and which he promised on Wednesday will arrive in due course. But it is the first time in 20 days that tanks and infantry have penetrated for hours into the Gaza Strip to eliminate terrorists, neutralize threats and deactivate explosives, as explained by the military spokesman, Daniel Hagari, in his daily report to the media. The Israeli army has released videos of the targeted raid that took place in northern Gaza. Armored vehicles can be seen crossing the same concrete barrier that hundreds of Hamas members crossed in the surprise attack of October 7 that left 1,400 Israeli citizens dead, mainly civilians, and triggered the current crisis.

The overnight raid was aimed, in Hagaris words, at preparing the next stages of combat, an effort that runs parallel to an intense campaign of airstrikes that are killing hundreds of Palestinians daily, 68% of them women and children, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health of the Gaza Strip, and deepening the humanitarian crisis. Due to lack of fuel for their generators, hospitals have begun to ration electricity to use it only for emergency events. And the humanitarian aid, already considered meager when it began flowing from Egypt last Saturday, is becoming increasingly scarce. In the last 48 hours, only 20 trucks carrying water, food and medicine have been allowed through the Rafah border crossing, the only one that is open, linking the Palestinian enclave with Egypt. That is to say, 2% of those that did it every day before the war.

None of these trucks carried fuel, which Israel and the United States refuse to allow through. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) warned on Thursday that the next 24 hours are very important because, if fuel does not arrive, they will be forced to reduce, and in some cases stop, their humanitarian operations throughout Gaza. Of the more than one million people who have left their homes due to the bombings, 613,000 are taking refuge in UNRWA facilities, such as schools and hospitals. The agency has also lost 38 workers in the air raids. Israel will not allow fuel to enter Gaza, arguing that Hamas, the Islamist armed group that has ruled the Strip since 2007, is using it for its operational needs, as the military spokesman said.

In recent days, Netanyahu has been forced to emphasize that he has not backed down on the invasion, and that the government and the Armed Forces are going hand in hand. We are preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many. I will also not elaborate on the various calculations we are making, which the public is mostly unaware of and that is how things should be, he said on Wednesday in a televised speech to the nation, after days of leaks to the national media about army discontent with delays in launching an operation that has been ready for days.

In public, Israel and the United States insist that only the former is making the decisions on timing and actions. American participation is, they say, limited to providing aid (such as aircraft carriers deployed in the Mediterranean) so that Israel will not be alone to defend itself, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said shortly after the Hamas attack. President Joe Biden has reiterated Israels right and responsibility to defend its citizens from terrorism and to do so in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law. The White House statement comes in the midst of controversy over Bidens questioning of the Palestinian death toll figures released by the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in Gaza.

Behind closed doors, Americans are, however, concerned about Israels ability to deal with the regional war that could be triggered by the invasion. In fact, its Navy reported the interception of a volley of missiles and drones launched from Yemen against Israel, apparently by the Houthi militias, which Iran backs.

It is, according to various analysts, one of the main factors delaying the invasion. But Washington not only wants to help its ally before it goes all-out on Gaza. The U.S. government also aims to bring negotiations to a successful conclusion, with the mediation of Qatar, to free the at least 224 hostages remaining in Gaza, some of whom are also U.S. nationals. Since last weekend, Hamas has freed four: an American mother and daughter, and two elderly Israeli women. Qatar is currently working on a much larger package of around 50 hostages with foreign passports.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - ALX Resources Corp. (TSXV: AL) (FSE: 6LLN) (OTC: ALXEF) ("ALX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the remobilization of its lithium exploration crew to the Volta sub-project area ("Volta") of the Hydra Lithium Project ("Hydra") located in the Eeyou Istchee-James Bay region of Quebec, Canada. Hydra is the subject of a 50%-50% joint venture between ALX and Forrestania Resources Limited of West Perth, Australia ("Forrestania", ASX: FRS) formed to explore for lithium-cesium-tantalum ("LCT") bearing pegmatites, with ALX as operator.

2023 Hydra Exploration Summary

Prospecting at Hydra has been subjected to several delays and restrictions since work began in early June 2023. The initial program was suspended after only four days due to forest fires and could not be restarted until early September 2023. The second phase of exploration was also suspended on September 15, 2023 due to the onset of moose hunting season by the Cree Nation of Wemindji, which lasted until October 15, 2023.

With winter weather fast approaching, ALX made the decision to return to the James Bay region in the time remaining, since Volta had received only limited exploration in 2022 and was not accessible to ALX this season due to a lack of accommodations for its geological personnel.

In early September 2023, ALX carried out an airborne Light Detection And Ranging ("LiDAR") and orthophoto survey at Volta to improve the quality of the imagery used for pegmatite exploration. LiDAR can provide detailed and high-resolution topographical information from the analysis of laser pulses emitted from the sensor and the subsequent return signal. A sample of the better topographical definition is observed in the images below: (Left) Orthophoto aerial view of Volta and (Right) LiDAR image of the same scene with vegetation removed, where fault structures are clearly visible.





Figure 1



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3046/185289_graphic.jpg

The helicopter-assisted prospecting work at Volta is aided by remote sensing studies optimized for pegmatite detection. Surface mapping and sampling is planned to continue for up to a week, or for as long as weather conditions allow. Results will be released upon their receipt, compilation and interpretation.

About Hydra

Hydra consists of eight sub-projects totaling 29,262 hectares (72,306 acres) known as Volta (4,751 ha.), Echo (5,566 ha.), Nike (2,462 ha.), Sprite (3,437 ha.), Cobra (4,249 ha.), Viper (1,280 ha.), Python East (3,218 ha.) and Python West (4,298 ha.), located within a fertile lithium exploration district that hosts the James Bay, Rose, Whabouchi and Corvette lithium deposits, and numerous other lithium showings.

The Hydra sub-projects were originally selected for staking based upon the presence of historical lithium, cesium and tantalum lake sediment anomalies and by a review of public-domain geological mapping. The application of remote sensing and artificial intelligence studies for pegmatite detection is ongoing to prioritize target definition for surface prospecting.

ALX - Forrestania lithium projects in the James Bay Region, Sept. 2023

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3046/185289_a81aeb5074d6baa9_003full.jpg

To view maps and more information on Hydra, visit our website at: https://alxresources.com/hydra-lithium/

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

The technical information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Robert Campbell, P.Geo., a consultant to ALX, who is a Qualified Person in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101. Readers are cautioned that mineral deposits or occurrences on adjacent or nearby properties are not indicative of mineral deposits or occurrences on the Company's properties.

About ALX

ALX is based in Vancouver, BC, Canada and its common shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol "AL", on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "6LLN" and in the United States OTC market under the symbol "ALXEF".

ALX's mandate is to provide shareholders with multiple opportunities for discovery by exploring a portfolio of prospective mineral properties in Canada, which include lithium, uranium, nickel-copper-cobalt and gold projects. The Company uses the latest exploration technologies and holds interests in over 220,000 hectares of prospective lands in Saskatchewan, a stable jurisdiction that hosts the highest-grade uranium mines in the world, a producing gold mine, and production from base metals mines, both current and historical.

ALX owns a 50% interest in eight lithium exploration properties staked in 2022-2023 collectively known as the Hydra Lithium Project, located in the James Bay region of northern Quebec, Canada, a 100% interest in the Anchor Lithium Project in Nova Scotia, Canada, and 100% interests in the Crystal Lithium Project and the Reindeer Lithium Project, both located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada.

ALX's uranium holdings in northern Saskatchewan include 100% interests in the Gibbons Creek Uranium Project, the Sabre Uranium Project, the Bradley Uranium Project, and the Javelin and McKenzie Lake Uranium Projects, a 40% interest in the Black Lake Uranium Project (a joint venture with Uranium Energy Corporation and Orano Canada Inc.), and a 20% interest in the Hook-Carter Uranium Project, located within the uranium-rich Patterson Lake Corridor with Denison Mines Corp. (80% interest) as operator of exploration since 2016.

ALX also owns 100% interests in the Firebird Nickel Project (now under option to Rio Tinto Exploration Canada Inc., who can earn up to an 80% interest), the Flying Vee Nickel/Gold and Sceptre Gold projects, and can earn up to an 80% interest in the Alligator Lake Gold Project, all located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada. ALX owns, or can earn, up to 100% interests in the Electra Nickel Project and the Cannon Copper Project located in historic mining districts of Ontario, Canada, the Vixen Gold Project (now under option to First Mining Gold Corp., who can earn up to a 100% interest in two stages), and in the Draco VMS Project in Norway.

For more information about the Company, please visit the ALX corporate website at www.alxresources.com or contact Roger Leschuk, Manager, Corporate Communications at: PH: 604.629.0293 or Toll-Free: 866.629.8368, or by email: [email protected]

On Behalf of the Board of Directors of ALX Resources Corp.

"Warren Stanyer"

Warren Stanyer, CEO and Chairman

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements in this document which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Forward-looking statements in this news release include: ALX's 2023 joint venture exploration plans at the Hydra Lithium Project, and ALX's ability to continue to expend funds at that project. It is important to note that the Company's actual business outcomes and exploration results could differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements. Risks and uncertainties include that ALX may not be able to fully finance exploration on our exploration projects, including drilling; our initial findings at our exploration projects may prove to be unworthy of further expenditures; commodity prices may not support further exploration expenditures; exploration programs may be delayed or changed due to any delays experienced in consultation and engagement activities with First Nations communities and local landowners in the region, and the results of such consultations; and economic, competitive, governmental, societal, public health, weather, environmental and technological factors may affect the Company's operations, markets, products and share price. Even if we explore and develop our projects, and even if lithium, uranium, nickel, copper, gold or other metals or minerals are discovered in quantity, ALX's projects may not be commercially viable. Additional risk factors are discussed in the Company's Management Discussion and Analysis for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2023, which is available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Except as required by law, we will not update these forward-looking statement risk factors.

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/185289
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Excellon Resources Inc. (TSX: EXN) (OTCQB: EXNRF) (FSE: E4X2) ("Excellon" or the "Company") announces that it has rescheduled its annual and special meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting") from November 7, 2023 to November 23, 2023. The Meeting will be held virtually at 2:00 p.m. (Toronto time). The record date for the Meeting continues to be September 25, 2023.

At the Meeting, shareholders will vote on the proposed restructuring of the Company's 5.75% secured convertible debentures announced on September 21, 2023, among other business of the Company. Meeting materials will follow in due course.

Pursuant to the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange, the Company was required to hold its annual meeting of shareholders on or before June 30, 2023. As announced on July 20, 2023 and August 30, 2023, the Toronto Stock Exchange granted the Company extensions to the deadline for holding its annual meeting of shareholders. The Toronto Stock Exchange has granted the Company a further extension to accommodate an updated meeting date.

About Excellon

Excellon's vision is to realize opportunities through the acquisition of advanced development or producing assets with further potential to gain from an experienced management team for the benefit of our employees, communities and shareholders. The Company is advancing a portfolio of silver, base metals and precious metals assets including Kilgore, an advanced gold exploration project in Idaho; and Silver City, a high-grade epithermal silver district in Saxony, Germany with 750 years of mining history and no modern exploration.

Additional details on Excellon's properties are available at www.excellonresources.com.

For Further Information, Please Contact:

Excellon Resources Inc.

Shawn Howarth, President & Chief Executive Officer

[email protected]

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained, referenced or incorporated by reference in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" and "forward looking information" (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. Generally, these forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as: "actively", "advance", "anticipated", "assess", "believe", "cause", "commence", "completion", "conditions", "consideration", "continues", "development", "due course", "expectation", "exploration", "extend", "extension", "flexibility", "focused", "forbearance", "forward", "further", "future", "if", "implement", "liquidity", "looking", "maturity", "may", "negotiations", "occur", "opportunities", "options", "outcome", "outstanding", "potential", "providing", "reach", "restructuring", "risk", "subject to", "to be", "update", "vision", "waive", "when", "will", and "would", or variations of such words, and similar such words, expressions or statements that certain actions, events or results can, could, may, should, to, will, would (or not) be achieved, occur, provide, result, complete or support in the future or which, by their nature, refer to future events. In some cases, forward-looking information may be stated in the present tense, such as in respect of current matters that may be continuing, or that may have a future impact or effect. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding details of the Meeting and the business to be conducted at the Meeting; and Excellon's vision and development of its core asset portfolio; and any updates to the market regarding any of the foregoing. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct, and any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future actions, results or performance. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, estimates, expectations and opinions, which are considered reasonable and represent best judgment based on available facts, as of the date such statements are made. If such assumptions, estimates, expectations and opinions prove to be incorrect, actual and future results may be materially different than expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors which may cause the actual results or performance of the Company to be materially different from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors include, among others, the "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated March 31, 2023 (the "2023 AIF"), and the risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors identified in this news release, the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis, and accompanying financial statements, for the year ended December 31, 2022 and quarters already ended in 2023, and the Company's other applicable public disclosure (collectively, "Company Disclosure"). The foregoing list of risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors is not exhaustive; readers should consult the more complete discussion of the Company's business, financial condition and prospects that is provided in the 2023 AIF and the other Company Disclosure. The forward-looking statements referenced or contained in this news release are expressly qualified by these Cautionary Statements as well as the Cautionary Statements in the other Company Disclosure. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release (or as otherwise expressly specified) and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185369
Baoding, China--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - On October 24th, GWM extended invitations to overseas investors for a unique experience, including test drives of the entire product family, a visit to the technology center in Baoding, and a firsthand look at the rollout of 10,000 GWM HAVAL H6 vehicles destined for the Brazilian market.

This event showcased a range of cutting-edge models, including brand new PHEV and BEV new energy products designed for the Chinese market, the GWM ORA 07, GWM TANK 500, GWM POER Shanhai, GWM TANK 400, GWM HAVAL Menglong, and more. Investors were also provided with special access to explore FTXT, SVOLT, the ecosystem enterprises and the R&D center of GWM .

Investors had the unique opportunity to experience these advanced car models, yet to be released to the market, gaining a profound understanding of the company's remarkable capabilities. As vital partners in GWM's development, investors expressed their deep appreciation and confidence in the company's products, commending its innovative prowess and future potential. GWM is committed to continued collaboration with investors to deliver more new energy products that cater to the specific needs of the market, supporting the success of these products in the fiercely competitive industry.

Positioned as a leader in the electrification era, GWM actively aligns itself with international trends and showcases its competitive edge. The company recognizes that the future of the automotive industry is intricately linked with the principles of sustainable development and environmental protection. Consequently, GWM is resolute in its journey towards new energy, not only to meet future environmental requirements but also to address consumers' pressing demands for eco-friendly and efficient energy solutions.

GWM is committed to solidifying its leading role in the global automobile market and expanding its footprint in new energy development to countries such as Australia, Brazil, Thailand, Chile, Germany, and more. This strategic expansion highlights the company's remarkable expertise in the new energy sector and establishes a strong foundation for its sustainable growth in the global market.

GWM's sales of new energy vehicles continue to surge, with the first three quarters of this year witnessing a remarkable 75.77% year-on-year increase, reaching 170,346 units. This impressive growth reflects the company's comprehensive foray into the new energy vehicle segment and the market's enthusiastic endorsement of its products.

GWM acknowledges that investor trust is pivotal to its ongoing success and will work tirelessly to foster closer partnerships with investors in the future, sharing new opportunities and navigating challenges together. The company is confident in the future performance of the global new energy vehicle market and eagerly anticipates collaboratively building a greener and more sustainable future with its valued investors.

CONTACTS:

Tyler Qian

Great Wall Motor Company Limited

Baoding, Hebei Province

Website: www.gwm-global.com

Email: [email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185323
Potential merger to create new industry leader.

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 25, 2023) - MYND Life Sciences (CSE: MYND) (OTCQB: MYNDF) ("MYND" or the "Company"), a pioneering biopharmaceutical research and development company dedicated to revolutionizing treatments for patients battling relentless neurological and inflammatory diseases, announces that it has taken a definitive step forward by entering into a non-binding letter of intent ("LOI") with Cava Healthcare Inc (CAVA) to merge these two industry leaders to form a powerful new commercial entity. MYND already shares a robust business relationship with CAVA, particularly concerning their patents in two pivotal areas. This strategic merger is poised to redefine the landscape of medical innovation and is a testament to the unwavering commitment of both companies to drive transformative advancements in healthcare.

The proposed merger will be preceded by independent third-party valuations of both companies. Arrangements within each company will be negotiated by subcommittees of unconflicted Directors from both CAVA and MYND and it will require affirmative votes by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

Cava brings a portfolio of over 40 patents, licenses and patent applications that can be separated into nine families: (1) Potential new methods to treat Alzheimer's disease and related diseases, (2) Potential new methods to diagnose Alzheimer's disease and related diseases, (3) Potential new methods to treat cancer with recombinant cytokines, (4) Potential new methods to treat cancer with cell-based therapies, (5) Potential new methods to treat cancer with small molecules, (6) Potential new methods to predict cancer outcome (prognosticators), (7) Potential new methods to screen for anti-cancer agents, (8) Potential new methods to screen for immune enhancing agents, and (9) The creation and use of synthetic curcuminoids to treat cancer.

The integration of CAVA Healthcare's extensive portfolio of patents with MYND's scientific expertise represents a monumental opportunity for groundbreaking advancements in medical technology. MYND's seasoned scientific team, with their deep knowledge and innovative approach, is anticipated to be the driving force behind the evolution of these technologies. Their expertise will not only facilitate the development but also elevate these advancements to new heights, potentially revolutionizing the landscape of Alzheimer's treatment, cancer therapies, and diagnostic methodologies for both. The potential merger between CAVA's intellectual wealth and MYND's scientific prowess holds the promise of transformative breakthroughs, marking a monumental stride in the fight against devastating diseases and enhancing the overall quality of healthcare on a global scale.

MYND CEO, Dr. Lyle Oberg, MD, stated that, "MYND's business strategy revolves around translating groundbreaking research methods, emphasizing scientific excellence, into safe and efficient neuro-pharmaceutical treatments and diagnostic tools for disease of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and inflammatory diseases. The acquisition of cancer patents marks a significant expansion for our scientific team, opening new avenues for commercial exploration and development. We are thrilled to establish a robust partnership with Cava Healthcare. We firmly believe that the synergy between our intellectual assets and theirs will fuel substantial and lasting growth for both MYND and CAVA shareholders."

CAVA independent Director, Dr. Terry Pearson stated, "Having assessed MYND's intellectual property and monitored MYND's current momentum in developing and translating new medicinal products, that has created enduring value for shareholders, we firmly believe that the merged entity distinguishes it in the biopharmaceutical sector. Under Dr. Oberg's leadership, it is exceptionally well-positioned for remarkable, near-termed success."

It is anticipated the transaction will be completed in Q1 2024.

ABOUT MYND LIFE SCIENCES INC.

MYND Life Sciences Inc. is a medical biotech drug research and development company focused on neuro-pharmaceutical and novel drug development, diagnostics and vaccines. MYND is developing new biological entities (NBEs) and new chemical entities (NCEs) and differentiates itself from other (bio)pharmaceutical companies by unique molecular concepts for the applications of psilocybin analogs for overcoming disease. The Company advances pharmaceutical developments through rigorous science and clinical trials while diligently patenting and safeguarding its intellectual property.

For more information and to subscribe to MYND's mailing list, please visit https://myndsciences.com/contact-us/.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Dr. Lyle Oberg, MD, CEO

Email: [email protected]

Phone:+1 (780) 965-0122

Web: www.myndsciences.com

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 MYND to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements or information contained in this release.

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. The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the content of this news release.

None of the securities issued in connection with the Offering will be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), and none of them may be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. This press 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 where such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185281
Columbia, Maryland--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Renaye James Healthcare Advisors launched a training division in September that offers webinars, learning collaboratives, publications, and other resources to community health centers nationwide. The division, named Health Center Excellence Academy: Accelerated Learning by Renaye James Healthcare Advisors, began as part of a Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) funding opportunity.

In mid-May, the 6-year-old Columbia, Maryland-based healthcare consulting company was awarded a three-year cooperative agreement to provide clinical quality improvement and patient safety training activities to federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and look-alikes as one of the HRSA National Training and Technical Assistance Partners (NTTAP).

"We are excited to offer a wide variety of training opportunities under the umbrella of clinical quality and patient safety. Our training activities are designed with community health centers in mind to provide options for changes in systems and processes that meet the needs of our evolving healthcare landscape," said Jenene R. Washington, MD, MBA, FAAP, PCMH-CCE, PMP, Founder and CEO of Renaye James Healthcare Advisors. "The academy serves as an essential hub for vital, free training services and resources for the staff, leaders, and supporters of FQHCs."

HRSA-NTTAP training activities and expert speakers are highlighted on the Health Center Excellence Academy: Accelerated Learning by Renaye James Healthcare Advisors website. Additionally, on the site, users can review and register for training activities, sign up for more information about upcoming events, and access the Health Center Resources Clearinghouse to view additional resources from Renaye James Healthcare Advisors and other NTTAP award recipients.

Health Center Excellence Academy

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/9774/185319_xrenaye_hcea-logo-cmyk-hor.jpg



ABOUT RENAYE JAMES HEALTHCARE ADVISORS

Renaye James Healthcare Advisors LLC is an outcome-based, healthcare advisory company dedicated to improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of medical practices as they deliver care to their patients and their community. Their healthcare advisors work to transform primary care and specialty practices into high-quality, efficient, safe, patient-centered, value-based venues for healthcare.

Mariah Walters

Director of Communications

[email protected]

www.renayejames.com

P: 410-630-6959, ext. 201

###

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185319
Brampton, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Star Navigation Systems Group Ltd. (CSE: SNA) ("Star" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an update on Star's sales initiatives in advancing aviation technology and driving shareholder value.

Anoop Brar, Interim-CEO states "There has been downward pressure on the entire global market, which is negatively impacting Star's share price over the past few weeks. The corporate and marketing progress that Star has made is not a correct reflection of the price in the market. With a foundation laid out earlier this year with respect to sales and marketing, we are close to getting the much-deserved traction. The sales cycle in aviation is quite long and with many factors influencing the final sales decision by an airline. The Star team is pushing forward to upgrade its products with new innovations, enter new markets and continuing to close on previously announced LOI's and sales leads."

Progress with LAPSSET

The Government of Kenya and the LAPSSET project has been delayed and hindered by a lack of government funding, putting the project on a hold. However, in the past few months, the Government of Kenya has made significant strides in securing and acquiring international funding to continue development and construction of the project.

Star's management and sales team have been invited to Kenya to continue discussions on the LAPSSET project to incorporate Star's Land and Marine Tracking.

In a letter addressed to Star, Stephen Ikua, Director General and CEO of the LAPSSET Corridor states "The Authority appreciates your interest to do business with us and the potential of making our transport systems efficient, safe, and seamless. We want to assure you that it is our desire to keep these discussions on going. Please bear with us, as we explore other avenues of financial resource mobilization."

"The replenished funding for Kenya's LAPSSET project signifies not only growth for the Kenyan Government but also renewed and invigorated discussions with Star. This development underscores the compelling value proposition of our technology solutions within the growing transportation, infrastructure and development sector of Kenya." Says Anoop Brar, Interim-CEO.

Accelerated Engagement in Africa

Star is pursuing sales and business development opportunities in Nigeria and Kenya, with new proposals that have been issued to airlines and governmental agencies in the past few weeks, laying the groundwork for market expansion and revenue diversification. Star has received official invitations not only from the Nigerian Military but other airlines as well.

Aero Contractors: On December 6th, 2022, Star announced a Letter of Intent ("LOI") with Aero Contractors which is still ongoing. The Star sales agents are currently in Lagos, Nigeria, for technical discussions with the customer, to convert the LOI into a firm purchase order contract.

Air Peace: Air Peace, Nigeria has requested a proposal from Star for the installation of the Star-ISMS for their fleet.

Astral Aviation: Star announced a sale for 7 aircraft on June 14th, 2022. Star's engineering team were in Nairobi, Kenya in February 2023 for primary inspections on three aircraft. Star has received an installation STC from Transport Canada for the Boeing 767 aircraft and the final operational approval of the STC's from Transport Canada is estimated to be complete after installations on the aircraft commencing in Q1 of 2024. We look forward to soon sharing concrete installation timelines from Astral Aviation, contributing to our growing market share and revenue streams.

Ethiopian Airlines: Star has submitted a proposal to Ethiopian Airlines for the installation of the Star-ISMS on one of their Boeing B737 aircraft to evaluate data transmission, inflight analysis, post flight tracking and proactive maintenance capabilities. A successful demonstration would possibly lead to a sale for their entire fleet of over 160 aircraft.

Nigerian Air Force

The Star team had a very successful series of technical and commercial meetings with high-ranking officers of the Nigerian Air Force during its 'Aviation Safety Conference' held in Lagos, Nigeria. In March 2023, Star received a formal 'Letter of Invitation' from the Nigerian Air Force inviting the Star Engineering team to Lagos and Abuja for inspections of their military aircraft ranging from the King Air 350, Falcon 900, C130 and the ATR 42 to name a few. The Star sales team is currently in Nigeria for the primary inspection of the Nigerian Air Force fleet and looks forward to equipping and modernizing the military with the Star ecosystem of hardware and software products.

Ongoing Sales Negotiations in Middle East

Star's discussions with AlAtheer for the remaining fleet and other operators continues, marking an optimistic outlook for our penetration into Saudi Arabian aerospace markets. Star is currently continuing to develop customizable data analytics features to secure sales contracts for three additional airlines who are interested in partnering with Star for their digital transformation.

Al Atheer, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The VVIP A310 aircraft belonging to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been operating for over the past 5 years and continues to generate reoccurring monthly revenue for Star. Live data feed from the aircraft is helping Al Atheer with positional tracking, aircraft health management and for Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) analysis.

AlMasria, Cairo, Egypt: The Covid pandemic negatively impacted AlMasria Airlines, which ceased to operate at full capacity during the pandemic. However, the airline is now in the process of recovering and has re-engaged in discussion with Star to have the Star-ISMS system upgraded to the latest Generation 3 software firmware for two of their A320 aircrafts and furthermore are currently in discussion for the installation on the remaining fleet of two Airbus A321 and two Boeing B737's.

About Star Navigation Systems -www.star-navigation.com

Star Navigation Systems Group Ltd. manufactures the In-flight Safety Monitoring System, STAR-ISMS, the heart of the STAR-A.D.S. System. The STAR-A.D.S. System has real-time capability of tracking, performance trends and predicting incident-occurrences which enhances aviation safety and improves fleet management while reducing costs for the operator.

Star's MMI Division (Military and Defence) designs and manufactures high performance, mission critical, flight deck flat panel displays for defence and commercial aviation industries worldwide.

Forward Looking Information

Certain statements in this news release may constitute "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements are statements that address or discuss activities, events or developments that Star expects or anticipates may occur in the future.

When used in this news release, words such as "estimates", "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "projects", "will", "believes", "intends" "should", "could", "may" and other similar terminology are intended to identify such forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations and beliefs of Star's management. Because forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, actual results, performance or achievements of Star or the industry may be materially different from those implied by such forward-looking statements.

Examples of such forward-looking information that may be contained in this news release include statements regarding; growth and future prospects of our business; our perceptions of the industry and markets in which we operate and anticipated trends in such markets; expectations regarding the operation of our app; and our future revenues.

Material factors or assumptions that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making an estimate set out in the forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, our ability to execute on our business plan, increase visibility amongst consumers and convert users to revenue producing subscribers and the success of the business of our partners. Forward-looking statements involve significant uncertainties, should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be an accurate indication of whether or not such results will be achieved.

Should one or more of these factors or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected.

Accordingly, readers should exercise caution in relying upon forward-looking statements and Star undertakes no obligation to publicly revise them to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, except as required by law.

NEITHER 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.

Please visit www.star-navigation.com or contact

Anoop Brar, Interim-Chief Executive Officer at 1-416-252-2889

[email protected]

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185337
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2023) - Wealhouse Capital Management ("Wealhouse") is proud to announce its outstanding performance at the prestigious Alternative IQ's Canadian Hedge Fund Awards, where two of its Funds, the Lions Bay Fund and Amplus Credit Income Fund, earned multiple accolades.

Of the 264 Canadian hedge funds that participated in the 2023 Canadian Hedge Fund Awards program, Wealhouse took home four awards.

Senior Portfolio Manager, Justin Anis' Lions Bay Fund placed:

Best 3 Year Sharpe Ratio, Equity Focused 2nd place

Senior Portfolio Manager, Andrew Labbad's Amplus Credit Income Fund placed:

Best 3 Year Sharpe Ratio, Credit Focused 1 st place

Best 3 Year Return, Credit Focused 2 nd place

Best 1 Year Return, Credit Focused 3rd place

The 2023 Canadian Hedge Fund Awards, known as the highest honor in Canada's hedge fund industry, took place last week at the One King West Hotel in Toronto. These awards, presented in six distinguished categories, provide investors with valuable insights into the most outstanding hedge funds. The accolades are solely based on quantitative performance data up to June 30th, with Fundata Canada entrusted with data collection and tabulation to determine the winners. The process is characterized by its objectivity, as there is no nomination process or subjective assessment involved in identifying the winning hedge funds.

About Wealhouse

Founded in 2008, Wealhouse Capital Management is an independent, privately owned alternative asset manager dedicated to providing award-winning investment strategies to ultra-high net worth individuals, family offices, and advisors. With a small yet dynamic team, Wealhouse manages nearly two billion in assets for Canada's most affluent families and entrepreneurs.

Wealhouse's ethos revolves around the idea that business is personal, and the company treats investors' capital as its own. This commitment to individuality, collaboration, and a rigorous approach to methodology and process has been the cornerstone of Wealhouse's success.

Wealhouse prides itself on being investment generalists, capable of identifying value and opportunities as they arise. The company continually evolves its strategies to navigate the ever-changing markets, anticipating shifts to mitigate risks, seize opportunities, and protect investors' capital.

Unlike being tethered to specific theses, industries, sectors, or geographies, Wealhouse seeks opportunities wherever they may be found. As a nimble organization, Wealhouse is quick to seize these opportunities, often ahead of the competition. Market volatility is viewed as an advantage, as Wealhouse sees changes coming and is prepared to capitalize on them. Change is inevitable, and it's Wealhouse's mission to make it work for investors. Remaining vigilant, so you don't have to be.

For further information, visit www.wealhouse.com or contact:

George Ganas, Senior Vice President, Sales

[email protected]

Cailey Orellana, Vice President, Sales & Marketing

[email protected]

About the Annual Canadian Hedge Fund Awards:

The Annual Canadian Hedge Fund Awards were first held in 2008 and have a two-fold objective: First, to celebrate the talent and accomplishments of Canada's hedge fund industry, and second, to draw attention to Canada's hedge funds by raising the awareness of that expertise in the media and among the wider investment community.

http://alternativeiq.com/canadian-hedge-fund-awards/media/

Disclaimer:

The Funds are only available to accredited investors only. Please read the offering memorandum carefully before investing. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees, performance fees and expenses all may be associated with fund investments. All performance data assume reinvestment of all distributions or dividends and do not take into account sales, redemption, distribution or optional charges or income taxes payable by any security holder that would have reduced returns. Current year performances are unaudited and past performances may not be repeated. All information is subject to change from time to time without notice.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/185207
Chevron (NYSE: CVX) October weekly 155 straddle is priced for a move of 2.5% into the expected release of quarter results before the bell on October 27.
NEW YORK , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready for an enchanting celebration as 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square , presented by KIA,' returns on October 28, 2023 .

A Celebration of Unity, Diversity, and NYC Diwali School Holiday! Diwali at Times Square

The Festival of Diwali is all about sharing happiness and showing your love and respect for your family, friends, and the community they live in. Diwali celebration serves as a powerful symbol of unity, bridging cultural ties and fostering diversity.

The Diwali festival in Times Square continues its tradition since 2013, bringing together the rich tapestry of Indian culture right to the heart of New York City , Times Square .

This year, we are celebrating the Diversity of India and America through a diverse range of performances representing various communities, including South Asian, Indo-Caribbean, Dominican Folk Dance, and Afro Latino groups. It's a testament to the cultural mosaic that is New York City .

We're thrilled to announce that we'll be celebrating NYC Diwali School Holiday. New York City school children are getting ready to perform a special dance segment in Times Square on October 28th . Thanks to the relentless efforts of NYC Mayor Eric Adams and Indian-origin State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar .

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar strongly believes that "The South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities are a vital part of our city's gorgeous mosaic. It is a long past time to honor their vibrant cultural heritage by making Diwali a school holiday."

NYC Mayor Eric Adams describes the Diwali festival: "We deal with so much darkness that is around us; we fail to realize the overwhelming amount of light that is around us. And when we take this period to acknowledge Diwali, we are acknowledging the light that is within us, the light that can clearly push away darkness, and that is why this is so significant."

The founder of Diwali at Times Square , Neeta Bhasin , emphasizes the importance of educating children about their roots, culture, and traditions from an early age. She believes that the annual Diwali festival in Times Square plays a pivotal role in connecting children with the festival's significance and fostering a peaceful and harmonious world.

During Diwali, people decorate their homes and share sweets and gifts with their friends and loved ones. Our Title Sponsor, Gopi Dairy, aligns perfectly with the tradition of spreading sweetness and joy.

Title Sponsor of Diwali at Times Square , the CEO of Gopi Dairy, Rostom Baghdassarian , said, "Gopi Dairy is proud to sponsor 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square 2023', a festival rooted in peace, new beginnings, and the human values of gratitude and humility. At Gopi, we're honored to have been part of your daily lives for over a decade, delivering pure dairy products from our family to yours. This is an historic moment for us all to celebrate the universal festival of light and joy!"

Our Presenting Partner, KIA, aligns perfectly with the spirit of this day, symbolizing the prosperity and success they bring to our lives.

Join us in this celebration of unity, culture, and diversity at 'Gopi Dairy Diwali at Times Square ,' presented by KIA, on October 28th, 2023 .

Contact:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 212-216-9305/516-343-0181

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-celebration-of-unity-diversity-and-new-york-city-diwali-school-holiday-301968959.html
MELBOURNE, Australia , Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shanghai -based renewable energy company AIKO made a grand debut at the All-Energy exhibition in Melbourne, Australia on Oct 25 with its cutting-edge solar cell products, which captured attentions from global visitors.

The exhibition, one of Australia's largest, highlights cutting-edge renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies from around the world. AIKO unveiled its products for the first time in the Australia as part of its efforts to expand the country's market.

One of its spotlights is the ultra-efficient ABC (All Back Contact) structure cells and component products, which were independently developed by AIKO.

This type of solar photovoltaic panel can generate more electricity on the same surface area, compared with traditional front surface contact structure cells, with the highest efficiency reaching 24 percent.

Founded in 2009, AIKO is an international player in solar cell manufacturing and in providing photovoltaic energy integrated solutions, with products sold in South Korea , Japan , India and Europe .

In the new era of global energy transformation, the company has been making efforts in technological innovation to support the construction of a new energy system around the globe to contribute to the overall goal of global carbon neutrality, said AIKO Chairman Chen Gang .

In alignment with the Australian market and customer demands, the company has enhanced the efficiency and reliability of its solar cell technology.

The ABC double glass solar component utilizes dual-glass encapsulation technology, building upon the core strengths of the ABC single glass component, enhancing its properties in terms of barrier, moisture resistance, and fire retardance. It comes with a 25-year product quality warranty and a 30-year power quality warranty.

The ABC structure cells can fully meet the needs of middle and high-end users from the aspects of beautiful appearance, structural safety, convenient installation, high utilization rate and more power generation.

AIKO is working to expand its overseas market by exporting its products and set up subsidiaries in foreign countries. As of the first half of 2023, AIKO has set up subsidiary companies in nine countries, including Germany , Netherlands , UK , Italy , Singapore , and Japan . The company also continues to expand its global sales network in regions spanning Europe , Asia , Oceania . The company's entrance into the Australian market is a significant step in its global expansion efforts, showcasing its commitment to international growth.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aiko-a-global-leading-new-energy-technology-company-poised-for-australia-market-expansion-301967226.html

SOURCE AIKO
With hardly any food or water, no electricity to charge their equipment, no internet and under the constant threat of bombing by the Israeli army, local journalists in Gaza are the only voices that are reporting on the conflict from within the enclave. The total siege decreed by the Israeli government of Benjamin Netanyahu, after Hamas launched an unprecedented attack against Israel on October 7, has prevented the entry of both the international and Israeli press. As a result, Gaza is close to a complete media blackout, according to Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Israeli bombs are also silencing journalists. The Israeli armys airstrike campaign against Gaza has killed more than 6,500 people, including 20 journalists, and has destroyed or damaged some 50 media outlets in the Palestinian enclave, among the thousands of buildings affected.

Hossam B is a Gazan journalist who does not want to give his real name to protect himself and out of respect for the security instructions of the media outlet he works for. He is one of 50 reporters who, according to RSF, have had to rush to evacuate their homes in Gaza City due to Israels evacuation orders. He has been in the south of the Gaza Strip for more than a week with his wife, whose health problems have been exacerbated by the stressful situation, and four children. I have already seen a few wars in Gaza, but I have never cried as much as these days, while working, he says, in a telephone conversation with EL PAIS at the end of another exhausting work day. Its not like anything weve experienced before, no one is safe. Its so unfair... I just want to tell the truth, as a journalist, so that someone stops this now and our families can be saved, he adds, exhausted.

According to cases confirmed by RSF, at least 10 journalists have died while covering the conflict and another nine have lost their lives as a result of Israeli attacks. On Wednesday, the Al Jazeera network reported that the family  the wife, son and daughter  of one of its correspondents in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh, have been killed in a bombing. They had moved from the north of Gaza to Nuseirat, in the center, after Israel warned residents to leave the area in order to escape the imminent ground incursion. Also killed on Wednesday, by another Israeli air attack in the south of the Palestinian enclave, were the wife and son of journalist Mohammed Farra, who was working in Ramallah (West Bank).

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) raises the total number of killed journalists to 24 (20 Palestinians, three Israelis and one Lebanese reporter). The figure is similar to the number of all the journalists killed in Palestine during the last 10 years, condemns Edith Rodriguez Cachera, vice president of RSF Spain. The last confirmed victim, Mohammad Baalouche, director of the Palestine Today television channel, was murdered in a selective attack against his home in Gaza, according to the CPJ.

Exponential dangers

Local Palestinian journalists are the eyes of what is happening on the ground, but they face exponential dangers, including not only airstrikes, but also a possible ground incursion, says Sherif Mansour, the coordinator of CPJs Middle East and North Africa program. Many of them have lost their homes and their families, they have had to flee to the south, where they continue to face great danger when they work, and where they do not have access to computers or the internet to carry out their reporting, he continues.

They also cannot receive help from abroad as a result of the blockade, which Israel has maintained since 2007, points out Rodriguez Cachera. You cannot send them solar batteries to make up for the shortage of electricity, which is what is used in conflict zones, nor can they be equipped or evacuated, as happened with the Afghan journalists [after the return of the Taliban, in August 2021], he adds.

These are precisely the conditions under which Hossam B has to carry out his job. We are working in our territory, and we have two duties: one to our people and another to our family. For me, its in that order. I go out to work and do everything I can to convey the truth about what our people are suffering. And I also spend part of the day trying to reassure and keep my family safe, he explains. Because when you see dead children every day, entire families buried under the ruins, or mothers of wounded families who end up dying, you only think about your loved ones. It only takes one second for your children to be those dead children, he adds. If at some point Egypt allows Gazans to leave or if he is offered the option to be evacuated, he is not sure what he would do. It is a difficult question. I would do everything to keep my family safe, but I dont know if I would leave or stay working. Honestly, I dont know.

Working as a journalist in any international conflict is difficult, but, according to Mansour, in the specific case of Gaza, the presence of international journalists and media has been falling. In many cases, its due to the risk it entails because in other wars in Gaza the facilities of other media outlets were bombed, says Mansour. This includes Al Jazeera, the Qatari channel that the Israeli government is now trying to ban with an emergency rule that will allow it to close media outlets whose reporting harms national security. Mansour continues: It is very risky, especially after the murder of prominent Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh [who was killed by Israeli forces, according to the U.N., in the northern West Bank in May 2022], a death for which no one was held accountable.

At other key moments of the conflict, such as the Israeli offensive in Gaza in 2014  the bloodiest in recent years, in which more than 2,200 Palestinians died  there were foreign journalists inside Gaza. But now, the two crossings that could give entry to the international press: one in the north, from Israel, and another in the south, from Egypt, are closed. No one has entered or left Gaza since October 7, except for the few humanitarian aid trucks that have entered in recent days.

Other forms of repression

Repression against journalism also takes other forms, in addition to direct attacks on the lives of reporters and photographers, says RSF. According to the Palestinian Press Syndicate, 50 media outlets have been totally or partially destroyed in Gaza, including 24 radio stations that broadcast over the air or online, which are one of the main sources of information for the local population, explains Rodriguez Cachera.

Dozens of these media were grouped in large towers in Gaza City, which were among the first to be bombed by Israel, adds Mansour. According to the RSF, the bombings also destroyed a temporary tent housing teams from AFP, Reuters, BBC and Al Jazeera in the south of Gaza, but did not injure anyone.

Journalists outside of Gaza are also feeling the pressure. Three BBC journalists were held at gunpoint by an Israeli police officer on their way to their hotel in Tel Aviv. And in Jerusalem, Ahmad Darwasha, a correspondent for Al Araby TV, was threatened and insulted during a live broadcast by another Israeli police officer. I really hope you say good things, he snapped when the reporter explained that he was telling him what the spokesperson of the Israeli Defense Forces had said. As Darwasha tried to finish his broadcast, the police officer stood in front of the camera. Killers, killers [...] Gaza should be turned into dust.

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB), a global leader in providing essential elements for mobility, energy, connectivity, and health, today announced that Neal Sheorey will join Albemarle as its executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective Nov. 6, 2023 . Scott Tozier , Albemarle's current executive vice president and chief financial officer, will transition from his current role and become a strategic advisor to the CEO.

"Scott's steady leadership, strategic market knowledge and extensive financial acumen have driven Albemarle's growth strategy for more than a decade," said Albemarle CEO Kent Masters . "Most importantly, Scott's enduring commitment to our core values and his unwavering belief in Albemarle's mission and vision are distinguishing characteristics that will continue to serve the company in this new advisory role."

Sheorey joins Albemarle from Dow, a global materials science company, where he served for more than 20 years in progressive finance, business, and corporate leadership roles. Most recently, he was vice president of Dow's Coatings & Performance Monomers business unit, a global portfolio with more than $4 billion in sales, where he was responsible for the group's strategy, profitability, and growth initiatives. Prior to his current role, Sheorey served as Dow's vice president of investor relations, senior director of corporate development and global finance director for the Chemicals business group.

Sheorey holds a master's degree in business administration with a concentration in finance and corporate strategy from the University of Michigan, and a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Northwestern University.

"Neal's management and financial experience, coupled with his experience in global and capital-intensive environments, will be valuable additions to our leadership team," said Masters.

Tozier joined Albemarle in 2011 as senior vice president and chief financial officer.

About Albemarle

Albemarle Corporation (NYSE: ALB) leads the world in transforming essential resources into critical ingredients for mobility, energy, connectivity, and health. We partner to pioneer new ways to move, power, connect and protect with people and planet in mind. A reliable and high-quality global supply of lithium and bromine allows us to deliver advanced solutions for our customers. Learn more about how the people of Albemarle are enabling a more resilient world at Albemarle.com and on Twitter @AlbemarleCorp.

Albemarle regularly posts information on our website, including notification of events, news, financial performance, investor presentations and webcasts, non-GAAP reconciliations, SEC filings and other information regarding the company, its businesses, and the markets we serve.

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SOURCE Albemarle Corporation
CHANTILLY, Va. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Arcfield, a leading government services and mission support provider, announced today that it has appointed John Avalos as chief operating officer (COO). In this newly created role, Avalos will oversee the operations and management of Arcfield's three business sectors as well as continue his oversight of the company's growth and technology functions.

Avalos joined Arcfield last March as chief growth officer and has been a driving force behind Arcfield's early success. He's played a critical role in standing up the company's growth organization, evaluating M&A targets, including the recently acquired Strategic Technology Consulting (STC), and ensuring the company meets its long-term business development and revenue goals.

As the executive leader of Arcfield's newly unified growth and operations organization, Avalos will continue to support the company's organic and inorganic growth objectives while also ensuring the company has the people, resources and tools necessary to meet and exceed current customer obligations while also planning for and addressing future mission needs.

"John is uniquely qualified to serve in a role that manages both revenue-generating, and profit and loss functions," said Kevin Kelly , chairman and chief executive officer, Arcfield. "With nearly three decades of industry and government experience, proven success building and managing high-performing teams, and a keen eye for identifying innovation and technology gapsI am excited to see what John and his collective team will accomplish for Arcfield and our mission partners."

Before coming to Arcfield, Avalos served as chief operating officer at SOSi and led day-to-day operations for the company. Prior to that, he led the business development organization at Booz Allen Hamilton after serving as a vice president in BAE System's intelligence and security sector. Before joining industry, John served more than eight years in the U.S. Army, conducting intelligence operations supporting tactical units and national-level intelligence agencies.

"Arcfield has been investing in the development of its pipeline of new business and several core capabilities that are critical to ensure success for some our key mission areas," Kelly added. "Accordingly, and commensurate with John's promotion, we are making other structural changes to better position the company for success as we enter a period of rapid growth and market expansion."

About Arcfield

Arcfield was purpose-built to protect the nation and its allies through innovations in systems engineering and integration, space and mission launch assurance, cybersecurity, and conventional and hypersonic missile support. Headquartered in Chantilly, VA with 16 global offices, Arcfield employs more than 1,400 engineers, analysts, IT specialists, and other professionals with more than 60 years of collective proven experience supporting missions in cyber and space defense, hypersonic and nuclear deterrence, and warfighter readiness. Visit arcfield.com for more details.

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SOURCE Arcfield
Leading eyewear brand celebrates new store location with grand opening event for the Delray Beach community

SAN DIEGO , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Blenders Eyewear, a leading eyewear brand, part of Safilo Group, is thrilled to announce the opening of its new retail store located in the bustling city of Delray Beach, FL. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion and underscores its commitment to providing stylish and affordable eyewear for all.

Opening its doors to the local community on Saturday, October 28 th, Blenders Eyewear's Delray Beach store location will feature a wide range of the brand's latest sunglasses and core collections. This new store opening nods to Blenders Eyewear's continued growth and increased presence as a leading destination for high-quality eyewear.

"We're thrilled to bring the vibrant spirit of Blenders Eyewear to Delray Beach ," said Chase Fisher , CEO and Founder of Blenders Eyewear. "As we open our sixth and final store location, we are excited to provide the community with a taste of our bold and bright eyewear. Delray Beach embodies a dynamic energy that aligns perfectly with our mission, and we look forward to building lasting connections with our customers in this thriving city."

To celebrate this exciting milestone, Blenders Eyewear invites the Delray Beach community to attend its official grand opening event on October 28 th from 10am  2pm ET . The event will kick off with a " Shade Swap ," where the first 100 customers can swap any pair of non-Blenders shades for a complimentary pair of custom Delray Beach sunglasses. The festivities will continue with exciting promotions, refreshments, photo opportunities, and the chance to have personalized drawings created by local artists.

Showcasing the brand's ongoing growth, this initiative closely aligns with Blenders Eyewear's latest products launched through its continued partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing. With exciting new products such as the Toro Rojo sunglasses ( $89 ) that put a spotlight on Mexico City's rich heritage, as well as the upcoming Ace Royale ( $89 ) launching on November 9 th that capture the essence of the Las Vegas circuit, Blenders Eyewear continues to push the pace with its progressive offerings.

The grand opening event for Blenders Eyewear's Delray Beach store will take place on Saturday, October 28 th from 10am  2pm ET at 327 E Atlantic Ave , Suite 4, Delray Beach, FL 33483. For more information on Blenders Eyewear, please visit BlendersEyewear.com, and follow @Blenders on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

About Blenders Eyewear

Blenders Eyewear was founded in 2012 by Chase Fisher in San Diego, California . Blenders produces a wide range of men's and women's sunglasses and snow goggles. Driven by a company-wide motto of "life in forward motion," its products are predicated upon a bold aesthetic that emphasizes progressive colorways aimed at active and lifestyle enthusiasts.

Media Contact

5W Public Relations

[email protected]

212-999-5585

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SOURCE Blenders Eyewear
HONG KONG , Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CNOOC Limited (the "Company", SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) announces today that Enping 18-6 Oilfield Development Project has commenced production.

The project is located in the Pearl River Mouth Basin of the South China Sea , with an average water depth of approximately 99 meters. The main production facilities include one wellhead platform, with 15 development wells planned to be put into production. It is expected to achieve a peak production of approximately 9,300 barrels of crude oil per day in 2024.

CNOOC Limited holds 100% interest in the project and acts as the operator.

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at http://www.cnoocltd.com.

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company's expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company's price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu

Media & Public Relations

CNOOC Limited

Tel: +86-10-8452-6641

Fax: +86-10-8452-1441

E-mail: [email protected]

Mr. Bunny Lee

Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group

Tel: +852 3150 6707

Fax: +852 3150 6728

E-mail: [email protected]

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SOURCE CNOOC Limited
New Darktrace /Cloud solution now available via the AWS Marketplace ; provides a real-time, architecture-based view of cloud environments so businesses can easily and quickly act against evolving threats and misconfigurations, and strengthen compliance.

CAMBRIDGE, England , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Darktrace, a global leader in cyber security AI, today unveiled a new Darktrace/Cloud solution based on its unique Self-Learning AI. The new solution provides comprehensive visibility of cloud architectures, real-time cloud-native threat detection and response, and prioritized recommendations and actions to help security teams manage misconfigurations and strengthen compliance. When combined with insight from Darktrace solutions for network, email, apps, zero trust and endpoint, Darktrace/Cloud provides a deeper, contextualized understanding of the risks and threats currently facing an organization's digital estate.

According to a recent report , "Gartner anticipates over 99 percent of cloud breaches will be based on a customer error, account takeover or misconfiguration until 2027"[1]. Cloud environments are constantly evolving so security professionals need to increase the level of visibility while keeping up with changing compliance, risk and security requirements. The rise of cloud-native technologies including containers, Kubernetes and microservices also require new tools and techniques for detecting and responding to known and novel threats.

"Unlike static cloud security tools that provide snapshots of a specific point in time, Darktrace/Cloud is real-time, all the time. Our Self-Learning AI continuously learns patterns between workloads, assets, policy configurations and identities to provide a dynamic view of cloud architectures. We analyze the entire cloud stack from data to control plane, combining an understanding of architecture and network with a new flexible, scalable deployment model," said Jack Stockdale , Chief Technology Officer, Darktrace. "Our innovative approach to cloud security is built on more than a decade of leadership in Cyber AI that is already protecting our customers' critical business areas from network and email to operational technology."

Available today, the new capabilities in Darktrace/Cloud include:

Comprehensive visibility and architecture modeling for insights into the constantly changing nature of cloud environments. This visibility is constructed dynamically from configuration, network, users and identity and access management (IAM) data. Darktrace establishes patterns of life for cloud resources, identities, and services to understand who has access to what and how. This is critical for detecting anomalies and unknown threats.

for insights into the constantly changing nature of cloud environments. This visibility is constructed dynamically from configuration, network, users and identity and access management (IAM) data. establishes patterns of life for cloud resources, identities, and services to understand who has access to what and how. This is critical for detecting anomalies and unknown threats. Universal attack path modeling provides a dynamic view of where attackers may look to move next. Darktrace brings together real-time cloud data and a deep understanding of your cloud environment with a platform approach that provides insights about risks from other covered areas of the business (e.g., network, email) to highlight potential attack paths and prioritize important assets to secure.

provides a dynamic view of where attackers may look to move next. brings together real-time cloud data and a deep understanding of your cloud environment with a platform approach that provides insights about risks from other covered areas of the business (e.g., network, email) to highlight potential attack paths and prioritize important assets to secure. Unique real-time and cloud-native threat detection and response that provides a dynamic view of known and novel threats within the cloud. Darktrace combines deep cloud attack path knowledge with real-time anomaly and threat detection through cloud-native autonomous response actions, such as detaching a policy from a user or removing a workload from a security group.

that provides a dynamic view of known and novel threats within the cloud. combines deep cloud attack path knowledge with real-time anomaly and threat detection through cloud-native autonomous response actions, such as detaching a policy from a user or removing a workload from a security group. Prioritized cloud posture management that starts by examining cloud configurations against common compliance frameworks. Where misconfigurations are detected, Darktrace provides a prioritized view of what to fix first, based on a risk profile generated from security and business context. Guided steps can be provided to help teams proactively address these before they become a significant issue.

that starts by examining cloud configurations against common compliance frameworks. Where misconfigurations are detected, provides a prioritized view of what to fix first, based on a risk profile generated from security and business context. Guided steps can be provided to help teams proactively address these before they become a significant issue. Cost discovery to provide a better understanding of cloud resource allocation. This helps teams contextualize their cloud resources according to security and business priorities.

to provide a better understanding of cloud resource allocation. This helps teams contextualize their cloud resources according to security and business priorities. Communication and collaboration capabilities to streamline workflows between security teams and DevOps teams. Tickets can be created on demand, teams can communicate directly via messaging platforms, and alerts and anomaly detections can be sent to Security Information & Event Management (SIEM) or Security Orchestration, Automation and Response (SOAR) products and the Darktrace Mobile app so they can be alerted on the go.

to streamline workflows between security teams and DevOps teams. Tickets can be created on demand, teams can communicate directly via messaging platforms, and alerts and anomaly detections can be sent to Security Information & Event Management (SIEM) or Security Orchestration, Automation and Response (SOAR) products and the Darktrace Mobile app so they can be alerted on the go. Flexible deployment options include an agentless deployment by default so organizations can be up and running in minutes. Teams can use the dynamic architectural view and risk context to decide where to deploy agents for enhanced real-time actions and deeper inspection.

Sykes Cottages, a cloud-native travel agency platform in the UK , has experienced significant growth in the last five years and has relied on the cloud to help them scale throughout this period.

"When it comes to cybersecurity, having visibility and an understanding of what you've got and your risks is critical. If I don't know it's there, I can't protect it," said Jonny Mattey , Head of Cybersecurity, Sykes Cottages. "Having a holistic, live view of our cloud environment enables us to work pragmatically and use AI to cut down management time so that we can address security risks and improve our resilience."

The new Darktrace/Cloud solution is now available on Amazon Web Services (AWS) through the AWS Marketplace , a curated digital catalog that makes it easy for customers to find, buy, deploy, and manage the third-party software they need to build solutions and run their business. Darktrace and AWS have been collaborating since 2017 to help organizations secure their AWS environments. Darktrace protects AWS environments for organizations around the world including Sunwest Bank and ProPhase Labs. Darktrace is an AWS Security Competency Partner and is part of the AWS ISV Accelerate program.

"Security is job zero at AWS," said Paddy Fitzpatrick , Director  Independent Software Vendors, UK & Ireland at Amazon Web Services. "As the threat landscape continues to evolve, the availability of AI-based tools like Darktrace/Cloud on the AWS Marketplace will help customers to gain increased visibility, and respond more effectively to security risks and threats."

Darktrace first extended its Cyber AI capabilities to cloud environments in 2016, applying its world class algorithms to granular network traffic. Darktrace/Cloud was recently named Cloud Security Product of the Year for Large Enterprises by Computing Magazine in its 2023 Cloud Excellence Awards.

Learn more about the new enhancements to Darktrace/Cloud by tuning into the launch event at 11:30am ET / 4:30pm BST .

Citations

[1] Gartner, Quick Answer: Can My Cloud Service Provider Defend Against Cyberthreats?, Charlie Winckless, 28 September 2023 . GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

ABOUT DARKTRACE

Darktrace (DARK.L), a global leader in cyber security artificial intelligence, is on a mission to free the world of cyber disruption. Breakthrough innovations in our Cyber AI Research Center in Cambridge, UK have resulted in over 160 patents filed and research published to contribute to the cyber security community. Rather than study attacks, Darktrace's technology continuously learns and updates its knowledge of 'you' and applies that understanding to optimize your state of optimal cyber security. Darktrace is delivering the first ever Cyber AI Loop , fueling a continuous end-to-end security capability that can autonomously spot and respond to novel in-progress threats within seconds. Darktrace employs over 2,200 people around the world and protects approximately 8,900 customers globally from advanced cyber threats. Darktrace was named one of TIME magazine's 'Most Influential Companies' in 2021. To learn more, visit http://www.darktrace.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/darktrace-unveils-new-cloud-native-security-solution-using-ai-to-provide-real-time-cyber-resilience-for-cloud-environments-301968114.html

SOURCE Darktrace
BOGOTA, D.C., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ecopetrol S.A. (BVC: ECOPETROL; NYSE: EC) announces that after market close on Tuesday, November 7, 2023 , it will release its financial and operating results for the third quarter of 2023.

On Wednesday, November 8, 2023 , Ecopetrol's senior management will host a single virtual conference call to review the results, with transmission in Spanish and English. Please find below the timing and links to access the conference:

Conference Call 09:00 a.m. Col Time 09:00 a.m. NY Time

To access the webcast, the following link will be available:

https://xegmenta.co/ecopetrol/conferencia-de-resultados-3t-2023/

Once you receive the invitation, you will find the link for the Spanish webcast and the link for the English webcast.

Participants will be able to ask questions using the webcast platform once the transmission of the call starts.

The earnings release, slide presentation, live webcast and recording of the conference call will be available on Ecopetrol's website: www.ecopetrol.com.co.

Please verify the functioning of the webcast platform in your browser in advance of the call. We recommend the use of the latest versions of Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox.

-----------------------------------------

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 (a)

Carolina Tovar Aragon

Email: [email protected]

Head of Corporate Communications

Marcela Ulloa

Email: [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ecopetrol-announces-the-dates-for-the-publication-of-its-third-quarter-2023-earnings-report-and-conference-call-301968722.html

SOURCE Ecopetrol S.A.
Virtual Capability Will Help Employers More Easily Onboard Remote Workers Amidst New DHS Regulations

ATLANTA , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Equifax  (NYSE: EFX) is addressing the growing demand for flexible, remote onboarding services by offering a virtual component of its award-winning I-9 Anywhere solution. This enhancement will make it easier for eligible employers to streamline their onboarding processes and enhance new hire experiences. The new capability will align with the recent U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announcement enabling employers who participate in E-Verify and are in good standing to have the option to conduct Form I-9 verification electronically and with a live video call interaction.

As employers navigate the changing regulatory landscape, many are seeking new solutions and processes that provide an additional degree of flexibility . The new I-9 Anywhere virtual component will offer employers a fully outsourced I-9 solution  regardless of where their new hires are located.

"The new I-9 Anywhere virtual option is one more way we are helping businesses simplify complex HR processes," said Lisa Chall , Vice President of Onboarding & Talent Solutions at Equifax Workforce Solutions. "We're helping employers offer their new hires an easier, mobile-first onboarding experience that supports today's workforce."

The virtual option will complement the existing I-9 Anywhere in-person process. It will provide employers who participate in E-Verify and are in good standing with the flexibility to have the new hire schedule an in-person appointment at an I-9 Anywhere location or through a video call in order to complete the necessary employment documentation.

Equifax Workforce Solutions expects to launch the new I-9 Anywhere virtual option prior to the end of the year, and remains committed to driving innovation and expanding its leading onboarding solution suite. To learn more about I-9 Anywhere, I-9 HQ, or other onboarding resources, visit our website .

ABOUT EQUIFAX INC.

At Equifax (NYSE: EFX), we believe knowledge drives progress. As a global data, analytics, and technology company, we play an essential role in the global economy by helping financial institutions, companies, employers, and government agencies make critical decisions with greater confidence. Our unique blend of differentiated data, analytics, and cloud technology drives insights to power decisions to move people forward. Headquartered in Atlanta and supported by 14,000 employees worldwide, Equifax operates or has investments in 24 countries in North America , Central and South America , Europe , and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, visit Equifax.com .

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Daniel Jenkins for Equifax

[email protected]

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SOURCE Equifax Inc.
Support for grassroots organizations in Brazil , Kenya and India .

Initiatives aim to take on some of humanity's most pressing priorities.

Thousands of lives and communities will be positively impacted.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia , Oct. 26, 2023 The FII Institute, the global non-profit organization that brings people together to deliver actionable solutions to the world's most pressing challenges, is proud to announce the launch of four initiatives on three continents that will have long-lasting and sustainable impact for thousands of people in local communities.

In Brazil , FII Institute has partnered with ARCA, a grassroots community-based organization aiming to increase access to digital devices amongst youth, young adults and entrepreneurs in the oldest favela of Sao Paulo. The initiative will benefit 80 children and teenagers enrolled in school, 150 youths and adults in professional training, and 10 small business entrepreneurs. Some 8,000 people who live in the favela are involved in the initiative.

In Kenya , FII Institute has joined KenyaConnect to launch two initiatives in sustainability and education in rural Kenya .

- In education, FII Institute will help equip three schools in rural areas with computer labs and equipment to catalyze their coding and robotics clubs. Three schools with 875 students and 40 teachers will have access to digital learning, with another three primary schools with 671 students also involved in the project.

- In sustainability, FII Institute will provide reliable access to clean water to 26 schools in rural Kenya by installing 26 tanks to collect rainwater. This initiative will directly benefit 6500 students and teachers who currently lack ready access to clean and drinkable water.

In India , FII-Institute has partnered with Grameena Vikas Kendram Society in a project to provide sustainable drinking water to rural communities in Andhra Pradesh by providing clean drinking water in villages through installing advanced water filters. The project will directly benefit 225 families, or more than a thousand individuals, who currently face challenges in accessing clean water supplies.

Richard Attias , CEO of Future Investment Initiative Institute:

"FII Institute is proud to back these valuable projects, which will directly benefit thousands of people at the grassroots level. The Institute's mission is to bring about meaningful and impactful solutions to real-world challenges, and these initiatives are the perfect illustration of that philosophy in action."

About FII Institute

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) Institute is a global nonprofit foundation driven by data with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Global and inclusive, we foster great minds from around the world and turn ideas into real-world solutions in four critical areas: Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258661/FII_Institute.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1811613/4364928/FII_Institute_Logo.jpg

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SOURCE Future Investment Initiative Institute
BETHESDA, Md. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Hull Street Energy has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of EF Oxnard, LLC (EF Oxnard) from an affiliate of Atlantic Power & Utilities. Located in Oxnard, California , EF Oxnard is a nominal 48 MW simple cycle, gas-fired facility.

The EF Oxnard plant and its excellent employees will be a high-quality addition to Hull Street Energy's transition-focused power infrastructure business unit, Milepost Power. Upon closing this transaction, Hull Street Energy affiliates will own approximately 2,350 MW of critical gas-fired and dual-fueled generation capacity to support grid operations throughout the United States . Hull Street Energy looks forward to working with employees and stakeholders to provide efficient, reliable support for California grid operations as the region continues to decarbonize.

Troutman Pepper acted as legal counsel to Hull Street Energy. Sidley Austin LLP acted as legal counsel to Atlantic Power & Utilities.

About Hull Street Energy, LLC

Hull Street Energy is a private equity firm that specializes in deploying capital into the power sector as it decarbonizes. Headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland , the team leverages its decades of experience and unique knowledge of North American electricity infrastructure, fundamentals, and grid operations, including fuel inputs, commodity contract structuring, renewable and fossil powered generation assets, energy storage, transmission and distribution systems, and electricity demand-side businesses to build value for stakeholders. For further information about Hull Street Energy please see www.hullstreetenergy.com.

About Milepost Power

Milepost Power owns and manages flexible, dependable and clean natural gas and dual-fuel electric generating plants in North America , providing electricity and critical reliability service to the grid. Its power plants and analytically driven risk management protocols position the company to play an increasingly important role as the industry transitions to include more renewable generation resources. Milepost Power is an affiliate of Hull Street Energy. For further information please see www.milepostpower.com.

About Atlantic Power & Utilities.

Atlantic Power & Utilities is an independent power producer that owns power generation assets in nine states in the United States and two provinces in Canada . The generation projects sell electricity and steam to investment-grade utilities and other large customers, predominantly under long-term Power Purchase Agreements with expiration dates ranging from 2023 to 2043. The projects are diversified by geography, fuel type, technology, dispatch profile and offtaker (customer). More information can be found at www.atlanticpower.com.

Media Contact

[email protected]

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SOURCE Hull Street Energy
Harvest Pillar concrete trellis posts last longer than wood and steel while saving on repair and replacement costs for vineyards, orchards, nut farms, and hop yards.

RENO, Nev. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jensen Precast, a leading provider of infrastructure solutions, today introduced Harvest Pillar prestressed concrete trellis posts for vineyards, orchards, nut farms, and hop yards. Built to last significantly longer than traditional wood and steel trellis systems, Harvest Pillar products are immune to pests, diseases, and weather events.

"Harvest Pillar concrete posts will help growers save on costly repairs and replacement of wood and steel posts," said George Kehagias , Technical Sales Manager for Jensen Precast. "Concrete has long been used in Europe and Australia for trellising. We are now introducing it to American growers, including vineyard management businesses. Harvest Pillar is designed to reduce labor and maintenance costs while providing a lasting solution to recurring trellis replacement needs."

Jensen Precast conducted extensive research in designing and manufacturing Harvest Pillar trellis posts, including strength and deflection testing at Technicon Engineering Services in Fresno, California . Prestressed concrete is made with steel tendons encased in Portland cement, aggregates, and water, the standard materials used to make concrete. The bendable tendons give concrete flexibility in the field during weather and harvesting events. Besides withstanding hot, cold, rainy, snowy, and windy weather, the concrete posts are ideal for mechanical harvesting, remaining intact when vigorously shaken.

Trellis experts and crop growers agree that concrete posts are a viable option for their businesses. Jensen Precast is collaborating with industry leaders to provide next generation solutions for the industry.

"Prestressed concrete posts used in agriculture trellis offer a reliable solution to growers looking to maximize longevity, repeatability, and strength," said Agricultural Engineer Mark De Kleine , PhD, founder of TrellX, a leader in providing cost-effective trellis solutions. "The wide variety of applications and bolt-on accessories is appealing for trellis and covering systems in agriculture production. With a committed domestic producer in the United States , the availability is now unquestioned."

Harvest Pillar products are proudly made in California by Jensen Precast and are now ready for shipping across the United States .

Along with Harvest Pillar trellis posts, Jensen Precast provides engineers, contractors, and agencies with durable and lasting infrastructure products. The company builds utility structures, stormwater systems, pump stations, underground enclosures, earth retention systems, reinforced concrete pipe, and box culvert. Jensen Precast employs a team of in-house engineers to support project acceleration through design innovation.

For growers interested in a pilot project using Harvest Pillar trellis posts or ready for a partial or complete installation buildout, contact Jensen Precast.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Learn more about Harvest Pillar products by visiting HarvestPillar.com.

Speak with one of product experts by calling (775) 352-2700.

Send us an email request for additional information to [email protected] .

____________________________________________________________________________________

About Jensen Precast

Jensen Precast is the largest independently owned precast concrete company in the United States . Founded in 1968 by Donald Jensen , Board Chairman, the company employs more than 1,100 individuals throughout Arizona , California , Hawaii , Nevada , and Washington . Communities, businesses, and government agencies count on Jensen Precast for expertise in achieving infrastructure solutions.

Visit jensenprecast.com for locations, products, quotes, and expert consultation.

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SOURCE Jensen Precast
Patricia Bullrich, on October 25 in Buenos Aires. MATIAS BAGLIETTO (REUTERS)

It took 10 years for former president Mauricio Macri to turn his party, Pro, into a leading political force. And less than 24 hours to destroy it. Pro is part of the Juntos por Cambio (Together for Change) coalition, which brought Macri to power in 2015. This coalition chose Patricia Bullrich as its presidential candidate, but she was knocked out of the race on Sunday, after winning just 24% of the vote in the first round of the election. That vote was won by Sergio Massa, Argentinas economy minister and the candidate for the left-wing Peronism political movement, with the far-right leader Javier Milei coming in second place.

With the runoff scheduled for November 19, both Milei and Massa are hoping to win over the 6.2 million Argentines who voted for Bullrich.

Bullrich and Macri publicly endorsed Milei on Wednesday, but the move was met with a fierce backlash from the Together for Change coalition, which also includes the century-old Radical Civic Union (UCR) and other centrist parties, such as Civic Coalition. Pro was the hardest hit of all: moderates in the party felt betrayed, while hardliners said they would not abide by a unilateral decision that was made without prior consultation.

The decision to support Milei came after Bullrich and Macri held a secret meeting with Milei on Tuesday at midnight. While hawks and doves were fighting, a crazy bird appeared, summarized a senator who was a member of the Together for Change coalition. The crazy bird is Milei.

Milei burst into Argentine politics two years ago, promising to tear the system down. Appearing at rallies with an actual chainsaw, he yelled that the political caste was afraid and furiously attacked the old guard of politicians, who he described as thieves and murderers. No one escaped his blunt words.

Mieli said Kirchnerism  the political movement based on the ideas of former presidents Nestor Kirchner and Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, which is considered a branch of Peronism  was the worst thing to happen to Argentina. He called UCR a pack of lying swindlers. And said Bullrich was a bomb thrower who killed children in a kindergarten in the 1970s, in reference to her involvement in a youth political group. As for Macri, Milei said that he was soft, describing him as the face of good-mannered Kirchnerism who had ruined the country like the rest of the political caste.

Shouting Long live freedom, damn it, Milei destroyed all possible bridges with other parties during the presidential campaign. But after finishing second in the first round of the vote, he quickly sought to mend the damage, calling on Together for Change to support his bid to annihilate the gang of criminals, in reference to Kirchnerism. It would be irresponsible not to forgive, he said.

And Bullrich and Macri forgave him. The two most important leaders of Pro, the largest party in the Together for Change alliance, met secretly with the far-right leader who had insulted them for months and agreed, without notifying the rest of the coalition, to support him in his campaign for the presidential runoff.

Bullrich justified her decision to endorse Milei with a phrase from independence leader Jose de San Martin: When the homeland is in danger, everything is allowed, except not to defend it. For Bullrich, the danger is Kirchnerism, which she accuses of causing Argentinas decline.

Milei, Macri and Bullrich signed a document in which they committed to respecting basic democratic principles, which had been questioned by the radical libertarian. This included a pact not to legalize the free carrying of weapons and the sale of organs, and a pledge not to eliminate public health and education. The document, however, makes no mention of Mileis star policy to dollarize the Argentine economy.

Patricia Bullrich at the closing of her campaign with Mauricio Macri, in Lomas de Zamora, on October 19. Marcos Brindicci (Getty Images)

Bullrichs endorsement of Milei had the devastating effect that everyone expected. Within Pro, it revealed the hidden divide between moderates and hardliners in the party. Horacio Rodriguez Larreta, the current Chief of Government of the City of Buenos Aires, is a moderate from the Together for Change coalition. Rodriguez Larreta  who was defeated by Bullrich in the partys presidential primaries  said he was surprised to learn of the secret midnight meeting.

Milei is on the fringe of democracy and his ideas are dangerous. Massa represents the reelection of Kirchnerist populism. The third alternative is to work to keep Together for Change as strong as possible so that it is an alternative, he said Wednesday night at a press conference. We owe ourselves a self-criticism about the ways of functioning and deciding, because thats how it went for us, he added, referring to Sundays defeat.

Rodriguez Larreta insisted that the coalition needs to regain its position as the alternative to Kirchnerist Peronism, a position it had held since 2015. But he did not say whether that means leaving aside Macri and Bullrich.

Gerardo Morales, the governor of the northern province of Jujuy and president of the UCR, said that Bullrich had embarrassed him and that Macri was largely responsible for the [coalitions] defeat in the first round. This is what he wanted from the beginning, to screw Together for Change, he said of the former president.

Elisa Carrio, the founder of the Civic Coalition, was just as direct: Macri always wanted to be with Milei.

For both Morales and Carrio, the former president and Bullrich no longer belong in the opposition coalition.

What will come of Together for Change is still unknown. Rodriguez Larreta is trying to keep the coalition united. Ten of Argentinas 24 governors are from the Together for Change coalition, from the ranks of Pro and the UCR. These governors are not willing to campaign for Milei and need Together for Change to guarantee governability in their provinces. If united in a single bloc, they will be in a stronger position when it comes to negotiating with the national government, which as of December 10, will either be in the hands of Milei or Massa. Whatever the result of the runoff, they will be in the opposition.

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The company is recognized for its proven track record of supporting jewelry businesses and empowering growth

NEENAH, Wis. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jewelers Mutual Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, recently announced it has been named to Inc.'s Power Partner Awards list, which recognizes the best business-to-business providers for small businesses. The company earned the achievement for its dedication to providing innovative products and services that extend beyond insurance to protect and grow jewelry businesses, solidifying its position as the trusted advisor and solution provider for the industry.

Over the past several years, Jewelers Mutual has launched numerous technology advancements for jewelry businesses and jewelry consumers that are transforming the industry and customer experiences. Its digital Marketplace exemplifies the company's forward-thinking culture, empowering jewelers to thrive. Currently, over 13,000 registered users can access a multitude of offerings to revolutionize their jewelry businesses. In addition, Jewelers Mutual's insurtech solutions, like the LUX Digital Vault mobile app, elevate the experience at the retail counter. Customers download the app to store, view and manage their jewelry, collections and documentation and insure their piecesall from their phone.

"Clearly, Jewelers Mutual Group has gone to extraordinary lengths to drive its clients' businesses as it does its own," said Scott Omelianuk , editor-in-chief of Inc. Business Media, in a congratulatory letter.



With thousands of companies applying for recognition, the selection process for the Power Partner Awards is highly competitive and based on various criteria, including customer feedback on multiple aspects, such as:

Likelihood to Recommend: Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry.

Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry. Value Rating: Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence.

Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence. Competitive Advantage: Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers.

Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers. Reasons for Choosing: Customers shared insights into what sets Jewelers Mutual's products and services apart and why they prefer the company's offerings over other alternatives.

"This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering tailored solutions that empower jewelry businesses to succeed," said Mike Alexander , Chief Operating Officer at Jewelers Mutual. "Our team's hard work, commitment and focus on customer satisfaction have truly paid off. We are deeply grateful to our customers for their trust and confidence in us. The best is yet to come."

The view the complete list, go to https://www.inc.com/power-partner-awards/2023.

ABOUT JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual's powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers' strong financial position is reflected in their 36 consecutive "A+ Superior" ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2022 . Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin , with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida . To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.

ABOUT INC. BUSINESS MEDIA

The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community they need to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States . The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

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SOURCE Jewelers Mutual Group
Direct grants will be awarded to

World Food Program USA, One Acre Fund, and The Nature Conservancy

MOLINE, Ill. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the John Deere Foundation announced a series of grants totaling $19 million aimed at eliminating hunger by increasing access to food, uplifting resource-constrained farmers, and supporting global food systems. Awarded to World Food Program USA, One Acre Fund, and The Nature Conservancy, these are the three largest grants in the foundation's history and strengthen John Deere's commitment to creating a world in which food is a moral right for all.

These grants were announced today by Josh Jepsen , Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of John Deere, at the World Food Prize Foundation's Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa .

"We believe firmly that the world's farmers deserve our collective support and advocacy if our goal is to realize the full promise of the 'Green Revolution,'" Jepsen said during his remarks. "The private sector, including specifically those businesses involved in agriculture, have the responsibility to help close the gaps in investment. Guided by concepts such as 'trust-based philanthropy,' we can do better, particularly in honoring the work of nonprofit organizations serving marginalized growers capable of making leaps of their own."

World Food Program USA was awarded $5 million to strengthen the capacity of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world's largest humanitarian organization, to realize its vision of a world without hunger. In 2022, WFP reached an estimated 160 million people with vital food, cash, commodity vouchers, and other support, often during emergencies and within conflict zones. Through its Innovation Accelerator, WFP also invests in technology and digital transformation intended to eliminate the causes of hunger and improve WFP's humanitarian responses.



"We thank our long-standing partner, the John Deere Foundation , for their transformational investment. They have been committed to supporting WFP's innovation and tackling the root causes of global hunger. Not only are they helping fund innovations, but they are lending their expertise and actively participating in co-creating solutions. Together, we'll help make life better for millions of people," said Barron Segar , World Food Program USA President and CEO.





was awarded to strengthen the capacity of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the world's largest humanitarian organization, to realize its vision of a world without hunger. In 2022, WFP reached an estimated 160 million people with vital food, cash, commodity vouchers, and other support, often during emergencies and within conflict zones. Through its Innovation Accelerator, WFP also invests in technology and digital transformation intended to eliminate the causes of hunger and improve WFP's humanitarian responses. "We thank our long-standing partner, the , for their transformational investment. They have been committed to supporting WFP's innovation and tackling the root causes of global hunger. Not only are they helping fund innovations, but they are lending their expertise and actively participating in co-creating solutions. Together, we'll help make life better for millions of people," said , President and CEO. One Acre Fund was awarded $7.5 million to accelerate its work to ensure that every farm family has the knowledge and means to achieve big harvests, support healthy families, and cultivate rich soil. In 2022, One Acre Fund served more than 4 million farmers through partnerships and its full-service programs, equipping farmers to achieve $316 million in new profits and assets.



"As a result of the John Deere Foundation's grant, we will be able to support more than 750,000 farm families across sub-Saharan Africa over five years; unlocking nearly $65 million in new farmer profits and assets through increased food crop, cash crop, and agroforestry productivity." said Matthew Forti , One Acre Fund's Managing Director. "Our relationship with the John Deere Foundation allows us to provide farm families with pathways to prosperity and food security, while building needed climate and ecological resilience in the face of increasing challenges."





was awarded to accelerate its work to ensure that every farm family has the knowledge and means to achieve big harvests, support healthy families, and cultivate rich soil. In 2022, served more than 4 million farmers through partnerships and its full-service programs, equipping farmers to achieve in new profits and assets. "As a result of the grant, we will be able to support more than 750,000 farm families across sub-Saharan Africa over five years; unlocking nearly in new farmer profits and assets through increased food crop, cash crop, and agroforestry productivity." said , Managing Director. "Our relationship with the allows us to provide farm families with pathways to prosperity and food security, while building needed climate and ecological resilience in the face of increasing challenges." The Nature Conservancy was awarded $6.5 million to promote natural climate solutions in key regions across the globe. The grant will fund forest restoration, conservation, and agroforestry projects in economically and environmentally vulnerable areas of Argentina , Brazil , Indonesia , Mexico , and the United States . In addition to the environmental benefits offered by natural climate solutions, the projects will help improve land use practices, boost climate resilience, and increase productivity and profitability for marginalized and indigenous farm households living in these areas.



"Natural climate solutions unlock benefits for people, nature and agriculture by restoring soil health, increasing biodiversity, improving the water cycle and building climate resilience, however, they are often underfunded and underutilized," says Michael Doane , Global Managing Director for Food & Freshwater Systems at The Nature Conservancy . "This landmark grant will help The Nature Conservancy test natural climate solutions in food landscapes around the globe, improving the lives and livelihoods of farmers and illustrating the critical role of nature in sustainable food production."

This series of capacity-building and operational grants help commemorate the 75th anniversary of the John Deere Foundation, which continues to be a powerful source of philanthropy for nonprofit organizations serving John Deere home communities and farm communities around the world.

About John Deere (NYSE: DE)

Deere & Company (www.JohnDeere.com) is a global leader in the delivery of agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment. We help our customers push the boundaries of what's possible in ways that are more productive and sustainable to help life leap forward. Our technology-enabled products including John Deere Autonomous 8R Tractor, See & Spray, and E-Power Backhoe are just some of the ways we help meet the world's increasing need for food, shelter, and infrastructure. Deere & Company also provides financial services through John Deere Financial. For more information on Deere & Company, visit us at www.deere.com/en/news/.

About the John Deere Foundation

The John Deere Foundation helps bring to life John Deere's higher purpose  "We run so life can leap forward"  through investments that allow the people we serve to overcome the challenges they face today and create for themselves paths to a more prosperous tomorrow. The foundation has committed at least $200 million from 2021-2030 to unlock economic, social, and environmental value for smallholder and resource-constrained farmers, marginalized families and youth in John Deere home communities, and our workforce. Learn more at https://about.deere.com/en-us/our-company-and-purpose/global-impact.

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SOURCE John Deere Company
HERNDON, Va. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Constellis, a leading provider of essential risk management and mission support services to government and commercial customers worldwide, announced today that Jon Paul "JP" Kiwus has joined the Company as Program Manager of the National Security Division.

"We are very excited to welcome JP to Constellis," said Terry Ryan , Chief Executive Officer of Constellis. "His vast experience in National Security and force protection combined with his program management experience and extensive knowledge in advanced technology will assist the company as we address the increasing demand to provide high-quality security by integrating leading-edge security solutions for our customers."

Mr. Kiwus joined the company after a 30-year career with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Security and Operations, specializing in security and force protection services for special projects, compartmented programs, and overseas operations. Mr. Kiwus retired from the CIA in 2020 with extensive experience developing, managing, and supporting facilities in remote and hostile areas while supporting critical executive-branch-directed missions.

About Constellis

Constellis provides end-to-end risk management and comprehensive security solutions to safeguard people and infrastructure. Operating globally and based in the Washington D.C. area, our employees bring unparalleled dedication and passion for creating a safer world while upholding the highest standards of compliance, quality, and integrity. Constellis' solutions include a range of services, including background investigations, K-9, technical services, UAV and counter UAV services, advanced training, logistics and life support, fleet maintenance, construction, contingency operations, emergency response, and tailored unique capabilities to support a wide variety of mission requirements. At Constellis, our number one priority is securing customers' success.

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SOURCE Constellis
Retailer reveals all-new, can't-miss deals from Oct. 26 through Dec. 24 , new ways to make the holidays easier like holiday light hanging and same-day delivery, and "Mr. Christmas" approved gifts and decor new this year for the home

MOORESVILLE, N.C. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- As customers continue to extend the joy of the holidays each year, Lowe's today announced plans to support shoppers' needs all season long in new ways, including a wave of ongoing offerings and sales events with new deals every single week. Customers can look forward to same-day delivery on eligible online purchases in select zip codes, services like holiday light hanging for the home with Angi, the rollout of the new Lowe's Lowest Price Guarantee and exclusively curated gift and decor guides from platinum-selling recording artist Brett "Mr. Christmas" Eldredge. Lowe's is the official decor sponsor of Eldredge's annual Glow LIVE holiday tour, a beloved Christmas-time tradition. The 14-date-run will make stops in major cities across the country, including back-to-back nights in Nashville , New York City and Chicago .

"This holiday season, Lowe's is offering new, can't-miss deals every single week and convenient services to make the holidays easier for all," said Jennifer Wilson , Lowe's senior vice president, enterprise brand and marketing. "We will have the best appliance deals this Black Friday and will offer new deals through Dec. 24  all of which is bolstered by our Lowest Price Guarantee, where we will match a qualifying lower price on an exact item. Regardless of whether you're a DIYer or a Pro, we have ways to save both time and money when customers choose Lowe's this holiday season."

New Deals Every Week

Customers can save on everything from trending and stylish decor to gifts and essentials for holiday home prep, including:

Black Friday Every Day: Available from Oct. 26 to Nov. 22 in-store and online, customers can shop early and often with deals on top-rated products and brands, getting ahead of decorating, holiday hosting and gifting.

Available from in-store and online, customers can shop early and often with deals on top-rated products and brands, getting ahead of decorating, holiday hosting and gifting. Lowe's PROvember : To celebrate its Pro customers, Lowe's annual PROvember savings event is returning Oct. 26 to Nov. 22 . Pros can restock and recharge for the year ahead with extra savings on products from trusted Pro brands such as DeWalt and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams paint. Plus, MVPs Pro Rewards and Partnership Program members can earn up to three bonus points per dollar* on select brands and products, including Klein Tools and Little Giant Ladders.

: To celebrate its Pro customers, annual PROvember savings event is returning . Pros can restock and recharge for the year ahead with extra savings on products from trusted Pro brands such as DeWalt and HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams paint. Plus, MVPs Pro Rewards and Partnership Program members can earn up to three bonus points per dollar* on select brands and products, including and Little Giant Ladders. Black Friday Golden Gable Deals: From Nov. 23 to Nov. 29 , customers can shop additional deals and doorbusters on top-rated decor and sought-after categories, including appliances, tools and more. *Online Only* Thanksgiving Day : Shop exclusive Thanksgiving deals on Lowes.com. Black Friday: Play the Lowe's Golden Gable Spin For A Chance To Win Instant Win Game for a chance to win a $10,000 Lowe's e-gift card or one of other e-gift card prizes with a total value of over $200,000 **. Cyber Deals: Shop can't-miss deals exclusively online from Nov. 25 to Nov. 29 .

From , customers can shop additional deals and doorbusters on top-rated decor and sought-after categories, including appliances, tools and more. 25 Days of Deals: From Nov. 30 to Dec. 24 , Lowe's 25 Days of Deals event will offer new promotions in-store and online with same-day delivery for last-minute gifters, including a wide variety of big and small appliances and select tools and accessories.

In-Demand Gifts and Decor

Lowe's has upgraded all full-sized in-store artificial trees this year with energy-saving LED lighting, including in-demand pencil and flocked trees to complete every room and nook. Also new this year, select tree styles will come with matching garlands, wreaths and potted specialty trees to bring a cohesive look into shoppers' homes. For ease of styling, Lowe's has refreshed its ornament offerings to include shatterproof ornaments in five mix-and-matchable color schemes.

Customers can also visit Lowe's Gift Zone for a multitude of gift ideas  at a range of values  in one convenient location, whether they're shopping for top tools and apparel from brand favorites such as Carhartt, Craftsman, FLEX and Kobalt, or stocking stuffers, smart home products and more unique, unexpected gifts.

For more information about Lowe's seasonal events and offerings, or to shop the brand's Brett "Mr. Christmas" Eldredge curations and deals, visit Lowes.com.

Convenient and Time-Saving Services

Lowe's will offer same-day fulfillment services on hundreds of items, including but not limited to building materials, decor, and seasonal and outdoor living products on days of business operation*** to ensure customers get what they need for the holidays when they need it. As part of the company's longstanding tradition, Lowe's stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day to give customers and associates time to spend and celebrate with their loved ones.

Additionally, Lowe's is excited to bring customers an easy and convenient option for hanging their holiday lights this season through the home services platform, Angi. Customers can visit a Lowe's store or Lowes.com to learn more about scheduling both the setup and removal of their holiday lights directly with Angi.

Lowe's also offers a full suite of financing options with affordable monthly payments to help customers get ready for the holidays.

Same-Day Delivery available for eligible in-stock orders placed by 2 p.m. in select zip codes, subject to driver availability. If any item ordered is out-of-stock, entire same-day or next-day delivery order will be canceled. Fees vary based on purchase. Additional terms apply. See Lowes.com for more details. Tree delivery fees vary by order size, offered in select stores.

*Bonus Points calculated before taxes and fees, after applicable discounts, if any. Program subject to Program Terms & Conditions. Details at Lowes.com/L/ProLoyaltyTerms. Subject to change.

**NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Promotion begins 5 a.m. ET on Nov. 24, 2023 and ends at 4 a.m. ET on Nov. 25, 2023 . Open to legal residents of 50 U.S. states/DC, 18+ and age of majority. Limit 1 entry per person; 1 winner per household. For Official Rules, odds, prize details and restrictions, visit https://www.lowes.com/pdf/lowes_golden_gable_official_rules.pdf. Void where prohibited. Message and data rates may apply. Sponsor: Lowe's Home Centers, LLC 1000 Lowe's Blvd., Mooresville, NC 28117. An entrant cannot participate solely by scanning the QR code.

***Lowe's same-day fulfillment services will not be available on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day .

About Lowe's

Lowe's Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE 50 home improvement company serving approximately 17 million customer transactions a week in the U.S. With total fiscal year 2022 sales of over $97 billion, approximately $92 billion of sales were generated in the U.S., where Lowe's operates over 1,700 home improvement stores and employs approximately 300,000 associates. Based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe's supports the communities it serves through programs focused on creating safe, affordable housing and helping to develop the next generation of skilled trade experts. For more information, visit Lowes.com.

Contact:

MJ Wilson

Lowe's Companies, Inc.

[email protected]

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SOURCE Lowe's Companies, Inc.
After mitigating targeted DDoS attacks against a major bank, Lumen urges implementation of comprehensive DDoS mitigation

DENVER , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- New data from the Lumen Technologies (NYSE: LUMN) Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) mitigation platform landed the banking industry in the unenviable position of being the most targeted vertical of Q3 2023. This is the first time the banking industry topped Lumen's "most targeted verticals" list and was largely due to the events of a single day: Sept. 21, 2023 .

For the first time ever, banking was the most-targeted industry for both DDoS and application-layer attacks in Q3 2023.

On that day, a single banking customer was targeted with more than 230 DDoS attacks  a whopping 4,500% increase over the daily average for that industry  yet it experienced no downtime. Had the attackers been successful, they could have caused significant damage in the form of lost business, remediation costs and reputational damage.

"The successful mitigations for this banking customer can be traced back to Lumen's multi-layered approach to DDoS mitigation," said Brett Lemarinel , director of unified threat management for Lumen. "It starts at our network, where countermeasures are built in, and our intelligent routing technology, which sends excess traffic through our 500+ scrubbing locations. Our DDoS customers have an added layer of protection from Rapid Threat Defense, our proprietary capability that utilizes threat intelligence from Lumen Black Lotus Labs to block DDoS botnet traffic before it reaches the customer's environment."

Read the Lumen Q3 2023 DDoS and Application Threat Report for the latest stats.

Lemarinel continued, "This should be a warning to all other businesses. More than 230 mitigations in a single day suggests the threat actor was determined to wreak havoc on this customer. Even though the attacker failed, the activity we saw on Sept. 21 is a potent reminder that any business can be in an attacker's crosshairs on any given day."

Other notable findings in the report include:

A never-before-seen, four-vector combination was attempted during the Sept. 21 event. The four-vector combination included DNS Amplification, IP Fragmentation, Invalid Packets and Static Filtering. Cyber attackers frequently modify their vector combinations as they attempt to defeat mitigation strategies, but the Lumen DDoS mitigation platform has the flexibility required to recognize and stop these attacks before they impact the targeted customers.

event. The total number of attacks decreased in Q3 2023. Attackers frequently run their operations like a business and, as with any business, cyberattacks have seasonal ups and downs. In Q3 2023, Lumen mitigated 4,217 attacks, which was a 23% quarter-over-quarter decrease and a 24% annual decrease.

The banking industry was also the most-targeted vertical for application threats, according to Lumen's application protection partner, ThreatX. Among all industries, the highest percentage of blocked traffic (25.5%) came from programmatic access, which are suspicious, automated attempts to access a web application. This number is up 89% from the previous quarter. The banking sector experienced a significant percentage of "Attacks Against Authentication" (nearly 25%), which are used to gain unauthorized access to financial data. Financial institutions are attractive to attackers, as evidenced by the high attack ratio and combination of brute-force attacks that targeted banks in Q3. Protecting financial data is paramount, but robust web application and API protection solutions can help protect the industry.



"The Q3 ThreatX application attack analysis underscores the critical importance of bot protection and the need for awareness of industry-specific threats," said Neil Weitzel , director, Security Operations Center at ThreatX. "The especially high number of programmatic access threats this quarter underscores the prevalence of bots in API and application attacks. In addition, our findings reveal variations in threats across industries, so businesses must stay vigilant and proactive to safeguard their applications and APIs."

Additional resources

About Lumen Technologies

Lumen connects the world. We are igniting business growth by connecting people, data, and applications  quickly, securely, and effortlessly. Everything we do at Lumen takes advantage of our network strength. From metro connectivity to long-haul data transport to our edge cloud, security, and managed service capabilities, we meet our customers' needs today and as they build for tomorrow. For news and insights visit news.lumen.com, LinkedIn: /lumentechnologies, Twitter: @lumentechco, Facebook: /lumentechnologies, Instagram: @lumentechnologies, and YouTube: /lumentechnologies.

About ThreatX

ThreatX is managed API and application protection that lets you secure them with confidence, not complexity. It blocks botnets and advanced attacks in real time, letting enterprises keep attackers at bay without lifting a finger. Trusted by companies in every industry across the globe, ThreatX profiles attackers and blocks advanced risks to protect APIs and applications 24/7. Learn more at https://www.threatx.com.

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SOURCE Lumen Technologies
Advisor moves from Independent Financial Group to Cetera Wealth Management Group

LOS ANGELES , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Cetera Financial Group (Cetera), the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub, announced that Mackenzie Martin ** has joined Cetera Advisor Networks via Cetera Wealth Management Group. Within Cetera Wealth Management Group, Martin will join North Star Resource Group with the leadership of Ed Deutschlander . Martin is a financial professional previously affiliated with Independent Financial Group. She provides comprehensive financial planning and investment advice to clients and had an AUA of about $40 million in assets under administration* as of May 31, 2023 .

"We welcome Mackenzie to our community of talented advisors at Cetera Wealth Management Group," said Kjirsten Zellmer , president of Cetera Wealth Management Group. "I look forward to seeing how Mackenzie leverages our unique combination of independence and relationships at Cetera's level, in partnership with North Star Resource Group to bring an even better quality of life to her clients. We're a group of advisors who exemplify a growth mindset, and I feel confident Mackenzie will thrive in this environment."

Martin has 15 years of experience in the industry and holds both the Series 7 and Series 65 registrations. She offers a wide range of services including retirement preparation, college funding options, insurance needs and more. Martin grew up in Seattle, Wash. , and later moved to Oregon to attend Oregon State University, where she graduated magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree.

Cetera Wealth Management Group was formed after Cetera acquired the retail wealth business of Securian Financial Group, Inc. in August 2023 . More than 91% of the invited Securian professionals, representing more than $50 billion in assets, made the choice to join Cetera and to form Cetera Wealth Management Group, which is in line with Cetera's transition projections. The transaction is the largest in Cetera's history.

Click here for more information about Cetera Advisor Networks, click here for more about Cetera Wealth Management Group and click here for more information about North Star Resource Group.

About Cetera Financial Group

Cetera Financial Group (Cetera) is the premier financial advisor Wealth Hub where financial advisors and institutions optimize their control and value creation. Breaking away from a commoditized and homogenous IBD model, Cetera offers financial professionals and institutions the latest solutions, support, and services to grow, scale, or transition with a merger, sale, investment, or succession plan. Cetera proudly serves independent financial advisors, tax professionals, licensed administrators, large enterprises, as well as institutions, such as banks and credit unions, providing an established and repeatable blueprint for scalable growth.

Home to more than 9,000 financial professionals and their teams, Cetera oversees approximately $374 billion in assets under administration and $145 billion in assets under management, as of September 25, 2023 . In a recent advisor satisfaction survey of more than 21,000 reviews, Cetera's Voice of Customer (VoC) program vigorously measures advisor experience and satisfaction 24/7. Currently, it's ranked 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Visit www.cetera.com, and follow Cetera on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

"Cetera Financial Group" refers to the network of independent retail firms encompassing, among others, Cetera Advisors LLC, Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, Cetera Investment Services LLC (marketed as Cetera Financial Institutions or Cetera Investors), and Cetera Financial Specialists LLC. All firms are FINRA/SIPC members. Located at: 655 W. Broadway , 11th Floor, San Diego , CA 92101.

Individuals affiliated with Cetera firms are either Registered Representatives who offer only brokerage services and receive transaction-based compensation (commissions), Investment Adviser Representatives who offer only investment advisory services and receive fees based on assets, or both Registered Representatives and Investment Adviser Representatives, who can offer both types of services.

*Value approximated based on asset holding details provided to Cetera.

**Registered Representative offering securities through Cetera Advisor Networks LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

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SOURCE Cetera Financial Group
GAINESVILLE, Fla. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- In a noteworthy achievement, Mark Avera, an esteemed partner at Avera & Smith, LLP, has been welcomed as a distinguished member of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers (IATL) in 2023.

The International Academy of Trial Lawyers, renowned for its stringent selection process, maintains an exclusive membership of just 500 Fellows from the United States , alongside Fellows from nearly 40 countries worldwide. IATL is committed to recognizing and honoring legal professionals who have, throughout their careers, demonstrated exceptional expertise in jury trials, court trials, and appellate practice. Membership is open to both civil practitioners, serving as advocates for both plaintiffs and defendants, as well as those proficient in the trial of criminal cases. Prospective members must have achieved the highest echelons of advocacy. A rigorous evaluation procedure, involving both peer and judicial reviews, identifies the most preeminent figures in the field of trial law. Mark Avera's professional standing and capabilities have been assessed by his peers and the judiciary in his jurisdiction, earning him high praise for possessing the qualifications and attributes characteristic of an IATL Fellow.

Established in 1954, the Academy's overarching mission is to foster the science of jurisprudence, advocate for legal reform, facilitate the administration of justice, and elevate standards of integrity, honor, and civility within the legal profession.

For Mark Avera , this induction holds profound significance. As the son of Bill Avera , the founder of Avera & Smith, LLP, who was inducted into IATL in 1982, Mark aspires to emulate the unwavering professionalism and dedication to the legal profession that his father exemplified during his decades of service to the people of Florida . This membership is a testament to Mark's commitment to continuing the enduring legacy of excellence associated with the Avera family name.

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SOURCE Avera & Smith
In assessments of companies committed to ESG best practices in the agricultural chain in the states of Para, Mato Grosso and Rondonia , the Company obtained 100% compliance in social and environmental assessments.

SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Minerva Foods, the leading beef exporter in South America and one of the largest companies in the production and sale of fresh meat and its derivatives in the region, has achieved 100% social and environmental compliance in the states of Para, Mato Grosso and Rondonia , in audits supervised by the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office, the main auditor of the Brazilian production chain. The Company received the highest possible score for the fifth consecutive year in the latest assessment cycle in Para.

The initiative focuses on analysing the legal, environmental and social aspects of cattle ranching. It requires protein-producing companies to verify that the properties they work with meet the socio-environmental criteria set out in the Amazon Cattle Supplier Monitoring Protocol.

The commitments made by Minerva Foods help prevent the sourcing of raw materials from areas affected by illegal deforestation, land grabbing and slave labour. In addition, these commitments help prevent the sourcing of raw materials from protected area, indigenous lands and lands owned by the descendants of freed slaves.

"This achievement highlights our commitment to the sustainable development of the agricultural chain and our continuous efforts to ensure that we are increasingly aligned with ESG best practices. In the last four audit cycles we have achieved excellent results in Para and we have now been recognized with the highest scores in two additional states in which we operate," states Tamara Lopes , Executive Manager of Sustainability at Minerva Foods.

An industry leader in supplier monitoring - Minerva Foods pioneers initiatives aimed at tackling illegal deforestation and climate change linked to land conversion in South America . In recent years, the Company has intensified its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, mitigate climate change and promote the production of low carbon beef.

In Brazil (Amazon, Cerrado, Pantanal, Caatinga and Atlantic Forest ), Paraguay and Colombia , the Company has pioneered the use of geographical information systems in all the biomes in which it operates, monitoring 100% of its direct suppliers. Progress is also being achieved in Argentina , where around 90% of direct suppliers are currently being monitored, and in Uruguay , where more than 20% of direct suppliers are already being monitored, with the aim of monitoring all suppliers by 2030 and 2025 respectively.

Recognizing that efforts to strengthen traceability in the chain must be a joint effort, Minerva Foods has launched the first mobile application designed for livestock ranchers throughout Brazil . This application allows them to track their own suppliers. Developed in partnership with Niceplanet Geotecnologia, SMGeo Prospec enables socio-environmental analysis of the agribusiness production chain.

By using the app, ranchers have access to the same technology that the Company uses in its supplier analysis, monitoring systems and risk mapping for all cattle purchases. By making SMGeo Prospec available to the supply chain, Minerva Foods has facilitated the monitoring of its suppliers and reduced the risks associated with cattle from areas that do not comply with social and environmental standards and legislation. To date, more than 2,000 vouchers have been distributed to producers.

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SOURCE Minerva Foods
Daily nonstop service to Music City takes off June 2024

ONTARIO, Calif. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontario International Airport (ONT) officials welcomed the announcement that Southwest Airlines will add daily nonstop service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) beginning June 4 th next year. The new service is now available for booking at Southwest.com.

"Our friends at Southwest Airlines have a wonderful home at Ontario International, and we couldn't be more pleased by their continued commitment to our airport, and the addition of new service to Nashville ," said Atif Elkadi , CEO of the Ontario International Airport . "This nonstop link to Nashville will allow visitors from Tennessee the opportunity to experience everything that Southern California and the Inland Empire have to offer, while also providing seamless connecting opportunities for travelers from our region visiting the East Coast and the Southeast."

Nashville will become Southwest's 12th nonstop destination from ONT while Music City will be the Southern California gateway's 24th nonstop destination overall.

News of the ONT-BNA service, announced earlier today, comes just weeks after Ontario earned the highest score among California airports in the prestigious J.D. Power 2023 North America Airport Satisfaction Study which rated airports on their terminal facilities, airport arrival/departure, baggage claim, security check, check-in/baggage check and food, beverage and retail offerings.

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States , according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California . It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S. , Mexico , Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X, and Instagram

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA leaders include Ontario City Council Member Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

ONT Media Contact:

Steve Lambert , (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

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SOURCE Ontario International Airport
WYALUSING, Pa. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Peoples Ltd. (OTC: PPLL). Anthony J. Gabello , President and Chief Executive Officer of Peoples Ltd., holding company for PS Bank, has announced results for the third quarter 2023.

Net income for the third quarter of 2023 was $1,750,000 or $2.25 per share. Net income for the third quarter of 2023 represents a decrease of 6.42% from the third quarter 2022 net income of $1,870,000 . Consolidated net income year-to-date 2023 was $5,541,000 or $7.12 earnings per share, an increase of 9.16% from consolidated year-to-date income of $5,076,000 or $6.52 earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 .

Year-to-date return on assets was 1.41% as of September 30, 2023 compared to 1.35% for the same period in 2022. Year-to-date return on average equity was 16.92% as of September 30, 2023 compared to the prior year-to-date of 15.59%.

Total assets increased from second quarter 2023 by $11,728,000 , or 2.23% to $537,961,000 . Total assets decreased 1.55% from year-end December 31, 2022 . Deposits increased from second quarter by $12,399,000 , or 2.69%, to $473,592,000 . Deposits year-to-date 2023 decreased 4.32% from December 31, 2022 . Loans increased over second quarter by $7,460,000 , or 2.2% to $342,922,000 . Loans increased by 8.40% from year-end 2022.

"Overall, our bank continued to perform well in the third quarter of 2023. As experienced throughout the banking industry, deposit pricing pressures continued, resulting in a quarterly net income decline of 6.42% from prior year's third quarter. Despite this, year-to-date net income remains 9.16% above prior year-to-date net income. Deposit pressures were partially offset by strong loan growth, at 8.40% for the year. Even through these pressures, we experienced solid deposit growth in the third quarter after reduced deposit levels in the prior two quarters of 2023. We expect interest expense challenges to persist for the foreseeable future, and continue to work to build a strong balance sheet to combat these pressures going forward. Provision for loan loss expenses increased by $230,000 over prior year to date, primarily the result of our strong loan growth. Salaries and benefits expense increased by approximately $350,000 over prior year to date, as a result of strengthening our team, as well as competitive pressures.

Our strong core levels of deposits and our loyal customer base have been an asset for us during the current economic conditions, which combined with our historically conservative loans-to-deposits ratio, have helped us navigate the current environment.

PS Bank has been ranked as the #42 highest bank on American Banker's list of the Top 200 Community Banks under $2 billion in the United States as published in its June 2023 edition of the magazine. The 2023 ranking marks the eleventh consecutive year that our bank was included among institutions that are ranked based on three-year average Return on Equity (ROAE). For the fourth time in five years, we were the highest-ranked Pennsylvania -based institution on this list. With a three-year average ROAE of 14.84%, PS Bank continues to be a strong bank proudly serving customers throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania ," said Gabello.

Note: This press release may contain forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results and trends could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors. These factors include operating, legal and regulatory risks; changing economic and competitive conditions and other risks and uncertainties.

Peoples Ltd. is the holding company for PS Bank. PS Bank is an independent community bank, established 1914, with locations throughout Bradford , Sullivan , Wyoming , Lackawanna , and Susquehanna counties. Peoples Ltd. is traded in the Over-the-Counter market under the symbol PPLL. Learn more about PS Bank at PSBanking.com .

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SOURCE Peoples Ltd.
Traders sit with their impounded charcoal following the ban outside the regional offices of the National Forestry Authority in Gulu city, northern Uganda.

Earlier this year, Hamidu Ssenyondo, a charcoal trader in northern Uganda, was full of hope as he acquired a loan to help him grow his successful business. Over the past two decades, the 54-year-old had built a reputation for selling quality charcoal  so much so that he became known among his clients as Hajji Magumu, a fond nickname with connotations of durable charcoal. The time was right, he decided, to expand his activities so he could supply more communities in Uganda and perhaps even across its borders.

But Ssenyondos plan didnt go as expected. A mere week after investing his loan, he was arrested by the police. Along with seven other traders, he was charged with contravening a presidential order, issued two months earlier in May, banning the commercial trade of charcoal. The eight businessmen were ordered by a court to pay heavy fines or risk serving three years in jail. Authorities impounded 1,900 bags of charcoal, 200 of which were from Ssenyondo, and auctioned them off. We had to accept anything to get our freedom back, says the father of ten.

President Yoweri Musevenis executive order was aimed at protecting Ugandas environment. In part due to the charcoal industry, the countrys forest cover declined from 24% in 1990 to just 9% in 2018, according to data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Endangered tree species like shea and African Afzelia have been slashed. And deforestation has contributed to the disruption of local weather patterns and agricultural output, with rains becoming more erratic and dry spells getting longer.

The ban of commercial charcoal, whose burning also releases high levels of carbon and other pollutants, has largely been welcomed by environmentalists. However, the policy has also highlighted the complexities of transitioning from dirty energies to cleaner sources, a challenge facing virtually every community and country in the world.

The policy has, for instance, undermined the livelihoods of many people, from direct producers and traders like Ssenyondo to the boda boda taxi drivers who transport the product. In the last few months, at least 28 traders have been charged in court and over thousands of bags of charcoal have been confiscated, representing a huge loss in income and investment. An industry that has boomed in northern Uganda since 2008 when producers rushed to region after the civil war has been upended with little to cushion the effects.

Traders say that the implementation of the ban has been too abrupt. They argue that the government should have given them a grace period in which to quit the industry and sell off their stock. Many feel that they have only been penalized and not supported to transition out of the industry.

Irene Nabantanzi, 34, for instance, faced a triple blow to her finances after she was arrested. She lost 200 bags of charcoal she had invested in to produce, was fined by the courts, and had to pay legal fees to her lawyers. She says she has gone into debt and is unable to pay the laborers she hired to burn the charcoal, who are stuck in the forest without money to return to their home districts. Why do they continue to punish us? she asks of the government. We obeyed everything they asked us to do.

Nabantanzi and others that have had charcoal impounded have been pleading with the National Forestry Authority (NFA) not to auction it off but to sell it back to them at a lower price so they can sell it on and recoup some of their losses  but to no avail.

Charcoal burning in Angagura Pader district, northern Uganda. John Okot

In the absence of alternatives, many traders feel they have little choice but to continue producing charcoal illegally. This is risky but highly lucrative, especially as charcoal prices have soared since the ban, and as demand in both Uganda and neighboring Kenya, which banned charcoal production in 2018, continues to grow.

This has led to a game of cat and mouse between traders and authorities. Some producers now burn wood to produce charcoal at night to evade police patrols and smuggle their goods in food trucks, water tanks, and public buses. In response, authorities have turned to working with community volunteers to monitor hotspots where charcoal burners hide, according to Amuru Resident District Commissioner, Stephen Okello.

For some traders, there is also another option for evading arrest. The only way to avoid getting arrested is to bribe the police at checkpoints  the more money you give, the more charcoal you get to pass, says trader Ismail Nsanja, 42. Thats how things work these days.

National Forestry Authority (NFA) spokesperson, Juliet Mubi, denies knowing anything about such allegations, but an NFA official who requested anonymity echoes them. They say that banning the charcoal trade completely would be difficult in northern Uganda due to a web of powerful soldiers, government officials and wealthy individuals with vested interests in the industry.

President Musevenis executive order also refers to corrupt links between the charcoal industry and state security groups and government agencies. Apparently, armed people escort this charcoal, he writes, adding that locals now hold the security people in great contempt. In fact, these alleged connections are given as a key justification for the ban. In order to save the environment and reputation of the [ruling] NRM, I, therefore, hereby ban the cutting of trees for charcoal burning, he summarizes.

Musevenis executive ban has also created challenges for buyers of charcoal. In Uganda, an estimated 90% of people still rely on biomass for energy and have few readily available alternatives.

Emely Kugonza MP, the former Vice Chairperson of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, says the government should have come up with workable solutions for energy alternatives before issuing the ban. He says that the policy should be reviewed to find a balance between protection of the environment and livelihood enhancement and suggests that the priority ought to be fixing policies to support people to buy and refill gas cylinders.

By contrast, Dickens Kemigisha, Executive Director of African Institute for Energy Governance (AFIEGO), believes the priority should be developing hydropower as the greenest alternative to avoid the unnecessary burning of fossil fuels. Hydropower already contributes 78% of the countrys energy production, according to the Electricity Regulatory Authority. Uganda also exports hydropower to neighbouring countries, yet only 45% of Ugandans, as of 2020, were connected to the domestic grid.

France Atube, an agriculturalist from Gulu University, proposes growing the as yet underdeveloped market for green charcoal, a form of briquette made from agricultural waste. He says this cleaner approach would save the trees and work for rural communities who may not be able to afford alternatives or be connected to the grid. Mubi, from NFA, says the Authority is currently promoting bamboo growing as an alternative source of fuel due to its versatility and speedy growth.

There are numerous promising alternatives to charcoal, in principle, but developing the policies, infrastructure, or markets to make them widely available and accessible cannot happen overnight. As these debates continue, both former sellers and buyers of charcoal wish these conversations had happened before the ban was put in place. They recognize the importance of combatting deforestation and stopping the use of unclean energies but feel like they were sacrificed for the greater good.

We are not against the ban, but we were forced to cut trees to survive, says Ssenyondo. He is pleading for some support or leniency from the government so he can recoup some of his losses and start afresh. That way, I can go back to my home village and look for something to do to look after my family.

This article was initially published in African Arguments.

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171 Employees Honored for Millions of Miles of Safe Driving

KANSAS CITY, Mo. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Postal Service held a National Logistics Symposium for employees from Oct. 24-26 in Kansas City . The symposium provided information on the latest driver technology, safe driving strategies, driver training and an award recognition for USPS tractor trailer operators.

"We want our drivers to return home to their families every night safe and sound. Their safety, along with the safety of the critical cargo they carry, is an important responsibility shouldered by the Postal Service," said Kelly Abney , chief logistics officer and executive vice president. "Safe operations not only ensure our drivers are protected, but also protect the safety of the mail and the American public."

The symposium included training to promote safe driving practices, truck safety rodeo demonstrations and educational sessions.

The Postal Service also honored 171 tractor trailer drivers with a National Safety Council (NSC) award in recognition of their stellar safe driving records. The NSC Million Mile Award recognizes drivers with 1 million miles of driving or 30 accumulated years driven without preventable incidents.

"I have been employed with the Postal Service for over 30 years and as a tractor trailer operator, I always aim to do my job safely and efficiently," said Carl Elleston , who works at the Brooklyn, NY , Processing and Distribution Center. "I am honored and appreciate that my commitment to safe driving is being recognized."

The Postal Service has a partnership with the NSC to recognize driver excellence. The NSC Million Mile Award is considered the gold standard and highest honor for professional safe driving performance. Reaching this milestone requires an unwavering attention to safety, defensive driving and courteous vehicle operation.

Abney expressed his gratitude for the drivers who qualified for the award. "It is only possible if a driver truly embraces safety as an integral part of his or her daily routine. Few drivers are able to reach this benchmark, and I hope to see all the award recipients reach the 2-million-mile threshold."

The Postal Vehicle Service (PVS) includes more than 11,000 uniformed motor vehicle, tractor trailer and noncommercially licensed operators. The PVS fleet operates over 15,000 assets. Commuting within a 170-mile radius of their facility, PVS drivers traveled more than 167 million miles last year.

Please contact [email protected] for additional truck safety training photos.

Please Note: The United States Postal Service is an independent federal establishment, mandated to be self-financing and to serve every American community through the affordable, reliable and secure delivery of mail and packages to nearly 165 million addresses six and often seven days a week. Overseen by a bipartisan Board of Governors, the Postal Service is implementing a 10-year transformation plan, Delivering for America, to modernize the postal network, restore long-term financial sustainability, dramatically improve service across all mail and shipping categories, and maintain the organization as one of America's most valued and trusted brands.

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For USPS media resources, including broadcast-quality video and audio and photo stills, visit the USPS Newsroom. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the USPS YouTube Channel and like us on Facebook. For more information about the Postal Service, visit usps.com and facts.usps.com.

National: David P. Coleman

[email protected]

usps.com/news

Local: Mark Inglett

[email protected]

usps.com/news

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SOURCE U.S. Postal Service
WASHINGTON , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD), a nonprofit organization leading the fight to end Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne), welcomed today's decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve AGAMREE (vamorolone) a dissociative steroid indicated for individuals diagnosed with Duchenne from age two years and older. AGAMREE marks a significant milestone as the second therapy approved for Duchenne that is applicable regardless of the specific genetic mutation. It is the seventh approved therapy for Duchenne in the United States . AGAMREE will be made available and marketed in the United States by Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, which entered into an agreement with Santhera Pharmaceuticals in June 2023 for exclusive North America commercialization rights.

"PPMD is thrilled that the FDA has approved AGAMREE, a steroid alternative therapy that aims to retain the beneficial anti-inflammatory and muscle strengthening aspects of corticosteroids, while decreasing some of the undesirable side effects such as bone fragility, delayed growth, insulin resistance, and behavior changes. Today's approval has the potential to offer patients a therapy option with better tolerability, addressing a significant unmet need in our community," said PPMD Founding President and CEO Pat Furlong .

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the patients and their families who participated in these trials, as well as to ReveraGen BioPharma, Santhera Pharmaceuticals, and the many dedicated clinicians and scientists who have tirelessly worked to develop this therapy. We also want to commend FDA leadership for recognizing the potential of AGAMREE to make a difference in the lives of individuals living with Duchenne," Furlong added. "PPMD is pleased to have collaborated with other foundations and community partners to support the early development of vamorolone. We are thrilled to see the approval of another therapeutic option for Duchenne."

PPMD will host a community webinar on Wednesday, November 1st at 1:00 PM ET with Dr. Aravindhan Veerapandiyan (Arkansas Children's Hospital) to discuss the approval of AGAMREE and what it means for individuals living with Duchenne. Register now and submit your questions in advance.

PPMD will also host a webinar on Wednesday, November 15th at 1:00 PM ET with Catalyst Pharmaceuticals, the drug company responsible for the commercialization of AGAMREE, to provide an explanation of the drug, its label, and eligibility criteria. Register now and submit your questions in advance here.

"Going forward, PPMD remains committed to working with all stakeholders and the community to do all we possibly can to ensure all patients who are eligible for AGAMREE obtain access to the drug. It is not enough to clear the FDA. We must make sure that all those who can benefit from these innovative therapies are able to access them as they reach the market," said Furlong. "Additionally, PPMD believes that it will take a combination of therapies to fully halt progression and will continue to support the development of additional tools and resources to accelerate the development and approval of additional therapies and treatments for Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy."

PPMD provided philanthropic investment to ReveraGen for the development of VPB15 (vamorolone). As part of that agreement PPMD will recover that investment and additional payment from ReveraGen if vamorolone attains specific commercial milestones. Any returns will be reinvested in programs supporting PPMD's mission.

PPMD employs a comprehensive approach to identify opportunities to accelerate development of all therapies in Duchenne, including regulatory, research, and patient-recruitment counsel to help expedite the progress of investigational products. PPMD's patient-report registry, The Duchenne Registry, as well as PPMD's Duchenne Outcomes Research Interchange , serve as resources for researchers and industry to access aggregated, de-identified information provided by patients and families. Additionally, PPMD remains committed to its sector-leading patient engagement efforts, which include multiple patient preference studies and a revised community-generated draft guidance document, recently updated to reflect advancements in knowledge, understanding, care, clinical trials, and approvals. PPMD also takes a lead role in advocating for national newborn screening efforts for Duchenne, Becker, and carrier identification, as well as policy efforts around access and reimbursement.

ABOUT PARENT PROJECT MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

Duchenne is a genetic disorder that slowly robs people of their muscle strength. Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) fights every single battle necessary to end Duchenne.

We demand optimal care standards and ensure every family has access to expert healthcare providers, cutting edge treatments, and a community of support. We invest deeply in treatments for this generation of Duchenne patients and in research that will benefit future generations. Our advocacy efforts have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in funding and won seven FDA approvals.

Everything we doand everything we have done since our founding in 1994helps those with Duchenne live longer, stronger lives. We will not rest until we end Duchenne for every single person affected by the disease. Join our fight against Duchenne at EndDuchenne.org. Follow PPMD on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

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SOURCE Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD)
The Profesor Douglas A. Melton opens the door to cure type 1 diabetes

BOSTON , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Professor Douglas A . Melton's studies focus on curing type 1 diabetes through transplants of insulin-producing cells, particularly pancreatic beta cells, which measure glucose levels and secrete the right amount of insulin, achieving a "functional cure" in type 1 diabetes patients in clinical trials. This is one of the most disruptive scientific discoveries of our time with important medical, and even social implications.

For this important scientific breakthrough, Professor Melton , co-director of Harvard Stem Cell Institute, researcher at Howard Hughes Institute of Medicine and distinguished research fellow at Vertex Pharmaceuticals in Boston , was received by His Majesty the King of Spain in recognition for being honoured with the third edition of the ABARCA PRIZE, the Doctor Juan Abarca International Award for Medical Science. Dr. Juan Abarca and Dra. Elena Abarca , president and vice president of HM Hospitales, respectively, and Professor Alberto Munoz , president of the Fundacion de Investigacion HM Hospitales (FiHM) also attended the meeting.

Professor Melton , who received 100.000 euros and a certified diploma for the prize, commented that "I am very excited and delighted about the 'ABARCA PRIZE' award and I want to thank the Abarca Cidon family and the FiHM. But for me the greatest reward would be that my children would never have to take insulin injections. For any father, seeing that he can get his children free from an illness is the greatest reward I can aspire to. My commitment is that a child who is currently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can think that he will have a cure, and I have no reason to believe that it is not possible. My message is a message of hope for them."

Melton is currently working with his team and different pharmaceutical companies on different clinical trials to develop cell therapy as a new treatment for type 1 diabetes. "Possibly the two most important changes in research are the ability to modify genes and the use of stem cells. The combination of both will provide new treatments for many diseases." Melton concluded.

PICTURES - https://www.abarcaprize.com/press-room/

For more information: www.abarcaprize.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258711/Audiencia_Casa_Real.jpg

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SOURCE Abarca Prize
The homologous-use application validated by Dr. Ryan Robinson and NP Rachel Reynolds sets a precedent for non-surgical allograft application.

PENSACOLA, Fla. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Regenative Labs (Regenative), a leading HCT/P manufacturer, announces the publication of a case study demonstrating new care advancements using its Wharton's Jelly allografts in the supplementation of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) defects. The case study titled "Single-Center Retrospective Study of Flowable Umbilical Cord Tissue Allograft Application in Temporomandibular Joint Defects: An Investigative Study," was published by Walsh Medical Media and can be accessed in its entirety here.

Board-certified sleep medicine and craniofacial pain specialists Dr. Ryan Robinson and NP Rachel Reynolds of The Pain and Sleep Therapy Center presented a novel case series studying the application of Wharton's Jelly, an umbilical cord connective tissue, to the structural tissue defect of the temporomandibular joint. This homologous use application validated by Robinson and Reynolds sets a precedent for non-surgical allograft application.

"We've seen a decrease in terms of healing time for patients when we've compared it to other types of injections that we've used previously for patients with temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). We've also seen improvement in outcomes for patients who've been utilizing Wharton's Jelly in conjunction with other types of modalities that we've used for these patients," shared NP Rachel Reynolds .

Nearly 10 million patients suffer from TMD in the United States each year. These patients often experience symptoms ranging from joint arthralgia, displacement, degenerative arthritis, limited and painful mouth opening, painful subluxation of the joint, joint clicking, and referred pain to the periauricular area or head and neck muscles. Although there are many treatments for TMD, therapy specific to degenerative pathology of the TMJ disc itself is limited in scope and therapeutic effect.

Standard treatment includes simply resting the jaw muscles and avoiding use, massage, physical therapy, medication management, and, when all else fails, surgery. The rising annual number of surgeries and high out-of-pocket costs for patients, overall treatment costs ranging from 5,000-50,000 USD , are enough to implement conservative protocols alternative to invasive surgical repair of the TMJ.

"Today, we see many physicians who are wary about treating TMJ and often revert to standard surgical treatments. Showing the outcomes that we have for patients will hopefully help to bolster more physicians to join us in using more conservative treatments. Our patients deserve more options," concluded Reynolds.

The five patients in this case series presented with chronic refractory TMD, specifically from severe degeneration of the structural tissues within the joint, and had failed standard-of-care practices for at least three months. After one application of Regenative's Wharton's Jelly allograft, the patient's pain improved by an average of 75% after 90 days.

"A few years ago, we started using PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) therapy in the jaw joint, and we thought that was revolutionary. We have seen amazing results; however, the protocol involves additional technology like a centrifuge and consists of multiple rounds of injections to get the desired outcome. It also subjectively eliminates some patients from treatment who are opposed to blood draws on themselves. With Wharton's Jelly, there is only one injection, which makes the application much easier, more convenient, and less invasive to the patient. What's most exciting is the results we are seeing! We're seeing much better patient outcomes than any other modality we've ever treated. We're really excited to continue the use of Wharton's Jelly in our Pain and Sleep clinic, and it soon becoming a routine standard for our patients who can benefit," shared Dr. Ryan Robinson .

To advance the necessary research and fill the need for non-surgical alternatives, Regenative has been tracking data in its comprehensive retrospective data repository in which physicians across specialties submit patient data as they track patient outcomes up to 120 days after the patient receives an application of Regenative's products, like its Wharton's Jelly allografts.

Regenative has collected data from clinics nationwide on Wharton's Jelly homologous-use applications around the body. Still, very few have documented data on the jaw joint, and Regenative is excited to highlight this unique procedure in the first of many publications on regenerative orthodontic medicine.

"Given the high incidence rate and few effective treatment options for defects in the Temporomandibular Joint, this study aims to provide a new, promising alternative intervention for patients who have failed all other standard-of-care treatments. This is just one of many homologous-use applications in regenerative medicine to improve patient outcomes," shared Regenative Labs CEO Tyler Barrett .

Barrett and his team hope to enlist physicians to take part in studies regarding uncovered uses. Physicians will have their outcomes highlighted, furthering the understanding of regenerative medicine and uncovering new applications for this groundbreaking field of medicine.

"We're doing the research at Regenative, and the results are very promising. We are calling on all physicians across the country to engage with us to advance the field of regenerative medicine," Barrett concluded.

Contact Regenative to get your practice involved today. Read the full case study here.

About Regenative Labs: Regenative Labs produces regenerative medicine products to address the root cause of a patient's conditions using Wharton's Jelly innovations rather than masking the pain with other treatments. Regenative Labs works closely with scientists, physicians, hospitals, and surgery centers to constantly monitor and improve patient progress and outcomes for new product development. Formed by veteran industry professionals familiar with the daily challenges of innovations in healthcare, the company provides non-addictive, non-invasive options for patients. Regenative Labs' expert product research and development team complies with FDA guidelines of minimal manipulation for homologous use. The company adheres to AATB and FDA guidelines. Learn more at Regenative's website: www.regenativelabs.com

About Dr. Ryan Robinson : Dr. Robinson is Delaware's first and only doctor triple-boarded in Craniofacial Pain and Dental Sleep Medicine. After many years of treating the airway in his general dental practice, Dr. Robinson decided to open up a specialty practice to address the needs of the community. This new practice, called The Pain and Sleep Therapy Center of Delaware Valley, focuses on finding the origin of the problem as opposed to treating it with medications and "band-aid" fixes that have become so routine in today's medical system. Learn more at Pain and Sleep Therapy Center's website: https://painandsleepcenter.com/

About Rachel Reynolds : Rachel is a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) who joined the Pain and Sleep team in July 2021 . Originally, Rachel is from upstate New York , where she completed her Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Nursing at Binghamton University. Prior to completing her Master's, Rachel worked in Neurology as a registered nurse, focusing on patients who dealt with chronic pain and headaches. Upon moving to Delaware , Rachel completed a fellowship in Primary Care with Christiana Care. During her fellowship, she identified her passion for comprehensive patient care, which resulted in her devotion to identifying the root cause of her patient's issues. Upon identifying a need for nutritional guidance for our patient population, Rachel acquired a certification in nutrition from the University of Stanford. Rachel is also completing a second master's degree program in Psychiatry at this time to better assist patients and provide a more comprehensive scope of practice. Learn more at Pain and Sleep Therapy Center's website: https://painandsleepcenter.com/

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SOURCE Regenative Labs
Merger of leading AIoT Companies will Broaden SaaS offering for AI-based Facility Management Markets Globally

PALO ALTO, Calif. and SEOUL, South Korea , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Scenera , a leading AIoT data management company, today announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire TnM AI Co. Ltd., a Seoul -based AIoT company, for an undisclosed amount. Stemming from the successful long-time collaboration between the two companies, this transaction furthers their relationship and consolidates their resources to continue creating products and solutions transforming the industry on a global scale.

Merger of Scenera and TnM AI will Broaden SaaS offering for AI-based Facility Management Markets Globally

"With the combination of our strong development teams and global deployment, we are mutually committed to providing optimal solutions that address the growing problem of how to best allocate AI analytics in edge-to-cloud computing," said David Lee , CEO of Scenera. "Together, we can create and deliver unparalleled value and optimal solutions for our customers and partners."

Building on TnM AI's strong retail presence with its AIoT-based energy management software as a service (SaaS) and Scenera's MAIstro AI Topology Manager (SATM), this acquisition brings together an impressive set of capabilities and technology for continued growth and opportunity. The collaboration between both companies has built a standard data processing platform for existing AIoT devices and IP cameras to be used in smart buildings and retail industriescentralizing data management and analysis while offering multiple use cases that deliver value to building owners, facility managers and occupants. The transaction is synergistic and helps expand the target markets with proven solutions by both companies. TnM AI's Retail Environment Management System (REMS) will be integrated into MAIstro brand and offered globally.

"Our teams have worked hand-in-hand to serve our customers with our AI-powered REMS (Retail Energy Management Service) and security and surveillance management SaaS solutions," said Dr. Eui-Seok Hwang , CEO of TnM AI. "We are thrilled to join forces with an industry leader like Scenera and embark on a new chapter, as this acquisition marks an exciting opportunity for us to leverage our combined capabilities to enhance performance on a global level."

The transaction is expected to be accretive to Scenera's financials.

About Scenera

Scenera is forging a new standard data platform for the AIoT industry, by combining an open and flexible architecture with an intelligent scene-based data pipeline. The result is a paradigm shift from simple streaming data to rich scene data information that enables new and powerful analytical capabilities. For more information, please visit www.scenera.net .

About TnM AI Co. Ltd.

TnM AI Co. Ltd. is a professional IoT company and offers a full range of services including Software development, Edge AI provisioning, Tailored AI Integration, Continuous enhancement, and is offering Extensible Camera-based AI system which analyzes real-time streaming video. TnM AI provides these services in multiple industries such as retail, commercial real estate properties, power industry, and manufacturing operations.

MEDIA CONTACT

Lydia You | Scenera, Inc.

[email protected]

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SOURCE Scenera
School of Rock is one of just 50 franchises to be recognized for strong financial performance and high franchisee satisfaction based on a survey of nearly 38,000 franchise owners



Independent research data shows franchisees are highly satisfied with School of Rock's innovation and creativity

CANTON, Mass. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- School of Rock , the leader in performance-based music education, was named among the top 50 Most Profitable Franchises and the top 100 Most Innovative Franchises by Franchise Business Review in its 2023 report.

"To be named among the Most Profitable and Top 100 Most Innovative Franchises of 2023 underscores our unwavering dedication to delivering outstanding music education while also ensuring the success and satisfaction of our franchise owners," said Rob Price , CEO of School of Rock. "We are driven by our mission to enrich lives through music and we'll continue to innovate and grow guided by the feedback and trust of our franchise family."

School of Rock was among the 385 franchise brands, representing nearly 38,000 franchise owners, that participated in Franchise Business Review research for this year's Most Profitable Franchises and Most Innovative Franchises . School of Rock franchisees were polled on 33 benchmark questions for each survey about their brand's experience and overall satisfaction, the brand's innovation and creativity, as well as their trust in the franchisor and likelihood to recommend it to others.

"Owner satisfaction, profitability, and long-term return on your investment are three of the most critical factors anyone should consider before investing in any franchise business," said Eric Stites, founder and CEO of Franchise Business Review. "If you take the time to do your research, you have a much better chance of finding a franchise that offers both a strong financial opportunity, as well as extremely high satisfaction among their franchise owners. Our goal is to assist prospective franchise owners by providing an independent rating of franchise opportunities based on feedback from current franchisees. The companies on the list of the Most Profitable Franchises offer a better than average shot at growing your income and received the highest ratings on our independent franchisee satisfaction survey."

Franchise Business Review, a research firm that performs independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only ratings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes annual rankings of the top franchises in its Guide to Today's Top Franchises , as well as guides throughout the year ranking the top franchises in specific sectors.

"For prospective franchisees, understanding which brands are the most innovative can help you make a confident and smart investment," said Michelle Rowan , president & COO of Franchise Business Review. "Each of the companies on our list of the Most Innovative Franchises has developed and implemented products, processes, or services that enable and sustain growth and long-term relevancy. We are proud to recognize the franchises that prioritize and value innovation to support their franchisees' success and the long-term resiliency of the brand."

School of Rock maintained its impressive upward trajectory in 2023, with significant increases in both sales and enrollment. The average franchised School of Rock in the United States saw a 29% increase in same-school sales compared to the previous year, while average enrollment per unit increased from 170 to 192 students. These figures reflect a thriving brand with a growing global presence. School of Rock currently has over 62,000 students enrolled across 350 open schools spanning 15 countries, with hundreds of additional locations in development.

Visit www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com to see the full description of the 2023 Most Profitable Franchises .

About School of Rock

School of Rock helps aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity, and develop tools they need to thrive in life. Founded as a single school in Philadelphia, Pa. , in 1998, School of Rock has become a rapidly growing international franchise with over 500 schools open and in development across 15 global markets. Since 2009, School of Rock has grown its student count from 4,000 to over 62,000. School of Rock offers a wide variety of music lessons , including guitar lessons , singing lessons and piano lessons . The company also sells musical instruments and music gear through its GearSelect program. School of Rock is proud to support Music Will (formerly Little Kids Rock), the National Museum of African American Music (NMAAM), and the Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide (SPTS). School of Rock was awarded US Patent 10,891,872 in 2021 for its innovative music education method. School of Rock also has garnered the following industry awards: 2023 Global Franchise Grand Champion; 2023, 2022 and 2021 Global Franchise's Awards Best Children's Service and Education Franchise; 2023 Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 Top Children's Music Enrichment Brand; 2021 Franchise Innovation Award for Most Innovative Use of Customer-Facing Digital Tools; Franchise Business Review's 2023 Top 200 Franchises and Culture 200 list; 2020 Entrepreneur Magazine's Top 200 Franchise and the #1 Child Enrichment Franchise; and 2018 Forbes #2 Best Franchise Medium-Level Investment Award and the #1 Music Franchise in America.

Follow School of Rock on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SchoolofRockUSA and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/SchoolofRockUSA .

For more information on School of Rock, visit www.SchoolofRock.com or call 866-695-5515. To learn more about School of Rock franchise opportunities , head to schoolofrock.com/franchising

About Franchise Business Review



Franchise Business Review (FBR) is a leading market research firm serving the franchise sector. FBR measures the satisfaction and engagement of franchisees and franchise employees and publishes various guides and reports for entrepreneurs considering an investment in a franchise business. Since 2005, FBR has surveyed hundreds of thousands of franchise owners and over 1,200 leading franchise companies. FBR publishes free and unbiased franchisee satisfaction research reports throughout the year online at http://www.FranchiseBusinessReview.com . To read our publications, visit https://franchisebusinessreview.com/page/publications/ .

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/school-of-rock-named-a-most-profitable-franchise-and-top-100-most-innovative-franchise-of-2023-by-franchise-business-review-301968691.html

SOURCE School of Rock
NEW YORK , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) has released 276 new part numbers in its October new number announcement. This most recent release provides new coverage in 113 distinct product categories and 118 part numbers for 2022, 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles.

Standard and Four Seasons continue to expand their industry-leading programs for hybrid and electric vehicles.

Standard and Four Seasons continue to expand their industry-leading programs for hybrid and electric vehicles. Standard's latest additions include Park Assist Sensors for the 2022-17 Toyota Prius Prime and Canister Purge Solenoids for the 2022-18 Lexus ES300h. Four Seasons released Hose Assemblies for hybrid vehicles such as the 2022-18 Honda Accord and electric vehicles including the 2021-17 Chevrolet Bolt. Brushless Blower Motors have been introduced for the 2022-16 Mercedes C-Class Hybrid, and Evaporators are now available for the 2022-2020 Ford Interceptor Utility and Lincoln Aviator Hybrid.

Internal combustion engines are evolving to improve fuel economy while reducing emissions, and Standard is continually expanding popular categories for these vehicles. The Standard Variable Valve Timing (VVT) program has grown with the introduction of new Solenoids, Sprockets and Oil Control Valves, while Turbochargers and related components have been released for General Motors, Nissan, Ford and Chrysler vehicles. Emission control products including Fuel Vapor Canisters, EGR Tubes, EGR Valves, Engine Crankcase Breather Hoses and PCV Valves were also added.

Powertrain-Neutral categories such as Active Grille Shutters and Park Assist Sensors represent repair opportunities which didn't exist a few years ago. Active Grille Shutter Assemblies have been introduced for new Ford and Chrysler applications, and Active Grille Shutter Actuators are new for Ford vehicles through model-year 2022. Fourteen Park Assist Sensors have also been added covering popular vehicles like the 2021-20 Cadillac CT5 and 2021-14 Infiniti Q50. Standard has also introduced eighteen new ABS Speed Sensors covering 5 million vehicles.

Jack Ramsey , Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, SMP, stated, "Our October new number announcement provides expansion in over 100 product categories, offering new coverage for countless vehicles in operation. We are pleased to offer this level of coverage to our trusted partners."

Four Seasons has introduced 107 new part numbers, including 63 new Hose Assemblies with domestic and import coverage for over 7 million vehicles in operation, including the 2022-20 Subaru Legacy and Outback and the 2023-20 Ford Transit. New Blower Motors have been introduced for popular vehicles like the 2022-18 Honda Pilot and the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Additional newly released components include Desiccant Bags for 2023-17 RAM ProMasters and Reman Compressors for 1.1 million Ford and Lincoln SUVs.

All new applications are listed in the catalogs found at StandardBrand.com and 4S.com, and in electronic catalog providers.

About SMP

With over 100 years in business, Standard Motor Products, Inc. is a leading independent manufacturer and distributor of premium automotive replacement parts utilized in the maintenance, repair and service of vehicles in the automotive aftermarket industry. In addition, SMP continues to increase its supplier capabilities with a complementary focus on specialized original equipment parts for manufacturers across multiple industries such as agriculture, heavy duty, and construction equipment. SMP sells its products primarily to automotive aftermarket retailers, program distribution groups, warehouse distributors, original equipment manufacturers and original equipment service part operations in the United States , Canada , Europe , Asia , Mexico and other Latin American countries. For more information, download the SMP Parts App or visit SMPcorp.com.

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SOURCE Standard Motor Products, Inc
PASAY CITY, Philippines , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Ten companies from the SM Group were recognized for their excellence in corporate governance in the recently concluded Golden Arrow Awards by the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD).

China Banking Corporation (China Bank), the banking arm of SM Investments Corporation (SM Investments), bagged the highest 5-arrow recognition for two years in a row. SM Prime Holdings, Inc., SM Investments' property business, also attained its second 5-arrow award.

SM Investments, BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO), and Belle Corporation (Belle) notched 4-arrow awards. The companies feted with the 3-arrow recognition were 2GO Group, Inc., and Belle's subsidiaries, Pacific Online Systems Corporation (POSC) and Premium Leisure Corporation. The other awardees from the Group were Atlas Consolidated Mining and Development Corporation and the APC Group, Inc.

"This honor inspires us to continue advocating best practices in corporate governance in serving our stakeholders and communities," said SM Investments Chairman of the Board Amando M. Tetangco , Jr.

The SM Group has been a consistent recipient of the Golden Arrow Award from the ICD since 2018. This year's performance has solidified the Group's commitment in upholding the highest standards of corporate governance as one of the most awarded conglomerates with ten of its companies recognized.

ICD's Golden Arrow recognition is awarded to publicly listed companies in the Philippines based on the ASEAN Corporate Governance Scorecard (ACGS) assessment results.

Established in 1999, the Philippine ICD has been a staunch advocate to establishing and promoting international standards of good corporate governance in the country alongside its regional counterparts.

About SM Investments Corporation

SM Investments Corporation is a leading Philippine company that is invested in market-leading businesses in retail, banking, and property. It also invests in ventures that capture high growth opportunities in the emerging Philippine economy.

SM's retail operations are the country's largest and most diversified with its food, non-food, and specialty retail stores. SM's property arm, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., is the largest integrated property developer in the Philippines with interests in malls, residences, offices, hotels, and convention centers as well as tourism-related property developments. SM's interests in banking are in BDO Unibank, Inc., the country's largest bank, and China Banking Corporation, the fourth largest bank by total assets among private banks.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

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SOURCE SM Investments Corporation
The Paley Center for Media announces the application window is now open for its prestigious Peter Roth Internship Program.

The Peter Roth Internship program is endowed through generous contributions from Ava DuVernay's ARRAY Alliance, The Berlanti Family Foundation, The Chuck Lorre Family Foundation, and The Katie McGrath & J.J. Abrams Family Foundation.

NEW YORK , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Paley Center for Media announces applications are now open for its highly selective Peter Roth Internship Program. The program's mission is to inspire the next generation of television professionals to embody Peter Roth's commitment to innovative storytelling, love for writers, passion for the artform of television, and the importance of nurturing a diverse array of creative voices and portrayals on television. Students will gain first-hand experience in the world of television and access an unparalleled educational experience during this paid apprenticeship opportunity.

"We are thrilled to announce we are now accepting applications for our prestigious Peter Roth Internship Program class of 2024. This best-in-class apprenticeship is designed to inspire the next generation of television professionals to embody Peter Roth's love for the artform of storytelling, gain first-hand business experience, and understand the importance of diverse portrayals in media," said Maureen J. Reidy, President and CEO, The Paley Center for Media. "We thank Greg Berlanti, Ava DuVernay, Chuck Lorre , Katie McGrath , and J.J. Abrams for their tremendous support."

Students are selected for this comprehensive, paid internship through a competitive application process that evaluates their academic achievement, leadership skills, and commitment to the media industry. The Paley Center receives and considers all applications and encourages qualified undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities to apply. Qualified applicants include rising juniors and seniors with a GPA of 3.2 or higher from colleges and universities nationwide, including state and community colleges with excellent media programs. Finalists will be notified by early April 2024 .

Using the renowned Paley Archive, the Paley Center is uniquely positioned to provide an extensive course to help students better understand the importance of authentic storytelling on television. Interns will also attend guest lectures, meet-and-greets, and Q&A sessions with television executives, talent, showrunners, writers, and other members of a creative team to gain an appreciation for the art form. The program will also include first-hand experience working at the Paley Center, along with site visits to networks, studios and/or media companies to provide a valuable understanding of both the business and creative sides of television.

After completing the program, students will join the Paley Intern Alumni Association, where they will continue to receive expert advice and counsel, special networking opportunities and events, and make lifelong connections within the television industry.

About The Paley Center for Media

The Paley Center for Media is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has proudly made its home in NYC for close to 50 years and owns and operates the iconic Paley Museum. Through its respected programming, the Paley Center leads the discussion about the cultural, creative, and social significance of media, drawing upon its curatorial expertise, an international collection, and close relationships with the media community. The general public can participate in Paley programs in both New York and Los Angeles that explore and celebrate the creativity, the innovations, the talent, and the leaders who are shaping media. The public can also access the Paley Center's permanent media collection, The Paley Archive, often referred to as a national treasure, containing over 160,000 television and radio programs and advertisements. Through the global programs of its Media Council and International Council, the Paley Center also serves as a neutral setting where media professionals can engage in discussion and debate about the evolving media landscape. Previously known as The Museum of Television & Radio, the Paley Center was founded in 1975 by William S. Paley , a pioneering innovator in the industry. For more information about The Paley Center for Media, and to learn about the Paley Center's acclaimed programming, please visit paleycenter.org.

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SOURCE The Paley Center for Media
U.S. Patriot, a GALLS company, is donating $735k worth of protective gear to communities across Israel to help in their defense.

LEXINGTON, Ky. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Patriot Tactical, a GALLS company, has donated $735K of protective gear, footwear, eyewear, defense tools, and outerwear to humanitarian organizations in Israel . The gear and equipment will be distributed to the protectors who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of their communities.

U.S. Patriot is donating $735k worth of protective gear to communities across Israel to help in their defense.

"We pride ourselves on providing gear and equipment to protect the protectors across our country. It is our privilege to step up to help communities in Israel who suddenly have enhanced needs to defend themselves," said Mike Fadden , CEO of U.S. Patriot. "There is no way we can repair the losses they have suffered. I hope this contribution will help prevent further loss of lives."

Furthermore, U.S. Patriot, a Charlesbank Capital Partners portfolio company, is excited to launch a website where supporters can donate gear and clothing. On this website, patrons can select and donate items identified in high demand by the agencies protecting Israeli communities. All donations will be dispatched directly to the Israeli organizations in need.

About U.S. Patriot:

For over 20 years, U.S. Patriot Tactical has been dedicated to serving American heroes at home and abroad. As the Nation's largest military supplier, and now as part of the larger GALLS family, we are committed to delivering the highest quality Apparel, Gear, and Footwear so you can focus on your mission. Whether you are a service member abroad, keeping us safe at home, or preparing to tackle life's next adventure, the U.S. Patriot Team is prepared to deliver the service you deserve. With over 70 locations and lightning-fast international shipping through our online store, getting everything, you need to ensure mission success has never been easier.

U.S. Patriot

1340 Russell Cave Road

Lexington, KY 40505

P: 844-877-4327

www.uspatriottactical.com

PR Contact:

Laura Burgess Marketing

[email protected]

P: 603-682-3316

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SOURCE GALLS
That Hamas is not Palestine, nor does it represent all Palestinians, is a premise that is accepted by the international community and by a part of Israeli society, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acts as if they were exactly the same thing. The unjustifiable collective punishment to which the 2.2 million Palestinians living in Gaza are being subjected goes beyond the right to self-defense. The response to the savage attacks of October 7 is absolutely disproportionate.

Crammed into a territory with one of the highest population densities in the world, Gazans are caught between two lethal threats. On the one hand, the total confinement to which Israel has subjected them, ignoring its responsibility as an occupying power since 1967 even though it has not been on the ground since 2005. On the other, the incessant bombings, which are causing a growing number of deaths, especially among children. Since the beginning of the Israeli offensive, 6,500 people have died in the Gaza Strip, including 2,700 minors. These are figures provided by the Gaza Ministry of Health, controlled by the Islamist organization, but they are also the ones used by United Nations agencies. To these we should add the more than 17,000 people who have been injured. Tuesday, according to the same source, was the most tragic day so far: 750 deaths (344 children).

For the past two weeks, Palestinians have not received water, electricity, food or medicines. This amounts to a siege that does not distinguish between the guilty and the innocent. The very few trucks with humanitarian aid that have managed to enter Gaza from Egypt represent just a drop of water in an ocean of urgent need. Medical centers, overwhelmed by the continuous arrival of injured people, cannot operate the equipment essential to keeping them alive, including premature babies in incubators. They also do not have fuel to start their electric generators: Israel has prohibited fuel from being included in the meager aid thats been authorized past the Rafah border crossing. Following threats from the Israeli government, hundreds of thousands of Gazans have moved to the south of the enclave, sometimes harassed along the way by airstrikes ordered by the same army that forced them onto the road. The images coming out of Gaza show a trail of destroyed infrastructure; U.N. schools have become massive refugee camps and many people have begun to drink from salt water wells, putting their health at risk. We are witnessing an unmitigated human catastrophe.

What is happening to Palestinian civilians in Gaza is not part of Israels right to defend itself after the barbaric attack by Hamas. The condemnation of the terrorist acts that brutally killed so many Israeli civilians, and the solidarity with their families and neighbors, who are in an understandable state of shock, does not mean we must close our eyes to what has been happening in Gaza since that day. It is in the hands of Benjamin Netanyahu to put an end to this situation. Countries with influence on Israel, especially the United States, cannot limit themselves to expressing concern about the humanitarian situation while the Israeli prime minister carries on with his strategy, even challenging U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres for merely providing the context of a conflict that is more than 70 years old. The Palestinians are not Hamas. They should not pay for the crimes of an organization that commits terrorist acts.
UL Solutions now offers testing for manufacturers of new connected device types with the release of Matter 1.2, the Connectivity Standards Alliance's industry-unifying standard for connected devices and smart home technology.

NORTHBROOK, Ill. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- UL Solutions, a global leader in applied safety science, today announced that it has expanded its testing capabilities for Matter, the Connectivity Standards Alliance's (CSA) industry-unifying standard for connected devices and smart home technology, to include new device types and features with the release of the Matter 1.2 update. The new device types under Matter 1.2 include laundry washers, refrigerators, dishwashers, room air conditioners, robotic vacuums, air quality sensors, air purifiers, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and fans. Matter 1.2 also introduces changes to its core specification, such as an improved mechanism for endpoint composition and semantic tags, new Intermittently Connected Devices Monitoring and Operational State clusters, and enhancements to Test Harness, controller test cases and further automation of scripts.

Matter has attracted support from major players across the technology industry, due primarily to its benefits for the industry and users, including a platform-agnostic approach to communication and compatibility across devices. In addition to existing testing capabilities for Bluetooth, Zigbee and Thread technologies, UL Solutions has been a CSA-authorized third-party test house for Matter-enabled connected smart devices since the CSA launched Matter in October 2022 .

"UL Solutions will help technology manufacturers across new device types in Matter 1.2 demonstrate their commitment to industry-wide collaboration and interoperability benefits for their users," said Maan Ghanma , director of smart solutions in the Consumer, Medical and Information Technologies group at UL Solutions. "Our expanded capabilities reinforce our continued support for the successful adoption of Matter among manufacturers of Internet of Things products as this industry-unifying standard continues to grow and include additional features and new device types."

"UL Solutions has been a key partner throughout the development and initial launch of Matter, providing expertise in testing connected smart devices," said Jon Harros , director of certification and testing, Connectivity Standards Alliance. "With the launch of Matter 1.2, we are pleased to see the increasing demand for testing Matter-enabled devices as well as the expanded Matter testing capabilities from UL Solutions at its existing CSA-authorized laboratories."

About UL Solutions

A global leader in applied safety science, UL Solutions transforms safety, security and sustainability challenges into opportunities for customers in more than 100 countries. UL Solutions delivers testing, inspection and certification services, together with software products and advisory offerings, that support our customers' product innovation and business growth. The UL Certification Marks serve as a recognized symbol of trust in our customers' products and reflect an unwavering commitment to advancing our safety mission. We help our customers innovate, launch new products and services, navigate global markets and complex supply chains, and grow sustainably and responsibly into the future. Our science is your advantage.

Press contacts:

Tyler Khan

UL Solutions

[email protected]

T: +1 (847) 664.2139

Steven Brewster

UL Solutions

[email protected]

T: +1 (847) 664.8425

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SOURCE UL Solutions
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- At the United Planners 2023 Connect National Conference, there were many accomplishments to celebrate: winning Top Workplaces award, ranking in the top 10 of wealth management firms across the country in multiple categories by Financial-Planning.com, and its financial advisors for their dedication to their clients while charitably giving back to the community. United Planners is proud of its Arizona heritage as it was established in AZ in 1987 and remains headquartered in Scottsdale , AZ. United Planners continues to be 100% privately owned and operated by its home office employees (who are based in Scottsdale ) and financial advisors (who are based across the country). The home office team provides back-office support to its financial advisors, who provide valuable wealth management services to the general investing public. "We have a huge responsibility to help the everyday investor manage their wealth, which can span across a wide range of financial goals and objectives, such as retirement planning, financial planning, college planning, investment management, employer retirement plans, or insurance services," says Billy Oliverio , Executive Vice President-Chief Marketing Officer.

United Planners celebrates success by winning Top Workplaces award and being ranked in the 10 of wealth management firms

United Planners recently participated in the Top Workplaces process (powered by Energage) for the first time to get a sense of how they ranked as an employer. Low and behold, United Planners received top honors from its employees resulting in the company getting ranked in the top 20 in the Small Business Category. AZ Central published an article about the wealth management firm's unique ownership model that is client-centric focused, and still takes the time to be charitable to give back to the community. "We're very proud of this top tier ranking especially considering it was our first time participating in this event," said Mike Baker , President/CEO. Baker continued to say, "This independent recognition validates our employee-friendly company culture that offers many benefits and flexibility." United Planners embraces a hybrid work environment, dogs in the office, and frequent employee appreciation events. "We recently took our entire home office team to Jackson Hole, Wyoming for an amazing and unique experience to show our appreciation for all their hard work in supporting our advisors and strategic partners," said Baker. This is exactly the kind of stuff that earned United Planners the Top Workplace award.

From an industry rankings perspective, Financial-Planning.com's "Annual Independent Broker Dealer (IBD) Elite 2022" rankings for which independent brokerages have the Biggest Registered Investment Advisors?" ranked United Planners #10 with 65% of its $177 million total revenue derived from advisory fee revenue.

In another Financial-Planning.com ranking for "Annual Independent Broker Dealer Elite 2022 for firms with the most female financial advisors," United Planners ranked #7, which is mission critical to prepare for the roughly $80 trillion generational wealth management transfer that is well underway. "Recruiting younger advisors and female advisors is extremely important as thousands of aging advisors are exiting the business and it is imperative we help them with their succession planning and business continuity processes. Preparing future generations starts with aiding the aging population with their exit strategies, and at United Planners, we assist with all aspects of this planning process," said Sheila Agasi , Executive Vice President-Chief Revenue Officer.

United Planners' overall ranking was #23 out of 47 Independent Broker Dealer participants in Financial-Planning's "IBD Elite" survey. "Our ranking is a fantastic accomplishment given our size and it perfectly demonstrates that you don't have to be the biggest to be one of the best," said Chad Shindel , Executive Vice President-Chief Financial Officer. Chad continued to say, "Diligently managing the firm's financials is core to our foundational strength and stability, which further supports our future growth plans while simultaneously providing our financial advisors and investors with that all important piece of mind."

About United Planners

United Planners is a national wealth management firm that provides financial planning, investment management, and insurance services. Established in 1987, United Planners is proud of its true independence and its "Adamantly Not For Sale" stance because it is 100% owned by its employees and financial professionals. United Planners provides back-office support to independent financial professionals, who help investors manage their wealth to achieve their financial goals & objectives. United Planners is uniquely structured as a limited partnership that offers ownership opportunities and profit sharing to its employees and financial professionals. We embrace a culture, passion, and strategy that caters to the fiercely independent financial services community. United Planners is an open-architecture model that offers flexible, efficient, and scalable solutions to position its financial professionals to build and manage successful businesses. Learn more about United Planners at www.UnitedPlanners.com or 800-966-8737, Option 3. United Planners is a Registered Investment Advisor with the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) / Registered Broker-Dealer with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) / SIPC Member.

Media Contact: Billy Oliverio , Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer

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SOURCE United Planners Financial Services
Plant Power Fast Food launches the new Hippie Patty and Sweet Potato Fries on World Vegan Day 2023

SAN DIEGO , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Plant Power Fast Food proudly introduces its latest culinary creation, the Hippie Patty, just in time for World Vegan Day on November 1 st. The patty harkens back to the early days of vegetarianism and veganism with rustic, simple ingredients, including black beans, poblano peppers, chipotle peppers, roasted cashews, fresh garlic, and onions. Plant Power Fast Food is also introducing vitamin A and fiber packed crispy Sweet Potato Fries.

The patty can be substituted in any of the chain's eight burger options. And when paired with the new crispy Sweet Potato Fries, it's a meal that's warming and comforting.

Founder of Plant Power Fast Food, Zach Vouga , shares his enthusiasm and waxes nostalgic for the new patty. Zach states, "In my school days, black bean patties were my lifeline and epitomized veganism for many of us as they represented a delicious and savory alternative to the high-fat and cholesterol beef burgers."

As this video illustrates, the new Hippie Patty is also a nod to groovier times when the vegan movement was considered counter culture and still in its infancy. While recent "meatier" protein alternatives have introduced a broader audience to veganism, it has also somewhat overshadowed the earthy, genuine flavors of traditional veggie burgers.

"The Hippie Patty is our love letter to those early vegan days," Vouga adds, "it's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest foods like vegetables, legumes, nuts and herbs pack the most powerful punch."

Both the Hippie Patty and Sweet Potato Fries will be available in all locations starting November 1, 2023 .

ABOUT PLANT POWER FAST FOOD

Founded in 2016 the Plant Power Restaurant Group, LLC is a privately held company headquartered in San Diego, CA. The company aims to transform the fast food industry by providing delicious, plant-based options of the food people know and love. The company is committed to delivering convenient, satisfying plant-based options without compromising on taste or satisfaction. Visit plantpowerfastfood.com to learn more about the company's sustainability mission, vision, and menu.

HIPPIE PATTY VIDEO

PHOTOS

LOGO

Contact:

Jim Amos , Scout 22

T: (818) 216-9122

E: [email protected]

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SOURCE Plant Power Fast Food
SEATTLE , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Washington Poison Center (WAPC), Washington's free resource for medical inquiries related to medications, poisons, and drug overdoses, had the honor of hosting Governor Jay Inslee and First Spouse Trudi Inslee on October 23 . The visit provided on opportunity for the Governor and First Spouse to witness the WAPC's invaluable services firsthand and discuss its role in addressing Washington's opioid crisis.

Following a tour of the Poison Helpline call enter, discussions revolved around the WAPC's efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Washington . The WAPC conveyed to Governor Inslee that call volume related to fentanyl exposures has more than doubled in 2023. As of September 30, 2023 , the WAPC has assisted 1,051 callers with fentanyl exposuresa 107% increase from the 508 callers in 2022. These calls encompassed a range of scenarios, including overdoses resulting from substance use, instances of self-harm and suspected suicide attempts, and young children unintentionally ingesting fentanyl in their homes. The WAPC's team of pharmacists, nurses, and physician toxicologists provided these callers with treatment advice and harm reduction strategies.

The WAPC additionally shared with Governor Inslee their dedication to enhancing accessibility and awareness of naloxone (NARCAN), the opioid overdose reversal medication. The Governor and First Spouse experienced hands-on training on how to use naloxone. Dr. Scott Phillips , Executive and Medical Director of the WAPC emphasized the importance of this training: "Many people see naloxone as intimidating, which can be a barrier to providing lifesaving care. Holding the nasal spray and having practice using it are essential steps in successfully responding to the opioid epidemic." The WAPC discussed with Governor Inslee their hope to expand their current naloxone education and distribution program to provide naloxone and training to youth and young adults. Since the program's launch in August, the WAPC has distributed approximately 600 naloxone kits, an equivalent of 1,200 doses, through three events.

For inquiries, contact [email protected].

About the WAPC: The Washington Poison Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit mandated by Washington State to deliver poison and drug exposure-related medical advice and education to community members, first responders, and healthcare providers. WAPC provides medical advice through a 24/7/365 free telephone line staffed by specially trained pharmacists, nurses, and physician medical toxicologists. WAPC also provides free programs to educate local communities on poison safety, prevention, and harm reduction.

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SOURCE Washington Poison Center
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. , Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- WOW! Internet, TV & Phone (NYSE: WOW), a leading broadband provider in the United States , announced today it will host a webcast and conference call on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 , at 4:30 p.m. ET to discuss financial and operating results for the third quarter 2023. WOW! will issue a news release reporting its results prior to the call.

The conference call will be broadcast live on the company's investor relations website at ir.wowway.com. Those parties interested in participating via telephone should dial (888) 330-3556 with the conference ID number 4844814. International callers should dial (646) 960-0826 and use the same conference ID number.

A replay of the call will be available November 8, 2023 , at 7:30 p.m. ET , on the investor relations website or by telephone. To access the telephone replay, which will be available until November 22, 2023 , at 11:59 p.m. ET , please dial (800) 770-2030 or (647) 362-9199 and use conference ID 4844814.

About WOW! Internet, TV & Phone

WOW! is one of the nation's leading broadband providers, with an efficient and high-performing network that passes nearly 2 million residential, business and wholesale consumers. WOW! provides services in 15 markets, primarily in the Midwest and Southeast, including Michigan , Alabama , Tennessee , South Carolina , Georgia and Florida , including the new all-fiber network in Central Florida . With an expansive portfolio of advanced services, including high-speed Internet services, cable TV, home phone, mobile phone, business data, voice, and cloud services, the company is dedicated to providing outstanding service at affordable prices. WOW! also serves as a leader in exceptional human resources practices, having been recognized 10 times by the National Association for Business Resources as a Best & Brightest Company to Work For in the Nation, winning the award for the last six consecutive years and making the 2022 Top 101 National Winners list. Visit wowway.com for more information.

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SOURCE WideOpenWest, Inc.
BEIJING , Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Nanping city in east China's Fujian Province , has always adhered to the concept of green development and has embarked on a development path that unifies ecological protection, green development, and improvements in people's livelihood.

In 2021, Nanping proposed the construction of a national park protection and development belt around Mount Wuyi , preliminarily delineated an area of about 4252 square kilometers to preserve natural ecosystems and biodiversity.

On April 23, 2023 , the proposal successfully passed expert review. The city also carried out three special studies on ecological protection, green development, and improvement of people's livelihood, and took concrete actions to enhance ecological environment protection, historical and cultural heritage protection, infrastructure improvement, integration of culture and tourism, and demonstration of rural revitalization.

Currently, Nanping has obtained several projects such as biodiversity protection in the hilly areas in Northwest Fujian , and ecological protection and restoration of Mount Wuyi range. Meanwhile, the city has expedited the implementation of 85 projects each exceeding hundred million yuan, including water ecological environment management in the upper reaches of the Minjiang River in the province.

Nanping also cultivates and builds a competitive green economic system with green concept.

The Nanping Government Work Report in 2023 pointed out that in 2022, the city started or put into operation 48 bamboo industry chain projects, 42 tea industry chain projects, 15 aquatic industry chain projects, 193 food processing industry chain projects, and 45 cultural tourism industry chain projects.

Nanping Wuyishan Brand Operation Management Co., Ltd. started with modern green agriculture, and strives to create a regional public brand that covers the entire region and the whole industry chain.

In 2022, the sales volume of the brand platform of the company reached 31.5678 million yuan , while products with the brand logo had a sales volume of 629 million yuan . Authorized and pre-authorized enterprises under the brand generated sales of 17.1 billion yuan .

The brand has become an important platform for high-quality agricultural products from northern Fujian to enter a broader market, promoting the development of green industries with brand innovation.

See the original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/336730.html

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/xinhua-silk-road-green-transition-becomes-new-driving-force-for-development-in-e-china-fujians-nanping-city-301968263.html
By Gram Slattery and Alexandra Ulmer

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -An Israeli diplomat in Miami on Thursday pushed back against an assertion by the administration of Ron DeSantis that the Florida governor had coordinated with his office to facilitate the shipment of ammunition and weapons to Israel.

Earlier on Thursday, a DeSantis spokesperson said the governor's office had contracted cargo planes to send drones, body armor and helmets to Israel and worked to "get weapons and ammunition to Israel through private parties."

There were few details disclosed about the shipments, including where the materials originated, and which third parties Florida worked with.

"At the request of the Israeli Consul General in Miami, cargo planes contracted by Florida were used to transport healthcare and hospital supplies, drones, body armor, and helmets that first responders can use," Jeremy Redfern, the press secretary for DeSantis' gubernatorial office, wrote in a statement to Reuters.

"We also worked with the Consul General to help get weapons and ammunition to Israel through private parties."

In an interview with Reuters, however, Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, the Israeli consul general in Miami, said his office did not work with the governor to send any weapons or ammunition to Israel through private parties, though he had once been in contact with the governor's office about a plane that was carrying rifle parts.

"This is not how I would describe it," he said of the statement released by the governor's office.

Elbaz-Starinsky said DeSantis' office had contacted various Israeli government institutions, and that DeSantis had facilitated a shipment of medical supplies, which had been requested by the Israeli health ministry.

He said that earlier in the month, there was a flight that included some "rifle inserts" that had been ordered by Israeli authorities, scheduled to leave Miami, and that he had contacted various "stakeholders" including members of Congress and the governor's office to make sure it would be able to depart. He said he was not sure what influence, if any, the governor's office had on the flight's departure.

"I am not aware and would find it very, very bizarre to think that somebody is procuring weapons and sending it to Israel," Elbaz-Starinsky said. "This is not how we work. And certainly not privately funded."

Asked to clarify, Redfern said the governor's office "was contacted by the Consul General's office for assistance to clear federal bureaucratic hurdles associated with getting those items to Israel."

While it is legal for a U.S. state to send aid to a foreign government, exporters of ammunition and other types of military equipment, including many types of body armor, generally must navigate U.S. export license requirements.

The DeSantis administration did not respond to requests for comment regarding the details of its shipments to Israel.

"There are laws and regulations which govern how the export process is handled. And that's all done through (the Commerce Department.) I couldn't speak with authority today about whether the governor has checked all those boxes or not," White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said on Thursday.

The U.S. Commerce Department, which oversees many of the export controls related to ammunition and military-grade equipment, said it was working with "interagency partners" to expedite applications to send aid to Israel, but that it could not discuss specific transactions.

DeSantis, who is running for the Republican nomination to take on Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2024 presidential race, has tried to portray himself as the staunchest Israel ally in the primary field.

He has sharply criticized former President Donald Trump, who is by far the frontrunner in the race for Republican nominee in the election, for criticizing Israel's intelligence capabilities in October and calling Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah "very smart."

DeSantis and other presidential contenders will be attending the Republican Jewish Coalition's (RJC) weekend donor gathering in Las Vegas, where he will be vying for donor money to bankroll his campaign.

(Reporting by Gram Slattery in Washington and Alexandra Ulmer in San Francisco; additional reporting by James Oliphant, Steve Holland, Humeyra Pamuk, David Shepardson and Trevor Hunnicutt in Washington; Editing by Ross Colvin, Jonathan Oatis, Daniel Wallis and Deepa Babington)
A customer speaks to a member of staff at a gun shop at the Caliber 3 shooting range in Gush Etzion, an Israeli settlement in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, on October 25, 2023. REUTERS/Ronen Zvulun

By Joseph Campbell

KFAR SABA, Israel (Reuters) - After Hamas' shock attack on Israel, Shimrit Ben Arosh, a mother from an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank, drove up to a shooting range in central Kfar Saba for gun license firearms training.

"I have six children, and after the incident of the 7th of October, I understood that I must protect myself. The nights are very frightening, and so I wanted to get a license for a gun, to be safe, to protect my children," she said.

Aghast at the Hamas killing spree in their southern towns and villages, and worried by the military's slow response, Israelis are arming themselves in record numbers with the blessing of their government.

Gun stores and shooting ranges have been working overtime to accommodate the sudden demand, with some former advocates of stricter firearms controls among the new clients.

Israel has been bombarding the Gaza Strip since Hamas's attack on Israeli communities on Oct. 7, which it says killed some 1,400 people.

On Thursday it said its ground forces had made a big push into Gaza overnight to attack Hamas targets as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was still preparing for a ground invasion that could be one of several.

According to Channel 13 TV, there have been 150,000 applications for gun licenses since the cross-border onslaught - compared to just 42 applications in the same period last year.

Firearms sales are highly restricted in Israel, and obtaining a civilian firearms license is no easy feat. An application can sometimes take months.

Some survivors of the rampage credit the guns they had near to hand, with which they said they defended their homes until security forces arrived - often after delays of several hours.

The far-right minister for police, Itamar Ben-Gvir, has also described private gun ownership as a precaution against any recurrence of the internal unrest between Israel's Arab minority and Jewish majority that accompanied the last Gaza war, in 2021.

Netanyahu has said Israel was in an all-out war against Hamas. This included "encouraging civilians and helping civilians to arm themselves for their self-defence," he said in a televised speech on Wednesday.

The gun licenses - usually for pistols, rather than rifles - once took months to process. They can now be obtained in just days online. Before, it was mostly veterans of military combat units or residents of frontline towns who qualified. Now a year of civilian national service can suffice, the police ministry says.

Arab citizens of Israel, many of whom identify as Palestinian, are generally exempted from mandatory conscription and may not be able to get a license.

Before Oct. 7, the Kfar Saba Shooting Range was holding just one training course per day, now theyre holding three to four daily.

Gil Shemesh, a firearms instructor at the shooting range, said the swelling number of applicants has been overwhelming and includes "people living in dangerous areas, to normal people who just want to protect themselves because they saw what happened."

The company is hiring new instructors just to keep up, he said.

Gun control advocates say making firearms too freely available raises the risk of accidental shootings, murder and suicide.

"An untrained response in the event of a subjective sense of danger is liable to bring about the needless death of innocents," said an Israeli advocate group called "Pistol on the Kitchen Table".

(Writing by Dan Williams, editing by Deborah Kyvrikosaios)
By Emily Rose

JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Ali Ziadna, from the Israeli Bedouin city of Rahat, has given insulin to the Red Cross, hoping they will give it to his brother whom he said is one of more than 200 hostages taken in Israel by Hamas gunmen on Oct. 7 and dragged into captivity in Gaza.

"He's diabetic," Ziadna told Reuters in a phone interview after a meeting with the Israeli president in Jerusalem. "Without it, his sugar could drop and he could collapse."

Ziadna's 53-year-old brother, Yosef Hamis Ziadna, his sons Hamza and Belal, and his daughter, Aisha, were working on the Holit farm on Israel's border with Gaza when the attack took place.

Bedouin citizens, who are ethnically Arab and Muslim, make up about 4% of Israel's total population. They mostly live in the Negev desert and in northern Israel.

"They went to milk the cows and then what happened happened and they were kidnapped," Ziadna said of his family. "We still don't know what became of them."

Wahid Al-Hazeel, CEO of the Cheda Kadima Association, which is helping Bedouin families of the missing and kidnapped, said at least 19 members of the Bedouin community were killed in the Hamas onslaught on Oct. 7. Al-Hazeel also said two are classified as missing and dozens of Bedouins were wounded.

At least 7 others - including the four members of Ziadna's family - were kidnapped, Ziadna told Reuters.

Israeli President Issac Herzog visited the southern Bedouin city of Rahat on Thursday to offer support and meet with community leaders.

"I say to everyone around the world, that this is not a war between Jews and Muslims," Herzog said. "This is a war between the people of who seek to bring light and the people who seek to bring darkness."

Ziadna said the Israeli government has paid "very good attention" to their case and government representatives, military officials, police officers and psychiatrists had come to their home.

"What we saw on October 7 does not represent Islam. Islam is a religion of respect, sensitivity, brotherhood, and love," said Herzog.

Ziadna hopes his family can be returned safely.

"I don't understand the military, I'm not a military man. I'm a regular citizen whose brother went to work. My brother only knows how to farm. He and his children went to work," Ziadna said. "I am praying that everyone comes home in peace."

(Reporting by Emily Rose; Editing by Giles Elgood and Sandra Maler)
FILE PHOTO: Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei attends a graduation ceremony for armed forces officers at the Imam Ali academy in Tehran, Iran October 10, 2023. Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS/File P

By Steve Holland and Susan Heavey

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Joe Biden has sent a rare message to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning Tehran against targeting U.S. personnel in the Middle East, the White House said on Thursday after a spate of attacks on American forces in the region.

"There was a direct message relayed," White House spokesman John Kirby said at a news briefing, declining to elaborate.

Iran's mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

U.S. officials want to avoid a wider conflict in the Middle East following the Oct. 7 attack by the militant Hamas group on Israel that killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

About 900 additional U.S. troops are headed to the region or have recently arrived there to bolster air defenses to protect U.S. personnel amid a surge in attacks in the region by Iran-affiliated groups, the Pentagon said.

U.S. troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the past week, it added.

On Wednesday, Biden said he had warned the ayatollah the United States would respond if U.S. forces continued to be targeted but did not say how the message was communicated.

"My warning to the ayatollah was that if they continue to move against those troops, we will respond, and he should be prepared. It has nothing to do with Israel," he told reporters.

In a comment posted on social media before Kirby spoke, an aide to Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi disputed Biden's account.

"The US messages were neither directed to the leader of the Islamic Revolution nor were they anything but requests from the Iranian side. If Biden thinks he has warned Iran, he should ask his team to show him the text of the messages," Mohammad Jamshidi, a Raisi aide, wrote.

Separately, Iran's state news agency IRNA cited an unnamed source as saying the United States had sent Iran, as well some Iranian allies like Lebanese Hezbollah, messages that it was not seeking to expand the war and urging them to exercise restraint.

"The United States cannot both send military equipment to the Israeli regime and take charge of managing the war with one hand, while issuing political messages with the other hand, and speak about its opposition to the expansion of the war," IRNA cited the unnamed source as saying, adding Iran's allies "act independently and are not subject to Tehran's orders."

Israel has vowed to wipe out Hamas, which rules Gaza, in retaliation for the Oct. 7 attack in which the militant group also took about 200 people hostage. Israel has struck Gaza from the air, imposed a siege and is preparing a ground invasion.

Palestinian authorities say more than 7,000 have been killed, though Biden has voiced skepticism about such numbers. Reuters has been unable to independently verify the death toll.

On Thursday, Iran's Foreign Minster Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations that if Israel's retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesn't end, then the United States will "not be spared from this fire."

One way Iran projects power is by arming and funding militant groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen and Shi'ite militias in Iraq.

In the last such known U.S. retaliation, the U.S. military carried out multiple air strikes in Syria on March 23 against Iran-aligned groups it blamed for a drone attack that killed an American contractor, wounded another and hurt five U.S. troops.

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Susan Heavey in Washington; Additional reporting by Parisa Hafezi in Dubai; Writing by Arshad Mohammed; Editing by Doina Chiacu, Jonathan Oatis and Cynthia Osterman)
For a cat lover, one of the most pleasant sounds is the low rumble your feline friend makes when you scratch them lightly behind the ears. Different myths have been created to try to explain why the sound is produced, and even the supposed healing effects it might have for humans. However, the real mystery for the scientific community is how cats produce these purrs. A recent study published in Current Biology may finally have the answer: it is more similar to snoring than a voluntary muscle spasm.

While big cats like lions and tigers are capable of loud roars, domestic cats can only produce low-frequency purrs. Researchers have wondered how they manage to generate these vocalizations, which are typically between 20 and 30 hertz (Hz). Domestic cats are small, most weighing around 10 pounds, and these frequencies are typically only seen in large species such as elephants, which have much longer vocal cords. Only raccoons emit a similar purr, although they are not able to do it with the intensity variations that domestic cats can create.

According to research by Christian Herbst of the University of Vienna (Austria), purring appears to come from pads embedded in the vocal cords of domestic cats, which add an additional layer of fatty tissue and allow them to vibrate at low frequencies. The larynx does not seem to need any stimulation from the brain to produce a purr.

Most noises that mammals make, including cat meows, are produced similarly: a signal from the brain causes the vocal cords to press together, and airflow through the larynx causes the cords to collide hundreds of times per second and produce a sound. This process, known as self-sustaining oscillation, is a passive phenomenon: once the vocal folds begin to vibrate, no further neural information is required to keep them functioning. But some scientists believed that purring was different.

The so-called active muscle contraction hypothesis maintains that to produce a purr, domestic cats actively contract and relax their laryngeal muscles about 30 times per second. Based on measurements of electrical activity in the larynx muscles in purring cats, the idea caught on and has been a common explanation for cat purring ever since.

But the new study calls this into question. The team has discovered that cyclical muscle contractions are not necessary to generate purrs. For this research, scientists removed the larynxes of eight domestic cats that had died from incurable diseases: they brought their vocal cords together and pumped warm air through them. By isolating the larynx in this way, they guaranteed that any sound was produced without muscle contractions or any impulses from the brain. The team managed to produce purrs in all the larynxes without any active neural control, suggesting that purring does not necessarily require muscle contractions.

Herbst and his colleagues suggest that the key to purring lies in the unusual masses of fibrous tissue they describe as pads. Anatomists had detected this before, but did not know what its function might be. It is possible that these increase the density of the vocal cords, causing them to vibrate more slowly and allowing cats to produce low-frequency sounds despite their relatively small size, Herbst explained to the journal Science. Anatomically, the process works similarly to the vibration that is sometimes added to the ends of words in human speech.

The scientific community, however, is not entirely convinced. David Rice, a biomechanical engineer at Tulane University, was consulted by Science, and he believes there is no guarantee that the vocal cords of living cats will behave the same way as those of cats whose cords were surgically removed for the study. Looking at removed larynxes, he notes, is similar to removing the mouthpiece of a wind instrument and analyzing whether it makes a sound in isolation. The same authors, for their part, admit that the intervention of the muscle contraction process in vibration cannot be ruled out, and they assert that nor can it be said to be the only cause of purring.

In the world, around 600 million cats coexist with humans. They are very popular pets due to their ability to form emotional bonds and communicate with people. Furthermore, this species has the most complex vocal repertoire of all carnivores. Their purring is precisely a communication tool: they are born with the innate ability to do so, and usually begin to make the sound from two weeks old.

Although science has not completely deciphered why felines purr under certain circumstances, there are some hypotheses. The kittens purr so that their mother can find them. By doing so, they generate serotonin, which makes it similar to the human smile, and it can even encourage wounds to heal. The truth is that each feline has its own personality, since there are some that do not purr, in the same way that some meow more than others or are less affectionate and sociable.

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FILE PHOTO: Brazil's Finance Minister Fernando Haddad speaks during the ceremony of sanction of the bill that establishes the policy of permanent appreciation of the minimum wage, at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil August 28, 2023. REUTERS/Adriano

By Bernardo Caram

BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazil's Finance Ministry is preparing a decree that nearly doubles the tax on the sale of firearms and ammunition, arguing that the measure is necessary to boost revenue and reduce crime, according to a draft document seen by Reuters.

Prepared by the revenue service at the request of Finance Minister Fernando Haddad, the decree raises the industrial tax on revolvers, pistols, shotguns, carbines, pepper spray, and other equipment from 29.25% to 55%, in addition to also increasing the tax on ammunition.

The proposal was sent by the revenue service to the ministry's executive secretary, Dario Durigan, on Wednesday night. The revenue service declined to comment.

Should the decree be signed by President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva this month, its financial effects would start in March 2024, resulting in an increase in revenue of 342.5 million reais ($68.5 million) next year, 377.7 million reais in 2025, and 415.0 million reais in 2026, according to the draft.

The move aligns with other actions by leftist Lula, who has consistently opposed policies that encourage the sale and use of firearms. Upon assuming office in January, Lula has been changing the federal gun control policy, which had been relaxed under his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro.

($1 = 4.9969 reais)

(Reporting by Bernardo Caram; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
By Anthony Boadle

BRASILIA (Reuters) - Brazilian lawmakers have set up a congressional caucus to represent Brazil's oil and gas industry, led by state-run producer Petrobras, and to back the company's plans to explore offshore fields near the mouth of the Amazon River.

"Petrobras has to do that. We have to explore for oil off-shore from Para to Amapa states, like Guyana and Venezuela are doing," the leader of the caucus, retired army general Eduardo Pazuello, said in an interview late on Wednesday.

Petrobras has planned to explore in the so-called Northern Brazilian Equatorial Margin, following major discoveries in neighboring Guyana and Suriname. But Brazil's environmental protection agency has denied the company a license and asked for more studies on the risks of drilling there.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's cabinet is divided over drilling in the region. The Mines and Energy Ministry favors drilling, but environmental officials have blocked it.

"The government is split, but it will do it. We have to explore for oil at the mouth of the Amazon," Pazuello said.

Environmental groups have called on the government to block exploration near the mouth of the Amazon, arguing that it will damage a vulnerable and little-studied area where South America's biggest river flows into the Atlantic ocean.

Neighboring states want exploration to proceed because it will bring investment and jobs.

The Parliamentary Front in Support of Oil, Gas and Energy, as the caucus is called, was launched on Tuesday with 217 members, or 42% of the lower chamber of Congress.

Pazuello said the caucus will work in the interests of energy producers and distributors, along with hundreds of oil and gas equipment and service providers, including foreign firms such as Norway's Equinor, the second-biggest operator in Brazil after Petrobras.

He said the launch of the caucus received unprecedented support in Congress and was a non-partisan effort. Its deputy leader is Washington Quaqua, of President Lula's Workers Party.

The caucus will seek to mobilize political support in Congress to press the government to explore near the mouth of the Amazon and pass legislation to expand energy infrastructure in Brazil.

Pazuello said Brazil is a world leader in renewable energy sources, with 85% of its electricity provided by hydroelectric, wind, solar or nuclear generators, but the transition to cleaner energy will continue to require oil and even coal for some time.

Pazuello, who was health minister for former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro during the pandemic, was elected to Congress in 2022 from Rio de Janeiro, the state where much of Brazil's oil industry is based.

(Reporting by Anthony Boadle; Editing by Rod Nickel)
LONDON (Reuters) - China has accepted Britain's invitation to attend a global summit on artificial intelligence next week, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden said on Thursday.

"It is the case they've accepted, but we will wait to see everyone who actually turns up at the summit," Dowden told the BBC. "As things stands, yes, we do expect them to come."

Britain is bringing together representatives of AI companies, political leaders and experts on Nov. 1-2 to discuss what some see as the risks posed by AI, with an aim of building an international consensus on its safe development.

(Reporting by William James and Muvija M; Editing by William Schomberg)
Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin attend a see-off ceremony before the launch of the Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft for a crewed mission to China's Tiangong space station, at Jiuquan Satellit

By Ryan Woo

BEIJING (Reuters) -The youngest-ever crew of Chinese astronauts departed for China's space station on Thursday, paving the way for a new generation of "taikonauts" to advance the country's space ambitions in the future.

The spacecraft Shenzhou-17, or "Divine Vessel", and its three passengers lifted off atop a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in northwest China.

Leading the six-month mission was former air force pilot Tang Hongbo, 48, who was on the first crewed mission to the space station in 2021.

His return to the orbiting outpost Tiangong, or "Celestial Palace" in Chinese, also set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflight missions by taikonauts - coined from the Chinese word for space - suggesting a faster rotation of taikonauts in coming years.

Tang, from China's second batch of astronauts in 2010, had to wait more than a decade before he was picked for his inaugural spaceflight in 2021.

By contrast, his fellow Shenzhou-17 crew members Tang Shengjie, 33, and Jiang Xinlin, 35, both travelling to space for the first time, joined China's third batch of astronauts in September 2020.

China has already kickstarted the selection process for the fourth batch of astronauts, seeking candidates with doctoral degrees in disciplines from biology, physics and chemistry to biomedical engineering and astronomy.

It is also opening the process to applicants from Hong Kong and Macau for the first time.

The first and second batches of astronauts were all former air force pilots, like Tang, who joined the People's Liberation Army in 1995 at age 20.

FOREIGN ASTRONAUTS

The selection and training process will commence soon for foreign astronauts looking to participate in joint flights to Tiangong, a senior official on China's manned space program said this year.

But as much as China is showcasing its efforts to internationalise its space missions, its space program has distinct Chinese characteristics, at least on Tiangong.

In a departure from the NASA-led International Space Station (ISS), where English is the working language, only Chinese is used on Tiangong, making Chinese-language skills a key criteria for foreign participants.

Tiangong has become a symbol of China's growing confidence in its space endeavours after being shut out of the ISS program for decades. China is banned by U.S. law from any collaboration, direct or indirect, with NASA.

Tiangong, completed in late 2022, can house a maximum of three astronauts at an orbital altitude of up to 450 km (280 miles) and will have an operational lifespan of more than 15 years.

The Shenzhou-17 astronauts will replace the Shenzhou-16 crew, who arrived at Tiangong at the end of May.

The Shenzhou-16 crew, consisting of veteran astronaut Jing Haipeng, Zhu Yangzhu and Gui Haichao, is scheduled to return to earth on Oct. 31.

Zhu and Gui, both in their 30s, are from China's third batch of astronauts.

Shenzhou-17 marks China's 12th crewed mission since Yang Liwei's solo spaceflight in October 2003, the first Chinese national in space.

(Reporting by Ryan Woo; Editing by Tom Hogue and Gerry Doyle)
FILE PHOTO: A signage is seen in a Chipotle outlet in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., February 7, 2022. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File Photo

By Deborah Mary Sophia

(Reuters) -Chipotle Mexican Grill surpassed market expectations for quarterly results on Thursday, as unwavering demand for its burritos and rice bowls and a strong boost from limited-time promotions helped defy a broader weakness in the restaurant industry.

Dining traffic has slowed across the industry, but Chipotle's wildly popular Carne Asada protein returned to menus in September for a limited time, helping boost footfall at its outlets.

The company has also banked on its rewards program to drive transactions higher through targeted promotions, and ramped up training for its staff to boost efficiency at stores.

Trends have remained strong so far in October, CEO Brian Niccol said on an earnings call, adding that even lower-income consumers were holding up "really well".

Chipotle raised prices by 3% in October after pausing hikes for over a year, but margin benefits would be offset by higher dairy and beef costs, it said.

Shares rose about 3% in extended trading.

"Expectations were fairly low just given everything that we've seen in restaurant land with the GLP-1 (weight-loss drugs)," said Sante Faustini III, director of product intelligence at M Science.

Chipotle said it has not seen any material impact from weight-loss drugs.

While consumers taking weight-loss treatments consume fewer calories, "it's important the calories they do consume are coming from clean food. And that's what we provide... so we're still well-positioned even for those that decide to use the drug," Niccol said in an interview.

With the minimum wage for fast-food workers in California set to rise to $20 by April next year, Chipotle said that would add 2.5%-3% to its cost inflation.

Comparable sales at the California-based chain climbed 5% in the third quarter, beating a 4.46% increase expected by analysts on average, according to LSEG data.

Excluding items, Chipotle earned $11.36 per share in the quarter, topping estimates of $10.55.

Chipotle forecast fourth-quarter comparable sales growth in the mid- to high-single-digit range, compared with estimates of a 5.38% rise.

(Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri and Devika Syamnath)
FILE PHOTO: The logo of Equinix is pictured at the entrance of a data center in Pantin, outside Paris, France, December 7, 2016. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo

(Reuters) - Data center company Equinix trimmed its annual revenue forecast on Wednesday on worries that a tough macroeconomic environment would prompt companies to scale back their plans for cloud-based infrastructure.

The Redwood City, California-based company expects annual revenue between $8.17 billion and $8.21 billion, compared with its prior outlook of $8.17 billion to $8.25 billion.

Analysts on average expect annual revenue of $8.20 billion, according to LSEG data.

For the third quarter, the company posted revenue of $2.06 billion, which was in line with analysts' estimates, according to LSEG data.

Adjusted core earnings rose 7% to $936 million, and the company said it expected a figure of between $899 million and $929 million for the current quarter, compared with expectations of $930.1 million.

Adjusted funds from operations - a key measure of cash flow - came in at $8.19 per share, 6% higher than a year earlier.

The company projects current-quarter revenue between $2.09 billion and $2.13 billion, the top end of which is in line with estimates.

While demand for data centers remains robust, the supply situation in major markets remains tight on account of availability of power, brokerage MoffettNathanson said on Monday.

Data center spending is expected to grow more than 3% this year compared with a prior outlook of 6% on slowing demand while top four cloud companies, including Microsoft's Azure and Amazon.com's AWS, are still clearing inventory, brokerage Raymond James said earlier in Oct.

(Reporting by Jaspreet Singh in Bengaluru)
FILE PHOTO: Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attends the 60th anniversary of the Organization of African Unity (OAU)/African Union (AU) at the African Union Commission (AUC) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia May 25, 2023. REUTERS/Tiksa Negeri/File

By Dawit Endeshaw and Giulia Paravicini

ADDIS ABABA / NAIROBI (Reuters) - Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said on Thursday he would not invade any nation, in comments aimed at quelling neighbouring countries' concerns that he might use force to secure access to a sea port.

Abiy told state media on Oct. 13 that Ethiopia should assert what he called the landlocked nation's right to access the Red Sea as much as possible through peaceful means, raising tensions with regional governments and the spectre of a fresh conflict in the Horn of Africa.

Coastal Eritrea, which secured independence from Ethiopia in 1993 following a lengthy civil war, described recent commentary over the Red Sea as "excessive" and urged concerned parties not be provoked, without directly addressing Abiy's comments.

Both countries subsequently moved troops closer to their shared border, according to diplomats and humanitarians with knowledge of the movements, raising concerns of another conflict in a region already plagued by violence.

"Ethiopia has never invaded any country and now Ethiopia has no intention to invade any country," Abiy told thousands of soldiers gathered in the capital Addis Ababa to celebrate the national army on Thursday.

Abiy said Ethiopia would not pursue its interests "through force", and that "it wouldn't pull the trigger on its fellow brothers."

In the days following the exchange Eritrea deployed troops in the town of Bure, along the border with Ethiopia's Afar region, while Ethiopia moved troops towards that same border, two diplomats and one humanitarian said.

Abiy won a Nobel peace prize in 2019 for his peacemaking efforts which ended two decades of hostility with Eritrea.

Eritrea then fought alongside Ethiopia in the war against regional forces from Tigray, but relations soured once again after Asmara was excluded from the peace talks that ended that conflict in November, and because some of its troops remain in Tigray.

"It's an open secret that relations between Addis Ababa and Asmara have grown ever frostier over the past year," said Alan Boswell, project director, Horn of Africa, at the International Crisis Group.

"There are major concerns around the region that the relationship could deteriorate further and risk outright hostility."

In response to Abiy's latest comments, a senior official from Djibouti, which hosts naval bases for several nations including the United States and China, said his country was sovereign.

"Our territorial integrity cannot be disputed today, or tomorrow," said Alexis Mohamed, a senior adviser to Djibouti's president.

Somalia's government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(Reporting by Dawit Endeshaw and Giulia Paravicini, writing by Giulia Paravicini; Editing by Hereward Holland and Christina Fincher)
Workers stand by a United Nations vehicle, while sorting aid to be distributed to Palestinians, as the conflict between Israel and Palestinian Islamist group Hamas continues, at a United Nations-run facility, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Oct

By James Mackenzie

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israeli air and ground forces widened their attacks on Hamas in the Gaza Strip on Friday, the military said, and the Palestinian militant group said its fighters were clashing with Israeli troops in areas near the border with Israel.

The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly backed a resolution drafted by Arab states calling for an immediate humanitarian truce and demanded aid access to the besieged territory and protection of civilians.

While not binding, the resolution carries political weight, reflecting the global mood. It passed to a round of applause with 120 votes in favour, while 45 abstained and 14 - including Israel and the United States - voted no.

In Gaza, local telecoms firms and the Palestinian Red Crescent Society said internet and mobile phone services were cut off.

"In the last hours, we intensified the attacks in Gaza," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, spokesman for Israel's military, told a televised news briefing after dark on Friday. Israel's air force was conducting extensive strikes on tunnels and other infrastructure, he said.

"In addition to the attacks carried out in the last few days, ground forces are expanding their operations tonight," he said, raising the question of whether a long-anticipated ground invasion of Gaza may be beginning.

Hamas militants were clashing with Israeli troops in Gaza's northeastern town of Beit Hanoun and in the central area of Al-Bureij, the militant group's armed wing said.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby would not comment on the expanded ground operation. But he said Washington supported Israel's right to defend itself and added: "We're not drawing red lines for Israel."

Mark Regev, an adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, told MSNBC that Israel was starting its payback against Hamas and "Gaza will feel our wrath tonight"

"They will continue to be on the receiving end of our military blows until we have dismantled their military machine and dissolve their political structure in Gaza," he told Fox News. "When this is over, Gaza will be very different."

Israeli ground forces had massed outside Gaza, where Israel has been conducting an intense campaign of aerial bombardment since a deadly Oct. 7 attack by hundreds of Hamas gunmen, who rampaged through Israeli communities near the strip, killing 1,400 people and dragging more than 200 into captivity.

A ground invasion would exacerbate what aid groups call a humanitarian crisis in the territory following days of aerial bombardment that Palestinian health authorities in Hamas-run Gaza say have killed more than 7,000 Palestinians.

COMMUNICATIONS HAMPERED, 'HUMANITARIAN PAUSE' SOUGHT

Paltel, the largest telecommunications provider in Gaza said, "All telecommunication services including landline, mobile, and internet have been lost in the Gaza Strip" due to a continuous intensive bombardment.

"Gaza is currently blacked out," it said.

The Red Crescent Society said it had completely lost contact with its Gaza operations room and its teams operating there, and Hamas-affiliated media published a statement from Gaza's Hamas-run government saying that rescue crews were unable to receive emergency calls.

Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) said on the social media platform X it had been unable to reach some Palestinian colleagues, and added: "We are particularly worried for the patients, medical staff and thousands of families taking shelter at Al Shifa hospital and other health facilities."

The head of the U.N. Children's Fund UNICEF, Catherine Russell, said her agency too could no longer communicate with staff in Gaza.

"I'm extremely concerned about their safety and another night of unspeakable horror for 1M children in #Gaza," she posted on X. "All humanitarians and the children and families they serve MUST be protected.

While Israel announced a step-up in operations, White House spokesman Kirby said the U.S. did support a pause in Israeli military activity in Gaza to get humanitarian aid, fuel and electricity to civilians there.

Kirby also said that if getting more than 200 hostages abducted by Hamas out of Gaza required a localized temporary pause, then the U.S. supported that.

Israel had said it was preparing a ground invasion of Gaza, but has been urged by the U.S. and Arab countries to delay an operation that would multiply the number of civilian casualties in the densely populated coastal strip and might ignite a wider conflict.

Concerns about a risk of a wider Middle East conflict have risen in recent days with the U.S. dispatching more military assets to the region as Israel pummelled targets in Gaza and Hamas supporters in Lebanon and Syria.

Oil prices climbed about 3% to a one-week high on Friday on worries that tensions in Israel and Gaza could spread into a wider conflict that could disrupt global crude supplies.

Israeli leaders have vowed to wipe out Hamas, the Islamist movement that has run Gaza since 2007, and kill the leaders and planners of the Oct. 7 assault, undeterred by pleas from humanitarian agencies to spare the civilian population.

SHATTERED INFRASTRUCTURE, POWER CUT

Much of the infrastructure of Gaza, which has been living under blockade by Israel and Egypt since 2007, has been shattered by the Israeli bombing.

Power has been cut for days, crippling treatment facilities and depriving Gazans of fresh water, while half of its housing stock has been damaged and 20,000 residential units destroyed or rendered uninhabitable, according to the Hamas media office.

Palestinians said they received renewed Israeli military warnings to move from Gaza's north to the south to avoid the deadliest theatre of the war.

Gazans say making the journey south remains highly risky amid air strikes and that southern areas have also been bombed.

Many families have refused to leave, fearing a repeat of the experience of previous wars with Israel when Palestinians who left their homes and land were never able to return.

Strategically, Gaza operations may be complicated by the need to protect Israel's northern border with southern Lebanon and Syria, where Israeli forces have been engaged in days of sporadic cross-border fire.

Israel and its U.S. ally have warned Iranian-backed Hezbollah militants in Lebanon not to intervene and Washington has dispatched two aircraft carriers to the region to reinforce the message.

Hamas, backed by Israel's main regional enemy Iran, has had years to prepare its defences. Over the years, Israel has uncovered a sophisticated network of tunnels and Hamas has fired missiles at Israel since launching this month's attack.

Israel's military has told international news organisations Reuters and Agence France Presse that it cannot guarantee the safety of their journalists operating in the Gaza Strip, under Israeli bombardment and siege for almost three weeks.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi, Ahmed Mohamed Hassan, Tala Ramadan, Emily Rose, Adam Makary, Jeff Mason, Phil Stewart, Michelle Nichols, Gabriela Baczynska and Andrew Gray; Writing by Grant McCool, Michael Perry, Kevin Liffey and Giles Elgood and David Brunnstrom; Editing by Philippa Fletcher, Toby Chopra, Howard Goller and Cynthia Osterman)
U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks on healthcare coverage and the economy, at the White House in Washington, U.S. July 7, 2023. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst/File Photo

By Trevor Hunnicutt

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Joe Biden is expected to speak with Wang Yi when China's top diplomat visits the White House this week, according to two U.S. officials familiar with planning for the visit.

Wang, who is set to meet Biden's national security adviser Jake Sullivan, at the White House on Friday could see Biden in person at that time, according to one of the people.

The White House declined to comment.

It is unclear how substantial their interaction will be, but even an informal greeting would be Biden's senior-most interaction with the Chinese government since he briefly met Chinese President Xi Jinping's No. 2, Premier Li Qiang, on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.

It comes as U.S. and Chinese officials set the stage for a long-sought, one-on-one meeting between Biden and Xi at November's Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in San Francisco. Xi and Biden last met at a summit in Bali last November.

Wang is also set to meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken during his trip to Washington this Thursday through Saturday. Several top U.S. officials including Blinken met their Chinese counterparts in Beijing this summer.

Wang is the top foreign affairs official in the Chinese Communist Party and also foreign minister since the dismissal of Qin Gang in July.

Biden said during a press conference on Wednesday he plans to "compete" with China "according to the international rules - economically, politically, and other ways - but I'm not looking for conflict." He also warned Chinese officials against aggression toward the Philippines.

For his part, Xi said on Wednesday China is willing to cooperate with the United States as both sides manage their differences and work together to respond to global challenges, according to Chinese state media.

(Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt; Editing by Heather Timmons and Lincoln Feast.)
FILE PHOTO: A J.P. Morgan logo is seen outside the JPMorgan bank offices in Paris, France, January 27, 2023. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier/File Photo

By Rodrigo Campos and Jorgelina do Rosario

NEW YORK/LONDON (Reuters) -JPMorgan has reached out to Venezuela bondholders about normalizing the weighting of the country's international notes in its widely followed EMBI indexes, three sources with direct knowledge told Reuters.

The talks come after the United States lifted sanctions on Oct. 18 on trading certain bonds issued by the sovereign and state-oil firm PDVSA in the secondary market. The restrictions were removed in response to a deal reached between the country's government and opposition parties for the 2024 election.

JPMorgan's index team, which has made no statement as yet on the future treatment of the Venezuelan bonds, has reached out informally to investors to discuss the topic, the sources said.

JPMorgan had no comment when asked about the process.

Venezuela and PDVSA have around $60 billion of international bonds outstanding, which are in default.

The Wall Street bank had kept the bonds notionally in its influential emerging market fixed income index but dialed their weighting down to zero in November 2019 after Washington imposed sweeping sanctions.

At the time, JPMorgan indicated that an easing of trading restrictions could trigger a "positive Index Watch" while the weighting would "likely be normalized in proportion to prevailing market capitalization" and would happen in phases.

JPMorgan's EMBI indexes are the main benchmark for hard-currency bonds issued by emerging market countries and increasing Venezuela's weighting would trigger buying by index-linked funds.

Prices in select Venezuela and PDVSA bonds rallied from rock-bottom lows after the ban was lifted, with a PDVSA bond that traded last week at 5.5 cents now priced at 13.5 cents and a Venezuela 2038 note up at 18 cents from last week's 8.5 cents, including Thursday's 1.5 cent rise.

The decision on index membership and weighting is taken by JPMorgan, though any changes usually follow consultations with investors.

(Reporting by Rodrigo Campos, Jorgelina do Rosario and Karin Strohecker; Editing by Christina Fincher and Nick Zieminski)
Press Release

October 26, 2023 Senator Mark Villar Encourages Heightened Stray Animals Adoption and Lessened Abandonment Through Legislation Senator Mark Villar expresses his concern with the increasing cases of animal abandonment in different areas in the country. According to the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), there are around 12 million stray cats and dogs in 2019, which are either former family pets or those who have reproduced in the streets due to lack of proper shelter. While there are projects and shelters that rescue these abandoned animals, the rising numbers of those abandoned remain highly disproportionate to the support they ought to receive. "This 12 million number of strays we have in record was back in 2019. Apat na taon na po ang nakalipas. With the pandemic placing a great burden to Filipinos, we can only expect na mas dumami na po ang mga stray animals na walang proper care and shelter. We must act on this and extend our aid in securing safe animal shelters," Senator Mark said. According to PETA, animal homelessness in the Philippines has reached a crisis point as stray animals struggle to live unsupervised in the streets and impounded ones are euthanized every month in municipal pounds. These unfortunate fates of strays and impounded animals are due to the limited resources of both public and private shelters. One case of this is that of an LGU in NCR which reports that its city pound captures an average of 200 stray animals weekly yet they do not have sufficient resources to maintain their care. "My heart goes to these animals who are forced to these unfortunate living situations, and some of them to their untimely deaths because they cannot be cared for. Bilang isang animal lover at pet welfare advocate, I will do my best to lessen these rising numbers of strays and euthanized impounded animals. We are also going to exhaust all means to ensure that proper aid are given to animals left in shelters," Senator Mark said. As an advocate for animal welfare, the Senator filed Senate Bill No. 2257 or the Act Strengthening the Adoption of Stray and Impounded Animals. This bill seeks to encourage the adoption of stray and impounded animals by providing tax incentive benefits to any individual or group who shall adopt stray and impounded animals. The bill also seeks to reduce euthanasia for stray and impounded animals. Further, it outlines the provision for adoption, highlighting the role of the local government units (LGUs) in facilitating the implementation of adoption programs for the animals. "Through this bill, we are hoping that the number of strays and impounded animals will decrease as it will provide guidelines for adoptions in close coordination with LGUs. We are also looking forward to more Filipinos who will be encouraged to adopt, not just because of the tax incentives this bill provides, but also because of their love and care for animals," Senator Mark added. While there are multiple NGOs and private shelters who encourage adoption of rescued animals, the pet adoption rate in the country remains at a concerning low rate, less than one percent in particular. Senator Mark hopes that the bill will increase the adoption rate of stray pets so as to ensure that animals will be brought up in comfortable homes rather than being forced to survive in the streets.
The legal crusade against Meta went one step further on Tuesday. The attorneys general of 41 states sued Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger, for developing products consciously designed to engage children, even though the company argues that its social media platforms are safe for minors. This latest move adds to the cascade of lawsuits  200 of which have been grouped in a class action lawsuit filed in April  that individuals and educational institutions have brought against several social platforms (Facebook and Instagram, as well as Snapchat, TikTok and YouTube) for negatively affecting the mental health of young people.

The coordinated action of these 41 states  33 of which came together in a single, joint lawsuit  details in over 200 pages the reasons why Instagram (and, to a lesser extent, Facebook) is a harmful product for young people. In the lawsuit, the attorneys general explain that they are filing the case because the Metas violations present a continuing harm, and the unfair acts and practices complained of here affect the public interest.

Meta has profited from childrens pain by intentionally designing its platforms with manipulative features that make children addicted to their platforms while lowering their self-esteem, said Letitia James, the attorney general for New York, one of the states involved in the federal suit, after the lawsuit was filed. Social media companies, including Meta, have contributed to a national youth mental health crisis and they must be held accountable.

Nearly a third of American teenage girls had suicidal thoughts in 2021, up 60% from the previous decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just like Big Tobacco and vaping companies have done in years past, Meta chose to maximize its profits at the expense of public health, specifically harming the health of the youngest among us, Colorado Attorney General Phil Wieser said in a statement.

A Meta spokesperson regretted that this path (the legal one) has been chosen instead of working productively with companies across the industry to create clear, age-appropriate standards for the many apps teens use. The company is also upset that the lawsuit filed on Tuesday focuses solely on Meta and does not include other social media sites.

The latest legal blow against Meta was not without warning. The origin of the lawsuit dates back to early 2021, when the company made public that it planned to create Instagram Kids, a version of its popular social network aimed at children under 13 years of age. The announcement caused a stir in the U.S. Several civil associations publicly protested and a group of 44 attorneys generals sent an open letter to Metas CEO Mark Zuckerberg, asking him to reconsider the idea.

In September of that same year, whistleblower Frances Haugen leaked internal documents, which gave further weight to the suspicious against Meta. The former Facebook employee revealed to The Wall Street Journal internal documents that showed that company executives knew of the harmful effects that Instagram had on young people, particularly adolescent girls. Despite the fact that its own reports said that Instagram caused eating disorders and had even led some users to suicide, the social networks senior officials did nothing to address the situation.

In November, the significance of these findings led three states to open a formal investigation into the potential negative impact of Instagram among young people. Haugens revelations also led dozens of parents to file their own lawsuits against Meta, alleging that the company had affected the health and even physical integrity of their children. This process culminated in April this year with a class action lawsuit that also included several educational institutions. Our case doesnt just look at the content of the platforms: we refer to the very design of social networks, which are designed to be addictive, Joseph VanZandt, the lawyer coordinating the class action lawsuit, explained to EL PAIS. A hearing is scheduled to be held on Friday in the Northern District of California. It could play a decisive role in how the latest lawsuit plays out.

Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen, on October 5, 2021 after her appearance before the Senate. Drew Angerer (AP)

In 2022, amid the rise of TikTok  the fastest-gowing social media platform among young people  a group of attorneys general from more than 40 states initiated a separate investigation into the potential harmful effects of TikTok among young people. They have not yet presented their conclusions.

In recent years, countries such as the United Kingdom and states such as California and Utah have approved regulations that require social media companies provide more privacy and security for children. In the case of Utah, the use of social media is restricted at night. In London, Instagram and Pinterest were accused last year of having caused the death of a teenager who committed suicide after long exposure to those platforms.

Change of strategy

The lawsuits filed by 41 states against Meta reflect a change in strategy with respect to the class action suit filed by U.S. educational institutions and individuals. If the latter emphasized that social networks negatively affect the mental health of young people, the lawsuit filed this week alludes to local trade and consumer laws, as well as federal laws for the protection of minors privacy and personal data, explains Rodrigo Cetina, professor of Law at the Barcelona School of Management, who is also an expert in U.S. law.

Although the lawsuit points out that the products (social media apps) can manipulate people and are addictive by design, the argument put forward is that this is not compatible with commercial laws. The large fines imposed in the United States for attacking privacy are not so much based on privacy as a fundamental right, but rather as violating the right to consumer protection, says Cetina.

The change of course is no accident. In May this year  after the class action suit from educational institutions was filed  two key rulings exempted social media platforms for being responsible for the content shared on them. That prompted attorneys general to shift the focus of the lawsuit from something intangible  such as the negative effect social networks can have on mental health  to something more tangible: the fact that the company deceived children and parents by telling them that it would have no impact and that their data would be protected.

Attorney General Rob Bonta talks during a news conference in San Francisco, on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. Haven Daley (AP)

The new lawsuit also focuses on a single company: Meta. This is presumably because prosecutors have the most solid incriminating evidence or information against it, including the internal documents leaked by Haugen. Cetina suggests there may be another reason why Meta was singled out: The redacted parts of the lawsuit, which are confidential, suggest that the plaintiffs have had the help of a protected witness who has provided information about the case that could compromise Meta. In other words, the prosecutors may have found another whistleblower.

Problematic aspects

The lawsuit argues that Instagram and Facebook break the law and are dangerous for children for several reasons. These are the main ones:

Deception. The central argument is that Meta has frequently been breaking the mental health, well-being, and trust of its youngest users, and knowingly and intentionally violating laws on consumer protection and data collection of minors. Meta, the text of the lawsuit says, has misled the public about the substantial dangers of social media apps and has chosen to ignore the harm they cause to the mental and physical health of young people.

Business model. Meta has created a business model for Facebook and Instagram that is designed to maximize the time that young people invest in these services and the attention they dedicate to the platforms. Defendants intentionally designed their social media platforms to manipulate children into excessively and compulsively using them, the lawsuit states.

Addictiveness. According to the lawsuit, to fulfill that business model, Meta has implemented functions such as disruptive alerts, infinite scroll, autoplay, features promoting ephemeral content, and Reels are unfairly utilized by Defendants to extract additional time and attention from children whose developing brains are not equipped to resist those manipulative tactics.

It continues: Defendants design, develop, and deploy disruptive audiovisual and vibrating notifications, alerts, and ephemeral content features in a way that exploit childrens psychological vulnerabilities and cultivate a sense of fear of missing out to induce children to spend more time on Metas platforms than they would otherwise.

Slot machine effect. By algorithmically serving content to children according to variable reward schedules, Meta manipulates dopamine releases in its child users, inducing them to engage repeatedly with its products  much like a gambler at a slot machine, the lawsuit argues..

Persistence. Despite its own investigations, the analysis of independent experts and public data, Meta turns a blind eye to these damaging effects and persist in exploiting childrens psychological vulnerabilities. Defendants acts and omissions constitute knowing decisions causing unnecessary and unjustified harm to children for Defendants financial gain.

Personal data. Another key to the lawsuit concerns privacy regulation. According to the lawsuit, Meta has been collecting data on children under the age of 13 without obtaining the necessary parental consent, a direct violation of U.S. federal law. The complaint says that Meta refuses to limit the collection and use of childrens personal data even though the law prohibits them from doing so. It adds that the company has done nothing to obtain parental consent to collect and monetize the personal data of minors.

Expansion of the model. Finally, the company is accused of expanding the use of these illegal and harmful practices to other products and platforms, such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger and the metaverse.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition




FILE PHOTO: A logo is pictured on the headquarters of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland, June 2, 2020. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse/File Photo

By Emma Farge

GENEVA (Reuters) - World Trade Organization members have begun reviewing reform proposals designed to address U.S. concerns in what a key negotiator called the "last chance" to restore the trade watchdog's ability to settle trade disputes.

The draft proposals seen by Reuters represent what WTO delegates say is the most serious attempt so far to fix the broken dispute settlement system. It envisages such reforms as time limits on resolving disputes and a new way to allow countries to give feedback on rulings they disagree with.

However, it does not yet tackle the central question of whether its top court, known as the Appellate Body, will be revived - a move seen as critical to restoring faith in global trade rules.

The WTO's ability to settle multi-billion dollar trade disputes has been hobbled since December 2019 when the United States, calling for an overhaul, paralysed the Appellate Body by blocking judge appointments. Since then, countries can still file complaints to a lower body but if they do not accept its findings, the case ends up in legal limbo where some 30 unresolved appeals now sit.

Countries are in negotiations to fix it by next year and have submitted dozens of ideas, trade sources said.

"For many reasons, I'm convinced this is the last chance to restore the system," Marco Molina, Deputy Permanent Representative of Guatemala to the WTO, who is coordinating the talks, told Reuters. "If we don't reach a proposal by the ministerial conference, there won't be another window of opportunity like the one we have today," he added.

The next ministerial meeting is in Abu Dhabi in February 2024. Molina declined to give further details, citing the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations.

Earlier this week, Molina told senior officials of WTO members that negotiators were "not far" from a deal. Many delegates say progress is needed urgently since the U.S. presidential election in November 2024 may cool U.S. commitment to WTO reform - with trade a hot button issue for voters.

CAR WITHOUT AN ENGINE?

A draft document dated Oct. 2 and marked "confidential" showed proposals for the February meeting that address U.S. criticism of the 28-year-old trade body, such as allegations of judicial overreach and inefficiency.

It envisages a new mechanism allowing countries to review and give feedback on legal interpretations of trade rulings to inform future judgments.

It also seeks to encourage and simplify informal resolution of disputes, an option that exists but is little-used, and to introduce new, tighter, deadlines for resolving disputes - nine months for standard cases and a year for complex ones. Some WTO disputes have taken years, or in some cases like Airbus-Boeing over a decade, to complete.

New WTO rules must be agreed by consensus of all 164 members.

Deputy United States Trade Representative Maria Pagan said Washington fully supported the negotiations, without commenting on the specific proposal. "If we are able to maintain the collaborative and constructive pace we have set for ourselves, we are confident that tangible progress can be achieved."

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala was also optimistic, saying this week there was "a lot of political will" for dispute settlement reform.

However, there is no agreement yet on any future appeals chamber and the text leaves this section blank, calling it a "work in progress". Without this, any deal would have little meaning, one WTO delegate said: "You can change the parts of a car and replace its wheels and repaint it, but the car won't run without an engine."

(Reporting by Emma Farge; editing by Philip Blenkinsop and Tomasz Janowski)
FILE PHOTO: People take photos by the Morgan Stanley building in Times Square in New York City, New York U.S., February 20, 2020. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Morgan Stanley chose Ted Pick to succeed its longtime leader James Gorman as CEO, effective Jan. 1.

Here are five key facts about Pick, who was seen as the front runner before the announcement on Wednesday:

1) Pick has been co-president of Morgan Stanley for the past two years. As head of the institutional securities group, he oversaw investment banking, equities, fixed income, capital markets and research. He was also co-head of the firm's strategy.

2) Pick was appointed global head of sales and trading in 2015 and was credited with engineering a turnaround of the bank's fixed income division.

3) Pick also ran equity capital markets. During the financial crisis of 2008, he helped the bank raise capital as it faced potential collapse.

4) After joining Morgan Stanley in 1990, Pick was promoted to managing director in 2002 and joined the management committee in 2008. In 2012, he was elevated to the operating committee which comprises the bank's most senior leaders.

5) Pick graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Middlebury College and has an MBA from Harvard Business School. He is a Trustee at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

(Reporting by Nupur Anand in New York; editing by Lananh Nguyen and Sonali Paul)
Workers set down detour signs while police organize around Lisbon High School as an active search for a gunman is underway after Lewiston's deadly mass shootings, in Lisbon, Maine, U.S. October 26, 2023. REUTERS/Nicholas Pfosi

(Reuters) -A gunman left 18 people dead and 13 wounded after opening fire at a bar and a bowling alley in the Maine town of Lewiston, authorities said.

Below is a list of high-profile mass shootings in the United States in recent years:

- MONTEREY PARK, California, Jan. 21, 2023: A 72-year-old gunman used a high-capacity magazine pistol in a shooting at a ballroom dance venue popular with older patrons east of downtown Los Angeles. He killed 11 people and wounded nine.

- COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado - Nov. 19-20, 2022: A 22-year-old man opened fire at an LGBTQ nightclub, killing five people and wounding 18 before he was stopped by "heroic" patrons.

- RALEIGH, North Carolina, Oct. 13, 2022: A 15-year-old shot and killed five people and was apprehended after a manhunt.

- HIGHLAND PARK, Illinois: July 4, 2022: A man perched on a rooftop during a Fourth of July parade killed seven people and wounded dozens.

- UVALDE, Texas, May 25, 2022: A teenager opened fire at an elementary school in the South Texas town, killing 19 students and two teachers. Police from several agencies gathered outside the classroom waited more than an hour before a U.S. Border Patrol team entered the classroom and shot the suspect dead.

- BUFFALO, New York, May 14, 2022: A white gunman killed 10 Black people inside a supermarket in an attack motivated by racial hatred.

- NEW YORK CITY, April 12, 2022: Twenty-three people were wounded when a 62-year-old man activated a smoke bomb and opened fire in a subway. He was taken into custody the next day.

- OXFORD, Michigan, Nov. 30, 2021: Four students were killed and seven people were wounded when a teenager opened fire at his high school.

- INDIANAPOLIS, April 16, 2021: A former FedEx employee who had been under psychiatric care shot dead eight people and wounded several before taking his own life.

- LOS ANGELES, March 31, 2021: Four people were killed, one of them a child, in a shooting at an office building in suburban Los Angeles before the suspect was taken into custody.

- BOULDER, Colorado, March 22, 2021: A mass shooting at a supermarket killed 10 people, including a police officer.

- ATLANTA, March 16, 2021: Eight people, including six women of Asian descent, were shot dead in a string of attacks at day spas in and around Atlanta. A male suspect was arrested.

- MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin, Feb. 26, 2020: A man opened fire at the Molson Coors Beverage Co brewing complex, killing five co-workers before he committed suicide.

- DAYTON, Ohio, Aug. 4, 2019: A man dressed in body armor opened fire in downtown Dayton, killing nine people including his sister. Police killed the shooter.

- EL PASO, Texas, Aug. 3, 2019: A man fatally shot 22 people at a Walmart store. A statement, believed to have been written by the suspect, called the attack "a response to the Hispanic invasion of Texas." Authorities arrested the shooter.

- VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia, May 31, 2019: A disgruntled public utility employee opened fire on co-workers at a municipal building in Virginia, killing 12 people before he was fatally shot by police.

- AURORA, Illinois, Feb. 15, 2019: A man opened fire at an Illinois factory after being fired, killing five workers before he was killed by police.

(Editing by Nick Macfie and Jonathan Oatis)
FILE PHOTO: Ford logo is pictured at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany September 10, 2019. REUTERS/Wolfgang Rattay/File Photo

By Paul Lienert and Nathan Gomes

DETROIT (Reuters) -Ford Motor on Thursday withdrew its full-year results forecast due to "uncertainty" over the pending ratification of its deal with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, and warned of continued pressure on electric vehicles, sending shares of the company down more than 4% after-hours.

The union and Ford on Wednesday reached a tentative agreement that included a 25% wage hike for 57,000 workers over 4-1/2 years, ending a strike at some of the automaker's biggest factories.

Ford expects the new contract will add $850 to $900 in labor cost per-vehicle, Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said in a briefing on Thursday.

The concessions made by the company are significant, said CFRA research analyst Garrett Nelson in an investor note on Thursday. "They will weigh on margins and affect its competitiveness relative to Tesla and other non-union automakers."

Ford's increasing concern about cooling EV demand follows a decision by rival General Motors earlier this week to postpone a $4 billion electric truck plant in Michigan.

Lawler reiterated that Ford will delay some of its planned multibillion-dollar investment in new EV and battery production capacity, citing "tremendous downward pressure" on prices.

Ford lost an estimated $36,000 on each of the 36,000 electric vehicles it delivered to dealers in the quarter - even more than its estimated $32,350 loss per EV in the second quarter.

During Ford's second-quarter earnings briefing in July, Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley said the company would slow the ramp-up of money-losing EVs, shifting investment to Ford's commercial vehicle unit and citing plans to quadruple sales of gas-electric hybrids over the next five years.

Like many of its competitors, Ford is "trying to find the balance between price, margin and EV demand," Lawler said on Thursday. For consumers, Farley added, "affordability is an issue."

GM also withdrew its 2023 results forecast earlier this week, and walked back its often-repeated expectation of building 400,000 EVs by mid-2024.

Ford's adjusted third-quarter earnings per share of 39 cents missed the Wall Street average target of 45 cents, according to LSEG data.

Revenue excluding Ford Credit of $41.18 billion was slightly shy of Wall Street forecasts of $41.22 billion, according to LSEG data.

Ford said its EV unit posted a loss in earnings before interest and taxes of $1.3 billion, bringing its nine-month EBIT loss to $3.1 billion. The company had forecast a full-year pretax loss of $4.5 billion for the Ford Model e unit.

The automaker said its EV business was experiencing "sharply compressed" prices and profitability, and said customers were not willing to pay a premium for EVs over comparable combustion and hybrid models.

Ford's third-quarter profit of $1.2 billion compared with a year-earlier loss of $827 million. Last year's loss included a $2.7 billion noncash writedown on Ford's investment in the now-shuttered Argo automated vehicle business.

The automaker said its Ford Pro commercial vehicle business and Ford Blue combustion and hybrid vehicle business both posted higher year-on-year revenue, EBIT and EBIT margins. Vehicle sales to dealers in both units were lower than a year ago.

Adjusted free cash flow fell to $1.2 billion, from $3.6 billion a year earlier.

(Reporting by Paul Lienert in Detroit and Nathan Gomes and Abhijith Ganapavaram in Bengaluru Additional reporting by David Shepardson in WashingtonEditing by Devika Syamnath, Peter Henderson and Matthew Lewis)
FILE PHOTO: United Auto Workers (UAW) union members picket outside Ford's Kentucky truck plant after going on strike in Louisville, Kentucky, U.S. October 12, 2023. REUTERS/Luke Sharrett//File Photo

By Joseph White and David Shepardson

(Reuters) -The United Auto Workers (UAW) union reached a tentative labor deal on Wednesday with Ford Motor, the first of Detroit's Big Three car manufacturers to negotiate a settlement to strikes joined by 45,000 workers since mid-September.

The proposed accord, which UAW's leadership must still approve, provides a 25% wage hike over the 4-1/2-year contract, starting with an initial increase of 11%.

The Ford deal, which could help create a template for settlements of parallel UAW strikes against General Motors and Chrysler parent Stellantis, would amount to total pay hikes of more than 33% when compounding and cost-of-living mechanisms are factored in, the UAW said.

"We told Ford to pony up and they did," Fain said in a video post on Facebook, adding that the strike at Ford "has delivered".

In addition to the general wage hike, Fain said the lowest-paid temporary workers would see raises of more than 150% over the contract term and employees would reach top pay after three years. The union also won the right to strike over future plant closures, he said.

The UAW also succeeded in eliminating lower-pay tiers for workers in certain parts operations at Ford - an issue Fain highlighted from the start of the bargaining process, wearing T-shirts with the slogan "End Tiers."

The Ford contract would reverse concessions the union agreed to in a series of contracts since 2007, when GM and the former Chrysler were skidding toward bankruptcy, and Ford was mortgaging assets to stay afloat.

"We know it breaks records," Fain said in a video address Wednesday night. "We know it will change lives. But what happens next is up to you all."

The Detroit automakers have argued that the UAW's demands will significantly raise costs and hobble their electric vehicle ambitions, putting them at a disadvantage when compared to EV leader Tesla and foreign brands such as Toyota Motor, which are non-unionized.

The UAW was preparing to strike at a key Ford facility in Dearborn this week if it had not reached agreement after striking at additional GM and Stellantis facilities this week.

But in an unexpected move that adds pressure on GM and Stellantis, the UAW told Ford workers now on strike to return to their jobs during the ratification process. That means production of Ford Super Duty pickups, Ford Bronco and Explorer SUVs and Ranger trucks could restart this week.

Ford, confirmed the news. "We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations," Ford CEO and President Jim Farley said in a statement. Ford shares rose 2% in after-hours trade.

In statements, GM and Stellantis said Wednesday they are working to secure agreements as soon as possible.

"This lays the groundwork for the next two contracts and they should fall in line fairly quickly because all three were within a narrow gap of each other," Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions.

The UAW ratcheted up pressure on the automakers by striking at each company's most profitable plant - GM's Arlington, Texas assembly plant, Ford's Kentucky heavy-duty pickup factory and Stellantis' Ram pickup plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

The total economic loss from the auto workers' strike has reached $9.3 billon, the Anderson Economic Group said earlier this week.

"I think this will be a positive for the stocks," said portfolio manager Tim Piechowski at ACR Alpine Capital Research, which has $250 million in investment in GM. Detroit Three shares currently reflect a scenario worse than the terms of the tentative agreement, he said.

BARGAINING TABLE

The UAW's campaign for a record contract converged with union efforts in Hollywood and at delivery giant UPS to win big pay increases. It also became the focus of attention by U.S. President Joe Biden and Republican rivals who see Michigan and other auto states as pivotal to their 2024 campaign strategies.

Biden joined Fain on a picket line last month, and praised the tentative agreement in a statement Wednesday night as a "testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table."

Absent from Fain and Browning's summary of the contract terms Wednesday was mention of future pay and unionization at new joint-venture electric vehicle battery factories the Detroit Three are building with Asian partners.

Because they are owned by separate corporate entities, the automakers did not have to include those factories in this round of bargaining. Fain had pushed for assurances that battery plant wages would be comparable to wages at assembly plants, and expressed concern that UAW jobs at Detroit Three combustion powertrain plants would be lost over time to non-union battery operations.

Nonetheless, Harley Shaiken, labor professor at the University of California, Berkeley, saw the deal as one with far-reaching implications. "This is a set of negotiations, historically, where gains made in Detroit would be viewed and adapted by many other industries across the economy," he said.

Former GM shareholder Jeffrey Scharf of Act Two Investors said the bottom line for union chief Fain depended on his ability to expand the union.

"If they can use this as a lever to organize Tesla and companies like that, he's brilliant. If they fail to organize the other companies and the differential causes jobs to go out of Detroit and to the other companies, then he's a failure," Scharf said.

(Reporting by Mrinmay Dey and Shivani Jayesh Tanna in Bengaluru; Writing by Peter Henderson and Sayantani Ghosh; Additional reporting by Abhirup Roy; Editing by Cynthia Osterman and Christopher Cushing)
Khadjeh Chehadeh Abu Stateh, 84, left, a Palestinian refugee who fled the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, and her daughter, Zahra Ahmed Abu Stateh, 51, sit at their residence in Bourj al-Barajneh Refugee Camp in Beirut, Lebanon, October 25, 2023. REUTERS/Amr Alfik

By Riham Alkousaa

BURJ AL-BARAJNEH CAMP, Lebanon (Reuters) - For aging refugees in Lebanon, seeing Palestinians caught up in a new conflict in Gaza revives painful memories of their own flight during war in 1948 from villages and towns that were once in British-ruled Palestine and are now part of Israel.

Bidur Al Habet, who fled her home near the coastal town of Acre 75 years ago and ended up in Beirut's packed Burj al-Barajneh camp, wants to return, even as she watches television images of war between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas.

"If the battle starts, let them open the border. We will all go, young and old," said the 82-year-old, speaking in a shabby block down one of the camp's narrow alleys. "Let them take these buildings, we dont want anything from them, we would leave."

Palestinians fled to Lebanon and other Arab states in what they call the "Nakba", or catastrophe, when they were driven from their homes as Israel was created in 1948, although Israel contests the assertion that they were forced to leave.

The tents that first sheltered them have given way to camps like Burj al-Barajneh, crammed with badly built concrete buildings erected with scant thought for urban planning.

But the status of the Palestinian refugees in Lebanon, whether survivors from the first days or their descendants, has not changed over the decades: they remain stateless, cannot own property and are limited in the jobs they are permitted to do.

"The situation is literally miserable," says Walaa Kayyal from Asylos, a British charity that researches asylum cases, adding that Palestinians who fled to Lebanon are facing "the worst situation" compared to those who went to other countries in 1948.

In some Arab states, Palestinians were able to live more integrated lives, and some became citizens. But Lebanon's authorities have proved far less accommodating, wary of upsetting the country's combustible sectarian mix.

'BATTLE OF THE WHOLE NATION'

Many of the Palestinians who arrived in Lebanon and their descendants still live in 12 refugee camps around the country, which now hosts about 174,000 Palestinian refugees.

The walls in Burj al-Barajneh, like other camps, are covered in graffiti backing Palestinian factions, which are effectively in control. Security and governance is in the hands of Popular Committees and Palestinian factions, the United Nations Palestinian refugees agency UNRWA says. Lebanese security forces generally stay outside the camps.

Since Hamas launched its deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel launched its devastating airstrikes on Gaza in response, more graffiti has appeared.

"The battle of the whole nation, Al Aqsa Flood," reads one stencilled message spray-painted on a wall, referring to the name Hamas gave to its Oct. 7 assault on Israel.

Zahra Steitiyeh, 51, a Palestinian embroidery seamstress, said she hoped the latest conflict would one day open the way for her and her family to go back to their original home: "The resistance (Hamas) gave us a lot of hope by what they did in Palestine, that we would return."

Meanwhile, many in Gaza, a narrow strip of land just 40 km (25 miles) long where 2.3 million people live, most of them also Palestinian refugees from what is now Israel, have been displaced again.

They have fled their homes in north Gaza after Israel told them to move south for their own safety, even as Israel has continued to bombard sites all over the strip.

This time, however, they cannot leave the confines of the Gaza Strip. Arab leaders, notably from Jordan which borders the West Bank and Egypt which shares a frontier with Gaza, have said Palestinians must not be pushed out of their land again.

For Steitiyeh's mother, Khadijeh Astateh, who was nine when her family was dispossessed of their home in Safed in what is now northern Israel in 1948, the news of the latest mass displacement of Palestinians in Gaza is a fresh trauma.

"What do I feel? The whole of my body shakes," she said. "Although I am constrained and I need a walking frame, my feelings are strong."

(Reporting by Riham Alkousaa; Editing by Edmund Blair and Giles Elgood)
FILE PHOTO: A crane lifts a shipping container at the HHLA Container Terminal Altenwerder on the River Elbe in Hamburg, Germany, March 31, 2023. REUTERS/Phil Noble/File Photo

By Ludwig Burger and Alexander Hubner

FRANKFURT/MUNICH (Reuters) -German technology groups have warned they are being hit by delays in getting China-bound exports through customs, following the introduction of a German government strategy to reduce economic dependence on demand from China.

German chip-making kit supplier Suess MicroTec late on Wednesday cut its sales forecasts for the second time in three months, blaming tightened controls for exports to China.

That sent shares in the maker of lithography equipment and other chipmaking gear tumbling 11% immediately after the statement and another 12% on Thursday.

Suess said deliveries worth 23.5 million euros ($25 million) were stuck at customs. Though trade rules had not changed, customs have significantly stepped up their inspections since August, it added.

A spokesperson for German customs said they could not comment on specific cases, but that inspections were always conducted in a targeted fashion to avoid causing unnecessary delays. "We cannot confirm these statements about exports from Germany," the spokesperson added.

The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

In July, the German government urged domestic firms to reduce their dependence on demand from China as part of a strategy of "de-risking" its economic relationship with the country.

Lobby group Asia-Pacific Committee of German Business (APA) told Reuters the BAFA office was appearing to scrutinise export requests more closely or escalate requests to the economy ministry more often.

PROCESSING DELAYS

"Manufacturers from all relevant industries have complained for several months of delays in the processing of export requests," said APA Managing Director Friedolin Strack, noting companies have stepped up efforts to obtain a type of export certificate to declare products unobjectionable.

Unlisted technology group Trumpf, with about 4.2 billion euros ($4.4 billion) in revenue, said it was affected in a similar fashion.

"We register in general that exports to China of high-tech products, which include our lasers, are being reviewed more thoroughly than in previous years," said a spokesperson.

Trumpf makes lasers for Dutch maker of semiconductor manufacturing gear ASML.

Suess CEO Burkhardt Frick told Reuters it was largely left in the dark about the cause of delays, adding that customs officers were escalating more requests to BAFA, which has not turned down any but processing times there take between two to five months.

"Our customers' patience is wearing thin but in the short term there is no alternative," said the CEO.

Some high-tech companies with Chinese customers said they were not affected. Siltronic, a maker of semiconductor wafers, said it was able to meet customs requirements, while Aixtron said it had allayed customs concerns early this year by adjusting its gear to rule out use in 5G wireless networks and radar.

Still, the German chamber of commerce said the political environment was hobbling exports to China.

"You really do wonder who is capable of providing all the (requested) data," its Managing Director Martin Wansleben told a press conference on Thursday.

($1 = 0.9485 euros)

(Reporting by Alexander Huebner in Munich, Rene Wagner, Christian Kraemer and Thomas Escritt in Berlin, Anneli Palmen in Duesseldorf, and Ludwig Burger in Frankfurt; Editing by David Holmes)
FILE PHOTO: Google CEO Sundar Pichai arrives for a bipartisan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Insight Forum for all U.S. senators hosted by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., September 13, 2023. REUTERS/Leah

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Sundar Pichai, chief executive of Alphabet and its subsidiary Google, will testify on Monday in the once-in-a generation antitrust fight over Google's dominance of search and some parts of search advertising.

THE TAKE

Pichai, who is being called as a witness for Google, will likely be asked about the company's investments aimed at keeping its search competitive, especially as smartphones took over, and innovation in search advertising. The government, in cross examination, may ask why the company pays billions of dollars annually to ensure that Google search is the default in smartphones.

CONTEXT

* The government has argued that Google, which has some 90% of the search market, illegally paid an estimated $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.

* Google has argued the revenue share agreements are legal and that it has invested to keep its search and advertising businesses competitive. It has also argued that if people are dissatisfied with defaults that they can, and do, switch to another search provider.

(Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Chris Reese)
Firefighters work at the scene of a deadly blaze in the early hours of the morning, in Johannesburg, South Africa August 31, 2023. REUTERS/Shiraaz Mohamed/File Photo

By Tannur Anders

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - An inquiry opened on Thursday tasked with determining responsibility for a fire in Johannesburg that killed 77 people, exposing the living conditions of the victims and throwing a spotlight on gangs that seize abandoned buildings and rent them out.

One of the worst disasters in living memory in South Africa's economic hub, the blaze broke out on Aug. 31 in a dilapidated building crammed with mostly foreign migrants. Many of the victims were burned beyond recognition.

Lucas Thipe, a platoon commander with the City of Johannesburg fire service, recounted his experience to the inquiry.

The fire appeared "abnormal", the flames violent and escaping through the windows, forcing emergency services to start fighting the fire from outside the building.

"Whilst we were busy trying to gain entry, a lady came to me, she was screaming... she wanted to go through into the building, she had a baby inside," Thipe said.

"So I called the team, I sent them through with a fire attack line... on the stairs as they entered they saw a heap of bodies, about four bodies that they saw."

Residents said at the time of the disaster that the building had been taken over by criminal syndicates who charge fees to occupants, exploiting them but also offering more affordable housing to those who might otherwise be left homeless.

"When a building has been hijacked it becomes a fire time bomb," Acting Chief of Emergency Management Services for the City of Johannesburg Rapulane Monageng told the inquiry.

He listed a litany of fire hazards identified so far: blocked emergency escape routes, stair wells converted into makeshift rooms and wood brought in from outside to partition rooms to create makeshift wooden shacks on the ground floor, where some 200 people were crammed together, he said.

A lack of fire extinguishers and the diverting of water from fire suppression equipment for domestic use were also evident.

Residents of such buildings rely on illegal electricity connections, gas burners and - when the country's rolling power blackouts hit - candles, all of which increase the risk of fires.

Johannesburg is one of the world's most unequal cities with widespread poverty, joblessness and a longstanding housing crisis. It has about 15,000 homeless people, according to the government of Gauteng, the province that includes the city.

Johannesburg city authorities had leased the gutted building to a charity providing shelter for women in 2016. But the charity ran out of money and stopped operating, residents said.

(Reporting by Tannur Anders; Editing by Tim Cocks, John Stonestreet and Nick Macfie)
Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki attends a meeting of the Security Council on the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas at U.N. headquarters in New York, U.S., October 24, 2023. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton

By Stephanie van den Berg

THE HAGUE (Reuters) - Israel is waging a "war of revenge" on Gaza aimed at its total destruction, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said on Thursday, as Israeli troops bombard the Palestinian enclave in response to the devastating Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas.

Israel said its ground forces had pushed into Gaza overnight to attack Hamas targets as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said it was "preparing for a ground invasion" that could be one of several.

"So many wars have taken place (in Gaza), this is different. This time it's a war of revenge," al-Maliki told reporters in The Hague.

"This war has no real objective, rather than the total destruction of every livable place in Gaza. This war is not directed by military plans, there are no norms respected. All international rules of war are violated."

Gaza is reeling from almost three weeks of Israeli bombardment, which was triggered by a mass killing spree in southern Israel by the Iranian-backed Hamas militants who run Gaza. Israel says it has the right to defend itself.

Al-Maliki urged international leaders to press Israel for a full ceasefire to make sure urgently needed humanitarian aid can be brought into Gaza.

At a summit in Brussels, EU leaders on Thursday are expected to limit their plea to "pauses" in bombardments, but al-Maliki said this was unacceptable, as it would not ensure aid could come in and water and electricity supplies be reinstated.

During his visit to The Hague, al-Maliki visited the International Criminal Court (ICC), which is investigating alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity on Palestinian territory from 2014 onwards.

Two weeks ago, prosecutor Khan told Reuters the court has jurisdiction over potential war crimes carried out by Hamas militants in Israel and Israelis in the Gaza Strip, even though Israel is not a member state.

"Israel, by cutting electricity, water and fuel, by forcing people to starvation, by forcibly transferring people, is committing war crimes," al-Maliki said.

"What we are seeking is accountability."

(Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg and Bart Meijer; editing by John Stonestreet and Nick Macfie)
A man carries his son while seeking asylum in the United States, on the banks of the Rio Bravo river, on September 12, 2023. JOSE LUIS GONZALEZ (REUTERS)

Humanitarian parole is a temporary immigration status granted by the United States government to individuals who need to enter the country for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit. It is typically used in emergency cases with a critical humanitarian purpose, such as medical treatment, family reunification, or the need for essential assistance in disaster relief efforts, among other situations where the denial of entry could lead to significant hardship.

Humanitarian parole is only a temporary status and does not grant legal permanent residency or a path to citizenship. Once the humanitarian purpose is fulfilled, the individual is expected to leave the United States. This permission is not the same as a request for asylum nor does it grant citizenship. After the parole period expires, applicants may request re-parole within the country.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for granting humanitarian parole to individuals who have compelling reasons for entering the country temporarily but do not qualify for a visa or other immigration benefits. The decision to grant humanitarian parole is at the discretion of the USCIS and other immigration authorities. There is no guarantee that an application will be approved, and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Although each case may vary, the USCIS considers three key factors in its deliberations: the level of suffering the applicant could experience if parole is not granted, the time sensitivity of the situation, and the potential adverse impact a rejection might have on the applicants well-being.

Another crucial factor that the USCIS considers is whether the beneficiary will have means of support while in the United States. The government requires evidence of an individual or entity willing to financially support the beneficiary in the United States. The financial supporter may or may not be the same person or entity as the petitioner; it could be an organization or the petitioner may have multiple financial supporters. Additionally, the USCIS evaluates any evidence related to national security concerns.

How to Apply for Parole

To request parole, applicants must fill out Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and include the filing fee or a fee waiver request. Some individuals may be eligible to file Form I-131 online. Additionally, they have to complete Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, for each beneficiary to demonstrate how they will be financially supported in the United States. Applicants have to provide a detailed explanation and supporting documentation for the reasons theyre requesting parole.

Submitting evidence

In addition to the required forms and fees, applicants have to provide a detailed explanation of the reasons for requesting parole, the expected duration of their stay, and why they cant obtain a U.S. visa or waiver. It is recommended to include copies of any relevant immigrant or nonimmigrant petitions, supporting documents, and identification. Foreign language documents should be accompanied by an English translation and certification from the translator.

Expedited processing

USCIS reviews all requests for expedited processing on a case-by-case basis. If an applicant believes their case merits expedited processing, they can request it by following the Form I-131 instructions and writing EXPEDITE on the application. They also have to provide contact information and a detailed explanation for the request, supported by available evidence. Expedited processing is typically reserved for particularly urgent or life-threatening situations.

How long does it take to process?

USCIS acknowledges processing delays due to a high volume of parole requests since Fall 2021. Timely submission of all relevant supporting evidence is crucial to avoid further delays.

If parole is denied

If a parole request is denied, applicants can file a motion for reconsideration or to reopen the proceeding. It is required to file a motion with Form I-290B within 33 days of the denial notice, including the correct fee or a fee waiver request. If there are significant new facts relevant to the parole application, they may also consider filing a new Form I-131. There is no limit to the number of times a person may file Form I-131.

When parole ends

Beneficiaries can request a re-parole after their humanitarian parole expires. In order to do so, they have to fill a new Form I-131, a new Affidavit of Support (form I-134) and a legible copy of Form I-94 Departure Record that was issued upon their first parole.

Country specific programs

The USCIS have several humanitarian parole programs for nationals from specific countries, most of which are under crisis. The application and approval process may differ depending on whether the applicant is in one of these countries or outside. These are the programs:

The Haitian Family Reunification Parole Program

The Cuban Family Reunification Parole Program

The Central American Minor Refugee/Parole Program

The Filipino World War II Veterans Parole Program

The Immigrant Military Members and Veterans Initiative

There is also a process for Nicaraguans and Venezuelans. It was launched by the Biden administration aimed at migrants from those who are experiencing hardships. Upon approval, they can enter the U.S. on parole status and legally reside and work in the country for up to two years. Applicants need a financial sponsor in the U.S.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition
By Jonathan Saul

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel will provide compensation for ships that are damaged due to the war in Gaza and the government is taking steps to minimise risks for vessels using the country's ports, government advisories said.

Israel has vowed to annihilate the Hamas Islamist group after its fighters stormed through Israeli towns from Gaza on Oct. 7, killing 1,400 people and seizing more than 220 hostages in the worst attack on civilians in Israel's history.

The country relies on its seaports for its trade as well as for much of its needs including consumer goods and food.

Israel's tax authority said in a statement dated Oct. 26 that compensation would be awarded for "war damage" caused to any Israeli or foreign vessel located within Israel's economic waters.

"War damage is defined under the law as damage that is caused to the body of an asset due to acts of war by the regular forces of an enemy or due to other acts of hostility against Israel, or due to acts of war by the Israel Defense Forces," the statement said.

The authority said the rate of the compensation was 100% of the "actual damage", which is the difference in value of the asset prior to the incident and after it was damaged.

Israel has faced heavy rocket barrages including in the south of the country, prompting the closure of the smaller Ashkelon port, which is the nearest terminal to Gaza. There have also been repeated clashes along the northern border.

In a separate Oct. 25 advisory circulated to the global maritime industry and seen by Reuters, Israel's transport and road safety ministry said the country's ports were "highly protected strategic facilities".

"Steps have been taken by the government to minimize risk levels for calling ships," it said, adding that the Iron Dome air defence system had "proven to be super effective".

"Bottom line, despite several previous conflicts, no damage was sustained to any calling ships, i.e. zero incidents."

Additional war risk insurance premiums have risen tenfold in recent weeks for ships calling at Israeli ports and some vessels have diverted away from the major southern port of Ashdod, which is 40 km (30 miles) from Gaza, to Haifa in the north.

Port of Ashdod officials told Reuters this week that operations were unaffected.

"I understand that people don't feel secure right now because of the situation," said Shaul Schneider, chairman of the Port of Ashdod's board of directors.

"But we're dealing with it. We're talking to the importers, we're talking to the heads of (shipping) companies."

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul; editing by Jonathan Oatis)
Former U.S. President Donald Trump attends the Trump Organization civil fraud trial, in New York State Supreme Court in the Manhattan borough of New York City, U.S., October 25, 2023. REUTERS/Jeenah Moon

By Jack Queen

(Reuters) -A New York judge on Thursday reconsidered but ultimately stood by his decision to fine Donald Trump $10,000 for violating a gag order barring the former U.S. president from speaking publicly about court staff during his civil fraud trial.

Justice Arthur Engoron fined Trump for the second time on Wednesday after he again appeared to violate the order by making an apparent reference to his top clerk in comments before news cameras outside the courtroom.

Engoron had agreed to reconsider on Thursday after a lawyer for Trump argued that the offending statement was not directed at his clerk. Engoron did not take long to reach a decision after reviewing a clip of Trump's remarks during a morning break, saying it was "clear" Trump was referring to his clerk.

Trump, the frontrunner for the Republican nomination to challenge Democratic President Joe Biden in the 2024 U.S. election, is accused in the lawsuit by Democratic New York Attorney Letitia James of inflating his assets by billions of dollars to secure better loan terms and insurance premiums.

Engoron leveled the $10,000 penalty against Trump on Wednesday after he said to reporters outside the courtroom, "this judge is a very partisan judge, with a person who's very partisan sitting alongside of him."

It is standard practice in New York state court for clerks to sit next to judges, with the witness box on the other side.

Briefly called to the stand to explain the comment on Wednesday, Trump said he was referring to witness Michael Cohen, his former lawyer and fixer.

Engoron said in a written order that this explanation rang "hollow and untrue" and that using "imprecise language" to create "plausible ambiguity" is not a defense.

Engoron imposed the gag order on Oct. 3 after Trump shared on social media the name and photo of the judges top clerk and suggested she was politically biased. He had fined Trump $5,000 on Oct. 20 after a screenshot of the since-deleted post remained visible on Trumps campaign site for weeks.

(Reporting by Jack Queen, Editing by Nick Zieminski and Jonathan Oatis)
LONDON (Reuters) - A woman from London has been found guilty of aiding the female genital mutilation (FGM) of a young girl in Kenya, becoming the first person to be convicted in England of committing the crime overseas, British prosecutors said on Thursday.

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said police launched an investigation after the victim told a teacher in 2018 that she had been subjected to FGM in the African country years earlier as a young child.

Detectives found that Amina Noor, 39, was responsible for taking the girl to Kenya where the FGM was carried out by a Kenyan woman. Noor said in a police interview she believed the victim would be pierced or injected in a procedure known as "Gudniin"  an Arabic word meaning circumcision, the CPS said.

While Noor said the victim did not appear to be in pain, prosecutors said medical experts had found the girl had suffered severe mutilation which would have caused significant bleeding and extreme suffering.

"Female genital mutilation is an abhorrent offence which can have a physical and psychological impact on victims that lasts a lifetime," said Senior Crown Prosecutor Patricia Strobino.

"The victim in this case was just a young child at the time; she would have had no ability to resist this appalling practice and undoubtedly suffered enormously."

Noor, who was born in Somalia, was convicted by a jury at London's Old Bailey court of assisting a non-UK person to mutilate the genitalia of a British citizen. She will be sentenced at a later date.

She is only the second person to have been convicted in England and Wales of an FGM offence, after a Ugandan mother was found guilty in 2019 of subjecting her 3-year-old daughter to the practice.

Prosecutors said they hoped the latest conviction would send a message that action would be taken against offenders regardless of where in the world the FGM was committed.

(Reporting by Michael Holden; editing by Christina Fincher)
Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado attends an event to receive the credential as winner of the October 22 opposition's primary election, in Caracas, Venezuela October 26, 2023. REUTERS/Leonardo Fernandez Viloria

CARACAS (Reuters) - Former lawmaker Maria Corina Machado was formally declared the victor of the Venezuelan opposition's weekend presidential primary on Thursday, as a government official warned foreign diplomats not to interfere in the electoral process.

The country's attorney general said on Wednesday his office has launched a criminal investigation into the primary and members of its organizing commission.

The investigation risks the wrath of the U.S., which last week relaxed some sanctions on the government of President Nicolas Maduro on pledges his government made of a fair election next year, in a deal between it and the opposition in Barbados.

The U.S. State Department has already said it will reinstate previous sanctions if Maduro's government does not rescind public office bans on Machado and others, as well as release political prisoners and "wrongly detained" Americans by the end of November.

Sanctions were widely expanded in 2019 after Maduro won re-election in what the U.S. and others say was a fraudulent vote.

Machado, who won about 93% of votes in the primary, met with about 10 foreign diplomats on Wednesday at her party's headquarters, sparking the government's objections.

"With all due respect...don't interfere with internal issues," Jorge Rodriguez, president of the ruling party-run legislature, told a large group of diplomats at his own meeting with them on Thursday, as reporters looked on.

The government did not provide a list of attendees at the meeting.

Rodriguez, the government's top negotiator in talks with the opposition, told the diplomats the primary violated electoral rules because it was organized without the help of electoral authorities and violated the Barbados deal.

Machado, however, said the investigation into the primary is a "clear" violation of the Barbados deal.

"We hope it does not proceed," she said at a press conference to announce the primary's final vote count.

The primary's organizing commission tried unsuccessfully to involve electoral authorities, said commission head Jesus Maria Casal, who is among those under investigation.

He did not comment on the investigation.

(Reporting by Vivian Sequera, Mayela Armas and Deisy Buitrago; Writing by Julia Symmes Cobb; Editing by Rod Nickel)
FILE PHOTO: A TikTok logo is displayed on a smartphone in this illustration taken January 6, 2020. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) -Malaysia's communications minister warned on Thursday he could take firm action if social media firms TikTok and Meta are blocking pro-Palestinian content on their platforms.

Meta said it was not deliberately suppressing voices on its Facebook platform, after Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said social media platforms had been accused of restricting content supporting the Palestinians.

"If this issue is ignored, I will not hesitate to take a very firm approach and stance," Fahmi said in a posting on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

Without elaborating, Fahmi said many parties had urged the government to take firm action against social media platforms that restrict pro-Palestinian content.

A Meta spokesperson said there was "no truth" to the claim.

"Our policies are designed to keep people safe on our apps while giving everyone a voice," the spokesperson said in an email to Reuters on Thursday.

TikTok did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Both Meta and TikTok designate Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist movement that governs Gaza, as a "dangerous organization" and ban content praising the group. They also use a mix of automated detection and human review to remove or label graphic visuals.

In response to the conflict, Meta, which also owns Instagram and WhatsApp, has taken such added steps as lowering the threshold at which its technology takes action against potentially violative posts to avoid inadvertently showing them in feeds as recommended content.

The company said some of the take-downs perceived as penalizing support for Palestinians were actually caused by an unrelated technical bug that "had nothing to do with the subject matter of the content."

Meta said in mid-October that it had taken down or labeled nearly 800,000 pieces of content in Hebrew and Arabic in the three days after Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

TikTok, likewise, said in an update on Wednesday that it had removed more than 775,000 videos and 14,000 livestreams since the attack.

Fahmi said Malaysians have a right to freedom of speech regarding the Palestinian cause. He said he would meet TikTok representatives next week to discuss the matter.

Two weeks ago Fahmi said TikTok had not complied fully with Malaysia's laws and had not done enough to curb defamatory or misleading content. TikTok in a response said it would take proactive measures to address the issues raised.

(Reporting by Danial Azhar, Rozanna Latiff and A. Ananthalakshmi in Kuala Lumpur; additional reporting by Katie Paul in New York; editing by Martin Petty, Jason Neely and Howard Goller)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) speaks about border policy, at the Capitol in Washington, U.S., January 26, 2023. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo

By Mica Rosenberg

(Reuters) - Lawmakers introduced a pair of Senate bills on Thursday to combat the rising number of child labor violations in the United States, one targeting companies with federal contracts that employ children for more scrutiny and another increasing reporting requirements to Congress.

A third bill, announced on Wednesday, seeks to improve protections for unaccompanied migrant children, including those who have ended up working in hazardous conditions in meatpacking plants and other factories.

U.S. Democratic Senator Cory Booker from New Jersey and Republican Josh Hawley from Missouri are sponsoring a bill that would require companies, and their contractors, competing for federal contracts to disclose child labor and worker safety infractions or face penalties.

It would also require the Labor Department to compile a list of companies ineligible for federal contracts based on "serious, repeated, or pervasive violations of child labor laws."

It builds on an earlier legislative effort spearheaded by Booker's office that was focused on companies contracting with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which is a major buyer of meat and other foods for the National School Lunch Program and other government programs.

The Labor Department said earlier this month that in the 2023 fiscal year, which ended on Sept. 30, 2023, investigations had found close to 5,800 kids illegally employed in the U.S., an 88% increase from 2019.

Another bipartisan Senate bill introduced on Thursday by Republican Marco Rubio from Florida, with Democrats Alex Padilla from California and John Hickenlooper from Colorado, and Republican Roger Marshall from Kansas, would require the Labor Department to report more details to lawmakers about the perpetrators and victims involved in child labor cases.

The bill would require detailed, annual reports that include the age of children involved and any injuries or deaths on the job.

"U.S. law needs to be strengthened to make sure these children are protected," Rubio said in a statement on Wednesday.

A February 2022 Reuters story exposed child labor at Alabama chicken plants, revealing how unaccompanied Central American migrants in debt to human smugglers were working grueling factory shifts. Later, in November, the Labor Department filed a complaint against cleaning company Packers Sanitation Services Inc. (PSSI) for employing dozens of kids cleaning meatpacking plants around the country, some of whom suffered chemical burns and other injuries.

Reuters reporting last year also found migrant children, some as young as 12, were manufacturing car parts at suppliers to Korean auto giants Hyundai and Kia and more media coverage of the issue has followed.

Reuters coverage detailed how companies can rely on subcontractors, such as temporary staffing agencies, to recruit kids sometimes using false identity documents showing they are older. News organizations have also uncovered how some migrant children, after crossing the U.S.-Mexico border alone, were released from federal custody and ended up working in dangerous conditions.

In a separate legislative effort announced Wednesday, a group of Democratic Senators, led by Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin from Illinois, introduced a bill to reform the government's care of unaccompanied migrant children.

Included in the proposal is a measure to increase access to visas for people who have been victims of crime or workers -- including children -- who have suffered or been witness to labor violations or cooperated with officials to investigate workplace abuse.

(Reporting by Mica Rosenberg in New York; Additional reporting by Joshua Schneyer and Kristina Cooke; Editing by Aurora Ellis and Jonathan Oatis)
FILE PHOTO: A sticker reads crude oil on the side of a storage tank in the Permian Basin in Mentone, Loving County, Texas, U.S. November 22, 2019. Picture taken November 22, 2019. REUTERS/Angus Mordant/File Photo

By Erwin Seba

HOUSTON (Reuters) -Oil prices fell more $2 a barrel on Thursday as fears of a wider Middle East conflict eased at the same time that U.S. demand showed signs of weakening.

Brent crude futures settled at $87.93 a barrel, sliding $2.20 or 2.44%. On Wednesday, Brent settled nearly 2% higher. U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures finished at $83.21 a barrel, down $2.18, or 2.55%.

Oil prices have been boosted recently by fears of a spillover affecting global crude supplies from the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas, which could embroil Iran and its allies in the region.

Those worries were retreating by midday on Thursday.

"The security premium we've been paying since earlier in the month seems to be deflating," said John Kilduff, partner with Again Capital LLC.

The U.S. and other countries are urging Israel to delay a full invasion of Gaza, which is reeling from almost three weeks of Israeli bombing triggered by a mass killing spree in southern Israel by Iranian-backed Hamas.

"The market is on edge," said Price Futures analyst Phil Flynn. "It's critical to understand that we're one headline away from a big rally in the market."

Worries about the broader global economy also weighed on prices. U.S. Treasury yields headed back toward 5% on Thursday, dragging shares around the world to multi-month lows.

The U.S. economy, however, grew at its fastest pace in nearly two years in the third quarter, data showed on Thursday, raising expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates high for longer.

A rise in U.S. crude inventories in the latest week indicated weaker demand.

Inventories climbed by 1.4 million barrels to 421.1 million barrels, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), exceeding a 240,000-barrel gain expected by analysts from a Reuters poll.

The data follows a surprise downturn this month in euro zone business activity data.

"Though with no clear signs the war will spiral, attention is returning to volatile swings in the U.S. bond market and the broader fragile state of the world economy. That is unsettling investors," MUFG analyst Ehsan Khoman said.

The European Central Bank left interest rates unchanged as expected on Thursday, snapping an unprecedented streak of 10 consecutive rate hikes, and maintained its guidance which implies steady policy ahead.

Markets will be looking to OPEC and its allies plans for production levels in the coming year, said Phil Thompson, director at Mobius Risk Group.

OPEC+, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, cut production by 1.3 millions per day (bpd) earlier this year and in September extended the reduced production level through the end of the year.

OPEC members are next scheduled to meet in late November.

"If cuts continue into the new year, it's going to be bullish," Thompson said.

(Reporting by Erwin Seba in Houston; additional reporting by Stephanie Kelly in New York, Ahmad Ghaddar in London and Jeslyn Lerh in SingaporeEditing by Sharon Singleton, Barbara Lewis, Jan Harvey, Rod Nickel and David Gregorio)
A group of Geneva citizens set up 222 empty chairs and strollers for children that symbolically represent hostages and missing people waiting to come home, following a deadly infiltration of Israel by Hamas gunmen from the Gaza Strip, on Place des Nations

By Cecile Mantovani

GENEVA (Reuters) - Demonstrators set up more than 200 empty chairs and strollers outside the United Nations in Geneva on Thursday to draw attention to the plight of Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas and to call for their release.

Israel says more than 1,400 people were killed and more than 220 hostage taken after Hamas gunmen carried out surprise attacks in southern Israel on Oct. 7.

"We have 222 empty chairs which correspond to the 222 hostages who have been abducted from their beds, from their houses by Hamas," said Geneva resident Michel Dreyfus, who helped organise the event.

"They are families, babies, three-month-old babies, 80-year old grandmothers, entire families who have been kidnapped and who have now disappeared in Gaza at the hands of Hamas."

Dreyfus said the demonstration was intended to urge the United Nations and Red Cross to "do what needs to be done so they can come home".

Israel, which on Thursday put the number of people confirmed held hostage in Gaza since the raids by Hamas at 224, has responded to the rampage and abductions with unrelenting air strikes on the densely-populated enclave that have killed thousands of Palestinians.

Relatives of Israeli hostages were in Geneva last week to meet with officials, including at the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), to urge for their release.

Ibrahim Khraishi, Palestinian ambassador to the U.N. in Geneva said: "I'm in favour of releasing all civilians, all prisoners, from both sides. We want them to be released soon."

(Reporting by Cecile Mantovani; Writing by Gabrielle Tetrault-Farber; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
FILE PHOTO: Palestinians, who fled their houses amid Israeli strikes, take shelter at a tent camp at a United Nations-run centre, after Israel's call for more than 1 million civilians in northern Gaza to move south, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Str

PARIS (Reuters) - Paris will send an aircraft filled with humanitarian aid for civilians in Gaza, including tents, medicine and emergency medical equipment, the French foreign ministry said on Thursday.

The emergency cargo will be transported on an aircraft provided by the CMA CGM Foundation from Paris to Egypt before the goods will be handed over to the Egyptian Red Crescent, the ministry said in a statement.

The shipment includes 336 tents, 28 metric tons of food supplements, 70,000 water purification tablets, 18 emergency ventilators, medication and solar lamps.

AFP reported the flight will leave on Saturday.

Separately, EU leaders were poised at a summit in Brussels to call for pauses in Israeli bombing and Hamas rocket attacks to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza after days of wrangling that highlighted divisions within the bloc over the Israel-Palestinian conflict.

Ahead of the summit, diplomats spent days debating whether to call for a "humanitarian pause" or "pauses".

A draft intended as a final summit declaration includes the latter, expressing the leaders' "gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza".

The French foreign ministry reiterated its call for a "humanitarian truce" to allow for delivery of urgent aid.

(Reporting by Tassilo Hummel; Editing by Rod Nickel)
By Charlotte Greenfield

(Reuters) -Taliban authorities released prominent education activist Matiullah Wesa this week, his organisation said on Thursday, after his seven-month detention sparked condemnation from the United Nations and rights groups.

The Taliban administration has barred most girls from high school and women from universities since taking over the country in 2021.

Wesa, from the southern province of Kandahar, has for years advocated for girls' education, particularly in conservative rural areas, including during the tenure of the previous Western-backed foreign government when he said many girls living in the countryside were not reached by education services.

A spokesperson for the Taliban administration confirmed Wesa's release. The Taliban have not previously officially confirmed the detention or its reason.

"Matiullah Wesa is released ... he is with his family," said Nasibullah Noor, a board member at Pen Path, Wesa's education organisation.

Pen Path and the U.N. Mission in Afghanistan confirmed the detention in late March, spurring calls for his release by foreign diplomats and human rights organisations.

Actress and refugee advocate Angelina Jolie wrote an open letter to Wesa in August saying: "I add my voice, with humility, to those of everyone calling for your release, so that you can continue your important work, and for the lifting of all restrictions on education for girls."

Wesa and Pen Path volunteers continued to speak in support of female education, holding meetings with tribal elders, encouraging communities to open schools for girls and boys and disbursing books and mobile libraries.

(Reporting by Charlotte Greenfield in Islamabad; Editing by Giles Elgood and Jonathan Oatis)
The sequence of events unfolded as it usually does  a pattern that is tragically familiar in the United States. First, it emerged that there was a gunman in Lewiston, the second most populous city in the small northeastern state of Maine. Then, that he had targeted various locations, which in the end turned out to be two: a bowling alley and a restaurant. Police then reported multiple victims, without giving further details, and that the suspect was active and at large. Authorities warned that residents should shelter in place in their homes until further notice. The area went on alert. Then, finally, on Thursday morning came the fatal confirmation: Robert Card, a firearms instructor believed to be in the Army Reserve, killed 18 people Wednesday night and injured 13, Maine Governor Janet Mills said in a news conference.

Confusion reigned in the hours following the shooting. Several U.S. media outlets quantified at least 22 dead (as previously stated in this article), based on a live TV interview with a Lewiston city councilman aired Wednesday night. On Thursday morning, the Democratic governor held a press conference at Lewiston City Hall to clarify and expand on the little information that had thus far been made public. Officials detailed that seven people (six men and one woman) died at the bowling alley, another eight at the restaurant and three more after being transported to the hospital.

Mills recalled that Card, whose whereabouts remain unknown, is armed and very dangerous. She also regretted that the shooting had tarnished the states reputation as one of the safest places. This is a dark day for Maine, she added. The state only had 29 homicides last year.

As of Thursday morning, a manhunt was underway as authorities searched for Card, 40, of Bowdoin. Police asked residents in the towns of Lewiston, nearby Lisbon  where the suspect is believed to have gone , Bowdoin, Sabattus and Auburn to remain in their homes. Authorities feared Card was attempting to flee to Canada, since the nearest point of the border is just over two hours drive from Lewiston. They released an image of a white SUV, apparently owned by the suspect, that was found in Lisbon, and another photo of Card wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt and carrying a military style semi-automatic rifle, a weapon also tragically familiar in todays United States.

The governor said she has spoken twice with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. The White House issued a statement Thursday lamenting the event and calling once more for a ban on assault weapons. Once again, our nation is in mourning after yet another senseless and tragic mass shooting, the president said, urging residents in the area to heed warnings and guidance from local authorities.

Far too many Americans have now had a family member killed or injured as a result of gun violence. That is not normal, and we cannot accept it, Biden added, before speaking directly to the Republican Party: I urge Republican lawmakers in Congress to fulfill their duty to protect the American people. Work with us to pass a bill banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, to enact universal background checks, to require safe storage of guns, and end immunity from liability for gun manufacturers. This is the very least we owe every American who will now bear the scars  physical and mental  of this latest attack.

Police remove a victim from the Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant after deadly mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, October 26, 2023. NICHOLAS PFOSI (REUTERS)

The Wednesday night shooting is the 565th mass shooting so far this year and the deadliest of them all, according to Gun Violence Archive, an organization that monitors gun violence in the United States. To get added to the list, a shooting has to result in four people wounded or killed by bullets, not counting the assailant. The victims cannot be members of the same family. The total comes out to almost two mass shootings per day in 2023. Until Wednesday, the deadliest shootings of the year had occurred in January in Monterey Park, California (11 killed) and Allen (Texas), with eight.

After 11:30 p.m., Commissioner Mike Sauschuck of the Department of Public Safety held a press conference, in which he gave some details about the suspect. He said that Card should be considered armed and dangerous, adding that the crisis began at around 6 p.m. local time. He then opened the floor for questions, just two, apologizing in advance because hed surely lack answers to so many doubts. He did not even want to confirm the number of dead and defined the situation as very changeable.

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Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) addresses the U.S. House of Representatives after he was elected to be the new Speaker at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, U.S., October 25, 2023. REUTERS/Elizabeth Frantz

By Andy Sullivan and Andrew Goudsward

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - New U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson has joined his conservative Republican colleagues in voting against abortion and same-sex marriage, but has drawn the most attention for his efforts to overturn Donald Trump's 2020 election defeat.

His new role gives him huge clout steering the chamber, and a seat at the table with Democratic President Joe Biden and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer in negotiating bills of all kinds. But after action Congress took last year he'll have little ability to interfere with the 2024 presidential election, unless he refused to follow the law.

Since winning the speaker's gavel on Wednesday, the 51-year-old Louisiana lawmaker has declined to comment on his work with former President Trump following the 2020 election, or say whether he believes Biden legitimately won.

While he and 199 of his colleagues voted against the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, which was bundled in a year-end spending bill, that legislation will make it much harder for lawmakers to do anything but formally accept the results.

The bipartisan law, passed as a response to the chaos of Jan. 6, 2021, requires approval of one-fifth of the House and Senate to consider a challenge to a state's results -- a much higher bar than existed before, when any single lawmaker from each chamber had the ability to trigger a challenge.

"If it's followed we should be in good shape, and there should be every expectation that it would be followed," said Edward Foley, an election-law expert at the Ohio State University.

Democratic groups have blasted Johnson for his legal work advocating for conservative social causes before being elected to the House in 2016.

He defended his state's ban on same-sex marriage against two lawsuits in 2013, which ended when the U.S. Supreme Court legalized gay marriage nationwide two years later.

He also represented a biblical theme park in a religious discrimination lawsuit against the state of Kentucky and opposed a court ruling that struck down laws criminalizing gay sex.

In Congress, Johnson has voted with most of his fellow Republicans against legislation that would legalize abortion nationwide and provide some protections for same-sex marriage if the Supreme Court reverses his decision.

He voted against a September stopgap funding bill that narrowly averted a partial government shutdown, though he has since said that he now plans to support one ahead of the next looming funding deadline on Nov. 17.

TRUMP ELECTION FIGHT

Following Trump's defeat, Johnson crafted a legal brief, signed by 125 other House Republicans, that sought to persuade the Supreme Court to reject election results from several contested states Trump had lost to Biden.

Johnson argued not that the election had been tainted by widespread voter fraud, as Trump and many of his allies falsely claimed, but instead that some states Trump lost had illegally changed their election procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic, rendering the results from those states invalid.

Johnson stuck with those arguments even after the Supreme Court rejected the case.

"We are convinced the election laws in certain states were changed in an unconstitutional manner," Johnson wrote in a statement that was signed by 36 other House Republicans and released on Jan. 6, 2021, hours before a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a failed attempt to disrupt the election certification.

Hours later, Johnson and 138 other House Republicans voted against certifying Biden's victory.

Johnson could be in a more prominent position in January 2025, when Congress meets to certify the results of next year's presidential race, provided Republicans retain control of the House and keep him as speaker.

Even then, he would have little ability to influence the outcome. "The speaker has a very limited and almost nonexistent role in Electoral College process," said Michael Thorning, an election-law expert at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

The law also clarifies that vice presidents only play a ceremonial role when they preside over the certification.

Foley said a House speaker could, in theory, refuse to follow the law or even declare themselves acting president. A House speaker also would have the ability to influence proceedings if it had to declare a winner if no candidate won a majority of electoral votes.

"It feels unrealistic, but what happened on Jan. 6, 2021, felt unrealistic, too, until it happened," he said.

(Reporting by Andy Sullivan and Andrew Goudesward; Editing by Alistair Bell)
By Dan Whitcomb

(Reuters) -A Maryland man sought in the shooting death of the judge who presided over his divorce case has been found dead, police said on Thursday.

The body of Pedro Argote, 49, was found in a wooded area near Williamsport, Maryland, during a search for evidence in the case, Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert told an afternoon news conference.

"Everybody should sleep a little bit better tonight," Albert said.

The sheriff declined to comment on Argote's cause of death, saying that law enforcement officials would not release further information until an autopsy was conducted on the remains.

Maryland Circuit Court Associate Judge Andrew Wilkinson, 52, was found outside his home in Hagerstown around 8 p.m. on Oct. 19, with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

The search for Argote spread to several states after his car was found a few days later near Hagerstown, a small city near the Pennsylvania border.

Argote, who legally owned a gun, was scheduled to attend a divorce hearing on the day of the shooting, but failed to show up.

Albert said he and several members of his department had come to the press conference after attending a viewing for Wilkerson.

"The family was relieved that we brought this to a little bit of closure," he said.

Wilkinson granted a divorce to Argote's wife, according to court papers. Media accounts said his former wife was given custody of their four minor children.

Albert said police were sent to Argote's Washington County home a few times on "domestic calls," but no arrests were ever made and that Argote did not have a police record.

(Reporting by Dan Whitcomb and Rich McKay; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
FILE PHOTO: Airplane is seen in front of Chinese and Taiwanese flags in this illustration, August 6, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan's defence ministry said that it had detected 15 Chinese air force planes entering Taiwan's air defence zone on Thursday morning, including fighter jets and drones, accompanying Chinese warships carrying out "combat readiness patrols" and drills.

Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, has repeatedly complained over the past four years of Chinese military activity around the island.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard; Editing by Shri Navaratnam)
(Reuters) - Australian producer Syrah Resources on Thursday said it expects buyers outside of China to step up their purchases of natural graphite before stricter export controls on the battery material came into effect on December 1.

China, the world's largest graphite producer and exporter, will require export permits as of Dec. 1 for some graphite products, including spherical graphite used by electric vehicle makers.

Syrah, which has a supply deal with Tesla, mines graphite at its Balama operations in Mozambique and is building a plant in Louisiana where it will produce active anode material (AAM) for batteries. In May, it paused mining at Balama after oversupply hit prices.

The export controls could mean that automakers and suppliers of battery materials will have to accelerate their search for alterative sources of the mineral.

Syrah said that, based on feedback from its customers and analysts, buyers are looking to stockpile graphite to reduce the risk of near-term supply disruptions ahead of the ban, and ahead of China's winter when it tends to produce less natural graphite.

"Any disruption or reduction in China anode precursor or AAM export supply without replacement supply would impact battery production outside China," it said.

Uncertainties regarding the impact of the controls on Chinese supply is expected to continue into 2024, Syrah added, but for now, it does not expect any near-term "meaningful" impact demand from China on its Mozambique project.

"Although the impacts of implementation are not yet known, the announced graphite export controls in China are increasing Government and private sector attention on the strategic importance of Syrah as a unique ex-China natural graphite and AAM supplier in the battery supply chain," the company said in a statement.

Syrah's comments come as Australian government officials visit the United States to shore up cooperation over critical minerals.

Shares in Syrah spiked to 43% to A$0.95 a share on Friday when the export bans were announced before trading at $0.66 cents on Thursday.

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) last month approved a loan of up to $150 million for Syrah's Mozambique operations.

(Reporting by Roushni Nair in Bengaluru and Melanie Burton in Melbourne, editing by Miral Fahmy)
FILE PHOTO: An Israeli soldier keeps guard next to an entrance to what the Israeli military say is a cross-border attack tunnel dug from Gaza to Israel, on the Israeli side of the Gaza Strip border near Kissufim January 18, 2018. REUTERS/Jack Guez/Pool/F

By Jonathan Saul and Stephen Farrell

JERUSALEM/LONDON (Reuters) -What lies in wait for Israeli ground troops in Gaza, security sources say, is a Hamas tunnel network hundreds of kilometres long and up to 80 metres deep, described by one freed hostage as "a spider's web" and by one expert as the "Viet Cong times 10".

The Palestinian Islamist group has different kinds of tunnels running beneath the sandy 360 sq km coastal strip and its borders - including attack, smuggling, storage and operational burrows, Western and Middle East sources familiar with the matter said.

The Israeli military accused Hamas on Friday of using Gaza's main hospital, Al Shifa, as a shield for tunnels and operational centres.

"Hamas has turned hospitals into command and control centres and hideouts for Hamas terrorists and commanders," Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, Israel's chief military spokesman, said.

He showed photographs, diagrams and audio recordings that, he said, showed how Hamas was using hospitals to hide command posts and entry points into the tunnel network. "Hamas terrorists operate inside and under Shifa hospital and other hospitals in Gaza," he said.

It was not possible to verify Hagari's statements. Hamas official Ezzat El-Reshiq said there was "no basis in truth to what was reported by the enemy army spokesman".

The United States believes Israel's special forces will face an unprecedented challenge battling militants while trying to avoid killing hostages held below ground, a U.S. official said.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin noted that Iraq's nine-month-long battle to retake Mosul from Islamic State might prove to have been easier than what awaits the Israelis - likely to be "a lot of IEDs (improvised explosive devices), a lot of booby traps, and just a really grinding activity".

Even though Israel has invested heavily in tunnel detection - including a sensor-equipped underground barrier it called an "iron wall" - Hamas is still thought to have working tunnels to the outside world.

After the last hostilities in 2021, Hamas's leader in Gaza, Yehya Al-Sinwar, said: "They started saying they destroyed 100 km of Hamas tunnels. I am telling you, the tunnels we have in the Gaza Strip exceed 500 km. Even if their narrative is true, they only destroyed 20% of the tunnels."

HOSTAGE WITNESS

There has been no corroboration of the comment by Sinwar, who is thought to be hiding underground ahead of an expected Israeli offensive.

But the estimate of hundreds of kilometres is widely accepted by security analysts, even though the blockaded coastal strip is only 40 km (25 miles) long.

With Israel in control of Gaza's air and sea access and 59 km of its 72 km land borders - with Egypt 13 km to the south - tunnels provide one of the few ways for Hamas to bring in weapons, equipment and people.

While it and other Palestinian groups are secretive about their networks, recently released Israeli hostage, 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz, said: "It looked like a spider's web, many, many tunnels," adding: "We walked kilometres under the ground."

Hamas believes that with Israel's overwhelming aerial and armoured military superiority, tunnels are a way to cut some of those advantages by forcing Israel's soldiers to move underground in cramped spaces that Hamas fighters know well.

An Israeli military spokesperson said on Thursday: "I won't elaborate on the number of kilometres of tunnels but it is a high number, built under schools and residential areas."

Urging the United Nations Security Council to intervene, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has called for an immediate cessation of "aggression" on Gaza and moves toward "a political solution instead of military and security solutions".

UNDERGROUND CITY

Israeli security sources say Israel's heavy aerial bombardments have caused little damage to the tunnel infrastructure with Hamas naval commandos able to launch a seaborne attack targeting coastal communities near Gaza this week.

"Although we have been attacking massively for days and days, the (Hamas) leadership is pretty much intact, as is the ability to command and control, the ability even to try and launch counter attacks," said Amir Avivi, a former brigadier general whose positions in the Israeli military included deputy commander of the Gaza division, tasked with tackling tunnels.

"There is a whole city all over Gaza underneath with depths of 40-50 metres. There are bunkers and headquarters and storage and of course they are connected to more than a thousand rocket launching positions."

Other sources estimated depths of up to 80 metres.

One Western security source said: "They run for miles. They are made of concrete and very well made. Think of the Viet Cong times 10. They have had years and lots of money with which to work."

Another security source, from one of Israel's neighbouring countries, said Hamas' tunnels from Egypt remain active.

"The supply chain is still intact these days. The network involved in facilitating co-ordination are some Egyptian military officers. It is unclear if there is knowledge of this by the Egyptian army," he said.

A small number of narrower, deep, smuggling tunnels were still operating until recently between Egypt and Gaza, according to two security sources and a trader in the Egyptian city El Arish, but they slowed to a near-halt after the war started.

Egyptian officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Wednesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said while inspecting military units in Suez that the army's role was to secure Egyptian borders.

LONG GAME

Hamas is thought to have begun digging tunnels in the mid-1990s, when Israel granted Yasser Arafat's Palestine Liberation Organization some degree of self-rule in Gaza.

The tunnel network is a key reason why Hamas is stronger in Gaza than in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where Israel's military bases and monitoring devices make it harder to get anything in from Jordan.

Tunneling became easier in 2005 when Israel pulled its soldiers and settlers out of Gaza, and when Hamas won power in a 2006 election.

Shortly afterwards Hamas's military wing, the Izz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, captured Gilad Shalit after burrowing 600 metres to raid the Kerem Shalom base on the Gaza border.

A year later Hamas used tunnels in Gaza to launch a military strike against the forces of Arafat's successor as PLO leader, Mahmoud Abbas.

Although the military tunnels remained off-limits to outside eyes, during that era Gaza smugglers would show off commercial tunnels under the Rafah border.

These were around three feet (one metre) wide and used winch motors to haul goods in hollow barrels.

One Rafah tunnel operator, Abu Qusay, said a half-mile tunnel took three to six months to dig and could yield up to $100,000 a day. The most profitable item was bullets, bought for $1 each in Egypt and fetching more than $6 in Gaza. Kalashnikov rifles, he said, cost $800 in Egypt and sold for twice that.

TUNNEL HUNTING

Professor Joel Roskin, a geomorphologist and geologist with Israel's Bar-Ilan University said it was difficult to map the tunnel network accurately from the surface or space, adding highly classified information was essential for 3D mapping and imagery visualisation.

Among the elite units tasked with going underground is Yahalom, specialist commandos from Israel's Combat Engineering Corps known as the "weasels", who specialise in finding and destroying tunnels.

This week Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Yahalom fighters, telling them: "I rely on you, the people of Israel rely on you."

Israeli sources said they face an enemy that has regrouped and learned from previous operations.

"There are going to be a lot of booby traps. They have thermobaric weapons that they didn't have in 2021, which are more lethal. And I believe they acquired a lot of anti-tank weapon systems that are going to try to hit our APCs (armoured personnel carriers), tanks," said Amnon Sofrin, a former brigadier general and former commander of the Combat Intelligence Corps.

Sofrin, who was also previously head of the intelligence directorate with Israel's Mossad spy agency, said Hamas would also be trying to kidnap soldiers.

Daphne Richemond-Barak, professor at Israel's Reichman University and author of the book Underground Warfare, said the conflicts in Syria and Iraq had changed the situation.

"What the IDF (Israeli military) is likely to face inside the tunnels is also all of the experience and all of the knowledge that has been gained by groups like ISIS (Islamic State) and has been ... passed on to Hamas."

(Reporting by Jonathan Saul in Jerusalem and Stephen Farrell in London; Additional reporting by James Mackenzie in Jerusalem, Phil Stewart in Washington, Nafisa Eltahir and Ahmed Mohamed Hassan in Cairo; Editing by Janet Lawrence and Alison Williams)
Striking United Auto Worker union members picket outside the Ford Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan U.S., October 25, 2023. REUTERS/Rebecca Cook

(Reuters) - The United Auto Workers (UAW) union reached a tentative agreement with General Motors on Monday, signaling an end to walkouts that have cost the No. 1 Detroit automaker more than $400 million a week.

The union has also reached agreements with Ford Motor and Chrysler-owner Stellantis over the last few days, in what is seen as significant victories for auto laborers after years of stagnant wages and painful concessions made by the union following the 2008 financial crisis.

Here is a timeline of events beginning with the election of Fain in March:

Date Development

March 25 Shawn Fain wins the race for UAW

president; vows to take a tough stance

against the Big Three automakers.

July 10 The union says it will open contract talks

with Detroit's Big Three automakers starting

July 13.

July 11 Fain says the union is not afraid to hold a

strike at any of the automakers without a

fair contract.

July 19 Fain meets President Joe Biden at the White

House as the union briefs the staff on

contract talks with the automakers.

Aug. 1 The UAW presents demands to Stellantis, says

the union is seeking ambitious benefit

increases from the Detroit Three, including

double-digit pay rises and defined-benefit

pensions for all workers.

Aug. 2 The union presents contract demands to

General Motors.

Aug. 3 The union presents contract demands to Ford

Aug. 8 Fain angrily tosses contract proposals from

Stellantis in a trash can, citing numerous

concessions that the Chrysler parent is

seeking in labor talks.

Aug. 25 The UAW says 97% of voting members were in

favor of authorizing a strike at the Detroit

Three if an agreement is not reached before

Sept. 14.

Aug. 31 The union says it has filed unfair labor

practice charges with the National Labor

Relations Board (NLRB) against GM and

Stellantis, saying they have refused to

bargain in good faith.

Aug. 31 Ford makes a contract offer to the UAW,

providing hourly employees with 15%

guaranteed combined wage increases, lump-sum

payments and improved benefits over the life

of the contract.

Sept. 1 The NLRB says it will investigate the charges

filed by the UAW.

Sept 6 The UAW makes a labor contract

counterproposal on economic issues to Ford.

Sept. 7 GM makes a counteroffer to the UAW that

includes a 10% wage hike and two additional

3% annual lump-sum payments over four years.

Fain calls the offer "insulting."

Sept. 8 Stellantis says it offered U.S. hourly

workers a 14.5% wage hike over four years but

no lump-sum payments.

Sept. 8 Fain says UAW expects to go on strike against

all three automakers the following week if

they do not improve their contract offers.

Sept. 11 Stellantis says it plans to make a new

counteroffer to the UAW after the union made

its own revised offer on Sunday ahead of the

expiration of the current four-year labor

deal Thursday night.

Sept. 13 The UAW rejects counteroffers from the

automakers and outlined plans for strikes

targeting individual U.S. auto plants in what

would be its first-ever simultaneous strike

against the Detroit Three.

Sept. 15 The UAW launches simultaneous strikes that

will halt production of some popular models

at three factories owned by GM, Ford and

Stellantis.

Sept. 16 Negotiators for the UAW and Ford have

"reasonably productive discussions" toward a

new contract, while officials at Stellantis

say a proposal to resume work at an idled

Illinois factory has fallen through.

Sept. 18 UAW says it will announce strikes at more

plants on Sept. 22 if no serious progress is

made in talks.

Sept. 20 UAW says 90 workers go on strike at

Mercedes-supplier ZF's plant in Alabama.

Sept. 22 UAW will expand its strikes against GM and

Stellantis, but has made real progress in

talks with Ford Motor, the union says.

Sept 24. Ford says despite progress in some areas, it

still has "significant gaps to close" on key

economic issues before it can reach a new

labor agreement with UAW.

Sept. 28 The UAW makes a new counter-proposal to

Stellantis, just one day before it was set to

strike at additional Detroit Three

facilities.

Sept. 29 The UAW will walk off the job at an

additional plant at General Motors and at

Ford, says Fain. The new strike will not

extend to Stellantis, which called before the

scheduled 10 a.m. ET announcement to make

significant changes in its contract proposal.

Oct.2 GM and Ford say they are laying off another

500 workers at four Midwestern plants.

Separately, the UAW confirms it presented a

new contract offer to GM. GM says it has

received the counterproposal "but significant

gaps remain."

Oct. 3 Ford says it had made a new contract offer

but says a dispute over battery plants

remained unresolved. Ford says the new offer

boosts wages for temporary workers, increases

company 401(k) contributions and further

shrinks time needed to get to the top wage

rate.

Oct. 6 The UAW holds off on additional strikes

against Detroit Three auto plants, citing

GM's unexpected willingness to allow workers

at joint-venture battery plants to be covered

by union contracts.

Oct. 11 GM, Ford and Stellantis all agree to raise

base wages by between 20% and 23% over a

four-year deal. Ford and Stellantis agree to

reinstate cost-of-living adjustments, or

COLA.

Oct. 12 The UAW shuts down Ford's biggest plant

globally, saying the automaker refused to

move further in bargaining. UAW negotiators

are expected to turn their attention to talks

with Stellantis.

Oct. 13 Fain says the union will not expand its

strike at the moment, but warns that members

would now walk out of additional facilities

without warning rather than wait until

Fridays to announce new plans.

Oct. 13 A senior Ford executive says the automaker is

"at the limit" of what it can spend on higher

wages and benefits for the UAW. Stellantis

and Ford say they will temporarily lay off

1,250 employees due to the impact of the UAW

strike.

Oct. 16 Ford executive chairman Bill Ford urges the

UAW union to end a 32-day strike and reach a

new labor agreement, and warns of the growing

impact to the automaker and the U.S. economy.

Oct. 20 General Motors and Stellantis raise their

offer to striking auto workers, matching

Ford's proposed 23% wage hike. Fain says

"there is more to be won."

Oct. 23 An additional 6,800 UAW members go on strike

at Stellantis's largest assembly plant.

Oct. 24 General Motors withdraws its 2023 profit

outlook just ahead of a new UAW walkout at

its Arlington, Texas, factory.

Oct. 25 UAW and Ford announce tentative agreement on

labor deal that will last 4-1/2 years and

provide a record pay increase.

Oct. 26 Ford withdraws full-year results outlook due

to "uncertainty" over pending ratification of

its deal with the union, and warned of

continued pressure on electric vehicles.

Oct. 28 Stellantis and UAW reach tentative agreement

on new labor contract, the union said.

Oct. 28 UAW expands strike against General Motors to

include an engine plant, in a move that could

stall GM's large pickup production.

Oct. 30 GM and the UAW union reached a tentative

agreement, with union members winning record

pay hikes to end six weeks of a coordinated

strike against the Detroit Three automakers.

(Reporting By Reuters Staff; Editing by Cynthia Osterman, Shounak Dasgupta, Shinjini Ganguli and Anil D'Silva)
FILE PHOTO: Saint-Kitts-and-Nevis-flagged bulker TK Majestic, carrying grain under the UN's Black Sea Grain Initiative, waits in the southern anchorage of the Bosphorus in Istanbul, Turkey July 15, 2023. REUTERS/Mehmet Emin Caliskan/File Photo

By Pavel Polityuk

KYIV (Reuters) -Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Oleksandr Kubrakov denied on Thursday reports by Ukrainian and British firms that the new Black Sea export corridor had been suspended.

"The information regarding the cancellation or unscheduled stoppage of the temporary #Ukrainian_corridor for the movement of civilian vessels from and to the ports of the Big Odesa (region) is false," Kubrakov said on X, formerly Twitter.

"All available routes established by the Ukrainian Navy are valid and being used by civilian vessels."

The Kyiv-based Barva Invest consultancy, British security firm Ambrey and a specialised outlet, Ukrainian Ports, reported that Ukraine had suspended use of the corridor due to a possible threat from Russian warplanes and sea mines.

Ukraine has been using the corridor to try to revive its seaborne exports without Russian approval, defying threats from Moscow which quit a U.N.-brokered deal in July that had allowed some food exports to flow despite the war.

"We would like to inform you of a temporary suspension of vessel traffic to and from (the ports). The current ban is in force on Oct. 26, but it is possible that it will be extended," the consultancy said on the Telegram messaging app.

Chicago wheat futures, a global price benchmark, turned higher on the news to recover from an earlier two-week low. They later traded up about 1%.

Wheat futures had been pressured this week by hopes that Ukraine would expand grain exports, as well as rain relief in dry crop belts worldwide. [GRA/]

Barva Invest, which specialises in Ukraine's agriculture sector, said a de facto suspension had already been in place for two days at the behest of Kyiv's military, which had cited a threat from increased Russian air force activity.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that he had ordered Russian warplanes armed with Kinzhal missiles to patrol the Black Sea.

British maritime security company Ambrey said in a report that the Ukrainian Seaport Authority issued a communique late on Wednesday, saying: "There would be no vessel movement along the corridor for entry and exit on 26th of October, 2023."

The suspension was prompted by Russian Air Force operations in the region, it said.

"On October 25th, Ambrey informed its clients that the Russian Air Force had dropped at least four objects, likely acoustic and/or magnetic sea mines, into the Ukrainian grain corridor transit area near Snake Island, Ukraine," it said.

HUMANITARIAN CORRIDOR

Ukraine launched a "humanitarian corridor" for ships bound for African and Asian markets in August to try to circumvent a de facto blockade in the Black Sea after Russia quit the deal that had guaranteed Kyiv's seaborne exports during the war.

Later, a senior agricultural official said the route - which runs along Ukraine's southwest Black Sea coast, into Romanian territorial waters and onwards to Turkey, would also be used for grain shipments.

About 700,000 tons of grain have left Ukrainian ports via the new route since it began operating in August. Ukraine shipped up to six million tons of grain a month from its Black Sea ports before Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Kubrakov said 23 ships were loading in the ports of Odesa, Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi.

"A total of 51 vessels used the entrance corridor. 33 vessels exported more than 1.3 million tons of Ukrainian agricultural products and other cargo," he said.

(Additional reporting by Gus Trompiz in Paris and Jonathan Saul in London; editing by Tom Balmforth, Mark Heinrich and Giles Elgood)
United Nations workers arrive to distribute aid to Palestinians, who have fled their homes due to Israeli strikes and take shelter in a UN-run school, in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip October 23, 2023. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem/File Photo

By Nidal al-Mughrabi

GAZA (Reuters) -The U.N. agency providing aid to Palestinian civilians in besieged Gaza warned it may have to shut down operations shortly if no fuel reaches the enclave, amid an increasingly desperate need for shelter, water, food and medical services.

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently needed fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations in the Islamist Hamas-ruled enclave that has been under Israeli bombardment for almost three weeks.

"If fuel is not received into Gaza, UNRWA will be forced to significantly reduce and in some cases bring its humanitarian operations across the Gaza Strip to a halt. The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.

Israel has refused to let in fuel with aid shipments, saying it could be seized by Hamas.

More than 613,000 people made homeless by the war between Israel and Iran-backed Hamas are sheltering in 150 UNRWA facilities across the shattered territory, one of the world's most densely populated places.

"In the last 24 hours another three UNRWA staff members have been killed, bringing the total to 38 staff killed," said UNRWA.

The enclave is reeling from unrelenting Israeli air strikes, triggered by a deadly cross-border rampage into southern Israeli communities by Hamas militants on Oct. 7.

Israel says the Hamas operation killed some 1,400 people. Gaza's health ministry said on Thursday that more than 7,028 Palestinians had been killed in air strikes since then.

The death toll is likely to rise if Israel launches a widely expected ground offensive aimed at annihilating Hamas, whose fighters it says are enmeshed in the population as cover.

Palestinians in Gaza said air strikes had pounded the territory again overnight and people living in its central area, near the Bureij refugee camp and east of the village of Qarara, reported intensive tank shelling before daybreak.

Around midday on Thursday, according to officials at Nasser Hospital in the southern town of Khan Younis, Israel bombed an area not far from an UNRWA shelter for displaced people, killing at least 18 people and causing panic among the displaced.

Mahmoud Shameya, sheltering there with his wife and three children, said they lived in instant terror because of ongoing Israeli bombing.

"I urge the whole world to protect us," he said. "We sleep amid the sounds of explosions and we wake up to the sounds of explosions, the children are always blocking their ears with their hands."

IMPOVERISHMENT TURNS TO DESPERATION

Gaza's 2.3 million people were already suffering from widespread poverty and high unemployment over years of Israeli and Egyptian blockade before Israel began flattening its Palestinian neighbour in response to the Hamas assault.

Now many Gazans are sheltering in hospitals that are struggling to avoid shutdown for lack of electricity, as well as in schools, homes and existing refugee camps and in the streets after Israel warned them to leave their homes in the north.

Israel needs to agree to a full ceasefire in Gaza in order enable unimpeded deliveries of emergency aid, Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki said on Thursday in The Hague.

Despite increasingly critical humanitarian shortages, world powers failed at the U.N. Security Council on Wednesday to agree on a resolution to seek a lull in the fighting to deliver meaningful amounts of aid.

The World Health Organization said 26 metric tons of medical materials were waiting on the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing with Gaza for approval to enter the enclave.

These supplies would cover basic health for 110,000 people, allow surgery for 3,700 trauma patients and give care for 20,000 patients needing treatment for chronic diseases, the U.N. agency said in an email to Reuters.

At the UNRWA shelter, many displaced people voiced despair at the lack of aid. They said they had heard about some U.N. trucks carrying basic supplies into Gaza but very little.

Omar Al-Namara, one of the displaced, said that in the two weeks he had stayed there he had received one 330ml bottle of water, and was sleeping on the ground. "A small bottle of water for each person. Only one since we came here, what shall I do with it? Use it as eye-drops?" he said.

Namara said some displaced people were being forced to buy gallons of water outside the compound because UNRWA wasn't giving enough for families. That water, he said, was "polluted and undrinkable, but we drink it because we are thirsty."

Nahed Abu Taaema, director of Nasser Hospital, said he had received many dead people since Wednesday night, mostly women and children. "We have received 77 martyrs, most of them women and children, since last night," Taaema said in a statement carried by Hamas's Al-Aqsa radio station.

The losses are being felt by all Gazans in every way.

The uncle of Palestinian boy Elias Abu Shammala, who was killed in an Israeli air strike, carried his body in his hands to a grave accompanied by relatives and friends. The uncle said the boy died of his wounds in hospital because officials were unable to send him outside Gaza for treatment.

The border crossing with Egypt was closed.

(Additional reporting by Stephanie van den Berg, Bart Meijer and Emma Farge; writing by Michael Georgy; editing by Mark Heinrich)
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2023 - 16:03 | All, Japan

A Ukrainian and two Russian men have been arrested on suspicion of smuggling around 113 kilograms of illegal stimulants, with a street value of around 7 billion yen ($47 million), concealed in air cargo from Mexico to Japan, police said Thursday.

It is the largest amount of stimulants seized by Toyama prefectural police in central Japan on one occasion since comparable data became available in 2002, they said.

Andrey Rudko and Aleksandr Zinin, both 55-year-old Russian nationals living in Toyama, and Ukrainian national Valerii Smirnov, also 55, were arrested on Oct. 8 for allegedly violating the Stimulants Control Act.

The three are suspected of smuggling the drugs through Narita airport near Tokyo on Aug. 28 by hiding them in air cargo, with the substances divided into clear plastic bags and carried in a large metal container.

The stimulants arrived at a company in Toyama run by Rudko on Sept. 16, when the local police arrested the three and a 22-year-old male Russian national initially on suspicion of narcotics possession. The four were all acquainted with each other, the police said.

Related coverage:

Man charged with fatally shooting doctor denies intent to kill

Japanese on Malaysia death row to appeal for leniency under new law

Japan to up response to quasi-legal drugs amid rising health fears
By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents including violent assaults and online harassment have spiked in the U.S. since the Israel-Hamas conflict erupted on Oct. 7, two advocacy groups said Wednesday.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said it received 774 complaints of incidents motivated by Islamophobia and bias against Palestinians and Arabs from Oct. 7 to Tuesday. The group said this was the highest level since 2015.

The total was almost triple 2022's average number of complaints for a period of the same duration.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) said its preliminary data showed a 388% rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. from Oct. 7 to Monday over the prior year. The group reported 312 incidents including harassment, vandalism and assault. About 190 of those were directly linked to the war between Israel and Hamas, ADL said.

CAIR cited an 18-year-old Palestinian man allegedly assaulted in Brooklyn; death threats against a mosque and a fatal stabbing of a 6-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois, who U.S. authorities said was targeted for being Palestinian American.

ADL said complaints included violent messages, especially on online platform Telegram, and rallies where "ADL found explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel."

The U.S. Justice Department has said it is monitoring rising threats against Jews and Muslims amid the conflict. President Joe Biden has condemned antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Palestinian Islamist group Hamas' Oct. 7 attack killed over 1,400 people, Israel has said. Israel's air strikes since on Hamas-controlled Gaza have killed over 6,500 as of Wednesday, according to the health ministry in Gaza. Reuters was unable to verify those figures independently.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
FILE PHOTO: U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland for Economic Affairs Joe Kennedy III speaks, as U.S. President Joe Biden visits Ulster University, Belfast, Northern Ireland, April 12, 2023. REUTERS/Clodagh Kilcoyne/File Photo

By Amanda Ferguson

BELFAST (Reuters) - A U.S. business delegation dispatched to Northern Ireland by President Joe Biden talked up opportunities created by the region's bespoke post-Brexit trade arrangements on Thursday, but members acknowledged a political stand-off had sown some doubts.

The trade mission, announced by Biden during a visit to Belfast in April, was designed to help sell what the president described as the "unprecedented economic opportunity" created by the region's dual access to the United Kingdom and the European Union goods markets under the Windsor Framework Agreement.

The February agreement has however so far failed to convince the region's largest pro-British party, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), to end a boycott of the regional power-sharing government due to remaining barriers on trade with the rest of the UK.

"I think people have been excited about this. They've had their eyes opened by this trip," U.S. Special Envoy to Northern Ireland Joe Kennedy III, who is leading the delegation of around 50 U.S. executives, told reporters.

But he also said a stable government was important for people considering investments in the hundreds of millions or billions of dollars. "We need to get there," he said of efforts to re-establish a system of power-sharing set up by a 1998 peace deal.

The delegation included Coca-Cola CFO John Murphy, Liberty Mutual Insurance CEO Tim Sweeney and New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli.

But a commitment by the New York State pension fund to invest up to $50 million in Northern Ireland businesses was the only major announcement during the trip.

One of the delegation, Alteryx Inc chief executive Mark Anderson, said an expansion by his data analytics software company in the region was "something that's really worthy of consideration" after Brexit threw a "bit of a wrench" into the advantages of their London office. He said political difficulties were not a barrier.

February's Windsor Agreement, which eases Northern Ireland's access to the rest of the United Kingdom while leaving it within the EU's single market for goods, is likely to create opportunities for manufacturers in particular, delegates said.

Some of the manufacturing-focussed firms that travelled to Northern Ireland were "intrigued by the unique market access," Stephen Kelly of trade body Manufacturing NI told Reuters after hosting a session with delegates.

Around 230 U.S. businesses operate in the region. But south of the border, Ireland's much faster growing economy has proven a greater magnet for U.S. firms thanks to decades-long pro-business policies and a 12.5% corporate tax rate, half that of the UK.

Speaking in Dublin, Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin said Northern Ireland cannot fully grasp the opportunities without local government.

"The message from business to Northern Ireland leaders is clear: Deliver stability and we will deliver investment," said Martin.

(Additional reporting by Padraic Halpin and Conor Humphries; Editing by Giles Elgood)
A new Apple Watch Ultra 2 is displayed during the 'Wonderlust' event at the company's headquarters in Cupertino, California, U.S. September 12, 2023. REUTERS/Loren Elliott/Fiile photo

By Blake Brittain

(Reuters) -The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) on Thursday issued an order that could bar Apple from importing its Apple Watches after finding the devices violate medical technology company Masimo's patent rights.

The full commission upheld a judge's ruling from January that Apple violated Masimo's rights in light-based technology for reading blood-oxygen levels.

The decision will not have an immediate effect since it now faces presidential review and possible appeals.

President Joe Biden's administration will have 60 days to decide whether to veto the import ban based on policy concerns before it goes into effect. Presidents have rarely vetoed bans in the past.

Apple can appeal the ban to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit after the review period ends.

"Masimo has wrongly attempted to use the ITC to keep a potentially lifesaving product from millions of U.S. consumers while making way for their own watch that copies Apple," an Apple spokesperson said. "While todays decision has no immediate impact on sales of Apple Watch, we believe it should be reversed, and will continue our efforts to appeal."

Masimo Chief Executive Officer Joe Kiani said the decision "sends a powerful message that even the world's largest company is not above the law."

The ITC decision did not specify which models of Apple Watches would be affected by the ban. Masimo's 2021 complaint said the 2020 Apple Watch Series 6, the first model with blood-oxygen monitoring capabilities, infringed its patents.

Masimo's complaint said the infringing Apple Watches were made in China. Apple has since shifted some of its Apple Watch production to Vietnam.

The ITC case is part of an intellectual-property fight between Apple and Masimo that spans several jurisdictions.

Irvine, California-based Masimo has accused Apple of stealing its technology and incorporating it into several Apple Watch models. A jury trial on Masimo's allegations in California federal court ended with a mistrial in May.

Apple has separately sued Masimo for patent infringement in federal court in Delaware. It has called Masimo's legal actions a "maneuver to clear a path" for its own competing smartwatch.

Apple is also facing an Apple Watch import ban in a separate patent dispute with medical technology company AliveCor. The ITC issued a ban in February but placed it on hold during related proceedings over the validity of AliveCor's patents.

Apple's wearables, home and accessory business, which includes the Apple Watch, AirPods earbuds and other products, brought in $8.28 billion in revenue during the third quarter of 2023, according to a company report.

(Reporting by Blake Brittain in Washington; Editing by David Bario, Grant McCool and Bill Berkrot)
Pear Tree Funds

55 Old Bedford Road

Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773

October 26, 2023

VIA EDGAR

Office of Registration and Reports

U. S. Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE

Washington, D.C. 20549-0505

RE: Pear Tree Funds File No. 811-03790 Submission Type: 40-17G/A

Ladies and Gentlemen:

On behalf of Pear Tree Funds (the  Registrant ), enclosed for filing, pursuant to Rule 17g-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the  1940 Act ), are the following documents:

1. A copy of the Joint Fidelity Bond and any riders thereto for the Registrant and other joint insureds (attached as Exhibit A ); 2. A certified copy of the resolutions approved at the October 25, 2023 meeting of the Trustees of the Registrant in which a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Registrant as defined by Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act approved the amount, type, form and coverage of the Joint Fidelity Bond (attached as Exhibit B ); and 3. A copy of the Joint Fidelity Bond Agreement, by and among the Registrant and other joint insureds, pursuant to Rule 17g-1(f) (attached as Exhibit C ).

This filing amends and restates the Registrants filing submission 40-17G pursuant to Rule 17g-1(g) on August 24, 2023.

Please contact me at (781) 676-5941 if you have any questions.

Very truly yours, /s/ Diane Hunt Diane Hunt Assistant Treasurer

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

Bond No. 30 FI 0551074-23

Hartford Fire Insurance Company

Hartford, CT 06115

(herein referred to as the UNDERWRITER)

DECLARATIONS

Item 1. Name of Insured (herein called INSURED(S)): PEAR TREE FUNDS Principal Address: 55 OLD BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 202 LINCOLN, MA 01773 Item 2. Bond Period: From 12:01 a.m. on 08/01/2023 To 12:01 a.m. on 08/01/2024 Standard Time Item 3. Limit of Liability: Provided however, that if specific limits, are shown below as applicable to any specified COVERAGE, such specific limits shall apply to the coverage provided by such COVERAGES and are in lieu of, and not in addition to, the above bond Limit of Liability. If Not Covered is inserted below beside any specified COVERAGE, the coverage provided by such COVERAGE is deleted from this bond

COVERAGES Limit of Liability Deductible I. Employee $2,500,000 $0 II. Premises $2,500,000 $50,000 III. Transit $2,500,000 $50,000 IV. Forgery or Alteration $2,500,000 $50,000 V. Securities $2,500,000 $50,000 VI. Counterfeit Currency $2,500,000 $50,000 VII. Computer Systems Fraudulent Entry $2,500,000 $50,000 VIII. Voice Initiated Transaction $2,500,000 $50,000 IX. Telefacsimile Transfer Fraud $2,500,000 $50,000 X. Uncollectible Items of Deposit $25,000 $5,000 XI. Audit Expense $50,000 $0 XII. Stop Payment $50,000 $5,000 XIII. Unauthorized Signatures $50,000 $5,000 Optional Insuring Agreements and Coverages: No Deductible shall apply to any loss under COVERAGE I. sustained by any Investment Company.

Item 4. The Coverages provided by this Bond are also subject to the terms of the following riders issued herewith: SEE FORM GU207 (SCHEDULE OF RIDERS)

IC 00 H003 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 1 of 16 F-6000-0

Item 5. The INSURED by the acceptance of this bond gives notice to the UNDERWRITER terminating or canceling prior bond(s) or policy(ies) No.(s) N/A such termination or cancellation to be effective as of the time this bond becomes effective.

This bond will not be valid unless countersigned by our duly authorized representative.

08/01/2023

Date Countersigned by

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INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

The UNDERWRITER, in consideration of the payment of premium, and in reliance upon all statements made and information furnished to the UNDERWRITER by the INSURED in applying for this bond, and subject to the DECLARATIONS, COVERAGES, GENERAL CONDITIONS, DEFINITIONS AND LIMITATIONS and other terms hereof, agrees to indemnify the INSURED for:

COVERAGES

I. EMPLOYEE

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from Larceny or Embezzlement committed by any Employee, acting alone or in collusion with others.

II. PREMISES

A. PROPERTY

Loss of Property directly resulting from robbery, burglary, larceny (common-law or statutory), mysterious disappearance, damage, destruction or removal from the possession, custody or control of the INSURED, while such Property is in the custody of or deposited within any office or premise.

B. OFFICE EQUIPMENT

Loss of, or damage to furnishings, fixtures, supplies, equipment, safes or vaults within any of the INSUREDS offices directly resulting from robbery, burglary or larceny (common law or statutory) of such offices, or attempt thereat. Loss resulting from damage to any office directly resulting from robbery, burglary or larceny (common law or statutory) of such office, or attempts thereat is also covered, provided that the INSURED is the owner of such offices, furnishings, fixtures, supplies, equipment, safes or vaults or is legally liable for such loss or damage always excepting, however, loss or damage through fire and all loss to electronic data processing equipment.

III. TRANSIT

Loss of Property directly resulting from robbery or larceny (common law or statutory), mysterious disappearance, damage to or destruction while the Property is in transit to any location:

a. in an armored motor vehicle, including loading and unloading thereof,

b. in the custody of a natural person acting as a messenger of the INSURED, or

c. in the custody of a Transportation Company while being transported in a conveyance which is not an armored motor vehicle provided, except, that covered Property transported in this manner is limited to the following:

1. written records,

2. securities issued in registered form or negotiable instruments not payable to bearer, which are not endorsed or are restrictively endorsed.

Coverage under this Transit Coverage begins upon the receipt of such Property by the natural person acting as a messenger or as a representative of an armored motor vehicle company or as a messenger or as a representative of the Transportation Company and ends upon delivery to the premises of the addressee or to any representative of the addressee.

IV. FORGERY OR ALTERATION

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from:

IC 00 H003 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 3 of 16 F-6000-0

a. Forgery or fraudulent material alteration of any bills of exchange, checks, drafts, acceptances, certificates of deposits, promissory notes, money orders, orders upon public treasuries, letters of credit or receipts for the withdrawal of Property, or

b. transferring, delivering or paying any funds or other Property, or establishing any credit or giving any value in good faith, and in the ordinary course of business on written instructions or applications directed to the INSURED authorizing or acknowledging the transfer, payment, delivery or receipt of funds or other Property, which instructions or applications purport to bear the handwritten signature of: (1) any Customer of the INSURED, or (2) any shareholder or subscriber to shares of an Investment Company, or (3) any banking institution, stockbroker or Employee but which instructions or applications either bear a Forgery or a fraudulent material alteration without the knowledge and consent of such Customer, shareholder, subscriber to shares, banking institution, stockbroker, or Employee.

There is no coverage under this Forgery Or Alteration Coverage IV for any loss covered under Coverage V. OR IX. of this bond, whether or not Coverages V. or IX. are provided by this bond.

A mechanically reproduced facsimile signature is deemed to be the same as a handwritten signature.

V. SECURITIES

Loss directly resulting from the INSURED, in good faith and in the ordinary course of business, whether for its own account or for the account of others having:

a. acquired, accepted or received, sold, delivered, given value, extended credit, or assumed liability upon any original Securities, documents or other written instruments which:

1. bear a Forgery or fraudulent material alteration,

2. have been lost or stolen, or

3. are Counterfeit, or

b. guaranteed in writing or witnessed signatures upon transfers, assignments, bills of sale, powers of attorney, guarantees, endorsements or other obligations in connection with any Securities, documents or other written instruments which pass or purport to pass title to them.

Actual and continued physical possession of such Securities, documents or other written instruments by an Employee, Custodian, or a Federal or State chartered deposit institution is a condition precedent to the INSURED having relied on such items and release or return of such items will be deemed to be an acknowledgement by the INSURED of not having relied on such items.

A mechanically reproduced facsimile signature is deemed to be the same as a handwritten signature.

VI. COUNTERFEIT CURRENCY

Loss directly resulting from the receipt by the INSURED, in good faith and in the ordinary course of business, of Counterfeit money orders, currencies or coin of any country.

VII. COMPUTER SYSTEMS FRAUDULENT ENTRY

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from fraudulent entry of data into or the change of data elements or programs within the INSUREDS proprietary Computer System or a Computer System operated or used by the INSURED and stated in the application, if the fraudulent entry or change results in:

a. Property being transferred, paid or delivered,

b. an account of the INSURED, or of its Customer, being added, deleted, debited, or credited, or

c. an unauthorized account or a fictitious account being debited or credited.

IC 00 H003 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 4 of 16 F-6000-0

VIII.VOICE INITIATED TRANSACTION

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from a Voice Initiated Transaction directed to the INSURED and authorizing the transfer of dividends or redemption proceeds of Investment Company shares from a Customers" account, provided such Voice Initiated Transaction was:

a. received at the INSUREDS offices by those Employees of the INSURED authorized to receive the Voice Initiated Transaction, and

b. made by a person purporting to be a Customer, and

c. made by such person for the purpose of causing the INSURED or Customer to suffer a loss or making an improper personal financial gain for such person or any other person, and

d. initiated pursuant to a preexisting written agreement between the Customer and the INSURED.

In order for coverage to apply under this Coverage, all Voice Initiated Transactions must be received and processed in good faith, and in the ordinary course of business in accordance with the Procedures established in the application.

IX. TELEFACSIMILE TRANSFER FRAUD

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from the INSURED having, in good faith, and in the ordinary course of business, transferred or delivered Funds, certificated securities or uncertificated securities through a Computer System covered under the Computer Systems Fraudulent Entry Coverage in reliance upon a fraudulent instruction received through a Telefacsimile Device, and which instruction was received at the INSUREDs offices by those Employees of the INSURED authorized to receive the Telefacsimile Device instruction and which:

(1) purports and reasonably appears to have originated from

(a) a Client of the INSURED,

(b) another office of the INSURED, or

(c) another financial institution,

but, was not originated by the Client or entity whose identification it bears and

(2) such instruction contains a valid test code which proves to have been used by a person who was not authorized to use it and,

(3) contains the name of a person authorized to initiate such transfer; and

if the transfer was in excess of the Telefacsimile Transfer Fraud Coverage Deductible stated in Item 3. of the Declarations Page, the instruction was verified by a call-back according to a pre-arranged procedure.

For the purposes of this Coverage, Client means an entity or individual which has through a written agreement with the INSURED authorized the INSURED to rely on Telefacsimile Device instructions to initiate transfers and has provided the INSURED with the names of persons authorized to make such transfers, and with which the INSURED has established an instruction verification procedure. Funds means money on deposit in an account.

In addition to the Conditions and Limitations in the bond, the following provisions are applicable to the Telefacsimile Transfer Fraud Coverage:

Telefacsimile Device means a machine capable of sending or receiving an image of a document by electronic means transmitted through a telephone line and which reproduces the exact duplicate of the document on paper.

IC 00 H003 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 5 of 16 F-6000-0

This Coverage (Telefacsimile Transfer Fraud) does not cover loss resulting directly or indirectly from the assumption of liability by the INSURED by contract unless the liability arises from a loss covered by the Telefacsimile Transfer Fraud Coverage and would be imposed on the INSURED without the existence of the contract.

Proof of loss for claim under this Coverage must include a copy of the document reproduced by the Telefacsimile Device.

X. UNCOLLECTIBLE ITEMS OF DEPOSIT

Loss directly resulting from the INSURED, in good faith and in the ordinary course of business, crediting an account of a Customer, shareholder or subscriber based on any Items of Deposit which prove to be uncollectible, if the crediting of said account causes:

a. redemptions or withdrawals of the account to be effected,

b. shares to be issued, or

c. payment of dividends,

from an account of an Investment Company.

In order for coverage to apply under this Coverage, the INSURED must hold Items of Deposit for the minimum number of days stated in the application before permitting any redemptions or withdrawals of the account, issuing any shares or paying any dividends with respect to such Items of Deposit.

Items of Deposit are deemed uncollectible when the INSUREDS standard collection procedures have been utilized and have failed to result in collection.

XI. AUDIT EXPENSE

Reasonable expense incurred by the INSURED for an audit or examination required by any governmental regulatory authority or self-regulatory organization and conducted by such authority, organization or their appointee because of the discovery of loss sustained by the INSURED and covered by this bond but only for the part of the audit or examination caused by said loss.

XII. STOP PAYMENT

Loss of any and all sums which the INSURED shall become obligated to pay by reason of the liability imposed upon the INSURED by law for damages:

(m) for having either complied with or failed to comply with any written notice of any Customer or any authorized representative of such Customer to stop payment of any check or draft made or drawn by such Customer or any authorized representative of such Customer or

(n) for having refused to pay any check or draft made or drawn by any Customer or any authorized representative of such Customer.

XIII. UNAUTHORIZED SIGNATURES COVERAGE

Loss to the INSURED directly resulting from the INSURED having in good faith and in the ordinary course of business, accepted, paid or cashed any check, withdrawal order, draft, made or drawn on a Customer's account, which bears the signature or endorsement of one other than a person whose name and signature is on file with the INSURED as a signatory on such account. It shall be a condition precedent to the INSURED'S right of recovery under this Coverage that the INSURED have on file signatures of all persons who are signatories on such account.

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GENERAL CONDITIONS

A. OTHER COMPANIES INSURED UNDER THIS BOND

If more than one corporation, or Investment Company, or combination thereof is included herein as the INSURED:

(1) The total liability of the UNDERWRITER under this bond for loss or losses sustained by one or more or all INSUREDS under the Bond shall not exceed the limit for which the UNDERWRITER would be liable if all losses were sustained by only one of them.

(2) The first named INSURED shall be deemed to be the sole agent of all of the other INSUREDS hereunder for all purposes under this bond, including but not limited to giving or receiving any notice or proof required to be given herein and for the purpose of effecting or accepting amendments to or termination of this bond. The UNDERWRITER shall give each Investment Company a copy of this bond and any amendment hereto, a copy of each formal filing of claim by any other named INSURED and the terms of the settlement of each claim prior to the execution of such settlement.

(3) The UNDERWRITER bears no responsibility under this Bond for the proper application of any payment made to the first named INSURED.

(4) For the purposes of the bond, knowledge possessed or discovery made by any partner, director, trustee, officer or supervisory Employee of any INSURED constitutes knowledge or discovery by all the INSUREDS.

(5) If the first named INSURED for any reason, ceases to be covered under this bond, then the INSURED next named shall henceforth be considered as the first named INSURED for the purposes mentioned in (2) above.

B. NOTICE TO UNDERWRITER OF MERGERS, CONSOLIDATIONS OR OTHER ACQUISITIONS

While this bond is in force, if the INSURED, other than an Investment Company, merges or consolidates with, or purchases or acquires assets or liabilities of another entity, the INSURED shall not have the coverage afforded under this bond for loss which:

a. has or will occur in offices or on premises acquired, or

b. has or will be caused by an Employee or Employees acquired, or

c. has or will arise out of the assets or liabilities acquired,

unless the INSURED:

i. gives the UNDERWRITER written notice of the proposed consolidation, merger, purchase or acquisition of assets or liabilities prior to the proposed effective date of such action, and

ii. obtains the written consent of the UNDERWRITER to extend the coverage provided by this bond in whole or in part to such additional exposure, and

iii. upon obtaining such consent pays an additional premium to the UNDERWRITER.

C. CHANGE OF CONTROL  NOTICE TO UNDERWRITER

When the INSURED becomes aware of a change in control (other than in an Investment Company), as defined in Section 2(a) (9) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, the INSURED shall, within thirty (30) days, give written notice to the UNDERWRITER setting forth:

(1) the names of the transferors and transferees (or if the voting securities are registered in another name the names of the beneficial owners),

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(2) the total number of voting securities owned by the transferors and the transferees (or the beneficial owners), both immediately before and after the date of the transfer, and

(3) the total number of outstanding voting securities.

The failure to give the above required notice shall result in termination of coverage as to any loss involving a transferee, effective on the date of such change in control.

D. REPRESENTATIONS MADE BY INSURED

The INSURED represents to the UNDERWRITER that all information it has furnished either in the application for this bond or other documentation is complete, true and correct. Such application and other documentation constitute part of this bond.

The INSURED must promptly notify the UNDERWRITER of any change in any fact or circumstance that materially affects the risk assumed by the UNDERWRITER under this bond.

Any intentional misrepresentation, omission, concealment or incorrect statement of a material fact, in the application or related documentation, shall be grounds for rescission of this bond.

DEFINITIONS AND LIMITATIONS

I. DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of the Coverage provided by this bond:

A. Computer Systems means:

(1) computers, including related peripheral and storage components,

(2) systems and applications software,

(3) terminal devices, and

(4) related communication networks

by which data is electronically assembled, transmitted, processed, stored, and retrieved.

B. Counterfeit means an imitation of an actual and valid original which is intended to deceive and be taken as the original.

C. Custodian means the institution designated by an Investment Company to have possession and control of its assets.

D. Customer means an individual, corporation, partnership, trust, or LLC which is a shareholder or subscriber of the INSURED.

E. Employee means:

(1) a corporate officer of the INSURED;

(2) a natural person while in the regular service of the INSURED at any of the INSUREDS offices and who is compensated directly by the INSURED through its payroll system and subject to the United States Internal Revenue Service Form W-2 or equivalent income reporting of other countries, and whom the INSURED has the right to control and direct both as to the result to be accomplished and details and means by which such result is accomplished in the performance of such service;

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(3) an attorney retained by the INSURED or an employee of such attorney while either is performing legal services for the INSURED;

(4) a person furnished by an employment contractor to perform clerical, premises maintenance or security duties for the INSURED under the INSUREDS supervision at any of the INSUREDS offices or premises;

(5) an employee of an institution which has been merged or consolidated with the INSURED prior to the effective date of this bond;

(6) a student or intern pursuing studies or performing duties in any of the INSUREDS offices;

(7) each natural person, partnership or corporation authorized by written agreement with the INSURED to perform services as an electronic data processor of checks or other accounting records related to such checks but only while such person, partnership or corporation is actually performing such services and not:

a. creating, preparing, modifying or maintaining the INSUREDS computer software or programs; or

b. acting as a transfer agent or in any other agency capacity in issuing checks, drafts or securities for the INSURED;

(8) a director or trustee of the INSURED, but only while performing acts within the scope of the customary and usual duties of an officer or Employee of the INSURED or while acting as a member of any duly elected or appointed committee to examine, audit or have custody of or access to Property of the INSURED; or

(9) any partner, officer or employee of an investment adviser, an underwriter (distributor), a transfer agent or shareholder record keeper, or an administrator, for an Investment Company while performing acts within the scope of the customary and usual duties of an officer or employee of an Investment Company or acting as a member of any duly elected or appointed committee to examine, audit or have custody of or access to Property of an Investment Company.

The term Employee, shall not include any partner, officer or employee of a transfer agent, shareholder record keeper or administrator:

a. which is not an affiliated person (as defined in Section 2(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940) of an Investment Company or of the investment advisor or underwriter (distributor) of such Investment Company; or

b. which is a bank (as defined in Section 2(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940).

This coverage provided by the bond does not afford coverage in favor of the employers of persons as set forth in (4) and (7) above, and in the event of any payment to the INSURED by the UNDERWRITER directly resulting from Larceny or Embezzlement committed by any of the partners, officers or employees of such employers, whether acting alone or in collusion with others, an assignment of the INSUREDS rights and causes of action as they may have against such employers because of such acts shall, to the extent of such payment, be given by the INSURED to the UNDERWRITER, and the INSURED shall execute all documents necessary to secure the rights provided for herein.

Each employer of persons as set forth in (3), (4) and (7) above and the partners, officers and other employees of such employers shall collectively be deemed to be one person for the purposes of this bond, excepting, however, the last paragraph of the Termination-Cancellation Section.

Independent contractors not specified in (3), (4) and (7) above, intermediaries, agents, brokers or other representatives of the same type shall not be considered Employees.

F. Forgery" means the signing of the name of another person or organization with the intent to deceive with or without authority, in any capacity, for any purpose but does not mean a signature which consists in whole or in part of ones own name.

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G. Investment Company means an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and as shown under the NAME OF INSURED on the DECLARATIONS.

H. Items of Deposit means one or more checks or drafts drawn upon a financial institution in the United States of America.

I. Larceny or Embezzlement means Larceny or Embezzlement as set forth in Section 37 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

J. Property means:

a. currency, coin, bank notes, or Federal Reserve notes (money), postage and revenue stamps, U.S. Savings Stamps, securities, including notes, stock, treasury stock, bonds, debentures, certificates of deposit;

b. certificates of interests or participation in any profit-sharing agreement, collateral trust certificate, preorganization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, voting trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas, or other mineral rights, interests or instruments commonly known as securities under the Investment Company Act of 1940, any other certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guarantee of, or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase any of the foregoing;

c. bills of exchange, acceptances, checks, drafts, withdrawal orders, money orders, travelers checks, letters of credit, bills of lading, abstracts of title, insurance policies, deeds, mortgages of real estate and/or of chattels and interests therein, assignments of such mortgages and instruments, including books of accounts and written records used by the INSURED in the conduct of its business; and

d. electronic representation of the instruments enumerated above (but excluding all electronic data processing records) in which the INSURED acquired an interest at the time of the INSUREDS consolidation or merger with, or purchase of the principal assets of, a predecessor or which are held by the INSURED for any purpose or in any capacity whether held gratuitously or whether or not the INSURED is liable therefor.

K. Securities, documents or other written instruments means original (including original counterparts) negotiable or nonnegotiable instruments, or assignments thereof, which by themselves represent an equitable interest, ownership, or debt and which are transferable in the ordinary course of business by delivery of such instruments with any necessary endorsements or assignments.

L. Transportation Company means any entity which provides its own or leased vehicles for transportation or provides freight forwarding or air express services.

M. Voice Initiated Election means any election related to dividend options available to an Investment Company shareholders or subscribers which is executed by voice over the telephone.

N. Voice Initiated Redemption means any redemption of shares issued by an Investment Company which is initiated by voice over the telephone.

O. "Voice Initiated Transaction(s) means any Voice Initiated Redemption or Voice Initiated Election.

II. EXCLUSIONS

A. EXCLUSIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL COVERAGES

This bond does not directly or indirectly cover:

(1) loss not reported to the UNDERWRITER in writing within thirty (30) days after termination of all of the Coverages under this bond;

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(2) loss due to riot or civil commotion outside the United States of America and Canada, or any loss due to military, naval or usurped power, war or insurrection. However, this exclusion shall not apply to loss which occurs in transit under the circumstances enumerated in Coverage III TRANSIT, provided that when such transit was undertaken there was no knowledge on the part of any person acting for the INSURED in undertaking such transit of such riot, civil commotion, military, naval or usurped power, war or insurrection;

(3) loss resulting from dishonest acts of any member of the Board of Directors or Board of Trustees of the INSURED who is not an Employee, acting alone or in collusion with others;

(4) loss, which in whole or in part, results solely from any violation by the INSURED or by any Employee of any law, or rule, or regulation pertaining to any law regulating:

a. the issuance, purchase or sale of securities,

b. transactions on security or commodity exchanges or over-the-counter markets,

c. investment advisors, or

d. investment companies

unless such loss, in the absence of such laws, rules or regulations, would be covered under Coverages I. or IV.;

(5) loss of potential income including, but not limited to, interest and dividends not realized by the INSURED or by any Customer of the INSURED;

(6) loss resulting from indirect or consequential loss of any nature;

(7) any damages other than compensatory damages (but not multiples thereof) for which the INSURED is legally liable, arising from a loss covered under this bond;

(8) loss resulting from the effects of nuclear fission, fusion, radioactivity, or chemical or biological contamination;

(9) loss resulting from the theft or misuse of confidential information, material or data except that this exclusion shall not apply to the transfer or payment of money;

(10) costs, fees and expenses incurred by the INSURED in proving the existence or amount of loss under this bond, provided however, this EXCLUSION shall not apply to Coverage XI.;

(11) loss resulting from voice requests or instructions transmitted over the telephone, provided however, this EXCLUSION shall not apply to Coverage VIII. and Coverage IX.;

(12) loss sustained by one INSURED to the advantage of any other INSURED, or subsidiary or entity in which the INSURED, its majority shareholder, partner, or owner has a majority interest therein, provided that an INSURED, upon discovery of the loss, can cause the principal sum to be restored to the INSURED who suffered the loss.

B. SPECIFIC EXCLUSIONS  APPLICABLE TO ALL COVERAGES EXCEPT COVERAGE I.

This bond does not directly or indirectly cover:

(1) loss caused by an Employee, provided, however, this EXCLUSION shall not apply to loss covered under Coverages II. or III. which results directly from misplacement, mysterious disappearance, or damage to or destruction of Property;

(2) loss through the surrender of Property away from an office of the INSURED as a result of a threat:

a. to do bodily harm to any person, except loss of Property in transit in the custody of any person acting as messenger of the INSURED, provided that when such transit was undertaken there was no knowledge by the INSURED or any person acting as messenger of the INSURED of any such threat or

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b. to do damage to the premises or Property of the INSURED;

(3) loss involving Items of Deposit which are not finally paid for any reason provided however, that this EXCLUSION shall not apply to Coverage X.;

(4) loss resulting from payments made or withdrawals from any account involving erroneous credits to such account;

(5) loss of Property while in the mail;

(6) loss of Property while in the custody of a Transportation Company, provided however, that this EXCLUSION shall not apply to Coverage III.;

(7) loss resulting from the failure for any reason of a financial or depository institution, its receiver or other liquidator to pay or deliver funds or other Property to the INSURED but this EXCLUSION shall not apply to loss of Property directly resulting from robbery, burglary, misplacement, mysterious disappearance, damage, destruction or abstraction from the possession, custody or control of the INSURED.

C. EXCLUSIONS -APPLICABLE TO ALL COVERAGES EXCEPT COVERAGES I., IV., V.

This bond does not directly or indirectly cover:

(1) loss resulting from Forgery or any alteration;

(2) loss resulting from the complete or partial non-payment of or default on any loan whether such loan was procured in good faith or through trick, artifice, fraud or false pretenses;

(3) loss involving a Counterfeit provided, however, this EXCLUSION shall not apply to Coverage VI., X., and XIII.

III. DISCOVERY

This bond applies only to loss first discovered by any partner, director, trustee, officer or supervisory Employee of the INSURED during the Bond Period. Discovery of loss is deemed to occur at the earliest point that such individuals become aware of:

(1) facts which may subsequently result in a loss of a type covered by this bond, or

(2) an actual or potential claim in which it is alleged that the INSURED is liable to a third party,

regardless of when the act or acts causing or contributing to such loss occurred and even if the amount of actual or potential loss does not exceed the applicable Deductible or the exact amount or details of the loss are not known.

IV. NOTICE  PROOF  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AGAINST UNDERWRITER

(1) At the earliest practicable time, not to exceed thirty (30) days after discovery of the loss, the INSURED shall give the UNDERWRITER notice thereof.

(2) Within six (6) months after such discovery, the INSURED shall furnish to the UNDERWRITER a proof of loss, duly sworn to, with full particulars of the loss.

(3) Securities issued with a certificate or bond number shall be identified in a proof of loss by such numbers.

(4) Legal proceedings for the recovery of any loss under this bond shall not be brought prior to the expiration of sixty (60) days after the proof of loss is filed with the UNDERWRITER or after the expiration of twenty-four (24) months from the discovery of such loss.

(5) This bond affords coverage only to the INSURED. No claim, suit, action, or legal ]proceedings shall be brought under this bond by anyone other than the INSURED.

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V. LIMIT OF LIABILITY/NON-REDUCTION AND NON-ACCUMULATION OF LIABILITY

Prior to the termination of this bond, it shall continue in force for the limit stated in the applicable section of ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS, notwithstanding any previous loss for which the UNDERWRITER may have paid or be liable to pay under this bond provided, that the liability of the UNDERWRITER under this bond with respect to all loss resulting from:

(1) any one act of burglary, robbery or attempt thereat, in which no Employee is concerned or implicated, or

(2) any one unintentional or negligent act on the part of any one person resulting in damage to or destruction or misplacement of Property, or

(3) all acts, other than those specified in (1) above, of any one person, or

(4) any one casualty or event other than those specified in (1), (2), or (3) above,

shall be deemed to be one loss and shall be limited to the applicable Limit of Liability stated in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS of this bond irrespective of the total amount of such loss or losses. The Limit of Liability shall not be cumulative in amounts from year to year or from period to period.

All acts, as specified in (3) above, of any one person which directly or indirectly aid in any way wrongful acts of any other person or persons or permit the continuation of wrongful acts of any other person or persons whether such acts are committed with or without the knowledge of the wrongful acts of the person so aided and whether such acts are committed with or without the intent to aid such other person, shall be deemed to be one loss with the wrongful acts of all persons so aided.

VI. DEDUCTIBLE

The UNDERWRITER shall not be liable under any Coverages under this bond because of loss unless the amount of such loss, after deducting the net amount of all reimbursement and/or recovery obtained or made by the INSURED, other than any amounts recovered under any bond or policy of insurance issued by an insurance company and covering such loss, or recoveries by the UNDERWRITER on account thereof prior to payment by the UNDERWRITER of such loss, shall exceed the Deductible set forth in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS, and then for such amounts that are in excess of the deductible, but in no event for more than the applicable Limit of Liability stated in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS.

There is no Deductible applicable to any loss under Coverage I. sustained by any Investment Company.

VII. ATTORNEYS FEES AND COURT COSTS

The UNDERWRITER will indemnify the INSURED for reasonable attorneys fees and court costs incurred and paid by the INSURED in the defense, whether or not successful, fully litigated on the merits or settled, of any suit or legal proceeding brought against the INSURED to enforce the INSUREDS liability or alleged liability because of any loss, claim or damage which, if established against the INSURED, would constitute a loss sustained by the INSURED and covered under the terms of this bond except that with respect to Coverage I. this Section shall only apply in the event that:

(1) an Employee acknowledges being guilty of Larceny or Embezzlement,

(2) an Employee is adjudicated guilty of Larceny or Embezzlement, or

(3) in the absence of (1) or (2) above, an arbitration panel decides, after a review of any agreed statement of facts between the UNDERWRITER and the INSURED, that an Employee would be found guilty of Larceny or Embezzlement if such Employee were prosecuted.

The INSURED shall at the earliest practicable time, not to exceed thirty (30) days after the discovery of any such claim, suit or legal proceeding, and at the request of the UNDERWRITER, furnish copies of all pleadings and relevant papers to the UNDERWRITER. The UNDERWRITER may, at its sole option, elect to control the defense of all or part of such suit or legal proceeding. The defense by the UNDERWRITER shall be in the name of the INSURED through attorneys chosen by the UNDERWRITER. The INSURED shall provide all reasonable information and assistance required by the UNDERWRITER for such defense.

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If the amount demanded in a suit or legal proceeding is greater than the Limit of Liability stated in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS for the applicable Coverage, or if a Deductible is applicable, or both, the UNDERWRITERS liability for attorneys fees and court costs incurred in defending all or part of such suit or legal proceeding is limited to the proportion of such attorneys fees and court costs incurred that the Limit of Liability stated in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS for the applicable Coverage bears to the total of the amount demanded in such suit or legal proceeding.

All amounts indemnified by the UNDERWRITER for attorneys fees and court costs shall be in addition to the Limit of Liability stated in ITEM 3. of the DECLARATIONS.

If the UNDERWRITER declines to defend the INSURED, no settlement or judgment against the INSURED shall determine the existence, extent or amount of coverage under this bond without the prior written consent of the UNDERWRITER and the UNDERWRITER shall not be liable for any costs, fees and expenses incurred by the INSURED.

VIII. VALUATION OF PROPERTY

The value of any loss of Property, other than books of account or other records used by the INSURED in the conduct of its business, shall be determined by the average market value of such Property on the business day immediately preceding discovery of such loss except that the value of any Property replaced by the INSURED with the consent of the UNDERWRITER prior to the settlement of any claim for such Property, shall be the actual market value at the time of replacement.

In the event of a loss of interim certificates, warrants, rights or other securities, (as used herein, options) which need to be presented to exercise the subscription, conversion, redemption or deposit privileges, their value shall be:

a. if such options have not expired, the average market value of such options on the business day immediately preceding the discovery of such loss, or the actual market value at the time of agreed replacement as provided in the preceding paragraph, or

b. if such options have expired at the time their loss is discovered, their market value immediately preceding their expiration, or

c. if no market price is quoted for such Property or for such options, the value shall be determined by agreement between the parties, or arbitration if the parties are unable to agree to the value.

The value of any loss of Property consisting of books of account or other records used by the INSURED in the conduct of its business shall be the amount paid by the INSURED for blank books, blank pages, or other materials which replace the lost books of account or other records, plus the cost of labor paid by the INSURED for the actual transcription or copying of data to reproduce such books of account or other records.

IX. VALUATION OF PREMISES AND FURNISHINGS

In the event of loss or damage to any office of the INSURED or to the furnishings, fixtures, supplies, equipment, safes or vaults, the UNDERWRITER shall not be liable for more than the actual cash value thereof, or for more than the actual cost of replacement or repair. The UNDERWRITER may, at its option, pay actual cash value or make replacement or repair. In the event the UNDERWRITER and the INSURED cannot agree upon the actual cash value or the cost of replacement or repair, it shall be determined by arbitration.

X. SECURITIES SETTLEMENT

In the event of a loss of securities covered under this bond, the UNDERWRITER may, at its sole option, purchase replacement securities, tender the value of the securities in money, or issue its indemnity in order to allow the issuance of replacement securities.

Indemnity will be required from the INSURED under the terms of this Section against all loss, cost or expense arising from the replacement of securities by the UNDERWRITERS. The amount of such indemnity from the INSURED shall be:

(1) for securities having a value of less than or equal to the applicable Deductible  one hundred percent (100%);

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(2) for securities having a value greater than the Deductible but within the applicable Limit of Liability  the percentage that the Deductible bears to the value of the securities;

(3) for securities having a value greater than the applicable Limit of Liability  the percentage that the Deductible and the portion in excess of the applicable Limit of Liability bears to the value of the securities.

The value referred to in (1), (2), and (3) above is the value provided for in SECTION VIII. VALUATION OF PROPERTY, regardless of the value of such securities at the time the loss under the UNDERWRITERS indemnity is sustained.

The UNDERWRITER is not required to issue its indemnity for any portion of a loss of securities which is not covered by this bond; however, the UNDERWRITER may do so at its sole option.

The INSURED shall pay the applicable proportion of the UNDERWRITERS premium charge for the UNDERWRITERS indemnity as set for in (1), (2), and (3) above. No portion of the Limit of Liability shall be used as payment of premium for any indemnity purchased by the INSURED to obtain replacement securities.

XI. SUBROGATION  ASSIGNMENT  RECOVERY

In the event of a payment under this bond by the UNDERWRITER, the UNDERWRITER shall be subrogated to all of the INSUREDS rights of recovery against any person or entity to the extent of such payment. On the request of the UNDERWRITER, the INSURED shall deliver to the UNDERWRITER an assignment of the INSUREDS rights, title and interest and causes of action against any person or entity to the extent of such payment.

Recoveries, whether realized by the UNDERWRITER or by the INSURED, shall be applied after deducting the expense of such recovery, first to the INSUREDS loss which would otherwise have been paid except that it exceeds the applicable Limit of Liability, second, to the UNDERWRITER to amounts paid in settlement of the INSURED'S claim and third, to the INSURED to the applicable Deductible. Recovery from reinsurance and/or indemnity of the UNDERWRITER shall not be a recovery under this section.

XII. COOPERATION OF INSURED

At the UNDERWRITERS request and at reasonable times and places designated by the UNDERWRITER, the INSURED shall submit to examination by the UNDERWRITER and subscribe to the same under oath, produce for the UNDERWRITERS examination and copying, at its own expense all relevant records, and cooperate with the UNDERWRITER in all matters pertaining to the loss.

The INSURED shall execute all papers and provide assistance to secure for the UNDERWRITER the rights and causes of action provided for under this bond. The INSURED shall do nothing after loss to prejudice such rights or causes of action.

XIII. OTHER INSURANCE

Coverage under this bond shall apply excess over any valid and collectible insurance, indemnity or suretyship obtained by or on behalf of the INSURED or a Transportation Company or other entity on whose premises the loss occurred or which employed the person who caused the loss or engaged the messenger conveying the Property which was the subject of the loss.

XIV. TERMINATION-CANCELLATION

If the bond is for a single INSURED, it shall not be terminated or canceled unless written notice is given by the acting party to the affected party and to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D.C., not less than sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of such termination or cancellation.

If the bond is for a joint INSURED, it shall not be terminated or canceled unless written notice is given by the acting party to the affected party, and by the UNDERWRITER to all INSURED Investment Companies and to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D.C., not less than sixty (60) days prior to the effective date of such termination or cancellation.

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This bond will terminate as to any one INSURED, other than an Investment Company, immediately upon the taking over of such INSURED by a receiver or other liquidator or by State or Federal officials, or immediately upon the filing of a petition under any State or Federal statute relative to bankruptcy or reorganization of the INSURED, or assignment for the benefit of creditors of the INSURED, or immediately upon such INSURED ceasing to exist, whether through merger with another entity, disposition of all of its assets or otherwise.

The UNDERWRITER shall refund the unearned premium in accordance with the standard short rate cancellation tables if terminated by the INSURED or pro rata if terminated for any other reason.

Coverage will terminate as to any Employee:

(1) at the time that any partner, director, trustee, or officer or supervisory Employee not acting in collusion with such Employee, learns of any dishonest act committed by such Employee at any time, whether in the employment of the INSURED or otherwise, whether or not such act is of the type covered under this bond, and whether against the INSURED or any other person or entity or

(2) sixty (60) days after the receipt by each INSURED and by the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D.C., of a written notice from the UNDERWRITER of its desire to terminate this bond as to such Employee.

XV. CHANGE OR MODIFICATION

No change in or modification of this bond shall be effective except by written rider to this bond issued by an Authorized Representative of the UNDERWRITER.

If this bond is for a single INSURED, no change or modification which adversely affects the rights of the INSURED shall be effective prior to sixty (60) days after written notice of such change or modification has been furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D.C., by the acting party.

If this bond is for a joint INSURED, no change or modification which adversely affects the rights of the INSURED shall be effective prior to sixty (60) days after written notice of such change or modification has been furnished to all insured Investment Companies and to the Securities and Exchange Commission, Washington, D.C., by the UNDERWRITER.

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GU207

(6-78)

ENDORSEMENT

This endorsement, effective on 08/01/2023 at 12:01 A.M standard time, forms a part of

Policy No. 30 FI 0551074-23 of the HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO. Issued to PEAR TREE FUNDS

Ross Fisher, President

SCHEDULE OF RIDERS IC00H00300 8/03 INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND RN00U00100 5/93 IN WITNESS PAGE IC00M00500 9/21 AMEND B. NOTICE TO UNDERWRITER OF MERGERS, CONSOLIDATIONS OR OTHER ACQUISITIONS - AUTOMATIC COVERAGE FOR NEW INVESTMENT COMPANIES IC00H03000 8/03 CLAIM EXPENSE IC00H00500 8/03 MANDATORY SIGNATURES IC00M00300 1/16 ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE ($250,000 SUB-LIMIT) IC00H00700 8/03 SUBSIDIARY RIDER HG00H12900 10/16 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, OFFICE OF FOREIGN ASSETS CONTROL ("OFAC") HR00H09300 2/07 PRODUCER COMPENSATION NOTICE

Rev. Ed. Date (04/02)

GU 207 (6-78)

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company has caused this policy to be executed and attested, and if required by state law, this policy shall not be valid unless countersigned by a duly authorized representative of the Company.

HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

HOME OFFICE  HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES - HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT

(A STOCK INSURANCE COMPANY MEMBER OF THE HARTFORD)

Kevin Barnett, Secretary Ross Fisher, President

RN 00 U001 00 0593

ILBP 83 01 11 88 UP

30 FI 0551074-23 08/01/2023

RIDER: 1

This rider, effective 12:01 am, 08/01/2023 forms part

of bond number 30 FI 0551074-23 issued to: PEAR TREE FUNDS by: HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

THIS RIDER CHANGES THE BOND. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

AMEND B. NOTICE TO UNDERWRITER OF MERGERS, CONSOLIDATIONS OR OTHER

ACQUISITIONS  AUTOMATIC COVERAGE FOR NEW INVESTMENT COMPANIES

This rider modifies coverage provided under:

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

It is agreed that:

1. GENERAL CONDITIONS, B. NOTICE TO UNDERWRITER OF MERGERS, CONSOLIDATIONS OR OTHER ACQUISITIONS is amended to include the following paragraph:

If the INSURED shall, while this bond is in force, establish any new "Investment Companies" by:

a. the creation thereof; or

b. consolidation or merger with, or purchase or acquisition of assets or liabilities, of another institution;

then any such new "Investment Companies" shall automatically be covered hereunder from the date of such establishment without the payment of additional premium for the remainder of such Bond Period.

2. If the INSURED shall, while this bond is in force, require an increase in limits to comply with SEC Reg. 17g-1, due to an increase in asset size of current "Investment Companies" covered under this bond or the addition of new "Investment Companies," such increase in limits shall automatically be covered hereunder from the date of such increase without the payment of additional premium for the remainder of the Bond Period.

3. Nothing herein is intended to alter the terms, conditions and limitations of the bond other than as stated above.

All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

Ross Fisher, President

IC 00 M005 00 0921  2021, The Hartford Page 1 of 1

RIDER: 2

forms part

This rider, effective 12:01 am, 08/01/2023 of bond number 30 FI 0551074-23 issued to: PEAR TREE FUNDS by: HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

THIS RIDER CHANGES THE BOND. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

CLAIM EXPENSE RIDER

This rider modifies coverage provided under:

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

It is agreed that:

1. The attached bond is hereby amended by adding to Coverage I. Employee an additional coverage as follows:

CLAIM EXPENSE

Reasonable expense necessarily incurred and paid by the INSURED in preparing any valid claim for loss caused by Larceny or Embezzlement committed by of any of the INSUREDS Employees, which loss exceeds the Deductible applicable to Coverage I. Employee. The total Liability of the UNDERWRITER for such expense by reason of such acts of any Employee or in which such Employee is implicated is limited to the amount stated under provision 2. of this rider which is in excess of the Deductible amount stated under provision 3. of this rider.

2. The Limit of Liability for the coverage provided by this rider shall be $50,000.

3. The Deductible amount applicable to the coverage provided by this rider shall be $5,000.

4. Exclusion A. (10) does not apply to the additional coverage provided by this rider.

5. Except as stated above, the coverage provided by this rider is subject to all of the terms, conditions, agreements and limitations of the Investment Company Bond to which it is attached.

CLAIM EXPENSE RIDER IC 00 H030 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 1 of 2 F-6056-0

RIDER NO: 2

ADOPTED MAY 2008

IC 00 H030 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 2 of 2 F-6056-0

RIDER: 3

forms part

This rider, effective 12:01 am, 08/01/2023 of bond number 30 FI 0551074-23 issued to: PEAR TREE FUNDS by: HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

THIS RIDER CHANGES THE BOND. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

MANDATORY SIGNATURES

This rider modifies coverage provided under:

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

This bond has been signed by our President and Secretary, but it shall not be binding unless countersigned on the Declarations page by our duly authorized representative.

Kevin Barnett, Secretary Ross Fisher, President Authorized Signature Authorized Signature

MANDATORY

ADOPTED MAY, 2003

IC 00 H005 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 1 of 1 F-6016-0

RIDER: 4

forms part

This rider, effective 12:01 am, 08/01/2023 of bond number 30 FI 0551074-23 issued to: PEAR TREE FUNDS by: HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

THIS RIDER CHANGES THE BOND. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE ($250,000 SUB-LIMIT)

This rider modifies coverage provided under:

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

The COVERAGES section of this bond is amended by adding Coverage as follows:

ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE

Loss directly resulting from the INSURED having, in good faith, transferred or delivered Funds, certificated Securities or uncertificated Securities, in reliance upon a fraudulent instruction sent to the Insured through electronic mail, and:

(1) which fraudulent instruction purports and reasonably appears to have originated from:

(a) a Client of the Insured, or

(b) an Employee acting on instructions of such Client, or

(c) another financial institution acting on behalf of such Client with authority to make such instructions; but, in fact, was not originated by the party referenced in (a)  (c) above whose identification it bears; and

(2) the sender of the fraudulent instruction verified the instruction with the required password(s), PIN(s), or other security code(s) of such Client; and

(3) the fraudulent instruction was received by an Employee of the Insured specifically authorized by the Insured to receive and act upon such instructions; and

(4) for any transfer exceeding $5,000, the instruction was verified by the Insured via a call-back to a predetermined telephone number set forth in the Insured's written agreement with such Client, or other verification procedure set forth in the Insured's written agreement with such Client and approved in writing by the Underwriter; and

(5) the Insured preserved a contemporaneous record of the call back and of the instruction which verifies use of the authorized password(s), PIN(s) or other security code(s) of the Client.

With respect to coverage under the ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE, the DEFINITIONS AND LIMITATIONS section of this Bond is amended by the following changes to I. DEFINITIONS:

The following definitions are added:

 "Client" means an entity or individual which has a written agreement with the Insured authorizing the Insured to transfer Funds, certificated Securities or uncertificated Securities in reliance upon electronic mail instructions transmitted to the Insured, and has provided the Insured with the names of persons and entities authorized to initiate such transfers, and with which the Insured has established a call-back verification mechanism, or other verification procedure approved in writing by the Underwriter.

 "Funds" means Money on deposit in an account.

IC 00 M003 00 0116  2016, The Hartford Page 1 of 3

RIDER/ENDORSEMENT NO: 4

The DEFINITIONS AND LIMITATIONS section of this Bond is amended by making the following addition to II. EXCLUSIONS, A. EXCLUSIONS APPLICABLE TO ALL COVERAGES:

 loss resulting directly or indirectly from the Insured having, in good faith, transferred or delivered Funds, certificated Securities or uncertificated Securities, in reliance upon a fraudulent instruction sent to the Insured through electronic mail, except when covered under the ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE;

With respect to coverage under the ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE, the DEFINITIONS AND LIMITATIONS section of this Bond is amended by making the following additions to II. EXCLUSIONS:

EXCLUSIONS APPLICABLE TO THE ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD

COVERAGE This bond does not cover:

 loss resulting directly or indirectly from a fraudulent instruction if the sender, or anyone acting in collusion with the sender, ever had authorized access to such Client's password(s), PIN(s) or other security codes;

 loss resulting directly or indirectly from the fraudulent alteration of an instruction to initiate an automated clearing house (ACH) entry, or group of ACH entries, transmitted as an electronic message, or as an attachment to an electronic message, sent via the Internet, unless:

(1) each ACH entry was individually verified via the call back procedure without regard to the amount of the entry; or

(2) the instruction was formatted, encoded or encrypted so that any alteration in the ACH entry or group of ACH entries would be apparent to the Insured;

 loss resulting directly or indirectly from the assumption of liability by the Insured by contract unless the liability arises from a loss covered by the Electronic Mail Initiated Transfer Fraud Insuring Agreement and would be imposed on the Insured regardless of the existence of the contract,

It shall be a condition precedent to coverage under the ELECTRONIC MAIL TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE that the Insured assert any available claims, offsets or defenses against such Client, any financial institution or any other party to the transaction. Proof of loss for claim under the ELECTRONIC MAIL INITIATED TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE must include a copy of the fraudulent electronic mail which was relied upon to initiate such transfer.

For purposes of the ELECTRONIC MAIL TRANSFER FRAUD COVERAGE, all loss or losses involving one natural person or entity, or one group of natural persons or entities acting together, shall be a single loss without regard to the number of transfers or the number of instructions involved. A series of losses involving unidentified natural persons or entities but arising from the same method of operation shall be deemed to involve the same natural person or entity and shall be treated as a single loss. All acts of any one person which directly or indirectly aid in any way wrongful acts of any other person or persons or permit the continuation of wrongful acts of any other person or persons whether such acts are committed with or without the knowledge of the wrongful acts of the person so aided and whether such acts are committed with or without the intent to aid such other person, shall be deemed to be one loss with the wrongful acts of all persons so aided.

The Limit of Liability shall not be cumulative in amounts from year to year or from period to period. The Limit of Liability provided by this rider shall not exceed $250,000. The Deductible applicable to this coverage shall be $25,000.

All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.

IC 00 M003 00 0116  2016, The Hartford Page 2 of 3

RIDER/ENDORSEMENT NO: 4

Ross Fisher, President

IC 00 M003 00 0116  2016, The Hartford Page 3 of 3

RIDER: 5

forms part

This rider, effective 12:01 am, 08/01/2023 of bond number 30 FI 0551074-23 issued to: PEAR TREE FUNDS by: HARTFORD FIRE INSURANCE CO.

THIS RIDER CHANGES THE BOND. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

SUBSIDIARY RIDER

This rider modifies coverage provided under:

INVESTMENT COMPANY BOND

It is agreed that:

1. The Name of Insured shown in the Declarations, Item 1. is amended to include the following language:

and any interest which at inception or renewal of this bond is 50% or more owned by any one or more of those named as INSUREDS.

2. Nothing herein is intended to alter the terms, conditions, and limitations of the bond other than as stated above.

SUBSIDIARY RIDER

ADOPTED MAY, 2003

IC 00 H007 00 0803  2003, The Hartford Page 1 of 1 F-6002-0

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY, OFFICE OF FOREIGN ASSETS

CONTROL ("OFAC") ADVISORY NOTICE TO POLICYHOLDERS

No coverage is provided by this Policyholder Notice nor can it be construed to replace any provisions of your policy. You should read your policy and review your Declarations page for complete information on the coverages you are provided.

This Notice provides information concerning possible impact on your insurance coverage due to directives issued by the United States. Please read this Notice carefully.

The Office of Foreign Assets Control ("OFAC") of the U.S. Department of the Treasury administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions based on U.S. foreign policy and national security goals against targeted foreign countries and regimes, terrorists, international narcotics traffickers, those engaged in activities related to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and other threats to the national security, foreign policy or economy of the United States. OFAC acts under Presidential national emergency powers, as well as authority granted by specific legislation, to impose controls on transactions and freeze assets under U.S. jurisdiction. OFAC publishes a list of individuals and companies owned or controlled by, or acting for or on behalf of, targeted countries. It also lists individuals, groups, and entities, such as terrorists and narcotics traffickers designated under programs that are not country-specific. Collectively, such individuals and companies are called "Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons" or "SDNs". Their assets are blocked and U.S. persons are generally prohibited from dealing with them. This list can be located on OFAC's web site at  http// www.treas.gov/ofac.

In accordance with OFAC regulations, if it is determined that you or any other insured, or any person or entity claiming the benefits of this insurance has violated U.S. sanctions law or is an SDN, as identified by OFAC, the policy is a blocked contract and all dealings with it must involve OFAC. When an insurance policy is considered to be such a blocked or frozen contract, no payments nor premium refunds may be made without authorization from OFAC.

HG 00 H129 00 1016  2016, The Hartford Page 1 of 1

Producer Compensation Notice

You can review and obtain information on The Hartfords producer compensation practices at www.thehartford.com or at 1-800-592-5717.

F-5267-0 HR 00 H093 00 0207  2007, The Hartford Page 1 of 1 30 FI 0551074-23 08/01/2023

ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT 99.B

EXHIBIT 99.C
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K

CURRENT REPORT

PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported)

Commission Registrant; State of Incorporation; IRS Employer File Number Address; and Telephone Number Identification No. 1-9513 CMS ENERGY CORPORATION (A Michigan Corporation)

One Energy Plaza

Jackson , Michigan 49201

( 517 ) 788-0550 38-2726431 1-5611 CONSUMERS ENERGY COMPANY (A Michigan Corporation)

One Energy Plaza

Jackson , Michigan 49201

( 517 ) 788-0550 38-0442310

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class Trading Symbol(s) Name of each exchange

on which registered CMS Energy Corporation Common Stock, $0.01 par value CMS New York Stock Exchange CMS Energy Corporation 5.625% Junior Subordinated Notes due 2078 CMSA New York Stock Exchange CMS Energy Corporation 5.875% Junior Subordinated Notes due 2078 CMSC New York Stock Exchange CMS Energy Corporation 5.875% Junior Subordinated Notes due 2079 CMSD New York Stock Exchange CMS Energy Corporation, Depositary Shares, each representing a 1/1,000th interest in a share of 4.200% Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series C CMS PRC New York Stock Exchange Consumers Energy Company Cumulative Preferred Stock, $100 par value: $4.50 Series CMS-PB New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (230.405 of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (240.12b-2 of this chapter). Emerging growth company: CMS Energy Corporation  Consumers Energy Company 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. CMS Energy Corporation  Consumers Energy Company 

Co-Registrant CIK 0000201533 Co-Registrant Amendment Flag false Co-Registrant Form Type 8-K Co-Registrant DocumentPeriodEndDate Co-Registrant Written Communications false Co-Registrant Solicitating Materials false Co-Registrant PreCommencement Tender Offer false Co-Registrant PreCommencement Issuer Tender Offer false Emerging Growth Company false

Item 2.02. Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On October 26, 2023, CMS Energy Corporation (CMS Energy) issued a News Release, in which it announced its 2023 third quarter results. Attached as Exhibit 99.1 to this report and incorporated herein by reference is a copy of the CMS Energy News Release, furnished as a part of this report.

Exhibit 99.1 contains certain financial measures that are considered non-GAAP financial measures as defined in Securities and Exchange Commission rules. Other than forward-looking earnings guidance, Exhibit 99.1 contains a reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures to their most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Adjustments could include items such as discontinued operations, asset sales, impairments, restructuring costs, business optimization initiative, changes in accounting principles, voluntary separation program, changes in federal tax policy, regulatory items from prior years, unrealized gains or losses from mark-to-market adjustments, recognized in net income related to NorthStar Clean Energys interest expense, or other items. Management views adjusted earnings as a key measure of the companys present operating financial performance and uses adjusted earnings for external communications with analysts and investors. Internally, the company uses adjusted earnings to measure and assess performance. Because CMS Energy is not able to estimate the impact of specific line items, which have the potential to significantly impact, favorably or unfavorably, reported earnings in future periods, Exhibit 99.1 does not contain reported earnings guidance nor a reconciliation for the comparable future period earnings. The adjusted earnings should be considered supplemental information to assist in understanding our business results, rather than as a substitute for the reported earnings. All references to net income refer to net income available to common stockholders and references to earnings per share are on a diluted basis.

Item 7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure.

The information set forth in the CMS Energy News Release dated October 26, 2023, attached as Exhibit 99.1, is incorporated by reference in response to this Item 7.01.

CMS Energy will hold a webcast to discuss its 2023 third quarter results and provide a business and financial outlook on October 26 at 9:30 a.m. (ET). A copy of the CMS Energy presentation is furnished as Exhibit 99.2 to this report. A webcast of the presentation will be available on the CMS Energy website, www.cmsenergy.com.

In accordance with General Instruction B.2 of Form 8-K, the information in this Current Report on Form 8-K, including Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2, shall not be deemed filed for the purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or otherwise subject to the liabilities of that section, nor shall it be deemed incorporated by reference in any filing under the Securities Act of 1933.

Investors and others should note that CMS Energy routinely posts important information on its website and considers the Investor Relations section, www.cmsenergy.com/investor-relations, a channel of distribution.

Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

(d) Exhibits.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrants have duly caused this report to be signed on their behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

CMS ENERGY CORPORATION Dated: October 26, 2023 By: /s/ Rejji P. Hayes Rejji P. Hayes Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer CONSUMERS ENERGY COMPANY Dated: October 26, 2023 By: /s/ Rejji P. Hayes Rejji P. Hayes Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

ATTACHMENTS / EXHIBITS

EXHIBIT 99.1

EXHIBIT 99.2

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION SCHEMA

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION DEFINITION LINKBASE

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION LABEL LINKBASE

XBRL TAXONOMY EXTENSION PRESENTATION LINKBASE

IDEA: R1.htm

IDEA: tm2329164d1_8k_htm.xml

IDEA: Financial_Report.xlsx

IDEA: FilingSummary.xml

IDEA: MetaLinks.json
Main Post Office, P.O. Box 751 www.asyousow.org Berkeley, CA 94704 BUILDING A SAFE, JUST, AND SUSTAINABLE WORLD SINCE 1992

Notice of Exempt Solicitation Pursuant to Rule 14a-103

Name of the Registrant: Campbell Soup Co

Name of persons relying on exemption: As You Sow

Address of persons relying on exemption: Main Post Office, P.O. Box 751, Berkeley, CA 94704

Written materials are submitted pursuant to Rule 14a-6(g)(1) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Submission is not required of this filer under the terms of the Rule, but is made voluntarily in the interest of public disclosure and consideration of these important issues.

Campbell Soup Co (CPB)

Vote Yes: Item 6  Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

Annual Meeting: November 29, 2023

CONTACT: Grant Bradski | [email protected]

THE RESOLUTION

Resolved: Shareholders request that the Board publish a report, at reasonable expense and omitting confidential information, disclosing how the Company is protecting Plan beneficiaries with a longer investment time horizon from climate risk in the Companys default retirement options.

SUMMARY

The economic consequences of climate change present two-fold material risks to retirement plan beneficiaries, particularly those with retirement dates more than a decade out. On the one hand, investments in carbon- and deforestation-intensive industries contribute to portfolio-wide, systemic risk to beneficiaries investments, such as the risk stemming from physical impacts on infrastructure, supply chains, and resource availability. On the other, investments in those industries are themselves especially subject to long-term financial losses associated with stranded assets, transition costs, and inaccurate valuations. These risks add up; estimates suggest that, in the absence of mitigation in line with the Paris Agreement, climate change will likely result in an 11% to 14% decline in global GDP.1 This will have portfolio-wide consequences to employees saving for retirement.

As both private actors and governments increase efforts to respond to and mitigate climate change, shifting regulatory and business environments will result in increasing transition costs, exacerbating the financial risk faced by plan beneficiaries whose assets have not been responsibly managed in light of these risks. Because the physical, financial, and transition risks associated with a warming climate are expected to increase over time, younger plan beneficiaries with longer investment time horizons can be expected to face higher clima te-related risks than beneficiaries closer to retirement.

_____________________________

1 https://www.swissre.com/media/press-release/nr-20210422-economics-of-climate-change-risks.html

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

This Proposal requests that Campbell Soup Co. (Campbell or the Company) assess and report on how the Company is protecting its 401(k) Plan beneficiaries with a longer investment time horizon from climate risk in the Companys default retirement options. Forty percent of the Plans assets  that is, the deferred wages of Campbell workers  is invested in the Company Plans default option, a series of target-date funds that are heavily exposed to high-carbon and deforestation-intensive industries. These investments are doubly imprudent, as they contribute to systemic climate risk while also being poor long-term investments for younger beneficiaries. The Companys failure to adequately manage climate risk in connection with its 401(k) Plan (the Plan) therefore has the potential to harm beneficiaries, especially younger beneficiaries. This, in turn, may make it more difficult for Campbell to attract and retain top talent, while also undermining the reputational benefits associated with the Companys efforts to address operational and supply chain climate impacts. It also exposes the Company to potential litigation risk.

Simply put: climate change threatens workers life savings. The responsible stewardship of employee retirement plans demands active consideration and management of the Plans contribution to systemic climate risk over different time horizons, as required by beneficiaries best interests. Under federal law, the Board has a fiduciary responsibility to oversee the management of the Plan.2 The Company must demonstrate that it is actively safeguarding employee financial security over time by mitigating climate change-related financial and economic risk as part of a prudently constructed lineup of funds.

RATIONALE FOR A YES VOTE

1. The Companys 401(k) Plans investments in high-carbon and deforestation-intensive industries create climate risk, which threatens workers life savings, particularly those with retirement dates more than a decade out.

2. The climate risk generated by the Companys retirement plan investments creates reputational risk by undermining the Companys credibility on climate issues and may make it difficult to attract and retain top talent.

3. The Companys failure to clearly address the contribution to systemic climate risk from its retirement plans may violate its fiduciary obligation to manage those plans in the best interests of its beneficiaries.

DISCUSSION

1. The Companys 401(k) Plans investments in high-carbon and deforestation-intensive industries create climate risk, which threatens workers life savings, particularly those with retirement dates more than a decade out.

According to recent analysis by As You Sow, Campbells 401(k) Plan invests as much as $97 million in high-carbon industries, or over 6% of total assets in Plan fund options (excluding assets invested in the employee stock option plan and the self-directed brokerage window).3 The Plan, in the aggregate, also invests more than $7 million in deforestation-risk agricultural commodities.4

_____________________________

2 29 C.F.R.  2509.75-8

3 https://investyourvalues.org/retirement-plans/campbell-soup

4 https://investyourvalues.org/retirement-plans/campbell-soup

2

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

Campbell offers Plan participants Vanguard Target Retirement funds, which collectively hold the largest segment  40%  of Plan assets .5 Target Date Funds (TDFs) are an attractive option for Plan administrators, and Plan participants, because they shift the responsibility of reallocating the portfolio over time to the fund manager. However, according to a recent report, TDFs have a 16% higher weighted average carbon intensity relative to all sampled retirement plans.6 True to form, the Vanguard Target Retirement Funds invest significantly in carbon polluters.7

Such investments introduce climate risk into the Plans portfolio in mutually reinforcing ways. As the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) explains, Retirement plans are subject to both physical and transition risks from climate change.8 In terms of physical risk, companies can suffer short-term losses from the increased occurrence of catastrophic storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires, whether from direct impacts on physical infrastructure or from disruptions to supply chains. Physical climate risk also includes longer-term losses from the deleterious effect of intensifying climate impacts on a companys operations over time, such as changing agricultural or weather patterns. Transition risk, meanwhile, includes costs associated with a companys failure to appropriately anticipate and plan for the policy, legal, technological, and market changes needed to transition to a lower-carbon economy.9

These risks add up. The present and future impacts of climate change can endanger the full range of beneficiaries retirement savings. A 2021 Swiss Re report calculated that climate change would result in an 11% to 14% decline in global GDP by 2050, with the impact rising to an 18% decline in the absence of action or falling to 4% with aggressive mitigation.10 A report from the Climate Disclosure Project indicates that 215 of the largest global companies report almost USD $1 trillion at risk from climate impacts, with many losses to hit within the next five years, and a potential $250 billion in losses due to the write-offs of assets .11 The federal governments Fourth National Climate Assessment, published in 2018, estimates annual losses of hundreds of billions of dollars in some sectors.12 A recent study found that the rosy assumptions made in economic studies behind many of the models used by investment consultants are at odds with the scientific literature on the impact of these levels of warming.13

Similarly, high-carbon investments can be a risk in the short term. One study cited by the GAO noted that investments in oil, coal, and gas could experience a decrease in annual returns of 9% through 2050, while annual returns in electric utilities could decline by about 3% over the same timetable.14 In fact, as noted by Bloomberg, investing in renewable power stocks beat a high-carbon strategy by more than threefold in the last decade. 15

_____________________________

5 https://investyourvalues.org/retirement-plans/campbell-soup

6 https://iyv-charts.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/files/U.S.+Retirement+Carbon+Footprint+Report.pdf

7 https://fossilfreefunds.org/fund/vanguard-target-retirement-2050-fund/VFIFX/fossil-fuel-investments/FSUSA072BK/FOUSA05HZH

8 https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-327.pdf

9 https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-327.pdf

10 https://www.swissre.com/media/press-release/nr-20210422-economics-of-climate-change-risks.html

11 https://www.cdp.net/en/articles/media/worlds-biggest-companies-face-1-trillion-in-climate-change-risks

12 https://nca2018.globalchange.gov/

13 https://carbontracker.org/reports/loading-the-dice-against-pensions/

14 https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-327.pdf

15 https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-18/renewable-returns-tripled-versus-fossil-fuels-in-last-decade#xj4y7vzkg

3

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

The transition to a carbon-free economy is underway, with more than 80% of new electrical capacity in 2021 coming from renewable sources.16 As companies and governments take increasingly aggressive steps to respond to climate change, transition costs will increase over time. Failure by Plan fiduciaries to effectively manage climate risk in investing will endanger beneficiaries life savings, particularly those with longer investment time horizons. A 2022 Schroders survey found that 78% of retirement investors believe that companies that are socially responsible (ESG focused) will have better results over time than companies not socially responsible.17

The Plans investments also create climate risk in a more insidious forminvestments in high-carbon companies contribute to and lock in future climate change. High-carbon investments are thus likely to disproportionately impact younger employees who will not access retirement funds for decades. Tax-deferred retirement vehicles like 401(k)s carry tax penalties designed to discourage participants from withdrawing funds prior to age 59 or 60, meaning they are structurally designed as long-term investment vehicles for younger workers. A 30-year-old worker contributing to their employer-offered defined-contribution plan can usually expect to have their funds invested for at least 30 years. As high-carbon investments increase systemic climate risk over time, retirement portfolios face the likelihood of diminishing returns, harming younger workers proportionally more than workers who will access retirement savings in the shorter term. It is unsurprising, therefore, that those with the most at stakeplan beneficiariesoverwhelmingly favor responsible management of climate risk in their retirement portfolios.18

2. The climate risk generated by the Companys retirement plan investments creates reputational risk by undermining the Companys credibility on climate issues and may make it difficult to attract and retain top talent.

Campbell has taken actions to address climate change by committing to delivering a more sustainable future, including a goal of reducing Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 42% on an absolute basis by fiscal 2030 as compared to fiscal 2020 .19 Not only do the Companys 401(k) Plans carbon-intense investments directly undermine this commitment, but they also risk the loss of the Companys reputation on climate.

_____________________________

16 https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/25/climate/energy-transition-solar-wind.html

17 https://www.schroders.com/en-us/us/institutional/clients/defined-contribution/schroders-us-retirement-survey/sustainability/

18 See https://www.schroders.com/en-us/us/institutional/clients/defined-contribution/schroders-us-retirement-survey/sustainability/

19 https://www.campbellsoupcompany.com/our-impact/healthy-environment/

4

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

Increasing public attention is being paid to the contribution of employee retirement plans investments to climate change. A recent Bloomberg report noted that, as of September 2022, 1,500 institutions, representing more than $40 trillion in assets, had committed to reducing exposure to investments in high-carbon industries.20 These include commitments to sell billions of dollars of existing holdings in high-carbon industries from prominent employee retirement funds in New York City,21 Maine,22 and New York state.23 The University of California Retirement Savings Program, which holds $168 billion in assets under management for more than 300,000 participants, has also moved to sell existing holdings and make no future investments in high-carbon industries, citing long term financial risk and the expectation that this decision will have a positive financial and risk-reducing impact on fund performance in the long run.24 In October 2022, the Chicago Public School Teachers Pension & Retirement Fund, which has about 5% of its portfolio invested in fossil fuel industries, announced its plans to sell holdings in high-carbon industries.25

As concern over high-carbon investments becomes increasingly salient, the Company must begin addressing its 401(k) Plans continued contributions to climate change or risk negative effects to its reputation, its Plan returns, its employees futures, consumer retention, and employee recruitment and retention.

A recent Gallup poll found that 70 percent of U.S. workers said that a firm's environmental record is important to them and is a consideration when deciding whether to take a job with a company.26 Three-quarters of US employees are concerned about climate change, and more than half would consider resigning from a job if the companys values did not match their own, numbers that rise among younger workers.27 In the increasingly competitive employee retention and recruitment landscape, companies are identifying new ways to engage and retain top talent by appealing to the values and interest of the workforce. Interest in sustainable investing is reaching an all-time highs, with 80% of individual investors focused on sustainable investments.28 This number is even higher among millennials, with a staggering 99% interested in this type of investing.29 As Millennials make up the largest generation in the workforce,30 appealing to this demographic is important for companies who want to attract top talent.

For companies attempting to retain top talent, 40% of respondents in a 2022 Schroders study said that when an ESG investment option is added to a defined-contribution plan, it improves how they view their employer.31 The study also found that nearly three-in-four plan participants (74%) said they would or might increase their overall contribution rate if offered ESG options. An overwhelming majority of consumers, too, expect corporations to address their impacts on the climate and, especially among younger consumers, are prepared to enforce that expectation with their purchasing power.32 Addressing climate risk in the Companys retirement plan is therefore critical to protecting the companys reputation among both consumers and present and potential employees.

3. The Companys failure to clearly address the contribution to systemic climate risk from its retirement plans may violate its fiduciary obligation to manage those plans in the best interests of its beneficiaries.

_____________________________

20 https://www.bloomberg.com/news/features/2022-10-20/how-to-purge-fossil-fuel-investments-from-your-401-k-or-ira#xj4y7vzkg

21 https://comptroller.nyc.gov/newsroom/comptroller-stringer-and-trustees-announce-successful-3-billion-divestment-from-fossil-fuels/

22 https://www.reuters.com/business/sustainable-business/new-maine-law-marks-us-first-fossil-fuel-divestment-2021-06-17/

23 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/12/09/nyregion/new-york-pension-fossil-fuels.html

24 https://myucretirement.com/Resource/2312

25 https://ctpf.org/news/chicago-teachers-pension-fund-ctpf-commits-divestiture-fossil-fuel-holdings-andor-investing

26 https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/talent-acquisition/pages/climate-change-branding-can-lift-recruitment-and-retention.aspx

27 https://www.paulpolman.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/MC_Paul-Polman_Net-Positive-Employee-Barometer_Final_web.pdf

28 https://www.morganstanley.com/press-releases/sustainable-signals

29 https://www.morganstanley.com/press-releases/sustainable-signals

30 https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/04/11/millennials-largest-generation-us-labor-force/

31 https://www.schroders.com/en-us/us/institutional/clients/defined-contribution/schroders-us-retirement-survey/sustainability/

32 https://www.oliverwymanforum.com/climate-sustainability/2021/apr/consumers-want-companies-to-take-a-stand-on-climate.html

5

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

The Companys failure to properly manage climate risk by mitigating investments in high-carbon industries could constitute a failure to manage its Plan in the best interest of the Plans beneficiaries. In particular, as described above, carbon-intense investments create risk and may sacrifice long-term value. As New York Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli explained when announcing the states plan to enforce a carbon-neutrality mandate, investing for the low-carbon future is essential to protect the funds long-term value.33

Consideration of the differential impact of climate risk to beneficiaries is necessary, because climate risk is a material risk. According to a report from the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission, an independent federal agency, in September 2020: "Fiduciary duty requires the assessment of material risks and the management of these risks on behalf of stakeholders in keeping with their stated long-term goals, and climate risk is increasingly being recognized as one such risk (emphasis added).34 Ultimately, the Companys own operational climate goals make it perfectly clear that the Company considers climate risk to be material, and the law requires consideration of material risk. It is by failing to address climate risk to the Plans full range of beneficiaries that the Company exposes itself to potential legal liability, not by addressing this material risk. For example, in 2020, a lawsuit was filed in Australia by an employee who claimed his pension fund did not adequately disclose or assess the effect of climate change on its investments.35 Recently in the UK, ExxonMobil was fined for failing to disclose climate-related impacts and risks stemming from its pension plan.36 It may only be a matter of time until similar legal developments occur in the United States.

Recent changes to federal law confirm the necessity of addressing material climate risk in retirement plans. The Department of Labor recently finalized regulations under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, which empower plan fiduciaries to safeguard the savings of America's workers by clarifying that fiduciaries may consider climate change and other environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors when they make investment decisions.37 The rule additionally makes clear that a fiduciary's duty of prudence must be based on factors that the fiduciary reasonably determines are relevant to a risk and return analysis and that such factors may include the economic effects of climate change.38 In short, this new rule acknowledges that ESG factors may constitute material economic considerations, and therefore confirms the authority of plan administrators to consider climate change as a risk factor when selecting plan investment options, including default options.

_____________________________

33 https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/NYOSC/bulletins/2b0442d

34 https://www.cftc.gov/sites/default/files/2020-09/9-9-20%20Report%20of%20the%20Subcommittee%20on%20Climate-Related%20Market%20Risk%20-%20Managing%20Climate%20Risk%20in%

20the%20U.S.%20Financial%20System%20for%20posting.pdf

35 https://www.plansponsor.com/pension-fund-climate-change-lawsuit-settles/

36 https://www.edie.net/exxonmobil-pension-plan-fined-for-failure-to-disclose-climate-risks/?utm_campaign=P%26P%20%7C%20ESG%20Monitor%20Analytics&utm_medium=email&_hsmi=276597309&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9kN88Pbkwp57mHvfyuJzBBpiKuik1-WrETc7P35QksodM6QqxDPgyWKpnPCMy-LuKunu1u2OCd_05mCcNBmaki4QDk8w&utm_content=276597309&utm_source=hs_email

37 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fact-sheets/final-rule-on-prudence-and-loyalty-in-selecting-plan-investments-and-exercising-shareholder-rights

38 https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fact-sheets/final-rule-on-prudence-and-loyalty-in-selecting-plan-investments-and-exercising-shareholder-rights

6

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

Importantly, plan fiduciaries and beneficiaries need not choose between maximizing returns and managing climate risk. A metanalysis of evidence from more than 2,000 empirical studies concluded that 90% of all studies showed a non-negative relationship, indicating that the inclusion of ESG factors did not affect performance. In fact, most of the studies reported a positive relationship, indicating that ESG criteria improved market performance.39 Additionally, key findings from a recent Morgan Stanley study of nearly 11,000 mutual funds demonstrate that there is no financial tradeoff in the returns of sustainable funds and traditional funds. In the Morgan Stanley analysis, no consistent or statistically significant difference in total returns existed between ESG-focused and traditional mutual funds and ETFs. In fact, sustainable funds may offer lower market risksustainable funds experienced a 20% smaller downside deviation than traditional funds, a consistent and statistically significant finding.40 Accordingly, assessing and mitigating participants exposure to climate-related financial risk is directly related to participants goals of maximizing financial benefit and minimizing risk.

RESPONSE TO CAMPBELLS BOARD OF DIRECTORS STATEMENT IN OPPOSITION

The Boards statement in opposition to the Proposal is unpersuasive.

First, the Board argues that we have an internal management investment committee, which is solely responsible for the administrative duties of selecting and monitoring our 401(k) plans investment options . . . independent of any Board or shareholder oversight. While the Board has delegated its responsibility for managing the 401(k) Plan to a management-level committee, this fact does not absolve it of oversight responsibility, nor does it alter the Boards ability to issue the requested report. U nder federal law, the Board is charged with monitoring its appointed Plan fiduciaries to ensure that their performance has been in compliance with the terms of the plan and statutory standards, and satisfies the needs of the plan, including the needs of long-term beneficiaries of the Plan.41 Campbells 401(k) retirement plan investments are increasingly subject to systemic risk posed by climate change, including physical impacts to infrastructure and supply chains, decreased resource availability, and financial losses associated with stranded assets, transition costs, and inaccurate valuations. A fiduciarys f ailure to properly manage climate risk, by mitigating investments in high-carbon industries, constitutes a failure to manage in the best interest of the full range of the Plans beneficiaries. The Board is in a position to, and in fact should, exercise its oversight duties by actively assessing and reporting on the plan fiduciarys management of climate risk.

Second, the Board asserts in its statement of opposition that plan duciaries are required to consider and focus on relevant risk-return characteristics of an investment option and not subordinate the interests of participants and beneciaries (such as by sacricing investment returns or taking on additional investment risk) to promote objectives unrelated to the provision of benets under the plan. But as described above, climate risk is material risk. The Department of Labor has explicitly identified the economic effects of climate change as a legitimate subject of fiduciary attention when managing retirement plans. The prevalence of climate-risk mitigation strategies among institutional asset owners, including managers of defined contribution plans like the Companys 401(k) plan, demonstrates that there is no conflict between fiduciary duty and climate-risk mitigation. The Proposal simply requests that the Board report on the Company s management of this risk. It does not request that the Plan fiduciary subordinate the interests of participants or sacrifice investment returns.

_____________________________

39 https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2699610

40 https://www.morganstanley.com/content/dam/msdotcom/ideas/sustainable-investing-offers-financial-performance-lowered-risk/Sustainable_Reality_Analyzing_Risk_and_Returns_of_Sustainable_

Funds.pdf

41 29 C.F.R.  2509.75-8

7

2023 Proxy Memo Campbell Soup Co | Report on Assessing Systemic Climate Risk from Retirement Plan Options

Finally, the Board states, the internal management investment committee takes a holistic approach in their consideration of which investment options are offered through our 401(k) plan and takes into account a variety of potential risks, opportunities, and goals, including, but not limited to, those related to climate change and other ESG considerations." The terms variety of potential risks . . . related to climate change and other ESG considerations are incredibly broad. The Company provides no information as to what was assessed within these broad categories. If the Company has already undertaken a responsive, independent assessment, it should be willing to report to investors how it is protecting Plan beneficiaries from climate risk associated with its retirement plan options, as requested by this Proposal. Strong evidence indicates that such a disclosure will be viewed favorably by employees, potential employees, and consumers.

CONCLUSION

By automatically investing employees retirement savings in high-carbon and deforestation-intensive industries, Campbells 401(k) plan generates systemic climate risk, particularly to younger beneficiaries with longer investment time horizons. The responsible stewardship of employee retirement plans demands active consideration and management of this risk, as required by beneficiaries best interests. Vote Yes on this Shareholder Proposal #6.

--

For questions, please contact Grant Bradski, As You Sow, [email protected]

THE FOREGOING INFORMATION MAY BE DISSEMINATED TO SHAREHOLDERS VIA TELEPHONE, U.S. MAIL, E-MAIL, CERTAIN WEBSITES AND CERTAIN SOCIAL MEDIA VENUES, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS INVESTMENT ADVICE OR AS A SOLICITATION OF AUTHORITY TO VOTE YOUR PROXY. THE COST OF DISSEMINATING THE FOREGOING INFORMATION TO SHAREHOLDERS IS BEING BORNE ENTIRELY BY ONE OR MORE OF THE CO-FILERS. PROXY CARDS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED BY ANY CO-FILER. PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR PROXY TO ANY CO-FILER. TO VOTE YOUR PROXY, PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS ON YOUR PROXY CARD.

8
In this image taken from video released by the Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office, an unidentified gunman points a gun while entering Sparetime Recreation in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Federal and Maine authorities are still searching for the suspected shooter identified as Robert Card, who enlisted in the Army Reserve in December 2002 and was a petroleum supply specialist who had achieved the rank of sergeant first class. (Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office)

The suspect in two mass shootings in Maine that killed nearly 20 people late Wednesday is a member of the Army Reserve who enlisted more than 20 years ago, military officials said Thursday.

Maine authorities said at a news conference Thursday that 18 people were killed at two locations in Lewiston, the states second-largest city. More than a dozen others were injured, they said.

Federal and Maine authorities are still searching for the suspected shooter identified as Robert Card, who enlisted in the Army Reserve in December 2002 and was a petroleum supply specialist who had achieved the rank of sergeant first class, a spokesperson for the service said. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment at a training facility in Saco, Maine.

A petroleum supply specialist supervises and manages the reception, storage and shipping of petroleum-based products. Soldiers in the role also put fuel in vehicles and aircraft and make certain it is being transported and handled safely, according to the Army.

The Army said Card, 40, had no combat deployments and received some decorations, including the Army Achievement Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon.

He should be considered armed and dangerous. We believe he is someone who should not be approached, said Col. William Ross of the Maine State Police.

Ross said Card has been charged with several counts of murder, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. He added seven people died at the Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and eight people were killed at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Three victims died later at the hospital, the Maine State Police said Thursday.

Card was also a certified firearms instructor and had been dealing with mental health issues, according to The Associated Press. Card spent a couple of weeks in a mental health facility in the summer and said hed been hearing voices telling him to carry out a shooting at the Saco base, the AP reported.

The Army did not train [Robert] Card as a firearms instructor, nor did he serve in that capacity for the Army, an Army spokesperson said. We take matters such as this very seriously, and our primary concern is ensuring that all legal and appropriate actions are taken in accordance with our commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct among our soldiers and civilian personnel.

A U.S. official told the AP that commanders with the 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.

The official who spoke on condition of anonymity said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

This is a very difficult time for the community of Lewiston, Ross said. It was a rough night last night  but we are committed to bringing [Card] to justice.

Card was initially described by police as a person of interest in the shootings at the restaurant and bowling alley, but authorities clarified Thursday that hes now the chief suspect because hes been charged with murder.

Maine Department of Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said investigators are not yet certain about a motive for the shootings and dont have answers yet to questions about his mental health, and how he obtained a firearm.

They are questions we are looking into now, but not questions we can answer, he said.

Dr. John Alexander, chief medical officer Maine Central Health Care, said multiple injured victims are in critical condition and several remain in stable condition.

Authorities released security camera images of Card during the attacks, which show him carrying an assault-style rifle.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized fentanyl during a routine inspection. (U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Public Affairs)

The fentanyl crisis continues to rage across the United States. Families from Alaska to Maine have felt the impact of this crisis driven by a manufactured opioid shake them to their core. Unfortunately, this crisis has reached our service members. In the U.S. Army and Navy, our two largest branches, weve learned that fentanyl deaths are on the rise. As a veteran, I recognize firsthand that this is a dangerous threat to our national security and the Biden administration must be held accountable for its policies that have played a central role in the crisis.

A committee on which I serve in Congress, the House Committee on Homeland Security, just this week released a report detailing the tragic human costs of the border crisis playing out under Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas policies, including the lives lost to the fentanyl flowing across the border.

And make no mistake, we found the rise in fentanyl deaths is a direct result of the current administrations open borders policies, and our service members are paying the price. In 2021, fentanyl was the leading cause of overdose deaths among active-duty service members. According to the Department of Defense, 127 soldiers died of fentanyl poisoning between 2015 and 2022.

Unfortunately, we also lost 27 soldiers in 2021, a record number, to fentanyl. Fentanyl was responsible for more than half of all the Armys overdose deaths from 2017 to 2021. In the Navy, where I served for 14 years, young sailors are also losing their lives to this lethal substance. In 2020 alone, the Navy, launched five investigations into fentanyl-related deaths at Naval Station Great Lakes in Illinois. Since then, we have no information from the Navy regarding how many more have lost their lives in the past three years, despite the medias effort to obtain answers from the department. This synthetic drug is killing our service members. We must stop its flow into our military installations.

Recruitment is already suffering under the politicized leadership of this administration. One 2018 report documented how only 29% of young Americans between 17 and 24 are eligible to serve in the military. We certainly cannot afford to lose those service members who are able to wear the uniform to a preventable tragedy like fentanyl poisoning.

Chinas malign influence has not only been responsible for pervasive military intellectual property theft and gross abuse of human rights, but also the fentanyl epidemic. The Chinese Communist Party manufactures the majority of the precursor chemicals needed to create fentanyl and then exports them to Latin America. The cartels create the fentanyl and either force others to carry the drug into the United States on their behalf or create diversions at the border to sneak it across themselves. We know that over 50% of all fentanyl coming into the country is coming through Arizonas border. The Biden administrations refusal to secure our borders has resulted in American lives being lost. Our adversaries are attempting to undermine and weaken us, whether its our border security, our public health, or our military strength. We must secure our borders, hold the CCP accountable, and reinforce our military dominance on the world stage.

No parent should ever have to bury their own child. Sometimes, in the military, however, those are the immeasurable sacrifices our Gold Star Families are being forced to make. Now, a growing number of families are losing their children not on a distant battlefield, but to the opioid crisis in our own backyard. How many of our nations heroes are we going to lose to this drug before President Joe Biden and Alejandro Mayorkas address this national security crisis?

As a combat veteran, our obligation is to support those who serve and make the ultimate sacrifices for our country. Our service members swore an oath to protect our nation, but its up to us to protect them in return. Just like we wouldnt jump into another war because we value the lives of our soldiers, we cannot allow this crisis to continue. The DHS primary objective is to protect the homeland. Mayorkas has done the opposite. Our nation is now in a more vulnerable state because he has enabled our adversaries, including the cartels, to take advantage of the administrations open-borders policies. By allowing fentanyl to reach our service members, this administration has jeopardized our armed forces and national security. There will be accountability for these failures and for the needless deaths of our service members.

Rep. Morgan Luttrell, a Republican, represents Texas 8th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Maria Corina Machado attends a ceremony with the Opposition Primary Commission that recognizes her electoral win in the opposition-organized primary election to choose a presidential candidate in Caracas, Venezuela, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (Ariana Cubillos/AP)

CARACAS, Venezuela  Venezuelan government critic Maria Corina Machado was declared the winner Thursday of an opposition-organized primary to choose a presidential candidate, in polling last weekend that was denounced by the self-proclaimed socialist government as illegitimate.

The voting Sunday organized by the National Primary Commission drew more than 2.4 million voters in Venezuela and abroad and was aimed at choosing a candidate to run against President Nicolas Maduro next year.

But despite some assurances by Maduros government that the opposition would be allowed to choose a candidate, it has cast heavy doubt on any outcome of the weekend primary. Prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into primary organizers on charges including fraud and usurping authority, and on top of that the government has official banned Machado from running for office.

Still, the primary commission declared Machado, a former lawmaker, the winner Thursday in an event before opposition leaders and some of the other candidates she obliterated at the ballot box Sunday.

Results released by the commission showed participation of more than 2.4 million voters, of whom roughly 93% supported Machado.

Machado called the people who came out to vote the great heroes of this historic feat, and said that, We have to trust the people of Venezuela who have trusted us.

Voters defied expectations, even in neighborhoods once considered strongholds of the governing party. While they waited in line for hours either under the scorching sun or a downpour, many talked about their hopes for a government change that can pull the country out of a complex crisis that pushed millions into poverty and more than 7.7 million others to migrate.

Machado recounted anecdotes from Sundays grassroots effort, including when someone set up an ironing board as a table at one voting station and when voters used handwritten lists of candidates at another voting station when it ran out of ballots.

Jesus Maria Casal, head of the National Primary Commission, saluted the courage of thousands of Venezuelans who volunteered their homes, businesses and other spaces to host voting centers and others who risked a lot to help organize the contest.

The ship has arrived at its port, Casal said, while warning that there is plenty of work ahead. A path has been opened, demanding inclusion, preservation and expansion of the broad political and social movement that was generated around the primary, citizen participation and dialogue with everyone.

Maduros government last week agreed in principle to let the opposition choose its candidate for the 2024 presidential election, in negotiations with a faction of the Venezuelan opposition backed by the U.S. But the Venezuelan government has in the past bent the law, retaliated against opponents and breached agreements as it sees fit.

National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez has argued that the voter turnout claimed by the opposition commission was mathematically impossible given the number of available voting centers and the time it takes a person to cast a ballot.

Meanwhile, the countrys chief prosecutor said the investigation into primary organizers will also look into allegations that include identity theft and money laundering.
Chinese astronauts for the upcoming Shenzhou-17 mission, from left, Jiang Xinlin, Tang Hongbo, and Tang Shengjie wave upon arrival for a meeting with the press at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Andy Wong/AP)

TAIPEI, Taiwan  China announced plans on Wednesday to send a new telescope to probe deep into the universe as it prepared to launch the countrys next, three-member crew for its orbiting space station.

The telescope, dubbed Xuntian, will be installed by Chinas Tiangong space station and will co-orbit with it, according to a statement from Lin Xiqiang, spokesperson and deputy director general of the Chinese Manned Space Agency.

No timeframe was given for the installation. State broadcaster CCTV said the telescope would enable surveys and mapping of the sky.

China has researched the movement of stars and planets for thousands of years while in modern times, it has pushed to become a leader in space exploration and science.

The announcement came on the eve of the flight by three astronauts  Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin  who will replace a crew that has been on the station for six months.

The launch is expected for late morning on Thursday. Tang is a veteran who led a 2021 space mission for three months.

China has made majors advance in its burgeoning space power and says it plans to send a crewed mission to the moon by the end of the decade while also pursuing other ambitions in space.

The program largely comes in competition with the United States but also seeks to draw in support from nations in Europe, Southeast Asia, South America and elsewhere.

China built its own space station after it was excluded from the International Space Station, largely due to U.S. concerns over the control of the program by the Peoples Liberation Army, the military branch of the ruling Communist Party.

Chinas first manned space mission in 2003 made it the third country after the former Soviet Union and the U.S. to put a person into space using its own resources.

American spending, supply chains and capabilities are believed to give it a significant edge over China for the time being. China has broken out in some areas, however, bringing samples back from the lunar surface for the first time in decades and landing a rover on the less explored far side of the moon.

Meanwhile, the U.S. aims to put astronauts back on the lunar surface by the end of 2025 as part of a renewed commitment to crewed missions, aided by private sector players such as SpaceX and Blue Origin.

In addition to their lunar programs, the two countries have also separately landed rovers on Mars, and China plans to follow the U.S. in landing a spacecraft on an asteroid.

The new crew of the station will also need to conduct maintenance on its solar panels that have been hit by debris flying within the solar system, the official Xinhua News Agency reported.

A large amount of those particles were created by China in the destruction of one of its own satellites by a missile it fired in 2007, in what was seen as a sign of strength against its competitors in the U.S. and its allies.
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2023 - 14:07 | All, Japan

A man charged with fatally shooting a doctor and attacking medical staff who visited his home near Tokyo last year denied on Thursday that he had intended to kill them.

Hiroshi Watanabe, 67, said during his first hearing at Saitama District Court that he had "never intended at all" to murder anyone, claiming instead that he had aimed at the doctor's right knee but his shot went off target.

The attack, which took place on Jan. 27, 2022, resulted in an 11-hour standoff with police at his home in Fujimino, Saitama Prefecture. He was eventually arrested after the police stormed the building.

According to the indictment, Watanabe shot the doctor, Junichi Suzuki, 44, and a physiotherapist in his 40s, with a hunting gun and sprayed another medical worker with tear gas. The physiotherapist sustained severe injuries.

Prosecutors said in their opening statements that the victims were among seven people that Watanabe had summoned to his home on the night of Jan. 27, requesting they come to express their condolences over the death of his mother the previous day. The victims were working at a clinic responsible for providing home medical care for his mother.

Watanabe then shot at two of them after Suzuki refused to resuscitate his mother as he believed the medical staff were to blame his mother's death, whom he had nursed for a long time, the prosecutors said.

The suspect's defense team said that the defendant "did not intend to harm" the victims and that the shots fired were by mistake, or done as a warning. The team said he was under the influence of heavy amounts of sleeping pills and was also in shock following his mother's death.

After the arrest, the suspect was quoted by investigative sources as saying he wanted to take his own life, and had decided to kill not just himself but also the doctor and others working at the clinic.

Related coverage:

Hostage dead after 11-hour standoff near Tokyo
Newly elected Chinese Defense Minister Gen. Li Shangfu takes his oath during a session of Chinas National Peoples Congress (NPC) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on March 12, 2023. China has replaced Defense Minister Gen. Li, who has been out of public view for almost two months with little explanation, state media reported Tuesday, Oct. 24. (Andy Wong/AP)

TAIPEI, Taiwan  The removal of Chinas foreign and defense ministers appears to enforce leader Xi Jinpings demand for total obedience and the elimination of any potential rivals within the ruling Communist Party, analysts say.

State media this week confirmed that former defense minister Gen. Li Shangfu and former foreign minister Qin Gang were no longer serving in office, but offered no details.

The opacity of Chinas one-party authoritarian system creates huge speculation about why the officials left office and whether they will face legal censure. Both Li and Qin were appointed under Xis watch, indicating they must have undergone close scrutiny, but later faced doubt over their personal behavior or political alliances.

Its possible to see the reshuffle either as a manifestation of (Xis) weakness or a sign of his strength. I lean toward the insecurity side of the explanation, said June Teufel Dreyer, an expert on Chinese politics at the University of Miami in the U.S.

Xi is breaking with precedent by taking down his own powerful appointees, further turning the entire Communist Party into the Xi faction, said Steve Tsang, director of the China Institute at the University of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies.

Almost no information has been offered about the fate of Li and Qin, who was removed from office in July amid speculation of his having violated an unwritten code of ethics that is often used as cover for political infighting.

Li, who became defense minister during a Cabinet reshuffle in March and was dispatched to Moscow on a visit to shore up Chinas backing of Russia, hasnt been seen since giving a speech on Aug. 29.

There is no indication that the disappearances of Qin and Li signal a change in Chinas foreign or defense policies, which seek to form alliances in opposition to the liberal democratic world order led by the U.S. and its allies.

Lis ouster was likely based on multiple factors, including an anticorruption investigation linked to the equipment development department dating back to 2017, said Meia Nouwens, a China expert with the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

This doesnt look good. They are your close allies, youve only just appointed them and now clearly something has happened that isnt positive for them to take such drastic actions and remove them from their positions in what seems like quite a hasty way, Nouwens said.

At the same time, some could see the move as a sign of Xis strength, she said.

It shows weakness in his inner circle, but clearly strength in the sense that he ... can take these decisions quite decisively if he so chooses, she said.

Xi has a reputation for valuing loyalty above all and has relentlessly attacked corruption in public and private, sometimes in what has been seen as a way of eliminating political rivals and shoring up his political position amid a deteriorating economy and rising tensions with U.S. over trade, technology and Taiwan.

Li is under U.S. sanctions related to his oversight of weapons purchases from Russia that bar him from entering the country. China has since cut off contact with the U.S. military, mainly in protest over U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, and strongly implied that Washington must lift the measures against Li that Beijing refuses to publicly recognize.

State broadcaster CCTV this week also announced the appointment of new finance minister and science and technology ministers.

Chinas political and legal systems remain opaque, fueling lively discussion of possible corruption, personal foibles or fallings-out with other powerful figures leading to the downfall of top officials.

Chinas ruling party is also struggling to revive an economy that has been severely impacted by draconian zero COVID measures, an aging population, high unemployment among college graduates and a movement of many of its wealthiest and best educated to more liberal societies abroad.

With his ideology, known as Xi Jinping Thought, enshrined in the party constitution and with the abolishment of presidential term limits, Xi has structured the system so that he may stay in power for the rest of his life.

The 70-year-old also heads the party and state committees overseeing the Peoples Liberation Army, the worlds largest standing military with more than 2 million personnel on active duty.

Associated Press writer David Rising contributed to this report from Bangkok.
A drogue parachute helps a B-52H Stratofortress slow down upon landing at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 17, 2023. (Zachary Wright/U.S. Air Force)

The Air Force on Guam recently completed a $2.4 million restoration for a parachute drying tower thats having a significant impact on bomber task force missions.

B-52H Stratofortress bombers deploy drogue parachutes  commonly called drag chutes  upon landing to minimize wear and tear on braking systems. But the chutes often pick up rocks and get wet due to Guams humid and rainy environment, according to 1st Lt. Ariana Wilkinson, a spokeswoman for the 36th Wing at Andersen Air Force Base.

Before the 90-foot, 200-pound chutes can be repacked and reused, airmen must remove the rocks and dry them with high-powered fans  previously a two-day process  she told Stars and Stripes in a recent email.

Restoration of Andersens seven-story drying tower  out of commission for 11 years after the Air Force deemed it unfit for use  adds an industrial furnace to the process. Drying the chutes now takes between 12 and 18 hours, Wilkinson said, adding that turnaround time has effectively quadrupled.

The B-52 is the only aircraft that uses drag chutes at Andersen, but the tower is capable of drying other parachutes as well.

The reopening of it was another big win for the wing, Air Force Lt. Col. Edwin Pratt, commander of the 36th Operations Support Squadron, said in an Oct. 4 news release about the upgrades.

A B-52H Stratofortress deploys its drogue chute as it lands at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, July 11, 2023. (Evan Lichtenhan/U.S. Air Force)

The Air Force has routinely sent B-52 and B-1 bombers to Guam from North Dakota and Louisiana since the task force missions began in 2018. The deployments typically last between two and six weeks.

The missions demonstrate the credibility of U.S. forces to address a global security environment that is more diverse and uncertain than at any other time in recent history, Pacific Air Forces said last week in a statement announcing the latest rotation.

Our Bomber Task Force units out of Minot Air Force Base and Barksdale Air Force Base no longer need to be concerned that a pre-mature deployment of their parachute could have the potential of jeopardizing the next mission, Pratt said.

The project is the result of a multi-year collaborative effort with the 36th Operations Support Squadron, Naval Facilities Engineering Systems and two contracting companies, Wilkinson added.

An undisclosed number of B-52s and airmen from Barksdales 2nd Bomb Wing arrived at Andersen on Oct. 20 to actively train during operations and exercises while integrating alongside Allies and partners throughout the region, the PACAF statement said.

That task force mission kicked off two days before a Barksdale-based B-52 participated in an unprecedented exercise with South Korea and Japan on Sunday.

The bomber joined two F-16 Fighting Falcons out of Osan Air Base, South Korea; two South Korean F-15K Slam Eagles; and two Japanese F-2s for an aerial drill that demonstrated their security cooperation and solidarity, the South Korean air force said in a news release that day.

Days earlier, the bomber became the first B-52 to touch down on the Korean Peninsula in at least 30 years.
This screenshot of a video released by U.S. Indo-Pacific Command shows a Chinese J-11 fighter jet nearing a U.S. Air Force B-52 on Oct. 24, 2023, in what the command described as an unsafe intercept. (U.S. Indo-Pacific Command)

A Chinese fighter jet flew within 10 feet of a U.S. bomber over the South China Sea on Tuesday, an unsafe and unprofessional maneuver made all the riskier because it happened at night, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a news release Thursday.

The pilot of the J-11 fighter executed the unsafe intercept with a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress that was conducting routine operations in international airspace over the South China Sea, according to the release.

During the night time intercept, the [Chinese] pilot flew in an unsafe and unprofessional manner, demonstrated poor airmanship by closing with uncontrolled excessive speed, flying below, in front of, and within 10 feet of the B-52, putting both aircraft in danger of collision, the release said.

In such darkness and low visibility, it is possible the Chinese pilot could not assess how near his aircraft was to the bomber, according to the release.

We are concerned this pilot was unaware of how close he came to causing a collision, INDOPACOM said.

The flight route taken by the B-52 was not included in the release, but an undisclosed number of Stratofortresses deployed within the past week to Guam for a routine bomber task force mission.

Tuesdays intercept was conducted in a manner contrary to international air safety rules and norms, the release said. Military aircraft, when intentionally approaching another, shall operate with professional airmanship and give due regard for the safety of other aircraft.

The near-miss is the latest in a sharp increase in risky behavior by Chinese pilots in the South China Sea, over which Beijing maintains broad claims of sovereignty that are disputed by neighboring nations.

On Oct. 17, the Pentagon released declassified images and videos depicting some of the roughly 180 incidents involving reckless maneuvers by Chinese pilots over the past two years.

All [this is to try] to interfere in the ability of U.S. forces to operate safely in places where we and every country in the world have every right to be under international law, Ely Ratner, the Pentagons assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs, told reporters.

In response to the Pentagons disclosures, Chinas Ministry of National Defense on Wednesday released video purporting to show the U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson diverting its course to cross in front of a Chinese warship in the South China Sea on Aug. 19.

This video proves that it is the US side that is making provocations, taking risks and muddling the water, Senior Col. Wu Qian, spokesperson for the defense ministry, said at a news conference in Beijing.

We have much similar video evidence, but I wont show them today because of time constraints, he said.

INDOPACOM said in its release that the U.S. will continue to fly, sail, and operate  safely and responsibly  wherever international laws allow.

The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Joint Force remains dedicated to a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and we expect all countries in the Indo-Pacific to operate in international airspace safely and in accordance with international law, the release said.
An SUV is parked in Pocheon city, South Korea, near Rodriguez Live Fire Complex, Friday, Oct. 26, 2023. The sign reads "vehicle damaged by the bullet." (Stars and Stripes)

A car driven by a South Korean man was hit by a stray bullet this week in Pocheon city, not far from a live-fire range where U.S. and South Korean troops often train, according to police.

An unidentified man around 40 years old was driving a SUV on a four-lane road when his windshield was struck by a bullet at 6:30 a.m. Tuesday, a Pocheon Police Station officer told Stars and Stripes by phone Thursday.

The driver was not injured, according to the officer. South Korean officials regularly speak to the media on a customary condition of anonymity.

The incident happened less than a mile from the Rodriguez Live Fire Complex, roughly 16 miles from the Demilitarized Zone.

A different Pocheon officer said they suspect the bullet was 5.56 mm in size, the standard round used in rifles issued by the U.S. and South Korean militaries.

The officers said an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

The bullet struck the passenger side of the SUVs windshield, beneath the wiper, according to photos of the vehicle released by the Pocheon City Council on Friday.

South Korean army units stationed in Pocheon were not conducting ive-fire training when the incident occurred, a Fifth Corps spokesperson said by phone Friday.

Eighth Armys public affairs director, Lt. Col. Juan Martinez, said the command is fully cooperating with the police investigation.

[Eighth Army] is conducting a review to determine if there were any violations to range policies and procedures, he wrote in an emailed statement Friday. One of our top priorities is the safety and well-being of [South Koreas] citizens.

The city council in a news release Thursday described the incident as an accident but urged the U.S. and South Korean militaries to halt firing live rounds and relocate the training center elsewhere to ensure the fundamental and permanent safety of its residents.

Shooting drills are no longer acceptable when the safety of the people is completely ignored, with no proper safety measures in place, the release said.
South Korean police guard the entrance to an alleyway where some of the 159 victims were killed after a crowd of people were crushed during Halloween festivities in Itaewon, South Korea, Oct. 29, 2022. (David Choi/Stars and Stripes)

SEOUL, South Korea  The U.S. military is ordering troops and other personnel to stay away from a popular nightlife district in the capital where 159 people died in a crowd stampede last Halloween season.

All [U.S. Forces Korea] Servicemembers, families, civilians, and contractors should avoid the Itaewon area on Saturday, said an alert issued Thursday by the Defense Departments mass warning and notification system.

The Korean National Police Agency expects 100,000 to 150,000 people to gather in Itaewon to celebrate Halloween this weekend, along with several scheduled protests that include anti-U.S. groups, according to the message.

USFK personnel should avoid the Itaewon area and refrain from all political activity, the order said.

Up to 2,000 police officers are expected in the area to control crowds and prevent a second occurrence of last years tragic loss of life, according to the alert.

Itaewon  a stones throw from the U.S. Armys Yongsan Garrison  is among Seouls most popular neighborhoods and is known for its bars, nightclubs and foreign restaurants.

As many as 100,000 people gathered there to celebrate Halloween on Oct. 29, 2022. The crowd became densely packed and in one narrow, sloping alley, people surged into a suffocating mass from which escape for many became impossible.

The death toll reached 159, with dozens of injuries, according to the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters.

Three 2nd Infantry Division soldiers were recognized by their command for helping people out of the crowd, according to multiple news reports. Military police stationed at Yongsan also sprang into action and provided first aid.

The victims, mostly in their 20s, included 26 foreigners, among them two American university students. USFK said none of its 28,500 uniformed personnel or DOD employees were among the casualties.

South Koreas National Fire Agency conducted safety inspections this week and will implement crowd dispersal measures between Friday and Wednesday in Itaewon, Hongdae and Myeongdong, according to a press release Thursday.

The release advised revelers to refrain from wearing police or firefighter uniforms as Halloween costumes so emergency responders can conduct their duties quickly at disaster sites.

The Ministry of Interior and Safety said it will use crowd-control equipment that tracks and predicts the density of a gathering based on cellphone usage in an area.
The guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson, shown here in December 2020. (Markus Castaneda/U.S. Navy)

(Tribune News Service)  Chinas military released video footage that it said shows provocative actions by a U.S. warship in the South China Sea, escalating a dispute between the nations over maneuvers by their navies in the disputed body of water.

The clip said that on Aug. 19, the USS Ralph Johnson conducted close-in harassment against a Peoples Liberation Army Navy task group under routine training in the South China Sea. It said the U.S. destroyer carried out several provocative actions such as making a sharp turn and sudden acceleration or deceleration, crossing the bow of the PLANS Guilin, and dangerously approaching the PLA Navy ships, coming within 670 meters, or roughly 730 yards.

Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian said at a regular press briefing Thursday that the video shows that the U.S. side is the real provoker, risk-taker and disrupter. The U.S. warships actions endanger Chinas national security, Wu said, adding that his nation would take all necessary measures to resolutely safeguard national sovereignty.

The U.S. Pacific Fleet didnt immediately respond to a request for comments outside of working hours.

It is rare for the Chinese military to release footage of encounters with the U.S. military, and the move comes after the Pentagon said last week that Chinas warplanes have sharply increased coercive and risky behavior in the South China Sea.

By releasing the video of the warship encounters, China appears to be trying to show that it is behaving responsibly in the region while the troublemaker is the U.S., though Washington insists its military activities are conducted in international airspace and waters. The video also said the U.S. maneuvers violated agreements between the two nations on the behavior of ship captains at sea.

The U.S. military also recently published images and videos highlighting the behavior of Chinese fighter pilots toward their American counterparts in international airspace. The incidents above the East and South China Seas show Peoples Liberation Army pilots coming within some 20 feet of U.S. aircraft, in some instances cutting in front of them.

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea as its own, and bristles at military activity conducted by the U.S. and its partners in the region. Earlier this month, a Canadian general criticized the Chinese air force over an incident off the coast of the Asian nation that apparently saw a fighter jet cut off a patrol plane and drop flares in its path.

The Philippines has also been stepping up efforts to show what it said are aggressive acts by Chinese ships in the South China Sea. It has released several videos and images of at least eight incidents involving Chinese vessels so far this year, often via social media.

On Wednesday, President Joe Biden warned China that the U.S. would be forced to intervene if Beijing attacks Philippine vessels in the South China Sea. A China Coast Guard vessel collided with a Philippines-contracted resupply boat on Sunday, and a Chinese maritime militia boat ran into a Philippine coast guard ship hours later.

The situation is likely to come up when Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits the U.S. for meetings with top officials. Wang is set to meet Biden on Friday at the White House, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Hell also meet Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.

With assistance from Jing Li.

2023 Bloomberg L.P.

Visit bloomberg.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud takes the Medical Readiness Command, Europes guidon from Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, the Surgeon General of the Army and commander of U.S. Army Medical Command, at a ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Oct. 26, 2023. At right is the outgoing commander Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray, in the center is Command Sgt. Maj. Jesus Gonzalez. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany  A new leader took charge Thursday of the U.S. Armys medical readiness and patient care in Europe and Africa, an assignment that follows a big change in how military health care records are managed overseas.

Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud took command of Medical Readiness Command, Europe, and its 6,000 medical personnel, during a ceremony at the Armys base in Sembach. He also takes over as command surgeon for U.S. Army Europe and Africa. Giraud arrives from Joint Base San Antonio, where he was deputy commanding general of operations at U.S. Army Medical Command.

Stepping aside for Giraud after 16 months on the job is Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray, who is returning to Texas to lead the Army Medical Center of Excellence at Fort Sam Houston. Before coming to Germany, Murray was the commander of Brooke Army Medical Center, Texas.

Murray led the Armys only overseas-based medical readiness command through part of the pandemic, Russias ongoing war in Ukraine and the switch to MHS Genesis, which aims to provide a single, digital medical record for service members, veterans and their families.

The Medical Readiness Command, Europe color guard stands in formation at the units change of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Oct. 26, 2023. Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud took the reins from Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray at the ceremony. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes) Sgt. 1st Class Chasidy Tenison sings the German and American national anthems at the Medical Readiness Command, Europe change of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Oct. 26, 2023, where Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud took over from Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes) Lt. Gen. R. Scott Dingle, Surgeon General of the Army and head of U.S. Army Medical Command speaks at the Medical Readiness Command, Europe change of command ceremony at Sembach, Germany, Oct. 26, 2023. Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud took over from Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes) Gen. Darryl Williams, left, commander of U.S. Army Europe and Africa, shakes hands with Brig. Gen. Roger Giraud, the new commander of Medical Readiness Command, Europe. Giraud took the unit's reins from Brig. Gen. Clinton Murray at the Oct. 26, 2023 ceremony in Sembach, Germany. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes) Soldiers sing the Army Song at the conclusion of the Medical Readiness Command, Europes change of command ceremony in Sembach, Germany, Oct. 26, 2023. (Michael Abrams/Stars and Stripes)

All Defense Department hospitals and clinics in Europe switched to Genesis late last month, which was probably the most emotional event of his time in command, Murray said, not only for the health care providers and the leaders but clearly for the family members and the beneficiaries.

The rollout has resulted in fewer available routine appointments and increased wait times for care, a change compounded in some locations by the scarcity of off-base health care. The delays and shortages will end as workers learn the system over the next few months, military medical officials have said.

Army health care personnel did amazing in launching the new system, Murray said.

Giraud said he looks forward to building on the commands success at an important and critical time in our nations history.

svan.jennifer@stripes.com @stripesktown
Russian recruits take a train at a railway station in Prudboi, Volgograd region of Russia, Sept. 29, 2022. (AP)

RIGA, Latvia  Russia has freed up to 100,000 prison inmates and sent them to fight in Ukraine, according to government statistics and rights advocates  a far greater number than was previously known.

The sharp drop in the number of inmates is evidence that the Defense Ministry continued to aggressively recruit convicted criminals even after blocking access to prisoners by the Wagner mercenary group, which pioneered the campaign to trade clemency for military service.

The Russian prison population, estimated at roughly 420,000 before the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, plummeted to a historic low of about 266,000, according to Deputy Justice Minister Vsevolod Vukolov, who disclosed the figure during a panel discussion earlier this month.

Russian forces are now heavily reliant on prisoners plucked from colonies with the promise of pardons, a practice initiated by the late Wagner boss Yevgeniy Prigozhin, who began recruiting convicts to fight in Ukraine a year ago and amassed a 50,000-strong force.

The convicts proved crucial to Wagners long, bloody and ultimately successful campaign to seize the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut. In August, three months after claiming control of the city, Prigozhin died in a suspicious airplane explosion.

At the peak of Prigozhins recruitment campaign last year, he helicoptered from one Russian penal colony to another urging prisoners to atone for their crimes with blood and offering to make them free men. Around that time, Russias Federal Penitentiary Service, or FSIN, stopped publishing its typically detailed statistics, shortly after data showed that the male prison population in Russia had declined by 23,000 people in just two months.

If 10 years ago our contingent in prisons reached almost 700,000 people, now we have about 266,000 people in correctional colonies, Vukolov said early this month, making a rare revelation at a panel on social reintegration of prisoners in present-day conditions.

Vukolovs disclosure stunned Russians who monitor the countrys prison systems.

This is a shocking number, said Olga Romanova, the director of the Russia Behind Bars human rights organization. There were 420,000 prisoners at the beginning of the war, and we know that Prigozhin took about 50,000.

She added, Usually, the influx of newly incarcerated people is roughly similar, so we should be seeing a figure closer to 400,000 now.

This means that the Defense Ministry has likely recruited around 100,000 people for the war there, Romanova said, calculating the math aloud. Starting Feb. 1, the Defense Ministry came to all prisons, and if Prigozhin toured colonies one by one, they recruit in them everywhere at once, practically every day.

There was a feeling that they were exceeding Wagners rate, but not by much. Now, it turns out that they far exceed it, she added.

Mediazona, a Russian-language news outlet that covers the Russian justice system, calculated that in 2023 Russias prison population  those already convicted and serving time in a colony  declined by 54,000, but that it was difficult to determine how many were sent to the front lines without month-by-month data.

Romanovas estimate also included people in pretrial detention centers where her group has documented cases of defendants being recruited to go to war even before their cases reach trial.

The former convicts provided Wagner with a near-constant influx of reinforcements. Prigozhin promised that they would receive presidential pardons after six months of service if they survived the hostilities. Once sent to the front, some were threatened with death if they retreated or refused to obey orders. Many were thrown into battle, to near certain death, in waves.

The prison recruitment strategy was then co-opted by the Russian Defense Ministry, which recognized it as an effective way to restore the depleted ranks in the regular military without triggering another mobilization.

In September 2022, President Vladimir Putin ordered a partial mobilization, which prompted hundreds of thousands of men to flee the country to avoid being sent to fight.

As part of a bitter feud with Prigozhin, the Defense Ministry eventually barred Wagner from prison recruitment as military officials worked to limit the mercenary leaders involvement in the war following his public rants accusing the countrys top brass of botching the invasion.

By February, Wagner had lost access to prison colonies.

They stopped giving us prisoners out of jealousy, Prigozhin said in an interview in May with a pro-war military blogger. They fought well, the guys from a group of 12,000 people grew to 50,000, but the Russian army was not very well prepared for this situation.

Prigozhin told the blogger that he had planned to recruit four times more fighters from prisons to reach the minimal goals of the war. That statement caused a backlash among Defense Ministry officials.

Prigozhins conflict with Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu eventually led to a short-lived mutiny in late June, in which a convoy of Wagner fighters seized a headquarters in Rostov-on-Don and then rolled toward Moscow. The mutiny was ended following a deal that called for Wagner to relocate to Belarus.

Prigozhins death in August raised suspicions that the Kremlin had him killed. Putin, however, announced that an investigation found evidence that grenades had exploded on board Prigozhins plane  a suggestion that the Wagner leader was killed by the careless handling of weapons.

Whatever the cause of his death, many of Prigozhins ideas live on, including the use of private armies to supplement regular forces to conceal real losses and reduce social payments, and sending an expendable force of convicts on suicide missions to preserve more elite units.

After the Kremlin dismantled Prigozhins empire, private military company Redut  believed to be sponsored by Russian oligarchs and fully controlled by the Defense Ministry  took the reins and became one of the largest proxy groups fighting in Ukraine.

Redut absorbed Wagner fighters willing to accept Putins deal, offering them a chance to continue fighting after the mutiny by joining the regular military. Redut also began recruiting prisoners with the Defense Ministrys approval.

Romanova estimated that Redut has recruited at least 1,000 convicts. Online chat groups for relatives of prisoners fighting in Ukraine have branched out from discussions about conditions at Wagner to deals offered by Redut.

In a report published by pro-Kremlin television channel RT, a trainer with one of Reduts units said that most of his trainees were former convicts.

This is the largest contingent we have, and recent Ukrainian attempts at offensives showed that these people can dutifully perform their tasks, the trainer, who was not identified, said in the clip.

While some of Prigozhins recruits received pardons and walked free after he withdrew Wagner forces from Bakhmut, most convicts serving now are unlikely to be so lucky, Romanova added.

According to contracts reviewed by her organization, Russia Behind Bars, these prisoners essentially were given a one-way ticket to the front line with 18-month contracts with no rotation or leave. Those who refuse to fight may end up in one of the detention centers in Donetsk or Luhansk regions or in unofficial basements set up to intimidate potential deserters.

Some convicts get pressed into the so-called Storm-Z squads, a wordplay on a term for assault troops and the letter Z, which the Kremlin turned into a symbol of its invasion. Storm-Z units are effectively punishment battalions made up of prisoners and regular soldiers who violated disciplinary rules.

If a soldier committed some offense, as punishment they are being sent into Storm-Z, so thats why it is considered a punishment battalion, but officially, it doesnt have such a status, Romanova said. And this battalion will be thrown into some brutal assault mission, its a meat grinder type of unit.

Independent Russian news outlet Astra last week published complaints from family members of several Storm-Z fighters who said they were forced to renew contracts with the Defense Ministry or be thrown into basements in Zaitsevo and Rassypnoe villages on the border between occupied areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

Despite the significant drop in Russias prison population, the penitentiary service is expanding, and its budget is expected to grow by one-third, according to the draft of Russias federal budget for 2024-2026. Romanova noted that the funding will go toward expanding an already ambitious plan to build dozens more detention centers and prison colonies in occupied territories of Ukraine.

There are simply not enough places of detention, Romanova said.
People attend the funeral procession of Hezbollah fighter Bilal Nemr Rmeiti, who was killed by Israeli shelling, during his funeral procession in Majadel village, south Lebanon, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023. (Hassan Ammar/AP)

BEIRUT  Lebanons caretaker prime minister Tuesday visited troops deployed near the border with Israel and U.N. peacekeepers, as Saudi Arabia evacuated the families of diplomatic staff because of ongoing clashes between Hezbollah militants and Israeli troops.

The Saudi move comes amid rising tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border, where Hezbollah members have been exchanging fire with Israeli troops daily for two weeks.

There was no official announcement from Saudi authorities, but the move came days after Saudi Arabia urged its citizens to leave Lebanon immediately. Officials who spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations said the Saudi ambassador to Lebanon, Waleed Bukhari, the military attache and other staff members were not with the 65 people leaving Lebanon on Tuesday afternoon.

The visit by Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to the tense southern province was his first since clashes erupted along the border following a surprise attack by the Palestinian group Hamas on Israel on Oct. 7. It also came two days after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited troops along the border on Sunday.

Mikati and international governments have been scrambling to prevent the Israel-Hamas war from expanding to Lebanon, where the powerful Hezbollah group warned Israel about a ground incursion into the blockaded Gaza Strip.

Hezbollah deputy leader Sheikh Naim Kassem said the group is in the heart of the war to defend Gaza and confront the occupation.

Its finger is on the trigger to whatever extent it deems necessary for the confrontation, Kassem tweeted.

Clashes between Hezbollah and the Israeli military thus far have been mostly limited to several towns along the border.

Journalists from Hezbollahs Al-Manar television reported that an Israeli helicopter attack struck an empty position near the border town of Houla, after a missile fired from Lebanon hit an Israeli military position. The Israeli military said the anti-missile attack hit a position in Manara with no casualties. They added that they struck a group of militants in Mount Dov, a disputed territory known as Shebaa Farms in Lebanon, where the borders of Lebanon, Syria and Israel meet.

Meanwhile, Lebanons top Druze political leader Walid Jumblatt, said that he along with Mikati and Hezbollah ally Nabih Berri, who is Lebanons parliamentary speaker, are in agreement that the war shouldnt further expand into the tiny Mediterranean country. Jumblatt said that he held calls with top Hezbollah security officials on the matter.

But the matter is not up to Hezbollah alone ... Israel could have hostile intentions, Jumblatt said after meeting with Druze religious officials and clergymen in Beirut. We must expect the worst.

Israel and Hezbollah fought a monthlong war in 2006 that ended in a stalemate. Israel sees Iran-backed Hezbollah as its most serious threat, estimating it has around 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Israel on Tuesday, where he reaffirmed calls to prevent the war from expanding into Lebanon and the wider Arab world, and called for a decisive political process with the Palestinians for a viable peace.

Macron warned Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups against opening a new front in the ongoing war, and that Paris had expressed those concerns in direct communication with Hezbollah.

To do so would be to open the door to a regional inferno from which everyone would come out the loser, he said.

Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed to this report.
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2023 - 23:00 | All, Japan, World

The following is the latest list of selected news summaries by Kyodo News.

----------

Japan PM says 40,000 yen tax cut to come in June to support economy

TOKYO - Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said Friday that a 40,000 yen ($266) tax cut per person will come next June, expressing hope that it will support Japanese households struggling to cope with waves of price hikes and slow wage growth.

For low-income earners, exempt from tax payments and particularly hard hit by inflation, the government will make cash handouts of 70,000 yen per household, Kishida said. The payouts will likely begin earlier than the tax cut, possibly by year-end.

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South Korea top court affirms Japan temple owner of stolen Buddha statue

SEOUL - South Korea's Supreme Court on Thursday rejected an appeal by a South Korean temple, affirming a high court ruling that a Japanese temple is the rightful owner of a 14th-century Buddha statue stolen from the temple on an island in southwestern Japan in 2012.

The statue, absconded by South Korean thieves, has been recovered by local authorities. The South Korean temple asserted that the statue was looted from it by Japanese pirates centuries ago and sought its handover from the South Korean government.

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Toyota fully resumes domestic output following explosion at supplier

NAGOYA - Toyota Motor Corp. on Thursday fully resumed output in Japan with the remaining production line at a plant in Gifu Prefecture back in operation, ending 10 days of disruption caused by an explosion at a parts supplier's factory.

The world's largest automaker by volume has been gradually restarting operations as parts supply recovers, after halting 13 production lines at eight factories at one point.

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2 hospitalized after radioactive liquid exposure at Fukushima plant

TOKYO - Two men have been hospitalized after they were exposed to radioactive liquid while cleaning a water filtration facility at the wrecked Fukushima nuclear plant, the plant's operator said Thursday.

The two workers, one in his 20s and the other in his 40s, are employees of a partner firm of Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc. and have been admitted to the Fukushima Medical University's hospital to be decontaminated and put under observation, though they did not sustain any visible injuries or complain of ill health.

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China successfully launches manned rocket to space station

BEIJING - China said Thursday it has successfully launched a rocket carrying three astronauts to its space station to replace three others who have been there since May, according to state-run media.

Carrying the Shenzhou-17 spacecraft, the Long March-2F rocket lifted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in China's northwest province of Gansu, the China Manned Space Agency said.

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Hay fever-fighting rice to be part of Japan's economic stimulus

TOKYO - Japan is set to financially support the development of a genetically modified rice that can alleviate hay fever symptoms when consumed as part of economic stimulus measures being drawn up, government sources said Thursday.

The government aims to commence clinical trials of the transgenic rice, which will be powdered and processed into tablets or capsules, in fiscal 2024, with plans to commercialize the drug within the next 10 years, the sources said.

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Japan parliamentary vice minister resigns over scandal

TOKYO - A Japanese ruling party lawmaker resigned Thursday as parliamentary vice minister following a media report about his inappropriate relationship with a woman, a move that could deal a further blow to the government of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida as it struggles with low support ratings.

The resignation of House of Councillors lawmaker Taro Yamada was approved by the government the day after Bunshun Online reported he had an extramarital affair. He belongs to the Liberal Democratic Party headed by Kishida.

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3 men arrested in Japan for smuggling 113 kg of illegal drugs

TOYAMA, Japan - A Ukrainian and two Russian men have been arrested on suspicion of smuggling around 113 kilograms of illegal stimulants, with a street value of around 7 billion yen ($47 million), concealed in air cargo from Mexico to Japan, police said Thursday.

It is the largest amount of stimulants seized by Toyama prefectural police in central Japan on one occasion since comparable data became available in 2002, they said.

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Video: Ghibli Park's new "Mononoke" area
A woman, with a photograph of a child who was abducted during the unprecedented Hamas attack on Israel, hands out yellow ribbons to passing drivers in central Tel Aviv, Israel, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Francisco Seco/AP)

JERUSALEM  More than two weeks after Hamas militants rampaged through a string of sleepy farming towns, many Israelis are furious at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus government, not just for failing to prevent the attack, but for failing to come to their aid afterward.

While the military is launching unrelenting airstrikes in Gaza that have killed thousands of Palestinians, and hundreds of thousands of Israeli troops are massing for a possible ground offensive, government infighting and lack of help for those in need have left traumatized survivors to mourn on their own and volunteers  many of whom spent the past year protesting the government  to take on recovery efforts.

It has to be clear. The government is completely incompetent, said Ruvi Dar, a clinical psychologist and Tel Aviv University professor who has been counseling survivors evacuated from their homes.

Any support that the refugees are getting right now is completely grassroots. Absolutely nothing by the state, he said, adding that even volunteers hotel rooms are paid for by nonprofit groups.

The backdrop to the outcry is the long-running and contentious plan by Netanyahu and his far-right government to sharply curtail the power of the nations judiciary, which sparked months of protests and consumed the Cabinet and the nation.

Many believe the government neglected basic functions while it focused its efforts on attacking the Supreme Court, which it accused of being liberal and interventionist.

Critics have accused Netanyahu of recklessly ignoring a raft of issues. The police force is understaffed, and the military was caught off guard on Israels southern flank as forces were more heavily stationed in the occupied West Bank, home to half a million settlers. The government did little to address the spiraling cost of living and rampant killings in Israels own Arab communities, while ultra-Orthodox Jewish and pro-settlement coalition partners have received billions of dollars for pet projects.

Government offices havent been functioning for a year now, so obviously they cant cope with emergency situations. They wasted a whole year on nonsense, Arnon Bar David, head of Israels Histadrut trade union, told Army Radio.

The government faced public wrath almost immediately after being caught by surprise by the Oct. 7 Hamas attack that killed more than 1,400 people, the vast majority civilians. It took hours for the stunned military to respond and send troops to counter-attack, a chaotic response that foreshadowed the governments dysfunction.

Some government ministers have been blocked by residents from visiting attacked communities and others have been screamed at while visiting the wounded at hospitals.

Standing just feet from Economy Minister Nir Barkat, Ophir Shais eulogy for his brother, Yaron, turned into a furious attack on the government.

You abandoned the soldiers of the IDF. You abandoned the people who live along the Gaza border. You abandoned the state of Israel. You abandoned my beloved brother. I expect you all to take responsibility and resign immediately after the war ends, he said.

I wont forget, and I wont forgive. I promise to hunt you down forever.

Even after the initial massacre, the government was slow to respond and appeared in disarray. Israels public diplomacy minister, meant to serve as a spokesperson to the international media, quit in a huff after her responsibilities were turned over to other ministries.

Polls show Netanyahus already plunging popularity has collapsed. While other members of the government and the heads of the army and the Shin Bet security service have apologized and taken responsibility for the attack, Netanyahu said nothing of the sort for weeks. Only Wednesday night, 18 days after the attack, did he come close to accepting some responsibility.

This failure will be investigated thoroughly. Everyone will need to provide answers, myself included, but all of this will happen only after the war, he said in a brief nationwide address.

Netanyahu also boasted of government assistance for victims, including mass evacuations from hard-hit border communities. We will not leave anyone behind, he said.

But Netanyahu has not publicly visited the wounded in hospitals, consoled traumatized evacuated families or gone to a funeral for any of those killed. He has made several public statements, mainly as he greeted world leaders offering support, and he has visited soldiers in the field. But he has not taken questions from Israels famously combative media.

Asked for comment, a senior Israeli official said the prime minister met with families and is fully focused on winning the war. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to talk to the media.

With over 200 people being held captive by Hamas militants in Gaza, he did not meet with any of their families until more than a week after the attack  two days after U.S. President Joe Biden spoke to families of U.S. citizens being held.

Meanwhile, Israeli media has reported about a string of government turf wars holding up assistance to victims families and evacuees displaced from their homes.

For two days after the attack, the government wasnt functioning. We didnt get any help, said Yossi Keren, who became head of the regional council in Shaar HaNegev, where many of the attacks took place, after his predecessor was killed confronting Hamas gunmen.

Most residents have evacuated, and their needs  everything from getting schooling for children to replacing computers families left behind  are enormous, he said. The government response is slowly getting better, though he remains wary.

If the government wont step in, the crisis will be bigger. Much bigger, Keren said.

Danny Danon, a senior member of Netanyahus Likud Party, acknowledged the governments shortcomings.

The government agencies were not capable of dealing with the numbers. So it took them some time to come back and to set up and provide the proper services, he said. Certainly its legitimate for the families to express their pain and criticism.

He said there would be an inquiry into what went wrong after the war, but right now Israel must remain focused on defeating Hamas. Netanyahu is very mission-oriented now in the war effort, he said.

Gideon Rahat, a political science professor at Hebrew University, said the dysfunction was a result of a bloated, divisive government that demonized and then pushed out many respected bureaucrats who would have been competent to handle an emergency.

When you are a populist government and all you do is talk and tweet and write posts instead of doing real things, when you are needed you dont know what to do, he said.

That vacuum in the current crisis has been filled by the governments sworn enemies, opponents of the judicial overhaul who had mobilized tens of thousands of protesters for weekly demonstrations against the overhaul plan.

Less than 12 hours after the Oct. 7 attack, they sent teams of medical volunteers to hospitals to help with the wounded and deliver food to their families, said Oren Shvill, one of the groups organizers. The next day, they started evacuating families and pairing them up with host families.

Really fast, we managed to transform our organization from protesting to civilian aid, he said. Everything we asked for, people just jumped on the mission.

Now, they have 15,000 volunteers a day coordinated from logistics centers in Tel Aviv, near Gaza and in the north, where the army is fighting Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, he said. And theyve been lauded as heroes in Israel.

They helped locate missing people; sent equipment to soldiers called to the Gaza border; shipped donated food, clothes, toys and medicine to the evacuees; and began coordinating an informal public relations operation for the country, Shvill said. They sent teachers and therapists to the evacuees hotels and set up operations there to answer their questions.

This week, they began sending volunteers to milk cows, pick tomatoes and cucumbers and plant potatoes at abandoned farms in the south.

Everything we are doing should have been done by the government, he said.

Associated Press reporter Julia Frankel in Jerusalem contributed to this report.
The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani reacts during a meeting, in Astana, Kazakhstan, Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022. (Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Sputnik, Kremlin pool photo via AP)

The United States and Qatar have agreed to revisit the Gulf states association with Hamas after resolution of the high-stakes international hostage crisis involving more than 220 people in Gaza, according to four diplomats familiar with the discussions.

The agreement, which has not been reported previously, was forged during a recent meeting in Doha between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani. Still undecided is whether the reevaluation will entail an exodus of Hamas leaders from Qatar, where they have long maintained a political office in the capital, or steps that come short of that, these officials said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss a sensitive matter.

The agreement is an attempt to balance the Biden administrations short-term goal of rescuing as many hostages as possible with its long-term objective of trying to isolate Hamas following its Oct. 7 rampage in Israel.

All I can say with regard to Qatar is, in this instance, we very much appreciate their assistance, Blinken told reporters last week when asked if he thinks Qatars hosting of the Hamas office is worthwhile. We want to focus on making sure that were getting those who remain hostage back home and with their loved ones. Thats the single most important thing.

Qatar, a tiny gas-rich peninsula in the Persian Gulf, has been instrumental in helping the United States and Israel secure the release of hostages and communicating with Hamas on other pressing issues, including the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and the safe passage of Palestinian-Americans out of the besieged enclave.

But its decision to provide harbor to Hamas political leaders and host an office for their operations, dating back more than a decade, has come under scrutiny by Republicans in Congress and other pro-Israel hard-liners.

I want to see President [Joe] Biden go after our allies that we have, like the Qataris ... and extradite these Hamas terrorists, Rep. Max L. Miller (R-Ohio) told reporters this month.

Since the cross-border attack, the Biden administration has adopted the Israeli governments policy of likening Hamas to the Islamic State and pressured foreign governments and financial institutions to cut ties with the group, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007. There can be no more business as usual with Hamas, Blinken said at a news conference in Qatar on Oct. 13.

The Treasury Department has launched a global campaign, imposing sanctions on Hamas members and financial facilitators in Algeria, Sudan, Turkey, Qatar and other places. The militant group receives economic and military support from Iran, Israels chief adversary.

But a zero-tolerance policy on Hamas associations threatens the delicate, ongoing hostage negotiations between the group and Qatar, talks that saw their first major breakthrough on Friday with the release of two American women who had been abducted in the assault. Since then, two Israeli women also have been freed. The Israeli government said Wednesday that more than half of the Hamas hostages have passports from foreign countries, including 54 Thai nationals, 15 Argentines, 12 Germans, 12 Americans, six French and six Russians.

More than any previous conflict in the Middle East, the war between Israel and Hamas is testing Qatars ability to manage its diverse portfolio of contacts without crossing red lines with core partners.

Its recent mediation efforts have elicited applause from the United States and rare praise from Israel.

Qatar is becoming an essential party and stakeholder in the facilitation of humanitarian solutions. Qatars diplomatic efforts are crucial at this time, Israeli national security adviser Tzachi Hanegbi said in a statement Wednesday.

While the potential departure of Hamas leaders from Qatar would represent a long-sought goal by pro-Israel hard-liners, it would likely drive the groups representatives to take up residence in less friendly harbors, said experts, potentially diminishing the Wests ability to negotiate thorny issues such as cease-fire agreements, humanitarian pauses or prisoner swaps.

If Hamas leaders left Qatar, they would likely go to Iran or Syria or Lebanon, or somewhere farther afield such as Algeria, said Bruce Riedel, a Middle East scholar and former official at the CIA. Relocating to Syria would amount to a feather in the cap of President Bashar al-Assad but they would most likely just move to Iran.

Qatar, unlike many actors in the Middle East, has sought to keep open lines of communication throughout the region and leverage its ties with a diverse array of players.

As a champion of the Palestinian cause, the wealthy nation of 2.7 million people pays the salaries of civil servants in Gaza and makes direct cash transfers to poor families there.

It hosts Hamas political leaders including Ismail Haniyeh, the groups supreme leader, and Khaled Mashaal, who survived an Israeli assassination attempt in 1997. In 2012, Qatars then-emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, became the first head of state to visit Hamas-controlled Gaza.

Qatar also has maintained low-key ties to Israel when other Gulf nations were firmly opposed to any contact. In the 1990s, Qatar permitted an Israeli trade office, the Jewish states only outpost in the Gulf.

Qatar, the biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas, shares the worlds largest natural gas field with Iran, resulting in a less hawkish policy toward Tehran than the one pursued by its neighbors, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates.

Key to Qatars security is its close partnership with the U.S. military. The country is home to the forward headquarters of U.S. Central Command, the largest U.S. military installation in the Middle East.

During the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, Qatars Al-Udeid base was a central node in Washingtons massive evacuation effort of Americans, foreigners and Afghan allies. During the Trump administration, Qatar also hosted negotiations between U.S. and Taliban leaders aimed at ending the conflict.

Washington considers Qatar a major non-NATO ally and the two engage in billions of dollars in military sales.

Besides negotiating the release of hostages, Qatar has also played a fixer role for the United States in various situations.

In the recent U.S. prisoner swap with Iran involving the unblocking of $6 billion in Iranian oil revenue, Qatar agreed to manage the money. The agreement limited Irans access to the funds to humanitarian items such as food and medicine. But after the Oct. 7 attack and in response to pressure from the U.S. Congress, Doha and Washington agreed not to act on requests from Tehran to access those funds for the time being.

Qatar has a 360 degree foreign policy, said Riedel. They host senior Hamas political officials. They provide the United States with a huge air base. They talk to the Iranians. They cover all their bases so they can communicate with anybody at any time in a low-key fashion.
Soldiers and airmen prepare to load elements of a THAAD missile system onto a C-17 Globemaster III at Fort Bliss, Texas, in February 2019. (Cory Payne/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  Almost 1,000 American troops have received orders to deploy to the Middle East to support Israel in its conflict with Hamas and provide stability in the region, the Pentagon said Thursday.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin decided several days ago to put 2,000 troops on pre-deployment orders to prepare for possible missions in the Middle East. On Thursday, the Pentagon said some of those orders have been activated.

Approximately 900 troops have  deployed or are in the process of deploying, said Air Force Brig. Gen Pat Ryder, the Pentagons top spokesman. These include forces that have been on prepare-to-deploy orders and which are deploying from the continental United States.

Ryder said the deploying troops are part of existing plans that were previously announced to send a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense battery from Fort Bliss, Texas, and Patriot batteries from Fort Sill, Okla. Patriot and Avenger batteries are also being sent from Fort Liberty, N.C., and Associated Air Defense headquarters elements from Fort Bliss and Fort Cavazos, Texas.

THAAD is an air defense system that can intercept short-, medium- and long-range ballistic missiles with radar and shoot them down. Patriot and Avenger systems work in a similar way.

Ryder declined to say specifically where the deploying U.S. forces are going.

I can confirm they are not going to Israel, he said. They are intended to support regional deterrence efforts and further bolster U.S. force protection capabilities.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, talks with reporters during a news briefing at the Pentagon on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (Jack Sanders/USAF)

The Pentagon said the number of U.S. service members who have pre-deployment orders might fluctuate depending on what is needed in the region, which has seen a severe increase of violence since Hamas militants on Oct. 7 broke through a border fence between Gaza and Israel and killed hundreds of Israeli civilians. Israels military has been carrying out airstrikes on Gaza in retaliation, which have killed scores of Palestinian civilians.

Ryder said the Pentagon is also sending two Iron Dome batteries to Israel. Iron Dome is a sophisticated air-defense system that tracks incoming enemy rockets and knocks them out of the sky. Since the Oct. 7 attack, Israel has intercepted dozens of rockets using Iron Dome batteries.

The two batteries had been assigned to the Army at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., but will now be transferred to Israel. The Pentagon has said previously that its been sending Iron Dome interceptors to Israel.

U.S. military bases throughout the Middle East continue to see drone and missile attacks from militant groups. Since Oct. 17, there have been 16 missile or drone attacks on American bases  12 in Iraq and 4 in Syria, where U.S. and coalition forces are fighting terrorist groups such as the Islamic State, Ryder said. The number of attacks was 13 on Tuesday.

One of the latest attacks occurred Thursday at an air base in Erbil in northern Iraq. Ryder said the attack caused no injuries and no significant property damage.

The Pentagon has not identified the groups behind the attacks but has said the militants are supported by Iran and are effectively Iranian proxy groups. The attacks caused almost two dozen injuries in the two countries, Ryder said, including 15 who received some form of traumatic brain injury.

In all cases, members returned to duty, he said.
An NYPD patrol car is parked outside a synagogue on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023. (Mary Altaffer/AP)

Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say theyve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

The Anti-Defamation League and the Center on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public.

A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wednesday that the organizations chapters and national office had received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The councils leaders believe its the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernadino mass shooting that left 14 people dead.

The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boys mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians.

Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiraling out of control, said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Center on American-Islamic Relations.

Saylor noted that former President George W. Bushs visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza.

The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism reported in a statement Wednesday that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23  compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, You are Jewish.

The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism found to be explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel, according to the statement.

Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel, but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land.

The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances.

It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism, Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement.

Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022.

Associated Press reporter Noreen Nasir in New York contributed to this report.
Newly elected House Speaker Mike Johnson, of Louisiana, meets with Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Jacquelyn Martin/AP)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden met with new House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House on Thursday to discuss his request for nearly $106 billion for Israel, Ukraine and other national security needs.

Johnson, a staunch conservative allied with Donald Trump, has shown little interest in providing additional money from Congress to support Ukraine in its war against Russia. Biden met briefly with Johnson and also with Jeffries before the House leaders joined a classified briefing with other congressional lawmakers on the assistance package, according to a White House official.

It was a productive meeting, Johnson told reporters back at the Capitol. I enjoyed my visit with the president.

The new Republican leader who swept into office nearly a month after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as speaker had a busy first full day in office, having inherited many of the same political problems that tormented past GOP leaders and challenged their tenure as speaker.

In the morning, Johnson said prayer is appropriate as a response to the mass shootings in Maine.

This is a dark time in America, Johnson said about the shootings.

Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that the evil can end and the senseless violence can stop, he said.

Johnson, an evangelical Christian from Louisiana, declined to take questions, including about the possibility of any gun violence legislation from Congress.

The House convened with a bustle of activity, making up for lost time during the weeks of chaos since McCarthys ouster as speaker. But the initial goodwill toward Johnson blurs the political fault lines challenging his ability to lead the GOP majority in the face of daunting issues ahead.

By Nov. 17, the Congress must fund the government again or risk a federal shutdown. Biden wants nearly $106 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Israel and Ukraine. And Republicans are eager to resume their impeachment inquiry into Biden over his son Hunters business dealings.

Enough of the chaos, enough of the dysfunction, said Jeffries, D-N.Y., adding it was time for Congress to get back to business.

Jeffries said Democrats were heartbroken over the latest shootings and stand with the people of Maine in every way possible, including discussing how Congress can address gun violence.

The briefing in the Situation Room for Johnson and other House leaders on the emergency funding request was the first time the new speaker, who opposes the aid to Ukraine, was getting a close airing from White House officials about Bidens case for the money. The White House has conducted similar briefings in recent weeks.

Biden had called Johnson to congratulate him after his election Wednesday and said it was time for all of us to act responsibly to fund the government and provide that foreign aid. We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

Johnson, 51, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn in as speaker and is now second in line to the presidency after the vice president.

While not the Republicans top choice, Johnson had few foes and an important backer in Donald Trump.

Hes a tremendous leader, Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the Republican front-runner for the White House in 2024 is on trial over a lawsuit alleging business fraud.

At the Capitol on Thursday, Johnson sat down with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who told reporters afterward that he had a very good meeting with the new speaker.

Johnson met later with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who said on social media they had a great meeting. He has also heard from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who told the new speaker in a Wednesday call that a bipartisan agreement with Democrats is the only way to avoid a shutdown.

In winning the gavel, Johnson, who has been in the House for less than a decade, drew together fellow Republicans through his faith, conservative roots and Trumps nod after more seasoned leaders had failed. Far-right members in the House had refused to accept a more traditional speaker, and moderate conservatives did not want a hard-liner.

You watch and see how much this House of Representatives can actually get done under Mike Johnson, said Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, who led the eight hard-liners in ousting McCarthy.

Democrats said Johnson, a lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, was an extreme conservative, a strict opponent of abortion access and an architect of Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

After Johnsons election, lawmakers approved a resolution Wednesday saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. They next turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Rather than take a scheduled work period at home, Republicans rearranged the House calendar to return to Washington next week and keep pushing through the various government funding bills before the Nov. 17 deadline.

In a letter to colleagues, Johnson outlined priorities that include providing a short-term funding bill into next year to prevent a November shutdown  almost the same move that led to McCarthys ouster.

While Johnson has spoken of the importance of helping fund Israel in the fight against Hamas, he has shown little interest in providing more money for Ukraine as it battles Russia.

Speaker Johnson has been very clear that weve got to secure Americas border, we want to support Israel, said Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who conferred with Johnson ahead of the White House meeting. But all of the other items that the President is talking about run secondary.

It appears the House Republicans will try to separate Bidens aid package, voting swiftly on help for Israel while looking at other options for Ukraine, including linking it with measures to beef up U.S. border security.

Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Johnson is thoughtful and smart and understands that aid for Ukraine is a national security issue, despite opposition from other Republicans in their majority.

And what I saw in the Situation Room was I thought he was very open to the idea, said McCaul.

To avoid a shutdown, Johnson will need to balance far-right demands with the realities of keeping the government functioning. Most Republicans voted against the budget deal McCarthy, R-Calif., struck with Biden earlier this year, demanding steeper spending cuts.

Similar Republican infighting has chased three other GOP speakers to early departures. The difference now is that Republican rules allow any single lawmaker to force a vote to remove the speaker from office.

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin in New York, Darlene Superville and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
The suicide rate among active-duty troops slightly increased in 2022 as the overall number of suicides decreased in the military, according to an annual Pentagon report released Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023. (Defense Department)

WASHINGTON  The suicide rate among active-duty troops slightly increased in 2022 as the overall number of suicides decreased in the military, according to an annual Pentagon report released Thursday.

The Pentagon reported an active-duty suicide rate of about 25 suicide deaths for every 100,000 service members last year, a 3% increase from 2021.

The rate difference is not statistically significant, so we have low confidence this is a true change. It could be natural variability or chance, said Liz Clark, the Pentagons director of the Defense Suicide Prevention Office.

Clark said this also holds true for the rate of decreases among the Reserve and National Guard troops of 12% and 18%, respectively.

Elizabeth Foster, the executive director of the Pentagons Force Resiliency Office, said due to the decreasing size of the active-duty force, the Defense Department believes the rate of suicides, rather than the number of suicides, is a more accurate measure.

The departments fifth annual Suicide in the Military report showed 492 service members died by suicide in 2022, down from 524 in 2021.

For active-duty troops, there were 331 suicides in 2022, compared with 328 in 2021. Of those, Army suicides dropped from 175 in 2021 to 135 in 2022. The Marine Corps saw the biggest increase, from 43 to 61. The Air Force followed, which increased from 51 to 64, and the Navy dropped from 59 to 71. Space Force did not have any suicides.

As in previous years, the 2022 report identifies young, enlisted men as the most vulnerable to suicide. About 91% of active-duty suicides were among enlisted troops, 68% of suicides were among those younger than 30 years old and 93% were among male troops.

Firearms were the most common method of suicide, the report concluded. About 69% of suicides among active-duty troops were with a gun.

The Defense Department in recent years has aimed to improve mental health care access for troops, amid increases in suicide rates and outcry from members of Congress and others.

There were almost 29 suicides per 100,000 troops in 2020  up from 17.5 per 100,000 in 2010, according to Defense Department data. That figure fell to 24.3 per 100,000 in 2021, but it still represented an uptick in suicides compared to most of the 2000s and 2010s.

In 2022, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin approved the establishment of the Suicide Prevention and Response Independent Review Committee, and the group made 127 recommendations of near- and long-term solutions to address suicides in the ranks.

The independent panel recommended the department implement a series of gun safety measures to reduce suicides in the force, including waiting periods for the purchase of firearms and ammunition by service members on military property.

The panel said the department should also raise the minimum age to 25 for service members to buy guns and ammunition and should require anyone living in military housing to register privately owned firearms. In addition, the panel said the department should restrict the possession and storage of privately owned firearms in military barracks and dorms.

Austin released a memo last month outlining more than 100 recommendations to be implemented by 2030 to address the suicide crisis in the military. Some of the recommendations included expanding telehealth services, increasing appointment availability by revising the mental health staff model, launching a comprehensive public education campaign on firearm safety, and updating the amount of suicide prevention training. The department chose not to implement the firearm changes at the time.

There is no single solution to preventing suicide, but I remain focused on actions that will make a real difference and change the culture around this critical challenge, Austin said in a statement. Together, we can prevent suicide and take care of every outstanding patriot who steps up to defend our country.

The 2022 suicide report also included data about military family suicides for 2021. The military family suicide rate is about 6.5 suicides per 100,000 family members, a 16% decrease from 2020.
Army Col. Jeanette Martin, left, pins the Soldiers Medal on Staff Sgt. Aschlynd Spidell-Flores on Oct. 20, 2023, at Fort Knox, Ky. Spidell-Flores was honored for risking her life to pull a woman out of her smoldering car following a crash on Oct. 3, 2022. (Maria McClure/U.S. Army)

A soldier who hauled a badly injured woman from a smoking vehicle following a car crash near Fort Knox, Ky., has been awarded the Armys highest honor for noncombat heroism.

Staff Sgt. Aschlynd Spidell-Flores was presented Friday with the Soldiers Medal during a ceremony at the base, where she also met the woman she saved, Dianna McMahan, for the first time since the accident happened a little over year ago, the Army said in a statement Monday.

An information technology specialist assigned to Human Resources Command, Spidell-Flores was driving home from work when she heard McMahans car crash into another vehicle just ahead of her, the statement said.

The two cars had collided and struck the guard rail. She began prying open the first cars door until realizing that the driver was dead. Saffire Doss was later pronounced dead at the scene from her injuries, Kentucky State Police said.

Spidell-Flores ran to the other car, where she saw McMahan alive and inside.

There were fires everywhere, Spidell-Flores said in a video broadcast by WDRB, the Fox television affiliate in Louisville. I could see sparks under the car, so I was like, if I dont get her out of the car, this could be it. 

McMahans vehicle had a significant gas leak and there were several fires near the cars, according to the Army.

I was asking her if she was OK, Spidell-Flores was quoted in the statement as saying. When she finally responded, I told her I was going to get her out.

After pulling McMahan out of the car and getting her to a safe distance, Spidell-Flores used her belt as a tourniquet and placed it around McMahans lower leg to stop the bleeding. She stayed with McMahan until first responders arrived.

The first time Army Staff Sgt. Aschlynd Spidell-Flores, right, encountered Dianna McMahan, she was unconscious. They met again Oct. 20, 2023, at Fort Knox, Ky., prior to a Soldiers Medal presentation ceremony, where Spidell-Flores was honored for risking her life to rescue McMahan on Oct. 3, 2022, following a car crash. (Maria McClure/U.S. Army) Army Staff Sgt. Aschlynd Spidell-Flores, left, and Luke Cooper, Dianna McMahans brother, listen as McMahan describes her recovery from injuries in a car crash last year. Spidell-Flores was awarded the Soldier's Medal on Oct. 20, 2023, for saving McMahan's life. (Maria McClure/U.S. Army)

Both women fought back tears as they recounted the events of Oct. 3, 2022.

The only thing I remember from the accident is her voice saying were going to get you out of here, McMahan told WDRB. It was like the voice of an angel. It was very calm.

Its an overwhelming thankful feeling to finally be able to hug ... the person who saved my life.

The crash fractured both of McMahans feet, broke six ribs and caused some brain trauma, NBC television affiliate WAVE in Louisville reported, adding that McMahan still needs physical therapy.

After Spidell-Floress award ceremony, she was promoted to staff sergeant in accordance with her career achievements, the Army said.

Staff Sgt. Spidell-Flores changed the lives of a lot of people that day, Col. Jeanette Martin, director of the Human Resources Commands Enterprise Modernization Directorate, said while presenting Spidell-Flores with the Soldiers Medal.

Shes providing first aid to the victim after pulling her from her vehicle, among smoke and fire with no regard for herself, Martin said. She did that selflessly without any thought about what if.

So not only are we honoring a great soldier, were honoring an all-around great American.

The Soldiers Medal is the highest peacetime award for an act of heroism in a noncombat situation. Fewer than 300 soldiers currently on active duty have been awarded the Soldiers Medal, according to the Army.

I could have gotten injured, Spidell-Flores said in the statement. Her car was hot. When I put my forearm on the steering wheel to lean her back, it was like steaming hot, but I didnt care what I had to do to get her out, what could have happened. I didnt care.
U.S. soldiers demonstrate a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System to multinational troops during a live-fire exercise at Central Training Area, Estonia, Sept. 27, 2023. (Cesar Salazar Jr./U.S. Army)

WASHINGTON  The Pentagon on Thursday announced another shipment of military weapons and equipment for Ukraine as Congress faces a deadline to authorize more aid to help the country in its war with Russia.

The new aid is worth $150 million and includes mostly air-defense equipment, missiles, small-arms ammunition and various other maintenance and logistical items, the Defense Department said. Like most previous aid packages to Ukraine, the new tranche is being sent through presidential drawdown authority, which allows the Pentagon to take equipment and weapons from U.S. military stocks and send them to Europe on an emergency basis.

Though Congress has not yet authorized fiscal 2024 funding for the Defense Department, the Pentagon still has a couple billion dollars in drawdown authority that can be spent on aid to Ukraine. Once those funds run out, however, federal lawmakers would need to approve more.

The drawdown funds would have already run out if it wasnt for an accounting error that the Pentagon uncovered in June that opened an additional $6.2 billion. The department had overestimated costs for missiles, ammunition and other equipment and that resulted in the unexpected surplus. The other main option for sending equipment, the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, has already run out of money, military officials said.

In its new aid announcement, the Defense Department called on Congress to quickly authorize more funds for Ukraine. Military officials and President Joe Biden have said recently that the United States can afford to send aid to Ukraine as well as help Israel, which is now engaged in a war with the militant group Hamas.

Security assistance for Ukraine is a smart investment in our national security. It helps to prevent a larger conflict in the region and deter potential aggression elsewhere, while strengthening our defense industrial base and creating highly skilled jobs for the American people, the Pentagon said in a statement Thursday. The Biden administration calls on Congress to meet its commitment to the people of Ukraine by passing additional funding to ensure Ukraine continues to have what it needs to defend itself.

Congress must pass funding for 2024 by Nov. 17 to avoid a government shutdown after lawmakers agreed to a 45-day stopgap spending measure when the new fiscal year began Oct. 1.

Thursdays aid package is smaller than previous rounds of Ukrainian assistance. A package last month was worth $325 million and another in July was worth $400 million. Biden has so far committed roughly $44 billion in security aid to Ukraine since Russia invaded the country in February 2022.

Included in Thursdays new Ukrainian security package:
First-line responders at the national Veterans Crisis Line received more training following the suicide of a veteran who had texted the hotline for help, Department of Veterans Affairs officials said Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. (Joshua J. Seybert/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  First-line responders received more training, and a supervisor was transferred from an oversight position following the suicide of a veteran who had texted a national crisis line for help, Department of Veterans Affairs officials told senators.

Several VA officials assured senators during a hearing Wednesday that they are taking steps to address a department inspector generals report that cited the Veterans Crisis Line for an inadequate response to communications from a veteran in Texas who killed himself less than hour after texting with a crisis responder at the hotline.

Testifying before the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, a senior VA official said changes in operations are planned or underway at the crisis line.

The actual event, as tragic as it is, as we all know, there were some opportunities for us to look at the process and procedures that were in place. And some changes have been made already, said David Perry, Veterans Health Administrations chief officer for workforce management and consulting.

Retraining occurred for those crisis responders  and then also were looking at the process of who can fill in when those positions need to be staffed adequately, he said. And so those changes have already occurred in the actual procedures itself. The supervisor is still on staff, but they are not in a direct veteran crisis responder role.

The VAs Office of Inspector General issued a report in September that cited the Veterans Crisis Line for mismanagement of its response in 2021 to the Texas veterans texts for help as well as deficient in follow-up actions after his death.

The IG report described the first responders actions as inadequate in assessing the veterans suicidal preparatory behavior and alcohol use. The report also stated the national hotline does not have procedures in place for retaining text messages and took problematic actions after the mans death.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., pressed VA officials about what type of reforms are planned for the crisis line  and when they will be implemented  in response to the IG report. But Perry said the report is still actively being reviewed.

When Cassidy asked when the review would be done, Perry responded: I cant give you a timeline. It is on the top of our priority list.

Four weeks seems plenty enough time to investigate, Cassidy said, referring to the release of the report last month.

The senator also criticized the hotlines former executive director for deciding not to conduct a necessary root cause analysis following the veterans suicide. Cassidy said the decision was only reversed when an IG investigation was initiated. He also said the former executive director was moved up to a senior executive position at VA headquarters.

The national crisis hotline is used frequently by veterans and received more than 750,000 calls between July 2022 and July 2023. About 250,000 veterans contacted the crisis line via chat or text messaging, the VA has said.

The Senate committee was assured a plan to improve crisis response and veteran safety will be developed, after the IG report is reviewed, along with underlying evidence and recommendations.
BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China produced 271.248 tonnes of gold in the first nine months of 2023, up 1.261 tonnes or 0.47 percent compared with the same period last year, industry data showed Wednesday.

In the January-September period, gold consumption in China totaled 835.07 tonnes, up 7.32 percent year on year, according to the data released by China Gold Association (CGA).

Specifically, consumption of gold jewelry in the Chinese market rose 5.72 percent year on year to 552.04 tonnes, while that of gold bars and coins surged 15.98 percent from the same period in 2022 to 222.37 tonnes.

During the period, consumption of gold for industrial and other use fell 5.53 percent from a year earlier to 60.66 tonnes, CGA data showed.

In the third quarter alone, holdings of gold-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in China added 9.53 tonnes.

The figure brought total holdings of gold ETFs in the Chinese market to about 59.69 tonnes by the end of September, according to the association. 
Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani says Pakistan plans to host conference on transport connectivity for regional prosperity this year.

Addressing Council of Heads of Government of Shanghai Cooperation Organization at Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan today, he said SCO Business Council and Inter Bank Association can play a vital role in fostering economic and commercial cooperation amongst SCO member states.

As a succeeding chair of SCO, he said Pakistan will continue to support the existing mechanisms.

Jalil Abbas Jilani said Pakistan is committed to Shanghai spirit that stands for mutual trust and respect for shared prosperity and development.

He reiterated the commitment to give top priority to critical areas including connectivity, transport linkages and climate change during the country's Chairmanship of council of Heads of Government.

The Foreign Minister said Pakistan will continue to strengthen cooperation in education and poverty alleviation.

The Foreign Minister said sustainable economic development cannot be guaranteed without durable peace and security in Afghanistan. He said the SCO can play an important role in this regard.

Alluding to the climate induced disasters, he said it threatens survival of humanity and demands global solidarity and cooperation.
Thomas was killed so senselessly. I wish I could have protected him. I constantly think Did he suffer? Did he think about his family?

The heartbroken father of Limerick man Thomas Murphy (42), who was stabbed death by his housemate in Manchester last year, has said they have nothing but abject hatred for his killer.

After Stephen Owusu (23) was handed an indefinite hospital order for the horrific killing by a court yesterday, Mr Murphys dad, Joe, said telling his family of his sons death was the worst moment of my life.

In a statement read by prosecutor Rob Hall, Joe Murphy said: Thomas was a lovely person. Thomas had a great sense of humour.

Thomas took every opportunity to tell people how proud he was of them, especially his daughters, he said.

Stephen Owusu

Thomas was killed so senselessly. I wish I could have protected him. I constantly think Did he suffer? Did he think about his family?

The waves of sadness come over us when something reminds us of him. A song, an old message, a photo. I wake every night at 4am, the same time when the police told us what had happened.

He added that the family was left angry and traumatised by his death and had nothing but abject hatred for Owusu.

Thomas is not here, albeit he is always in our hearts, Joe added. Rose (Mr Murphys mum) says many times that he will never walk through our front door again. We are left only with our memories and a picture of Thomas hanging on our wall, he added.

Thomas Murphy

Thomas Murphys two teenage daughters told of the moment the police informed them their dad had died.

I can remember returning home on Sunday afternoon after seeing my friends, to see the policeman waiting at the top of our road - stood outside our house, his older daughter said.

We knew straight away, we knew it was about dad. We could tell by the look on his face.

They came into the house and we went upstairs whilst the police spoke to my mum. They then called us downstairs and told us our dad had been murdered.

It didnt make sense, our dad wasnt a violent or evil person. We cried and cuddled our mum. My dad was an amazing person, the life and soul of the party and nobody ever had a bad word about him.

Mr Murphy's youngest daughter wept as she spoke of her dads funeral in Ireland.

We travelled to Ireland, hoping to see him for one last time to say goodbye. I was heartbroken when they told us the coffin would not be open because his face was unrecognisable, she sobbed.

My dad always wanted a silver bracelet with a heart charm, so we brought him one so it could be with him in the coffin. The amount of people that came showed how much they loved him.

As they went to his grave to lay him to rest, both daughters threw flowers onto his coffin so he could have a piece of us with him.

Stephen Owusu had stabbed Mr Murphy repeatedly with a 20cm knife before leaving him to die last September, after mistakenly believing Mr Murphy had broken his plate and left a piece of it under the sofa to slight him.

They had been housemates at a house on Beverly Road, Fallowfield, for just two months before he attacked the dad-of-two and left him with 34 stab wounds.

Owusu had issues with his mental health, and was later diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.

He was handed an indefinite hospital order after admitting an offence of manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.

Manchester Crown Court heard that following the attack, Owusu left Mr Murphy alone before washing the blood from his hands and knife.

He then went to his bedroom and when the police later arrested him, he told them: He picked a fight and he lost.

Owusu, of Beverly Road, was handed a section 37 hospital order with section 41 restrictions. Sentencing him, Judge John Potter told him: Your actions extinguished a beacon of light.
Oran Brown (22) of Coolatee, Lifford escaped a custodial sentence

An aspiring young Donegal jockey who was caught with 11,000 worth of drugs has escaped a custodial sentence.

Oran Brown (22) of Coolatee, Lifford appeared at Letterkenny Circuit Court on Wednesday for sentencing after being charged with possession of cocaine and possession of cannabis for the purpose of sale and supply.

Defence counsel for Brown Mr Peter Nolan BL, told the court that his client, who arrived in court on crutches, was expected to ride in Cheltenham this week as part of his work in England as a conditional apprentice with horse trainer Richard Hannon LTD.

Detective Garda Michelle Kelly told Ms Fiona Crawford BL, counsel for the State, that Gardai had received confidential information in relation to the defendant and a search warrant was granted for his residence.

On June 25 2020 at around 12.30pm, Gardai attended the address and observed two men sitting in a car outside the property. The man in the passenger seat was identified as Brown.

Access was granted to Gardai through an unlocked door and Brown entered the home and admitted to having controlled drugs in the house.

Brown pointed out several locations where the drugs were hidden.

Gardai observed a strong smell of Cannabis coming from Browns bedroom and a large quantity of drugs were found.

In total, detectives seized 433.4 grams of cannabis worth around 8,668, while 35.783 grams of cocaine estimated to have a street value of 2,504.81.

A zopiclone tablet, valued at 2, was also found during the search.

The drugs had a combined total of 11,174.81.

A grinder, weighing scales and ziploc bags were also found.

A line of suspected cocaine was found on the dresser, while cocaine was also found inside a safe.

Also in the safe was cash to the value of 7,225 and 2,480.

Brown was searched and a cylinder with cannabis and a grinder was found on his person.

He was arrested and taken to Letterkenny Garda Station.

During interview, Brown told Gardai he had been working in England as a jockey but had returned home and had been living with this grandparents and worked with a company in Strabane.

He told Gardai he smoked a lot of weed and sniffed cocaine.

Brown said the drugs were for his own personal use, but added, I sold a few bags of weed too.

When questioned about the cash, he said it had been his birthday and he was given money by family members.

Brown refused to give Gardai the pin to his mobile phone and said there was stuff on the phone he did not want them to see.

Detective Garda Kelly said Gardai were unable to access the data from his phone as the PIN was not provided.

He said there may be messages about weed, but not about the sale of cocaine.

The court heard Brown has no previous convictions and he had not come to adverse attention since.

Mr Peter Nolan BL. Photo: North West News Pix

Barrister for Brown, Mr Peter Nolan BL, said his client had co-operated with Gardai and had pointed out where the drugs were, took responsibility and did not try to blame anyone else.

Mr Nolan said Brown had been accepted as an apprentice jockey on the flat but his weight had got the better of him.

Mr Nolan said Brown had been using cocaine to help stabilise his weight, adding this is an ongoing problem within British horseracing and regular drugs testing procedures have now been introduced.

Mr Nolan said Brown had great ambition to be a flat race jockey but his weight could not be controlled and this is how he came to be involved in cocaine and ended up where he is now.

When it appeared that Brown would not be successful, he returned home around six months before the offence.

The court heard that Brown is now living in England and is a conditional jockey riding under national hunt rules, which has a higher weight restriction for jockeys.

Two positive references were presented to the court on behalf of Brown  one from Fr Colm ODoherty, Lifford Parish Priest, and Naomh Padraig GAA Club.

A probation report was submitted to the court and detailed that Brown had shown deep remorse and shame.

Mr Nolan said Brown would be forced to undergo regular screening as part of his work and he has been drug free for two years.

Mr Nolan said Brown has a good future ahead of him as a national hunt jockey and asked the court to be as lenient as possible adding he has learnt a serious lesson and it was stupidity that led him to these circumstances.

Judge John Aylmer. Photo: North West News Pix

Judge John Aylmer said Brown was just slightly below the 13,000 threshold which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years.

Judge Aylmer said there has to be a deterrent element in relation to these offences and said sentencing for possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling or supplying carries a starting point of five years in prison.

Judge Aylmer said it was clear from the paraphernalia, grinders, drug bags and refusal of access to his phone that there was a significant amount of dealing going on.

The judge acknowledged there was no element of sale of cocaine but said the quantity is significant, adding a two-year prison sentence was the starting point for sentencing on the charge of the unlawful possession of cocaine.

In mitigation, Judge Aylmer said Brown was a young man with no previous convictions who had engaged positively in horse-riding, or was employed in a joinery business.

Judge Aylmer said Brown had been co-operative with Gardai showing them the various locations of the drugs, but added he suspects the Gardai would have found them anyway.

Browns early guilty plea was acknowledged but Judge Aylmer said it was a case of being caught red handed which always lessens the value of an early plea.

Judge Aylmer said he noted the explanation as to how Brown became involved in drugs abuse and added the introduction of drug testing within horse racing was an incentive for Brown to stay away.

Judge Aylmer also noted the positive references.

In sentencing, Judge Aylmer acknowledged the seriousness of the offences, but added there are cases where the defendant deserves a second chance.

Judge Aylmer reduced the sentence for the possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling or supplying to three-and-a-half years in prison, but the sentence was suspended for three-and-a-half years with Brown entering a 100 bond to keep the peace.

On the charge of unlawful possession of cocaine, Brown was sentenced to 16 months in prison, but was ordered to do 240 hours of community service in lieu of the prison sentence. He was given 18 months to complete the service.

Judge Aylmer said he was very fortunate to escape a custodial sentence.

A destruction order was made for the cash and drugs.
Miroslav Sedlacek told a jury at the Central Criminal Court that Jozef Puska (33) "stressed" to him that he didn't do it intentionally.

Jozef Puska has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ashling Murphy

A TRANSLATOR has given evidence that the man accused of murdering Ashling Murphy made a spontaneous admission from his hospital bed, telling him "I did it, I kill her".

Miroslav Sedlacek told a jury at the Central Criminal Court that Jozef Puska (33) "stressed" to him that he didn't do it intentionally.

Mr Sedlacek said that he would describe Mr Puska as being in very low spirits, even "desperate" after the admission.

The translator was giving evidence in the trial of Mr Puska, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ashling Murphy at Cappincur, Tullamore on January 12, 2022.

Mr Sedlacek said that he was asked to assist gardai with translation services on two occasions on January 14. Both times he was translating over the phone.

Mr Sedlacek said the first call took place around lunch-time and concerned an alleged attack on Mr Puska in Blanchardstown, and how Mr Puska travelled from Tullamore from Blanchardstown.

Me Sedlacek said Mr Puska told him that someone gave him a lift to Dublin, and he got a taxi to Blanchardstown, as he had planned to meet a girl.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska told him he got out of the taxi, walked a short distance and he was then attacked by two guys with dark skin, but he could not remember details.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska was also asked about a bike, and he described it to gardai.

Mr Sedlacek told Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, that Mr Puska was speaking freely and quite quickly at the time, and he had to stop him so he could translate to gardai.

The court heard that Mr Sedlacek was asked to translate a second time, about 6pm that same evening.

Mr Sedlacek said the conversation started with gardai directing him to explain to Mr Puska that gardai had a search warrant for his belongings.

Gardai beside the Grand Canal in Tullamore, where Ashling Murphy was found dead (Niall Carson/PA)

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska wanted to know why gardai were seizing his belongings.

He said it was explained to Mr Puska that gardai were investigating a murder in Tullamore.

Mr Sedlacek said gardai asked Mr Puska if he had any information about the incident in Tullamore.

Mr Puska told them that he knew something about it from the internet, Mr Sedlacek said.

Mr Puska then wanted to know if he was a suspect, Mr Sedlacek said, and it was explained to him that he was a person of interest, and what that meant.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska then asked him to translate his confession accurately, exactly.

Mr Sedlacek said this was quite spontaneous and everything came quickly.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska said "I did it, I kill her".

The translator said Mr Puska also said he didn't to it intentionally and that he didn't want to do it.

Mr Sedlacek also said that Mr Puska told: "I am very sorry that I did it, that it happened".

Mr Sedlacek told Ms Lawlor that he was translating all this to English.

Mr Puska also expressed concern that his family would be safe following his confession, Mr Sedlacek said.

He said Mr Puska's voice was different during the evening conversation. His voice was "trembling", and his "sentences were quite disjointed".

Mr Sedlacek said he supposed this was "due to the situation he was in".

Mr Sedlacek said gardai then told him Mr Puska was not feeling well and they would have to end the call.

Cross examined by Michael Bowman SC, Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska paused when he learnt he was a person of interest in the murder investigation, but it wasn't too long a pause, possibly 30 seconds.

Mr Sedlacek also told Mr Bowman that Mr Puska "stressed" he didn't do it intentionally, and he did not understand how it would have happened.

Mr Bowman will continue to cross examine Mr Sedlacek this afternoon.

The jury also heard from Roz Gillen, a site nurse manager in St James's Hospital, who said a female garda advised her that gardai had a search warrant for Mr Puska's belongings.

Ms Gillen said Mr Puska was on a six-bed ward at the time, and she advised that he be moved to a single room, for privacy.

Ms Gillen said Mr Puska was in his bed at the time, and hospital staff just moved him across the ward in the bed.

Cross examined by Mr Bowman, Ms Gillen accepted that gardai did not ask her if they could speak to any of Mr Puska's treating physicians.

She also said she had no understanding of Mr Puska's state of mind or medical circumstances.

The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and a jury of nine men and three women.
Palestinians line up to buy bread in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. United Nations (UN) agencies on Tuesday warned that civilians in the Gaza Strip were going through a catastrophic situation and called on all actors to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to avert a further deterioration. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

GENEVA, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- United Nations (UN) agencies on Tuesday warned that civilians in the Gaza Strip were going through a catastrophic situation and called on all actors to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to avert a further deterioration.

Rick Brennan, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Emergencies Director for Eastern Mediterranean Region, told a press briefing here Tuesday from Cairo that the ongoing bombardment of Gaza had resulted in over 5,000 deaths, half of which could be women and children.

He said that one third of all hospitals in Gaza were now not functioning, and people with chronic diseases were finding it more and more difficult to access services they needed, and it was expected that their mortality rate would also increase.

According to the WHO official, an estimated 150 to 200 women were giving birth there each day, and those experiencing difficulties during delivery were at particular risk.

"Some 1.4 million people were now acutely displaced, it was unprecedented that such a large number of people had been displaced over such a short time. This was an incredibly difficult situation," he said, adding that "There was a real worry of the spread of infectious diseases, which could be just a matter of time."

The WHO official also stressed that having fuel was absolutely essential for the functioning of hospitals and ambulances, and WHO was pleading for a sustained, scaled-up, protected humanitarian operation.

Tamara Alrifai of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) told the briefing from Amman that since October 21, three convoys of humanitarian supplies have entered the Gaza Strip with 54 trucks.

She said that before the conflict, 500 trucks had been arriving in the Gaza Strip every day, so the 15 to 20 trucks that had arrived in Gaza per day over the previous three days were but a trickle of what was needed.

The UNRWA called for the lifting of the humanitarian siege and urged continuous and unimpeded humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip, she said, adding that the displaced people would soon be needing winter clothes.

"Because of the overcrowding, many were sleeping in the courtyards, which would make it very difficult when the winter hit," she said. 

A Palestinian baker is seen at a bakery in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. United Nations (UN) agencies on Tuesday warned that civilians in the Gaza Strip were going through a catastrophic situation and called on all actors to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to avert a further deterioration. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

Palestinians line up to buy bread in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. United Nations (UN) agencies on Tuesday warned that civilians in the Gaza Strip were going through a catastrophic situation and called on all actors to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to avert a further deterioration. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

A Palestinian baker is seen at a bakery in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, Oct. 25, 2023. United Nations (UN) agencies on Tuesday warned that civilians in the Gaza Strip were going through a catastrophic situation and called on all actors to provide sufficient humanitarian assistance to avert a further deterioration. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)
On Thursday afternoon, the jury heard from a number of forensic experts.

A FINGERPRINT mark and a DNA sample belonging to murder accused Jozef Puska were taken from on a bicycle found near Ashling Murphy's body, a court heard.

The chances of the DNA belonging to anyone other than Mr Puska (33) was "one in a billion", DNA expert John Hoade said.

Mr Hoade was giving evidence in the trial of Mr Puska, who has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Ashling Murphy at Cappincur, Tullamore on January 12, 2022.

On Thursday afternoon, the jury heard from a number of forensic experts.

Dr Kim Connick, a fingerprint analyst with Forensic Science Ireland said she examined three items, a navy fleece raincoat, a Falcon storm bike and a pair of sunglasses.

Dr Connick said she found nothing on the jacket. She found an area of possible touch on the inside lense of the sunglasses, but it was not sufficient to develop a fingerprint and it was sent to the DNA section for analysis.

Dr Connick also said she found a fingerprint mark on the underside of the saddle on the bike.

Detective Sergeant Damian Carroll, from the Garda Technical Bureau, said he analysed a photograph of a fingerprint mark, given to him by Dr Connick, against a set of fingerprints provided by Mr Puska.

Sgt Carroll said that the fingerprint mark provided by Dr Connick matched the right ring finger of Mr Puska.

John Hoade, recently retired from Forensic Science Ireland, was an expert in the analysis of DNA, the court heard.

Mr Hoade said he swabbed the handlebars and gear changing mechanism of a bike.

The bike was found at the Grand Canal in Tullamore near Ashling Murphy's body, the jury previously heard.

Mr Hoade said he compared a DNA swab from the bike to DNA taken from Mr Puska at Tullamore Garda Station and to a blood sample provided by him at St James' Hospital.

Mr Hoade said all three DNA profiles matched. The chances of the DNA on the bike belonging to someone other than Mr Puska was one in a billion of the Irish population, the court heard.

In cross examination, defence lawyer Michael Bowman SC put it to Mr Hoade that Mr Puska was not ethnically Irish.

Mr Hoade said this would have been calculated into the equation.

On Thursday morning the jury heard from translator Miroslav Sedlacek who said Mr Puska made a spontaneous confession from his hospital bed in St James' Hospital, telling him "I did it, I kill her".

Mr Sedlacek said Jozef Puska (33) "stressed" to him that he didn't do it intentionally.

He said he would describe Mr Puska as being in very low spirits, even "desperate" after the confession.

The court heard that Mr Sedlacek was asked to assist gardai with translation services on two occasions on January 14, 2022. Both times he was translating over the phone.

Ashling Murphy

Mr Sedlacek said the first call took place around lunch-time and concerned an alleged attack on Mr Puska in Blanchardstown, and how Mr Puska travelled from Tullamore from Blanchardstown.

Mr Sedlacek told Anne-Marie Lawlor SC, prosecuting, that Mr Puska was speaking freely and quite quickly at this time, and he had to stop him so he could translate to gardai.

The court heard that Mr Sedlacek was asked to translate a second time, about 6pm that same evening.

Mr Sedlacek said the conversation started with gardai directing him to explain to Mr Puska that gardai had a search warrant for his belongings.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska wanted to know why gardai were seizing his belongings.

He said it was explained to Mr Puska that gardai were investigating a murder in Tullamore.

Mr Sedlacek said gardai asked Mr Puska if he had any information about the incident in Tullamore.

Mr Puska told them that he knew something about it from the internet, Mr Sedlacek said.

Mr Puska then wanted to know if he was a suspect, Mr Sedlacek said, and it was explained to him that he was a person of interest, and what that meant.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska then asked him to translate his confession accurately, exactly.

Mr Sedlacek said this was quite spontaneous and everything came quickly.

Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska said "I did it, I kill her".

The translator said Mr Puska also said he didn't to it intentionally and that he didn't want to do it.

Mr Sedlacek asaid Mr Puska told him: "I am very sorry that I did it, that it happened".

Mr Sedlacek told Ms Lawlor that he was translating all this to English.

Mr Puska also expressed concern that his family would be safe following his confession, Mr Sedlacek said.

He said Mr Puska's voice was different during the evening conversation. His voice was "trembling", and his "sentences were quite disjointed".

Mr Sedlacek said he supposed this was "due to the situation he was in".

Mr Sedlacek said gardai then told him Mr Puska was not feeling well and they would have to end the call.

Cross examined by Mr Bowman, Mr Sedlacek said Mr Puska paused when he learnt he was a person of interest in the murder investigation, but it wasn't too long a pause, possibly 30 seconds.

Mr Sedlacek also told Mr Bowman that Mr Puska "stressed" he didn't do it intentionally, and he did not understand how it would have happened.

The jury also heard from Roz Gillen, a site nurse manager in St James' Hospital, who said a female gardai advised her that gardai had a search warrant for Mr Puska's belongings.

Ms Gillen said Mr Puska was on a six-bed ward at the time, and she advised that he be moved to a single room, for privacy.

Ms Gillen said Mr Puska was in his bed at the time, and hospital staff just moved him across the ward in the bed.

Cross examined by Mr Bowman, Ms Gillen accepted that gardai did not ask her if they could speak to any of Mr Puska's treating physicians.

She also said she had no understanding of Mr Puska's state of mind or medical circumstances.

The trial continues before Mr Justice Tony Hunt and a jury of nine men and three women.
Terrorist killer Haggarty repeats claim that his Special Branch handlers did not act on tip-offs

Forensic experts at the scene in north Belfast after Tommy English was shot dead in Octover 2000. Pic: Pacemaker

In his final day of evidence, a loyalist supergrass has again accused his RUC Special Branch handlers of not recording information he passed on that was linked to murders carried out by the UVF.

Gary Haggarty spent three days in the witness box being cross-examined about evidence he provided against James Stewart Smyth (57).

Smyth denies shooting dead workmen Eamon Fox (41) and Gary Convie (24) in May 1994.

They were on a building site at North Queen Street in Belfast when a terrorist opened up with a Sten machine-gun, killing them as they ate lunch in a car. Another man sitting in the back of the vehicle escaped injury.

Haggarty was yesterday questioned about an attack on senior UDA man Tommy English, later murdered by the UVF in 2000 during a feud.

Haggarty said he told his handlers Mark Haddock, Ronald Bowe and Darren Moore were responsible for the murder.

Mark Haddock

A previous court was told Haggarty had been recruited by the RUC as an informant after the UVF murder of Good Samaritan Sharon McKenna.

Ms McKenna was killed in January 1993 while visiting a Protestant pensioner at his Belfast home.

Operation Ballast, the Police Ombudsmans report into the outrage, named Informant 1, now known to be Haddock, as a key suspect. Haddock was arrested and questioned, but never charged.

Haggarty said he had no involvement in Ms McKennas murder, but was approached by Special Branch shortly afterwards and agreed to work for it.

In January 2010 Haggarty became an assisting offender, and admitted his role in hundreds of serious crimes, including five murders.

He served the required two years in prison under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement for pre-1998 offences.

For crimes committed after 1998, Haggarty received a 75% discount as an assisting offender despite the PPS deciding his evidence, without corroboration, would not be enough to meet the test for prosecution against 13 other suspects, including his two former Special Branch handlers, referred to in court as Handler A and B.

Among the murders he pleaded guilty to was that of John Harbinson in May 1997.

John Harbinson

He claimed Mr Harbinson was to be shot in the legs, but there was no intention to kill him.

On the night of the murder he said that, along with Haddock, Moore and Raymond McCord Jr, they abducted the victim from the Grove Taxis depot in north Belfast.

He was taken to an alleyway just yards from where Haggarty was living in Mount Vernon.

It was known locally as kneecap alley because so many so-called punishment attacks had taken place there.

Haggarty claimed while he and Haddock went to source a gun, Moore and McCord carried out a fatal assault on the victim.

He said Moore was jumping on him, while McCord was making a motion like he was kicking him.

Haggarty said: I turned Mr Harbinson onto his face in the recovery position. I maintain he was alive when I turned him over.

Defence barrister Michael Borrelli KC questioned how Haggarty had blood on him.

As I turned him, he coughed. He may have been dying. I cant say for certain.

He added: I told my handlers everything. They told me to get offside.

Both Haggarty and Haddock went on the run after the attack to a caravan in Portmuck in Co Antrim.

No one was ever charged with Mr Harbinsons murder. In November 1997 McCord was also murdered by the UVF.

Raymond McCord Junior

The Police Ombudsmans investigation, referred to multiple times during Smyths trial, found a number of informants had been involved in McCords murder.

Haggarty said: I definitely told them there was blood on Raymond McCords boots. I didnt play a role in the beating I didnt know he was dead.

On the night he said he stayed at the home of Billy McCartney, a loyalist life sentence prisoner, saying this was why there was a delay in calling his handlers.

Under questioning from Mr Borrelli, Haggarty was asked about pleading guilty to conspiracy to murder English.

He told the court he hit the UDA man with a bottle outside the Grove Tavern, but added if he had access to a gun he would have shot him.

During an earlier hearing Haggarty told the court he had previously observed at a railway line the test firing of the Sten gun used to murder Mr Fox and Mr Convie.

He claimed to have told his handlers about this and that an attack was being planned, but said he was not aware the workmen were to be the target until the morning of the shooting.

He also claimed to have told his handlers the location of Smyth, who was on the run after the murder of a man and attempted murder of his wife in Ballymena just weeks previously.

They knew where he was. He should have been immediately arrested, Haggarty told the court.

The defence claimed Haggarty named Smyth to protect Haddock and because he had been tasked with looking after the on-the-run loyalist, who was not part of his unit.

No, that wasnt the case, I gave his name because he perpetrated the shooting in North Queen Street, he responded.

When questioned about any animosity towards his former RUC handers, he replied: Special Branch doesnt come into my thoughts, I dont care about them.

He claimed: Special Branch routinely put names of people who werent involved down so it wouldnt lead back to those who did to throw suspicion away from those who did.

As both the defence and prosecution concluded their questioning of the former UVF man, Mr Justice OHara, who is hearing the case without a jury, said: Mr Haggarty, you can leave the witness box.

He replied thank you very much before being taken away.

The trial continues.
The 42-year-old worked as a health and wellbeing officer at Lagan College in south Belfast

Former Lagan College welfare officer Neil Beckett at Laganside Court in June. (Pic Colm Lenaghan)

A school welfare officer has been returned for trial charged with sexually assaulting 11 girls.

Neil Beckett is facing prosecution following an investigation into alleged offences spanning a period of more than four years.

The 42-year-old worked as a health and wellbeing officer at Lagan College in south Belfast.

Beckett, of Kilmore Village in Downpatrick, Co Down, is accused of sexual touching and sexual communication with a child, according to the charge sheet.

The allegations relate to 11 different girls and cover dates between September 2018 and February 2023.

A preliminary enquiry to establish if there is a prima facie case to answer was listed for hearing today at Belfast Magistrates Court.

The Courts Service confirmed later that Beckett has been committed for trial on a future date to be fixed.

He was granted continuing bail on conditions which include a ban on contact with anyone under the age of 16 unless approved by social services.

Beckett is also prohibited from contacting staff at Lagan College in relation to the case.

A previous court heard that he is currently on suspended leave.
The court heard gardai carried out an extensive investigation, and the incident was initially treated as attempted murder

Two men have been handed prison sentences for their roles in the discharge of a firearm in Dublin last November.

Brandon Kelly (18) of Lourdes Road, Maryland, Dublin 8 pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to having possession of a firearm and ammunition for an unlawful purpose on November 15, 2022, at Mercer House, Mercer Street, Dublin 2.

Jamie Byrne (26) of Oliver Bond House, Dublin 8, pleaded to one count of aiding and abetting another person in the reckless discharge of a firearm on the same date. The court heard that it is the State's case that Byrne knowingly assisted Kelly in leaving the scene after the firearm was discharged.

Detective Garda Joseph Hickey told Aoife McNickle, BL, prosecuting, that gardai received reports that a firearm had been discharged in the Mercer flat complex at 5 p.m. on the day in question.

The court heard gardai carried out an extensive investigation, and the incident was initially treated as attempted murder.

CCTV footage obtained by gardai showed that there had been an argument between a group of three men and two other males, one of whom is a minor, at 4.36 pm.

Kelly and Byrne were both in the area at this time and were seen by gardai with a third party who had been involved in the altercation at 4.53 pm. Byrne then got a motorbike and travelled with Kelly to the Cathedral Street area.

Both men returned to Mercer House a few minutes later. Kelly was then identified in the courtyard of the complex wielding the firearm and firing it. Witnesses told gardai they heard the shots and arguing. Byrne arrived shortly after the shots were fired at 4.58 p.m.

The two men then left the area on the motorbike. Det Gda Hickey said the incident escalated quickly in a short period of time, and it was a big shock to gardai the speed at which the firearm was accessed.

Gardai retrieved one spent shell and one live round from the complex. The firearm was not recovered, but Det Gda Hickey said it is believed to have been a hand pistol.

The injured party is a minor, and his parents didn't wish him to be part of the prosecution, the court heard. No victim impact statement was provided.

Both Kelly and Byrne were arrested on November 22 last and have been in custody since they were charged on November 23.

Kelly was interviewed by gardai, but nothing of evidential value was obtained. Byrne maintained he had no knowledge of the firearm during the interview.

Kelly has a number of previous convictions and received an 18-month suspended sentence on a robbery charge last November. Byrne has 32 previous convictions.

Det Gda Hickey agreed with Derek Cooney BL, defending Kelly, that his client was not involved in the initial altercation and was identified from CCTV. It was further accepted that it appeared Kelly was being directed by the third party.

The garda witness agreed with Dominic McGinn SC, defending Byrne, that his client was on the street outside when the shot was fired, and his role was to use the motorbike to take Kelly from the scene afterwards.

He also accepted that Byrne has an addiction to cannabis and has been making efforts to address this while in custody. He also agreed with Mr McGinn that Byrne's involvement was somewhat out of character.

Ms McNickle outlined to the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions views the possession of firearm charge in the upper sentencing range of ten to fourteen years as it was discharged in a public area.

Counsel for both men asked the court to take into consideration their guilty pleas, ages and addiction issues, which they said led to the men's involvement in criminality.

Mr Cooney said his client became involved with a negative peer group. He said Kelly was naive and vulnerable and would go along with any suggestions made to him.

He noted that Kelly was handed a suspended sentence 13 days before this offence was committed, and an application is due to be made for this sentence or a part of it to be activated.

Mr Cooney said his client has the support of his family and is doing well in custody.

Mr McGinn said Byrne's actions were out of character for him and he had a limited role in the incident.

Byrne has two children, and members of his family were present in court to support him. A number of references and a letter from Byrne were handed to the court. Mr McGinn said his client is taking steps to deal with his addiction issues and has already spent almost a year in custody. He asked the court to consider if this was enough to mark the severity of the offence.

Judge Martin Nolan said the discharge of the firearm was a reckless act, and both men became involved after a dispute.

He said he took into account the mitigating factors for both men, including their guilty pleas, their youth and that both have been doing well in custody.

Judge Nolan said the court could not have much confidence that Kelly would not re-offend in the future, but must hope for his rehabilitation.

He imposed a seven-year sentence on Kelly and said he had taken into account the suspended sentence. He added that if he were an older person, the court would not have been so kind.

Judge Nolan noted the limited involvement of Byrne in this serious crime and handed him a 27- month sentence. He directed that the sentences for both men are backdated to November 22 last, when they entered custody.
The Raineys are no strangers to the courts

Two convicted UVF drug dealing brothers are among 14 people to be sentenced at a later date for offences linked to the supply of cocaine in east Belfast.

Glenn and Mark Rainey are among the 14 due to be sentenced following a plea hearing at Belfast Crown Court which spanned more than five days.

Judge Paul Ramsey said today he needed time to consider the complex case and would sentence all the defendants in due course.

The court heard brothers Mark (43) and Glenn Rainey (37) and third defendant, Daniel Blaine, were considered to be at the top of the enterprise supplying cocaine to a network of street dealers.

The Raineys are no strangers to the courts.

In September last year, the east Belfast brothers were each handed four-year jail sentences, half to be served on licence, after they admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine and cannabis over a number of months in 2020.

At the time the PSNI issued a statement saying the sentences followed on from a Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF) investigation into suspected drugs criminality linked to the East Belfast UVF.

The pair lost an appeal against the sentences earlier this year, with Lord Justice Treacy saying text messages from Glenn Rainey reveal him boasting to his own brother about his success in selling cocaine and its financial rewards.

In the current case at Belfast Crown Court the pairs co-accused include Maggie Hutton, a former independent Assembly candidate who admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Maggie Hutton

The court heard the Rainey brothers and Lisburn man Baine were considered to be at the top of an enterprise supplying cocaine to dealers.

The prosecution's case is that following searches of Glenn Rainey's McArthur Court home in February 2018 and Mark Rainey's St Patrick Walk's address in October of that year, items were seized including four mobile phones.

When these phones were examined, a large numbers of WhatsApp messages were located which the Crown say linked most of the other defendants to drugs charges.

Due to these texts, a number of men and one women from Belfast were arrested and despite initial denials, they each admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine.

Darren Flynn (42) from Hornby Street admitted offending between December 1, 2017 and April 30, 2018. Dean Bailie (28) from Lisavon Drive between April 1, 2018 and October 31, 2018 and 36-year old Jonathan Watson (36) from Hill Street between October 1, 2018 and March 30, 2019.

Maggie Hutton (50) from Wolff Close admitted being concerned in the supply of the Class A drug between September 1, 2018 and March 21, 2019.

Neil Samuel Findlay (53) from Park Avenue admitted offending between June 23, 2017 and October 6, 2018 and Richard Ian Close (53) from Clonduff Drive between September 1, 2018 and March 22, 2019.

Darren Baine (34) from Yukon Street also entered a guilty plea to the same charge committed between December 1, 2017 and March 22, 2019, as did 28-year old Taylor Gray from Oval Court who admitted offending between March 1, 2018 and September 30, 2018.

Glenn Rainey is due to be sentenced on a single charge of being concerned in the supply of cocaine between January 26, 2017 and October 30, 2018.

A Crown prosecutor said the case against two other defendants  Andrew Crawford (31) from Cairndore Grange in Newtownards and 44-year old Simon Mooney from Hurst Park in Belfast  should be carefully considered.

The prosecutor revealed a significant amount of cocaine and money was located during a search of Close's home in March 2019, while there were WhatsApp messages indicating Mooney was prepared to resort to violence to recoup drug debts.

While both men have admitted being concerned in the supply of cocaine, Crawford also admitted possessing cocaine between September 1, 2018 and March 23, 2019 and possessing criminal property on March 22, 2019.

Judge Ramsey noted that despite their guilty pleas, a number of the defendants have told probation versions of events which contradict the Crown's case and their pleas.

This includes Daniel Baine's claim that he did not play a leading role in the drugs enterprise and was a bookkeeper for Mark Rainey, and Mark Rainey's claim that he was only asked a few times by friends if he could get cocaine for them.

The prosecutor told the Judge these claims to probation were not accepted by the Crown, and that both men had admitted a joint charge of being concerned in the supply of cocaine between September 1, 2018 and October 30, 2018.

She said Mark Rainey was involved in persistent commercial supply while Daniel Baine played a significant role in the enterprise with him as was evident by the text messages between them.

Regarding Glenn Rainey, the prosecutor said clearly he financially benefitted from the enterprise which included holidays to Spain and Thailand.

Daniel Baine (36), from Ballymacross Drive in Lisburn is also due to be sentenced for converting criminal property between June 1, 2017 and March 22, 2019 while Mark Rainey has admitted a total of 14 charges.

These include 10 separate charges of being concerned in the supply of cocaine between November 2017 and March 2019 as well as conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office.

The latter charge is linked to Samuel Taylor from Ravenscroft Avenue in Belfast who pleaded guilty to charge of being a public official in the Legal Services Agency and misconducting himself in a public office by using his office to obtain the personal data of a third person and disclose it to Mark Rainey on May 22, 2018.

Taylor (32) also admitted conspiracy to commit misconduct in a public office on August 6, 2018.

These charges relate to text messages between the two men where Rainey asked Taylor to provide him with personal information regarding individuals.

Judge Ramsey said he had taken into consideration defence submissions for all 14 defendants, many of which spoke of becoming involved due to their own addiction to cocaine and debts  as well as a delay in bringing the case to court.
Judge Berkeley said, It serves no services to society to put a woman like this into custody

A fifty-year-old vulnerable woman has been handed a five-year suspended sentence for holding 50k worth of cannabis in her home.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Annemarie Ruth (50) of Summerhill Parade, Dublin 1 pleaded guilty to possession of a controlled drug in the form of cannabis on February 24, 2021. She has four previous convictions, all dating back to 2009.

Passing sentence today, Judge Sarah Berkeley said, The accused comes before this court having been found in possession of 50k worth of cannabis.

Judge Berkeley said she would take into consideration the full admissions made by Ruth, the cooperation and that the accused was described as a vulnerable person. She noted that gardai were focused on Ruths then partner, and not her at the time of this offence.

The judge said the accused entered an early guilty plea and has shown remorse. She noted that Ruth has made attempts in the past to rehabilitate.

Judge Berkeley said, It serves no services to society to put a woman like this into custody.

She sentenced Ruth to five years in prison but suspended it in full for five years. She also placed Ruth under the supervision of the probation services for eighteen months and directed that she follow all their directions.

Garda Cillian Meyler told John Quirke BL, prosecuting, that gardai received information and obtained a search warrant for Ruths home. At 6.35 pm on the day in question, gardai arrived at the house and searched it. The accused was present and cooperated with gardai.

Gda Meyler said that cannabis was found in various locations throughout the house, with a total street value of 50,928. Ruth was arrested and brought for interview. The garda noted that Ruth was cooperative and made admissions. She said that she had been a heroin addict and that she wasnt supplying the cannabis but holding it for someone.

Gda Myler agreed with Sean Gillane SC, defending, that having been arrested, his client answered all questions put to her. The garda further agreed that Ruth was harmless, warm, vulnerable and had a longstanding history of addiction.

The garda agreed with counsel that Ruth was minding the drugs and that she had been given a small amount of drugs and cash to do so. He also added that it was Ruths then partner whom gardai was focused on at this time and not this accused.

Mr Gillane said his client had been in a destructive relationship at the time of this offence and had been hospitalised with a broken jaw.

Counsel said his client had worked as a cleaner but was unable to do so at present as she suffered from anxiety but hopes to return to work in the near future.

He said his client maintains good family support and had members of her family in court to support her. A handwritten letter from Ruth was handed into the court but not read aloud.

Mr Gillane asked the court to take into account that his client has no trappings of wealth, had entered a guilty plea at the first opportunity and was vulnerable at the time of this offence.
We are investigating this serious criminal act as attempted arson with intent to endanger life

An elderly person asleep in their bed in Belfast has been targeted after a lit firework was put through their front door.

Police said officers received a report of the incident at approximately 9.35pm on Tuesday night and said young people pushed the firework through the letterbox at the property in the Glasvey Court area of Twinbrook before running off.

Neighbourhood Policing Inspector White said: Thankfully, the firework did not fully ignite, but it did cause damage.

If this firework had exploded, the end result could have been catastrophic. As such, we are investigating this serious criminal act as attempted arson with intent to endanger life.

"Don't be fooled by their fancy packaging": Consultant Plastic Surgeon warns of the dangers of fireworks

Inspector White continued: Halloween is typically a very busy time of year for emergency services and it is not uncommon to see an increase in calls reporting a range of concerns.

Fireworks are dangerous. Their misuse can have devastating and even fatal consequences. Last nights unacceptable act was extremely traumatic for the vulnerable victim.

We are increasing police patrols in the area to deter anti-social behaviour across this Halloween period, but I would ask local parents and guardians  do you know where your children are and who they are with?

We are encouraging parents to speak to their young people about firework safety, and the consequences of their actions should they participate in illegal acts.

They could end up with a criminal record which may impact their future employment and travel prospects.

Police in Northern Ireland have asked that anyone with information contact them via 101.
Stanners was part of a five man team who kidnapped, tortured and murdered their arch rival Keane (36) in January 2003

Keane's associates are preparing to celebrate with a 'tonne' of booze

David Stanners was found dead in his cell

David 'Frog Eyes' Stanners (left) and Kieran Keane (right) with the celebratory post by one of Keane's associates

Pals of slain Limerick crime boss Kieran Keane are set to celebrate the death of his killer, David Stanners, who was found dead in his cell in Mountjoy Prison earlier today.

David Frog Eyes Stanners, from Moyross in Limerick, had served over 20 years of a life sentence for the brutal murder of rival Keane before he was found unresponsive when warders opened his cell door.

After news of his death emerged, some Keanes pals took to social media boasting about how they are delighted at Stanners passing saying it was their time to celebrate.

Just missing the tonne of champagne to be bought today the party is in the island field today, one post reads on Facebook, alongside a drinking glasses emoji.

With all my family thinking of you (words removed) Kieran may you rest now.

The celebratory post on Facebook

The message adds: Best Halloween ever Im delighted may the vermin rot, alongside a series of laughing faces emojis.

Now its finally our time to celebrate.

The message appears alongside a photo of bottles of various spirits lined up in a row.

After a number of comments were left on the post, it was no longer publicly accessible.

Meanwhile, prison officials have launched an investigation into Stanners death. At this early stage, it is suspected he died of natural causes late last night.

The 51-year-old was part of a five man team who kidnapped, tortured and murdered their arch rival Keane (36) in January 2003.

David Stanners was found dead in his cell

Kieran Keane was the brother of the leader of one of Limericks feuding gangs, Christy Keane.

Stanners, whose nickname was Frog Eyes, was seen by Keane's nephew Owen Treacy shooting his uncle in the head .

He also stabbed Treacy several times that night and left him for dead.

Kieran Keane was found with his hands tied behind his back and had been tortured before he died.

His heartbroken wife told the trial at the Central Criminal Court that his killers were "animals".

Stanners was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment in November, 2003 along with four other members of the much feared McCarthy/Dundon crime gang, Dessie Dundon, Christy Costello, Anthony Noddy McCarthy and James McCarthy.

The Irish Prison Service said a full investigation is now under way.

Kieran Keane

A full post mortem will be carried out to establish the exact cause of death.

Stanners was due to be freed from prison over the next couple of years.

He was regarded as one of the ringleaders of the McCarthy-Dundon gang and an extremely dangerous individual.

He claimed he was at home watching TV with his family when Kieran Keane was kidnapped and murdered.

Gardai regarded the imprisonment of Stanners and his cohorts as a major victory in the war against the Limerick criminal gangs at the time.

The Irish Prison Service said in a statement; "The IPS can confirm that there was a death of a person in custody in Mountjoy on October 25 and the next of kin have been notified.

"His death in custody will be investigated by the Irish Prison Service, The Inspector of Prisons and An Garda Siochana where circumstances warrant. The cause of death is determined by the Coroner's Office."
The Defence Forces bomb squad was called in after a suspicious device was discovered by gardai from the Limerick Crime Functional Area as they searched the field on Tuesday

The army carried out a controlled explosion during the operation. Stock image

A teenager has been arrested after an incident in Limerick where a controlled explosion was carried out in a field as gardai seized suspected firearms and ammunition in a crackdown on organised crime gangs.

The male teenage juvenile is being quizzed at a Garda station in the Limerick region today, gardai said, as they revealed that two other men have been charged after they were arrested as part of the same operation.

These two men are due to appear before Limerick District Court this morning, Thursday, October 26 at 10.30am.

The two other men who were arrested in Tuesdays operation are still being held under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Garda stations in Limerick.

The Defence Forces bomb squad was called in after a suspicious device was discovered by gardai from the Limerick Crime Functional Area as they searched the field on Tuesday.

A controlled explosion was carried out on the device that was later found to have been a viable explosive.

A total of eight people, including five men and three women, were arrested as gardai seized the weapons, as well as drugs and cash during a number of searches at locations in Limerick, Cork and Clare.

More than 11,310 in cash was seized as well as approximately 53,100 worth of suspected cocaine, 20,000 of suspected cannabis and 4,650 in suspected alprazolam and controlled medication tablets.

Four suspected firearms and ammunition have also been seized, gardai said yesterday. All evidence seized will be sent to Forensic Science Ireland for further examination.

Five men were arrested during the course of this operation for offences under provisions of the Criminal Law Act, 1997, and detained under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Garda stations in the Limerick region.

Gardai added: One man has been released from detention and charged with separate road traffic offences. He will appear before Limerick District Court this morning.

The other four men remain in custody.

Three women who were also arrested for offences contrary to the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 appeared before Limerick District Court yesterday.
Noah Ney, from Oklahoma, who stands just 4ft 9in in height, was jailed on Monday for the shooting in April of last year

A baby-faced gunman who was aged just 15 when he shot a five-year-old girl in the neck as part of a gang initiation has been sentenced to 50 years behind bars.

Noah Ney, from Oklahoma, who stands just 4ft 9in in height, was jailed on Monday for the shooting in April of last year in what a court heard was an initiation into the town's Hoover Crips gang.

Ney, who is now 16, admitted shooting the girl along with charges involving firearms, drugs, gangs, theft and assault

He was sentenced this week just two months after he escaped from a Tulsa juvenile detention centre where he had assaulted staff, flooded his cell and smeared faeces on the walls.

Noah is led away by cops

He was rearrested at gunpoint, three days after he absconded, outside a convenience store after a tipoff from the public.

:We came around the corner between us and Tulsa Police Department, got him surrounded, and were able to take him in,' said Sergeant Scott Streeter of the Tulsa County Sheriff's Office Warrants Unit.

I think he thought about running, he turned around but everyone was all sides of him so he laid down on the ground and gave up.

The court was told he knows the difference between right and wrong but has no amenability to treatment.

I have treatment records in a packet thicker than a dictionary showing treatment attempts that he rejected, by escaping or assaulting staff that were there to help him, said Assistant Tulsa County District Attorney Morgan Medders.

Ney already had a criminal record stretching back to his middle school years when he shot the five-year-old girl who had been playing inside her home in North Rockford Avenue.

Ney had driven by in a stolen car and fired a gun at the house, hitting her in the neck and shoulder.

"There were multiple people in the line of fire during the drive-by shooting, Medders told Tulsa District Court.

The five-year-old was transported to hospital by EMSA because of the severity of her injuries and a difference of an inch or two in the penetrating gunshot wounds to the child could have resulted in her death.

Ney was awaiting sentence for the shooting when he and another inmate scaled the fence of the Tulsa County Juvenile Justice Center and went on the run.

Neys aunt said he had been neglected his whole life, and the court heard that both Ney's parents have criminal records.

His father had been repeatedly imprisoned, while Ney's mother admitted her son shows cruelty to both people and animals but blamed herself for her son's behaviour.

The court was told that Ney's behaviour had deteriorated during placements with both his aunt and his grandmother.

A neighbour testified to Noah causing havoc in the neighbourhood by wearing gang colours and carrying guns and knives, and often pulling them on neighbours while threatening them, Medders said.

'While several extended family members appeared at the certification hearing, those same people have been available to Noah throughout his extensive juvenile history and that did not appear to make a difference.

Former neighbours of Ney's expressed relief at as Ney was sentenced to 50 years after admitting 12 counts involving firearms, drugs, gangs, theft and assault.

This might be the signal that more of our youth offenders need that if you commit the crime you'll do the time! wrote one on Facebook.

Is his mother going to be charged with neglect? added another.

One simply said: Old enough to do adult crimes.

His age shouldn't be taken into consideration when deciding his sentence.
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

Noting that China and the United States, as the world's two largest economies, account for more than a third of the global economy and nearly a quarter of the world's population, and bilateral trade accounts for about a fifth of the global total, Xi said the interests of both sides are closely intertwined.

Xi said that the achievements of China-U.S. relations have not come easily and should be cherished all the more.

China's policy toward the United States is consistent, which is mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, Xi said, adding that China will continue to work in this direction and hopes that the United States will work with China in the same direction.

Xi recalled his experience of visiting California and introduced China's green transition and relevant local development, pointing out that the sound development of China-U.S. relations requires pooling the strength of all sides.

The foundation of China-U.S. relations lies among the people, the hope is in the people, the future lies in the youth, and the vitality lies in sub-national areas, Xi said.

Xi noted that he highly values and supports exchanges across various sectors and sub-national cooperation between China and the United States, and expressed the hope that Newsom's visit will enhance mutual understanding and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the sound and steady development of China-U.S. relations.

China and the United States enjoy great potential for cooperation in the fields of promoting green development and addressing climate change. The two sides should strengthen cooperation in this aspect and make it a new highlight in the development of China-U.S. ties, said Xi.

Newsom said that over the past few decades, China has made remarkable achievements in development, especially in the field of new energy in recent years.

No other bilateral relationship is more important than the one between the United States and China, and the U.S.-China relationship is vital to the future of the United States and bears on the well-being of its people, Newsom said.

Newsom said he is willing to push California to strengthen exchanges with China and seek closer cooperation in fields such as climate change and new energy. California is willing to be China's long-term, stable and strong partner, he added.

Senior Chinese official Wang Yi was present at the meeting. 
Neville van der Westhuizen (41) is wanted in connection with the 2014 killings of Eoin O'Connor and Anthony Keegan

A senior garda investigator has told a South African court there is no evidence of an Irish mafia death threat against a man charged with the double murder of two Dublin men.

Dispositions from the Garda and an Irish prison officer were read out at the extradition hearing in Durbans Regional Court of Neville van der Westhuizen yesterday, South African news website News24 have revealed.

Van der Westhuizen is wanted in Ireland in connection with the 2014 killings of Eoin O'Connor and Anthony Keegan,

The remains of 32-year-old O'Connor and 33-year-old Keegan were found wrapped in plastic sheeting and buried in a shallow grave on Inchicup Island, Lough Sheelin, Co Meath on May 26, 2014, weeks after they were reported missing.

Both victims are believed to have been shot dead.

The pair were not regarded as serious criminals by gardai.

Eoin O'Connor and Anthony Keegan

It is alleged that van der Westhuizen fled to South Africa in 2014 in the wake of the killings.

In November, Interpol working with local police tracked Van der Westhuizen to a prison where he was serving a 15-year-sentence for a separate murder.

He is resisting an extradition request by gardai, claiming that he would be killed as soon as he lands in Ireland.

This week, he gave evidence in court urging magistrate, Kevin Bruorton, to deny the request, saying he had received death threats from the brothers of the deceased as well as the Irish Republican Army, which Van der Westhuizen referred to as a mafia.

The IRA is connected to the Irish judicial system and the police, he said, according to News24. They can kill. I'm concerned for my life.

He claimed he had received death threats and that, they said I would not get away with this [the double murder] and that they would hunt me down.

Prosecutor, advocate Navin Sewparsat presented two affidavits, deposed by senior law enforcement officials in Ireland, in a bid to challenge Van der Westhuizen's claims.

In the first affidavit, Sewparsat cited Garda Inspector Micheal Dorrigan, a senior investigating officer in the double-murder case against Van der Westhuizen.

In the affidavit, seen by News24, Dorrigan said: I say that, to the best of my knowledge and information, there is no link between the case, or the offence with which Mr Van der Westhuizen is charged, and the Irish Republican Army.

"I further say that there is no intelligence that Neville van der Westhuizen is under threat by the IRA," Dorrigan added.

Sewparsat then cited an affidavit by William Burke, an assistant principal officer with the Irish Prison System.

Sewparsat said Burke's affidavit mentioned that, if Van der Westhuizen was found guilty, he would be interviewed and granted an opportunity to share his security concerns, after which action could be taken.

"With due respect, I don't think you understand what you are talking about because you have never been to prison, Van der Westhuizen replied. Once you are in prison, it's a different story.

In a previous hearing, Van der Westhuizens lawyer, Ntando Cele, told Durban Regional Court he should not be extradited to stand trial in Ireland because of alleged threats to his life.

"My client is already serving a sentence in this country. It won't make any sense for him to be taken to another country to stand trial while he is still in our prison system," he said.

Secondly, my client has received death threats. He has been told that he would be executed as soon as he lands on Irish grounds.

"Those who have made threats against him say they have connections in the Irish prison system.

Eoin OConnor and Anthony Keegan went missing after Eoin borrowed his mothers car to travel to Ballyjamesduff in Co Cavan.

Before leaving Dublin, he is believed to have told a relative of his concerns over the visit.

When he failed to return home from the trip, his family raised the alarm.

The bodies were later found after a fisherman on the lake identified a smell coming from the tiny island.

The matter is expected back in court on Friday for arguments.
Rachel Gardiners family were warned she might not survive after her stroke in June last year, aged just 26

A young mum from Co Armagh who had a stroke two weeks after giving birth has said it robbed her of some precious time with her baby.

Rachel Gardiners family were warned she might not survive after her stroke in June last year, aged just 26.

After surviving her ordeal, the Lurgan woman is now sharing her story to back the Stroke Associations campaign to make people aware that stroke can happen to anyone of any age.

The charitys research - released to mark World Stroke Day on Sunday - reveals that over half of adults think strokes dont affect young people.

Yet one in four people can suffer a stroke at working age.

Rachel suffered her stroke when she was travelling home from a baby class with her daughter Charlotte.

Looking back at that day, she said it was a huge shock which changed her life instantly.

I had just become a new mum and was living on the crest of a wave with my gorgeous little girl and then out of the blue I had a stroke, said Rachel, who is a classroom assistant.

I was living a very normal and healthy lifestyle. I had my daughter on June 8, via an elective c-section and everything was fine with my health and my little girls.

I was having headaches the week before my stroke but with a new baby I put it down to tiredness as I was not sleeping well.

I had taken Charlotte to a baby sensory class and had a spasm at the top of my spine. I lost the power in my right arm and I instantly knew something wasn't right.

I remember saying to my mum, I cant put my seatbelt on, and my arm feels funny.

My mum checked the FAST symptoms but all was normal and the feeling came back into my arm.

Two hours later, Rachel collapsed at home and had a seizure.

Paramedics took her to Craigavon Area Hospital where it was confirmed it was a stroke.

My family were told there was a chance I wouldnt survive, so I was rushed to the Royal Victoria Belfast, Rachel continued.

I remember waking up in such a blur to be told, youve had a stroke, Rachel. They are the words no-one wants to hear.

Rachel feels she has missed out on some major milestones but not just hers, her daughters milestones too.

I never imagined I would have had a stroke so young, she said.

Its affected a lot of my relationships, as I didn't want to do anything or go anywhere because the fear of it happening again was too real.

I feel the time I missed with my daughter almost broke me, although she will never remember as she was two-weeks-old - it will always remain with me and the 'what ifs'.

Rachel said she still suffers a lot of the effects since her stroke, such as headaches, fatigue and nerve twitching, and will be on medication for the rest of her life.

If I could give any advice to anyone, it would be listen to your own body, if you don't feel right get seen by a doctor no matter how small your symptom is, she said.

It can happen to anyone, not just the elderly.

For more support on managing the effects of a stroke visit stroke.org.uk/worldstrokeday

You can also call the Stroke Helpline on 0303 3033 100.
Gardai have been seeking the publics help in locating Dylan Kiernan (13) and Kyle Kiernan (12)

An appeal for information on two boys missing from Co Meath for four days remains active today, a garda spokesperson said.

Gardai have been seeking help in locating Dylan Kiernan (13) and Kyle Kiernan (12) who were last seen on Monday at Belgard Road/Mayberry Road, in Tallaght, Dublin around 4pm.

They are not believed to be in the company of adults.

According to authorities, their family and gardai are very concerned for the well-being of both boys, who live in Kells, Co Meath.

Both boys have been described as 5ft in height, with slim builds and short brown hair.

A garda spokesperson said: Gardai are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of Dylan Kiernan, and Kyle Kiernan who are missing from their home in Kells, Co. Meath since Monday, October 23, 2023 at 6pm.

Dylan and Kyle were last seen at Belgard Road / Mayberry Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24, on Monday, October 23 at approximately 4pm, they added.

Gardai said Dylan and Kyle are both five feet in height with a slim build, and short brown hair.

When last seen, both Dylan and Kyle were wearing grey tracksuits, and black jackets.

An Garda Siochana and their family are concerned for the well-being of Dylan and Kyle and are urging members of the public with any information to reach out, a spokesperson said.

In an update this afternoon, a Garda spokesperson said the appeal remains active.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact Tallaght Garda Station on 01 666 6000, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station, they added.
In an update this afternoon, gardai said Dylan (13) and Kyle Kiernan (12) had been located safe and well

Two boys from Co Meath have been found four days after they went missing.

In an update this afternoon, gardai said Dylan (13) and Kyle Kiernan (12) had been located safe and well.

An Garda Siochana would like to thank the public and the media for their assistance, gardai said.

Gardai had been seeking help in locating the boys who were last seen on Monday at Belgard Road/Mayberry Road, in Tallaght, Dublin around 4pm.
The former RTE broadcaster was diagnosed with the condition in October 2021.

Charlie Bird at the base of Croagh Patrick ahead of the Climb with Charlie fundraiser in April 2022. Photo: Gerry Mooney.

Charlie Bird has revealed that he will be using a wheelchair from now on as he approaches the two-year anniversary of his motor neurone disease diagnosis (MND).

The former RTE broadcaster was diagnosed with the condition in October 2021 and has been regularly updating his social media followers about his struggles along the way.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, on Wednesday evening, Mr Bird told his followers that being wheelchair-bound wont stop him from helping others.

He wrote: Two years ago this week I got my diagnosis of Motor Neurone. Along with my lost voice, now I depend on a feeding tube, and from now on I will be using a wheelchair. But nothing is going to stop me helping groups who extend the hand of friendship while I have a breath in my body.

Two years ago this week I got my diagnosis of Motor Neurone. Along with my lost voice, now I depend on a feeding tube, and from now on I will be using a wheelchair. But nothing is going to stop me helping groups who extend the hand of friendship while I have a breath in my body.  Charlie Bird (@charliebird49) October 25, 2023

It comes after the 72-year-old announced that he is to be honoured by the community in Murrisk, the village in Co Mayo lying at the foot of Croagh Patrick.

He famously climbed Croagh Patrick in April 2022 for Climb with Charlie. The charity event raised more than 3.6m for the national suicide prevention charity Pieta House and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association.

A permanent home in Murrisk will be given to a stone to mark the success of Climb with Charlie.

In a social media clip with his dog Tiger, he said that his goal now is helping Elephant In The Room, a project organised by broadcaster and former rugby player Brent Pope.

It encourages people and organisations across the country to support mental health charities and address the elephant in the room by having open conversations about mental health.

"This great project is about mental health and raising awareness for people in dark places, he said.

Mr Bird said a sculpture of an elephant decorated and signed by U2 bass guitarist Adam Clayton raised more than 14,000 for Samaritans Ireland at auction and one signed by the Irish mens rugby team had raised more than 16,000.

His own elephant is also set to be auctioned off and was designed by Dublin artist Niall OLoughlin, who drew a picture of Mr Bird and Vicky Phelan together on the summit of Croagh Patrick ahead of Climb with Charlie.

My lovely elephant painted by Niall OLoughlin is a tribute to the work of the Samaritans, has an image of Vicky Phelan and is signed by President Michael D [Higgins].

"I would love if some corporation or person put in a big bid. Remember all funds raised go to Samaritans. On November 4, my elephant along with Samaritan volunteers will be greeted by the Lord Mayor of Dublin at the Mansion House.

"All my efforts now will focus on extending the hand of friendship to people in dark places. I love you all, he said.
After over 60 years of association with RTE, firstly on Tolka Row, aged 18, and over 30 years spent on Fair City I have a tinge of sadness bidding this farewell

Jim Bartley has friendships that were cemented on and off screen

Fair Citys Bela Doyle, one of the longest running and most loved characters on the show, has bid farewell to Carrigstown, with actor Jim Bartley announcing his retirement after almost 34 years.

Bartley joined the cast in 1990 and has been a regular on the show ever since. For a year before the character actually arrived on screen, Bela Doyle had a reputation as Carrigstowns Casanova, despite being married to Rita and being father to their six children: Helen, Yvonne, Jimmy, Darren, Suzanne and Louise.

Jim said today: After over 60 years of association with RTE, firstly on Tolka Row, aged 18, and over 30 years spent on Fair City I have a tinge of sadness bidding this farewell. The time has come to focus on my health.

The popular star has worked with RTE for nearly 60 years

"Id like to wish the whole team the very best of luck. To the cast and crew, in particular those who I have spent years working with, it was a joy going to work each day.

"My heritage goes back through the show, and all the way back to Tolka Row, RTEs first television soap opera, with many lifelong friendships and a lot of special memories created over the years.

Fair Citys Executive Producer, Brigie de Courcy, told us: Everyone at Fair City is sad to see Jim Bartley leave. He was already an iconic figure in Irish soap when he joined us, and his unforgettable performance as Bela Doyle has been a central part of Fair City for over 30 years. As the last remaining member of the Doyle clan, his exit marks a huge shift for Carrigstown.

"His presence will long be felt, both as a performer and as a kind and good-humoured mentor to many younger cast members through the years. I wish him the very best in his retirement.

Bartleys alter ego, Bela, became well known for his bed hopping and wandering hands with countless women falling under his spell through the years.

Bela Doyle

This led to many tangled affairs, including a secret love child with Barry O'Hanlon's girlfriend, Linda, but the baby tragically passed away.

As no one knew that he was the father, he couldnt openly grieve. Then there was a love triangle with Pauline, Leo Dowlings love interest and eventual wife. When Pauline chose Leo and married him, Bela ended up being Leo's best man. All love was not lost for Bela on their big day, however, as he had a tryst with Paulines bridesmaid, Nicola! As you do.

It wasnt all fun and games for the character though as tragedy struck many times as death and heartbreak landed on his doorstep regularly throughout the three decades.

The death of his beloved daughter, Helen, was most definitely the worst but he also had many volatile relationships with his wife, family and lovers.

Jim Bartley has friendships that were cemented on and off screen

His most enduring friendship was with unlikely pal Charlie Kelly who were joined at the hip. In the ultimate act of friendship, Charlie invited Bela to move in with him when Bela's kids had deserted him, and he had nowhere else to go.

Bela, Charlie and Cass Cassidy, the three musketeers, lived together for many years. As a final act of loyalty, Charlie left Bela his house and he, in turn, decided to pass on the kindness to Cass.

In a surprising twist, and in an effort to avoid a big tax bill, Bela decided to marry Cass. However, this led to him being an accidental bigamist, when Olwyn, Cass wife, turned up and revealed that they had never divorced!
Music Plus

with Winston Watusi watusi@thesun.co.nz

Way back when, the New Zealand punk scene was a small fragile thing. For all the braggadocio and swaggering fashion violations, anything that radical was going to struggle in a country locked in the past where independence, even in broadcasting music, was seen as a threat.

We forget how stifled New Zealand was under the likes of Muldoon. You needed, for instance, difficult special licences to import equipment needed for recording studios. The making and playing of music was kept under stern control.

Which is possibly why the few punk or post-punk bands that emerged  the distinction here is pretty negligible  are held in high esteem, even if their achievements were relatively small and brief.

Unrestful Movements was one of those bands; though, in truth, they were a few years late for the peak of the scene. Rotoruas Glen Wilson and Pam Curreen moved to the capital in 1982, and recruited Grenville Main and Tim Hunt. They were one of Wellingtons standout acts in 1983, the same year their two EPs, First Movement in E B and Are You A Fireman? were released on prestigious local label Jayrem.

Glen currently fronts Taurangas Dead Simple, a similarly post-punk band that plays several Unrestful Movement songs including their most well-known, Anti-Trend. Dead Simple bass player Lara Wilson takes up the story...

When Unrestful Movements chose to dis-band, they had money left from a gig in Gisborne. Tim and Grenville had left and the band members were Glen, Pamela and Garth Evans. Glen asked what they should do with the money? Should they go out for dinner? Pamela and Garth suggested recording the new material they had been working on.

That third EP was recorded by Nick Roughan from the Skeptics, in Wellington  but when Glen gave the demo to Jim Moss from Jayrem, he called it s... and said he would never release it. Possibly irking Jim was that he had requested a love song and Glens response was the tongue in cheek, Romantic Regurgitation. So no more record label.

Skipping ahead, Glen played mostly in cover bands before forming Dead Simple in 2010.

Then in 2012 Glen went to JB Hifi and discovered a copy of all three Unrestful Movement EPs including the s... one  on CD from Jayrem. I dont know whether to be happy, or angry because I wasnt asked, says Glen. But there is one good thing about it. Youll finally get to hear the third EP. I bought a copy, of course.

Now Dead Simple is touring, commemorating 40 years since Are you a Fireman?, playing songs from all three EPs. They even have former band members permission for the tour  and both Grenville and Tim will be at the Wellington show. Strengthening the connection, Lara still plays the bass guitar Pamela played  and several years ago Glen saw the Maton guitar from the Anti-Trend video for sale, and bought it back.

See them Saturday, November 4 at The Jam Factory with support from Tactical Chunny.

Hear Winstons latest playlist, specially curated by Glen and Lara Wilson of Dead Simple:

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3on6wpvEs54xTdiUsL1aqZ?si=5d679fd0621341b4
A council plan to introduce paid parking in New Zealands most popular beach town has been lashed with fierce opposition from businesses and residents.

A recent survey reveals 85 per cent are strongly against, saying it will kill the town, and be the beginning of the end.

Mount Maunganui is a year-round hotspot, and consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world.

Mount businesses gathered at a feisty face-off over breakfast on Wednesday, and didnt hold back airing their views to Tauranga City Council parking strategy manager Reece Wilkinson.

Paid parking along the beach fronts, down Mt Maunganuis main drag of boutique shopping and eateries, and in residential areas had been presented by Wilkinson in a draft plan in a council meeting last month  with aims to lock it in for this summer.

Why? was the question on everyones lips at the Wednesday meeting.

Locals Stuff spoke to say they believe it's pure money-grabbing on councils part, with no concern for the towns identity as a much-loved international tourist region.

Paid parking could generate revenue of $1.5m, according to the draft plan.

Wilkinson says that council is following in the footsteps Tauranga CBD, which already has paid parking.

This has been touted for one of the reasons the countrys fastest growing city has dead vibes in its city centre, with businesses moving out, and no visitors.

Jay Thomas, director, Saltwater - Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, says paid marking would kill the Mount and says council have not answered the question "why".

Paid parking will kill the Mount. Look what happened when they introduced it in Tauranga CBD  its dead, says Jay Thomas, who owns Saltwater, a bustling Mount seafood and oyster bar.

Hospitality in the Mount is way up on Tauranga because the Mount is buzzing, its where people and tourists come.

The draft plan saysit aims to reduce the amount of traffic circling the area to locate a carpark.

Business owners like Thomas say that's ridiculous.

Paid parking makes no sense  were not being given any credible reason. Its not going to solve traffic issues, its going to add to them. Im a resident too, so do all the residents have to hunt a park too?

It will be the beginning of the end, says businessman Keith Livingstone, who owns two Mount clothes stores and commercial properties, and has lived in the area all his life  one of Mounts most sought after residential streets. Grace Avenue, is named after his grandmother.

Summer at the Mount is something special in New Zealand that we should protect for people who live here and for people who come to experience it. Not just visitors from this country, but millions on cruise ships, backpackers, other tourists.

People are not going to browse or stop for a coffee if they have to pay for parking. We all work hard at our businesses and pay expensive rates, and council cant give a good reason for doing this apart from them making money.

Restaurant owner Matt Haywood told Stuff charging for parking is against the Mount vibe.

The beach is about the only thing left in New Zealand people enjoy for free. Paid meters at the beach is beyond ridiculous. Hospitality has already done it tough in the last years  so to put another barrier between people deciding to come and eat or shop is going to be a big problem for businesses, and for visitors.

Mount Backpackers owner Jo Veale says it's being rushed through for this summer.

It feels like the commissioners we havent voted for are rushing projects through, and not listening to us, which is the duty of a local council when we pay rates which have gone up. We work and live here, so they need to listen to us.

Tauranga is the only city in New Zealand without a democratically elected council government appointed commissioners have been in place since February 2021 and will remain until July 2024.

Wilkinson says that given the strong feedback from the community, it's now unlikely that there will be any changes this summer.

There are currently 2600 parking spaces in the area with 83 per cent of these having no time limits. The main street has a 60-minute parking limit and nearby areas have two-hour limits.

A recent survey by Mount Business Association revealed that 85 per cent of businesses in hospitality, retail and services are against the plan.

Asked by Stuff if council would shelve the plans given a clear majority are completely against it, Wilkinson says the focus will now be on getting feedback from the public.

A period of public consultation will follow in November, he says.

Restaurateur Matt Hayward thinks thats bull.....

They have already made up their minds, knowing this council, and eyed it as a revenue stream. But they are up against a passionate, hard-working lot here who love the Mount and want to keep it how it is for everyone to come and enjoy. We are not going to let this happen without a fight.

-Annemarie Quill/Stuff.
Police use of footage from high-tech automated number plate recognition cameras is being challenged in court by defendants.

At least 5000 cameras in two private networks provide footage of vehicle licence plates that police use to prosecute people.

At the heart of the unprecedented legal challenges is that this amounts to use of a tracking device without a warrant, in breach of search and surveillance laws. Another challenge is that it is in breach of the Privacy Act and the Bill of Rights.

There are at least two court cases, but suppressions mean details cannot be reported.

One argument is that the footage is obtained as part of a private contractual arrangement with a surveillance system paid for by the police.

The Criminal Bar Association says police's use of automated number plate recognition (ANPR) is just the "tip of the iceberg" of surveillance methods police were not being open about.

"We need to have a public conversation about the appropriate level of state surveillance in a free and democratic country," it says.

Police have had a partnership to tap into the private web-based ANPR network of Auckland company Auror for years, and also into the much smaller network of its rival SaferCities.

Six thousand staff can access the networks for routine non-tracking searches - that is, identifying the owner of a car in, say, a supermarket carpark or petrol station forecourt as a one-off - and 1000 of those have the extra authority to use the information for more invasive tracking of vehicles from place to place.

All in all, police officers use ANPR hundreds of times a day.

"It is an effective tool to support police in preventing and investigating crime in our communities and is regularly used to assist with serious investigations including homicides, assaults, and aggravated robberies," the police said in April.

Auror talked up its close relationships with various police forces, including in New Zealand, in its marketing of ANPR as a crime prevention tool to retailers including in Australia, the UK and US.

After police last year admitted misusing ANPR to track cars in a couple of Covid-19 cases, they did an internal audit of 350,000 uses.

This found five staff might have misused it, but that in the vast majority of cases police "can be trusted to use ANPR data responsibly".

Police use of ANPR was "not widely known and therefore barely debated", says president of the Criminal Bar Association Chris Wilkinson-Smith.

"The existence of some technologies are often only revealed retrospectively when they appear in criminal disclosure as cases are prepared for trial, ANPR as an example, this is only the tip of the iceberg.

"This hasn't been happening in the past 10 years."

Police databases, combined with AI, could "reveal the most intimate personal information".

"Police have been allowed to adopt technology under a broadly permissive regulatory background and dependent largely on internal supervision."

A column in the New Zealand Herald by Police Commissioner Andrew Coster in 2021 has failed to spark a continuing national conversation about surveillance, says Wilkinson-Smith.

"What are the appropriate boundaries for police intelligence collection and what trade-offs are we, as a community, prepared to make in the interests of safety?" Coster wrote.

Wilkinson-Smith says there was scepticism back then if police really wanted to engage, and though the barristers' association met with Coster in 2021, "our concerns about transparency and supervision remained".

Police say there has been one case where the admissibility of ANPR evidence has been challenged that has gone to a pre-trial hearing, and that the evidence has been ruled admissible.

"We are not able to comment further due to other ongoing court proceedings."

Auror has been also approached for comment.

-Phil Pennington/RNZ.
Israeli tanks and infantry raided the northern Gaza Strip in a predawn attack Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.





Produced by Xinhua Global Service
One of the world's most common banana varieties - Cavendish - is facing possible extinction, stoking concerns of a worldwide shortage.

A fungal disease called the Panama Disease TR4 is spreading to plantations across the world.

It is a big threat to the Cavendish banana, which about half of the world's population imports and eats.

Northland banana grower and Tropical Fruit Growers of New Zealand chair Hugh Rose told Morning Report anyone who was growing Cavendish bananas as a monopoly would be "doomed eventually, if they get that virus into their plantations".

"I don't think it's the last word for bananas."

He says banana varieties were spread across the world and they "mutate quite successfully in different soils and different conditions".

"Cavendish was developed - and I don't really know the history - in England as a banana. It's a laboratory-grown banana and each one is a clone and a direct replica of the other one.

"So when you plant out 100,000 trees, they're all identical and along comes the disease and wipes out the plantation. But no, never fear ... those experts in the science community will produce another variety."

Rose said "99.9 percent" of the banana produce in New Zealand was Cavendish.

He said he was a small collector. "I think about 40 odd different varieties. I'm always keen to get some more that's of edible bananas."

Cavendish varieties came from "various research stations and notably Israeli Cavendish, Honduran Cavendish, and of course the British".

However, the bananas grown in New Zealand were tastier, he said.

"Cavendish is grown mainly through a thick skin so it transports easily and [has] uniformity of appearance and size. Whereas the typical Auckland backyard banana is usually a variety known as Misi Luki ... and that has a much creamier texture to the flesh, much sweeter."

In Australia, the government has put out an alert on its website: "Panama TR4 is a serious banana disease that has been found on farms in Far North Queensland. It is caused by a fungus that lives in the soil. The fungus is not eradicable and can survive in the soil for decades without host plants.

"In some countries, it has had a devastating impact on industries and livelihoods. If not managed it has the potential to do the same in North Queensland."

-RNZ.
Returning paper roads to a Western Bay of Plenty marae is partially undoing a significant wrong.

Four paper roads owned by the Western Bay of Plenty District Council were given back to the Tawhitinui Marae in Whakamarama at a council meeting on Thursday.

The return of the land will aid the maraes papakainga project and enable them to build four extra affordable homes, bringing the total to 20.

Council chief executive John Holyoake said: Not only are we providing additional housing where its needed, were partially undoing a significant wrong.

Tawhitinui Marae chairperson Brian Nicholas told Local Democracy Reporting: Its good to have land back that was taken from us.

The marae, at 490 Old Highway Road, is one four that affiliates with Pirirakau hapu of Ngati Ranginui iwi.

After the battles of Pukehinahina and Te Ranga in 1864, 214,000 acres of land were confiscated under the New Zealand Settlements Act 1863.

Of this land, approximately 93,000 acres of land from the Te Puna stream to Nga Kuri a Wharei (Bowentown) were purchased by the Crown at two shillings five pence per acre.

The consent of the nine chiefs that signed the preliminary agreement did not adequately represent the interests of the hapu within the Te Puna-Katikati rohe and the purchase was strongly opposed by Pirirakau, according to kaimahere matua Corey Gaunts report to council.

Tawhitinui Marae chairperson Brian Nicholas and council strategic kaupapa Maori manager Chris Nepia. Photo: Alisha Evans/ SunLive.

Speaking after the meeting, Nicholas said 20 whanau were already signed up for a home and the earthworks begin on Monday.

Our people struggle, it's just so hard to get into housing.

The 2018 census showed 29.8 percent of people who affiliate to Ngati Ranginui own their own home.

The papakainga range from two to four bedrooms and would be next to the marae.

It's going bring people back to the marae and we need that," said Nicholas.

That's a real positive, the marae is kept warm.

Another positive was the approach the council had taken to returning the land, said Nicholas.

Previously it has been in the too hard basket and the marae and council had had numerous meeting over the years, he said.

After a number of meetings, probably too many meetings, we actually start to see something physical, which is the exciting bit.

An overview of the marae. The land returned is marked A B C and D. Photo: WBOPDC.

The Tawhitinui Marae Trust secured $2.5 million of Whai Kainga Whai Oranga funding from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development. This would enable them to build the infrastructure required for the homes.

Whai Kainga Whai Oranga is a four-year, $730 million commitment to speed up the delivery of Maori-led housing.

Councillor Don Thwaites said: Occasionally good things happen here at council and progress happens and this is one of those days.

Mayor James Denyer said it was a "special moment" to support the need for more houses and return of the land to tangata whenua.

He said it was unlikely the paper roads would have been able to be used for the purpose of which they were taken.

Councillor Grant Dally said he hoped the change in government wouldnt affect initiatives like Whai Kainga Whai Oranga.

Thwaites said he was looking forward to the ribbon cutting ceremony at the marae when the papakainga were finished.

Nicholas didnt give a timeframe for when the homes would be completed, but said they wanted to get their people in there as soon as possible.

Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air.
Power outages and a mysterious loud bang late at night may have left some residents in Te Puna wondering what was going on.

A SunLive reader has emailed in photos of a damaged car in Waitui Reserve in Te Puna.

She says she was out walking her dog when she saw the car.

I was talking to one of my neighbours and he said it looks like the car has been dumped after hitting a power pole further up the road.

Apparently the crash happened around 11pm and the pole was down across the road, blocking some peoples access to their driveways.

"The number plate on the car is a bit of a laugh. It says "Hello officer, put it on my tab" on the border of the plate."

The reader says the crash reports correspond with the same time that the power went out in their neighbourhood.

I heard a loud noise around that time and the dog was going nuts. It all lines up when I think about it.

A police spokesperson says they were called to a single-vehicle crash on the corner of Snodgrass Road and Newham Road shortly before 11pm.

Both lanes were blocked at the time of the crash, but have since cleared.

There are no reports of any injuries.

Powerco also reports that power is now back in the area.

"A total of 393 Te Puna customers lost power just after 11pm last night after a vehicle collided with a power pole," says a Powerco spokesperson.

"Power was progressively restored to customers during the night, with all customers power back on by 6.55am today."
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The Costa Press Club held its October meeting this week in the city of Malaga, which is in the midst of events commemorating the 50th anniversary of the death of Picasso, including a special exhibition in the museum attached to the artists birthplace in the Plaza de la Merced.

Entitled La Imagen de Picasso this exhibition gives a fascinating insight into how he has been portrayed over the years in every form of media from photos to newspaper articles, videos, sculptures, cartoons and comments on social media.

Karl Smallman

The museum invited members of the Costa Press Club to a private guided tour, and they were interested to hear, for example, about the significance of the portrayal of Picasso in the Spanish media even while he was in exile from Francos Spain: unlike many other artists and intellectuals, he was just too famous and revered for the media to be banned from mentioning him.

Members then adjourned to a nearby and renowned restaurant, Eme de Mariano, for a convivial and traditional Malaga dinner to round off the evening.

Costa Press Club

Founded in 2002, the Costa Press Club is a fully recognised and accredited association under Spanish law, providing members with a unique social and professional forum. Meetings are held in a variety of venues on average every two months, normally with guest speakers. Club membership is open to anyone with a background in journalism or media content provision, including print newspapers and magazines, online digital, photography, television, radio, multimedia and social media.
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Two Spanish navy ships will be docked in the Port of Malaga and open their decks to those interested in having a sneak peek inside on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 October.

The minehunters Segura and Sellan, which sweep the seas searching for explosive devices, can be visited on Friday between 5-7pm and on Saturday between 10am and 1pm.

The Segura and Sella are captained by Lieutenant Commanders Angel Diez Nunez and Enrique Felipe Garcia and each of the ships is crewed by 45 sailors, specially trained to detecting and disable explosive devices in the sea.
A poster welcoming the heads of government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) countries is displayed in Bishkek, capital of Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Cao Yang)

China stands ready to work with Kyrgyzstan to build a stronger, more dynamic and effective community of a shared future with Kyrgyzstan to better benefit the two peoples.

BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- On the uppermost floor of the Kyrgyz State Historical Museum in Bishkek lies a captivating exhibition showcasing an array of state gifts to Kyrgyzstan. Among them are a coral-red porcelain vase adorned with gold dragons, a gilt bronze Ruyi scepter, a masterpiece of traditional brushwork and others.

These Chinese gifts displayed in one of the most important museums in Central Asia bespeak the good neighborliness and close interactions between China and Kyrgyzstan, which are being further solidified and enlivened by Chinese Premier Li Qiang's ongoing official visit to the Central Asian country.

On Wednesday, the second day of his stay in Bishkek, Li met respectively with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov and President Sadyr Japarov. During his meeting with the Kyrgyz president, the Chinese premier said China stands ready to work with Kyrgyzstan to build a stronger, more dynamic and effective community of a shared future with Kyrgyzstan to better benefit the two peoples.

The meetings took place some five months after the two countries lifted bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era, pushing their diplomatic relationship to its best in a 31-year-long journey.

China-Kyrgyzstan relations have maintained high-level development in recent years, said Li during his meeting with the Kyrgyz prime minister.



Echoing Li, Japarov said 2023 is a "fruitful" year for Kyrgyzstan-China relations.

In his meeting with the Chinese premier, the Kyrgyz president also said bilateral relations have maintained a strong momentum of development.

Data showed that in 2022, trade volume between China and Kyrgyzstan reached a record high of 15.5 billion U.S. dollars, up 105.6 percent year-on-year. By the first quarter of 2023, China had invested 29.35 million dollars in Kyrgyzstan, becoming the second largest source of investment, the largest trading partner and the largest source of imports for Kyrgyzstan.

"Over the past 10 years, the main investment partner of Kyrgyzstan has been China, that is, in general, 33 percent of the attracted investments came from China," Zhalyn Zheenaliev, deputy director of the National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic, told Xinhua in a recent interview.

This aerial photo taken on Oct. 27, 2020 shows the construction site of the second phase of the north-south highway in Kyrgyzstan. (China Road & Bridge Corporation/Handout via Xinhua)

Kyrgyzstan-China relations have been developing intensively in recent decades and today they are characterized as strategic, said Zheenaliev.

China and Kyrgyzstan share a genuine fraternal good-neighborly relationship and Sino-Kyrgyz cooperation is not bound by any agreement, said Igor Shestakov, a Kyrgyz political scientist.

In the two rounds of high-level exchanges on Wednesday forenoon between Li and Kyrgyz leaders, the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a key project under Belt and Road cooperation, was repeatedly brought up.



During the meeting with his Kyrgyz counterpart, the Chinese premier called for speeding up the construction of key projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. Hours later, in his meeting with the Kyrgyz president, he called on both countries to work for an early start of the construction of the railway.

In reply, the prime minister made it clear that Kyrgyzstan is willing to work with China to deepen Belt and Road cooperation and speed up the construction of the railway. The Kyrgyz president said his country stands ready to promote Belt and Road cooperation with China.

These appeals and pledges bear great significance as they came roughly a week after the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation was held in Beijing celebrating the first golden decade of the Belt and Road Initiative, during which China announced it would work with all parties involved to usher Belt and Road cooperation into a new stage of high-quality development.

In September 2022, China, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation on the Kyrgyz section of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, making significant headway in the construction of a transport corridor in the Eurasian continent that will enhance interconnectivity while enabling an economic breakthrough for Central Asian countries. Preparations for the railway have already begun.

For Zheenaliev, the railway is of strategic importance to Kyrgyzstan.

"The railway branch in the country is not developed, and the construction of this railway will allow Kyrgyzstan to get out of the railway dead end and reach a new level of logistics and transportation," he said.

"Central Asia is located along the ancient Silk Road, and all countries in the region have participated in Belt and Road cooperation in one way or another," said Kubanychbek Taabaldiev, a Kyrgyz political scientist and professor of international relations at Bishkek-located Ala-Too International University.

The China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway is indisputable evidence that China and Central Asia want to jointly improve infrastructure along the ancient Silk Road, Taabaldiev told Xinhua. "With the opening of this railway, regional countries will all have the opportunity to reduce the time of cross-border cargo transport."


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Veteran, N.Y.  A 25-year-old man was killed Thursday when he lost control of his pickup truck after it was hit by another vehicle, leading his truck to collide with an oncoming semitruck in Chemung County, troopers said.

The three-vehicle crash happened at about 8:20 a.m. on Route 13 in the town of Veteran, southwest of Ithaca.

Police did not release the name of the man killed but said he was a 25-year-old from Pine Valley.

The man was driving a 2019 Chevy Silverado pulling an open trailer with lawn equipment north on Route 13 when he started to merge left because the right lane was ending, troopers said.

A 2016 Ford Fusion driven by Juria S. Vaness, 41, of Ithaca, was speeding up to get around the merging pickup when it hit the trailer and the back of the pickup, troopers said.

That caused the pickup driver to lose control. His vehicle went into the southbound lane colliding with a 2018 Freightliner semitruck driven by Jeremy Sobles, 33, of Skaneateles. The semitruck was hauling bagged concrete on an open trailer.

The 25-year-old man was declared dead at the scene.

Vaness was transported by helicopter to Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania. Vaness is in stable condition, troopers said.

Sobles was checked by medics on the scene and released.

The investigation is ongoing.
Pulaski, N.Y.  The fourth day of the Jordan Brooks murder trial brought tears from Anthony Waldron as well as a witness.

Jordan, 17, died from sepsis and malnutrition in May 2021, authorities say. He weighed only 55 pounds when he died, an average weight for a kid half his age. He had open, bleeding sores, investigators reported.

His mother, Lisa Waldron, 43, was sentenced to 20 years in prison this past month after pleading guilty to manslaughter and assault.
Pulaski, N.Y. -- Jordan Brooks looked thin and frail, his upper body position had deteriorated and he had sores on his legs that chickens pecked at while he sat outside his home.

Thats what Clarissa Devine -- a teaching assistant for Jordan -- remembers on the day of an at-home-visit she made to see Jordan. It was May 2020, and the schools were on lockdown and she missed him.
BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov called upon the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states to speed up the creation of the SCO Development Bank and Development Fund on Thursday.

"The creation of the SCO Development Bank and Development Fund has been discussed for a long time," Japarov said during the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States.

"These structures, in our vision, help facilitate the implementation of joint projects and would promote a gradual increase in the share of national currencies in mutual settlements between SCO member states," he explained.

Japarov expressed hope that SCO members would reach a consensus on this issue.

He believes that one of the critical issues within the current meeting is the development of economic cooperation among SCO members.

"It is important to continue joint work to strengthen cooperation in the fields of trade, production, energy, transport, investment, finance, agriculture, customs, telecommunications and other areas of mutual interest, as well as in the development of artificial intelligence technologies," Japarov said. 
Para leer este articulo en espanol, presione aqui.

Today would have been Brexialees 12th birthday.

Rather than celebrating with cake and candles, her mother, Brenlee Ortiz, sits in a makeshift radio studio in a trailer in East Syracuse. She dons a long sleeve shirt adorned with a selfie of her smiling daughter, a bright child whose life was cut short in January in a drive-by shooting meant for someone else.

Ortiz is nervous when she arrives. Its a rainy Saturday afternoon. She admits she almost didnt get out of bed today. But shes here anyways, on air to talk about the way her daughter lived, not how she died.

For an hour, Ortiz talks with Fanny Villarreal, the host of Nosotros Tu Voz Latino, one of the few Spanish-language radio shows in Central New York. By the end of their conversation, shes at ease sharing her daughters story. She closes with a message: To live life the Brexi way. Wake up with a smile, and keep that smile, no matter what happens.

For 30 years, Nosotros, Tu Voz Latino (Nosotros, Your Latino Voice) has been a pillar in Syracuses Latino community. The bilingual radio show provides a platform for community members like Ortiz to share their stores with friendly hosts in their native tongue. The show also provides helpful information like how to get a job or where English classes are being held.

Inside the room where it happens, ceiling tiles and patches of carpet are missing. They play music on a pair of CD players. One of the stereos has note from last year: This side doesnt work. Hosts have to explain to guests that the state of the worn out trailer is out of their control. But they make it work because they enjoy it. Because its important.

When Villarreal started the show in 1993, it filled a void she felt after moving to Syracuse from Peru, she said. There were no newspapers or television programs that catered to Latinosthus the idea for a new radio show was born.

The radio is an opportunity to be like a bridge between the Latino community and the community at large, said Villarreal. So, we can provide information both ways.

In her early days, Villarreal used the show as a way to force Time Warner Cable to listen to the areas Latino population. Time Warner (now Spectrum) didnt offer Spanish-language channels in the area. So Villarreal told listeners to call the companys 1-800 number and ask for Spanish TV.

I said you call 100 times if you have to. Everybody, 100 times. If there will be 10 people calling, 1,000 phone calls. And thats when they were paying attention to us, said Villarreal.

Those calls worked. Spanish-language channels were added to the cable service. Its one of the shows biggest accomplishments, said Villarreal.

Nosotros is a combination of Villarreals two favorite things: music and talking. On any given Saturday, youll find her dancing her heart out to whatever salsa or merengue song shes playing.

In its early years, Nosotros aired two hours on Saturday mornings. It was all they could afford. Villarreal paid out of pocket, she said. Organizing those two hours was hard, since everyone wanted to have their voice on air.

I think the most important lesson was how to distribute the time to all these people who wanted to have an opportunity to do radio for a lot of different reasons, Villarreal said. Because they have experience, because they have this potential great program idea.

Today, the show hits airwaves on Friday, Saturday and Sunday with four different hostsJhansi Castro, Ofelia Anamaria, Carlos Santiago and Villarreal.

Castro kicks the weekend off with a preview of events happening in the area. He often phones in Latino business owners to talk about events theyre hosting and recaps major sporting events. He invites local politicians, like Rita Paniagua, to speak during his segment.

Saturday afternoons are a family affair. Sisters Villarreal and Anamaria host two hours each. Villarreal focuses on positivity and finding happiness. Her sister provides educational content and chats up with local artists. On Sundays, Santiago closes out the weekend with motivational talks aimed at a younger audience.

Fanny Villarreal makes keeps an eye on the CD stereo to ensure a smooth transition to the next song.Tania Ortiz

All the hosts volunteer their time. Its a few hours every week. Its something that you have to enjoy doing, said Santiago.

When Santiago first joined Nosotros, he wanted to help the Latino community and provide them with information they may need in the long run, he said. It became a way for him to build a relationship with his community.

Because of the outdated technology, Villarreal and Anamaria lug bags of CDs from their personal collections every weekend to the WVOA station. The hosts manually change the CDs and keep track of when a song ends to smoothly transition to the next.

Castro and Santiago work around the archaic technology by connecting their laptops to the sound system.

Buenas tardes!!! Feliz Jueves!! Por favor ayudenme a darle la mas cordial Bienvenida a Carlos mas conocido como los a... Posted by Nosotros Radio, Inc. Tu Voz Latina / Your Latino Voice on Thursday, August 3, 2023

Despite the decline of radio over the past few years, Nosotros maintains a group of core listeners. To promote their show, they use word of mouthjust as they did in the beginningin addition to social media and their annual gala during Latino Heritage Month.

No one expected Nosotros to reach 30 years, not even Villarreal. When Anamaria first heard her sisters idea, she thought it was just for fun, nothing too serious.

Im happy and honored to be a part of something that has been around for that long. Im only 37 years old, said Castro. Even though Im not from here, this is home now. So just to be part of something that has been around for a long time, Im honored to be a part of it. Just happy to be there, happy to be here.

Villarreal, a mother of two, considers the radio show her first born. Shes grateful for the experiences over the past 30 years and isnt really worried about whats next for Nosotros.

When you do what you do with love, you really dont think about the years that pass or the years that will come, she said. You just keep doing it with love. When you do things with love, everything goes well. And thats what we are doing.

TO LISTEN: Fridays 8-10 p.m., Saturdays 3-7 p.m., Sundays 4-6 p.m. on WVOA 106.7 FM or online at WVOARadio.com
Quirks Players, the student theatre troupe at Fultons G. Ray Bodley High School, will present Sherman Sergel and Reginal Roses classic drama Twelve Angry Jurors for their fall, 2023 production.

Based on the Emmy award winning television movie by Reginald Rose and adapted by Sherman Sergel, the show tells the story of a group of jurors who are deliberating a murder case to determine if a 19-year-old boy is guilty of killing his father. The case appears to be open and shut with a murder conviction almost certain.

As the discussion begins, one lone juror raises important points and forces the jury to take a closer look at the evidence that was presented during the trial. She reminds everyone that the judge stated if there is a reasonable doubt, the young man must be found not guilty. The discussion gets heated at times and tempers rise.

The show highlights the importance of our countrys legal system and about presuming ones innocence until proven guilty. It also emphasizes the importance of serving on a jury and the significance a jury plays in our democracy.

Performances will be 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 27 and 28 in the high school auditorium, 6 William Gillard Drive, Fulton.

Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $10 for senior citizens and children younger than 12. Advanced sale tickets are available to purchase online (password is JURORS) or may be purchased at the door. All seating is general admission.

Twelve Angry Jurors is presented through special arrangement with Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois.

Cast

Judge  Skyler Perkins

Guard  Kelci Watkins

Juror #1  Dawson Krause

Juror #2  Lilly Cunningham

Juror #3  Wyatt Tarbe

Juror #4  Kara Barrett

Juror #5  Gracie Parry

Juror #6  Valerie Nichols

Juror #7  Niyah Humphrey

Juror #8  Ashley Taplin

Juror #9  Evan Rothrock

Juror #10  Jayce Wornick

Juror #11  Chloe Close

Juror #12  Hayden Whitney

Stage Crew

Mara Davis

Deverick Reidell

Alejandro Rodriguez

Camren Rothrock

Penelope Taylor

Adults Involved

Producer  Mr. Tom Briggs

Director  Mr. Rob Lescarbeau

Set Construction Mr. Rob Lescarbeau, Mr. Nick Duval

Lighting Design  Mr. Tim Wilson

Sound Design  Mr. Corey Hobin  Hobin Sound

Costumes  Mrs. Debbie Ritchey  CNY Costumes

Properties  Mrs. Natalie Lewin

Production Assistant  Dr. Doreen Kelly

See a list of other schools and the plays they plan to perform over the next several weeks. This and much more coverage of Central New York high schools can be found here.

Contact Brenda Duncan anytime: 315-470-2265 | Email | Twitter
ArtRage Gallery, located at 505 Hawley Avenue, has a rich history of progress. October marked the 15th anniversary of the space, a place that is dedicated to promoting social justice and activism through art. For over a decade, the gallery has given a voice to the voiceless and encouraged critical thinking in the Syracuse community.

To celebrate this milestone, I have compiled 15 Cheers for 15 Years - a list that highlights five of the gallerys accomplishments and ten more goals it is striving to achieve in the future.

What Theyve Achieved:

1. Continued Progress and Determination: ArtRage consistently supports artists who challenge societal norms, from its inaugural exhibition, Combat Paper: Veterans Reclaiming Their Lives Through Art, to the current exhibition, Stories My Father Told Me: Memories of a Childhood in Syria and Lebanon by Helen Zughaib.

2. 77 Exhibitions: Over the years, ArtRage has showcased a total of 77 exhibitions, featuring five artists per season, (with an exceptional seven-exhibition season in 2008.) The gallery has amplified voices and shared stories from over 70 groups and individuals.

3. Over 200 Community Projects: In addition to exhibitions, ArtRage Gallery actively engages with the Syracuse community by hosting various events, from book signings to bike rides, and promoting visibility and awareness of other events outside the physical space.

4. Awards and Recognition: ArtRage is proud to have received numerous awards and recognitions for its work, most recently being named one of the seven best galleries in New York State by Best Things New York.

5. Support for CNY Artists and the CNY community: ArtRage is known for supporting local artists and curating artwork about local subject matter. Most recently, British photographer Mahtab Hussain, whose work will soon grace the gallery, completed a two-week residency in Syracuse, photographing Muslim Americans throughout the city. Following, Mahtab Hussains exhibition will be work by Syracuse based artist Sofia Luz Perez, who recently graduated with a BFA in Studio Art from SUNY Oswego.

Where Theyre Headed:

6. Upcoming Exhibition: The next exhibition at ArtRage, titled Forest for Trees, is a literary landscape that challenges viewers to interpret their relationship with their surroundings. It will be presented by artist William Mazza, who was a collective member of Syracuses Altered Space gallery from 1991-96. The exhibit will run from November 11, 2023 to January 13, 2024.

7. 2024: In addition to Forest for Trees, the gallery will host three more shows this season: Muslims in America by Mahtab Hussain, My Shadow is my Teacher by Sofia Luz Perez, and I Own This Stolen Land by Ben Altman.

8. ArtRages Roof Renovation: After purchasing the building at 505 Hawley Ave in 2021, in 2022 ArtRage got a much-needed new roof that will support the weight of solar panels and provides substantial insulation, increasing the buildings energy efficiency.

9. ArtRages Interior Renovations: During the summer of 2023, interior renovations were made that included enhanced restroom accessibility and installation of plywood behind gallery walls for better exhibit support. Improved interior lighting will be coming soon.

10. ArtRages Building Exterior: Masonry repairs and a new coat of paint will seal up the buildings exterior.

11. ArtRages New Vestibule: The most visually noticeable change to the space will be the new glass new vestibule with automatic doors, and a modern black and white facade including a back-lit ArtRage sign. New storefront windows will provide improved insulation.

Rendering of renovations at ArtRage Gallery scheduled to occur in 2024.ArtRage Gallery

12. ArtRages Storm Runoff Diversion: The gallerys Save The Rain plan involves diverting rainwater from the roof and replacing the current sidewalk along the side of the building with permeable pavement, reducing moisture along the buildings exterior and preventing overflow in Onondaga Lake.

13. ArtRages HVAC Upgrade: To enhance energy efficiency and sustainability, the gallery will install new electric heating pumps rather than a gas furnace. This will also allow for better cooling during the summer months.

14. ArtRages Solar Panels: The gallery will complete its sustainability model with the installation of solar panels on the roof, making the space carbon-free.

15. Fundraising Update: The completion of the above-listed projects is possible thanks to the support of many donors and benefactors. ArtRage has received capital improvement grants from the New York State Council on the Arts, the Central New York Community Foundation and the Dorothy and Marshall M. Reisman Foundation. Many community members have donated and pledged generous gifts to the project. ArtRage is excited to share that over 80% of the funding for the building renovations has been acquired, and renovations will continue this summer.

As this list demonstrates, ArtRage Gallery has more than just an anniversary to celebrate. With upcoming exhibitions to brighten the winter months and eco-friendly building updates coming this summer, its clear that the past 15 years are just the beginning of something special.

Jeannie Jedlicka is a graduate student in the Goldring Arts Journalism program at Syracuse Universitys Newhouse School of Public Communications.
Dont give up the leaf-peeping hunt yet: There are still plenty of places in Upstate New York to catch glorious autumnal colors.

As the end of October rapidly approaches, peak fall foliage is abloom in Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley. The seventh 2023 fall foliage report from I LOVE NY, the states tourism website, shows glorious fall colors also remain in parts of Central New York and the Capital-Saratoga region.

Trained spotters expect Brighton, Rochester, Hudson, Saratoga Springs and Niagara Falls State Park to be great spots for fall fanatics to visit this weekend.

I LOVE NYs fall foliage forecast for the week of Oct. 15 to Oct. 31, 2023.Provided: I LOVE NY

Here are the color change predictions around Upstate New York for the week of Oct. 25 to Oct. 31, 2023:

Finger Lakes

Auburn: 95%, peak

Elmira 85%, peak

Rochester: 95%, peak

Brighton: 70%, peak

Bristol: 90%, peak

Rushville: 50%, near peak

Honeoye, Canandaigua and Victor: Past peak

Trumansburg and Ithaca: Peak or just past peak

Lyons: 75%, peak

Penn Yan: 70%, peak

Watkins Glen: 75%, peak

Upper Onondaga Park, Syracuse: 70%, near peak

Geneseo: 65%, near peak

Corning, Hammondsport, Hornell and Bath: 75%, near peak

Greek Peak Mountain Resort, Cortland: 75%, past peak

Hudson Valley

Hudson: 90%, peak

Highland: 80%, peak

Wappingers Falls: 70%, peak

Beacon and Fishkill: 60%, near peak

Garrison: Near peak

Castle Rock State Park: Near

Cold Spring: 50%

Taconic State Parkway and nearby roads: 75%

Central New York

Fonda: 80%, peak

Utica: 65-70%, peak

Cazenovia: 90%, peak

Oneida: Past peak

Middleburgh: 75%, peak

Herkimer: 70%, midpoint to near peak

Binghamton: 85%, past peak

Norwich: 100%, past peak

Cooperstown: 80&, past peak

Capital-Saratoga

Saratoga Springs: 70%, peak

Cohoes: 80%, peak to slightly past peak

Thacher State Park, Voorheesville: 85%, peak to slightly past peak

Western and southern Rensselaer County: 75-85% transition, peak to slightly past

Adirondacks

Ticonderoga: Peak

Crown Point: Peak, past peak

Lake George: 100%, past peak

Queensbury: 100%, past peak

Catskills

Greene County: Mostly past peak

Highland: 80%, peak

Liberty: 75%, slightly past peak

Forestburgh: 95%, past peak

Delhi, Bloomville and Hamden: 90%, past peak

Deposit and Downsville: Past peak

Greater Niagara

Niagara Falls State Park: 80%, peak

Lewiston: 75%, near peak

Albion: 80%, peak

Batavia: 65%, peak

Letchworth State Park, Castile: 90%, peak or just past peak

Buffalo: 75%, peak

East Aurora: 85%, past peak

Thousand Islands-Seaway

Ogdensburg: Midpoint to past peak

Maple City Trail: 55%

St. Lawrence River: 85% transition, past peak

Wanakena: 100%, past peak

Madrid: 100%, nearly past peak

Alexandria Bay: 100%, slightly past peak

Chautauqua-Allegheny

Chautauqua County: 90%, past peak

Chautauqua Lake and Lake Erie: Just past peak

Cattaraugus County: 100%, past peak

READ MORE

See rare wildflower bloom at Upstate NY preserve where Strawberry Fields are forever

Take a ride on the scenic Adirondack Railroad during peak foliage in the mountains (photos)

Upstate NY rail bikes: Where to ride through seasonal splendor
The new leader of one of the chambers of Congress that will certify the winner of next years presidential election helped spearhead the attempt to overturn the last one, raising alarms that Republicans could try to subvert the will of the voters if they remain in power despite safeguards enacted after the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Mike Johnson, the Louisiana congressman who was elected speaker of the House of Representatives on Wednesday after a three-week standoff among Republicans, took the lead in filing a brief in a lawsuit that sought to overturn President Joe Bidens 2020 win. That claim, widely panned by legal scholars of all ideologies, was quickly thrown out by the U.S. Supreme Court.

After the 2020 election, Johnson also echoed some of the wilder conspiracy theories pushed by former President Donald Trump to explain away his loss. Then Johnson voted against certifying Bidens win even after the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol.

Johnsons role three years ago is relevant now not only because the U.S. Constitution puts the speaker second in the line of presidential succession, after the vice president. The House Johnson now leads also will have to certify the winner of the 2025 presidential election.

You dont want people who falsely claim the last election was stolen to be in a position of deciding who won the next one, said Rick Hasen, a law professor at the University of California, Los Angeles. On Wednesday, he flagged another worry about Johnson, who is a constitutional lawyer.

Johnson is more dangerous because he wrapped up his attempt to subvert the election outcomes in lawyerly and technical language, Hasen said.

Last year, Congress revamped the procedures for how a presidential win is certified, making it far harder to object in the way that Johnson and 146 other House Republicans did on Jan. 6, 2021. But there is a conservative school of thought that no legislation can control how Congress oversees the certification of a presidents win  all that counts is the Constitutions broad granting of power to ratify the electoral colleges votes.

The House in January 2025 will be filled with the winners of the previous Novembers election, so theres no guarantee a Speaker Johnson would remain in power. To be sure, it would be difficult for the speaker to change any of the results. The vice president -- who would be Democrat Kamala Harris at the time  presides over the joint House and Senate session in a ceremonial role and calls votes if there are enough objections to do so.

Still, the goal of Trump supporters in 2020 was to advance any legal argument against Bidens win to a Supreme Court where conservative justices have a 6-3 edge, three of whom were nominated by Trump. A speaker who supported Trumps last effort to stay in power would be well-positioned to do so again if the former president is the GOP nominee next year and loses the election.

On Tuesday night, after Johnson was nominated to his new post by the House GOP caucus, he smiled and shook his head as the rest of the caucus laughed and booed at a reporters question about his role in trying to halt certification of the 2020 results. Next question, Johnson said. Next question.

Democrats kept the issue center stage as the speaker vote on the floor proceeded Wednesday.

This has been about one thing, Rep. Pete Aguilar said. This has been about who can appease Donald Trump. House Republicans have put their names behind someone who has been called the most important architect of the electoral college objections.

Damn right, someone called from the Republican side of the House.

Later, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., noted that Biden had won the 2020 election. Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor-Greene yelled, No, he didnt.

Johnsons ascension came after Trump on Tuesday torpedoed the candidacy of Rep. Tom Emmer, who signed onto Johnsons brief in the lawsuit to overturn Trumps loss but ended up voting to certify Bidens win after the attack on the Capitol. The former president called Emmer a RINO  or Republican In Name Only  on his social media platform, Truth Social, and said Emmer wasnt MAGA, a reference to his Make America Great Again slogan.

Johnson is a former attorney for the religious rights group Alliance Defending Freedom who was first elected to the House in 2016, the year Trump won the presidency. An active member of the House Judiciary Committee, he gained notice as one of the leading Republican questioners of witnesses during Trumps first impeachment in 2019.

He remained one of Trumps chief defenders through the 2020 election. On Nov. 7, 2020, four days after Election Day, he posted on Twitter that he had told Trump, Stay strong and keep fighting, sir! In an interview on a Shreveport, Louisiana, radio station 10 days later, he repeated a debunked claim about an international conspiracy to hack voting machines so Trump would lose.

In every election in American history, theres some small element of fraud, irregularity, Johnson said in the interview. But when you have it on a broad scale, when you have a software system that is used all around the country that is suspect because it came from Hugo Chavez in Venezuela, when you have testimonials of people like this, it demands to be litigated.

Johnson then organized more than 100 House Republicans to sign onto an amicus brief filed in support of a lawsuit from Texas Republican Attorney General, Ken Paxton, asking the U.S. Supreme Court to invalidate Bidens wins in four states that gave him his winning margin in the Electoral College  Georgia, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Many legal analysts were aghast at the litigation, which was quickly rejected by the high court.

On his social media streaming show, former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who is facing charges in Georgia for trying to overturn the election results there, praised Johnson on Wednesday for refusing to accept Trumps 2020 election loss.

He seems to be right on everything, including the things Im interested in, which is he didnt accept the election rollover, said Giuliani, who also praised Johnson for supporting the lawsuit by the Texas attorney general.

In an interview with The New Yorker in December 2020, Johnson dialed down his election rhetoric.

I dont see a grand conspiracy, he said of the allegations of voter fraud. What I see is a lot of chaos and confusion across the land, and the result is that this election will have this giant question mark hanging over it.

On Jan. 6, just before Trumps supporters overran the Capitol, Johnson tweeted: We MUST fight for election integrity, the Constitution, and the preservation of our republic! It will be my honor to help lead that fight in the Congress today.

Hours later, after the attack, Johnson condemned the violence on Twitter. But he still voted with about two-thirds of House Republicans to overturn Bidens wins in Arizona and Pennsylvania. He remains close to House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, a fellow Republican who strategized with Trump over how to overturn his defeat before Jan. 6.

Trumps supporters in trying to overturn the election have not fared well in elections since the violent assault on the Capitol, with a slate of conspiracy theorists attempting to assume positions overseeing elections in key swing states all losing their races last year. Instead, they have excelled at winning internal party contests and taking control of some state parties. Now they also have claimed one of the nations most powerful political positions.

Joanna Lydgate, chief executive officer of States United Democracy Center, a nonpartisan group organizing against election deniers, said Johnsons ascension was alarming: How can you run the peoples House if you dont believe in the will of the people?

Noting the speakers role in the peaceful transfer of power between presidential administrations, Lydgate warned, When those in power dont take our democracy and the will of the people seriously, it can have dire consequences.
A New Jersey couple filed a lawsuit against Panera Bread on Monday, a month after their college-age daughter died after allegedly consuming a caffeinated energy drink from the companys restaurant in Philadelphia.

Sarah Katz, 21, a student at the University of Pennsylvania, died Sept. 10 after drinking a Panera Charged Lemonade she bought at the Panera store on 40th Street in Philadelphia, according to a wrongful death lawsuit filed in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County.

A spokesperson for Panera Bread Company did not immediately respond Tuesday to a request for comment on the lawsuit. In a statement to CNN, the company said, We strongly believe in transparency around our ingredients. We will work quickly to thoroughly investigate this matter.

Katz was diagnosed at age 5 with a medical condition in which the potassium ion channels in her heart do not work properly, disrupting the hearts electrical activity and resulting in abnormal heart rhythms, according to the suit filed on behalf of Jersey City residents Jill and Michael Katz.

Intense physical exercise, like swimming, and energy drinks can bring on life-threatening irregular heartbeats for people with the medical condition, according to the suit.

As a precaution, Sarah Katz visited a cardiologist twice a year, took medication and avoided energy drinks and highly caffeinated beverages, according to the suit.

On Sept. 1, Katz obtained a Panera Sip Club membership, which she used to purchase Panera Charged Lemonade in the Philadelphia store, according to the suit.

The 30-ounce drink contained between 114 milligrams and 160 milligrams of caffeine and exceeded the caffeine levels in 12 ounces of Red Bull and 16 ounces of Monster Energy Drink, the suit states.

Sarah Katz, who grew up in Jersey City, died after consuming a Panera Charged Lemonade, according to a lawsuit.Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County

The lawsuit states Katz drank the Panera Charged Lemonade while with her friends at a restaurant in her apartment building and went into cardiac arrest. She was rushed to Pennsylvania Presbyterian Hospital, where she suffered another cardiac arrest and died, according to the suit.

The lawsuit alleges Panera Bread Company had an obligation to label the beverage as an energy drink, but instead marketed the product as plant-based and clean with as much caffeine as our dark roast coffee.

Panera Charged Lemonade also contains large amounts of sugar and the stimulant guarana, as another source of caffeine content, the suit states.

Consumers are not provided a factual basis for understanding it as an energy drink containing exorbitant amounts of caffeine, caffeine sources, stimulants and sugar, the suit states.

The company knew or should have known that failing to advertise the Panera Charged Lemonade as an energy drink increased the risk of causing permanent and catastrophic injuries to consumers, the suit alleges.

The lawsuit alleges negligence, product misrepresentation and wrongful death.

According to The Daily Pennsylvanian, Sarah Katz grew up in Jersey City and graduated from Elisabeth Irwin High School in New York City.

Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  A U.S. Army reservist suspected of killing at least 18 people in Maine had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, a U.S. official told The Associated Press.

The official said commanders in the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment became concerned in mid-July that Robert Card was acting erratically while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in New York.

The official said military commanders became concerned about Cards safety and asked for the police to be called. New York state police took Card to the Keller Army Community Hospital at West Point for evaluation, the official said.

The official was not authorized to publicly discuss information about the incident and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

A warrant is out for the arrest of Card, 40, in the attack in Lewiston that sent panicked bowlers scrambling behind pins, into corners and a back room when shots rang out around 7 p.m. Wednesday.

Maine State Police Col. William Ross said police have issued a warrant for Card on eight counts of murder. He said those counts will increase when the other 10 victims are identified.

A police bulletin document that had been circulated to law enforcement officials as Card was identified as a person of interest in the attack, said he had been committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023. It did not provide details about his treatment or condition but said Card had reported hearing voices and threats to shoot up the military base.

A telephone number listed for Card in public records was not in service.

On Wednesday, Lewiston Police reported an active shooter incident at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Sparetime as part of a childrens bowling league.

One bowler, who identified himself only as Brandon, said he heard about 10 shots, thinking the first was a balloon popping.

I had my back turned to the door. And as soon as I turned and saw it was not a balloon  he was holding a weapon  I just booked it, he told The Associated Press.

Brandon said he scrambled down the length of the alley, sliding into the pin area and climbing up to hide in the machinery.

I was putting on my bowling shoes when when it started. Ive been barefoot for five hours, he said.

The bowling alley is home to traditional tenpin bowling as well as candlepin, a variant of bowling found in New England. Its located about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) north of the Bates College campus, on the outskirts of downtown. The alley has a small bar and is popular for local bowling leagues and childrens parties.

Wednesday was industry night at Schemengees Bar and Grille, with 25% discounts offered to customers who work in the bar or restaurant industry.

In a split second your world gets turn upside down for no good reason, the business posted online, saying great people in this community were lost.

After the shooting, police, many armed with rifles, took up positions while the city descended into eerie quiet  punctuated by occasional sirens  as people hunkered down at home. Schools as far away as Kennebunk, more than 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Lewiston, closed out of caution on Thursday. And schools and public buildings were closed in Portland, the states largest city.

Bates and Bowdoin colleges canceled classes, as did the Gorham and Portland campuses of the University of Southern Maine.

Diana Florence said her son, a sophomore at Bates College, stayed in his dorm with his roommate with the blinds closed. Her daughter is a senior at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which was locked down twice last month, once when a professor was killed and again two weeks later when a man brandished a gun in the student union building.

I could not believe it  that this is happening again. Its happening to my son after it just happened to my daughter, she said in a phone interview Thursday.

Ten-year-old Zoey Levesque, who was at the bowling alley with her mother, told WMTW-TV she was grazed by a bullet.

Its scary, she said. I had never thought Id grow up and get a bullet in my leg. And its just like, why? Why do people do this?

The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office released two photos of the suspect on its Facebook page that showed the shooter walking into an establishment with a weapon raised to his shoulder.

Its the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University.

Lewiston, the second largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000, emerged as a major center for African immigration into Maine. The Somali population, which numbers in the thousands, has changed the demographics of the once overwhelmingly white mill city into one of the most diverse in northern New England.

A shelter-in-place advisory was issued Wednesday night for Androscoggin County. That included the community of Lisbon, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) away, after a vehicle of interest was found there, authorities said. It was extended Thursday to Bowdoin, which is in Sagadahoc County.

Wednesdays death toll was staggering for a state that in 2022 had 29 homicides the entire year.

Author Stephen King responded to the shootings Thursday morning in a pair of posts on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The shootings occurred less than 50 miles from where I live. I went to high school in Lisbon. Its the rapid-fire killing machines, people. This is madness in the name of freedom. Stop electing apologists for murder, he wrote.

Maine doesnt require permits to carry guns, and the state has a longstanding culture of gun ownership that is tied to its traditions of hunting and sport shooting.

Florence, of New York, said she and her son at Bates College spoke and texted late into the night, and that he was shaken up but OK. Meanwhile, she was left angry.

I think this is about our laws, frankly. That we cannot seem to pass any sort of sensible gun laws or attack mental health in the way we should, she said. And our kids are paying the price. And even if theyre not killed or injured, the trauma that is going to linger long past the semester is palpable.
FREETOWN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China plays a significant role in the development of Sierra Leone's agriculture and food security, said a senior Sierra Leonean official.

Agriculture is a top priority for Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio in the pursuit of sustainable economic development and social progress, said the country's Deputy Minister of Information and Civic Education Yusuf Keketoma Sandi in a recent interview with Xinhua.

Mentioning the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing last week, Sandi said Sierra Leone is ready to deepen cooperation with China in various fields under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

The combination of fertile land and mild climate in Sierra Leone allows it to cultivate a wide variety of crops, with rice being a staple food for the locals, said Sandi.

However, the rice production falls short of the demand of the citizens, resulting in the country's heavy reliance on food imports, he added.

He appreciated China's assistance in enhancing the country's agriculture sector, including providing a large quantity of rice, training programs in the sector's development and investment, and agricultural equipment.

"We have received training from Chinese experts, who have taught Sierra Leoneans how to operate the machinery and tools we've received in various farm centers across the country, which significantly benefited rice production," Sandi said.

For decades, China has dispatched agricultural experts to Sierra Leone to carry out technical cooperation, and thousands of local households benefited from these projects.

Noting that agriculture represents a rapidly growing area of China-Africa economic cooperation, Sandi said that African countries could benefit through initiatives like the BRI and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation to expand collaboration with China in the agricultural sector.

"We want to move from small-scale rice production to mechanized farming. Our government is committed to working with the Chinese to achieve high agricultural yields," Sandi added. 
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.
SACRAMENTO, the United States, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Driverless vehicles face increased pushbacks in California after the U.S. state regulators halted the operation for one robotaxi company while another was told their cars are not welcome.

Following a few high-profile accidents involving driverless car company Cruise, the California Department of Motor Vehicles suspended Cruise's licenses to test and deploy its vehicles and its ability to carry passengers on Tuesday.

Citing public safety concerns, the department's decision has grounded the company's fleet of about 150 robotaxis in San Francisco.

Cruise, a subsidiary of General Motors, opened a fully driverless taxi service to the public in San Francisco in early 2022.

The suspension was based on an accident on Oct. 2, in which a Cruise driverless car dragged a pedestrian first struck by a hit-and-run driver, thrown into an adjacent lane, and then hit a second time by the robotaxi.

Robotaxi oversight is regarded as a priority at Los Angeles City Hall. On Wednesday, the city council held a news conference to send a message that "robot taxis ... do not belong in the city of Los Angeles."

Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez said they "pose a threat to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists and risk putting countless workers out of work" and that "Los Angeles should not be a test subject for the tech industry."

He also introduced a motion calling on the city attorney to join San Francisco to rein in robotaxi expansion.

San Francisco has formally requested the California Public Utilities Commission to reconsider its approval in August that expanded robotaxi permits for Cruise and Waymo, giving both companies permission for around-the-clock operations in the city.

The approval has caused much opposition as city agencies and residents questioned the far-reaching impact of the expansions.

Cruise and Waymo vehicles have been involved in collisions, but no death has been reported.

Waymo, formerly known as the Google self-driving car project, recently announced the expansion of a broader service in Los Angeles, which has also met opposition.

On Tuesday, labor unions rallied outside Google's offices in Los Angeles, protesting the recent expansion of Waymo's autonomous ride-hailing service. 
JDMBOI BHPian



Join Date: Oct 2023 Location: Sonipat Posts: 31 Thanked: 387 Times

Built By Legends : The Worlds Leading Nissan Skyline Restoration Program



Built By Legends, a new project that will produce Japanese restomod vehicles in conjunction with the Legends of the industry. Incorporating modern techniques and materials, our focus is to restore and recreate the Japanese tuner cars that had permanently been engraved in our memory. With the full support of the Legendary tuners, we are taking the iconic Japanese cars of the 80s and 90s to a whole new level, to be owned, driven and appreciated all around the world.



Built By Legends have teamed up with the Skyline restoration specialist, Garage Yoshida (Nara, Japan) to offer the best one stop solution to restore your Skyline. The value of Skylines have increased over the past few years and are now recognized globally as a true Japanese classic. As Skylines are becoming legal in North America, significant amount of the cars are being exported from Japan, some of which are in poor condition. Since proper restoration services are not available in some countries, we are here to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world to offer the best restoration service for the Skyline GT-R.

From full bare chassis restoration to rusted strut panel replacements, we offer several package menus as well as full range of options tailored to meet your requirements. To determine the action plan, evaluating the current condition of your vehicle becomes crucial. Whether you wish to retain the original look by using as much OEM parts as possible, or incorporate performance upgrades, we have the experience, English communication skills and various solutions to satisfy your needs.

As for shipping your car to Japan, our partner, Toprank Importers has the experince in global car shipping to assist you with secure transportation to and from Japan.



Who are they?

The founders, Masa and Katsu are Japanese natives, but were both raised overseas. (Masa in Canada and Katsu in the UK & Australia) Ever since they moved back to Japan, they had a similar vision, to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world in some unique way. They met as founding members of a dotcom start up in Tokyo called Zigzag Asia, which was a portal for Japans Pop culture presented in English (Which later evolved into GTChannel). They obviously shared the same passion, which was cars. This passion guided them to meet Yoshi who worked on the same projects for MotorHead Magazine. We simply love cars. We all have lived with a variety of car makes not just Japanese cars but European, American etc, and have driven on all kinds of roads around the world while absorbing exciting automotive culture.

We are a compact team, but we believe our experience, insights and resources can propel us through the challenge of becoming the first successful Tuner Restomod builder from Japan.







Symbol Of Japan.

Symbol Of Built By Legends.

Mt. Fuji is Japans sacred landmark. Its majestic beauty is deeply embedded in the hearts of people living in Japan. Respect and love for Mt. Fuji have influenced Japanese culture throughout the centuries. Built By Legends is no exception. We wanted to incorporate the mountain as a motif, symbolizing the Legends associated with our brand. The mountain can be found in numerous design cues around our vehicle.



Vehicles R32 R33 R34 SPOON EG6 SPOON EK9



R32

The car that was born to beat the greats, is now reborn to beat them again. The MINES R32 transcends the typical JDM Tuner car mindset and delivers razor sharp response, high speed stability, as well as prestigious ownership experience and comfortable ride. MINES way is simple. Less weight, More Power, and Perfect Balance. You can have it all in this iconic MINES R32 Skyline GT-R.







Restoration

Chassis restoration and reinforcement is done by Kozo Yoshida of Garage Yoshida (Nara, Japan) famously known for his No Compromise restoration work on Skyline GT-Rs. Kozo works closely with MINES restoring their iconic demo cars including the Legendary MINES R34 demo car. At Garage Yoshida, Built By Legends Skylines are completely teared down to its bare chassis, first to be fully measured by a 3D body alignment tester on a Celette jig, then undergoes wet blast, spot welding, and other reinforcements depending on engine power. Fresh 5 layer paint with integrated MINES side stripes (Optional), built back with new parts or renewed powder coated parts all around everything down to a single bolt.























Engine

MINES RB26 2.8 liter Complete Engine

Hand Built by Master Engine Builder, Toshikazu Nakayama at MINES





Weight 1357 kg (2991 lbs) Approx. 122 kg (268 lbs) lighter than stock.



Technical Specifications

5 Speed Manual Transmission.

HICAS Delete.

Built By Legends x MINES original Titanium Exhaust with black tail pipe.





MINES Titanium front pipe.

MINES VX-ROM ECU.

R35 Airflow Meter + R35 Injector + MINES Fuel Delivery Pipe.

MINES Titanium Tower Bar with custom BBL graphics by Yoshikazu Kasai.





Suspension, Tyres and Wheels



MINES x OHLINS DFV Suspension System with HYPERCO springs. F10kg / R8kg





Brembo F50 4pot Front Calipers & 355mm RDD (Racing Disc Development) 2 piece slit rotors.





Brembo 360 rear calipers & 343mm RDD (Racing Disc Development) 2 piece slit rotors.

RAYS TE037 9.5J-18 Wheels + MINES wheel caps.







Bridgestone POTENZA RE-71RS 255/35/18





Exotic Materials. Subtle Looks.

All Dry Carbon parts are made by Dry Carbon Specialist, Benetec (Shizuoka, Japan) for MINES.



Dry Carbon Bonnet (Painted) with NACA duct.







Dry Carbon 1 piece Front Bumper (Partially Painted)







Dry Carbon Rear Spoiler (Partially Painted)

Built By Legends x MINES engine plate custom made by Kusaka Engineering (Tottori, Japan)

Fresh 5 layer OEM Paint with integrated MINES Stripes (Optional), painted by Kozo Yoshida of Garage Yoshida.

Aero Blade front & rear wipers.

MINES stainless steel rear emblem.





Black Tone Japanesque Interior.



Stock R32 Seats with Bespoke Mt. Fuji Mocquette Fabriccustom made by Taenaka Pile Fabrics (Wakayama, Japan) and black suede.





Interior reupholstered by Studio 6Zero (Kanagawa, Japan)The interior work of the Built By Legends MINES R32 will be upholstered by Studio 6Zero.





Built By Legends x MINES full scale Meter Cluster.





MINES R32 Nappa leather x Alcantara steering wheel.

(15mm smaller than stock, with thicker grip)





Built By Legends custom OEM based Shift Knob handmade by Yoshikazu Kasai.





Built By Legends custom neoprene shift boot and parking lever boot.

MINES Nappa leather parking brake grip.

Black chrome finished door handles.





Black chrome finished light and rear wiper switch.

R34 Aluminum pedals.

R34 Rear view mirror.

Roof & Floor sound and heat deadening light weight insulation sheets co-developed by Garage Yoshida and Daiko Rubber.

BlackUltrasuede roof lining, black floor carpets upholstered by Garage Yoshida.





Restored interior panels by ITO Jidosha.- Rear speaker grille delete (Concealed rear speakers)

Built By Legends x MINES vehicle specific name plaque

Built By Legends x MINES CNC machined badge by NDK (Tokyo)

Built By Legends Floor Mats.





Source - I am obsessed with 90's JDM cars hence my username is JDMBOI, wanted to share this so enjoy., a new project that will produce Japanese restomod vehicles in conjunction with the Legends of the industry. Incorporating modern techniques and materials, our focus is to restore and recreate the Japanese tuner cars that had permanently been engraved in our memory. With the full support of the Legendary tuners, we are taking the iconic Japanese cars of the 80s and 90s to a whole new level, to be owned, driven and appreciated all around the world.Built By Legends have teamed up with the Skyline restoration specialist, Garage Yoshida (Nara, Japan) to offer the best one stop solution to restore your Skyline. The value of Skylines have increased over the past few years and are now recognized globally as a true Japanese classic. As Skylines are becoming legal in North America, significant amount of the cars are being exported from Japan, some of which are in poor condition. Since proper restoration services are not available in some countries, we are here to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world to offer the best restoration service for the Skyline GT-R.From full bare chassis restoration to rusted strut panel replacements, we offer several package menus as well as full range of options tailored to meet your requirements. To determine the action plan, evaluating the current condition of your vehicle becomes crucial. Whether you wish to retain the original look by using as much OEM parts as possible, or incorporate performance upgrades, we have the experience, English communication skills and various solutions to satisfy your needs.As for shipping your car to Japan, our partner, Toprank Importers has the experince in global car shipping to assist you with secure transportation to and from Japan.The founders, Masa and Katsu are Japanese natives, but were both raised overseas. (Masa in Canada and Katsu in the UK & Australia) Ever since they moved back to Japan, they had a similar vision, to bridge the gap between Japan and the rest of the world in some unique way. They met as founding members of a dotcom start up in Tokyo called Zigzag Asia, which was a portal for Japans Pop culture presented in English (Which later evolved into GTChannel). They obviously shared the same passion, which was cars. This passion guided them to meet Yoshi who worked on the same projects for MotorHead Magazine. We simply love cars. We all have lived with a variety of car makes not just Japanese cars but European, American etc, and have driven on all kinds of roads around the world while absorbing exciting automotive culture.We are a compact team, but we believe our experience, insights and resources can propel us through the challenge of becoming the first successful Tuner Restomod builder from Japan.Mt. Fuji is Japans sacred landmark. Its majestic beauty is deeply embedded in the hearts of people living in Japan. Respect and love for Mt. Fuji have influenced Japanese culture throughout the centuries. Built By Legends is no exception. We wanted to incorporate the mountain as a motif, symbolizing the Legends associated with our brand. The mountain can be found in numerous design cues around our vehicle.The car that was born to beat the greats, is now reborn to beat them again. The MINES R32 transcends the typical JDM Tuner car mindset and delivers razor sharp response, high speed stability, as well as prestigious ownership experience and comfortable ride. MINES way is simple. Less weight, More Power, and Perfect Balance. You can have it all in this iconic MINES R32 Skyline GT-R.Chassis restoration and reinforcement is done by Kozo Yoshida of Garage Yoshida (Nara, Japan) famously known for his No Compromise restoration work on Skyline GT-Rs. Kozo works closely with MINES restoring their iconic demo cars including the Legendary MINES R34 demo car. At Garage Yoshida, Built By Legends Skylines are completely teared down to its bare chassis, first to be fully measured by a 3D body alignment tester on a Celette jig, then undergoes wet blast, spot welding, and other reinforcements depending on engine power. Fresh 5 layer paint with integrated MINES side stripes (Optional), built back with new parts or renewed powder coated parts all around everything down to a single bolt.MINES RB26 2.8 liter Complete EngineHand Built by Master Engine Builder, Toshikazu Nakayama at MINES1357 kg (2991 lbs) Approx. 122 kg (268 lbs) lighter than stock.5 Speed Manual Transmission.HICAS Delete.Built By Legends x MINES original Titanium Exhaust with black tail pipe.MINES Titanium front pipe.MINES VX-ROM ECU.R35 Airflow Meter + R35 Injector + MINES Fuel Delivery Pipe.MINES Titanium Tower Bar with custom BBL graphics by Yoshikazu Kasai.MINES x OHLINS DFV Suspension System with HYPERCO springs. F10kg / R8kgBrembo F50 4pot Front Calipers & 355mm RDD (Racing Disc Development) 2 piece slit rotors.Brembo 360 rear calipers & 343mm RDD (Racing Disc Development) 2 piece slit rotors.RAYS TE037 9.5J-18 Wheels + MINES wheel caps.Bridgestone POTENZA RE-71RS 255/35/18All Dry Carbon parts are made by Dry Carbon Specialist, Benetec (Shizuoka, Japan) for MINES.Dry Carbon Bonnet (Painted) with NACA duct.Dry Carbon 1 piece Front Bumper (Partially Painted)Dry Carbon Rear Spoiler (Partially Painted)Built By Legends x MINES engine plate custom made by Kusaka Engineering (Tottori, Japan)Fresh 5 layer OEM Paint with integrated MINES Stripes (Optional), painted by Kozo Yoshida of Garage Yoshida.Aero Blade front & rear wipers.MINES stainless steel rear emblem.Stock R32 Seats with Bespoke Mt. Fuji Mocquette Fabriccustom made by Taenaka Pile Fabrics (Wakayama, Japan) and black suede.Interior reupholstered by Studio 6Zero (Kanagawa, Japan)The interior work of the Built By Legends MINES R32 will be upholstered by Studio 6Zero.Built By Legends x MINES full scale Meter Cluster.MINES R32 Nappa leather x Alcantara steering wheel.(15mm smaller than stock, with thicker grip)Built By Legends custom OEM based Shift Knob handmade by Yoshikazu Kasai.Built By Legends custom neoprene shift boot and parking lever boot.MINES Nappa leather parking brake grip.Black chrome finished door handles.Black chrome finished light and rear wiper switch.R34 Aluminum pedals.R34 Rear view mirror.Roof & Floor sound and heat deadening light weight insulation sheets co-developed by Garage Yoshida and Daiko Rubber.BlackUltrasuede roof lining, black floor carpets upholstered by Garage Yoshida.Restored interior panels by ITO Jidosha.- Rear speaker grille delete (Concealed rear speakers)Built By Legends x MINES vehicle specific name plaqueBuilt By Legends x MINES CNC machined badge by NDK (Tokyo)Built By Legends Floor Mats.Source - Link Last edited by JDMBOI : 25th October 2023 at 19:42 .
Aditya Team-BHP Support

Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Mumbai Posts: 16,684 Thanked: 72,239 Times

View My Garage





BMW X1 Interior Images

Interiors are well-designed and solidly built with high-quality materials. Ergonomics are absolutely perfect with all controls falling easily to hand:





While this is no full-size SUV like say the Fortuner, the view from the driver's seat is commanding:





A-Pillars are not very thick. All-round visibility is good with no blind spots:





Leather-wrapped steering feels fantastic to hold  very sporty and very meaty. It has a prominent horn pad that sticks out which may not be to everyone's liking:





Buttons for the cruise control are placed on the left spoke while those for the infotainment system and telephony are placed on the right:





Paddle shifters have been provided to enable drivers to shift gears manually. Keep the left paddle pulled for a few seconds to activate the "Sport Boost" function for 10 seconds:





Steering is adjustable for height and reach. However, the adjustment has to be done manually:





Switchgear for the lights is located on the left, while the controls for the wipers are located on the right. The X1 is equipped with automatic adaptive headlights and rain-sensing wipers:





Instrument cluster is clear to read. However, we are not fans of this digital console, especially with the rev counter on the right, which climbs anti-clockwise and the speedometer on the left:





The user can choose the content to be displayed. He / she can choose between a digital speedometer, navigation, G meter and compass among others:





One can also choose between three layouts for the instrument cluster according to his / her preference:





When the Sport Boost function is activated, a countdown from 10 to 0 appears on the MID:





MID shows you the specific door that is open. It also warns you if the bonnet or tailgate is not closed:





Slim A/C vents get glossy black surrounds and silver inserts:





Switches for the headlamps, rear foglamp and illumination adjustment are located below:





Doorpads feature leather and silver inserts. They hold a speaker and tweeter each:





Tweeters get stainless steel bezels and illuminated Harman Kardon branding:





Door handles get a pearl chrome finish. Good to see physical buttons for the power windows and ORVMs. They are much nicer to use than the touch-type units that cars are coming with in recent times:





Doorpads can hold a 1-litre bottle and other small items:





Welcome light under the door projects "BMW" on the floor:





Door sills are not very wide. They get "M" branded scuff plates:





Sports seats come draped in perforated Mocha faux leather upholstery. They are firm with excellent bolstering on the sides and offer superb support. They are also wide enough to suit larger-built folks. M Sport variant gets a massage function for the front seats :





Both seats are electrically adjustable and also get a lumbar adjustment. Driver seat gets 2 seat memory positions. The fore and aft travel range is long. Even tall drivers will fit in without complaints:





Seat base can be manually extended as well to provide better under-thigh support for taller drivers:





Passenger seat does not get memory function:





Centre armrest is wide and draped in soft faux leather. Though not adjustable, its placing is spot on:





Aluminium accelerator and brake pedals are well-spaced. They have rubber inserts on the surface. Dead pedal is positioned perfectly and can even accommodate large-sized shoes. Footwells are illuminated:





ORVMs are wide enough to give a good view of happenings at the rear. However, they do not come with blind-spot warnings:





Auto-dimming IRVM is large enough to cover the entire rear windshield:





The rearward view is just average. The rear windshield is fair in size, but the D-pillars are thick. Better to take the assistance of reversing camera and parking sensors:





Sound system has been provided by Harman Kardon and comes with 12 speakers. The centre speaker is mounted on the dashboard:





Centre fascia is tilted towards the driver:





10.7-inch touchscreen head-unit features iDrive Operating System 8, wireless smartphone connectivity and navigation. It is easy to use with a crisp display. Many functions are controlled through this touchscreen. However, we feel some functions such as the climate control and idling start/stop should have had physical buttons. Audio quality is impressive:





One can choose from various modes. While the first three are driving modes, the other three alter the ambience:





Massaging function for the front seats can be controlled through the touchscreen. A TPMS has also been provided:





One can control the idling start/stop, ADAS features and ambient lighting through the touchscreen head-unit:





Touchscreen doubles up as a display for the reversing camera. The X1 also comes with a Parking Assistant and Reversing Assistant that help you park in or reverse out of a tight spot. No 360-degree view here though:





Single A/C vent in the centre has a glossy black surround. Defrost buttons are placed to the left:





Vertical smartphone holder with ambient lighting provides wireless charging and an NFC interface. Two cupholders are located next to it:





Two Type C USB ports are placed on the right, while...





...a 12V power outlet is located on the LHS:





Front portion of the centre armrest houses the engine start / stop button, gear shifter, electronic parking brake, buttons for the reversing camera, drive modes, auto-hold, hazard lights and volume control:





Large, open storage space below the centre console has a rubberised base:





Storage compartment under the centre armrest gets a rubberised base. The door of the bin opens by pressing the button located just ahead of it. It has a left-hand drive orientation:





Two A/C vents are placed on the passenger side which is unconventional:





Glovebox is medium-sized. It gets a rubber base and illumination:





Roof bezel consists of map lights, sunroof controls and an SOS call button:





Bluetooth mic is positioned above the driver on the roofliner. It should have been integrated into the roof lamp console for a cleaner look IMHO:





Both sunvisors get vanity mirrors with covers & lights and ticket holders:





Massive panoramic sunroof lets in a lot of light, making the cabin feel airy:





Rear doorpads get the same theme as the ones in the front. Rear speakers and tweeters are housed on them:





Rear doorpads can hold a 1-litre bottle and other small items:





No scuff plates at the rear:





Rear legroom is at acceptable levels compared to earlier generations of the X1. Under-thigh support is adequate too:





Rear seats get fore & aft adjustment of 130 mm. Helps in liberating more legroom:





Lever for fore & aft adjustment of the rear seats:





Rear seat is more suitable for 2 adults and a child, rather than 3 adults. The seat base and backrest have some contours to hold you in place. Adjustable headrests and 3-point seatbelts have been provided for all occupants along with ISOFIX child seat anchors on both sides:





Middle passenger has his seatbelt mounted on the roof:





Backrests can be individually reclined to suit the users' comfort. This image shows the backrests in the most upright and reclined angles:





Wide centre armrest houses two cupholders:





Front seatbacks have storage nets for rear seat occupants to use:





Rear air-con vents are provided. Two Type C USB ports are located below them along with a space to keep your smartphone:





Tall and wide floor hump means that the middle passenger needs to place his feet on either side of it:





Both rear grab handles have coat hooks and reading lights:





476-litre boot can easily accommodate luggage for a family vacation:





Parcel shelf has a prominent lip to keep things from rolling onto the rear seat:





Storage pocket on the left gets a net:





There's a storage pocket on the right as well. 12V power outlet and boot lamp are located here:





Space saver spare tyre and tools are stored under the boot floor. We like this arrangement as it does not eat into the luggage space:





Backrests are split in a 40:20:40 ratio. One can use this feature to carry a combination of passengers and luggage. Rear passengers can also access the boot from the cabin by folding the middle backrest:





Folding the rear backrests down gives you 1,527 litres of cargo capacity:





Warning triangle is stowed in the tailgate cladding:





Tailgate can be closed electrically. You can set the opening height as well:

Interiors are well-designed and solidly built with high-quality materials. Ergonomics are absolutely perfect with all controls falling easily to hand:While this is no full-size SUV like say the Fortuner, the view from the driver's seat is commanding:A-Pillars are not very thick. All-round visibility is good with no blind spots:Leather-wrapped steering feels fantastic to hold  very sporty and very meaty. It has a prominent horn pad that sticks out which may not be to everyone's liking:Buttons for the cruise control are placed on the left spoke while those for the infotainment system and telephony are placed on the right:Paddle shifters have been provided to enable drivers to shift gears manually. Keep the left paddle pulled for a few seconds to activate the "Sport Boost" function for 10 seconds:Steering is adjustable for height and reach. However, the adjustment has to be done manually:Switchgear for the lights is located on the left, while the controls for the wipers are located on the right. The X1 is equipped with automatic adaptive headlights and rain-sensing wipers:Instrument cluster is clear to read. However, we are not fans of this digital console, especially with the rev counter on the right, which climbs anti-clockwise and the speedometer on the left:The user can choose the content to be displayed. He / she can choose between a digital speedometer, navigation, G meter and compass among others:One can also choose between three layouts for the instrument cluster according to his / her preference:When the Sport Boost function is activated, a countdown from 10 to 0 appears on the MID:MID shows you the specific door that is open. It also warns you if the bonnet or tailgate is not closed:Slim A/C vents get glossy black surrounds and silver inserts:Switches for the headlamps, rear foglamp and illumination adjustment are located below:Doorpads feature leather and silver inserts. They hold a speaker and tweeter each:Tweeters get stainless steel bezels and illuminated Harman Kardon branding:Door handles get a pearl chrome finish. Good to see physical buttons for the power windows and ORVMs. They are much nicer to use than the touch-type units that cars are coming with in recent times:Doorpads can hold a 1-litre bottle and other small items:Welcome light under the door projects "BMW" on the floor:Door sills are not very wide. They get "M" branded scuff plates:Sports seats come draped in perforated Mocha faux leather upholstery. They are firm with excellent bolstering on the sides and offer superb support. They are also wide enough to suit larger-built folks. M Sport variant gets a massage function for the front seats :Both seats are electrically adjustable and also get a lumbar adjustment. Driver seat gets 2 seat memory positions. The fore and aft travel range is long. Even tall drivers will fit in without complaints:Seat base can be manually extended as well to provide better under-thigh support for taller drivers:Passenger seat does not get memory function:Centre armrest is wide and draped in soft faux leather. Though not adjustable, its placing is spot on:Aluminium accelerator and brake pedals are well-spaced. They have rubber inserts on the surface. Dead pedal is positioned perfectly and can even accommodate large-sized shoes. Footwells are illuminated:ORVMs are wide enough to give a good view of happenings at the rear. However, they do not come with blind-spot warnings:Auto-dimming IRVM is large enough to cover the entire rear windshield:The rearward view is just average. The rear windshield is fair in size, but the D-pillars are thick. Better to take the assistance of reversing camera and parking sensors:Sound system has been provided by Harman Kardon and comes with 12 speakers. The centre speaker is mounted on the dashboard:Centre fascia is tilted towards the driver:10.7-inch touchscreen head-unit features iDrive Operating System 8, wireless smartphone connectivity and navigation. It is easy to use with a crisp display. Many functions are controlled through this touchscreen. However, we feel some functions such as the climate control and idling start/stop should have had physical buttons. Audio quality is impressive:One can choose from various modes. While the first three are driving modes, the other three alter the ambience:Massaging function for the front seats can be controlled through the touchscreen. A TPMS has also been provided:One can control the idling start/stop, ADAS features and ambient lighting through the touchscreen head-unit:Touchscreen doubles up as a display for the reversing camera. The X1 also comes with a Parking Assistant and Reversing Assistant that help you park in or reverse out of a tight spot. No 360-degree view here though:Single A/C vent in the centre has a glossy black surround. Defrost buttons are placed to the left:Vertical smartphone holder with ambient lighting provides wireless charging and an NFC interface. Two cupholders are located next to it:Two Type C USB ports are placed on the right, while......a 12V power outlet is located on the LHS:Front portion of the centre armrest houses the engine start / stop button, gear shifter, electronic parking brake, buttons for the reversing camera, drive modes, auto-hold, hazard lights and volume control:Large, open storage space below the centre console has a rubberised base:Storage compartment under the centre armrest gets a rubberised base. The door of the bin opens by pressing the button located just ahead of it. It has a left-hand drive orientation:Two A/C vents are placed on the passenger side which is unconventional:Glovebox is medium-sized. It gets a rubber base and illumination:Roof bezel consists of map lights, sunroof controls and an SOS call button:Bluetooth mic is positioned above the driver on the roofliner. It should have been integrated into the roof lamp console for a cleaner look IMHO:Both sunvisors get vanity mirrors with covers & lights and ticket holders:Massive panoramic sunroof lets in a lot of light, making the cabin feel airy:Rear doorpads get the same theme as the ones in the front. Rear speakers and tweeters are housed on them:Rear doorpads can hold a 1-litre bottle and other small items:No scuff plates at the rear:Rear legroom is at acceptable levels compared to earlier generations of the X1. Under-thigh support is adequate too:Rear seats get fore & aft adjustment of 130 mm. Helps in liberating more legroom:Lever for fore & aft adjustment of the rear seats:Rear seat is more suitable for 2 adults and a child, rather than 3 adults. The seat base and backrest have some contours to hold you in place. Adjustable headrests and 3-point seatbelts have been provided for all occupants along with ISOFIX child seat anchors on both sides:Middle passenger has his seatbelt mounted on the roof:Backrests can be individually reclined to suit the users' comfort. This image shows the backrests in the most upright and reclined angles:Wide centre armrest houses two cupholders:Front seatbacks have storage nets for rear seat occupants to use:Rear air-con vents are provided. Two Type C USB ports are located below them along with a space to keep your smartphone:Tall and wide floor hump means that the middle passenger needs to place his feet on either side of it:Both rear grab handles have coat hooks and reading lights:476-litre boot can easily accommodate luggage for a family vacation:Parcel shelf has a prominent lip to keep things from rolling onto the rear seat:Storage pocket on the left gets a net:There's a storage pocket on the right as well. 12V power outlet and boot lamp are located here:Space saver spare tyre and tools are stored under the boot floor. We like this arrangement as it does not eat into the luggage space:Backrests are split in a 40:20:40 ratio. One can use this feature to carry a combination of passengers and luggage. Rear passengers can also access the boot from the cabin by folding the middle backrest:Folding the rear backrests down gives you 1,527 litres of cargo capacity:Warning triangle is stowed in the tailgate cladding:Tailgate can be closed electrically. You can set the opening height as well: Last edited by Aditya : 30th October 2023 at 12:55 .
In brief: iFixit has expanded its alliance with Microsoft, building on a partnership that was originally forged a couple of years ago. DIYers can now purchase genuine Microsoft replacement parts for select Surface devices directly from iFixit. As of writing, iFixit has components for the Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, Surface Laptop Studio, Surface Laptop Go, Surface Go, and Surface Studio.

Replacement parts are offered as part-only components or kits that include all of the necessary tools to complete a job. Pricing seems reasonable enough as well. For example, a Surface Go battery will set you back $79.99, a Surface Pro 8 SSD is $62.99, and a Surface Laptop Studio audio jack commands $24.99. Odds and ends like replacement feet or screws are also available should you need them.

iFixit has complimentary repair guides, disassembly videos, and Microsoft service manuals for associated devices to help with repairs.

iFixit said the expanded collaboration gives device owners more options to take control of their hardware and "save the planet," noting that each repair gets us closer to a more sustainable future with less e-waste.

There's a sense of pride that comes with repairing your own device. It is also a good way to potentially save a few bucks over having a shop do a repair, and fixing something yourself eliminates any privacy or security concerns. Repairs can also be done on your own time, with no need to drive to a local shop or ship your device off.

Back in late 2021, Microsoft partnered with iFixit on a manufacturing deal to create official repair tools for Surface devices. The initial batch of tools were designed specifically for authorized repair shops and included products like a display bonding frame to help with screen replacements, a battery cover to protect internal components on Surface Laptops, and a pick to pry open devices.

iFixit has similar partnerships in place with other leading hardware makers including Samsung, Google, and Valve. The repair specialist even recently requested a DMCA exemption for McDonald's unreliable ice cream machines.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday urged the Philippines to stop deliberate and provocative actions in the South China Sea.

Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, made the remarks in response to a media inquiry regarding the reactions of the Philippines and the United States on a recent friction between Chinese and Philippine vessels in waters near Ren'ai Jiao.

China has indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Qundao, including Ren'ai Jiao, and its adjacent waters. China's sovereignty is shaped and confirmed through a historical process, and complies with international laws including the UN Charter, said Wu.

On the specific case, Philippine ships ignored repeated dissuasion and warnings of the Chinese side, and intentionally violated China's sovereignty and made provocations by crossing the bow of a China Coast Guard (CCG) ship in a dangerous manner. A Philippine coast guard vessel then deliberately reversed and bumped into a parked Chinese fishing boat, endangering the personnel of both sides. The responsibility lies fully with the Philippine side. In response to the Philippines' provocations, the CCG responded in accordance with laws to safeguard China's territorial sovereignty. The CCG's operations are reasonable, legitimate, and professional, Wu said.

The Philippine side should stop violating China's sovereignty and stop any deliberate and provocative actions to prevent further escalation of the situation, said Wu, adding that the United States should stop interfering in the South China Sea issue, stop fanning the flame and stirring up troubles, and stop undermining regional peace and stability.

The Chinese military will firmly safeguard China's territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests and continue to operate in waters under China's jurisdiction, Wu said. 
Boeing's recent announcement revealed the company's inability to meet its 737 Max delivery target for this year, a setback in its plans.

Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun conveyed this news in a press release that offered an update on the firm's third-quarter results.

Boeing Still Optimistic Despite Challenges

Known for its cutting-edge technology, the 737 Max aircraft series incorporates significant advancements such as more fuel-efficient engines and improved aerodynamics.

Interesting Engineering reported that these innovations make the 737 Max planes more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, setting them apart from other aircraft in the aviation industry.

(Photo : David Ryder/Getty Images)

RENTON, WA - NOVEMBER 13: A worker walks by a Boeing 737 Max airplane as it sits parked at the company's Renton production facility on November 13, 2020 in Renton, Washington.

Despite challenges, Boeing remains resolute in its commitment to recovery and growth. Calhoun's message to Boeing employees conveyed a sense of optimism, emphasizing that the company continues to make progress despite the obstacles encountered during the third quarter.

Read Also: Boeing, Kratos to Develop Bolt-On Kit That Turns 'Dumb' Bomb Into Precision Cruise Missile

Boeing Long-Term Recovery Plan

In the statement, Calhoun said Boeing's long-term recovery plan remains on track. This year, Boeing aims to deliver approximately 375 to 400 737 Max aircraft. This figure is slightly less than the original estimate of 400 to 450 before Boeing identified quality issues with two distinct fuselages supplied by supplier Spirit AeroSystems.

These concerns led to an adjustment in the delivery target. Calhoun clarified that these quality issues should not be seen as signs of oversight but rather as a result of Boeing's improved quality control processes.

He emphasized the importance of the company's culture, which includes rigorous inspections and the commitment to identifying and rectifying non-conformities from the past.

Despite a third-quarter net loss of $1.6 billion, Boeing's financial goals remain ambitious, targeting between $3 billion and $5 billion in free cash flow for the year.

These objectives reflect Boeing's determination to navigate the challenges it faces, deliver on its commitments, and maintain its position as a key player in the aviation industry.

The 737 Max series faced a worldwide grounding in March 2019, prompting Boeing to engage in close cooperation with aviation authorities to address the issues affecting its aircraft.

Multiple solutions were devised to enhance the safety of the planes, involving a range of adjustments and software enhancements, along with additional pilot training.

Following a comprehensive re-certification process that Boeing willingly undertook, the 737 Max was granted approval to recommence operations in several countries in late 2020. This marked a significant milestone in the aircraft's journey to regain trust and re-establish itself in the aviation industry.

The Guardian reported that a 737 Max 8 aircraft named Lion Air Flight 610 tragically plunged into the Java Sea shortly after departing from Jakarta on October 29, 2018, resulting in the deaths of all 189 individuals aboard.

This was followed by another tragic event on March 10, 2019, when Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, also a 737 Max 8, crashed after taking off from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, leading to the tragic deaths of all 157 passengers and crew members.

These two catastrophic incidents raised significant concerns regarding the aircraft's flight control system, particularly focusing on the Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System (MCAS), which was designed to mitigate the risk of stalling in specific flight conditions.

Investigations revealed that both crashes were associated with issues related to the MCAS.

Related Article: Airbus, Boeing Ramp up Commercial Aircraft Production to Meet Surging Demand

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Massimiliano Squillace, Contents.com CEO and Founder)

Contents.com stands out as a pioneering force in the dynamic landscape of generative AI. Led by CEO Massimiliano Squillace, Contents.com is more than just a platformit's a vision of transformative marketing and communication. With a remarkable ARR of 10 million USD and a global team, this interview unveils the secrets behind Contents.com's remarkable rise and its mission to empower businesses worldwide through the power of AI. Explore the journey, challenges, and innovations that are redefining the future of marketing.

Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Massimiliano. Let's explore the incredible journey of Contents.com and its aspirations in the generative AI space.

1. Can you introduce Contents.com and outline the vision it holds in the generative AI industry?

Massimiliano Squillace (MS): Absolutely. Contents.com, established in 2021, is making waves in the generative AI space. Our mission is centered on empowering businesses globally. We aim to become the platform of choice for marketing, similar to how Excel is a staple in accounting. The key focus is on what AI enables us to do, not just on AI itself. We strive to help businesses communicate better, sell more effectively, and embody their culture and ethics through the power of AI.

2. How has Contents.com evolved since its inception, considering your significant financial milestones and growing team?

MS: Since our founding, we've experienced remarkable growth. We are proud to have achieved an impressive annual recurring revenue (ARR) of 10 million USD. This substantial growth has been made possible by our dedicated team of 80 individuals from 15 different countries. Their collective expertise has propelled Contents.com to the forefront of the market, enabling us to serve customers worldwide.

3. What role does AI play in achieving Contents.Com's mission, and how do you envision its future impact on businesses?

MS: AI is the engine that powers our mission. It allows us to revolutionize content creation and marketing. With AI, we're empowering businesses to communicate more effectively, helping them sell their products or ideas better, and enabling them to embody their values and culture more authentically. In the future, AI will continue to be a pivotal force in transforming industries, enhancing efficiency, and fostering innovation across diverse sectors.

4. Being a European company, what challenges have you faced in raising funds, especially from U.S. investors?

MS: Raising funds as a European company from U.S. investors presents certain unique challenges. There can be differences in regulations, market understanding, and investment strategies. However, our vision and the global potential of Contents.com resonated well with U.S. investors. Overcoming these challenges involved effectively communicating our vision and showcasing how our platform can make a significant impact on a global scale.

5. Could you share some insights into how Contents.com aims to help businesses communicate and market themselves more effectively using AI?

MS: Absolutely. Our platform, fueled by AI, helps businesses in their consumer-facing marketing efforts. We assist them in creating content that is compelling and resonates with their target audience. This empowers them to convey their brand's story more authentically and engagingly. In essence, we're providing the tools and capabilities for businesses to reach and connect with their customers in a more meaningful and effective manner.

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Motorola has unveiled an array of innovative devices at Lenovo's Tech World 2023 expo, showcasing advancements in flexible smartphone technology and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into its products.

The company emphasized its dedication to innovation and ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful consumer experiences.

Incorporating new AI features across various aspects of its devices, such as camera, battery, display, and device performance, signifies a transformative shift in the modern smartphone experience.

Adaptive Display Concept of Motorola

One of the standout revelations was the introduction of an adaptive display concept featuring an FHD+ pOLED display that can be flexed and contoured to cater to users' preferences.

This concept extends the boundaries of display and mechanical innovations from Motorola's foldable and rollable devices, both in the smartphone and PC categories.

The adaptive display concept allows a seamless transition from a standard flat Android phone experience to diverse forms, including a wrist-worn configuration or various stand modes.

In the flat position, the 6.9" display functions as a typical Android smartphone. When upright, it transforms into a self-standing device with a more compact 4.6" display. Users also have the option to wrap the device around their wrist for on-the-go connectivity.

Recognizing the significance of personalization, Motorola also introduced a generative AI model that operates locally on the device, enabling users to extend their personal style to their phone.

This concept empowers users to upload or capture images of their outfits, generating multiple unique AI-generated images that align with their style. These images can then be used as custom wallpapers, adding a personalized touch to their device.

Read Also: Motorola ThinkPhone Partners with Microsoft to Stream Entire Windows Without Computer

MotoAI Concept

Motorola has also unveiled the MotoAI concept, a personal assistant developed for both PCs and smartphones. This AI model is designed to continuously learn and adapt to user patterns and preferences while ensuring data privacy.

According to Motorola, unlike most large language models (LLMs) that rely on cloud-based operations, MotoAI can process data and tasks directly on the device, enhancing data privacy.

Motorola also introduced an AI concept model for document scanning to enhance the Doc Scanner capability integrated into their camera systems. It optimizes final image quality by minimizing wrinkles and shadows, ensuring documents or images appear sharp and clear.

Additionally, Motorola unveiled AI Text Summarization, a feature tailored to boost productivity by condensing long-form content like chats, emails, or reports into key messages for swift comprehension.

The company also introduced the Privacy Content Obfuscation concept, leveraging AI to protect user information and privacy by identifying and blurring sensitive areas in social posts.

Related Article: Motorola Introduces the Razr+, its Latest Foldable Coming This June-Specs, Features, and MORE

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Archer Aviation, a company developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful inaugural flight of its Midnight aircraft.

Following its first flight, the company can start the process of certification to begin commercial air taxi operations. The five-seat aircraft, characterized by its sleek design, is slated for operational deployment in 2025, offering efficient and low-impact short-range flights within urban landscapes.

The milestone marks a pivotal moment in Archer's four-year-long flight test program, including two years of rigorous full-scale flight testing in collaboration with Maker.

Archer Aviation's Midnight Flight Test Program

Adam Goldstein, the founder and CEO of Archer Aviation, emphasized that this achievement is a culmination of years of dedicated testing and development. He expressed confidence that Midnight's success is a substantial stride towards Archer's ultimate goal of commercialization.

"This next phase of Archer's flight test program is only possible because of the four years of flight testing we've done. Midnight is building on the successes of its predecessor aircraft and represents another significant step forward in Archer's path to commercialization," Goldstein said in a press statement.

"The next year and a half will be focused on continuing to rapidly advance our flight test program and Archer's electric air taxi operations as we prepare to bring Midnight to market in 2025," he added.

Tom Muniz, the Chief Operating Officer at Archer Aviation, also lauded this achievement, citing it as a significant leap forward in the eVTOL industry.

Drawing from his extensive experience in the sector, Muniz highlighted the importance of this milestone in the journey towards introducing a scalable and commercially viable aircraft to the market.

Archer's flight test program is poised to propel Midnight's flight capabilities, transitioning from hovering to full wing-borne flight in the near future.

This progress sets the stage for Archer to embark on "for credit" testing of the Midnight aircraft with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the following year as part of the preparations for its anticipated debut in 2025.

Read Also: Lilium Partners with EMCJET to Enter U.S. Private Jet Market with Electric VTOL Aircraft

Midnight's Flight Test Program

In parallel with the Midnight flight test program, Archer intends to sustain Maker's flight testing initiatives and engage in simulated commercial routes. These endeavors aim to strengthen the company's operational readiness for the impending launch.

Archer's overarching objective is to revolutionize urban transportation by offering electric air taxi flights that substantially reduce travel times, replacing protracted ground commutes.

The Midnight, a piloted aircraft with a capacity for four passengers, is engineered to facilitate rapid successive flights with minimal downtime for recharging.

Archer's venture focuses on the development of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft tailored for integration into urban air mobility networks.

With a mission to redefine how individuals move and utilize their time, Archer's dedicated team operates out of Santa Clara, California. Midnight's first flight happened 10 days after announcing an agreement to implement air taxi operations in the United Arab Emirates.

Archer Aviation is reportedly poised to launch air taxi operations in Abu Dhabi by 2026. This move marks Archer's foray into international markets, extending beyond its American base.

Related Article: Jump Aero Reveals New Design of JA1 Pulse-An Ambulance-Beating eVTOL Aircraft!

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Listening to music, a practice spanning centuries for its potential to alleviate pain, has recently been examined by Canadian researchers to pinpoint which elements of this experience contribute to diminished pain perception.

According to Frontiers, this study shows that participants reported reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness when listening to their favorite music as opposed to pre-selected calming melodies commonly used in clinical settings.

Additionally, unlike other emotionally charged genres, music with bittersweet undertones further mitigated the unpleasantness associated with pain.

Music as Drug-Free Method to Alleviate Pain

This study delved into music's potential as a drug-free method to diminish pain perception, known as hypoalgesia. This phenomenon arises when pain signals are disrupted between their point of origin and the conscious mind's recognition of them as pain.

The study, conducted by Darius Valevicius, a doctoral student at the Universite de Montreal in collaboration with the Roy Pain Lab at McGill University, underscores the significant impact of personally favored music on acute thermal pain reduction, surpassing the effects of unfamiliar calming tunes.

The researchers found that emotional responses are crucial in determining music's impact on pain perception. To determine the most effective genre of music for pain relief, participants were exposed to mildly uncomfortable thermal stimuli on their inner forearms, simulating the sensation of a hot teacup against the skin.

Each stimulus was accompanied by music excerpts lasting about seven minutes. In comparison to control tracks or periods of silence, individuals showed a notable reduction in both the intensity and discomfort of pain when listening to their favored music.

On the contrary, unfamiliar calming melodies did not produce the same outcome, indicating that the influence was not solely attributed to distraction or the presence of sound.

Furthermore, the researchers delved into how distinct emotional themes embedded in music could adjust its capacity to alleviate pain. Participants were also interviewed regarding their emotional reactions to their preferred music, with themes falling into categories such as energizing/activating, happy/cheerful, calming/relaxing, and moving/bittersweet.

Read Also: Language Learning App Duolingo to Add 'Hundreds of Bite-Sized Lessons'-Now Gamified?

'Musical Chills'

The study found that various emotional themes differed in their ability to alleviate pain. Reports of moving or bittersweet emotional experiences correlated with lower ratings of pain unpleasantness, attributed to heightened enjoyment of the music and increased occurrences of "musical chills."

These chills, while not fully understood, appeared to signify a neurophysiological process effective in blocking pain signals, according to the research. The study acknowledged its limitations, including the duration of music exposure.

Further research is warranted to explore the effectiveness of favorite music in contexts beyond thermal pain stimuli and its application to chronic pain or mechanical stimulation.

Valevicius emphasized the pioneering nature of their exploration into the psychological dimensions of pain relief through music, particularly in the context of emotional themes, indicating a wealth of untapped research potential in this area.

The research team's findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Pain Research.

Related Article: Music Industry Hits 1 Trillion Streams in Just Three Months in 2023, Fastest Pace Ever

 2023 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Hundreds of long-lost Roman Empire forts have been unveiled through declassified spy satellite images, shedding new light on the ancient empire's eastern frontiers.

Space.com reports that these 396 forts, revealed by images taken during Cold War spy sattelites in the 1960s and 1970s, have challenged existing theories and provided valuable insights into the Roman Empire's border security and intercultural exchanges.

Unearthing Lost Roman Empire Forths

The study, led by Jesse Casana, a professor of anthropology at Dartmouth College, used high-resolution imagery from the Corona Project (1960-1972) and Hexagon (1971-1986) to uncover a vast network of Roman forts spread across modern-day Syria and Iraq.

The findings challenge an earlier theory proposed by Antoine Poidebard, a French archaeologist in the 1930s, suggesting that these forts were a defensive barrier against eastern threats.

The newly discovered forts, unlike Poidebard's theory, do not follow a distinct north-south pattern, instead appearing scattered across the region. This indicates that they were not erected primarily for defense but served a different purpose.

The Roman Empire began around 27 BCE and was a vast and complex entity stretching from Britain to Egypt. As the centuries passed, maintaining its borders became increasingly challenging due to factors such as political instability, nomadic incursions, and the empire's sheer size.

The newly discovered forts, believed to have been built between the second and sixth centuries CE, provide a fresh perspective. The high density of these forts suggests that they were constructed to safeguard trade routes and facilitate communication and intercultural exchanges rather than to create an impenetrable defensive line.

Read Also: Study on Mummified Mice Found Atop Sky-High Andean Volcanoes Suggests These Mammals Were Not Brought There for Incan Rituals

What This Discovery Holds

The significance of these findings lies in the new understanding of the Roman Empire's frontiers and in preserving a historical landscape that has been significantly altered by modern development.

Casana tells CNN that urbanization, agriculture, and dam construction have led to the destruction of many archaeological sites, highlighting the importance of preserving this rich history through declassified satellite images.

These satellite images are publicly available through the US Geological Survey, making them accessible to researchers and archaeologists. The process of analyzing and georeferencing these images is extensive, but it provides a unique resource for historical and archaeological research.

The study, known as the "Corona Atlas Project," serves as a database for Middle Eastern archaeological sites, aiding in the location and preservation of historical sites threatened by various factors, including urbanization and climate change.

This discovery also challenges our understanding of ancient borders. Borders were not impenetrable barriers but rather hubs of cultural exchange and trade.

This perspective holds relevance even in the modern world, with archaeologist Jesse Casana telling CNN that history has shown the futility of building massive walls to keep people out.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: 5,000-Year-Old Sealed Wine Jars Unearthed in Tomb of Egypt's First Female Pharaoh

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Telegram, the popular messaging app, has banned access to channels linked with the Palestinian militant group Hamas to address concerns about spreading misinformation and propaganda during the ongoing crisis in the region.

The company's actions were taken in response to mounting pressure from critics and have primarily affected Android users.

Channels Blocked

CNBC reports that Telegram blocked access to two prominent Hamas channels: "hamas_com" and "al-Qassam brigades," the latter being the military wing of Hamas.

When Android users attempted to access these channels, they were greeted with a message that read: "Unfortunately, this channel can't be displayed on Telegram apps downloaded from the Google Play Store."

According to The Jerusalem Post, Telegram attributed its restrictions to Google's app store guidelines.

This move raises questions about whether similar actions will be taken for iOS users.

Notably, other Hamas-affiliated channels, including "Gaza Now" with over 1.6 million subscribers, remain accessible on Telegram.

The Ongoing Conflict and Misinformation

The blocking of these channels comes amid the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.

The situation escalated on October 7 when Hamas launched a significant surprise attack on Israel, the largest such attack in decades.

This event, like many others in recent history, emphasizes the responsibility of social media firms to prevent the spread of misinformation and propaganda during times of crisis.

Read Also: Spotify's Royalty Model is Changing with More Eligibility to Earn from the Streams

Similar Moves from Big Tech

This action against Hamas channels is reminiscent of social media companies' responses following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Companies such as Meta, Google, and Twitter (now known as X) faced similar pressures to crack down on pro-Russian propaganda and misinformation on their platforms.

According to The Verge, both Meta and X have stated that they have taken steps to block Hamas-linked accounts and curb the propagation of misinformation about the war on their platforms.

The European Union has warned companies like X and Meta, cautioning them that they face investigations and potential penalties under the Digital Services Act.

This landmark regulation demands that tech companies clean their platforms of illegal and harmful content, particularly concerning misinformation regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Telegram CEO's Perspective

Telegram's CEO, Pavel Durov, had previously resisted calls to remove Hamas's presence on the app.

He argued in a recent Telegram post that the group had been a crucial source of information about the war, even using the platform to warn civilians in Ashkelon to leave the area ahead of missile strikes.

Durov stated that the decision to remove such channels is not straightforward, as it could either save or endanger lives, further complicating the already dire situation.

Google's Policy and Moderation

Telegram attributed the block to Google's app store guidelines, stating that the channels could not be viewed on Telegram apps downloaded from the Google Play Store.

A Google spokesperson confirmed their policy banning violent content related to terrorism within apps. This stance has implications for how platforms like Telegram are managed on Android devices.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Telegram Exposes User IP Addresses During Calls, Security Expert Warns

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The newest smartphone lineup, Xiaomi 14 series is all set for its launch on Thursday, Oct. 26. The company says that only a limited number of units will be distributed on its debut date.

The regular Xiaomi 14 and the Xiaomi 14 Pro will be equipped with Snapdragon 8 Gen 8 SoC. According to 91Mobiles, the said products will be first released in China.

Xiaomi is Teasing Fans About Xiaomi 14

Since Monday, Oct. 23 Xiaomi has been consistently teasing the exciting features of these upcoming phones. With just a day left before the grand unveiling, the Chinese brand has some fantastic news for its eager fans.

According to Gizmochina's report, the smartphone maker has a special collaboration with JD.com for this Xiaomi 14 sale event. As of writing, only 2,000 units will be available for purchase so if you want to get one, hurry up before it's too late.

While the exact memory configurations and color variants available for purchase will remain a mystery until the sale commences, it's confirmed that 1,000 units each of Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro will be up for grabs.

What Can Xiaomi Customers Get From This Deal?

Customers who successfully order either of these two cutting-edge smartphones will enjoy an array of perks. Along with the new phone, they will receive a complimentary Xiaomi City Backpack 2nd Gen and a generous 50 JD voucher.

That's not all - buyers can also take advantage of up to 24 months of no-cost EMI, an exchange offer of up to 1,400, and a fantastic 40% discount on an official warranty extension.

Related Article: Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro New Leaks: Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 Chip Packed With 466 X 466 Display Resolution

Xiaomi 14 is Set to Compete With Other Smartphones

The Xiaomi 14 and Xiaomi 14 Pro are poised to take the stage as the world's first Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 smartphones. With a plethora of details already available from various sources, you can get a sneak peek into what these remarkable devices have to offer.

For the full specifications of Xiaomi 14 Pro, check the information provided by GSM Arena.

Network: GSM / CDMA / HSPA / CDMA2000 / LTE / 5G

Dimensions: 161.4 x 75.3 x 8.5 mm

Weight: 223 g or 230 g (7.87 oz)

Build: Glass front, aluminum frame or titanium frame, glass back

SIM: Nano-SIM and eSIM or Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)

IP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)

Display: LTPO AMOLED, 68B colors, 120Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 3000 nits (peak)

Size: 6.73 inches, 108.9 cm2 (~89.6% screen-to-body ratio)

Resolution: 1440 x 3200 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~522 ppi density)

Protection: Longjing Glass

OS: Android 14, HyperOS

Chipset: Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm)

CPU: Octa-core (1x3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 5x3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.3 GHz Cortex-A520)

GPU: Adreno 750

Card slot: No

Internal: 256GB 12GB RAM, 512GB 16GB RAM, 1TB 16GB RAM

UFS 4.0

Triple Camera: 50 MP, f/1.4-f/4.0, 23mm (wide), 1/1.31", 1.2m, dual pixel PDAF, Laser AF, OIS, 50 MP, f/2.0, 75mm (telephoto), PDAF (10cm - ), OIS, 3.2x optical zoom, 50 MP, f/2.2, 14mm, 115 (ultrawide), AF

Features: Leica lens, Dual-LED dual-tone flash, HDR, panorama

Video: 8K@24fps (HDR), 4K@24/30/60fps (HDR10+, 10-bit Dolby Vision HDR, 10-bit LOG), 1080p@30/60/120/240/960fps, 720p@1920fps, gyro-EIS

Selfie Camera: 32 MP (Wide)

Features: HDR, panorama

Video: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps, gyro-EIS

Loudspeaker: Yes, with stereo speakers

3.5mm jack: No, 24-bit/192kHz audio

Sensors: Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, proximity, gyro, compass, barometer, color spectrum

Battery: Li-Po 4880 mAh, non-removable

Charging: 120W wired, PD3.0, QC4, 100% in 18 min (advertised), 50W wireless, 100% in 40 min (advertised), 10W reverse wireless

Colors: Black, Silver, Green, Titanium

Price: Around 650 EUR

More to Come For Xiaomi

Aside from Xiaomi 14 handsets, the company is rolling out new items on the line including the Xiaomi TV S Pro MiniLed 85-inch, Xiaomi Watch S3, and HyperOS. This could be a jam-packed announcement that every fan is waiting for.

Read Also: Motorola Unveils New AI Features and Adaptive Display Devices at Lenovo Tech World 2023

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Osteoarthritis, a painful condition where bone grinds against bone due to cartilage degradation, affects over 500 million people worldwide, with the knee being the most commonly afflicted joint, according to the World Health Organization.

While surgeries are prevalent to address this issue, they do not always yield the desired results, and adults typically struggle to regenerate lost cartilage.

But here is the exciting news: researchers at the University of Connecticut have made a significant breakthrough, offering hope to osteoarthritis patients worldwide. Their revolutionary gel injection might provide repair without surgery (via Medical Xpress).

A Game Changer for Osteoarthritis Patients

Osteoarthritis, often called "wear and tear" arthritis, gradually diminishes the protective cartilage in our joints. When this cartilage wears away completely, it leaves sufferers with excruciating pain and limited mobility.

Surgical interventions are common, but they have their limitations. This new discovery is groundbreaking because it introduces a non-invasive solution for regenerating damaged cartilage, a potential game-changer for countless individuals battling osteoarthritis.

Biomedical engineers have been working on scaffolds compatible with human cartilage, which can stimulate regrowth when implanted into the knee.

However, these regenerative solutions still require invasive surgery. The breakthrough comes from making a regenerative scaffold injectable, significantly reducing patient discomfort and recovery time.

UConn biomedical engineer Thanh Nguyen, leading a collaborative team of researchers from UConn, UConn Health, Peking University School, and Eli Lilly, has spearheaded this innovative project.

The team has developed an injectable treatment known as a "piezoelectric hydrogel," a material capable of generating electricity when activated by ultrasound.

Interesting Findings

In the laboratory setting, the researchers found that when ultrasound was applied to the piezoelectric hydrogel, it enhanced cell movement and encouraged stem cells to release a crucial substance called TGF-1.

This substance plays a pivotal role in cartilage repair, promising a more effective and less invasive treatment for osteoarthritis.

The next step was to test this groundbreaking gel on rabbits with damaged joints. The results were nothing short of remarkable.

Rabbits that received the gel treatment and ultrasound showed improved bone formation beneath the cartilage, enhanced cartilage structure, and notably stronger joints. The treated joints appeared almost as healthy as those in rabbits, with no damage at all.

Read Also: Scientists Uncover 'Kill Switch' to Obliterate Cancerous Tumors Internally

Implications of the Study

What makes this discovery even more exciting is its potential for broader applications in regenerative medicine. This piezoelectric hydrogel isn't limited to cartilage repair but could also be used to repair other tissues in the body.

This aspect of the research has far-reaching implications for the field of regenerative tissue engineering, hinting at a future where we can tackle a variety of tissue-related health issues with minimally invasive procedures.

What's in the News?

With the potential to transform the lives of millions of osteoarthritis sufferers, this discovery could offer a non-surgical solution to a condition that has plagued humanity for centuries.

As the study suggests, this piezoelectric hydrogel's potential reaches far beyond cartilage repair, promising new horizons in regenerative tissue engineering.

Stay posted here at Tech Times.

Related Article: Tiny Soft Robots Designed for Delicate Medical Procedures Are Uniquely Made From Plant-Based Hydrogel

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Elon Musk has made waves again, but not for a revolutionary project. Musk offered to contribute $1 billion to Wikipedia with a whimsical twist.

In his typical tone, the founder of SpaceX and Tesla made it clear that there was a catch to this kind of offer: Wikipedia would have to rebrand itself as "Dickipedia." Elon Musk said his unusual request was for accuracy, adding playfulness to his proposal.

Elon Musk's unusual offer to Wikipedia rapidly attracted the attention of X (formerly Twitter) users worldwide. A user urged Wikipedia to take up the challenge, and Musk, never one to pass up a chance for comedy by adding a twist: Wikipedia would have to keep the name "Dickipedia" for a minimum of one year, as reported by India Today.

The tech magnate posted a snapshot of Wikipedia's main page with the prominent notice, "Wikipedia is not for sale," to support his idea. Another addition to the site was a "personal appeal from Jimmy Wales," one of the Wikipedia co-founders. Musk joked that the Wikimedia Foundation did not require such large donations as Wikipedia's whole text could fit on a smartphone. Jokingly, he requested this information for his Wikipedia page.

Elon Musk carried on the lighthearted social media conversation by asking Wikipedia to add an emoji of a cow and a poop to his Wikipedia article, which attracted lots of attention on X, which he purchased last year.

I will give them a billion dollars if they change their name to Dickipedia https://t.co/wxoHQdRICy  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 22, 2023

Wikipedia Founder Replies

Jimmy Wales, the founder of Wikipedia, seems to have responded to Elon Musk's offer in a statement headlined "Wikipedia: not beholden to anyone but you" on the website, as reported by Unilad. Wales asked visitors to consider paying $3 to the Wikimedia Foundation for the value they have gained from Wikipedia.

He recognized in other parts of the world the difficulties of navigating the internet in a world full of fraudsters and false information.

Read Also: AI Brings the Beatles Back: 'Now And Then' to Drop Next Week

Elon Musk and Wikipedia have already engaged in the past. Jimmy Wales has lambasted Musk for suppressing Recep Tayyip Erdogan's detractors before a pivotal election. Musk had granted Turkey's request to impose content restrictions, contrary to Wales' position. Wales said that Wikipedia had fought free speech in a similar circumstance, even bringing it to the Turkish Supreme Court.

In response, Elon Musk offered two options at the time: completely shut down Twitter or limit access to certain messages, with no clarity on which option would prevail.

Notably, Turkey's laws permitted the blocking of websites judged offensive or a danger to national security, which is why Wikipedia was restricted there for more than two years.

Elon Musk's Other Firm is Now Worth $7 Billion

In a piece of separate news, Elon Musk's business, The Boring Company, recently attained an implied worth of $7 billion via the sale of investor and employee shares. The amount at which these shares were sold was 22% more than what the firm had asked for during its last investment round.

According to The Street, the firm's shares were reportedly valued at $24 each, compared to $19 apiece during the company's $675 million Series C investment round in April of the previous year. Currently, it's speculated that the Boring Company allowed investors to purchase additional shares worth as much as $20 million during its recent sale.

The primary appeal of The Boring Company is its ability to utilize advanced technology to increase tunneling speed and decrease expenses. Their machine, named 'Prufrock', can dig a mile in just one week, representing a major advancement in tunnel construction. It is expected that its later versions will exhibit even higher efficiency.

Related Article: Meta Reports High Q3 Profits Due to Boost in Ad Revenue

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday inaugurated the National Data Administration (NDA). Here is a quick summary of why it was established, its functions, and what it means for the digital economy.

FUNCTIONS

The NDA's establishment was first unveiled in March in a plan on reforming Party and state institutions released by the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council.

According to the plan, the NDA is responsible for setting up data-related fundamental mechanisms, coordinating the integration, sharing, development, and application of data resources, and advancing the planning and building of a Digital China, a digital economy, and a digital society. Its functions also include promoting smart cities, implementing the national strategy on big data, and improving digital infrastructure.

Experts believe the new government agency will help modernize China's governance capacity, open a new chapter of building a Digital China, and contribute to the development of the global digital economy.

MAJOR SIGNIFICANCE

The digital economy is playing an increasingly important role in upgrading traditional industries and building new growth drivers. China generated about 8.1 zettabytes of data last year, the second highest in the world.

The NDA's establishment will help make better use of these huge data resources.

Zhang Li, head of the China Center for Information Industry Development, expects the NDA to activate data productivity. Digital innovation in areas from the Internet to big data and artificial intelligence will be accelerated, and the integration of digital technologies with the real economy will also be promoted.

PIONEERING WORK

As China is the first country to list data as a factor of production, the NDA needs to promote its work in many unexplored areas.

Zhang Li believes an important task of the NDA is making rules and systems for data property rights protection, data circulation, and transaction, public data authorized operation, and the oversight of cross-border data flows, among others.

The NDA should give full play to data's role as a fundamental resource and innovation driver so as to help build a new development pattern and a modern economy for the country, said Yu Xiaohui, head of the China Academy of Information and Communications Technology. 
OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) research firm, launched an initiative to address the "catastrophic risks" of AI. The newly created team, "Preparedness," evaluates and probes AI models to guard against advanced AI system threats.

According to TechCrunch, Aleksander Madry, the director of MIT's Center for Deployable Machine Learning, is in charge of the OpenAI Preparedness team. Madry adds a plethora of experience to the project as he took on the post of "head of preparedness" at OpenAI in May. With Madry on board, OpenAI is ready to take on the most important AI problems.

The preparedness team monitors, forecasts, and protects against various AI-related hazards ranging from AI systems' capacity to write hazardous code to their capacity to influence and deceive people, as demonstrated by phishing attacks.

Preventing Human Extinction

A noteworthy feature of the Open AI Preparedness team is how it examines risk categories that can seem out of the ordinary. In a blog article, the firm expresses its worries about "chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear" risks concerning AI models. This wide range highlights the seriousness of the issues OpenAI is committed to resolving.

Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has often voiced his worries about the far-reaching effects of artificial intelligence. He has often hinted that AI would cause "human extinction." OpenAI's decision to devote resources to looking into situations that resemble the plotlines of science fiction books demonstrates its commitment to minimizing the potential risks associated with AI.

Read Also: Elon Musk to Donate $1 Billion to Wikipedia for Name Change: Wikipedia Founder Responds

OpenAI has unveiled a community engagement initiative as part of its mission to promote cooperation and common knowledge. With the formation of the Preparedness team, the organization is seeking worldwide AI risk study proposals. According to GVS, the top 10 entries will be given a chance to earn a $25,000 award and perhaps even a spot on the Preparedness team, as OpenAI seeks varied viewpoints to better understand and manage AI dangers.

We are building a new Preparedness team to evaluate, forecast, and protect against the risks of highly-capable AIfrom today's models to AGI.



Goal: a quantitative, evidence-based methodology, beyond what is accepted as possible: https://t.co/8lwtfMR1Iy  OpenAI (@OpenAI) October 26, 2023

AI is Expected to Exceed Human Intelligence

Additionally, OpenAI has tasked the Preparedness team with developing a "risk-informed development policy." This policy will provide a thorough framework for governance structures, risk mitigation techniques, monitoring tools, and assessments of AI models. It is intended to supplement OpenAI's current efforts in the field of AI safety, with an emphasis on the preand postmodel execution stages.

The launching of the Preparedness team comes as Open AI CEO Sam Altman and Ilya Sutskever, the AI firm's co-founder and chief scientist, expressed certainty that within the next 10 years, AI may exceed human intellect. Thus, researching methods to restrict and regulate superintelligent AI is crucial to guarantee ethical and safe AI development.

In the meantime, as per an AIM report, there is a lot of conjecture in the tech community in advance of the next OpenAI DevDay conference. Speculation is that OpenAI may present its first completely autonomous agent, a milestone that might lead to artificial general intelligence (AGI). Though, Sam Altman emphasized subsequently that he was making fun of his past clues of the accomplishment of AGI, the upcoming tech event promises to be exciting, capturing AI community interest.

Related Article: UCC Study Reveals How Wartime Deepfakes Blur Reality in Russia-Ukraine War

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The trending "Kia Challenge" on TikTok might be a fun thing to try but for car owners, this poses serious danger for their vehicles.

That is why Hyundai stepped up on Wednesday, Oct. 25 by releasing an update for its anti-theft software. The carmaker finally launched a series of clinics in the US to address the issue.

What is TikTok 'Kia Challenge' All About?

The "Kia Challenge," a viral trend making waves on TikTok and YouTube, is causing a significant uptick in car thefts involving Kia and Hyundai models across the United States. This trend has taken an alarming turn, leaving many car owners concerned about the safety of their vehicles.

As its name suggests, it's an online trend that demonstrates, rather disturbingly, how to steal select Kia and Hyundai models. Perpetrators achieve this by merely removing the plastic cowl beneath the steering column and utilizing a common USB cable. What started as a reckless online challenge has escalated into a real problem with tangible consequences.

Related Article: Samsung's Batteries will be on Hyundai's Electric Vehicles by 2026

What Happened So Far?

Milwaukee, WI, has become a focal point for this issue, with a group of young teenagers dubbing themselves the "Kia Boys." These individuals have gained notoriety for stealing Kia and Hyundai vehicles and recklessly taking them on joyrides. Their actions have led to an increase in car thefts and dangerous incidents in the area.

The surge in car thefts isn't confined to Milwaukee alone. St. Petersburg, FL, has witnessed an alarming pattern, with 23 out of 56 cars stolen since July 11 being Kia and Hyundai models from the year 2021 or older. Local authorities are urging Hyundai and Kia owners to exercise caution, encouraging everyone to lock their vehicles securely.

Vulnerable Models

According to St. Petersburg Police Department Sgt. Cody Lance, Kia models from 2011 and 2012, and Hyundai models from 2015 to 2021 exhibit vulnerabilities that allow for easy bypassing of the ignition system. Most of the culprits behind these thefts fall within the age range of 14 to 17.

Hyundai Rolls Out Anti-Theft Software Upgrade

Based on Gizmodo's report, Hyundai is taking proactive steps to address the issue by notifying eligible customers about an anti-theft software upgrade. The upgrade extends the car's alarm duration from 30 seconds to one minute and mandates the physical insertion of the key in the ignition to start the engine. Moreover, the automaker aims to provide this upgrade to several models to enhance security.

As a car owner, it's crucial to protect your vehicle. Locking your car, using steering wheel locks, and parking vulnerable models behind other vehicles can be effective deterrents. Stay vigilant and ensure that your car is safeguarded against theft.

Read Also: GM and Honda Abandon Plans for Affordable Electric Vehicles: Reasons Behind the Decision

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Brazilian scientists announced a breakthrough in drug addiction therapy with the development of a vaccine to combat crack cocaine and cocaine addiction in a nation with a notably high cocaine usage rate.



The cocaine vaccine, called "Calixcoca," is intended to elicit an immune response that stops cocaine and crack from entering the brain, thereby ending the cycle of addiction. It has shown considerable promise in animal testing, as per a report published by Barron's.

How Does It Work?

The basic idea behind Calixcoca is that crack addicts who get the vaccination will not get the euphoric high that comes with using the illegal substance. This method focuses on a highly addictive substance, demonstrating a fresh and potentially groundbreaking strategy for combating drug addiction worldwide.

The head of the Calixcoca team at the Federal University of Minas Gerais, Psychiatrist Frederico Garcia, believes that should regulators give the go-ahead, it would be ground-breaking as this is the first time a vaccine would be used to treat cocaine dependency. The innovative therapy's potential impact is evidenced by making it to the top spot of the Euro Health Innovation Awards for Latin American Medicine.



The cocaine vaccine functions by instigating an immune response in patients, leading to the production of antibodies that latch onto cocaine particles present in the blood, per WION. Bigger molecules too large to pass through the brain's pleasure hub, known as the mesolimbic system, are formed as a result of this attachment. This region usually releases dopamine - a neurotransmitter linked with pleasure - due to cocaine.

Read Also: OpenAI's New 'Preparedness' Team Focuses on Countering 'Catastrophic' AI Risks, 'Human Extinction'



The results of studies on animals were positive, showing a significant rise in antibody levels against cocaine with few reported side effects. However, Calixcoca is currently being tested on humans. Surprisingly, the vaccination has also shown promise in shielding rat fetuses from the harmful effects of cocaine exposure during pregnancy, which may protect the unborn children of addicts who are pregnant.

Cocaine Vaccine Human Trials Coming Soon

The move to human trials is the next crucial stage for Calixcoca and will be a significant turning point in the creation of this innovative medicine. According to Dr. Garcia, the crack vaccination intends to help those who are "off cocaine and want to stay that way," the Daily Star reported.

Emphasizing the goal, the vaccine will soon address the immediate need for effective remedies for cocaine dependence rather than offering a generic solution. A quarter of cocaine users become addicted, and only one in four cease after five years of therapy, according to the US National Institute on Drug Abuse.

There is an increasing interest in the crack vaccine with over 3,000 volunteers showing enthusiasm in participating in its clinical trials. Calixcoca is beginning to get attention for its potential to revolutionize the area of drug addiction therapy and provide hope to those battling cocaine dependence.

Related Article: Amazon's Virtual Clinic Introduces Telehealth for Quick Relief from Cough, Cold, and Flu: Here's How It Works

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A group of academic researchers has developed a speculative execution attack named iLeakage that can extract sensitive data, such as passwords and emails, on recent Apple devices via the Safari web browser.

iLeakage has been developed by a team of academics from Georgia Tech, the University of Michigan, and Ruhr University Bochum after extensive examination of Safaris side-channel resilience. They have also published a paper and website warning users about the threat.

This attack is the first demonstration of a speculative execution attack against Apple Silicon CPUs and the Safari browser. The vulnerability affects Macs and iPhones from 2020 and onwards that were built with Apples Arm-based A-series and M-series chips.

The researchers created a proof-of-concept exploit implementing iLeakage as a malicious website that can exploit a side-channel vulnerability in Apple native silicon (A-series and M-series CPUs) running iOS and macOS devices, allowing data leakage.

They achieved this by abusing Safaris site isolation policy, demonstrating a new technique that allows the attacker page to share the address space with arbitrary victim pages by opening them using the JavaScript window.open API.

By constructing in-browser eviction sets and side-stepping Safaris timer mitigations, the researchers were able to finally bypass Apples compressed 35-bit addressing and value poisoning countermeasures using speculative type confusion, thereby allowing the researchers to leak sensitive data, such as passwords and emails, from a targeted Mac or iPhone.

Thus, we created an attacker page that binds window.open to an onmouseover event listener, allowing us to open any web page in our address space whenever the target has their mouse cursor on the page, the teams research paper says.

We note that even if the target closes the opened page, the contents in memory are not scrubbed immediately, allowing our attack to continue disclosing secrets.

The iLeakage attack is executed using JavaScript and WebAssembly, the two programming languages for delivering dynamic web content.

As showcased in demo videos (1)(2)(3), the researchers were able to recover Gmail messages in Safari running an iPad and an Instagram test account password that was auto-filled in the Safari web browser using the LastPass password management service, as well as the YouTube watch history from Chrome for iOS.

We show how an attacker can induce Safari to render an arbitrary webpage, subsequently recovering sensitive information present within it using speculative execution, the researchers wrote on an informational website.

In particular, we demonstrate how Safari allows a malicious webpage to recover secrets from popular high-value targets, such as Gmail inbox content. Finally, we demonstrate the recovery of passwords, in case these are auto-filled by credential managers.

According to the researchers, the flaw has the potential to affect all browsers on iOS due to Apples policy that requires all third-party iOS browsers to use its WebKit engine. Thankfully, this speculative execution attack requires a high level of technical knowledge, which is why it doesnt appeal to cyber criminals.

Apple was notified about the vulnerability by the researchers on September 12, 2022. Since then, the company has only implemented a manual mitigation method for macOS to protect the users, the team says. Also, the mitigation works against Macs only when running Safari.

Apple says it is aware of the vulnerability and assures of a more permanent fix that will be included in a future software release. You can visit the iLeakage page for instructions on how to activate the mitigation.

When Apple pushes the mitigation to production, we expect it to completely protect users from our attack, added Jason Kim, a PhD student at Georgia Tech, who worked on the team.

We have not heard from Apple on how their mitigation affects their browser performance benchmarks, or when the mitigations will be deployed to customers.
President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola attends a press conference during the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

BRUSSELS, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia.

The summit is the first in-person meeting of the EU's 27 national leaders since the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) on Oct. 7 showered Israel with thousands of rockets in a rare surprise attack. In response, Israel launched massive airstrikes on Gaza and imposed punitive measures, including power outages.

The summit participants are expected to discuss the unfolding situation in the Middle East, which has sparked disagreements within the bloc over how to handle it.

"The conflict in the Middle East is a tragedy," European Council President Charles Michel said in a press release ahead of the summit, adding that "the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to be of grave concern."

"We need to discuss, firstly, how to urgently ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian aid, and access to the most basic needs. Secondly, we must engage, in a united and coherent front, with partners to avoid a dangerous regional escalation of the conflict. Furthermore, relaunching the peace process based on the two-state solution is the only way forward. Lastly, we should address the effects of this conflict in the European Union - this includes looking at its implications for the cohesion of our societies, our security and migratory movements," he said.

The summit participants will also discuss the EU's continued support for Ukraine. "I would like us to address in particular ways to accelerate the delivery of military support," Michel said in the release.

The EU's long-term budget, the economy, migration and external relations are also on the agenda. 

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo (L), President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola (C) and President of Romania Klaus Werner Iohannis (R) talk during the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban speaks to media as he arrives for the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen arrives for the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas (L) talks with President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen during the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

European Council President Charles Michel is pictured as he attends the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Spain's acting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez arrives for the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte arrives for the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen arrives for the EU summit in Brussels, Belgium, on Oct. 26, 2023. European Union (EU) leaders meet here on Thursday and Friday in a planned European Council summit, focusing on the conflicts between Israel and Hamas and between Ukraine and Russia. (Xinhua/Zhao Dingzhe)
As a result of a violent collision, remnants of the primordial planet could still be found in the Earth's mantle

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Juliette Binoche in the same film as her ex Benoit Magimel: the actress reveals how their reunion went

A house that doubled as a cafeteria burned down "The smell of burning after the sound of a lightning strike" Akita

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This photo taken with a mobile phone shows a girl telling stories of the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-1953) to tourists in Ji'an City, northeast China's Jilin Province, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua)

CHANGCHUN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The nine-year-old girl decided not to wash her right hand the evening after, like in a dream, the grandson of a war hero in her story appeared and shook hands with her in gratitude.

"He made me feel that what I am doing is meaningful," said Zhang Qianyuan, a student in the Ji'an City of northeast China's Jilin Province who is among the junior volunteer guides telling stories of the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-1953) to tourists.

Ji'an, which overlooks the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) across the Yalu River, witnessed the departure of about 420,000 soldiers in the Chinese People's Volunteer Army 73 years ago. Proud of her hometown, the third-grader works as a guide at the Yalu River border bridge scenic area. It was through this bridge that the first Chinese troops left for the battlefield in October 1950.

"It was also through this bridge that supplies were sent to the frontline," she said. At the end of her introduction, Zhang would always sing the song of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army.

Since 2003, there have been more than 1,500 such student volunteers as Zhang, who, after receiving training from professionals, went to various historical sites to tell visitors the heroic stories of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army.

"Our aim is to encourage our children to get involved in social activities while learning about the history so as to foster their love for their hometown and the motherland," said Liu Jinzhu, a Communist Youth League official with Ji'an City.

Selection of the junior volunteers starts in April each year in primary and middle schools. "There were usually lots of applicants, and this year, we selected 150 students," she told Xinhua. "We have professional trainers teaching them pronunciation, gesture, facial expression, and how to communicate with visitors, while local tour guides teach them the history that they are supposed to tell others."

Teaching is one thing, while understanding is another.

Zhang Qianyuan was selected three years ago. "At first, she was merely reciting what she was taught," said her mother Sun Lianhua, who herself is a tour guide.

To help her understand the war better, her mom would show her some films and documentaries. "Now she could not only understand that history but also add some of the details and stories from the films into her own introduction," Sun said.

Occasionally, Zhang could meet with some special visitors.

One of them was the grandson of hero Qu Hongyi, who led a team of stretchers to capture more than 20 enemies. "He shook hands with me and thanked me for passing on the stories," the girl recalled.

She has also met an 88-year-old veteran soldier from the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, Nan Qixiang. Nan joined in the army at 12 when his task was blowing the bugle.

Showing Xinhua a calligraphy piece, Zhang said happily that it was a gift from Nan and the characters on it was Fen Dou, or striving.

She admitted that during school holidays, she also wished to have a rest or travel outside her hometown. But she would spend lots of time being a volunteer tour guide because the work is "rewarding."

The view was echoed by Lin Junyi, another primary school student who works as a volunteer guide. "I would like to tell more people that my hometown is a heroic city, which played an important role in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea. I am proud of my hometown," he said.

Ding Xinyang was a tourist from central China's Hunan Province, which is more than 2,000 kilometers away from Ji'an. He filmed the introduction of a student tour guide and planned to share it on social media.

"I have been to many tourist attractions and I was touched here by these young volunteers," he said. "From their introduction, I know that the history was not forgotten, and the heroic stories some 70 years ago, as well as the spirit, are still being passed on." 
BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged here on Thursday all members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to jointly push forward the Belt and Road cooperation, and further promote the construction of major economic corridors.

Li made the remarks while addressing the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States. 
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Maps drawing the boundaries for congressional and state legislative districts in Georgia violate the Voting Rights Act and must be redrawn, a federal judge has ruled.

The 516-page order from US District Judge Steve C Jones in Atlanta strikes down the maps for discriminating against Black voters and orders state lawmakers to draft new ones by 8 December.

Judge Jones decision on 26 October ordered the creation of one new congressional district with a majority-Black voting population, as well as two new majority-Black state senate districts and five new majority-Black state House districts.

His order marks a victory for Black voters and voting rights advocates in the state, following a string of federal court decisions and cases surrounding discriminatory maps and illegal gerrymanders in several states.

New maps in Georgia also mean that voters are likely to elect a new Democratic representative to the US House of Representatives in 2024 elections.

The decision also could reshape the states general assembly, which currently is dominated by a Republican majority in both the House and Senate.

A lawsuit filed on behalf of civil rights and religious organisations in the state argued that Black residents, who fuelled the states population growth over the last decade, were inadequately represented politically in both the states general assembly and in Congress.

The Court reiterates that Georgia has made great strides since 1965 towards equality in voting, Judge Jones wrote. However, the evidence before this Court shows that Georgia has not reached the point where the political process has equal openness and equal opportunity for everyone.

The state legislature has been on notice since at least the time that this litigation was commenced nearly 22 months ago that new maps might be necessary, the judge wrote.

The General Assembly already has access to an experienced cartographer ... and the General Assembly has an illustrative remedial plan to consult, he added.

Federal courts will determine whether the redrawn maps satisfy the order, but in the event that state officials are unable or unwilling to meet the 8 December deadline, the courts will take the matter out of their hands, according to the judges order.

Republican Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and other parties in the case are likely to appeal, but the US Supreme Court already has rejected similar attempts to preserve gerrymandered political maps in Alabama within the last year.

Earlier this month, a federal court in Alabama selected a new congressional map that will significantly increase Black voting power in the state and likely flip one of the states seats to a Democratic representative.

A decision in a case that reached the Supreme Court last year maintained the states sole district with a majority Black voting population  currently represented by Democratic US Rep Terry Sewell, the states only Black member of Congress  and ordered the creation of a second district with a Black voting age population of just under 49 per cent.

Sophia Lin Lakin, director of the Voting Rights Project at the ACLU, which filed the Georgia lawsuit, said the ruling marks a victory for anyone who believes voting should be fair.

This decision confirms that Black voters were illegally shut out of political opportunities in the state, she said in a statement. The courts ruling is a vital step in ensuring that Black Georgians can participate in the political process on equal terms.

Bishop Reginald T Jackson of the Sixth District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, among the plaintiffs in the case, said the decision corrects a wrong perpetrated upon the citizens of Georgia and Black citizens in particular.

It ensures that the vote of every citizen in Georgia counts and that Black citizens and communities in Georgia have the appropriate representation in Congress and State Houses, he added.
TEHRAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Iran announced Thursday a court ruling demanding the U.S. government pay 420 million dollars in reparations for inflicting material and moral damages on Iranian people during a 1980 military operation.

Citing the ruling issued at an undisclosed date by the 55th branch of the Tehran Court of Justice, the Iranian judiciary said the U.S. military should pay 10 million dollars to each of the 14 plaintiffs, totaling 140 million dollars in compensation for the damages it caused to them in a military mission, codenamed Operation Eagle Claw, in Iran's eastern desert city of Tabas.

The Iranian tribunal also ordered the U.S. government to pay an additional 280 million dollars in punitive damages, reported the Mizan news agency of the Iranian judiciary.

The ruling came after hearing complaints were filed against the U.S. government by 14 plaintiffs, 13 of whom are either the heirs or family members of those killed in the U.S. "terrorist" attack while the rest one was taken hostage during the operation, the report said.

Operation Eagle Claw was a failed rescue mission launched by the U.S. in April 1980, to release 52 staffers at the U.S. embassy who had been held captive in the Iranian capital following the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

The operation failed as the U.S. forces and helicopters were stymied by a sandstorm in the desert.

According to Mizan, during the operation, the U.S. forces attacked a number of civilians, including passengers and drivers traveling on a nearby road, for no particular reason. 
Jennifer Hall was on the job as assistant principal at a northshore elementary school when she missed a call from a stranger who, at that very moment, was stanching the blood pouring from her husband's head in the midst of the chaotic Interstate 55 pileup on Monday.
He also held discussions with Chinas sovereign wealth fund, which has been buying shares and exchange-traded funds in recent weeks in an attempt to shore up a market that has slumped more than 16 per cent since it started to become apparent in early February that China wasnt producing the big economic bounceback from the pandemic that other major economies experienced. The timing of the decision to increase the budget deficit is interesting, coming just ahead of a meeting of the Communist Party next week. That gathering is a financial policy forum held once every five years and can be expected to canvas policy options for dealing with some of the structural challenges China is experiencing. Loading While China did post reasonably solid economic growth of 4.9 per cent in the September quarter, which ought to be sufficient to let it meet its target of annual GDP growth of around 5 per cent, the economy has failed to build any real momentum after the countrys reopening from its stringent zero COVID lockdowns and travel restrictions late last year. The worsening property collapse, consumer caution, weak exports and under-utilised factories, high levels of youth unemployment, the gathering pace of the shifts in global supply chains post-pandemic towards re-shoring, near-shoring and friend-shoring, and the intensifying trade tensions with the US and increasingly Europe, are all weighing on the economy.

It hasnt helped that Beijing cracked down on the big private sector technology and finance companies over the past two years while increasing its support for state-owned entities, effectively trading reduced growth for greater control. The disparity in treatment has been a factor in the private sectors lower contribution to growth. Similarly, the use of revamped espionage laws to raid foreign consultancies and cut off foreign companies access to economic data has scared off foreign investment. Economists within and outside China believe that the challenges the economy is experiencing, in particular the high debt levels and the trauma within the property sector, will constrain growth for some years to come. The growth rates over the next few years are expected to be somewhere between 4 and 5 per cent, a far cry from the high-single-digit growth rates China experienced in pre-pandemic times. Ambitious goals That puts a major question mark over Chinas ambition of toppling the US as the worlds largest economy, and Xis stated ambition of achieving the per capita income of a mid-level developed country by 2035. Chinas per capita income today is around $US21,400 ($34,000).

A New York Federal Reserve Bank research report last week titled Can China catch up with Greece? puts all that  and Xis ambitions  into context. The researchers, Hunter Clark and Matthew Higgins, while unclear as to the peer group Xi was referring to, decided to use the 32 advanced economies with per capita incomes ranging from Greeces $US36,900 to Singapores $US127,600 to assess Chinas prospects of achieving Xis goal. They said China would need to increase its per capita income by 2.3 times to achieve the bottom of the 25th percentile of the advanced economies, requiring an average growth rate of 6.6 per cent to achieve that threshold by 2035. Annual income growth of 4.3 per cent would be needed to match Greeces current level of per capita income. China has achieved those sorts of numbers, or better, in the past. Per capita income grew at a rate of 6.5 per cent between 2009 and 2022 and was in high single-digits in the 1980s and early 1990s. From around 2008, however, the rate of income growth has, using the official data, been slowing. There is, as the researchers noted, considerable scepticism over the accuracy of that official data, which many believe tends to overstate Chinas economic performance. Using adjusted data would show growth slowing to 4.4 per cent from 2009 to 2022 and even below that in the past five years, which would be barely sufficient to make it the bottom of the advanced economy ranks by 2035, they said.

Loading Chinas population is ageing and declining  according to projections from the United Nations, Chinas working age population will shrink by 6 per cent by 2035. There are also diminishing returns from its high levels of investment and, given it already has high levels of productivity, further material growth in productivity is unlikely. The NY Feds researchers expect income growth to be held below 4 per cent. Beyond those factors, there are also the high private sector and local government debt levels, the depressed state of a property sector that (with related activity) used to contribute as much as 30 per cent of GDP, continuing weak consumption and the increasingly centralised and heavy-handed state and Communist Party-led management of the economy in recent years that will weigh on its growth rate. And then there are the trade tensions and the de-risking of supply chains by Chinas major trade partners and the proliferation of export controls aimed at limiting Chinas access to leading edge Western technologies. Thats why the researchers concluded it was unlikely that China could achieve Xis target by 2035.
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Eating outGood Food Guide 2024 These are the 20 best bars in Sydney right now Keen for a ferociously cold martini, mezcal negroni, or a late night kicking back with live jazz? Sydneys thriving bar scene can accommodate all this and much more. Matty Hirsch Callan Boys and October 27, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

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Keen for a ferociously cold martini, mezcal negroni, or a late night kicking back with live jazz? A secret margarita room with tequila-spiked cherry soda? Cabanossi, cheese and an exactingly made Sazerac? Amaro and one of the worlds best sausage rolls? Sydneys thriving bar scene can accommodate all of this and much, much more. The rollicking Baxter Inn has more than 900 whiskies on its list. Domino Postiglione The citys bars continue to go from strength to strength, and were excited for upcoming openings such as The Waratah in Darlinghurst (from former Bulletin Place manager Evan Stroeve and food by Icebergs Alex Prichard), and plush Double Bay jazz den Bobbies courtesy of Neil Perry in partnership with Linden Pride, the Australian-born talent behind New Yorks lauded Dante. All signs point to Caterpillar Club from the Swillhouse team (Shady Pines, Le Foote) being a cracker when it opens for live music in Martin Place later this year, while Enmore Roads after-dark domination is set to continue with The Trocadero Room, a tribute to the glamorous dance palace that operated on George Street between 1937 and 1971. With Pasan Wijesena (Earls Juke Joint) at the helm it will open in the coming weeks, hidden behind a second new venue, The Magpie, a miniature pub for watching the footy. Brilliant. In the meantime, here are our top 20 bars for 2023 (so far). When $24 is the going rate for a cocktail, it darn well better be good and these boozers can provide.

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Chef Jemma Whiteman at Newtown wine bar Ante. Edwina Pickles Ante Nowhere else in town can you tap your toes to a Japanese dub record while sipping cloudy sake with one hand and twirling forkfuls of chef Jemma Whitemans fermented mushroom tagliatelle with the other. Thats exactly what makes this zen-like bolthole such a winner  its a true original, brought to life with a clear-cut sense of purpose and eye for detail. Dont sleep on the highballs either, which easily rank among Sydneys finest. 146 King Street, Newtown, ante.bar Bar Planet in Newtown: very much about martinis. Edwina Pickles

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Bar Planet Martinis (rightfully) occupy so much of the spotlight at Bar Planet that its easy to forget what a tightly edited, well-rounded watering hole it is. Seasonal specials such as a frothy vodka sour brightened by rhubarb and beetroot are always on song, and the ruthlessly spiced popcorn has to be the citys best free bar snack. On the wagon? Theyll whip up something fresh and fruity for you free of charge. Classy. 16 Enmore Road, Newtown, barplanet.com.au The Baxter Inn Whether youre in the zone to sample rare single malts with triple-digit price tags per pour, or just sit on a bowl of pretzels and hoppy brown ale, the white-aproned staff at Baxter knock it out of the handsome, candle-lit basement every time. The whisky list is now more than 900 bottles long, and the Manhattans are as balanced as ever.

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152-156 Clarence Street, Sydney, swillhouse.com/venues/the-baxter-inn Wicked agave cocktails at Cantina OK! Nikki To Cantina OK! How does such an itty-bitty watering hole manage to cram in so much character, quality and expertise? Nearly five years on, that same question still looms large with every visit to this tucked-away temple of tequila, mezcal and other wicked agave distillates with evocative nicknames like Bath Bomb or Saxophone Solo. The Margarita OK!  all shaved ice and orange oil  remains the reviver to beat, but off-piste adventures are just as rewarding. Council Place, Sydney, okokok.com.au

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More than a few meats at Continental, Newtown. Supplied Continental Deli Bar Bistro If venue manager Michael Nicolian is behind the bar, you wont encounter a better Ramos Gin Fizz in Sydney, the New Orleans classic standing tall and proud, with a head like souffle. Even if hes not around, the team at this charming locals favourite can sort you out with a cracking cocktail or wine to accompany charcuterie and a chilled afternoon. Chef Quentin Roquigny also rocks a fine carte of European snacks and share plates. 210 Australia Street, Newtown, continentaldelicatessen.com.au Double Deuce Lounge

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After years of detailed, thorough, exhaustive research, were happy to release the following finding: Double Deuces Stinger is the ultimate nightcap. Cognac, peppermint, Fernet Branca, and mint oil, come on down. Drinker beware, though. With the basement bars 1970s vibes, a soul soundtrack, greased quiffs and warm service, that one last cocktail can go from nightcap to party-starter before you can say more cabanossi and cheese, please. 6 Bridge Street, Sydney, doubledeucelounge.com Earls Juke Joint Few bars make it to the 10-year mark in Sydney. And even fewer do it with as much unwavering consistency as Earls, which remains a spark plug in the Inner Wests now crowded cocktail scene. Indeed, this Joint has an answer to every question you throw at it, backed by skills, smarts and warm hospitality in spades. Call for the beeswaxy, cognac-rich Diabolical Biz, and toast to another decade of distinction. 407 King Street, Newtown, earlsjukejoint.com.au

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Secret candlelit bar La Prima at El Primo Sanchez, Paddington. Declan Blackall El Primo Sanchez This is not a quiet place. Enter through the old pub doors and youre hit with an explosion of canary yellow, mustard, vivid oranges and royal blue. Lights in a recessed ceiling pulse and change colour. Staff shake excellent tequila-based cocktails, attractive people eat tacos, and agave nerds thumb the excellent mezcal list. We like it a lot. Earlier in October, El Primo opened La Prima too, a secret 10-seater, candlelit, Oaxacan-inspired bar semi-hidden within the venue. Were big fans of its Encanto special featuring tequila, dry vermouth and cherry soda. 27-33 Oxford Street, Paddington, elprimosanchez.com The bistro at Jacksons on George becomes a late-night bar on weekends. Edwina Pickles

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Jacksons on George To be clear, were talking about two-thirds of Jacksons here. The ground floor does what it says on the box (beer and footy, largely), but under Maurice Terzinis stewardship, the rooftop bar is set to be the place this summer, with sharp drinks, upbeat tunes and city views. Meanwhile, middle-level Bistro George offers an excellent cocktail list of revamped classics to accompany oysters, clams and salt-crusted steak. 176 George Street, Sydney, jacksonsongeorge.com.au Jangling Jacks Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name, and theyre always glad you came. This mood-lit refuge just off the Potts Point main drag may not look like the bar from Cheers, but it certainly feels like it, with a band of regulars routinely holding court around the counter, sitting on tap beers, banana daiquiris and fried chicken. Newcomers are equally welcome, especially every Thursday when theres live blues. Jacks also gets our vote for the best value happy hour in Sydney: $12 negronis, $10 house wines and $15 cheeseburgers from 4-6pm daily, not to mention $15 martinis all night long every Monday.

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175 Victoria Street, Potts Point Big New Years Eve energy at Maybe Sammy. Supplied Maybe Sammy The accolades continue to roll in, and so, too, do the crowds; so much so that even early school nights at Maybe Sammy can lift off like a New Years Eve knees-up. And why shouldnt they, when youve got a squadron of pink-jacketed pros mixing seriously high-minded drinks outfitted with raspberry clouds and olive oil air? To hit peak high-roller status, try the $150 negroni stirred with vintage spirits from the 70s. 115 Harrington Street, The Rocks, maybesammy.com

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Old Mates Place Theres no better place to be on a sunny Sunday afternoon than the squeezy Old Mates rooftop, which has somehow retained the feel of a well-kept secret despite being anything but. For best results, begin with a VB throwdown before moving on to the inspired bracers: a coconutty riff on a Tommys Margarita with fermented chilli and kimchi agave, say, or a watermelon-forward number folding sake and gin together with fino sherry. Level 4, 199 Clarence Street, Sydney, oldmates.sydney PS40s dual-textured Africola cocktail. Supplied PS40

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Owner Michael Chiems breakfast negroni  complete with the flavours of banana bread, coffee and tonka bean  may well be Australias tastiest new cocktail of the past decade. The original drinks here are always a little ingenious like that, while Takeover Tuesdays provides a platform for the next generation of Sydney chefs to flex their talent across a set menu of singular small plates. A well deserved Bar of the Year winner in The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2024, published last week. 2/40 King Street, Sydney, ps40bar.com Randys Wine is the go-to for top bar snacks in Avalon. Supplied Randys Wine You dont see too many natural wine bars open in Avalon, or many menus sporting our version of a Zinger on a house-baked milk bun for that matter. That fried chook sandwich is tailor-made for eating after a beach dip with skin-contact semillon and seaweed-salted fries. Bar Elvina is also upstairs for more Mediterranean holiday vibes, sashimi and spritzes.

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50 Old Barrenjoey Road, Avalon Beach, randyswine.com.au Cocktail at Re featuting vodka, roasted milk, green cypress molasses and parsnip mead. Supplied Re It takes a whole lotta chutzpah to froth up a vegetal-scented spin on an Espresso Martini with surplus potatoes from Harris Farm. Or put spent rice from a Byron Bay farm to good use in a banana-fragrant spritz with tonka beans. Yet, waste warrior Matt Whiley and his crew do these things to such delicious effect that youll wonder why more bars dont follow in Res trailblazing footsteps. A proper game-changer. Shop 82, Locomotive Street, Eveleigh, wearere.com.au

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The Rover in Surry Hills, home of THE lamb sausage roll. Edwina Pickles The Rover Its a simple brief at this clubby, elegant hideout  great oysters, terrific drinks and a legendary lamb sausage roll. Cocktails from Alex Gondzioulis are consistently a cut-above (were big fans of the house Old Fashioned with amaro and salted maple), and theres no shortage of global whisky to accompany a late-night cheddar and chutney session. 75 Campbell Street, Surry Hills, therover.com.au Shady Pines Saloon

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Shadys still got it  and, quite frankly, this pioneering inner-city purveyor of wicked beers and brown spirits has never really lost it. Dynamite happy hour deals get the party started early, and live country crooners keep it going well into the night on Thursdays and Sundays. Yet, know that no matter when you drop by, the twinkling fairy lights, taxidermy critters and Hank Williams tunes will cast their magic spell. Shop 4, 256 Crown Street, Darlinghurst, swillhouse.com/venues/shady-pines-saloon The conservas menu at Vermuteria. Christopher Pearce Vermuteria The Kings Cross site once home to Cafe Hernadez reopened in February as a vermouth-fuelled neighbourhood bar for tinned seafood, charcuterie and a damn refreshing sherry cobbler. The place looks like its straight out of 1970s Barcelona, and theres no leafier spot for an aperitif than one of the streetside seats. Geeky bartending books and glassware are for retail sale too.

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60 Kings Cross Road, Rushcutters Bay, vermuteria.com.au Wheres Nick in Marrickville, home to one of Sydneys best wine lists. Jennifer Soo Wheres Nick There are wine bars with plusher fitouts and more highfalutin food, but few are more convivial, like a good mates lounge room. Chef Leila Khazmas farinata pancakes and beef carpaccio are worth the trip alone, while co-owner Bridget Raffals wine list gets better and better with age. Expect a thrilling selection of international bottles, and an inspired list of local producers waiting to be unearthed. 236 Marrickville Road, Marrickville, wheresnick.com.au

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Industrial shed meets Belgian farmhouse at Wildflower Brewing and Blending. Jennifer Soo Wildflower Brewing & Blending Looking every bit like a Belgian farmhouse, Wildflower was already our favourite industrial estate brewery. Then A.P. Bakery started doing pork ribs, pies and potato salad, and the deliciousness level doubled. When staff arent choosing a vinyl to spin (George Benson; Nashville Skyline; psychedelic African desert blues), theyre guiding guests through the range of barrel-aged ales, guest beers, wines and local kombuchas. 11-13 Brompton Street, Marrickville, wildflowerbeer.com The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2024 is on sale now at newsagents, supermarkets and thestore.com.au.

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In editing this years Good Food Guide, we sunk our spoons into a small islands worth of creme caramels and ate too many frites to count (or tell our doctors about). Big steaks were shared. Anchovy toast was had. We ate things on skewers and from hollowed-out bones. Offal stole our hearts, eel went from under-the-radar to the best thing since sliced kingfish, and celeriac and kohlrabi were transformed from bit-part to scene-stealing on multiple occasions. $200 steak and extra for sauce? The restaurant food trends we never want to see again Reviewing for the Guide gives you a whole new vocabulary: you become fluent in pastry preparations, chilli varieties, tiramisu riffs and the universe of som tum. You also start to spot trends from a mile off  and tire of them about 4.5 times quicker than the average diner. With all that in mind, consider this a highly subjective snapshot of two professional eaters loves and hates of the past 12 months. Things we loved

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Crazy caramels Move over butterscotch. This year we saw that there are many shades of caramel, from seaweed-infused to amaro-spiked. North & Commons sesame version is nutty, sticky and a perfect plus-one for chocolate mousse. Cap off an extravagant night at Society with a caviar and creme fraiche sundae, complete with funky kelp caramel. And fish sauce caramel crowns pate with chips at Odd Culture in Fitzroy, completes barramundi wings at Castlemaines Wild, and sharpens creme caramel at Mornington newcomer Colt Dining. Fish sauce caramel crowns pate at Odd Culture in Fitzroy. Supplied Surf and turf, but make it pork and seafood Once relegated to jumbo prawns and a big hunk of beef at old-school steakhouses, surf and turf has been born again and its spectacular. CBD bar Apollo Inn takes Baker Bleu baguette, smears it with Spains spreadable sausage sobrasada and tops it with diced tuna. The spicy, soft Calabrian pork sausage nduja amps up both crisp-skinned dory at Kews Centonove and plump prawns at Grill Americano in the city. Ettas pork and mussel salad shows how its done delicately, while at the other end of the spectrum, the porky richness of tonkotsu at Gomi Ramen Shop is boosted with pungent prawn-head oil.

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Restaurants show their soft side Its time to put the Scandi minimalism years behind us. All those hard surfaces and bright spaces are trumped by softness in all forms: heavy velvet drapes that make us feel like the only ones in the room. Cushy, sound-absorbing carpet underfoot. Gentle lighting. And padded bar stools, a subtle surprise for our backsides that allow us to eat at the bar without feeling like were sitting on a park bench. At the risk of sounding like a toilet paper advertisement, softness is luxury. Half serves (as long as theyre half price) Generally, receiving half the dish you ordered or a 75ml glass of wine is cause for concern. But it can be a strategic move, a way to try more without spending more. Negotiate with your waiter and youll find plenty of restaurants and bars that will happily accommodate a solo diner with half serves, or split a single by-the-glass pour into two. Its a signifier of the high-flex, low-commitment way we dine today, and one of the rare occasions where doing things by halves pays off. Kinilaw kangaroo bone marrow at Serai. Chris Hopkins

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Hello, bone marrow The very definition of a sometimes food, this wobbly collagen-rich goo brings buttery heft to everything it touches. Saffron-stained risotto at Roccos Bologna Discoteca, beef tartare at Il Bacaro, skewers of celeriac at La Pinta and silken mash at Reine & La Rue all benefited from bone marrows fatty magic. Serais bone boats cradling hunks of lightly cured kangaroo might be the most ridiculously OTT example we ate. If this is what happens when restaurants try to rein in their food costs, were all for it. Chicken mousse eclairs at Lilac Wine. Jason South Pastry chameleons Hang on. Why is there cannoli on my table when Im still on my first martini? Look a little closer at that cannoli (or eclair, or choux bun), though, and youll see its piped with pate: a new cross-breed of pastry that doesnt care for labels like sweet or savoury. Doughnuts at Auterra might burst with confit duck and plum. Pigs head pies on Ca Coms evening menu are wrapped in sweet tissue-paper-like taro pastry. And eclairs piped with chicken liver mousse are a mandatory order at Lilac Wine.

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Smoked oysters at Freyja, an earlier iteration of its mussel dish. Eddie Jim Hot molluscs Bake em, smoke em, fry em up: after a couple of decades on the outer, warm oysters and their bivalvia buddies are so hot right now. Head to Society for deep-fried oysters with a chicken-skin crumb. Scallops au gratin made repeat appearances, perhaps most memorably at Gimlet  the shellfish warm and sweet under a velvety herb-flecked sauce. And Freyjas smoked mussels might be one of the years most spectacular dishes, the meaty molluscs ferried out on still-smoking pine, beech and juniper sprigs. Things we did not love so much Tiny wine lists

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Its not 1994. You cant smoke inside, Friday lunches go for 90 minutes, tops, and few of us are polishing off a whole bottle of wine on the reg. Most of the time we want to drink by the glass, and wed like more than two whites and two reds to choose from. Weredrinking less, sure, but were also more informed and more adventurous, and were at a bar to explore different styles. At least throw in a wildcard or two. And tiny pours Ever wonder if someones been sneaking sips of your wine when your back is turned? You, friend, might be another victim of the 120ml pour. Its nothing new, but its more widespread than ever, seeing a net loss of 30ml from what many would consider a standard wine pour in Australia (not to be confused with a standard drink). Some venues use it to make super-primo drops more accessible, which is fair enough. But when its not clearly marked on the wine list  and especially if were drinking a run-of-the-mill chardonnay  we can be forgiven for feeling a little bit ripped off. Tiramisu, the pick me up dessert wed like to put down. Quentin Jones Tiramisu

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Tiramisu is well and truly done. Its over. Pack it up. Sorry, nonnas everywhere  we know its not your fault. But restaurants, please give us literally any other dessert. We get that its a killer combo: the rich cream, the coffee kick, the boozy undertones. But we simply cannot stomach one more wodge, slice or jumbo spoonful from a big communal bowl. Walk-ins arent actually all that welcome A no-bookings policy can be a thing of beauty. Theoretically, its equal-opportunity eating  the playing field for seats is evened out. Many places nail it. Plenty dont. Signs youre at the latter? Youre forced to hover in the entryway, seatless and on show until a waylaid staff member spots you. Theres no indication of wait time, nowhere nearby to drink the wait away, not even a courtesy text when your turn comes. You might want to think about walking right back out again. The pushy booking platform Would you like fries with that? How about a truffle supplement, a $200 bottle of champagne or a piece of jewellery? Reservation platforms are big business and the preemptive upsell is one way they help venues make extra coin. They might also appear to find you a table at that hard-to-book restaurant  but when you look more closely, you may be headed to its less popular sibling instead. Resy, Seven Rooms, Open Table and others also mean many venues no longer list their phone numbers. But what use is a mute reservations platform if we need to get in touch? At least let us send a text.

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"...we should pass over all biographies of 'the good and the great,' while we search carefully the slight records of wretches who died in prison, in Bedlam, or upon the gallows."

~Edgar Allan Poe
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China will promote the industrialization of patents to facilitate the country's high-level self-reliance on science and technologies, according to a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday.

Shen Changyu, head of the National Intellectual Property Administration, said at the briefing that by 2025, the country's volume of contracted technology transactions that involve patents is expected to reach 800 billion yuan (about 111.45 billion U.S. dollars) when citing a recent action plan on patent enforcement.

The plan, released by the State Council, noted that major tasks include cultivating a market of intellectual property factors and establishing a unified and standardized intellectual property trading system.

As for patent cooperation, China has also established intellectual property cooperation with more than 80 countries, regions, and international organizations, Shen said.

Data showed that from 2012 to September 2023, the cumulative number of foreign invention patents granted in China topped 1.05 million, fully reflecting the recognition of foreign enterprises to China's intellectual property protection. 
Former federal Liberal Party staffer Bruce Lehrmann can be identified as the high-profile man charged with raping a woman in Toowoomba in October 2021.

The charges relate to an alleged incident with a woman Lehrmann met in a nightclub only weeks after he first appeared in a Canberra court over unrelated allegations he raped Brittany Higgins in Parliament House.

Bruce Lehrmann has this month been fighting in several courts to keep his identity secret. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

While the Toowoomba matter is still in its early stages, before a magistrate, Lehrmann has this month been fighting in several courts to keep his identity secret. Changes to Queensland laws, which came into effect on October 3, allow alleged rapists to be named before they are committed to stand trial.

It was in November 2021 that the woman in Toowoomba made a complaint about the alleged rape, telling police she had read about Lehrmann online in the weeks after the incident. She told police they initially had consensual sex but that Lehrmann later removed a condom without her permission and raped her twice.
There will be no formal coalition between Labor and the Greens at the next Brisbane City Council election, Greens mayoral candidate Jonathan Sriranganathan has declared.

He made the comments while releasing a policy where landlords of investment properties vacant for more than six months would pay 20 times their current annual rates.

Greens mayoral candidate Jonathan Sriranganathan said investment properties vacant for more than six months would be charged 20 times the current rates to force landlords to rent or sell empty homes. Credit: Felicity Caldwell

The current administration, led by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, has repeatedly warned voters the 2024 election will be a contest between Schrinners Liberal National Party team and a Labor-Greens coalition of chaos.

However, Sriranganathan  formerly the West End-based councillor for the Gabba Ward  said there was no formal Greens and Labor coalition, and he doubted there would be any preference exchange.
The West Australian detective who made international headlines when he rescued kidnapped girl Cleo Smith has been accused of police misconduct by the states Corruption and Crime Commission after allegedly having a secret affair with a young journalist and leaking confidential information about the case to her.

Homicide squad Detective Senior Sergeant Cameron Blaine, 50, led the raid of abductor Terence Kellys Carnarvon home in November 2021, asking Cleo for her name, prompting the four-year-olds famous response, My name is Cleo.

Detective Cameron Blaine (left) during a press conference about Cleo Smiths rescue. Credit: Nine News Perth

After public praise for the rescue was heaped upon Blaine, allegations of misconduct emerged and he was stood down on full pay in September 2022, pending a CCC investigation. He resigned from WA Police shortly before the CCC report was tabled on Thursday.

The report alleged Blaine released confidential information to the journalist, and misused a police vehicle to repeatedly visit her at her home.
I go to the Belle Rive, right on the Mekong, to sit and watch the sunset and have a Beerlao, the local bottled beer, which is really delicious. Theyve released a new range of flavours including a dark, an IPA and a white lager, but the original is the best. Bar snacks here include kai pen; dried river reeds that are deep-fried and served with a jeow (chilli sauce). See the-belle-rive-terrace.business.site

One of the most beautiful things in LP is the giving of alms to monks in the morning. So the first thing youre thinking of when you wake up is someone else, not yourself. Its a reflection of Laos culture, community and sense of self. I noticed the opposite when I came back to Australia during the pandemic. The locals are trying to cash in on it and sell food to tourists to give to the monks but its often not of good quality. Instead, let your hotel arrange healthy, nutritious food or fruit, not just biscuits and soft drink, and theyll help teach you how to behave. Yes, you want to get the best photo, but you need to respect whats going on. Stepping in front of monks to get a photo or using flash photography is so disrespectful.

Thrive

Spicy ripe papaya salad or som tum Luang Prabang, Laos-style.

The local treatment to sober up quickly is to eat a serve of papaya salad. If youre at a party with Laotians and theyre going home after a few beers, they always eat from the papaya salad station (every party has one) before jumping on their motorbikes. I dont know if it works or not, but its what everyone does.
Volotea is handy to know about if flitting around the Mediterranean, with several bases in Italy, France and Greece. Its also one of the main operators of flights to Sardinia. In the 2023 World Airline Awards, Volotea was named the best budget airline in Europe. Transavia France Transavia France is the low-cost version of Air France. Credit: Transavia Second on the World Airline Awards list of top European budget airlines is Transavia France, which is the low-cost sister airline of Air France, and a spin-off of Dutch airline Transavia. For booking purposes, though, you can treat the French and Dutch outfits as the same company.

Transavia France has multiple bases, though, flying from Paris-Orly, Nantes, Montpellier and Marseille. The route map is pretty impressive, covering large swathes of Europe, plus a few interesting countries on the fringe, such as Egypt and Morocco. Air Baltic Fancying itself as a full-service carrier, Air Baltic has a generous seat pitch. Credit: Air Baltic Third on the World Airline Awards list is Air Baltic, which is based in Riga, Latvia, but also has bases in Finland, Estonia and Lithuania. Of the European budget airlines, Air Baltic is the one that most fancies itself as a full-service carrier. It operates codeshare agreements with multiple airlines from all three major alliances, so you may find yourself on an Air Baltic plane as a connection.

Thankfully, those planes arent bad. Air Baltic exclusively uses Airbus A220-300s, with a seat pitch of 32 inches (81 cm). By budget airline standards, thats generous. Vueling Vueling has quietly become Spains biggest airline. Credit: Facebook/Vueling Also dipping its toes into legacy carrier territory is Vueling, which has quietly become Spains biggest airline. Owned by IAG, the group which includes British Airways and Iberia, Vueling operates codeshare flights with Qatar Airways  an airline Australian travellers may find themselves on. Vueling focuses on connecting Spain to the rest of Europe, bus it also has bases in Rome, Florence, Paris, Amsterdam and London. Which is why you might end up flying from Rome to Mykonos or Paris to Cairo on a Spanish airline.

Eurowings Eurowings is the low-cost brand of the Lufthansa group. Credit: Eurowings Eurowings is the low-cost brand of the Lufthansa group, and codeshares with several Star Alliance airlines. For Australians, this primarily means you might end up on a Eurowings flight as a connection with Singapore Airlines. The headquarters is in Dusseldorf, but there are several other German bases, and a handful elsewhere in Europe. This leads to perhaps unexpected routes such as Prague to Oslo and Stockholm to Nice. Ryanair

Ryanair is the biggest of the budget airlines in Europe, with the worst reputation. Credit: Ryanair Europes biggest airline is also its most notorious. Ryanair has a reputation for callous disregard towards customer complaints and a  now largely outdated  notoriety for flying to airports up to 100 kilometres away from the target city. Loading Also largely outdated is its reputation for bargain-basement fares. However, Ryanair operates so many routes that it is often the only direct option, and it is usually the cheapest when theres competition. Know what youre in for  cramped, slab-like seats and brusque service. Just tolerate it is the attitude of most European flyers. EasyJet

EasyJet has similar offerings to Ryanair, but in orange. Credit: Alamy The second-biggest budget airline in Europe takes a less aggressive approach than Ryanair. The offering is much the same, but in orange. That said, theres a smidge more legroom, cabin crew make a bit more effort to be congenial and the on-board food options are a bit less depressing. EasyJet has multiple bases across Europe and flies nearly 1000 routes. If hopping around Europe, its hard to avoid. Crucially, though, theres less of an overwhelming desire to avoid EasyJet than with its infamous rival. Jet2 Jet2 passengers must contend with its inexplicable compulsion to play Hold My Hand by Jess Glynne multiple times. Credit: iStock

Originally based in northern England, but now with hubs all over the UK, Jet2 specialises in sunshine holiday destinations and city breaks. This does, however, throw up some appealing routes  such as Edinburgh to Salzburg and London Stansted to Santorini. When consumer magazine Which? did an extensive survey in 2023, Jet2 had the top customer satisfaction score of any short-haul economy airline. However, you will have to contend with Jet2s inexplicable compulsion to play Hold My Hand by Jess Glynne multiple times on every flight. Youre an airline, guys  you dont need a theme tune. WizzAir WizzAir has a worse reputation than Ryanair. Credit: WizzAir
This article is part of Travellers November Hot List. See all stories .

Cruise ship Disney Wonder sailed into Sydney Harbour on Friday morning ahead of its inaugural Australian season. Its the first Disney ship to cruise Australian waters since the entertainment company established its own cruise line in 1998. From Saturday, the 2713-passenger vessel will commence a number of sailings from ports on Australias eastern seaboard. Disney Wonder at Sydneys White Bay Cruise Terminal on Friday. Credit: Rhett Wyman Cruises ranging from two to six nights will depart from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Auckland, starting with a four-night round-trip cruise from Sydney.
Hundreds of police fanned out across the state of Maine hunting for a man wanted in connection with mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in the US state of Maine, as news outlets reported a death toll ranging from 16 to 22, with dozens more wounded.

Officials said there were multiple casualties but declined to confirm figures.

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine. Credit: AP

State and local police identified Robert Card, 40, who was reportedly committed to a mental health facility over the summer, as a person of interest in the case. Earlier, they posted on Facebook photographs of a bearded man in a brown hoodie and jeans at one of the crime scenes in the town of Lewiston, holding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle in the firing position.

We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr Card, who is a person of interest, Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a news conference.
Open Letter to William T. Alpert on His Fraudulent Anti-Ethanol Article







Another professor who should be embarrassed by his academic incompetence







Hi Bill -

I just read the recent unfortunate article you posted on InsideSources.com titled "The Ethanol Fraud.". I call it unfortunate because I presume that by couching your attack on ethanol fuel behind your credentials as a university professor, and founder of a "philanthropic management company" that you take some pride in those vocational positions. Therefore, it's a shame that you would be willing to risk your reputation and legacy on publishing such a false and rather ignorant article on a subject that you obviously have little or no knowledge of.







I also find it rather odd that you would replicate another anti-ethanol article that was published onabout three years ago (2019), written by Bernard L. Weinstein, who was also a university economics professor. I guess you tapped into the same oil industry-related funding that "Bud" Weinstein used. At least with Bud, he was and I believe still is involved with energy issues via his connections through Southern Methodist University. In fact, in my first rebuttal to a Bud Weinstein anti-ethanol story in 2016, I termed his energy credentials as possibly being "the most heavily credentialed of the oil industry spokesperson that I've ever seen." Of course, those credentials didn't stop Bud from being incorrect on his assessment of ethanol fuel, and it didn't dissuade me from successfully challenging his statements. You may be interested in reading the editorial I wrote about Bud's story, and the subsequent exchange that we had. You can read it by clicking the following link:

Getting back to your article, I'm not saying that you outright plagiarized Bud's October 2019 article, but it is very similar in nature and tone. Heck, even the same masthead photo is used on both your article and Bud's article. You might also be interested to know that Bud's 2019 article on InsideSources.com is basically a republication of an article he had published on the Daily Caller website in June 2018. At that time the article was titled "LETS GET RID OF THE ETHANOL MANDATE, NOT REFORM IT," and Bud mentioned me in the article. Even more interesting is that this 2018 article was just a newer iteration of Bud's 2016 article I mentioned in the paragraph above.

In other words, one way or another, your unfortunate article of last week is nothing more than the same false bovine manure that is part of the oil industry's usual repertoire of lies and misinformation about ethanol fuel. By accepting whatever money you did for attaching your name and credentials to the lies will ultimately do you no favor (unless it was so much money that you and your immediate family will never have to work again).

But, let me get off this morose stuff, and get on to the good stuff: Rebuking the crap you wrote about.

You begin your attack on ethanol fuel by writing:



"Americas ethanol scam is responsible for the malnourishment of millions of people, higher energy costs and substantial resource misallocations."

This is an entirely false statement. It is also a stupid statement for you to make because you have no sources or citations to back it up, as evidenced by the fact that you provide no links or references. Since you don't appear to have the academic or literary credentials to personally corroborate these charges, I think it's tantamount to an absolute outright lie.

In response to the charges, I'll briefly explain the reason for using ethanol in internal combustion engine fuels. High compression engines running on ethanol-free gasoline suffer from a condition commonly called engine knock. This is a premature detonation of the gasoline fumes caused by the heat in the cylinders, by comparison to the regularly timed sparks emitted by spark plugs.

The premature detonation is an explosion that abruptly interrupts the normal cycle of pistons moving up and down. The up and down motion of the piston turns the crankshaft. When this happens, the vehicle stops and starts in an irregular stuttering fashion, which causes the vehicle to lose speed and power. Obviously, the shaking makes for an uncomfortable ride for any passengers. In addition, when acceleration is demanded, such as in passing or entering a highway, this loss of critical momentum can create a dangerous situation for the vehicle experiencing the knocking difficulty, as well as for the other vehicles in the merge lane or adjacent lanes. The knocking also violently shakes the engine along with various engine components in a manner not designed. Over time, the engine and the components can break apart or come loose, which would clearly exacerbate any interruption of the smooth forward motion of the vehicle. It could also require expensive road-service or shop repair.

The original solution to this problem was to add ethanol to the gasoline as an "oxygenate." Ethanol contains higher octane than any standard gasolines, and it eliminates premature detonation. All of the top automobile scientists and engine designers favored the use of ethanol. However, because of financial reasons, General Motors changed their minds and decided to use tetraethyl lead (TEL) as the anti-knock additive. This formula became known as leaded-gasoline. The problem with TEL is that it's highly poisonous. Getting TEL on your skin or briefly breathing the fumes can cause mental illness and death. For this reason, TEL became known as "looney gas." Several people working at the Dupont factories that produced TEL did indeed become very ill, and some died. Ethanol, on the other hand, is not poisonous to the touch - people regularly use ethanol (ethyl-alcohol) to rub on their bodies, and moderate inhaling of ethanol fumes will not cause mental illness or death. Natural ethanol is the alcohol used in alcoholic beverages and food ingredients.

Eventually, the public and health officials had enough of the damage caused to humans by TEL, and its use was significantly banned in America and other parts of the world, although not entirely. The replacement for TEL was another oil industry choice Methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE). MTBE was found to also be poisonous to humans, and it passed into drinking water supplies. When MTBE was banned another solution was needed. Only two choices existed, the increased use of "aromatics," which consists of poisonous substances including benzene, toluene, and xylene; or ethanol. Ethanol was less expensive, safer, and healthier to use, and so the oil industry chose to use ethanol. The government did not choose ethanol, the oil industry chose to use it. The government merely mandated the use of a renewable fuel, not what that fuel had to be."

Although you may know some or all of this, Bill, I included the information, because your article like most of the anti-ethanol screeds I come across tries to hide any legitimate reason for why ethanol should be used as an additive to gasoline, or as a stand-alone engine fuel.

America could have saved the lives of millions of humans and animals the world over if they banned the use of leaded gasoline in the 1920s and allowed the use of ethanol fuel as was favored by top scientists and automakers of the time. The following is a link to a thesis that energy expert Robert L. Bradley, Jr. asked me to write for him six years ago:

Sadly, due to greed (not good old free market capitalism) and political bribery, leaded gasoline was allowed to become America's primary engine fuel. The devastating result of using leaded gasoline is partially captured in the following story:



Regarding your claim about the malnourishment of millions of people, if you're talking about the use of corn for fuel and how it impacts Americans, there's absolutely no evidence to support the claim. Actually, all you have to do is review our country's obesity crisis, as well as the plethora of corn-related food products readily available at all grocery stores, convenience stores, vending machines, movie theaters, and many street-side vendors.

If you're referring to people outside of the United States (in your exalted role as the founder of a philanthropic management company), what does America's use of corn for ethanol fuel have to do with them? In the years since the enactment of RFS, America's agricultural community has been able to substantially increase the yield of corn crops using as little as - or less - land, water, and fertilizer than before RFS. Some ethanol bashers like you like to sound an alarm that a full 40% of all corn crops in the U.S. are used to make ethanol fuel. You've got it all wrong, it's because of innovations brought on by having a successful corn ethanol market (which could be much more successful if you guys stopped lying about ethanol) that it is more realistic to say that along with being able to supply the corn we use for engine fuel, our farmers are also able to produce almost fours times that amount of corn to be used for food. It is because of this surplus, that America can and does supply corn around the world, often for free.







Moreover, in the absurd accusation that America's AG and ethanol industries are responsible for malnourishment around the world, then you clearly and ignorantly don't know that the innovative techniques used here to dramatically increase corn production are being used around the world. Or maybe you just don't want to acknowledge the efforts by our AG and ethanol communities to aid farmers in other countries.







If your concern about "malnourishment" (domestic and worldwide) is related to quality of food, not quantity of food, and you're saying that the junkier foods containing corn are the cause of malnourishment, that might be true, but as I asked you earlier, what does that have to do with how much corn is used to make ethanol fuel.

For you not to know these things about corn, Bill, shame on you, What kind of philanthropist are you?

Incidentally, I didn't even bring up the fact that the high-protein remnants of the corn kernels used to make ethanol fuel are then fed to animals that humans eat, which adds to the amount of food that's available. Why don't you know this?

One more thing about this malnutrition thing, if American farmers were to stop producing corn for ethanol, and instead only grew the corn for food, who would pay for it? Among the list of your grievances is the over-hyped concern about government subsidies paid to the AG community. If you don't like subsidies, which many people don't, why would subsidizing American farmers to grow corn suddenly be okay? (You didn't think this out very well, did you?)

If you're still not convinced about who is responsible for causing hunger and malnutrition in third world countries, read the article that your website, InsideSources.com, published on Monday, August 1st:

"Energy Hypocrisy as Rich Countries Denying the Poor the Power to Develop.". It sure ain't the ethanol industry!

Regarding higher energy costs, ethanol used for fuel lowers the price of engine fuels, it doesn't increase the prices. What kind of lousy economist are you? Why don't you know this either?

Ethanol lowers the price of gasolines two ways: First, the wholesale price of ethanol is significantly lower than the wholesale price of gasoline. When you average out two or more items that are then combined, and the price of one is less than the other, then the combined average price is lower. This is simple mathematics. I understand that you were not a professor of mathematics, but you should still understand the concept of averages. The only way for the combined price of an ethanol-gasoline blend to be higher than the price of gasoline alone would be if the oil industry was trying to penalize everyone for making them add something to the gasoline that was not another poisonous petroleum oil by-product. Of course, this would not be out of character for the oil industry as it generally looks to hurt consumers in anyway they can, but it doesn't seem like they have resorted to this yet.

The other way that the lower cost of ethanol reduces the price of gasoline is because it represents a viable alternative to gasoline. This is called "competition," and I'm sure this is something you should have heard about as an Economics Professor. For about half a century, the oil industry was able to rely on the usurious federal tax on alcohol production to protect itself from ethanol competition, then an oil industry-induced National Prohibition of alcohol kept the competition at bay. And then a general malaise caused by years of oil industry lies and a vast marketing war-chest kept the public from demanding ethanol (the superior fuel). When you then combine all of this with the growing knowledge that anyone, anywhere, could make their own ethanol fuel - if they had to - keeps the oil industry from unjustifiably raising the price of ethanol-gasoline blends higher than ethanol-free gasoline.

Regarding your claim of substantial resource allocations to make ethanol, I already addressed this in the graphs shown above.

As for the overall claim that ethanol (corn ethanol or other ethanol from any other crop) is not environmentally responsible, I have to ask if you're suffering from any age-related mental issues? There is nothing more environmentally irresponsible than the entire oil industry and their products. Every major war in the last 108 years is related to petroleum oil. There have been dozens of environmental accidents over the years that have destroyed waterways, beaches, and killed untold millions of wildlife. And the land affected by oil drilling and mining is far, far more disastrous than anything that could be used against ethanol. Here's the photographic proof:













Regarding your delusional claim that the ethanol "scam began with the bipartisan passage of the Open Fuel Standard Act of 2011," I already answered this above. The reason for turning to ethanol fuel (turning back to ethanol fuel as it happens), was because Congress finally pulled it's collective head out of its rear-end long enough to acknowledge how poisonous leaded gasoline is. And when the oil industry failed to find a suitable, affordable alternative to tetraethyl lead, they - the oil industry - eventually agreed on the use of ethanol. The scam is the oil industry trying to push the ethanol-genie back in the bottle by using people like you to lie about ethanol. The oil industry uses suckers like you the way that the tobacco industry used unscrupulous doctors to tell the public that tobacco smoking was not harmful. Again, Bill...SHAME ON YOU!

Then you quote David Frum and his article at TheAtlantic.com. Why? If you thought that anything he says about ethanol means anything, why didn't you research the points for yourself? Frum was a hack speechwriter for a hack president. Yes, I voted for George W. Bush, for his second term. But it wasn't because of anything that Frum wrote, then or now. He knows less than you know about ethanol fuel, and you know nothing. You're the "professor," why didn't you do any homework for yourself? Why aren't you critical of Frum's reporting on ethanol fuel, he has no credentials in this area. Would you have allowed your students to get away with this?

Frum talks about "all kinds of ethanol grants and subsidies." What ethanol subsidies? There are none. The last ethanol subsidy expired more than a decade ago, and it wasn't an "ethanol industry" subsidy, it was a subsidy that went to the oil industry, the oil blenders, because they were worried that they might lose too much profit from having to help clean the environment and save peoples' lives.

Which grants are Frum talking about? He didn't say, he didn't cite any resources, and because you did no research yourself you didn't add any value to his article. What's the matter with you! (I'm not even using a question mark at this point when I ask these questions, just an exclamation point because your shocking lack of knowledge makes the questions rhetorical.)

Frum vilifies POET, Americas largest ethanol company because their annual revenue for 2019 was $8 billion. Yes, $8B annual revenue would be an enormous amount of money for me and my company (The Auto Channel), and it might be a lot of revenue for you and your philanthropy business, but what does $8B in revenue mean in the energy industry? In 2019, Exxon/Mobil had a revenue of almost $265 billion, with a profit of almost $54B. This means that POET's revenues were just 3% of Exxon/Mobil's revenues, and POET is Americas largest ethanol company, Frum was so anxious to report. Exxon/Mobil's profit alone was close to seven times greater than POET's gross revenue.

Incidentally, revenue aside, do you know what the best big difference is between POET and Exxon/Mobil? POET's products haven't killed millions of people. The products produced by POET and other ethanol producers haven't started any wars. They haven't caused any environmental disasters or earthquakes.

In fact, as of the date of my writing this, it has now been 17,796 consecutive days since the October 1973 oil crisis in which not one American Soldier, Sailor, Marine, Airman, or Coast Guardsman has been killed defending domestic or foreign ethanol production. The same is true for the militaries of every other country that makes significant use of ethanol fuel (that I can think of). Meanwhile, America's defense budget to protect the Middle East oil industry is many times greater than what it costs to buy their oil. Watch this video, if you have the courage:

Furthermore, the CNN text story that Frum derived his POET revenue information from told the story of how Jeff Broin's (POET's CEO) family was able to save their 130-year-old corn farm by getting involved with ethanol fuel. CNN presents the story of POET in a positive light, unlike Frum's portrayal. It is a positive story, it's a classic American success story. This same CNN story also delves into some of POET's global involvements, such as their "SEEDS OF CHANGE" program in Africa. This one venture alone blows apart your moronic assertion that the ethanol fuel industry is responsible for the malnourishment of millions.

And, this is just one example of how the American "ethanol" industry is helping millions and millions of people around the world to exist, survive, and thrive. There are dozens of other stories like this. Although not as well known, efforts and innovations from smaller companies like Tom Quinn's E-FUEL Corporation, David Blume's Permaculture and Distillery Programs, and Doron Shmueli's MayMaan Research have impactful philanthropic global outreach that can, and do better the lives of millions. Of course, this is true for virtually all the ethanol advocacy organizations and State corn growers associations. Painting American ethanol companies with the same brush that can only be reserved for petroleum oil companies is laughable and so very ignorant.

Going back to the subsidies issue, if this is a big deal why not attack the gasoline industry, an industry that has continuously benefitted from government subsidies (some of their subsidies go back 100 years) and they're in addition to the already mentioned humongous military defense expense of the oil industry?

Lastly, why on Earth would you include a mention of the Tyler Lark, et al., farce. It was nothing more than a rehashing of the David Pimentel/Tad Patzek scam studies from two decades ago. I have totally debunked it, Renewable Fuel Association has debunked it, and Argonne National Laboratory kicked the heck out of it.

Here's some rebuttal documents:







William T. Alpert, you should be ashamed at yourself for writing that piece of garbage, and InsideSources.com should be ashamed for publishing it! You should have flushed it, instead!
Ford and UAW Almost There

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 25, 2023  We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations.

Ford is proud to assemble the most vehicles in America and employ the most hourly autoworkers. We are focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again.

The agreement is subject to ratification by Fords UAW-represented employees. Consistent with the ratification process, the UAW will share details with its membership.

UAW Says:

Oct. 25, 2023  Today our national negotiators reached a tentative agreement with Ford on a record contract. In a video announcement, UAW President Shawn Fain and International Vice President Chuck Browning gave an overview of the tentative agreement and explained our next steps. Following is a full transcript of their remarks. You can watch the video here .

PRESIDENT FAIN: UAW Family. Im excited and honored to be joined today by Vice President Chuck Browning as we announce a major victory in the Stand Up Strike: Today, we reached a tentative agreement with Ford.

For months weve said that record profits mean record contracts. And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered.

What started at three plants at midnight on September 15, has become a national movement.

We knew we were getting close, but we also knew the companies needed a major push if we were going to make sure we got every penny possible in this agreement.

So we took our strike to a new phase and hit the companies with maximum effect.

On Monday, we called on our UAW family at Sterling Heights Assembly to stand up. That is Stellantiss biggest and most profitable plant.

On Tuesday, our UAW family at Arlington Assembly answered the call and they went out on strike, shutting down GMs biggest and most profitable plant.

Ford knew what was coming for them on Wednesday if we didnt get a deal. That was Checkmate.

On day 40 of the Stand Up strike, we reached a historic agreement.

As you know, in our union, the members are the highest authority.

That means we have a process for rolling out the details of the agreement, and making sure every member gets a chance to make an informed decision.

So here are the next steps.

First, we have reached a tentative agreement with Ford.

Next, your elected leadership in the UAW National-Ford Council is going to come to Detroit and on Sunday, October 29, they will vote on whether to send the agreement to the membership.

If the Council votes to approve the agreement, then that evening we will be hosting a special Facebook Live with all of you to go through the deal in detail.

Your national negotiators and staff are working tirelessly right now to get the highlighter, the change pages, and White Book together.

Our goal is to have those ready and available digitally for all of you to access online on Sunday night.

Following the Council vote and the Facebook Live, well hold regional meetings to walk through the agreement with local leadership, and then locals will hold informational meetings to get your questions answered.

After that, itll be up to the members to vote on the deal.

Were going to let that democratic process take its course.

But we also wanted to provide you with some key takeaways of this historic agreement.

VICE PRESIDENT BROWNING: Our union has united in a way we havent seen in years. From the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, our members came together to tell the Big Three with one voice that record profits mean a record contract.

Thanks to the power of our members on the picket line and the threat of more strikes to come, we have won the most lucrative agreement per member since Walter Reuther was president.

Between wage increases, COLA, annual bonuses to retirees and other economic gains, there is more value for our members in each individual year of this agreement than the entirety of the 2019 agreement.

This deal puts more money on the table than the 2019 agreement four times over.

So when we say historic, we mean it.

This contract is going to be life changing.

We have won a 25% general wage increase over the course of this agreement.

With COLA, we expect the top rate to increase by over 30 percent, to above $40 an hour. Our starting rate will rise 68 percent.

For decades, temps at the big three have been abused and exploited. Over the life of the contract, temps will see raises of over 150%!

Some of our lower-tier members at Sterling Axle and Rawsonville will see an immediate 85% raise upon ratification.

UAW members at Ford will receive more in straight general wage over the next four and a half years than we have over the last 22 years combined.

At ratification, Ford workers will receive an immediate 11% wage increase. Thats almost equal to ALL the wage increases since 2007 combined.

We also won back some core things that we had lost over the years.

We have won back our 2009 COLA.

We have won back our 3-year progression from before the Great Recession.

We have killed the divisive wage tier at Sterling Axle and Rawsonville.

We have finally added to our pension multiplier, and provided more for retirement for current retirees, members with pensions, and members with 401(k)s.

And on top of that we made historic advances in job security.

For the first time ever, we won the right to strike over plant closures.

For decades that was an impossible demand, but through the power of the Stand Up strike, we have made it a reality.

That means they cant keep devastating our communities and closing plants with no consequences.

Together, we have made history.

PRESIDENT FAIN: When we say we made history, we dont just mean me and Chuck and our national negotiators. We mean we, the UAW.

We mean the Stand Up Strikers of Local 900 Michigan Assembly who took our first step.

Our family at Local 551 Chicago Assembly who brought the noise.

And our brothers and sisters at Kentucky Truck Plant Local 862, who landed the biggest blow.

Everything we did at the bargaining table, every extra hundred million we got the company to give up, was because of you, the members.

And the next steps are also up to you  because the members are the highest authority in our union.

We send this contract to you because we know it breaks records.

We know it will change lives.

But what happens next is up to you all.

VICE PESIDENT BROWNING: Heres the next phase in our Stand Up Strike.

We are calling on all Ford strikers to go back to work while we vote on our tentative agreement.

Like everything weve done in this Stand Up Strike, this is a strategic move to get the best deal possible.

Were going back to work at Ford to keep the pressure on Stellantis and GM; the last thing they want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind.

PRESIDENT FAIN: Members are the highest authority, and YOU decide what happens next, not us.

VICE PESIDENT BROWNING: So now that weve announced a tentative agreement, or TA, we will be bringing the UAW National Ford Council to Detroit.

This is our unions democracy at work.

The Ford Council is the next line in the chain after our national negotiators.

Theyll review the details of the agreement and vote on whether to send it to the full membership in the next several days.

PRESIDENT FAIN: Following the vote of the Council well put the full change pages and the contract highlights online and well hold a Facebook Live to dig into the details.

After that, the members vote.

I want to be clear. We told Ford to pony up and they did.

We won things nobody thought possible. Since the strike began, Ford put 50 percent MORE on the table than when we walked out.

This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry.

Together, we are turning the tide for the working class in this country.

But the decision isnt up to us. Every UAW member at Ford will get a vote on this deal, and the majority rules.

So well go through our process, well discuss and debate, and well move forward together. As a united UAW, back in the fight to save the American dream.
BOGOTA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego is in Beijing for a state visit this week, as many in Colombia are closely watching his maiden trip there.

"President Petro's visit to China can be deeply transformative for Colombia in a very positive way," said David Castrillon Kerrigan, an international relations academic at the Externado University of Colombia.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

According to this senior researcher, the visits of previous presidents, beginning with former Colombian President Ernesto Samper Pizano in 1996, have paved the way towards a more comprehensive relationship between Colombia and China.

Chinese imports from Colombia have risen significantly in the last few years, with China becoming the South American nation's second-biggest trading partner. According to data from Chinese customs authorities, in 2022, bilateral trade in goods amounted to 22.64 billion U.S. dollars, up 13.4 percent year-on-year.

Over the past year, Petro, who assumed presidency in August 2022, has consistently emphasized the government's commitment to carry out profound transformations and turn Colombia into a "World Power of Life" by implementing policies that put nature first and focus on decarbonization, an urgent necessity for the survival of human beings.

China has built the largest installed renewable energy capacity and the largest market for electric vehicles in the world, presenting infinite possibilities of cooperation with Colombia, the fourth-largest economy in Latin America.

To Kerrigan's great delight, an increasing number of Chinese companies are coming to this Latin American country and are actively participating in tendering and bidding for solar parks and other new energy projects.

In an interview with Xinhua before President Petro's departure for Beijing, Guillermo Puyana, president of Colombia China Friendship Association, expressed his belief that joining the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) would be the best bet for Colombia to realize its dreams, like the environmental dream of having greener mountains, bluer waters and clearer skies.

During the visit in China, Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Petro aims to enhance Colombia's involvement in pressing global issues such as peace, development, climate change, and forest conservation, said Puyana, emphasizing that China holds a significant role in these fields, given its commitment to promoting global fairness by guaranteeing that developing countries have access to global public goods.

"There are too many things in common between Colombia and China, and the prospect for cooperation has never been presented in such a stirring way," concluded Puyana.

Luis Diego Monsalve, former ambassador of Colombia to China, emphasized the profound significance of Petro's visit to China as the head of state.

Monsalve told Xinhua on Tuesday that a state visit is always very important because it brings two countries closer, voicing his hope that important cooperation projects would emerge from this unique visit.

"It is a common agenda to protect the environment, to improve living conditions against global warming, and to have better energy sources. In all these fields China is a world leader and could greatly support Colombia. So I think that if projects and agreements emerge in these fields it will mean a lot for Colombia," said the former ambassador.

During President Petro's visit, China and Colombia announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, and a number of bilateral cooperation documents were signed. 
BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin said Thursday that it was a shared priority for Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) members to build resilience amid global challenges.

The SCO must reliably protect citizens and businesses from increasing competition and turbulence, tightening protectionist measures and illegal sanctions that have led to a disruption of the supply chains around the world, Mishustin said in his speech at the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States.

"We will be able to tackle this together. The progressive growth in mutual trade volumes is direct evidence of this," Mishustin noted.

He added that members need to deepen cooperation in the fuel and energy sector, particularly amid energy price volatility.

The Russian prime minister also proposed the establishment of an independent regional payment and settlement mechanism for SCO members. 
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China will remain firmly committed to high-level opening-up and support building an open world economy, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.

In response to a query regarding the U.S. export controls on semiconductors to China and the EU anti-subsidy investigation into electric vehicles from China at a daily news briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning said that openness brings progress while isolation only holds one back.

Noting that China has recently announced it will remove all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector, Mao said this speaks volume to China's determination to take the initiative in opening up further to the world.

She added that the ongoing 134th China Import and Export Fair has attracted numerous businesses and participants.

Next month, China will host the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai and the Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.

For this year's CIIE, the scale of Business Exhibition and the numbers of participating Fortune 500 companies and leading companies in various sectors will hit record high, according to Mao.

"The history of global economic development tells us that one will only get trapped by opting for protectionism, and will not succeed or go far by pursuing decoupling or severing of industrial and supply chains," said the spokesperson. 
Engineering vehicles are seen at a construction site of Hungary-Serbia railway project in Delegyhaza, Hungary, Feb. 22, 2023. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

As Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has said, the real risk is de-risking. The more things are cut off economically, the more likelihood there is for misunderstanding and for an increase in poverty and economic decline, said Gladden John Pappin, president of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs.

by Xinhua writers Ma Zheng, Han Bing, Liu Yang

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by China 10 years ago contributes to the economic wellbeing and security of the world by bringing nations closer, said Gladden John Pappin, president of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs.

European countries ought to view China as an "opportunity" not a "threat," said Pappin during an interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 8th China Global Think Tank Innovation Forum held in Beijing recently, adding that's "the baseline of European interaction with China."

"The model put forward by the BRI has been an excellent one oriented toward the building of infrastructure, soft connectivity and people-to-people connectivity, and that's something desperately needed throughout the world," he said.

As the first European country to sign a BRI cooperation agreement with China, Hungary's economic ties with China have prospered in recent years.



Engineering vehicles are busy at a construction site of Hungary-Serbia railway project in Szabadszallas, Hungary, Feb. 22, 2023. (Xinhua/Zheng Huansong)

"The BRI is something that everyone should take advantage of, and European leaders should be more proud to be a part of it," he said.

The expert dismissed the term of "de-risking" coined by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a China policy speech in March.

"As Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has said, the real risk is de-risking. The more things are cut off economically, the more likelihood there is for misunderstanding and for an increase in poverty and economic decline," he said.

Stressing that the world has become economically interconnected over the past years, Pappin said, "It's just a fact. Any attempt to pull back from that is going to cause a lot of pain and suffering."

Hungary "can't afford to give up its connectivity with the rest of the world," as it wants to have a good relationship with both the West and the East, said Pappin.
SYDNEY, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- A delegation of the Communist Party of China (CPC) wrapped up a four-day visit to Kiribati on Thursday.

The delegation, led by Guo Yezhou, deputy head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, was invited by the ruling Tobwaan Kiribati Party.

During the visit from Oct. 23 to 26, the delegation met with Kiribati Minister for Environment, Lands and Agriculture Development Ruateki Tekaiara, Acting Chief Justice Tetiro Semilota, Minister for Information, Communication, Transport and Tourism Development Tekeeua Tarati, Chairman of the Tobwaan Kiribati Party Betero Atanibora and some other cabinet members.

Both sides acknowledged that the two countries have carried out fruitful cooperation, which proves that the resumption of diplomatic relations is in the interests of the two peoples. The two sides also expressed willingness to further promote a long-term and stable development of the China-Kiribati relations. 
BUENOS AIRES, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Argentina's presidential candidate Patricia Bullrich on Wednesday announced her support for opposition candidate Javier Milei for next month's runoff.

During a press conference, Bullrich, a candidate of the conservative alliance Together for Change who placed third in Sunday's election, announced her backing for Milei, a candidate from the far-right Liberty Advances coalition.

"The urgency challenges us not to be neutral," said Bullrich, a center-right politician and Argentina's security minister from 2015 to 2019.

She garnered nearly 24 percent of the votes in the first round of elections, compared to 37 percent for Economy Minister Sergio Massa and 30 percent for Milei.

"We have differences with Milei, but we have the obligation not to be neutral. We must join forces for a higher goal," said Bullrich, referring to the competition with Massa, a candidate of the ruling Union for the Homeland coalition.

The Together for Change alliance, which governed Argentina between 2015 and 2019 under the leadership of then-president Mauricio Macri, comprises three parties, two of which refused to back Milei.

The winner of the runoff, scheduled for Nov. 19, will succeed incumbent President Alberto Fernandez from Dec. 10, 2023, to Dec. 10, 2027. 
$400 mn ADB loan for Indias urban reform agenda





NEW DELHI :

THE Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a USD 400 million loan to support the Indian Governments urban reform agenda for creating high-quality urban infrastructure and efficient governance systems. The programme also envisages integrated urban planning reforms to control urban sprawls and foster systemic and planned urbanisation through enhancing entire ecosystem of legal, regulatory, and institutional reforms along with capacity building of ULBs and community awareness, ADB said.

The Asian Development Bank has approved a USD 400 million policy-based loan to India for Sub-programme 2 of Sustainable Urban Development and Service Delivery Programme. It aims to support Governments urban reform agenda for improving the quality of urban life through the creation of high-quality urban infrastructure, assured public services, and efficient governance systems, ADB said.

While Subprogramme 1, approved in 2021, established national-level policies and guidelines to improve urban services, Subprogramme 2 is supporting investment planning and reform actions at the state and urban local body (ULB) levels. India has recognised the potential for cities to be centres of economic growth and has emphasised the need to make cities livable through inclusive, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure, which is also in line with ADB Strategy 2030, ADB Principal Urban Development Specialist Sanjay Joshi said.
A staff member boards a train at Lebu Railway Station in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, June 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

The state minister said TVET collaboration with China over the past decades has produced well-trained human resources in Ethiopia, contributing to the sector's development.

ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Collaboration on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has proved crucial to high-quality China-Ethiopia cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), an Ethiopian government official has said.

Teshale Berecha, Ethiopia's state minister of Labor and Skills, told Xinhua that Ethiopia is keen to deepen TVET collaboration with China to attain the much-needed human resource capabilities and eventually a skilled workforce adaptable to the ever-evolving demands of the global job market.

The state minister stressed the crucial role of the TVET sector in the implementation of infrastructure and other socio-economic development projects under the China-proposed BRI.

"Human resource development is the critical impetus to ensuring the quality of infrastructure to be built as part of the BRI," said Berecha.

The Ethiopian government strongly emphasizes the role of the TVET sector in generating the desired trained workforce to support current and future investments across all development sectors in the country, including agriculture, infrastructure development, manufacturing, service and other development sectors, Berecha added.

Ethiopian Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime takes a train operating along the Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, June 30, 2023. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

The state minister said TVET collaboration with China over the past decades has produced well-trained human resources in Ethiopia, contributing to the sector's development.

"We are really grateful for the cooperation between the two countries (in the TVET sector), and we are now upgrading our cooperation to a very high level so as to deepen the previous cooperation to a more increased bilateral connection between the two countries," said the official.

The state minister said the Ethiopian government is currently reforming the education and training sector to improve its quality and relevance to the labor market.

Berecha lauded China's significant achievements in improving the training and education system, and underscored Ethiopia's aspiration to further harness the already thriving China-Ethiopia cooperation in the TVET sector.

"We need to learn a lot from the Chinese experience on how they achieved this high-level growth within a short period of time. We need to explore the 'newcomer advantage' where we can easily learn from our counterparts, like China, to cope with the dynamic environment of technology and labor market needs," the state minister said.

In its BRI cooperation with China, a host of crucial infrastructure development projects in Ethiopia, ranging from roads, railways, industrial parks, energy development projects to export-oriented industries, have yielded tangible results.
Cultural Marxists sully nations media, academia





NAGPUR,

RSS CHIEF Mohan Bhagwat on Tuesday said the Manipur violence was orchestrated, and blamed outside forces for the situation in the North Eastern State. Meiteis and Kukis were living together for a long time there. It is a border State. Who benefits from such secessionism and internal conflict? Outside forces also benefit. Were people from outside involved in what happened there, Bhagwat asked. Addressing the RSS Dussehra rally at Nagpur, Bhagwat also said cultural Marxists and woke elements are using their influence in media and academia to spoil the countrys education and culture. He said the idol of Lord Ram will be installed at Ayodhya temple on January 22, and asked people to organise programmes at temples across the country to celebrate. Bhagwat said, Union Home Minister Amit Shah was in Manipur for three days. Who actually fuelled the conflict? It (violence) is not happening, it is being made to happen. Which foreign powers may be interested in taking advantage of unrest and instability in Manipur? Does the geopolitics of south east Asia also have a role in these events, he asked.

When peace restoration is in sight, some incident occur. It widens the gap between the communities. Who is behind the people who were doing such acts? Who is instigating the violence? he asked. The RSS chief said he was proud of the Sangh workers who worked in Manipur to restore peace. Bhagwat cautioned against attempts to garner votes by inflaming emotions ahead of 2024 general elections. He asked people to vote keeping in mind unity, integrity, identity and development of the country. He referred to the use of toolkits that incite violence and create mutual mistrust and hatred. Those who wish for unity cannot insist that all problems should first end before we think about unity. We will have to work peacefully and with restraint, without getting distracted by sporadic events, he said. Three elements, devotion to the motherland, pride in forefathers, and common culture, make us one nation by tying together all diversities of language, region, religion, sect, caste and sub-caste, Bhagwat said, adding that even those who follow faiths originating from outside India should uphold these elements. Bhagwat said cultural Marxists and woke elements promote anarchy, chaos and corruption. With their influence in media, academia and other sectors, they seek to disrupt societal orderliness, morality, culture, dignity, and restraint, he added. Bhagwat said, Everyone witnessed Bharats genuine goodwill and diplomatic tact in getting the African Union accepted as a member.

By successfully holding the G20 Summit, our leadership has done a commendable job of firmly establishing Bharat as a major nation on the global stage, Bhagwat said. The desire to preserve the identity of Bharat and the identity of the Hindu society is only natural. It is no surprise, then, that a crisis-ridden world expects Bharat to emerge with a new vision based on its own value systems, to meet the contemporary needs and challenges of the globe, he said. The world is facing the scourge of fanaticism, arrogance, and hysteria stemming from religious sectarianism. Any solution to conflicts like the war in Ukraine or the Gaza Strip, which arise due to a clash of interests, extremism, remains elusive, he said.
Abduction Case Cracked CCTV cameras help cops rescue abducted minor sisters before being sold





Staff Reporter

The kingpin of the gang and her associates arrested in the broad daylight kidnapping case of minor sisters on pretext of Kanya Bhoj seem to be connected to national and international human trafficking rackets. Besides, both the kidnapped sisters, police also recovered two other minor girls, including three-month-old Angel and three-year-old Akiro, from the arrested couples home. Their names are of foreign origin, Akiro is a Japanese name, thus, involvement of international human trafficking racket cannot be ruled out. The arrested accused were planning to run away from the State capital along with the four girls kidnapped from Delhi and Bhopal immediately as soon as they finalise deal to sell them. However, they were nabbed by police before they could seal the deal. They were held when they were going to get a reply from the girls dealer after an hour. Police scanned footage of more than 200 CCTV cameras and traced the accused from their home in English Villa Colony in Kolar.

During quizzing, the accused kept misleading the police claiming that a North India based woman doctor had given them the girls to take care. But during investigation police found call recordings which suggested that the accused were bargaining with the woman doctor to sell the abducted minor sisters to any childless couple. Now the police are interrogating the accused in connection with kidnapping of girls in other places including Bhopal. Separate teams of police have been sent to nab the woman doctor. Police said that the accused including Archana Saini (36), her live-in-partner Nishant (31), Archana 19-year-old son Suraj, her minor daughter and Suraj live-in-partner Muskan (20) were arrested. Apart from the abducted sisters Kajal and Deepawali, police recovered two girls named Angel and Akiro who were handed over to the Child Welfare Committee. Initially, Archana claimed that Angel and Akiro were her daughters.

Later, during investigations she revealed that a woman doctor had given them to her to take care of. Police have found their call recordings with the woman doctor in which they were heard bargaining. FIR will be lodged against landlords: According to the information, accused gang members came to Bhopal about four months back. They earlier lived on rent in a house located in Minal Residency. After this, took a house on rent in English Villa Colony of Kolar area about a month ago. The police will now interrogate the landlords who gave houses on rent to the accused. If they have not done police verification of the accused along with the rent agreement, then a case will be registered against them.
Agree to halt Israels treacherous, brutal aggression





BEIRUT,

THE leader of Lebanons Hezbollah group held talks on Wednesday with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures in a key meeting of three top anti-Israel militant groups amid the war raging in Gaza. A brief statement following the meeting said that Hezbollahs leader Hassan Nasrallah agreed with Hamas Saleh al-Arouri and Islamic Jihads leader Ziad al-Nakhleh on the next steps that the three  along with other Iran-backed militants  should take at this sensitive stage. Their goal, according to the statement that was carried on Hezbollah-run and Lebanese state media, was to achieve a real victory for the resistance in Gaza and Palestine and halt Israels treacherous and brutal aggression against our oppressed and steadfast people in Gaza and the West Bank. No other details were provided. The discussions in Beirut came as the war between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that rules the Gaza Strip, is now in its third week. The fighting, triggered by Hamas deadly incursion into Israel on October 7 that killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, has killed more than 5,700 Palestinians in Gaza.

As the Gaza death toll spirals, tensions have also been rising along the tense Lebanon-Israel border, where Hezbollah members have been exchanging fire with Israeli troops since the day after Hamas rampage into Israel. For now, those exchanges remain limited to a handful of border towns and Hezbollah and Israeli military positions on both sides. Lebanese Army soldiers and United Nations peacekeeping forces have deployed in large numbers. Dozens of Hezbollah fighters have been killed in the clashes so far, the group says, while the Israeli military has also announced some deaths among its ranks. Nasrallah has yet to publicly speak about the war in Gaza and clashes along the Lebanon-Israel border. However, other Hezbollah top officials have warned Israel against its planned ground invasion into the besieged territory.

Israeli officials have said they would retaliate aggressively in case of a cross-border attack by Hezbollah from Lebanon. We will cripple it with a force it cannot even imagine, and the consequences for it and the Lebanese state (will be) devastating, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said while visiting Israeli troops along the border with Lebanon on Sunday. Lebanons cash-strapped caretaker Government, along regional and international figures, has been scrambling to keep the country out of the war. Hezbollah and Israel fought a month-long war in 2006 that ended in a tense stalemate. Israel sees Iran-backed Hezbollah as its most serious threat, estimating it has some 150,000 rockets and missiles aimed at Israel.
Cryptocurrency Winter





By Arun Kumar Shrivastav

THE cryptocurrency market is going through a prolonged winter, and very few things seem to be going in its favour, especially from the point of view of dramatic rise in prices and sky-high valuations of crypto coins. However, the cryptocurrency space is witnessing developments of far-reaching significance. For example, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has received legal debacles while dealing with cryptocurrency companies in recent months. The US SEC can be compared with Indias Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Grayscale Trust, a crypto asset fund manager that runs Bitcoin and Ethereum-based trust funds, Grayscale Bitcoin Trust (GBTC) and Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETHE), sued the SEC for rejecting its applications to turn these trust funds into Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), with bitcoin and Ethereum as the underlying assets. The court did not find SECs stance tenable and asked it to re-review its rejection of Grayscales spot bitcoin ETF application. The court questioned the SECs stance of allowing bitcoin futures ETFs but not allowing bitcoin spot ETFs. SEC argued that cryptocurrencies see abnormal price movements and pose significant investor risks. However, the court did not see how the risks differed for futures and spot ETFs. SEC has not moved an appeal against the courts order, and the due time to do so has elapsed, meaning it wont counter the courts verdict.

Many believe it would lead to the launch of the first bitcoin spot ETF in the US market and may herald a new bull run in the cryptocurrency industry. Grayscales trust funds are functioning more like traditional mutual funds, allowing investors exposure to Bitcoin and Ethereum without buying and storing them physically. It allows ordinary investors to trade on the price movements of these two stellar cryptocurrencies without the complications or technicalities of investing in digital assets. It helps expand the investor base for these digital assets. Another court ruling in July left the SEC bruised in the Ripple V. SEC case, which attracted worldwide attention. In this case, the SEC charged blockchain company Ripple Labs and its senior executives with collecting $1.3 billion, beginning in 2013, from investors by selling its native coin XRP and, apparently, promising them higher returns. It makes Ripple Labs and these executives -- Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Executive Chairman Chris Larsen  liable for selling unregistered securities. In a judgement on competing motions for summary judgement, the US court ruled that XRP, when sold to retail investors, is not a security. Still, it could be considered a security when sold to institutional investors. The court has appointed a committee to examine how XRP sales to institutional investors should be treated.

Since the court ruling is on an issue that comes in the way to the final judgement, it was dealt with priority and SEC cant appeal unless it is of paramount importance. The SEC did find it worth appealing, but the judge -- Analisa Torres of the Southern District of New York -- didnt find merit in its appeal and dismissed it. Ripple has been embroiled in this case since December 2022, now nearing three years. Its a long period in the space of cryptocurrency, which promises lightning quick and dirt cheap cross-border payments without a regulator or Government monitoring the transactions. Ripple is among the most promising technology providers for delivering quick and cheap remittance services for established traditional financial institutions globally. Before the SEC brought the charges against Ripple, it was believed to be closing on other payment systems, such as SWIFT, in the race to become the best. In the latest, the SEC has decided to drop the charges against Ripple executives Garlinghouse and Larsen, and Ripple has claimed the SEC decision was a surrender by the regulators.

A new report from Morgan Stanley last week says the crypto winter could be over, and a new spring may see the light of day in 2024. Recently, G20 accepted the recommendations of a joint report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the Financial Stability Board (FSB). It calls for member countries to enact laws to govern cryptocurrencies. It also calls for enhanced cooperation and collaboration among cross-border regulators. Both these areas  effective legislation and regulatory monitoring- have remained neglected and missing not only in cryptocurrencies but also in traditional finance. For example, when did we hear someone took an Indian regulator to the court? Jurisdictions like India are still managing their affairs largely informally and guided by the whims and fancies of bureaucrats and political appointees.
Faggan Kulaste welcomes Indian nationals from war-torn Israel





Our Correspondent

MANDLA,

The Central Government started Operation Ajay 11 days ago to bring back Indian citizens stuck in Israel back to India. Under Operation Ajay, sixth private plane carrying Indian citizens from Israel reached New Delhi International Airport. Kulaste welcomed the citizens who returned India from Israel amid war and had a cordial conversation with them. It is noteworthy that in view of the war between Israel and Hamas, Indian citizens had expressed their desire to return to India, hence Prime Minister Narendra Modi decided to bring back Indian citizens living in Israel safely to the country. So far, more than 1500 Indian citizens have been brought back to safety.
Its not only our right,asserts Israel.. its our duty to destroy Hamas





Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen speaks during a UN Security Council meeting on Tuesday. (AP/PTI)

RAFAH (Gaza Strip),

Tell me, what is a proportionate response for killing of babies, for rape (of) women and burn them, for beheading a child? asks Cohen while dismissing UN call for ceasefire

ISRAELI Foreign Minister Eli Cohen told the UN Security Council that the proportionate response to the October 7 attack is a total destruction to the last one of the militants. It is not only Israels right to destroy Hamas. Its our duty, he said. Cohen also dismissed calls for proportionality in the countrys response to Hamas surprise attacks during the UN meeting for ceasefire. Tell me, what is a proportionate response for killing of babies, for rape (of) women and burn them, for beheading a child? Cohen asked. How can you agree to a cease-fire with someone who swore to kill and destroy your own existence? Cohen called the October 7 attacks a wake-up call for the entire free world against extremism, and he urged the civilised world to stand united behind Israel to defeat Hamas. And he warned that today it is Israel, and tomorrow Hamas and the attackers will be at everyones doorstep, starting with the West.

Cohen also accused Qatar of financing Hamas and said the fate of the more than 200 hostages taken from Israel, some of whose families came to the UN meeting, was in the hands of its emir. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres opened the monthly meeting on the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict  which has turned into a major event with ministers from the wars key parties and a dozen other countries flying to New York  warning that the situation in the Middle East is growing more dire by the hour. Guterres stressed that the rules of war must be obeyed. Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al-Maliki demanded an end to the Israeli attacks. We are here today to stop the killing, to stop  the ongoing massacres being deliberately and systematically and savagely perpetrated by Israel, the occupying power, against the Palestinian civilian population, he said.

Over 2 million Palestinians are on a survival mission every day, every night. Under international law, he said it is our collective human duty to stop them. Al-Maliki warned that more attacks and killings and weapons and alliances wont make Israel safer: Only peace will. Meanwhile, Israel said on Tuesday it had launched 400 airstrikes over the past day, killing Hamas commanders, hitting militants as they prepared to fire rockets into Israel and striking command centers and a Hamas tunnel shaft. Israel reported 320 strikes the day before. Israels escalated airstrikes across the Gaza Strip crushed families in the rubble of residential buildings, as health officials said hundreds of Palestinians were killed in the past day and medical facilities were shut down because of bomb damage and lack of power. The massive air bombardment continued through the night as Israeli jets hit sites across Gaza, the Hamas-run Interior Ministry said. The soaring death toll from the bombardment is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It augurs an even greater loss of life in Gaza once Israeli forces backed by tanks and artillery launch an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas militants. Gazas 2.3 million people have been running out of food, water and medicine since Israel sealed off the territory following the devastating Oct 7 attack by Hamas on towns in southern Israel.

The Gaza Health Ministry, which is run by Hamas, said Israeli airstrikes killed at least 704 people over the past day, mostly women and children. The Associated Press could not independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors. In Washington, White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters that the US also could not verify that one-day death toll. The Ministry of Health is run by Hamas, and I think that all needs to be factored into anything that they put out publicly. Across central and south Gaza, where Israel told civilians to take shelter, there were multiple scenes of rescuers pulling the dead and wounded out of large piles of rubble from collapsed buildings. Graphic photos and video shot by the AP showed rescuers unearthing bodies of children from multiple ruins.

A father knelt on the floor of the Al-Aqsa Hospital in Deir Al-Balah next to the bodies of three dead children cocooned in bloodied sheets. Later at the nearby morgue, workers prayed over 24 dead wrapped in body bags, several of them the size of small children. Buildings that collapsed on residents killed dozens at a time in several cases, witnesses said. Two families lost a total 47 members in a levelled home in Rafah, the Health Ministry said. A strike on a four-story building in Khan Younis killed at least 32 people, including 13 members of the Saqallah family, said Ammar al-Butta, a relative who survived the airstrike. He said there were about 100 people sheltering in the building, including many who had evacuated from Gaza City. We thought that our area would be safe, he said. Another strike destroyed a bustling marketplace in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, witnesses said. AP photos showed the floor of a vegetable shop covered with blood. In Gaza City, at least 19 people were killed when an airstrike hit the house of the Bahloul family, according to survivors, who said dozens more people remained buried. The legs of a dead woman and another person, both still half buried, dangled out of the wreckage where workers dug through the dirt, concrete and rebar.

The Health Ministry says more than 5,700 Palestinians have been killed in the war, including some 2,300 minors. The figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week. The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel  mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. As the death toll in Gaza spirals, and fuel supplies dwindle, the number of facilities able to deal with casualties is shrinking. More than half of primary health care facilities, and roughly 1 of every 3 hospitals, have stopped functioning, the World Health Organisation said. Overwhelmed hospital staff struggled to triage cases as constant waves of wounded were brought in. The Health Ministry said many wounded are laid on the ground without even simple medical intervention and others wait for days for surgeries because there are so many critical cases. While Israel has allowed a small number of trucks filled with aid to enter, it has barred deliveries of fuel to Gaza to keep it out of Hamas hands. The UN said its operation distributing aid will halt Wednesday evening if it does not receive fuel. To make room for the dead, cemeteries have been forced to excavate and reuse old plots. Families have dug trenches to bury multiple bodies at a time.

Bodies pour in by the hundreds every day. We use every empty inch in the cemeteries, said Abdel Rahman Mohamed, a volunteer who helps transfer bodies to Khan Younis main cemetery. Israel says it does not target civilians and that Hamas militants are using them as cover for their attacks. Palestinian militants have fired over 7,000 rockets at Israel since the start of the war, according to Israel, and Hamas said it fired a fresh barrage on Tuesday. On Monday, Hamas released two elderly Israeli women who were among the roughly 220 people Israel says were taken hostage during the Oct. 7 attack and forced into Gaza. Appearing weak in a wheelchair and speaking softly, 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz told reporters Tuesday that the militants beat her with sticks, bruising her ribs and making it hard to breathe as they kidnapped her.

They drove her into Gaza, then forced her to walk several kilometers (miles) on wet ground to reach a network of tunnels that looked like a spider web, she said. Once there, she said, she was treated well, fed and given medical care. Lifshitz and 79-year-old Nurit Cooper were freed days after an American woman and her teenage daughter were released. The Israeli military dropped leaflets in Gaza asking Palestinians to reveal information on the hostages whereabouts. In exchange, the military promised a reward and protection for the informants home. Iranian-backed fighters around the region are warning of possible escalation, including the targeting of US forces deployed in the Mideast, if a ground offensive is launched. Israel and Hezbollah have traded fire almost daily across the Israel-Lebanon border.
Meagre! Compensation of Rs 10,000is inadequate





By Kaushik Bhattacharya

In spite of the heavy damages the floods inflicted upon the citizens, the administration has neither taken concrete measures yet to avoid recurrence of a similar tragedy, nor has offered adequate relief to people affected by the floods. Rameshwari Bansod, a resident of Yashwant Nagar near Ambazari Lake, her mother, and two elder sisters are still staring at the challenges in rebuilding their lives which were left devastated by the floods. Rameshwari Bansod another resident of Yashwant Nagar near Ambazari Lake, still awaits the nominal compensation for flood relief promised by the administration. It was a matter of few hours when the September 23 floods destroyed her hard-earned money and disturbed her life. Interacting with The Hitavada, Rameshwari recounted that nights horror and also lamented about the inadequate compensation that was announced by the government.

We live in a single-storey house at Yashwant Nagar. That night (September 23), the frequent lightning scared us, but we never thought that flood in Naag river would follow. Heavy rains continued till 2 am. Around 4.30 am, we noticed that flood water started entering our house, and then we panicked, Rameshwari recalled. Initially, Rameshwari and her two elder sisters started collecting valuables in the house to keep them safe from the ankle-high water. Within another 15 minutes, water level increased up to 4 feet. It became difficult for them to stay inside the house as water level was fast rising. So, they decided to leave the house and took shelter in their neighbours house. We were unable to shut the main door of the house due to waterlogging, so we left it all open, she said. Those few hours of wait for the water level to recede were the longest in the life of Bansod family. The water level started decreasing after 11 am on September 23, after which the three sisters went back to their house. They were shocked to see that everything in the house was soaked, with mud deposited in the house. It took more than seven days for the family to clean the house. We are still trying to dry our books, Rameshwari added.

Asked about the compensation and help from the administration, Rameshwari replied with a blend of lament and anger in her voice, We lost our refrigerator, television, kitchen utensils, books, furniture, clothes etc. The cost of all these run into lakhs of rupees. However, the administration is offering just Rs 10,000, which cannot compensate for all this. But, there is more that concerns her. It is the fear of recurrence of a similar situation in future. She has a reason to offer. The people in the locality have complained many a time to Nagpur Municipal Corporation that the storm water drainage in the area got choked often during monsoon. But, she rued, no action was taken by the civic body in this regard. Thus, apart from inadequate compensation, fear of impending crisis and undertainty that may arise out of it, is also haunting the residents of the area.
NEW WINDS





THE return of former Prime Minister Mr. Nawaz Sharif to the country is sure to alter the direction of political winds in Pakistan in the next some time. Trying to ride on the wave of popular emotion, Mr. Sharif recalled how he was not allowed to see his wife when she was dying. The manner in which the crowds cheered for him indicated that Mr. Nawaz Sharif may be able to stage a powerful comeback in Pakistani politics and ride back to power. If that happens, then democracy may have a chance -- though slender -- to return to the country troubled by military authoritarianism and comprehensive economic crisis. If that happens in a true sense, then some hope may be harboured about a possible recovery of Pakistan from the present bankruptcy not only of money but also of popular participation in decision-making process. However, going by what Pakistan has been over the past seven-plus decades since its formation, to harbour a hope for democracy to return may be preposterous. Yet, that hope cannot be totally abandoned for Pakistan has seen democracy to raise itself into centrestage occasionally. In democracy, Pakistans honourable survival-key also can be found. Hence the expectation. Given other dimensions of Pakistans political scenario, Mr. Nawaz Sharif is most likely to be the central point of the political activity in the next some time.

For, after he has been chastened severely, former Prime Minister Mr. Imran Khan may not be able to make a strong bid to premiership again. Several legal cases plus a loss of reasonably big political base after he demitted office, may hamper Mr. Imran Khans chances to return with a bang. No matter the hype he kicks up, Mr. Imran Khan may not be able to equal the emotional support Mr. Nawaz Sharif has been able to kick up much political dust in his favour. On the ground of reality, an accurate rating of Pakistani political leaders is not possible, thanks to the dominance of the military in national affairs. Most Prime Ministers have ridden on the shoulders of the Army establishment, with scant commitment to democracy as a credible system of governance. At least until now, any politician whom the Army backs has becomes a choice of the nation to be the leader. Going by this prevailing precondition, Mr. Nawaz Sharif may need to cosy up with the Army establishment -- which he may even be doing on the sly. If that happens, then Mr. Sharifs return to power may become a surer reality. At this stage, however, everything is fluid and no sure-fire prediction is possible about what turn Pakistans electoral politics may take in the coming months.

With return of Mr. Nawaz Sharif to political centrestage, most equations will change. Mr. Imran Khan may find things quite difficult. For, until now, there was no political leader with equal popularity to dare Mr. Imran Khan -- so that he could influence popular mood to a great extent. With the return of Mr. Sharif, Pakistans domestic politics has assumed another pole. From now on, Pakistani politics will witness the clash between two titans of equal importance in many ways: Both are former Prime Ministers; both went out of office because the Army was displeased with them; both have much popular support; both represent Pakistans political aristocracy of sorts. The one who is able to whip up popular sentiment in his favour will emerge the winner, provided, of course, Mr. Imran Khan steers clear of the legal hassles dogging him. The same may be the case with Mr. Nawaz Sharif though of a different nature. Only time will tell who is able to use the situation better in his favour.
Prahlad Patel will create history in new role: CM





NARSINGHPUR,

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has claimed that Union Minister Prahlad Patel will create history in this new role as the minister contesting the forthcoming State Assembly polls from Narsinghpur constituency. CM Chouhan made the remark while addressing gathering in a meeting in favour of Union Minister Patel in Narsinghpur district on Wednesday. I am satisfied that Prahlad Patel is contesting legislative assembly elections from Narsinghpur. I am happy and proud. I am here on the occasion when he will file the nomination, Chouhan said. He further said that God sent everyone for special work and they too were sent to this earth for some reason. Therefore, whatever responsibility he got in the political field, he tried to fulfil it with hard work and honesty. God sends everyone for special work. I say from my conscience that we too have been sent to this earth for some reasons. Therefore, whatever responsibility I got in the political field, I tried to fulfil it with hard work and honesty. I have full confidence that Prahlad Patel will create a new history in this new role, CM Chouhan added.
Resign Thunders Israel





By Yoshita Singh :

UNITED NATIONS

Asks UN chief Guterres to quit for justifying terror Tel Avivs angry reaction came after UN chiefs statement, It is important to also recognise the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation, referring to Israel without naming.

UN SECRETARY-GENERAL Antonio Guterress comment to the Security Council that attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum angered Israel, which called for the UN chiefs resignation and apology. Israels Minister of Foreign Affairs Eli Cohen, who participated in a Security Council ministerial meeting on the Israel-Gaza situation here, was scheduled to meet Guterres later Tuesday afternoon in the UN headquarters cancelled his meeting with Guterres after remarks by the UN chief to the Security Council angered Israel, accusing him of tolerating and justifying terrorism. Addressing the council, Guterres said the situation in the Middle East is growing more dire by the hour and the war in Gaza is raging and risks spiralling throughout the region. The UN chief said it is important to also recognise the attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum.

The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation. They have seen their land steadily devoured by settlements and plagued by violence; their economy stifled; their people displaced and their homes demolished. Their hopes for a political solution to their plight have been vanishing, Guterres said in the meeting, which was also addressed by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. But the grievances of the Palestinian people cannot justify the appalling attacks by Hamas. And those appalling attacks cannot justify the collective punishment of the Palestinian people, Guterres said. In a post on X, Cohen said he will not meet with the UN Secretary-General. After the October 7th massacre, there is no place for a balanced approach. Hamas must be erased off the face of the planet! Later talking to reporters at the UN Security Council stakeout, Israels Ambassador to the UN Gilad Erdan lashed out at Guterres, saying his remarks in the council are unfathomable.

You, Mr. Secretary General, have lost all morality and impartiality. Because when you say those terrible words that these heinous attacks did not happen in a vacuum, you are tolerating terrorism and by tolerating terrorism, you are justifying terrorism. Erdan said that Hamas beheaded babies, burnt families, raped women and abducted kids, babies and Holocaust survivors, but the secretary general is blaming Israel and the victim. This is a pure-blood libel. This is a pure-blood libel. And I think that the secretary general must resign because from now on every day that hes here in this building unless he apologises immediately today, we called him to apologise, there is no justification to the existence of this building, Erdan said. Erdan said the UN building was established to prevent atrocities.

How can the secretary general, with his words, justify in any way the terrible atrocities that happened to our civilians, innocent civilians? Israel denies visas to UN officials: ISRAELS ambassador to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan on Wednesday said that his country will deny visas to the UN officials after remarks by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that appeared to justify Hamas assault on Israel. Due to his remarks we will refuse to issue visas to UN representatives, Erdan tells Army Radio. We have already refused a visa for Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Martin Griffiths, Erdan said. The time has come to teach them a lesson. In a post on X, Erdan called on Guterres to resign immediately.
Video: The United States and China must find a way to get along for the benefit of all, Chinese ambassador to the United States Xie Feng said on Oct. 24, 2023. (Xinhua)

While a lot has changed, the historical logic underlying the growth of the China-U.S. relationship has not, says Xie Feng.

NEW YORK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The United States and China must find a way to get along for the benefit of all, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng said here on Tuesday.

"Going forward, we need to find a right way for China and the United States to get along in the new era," said Xie at the Gala Dinner 2023 of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations. "We will be celebrating the 45th anniversary of the establishment of China-U.S. diplomatic ties next year. The China-U.S. relationship will continue to be the most important bilateral relationship in the world."

"It is China's consistent belief that our two countries should be partners, not rivals; that we should pursue win-win outcomes, not zero-sum game; and that we should together stabilize and improve this relationship, not allow it to slide into conflict or confrontation," he said.

The three principles outlined by President Xi Jinping, namely, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, "represent our long-term and fundamental approach to China-U.S. relations and provide a guideline for exploring the path forward," said Xie.

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng speaks at the annual Gala Dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations in New York, the United States, on Oct. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Rui)

The ambassador noted that while a lot has changed, the historical logic underlying the growth of the China-U.S. relationship has not: "The importance of the relationship for our respective development and world prosperity is not to be underestimated, the aspiration of our peoples for peace and friendship is not to be dismissed, and the efforts of generations of peoples and our extensive common interests are not to be denied."

"At present, stabilizing China-U.S. relations is a common expectation," he said, adding that positive signs of a more stable China-U.S. relationship have been welcomed by various communities in both countries and the international community.

Recently, the two countries have had a series of high-level interactions. China has resumed group tours to the United States; direct flights will increase to 48 every week; and dialogue and exchanges between think tanks, provinces and states, and the legislature are on the rise, Xie noted.

"More high-level interactions are on the way. In two days, Foreign Minister Wang Yi will visit the United States. We hope the U.S. side will work with China in the same direction, shorten the negative list, expand the positive agenda, and bring China-U.S. relations back to the right track of sound and stable growth," he said.

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng speaks at the annual Gala Dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations in New York, the United States, on Oct. 24, 2023. (Xinhua/Li Rui)

"If we can learn anything from the ups and downs in China-U.S. relations over the past few years, it is that conflict between China and the United States should never be allowed, decoupling will never work, Cold-War confrontation will lead nowhere, reversing the downward spiral is a shared wish, and messing up this relationship serves no one's interest," said Xie.

Meanwhile, difficulties and challenges remain, said the ambassador. "But to our encouragement, supporters of exchanges and cooperation between China and the United States are never absent. Friends from the U.S. business and strategic communities have been visiting China, calling for seizing China's opportunities and further tapping its market."

"I am more convinced that the hope and foundation of the China-U.S. relationship lie in the people, and its future lies in the youths. It is the warmhearted, hardworking and open-minded American people, just like those of Iowa, who define what America truly is," said Xie, citing his recent trip to Muscatine, the city President Xi visited in 1985.

"The growth of China-U.S. relations could not be achieved without the strategic guidance of our leaders. Nor will it be achieved without the participation and support by people from various communities in both countries," he said.

"I count on the National Committee (on U.S.-China Relations) and all our friends here to continue playing a leading role in restoring China-U.S. relations back to the right track," Xie said. "Together, let us explore a path of win-win cooperation between China and the United States for the benefits of both peoples and the world." 
Under scanner Man posing as Armyman to impress kin arrested





Staff Reporter

Military Intelligence personnel arrested a suspected man dressed in Army Combat Uniform while wandering in Sadar Market under the jurisdiction of Cantt police station. Military personnel found 5 ATM cards, 4 Aadhar cards, 2 PAN cards from the suspected man identified as Osee Sahab. After verification of documents, the suspected man was handed over to Cantt Police for further investigation.

Thereafter, different investigation agencies interrogated the suspect and learnt that all the documents and cards found with the fake Armyman were genuine and he is a resident of Kaimoor in Bihar. During interrogation, the fraudster disclosed that he along with his wife and sister-in-law reached Jabalpur on September 28 and were staying at a rented room in Naya Mohalla area. He attired as an Armyman just to show off his family members and relatives in Bihar that he was recruited in the Army and posted in Jabalpur. Cantt police have registered a case while further investigations are underway to ascertain the involvement of apprehended man in any suspicious activities.
ISLAMABAD, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The China-Pakistan Joint Research Center on Earth Sciences (CPJRC), a high-level scientific and technological innovation platform between the two countries, has been inaugurated here at Quaid-i-Azam University, aimed at promoting sci-tech cooperation against climate-induced disasters and on talent cultivation.

The CPJRC inaugurated on Wednesday will act as a national platform for China-Pakistan science and education cooperation, covering research areas including tectonics, environment, ecology, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.

Talking to Xinhua about the research center, Shahid Iqbal, an assistant professor at Earth Sciences Department of Quaid-i-Azam University said that a campus building is planned to be built for the center to use, and currently, the university has assigned a building for its operation.

He added that the center is committed to making recommendations on the mitigation of climate change impacts and sustainable development initiatives for the economic development of Pakistan.

"It is also a very good opportunity for academia in Pakistan and young students who will have access to the modern research in the fields of earth sciences of China," he added.

To mark the inauguration of the center, an event was held in the university's earth sciences department gathering a large number of students, and Chinese and Pakistani academics, and officials.

Speaking at the event, Pakistan's caretaker Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Kausar Abdullah Malik, said the climate-induced food security challenge is a big concern for Pakistan, and the center represents a great hope.

He said China has a very resilient agricultural system and possesses the technology and research capability to address challenges posed by excessive rains, drought, and other climatic conditions, so the transfer of research through the center will help Pakistan learn from China and adopt its methods.

Implementing sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices is crucial to mitigating the impact of climate change on food security and ensuring the long-term sustainability of agriculture, he said, adding the center will be highly beneficial in this endeavor.

Speaking at the event, Mukhtar Ahmed, chairman of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) said that in 2018, the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the HEC signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to promote construction of the center, with strong support from the leadership of both countries.

Regarding Pakistan-China relations, he said whenever Pakistan faces problems, China is always there to offer support, adding, "We extend our warm regards to the people and government of China, as well as the academic community, for their continuous support as the center is another example of the great support."

In his remarks, CPJRC Director-General Cui Peng said the center will also study and evaluate impacts from geo-hazards and climate change to the area of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the local sustainable development.

"The CPEC suffers from frequent natural hazards, fragile environment and ecosystem, and multiple limited factors for social-economic development, affecting the local resilience and sustainable development. Solving such challenges through research, supporting sustainable development of the CPEC, is the joint goal of scientists from both countries," he added.

Launched in 2013, the CPEC under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a corridor linking Pakistan's Gwadar port with Kashgar in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, highlighting energy, transport, and industrial cooperation.

In his address, Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong noted that the CPEC is a key factor in promoting an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era and the bilateral all-weather strategic cooperative partnership, adding that advancing technical innovation and green, sustainable development is in the benefit of the two countries and peoples. 
China to enhance political mutual trust with Kyrgyzstan: premier

Xinhua) 08:51, October 26, 2023

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BISHKEK, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to continue to enhance political mutual trust with Kyrgyzstan, strengthen the alignment of development strategies, and seek more convergence points of common interests for mutual achievement and common development, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Wednesday.

China-Kyrgyzstan relations have maintained high-level development in recent years, said Li during his talks with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov.

During their meeting in May, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov drew a new blueprint for the development of China-Kyrgyzstan relations and defined new tasks for promoting bilateral cooperation, Li said.

China is willing to work with Kyrgyzstan to translate the important consensus reached by the two heads of state into concrete actions, push for new achievements in bilateral cooperation in various fields, and continuously improve the well-being of the two peoples, Li added.

The Chinese premier said both sides should well implement their medium- and long-term economic cooperation and trade exchange plan, and expand the trade scale and optimize their trade structure.

China and Kyrgyzstan should speed up the construction of key projects such as the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway as well as port cooperation to enhance interconnectivity, Li said.

The two countries should also expand cooperation in emerging industries such as advanced manufacturing, digital economy, new energy vehicles, smart agriculture, and clean energy to foster new growth drivers, he said.

The two sides should also deepen people-to-people and cultural exchanges in areas including medical care, education, and tourism to promote connectivity between the two peoples, he added.

Li said that China stands ready to strengthen multilateral coordination and cooperation with Kyrgyzstan, implement the outcomes of the China-Central Asia Summit, promote the building of a closer China-Central Asia community with a shared future, carry forward the Shanghai Spirit under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to inject more certainty and positive energy into regional stable development and contribute to world peace, security and development.

For his part, the Kyrgyz prime minister said this year has been a fruitful year for Kyrgyzstan-China relations.

President Japarov paid a successful state visit to China, during which the two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era, bringing bilateral relations to a historic high, he said.

Kyrgyzstan firmly supports China on Taiwan, Xinjiang-related, Xizang-related, and Hong Kong-related issues which concern China's core interests, and is willing to work with China to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, deepen Belt and Road cooperation, enhance connectivity, advance the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, and further expand cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, tourism, education and culture, he added.

The prime minister also said Kyrgyzstan supports the Global Security Initiative and other major initiatives proposed by China and would like to work with China to combat the "three forces" and transnational organized crimes, deepen China-Central Asia cooperation, and jointly promote regional prosperity and stability.

After the talks, Li and Japarov witnessed the signing of a number of documents regarding bilateral cooperation in neighboring regions, and on the digital economy, sub-national friendship, and infrastructure.

They also jointly inaugurated the Chinese Cultural Center in Bishkek.

Also on Wednesday, Li laid a wreath at the Great Urkun memorial.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov jointly unveil the nameplate of the China Cultural Center in Bishkek after their meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)

(Web editor: Tian Yi, Liang Jun)
Qabil Ashirov

On October 26, at about 07:00 (GMT+4), Elchin Valiyev, born in 1970 and a resident of the Talysh village, Terter district, has stepped on an anti-personnel mine, the Interior Ministry of Azerbaijan told Azernews.

Valiyev was immediately taken to the hospital. As a result of his injuries, one of his arms was amputated.

The fact is under investigation.

The Press Service of the Mine Action Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ANAMA) has also issued information regarding the incident and called on citizens to avoid entering hazardous areas, behave responsibly, and adhere to the required safety regulations!
Visitors look at models of mining equipment during the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

TIANJIN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened in north China's Tianjin Municipality on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry.

Several sub-forums will take place during the event, with topics including mining equipment, green mine development and intelligent mining.

"We will share experience and opportunities with an open attitude, and promote interaction between industrial development and resource supply," said Wang Guanghua, China's minister of natural resources, adding that China is the world's largest producer, consumer and trader of mineral products.

Mining remains the bulwark of the African economy, contributing substantially to revenue and gross domestic product (GDP). Promoting the high-quality development of mining is of the utmost importance to spur Africa's economic development, according to Samuel A. Jinapor, the minister for lands and natural resources of Ghana.

"It is our hope that through this conference, the Sino-African relationship will be strengthened and that we will see an increased Chinese investment in the mining industry of Africa and, of course, my country, Ghana," the official said. 

Guests attend the opening ceremony of the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

A visitor walks past models of mining equipment in sea area during the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

People visit the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

A staff member of an exhibitor talks with a visitor during the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Visitors look at models of mining equipment during the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality, Oct. 26, 2023. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

This photo taken on Oct. 26, 2023 shows the opening ceremony of the 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition at Tianjin Meijiang Convention Center in north China's Tianjin Municipality. The 25th China Mining Conference and Exhibition opened here on Thursday, attracting more than 260 exhibitors and approximately 5,000 visitors from nearly 30 countries and regions.

The three-day event, themed "Innovation promotes the high-quality development of mining," aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in the global mining industry. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)
Govt did not do enough to keep Bahamas off blacklist, says White
PM outlines new financial legislative agenda

Govt to focus on new Registrar General Bill, Consumer Protection Bill, Securities Industry Bill, and Digital Assets and Registered Exchanges Bill
From left, Chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) Fred Mitchell and PLP Secretary General Barbara Cartwright announced the partys upcoming national convention yesterday. photos: Torrell Glinton
BEIRUT, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib on Thursday slammed Israel for continuing its threats against Lebanon, calling for a cease-fire to reduce tension in the region.

"Israel must stop threatening to return Lebanon to the Stone Age," Bou Habib was quoted by the National News Agency as saying.

He made the remarks when meeting with nine foreign ambassadors in Beirut. "The cease-fire is the beginning of the path to reducing tension in the region and preventing the expansion of the conflict," the minister added.

The Lebanese-Israeli border has seen increased tension for the past dozen days after Lebanon-based armed group Hezbollah fired on Oct. 8 tens of rockets toward Israeli military sites in support of a surprise attack launched by Hamas on Oct. 7 on Israel, prompting heavy artillery fire from the Israeli side.

Also on Thursday, two Hezbollah fighters were killed during confrontations with the Israeli army on the border, according to a statement by the Lebanese Shiite military group.

Sources from Lebanese Internal Security Forces told Xinhua that an Israeli drone raided the Shanouh area outside Kfarchouba village, while warplanes raided the outskirts of the villages of Kafr Kila and Yaroun and the town of Deir Mimas.

The sources added that Israeli artillery also bombed several Lebanese villages, causing damage to a number of homes and igniting fires in the forests.

Meanwhile, Hezbollah announced that it had attacked the Israeli site of Hanita with guided missiles and artillery, destroying several technical equipment. 
That release could not be found.
The Labour Party (LP) has expressed shock over the judgement of the supreme court affirming the victory of President Bola Tinubu.

In a unanimous decision on Thursday, the seven-member panel of the apex court dismissed the petitions of Peter Obi of the LP and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenging Tinubus victory in the February 25 election.

Reacting to the verdict, Julius Abure, LP national chairman, who rejected the judgment, called on the international community to rise and defend democracy in Nigeria.

Abure also described the judgement as shocking and surprising.

We are indeed very shocked and surprised that even the apex Court will toe the line of an earlier judgement in spite of all the flaws associated with the judgement delivered by the Presidential Election Appeal Tribunal.

Having conclusively exercised our fundamental rights as gifted to us by the laws of the land, we have no other choice but to move on.

We may be disappointed and dismayed by the outcome of the exercise, but we have chosen to trudge on and to remain optimistic of what the future holds for the nation.

However, there are great lessons to be learnt. What transpired in Nigeria since the February 25 presidential election is a clear testament that our institutions are not working and that we may be sliding towards dictatorship.

It is very clear that the executive has hijacked both the judiciary and the legislature.

This is so unfortunate for our democracy, and it is even more for the people of Nigeria.

All what our forbearers taught us has been destroyed within a short space of time because of the Unbridled ambition of a few.

The founding fathers fought with their lives to achieve independence for the country. People lost their lives for the struggle to keep our democracy and all these years people have been struggling to achieve electoral and constitutional reforms.

Regrettably, all of these efforts and struggles have been destroyed today.

We are also calling on the International community to rise to the occasion to defend democracy in Nigeria.

Your voices were loud and clear in condemnation of the outcome of the presidential election.

As we approach the next stage of our democratic journey, we call on you to stand by the millions of Nigerians who are already pushed beyond their limits into unnecessary hardship and penury.

Abure asked Nigerians not to lose hope, adding that a new Nigeria is still possible.
NANJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Cao Guangjing, former vice governor of central China's Hubei Province, stood trial on Thursday on charges of accepting bribes and divulging inside information.

Cao was indicted for taking advantage of his positions in Hubei between 2004 and 2022 to seek assistance for others in business operations, project contracting and personal promotion, and illegally accepted money and property worth a total of 216 million yuan (30.1 million U.S. dollars).

He was also charged with intentionally divulging inside information to others, leading to illegal profits of 10.42 million yuan in 2021, according to the prosecution.

The case was heard at a court in Xuzhou City, east China's Jiangsu Province. Cao pleaded guilty and expressed remorse in court.

A verdict will be announced in due course. 
Phuket MP questions Patong Tunnel delay

PHUKET: Phuket MP Chalermpong Saengdee has questioned the delay in proceeding with the construction of the Patong Tunnel with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, with the Deputy Minister of Transport present.

tourismtransportpatongconstruction

By The Phuket News

Thursday 26 October 2023 05:20 PM

MP Chalermpong presented his case to the Speaker of the House of Representatives today (Oct 26).

Mr Chalermpong explained that Patong as a tourist destination is a main source of income, and safe access to the town is vital.

Each year there are a large number of both Thai and foreign tourists coming to visit. But aside from tourists, there are many residents in the area, most of whom live in Kathu subdistrict, who each day travel back and forth between Kathu and Patong to work to earn money to support the family.

Traveling to Patong City is mostly done by car and motorbikes. There are only three routes. The Kamala-Patong Road (Route 4030) and the Karon-Patong Road (also Route 4030) are considered the long way (round) if traveling from Phuket Town.

Wichit Songkhram Rd (Route 4029) is the shortest distance, making it popular for traveling by citizens and tourists. But it is a route that must pass through steep mountains. There are dangerous curves on the slopes, especially during the rainy season. Accidents often occur, causing traffic and property damage. Road users are injured, and many times there are deaths of both Thais and foreigners, Mr Chalermpong explained.

Not long ago there was an accident involving a pickup and a truck. Tourists have accidents, falling off the mountain, and there are many other similar accidents, he added.

Mr Chalermpong pointed out that the idea for building a tunnel between Kathu and Patong was raised more than 20 years ago.

In fact, there has been a study of the construction of the Kathu-Patong tunnel a long time ago, since the time of the late former Mayor of Patong, Mr Pian Keesin, in 2000.

If built at that time, the budget would be B2.4 billion, but the project was delayed, and until now there hasnt been any progress yet, he said.

Out of necessity and the needs of the people in the area plus the fact that Patong is a world-known tourist city, traveling to and from there is therefore considered an urgent and important matter that today Patong people and the public in general cant wait for any longer, he said.

Today, I would like to ask the President and pass on to the Deputy Minister of Transport that the government, through the Ministry of Transport, carry out the Kathu-Patong tunnel construction project joining Wichit Songkhram Rd and Phra Metta Rd (in Patong), he added.

Mr Chalrmpong explained the plans currently set out to build the 1.85km tunnel and to develop the supporting main raids to provide access to and from the tunnel.

When will this project be done? And what will the government do to solve the problem [of traffic accidents] while waiting for the construction of the Kathu-Patong tunnel? How will they protect peoples lives from accidents that frequently occur on this route? Ministry of Transport, how will you fix this problem? Mr Chalermpong posed.

Mr Chalermpong thanked the Speaker and the Deputy Minister for Transport.

I also have related questions. I would like to ask the President and pass on to the Deputy Minister of Transport that Luang Pu Supha Road in Chalong Subdistrict is another route that connects Patong with Phuket Town. This project has been under construction since 2022, he said.

But the current road condition is heavily damaged. It is hardly usable. The road used the budget of the local government organisation [PPAO] for construction. But if it is improved to be usable, It will become one of the options for people traveling to Patong. Is this possible? he asked.

If the government through the Ministry of Transport Will be able to carry out the project Improve said road To our brothers and sisters in Patong And brothers and sisters in Phuket? And how?

The project ground to a halt in April after 13 companies failed to enter a bid, ahead of Phuket losing its bid to host a World Specialised Expo in 2027-8.

The same day that Phuket lost its World Expo bid (June 21), the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) announced that the relevant law had been passed for the government to expropriate the land needed to build the Patong Tunnel. Acquiring the land was expected to take about 24 months, EXAT explained.

However, since then all government agencies involved in the project have fallen silent about any progress on the project.

Former Phuket Governor Narong Woonciew in early July warned that Phuket losing its Expo bid could result in a delay in the much promised transport mega-projects slated for Phuket.

The Patong Tunnel project has been raised with new Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during both his first visit and second visit to Phuket.

Ahead of PM Sretthas second visit to Phuket, Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit revealed that the government is intent on spending B148 billion on developing Phukets tourism and transport infrastructure.
This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)





JERUSALEM, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Israeli tanks and infantry raided the northern Gaza Strip in a predawn attack Thursday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement.

The military said that forces conducted "a targeted raid" using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip. According to the statement, the raid was "part of preparations for the next stages of combat," in which Israel plans a ground offensive in Gaza.

During the raid, soldiers located and struck "numerous" militants, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts and "operated to prepare the battlefield," IDF said.

According to a statement, the soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory.

There were no reports of casualties on the Israeli side, and the soldiers exited the area at the end of the incursion.

At least 6,546 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its war on Hamas on Oct. 7 following Hamas' onslaught on communities in southern Israel earlier that day.

This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)

This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)

This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)

This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)

This screenshot taken from a video released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) shows Israeli forces conducting a raid in the northern Gaza Strip on Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua)
Spaniard charged in murder, dismemberment of Colombian on Koh Phangan

SURAT THANI: Public prosecutors yesterday (Oct 25) brought charges against a Spanish chef to Koh Samui Provincial Court in connection with the murder and dismemberment of a Colombian surgeon on the tourist island of Koh Phangan in August this year.

crimemurderpolice

By Bangkok Post

Thursday 26 October 2023 08:22 AM

Spanish chef Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, 29, being questioned at a police station on Koh Phangan in August 2023. Photo: Supapong Chaolan

According to sources, the prosecutors informed the court that 29-year-old Daniel Bronchalo murdered Edwin Arteaga, 44, and subsequently dismembered the body to conceal the crime on Koh Phangan, which is renowned for full moon parties and scuba diving. The court accepted the lawsuit and summoned the defendant for a statement hearing today, reports the Bangkok Post. The case came to light when the pelvis and intestines of the victim were found at a dump on Koh Phangan on Aug 3. The following day, police detained Mr Bronchalo, who later admitted to the crime. The defendant is the son of Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho Aguirre and actress Silvia Bronchalo. He is a well-known chef in his home country. The victim operated a successful plastic surgery clinic in Monteria, Colombia.
Surviving without internet since May 3Defeats cashless economy

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Till the time of jotting down this commentary late in the day, no word yet had come from the side of the Government on whether the ban on mobile internet would continue or not. The Sangai Express had already commented on how the internet suspension had greatly inconvenienced the media establishments (this was before special arrangements were made for the media houses in Imphal which entailed running through the corridors of power and going from one official to the other, even necessitating a meeting with the Security Advisor to the Government of Manipur) as well as doing something as basic and necessary as sending the monthly mess fees to children studying outside Manipur. Manipur has been without mobile internet service since the evening of May 3, when trouble broke out in all its ugliness at Churachandpur and soon spread to the other districts, save for the Naga dominated districts. After days of internet suspension, broadband service was restored, but how many in Manipur can avail broadband service is a question which no one has given a serious thought to. How many households have broadband connection, whether it is BSNL, Jio or Airtel ? No definite answer as yet and such connection comes with its share of downside as well as it cannot function without electricity and power supply can and do snap anytime in the day and night. For over five months or over 150 days, Manipur has been surviving without internet and this has meant a big blow to businesses, the student community as well as job seekers who need to look up the internet for any opening as well as for filling up forms and applying for any openings. There are reasons why the question of whether mobile internet ban will go or will continue is of interest to The Sangai Express and this interest mainly centres around the grand announcement made by the Chief Minister at Ukhrul on October 18 that the ban would be lifted soon. The reality however tells a contrasting tale for just three days later, that is on October 21, the Government announced yet another extension of the ban on mobile internet. No wonder, the October 21 internet ban announcement came like a bucket of cold water after a hot shower !

Not surprisingly the All Naga Students Association, Manipur has not taken kindly to the latest extension of the mobile internet ban. Already an agitation is on at the Naga dominated district headquarters with the student body warning that more intense form of agitation may follow if the Government remains adamant. This is the situation at the moment, but it should also be noted that the Government has its reasons for restricting publics accessibility to the internet in the presence of numerous key board warriors and heroes as well as to check the spread of fake news. However the grouse of ANSAM sounds genuine. The argument that the Nagas have remained neutral and hence the prolonged internet ban in areas where the Nagas dominate is unjustified sounds logical but then none can dismiss the possibility of anyone from the warring side to sneak in and spread venom. Plus one is talking about Manipur and dividing the place into Meitei-Naga-Kuki areas may not be politically prudent. As stated in the opening sentence of this commentary, it is not yet clear whether the Government would lift or extend the ban, but let no one forget that internet connection was found opened on the sly at Churachandpur some time back. Manipur knows what action has been taken up by the company concerned against their erring staff, but what action has the Government taken up ? This is a question which has not been raised effectively so far and this should worry the Government. Whichever way one looks at it, the fact stands that Manipur has been without mobile internet service for over 150 days now and this can certainly be crippling for anyone and one wonders what has happened to the cashless economy model so enthusiastically pursued by the Prime Minister.

Correction : Please refer to the editorial dated 26th Oct. The third line in the first para should read as Chief Minister N Biren
A woman holds a placard during an anti-sanctions rally in Harare, Zimbabwe, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Tafara Mugwara)

Zimbabweans took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against the sanctions imposed on their country by the United States and other Western nations more than two decades ago.

HARARE, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabweans took to the streets on Wednesday to protest against the sanctions imposed on their country by the United States and other Western nations more than two decades ago.

During a campaign in the capital of Harare marking Anti-Sanctions Day, which falls on Oct. 25, Zimbabwean Vice President Constantino Chiwenga said sanctions have significantly hindered Zimbabwe's economic development.

"The sanctions include financial restrictions and illegal economic measures that alienate Zimbabwe from global supply chains and the global financial system as well as bar capital inflows mainly from the West," he said.

According to Chiwenga, these illegal sanctions have caused the Zimbabwean economy to contract drastically over the two decades since their imposition.

"Since 2001, we estimate that Zimbabwe has lost or missed over 150 billion U.S. dollars through frozen assets, trade embargoes, export and investment restrictions from potential bilateral donor support, development loans, the International Monetary Fund and World Bank balance of payment support, and commercial loans," he said.

The United States has imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe since 2001, as a response to the government's decision to address colonial injustices by redistributing land to indigenous Zimbabweans. These sanctions have severely impacted the country, prompting widespread calls for their removal, both within Zimbabwe and from international voices.

People participate in an anti-sanctions rally in Harare, Zimbabwe, Oct. 25, 2023. (Photo by Shaun Jusa/Xinhua)

The Southern African Development Community, a regional bloc comprising 16 countries, designated Oct. 25 as Anti-Sanctions Day in 2019 to show solidarity with Zimbabwe in its opposition to the sanctions.

During the anti-sanctions march, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Frederick Shava told Xinhua that the sanctions have caused significant hardship for businesses. "These sanctions are a real albatross on our neck. They are affecting every aspect of our economy. They are affecting business in the sense that our business here cannot interact internationally because they are being denied transactions in banks when they do business."

"Our industry and commerce would have been flying by now, but it's being drawn back by these sanctions," he added.

Ruvarashe Hapaguti, a young online content creator, pointed out how sanctions affect the daily lives of ordinary citizens. She said financial restrictions imposed on Zimbabwe limit the participation of young people in the digital world, affecting artists who promote their work on social media platforms.

"As an artist that promotes their stuff on social media platforms, I get less money than I am meant to actually get because of the sanctions that have been imposed on us. Some of the transactions that we partake in daily at the banks and remittances are limited because of these sanctions," Hapaguti said.

Martin Zharare, executive director of the anti-sanctions group Citizens Against Economic Sanctions, said the embargo has been employed as part of a regime change agenda by the West. He urged that sanctions should not be used as a political tool to bring disaster or anarchy to Zimbabwe.

In her report published in September 2022, Alena Douhan, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the negative impact of unilateral coercive measures on the enjoyment of human rights, highlighted the significant impact of sanctions, including secondary sanctions and over-compliance by foreign banks and companies, on both the people and the government of Zimbabwe, saying these sanctions have exacerbated preexisting economic and humanitarian challenges in the country. 
The state government is going to organise the first Durga Puja carnival in Bolpur town to celebrate the Unesco World Heritage site tag awarded to Shantiniketan on 17 September. MLA of Bolpur and state minister of MSME and textiles, Chandranath Singha held high level meetings with the district, civil, police, fire brigade and other officials in this connection.  It has been decided that from Lodge More to Jambuni Road the first Durga Puja Carnival will be held.

Durga Puja of our state has earlier bagged the world cultural heritage status and now Shantiniketan has bagged the World Heritage site tag. So this year it is a a double celebration for us and to honour the Unesco recognition the state has decided to organise a colourful Durga Carnival, said Mr Singha. He further said that on 1901, Rabindranath Tagore has set up the first residential school in Shantiniketan and Visva Bharati started its journey on 1921 and in 2023 the received the UNRESCO regonition.

The theme of this years carnival will be the Unesco World Heritage site tag on Shantiniketan. Meanwhile, the Visva Bharati University (VBU) has received flak from all corners for not inscribing the name of its founder and the first Noble Laureate of Asia, Rabindranath Tagore in the plaque installed at several heritage sites like Rabindra Bhawan, Upasana Griha, Chatimtala, Kala Bhawan, Sangeet Bhawan etc. In the marble stone plate the names of chancellor Narendra Modi and vice chancellor Professor Bidyut Chakraborty are only etched.

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Congress leader Jairam Ramesh was one of the protesters and has already posted in his X handle the photograph of the plaque and has heavily criticised the Narendra Modi government for the missing name of Rabindranath Tagore. Earlier the names of Jawaharlal Nehru was deleted but now Rabindranath Tagorehe posted on his X handle. Supriyo Tagore, a member of the Tagore family and a veteran ashramite said that the present VC is setting a bad precedence and it is in bad taste.

 The names Rabindranath Tagore and Shantiniketan, his abode of peace are synonimous and people from all around the globe visit here throughout the year and it is famous because of Tagore. It looks very odd,he said. The plaque (photo)carries the words Unesco inscribed World Heritage Site with dates and names of the PM who is the chancellor and VC Professor Bidyut Chakraborty. So far VBU has not given any official statement on this ongoing controversy
Kolkata Police have filed a charge sheet against 12 accused in the ragging-related death case of a fresher at the Jadavpur University (JU) in August.

Sections of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act have also been slapped against the accused, considering that the deceased student had undergone mental and sexual harassment before the incident on August 10, according to the charge sheet.

The accused have also been booked under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) related to abatement to suicide and ragging.

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The city police has informed a lower court in Kolkata, where the charge sheet was submitted, that a supplementary charge sheet might be placed by the investigating officials at a later date in case further findings surface during the course of investigation.

In the charge sheet, sources said, the investigating officials have detailed on how the victim student was subjected to humiliation and harassment by the seniors, especially the 12 accused, since the time the deceased had shifted to the universitys students hostel.

Details of how the victim ultimately opted for the drastic step after being unable to bear the mental torture and harassment have also been included in the charge sheet.

The 12 accused are present and former students of the university.

Meanwhile, JU authorities are yet to reach a conclusion with regards to implementing anti-ragging measures as outlined by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and mandated by the Supreme Court.

JU insiders admit that the failure on reaching any conclusion was mainly because of the objections raised by a section of the students unions who objected to certain proposals from the university authorities.
The All India Engineers Federation (AIPEF) has invoked section 11 of the Electricity Act 2003 to oppose the import of coal for 15 thermal stations with 17 GW capacity by the Ministry of Power.

This is the third time the deadline for coal import was extended. The first extension was given to full capacity up to September 30, and then extending the period to October 31, and then again to June 30, 2024, for all the thermal generating stations operational in the state.

AIPEF Chairman Shailendra Dubey on Thursday alleged that this is a clear case of providing business and profits to the companies engaged in coal trading /coal import while loading the cost escalation due to import on the common electricity consumers.

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He said that the Ministry of Coal has strongly contended that there is no shortage of coal, and the coal stock and supply position is vastly improved this year as compared to the previous year. But the data and statistics released by the coal ministry indicate that coal import was not justified, he said.

As per the Coal Ministrys record, the coal stock on October 21, 2023 was 71.35 million tonne as against 60.44 million tonne last year. Besides, coal production in the CIL and Singareni and captive mines was (12.73 per cent higher as compared to last year).

Dubey said that the Ministry of Powers decision to continue coal imports up to June 30, 2024, resulting in a high generation is not justified since the Ministry of Coal has ensured the availability of domestic coal which is far more economical.

The All India Engineers Federation demands that Ministry of Power orders extending the import period up to June 30, 2024, be withdrawn and more economic indigenous coal is utilized instead as there is no shortage or crisis in the availability of indigenous coal.

The AIPEF chairman said if any coal is to be imported henceforth, the Ministry of Power should bear the extra cost of imported coal since the more economic alternative of Indian coal was already available in stock at thermal power stations across the country.
The Congress on Thursday launched a frontal attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre over reported raids conducted by the Enforcement Directorate in Rajasthan, and said it will continue to fight against misuse of central probe agencies by the ruling dispensation.

The grand old party also asserted that the people will give a befitting reply to the BJP in the forthcoming assembly polls.

As soon as elections come, ED, CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation), IT (Income Tax ) etc. become the real panna pramukh of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, BJP made its last move, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote on X, referring to the ED raids in Rajasthan.

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Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Saba, said, After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders in Rajasthan. The dictatorship of (Narendra) Modi is fatal for democracy.

We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP, he said.

Echoing similar sentiment, Congress chairman of media and publicity department, Pawan Khera, in a video statement, said, Earlier, BJP had the support of Modi ji in the election campaign. Now if Modi ji is not working, then bring ED ji. You bring Modi or ED, Rajasthan has never bowed before Delhi and will never bow down.

Taking a swipe at the saffron party, Congress MP Manickam Tagore wrote on X, When you speak about corruption, Modi will send ED. Now its happening in Rajasthan. State Congress president Govind Dotasra under attack by the ED. Condemn the action of Modi on honest leader.

Reportedly, the investigation agency on Thursday conducted searches at 11 locations, including premises of Dotasra, in connection with alleged money laundering charges.

It may be mentioned that last week Rajasthan Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader, Ashok Gehlot had accused the ruling dispensation of misusing the probe agencies to target the leaders of Opposition parties.

He said despite the model code of conduct (MCC) being in force following the announcement of Assembly elections in five states, including Rajasthan, raids are being conducted by the central probe agencies.

Elections to the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held in a single phase on November 25. The counting of votes will take place on December 3 along with Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram.

The forthcoming poll is expected to witness a direct contest between the Congress and BJP in Rajasthan. The ruling Congress has exuded confidence that it will retain the power, while the BJP is hopeful that it will oust the ruling dispensation.
The Congress on Thursday launched a frontal attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre over reported raids by the Enforcement Directorate in Rajasthan, and said it will continue to fight against misuse of central probe agencies by the ruling dispensation.

Hitting back, the BJP accused the Ashok Gehlot-led state government of being neck-deep in corruption.

As soon as elections come, ED, CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation), IT (Income Tax ) etc. become the real panna pramukh of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, BJP made its last move, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote on X, referring to the ED raids in Rajasthan.

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Kharge, who is also the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, said, After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders in Rajasthan. The dictatorship of (Narendra) Modi is fatal for democracy.

We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies. The public will give a befitting reply to the BJP, he said.

Echoing similar sentiment, Congress chairman of media and publicity department, Pawan Khera, in a video statement, said, Earlier, BJP had the support of Modi ji in the election campaign. Now if Modi ji is not working, then bring ED ji. You bring Modi or ED, Rajasthan has never bowed before Delhi and will never bow down.

Taking a swipe at the saffron party, Congress MP Manickam Tagore wrote on X, When you speak about corruption, Modi will send ED. Now its happening in Rajasthan. State Congress president Govind Dotasra under attack by the ED. Condemn the action of Modi on an honest leader.

Reportedly, the investigation agency on Thursday conducted searches at 11 locations, including premises of Dotasra, in connection with alleged money laundering charges in a case related to exam paper leak scam.

Last week, Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot accused the BJP of misusing the probe agencies to target the leaders of opposition parties.

He said despite the model code of conduct (MCC) being in force following the announcement of assembly elections in five states, including Rajasthan, raids are being conducted by the central probe agencies.

Addressing a press conference, Union minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat alleged that the Congress-led Rajasthan government has tried to cover up many scams in the state.

In Rajasthan, a series of paper leaks have happened. There were paper leaks 19 times and the youths future is in darkness. The people, aspirants and their family members have lost faith in the system of recruitment through competitive examinations by the government, he said.

From the first paper leak to the 19th one, the government has continued to cover it up. At the time of the initial paper leak, Ashok Gehlot had responded that such incidents were normal and that it happened in other states also. Later he said that he would get it investigated, he added.

Shekhawat claimed that the chief minister gave clean chit to every officer, employee and politician involved in the matter.

Elections to the 200-member Rajasthan Assembly will be held in a single phase on November 25. Counting of votes will take place on December 3 along with Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and Mizoram.

The forthcoming poll is expected to witness a direct contest between the Congress and BJP in Rajasthan. The ruling Congress has exuded confidence that it will retain the power, while the BJP is hopeful that it will oust the ruling dispensation.
In a veiled criticism of Chinas ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday said such initiatives should not ignore core concerns on sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.

To improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. Such initiatives should respect sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries. The global South should not be saddled with unviable debt arising from opaque initiatives. The India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) could become prosperity enablers, he said addressing the SCO Heads of Government meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

India has been opposing Chinas BRI as its key project  China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)  passes through the Indian territory of Jammu and Kashmir under the illegal occupation of Pakistan. India also believes that the BRI has brought many countries in Asia and Africa under Chinas debt trap.

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Jaishankar emphasised the significance of the centrality of interests of Central Asian countries in overcoming the global challenges and called for closer cooperation among Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states.

Today when the world is facing challenges, looming economic recession, broken supply chains, food and energy insecurity, this calls for closer cooperation with the SCO, in this context, the centrality of the interests of Central Asian states plays a key role, he said.

India is keen to partner with the member states for sustainable, mutually beneficial and financially viable solutions. As we strive to improve trade within the region, we need robust connectivity and infrastructure. India has accorded utmost priority to these domains in its own developmental journey, at the same time connectivity initiatives should always respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, he underlined.

The foreign minister noted that India shares deep civilizational ties with the people of this region. The continuous movement of goods, ideas and people traversing the region has left indelible imprints on customs, traditions, language and cuisine in the region. These historical relationships should now create a template for greater economic cooperation.

Jaishankar arrived in Bishkek on Wednesday for the 22nd SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting. He also called on President Sadyr Zhaparov of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Delighted to call on President Sadyr Zhaparov of Kyrgyz Republic.Conveyed the personal greetings of PM @narendramodi. Discussed cooperation in banking, energy, health and pharma, defense, agriculture and investments. Conveyed Indias support for the successful Kyrgyz Presidency of SCO Council of Heads of Government, he said in a post.

Jaishankar also met his counterpart from Kyrgyzstan Zheenbek Kulubaev and discussed a range of issues.
Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Gao Jie)

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda in Beijing on Wednesday.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of the signing of the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, Han said, adding that peaceful coexistence and everlasting friendship between China and Japan conform to the fundamental interests of the two countries and two peoples, and are also of great significance to Asia and the world.

He said China and Japan enjoy deep-rooted people-to-people friendship and deeply integrated interests, calling on the two sides to further strengthen communication and exchanges, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and realize mutual learning and mutual benefit.

The Chinese side appreciates the unremitting efforts and important contributions made by Fukuda and friendly people from the Japanese cultural community to promote people-to-people exchanges between China and Japan, Han said. He urged joint efforts by the two sides to strengthen cooperation and play a bigger role in improving and developing bilateral relations and enhancing friendly feelings between their peoples.

Fukuda said Japan and China enjoy a long history of friendly exchanges and closely linked interests, and expressed his willingness to continue to promote cooperation with China in various fields. 

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng meets with former Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. (Xinhua/Gao Jie)
The Election Commission has asked the Narendra Modi-led central government no to hold its proposed nation-wide Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra to highlight its achievements in five poll-bound states  Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, and Mizoram. The commission also directed the government not to appoint officials as district rath prabharis in poll bound states.

In a letter to Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, the EC highlighted that it has announced elections in five states and directed the government not to hold the yatra in constituencies where Model Code of Conduct is in force up till 5th December, 2023.

Besides the five poll bound states, Model Code of Conduct is in place in Nagalands Tapi constituency, where a by-election is scheduled later this year.

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It has been brought to the notice of the Commission that a letter has been circulated to the ministries for the nomination of senior officers as District Rath Praharis as special officers for the proposed Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra starting from 20th November, 2023, the Commission said.

Commission has directed that the aforesaid activities should not be taken in the constituencies where Model Code of Conduct is in force up till 5th December, 2023, it added.

Earlier, the Centre had announced the Viksit Bharat Sankalp yatra, a mega nation-wide outreach program. The yatra is scheduled to be launched on November 15 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Birsa Munda Jayanti.

The government asked ministries to appoint senior officials as district rath prabharis, a move objected by the Opposition Congress.

Calling the move a gross misuse of government machinery, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge registered a complaint with the Election Commission seeking a ban on the yatra. Kharge also wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the same.

It is a clear violation of the Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964, which directs that no government servant shall take part in any political activity, the Congress chief wrote.

The fact that only achievements of the last 9 years are being considered, gives away the fact that this is a transparently political order in the run-up to the five-state elections and the general elections of 2024, Kharge wrote in a letter.

The government, however, had already clarified that it has no plans to start the yatra in five poll-bound states where Model Code of Conduct is in place.
Immediately after Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at Rajasthan PCC President Govind Singh Dotasara residence here and a short notice summon to Vaibhav Gehlot, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot alleged that the Central government was misusing the investigation agency like a Tiddi Dal Akraman (locust swarm attack) before the assembly polls.

These agencies (the CBI, the ED, and the IT) have unleashed terror in the entire country, Gehlot told a joint press conference at the PCC office.

In the morning on Thursday, ED teams raided Dotasaras official residence and other place in the state capital and his family home and relatives in Sikar in the alleged paper leak cases, while another Congress candidate Om Prakash Hudlas places in the Dausa district.

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Along with this, the ED summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlots son Vaibhav for questioning in a Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) case.

Gelot said, What will be left if the countrys premium agencies like the CBI, the ED, and the Income Tax do not have credibility? These agencies had credibility once. Today, the opposite is true. Its a worrying situation. The question is not about raids at the locations of my son and the PCC Chief

He said at stake is the credibility of the probe agencies. These agencies have created terror in the entire country. In Chhattisgarh, ED officials have taken houses on rent for the last 6-7 months. Have settled there because action has to be taken every day, Gehlot, who was accompanied by Sukhvinder Singh Randhawa, and a few cabinet ministers, added.

Recalling Jodhpurs Sanjivani Credit Cooperative Society Scam in which Union Minister G S Shekhawats name figured in the SOG case, Gehlot said, Why no action being taken against Gajendra Shekhawat? There was a complaint against Shekhawat for investment in Ethiopia. The SOG is repeatedly requesting the ED to take action, but no action has been taken. ED cannot come without pressure from above. How many times has the SOG requested the ED in the Sanjeevani case, but the investigation has not been done till now. Gajendra Shekhawat has properties in many countries including Ethiopia. We requested ED, but no one cared.

On the summons issued to his son, the CM said, I have been hearing for about five-ten years that a complaint has been made against him. Yesterday, the ED summons came. We are not afraid of these people.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Congress workers and leaders held protests against the ED raids in Jaipur and Sikar. Later in the day, Dotasara came out of his Sikar home and told his supporters there was no worry, as the ED was doing its work peacefully and not harassing him in any way.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the seventh edition of the Indian Mobile Congress, 2023 at Bharat Mandapam here on Friday and distribute 100 5G use case labs to educational institutions across the country.

These case labs have been developed as part of the 100 5G labs initiative which seeks to encourage development of 5G applications meeting Indias unique needs as well as global demands, a press release said on Thursday.

The initiative will foster innovation across socio-economic sectors like education, agriculture, health, power and transportation, and propel the country into the forefront of the usage of 5G technology.

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It is also a pivotal step for building a 6G-ready academic and start-up ecosystem in the country. More importantly, the initiative is a step towards development of indigenous telecom technology which is critical for national security, it said.

The Indian Mobile Congress (IMC) is the largest telecom, media, and technology forum in Asia and will deliberate from October 27 to 29. Over one lakh participants from 22 countries, including about 5,000 CEO-level delegates, 230 exhibitors, 400 start-ups, and other stakeholders, are expected to attend the event.

The event will also act as a platform to highlight Indias incredible advancements in telecommunications and technology, bring forth significant announcements and provide an opportunity to start-ups to display their innovative products and solutions.

With its theme Global Digital Innovation, IMC 2023 will aim to strengthen Indias position as a developer, manufacturer, and exporter of key cutting-edge technologies, the release said.

The three-day congress will highlight technologies such as 5G, 6G and artificial intelligence (AI), and discuss issues pertaining to semiconductor industry, green technology, cyber-security, among others.

This year, IMC is introducing a start-up programme Aspire. It will foster connections between start-ups, investors, and established businesses with an aim to catalyse fresh entrepreneurial initiatives and collaborations, it added.
The 16th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference & Exhibition 2023 will be inaugurated by Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Friday.

The three-day event is being organised by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs through the Institute of Urban Transport (India) and with the support of Delhi Metro Rail Corporation Ltd from October 27-29 in the national capital.

The Conference will be inaugurated by the Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister in the presence of other dignitaries and delegates.

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Rapid climate change and its impact on the city transport system calls for an integrated and resilient transport system to meet the mobility needs of the public. The innovations have led to a wide range of transport options to emerge, thereby widening the choice available to commuters. The need of the hour is to strengthen the resilience of transport systems right from the planning stage.

Till date, 15 events have been organized and State, UT governments, city authorities, international participants and other stakeholders have gained substantially through participation in these conferences.

A Curtain Raiser press conference about the event was held here and was addressed by Jaideep, Officer on Special Duty (UT) & Ex. Officio Joint Secretary, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs and Anuj Dayal, Principal Executive Director, Corporate Communication, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation

Briefing mediapersons about the 16th Urban Mobility India (UMI) Conference & Exhibition 2023, Jaideep said this year, the Conference, which will be held at the Manekshaw Centre, Parade Road, Delhi Cantt, will focus on the theme of Integrated and Resilient Urban Transport.

He said the Conference will emphasize on designing and implementation of efficient, high quality, integrated and resilient Urban Transport systems in the cities.

Jaideep said the primary objective of the Conference is to disseminate information to the cities, to help them keep up-to-date with latest and best urban transport practices globally.

The conference provides an opportunity to interact with other professionals, technology and service providers, both domestic and international, so that the delegates get an up-to-date trend to develop their urban transport along a sustainable path. The event brings together national and international experts, technology and service providers, policy makers, practitioners and officials from the urban transport sector under one roof, he added.

Senior officers from Central and state governments, policy makers, Managing Directors of Metro Rail Companies, Chief Executives of transport undertakings, International experts, professionals, academicians and students will also participate in the three-day event.

The initiatives, such as strengthening of mass transit systems, adoption of new technology, indigenization and standardization of various Metro Rail components, accessible, safe and well-connected NMT facilities, have been rolled out by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India to ensure the mobility needs for all and create healthy and livable cities.

The National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP), 2006 of the Government of India, inter-alia, lays strong emphasis on building capabilities at the state and city level to address the new challenges associated with urban transport and lays down the guidelines for developing equitable and sustainable urban transport systems for all sections of the society.

As part of the NUTP enunciations, the Ministry took the initiative to organize this annual international Conference-cum-Exhibition on Urban Mobility India popularly known as UMI.
Former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot on Thursday slammed the BJP-led NDA government at the Centre over the Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids at the residence of Rajasthan Congress chief Govind Singh Dotasra and the probe agencys summon to Chief Minister Ashok Gehlots son Vaibhav Gehlot.

Addressing a press conference, Pilot said that the Government of India has sensed its defeat in the upcoming Rajasthan elections and therefore they are misusing the central agencies to create fear among Congress leaders.

Seeing its defeat in the Rajasthan elections, Government of India has understood this and specifically targeted Congress leaders Raids were conducted without any evidence and factsThese kinds of raids have been conducted to give a message that if we (BJP) become politically weak, then they will misuse the agencies of the Government of India, whether it is CBI, ED, or Income Tax and we will try to create a kind of fear, Pilot said.

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The Congress leader said that it has become a habit of the BJP to use government agencies as a weapon and tool to target, harass and intimidate Opposition leaders.

When they feel that they cant win elections through mandate of the people of the state, then they engage these agencies he added.

Pilot further asserted that the Congress party is doing exceedingly well in the upcoming Assembly elections in five states, including Rajasthan and that these intimidating tactics will not work.

In all 5 states, Congress is doing exceedingly well, and all these intimidating tactics will not work. I keep saying we must take inspiration from Rahul Gandhi, who has faced all these challenges, he added.

Earlier in the day, conducted searches at 11 locations, including premises of Dotasra, in connection with the alleged money laundering charges in a case related to exam paper leak scam. The probe agency also sent a summon to Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlots son Vaibhav Gehlot.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday that the highest priority of his government is welfare of the poor and as the countrys economy is growing, so is the governments budget on schemes for the poor and development projects.

Mentioning large amounts being spent by his Government on various schemes, after launching a series of projects in Shirdi, Maharashtra, he said before 2014 too, people heard about big financial figures, but they were about corruption and scams running into lakhs of crores of Rupees.

Today, people hear about the lakhs of crores of Rupees being spent on different programmes, he said.

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Addressing a large gathering, Modi said India will see true social justice when it is free of poverty and the poorest of the poor families get ample opportunities to make progress. He said his Government runs on the mantra of Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas.

The prime minister said 1.10 crore Ayushman cards are being distributed on Thursday to eligible beneficiaries in Maharashtra and they will receive health insurance of up to Rs 5 lakh. The Government is spending Rs 70,000 crores on this scheme.

On the scheme for free ration to the poor, he said, the Government has already spent Rs 4 lakh crore and a similar amount has been provided for construction of pucca houses for the poor. The Prime Minister said this expenditure is six times more than what it was in the decade before 2014.

To provide tap water supply to every home of the poor, the Prime Minister said the government has spent more than Rs 2 lakh crore. Under PM Svanidhi Scheme, he said that street vendors are getting assistance up to thousands of rupees.

Modi said the Government has started a new scheme PM Vishwakarma Scheme which aids lakhs of families of carpenters, goldsmiths, potters and sculptors for the first time, and a government expenditure of more than Rs 13,000 crores has been provided.

Talking about small farmers, he said the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi had provided Rs 2.60 lakh crore to them and the amount included Rs 26000 crore for the small farmers of Maharashtra.

He said he was happy that the Maharashtra Government has started Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana under which Maharashtra Shetkari families will get an extra Rs 6000, meaning local small farmers will get Rs 12,000 of Samman Nidhi, he said.

The prime minister inaugurated, dedicated to the nation and laid foundation stones of multiple development projects worth about Rs 7500 crores in sectors like health, rail, road, oil and gas in Shirdi, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra.

The multiple development projects include Ayush Hospital at Ahmednagar Civil Hospital; electrification of Kurduwadi-Latur Road railway section (186 Km); 3rd & 4th railway lines connecting Jalgaon to Bhusaval (24.46 km); four-laning of Sangli to Borgaon section of NH-166 (Package-I); and additional facilities at Manmad Terminal of Indian Oil Corporation Limited.

Among other projects, he inaugurated the new Darshan Queue complex at Shirdi, dedicated to the nation the left bank (85km) canal network of the Nilwande Dam, and launched the Namo Shetkari Mahasanman Nidhi Yojana benefiting more than 86 lakh farmer-beneficiaries.

The prime minister began his Maharashtra visit by performing pooja and darshan at Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple, Shirdi and then did Jal Pujan of Nilwande Dam.

Work of Nilwande Dam, pending for five decades, had finally started today, he said. He expressed gratitude for getting the opportunity to perform Jal Pujan at the site.

He said the Darshan Queue Complex at Shri Saibaba Samadhi Temple will provide convenience to pilgrims from India and abroad. He said he had laid its foundation stone in October 2018.

The prime minister mentioned the sad demise of Baba Maharaj Satarkar of the Warkari community on Thursday morning. He paid tribute to the Baba Maharaj and recalled his work of social awareness by Kirtan and Pravachan and said it will keep inspiring generations to come.

Governor of Maharashtra Ramesh Bais, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were present on the occasion.
In a rare prime-time address to Americans last Thursday, President Joe Biden tackled the challenging task of navigating the complex world of international politics and diplomacy. His speech focused on the critical need to support both Israel and Ukraine in their respective conflicts. However, the underlying message extended far beyond mere financial aid. It encapsulated the intricacies of global relations and the challenging balancing act of maintaining alliances while promoting peace and diplomacy. Mr Bidens visit to Israel last week highlighted the profound shockwaves that the country experienced when it was attacked by Hamas militants on October 7.

Drawing parallels with Americas own experience of the 9/11 attacks, the Presidents message resonated with a poignant reminder that emotions can often cloud judgement. His reference to the prolonged US military presence in Afghanistan and Iraq was a not-sosubtle caution to Israel, encouraging them not to be blinded by rage. In essence, what President Biden conveyed is that even in times of justifiable anger and desperation, it is essential to weigh the long-term consequences of ones actions.

Mistakes made in the heat of the moment can have far-reaching effects, and while justice may be sought and eventually achieved, the aftermath can be equally devastating. What adds another layer of complexity to these international dynamics is the Presidents endeavour to connect the distant conflicts of Israel and Ukraine.

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By highlighting that both Hamas and Russian President Vladimir Putin aim to destroy neighbouring democracies, he underscored that the outcomes in these conflicts could have global repercussions. If terrorists and dictators are not held accountable for their aggression, the cycle of chaos and destruction continues to escalate. The global stage is fraught with complexities, where even the best-intentioned actions can lead to unforeseen consequences.

President Bidens goal to secure significant aid packages for Israel and Ukraine may seem straightforward, but the intricate dance of international relations and domestic political realities often comes into play. The imperative is to convince the US Congress to approve these emergency funding packages, where the need for balance between support for allies and financial responsibility is critical. However, as his recent poll numbers show, the President is not without his share of criticism.

A mere 31 per cent Americans approve of his foreign policy handling. This discrepancy between public opinion and executive action reveals the difficulties inherent in conveying the nuances of foreign policy to Americans who might be growing weary of foreign entanglements. The challenge is not only in conveying the importance of supporting allies in times of crisis but also in recognising the growing divide within the United States regarding these issues.

The poll that found a decrease in support for providing weapons to Ukraine highlights this divide. It is the responsibility of the President to balance these internal tensions with international obligations
In a joint counter infiltration operation, the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir police on Thursday gunned down 5 dreaded Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists along the Line of Control in Kupwara districts Machil sector.

Initially, the joint team of Army and Police killed two terrorists and three more were gunned down following a brief encounter. The terrorists were coming from the the Pakistani side of the LoC but alert security personnel noticed their movement and neutralized them in the ensuing gun battle.

The encounter is still underway as security forces suspect more terrorists could be hiding in the area. A search joint search operation has also been launched in the area.

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The encounter comes a day after top Army and Jammu and Kashmir officials held a meeting at the the headquarters of the 15 Corps in Srinagar to discuss the security situation in the Union Territory.

During the meeting, the officials raised concerns that more foreign terrorists are entering the valley. A the same time, they noted, the number of local recruits have gone down significantly.

According to official figures, as many as 46 terrorists have been killed by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir this year. Of the 46, 37 terrorists were of foreign nationality  almost all from Pakistan, while only 9 were locals.

As per the home ministry data, there are around 130 terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir and half of them are Pakistani. India has long been raising the issue of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Kashmir on several forums.

The Pakistani Army and the neighbouring countrys intelligence agency ISI provide training and shelter to terrorists and help them infiltrate into the Indian side.

According to the Jammu and Kashmir police, at least 16 terror launching pads are active across the LoC waiting to cross over. The Pakistani Army, on most occasions, provide them cover fire during their infiltration bid.
India on Thursday expressed shock over a court in Qatar awarding death sentence to eight former officials of the Indian Navy and said it was exploring all legal options and would take up the verdict with the authorities concerned.

We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgment in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company. We are deeply shocked by the verdict of death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgment. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a press release.

The government said India attaches high importance to the case, and has been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities, it said.

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Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture, the release said.

The military veterans had been working for a private firm when they were detained by the Qatari intelligence service on unspecified charges in August last year.

According to earlier reports, the group had been accused of spying on a submarine programme on behalf of Israel. The Qatari authorities have also indicated that they possess electronic evidence pertaining to the matter.
United States President Joe Biden has suggested that one of the reasons behind the brutal October 7 Hamas attack on Israel could be the recent announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor that integrates the entire region, including Israel, with a network of rail, road and ports. Biden made these remarks during a joint press conference with Australian PM Anthony Albanese on Wednesday.

Im convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did, and I have no proof of this, just my instinct tells me, is because of the progress we were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall. We cant leave that work behind, Biden said.

Earlier this month, the Gaza-based Palestinian militant outfit Hamas launched a brutal attack on Israel, killing more than 1,400 people, including children, women and foreign nationals. In response, Israel declared a war against Hamas and vowed to destroy the militant and governance capabilities of the Palestinian organization.

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The US president had earlier claimed that the Hamas attack was launched to derail the breakthrough the US has achieved in normalization of Saudi Arabia and Israel ties.

Also Read | Israel briefly sends tanks, troops into Gaza to prepare battlefield | 10 points

During the G20 Summit in New Delhi early September, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the mega India-Middle East-Europe shipping and railway connectivity corridor. An MoU was signed by India, USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, Italy and the European Union to establish the corridor hailed as real big deal by the US President.

The shipping and railway connectivity corridor between India and Europe vie Middle East will allow movement of goods from India to UAEs Fujairah Port and then to the Port of Haifa in Israel vie Saudi Arabia and Jordan. A railway line is already functioning between Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

As part of the corridor, remaining portion will be build to connect Jordan to Israels Haifa Port. From Haifa Port, goods from India and other Asian countries will be shipped to Europe. Italy, Germany and France have also been actively involved in the project.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Export-Import Bank of China (China EximBank) has issued around 270 billion yuan (about 37.61 billion U.S. dollars) of loans during the first three quarters of the year to meet the import financing needs of enterprises, the bank said Thursday.

By the end of September, the import credit balance of the China EximBank had exceeded 770 billion yuan.

The bank said it will provide special financial services for customers of the upcoming sixth China International Import Expo, which is scheduled to take place in Shanghai from Nov. 5 to 10.

The China Eximbank is a state-funded and state-owned policy bank supporting China's foreign trade, investment, and international economic cooperation. 
Hours after Israel Defence Forces sent tanks and troops into Gaza to prepare battlefield, a spokesman from Hamass military wing on Thursday claimed that approximately 50 hostages held by its militants in Gaza have been killed in Israeli air strikes since October 7 when they first began.

Abu Obeida, the spokesperson of Hamass military wing, however, didnt provide any further details. The statement from Hamas comes days after it released four hostages  an American mother and her daughter on October 21 and two Israeli women on October 23.

Israels military has so far confirmed 224 hostages being held by Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.

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More than 1,400 people, including children, women and foreign nationals were killed in the brutal October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants. The militants also kidnapped more than 220 people after the attack. The hostages are believed to be held held in underground tunnels Hamas has built over the years to protect its militants from Israeli strikes.

The Israeli military had earlier rubbished a similar claim when Hamas said 11 hostages were killed in Israeli air strikes. The IDF has back then termed Hamas claims a fake propaganda and said that it has its own information on hostages.

Earlier today, the Israel Defense Forces had said that it carried out a targeted raid overnight in northern Gaza using tanks and infantry troops. While this was not its full-scale ground invasion, but the IDF said the raid was preparation for the next stages of the war.

Meanwhile, the Hamas-run health ministry has said that 7,000 people have been killed since Israeli air strikes on Gaza began.
The police in United States have launched a massive manhunt for a man suspected of killing at least 22people in shootings at a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine. The police have ordered residents of several towns in southern Maine to remain under shelter-in-place as they look for armed and dangerous Lewiston gunman.

According to local media reports, Mike Sauschuck, who oversees public safety for the state, said that the police have spotted a vehicle of interest in Lisbon and asked residents to shelter in place.

Sauschuck further said that police identified Robert Card, 40, as a person of interest in the shooting, adding he should be considered armed and dangerous.

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Police are currently searching for a Robert R Card. He is considered armed and dangerous. A vehicle involved in this incident was located in Lisbon (a town in Maine, United States.)We are also checking with the residents in Lisbon, he said.

He added, We have literally 100s of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case, to locate Robert Card, who again is a person of interest and a person of interest only, and well continue to gather information so that we can bring the suspect to justice and ultimately seek prosecution down the road.

The Lewiston, Maine Police Department has released a picture of the suspect involved in the mass shooting that has left nearly 22 dead and over 50 injured.

According to the Police, Law Enforcement is attempting to locate Robert Card 4/4/1983, as a person of interest regarding the mass shooting at Schemengees Bar and Sparetime Recreation this evening. The suspect, Card should be considered armed and dangerous. Please contact law enforcement if you are aware of his whereabouts.
Saint-Laurent, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Becoming partly cloudy after some morning light rain. High near 50F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 90%..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 36F. Winds light and variable.
The United Auto Workers union says it has reached a tentative contract agreement with Ford that could be a breakthrough to end the nearly 6-week-old strikes against Detroit automakers
BRATISLAVA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Slovakia's newly elected Prime Minister Robert Fico said here on Thursday that his government will stop delivering weapons to Ukraine, and will only provide humanitarian aid from now on.

Fico also expressed opposition to sanctions against Russia "unless we see analyses of their impact on Slovakia."

"If there are to be such sanctions that will harm us, like most sanctions have, I can see no reason to support them," he said.

On his first day in office, Fico met with members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Council of Slovakia before leaving for Brussels to attend an EU summit on Thursday and Friday.

Slovakia will support Ukraine and provide it with all-round assistance, the Foreign Affairs Committee said, adding that Fico was to present this stance at the EU summit, local media reported.

Fico said that he does not consider all-round assistance to include the supply of weapons. 
Boston's Faneuil Hall was named after a slave owner. City council calls for renaming the site

The Boston City Council has passed a resolution that calls for renaming Faneuil Hall, a popular tourist site that is named after a wealthy merchant who owned and traded slaves
GUANGZHOU, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- As home to China's prominent tech giants, including Huawei, Tencent, and electric car brand BYD, south China's economic powerhouse province of Guangdong finds its development momentum driven by new industrial sectors is becoming an anchor for economic growth.

Bearing witness to a more noticeable overall economic recovery trend in the third quarter of 2023, the province is upbeat about its reinvigorating economy and brighter future.

According to CleanTechnica, a cleantech-focused website in the United States, the top three companies globally in terms of sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) for the first eight months of this year include two from Guangdong.

In this ranking, China's NEV giant BYD, based in the tech hub of Shenzhen, claims the top spot, while Guangzhou's GAC Aion New Energy Automobile Co., Ltd. secures the third position.

"This indicates that the emerging industry of new energy vehicles in Guangdong is becoming more competitive," said Xiao Yong, deputy general manager of GAC Aion.

Maintaining innovation and continuous breakthroughs in critical areas are crucial factors behind the remarkable competitiveness of China's new energy vehicle industry.

As per GAC Aion, on Oct. 9, the company delivered its first pure electric supercar, the Hyper SSR, marking the world's first mass-produced pure electric supercar. This model's production line is also China's first supercar production line in operation.

Automobiles have a significant amplification effect throughout the industry value chain, with each car contributing to a value of about eight to ten times its selling price, the senior executive explained.

"The supercar's current price ranges from 1.28 to 1.68 million yuan (about 178,312 to 234,035 U.S. dollars). This means each sale of the electric supercar will generate over 10 million yuan to the industry value chain, significantly driving economic growth," said Xiao.

The new energy vehicle is not the only emerging industrial sector flourishing in Guangdong.

According to data from the provincial statistics bureau, high-end manufacturing sectors, including integrated circuits, optoelectronic devices, and solar cell products, have demonstrated significant growth in the first three quarters of this year. All three sectors have achieved double-digit growth during this period.

"The emerging new industries continuously inject a steady stream of development momentum into Guangdong's economic growth," said Wang Liying, the deputy director of the bureau.

What's even more promising is that the foundation of Guangdong's manufacturing sectors is getting increasingly robust, thanks to the integration with cutting-edge technologies.

On Sept. 28, Hsu Fu Chi International Group, a leading snack and confectionery producer, celebrated the grand opening of a gummy candy workshop project with a 120-million-yuan investment in Dongguan City, Guangdong Province.

Liu Xinggang, CEO of the company, said that the candy maker has invested 180 million yuan in recent years to upgrade production lines for intelligent capabilities, aimed at boosting production capacity. "We are expanding our investment because we have the demand and the confidence to do so. In the first three quarters of this year, our candy sales saw a remarkable 30-percent year-on-year increase, with gummy candy sales up 79 percent."

During the initial three quarters of the year, Guangdong witnessed a 23.9 percent year-on-year increase in fixed asset investment in industrial sectors. Specifically, manufacturing investment surged by 20 percent.

The province has been swift in nurturing new growth drivers, with high-tech manufacturing investment posting a robust 21.4 percent growth, while advanced manufacturing investment grew by 18.8 percent. 
Job Title: Movement Control Assistant (High School Diploma Jobs)

Organisation: United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA)

Duty Station: Entebbe, Uganda

Job Opening Number: 23-Transportation-UNISFA-220790-J-Entebbe (M)

About US:

The Security Council, by its resolution 1990 PDF Document of 27 June 2011, responded to the urgent situation in Sudans Abyei region by establishing the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). The Security Council was deeply concerned by the violence, escalating tensions and population displacement. The operation will monitor the flashpoint border between north and south, and is authorized to use force in protecting civilians and humanitarian workers in Abyei. UNISFAs establishment came after the Government of Sudan and the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement (SPLM) reached an agreement in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to demilitarize Abyei and let Ethiopian troops to monitor the area.

Key Duties and Responsibilities: Within delegated authority, the Movement Control Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:

Receives and registers cargo movement requests for air/ground transportation.

Receives supplies from different sections, arranges for transportation and follows up from delivery to destination.

Coordinates transportation of cargo by air and/or road with Air Operations and Transport Section respectively.

Ensures proper and safe storage of inbound and outbound cargo.

Ensures proper packing and marking of cargo items, including dangerous goods.

Informs appropriate consignees on delivery of items.

Provides technical advice and guidance to personnel involved in cargo movements.

Compiles and maintains cargo statistics related to air/ground movements.

Coordinates work of outsources loaders at the airport.

Prepares cargo manifest and ensures its distribution to all concerned parties.

Facilitates embarking/disembarking of passengers at the airport, and loading/unloading of cargo.

Ensures that loading of the aircraft is conducted in accordance to the published daily schedule and cargo manifest.

Checks in passengers against passenger manifest, issues boarding passes and organizes passengers transfer for aircraft boarding.

Performs pre-boarding briefing for passengers and monitors the safety briefing performed by the aircrew.

Facilitates immigration and customs formalities for passengers.

Ensures that passengers baggage is weighted, measures, labeled, manifested and loaded into the aircraft.

Ensures the General Release From Liability form (waiver) for non-UN passengers is in place and retained before boarding.

Reports time of take-off and landing of UN aircraft to Air Operations Center.

Receives the Aviation Risk management check list from aircrews and informs Air Operations center of safety concerns if any.

Ensures established procedures are in place and aviation safety regulations are followed.

Provides assistance to VIP passengers, if required.

Carries out duties in Passenger Booking Cee, if required.

Performs the flight monitor duties or other duties as and when required.









Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

The applicant for the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei Movement Control Assistant must hold a High school diploma or equivalent. Required.

A technical/vocational Certificate/qualifications in logistics, aviation transportation or management is required

A valid national driving license is required.

Computer literacy in word processing, spreadsheets and databases is required.

At least five years of progressively responsible experience in aviation, movement control related services or general experience in the field of transport is required.

Languages: fluency in Arabic and English is required;

Competencies

Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. Planning and Organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies; identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work; foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning; monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary; uses time efficiently.

No Fee: The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing, or training). The United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants bank accounts.

How to Apply:

All suitably qualified and interested candidates should apply online at the link below.

Click Here

Deadline: 31st 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
Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy urged youngsters in the country to work 70 hours a week to ensure the progress of India.

During a freewheeling conversation with former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai for the first episode of 3one4 Capitals podcast The Record, Murthy observed that youth in India has the habit of taking "not so desirable" habits from the West and then not helping the country.

"India's work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve our work productivity, unless we reduce corruption in the government...unless we reduce the delays in bureaucracy in taking the decisions, we will not be able to compete with those countries that have made tremendous progress," he pointed out.

My request is that our youngsters must say, 'this is my country, I want to work 70 hours a week', he said, adding, This is exactly what the Germans and the Japanese did after the Second World War. The German leader sat down with corporate leaders and said 'we have to rebuild, that is your job'. And they made sure every German worked extra hours for a certain number of weeks.

He expressed hope that corporate leaders in India too would be able to address the youngsters and ask them to work extra hard, be disciplined, and improve work productivity. Unless we do that, what can the government do, Murthy said and observed that every government is as good as the culture of the people.

Our culture has to be changed to that of highly determined, extremely disciplined, and extremely hardworking people. And that transformation has to come to youngsters because youngsters are the ones who can build our country.
Popular content creator and Bigg Boss OTT 2 winner Elvish Yadav has reportedly lodged a complaint with the police after receiving extortion calls. The Gurugram police registered an FIR on Wednesday after an unknown caller demanded Rs 1 crore from the social media influencer.



Several media outlets also reported on Thursday that the Gurugram police teamed up with the Gujarat police to arrest one person from Vadnagar.

Elvish, who made his TV debut with Bigg Boss OTT season 2, has a massive fan following on social media. His YouTube channel The Social Factory has over 14 million subscribers at the moment. With 15.7 million followers, Elvish has a very strong presence of on Instagram too. He stole the limelight with his performance in the Salman Khan-hosted Bigg Boss OTT 2. He scripted history by becoming the first wildcard entrant to win the show, taking home Rs 25 lakh.

He is also the owner of clothing brands like systumm_clothing.
Swiss watchmaker brand Rado has roped in actor Katrina Kaif to be its global brand ambassador. Katrinas versatile talent and international appeal make her the perfect choice to represent the values that Rado holds, the brand said.



Kaif, whose Tiger 3 is set to release in November, is already the brand ambassador of global brands like Uniqlo and Etihad Airways. We are thrilled to welcome Katrina Kaif into the Rado family. Her timeless beauty and global recognition align seamlessly with Rados core principles. We look forward to this journey of redefining luxury together, Adrian Bosshard, Rado CEO said.

Rado watches have always fascinated me with their innovative designs and commitment to quality, Kaif said. In the video announcing Kaif's association with the brand, she is seen wearing the sophisticated Centrix watch.

Currently, the other Indian, who is a brand ambassador for the watch brand is Hrithik Roshan.


The Old Farmer's Almanacan annual American journal that contains weather predictions, planting schedules, astronomical tables, recipes, anecdotes, and morehas different names for 12 full moons. January's full moon is called Wolf Moon, February has Snow Moon, March has Worm Moon, April has Pink Moon and May, Flower Moon. Also known as Planting Moon, and Milk Moon, May's moon gets this sobriquet on account of the wildflowers that bloom in the month. In the pitilessly indifferent nature, the wildflowers that sprout in April and bloom in May are forced out by taller plants stealing their water and light.

"In May, when coyotes howl beneath an unnervingly large moon, taller plants, such as spiderworts and black-eyed Susans, begin to creep over the tinier blooms, stealing their light and water. The necks of the smaller flowers break and their petals flutter away, and before long, they are buried underground. This is why Osage Indians refer to May as the time of flower-killing moon," writes David Grann, in Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI. The book has now been turned into a major motion picture, helmed by arguably one of the greatest directors of all time, Martin Scorsese.

There is no better allegory to describe the evil that befell the people of the Native American tribe, Osage Nation, in Northeast Oklahoma, in the 1920s, than the fate of the tiny plants that bloom and die in May.

The curse of black gold

Resource cursealso known as the paradox of plenty and poverty paradoxis a political-economic theory that argues that mineral and fuel abundance does not always lead to the development of a nation, or people who possess the said resources. The theory suggests that such abundance may cause state intervention and large degrees of rent-seeking and corruption. "...extraction projects often attract large influxes of people, whether or not additional employment is actually available. This can cause stress on economic, social and cultural relations," a paper titled The Resource Curse: The Political and Economic Challenges of Natural Resource Wealth observes.

While this theory, proposed in the context of less developed countries and the oil boom, may not apply to the Roaring Twenties of the United Statesan era that was marked by widespread prosperityit would not be all wrong to take recourse to it to understand what happened to Osage, who were once the world's wealthiest people per capita.

Known as the Children of the Middle Waters, the Osage were always land-rich. However, in the 19th century, within years after US President Thomas Jefferson bought from the French the territory of Louisiana, which was home to the Osage people, they were forced to cede much of their ancestral landnearly a hundred million acresand settle near southwestern Kansas, Oklahoma. They were assured by the US government this new land would be their home forever. The Osage did not want their new land to be violated by the white men, and so they bought the territory. While they settled into their reservation, which was certainly not prized real estate, hoping that their deities and way of life would not have to be compromised, the US authorities, as white man's burden always demands, thought that it was necessary to make them accept the the god and ways of the white men.

When Oklahoma became the 46th state of the US, the tribe sold their surface land in what was now Osage county but kept the mineral rights (headright) of the land under their control. Grann writes that the tribe knew that there were oil deposits under the reservation. The Osage wanted to make sure that they collectively owned what was below the land, and so they gave each person a headright, which could not be sold or bought. It could only be passed on or inherited. The headright for the land essentially meant that they had a share in the mineral trust and hence would receive a check for royalties for the oil drilled from their land. With the tribe's approval, John Florer, owner of a trading post, and a wealthy banking partner got a lease to begin drilling on the reservation. The tribe soon began leasing more of their areas to white prospectors for exploration.

The black gold changed their fortunes overnight. From being America's poorest, they became the richest people per capita in the world. An Osage writer later described the people of this decade as "the Kuwaitis of the 1920s."

"They were drawing millions. By 1923, the Osage collectively received that year more than $30 million...This was being split up by a group of about 2,000 people," Grann said in an interview.

As money started pouring in from oil royalties, they built mansions, appointed white servants, and bought the finest cars.

The reign of terror

Wealth attracts envy, and more wealth attracts the envy of the whole wide world. According to Grann, "The public, the whites, not just in Oklahoma, but across the US, were transfixed by the Osage wealth." It was said that each Osage owned 11 cars. Publications began to write about the lavish lifestyles of the Osage people. The message they wished to convey was that the Osage did not deserve this wealth and that they were wasting it.

Soon, things began to fall apart; and what has been described as the "reign of terror" began.

The US was still the land of outlaws, men with guns, and lawmen who dished out the kind of justice they deemed fit. "Everybody in the world descended into this area to try to find every possible way to separate the Osage from their money," says Grann in a documentary titled The Osage Murders.

The government held the racist belief that the Osage, or any tribes for that matter, could not manage their money, and so white guardians were appointed to help them with their money. These unscrupulous guardians had complete control over the assets of their wards, and they began looting the Osage. There were kickbacks for being appointed as guardians, skimming, and in many cases, outright stealing where the guardians would abscond with millions of dollars belonging to the Osage.

University of Tulsa professor Garrick Bailey, whose research Grann banked on while writing the book, observes in The Osage Murders documentary: "Many of the whites who lived in Osage county attempted to exploit the Osages. There are bootleggers, prostitutes, gamblers, burglars, rustlers, armed robbers, all of these people victimised the Osage. They are not the only ones. The merchants created a two-tier prizing level, charging the Osage more than they charge the non-Osage customers."

Soon, some of the members of the tribe began dropping dead under mysterious circumstances or started to disappear!

The whites also married the Osage headright holders. Upon the untimely death of a headright holder, the spouse would be left with great wealth. The book Killers of the Flower Moon focuses on one such marriage, that of Mollie Burkhart, originally, Mollie Kyle. Mollie was married to Ernest Burkhart, whose uncle William King Hale was seen as a respectable figure and the most powerful man in Osage county. Her sister, too, had married a white man. The book begins with the murder of Mollie's sister Anna. In a few months, other members of her family started dying, except Mollie as diabetes was taking her to an early grave anyway. The medication that she was on was only making her sicker.

Two months after Anna's murder, Mollie's mother was poisoned to death. Two years later, another sister, Rita, and her husband, Bill Smith, died after their house was destroyed in a bomb blast at night. As her family members died, Mollie became the sole owner of their headrights, and her wealth was managed by Ernest who was under the thumb of Hale.

Between 1921 and 1925, the official number of untimely deaths of Osage were 27, while unofficial accounts put the death count above 60. According to Grann, the world's wealthiest people per capita were becoming the world's most murdered. As Grann focuses on the life of Burkharts and Mollie's efforts to find the truth behind the murder of her sister Anna, he leads the readers to more such gory deathsby bullets, poisoning, "peculiar wasting illness", and from being thrown off a speeding train. It was as if every full-blooded Osage was walking around with a death warrant on him/her.

The deaths of Mollie's family members and others did not bother the authorities. Hale, his nephews, other oil barons, medics who examined the deceased, Hale's henchmen and other avaricious white men who stood to gain from these deaths were quick to draw a veil over the suspicious early deaths. Hale, the self-proclaimed 'King of the Osage Hills', knew how to cover his tracks as he never personally got his hands dirty.

Mollie, suspicious of the deaths surrounding her, began to fear for her life. She approached the law enforcement requesting them to look into the deaths, but was ignored. She even hired a private detective to look into the deaths, but he turned out to be corrupt. However, after the bomb blast, the Osage Tribal Council began urging the federal government to send detectives to investigate the murders.

The investigation

In May 1924, an ambitious 29-year-old man was made the chief of the Bureau of Investigation, which later became the FBI. J. Edgar Hooverthe deeply polarising figure in American history who headed the agency for decadesin the summer of 1925, summoned Thomas White, an old-school lawman and former Texas Ranger, who had no formal police training. Hoover asked White, who joined the Bureau of Investigation in 1917, to head the investigation into the Osage murders.

It was certainly not an easy task. The Osage had developed a general distrust for outsiders and white men. Nobody was willing to talk although they all knew Hale was behind the reign of terror. There was an almost impenetrable wall of fear...People who were afraid to talk and witnesses who might have given information had long since disappeared, writes Don Whitehead in the book The FBI Story: A Report to the People.

White had his team go undercover, as a cattle buyer, oil prospector, an insurance salesman, and a medicine man, to get people talking. Over time, they collected enough evidence to build a case against Hale and his henchmen. The investigators also got Ernest Burkhart to talk. He admitted that his brother Bryan was part of the plot to murder Anna at the orders of Hale. Hale's grand stratagem involved Ernest eventually killing Mollie, making him the sole owner of the family's oil rights as one did not have to be an Osage to inherit a headright. Grann, who spent five years researching the crimes, once said during an interview that Ernest Burkhart reminded him of "what are sometimes referred to as 'the willing executioners' in Germany during the Holocaust. They werent necessarily the leaders, but they were the people who went along. And because of that, so many people were killed."

Ernest revealed most of his uncle's misdeeds, including ordering the murder of Rita and her husband. Hale was also found guilty of the murder of Osage member Henry Roan, from whose death he benefitted $25,000 in the form of the life insurance policy taken out on his life.

The FBI cracked the crimes involving Hale after months of grueling undercover work, and the murders mostly stopped after the arrests of Hale and his accomplices. But not every murder was solved, not every murderer was brought to justice. "The murderers are now dead, and so are the eyewitnesses. One of the great horrors was that the murderers had many cases, not only erased their victims, they had often erased their history too," Grann said in an interview to RogerEbert.com.

It is hard to make sense of mass murders. Such deplorable crimes are possible only when a section of people refuse to see another as their equal. "Unquestionably, greed was the driving force. But I would say there was another deeper force at work than just greed. For these systemic crimes to have taken place, greed was fused together with a dehumanisation of another people. The perpetrators did not look upon their targets as fully embodied humans with souls and dignity," Grann said during a recent discussion at Oklahoma Christian University.

"Seldom in the long history of the white man's dubious dealings with the Indian has there been such a determined combination of craft and violence as that described by witnesses before the grand jury," The New York Times had said while reporting on the trial in the case.

The oil eventually dried out, and the Osage Indians have moved on to newer trades, but the collective memory of the genocide of their forefathers still haunts the current generation, although they mostly remain as mere footnotes in the vast history of oppression by the white men in America.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China on Thursday launched the Shenzhou-17 manned spaceship, and the three astronauts aboard, the country's youngest lineup ever with an average age of about 38, will spend about six months in orbit on a space station mission.

The rapid and steady progress China has made in the space industry is a testament to its independent capacity and strength in science and technology. It has also demonstrated the nation's confidence and willingness to open to the world in jointly building a community with a shared future in outer space.

Over the past two decades, China achieved a number of significant breakthroughs in space exploration, ranging from the launch of its first manned space vehicle in 2003, with Yang Liwei becoming the country's first astronaut, to the landmark completion of the space station's construction last year.

These successes are the result of China's new system for mobilizing resources nationwide to make key technological breakthroughs.

While stressing self-reliance in developing its space industry, China also advocates and promotes openness in space research, having carried out cooperation with multiple countries and international organizations.

For example, China has carried out gamma-ray burst polarization monitoring research with the European Space Agency on the Tiangong-2 space laboratory. It has also conducted human body medical research in a micro-gravitational environment with France during the Shenzhou-11 manned spaceflight mission, and carried out joint CAVES training and maritime rescue drills with the European Astronaut Centre.

In early October, China announced that the lunar soil samples retrieved by the probe of its Chang'e-5 mission would soon be open to international applications for joint research.

At a press conference Wednesday, the China Manned Space Agency extended an invitation to the world to participate in China's space station missions.

China has always advocated the use of outer space for peaceful purposes, and opposes any attempt to turn outer space into a weapon or battlefield or launch an arms race in outer space. It develops and utilizes space resources in a prudent manner and takes effective measures to protect the space environment. China's openness to the outside world highlights its sincerity in these solemn pledges.

With growing confidence and more openness, China is set to achieve even greater progress on its new journey towards a strong space presence. It is certain that the future achievements China makes in aerospace will benefit not only China, but also all humanity. 
Eight former Indian Navy personnel were sentenced to death by a court in Qatar on Thursday. The accused men have been detained in Qatar for over a year.

The Indian government expressed deep shock in the verdict and vowed to contest the sentencing in all possible legal ways to release its citizens. Reacting to the sentence, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said "We are deeply shocked by verdict of death penalty and are awaiting detailed judgement."

"We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," read the MEA statement. "We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," it added.

Reportedly, the eight men were charged with espionage.

The eight men, including officers who have commanded major Indian warships, were working for Al Dahra Global Technologies and Consultancy Services, a private firm that provided training and services to Qatar's armed forces.

Commander (retired) Purnendu Tiwari, who is among the detained Indians, served as Al Dahra's managing director and commanded several warships while serving with the navy. The rest of those convicted include Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Saurabh Vasisht, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Commander Amit Nagpal and Sailor Rahesh.

The bail pleas by the men were rejected multiple times and their detention was extended by Qatari authorities. Since August 2022 the men have been in jail. MEA has been working to secure their release since then. The trial began in March.

The Court of First Instance of Qatar has passed the judgement.

Earlier in June, Meetu Bhargava, sister of one of the former officers detained had sought the government's help to bring back her brother, reported NDTV.

"These Ex Navy officers are the pride of the nation and again I request our Hon'ble Prime Minister with folded hands that it is high time that they all are brought back to India immediately without any further delay," Bhargava wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
The parliament ethics committee has summoned Trinamool Congress MP Mahua Moitra on October 31 over the cash-for-query allegations, panel chief Vinod Sonkar said on Thursday.

The committee recorded the statements of BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and Advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, who had accused the TMC lawmaker of taking bribes from businessman Darshan Hiranandani to ask questions in parliament.

"The two people who were summoned today - the lawyer and Nishikant Dubey - were heard attentively. After that, it was decided that Mahua Moitra would be called on October 31. She will come and present her part. The committee has also decided that the IT Ministry and MHA will be sent letters to make her details available," Sonkar said.

Dehadrai was the first to record his statement before the ethics committee, while Dubey appeared before the panel in the afternoon.

Dubey had earlier written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing Moitra of breach of parliamentary privilege and demanding her immediate suspension from house.

In his letter, Dubey said the advocate, close to Moitra before they fell out, had shared "irrefutable evidence of bribes exchanged" between her and businessman Hiranandani to target the Adani Group and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaker Birla forwarded the complaint to the Ethics Committee headed by BJP MP Vinod Sonkar. The other members are Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; V. Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, Balashowry Vallabbhaneni, and Preneet Kaur of the Congress; Hemant Godse of the Shiv Sena; Giridhari Yadav of the JD(U); P R Natarajan of the CPI(M); and Danish Ali of the BSP.

Hiranandani has admitted that that the MP has shared with him her Lok Sabha login details so that he could directly post the questions.

In a signed affidavit submitted to the ethics panel, Hiranandani said Moitra had made frequent demands, including "expensive luxury items, providing support on renovation of her officially allotted bungalow in Delhi, travel expenses, holidays, etc, apart from providing secretarial and logistical help for her travels within India and to different parts of the world.

Moitra, however, has denied all allegations as the lies of "jilted ex" (Dehadrai) and said she was being targetted by the Adani group as she was relentless in raising questions on the conglomerate's practices.

Calling Hiranandanis affidavit a joke, Moitra said that the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) might have forced him to sign the paper.
There seems to be a glimmer of hope. On Thursday, India resumed visa services for certain categories in Canada which was suspended for a month amid a diplomatic row between the two countries over the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Canada welcomed the decision. Immigration Minister Marc Miller said it was a good sign after an anxious time. Our feeling is that a suspension should never have happened in the first place," he was quoted as saying by CTV News.

While tourist, student, employment, and film visas are not open as yet, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa will start processing entry, business, medical, and conference visas.

"After a considered review of the security situation that takes into account some of the recent Canadian measures in this regard, it has been decided to resume visa services, a statement issued by the Indian High Commission said. This would be applicable to Canadians applying abroad too.

India may have chosen not to open the doors to the biggest number of applicants at the moment. But it does suggest that conversations are happening behind closed doors and they are working. The most important bit of the statement that suggested that progress has been made was India saying it is comfortable with the security situation. India had said the decision was taken "after a considered review of the security situation."

New Delhi had lodged a strong protest with Canada after posters that appeared to offer cash rewards in exchange for the home addresses of Indian diplomats were circulated in Canada.

The resumption of visas by India comes in the same week that saw 41 Canadian diplomats leaving India to ensure parity in staff at the missions. It also comes at a time when the UK, the US, and New Zealand have chosen to express their concern over the reduction of Canadian diplomats in India. We are concerned by the departure of Canadian diplomats from India.Resolving differences requires diplomats on the ground. We have urged India not to insist upon reduction in Canadas diplomatic presence and to cooperate in the ongoing Canadian investigation, a press statement by Matthew Miller, US State Department spokesperson, had said.

In a statement, the Canada-India Business Council said it was "a promising development" for trade. "It is also a positive sign that both governments have expressed their support for bilateral business and investments amidst these unusual times," Victor Thomas, Canada-India Business Council head, has been quoted as saying in a statement.
Five militants were killed in Machil, Kupwara, after security forces foiled an infiltration attempt on Thursday along the Line of Control (LoC).

Shortly after the operation was launched against the infiltrators, the Kashmir Zone Police posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating that, based on specific information, an encounter began in the Machil Sector, resulting in the killing of five militants.

The search operation is still under way, according to the police.

A police spokesperson stated, "Based on intelligence provided by Kupwara Police, a joint operation was successfully carried out by the Police and Army along the LoC in the Machil Sector of Kupwara district, thwarting an infiltration attempt."

He added, "In this swift and coordinated operation, five militants were neutralised."

The operation against the infiltrators was initiated in response to intelligence input, the spokesperson said.

The operation was conducted by a joint team of Kupwara police and the Army's 56RR unit swiftly during the night of October 25-26 in the Sardari Nar area along the LoC.

The militants managed to infiltrate by exploiting the dense forest cover in the area. However, their movements were soon detected by security forces, leading to the launch of an operation.

The identities of the killed militants are currently under investigation. Five AK rifles and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.

Infiltration attempts have been on the rise recently, with most of them being foiled by the Army, resulting in the death of the infiltrating militants.

On September 16, three militants were killed near the LoC at Hathlanga, Uri, in Baramulla.

During the search operation, security forces came under fire, triggering an encounter in which one unidentified militant was initially killed. Later, two more militants were killed in the firefight with the security forces.

Since September 17, security forces have thwarted six infiltration incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. Two incidents occurred in Reasi's Chassana area, one in the Narla area of Rajouri, and the rest in north Kashmir's Uri, Baramulla, and Kupwara.

Militants have also changed tactics, resorting to more deadly attacks in areas close to the Pir Panjal, including south Kashmir's Kulgam and Anantnag districts.

On September 13, a fierce encounter in Gadole forest, Kokernag, Anantnag, resulted in the deaths of two Army officers (a Colonel and a Major), a soldier, and a DSP of the police. The Army and J&K police surrounded the forest, ultimately killing the two militants involved in the attacks after a seven-day operation, the longest operation in Kashmir in a decade.
The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra's invite for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya has triggered a war of words between the BJP and Opposition parties.

The Congress has questioned whether "God is now limited to one party" and accused the BJP of raising the Ram Mandir issue for electoral gains, ahead of the Assembly and Lok Sabha elections.



"Is the invitation going to just one party? I cannot comment on who would reach and who would not. But is God now limited to one party? The invitation should be for everyone It is being made into a program of just one party. Is this a party program or related to only one person? Invitations should have been sent to everyone," Khurshid told ANI.



The installation of the idol of Lord Ram in the Garbhagriha (the 'pran pratishtha') is expected to take place on January 22. The Prime Minister, while informing about the invite, said it was his good fortune that he would be a witness to this historic occasion in his lifetime.



However, the Opposition's INDIA bloc leaders have targetted Modi, calling it an election gimmick. According to Sanjay Raut of Shiv Sena (UBT), the whole thing has something to do with the "preparation of elections".



"There was no need to invite PM Modi as he himself would attend such a big event. Ram Mandir was supposed to be built. Thousands of karsevaks have given their lives for it. All Hindutvavadi organisations and parties were involved. Shiv Sena, Bajrang Dal and Vishwa Hindu Parishad were there. LK Advani took out a Rath Yatra. It is the result of all of this that Ram Mandir is being built. This is why PM Modi would go and perform prayers but I think that this is the preparation of the elections..." Sanjay Raut said.



DMK leader TKS Elangovan said the BJP is "replacing history with mythology". "They have demolished history and replaced it with mythology. Any country should be proud of its history, it should know the history. Ram's birth is mythology, it is a story from Ramayana. It is literature. They want to replace history with mythology. That is what the BJP is trying to do," he said,



Elangovan added that BJP wants to use the issue as a political tool. "He is not interested in Ram. BJP does not consider Ram as an important thing but their political gain becomes important so they are making use of Ram for their political gains," he alleged.


BJP MP Nishikant Dubey and advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai will appear before the Lok Sabha's Ethics Committee on Thursday, as it holds its first meeting on the "cash for query" allegation against TMC MP Mahua Moitra.

"Oral Evidence of Shri Jai Anant Dehadrai, Advocate in respect of complaint dated 15 October, 2023 given by Dr. Nishikant Dubey, MP against Smt. Mahua Moitra, MP for alleged direct involvement in cash for query in Parliament. Oral evidence of Dr. Nishikant Dubey, MP, in respect of complaint dated 15 October, 2023 given by him against Smt. Mahua Moitra, MP for alleged direct involvement in cash for query in Parliament," the panel's schedule for Thursday said.



Dubey filed a complaint with Speaker Om Birla against Moitra, citing the documents provided to him by advocate Jai Anant Dehadrai, former partner of Moitra.



In his letter to the Speaker, he alleged Mahua Moitra got expensive gifts or money in exchange for asking questions about entrepreneur Gautam Adani in Parliament. Dubey said 50 of 61 questions she asked in Lok Sabha till recently were focused on the Adani Group.



Dubey added that Moitra was in India when her parliamentary ID was used in Dubai and claimed that the National Informatics Centre (NIC) disclosed the information to probe agencies. The BJP leader said that "an MP pawned the country's security for some money."



Speaker Birla forwarded the complaint to the Ethics Committee headed by BJP MP Vinod Kumar Sonkar. The other members are Vishnu Datt Sharma, Sumedhanand Saraswati, Aparajita Sarangi, Rajdeep Roy, Sunita Duggal, and Subhash Bhamre of the BJP; V Vaithilingam, N Uttam Kumar Reddy, Balashowry Vallabbhaneni, and Preneet Kaur of the Congress; Hemant Godse of the Shiv Sena; Giridhari Yadav of the JD(U); P R Natarajan of the CPI(M); and Danish Ali of the BSP.

Mahua denied all allegations as the lies of "jilted ex" (Dehadrai) and said she was being targetted by the Adani group as she was relentless in raising questions on the conglomerate's practices.



However, Darsh Hiranandani, the CEO of the real estate-to-energy eponymous group, came out with a signed affidavit wherein he said he allegedly paid her to raise questions in Parliament. He admitted that the TMC leader targeted Gautam Adani to "malign and embarrass" Modi whose impeccable reputation gave the opposition no opportunity to attack him.


Pakistan Rangers resorted to unprovoked firing at Indian posts in Jammu on Thursday night, prompting strong retaliation by the Border Security Force.

"Tonight at about 2000 hours, unprovoked firing started by Pak Rangers on BSF posts in Arnia area which is being befittingly retaliated by BSF troops," the BSF said in a statement.

The firing was still on, it said.

Unconfirmed reports claimed that some BSF jawans have sustained injuries in the exchange of fire.

On October 17, Pakistan Rangers had fired at Indian posts in the Arnia sector, leaving a BSF soldier injured.

The fresh firing came on a day when the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police in a joint operation foiled an infiltration bid and killed five terrorists along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district.

Five AK rifles and ammunition have been recovered from the encounter site.
The Enforcement Directorate has issued a summons to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son in a FEMA case and he has been asked to appear before the agency on Friday. Vaibhav Gehlot has been asked to appear in relation to recent raids conducted against a hospitality group in Rajasthan.

According to reports, Vaibhav Gehlots summons is related to the recent ED raids against Rajasthan-based hospitality group Triton Hotels and Resorts Private Ltd, Vardha Enterprises Private Ltd and its directors and promoters Shiv Shankar Sharma, Rattan Kant Sharma and others. Rattan Kant Sharma's alleged links with Vaibhav Gehlot are allegedly under the scanner of the ED and it is expected to question and record his statement under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Unaccounted cash of Rs 1.2 crore was seized by the ED after these searches.

CM Gehlot on X called the actions EDs Red Rose. Gehlot alleged BJP doesnt want people in the state to enjoy the benefits of the governments guarantees, hence the raids. Date 25/10/23 Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23 -ED raid on Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Ji Dotasara, summons to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear in ED, Gehlot tweeted.

He added, Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED's Red Rose is happening inside Rajasthan because BJP does not want women, farmers and poor in Rajasthan should get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress.

EDs searches at residences of Congress leaders come as the state is gearing up for Assembly elections on November 25. Rajasthan is one of the states Congress is pinning hopes on in the upcoming Assembly elections in five states. Gehlot hopes his government will be re-elected, despite issues within the party and opposition from the Sachin Pilot-led bloc.

-With agency inputs.
The Enforcement Directorate is conducting searches at around a dozen places in Rajasthan, including the residences of State Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra and a few other Congress leaders in the exam paper leak case. The agency conducted similar raids last week in connection with the case.



The raids come in the backdrop of allegations that question papers for the recruitment of government school teachers in the state were leaked to aspirants accepting a bribe of Rs 8-10 lakh. The agency conducted searches at around seven places last week, including the premises of Congress leader Dinesh Khodaniya, and seized  12 lakh in cash and incriminating documents.

EDs searches at residences of Congress leaders come as the state is gearing up for Assembly elections on November 25. The premises of Dotasra, a former minister for school education, in Sikar and Jaipur apart from party candidate from Mahua seat in Dausa, Omprakash Hudla, and some others are being searched, they said.

Dotasra is the party candidate from Lacchmangarh seat of Sikar against BJP's Subhash Maharia. He is also the sitting MLA from this seat.

Former RPSC member Babulal Katara and another person identified as Anil Kumar Meena were arrested by the ED in this case. It had first raided multiple locations in Rajasthan as part of this investigation in June.

-With agency inputs.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Thursday slammed the BJP after ED summoned his son Vaibhav and raided the premises of the Congress' state president Govind Singh Dotasra, saying terror has been unleashed in the country.



He claimed that Enforcement Directorate (ED) raids happen wherever elections are held. Be it Chhattisgarh, Karnataka or Himachal Pradesh, ED raids happened just before elections, the chief minister said. "Raids happened but the Congress won the elections. The situation is worrisome. They have unleashed terror in the country," Gehlot told reporters at a press conference here.

Asserting that the Congress "will not be scared no matter how hard they try, he alleged the BJP was targeting him through ED raids as they could not topple his government. "We will win the election," the Rajasthan chief minister asserted.

Citing data, Gehlot said that 112 searches by the ED happened during 10 years of UPA rule and charge sheets were filed in 104 cases. But after 2014, as many as 3,010 raids happened and charge sheets were filed in 881 cases, he said.

The Congress' state in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, state ministers Mahesh Joshi and Pratap Singh Khachariyawas were among those also present at the press conference.

The Enforcement Directorate on Thursday raided the premises of Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and Omprakash Hudla, the party's candidate from Mahua assembly seat, as part of a money laundering probe into the alleged exam paper leak case in the poll-bound state.

The federal probe agency has also summoned Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot's son Vaibhav Gehlot for questioning in a case related to alleged contravention of the foreign exchange law. After the raids, Congress workers sat on a dharna in Sikar and Jaipur and raised slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
By Azernews

Qabil Ashirov

As the saying goes, only fools repeat the same things over and over but expect different results. Unfortunately, not just ordinary people but also big states frequently get entrapped in this snobbism. Overestimating itself, like people, the countries think that they can succeed in a project which other much stronger and wealthier countries failed. Currently, the best example of such a snobbish country is Iran.

As is known, Russia has been supporting and even feeding Armenia over for 30 years, since the inception of its independence. Russia attached great importance to Armenia to such an extent that it constructed all its projects in the region through Armenia. Previously, these two countries were strategic allies. However, despite all signed contracts and agreements, Russia has called Armenia a suitcase with a handle and tried to get rid of it, recently.

Surely, the second superpower in the world had thought that Armenia would take advantage of Russian support to develop itself in terms of military and economy. However, like a leech sucking, Armenia sucked Russian resources but did not develop. Eventually, the ever-being hunger of the suitcase without a handle turned into a burden to Russia. Simultaneously, Russia became insufficient for the Armenian ever-growing appetite, and the country started to look for new suitors, especially from the West. The European suitor, more precisely, France has been waiting for invitations for a long, but suddenly and unexpectedly new suitor from the East, i.e. Iran emerged.

Iran, which presents itself as the protector of Islam, especially Shias, commenced threatening Muslim Shia Azerbaijan on behalf of Christian Armenia. The so-called protector of Islam started to speak about long-forgotten territorial integrity. I say long-forgotten because Iran had not said anything for over thirty years when Azerbaijan's territories were under the invasion of Armenia. Even the toothless and moribund lion of the east or, to put it more bluntly, Iran, which is almost isolated from the world and alien to the political prism of the principle of alliance, went further by stating that the territorial integrity of Armenia is its red line.

Following the political uphold, Iran started to speak about economic cooperation. To assist Hayastan, Iran constructed roads and bridges. The Persian Roads and Urban Development Minister, Mehrdad Bazrpash praised the cooperation, which actually was wasting the money of poor Iranian citizens, and even invited Armenian companies to participate in mega construction projects in Iran. The Minister pointed out that his country plans to build 4 million residential houses and he would be happy if Armenian construction companies partook in this construction boom. He impudently extolled the development of the construction sector in Armenia. However, Armenia imports roughly all construction materials from abroad. Besides, Armenia has not finished the highway starting from the Iranian border to the Georgian border for dozens of years. It seems the toothless lioness is not going to limit itself to only the wasting money in Armenia, but also aims to enrich Hay companies instead of local ones.

Obviously, Iran thinks Russia failed because they were not good at geopolitics and business. However, the reality is different. Russia is much better in geopolitics and wealthier than Iran. Russia is a cosmic country and owns a strong industry. However, it could not help Armenia. On the contrary, it mired but could save itself. Nevertheless, the toothless and moribund lion still did not leave the vixen alone.




BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China's job market remained generally stable, with 10.22 million new urban jobs having been added in the first nine months of 2023, data showed Thursday.

China set an annual target of creating 12 million new urban jobs for the full year in 2023.

In September, the country's surveyed urban unemployment rate stood at 5 percent, according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security. China aims to keep the surveyed urban jobless rate at around 5.5 percent this year.

"The employment situation has remained generally stable," Chen Feng, the ministry's spokesperson, told a press conference, adding that all employment indicators are within expectations.

Chen said the government has stepped up efforts in prioritizing work to stabilize and expand employment, with concrete measures including offering vocational training, improving services and providing subsidies for companies to create jobs.

In the first nine months of this year, some 80.9 billion yuan (about 11.27 billion U.S. dollars) was provided in subsidies to boost employment, according to Chen. 
Rajasthan's former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot on Thursday came out in support of his political rival, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, decrying the summons of the Enforcement Directorate to the latter's son Vaibhav.

Pilot addressed a press conference at the AICC headquarters to condemn the Enforcement Directorate's action against PCC president Govind Singh Dotasra and the summons served by the agency to Vaibhav to appear before it.

The ED raids against Dotasra are in connection with the paper leaks matter, and Vaibhav has been summoned in a case of alleged Forex violation.

Pilot has through the press conference sought to project the state unit as a united house ahead of elections. This is in contrast to Pilot's protests against his own government on various issues, such as the paper leaks matter and corruption charges against former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje.

He has often taken on the chief minister directly, the backdrop being the tussle for power between the two.

However, closer to elections, in the face of the ED action, the party leaders have closed ranks, as was evident in Pilot coming out in support of Gehlot.

In the press conference, he referred to the advice given to him by party president Mallikarjun Kharge about letting bygones be bygones and looking ahead.

Pilot, however, gave clear indications that he is not ceding ground on the issue of who will be the next chief minister if the Congress wins.

Asked for his reaction to Gehlot's remarks at a recent press conference at the AICC office that the chief minister's chair does not seem to leave him, Pilot pointed to the convention of the MLAs deciding who will occupy the top post, and the role of the party high command in the process to zero in on a name acceptable to all.

He said what is there in the future cannot be foretold and one has to live in the present while drawing lessons from the past. He further said the party will decide what the roles of different leaders will be in the future.

Following the truce that was worked out between Gehlot and Pilot by the Congress leadership a few months ago, the two leaders have desisted from attacking each other.

Gehlot, at his recent press conference in Delhi, said on the issue of selection of candidates that he was party to decisions that were in favour of Pilot. He insisted that he had not opposed ticket to any Pilot supporter.
A Delhi court on Thursday deferred to November 7 the hearing on the quantum of sentence for the five men convicted for killing TV journalist Soumya Vishwanathan in 2008 on grounds that the pre-sentence report and other documents were yet to be filed.

On October 18, Additional Sessions Judge (ASJ) Ravindra Kumar Pandey had convicted Ravi Kapoor, Amit Shukla, Baljeet Malik, and Ajay Kumar under IPC section 302 (murder) and provisions of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) and listed the case for hearing arguments on the quantum of sentence on Thursday.

Taking note of the fact that certain documents, including the pre-sentence report of the probationary officer, had to be filed mandatorily if the maximum sentence in the case is death penalty, the court adjourned the hearing to November 7.

Vishwanathan, who was working with a leading English news channel, was shot dead in the early hours of September 30, 2008, on south Delhi's Nelson Mandela Marg while she was returning home from work. Police claimed the motive was robbery.

"List the matter for consideration of the report of the probation officer, consideration on the affidavits of the convicts, affidavit on behalf of the state and report from Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLA)... and for arguments on quantum of sentence on November 7 at 2 PM," ASJ Pandey said.

He said though the Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLA) had filed the victim impact report, the convicts had not filed their affidavits. Counsels for the convicts jointly submitted that they were unable to prepare the affidavits as they did not have the details and necessary direction could be issued to the jail superintendent and legal aid counsel, available with prison authorities, to assist the convicts in preparation of the affidavits.

The court said according to the guidelines of the Delhi High Court, in a case where there is a conviction for an offence punishable with the death penalty (as one of the alternate punishments), a pre-sentence report had to be obtained from the probation officer before the hearing on the quantum of sentence.

"Accordingly, the principal secretary, home department, Delhi government is hereby directed to assign to any probation officer the task of submitting the pre- sentencing report," the court said.

It said the report had to specifically include the twin aspects of whether the convicts could commit further crimes and thus remain a "continuing threat to society" and whether there was any probability of the convicts being reformed and rehabilitated.

While detailing the inquiry procedure to be followed by the probation officer, the court said in the light of the fundamental right against self-incrimination, the convicts must be informed of their rights to be silent and in no circumstance can any adverse inference be drawn if the convicts refuse to give an interview to the probation officer.

"The probation officer shall submit the report within one week from today," the court said adding, "The principal secretary, home department, will appoint a probation officer immediately on the receipt of the order of this court keeping in view the fact that case is more than 15 years old."

The court also asked the Secretary of DLSA to depute one legal aid counsel, who would visit the prison for the preparation of affidavits of the convicts within 24 hours of the receipt of the order.
The 33-year-old Delhi man arrested for allegedly killing a Swiss woman here had promised precious gemstones and offered astrology tricks to other foreign women too to befriend them, police sources said on Thursday.



Gurpreet Singh, a resident of Delhi's Janakpuri, told interrogators he was in touch with multiple foreign women apart from Nina Berger, whose body was found near an MCD-run school on October 20 with limbs tied with a chain.

Singh's father has a business of gemstones and astrology in West Delhi. He is currently believed to be in Paris. The police suspect Gurpreet Singh learned astrology from his father and used it to lure foreign women. He used the same trick to befriend Berger and lure her to come to India, they suspect.

She came to India on October 11 and stayed in two different hotels in West Delhi. "In the first, she stayed till October 16. Then she shifted to another hotel, where we believe, she stayed before being killed by Gurpreet on October 18. The decomposed body of Berger was recovered from near a school in Tilak Nagar on October 20," a police officer said.

He said Singh's chats with other foreign women have been retrieved from his two mobile phones, but he has deleted his chats with Berger. He has visited foreign countries, including Switzerland, multiple times, the police said. "There are chats recovered from his mobile phone where he has talked with several women about gemstones and astrology. It is suspect he would lure them for friendship by offering them precious stones or using astrology tricks," the officer said.

The police said they have recovered Berger's iPhone too, but have not been able to unlock it. They are taking the help of cyber experts.

Singh's family owns multiple properties in various parts of Delhi but the trail of huge cash recovered from his house is yet to be investigated.

The police have managed to reach out to the family of Berger in Zurich, via the Embassy of Switzerland. But they said they cannot come to India. Her body has been kept at a mortuary in a west Delhi hospital.

The police wanted the family to come to India for identification so that the process of postmortem examination could be started. But now, the police await an NOC (no-objection certificate) from the Swiss Embassy. Since the identification of the body is a crucial part in the investigation, the police plan to take the help of DNA and biometric process.

From the hotel where Berger stayed, the police have recovered a trolley bag carrying articles which are believed to be belonging to her. The DNA match of the dead body could be done with the recovered articles, an official said. Berger used to work with a law firm in Switzerland.
He may have helped the country conquer the moon, is making a similar attempt for the Sun and is busy preparing sending Indians to the space--all multi-crore rupee ventures, but ISRO chairman S Somanath's humble beginnings included an old bicycle and a modest lodging to cut transport and hostel expenses while in college.

These little details, among many others, find a mention in his upcoming Malayalam autobiography, which he calls an attempt to inspire the talented, yet not so confident.

The autobiography in Malayalam titled "Nilavu Kudicha Simhangal," - loosely translated as - Lions that drank the moonlight - promises to be a tale of motivation. The book focuses on the power of hard work and perseverance in the face of difficulties. It was inspired by the massive success of Chandrayaan-3, ISRO's moon mission headed by Somanath, that catapulted India to an elite league of nations.

After the successful lunar mission and amidst back-to-back launches of Aditya-L1 solar mission and the Gaganyaan test vehicle, 59-year old Somanath has managed to find time to chronicle his life story.

Being published by Kerala-based Lipi Publications, the book is slated to hit the shelves in November.

Though it is the story of his eventful saga from an impoverished village youth, growth through the ISRO, elevation to the current coveted post and his journey till the Chandrayaan-3 launch, Somanath said he would like to call it as an inspirational story rather than an autobiography.

"It is actually the story of an ordinary village youth who doesn't even know whether to join engineering or BSc...about his dilemmas, right decisions he made in life, and the opportunities he received in a country like India," he told PTI.

"The book is not intended to teach my life story. Its only intention is to inspire people to chase their dreams while battling adversities in life," the ISRO Chairman added.

The veteran recalled his humble rural background, but said the country opened immense opportunities before him, and the autobiography is an attempt to highlight this.

It was the historic success of the Chandrayaan-3 that persuaded him to come out with a book soon.

"The lunar mission has made such a great impact in the society. When we looked around, we could see how many people, especially children, were inspired by its success. They understood that India and Indians could do such great things," he explained.

Lack of confidence is one of the major issues faced by many talented people, and the aim of his book is to showcase them that, he said.

Pointing out his life as an example, Somanath said that despite conflicts and dilemmas, it is very important to make use of the right opportunities in life and choose the best career options.

In the book, he describes in detail how he was forced to stay in a tiny lodge room in Kollam district as there was no money to pay hostel fees while studying at TKM Engineering College there decades ago.

He commuted to the college by riding an old bicycle as he could not afford the bus fare and was forced to skip the study tour due to poverty in the family.

Somanath said there was no one to guide him in the initial years of his studies, and if a person had not bought him admission form of the engineering college unexpectedly, he would have joined BSc or some other course.

If you ask him what worked more in his life-luck or hard work, he would turn philosophical and recite some Sanskrit slokas from the epic Mahabharata.

"We should have some luck initially, but we should also be mentally prepared to accept and make use of opportunities that come our way. Similarly, several people will also come our way with a purpose, and we should be able to realise their role in our lives," Somanath said.

That would help in our career growth, he added.

In his life, there were several such people who came with a purpose, including his father, the person who bought him admission form for the engineering course, his first boss, Ramakrishnan, former ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan, and so on.

The autobiography would evolve through such phases of his personal life and develop through his journey in ISRO till the launch of Chandrayaan-3.

The stories of rocket manufacturing, PSLV, GSLV Mark III and Chandrayaan-3 are also mentioned in the book in parallel.

When asked why he chose to write the book in Malayalam, Somanath had a quick reply.

"Because I am a Malayali and I am more comfortable writing in my mother tongue," he said with a smile.
News channel Al Jazeera has said that four members of the family of one of its correspondents were killed on Wednesday night in an Israeli air strike that the Hamas-run enclave's health ministry said killed at least 25 people, a Reuters report reads.

The Israeli Defence Forces haven't commented on the strike yet. Al Jazeera Gaza bureau chief Wael al-Dahdouh's family had fled to the area after an Israeli warning as it plans a Gaza ground incursion.

"Their home was targeted in the Nuseirat camp in the centre of Gaza, where they had sought refuge after being displaced by the initial bombardment in their neighbourhood, following Prime Minister Netanyahus call for all civilians to move south," Al Jazeera said. "The network strongly condemns the indiscriminate targeting and killing of innocent civilians in Gaza, which has led to the loss of Wael Al-Dahdouh's family and countless others," the news channel added.

The air strike killed al-Dahdouh's wife, son, daughter and grandson. 21 others were killed in the same strike. What happened is clear. This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians. I was just reporting from Yarmouk about such an attack, and the Israeli raids have targeted many areas, including Nuseirat, he told Al Jazeera.

Since the attacks began on October 7, Israeli strikes have killed over 6,500 people in Gaza and displaced close to 600,000 people. On October 23, India sent medical aid and disaster relief supplies to Gaza. On Wednesday, the UK organization Oxfam accused Israel of using starvation as a weapon of war.
Hamass military wing on Thursday claimed almost 50 hostages were killed due to Israeli airstrikes. Abu Obeida, spokesperson for the Hamass military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, gave the update regarding the hostage situation in a statement through Telegram.

Al-Qassam Brigades estimates that the number of Zionist prisoners who were killed in the Gaza Strip as a result of Zionist strikes and massacres has reached almost 50, Obeida said in Telegram, reported AFP.

As Israel prepares for ground attack, targeted raids are launched in Gaza as next stage of combat.

Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said it killed deputy head of Hamas intelligence, Shadi Barud, in a strike in the Gaza Strip. IDF accused Barud of planning the October 7 Hamas attacks in southern Israel.

Shadi Barud, Deputy Head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate has been eliminated by an IDF aerial strike.



He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis.



We will continue to strike and eliminate Hamas  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Amid Israel-Hamas intensifying conflict, European Union leaders meet is underway in Brussels.

With the looming ground attack, Iran's foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian warned if Israel's retaliation against Hamas militants in Gaza does not end then the US will "not be spared from this fire".

The Islamic Republic of Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey. Naturally, the release of the 6,000 Palestinian prisoners is another necessity and responsibility of the global community, Amirabdollahian was quoted by Reuters.

Meanwhile, a delegation from Hamas visited Moscow on Thursday for talks on the release of foreign hostages including Russian citizens that the militant group is holding in Gaza.

Senior Hamas member Abu Marzouk was among those attending the talks, reported TASS.

"Contacts were held with him in continuation of the Russian line on the immediate release of foreign hostages in the Gaza Strip. Issues related to ensuring the evacuation of Russian and other foreign citizens from the territory of the Palestinian enclave were also discussed," TASS said.

Russia has repeatedly blamed the current crisis on the failure of US diplomacy and called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and resume talks for peace settlement.

IDF has accused Hamas of holding around 222 hostages in Gaza. So far, four hostages were released by Hamas.
The satellite images released by a US-based space technology firm have revealed the devastating impact of Israeli air raids on the Gaza Strip, post the October 7 Hamas attack.

The images shared by Maxar Technologies show significant damage to the cities including Izbat Beit Hanoun, Atatra and Al Shati Refugee Camp.



These telling images come as Israel continues to bombard Gaza. The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said on Thursday that its fighter jets struck over 250 sites belonging to the Hamas terror in the Gaza Strip over the past day. The sites included Hamas infrastructure, command centres, tunnels and rocket launchers.



Before and after images of Gazan city of Beit Hanoun | Reuters via Maxar Before and after images of Gazan city of Atatra | Reuters via Maxar

It added that Hamas had placed rocket launchers in the heart of civilian areas that fired toward Israeli territory throughout the war.



The IDF Navy forces also struck a Hamas surface-to-air missile launch position in Khan Younis. The missile launch site is "located adjacent to a mosque and kindergarten, which is further proof that Hamas deliberately uses civilian sites for terror purposes," said the IDF statement.



According to the Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza, over 750 people were killed over Wednesday, higher than the 704 killed the previous day.



Ground raids



The IDF said it launched a brief ground raid into northern Gaza overnight into Thursday. The infantry forces and tanks ventured into the northern part of the strip. The raid led by the Givati infantry brigade was reportedly part of preparing the border area for the ground war. "Troops struck numerous terrorists, infrastructure, and anti-tank guided missile launch positions, and operated to prepare the battlefield," the IDF was quoted by The Times of Israel.



The forces struck several militant targets to "prepare the battlefield" and the soldiers returned to Israeli territory after the raid.



The Gaza Health Ministry says more than 6,500 Palestinians have been killed in the war. That figure includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week. The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government. Hamas also holds some 222 hostages in Gaza.


As Israel is preparing for next stage of combat, Israel Defence Forces (IDF) on Thursday said its troops and tanks briefly entered north Gaza in the overnight targeted raids.

While speaking at his presidential palace in Ankara, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan termed the attacks on Gaza as barbaric. Nobody should expect Turkey to remain silent in the face of the violence in Gaza, said Erdogan.

There was no difference between Gazan, Palestinian, Israeli, and Syrian children in the eyes of Turkey, he added.

Erdogan also said it would intensify its efforts with Egypt to get humanitarian aid into Gaza.

He also criticised the West countries for unconditional support for Israeli attacks. Western countries were not adhering to international law in Gaza because the blood spilled is Muslims blood, he added.

According to Gaza Health Ministry, over 7,000 Palestinians, including 2,913 children were killed in the airstrikes since the Hamas attack on October 7.

In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids.

Also, tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border has intensified further with both Israeli troops and Hezbollah militants exchanging strikes. Lebanese media on Thursday said Israel conducted airstrikes and drone attacks early morning in southern Lebanon.

Hezbollah and Israel have clashed since a day after the Israel-Hamas war erupted following Hamas' deadly attack on Israel.

Meanwhile, amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, Florida's university system, working with Governor Ron DeSantis ordered colleges to shut down a pro-Palestinian student organisation, marking the first US state to outlaw the group whose national leadership backed Hamas's attack on Israel.

UN steps up appeal for fuel in Gaza

The United Nations providing aid to Palestinians warned it may have to shut down its operations shortly if no fuel reaches the enclave amid an increasingly desperate need for shelter, water, food and medical services.

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) said it urgently required fuel to maintain life-saving humanitarian operations in Gaza.

"If fuel is not received into Gaza, UNRWA will be forced to significantly reduce and in some cases bring its humanitarian operations across the Gaza Strip to a halt. The coming 24 hours are very critical," it said.

Israel has refused to let in fuel saying it could be seized by Hamas.

"In the last 24 hours another three UNRWA staff members have been killed, bringing the total to 38 staff killed," said UNRWA.
Amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia war, European Unions leaders meet in Brussels on Thursday. Calling for unity on the Israel-Gaza situation, the leaders are considering an amended text on the issue.

"The European Council reiterates the importance of ensuring the protection of all civilians at all times in line with international humanitarian law. It deplores all loss of civilian life," the text was quoted by The Guardian.

The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs, it added.

Addressing the EU's 27 leaders, European parliament president Roberta Metsola said "there can be no excuses" for Hamas's attack on Israel.

Just as it is important to understand that Hamas do not represent the legitimate aims of the Palestinian people. They hinder them, she added.

"As a Parliament we have always and will always keep insisting on respect for international law, that the humanitarian consequences of stopping Hamas must be a priority and that aid must be able to reach the innocent people in need," she said.

"As a Union, we have a responsibility to remain coherent and united. To do this is not to condone more death and violence but to avoid a dangerous regional escalation of the conflict. We must leave even a sliver of possibility that peace can ultimately be found," she added.

Latvia's Prime Minister Evika Silina stressed that the bloc needs to be united on both Ukraine and the Middle East.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala proposed the leadership to "support Israel as much as possible at European level".

"I will emphasise that we must not forget who is the originator of the terror and who started this war," he said.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan criticised EU's position on Middle East crisis. "How many more children must die before the EU Commission can call for a ceasefire? How many more tons of bombs must fall on Gaza for the UNSC to take action? he said.
Mexican authorities gave the first human toll for Hurricane Otis' destruction along the country's Pacific coast Thursday: at least 27 dead and four missing.

Tens of thousands of residents in damaged homes without electricity awaited help more than a day after Otis roared ashore in Acapulco.

Federal Security Secretary Rosa Icela Rodrguez said there were 27 confirmed deaths and four disappearances.

Rodrguez's comments at President Andrs Manuel Lpez Obrador's morning news briefing were echoed minutes later by Guerrero state Gov. Evelyn Salgado.

Lpez Obrador said the destruction was so complete that not a single power line pole remained standing in the impact zone.

Small farmers had their corn crops devastated by Otis' wind and pounding rain, he said. Restoring power to the area was a top priority, he said.

We regret the 27 dead, Lpez Obrador said. The president said Wednesday night he had been told the toll was 18, but it rose early Thursday.

That's what hurts the most, he said of the deaths, noting material losses could be replaced.

Lpez Obrador shared details of only one death: He said one soldier was among the dead after a wall of his home collapsed on him.

The early images and accounts were of extensive devastation, toppled trees and power lines lying in brown floodwaters that in some areas extended for miles.

The resulting destruction delayed a comprehensive response by the government, which was still assessing the damage along the coast, and made residents desperate.

Many of the once sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds and possibly thousands of windows.

There seemed to be a widespread frustration with authorities. While some 10,000 military troops were deployed to the area, they lacked the tools to clean tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets.

Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco early Wednesday, but seemed at a loss as to how to restore power, with downed electricity lines lying in feet of mud and water.

Jakob Sauczuk was staying with a group of friends at a beachfront hotel when Otis hit. We laid down on the floor, and some between beds, Sauczuk said. We prayed a lot.

One of his friends showed reporters photos of the windowless, shattered rooms in the hotel. It looked as if someone had put clothes, beds and furniture in a blender, leaving a shredded mass.

Sauczuk complained that his group was given no warning, nor were offered safer shelter, by the hotel.

Pablo Navarro, an auto parts worker who was lodged in temporary accommodations at a beach front hotel, thought he might die in his 13th story hotel room.

I took shelter in the bathroom, and thankfully the door held, said Navarro. But there were some room where the wind blew out the windows and the doors.

Navarro stood Wednesday outside a discount grocery and household goods store near the hotel zone, as hundreds of people wrestled everything from packs of hot dogs and toilet paper to flat screen TVs out of the muddy store, struggling to push loaded metal shopping carts onto the mud-choked streets outside.

This is out of control," he said.

Isabel de la Cruz, a resident of Acapulco, tried to move a shopping cart loaded with diapers, instant noodles and toilet paper through the mud.

She viewed what she took as a chance to help her family after she lost the tin roof of her home and her family's important documents in the hurricane.

When is the government ever going to look after the common people? she said.

Inside one store, National Guard officers allowed looters to take perishable items like food, but made futile efforts to prevent people from taking appliances, even as people outside loaded refrigerators on top of taxis.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City. The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulco's commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights.

Acapulco's Diamond Zone, an oceanfront area replete with hotels, restaurants and other tourist attractions, looked to be mostly underwater in drone footage that Foro TV posted online Wednesday afternoon, with boulevards and bridges completely hidden by an enormous lake of brown water.

Large buildings had their walls and roofs partially or completely ripped off. Dislodged solar panels, cars and debris littered the lobby of one severely damaged hotel. People wandered up to their waists in water in some areas, while on other less-flooded streets soldiers shovelled rubble and fallen palm fronds from the pavement.

Wednesday night the city plunged into darkness. There was no phone service, but some people were able to use satellite phones loaned by the Red Cross to let family members know they were OK.

Alicia Galindo, a 28-year-old stylist in the central Mexican city of San Luis Potosi, was one of the lucky ones to get such a call. Her parents and brother were staying in Acapulco's Hotel Princess for an international mining conference when Otis hit early Wednesday with 165 mph (270 kmh) winds.

They told her the worst part of the storm was between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. when "windows began to fall, floors broke up, mattresses flew, hallways collapsed, doors fell down ... until everything was gone, she said in a telephone interview with The Associated Press. Fortunately, they escaped unhurt, she said.

However, Galindo had yet to hear from her boyfriend, who was attending the same conference but staying in a different hotel.

On Tuesday, Otis took many by surprise when it rapidly strengthened from a tropical storm to a powerful Category 5 as it tore along the coast.

It's one thing to have a Category 5 hurricane make landfall somewhere when you're expecting it or expecting a strong hurricane, but to have it happen when you're not expecting anything to happen is truly a nightmare, said Brian McNoldy, a hurricane researcher at the University of Miami.

Acapulco is at the foot of steep mountains. Luxury homes and slums alike cover the hillsides with views of the glistening Pacific Ocean. Once drawing Hollywood stars for its nightlife, sport fishing and cliff diving shows, the port has in recent years fallen victim to competing organized crime groups that have sunk the city into violence, driving many international tourists to the Caribbean waters of Cancun and the Riviera Maya or beaches farther down the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca.

Lpez Obrador noted that Otis was a stronger hurricane than Pauline, which hit Acapulco in 1997, destroying swaths of the city and killing more than 300 people.
COLOMBO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka Customs on Thursday announced that they expect to collect taxes worth 925 billion rupees (2.83 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023.

Speaking to the media, Customs Director and media spokesman Seevali Arukgoda said that between 2017 and 2023, Sri Lanka Customs generated a revenue of 742 billion rupees (2.27 billion dollars) per year.

The government had set a revenue target of 1,226 billion rupees (3.75 billion dollars) for 2023, and the difference between the revenue target and the actual achievement has been a concern, Arukgoda said.

He said the International Monetary Fund had made five recommendations for Sri Lanka Customs, and they are trying to increase efficiency. 
After three weeks of chaos since Kevin McCarthy was voted out, the US House of Representatives got a new speaker on Wednesday, a far-right Republican Congressman from Louisiana.

Johnson's ascension comes after a period of uncertainty which saw three other GOP nominees fail to secure a majority. He won 220 to 209 in the House vote and a unanimous support among Republicans.



The position of speaker of the House of Representatives is one of the most powerful political chairs in the country and is third in the line of succession after the US President. In the 435-member House, the Republicans hold a slender majority with 221 seats against 212 of the Democrats.



The House Johnson now leads also will have to certify the winner of the 2025 presidential election.



Just after winning the gavel, 51-year-old Johnson, a lawyer by profession, gave his maiden address, where he declared, "were in the majority right now.



"Weve gone through a little bit of character building, and you know what its produced, more strength, more perseverance, and a lot of hope. And thats what were about to deliver to the American people," he added.



"We're going to dispense with all the usual ceremonies and celebrations that traditionally follow a new speakership because we have no time for either one," Johnson said after the vote. "The American people's business is too urgent in this moment. The hour is late. The crisis is great."



To the Congress, Johnson said his first legislative agenda would be to bring a resolution in support of Israel, a country that was hit by a terrorist attack by Hamas early this month. "We are going to show not only Israel but the entire world that the barbarism of Hamas that we have seen play out on our television screens is wretched and wrong," he said.



"We want our allies around the world to know that this body of lawmakers is reporting again to our duty stations. Let the enemies of freedom around the world hear us loud and clear: The people's house is back in business," Johnson said.



According to the White House, President Joe Biden called Johnson to congratulate him on his election and expressed that he looks forward to working together to find common ground on behalf of the American people.



Backed by Trump

An evangelical Christian, Representative Mike Johnson is a four-term Congressman from the Fourth Congressional District of Louisiana. Staunchly opposed to abortion rights, homosexuality and gay marriage, Johnson also spearheaded the attempt to overturn the 2020 elections in favour of Donald Trump.



Not only he filed a brief in a lawsuit that sought to overturn President Joe Biden's 2020 win, Johnson also echoed conspiracy theories pushed by former President Donald Trump.



He also enjoys Trump's full support. "So, at this time yesterday, nobody was thinking of Mike and then we put out the word and now he's speaker of the House, so I wanted to thank all of the supporters that I have and I want to thank all of the supporters Mike has, and again he will be a great speaker," Trump said after the election of the new speaker.



Challenges galore

The ride wouldn't be smooth for the new speaker. His main challenge at hand would be to avoid a government shutdown by passing the spending bill and approving the USD100 billion request by President Joe Biden to fund the war in Israel and Ukraine.



Johnson, whose candidature was supported by former president Donald Trump, said that he would propose a short-term measure to fund the government through January 15 or April 15. He has put forth a plan to bring up 12 individual spending bills, rather than a single massive piece of legislation to fund executive branch departments. Johnson added that another stopgap measure might be needed to prevent the Senate from "jam[ming] the House with a Christmas omnibus," referring to a consolidated spending bill.



The new speaker has, however, left out the details including what funding levels he would push for on a longer-term deal.



According to Politico, Johnson is unlikely to be booted out by the House Republicans, like McCarthy, for supporting a spending bill to stave off a Nov 17 funding lapse. "The failures of the previous speaker left this speaker in a tough spot, said Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.), one of the eight Republicans who voted to oust McCarthy three weeks ago, told Politico. "Theres a new level of trust with Speaker Johnson that didnt exist previously."


Twenty days since Israel declared war on Gaza after the October 7 Hamas attack, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised that a ground incursion into Gaza was coming soon to wipe out Hamas and free hostages. His statement comes amid uncertainty over the ground war with reports claiming the US was cautioning Israel against urban warfare in Gaza without a solid plan.

In his address to the nation on Wednesday, Netanyahu also seemed to take responsibility for the attack, for the first time, stressing that "everyone will have to give answers including myself" for the major intelligence failure that resulted in the Hamas attack.



"First, though, Israel must win the fight for our existence," said Netanyahu as he promised the ground war. "October 7 was a black day in our history. We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border and the Gaza-envelope area," Netanyahu said in a live primetime address.



"The debacle will be checked to the full," he added. "Everyone will have to give answers on the debacle  including me  but all that will happen only after the war."



Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu interacting with Israeli troops at Gaza border after the October 7 Hamas attack | Reuters

Netanyahu said that as prime minister, he was responsible for securing the future of the country. "And right now, my job is to lead the State of Israel and the people to a crushing victory over our enemies. Now is the time to join forces for one goal: to surge forward to victory with deep faith in the justice of our cause."



He said Israel was preparing for a ground incursion. "I wont specify when, how, how many. I also wont detail the range of considerations, most of which the public is not aware of," he said. "And thats the way it is supposed to be. This is the way, so that we protect our soldiers lives."



"All Hamas members are dead men walking  above and below ground, inside and outside Gaza," he said.



Meanwhile, amid the delayed ground incursion, Russian President Vladimir Putin has warned the conflict could spread beyond the Middle East. He said that it was wrong that innocent women, children and old people in Gaza were being punished for other people's crimes. "Our task today, our main task, is to stop the bloodshed and violence," said Putin in a meeting with Russian religious leaders of different faiths, according to a Kremlin transcript.



"Otherwise, further escalation of the crisis is fraught with grave and extremely dangerous and destructive consequences. And not only for the Middle East region. It could spill over far beyond the borders of the Middle East," he warned.



There are also reports that Israel has agreed to delay invading Gaza, amid concerns that Iran and Iran-backed groups, including Hezbollah, could escalate the conflict by attacking US troops in the Middle East.



Taking this into consideration, Tel Aviv decided to delay the ground war until U.S. air defence systems could be placed in the region to protect American forces, reported The Wall Street Journal.


Hundreds of police were deployed across Maine looking for the suspect, who is on the run after shooting dead 18 people in the city of Lewiston.

Police advised people in the region to stay indoors and schools across the area remained closed on Thursday. State and local police identified the suspect as Robert R. Card, who reportedly had been committed to a mental health facility over the summer.

"We have literally hundreds of police officers working around the state of Maine to investigate this case to locate Mr. Card, who is a person of interest," Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told a press conference.

Meanwhile, Maine governor said Card is considered to be armed and dangerous. "The suspect is still at large. Robert Card is considered armed and dangerous. This is a dark day for Maine...has deployed all available state resources including mental health professionals...18 people killed in Maine shootings and 13 people were wounded," said Maine Governor Janet Mills.

Earlier, reports said 22 people were killed in the shooting incident.

Police also found a white SUV they believe Card drove to the town of Lisbon, about 7 miles (11 km) to the southeast. Sauschuck added that people were asked to remain indoors in both Lewiston and Lisbon as the manhunt continues.

Maine police also told residents in the town of Bowdoin, about 12 miles east of Lewiston, to shelter in place.

Lewiston is a former textile hub and town of 38,000 people in Androscoggin County about 35 miles (56 km) north of Maine's largest city, Portland

US President Joe Biden spoke with the officials and offered the federal government's support, his office said.

Authorities in north-eastern states close to Maine are on alert as well. New Hampshire's homeland security agency said they were monitoring the situation. The New Hampshire-Maine state border is around 50 miles from Lewiston.

Colonel Stavros Mellekas, deputy commissioner of Connecticut's State Police called the incident "deeply disturbing and heart-breaking".

"At this time, our focus will be on protecting communities within our state," read a statement by Mellekas.
The US state of Maine on Wednesday witnessed a tragic gun violence incident that saw at least 22 people dead. Many others were injured as "hundreds of police officers" scrambled to track down "the person of interest."

While initial media reports peg the number of deceased at 22, authorities are yet to confirm it. Lewiston commissioner Michael Sauschuck said at a news conference that the situation was "very fluid". He added that he did not have firm numbers but that once he did, they would be released.



The Lewiston police released three shocking photographs of the 40-year-old "person of interest", identified as Robert Card, seeking public help to nail him. In the images, Card was seen holding what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle. Clad in a brown hoodie jacket and jeans, he was said to be driving a white SUV, which was later found in the town of Lisbon a short distance away.

The shootings reportedly unfolded at several locations, including a local bowling alley and a bar and grille restaurant, law enforcement officials told NBC News. Though a Walmart distribution centre was initially mentioned in the list, officials later said there was no such incident on the property. "There was no shooting on Walmarts property," Walmart representative Joe Pennington said. "The distribution centre was locked down and police searched the facility. They did not find anything and no one was hurt. "



The Lewiston Police Department has issued a shelter-in-place order for the city. Residents are urged to stay inside with their doors locked. "We are encouraging all businesses to lock down and or close while we investigate, the sheriff's office reported. "Law enforcement is currently investigating at two locations right now. Again please stay off the streets and allow law enforcement to diffuse the situation," the alert read.

The FBI has sent aviation units to help in the search for the gunman.

Police respond to an active shooter situation in Lewiston, Maine | AFP

A nurse at Maine Medical told ABC News the shooting unfolded at a bowling alley during its youth night. "Maine Medical is on lockdown right now awaiting Lewiston patients," the nurse said. "They just called for [emergency department] nurses and critical care nurses to come in [and] set up three stretchers to each single critical care bay. They just got their first two patients -- both gunshot wounds to their thighs."

Who is Robert Card?



Card is reportedly a firearms instructor trained by the military and was recently committed to a mental health facility. According to the police intelligence bulletin, Card had been trained as firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve training facility in Maine.



However, he was later committed to a mental health facility for two weeks in the summer of 2023 after reporting hearing voices. Card had also threatened to carry out a shooting at the military training base in Saco, Maine, reported The Associated Press.



Biden in touch with Governor

President Joe Biden has contacted Maine Governor Janet Mills and has been briefed on the situation, a U.S. official said in Washington. The President has offered full federal support in the wake of the attack, the White House said.



If the death toll of 22 is confirmed, the massacre would be the deadliest in the United States since at least August 2019, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 23 in a shooting that prosecutors branded an anti-Hispanic hate crime, according to the Gun Violence Archive.


Albert Einstein in 1921. Einstein, the brilliant mathematician and scientific theorist, lived briefly in Watch Hill when he first migrated to the United States. (Ferdinand Schmutzer)




A recent protest organized by New York University (NYU) students in Manhattan took a disturbing turn as signs with anti-Semitic messages were displayed, marking the latest instance of rising hatred towards Jews and Israel in New York.

The protest, which took place in Washington Square Park, saw dozens of Gen Z demonstrators waving pride flags and wearing kaffiyehs while demanding freedom for Palestine and the divestment of Israels government.

One young woman held up a pink sign reading Keep the world clean with an illustration of the Star of David inside a trash can. Another protester held a similar sign bearing the same message.

The demonstration was organized by Ryna Workman, a law student known for her previous statements referring to Hamas attack on Israel as necessary. Workman uses the pronouncs they/them, and recently had an offer to join a prominent international law firm rescinded over her sickening pro-terror statements.

NYU spokesman John Beckman responded to the protest, saying, These signs are anti-Semitic, repugnant, and a disgrace. We dont know the identity of the people pictured, but we take this seriously and will be looking into it. He emphasized that anti-Semitism violates the universitys rules, and violators may be subject to university conduct proceedings.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Russias military conducted a simulated nuclear strike in a drill Wednesday overseen by President Vladimir Putin, hours after the upper house of parliament voted to rescind the countrys ratification of a global nuclear test ban.

The bill to end ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, approved in the lower house last week, will now be sent to Putin for final approval. Putin has said that revoking Russias 2000 ratification would mirror the stance of the U.S., which signed but did not ratify the nuclear test ban.

State television showed Putin directing the exercise via video call with top military officials.

Russias Minister of Defense Sergei Shoigu said the purpose of the drills is to practice dealing a massive nuclear strike with strategic offensive forces in response to a nuclear strike by the enemy.

While similar drills are held every autumn, Shoigus pointed comments came amid soaring tensions between Russia and the West over the fighting in Ukraine.

The test ban treaty, adopted in 1996, bans all nuclear explosions anywhere in the world, but the treaty was never fully implemented. In addition to the U.S., it is yet to be ratified by China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, Israel, Iran and Egypt.

There are widespread concerns that Russia could move to resume nuclear tests to try to discourage the West from continuing to offer military support to Ukraine. Many Russian hawks have spoken in favor of a resumption of the tests.

Putin has noted that while some experts have argued that its necessary to conduct nuclear tests, he hasnt yet formed an opinion on the issue.

Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said earlier this month that Moscow will continue to respect the ban and will only resume nuclear tests if Washington does it first.

Ryabkov said Wednesday that the Russian Foreign Ministry had received U.S. proposals to resume a dialogue on strategic stability and arms control issues, but noted that Moscow doesnt consider it possible in the current political environment.

We arent ready for it because the return to a dialogue on strategic stability  as it was conducted in the past is impossible until the U.S. revises its deeply hostile policy course in relation to Russia, Ryabkov told reporters in comments carried by Russian news agencies.

(AP)




Democratic Rep. Jamaal Bowman was charged Wednesday with a misdemeanor for triggering a fire alarm as lawmakers scrambled to pass a funding bill before a government shutdown deadline in September.

He is expected to plead guilty, formally apologize and pay a $1,000 fine. The false fire alarm charge would then be dropped if he successfully completes 3 months of probation.

The alarm forced the evacuation of a House office building for over an hour. The New York lawmaker has acknowledged pulling the alarm and said it was a mistake. He was in a rush to go to vote, tried to go through a door that was unexpectedly closed and wrongly thought pulling the fire alarm lever would help him open it, he said.

At the time of the evacuation, House Democrats were working to delay a vote on a funding bill to keep federal agencies open. They had said they needed time to review a bill that Republicans abruptly released to avoid a shutdown. The funding package was ultimately approved with most Republicans and almost all Democrats, including Bowman, supporting the bill.

Republicans criticized Bowman after the alarm, and on Wednesday introduced a motion to censure him. Rep. Bryan Steil, the chairman of the Committee on House Administration, referred the case to Capitol police. He called Bowmans explanation an excuse.

He pointed out that Bowman passed several police officers after pulling the alarm without alerting them about it. Bowman, for his part, has said he was urgently trying to get to the vote and said Republicans would attempt to distract everyone with the case.

Prosecutors said Bowman was treated like anyone else who violates the law and has agreed to pay the maximum fine, according to a spokesperson for the District of Columbia attorney generals office.

Bowman told police at the time he didnt mean to disrupt any congressional proceeding, according to court documents. He said he didnt immediately tell anyone about the alarm going off because he was in a hurry to vote.

Under an agreement with the D.C. attorney general, the charge will be withdrawn in three months if the congressman provides a formal apology to Capitol police and pays a $1,000 fine.

Bowman said he was grateful for the quick resolution in the case, and looking forward to putting it behind him. I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped, he said.

(AP)




A recent incident in Brooklyns iconic Bridge Park involving the removal of posters depicting Israeli children held by Hamas has garnered significant attention. The individual responsible for tearing down these posters has been identified as Noah Schaffer, a 41-year-old former magician. His father, Eric Schaffer, has taken swift action by suspending him from his position at his own company.

The incident occurred over the weekend when Noah and his wife, Kelly, were observed removing the posters, and they faced criticism from a Jewish woman at the scene.

In a statement posted on social media, StopAntisemitism identified the couple, mentioning that Kelly Schaffer had previous legal troubles and currently works as a social worker for Urban Dove NY. Noah was employed as a strategist at Human Factors International  a company owned by his father.

Eric Schaffer, who is Jewish, informed his companys staff about the situation via email, insisting that his son is not an antisemite nor a supporter of Hamas. The elder Schaffer emphasized that the company, Human Factors International, does not condone his sons actions and has placed him on unpaid leave for the next four months. During this time, Noah is expected to learn more about his Jewish family history, reflect on his actions, and make amends.

Before his position at Human Factors International, Noah Schaffer worked as a magician at A Taste of Magic, a dinner show on the Upper West Side.

Kelly Schaffers professional background includes working as a social worker at Urban Dove, a New York City school program for youths. She gained attention after being listed among protesters on the Antifa Watch website due to her arrest during a protest against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in New Jersey.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
NEW DELHI, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- At least 13 people were killed on Thursday after a car rammed into a stationary tanker truck in India's southwestern state of Karnataka, police said.

The accident took place on the Bangalore-Hyderabad national highway in Chikkaballapur district, about 62 km north of Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka.

"Today a speeding car carrying 13 people collided with a stationary tanker truck in Chikkaballapur, killing 12 people on the spot ... and injuring one, who later on succumbed in the hospital," a police official said.

According to the police, the ill-fated car carrying passengers was on its way to Bengaluru from Anantapur district of neighboring Andhra Pradesh state.

Preliminary investigations carried out by the police suggest fog and low visibility might have caused the accident.

Around 150,000 people are killed every year in about half a million road crashes across India, officials said.

The Indian government has set a target to reduce road accident deaths by 50 percent by 2024. 




As New York City grapples with an unrelenting surge of migrants seeking asylum, city officials are considering innovative solutions, including the distribution of small tents to newcomers and the establishment of campsite-style shelters in public parks, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Mayor Eric Adams and other city officials have been engaged in talks about the potential creation of encampments and have been actively searching for suitable large outdoor spaces to address the ongoing crisis.

These developments follow closely on the heels of a warning issued by Mayor Adams, who said that the city was rapidly running out of shelter space for the 65,000 people currently under its care.

While the city has already set up Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Center pop-up sites, including locations at Randalls Island and Creedmoor Psychiatric Center in Queens, the proposed new plan envisions campsite-style shelters in parks and other outdoor areas. =

During a press conference on Tuesday, Mayor Adams did not specifically mention the possibility of distributing tents to newly arrived migrants but emphasized his commitment to finding a humane solution for the overburdened shelter system.

We are out of room, and its not if people will be sleeping on the streets, its when. We are at full capacity, Mayor Adams remarked, adding, Everything is on the table, in response to questions about the use of public parks for migrant housing.

Furthermore, Mayor Adams acknowledged that his administration had engaged in discussions with officials from other countries to learn from their experiences in managing tent encampments.

The chief of staff and I were on a call yesterday with those who do this in other countries to figure out what we can do to manage this the best way possible, Mayor Adams disclosed.

When asked whether the city intended to set up more tent city shelters or encampments, Mayor Adams remained circumspect. Were finding out what our options are. Believe it or not, tents are costly. Everything is costly, he commented.

However, the proposed plan has faced criticism from organizations like the Legal Aid Society and the Coalition for the Homeless. They expressed concerns that distributing tents ahead of winter could endanger lives and criticized any potential rollback of the Right to Shelter mandate, which requires the city to provide housing for anyone who seeks it.

People freezing to death on the streets is the exact nightmare that the Right to Shelter was designed to prevent, the statement from these organizations read. Make no mistake, when the Mayor and Governor talk about rolling back the Right to Shelter, this is what they mean: relegating desperate people  long-time New Yorkers and newcomers alike  to sleeping on sidewalks, in parks, and in other public spaces across the city, exposed to the elements.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said Thursday hes arranged to send drones, weapons, and ammunition to Israel as it prepares for an incursion of Gaza in response to Hamas attack. Its the latest official response DeSantis has taken to back Israel as he competes in the 2024 Republican primary.

Florida has sent cargo planes with healthcare supplies, drones, body armor, and helmets, said Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governors office. The state also worked with private groups to supply weapons and ammunition at the request of Israels consul general in Miami, Redfern said.

Redfern would not disclose the type or amount of ammunition and weaponry, referring questions to the consul general, who could not immediately be reached for comment.

DeSantis has often applied his official powers to take actions that coincide with his larger political goals. Florida used state funds to fly migrants from Texas to Democratic-led areas such as Marthas Vineyard. And earlier this week, his administration ordered state universities to disband chapters of a pro-Palestinian student group. Since Hamas Oct. 7 attack, Florida has also run flights for about 700 Americans evacuated from Israel.

DeSantis and other GOP presidential contenders have largely lined up behind Israel and accused President Joe Biden of not doing enough to support the Israelis. DeSantis has swiped at former President Donald Trump, the heavy front-runner in the 2024 primary, and former South Carolina governor and United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley over Israel as well.

Its unclear whether DeSantis coordinated shipments of weapons with the Biden administration. The Commerce Department regulates the shipment abroad of many types of U.S. weapons and technology.

The White Houses National Security Council and Commerce Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

(AP)




President Joe Biden on Wednesday urged world leaders to collaborate in pursuit of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. His statement comes at a crucial juncture as Israels ongoing conflict with Hamas reshapes the region and raises questions about the future of Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip.

It marks a sharp turn for Biden, who had initially refrained from initiating U.S.-mediated negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians aimed at achieving a two-state solution since taking office. Instead, his administration had adopted a strategy focused on managing the conflict by supporting security cooperation between Israel and the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, President Biden emphasized that there is no possibility of returning to the status quo that existed prior to Hamass unprecedented attacks on Israel, which began on Simchas Torah.

In his remarks preceding a press conference with Australias Prime Minister at the White House, President Biden stated, That means ensuring Hamas can no longer terrorize Israel and use Palestinian civilians as human shields. He went on to underscore the need for a comprehensive vision for the region beyond the current crisis, emphasizing that all parties, including Israelis, Palestinians, regional partners, and global leaders, must make a concentrated effort to pave the way for peace.

While Israel has pledged to eliminate Hamas, the question of who will govern the Gaza Strip, home to over 2 million Palestinians, remains unanswered. In 2007, Hamas took full control of the Strip after forcibly ousting the Palestinian Authority in a violent coup.

Biden disclosed that hes had discussions with leaders from Jordan, Egypt, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, and Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, all aimed at ensuring a better future in the region.

President Biden speculated that Hamas launched its attacks, which may have been in the planning stages for months or even years, to disrupt the progress made toward normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia. He acknowledged that his instinct led him to believe that this was a significant factor behind the timing of Hamass attacks.

Im convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they didI have no proof of this, just my instinct tells meis because of the progress were making towards regional integration for Israel, and regional integration overall, and we cant leave that work behind, President Biden stated.

Building on the Trump-era Abraham Accords, which fostered improved relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, President Biden emphasized the importance of advancing regional integration while ensuring that the aspirations of the Palestinian people are considered as part of this broader future.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)




Locals in the Hamadan province of Iran desecrated the kevarim of Mordechai HaTzaddik and Esther HaMalka and burned Israeli flags at the site in the wake of the war between Israel and Gaza, BChadrei Chareidim reported.

They also sent a letter to the Iranian Culture Ministry demanding that the site be converted into a museum of the crimes of the Zionist regime and that a public relations office of the Palestinian resistance forces be established there.

The letter falsely claimed that the request was made with the consent of the local Jews.

Dr. Homayoun Sameyah, a Jewish member of the Iranian parliament, responded by sending a letter to the Iranian authorities, asking for its protection.

Sources in the community said that Iranian Jews are feeling a lot of stress and fear in the wake of the war and the situation is not good.

They added that shuls in Iran are now functioning on a limited basis only in order to avoid unnecessary attention.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)




In a precision bombing guided by meticulous intelligence, the IDF successfully targeted and killed Shadi Barud, the deputy head of Hamass intelligence department. This animal orchestrated the Simchas Torah massacre. The operation, conducted in cooperation with military intelligence and the Shin Bet, marks a significant blow to the leadership of the Palestinian terror organization.

Shadi Barud, who formerly served as the head of the attack department at the Hamas operations headquarters, was a key figure in orchestrating the deadly raid on southern Israel that occurred on Simchas Torah / October 7th. This attack was previously planned in conjunction with Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

Barud was also heavily involved in planning various Hamas terrorist attacks against Israeli citizens during his tenure as a battalion commander in the Khan Yunis.

Following his time as a battalion commander, Barud assumed several high-ranking positions within Hamass military intelligence apparatus. Notably, he was responsible for overseeing the organizations information security and played a vital role in managing intelligence relations to further Hamass terrorist objectives.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
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FTX crypto-currency exchange founder Sam Bankman-Fried plans to testify in his own defence at his criminal fraud trial in New York.

His attorney Mark Cohen said his client would take the witness stand, potentially as early as today - marking a high-stakes bid to convince a jury of his innocence. He faces life in prison if he is found guilty.

Bankman-Fried has pleaded not guilty to charges he looted billions of dollars of FTX customer funds to plug losses at Alameda Research

FTX collapsed in November last year in the biggest scandal yet to engulf the crypto industry.

Bankman-Fried, 31, has pleaded not guilty to charges he looted billions of dollars of FTX customer funds to plug losses at his Alameda Research hedge fund, make speculative venture investments, and donate more than $100m to US political candidates and campaigns. Three former members of his inner circle at FTX and Alameda have testified that he directed them to commit fraud.

Bankman-Fried has acknowledged mistakes at FTX and Alameda, but said he never knowingly committed fraud. Experts said taking the stand will give him an opportunity to win jurors over after witnesses painted an unflattering portrait of him.

But testifying comes with significant risks for defendants such as Bankman-Fried.

It will expose him to probing crossexamination by prosecutors who would come armed with documents, messages and testimony from cooperating witnesses that they can use to attack his credibility.
Dundee Precious Metals (OTCMKTS:DPMLF  Get Free Report) and Indra Sistemas (OTCMKTS:ISMAY  Get Free Report) are both basic materials companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, risk, dividends, earnings, valuation, profitability and analyst recommendations.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of recent recommendations and price targets for Dundee Precious Metals and Indra Sistemas, as reported by MarketBeat.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Dundee Precious Metals 0 0 1 0 3.00 Indra Sistemas 0 0 0 0 N/A

Dundee Precious Metals currently has a consensus target price of $11.38, indicating a potential upside of 79.64%. Given Dundee Precious Metals higher probable upside, equities analysts plainly believe Dundee Precious Metals is more favorable than Indra Sistemas.

Dividends

Profitability

Dundee Precious Metals pays an annual dividend of $0.16 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.5%. Indra Sistemas pays an annual dividend of $0.09 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. Dundee Precious Metals pays out 35.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Indra Sistemas pays out 17.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

This table compares Dundee Precious Metals and Indra Sistemas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Dundee Precious Metals 13.87% 16.47% 14.26% Indra Sistemas 4.80% 18.91% 4.21%

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Dundee Precious Metals and Indra Sistemas gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Dundee Precious Metals $569.79 million 2.04 $35.92 million $0.45 14.07 Indra Sistemas $4.06 billion 0.60 $181.11 million $0.53 13.02

Indra Sistemas has higher revenue and earnings than Dundee Precious Metals. Indra Sistemas is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Dundee Precious Metals, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

0.1% of Dundee Precious Metals shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of Dundee Precious Metals shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.3% of Indra Sistemas shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Risk and Volatility

Dundee Precious Metals has a beta of 0.66, indicating that its stock price is 34% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Indra Sistemas has a beta of 1, indicating that its stock price has a similar volatility profile to the S&P 500.

Summary

Dundee Precious Metals beats Indra Sistemas on 8 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Dundee Precious Metals

(Get Free Report)

Dundee Precious Metals Inc., a gold mining company, engages in the acquisition of mineral properties; and exploration, development, mining, and processing of precious metals. It owns and operates a gold, copper, and silver mine located east of Sofia, Bulgaria; a gold mine located in south eastern Bulgaria, near the town of Krumovgrad; and a custom smelter located in Tsumeb, Namibia. The company also holds interests in exploration and development properties in Ecuador, Serbia, and Canada. Dundee Precious Metals Inc. was founded in 1983 and is based in Toronto, Canada.

About Indra Sistemas

(Get Free Report)

Indra Sistemas, S.A. operates as a technology and consulting company worldwide. It designs, develops, produces, integrates, operates, maintains, repairs, and markets systems, solutions, and services based on the use of information technologies; computing, electronics, and communications. The company researches, engineers, designs, develops, manufactures, markets, installs, maintains, and repairs devices, equipment, and systems for data communication, encryption systems, encryption, beacon, and command and control center, as well as architectural and engineering technical services. In addition, it designs, develops, produces, and maintains navigation, landing assistance systems, and air traffic control systems; outsources business processes; delivers document management services and mortgage management; and manages digitalization and data capture. Further, the company provides business consulting, technology and solutions consulting services. Sistemas, S.A. was founded in 1921 and is based in Alcobendas, Spain.

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UWM Holdings Co. (NYSE:UWMC  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Hold by the ten research firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat.com reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and two have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 12-month price objective among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $5.70.

A number of equities analysts recently commented on UWMC shares. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their price target on UWM from $6.75 to $5.50 in a research note on Monday, October 2nd. Wedbush boosted their price target on shares of UWM from $5.00 to $6.50 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, August 10th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered their price target on shares of UWM from $6.50 to $5.50 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 3rd. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of UWM from $5.00 to $6.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Thursday, August 10th. Finally, JMP Securities lowered shares of UWM from an outperform rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 8th.

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Get Our Latest Analysis on UWMC

UWM Price Performance

UWMC stock opened at $4.79 on Thursday. UWM has a 52-week low of $3.00 and a 52-week high of $6.98. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $5.26 and its 200-day simple moving average is $5.52. The company has a quick ratio of 1.79, a current ratio of 1.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $445.53 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 95.72 and a beta of 1.57.

UWM (NYSE:UWMC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 9th. The company reported $0.11 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.05 by $0.06. UWM had a return on equity of 14.77% and a net margin of 0.41%. The company had revenue of $587.52 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $509.01 million. Equities research analysts expect that UWM will post 0.18 EPS for the current year.

UWM Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 11th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, September 20th were given a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 8.36%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 19th. UWMs dividend payout ratio is currently 800.16%.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Robert Verdun acquired 40,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 13th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $5.20 per share, with a total value of $208,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 204,725 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,064,570. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. 94.20% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of UWM

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Parallel Advisors LLC raised its holdings in UWM by 807.1% in the first quarter. Parallel Advisors LLC now owns 6,613 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after purchasing an additional 5,884 shares during the period. International Assets Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of UWM during the third quarter worth $32,000. Point72 Hong Kong Ltd bought a new position in UWM in the second quarter valued at $26,000. Captrust Financial Advisors grew its position in UWM by 220.9% in the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 9,589 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 6,601 shares in the last quarter. Finally, First Republic Investment Management Inc. bought a new position in UWM in the second quarter valued at $35,000. 44.44% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

About UWM

(Get Free Report

UWM Holdings Corporation engages in the residential mortgage lending business in the United States. The company originates mortgage loans through wholesale channel. It originates primarily conforming and government loans. UWM Holdings Corporation was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Pontiac, Michigan.

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People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

GAZA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday.

So far, 18,484 Palestinians have been injured since the fighting broke out, the ministry said in a statement.

Israel has launched massive airstrikes and limited ground operations against Gaza in retaliation for a surprise attack by Gaza-ruling Hamas militants on Israeli military targets and towns on Oct. 7, which has killed at least 1,400 people in Israel. 

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

People inspect the damages after Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

People inspect the damages after Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Khaled Omar/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People inspect the damages after Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)

(231026) -- KHAN YOUNIS, Oct. 26, 2023 (Xinhua) -- People search for survivors among the rubble of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis, on Oct. 26, 2023. The death toll of Palestinians from Israeli military strikes on the Gaza Strip has risen to 7,028, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Thursday. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua)
Toyota Industries Co. (OTCMKTS:TYIDY  Get Free Report) was the target of a large drop in short interest in the month of October. As of October 15th, there was short interest totalling 400 shares, a drop of 82.6% from the September 30th total of 2,300 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 14,300 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is presently 0.0 days.

Toyota Industries Price Performance

Shares of TYIDY opened at $74.75 on Thursday. Toyota Industries has a 52 week low of $49.68 and a 52 week high of $86.09. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $74.64 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $68.64.

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About Toyota Industries

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Further Reading

Toyota Industries Corporation manufactures and sells textile machinery, materials handling equipment, automobiles, and automobile parts in Japan and internationally. The company operates through Automobile, Materials Handling Equipment, and Textile Machinery segments. It provides vehicles; gasoline and diesel engines for automobiles and industrial equipment; turbochargers and foundry parts; car air-conditioning compressors; car electronics comprising DC-DC converters, rear inverters, on-board chargers, DC-AC inverters, and charging and discharging systems; batteries; and stamping dies, including automotive and lift truck stamping dies.

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Barclays (NYSE:BCS) was downgraded by research analysts at Bank of America from a neutral rating to an underperform rating in a report issued on Thursday, Marketbeat.com reports.

BCS has been the subject of a number of other research reports. BNP Paribas downgraded Barclays from an outperform rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 8th. Morgan Stanley upgraded Barclays from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 26th. BCS dropped their price objective on Barclays from GBX 210 ($2.56) to GBX 190 ($2.31) in a research note on Thursday, July 6th. Finally, StockNews.com upgraded shares of Barclays from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 13th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and five have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $190.00.

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Barclays Price Performance

Institutional Trading of Barclays

Shares of NYSE BCS opened at $6.43 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 6.39, a current ratio of 1.36 and a quick ratio of 1.36. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $7.44 and a 200-day moving average price of $7.68. The stock has a market capitalization of $24.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 3.76, a P/E/G ratio of 0.89 and a beta of 1.35. Barclays has a 1 year low of $6.23 and a 1 year high of $9.44.

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP grew its stake in Barclays by 19.7% in the 2nd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 17,972,423 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $141,183,000 after purchasing an additional 2,960,114 shares during the period. Lazard Asset Management LLC grew its position in Barclays by 5.1% during the first quarter. Lazard Asset Management LLC now owns 8,520,967 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $67,315,000 after buying an additional 412,160 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in Barclays by 22.5% during the second quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 6,555,297 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $51,525,000 after buying an additional 1,206,068 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James & Associates raised its position in Barclays by 2.4% in the first quarter. Raymond James & Associates now owns 4,958,314 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,650,000 after acquiring an additional 116,430 shares during the period. Finally, Jane Street Group LLC boosted its stake in Barclays by 33,931.2% in the first quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 4,253,901 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $30,586,000 after acquiring an additional 4,241,401 shares during the last quarter. 3.39% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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.

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Plastiques du Val de Loire (EPA:PVL  Get Free Report) was down 3.6% on Tuesday . The company traded as low as 2.36 ($2.51) and last traded at 2.41 ($2.56). Approximately 11,192 shares were traded during mid-day trading, The stock had previously closed at 2.50 ($2.66).

Plastiques du Val de Loire Stock Down 2.1 %

The business has a 50 day simple moving average of 2.72 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of 2.98.

Plastiques du Val de Loire Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Plastiques du Val de Loire engages in the production and sale of plastic parts in France, North America, and internationally. The company offers interior equipment for vehicles, such as cockpits, decoration products, and mechanisms; exterior appearance parts; technical front facades; seat parts; lighting and signaling products; and under the hood parts.

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Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund grew its holdings in shares of Brown & Brown, Inc. (NYSE:BRO  Free Report) by 6.0% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 102,643 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 5,800 shares during the period. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Brown & Brown were worth $7,066,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of BRO. Kentucky Retirement Systems boosted its stake in Brown & Brown by 0.8% during the 1st quarter. Kentucky Retirement Systems now owns 18,585 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,067,000 after purchasing an additional 153 shares in the last quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its holdings in Brown & Brown by 3.0% during the second quarter. Tokio Marine Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 5,416 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $373,000 after acquiring an additional 156 shares during the period. Fifth Third Bancorp raised its position in Brown & Brown by 3.3% in the second quarter. Fifth Third Bancorp now owns 4,876 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $336,000 after acquiring an additional 157 shares in the last quarter. Advisor Partners II LLC lifted its holdings in Brown & Brown by 1.3% in the 1st quarter. Advisor Partners II LLC now owns 11,845 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $680,000 after acquiring an additional 157 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Stephens Inc. AR boosted its position in shares of Brown & Brown by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Stephens Inc. AR now owns 25,801 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,481,000 after purchasing an additional 172 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 70.33% of the companys stock.

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Brown & Brown Price Performance

Shares of BRO opened at $69.02 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 1.85 and a quick ratio of 2.78. The company has a market capitalization of $19.57 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 26.24 and a beta of 0.76. The businesss 50-day moving average is $71.60 and its 200-day moving average is $68.02. Brown & Brown, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $52.82 and a fifty-two week high of $74.57.

Brown & Brown Increases Dividend

Brown & Brown ( NYSE:BRO Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 23rd. The financial services provider reported $0.71 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.62 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $1.07 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.04 billion. Brown & Brown had a net margin of 18.08% and a return on equity of 15.72%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 15.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.50 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Brown & Brown, Inc. will post 2.65 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 1st will be given a dividend of $0.13 per share. This is a boost from Brown & Browns previous quarterly dividend of $0.12. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, October 31st. This represents a $0.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.75%. Brown & Browns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.49%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts recently commented on the stock. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered shares of Brown & Brown from an outperform rating to a market perform rating and increased their target price for the company from $73.00 to $76.00 in a research note on Tuesday, August 1st. StockNews.com began coverage on Brown & Brown in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. Citigroup boosted their target price on Brown & Brown from $81.00 to $83.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 19th. Raymond James increased their price target on Brown & Brown from $70.00 to $76.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 26th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their price objective on shares of Brown & Brown from $62.00 to $70.00 in a research note on Wednesday, July 26th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and five have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $74.60.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on BRO

Brown & Brown Company Profile

(Free Report)

Brown & Brown, Inc markets and sells insurance products and services in the United States, Canada, Ireland, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Retail, National Programs, Wholesale Brokerage, and Services. The Retail segment provides property and casualty, employee benefits insurance products, personal insurance products, specialties insurance products, risk management strategies, loss control survey and analysis, consultancy, and claims processing services.

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Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund lowered its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE:BR  Free Report) by 59.6% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 38,142 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 56,272 shares during the period. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions were worth $6,317,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. Yousif Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 1.5% in the 2nd quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 17,372 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $2,877,000 after purchasing an additional 261 shares during the period. Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in Broadridge Financial Solutions in the 2nd quarter valued at about $12,158,000. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. boosted its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 3.9% in the 2nd quarter. Stock Yards Bank & Trust Co. now owns 2,385 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $395,000 after purchasing an additional 89 shares during the period. Handelsbanken Fonder AB boosted its holdings in Broadridge Financial Solutions by 4.0% in the 2nd quarter. Handelsbanken Fonder AB now owns 55,961 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $9,269,000 after purchasing an additional 2,138 shares during the period. Finally, Patron Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $212,000. Institutional investors own 89.36% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Broadridge Financial Solutions

In other Broadridge Financial Solutions news, SVP Robert Schifellite sold 26,109 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $179.27, for a total value of $4,680,560.43. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 48,082 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,619,660.14. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. In other Broadridge Financial Solutions news, SVP Robert Schifellite sold 26,109 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $179.27, for a total value of $4,680,560.43. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 48,082 shares in the company, valued at approximately $8,619,660.14. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, President Christopher John Perry sold 10,118 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $180.57, for a total transaction of $1,827,007.26. Following the completion of the transaction, the president now owns 69,365 shares of the companys stock, valued at $12,525,238.05. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last ninety days, insiders sold 191,035 shares of company stock worth $34,423,247. 1.60% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Broadridge Financial Solutions Price Performance

BR stock opened at $169.99 on Thursday. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $182.00 and a 200 day simple moving average of $166.64. The stock has a market cap of $20.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 32.13 and a beta of 0.98. Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. has a 1 year low of $131.35 and a 1 year high of $189.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 0.58 and a quick ratio of 0.58.

Broadridge Financial Solutions (NYSE:BR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, August 8th. The business services provider reported $3.21 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.10 by $0.11. The business had revenue of $1.84 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.87 billion. Broadridge Financial Solutions had a net margin of 10.40% and a return on equity of 42.09%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 6.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company earned $2.65 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. will post 7.63 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Broadridge Financial Solutions Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 5th. Shareholders of record on Friday, September 15th were given a $0.80 dividend. This is a boost from Broadridge Financial Solutionss previous quarterly dividend of $0.73. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.88%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 14th. Broadridge Financial Solutionss dividend payout ratio is 60.49%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

BR has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their price target on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $178.00 to $192.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, August 22nd. DA Davidson upped their price target on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $160.00 to $164.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $165.00 to $175.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Raymond James upped their price target on shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from $183.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, Wolfe Research raised shares of Broadridge Financial Solutions from an underperform rating to a peer perform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 17th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Broadridge Financial Solutions has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $173.67.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on Broadridge Financial Solutions

About Broadridge Financial Solutions

(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.

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Picton Mahoney Asset Management increased its stake in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Corp. (NYSE:LOCC  Free Report) by 63.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 327,086 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 127,088 shares during the period. Picton Mahoney Asset Management owned approximately 1.27% of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition worth $3,352,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Deltec Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $1,777,000. Fort Baker Capital Management LP raised its position in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition by 2.3% in the 1st quarter. Fort Baker Capital Management LP now owns 1,034,253 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,446,000 after purchasing an additional 22,885 shares in the last quarter. First Trust Capital Management L.P. acquired a new position in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $2,111,000. Exos TFP Holdings LLC raised its position in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition by 217.9% in the 1st quarter. Exos TFP Holdings LLC now owns 396,878 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,008,000 after purchasing an additional 272,044 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS raised its position in shares of Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition by 100.0% in the 1st quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 100,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,010,000 after purchasing an additional 50,000 shares in the last quarter. 74.82% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Stock Up 0.1 %

Shares of LOCC opened at $10.37 on Thursday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $10.35 and its two-hundred day moving average is $10.27. Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Corp. has a 52-week low of $9.75 and a 52-week high of $10.90.

Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Profile

Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Corp. intends to effect a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses. Live Oak Crestview Climate Acquisition Corp. was incorporated in 2021 and is based in Memphis, Tennessee.

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AMG National Trust Bank decreased its stake in shares of Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Free Report) by 5.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 30,223 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,576 shares during the quarter. AMG National Trust Banks holdings in Novartis were worth $3,050,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. DT Investment Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Novartis during the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Novartis during the 4th quarter worth approximately $27,000. Financial Management Professionals Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Novartis by 750.0% during the 2nd quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 289 shares of the companys stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 255 shares during the period. ZRC Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Novartis during the 1st quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Syverson Strege & Co bought a new position in shares of Novartis during the 1st quarter worth approximately $34,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 7.00% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have recently commented on NVS. StockNews.com began coverage on Novartis in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a strong-buy rating for the company. HSBC began coverage on Novartis in a research note on Friday, July 14th. They set a buy rating for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley upgraded Novartis from an underweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday, September 25th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, three have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $82.33.

Novartis Stock Performance

NVS opened at $95.15 on Thursday. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $99.72 and a 200 day simple moving average of $100.44. The company has a market capitalization of $201.68 billion, a PE ratio of 25.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 0.53. 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 $79.38 and a 1 year high of $105.61.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, October 23rd. The company reported $1.74 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.70 by $0.04. The firm had revenue of $11.78 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.05 billion. Novartis had a return on equity of 26.16% and a net margin of 15.35%. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.58 EPS. Research analysts expect that Novartis AG will post 6.71 EPS for the current year.

Novartis Profile

(Free Report)

Novartis AG researches, develops, manufactures, and markets healthcare products in Switzerland and internationally. The company offers prescription medicines for patients and physicians. It focuses on therapeutic areas, such as cardiovascular, renal and metabolic, immunology, neuroscience, and oncology, as well as ophthalmology and hematology.

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Shufro Rose & Co. LLC lowered its stake in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund, Inc. (NYSE:RQI  Free Report) by 5.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 36,800 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 2,000 shares during the period. Shufro Rose & Co. LLCs holdings in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund were worth $427,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC increased its stake in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund by 29.2% in the 1st quarter. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 3,746 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $62,000 after purchasing an additional 846 shares during the period. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. raised its holdings in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 153,463 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,780,000 after buying an additional 955 shares during the last quarter. First Republic Investment Management Inc. boosted its position in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund by 4.4% during the 4th quarter. First Republic Investment Management Inc. now owns 24,233 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $279,000 after buying an additional 1,025 shares during the period. Raymond James Trust N.A. grew its holdings in Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund by 3.8% in the 1st quarter. Raymond James Trust N.A. now owns 28,475 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $340,000 after acquiring an additional 1,030 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Truist Financial Corp increased its position in shares of Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund by 8.0% in the first quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 14,220 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $170,000 after acquiring an additional 1,051 shares during the period.

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Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund Stock Performance

Shares of Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund stock traded up $0.07 during trading on Thursday, reaching $9.25. 201,836 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 366,156. Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund, Inc. has a 1 year low of $9.17 and a 1 year high of $14.10. The stocks fifty day moving average is $10.55 and its 200 day moving average is $11.18.

Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund Announces Dividend

Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund Profile

The firm also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 29th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 13th will be issued a $0.08 dividend. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a yield of 10.38%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 12th.

(Free Report)

Cohen & Steers Quality Income Realty Fund, Inc is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched by Cohen & Steers, Inc The fund is managed by Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc It invests in the public equity markets of the United States. The fund seeks to invest in stocks of companies operating in the real estate sector, including real estate investment trusts.

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Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund boosted its position in shares of Eaton Co. plc (NYSE:ETN  Free Report) by 412.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 51,692 shares of the industrial products companys stock after buying an additional 41,599 shares during the quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Funds holdings in Eaton were worth $10,395,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Marquette Asset Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of Eaton in the 2nd quarter valued at about $28,000. Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc purchased a new stake in shares of Eaton in the second quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. purchased a new position in shares of Eaton during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Tucker Asset Management LLC acquired a new stake in Eaton in the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, KB Financial Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Eaton in the 1st quarter worth $44,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 81.02% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Wolfe Research lowered shares of Eaton from an outperform rating to a peer perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 11th. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their target price on Eaton from $228.00 to $210.00 in a report on Monday, October 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised Eaton from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and set a $230.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 6th. Mizuho lifted their target price on shares of Eaton from $210.00 to $250.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 2nd. Finally, HSBC increased their price objective on shares of Eaton from $161.00 to $210.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, August 31st. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $215.50.

Eaton Trading Up 1.3 %

ETN traded up $2.63 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $197.86. The companys stock had a trading volume of 220,609 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,051,215. The businesss 50-day moving average is $216.68 and its 200-day moving average is $198.37. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49, a current ratio of 1.53 and a quick ratio of 0.99. The stock has a market cap of $78.95 billion, a PE ratio of 28.84, a P/E/G ratio of 2.00 and a beta of 1.12. Eaton Co. plc has a fifty-two week low of $146.23 and a fifty-two week high of $240.44.

Eaton (NYSE:ETN  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The industrial products company reported $2.21 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.11 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $5.87 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.76 billion. Eaton had a return on equity of 19.06% and a net margin of 12.29%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 12.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.87 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Eaton Co. plc will post 8.81 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eaton Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 24th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 6th will be issued a $0.86 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 3rd. This represents a $3.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.74%. Eatons dividend payout ratio is currently 50.81%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Eaton news, insider Craig Arnold sold 100,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $219.45, for a total value of $21,945,000.00. Following the sale, the insider now owns 516,875 shares of the companys stock, valued at $113,428,218.75. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In related news, insider Craig Arnold sold 100,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $219.45, for a total transaction of $21,945,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider now directly owns 516,875 shares in the company, valued at approximately $113,428,218.75. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Heath B. Monesmith sold 9,831 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $221.12, for a total transaction of $2,173,830.72. Following the sale, the insider now owns 57,217 shares in the company, valued at $12,651,823.04. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last quarter, insiders sold 116,650 shares of company stock valued at $25,686,391. Company insiders own 0.53% of the companys stock.

About Eaton

(Free Report)

Eaton Corporation plc operates as a power management company worldwide. The company's Electrical Americas and Electrical Global segment provides electrical components, industrial components, power distribution and assemblies, residential products, single and three phase power quality and connectivity products, wiring devices, circuit protection products, utility power distribution products, power reliability equipment, and services, as well as hazardous duty electrical equipment, emergency lighting, fire detection, explosion-proof instrumentation, and structural support systems.

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Bristlecone Advisors LLC decreased its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust (NYSEARCA:IAU  Free Report) by 3.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 32,734 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after selling 1,229 shares during the quarter. Bristlecone Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares Gold Trust were worth $1,191,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of IAU. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich increased its holdings in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 72,670.4% in the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 689,886,989 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $25,104,988,000 after acquiring an additional 688,938,957 shares in the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of iShares Gold Trust by 413,629.4% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 28,998,294 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,003,051,000 after purchasing an additional 28,991,285 shares during the period. Empower Advisory Group LLC bought a new stake in iShares Gold Trust during the 1st quarter worth approximately $520,181,000. Gateway Advisory LLC raised its holdings in iShares Gold Trust by 5,751.9% during the 1st quarter. Gateway Advisory LLC now owns 6,551,529 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $6,552,000 after buying an additional 6,439,573 shares during the period. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can bought a new position in iShares Gold Trust in the second quarter valued at approximately $175,383,000. Institutional investors own 58.45% of the companys stock.

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iShares Gold Trust Stock Down 0.3 %

Shares of iShares Gold Trust stock traded down $0.11 on Thursday, hitting $37.40. The company had a trading volume of 826,490 shares, compared to its average volume of 5,134,695. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $36.15 and a 200-day moving average of $36.82. iShares Gold Trust has a twelve month low of $30.69 and a twelve month high of $39.04.

iShares Gold Trust Company Profile

iShares Gold Trust (the Trust) is to own gold transferred to the Trust in exchange for shares issued by the Trust (Shares). Each Share represents a fractional undivided beneficial interest in the net assets of the Trust. The assets of the Trust consist of gold held by the Trusts custodian on behalf of the Trust.

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese and Pakistani navies will hold the "Sea Guardians-3" joint maritime exercise in the waters and airspace of the northern Arabian Sea in November, said a Chinese defense spokesperson on Thursday.

Wu Qian, spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, said at a press conference that the exercise will focus on joint response to maritime security threats, and will include subjects such as formation movement, search and rescue and anti-submarine operation. Activities such as professional exchanges and mutual visits will also be arranged.

This exercise aims to consolidate the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership and traditional friendship between the two countries and strengthen realistic combat training of the two militaries, Wu said. 
Premier Fund Managers Ltd decreased its stake in shares of Forestar Group Inc. (NYSE:FOR  Free Report) by 66.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 49,648 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock after selling 98,497 shares during the quarter. Premier Fund Managers Ltd owned approximately 0.10% of Forestar Group worth $1,125,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Federated Hermes Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Forestar Group during the 3rd quarter worth $29,000. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Forestar Group during the 1st quarter worth about $35,000. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC boosted its position in shares of Forestar Group by 1,065.5% during the 1st quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 2,634 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 2,408 shares in the last quarter. Barclays PLC increased its holdings in shares of Forestar Group by 533.7% in the 4th quarter. Barclays PLC now owns 4,892 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock valued at $75,000 after acquiring an additional 4,120 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Legal & General Group Plc raised its position in shares of Forestar Group by 14.5% during the 2nd quarter. Legal & General Group Plc now owns 6,652 shares of the oil and gas exploration companys stock worth $91,000 after acquiring an additional 842 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 35.94% of the companys stock.

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Forestar Group Stock Performance

Shares of FOR stock traded up $0.15 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $23.36. The stock had a trading volume of 2,279 shares, compared to its average volume of 150,059. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 1.88 and a quick ratio of 1.88. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.17 billion, a PE ratio of 7.98 and a beta of 1.63. The stocks 50 day moving average is $26.86 and its 200 day moving average is $23.86. Forestar Group Inc. has a twelve month low of $10.86 and a twelve month high of $31.43.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on FOR. StockNews.com raised Forestar Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Wednesday. BTIG Research raised shares of Forestar Group from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $32.00 target price on the stock in a research report on Friday, July 21st. Finally, Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of Forestar Group from $30.00 to $32.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, July 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating and three have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Forestar Group presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $25.83.

View Our Latest Analysis on FOR

About Forestar Group

(Free Report)

Forestar Group Inc operates as a residential lot development company in the United States. The acquires land and develops infrastructure for single-family residential communities. It sells its residential single-family finished lots to local, regional, and national homebuilders. The company is headquartered in Arlington, Texas.

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AMG National Trust Bank lifted its position in shares of EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 6.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 14,623 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after acquiring an additional 861 shares during the quarter. AMG National Trust Banks holdings in EOG Resources were worth $1,673,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. CENTRAL TRUST Co lifted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 0.8% in the 3rd quarter. CENTRAL TRUST Co now owns 9,118 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $1,019,000 after purchasing an additional 74 shares during the period. White Pine Capital LLC lifted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 2.2% in the 4th quarter. White Pine Capital LLC now owns 3,942 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $511,000 after purchasing an additional 85 shares during the period. Inscription Capital LLC lifted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 0.9% in the 2nd quarter. Inscription Capital LLC now owns 9,961 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $1,140,000 after purchasing an additional 86 shares during the period. Lindbrook Capital LLC lifted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 4.0% in the 2nd quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 2,275 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $260,000 after purchasing an additional 88 shares during the period. Finally, Guinness Atkinson Asset Management Inc lifted its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 2.4% in the 2nd quarter. Guinness Atkinson Asset Management Inc now owns 3,746 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $429,000 after purchasing an additional 89 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 89.21% of the companys stock.

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EOG Resources Price Performance

Shares of EOG Resources stock opened at $126.53 on Thursday. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $129.12 and its 200-day simple moving average is $121.68. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 52 week low of $98.52 and a 52 week high of $150.88. The company has a market capitalization of $73.67 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.74, a PEG ratio of 0.40 and a beta of 1.55. The company has a quick ratio of 2.02, a current ratio of 2.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14.

EOG Resources Dividend Announcement

EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 3rd. The energy exploration company reported $2.49 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.28 by $0.21. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 28.52% and a net margin of 33.58%. The business had revenue of $5.57 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.74 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $2.74 earnings per share. The businesss revenue was down 24.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts expect that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.46 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, October 31st. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, October 17th will be issued a $0.825 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, October 16th. This represents a $3.30 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.61%. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 22.24%.

Insider Transactions at EOG Resources

In other news, COO Lloyd W. Helms, Jr. sold 4,551 shares of EOG Resources stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, August 15th. The stock was sold at an average price of $130.76, for a total value of $595,088.76. Following the sale, the chief operating officer now directly owns 145,259 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,994,066.84. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders own 0.30% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have recently commented on the company. Piper Sandler raised their target price on EOG Resources from $156.00 to $157.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, August 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on EOG Resources from $145.00 to $156.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 27th. Truist Financial lifted their target price on EOG Resources from $150.00 to $160.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, August 7th. Mizuho lifted their target price on EOG Resources from $155.00 to $157.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, September 18th. Finally, Raymond James reduced their target price on EOG Resources from $150.00 to $140.00 and set a strong-buy rating for the company in a report on Monday, July 24th. Eight analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have given a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $149.17.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on EOG

EOG Resources Company Profile

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, and natural gas and natural gas liquids. Its principal producing areas are in New Mexico and Texas in the United States; and the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund cut its position in shares of Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE:KMI  Free Report) by 43.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 684,528 shares of the pipeline companys stock after selling 521,966 shares during the quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Funds holdings in Kinder Morgan were worth $11,788,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors also recently modified their holdings of KMI. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV grew its position in Kinder Morgan by 57.6% during the second quarter. Creative Financial Designs Inc. ADV now owns 1,732 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 633 shares during the last quarter. Farmers & Merchants Trust Co of Chambersburg PA grew its holdings in shares of Kinder Morgan by 100.0% during the 2nd quarter. Farmers & Merchants Trust Co of Chambersburg PA now owns 2,000 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $34,000 after purchasing an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its position in Kinder Morgan by 30.1% in the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 2,749 shares of the pipeline companys stock worth $48,000 after purchasing an additional 636 shares during the period. Certified Advisory Corp bought a new stake in Kinder Morgan in the first quarter worth $49,000. Finally, HM Payson & Co. boosted its position in Kinder Morgan by 119.5% during the second quarter. HM Payson & Co. now owns 2,897 shares of the pipeline companys stock valued at $50,000 after buying an additional 1,577 shares during the period. 62.33% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In related news, VP Sital K. Mody sold 55,849 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $17.36, for a total value of $969,538.64. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 12.64% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on KMI shares. Royal Bank of Canada restated a sector perform rating and set a $20.00 target price on shares of Kinder Morgan in a report on Thursday, July 20th. The Goldman Sachs Group started coverage on shares of Kinder Morgan in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating and a $20.00 price target on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Kinder Morgan in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on Kinder Morgan from $21.00 to $22.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, August 1st. Finally, Barclays reduced their target price on Kinder Morgan from $20.00 to $19.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 18th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and two have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Kinder Morgan has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $20.38.

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Kinder Morgan Stock Down 0.4 %

Shares of KMI traded down $0.06 on Thursday, reaching $16.73. The stock had a trading volume of 1,238,594 shares, compared to its average volume of 12,909,945. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a current ratio of 0.39. Kinder Morgan, Inc. has a 12-month low of $15.89 and a 12-month high of $19.35. The firm has a market capitalization of $37.19 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.17, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.88 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $16.92 and a 200-day simple moving average of $17.05.

Kinder Morgan (NYSE:KMI  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 18th. The pipeline company reported $0.25 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.26 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $3.91 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.64 billion. Kinder Morgan had a net margin of 15.54% and a return on equity of 7.78%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 24.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.25 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Kinder Morgan, Inc. will post 1.15 EPS for the current year.

Kinder Morgan Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, October 31st will be paid a dividend of $0.2825 per share. This represents a $1.13 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.75%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, October 30th. Kinder Morgans dividend payout ratio is 102.73%.

About Kinder Morgan

(Free Report)

Kinder Morgan, Inc operates as an energy infrastructure company in North America. The company operates through four segments: Natural Gas Pipelines, Products Pipelines, Terminals, and CO2. The Natural Gas Pipelines segment owns and operates interstate and intrastate natural gas pipeline, and underground storage systems; natural gas gathering systems and natural gas processing and treating facilities; natural gas liquids fractionation facilities and transportation systems; and liquefied natural gas gasification, liquefaction, and storage facilities.

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Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:BX  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm bought 696,253 shares of the asset managers stock, valued at approximately $65,371,000. Bank of Montreal Can owned about 0.10% of Blackstone at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. raised its position in shares of Blackstone by 498.7% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 12,290,886 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $1,079,631,000 after buying an additional 10,238,110 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank acquired a new position in Blackstone in the 4th quarter valued at approximately $510,355,000. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Blackstone by 96,256.0% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 5,790,996 shares of the asset managers stock worth $429,634,000 after purchasing an additional 5,784,986 shares in the last quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich raised its stake in shares of Blackstone by 98,060.7% in the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 4,908,037 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $456,300,000 after purchasing an additional 4,903,037 shares in the last quarter. Finally, BlackRock Inc. boosted its stake in Blackstone by 3.8% during the first quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 40,375,831 shares of the asset managers stock worth $3,546,613,000 after buying an additional 1,480,848 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 63.35% of the companys stock.

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Blackstone Stock Down 3.4 %

Shares of NYSE:BX opened at $91.91 on Thursday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $105.09 and a 200-day moving average of $96.46. Blackstone Inc. has a one year low of $71.72 and a one year high of $116.78. The stock has a market cap of $65.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.62, a P/E/G ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.47. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69, a current ratio of 0.84 and a quick ratio of 0.92.

Blackstone Increases Dividend

Blackstone ( NYSE:BX Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The asset manager reported $0.94 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.01 by ($0.07). The company had revenue of $2.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.60 billion. Blackstone had a net margin of 21.29% and a return on equity of 16.76%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 140.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.06 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Blackstone Inc. will post 3.94 earnings per share for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 6th. Investors of record on Monday, October 30th will be given a $0.80 dividend. This represents a $3.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.48%. This is an increase from Blackstones previous quarterly dividend of $0.79. The ex-dividend date is Friday, October 27th. Blackstones dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 132.77%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

BX has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. UBS Group raised their price target on shares of Blackstone from $102.00 to $120.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 19th. Wolfe Research began coverage on Blackstone in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. They issued a market perform rating on the stock. Evercore ISI boosted their target price on shares of Blackstone from $110.00 to $118.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, July 21st. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on shares of Blackstone from $114.00 to $121.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on shares of Blackstone from $118.00 to $113.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 20th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Blackstone presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $110.22.

View Our Latest Stock Report on BX

Insider Activity at Blackstone

In other news, Director William G. Parrett sold 3,874 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, September 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $112.47, for a total value of $435,708.78. Following the completion of the transaction, the director now owns 30,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,479,934.27. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other news, Director William G. Parrett sold 3,874 shares of Blackstone stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.47, for a total transaction of $435,708.78. Following the transaction, the director now owns 30,941 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,479,934.27. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, Director Joseph Baratta sold 74,565 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $107.32, for a total transaction of $8,002,315.80. Following the sale, the director now owns 985,883 shares in the company, valued at $105,804,963.56. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last 90 days, insiders sold 17,381,651 shares of company stock worth $198,022,087. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

About Blackstone

(Free Report)

Blackstone Inc is an alternative asset management firm specializing in real estate, private equity, hedge fund solutions, credit, secondary funds of funds, public debt and equity and multi-asset class strategies. The firm typically invests in early-stage companies. It also provide capital markets services.

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Danaher (NYSE:DHR  Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday. The conglomerate reported $2.02 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.83 by $0.19, MarketWatch Earnings reports. The business had revenue of $6.87 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $6.60 billion. Danaher had a return on equity of 13.87% and a net margin of 20.01%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was down 10.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.56 earnings per share.

Danaher Trading Up 0.1 %

DHR stock traded up $0.24 on Thursday, hitting $192.89. 707,233 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,916,404. The stock has a market capitalization of $142.42 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.18 and a beta of 0.81. The businesss fifty day moving average is $238.49 and its two-hundred day moving average is $240.73. Danaher has a twelve month low of $183.24 and a twelve month high of $281.54. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 2.08 and a quick ratio of 1.70.

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Danaher Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, October 27th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 12th will be issued a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, October 11th. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.56%. Danahers payout ratio is 13.62%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

DHR has been the subject of a number of research reports. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on shares of Danaher from $285.00 to $247.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, October 3rd. Citigroup cut their price objective on Danaher from $265.92 to $240.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. Barclays raised their price target on Danaher from $260.00 to $290.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 25th. Raymond James reduced their price objective on Danaher from $250.00 to $240.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada dropped their price objective on Danaher from $246.00 to $239.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. Three analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and fourteen have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $266.14.

Get Our Latest Analysis on DHR

Insider Activity

In related news, SVP Jose-Carlos Gutierrez-Ramos sold 590 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, August 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.54, for a total value of $147,818.60. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 6,939 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,738,497.06. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. In other news, SVP Daniel Raskas sold 11,213 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, July 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $260.65, for a total value of $2,922,668.45. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 38,288 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,979,767.20. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Jose-Carlos Gutierrez-Ramos sold 590 shares of Danaher stock in a transaction on Monday, August 21st. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.54, for a total transaction of $147,818.60. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 6,939 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,738,497.06. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 21,993 shares of company stock valued at $5,722,435 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 11.10% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in DHR. Fairfield Bush & CO. raised its stake in shares of Danaher by 10.9% during the first quarter. Fairfield Bush & CO. now owns 4,840 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $1,420,000 after purchasing an additional 475 shares during the period. Zions Bancorporation N.A. increased its stake in Danaher by 19.3% during the 1st quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 2,468 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $724,000 after buying an additional 400 shares during the period. Covestor Ltd lifted its holdings in Danaher by 76.8% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 495 shares of the conglomerates stock worth $145,000 after buying an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC boosted its position in Danaher by 14.1% in the 1st quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 31,530 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $9,248,000 after buying an additional 3,897 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bridgewater Associates LP grew its stake in shares of Danaher by 135.9% during the first quarter. Bridgewater Associates LP now owns 35,270 shares of the conglomerates stock valued at $10,346,000 after acquiring an additional 20,320 shares in the last quarter. 76.71% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Danaher

(Get Free Report)

Danaher Corporation designs, manufactures, and markets professional, medical, industrial, and commercial products and services worldwide. The Biotechnology segments offers bioprocess technologies, consumables, and services; lab filtration, separation, and purification; lab-scale protein purification and analytical tools; reagents, membranes and services; and healthcare filtration solutions.

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Steel Peak Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) by 19.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 4,017 shares of the railroad operators stock after buying an additional 648 shares during the period. Steel Peak Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Union Pacific were worth $822,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Vise Technologies Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Union Pacific by 14.3% during the 1st quarter. Vise Technologies Inc. now owns 4,388 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $883,000 after purchasing an additional 548 shares in the last quarter. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC lifted its holdings in Union Pacific by 25.6% in the first quarter. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC now owns 5,046 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $1,016,000 after buying an additional 1,028 shares during the period. Clearbridge Investments LLC boosted its position in Union Pacific by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Clearbridge Investments LLC now owns 1,933,582 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $389,153,000 after acquiring an additional 21,361 shares in the last quarter. First Hawaiian Bank raised its position in shares of Union Pacific by 6.9% in the 2nd quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 12,535 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $2,565,000 after acquiring an additional 806 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nichols & Pratt Advisers LLP MA lifted its stake in shares of Union Pacific by 282.1% in the 1st quarter. Nichols & Pratt Advisers LLP MA now owns 5,350 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,077,000 after purchasing an additional 3,950 shares during the period. 77.36% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In related news, EVP Kenyatta G. Rocker sold 8,700 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $222.43, for a total value of $1,935,141.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 42,061 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,355,628.23. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. In other news, CFO Jennifer L. Hamann sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $222.83, for a total value of $222,830.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer now directly owns 99,378 shares in the company, valued at approximately $22,144,399.74. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Kenyatta G. Rocker sold 8,700 shares of Union Pacific stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $222.43, for a total value of $1,935,141.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 42,061 shares in the company, valued at $9,355,628.23. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.28% of the companys stock.

Union Pacific Price Performance

Shares of UNP opened at $205.22 on Thursday. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $212.29 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $208.37. The firm has a market cap of $125.10 billion, a PE ratio of 19.69, a P/E/G ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 1.12. The company has a current ratio of 0.72, a quick ratio of 0.57 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.22. Union Pacific Co. has a 1-year low of $183.69 and a 1-year high of $240.48.

Union Pacific (NYSE:UNP  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 19th. The railroad operator reported $2.51 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.41 by $0.10. The company had revenue of $5.94 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.96 billion. Union Pacific had a return on equity of 49.14% and a net margin of 26.37%. Union Pacifics revenue for the quarter was down 9.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $3.19 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that Union Pacific Co. will post 10.27 EPS for the current year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Benchmark reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $254.00 price target on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Atlantic Securities downgraded shares of Union Pacific from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $244.00 target price on the stock. in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Credit Suisse Group lifted their price target on shares of Union Pacific from $235.00 to $262.00 in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Bank of America cut their price objective on shares of Union Pacific from $265.00 to $257.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Monday, September 25th. Finally, StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Union Pacific in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. Ten research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Union Pacific has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $237.08.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Union Pacific

About Union Pacific

(Free Report)

Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, and other agricultural users; petroleum, and liquid petroleum gases; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers.

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Bank of Montreal Can acquired a new stake in HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 232,747 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $70,725,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. 1ST Source Bank raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 0.4% during the first quarter. 1ST Source Bank now owns 8,582 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,263,000 after acquiring an additional 37 shares during the period. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. lifted its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 9.7% in the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 420 shares of the companys stock worth $111,000 after purchasing an additional 37 shares in the last quarter. Profit Investment Management LLC grew its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 2.1% during the 2nd quarter. Profit Investment Management LLC now owns 1,800 shares of the companys stock valued at $546,000 after buying an additional 37 shares in the last quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of HCA Healthcare by 0.7% in the first quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 5,493 shares of the companys stock worth $1,448,000 after buying an additional 39 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Westshore Wealth LLC grew its stake in HCA Healthcare by 2.2% during the first quarter. Westshore Wealth LLC now owns 1,866 shares of the companys stock valued at $492,000 after acquiring an additional 40 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 62.73% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at HCA Healthcare

In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total value of $1,400,500.48. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 19,760 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,317,811.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total value of $1,400,500.48. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,317,811.20. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Jeffrey E. Cohen sold 1,500 shares of HCA Healthcare stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total value of $405,000.00. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 4,414 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,191,780. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 9,620 shares of company stock worth $2,592,820. 1.60% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

HCA Healthcare Stock Down 2.1 %

Shares of HCA opened at $225.36 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $61.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.09, a P/E/G ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.62. HCA Healthcare, Inc. has a 12-month low of $207.24 and a 12-month high of $304.86. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $257.23 and a 200-day moving average price of $271.94. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 103.06.

HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The company reported $3.91 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.97 by ($0.06). HCA Healthcare had a return on equity of 2,040.32% and a net margin of 9.05%. The company had revenue of $16.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.77 billion. Equities research analysts expect that HCA Healthcare, Inc. will post 18.39 earnings per share for the current year.

HCA Healthcare Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 28th. Investors of record on Thursday, December 14th will be given a dividend of $0.60 per share. This represents a $2.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 13th. HCA Healthcares dividend payout ratio is currently 11.81%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

HCA has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM restated a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Raymond James decreased their price objective on HCA Healthcare from $320.00 to $280.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday. Mizuho reduced their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $325.00 to $275.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday. VNET Group reissued a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a research note on Wednesday, June 28th. Finally, Oppenheimer increased their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $310.00 to $315.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, July 28th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, HCA Healthcare has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $298.68.

Read Our Latest Analysis on HCA

About HCA Healthcare

(Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

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AMG National Trust Bank decreased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 4.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 22,888 shares of the companys stock after selling 990 shares during the quarter. AMG National Trust Banks holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $2,234,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Stone House Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at about $29,000. BOK Financial Private Wealth Inc. acquired a new position in Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at about $32,000. Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new position in Philip Morris International in the first quarter valued at about $32,000. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in Philip Morris International by 75.0% in the first quarter. FSC Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 350 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 150 shares during the last quarter. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its position in Philip Morris International by 127.0% in the first quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 370 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after buying an additional 207 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 79.70% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts have recently issued reports on PM shares. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $116.00 to $112.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. Barclays reduced their target price on shares of Philip Morris International from $115.00 to $110.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, September 21st. Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and issued a $114.00 price target on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Monday, October 2nd. Bank of America lowered their target price on shares of Philip Morris International from $118.00 to $111.00 in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, StockNews.com started coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has issued a hold rating and nine have issued a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $109.42.

Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Philip Morris International stock opened at $89.99 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $139.70 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.48, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.71. Philip Morris International Inc. has a one year low of $88.17 and a one year high of $105.62. The business has a fifty day moving average of $93.73 and a two-hundred day moving average of $95.31.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.62 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $9.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.21 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 129.48% and a net margin of 11.41%. The businesss revenue was up 13.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $1.53 EPS. Sell-side analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.22 EPS for the current year.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 12th. Investors of record on Wednesday, September 27th were given a dividend of $1.30 per share. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.78%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 26th. This is a boost from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.27. Philip Morris Internationals dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 100.97%.

Philip Morris International Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

Further Reading

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Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. lifted its stake in HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report) by 4.7% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund owned 21,972 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 984 shares during the period. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.s holdings in HCA Healthcare were worth $6,668,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. HB Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 8.1% during the second quarter. HB Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,982 shares of the companys stock worth $905,000 after purchasing an additional 223 shares during the period. Toroso Investments LLC increased its holdings in shares of HCA Healthcare by 90.4% during the 1st quarter. Toroso Investments LLC now owns 13,019 shares of the companys stock worth $3,433,000 after acquiring an additional 6,180 shares during the last quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System lifted its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 13,800 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,639,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. First Hawaiian Bank increased its holdings in shares of HCA Healthcare by 51.5% in the second quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 2,691 shares of the companys stock valued at $817,000 after purchasing an additional 915 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Ballentine Partners LLC boosted its holdings in shares of HCA Healthcare by 2.6% during the 2nd quarter. Ballentine Partners LLC now owns 3,184 shares of the companys stock worth $966,000 after buying an additional 81 shares during the period. 62.73% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

HCA has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Truist Financial reduced their price objective on HCA Healthcare from $340.00 to $300.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reaffirmed a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a report on Wednesday, June 28th. Credit Suisse Group boosted their target price on shares of HCA Healthcare from $311.00 to $316.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, July 28th. VNET Group reissued a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a report on Wednesday, June 28th. Finally, Mizuho dropped their price target on shares of HCA Healthcare from $325.00 to $275.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $298.68.

Insider Activity

In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of HCA Healthcare stock in a transaction on Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total value of $1,400,500.48. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,317,811.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. In related news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total value of $1,400,500.48. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $5,317,811.20. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, SVP Jeffrey E. Cohen sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total value of $405,000.00. Following the sale, the senior vice president now owns 4,414 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,191,780. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 9,620 shares of company stock worth $2,592,820 in the last quarter. 1.60% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

HCA Healthcare Trading Down 2.1 %

Shares of HCA stock opened at $225.36 on Thursday. The stock has a market cap of $61.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.09, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 1.62. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $257.23 and a 200-day moving average of $271.94. The company has a current ratio of 1.15, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 103.06. HCA Healthcare, Inc. has a 1-year low of $207.24 and a 1-year high of $304.86.

HCA Healthcare (NYSE:HCA  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The company reported $3.91 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.97 by ($0.06). HCA Healthcare had a return on equity of 2,040.32% and a net margin of 9.05%. The firm had revenue of $16.21 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $15.77 billion. On average, equities research analysts forecast that HCA Healthcare, Inc. will post 18.39 earnings per share for the current year.

HCA Healthcare Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 28th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.60 per share. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.06%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 13th. HCA Healthcares payout ratio is 11.81%.

HCA Healthcare Profile

(Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

Read More

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GUIYANG, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- With the harvest season in full swing in Longli County, southwest China's Guizhou Province, verdant hills are being embellished by yellowish, spiny Cili fruits, or Rosa roxburghii in Latin.

Meaning "thorn pear" in Chinese, Cili is rich in vitamin C and has various nutritional benefits. It is one of the iconic specialties of this mountainous region.

Yan Qihua, a 60-year-old villager in Longli, has grown Cili for over two decades and has witnessed how this prickly fruit has reshaped his hometown.

"Cili is hardly a common fruit and is difficult to preserve, so my wholesale business was once caught in a dilemma and I had to find a way out," said Yan.

Eyeing industrial upgrades, he found the solution in deep processing. "We began to process fresh fruits into candied products, which have a longer shelf-life and added value," Yan said.

With the help of agricultural technology, Yan has dedicated the past two decades to exploring more approaches for candied Cili manufacturing. As more local residents hopped on the bandwagon, Yan established an agricultural cooperative to pool wisdom and share growth opportunities.

With Cili production having evolved into a pillar industry locally, the cooperative boasts an annual output of more than 450 tonnes, helping over 300 local residents to secure employment each year.

Yan's story exemplifies the concerted efforts of Guizhou in advancing rural revitalization of distinctive industries. Recent years have seen the province scale up support for the upgrading of the Cili industry.

A case in point is Huishui County, where boxes of Cili fruits from neighboring Longli are processed by an assembly line into a juice beverage.

Known as Ciningji, the beverage is an outcome of cross-provincial cooperation in poverty alleviation. Its producer, Guizhou Wanglaoji Ciningji Industrial Development Co., Ltd., was established by Guangzhou Pharmaceutical Holdings Limited.

Benefiting from Guizhou's favorable conditions for Cili planting and the Guangzhou-based company's advantages in processing and marketing, the beverage is gaining popularity among a wider range of consumers.

Guizhou has officially designated the Cili industry as one of its 12 major rural industries with local characteristics and advantages.

Data showed that as of the end of 2022, the annual output of Cili in Guizhou had reached 15 billion yuan (2.09 billion U.S. dollars), with the over 210,000 rural residents involved in the industry enjoying an increase in income.

Looking ahead, Hu Hongcheng, head of the provincial forestry commission, said that the province will step up efforts to expand the planting area, bolster the market presence and promote deep processing to help the Cili industry continue to thrive.

"We are striving to take more quality Guizhou products out of the mountains so they can reach to the world," Hu said. 
Zhang Jun (C, front), China's permanent representative to the United Nations, gives an explanation of the vote after the UN Security Council voting on a draft resolution regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine at the UN headquarters in New York, on Oct. 25, 2023. China on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine, pointing out that the draft departs from the spirit of previous UN resolutions. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine, pointing out that the draft departs from the spirit of previous UN resolutions.

"The draft departs from the spirit of previous UN resolutions and embeds the dangerous logic of clash of civilizations and the justification of war and use of force," Zhang Jun, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, said in an explanation of the vote.

"Our position is based on facts, based on law, based on conscience, based on justice, and based on the strong appeals of the entire world, in particular the Arab countries."

Last Wednesday, a draft resolution, focusing on the humanitarian situation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, emphasizing the protection of civilians, and supported by an overwhelming majority of Council members, failed to be adopted due to the use of veto, said the envoy.

On Saturday evening, the United States introduced a new draft resolution that set aside the consensus of the Council members, and instead included many elements that were still deeply divisive and went far beyond the humanitarian realm, he added.

Many council members, including China, Russia, the United Arab Emirates, and Brazil, proposed amendments to the text. However, the sponsor, ignoring the major concerns of relevant members, made only cosmetic changes to the draft before the text was put in blue in order to rush the council to vote on it, Zhang said.

"China is by no means opposing the council taking actions. On the contrary, we have always strongly called for the council to play a responsible role. What we oppose is that the draft resolution is evasive on the most urgent issue of ending the hostility. It has never been able to call for an immediate ceasefire in clear and unambiguous terms," Zhang said.

"If a Council resolution is ambiguous on the question of war and peace and of life and death, it is not only irresponsible but also extremely dangerous. It is tantamount to paving the way for large-scale military actions and giving the green light to further escalation of war," he noted.

The envoy underscored that China is by no means indifferent to acts that harm civilians.

"We strongly condemned at the first opportunity all violence and attacks against civilians, and called for diplomatic efforts to promote the early release of hostages. What we oppose is that the draft resolution does not call on the parties concerned to stop the indiscriminate and asymmetrical use of force, nor does it call for a thorough investigation into the heinous attacks such as the one on the Al-Ahli Hospital. Such selective application of international law and double standards will only push more innocent civilians to the brink of death."

Zhang also noted that China is by no means indifferent to the sufferings of the people in Gaza.

"We have always strongly called for opening humanitarian corridors, ensuring humanitarian access, and avoiding humanitarian disasters. What we oppose is that the draft resolution selectively avoids referring to the root causes of the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and fails to urge Israel to lift its full siege on Gaza and to rescind the evacuation order for northern Gaza. Such an evasive and ineffectual approach will only accelerate Gaza's falling into an even greater humanitarian catastrophe."

The ambassador stressed that China is not denying Israel's security concerns.

"We have always strongly advocated that equal attention should be paid to the security concerns and legitimate rights of both Israel and Palestine. What we oppose is that the draft resolution attempts to establish a new narrative on the Palestinian question, ignoring the fact that the Palestinian territory has been occupied for a long time and evading the fundamental issue of independent statehood for the Palestinian people."

If adopted, it will completely dash the prospect of the two-state solution and plunge the Palestinian and Israeli peoples into a vicious cycle of hatred and confrontation, the ambassador noted.

The ambassador pointed out that China has no selfish interests in the question of Palestine. "Any initiative that contributes to peace will receive China's staunch support. Any endeavor that facilitates Palestinian-Israeli reconciliation will be pursued by China with all-out efforts."

Since the outbreak of the latest round of conflict, China has actively urged the council to take meaningful actions and make binding decisions as soon as possible, the envoy said.

"We also emphasize that the actions and decisions of the Council must respect facts and history, take the right direction, and show due responsibility and accountability, so as to ensure that they stand the test of morality and conscience," he added.

"We are ready to continue to work with members of the Council and the international community to play a constructive role in putting an end to the hostility, protecting civilians, averting further humanitarian catastrophes, and realizing a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution to the question of Palestine," the envoy said. 

The UN Security Council holds a vote on a draft resolution regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine at the UN headquarters in New York, on Oct. 25, 2023. China on Wednesday vetoed a UN Security Council draft resolution regarding the conflict between Israel and Palestine, pointing out that the draft departs from the spirit of previous UN resolutions. (Xinhua/Xie E)
Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Looking back at the founding aspiration of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), its members were brought together to ensure that regional affairs are decided by regional countries through consultation, without interference from those outside the region, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

During his speech at the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States, Li called for jointly building a security barrier in the region and resolutely resisting external interference.

In his speech, Li said the SCO summit in July this year further reached important consensus, and identified key tasks on carrying forward the Shanghai Spirit and building a closer SCO community with a shared future, adding that China is willing to work with all parties to implement the spirit of the summit.

At the Samarkand summit last year, President Xi Jinping stressed the necessity to uphold political trust, win-win cooperation, equality between nations, openness and inclusiveness and equity and justice, which is the key to the success of the SCO's development and growth, Li added.

Looking forward to the future, SCO members should keep in mind the founding aspiration and uphold the key to success, Li said, stressing that guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, SCO members should work together and make mutual achievements, advance cooperation in various fields in a solid way, and inject more certainty and positive energy into peace and development of the region and the world.

Li offered four proposals on deepening SCO cooperation. First, the SCO members should jointly solidify regional security barrier, firmly reject external interference, improve the organization's mechanism of coping with security threats and challenges as soon as possible, and crack down on the "three forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism as well as transnational organized crimes.

Second, SCO members should jointly promote the speedy economic recovery, cooperate to build safe and efficient transportation systems, continuously promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and maintain steady and smooth industrial supply chains.

Third, the members should jointly enhance the Belt and Road cooperation. The third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation has been successfully held, and the Belt and Road has become the most popular international public goods and the largest international cooperation platform in the past 10 years.

The SCO members should reinforce the alignment of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with the member states' respective development strategies, push forward the construction of major economic corridors, and develop well the SCO Development Bank.

Fourth, the SCO member states should jointly promote the understanding and amity among their people, and continue to deepen cooperation in areas including education, culture and tourism, and sports.

Leaders including Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Tajik Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda, Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, Indian foreign minister, Pakistani foreign minister attended the meeting, together with Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko and Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, leaders of two observer states. Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov hosted the meeting.

The SCO is committed to carrying forward the Shanghai Spirit, said participants of the meeting, adding that since its founding 22 years ago, the SCO has continuously developed, with its global influence ever increasing.

They agreed to implement the consensus reached at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO, jointly combat the "three forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism and transnational organized crimes, strengthen cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, transportation, agriculture, energy, finance, high and new technology, environmental protection and green development, promote Belt and Road cooperation, improve infrastructure connectivity, and deepen people-to-people exchanges in such fields as tourism and education.

They also agreed to strengthen institutional building of the SCO, practice true multilateralism, jointly safeguard regional security and promote regional prosperity, and help make the international system more inclusive and sustainable.

The Chinese premier and other leaders of the SCO member states attending the meeting signed and issued a joint communique, and approved a series of SCO cooperation documents and resolutions on economy and trade, railways and institution building, among other areas. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yue Yuewei)
IF YOU ARE to succeed in a negligence claim, you must show both negligence and causation with the assistance of your medical advisors and ourselves as your solicitors.

In other words, you must show a breach of a duty of care and that such breach caused your accident and injuries.

In every case, you must prove the case, and we need to prove this on the balance of probabilities. To do this, you will need medical and other expert reports.

What is Medical Negligence?

Medical negligence is an act or omission by a health care professional who is below the accepted standard of care and results in injury or death to a patient.

There are four main elements to proving medical negligence:

Duty of Care & The Standard of Care legal duty is owed whenever a health care provider or hospital undertakes to treat a patient.

Breach Duty of Care  it must be shown on the facts and with the help of expert evidence that the health care provider in question failed to follow the relevant standard of care.

Causation  the breach of duty must have caused injury

Damage  Regardless of whether or not the health care provider was negligent, there is no basis for a claim in negligence without damage, be it monetary, physical or emotional.

Was there a breach of this Duty of Care?

The basis for proving a breach of a duty of care or standard of approach to care was set out by the Supreme Court in Dunne v National Maternity Hospital which can be summarised:

A successful case in medical negligence can be made if you can prove that a medical practitioner acted in a way that no medical practitioner of equal standing would act.

The fact that the medical practitioner did not follow an approved practice is not enough to prove your case.

Even though a medical practitioner followed an approved practice, liability may arise if this practice has inherent defects which ought to have been obvious.

An honest difference of opinion between doctors is acceptable unless it can be proven that the course of treatment followed did not comply with the careful conduct of a medical practitioner of like specialisation and skill.

Examples of where this standard is applied

Diagnosis

These types of cases usually occur when a medical professional does not act in a proper or timely manner. If the person suffers an injury because the medical professional did not consider the patient's version of events and a detailed account of the seriousness of their symptoms, then the patient may have a case for medical negligence.

In cases other than screening cases, for instance, the Supreme Court has found in favour of a patient where the casualty officer ignored and did not follow up on a referral letter as it was an "inherently defective" practice and was negligent.

As we now know, early detection is vital in cases such as cancer, as it enables timely medical treatment, and in many cases, the patient can be successfully treated. Unfortunately, many people living with cancer are misdiagnosed as not having cancer.

Our experience in dealing with these cases shows several reasons a cancer misdiagnosis can occur. Many cases arise from human error or a lack of skill, such as:

A doctor may not respond appropriately when a patient presents displaying symptoms of cancer;

There may be a failure to examine thoroughly or a failure to recognise the symptoms and signs of cancer;

There may be a failure to refer to a cancer specialist; or

There may be a failure to monitor a patient with a family cancer history appropriately.

In many cases before the Courts, it has been shown that technicians often misinterpret laboratory results and scans.

Treatment

As well as failing to treat a patient properly, a failure to provide adequate resources may lead to liability for medical negligence.

By way of example, a patient had surgery to remove a tumour in their throat. The tracheotomy tube was knocked out of place on the second night after the surgery. By the time the airway passage was established, the patient was brain dead.

A case was brought because the surgeon allowed the patient to recover in ICU, where no one was trained to replace a tracheostomy tube.

The Court found that the failure to have a person, nurse or doctor, in the ICU trained to replace a tracheostomy tube, under the circumstances, was an "inherent defect". The surgeon was found guilty of negligence because the deceased would not have died if a trained person had been present in ICU.

Disclosure or Consent

A failure on the part of a medical professional to make complete and adequate disclosure of the detail of treatment can lead to a claim of medical negligence. Patients are often asked to sign "consent forms" without being given sufficient information to make an informed decision.

An example of a failure to disclose occurred when a patient underwent a bone graft for a dental implant procedure. Before the operation, the practitioner told the patient there was no guarantee that unforeseen complications wouldn't arise. However, he did not disclose a risk of chronic neuropathic pain, which the patient subsequently suffered.

The Courts found that the injury was a known and foreseeable consequence of damaging a nerve and that the standards of disclosure for medical practitioners should be set by patients and not by doctors for doctors.

Doctors must consider the severity of the consequences and frequency of risk to the Plaintiff's particular circumstances before the surgery and advise patients accordingly.

Did the breach cause you harm?

Once you can establish duty and a breach, you must prove that this breach caused harm to you.

Medical negligence cases are complex because the cause of the harm can be challenging to pinpoint. In many cases, the person is sick before they ever get to the hospital or suffers from a severe underlying condition, such as cancer.

One of the tasks we as solicitors face is to identify what the outcome would have been if it was not for the healthcare professional's negligence. The challenge is to establish the difference between acceptable and unacceptable outcomes.

The other side will almost always argue that the harm caused by the patient's illness before they ever attended the doctor. They often argue that in the case of a mistake in surgery, the mistake was within the realm of acceptable error.



How do we prove it? An outside viewpoint.

It is often difficult to find suitable experts based in Ireland who are willing to provide a report which might be used to support a claim of medical negligence.

For this reason, it is usually necessary to retain medical experts in the UK and sometimes further afield. Regrettably, a patient who suspects they may have been the victim of medical negligence is put to the additional inconvenience and expense of having to retain a foreign expert.

However, we make this step easier. We have built up a panel of consultants over the years who are recognised experts in their respective fields.

It is essential to understand the role of the expert witness in cases like this. They usually have a dual role. They give evidence of the required professional standard in the case. They also provide evidence on how they consider that standard was used in the case.

Ultimately, however, it is a matter for the Court to decide which side has presented the most persuasive case.

How long do I have to take a case?

The first step to establishing whether there is a viable case is to look at the Statute of Limitations.

Under the Statute of Limitations, a person has two years to commence proceedings from when the negligent event occurred.

However, it is quite possible that someone may not know that they have been a victim of negligence within a two-year timeframe. In such a case, a person may rely on "the Knowledge Principle".

Effectively, a patient has two years from the date of the incident or two years from the date they discover that the incident may have caused the injury.

However, they are also fixed with knowledge where they ought to have known the facts, resulting in them having a case of medical negligence.

This extension of the two-year time limit can be quite challenging to pin down and varies from case to case.

For more, see the Lynch Solicitors website.
The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz Announces Investigation of Hormel Foods Corporation (HRL) on Behalf of Investors

The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces an investigation of Hormel Foods Corporation ("Hormel" or the "Company") (NYSE: HRL) on behalf of investors concerning the Company's possible violations of federal securities laws.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.

On October 12, 2023, the United Food ad Commercial Workers International Union announced workers for Hormel in Minnesota, Georgia, Wisconsin and Iowa voted to ratify a new labor contract that includes "the largest wage increases in the company's history." On that day, Hormel held an investor event and issued its financial targets which "outline[d] updated strategic priorities" and updated its long-term forecast, projecting sales growth in the low-to-mid single digits, and long-term earnings per share growth in the high single digits.







On this news, Hormel's stock price fell $3.33, or 9.8%, to close at $32.40 per share on October 12, 2023, thereby injuring investors.

Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW.

If you purchased Hormel securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

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The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz Announces Investigation of NuScale Power Corporation (SMR) on Behalf of Investors

The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz announces an investigation of NuScale Power Corporation ("NuScale" or the "Company") (NYSE: SMR) on behalf of investors concerning the Company's possible violations of federal securities laws.

If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.

On October 19, 2023, Iceberg Research published a report alleging, among other things, that NuScale "recently disclosed a huge contract with blockchain datacenter service provider Standard Power. This contract has zero chance of being executed as Standard Power clearly does not have the means to support contracts of this size." Additionally, the report stated that "NuScale has around 15 months before its cash runs out."







On this news, NuScale's stock price fell $0.58, or 11.5%, to close at $4.46 per share on October 19, 2023, thereby injuring investors.

Follow us for updates on Twitter: twitter.com/FRC_LAW.

If you purchased NuScale securities, have information or would like to learn more about these claims, or have any questions concerning this announcement or your rights or interests with respect to these matters, please contact Frank R. Cruz, of The Law Offices of Frank R. Cruz, 1999 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1100, Los Angeles, California 90067 at 310-914-5007, by email to [email protected], or visit our website at www.frankcruzlaw.com. If you inquire by email please include your mailing address, telephone number, and number of shares purchased.

This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025167500/en/
[October 25, 2023] Pioneering Industry Standards with Three AI Innovations, TPIsoftware's SysTalk.Chat Wins IT Matters Awards Tweet

TAIPEI, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Winning industry-wide acclaims such as Taiwan Excellence Awards, the Oscars of Taiwan industries, TPIsoftware clinched another prestigious recognition from IT Matters Awards for driving digital transformation with its proprietary software product SysTalk.Chat: Conversational AI for Customer Service . Featuring the three AI innovations "Dual-Brain & Single-Process," "AI Brain Integrated with ChatGPT" and "Visual Chatbot", SysTalk.Chat surpasses 200 entries from esteemed enterprises and receives top honor in the IT Matters Product/Project category. The first edition of the IT Matters Awards, organized by Taiwan's Administration for Digital Industries and Information Management Association (IMA), recognizes companies devoted to innovative IT technologies and IT-friendly environments. Serving Millions in Taiwan with Robust AI Capabilities SysTalk.Chat has created a transformative impact and innovated customer services for industries like BFSI, healthcare, transportation, e-commerce, etc. TPIsoftware's SysTalk.ai, an AI-powered product portfolio, further builds an AI dgital workforce blueprint seamlessly integrated into individuals' lives. "We strive to make AI an integral part of people's daily lives" states Jeff Lin, VP of Innovation & AI Product Division at TPIsoftware, "SysTalk.Chat has served over 14,000,000 people annually with a market share of over 36% in Taiwan's life insurance industry, making it the market leader."



TPIsoftware: Establishing Leadership Through Innovation To complete the conversational service blueprint and maximize the digital workforce capacity requires API-led connectivity between services, and a middle platform featuring API management is the key to facilitating service communication. With integration of TPIsoftware's iPaaS Middle Platform DigiFusion, SysTalk.Chat can connect core IT applications and develop innovative digital services. The ISO 27001 certified DigiFusion acts as a bridge between services, which helps enterprises build interconnected service ecosystems and expand core offerings. By providing agility, scalability, security and more, DigiFusion allows collaboration with external partners and drives innovation for businesses.

TPIsoftware is experiencing an unprecedented growth in recent years. Following major accomplishments such as being selected by Financial Times as a top 500 Asia-Pacific High-Growth Company of 2022 and 2023 in a row, and featured in reports of leading research firms like IDC, TPIsoftware has demonstrated "Best in Taiwan" globally for its strong product competence. "SysTalk.Chat has also driven green transformation and sustainability by facilitating human-machine cooperation with the most efficient AI training" said Ben Yao, CEO of TPIsoftware, "This recognition highlights the innovative work and dedication of our company, establishing us as a leader of enterprise software technology." View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/pioneering-industry-standards-with-three-ai-innovations-tpisoftwares-systalkchat-wins-it-matters-awards-301966950.html SOURCE TPIsoftware

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[October 26, 2023] Axway Software: Strong Revenue Performance in Q3 2023 Tweet

Regulatory News: In Q3 2023, as in the first 9 months of the year, Axway (Euronext: AXW.PA) recorded an excellent sales performance characterized by the dynamism of its subscription offerings which continued to grow at a sustained pace, both through the strengthening of long-term partnerships between Axway and several of its major customers, and through the acquisition of new references. Bookings were up 22% as compared to Q3 2022, driven by an increase in the number of transactions with new customers and a major 5-year expansion contract with a leading international financial institution on the Axway Financial Accounting Hub offering. This uninterrupted momentum translated into organic revenue growth of 11.1% over the first 9 months of the year, validating the effectiveness of the optimized sales organization and the relevance of the more concentrated product portfolio. In recent months, several major developments have taken place: The MFT product line, designed to meet the growing demand of large organizations for a reliable, high-performance managed file transfer solution, has seen a surge in adoption. The recognized security and efficiency of Axway's offering was reflected in Q3 by a 15% increase in the number of new customers worldwide, and a remarkable 27% jump in North America. This trend perfectly translates Axway's dedication to deliver a top-tier MFT solution to meet its customers' critical security needs;

Axway's B2B integration offering has continued to expand and is firmly established as one of the most comprehensive on the market. The product line now includes the VAN capabilities of the Axway Business Network and the e-invoicing functionalities of Advalvas, an acquisition finalized last March. With regard to e-invoicing, the pipeline has grown strongly over the last 6 months, due in particular to the interest shown by many service providers in certified expertise around the PEPPOL network;

capabilities of the Axway Business Network and the e-invoicing functionalities of Advalvas, an acquisition finalized last March. With regard to e-invoicing, the pipeline has grown strongly over the last 6 months, due in particular to the interest shown by many service providers in certified expertise around the PEPPOL network; Axway has, for the 8 th time in its history, been recognized among the world leaders in the APIM market in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for API Management 2023 study. Axway stood out for the completeness of its vision of the market, recognized as the most advanced, thanks to an approach based on an open, vendor-agnostic platform combined with a strategy that treats APIs as products. Over the quarter, the recently launched Amplify Enterprise Marketplace accounted for 75% of new APIM opportunities;

time in its history, been recognized among the world leaders in the APIM market in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for API Management 2023 study. Axway stood out for the completeness of its vision of the market, recognized as the most advanced, thanks to an approach based on an open, vendor-agnostic platform combined with a strategy that treats APIs as products. Over the quarter, the recently launched Amplify Enterprise Marketplace accounted for 75% of new APIM opportunities; Mid-October saw Axway's acquisition of Cycom Finances, a French company and its PaE solution specialized in financial data referencing and accounting mapping. Through this transaction, Axway strengthens its Axway Financial Accounting Hub offering and has entered into a strategic partnership with KPMG France to offer a complete financial systems modernization solution to major banking institutions. Patrick Donovan, Axway's Chief Executive Officer, said: "I am proud to observe that Axway's activity grew for the 4th consecutive quarter in Q3 2023. We are achieving good progress on our most important product lines, and customer satisfaction is once again high. As we enter the final stretch of our 3-year strategic plan, we are well positioned to continue moving forward based on a sustainable, growing and profitable business model. At this stage of the year, I can reconfirm that we should achieve the upper end of our annual targets, both in terms of organic revenue growth and margin. This performance will recognize the remarkable work of Axway's teams, once again rewarded by the recognition of the quality of our solutions and our vision of the market by leading analysts, as well as by our renewed ability to regularly enrich our product portfolio and our offering catalog. Full-year results to be published next February will enable us to assess our progress and project the future development of our strategy in more detail, but in the meantime, a year-end full of challenges and opportunities awaits us!" Comments on Q3 2023 activity







Axway Software: Consolidated revenue 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022

Restated* Q3 2022

Reported Total

Growth Organic

Growth Revenue 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates

In Q3 2023, Axway's revenue was 69.4m, up 11.3% organically and 2.7% in total. Currency fluctuations had a negative impact of 2.9m on quarterly revenue, mainly due to the depreciation of the US Dollar against the Euro. The scope effect for the quarter was negative by 2.3m following the different product portfolio rationalization operations finalized in H2 2022. Axway Software: Revenue by business line 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022

Restated* Q3 2022

Reported Total

Growth Organic

Growth License 2.7 1.9 2.3 16.2% 41.8% Subscription 37.0 24.6 27.4 35.2% 50.7% Maintenance 21.1 26.6 28.3 -25.3% -20.7% Services 8.6 9.2 9.6 -10.4% -7.2% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates The License activity generated revenue of 2.7m in Q3 2023 (4% of total revenue), up 41.8% organically on the same period last year. Over the quarter, sales were boosted by the success of a license-only specialized product, aimed at a specific customer base, and by several upsells on existing license contracts. Subscription revenue came to 37.0m over the quarter, representing organic growth of 50.7% compared with Q3 2022. While the activity accounted for 53% of the company's total revenue in the period, bookings continued to grow at a sustained pace, in line with the first 6 months of the year. Revenue from Axway Managed contracts continued to rise at a steady and strong rate of over 15% versus Q3 2022, while Customer Managed sales once again increased sharply. Over the quarter, the annual value of new subscription contracts signed (ACV) reached 8.8m, up 18% year-on-year. Upfront revenue from new and renewed Customer Managed contracts amounted to 13.1m for the quarter. Maintenance revenue totaled 21.1m in Q3 2023 (30% of total revenue), down 20.7% organically. Customers continued to accelerate their migration to new subscription offers, particularly when extending their contracts to meet additional usage or functionality needs. At the end of September 2023, Axway's ARR (Annual Recurring Revenue) was 202.5m, up 10.4% on a like-for-like basis compared to the end of September 2022. During the quarter, revenue from renewable contracts represented 83% of total revenue. Services activity saw an organic decline of 7.2% over the quarter, with revenue of 8.6m (13% of total revenue). Several major contracts launched in Asia/Pacific and Latin America in Q3 2022 established a high comparison basis. For the full year, Axway anticipates a slight decline in the Services activity, but an improvement of its profitability. Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area 3rd Quarter 2023 (m) Q3 2023 Q3 2022

Restated* Q3 2022

Reported Total

Growth Organic

Growth France 19.7 14.8 15.1 30.4% 32.4% Rest of Europe 15.7 14.6 14.7 7.0% 7.9% Americas 29.8 28.7 32.8 -9.1% 4.0% Asia/Pacific 4.2 4.2 5.0 -15.9% -0.7% Axway Software 69.4 62.3 67.5 2.7% 11.3% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates In France, Axway's revenue reached 19.7m over the quarter, representing 28% of total revenue. The activity continued to progress strongly, with quarterly organic growth of 32.4%, driven by the buoyancy of the Subscription business, up almost 130% compared with Q3 2022, on the back of significant Customer Managed bookings over the period. The Rest of Europe zone generated organic growth of 7.9% in Q3 2023, with revenues of 15.7m, representing 23% of total revenue. The region saw strong growth in Subscription and Services activities, particularly in Germany, offsetting a contraction in business in the UK. The Americas (USA and Latin America) posted revenue of 29.8m between July and September 2023 (43% of total revenue), thanks to organic growth of 4.0%. While the region benefited from historic contracts that kept License sales stable year on year, the Subscription activity stood out with organic growth of around 30% over the quarter. In Asia/Pacific, Axway recorded revenue of 4.2m in Q3 2023 (6% of total revenue), virtually stable organically compared to the previous year (-0.7%). In this geographic zone, customers largely favored Axway Managed Subscription contracts thus limiting revenue growth despite good sales momentum. Financial position at September 30, 2023 At September 30, 2023, Axway had cash of 15.1m and net debt of 76.6m. Axway's bank lines, in place through 2027, provide financing of up to 125.0m. Axway highlights that, if necessary, it has access to additional financing capacity under its existing revolving credit facility. 2023 Targets & Outlook For the full year, Axway expects to achieve the upper end of its targets for both organic revenue growth (between 0 and 3%) and profit on operating activities (15 to 18% of revenue). Axway's medium-term ambitions remain: to achieve revenue of 500m through organic growth and acquisitions;

to deliver an operating margin on business activity approaching 20% of revenue. Financial Calendar Wednesday, February 21, 2024, after market closing: Publication of 2023 Full-Year Results

Wednesday, February 21, 2024, 6:30 pm (UTC+1): 2023 Full-Year Results Virtual Analyst Conference Glossary and Alternative Performance Measures ACV: Annual Contract Value - Annual contract value of a subscription agreement.

ARR: Annual Recurring Revenue - Expected annual billing amounts from all active maintenance and subscription agreements.

Employee Engagement Score: Measurement of employee engagement through an independent annual survey.

Growth at constant exchange rates: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period restated for exchange rate impacts.

NPS: Net Promoter Score - Customer satisfaction and recommendation indicator for a company.

Organic growth: Growth in revenue between the period under review and the prior period, restated for consolidation scope and exchange rate impacts.

Profit on operating activities: Profit from recurring operations adjusted for the non-cash share-based payment expense, as well as the amortization of allocated intangible assets.

Restated revenue: Revenue for the prior year, adjusted for the consolidation scope and exchange rates of the current year.

TCV: Total Contract Value - Full contracted value of a subscription agreement over the contract term. Disclaimer This press release contains forward-looking statements that may be subject to various risks and uncertainties concerning Axway's growth and profitability, notably in the event of future acquisitions. Axway highlights that signature of contracts, which represent investments for customers, are more significant in the second half of the year and may therefore have a more or less favorable impact on full-year performance. In addition, Axway notes that potential acquisition(s) could also impact this financial data. Furthermore, activity during the year and/or actual results may differ from those described in this document as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties set out in the 2022 Universal Registration Document filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorite des Marches Financiers, AMF) on March 24, 2023. The distribution of this document in certain countries may be subject to prevailing laws and regulations. Natural persons present in these countries and in which this document is disseminated, published, or distributed, should obtain information about such restrictions, and comply with them. About Axway Axway enables enterprises to securely open everything by integrating and moving data across a complex world of new and old technologies. Axway's API-driven B2B integration and MFT software, refined over 20 years, complements Axway Amplify, an open API management platform that makes APIs easier to discover and reuse across multiple teams, vendors, and cloud environments. Axway has helped over 11,000 businesses unlock the full value of their existing digital ecosystems to create brilliant experiences, innovate new services, and reach new markets. Learn more at axway.com Appendices (1/1) Axway Software: Revenue by business line YTD - 9 Months 2023 (m) 9M 2023 9M 2022

Restated* 9M 2022

Reported Total

Growth Organic

Growth License 5.7 7.3 8.6 -34.3% -22.7% Subscription 115.7 76.8 83.2 38.9% 50.6% Maintenance 65.7 81.8 84.3 -22.0% -19.6% Services 27.8 27.4 27.8 -0.1% 1.4% Axway Software 214.8 193.3 203.9 5.3% 11.1% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Axway Software: Revenue by geographic area YTD - 9 Months 2023 (m) 9M 2023 9M 2022

Restated* 9M 2022

Reported Total

Growth Organic

Growth France 65.1 52.1 52.8 23.4% 25.1% Rest of Europe 51.3 41.1 41.9 22.6% 24.9% Americas 87.1 85.4 93.6 -7.0% 2.0% Asia/Pacific 11.3 14.7 15.6 -28.0% -23.5% Axway Software 214.8 193.3 203.9 5.3% 11.1% * Revenue at 2023 scope and exchange rates Axway Software: Impact on revenue of changes in scope and exchange rates YTD - 9 months 2023 (m) 9M 2023 9M 2022 Growth Revenue 214.8 203.9 5.3% Changes in exchange rates -2.5 Revenue at constant exchange rates 214.8 201.4 6.6% Changes in scope -8.1 Revenue at constant scope and exchange rates 214.8 193.3 11.1% Axway Software: Changes in exchange rates YTD - 9 months 2023

For 1 Average rate

9M 2023 Average rate

9M 2022 Change US Dollar 1.083 1.064 - 1.8% ___________________________

1 See Glossary and Alternative Performance Measures View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025731549/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Merck India hosts 5th Merck-Tagore Award: Honours Professor Dr. Ram Adhar Mall for promoting Intercultural Exchange between India and Germany Tweet

MUMBAI, India and BANGALORE, India, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Merck, a leading science and technology company, in collaboration with Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan India, the official cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany, presented Professor Dr. Ram Adhar Mall with the prestigious fifth Merck-Tagore Award during a celebratory event held at the Goethe-Institute /Max Mueller Bhavan in Bangalore, India. A pioneer of Intercultural Philosophy, Professor Mall was recognized for his contribution to the intercultural exchange between India and Germany. Professor Mall is the Founder and President of the global 'Society for Intercultural Philosophy' and serves as a co-editor for the publication 'Studies on Intercultural Philosophy'. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of the Executive Board and the Family Board of E. Merck KG, handed over the award to Professor Ram Adhar Mall. Addressing the audience in Bangalore, Stangenberg-Haverkamp said, "The foundation of Merck's success is scientific progress and technological innovation. These depend on curious minds  and on an open exchange of thoughts and ideas across borders and cultural boundaries. Literature and philosophy can be strong catalysts of exactly this. They let us see things from a different perspective. They can open the door to new ways of thinking and to a better understanding of our world. As challenges from climate change to diseases urgently require solutions on a global scale, intercultural dialogue has never been more important. In other words, Rabindranath Tagore's legacy is more relevant than ever today." The jury of the fifth edition of the Merck-Tagore Award consisted of Achim Fabig, Consul General, Federal Republic of Germany, Mumbai, Bjorn Ketels, Director, Goethe-Institut /Max Mueller Bhavan Mumbai, Sreenath Narayanaiah, Managing Director, Merck Life Science Pvt. Ltd. as well as Dr. Martin Kampchen, the first recipient of the Merck-Tagore Award. During his cceptance speech, which was about Rabindranath Tagore and Intercultural Philosophical Orientation, Dr Ram Adhar Mall proposed an intercultural philosophical orientation in curriculum, teaching, and research. He later added, "I am very happy that the work that I have done till now has received recognition and it got recognition in a way that is both German and Indian!"



Pratima Reddy, Country Speaker, Merck India added, "Curiosity plays a vital role in nurturing a scientific mindset, and the realms of art, culture, and literature act as catalysts, igniting and sustaining this curiosity. In line with our core values, Merck takes great pride in the Merck-Tagore Award, which celebrates accomplishments in the humanities. It is our distinct honour at Merck to bestow the award upon Professor Dr. Ram Adhar Mall, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to promoting intercultural exchange between India and Germany." About Professor Dr. Ram Adhar Mall, Winner of the Merck-Tagore Award 2023

Hailing from Mumbai, India, Professor Dr. Ram Adhar Mall pursued his academic career in philosophy and the history of psychology of India and Europe. He has taught at several German universities and is currently dedicated to presenting a unique comparative survey of various philosophical systems. Professor Dr. Mall now lives in the Bonn, Germany area and continues to be active as a visiting professor. Among the works he has published are 'Philosophy in Comparison of Cultures' and 'Intercultural Philosophy - a New Orientation' (Scientific Book Society, Darmstadt, Germany, 1995) as well as 'Hinduism - Its position in the diversity of religions' (Primus-Verlag, Darmstadt, Germany, 1997). About the Merck-Tagore Award The Merck-Tagore Award, sponsored by Merck India, and granted by the Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan India, was introduced in 2012 to honour the life and work of Rabindranath Tagore. This award is one of four literary prizes sponsored and promoted by Merck on a global basis. It is granted to writers and scholars who have made a special contribution to cultural exchange between Germany and India. Merck has a historical connection with Rabindranath Tagore. Within the Merck family, Elisabeth Wolff-Merck took on the task of translating Tagore's theatrical piece 'Chitra' from English into German. Her husband, Kurt Wolff, played a pivotal role in publishing Tagore's works in Germany, contributing significantly to the poet's recognition and acclaim in this country. About Goethe-Institut The Goethe-Institut (known in India as Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan) is the Federal Republic of Germany's cultural institute, active worldwide. It promotes the study of German abroad and encourages international cultural exchange. The Goethe-Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan's main areas of interest are determined in consultation with its Indian cooperation partners from the fields of art, science and media, from NGOs and select companies, with whom it jointly develops appropriate programmes and projects. The Institute's activities range from film screenings, exhibitions, theatre performances and concerts to workshops and conferences particularly on innovative topics such as digital, AI and media art. The Institute also initiates and organises contacts and research/residency tours for Indian artists, scientists and journalists who wish to go to Germany, thereby supporting them as promoters of culture and paving the way for deeper international and cultural cooperation. About Merck Merck, a leading science and technology company, operates across life science, healthcare and electronics. More than 64,000 employees work to make a positive difference to millions of people's lives every day by creating more joyful and sustainable ways to live. From providing products and services that accelerate drug development and manufacturing as well as discovering unique ways to treat the most challenging diseases to enabling the intelligence of devices  the company is everywhere. In 2022, Merck generated sales of  22.2 billion in 66 countries. Scientific exploration and responsible entrepreneurship have been key to Merck's technological and scientific advances. This is how Merck has thrived since its founding in 1668. The founding family remains the majority owner of the publicly listed company. Merck holds the global rights to the Merck name and brand. The only exceptions are the United States and Canada, where the business sectors of Merck operate as Millipore Sigma in life science, EMD Serono in healthcare, and EMD Electronics in electronics. All Merck news releases are distributed by email at the same time they become available on the Merck website. Please go to www.merckgroup.com/ subscribe to register online, change your selection or discontinue this service. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258251/Merck_Tagore_Award.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/merck-india-hosts-5th-merck-tagore-award-honours-professor-dr-ram-adhar-mall-for-promoting-intercultural-exchange-between-india-and-germany-301968340.html

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[October 26, 2023] Mydecine Provides Q4 2023 Business Update Tweet

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mydecine Innovations Group Inc. (Mydecine or the Company) (CSE:MYCO) (AQSE:MYIG) (OTC:MYCOF) (FSE:0NFA), a biotechnology company engineering the next wave of innovative medications and treatment protocols to directly address mental health with a particular emphasis on addiction and PTSD with psychedelic therapeutics, is pleased to address its shareholders and provide a general update on the Company's progress.

The Company has spent the past few months diligently working to simplify its business model, streamline workflow and processes, and reduce burn rate while increasing output and efficiencies in order to ensure the Company's future success. Through this process, the Company has made a number of strategic decisions that it believes will substantially benefit shareholders and increase the probability of long-term success. Through this transformation, the Company has become a true preclinical biopharmaceutical platform whose primary focus is the development of novel next-generation, improved drugs, using first-generation psychedelic compounds as a model or starting point. The Company believes that to have a truly successful drug for shareholders and patients, several structural changes and improvements must be made to the first-generation MDMA and Psilocybin/Psilocin compounds, including but not limited to faster onset, increased safety, significantly reduced half-life, elimination of certain undesirable side effects, and selective receptor binding, all while maintaining the high efficacy rates observed in generation one psychedelic compounds. The exclusive partnership between the Company and Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation, which houses the company's drug discovery and development efforts at the University of Alberta, has been maintained and strengthened. The University of Alberta consistently rates in the top five in the world for AI drug development. As part of the Canadian Critical Drug Initiative, the Canadian Government recently awarded Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API) a grant of CAD 80.5 million. This funding will be used to enhance the 72,000-square-foot Biotechnology Business Development Centre and build a new 40,000 square-foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing center with the capacity to produce 70 million drug doses per year. Through its partnership with API, the Company is able to effectively leverage API's and the University of Alberta's world-class facilities and human resources, while retaining full custody of all intellectual property, inventions, and research produced. Channeling its MYCO-005, MYCO-006, and MYCO-007 families of novel, patent-pending second-generation MDMA and Psilocybin analogs through API, the Company believes it has the best chance to achieve its objective of enhancing the global pharmaceutical landscape with these new molecules. This confidence is supported by significant positive pre-clinical and animal data compiled by the Company. The Company is rapidly advancing its leading candidates toward impending human clinical trials and anticipates providing significant updates in the near future. Josh Bartch, CEO and Chairman of the Company stated, "We've been working diligently, but the last few years have been extremely difficult for the entire industry and our company. Through adversity, Mydecine has become a more robust, well-managed, streamlined, efficient, and productive organization with a high likelihood of success. Recently, the industry has witnessed several strong catlysts that we believe provide a glimpse into the future, such as large successful financings with very notable participants, open market buys by notable investors such as Steve Cohen, MAPS publishing their second and final phase 3 with incredibly strong results and gearing up for FDA approval in early 2024, Mindset Pharma being acquired by Otsuka, and many others." Josh also mentioned, "Our robust drug pipeline is full, and we believe we have made the necessary improvements to generation one drugs to maximize the commercial viability and monetization of psychedelic medicine. We look forward to sharing with you a multitude of incredibly thrilling developments soon."



About Mydecine Innovations Group Inc. Mydecine Innovations Group is a publicly traded, pre-revenue biopharmaceutical company that began operations in North America and Europe in early 2020. Mydecine was founded to increase physicians' access to serotonin-modulating medicine. Recent research has demonstrated the therapeutic potential of psychedelic substances such as psilocybin and MDMA for treating intractable conditions such as pain, anxiety, depression, addiction, and PTSD, along with neurodegenerative disorders. Mydecine believes these compounds can be safer, more effective, and more accessible for patients and medical professionals through modern drug chemistry paired with artificial intelligence (AI). Through its exclusive partnership with Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation based at the University of Alberta, Mydecine is developing innovative medications for target indications with high mortality rates that have lacked innovation for decades and are controlled by dominant corporations. Mydecine developed several prodrug families, beginning with a psilocybin-derived smoking cessation drug undergoing a NIDA-funded trial at Johns Hopkins University. Mydecine is also developing MYCO-006short-acting chemical analogs derived from MDMA for treating various conditions, including anxiety and pain. Mydecine utilizes cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and pharma research infrastructure at the University of Alberta to develop and manufacture new medications to make them affordable and accessible to the general public upon Health Canada and FDA approval. The Mydecine team is enthusiastic about its mission and is dedicated to creating a positive difference in the lives of others.

The Directors of Mydecine take responsibility for this announcement. Learn more at https://www.mydecine.com . For more information, please contact:

Media Contact:

[email protected] Investor Relations:

[email protected] On behalf of the Board of Directors:

Joshua Bartch, Chief Executive Officer

[email protected] For further information about Mydecine Innovations Group, Inc., please visit the Companys profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com or the Companys website at www.mydecine.com . This news release contains forward-looking information about Canadian securities laws regarding the Company and its business. It relates to future events or performance and reflects managements expectations and assumptions. Often but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as expect, intends, anticipated, believes, or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or by stating that specific actions, events, or results may, "could," "would, or will be taken, occur, or be achieved. Such forward-looking statements reflect managements beliefs and are based on assumptions and information currently available to the Company. Readers 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, including, without limitation, risks regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, the availability and continuity of financing, the ability of the Company to protect and enforce its intellectual property adequately, the Company's ability to bring its products to commercial production, the continued growth of the global adaptive pathway medicine, natural health products, and digital health industries, and the risks presented by the highly regulated and competitive market concerning the development, production, sale, and use of the Company's products. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, other factors may cause effects not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. There can be no assurance that such information will be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof. The Company is not obligated to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances as required under applicable securities legislation.



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[October 26, 2023] John Linden, Co-founder / CEO of Mythical Games and Former Studio Head of Activision Blizzard (Call of Duty), Joins Oobit Advisory Board Tweet

Vilnius, Lithuania, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Oobit is thrilled to announce that John Linden, a renowned figure in the gaming industry and a pioneer in the world of Web3 gaming, has joined its advisory board. With his extensive experience and visionary insights, John will play a pivotal role in helping Oobit navigate the exciting possibilities that Web3 gaming and crypto payments bring to the forefront. Web3 gaming represents the gaming industry's future, with blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) revolutionizing how players interact with digital assets and in-game economies. As the CEO of Mythical Games, a company dedicated to building player-owned economies and partnering with leading game developers and publishers, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Oobit advisory board. Under his leadership, Mythical Games became a unicorn company as John has spearheaded groundbreaking projects, including the first game, Blankos.com, which exemplifies the potentia of blockchain technology in gaming. Furthermore, John played a pivotal role in his previous position, where he was responsible for initiatives such as Call of Duty: Elite and expanding the Call of Duty franchise into mobile.



John Linden shared, "Web3 technologies are reshaping how we interact with digital assets, creating exciting opportunities for innovation. I am thrilled to join Oobit's advisory board and contribute to their mission of establishing an accessible gateway for Web3 payments for everyday consumers. I see Oobits technology as a strong way for gamers to easily be part of a tradeable economy from their favorite games while having access to use these assets in their everyday lives. Oobit, a leading mobile payment app, empowers gamers with a way to spend their web3 gaming tokens anywhere, seamlessly connecting the world of play-to-earn with everyday transactions, offering a user experience as smooth and convenient as Apple Pay.

Amram Adar, CEO of Oobit, remarked, "We are excited to have John Linden on board. His insights and experience will be invaluable as we strive to facilitate the seamless spending of tokens earned through Web3 gaming and play-to-earn activities." Oobit's mission to establish itself as the gateway for Web3 payments perfectly complements John's expertise in the Web3 gaming economy. As Oobit actively enhances its capabilities to bridge the divide between the burgeoning sectors of Web3, DeFi, and everyday payments. The company is committed to driving mass adoption and establishing itself as a pivotal player in the Web3 payments ecosystem. About Oobit

Oobit is a leading mobile payment app that offers a seamless way to pay with crypto both in-store and globally. Users can enjoy a crypto Tap & Pay experience as convenient and smooth as Apple Pay, utilizing existing Visa / Mastercard point-of-sale systems while ensuring merchants receive fiat currency. Since 2017, Oobit has been spearheading the mass adoption of cryptocurrencies as a means of payment for goods and services. The app is designed to provide a secure, practical, and user-friendly solution for individuals to utilize their crypto in everyday transactions effortlessly. About Mythical Games Acknowledged by Forbes Disruptive Technology Companies To Watch in 2019 and Fast Companys World Changing Ideas 2021, Mythical is a next-generation games technology company creating a web3 gaming ecosystem by leveraging blockchain technology and playable NFTs for tools that enable players, creators, artists, brands and game developers to become stakeholders and owners in new "play and own" game economies. Led by gaming industry veterans, the team specializes in building games around player-owned economies and has helped develop major franchises including Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Guitar Hero, DJ Hero, Marvel Strike Force, and Skylanders. Mythical Platform protects gamers that may be new to blockchain through a custodial wallet for their digital items while allowing advanced players the freedom to link their own wallets via bridges between the Mythical Chain and public mainnets. With its "gamers-first" focus, the Mythical Platform ensures players dont need to dive into the intricacies of blockchain to enjoy ownership of their digital collections and have a great game experience.

Media Contact: Araminta Bloom [email protected]

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[October 26, 2023]

Sandvik strengthens position in electrical vehicles with acquisition of software supplier esco GmbH

STOCKHOLM, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandvik has signed an agreement to acquire esco GmbH engineering solutions consulting, a German-based supplier of software for power skiving, an important technology within gear machining. Esco's software solutions supports design, production and quality inspection in the main area of gear manufacturing. The company will be reported in Sandvik Coromant, a division within Sandvik Manufacturing and Machining Solutions.

Power skiving is a high-growth premium niche market, with strong underlying drivers such as the increasing electrification in the automotive sector. This shift is changing manufacturing requirements in the gear market, and power skiving offers high productivity and flexibility, and enables reduced cycle times compared to conventional machining methods.

"The acquisition of esco fits very well with our strategic focus to grow within key high-growth industry segments, in this case the area of gear machining for electric vehicles," says Stefan Widing, President and CEO of Sandvik.

Esco, founded in 1993, has around 17 employees and is headquartered in Aachen, Germany. In 2022, the company generated revenues of about SEK 14 million. The impact on Sandvik's EBITA margin and earnings per share will be limited.

Stockholm, October 26, 2023

Sandvik AB

For further information, contact Louise Tjeder, VP Investor relations, phone: +46 (0) 70782 6374 or Johannes Hellstrom, Press and Media Relations Manager, phone: +46 (0) 70721 1008.

The following files are available for download:









https://mb.cision.com/Main/208/3862414/2386646.pdf Sandvik strengthens position in electrical vehicles with acquisition of software supplier esco GmbH



View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sandvik-strengthens-position-in-electrical-vehicles-with-acquisition-of-software-supplier-esco-gmbh-301968492.html

SOURCE Sandvik
A man looks at a BYD electric vehicle in Budapest, Hungary, Oct. 17, 2023. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has taken a leap in its global expansion by launching the sale of its new energy vehicles in Hungary on Tuesday. (Photo by Attila Volgyi/Xinhua)

GUANGZHOU, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- This year has seen a new trend in China's auto market: The sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) from domestic automakers such as BYD and GAC Aion continue to rise, while joint venture brands face a decline in sales or even suspended production.

Recently, Japan's Mitsubishi Motors announced it will end its local production of Mitsubishi-brand vehicles in China and transfer its stake in a joint venture in China to its Chinese partner, Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (GAC Group).

After restructuring is completed, GAC Mitsubishi's production capacity will be accepted by GAC Aion, an NEV subsidiary of GAC Group based in Guangzhou, the capital of south China's Guangdong Province.

On July 3, GAC Aion produced China's 20 millionth NEV in Guangzhou -- a remarkable milestone for the country's NEV sector.

As China's NEV market maintains its strong growth momentum, new partnerships between foreign and domestic car brands have also been forged.

Volkswagen in July reached an agreement to buy a 4.99 percent stake in Chinese electric vehicle startup Xpeng and co-develop two electric vehicle (EV) models for the Chinese market.

The deal attracted significant attention as it gave Volkswagen access to Xpeng's technologies, including its advanced driving assistance system, contributing to its efforts to tap into China's fast-growing EV market.

Their cooperation was a major milestone in China's intelligent EV manufacturing and an important sign that China's car-making abilities are recognized by the world's leading carmakers, Shenwan Hongyuan Securities said in a research note.

For decades, the Chinese auto industry has pursued the improvement of its innovation capacities in fields ranging from whole vehicles to communication modules, power chips and other electronic components.

World-leading auto parts supplier Valeo, which is headquartered in France, launched the Valeo (Shenzhen) intelligent manufacturing center earlier this year.

The center expects its sales to maintain a high annual growth rate of over 20 percent for the next five years, said Zhou Song, president of Valeo China.

"Shenzhen has a relatively complete new energy automobile industry foundation. Its resources and advantages in the development of the intelligent car industry strengthen our confidence," Zhou said.

China's NEV giant BYD has released a forecast of its net profits in the first three quarters of this year, estimating the total at 20.5 billion yuan (about 2.86 billion U.S. dollars) to 22.5 billion yuan, an increase of more than 120 percent year on year. It also noted that its cumulative NEV sales have already exceeded 5.4 million units.

Market analysts believe that China's auto consumption potential remains resilient, and foreign auto companies have broad space for development in China.

In 2022, China's new energy passenger cars had a 63 percent share of the world's new energy passenger car market, according to the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).

"The rise of domestic Chinese car brands indicates the high-quality development of China's automobile industry, particularly its more competitive new energy vehicles," said Cui Dongshu, secretary general of the CPCA. 
[October 26, 2023] ZTE paves the way to a "Thriving Broadband Digitalization" at Broadband User Congress 2023 Tweet

400 attendees from nearly 100 companies participated in ZTE 's Broadband User Congress 2023

After two decades of investment and innovation in Latin America, ZTE is committed to an era of infinite evolution for thriving broadband digitalization

Cutting-edge solutions were presented to accelerate FTTx evolution, innovate home services, advance transport modernization, and empower enterprise connectivity MEXICO CITY, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ -- ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, today has kicked off the Broadband User Congress 2023 in Mexico City, Mexico. ZTE hosted the Broadband User Congress with the theme of "Thriving Broadband Digitalization" from 17-18 October, 2023. Distinguished thought leaders, industry partners, leading analysts from IFT, ATIM, GSMA, GlobalData and top-tier operators, among others, participated in the event to share their key insights. This 2-day event has attracted over 400 attendees from nearly 100 companies, and it featured more than 50 speakers discussing topics such as Development Trends of Telecom and Broadband, Broadband Ecosystem, Wi-Fi Technology, Broadband Use Cases, and more. "Over the past two decades, ZTE has joined hands with telecom operators in Latin America. Our long-term investment and innovation in underlying technology have earned the trust from customers," highlighted Peng Aiguang, Senior Vice President at ZTE. "Together, we embark on a remarkable journey towards a new era, a future of infinity evolution." During the event, ZTE presented its cutting-edge production solutions across four main topics. Firstly, they discussed accelerating FTTx evolution with an XGS-PON upgade, HFC to fiber migration, and lightweight and visible ODN. Secondly, they focused on innovating home services with mature Wi-Fi 6 technology, video IP transformation covering all application scenarios, an enhanced Android TV ecosystem, and the SCP platform for convenient management. The third topic addressed advancing transport modernization with FMC and a 5G-driven IP Network, along with the All-Scenario OTN. Finally, the event emphasized empowering enterprise connectivity with FTTR-B solutions for all scales of enterprises, ToB-oriented transport, and data center networks.



Leveraging our extensive history of collaboration with Latin American customers and a profound understanding of telco needs, ZTE's broadband network strategy is focused on constructing next-generation all-optical networks. Our goal is to deliver an enhanced service experience to individuals, households, and organizations across the region. To date, ZTE has comfortably held the No.1 position for both PON CPE and DSL CPE shipments, with its PON ONTs being rated "Leader" in GlobalData's latest FTTP ratings report. ZTE's CPE device shipments have exceeded 540 million units globally, and the company also leads in the global IP STB market while being the foremost Android TV STB provider worldwide.

Additionally, high-performance servers, typical wireless and power solutions are showcased together. The ZTE Global Services Ecosystem Forum was also successfully conducted during the event. The forum brought together key partners and industry experts from nearly 30 companies and organizations in the European and American regions. They engaged in discussions and shared insights on digital and intelligent network service trends, solutions and cases studies under the theme of "Ultimate Service for a Win-Win Future." ABOUT ZTE: ZTE helps to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future. The company provides innovative technologies and integrated solutions, its portfolio spans all series of wireless, wireline, devices and professional telecommunications services. Serving over a quarter of the global population, ZTE is dedicated to creating a digital and intelligent ecosystem, and enabling connectivity and trust everywhere. ZTE is listed on both the Hong Kong and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges. www.zte.com.cn/global FOLLOW US: Facebook www.facebook.com/ZTECorp

Twitter www.twitter.com/ZTEPress

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/zte

YouTube www.youtube.com/@ZTECorporation MEDIA INQUIRIES: ZTE Corporation

Communications

Email: [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zte-paves-the-way-to-a-thriving-broadband-digitalization-at-broadband-user-congress-2023-301968541.html SOURCE ZTE Corporation

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[October 26, 2023] ServiceNow announces strategic partnership with ANSR to power global capability centers on the Now Platform Tweet

ANSR to establish ServiceNow Centers of Excellence in more than 60 Global Capability Centers (GCCs) to train 3,500 people across India on ServiceNow

on ServiceNow ANSR to power its own internal GCC service delivery on ServiceNow, including Now Assist generative AI capabilities

ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures program joins existing ANSR (an Accel Portfolio company) investors to accelerate growth in key global markets through increasing skilled talent and driving greater customer adoption of ServiceNow. BANGALORE, India, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), the leading digital workflow company making the world work better for everyone, and ANSR, a market expert in building, managing, and scaling teams through Global Capability Centers (GCCs), today announced a strategic partnership to power GCCs on the Now Platform. The ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures program joins existing ANSR (an Accel Portfolio company) investors to accelerate growth in key global markets. The partnership will help increase talent capacity for ANSR clients by establishing ServiceNow Centers of Excellence in more than 60 GCCs to train 3,500 individuals across India. The collaboration will also allow ANSR to power its own internal GCC service delivery on ServiceNow, including Now Assist generative AI capabilities. The investment is part of the ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures program, launched in May 2023 to accelerate partner growth in key global markets through increasing skilled talent and driving greater customer adoption of ServiceNow. ServiceNow's investment enables partners to expand their go-to-market capabilities and enhance their proficiency in ServiceNow's technology and solutions to deliver fast time to value. According to non-profit Nasscom, as well as the India Brand Equity Foundation, India is home to 45% of the world's GCCs and it is estimated that more than 4.5 million people will work in a local GCC by 2030. To prepare the workforce for this opportunity, and to meet the increasing demand for professionals trained on ServiceNow, ANSR's new ServiceNow Centers of Excellence will equip a world-class pool of individuals across India with the future-ready technology and interpersonal skills needed to support ANSR corporate clients, which include some of the world's largest Fortune 500 brands.



"ServiceNow is committed to strengthening our talent and investment in India, one of our fastest-growing markets globally," said David Parsons, senior vice president of Ecosystem Ventures at ServiceNow. "As a market leader in India, ANSR provides a distinctive opportunity to seamlessly integrate ServiceNow into their GCCs to enable end-to-end automation for some of the most prominent Fortune 500 enterprises around the world." "GCCs are increasingly becoming hubs for innovation, excellence, and digital capabilities," said Lalit Ahuja, founder and CEO at ANSR. "ANSR, in partnership with ServiceNow, we will apply the GenAI-enabled Now Platform across GCCs at a significant scale, fostering their growth and positioning them as key strategic partners for enterprises. In addition, ANSR is re-platforming its GCC service delivery portfolio to the ServiceNow Platform in our efforts to rapidly innovate and scale our business."

By re-platforming its own GCC service delivery on ServiceNow, ANSR plans to deliver an integrated approach to 40,000 GCC employees who need faster, more seamless access to services across HR, finance, IT and the workplace. Re-platforming to ServiceNow includes integrating Now Assist, ServiceNow's generative AI experience, to help reduce time spent on operational activities, increase productivity, and improve overall employee satisfaction. Recent additional ServiceNow Ecosystem Ventures investments include Blueship Co.,Ltd and Japan System Co., Ltd, both leaders in the local Japanese public sector IT industry. To learn more about ServiceNow's Ecosystem Ventures program, visit here. www.servicenow.com. About ServiceNow ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW) is making the world of work, work better for people. Our cloud-based platform and solutions deliver digital workflows that create great experiences and unlock productivity for employees and the enterprise. For more information, visit: www.servicenow.com.  2023 ServiceNow, Inc. All rights reserved. ServiceNow, the ServiceNow logo, Now, and other ServiceNow marks are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other company names, product names, and logos may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated. About ANSR ANSR, an Accel Ventures portfolio company is the market leader in enabling organizations build, manage and scale global teams through Global Capability Centers (GCCs). ANSR's suite of end-to-end AI-enabled products and services are trusted by the world's best companies to help them setup, manage and run their high-impact technology centers. Since its inception, ANSR has established over 110 GCCs aggregating to over 120k enterprise talent with over $2B in investment and using over 12M sq ft of workspace. Visit ansr.com for more information. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258288/ServiceNow_partnership_with_ANSR.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/servicenow-announces-strategic-partnership-with-ansr-to-power-global-capability-centers-on-the-now-platform-301968496.html

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[October 26, 2023] Department of Home Affairs, Australia, awards global biometric collection service to VFS Global Tweet

MUMBAI, India, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Department of Home Affairs, Australia, has awarded the global biometric collection service across seven regions to VFS Global, the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. The agreement spanning Australian biometric collection centres (ABCC) at 165 locations worldwide include new geographies in addition to existing locations operated by VFS Global. Awarded regions comprise Americas, Mekong, Middle East and North Africa, North Asia, Pacific, South Asia and Southeast Asia. According to the agreement, VFS Global's core services include Biometric Collection and Identity Verification, Digital Assistance with online visa applications submission and Online Payment Assistance on the Department's ImmiAccount portal. The company would also provide additional (as required services) such as remote interview hosting, document and claim checking, paper digitisation and local addressing and document delivery. The roll out would take place in two broad phases with 59 centres to be operational by the January 1, 2024 and the rest under the phase 2 in line with the department's directives. "Over many years the department and VFS Global have enjoyed a successful partnership, during which VFS Global have continued to demonstrate flexibility as the department's needs have evolved over time We look forward to the continued growth of this partnership and roll out of the biometrics collection program under the new agreement," said Anthony Phillips, Director of In-Person Services and Support, Department of Home Affairs.



"This global award is another testament of our business excellence and trusted partnership with the Department of Home Affairs, Australia. We have been working with the department since 2004 and we will continue to elevate the experience of travellers across the world bound to Australia," said Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer VFS Global. The agreement also marks the maiden opening of Australian biometric collection centres (ABCC) by VFS Global in the Americas region.

Recently, VFS Global also renewed its global visa contract for Sweden. As part of this, Sweden visa applications will be accepted across eight VFS Global visa application centres (VACs) in India including Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi and Pune. The two recent wins demonstrate the company's commitment to providing best-in-class visa solutions and elevating consumer experience, amid a strong travel resurgence. About VFS Global VFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. VFS Global is the trusted partner of 70 client governments, operating a global network with more than 3,300 Application Centres in 147 countries. The company has processed over 268 million applications since its inception in 2001. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical assessment task. VFS Global has its headquarters in Zurich/Switzerland and Dubai/United Arab Emirates. VFS Global is majority-owned by funds managed by Blackstone, the world's largest alternative asset manager. Blackstone seeks to create positive economic impact and long-term value for their investors, the companies in which they invest, and the communities in which they work. Blackstone's USD 991 billion in assets under management include investment vehicles focused on private equity, real estate, public debt and equity, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, opportunistic, non-investment grade credit, real assets, and secondary funds, all on a global basis. The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, a global investment organisation, headquartered in Stockholm/Sweden, hold minority stakes in VFS Global. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258259/VFS_Global_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/department-of-home-affairs-australia-awards-global-biometric-collection-service-to-vfs-global-301968633.html SOURCE VFS Global

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[October 26, 2023] Bridging the Future: Limitless Space Institute and IHS Towers Launch STEM Initiative for Brazil and Nigeria Tweet

HOUSTON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Limitless Space Institute (LSI) today announced a new partnership with IHS Towers that will encourage students in Brazil and Nigeria to pursue careers in STEM and space exploration. Twenty educators from Brazil and Nigeria will be invited to join the 12-month Limitless Global Educator Program and access a carefully curated space education curriculum. Delivered by experts from the Limitless Space Institute, educators will benefit from monthly virtual workshops with insights from guest speakers on space exploration, an invitation to attend the LSI Institute in Houston, Texas, for one week and in-person visits from Limitless Space Institute representatives to Brazil and Nigeria for hands-on workshops. Kaci Heins, Director of the Limitless Space Institute, commented, "We are thrilled to collaborate with IHS Towers in our pursuit to elevate global STEM education. Educators and students are the heart of the future STEM workforce and space xploration. An energized educator lights the path for our future problem solvers and explorers. Space exploration is a symbol for global cooperation, and we are thrilled to empower educators in Brazil and Nigeria."



Sam Darwish, Chairman & CEO, IHS Towers, said, "I am incredibly excited to announce our partnership with the Limitless Space Institute, as we seek to continue strengthening education opportunities with a particular focus on increasing access to STEM subjects. Engineering excellence is IHS' lifeblood, and we could not be prouder to support the Limitless Space Institute's mission to equip educators globally with the resources and experiences they need to teach science and technology." About Limitless Space Institute: Limitless Space Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire and educate the next generation to travel beyond our solar system and to research and develop enabling technologies. LSI advances the pursuit of relevant deep space exploration R&D through in-house research, fellowships, grants, outreach, education, and educator professional development. For more information, please visit: https://www.limitlessspace.org/global-educators/

About IHS Towers: IHS Towers is one of the largest independent owners, operators and developers of shared communications infrastructure in the world by tower count and is one of the largest independent multinational towercos solely focused on the emerging markets. The Company has nearly 40,000 towers across its 11 markets, including Brazil, Cameroon, Colombia, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt, Kuwait, Nigeria, Peru, Rwanda, South Africa and Zambia. For more information, please email: [email protected] or visit: https://www.ihstowers.com/br-pt View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bridging-the-future-limitless-space-institute-and-ihs-towers-launch-stem-initiative-for-brazil-and-nigeria-301968054.html SOURCE Limitless Space Institute, Inc.

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[October 26, 2023] WELL Health's Cycura Announces Two Tuck-In Acquisitions to Enhance Patient Data Protection and Appoints New Management Tweet

WELL's Cybersecurity Business Unit, Cycura, has acquired Seekintoo, a provider of Cybersecurity Operations Center services, ensuring enterprise clients receive 24/7 vigilant threat protection through managed detection.

Cycura has also acquired Proack, a premier provider of offensive security assessments, including high quality penetration testing, red teaming, social engineering, and infrastructure testing.

WELL is pleased to announce new appointees to Cycura's management team, including Paul Morgan , Cycura's new CEO who previously served as Seekintoo's CEO.

, Cycura's new CEO who previously served as Seekintoo's CEO. Cycura now supports over 200,000 end-users, many of which support mission critical healthcare functions, extends cybersecurity protection to more than 10,000 servers, and serves approximately 190 corporate and government entities across North America . VANCOUVER, BC and TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - WELL Health Technologies Corp. (TSX: WELL) (OTCQX: WHTCF) ("WELL"), a digital healthcare company focused on positively impacting health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower healthcare practitioners and their patients globally, is pleased to announce the acquisitions of Seekintoo Ltd. ("Seekintoo") and Proack Security Inc. ("Proack") by WELL's Cybersecurity Business Unit, Cycura. Amir Javidan, Chief Operating Officer of WELL, commented, "We are thrilled to welcome the Seekintoo and Proack teams to Cycura. These acquisitions demonstrate WELL and Cycura's steadfast commitment to safeguarding patient trust and operational integrity. WELL has bolstered its cybersecurity portfolio with two strategic, tuck-in acquisitions, bringing onboard seasoned cybersecurity professionals in the process, and strengthening our capability to serve over 190 corporate and government customers across North America." Iain Paterson, Chief Security Officer of WELL, stated, "Proactively identifying and mitigating threats remains at the forefront of our cybersecurity roadmap. These newly acquired capabilities signify our commitment to protecting and further advancing theempowerment of patient health information (PHI) at scale. As the digital landscape of healthcare grows in complexity, we are investing in, and leveraging, AI technology heavily in our cybersecurity programs both internally and customer facing.



Paul Morgan, Cycura's new CEO, commented, "I am very pleased to join the talented team at Cycura, which includes industry veterans and professionals from Source 44, and now, talented team members from Proack and Seekintoo. Given all of the capabilities now contained at Cycura, one would be hard pressed to find a more capable and proactive partner to protect data. Our goal is to add Cycura to the list of $100 million/year in revenue businesses at WELL over the next several years as we seek to build on the solid foundation already built and amplify this special business to further protect healthcare and other data all over North America." The first acquisition, Seekintoo, provides Cyber Security Operations Center services to enterprise clients, equipping them with a managed detection responder service that assures 24/7 vigilant protection against threats. This acquisition closed August 1st, and Seekintoo is currently being integrated into Cycura. Paul Morgan, CEO of Seekintoo, joins WELL with decades of industry and management expertise, and has been appointed as the new CEO of Cycura.

Proack, WELL's second acquisition, is a premier provider of offensive security assessments, specializing in penetration testing, red teaming, social engineering, and infrastructure testing. These strategic moves serve to enhance Cycura's cybersecurity capabilities significantly, while also reinforcing the commitment to maintaining patient trust and operational integrity across all of WELL's businesses. Proack is set to be integrated into the Cycura platform, with principals Craig Barretto and Yuk Fai Chan anticipated to play a key role in advancing offensive security initiatives. Both Mr. Barretto and Mr. Chan bring decades of experience in cybersecurity consulting, threat identification, and penetration testing to the team. With targeted improvements in threat detection capabilities and response strategies, Cycura is diligently working to enhance cybersecurity support for over 200,000 end-users and extend protective measures across more than 10,000 servers. This includes thousands of physicians who can focus on providing care and know that their patients' data is protected by Cycura's industry leading solutions. WELL envisions the potential of AI-enabled cybersecurity to further advance its growth strategies and defensive capabilities, in collaboration with industry partners. This positions the company to adapt and lead in a rapidly changing environment. As the cybersecurity industry witnesses substantial growth, driven by companies increasing their investments, WELL remains optimistic about its ability to expand its business and seize a greater market share within the sector. WELL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES CORP. Per: "Hamed Shahbazi" Hamed Shahbazi Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Director About WELL Health Technologies Corp. WELL's mission is to tech-enable healthcare providers. We do this by developing the best technologies, services, and support available, which ensures healthcare providers are empowered to positively impact patient outcomes. WELL's comprehensive healthcare and digital platform includes extensive front and back-office management software applications that help physicians run and secure their practices. WELL's solutions enable more than 31,000 healthcare providers between the US and Canada and power the largest owned and operated healthcare ecosystem in Canada with more than 148 clinics supporting primary care, specialized care, and diagnostic services. In the United States WELL's solutions are focused on specialized markets such as the gastrointestinal market, women's health, primary care, and mental health. WELL is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "WELL" and on the OTC Exchange under the symbol "WHTCF". To learn more about WELL, please visit: www.well.company/. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/well-healths-cycura-announces-two-tuck-in-acquisitions-to-enhance-patient-data-protection-and-appoints-new-management-301968419.html SOURCE WELL Health Technologies Corp.

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[October 26, 2023] Alliant Adds Bernie Pfeiffer to Growing Pennsylvania Benefits Team Tweet

Alliant Insurance Services continues to add top-tier talent to its growing team in Pennsylvania, hiring Bernie Pfeiffer as Vice President within its Employee Benefits Group. In this role, he will provide comprehensive, data-driven benefits strategies and solutions to a diverse client base. "Bernie takes an enterprise-wide approach to benefits consulting, combining analytics and strategy to deliver solutions that drive measurable, long-term results," said Kevin Overbey, President, Alliant Employee Benefits. "His broad skill set and diverse industry experience will further enhance our bility to provide powerful solutions to our clients in the Northeast and nationwide."



Pfeiffer joins Alliant in Wayne, Pennsylvania, with more than 25 years of experience in business development and employee benefits consulting. He brings a multidisciplinary approach to the benefits process, combining strategic planning, data analysis, and customer service to deliver solutions that enhance employee experience, control costs, and improve organizational outcomes. Prior to joining Alliant, Pfeiffer was a Partner and Vice President with a national insurance brokerage and employee benefits consulting firm. He also has extensive experience as a sales executive on the carrier side of the business, as well as in the medical device industry.

Pfeiffer can be reached at (610) 636-2038 or [email protected]. About Alliant Insurance Services Alliant Insurance Services is one of the nation's leading distributors of diversified insurance products and services. We operate through a network of specialized national platforms and local offices to offer our clients a comprehensive portfolio of solutions built on innovative thinking and personal service. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Alliant is meeting this complexity head-on, not with more layers of management, but with more creativity and agility. Alliant is changing the way our clients approach risk management and benefits, so they can capitalize on new opportunities to grow and protect their organizations. Visit us at alliant.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026740494/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Aerobotix to demonstrate new mobile robot for aerospace and defense sector at WESTEC/AeroDef Tweet

Aerobotix, a leading robotics integrator for the aerospace and defense industries, announced today that it will demonstrate a new mobile robot at the WESTEC/AeroDef Manufacturing Conference in Long Beach, California, from Nov. 7-9. These will be the first public demonstrations of the robot, which has been specifically designed for the aerospace and defense sector. It can be configured for applications including sanding, painting and inspection. The demonstration robot will perform automated tasks on aerospace components. "As Aerobotix continues its groundbreaking work in mobile robots, we're excited to bring this new technology to WESTEC/AeroDef," said Josh Tuttle, Aerobotix business development manager. "Mobile robots are widely used in general manufacturing and warehousing but are still new to the aerospace and defense industries. They support the 'factory of the future' concept and offer significant benefits in labor and cost savings, output quality and worker safety." Aerobotix has been a pioner in the use of mobile robots for aerospace and defense applications, partnering with Compass Technology Group (CTG) to help build the first collaborative mobile robot for U.S. Air Force maintenance depots.



Developed under the Air Force's Small Business Innovation Research program, the self-navigating Adaptive Radome Diagnostic System (ARDS) uses microwave signals to non-destructively evaluate aircraft radomes and identify defects such as delamination or water ingress. The ARDS won the top Defense Manufacturing Technology Achievement Award at the 2021 Defense Manufacturing Conference. "The new mobile robot we're demonstrating at WESTEC/AeroDef isn't self-navigating like the ARDS but could be reconfigured to become self-navigating if the customer has that need," said Tuttle. "A key strength of mobile robots is that they're highly configurable and can be rapidly repurposed to serve multiple objectives in multiple locations."

Aerobotix will offer hourly demonstrations at WESTEC/AeroDef booth No. 3003, on the right-hand side of the AeroDef hall. About Aerobotix Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, Aerobotix is an innovative leader in robotic solutions for the aerospace and defense industries. The company specializes in the creation of cutting-edge automated robotic solutions for high-value, high-precision components, aircraft and vehicles. Aerobotix has more than 130 robotic systems installed in the U.S. and abroad, providing exceptional results and savings for our clients. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026555055/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Machado Ranks on the Inc. 5000 List of America's Fastest-Growing Private Companies Tweet

Machado, the area's leading proactive managed IT services and cybersecurity provider, is honored to secure a position on the acclaimed 2023 Inc. 5000 list, a testament to their unparalleled growth and dedication in the IT services sector. This award is a testament to the company's steadfast growth from 2019 to 2022, driven by its proactive approach to IT and cybersecurity that stands out in an often reactive industry landscape. Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list are distinguished for their outstanding revenue growth, commitment to independence, and demonstrable successes in their industry. Qualifying for this list is an honor, and it recognizes businesses that have showcased commendable growth and resilience. The success of Machado cannot be accredited to numbers alone. CEO Helder Machado emphasized, "This achievement is a collective effort. Our dedicated team and our loyal clients have been paramount in earning this award. Their trust and partnership drive us to provide top-notch services consistently." Specializing in proactive IT management and cybersecurity, Machado offers services spanning compliance, vulnerability and risk assessment, backup, disaster recovery, and cloud services. Given the rising importance of cybersecurity, Machado's specializes in servicing highly regulated professional servces like banking, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, and more.



From growing up in Portugal to serving under Secretary Colin Powell in Iraq, Helder Machado's diverse experiences have infused Machado with a distinctive spirit. His personal and professional experiences have shaped the company's core values, emphasizing the Golden Rule in all interactions. "My family, my employees, and my clients...I treat them all the same...like family," shares Helder. This personal touch and dedication to relationship-building have undoubtedly contributed to the company's success. Machado goes beyond business, with a commitment to the Greater Worcester community. Each team member dedicates 4-8 hours monthly to volunteer at local organizations, a reflection of the firm's ingrained dedication of giving back.

About Machado Established in 2001 in Worcester, MA, Machado is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) founded on the idea that high-quality IT solutions and support should be more than a proactive tool that protects your business. IT should be an agile team that is an extension of your business and helps you anticipate events. As a Top 10 Managed Service Provider (MSP) in Massachusetts, Machado helps you unlock the full potential of your business with proactive, managed IT and cybersecurity solutions from a team that cares and prepares you to be ready for the next cyberattackopportunityauditcompliance eventor transformation. Inc. 5000 Methodology Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026699678/en/

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[October 26, 2023] VelocityEHS Awarded Two Patents for Pioneering Use of AI + Machine Learning for EHS & ESG Tweet

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- VelocityEHS, the global leader in enterprise EHS & ESG software solutions, announced today that it has been granted two patents by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) for its groundbreaking use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The patents demonstrate the companys leadership in developing EHS & ESG technology to drive operational excellence. Green Chemistry Patent With the first patent, the USPTO recognized Velocitys innovative use of machine learning (ML), in particular natural language processing (NLP), in its Green Chemistry capability to automate the indexing and extraction of chemical ingredient information from safety data sheets (SDSs). Harvesting this data manually is too costly and error-prone for many organizations, meaning they operate without visibility into their full chemical exposure. AI-driven ingredient indexing is cost efficient, near real-time and more accurate than current human based indexing methods. It empowers organizations of all sizes to take advantage of green chemistry principles such as identifying, prioritizing, and addressing the chemicals most likely to cause harm, and to control the influx of new hazardous chemicals into their facilities. Velocity now empowers organizations of all sizes and maturity levels to capitalize on green chemical management principles to create workplaces that are safer and more sustainable. Ergonomics Patent The second patent recognizes the companys use of ML, in particular Computer Vision (CV) and NLP, in its Industrial Ergonomics Solution to address musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), the leading cause of workplace injuries, costing employers billions of dollars a year. By using AI to identify MSD risk root causes and recommend risk control actions, Velocity empowers companies to make expert ergonomics guidance available to every employee and combat MSDs across the entire organization.



For companies serious about safety, sustainability and resilience, these real-world AI applications of ML and NLP bring immediate value. On the VelocityEHS Accelerate Platform, they have the potential to impact the wellbeing of millions of workers, said Dr. Julia Penfield, Associate Vice President of Machine Learning. Its all part of our ActiveEHS offering, which embeds the expertise of Velocitys certified EHS professionals into our software and amplifies it with AI to help non-experts achieve expert level results. Investor interest in ESG is fueling a generational transformation of EHS & sustainability. Velocitys investment in AI and R&D, the largest in the industry, is similarly revolutionizing the speed and effectiveness by which companies can respond to ESG pressures and responsibilities, said Matt Airhart, President of VelocityEHS. Adding these patented innovations to the Accelerate Platforms already cutting-edge capabilities is just the start. We have many more game-changers in the R&D pipeline.

The Accelerate Platform consists of seven best-in-class solutions covering Safety, Industrial Ergonomics, Control of Work, Health, ESG, Environmental Compliance and Operational Risk. For more information about VelocityEHS and its complete award-winning software solutions, visit www.EHS.com. About VelocityEHS Relied on by more than 10 million users worldwide to drive operational excellence and achieve outstanding outcomes, VelocityEHS is the global leader in true SaaS enterprise EHS & ESG technology. The VelocityEHS Accelerate Platform is the definitive gold-standard for managing safety, sustainability, and resiliency, and includes seven best-in-class software solutions for: ESG

Safety

Industrial Ergonomics

Control of Work

Health

Operational Risk

Environmental Compliance

The VelocityEHS team includes unparalleled industry expertise, with more certified experts in health, safety, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, sustainability, the environment, AI (machine learning) than any EHS software provider. Recognized by the EHS industrys top independent analysts as a Leader in the Verdantix 2023 Green Quadrant AnalysisVelocityEHS is committed to industry thought leadership and to accelerating the pace of innovation through its software solutions and vision. Its privacy and security protocols, which include SOC2 Type II attestation, are among the most stringent in the industry. VelocityEHS is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with locations in Ann Arbor, Michigan; Tampa, Florida; Oakville, Ontario; London, England; Perth, Western Australia; and Cork, Ireland. For more information, visit www.EHS.com. VelocityEHS Media Contact

Brad Harbaugh

312.881.2855

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2023] Lunit Participates in Saudi Vision 2030 Healthcare Sandbox, Accelerating Saudi Arabia's Healthcare Transformation Tweet

Memorandum of Understanding to be inked between Lunit and Seha Virtual Hospital, marking a new era in Saudi Arabia's healthcare innovation movement SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Lunit (KRX:328130.KQ), a leading provider of AI-powered solutions for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, today announced its full-fledged participation in the 'Saudi Vision 2030' Healthcare Sandbox. Lunit's involvement in the Sandbox signifies a broader commitment to advancing the Saudi Arabian healthcare sector. The Healthcare Sandbox, initiated by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Health in line with the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, is designed to facilitate the digital transformation of the Kingdom's healthcare industry. Partners are offered a business-friendl environment that encourages active collaboration with medical institutions nationwide, attracts investment, and opens avenues for business expansion.



As part of the Sandbox, Lunit will immediately sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Seha Virtual Hospital (SVH). The collaboration aims to strengthen the partnership and contribute significantly to the Kingdom's national cancer screening program. The signing ceremony will take place on October 29th in Riyadh, with key dignitaries in attendance, including Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit, Dr. Mohammed Alhamali, Director of Innovation and Business Development at Seha Virtual Hospital. Under the MoU, Lunit will provide SVH and its network of approximately 150 connected hospitals with the Lunit INSIGHT suite, an AI-powered solution for timely cancer detection. The initial deployment will start at King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, and Al mashaier hospitals (group of 8 hospitals) in Makkah.

In addition to enabling early-stage cancer screening, the collaboration will also focus on co-developing an AI-based CT analyzer to support more precise cancer and tuberculosis diagnosis. Furthermore, the partnership will actively work to secure high-quality healthcare data, contributing to the ongoing enhancement of Lunit's AI models. This project represents a significant advancement over the previous collaboration , initiated in July of this year. During this prior partnership, Lunit and Seha Virtual Hospital commenced delivering and integrating Lunit's solutions for validation. Seha Virtual Hospital, the world's largest virtual hospital, is a key part of the Kingdom's healthcare transformation initiative, the cornerstone of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy. SVH provides medical services to approximately 480,000 patients annually, supporting 150 hospitals nationwide. "Our expanded partnership with the Ministry of Health and Seha Virtual Hospital represents a significant step forward in improving the cancer care efforts in the Kingdom," said Brandon Suh, CEO of Lunit. "By delivering our AI-powered solution, we aim to enable early cancer detection, a pivotal factor in enhancing patient outcomes. Given that Saudi Arabia boasts the largest medical market in the Gulf Cooperation Council, this initiative underscores a meaningful impact on healthcare in the Middle East, and we eagerly anticipate contributing our expertise to this essential endeavor." According to Business Markets Insights, the medical imaging informatics market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) was valued at USD 1,607 million in 2021 and is projected to exceed USD 2,046 million by 2028, with an expected CAGR of 3.5% from 2021 to 2028. With Saudi Arabia being the largest market in the MEA, accounting for 22.7%, the collaboration holds immense potential for Lunit's expansion and impact in the region. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lunit-participates-in-saudi-vision-2030-healthcare-sandbox-accelerating-saudi-arabias-healthcare-transformation-301968453.html SOURCE Lunit

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URUMQI, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Parman is a translator at the Alataw Pass land port in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. To him, the expanding business of the pass, a crucial hub connecting China with Central Asia and Europe, epitomizes the flourishing achievements of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Located in the Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture of Bortala in Xinjiang, the Alataw Pass borders Kazakhstan. Since 2011 when the first China-Europe freight train passed through it, the pass has handled more than 30,000 trains to Central Asia or Europe.

"There used to be about an hour between shipments, but now, as soon as one shipment is under review, the next one arrives," said Parman, a 31-year-old man of the Uygur ethnic group.

After graduating with a master's degree in Russian from Xinjiang Normal University in 2017, Parman secured the translation job at the land port.

His daily work involves translating international railway waybills from Russian to Chinese, including information on the sender, departure station, recipient and destination station, as well as the names of products. He then fills out Chinese waybills and enters them into the port's system prior to a verification process.

Parman takes his work very seriously. "This job may seem easy, but translation work leaves no room for error. Every detail must be scrutinized to guarantee accuracy, as a single mistake could result in the delayed delivery of goods."

With the types of goods aboard the freight trains constantly changing, Parman needs to update his Russian vocabulary regularly. He carries a notebook with him at all time when he is working, and he fills it with words and sentence structures in Russian.

Goods carried on the freight trains have expanded to over 200 categories, spanning everything from agricultural products and daily necessities to machinery and electronics.

Over the decade since China proposed the BRI, the number of China-Europe and China-Central Asia freight trains handled by the Alataw Pass has steadily risen, meaning the translators at the land port are increasingly busy. "It doesn't matter if the workload surges as long as we can help accelerate customs clearance for the trains," Parman said.

As China's economic and trade exchanges with BRI partner countries become increasingly close, more and more products from Central Asian countries are handled at the Alataw Pass. "Products such as grains, oils, red wine and chocolate are well-received by Chinese customers," he noted.

He has also noticed that an increasing number of local Xinjiang goods, including sweaters, furniture and cement, are shipped to the international market.

"Sitting at the heart of the Silk Road Economic Belt, Xinjiang boasts unique advantages. I believe the economic and trade cooperation between China and BRI partners will progress even further," Parman said.

"My job is like a messenger for the China-Europe freight trains, facilitating communication and fostering connections between China and BRI partner countries," he added. 
[October 26, 2023] TNS Robocall Report - Top US Carriers Extend STIR/SHAKEN Gains, with Growing Need to Support Smaller Service Providers Tweet

Transaction Network Services (TNS) today launched its Q3 2023: Robocall Investigation Report. The latest report shows continued momentum by Tier-1 carriers in the fight against robocalls, but challenges remain when it comes to their signed STIR/SHAKEN voice traffic being terminated to smaller service provider networks. The latest edition of TNS' Robocall Investigation Report, which includes the most accurate robocall data from Q3 2023, is available to download now. With the catalyst of the final FCC-mandated June 30, 2023 STIR/SHAKEN implementation date, the report shows an improvement in voice traffic getting signed and broader carrier implementation of the STIR/SHAKEN framework. TNS observed a modest 3% improvement in total signed calls compared to the prior quarter; however, traffic from non-top seven carrier networks experienced over 20% improvement in total signed calls with the passing of the June 30th deadline. The Q3 2023: TNS Robocall Investigation Report also includes several new insights: Carriers make broad-based progress signing calls. When call traffic is originated by and sent to top carriers, over 85% of that traffic is signed with the highest level of attestation. Full Attestation (A) signed traffic is when the caller and phone number is authenticated by the service provider. Smaller carriers also showed a tangible improvement as their total volume of signed traffic increased by 20% for the second quarter in a row.

When call traffic is originated by and sent to top carriers, over 85% of that traffic is signed with the highest level of attestation. Full Attestation (A) signed traffic is when the caller and phone number is authenticated by the service provider. Smaller carriers also showed a tangible improvement as their total volume of signed traffic increased by 20% for the second quarter in a row. Large to small carrier signed traffic remains low . A disparity remains between the signed traffic capabilitiesof the top seven carriers (Verizon, UScellular, T-Mobile, Lumen, Comcast, Charter and AT&T) and the other providers. TNS observed that when traffic originates from a Tier-1 carrier and is terminated to a smaller carrier, only one in five of those calls arrive as signed. This represents a vast difference to traffic shared between the top carriers.

A disparity remains between the signed traffic capabilitiesof the top seven carriers (Verizon, UScellular, T-Mobile, Lumen, Comcast, Charter and AT&T) and the other providers. TNS observed that when traffic originates from a Tier-1 carrier and is terminated to a smaller carrier, only one in five of those calls arrive as signed. This represents a vast difference to traffic shared between the top carriers. Bad actors tap AI and policy changes for robocall scams. AI voice cloning technology is the latest weapon being used by scammers to trick consumers out of their money and personal information. Q3 2023 also saw bad actors capitalizing on confusion surrounding student loan debt relief. Americans received nearly as many student loan-related robocalls in the month of September as they had in the prior four months combined.

AI voice cloning technology is the latest weapon being used by scammers to trick consumers out of their money and personal information. Q3 2023 also saw bad actors capitalizing on confusion surrounding student loan debt relief. Americans received nearly as many student loan-related robocalls in the month of September as they had in the prior four months combined. VoIP networks remain the top robocall originator. VoIP networks are the primary line type where unwanted traffic originates to consumers. But TNS' report finds progress is being made. Less than 20% of traffic originating on these lines was signed in 2022. In Q3 2023, nearly 60% of the traffic was signed.



TNS supports more than 125 service providers in North America including four of the top seven US carriers and two of the top four wireless providers. With TNS' reach extending to nearly 250 million active subscribers, TNS has an unsurpassed ability to categorize and properly attribute incoming calls as it has access to the largest pool of call events. This visibility is key to differentiating between legitimate robocall activity and scams.

The Q3 2023: TNS Robocall Investigation Report is available to download now. About TNS: TNS, a market leader in call analytics and robocall mitigation, provides an end-to-end ecosystem for protecting and restoring trust in voice. TNS addresses the full needs of wireless and wireline operators globally with TNS Call Guardian the industry-leading call analytics solution that protects subscribers from high risk and nuisance robocalls. In addition, its Enterprise Branded Calling solution is the core component of its Identity Analytics Suite that is taking the next step in enriching consumer engagement making voice calling an integral part of an omnichannel customer experience program. TNS analyzes over one billion call events across more than 500 operators every single day, enabling carriers to identify more unwanted robocalls. For additional information, visit: https://tnsi.com/resource-center/communications/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026776051/en/

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[October 26, 2023] FRISS to use Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service for Enhanced AI Fraud Model Explanations Tweet

FRISS, one of the world's most implemented solutions for trust automation at P&C carriers, has recently collaborated with Microsoft to enhance its AI fraud model explanations using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. As a Microsoft Global Partner, FRISS is proud of the collaboration that will take explainable AI to new heights. FRISS solutions will be available in the Microsoft Commercial Marketplace - as a transactable offer in both storefronts: Azure Marketplace and Microsoft Appsource. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026052793/en/ "FRISS brings differentiated new experiences to insurance customers with the power of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. With a deep understanding of the insurance domain, FRISS has the know-how to apply Azure OpenAI Service responsibly to core business processes of insurers and other regulated firms." says Matthew Kerner, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Cloud for Industry. (Graphic: Business Wire) There are many use cases for Azure OpenAI Service within FRISS solutions, such as using a fraud bot, network explainer, commercial underwriting chatbot, or a claim summarizer. FRISS is also planning to enhance existing capabilities with Azure OpenAI Service such as its underwriting indicator engine, to improve overall accuracy on commercial underwriting data. FRISS is currently developing a "smart" explanation of its AI models' predictions, aligning with its responsible AI approach. Azure OpenAI Service enables FRISS to present potential fraud cases into more engaging and understandable stories, using the art of storytelling as the essence of the explanation. With this approach, understanding and conveying potential fraud incidents to insurance professionals and fraud investiators becomes remarkably seamless.



Christian van Leeuwen, FRISS Co-Founder and CSO, comments: "Every time our AI model makes a prediction, we automatically create sentences, or bullet points, which explains why the model made such a prediction. Our vision is to transition to a more engaging and user-friendly "smart story" approach, capitalizing on the power of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service." FRISS chose this approach because it allows for:

Responsible AI: FRISS applies the 7 principles for trustworthy AI in its platform, based on the "ethics guidelines for trustworthy AI" developed by the European Commission's High-Level Expert Group on AI.

FRISS applies the 7 principles for trustworthy AI in its platform, based on the "ethics guidelines for trustworthy AI" developed by the European Commission's High-Level Expert Group on AI. Better explainable AI: FRISS customers can now grasp the explanations of the AI Fraud Model better, as ChatGPT enables FRISS to create more compelling, coherent explanations compared to the current simple sentences.

FRISS customers can now grasp the explanations of the AI Fraud Model better, as ChatGPT enables FRISS to create more compelling, coherent explanations compared to the current simple sentences. Unbiased and ethical AI: By using ChatGPT for explanations only, FRISS reduces the chance of potential bias or ethical concerns, as it doesn't influence the fraud assessment or add any scores. "After conducting an initial survey, the response to the 'smart story' format was very positive," says Gian Luigi Chiesa, Product Owner Data Science at FRISS. "We are now working on implementing this approach for a group of pilot customers, ensuring its seamless integration and effectiveness." FRISS's commitment to enhancing fraud model explanations and providing a transparent, unbiased experience for its customers remains unchanged. "As we move forward, we envision even more possibilities, with plans to release use cases for our customers based on generative AI, such as large language models, into our platform in the first half of 2024. This collaboration is just the beginning of our journey towards a more secure and trustworthy future in the fight against fraud," concludes Van Leeuwen. "We are pleased to support the digital transformation of business processes in the insurance industry, especially in this new era of AI," says Matthew Kerner, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Cloud for Industry. "FRISS brings differentiated new experiences to insurance customers with the power of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. With a deep understanding of the insurance domain, FRISS has the know-how to apply Azure OpenAI Service responsibly to core business processes of insurers and other regulated firms." To get started with FRISS, visit the FRISS listing on Azure Marketplace or Appsource. Or come meet the team at ITC Las Vegas, Oct 31 - Nov 2, booth #2034. About FRISS What would your processes look like if you could instantly trust your customers? Knowing when to trust keeps you in control of your processes - automating as much as possible. FRISS is the leading provider of Trust Automation Solutions for P&C insurers. Its real-time, data-driven scores and insights give instant confidence and understanding of the inherent risks of all customers and interactions. Based on next generation technology, FRISS allows you to confidently manage trust throughout the insurance value chain - from the first quote all the way through claims and investigations when needed. Because speed and convenience have altogether redefined what it means to serve consumers, it is time to start building the relationships your customers demand and deserve. For more information, please reach out to: FRISS View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026052793/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Socotra and Partners to Host Premier Insurance Networking Event Tweet

Leading insurance core technology provider Socotra announced today that eight members of the organization's Partner Network have collaborated to present a unique, dynamic networking event as part of this year's InsureTech Connect conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. On the evening of Tuesday, October 31st - in the peak of the action at ITC Vegas - the partner firms will be welcoming select insurance and technology professionals from around the globe to their flagship Insuretech on Tap event, designed to foster communication, camaraderie, and creativity among the finest minds in insurance. "GhostDraft and Socotra share a focus in helping insurers drive speed to market, increased efficiency, and better customer and employee experiences," said Rebecca Angell, VP of Strategic Alliances at GhostDraft. "We are thrilled to co-sponsor Socotra's Insuretech on Tap, a great ITC event to network with peers and industry thought leaders." "The future of insurance is customer-centric, cloud-based, super-intelligent, nimble, secure, and scalable," said Michael Schwabrow, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Cloverleaf Analytics. "Socotra's partner sponsors of the Insuretech on Tap event represent this future that increasing numbers of carriers and the insured are benefiting from today, and these numbers will grow next year." The Socotra Partner Network gives insurers worldwide easy access to the best software and services the insurtech ecosystem has to offer. The Socotra App MarketPlace, cloud-native and API-driven, empowers nsurers to rapidly and easily connect with a wide array of apps that add value across the insurance value chain; from data services, rating, and document management to payment processing, e-signatures, and more.



"For four years, it's been an honor and pleasure to help insurance clients enter the market and modernize together with Socotra," said Yaroslav Buga, Vice-President of DataArt. "Being a true-SaaS, open API platform, Socotra offers flexibility, reliability, and robustness unlike many traditional systems. Their support and caring of clients and partners are unprecedented and lays a good foundation for a long-term relationship." "This partnership embodies our commitment and dedication to delivering innovative solutions in the insurance industry," said Oded Barak, CEO of Five Sigma. "We are excited to collaborate on this venture with like-minded cutting-edge partners like Socotra. Together with Socotra, we are poised to deliver exceptional and true value to insurers and policyholders alike."

Insuretech on Tap will be held on the night of Tuesday, October 31st, from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. PDT at Ri Ra Irish Pub in the Shoppes at Mandalay Place in Las Vegas, NV. Participation is limited to guests of InsureTech Connect 2023 and subject to availability. Find more details and registration information here. About Socotra Uniquely agile and scalable, Socotra empowers insurers of all sizes to think, act, and grow more effectively and efficiently with the industry's only proven, mature enterprise platform. Businesses running Socotra experience fast and easy implementations, effortless upgrades, and lower TCO. The Socotra App MarketPlace unlocks access to the full power of the insurtech ecosystem, and Socotra CorePlus provides ready-to-use, complete solutions for personal auto and homeowners. With a relentless focus on tomorrow, Socotra offers the ability to put insurance and innovation hand in hand. Socotra serves P&C and life insurers worldwide. Learn more at socotra.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026850338/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Snom Americas Endorses Telecommunications Innovation at Jeff Pulver's VON: Evolution and VON: Builder Events Tweet

TIGARD, Ore., Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Snom Americas has announced its support for VON: Evolution and VON: Builder, a three-day gathering of forward-thinking telecom industry executives and developers curated by telecom luminary and Vonage founder Jeff Pulver. The two events are scheduled for October 31 - November 2, 2023, in New York City, with the developer-focused VON: Builder set for October 31, 2023, in the New York offices of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, followed by VON: Evolution at City Winery on November 1st and 2nd.

The two pioneering events underscore a collaborative vision for the enduring evolution of telephony, reminiscent of the groundbreaking endeavors of Alexander Graham Bell, carried forward by Pulver in the digital realm. VON: Evolution and VON: Builder will facilitate a confluence of industry stalwarts, innovators, and stakeholders to explore and shape the telecom ecosystem's evolving dynamics. By supporting these events, Snom Americas is extending its commitment to a vibrant, forward-thinking telecom landscape that seamlessly melds the time-tested functionality of desk and wireless phones with emerging telecommunication technologies. "Our support of VON: Evolution and VON: Builder, with Jeff Pulver, amplifies our commitment to champion an innovative telecom ecosystem, said Marc Magliano, Vice President Channel Business for the Americas. With the cessation of Bell Labs, a void in telephony advancement was created, yet the VON events historically carried the torch for innovation in telephony. VON: Evolution and VON: Builder are worthy successors to that tradition, and we are honored to bea part of this visionary endeavor.



For over 25 years, Jeff Pulver has been at the forefront of a telecom renaissance, envisioning and driving the sector toward a future brimming with potential. His groundbreaking efforts in the field of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) notably parallel Bells innovative strides in the early days of the telephone. Pulvers advocacy for internet freedom and his foundational role in the VoIP sphere, exemplified by the establishment of Vonage and the historical Pulver Order by the FCC, echo Bell's transformative impact on the telecom sector. The alliance with Snom Americas amplifies our joint mission to nurture and advance the telecom sector, said Jeff Pulver. By fusing tradition with innovation, we strive to uphold the relevance and utility of desk phones amidst the burgeoning digital communication domain."

Snom Americas welcomes all interested parties to participate in the discourse and exploration destined to redefine the telecom industry at VON: Evolution and VON: Builder. Together, lets champion the future of telecommunications, fortified by the indelible legacy and modern-day innovation of desk and wireless telephony, added Magliano. About Snom

As a pioneer and a leading brand of professional and enterprise VoIP phones, Snom provides a diverse collection of telecommunication products that elevate the business user experience through state-of-the-art technology and design. These business phones are sold through a wide network of trusted partners and are backed by North American-based training and support. Parent company VTech is headquartered in Hong Kong and listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (HKSE: 303). For more information, please visit www.snomamericas.com . 2023 VTech Communications, Inc. Trademark Attribution:

All rights reserved. VTech is a registered trademark of VTech Holdings Limited. Snom is a registered trademark of Snom Technology GmbH. Use of Snom by VTech is under license. Third-party trademarks are the property of their respective owner.

All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners.

Snom Americas is a trademark of Snom Americas, Inc., and Zoom is a Zoom Video Communications, Inc trademark. Media Contacts:

For Snom:

Julie Smith

Channel Marketing Manager

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2023] Clutch Named a Power Partner by Inc. Magazine Tweet

The prestigious award highlights B2B partners that empower growth and support startups across all business functions. WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Clutch, the leading global marketplace of B2B service providers, today announced it earned an Inc. Power Partner Award for 2023, an honor recognizing B2B organizations across the globe that have proven track records supporting entrepreneurs and helping startups grow. The list recognizes 389 firms in marketing and advertising, health and wellness, financial services, legal, logistics, and productivity, as well as other areas of business. All 389 companies received top marks from clients for being instrumental in helping leadership navigate the dynamic world of startups. These B2B partners support entrepreneurs across various facets of the business, including hiring, compliance, infrastructure development, cloud migration, fundraising, etc, allowing founders to focus on their core missions.



"It's an honor to be recognized as an Inc. Power Partner and to celebrate Clutch's impact as a B2B market leader," said Sonny Ganguly, CEO of Clutch. "At Clutch, we're on a mission to empower better business decisions and facilitate successful partnerships between the 15 million business services buyers who visit Clutch each year and the 280,000 B2B service providers listed on Clutch from around the globe. Onboarding a service provider can be expensive, but onboarding the wrong provider for your project is even more costly. Moving forward, we remain committed to empowering both users and service providers alike, equipping them with the resources to achieve growth." In addition to earning an Inc. Power Partner award, Clutch is a six-time Inc. 5000 honoree. Clutch has grown its revenue by 236% since 2019.

"As you gain experience, you learn what platforms can be trusted, and are more reliable, and for us, Clutch is an easy lever to pull because we know that the spend on Clutch is allocated in such a way that we get attention on our profile, visitors to our website, and the type of traffic that has the knowledge we need to make a decision. You just don't get that from ads or social media", said Andy Smith, Marketing Manager of HatchWorks. To view the complete list, go to: https://www.inc.com/power-partner-awards/2023 About Clutch Clutch empowers better business decisions as the leading global marketplace of B2B service providers. More than 1 million business leaders start at Clutch each month to read in-depth client interviews and discover trusted agency partners to meet their business needs. Clutch has been honored for the past 5 consecutive years as an Inc. 5000 fastest-growing company and by the Washington Business Journal as one of the 50 fastest growing private companies in the DC metro area for 2022. Media contact:

Deesha Laxsav

703-944-4279

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/clutch-named-a-power-partner-by-inc-magazine-301968774.html SOURCE Clutch

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[October 26, 2023] Zenlayer and Mobily Forge Partnership to Supercharge Cloud Computing and Connectivity in Saudi Arabia Tweet

In a groundbreaking announcement at Capacity Europe, Zenlayer, the world's first hyperconnected cloud, and Mobily, Saudi Arabia's second largest internet service provider (ISP), revealed their new strategic partnership. The alliance aims to deliver high performance edge compute and connectivity services to businesses deploying infrastructure in Saudi Arabia and potentially beyond. Zenlayer, renowned for its extensive network of edge infrastructures and expertise in fast-growing emerging markets, will bring its cutting-edge technology and services to Mobily's data centers in Saudi Arabia. In turn, Mobily will provide a broad portfolio of data center and network services to Zenlayer's clients. This synergy will not only expand Zenlayer's global network coverage, but also enhance Mobily's service offerings, reinforcing its position as a leading ISP in Saudi Arabia. "This is our first strategic partnership in the Middle East and its significance cannot be overstated," said Joe Zhu, Founder and CEO of Zenlayer. "Mobily is a dominant player in Saudi, which has been instrumental in shaping the digital landscape of the country. Their commitment to growth and connectivity is steadfast and Iam confident that together, we will make a significant impact on the digital transformation of the region."



The partnership holds immense promise for a wide range of industries, with gaming companies being a prime example. Saudi Arabia ranks as the 19th largest gaming market in the world, experiencing a remarkable 41.1% year-on-year growth. With over 21 million gamers in the country, the Kingdom's investment of $180 billion annually to establish itself as a global gaming hub further solidifies its significance in the gaming industry. Zenlayer and Mobily's joint solutions will provide gaming companies with ultra-low latency and enhanced user experiences. Other industries such as energy, healthcare and retail also stand to gain advantages from this collaboration. Looking ahead to 2024, geopolitical drivers will act as catalysts for talent, investments, businesses and resources to expand into new regions. This shift will increase the demand for applications and services to be deployed at the edge of cloud to reach users in these burgeoning markets and with data sovereignty becoming a pivotal consideration for many countries, global businesses will need to work with "glocal" vendors like Zenlayer to host services wherever their customers are located. This partnership promises exceptional opportunities for businesses seeking to thrive in Saudi and the broader middle east area.

About Zenlayer: Zenlayer is the world's first hyperconnected cloud services provider, delivering on-demand connectivity through a vast network of edge infrastructures. With a particular focus on fast-growing emerging markets like Southeast Asia, India, China, South America, and Africa, Zenlayer empowers businesses to enhance their digital experiences with ultra-low latency. Through edge compute and network services, Zenlayer helps clients deploy infrastructure closer to their end-users, improving performance and service delivery. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026335200/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Science and Technology Daily: AI Governance Should Conform to Human Values Tweet

BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "It is a question worth thinking about  how each country manages their AI development, while upholding the principle of the common values of humankind as the rule of joint governance of AI," said Gao Shaolin, a consultant at the Legal Artificial Intelligence Research Center at Peking University, speaking at the Digital Economy Forum, a part of the 19th Annual Beijing-Tokyo Forum, in Beijing on October 19. The Digital Economy Forum this year focused on construction of a digital society and joint governance of artificial intelligence. The scholars and industry participants from China and Japan shared their insights on the topic, and discussed how two countries strengthen cooperation in building a digital society and AI management. Challenges and opportunities AI is changing people's life, work and social structure at unprecedented speed. After OpenAI released ChatGPT, generative AI has witnessed an explosive growth, creating a technological innovation boom around the world. According to Goldman Sachs, generative AI can drive global GDP growth by 7 percent, adding 7 trillion USD in GDP, and the AI industry will usher in the 3.0 era. Yi Chuang, General Manager of Japan, SenseTime Asia Pacific Business Group, said that China has the most active market in generative AI. In the first half of 2023, more than 120 large model AI products were released, including 79 large models with above one billion parameters, and t least 20 general large models.



Though the rapid development of AI technology has brought great opportunities, technical and ethical challenges also pose unpredictable risks on humanity. Toshio Iwamoto, Principal Executive Advisor of NTT Data Corporation, said that AI could lead to misinformation and joblessness. Particularly, the people-to-people relationship will be replaced by the people-to-AI relationship.

Fumihiko Kamio, Nomura Research Institute's Director of Research, also said that generative AI would cause major risks in data security and personal information protection and algorithms, along with ethical issues, and intellectual property infringement. Responding to their concern, Liu Song, Vice president of PingCAP (Beijing) Technology Co. Ltd., said, "It is not AI that replaces human beings, but people who have mastered AI technology that replace people who have not." People-oriented development Participants agreed that AI development and application should be "people-oriented," thus ultimately serving for the wellbeing of humankind. Gao said China has always actively advocated "putting people first" and "tech for good." He said that the Global AI Governance Initiative, issued by China on October 18, provides Chinese solution to the AI development. The initiative systematically outlines China's proposals on AI governance from three aspects, namely, the development, security and governance of AI. He also noted that AI governance can be strengthened through laws, ethics and international cooperation. Iwamoto said that the use of AI must contribute to the survival, dignity and happiness of human beings, and that security and privacy protection must be ensured. Inclusive digital society The construction of a digital society should attach importance to its universality and make AI beneficial to people's livelihood. Zhang Xiaodan, vice president of Global Tone Communication Technology Co. Ltd., shared a digital transformation solution for the traditional manufacturing industry. Her company provides an Internet platform to help textile enterprises increase their production efficiency and the production of employees by 20 and 8 percent, respectively, and reduce the work intensity of employees by 20 percent. Zhu Rongsheng, a research associate at the Center for International Security and Strategy of Tsinghua University, said China and Japan can try to put forward AI development and governance principles, so as to meet the needs of East Asia integration. Zhu proposed that both sides could develop the related issues included in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement. Given the social challenges facing both China and Japan, including aging, low birth-rate and economic transformation, Yi said that in the era of AI 3.0, the business communities of the two countries can work together to use new technologies to solve these problems, and prevent privacy protection and technology ethics caused by new technologies. As for expanding cooperation, Zhu suggested that the attendees can establish a working mechanism. Based on the basic principles in AI of bilateral cooperation as a framework, forum participants could forward a proposal to the policymakers, contributing to the digital economic cooperation between the two countries. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/science-and-technology-daily-ai-governance-should-conform-to-human-values-301968906.html SOURCE Science and Technology Daily

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Lone Star Analysis Receives Platinum Honors at the 2023 Military & Aerospace Electronics Innovators Awards

Lone Star Analysis, is a trusted provider of leading-edge predictive and prescriptive analytics, and Evolved AI. Lone Star is proud to announce its recognition as a Platinum honoree at the 2023 Military & Aerospace Electronics Innovators Awards.

"MRO is one of the toughest analysis challenges in aviation," said Steve Roemerman, Lone Star's Chairman. "Our team created a predictive and prescriptive solution which improves MRO efficiency and process management. MaxUp MRO2 was the result of these efforts, and our commitment to invest in the solution."

Lone Star Analysis has been at the forefrot of aerospace and defense innovation. The Platinum award recognizes the groundbreaking contribution of their innovative solution, MaxUp MRO2. The solution enables improved forecasting accuracy, improved workflow, shorter MRO cycle times, better labor utilization, and improved capacity foresight.







MaxUp MRO2 is currently in use supporting U.S. Naval Aviation. The solution is slated for expanding deployment across the Navy's Fleet Readiness Centers.

To find out more about MaxUp MRO2 (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul Optimization) and Lone Star Analysis, visit www.Lone-Star.com.

About Lone Star Analysis

Lone Star Analysis provides applied decision intelligence and engineering solutions. We harness predictive and prescriptive analytics, Evolved AI , and inherent knowledge to enhance innovation, create economic strength, and make the world safer. Lone Star delivers actionable answers to complex problems in the Aerospace & Defense Industry, Military Services, the Intelligence Community, and our International Allies.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026831096/en/
[October 26, 2023] DATAMARK Selected by Allegany County, Maryland, to Increase Location Intelligence Indoors Through Innovative Indoor Mapping Technology Tweet

PITTSBURGH, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- DATAMARK, the public safety geographic information systems (GIS) team of Michael Baker International, announced today that the firm has been selected by Allegany County, Maryland, to provide indoor mapping services and solutions designed to increase situational awareness and public safety indoors. The three-year contract will include the conversion of existing floorplans to indoor data models, as well as the indoor data collection of 25 high occupancy buildings within the County. The refined data will then be imported to INSIDE, DATAMARK's cloud-native indoor mapping solution, for seamless integration into CAD (computer-aided dispatch) systems and collaborative use between dispatchers, first responders and facility managers within the County. "DATAMARK INSIDE provides end-to-end indoor mapping solutions designed to enable collaboration between public safety officials, schools and facility managers," said Rob Sterner, Vice President and Director of DATAMARK. "Allegany County has long embraced technology and innovation when it comes to public safety, and this three-year contract builds upon a long-standing relationship dating back to 2019, when they first partnered with DATAMARK to conduct GIS data aggregation and reconciliation." "The DATAMARK indoor mapping services and solutions are game-changing for public safety and something I never thought I'd see in my career," added Roger Bennett, MS, Deputy Director, Allegany County, Maryland, Department of Emergency Services. "I am impressed by the innovation and potential of this technology." DATAMARK's end-to-end indoor mapping solutions allow users to leverage highly accurate and robust indoor data for collaborative use between first responders, PSAP (public safety answering point) personnel, and facility managers. These solutions have the power to create safer spaces and peace of mind for building occupants by combining this data with the tools to facilitate effective exit planning, easy access to emergency assets and improved incident response. About DATAMARK

As trusted advisors in public safety, DATAMARK brings comprehensive, real-world expertise in police, fire, EMS and 9-1-1 leadership roles to Next Generation 9-1-1 transitions. The DATAMARK team leads the industry by shaping rules and legislation, and by building a suite of products and services that ensure accurate emergency response location data in life-critical situations. DATAMARK empowers its team and stakeholder partners to foster trusted relationships and cultivate data integrity for informed decision making. DATAMARK, the public safety GIS team of Michael Baker International, has decades of proven experience in mission-critical government addressing projects. The team works with clients to solve their complex needs, from data quality checks and addressing to workflow analysis and more. Learn more about the company at www.datamarkgis.com and follow DATAMARK on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook . About Michael Baker International

Michael Baker International is a leading provider of engineering and consulting services spanning four distinct Verticals: Infrastructure, Design-Build Services, Federal Programs and Services and Consulting and Technology Solutions (CTS). The firm's Practices encompass all facets of infrastructure, including design and civil engineering for diverse bridge, highway, water, rail and transit and aviation projects, as well as planning, architecture, environmental and construction and program management. For more than 80 years, the company has been a trusted partner to clients, providing comprehensive services and solutions, delivering expertise and quality, and embracing emerging technologies and the latest innovations  like intelligent transportation, engineered models and public safety software as a service (SaaS). The firm's more than 3,500 employees across more than 85 office locations are committed to Making a Difference for clients and communities through a culture of innovation, collaboration and technological advancement while Reimagining Michael Baker to become a full-service engineering and consulting firm over the next five years. To learn more, visit https://mbakerintl.com/.







Contact: Julia Covelli

[email protected]

(866) 293-4609

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/datamark-selected-by-allegany-county-maryland-to-increase-location-intelligence-indoors-through-innovative-indoor-mapping-technology-301968880.html SOURCE DATAMARK

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Mitsubishi Power Delivers First Shipment of Equipment to ACES Delta Hub for Clean Hydrogen Production at One of the Largest Systems in Construction

Mitsubishi Power Americas, Inc. has delivered the first shipment of major equipment for its HydaptiveTM integrated hydrogen production plant forming part of the Advanced Clean Energy Storage Hub (ACES Delta Hub) in Delta, UT.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026989297/en/

Electrolyzers arrive at the ACES Delta project in Delta, Utah. (Photo: Business Wire)

HydaptiveTM will use renewable energy via electrolysis to produce green hydrogen by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen through electrolysis. This delivery marks yet another milestone in the project's development and another step in advancing the long-term use of green hydrogen in reducing carbon emissions in the U.S.

Mitsubishi Power's delivery of equipment is being coordinated with the onsite construction schedule to optimize the overall project timeline. Once completed, the system at ACES Delta Hub will nearly double the annual production levels of clean hydrogen worldwide.

The ACES Delta Hub, a joint project led by Mitsubishi Power Americas and Chevron U.S.A. Inc.'s New Energies Company (formerly Magnum Development), is a large-scale, world-class clean hydrogen facility designed to produce, store, and deliver green hydrogen to the western U.S. The hub will initially be capable of converting 220 MW of renewable energy into almost 100 tonnes per day of green hydrogen, which will then be stored in two massive salt caverns, having a storage capacity of more than 300 GWh of dispatchable clean energy. These salt caverns are located within the only major geologic salt dome formation in the western U.S.

A pipeline from the ACES Delta Hub will supply hydrogen to the nearby Intermountain Power Agency's "IPP Renewed" power plant project to achieve seasonal, dispatchable renewable energy storage utilizing two advanced-class Mitsubishi Power J-series gas turbines. The turbines will use up to 30 percent hydrogen blended with natural gas at start-up, with a goal of transitioning up to 100 percent hydrogen by 2045 or sooner, thereby resulting in carbon-free utility-scale power generation. Together, the high-performance turbines have a capacity of 840 MW of electricity generation.







"The integrated HydaptiveTM technologies will empower our customers to produce cost effective hydrogen at scale, and facilitate the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. This equipment delivery represents just one of many significant milestones as we move closer toward completion of the ACES Delta Hub," said Kent Rockaway, Vice President, Hydrogen Production, Mitsubishi Power Americas.

Additional Press Releases:

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/20231026989297/en/
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation of the United Arab Emirates led by Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber.

The delegation includes UAEs Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Bin Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Investment Mohamed Bin Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of State for the economic and trade affairs within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ahmed bin Ali Al Sayegh, Director General of Abu Dhabi Fund for Development Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar company Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi.

President Ilham Aliyev, first of all, thanked the UAE delegation for participation in the official opening ceremony of the Garadagh Solar Power Plant, and described it as an example of friendly relations and great respect. The head of state asked Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber to extend his thanks to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for participation of this countrys four ministers in the event.

The Azerbaijani President described the conduct of the official opening ceremony of the Garadagh Solar Power Plant as a historical event, underlining that bilateral relations span a number of other spheres.

President Ilham Aliyev noted that todays meeting provided a good opportunity for discussing present situation of and prospects for the cooperation, and highlighted the importance of other joint projects on the agenda for expanding bilateral ties even more.

Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the United Arab Emirates Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber, first of all, thanked the head of state on behalf of the delegation for great hospitality shown in Azerbaijan. He noted the high leadership of the United Arab Emirates had always noted the importance of strategic partnership with Azerbaijan as a powerful nation.

Sultan Ahmad Al Jaber underscored that Azerbaijan had achieved serious successes within short span of time to accomplish the goals set. He expressed confidence that existing ties between the two countries serve long-term partnership. At the same time, he underlined that Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates are committed to creation of a new example of cooperation and strategic partnership.








URUMQI, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The drilling of China's first scientific-exploration borehole with a depth exceeding 10,000 meters, which is located in the Tarim Basin in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, has made recent progress, according to the Tarim Oilfield on Thursday.

Drilling has surpassed 8,000 meters to reach a depth of 8,056 meters. After passing the 8,000-meter mark, the machinery has to withstand challenges such as temperatures of more than 155 degrees Celsius and pressure 1,100 times more than the atmospheric pressure, said Wang Chunsheng, a technical expert involved in the exploration.

The borehole has a designed depth of 11,100 meters and is located in the hinterland of the Taklimakan Desert, the largest desert in China.

The equipment, including drill bits and pipes weighing more than 2,000 tonnes, will go deep into the Earth during the drilling process, penetrating more than 10 continental strata, including the Cretaceous system.

The Tarim Basin is one of the most difficult areas to explore due to its harsh ground environment and complicated underground conditions. 
[October 26, 2023] SWFI's FORT North America 2023 Highlights the Nexus of Private Family Capital, Sovereign Wealth & Public Funds; Awards GOOD Fellowships to Disruptors Tweet

Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI), the leading authority on sovereign wealth funds, public pensions, and real asset investors, brought together a prominent group of global investors, family offices, pension and public funds, endowments, ultra-high net worth individuals, and government representatives for its Family Office Round Table (FORT) North America 2023 in Dallas earlier this month. The gathering attracted over 400 guests estimated to represent a cumulative US$11 trillion in assets. FORT North America, which is estimated to have been the largest gathering of its kind in the region, hosted an impressive line-up featuring 40 prominent speakers engaged in discussions spanning a diverse range of topics, including private equity trends and opportunities, family office deal flow, institutional co-investment, real estate investing, sustainability, impact investing, philanthropy, and AI in finance. Speakers included Anya Schiess, Co-Managing Partner, JP Morgan Private Capital; Lee Bratcher, President, Texas Blockchain Council; Robert F. Kennedy Jr., U.S. Presidential Candidate; Ranu Vohra, Avendus Capital; Anand Chandrasekaran, General Partner, General Catalyst; the Honorable James Rosebush, CEO, GrowthStrategy Inc.; and H.E. Udaya Indrarathna, Sri Lankan Ambassador to the UAE, among others. Through the Global Order of Outstanding Disruptors (GOOD) Fellowships and Influencing Community Over Networking (ICON) awards, FORT North America 2023 recognized disruptors in the fields of entrepreneurship and finance that are having a significant impact on society. A few of this year's winners include Jeff Hoffman, Founder & CEO, World Youth Horizons; Candice Beaumont, Chairperson, Salsano Group; Merin Rajadurai, Senior Advisor for Multilateral Affairs & Public-Private Partnership, U.S. State Department; and Dr. Maha Achour, Venture Partner, Chakra Fund. One of the event's most anticipated elements was a candid fireside cat between the U.S. Presidential Candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Natalie Brunell, Managing Editor for the Hard Money Show covering economic and social issues facing the United States.



The gathering also hosted five entrepreneurial pitches, showcasing Texas' vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and the potential for investment in the state's burgeoning start-up ecosystem. Among the startups that received the opportunity to pitch to global investors and family offices were Fluree, Praetorian Global, Bandit Trucks, Ledger Funding, and ARBT Prefab. Lakshmi Narayanan, Chairman, SWFI, said, "We received an overwhelming response from investors around the world for FORT North America 2023, reflecting the strength of SWFI's programming and the stature of this organization among the world's top investors. This gathering was not just about financial transactions, it fostered discussions and debates that can help reshape the domestic and global investment landscape."

FORT North America 2023 was a testament to the growing global recognition of Texas as one of the deepest asset pools on earth, and an opportunity for global investors to explore the vast potential of the Lone Star State. About SWFI The Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI) has been hosting highly successful global forums to bring together the world's largest investors, including sovereign wealth funds, pensions, foundations, endowments, large family offices, official institutions, and other asset owners, with top-level industry leaders for the purpose of deep knowledge sharing and preeminent deal-making. For the 15 plus years since its inception, SWFI has served as a critical industry liaison dedicated to assisting these institutions in the areas of investment, asset allocation, governance, policy, risk assessment and mitigation, and other relevant issues. By providing specialised data, events, and research, SWFI has become the world's leading resource on global capital formation and flows. About Patel Family Office The Patel Family Office is an established hospitality family organization in the United States, with a 50-year legacy in developing, owning, and managing hotel properties across all segments. In addition to their extensive expertise in the hospitality industry, the Patel Family Office is actively engaged as an impact and responsible investor in various sectors, including housing, healthcare, technology, energy, and entrepreneurship. With a hotel management team that collectively holds over 250 years of experience, the Patel Family Office has developed over 50 properties, owned more than 400, and managed over 500 hotel properties primarily throughout the United States. Driven by their core values of family, integrity, and a strong work ethic, the Patel Family Office has raised and deployed over $5 billion in institutional and private capital, employing over 3,000 individuals and generating an annual revenue of $600 million in the hotel industry alone. Their portfolio of transactions represents a value of over $3.7 billion. Furthermore, the Patel Family Office is spearheading the establishment of America's first national housing company, which aims to provide 75,000 housing units across all 50 states. As a committed investor, they have also invested in over 200 entrepreneurial ventures with a vision to positively impact the lives of one billion people. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026712219/en/

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[October 26, 2023]

Asetek Presents Third Quarter 2023 Results on Thursday, 2 November

AALBORG, Denmark, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Asetek will release its financial results for the third quarter of 2023 on Thursday, 2 November at 12:00 CET.

CEO Andre Sloth Eriksen and CFO Peter Dam Madsen will present the Company's results at 14:00 CET and invite investors, analysts and media to join the presentation. The presentation is expected to last up to one hour, including Q&A, and can be followed via live webcast or conference call.

Webcast - audio and slide presentation:

Please join the results webcast via the following link: https://events.q4inc.com/attendee/874100850

Conference call - audio only:

Please dial in 5-10 minutes prior using the phone numbers and confirmation code below:









Denmark: +45 32 74 07 10 USA: +1 646 307 1963 Germany +49 6958 996 4217 Norway: +47 57 98 94 30 UK: +44 20 3481 4247



Conference ID: 4233834



The third quarter 2023 earnings release and presentation will be made available online at www.asetek.com and www.newsweb.no, as well as through news agencies.

A recorded version of the presentation will be made available at www.asetek.com approximately two hours after the presentation has concluded.

Q&A: The conference call lines will be opened for participants to ask question at the end of the presentation. Questions can also be submitted through the online webcast during the presentation.

For further information, please contact:

Peter Madsen, Chief Financial Officer

Mobile: +45 2080 7200

E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

About Asetek:

Asetek (ASTK), a global leader in mechatronic innovation, is a Danish garage-to-stock-exchange success story. Founded in 2000, Asetek established its innovative position as the leading OEM developer and producer of the all-in-one liquid cooler for all major PC & Enthusiast gaming brands. In 2013, Asetek went public while expanding into energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cooling solutions for data centers. In 2021, Asetek introduced its line of products for next level immersive SimSports gaming

The following files are available for download:

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/asetek-presents-third-quarter-2023-results-on-thursday-2-november-301968912.html

SOURCE Asetek
[October 26, 2023] Construction Camera Market to Exceed USD 533.6 million by 2031, Garnering 8.5% CAGR: TMR Report Tweet

Innovations in technology and the need for new sensors will continue to grow the market. Increasing residential construction projects will increase demand for construction cameras. WILMINGTON, Del., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The construction camera market was valued at US$ 259.9 million in 2022. A CAGR of 8.5% is expected from 2023 to 2031. The market is projected to reach US$ 533.6 million by 2031. With the advent of advanced construction cameras, features such as automated progress tracking, anomaly detection, and object detection are becoming available. A safer workplace can be achieved by using this method, which improves project management and identifies safety hazards. Extreme weather conditions are common at construction sites. Construction cameras are becoming increasingly popular for durability and reliable operation in all conditions. Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=85485 With the integration of construction cameras with BIM software, construction site images can now be overlaid with 3D models. A project team can see progress and detect discrepancies between plans and construction. The Internet of Things (IoT) will make it easier to transfer data and access construction cameras remotely. Construction managers can remotely monitor a construction site using this technology. Sensors can measure air quality, temperature, humidity, and moisture depending on the camera. In order to maintain the integrity of materials and ensure the safety of workers, this is imperative. An eco-friendly and energy-efficient construction camera may be designed in line with the growing sustainability emphasis. Contractors are estimated to lose between $300 million and $1 billion annually due to theft on construction sites. The best method for reducing theft risk is to include CCTV security systems on a construction site. The equipment and machinery at these sites are often left unattended each night, making them prime targets for thieves looking to steal or sell valuable items. Construction Camera Market Report Scope:







Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2023-2031 Base Year 2022 Size in 2022 US$ 259.9 Mn Forecast (Value) in 2031 US$ 533.6 Mn Growth Rate (CAGR) 8.5 % No. of Pages 155 Pages Segments covered Product Type, Power, Application, Distribution Channel

Key Findings of the Market Report Various construction cameras will be in demand from Asia Pacific regions, attracting vendors from different regions.

regions, attracting vendors from different regions. Introducing construction cameras with advanced features and introducing innovation in terms of technology will present lucrative business prospects.

The security and surveillance concerns associated with various residential construction sites will drive the demand for construction cameras.

A company-owned website for construction cameras is expected to drive demand in the future.

Due to its cost-effectiveness, the fixed camera segment is expected to lead the global market in a few years. Market Trends for Construction Camera Construction cameras provide real-time visual data, facilitating remote monitoring, making accurate decisions, and addressing potential problems. The time-lapse camera uses new technology, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning.

The quality and resolution of construction cameras have significantly improved over the last few years. With the introduction of 4K and ultra-high resolution cameras, construction reveals greater clarity.

and ultra-high resolution cameras, construction reveals greater clarity. Companies in the construction industry are expected to benefit from innovation in terms of technology and the development of advanced construction cameras. The environment surrounding construction sites is inherently dangerous. Monitoring safety protocols, identifying potential hazards, and taking proactive measures can be done with construction cameras.

Construction cameras facilitate seamless communication and collaboration among stakeholders, irrespective of their physical locations. Remote teams can access a live video feed, which enhances efficiency and productivity by enabling them to share and coordinate project updates. The increasing focus on developing smart cities worldwide will significantly increase demand in the coming years. Enquiry Before Buying @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=EB&rep_id=85485 Global Market for Construction Camera Regional Outlook A significant portion of the global market is attributed to Asia Pacific over the forecast period. Increasing and modified construction activities in developing countries have led to substantial residential and commercial construction growth. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic expansion have resulted in a booming construction industry in China and India .

over the forecast period. Increasing and modified construction activities in developing countries have led to substantial residential and commercial construction growth. Rapid urbanization, population growth, and economic expansion have resulted in a booming construction industry in and . Several factors contribute to the widespread adoption of construction cameras, including the need to ensure the project's efficiency, safety, and quality. Increasing levels of digitalization and affordability have made it much easier to adopt construction cameras in many parts of Asia Pacific . Global Construction Camera: Key Players Several local and global players compete in the construction camera market. Local players are expected to enter the market in the next few years, intensifying competition. Companies that manufacture construction cameras use a variety of marketing strategies to stay competitive. Key players in construction cameras include Brinno Inc.

CamDo Solutions

EarthCam Inc.

ECAMSECURE

Enlaps (Tikee)

Ibeam Systems Inc.

Sensera Systems

Truelook Construction Cameras

US Relay

Work Zone Cam LLC. Key Developments in the Global Construction Camera Market In October 2023 , the Atlanta City Council approved the security camera requirement for new large buildings.

, the Atlanta City Council approved the security camera requirement for new large buildings. In October 2023 , Waka Kotahi and Auckland Transport will begin installing new generation safety cameras on sections of six roads in Tadamaki Makaurau Auckland. Global Construction Camera Market: Segmentation Product Type Fixed Camera

PTZ (Pan-Tilt-Zoom) Camera

Indoor Camera

Mobile Trailers Camera Power AC Power Driven

DC Power Driven

Solar Power Driven Application Job-site Progress Monitoring

Security and Surveillance

Marketing and Promotion Distribution Channel Online Company Owned Websites E-commerce Websites

Offline Specialty Stores Multi-brand Stores Other Retail Stores

Region North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

& South America

Place an Order Copy of Construction Camera Market Report at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=85485<ype=S About Transparency Market Research Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information. Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports. Contact: Nikhil Sawlani

Transparency Market Research Inc.

CORPORATE HEADQUARTER DOWNTOWN,

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Suite 1200, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 USA

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

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Email: [email protected] Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1682871/TMR_Logo_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/construction-camera-market-to-exceed-usd-533-6-million-by-2031--garnering-8-5-cagr-tmr-report-301968785.html

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[October 26, 2023] HiBid Auctions Hit $49.3M GVM Last Week; Duck Decoys, Bicycles, Restaurant Equipment, and More Open for Bidding Tweet

OCALA, Fla., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- HiBid.com auctions had another productive week that saw $49.3 million in gross merchandise value (GMV) between October 16th and 22nd. Bidders placed over 3.8 million bids as they vied for 698,529 lots sold on the platform in 1,849 timed and live auctions. Total hammer value exceeded $82.1 million. Among this week's hundreds of auctions on HiBid.com, there are some featuring decoys and sporting collectibles, bicycles, dirt bikes, restaurant equipment, and more. Noteworthy lots include a Vulcan 5-foot flat-top griddle, multiple restaurant kitchen convection ovens, a Honda 1974 CT70 minibike, a Schwinn Meridian 212cc motorized tricycle, a Charles Perdew Bluebill Drake duck decoy, an Eddie Wozny hand-carved rooster, and an original Jim Foote painting on canvas. HiBid.com brings buyers and sellers together every day with a wide-ranging selection of lots and categories that appeal to bidders worldwide. HiBid is fully integrated with Auction Flex 360, providing auctioneers with a comprehensive auction management solution that supports live auction, timed auctions, and internet absentee bidding.



October 16-22, 2023, HiBid.com Highlights

Gross Merchandise Value: $49.3+ Million

Total Hammer Value: $82.1+ Million

Lots Sold Online: 698,529

Timed Auctions: 1,640

Live Auctions: 120

Bids Placed: 3.8+ Million

Bidding Sessions: 4.5+ Million Current Auctions

The following list includes a small sample from the hundreds of auctions currently open for bidding on HiBid.com. Site visitors can click the Find Auctions menu at the top of the HiBid.com homepage for links to the Featured and Hot auctions, such as those listed below, or use the search box to find auctions nearby.

Premiere Decoy and Sporting Collectible Auction

Auction Type: Live (Pre-Bidding Open)

Dates: October 29

Seller: Auctioneers, Inc.

View Auction Catalog Bicycles, Dirt Bikes, Helicopter, Penny Scale

Auction Type: Timed

Dates: October 12-30

Seller: Lucky Auctions

View Auction Catalog October Restaurant Equipment Auction, Chantilly, Virginia

Auction Type: Timed

Dates: October 13-30

Seller: BidTender Auctions

View Auction Catalog If you're looking to sell through HiBid.com, click here to describe what you wish to sell, and a local HiBid auctioneer will help you get started. Interested in receiving updates from HiBid? Sign up to receive newsletter emails, and follow HiBid Auctions on Facebook and LinkedIn. About HiBid and Auction Flex 360

HiBid is an online auction platform supporting live auctions, timed auctions, and internet absentee bidding. It is also available as a private-label solution. HiBid is integrated with Auction Flex 360, the market leader in auction software for live and timed auctions, with capabilities that include cataloging, clerking, cashiering, accounting, mailing list management, inventory management, and multi-parcel. HiBid and Auction Flex 360 were built from the ground up to function together seamlessly. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hibid-auctions-hit-49-3m-gvm-last-week-duck-decoys-bicycles-restaurant-equipment-and-more-open-for-bidding-301968952.html SOURCE Hibid-AuctionFlex

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[October 26, 2023] Project Management Institute to Acquire PMO Global Alliance to Build and Strengthen PMO Community Around the World Tweet

Project Management Institute (PMI), the world's leading organization for the project management profession, has signed an agreement to acquire PMO Global Alliance (PMOGA), the largest global community of PMOs and PMO professionals. Instead of focusing solely on implementing standard processes and procedures, the most effective PMOs also influence strategy and play a pivotal role in helping organizations create value-driven cultures. In fact, research from PMI and PwC on the most mature PMOs found that 73% of them even include a C-suite-level role, compared to 47% of organizations overall. With this increased opportunity to have a seat at the decision-making table, current and aspiring PMO professionals need resources to hone their skills, learn from their peers, and stay current. "We're dedicated to empowering project professionals through their entire career journey - from early learning to advancing into the PMO," said Pierre Le Manh, President & Chief Executive Officer of PMI. "Acquiring PMOGA is key to us strengthening how we support PMO professionals and fulfilling our purpose, especially as PMOs play a crucial role in project success and growth of the project management profession." This milestone in PMI and PMOGA history will extend PMOGA's reach and elevate the value the two organizations collectively bring project professionals worldwide. Chief Executive Officer and Founder of PMOGA Americo Pinto will continue to lead the organization now as a part of PMI. Founded in 2017, PMOGA is a global community with more than 17,000 members in more than 125 countries. PMOGA developed two professional certifications - the PMO Certified Pracitioner (PMO-CP) and the PMO Certified Consultant (PMO-CC) certifications. Members have access to an extensive catalog of learnings and events, including PMOUNCON, the PMOGA World Unconference in Paris, France on 4-5 December 2023. The organization also hosts its own award program, the PMO Global Awards, to celebrate the most accomplished PMOs and PMO professionals.



"PMOGA and PMI have a common passion: empowering professionals and organizations to deliver more value," said Americo Pinto, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of PMOGA. "My goal was to create a single place where PMO professionals and organizations can find the knowledge and learning experiences they need to create successful and impactful PMOs. With this news, PMI becomes that place, which will unlock new opportunities for the global PMO community." Visit pmoga.world to learn more about PMOGA's mission to connect people and organizations dedicated to advancing the role of PMOs.

About Project Management Institute (PMI) PMI is the leading authority in project management, committed to advancing the project management profession to positively impact project success. We empower professionals to excel in project management practices through our growing global community, knowledge sharing, and best-in-class certifications-driving positive change in organizations and communities. Since 1969, our unwavering mission has been to advocate for the profession by offering life-long learning and connections to sharpen high-demand skills. Today, PMI provides professionals at every stage of their career journey with the globally recognized standards, online courses, thought leadership, events, and tools they need to succeed. With more than 300 chapters around the world, PMI members can network, find mentors, access career opportunities, and learn from peers, working together to drive greater impact. Visit us at www.pmi.org, linkedin.com/company/projectmanagementinstitute, facebook.com/PMInstitute, and on X @PMInstitute. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231025781382/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Exchange Bank Announces AJ Vazquez, Vice President, Branch Manager Tweet

Exchange Bank (OTC: EXSR) is pleased to announce AJ Vazquez as vice president and branch manager supporting the St. Francis office at 136 Calistoga Road, Santa Rosa, CA. AJ will report to Thomas Sands, vice president, regional sales manager. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026293735/en/ AJ Vazquez, Vice President, Branch Manager, Exchange Bank (Photo: Business Wire) AJ has been in banking for 16 years, most recently working for Umpqua Bank in Novato, where she served on retail advisory committees and was a bank ambassador for their recent merger with Columbia Bank. As vice president and branch manager of Exchange Bank's St. Francis branch, AJ looks forward to developing ad growing relationships with existing customers, her team, and the community.



Active in the community, AJ volunteers to teach financial literacy classes for middle schoolers and adults at North Marin Community Services. She has also served as Board Director at the Novato Chamber since 2019. She is a Novato Leadership 2019 graduate, has been involved in 10,000 Degrees for college career days, and is team treasurer for Santa Rosa United. About Exchange Bank

Headquartered in Sonoma County and founded in 1890, Exchange Bank is a full-service community bank with assets of $3.2 billion. Exchange Bank provides a wide range of personal, commercial and trust and investment management services with 16 retail branches in Sonoma County, a commercial branch in Roseville and Trust & Investment Management offices in Santa Rosa, Roseville, Marin County and Silicon Valley. The Bank's legacy of financial leadership and community support is grounded in its core values of commitment, respect, integrity, and teamwork. Exchange Bank is known for its people who care about their customers, their company, and the communities where they live and work. Exchange Bank is an 18-year winner of the North Bay Business Journal's Best Places to Work survey and the 2023 San Francisco Business Times Corporate Philanthropy Award. Exchange Bank was named Best Consumer Bank by the NorthBay biz Magazine's Best of the North Bay readers' poll. The Petaluma Argus Courier People's Choice Awards named Exchange Bank Best Local Bank 2023 and the Bohemian Magazine's Best of the North Bay 2023 named Exchange Bank Best Business Bank and Best Consumer Bank. www.exchangebank.com Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender - Equal Opportunity Employer View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026293735/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Vitamin's Financial Services Portfolio Continues to Grow with Addition of KlariVis SaaS Product Tweet

- Data Analytics Company Taps Vitamin For Website Overhaul + Hosting BALTIMORE, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Vitamin , a leading digital-first integrated marketing agency celebrating its 20th anniversary , recently completed a website overhaul for KlariVis , a rapidly-growing SaaS provider. KlariVis continues to experience substantial year-over-year client growth, emphasizing its significant impact on the community banking industry. Created by veteran banking executives, KlariVis delivers clear, centralized data analytics for regional and community banking institutions. The platform centralizes fragmented high-value data from a bank's core and ancillary systems into interactive self-service dashboards and reports that drive profitability and improve productivity at every level of the organization. KlariVis' decision to collaborate with Vitamin was influenced by the agency's proven track record in the financial services industry. Vitamin's expertise aimed to craft a website focused on providing brand differentiation, and positioning KlariVis as the go-to partner for financial institutions seeking data-driven solutions. Vitamin was tasked with creating an on-brand website look-feel and content/messaging, as well as retooling the user journey to funnel visitors to the software demo. The new design vividly showcases KlariVis as a unique fintech SaaS solution, addressing the common challenges banks face aggregating data across their disparate systms to gather vital performance insights. KlariVis' software is thoughtfully designed to seamlessly integrate with a broad spectrum of bank cores and ancillary systems, making it the perfect addition to any bank's tech stack.



"Before KlariVis, community banks had to navigate endless concessions and workarounds to centralize data across their ecosystem, but this product is a true game-changer," says Vitamin VP of Creative & UX Cory Magin . "The challenge for Vitamin was to quickly illustrate how truly comprehensive and seamless the KlariVIs platform is, while articulating that to a potentially skeptical audience that has already encountered many half-baked options in the past." Vitamin's strategy was to show the uniquely holistic vantage point that KlariVis provides to all levels of banking institutions. The features were framed from a 360-degree view, so the user understands that accurate data accessibility is not just critical for board meetings and executive reviews, but also across all departments within the bank.

"Vitamin's expertise and creative approach has truly revamped our digital presence," says Erica Starr, Chief Marketing Officer of KlariVis. "Our revamped website beautifully encapsulates our identity and effectively communicates our commitment to empowering community banks through data analytics." Visitors to KlariVis' new site can effortlessly explore the 360-degree benefits, whether the user is an executive, part of the sales or lending team, or digital banking manager. Testimonial videos from existing clients provide prospects with validation and evidence that KlariVis is a solution that can relieve the burden of tedious data aggregation, allowing bank leadership to focus on growth and moving their organization forward. "This is something community banks have always needed and never had before. The outcome is to simply become a better bank for their customers," adds Magin. "Once bankers understand this is possible, the platform sells itself and it becomes more a conversation of "'How can we not have this?" About Vitamin

Celebrating 20 years as the "Cure for the Common Brand," Vitamin is known for creating deeply branded, precisely executed, highly effective, and budget-conscious integrated marketing campaigns in close collaboration with for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Vitamin has assembled an exceptional team who leverage the experience and expertise of a large agency with the attention to detail and complete integration only a boutique can offer. Vitamin is headquartered in Baltimore, Md. and located at the gateway to the historic Federal Hill neighborhood. More at vitaminisgood.com and on social @vitaminisgood. About KlariVis

Created by veteran community bank executives, KlariVis enables banks of any size to accelerate growth by leveraging the data that is locked in its siloed banking systems. Developed on a modern technology stack, KlariVis lets banks see data in a way that empowers their teams and customers to live and work better. With the time saved on analysis, banks can put their new insights to work towards building a better organization. To learn more, please visit KlariVis.com . View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vitamins-financial-services-portfolio-continues-to-grow-with-addition-of-klarivis-saas-product-301969031.html SOURCE Vitamin

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[October 26, 2023] Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP, a Leading Securities Fraud Law Firm, Announces Investigation of NuScale Power Corporation (SMR) on Behalf of Investors Tweet

Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP ("GPM"), a leading national shareholder rights law firm, today announced that it has commenced an investigation on behalf of NuScale Power Corporation ("NuScale" or the "Company") (NYSE: SMR) investors concerning the Company's possible violations of the federal securities laws. If you suffered a loss on your NuScale investments or would like to inquire about potentially pursuing claims to recover your loss under the federal securities laws, you can submit your contact information at www.glancylaw.com/cases/NuScale-Power-Corporation/. You can also contact Charles H. Linehan, of GPM at 310-201-9150, Toll-Free at 888-773-9224, or via email at [email protected] to learn more about your rights. On October 19, 2023, Iceberg Research published a report alleging, among other things, that NuScale "recently disclosed a huge contract with blockchain datacenter service provider Standard Power. This contract has zero chance of being executed as Standard Power clearly oes not have the means to support contracts of this size." Additionally, the report stated that "NuScale has around 15 months before its cash runs out."



On this news, NuScale's stock price fell $0.58, or 11.5%, to close at $4.46 per share on October 19, 2023, thereby injuring investors. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

Whistleblower Notice: Persons with non-public information regarding NuScale should consider their options to aid the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower Program. Under the 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 Charles H. Linehan at 310-201-9150 or 888-773-9224 or email [email protected]. About GPM Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP is a premier law firm representing investors and consumers in securities litigation and other complex class action litigation. ISS Securities Class Action Services has consistently ranked GPM in its annual SCAS Top 50 Report. In 2018, GPM was ranked a top five law firm in number of securities class action settlements, and a top six law firm for total dollar size of settlements. With four offices across the country, GPM's nearly 40 attorneys have won groundbreaking rulings and recovered billions of dollars for investors and consumers in securities, antitrust, consumer, and employment class actions. GPM's lawyers have handled cases covering a wide spectrum of corporate misconduct including cases involving financial restatements, internal control weaknesses, earnings management, fraudulent earnings guidance and forward looking statements, auditor misconduct, insider trading, violations of FDA regulations, actions resulting in FDA and DOJ investigations, and many other forms of corporate misconduct. GPM's attorneys have worked on securities cases relating to nearly all industries and sectors in the financial markets, including, energy, consumer discretionary, consumer staples, real estate and REITs, financial, insurance, information technology, health care, biotech, cryptocurrency, medical devices, and many more. GPM's past successes have been widely covered by leading news and industry publications such as The Wall Street Journal, The Financial Times, Bloomberg Businessweek, Reuters, the Associated Press, Barron's, Investor's Business Daily, Forbes, and Money. This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and ethical rules. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026687751/en/

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[October 26, 2023] Cross River's New Series, In Conversation With, Focuses on the Transformation of B2B Payments and Launches its First Conversation with Visa Tweet

Cross River Bank ("Cross River"), a technology infrastructure provider that offers embedded financial solutions, will be hosting a live-streamed conversation with Visa's Veronica Fernandez, SVP, Head of Visa Commercial Solutions North America and Anthony Peculic, Heads of BaaS and Cards at Cross River on November 1st at 12pm ET. The discussion will focus on Visa's journey navigating the unique experiences of both the consumer and B2B sectors, the evolution and impact of consumerization on B2B payments, current challenges, and advice for commercial solutions of the future. "Until recently, an emphasis on the customer experience was mainly reserved for consumer-focused businesses," said Anthony Peculic. "However, as the B2B landscape experiences a paradigm shift, we expect more focus on the customer experience and are thrilled to have Veronica join us to share her unique expertise on the industry." The Company previously hosted a webinar series centered on faster payments featuring industry experts from Astra, Trustly, Plaid, Paymints.io, The Clearing House, American Fintech Council, This Week in Fintech, Axios, Bank Director, FinClusive, Sardine and Orum. Now, the mic passes to Visa for the launch of the new initiative, In Conversation With. Interested parties can learn more about the first installment and register here.



About Cross River Cross River provides technology infrastructure powering the future of financial services. Leveraging its proprietary real-time banking core, Cross River delivers innovative and scalable embedded payments, cards, and lending solutions to millions of consumers and businesses. Cross River is backed by leading investors and serves the world's most essential fintech and technology companies. Together with its partners, Cross River is reshaping global finance and financial inclusion. Member FDIC. Find out more at www.crossriver.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026060335/en/

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Best's Insurance Law Podcast Examines South Carolina Construction Defect Claims

AM Best and Best's Insurance Professional Resources have released the latest installment of the Best's Insurance Law Podcast series, which examines timely insurance issues from a legal perspective.

The latest episode features attorney Thomas Pritchard from Vernis & Bowling as he addresses uniqueness in South Carolina consruction law and what claims and risk managers should be aware of.







Vernis & Bowling is a qualified member in Best's Insurance Professional Resources, an insurance industry resource that has featured qualified legal counsel, independent insurance adjusting services and expert service providers, since 1929.

Listen or subscribe to the Insurance Law Podcast.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specializing 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 Company, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026267964/en/
BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with Iran within the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, practice true multilateralism, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

Li made the remarks when meeting with Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States.
[October 26, 2023] Hunan TV releases the 3rd Season of the Documentary "China" Tweet

CHANGSHA, China, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Tracing the distant "childhood" of the Chinese people with the history of images. Recently, the third season of the documentary "China", which is being broadcast on Hunan TV, Hunan Broadcasting System and Mango TV, has become a popular TV program for young Chinese with its grand and subtle narrative, innovation and sophisticated production. As the final work of the documentary series "China", the 3rd season of "China" starts from the source to explore the origin of Chinese civilization and decode the genes of cultural inheritance. From the myths and legends of PanGu founding of the world and the creation of man by NvWa, to the archaeological historical materials such as Erlitou civilization and bronze ware, from the prehistoric society full of stars to the dynasties Xia, Shang and Zhou in the widearea, with the gestation and development of etiquette as the main line, the unique place of Chinese civilization is elucidated, so that the world can perceive what is China. After the documentary was broadcast, it aroused enthusiastic reactions among the audience. Related topics frequently appeared in hot searches on social platforms, spreading exposure up to 3 billion times, and won the first place in the fusion communication index. In order to better express the lives of the forefather, the leading creative team has conducted an avant-arde exploration of "ideas + art + technology". On the basis of continuing "Chinese-style aesthetics", "China" has adopted the new documentary image presentation method of "painting + CG" in the third season. With the support of a large number of researchable graphic materials, those characters and events that existed in ancient legends were depicted with a brush. Through the blessing of CG technology, nearly a thousand artistic paintings were in motion, giving all elements a flexible expression and presenting an imaginary space about ancient civilization.



In order to ensure the production of the content, the documentary team has invited well-known historical and archaeological experts such as Wang Zijin, Xu Hong, Sha Wutian, and Ruan Mingtao to strictly control relevant historical materials, facts, and historical views throughout the process, invited the moderators Zhou Tao and He Jiong to participate in the dubbing, and selected outstanding young artists as well as painters in China to create a high-quality historical documentary with awe. The documentary has received unanimous praise from historians and professional institutions such as Xu Zhuoyun, Yi Zhongtian, the Chinese Academy of History, the Liangzhu Museum, the Xi'an Museum, and the Erlitou Site Museum of the Xia Capital. In the short video platform Douyin where young Chinese gathered, many bloggers spontaneously produced their videos of second creation for "China", and the popularity remained high. The single video posted by the blogger "Xiaoxiang Lide" was played more than 10 million times. It is reported that the third season of "China" will officially celebrate its ending in early December.

Contact: Yu Pixun

Tel: 0086-731-84801218

Email: yupixun@hunantv.com Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZYqvV_mz5o

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258709/Hunan_tv_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hunan-tv-releases-the-3rd-season-of-the-documentary-china-301969086.html SOURCE Hunan TV

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[October 26, 2023] Jewelers Mutual Named to Inc.'s 2023 Power Partner List Tweet

The company is recognized for its proven track record of supporting jewelry businesses and empowering growth NEENAH, Wis., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Jewelers Mutual Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, recently announced it has been named to Inc.'s Power Partner Awards list, which recognizes the best business-to-business providers for small businesses. The company earned the achievement for its dedication to providing innovative products and services that extend beyond insurance to protect and grow jewelry businesses, solidifying its position as the trusted advisor and solution provider for the industry. Over the past several years, Jewelers Mutual has launched numerous technology advancements for jewelry businesses and jewelry consumers that are transforming the industry and customer experiences. Its digital Marketplace exemplifies the company's forward-thinking culture, empowering jewelers to thrive. Currently, over 13,000 registered users can access a multitude of offerings to revolutionize their jewelry businesses. In addition, Jewelers Mutual's insurtech solutions, like the LUX Digital Vault mobile app, elevate the experience at the retail counter. Customers download the app to store, view and manage their jewelry, collections and documentation and insure their piecesall from their phone. "Clearly, Jewelers Mutual Group has gone to extraordinary lengths to drive its clients' businesses as it does its own," said Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. Business Media, in a congratulatory letter.



With thousands of companies applying for recognition, the selection process for the Power Partner Awards is highly competitiv and based on various criteria, including customer feedback on multiple aspects, such as:



Likelihood to Recommend: Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry.

Customers were asked how likely they would be to recommend Jewelers Mutual to their peers in the jewelry industry. Value Rating: Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence.

Participants rated the value of the products and services provided by Jewelers Mutual on a scale of excellence. Competitive Advantage: Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers.

Jewelers Mutual was evaluated for how it stands out from its competitors and the unique advantages it offers. Reasons for Choosing: Customers shared insights into what sets Jewelers Mutual's products and services apart and why they prefer the company's offerings over other alternatives. "This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering tailored solutions that empower jewelry businesses to succeed," said Mike Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at Jewelers Mutual. "Our team's hard work, commitment and focus on customer satisfaction have truly paid off. We are deeply grateful to our customers for their trust and confidence in us. The best is yet to come." The view the complete list, go to https://www.inc.com/power-partner-awards/2023.

ABOUT JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP

Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual's powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers' strong financial position is reflected in their 36 consecutive "A+ Superior" ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2022. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com. ABOUT INC. BUSINESS MEDIA

The world's most trusted business-media brand, Inc. offers entrepreneurs the knowledge, tools, connections, and community they need to build great companies. Its award-winning multiplatform content reaches more than 50 million people each month across a variety of channels including websites, newsletters, social media, podcasts, and print. Its prestigious Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The global recognition that comes with inclusion in the 5000 gives the founders of the best businesses an opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and the credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. The associated Inc. 5000 Conference is part of a highly acclaimed portfolio of bespoke events produced by Inc. For more information, visit www.inc.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jewelers-mutual-named-to-incs-2023-power-partner-list-301969096.html SOURCE Jewelers Mutual Group

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[October 26, 2023] The Award Ceremony of the 5th "My China Story" International Short Video Competition Held in Zhengzhou Tweet

BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The award ceremony and relevant activities of the 5th "My China Story" International Short Video Competition were held in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, on October 25. The event was hosted by China International Communications Group (CICG) and the Information Office of Henan Provincial People's Government, and organized by the Information Office of Zhengzhou Municipal People's Government and Xufang International Media under CICG. Lying at the heart of the Central Plains, Zhengzhou is a birthplace of Chinese civilization. In this competition, more than 50,000 short video works from all over the world were collected. After three rounds of evaluation by over 20 professional judges in the fields of film and television, international communication, and the internet, more than 90 works received awards, including 36 unit awards, seven individual awards, one jury grand prize, and more than 50 excellent awards. Special units such as "Wonderful Tour in Zhengzhou" and "Walking in Henan, Understanding China" built an international stage for telling Zhengzhou stories, spreading the voice of Henan, and contributing to China's international communication. This has further enhanced Zhengzhou's identity and reputation. Currently, Zhengzhou is accelerating efforts to enhance its strength in new energy vehile technologies, computing, diamond (superhard materials) processing, electric vehicle supercharging, quantum, and historical and cultural heritage. The city is polishing its image as the "Center of Heaven and Earth," the "Birthplace of Chinese Civilization," and the "City of Kung Fu."



"My China Story" is a short video project launched by CICG in 2018. Since its inaugural edition in 2019, the "My China Story" International Short Video Competition has been committed to encouraging domestic and international content creators, foreign live streamers, self-media teams and individuals to create multilingual Chinese themed short videos from different perspectives, sharing their experiences of visiting the country. Videos that tell creators' stories with China or present cultural exchanges between China and other countries from a third-party perspective are also welcome. After five years, "My China Story" has become a well-known international communication brand integrating multilingual short video creation, topic-of-the-year competition, special topic competition, new media international communication seminar, and theme exhibition. Contact:Li Dixuan

Tel:008610-68996991

E-mail:[email protected]

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258727/My_China_Story_1.jpg

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2258729/My_China_Story_2.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2099014/4365601/My_China_Story_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-award-ceremony-of-the-5th-my-china-story-international-short-video-competition-held-in-zhengzhou-301969112.html SOURCE My China Story

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[October 26, 2023] LOGISTEC Wins Environment Award at the 2023 International Heavy Lift Awards Tweet

MONTREAL, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - LOGISTEC Stevedoring Inc. ("LOGISTEC"), a subsidiary of LOGISTEC Corporation, is honoured to have won the 2023 Environment Award at the International Heavy Lift Awards Ceremony in London, England. This prestigious award recognizes LOGISTEC's environmental performance, providing safe, reliable and sustainable cargo handling services at 60 ports and 90 terminals across North America. "We believe in actively contributing to a sustainable supply chain and this award highlights our culture of environmental excellence," stated Rodney Corrigan, President of LOGISTEC Stevedoring Inc. "I would like to recognize our people who are dedicated to integrating environmental initiatives that are tangible, measurable, and impactful with our operations throughout our network. Handling heavy and oversized cargo is a specialized skill and our team has succeeded in delivering in a safe and sustainable way." As a founding member of Green Marine, an international movement that aims o reduce the industry's environmental footprint, LOGISTEC continues to seek new opportunities to reduce emissions, investing in eco-efficient equipment and technologies. These investments align with LOGISTEC's ESG goals to reduce carbon footprint and protect the environment and communities for future generations.



The Heavy Lift Awards celebrate the achievements of the project cargo supply chain, showcasing the work of the logistics industry  from the innovative solutions to complex transport challenges as well as industry leading initiatives to tackle safety and training. The winners were announced at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, England on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. ABOUT LOGISTEC

LOGISTEC Corporation is based in Montreal (QC) and provides specialized services to the marine community and industrial companies in the areas of bulk, break-bulk and container cargo handling in 60 ports and 90 terminals located in North America. LOGISTEC also offers marine transportation services geared primarily to the Arctic coastal trade as well as marine agency services to shipowners and operators serving the Canadian market. Furthermore, the Company operates in the environmental industry where it provides services to industrial, municipal and other governmental customers for the renewal of underground water mains, dredging, dewatering, contaminated soils and materials management, site remediation, risk assessment, and manufacturing of fluid transportation products.

The Company has been profitable and has paid regular dividends since becoming public and payments have grown steadily over the years. A public company since 1969, LOGISTEC's shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbols LGT.A and LGT.B. More information can be obtained on the Company's website at www.logistec.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/logistec-wins-environment-award-at-the-2023-international-heavy-lift-awards-301969118.html SOURCE Logistec Corporation - Communications

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[October 26, 2023] Global IoT in Energy Market Set to Soar to $114 Billion by 2030, With a Staggering 19.4% CAGR Forecast Tweet

DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "IoT in Energy Market - Global IoT in Energy Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Regional Outlook, and Forecast 2023-2030 - (By Application Coverage, By End-user Industry Coverage, By Component Coverage, By Geographic Coverage and Leading Companies)" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The global IoT in energy market is on an impressive upward trajectory and is projected to achieve a remarkable valuation of $114 billion by the year 2030. This robust growth is anticipated to demonstrate a compelling Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.4% during the period from 2023 to 2030, as revealed in a comprehensive report. Key Market Trends and Drivers Several key trends and drivers are fueling the growth of the global IoT in energy market: Decarbonization and Energy Efficiency: The energy sector is undergoing transformative reforms with a focus on decarbonization, energy efficiency, and IoT adoption. IoT technology enables efficient energy transfer, storage, and distribution, resulting in lower electricity production costs, improved reliability, and enhanced efficiency. Rising Enterprise Investments: Increasing investments by enterprises in various IoT projects are expected to drive the market to nearly $35 billion in the coming years. IoT is being integrated into commercial and residential setups to monitor and regulate energy consumption efficiently. IoT Adoption by Energy Companies: Energy companies are embracing IoT to reduce waste, enhance system efficiency, and promote overall energy sustainability. IoT-enabled devices and data analytics play a pivotal role in reducing energy wastage and overall energy demand. Major Growth Determinants Several factorsare driving the growth of the IoT in energy market, including decarbonization targets, rising adoption in the energy sector, and the potential for high productivity and automation.



Major Growth Barriers Challenges include architectural complexities, integration issues with existing systems, and concerns related to user privacy and the security of IoT devices.

Top Segments Oil & Gas Industry: The oil & gas sector led IoT investments, accounting for over 45% of the market in 2022. Major oil companies such as BP, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies have adopted IoT technology to enhance their operations and increase business value.

The oil & gas sector led IoT investments, accounting for over 45% of the market in 2022. Major oil companies such as BP, Equinor, ExxonMobil, Shell, and TotalEnergies have adopted IoT technology to enhance their operations and increase business value. Service Packages: The services segment dominated in terms of components, accounting for over 30% revenue share in 2022. Service bundles that include hardware and software have gained popularity for specific needs and applications.

The services segment dominated in terms of components, accounting for over 30% revenue share in 2022. Service bundles that include hardware and software have gained popularity for specific needs and applications. Asset Monitoring Application: Asset monitoring accounted for 24% of the market in terms of applications in 2022. IoT devices continuously capture data and provide actionable insights, helping organizations reduce maintenance costs and predict equipment issues. Regional Outlook North America and Asia Pacific are expected to play significant roles in the global IoT in energy market. North America, particularly the US, is a prominent user and supplier of IoT systems, with Asia Pacific registering a robust CAGR of 19.5% during 2023-2030. Europe is also expected to witness growth in the renewable power sector. Market Players in Global IoT in Energy Industry Space Leading companies in the global IoT in energy market include SAP, IBM, Hiber, HCL Technologies, Accenture Plc, CISCO, Dell Technologies, Siemens, Intel, Infosys, Bosch, and Rockwell Automation. Key Topics Covered:



1. Executive Summary



2. Market Overview

2.1. Market Definitions and Segmentations

2.2. Market Dynamics

2.2.1. Drivers

2.2.2. Restraints

2.2.3. Market Opportunities

2.2.4. Economic Trends

2.3. Value Chain Analysis

2.4. Porter's Five Forces Analysis

2.5. COVID-19 Impact

2.5.1. Supply Chain

2.5.2. End-use Industry Customer Impact Analysis



3. Price Trends Analysis, 2019 - 2030



4. Global IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030



5. North America IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030 6. Europe IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030



7. Asia Pacific IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030



8. Middle East & Africa IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030



9. Latin America IoT in Energy Market Outlook, 2019 - 2030



10. Competitive Landscape 11. Appendix For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/y6pe18 About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Media Contact: Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



For E.S.T Office Hours Call +1-917-300-0470

For U.S./CAN Toll Free Call +1-800-526-8630

For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900



U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/539438/Research_and_Markets_Logo.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/global-iot-in-energy-market-set-to-soar-to-114-billion-by-2030--with-a-staggering-19-4-cagr-forecast-301968606.html SOURCE Research and Markets

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[October 26, 2023] L'Oreal Luxe joins forces with Tree Canada and Shoppers Drug Mart to reforest areas affected by wildfires by planting more than 8,000 trees in the Northwest Territories Tweet

MONTREAL, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - L'Oreal Luxe, a division of L'Oreal Canada, is thrilled to announce a national partnership with Tree Canada and Shoppers Drug Mart, aimed at addressing the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Canada in recent times. Throughout 2023, hundreds of wildfires have left a trail of destruction across Canada, particularly in the Northwest Territories. As socially responsible corporations, L'Oreal Luxe and Shoppers Drug Mart are stepping up to make a significant difference in reforesting areas that have been affected by these wildfires. In an impactful and meaningful initiative, for every refillable or refill product purchased at Shoppers Drug Mart in July 2023, one tree will be planted in the Northwest Territories. This endeavor is undertaken in close collaboration with First Nations communities, with the primary objective of restoring wildlife habitat and rejuvenating ecosystems that have been tragically decimated by past fires. With this program, more than 8,000 trees are about to planted in partnership with Tree Canada, marking only the inaugural phase of a long-term commitment to the cause. L'Oreal Luxe's partnership with Tree Canada signiies a shared dedication to making a sustainable and lasting impact on the environment, reaffirming their commitment to a greener and more resilient Canada.



On October 11, 2023, the teams from Tree Canada, Shoppers Drug Mart, and L'Oreal Luxe converged at the L'Oreal Canada headquarters in Montreal to officially inaugurate this important partnership and embark on a journey of meaningful collective action. Dominique Soussan, VP of L'Oreal Luxe, commented, "This partnership underscores our commitment to sustainability and our responsibility to protect the environment. By planting trees in collaboration with Tree Canada and Shoppers Drug Mart, we are not only addressing the consequences of wildfires but also investing in the future of our planet."

Maya Colombani, Chief Sustainability Officer for L'Oreal Canada, emphasized the importance of this partnership, saying, "This project is a strong symbol of everything we believe in: partnering with local communities to restore their land and forest, which are still affected by fires today. By combining the wisdom of First Nations communities with the agroforestry science of Tree Canada, we are building climate resiliency in the Northwest Territories. Together, we are one. We recognize that we need nature now more than ever." Gwennaelle Varnier, Vice President, Prestige Beauty, Shoppers Drug Mart added, "We love when partnerships and programs in our stores become a bigger opportunity to amplify our purpose. As we strive everyday to help Canadians Live Life Well, this initiative with L'Oreal Luxe brings this to life, and helps elevate singular customer action into a very meaningful collective result. Together, these more than 8,000 trees will bring beauty and life to our planet and people." Nicole Hurtubise, CEO of Tree Canada, shared her perspective on this important collaboration, saying, "At Tree Canada, we believe in the power of partnerships to restore and protect Canada's precious landscapes. Our collaboration with L'Oreal Luxe and Shoppers Drug Mart is an important step forward in restoring forests and enhancing wildlife habitat, in partnership with First Nations communities, and we are excited to embark on this journey together." About L'Oreal Luxe: L'Oreal Luxe is a division of L'Oreal Canada, a wholly-owned subsidiary of L'Oreal Group, the largest cosmetics company in the world. Headquartered in Montreal, L'Oreal Canada had sales of $1,38 billion in 2021 and employs more than 1450 people. The company's prestigious portfolio of 40 brands encompasses all aspects of beauty. The L'Oreal Luxe Division comprises a portfolio of prestigious and iconic brands such as Lancome, Yves Saint-Laurent, Armani and Kiehl's, and is dedicated to delivering high-quality beauty and luxury products to consumers globally, while championing sustainability and responsible business practices. About Tree Canada: Tree Canada is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians and addressing climate change by planting and nurturing trees in rural and urban environments. For over 30 years, Tree Canada has helped to grow Canada's tree canopy through its programs, research, and engagement efforts and by offering grants to communities and schools. About Shoppers Drug Mart: Shoppers Drug Mart Inc. is one of the most recognized and trusted names in Canadian retailing. The company is the licensor of full-service retail drug stores operating under the name Shoppers Drug Mart (Pharmaprix in Quebec). With almost 1,350 Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix stores operating in prime locations in each province and two territories, the company is one of the most convenient retailers in Canada. SOURCE L'Oreal Canada Inc.

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[October 26, 2023] Operation HOPE Global Spokesman, Ambassador Andrew Young, Honored with the French Legion of Honor Tweet

Prestigious further honor recognizes Young's exceptional contributions to human rights, equality and the advancement of global peace. ATLANTA, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Operation HOPE today announced that its HOPE Global Forums (HGF) co-chair Ambassador Andrew Young, has been promoted to the rank of officer in the French Legion of Honor. This further honor recognizes his exceptional contributions to the world of diplomacy, human rights, and the advancement of global peace. A legendary figure in international policy and civil rights, the 91-year-old Young is also Operation HOPE's global spokesman. France bestows further honor on HOPE Global Forums co-chair, former UN ambassador and Atlanta mayor Andrew Young . The French Legion of Honor, or Legion d'Honneur, is France's highest distinction and one of the most revered awards worldwide. It was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 and is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service to their country, as well as to humanity. Young's longstanding dedication to these ideals has earned him his remarkable recognition. The award ceremony was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including France's President Emmanuel Macron and French Ambassador to the United States Laurent Bili.



Young's tireless efforts on the world stage have had a profound impact on society. He is celebrated for his work during the civil rights movement alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., where he played a crucial role in advancing the cause of equality and justice. His diplomatic career has included serving as the United States Ambassador to the United Nations during the Carter administration and as Mayor of Atlanta, where he was instrumental in transforming the city into a global metropolis. In addition to his distinguished career as a public servant, Young is a devoted advocate for Operation HOPE's mission to empower communities through financial literacy. Young's involvement reflects his commitment to addressing economic disparities across diverse underserved communities through education and increased access to resources.

Organized by Operation HOPE, HGF convenes world leaders and influencers to tackle critical issues such as increasing homeownership, supporting small businesses, leveraging technology and improving the overall financial well-being of traditionally disenfranchised communities. "Ambassador Young is an extraordinary man who deserves extraordinary recognition. His life's work underscores the importance of diplomacy, human rights, and financial empowerment in an increasingly interconnected world," said John Hope Bryant, founder, chairman and CEO of Operation HOPE. "We are forever grateful for his deep commitment to advancing these ideals and celebrate him for being a true inspiration to us  as well as to future generations." Young expressed his gratitude stating, "I am deeply honored to receive the French Legion of Honor. This award is a testament to the enduring power of tenacity and a willingness to reach across the aisle for the sake of peace. Through the HOPE Global Forums, I'm certain that we can continue to make progress and create a better world for all." To learn more about Young's involvement with the HOPE Global Forums, please click here. About Ambassador Andrew Young

Ambassador Andrew Young is a civil rights activist and diplomat whose tireless efforts have shaped the course of history. For more than seven decades, he has been a driving force for positive change in the United States and around the world. Named the first Global HOPE Forums spokesman, Young's involvement in Operation HOPE and his dedication to financial literacy initiatives reflects his deep commitment to addressing economic disparities and empowering underserved communities. About Operation HOPE, Inc.

Since 1992, Operation HOPE has been moving America from civil rights to "silver rights" with the mission of making free enterprise and capitalism work for everyonedisrupting poverty for millions of low and moderate-income youth and adults across the nation. In 2023, Operation HOPE was named to Fast Company's World Changing Ideas Award for pursuing innovation for good. Through its community uplift model, HOPE Inside, which received the Innovator of the Year recognition by American Banker magazine, Operation HOPE has served more than 4 million individuals and directed nearly $4 billion in economic activity into disenfranchised communitiesturning check-cashing customers into banking customers, renters into homeowners, small business dreamers into small business owners, minimum wage workers into living wage consumers, and uncertain disaster victims into financially empowered disaster survivors. Operation HOPE recently received its eighth consecutive 4-star charity rating for fiscal management and commitment to transparency and accountability from the prestigious non-profit evaluator, Charity Navigator. For more information: OperationHOPE.org. Join the conversation on social media at @operationHOPE. Media Contact: Lalohni Campbell, Per/Se Media Group; [email protected]

HOPE Contact: Kevin Boucher, Operation HOPE; [email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/operation-hope-global-spokesman-ambassador-andrew-young-honored-with-the-french-legion-of-honor-301969337.html SOURCE Operation HOPE, Inc.

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[October 26, 2023] tesa officially opens new site in Haiphong Vietnam expanding its footprint in Asia Tweet

tesa has opened a new site in Haiphong, Vietnam as part of its strategy to regionalise production, expand capacity and optimise supply chains.

as part of its strategy to regionalise production, expand capacity and optimise supply chains. The Haiphong site has a production capacity of 40 million square metres of adhesive tape per year, serving the fast-growing Asian market, particularly the automotive and electronics industries.

Committed to sustainability: tesa is aiming for LEED Gold Standard certification.

Watch the video of the opening ceremony here. SINGAPORE, Oct. 27, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- tesa, an international manufacturer of adhesive tapes and self-adhesive solutions, officially opened its new site in the Vietnamese port city of Haiphong today. The new site is part of tesa's strategic orientation to regionalise production. It expands the regional production capacity and optimises the supply chains to ensure reliable regional availability of both its products as well as transport capacities and the procurement of raw materials. tesa currently operates 13 production sites worldwide, including large plants in Germany (Hamburg, Offenburg), Italy, the USA and China. The new site in Haiphong is approximately 70,000 square metres in size and has a production capacity of around 40 million square metres of adhesive tape per year, perfectly complementing the existing production site in Suzhou, China which opened in 2005. The additional production capacity will primarily serve the fast-growing Asian market, especially in the automotive and electronics industries. In the first phae, about 130 employees will work at the Haiphong site, offering employment opportunities to the local community, especially in the fields of engineering and production, supporting the local economy.



"The investment of approximately 55 million Euro in our new site in Haiphong is an important milestone in our strategy to regionalise production and optimise our supply chains," said Dr. Norman Goldberg, CEO of tesa. He attended the official opening ceremony that included a traditional performance as a symbol of good luck and a site tour. "My sincere gratitude not only to the passionate and committed tesa team, but also to the authorities in Haiphong, all our construction partners and to the German ambassador, for your much appreciated support throughout this entire project."

Another milestone in tesa's sustainability agenda: LEED Gold Certification in progress tesa has made sustainability a priority and is working with great speed on this important transformation. This involves both the rapid reduction of emissions, a significant improvement in the sustainability of production, products and packaging, as well as responsible procurement. In the coming years, tesa will be making substantial investments in environmentally friendly conversion and further development of production at its plants. About 50 percent of the products to be manufactured at the tesa site Haiphong are water-based adhesives. A photovoltaic installation is to be installed and will cover about 10 percent of the yearly energy consumption at the site. Paired with a rainwater treatment plan, this will assist in obtaining LEED Gold Standard certification, demonstrating tesa's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. "This ambition is a testament to our efforts to minimise our ecological footprint by utilising sustainable manufacturing practices while delivering high-quality products to our customers," comments Stefan Schmidt, Head of tesa Supply Network, responsible for logistics and production at tesa worldwide. "I am sure our investment pays off and our customers appreciate the fast and flexible delivery." You can find this press release and image material here. Watch the video of the opening ceremony here. About tesa SE As a multinational company, tesa develops innovative adhesive tapes and self-adhesive product solutions for various industries, commercial customers and end consumers. There are already more than 7,000 tesa adhesive solutions that help improve the work, products or lives of our customers. Today, the focus is on sustainability and energy-saving processes. tesa invests in the development of environmentally friendly products and solvent-free manufacture processes as well as in the use of renewable energy sources at its locations. tesa is active in 100 countries and operates plants in Germany, Italy, China, the USA and Vietnam. Around three quarters of the tesa Group's sales (2022: EUR 1.7 billion euro) are generated by applications for industries. Together with its international clients, tesa develops innovations that are customised at product and process level. Already more than 130 tesa tapes may be installed in an electric car and over 70 in a smartphone. In the printing and construction industries tesa is penetrating new segments and countries with its specialised adhesive tapes. The company generates almost one quarter of its sales with products for end consumers and professional craftsmen. 300 applications, such as the legendary tesafilm, make life easier or, when it comes to insect protection, even make it a bit more pleasant. tesa counts among the world's leading manufacturers of adhesive solutions. Since 2001, tesa SE is an independent 100% affiliate of Beiersdorf AG (i.e., NIVEA, Eucerin, la prairie) with approximately 5,000 employees today. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/tesa-officially-opens-new-site-in-haiphong-vietnam-expanding-its-footprint-in-asia-301969533.html SOURCE tesa Asia Pacific

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Whilst the local media was busy covering the phony romance of Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift. It seems that recent economic projections reveal Kansas City teetering on the brink of bankruptcy.



To wit . . .

TODAY KICK-ASS TKC TIPSTERS SHARE DOX EXPOSING AN EPIC GENERAL FUND BALANCE REACHING ITS BREAKING POINT!!!

It's absolutely frightening that TKC is the first local newsie outlet to put this on blast but the information is hidden in plain sight.

Special thanks to BAD-ASS TKC TIPSTERS for sending the publicly available dox our way . . .

Take a look at the most important 12th & Oak graphic that puts everything into perspective . . .



Look closely . . . In about 4 years KCMO runs out of cash to keep up with the current rate of spending.

This isn't some far off debt projection but a very real warning sign that this cowtown is very close to becoming the Detroit of the Plains . . . Or maybe just West St. Louis.

For those who want to take a deeper dive . . .

Check out the Citywide Business Plan including City Goals, the Financial Strategic Plan, and the Balanced Scenario of the Five-Year Planning Model.

It's a dry document but we've read through it and here's a few highlights courtesy of our www.TonysKansasCity.com blog community . . .

- City Hall employees will be the first to start paying for this shortfall. Starting next year health insurance contributions are going to spike by 200 bucks minimum which will hurt workers on the low-end and cancel out most of the recent raises.

- High profile projects championed by the current administration are aiding the shortfall. We'll be happy if other newsies name the puppy but we'll post very soon if there's no follow-up.

- There is NO PLAN to trim the budget . . . The document is jam packed with spending deets but as we flirt with municipal bankruptcy . . . Notice NOT A SINGLE EFFORT TO CUT SPENDING.

It gets worse from that point as financial dox offer a glimpse at municipal FAIL on a historic level that could impact the future of this town going forward for generations.



Developing . . .


Special thanks to BAD-ASS TKC TIPSTERS for finding the local connection in this tragic story which reminds us to NEVER let lady friends bring us any beverage that has already been opened . . . Check-it:



"The complaint says Connor Bowman was a poison specialist at The University of Kansas Health System and answered calls regarding poisons. The health system confirmed his employment in a statement to KSN:



"Connor Bowman worked six years for The Poison Control Center at The University of Kansas Health System. The last four years he worked remotely as needed (PRN) answering calls from the public to the poison control center."

TEXTLine

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Wichita woman poisoned, dies; husband charged in Minnesota Authorities in Minnesota have arrested and charged a Wichita woman's husband in her murder. On Aug. 16, Betty Bowman, 32, a Mayo Clinic pharmacist, was admitted to a hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, with severe gastrointestinal distress and dehydration - similar to food poisoning. She died on Aug. 20.

Poison specialist Connor Bowman fatally poisoned his pharmacist wife and tried to stop autopsy, Minnesota authorities say Authorities say Connor Bowman, 30, claimed his wife, Betty Bowman, had a rare illness, which hospital tests did not confirm.
UNITED NATIONS, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The UN General Assembly on Thursday resumed its 10th Emergency Special Session on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

General Assembly President Dennis Francis, in his opening remarks, condemned both the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel's indiscriminate targeting of civilians and the destruction of critical infrastructure in Gaza.

"The brutality of the Hamas assaults is shocking and unacceptable, and has no place ... in our world," he said. "The ceaseless bombardment of the Gaza Strip by Israel and its consequences are deeply alarming. The right of self-defense does not and cannot lawfully give license to undertake indiscriminate and disproportionate reprisal."

Francis said all parties to this conflict must abide by international humanitarian law and immediately create the necessary conditions to allow for an opening of a humanitarian corridor to the Gaza Strip.

"We must ensure that urgently needed life-saving assistance reaches those in need -- from the delivery of basic foodstuff to the safe passage of humanitarian and medical staff. Any action to the contrary -- to deprive the people of Gaza of unimpeded access to essential livelihood supplies -- would be a clear violation of their human rights and an affront to international humanitarian law," he said.

"We, the United Nations, cannot allow the fundamental principles of human rights and of international law to be compromised. As the United Nations, we are obliged to uphold them -- without any conditions, or reservations, and certainly without any exceptions," Francis noted.

At this juncture, the most immediate step is clear: "the violence must cease, and further bloodshed must be prevented," he said, calling for the prompt and unconditional release of all hostages; an immediate, unconditional humanitarian cease-fire; and an immediate, unconditional opening of corridors of humanitarian assistance and relief.

The only path to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace is a negotiated two-state solution, consistent with international law, the UN Charter, and relevant UN resolutions -- a solution that fulfills Israel's legitimate needs for security and that fulfills the state of Palestine's legitimate aspirations for an independent state, said Francis.

He urged all parties to set aside their animosities and focus instead on averting war by prioritizing saving lives.

"I urge the (UN) membership to use today's session not to further fan the flames of hate, division and revenge. Let us seize the opportunity, instead, to unify our purpose and our actions to save lives and to end violence."

The resumed Emergency Special Session is expected to run into Friday and a resolution tabled by Jordan is expected to be voted on.

The UN Security Council, which holds the primary responsibility for international peace and security, has failed to adopt any resolution on the latest escalation in the past two weeks. 
Right now we roundup a bevy of EXCELLENT local crime reporting along with deets on court cases and critical efforts toward community outreach.



Check TKC news gathering . . .

Standoff in Costco parking lot ends with man in custody Just before 11:30 p.m., the man finally got out of the vehicle and took off running. He was taken into custody a short distance from the car with the assistance of a police K9.

Kansas City man who spent seconds in Capitol in Jan. 6 riot pleads guilty to misdemeanor "At 2:39 p.m., (Angelo) Pacheco entered the Capitol building," court records said. "Pacheco turned around and exited the building through the same door approximately six seconds later."

Shawnee homicide case exposes juvenile justice system's ongoing frustrations For nearly a year, the KSHB 41 I-Team has been looking into the juvenile justice system across Kansas.

Missouri law restricts sex offenders on Halloween. Now a Hazelwood man is suing Sex offenders in Missouri must post a sign on Halloween that says "no candy or treats at this residence."

Drug dealer to remain detained before sex trafficking trial with ex-KCK cop Golubski Survivors of the sex trafficking, a federal prosecutor said, are "still reeling" decades later and remained terrified by the prospect of the drug dealer's release.

Excelsior Springs officer exposed to cyanide, arsenic left in drug disposal box Excelsior Springs police officer is recovering after being exposed to cyanide and arsenic left in a drug take back box.

KC Common Good launches Play Your Part campaign to take action, reduce violent crime KC Common Good recently launched Play Your Part, a new campaign to help reduce violent crime, to support mothers like 39-year-old Dacia Walker, who lost her 18-year-old son to homicide in August.

Resources available in Kansas City for survivors of domestic violence Survivor advocates of domestic violence say it's a crime that knows no geographic or demographic boundaries.

Developing . . .
We post this update only to document a tragic fact . . .

Local mainstream media formerly celebrated the KC Defender before they started a fake serial killer rumor and now they're regurgitating antisemitic tropes and talking points seemingly right from the Hamas playbook.

Maybe next time around . . . More scrutiny of this irresponsible blogging effort might be in order especially since THEY'RE NOT HAVING ANY FUN with their writing and FAIL to provide fart jokes and/or links to hottie fashion news.



Here's a silly quote from their latest diatribe that was likely written from the comfort of some coffee house:



"As the imminent genocide in Gaza claims increasingly devastating numberswith 2,360 children already massacred, 1.5 million Palestinians ethnically cleansed from their homes, 6,000 Palestinians martyred (over 50% children, women and elderly), 12 hospitals and 32 medical centers rendered non-functional due to incessant bombing and fuel shortages, and a complete depletion of food, water, and powerKansas Citians are unifying their voices in a collective call to action."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .
Today we start with a politic pronouncement that won't earn Kansas City's Mayor Quinton Lucas any friends on either side of the aisle regarding a controversial local issue of support for law enforcement vs. community activist outcry.

But it's a good place to start the recent volley of news . . .



Regarding recent discussions of a pardon in State of Missouri v. Eric Devalkenaere . . .

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Convicted ex-KCPD officer Eric DeValkenaere transferred to prison Wednesday Eric DeValkenaere, the former Kansas City, Missouri, police officer who was convicted of two felonies in the death of Cameron Lamb nearly four years ago, has been transported to prison.

Activist sentiment and a few community notes . . .



Historic Coalition of Missouri Organizations Unite in Letter Urging Governor Not to Pardon Killer Cop An historic coalition of Missouri organizations urges Governor Parson to uphold the conviction of a Kansas City killer cop.

Newspaper bias is clear in their selective reporting . . .

Freeing DeValkenaere on bond again would be 'rare' and 'different standard,' lawyers say Criminal defense attorneys in the Kansas City area said another appeal bond for Eric DeValkenaere would send a message that a police officer convicted of crimes will be treated differently than others.

Here's what's likely the most objective report over the past 24 hours . . .

Former police detective Eric Devalkenaere transferred to state custody, will begin serving prison sentence Former Kansas City police detective Eric Devalkenaere was convicted of shooting and killing Cameron Lamb. He was sentenced to six years in prison.

Developing . . .
Today the newspaper recycles a tired debate over history without any new spin or fun facts.

What's even more concerning . . . Despite so many rantings about the GOP and loyalty to Prez Trump:

KANSAS CITY STAR PLATFORMS LOCAL ELECTION DENIAL ON ANDREW JACKSON STATUES DESPITE VOTERS CLEARLY DECIDING THIS ISSUE TWO YEARS AGO!!!



Check the social justice thesis that rarely earns any outright mainstream opposition . . .

"For four years, city officials and engaged community groups have been debating the presence of this statue  which to some represents the glorification of slavery and the forced displacement of Indigenous people  in a space where people come to seek justice.



"In 2020, a countywide ballot initiative asked voters to weigh in on the fate of this statue and a similar one that sits in Independence. A majority of voters chose to leave the sculptures in place, yet the debate has continued.



"In June, Jackson County legislators voted 7-1 to remove both Jackson statues and even determined removal costs to clear a path ahead. Many saw this as bringing much-needed finality to the issue, until we learned a few weeks later that legislators will put this on the countywide ballot again in 2024. It feels like were back where we started, when we need to move forward."

The not so stunning conclusion . . .



"Open dialogue and dissenting views are healthy parts of a strong democracy. Each new generation establishes values for itself and challenges symbols of the past that may no longer represent us. We also understand that what we do now creates a road map for the future. We cant afford indecisiveness."

Our retort . . .

LIKE IT OR NOT, VOTERS MADE A DECISION TO KEEP THE STATUES WITH AN OVERWHELMING MAJORITY!!!

For those who don't remember . . .

More than 70% of Jackson County voters in a November 2020 election.

Sadly . . .

Neither social justice activists nor politicos have provided any good reason for opposing an overwhelming percentage of the electorate and local media is too afraid to ask them about it.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Quit living in the past, Kansas City. Time to lose that Andrew Jackson statue downtown | Opinion Each new generation establishes values for itself and challenges symbols of the past that may no longer represent us. Move into a future for everyone. | Opinion

Developing . . .


We want to focus on the crux of the debate and what is likely only the first round amid ongoing law enforcement scrutiny . . . Check-it:



"Last week, District Attorney Steve Howe declined to charge the four Overland Park police officers who were previously responsible for the foundation, a decision the FOP denounced on Tuesday.



"The audit summary says that there is evidence that the four officers committed criminal theft because 'the prior board members acted without authorization in making payments from Foundation funds to themselves.'



"Further, the audit says the foundations financial records are not materially correct and notes that the lack of accountability and controls was striking.' "



"Also, cash donations were not recorded in the internal accounting system, which the audit says made such contributions 'vulnerable' to abuse.



"The foundation also submitted erroneous tax documents to the IRS for 2016 through 2019 and did not file a tax return in 2020."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Overland Park police charity board gave themselves $27,000 and kept 'erratic records,' audit finds The Overland Park FOP criticized the Johnson County District Attorney for deciding not to charge four officers for misusing police charity donations. An audit found the officers made unauthorized payments of foundation funds to themselves and may have attempted to conceal their behavior.

New documents outline use of funds for Overland Park Police Officers' Foundation A newly released report shows four former board members of the Overland Park Police Officers' Foundation wrote checks to themselves or family members.

Developing . . .
The federal government is investing in a North York tech company to help it expand globally and create 15 skilled jobs.

Willowdale MP Ali Ehsassi announced on Friday that the government is giving $1.75 million to L Squared Digital Signage to support the upgrade to its L Squared Hub platform, which allows users to control content such as lobby display screens, menu boards and mobile applications to deliver tailored corporate information, alerts, videos, news and ads to customers.

The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is one of the largest contributors to Canadas overall economy largely due to our competitive and cutting-edge tech businesses," Ehsassi said in a news release Friday. "With todays investment in L Squared Digital Signage, we are supporting over 15 new jobs and positioning our local economy for long-term success.

L Squared was founded in 2007 and is located on Consumers Road in North York.
With ghosts and ghouls partying hard this weekend across North America, Airbnb is taking steps to stop nuisance Halloween celebrations.

The vacation home rental platform says its deploying an "AI-driven anti-party system" across the U.S. and Canada to help reduce the risk of disruptive and unauthorized parties" over the weekend of Oct. 28.

In a news release, Airbnb says the state-of-the-art system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning in an effort to identify potentially higher-risk, one- and two-night booking attempts for full home listings and will prevent those bookings from being made.

While disruptive parties are rare, we want to try to reduce the risk of them even more, says Naba Banerjee, Head of trust and safety at Airbnb in the release. Our AI anti-party system is an important tool in helping us to do that, and were optimistic it will have a positive impact for our community and neighbourhoods this Halloween.

The technology examines hundreds of signals relating to the booking attempt that could indicate a higher risk for a disruptive or unauthorized party incident, including the length of the trip, the distance to the listing, and whether the booking was made at the last-minute.

Measures in effect across the U.S. and Canada this weekend include restrictions on one-night and two-night reservations and mandatory anti-party attestation that compels guests making local reservations to attest they understand that Airbnb bans parties.

Violators may face suspension or removal from the rental platform.

Airbnb implemented an anti-party system for Halloween in 2022 it says deterred thousands of people across the U.S. from booking an entire home listing on the platform  including approximately 15,500 people in California, 11,300 in Florida and 11,000 in Texas.

The company says the measures are part of an ongoing effort to enforce a global party ban in rental properties listed on the platform.
Police have issued a Canada-wide warrant for a man known to frequent Toronto, Brampton and Mississauga.

Kristoff Crawford is currently serving a two-year and three-month sentence for armed robbery, robbery with violence, and possession of a weapon contrary to the prohibition order, police say.

Police have described the suspect as a 30-year-old man, six-foot-three, weighing 210 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.

Police said the man has various tattoos, including a bird and a female on the right upper arm; trust no one on the right arm, 416 on the abdomen; Who Jah Bless No Man Curse on the upper back; Power Respect Bless on the left arm; and praying hands/cross on the right arm.

R.O.P.E. asks anyone with information about the whereabouts of the man to contact them at 416-808-5900 or 1-800-222-8477.
Toronto police have located a missing teen.

Police were asking for public's help in locating the 14-year-old youth earlier this week.

On Oct. 26, police said the teen has been located.

Editor's note: This news article was updated at 11:09 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 26, to state the missing person was found.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- In a congratulatory message to the annual Gala Dinner of the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations and a meeting with Gavin Newsom, governor of the U.S. state of California, on Wednesday, Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated the three principles upheld by China in handling its relations with the United States.

Both Xi and U.S. President Joe Biden sent congratulatory messages to the annual Gala Dinner, which is "encouraging," said Lyazid Benhami, vice president of the Paris Association of French-Chinese Friendship.

It is important to "promote an exceptional relationship between China and the United States, a relationship founded on renewed trust and the desire to overcome differences and cyclical obstacles," Benhami stressed.

Tom Watkins, a former advisor to the Michigan-China Innovation Center, said that "history has demonstrated that building bridges is a much better strategy than building walls or digging moats" between the United States and China.

In a world fraught with tension and uncertainty, a concerted effort to address the problems and existential threats facing both nations and all of humanity is needed, Watkins added.

"It is imperative we find ways to develop a shared vision and common agenda in areas that are in our collective national interests while we have open dialogue on topics where we disagree," Watkins said.

Jeffrey Sachs, economics professor and director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, told Xinhua via email that he agrees with Xi's message that U.S.-China cooperation "will strengthen both countries and benefit the world."

"It is correct and indeed possible," Sachs said.

Peace, the end of poverty worldwide and environmental sustainability will benefit enormously from U.S.-China cooperation, Sachs added.

Heba Gamal, a member of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, echoed the sentiment. Gamal said that promoting cooperation between the powers and easing tensions would help reach a breakthrough in several current world crises.

Greg Cusack, a former member of the U.S. State of Iowa House of Representatives, said: "What has begun as small actually can lead to greater cooperative efforts as, very gradually sometimes, trust is slowly built. Unless China and the United States find a way to truly work together on such imminent threats as global warming, energy and food insufficiencies, the future for all of us does not look very bright at all."

He expressed the hope that both countries could prioritize cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

"It appears that the Chinese are continuing to be a stable partner in sharing their achievements with Newsom in hopes that the world's two top economies can together set a standard for global cooperation in our climate emergency," said Kevin Clark, director of Center for Organic Philosophy, a Washington State-based non-profit organization focusing on green growth.

Newsom's tour in China discloses to the world "the immense progress" China had made in both developing and implementing practical, locally focused climate change strategies both for municipal and regional development, Clark added. 
DAMASCUS, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian army on Thursday launched targeted artillery and missile attacks on positions of the ultra-radical rebel groups in the northwestern province of Idlib, the Syrian Defense Ministry said in a statement.

The Syrian army's calculated attacks destroyed the strongholds and ammunition depots of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and allied militias, along with multiple vehicles, equipment, and a diverse array of ammunition, in the northern and western outskirts of Idlib, said the statement.

The attacks also inflicted heavy casualties on the "terrorist groups," the statement added.

Meanwhile, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based watchdog group, also reported the attacks on rebel positions in Idlib, noting that the rebels responded by shelling areas in the Latakia and Hama provinces.

The military operation in Idlib comes on the heels of escalated drone attacks on government areas in Hama and other areas in western Syria.

On Thursday evening, pro-government Sham FM radio reported the air defenses in Hama intercepted drones in the city of Al-Suqaylabiyah, without providing more details, while the state news agency SANA said three people were killed in a drone attack in Hama's countryside town of Rabia.

The reports did not provide more details.

Earlier this month, a rebel drone attack on a graduation ceremony at the Military Academy in Syria's central province of Homs claimed the lives of at least 80 military personnel and civilians and left 240 others injured.

HTS, previously known as the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, has established control over a large swathe of Idlib. 
Guardian Asset Management and Investment Services has a new leader at the helm, charting a course for new dimensions.
North Korea may become one of the most important arms suppliers to Russia, along with Iran and Belarus.

The UK Ministry of Defence said this in an intelligence update posted on the social platform X Ukrinform reports.

Despite Russias official rejection of recent reports, it is almost certain that North Korean munitions have now reached ammunition depots in western Russia. These depots support Russian military operations in Ukraine, the report says.

It is noted that if North Korea sustains the recent scale and pace of military-related shipments (more than 1,000 containers over the last several weeks), it will be on course to become one of Russias most significant foreign arms suppliers, alongside Iran and Belarus.

It is currently unclear what Russia has agreed to provide North Korea in return. It is unlikely the full package has been finalised; it was highly likely one of the primary discussion topics during recent senior level Russian visits to North Korea, the British intelligence notes.

It will likely include a mixture of financial compensation, other economic support, the provision of military technology, and cooperation on other high technology areas, such as space, the UK intelligence said.

As reported by Ukrinform, 509 children have been killed and more than 1,139 injured in Ukraine as a result of Russias full scale invasion.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang attends the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

Looking back at the founding aspiration of the SCO, its members were brought together to ensure that regional affairs are decided without external interference.

BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Looking back at the founding aspiration of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), its members were brought together to ensure that regional affairs are decided by regional countries through consultation, without interference from those outside the region, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

During his speech at the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States, Li called for jointly building a security barrier in the region and resolutely resisting external interference.

In his speech, Li said the SCO summit in July this year further reached important consensus, and identified key tasks on carrying forward the Shanghai Spirit and building a closer SCO community with a shared future, adding that China is willing to work with all parties to implement the spirit of the summit.

At the Samarkand summit last year, President Xi Jinping stressed the necessity to uphold political trust, win-win cooperation, equality between nations, openness and inclusiveness and equity and justice, which is the key to the success of the SCO's development and growth, Li added.

Looking forward to the future, SCO members should keep in mind the founding aspiration and uphold the key to success, Li said, stressing that guided by the vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, SCO members should work together and make mutual achievements, advance cooperation in various fields in a solid way, and inject more certainty and positive energy into peace and development of the region and the world.

Li offered four proposals on deepening SCO cooperation. First, the SCO members should jointly solidify regional security barrier, firmly reject external interference, improve the organization's mechanism of coping with security threats and challenges as soon as possible, and crack down on the "three forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism as well as transnational organized crimes.

Second, SCO members should jointly promote the speedy economic recovery, cooperate to build safe and efficient transportation systems, continuously promote trade and investment liberalization and facilitation, and maintain steady and smooth industrial supply chains.

Third, the members should jointly enhance the Belt and Road cooperation. The third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation has been successfully held, and the Belt and Road has become the most popular international public goods and the largest international cooperation platform in the past 10 years.

The SCO members should reinforce the alignment of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation with the member states' respective development strategies, push forward the construction of major economic corridors, and develop well the SCO Development Bank.

Fourth, the SCO member states should jointly promote the understanding and amity among their people, and continue to deepen cooperation in areas including education, culture and tourism, and sports.

Leaders including Kazakh Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, Tajik Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda, Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov, Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber, Indian foreign minister, Pakistani foreign minister attended the meeting, together with Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko and Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrai Oyun-Erdene, leaders of two observer states. Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov hosted the meeting.

The SCO is committed to carrying forward the Shanghai Spirit, said participants of the meeting, adding that since its founding 22 years ago, the SCO has continuously developed, with its global influence ever increasing.

They agreed to implement the consensus reached at the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the SCO, jointly combat the "three forces" of terrorism, separatism and extremism and transnational organized crimes, strengthen cooperation in such areas as economy and trade, transportation, agriculture, energy, finance, high and new technology, environmental protection and green development, promote Belt and Road cooperation, improve infrastructure connectivity, and deepen people-to-people exchanges in such fields as tourism and education.

They also agreed to strengthen institutional building of the SCO, practice true multilateralism, jointly safeguard regional security and promote regional prosperity, and help make the international system more inclusive and sustainable.

The Chinese premier and other leaders of the SCO member states attending the meeting signed and issued a joint communique, and approved a series of SCO cooperation documents and resolutions on economy and trade, railways and institution building, among other areas.
The government of Denmark has announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, worth 3.7 billion Danish kroner (over $522 million).

The Ministry of Defense of Denmark stated this on Thursday, Ukrinform reports.

It is noted that the 13th aid package includes IFV-2 and T-72 tanks, armored evacuation vehicles, ammunition and drones.

As reported by Ukrinform, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky met with Minister of Defense of Denmark Troels Lund Poulsen. During the meeting, the parties focused on strengthening the Ukrainian air defenses with modern fighter jets and new air defense systems, and also discussed cooperation within the aircraft coalition and training of Ukrainian pilots on F-16s, which Denmark and other partners are set to transfer to Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen discussed in a phone conversation the importance of further long-term macroeconomic support for Ukraine and agreed on future joint steps in regional and global formats.
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Ruslan Stefanchuk and President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel discussed a range of issues, including Ukraines defense needs, European integration and Euro-Atlantic integration of Ukraine.

The Ukrainian speaker said this in a Facebook post, Ukrinform reports.

An important meeting and an important conversation with President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel. I thank for all the assistance the Czech Republic has provided and continues to provide: military, financial and humanitarian. And at todays meeting, I heard confirmation that the Czech Republic will continue to stand with Ukraine," Stefanchuk noted.

According to him, they discussed the situation on the battlefield, Ukraines defense needs, and the current situation in Ukraines energy sector.

"The European integration is also in the focus of our attention. I thank the Czech Republic for its readiness to help Ukraine on its way to membership in the European Union. I told that the Ukrainian Parliament has adopted all the legislative acts necessary to implement the European Commissions. recommendations. The Euro-Atlantic integration is another important topic. I emphasized that next year, at the Washington Summit, Ukraine seeks to receive an invitation to join the Alliance and a clear understanding of a timeline for membership, the Ukrainian speaker said.

Stefanchuk also emphasized that the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula was also discussed.

As reported by Ukrinform, Ruslan Stefanchuk and the Ukrainian parliamentary delegation are in the Czech Republic on an official visit. On October 24, the second parliamentary summit of the International Crimea Platform was held in Prague. Almost 70 delegations from the parliaments of different countries took part in the event.

Photo: Facebook / Ruslan Stefanchuk

needs with Czech president
Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada Ruslan Stefanchuk has discussed the issue of Ukrainian-Czech cooperation with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic Jan Lipavsky.

The speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament said this in a Facebook post, Ukrinform reports.

It is important that the Czech Republic, like no other, understands that Ukraine protects not only itself and its freedom, but also the entire democratic world. And it is important to feel the support of our partners," he wrote.

Stefanchuk said he discussed topical issues of Ukrainian-Czech cooperation with Lipavsky.

"Ukraine appreciates that the Czech Republic was one of the first countries to adopt the national program for Ukraines recovery," the Verkhovna Rada chairman emphasized.

He also thanked the Czech Republic for the important military, financial and humanitarian assistance provided to Ukraine since the full-scale Russian invasion.

The politicians also paid special attention to defense issues. Stefanchuk stressed that Ukraine needs air defense systems, artillery and ammunition, heavy military equipment.

"Ukraine hopes for further defense support from the Czech Republic and all global partners," the speaker said.

As reported by Ukrinform, Ruslan Stefanchuk took part in the Second Parliamentary Summit of the International Crimea Platform in Prague the day before.

Photo: Stefanchuk / Facebook
Some European officials are trying to squeeze in their wishes into the agenda ahead of the scheduled assessment report by the European Commission of Ukraines progress in European integration, and certain unfriendly countries are trying to belittle it and devalue the Ukrainian efforts.

This was announced by the Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, Olha Stefanishyna, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, reports Ukrinform.

"Today we see that some countries or even some European officials resort to manipulation, trying to squeeze some of their personal wishes into the documents drafted by the European Commission. We also see that there are certain unfriendly countries that are trying to downplay the assessment of Ukraine's progress and, let's say, devalue some of our efforts," the government official said.

Read also: Deputy PM Stefanishyna meets with EU ambassadors

Stefanishyna emphasized that the Ukrainian side sees all those efforts and calls on its friends not go give room for manipulation, especially when it comes to Ukraines European integration.

"This is first of all the choice of the Ukrainian people, so I am sure that our positions are strong and we will achieve a good political decision in December," the deputy prime minister added.

As reported earlier, in June 2022, Ukraine obtained the status of a candidate for the EU membership. The country is required to fulfill seven criteria related to the fight against corruption, respect for freedoms, and other areas. It is expected that on November 8, the European Commission will publish an assessment of what has been done. The transition to the next stage - accession negotiations - will depend on this assessment. Ukraine hopes that such negotiations will be launched before the end of 2023.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen discussed in a phone conversation the importance of further long-term macroeconomic support for Ukraine and agreed on future joint steps in regional and global formats.

As Zelensky posted on Telegram, he thanked Frederiksen for the recent visit of the Minister of Defense of Denmark to Ukraine and all the comprehensive and timely assistance provided by this country, in particular for the patronage that Denmark took over Mykolaiv.

Zelensky and Frederiksen underscored the importance of further long-term macroeconomic support for Ukraine, agreed on future joint steps in regional and global formats and discussed the preservation of unity in Europe and the implementation of the Ukrainian Peace Formula.

The President expressed gratitude for the organization of the first meeting of advisers in Copenhagen and for Denmark's willingness to send its representative to the next meeting in Malta.

As reported, Minister of Defense of Ukraine Rustem Umerov and Minister of Defense of Denmark Troels Lund Poulsen discussed the transfer of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Photo: Volodymyr Zelensky, Telegram
Russia needs to see that its ambitions as an invader will endure less than Ukraines ability to defend its freedom.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his address to the participants of the European Council meeting at the level of the leaders of the EU states, Ukrinform reports with reference to the presidents press service.

Charles, Mr. President!

Dear colleagues!

I am pleased to see you all.

And just before our meeting, I have signed a very important law relating to the European integration  the law on politically exposed persons. This is one of the key laws adopted to fulfill the recommendations of the European Commission to open negotiations on Ukraine's membership in the EU. The law significantly strengthens the financial monitoring of public figures. And in any country, it is not easy for the political class to make such decisions. But now is the time when simple decisions cannot suffice

Because this is the time when each of our decisions determines whether we become stronger in protecting our lives. And this applies not only to Ukraine.

In Ukraine, it is now very clear what is at stake. Life. Life is at stake  as we all value it We all. We all do in Europe.

There are different ideological approaches among us. Some are more liberal, some are more conservative. Some are more active in international affairs, and some perceive their role differently. This is Europe. A continent of different but equal people.

And most importantly, equal in their perception of the basis of life, namely, that Europe is not a place for despising any nation and trying to erase any nation. It is not a place to bring up children in hatred so that they grow up to be murderers. We remember Europe's past... A past in which millions of human lives were destroyed precisely because there was a lack of unity. The kind of unity that exists now. It was the past when someone alone decided and, unfortunately, had the power to decide whether a nation had the right to exist. It is our historical responsibility to prevent the past from ever returning.

We must remember that Russia is not fighting now to stay in our Mariupol or Crimea, but to be able to come to Tartu or Gdansk if the Kremlin wants it. Many of you lived through this past. Russia is trying to change the borders of Ukraine not only to seize one or another of our regions, but also to change any borders that they do not like. And you saw this in the past. Russias attempts to prevent Ukraine's accession to the EU or NATO are not just about our country, they are about much more, about being able to take away from the EU or NATO any nation that is already there, without even asking the will of that nation, but deciding everything for them. This is what the Kremlin is used to.

This war is about deciding what Europe should be like. And it is up to us to decide, not the Kremlin.

Dear colleagues!

Ukraine is doing everything possible to end this war as soon as possible with our people, with our victory  in defense and in building institutions, in international affairs and in putting pressure on the aggressor And I thank each of you who helps us fight.

I thank you for each of the defense packages provided to our soldiers  for weapons and equipment, for shells, for air defense Yesterday, be the way, our soldiers shot down Russian combat drones that were moving towards the Khmelnytsky nuclear power plant Again and again we see what we are dealing with  the evil that can attack even nuclear power plants Air defense is for life. Thank you, thank you all who understand this and help Ukraine with the respective systems and missiles. Sustainable arms supplies for Ukraine mean sustainable security for the whole Europe  for each of our neighbors.

nd I am especially grateful for the new page in our defense cooperation  for the development of the military industry in Ukraine and together with Ukraine. Many European defense companies have joined us. And I invite all European defense companies to come to Ukraine and take our experience to multiply it. This is exactly the kind of cooperation that will make all of us stronger for generations.

I am grateful for the sanctions pressure on Russia  each of the sanctions packages adopted is really needed. The key now is to ensure that all sanctions work to the fullest and that Russia cannot circumvent them... We see that this has become one of the Kremlin's top priorities  to manipulate sanctions and to neutralize them.

So, we should intensify our joint work against this  against all intermediaries that help Russia circumvent sanctions, particularly in Europe and other regions of the world. A new, twelfth package of EU sanctions is being discussed. We have to take into account the experience of all previous packages, and the power of the new EU sanctions step should be greater than the previous ones. Attention should also be paid to the applied price cap on Russian oil  it is obvious that it is not working as effectively as it was expected when it was introduced. It is necessary to reduce the "price cap" and strengthen the mechanisms for its enforcement. And I urge you to work on this together with our partners, with all of us and with our G7 and G20 partners.

And I want to thank Belgium and other nations and leaders who are working to make Russia feel that cost of its brutal attacks. All the assets of the terrorist state and its associates in all available jurisdictions must be frozen and used to compensate for the damage caused by Russian terror. It is fair that the funds accumulated by the Russian regime for the sake of war should be used for peace. And it is an affirmation of the power of law  to use such funds in the interests of the victims of Russia's violation of international law.

And I am grateful for a very effective support instrument long-term programs, including budget support. Among the EU countries, we already have decisions on such programs from Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Lithuania and the European Commission. And, of course, outside of the EU, I thank Norway, Japan, and Switzerland for their long-term steps. A long-term step is also being considered in the United States...

And in confrontations such as the one unleashed by Russia, the winner is the one who provides a long-term strategy. Russia needs to see that its ambitions as an invader will endure less than our ability to defend our freedom. That is why every approved program of such long-term support for Ukraine is a clear signal to Russia that its aggression is in vain, and that no matter how many resources Putin spends in the war, he will not win. The Russian elite needs to see and feel this, so that it will be more difficult for the Russian dictator to maintain his position. So, it is worth expanding this experience of ours  long-term support programs.

Each of these decisions is not easy. But each of them is a defense of freedom and our Europe. A secure Europe.

And one more thing. I thank everyone who is making every effort to preserve unity. Unity with Ukraine. Unity within the European Union. Transatlantic unity.

I would like to emphasize unity with regard to the situation in the Middle East, Charles said about it. And we must do everything to prevent an even larger international fire from breaking out in the Middle East. The enemies of freedom are very interested in bringing the free world to the second front We must clearly see this scenario and counter it  together, of course. I thank all the leaders whose active diplomacy is already working to promote security. The sooner security prevails in the Middle East, the sooner we will restore security here  in Europe.

The clear proof of unity is the participation of the representatives of all your countries in the third meeting of NSAs coming Saturday in Malta together with representatives of all continents, both Americas, Africa, Asia, Australia. They will discuss the Ukraine's Peace Formula, the effective instrument of bringing civility to Europe.

The key geopolitical manifestation of unity for Europe  unity on the issue of EU enlargement  should also be viewed from the perspective of security. It is clear that each nation's path to the EU is a work based on merit and institutional development. Ukraine is doing this work. And I think, it is doing it well. Even despite the full-scale war, we are not asking for exceptions to the general rules. Ukraine has practically implemented 7 recommendations of the European Commission  both the simpler solutions and the solutions that were difficult for politicians. And we are counting on your unity in response  the decision to start negotiations on Ukraines accession to the European Union.

This decision will be one of the strongest in that decade, and in many ways, it will determine the entire future path of the European Union. Either all of our Europe, together with Ukraine, together with Moldova, and in the future, together with Georgia and Belarus,  will win, or The past will win.

I am sure you are all on the side of modern Europe. We must win.

Thank you very much for your attention!

May the EU be strong!

Glory to Ukraine!

Photo: Presidents Office
Ukraine is especially looking forward to the EU's political decision on the start of negotiations on the countrys membership in the European Union.

Thats according to Zelenskys evening address to the nation, released on Thursday, Ukrinform reports.

The president noted that Ukraine continues to prepare a meeting in Malta where Ukraines Peace Formula will be discussed.

"We are adding more participants," Zelensky noted.

He also reported that he took part in the work of the European Council, where the leaders of the EU states, European Council President Charles Michel, as well as President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metzola were present.

Read also: Zelensky addresses European Council meeting participants

"The European Union is preparing several steps that we are expecting. This includes new sanctions against Russia and new steps in support of Ukraine. We are particularly anticipating the EU's political decision to open negotiations on our country's membership, and from our side, we are doing everything to be prepared," Zelensky said.

He also recalled that on Thursday he signed off "one of the most important laws on the path to starting the negotiations  the law on PEPs, politically exposed persons.

This law strengthens the financial monitoring of the lives of key state officials and members of parliament. Its adoption is a clear signal of how seriously Ukraine takes the task of joining the European Union and making the work of its public institutions truly transparent," the president emphasized.

As reported, on October 28-29, the Third Peace Formula Summit will be held in Malta involving the leaders of the so-called Global South.
| By Emily Bleiweis

Over decades, libraries have grown from spaces solely to check out books into community hubs. They offer job resources, access to computers, educational opportunities, and more.

Nationwide, there are an estimated 17,000 public libraries receiving 4 million visits daily, according to a study published in the Journal of Community Health.

And now, in Maryland, some libraries are capitalizing on that community trust to help address health disparities.

A newly created partnership between the University of Maryland School of Nursing (UMSON) and the Prince Georges County Memorial Library System (PGCMLS) will provide much-needed health resources to the community while providing a critical clinical experience for nursing students.

The initiative  Talk Health with the University of Maryland School of Nursing  places entry Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students from UMSON at the Universities at Shady Grove in the PGCMLS Greenbelt Branch Library on Mondays this fall.

The collaboration between UMSON and the library system expands work that began early this year. Last spring, UMSON BSN students were placed in multiple branches of the Enoch Pratt Free Library throughout Baltimore in a partnership that was the first of its kind in Maryland.

For BSN student Bukola Oladipuo, working directly with community members is extremely fulfilling, especially when it comes to educating them about the importance of managing their health.

A lot of people  after checking them, we realize that they didnt take their blood pressure medication that morning, Oladipuo said. Letting them know how important it is to be compliant with the medication regimen  its something rewarding for me.

A Hands-On Lesson in Care

Oladipuo especially likes to be able to provide care to others  thats why she decided to pursue nursing. And this community-embedded clinical experience allows her to do just that.

Each week, she and her fellow classmates spend the day at the Greenbelt Branch Library providing health screenings such as blood pressure checks, light physical activity programs, and educational presentations on topics such as high cholesterol and diabetes.

As flu season approaches, the students have also provided information about vaccinations and where to receive them.

What we are doing in this location is engaging with different people, most especially with older adults, because this community has retirees, Oladipuo said. They come to the library for different activities. So far, we have some people that dont know how to follow up with their health.

Talk Health with the University of Maryland School of Nursing  while beneficial to the community  also provides a crucial important opportunity for nursing students to learn about community health in a hands-on way.

This type of clinical experience allows students to interact with community members who may come from different backgrounds than those they see in a hospital setting, said Sarah Chapman, MS, RN, the UMSON clinical instructor who is leading the clinical rotation at the library.

We want to try to have the students have an experience outside of the hospital so they can see what are the kinds of challenges that people have in their everyday life, she said. We want to meet people where they are. They get an important, but limited, experience in the hospital. So, we try and get them out of the hospital into the community to try and serve a wide variety of people.

Building Healthier Communities

And this model  of meeting community members where they already are  really works.

Public libraries and public health are a natural combination, said Karin Russ, JD, MS 09, BSN 89, RN, UMSON assistant professor. Libraries are one of the last free spaces, and they provide the public with access to information and technology. And now, they will provide the ability to talk with health professionals one-on-one.

By partnering with UMSON for the Talk Health series, PGCMLS continues a long tradition of offering health resources to Prince Georges County residents, said PGCMLS Central Area Director Quemar Rhoden, who worked closely with UMSON to help launch the partnership.

The Prince Georges County Memorial Library System is able to provide access to health information and resources to the public with key services such as blood pressure screenings, medication education, and primary care referrals, Rhoden said. The University of Maryland School of Nursing is an amazing organization, and we are truly grateful for their entire team that makes such a meaningful impact in the lives, and health, of our customers.

Tiffany Connelly, a Prince Georges County resident, just happened to stop at the library on a recent Monday in October so her son could use the restroom. In doing so, she came across the blood pressure station and decided to stop.

It was nice and free and easy, Connelly said. This is awesome. I really love it. I probably would not have thought about what my blood pressure was. But they were here and so I was able to just get it on a run into the bathroom and go on my way.

And, after getting it checked, she was also able to receive information about flu shots in the county.

There's a lot of people who cant always get to these kinds of things or go to a doctor, she added. So, its really nice when the things come to the community instead of the community suffering or not having access.

Russ, who coordinates clinical experiences for the BSN Community and Public Health nursing course and has been teaching public health and environmental health classes at UMSON since 2009, said the school looks forward to being able to help improve health equity in Prince Georges County.

This new partnership is a cost-effective way to build healthier communities, she added.

For more information about the partnership, and to see the full schedule, visit https://tinyurl.com/d9c3zvmb.
BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Thursday that China is ready to work with Tajikistan to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, so as to better meet global challenges and promote common development and prosperity.

Li made the remarks while meeting with Tajik Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States.
ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Collaboration on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) has proved crucial to high-quality China-Ethiopia cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), an Ethiopian government official has said.

Teshale Berecha, Ethiopia's state minister of Labor and Skills, told Xinhua that Ethiopia is keen to deepen TVET collaboration with China to attain the much-needed human resource capabilities and eventually a skilled workforce adaptable to the ever-evolving demands of the global job market.

The state minister stressed the crucial role of the TVET sector in the implementation of infrastructure and other socio-economic development projects under the China-proposed BRI.

"Human resource development is the critical impetus to ensuring the quality of infrastructure to be built as part of the BRI," said Berecha.

The Ethiopian government strongly emphasizes the role of the TVET sector in generating the desired trained workforce to support current and future investments across all development sectors in the country, including agriculture, infrastructure development, manufacturing, service and other development sectors, Berecha added.

The state minister said TVET collaboration with China over the past decades has produced well-trained human resources in Ethiopia, contributing to the sector's development.

"We are really grateful for the cooperation between the two countries (in the TVET sector), and we are now upgrading our cooperation to a very high level so as to deepen the previous cooperation to a more increased bilateral connection between the two countries," said the official.

The state minister said the Ethiopian government is currently reforming the education and training sector to improve its quality and relevance to the labor market.

Berecha lauded China's significant achievements in improving the training and education system, and underscored Ethiopia's aspiration to further harness the already thriving China-Ethiopia cooperation in the TVET sector.

"We need to learn a lot from the Chinese experience on how they achieved this high-level growth within a short period of time. We need to explore the 'newcomer advantage' where we can easily learn from our counterparts, like China, to cope with the dynamic environment of technology and labor market needs," the state minister said.

In its BRI cooperation with China, a host of crucial infrastructure development projects in Ethiopia, ranging from roads, railways, industrial parks, energy development projects to export-oriented industries, have yielded tangible results. 
CAIRO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a pivotal development initiative in favour of all, said an Egyptian expert.

"The BRI is extremely important for humanity, not just for China," said Diaa Helmy, an Egyptian expert on Chinese affairs, in a recent interview with Xinhua.

Over the past decade, the initiative has made a positive impact on developing countries by upgrading infrastructure in partner states, especially those in Africa and Asia, said Helmy, secretary-general of the Cairo-based Egyptian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Proposed by China in 2013, the BRI can be described as "the initiative of the century" or "the initiative of modern human history," said the Egyptian expert, adding that it has greatly boosted cooperation among participating states in the face of various challenges.

"The success of the initiative can be seen in its growing popularity and the increasing cooperation among BRI states," he said.

The initiative is vital for developing economies in general, particularly those in Africa, and is expected to lead them "to broad horizons of development, progress and prosperity," said the expert.

He pointed out that amid growing conflicts and tensions worldwide, the BRI seeks win-win partnerships and common development among participating countries.

Noting that Egypt was one of six countries officially invited to join BRICS, he said cooperation between Egypt and China has been on the rise in recent years and is to reach new horizons in the near future.

Egypt and China can work together for the development of Africa through the localization of Chinese advanced industries and the transfer of Chinese technologies to the continent, according to Helmy.

With its potential market and strategic status, Egypt can be a regional hub for the localization of Chinese technologies and industries, and become a key bridge connecting China, Africa and the Arab world under the BRI framework, he added. 
Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), in collaboration with the Research for Social Transformation & Advancement (RASTA) programme and the Pakistan Society of Development Economists (PSDE), will hold the second two-day Economy Festival EconFest-2023 from October 28-29 here at the Pak- China Friendship Centre

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE), in collaboration with the Research for Social Transformation & Advancement (RASTA) programme and the Pakistan Society of Development Economists (PSDE), will hold the second two-day Economy Festival EconFest-2023 from October 28-29 here at the Pak- China Friendship Centre.

For the event, PIDE would bring together leading economists, public policy experts, practitioners, professionals, academicians, and prominent personalities from various fields to address Pakistan's pressing economic challenges, a news release said.

PIDE said there would be no registration fee to participate in the festival and it would be open for all.

The Institute, with its rich tradition of convening experts to tackle the intricate challenges faced by the country offers a unique opportunity for the broader public to engage directly with the genuine issues impacting that national economy. It serves as a platform for concerned citizens to engage in meaningful dialogues with experts from diverse backgrounds.

PIDE promises an amazing experience with 33 esteemed partners, 27 enriching sessions, over 200 experts sharing their insights, a vibrant cultural show, a cutting-edge tech exhibition, an inclusive academic exhibition, a literary journey at the book exhibition, excitements at the fun zone, and delectable delights at the food court.

Students and faculty members from various universities, including LUMS, University of the Punjab, Arid Agriculture University, NUML University, SZABIST Islamabad, IMSciences Peshawar, FAST National University, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Riphah University, Quaid-i-Azam University, the National Incubation Centre for Aerospace Technology, Air University, Rawalpindi Women University, University of Haripur, Federal Urdu University, University of Wah, National Defence University, and Foundation University, are actively participating in the mega event.

By working together, we can attain the festival's aims of fostering meaningful dialogues and generating insights into the economic challenges facing Pakistan, PICE Vice Chancellor Dr Nadeem ul Haque said.
(UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 26th Oct, 2023) DUBAI, 26th October, 2023 (WAM)  Emirates Post Group, in partnership with Mohammed bin Rashid Library (MBRL), has unveiled commemorative stamps as well as a unique souvenir sheet celebrating the cultural evolution within the UAE. The issuance underscores and highlights MBRL's significant role as a lighthouse of knowledge, culture, and creativity in the UAE and Arab world.

During an exclusive launch event held at the library, the new stamps were presented to His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, in the presence of distinguished VIP guests.

Mohammed Ahmed Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, said: Postage stamps have always been a witness to the events that nations hold and the achievements they make, to reflect identity, culture, and creativity that is passed from generation to generation.

Al Murr added: Releasing a postage stamp for the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a pioneering step that establishes its position as one of the leading cultural landmarks in the UAE and reflects its role in supporting and promoting knowledge and culture regionally and locally.

Al Murr continued: The post represents a bridge between the past and the present and shows that a simple stamp can tell a story of prosperity and progress. This stamp will be a valuable addition to stamp collections, as it highlights one of the most pioneering cultural and knowledge initiatives that played a significant role in the renaissance of the UAEs cultural movement and marked a new chapter in its history.



Commenting on the occasion, Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, Group CEO of Emirates Post Group Company, said, "This commemorative issuance embodies MBRL's relentless pursuit of innovation and leadership across various disciplines of knowledge. We are honoured to support MBRL's pioneering cultural endeavours that underscore our dedication to advancing the UAE's global standing as a cultural and intellectual powerhouse. This issuance reflects our shared passion for nurturing a culture of learning and knowledge dissemination, while acknowledging our nation's pivotal role in championing knowledge-based economies and societies."

Established under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Mohammed bin Rashid Library is designed to serve as a cultural and intellectual hub for present and future generations. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role in enriching the nation's knowledge economy. The library's mission is to stimulate a passion for knowledge by actively promoting reading, research, and literary creativity across all segments of society, with a special focus on youth. Furthermore, the library is dedicated to preserving the UAE's cultural heritage, including its inherited values and wisdom.

Beyond its role as a repository of knowledge, the library provides high-quality information services that elevate research and learning experiences. It fosters a vibrant intellectual environment by hosting a diverse range of cultural events, knowledge-exchange workshops, and activities promoting the exchange of ideas. In this way, MBRL stands as a prominent regional house of wisdom and cultural resource.
(@FahadShabbir)

Eight former Indian Navy personnel were handed the death penalty at the Court of First Instance in Qatar who were found guilty of spying on a submarine programme

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Eight former Indian Navy personnel were handed the death penalty at the Court of First Instance in Qatar who were found guilty of spying on a submarine programme.

The defendants, who are former naval officers, have been imprisoned in Qatar since October 2022 on accusations of spying on behalf of Israel, according to a Khaleej Times report.

The sentenced Indian Navy personnel included Captain Navtej Singh Gill, Captain Saurabh Vashisht, Commander Purenendu Tiwari, Captain Birendra Kumar Verma, Commander Sugunakar Pakala, Commander Sanjeev Gupta, Commander Amit Nagpal and Sailor Ragesh.

The eight Indian nationals worked at Qatars Dahra Global Technologies and Consulting Services.

It is a private company that offered training and various other services to the defense and security agencies of Qatar, according to the Indian media.

The Indian nationals, all employees of Al Dahra company, were taken into custody in August last year.

The company was shut down in May 2023, Al Jazeera reports. The company had employed as many as 75 Indian nationals, most of them being former Navy personnel.

According to the report, the New Delhi had been granted consular access to the eight Indians and had been working to secure their release. The Indian nationals had their first trial in late March.

Meetu Bhargava, the sister of one of the detained officers, sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back.
(@Abdulla99267510)

Sarfraz Bugti says the government has finalized a comprehensive repatriation plan for these illegal foreigners.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Oct 26th, 2023) Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti says the no compromise will be made at all on the deadline given for voluntary repatriation of foreign nationals including Afghans staying illegally in Pakistan.

Addressing a news conference in Islamabad today, he said the government has finalized a comprehensive repatriation plan for these illegal foreigners.

The Interior Minister said under this plan, Holding Centers have been established with mutual consultation of all four provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, where these people will be provided shelter with all facilities in a dignified manner.

He dispelled the impression that the government of Pakistan desires repatriation of Afghans only. He said the repatriation deadline is for every foreigner, who is staying illegally in Pakistan. He said no country accepts an individual to come and stay through illegal means.

Sarfaraz Bugti said those illegal foreigners, who would be provided stay at Holding Centers for onward repatriation to their respective countries, would be allowed to take amount in their local Currency equal to 50 thousand Pakistani rupees. He said taking amount in shape of Dollars would not be allowed at all.

He warned that a strict action according the law of the land will be taken against the Pakistani nationals, who would be involved in facilitating the illegal foreigners in obtaining documents, properties and managing businesses in Pakistan.

The Interior Minister said the government has completed geo-fencing of all illegal foreigners and the State has their data as well.

Replying to a question, Sarfaraz Bugti said it is a challenging task, but we as a State, have a capacity to counter this challenge.

Replying yet another question, he said we can facilitate illegal foreigners on humanitarian grounds, but those are involved in destroying out social fabric would be dealt with iron hands.

The Interior Minister expressed his resolve that time will come that no illegal foreigner will be staying in the country.

He pledged that no manhandling will be done during the process of repatriation of the illegal foreigners.

Answering yet another question, Sarfaraz Bugti said a Cell has been established in the Interior Ministry with a hotline where complainants can register complaints. He said people can also share information about any illegal foreigner on this hotline as well.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Caretaker Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication Dr. Umar Saif Thursday said that the government was taking various steps to provide all possible facilities to the Information Technology and Telecom industry

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Caretaker Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication Dr. Umar Saif Thursday said that the government was taking various steps to provide all possible facilities to the Information Technology and Telecom industry.

No doubt about the potential in Pakistan's IT sector, the industry is playing a significant role in the stability of the country's economy, the government is taking steps to provide all possible facilities to the IT industry he said, while addressing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony for strategic partnership between HBL and Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA)

The minister said there was a need to be Brand Pakistan and marketed globally in the desired manner.

Dr. Umar Saif further said, I am delighted to be part of the event and hope that this collaboration will play a vital role and fostering the growth and development of the IT sector domestically and internationally.

Mentioning the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), he said that all required facilities were being provided to boost the IT & Telecom sector.

Dr. Saif highlighted the SIFCs recent decision that IT companies could now retain 50% of their revenue in US dollar accounts. These companies will also be provided with corporate debit cards by the banks, which can be freely used to make international payments.

This step, he said, had been taken on the recommendation of the IT industry (P@SHA) and aimed to encourage the Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services (ITeS) to boost export earnings and bring additional foreign exchange into the country.

As per the MoU, HBL, Pakistans Best Bank, has entered a multi-year partnership with the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), the countrys only IT industry association, to support them in launching a series of impactful engagements locally and globally.

Through this collaboration, HBL aims to support P@SHA in positioning Pakistan as a growing tech destination in the global market. The banks extensive collaboration with stakeholders has given it a deep understanding of the industrys needs, enabling it to offer tailored financial solutions.

Commenting on the initiative, Muhammad Aurangzeb, President & CEO  HBL, said, We believe that the IT industry has the potential to be a major driver of economic growth and job creation in Pakistan. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to becoming a Technology Company with a Banking License.

It will provide an opportunity for HBL to engage with key stakeholders in the IT, freelancer, software, and gaming industry and showcase its innovative financial solutions and services that can meet the specific needs of the IT sector.

Speaking at the occasion, Muhammad Zohaib Khan, Chairman  P@SHA, said: With HBL by our side, P@SHA is ready to embark on a transformative journey for Pakistan's tech landscape. This strategic partnership will propel us toward realizing our vision of making Pakistan a hub for technology excellence. Together, we will open new doors of opportunity, innovation, and global recognition for our IT industry.
(@FahadShabbir)

A local court on Thursday handed over former chief minister Punjab Chaudhry Parvez Elahi to Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on 2-day physical remand in a case of illegal appointments in the Punjab Assembly

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) A local court on Thursday handed over former chief minister Punjab Chaudhry Parvez Elahi to Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on 2-day physical remand in a case of illegal appointments in the Punjab Assembly.

Earlier, the ACE Punjab officials produced Parvez Elahi before Judicial Magistrate Imran Abid in the district courts here.

The ACE's prosecutor submitted that the accused was involved in a case of illegally appointing 12 persons in the Punjab Assembly. He submitted that the accused could not be interrogated earlier in the matter as he was sent on judicial remand and later, an anti-corruption court granted him post-arrest bail in the matter.

However, the anti-corruption court had withdrawn the bail and the ACE had been granted permission to get physical remand of the accused for interrogation, he added. The prosecutor pleaded with the court to grant 14-day physical remand of the accused for interrogation.

However, Parvez Elahi's counsel opposed the remand plea, adding that his client had no relation with the case.

The court, after hearing detailed arguments of the parties, handed over Parvez Elahi to ACE Punjab on 2-day physical remand and ordered for producing him on expiry of the remand term.

On October 24, the judicial magistrate had ordered to produce Parvez Elahi on October 26 after bringing him from Adiala Jail on an application filed by the ACE Punjab.

The ACE Punjab had alleged that Chaudhry Parvez Elahi recruited 12 Grade-17 officers in the Punjab Assembly against merit.

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court (LHC) reserved verdict on a plea filed by Chaudhry Parvez Elahi against the orders of October 24 of the judicial magistrate for summoning him in the case of illegal appointments in Punjab Assembly.

Parvez Elahi's counsel had argued that his client had challenged the orders of withdrawing post-arrest bail by the anti-corruption court in the LHC and the matter was fixed for hearing on November 1. He submitted that the judicial magistrate had ordered to produce his client on October 26 on an application by the ACE in connection with the case. He pleaded with the court to suspend the orders as the pending petition would become ineffective.

Moreover, the judicial magistrate discharged Parvez Elahi in a sugar mills quota case, after turning down a plea for physical remand.

The ACE officials had requested the court to grant physical remand of Parvez Elahi as he illegally enhanced the quota of favorite sugar mills in violation of the rules, during his tenure as chief minister Punjab.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) The Foreign Office on Thursday said Pakistans action against illegal foreigners on its soil, including their deportation, was in accordance with law of the land.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch at a weekly press briefing said the implementation of these laws was being carried out for the safety and security of the country.

She said Pakistan was in touch with the interim Afghan government over the return of illegal Afghans as the repatriation plan comes into effect on November 1.

We explained to them that this policy doesnt pertain to Afghans only and extends to all nationalities without valid documents to stay in Pakistan, she said.

Asked if Pakistan intended to appoint a full-fledged ambassador in Afghanistan, she said Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani as the current Head of Mission in Kabul would continue to perform his duties in the same position.

On the situation in Gaza, she said Pakistans position was consistent demanding an end to cease fire, indiscriminate bombing, and siege of Gaza. Pakistan stood for the establishment of the state of Palestine with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital, she added.

"Our Palestinian brothers and sisters in Gaza are at the receiving end of an inhumane campaign of collective punishment by the Israeli occupation forces. We mourn the over 6500 civilians killed in Gaza including 2700 children as a result of Israels relentless and indiscriminate bombardment," she said.

Baloch said Pakistan looked forward to the outcome of today's extraordinary emergency session of the United Nations General Assembly after the UN Security Council failed to even call for a cease-fire and put an end to the carnage in Gaza.

She said Pakistan expected from the UNSC a more responsive and pro-active role and added that any reforms or expansion needed to be of democratic nature rather than creating new centres of privileges.

She rejected the notion that Pakistan exported any armaments and ammunition to Ukraine during its fight with Russia.

Asked if Pakistan charged fees to the dignitaries from the Gulf during the hunting season of falcons, the FO spokesperson said there was a comprehensive and streamlined mechanism in place to facilitate these foreigners.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she said, made recommendations to the provincial governments about the visit of dignitaries, and the provinces collected the hunting fee.

She said the hunting activity contributed to the socio-economic development of local areas and also strengthened bilateral ties with the countries.

To a question on the United States decision to put sanctions on Chinese entities for allegedly facilitating Pakistans missile system, she said such designations contradicted the U.S. policy of export control waivers granting access to India to advance its capacity, thus undermining the strategic stability of South Asia.

Baloch said Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani was in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to attend the Council of Heads of Government at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Pakistan, today, would assume the chair of the Council - the second highest forum within SCO, she added.

The spokesperson said on October 27, the 76th anniversary of a dark day in the history of South Asia would be marked when in 1947, the Indian occupation forces landed in Jammu and Kashmir.

She said the people of Kashmir never accepted the illegal occupation of their land nor the systematic campaign by India to suppress them by force and to turn them into a disempowered minority in their own land.

"Pakistan will continue to provide political, moral, and diplomatic support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters until they realize their inherent right to self-determination as per the UNSC resolutions," she said.
San Francisco, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) A year ago Elon Musk purchased X, formerly known as Twitter, taking the platform on a journey that has resulted in lost money, advertisers and trust.

Musk closed the $44 billion deal on October 27, 2022, facing a lawsuit that held him to terms of purchase he was keen to escape.

Here is a look back at Musk's first year as owner of the platform.

- Family feeling gone -

In the days after his purchase, Musk quickly fired executives who had been running Twitter and took the publicly traded company private.

He also laid off most of the San Francisco-based company's workers, cutting ranks to fewer than 1,500 from 8,000.

Twitter employees were asked to commit unconditionally to their jobs and forego any notion of telecommuting.

Former project manager Esther Crawford, who wrote online about her experience, said Musk replaced the company's family atmosphere with a climate of fear.

She described Musk as audacious but "moody," surrounding himself with "yes men" and making decisions on instinct.

In July, Musk did away with Twitter's globally recognized bird logo and changed the platform's name to X.

- Misinformation -

In the months following his takeover, Musk gutted content moderation, restored accounts of previously banned extremists, and allowed users to purchase account verification, helping them profit from viral -- but often inaccurate -- posts.

Musk defended such changes in the name of free speech.

He disabled features put in place to prevent users from being duped by false claims and put in new systems that encourage their spread, according to nonprofit fact-checking website PolitiFact.

Steps taken by Musk at X "have sparked increased sharing of misinformation and hate speech," PolitiFact said Monday in a report, echoing an array of groups tracking toxic content on social media.

The fast-evolving Israel-Hamas conflict has been seen as one of the first real tests of Musk's version of the platform during a major crisis. For many experts, the results confirm their worst fears: that changes have made it a challenge to discern truth from fiction.

"It is sobering, though not surprising, to see Musk's reckless decisions exacerbate the information crisis on Twitter surrounding the already tragic Israel-Hamas conflict," Nora Benavidez, senior counsel at the watchdog Free Press, told AFP.

This month the European Commission announced an investigation into X for alleged dissemination of bogus information and terrorist content regarding the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

X chief executive Linda Yaccarino has signaled that the platform is serious about trust and safety, but researchers have voiced pessimism, saying the site has abandoned efforts to elevate top news sources.

- Money matters -

Over the past year, the platform's advertising business partially collapsed as marketers soured on X.

Insider Intelligence forecasts that X will finish 2023 with $2.98 billion in ad revenue, compared to $4.14 billion in 2022.

Musk early this year said the company's value had more than halved to $20 billion, and some estimates place it even lower.

Musk started charging for features once free at Twitter, such as blue tick marks originally intended as badges of authenticity, in an effort to make money from subscriptions.

And X recently started charging new users in New Zealand and the Philippines for basic features such as posting messages in a trial aimed at reducing spam.

Musk has suggested charging all X users, but the idea was widely panned. Industry analysts said it would make X even less appealing to advertisers.

"X's wounds are almost entirely self-inflicted," Insider Intelligence analyst Jasmine Enberg told AFP.

"Musk's treatment of the platform as a technology he could remake in his vision, rather than as a social network powered by people and ad Dollars, is the single largest cause of advertiser exodus, user decline and loss of its place as a central hub for news."

While speaking at a recent tech conference, Yaccarino estimated the number of daily active X users at 225 million, a drop of more than 10 percent from when Musk bought the company.

Twitter quitters have become a diaspora of sorts, spread across Mastodon, Bluesky, Threads and other platforms in search of a new social media home.

- Right-wing tilt -

Extreme right-wing content has meanwhile flourished at X.

Musk reinstated former president Donald Trump's account and did away with a team devoted to fighting misinformation about elections.

Former Fox news host Tucker Carlson, known for radical conservative opinions, launched a show on X after being fired from the television station.

Catering to the more mainstream right, Musk hosted and streamed interviews with Republican US presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
MOGADISHU, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Somali government on Thursday approved a bill aimed at enhancing efforts to combat maritime crimes such as piracy and kidnapping, with the goal of ensuring the safety of the country's extensive coastline for economic activities.

The anti-piracy and anti-kidnapping bill, which outlines severe penalties for individuals involved in maritime crimes, was presented to the cabinet by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hassan Moalim Mohamud. The bill will be submitted to the parliament for approval.

In addition to defining relevant offenses and specifying corresponding penalties, the bill provides clear guidelines for handling piracy suspects and detention procedures.

Mohamud said that the new legislative framework will bolster actions against piracy and kidnapping in the waters along the Indian coastline and other international maritime areas, which marks a significant milestone in curbing piracy and guaranteeing a fair and transparent judicial process for the accused.

"The 1975 law currently in place falls short in addressing the complexities of crimes that often cross our borders. It is imperative that our laws align with international standards and meet the legal needs of our society," he said.

Over the past decade, many Somali citizens accused of piracy activities have been apprehended, tried and sentenced in neighbouring countries for offenses committed along their coastline. 
The Chinese government will provide another batch of emergency humanitarian assistance of 15 million yuan (about $2.05 million), including food and medicine to Gaza, said Xu Wei, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency on Thursday

BEIJING, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) The Chinese government will provide another batch of emergency humanitarian assistance of 15 million Yuan (about $2.05 million), including food and medicine to Gaza, said Xu Wei, spokesman for the China International Development Cooperation Agency on Thursday.

China is saddened by the fact that the Palestinian-Israeli conflict has resulted in a large number of civilian casualties and a significant deterioration of the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Xu said.

To help alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, China has already provided $1 million in cash through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East and the Palestinian National Authority separately, Xu said.

APP/asg
Hospitals in ravaged Gaza are ceasing to function because they are running out of water and fuel for generators, while being overwhelmed by huge numbers of casualties and civilians seeking shelter from Israeli bombing, according to UN agencies

UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Hospitals in ravaged Gaza are ceasing to function because they are running out of water and fuel for generators, while being overwhelmed by huge numbers of casualties and civilians seeking shelter from Israeli bombing, according to UN agencies.

Doctors, health administrators and international aid organizations describe nightmarish conditions, including doctors forced to operate with little or no anaesthesia, or by the light of mobile phones, and using vinegar in some cases in place of antiseptic.

Not only are Gazas hospitals overwhelmed by thousands of patients with traumatic wounds from constant aerial bombardment, but they are also filled with tens of thousands of people seeking shelter, making it even harder to attend to the wounded.

An alert from Gazas main hospital in the south of the enclave that lifesaving operations would stop on Wednesday evening because of fuel shortages followed an appeal from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire.

A truce was needed, the UN chief told the Security Council on Tuesday, to ease epic suffering, make the delivery of aid easier and safer and facilitate the release of hostages.

He said although nothing could justify the appalling attacks by Hamas of 7 October, it was important to recognize they did not happen in a vacuum and did not justify the collective punishment of Palestinians.

On Wednesday, the UN Palestine refugee agency (UNRWA) said that in the past 24 hours three more staff members had been killed as the Israeli bombardment continues across Gaza, bringing the total to 38 since the full military siege began.

One school in Rafah in the far south which was sheltering some 4,600 IDPs sustained severe damage due to a close proximity strike, UNRWA reported.

The Hamas-run Ministry of Health is reporting close to 5,800 deaths inside Gaza since 7 October, including 2,360 children. More than 16,000 have been injured.

In the West Bank, 95 people have been killed and 1,900 injured, UNRWA said.

The trauma of survivors and the collective psychological burden brought on by the hostage crisis in which over 220 Israelis and foreign nationals were still being held captive in Gaza has sent mental health needs soaring, UN health agency WHOs Special Representative in Israel Dr. Michel Thieren said.

When visiting a hospital in the southern Israeli city of Ashkelon which is treating many of the 4,600 people wounded in the attacks, Dr. Thieren said that almost every one of those survivors had seen someone else die before they themselves were injured.

The WHO official underscored that the mental health of doctors and nurses he met in Israel had been strongly affected by survivors accounts and the wounds they were treating.

He also visited military bases where the mutilated bodies of many of the 1,400 victims of the Hamas attacks are stored in refrigerated containers and spoke about the impact on the doctors and forensic experts struggling to identify them.

I have visited ghost towns in the south whose populations have been evacuated. There is still the terrible stench of death. [] The shadow of national shock and grief has plunged this country into night. When mental health perishes, so does physical health, Dr Thieren said.

Meanwhile in Gaza, the UN agency for Palestine refugees, UNRWA, which is the largest humanitarian provider in the enclave, warned that unless fuel is allowed in, it will be forced to halt all operations as of Wednesday night.

Gaza has been under a full electricity blackout since 11 October and fuel shortages have compromised essential services from ambulances to bakeries and water facilities.

According to media reports, a fourth humanitarian aid convoy arrived in the enclave through the Rafah border crossing late on Tuesday, consisting of eight trucks from the Egyptian Red Crescent.

Tuesday also saw the highest fatality toll reported in a single day in Gaza during this round of hostilities, the UN humanitarian affairs coordination office (OCHA) said.

Some 704 Palestinians including 305 children were killed, bringing the total death toll in the territory to 5,791 according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.

Joining its voice to the UN chiefs calls for a humanitarian ceasefire, UN Women has highlighted the plight of women and girls in the Gaza Strip amid the escalation.

Speaking to UN News, UN Women Deputy Executive Director Sarah Hendriks stressed the urgent need for women and girls in Gaza to access safe shelter, protection and maternal healthcare. She said that according to UNFPA, the UN Population Fund, some 50,000 women in Gaza are currently pregnant and over 5,500 are expected to give birth just in the next month.

Access to healthcare is tightening by the hour in Gaza. WHO said on Tuesday that a third of hospitals and nearly two thirds of primary health care clinics in the territory have shut down.

Ms. Hendriks also said that the violence has produced close to 900 new female headed households and highlighted the struggle of widows to provide for their families. She warned about the ever-present threat of gender-based violence compounded by mass displacement and conditions in overcrowded shelters.

We will continue to remain on the ground listening to the voices of women and girls, hearing their perspectives and translating those to the international community so that their needs can be prioritized even as the solutions to the overall conflict are being addressed, Ms. Hendriks said.
San Francisco, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Meta on Wednesday reported that its quarterly profit more than doubled from last year's figure to $11.6 billion as ad revenue climbed.

The tech firm behind Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp said revenue also grew 23 percent to $34 billion when compared to the same period a year earlier.

"We had a good quarter for our community and business," Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said in an earnings release.

The number of people using Facebook monthly rose slightly to 3.05 billion in a year-over-year comparison while monthly active users of Meta's "family" of apps was 3.96 billion in a 7 percent increase from the same quarter in 2022, the company reported.

Meta said it had trimmed costs in the recently ended quarter, with layoffs and other belt-tightening measures started last year providing "greater efficiency."

Meta had suffered a rough 2022 amid a souring economic climate, which forced advertisers to cut back on spending, and Apple's data privacy changes, which allowed users to block ad targeting, the pillar of Meta's business.

Meta's vow of austerity on spending brought an unprecedented round of cost-cutting that saw the company lay off tens of thousands of workers since last November.

Meta shares, which closed the formal trading day down, rose more than 2 percent in after-hours trades to $306.69.

Dozens of US states this week accused Meta of profiting "from children's pain," damaging their mental health and misleading people about the safety of its platforms.

"In seeking to maximize its financial gains, Meta has repeatedly misled the public about the substantial dangers of its Social Media Platforms," argued a joint lawsuit filed in Federal court in California.

The states accused Meta of exploiting young users by creating a business model designed to maximize time they spend on the platform despite harm to their health.

In total more than 40 states are suing Meta, though some opted to file in local courts rather than join in the federal case.

Meta said it was "disappointed" by the suit. It said the states were singling it out unfairly instead of working with social media companies to develop universal standards for the whole industry.

Meanwhile, the European Union last week began seeking more details on the measures Meta and TikTok have taken to stop the spread of "illegal content and disinformation" in light of the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Meta insisted it was addressing the issues raised.

- The AI race -

Zuckerberg said in September, the tech giant is putting artificial intelligence into digital assistants and smart glasses as it seeks to gain lost ground in the AI race.

"I'm proud of the work our teams have done to advance AI and mixed reality with the launch of Quest 3, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses, and our AI studio," Zuckerberg said in the earnings release.

The second-generation Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses made in a partnership with EssilorLuxottica have a starting price of $299.

"Smart glasses are the ideal form factor for you to let AI assistants see what you're seeing and hear what you're hearing," Zuckerberg said at the conference.

Meta has taken a much more cautious approach than its rivals microsoft, OpenAI and Google to push out AI products, prioritizing small steps and making its in-house models available to developers and researchers.

Meta's chief technology officer has pushed back on assertions that the company has fallen behind rivals like ChatGPT in the explosive surge across the tech industry in generative AI.

"The majority of the world's population will have their first experience of generative artificial intelligence with us," Andrew "Boz" Bosworth told AFP in a recent interview.

Meta unveiled AI-infused chatbots with personalities at the gathering, along with tools for creating images or written content using spoken prompts.
China and Russia vetoed a U.S. resolution at the U.N. Security Council that would have condemned Hamas, called for the release of hostages in Gaza and allowed for humanitarian pauses in the raging Israel-Palestine conflict to aid civilians

UNITED NATIONS, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) China and Russia vetoed a U.S. resolution at the U.N. Security Council that would have condemned Hamas, called for the release of hostages in Gaza and allowed for humanitarian pauses in the raging Israel-Palestine conflict to aid civilians.

Ten members voted for the U.S. text in the 15-member Council, 3 against (China, Russia and the United Arab Emirates), with Brazil and Mozambique abstaining.

A negative vote from any one of the five permanent members of the Council stops action on any measure put before it. The permanent members are :China, France, Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

"The (US) draft does not reflect the world's strongest calls for a ceasefire, an end to the fighting, and it does not help resolve the issue," China's U.N. Ambassador Zhang Jun told the council after the vote.

"At this moment, ceasefire is not just a diplomatic term. It means the life and death of many civilians," the Chinese envoy said.

Russias U.N. ambassador, Vassily Nebenzia, also said the U.S. measure did not call for a cease-fire in the raging conflict nor bar Israel from its ground operations in Gaza.

The bloodshed is ongoing, the number of civilian causalities in now in the thousands [and] millions are displaced, he said, urging a hard think about the shocking figures.

He recalled the earlier Russian proposal, a depoliticized resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire, which unfortunately was not supported by most members of the Council.

"We did listen to all of you," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield told the Council after the double veto, which she described as disappointing. "Though todays vote was a setback, we must not be deterred."

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has all along called for a humanitarian ceasefire, a call Israel and its closest ally, the U.S., do not support, as the Tel Aviv regime pushes ahead to achieve its objective to completely destroy Hamas.

UK Ambassador Barbara Woodward said through the US proposal, the Council could have condemned Hamas attacks.

At the same time, she said, Russias draft failed to recognize Israels right to self-defence.

The UAE Ambassador, Lana Zaki Nusseibeh, said The stakes are too high and the Council must step up.

We know what the most pressing humanitarian needs are, she said, adding that these include a humanitarian ceasefire, release of all hostages, humanitarian access, fuel, water, and adherence to international humanitarian law.

Israels Ambassador Gilad Erdin argued that his country continues to be attacked, from north and south, and asked Council members how they would feel if faced with this reality.

You would feel there is a blatant double standard, he claimed, and that the Council isnt taking even the most basic steps anyone with a slight moral compass should take. This is precisely how the State of Israel feels right now.

In a Security Council debate on Tuesday, Pakistan's UN Ambassador Munir Akram condemned the Israeli aggression against Gaza, and backed the call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, warning that further massive civilian casualties in the Palestinian enclave could trigger a "wider and more dangerous" conflict.

Both Wednesday's drafts condemned the terror attacks by Hamas on Israeli civilians of 7 October and urged action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, where fuel is due to run out for hospitals and other crucial services, in a matter of hours, according to UN agencies on the ground.

Key differences in the text included a specific mention in the US-backed proposal of States inherent right to self defence, and a call in the Russian-led one for the immediate cancellation by Israeli forces of the evacuation order for civilians to head into southern Gaza.

In the wake of the Security Council deadlock, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly will vote on Friday on a draft resolution put forward by Arab states that calls for a ceasefire. No country holds a veto in the General Assembly, but its resolutions are non-binding, although they carry political weight.

APP/ift
Seoul, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) The narrow alleyway in South Korea's capital where nearly 160 people were crushed to death during Halloween festivities a year ago was designated a "Memorial Alley" on Thursday, victims' relatives said.

Tens of thousands of people -- mostly in their 20s and 30s -- had been out to enjoy the country's first post-pandemic holiday celebrations but the night turned deadly in Seoul's Itaewon district with no effective crowd control and bungled official responses to calls for help.

On Thursday, the site of the crush, now decorated with hundreds of paper notes filled with messages of grief and tribute for the victims, was officially designated the "October 29 Memorial Alley" -- although no senior government officials attended the event.

"This is a place to remember the people who became stars in the sky in an alleyway in the middle of Seoul while enjoying their daily lives on the night of October 29, 2022," said Lee Jung-min, a representative of bereaved families, at a ceremony unveiling a memorial street marker.

"It is also a place to pledge safety so that something like this does not happen again in the future," he added.

One of the Post-it notes at the site read: "It's been a year but I still sometimes think of you. I hope you can enjoy your youth in heaven, even though you could not enjoy it here."

Lee, who lost his then 28-year-old daughter to the crowd crush, said families of the victims were still looking for answers since the disaster.

Lee and around 100 other bereaved relatives and activists are pushing for the passage of a law mandating an independent counsel investigation into what went wrong and who was responsible for the deadly crush.

Despite a formal investigation and ongoing prosecutions of local officials, no one has yet been legally convicted.

"Only by raising awareness through a clear investigation of the truth and punishment of those truly responsible will everyone be able to live their daily lives safely," Lee said.

- 'Pain and anger' -

At a separate press conference Thursday, the families of the victims demanded answers about what exactly had happened and who was being held responsible for the deadly disaster a year ago, saying they continued to experience "frustration, pain and anger".

"It has been a year since our loved ones have passed and we still know nothing more than what we heard on October 29, 2022," said Nari Kim, who lost her brother on that night.

No further information has been offered to the victims' families since they were first informed of the disaster, said Yu Hyoung-woo, a father of one of the victims, adding: "The truth of that day is still unraveling."

No one has been held accountable, while the victims are constantly facing online attacks which try to paint them as "disorderly" people or even accusing them of being involved with drugs, Yu added.

"We are all aware that no matter what we do, we will not be able to bring back our loved ones, but we will need to fight until the people who are responsible for this disaster take responsibility," Kim said.

Back in Itaewon, George from Seattle, who was visiting Seoul with his wife, said he had read about the deadly crush a year ago as he watched family members weep after Thursday's event. He declined to give his full name.

"The designation of the alley is a wonderful gesture to remember the victims," he said, adding, "When your children are dead you're no longer alive."

Local authorities this year banned Halloween parties in some popular party districts, but not Itaewon, with many shops and bars opting not to run promotions or decorate for the holiday.
(@ChaudhryMAli88)

Los Angeles, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2023) Tens of thousands of books are banned from US prisons, a new report said Wednesday, including a primer on drawing, a book about tying knots and textbooks teaching inmates foreign languages.

Prison authorities across the country cite vague "security" fears or worries over sexual content for their bans, which prevent some of America's 1.2 million inmates from reading often innocuous-sounding texts sent by friends, campaigners, publishers or bookstores.

A study by PEN America, a literacy and free expression advocacy group, found widely differing and often inconsistently enforced policies resulted in a "staggering" number of books never making it past a prison mailroom.

Victims of the censorship included "The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo" a memoir by Amy Schumer, Sun Tzu's classic military manual "The Art of War," the century-old tract "The Use of Ropes and Tackle" and "Anyone Can Draw: Create Sensational Artwork in Easy Steps."

"Bans for purported sexual content were applied extremely broadly, from books on menopause to issues of Cosmopolitan and Rolling Stone, to art and medical books," the campaign group said in its report "Reading Between the Bars."

Only around half of America's 50 states keep a centralized list of banned books, with many others implementing ad-hoc systems often at a prison mailroom level, the group says.

Of those states that did know which books were banned, Florida was the most enthusiastic censor, refusing almost 23,000 titles to its prison population. Texas was second with around 10,000.

Reasons for the bans were varied, but the report found they were often very broad.

In Michigan, for example, "Spanish at a Glance" was not permitted because authorities believed it posed a "threat to the good order and security of the facility."

"(The book) may be used by prisoners to learn to communicate in a language that staff at the facility does not understand."

The pressure group communicated with inmates who said the rationale for banning the written word appeared wholly at odds with other aspects of prison life.

"Robert Blankenship, incarcerated in Virginia, notes that in Virginia prisons, the "Game of Thrones" novels are banned, but his prison airs the full, unedited HBO series on the facility televisions," the report said.

The group found the most censored title in the US is "Prison Ramen" -- a cookbook banned in 19 states offering recipes that can be made in a cell.
The University of Wyoming is a participant in two of 31 projects across the nation selected by the U.S. Economic Development Administration under the Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program.

The designated tech hubs are in regions across the country that show potential for rapid growth in key technology sectors. President Joe Biden announced the tech hub designations earlier this week.

One of the UW-involved projects is in collaboration with the University of Colorado and other public and private partners in the emerging field of quantum information science. The Elevate Quantum consortium seeks to transform quantum research into real-world applications in the marketplace. With a focus on developing a startup system and workforce, the proposal aims to establish the region as a leading hub for quantum technology.

The second project involving UW is the Intermountain-West Nuclear Energy Tech Hub in Idaho and Wyoming. Led by the Idaho Advanced Energy Consortium (INEC), the project will position Idaho and Wyoming as global leaders in small modular reactors and advance nuclear energy to build a cleaner energy future. The INEC Tech Hub will build on the regions existing nuclear manufacturing and service sectors to capture an increasing share of the global small modular reactor market by developing collaboration hubs, incubators and test beds for nuclear startups and creating nuclear industry workforce development programs.

At the University of Wyoming, we are honored to be part of two technology hubs designated by the Department of Commerce, says Parag Chitnis, vice president for research and economic development. Opportunity to collaborate with Colorado and Idaho in planning technology hubs for quantum computing and nuclear energy, respectively, will open new avenues for economic development in Wyoming.

The designations are part of the first phase of the Regional Technology and Innovation Hub Program, authorized by the CHIPS and Science Act, that will invest directly in high-potential U.S. regions and aim to transform them into globally competitive innovation centers. Designation is an endorsement of the regions strategy to supercharge its respective technological industry to create jobs and strengthen U.S. economic and national security. Designated tech hubs are now eligible to apply for the next phase of the program that will invest between $50 million-$75 million in each of five to 10 designated hubs.

Participation in these tech hub projects is an example of the universitys commitment to prepare UW to be ready for opportunities from the CHIPS and Science Act so that we can be an even stronger engine for innovation to help drive the states economy, UW President Ed Seidel says.

During the application process, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis, R-Wyo., and senators in Montana and South Dakota fought to remove geographic barriers that would prevent Wyoming, and most rural areas, from participating in the program. They argued for removal of a requirement that the Economic Development Administration restrict the geography of a tech hub to a single Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Wyoming continues to be at the forefront of U.S. innovation and is home to a diverse collection of cutting-edge technology, Lummis says. Geography shouldnt be a determining factor in picking winners and losers, especially as we continue to grapple with the task of bridging the digital divide. Expanding the qualifications for the tech hubs program ensures rural communities enjoy the same economic opportunities and growth as their urban counterparts while sustaining Americas status as the world leader in technological advancement.

The 31 tech hubs were selected from 198 applications from regional consortia that include industry, academia, state and local governments, economic development organizations, and labor and workforce partners. The tech hubs span regions across 32 states and Puerto Rico and represent a cross section of urban and rural regions.
Qabil Ashirov

President Emmanuel Macron's words about the Israel-Hamas War unveil the hypocritical stance of France and augur bloodshed that could happen in the Middle East and could affect not just Palestine but also Israel, as well.

Before starting to interpret Macron's words and intentions, it should be better to mention that Israel is a country that owns a capable army that can fight simultaneously on different fronts and has perfect security services that can conduct any anti-terror operations in all corners of the world. Macron, whose country lost almost all wars in the last 100 years, including WWII, and was beaten, expelled, or cornered in the Far East and Africa, flies to the Middle East and expresses his assistance to the Israeli State, which has won roughly all wars throughout its history, in a battle with Hamas, an armed group. So, Israel is a country that can give a lesson to France on military and anti-terror operations, let alone need assistance from it.

However, forgetting the history, Macron impudently stated that his country is ready to fight against Hamas and proposed that the international coalition fighting ISIS should widen its mandate and fight against Hamas in the Gaza Strip as well. He added that "the battle (against Hamas) has to be without mercy.

Reading Macron's statement, I have no other option but to think that either he flatters or he wants to stain the reputation of Israel. Call it as you want, but the coalition that fought against ISIS is the same coalition that invaded Iraq and Afghanistan, dethroned Gaddafi in Libya, and destabilised Syria. The coalition sometimes gets bigger and sometimes shrinks, but the main countries remain the same. The coalition made a hash of all the operations it had conducted and lost its face.

In comparison, the Israeli Army stood 100 km away from Kairo and got control of all of the Sinai Peninsula in the Yum Kippur War; in 1982, Israel invaded Beirut; it bombarded Iraq; it kept Gazza under control for several years, and so on, but the results of these operations were not as disgusting as the results of operations conducted by the above-mentioned coalition.

For example, during the Iraqi War, roughly one million civilians died, and about half of the country turned into IDPs. As for Syrian destabilisation, the country, so to speak, was depopulated. Millions of people became refugees and sought shelter in different countries. In addition, Israel has never created prisons like Abu Gharib or Guantanamo. To top it all off, the economies of none of the countries that waged war with Israel collapsed, as did the economies of Libya, Syria, and Iraq. So to say, the economies of the countries where the coalition conducted operations were depleted. Terror organisations and illegal armed groups mushroomed in all places where the coalition, which Macron praised, conducted operations.

Keeping the bloody history of the coalition in mind, I hope Macron flattered Israel. Otherwise, it means that the West will stir up the region once again, which does not promise a bright future for Israel. In short, the coalition will goof up again and leave the region. Afterward, Israel will need to clean up behind them.

While speaking about the goofed-up policy of the West, especially France, we should not overlook the hypocrisy of Macron as well. According to the international media outlet, about 30 French citizens died or were injured, and several were taken as hostages during the attack by Hamas. Thereupon, he calls Hamas a terror organisation and exclaims that they will fight with Hamas relentlessly. However, the same Macron impudently accuses Azerbaijan of conducting anti-terror measures in Garabagh. According to France, Hamas is a terror organisation, but separatists in Garabagh who brutally killed over 15,000 civilians, expelled 750,000 civilians from their hometowns, and looted and planted landmines in Azerbaijani territories are 'democratic people' or even saints.

For 30 fallen French citizens, Macron calls Hamas a terror organisation but requires us to forgive and forget over 30,000 fallen lives, half of them civilians, in Garabagh. A few French citizens were taken hostages, and France vows to uproot Hamas, but the same country requires us not to investigate the fate of 4,000 Azerbaijanis who went missing by virtue of Armenians.

Given the above-mentioned, by what right does France ask for or require anything from us?
TOKYO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Japanese government on Thursday approved the resignation of parliamentary vice-minister of education and culture Taro Yamada over a scandal.

Yamada, a lawmaker belonging to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), submitted his resignation to the education minister on Wednesday following a media report about his extramarital affair with a woman, a further blow to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's Cabinet as it struggles with low support ratings.

"My actions lacked self-awareness. I want to avoid obstructing parliamentary deliberations," Yamada told reporters, while denying he would step down as a lawmaker.

Opposition parties are set to grill Kishida over the scandal during the ongoing parliamentary session, with his Cabinet's approval ratings already at the lowest levels since its launch in October 2021, Kyodo News reported.

The government appointed female LDP upper house member Akiko Honda to the vice-ministerial post at a Cabinet meeting on the day. 
Senate panel OKs Lew to be ambassador to Israel, and a final confirmation vote could come next week

The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved Jacob Lew to be ambassador to Israel, moving quickly to get him in place during Israel's war with Hamas
Latest developments:

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel is preparing for a ground invasion of Gaza.

About 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, mostly civilians in the initial Hamas attack on Oct. 7.

The Gaza-based Ministry of Health  an agency in the Hamas-controlled government  says the death toll in Gaza has reached at least 7,000 people, the majority women and children, a number that some U.S. and Israeli officials question.

Israels military said late Thursday it again carried out a ground operation in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli forces have been conducting airstrikes targeting Hamas militants for nearly three weeks.

The Israel Defense Forces said the raid was brief as its tanks and infantry engaged Hamas fighters and struck anti-tank weapons before returning to Israeli territory.

The IDF operation  the second of its kind in as many days  was its latest incursion as it makes preparations for a promised full-scale ground invasion.

Israeli officials have pledged to ensure Hamas can no longer carry out attacks that threaten Israel following its October 7 massacre of about 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

The death toll in Gaza has reached at least 7,000 people, the majority women and children, according to Gazas Ministry of Health.

European Union leaders on Thursday called for pauses in Israeli bombing and Hamas rocket attacks to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

At a summit in Brussels, the leaders of the EUs 27 countries expressed the "gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza."

The European leaders called for "continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs."

The Israeli military has called up 300,000 reservists and stationed troops near the Gaza border.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised statement Wednesday, said Israel was "preparing for a ground invasion. I will not elaborate on when, how or how many."

Benny Gantz, a retired general and member of Netanyahus war Cabinet, said any ground offensive would be only "one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years."

"The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force," he said.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Israel has no interest in expanding the war front beyond Gaza, although it is prepared to fight Iranian-backed Hezbollah fighters based in Lebanon.

"We are waging war on the southern front against Hamas, prepared for any development in the north. Hezbollah is suffering many losses, Gallant told reporters.

One U.S. lawmaker, Senator Ben Cardin of Maryland, who was part of a congressional delegation that recently visited Israel, said it was up to Israeli leaders to decide when to launch any ground invasion into Gaza.

"We have not called for a delay, Cardin told VOA. I think every day, we think it's going to be that day or night or the next day. So, Israel is going to do when they want to do it. It is their judgment."

It was clear to all of us that Hamas is evil, Cardin said. That they are comparable to ISIS, that their objective is to prevent a Jewish state from existing in the Middle East. They believe it's right to execute Jews that pose no threat to them and have taken a page out of the Nazi book. And I think we all agreed that they have to be taken down  that there is no future for the Palestinians with Hamas in Gaza."

Meanwhile, the United Nations humanitarian aid agency said that from Saturday through Tuesday, 62 trucks with water, food and medical supplies traveled through the Rafah crossing at the Egyptian border into Gaza. But that total was far short of the daily average of 500 trucks allowed into Gaza before the hostilities.

U.N. World Food Program Executive Director Cindy McCain told Reuters on Thursday that unduly strict checks on trucks at the Rafah crossing had slowed the flow of aid to a dribble.

"Weve gotten a few  a dribble, just a dribble  of trucks in," McCain said. "We need to get a large amount in. We need safe, unfettered access into Gaza so that we can feed and make sure that people dont starve to death, because thats whats happening."

Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo, meanwhile, warned Israel on Thursday against starving Gaza.

Israel has a right to take action and to prevent future attacks. But that is never an excuse for blocking a whole region, for blocking humanitarian aid. It cannot be an excuse to starve a population, he said at the EU summit.

Despite limited food deliveries, Israeli authorities have continued to ban fuel transports into Gaza for fear Hamas militants will take it for their own use. UNRWA, the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East, said it has almost exhausted its fuel reserves and begun to significantly reduce its operations.

About 1.4 million people in Gaza are internally displaced, with some 629,000 staying in 150 UNRWA-designated emergency shelters. Officials are worried about overcrowding, with the average number of displaced people per shelter now 2.7 times their designated capacity.

Congressional correspondent Katherine Gypson contributed to this report. Some information for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters.
Despite bleak outlooks on their emotional and financial well-being, Ukrainians still remain optimistic about their future, according to a Gallup poll released Thursday.

The pressures of war have been weighing heavily on Ukrainian citizens since Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. Many say they have been unable to afford necessities such as food and shelter, and many others report experiencing negative feelings, worry chief among them.

Living conditions in Ukraine have been challenging, with only about 38% of Ukrainians surveyed saying they are satisfied with their standard of living, and around 63% saying that living standards are getting worse.

Nearly 53% of the population surveyed said there were times in the last 12 months when they were unable to afford food for themselves or their families. About 48% of those polled said they were unable to afford shelter.

The hardships were felt most by Ukrainians who have not had more than a secondary education. This group had 20% more respondents who were unable to afford food, and 12% more who were unable to afford housing, compared to those with a higher education.

Emotional issues also remain at high levels, despite having stabilized since the end of last year.

The most frequently experienced negative emotion was worry, which was felt by more than half (53%) of respondents. Other common negative emotions were sadness (39%), stress (32%), and anger (22%).

Some of those surveyed did report positive emotions, with nearly half (48%) saying they either smiled or laughed the previous day, and 54% saying they felt enjoyment.

When asked how they would rate their lives on a scale from one to 10, with 10 being the best possible life, the average response was 4.7.

Despite this, most Ukrainians look forward to a better future. When asked to rate their expectations for their lives five years from now, the response increased to 7.7.

That optimism underscores the results of a previous Gallup poll, which found that most residents are committed to continuing the war effort until Russia is driven from Ukrainian territory.
Transcript:

The Inside Story: Israel at War

Episode 115  October 26, 2023

Show Open:

This week on the inside story:

Bloodshed in Gaza and mass displacements on both sides of the border as Israel continues striking Hamas targets.

Aid trickles through Egypt into Gaza ... but it's not enough, and Egypt says no to refugees.

Whats the latest in the conflict? And what is the world saying about it?

Plus, Jews and Muslims on high alert for hate crimes as the conflict boils outside the region.

Now... on The Inside Story... Israel at War.

The Inside Story:

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA, VOA White House Bureau Chief:

Welcome to the Inside Story, Im Patsy Widakuswara at the White House. Israels military actions against Hamas continue to intensify, as does the humanitarian crisis inside Gaza. The Biden administration continues to support Israelis right to defend itself as it tries to contain the conflict from spreading across the region.

As the Israeli military continues to pound Hamas targets in Gaza, Palestinians in the West Bank argue that the Palestinian Authority, particularly President Mahmoud Abbas, should adopt a more confrontational approach towards Israel. They point out that decades of negotiations have yielded no significant progress. We begin with Yan Boechat in Ramallah in the West Bank.

YAN BOECHAT, Reporting for VOA:

The streets of the West Bank are filled with anger and frustration. After more than two weeks of war between Israel and Hamas, many Palestinians say the brutality of the conflict is growing closer, and they are criticizing Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, also known as Abu Mazen.

Othman Hassan, Deputy Mayor of Qusra:

Abu Mazen is incapable of doing anything. He does not have the ability to protect us, to defend us. He is helpless. Our only hope is for other countries to impact Israel.

YAN BOECHAT:

Otham Hassan is the deputy mayor of Qusra, a small Palestinian village in the West Bank. On October 11th, it was attacked by Jewish settlers who live in the area. Four people were killed, according to the Palestinian health ministry. Since the Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7, around 100 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank by Israeli forces and Jewish settlers, according to various reports.

As violence escalates, more people here are calling for a confrontational approach instead of the negotiations favored by the Palestinian Authority in recent decades. For many, Abbas and the Palestinian Authority have not benefited Palestinians by taking a less assertive stance toward Israel.

Sabri Saidam, Fatah Central Committee Deputy Secretary-General:

With more pressure over the Palestinians, any group that is aiming to confront Israel becomes popular. Im not worried about the popularity of this party or our party. Basically, Im worried about the world not seeing the importance of ending the conflict.

YAN BOECHAT:

Saidam recognizes that pressure is mounting on the Palestinian Authority with the war in Gaza and the escalation of violence in the West Bank. Last week, hundreds of people took to the streets of Ramallah in protest of Abbas and the Palestinian Authority. Internal security clashed with the protesters.

Sabri Saidam, Fatah Central Committee Deputy Secretary-General:

I think are charged with emotions, and anybody in power is expected by the people to do more and we are certainly doing everything we could, in every aspect the term, because we want to see the end of hostilities.

YAN BOECHAT:

But at least one person on the streets of West Bank doesn't seem convinced.

Feras Hasan, Teacher:

First of all, I think the Palestinian Authority and the politicians that they have should start thinking about something else, because 30 years of negotiation has brought nothing to us.

YAN BOECHAT:

As the division in the West Bank grows, only one thing seems to unite the Palestinians here: the sense that the worst is yet to come.

Yan Boechat, VOA News, Ramallah, West Bank.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

While the humanitarian situation in Gaza is becoming increasingly dire, on the Israeli side of the border, those forced to evacuate are also looking for shelter. Our Correspondent in Jerusalem Linda Gradstein has the story.

LINDA GRADSTEIN, VOA Correspondent:

A tent city goes up on the grounds of the Kfar Maccabiah Convention Center in a Tel Aviv suburb for the latest group of Israeli evacuees, now fleeing towns near the Lebanese border and the threat of Hezbollah rocket attacks and incursions.

Until now, many of the 200,000 Israeli evacuees fleeing attacks from Hamas in the south and Hezbollah in the north have been housed in hotels throughout Israel.

Amir Gissin, Maccabi World Union CEO:

Here is an attempt to have a shelter for 200 evacuees from the north of Israel. We erect for them 30 tents, glamping style, that will enable them to really enjoy themselves while theyre here as much as they can.

LINDA GRADSTEIN:

Gissin says the tents can withstand severe weather conditions if the war continues into the winter. He says the challenge is keeping the tent dwellers safe, so they have limited the number to 200 because that is the capacity of the nearby bomb shelter that would protect them against rockets from Gaza.

Like Kfar Maccabiah, the resort city of Eilat is already over 100 percent capacity with evacuees from near Gaza, and workers are putting up a tent complex for 400 new evacuees coming from the north.

Residents of Kibbutz Kerem Shalom, just 30 meters from the Gaza border, have been housed in a hotel in Eilat, in better times a popular vacation spot on the Red Sea. It's a small comfort in the midst of a terrifying ordeal.





Bruria Carni Hadas, Displaced Kibbutz Kerem Shalom Resident:

Many people are so terrified and so traumatized now that they dont even dare (go) out of the hotel. So, living in a tent seems so not protected and not giving the security feeling we need. We need to re-find our trust in people and to rebuild our strength and to feel secure.

LINDA GRADSTEIN:



In Gaza, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have fled their homes in the north of the enclave amid heavy bombardment by Israeli warplanes and an Israeli warning to move to the southern Gaza Strip ahead of an expected ground invasion.

Many have been living in tents erected by the U.N. for more than two weeks.



Sojood Najm, Displaced Gaza Resident:

I've been in this tent for nine days, and I can't even bathe my children. I don't have water. I don't have a space to bathe them. I can't find clean clothes. I don't have clean floors to seat them on. I worry for my children. They cough and their noses run at night. My oldest son has asthma.

LINDA GRADSTEIN:

The war between Israel and Hamas shows no sign of ending soon, which means that thousands of people on both sides of the conflict have something in common: They are looking at spending a cold winter in tents.

Linda Gradstein, Voa News, Jerusalem.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Amid an impending Israeli ground invasion on Gaza, President Joe Biden is facing the challenges of balancing unwavering support for Americas closest ally in the Middle East with international demands for a more robust protections for civilians in Gaza and Israeli restraint to avoid a broader war in the Middle East.

As airstrikes in Gaza continue, President Joe Biden has been urging Israel to consider the consequences of what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls its mighty vengeance on Hamas.

Unidentified Reporter:

Mr. President, are you encouraging the Israelis to delay invasion?

President Joe Biden:

I'm talking to the Israelis.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Its part of Bidens push to buy more time to secure delivery of much-needed aid for civilians, the extraction of several hundred Palestinian Americans trapped in Gaza, and hostage negotiations.

Four hostages, including two Americans, have been released from among the more than 200 people that Israeli officials say were abducted by Hamas during its coordinated attacks on Israeli soil on October 7 that killed at least 1400 people.

Antonio Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General:

The attacks by Hamas did not happen in a vacuum. The Palestinian people have been subjected to 56 years of suffocating occupation.





PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Those remarks by United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday prompted criticism from

Gilad Erdan, Israeli ambassador to the U.N.

Gilad Erdan, Israeli Ambassador to the UN:

The U.N. is failing, and you, Mr. Secretary-General, have lost all morality and impartiality.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, also at the Security Council on Tuesday, warned Tehran against widening the war as Israel braces for more attacks from Iran-backed groups, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon, that are likely to intensify once Israel begins its ground invasion.

Blinken delivered a forceful defense of Israel's military actions but issued the administrations strongest urging to Israel so far to avoid harm to civilians.

Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State:

It means food, water, medicine and other essential humanitarian assistance must be able to flow into Gaza and to the people who need them.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

The White House clarifies that the humanitarian pause that Blinken called for is not the same as a cease-fire, which National Security Council spokesman John Kirby says will only benefit Hamas right now.

John Kirby, National Security Council Spokesman:

This is war. It is combat. It is bloody. It is ugly. And it's going to be messy, and innocent civilians are going to be hurt going forward.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Since October 7, Israeli airstrikes have killed more than 5,000 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health, and displaced more than a million people.

Egypt has so far refused to open its border to Palestinians fleeing Israels bombardment of the Gaza Strip, following the October 7 attack by Hamas militants on civilians and soldiers in southern Israel. Cairo is wary of allowing thousands of refugees to cross the frontier. Correspondent Henry Ridgwell explains.

HENRY RIDGWELL, Reporting for VOA:

Egypt, for now, is not allowing Palestinians to cross the border to escape Gaza into the relative safety of Egypts Sinai Peninsula.

Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, President of Egypt:

Transferring Palestinian citizens from the [Gaza] Strip to Sinai very simply means that we are transferring the idea of resistance, the idea of fighting from the Gaza Strip to Sinai, and thus Sinai becomes a base for launching operations against Israel.

HENRY RIDGWELL:

Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians fled their lands in past conflicts with Israel. Many have never been allowed to return. Egypt  and much of the Arab world  fears the consequences of Palestinians once again fleeing Gaza, says analyst Chris Doyle of the Council for Arab-British Understanding.

Chris Doyle, Council for Arab-British Understanding:

It does not want to land up hosting hundreds of thousands of Palestinian civilians in the Sinai, in a tented city  with really quite a clear agenda, certainly on the Israeli right, that that becomes the permanent solution. Palestinians and Egyptians are aware of this, are fearful that what happened to them in 1948 and 1967, when they fled in fear or were kicked out, will happen to them again. They're talking about a second Nakba, a catastrophe.

HENRY RIDGWELL:

As in many cities across the Arab world, Egyptians have taken to the streets to denounce Israels bombardment of Gaza.

Chris Doyle, Council for Arab-British Understanding:

We're seeing a lot of anger right now in Egypt about what's going on. So, they'll be wary of being seen to be somehow supporting Israeli actions at this moment, even though in private they are very critical of Hamas as well.

HENRY RIDGWELL:

Egypts president seized power in a 2013 military coup  ousting the democratically elected Muslim Brotherhood government.

Yossi Mekelberg, Chatham House:

Let's not forget that that Hamas is an offshoot of the Muslim Brotherhood. The more we see death among civilians, Palestinian civilians, the more people will go probably to the street, and it can really inflame the political situation in Egypt. And that's why it's actually in the Egyptian interest to mediate a cease-fire and mediate quickly.

HENRY RIDGWELL:

While Egypt has dialogue with Hamas, it is also able to talk to Israel.

Yossi Mekelberg, Chatham House:

Strategically, there is great understanding between Israel and Egypt over the last ten to eleven years. And the other side  for Israel  he is a convenient neighbor. Because what is the alternative? The Muslim Brotherhood? This is definitely not something that Israel would like.

HENRY RIDGWELL

Henry Ridgwell, VOA News, London.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

With the death toll now reaching into the thousands and disturbing images of the conflict being widely circulated on social media, a sense of mutual hatred is emerging among certain individuals as the conflict continues to escalate. We go back to Yan Boechat in Jerusalem, for the perspectives of both sides in Israel and the Palestinian territories.



YAN BOECHAT, Reporting for VOA:

The violence has been nonstop as Israelis warplanes relentlessly bomb Gaza, while Hamas continues to fire rockets into Israel.



In the West Bank, protests broke out after last Fridays prayers and confrontations between Israeli forces and Palestinians left several dead.



For the first time in almost 20 years, Israeli jets attacked a West Bank town. On the border with Lebanon, violence is also escalating, raising concerns on both sides that a new war between Israel and Hezbollah might be about to begin.

On social media, graphic scenes of violence are everywhere, available to everyone. The unfiltered and sometimes false information fuels mutual hatred that is becoming more intense and ingrained in people on both sides of this conflict.

Nadoosh Mohamed, Ramallah Resident:

These children you see, these quadruplets, their parents waited 16 years to have them, now they are killed. What did these kids do to Israel?

YAN BOECHAT:

Nadoosh Mohamad lives far from Gaza, in a comfortable house in Ramallah. She says she would prefer to be dead than watch what is coming to her phone every day. After seeing it, she says, its impossible to even think about living in peace with an Israeli.

Nadoosh Mohamed, Caretaker:

We are different from them. We saw the treatment of Hamas towards children and the treatment of Israel. What they said about the burning of children is not true. Hamas treats its hostages very well.

YAN BOECHAT:

She refers to video she saw released by the militant group Hamas on Telegram claiming it is taking good care of Israeli children it is holding hostage. The content of the video is unverified.

For several days, Ramallahs streets have been full of people protesting the Israeli attacks on Gaza.

In Israeli communities close to the Gaza border, life has all but stopped. In Ashkelon, the biggest city near Gaza, few go out into the streets. The sirens dont go off as often as they used to at the beginning of the war, but rockets keep coming from Gaza - aimed at them.

In this once bustling marina, only a few people came for a stroll on a sunny afternoon.

After several days at home, Yana decided to come out for a walk with her boyfriend, Nikolay. Their realities are quite different from those of Nadoosh, but they strangely seem connected by the hatred they express.

Yana Ikonnikov, Ashkelon Resident:

They showed videos of the soldiers, who are kidnapped, of children, who were pulled from vehicles, they raped girls in the squares in Gaza. I don't think there is a difference between them. They are the same.

YAN BOECHAT:

Yana, like Nadoosh, doesnt think it will ever be possible for Israelis and Palestinians to coexist after this.

Yana Ikonnikov, Ashkelon Resident:

You cannot live with them in peace, in the end they will kill us. Because they are taught in school that we are their enemies.



YAN BOECHAT:

Yana refers to videos she has seen on social media that claim to show Palestinian schools teaching children to view Israelis as their enemies. That content is also unverified.

Israelis and Palestinians have both grown up in a culture of mutual hatred and distrust.

Many on both sides of this tragedy see death and destruction  more than ever  as the only solution.

Yan Boechat, Voa News, Jerusalem.



PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

As Israeli airstrikes continue, so has a barrage of disinformation. The conflict is being fought not only on the ground but also on the internet. Correspondent Robin Guess brings us the details.

ROBIN GUESS, VOA Correspondent:

As Israel escalates its military response to Hamas, it is cracking down against media that it says support the militant group.

Included in new emergency regulations, a plan to shutter the Al Jazeera local bureau over claims of Hamas propaganda.

Critics argue moves to silence journalists or an entire news organization amount to censorship.

Quinn McKew is the executive director of the press freedom organization Article 19.

Quinn McKew, Article 19:

Shutting down access to information and a legitimate news agency like Al Jazeera should never be taken lightly, and it is a worrying step of losing a credible news source.

ROBIN GUESS:

The Israel-Hamas conflict is rife with disinformation and misinformation weaponized for war. The false narratives are prominent online, especially through social media.

Media watchdogs say that the role of news organizations to debunk disinformation is critical and that no voice should be silenced.

The Committee to Protect Journalists and other media advocates urge Israel not to take such a drastic step.

U.S. public broadcaster National Public Radio, or NPR, has a team of eight journalists on the ground covering the war. It's CEO John Lansing  who used to head VOA parent, the U.S. Agency for Global Media says the primary obligation of journalists is the truth.

John Lansing, NPR CEO:

Just vigilance. Understanding that all you have is credibility, whether its VOA, NPR or the New York Times. Anything that threatens the credibility of what people are reading or seeing is a failure, and we always have to put our audiences first.

ROBIN GUESS:

Israels Communications Ministry did not respond to VOAs email requesting comment.

But directives from its Communications and Defense Ministries accuse Al Jazeera of pro-Hamas bias and spreading propaganda.

Israel says it considers Al Jazeeras reporting a threat to its national security, its soldiers and its civilians.

Al Jazeera did not respond to VOAs email request for comment.



But its published code of ethics states in part that its journalists must adhere to values of fairness and independence.

At least some media watchdogs say Al Jazeera is not an outlier news organization spreading disinformation.

Quinn McKew, Article 19:

They are able to provide a very interesting and balanced and unique perspective. Shutting that agency down and removing them would be a very chilling step for freedom of expression in the media and in the region that would open the floodgates to other kinds of restrictions and repressions.

ROBIN GUESS:

As the conflict escalates, media analysts watch closely for moves to restrict news coverage on either side of the war.

Robin Guess, VOA News:

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Muslim and Jewish communities in the U.S. are on alert, fearing a rise in harassment and hostilities related to the Israel-Hamas War. VOAs Veronica Balderas Iglesias has the perspectives of those affected and those calling for measures to defuse the mounting tensions.

VERONICA BALDERAS IGLESIAS, Reporting for VOA:

For the first time in two decades the Council on American Islamic Relations or CAIR was forced to move its annual banquet to an undisclosed location, due to threats of violence related to its stance on the Israel-Hamas war.

Edward Ahmed Mitchell, Council on American Islamic Relations:

The hotel informed us they were receiving significant bomb threats to plant bombs in the parking garage, to storm the building. These threats were coming from anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian extremists who are angry about our organizations support for Palestinian human rights.

VERONICA BALDERAS IGLESIAS:

Some U.S. Synagogues have also had to interrupt online and hybrid services due to bomb threats related to the war in the Middle East, according to the American Jewish Committee.

The advocacy organization had ties to Samantha Woll, President of the board of the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue, who was found stabbed to death at her home in Detroit on October 21.

Police have not found evidence that it was a hate crime, but the investigation is continuing and Jewish leaders are taking extra precautions.

Melanie Maron Pell, American Jewish Committee:

Were seeing individuals really trying to take efforts to ensure their personal information is not available. Its a moment where we have to be really really really aware and observant.

VERONICA BALDERAS IGLESIAS:

Fear is also engulfing some environments where Muslim students receive their education, the national nonprofit Islamic Schools League of America told VOA.

Shaza Khan, Islamic Schools League of America:

On Friday there was one full time Islamic school in the Chicago land area that received credible and detailed threats against their school community and they decided to move to remote learning. School teachers in older grades are allowing students to share how they are feeling, creating safe spaces for them.

VERONICA BALDERAS IGLESIAS:

Jewish Daytime schools are actively seeking more funding to strengthen their own security measures.

Dan Mitzner, Teach Coalition:

Shatterproof glass and bollards and all other safety measures that institutions can put into place. But we also call on religious leadership and political leadership across the world to condemn antisemitism, to condemn islamophobia, to condemn hate motivated violence and speech and to call it out when they see it, not to encourage it.

VERONICA BALDERAS IGLESIAS:

Veronica Balderas Iglesias, VOA News, Washington.

PATSY WIDAKUSWARA:

Thanks for joining us on this episode of The Inside Story highlighting our continuing coverage of the War in Gaza.

Catch up on past episodes on our free streaming service, VOA Plus and stay up to date with all the latest news at voanews.com.

Follow me on social media at pwidakuswara.

See you next week with another episode of The Inside Story.

###
TOKYO, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Three foreign nationals have been arrested on suspicion of smuggling around 113 kilograms of stimulant drugs with a street value of about 7 billion yen (47 million U.S. dollars) from Mexico, police in central Japan said Thursday.

Police in Toyama prefecture believe the three suspects, a Ukrainian and two Russian men, smuggled the drugs through Narita airport near Tokyo in August by hiding them in air cargo, with the substances divided into clear plastic bags and carried in a large metal container.

The stimulants arrived at a company in Toyama in September when local police arrested the three, and a 22-year-old male Russian national initially on suspicion of narcotics possession, they said.

Investigators suspect that an international drug smuggling ring was involved in this case. 
Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said this week that negotiations on the release of the hostages captured by Hamas were progressing. With most of the more than 200 hostages still captive or unaccounted for, and Gaza quickly running out of food, water and electricity, international pressure is building on the Persian Gulf state to help secure their release.

Qatar's working relationship with Hamas and its October 7 statement holding Israel fully responsible for the escalation of violence have prompted public furor in the United States, yet analysts see the emirate as an important player in efforts to mediate the conflict.

Qatar's leaders have been key to securing the release of Israeli hostages. Qatari officials helped broker a deal for Monday's release of two Israeli women held by Hamas  days after it negotiated the release of mother-daughter pair Judith and Natalie Raanan.

Qatar has long enjoyed good relations with the U.S. The gas-rich emirate hosts a large U.S. military presence, one of the biggest in the region, at Al Udeid Air Base. The base was built by the Qataris in 1996 and received U.S. acknowledgement in 2002 when then-Vice President Dick Cheney visited.

U.S. relations with the country date to 1972 and center on issues of regional security, energy and education. Qatar cooperates with the U.S. military in conducting counterterrorism and countering violent extremism, running operations as far away as the Horn of Africa.

Following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, Qatar's role in coordinating the safe exit of tens of thousands of people  including U.S. citizens and contractors  was invaluable to the American government.

Nearly 40% of all evacuees were taken out via Qatar. In the years leading up to the Taliban takeover, Qatar played a pivotal role in hosting meetings between U.S. officials and members of the Taliban in the capital, Doha, chaired by U.S. special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad. While the talks ultimately failed, they demonstrated the reliance the U.S. places on Qatar as a key intermediary.

For these and other efforts, U.S. President Joe Biden designated Qatar a major non-NATO ally in March 2022.

"I am making this designation in recognition of Qatar's many years of contributions to U.S.-led efforts in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility and in recognition of our own national interest in deepening bilateral defense and security cooperation with the state of Qatar," the president wrote in a letter to Congress.

More recently, Qatar facilitated the release of five American prisoners held in Iran, as well as the release of Ukrainian children held by Russia.

An established record

Qatar began to carve out its role as a credible mediator years ago.

In 2008, when Hezbollah took over key infrastructure installations in Lebanon, including the airport and major seaports, it was Qatar that brought the Shiite group and its Western-backed opponents to the negotiating table. The talks resulted in the Doha Agreement, which prevented the crisis from escalating and plunging Lebanon into another civil war.

Qatar's working relationships with traditional U.S. adversaries such as Iran and Russia  or nonstate groups like Hamas and the Taliban  have made it an invaluable partner for the U.S. and other Western countries.

"Qatar has been a very close partner to the United States on a broad range of issues that are crucial to both of our countries and to this region  from working together on evacuating Americans, Afghans and others from Afghanistan, to cooperating very closely in responding to humanitarian emergencies, like the devastating earthquakes in Turkiye and in Syria," U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters at a press conference in Doha on October 13.

Analysts say the ability of Qatar to maintain good relations with both nonstate armed groups and state actors such as Russia and Iran, while still being a strategic partner to the United States, will continue to enhance its importance on the global stage.

"Qatar is framing this achievement  and associated praise from the U.S.  as proof that it is correct in its strategy of keeping communication lines open with multiple opposing actors. Its role in the current conflict is giving its geopolitical ambitions a boost," Lina Khatib, director of the SOAS Middle East Institute at SOAS University of London, wrote in an article this week for Barron's. She is also an associate fellow at Chatham House.

Others say connections with groups like Hamas will bring greater scrutiny to Qatar, the world's third-largest natural gas exporter and home to just 300,000 citizens.

"It's a double-edged sword, and the Qataris need to have the right message, because although the Americans have expressed gratitude and they're earning brownie points from the U.S., their image is getting bruised," Mehran Kamrava, professor of government at Georgetown University Qatar, said in an interview with the Financial Times.
Leaders from countries with the largest tropical forest basins are meeting in the Republic of Congo on Thursday to work together to protect the forests from deforestation and destruction.

Delegates from Brazil, Indonesia, Republic of Congo and dozens of other countries at the Three Basins Summit in Brazzaville are hoping to form a coalition of leaders from the basins of the Amazon, the Congo and Borneo-Mekong in Southeast Asia to discuss how to finance the protection of their wildlife-rich regions, which are also major sites for storing planet-warming carbon dioxide.

The countries in the three basins have 80% of the worlds tropical forests and two-thirds of the Earths biodiversity, according to the World Wildlife Fund. But logging, forest degradation, loss of native species and extreme weather events fueled by climate change have the forests under enormous pressure thats putting local economies and food security at risk.

Despite pledges by governments and businesses to stop forest loss, deforestation continues around the world: A total of 4.1 million hectares of tropical forest was lost to deforestation in 2022, according to a report released Monday by the Forest Declaration Assessment, a group of civil society and research organizations. The vast majority of deforestation in the world  96%  occurs in tropical regions, the report said.

Agriculture, including cattle ranching and smallholder farming, is the leading driver of forest loss across the tropics, said Fran Price, a global forest practice leader at WWF. Other causes include road expansion, fires and commercial logging, which also destroy and degrade the forests, she added. Swathes of the Amazon and Indonesian rainforest are regularly up in flames  often started deliberately by those clearing land or burning felled trees  that can sometimes spread uncontrollably.

Climate change and other factors have also led to drought and wildfires in forest regions. Just this week, public authorities in Brazil scrambled to deliver food and water across territories around the Amazon river where El Nino and warming are fueling a record drought.

The three basins have experienced different trends over the years. The Amazon, the worlds largest tropical forest basin, saw an 18% increase in forest loss from 2021 to 2022, much of that driven by Brazil  where deforestation has since reduced in the first six months of this year. Forest loss has decreased significantly in Indonesia and Malaysia in recent years and remained relatively consistent in the Congo, according to analysis by the World Resources Institute.

Over the years, countries have announced many initiatives and commitments to ending deforestation, including one at United Nations climate talks in Glasgow in 2021, but implementation has been slow. In August this year, a planned meeting between leaders of Brazil, Indonesia and Congo in Kinshasa to discuss the preservation of tropical forests failed to take place.

Forest experts say the three-day summit in Brazzaville is a critical opportunity to act on and finance plans to protect and restore vital forest ecosystems.

Price wants the summit to go beyond countries discussing as they have been and for governments to present concrete and actionable plans that show accountability and transparency.

It is imperative that all governments in the regions and outside of the regions use this platform to work together, she said. She also called on the private sector and civil society "to change the business-as-usual trajectory that were on.

Emmanuelle Berenger, sustainable forest management lead at the Rainforest Alliance, said the summit provides a vital chance to translate the multitude of commitments that have been made in the past around preserving and restoring the worlds forests into initiatives and policies that can genuinely make a difference.

The summit is an important step in bringing together countries to preserve their forests and improve the livelihoods of people who depend on them, said Mikaela Weisse, director of Global Forest Watch.

There is no keeping climate change to 1.5 (2.7 F) without protecting tropical forests, she said, referring to the global goal of capping warming to protect the world from harm caused by climate change.

With the right actions, she added, the summit could help countries build an inclusive coalition where Indigenous Peoples and local voices are valued, and learn from each other on the most effective strategies for ending deforestation.

The gathering is the second Three Basins Summit, building on the first meeting held 12 years ago, when governments and other parties in the basin regions agreed to work together to protect resources.
In an apparent shift of rhetoric, President Joe Biden on Wednesday delivered his most pointed expression yet of concern for Palestinian civilians affected by the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Biden said he continues to be alarmed about attacks by what he called extremist settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank, likening the assaults to pouring gasoline on fire.

He made the remarks at the beginning of his joint press conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was at the White House for a state visit.

This was a deal. The deal was made, and they're attacking Palestinians in places that they're entitled to be, Biden said, referring to the 1993 Oslo Accords. It has to stop, he implored. They have to be held accountable. It has to stop now.

According to the health ministry run by the Palestinian Authority, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank in retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers and in military raids since Hamas launched its incursion on Israeli soil on Oct. 7, an attack in which Israeli authorities said at least 1,400 people were massacred and 200 were taken hostage.

Biden did not mention the Israeli militarys role in the West Bank violence. Following Hamas attacks, Israels National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, a far-right settler with a history of anti-Arab incitement, distributed weapons to settlers, many of whom were already heavily armed.

Hamas, the militant group that controls the Gaza Strip, cited Israels decades-long occupation of the West Bank among its motives for attacking Israeli civilians and soldiers.

Israeli retaliatory airstrikes since October 7 have killed more than 5,000 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health, and have displaced more than a million people who have followed Israeli evacuation orders.

Biden expressed skepticism on the death toll, doubting that Palestinians are telling the truth.

A senior administration official clarified to VOA the president is skeptical of Hamas-supplied figures given the limited ability of outside parties to verify them and because of the ministrys history of inflating death tolls.

Robert McCaw, who leads the Government Affairs Department at the Council on American-Islamic Relations, questioned Bidens skepticism.

Would it make the president feel better if only 1,000 children were dead? he said to VOA.

Still, Bidens remarks were his most extensive and sympathetic toward Palestinians since the war broke out. He outlined a postwar vision in which Hamas  the organization that Washington designated in 1997 as a foreign terrorist group  is dismantled and the region is on a path toward a two-state solution.

He underscored the need for Israels Arab neighbors to come to diplomatic terms with Israel without brushing aside the Palestinian cause, and he suggested that progress toward regional integration for Israel was a motive for Hamas attack.

Shift in tone

Wednesdays remarks marked a shift in tone for Biden. Days after the militants attack, in a forceful and emotional speech denouncing Hamas as pure, unadulterated evil, Biden made no mention of Palestinian casualties despite hundreds already killed in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.

Fresh off his brief wartime visit to Tel Aviv, in an Oct. 20 speech requesting funding to support Israel and Ukraine, Biden said he was heartbroken by the tragic loss of Palestinian life.

In the same sentence, he backed Israels account that it was not responsible for the deadly hospital explosion in Gaza. U.S. officials say they have concluded Israel is not to blame for the explosion at the hospital.



As Israeli retaliatory airstrikes continue, with heavy tolls on civilians in Gaza and the threat of a wider war in the Middle East, some see a shift in Bidens handling of the crisis.

The presidents rhetoric at the beginning of the conflict was so decidedly one-sided that the administration didn't provide themselves with a way out when they wanted to pivot, said James Zogby, president of the Arab American Institute.

Is it a decisive enough shift to represent balance? Not yet, Zogby told VOA. The Israelis certainly still have a green light.

As casualties grow, Biden is under increasing pressure from groups denouncing his unwavering support of Israel.

American Muslims have been disturbed, shocked, disappointed, and distraught by Bidens policies, said Salam Al-Marayati, president of the Muslim Public Affairs Council.

Al-Marayati noted that while Bidens words have become more sympathetic, they are betrayed by his administrations actions.

Theyre ready for a full-scale invasion of the Middle East, not just Gaza, he told VOA. God knows where this will take us.

In response to a reporters question, Biden said he did not ask Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to delay the ground invasion that Israel is planning, to allow extraction of hostages including Americans out of Gaza.

What I have indicated to him is that if that's possible to get these folks out safely, that's what he should do, he said. Its their decision, but I did not demand it.

Americans side with Israel

Several polls taken after the Hamas attack show most Americans side with Israel in the conflict. The numbers reverse a long-term trend where Americans sympathies toward Palestinians have gradually increased over the past several years, although still less than toward Israelis. A 2013 Gallup poll indicated that 64% of Americans sympathized with Israelis and 12% with Palestinians. Earlier this year, the gap narrowed to 54% to 31%.

Even with domestic pressure from Arab and Muslim Americans as well as Progressive Democrats, a year away from U.S. presidential elections, the bigger factor in Bidens calculation is international condemnation, said Zogby.

Massive anti-Israeli and anti-American demonstrations have created tensions in the Arab world, risking greater instability and prospects of regional escalation that Washington and its allies are keen to avoid.

Washington is also keen to keep good relations with Global South countries, many of which side with the Palestinian cause, as the U.S. competes for world influence with China and Russia, said Richard Gowan, U.N. director of the International Crisis Group.

One way to let off a little steam in the crisis is to ensure humanitarian aid gets into Gaza, Gowan told VOA.

I think the U.S. wants to show that  both in the region and at the U.N.  it is trying to get assistance to the Palestinians, with the hopes that that will lower the rising temperature in the region.

That hope was dashed Wednesday at the U.N. when Russia and China vetoed a U.S.- sponsored Security Council resolution that called for a humanitarian pause in fighting, the protection of civilians and a stop to arming Hamas and other militants in the Gaza Strip. Days earlier the U.S. vetoed a draft from Brazil that would allow humanitarian aid but did not include Israels right to defend itself.

Misha Komadovsky contributed to this report.
In a city where damaged buildings are everywhere, a destroyed pizzeria stands out as a painful reminder of lives and livelihoods dashed in an instant.

A Russian ballistic missile struck the popular eatery in eastern Ukraine in June, killing 13 people including an award-winning Ukrainian writer and several teenagers. Seven of the victims were staff.

Today, fresh flowers and notes have been placed where the entrance once was. A T-shirt, part of the waitstaff's uniform, hangs near the makeshift memorial with the inscription "We will never forget."

"As an entrepreneur, of course, I regret the loss of property, but there's something that cannot be returned: human lives," said Dmytro Ihnatenko, the owner of RIA Pizza.

The bombed-out building in Kramatorsk underscores the massive risks for businesses in this front-line city in the Donetsk region. But that has not deterred many other business owners who have reopened their doors to customers in the past year.

The city council estimates there are 50 restaurants and 228 shops now open in Kramatorsk, three times the number open at the same period last year. Most are believed to be existing business that closed in the early days of the war and have reopened.

"We understand that this is a risk, and we are taking it because this is our life," said Olena Ziabina, chief administrator of the White Burger restaurant in Kramatorsk. "Wherever we are, we need to work. We work here. This is our conscious choice."

The White Burger chain operated mainly in Donetsk and Luhansk regions before the war. But after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it could reopen only in Kramatorsk. It launched two new restaurants in the capital, Kyiv, and Dnipro to keep the chain alive.

Kramatorsk's restaurant is the chain's top performer in profitability, even though prices are 20% lower than in the capital's restaurant.

After the attack on Ria Pizza, White Burger's operators didn't consider closing the Kramatorsk restaurant, Ziabina said. "I cried a lot," she said, recalling the day she heard about the attack.

Kramatorsk's economy has adapted to war. The city houses the Ukrainian army's regional headquarters, and many cafes and restaurants are frequented mainly by soldiers as well as journalists and aid workers.

Ukrainian women often travel there to reunite for a few days with husbands and boyfriends.

Soldiers joke that Kramatorsk is their Las Vegas, providing all the "luxuries" they need like good food or coffee. But restaurants offer only non-alcoholic beer due to the city's proximity to the battlefield.

The city streets are mostly empty except for military cars. The residents who stayed avoid big gatherings and crowded places.

Still, it is a far cry from the war's early days, when Kramatorsk's shops, restaurants and cafes were shuttered. Tens of thousands of people were left without jobs, and factories were closed.

"Probably, thanks to the military, we can still come back to this city," said Oleksandr, who asked to be identified only by his first name because of security concerns.

He is a co-founder of one of the numerous military shops in Kramatorsk serving soldiers. Oleksandr said he marks up prices by only 1 hryvnia (2 cents) above the manufacturer's price. He said the aim isn't to earn money but to provide the military with the necessary equipment.

Many residents cherish new work opportunities brought by the reopening of shops and restaurants.

But there are fewer options for older people, said Tetiana Podosionova, 54. She worked at the Kramatorsk Machinebuilding Plant for 32 years, but the plant closed due to security risks when the war started.

"I had hoped to work at the factory until retirement," Podosionova said. Most jobs are now in restaurants and shops, where she had no experience.

Finally, she found a job at Amazing Fish Aquarium, which resumed operations months after the war began. The aquarium has hundreds of exotic fish and dozens of parrots and remains open to entertain residents, who are often stressed from missile strikes.

But every reopened business carries risk. Ihnatenko, the pizzeria owner, still comes to his destroyed restaurant every day when he's in Kramatorsk. He doesn't know why. He looks tired. His voice is hardly above a whisper.

He, like many business owners, saw Ukraine's successful counteroffensive in the neighboring Kharkiv region last year as a sign that life could return to Kramatorsk.

"It seemed safer here," he explained, standing in the rubble of his restaurant.

He has no plans to rebuild and reopen yet again.

His tragic experience shows the challenges that business owners face while keeping their doors open.

"A missile can come at any moment," he said.
President Joe Biden met Friday with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in the White House, a meeting that was expected to lead to a sit-down with Chinese President Xi Jinping next month.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken and national security adviser Jake Sullivan were also present, according to administration spokesman John Kirby.

Biden emphasized that both the United States and China need to manage competition in the relationship responsibly and maintain open lines of communication, and he underscored that the United States and China must work together to address global challenges.

Wang, China's top diplomat, arrived in Washington on Thursday for meetings with senior U.S. officials on bilateral and regional security issues, ahead of a possible meeting between U.S. and Chinese leaders next month.

Blinken hosted Wang at the State Department for a working dinner after meetings earlier in the day. White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan held talks with him Friday at Blair House near the White House.

Just before his two-hour meeting with Blinken on Thursday afternoon, Wang told reporters that "China and the United States need to have dialogue" that's "in-depth and comprehensive" so that they can reduce misunderstanding and "return to the track of healthy, stable and sustainable development."

"In China-U.S. relations, from time to time there will be some jarring voices," he said, adding "what is right and what is wrong is not determined by who has the strongest arm or a loud voice."

His remarks came a day after Biden said that China's global infrastructure push, known as the Belt and Road Initiative, has left its partners "dead in the noose."

Blinken met with President Xi in Beijing for 35 minutes on June 19 during a trip to stabilize fraught bilateral ties.

This meeting is consistent with commitments by both sides to maintain this strategic channel of communication as part of ongoing efforts to responsibly manage the relationship, National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said in a statement.

Senior officials from the Biden administration have previewed a range of issues, including Israels war with Hamas, Russias war on Ukraine, the fentanyl crisis, Taiwan, and a recent vessel collision in the South China Sea.

Meanwhile, congressional critics have urged China to release wrongfully detained American citizens and have condemned Chinese military behavior in the South China Sea.

During its meetings with Wang Yi, the Biden administration should not fall for false promises but demand deliverables such as releasing Americans taken hostage in China, stopping the export of fentanyl precursors and halting its military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul and Indo-Pacific subcommittee Chairwoman Young Kim said in a statement.

Roger Carstens, special presidential envoy for hostage affairs, is among the U.S. officials attending a meeting with Wang in a smaller setting.

Thursday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller told VOA that U.S. officials meeting with Chinese officials would continue to raise concerns about the fate of Americans wrongfully detained by China.

I can assure you that we were working behind the scenes to try to secure their release as soon as possible, Miller said during a briefing.

The Dui Hua Foundation, a San Francisco humanitarian organization that advocates for the release of political and religious prisoners, told VOA last July that it estimated up to 200 Americans were being arbitrarily detained in China, and that as many as 30 were subject to unlawful exit bans.

Taiwan

The United States has cautioned China against a military escalation in the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese military has been intensifying activities around Taiwan for months leading into the self-ruled democracys presidential election in January 2024.

Foxconn, the New Taipei City-based Fortune 500 company known for making Apple iPhones, recently underwent inspections of its mainland facilities by Chinese tax authorities.

The probe comes at a sensitive time, because Foxconn founder Terry Gou is seeking the presidency in Taiwan's election as an independent candidate. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has never ruled Taiwan but claims sovereignty over the self-ruled democracy.

Many analysts see China's probe as an attempt to force Gou out of the elections for fear that he will drain votes away from pro-Beijing candidates with a better chance of winning.

We have deep confidence in Taiwans democratic process and believe it is for Taiwan voters to decide their next leader, free from outside interference, Miller told reporters Thursday.

Washington has said it does not take sides in Taiwan's elections and is committed to the fair treatment of all candidates. U.S. policy on Taiwan will remain the same, regardless of whichever party is in power, Miller said.

This week, U.S. Representative Mike Gallagher told VOA Mandarin that the most important topic for Biden administration officials to bring up in its talks with Wang is cross-strait deterrence."

We need to send a strong message [to the CCP] that the increasing aggression against Taiwan will not be tolerated. We will help Taiwan defend itself, said Gallagher, a Republican who chairs the House Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the U.S. and the CCP.

Chinese troubles

China is having their own internal and external difficulties right now, Biden said Wednesday during a press conference with visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. China's economic growth is stagnant compared to what it was. China has engaged in activities [of] intimidation when dealing with other countries.

Biden also reiterated Washingtons support for the Philippines following a recent incident in which Chinese ships blocked and collided with two Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal in the contested South China Sea.

Just this past week, the PRC vessels acted dangerously and unlawfully as our Philippine friends conducted a routine resupply mission within their own exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, Biden said, using an initialism for the Peoples Republic of China.

The United States defense commitment to the Philippines is ironclad, he said, adding that the U.S. is not looking for a conflict with China.

China asserts sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, a resource-rich waterway with competing territorial claims from several other countries.

Middle East

Blinken has called on China to use its influence over Iran to prevent the Israel-Hamas war from spreading but the U.S. expectation is said to be low amid key divisions with China. Washington said Tehran continues to support Hamas militants, who do not support a two-state solution.

Hamas does not represent the vast majority of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip or anywhere else, Biden said during the press conference. Hamas is hiding behind Palestinian civilians.

The United States, Israel, Egypt, the European Union, Japan and others have designated Hamas a terrorist organization.

China, like Russia, does not classify Hamas as a terrorist group but regards it as a legitimate representative of the Palestinians in Gaza.

Earlier this week, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the Beijing government hoped the U.S. would work with China to properly manage differences and jointly bring the bilateral relations back to the track of sound and steady development.

As Israel prepares a ground incursion into Gaza, Wang told Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen that all countries have the right to self-defense, but it is important to observe international humanitarian law and protect civilians, during a phone call on Monday.

Sullivan held talks with Wang in Malta September 16-17 following their meetings in Vienna May 10-11. The White House said they discussed issues including Russias war in Ukraine and also noted the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

On Thursday at the State Department, Wang did not answer a question by VOA when asked if China is willing to use its influence to persuade Iran from widening the war.

Yihua Lee from VOA Mandarin contributed to this report.
Political leaders in the Mississippi River area are looking to form a multistate compact to manage threats from climate change, water pollution and drought-affected regions elsewhere.

Twenty million people drink from the Mississippi River and its tributaries every day, including me and my family, said Colin Wellenkamp, executive director of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative.

With the worlds fourth-largest basin, the Mississippi River supports more than 400 species of wildlife, has led to more than 350,000 jobs and generates more than $21 billion in annual tourism, fishing and recreation spending, according to the nonprofit group American Rivers.

Whether youre looking at it from a clean water standpoint, an ecological standpoint, a shipping of goods standpoint, or even from national security, theres not a more important waterway in our country, Wellenkamp told VOA. We need to come together to protect and manage this critical resource.

Thats what community and political leaders hope to do with a Mississippi River Compact to help unify lawmakers and residents along more than 3,700 kilometers (2,300 miles) of Americas most important river.

The compacts framework would join 10 states in the collective management of river resources in consultation with stakeholders, including environmental groups, businesses and riverfront communities, to promote transparency and a shared sense of responsibility for the rivers well-being.

When a farmer in a state upriver uses harmful fertilizer, for example, it affects the ability for fishermen to catch healthy fish at the bottom of the river in the Gulf of Mexico, Wellenkamp said.

Nitrogen and phosphorus in runoff from lawns, sewage treatment plants, farmland and other sources along the river trigger algae blooms that choke off oxygen in water, killing marine life. Where the river meets the Gulf, that has caused a dead zone the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates is costing U.S seafood and tourism industries more than $82 million per year.

The problems facing the Mississippi River are many, said Matt Rota, senior policy director at Healthy Gulf in New Orleans, Louisiana. Only looking at the environmental side of things, we need to address water diversion protections, the Gulf dead zone, pollution, catastrophic flooding and  as were seeing right now in Louisiana  persistent droughts that are allowing saltwater from the Gulf to make our water undrinkable.

These issues cant be addressed state by state, Rota continued. They require a whole river perspective. Its vague right now exactly what a compact would cover, but theres certain potential. From shipping to flooding to agriculture to wastewater disposal to drinking water and more, if a compact could prioritize the sustainability of the river, maybe it could help attract funds to help solve these problems.

A thousand-mile journey

Tackling these challenges as a group could prove difficult.

Solving the collective problems that span the river will require political cooperation among a very diverse group of states that dont always agree on river management priorities, particularly around water quality issues such as nutrient pollution, said David Strifling, director of the Water Law and Policy Initiative at Marquette University.

Still, he said, the resolution to pursue the development of a Mississippi River Compact is the first step in a journey of a thousand miles.

Wellenkamp acknowledged that states along the river do not always agree on what is best, but when the river experiences record-breaking floods, we are all under threat. And when we have record-breaking droughts, we all suffer. When harmful chemicals find their way into the river up north, it hurts those of us in the South. And when manufacturing operations along the river in the south are hurting, it harms their headquarters in cities along the river in the North.

In pursuing a compact, Strifling believes it is promising that political leaders in the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative are rallying around issues that unify them, such as protections against diverting water to places outside the river basin.

Threat of thirsty eyes

The western region of the United States is experiencing a historic drought that U.S. Geological Survey data shows has resulted in a 20% drop in water flow along the important Colorado River over the last two decades. Kim Mitchell, senior policy advisor with Healthy Rivers, says the data suggests things could get worse in the years ahead.

The U.S. Geological Survey is forecasting that the Colorado River could lose another 25 to 30% of its flow by 2050, she told VOA, before offering a solution. Conserving and using our existing water supply more efficiently is the cheapest and fastest way to meet the Wests water needs. The Colorado River has been pushed to its breaking point, and cities, farms, ranches, and businesses throughout the Basin will need to cut water use by at least 25%.

Some western U.S. leaders, however, are looking at a different fix, one that includes shipping water out west from the Mississippi and from its large tributary, the Missouri River. Arizona Governor Doug Ducey last year agreed to spend $1 billion to investigate solutions that include pumping flood waters from the Mississippi River into the depleted Colorado.

The idea of piping excess Mississippi River water across the continental divide to supply water to the desert Southwest has persisted for decades no matter how unworkable it has been proven to be, Trevor Russell, director of Friends of the Mississippi Rivers Water Program, told VOA. But not only would it just be a band aid for the problems being experienced out West, it would put the Mississippi River  Americas greatest river  at risk, too.

That is where a Mississippi River compact could be especially beneficial.

States with thirsty eyes have been wanting to put a straw in the Mississippi for years, Wellenkamp said. A Mississippi River Compact would finally put an end to that threat because no state along the river could give another state access to the river without the other states permission.
It has been almost three months since Victoria Roshchyna's family and colleagues received any word from the award-winning Ukrainian journalist.

Roshchyna, who is known for her courageous reporting on Moscow's invasion of Ukraine, disappeared shortly after passing a checkpoint. Friends and colleagues believe Russian forces detained her.

The reporter had quickly pivoted from covering court cases to reporting from the front lines when Russian forces invaded her home country.

As a freelance journalist, she has written for publications that include the Ukrainian news websites Hromadske and Ukrainska Pravda, as well as the broadcaster Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.

Roshchyna told the stories of children killed in Dnipro and Berdyansk. She spoke to survivors of a missile strike in Uman and reported from Mariupol, where Russian occupiers staged a celebration in front of ruined houses. She interviewed soldiers and civilians, putting a human face to the brutality of war.

But covering these stories came with great personal risk.

On March 5, 2022, the car that Roshchyna was traveling in was shot at by Russian forces. She and the driver managed to escape and seek shelter in a nearby house. Roshchyna's camera and laptop were stolen from the car, according to reports from the Committee to Protect Journalists, a New York-based nonprofit.

Less than a week later, Russian security agents detained Roshchyna. She was held for 10 days, hit and threatened.

She detailed the experience for Hromadske, writing, "I didn't feel fear  there was only despair over the unknown and wasted time, the inability to do my job."

"The fact that she was detained by Russian soldiers and lived through that experience and went back and kept reporting as if that never happened certainly shows an incredible amount of courage and tenacity and a journalist who's willing to risk everything to report the news," said Elisa Lees Munoz, executive director of the International Women's Media Foundation, or IWMF.

The IWMF in 2022 awarded Roshchyna its Courage Award for her coverage of the war.

One year on from presenting that award, Munoz and others are advocating for Roshchyna's release.

"To disappear somebody is one of the worst things that one can do," Munoz said. "It's certainly intended to send a message to others  we can do that to anybody."

Last call

Roshchyna left Ukraine in late July to travel through Poland and Russia to try to reach Russian-occupied territories of southeastern Ukraine.

On August 3, she called a relative to say she'd passed through several checkpoints, although she didn't specify where, Anna Nemtsova told VOA. Nemtsova is a correspondent for the Daily Beast who has spoken directly to Roshchyna's family.

The Ukrainian security service informed Roshchyna's father that she was captured by Russians, Nemtsova said. Friends have searched for her in and around jails in occupied regions but have found no trace.

VOA emailed the Russian Embassy in Washington for comment but did not receive a reply.

The Ukrainian National Information Bureau told VOA that it keeps records of prisoners of war and civilian hostages but added, "By law we cannot share the data from our records or provide any media comments thereof."

"Her parents are heartbroken," Nemtsova told VOA. "Her father, her mother, her sister, they're all very, very worried about her. And they regret that she wouldn't stop covering the most dangerous regions. But nobody could stop Victoria."

Nemtsova, who covers stories on Russia and Eastern Europe, became familiar with Roshchyna by reading her articles.

Later, the two spoke multiple times over the phone. It was Nemtsova, a past IWMF courage honoree, who nominated her colleague for the award.

"She was treating this story, this tragedy, the invasion of Ukraine as the main thing, the why, the most important thing," Nemtsova told VOA. She heard from mutual friends that, during the winter months of the war, Roshchyna "looked like a shadow, she was so tired." But she kept reporting.

Maria Romanenko, a Ukrainian journalist and activist, worked alongside Roshchyna for several years while she was then editor-in-chief at Hromadske, an independent Ukrainian media outlet.

Romanenko described Roshchyna as a quiet, hardworking woman with fierce courage and a tireless commitment to journalism.

She had this "very, very impressive braveness in her," Romanenko told VOA. She was "always going for those stories that nobody else, I think, really wanted to, and she did it willingly."

Romanenko left Ukraine after the Russian invasion and now lives in the U.K. She said that in the early days of the war, journalists were afraid of what would happen to press freedom if Russians fully occupied the country.

In Russia, it's not uncommon for journalists to go missing, be detained or even killed, Romanenko said. Russia "is not a safe environment for journalists," she told VOA. "And when they invade other countries and attack other countries, they try to reproduce the same scenarios in the areas that they manage to occupy."

Reporters Without Borders, the Paris-based nonprofit, ranks Russia 164 out of 180 countries in terms of press freedom, with 180 being least free.

Around the same time Roshchyna was first detained, Romanenko's colleague Maks Levin went missing. Levin's body was later found near Kyiv. An investigation later concluded Russian troops killed him.

Romanenko says she keeps checking social media apps, hoping for news. "It's a strange reality that we find ourselves in  just going on those chats and checking when she was last online, just hoping that it will suddenly change to 'online now,' " Romanenko said.

Although Munoz, Nemtsova and Romanenko all hope for Roshchyna's safe return, they also fear the worst.

"We don't know in what basement she's in. What kind of pressure she's suffering from," Nemtsova told VOA. "The most important thing for her friends, for supporters, for her family is that she's alive.  We don't know that yet."
The House of Representatives has elected a speaker, but who is Mike Johnson, and what does he stand for? We get the latest from the Israel-Hamas war and a look at whats happening in the West Bank. Plus the Australian prime minister is visiting Washington, well have an update from the White House.
More than two weeks after Hamas militants rampaged through a string of sleepy farming towns, many Israelis are furious at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, not just for failing to prevent the attack, but for failing to come to their aid afterward.

While the military is launching unrelenting airstrikes in Gaza that have killed thousands of Palestinians, and hundreds of thousands of Israeli troops are massing for a possible ground offensive, government infighting and lack of help for those in need have left traumatized survivors to mourn on their own and volunteers  many of whom spent the past year protesting the government  to take on recovery efforts.

"It has to be clear. The government is completely incompetent," said Ruvi Dar, a clinical psychologist and Tel Aviv University professor who has been counseling survivors evacuated from their homes.

"Any support that the refugees are getting right now is completely grassroots. Absolutely nothing by the state," he said, adding that even volunteers' hotel rooms are paid for by nonprofit groups.

The backdrop to the outcry is the long-running and contentious plan by Netanyahu and his far-right government to sharply curtail the power of the nation's judiciary, which sparked months of protests and consumed the Cabinet and the nation.

Many believe the government neglected basic functions while it focused its efforts on attacking the Supreme Court, which it accused of being liberal and interventionist.

Critics have accused Netanyahu of recklessly ignoring a raft of issues. The police force is understaffed, and the military was caught off guard on Israel's southern flank as forces were more heavily stationed in the occupied West Bank, home to half a million settlers. The government did little to address the spiraling cost of living and rampant killings in Israel's own Arab communities, while ultra-Orthodox Jewish and pro-settlement coalition partners have received billions of dollars for pet projects.

"Government offices haven't been functioning for a year now, so obviously they can't cope with emergency situations. They wasted a whole year on nonsense," Arnon Bar David, head of Israel's Histadrut trade union, told Army Radio.

The government faced public wrath almost immediately after being caught by surprise by the October 7 Hamas attack that killed more than 1,400 people, the vast majority civilians. It took hours for the stunned military to respond and send troops to counter-attack, a chaotic response that foreshadowed the government's dysfunction.

Some government ministers have been blocked by residents from visiting attacked communities and others have been screamed at while visiting the wounded at hospitals.

Standing just feet from Economy Minister Nir Barkat, Ophir Shai's eulogy for his brother, Yaron, turned into a furious attack on the government.

"You abandoned the soldiers of the IDF. You abandoned the people who live along the Gaza border. You abandoned the state of Israel. You abandoned my beloved brother. I expect you all to take responsibility and resign immediately after the war ends," he said.

"I won't forget, and I won't forgive. I promise to hunt you down forever."

Even after the initial massacre, the government was slow to respond and appeared in disarray. Israel's public diplomacy minister, meant to serve as a spokeswoman to the international media, quit in a huff after her responsibilities were turned over to other ministries.

Polls show Netanyahu's already plunging popularity has collapsed. While other members of the government and the heads of the army and the Shin Bet security service have apologized and taken responsibility for the attack, Netanyahu said nothing of the sort for weeks. Only Wednesday night, 18 days after the attack, did he come close to accepting some responsibility.

"This failure will be investigated thoroughly. Everyone will need to provide answers, myself included, but all of this will happen only after the war," he said in a brief nationwide address.

Netanyahu also boasted of government assistance for victims, including mass evacuations from hard-hit border communities. "We will not leave anyone behind," he said.

But Netanyahu has not publicly visited the wounded in hospitals, consoled traumatized evacuated families or gone to a funeral for any of those killed. He has made several public statements, mainly as he greeted world leaders offering support, and he has visited soldiers in the field. But he has not taken questions from Israel's famously combative media.

With over 200 people being held captive by Hamas militants in Gaza, he did not meet with any of their families until more than a week after the attack  two days after U.S. President Joe Biden spoke to families of U.S. citizens being held.

Meanwhile, Israeli media has reported about a string of government turf wars holding up assistance to victims' families and evacuees displaced from their homes.

For two days after the attack, "the government wasn't functioning. We didn't get any help," said Yossi Keren, who became head of the regional council in Sha'ar HaNegev, where many of the attacks took place, after his predecessor was killed confronting Hamas gunmen.

Most residents have evacuated, and their needs  everything from getting schooling for children to replacing computers families left behind  are enormous, he said. The government response is slowly getting better, though he remains wary.

"If the government won't step in, the crisis will be bigger. Much bigger," Keren said.

Danny Danon, a senior member of Netanyahu's Likud Party, acknowledged the government's shortcomings.

"The government agencies were not capable of dealing with the numbers. So it took them some time to come back and to set up and provide the proper services," he said. "Certainly it's legitimate for the families to express their pain and criticism."

He said there would be an inquiry into what went wrong after the war, but right now Israel must remain focused on defeating Hamas. "Netanyahu is very mission-oriented now in the war effort," he said.

Gideon Rahat, a political science professor at Hebrew University, said the dysfunction was a result of a bloated, divisive government that demonized and then pushed out many respected bureaucrats who would have been competent to handle an emergency.

"When you are a populist government and all you do is talk and tweet and write posts instead of doing real things, when you are needed you don't know what to do," he said.

That vacuum in the current crisis has been filled by the government's sworn enemies, opponents of the judicial overhaul who had mobilized tens of thousands of protesters for weekly demonstrations against the overhaul plan.

Less than 12 hours after the October 7 attack, they sent teams of medical volunteers to hospitals to help with the wounded and deliver food to their families, said Oren Shvill, one of the group's organizers. The next day, they started evacuating families and pairing them up with host families.

"Really fast, we managed to transform our organization from protesting to civilian aid," he said. "Everything we asked for, people just jumped on the mission."

Now, they have 15,000 volunteers a day coordinated from logistics centers in Tel Aviv, near Gaza and in the north, where the army is fighting Hezbollah militants in Lebanon, he said. And they've been lauded as heroes in Israel.

They helped locate missing people; sent equipment to soldiers called to the Gaza border; shipped donated food, clothes, toys and medicine to the evacuees; and began coordinating an informal public relations operation for the country, Shvill said. They sent teachers and therapists to the evacuees' hotels and set up operations there to answer their questions.

This week, they began sending volunteers to milk cows, pick tomatoes and cucumbers, and plant potatoes at abandoned farms in the south.

"Everything we are doing should have been done by the government," he said.
Nigerias Supreme Court confirmed President Bola Tinubu as the winner of Februarys presidential election, dismissing challenges brought by his political opposition, who cited flaws in the voting system and said Tinubu lacked qualifications.

The court said Thursday that the challenges were "devoid of merits." The ruling follows a decision in which two other candidates saw their petitions rejected by an appeals court last month, clearing the way for Tinubus presidency.

The candidates who appealed the election results, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party, or PDP, and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, stated that the electoral commission failed to electronically transmit results from polling stations to an online portal. Abubakar and Obi came in second and third, respectively, in the February vote.

They also argued that Tinubu had won less than 25% of the vote in the federal capital, Abuja, short of the legal threshold to become president.

Abubakar's lawyers tried to submit evidence that Tinubu had forged academic credentials from an American university, but the court denied this, stating that it was not reflected in the original petition within the time frame provided by the Nigerian Constitution.

"Facts and documents which were not pleaded in the petition have no place in deciding the dispute between the parties," Justice Inyang Okoro said.

The court's ruling follows a trend in which several other Nigerian elections have been challenged for alleged ballot-tampering and fraud, but none have been overturned.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press and Reuters.
SYDNEY, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- A man has been charged after more than 27 million Australian dollars (about 16.9 million U.S. dollars) worth of prohibited drugs were seized in Australia's state of Queensland.

Queensland Police said in a statement on Thursday that search warrants were executed earlier this week at two properties in Bundall and Surfers Paradise, two suburbs in the City of Gold Coast.

Police seized approximately 27.17 kilograms of methylamphetamine and around 20,000 Australian dollars (about 12,550 U.S. dollars) in cash.

During the search, a 30-year-old man was also taken into custody. He was charged with six offenses, including possessing dangerous drugs and possessing property suspected of being the proceeds of an offense.

Police confirmed that after appearing before the court on Wednesday. The offender was remanded in custody until Nov. 8. 
Nigerian authorities are seeking to pass a law that would give the government power to regulate digital platforms across the country. Supporters say social media has been used to spread falsehoods that threaten lives and property. But opponents say it's an attempt to stifle free speech and dissenting opinions. Timothy Obiezu has the story from the capital, Abuja.
Sporadic intense fighting continues in the eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka and surrounding areas of the Donetsk region as Kyiv watches a European Union summit in Brussels where the 27-nation bloc is expected to reiterate its condemnation of Russia's war and support for Ukraine amid fears of donor fatigue among some members.

Kyiv's troops have repelled as many as 15 attacks by Russian forces in and around Avdiivka, a town that has largely been turned to rubble due to Russian bombing, over the past 24 hours, according to the Ukrainian armed forces.

Avdiivka has been the site of Moscow's largest offensive in the war in months, and some analysts say Ukraine's supply lines have been whittled down to a narrow corridor.

With the the war now in its 21st month, European Union leaders are expected to reaffirm their support for "Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity" and "its inherent right of self-defense," according to the draft conclusions of the summit, seen by RFE/RL.

The document, which is not final and must still be approved by EU leaders, will also reaffirm the bloc's intention to continue to provide "strong financial, economic, humanitarian, military and diplomatic support to Ukraine and its people for as long as it takes."

The draft conclusions will also call for "further strengthening sanctions" against Russia over its aggression and will call on the European Commission to "accelerate work" on propositions on how revenues stemming directly from Russia's immobilized assets could be directed to support Ukraine and its recovery and reconstruction.

Meanwhile, Ukraine is reported to have temporarily closed its new Black Sea grain export corridor due to a possible threat from Russian warplanes and sea mines.

Barva Invest, a Ukrainian agricultural brokerage and analytics company, said that with defense officials citing increased Russian aircraft activities in the Black Sea area, inbound and outbound vessel traffic has been temporarily suspended.

In August, Ukraine announced a so-called "humanitarian corridor" to release ships bound for African and Asian markets, and to circumvent a de facto blockade after Russia abandoned a deal this summer that had guaranteed its exports during the war. The route runs along Ukraine's southwest Black Sea coast, into Romanian territorial waters and onwards to Turkey.

Some information for his report came from Reuters.
The Taliban government in Afghanistan released a nationally known education activist Thursday after nearly seven months in prison.

Matiullah Wesa, founder of PenPath, a community-based education support network, was picked up at gunpoint in Kabul in March for alleged "suspicious activities." His house was raided by de facto Afghan authorities.

"Matiullah Wesa was released today after spending 215 days in prison," PenPath confirmed through the X social media platform.

Taliban officials did not immediately comment on the activist's release. His arrest outraged the international community and drew widespread calls for the Taliban to free him.

"I welcome the release of Matiullah Wesa and call for the immediate & unconditional release of all #Afghanistan human rights defenders who are arbitrarily detained for standing up for their own rights & the human rights of others," Richard Bennett, the United Nations special rapporteur on the situation of Afghan human rights, wrote on X.

Amnesty International hailed Wesa's release as "good news from Afghanistan" and said on X that he "should never have been jailed for promoting girls' right to education."

The rights group urged the Taliban to release other detained Afghan human rights defenders, identifying them as Rasool Parsi, Neda Parwani, Zholia Parsi and Manizha Sediqi, saying they "are unfairly kept behind bars for standing up for equality and denouncing repression."

After the Taliban closed schools for teenage girls beyond the sixth grade in Afghanistan last year, Wesa kept visiting provinces to advocate for female education through his organization before being arrested.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid suggested that the activist was detained and interrogated for activities unrelated to his work.

Mujahid alleged that Wesa "had secret and open meetings without informing the [Taliban] government. He also had connections abroad and was getting instructions from abroad."

Wesas brother rejected Mujahid's allegations, saying that PenPath's activities and meetings with foreign partners were public.

Wesa's release came just days after the London-based nonprofit Index on Censorship declared him the winner of this year's campaign award in recognition of his advocacy for education for women even after the Taliban reclaimed control of Afghanistan two years ago.

Through his PenPath network, established in 2009, Wesa has promoted education and negotiated with village elders in conservative Afghan society to allow their girls to attend school. The network has equipped hundreds of thousands of children with pens and books and set up libraries in rural Afghanistan. Wesa would set out on a motorbike, using it as a mobile classroom with a computer screen, speakers and a bookcase.

The hard-line Taliban returned to power in August 2021 as the United States and its Western coalition partners withdrew their troops from Afghanistan after almost two decades of involvement in the Afghan war.

Since then, the male-only Taliban government has placed an indefinite ban on girls' education, ordered most female government employees to stay home and barred the U.N. and nongovernmental aid groups from employing Afghan women.

Taliban leaders have rejected international calls for them to remove restrictions on women and respect civil liberties before seeking formal recognition for their rule in Kabul. They have ruled out any compromise on their governance, saying it is aligned with Afghan culture and Islamic law.
Hostilities in the Middle East are reverberating in the United States, where homeland security and law enforcement officials are tracking a steady increase in threats to Jewish, Arab and Muslim communities.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the FBI issued an updated advisory late Wednesday, warning "the volume and frequency of threats  have increased" in just the past week.

"These threats have included hoax bomb threats targeting houses of worship and violent rhetoric online encouraging attacks against the Jewish, Arab American, and Muslim communities," the advisory said.

It also pointed to the October 14 stabbing attack in Illinois that killed a 6-year-old Palestinian American boy and severely wounded his mother.

Law enforcement agencies across the country, including in New York, Los Angeles and Washington, increased police patrols and other security measures in the days following the October 7 terrorist attack by the Hamas militant group that killed more than 1,400 Israelis.

Additional measures were put in place ahead of calls by a former Hamas official for a day of rage in response to Israel's air campaign against Hamas, which according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry has killed more than 6,500 people.

The latest advisory from DHS and the FBI says the biggest threat continues to come from "violent extremists and lone offenders motivated by or reacting to ongoing events."

"We have no specific information that foreign adversaries are plotting attacks against the homeland," according to the advisory, though it adds, "some are seeking to take advantage of the conflict, calling for violence in furtherance of their respective goals."

Officials, in particular, point to an October 13 call by al-Qaida for people to support Hamas by attacking American military bases, airports and embassies. It also notes a social media post from the Islamic State terror group on October 19 which urged followers to target the Jewish presence all over the world, "especially Jewish neighborhoods in America and Europe."

Additionally, officials have raised concerns about Iran, accusing Iranian-backed media of amplifying mis- and disinformation to English-speaking audiences with what the advisory describes as "verifiably doctored or mislabeled images and video footage, inaccurate translations, and misleading content  to stoke passions, accelerate the process of radicalization, and lead individuals to engage in targeted violence."

Separately, an apparent memo from U.S. Customs and Border Protection recently warned that operatives with links to three U.S.-designated terrorist organizations  Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hezbollah  might try to enter the U.S. along its southern border.

The U.S. has designated all three groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.

Officials have declined to confirm the authenticity of the memo but told VOA, "CBP has seen no indication of Hamas-directed foreign fighters seeking to make entry into the United States."
In an emergency session of the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center (TFTC) this week, the U.S. called on allies in the Middle East to increase efforts to cut off outside funding for Hamas, the organization that perpetrated a massive attack on Israeli civilians on October 7.

The Treasury Department called on the member countries of the TFTC to use their influence to do more to cut off the flow of funds to Hamas, which controls the Gaza Strip, home to some 2.3 million Palestinians who have been under relentless Israeli shelling for more than two weeks.

The U.S. has classified Hamas as a terrorist organization since 1997.

From our perspective, not acting against Hamas and its terrorism is a disservice to the Palestinian people, Treasury Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson said in a prepared statement released Tuesday to the group.

From a financial standpoint, we can clearly see that Hamas has exacerbated economic hardships for decades in the Gaza Strip by diverting humanitarian assistance to support its campaign of terror, and we must publicly condemn these actions.

The TFTC is made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and the United States.

Meeting schedule accelerated

In his remarks, Nelson said, We cannot tolerate a world in which Hamas and other terrorist organizations fundraisers live and operate with impunity, abusing the financial system, to sustain their terror. The United States will not tolerate that world.

Founded in 2017, the TFTC is based in Riyadh, and brings together government officials from its member countries to discuss ways in which they can collaborate to reduce the flow of funds to terrorist organizations and to combat money laundering in general.

The meeting this week, originally scheduled for November, was brought forward as a result of the crisis in Israel and Gaza.

Just a week ago, the U.S. Treasury Department announced new sanctions on Hamas, including on a secret investment portfolio that it claimed brought in large sums of money for the group.

New priorities

Jessica Davis, a visiting senior fellow at the Soufan Center and an expert on countering terrorism finance, told VOA that international efforts to crack down on Hamas funding sources have waned in recent years as the perception grew that it was less of a terrorist threat than it had been in the past.

That was obviously wrong, Davis said. The events of October 7 demonstrate that Hamas continues to be a problem. And that's probably going to shift some countries prioritization and reinvigorate efforts to counter their financing.

The U.S. will be asking members of the TFTC, as well as other countries in the region, to accelerate that shift. One request will be that countries take concerted action to prevent Hamas from simply moving fundraising operations from one country to another when sanctions begin to bite.

There's definitely plenty of avenues of Hamas financing that can be shut down, and it's not just in the Middle East, she said. Historically, Hamas has operated broad networks, drawing support from charities and identity-based support networks.

A lot of these networks exist around the world, Davis said. Some of them are smaller, some of them are bigger. A lot of them are in the Middle East, but a lot of them are outside of the Middle East. And [those networks are] really the place where the international community can have some impact at this point in time.

Shutting down those networks, she said, could have a meaningful impact on Hamas and its capacity to continue operations.

Aid to Gaza questioned

On Wednesday, the Republican-led House Oversight Committee issued a letter to the Biden administration calling on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to provide assurances that humanitarian aid delivered to the people of the Gaza Strip does not fall into the hands of Hamas, or other organizations considered terrorist groups by the U.S. government.

The letter, addressed to USAID Administrator Samantha Power, was signed by 24 Republican members of the committee, including Chairman James Comer.

The scale and complexity of the barbaric Hamas atrocities that commenced on October 7th in Israel make it clear that significant financial resources were used for these attacks, the letter noted. It pointed out that under the Trump administration, aid to Gaza had been sharply reduced because of the difficulty in ascertaining that it was not being used to benefit Hamas, a position that was subsequently reversed by the Biden administration.

In outlining the committees request for information from USAID, the letter stressed that the Hamas attacks had directly harmed U.S. citizens as well as Israelis.

The most recent atrocities committed by Hamas have resulted in significant and rising numbers of deaths and injuries, including dozens of American casualties and hostages, it said. This episode underscores the critical importance of ensuring aid funds do not inadvertently increase financial support for terrorist activity.

If U.S. taxpayer dollars are financing terrorist activity, the Biden Administration must cease such aid in order to protect Americans and our allies.
The U.S. auto workers union reached a tentative agreement with Ford late Wednesday, a breakthrough in a 41-day stoppage on Detroit's "Big Three" car manufacturers.

The deal, which rank-and-file workers must still approve in a vote, includes a 25% wage increase for hourly employees, the United Auto Workers union said.

Other key elements include guaranteed cost-of-living adjustments; an elimination of different pay levels or "tiers" that disadvantage junior employees; and a right to strike over plant closures.

"For months we've said that record profits mean record contracts," said UAW President Shawn Fain in a statement. "And UAW family, our Stand Up Strike has delivered."

Ford confirmed the agreement, saying "we are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations."

Also cheering was U.S. President Joe Biden, who hailed an "historic accord," saying "I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard-fought, good-faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight."

Biden made history in September as the first U.S. president to stand on a picket line as he endorsed the UAW's call for "record" contracts in light of record auto industry profits.

The wage increase in the tentative agreement is somewhat lower than the 40% sought by Fain when the UAW launched the strike on September 15 in the first ever simultaneous stoppage of Detroit's Big Three (Ford, General Motors and Stellantis).

However, it is much above the 9% increase Ford initially proposed in August.

"This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry," Fain said, while stressing that the final decision rests with members.

"We're going to let that democratic process take its course," said Fain, calling the rank-and-file "the highest authority."

Fain said the ratification process will include detailed online presentations and regional meetings.

After rejecting a tentative agreement struck by UAW negotiators, workers at Mack Trucks voted to go on strike earlier this month.

Expanding strike

While the initial UAW strike targeted three plants with just 12,700 workers walking out, the union has gradually expanded the action in the ensuing weeks as it has sought a better deal.

More than 45,000 workers were on strike prior to the Ford deal. The UAW has about 146,000 auto workers in the United States.

In just the last two days, the UAW escalated the strike at both Stellantis and GM, taking down key factories in Michigan and Texas that make some of the companies' most profitable vehicles.

Both GM and Stellantis are currently offering 2% wage hikes. Fain has argued the companies need to sweeten the deal further in light of union concessions after bankruptcy reorganizations more than a decade ago.

Following a tentative agreement, labor unions sometimes do not end a strike until the accord is ratified by members.

But in a twist, the UAW said Ford workers would return to their shifts to apply pressure to GM and Stellantis.

"This is a strategic move to get the best deal possible," said UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, adding that "the last thing" GM and Stellantis want is for Ford to get back to full capacity while they mess around and lag behind."
Internal dissent within the Biden administration over its unwavering support of Israels military offensive in Gaza in retaliation for the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas was evident with the recent resignation of a diplomat.

Josh Paul, who until last week was the director of congressional and public affairs at the State Departments bureau that handles arms transfers and security assistance to foreign governments, quit in protest over policies that he said amount to a green light for Israeli retaliation regardless of the toll on civilians.

The State Department did not directly comment on Pauls resignation, saying it was a personnel matter. In a letter to staff, Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the personal difficulties some are facing.

Paul spoke with White House Bureau Chief Patsy Widakuswara about what he said was a lack of responsible debate in his former office on providing Israel with weapons to fight its war in Gaza and how he believes it undermines U.S. strategic interests and values.

This transcript has been edited for clarity and brevity.

VOA: Why did you resign?

Paul: I resigned because I felt that we were in the midst of major policy decisions concerning arms transfers to Israel, but they were not receiving the attention needed and typically received on human rights concerns, civilian casualties concerns, in the context of the conflict that we're currently seeing in Gaza.

VOA: What happened after Oct. 7?

Paul: Very quickly after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas  which, let me be clear, was an absolute atrocity and should be condemned and Israel does have a right to respond to  we started to receive requests from Israel for a large variety of munitions.

Typically, when we receive such requests from partners, there's going to be a policy process where we look at the partners track record on human rights, we look at other factors including risks of civilian harm. There's a Conventional Arms Transfer Policy that guides these decisions, which says that arms shall not be transferred when there is a more likely than not risk that they will be used for human rights violations.

As the Israeli operation in Gaza started with a massive bombardment, we could already see hundreds and then thousands of Palestinian civilians dying. And yet there was no policy debate, no questions about whether we were going to pause and take into account our regular policies and legal requirements. It was just, let's rush these arms to Israel as quickly as we can, and consequences be damned.

VOA: That was an explicit directive? Your superiors at the State Department say that we do not have time for debate, we want everybody to agree on this?

Paul: That's correct.

VOA: Was there an explanation when you protested?

Paul: I don't think an explanation was needed. The understanding was this is Israel. This is a special case. This is how the administration is approaching it. That was made apparent not only internally, but externally with the immediate reaction from the White House to Israel and its response to the attacks.

VOA: You worked in that bureau for 11 years. Has there ever been other instances where the decision to send weapons occurred without debate?

Paul: No, there's always been debates. And let me be clear, I'm not inherently opposed to the transfer of U.S. arms. There are instances in which they do a lot of good, in Ukraine, in support to other allies in Europe. But even in those circumstances, even for our closest allies, if there is hint controversy, it is always discussed.

VOA: Even before this Hamas attack, we sent $3 billion to $4 billion [in military aid] to Israel annually. Has it helped Israeli security? Has it helped regional stability?

Paul: I don't think it has. I'm all for Israelis to live in peace and security, as I am for Palestinians to live in peace and security. The problem is that we have assumed the obstacle to a lasting political solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict is a lack of Israeli security, and if Israel feels more secure then it will be able to make the concessions that it needs to allow a Palestinian state to emerge.



The problem with the blanket of U.S. security and the unquestioning nature of it, Israel feels free to push the envelope, to expand settlements in the West Bank, to build the security barriers across the West Bank, to continue the siege of Gaza. ... Our security systems have, in the long term, not made Israel more secure.



VOA: Many in the Arab world and the global south see U.S. backing of Israel as part of this idea that the U.S. applies double standards in its foreign policy. Would you care to comment on that?

Paul: Thats a really important point. This administration rightly sees strategic competition with the People's Republic of China as the driving, most concerning aspects of international relations. In that conflict, the United States has three edges: military strength, our global network of alliances and partnerships, and our values.

Our posture on Israel is significantly undermining that strategic competition by raising questions about our values. How is the United States any different from any other country in the world if it's willing to walk away from its values when it is politically expedient? It does us not only moral harm, I think it does us strategic harm as well.

VOA: The administration is now trying to balance the support for Israel and humanitarian concerns as well as stop the conflict from broadening. This is a tough balancing act for the president. What is your message to him?

Paul: I fully agree that broadening the conflict would be a disaster for everyone involved, and I am heartened for the focus the administration has put on that, including through deploying carrier strike groups to the Eastern Mediterranean. It sends a strong message.

I think part of preventing the conflict from widening is also minimizing civilian casualties in Gaza. I think the more Palestinian civilians are killed, the harder it will be for stability in other countries, in other parts of the region. So, if we want regional stability, if we don't want this conflict to expand, we need to make sure that it ends as quickly as possible and is carried out as carefully as possible with regards to civilian harm.

VOA: You're making that link between civilian casualties in Gaza to broader regional instability because of the anger of populations in the Arab world?

Paul: We've seen the impact on U.S. reputational damage and diplomatic damage that Israel's response has already cost us in the region. There are consequences to U.S. strategic interests both in the region and around the world. And I think we need to be cognizant of that.

I think that there is a disconnect between the political level in the U.S. and the civil service and American population. I do hope that over time there can be a sea-change at the political level that brings it more in line with what the American people can expect from our foreign policy.
Amid a recent flurry of U.S.-China diplomacy, a leading congressional voice on China policy is warning against concessions to Beijing, saying they simply serve to encourage even more aggressive behavior.

In an interview with VOA's Mandarin Service, Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher said that in meetings this week with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, the Biden administration should focus on the defense of Taiwan, trafficking in drug precursors and human rights.

Gallagher is the chairman of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party. His remarks have been edited for brevity and clarity.

VOA: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting Washington this week. What are the most important topics you would like to see the administration raise in the meetings?

Representative Mike Gallagher: Well, I think the most important topic is cross-strait deterrence. And it seems that Xi Jinping is preparing his country for a war over Taiwan. He's repeatedly said that he wants to take Taiwan by force if necessary, and that's something we need to deter. We need to prevent him from doing that. A conflict between the United States and China would be incredibly costly. It's not something we want, but all the more reason why we need to send a strong message that the increasing aggression against Taiwan will not be tolerated. We will help Taiwan defend itself. And we will do whatever is necessary to defend our own interests in the Indo-Pacific.

Beyond that, I would hope that the administration urges the Chinese Communist Party to take more aggressive action when it comes to cracking down on the production of fentanyl precursors. Fentanyl is flooding across the southern [U.S.] border, and it's killing tens of thousands of Americans. And ultimately, it can be traced back to China. That's unacceptable.

And finally, I hope we don't deprioritize the issue of human rights, whether it is the ongoing genocide in Xinjiang, whether it's the, let's say, economic coercion that's happening globally, whether it's the ongoing suppression of Hong Kongers, there are important human rights issues that the administration needs to raise during these meetings.

VOA: We are seeing more high-level official communications between U.S. and China. Do you think it signals a smoother and maybe a more pragmatic path for U.S.-China relations?

Gallagher: I don't. I think the administration is trying to revive diplomatic and economic engagement in the hope of taking down the temperature, but I think the opposite is happening. It seems that the more we rush or bend over backwards to sit down at a table with Xi Jinping or some other high-level CCP member, the more aggressive the CCP becomes, and we shelve or delay critical defensive action, whether it's ending the licensing exemptions that we provide for Chinese companies like Huawei, or providing transparency on the spy balloon incident or actually investigating the origins of COVID.

We delay these actions for fear of offending the Chinese Communist Party in the hopes that they will reciprocate in kind. And they never do. They continue to hack high-level official emails. They continue to undermine our grid and our infrastructure and cyberspace. They continue to threaten Taiwan, all of these things are unacceptable.

And so, I worry that this policy of engagement, what I've called "zombie engagement," will actually have the opposite effect. It will actually make the CCP more aggressive, and we will lose time that we need to start defending ourselves from CCP aggression.

VOA: Given the current conflict in Israel and ongoing war in Ukraine, how would that affect the U.S. capability to focus on China or the Indo-Pacific and the threats posed by the CCP?

Gallagher: Well, it should be a wake-up call to the West. Increasingly, it looks like we have an axis of authoritarian powers that are arrayed against our interests and those of our allies. China is the dominant player in this partnership. Vladimir Putin is a junior partner. But increasingly, there's collaboration with Iran. These are murderous dictatorial regimes that are threatening our allies. Putin has obviously invaded Ukraine. Hamas has now attacked Israel, killed over 30 Americans, and it could not have done so without the longstanding financial and training support it's received from Iran.

So this should be a wake-up call. I don't believe those who say that it's an either/or choice between resources, you know, resources in Europe, resources in the Middle East or resources in the Indo-Pacific. This should be an opportunity for us to revitalize and rebuild our defense industrial base, which we've neglected for too long, to once again become the arsenal of democracy and deterrence. And if nothing else, to learn the lessons of the failure of deterrence in Ukraine and ensure that those failures are not repeated in the Indo-Pacific region.

And in my mind, the primary lesson is that hard power, American hard power gives us our best chance of deterring totalitarian aggression, and if we don't surge hard power to the Pacific now, before it's too late, we could see a PLA invasion of Taiwan, and it would have the potential to make the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Israel look timid in comparison.
Media watchdogs and journalists in Zimbabwe are fuming after members of the vice presidential security detail ordered journalists to delete photos and video of Second Vice President Kembo Mohadi collapsing at a campaign rally Saturday.

As Mohadi was airlifted to an unknown destination for medical attention, the security detail rounded up journalists and ordered them to wipe out recordings of the event.

Journalists from private and government-controlled media who were covering the Zanu-PF rally where Mohadi collapsed refused to speak openly about the dramatic event in Gutu province, which is about a three-hour drive south of Harare.

One journalist, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said that soon after Mohadi collapsed at the podium, security agents and some Zanu-PF officials rushed to where journalists were gathered.

We were asked to delete our footage, the journalist said. Some phones of some journalists were taken for further checks, especially from those from the private media. The phones were taken for 10 to 15 minutes.

Soon after then, the security was always on journalists  checking the stories that they are going to write, he said. Some of the officials said, There's no story about the collapse of V.P. 

The journalist criticized the security officials actions.

We have the right to our phones for privacy, he said, and also we have the right to inform the nation.

Tabani Moyo, head of the Media Institute of Southern Africa, agreed, saying, A story of that nature is of national interest. For them to round up journalists and request them to delete footage of a situation of a public figure who has collapsed in front of a rally, I think it is unfortunate.

Five days later, there is still no news on Mohadis condition, or even an acknowledgement from government sources that he might be unwell.

Contacted by VOA, both Zanu-PF officials and Jenfan Muswere, Zimbabwes minister of information, refused to comment on the incident.

Perfect Hlongwane, secretary general of the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists, called the incident a sad and unfortunate violation.

It is not just a violation of journalistic rights, but it is also a violation of the constitution itself, Hlongwane said. We want to call on government officials to say that they must actually be in the forefront to ensure that the constitution itself is upheld.

Speaking Wednesday, First Vice President Constantino Chiwenga did not comment on Mohadis collapse but said Zimbabwe respects all human rights and freedoms.

Chiwenga made his comments at a rally against sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe in the early 2000s by the United States and the European Union on grounds of election rigging and human rights abuses.
Emily Ratajkowski has been spotted passionately kissing actor and comic Stephane Bak.

The supermodel, 32, has recently dated Pete Davidson, artist Jack Greer, Harry Styles, Eric Andre and DJ Orazio Rispo since her 2022 split from husband Sebastian Bear-McClard, and has now been seen looking smitten with French star Stephane, 27, as they had a smooch on the streets of Paris while holding glasses of wine.

Stephane was also seen grabbing Emilys bum during their kissing session.

The actor found fame in 2012 aged 16 as the youngest comedian in France, and is also renowned for being expelled from high school in 2011 and later authorised by the French Department of Social Affairs to start working at the age of 14  which sparked his comedy career.

He has appeared in films including Alone, and RoboCop director Paul Verhoevens controversial rape revenge drama Elle alongside Isabelle Huppert.

Hes also appeared in Wes Andersons Asteroid City as a student alongside stars including Scarlett Johansson and Tom Hanks.

Emily, who has two-year-old son Sylvester Apollo with her estranged husband, filed for divorce from him in September 2022 after four years of marriage amid claims he cheated on the model.

She married the actor and producer in 2018 in New York.

Emily told earlier this year how her anxiety doesnt hit her so much anymore.

She told the LA Times: I dont even feel my heart rate go up in the way that I used to.

The anxiety doesnt hit me so much, because Im very clear on how I see the world and what the truth is.

Emily also said one of her recent dates told her she was stoic in the face of adversity.

But Emily added: I think of myself as extremely tender. Im like, Have I been hardened?

I think Im just a little less scared now, basically, of the world. So maybe that comes off as unemotional.

Emily also told how she has learned to tell men no, and voice her dislikes, but admitted: I think a part of me is still scared of men.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Bin)

BISHKEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- China stands ready to strengthen communication and coordination with Iran within the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), BRICS and other multilateral mechanisms, practice true multilateralism, and safeguard the common interests of developing countries, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here Thursday.

Li made the remarks when meeting with Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the SCO Member States.

Since the establishment of China-Iran diplomatic ties more than 50 years ago, bilateral relations have withstood the test of the fluctuating international situation and made steady progress, said Li, noting that President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi met twice this year and reached a series of important consensuses.

Li added that China is ready to work with Iran to implement the important consensuses reached by the two heads of state, enrich the connotation of the China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership and bring more benefits to the two peoples.

China will continue to firmly support Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national dignity, and will strongly oppose any external forces interfering in Iran's internal affairs, he stressed.

The two sides should implement the comprehensive cooperation plan between the two countries, promote the Belt and Road cooperation, strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields and cultural and people-to-people exchanges in such areas as education, culture, tourism and think tanks, and promote new achievements in China-Iran cooperation, Li said.

For his part, Mokhber said that China is a comprehensive strategic partner of Iran and the two countries enjoy a long history of friendship.

Iran appreciates China's assistance for its economic and social development and is firmly committed to deepening Iran-China relations, he added.

Iran is willing to work with China in the Belt and Road cooperation, strengthen connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation in various fields, deepen mutual coordination within multilateral frameworks and push for continuous and in-depth development of Iran-China relations, Mokhber said. 

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber on the sidelines of the 22nd Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Member States in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Oct. 26, 2023. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)
Photo-Illustration: Vulture

This story was originally published in 2017 and has been updated to include additional horror-movie remakes that are actually good.

There are so many try-hard reboots and hollow sequels in horror that it can be hard to remember that some legacy properties can (and should) be properly dusted off. In that spirit, Vulture has compiled a list of scary-movie remakes that are truly worth your time: thrill rides that improved upon their source material, matched wits with the classics that came before them, or, in a few cases, nobly committed to turning bad first movies into highly entertaining second efforts. From alien parasites lurking in Antarctic research facilities to girls getting picked off on sorority row, here are the horror remakes that will make you glad Hollywood took a second stab at.

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920)

The classic tale of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde was remade a handful of times at the start of the 20th century, but well refer you to the 1920 version of the movie starring John Barrymore as Dr. Henry Jekyll. The silent film was groundbreaking in its presentation of Jekylls transformation from the good doctor to the fiendish Mr. Hyde, utilizing minimal makeup and almost no effects, relying instead on Barrymores ability to contort his face to properly monstrous effect. It was a shock for cinema fans of the day, and one of the first truly great American horror films.

Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)

The original Body Snatchers came out in 1956, and it remains one of the great American horror films this day. In an incredibly impressive feat, the same can be said for the 1978 remake starring Donald Sutherland as a San Francisco man witnessing the takeover of humanity by an alien race in need of a new home planet to colonize. The performances are outstanding. The practical effects are chilling. And that final shot featuring Sutherland with his finger pointing and his mouth agape is iconic.

The Thing (1982)

While Howard Hawkss 1951 film The Thing From Another World is a great movie, John Carpenters 1982 remake is arguably the definitive adaptation of John W. Campbell Jr.s novella, Who Goes There? Kurt Russell stars as R.J. MacReady, a helicopter pilot at an Antarctic research station thats about to be laid to waste by an extraterrestrial parasite that infiltrates host bodies and imitates their traits. The slowly building paranoia that turns the Antarctic group against one another still holds up, and the groundbreaking VFX continue to provoke a sort of visceral terror.

Stream on Peacock

The Fly (1986)

How do you top one of the great science-fiction horror films of all time, especially one starring the incomparable Vincent Price? You tap David Cronenberg to direct your remake and cast the just-as-incomparable Jeff Goldblum. The 1986 Fly focuses on a brilliant scientist who slowly morphs into a man-fly hybrid after a teleportation experiment goes terribly awry, and it showcases one of the most truly disturbing feats of practical effects in all of movie history. That part is no surprise, considering Cronenberg is the undisputed king of gruesome screen transformations (see: Videodrome, Scanners, Naked Lunch, The Brood, and so on), but the emotional weight that Goldblum and his co-star Geena Davis bring to the relationship between Seth Brundle and Veronica Quaife sets the physical horror up to be so very devastating in the end. Be afraid. Be very afraid.

Stream on Max

Cape Fear (1991)

Even more crazy than the twisted reality of Cape Fear is the fact that it was a Spielberg movie before it landed in the much more logical hands of Martin Scorseses. Max Cady, played by Robert Mitchum in the original, is a convict who spent his years in jail obsessing over how he would get revenge on the lawyer who manipulated evidence to ensure his guilty verdict. For the 1991 update, Robert De Niro turns the terror up even higher for his take on Cady, and Scorsese puts out a bare-knuckle thriller thats pulpier than almost anything else in his repertoire. The entire cast is hitting the gas alongside De Niro in this Cape Fear. Jessica Lange, Nick Nolte, and young Juliette Lewis all end up circling the drain thanks to Cadys manipulations and attacks. Its as uncomfortable as it is harrowing.

Rent on Prime Video

The Ring (2002)

This Gore Verbinski remake of the 1998 Japanese classic may just be the scariest PG-13 movie of all time. Naomi Watts stars as a Seattle journalist whose niece dies after watching a mysterious tape. After she and her son both watch the same tape, Wattss character has one week to find out what happened to the creepy little girl from the home movie  and how to keep herself and her son from falling victim to her curse. This stylish and disturbing winner may have opened the floodgates for a wave of lesser American attempts at bringing J-horror home (The Grudge, Dark Water, Pulse, etc.), but The Ring lives on as a triumphant adaptation.

Stream on Paramount+

The Amityville Horror (2005)

Another one from the Its the 2000s, so lets reboot all the classics! phase, The Amityville Horror is a respectable remake of the famous original from 1979. It tells the story of the Lutz family, a husband, wife, and daughter who move into a grand home in the woods where a man once murdered his entire family. The trauma of that heinous crime has infected the home in Amityville, and as the past surfaces, the new inhabitants are tormented. Like we said before, the years of music-video horror were great for putting attractive people in extreme duress, but Amityville became the example nonpareil, with star Ryan Reynolds showing off his iconic shirtless in pajama pants look. The movie mostly came and went, but its possible that naked torso Reynolds chopping wood and wearing those barely hanging on PJ bottoms launched his career as we know it today.

Rent on Prime Video

Halloween (2007)

There are eight movies in the original Halloween universe, starting with John Carpenters classic first film in 1978 and ending with Halloween: Resurrection in 2002. Instead of trying to elbow in and make number nine, director Rob Zombie chose instead to start from scratch. He reinvented the origin story of Michael Myers with his signature trash-horror style, but without taking it into full blown House of 1,000 Corpses territory. Everything in this reboot is a little more intense, a little more uncomfortable, and a lot more metal, as we get a closer look at Michaels time in psychiatric care as well as his murderously arrested development. Its also got Malcolm McDowell, which should tip you off to exactly how fucked up this movie is going to be.

Stream on Peacock

Quarantine (2008)

The Spanish horror film [REC] is a found-footage zombie movie from 2007 that spawned three sequels and this American remake. And even though the Stateside version didnt kick off its own franchise, this tight, terrifying tale of an outbreak contained within an apartment building is one hell of a stressful good time. Quarantine accomplishes exactly what a great found-footage movie should: It makes you forget what youre watching is fake, and the frenetic, panicked pace is able to sustain an awful kind of tension throughout the duration of the film. When youre under quarantine, no one is coming to save you.

Stream on AMC+

Let Me In (2009)

Based on the Swedish movie Let the Right One In from 2008, Let Me In could have easily become of those American remakes that just didnt get the original tone and traded in Scandinavian restraint for homegrown gratuitous violence. But it didnt  instead, it became an early preview of the coming art-house horror renaissance were experiencing today. Before taking over the revived Planet of the Apes franchise or assuming the controls of the next Batman, director Matt Reeves delivered this quiet, modern vampire tale that doubles as an adolescent love story. Its tender, tense, and a fantastic update to the deeply entrenched vampire narrative thats been around longer than horror movies themselves.

Stream on Max

Sorority Row (2009)

Most of the movies on this list had to accomplish the tall task of meeting or exceeding the quality of an excellent original film. Sorority Row, on the other hand, is a modernized take on one of the worst slashers youre likely to see. 1983s The House on Sorority Row is classic terrible horror, so low-budget that a boom mic drops into the frame of a shot near the beginning. And even though Sorority Row isnt great, it is a truly great time, the best of the aughts-era remake fever that brought forth stylized, sexy versions of crucial films like Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Black Christmas, and Nightmare on Elm Street. Its got one of those ridiculous ensemble casts that feels like names were pulled from a bin marked Trending!: Jamie Chung, Audrina Patridge, and Rumer Willis play sorority sisters starring, inexplicably, alongside a shotgun-toting Carrie Fisher, who plays the acerbic house mother. There is no greater good in Sorority Row, but there is a girl with the nickname Chugs and a foam party.

Stream on Max

The Crazies (2010)

Anyone whos seen even one episode of Justified knows that Timothy Olyphant was born to play a small-town lawman. And just before he put on the signature Raylan Givens hat in 2010, he was local sheriff David Dutten of Ogden Marsh, Iowa, a small town on the brink of oblivion after the inhabitants contract a virus through the water supply that turns them into savage killers. The 1973 version of Crazies is a just-okay movie from legendary director George A. Romero, but the 2010 take is a perfectly gory white-knuckler thats got Olyphants likability as an X-factor that raises its game. Romero executive-produced this updated take on his work, and it did right by his legacy.

Rent on Prime Video

Rape-revenge movies are largely a relic of horrors exploitation era. Movies like Ms. 45, Act of Vengeance, and the original I Spit on Your Grave from 1978 were a kind of dirty power grab for women, a cinematic fuck you for the constant persecution they endured in genre films and in real life, too. No matter the decade, though, I Spit on Your Grave is a hard movie to get through, as it follows a woman who is repeatedly raped by a group of disgusting townies, prompting her to seek backwoods justice. The 2010 remake serves up a modern amount of blood-lusting revenge for its heroine  and her proxies in the audience  to get righteously worked up about, if youre into that sort of thing.

Stream on Tubi

Piranha 3D (2010)

Joe Dante of Gremlins fame directed the 1978 version of this movie, in which flesh-eating piranhas are released into the rivers of a popular summer-vacation destination. Alexandre Aja, the mad mind behind New French Extremity exhibit A, High Tension, directed this gonzo horror comedy that follows the same premise, except in an Arizona lake town right before spring break. It stars Elisabeth Shue, Adam Scott, Ving Rhames, Jessica Szohr, Christopher Lloyd, Richard Dreyfuss, Dina Meyer, Eli Roth, and Jerry OConnell as a Girls Gone Wildstyle pornographer. Piranha 3D is totally ridiculous and totally fun.

Has there ever been a vampire with a less-intimidating name than Jerry Dandridge? Both the original movie from 1985 and the 2011 remake focus on a teenage boy who discovers that his sexy, charismatic neighbor Jerry is actually a demon bloodsucker that he must kill if he wants to protect his neighborhood and his family. The strength of the newer version is its star, Anton Yelchin, whose too-short life and career were defined by quirky roles that ascended thanks to his odd, undeniable charm. Colin Farrell is excellent as an update for Chris Sarandons original Jerry, and the supporting cast is rounded out with Dave Franco, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Imogen Poots, David Tennant, and Toni Collette.

Stream on Tubi

Silent House (2011)

This remake of the 2010 Uruguayan film La casa muda did not get a great reception when it debuted, and that is, frankly, an injustice. Elizabeth Olsen stars in this incredibly claustrophobic haunted-house thriller about a young girl named Sarah whos fixing up an old house with her father and uncle. After a series of strange sounds prompts Olsens character to try and flee, she finds she has been fully trapped inside the house, with the doors all locked and windows boarded up. As Sarah works her way through the house trying to evade capture by an unknown assailant, she experiences time jumps, witnessing past events in the house playing out before her. The head-swivel camera movement keeps you constantly terrified about what lies outside the frame, and the collapsing timelines lead Sarah to a terrible revelation.

Stream on Max

Evil Dead (2013)

If this remake of The Evil Dead had tried to recapture the campy tone of the beloved original, theres a good chance it would have fallen flat. Instead, Uruguayan director Fede Alvarez pumped the concept full of steroids and turned it into a bloody, outright horror film. In the Sam Raimi original from 1981, a group of friends set out for a happy-go-lucky weekend in a secluded cabin, where Ash (Bruce Campbell) accidentally summons the dead by reading from the dreaded Necronomicon. In the reboot, a group of friends are gathered to help Mia (Jane Levy) kick her heroin habit once and for all  but that same book of the dead is still sitting around, just waiting to be discovered by the wrong person. This movie isnt silly  its dark and grotesque  but Alvarez makes sure its still one hell of an aggressive good time.

Stream on Hulu

We Are What We Are (2013)

The original Mexican version of this movie, 2010s Somos lo que hay, is good. The 2013 American remake is better. The movie revolves around a strange family living on the outskirts of a small town; after the death of the mother, Emma, her two daughters must step up and help their father carry out a dark family ritual thats persisted through generations. To say more would ruin the surprise, but this dark American gothic is like The Witch in its presentation of the family versus the self, of tradition versus autonomy, all playing out on a rural homestead. Bill Sage is an ominous, commanding presence as the Parker patriarch Frank, and Julia Garner and Ambyr Childers beguile as his fair-haired daughters who are coming into maturity just as they must decide whether to walk the path of their ancestors, or to set out on their own. Brace yourself for a truly special final scene.

Rent on Prime Video

The Town That Dreaded Sundown (2014)

Even though the remake of The Town That Dreaded Sundown came out in 2014, it has a distinctly aughts horror feel, which is totally a compliment. And while a lot of movies of that era of remakes fell flat among critics (wrongly!), this one actually racked up a solid approval rating. To take some horrible nomenclature from the new Scream movies, this Sundown is like a requel; it was originally conceived as a remake but went on to add sequelized elements. At one point, the characters in the movie actually watch the 1976 original, about a murderer named the Phantom Killer who carved a bloody swath through their town, Texarkana, decades earlier. In the 2014 version, the Phantom has returned and the results are stylish and scary and contain kills that hit like hammers. It also doesnt waste any time, clocking in at a slight 84 minutes. Youre welcome.

Stream on Prime Video

Suspiria (2017)

Dario Argento traditionalists might scoff at Luca Guadagninos considerably more muted color palette for his 2017 Suspiria remake, but this movie thrives entirely as its own gruesome beast. This is not a resurrection of giallo black-gloved killers and sets soaked in vibrant primary colors. The 2017 Suspiria is a three-hour odyssey into tightly woven female relationships that create an insular hive of dancers and witches living against the backdrop of political unrest in 70s Berlin  and everyone is in earth tones this time around! Dakota Johnson plays a mystically inclined Suzy Bannion, and shes sparring with earthbound extraterrestrial Tilda Swinton as the Tanz Akademies top instructor, Madame Blanc. This movie is fabulous coats, furious choreography, and some shocking body horror. Dont make your originals too precious. Check out this art-house horror epic.

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Hellraiser (2022)

Hulus new Hellraiser lacks the psychosexual queerness of Clive Barkers original, but its a beautiful slasher version of the horror legends classic tale. Watching this movie is all about showing up for the Cenobites. Those who fear the creep of CGI effects into film need not worry because these hell demons were all handcrafted and shot in-camera. The gore is stunning. The Hell Priest and all their friends are works of art, and while the movie may not achieve classic status like its forebearer, its ending should make Barker proud. Behold the Leviathan!

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COPENHAGEN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Health ministers and delegates from the World Health Organization's (WHO) European Region on Thursday endorsed a new "practical and adaptable" roadmap for action on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), according to a press release from the WHO Regional Office for Europe here.

Adopted during the 73rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, the new roadmap aims to double down with "swift action to avert a disastrous outcome" from the increasing threat of AMR.

AMR, according to the WHO, poses a significant threat to both human and animal health worldwide and the misuse and overuse of antimicrobial medications, meanwhile, accelerate AMR.

The roadmap advocates interventions ranging from traditional measures, such as improving hygiene and vaccination, to using whole genome sampling to improve environmental surveillance.

Robb Butler, director of WHO Europe's Division of Communicable Diseases, Environment and Health, underscored the critical need to combat AMR, a phenomenon frequently referred to as the "silent pandemic."

"The road ahead is not an easy one, but we are ready to move forward as one region, guided by the new AMR regional roadmap, working towards our vision that by 2030, people and animals will be safer from hard-to-treat resistant infections and will benefit from healthier environments." 
You dont want Joe Budden to prove you wrong  Photo: Denise Truscello/Getty Images for iHeartRadio

Put this on the next Rumor Report: Cesar Pina, a business associate of Breakfast Club co-host DJ Envy, was arrested on October 18 for his alleged role in a real-estate Ponzi scheme. Pina had flipped houses with DJ Envy in New Jersey and often guested on the Breakfast Club as Flipping NJ. Now, federal prosecutors claim Pina defrauded dozens of people of millions of dollars, charging him with one count of wire fraud. The same day Pina was charged, NBC 4 New York reported that the New York office of iHeartRadio, where the Breakfast Club records, was raided by federal officials, who took electronics. DJ Envy, born RaaShaun Casey, has yet to face charges, but the federal complaint against Pina does mention a well-known disc jockey and radio personality who isnt too hard to identify. So whats going on here?

What was the scheme?

Prosecutors claim that beginning in 2017, Cesar Pina began taking investments to renovate and resell properties in New Jersey and elsewhere, promising a 20 to 45 percent return on investment in five months. But Pina allegedly siphoned some investments for his personal use and used new investments to pay back old investors. Days before Pina was charged, NBC 4 New York reported on multiple investors who hadnt received promised payments from the project. Pina reportedly sought investments in properties he didnt own, scammed multiple investors into paying for the same properties, and, in one case, offered to pay an investor back in jewelry. Pina and his wife, Jennifer, are now facing at least 20 lawsuits.

Okay, but was DJ Envy involved?

Prosecutors claim Pina built credibility by holding real-estate seminars with DJ Envy before he began the alleged flipping scheme. Envy often promoted the project on the Breakfast Club, claiming theyve helped so many people. And many of the spurned investors who spoke to NBC 4 said they got involved with the project because of Envys co-sign  like Augie Rios, whos done auto wraps for multiple of Envys cars, and Anthony Martini, a producer who knew Envy. Billboard reported that Envy is a co-defendant in nine of the lawsuits against Pina.

During an Instagram livestream, Pina said DJ Envy was never in the room with him during whatever allegedly went down. DJ Envy has nothing to do with any of these 20 lawsuits of these people who are suing me, Pina said (per Billboard). It fucking sucks, bro. It pisses me off that all these people are bashing DJ Envy. But then Pina said of Envy Hes not a victim. He was my partner, he was an investor. This is why you shouldnt do livestreams during the discovery phase of multiple lawsuits.

So what has DJ Envy said about it?

After the NBC 4 investigation, Envy claimed on the Breakfast Club that its totally not true that he was involved in the Ponzi scheme. Cesar, if he took money, I wasnt privy to it, nor did I even know, he said, prefacing that his attorneys dont want me to speak, but I think theres things that I need to clear up a little bit. (I think you need to listen to your attorneys, co-host Charlamagne tha God responded.) Envy additionally claimed that he also gave Pina money that he didnt get back.

Envys attorney made a similar statement to NBC 4, saying Envy was a victim of Pina after investing $500,000 into a flip in Paterson, New Jersey. That attorney, Massimo DAngelo, has been seeking to dismiss him from the lawsuits, writing in a recent filing that being named caused significant damage to Mr. Caseys reputation and businesses. Envy is also suing TonytheCloser, an Instagram influencer who posted prolifically about the alleged Ponzi scheme earlier this year, for defamation and other claims. After Pinas arrest, DAngelo once again denied Envys involvement, telling NBC 4, Any reference to my clients involvement in the purported scheme is solely for purposes of sensationalizing the case because of his celebrity status.

What happens next?

Since his arrest, Pina has been released on a $1 million bond; he is currently not allowed to leave New Jersey. If convicted on the wire-fraud charge, he could face up to 20 years in prison and substantial fines. As for the money, two of Pinas companies have filed for bankruptcy earlier this year and his wife has also unsuccessfully attempted to do so. A judge has ruled to appoint a trustee in both bankruptcy cases to settle debts to investors. This will soon become the proverbial race to the courthouse to seize whatever assets remain of the Pinas and their entities, one attorney, representing two victims, told Billboard. Its unclear what will come of the iHeartRadio office raid.

So no one told Envy this sounded shady?

Actually, someone did: Joe Budden. On an episode of the Kitchen Talk podcast from October 2021, Envy says he called Budden for advice when he got into real estate, and the podcast host told me it was a Ponzi scheme and I was going to jail. Budden later recalled the conversation on his own podcast, saying Envys proposed project just sounded fishy.
Photo: Apple TV

Martin Scorseses Killers of the Flower Moon, based on David Granns 2007 book of the same name, tells the true story of the Osage Nation and the crimes committed against their people in 1920s Oklahoma. Scorseses goal in telling the story was to refocus the narrative on the Osage themselves, rather than the early days of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Despite having an endorsement from Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear of the Osage Nation, the film, in its second week of release and trailing closely behind Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, is beginning to widen into a bigger and deeper conversation about, as Chief Standing Bear calls it, challenging history.

Devery Jacobs, who starred in Hulus acclaimed Reservation Dogs, critiqued the film, calling it painful, grueling, unrelenting and unnecessarily graphic. Jacobs, who is a Native actress from Canada and activist, shared strong feelings in a Twitter thread on October 23. I dont feel that these very real people were shown honor or dignity in the horrific portrayal of their deaths, she wrote. Contrarily, I believe that by showing more murdered Native women on screen, it normalizes the violence committed against us and further dehumanizes our people.

Indig ppl exist beyond our grief, trauma & atrocities, she said. Our pride for being Native, our languages, cultures, joy & love are way more interesting & humanizing than showing the horrors white men inflicted on us.

In a statement from October 20, Chief Standing Bear said the atrocities laid bare the truth. Killers of the Flower Moon is an Osage story of trust and betrayal as directed by Martin Scorsese, Standing Bear in a statement. While watching, you need to know that this is a true story. Many Osage lives were lost, and whole family trees were forever altered. The film lays bare the truth and injustices done to us, while challenging history not to be repeated. We honor our ancestors who endured this time by continuing to survive and ensuring our future, guided by our Wahzhazhe culture and traditions.

Gianna Sieke, an Osage Nation princess from 2021 to 2023 who worked on the film, discussed the difficulty of the history portrayed with Today. It does tell our dark history, but its also including things that no one really knows, and it hasnt been expressed to Osage people and anyone because its a dark history, Sieke said. People dont really talk about it that much. And because of that, [the movie] has made a really big impact. Families are learning to cope and understand. Regarding a scene in which Mollie Burkhart (Lily Gladstone) learns about a family tragedy, Osage Nation Congress member Brandy Lemon, who worked as a liaison between the film and the Osage community, told Today she still wasnt ready for it. It just hit me in the gut so hard, and every time I watch it, it still does, she said.

Another point of discussion became Scorseses choice to make Ernest Burkhart, a white man who committed the films central crimes played by Leonardo DiCaprio, the main character. Christopher Cote, an Osage language consultant on the film, told The Hollywood Reporter on October 19 that Martin Scorsese, not being Osage, I think he did a great job representing our people, but this history is being told almost from the perspective of Ernest Burkhart  they kind of give him this conscience and kind of depict that theres love, he said at the films Los Angeles premiere. But when somebody conspires to murder your entire family, thats not love. Thats not love, thats just beyond abuse.

I think in the end, the question that you can be left with is: How long will you be complacent with racism? Cote said. How long will you go along with something and not say something, not speak up, how long will you be complacent? I think thats because this film isnt made for an Osage audience: It was made for everybody, not Osage. For those that have been disenfranchised, they can relate; but for other countries that have their acts and their history of oppression, this is an opportunity for them to ask themselves this question of morality, and thats how I feel about this film.
Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng speaks at the China-U.S. Sustainable Agricultural Trade Forum & Contract Signing Ceremony in Des Moines, Iowa, the United States, on Oct. 23, 2023. (Xinhua/Liu Jie)

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- To deepen agricultural cooperation with China, the United States should stop politicizing economic issues or overstretching the concept of security, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng has said, in response to Arkansas' recent order requiring Chinese company Syngenta to sell farmland in the state.

At the China-U.S. Sustainable Agricultural Trade Forum & Contract Signing Ceremony held in Des Moines, the capital of Iowa on Monday, the Chinese ambassador pointed out that recently, a top international agriculture company was ordered by a U.S. state to sell the farmland it had owned for 35 years.

The company has employed 4,000 Americans, and has been serving American farmers with advanced agritech across over 40 states. Annually it provides a salary of about 510 million U.S. dollars and purchases 2 billion dollars worth of goods and services. Over the past 53 years of its operation in the United States, never has it posed any national security risk. But now, it is subject to unreasonable suppression simply because it was bought by a Chinese company six years ago, Xie said.

"Just imagine: if such discrimination and unfair treatment happens to an American company investing elsewhere, which risks getting kicked out anytime in disregard of the contract, how would the U.S. government and people feel? Is there any basic respect for the spirit of contract, market rules and fair play?" Xie asked.

The Chinese ambassador noted that China and the United States are facing serious difficulties and challenges in bilateral relations. "To deepen agricultural cooperation, we need to say no to attempts to politicize economic issues or overstretch the concept of security."

Xie said that about 800 million people around the world are still living in hunger, and global food security is facing grave and complex challenges.

"Agricultural cooperation between us will not only bring more food choices to our peoples' tables and more income into farmers' pockets, but also enable us to combat common challenges such as global food security with advanced agritech for the benefit of the entire humanity," he said. 
BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- World-renowned U.S. political scientist Joseph Nye said it's "misleading" to say that China and the United States are entering a new Cold War, as the two countries have great economic, social and ecological interdependence.

Addressing a recent think tank forum in Beijing, Nye, Harvard University's distinguished service professor, emeritus and former dean of the Kennedy School of Government, stressed that China and the United States are much more closely linked than the United States and the former Soviet Union during the Cold War.

"I think the metaphor of the Cold War misleads us," Nye said. "If you look back at the real Cold War, you'll notice there was military interdependence between the United States and the Soviet Union, but almost no economic interdependence and very little social interaction."

"Whereas if you look at the relationship between the United States and China today, there's enormous economic interdependence, and there's also social interdependence," he added.

Nye spoke at the 8th China Global Think Tank Innovation Forum, jointly held by the Center for China and Globalization and the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries.

The professor cited what he called "ecological interdependence" concerning issues like pandemics and climate change, "which were not major problems during the real Cold War."

As the world faces a rise in transnational threats, the stakes are higher for China and the United States to cooperate, according to Nye.

"We have to think of how do we reconcile both competition and cooperation at the same time. Because if we fail to do that, we're going to all suffer, not just the United States and China, but the world climate and the world economy," Nye warned.

Nye listed global pandemics, climate change, proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the application of Artificial Intelligence to military affairs as common issues that both countries must deal with together.

To better cooperate, Nye hinted that the two countries need to work on a more equal footing.

"The idea that we have to cooperate on climate change strikes me as another example of 'power with' rather than 'power over,'" Nye said. 
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More airstrikes have ravaged swaths of the Gaza Strip, and residents are running out of food, water and other supplies. The bombardment continued as the Israeli military said its troops and tanks briefly entered northern Gaza to prepare for a full-scale incursion, the Israeli raid since the war began more than two weeks ago.

Meanwhile the U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, according to the Pentagon.

A senior Hamas official told The Associated Press that the Palestinian militant group needs greater intervention from its allies, including Iran-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, in its war with Israel.

The war, now in its 20th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry said Thursday that more than 7,000 Palestinians have been killed so far  more than three times the number killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed in violence and Israeli raids following Hamas surprise rampage on Oct. 7 in southern Israel.

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The Associated Press couldnt independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas attack. Israels military has raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released so far.

Currently:

Heres whats happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

The U.S. military launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said.

The strikes come in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

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The U.S. wants to hit Iranian-backed groups suspected of targeting the U.S. to deter future aggression, possibly fueled by Israels war against Hamas, while also working to avoid inflaming the region and provoking a wider conflict.

An explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba on the border with Israel, wounding five people, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday.

The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip  A cloud of grey dust fills a street as men and ambulances rush to the site of an Israeli airstrike. An AP videojournalist sprints beside them, the chaos growing more intense as they draw closer to the destroyed residence.

Dozens of people pick their way across the remains of the building, which has been reduced to a jumble of concrete and metal. They scramble to pull the living and the dead from the wreckage.

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A survivor, his face chalk-white with dust and eyes wide open, is carried in a blanket to a waiting ambulance. A woman who can still walk is led away from the blast area, with a man throwing a blanket over her shoulders. Wheres the ambulance? someone yells.

Israeli airstrikes on Thursday hit a densely populated refugee camp in Gazas southern city of Khan Younis, leveling more than eight homes belonging to the extended Abu Shamala family and killing at least 15 people.

WASHINGTON  The Pentagon said Thursday that there was an attempted attack at Irbil air base in Iraq but there were no casualties and only minor damage to the facilities.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon press secretary, declined to detail which Iranian-backed groups may be responsible for the recent spate of attacks at bases in Iraq and Syria.

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He said there have been at least 12 attacks in Iraq and four in Syria, and 21 U.S. personnel sustained minor injuries in two separate attacks early last week. Of those, 19 had some type of traumatic brain injury, and all 21 returned to duty.

There have been no reported injuries since those two attacks on Oct. 17-18.

ANAHEIM, Calif.  Family members of six American citizens trapped in Gaza pleaded Thursday for President Joe Biden to help their relatives get out from what started as a long-awaited vacation and turned into a horrific nightmare of bombardments and smoke.

Shamiss Kaoud, 33, of Moreno Valley, California, said she and her sister have been calling the U.S. State Department daily to try to get her 68-year-old father, Jamal, his four brothers and one of her cousins evacuated from the war zone.

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No one is listening. No one is helping. Its as if nobody cares, she told reporters at a press conference in Anaheim, California. Shouldnt being a U.S. citizen matter?

The group traveled to Gaza in late September to visit family and has since gone three times to Gazas Rafah crossing but been unable to get out.

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Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in greater Los Angeles, said the State Department has estimated 600 Palestinian Americans are stuck in Gaza.

The life of every citizen in America should be the priority of our government, he said.

WASHINGTON  A White House spokesman said Thursday that the United States would respond at a time of our choosing and a manner of our choosing to a recent spate of attacks said to have been carried out by Iranian-backed groups against U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East.

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The blunt warning from White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby came a day after President Joe Biden said Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been directly warned that the U.S. would respond if Iran or its proxies continued to attack U.S. troops. Attacks on U.S. troops in the region have increased since the start of the Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.

Asked on Thursday to provide further details on how that message was delivered to Khamenei, Kirby declined to elaborate.

BAGHDAD  An Iranian-backed militia says it carried out an attack Thursday with two suicide drones against a base housing U.S. troops in northern Iraq.

The Islamic Resistance, an umbrella group for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it attacked the American occupation base near the airport of the city of Irbil with two drones that directly hit their targets.

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It gave no further details.

The past week has seen more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria. Most were claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against U.S. backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

NICOSIA, Cyprus  Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides says the island nation is ready to act as a hub for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

Christodoulides told reporters in Brussels on Thursday that he proposed to fellow European Union leaders the establishment of a humanitarian aid corridor linking Cyprus main port of Limassol to Gaza. The Cypriot president said he discussed the idea with both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

Government spokesman Constantinos Letymbiotis told The Associated Press that EU leaders showed interest in the proposal.

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PARIS  The absence of more than 200 people held hostage by Hamas is being felt  and seen  in places around the world.

Thirty empty baby strollers were displayed on a lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower on Thursday, each with a photo of one of the children being held. Two hundred empty plastic chairs were also lined up outside the United Nations European headquarters in Geneva with photos of the missing.

Family members and Jewish groups are keeping the spotlight on the people taken captive by Hamas militants Oct. 7 as Israel continues to pound the Gaza Strip with airstrikes and prepares for a ground invasion.

Our goal is to  raise the level of public awareness regarding the situation of these children, Yonathan Arfi, president of the Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France, said of the Eiffel Tower display. It is not acceptable to have hostages, and it is even more unacceptable to have children hostages.

Arfis group also arranged empty baby carriages in the French coastal cities of Nice and Marseille.

A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

Demonstrators and family members of hostages taken from the kibbutz Kfar Azza called Thursday for their release in a street protest in Tel Aviv.

A poster said 62 people from the kibbutz had been slain, 17 were kidnapped and one was missing. Hundreds more were wounded.

I want my brother back, said Ido Shamriz, brother of Alon Shamriz. I want him (back) now. Bring all the kidnapped people now to Israel, now.

UNITED NATIONS  Irans foreign minister says Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel and is stressing that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the U.N. General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavor, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Iran is a key backer of Hamas, and Qatar has already played a key role in the release of four Israeli civilians, among the more than 200 taken captive.

Amirabdollahian accused the United States of directly participating in the Israeli-Hamas war and what he called a genocide against Palestinians.

He also issued a strong warning against the uncontrollable consequences of the unlimited financial, arms and operational support by the White House to the Tel Aviv regime.

I say frankly to the American statesman, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome to expansion of the war in the region, Irans top diplomat said in English at the start of his remarks.

But I warn, if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, Amirabdollahian said. It is our home, and west Asia is our region. We do not compromise with any party and any side, and we have no reservation when it comes to our home security.

MOSCOW  A senior Iranian diplomat discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip with a Kremlin Mideast envoy Thursday.

Irans Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri met with Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, who serves as the Kremlin envoy for the Middle East.

The Russian Foreign Ministry said diplomats emphasized the need for a cessation of hostilities in and around the Gaza Strip and the prompt provision of humanitarian assistance to the affected Palestinian population.

It added that they also reaffirmed a shared commitment by Moscow and Tehran to continue close coordination of efforts in the interests of stabilizing the situation in the Middle East.
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BUDAPEST, Hungary  The Hungarian parliament on Tuesday refused a proposal to hold a vote on Swedens bid to join NATO, further delaying the Nordic countrys inclusion in the military alliance. Hungary is the main hurdle to Swedens admission into NATO after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted a protocol to Turkeys parliament on Monday to approve its admission. All 31 allies must endorse the accession.

The governing Fidesz party  led by populist Prime Minister Viktor Orban who is widely considered one of Russian President Vladimir Putins only allies in the EU  which holds an absolute majority in the Hungarian parliament, has stalled Sweden's bid since July 2022, alleging that Swedish politicians have told blatant lies about the condition of Hungarys democracy.

Fidesz lawmakers blocked the Tuesday proposal to schedule a vote, according to Agnes Vadai, a lawmaker with Hungarys opposition Democratic Coalition party and a former secretary of state in the Ministry of Defense.

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The next possible time to vote on the ratification will be during the parliamentary session beginning Nov. 6, she said.

Hungarian officials have said repeatedly that their country will not be the last member to endorse Swedens bid, but Ankaras move toward ratification suggests that the time for further holdups may be running out.

The delays have frustrated other NATO allies, who were swift in accepting Sweden and Finland into the alliance after the neighboring countries dropped their longstanding military neutrality after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Hungary has always seemed to follow Turkeys lead when it came to NATO expansion. After multiple delays in ratifying Finlands NATO bid, Hungarys parliament swiftly passed the measure in March, immediately after Erdogan indicated his government would move forward on the ratification.

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However, speaking from New York before a meeting of the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday, Hungarys Foreign Minister, Peter Szijjarto, said the ratification process by Turkeys parliament does not change anything, and that Hungarian lawmakers will make a sovereign decision on this issue.

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Last month, Orban said that Hungary was in no rush to ratify Swedens accession, and a senior Fidesz lawmaker said he saw little chance that parliament would vote on the matter this year.

The press office of the Fidesz party did not respond to a request for comment by The Associated Press.

Erdogan has delayed ratification of Swedens membership over accusations that Stockholm of being too soft on Kurdish militants and other groups his country considers to be security threats. But Hungary, on the other hand, has expressed no such concrete concerns.

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While Erdogans decision to submit ratification protocols to Turkeys parliament brought Sweden closer than ever to joining NATO, it was still unknown when an actual vote would go to the floor.

Some opposition politicians in Hungary  who have argued for immediate approval of Swedens bid  believe that Orbans party is following Ankaras timetable. Vadai, the opposition lawmaker, said that the Hungarian ruling party is likely to act as soon as it seems clear a vote is imminent in the Turkish parliament.

In July, Szijjarto, in a news conference, said he had been in close and constant communication with his Turkish counterpart on the question of Swedens membership.

If there is movement (in Turkeys position), then of course we will keep our promise that Hungary will not delay any country in its accession, Szijjarto said at the time.

Vadai said that made it clear both countries are in constant dialogue.

What Id guess is that the two countries will ratify it, if not at the same time, then very close to each other, she said.
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The party won 42 seats in the 150-seat Parliament after campaigning on a pro-Russian and anti-American platform.

Today, you just dont take over power but naturally also responsibility for the republic and its citizens, President Zuzana Caputova told the new Cabinet.

Fico formed a parliamentary majority by signing a coalition government deal with the leftist Hlas, or Voice, party and the ultranationalist Slovak National Party.

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Hlas, led by Ficos former deputy in Smer, Peter Pellegrini, gained 27 seats. Pellegrini parted ways with Fico after the scandal-tainted Smer lost the previous election in 2020.

Pellegrini replaced Fico as prime minister after he was forced to resign following major anti-government street protests resulting from the 2018 killing of journalist Jan Kuciak and his fiancee.

The reunion of Fico and Pellegrini was key for the creation of the new government. The third partner, the Slovak National Party, is a clearly pro-Russian group; it won 10 seats in the legislature.

On behalf of the Slovak government, Id like to promise that we will be a constructive government, Fico said. You will hear a sovereign Slovak voice from the Slovak government, from the Slovak ministries.

Ficos victory may mark a dramatic turnaround in the countrys foreign policy and could strain a fragile unity in the European Union and NATO.

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He will have his first chance to present his views at a two-day summit of EU leaders in Brussels that opens on Thursday.

Slovakia, a country of 5.5 million people which shares a border with Ukraine, has until now been a staunch supporter of Kyiv since Russia invaded in February last year, donating arms and opening its borders for refugees fleeing the war.

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When he served as prime minister in 2006-2010 and again in 2012-2018, Fico had a career diplomat in the post of foreign minister.

This time, he opted for a loyalist and his deputy in Smer, Juraj Blanar, who previously served as the head of a regional government but has no experience in diplomacy.

Fico vowed to pursue a sovereign foreign policy.

He opposes EU sanctions on Russia, questions whether Ukraine can force out the invading Russian troops and wants to block Ukraine from joining NATO. He has proposed that instead of sending arms to Kyiv, the EU and the United States should use their influence to force Russia and Ukraine to strike a compromise peace deal.

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Fico has repeated Russian President Vladimir Putins claims that the Ukrainian government runs a Nazi state from which ethnic Russians in the countrys east needed protection.

The new government is yet to release its policy program but Fico already suggested it will include a tough stance against migration and non-governmental organizations that receive funding from abroad.

A number of the new ministers have been linked with disinformation campaigns or are known for spreading false news, including Culture Minister Martina Simkovicova, nominated by the Slovak National Party.

Since the previous government took power in 2020 after campaigning on an anti-corruption ticket, dozens of senior officials, police officers, judges, prosecutors, politicians and businesspeople linked to Smer have been charged and convicted of corruption and other crimes.

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Fico himself and his former Interior Minister Robert Kalinak faced criminal charges last year for creating a criminal group and misuse of power. Kalinak is the defense minister in the new government.

Known for his tirades against journalists, Fico campaigned against immigration and LGBTQ+ rights and threatened to dismiss investigators from the National Criminal Agency and the special prosecutor who deals with the most serious crimes and corruption.

Ficos critics worry that his return to power could lead Slovakia to abandon its course in other ways, following the path of Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

Besides the post of prime minister, Ficos Smer has six other Cabinet ministers. Hlas gets seven while the Slovak National Party has three.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size The camera pans across a dense jungle canopy. A chorus of screeching birds signals that we are somewhere exotic, remote, and unexplored. The serenity is interrupted by the slash of an enormous machete through a curtain of green vines. Through this verdant stage curtain emerges our hero. His perfectly proportioned face is tastefully adorned with just the right amount of rugged stubble. He wipes his brow with a gloriously tanned arm before gazing stoically at the sprawling jungle ahead. Following behind, with stumbling footsteps, is his trusty local guide. His humble features and short frame contrast with our statuesque hero. The hero turns to speak to his guide but stops when he sees the guides face, wide-eyed and trembling with fear. S-s-senor, the guide whimpers. Do not move a muscle. The hero looks confused. What on earth could have evoked such terror in his valiant friend? Slowly, a small black appendage appears over the shoulder of our hero. More legs inch forward revealing a hairy, black tarantula with menacing red stripes. Weve all seen this before, or something like it. A movie scene where even the most unflappable of heroes are frozen in fear at the sight of an exotic-looking spider. Usually, its followed with some quick exposition about how this spider is the aranha de morte, or something equally dramatic sounding, and that its venom can kill X number of assorted large mammals in a heartbeat. Tarantula (1955), the start of the tarantula monster trend. Just in case I need to state the obvious, there is no such spider, these are pure flights of fancy. It does make me ponder why these scenes always seem to feature a tarantula, as opposed to one of the other 50,000 or so species of spiders. Is it because tarantulas are so venomous that we could feasibly believe they are a deadly threat to our heroes? No, quite the opposite. Tarantulas are a Hollywood favourite because they are rather docile. If you are a moviemaker who wants a cool-looking spider to crawl across the arms of your films hero, the safest and most practical way to do this is to employ the services of a harmless tarantula. Species like the Mexican red-kneed tarantulas are a Hollywood favourite as they are easily accustomed to being handled, and if they did bite their venom is pretty benign. Sadly, the tarantulas stoic nature, and dashing good looks, have destined them to an eternity of movie monster stardom which, to me, seems an unfair burden for these shy and harmless fluffballs.

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The tarantula monster phenomenon can be traced back to the era of B-grade black-and-white horror films. Tarantula (1955) tells the story of a giant spider wreaking havoc on a small town in Arizona. The special effects, including footage of live tarantulas superimposed on miniature landscapes, were revolutionary for the time. In 1977, sci-fi megastar William Shatner starred in the cult-classic Kingdom of the Spiders, where another Arizonian small town is overrun by a plague of life-sized tarantulas. The film features numerous scenes where actors bodies are covered in live tarantulas. These scenes may only be possible when you can reassure the actors that their spider co-stars are harmless. Tiffany Bolling as Diane Ashley in Kingdom of the Spiders (1977). While tarantulas get it the worst, spiders in general get a bad rap when it comes to on-screen portrayals. The horror comedy classic Arachnophobia (1990) starred harmless huntsman spiders native to Australia. Other films feature spider-inspired fantastical beasts like the giant mutants of Eight Legged Freaks (2002), the sinister Shelob from The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003), and Aragog and her ravenous offspring from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002). Its often assumed that spiders make great villains as they tap into deep-rooted fears within our psyche. However, spider fears are not as hard-wired into our minds as we believe. Instead, these monster tropes are built upon some rather shallow myths. Ideas about why spider fears exist often evoke the nature vs. nurture debate  either spider fears are a consequence of evolution and are hardwired into our brains for survival, or they are a tenacious misconception passed on through cultural transmission. The evidence overwhelmingly points to the latter. Overall, spiders are harmless creatures and serious spider bites are rare cases of bad luck. The danger posed by spiders isnt much different from that posed by other venomous animals, like ants, bees, or scorpions. This hardly accounts for the disproportionate levels of spider-heebie-jeebies floating around society. For those whose spider fears are so significant they are classed as a phobia, treatment is straightforward and effective. Run-of-the-mill exposure therapy, plus some education about spider biology, are quick and powerful means of curing spider phobias. Our distaste for spiders is more likely based on ideas that have taken hold in society and are reinforced the more they circulate. Where these misconceptions began is unclear. We could point to the portrayals of spiders as tricksters in ancient mythology, such as the spider god Anansi of West African folklore. A myth that spiders were responsible for spreading the black plague century has also been touted as a possible source of widespread spider-disgust in the west. Wherever these myths arose, they have woven their way into our stories, and we continue to perpetuate them with on-screen portrayals of shadowy faceless monsters. Aragog and her ravenous offspring from Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002). One glaring exception to this rule is Spider-Man and the growing list of Spider-Man universe films. In these films (and the innumerable Spider-Man comics, shows, videogames etc.) spiders are the inspiration for a heroic character rather than a sinister villain. This hero is usually young, naive, do-gooding, and an all-round likeable underdog. But beyond references to silk and wall-walking, spiders dont have much to do with the Spider-Man mythology other than some web-themed costume designs and obligatory close-up shots of radioactive spider bites.

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Films that feature spiders as righteous characters are relatively rare. The Netflix animated film Back to the Outback (2021) features an ensemble of animals voiced by a slew of Aussie celebrities. Guy Pearce voices a lovelorn funnel-web spider called Frank who, along with his companions, is on a mission to shake off his fearful stereotype. In a similar vein, The Bad Guys (2022) features Ms. Tarantula, a clever computer hacker amongst an ensemble of misunderstood animal characters. Perhaps the most famous spider character in film comes from adaptations of the childrens book Charlottes Web (1952). In both the 1973 animated version and the 2006 live-action film, the titular character Charlotte is a kind and creative orb-web spider that saves the life of a pig destined for slaughter. Similarly, A Bugs Life (1998) and James and the Giant Peach (1996), both feature black widow spiders as kind maternal figures. Beyond these few examples, finding positive spider portrayals in film starts to become a treasure hunt for obscure cameos and one-liners. Does anyone remember Nails the street-smart spider from 1992s Cool World? Nope? Me neither. A Bugs Life (1998) features a black widow spider as a kind maternal figures. On one hand, spider movie monsters are all a bit of harmless fun. Im partial to B-grade monster movies myself. But on the other hand, I think relying too heavily on spiders as horror tropes is a lost opportunity and, frankly, a bit dull. Spiders are fascinating creatures, and once you peel back the veil of negative stereotypes, their complex natural history reveals a much richer trove of inspiration for storytelling. Their silk is a biomechanical wonder; it is weight-for-weight stronger than steel and more energy absorbent than bullet-proof Kevlar. Even Spider-Mans super-silk isnt too farfetched from reality. A team of bioengineers from the USA estimated the thickness of Spider-Mans silk threads from film footage and calculated that they could, hypothetically, hold the weight of a full-grown adult. Even the famous scene from Spider-Man 2 (2004), where Tobey Maguire stops a runaway train by anchoring lines of silk to nearby buildings and holding on for dear life, is theoretically possible. If you could create that many silk threads of that thickness then, yes, they could stop a moving train. Whether Maguires grip strength could hold them together is another matter entirely. The maternal spider figures of films like Charlottes Web are reminiscent of real-world spider mothers. Wolf spiders are famous for carrying entire clutches of babies around on their backs until they have grown enough to fend for themselves. Other spider mothers will provide food for their babies, with some making the ultimate sacrifice of offering up their bodies as a meal for their cannibalistic offspring. Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man. Credit: Sony Many other intriguing spider stories have yet to be celebrated on the big screen but are ready and waiting for their film debut. The technicolour courtship dances of Australian peacock spiders regularly feature in online viral videos but have yet to become Hollywood stars. Portia jumping spiders are famous for their intelligence, and they hunt other spiders by sneakily lowering themselves down on a silk thread from above, a la Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible (1996).

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Eating outBrisbane A cult Sydney Nigerian restaurant arrives in West End We had a fan base before we even came. Listen for the music on Boundary Street and get ready for spicy, hearty stews, authentic jollof rice and fragrant cocktails. Matt Shea October 24, 2023 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Little Lagos was one of the pandemics Sydney success stories. As popular as it had been during its pop-up days at Earls Juke Joint, there were concerns Ade Adeniyis then-new Nigerian restaurant wouldnt survive the NSW capitals months of lockdowns. Lekki by Little Lagos head chef Kemi Fajemisin. Morgan Roberts But Adeniyi, like many operators, managed to bounce along doing takeaway until he could reopen in earnest. These days, Little Lagos does a roaring trade on Enmore Road. Perhaps it was all because, upon opening, Little Lagos was Sydneys only dedicated Nigerian restaurant and bar  a surprise in a city with well over 3000 Nigerian-born residents.

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Turns out, it was so popular that word spread to Brisbane. We had a fan base in Brisbane before we even came here, says Kemi Fajemisin. Head chef and manager Fajemisin is chatting in the dining room of Lekki by Little Lagos, Little Lagos new sister venue in West End. I remember my first week in Brisbane, and someone asked me what were doing, and I said I was from Little Lagos in Sydney, and she said, Ive been wanting to come to Sydney for a long time. And I havent been able  this is going to be my second home. Now, shes always here. Lekki by Little Lagos dining room fills up early each evening. Morgan Roberts

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Brisbane, like Sydney before it, has lacked a go-to Nigerian restaurant (although you can find pockets of the cuisine around the city  see catering company Calabar Kitchen, for example, which has a dedicated following) and on a Thursday evening at 5pm, when this masthead visits Lekki by Little Lagos, the dining room is already half full. Weve had huge support from the Nigerian community, Fajemisin says. But also other locals, and other nationalities travelling through Brisbane. Theyre curious and when they try it, they seem to love it. Whats to love about Nigerian food? Think spicy, flavourful soups; rich curry-like stews built on onion, tomato and capsicum; fried plantains; flaky pies full of mince and onion; and jollof rice cooked in a blended sauce of tomatoes, capsicum, onions and habaneros. Its hearty and soul-warming, and like a lot of West African cuisine, tends to come served with plenty of spice.

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Theyre the kinds of flavours everyone loves, Fajemisin says. And for newcomers its friendly, its approachable. The marinated goat stew takes locally sourced goat and cooks it in a sauce of tomatoes, red capsicum, habaneros, onions and traditional Nigerian spices. Morgan Roberts Lekkis menu is split into mains, snacks, sides and desserts, with some set menu share plates that allow diners to explore a few different dishes. For mains, you might order Nigerian-style jollof rice with chicken; ewa agoyin (slow-cooked then pan-fried black-eyed beans, topped with a fried red-chilli sauce); ila alasepo (a finely minced okra soup with fish and beef); or egusi (melon seeds) simmered with herbs, spices, green leaves and beef. There are also a bunch of stews, such as a marinated beef stew cooked in a sauce of tomatoes, red capsicum, habaneros, onions and traditional Nigerian spices; a marinated goat stew that takes locally sourced goat and cooks it much the same way; or an ayamase  a traditional stew made with a sauce of locust beans, green bullhorn capsicums, habaneros, onions, Nigerian spices, fish and beef.

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Fried plantains at Lekki by Little Lagos. Morgan Roberts For snacks, there are flaky meat pies stuffed with minced beef, or chicken, potatoes and carrots; gizdodo (stir-fry of plantains, and chicken gizzards and giblets); and asun (marinated goat pieces diced with onion and chilli). For drinks, there are African beers (including Nigerian-brewed Guinness Foreign Extra Stout) and a handful of wines, but its the Nigerian-influenced cocktail list where the action is. Theres the Palm-ito (palm wine, rum, lime, scent-leaf syrup and mint), the Fela in Versace (tequila, elderflower, lime, chilli, zobo tea syrup and palm wine) and the Meia Praia (gin, coconut, pineapple, falernum and North African bitters), among a bunch of others. To find Lekki by Little Lagos, look for the Fela Kuti portrait and Nigerian flag on Boundary Street. Morgan Roberts The cocktails play nicely with the venue, which sits open to the street on Boundary, with music pumping from a hefty PA system.

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Theres not much to the fit-out other than some timber tables and bentwood chairs, a bar down one side and a banquette down the other, and a Nigerian flag and enormous portrait of Fela Kuti at the door. But that just adds to the familial, welcoming feel of the place  particularly with the large semi-open kitchen out back. The music is the first thing that attracts people, Fajemisin says. It makes them curious to check us out. The foods happening, and weve got happy hours from Tuesday to Friday, so theyll come in and immediately get what were all about. Open Tue-Fri 4pm-9pm, Sat-Sun 1pm-9pm. 132 Boundary Street, West End, (07) 3846 7298. lekkibylittlelagos.com
OTTAWA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) on Thursday issued an "armed and dangerous" alert to its personnel stationed along the Canada-U.S. border after two shootings in Lewiston, U.S. state of Maine, on Wednesday night.

In its alert, the agency asked its officers to be on the lookout for the man suspected of fatally shooting in Lewiston that killed at least 18 people and injured 13 others.

"The CBSA is aware of the tragic events in Maine. Our officers have been alerted to the high risk of this situation, and we are on the lookout with our law enforcement partners. Our thoughts are with the citizens of Maine and all those affected," the agency said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

The CBSA has said that it is working with Canadian and U.S. law enforcement partners to "protect Canada's borders against any threat or attempt at illegal entry."

The shootings took place in Lewiston, about 260 kilometres southwest of Canada's New Brunswick province.

A couple of shooting incidents occurred at around 6:56 p.m. local time on Wednesday, with multiple locations involved, Michael Sauschuck, commissioner of the Maine Department of Public Safety, confirmed late Wednesday.

U.S. police have identified Robert Card, 40, a trained firearms instructor and a member of the U.S. Army Reserves, as a "person of interest" in the two fatal shootings. Police have continued to search for Card as he has remained absconding. The suspect is considered "armed and dangerous." 
Peter Strateas and Mario-Luca Carlucci, the designers behind locally produced luxury brand Strateas Carlucci, know theyre in a small  and somewhat endangered  club.

In the same week that Melbourne-made denim brand Nobody Denim went into liquidation (the companys assets were subsequently bought by another Australian brand, Outland Denim), Carlucci says unless consumers throw more support behind local labels, there will more forced closures.

Staying homegrown  Strateas Carlucci designers Peter Strateas (left) and Mario-Luca Carlucci (right) with models, including 13-year-old Ryder Carlucci. Credit: Simon Schluter

People are more aware, they want something locally made, great quality, ethically sourced, fabrics to be organic and all of that but are they willing to make that jump with the price point? The answer is sometimes no, sadly, says Carlucci.

But, says Strateas, the team isnt getting too down about the shrinking state of local manufacturing, which had a temporary revival during the pandemic. Weve always looked at the limitations we have [of being Australian made] and find the positives in it, he says. Sometimes its influenced the way we have designed.
International conwoman Samantha Azzopardi has been arrested in Melbourne, with the serial fraudster facing fresh charges following her release from prison for posing as an abused teenager.

The 35-year-old has been accused of multiple fraud related offences alleged to have taken place in Melbourne between August 25 and October 9.

A photo from Mayer Meleckas Facebook page. Mayer was a fake identity used by serial conwoman Samantha Azzopardi. Credit: Facebook

Police arrested Azzopardi on High Street, Northcote on October 10 on allegations of deception in Dandenong, Brighton and Reservoir. The victims of the alleged crime and details of the new fraud charges are yet to be released.

Azzopardi has previously gone under the alias Mayer Melecka, using a Facebook page under the name to find au pair work in Melbourne.
Lewiston, Maine: Police searched for a US Army reservist wanted for murder after 18 people were killed and 13 were wounded in shooting attacks at a bowling alley and a bar in the city of Lewiston the previous night.

In an expanding manhunt, police fanned out across southern Maine with an arrest warrant for their main suspect, Robert R. Card, a US Army reservist who law enforcement said had been committed to a mental health facility over the summer.

They circulated photographs of a bearded man in a brown hooded sweatshirt and jeans at one of the crime scenes armed with what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle.

Police officers speak with a motorist at a roadblock in Lisbon, Maine. Credit: AP

Public school districts in the area cancelled classes and police urged residents to stay indoors.
People shop at San Francisco International Airport in San Francisco, the United States, Oct. 26, 2023. The U.S. real gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 4.9 percent in the third quarter of 2023, outpacing expectations, the Commerce Department reported on Thursday. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. real gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 4.9 percent in the third quarter of 2023, outpacing expectations, the Commerce Department reported on Thursday.

In the second quarter, real GDP increased 2.1 percent, according to the "advance" estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis.

Compared to the second quarter, the acceleration in real GDP in the third quarter reflected accelerations in consumer spending, private inventory investment, and federal government spending and upturns in exports and residential fixed investment.

These movements were partly offset by a downturn in nonresidential fixed investment and a deceleration in state and local government spending.

Personal consumption expenditures grew by 4.0 percent in the third quarter, up from 0.8 in the previous quarter. Nonresidential fixed investment, an indicator of business investment, contracted 0.1 percent in the third quarter, after surging 7.4 percent in the second quarter.

"The economy is slowing faster than recent data suggests," Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman recently said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"Once the strong Q3 GDP is behind us, and people start focusing on Q4, which is likely to be much lower, then we may start to see some talk of (rates) 'high for not much longer'," Dean Baker, senior economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, told Xinhua.

According to the International Monetary Fund's World Economic Outlook released earlier this month, the U.S. economy is projected to grow 2.1 percent in 2023, and the growth will slow to 1.5 percent in 2024.

The second estimate for the third quarter, based on more complete data, will be released on Nov. 29. 

People shop at San Francisco International Airport in San Francisco, the United States, Oct. 26, 2023. The U.S. real gross domestic product (GDP) increased at an annual rate of 4.9 percent in the third quarter of 2023, outpacing expectations, the Commerce Department reported on Thursday. (Photo by Li Jianguo/Xinhua)
Under the framework of the EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme, funded by the European Union (EU), the World Customs Organization (WCO), in partnership with Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), held a national training workshop on rules of origin in Blantyre, Malawi, from 16-20 October 2023, with the participation of Customs officials from different units and border stations within the Customs Services department.

The aim of this workshop was to support MRA in strengthening their understanding and application of preferential rules of origin. This effort is intended to smooth the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and relevant Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).

In his opening remarks, Deputy Commissioner of Customs-Facilitation, Mr. Cornelius Kakwesa, expressed gratitude to the WCO and the EU for bolstering expertise on rules of origin. He underscored the significance of these rules in international trade. Mr. Kakwesa urged participants to use this training as a platform for deepening their understanding of the rules of origin. He also highlighted that MRA is on the path to implementing Advanced Rulings.

During the workshop, participants focused on origin determination concepts and efficient management practices. The WCO facilitators introduced the Revenue Package initiatives, which are aimed at assisting Members in applying provisions of Free Trade Agreements. Challenges in implementing trade agreements and the AfCFTA status were also discussed, along with issues like certification and administrative cooperation.

The Deputy Commissioner of Customs-Facilitation officially closed the workshop reiterating the MRA's appreciation to the EU and the WCO. He encouraged participants to share the knowledge received with colleagues at their respective posts and to actively engage in the implementation of the rules of origin.

The EU-WCO Rules of Origin Africa Programme will continue its work with the MRA on enhancing Customs officials knowledge of rules of origin through capacity building for efficient implementation of free trade agreements.

For further information please contact EU-WCORoOAfrica.Program@wcoomd.org
Montenegro has joined a growing list of nations in adopting the World Customs Organization's (WCO) Cargo Targeting System (CTS) to bolster its cargo risk assessment and targeting capabilities.

The WCO CTS is an application which enables Customs to capture cargo manifest, bill of lading and air waybill data in an electronic format and analyse the collected data to identify high-risk shipments at import, export, and transshipment across the full range of Customs threats.

Traditionally, Customs risk management has been a local practice, conducted at individual ports, airports, and Customs locations. However, the advent of automation and the widespread availability of electronic trade data within the global supply chain has led to a shift in these practices. The WCO CTS aligns with this new approach, offering flexible access to critical data, enabling countries to systematically apply consistent risk indicators, generated from risk profiles and watch lists, to all cargo consignment records.

To mark the successful deployment of the WCO CTS in Montenegro, a "Train-the-Trainer" event was conducted from 9 to 12 October 2023. This event, led by the WCO and organized by the Montenegro Revenue and Customs Administration, empowered local WCO CTS users with the knowledge and skills required to maximize the functionality of the system. Moreover, it aimed to prepare these experts to educate and train others within their administration, ensuring the long-term sustainability and self-sufficiency of the project. The event also provided a platform for discussions on the seamless integration of WCO CTS into local risk management processes and the exchange of best practices in cargo risk assessment and targeting on a broader scale. Financial support for the event was generously provided by the United Kingdom Border Force.

Officers from various departments took part in this event, including the Risk Analysis and Intelligence Department, the Anti-smuggling Department, the Port Control Unit established under the UNODC WCO Container Control Programme (CCP), and the Information Systems Department, which will oversee the national-level maintenance of the application.

The implementation of the WCO CTS is a noteworthy initiative for Montenegro Customs and will contribute to enhancing its capacity to detect fraud and illicit trafficking while facilitating legal trade.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev described the opening of the 230MW Garadag Solar PV Plant as the historical moment in the country's history.

Today, we are very proud to see that in a relatively short period of time, something more than a year and a half, this empty part of Absheron Peninsula became the source of green energy. This is a remarkable achievement, said the head of state as he addressed an official inauguration of the Plant.

The head of state congratulated Masdar, its leadership for this outstanding contribution to the development of Azerbaijan and also to commitment to the country with respect to the green transition.

Noting that three ministers of the UAE government are among the guests, the President of Azerbaijan described this as a good example of partnership and friendship, adding that both countries pay big importance to today's ceremony.
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Clear to partly cloudy and not as cold as the last few nights. .

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Clear to partly cloudy and not as cold as the last few nights.
NEW YORK (AP)  A month after federal officials recommended new versions of COVID-19 vaccines, 7% of U.S. adults and 2% of children have gotten a shot.

One expert called the rates abysmal.

The numbers, presented Thursday at a meeting held by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, come from a national survey of thousands of Americans, conducted two weeks ago.

The data also indicated that nearly 40% of adults said they probably or definitely will not get the shot. A similar percentage of parents said they did not plan to vaccinate their children.

In the late summer, government health officials made the nation's COVID-19 vaccination campaign more like the annual flu campaign.

Officials approved updated shots that have a single target, an omicron descendant named XBB.1.5. They replaced vaccines that targeted the original coronavirus strain and a much earlier omicron version. Last month, the CDC recommended the new shots for everyone 6 months and older.

The government also transitioned to a commercialized system that relied on the health-care industry  not the government  to handle the distribution of the shots. Many people who immediately went for shots said pharmacies or doctors didn't have them.

Americans have been urged to get different iterations of the vaccines for more than 2 and 1/2 years. This year, COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations fell to lower levels than seen in the previous three years.

Cases remain low compared with the pandemic's early months. Even so, health officials say about 18,000 hospitalization and 1,200 deaths are still being reported each week.

One expert at the meeting, Dr. Camille Kotton of Harvard Medical School, called the numbers abysmal and said part of the problem may be patient confusion. She urged stepped-up public education efforts.

Dr. David Kimberlin, of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, also expressed dismay.

The recommendations are not being heard," he said.

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Science and Educational Media Group. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
BRUSSELS (AP)  If a warm handshake with Russian President Vladimir Putin weren't provocative enough, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban went into an EU summit Thursday saying he was right to meet the EU's foremost enemy and that most of the other leaders were wrong.

Orban characterized himself as the only one actively seeking peace in Ukraine, though his controversial stance on Russia appears to have gained an ally within the EU with the addition of new Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, with both threatening to obstruct EU aid to Ukraine, much of which requires unanimity amid the 27 nations.

Most EU leaders werent taking it. Its really more than strange to see that we start to flirt with the regime who is committing very cruel atrocities, said Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda. It sends a very wrong message to anybody.

As the EU leaders held their traditional fall summit in Brussels, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy joined by video link, exhorting the bloc to continue its support for Ukraine and to show unity in the face of Putin.

Without mentioning Orban, Zelenskyy told the leaders: And one more thing. I thank everyone who is making every effort to preserve unity. Unity with Ukraine. Unity within the European Union.

Orban declined to step back from his controversial meeting last week in Beijing with Putin.

We keep open all the communication lines to the Russians. Otherwise, there would be no chance for peace, Orban said. This is a strategy. So we are proud of it.

"We are the only one who is speaking on behalf and in favor of the peace which would be the interest of everybody in Europe, he said, countering the official EU position of ostracizing Putin since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

That go-it-alone approach symbolized by the handshake with Putin undermined the carefully crafted sense of EU unity.

We have no right to do that, Nauseda said. It is very important, especially now in this critical stage of the war, to stay united, not to split our foreign policy."

It not only weakens Brussels, but it also strengthens Moscow, said Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas. "This plays into the Kremlins card, really. They are wanting to see us divided.

However, Orban will have a new ally around the summit table Thursday, since left-wing populist Fico is representing Slovakia as prime minister following his partys election victory last month.

Like Orban, Fico has had warm words for Russia and questions about the long series of war-related sanctions imposed on Moscow. He upped the ante during his countrys election campaign when, in clear contradiction of EU policy and promises, he vowed to withdraw Slovakias military support for Ukraine.

And he didn't step back on Thursday.

To make it clear, I wont vote for any sanctions against Russia unless we have analysis of their impact on Slovakia on the table, Fico said, arguing that previous sanctions harmed his nation.

Those are welcome words for Orban as he is poised to lose his biggest ally in the bloc, the nationalist government of Poland. The opposition, led by former EU Council President Donald Tusk, won Polands national election on Oct. 15 and now seeks to lead the nation back to the center of EU policy-making, undoing much of the existing political alliance with Orban.

For Ukraine, much is at stake: Orban could hold up issues ranging from EU financial support and arms deliveries, and could potentially even veto Ukraine's application for membership, a decision that requires unanimity among the bloc's current members.

So far, though, European diplomats said that Orbans bluster outside the summit center rarely has translated into intransigence behind closed doors. Since February 2022, the 27 nations have stuck together, even if some sanctions packages were slowed down by extra demands from Orban.

___ Karel Janicek in Prague and Justin Spike in Budapest contributed.
Oct 25 (Reuters) - Ford Motor and United Auto Workers (UAW) union negotiators reached a tentative labor deal after a six-week strike, UAW President Shawn Fain said on Wednesday, a 4-1/2-year contract that would provide a record pay boost.

The deal, which needs approval by union leaders and members, would be the first settlement of strikes by 45,000 workers against Ford, General Motors and Chrysler-parent Stellantis that began Sept. 15.

"We told Ford to pony up and they did," Fain said in a video post on Facebook, adding that the strike at Ford "has delivered."

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain raises his fist at a rally in Detroit, on Sept. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File) (ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Fain said the UAW reached an historic agreement with Ford, including a 25% wage increase over the life of the contract. Ford workers will receive an immediate 11% wage hike. Including compounding and cost of living, worker pay will rise about 33% to over $40 an hour over the life of the contract.

In addition to the general wage hike, Fain said that the lowest paid temporary workers would see raises of more than 150% over the contract term and employees would reach top pay after three years. The union also won the right to strike Ford over future plant closures, he said.

Fain said UAW was asking Ford workers to return to work to put pressure on GM and Stellantis to reach a deal. Ford confirmed the news.

"We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our U.S. operations," Ford CEO and President Jim Farley said in a statement.

If the contract is ratified by Ford workers, it would set the standard for bargaining at General Motors and Stellantis and expire on April 30, 2028.

The Ford contract would reverse concessions the union agreed to in a series of contracts since 2007, when GM and the former Chrysler were skidding toward bankruptcy, and Ford was mortgaging its assets to stay afloat.

"This lays the groundwork for the next two contracts and they should fall in line fairly quickly because all three were within a narrow gap of each other," Sam Fiorani, vice president of global vehicle forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions.

Story continues

More than 45,000 union members working at the Detroit Three automakers have joined walkouts that began on Sept. 15.

"The strike so far has been painful for everybody and knowing what it takes to get a signed contract should bring them to the table much quicker," he said.

The UAW ratcheted up pressure on the companies by striking at each company's most profitable plant - GM's Arlington, Texas assembly plant, Ford's Kentucky heavy-duty pickup factory and Stellantis' Ram pickup plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Total economic losses from the auto workers' strike have reached $9.3 billon, the Anderson Economic Group said earlier this week.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

More clouds than sun, but still some sun from time to time; dry and seasonable. .

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy and not as cold; lows remaining above freezing. Don't forget to turn back the clocks one hour before bed.
Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson was voted in as speaker of House on Wednesday, after the seat sat vacant for over two weeks. Johnson received 220 votes, with unanimous GOP support.

"We want our allies around the world to know that this body of lawmakers are reporting again to our duty stations," he told the House. "Let the enemies of freedom around the world hear us loud and clear. The people's House is back in business."

Johnson is vowing to hit the ground running. "The challenge before us is great, but the time for action is now and I will not let you down," he said.

Congressman Dan Meuser said he was happy to vote for Johnson, who he calls a friend. Meuser issued a statement saying, in part, "He will fight for a conservative agenda that benefit all Americans and move our country forward. He will promote a more inclusive Speaker's office that puts "members first," and therefore, puts the 'People first.'"

But Democrats are not happy. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan says she will try to find common ground with Speaker Johnson but that his voting records look very different from hers.

In a statement, she also expressed her concerns about Johnson's lead role in trying to overturn the 2020 election results. "His efforts to overturn the 2020 Presidential election should concern us all, and I remain apprehensive about what his leadership could mean for the integrity of our democratic institutions," she said.

Fellow Democrat Congresswoman Madeleine Dean tweeted "Rep. Mike Johnson has limited leadership experience, but a long record of extremism," and that she will not support him.

Speaker Johnson has a number of pressing issues he must tackle, including the Nov. 17 deadline for government funding set to expire.
READING, Pa.  The Reading Zoning Hearing Board heard testimony Wednesday from a Brooklyn, New York-based developer as to why it should grant zoning relief to allow for an adaptive reuse of the former Central Catholic High School building at 1400 Hill Road.

Reading Hill LLC, which is an entity controlled by a Brooklyn development company, Heights Advisors, is asking for a special exception for an adaptive reuse to establish 78 dwelling units, or in the alternative, a change from one non-conforming use to another non-conforming use.

The developer is also seeking a variance for the required square-footage requirements for dwelling units and a variance from the number of required off-street parking spaces.

Andrew Goltzman, co-manager of the property, said plans have been developed to maximize the space within the unique structure without any demolition.

"We didn't just engineer this to maximize unit count," Goltzman said. "We did this to maximize the integrity of the building while maintaining our respect for the historic nature of the structure."

Philadelphia architect Plato Marinakos agreed with the need to preserve the historic structure.

"There is something unique about Central Catholic and the affinity that folks have for the school," Marinakos said. "We are especially concerned with preserving the staircase and all these other features. Those can easily be converted into units, but it would detract the character and historic value of the building for the community."

Marinakos was referring to a grand marble staircase in the building which was once the pride of each senior class, as only the upperclassmen could use the steps.

At the close of the 2010-11 academic year, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allentown made the decision to close the school to form Berks Catholic High School.

The building, also known as the Luden mansion and "Bon-Air" mansion, was used as a private residence for William H. Luden until it was converted into Reading Central Catholic High School in 1939.

Goltzman said that while some of the proposed units are less square footage than what the city allows, others are larger.

The city's ordinance requires a minimum space of 400 square feet for efficiencies, 550 square feet for one-bedroom apartments and 700 square feet for two-bedroom apartments.

Because of the unique layout of the building, some bedrooms are being designed without windows.

Also at issue is parking.

The developer also owns the lot and building at 1500 Eckert Ave., which was once used as a convent for the school.

The plan is to develop 98 parking spaces around the existing building.

The city ordinance requires 1.5 spaces per unit, which would have required 117 spaces.

The Reading Parking Authority has endorsed the developer's parking plan.

Mayor Eddie Moran and City Manager William Heim sent letters in support of the entire project.

City Council, however, opposed the plan in a resolution.

Councilwoman Marcia Goodman-Hinnershitz testified that council stands in opposition to the project because of density issues.

"We're looking at density issues within the city, and because of our challenging resources to have sufficient fire (protection), to have sufficient public works, to have sufficient enforcement, when we start to create smaller and smaller units, it puts a challenge on the city," Goodman-Hinnershitz said.

"So, we've been consistent as City Council to take positions on this over several years," she said. "This is a concern for how high density can impact the quality of life and the safety of the city."

"This is not cookie-cutter design," Goltzman said. "I also think it's important for you to know the internal size of the building is almost 80,000 square feet."

"We're only showing the units using 49,000 square feet," he continued. "If we did demolition to create clear floor plans, we could put in more units and be compliant with the zoning code."

Hill Road resident William Vitale, a retired architect, said he does not necessarily oppose the adaptive reuse, but objected to the interior bedrooms without windows.

"And so I wonder, who these units can be rented to," Vitale said. "I'm going to venture a guess that most people, if they have an option, are going to rent units that have windows in their bedrooms. Are these going to be rented to people that don't have options, and I don't know what that suggests."

Vitale also said he looked at the list of proposed units and he believed more than 50 units fell below the square-footage requirements.

"The building's existing structure created a situation for us where we really have no option but to design a smaller space to accommodate the existing walls we're dealt with," Goltzman testified.

Eleventh Street resident Roxanne Curran said she sees red flags as to the intentions of the developer.

"My big concern is that past behavior is the best predictor of future performance," Curran said. "I have walked by this building every day over the last two years, which is how long this LLC has owned it, and there has been nothing but complete neglect of all the outdoor space, including overgrown trees, weeds, and grass."

"The only time that the LLC sent it's crew from New York was when someone reported them to codes," she claimed. "There's just been rampant neglect of the property and if these people, the LLC that now owns this, is going to be running this apartment building, then I don't expect much and am fearful of what its going to be like."

Hessian Road resident Dr. Gary Wegman raised concerns over the insufficient parking.

"It raises the question whether or not the project won't adversely impact the community," Wegman said.

Reading attorney Mark Koch, representing the developer, noted that at its peak, the high school had well over 1,000 students and faculty members.

"And they had on-street parking, and the community was able to deal with it," Koch said.

He suggested residents contact the parking authority to make their concerns known.

The zoning panel is expected to render a decision on Nov. 8.
ALLENTOWN, Pa. - Police and emergency crews responded to William Allen High School Thursday morning following a 911 call.

Police and ambulances began to arrive at the high school around 10:20 a.m. for a report of an active shooter. Officers conducted a systematic clearing of the school in conjunction with Allentown School District personnel to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff, according to a news release from the Allentown Police Department.

Allentown Police say this was not an active shooter situation and that there's no threat to the public.

The investigation is active and ongoing into the origins of the call, city police said.

The Allentown Police Department is asking anyone with information to call Detectives at 610-437-7721 or the Police Desk at 610-437-7753 (ext 1). Additionally, anonymous text tips can be sent via the Tip411 App available on the Allentown Police Facebook Page or via the Allentown Police Department website.

Allentown School District officials released the following statement:

This morning at approximately 10:20 a.m. an anonymous 911 call reported an active shooter at William Allen High School.

School administration immediately placed the school in lockdown. During this lockdown, the Allentown Police Department conducted a search of the entire school to determine that there was no threat or active shooter. The lockdown has since been lifted and regular classes have resumed on an adjusted schedule.

In response to this incident, our School Crisis Intervention Teams and District Central Office Intervention Team which includes administrators, social workers, school counselors, psychologists, and community partners are available to provide support to students and staff.

Please keep in mind that sharing information quickly and effectively is critical to keeping our schools safe. We encourage any member of our community to contact the Districts Anonymous Tip line 24 hours a day at 1-844-SAF2SAY or safe2saypa.org. In cases of emergency, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

Every tip received is thoroughly investigated, and students should use this system to report credible or suspected threats and share as much information as possible. However, please know it is a felony in Pennsylvania to report false information to law enforcement.

We want to thank our staff and students for their cooperation and patience during this lockdown.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - A principal of a middle school in the Bethlehem Area School District is expressing his concerns about students instigating fights and promoting them on social media.

Broughal Middle School Principal Brandon Horlick, in a message to the community Monday, said he is concerned about the amount of students "instigating, promoting, recording, and celebrating" physical violence on students, and staff members when they attempt to intervene.

Horlick said the school canceled a pep rally and postponed the school dance as a result of the "promotion and celebration" of the fights.

"All members of the Broughal community have an expectation of safety and when students are conducting themselves in a dangerous or oppositional manner, I will not put other students and staff in a situation I am not comfortable with," Horlick said in the letter.
EASTON, Pa.  A proposed resolution calling for a ceasefire in the Middle East resulted in a raucous Easton City Council meeting Wednesday night.

Shortly after the meeting began, Mayor Sal Panto called to amend the agenda to delete a "new business" item introducing the resolution "calling for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and occupied Palestine."

The resolution, introduced by Councilmember Taiba Sultana, referenced armed violence that the resolution states claimed the lives of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis, and the "seige of 2.2 million Palestinians" creating a "humanitarian crisis."

The resolution also said the federal government holds "immense diplomatic power to save Palestinian lives," and called for Congresswoman Susan Wild to co-sponsor the Ceasefire Now resolution recently introduced by other lawmakers in Congress.

Furthermore, the resolution urged Gov. Josh Shapiro, Pennsylvania state senators and the Biden administration to immediately call for and facilitate de-escalation and a ceasefire. It also said the Biden administration should send and facilitate humanitarian assistance to Gaza, as well as cease additional military funding, troops or weapons that would intensify the war.

"I bring this up because it deals with something that I have no control over as a councilmember in the city of Easton, and I think it's very lopsided, the resolution," Panto said of the motion to pull the resolution from the agenda. "I don't think it's very balanced."

"I think we're all against war and the killing of innocent people, especially civilians  young and old  but I certainly don't think that this resolution should be part of a City Council agenda," he said.

Councilmember David O'Connell said he thought it was a "very poor resolution," as it does not mention Israel's right to defend itself. However, he pointed out that council, in the past, has voted on resolutions that go "beyond the city's scope of legislation," where it has stated its support or lack of support for certain issues.

Sultana contended that the resolution focuses on calling for a ceasefire for civilians who have been killed in the last 18 days and the "genocide that still continues."

"As a local elected official, we do have a responsibility to stand up with our citizens," Sultana said.

Councilmember Ken Brown said the resolution only speaks to one side and says nothing about Israel, putting council in a position to have to choose a side.

The vote to remove the item from the agenda passed in a 5-2 vote, with Sultana and O'Connell voting against the removal.

Even though the resolution was removed from the agenda, council allowed several individuals in a large audience crowd to speak on it during public comment.

"I think that by shutting down this resolution, we also shut down the voices of those who are trying to speak for the people that are dying," said Yaseen Saleh, a student at Lafayette College.

Saleh said a ceasefire would not be for Israel or for Palestine, but rather, for the sake of stopping the killing of "innocents that are in between, no matter what side they're on."

He urged council to consider passing a resolution, even if it does not make a difference on a federal level, to allow it to be a "step along the way to allow these voices to be heard."

Panto said he agreed that there should be a ceasefire, but he took issue with how the resolution was written. His version of such a resolution would have been four paragraphs, he said, whereas Sultana's was two pages long and "full of inaccuracies."

Panto said Sultana's language suggested that the federal government is agitating against a ceasefire.

"Because we are preparing for the possibility of war by sending three armed aircraft carriers there," he said.

"Yes, we're showing our might, and we should show our might because might equals peace," Panto said, to shouts of disapproval from some people in the audience.

Panto also criticized the process by which the resolution was added to the agenda. He said it did not first go to any committee for review and discussion, which is supposed to happen before being added to the agenda.

"We don't have a committee on international affairs," he said. "I didn't know which committee to send it to."

O'Connell said a committee meeting in advance usually vets resolutions to ensure they are written property, but Sultana did not call such a meeting.

"Tonight is the first night that any of us are discussing this, and so I certainly understand that there's going to be a lot of give and take and a lot of different opinions," O'Connell said, "but just because we're against the way the resolution is crafted doesn't mean that we're against human rights."

Councilmember Ken Brown said the resolution came to the city clerk "on a Thursday" when it should have been submitted a week ago, which does not follow established procedures.

Southside Easton resident An-Nisa Muqtadir, who spoke during public comment, directed her comments toward Panto, telling him that she and members of her family have long supported the mayor as well as Sultana.

She told Panto that he and the councilmembers do speak for the city of Easton.

"Do not go back on your words now...it does start small," Muqtadir said. "Speaking about this makes waves go through, allows it to grow bigger."

"You were voted in by the voices of the city of Easton, and look at all these people here  and I can guarantee you many of them are the city of Easton," she said.

Muqtadir said Panto was "nitpicking" what Sultana was saying and not addressing the "genocide" in the resolution.

She referenced a Christopher Columbus statue and a Larry Holmes statue within a mile of each other in Easton, and said Columbus removed the native language from those who were here before him.

"What do you think is happening right now?" Muqtadir said. "Israel is trying to remove the people, their language, every single part of them."

As the discussion became more intense and Muqtadir was told that her allotted time to speak was nearing its end, she accused Panto of laughing while she was speaking, and members of the audience started shouting.

Councilman Roger Ruggles called for Muqtadir to calm down, to which she told him to "shut up."

She accused council of not caring about the killing of children, to which Panto shouted, "Don't say I don't care! Don't put words in my mouth!"

Raya Abdelaal, a Palestinian who resides in Nazareth, also took to the podium. She spoke about her grandparents who she said were displaced after the creation of Israel.

"I am a product of war," she said. "When you say that this is a 'hot topic,' it hurts because my people dying is not a hot topic."

Abdelaal presented council with photos of Palestinian children who she said were killed "at the hands of Israel." She said decisions do matter, and people see and hear them.

At the advice of solicitor Joel Scheer, City Council conducted the rest of its regular agenda business before a second public comment session was opened.

Hagai Feiner, president of Easton-based real estate company Platform Five, said he came to the meeting to present his view as a Jew and Israeli who came to the U.S. when he was 22 years old.

He said he has seen the "impact of terror." His sister, he said, had half of her leg blown off by a Hezbollah terrorist, and he said he lost a family member who was shot in the head in Gaza three weeks ago.

"I feel all of this pain of this room, and all of this pain is real, valid pain," Feiner said. "And yet, when I see a city councilmember promoting an agenda, promoting one side of the story, promoting some things that are not facts  they are speculation."

"Ms. Sultana has an agenda," Feiner said. "Beyond the pain, there is an agenda that has been brought into City Council, steered in a certain direction, and there are lies that are being spread on the internet about my people, which also incites violence."

"There was never a call for the release of the American hostages that are still being held in Gaza. Where is that?" Feiner asked of Sultana. "What is your real interest in this City Council position?"

"There are two sides to the story, and we have a city councilmember misrepresenting the facts," he said. "I'm waiting for you to start displaying both sides of the story to have some balance here, and same for all of you."

Mark Charles Rosenzweig, a retired academic living in downtown Easton who describes himself as a secular Jew, spoke in favor of the Ceasefire Now resolution.

He said he stands with the Palestinian people and that the hostages need to be released alive.

"We, here and everywhere, must speak out because, at present, this campaign of collective punishment by the Israelis is being done with the full support of our country's government and military," Rosenzweig said.

After public comment, the heated debate between Sultana and many of the councilmembers continued.

Responding to Feiner's comments, Sultana said her three children holding "Ceasefire Now" signs in the audience are her "agenda" as a councilmember.

Sultana went on to speak about Israel cutting off water and electricity in Gaza and "ethnic cleansing." She referenced UNICEF's reports of the number of Palestinian civilians, including children, who have been killed.

Councilmember Brown said he believed there would have been a better outcome at the meeting if the resolution had gone through the steps that are in place for committee review. He also said he did not believe the broader public was aware of Sultana's proposed resolution, as the audience largely included only individuals who were familiar with it.

Councilmember Peter Melan pointed out that there are usually agenda items that have not first gone through committee review.

Solicitor Scheer, as a resident, approached the podium to offer his own perspective. He said he could come up with "20 other conflicts where there are just as many innocent people dying," and City Council has not made any statements or resolutions about those.

He also said he did not feel City Council meetings are the proper place to address complex foreign affairs, and city business at such meetings should be more focused on issues that impact the local community.

Councilman Ruggles echoed the sentiment, and offered that there are Ukrainians who have had a "large portion of their county taken over" as an example of other international wars that council has not explicitly addressed.

Ruggles said most local governments have stayed away from resolutions condemning those actions because it's difficult to identify all such instances in the world today.

Sultana responded to Ruggles, telling him that holding political office calls for taking the time to become aware of what's happening in the world.

"If you don't have time to do that, maybe this is not for you," she said to him.

"That's a terrible thing to say," O'Connell told Sultana, as other councilmembers expressed disapproval of her comment and Panto adjourned the meeting.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Bright innovators from the Lehigh Valley and beyond met in Bethlehem for StartUp Lehigh Valley, a competition where entrepreneurs pitched their new products. And it was seen live right here on WFMZ, with our own Bo Koltnow co-hosting the event.

The event, now in its fifth year, was sponsored and run by Lehigh University in partnership with Factory LLC. It saw entrepreneurs coming from as far as California.

Held at Factory LLC, it's a competition much like Shark Tank, where companies and creators get two minutes to pitch their products.

"In the United States, a horse owner can expect to spend up to $1500 or more per year, per horse on bedding alone," April Schiel, owner of MuckMeister Enterprises, LLC, said during her pitch. "That's why I created The Bedding Blocker."

Schiel collected more than one prize, including the $1,000 Audience Choice Award, which the audience votes on, American Idol-style.

"So you and your horses are going to ride off into the sunset with your giant check," Bo Koltnow, who co-hosted the event, said.

Contestants also answered questions from judges.

Multiple prizes were awarded.

WATCH THE FULL SHOW:

"I think we have more prizes than companies," Nathan Urban, Provost for Lehigh University, said. "But one company can win more than one prize."

The second runner up received $2,000 and the first runner up received $3,000. Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Northeastern Pennsylvania gave out a $5,000 award.

And the grand-prize winner received $20,000.

Jonathan Maderic, owner of JMAD Creations, LLC, won that grand prize for his product, designed to better measure pulse and oxygen in people with darker skin.

"During COVID-19, they discovered there was an inherent bias with darker skin tones," Maderic said. "They were often sent home without the care they needed."

Maderic says he lives in Bethlehem, and was born and raised there as well.

Dulra Amolegbe, creator of Dot, Inc., also cleaned up, winning a total of $7500 in various prizes.

Amolegbe, a sophomore at Lehigh University, comes all the way from Nigeria.

"I'm originally from Nigeria, but I visited Kenya," he said. "So while moving from one country to the other, I realized how difficult it is for immigrants to access digital banking."

With the help of his award money, soon, there'll be an app for that.

"I'm pretty grateful to be able to receive help," he said.

These award-winning startups now have a leg up on their competitors.
ALLENTOWN, Pa.  At its bimonthly meeting Wednesday evening, the Lehigh County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted to approve the countys 2024 budget with no property tax increase for residents.

Formally passed as Bill 2023-49, the budget was adopted six days before the deadline of Tuesday, Oct. 31. It has a total value of about $520 million and maintains the current tax rate of 3.78 mills for the fifth consecutive year, according to county documents.

According to Chairman Geoff Brace, the financial models presented to the commissioners by Lehigh County Chief Fiscal Officer Tim Reeves project that tax increases would also be unlikely in the next five years beyond 2024.

The financial model shows not needing to raise taxes for the foreseeable time of that financial model, Brace said. Were looking at five years of balanced budgets. Barring some kind of ship running into us, I think were going to be in good shape on that.

Included in the budget is a $25 million stabilization fund to help the county maintain revenue levels during tax collection season  or when the state doesnt pass a budget in time, according to Reeves.

Also included in the budget is a nearly $10,000 increase to the Lehigh County Controllers Office budget for legal services. The increase would raise the allocated amount from $9,990 to $19,980, according to county documents.

Republican controller candidate Robert E. Smith Jr. called the increase a waste of taxpayer money in an Oct. 12 Facebook post. Smith has said he will not spend any of the money if elected.

Other business

In other news, the commissioners conducted initial readings of several bills and resolutions that will be up for a vote at their next meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 8. The board spent considerable time discussing two of these bills.

Bill 2023-52 is a measure designed to provide adequate state IDs to inmates when they are released from Lehigh County Jail.

According to Enid Santiago and Luna Fernandez of Self LV  an organization designed to help women reacclimate to life out of prison  released inmates are often unable to use their prison-issued IDs to open bank accounts, get a job or relocate, and access state services. Passing such a bill would help eliminate these barriers for newly-free inmates, Santiago and Fernandez said.

You guys dont know how much this is needed for our prison survivors, Fernandez told the commissioners while advocating for the bill.

Bill 2023-54 would establish countywide non-discrimination requirements across employment, housing, health care and more. It would also create a human relations commission to investigate and enforce claims of discrimination in violation of the requirements, according to county documents.

Commissioner Jeffrey Dutt expressed concern about the current 22-page proposal, arguing some discrimination requirements went too far and would be difficult for the county to enforce.

Theres many categories in there that would, in my opinion, would be difficult to enforce, Dutt said.

Brace responded that drafting specific criteria could take time, and that the current bill could easily be amended before taking a final vote.

If there are elements that are objectionable, this can be amended, Brace said.

The Lehigh County Board of Commissioners will next meet on Wednesday, Nov. 8.
PHILADELPHIA  A Philadelphia man who possessed a pipe bomb at a St. Luke's Hospital in the Lehigh Valley has been sentenced, according to a news release from the Department of Justice.

Brian James Kunsman, 46, was sentenced to 77 months, or about six years, in prison for possession of an unregistered destructive device, the DOJ said. He was also sentenced to three years of supervised release.

In October of 2021, Kunsman possessed a "pipe bomb" inside the emergency room at St. Lukes University Hospital in the Fountain Hill section of Bethlehem, according to the news release.

An attending nurse discovered that Kunsman had brought the homemade destructive device in his backpack while he was a patient at the emergency room, according to the DOJ. Following the discovery, the emergency department of the hospital was evacuated for a four-hour period and all incoming trauma patients had to be diverted to other local hospitals.

"Homemade explosive devices are a dangerous threat in any circumstance; prompting an evacuation in an emergency department where patients are receiving acute medical care is unconscionable," said U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero. "We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for working quickly and efficiently to ensure the safety of everyone impacted by Kunsman's actions."

The defendant engaged in incredibly reckless behavior, endangering the lives of the hospital staff, patients, and first responders, said ATF Special Agent in Charge Eric DeGree. We appreciate the support of the United States Attorneys office and our state and local law enforcement partners throughout this investigation.
Michael Warren / Getty Images

If you had a dollar for every time the terms retire and sunny Florida were used in the same sentence, youd probably be rich enough to retire just about anywhere in sunny Florida you want. In fact, a Google search of those three words  retire, sunny and Florida  brings back about 5.5 million results.

See: 5 Places To Retire That Are Just Like Florida But Way Cheaper

Find: The Simple, Effective Way To Fortify Your Retirement Mix

But while data from Hire a Helper indicated that Florida is the No. 1 destination for retirees who move to another state, its hold on the top spot has slipped in recent years.

According to a new analysis from financial services company Empower, only two Florida cities rank among the 15 U.S. cities retirees most want to live in. Thats the same number of cities as Colorado  which has never been considered especially warm or sunny. Although most cities on the list are located in the Sun Belt, there are also a couple scattered in the Northeast and Pacific Northwest.

Empower also looked at the 20 most affordable U.S. cities to retire in. Florida fared much better on that list, with six cities listed. Again, the majority of cities are in warm weather climates  14 out of the 20  but there were also a several cities that can get downright frigid for part of the year.

Interestingly, of the 15 most popular cities for retirees, only five made the most affordable list.

For its analysis, Empower surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults  including 200 retirees  to get their perspectives on the best cities to live in and what qualities make them most appealing. The survey was conducted in July 2023 by Fractl on behalf of Empower. It rated cities on the following variables:

Tax friendliness (30% of the score).

Healthcare quality and access (25%).

Home affordability (20%).

Cost of living (15%).

Sunshine percentage (10%).

Retirees were also asked their top priorities when deciding where to live. Cost of living came in first, followed by being close to family, crime rates, weather and home prices.

Story continues

Here are the 15 cities retirees most want to live:

San Diego, California: Mentioned by 19% of respondents. Virginia Beach, Virginia: 12%. Charlotte, North Carolina: 12%. Tampa, Florida: 12%. Nashville, Tennessee: 12%. Colorado Springs, Colorado: 11%. Portland, Oregon: 11%. Las Vegas, Nevada: 11%. Denver, Colorado: 11%. Seattle, Washington: 10%. Raleigh, North Carolina: 10%. Jacksonville, Florida: 10%. Tucson, Arizona: 8%. Boston, Massachusetts: 7%. Atlanta, Georgia: 7%.

Of those cities, five also appeared on the list of most affordable cities: Colorado Springs, Jacksonville, Las Vegas, Tampa and Virginia Beach. Three of the most desirable cities  Boston, Portland and Seattle  consistently rank among the most expensive cities in the United States.

Fifteen of the most affordable cities for retirees did not make the list of most desirable cities to live in:

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Detroit, Michigan.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Reno, Nevada.

Tallahassee, Florida.

Gainesville, Florida.

Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Columbus, Georgia.

Augusta, Georgia.

Spokane, Washington.

Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Memphis, Tennessee.

Richmond, Virginia.

Orlando, Florida.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 15 Cities Where People Want To Retire  Can You Afford Them?
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - A man has been arrested after an hours-long standoff in Bethlehem.

Brian George Lichtenwalner, 31, had multiple warrants for his arrest, including bench warrants from Monroe County for failure to appear on charges relating to disarming a law enforcement officer, and drug possession inside a prison, according to a news release from the Bethlehem Police Department.

City police received information shortly after 10 a.m. Wednesday that a man wanted on numerous charges was inside a residence in the 200 block of 11th Avenue, according to the news release.

Lichtenwalner was also wanted for multiple DUI-related violations, city police said.

Police made numerous attempts throughout the late morning and afternoon to convince Lichtenwalner to exit the home and surrender to police, according to the news release. Police say he continued to hide inside the home and made no attempt to speak with police or leave the home.

The Bethlehem Police Departments Emergency Response Team served a search warrant on the residence, and after an extended search of the home found Lichtenwalner hiding in a closet on the third floor, according to city police. Even after being contacted by police inside the home, he continued to resist efforts to be arrested, city police said.

Lichtenwalner was taken into custody by police just before 7 p.m.

Lichtenwalner will be housed at Lehigh County Jail pending extradition by Monroe County authorities on the arrest warrants. Additional charges are expected relating to the standoff with police, city police said.
L. PROVIDENCE TWP., Pa. - A jury delivered its verdict Tuesday in the case of a man accused in a crash that killed a woman and her unborn baby.

The jury found dump truck driver Everett Clayton guilty of two counts of third-degree murder in the death of Kellie Adams and her unborn baby Emersyn Grace, according to the Montgomery County Coroner's Office.

The dump truck crashed into the Chevy Tahoe driven by Adams on Park Avenue in Lower Providence Township on August 25, 2022, the DA's office said.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  Israeli troops and tanks briefly raided northern Gaza overnight, the military said Thursday, engaging with Hamas fighters and targeting anti-tank weapons in order to prepare the battlefield before an expected ground invasion.

The third Israeli raid since the war began came after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes that have left thousands dead, and more than 1 million displaced from their homes, in the small, densely-populated territory.

The U.S. military, meanwhile, launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said, in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

Arab leaders made a joint plea Thursday for a cease-fire to end civilian suffering and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, where Israel has imposed a suffocating siege ever since Hamas rampage and hostage-taking in southern Israel ignited the war. Residents are running out of food, water and medicine, and U.N. workers have barely any fuel left to support relief missions.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Thursday more than 7,000 Palestinians have died in the fighting, a figure that could not be independently verified. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches a ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

More than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians, were slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

The damage to Gaza from nearly three weeks of bombardment showed in satellite photos of several locations taken before the war and again in recent days.

Entire rows of residential buildings simply disappear in the photos, reduced to smears of dust and rubble. A complex of 13 high-rises by the sea was pounded to dust near Gaza City's al-Shati refugee camp, leaving only a few tottering bits of facade. Just down the street, hardly anything remained in what had been a neighborhood of low-built homes on winding lanes, according to the photos by Maxar Technologies.

New strikes Thursday leveled more than eight homes belonging to an extended family, killing at least 15 people in the southern city of Khan Younis. In the chaotic wasteland of crumbled concrete and twisted metal, rescuers lifted the body of a boy from beneath a slab.

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Oct. 7 massacre, Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit. The military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Palestinian militants have fired thousands of rockets into Israel since the war began. One struck a residential building in the central city of Petah Tikva, without wounding anyone.

Hamas military wing said Thursday that Israeli bombardment has so far killed about 50 of the at least 224 hostages the militants abducted during its Oct. 7 assault. There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials, who have denied previous, similar claims.

Family members and Jewish groups are trying to keep the spotlight on the hostages' plight. In Paris, 30 empty baby strollers were displayed in front of the Eiffel Tower  each with a photo of one of the children taken from Israel. A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of the abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

The conflict has threatened to ignite a wider war across the region.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed ally of Hamas in Lebanon, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel along the border. The United States has sent to the region two aircraft carrier strike groups, along with additional fighter jets and other weaponry and personnel.

In a statement Thursday night, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the strikes in eastern Syria were a response to a series of ongoing and mostly unsuccessful attacks against U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups that began on Oct. 17.

He said President Joe Biden directed the narrowly tailored strikes to make clear that the United States will not tolerate such attacks and will defend itself, its personnel and its interests. He added that the operation was separate and distinct from Israels war against Hamas.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas capacity to govern Gaza or threaten Israel again but also says it doesnt want to reoccupy the territory, from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005. That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Gaza, with political and charity organizations as well as a formidable armed wing.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

The overnight raid into Gaza was the largest of several known brief incursions. The military said soldiers and tanks killed fighters and destroyed tunnels and anti-tank missile launching positions. The military said no Israelis were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Israel also said it also carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure. Its reported targeting could not be independently verified.

The figure of 7,000 deaths reported by the Gaza Health Ministry is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. The ministrys toll includes more than 2,900 minors and more than 1,500 women.

After Biden said he had no confidence in Gaza's casualty figures, the Health Ministry on Thursday countered by releasing a more than 200-page document listing the names of 6,747 dead, including ages and gender. It said another 281 dead had not been identified and that hundreds still missing under rubble were not included in the count.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it for military use.

About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowding into U.N. shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south and saying that those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel has let more than 70 trucks with aid enter from Egypt.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean, said William Schomburg, an official with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

Elsewhere, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday that an explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba, which is near the border with Israel. Five people were wounded. The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

Nine Arab countries  including key U.S. allies and nations that have signed peace or normalization deals with Israel  issued a joint statement Thursday calling for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the targeting and death of civilians.

The right to self defense by the United Nations Charter does not justify blatant violations of humanitarian and international law, said the statement, signed by Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Morocco.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli authorities detained 86 Palestinians, including five women, in multiple raids overnight, bringing the total detained there to more than 1,400, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, which represents former and current prisoners. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed in violence in the West Bank.

Chehayeb reported from Beirut and Teibel from Jerusalem. Wafaa Shurafa in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, Jack Jeffery in Cairo and Brian Melley in London contributed to this report.
Israeli airstrikes are devastating parts of the Gaza Strip, leaving neighborhoods in shambles. A strike in the Nuseirat refugee camp on Wednesday killed several family members of one of Al Jazeera TVs journalists, Wael Dahdouh. Strikes elsewhere destroyed homes and businesses and left many digging through the debris.

The U.N. warned that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the blockaded territory. And the U.N. Security Council failed again to address the Israeli-Hamas war, rejecting rival resolutions by the United States and Russia.

Health care facilities are doing their best to treat the wounded, but with supplies that are becoming scarce.

The war, in its 19th day, is the deadliest of five Gaza wars for both sides. The Hamas-run Health Ministry said Wednesday that at least 6,546 Palestinians have been killed and 17,439 others wounded. In the occupied West Bank, more than 100 Palestinians have been killed and 1,650 wounded in violence and Israeli raids since Oct. 7.

The Associated Press couldn't independently verify the death tolls cited by Hamas, which says it tallies figures from hospital directors.

More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, according to Israeli officials, mostly civilians who died in the initial Hamas rampage. Israel's military on Wednesday raised the number of remaining hostages in Gaza to 222 people, including foreigners believed captured by Hamas during the incursion. Four hostages have been released.

U.S. and other officials fear the fighting could spill over into a wider regional conflict.

Currently:

1. Al Jazeera Gaza correspondent loses family members in an Israeli airstrike 2. Florida orders state universities to disband pro-Palestinian student group, saying it backs Hamas. 3. Biden condemns retaliatory attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in the West Bank 4. Leader of Lebanons Hezbollah holds talks with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures 5. Israel accuses UN chief of justifying terrorism for saying Hamas attack didnt happen in a vacuum 6. Find more of APs coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war.

Heres whats happening in the latest Israel-Hamas war:

FAMILIES OF ABDUCTED ISRAELIS MEET WITH ITALYS PRIME MINISTER

ROME  Relatives of Israelis held hostage by Hamas met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in Rome on Wednesday to speak about their anguish and raise awareness for their loved ones plight in Gaza.

Nadav Kipnis parents, Evyatar and Lilich Kipnis, were found dead days after the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. His cousin is being held captive.

None of them deserved to be treated in such horrible ways. We have to spread the message of anything that can help. Its what my parents would have wanted, Kipnis said.

Ilan Regevs two children, 21-year-old Maya and 18-year-old Itay, were kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival.

Hamas has said it seeks the release of all Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in exchange for the captives.

Give them everything, 4,000, 5,000 prisoners in Israel. I dont care, these are children, babies, bring them back, Regev said.

Since the militants bloody attack more than two weeks ago, Meloni has traveled to Israel and visited Romes main synagogue, where she pledged to defend Jewish citizens against every form of antisemitism.

ISRAELI STRIKE KILLS FAMILY MEMBERS OF AL JAZEERA BUREAU CHIEF IN GAZA

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip  An Israeli strike on Wednesday killed the wife, son and young daughter of Al Jazeera Arabics bureau chief in Gaza, Wael Dahdouh.

Footage aired on the Qatar-based TV network showed the veteran journalist, still wearing his blue body armor marked press, weeping over his sons corpse on a hospital floor.

They take vengeance on us through our children? he sobbed.

Another son, Yehia, was seriously wounded, and Dahdouh's grandson was also declared dead two hours later, the network reported. Other relatives survived the Israeli strike, including a toddler granddaughter.

This is a series of targeted attacks on children, women and civilians, Dahdouh, looking stunned, told Al Jazeera as he left the hospital.

The media network released a statement condemning what it called an indiscriminate assault on the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza. The camp is south of the area Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate.

In Gaza, Al Jazeeras Youmna Elsayed told the network: Its heartbreaking to be reporting about Waels family and to see how broken he is.

U.N. SECURITY COUNCIL FAILS AGAIN TO PASS RESOLUTION ON ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. Security Council has failed again to address the Israeli-Hamas war in Gaza, rejecting rival United States and Russian resolutions.

The U.S. resolution would have reaffirmed Israels right to self-defense, urged respect for international laws  especially protection of civilians  and called for humanitarian pauses to deliver desperately needed aid to Gaza. Wednesdays vote in the 15-member council was 10 countries in favor, 3 against and 2 abstentions. The resolution was not adopted because both Russia and China cast vetoes.

The Russian resolution would have called for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire," and unequivocally condemned Hamas Oct. 7 attacks in Israel and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and civilian objects in Gaza. The vote was 4 in favor, 2 against and 9 abstentions. The resolution wasnt adopted because it failed to get the minimum nine yes votes.

The council is charged under the U.N. Charter with maintaining international peace and security. But Wednesdays rejections, following its rejections last week of a Russian resolution and a Brazilian proposal, leave the Security Council divided and paralyzed in taking action on the Israeli-Hamas war.

Maltas U.N. Ambassador Vanessa Frazier told reporters before the vote that if both resolutions failed, she would attempt to draft a compromise resolution.

U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield accused Russia of submitting its text with no consultations in bad faith. Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia called the U.S. draft a politicized proposal to shore up Israel.

IRAQI MILITANT GROUP SAYS IT ATTACKED BASE HOUSING U.S. FORCES IN SYRIA

BAGHDAD  An Iranian backed group in Iraq claimed responsibility for an attack on a military base housing U.S. forces in eastern Syria on Wednesday, as a string of attacks targeting U.S. military facilities in Iraq and Syria persist.

The Islamic Resistance group in Iraq, an umbrella organization for several Iran-backed militias, said in a statement that it had struck the Kharab al-Jir base in the northeastern Hassakeh province with rockets. It said it hit its target, without making any mention of casualties.

Washington did not immediately comment on the attack. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in a call Monday with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shiaa al-Sudani, urged Sudani to pursue those behind the attacks and fulfill Iraqs commitment to maintain the security at these installations, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said in a statement Tuesday.

The past week has seen a spate of more than a dozen attacks on U.S. military facilities in Iraq in Syria, most of them claimed by the same group, which has said it is retaliating against Americas backing of Israel in its war with Hamas.

BIDEN CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON PALESTINIANS BY ISRAELI SETTLERS IN THE WEST BANK

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden on Wednesday said there is no going back to the status quo in Israel and the region following the deadly attack by Hamas on Oct. 7.

When this crisis is over, there has to be a vision of what comes next, Biden said during a news conference at the White House with the Prime Minister of Australia. And in our view, it has to be a two-state solution.

Biden said again that he believed Israeli had the right  the responsibility  to respond to the attack. The anger, the hurt, the sense of outrage that the Israeli people are feeling following the attack is completely understandable, he said.

But he also decried the attacks on Palestinians by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, and said it must stop and stop now, and he said he remained focused on humanitarian aid into Gaza.

AIRSTRIKE IN GAZA CITY KILLS MORE THAN 2 DOZEN AND INJURES OVER 100, HAMAS SAYS

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip  An Israeli airstrike in Gaza City on Wednesday killed at least 26 people and injured more than 100, Hamas Interior Ministry said.

Bodies of dead men and women were scattered in streets that had relatively little damage while a block of buildings lay in ruins with people searching for survivors.

Two wounded young boys embraced each other and appeared to be crying as a first responder and three other men carried them to safety on a stretcher.

A man with blood running from his scalp into his eye and down his cheek looked stunned as he sat on what remained of a sofa propped in the rubble, while a girl, who was also wounded, hugged him.

FRANCE'S MACRON ANGLES FOR INTERNATIONAL COALITION TO FIGHT HAMAS

PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron is promoting, with little success so far, the creation of an international coalition to fight the armed Palestinian group Hamas.

He pitched the idea during a two-day trip to the Middle East that started in Israel.

Leaders he met with in Israel, the West Bank, Jordan and Egypt didnt publicly address the issue.

The first response to the devastating Israel-Hamas war is the fight against terrorism, Macron said Wednesday after his meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

The right response is to cooperate, to draw lessons from the international coalition against the Islamic State group that intervened in Iraq and Syria, he added.

Macron first proposed the idea Tuesday after his meeting with Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, mentioning a regional and international coalition against Hamas, which rules the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu did not specifically comment on the proposal.

U.S. EMBASSY IN KUWAIT TO LIMIT ACTIVITY ON MILITARY BASES AFTER IRAQI MILITIA'S THREATS

JERUSALEM  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is acknowledging an Iraqi militias threat to target U.S. military bases in the Mideast nation over the Israeli airstrikes targeting the Gaza Strip in its war on Hamas.

In a statement to American citizens, the embassy identified the threat as coming from Awliya Waad al-Haq, or The True Promise Brigades. That group, believed allied with Iran, has claimed an attack previously on the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.

As a result, the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is limiting its activity on U.S. military bases to essential and official events only, the embassy said in an alert.

NETANYAHU SAYS HE WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR HAMAS' ATTACK

JERUSALEM  Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will be held accountable for the bloody Oct. 7 massacre by Hamas militants, but that will only come after Israels war against the Islamic militant group.

In a nationally televised address Wednesday night, Netanyahu said he was busy plotting a ground invasion of Gaza, though he refused to say when that might happen. He also expressed sorrow over the attack, which killed more than 1,400 Israelis and saw over 200 others taken captive in Gaza.

Oct. 7 is a black day in our history, he said. We will get to the bottom of what happened on the southern border around Gaza. This debacle will be investigated. Everyone will have to give answers, including me.

FRANCE TO SEND NAVY SHIP TO BRING AID TO GAZA STRIP, MACRON SAY

CAIRO  French President Emmanuel Macron said France is going to send a Navy ship to bring aid to hospitals in the Gaza Strip.

The ship will leave the French military port of Toulon, in the Mediterranean Sea, within 48 hours, he said. He didnt provide further details.

In addition, a French plane will arrive in Egypt on Thursday to deliver medical equipment via a convoy to Gaza. Others will follow, Macron said, adding that France wants to provide Gaza's civilian population access to medicine and medical care.

Macrons visit to Egypt comes as part of a two-day tour to the Middle East that started with a visit to Israel meant to show Frances support and solidarity following the Hamas attack on Oct. 7. The trip included a stop in Ramallah, in the West Bank, to meet with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and another stop Wednesday morning in Jordan for talks with King Abdullah II.

Macron in Egypt said, Theres no double standard  international law applies to everyone.

All victims deserve our compassion, our commitment toward a fair and sustainable peace in the Middle East, he added.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden met with new House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries at the White House on Thursday to discuss his request for nearly $106 billion for Israel, Ukraine and other national security needs.

Johnson, a staunch conservative allied with Donald Trump, has shown little interest in providing additional money from Congress to support Ukraine in its war against Russia.

Later, the new Republican speaker insisted Congress is not going to abandon Ukraine.

Instead, Johnson said House Republicans would first bring a separate bill to provide $14.5 billion in aid to Israel, but they need more information about the Biden administration's Ukraine strategy.

We cant allow Vladimir Putin to prevail in Ukraine because I don't believe it would stop there, Johnson said on Fox News' Hannity, referring to the Russian president. But he said, We must stand with our important ally in the Middle East and that's Israel.

The new Republican leader who swept into office nearly a month after the ouster of Rep. Kevin McCarthy as speaker had a busy first full day in office, having inherited many of the same political problems that tormented past GOP leaders and challenged their tenure as speaker.

In the morning, Johnson said prayer is appropriate as a response to the mass shootings in Maine.

Johnson, an evangelical Christian from Louisiana, declined to take questions, including about the possibility of any gun violence legislation from Congress.

Prayer is appropriate at a time like this, that the evil can end and the senseless violence can stop, he said.

The House convened with a bustle of activity, making up for lost time during the weeks of chaos since McCarthy's ouster as speaker. But the initial goodwill toward Johnson blurs the political fault lines challenging his ability to lead the GOP majority in the face of daunting issues ahead.

By Nov. 17, the Congress must fund the government again or risk a federal shutdown. Biden wants nearly $106 billion in military and humanitarian aid for Israel and Ukraine. And Republicans are eager to resume their impeachment inquiry into Biden over his son Hunter's business dealings.

Enough of the chaos, enough of the dysfunction, said Jeffries, D-N.Y., adding it was time for Congress to get back to business.

Jeffries said Democrats were heartbroken over the latest shootings and stand with the people of Maine in every way possible, including discussing how Congress can address gun violence.

Johnson said he and Biden met together for more than 15 minutes before the other party arrived.

It was a productive meeting, Johnson told reporters back at the Capitol. I enjoyed my visit with the president.

Biden met with Johnson and Jeffries before the House leaders joined a classified briefing with other congressional lawmakers on the assistance package, according to a White House official.

The briefing in the Situation Room for Johnson and other House leaders on the emergency funding request was the first time the new speaker, who opposes the aid to Ukraine, was getting a close airing from White House officials about Bidens case for the money. The White House has conducted similar briefings in recent weeks.

Biden had called Johnson to congratulate him after his election Wednesday and said it was time for all of us to act responsibly to fund the government and provide that foreign aid. We need to move swiftly, the president said in a statement.

Johnson, 51, swept through on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing. He was quickly sworn as speaker and is now second in line to the presidency, after the vice president.

While not the Republicans' top choice, Johnson had few foes and an important backer in Donald Trump.

At the Capitol on Thursday, Johnson sat down with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who told reporters afterward that he had a very good meeting with the new speaker.

Johnson met later with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, who said on social media they had a great meeting. He has also heard from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who told the new speaker in a Wednesday call that a bipartisan agreement with Democrats is the only way to avoid a shutdown.

In winning the gavel, Johnson, who has been in the House for less than a decade, drew together fellow Republicans through his faith, conservative roots and Trumps nod after more seasoned leaders had failed.

Im a Bible-believing Christian, Johnson told Fox's Sean Hannity.

The speaker said when he's asked his views on the issues, he advises: Well, go pick up a Bible off your shelf and read it, thats my worldview. Thats what I believe.

Democrats said Johnson, a lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, was an extreme conservative, a strict opponent of abortion access and an architect of Trump's legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost to Democrat Biden.

After Johnson's election, lawmakers approved a resolution Wednesday saying the House stands with Israel and condemns Hamas brutal war. They next turned to a stalled government funding bill.

Rather than take a scheduled work period at home, Republicans rearranged the House calendar to return to Washington next week and keep pushing through the various government funding bills before the Nov. 17 deadline.

In a letter to colleagues, Johnson outlined priorities that include providing a short-term funding bill, into next year, to prevent a November shutdown  almost the same move that led to McCarthy's ouster.

Speaker Johnson has been very clear that weve got to secure Americas border, we want to support Israel, said Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who conferred with Johnson ahead of the White House meeting. But all of the other items that the President is talking about run secondary.

Republican Rep. Michael McCaul of Texas, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Johnson is thoughtful and smart, and understands that aid for Ukraine is a national security issue, despite opposition from other Republicans in their majority.

"And what I saw in the Situation Room was I thought he was very open to the idea, said McCaul.

To avoid a shutdown, Johnson will need to balance far-right demands with the realities of keeping the government functioning. Most Republicans voted against the budget deal McCarthy, R-Calif., struck with Biden earlier this year, demanding steeper spending cuts.

Similar Republican infighting has chased three other GOP speakers to early departures. The difference now is that Republican rules allow any single lawmaker to force a vote to remove the speaker from office.

Associated Press writers Jill Colvin in New York, Darlene Superville and Mary Clare Jalonick contributed to this report.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  The North Carolina General Assembly gave final approval Wednesday to new redistricting maps poised to empower the state GOP for years to come.

Passage of the maps also marks a final achievement for Republican leaders in this year's annual session that saw their priorities on abortion, LGBTQ+ and gun rights, voting rights and education become law, and in turn eroded Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper's powers.

Lawmakers in the ninth-largest U.S. state enacted new boundary lines for state House and Senate districts and for the U.S. House delegation in a series of party-line votes.

The redistricting, resulting from court rulings related to maps for the 2022 elections, could give North Carolina Republicans at least three more seats in the U.S. House after 2024 at the expense of first- and second-term incumbent Democrats, according to state election data. That alteration could help Republicans nationally keep a House majority on Capitol Hill.

The state House and Senate maps also put Republicans in a decent position to retain complete control of both chambers through the rest of the decade. While Republicans have held majorities in both chambers since 2011, this year marked the first in five years that they held veto-proof majorities  the result of 2022 electoral gains and the party switch of a House Democrat in April.

The narrow supermajorities resulted in all 19 of Cooper's vetoes so far this year being overridden.

We campaign and run on and speak to our constituents about the things that resonate with us and with our base, said GOP Senate Majority Whip Jim Perry. "Were doing exactly what we said we were going to do.

Bills vetoed by Cooper that are now law tightened North Carolina's ban on most abortions from after 20 weeks of pregnancy to 12 weeks; prohibited gender-affirming medical treatments for youth; limited LGBTQ+ instruction in early grades; and eliminated needing a permit from a county sheriff before purchasing a handgun.

Other new laws that Cooper initially vetoed took away his ability to make appointments to several key boards and commissions and gave some or all of them to the General Assembly, its leaders or other elected officials. That includes the State Board of Elections, the state Utilities Commission and the Board of Transportation. Lawmakers approved the first appointments under this new distribution before going home Wednesday.

Legislative Republicans have worked to place a very deliberative stamp on North Carolina since they took control in 2011, said Catawba College political science professor Michael Bitzer. With veto-proof majorities, Bitzer added, they were able to carry out a lot more of shaping the state as they sought.

Democrats allied with Cooper argue the GOP this year tried to settle scores with the governor, who is term-limited from running for reelection in 2024, and to ensure the General Assembly is the strongest of the three branches of government.

The Republican-controlled legislature focused more on beating Cooper this session than we have on trying to advance the needs of a growing state, House Minority Leader Robert Reives, a Democrat, said in an interview. Now, he said, the only thing the governor can do is go around and cut ribbons.

Democrats and their allies have blasted the redistricting maps as harming minority voters and giving the GOP outsized political advantage in a state where statewide elections are closely contested. They say the current maps also are skewed, giving Republican lawmakers the ability to advance policies that hurt women or LGBTQ+ people without fear of electoral reprisals.

The issues that were seeing focused on in the legislature also do not reflect the views and priorities of most North Carolinians, Ann Webb with Common Cause North Carolina said at a Wednesday news conference. When you create noncompetitive legislative maps, you lose accountability to the voters.

North Carolina's constitution exempts redistricting legislation from gubernatorial veto, leaving opponents with little recourse but to sue. But the scope of possible litigation was narrowed by a state Supreme Court ruling in April that declared the constitution placed no limits on shifting lines for partisan gain.

Democratic lawmakers suggested during legislative debate that lawsuits alleging racial bias in the maps lie ahead. Lawsuits already have been filed over the appointments laws and one LGBTQ+ law.

Cooper did celebrate a few of the legislatures actions this year  in particular a law that will soon expand Medicaid coverage to several hundred thousand low-income adults. Expansion was one of Coopers top priorities, but it almost didnt happen because Republicans spent the summer in a stalemate over the budget. Expansion was contingent on a final budget getting enacted.

That requirement opened the door for Republican budget-writers to fill the two-year spending plan with provisions that Cooper opposed. They included expanding taxpayer-funded scholarships for private school to all K-12 children and more individual income tax cuts. Cooper decided to let the budget become law without his signature, citing Medicaid expansion as the reason.

Aside from the monumental achievement of Medicaid, Cooper spokesperson Sam Chan said in a written statement, this legislative session has hurt the people of North Carolina on almost every front.

-

This story has been updated to correct Jim Perry's title. Perry is Senate majority whip, not minority whip.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  South Korea, the U.S. and Japan strongly condemned what they call North Koreas supply of munitions and military equipment to Russia, saying Thursday that such weapons shipments sharply increase the human toll of Russias war in Ukraine.

A joint statement by the top diplomats of South Korea, the U.S. and Japan came days after Russias foreign minister scoffed at a recent U.S. claim that his country received munitions from North Korea, saying that Washington has failed to prove the allegation.

We will continue to work together with the international community to expose Russias attempts to acquire military equipment from (North Korea), said the joint statement by South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa.

Such weapons deliveries, several of which we now confirm have been completed, will significantly increase the human toll of Russias war of aggression, it said.

The joint statement was meant to show the three countries' resolve to actively respond to a weapons transfer deal that Russia and North Korea have been pursuing in defiance of repeated warnings by the international community, South Korean Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lim Soosuk told reporters.

North Korea and Russia  both locked in separate confrontations with the U.S. and its allies  have recently taken steps to strengthen their military ties. Speculation about North Koreas provision of conventional arms to refill Russias exhausted weapons stores flared last month, when North Korean leader Kim Jong Un traveled to Russias Far East to meet President Vladimir Putin and visit key military facilities.

The U.S., South Korea and others believe North Korea seeks to receive sophisticated weapons technologies from Russia to enhance its nuclear program in exchange for its munitions supply.

During his visit to Pyongyang last week, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said in a reception speech that Russia valued North Koreas unwavering support for its war on Ukraine. After returning to Moscow, Lavrov dismissed the U.S. accusation of the North Korean arms transfers, saying that the Americans keep accusing everyone."

I dont comment on rumors, he said, according to Russian state media.

Earlier this month, the White House said that North Korea had delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia. The White House released images that it said showed the containers were loaded onto a Russian-flagged ship before being moved via train to southwestern Russia.

Thursdays Seoul-Washington-Tokyo statement said the three countries are closely monitoring for any materials that Russia provides to North Korea in support of the Norths military objectives.

We are deeply concerned about the potential for any transfer of nuclear- or ballistic missile-related technology to (North Korea)," the statement said. It noted arms transfers to and from North Korea would violate U.N. Security Council resolutions, which Russia, a permanent Security Council member, previously voted for.

Since last year, North Korea has performed more than 100 missile tests, many of them designed to simulate nuclear attacks on South Korea and the U.S. Experts say Russias provision of high-tech weapons technologies would help Kim build much more reliable nuclear weapons systems.

Among the military assets North Korea reportedly wants to manufacture with Russian assistance are spy satellites. Two recent North Korean attempts to place a spy satellite into orbit failed for technical reasons, and North Korea vowed a third launch in October. But South Korea's Unification Ministry said Thursday there have been no signs of an impending launch at the North's main launch facility.

In response to North Korea's growing nuclear capability, the U.S. and South Korea have been expanding their regular military drills and restoring some trilateral training involving Japan. Earlier this week, the South Korean, U.S. and Japanese militaries conducted their first-ever trilateral aerial exercise near the Korean Peninsula.

On Thursday, South Koreas navy said it has been holding a large-scale maritime drill off the Korean Peninsulas west coast this week as part of broader annual military training. This years maritime drill, which involves live-firing exercises, drew U.S. military helicopters and patrol aircraft as well, according to a navy statement.

North Korea didnt immediately comment on the drill. But it has previously slammed U.S-South Korean exercises as invasion rehearsals and responded with missile tests.
A man suspected of killing the Maryland judge who ruled against him in a divorce case last week was found dead Thursday in a heavily wooded area not far from where the shooting unfolded, ending a weeklong search that rocked the largely rural community.

Authorities believe Pedro Argote, 49, was angry about losing custody of his children when he shot and killed the judge. The Oct. 19 attack unfolded outside the home of Washington County Circuit Court Judge Andrew Wilkinson, who was shot in his driveway.

Hours earlier, Wilkinson had presided over a hearing in which Argotes wife and daughter delivered emotional testimony about the abuse he inflicted upon them for years. Argote was not present at the hearing, which concluded with Wilkinson ruling against him and awarding his wife sole custody of their four children.

Law enforcement launched a search for Argote almost immediately after the shooting. On Saturday, they discovered his SUV in a wooded area in Williamsport, about 8 miles (13 kilometers) southwest of Hagerstown, where the judge was shot.

Authorities searched the area where the vehicle was found and concluded Argote wasnt there. But officials said Thursday morning that they had returned to the area to conduct additional evidentiary searches and found the body.

We hastily searched that area, but we were just going over it systematically today, said Washington County Sheriff Brian Albert, at a news conference Thursday.

Albert said officials couldnt yet answer questions about the time or cause of Argotes death, pending an autopsy examination. However, officials and Wilkinson's family were relieved that the suspect's body was located. Some law enforcement officers came to the news conference from a viewing for Wilkinson, where they visited with his family.

Its a relief, but its still a tragedy that were dealing with  kind of a somber moment for us, Albert said in response to a question about the Wilkinson familys reaction.

Washington County Attorney Kirk Downey, who worked with Wilkinson in the county attorneys office more than a decade ago, learned of the suspects death as he also prepared to attend the viewing. Downey said the discovery will bring some measure of relief to a community that has remained on edge for nearly a week.

Im still in disbelief that this has happened, he said of his friends killing. Its just so senseless and tragic.

In a statement Thursday afternoon, the Maryland judiciary praised the work of law enforcement and asked for privacy on behalf of Wilkinsons family.

We continue to grieve the loss of our colleague and friend while supporting the Wilkinson family, the judges and staff of the Circuit Court for Washington County, and the entire Hagerstown and broader Washington County community, the statement said.

A funeral for Wilkinson, 52, is scheduled for Friday morning in Hagerstown.

During testimony at the hearing last week, Argotes relatives said he controlled every aspect of their lives, keeping them isolated and subjecting them to various acts of violence in recent years.

Wilkinson said he found Argote abusive in multiple ways.

The recent divorce hearing lasted two days. During the first half, which took place Sept. 26, Argote represented himself. He at times expressed frustration, but his voice remained calm and he often addressed the judge respectfully as your honor. Argote failed to appear for the second half of the hearing last week. Instead, he called the courthouse saying he had a headache.

The judge ruled out visitation rights and barred Argote from contacting his children or visiting the familys house.

Hours later, authorities say, he showed up in Wilkinsons driveway.

The circuit court judge was a longtime resident of Hagerstown and heavily involved in the community. The city of nearly 44,000 lies about 75 miles (120 kilometers) northwest of Baltimore in the panhandle of Maryland.

Skene reported from Baltimore. Associated Press reporter Michael Kunzelman contributed from Silver Spring, Maryland.
jimkruger / Getty Images

Over the years, Target has grown to be more than just a regular brick-and-mortar retailer. The company has added store-within-a-store concepts  Starbucks, Ulta Beauty, Disney sections and other mini-stores  as well as 48 of its own private-label brands onto its shelves.

Discover: 8 Best Items To Buy at Dollar Tree This Fall

Learn: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

Retailers have partnered with celebrities and other big-name brands to launch successful private labels. Many stores focused on improving packaging, while others focused on improving quality. According to experts interviewed by Retail Dive, Target changed its plain, cheap and low-quality perception that many store-owned brands had for years.

Target has earned this reputation over decades in the business with their store brands, Bob Hoyler, consultant at Euromonitor, said to Retail Dive. I dont think [retailers] can automatically bank on this being a success.

Target is adding more labels all the time. The chain recently added the famous direct-to-consumer brand Our Place cookware to 650 locations and its website, The Street reported. Partnering with Target and other brands, such as Amazon and Nordstrom, will be able to significantly expand the companys reach. According to Targets website, differentiating with owned bands and a curated selection of national products is core to the companys strategy, and what all guests can expect when shopping at Target.

Find Out: 5 Things You Should Always Buy at Estate Sales

You may be familiar with some of Targets most famous brands, including Cat & Jack and Threshold, but there are several other Target-owned brands that you wont find on shelves at Costco or Walmart.



A New Day

All in Motion

Art Class

Auden

AVA & VIV

Boots & Barkley

Brightroom

Bullseyes Playground

Casaluna

Cat & Jack

Cloud Island

Colsie

Embark

Favorite Day

Figmint

Future Collective

Good & Gather

Goodfellow & Co

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia

Heyday

Hyde & EEK! Boutique

JoyLab

Kindfull

Knox Rose

Kona Sol

Made By Design

Market Pantry

Mondo Llama

More Than Magic

Opalhouse

Open Story

Original Use

Pillowfort

Project 62

Room Essentials

Shade & Shore

Smartly

Smith & Hawken

Sonia Kashuk

Spritz

Stars Above

Sun Squad

Threshold

Universal Thread

Up & up

Wild Fable

Wondershop

Xhilaration

Story continues

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 48 Target-Owned Brands You Wont Find at Costco or Walmart
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP)  The Taliban have freed an Afghan activist who campaigned for the education of girls, a local nonprofit organization said Thursday. Matiullah Wesa was arrested seven months ago and spent 215 days in prison, according to the group, Pen Path.

Wesa has been outspoken in his demands for girls to have the right to go to school and repeatedly called on the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan to reverse its bans on female education.

Since their takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021, the Taliban have barred girls from school beyond the sixth grade. Last December, they banned women from going to universities. Afghanistan is the only country in the world with restrictions on female education.

After his release, Wesa thanked his friends for their support and vowed to continue his work.

Our hopes and goals will not change, nor will they be broken, we will continue our charitable services, he tweeted. I will share the whole process and (details of the) prison situation later.

Wesa's brother Ataullah challenged the seven-month detention.

Why is a person arrested if he is working for the basic rights of a nation or generation? Ataullah said in a message to The Associated Press. He is not guilty. He did not commit any crime.

He declined to comment on his brother's treatment in prison and said it was Pen Path's social and civic responsibility to continue working in the education field.

The U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Afghanistan, Richard Bennett, welcomed the news about Wesa.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Bennett also called for the immediate and unconditional release of all Afghanistan human rights defenders who are arbitrarily detained for standing up for their own rights & the human rights of others."

Amnesty International said that Wesa should never have been jailed for promoting girls' rights to education.

The Taliban de-facto authorities must release human rights defenders and women protesters Rasool Parsi, Neda Parwani, Zholia Parsi and Manizha Sediqi and all others who are unfairly kept behind bars for standing up for equality and denouncing repression, the rights group tweeted.

Prior to his arrest, Wesa and others from Pen Path launched a door-to-door campaign to promote girls education.

We have been volunteering for 14 years to reach people and convey the message for girls education, Wesa said in social media posts. During the past 18 months we campaigned house-to-house in order to eliminate illiteracy and to end all our miseries.

Attaullah said Taliban forces surrounded the family home in late March, beat family members, and confiscated Matiullahs cellphone.
LEWISTON, Maine (AP)  Authorities say a U.S. Army reservist fatally shot 18 people at a bowling alley and a restaurant in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday night. A massive search for 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin was launched until he was found dead Friday.

The shooting in Maine's second-largest city is the 36th mass killing in the United States this year, according to a database maintained by The Associated Press and USA Today in partnership with Northeastern University. The database includes every mass killing since 2006 from all weapons in which four or more people, excluding the offender, were killed within a 24-hour time frame.

Here is what we know about the suspect and his death, where the shooting happened and the aftermath:

WHO IS THE SUSPECT AND WHAT HAPPENED TO HIM?

Police identified the suspect in the deadly attack as 40-year-old Robert Card of Bowdoin, Maine. Gov. Janet Mills said at a Friday night news conference that Card had been found dead in nearby Lisbon Falls.

Police found Cards body at a recycling facility where he recently worked.

Department of Public Safety Commissioner Michael Sauschuck said teams had scoured the Maine Recycling Corp. property Thursday night. He said another state police team returned Friday and found Cards body alongside several guns in a trailer that hadnt been searched.

Card died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, Sauschuck said.

Jim Ferguson, the ATF special agent in charge in Boston, told The Associated Press that the weapons used in the shooting had been purchased legally. Many firearms were recovered although he declined to say their make, model or how many exactly.

There were a lot more than three, Ferguson said.

Card was an Army reservist who had been taken by police for an evaluation after military officials became concerned that he was acting erratically in mid-July, officials said.

The New York Army National Guard said the Army Reserves 3rd Battalion, 304th Infantry Regiment, became concerned about Cards behavior while the unit was training at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York.

Cards relatives told federal investigators that he recently discussed hearing voices and became more focused on the bowling alley and bar in Lewiston, officials said.

At a Saturday press conference, Sauschuck said Card had a history of mental illness, but there was no evidence that he had ever been involuntarily committed. Just because there appears to be a mental health nexus to this scenario, the vast majority of people with mental health diagnosis will never hurt anybody, he said.

As for why Card chose his targets, Sauschuck said it was likely due to paranoia, that he thought people were talking about him.

He also said that a note found in Cards home was meant for a loved one with the passcode to his phone and bank account numbers. Sauschuck said he wouldnt describe it as an explicit suicide note but that its tone indicated that was the intent.

WHERE DID THE SHOOTING TAKE PLACE?

Lewiston Police said the shooting took place on Wednesday evening at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Just-In-Time Recreation, a bowling alley about 4 miles (6.4 kilometers) away. A number of parents and children were at Just-In-Time as part of a childrens bowling league.

The bowling alley is on the outskirts of downtown and offers traditional tenpin bowling and candlepin, a variant found in New England.

Lewiston is the second-largest city in Maine with a population of 37,000.

Maine has a longstanding culture of gun ownership tied to traditions of hunting and sport shooting. The state doesnt require permits to carry guns.

WHAT IS THE AFTERMATH?

Sauschuck said that Cards family called investigators to provide his name to law enforcement soon after police released surveillance pictures of the shooter.

This family has been incredibly cooperative with us, Sauschuck said. Truth be told the first three people that called us ... were family members.

Sauschuck also named all 18 victims at a news conference Friday and said their families had been notified. Photos of the victims were posted on a board as he read the names. A moment of silence followed.

According to Maine State Police, seven people died Wednesday night at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley. Six were male and one was female. Eight more people, all male, died at Schemengees Bar and Grille. Three others died after being taken to hospitals.

The deceased ranged in age from 14 to 76. A teen bowler, a shipbuilder and a sign language interpreter were among the dead.

The death toll was staggering for a state that had 29 homicides in all of 2022. The attack was the worst mass killing in state history.

Police and other authorities had issued a shelter-in-place order for residents during the massive search for Card on land and water. The Canada Border Services Agency issued an armed and dangerous alert to its officers stationed along the Canada-U.S. border, warning them to be on the lookout for Card.

Maines largest city, Portland, closed public buildings. Some Portland restaurants and bars closed their doors, bringing an unusual quiet to the typically bustling downtown.

President Joe Biden has ordered all U.S. flags to be flown at half-staff until sunset on Monday.

In a statement following the announcement of Card's death, Biden said the aftermath of the shooting has been a tragic two days  not just for Lewiston, Maine, but for our entire country.

Tonight were grateful that Lewiston and surrounding communities are safe after spending excruciating days hiding in their homes," said Biden. He praised law enforcement officers who worked around the clock to find this suspect and prevent the loss of more innocent life  all while risking their own. They are the best of us."
BEIJING and TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- ADAMA Ltd. (SZSE: 000553), a leading global crop protection company, today announced wider availability of Apresa, a pre-emergent pre-mix herbicide that delivers broad spectrum weed control with up to 20% higher efficacy compared to tank mixed solutions.

Adama_Agricultural_Solutions_Logo

Containing two complementary modes of action at a high concentration, Apresa eliminates hard-to-control grass and broadleaf weeds while providing a strong residual effect for soybeans and other crops in a simple and safe application for pre-emergence uses.

The product uses ADAMA's proprietary TOV oil dispersion formulation technology, which maximizes the potential of its dual active ingredients.

"Our customers are always looking for ways to streamline their crop protection efforts, and Apresa enables that with its tough, concentrated power in an easy-to-use solution that is excellent for regenerative agriculture," said Romeu Stanguerlin, SVP Latin America at ADAMA. "This early season weed control enhances crop yield and quality, and eases harvest due to clean fields. In an innovative formulation, Apresa offers less UV degradation, better straw transposition, synergistic effect and crop safety."

After more than 200 trials in recent years in soybean, corn and other crops, Apresa was found to be highly effective against several key weeds including Amaranthus sp., Goosegrass, Sourgrass and many others. Its performance has been recognized by advisors, researchers, and farmers as an excellent tool for Weed Resistance Management (WRM) with a long-lasting effect, often season-long control.

Since its highly successful launch in Brazil last year, followed by Argentina and Paraguay earlier this year, Apresa is expected to become one of the main pre-emergent herbicides for use in soybean fields in South American countries. Besides soybean, it can be used on corn, peanuts, sugarcane, specific vegetables and forestry.

Story continues

About ADAMA

ADAMA Ltd. is a global leader in crop protection, providing solutions to farmers across the world to combat weeds, insects and diseases. ADAMA has one of the widest and most diverse portfolios of active ingredients in the world, as well as state-of-the-art R&D, manufacturing and formulation facilities. With a culture that empowers our people to listen to farmers and ideate from the field, ADAMA is uniquely positioned to offer a vast array of distinctive mixtures, formulations and high-quality differentiated products, delivering solutions that meet local farmer and customer needs in over 100 countries globally. For more information, visit us at www.ADAMA.com and follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @ADAMAAgri.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/799829/Adama_Agricultural_Solutions_Logo.jpg

ADAMA contact:

Tal Moise

Public Relations

pr@adama.com

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/adama-expands-availability-of-apresa-in-south-america-highly-effective-herbicide-for-soybean-corn-and-other-crops-301968457.html

SOURCE ADAMA Ltd.
Transparency Market Research

Growing oil and gas industries and their thermal insulation properties are expected to drive aerogel demand

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc. - A market valuation of US$ 1 billion was projected for aerogels in 2022. Between 2023 and 2031, the market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 13.6%. By 2031, the aerogels market is expected to reach US$ 3.2 billion.



Manufacturers can tailor aerogels to meet specific requirements. Aerogel companies may also seek growth through diversification into new sectors and markets. A number of economic factors can influence the aerogels market, including manufacturing capabilities and raw material costs. A change in these factors could positively impact the market.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=1044

Regulations regarding certain chemicals or materials may influence aerogel market dynamics. Environmental concerns and sustainable manufacturing practices can also shape the industry's development. Due to their low density and remarkable insulating properties, NASA and other space agencies have used aerogels for many years. For space exploration and satellite applications, aerogels were expected to continue to be in high demand.

Key Findings of Market Report

Increasing industrialization and expansion of the oil and gas sector are driving market growth for aerogels.

Silica aerogels are expected to hold a dominant position on the global market over the forecast period.

Electric vehicle (EV) battery insulation and rapidly evolving battery technologies are expected to drive a significant.

Technological advancement and increased research and development activities to drive the market.

A growing demand for energy-efficient and sustainable materials will drive demand for aerogels.



Aerogels Market Drivers

An aerogel is used to clean up oil spills and other environmental contaminants. With environmental concerns and regulations on the rise, aerogels will continue to be in high demand as a cleanup solution. Materials science and nanotechnology research and development continue to uncover new uses for aerogels. As a result, the market is expanding.

Aerogels are becoming more accessible to a wide range of applications due to advances in production methods and cost-reduction efforts. With the decrease in production costs, aerogels become more feasible in a wide range of industries. As sustainability has taken center stage, aerogels have become increasingly popular as a material with low environmental impact. Companies were looking for ways to recycle aerogels and make them from renewable resources.

Various innovative applications have been developed for aerogels, including lightweight composite materials for the aerospace and automotive industries, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. Aerogels with enhanced properties at the nanoscale are becoming increasingly popular with advancements in nanotechnology. Performance are improved, and new applications are created.



Story continues

Global Market for Aerogels Regional Outlook

Aerogels are expected to be the fastest-growing market in North America. As insulation materials, aerogels play an important role in oil, gas, and construction industries.

North American companies are seeking energy-efficient solutions, which could spur the use of aerogels in these fields. Aerogels could be adopted as lightweight, energy-efficient materials that help reduce carbon emissions as a result of the growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental regulations in North America.

Aerogels are expected to dominate the market in the Asia Pacific region. Asian countries are adopting stringent energy efficiency and greenhouse gas emission standards due to an increased focus on sustainability and environmental conservation.

As a result, aerogels can be used in industry and construction to meet these standards, reducing energy consumption and emissions. Urbanization and economic growth are driving infrastructure development in Asia-Pacific. For areas with extreme temperatures, aerogels are used to improve the insulation value of concrete and plaster.

Enquiry Before Buying @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=EB&rep_id=1044

Key Players in the Aerogels Industry

Several small to medium-sized aerogel manufacturers compete with one another and with large enterprises across the global market, according to the global aerogel market research analysis. As a result of significant investments in research and development, a number of companies have been able to adopt and develop next-generation technologies successfully.

Leading market players are implementing innovative strategies to stay ahead of the aerogels market trends. Product portfolio expansion and mergers and acquisitions are some of the major strategies employed by the company.

Key Players in Aerogels Include

Aspen Aerogels, Inc.

Cabot Corporation

Aerogel Technologies, LLC

Active Aerogels, LDA

BASF SE

JIOS Aerogel Corporation

Nano Technology Co., Ltd.

Dow, Inc.

Enersens

Guangdong Alison Hi-Tech

Armacell

Svenska Aerogel

Others



Key Developments in the Global Aerogels Market

On February 10, 2023 , Svenska Aerogel announced it had completed one-third of the Quartzene optimization project. Svenska Aerogel and one of the worlds leading manufacturers of quartzene in mid-2022 entered into a collaboration agreement.

In May 2023, Boston-headquartered Cabot Corporation announced the launch of three Entera airgel products to aid in the development of lithium-ion battery thermal barriers for electric vehicles (EVs).

Market Segmentation for Aerogels Market

Type Silica Aerogels Metal Aerogels Carbon Aerogels Others

Form Monolith Powder Film Others

Application Battery Packs Optical Fibers Thermal & Acoustical Insulation Electronic Devices Capacitors Imaging Devices Catalysts Pesticides Others

End-use Automotive Building & Construction Oil & Gas Electrical & Electronics Medical Agriculture Aerospace Others





Region

North America

Latin America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa



Place an Order Copy of Aerogels Market Report at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=1044<ype=S

About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact:

Nikhil Sawlani

Transparency Market Research Inc.

CORPORATE HEADQUARTER DOWNTOWN,

1000 N. West Street,

Suite 1200, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 USA

Tel: +1-518-618-1030

USA  Canada Toll Free: 866-552-3453

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Lifeworks Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm acquired 721 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $219,000.

Several other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in HCA. RB Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 25.9% in the first quarter. RB Capital Management LLC now owns 2,432 shares of the companys stock valued at $610,000 after acquiring an additional 501 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 18.6% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 11,035 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,766,000 after acquiring an additional 1,730 shares in the last quarter. Prudential PLC acquired a new stake in HCA Healthcare during the first quarter worth approximately $1,083,000. Cetera Investment Advisers raised its holdings in HCA Healthcare by 1.3% during the first quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 4,499 shares of the companys stock worth $1,128,000 after purchasing an additional 56 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Sequoia Financial Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in HCA Healthcare during the first quarter worth approximately $248,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 62.73% of the companys stock.

Get HCA Healthcare alerts:

HCA Healthcare Stock Performance

Shares of HCA stock opened at $230.06 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 79.26, a quick ratio of 1.03 and a current ratio of 1.20. The stock has a market cap of $62.57 billion, a PE ratio of 11.32, a P/E/G ratio of 1.26 and a beta of 1.62. HCA Healthcare, Inc. has a 1 year low of $207.24 and a 1 year high of $304.86. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $258.06 and a 200 day moving average price of $272.27.

HCA Healthcare Dividend Announcement

HCA Healthcare ( NYSE:HCA Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 24th. The company reported $3.91 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $3.97 by ($0.06). HCA Healthcare had a net margin of 9.32% and a negative return on equity of 12,765.76%. The business had revenue of $16.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $15.77 billion. Sell-side analysts forecast that HCA Healthcare, Inc. will post 18.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 28th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 14th will be issued a $0.60 dividend. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.04%. HCA Healthcares dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 11.81%.

Insider Activity at HCA Healthcare

In other HCA Healthcare news, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total value of $1,400,500.48. Following the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,317,811.20. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, SVP Jeffrey E. Cohen sold 1,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.00, for a total transaction of $405,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now owns 4,414 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,191,780. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, SVP Kathryn A. Torres sold 5,204 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, August 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $269.12, for a total transaction of $1,400,500.48. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 19,760 shares of the companys stock, valued at $5,317,811.20. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold a total of 9,620 shares of company stock valued at $2,592,820 over the last quarter. Insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms have recently commented on HCA. 1-800-FLOWERS.COM reiterated a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Oppenheimer increased their price objective on HCA Healthcare from $310.00 to $315.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Friday, July 28th. VNET Group reiterated a maintains rating on shares of HCA Healthcare in a research report on Wednesday, June 28th. Barclays raised their price target on HCA Healthcare from $275.00 to $300.00 in a report on Wednesday, June 28th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on HCA Healthcare from $275.00 to $267.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 20th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have given a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $306.36.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on HCA Healthcare

HCA Healthcare Profile

(Free Report)

HCA Healthcare, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides health care services in the United States. It operates general and acute care hospitals that offers medical and surgical services, including inpatient care, intensive care, cardiac care, diagnostic, and emergency services; and outpatient services, such as outpatient surgery, laboratory, radiology, respiratory therapy, cardiology, and physical therapy.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding HCA? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for HCA Healthcare, Inc. (NYSE:HCA  Free Report).

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Baystate Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Co. (NYSE:EW  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor acquired 2,483 shares of the medical research companys stock, valued at approximately $234,000.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of EW. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 98,836.3% during the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 759,315,387 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $71,626,220,000 after purchasing an additional 758,547,908 shares during the last quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC grew its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 104,971.3% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 15,399,249 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $1,148,938,000 after purchasing an additional 15,384,593 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank purchased a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences during the 4th quarter valued at about $658,390,000. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main grew its position in Edwards Lifesciences by 655.9% during the 4th quarter. DZ BANK AG Deutsche Zentral Genossenschafts Bank Frankfurt am Main now owns 2,325,457 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $173,502,000 after purchasing an additional 2,017,801 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Bank of Montreal Can purchased a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences during the 2nd quarter valued at about $121,091,000. 79.25% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Get Edwards Lifesciences alerts:

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

EW has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Jefferies Financial Group increased their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $103.00 to $107.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 25th. SVB Leerink began coverage on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Monday, October 16th. They set a market perform rating and a $75.00 price target on the stock. Oppenheimer raised shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $90.00 price target on the stock in a report on Tuesday, September 26th. TheStreet downgraded shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a b- rating to a c+ rating in a report on Wednesday, August 9th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating and set a $102.00 price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Friday, July 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have given a hold rating and eight have given a buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Edwards Lifesciences currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $90.71.

Edwards Lifesciences Price Performance

NYSE EW opened at $68.36 on Thursday. Edwards Lifesciences Co. has a 12 month low of $66.66 and a 12 month high of $94.87. The stock has a market cap of $41.56 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.25, a PEG ratio of 3.48 and a beta of 1.05. The companys 50 day moving average is $72.87 and its two-hundred day moving average is $82.04. The company has a current ratio of 3.15, a quick ratio of 2.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 25th. The medical research company reported $0.59 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.59. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 24.56% and a return on equity of 25.43%. The company had revenue of $1.48 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.48 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $0.61 EPS. The firms revenue was up 12.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Co. will post 2.55 earnings per share for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Donald E. Bobo, Jr. sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.98, for a total transaction of $349,900.00. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 39,503 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,764,419.94. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Edwards Lifesciences news, VP Donald E. Bobo, Jr. sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $69.98, for a total transaction of $349,900.00. Following the sale, the vice president now owns 39,503 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,764,419.94. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 7,255 shares of Edwards Lifesciences stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $84.35, for a total transaction of $611,959.25. Following the sale, the chief financial officer now owns 19,248 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,623,568.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 184,359 shares of company stock worth $13,817,172. Company insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Edwards Lifesciences Profile

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease, and critical care and surgical monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of heart valves; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases.

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AMG National Trust Bank decreased its holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 4.1% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 22,888 shares of the companys stock after selling 990 shares during the quarter. AMG National Trust Banks holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $2,234,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently bought and sold shares of PM. Green Square Capital Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the second quarter worth approximately $232,000. Herold Advisors Inc. increased its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 8.6% during the second quarter. Herold Advisors Inc. now owns 5,484 shares of the companys stock worth $535,000 after purchasing an additional 434 shares during the period. EP Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Philip Morris International during the first quarter worth approximately $98,000. Clear Harbor Asset Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 59.0% during the first quarter. Clear Harbor Asset Management LLC now owns 4,214 shares of the companys stock worth $410,000 after purchasing an additional 1,563 shares during the period. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. increased its stake in Philip Morris International by 13.7% during the 2nd quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 200,438 shares of the companys stock worth $19,567,000 after acquiring an additional 24,207 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 79.70% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

PM has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Morgan Stanley lowered their price objective on Philip Morris International from $118.00 to $113.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 2nd. StockNews.com started coverage on Philip Morris International in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating on the stock. Bank of America lowered their target price on Philip Morris International from $118.00 to $111.00 in a research report on Friday, September 29th. UBS Group lowered their target price on Philip Morris International from $116.00 to $112.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus reissued a buy rating and issued a $114.00 price objective on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Monday, October 2nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $109.42.

Philip Morris International Price Performance

Shares of Philip Morris International stock opened at $89.99 on Thursday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a one year low of $88.17 and a one year high of $105.62. The firm has a market capitalization of $139.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.48, a PEG ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.71. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $93.73 and a 200 day simple moving average of $95.31.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.62 by $0.05. The business had revenue of $9.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.21 billion. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 129.48% and a net margin of 11.41%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 13.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.53 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.22 EPS for the current year.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 12th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, September 27th were paid a $1.30 dividend. This represents a $5.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.78%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 26th. This is an increase from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.27. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is presently 100.97%.

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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Eldorado Gold Co. (NYSE:EGO  Get Free Report) (TSE:ELD) has received an average recommendation of Hold from the eight analysts that are presently covering the firm, Marketbeat.com reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, two have given a hold recommendation and four have issued a buy recommendation on the company. The average 12 month price target among brokers that have covered the stock in the last year is $13.40.

EGO has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Stifel Nicolaus upgraded shares of Eldorado Gold from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 11th. StockNews.com upgraded shares of Eldorado Gold from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and set a $9.50 price target on shares of Eldorado Gold in a research note on Tuesday, August 8th. CSFB dropped their price target on shares of Eldorado Gold from $10.75 to $9.00 and set an underperform rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. Finally, Stifel Canada upgraded shares of Eldorado Gold from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 11th.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Eldorado Gold Price Performance

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in EGO. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in shares of Eldorado Gold by 2.4% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 70,132 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $625,000 after purchasing an additional 1,630 shares in the last quarter. U S Global Investors Inc. increased its stake in shares of Eldorado Gold by 361.3% during the 3rd quarter. U S Global Investors Inc. now owns 346,004 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $3,083,000 after purchasing an additional 271,004 shares in the last quarter. National Bank of Canada FI increased its stake in shares of Eldorado Gold by 9.8% during the 3rd quarter. National Bank of Canada FI now owns 508,821 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $4,286,000 after purchasing an additional 45,217 shares in the last quarter. Alberta Investment Management Corp increased its stake in shares of Eldorado Gold by 46.5% during the 2nd quarter. Alberta Investment Management Corp now owns 103,400 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $1,048,000 after purchasing an additional 32,800 shares in the last quarter. Finally, GTS Securities LLC purchased a new position in shares of Eldorado Gold during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $899,000. 58.23% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Shares of NYSE:EGO opened at $10.21 on Thursday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $9.44 and a 200-day simple moving average of $10.06. Eldorado Gold has a one year low of $5.28 and a one year high of $12.11. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 2.67 and a current ratio of 3.75. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.09 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 127.64 and a beta of 1.24.

Eldorado Gold (NYSE:EGO  Get Free Report) (TSE:ELD) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, July 27th. The basic materials company reported $0.09 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.07 by $0.02. Eldorado Gold had a net margin of 1.48% and a return on equity of 1.67%. The business had revenue of $229.86 million for the quarter. On average, analysts predict that Eldorado Gold will post 0.31 EPS for the current year.

Eldorado Gold Company Profile

(Get Free Report

Eldorado Gold Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mining, exploration, development, and sale of mineral products primarily in Turkey, Canada, Greece, and Romania. The company primarily produces gold, as well as silver, lead, and zinc. It holds a 100% interest in the Kisladag and Efemcukuru gold mines located in western Turkey; Lamaque gold mines located in Canada; and Olympias, Stratoni, Skouries, Perama Hill, and Sapes gold mines located in Greece, as well as the 80.5% interest in Certej development projects located in Romania.

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Bank of Montreal Can bought a new stake in Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:BX  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm bought 696,253 shares of the asset managers stock, valued at approximately $65,371,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Tower Bridge Advisors raised its stake in Blackstone by 12.0% during the first quarter. Tower Bridge Advisors now owns 17,324 shares of the asset managers stock worth $1,522,000 after acquiring an additional 1,850 shares in the last quarter. Advisor OS LLC increased its position in Blackstone by 7.0% during the 1st quarter. Advisor OS LLC now owns 8,666 shares of the asset managers stock worth $761,000 after purchasing an additional 568 shares in the last quarter. Altfest L J & Co. Inc. acquired a new stake in Blackstone in the first quarter valued at approximately $240,000. Old North State Trust LLC grew its stake in shares of Blackstone by 7.3% during the first quarter. Old North State Trust LLC now owns 5,966 shares of the asset managers stock worth $524,000 after buying an additional 405 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Arizona State Retirement System lifted its stake in shares of Blackstone by 5.4% in the 2nd quarter. Arizona State Retirement System now owns 201,913 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $18,772,000 after acquiring an additional 10,297 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 63.35% of the companys stock.

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Blackstone Stock Down 3.4 %

Blackstone stock opened at $91.91 on Thursday. Blackstone Inc. has a 12-month low of $71.72 and a 12-month high of $116.78. The company has a market capitalization of $65.23 billion, a PE ratio of 38.62, a PEG ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.47. The firms fifty day moving average is $105.09 and its 200 day moving average is $96.46. The company has a quick ratio of 0.92, a current ratio of 0.84 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.69.

Blackstone Increases Dividend

Blackstone ( NYSE:BX Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 19th. The asset manager reported $0.94 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.01 by ($0.07). Blackstone had a net margin of 21.29% and a return on equity of 16.76%. The firm had revenue of $2.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.60 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.06 EPS. The companys revenue was up 140.2% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Blackstone Inc. will post 3.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 6th. Stockholders of record on Monday, October 30th will be paid a $0.80 dividend. This is a positive change from Blackstones previous quarterly dividend of $0.79. The ex-dividend date is Friday, October 27th. This represents a $3.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.48%. Blackstones dividend payout ratio is presently 132.77%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on BX shares. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Blackstone in a report on Wednesday, October 4th. They issued a market perform rating for the company. Piper Sandler lifted their target price on shares of Blackstone from $107.00 to $115.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, July 21st. HSBC started coverage on shares of Blackstone in a research report on Friday, October 6th. They issued a hold rating and a $113.00 price target for the company. TheStreet raised shares of Blackstone from a c+ rating to a b rating in a research note on Thursday, July 20th. Finally, Oppenheimer cut their target price on Blackstone from $107.00 to $105.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Friday, October 20th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have assigned a hold rating and eleven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $110.22.

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Insider Activity

In other news, Director William G. Parrett sold 3,874 shares of Blackstone stock in a transaction on Friday, September 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.47, for a total transaction of $435,708.78. Following the sale, the director now directly owns 30,941 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,479,934.27. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other Blackstone news, major shareholder Holdings I/Ii Gp L. Blackstone sold 14,704,603 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $7.98, for a total value of $117,342,731.94. Following the completion of the sale, the insider now directly owns 43,602 shares of the companys stock, valued at $347,943.96. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, Director William G. Parrett sold 3,874 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, September 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.47, for a total value of $435,708.78. Following the transaction, the director now owns 30,941 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,479,934.27. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 17,381,651 shares of company stock valued at $198,022,087 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 1.00% of the companys stock.

Blackstone Profile

(Free Report)

Blackstone Inc is an alternative asset management firm specializing in real estate, private equity, hedge fund solutions, credit, secondary funds of funds, public debt and equity and multi-asset class strategies. The firm typically invests in early-stage companies. It also provide capital markets services.

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Shares of Boliden AB (publ) (OTCMKTS:BDNNY  Get Free Report) have been given an average recommendation of Hold by the thirteen brokerages that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat.com reports. Two analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, seven have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the company.

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on the stock. Sanford C. Bernstein raised shares of Boliden AB (publ) from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 4th. Barclays raised shares of Boliden AB (publ) from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, July 10th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised shares of Boliden AB (publ) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 5th. Finally, Citigroup raised shares of Boliden AB (publ) from a sell rating to a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, September 13th.

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Boliden AB (publ) Price Performance

Boliden AB (publ) Company Profile

Boliden AB (publ) stock opened at $49.48 on Thursday. Boliden AB has a 1-year low of $48.66 and a 1-year high of $92.60. The companys 50-day moving average is $53.82 and its 200 day moving average is $60.49.

(Get Free Report

Boliden AB (publ) engages in the exploring, extracting, and processing of base metals and precious metals in Sweden, other Nordic region, Germany, the United Kingdom, the rest of Europe, North America, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Business Area Mines and Business Area Smelters.

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Brunswick (NYSE:BC  Get Free Report) issued an update on its FY23 earnings guidance on Thursday morning. The company provided EPS guidance of $9.00 for the period, compared to the consensus EPS estimate of $9.29. The company issued revenue guidance of $6.45-6.6 billion, compared to the consensus revenue estimate of $6.65 billion.

Brunswick Stock Performance

Shares of Brunswick stock opened at $65.00 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.60 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.04 and a beta of 1.53. The company has a quick ratio of 0.85, a current ratio of 1.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.15. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $77.21 and a 200 day moving average price of $81.10. Brunswick has a 52 week low of $64.55 and a 52 week high of $93.15.

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Brunswick (NYSE:BC  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $2.35 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.32 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $1.70 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.75 billion. Brunswick had a net margin of 8.21% and a return on equity of 33.86%. Brunswicks revenue was down 7.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm posted $2.82 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Brunswick will post 9.25 EPS for the current year.

Brunswick Dividend Announcement

Analysts Set New Price Targets

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, November 22nd will be given a $0.40 dividend. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.46%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 21st. Brunswicks payout ratio is currently 21.02%.

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on BC shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered shares of Brunswick from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and reduced their price target for the stock from $109.00 to $79.00 in a research report on Monday, September 11th. BMO Capital Markets cut their target price on shares of Brunswick from $122.00 to $105.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Friday, July 28th. Morgan Stanley initiated coverage on shares of Brunswick in a research note on Wednesday, September 27th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $84.00 price target on the stock. Raymond James lowered their target price on shares of Brunswick from $90.00 to $88.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, September 19th. Finally, Roth Mkm reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $91.00 target price on shares of Brunswick in a research note on Tuesday, September 19th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $94.80.

Read Our Latest Report on Brunswick

Institutional Trading of Brunswick

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. raised its holdings in Brunswick by 104.7% in the 4th quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. now owns 520 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after buying an additional 266 shares during the period. Fred Alger Management LLC purchased a new stake in Brunswick in the 1st quarter valued at about $40,000. Neo Ivy Capital Management purchased a new stake in Brunswick in the 2nd quarter valued at about $46,000. International Assets Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in Brunswick in the 1st quarter valued at about $52,000. Finally, Covestor Ltd raised its holdings in Brunswick by 200.3% in the 1st quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 961 shares of the companys stock valued at $78,000 after buying an additional 641 shares during the period. 94.44% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Brunswick Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Brunswick Corporation designs, manufactures, and markets recreation products worldwide. It operates through three segments: Propulsion, Parts & Accessories, and Boat. The Propulsion segment provides outboard, sterndrive, and inboard engines for independent boat builders and governments through marine dealers and distributors, specialty marine retailers, and marine service centers; and propulsion-related controls, rigging, and propellers to original equipment manufacturers and aftermarket retailers, distributors, and distribution businesses.

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CACI International Inc (NYSE:CACI  Get Free Report)s share price gapped down before the market opened on Thursday following a dissappointing earnings announcement. The stock had previously closed at $322.09, but opened at $302.21. CACI International shares last traded at $315.00, with a volume of 22,476 shares trading hands.

The information technology services provider reported $4.36 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $4.52 by ($0.16). CACI International had a net margin of 5.74% and a return on equity of 13.87%. The business had revenue of $1.85 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.68 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $4.36 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 15.2% on a year-over-year basis.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts have weighed in on CACI shares. Raymond James boosted their price target on CACI International from $340.00 to $370.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, August 11th. Bank of America upped their price target on shares of CACI International from $365.00 to $385.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of CACI International from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $405.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Wednesday, July 12th. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of CACI International in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Finally, TD Cowen lifted their price target on CACI International from $360.00 to $382.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 11th. Eleven investment analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, According to MarketBeat, CACI International presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $374.09.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Gregory G. Johnson sold 125 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 14th. The stock was sold at an average price of $319.82, for a total value of $39,977.50. Following the completion of the sale, the director now directly owns 5,998 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,918,280.36. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. 1.23% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of CACI International

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of CACI. Zions Bancorporation N.A. boosted its stake in shares of CACI International by 37.3% in the first quarter. Zions Bancorporation N.A. now owns 2,762 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $832,000 after buying an additional 751 shares during the period. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. lifted its position in shares of CACI International by 47.7% during the 1st quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 288 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $87,000 after acquiring an additional 93 shares during the period. Neuberger Berman Group LLC grew its holdings in shares of CACI International by 43.8% during the 1st quarter. Neuberger Berman Group LLC now owns 1,911 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $576,000 after purchasing an additional 582 shares in the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors increased its position in shares of CACI International by 435.5% in the second quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 4,943 shares of the information technology services providers stock worth $1,393,000 after purchasing an additional 4,020 shares during the period. Finally, Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio raised its stake in CACI International by 0.9% in the third quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 13,625 shares of the information technology services providers stock valued at $3,557,000 after purchasing an additional 122 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 87.30% of the companys stock.

CACI International Price Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 1.22, a current ratio of 1.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.51. The stock has a market capitalization of $7.15 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.43, a P/E/G ratio of 1.73 and a beta of 0.99. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $323.43 and its 200-day simple moving average is $323.87.

About CACI International

(Get Free Report)

CACI International Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides expertise and technology to enterprise and mission customers in support of national security missions and government modernization/transformation in the intelligence, defense, and federal civilian sectors. It operates through two segments: Domestic Operations and International Operations.

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Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF (BATS:XVV  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm purchased 5,933 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $203,000. Capital Asset Advisory Services LLC owned approximately 0.11% of iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. LPL Financial LLC increased its position in iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF by 10.0% during the second quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 11,433 shares of the companys stock worth $387,000 after purchasing an additional 1,041 shares during the last quarter. AdvisorNet Financial Inc acquired a new stake in shares of iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF during the second quarter valued at about $33,000. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. increased its position in shares of iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF by 5.1% during the second quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 24,043 shares of the companys stock valued at $813,000 after acquiring an additional 1,158 shares during the last quarter. Mercer Global Advisors Inc. ADV acquired a new stake in shares of iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF during the first quarter valued at about $311,000. Finally, Wick Capital Partners LLC increased its position in shares of iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF by 9.9% during the first quarter. Wick Capital Partners LLC now owns 32,343 shares of the companys stock valued at $999,000 after acquiring an additional 2,924 shares during the last quarter.

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iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF Trading Down 1.7 %

Shares of XVV opened at $31.70 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $166.40 million, a PE ratio of 18.44 and a beta of 1.02. The companys fifty day moving average is $33.20 and its 200-day moving average is $32.85.

About iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF

The iShares ESG Screened S&P 500 ETF (XVV) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the S&P 500 Sustainability Screened index. The fund tracks a market-cap weighted index of US large-caps caps screened for sustainability and excluding those with exposure to certain controversial business activities.

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Photo Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway/The Daily Beast/Getty

One of the biggest examples of fake news might have happened well before the internet age. The story goes that newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst once sent a photographer to Cuba in order to cover a rebellion against Spanish rule in 1897. However, upon arrival in the country, the photographer sent a telegram back to Hearst telling him that there was no war to reportto which Hearst replied, You furnish the pictures and Ill furnish the war.

True to his word, the newspaper magnate drummed up public support for the Cuban rebels with his sensationalized reporting of the conflict, eventually leading to the Spanish-American War.

While historians largely agree that the story likely never happened, the truth remains that the images and videos captured during times of war have the ability to change the very face of a conflict. The famous Napalm Girl image helped turn American sentiment against the Vietnam War. Pictures and videos of the concentration camps in Europe brought the Nazis atrocities out into the daylight.

However, with technologies like artificial intelligence and deepfakes proliferating more than ever, doctored or misleading images pose a profound challenge in fighting misinformation in times of warsomething that has come into stark relief during the Russo-Ukrainian War.

Turns Out Deepfakes Are Damn Good at Making Us Invent False Memories

Since Moscows invasion began in 2022, weve seen fake videos of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky surrendering to Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin announcing a peace deal with Ukraine, and even video game footage being used to claim that a single Ukrainian fighter pilot was taking down Russian aircraft with deadly precision.

Deepfakes loomed over social media during the invasion, John Twomey, a PhD student in applied psychology at the University College Cork in Ireland, told The Daily Beast in an email. The Ukraine government had been warning that they would be used in cyberwarfare for weeks before the infamous Zelensky deepfake happened. This was clearly something governments, media, and people had been aware was a possibility.

Story continues

Twomey co-authored a paper published Wednesday in the journal PLOS ONE looking at deepfakes related to the Russo-Ukrainian War and their impact on public perception of conflict. The study found that not only did the AI-generated videos create confusion and concern among the public and news media, they also contributed to the erosion of trust that users had in videos they saw coming from the warregardless of whether or not they were true. The paper is the first of its kind to look at the impact that such AI is having on war.

The authors analyzed nearly 5,000 tweets in English, German, and French from the first seven months of 2022. They noted that the Russo-Ukrainian War marked the beginning of AI-generated videos being used during wartimeoffering an incredibly rare and novel opportunity to study its effects on misinformation.

Inside the Underground World of Black Market AI Chatbots

The conflict spawned some of the most prominent examples of deepfake disinformation yet, Twomey said, but his team found that people employ healthy skepticism and prepared for the likelihood of deepfake media.

For example, the AI deepfake of Zelensky surrendering to Putin was swiftly debunked by the Ukrainian government and news media, as have most others.

The Zelensky video was really shittily done, Todd Helmus, a senior behavioral scientist at the RAND Corporation and expert on AI disinformation, told The Daily Beast. Nobody in Ukraine believed it and it didnt raise any concern in Ukraine.

However, he added that the video was important as it was one of the first big national security-focused deepfake videos that was intended to fool people and the technology, while still in its early stages and rough around the edges, will eventually be refined, more convincing, and potentially disastrous.

And with new conflict emerging, as evidenced by Hamas attack on Israel and the subsequent Israeli bombing campaign of Gaza, the technology holds greater potential than ever to spread misinformation and cause real-world harm.

We Need to Stop Freaking Out About AI Deepfakes

Certainly the use of deepfakes during the Russian invasion of Ukraine highlights that indeed deepfake media has the potential to play a role in any conflict, Twomey said. But how much of an impact that a deepfake may have? The jury is still out.

The studys authors added that their findings underscore a great need for deepfake literacy in the media and broader public to better identify what is true and what is simply a bot-made video.

However, this is a double-edged sword, Twomey said. Perhaps the greatest impact AI deepfakes have in the immediate future is in the erosion of public trust in any media that comes out of these conflicts. The more the public is aware of these deepfakes, the less theyre likely to trust any image or video.

Healthy skepticism is important, Twomey said. Ideally people are going to be able to balance an awareness of deepfakes with the knowledge that they arent very prevalent as it is. And to recognize the harms which come with accusing real media of being fake. People need to be aware that sometimes figuring out what is actually true can take time and not just rush to be the first person to call something fake.

This is ultimately a good thing, though, according to Helmus. People need to be able to adapt to technological changes. He likened it to the Orson Welles infamous radio broadcast of War of the Worlds that caused mass panic throughout the U.S. after listeners believed it to be real. Eventually, the public learned to take radio stories with a grain of salt. The same is true of AI deepfakes and social media. Rather the public have an immediate sense of skepticism when it comes to a video than believe a deepfake of Zelenksy surrendering to Putin.

In the meantime, policymakers can begin to employ regulations surrounding the technology behind these deepfakes in order to make them more easily identifiable as fakes. This could mean requiring watermarks in every AI-generated video or including devices on cameras that can verify that real images and videos are indeed real.

I dont think we have to be deeply concerned at this point about the future of civilization, Helmus said. I believe theres reason to believe that the world will adjust to this and we wont become a dystopian society. The worlds not ending yet. Maybe it will. But it hasnt ended yet.

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StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of China Green Agriculture (NYSE:CGA  Free Report) in a report published on Monday. The firm issued a sell rating on the basic materials companys stock.

China Green Agriculture Stock Performance

NYSE CGA opened at $2.07 on Monday. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $2.18 and a 200-day moving average price of $2.74. China Green Agriculture has a twelve month low of $1.61 and a twelve month high of $6.00. The company has a quick ratio of 2.04, a current ratio of 2.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.01.

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Institutional Trading of China Green Agriculture

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Susquehanna International Group LLP purchased a new position in shares of China Green Agriculture during the first quarter valued at about $175,000. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP bought a new position in China Green Agriculture during the first quarter valued at approximately $115,000. Finally, Renaissance Technologies LLC boosted its stake in China Green Agriculture by 67.8% during the first quarter. Renaissance Technologies LLC now owns 19,051 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $192,000 after buying an additional 7,700 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 0.74% of the companys stock.

China Green Agriculture Company Profile

China Green Agriculture, Inc, through its subsidiaries, engages in the research, development, production, and sale of various fertilizers and agricultural products in the People's Republic of China. The company operates through three segments: Jinong (Fertilizer Production); Gufeng (Fertilizer Production); and Yuxing (Agricultural Products Production).

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Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Fund grew its holdings in shares of Hormel Foods Co. (NYSE:HRL  Free Report) by 17.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 161,190 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 24,000 shares during the period. Fjarde AP Fonden Fourth Swedish National Pension Funds holdings in Hormel Foods were worth $6,483,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. raised its holdings in Hormel Foods by 217.1% in the 1st quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 650 shares of the companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 445 shares during the last quarter. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in Hormel Foods in the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Global Retirement Partners LLC raised its holdings in Hormel Foods by 60.5% in the 2nd quarter. Global Retirement Partners LLC now owns 878 shares of the companys stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 331 shares during the last quarter. Exos TFP Holdings LLC raised its holdings in Hormel Foods by 270.0% in the 1st quarter. Exos TFP Holdings LLC now owns 962 shares of the companys stock worth $38,000 after acquiring an additional 702 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Point72 Hong Kong Ltd purchased a new position in Hormel Foods in the 1st quarter worth approximately $41,000. 41.15% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have weighed in on the stock. StockNews.com assumed coverage on shares of Hormel Foods in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a hold rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their target price on shares of Hormel Foods from $36.00 to $31.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a research note on Monday, October 16th. Piper Sandler decreased their target price on shares of Hormel Foods from $41.00 to $35.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 13th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their target price on shares of Hormel Foods from $33.00 to $29.00 and set a sell rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 13th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and five have given a hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $40.00.

Hormel Foods Trading Up 3.7 %

Shares of HRL stock opened at $32.12 on Thursday. Hormel Foods Co. has a 1 year low of $30.70 and a 1 year high of $49.73. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $36.94 and a 200-day moving average price of $39.02. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 1.40 and a quick ratio of 0.65. The company has a market cap of $17.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.95, a PEG ratio of 3.68 and a beta of 0.20.

Hormel Foods (NYSE:HRL  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 31st. The company reported $0.40 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.41 by ($0.01). Hormel Foods had a net margin of 7.20% and a return on equity of 12.20%. The business had revenue of $2.96 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.04 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $0.40 EPS. The companys revenue was down 2.3% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, equities analysts predict that Hormel Foods Co. will post 1.64 earnings per share for the current year.

Hormel Foods Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, October 16th will be given a dividend of $0.275 per share. This represents a $1.10 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.42%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, October 13th. Hormel Foodss payout ratio is 68.32%.

Insider Activity

In other news, SVP Pierre M. Lilly bought 1,454 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 6th. The stock was bought at an average price of $37.25 per share, with a total value of $54,161.50. Following the acquisition, the senior vice president now owns 1,454 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $54,161.50. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. In other news, SVP Pierre M. Lilly bought 1,454 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 6th. The stock was bought at an average price of $37.25 per share, with a total value of $54,161.50. Following the acquisition, the senior vice president now owns 1,454 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $54,161.50. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, SVP Kevin L. Myers sold 5,200 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, October 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $30.93, for a total transaction of $160,836.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president now directly owns 38,937 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,204,321.41. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders own 0.81% of the companys stock.

Hormel Foods Profile

(Free Report)

Hormel Foods Corporation develops, processes, and distributes various meat, nuts, and food products to retail, foodservice, deli, and commercial customers in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: Grocery Products, Refrigerated Foods, Jennie-O Turkey Store, and International & Other.

Further Reading

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Gratus Capital LLC cut its stake in Carrier Global Co. (NYSE:CARR  Free Report) by 10.7% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 4,564 shares of the companys stock after selling 545 shares during the period. Gratus Capital LLCs holdings in Carrier Global were worth $227,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Covestor Ltd boosted its position in Carrier Global by 121.2% during the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 553 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 303 shares during the period. WealthPLAN Partners LLC purchased a new stake in Carrier Global during the first quarter valued at about $29,000. Nemes Rush Group LLC purchased a new stake in Carrier Global during the second quarter valued at about $29,000. Tradition Wealth Management LLC boosted its position in Carrier Global by 124.2% during the first quarter. Tradition Wealth Management LLC now owns 740 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after buying an additional 410 shares during the period. Finally, Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC boosted its position in Carrier Global by 95.2% during the first quarter. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 779 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after buying an additional 380 shares during the period. 91.47% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other Carrier Global news, insider Jurgen Timperman sold 164,450 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.25, for a total transaction of $9,743,662.50. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. In other Carrier Global news, VP Kyle Crockett sold 6,817 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.22, for a total transaction of $403,702.74. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 42 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,487.24. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. Also, insider Jurgen Timperman sold 164,450 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, July 31st. The shares were sold at an average price of $59.25, for a total transaction of $9,743,662.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.38% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Carrier Global Price Performance

Shares of NYSE CARR opened at $47.06 on Thursday. Carrier Global Co. has a twelve month low of $37.08 and a twelve month high of $60.04. The firm has a market cap of $39.42 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.67, a PEG ratio of 1.81 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a 50 day moving average of $54.22 and a 200 day moving average of $50.07. The company has a quick ratio of 1.19, a current ratio of 1.63 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04.

Carrier Global (NYSE:CARR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, July 27th. The company reported $0.79 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.76 by $0.03. Carrier Global had a net margin of 9.87% and a return on equity of 25.42%. The company had revenue of $6 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.83 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $0.69 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 15.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts expect that Carrier Global Co. will post 2.63 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Carrier Global Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 20th. Investors of record on Friday, October 27th will be issued a $0.185 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 26th. This represents a $0.74 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.57%. Carrier Globals payout ratio is currently 29.37%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

CARR has been the subject of several analyst reports. Wolfe Research lowered shares of Carrier Global from a peer perform rating to an underperform rating and set a $56.00 price target for the company. in a research report on Thursday, October 12th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut Carrier Global from a neutral rating to an underweight rating and set a $53.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Friday, October 6th. Barclays raised their target price on Carrier Global from $54.00 to $63.00 in a research note on Friday, July 28th. UBS Group raised their target price on Carrier Global from $47.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, September 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Carrier Global from $57.00 to $59.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, September 22nd. Three analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Carrier Global currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $55.89.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Carrier Global

Carrier Global Company Profile

(Free Report)

Carrier Global Corporation provides heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC), refrigeration, fire, security, and building automation technologies worldwide. It operates through three segments: HVAC, Refrigeration, and Fire & Security. The HVAC segment provides products, controls, services, and solutions to meet the heating, cooling, and ventilation needs of residential and commercial customers.

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Gratus Capital LLC cut its position in Edwards Lifesciences Co. (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 2.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 13,993 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 425 shares during the quarter. Gratus Capital LLCs holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $1,320,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Advisors Asset Management Inc. boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 0.3% during the first quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 43,556 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $5,127,000 after acquiring an additional 117 shares in the last quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 1.0% during the first quarter. Apollon Wealth Management LLC now owns 12,487 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $1,033,000 after acquiring an additional 119 shares in the last quarter. Geller Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 6.5% during the first quarter. Geller Advisors LLC now owns 1,965 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $231,000 after acquiring an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 2.5% during the first quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 5,015 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $415,000 after acquiring an additional 122 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Rockland Trust Co. boosted its stake in Edwards Lifesciences by 1.4% during the first quarter. Rockland Trust Co. now owns 8,639 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $715,000 after acquiring an additional 122 shares in the last quarter. 79.25% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Transactions at Edwards Lifesciences

In other news, VP Daveen Chopra sold 1,500 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.69, for a total value of $115,035.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 23,950 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,836,725.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. In related news, VP Daveen Chopra sold 1,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.69, for a total transaction of $115,035.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the vice president now owns 23,950 shares in the company, valued at $1,836,725.50. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Also, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 7,255 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Monday, July 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $84.35, for a total transaction of $611,959.25. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 19,248 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,623,568.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold a total of 184,359 shares of company stock valued at $13,817,172 over the last three months. Corporate insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Edwards Lifesciences Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE EW opened at $68.36 on Thursday. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $72.87 and a 200-day moving average price of $82.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09, a current ratio of 3.15 and a quick ratio of 2.30. The stock has a market cap of $41.56 billion, a PE ratio of 30.25, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.48 and a beta of 1.05. Edwards Lifesciences Co. has a 1 year low of $66.66 and a 1 year high of $94.87.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 25th. The medical research company reported $0.59 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $0.59. The firm had revenue of $1.48 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.48 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a net margin of 24.56% and a return on equity of 25.43%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 12.3% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.61 earnings per share. Equities analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Co. will post 2.55 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

EW has been the topic of several research reports. Royal Bank of Canada reissued an outperform rating and set a $96.00 price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Thursday, August 17th. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating and issued a $102.00 target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Friday, July 14th. Mizuho upped their target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $95.00 to $102.00 in a research note on Monday, July 17th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $103.00 to $107.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 25th. Finally, SVB Leerink assumed coverage on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Monday, October 16th. They issued a market perform rating and a $75.00 target price on the stock. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, eleven have issued a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Edwards Lifesciences currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $90.71.

Read Our Latest Research Report on EW

About Edwards Lifesciences

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease, and critical care and surgical monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of heart valves; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases.

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Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund boosted its position in FedEx Co. (NYSE:FDX  Free Report) by 299.9% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 51,304 shares of the shipping service providers stock after purchasing an additional 38,476 shares during the quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Funds holdings in FedEx were worth $12,718,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich grew its holdings in FedEx by 97,178.0% in the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 209,510,584 shares of the shipping service providers stock worth $51,937,674,000 after purchasing an additional 209,295,211 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley grew its stake in shares of FedEx by 19.6% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 3,412,956 shares of the shipping service providers stock worth $591,124,000 after buying an additional 559,607 shares during the last quarter. FMR LLC increased its position in FedEx by 17.2% during the 1st quarter. FMR LLC now owns 3,354,802 shares of the shipping service providers stock valued at $766,539,000 after buying an additional 491,207 shares in the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in FedEx during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $388,787,000. Finally, Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership raised its stake in FedEx by 2.0% during the first quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 1,990,243 shares of the shipping service providers stock valued at $454,751,000 after buying an additional 38,269 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 73.61% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity at FedEx

In other FedEx news, VP Jennifer L. Johnson sold 13,348 shares of FedEx stock in a transaction on Friday, October 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $258.25, for a total transaction of $3,447,121.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president now directly owns 3,428 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $885,281. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 8.73% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

FedEx Trading Down 2.8 %

NYSE:FDX traded down $6.62 during mid-day trading on Thursday, hitting $228.59. 552,721 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,977,207. The company has a quick ratio of 1.32, a current ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.76. FedEx Co. has a 52 week low of $151.34 and a 52 week high of $270.95. The stock has a market capitalization of $57.47 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.34, a PEG ratio of 1.11 and a beta of 1.33. The firms 50 day moving average is $255.61 and its two-hundred day moving average is $245.58.

FedEx (NYSE:FDX  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, September 20th. The shipping service provider reported $4.55 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.71 by $0.84. The business had revenue of $21.68 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $21.74 billion. FedEx had a return on equity of 16.14% and a net margin of 4.71%. The businesss revenue was down 6.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $3.44 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts predict that FedEx Co. will post 18.14 earnings per share for the current year.

FedEx Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 2nd. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 11th were paid a dividend of $1.26 per share. This represents a $5.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.20%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, September 8th. FedExs dividend payout ratio is presently 30.73%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

FDX has been the subject of several analyst reports. BMO Capital Markets raised their price target on FedEx from $280.00 to $290.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a report on Friday, September 22nd. Robert W. Baird restated an outperform rating and set a $300.00 price objective on shares of FedEx in a research note on Thursday, September 14th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of FedEx in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus raised their price target on shares of FedEx from $284.00 to $285.00 in a research report on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group upped their price objective on FedEx from $245.00 to $265.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, September 21st. Seven investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $282.54.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on FDX

About FedEx

(Free Report)

FedEx Corp. is a holding company, which engages in the provision of transportation, e-commerce, business services, and business solutions. It operates through the following segments: FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, FedEx Freight, FedEx Services, and Corporate, Other and Eliminations. The FedEx Express segment offers transportation and delivery services.

Further Reading

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Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund reduced its position in BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE:BLK  Free Report) by 5.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 14,674 shares of the asset managers stock after selling 787 shares during the period. Illinois Municipal Retirement Funds holdings in BlackRock were worth $10,142,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in BLK. Mendel Capital Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of BlackRock by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Mendel Capital Management LLC now owns 1,013 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $700,000 after buying an additional 14 shares in the last quarter. Key Financial Inc lifted its position in shares of BlackRock by 2.7% during the second quarter. Key Financial Inc now owns 540 shares of the asset managers stock worth $373,000 after acquiring an additional 14 shares in the last quarter. Keystone Financial Planning Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of BlackRock by 4.2% in the second quarter. Keystone Financial Planning Inc. now owns 369 shares of the asset managers stock worth $255,000 after acquiring an additional 15 shares during the period. Field & Main Bank grew its position in shares of BlackRock by 1.8% in the second quarter. Field & Main Bank now owns 842 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $582,000 after purchasing an additional 15 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Main Street Financial Solutions LLC raised its stake in shares of BlackRock by 2.5% during the 1st quarter. Main Street Financial Solutions LLC now owns 653 shares of the asset managers stock valued at $439,000 after purchasing an additional 16 shares during the period. 77.01% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have weighed in on BLK. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their target price on BlackRock from $781.00 to $754.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Citigroup upped their target price on shares of BlackRock from $750.00 to $815.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 14th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft lowered their target price on shares of BlackRock from $814.00 to $800.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 11th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of BlackRock from $836.00 to $897.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, October 16th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price objective on BlackRock from $820.00 to $720.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 4th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and nine have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $764.75.

BlackRock Price Performance

NYSE BLK traded up $3.04 during trading hours on Thursday, reaching $611.72. 47,464 shares of the stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 634,789. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $662.78 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $678.47. BlackRock, Inc. has a 1 year low of $603.48 and a 1 year high of $785.65. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a current ratio of 4.21 and a quick ratio of 4.21. The company has a market cap of $91.33 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 1.29.

BlackRock (NYSE:BLK  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 13th. The asset manager reported $10.91 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $8.34 by $2.57. The company had revenue of $4.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.52 billion. BlackRock had a return on equity of 14.72% and a net margin of 30.66%. BlackRocks revenue for the quarter was up 4.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $9.55 EPS. On average, analysts predict that BlackRock, Inc. will post 36.15 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About BlackRock

(Free Report)

BlackRock, Inc is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to institutional, intermediary, and individual investors including corporate, public, union, and industry pension plans, insurance companies, third-party mutual funds, endowments, public institutions, governments, foundations, charities, sovereign wealth funds, corporations, official institutions, and banks.

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Indra Sistemas (OTCMKTS:ISMAY  Get Free Report) and Dundee Precious Metals (OTCMKTS:DPMLF  Get Free Report) are both business services companies, but which is the superior stock? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, valuation, institutional ownership, earnings, profitability, dividends and analyst recommendations.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

0.1% of Dundee Precious Metals shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of Indra Sistemas shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 0.3% of Dundee Precious Metals shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that large money managers, endowments and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

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Dividends

Indra Sistemas pays an annual dividend of $0.09 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. Dundee Precious Metals pays an annual dividend of $0.16 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.5%. Indra Sistemas pays out 17.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Dundee Precious Metals pays out 35.6% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

Analyst Ratings

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Indra Sistemas 0 0 0 0 N/A Dundee Precious Metals 0 0 1 0 3.00

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and price targets for Indra Sistemas and Dundee Precious Metals, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Dundee Precious Metals has a consensus target price of $11.38, indicating a potential upside of 79.64%. Given Dundee Precious Metals higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe Dundee Precious Metals is more favorable than Indra Sistemas.

Profitability

This table compares Indra Sistemas and Dundee Precious Metals net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Indra Sistemas 4.80% 18.91% 4.21% Dundee Precious Metals 13.87% 16.47% 14.26%

Risk and Volatility

Indra Sistemas has a beta of 1, meaning that its stock price has a similar volatility profile to the S&P 500.Comparatively, Dundee Precious Metals has a beta of 0.66, meaning that its stock price is 34% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Indra Sistemas and Dundee Precious Metals gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Indra Sistemas $4.06 billion 0.60 $181.11 million $0.53 13.02 Dundee Precious Metals $569.79 million 2.04 $35.92 million $0.45 14.07

Indra Sistemas has higher revenue and earnings than Dundee Precious Metals. Indra Sistemas is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Dundee Precious Metals, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Summary

Dundee Precious Metals beats Indra Sistemas on 8 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Indra Sistemas

(Get Free Report)

Indra Sistemas, S.A. operates as a technology and consulting company worldwide. It designs, develops, produces, integrates, operates, maintains, repairs, and markets systems, solutions, and services based on the use of information technologies; computing, electronics, and communications. The company researches, engineers, designs, develops, manufactures, markets, installs, maintains, and repairs devices, equipment, and systems for data communication, encryption systems, encryption, beacon, and command and control center, as well as architectural and engineering technical services. In addition, it designs, develops, produces, and maintains navigation, landing assistance systems, and air traffic control systems; outsources business processes; delivers document management services and mortgage management; and manages digitalization and data capture. Further, the company provides business consulting, technology and solutions consulting services. Sistemas, S.A. was founded in 1921 and is based in Alcobendas, Spain.

About Dundee Precious Metals

(Get Free Report)

Dundee Precious Metals Inc., a gold mining company, engages in the acquisition of mineral properties; and exploration, development, mining, and processing of precious metals. It owns and operates a gold, copper, and silver mine located east of Sofia, Bulgaria; a gold mine located in south eastern Bulgaria, near the town of Krumovgrad; and a custom smelter located in Tsumeb, Namibia. The company also holds interests in exploration and development properties in Ecuador, Serbia, and Canada. Dundee Precious Metals Inc. was founded in 1983 and is based in Toronto, Canada.

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StockNews.com lowered shares of Invitae (NYSE:NVTA  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report released on Monday.

NVTA has been the subject of several other reports. The Goldman Sachs Group decreased their price objective on shares of Invitae from $1.00 to $0.50 and set a sell rating for the company in a report on Friday, October 20th. Piper Sandler lowered their price target on Invitae to $1.50 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, August 15th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating and two have given a hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, Invitae has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average target price of $1.95.

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Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Invitae

Invitae Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:NVTA opened at $0.51 on Monday. The stock has a market capitalization of $137.32 million, a P/E ratio of -0.16 and a beta of 1.78. The business has a 50-day moving average of $0.76 and a two-hundred day moving average of $1.08. Invitae has a fifty-two week low of $0.51 and a fifty-two week high of $3.78.

Invitae (NYSE:NVTA  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, August 8th. The medical research company reported ($0.30) earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.37) by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $120.53 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $121.19 million. Invitae had a negative return on equity of 6,100.71% and a negative net margin of 161.92%. As a group, research analysts expect that Invitae will post -1.42 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Invitae

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in NVTA. Alphabet Inc. increased its holdings in Invitae by 9.1% in the 1st quarter. Alphabet Inc. now owns 235,606 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $318,000 after buying an additional 19,641 shares during the period. Bourne Lent Asset Management Inc. lifted its stake in Invitae by 29.5% during the second quarter. Bourne Lent Asset Management Inc. now owns 354,000 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $400,000 after purchasing an additional 80,650 shares during the period. ARK Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in Invitae by 3.0% during the second quarter. ARK Investment Management LLC now owns 32,262,934 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $36,457,000 after purchasing an additional 931,593 shares in the last quarter. Prime Capital Investment Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Invitae in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $36,000. Finally, Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Invitae in the 1st quarter worth approximately $308,000. Institutional investors own 61.28% of the companys stock.

Invitae Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Invitae Corporation, a medical genetics company, that provides genetic information to improve healthcare of people in the United States, Canada, and internationally. The company offers genetic tests in various clinical areas, including hereditary cancer, precision oncology, women's health, rare diseases, and pharmacogenomics; digital health solutions; and health data services.

Further Reading

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MV Capital Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of IQVIA Holdings Inc. (NYSE:IQV  Free Report) by 24.1% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 319 shares of the medical research companys stock after acquiring an additional 62 shares during the quarter. MV Capital Management Inc.s holdings in IQVIA were worth $72,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of IQV. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich lifted its stake in IQVIA by 59,295.3% during the second quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 57,650,851 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $12,958,182,000 after buying an additional 57,553,788 shares in the last quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp grew its position in IQVIA by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Trust & Banking Corp now owns 112,697 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $22,414,000 after purchasing an additional 810 shares in the last quarter. Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. lifted its holdings in shares of IQVIA by 3.2% in the first quarter. Mn Services Vermogensbeheer B.V. now owns 94,100 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $18,716,000 after purchasing an additional 2,900 shares in the last quarter. Element Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of IQVIA in the first quarter worth $4,824,000. Finally, Achmea Investment Management B.V. raised its position in IQVIA by 91.3% during the second quarter. Achmea Investment Management B.V. now owns 21,503 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $4,833,000 after buying an additional 10,261 shares during the period. 86.82% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling at IQVIA

In other news, insider Constantinos Panagos sold 27,317 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $208.67, for a total value of $5,700,238.39. Following the sale, the insider now owns 14,250 shares in the company, valued at $2,973,547.50. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities analysts have weighed in on IQV shares. Mizuho lowered their target price on IQVIA from $250.00 to $229.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 10th. HSBC started coverage on shares of IQVIA in a research report on Wednesday, September 6th. They issued a buy rating and a $260.00 target price for the company. Truist Financial reaffirmed a buy rating and issued a $260.00 price target on shares of IQVIA in a research note on Tuesday, October 3rd. Barclays reduced their price objective on IQVIA from $250.00 to $245.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, Robert W. Baird upped their target price on IQVIA from $239.00 to $248.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 17th. Two equities research 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, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $248.93.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on IQVIA

IQVIA Stock Performance

IQV stock traded up $1.67 during midday trading on Thursday, hitting $182.89. 154,398 shares of the company traded hands, compared to its average volume of 1,042,332. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $206.14 and a 200-day simple moving average of $207.62. The company has a quick ratio of 0.81, a current ratio of 0.81 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.16. IQVIA Holdings Inc. has a twelve month low of $177.00 and a twelve month high of $241.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $33.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.19, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.82 and a beta of 1.39.

IQVIA (NYSE:IQV  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The medical research company reported $2.22 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.09 by $0.13. IQVIA had a net margin of 7.47% and a return on equity of 30.14%. The firm had revenue of $3.73 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.70 billion. As a group, equities research analysts predict that IQVIA Holdings Inc. will post 9.22 earnings per share for the current year.

About IQVIA

(Free Report)

IQVIA Holdings Inc engages in the provision of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services to the life sciences industry in the Americas, Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. It operates through three segments: Technology & Analytics Solutions, Research & Development Solutions, and Contract Sales & Medical Solutions.

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Archford Capital Strategies LLC raised its position in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF (NYSEARCA:EEM  Free Report) by 6.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 9,997 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 615 shares during the quarter. Archford Capital Strategies LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF were worth $409,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 125,500.5% in the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 144,937,968 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $5,493,149,000 after acquiring an additional 144,822,572 shares during the last quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 96,952.9% during the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 53,678,016 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $2,123,502,000 after buying an additional 53,622,708 shares in the last quarter. OLD Mission Capital LLC lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 39,739.1% during the 1st quarter. OLD Mission Capital LLC now owns 22,246,553 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $877,849,000 after buying an additional 22,190,712 shares in the last quarter. Jane Street Group LLC lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 16,816.5% during the 1st quarter. Jane Street Group LLC now owns 6,821,065 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $269,159,000 after buying an additional 6,780,743 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Morgan Stanley lifted its holdings in iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF by 20.9% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 39,172,754 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,484,647,000 after buying an additional 6,765,030 shares in the last quarter. 76.58% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Trading Down 1.3 %

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF stock opened at $36.76 on Thursday. iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF has a 52-week low of $33.92 and a 52-week high of $42.53. The companys 50 day moving average is $38.36 and its two-hundred day moving average is $39.24.

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF Company Profile

iShares MSCI Emerging Markets ETF, formerly iShares MSCI Emerging Markets Index Fund (the Fund), seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded equity securities in global emerging markets, as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (the Index).

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MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Shanghai-based renewable energy company AIKO made a grand debut at the All-Energy exhibition in Melbourne, Australia on Oct 25 with its cutting-edge solar cell products, which captured attentions from global visitors.

The exhibition, one of Australia's largest, highlights cutting-edge renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies from around the world. AIKO unveiled its products for the first time in the Australia as part of its efforts to expand the country's market.

One of its spotlights is the ultra-efficient ABC (All Back Contact) structure cells and component products, which were independently developed by AIKO.

This type of solar photovoltaic panel can generate more electricity on the same surface area, compared with traditional front surface contact structure cells, with the highest efficiency reaching 24 percent.

AIKO Australia exhibition booth scene

Founded in 2009, AIKO is an international player in solar cell manufacturing and in providing photovoltaic energy integrated solutions, with products sold in South Korea, Japan, India and Europe.

In the new era of global energy transformation, the company has been making efforts in technological innovation to support the construction of a new energy system around the globe to contribute to the overall goal of global carbon neutrality, said AIKO Chairman Chen Gang.

In alignment with the Australian market and customer demands, the company has enhanced the efficiency and reliability of its solar cell technology.

The ABC double glass solar component utilizes dual-glass encapsulation technology, building upon the core strengths of the ABC single glass component, enhancing its properties in terms of barrier, moisture resistance, and fire retardance. It comes with a 25-year product quality warranty and a 30-year power quality warranty.

The ABC structure cells can fully meet the needs of middle and high-end users from the aspects of beautiful appearance, structural safety, convenient installation, high utilization rate and more power generation.

Story continues

AIKO is working to expand its overseas market by exporting its products and set up subsidiaries in foreign countries. As of the first half of 2023, AIKO has set up subsidiary companies in nine countries, including Germany, Netherlands, UK, Italy, Singapore, and Japan. The company also continues to expand its global sales network in regions spanning Europe, Asia, Oceania. The company's entrance into the Australian market is a significant step in its global expansion efforts, showcasing its commitment to international growth.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/aiko-a-global-leading-new-energy-technology-company-poised-for-australia-market-expansion-301967255.html

SOURCE AIKO
Jackson Creek Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Matson, Inc. (NYSE:MATX  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor acquired 12,872 shares of the shipping companys stock, valued at approximately $1,001,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in MATX. Victory Capital Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Matson by 1,004.1% during the 2nd quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 539,337 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $41,923,000 after purchasing an additional 490,489 shares in the last quarter. ArrowMark Colorado Holdings LLC grew its holdings in shares of Matson by 30.0% during the 1st quarter. ArrowMark Colorado Holdings LLC now owns 1,858,648 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $110,906,000 after purchasing an additional 429,048 shares in the last quarter. Pacer Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of Matson by 37.2% during the 1st quarter. Pacer Advisors Inc. now owns 646,826 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $38,596,000 after buying an additional 175,321 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Matson by 3.4% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 4,655,892 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $561,594,000 after buying an additional 153,723 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Matson by 109.9% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 285,393 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $34,424,000 after buying an additional 149,444 shares during the last quarter. 85.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Matson Price Performance

Matson stock opened at $91.01 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 1.05, a quick ratio of 1.05 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.18. The company has a market capitalization of $3.21 billion, a PE ratio of 7.47 and a beta of 1.20. Matson, Inc. has a 12 month low of $56.51 and a 12 month high of $97.49. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $87.95 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $79.98.

Insider Activity

Matson ( NYSE:MATX Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, August 1st. The shipping company reported $2.26 earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of $2.26. The company had revenue of $773.40 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $762.35 million. Matson had a return on equity of 20.04% and a net margin of 13.52%. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 38.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $9.49 earnings per share. Analysts expect that Matson, Inc. will post 6.88 EPS for the current year.

In other news, SVP Grace M. Cerocke sold 700 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.65, for a total value of $64,855.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 12,164 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,126,994.60. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. In related news, SVP Grace M. Cerocke sold 700 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 16th. The stock was sold at an average price of $92.65, for a total transaction of $64,855.00. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president now owns 12,164 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,126,994.60. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, SVP Laura L. Rascon sold 897 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $94.25, for a total value of $84,542.25. Following the sale, the senior vice president now directly owns 9,701 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $914,319.25. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 23,915 shares of company stock valued at $2,175,317. Company insiders own 1.90% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts recently weighed in on MATX shares. Stephens upped their price objective on Matson from $73.00 to $110.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 2nd. StockNews.com upgraded Matson from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday. Wolfe Research increased their target price on Matson from $113.00 to $116.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday. Finally, Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on Matson from $90.00 to $102.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Matson

Matson Company Profile

(Free Report)

Matson, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides ocean transportation and logistics services. The company's Ocean Transportation segment offers ocean freight transportation services to the domestic non-contiguous economies of Hawaii, Alaska, and Guam, as well as to other island economies in Micronesia.

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Meridian Wealth Management LLC purchased a new stake in iShares Convertible Bond ETF (BATS:ICVT  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 3,199 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $244,000.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $25,000. ICA Group Wealth Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at $31,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $40,000. Resurgent Financial Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 4th quarter valued at $41,000. Finally, Fiduciary Alliance LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Convertible Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at $46,000.

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iShares Convertible Bond ETF Stock Performance

ICVT opened at $71.25 on Thursday. iShares Convertible Bond ETF has a 12 month low of $50.43 and a 12 month high of $58.18. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $74.21 and a 200 day simple moving average of $74.35.

iShares Convertible Bond ETF Increases Dividend

iShares Convertible Bond ETF Profile

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 6th. Investors of record on Tuesday, October 3rd were given a $0.12 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, October 2nd. This is a boost from iShares Convertible Bond ETFs previous dividend of $0.08.

(Free Report)

The iShares Convertible Bond ETF (ICVT) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in broad credit fixed income. The fund tracks an index of USD-denominated convertible bonds weighted by market value. The index contains only cash-pay convertibles and excludes mandatory and preferred convertibles.

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MV Capital Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 9.7% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 2,153 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after buying an additional 191 shares during the period. MV Capital Management Inc.s holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb were worth $138,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in BMY. Dillon & Associates Inc. grew its stake in Bristol-Myers Squibb by 3.9% during the 1st quarter. Dillon & Associates Inc. now owns 3,955 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $245,000 after purchasing an additional 150 shares in the last quarter. Abbrea Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Abbrea Capital LLC now owns 10,025 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $695,000 after acquiring an additional 150 shares in the last quarter. Westshore Wealth LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 4.3% in the first quarter. Westshore Wealth LLC now owns 3,658 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $254,000 after acquiring an additional 151 shares in the last quarter. Providence Wealth Advisors LLC increased its holdings in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. Providence Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 28,179 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,952,000 after purchasing an additional 153 shares during the period. Finally, Lebenthal Global Advisors LLC boosted its stake in shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb by 1.5% during the 1st quarter. Lebenthal Global Advisors LLC now owns 10,533 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $730,000 after buying an additional 156 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 74.98% of the companys stock.

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Bristol-Myers Squibb Trading Down 2.8 %

NYSE:BMY traded down $1.56 during trading hours on Thursday, hitting $55.05. The stock had a trading volume of 4,952,156 shares, compared to its average volume of 9,156,510. The businesss 50 day moving average is $59.04 and its 200-day moving average is $63.04. 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 $115.00 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.06, a P/E/G ratio of 1.55 and a beta of 0.43. Bristol-Myers Squibb has a one year low of $53.67 and a one year high of $81.43.

Bristol-Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

Bristol-Myers Squibb ( NYSE:BMY Get Free Report ) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 26th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $2.00 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.76 by $0.24. Bristol-Myers Squibb had a net margin of 17.62% and a return on equity of 50.51%. The firm had revenue of $10.97 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.96 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $1.99 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 2.2% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Bristol-Myers Squibb will post 7.37 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 6th will be paid a dividend of $0.57 per share. This represents a $2.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.14%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, October 5th. Bristol-Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio is currently 60.64%.

Insider Activity at Bristol-Myers Squibb

In other Bristol-Myers Squibb news, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total value of $1,101,642.50. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now owns 27,868 shares in the company, valued at $1,706,915. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this hyperlink. In other Bristol-Myers Squibb news, EVP Ann Powell sold 17,986 shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 24th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total transaction of $1,101,642.50. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 27,868 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,706,915. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Robert M. Plenge sold 732 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $61.14, for a total value of $44,754.48. Following the sale, the executive vice president now owns 6,584 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $402,545.76. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.09% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms have commented on BMY. UBS Group reissued a neutral rating and set a $60.00 target price (down from $70.00) on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Friday, October 20th. SVB Leerink restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, July 10th. Bank of America cut their target price on Bristol-Myers Squibb from $85.00 to $80.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Friday, July 28th. Cantor Fitzgerald restated an overweight rating and issued a $75.00 price target on shares of Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research report on Monday, October 9th. Finally, SVB Securities initiated coverage on Bristol-Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, July 10th. They issued a market perform rating and a $66.00 price objective on the stock. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, eight have issued a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $68.67.

View Our Latest Analysis on Bristol-Myers Squibb

Bristol-Myers Squibb Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis, an oral inhibitor for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in NVAF, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for anti-cancer indications; Pomalyst/Imnovid indicated for patients with multiple myeloma; Orencia for adult patients with active RA and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. (NYSE:MYTE  Get Free Report) have been assigned a consensus rating of Hold from the six research firms that are covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Five analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and one has assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 12-month price target among brokerages that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $6.10.

Several analysts have issued reports on MYTE shares. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an equal weight rating and issued a $4.50 price objective (down previously from $6.00) on shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. in a research report on Monday, September 18th. UBS Group increased their price objective on shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. from $4.60 to $5.20 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, September 15th. Finally, Bank of America decreased their price target on shares of MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. from $14.00 to $8.00 in a research report on Thursday, June 29th.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on MYT Netherlands Parent B.V.

MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. Trading Up 0.4 %

NYSE MYTE opened at $2.84 on Thursday. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. has a one year low of $2.75 and a one year high of $12.54. The companys 50 day moving average price is $3.39 and its 200 day moving average price is $4.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11, a quick ratio of 0.41 and a current ratio of 2.27. The firm has a market capitalization of $241.09 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -15.78 and a beta of 0.99.

MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. (NYSE:MYTE  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, September 14th. The company reported ($0.07) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of ($0.08) by $0.01. MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. had a negative net margin of 1.99% and a positive return on equity of 1.32%. The company had revenue of $221.81 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $212.76 million. On average, sell-side analysts predict that MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. will post 0.02 EPS for the current year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On MYT Netherlands Parent B.V.

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MYTE. Avalon Global Asset Management LLC boosted its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 517.9% in the second quarter. Avalon Global Asset Management LLC now owns 587,000 shares of the companys stock worth $2,348,000 after purchasing an additional 492,000 shares during the period. TimesSquare Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 19.8% in the first quarter. TimesSquare Capital Management LLC now owns 1,586,390 shares of the companys stock worth $11,152,000 after purchasing an additional 261,840 shares during the period. Boothbay Fund Management LLC acquired a new position in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. in the first quarter worth $928,000. Portolan Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. in the first quarter worth $746,000. Finally, Bank of America Corp DE boosted its holdings in MYT Netherlands Parent B.V. by 41.9% in the first quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 358,846 shares of the companys stock worth $4,389,000 after purchasing an additional 105,983 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 12.23% of the companys stock.

About MYT Netherlands Parent B.V.

(Get Free Report

MYT Netherlands Parent B.V., through its subsidiary, Mytheresa Group GmbH, operates a luxury e-commerce platform for fashion consumers in Germany, the United States, rest of Europe, and internationally. It offers womenswear, menswear, kids wear, and lifestyle products. The company sells clothes, bags, shoes, accessories, and fine jewelry through online and retail stores.

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Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. grew its stake in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWP  Free Report) by 2.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 52,437 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 1,303 shares during the period. Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.s holdings in iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF were worth $5,067,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in IWP. HB Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF during the 1st quarter valued at $238,000. Perennial Investment Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF during the first quarter valued at about $1,239,000. Sterling Manor Financial LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF during the second quarter worth about $15,188,000. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. raised its holdings in shares of iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 4.5% in the 1st quarter. Whittier Trust Co. of Nevada Inc. now owns 5,076 shares of the companys stock worth $462,000 after acquiring an additional 220 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Octavia Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 5.4% in the 2nd quarter. Octavia Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 130,483 shares of the companys stock valued at $12,609,000 after acquiring an additional 6,680 shares in the last quarter.

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iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF Stock Performance

IWP stock opened at $86.87 on Thursday. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $92.60 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $93.16. The company has a market capitalization of $11.79 billion, a P/E ratio of 25.03 and a beta of 1.10. iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF has a 52-week low of $80.51 and a 52-week high of $100.93.

iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF Profile

iShares Russell Mid-Cap Growth ETF, formerly iShares Russell Midcap Growth Index Fund (the Growth 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 Russell Midcap Growth Index (the Growth Index).

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Premier Fund Managers Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund purchased 2,000 shares of the semiconductor companys stock, valued at approximately $201,000.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in TSM. Panagora Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 287.3% in the first quarter. Panagora Asset Management Inc. now owns 15,150 shares of the semiconductor companys stock valued at $1,409,000 after purchasing an additional 11,238 shares in the last quarter. Kovack Advisors Inc. grew its position in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing by 6.3% in the second quarter. Kovack Advisors Inc. now owns 3,287 shares of the semiconductor companys stock worth $332,000 after acquiring an additional 195 shares in the last quarter. First National Bank of Hutchinson acquired a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 1st quarter worth $306,000. Daymark Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing during the 2nd quarter valued at $453,000. Finally, Deuterium Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in the 1st quarter valued at $2,875,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 16.51% of the companys stock.

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:TSM traded down $0.16 during midday trading on Thursday, hitting $87.48. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,654,556 shares, compared to its average volume of 11,030,620. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 2.13 and a current ratio of 2.42. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $90.23 and its 200 day simple moving average is $93.59. The stock has a market capitalization of $453.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.76, a PEG ratio of 2.57 and a beta of 1.07. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited has a fifty-two week low of $59.43 and a fifty-two week high of $110.69.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Cuts Dividend

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ( NYSE:TSM Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The semiconductor company reported $1.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.16 by $0.13. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing had a return on equity of 28.71% and a net margin of 41.42%. The firm had revenue of $17.28 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.90 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.79 EPS. The companys revenue was down 10.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited will post 4.97 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 11th. Investors of record on Friday, December 15th will be paid a dividend of $0.4724 per share. This represents a $1.89 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.16%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 14th. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturings payout ratio is currently 26.44%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities analysts have commented on the stock. Susquehanna lowered their target price on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from $135.00 to $130.00 in a research report on Monday, October 9th. StockNews.com raised Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 20th. Barclays initiated coverage on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Monday. They issued an overweight rating and a $105.00 target price for the company. Finally, Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and set a $115.00 price target on shares of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in a report on Friday, October 20th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $116.67.

View Our Latest Research Report on TSM

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Profile

(Free Report)

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, packages, tests, and sells integrated circuits and other semiconductor devices in Taiwan, China, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Japan, the United States, and internationally. It provides complementary metal oxide silicon wafer fabrication processes to manufacture logic, mixed-signal, radio frequency, and embedded memory semiconductors.

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Psagot Value Holdings Ltd. Israel acquired a new stake in shares of The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor acquired 2,011 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock, valued at approximately $168,000.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Merit Financial Group LLC raised its stake in shares of TJX Companies by 5.1% during the second quarter. Merit Financial Group LLC now owns 33,127 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $2,809,000 after acquiring an additional 1,603 shares during the last quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in shares of TJX Companies by 2.6% during the 1st quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 6,809 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $534,000 after acquiring an additional 172 shares during the period. Advisors Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of TJX Companies by 15.1% during the 1st quarter. Advisors Asset Management Inc. now owns 123,265 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $9,659,000 after acquiring an additional 16,162 shares during the period. Integrated Advisors Network LLC grew its holdings in shares of TJX Companies by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. Integrated Advisors Network LLC now owns 5,656 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $443,000 after acquiring an additional 204 shares during the period. Finally, Martingale Asset Management L P purchased a new position in shares of TJX Companies during the 1st quarter worth approximately $223,000. 89.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Transactions at TJX Companies

In other news, Chairman Carol Meyrowitz sold 64,817 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $91.13, for a total value of $5,906,773.21. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now directly owns 135,050 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,307,106.50. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. In other TJX Companies news, CEO Ernie Herrman sold 45,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $89.04, for a total value of $4,006,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer now owns 642,098 shares in the company, valued at approximately $57,172,405.92. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Also, Chairman Carol Meyrowitz sold 64,817 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, August 29th. The stock was sold at an average price of $91.13, for a total value of $5,906,773.21. Following the completion of the sale, the chairman now owns 135,050 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,307,106.50. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders sold 114,014 shares of company stock worth $10,291,303 in the last three months. Corporate insiders own 0.13% of the companys stock.

TJX Companies Price Performance

Shares of TJX opened at $88.95 on Thursday. The company has a current ratio of 1.20, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. The firm has a market cap of $101.77 billion, a PE ratio of 26.09, a P/E/G ratio of 2.16 and a beta of 0.89. The TJX Companies, Inc. has a 1-year low of $69.93 and a 1-year high of $93.78. The firm has a fifty day simple moving average of $89.98 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $84.34.

TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 16th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $0.85 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.77 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $12.76 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $12.45 billion. TJX Companies had a return on equity of 62.61% and a net margin of 7.77%. TJX Companiess revenue was up 7.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $0.69 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that The TJX Companies, Inc. will post 3.71 EPS for the current year.

TJX Companies Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 30th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 9th will be paid a $0.3325 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 8th. This represents a $1.33 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.50%. TJX Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 39.00%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have weighed in on TJX shares. StockNews.com assumed coverage on TJX Companies in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Piper Sandler assumed coverage on TJX Companies in a research report on Thursday, June 29th. They issued an overweight rating and a $110.00 price target on the stock. Robert W. Baird boosted their price target on TJX Companies from $90.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on TJX Companies from $104.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, August 17th. Finally, Barclays boosted their price target on TJX Companies from $95.00 to $101.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 15th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seventeen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $95.42.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on TJX Companies

TJX Companies Profile

(Free Report)

The TJX Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. The company sells family apparel, including footwear and accessories; home fashions, such as home basics, furniture, rugs, lighting products, giftware, soft home products, decorative accessories, tabletop, and cookware, as well as expanded pet, and gourmet food departments; jewelry and accessories; and other merchandise.

Further Reading

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Perigon Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Roper Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:ROP  Free Report) by 2.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 1,147 shares of the industrial products companys stock after purchasing an additional 27 shares during the quarter. Perigon Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Roper Technologies were worth $551,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich raised its holdings in shares of Roper Technologies by 106,490.5% in the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 186,254,169 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $89,551,004,000 after purchasing an additional 186,079,431 shares in the last quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD raised its holdings in shares of Roper Technologies by 5.2% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 8,877,050 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,912,029,000 after purchasing an additional 436,317 shares in the last quarter. BlackRock Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Roper Technologies by 0.5% in the 1st quarter. BlackRock Inc. now owns 7,725,350 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $3,404,484,000 after purchasing an additional 41,777 shares in the last quarter. State Street Corp raised its holdings in shares of Roper Technologies by 1.6% in the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 4,294,847 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,892,695,000 after purchasing an additional 68,038 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Morgan Stanley raised its holdings in shares of Roper Technologies by 2.9% in the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 3,409,974 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $1,473,416,000 after purchasing an additional 95,728 shares in the last quarter. 91.59% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Roper Technologies

In related news, CFO Jason Conley sold 2,857 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $502.05, for a total transaction of $1,434,356.85. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 38,358 shares in the company, valued at approximately $19,257,633.90. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. In related news, CFO Jason Conley sold 2,857 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $502.05, for a total transaction of $1,434,356.85. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 38,358 shares in the company, valued at approximately $19,257,633.90. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Christopher Wright sold 1,100 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Friday, September 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $498.56, for a total transaction of $548,416.00. Following the transaction, the director now owns 36,727 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,310,613.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Corporate insiders own 0.94% of the companys stock.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on ROP. Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on shares of Roper Technologies from $550.00 to $555.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, July 24th. TD Cowen boosted their price target on shares of Roper Technologies from $525.00 to $535.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, July 25th. Argus upped their price objective on shares of Roper Technologies from $490.00 to $550.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, July 24th. Truist Financial reiterated a buy rating and issued a $575.00 price objective on shares of Roper Technologies in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Finally, Robert W. Baird upped their price objective on shares of Roper Technologies from $483.00 to $503.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 18th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, nine have issued a buy rating and one has given a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $528.13.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Roper Technologies

Roper Technologies Stock Performance

ROP stock opened at $481.21 on Thursday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.90, a current ratio of 0.94 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $492.89 and a two-hundred day moving average of $475.02. The company has a market capitalization of $51.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.71, a P/E/G ratio of 2.79 and a beta of 1.02. Roper Technologies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $381.84 and a 12 month high of $508.90.

Roper Technologies Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 23rd. Investors of record on Monday, October 9th were issued a dividend of $0.6825 per share. This represents a $2.73 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.57%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Thursday, October 5th. Roper Technologiess dividend payout ratio is currently 10.05%.

Roper Technologies Profile

(Free Report)

Roper Technologies, Inc designs and develops software, and technology enabled products and solutions. The company offers management, campus solutions, diagnostic and laboratory information management, enterprise management, information solutions, transportation management, financial and compliance management, and cloud-based financial analytics and performance management software; cloud-based software to the property and casualty insurance industry; and software, services, and technologies for foodservice operations.

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StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of WestRock (NYSE:WRK  Free Report) in a report released on Monday morning. The firm issued a hold rating on the basic materials companys stock.

WRK has been the topic of a number of other reports. Royal Bank of Canada raised their price objective on shares of WestRock from $33.00 to $36.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a report on Friday, August 4th. UBS Group dropped their price target on WestRock from $42.00 to $37.00 in a research note on Friday, June 30th. Truist Financial upped their price objective on WestRock from $34.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, September 21st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on WestRock from $37.00 to $42.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, August 4th. Five equities research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $37.57.

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View Our Latest Report on WestRock

WestRock Trading Down 0.3 %

WRK opened at $34.63 on Monday. WestRock has a twelve month low of $26.84 and a twelve month high of $39.30. The firm has a market cap of $8.87 billion, a PE ratio of -6.25 and a beta of 1.15. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.86, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a current ratio of 1.49. The firms fifty day moving average is $34.72 and its two-hundred day moving average is $31.55.

WestRock (NYSE:WRK  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, August 3rd. The basic materials company reported $0.89 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.50 by $0.39. WestRock had a positive return on equity of 8.75% and a negative net margin of 6.82%. The business had revenue of $5.12 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.16 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $1.54 EPS. The firms revenue was down 7.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts anticipate that WestRock will post 3.02 EPS for the current year.

WestRock Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, August 24th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, August 10th were issued a $0.275 dividend. This represents a $1.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.18%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, August 9th. WestRocks payout ratio is -19.86%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. grew its stake in shares of WestRock by 3.6% in the first quarter. MidWestOne Financial Group Inc. now owns 8,606 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $405,000 after buying an additional 300 shares in the last quarter. Wahed Invest LLC lifted its stake in WestRock by 9.3% in the second quarter. Wahed Invest LLC now owns 3,646 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $106,000 after acquiring an additional 311 shares during the last quarter. Cetera Advisors LLC grew its position in shares of WestRock by 2.9% in the 2nd quarter. Cetera Advisors LLC now owns 11,370 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $331,000 after acquiring an additional 320 shares during the period. Yousif Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of WestRock by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 53,133 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $2,499,000 after purchasing an additional 340 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Asset Management One Co. Ltd. raised its holdings in shares of WestRock by 0.4% in the 3rd quarter. Asset Management One Co. Ltd. now owns 99,815 shares of the basic materials companys stock valued at $3,573,000 after purchasing an additional 350 shares during the period. 85.51% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About WestRock

(Get Free Report)

WestRock Company, together with its subsidiaries, provides fiber-based paper and packaging solutions in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It operates in four segments, Corrugated Packaging, Consumer Packaging, Global Paper, and Distribution. The Corrugated Packaging segment produces containerboards, corrugated sheets, corrugated packaging, and preprinted linerboards to consumer and industrial products manufacturers, and corrugated box manufacturers.

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Picton Mahoney Asset Management decreased its holdings in shares of The Bank of New York Mellon Co. (NYSE:BK  Free Report) by 35.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 159,550 shares of the banks stock after selling 85,915 shares during the period. Picton Mahoney Asset Managements holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $7,104,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Quilter Plc bought a new position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon during the first quarter worth about $446,850,000. Nemes Rush Group LLC acquired a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter worth about $27,000. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. lifted its holdings in Bank of New York Mellon by 97.1% in the first quarter. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. now owns 609 shares of the banks stock worth $30,000 after purchasing an additional 300 shares during the period. Duncker Streett & Co. Inc. acquired a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter worth about $33,000. Finally, Glass Jacobson Investment Advisors llc acquired a new stake in Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter worth about $35,000. Institutional investors own 81.29% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Morgan Stanley reduced their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $48.00 to $46.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, October 3rd. Bank of America cut their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $55.00 to $53.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. StockNews.com began coverage on shares of Bank of New York Mellon in a report on Thursday, October 5th. They issued a hold rating for the company. Citigroup cut their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $58.00 to $55.00 in a report on Wednesday, July 19th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut their price target on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $45.00 to $44.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 11th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have issued a hold rating and four have assigned a buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $52.40.

Bank of New York Mellon Price Performance

Shares of BK opened at $41.27 on Thursday. The company has a market capitalization of $32.14 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.83, a P/E/G ratio of 0.99 and a beta of 1.09. The Bank of New York Mellon Co. has a fifty-two week low of $39.65 and a fifty-two week high of $52.26. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83, a current ratio of 0.71 and a quick ratio of 0.72. The businesss 50-day moving average is $43.32 and its 200-day moving average is $43.48.

Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 17th. The bank reported $1.27 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.15 by $0.12. The company had revenue of $4.37 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.32 billion. Bank of New York Mellon had a return on equity of 11.84% and a net margin of 11.81%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 2.2% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $1.21 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that The Bank of New York Mellon Co. will post 4.87 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 9th. Investors of record on Friday, October 27th will be issued a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, October 26th. This represents a $1.68 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.07%. Bank of New York Mellons dividend payout ratio is currently 39.44%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, insider Kurtis R. Kurimsky sold 14,045 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $45.64, for a total value of $641,013.80. Following the transaction, the insider now owns 23,816 shares in the company, valued at $1,086,962.24. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. 0.10% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Bank of New York Mellon Profile

(Free Report)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics.

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(Bloomberg) -- Droughts and forest fires are among threats that may scupper Australias ambitions to bolster its farming industry into a A$100 billion ($64 billion) powerhouse by the end of the decade.

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The country just recorded its driest-ever September, which is jeopardizing the wheat harvest and forcing farmers to sell cattle. This summers bushfire season promises to be worse than usual due to the El Nino weather pattern, while new pests, like the bee-killing varroa mite, are yet another hurdle.

The government is forecasting the production value of Australian agriculture will drop 14% to A$80 billion in the year through June 2024 due to the drier weather and falling commodity prices. In the longer term, climate change is adding to the challenges. Average rainfall has declined at least 15% over the last half-century, while the bushfire season has become longer and more extreme.

While the A$100 billion goal  first announced in 2018  might be possible by 2030, it would take a lot of factors like weather and commodity prices to line up, said Michael Whitehead, executive director of agricultural insights at ANZ Group Holdings Ltd.

When we got close to a A$100 billion last year, it was due to a perfect storm of circumstances, he said. Theres a strong possibility that wont happen again for years, if not decades, he said.

The A$92 billion generated from agriculture in the year through June 2023 was a record, helped by the war in Ukraine boosting wheat prices. Cattle prices were also historically high as farmers restocked their herds following a drought. Australia is one of the worlds biggest meat and grain exporters.

Story continues

Policy to Blame

Still, Australian farmers say its government policy thats threatening the future of agriculture. Right now, were facing an avalanche of bad ideas, that if seen through will see farmers walk off the land, and indeed see entire industries closed for no good reason, National Farmers Federation President David Jochinke said at a conference in Canberra on Thursday.

Farmers are calling for the abandonment of plans to ban live sheep exports to the Middle East and the establishment of a dedicated visa pathway for agricultural workers. Other contentious issues include water buybacks in the Murray Darling Basin and environmental protection laws.

Agriculture Minister Murray Watt sought to defend government policies in a speech to the same conference, saying he was surprised by the federations position and that the government had taken actions to help farmers and improve access to foreign markets.

Read more: Extreme Weather Turns Up the Heat on Investing in Agriculture

Climate Change

While climate change is threatening Australias agricultural revenue, the nation is still one of the biggest coal and natural gas exporters. The election of Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses Labor government last year had raised optimism its reliance on fossil fuels would be lessened, but thats been dimmed by approvals to four coal projects since it took office.

Some farmers are more concerned with staying afloat than with the governments lofty production goals. Justin Everitt, who grows wheat, canola, barley and lupins in northern New South Wales, said he was likely to produce 20% less grain this year after his crops had started to rapidly dry since August.

Its nice to aim for big targets, but we need to make sure our farms are profitable first, he said.

--With assistance from Ben Westcott.

(Updates to add farmer and minister comments in graphs seven to nine)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
The Sherwin-Williams Company (NYSE:SHW  Free Report)  KeyCorp upped their FY2023 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for shares of Sherwin-Williams in a report released on Tuesday, October 24th. KeyCorp analyst A. Yefremov now anticipates that the specialty chemicals company will post earnings per share of $10.44 for the year, up from their previous forecast of $10.39. The consensus estimate for Sherwin-Williams current full-year earnings is $10.10 per share. KeyCorp also issued estimates for Sherwin-Williams Q4 2023 earnings at $1.92 EPS, Q1 2024 earnings at $2.18 EPS, Q2 2024 earnings at $3.42 EPS, Q3 2024 earnings at $3.46 EPS, Q4 2024 earnings at $2.24 EPS and FY2024 earnings at $11.30 EPS.

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Sherwin-Williams (NYSE:SHW  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, July 25th. The specialty chemicals company reported $3.29 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.71 by $0.58. Sherwin-Williams had a net margin of 10.50% and a return on equity of 78.92%. The firm had revenue of $6.24 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.03 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.41 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 6.3% compared to the same quarter last year.

Several other brokerages have also issued reports on SHW. Berenberg Bank upped their target price on shares of Sherwin-Williams from $224.00 to $249.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price target on shares of Sherwin-Williams from $315.00 to $330.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday. Evercore ISI upped their price target on shares of Sherwin-Williams from $300.00 to $305.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, September 8th. Robert W. Baird upped their price target on shares of Sherwin-Williams from $275.00 to $300.00 in a research report on Wednesday, July 26th. Finally, Citigroup cut their price target on shares of Sherwin-Williams from $320.00 to $310.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. One analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and thirteen have given a buy rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $283.56.

Check Out Our Latest Report on SHW

Sherwin-Williams Stock Up 1.5 %

Shares of NYSE:SHW opened at $238.61 on Thursday. Sherwin-Williams has a 52-week low of $205.43 and a 52-week high of $283.80. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $259.12 and a 200 day moving average of $252.02. The firm has a market capitalization of $61.36 billion, a PE ratio of 25.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.98 and a beta of 1.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.25, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a current ratio of 0.94.

Sherwin-Williams Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 8th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $0.605 per share. This represents a $2.42 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.01%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 16th. Sherwin-Williamss dividend payout ratio is 25.91%.

Insider Buying and Selling at Sherwin-Williams

In other Sherwin-Williams news, CEO John G. Morikis bought 2,125 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 25th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $237.60 per share, with a total value of $504,900.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the chief executive officer now owns 317,270 shares of the companys stock, valued at $75,383,352. The acquisition was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Sherwin-Williams

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of Sherwin-Williams by 1,716.7% during the first quarter. HHM Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 109 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. Union Savings Bank purchased a new stake in Sherwin-Williams in the third quarter worth approximately $28,000. TCI Wealth Advisors Inc. boosted its holdings in Sherwin-Williams by 296.9% in the first quarter. TCI Wealth Advisors Inc. now owns 127 shares of the specialty chemicals companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 95 shares during the last quarter. BluePath Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in Sherwin-Williams in the third quarter worth approximately $33,000. Finally, First Capital Advisors Group LLC. purchased a new stake in Sherwin-Williams in the second quarter worth approximately $37,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 75.87% of the companys stock.

Sherwin-Williams Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

The Sherwin-Williams Company engages in the manufacture, distribution, and sale of paints, coating, and related products to professional, industrial, commercial, and retail customers. It operates through three segments: The Americas Group, Consumer Brands Group, and Performance Coatings Group. The Americas Group segment offers architectural paints and coatings, and protective and marine products, as well as OEM product finishes and related products for architectural and industrial paint contractors, and do-it-yourself homeowners.

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Accredited Investors Inc. lessened its position in shares of The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report) by 53.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 3,121 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 3,635 shares during the quarter. Accredited Investors Inc.s holdings in Southern were worth $219,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Lindbrook Capital LLC increased its position in shares of Southern by 48.7% in the first quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 3,196 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $222,000 after buying an additional 1,047 shares in the last quarter. Drive Wealth Management LLC grew its stake in Southern by 9.9% in the 2nd quarter. Drive Wealth Management LLC now owns 3,171 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $223,000 after acquiring an additional 286 shares during the period. Capital City Trust Co. FL purchased a new stake in Southern in the 2nd quarter worth $306,000. Berkeley Capital Partners LLC raised its position in Southern by 3.5% during the first quarter. Berkeley Capital Partners LLC now owns 14,463 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,006,000 after acquiring an additional 485 shares during the period. Finally, Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC lifted its holdings in Southern by 1,073.3% during the first quarter. Nelson Van Denburg & Campbell Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 880 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $61,000 after purchasing an additional 805 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 62.85% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Southern news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, October 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $66.00, for a total transaction of $330,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer now directly owns 116,284 shares in the company, valued at $7,674,744. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. In other Southern news, CEO Stephen E. Kuczynski sold 5,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $66.00, for a total value of $330,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer now owns 116,284 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,674,744. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Martin Bernard Davis sold 1,490 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $67.05, for a total value of $99,904.50. Following the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 72,756 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,878,289.80. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Insiders have sold 21,490 shares of company stock worth $1,459,055 over the last ninety days. Corporate insiders own 0.28% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms have recently commented on SO. StockNews.com initiated coverage on shares of Southern in a research note on Thursday, October 5th. They set a sell rating for the company. Morgan Stanley reduced their target price on Southern from $69.00 to $66.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday. Guggenheim lowered their price target on Southern from $80.00 to $72.00 in a research note on Monday, October 9th. BMO Capital Markets reduced their price objective on Southern from $72.00 to $70.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, August 31st. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada lifted their target price on shares of Southern from $78.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating, five have given a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Southern presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $73.00.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on SO

Southern Trading Up 1.2 %

Shares of SO traded up $0.77 during mid-day trading on Thursday, reaching $67.38. The stock had a trading volume of 476,228 shares, compared to its average volume of 4,103,114. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.59, a current ratio of 0.83 and a quick ratio of 0.62. The businesss fifty day moving average is $67.34 and its 200 day moving average is $69.93. The Southern Company has a 52-week low of $58.85 and a 52-week high of $75.80. The firm has a market cap of $73.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.67, a P/E/G ratio of 4.61 and a beta of 0.53.

Southern (NYSE:SO  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, August 3rd. The utilities provider reported $0.79 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.74 by $0.05. Southern had a net margin of 11.17% and a return on equity of 9.86%. The business had revenue of $5.75 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.47 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.07 EPS. The businesss revenue was down 20.2% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, sell-side analysts predict that The Southern Company will post 3.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Southern Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 6th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 20th will be paid a $0.70 dividend. This represents a $2.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.16%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 17th. Southerns dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 98.94%.

Southern Profile

(Free Report)

The Southern Company, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. It operates through three segments: Gas Distribution Operations, Gas Pipeline Investments, and Gas Marketing Services. The company also develops, constructs, acquires, owns, and manages power generation assets, including renewable energy projects and sells electricity in the wholesale market; and distributes natural gas in Illinois, Georgia, Virginia, and Tennessee, as well as provides gas marketing services, gas distribution operations, and gas pipeline investments operations.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SO? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Southern Company (NYSE:SO  Free Report).

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Steel Peak Wealth Management LLC lifted its stake in shares of Union Pacific Co. (NYSE:UNP  Free Report) by 19.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 4,017 shares of the railroad operators stock after buying an additional 648 shares during the period. Steel Peak Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Union Pacific were worth $822,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC increased its holdings in shares of Union Pacific by 0.6% in the second quarter. Harbor Investment Advisory LLC now owns 7,926 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,622,000 after purchasing an additional 50 shares during the period. Pekin Hardy Strauss Inc. boosted its position in Union Pacific by 1.0% in the first quarter. Pekin Hardy Strauss Inc. now owns 5,413 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $1,089,000 after buying an additional 53 shares during the last quarter. TrinityPoint Wealth LLC increased its holdings in Union Pacific by 0.9% in the 1st quarter. TrinityPoint Wealth LLC now owns 6,301 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $1,268,000 after buying an additional 56 shares during the period. PFG Private Wealth Management LLC raised its position in Union Pacific by 14.5% during the 1st quarter. PFG Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 449 shares of the railroad operators stock worth $90,000 after buying an additional 57 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sage Mountain Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Union Pacific by 3.0% during the 2nd quarter. Sage Mountain Advisors LLC now owns 1,975 shares of the railroad operators stock valued at $404,000 after acquiring an additional 57 shares during the period. 77.36% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Union Pacific Trading Down 0.1 %

UNP opened at $205.22 on Thursday. The firm has a market capitalization of $125.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 1.12. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $212.29 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $208.37. Union Pacific Co. has a 1-year low of $183.69 and a 1-year high of $240.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.22, a current ratio of 0.72 and a quick ratio of 0.57.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Union Pacific ( NYSE:UNP Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 19th. The railroad operator reported $2.51 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.41 by $0.10. The firm had revenue of $5.94 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.96 billion. Union Pacific had a return on equity of 49.14% and a net margin of 26.37%. The firms revenue was down 9.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $3.19 earnings per share. Analysts expect that Union Pacific Co. will post 10.27 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Royal Bank of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $282.00 price objective on shares of Union Pacific in a research note on Friday, October 20th. Citigroup lifted their price objective on Union Pacific from $235.00 to $270.00 in a research note on Thursday, July 27th. Atlantic Securities downgraded Union Pacific from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $244.00 target price on the stock. in a research note on Thursday, July 27th. Benchmark reiterated a buy rating and set a $254.00 price target on shares of Union Pacific in a research report on Friday, October 20th. Finally, Raymond James upped their price objective on Union Pacific from $230.00 to $270.00 and gave the stock a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Ten investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, fourteen have issued a buy rating and one has issued a strong buy rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $237.08.

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Insider Activity at Union Pacific

In other Union Pacific news, CFO Jennifer L. Hamann sold 1,000 shares of Union Pacific stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, August 23rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $222.83, for a total transaction of $222,830.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now directly owns 99,378 shares of the companys stock, valued at $22,144,399.74. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. In other news, CFO Jennifer L. Hamann sold 1,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $222.83, for a total value of $222,830.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer now owns 99,378 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $22,144,399.74. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, EVP Kenyatta G. Rocker sold 8,700 shares of the stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 23rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $222.43, for a total value of $1,935,141.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president now owns 42,061 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,355,628.23. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. 0.28% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Union Pacific Profile

(Free Report)

Union Pacific Corporation, through its subsidiary, Union Pacific Railroad Company, operates in the railroad business in the United States. The company offers transportation services for grain and grain products, fertilizers, food and refrigerated products, and coal and renewables to grain processors, animal feeders, ethanol producers, and other agricultural users; petroleum, and liquid petroleum gases; and construction products, industrial chemicals, plastics, forest products, specialized products, metals and ores, soda ash, and sand, as well as finished automobiles, automotive parts, and merchandise in intermodal containers.

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Wambolt & Associates LLC lessened its position in Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL  Free Report) by 4.6% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 15,593 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 752 shares during the period. Wambolt & Associates LLCs holdings in Delta Air Lines were worth $741,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Coppell Advisory Solutions Corp. acquired a new stake in shares of Delta Air Lines in the 4th quarter worth about $28,000. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Delta Air Lines in the first quarter worth approximately $33,000. Carmel Capital Partners LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Delta Air Lines in the first quarter worth approximately $35,000. VitalStone Financial LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Delta Air Lines by 85.8% in the first quarter. VitalStone Financial LLC now owns 1,083 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $42,000 after purchasing an additional 500 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Financial Management Professionals Inc. boosted its position in shares of Delta Air Lines by 3,355.6% during the second quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 933 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $44,000 after buying an additional 906 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 71.29% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Joanne D. Smith sold 3,030 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $33.29, for a total transaction of $100,868.70. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 95,362 shares in the company, valued at $3,174,600.98. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through this link. In other Delta Air Lines news, EVP Steven M. Sear sold 12,129 shares of Delta Air Lines stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, August 9th. The shares were sold at an average price of $45.52, for a total transaction of $552,112.08. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president now directly owns 85,708 shares in the company, valued at $3,901,428.16. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, EVP Joanne D. Smith sold 3,030 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, October 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $33.29, for a total transaction of $100,868.70. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president now directly owns 95,362 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,174,600.98. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 49,549 shares of company stock worth $2,104,753. Corporate insiders own 0.89% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts have weighed in on the company. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft raised their price objective on Delta Air Lines from $47.00 to $58.00 in a research note on Wednesday, June 28th. TheStreet raised shares of Delta Air Lines from a c rating to a b rating in a research report on Thursday, July 13th. Citigroup reduced their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $64.00 to $56.00 in a research report on Wednesday, October 4th. Jefferies Financial Group dropped their target price on shares of Delta Air Lines from $60.00 to $50.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, September 29th. Finally, Barclays reduced their target price on Delta Air Lines from $58.00 to $50.00 in a report on Thursday, October 5th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, twelve have issued a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average price target of $54.40.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on DAL

Delta Air Lines Price Performance

Delta Air Lines stock opened at $31.41 on Thursday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.90, a current ratio of 0.44 and a quick ratio of 0.39. Delta Air Lines, Inc. has a one year low of $30.98 and a one year high of $49.81. The firm has a market capitalization of $20.21 billion, a P/E ratio of 5.95, a PEG ratio of 0.16 and a beta of 1.32. The business has a fifty day moving average price of $38.29 and a 200-day moving average price of $39.70.

Delta Air Lines (NYSE:DAL  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 12th. The transportation company reported $2.03 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.95 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $15.49 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.55 billion. Delta Air Lines had a return on equity of 54.95% and a net margin of 5.94%. The companys revenue was up 10.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.51 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Delta Air Lines, Inc. will post 6.08 EPS for the current year.

Delta Air Lines Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 2nd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, October 12th will be issued a $0.10 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, October 11th. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.27%. Delta Air Liness payout ratio is currently 7.58%.

Delta Air Lines Company Profile

(Free Report)

Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, and Seoul-Incheon.

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Wambolt & Associates LLC decreased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 3.9% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 6,235 shares of the companys stock after selling 256 shares during the quarter. Wambolt & Associates LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $609,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Green Square Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International during the second quarter worth $232,000. Herold Advisors Inc. lifted its holdings in Philip Morris International by 8.6% during the 2nd quarter. Herold Advisors Inc. now owns 5,484 shares of the companys stock valued at $535,000 after buying an additional 434 shares in the last quarter. EP Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Philip Morris International in the 1st quarter valued at about $98,000. Clear Harbor Asset Management LLC grew its stake in Philip Morris International by 59.0% in the 1st quarter. Clear Harbor Asset Management LLC now owns 4,214 shares of the companys stock worth $410,000 after acquiring an additional 1,563 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. grew its stake in Philip Morris International by 13.7% in the second quarter. Cambridge Investment Research Advisors Inc. now owns 200,438 shares of the companys stock worth $19,567,000 after purchasing an additional 24,207 shares in the last quarter. 79.70% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have weighed in on PM. Stifel Nicolaus reiterated a buy rating and issued a $114.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Monday, October 2nd. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $111.00 to $105.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 13th. Bank of America cut their target price on shares of Philip Morris International from $118.00 to $111.00 in a research report on Friday, September 29th. UBS Group reduced their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $116.00 to $112.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 5th. Finally, Barclays dropped their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $115.00 to $110.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, September 21st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, one has assigned a hold rating and nine have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $109.42.

Philip Morris International Stock Down 0.9 %

Shares of Philip Morris International stock opened at $90.03 on Thursday. The company has a market cap of $139.76 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.48, a PEG ratio of 1.95 and a beta of 0.71. The firms 50 day moving average price is $93.73 and its 200-day moving average price is $95.31. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 52-week low of $88.17 and a 52-week high of $105.62.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 19th. The company reported $1.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.62 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $9.14 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $9.21 billion. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 11.41% and a negative return on equity of 129.48%. Philip Morris Internationals revenue was up 13.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.53 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 6.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 12th. Investors of record on Wednesday, September 27th were paid a dividend of $1.30 per share. This represents a $5.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.78%. This is an increase from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.27. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 26th. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is 100.97%.

Philip Morris International Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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Webster Financial Co. (NYSE:WBS  Get Free Report) declared a quarterly dividend on Tuesday, October 24th, Zacks reports. Investors of record on Friday, November 3rd will be given a dividend of 0.40 per share by the financial services provider on Monday, November 13th. This represents a $1.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.33%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 2nd.

Webster Financial has raised its dividend payment by an average of 1.5% annually over the last three years. Webster Financial has a dividend payout ratio of 26.7% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Analysts expect Webster Financial to earn $6.02 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $1.60 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 26.6%.

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Webster Financial Price Performance

NYSE WBS opened at $36.97 on Thursday. Webster Financial has a twelve month low of $31.03 and a twelve month high of $56.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.36, a quick ratio of 0.86 and a current ratio of 0.86. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.41 billion, a PE ratio of 7.08 and a beta of 1.27. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $40.61 and a 200 day simple moving average of $39.71.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Webster Financial ( NYSE:WBS Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 19th. The financial services provider reported $1.55 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.49 by $0.06. Webster Financial had a return on equity of 13.65% and a net margin of 24.45%. The business had revenue of $677.50 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $686.11 million. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $1.46 EPS. The firms revenue was up 1.9% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts anticipate that Webster Financial will post 5.83 EPS for the current year.

Several research firms have commented on WBS. Wedbush upped their price target on Webster Financial from $40.00 to $50.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, July 21st. StockNews.com raised Webster Financial from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday. Jefferies Financial Group cut their price target on Webster Financial from $53.00 to $47.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 10th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on Webster Financial from $50.00 to $42.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 4th. Finally, Seaport Res Ptn reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Webster Financial in a report on Tuesday, September 12th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating and seven have given a buy rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $50.00.

View Our Latest Analysis on Webster Financial

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Webster Financial

A number of large investors have recently bought and sold shares of WBS. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in Webster Financial by 88.3% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 17,401,872 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $976,594,000 after acquiring an additional 8,161,424 shares during the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. grew its position in Webster Financial by 219.4% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 4,782,300 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $268,381,000 after acquiring an additional 3,285,002 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp grew its position in Webster Financial by 68.8% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 7,511,290 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $421,534,000 after acquiring an additional 3,061,831 shares during the last quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. grew its position in Webster Financial by 2,063.7% during the 2nd quarter. Point72 Asset Management L.P. now owns 1,888,900 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $71,306,000 after acquiring an additional 1,801,600 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new stake in Webster Financial during the 4th quarter worth approximately $84,632,000. 86.37% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Webster Financial

(Get Free Report)

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.

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Whitecap Resources Inc. (TSE:WCP  Get Free Report)s stock price traded down 4.8% during trading on Thursday after the company announced weaker than expected quarterly earnings. The company traded as low as C$10.43 and last traded at C$10.70. 1,185,857 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 40% from the average session volume of 1,963,237 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$11.24.

The company reported C$0.25 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of C$0.35 by C($0.10). Whitecap Resources had a net margin of 31.05% and a return on equity of 21.71%. The firm had revenue of C$1.03 billion for the quarter.

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Whitecap Resources Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, November 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, October 31st will be paid a $0.061 dividend. This is an increase from Whitecap Resourcess previous monthly dividend of $0.05. The ex-dividend date is Monday, October 30th. This represents a $0.73 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.88%. Whitecap Resourcess dividend payout ratio is presently 41.24%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

WCP has been the subject of a number of recent research reports. ATB Capital upped their target price on Whitecap Resources from C$15.00 to C$16.00 in a report on Friday, October 20th. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on Whitecap Resources from C$13.75 to C$14.75 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, September 1st. National Bankshares lifted their target price on Whitecap Resources from C$16.50 to C$18.50 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 12th. Royal Bank of Canada upped their price target on Whitecap Resources from C$13.00 to C$14.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, July 27th. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group lifted their price objective on Whitecap Resources from C$13.00 to C$15.00 in a research note on Friday, October 20th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a hold rating, six have assigned a buy rating and one has assigned a strong buy rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Whitecap Resources presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$14.81.

Check Out Our Latest Report on WCP

Whitecap Resources Stock Performance

The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 0.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 24.26. The firm has a market capitalization of C$6.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 6.35, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.33 and a beta of 2.83. The companys 50 day moving average is C$11.24 and its 200-day moving average is C$10.47.

About Whitecap Resources

(Get Free Report)

Whitecap Resources Inc, an oil and gas company, focuses on the acquisition, development, and production of oil and gas assets in Western Canada. The company's primary areas of focus of its development programs are in Northern Alberta and British Columbia, Central Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Whitecap Resources Inc was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada.

Further Reading

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Winthrop Advisory Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Visa Inc. (NYSE:V  Free Report) by 11.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 6,485 shares of the credit-card processors stock after acquiring an additional 645 shares during the quarter. Winthrop Advisory Group LLCs holdings in Visa were worth $1,540,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich boosted its holdings in Visa by 107,990.7% during the 2nd quarter. Bank Julius Baer & Co. Ltd Zurich now owns 1,998,628,576 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $474,634,314,000 after acquiring an additional 1,996,779,546 shares during the period. State Street Corp boosted its holdings in Visa by 3.7% during the 1st quarter. State Street Corp now owns 72,897,112 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $16,435,339,000 after acquiring an additional 2,572,159 shares during the period. Morgan Stanley boosted its holdings in Visa by 13.0% during the 4th quarter. Morgan Stanley now owns 51,122,866 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $10,621,287,000 after acquiring an additional 5,864,340 shares during the period. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Visa by 116,608.6% during the 4th quarter. Moneta Group Investment Advisors LLC now owns 24,504,130 shares of the credit-card processors stock valued at $5,090,978,000 after acquiring an additional 24,483,134 shares during the period. Finally, Norges Bank bought a new position in Visa during the 4th quarter valued at approximately $3,067,232,000. 81.35% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Visa

In other Visa news, insider Rajat Taneja sold 15,800 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total transaction of $3,950,158.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares of the companys stock, valued at $58,030,321.12. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In other Visa news, CEO Ryan Mcinerney sold 8,150 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $247.47, for a total transaction of $2,016,880.50. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, insider Rajat Taneja sold 15,800 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $250.01, for a total value of $3,950,158.00. Following the sale, the insider now directly owns 232,112 shares in the company, valued at $58,030,321.12. The disclosure for this sale can be found here. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 40,250 shares of company stock worth $9,879,039. Corporate insiders own 0.22% of the companys stock.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

V has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Oppenheimer upped their price target on Visa from $248.00 to $252.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 18th. Barclays lowered their price target on Visa from $287.00 to $285.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, October 12th. KeyCorp upped their price target on Visa from $265.00 to $275.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 18th. HSBC assumed coverage on Visa in a research report on Friday, October 13th. They issued a hold rating and a $266.00 target price for the company. Finally, Royal Bank of Canada increased their target price on Visa from $265.00 to $290.00 in a research report on Wednesday, July 26th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have given a hold rating and fifteen have assigned a buy rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $276.57.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Visa

Visa Stock Performance

Shares of V opened at $236.76 on Thursday. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $239.08 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $234.92. The company has a current ratio of 1.49, a quick ratio of 1.49 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55. Visa Inc. has a 12 month low of $193.32 and a 12 month high of $250.06. The company has a market cap of $440.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.56, a P/E/G ratio of 1.59 and a beta of 0.96.

Visa (NYSE:V  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 24th. The credit-card processor reported $2.33 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.23 by $0.10. The business had revenue of $8.61 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $8.56 billion. Visa had a return on equity of 50.40% and a net margin of 52.90%. The companys revenue was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.93 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Visa Inc. will post 9.76 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Visa Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 1st. Investors of record on Thursday, November 9th will be given a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 8th. This is an increase from Visas previous quarterly dividend of $0.45. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.88%. Visas payout ratio is 21.71%.

Visa Company Profile

(Free Report)

Visa Inc operates as a payments technology company worldwide. The company operates VisaNet, a transaction processing network that enables authorization, clearing, and settlement of payment transactions. It also offers credit, debit, and prepaid card products; tap to pay, tokenization, click to pay; Visa Direct, a real-time payments network; Visa B2B Connect, a multilateral B2B cross-border payments network; Visa Treasury as a Service, a cross-border consumer payments business; and Visa DPS that provides a range of value added services, including fraud mitigation, dispute management, data analytics, campaign management, a suite of digital solutions, and contact center services.

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The irresponsible and nonsensical views of Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly targeting Azerbaijan have already become a tradition. Lately, while being in Armenia, the Canadian minister made statements accusing Azerbaijan. " This statement was made by the Western Azerbaijani Community in response to false statements by the Canadian Foreign Ministry.

The fact that the Canadian minister, who urged Azerbaijan to allow the return of Armenians from Garabagh, did not address the same appeal to the Armenian government regarding the return of expelled Azerbaijanis, and that Canada did not call on Armenia to end the occupation of Azerbaijani territories even once in 30 years, and that now calls Azerbaijan to respect the territorial integrity of Armenia, clearly stems from the crusader mentality of M. Joly, the Western Azerbaijan Community said in a statement.

Canadian ministers visit to a combat position of the Armenian Army on the border with Azerbaijan is an obvious provocation and shows M. Joly's dilettantism and prejudice against Azerbaijan. It is completely unacceptable that a representative of Canada, a country located on the other side of the ocean, visits a combat position on the border and observes Azerbaijan with binoculars. This actually shows that Canada sees Azerbaijan as an enemy.

The Canadian minister's threat of sanctions against Azerbaijan is ironic and disgusting. Canada should know its place and not make itself a laughing stock with such baseless and hysterical statements. M. Joly seems to be emulating Yuri Kim, who once attempted to take a commanding tone when addressing Azerbaijan.

We resolutely reject the "lectures" by hypocrites, those who embarked on a "new crusade" and by the country whose history is full of shameful pages against indigenous peoples, whose police, security, and border services have established a mechanism of control over individuals on the basis of ethnicity and religion (the practice of "racial profiling"), the Community adds.
Elon Musk. STEFANI REYNOLDS/AFP via Getty Images)

Wall Street helped Elon Musk buy Twitter last year by loaning him $13 billion.

The banks are now preparing to unload the debt, and expect to take a 15% hit, per the WSJ.

The biggest lenders like Morgan Stanley and Bank of America would lose hundreds of millions of dollars.

The banks which helped Elon Musk take over Twitter are expecting to lose $2 billion on the loans they gave him, according to The Wall Street Journal.

When the world's richest person agreed to buy the social media company for $44 billion last October, $13 billion was loaned by the likes of Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, and Barclays. The loans are backed by some of Musk's Tesla stock.

In the year Musk has owned the platform, X  as Twitter is now called  has faced a number of struggles.

Downloads of the app fell by almost 30% between July and September, according to data from Apptopia. And the marketing consultancy Ebiquity, which works with 70 of the world's top 100 advertisers, says just two of them advertised on X last month.

Fidelity, the asset manager which owns a stake in the company, has marked Twitter's valuation down by two-thirds. That would make the company worth around $15 billion.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Musk's lenders have started preparing to unload the debt.

Bankers close to the deal told The Journal that X could be given a junk-bond rating, meaning it is at risk of defaulting on the loans, due to both Musk's controversial management style and a waning ad market.

People familiar with the matter told the newspaper that the banks are expecting to take a hit of 15%, or $2 billion in total.

For the banks which hold the largest pieces, like Morgan Stanley and BofA, that would mean hundreds of millions in losses, according to the Journal.

X, Morgan Stanley, BofA, and Barclays did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment, sent outside US working hours.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Click the photo and watch the video.

* China will launch the Shenzhou-17 crewed spaceship at 11:14 a.m. Thursday (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China.

* Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin will carry out the Shenzhou-17 manned spaceflight mission, with Tang Hongbo as the commander.

JIUQUAN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua)  Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin will carry out the Shenzhou-17 manned spaceflight mission, with Tang Hongbo as the commander, the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) announced on Wednesday.

The Shenzhou-17 crew has the youngest lineup since the construction of China's Tiangong space station started. It is also the first spaceflight team to consist of one veteran from China's second batch of astronauts and two space rookies from the third batch of astronauts.

The Shenzhou-17 crewed spaceship will be launched at 11:14 a.m. Thursday (Beijing Time) from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China, Lin Xiqiang, deputy director of the CMSA, said at a press conference.

Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo (C), Tang Shengjie (R) and Jiang Xinlin for the upcoming Shenzhou-17 spaceflight mission meet the press at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China on Oct. 25, 2023. [Xinhua/Li Gang]

After joining the second batch of Chinese astronauts in 2010, Tang Hongbo flew to space for the first time in the three-month Shenzhou-12 mission in June 2021, the first crewed mission for China's space station construction. He received a third-class medal and the honorary title "heroic astronaut" in November 2021.

As the commander of the Shenzhou-17 mission, Tang Hongbo will be the first astronaut to return to China's space station. He also set a new record for the shortest interval between two spaceflight missions by Chinese astronauts.

To return to the space station, Tang Hongbo completed his physical recovery and mental adjustment as quickly as possible, and underwent learning and training for the new mission at the same time. He was selected as a member of the Shenzhou-17 mission within a year of returning to Earth.

"I'm staying true to my mission to do a spaceflight for my country," he said at the press conference. "It never changes, and I have never slacked off."

The commander said he shared his flying experience without reservation and gave a rule of thumb to his crewmates: to err is human and therefore following the handbook closely is always the golden rule.

This undated photo shows Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo (C), Tang Shengjie (R) and Jiang Xinlin who will carry out the Shenzhou-17 spaceflight mission. Chinese astronauts Tang Hongbo, Tang Shengjie, and Jiang Xinlin will carry out the Shenzhou-17 manned spaceflight mission, and Tang Hongbo will be the commander, the China Manned Space Agency announced at a press conference on Wednesday. [Xinhua]

Tang Shengjie and Jiang Xinlin are newcomers to space. They joined China's third batch of astronauts in September 2020.

Born in December 1989, Tang Shengjie is currently the youngest Chinese astronaut to carry out a space mission. He served in China's Air Force as a first-class pilot.

Born in a small village in northwest China's Gansu Province, he had to walk a long distance to school along a mountain road every day since he was six years old, and did so for eight years.

After graduating from high school, he entered China's Aviation University of Air Force and became a fighter pilot. In his nearly 13 years of service, he flew six types of aircraft.

From a young age, Tang Shengjie showed considerable hands-on ability. Villagers often asked him to repair their broken electrical appliances. These days, he has a particular talent for the professional skills training needed by astronauts. Every time there was an operational course, Tang Shengjie would feel very excited.

He enjoys photography very much, and is looking forward to watching beautiful planets from a different perspective in space and recording the wonders of the universe.

Like many of his predecessors, Jiang, born in February 1988, is a pilot-turned-astronaut. However, before venturing into the sky, he drove tanks. The control of a tank on the ground is quite similar to the underwater training for astronauts, as they both require upper-body strength, said Jiang.

He won fame at the university by executing a safe emergency brake maneuver when he realized his engine speed indicator was abnormal just as he was beginning to take off. The beginner pilot did not hesitate and throttled down the engine decisively, opened the decelerating umbrella, braked to decelerate, and completed a smooth stop on the runway.

Through years of hard work, Jiang became increasingly fascinated with flying and cultivated his dream of soaring higher. After being selected for the Shenzhou-17 crew, he focused on making the training more efficient and innovating with his team members. For instance, he studied body language and provided the crew with training tips to help improve their teamwork.

At Wednesday's press conference, Jiang said that achieving his space dream is an "incredible honor" and that the country's development in the new era has provided him with the precious opportunity to showcase his skills.

The trio will stay in orbit for about six months, Lin said at the press conference.

This photo taken on Oct. 19, 2023 shows the combination of the Shenzhou-17 crewed spaceship and a Long March-2F carrier rocket being transferred to the launching area of the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. [Photo by Wang Jiangbo/Xinhua]

According to Lin, the Shenzhou-17 crew will perform various in-orbit space science and application payload tests and experiments. They will carry out extravehicular activities (EVAs), install extravehicular payloads and conduct space station maintenance and other tasks.

The Shenzhou-17 astronauts will perform extravehicular experimental maintenance for the first time, which is a very challenging task as the space station's solar wings have been hit by tiny space particles several times, causing minor damage, Lin added.

"I am confident in, committed to and capable of accomplishing the Shenzhou-17 mission with my two crew mates," said Tang Hongbo at Wednesday's press conference.

Video reporters: Mei Yuanlong, Ruan Shuai, Jiang Sai, Peng Yuan, Ye Ziyan, Zhang Sheng;

Video editors: Yu Jiaming, Jia Xiaotong, Zhang Yuhong, Liu Ruoshi, Wei Yin, Lin Lin

(Source: Xinhua)
Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Huang Jingwen]

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua)  Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday.

The two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership.

Xi pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, bilateral relations between China and Colombia have stood the test of international changes and maintained a sound momentum of development.

He said the two sides have shown mutual understanding and support on issues concerning each other's core interests and major concerns, made solid progress in cooperation across the board, and constantly deepened friendship between the two peoples.

The establishment of the strategic partnership is the result of the long-term efforts of all sectors of the two countries, and also a natural manifestation of mutual trust and cooperation between the two sides, Xi noted, adding that such a result should be cherished by both sides and continuously enriched and developed.

"China is willing to work with Colombia to promote the China-Colombia strategic partnership to better benefit the two peoples and inject positive energy into world peace and development," he said.

Xi said China supports Colombia's independent exploration of a development path suited to its national conditions, supports the peace process in Colombia, hopes that Colombia can realize comprehensive, lasting and sustainable peace at an early date, and believes that China's high-quality development and modernization process will bring new development opportunities to Colombia and other countries.

China-Colombia relations are based on equality, mutual benefit and win-win results, Xi said, adding that Colombia is welcome to join the big family of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) at an early date to achieve common development and prosperity.

Xi called on the two sides to make good use of the mixed economic and trade committee mechanism, optimize bilateral trade structure, and strengthen cooperation in information, communications, digital economy and other fields. China encourages more high-quality Colombian products to enter the Chinese market, he added.

He also called for joint efforts to strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and strengthen bilateral law enforcement cooperation, expressing hope that Colombia can better ensure the safety of Chinese citizens, enterprises and institutions in the country.

As developing countries, China and Colombia should strengthen communication and coordination in international affairs to safeguard the common interests of developing countries and international fairness and justice, Xi said.

Xi also said China attaches great importance to developing relations with Latin America and the Caribbean, and is willing to continue to support the regional integration process in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Petro said Colombia is ready to synergize its geographical advantage and its development strategies with the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in infrastructure and clean energy.

Colombia is willing to maintain communication with China on the Palestinian-Israeli issue, among others, and push for a solution to stop the war and cool down the situation as soon as possible, said Petro, adding that Colombia welcomes the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Xi, and is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral mechanisms.

After the talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents.

The two sides issued a joint statement on the establishment of the strategic partnership.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Ding Lin]

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Huang Jingwen]

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan]

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcoming ceremony for Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego in the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People prior to their talks in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. Xi held talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, in Beijing on Wednesday. [Xinhua/Ding Haitao]

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds talks with Colombian President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2023. [Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan]

(Source: Xinhua)
BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua)  Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday sent a congratulatory message to Daniel Noboa on his election as president of the Republic of Ecuador.

In his message, Xi said that Ecuador is an important country in Latin America.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 43 years ago, the two countries have seen close high-level exchanges, deepened political mutual trust, fruitful cooperation results in various fields and profound traditional friendship, Xi said.

Noting that he attaches great importance to the development of China-Ecuador relations, Xi said he stands ready to work with President-elect Noboa to continuously enrich the China-Ecuador comprehensive strategic partnership and better benefit their people.

(Source: Xinhua)
Fortune Business Insights

Global Battery Electrolyte Market to Grow Exponentially Owing to Surge in Consumer Electronics Adoption Worldwide; Increased Share of Alternative Energy Sources for Energy Mix to Boost Global Battery Electrolyte Market: Fortune Business Insights

Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global battery electrolyte market is projected to grow at high CAGR in the forecast period on account of increasing partnerships among market vendors, predicts Fortune Business Insights in their new report titled, Battery Electrolyte Market Size, Share and Global Trend By Electrolyte Type (Liquid. Solid, Gel), By Battery Type (Lithium-ion, Lead Acid) and Geography Forecast till 2026. In order to acquire the shares of Cleanpart Group GmbH, an agreement was signed between two companies namely, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG and Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation in August 2018. The Cleanpart Group GmbH has developed its semi-conductor related services in the U.S. and Europe and all these shares were turned over in October 2019.Such innovations, according to the report by Fortune Business Insights, will bode well for the market in the forecast period.

Request a Sample Copy of the Research Report: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/request-sample-pdf-pop/battery-electrolyte-market-100986

Key Industry Developments

In Aug 2018, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation announced that it has reached an agreement with Deutsche Beteiligungs AG to acquire shares of Cleanpart Group GmbH, which has developed semiconductor-related services in Europe and the U.S. All the shares were turned over in October of this year.

In May 2019, Umicore announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire the cobalt refining and cathode precursor activities of Freeport Cobalt in Kokkola, Finland, for a total debt and cash-free consideration of $150 million, plus the working capital to be acquired at the end of March, which amounted to approximately $40 million. Through this acquisition, Umicore is aimimg to expand its integrated battery materials footprint.

Story continues

Drivers & Restraints -

Rise in Popularity of Alternative Energy Sources to Promote Market Growth

The rise in demand for electric vehicles for decreasing carbon footprint is a major factor boosting the battery electrolyte market. In addition, the rapid growth of automotive revenue and increased demand for battery replacement is also having a positive effect on market growth worldwide. Furthermore, the rise in the share of alternative energy sources for energy mix will also promote the growth of the market in the forecast period.

On the flipside, since electric vehicles run on lithium-ion battery electrolytes, the capital cost of electric vehicles is high as compared to the ones running on conventional fuel. This may pose a challenge to the battery electrolyte market price in the forecast duration. Nevertheless, the rise in the adoption of consumer electronics is anticipated to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market in the long run.

COVID-19 Impact

The global pandemic has negatively impacted the growth of several industries and markets, including the battery electrolyte market. The stringent governmental regulations like lockdowns and curfews imposed to curb the spread of the virus have affected the operations and supply chain networks of major businesses operating in the market. The low available workforce resulted in reduced production levels. Many businesses reported shrunken revenues during the pandemic. However, vaccines are now available to the masses, and the market is gradually gaining traction. The market is expected to witness steep growth post-pandemic.

To get to know more about the short-term and long-term impact of COVID-19 on this market, please visit: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/battery-electrolyte-market-100986

Competitive Landscape

The battery electrolyte competitive landscape is dynamic, encompassing major players like UBE Industries and LG Chem. Emerging solid-state technology innovators such as QuantumScape are making strides. Startups like Wildcat Discovery Technologies and materials suppliers like Albemarle play pivotal roles. Asian companies dominate vertically integrated production. Environmental regulations, R&D collaborations, global reach, and sustainability concerns are influential. The sector is heavily influenced by the growing demand for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Adapting to market trends is key in a rapidly evolving industry.

Segmentation

As per the current battery electrolyte market trends, Fortune Business Insights studies the market into the following three categories, namely electrolyte type, battery type, and geography. In terms of electrolyte type, the market is classified into solid, liquid, and gel. With respect to battery type, the market is bifurcated into lead-acid and lithium-ion.

Pre-book Battery Electrolyte Market Research Paper: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/checkout-page/100986



Regional Insights

Asia Pacific to remain Dominant on account of Surge in Number of telecom Towers

As per the report, the battery electrolyte market is anticipated to be dominated by Asia Pacific on account of the increasing demand for these batteries from various end use industries. These industries include portable consumer electronics, energy storage, and electric vehicles. Additionally, the surge in the number of telecom towers, coupled with the rise in awareness about clean energy generation is further expected to help the regional market gain momentum. Besides this, the rise in sales of automobiles, declining cost of solar energy, and increasing command for industrial storage are likely to help this region continue its dominance in the coming years as well.

On the other side, the multi-government strategy called Electric Vehicles Initiative (EVI) adopted in North America will help to speed up the adoption of these vehicles in the region. The battery electrolyte market in Europe is expected to witness remarkable growth on account of the government-supported strategies which includes the offering of subsidies to the manufacturing of electric vehicles. This will augment the demand for battery electrolytes in Electric vehicle batteries and ultimately generate high revenue in the coming years.

List of the Key Players Profiled in the Global Market

Ohara Corporation

Daikin America Inc

POSCO

Advanced Electrolyte Technologies

Ube Industries

LLC

Nohms Technologies Inc.

American Elements

Ceramtec

3M

Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd.

Hitachi Chemical

Toray Industries Inc.

Umicore

Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings

Have Any Query? Ask Our Experts: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/queries/battery-electrolyte-market-100986

Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities

Key Insights

Key Industry Developments - Merger, Acquisitions, and Partnerships

Distribution Analysis

Porters Five Forces Analysis

PEST Analysis

Technological Developments

Impact of COVID-19

Continued

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https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/enquiry/ask-for-customization/battery-electrolyte-market-100986





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Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.

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Arrest warrant issued for suspect after 18 killed in shooting rampage in Maine as manhunt continues, officials say
Community members arrive at their local polling location to vote in November 2022, in Atlanta, Georgia. A federal judge on October 26 ordered Georgia to draw new congressional and state legislative maps.
Israel conducts raid in Gaza as Netanyahu says ground incursion will come
(Bloomberg) -- South Korean companies are rushing to buy more graphite from China before export controls on electric vehicle battery ingredient take effect in December.

Most Read from Bloomberg

LG Energy Solution Ltd. said on an earnings call on Wednesday that it will try and buy more graphite as soon as possible prior to the measures kicking in. Posco Future M Co., a battery-electrode maker, is also making efforts to maintain the proper levels of stockpiles before the Dec. 1 deadline, it said in an emailed response to questions.

Chinas Ministry of Commerce said last Friday that it will place some types of graphite under export controls in order to safeguard national security. While the measures dont necessarily mean shipments will be banned, the announcement unnerved EV makers given the country accounts for about 60% of worlds natural graphite production capacity, and 90% for the synthetic variety.

The Chinese controls on graphite come amid increased competition between Beijing and Washington for materials critical to the energy transition and high-tech sectors, and happened just days after the White House stepped up efforts to keep advanced chips out of China. In August, Beijing restricted exports of gallium and germanium  crucial to the semiconductor and telecommunications industries  before resuming some volumes the following month.

Gallium and germanium have jumped 20% to 30% since the restrictions, and its likely graphite prices could increase by a similar amount, said Steve Man, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence.

Exports that comply with requirements will be approved, said Shu Jueting, spokeswoman at the Ministry of Commerce, during a press briefing on Thursday, adding that China is dedicated to ensuring the security and stability of global supply chains. Its not targeted at any specific country, region, or sector.

Story continues

South Korean battery manufacturers are heavily reliant on graphite imports. The countrys trade ministry said Monday its looking to African countries  including Mozambique and Tanzania  to address potential shortfalls of the material. The ministry said it will also seek to bring forward the start of of a domestic synthetic graphite factory scheduled to open next year.

Both LG Energy and Posco Future M said they didnt regard Chinas move as an export ban, but rather a new process for approvals. Posco Future M said it has enough graphite stockpiles to last 1.5 months, and the measure will not impact production, adding that its seeking to diversify supply by investing in mining rights in Tanzania.

Read More: China Tightens Export Controls on Battery-Making Graphite

We see the halting of ex-China battery production as improbable, but assuming the status quo remains, natural graphite products will see increased administrative barriers, said Matthew Langsford, a portfolio manager at Terra Capital, which holds stocks of graphite producers.

Graphite is an essential ingredient in EV battery anodes, a terminal inside a rechargeable cell. Battery makers can either use natural graphite extracted from mines to make anodes, or a synthetic material thats typically more expensive but lasts longer, charges faster and improves safety.

Some anode manufacturers outside China may face short-term shortages and not be able to deliver to cell manufacturers in time, but theres unlikely to be delays in cell manufacturing and packaging for the time being, research firm Sinolytics said in a note.

Australian graphite miner Syrah Resources Ltd., which has a graphite mine in Mozambique and an anode material facility in the US, said there were likely to be more inventory purchases by non-Chinese buyers of the material. Uncertainty regarding the impact of the Chinese restrictions is expected to continue into 2024, it said in a stock exchange filing.

--With assistance from Tom Hancock, James Mayger and Yujing Liu.

(Added comments by Chinas Ministry of Commerce in 6th paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
After three weeks of conflict within the Republican Party, the House of Representatives elected an extreme right Trump ally as speaker. Representative Mike Johnson of Louisiana, who previously occupied a minor position in the House leadership, won on a straight party-line vote, backed by 220 Republicans, while 209 Democrats voted for House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

While opposition from sizeable groups of Republicans, either outright fascists like the Gang of Eight who brought down then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy on October 3, or moderates who blocked the election of rabid right-winger Jim Jordan, defeated three previous nomineesHouse Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Jordan and House Majority Whip Tom EmmerJohnson faced no opposition from either quarter.

Rep. Mike Johnson, Republican-Louisiana., takes the oath to be the new House speaker from the Dean of the House, Rep. Hal Rogers, Republican-Kentucky, at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, October 25, 2023. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon]

He has maintained a relatively low profile since his election to Congress in 2016, representing the Fourth District of Louisiana, centered on the city of Shreveport, and comprising the entire northwest portion of the state, along the borders with Texas and Arkansas. His seven years in the House rank him only 98th in seniority among the 222 Republicans.

Johnson did not join the fascistic House Freedom Caucus, but moved up through the Republican Study Committee, the largest conservative caucus in the House, becoming its chairman for a two-year term in 2019. He then took a minor position in the leadership as deputy chair of the Republican Caucus. He was a member of two powerful committees, Judiciary and Armed Services, and held a seat on the Select Committee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, established to counterattack the prosecution of Donald Trump for the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol.

The future speaker played a significant role during the period leading up to the mob attack, first helping organize a lawsuit against the half dozen battleground states won by Biden, seeking to have the state legislatures overturn the results of the popular vote. The Republican-dominated Supreme Court dismissed the suit without even a hearing. Later Johnson drafted a measure to justify Republican representatives voting not to certify the Biden victory, and some two-thirds of the House Republican caucus, 139 members in all, joined him in that vote, held only hours after Trumps fascist mob had vacated the Capitol.

Johnson and his backers flatly refused to discuss their campaign to deny Bidens victory in the 2020 elections. When Johnson was introduced to the media Tuesday night as the Republican nominee for speaker, ABC correspondent Rachel Scott pointed out that he helped lead the effort to overturn the 2020 election results and tried to ask him if he stood by that position today.

The Republican representatives around him began to boo the reporter, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise laughed, and North Carolina Congresswoman Virginia Foxx screamed, Shut up! Shut up! Johnson turned away, declaring, Next question, without answering Scott.

Trump backed Johnsons campaign to become speaker after previously denouncing the candidacy of Tom Emmer, whom he branded a RINO and globalist because Emmer had voted to certify Bidens election, and later supported the passage of a continuing resolution to prevent a shutdown of the federal government on September 30.

It was McCarthys agreement with the White House and the Democratic-controlled Senate to pass the continuing resolution that led to the move by the eight fascists to declare the office of speaker vacant, in a vote where all Democrats joined in to remove McCarthy.

Johnson is an evangelical Protestant who vehemently opposes both abortion and homosexuality, which he has branded a perversion. His wife is a lay pastor and the two have recorded a series of podcasts that lay out their extreme religious views.

The new speaker touched on this theme in his acceptance speech, in which he cited scripture and the Bible, and declared God has allowed us to be brought here to this specific moment and time. He cited the action of the House in 1962 to emboss the words In God We Trust above the House chamber, adding, This motto was placed here as a rebuke of the Cold War-era philosophy of the Soviet Union. That was Marxism and Communism, which begins with the premise there is no God.

Citing the words of author G. K. Chesterton that America is the only nation in the world that is founded upon a creed, he continued, All men are created equal, not born equal, created equal and endowed by the same inalienable rights: life, liberty, pursuit of happiness.

This is an utter distortion of the famous language of the Declaration of Independence, written by Thomas Jefferson, who also wrote of the wall of separation between church and state being the basis of American political organization.

Significantly, Johnson made a series of conciliatory gestures towards the Democratic Party. He made no mention of the initial steps toward an impeachment of President Biden, which McCarthy had permitted to go forward in a desperate effort to appease the fascists and save his job. Nor did he refer to the 2020 election as stolen or suggest that Bidens presidency was illegitimate.

And he offered to establish a bipartisan commission on the federal debt, calling it the greatest threat to our national security, now passing $33.6 trillion. He called the debt unsustainable, and said that reducing it wont be an easy task and tough decisions have to be made. The commission was initially proposed by the Democrats during the debt ceiling crisis earlier this year.

Most importantly, from the standpoint of the Biden White House, he did not repeat his prior position of opposing further US military and economic aid to Ukraine, the central part of Bidens request for a supplemental military appropriation of $105 billion for the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, and the preparations for war against China.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries made Ukraine a major focus of his speech after the election of Johnson. While hailing the bipartisan consensus on further aid to Israel to enable its mass slaughter in Gaza, he added, We must also support Ukraine and its courageous effort to defeat Russian aggression.

There are only two paths in front of us. We can either stand up for Ukraine, or bow down to Vladimir Putin.

He continued, It is my expectation that in the next week or so the Senate will send over for consideration a bipartisan national security funding package for Israel, Ukraine, and our other allies throughout the free world The House of Representatives should take up this national security package and humanitarian relief package immediately in totality, and without delay.

The Democrats accommodated themselves to the new speaker, voting near-unanimously for the first bill he put on the floor of the House, a resolution of support for Israel in its war in Gaza, which passed 41210, with nine Democrats and one Republican voting against it. Six Democrats voted present.

Meanwhile, Trumps closest supporters in the House gloated over the result of their efforts over the past three weeks. Representative Matt Gaetz, speaking on the podcast of Trumps fascist former adviser Steve Bannon, said, If you dont think that moving from Kevin McCarthy to MAGA Mike Johnson shows the ascendance of this movement and where the power in the Republican Party truly lies, then youre not paying attention.
At a joint White House press conference this afternoon with US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese gave unalloyed support to the eruption of American militarism all over the globe.

President Joe Biden listens as Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks during a State Dinner at the White House, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023, in Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

On such visits, Australian leaders have invariably done everything they can to demonstrate their alignment with US imperialism. Even by those standards, however, Albaneses remarks were of an extraordinarily fawning and ingratiating character. He was at pains to emphasise that there was no daylight whatsoever between his Labor government and a US administration that is on the warpath in every corner of the world.

Speaking of the crisis in the Middle East, Albanese said: Mr President, we applaud the personal resolve you have brought to this troubled part of the world. You have spoken with moral clarity and you have stood up for a simple principle.

Those remarks were obscene. Historical analogies have their limits, but such a description of Bidens role in the Middle East would be akin, 80 years ago, to congratulating Hitler for the moral clarity and principle he had brought to Eastern Europe. Albanese presented the arsonist in chief as the firefighter.

Bidens administration has greenlighted Israels unprecedented bombardment of Gaza, which has the unmistakeable character of a genocide aimed at completing the dispossession of the Palestinian people.

Albanese frothed over the October 7 military action of Hamas, but said nothing about the more than 6,000 Palestinians who have been killed in little over two weeks since then. His vague references to the sanctity of civilian life were an exercise in gross hypocrisy given that Australia, together with the US, has given total support to the Israeli onslaught.

A joint statement issued by Biden and Albanese after their meeting fully backed the further crimes of the Zionist regime, proclaiming: Our countries will support Israel as it defends itself and its people against such atrocities. We affirm Israel's inherent right to defend itself. In doing so, in line with the values we share as democracies

As if to drive home the point, shortly after the joint conference, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong angrily denounced suggestions that Israels carpet bombing constituted collective punishment and a war crime. Wong has similarly rejected calls for an immediate ceasefire, instead issuing a statement yesterday politely suggesting humanitarian pauses, i.e., brief intervals between bombing raids to dampen down public outrage.

Notwithstanding Albaneses paeans to Biden as a peacemaker of the Middle East, the US is scrambling forces to the region as it moves towards a broader confrontation, including with Iran.

Australia is joining these preparations, with Defence Minister Marles announcing earlier this week, during Albaneses Washington visit, that two military aircraft have been dispatched to an unspecified location in the Middle East in anticipation of contingencies. Marles confirmed they would be accompanied by a substantial troop deployment. The exact numbers are shrouded in secrecy.

The full backing for militarism in the Middle East was just one component of Albaneses remarks, which hailed the role of American militarism all over the world.

American leadership is indispensable, but it is not inevitable. It takes a leader to deliver it, Albanese declared, praising Biden.

He made clear that the US-Australia partnership centred on military and defence collaboration, which he previously described during his Washington visit, as the first pillar of the alliance. Albanese stated: And it is our people that we honour when we remember the generations of Australians and Americans who have fought and fallen together. Our veterans and all those who have given the cause of peace their last full measure of devotion.

Albanese gratuitously cited Bidens deceased son: [I]n reflecting on this century of service, Im reminded of a sentiment you have shared before from an American soldier talking about his time in Iraq: You know when theres an Australian with you, theyll always have your back. A generous thought from a man of courage and character, Major Beau Biden.

The reference to Iraq was hardly accidental. In choosing to highlight one of the worst atrocities by the US and its allies, an illegal war for oil that claimed more than a million lives, Albanese was signalling that there is no line Australia will not cross in its support for US-led operations.

This includes Australian support for the US-NATO proxy war against Russia in Ukraine. While in Washington Albansese committed another $20 million in arms and equipment, bringing the Australian total to over $900 million.

The central focus of the US-Australia alliance, however, is on American imperialisms escalating preparations for war with China, which Washington views as the chief economic threat to its global domination.

While Albanese said little on this score, Biden launched a broadside against Beijing and openly touted US confrontation against it. China has engaged in activities, that Russia and many others have engaged in, in terms of intimidation with other countries, Biden declared, without providing a skerrick of evidence. The likening of Chinas actions to those of Russia is highly threatening insofar as Washington is already engaged in a de facto military conflict with Moscow.

Pointing to the real thrust of the US concerns, dominance over the strategically decisive Eurasian landmass, Biden denounced Chinas Belt and Road economic and infrastructure initiative as a noose. He added, the Belt and Road Initiative, well, were going to compete on that, and were doing it a different way. The US was and would remain a Pacific nation, Biden declared.

While in Washington, Albanese has lobbied for Congress to pass Bidens massive $105 billion military spending package, especially that part of it that will fund AUKUS, the US, Australian and British military pact directed against China. Albanese is pressing ahead with the plans for Australia to acquire a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines, at a cost of $368 billion, as one plank of a vast militarisation of the country.

The joint statement underscored the breadth of US-Australian collaboration and the extent to which it centres on preparations for war. Among the measures announced are further cyber-intelligence capabilities in a deal involving Microsoft and an expanded partnership relating to critical minerals, a key area of competition with China. The statement emphasised the need to protect supply chains, a measure that emerges in the context of imminent armed conflict.

It hailed the ever-greater integration of the Australian and US armed forces, including a multitude of military exercises and vastly expanded basing access of American air, land and sea assets and personnel in Australia. The statement also promoted the deepening military collaboration with other regional powers such as Japan, and emphasised the need for expanded influence throughout the Indo-Pacific.

Since coming to office in May last year, the Labor government has carried out a continuous campaign in the region, pressuring its leaders to line up behind the confrontation with China and warning them of consequences if they do not.

Albaneses visit represents a deepening of this program. It is of particular significance that it is a Labor government that is completing Australias transformation into a frontline state for US-led war against China. Albanese, moreover, and other senior leaders in his administration, such as Foreign Minister Penny Wong, are from Labors so-called left faction.

That only underscores the fact that in the fight against war, including the unfolding genocide in Gaza, workers are confronted with the necessity for a struggle against the entire political establishment. Amid a breakdown of global capitalism, all of the official parties, whether nominally of the left or right are hurtling humanity towards catastrophic wars and are imposing an associated onslaught on fundamental democratic rights.
Postal workers at Prenton delivery office in north-west England have voted to strike, demanding four colleagues sacked by Royal Mail for taking their contractually entitled tea break are reinstated.

Members of the Communication Workers Union (CWU) in the suburb of Birkenhead on the Wirral voted by a majority of 95.8 percent on a 70.6 percent turnout in a result announced on October 24.

Prenton Delivery Office entrance

A total of 11 delivery workers were originally suspended by Royal Mail in July for taking their tea breaks at local pubs. They were singled out by management after following what had been an accepted practice with delivery workers on long walks with few amenities to take breaks or access toilets. None had been drinking alcohol, as confirmed by other customers.

According to the CWU, Royal Mail confirmed earlier this month that four of the delivery workers would be dismissed, including one with a 44-year unblemished history.

A CWU press release announcing the strike vote is clearly framed at preventing any strike from taking place, emphasising its partnership with management. It stated, The union is demanding that management get back around the negotiating table to work out a solution where all workers will be reinstated.

A CWU spokesperson said: This situation wont be solved by management doubling down on poorly-handled decisions, but with a decent compromise that sees these workers reinstated and the workforce treated with the respect they deserve.

It insultingly describes the vote as an action reflecting an already demoralised workforce of around 30 employees - as well as in the wider community, which has been subject to persistent postal delays due to under-recruitment and management cuts.

As the coverage of the WSWS has shown, the fight of Prenton postal workers against victimisation has won support among the 15,000 people served by the delivery office.

Every postal worker knows the culture of bullying and mismanagement in the workplace referred to at Prenton is rife across Royal Mail Group (RMG). The chief mechanism for imposing this regime and preventing any fight against it is the CWU bureaucracy led by Dave Ward and Andy Furey.

The management offensive at Prenton delivery office is a product of the rotten deal drawn up between the CWU and Royal Mail in July to end the year-long fight by more than 100,000 postal workers. As with other Rule 13 mandates for local strikes, most recently at Hayes in London and Stranraer in Scotland, the Preston vote will be sat on. The votes of the membership only count when bludgeoning through a sellout, not when fighting against the tearing up of terms ushered in by the CWU-Royal Mail Business Recovery, Transformation and Growth Agreement (BRTG).

The victimisations at Prenton are a test case for imposing the new regime of Amazon style practices agreed by the CWU with Royal Mail management in the BRTG Agreement. The data from the hand-held tracker system used by delivery workers, Postal Digital Assistants or PDAs, was used by management to identify delivery workers taking their breaks at The Swan and Carnarvon Castle public houses to take disciplinary action.

A cornerstone of the BRTG Agreement is the use of the PDAs to increase management surveillance and enforce productivity increases through the My Performance APP/Tile added to the tracker, which the CWU agreed to trial through the Joint Working Party. Appendix 5, on Data Use and Performance Management, describes in Point 3 the Pilot approach  New PDA APP/Tile as having the objective of raising awareness of individual contribution and enabling higher levels of customer service and business performance.

With further jobs losses in addition to the 10,000 already pushed through during the dispute, and with the most sweeping revisions in the history of the company hiking up workloads, this increased surveillance was always intended as a mechanism for disciplining workers.

Royal Mail confirmed on October 3 the new APP/Tile will now be extended to 332 units and 25,600 delivery workers in parts of England and Scotland. In conjunction with the Big Brother approach to monitoring individual performance, delivery workers will now be placed in Gold, Silver, Bronze and Purple categories, with the stated aim rolling this out across RMG.

This institutionalises management intimidation, as shown by the criteria for placing a delivery worker in the lowest Purple category, which includes:

Regularly displays a negative or defeatist attitude at work which affects others.

Requires multiple prompts or reminders before taking action on wellbeing and the impact on others.

The CWU did not issue a statement on this until October 13, just days before it was rolled out. It was a hand ringing exercise claiming it was not happening with CWUs agreement as it did not include the BRT&G safeguards.

The most popular comments on the CWU Facebook page show that postal workers are not buying into this fraud. They include: Just like to thank The Communication Workers Union for getting us the same conditions as Amazon, some people thought it couldnt be done! So well done CWU, pass on my thanks to Dave Ward when you eventually find him! and Well you put us in this position by encouraging people to vote yes [to the BTRG deal].

The opposition to institutionalised management intimidation and entrenchment of Amazon style practices must be joined with the fight for the unconditional reinstatement of some 400 CWU reps and members suspended and sacked during the year long dispute.

The warnings made the Postal Workers Rank-and-File Committee (PWRFC) that the Falconer Review into these suspensions and sackings is to prevent a collective fight for justice for all those victimised by Royal Mail have been vindicated.

Three months after the end of the dispute the CWU has agreed to extending a news embargo for weeks on even reporting the decision on the first 26 cases, supposedly to allow time for further discussions between all parties on reaching a Collective Agreement to resolve all cases. The CWU has submitted only 200 cases.

The CWU has placed Tony Blairs Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice Lord Falconer in sole charge of reviewing the biggest frame-up of workers in an industrial dispute in two generations. Blairs former flatmate had previously advised the National Coal Board on outlawing flying pickets and how to recognise the scab Union of Democratic Mineworkers during the 1984-5 miners strike.

The PWRFCs call for an independent fight for the full reinstatement of victimised reps and workers explained the real purpose of the Falconer Review was 1) to sweep the explosive issue of workplace victimisations under the carpet, blocking any industrial and political fight for reinstatement; and 2) enabling Royal Mail and the CWU to implement their national agreement against the workforce.

The stitch-up of the Falconer review has paved the way for what postal workers describe as a second wave of victimisations.

The mandate for strike action at Prenton should become the spearhead of a mobilisation of postal workers nationally to overturn the CWUs rotten agreement with Royal Mail and remove its co-authors Ward and Furey from office. This must be the first step in dismantling the union apparatus, with power placed in the hands of the rank and file.

Postal workers must draw up independent demands, refusing to sacrifice their terms and rights for the brutal restructuring to gauge out more profits for the major shareholders and investors. Rather than dues of the membership being siphoned off to the six figure salaries of the bureaucrats, they must be used to fund a programme of strike action in which the rank-and-file determine the strategy to fight.

Do you have information about conditions at your workplace? Share your views by submitting the form below. Submissions will be published anonymously.
In the face of threats from university administration officials, fascists, Zionists and future employers, thousands of students at over 100 universities across the United States and Canada protested Wednesday against the ongoing US-backed Israeli genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza. Students at the protests demanded their universities divest from any weapons manufacturers, such as Raytheon, Lockheed Martin and Boeing providing military arms to Israel.

Students protesting the Gaza genocide at New York University, October 25, 2023.

The protests are part of an international movement of workers and students that opposes the imperialist-backed slaughter. Some 7,000 Palestinians have been killed in over two weeks of relentless terror bombing by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), backed by the two US aircraft carrier strike groups. Over 2,300 children have been killed since October 7, according to the Ministry of Health in Gaza, with another 870 children feared trapped under the rubble from Israeli bombardment.



The Biden administrations unwavering political and military support for the mass slaughter has provoked mass outrage among workers and youth around the world. Nearly daily protests calling for an end to the bombing of Gaza and for a ceasefire have been held in many countries for over two weeks.



Despite the massive numbers and peaceful character of the protests, they have hardly been reported on by the Western capitalist press. If major newspapers or television networks deign to report on them, they are inevitably falsely characterized as antisemitic or provoking tension within the community.



At Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, hundreds of students walked out of class on Tuesday and held a sit-in at the Hall building. Video taken by a journalism student at the university showed hundreds of students clapping for Palestine.

At the University of Illinois-Chicago, hundreds of students participated in the walkout. Several students who walked out later came to the public meeting Stop Israels Genocide against Gaza! featuring Joseph Kishore, National Secretary of the Socialist Equality Party in the United States.

Hundreds of students at Howard University, which was recently awarded a $90 million contract by the Pentagon to conduct military research, protested on Tuesday. Students denounced the universitys relationship with weapons contractors and called for a Free Palestine.

Roughly 1,000 students protested at the University of California, Berkeley on Tuesday. Students carried homemade signs denouncing US support for ethnic cleansing and to end the occupation.

At the University of Michigan, hundreds of students from 25 different student organizations participated in a protest demanding the university divest from Israel and all military contractors.

At antiwar protests held at the City University of New York (CUNY) and New York University (NYU) on Tuesday, hundreds of students peacefully demonstrated against the war. Reporters for the World Socialist Web Site distributed hundreds of leaflets and interviewed several students. In response to the rally, cab and bus drivers honked their horns loudly in support as they passed by.



Anna, a student at The New School who attended the NYU rally, said, I am against the US- and Israeli-backed genocide. ... Our country has been run by the bourgeoisie, has been run by the top 1 percent, and they are ... lobbying for Israel to commit genocide against the Palestinians, and they use the excuse, that its antisemitic when you dont support Israel. But thats just completely false.



We need to look past the media and see the truth, and the truth is human rights are being violated.



Our tax money, billions of dollars Joe Biden is giving Israel is totally connected, we are being exploited. The US is backing Ukraine, and the US is backing Israel.  our energy is being used to fuel a genocide and that needs to stop. We cant be complicit in this any longer.

Anna

The youth are a huge part of the working class, she added. The youth need to rise up against these old-fashioned policies, these neo-liberal policies, that keep capitalism in the grips so that we dont have a voice. We need to organize together, we need to come together and overthrow the bourgeoisie.



Spencer, who also attended the NYU rally, said, I dont think theres any way of spinning genocide to make it look like a good thing.



People are choosing to either support a genocide by approving the continued funding of Israel or standing on the side of humanity which is against this funding, he added.



Isabel said she attended the rally because Ive wanted to do something [about the treatment of the Palestinians] for a while now, but I never really knew what to do. I thought coming here today would be a really good opportunity [to show my support]. Im not completely sure of where the NYU administration stands as far as support for the funding of Israel; but if they are, I want them to know that we dont stand for that, and that young people in general dont stand for oppression of any sort.



She explained, I grew up Jewish, but Israel was never part of my identity. [Support for the Palestinians] is something close to my heart. [It is upsetting to] see the conflict between students over Israel and Palestine.



Isabel and another friend who attended the rally both agreed that the Biden administrations support for the slaughter was bullsh** and that the administration was guilty of committing genocide.

Ella, a student at CUNY studying international studies and human rights, agreed, What is going on in Gaza is a violation of human rights. ... Our US tax dollars are funding a genocide.

Ella, a CUNY student, and Joey, at a rally in Manhattan on October 25, 2023

Joey said he attended the rally because it needs to be brought to peoples attention whats going on. Both Joey and Ella condemned the Biden administrations support for the IDF and agreed with the Palestinian trade unions call for a general strike to stop weapons shipments to Israel.


In an indication of the type of far-right elements that are being whipped up to support the US-backed genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza, on Friday, the Israeli governments Twitter/X account retweeted a video of a fascistic rant by Columbia Business School Assistant Professor Shai Davidai, which called for the eradication of pro-Palestinian student organizations at US universitieswhich he slandered as pro-terrorincluding at Columbia, New York University (NYU), Harvard, University of California Berkeley (UC Berkeley), Stanford and Northwestern.



Davidai presented his tirade at a pro-Israel vigil held on the Columbia University campus in support of Jewish victims of kidnappings in Gaza. The event was held in opposition to the massively popular demonstrations occurring in the past two weeks in solidarity with Palestinian people.



While the video of the vigil showed very low turnout, with roughly 30 individuals present, Davidais Twitter/X post garnered nearly 5 million views, with 21,000 reposts and 56,000 likes. Those who have supported the video, in addition to the Israeli government, have largely consisted of right-wing politicians and social media pundits, including Trump 2024 campaign supporters and 2020 election deniers, extreme nationalists of many shades, religious fanatics and outright fascists.

Denouncing pro-Palestinian organizations at Columbia as pro-terror, Davidai attacked university presidents for being cowards and supposedly not being willing to take a stand. Davidai then called on the president of Columbia, Minouche Shafik, to eradicate pro-Palestinian student organizations.

The Israeli Twitter/X account which retweeted Davidais video is managed by the Digital Diplomacy department of the countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The ministry is a key part of the government and works closely with the Israel Defense Forces as they carry out military operations, including the genocidal assault on Gaza which began more than two weeks ago.

There is little question that Davidais repugant rant is being promoted with the support of the Israeli and American ruling classes. Their aim is to threaten and intimidate the widespread opposition to the genocide and escalating war crimes by Israel, which have already cost at least 6,500 lives, roughly half of them children.

In the context of growing protests internationally, the Israeli government and its US backers are fearful of the fact that the overwhelming majority of students and workers support Palestine. This is why they claim that US academic institutions are not targeting speech which undermines its policy efforts aggressively enough. This is despite the fact that university administrations have been complicit in an ongoing assault on the democratic rights of students and faculty who are voicing opposition to the unfolding genocide.

At Harvard University, a vicious campaign of slander and intimidation has taken place against students who have spoken out against Israel. Following the publishing of a pro-Palestinian statement signed by nearly three dozen students, a billboard truck displaying photographs of the statements signatories paraded around the campus.

Billionaire Bill Ackman, claiming to speak for a number of CEOs, called in a Tweet for the public release of the names of those who signed the Harvard statement, to ensure that none of these students would ever be inadvertently hired for employment at companies within the domain of these executives. An investigation by the Guardian later revealed that the trucks were funded by a network of far-right and fascistic American political organizations.

A student at UC Berkeley reported to the WSWS that students and faculty have been fearful of campus censorship, repression and retaliation for speaking out against Israels siege of Gaza. A journalism student at a community college in California told the WSWS that Muslim and Arab students at their school had reported that the college administration had specifically asked them not to voice their opinions to protect themselves from being blacklisted.

At NYU, Student Bar Association (SBA) President Ryna Workman was denounced by the university administration for a pro-Palestinian statement and their prospective employer rescinded a job offer. The SBA board then voted to initiate No Confidence proceedings to remove Ryna as SBA president, and eight SBA members resigned, citing online threats to their safety following these events. Workman has publicly referred to a barrage of online harassment, doxxing of personal information and death threats following this attack by the administration.

Last week, the NYU administration also backed a social media campaign that was launched against two NYU students who tore down posters displaying Israeli hostages on campus. The students were doxxed and a deluge of right-wing propaganda was unleashed against them. The response by NYU was to announce that they would consider taking disciplinary action against the students.

NYU students also have reported to WSWS reporters that Palestinian students and their supporters have had their information posted online by right-wing groups for as little reason as attending meetings of pro-Palestinian student organizations.

These attempts to intimidate opposition make the growing protests all the more significant. Significantly, Workman published a powerful statement again denouncing the genocide days after the attacks against them began. Ninety-four faculty members at NYU signed a statement supporting the formation of an NYU chapter of Faculty for Justice in Palestine, in order to oppose the war on Gaza, the continuing occupation and brutalization of the Palestinians subject to Israeli control, and the threats to our students and colleagues who want to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people.

Internationally, protests in opposition to Israeli war crimes have expanded despite similar efforts to slander and suppress them. On Saturday, the largest demonstration in London since those against the outbreak of the US invasion of Iraq in 2003 drew roughly 300,000 attendees. Protests were also held at many US campuses, including NYU, Columbia and Harvard, in a reflection of the broader opposition within the working class and among students and youth to the crimes of the state of Israel and the role of US imperialism in the genocide.

A pro-Palestinian rally at NYU on October 25, 2023

On Saturday, roughly 10,000 protesters gathered in a predominantly Palestinian neighborhood of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. At NYU on Friday, a spontaneous demonstration broke out at NYUs Bobst Library in support of Palestinian students and other students who have been the victims of the campaign of harassment and intimidation by pro-Israeli elements on campus. Thousands of students across New York City and the US also participated in a national walk out on Wednesday.

Ella, a CUNY student, and Joey, at a rally in Manhattan on October 25, 2023

Speaking in support of the the popular opposition expressed by artists to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, a professor at Harvard University told the WSWS, Ive been grateful for the bravery of many artists making statements in opposition to the genocidal attacks against Palestinians. Scientists have also been making statements and some have come under attack as a result.

On October 13, the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) in the United States published a statement titled No to the criminalization of anti-war views on US campuses! For a mass movement by workers and youth against the onslaught on Gaza! Explaining the motivation behind the attacks on the democratic rights of students and academics who voice opposition to the genocide, it said,

The ruling class in the US and Europe, as in Israel, confronts growing domestic opposition and militancy within the working class and youth. In the US, the ruling class has been rattled by the emergence of the largest strike wave in decades, involving workers across the auto, healthcare, logistics and education industries. Workers and students must be warned: The logic of the current campaign against anti-war views on university campuses means that the ruling class will set into motion its entire state apparatus, with the cooperation of the major corporations, universities and the media, to crack down on any expression of opposition to the war policies and propaganda of the ruling class. This campaign is meant to set a precedent to eliminate remaining democratic rights and intimidate and criminalize opposition by workers and youth to war and all other policies of the ruling class. Workers and youth will not take these assaults lying down. Despite the concerted campaign to criminalize opposition to the war, mass demonstrations continue to break out in the US and worldwide. But these demonstrations need to be given a conscious political program and perspective upon which to fight.

On Thursday, October 26, the IYSSE in New York and at NYU are holding a public meeting at 7 p.m. at the Houston Street Center (273 Bowery) to oppose the genocide in Gaza. We urge all our readers to attend and share the meeting info as widely as possible. Contact the IYSSE to get involved today in the fight against war!
MUNICH, October 26, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hithium, the stationary battery producer, announced the agreement with Munich Re to provide warranty reinsurance for its energy storage systems (ESS). The reinsurer will cover both product and performance warranties. The agreement will thus reduce ESS project owners risk as well as Hithiums, providing system owners with coverage even in case of a manufacturer insolvency while also shielding Hithium from excessive warranty costs and protecting the companys balance sheet.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026035229/en/

(Photo: Business Wire)

The warranties against performance degradation and the risk of defects, with coverage of up to 15 years, will be among the longest-term warranty insurances available in the energy storage industry. The project coverage also enables Hithium to provide a flexible insurance structure. Munich Res backing for larger-scale projects is reflected in the "Warranty Partner Label Agreement" it has granted Hithium.

As one of the global leaders in reinsurance, Munich Re enables emerging business models like stationary energy storage by fostering trust, financial security, and technical expertise. Prior to undertaking a new warranty insurance obligation, the company completes a technical due diligence process to assure product and manufacturer viability.

ESS project developers are currently positioned to benefit from a fast-growing market for energy storage, due to the central role the systems play in the transition to renewable energies by making them reliably available around the clock. It is crucial for developers and their investors to be able to establish the bankability and security of projects. As energy storage technology becomes more complex and large-scale systems integrate multiple high-tech components, moreover, the need for warranty insurance has gained importance.

Story continues

Hithium Senior Director Product & Marketing Winfried Wahl commented: "Munich Re sets the global standard for due diligence and financial security in energy storage. We are very proud to take this step and be able to offer our clients and investors this level of warranty."

Hithium is on track to have 70 GWh of production capacity by the end of 2023, manufacturing cells, battery modules, cabinets and container systems, with 11 GWh delivered since the company was founded in 2019. Hithium is already cooperating with TUV Rheinlands China subsidiary on the testing and certification of large-scale energy storage systems.

About HiTHIUM

Founded in 2019, HiTHIUM is a leading manufacturer of top-quality stationary energy storage products for utility-scale as well as commercial and industrial applications. With four distinct R&D centers and multiple "intelligent" production facilities, HiTHIUMs innovations include groundbreaking safety improvements to its lithium-ion batteries as well as increases in lifecycle. With many decades of cumulative experience in the field among its founders and senior executives, HiTHIUM leverages its specialization in BESS to deliver partners and customers unique advances in energy storage. The company is based in Xiamen, China, with further locations for production, research, or sales in Shenzhen, Munich, Dubai, and California. HiTHIUM has shipped 11 GWh of battery capacity, 5 GWh in 2022 alone, and is expanding its production capacity to 70 GWh by the end of 2023.

About Munich Re

Munich Re is one of the worlds leading providers of reinsurance, primary insurance and insurance-related risk solutions. The Group consists of the reinsurance and ERGO business segments, as well as the asset manager MEAG. Munich Re is globally active and operates in all lines of the insurance business. Since it was founded in 1880, Munich Re has been known for its unrivalled risk-related expertise and its sound financial position. It offers customers financial protection when faced with exceptional levels of damage  from the 1906 San Francisco earthquake to Hurricane Ian in 2022. Munich Re possesses outstanding innovative strength, which enables it to also provide coverage for extraordinary risks such as rocket launches, renewable energies or cyber risks. The company is playing a key role in driving forward the digital transformation of the insurance industry, and in doing so has further expanded its ability to assess risks and the range of services that it offers. Its tailor-made solutions and close proximity to its customers make Munich Re one of the worlds most sought-after risk partners for businesses, institutions, and private individual.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026035229/en/

Contacts

carol.wu@hithium.com
The following lecture was given by World Socialist Web Site International Editorial Board Chairman David North at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor on Tuesday, October 24.

Tonights lecture is being held under the title Leon Trotsky and the Struggle for Socialism in the 21st Century. It is part of a series of events within the United States and internationally commemorating the 100th anniversary of the October 1923 founding of the Left Opposition in the Soviet Union under the leadership of Leon Trotsky. This marked the beginning of the most consequential political struggle of the 20th century, that is, the struggle led by Leon Trotsky against the bureaucratic degeneration of the Communist Party and the Soviet state under the Stalinist regime, and the betrayal of the international program and principles upon which the 1917 October Revolution was based.

When I say it is the most consequential struggle, let me put it this way. If the outcome of that fight had been different, had it ended with the victory of the Trotskyist faction and the defeat of Stalinism, the 20th century would have been the century in which the victory of the world socialist revolution had been secured. In a lecture that I gave in the late 1990s, I answered the claim that there was no alternative to Stalinism, that the Russian Revolution was doomed from the start. That was the appraisal made by Eric Hobsbawm, a noted British historian who had spent 60 years in the British Communist Party. He had a vested political and intellectual interest in denying the possibility of an alternative to Stalinism. It was a way of justifying his own politics.

But that is not the case. The issues that were fought out in the 1920s and the 1930s had a profound impact on the course of the last century, and, therefore, the conditions under which we live today. The defeat of Trotsky in the Soviet Union, the victory of Stalinism, had a catastrophic effect on the outcome of the class struggle in Germany. The critique that Trotsky made of the policies pursued by the Stalinist party in Germanyhis warnings of the danger of fascism, his criticisms of the ultra-leftist policies of the Communist Partywas proven correct. Hitler could have been stopped. Trotsky advocated a united front of the Social Democratic and Communist parties, the two mass parties of the German working class. He wrote that nothing was more critical than the defeat of Hitler, and warned that the defeat of the working class and the coming to power of Hitler would be a global catastrophe of unimaginable dimensions. And Trotsky warned as well that one of those catastrophes would be the annihilation of European Jewry.

Those warnings were ignored. Hitler came to power, with horrifying consequences. This set into motion a train of events that remain operative in the political situation we are experiencing today. Without the victory of Hitler, without the victory of fascism, there would never have been a mass Zionist movement, there would never have been a mass migration of Jews to Palestine. And one of the major factors in the escalating crisis that we are now witnessing simply would not exist.

The victory of the German working classthe coming to power of the working class in the most advanced industrialized country in Europewould have certainly been a major milestone in the advance of socialism throughout the world.

The initial plan for this lecture was to review the historical events and issues that led to the founding of the Left Opposition, and to explain why the assimilation of the lessons of this history is critical for an understanding of the present world situation and for the development of a revolutionary socialist strategy in the contemporary world.

But, as I think you all can appreciate, the unfolding events require that the structure of tonights presentation be somewhat changed. I will begin with a discussion of the situation and proceed from there to demonstrate its connection to the critical issues of Marxist theory, political perspective and socialist program that were at the heart of the struggle waged by the Left Opposition against Stalinism.

David North speaking at the University of Michigan on October 24, 2023.

We are now witnessing the greatest international crisis since the end of World War II. Two wars are raging: in Ukraine and Gaza. It is, in fact, more correct to say that these are two battlefronts in a rapidly escalating Third World War, whose scale and ferocity, unless stopped by a mass anti-war movement of the international working class, will surpass that of World War I (1914-1918) and World War II (1939-1945). Even as we meet, the United States is assembling a massive military strike force in the Mediterranean, spearheaded by two aircraft carriers. The Biden administration is threatening to intervene if the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah intensifies. This could lead to war between the United States and Iran.

President Biden, in the speech that he delivered last week upon his return from Israel, explicitly connected the wars in Ukraine and Gaza. Demanding an additional $105 billion in military spendingon top of the $1 trillion already allocated for 2023he insisted that both wars are critical to the national security of the United States, by which he means the global geopolitical interests of American imperialism.

Using its Ukrainian proxies, the United States and its NATO allies instigated and are waging an imperialist war against Russia whose aim is regime change, the smashing up of the country, the redivision of its fragments among the NATO powers, under the supervision of the United States, and the plundering of its vast resources.

As the looming confrontation with Iran makes clear, the Israeli onslaught against the imprisoned population of Gaza is an extension of the global war. The Israeli attack on Gaza, which has assumed genocidal dimensions, is aimed at the annihilation of Palestinian resistance to the Zionist regime. As the Israeli government and military employ the language and methods of extermination, it is entirely appropriate to describe this war as the Zionist regimes Final Solution of the Palestinian question.

This war of annihilation is supported by all the major imperialist governments. Amid the ongoing slaughter of the Gazan people, the imperialist leaders declare their solidarity with Israel. In what has become an obligatory political ritual, President Biden, British Prime Minister Sunak and German Chancellor Scholz have made their pilgrimage to Israel. French President Macron arrived there earlier today.

These leaders profess their profound sympathy for the Jewish people and invoke the Nazi Holocaust as justification for their defense of Israels assault on Gaza. The scale of deceit and hypocrisy in such declarations is beyond measurement. They are all the political successors of governments that either organized, collaborated in, or ignored the persecution and mass murder of Jews between 1939 and 1945. The extermination of the Jews by the German ruling class, during the years that it entrusted power and the defense of its economic interests to Adolf Hitler, marked a horrifying milestone in the putrefaction of capitalist society: the utilization of modern technology and industrial organization for the process of collecting, transporting and killing millions of human beings. The French ruling class collaborated with the Nazi regime in this process. Approximately 25 percent of the Jewish citizens of France were turned over to the Nazis for extermination.

Hungarian Jews arriving at the Auschwitz extermination camp [Photo: Anonymous Auschwitz photographer]

Great Britain was not occupied by the Nazis, and its relatively small Jewish population was spared the horrors of extermination. But the antisemitism that was pervasive in the British ruling class was manifested in its cruel treatment of Jewish refugees from Nazi occupied Europe.

Over 20,000 German Jews who had escaped to Britain were classified as enemy aliens, rounded up, and placed in internment camps located on the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea. One of these interment sites, known as Hutchinson Camp, incarcerated 1,200 refugees, among them leading artists, musicians and intellectuals. A detailed account of the British policy of mass internment of Jewish refugees from Nazism is provided in a book titled The Island of Extraordinary Captives, by journalist Simon Parkin. The British government has never acknowledged, let alone apologized for, its mistreatment of Jewish refugees.

As for the United States, the indifference of the Roosevelt administration to the fate of the Jews is an irrefutably established historical fact. Hundreds of thousands of European Jews who might have been saved perished in Nazi gas chambers because they were denied entry into the United States. In 1939, the United States refused to allow 900 Jewish refugees to disembark from the MS St. Louis. They were forced to return to Europe. Hundreds of these refugees were subsequently murdered by the Nazis. Even after it became well known that Nazi Germany was gassing to death thousands of Jews every day, military measures that might have been taken to disrupt the transport of Jews to extermination camps, such as the bombing of railway tracks leading to Auschwitz, were rejected out of hand.

Was it belated remorse over its failure to save Jews from Hitlerite genocide that led the United States to champion the creation of Israel? Biden boasted last week that the United States, under the administration of President Harry Truman, was the first country to recognize the state of Israel upon its creation in 1948. But the decision of Truman was not motivated by any personal sympathy for the Jewish people.

Notwithstanding his well-documented antisemitic bigotry, Trumans policy was determined by what he considered to be in the best interests of American imperialism: in the first instance, to displace Britain as the principal imperialist power in the Middle East, and, eventually, to use Israel as Washingtons main regional attack dog. That is the role it has played for almost all of its 75-year history. As Biden reiterated with remarkable candor in his speech before the Israeli parliament: I have long said: if Israel didnt exist, we would have to invent it. Israels services as a client state of American imperialism are more critical than ever to US-NATO imperialism as it prepares for military operations against Iran.

One cannot fail to note that the unquestioning support for Israel proceeds alongside the open alliance of the imperialist powers with the regime in Ukraine, whose principal national hero, Stepan Bandera, was a vicious fascist and antisemite, the leader of the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN), which collaborated with the Nazis in the extermination of the Jews of Ukraine.

Giorgia Meloni, the fascist prime minister of Italy, who traces her political lineage to Benito Mussolini, has also traveled to Israel, declaring her solidarity with the Zionist regime as she stood alongside Netanyahu.

Last month, all members of the Canadian parliament, as well as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the German ambassador, rose to their feet to applaud the Ukrainian fascist Yaroslav Hunka, who served in the Waffen SS as an ally of the Nazis in the war against the Soviet Union.

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 flagrant collaboration of the imperialist powers with Ukrainian fascists, which, particularly in Germany, has involved a persistent effort to relativize and justify the crimes of the Nazi regime, has not stopped the United States, its NATO allies and, of course, the Zionist regime, from hurling the charge of antisemitism against all those who expose, denounce or even question Israels brutal violation of Palestinian democratic rights.

Throughout his recent world tour, the legendary musician Roger Waters has been under relentless attack and accused of antisemitism because he has had the courage to defend the Palestinian people. And everyone who knows the work of Roger Waters knows very well that he is one of the most significant artists at the forefront of the fight for human rights, and that his opposition to the policies of the Israeli regime has absolutely nothing to do with antisemitism.

From the time it emerged in the late 19th century as a powerful reactionary movement, initially in Vienna under Mayor Karl Lueger, antisemitism was understood to be a weapon of political and ideological struggle against the emerging working class and socialist movement. The connection between the antisemites hatred of Jews and his hatred of socialism and the labor movement was widely recognized.

This insidious connection found its most malignant expression in the worldview and politics of Adolf Hitler. Based on a careful reading of Hitlers Mein Kampf, the journalist Konrad Heiden, one of Hitlers earliest biographers, explained that the source of the Nazi leaders violent antisemitism was his identification of the Jews with the working class and socialism. Heiden wrote:

The great light dawned on him; suddenly the Jewish question became clear  the labor movement did not repel him because it was led by Jews; the Jews repelled him because they led the labor movement.  But one thing is certain: it was not Rothschild, the capitalist, but Karl Marx, the Socialist, who kindled Adolf Hitlers anti-Semitism.

And what was it about the labor movement that aroused Hitlers hatred? He despised above all else appeals for the equality of all people. As Heiden wrote:

One of Hitlers most characteristic reproaches to the labor movement is that in Austria it had fought for equal rights for allto the detriment of the master race chosen by God.

But now, in the interests of imperialism, antisemitism has acquired an entirely new meaning. It is used as a swear word to denounce and discredit those who fight for democratic rights, human equality and, of course, socialism.

There is another element of the propaganda campaign that is now playing a central role in legitimizing Israels genocidal war against the Palestinians. The breakout of Gaza on October 7, which was led by Hamas and resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,500 Israelis, is presented as nothing other than an act of monstrous criminality, the manifestation of what Biden has described on several occasions as pure unadulterated evil.

The death of so many innocent people is a tragic event. But the tragedy is rooted in objective historical events and political conditions that made such an event inevitable. As always, the ruling classes oppose all references to the causes of the uprising. Their own massacres and the entire bloody system of oppression over which they preside so ruthlessly must go unmentioned.

Why should anyone be surprised that decades of oppression by the Zionist regime led to an explosive eruption of anger? It has happened in the past, and, as long as human beings are oppressed and brutalized, it will happen in the future. Those who suffer oppression cannot be expected during a desperate rebellion, when their own lives hang precariously in the balance, to treat their tormentors with tender-hearted courtesy. Such rebellions are often marked by acts of cruel and bloody vengeance.

Many examples come to mind: the Sepoy mutiny in India, the uprising of the Dakota Indians against the settlers, the rebellion of Boxers in China, of the Hereros in Southwest Africa, and, in more recent times, the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya. In all these cases, the insurgents were denounced as heartless murderers and demons, and subjected to brutal retribution. Decades, if not a century or more, had to pass before they were belatedly honored as freedom fighters.

"Boxers" captured by the U.S. 6th Cavalry near Tianjin in 1901. Historians believe they were merely bystanders. [Photo by ralph repo / CC BY 2.0

In explaining the causes of the American Civil War, which resulted in over 700,000 deaths, Lincoln spoke of the tragedy as the consequence of 250 years of slavery, and invoked the words of Matthew: Woe unto the world because of offenses, for it must needs be that offenses come, but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh. In the case of the Palestinians and the people of Gaza, the offense has come from the Zionist state and its imperialist patrons.

The long history of Zionist massacres of Palestinians, without which the State of Israel could not have been founded, is excluded from the condemnation of Hamas and the Palestinians. Even events as recent as the gunning down by Israeli soldiers of over 200 Gazans in 2018 as they demonstrated peacefully on their side of the border is kept out of the media narrative.

Just today, John Kirby, the Biden administration spokesman, specifically said that the United States opposes a ceasefire. He acknowledged that many civilians will die, but said thats the way it is. In so doing, he undermined the whole basis of his condemnation of Hamas. He was simply saying, Yes, civilians die in a military action, but its all right if those civilians are killed by Israelis. It is only an example of pure unadulterated evil if civilians die in the midst of a military action undertaken by the Palestinians.

We have been asked why we have not condemned Hamas for the violence of October 7. The answer is that we will not participate in, or lend any legitimacy to the reactionary cynicism and hypocrisy that condemns resistance to oppression, or which draws an equal sign between the episodic violence of the oppressed and the far greater, relentless and systematic violence of the oppressor.

The hypocrisy is compounded by the fact that the founders of the state of Israel included terrorists who had no compunctions about organizing bombings and carrying out murders in pursuit of their political ends.

In the film Exodus, which was made in 1960 as a glorification of the establishment of the state of Israel, one of the major figures, and in a peculiar way, one of the most honest, is a leader of a terrorist group of Zionists. He explains and justifies, very bluntly, the use of terror. That man is presented in the film as a perhaps misguided, but still heroic figure. That figure was the recreation of a leader of the notorious Zionist terrorist organization known as Lehi, also known as the Stern Gang, whose founder, Avraham Stern, wrote:

Force always forged the destiny of nations  The destiny of the land of Israel had always been determined by the sword, not diplomacy. The only justice in the world is force and the dearest asset in the world is freedom. The right to life is granted only to the strong, and power, if not given legally, should be taken illegally.

The operational leader of the Stern Gang was Yitzhak Shamir, who in 1948 ordered the assassination of Count Folke Bernadotte, the United Nations mediator who had been assigned to negotiate a settlement of the war that followed the declaration of the Israeli state. What punishment did Shamir receive for the killing of the U.N. mediator? In the years that followed Israeli independence, he occupied a high level position in the states secret police, the Mossad. In 1983, Shamir became Israels prime minister. His first term ended in 1984. But he regained the office in 1986 and remained prime minister until 1992. He died in 2011 at the age of 96, and all the leaders of the Israeli state paid fulsome tribute to the ruthless terrorist.

Our criticisms of Hamas are of a political, not hypocritically moralistic character. It is a bourgeois national movement, and the methods it resorts to, including a military operation such as that undertaken on October 7, cannot result in the defeat of the Zionist regime and the liberation of the Palestinian people. Moreover, to the extent that Hamas depends upon the patronage of one or another bourgeois regime in the Middle East, its struggle against the Zionist state will always be subordinated to the interests of the capitalist ruling elites of the region, and, therefore, to their reactionary maneuverings with the Israeli regime and world imperialism.

In the final analysis, the liberation of the Palestinian people can be achieved only through a unified struggle of the working class, Arab and Jewish, against the Zionist regime as well as the treacherous Arab and Iranian capitalist regimes, and their replacement with a union of socialist republics throughout the Middle East, and, indeed, the entire world.

Thousands protest in Sanaa, Yemen, October 20, 2023. [Photo: QudsNewsNetwork]

This is a gigantic task. But it is the only perspective that is based on a correct appraisal of the present stage of world history, the contradictions and crisis of world capitalism and the dynamic of the international class struggle. The wars in Gaza and in Ukraine are tragic demonstrations of the catastrophic role and consequences of national programs in an historical epoch whose essential and defining characteristics are the primacy of world economy, the globally integrated character of the productive forces of capitalism, and, therefore, the necessity to base the struggle of the working class on an international strategy.

This perspective is no less valid for the Israeli working class. Given the present situation, when the military power of the Zionist state is being utilized to crush Palestinian resistance, attention is focused, and rightly so, on the crimes of the Israeli regime.

But it is a political mistake to overlook the fact that the establishment of the Zionist state was not only a tragedy for the Palestinians; it was, and is, a tragedy for the Jewish people as well. Zionism never was, and is not today, a solution to the historic oppression and persecution of the Jewish people. From its origins, the Zionist project was based on a reactionary ideology and program. It advanced a false analysis of the source of antisemitismwhich it endowed with a permanent and supra-historical characterand, therefore, never soughtand in fact opposedthe overthrow of the economic, political and social relations of capitalism that were and are the source of modern political antisemitism.

Beginning with Theodore Herzl, the founder of modern Zionism, the concept of a Jewish state was directed against the socialist program that was steadily gaining ground among masses of Jewish workers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Opposing the international solidarity of the working class as the path to the liberation of the Jews, Zionism staked its future on an alliance with one or another reactionary power. In an open letter written in 1944, addressed to a conference of the British Labour Party, Trotskyists in Palestine explained:

During its whole history Zionism has always supported the reactionary forces of the world. Dr. Herzl, founder of Zionism, made a deal with the Tsarist Minister Plehve (organizer of the pogrom against the Jews of Kishinev) to the effect that the Zionist Movement be used as a lever against the Jewish socialists, in return for which Plehve would use his influence with the [Turkish] Sultan to obtain a charter for Zionism on Palestine.

Theodor Herzl, the father of modern political Zionism [Photo: Carl Pietzner]

In the first four decades of the 20th century, prior to the founding of the state of Israel, the strategy of the Zionist leaders was centered on an alliance with British imperialism. The 1917 declaration of Foreign Minister Balfour, pledging support for a Jewish homeland in Palestine, was trumpeted by the Zionists as the supreme and irreversible expression of the legitimacy of their project. Of course, the Palestinians were not consulted and had no say in the matter.

This was of no concern to the Zionists, who understood very well that their project was viable only to the extent that the establishment of a non-Arab Jewish state served imperialist interests. This was stated with remarkable clarity by Vladimir Jabotinsky, the leader of the fascist wing of the Zionist movement and mentor of the future Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin. Jabotinsky wrote:

I need not dwell on the well-known truism of Palestine's importance from the viewpoint of British imperial interests; I have only to add that its validity depends on one paramount condition: namely that Palestine should cease being an Arab country. The defects of all England's strongholds in the Mediterranean roots in the fact that (with the only exception of little Malta) they are all of them inhabited by populations whose national magnetic centers lie elsewhere and who are therefore organically and incurably centrifugal. England governs them against their will, and this is a precarious hold under modern conditions.  Should Palestine remain Arab, Palestine would follow the orbit of Arab destiniessecession, Federation of Arab countries, and elimination of all traces of European influence. But a Palestine predominantly Jewish, Palestine as a Jewish State, surrounded on all sides by Arab countries, will in the interests of its own preservation always seek to lean upon some powerful Empire, non-Arab and non-Mohammedan. This is an almost providential basis for a permanent alliance between England and a Jewish (but only Jewish) Palestine.

The Zionist alliance with British imperialism was undermined by the approach and outbreak of World War II, which compelled the government in London to adjust its policies in the Middle East, limiting Jewish immigration into Palestine. Segments of the Zionist movement responded with violent attacks on British facilities, including, by the way, the hanging of two British soldiers and the bombing of the King David Hotel. But the alliance with imperialism continued. Israel, following its establishment in 1948, functioned as an essential ally of British and French imperialisms struggle against the rising tide of Arab nationalism. In 1956, Israel joined Britain and France in an invasion of Egypt aimed at overthrowing the nationalist regime led by Nasser and regaining control of the Suez Canal. However, after the United States compelled Britain and France to end the war and withdraw their forces from Egypt, Israel prioritized its relationship with American imperialism.

The maintenance of a Jewish apartheid state, violently suppressing the Palestinian people while at the same time veering toward fascism within Israel itself, is inextricably connected to its role as a linchpin of imperialism in the Middle East. As a massively armed garrison of US imperialism, it must be employed in all the wars instigated by Washington, with ultimately catastrophic consequences.

In December 1938, Trotsky warned that the spread of fascism and the imminent outbreak of a second imperialist world war posed an existential threat to the Jewish people. It is possible to imagine without difficulty, he wrote, what awaits the Jews at the mere outbreak of the future world war. But even without war the next development of world reaction signifies with certainty the physical extermination of the Jews. In July 1940, one year after World War II had begun, Trotsky declared: The attempt to solve the Jewish question through the migration of Jews to Palestine can now be seen for what it is, a tragic mockery of the Jewish people.  Never was it so clear as it is today that the salvation of the Jewish people is bound up inseparably with the overthrow of the capitalist system.

Leon Trotsky

The Second World War resulted in the extermination of 6 million Jews. But in the aftermath of that catastrophe, the tragic mockery of the Jewish people of which Trotsky warned has been realized in the conversion of an historically oppressed people into oppressors. Of course, a vast segment of the Jewish population throughout the world, including within Israel itself, recoils from such an identity. They dont want to oppress anyone. But political programsthe program of nationismhave consequences that are not determined by merely subjective intentions.

The creation of the Zionist state was the direct outcome of the defeats of the working class in the 1920s and 1930s because of the betrayals of Stalinism and Social Democracy. Without the mass of displaced persons, survivors of Nazi concentration camps, and without the political demoralization and loss of confidence in the perspective of socialism, the Zionist leaders would not have had at their disposal the numbers of people required to conduct a terrorist war against the Palestinian people, expel them from their homes and villages, and create, through essentially criminal methods, a Jewish national state.

But now, after 75 years, Trotskys farsighted appraisal of Zionism as a tragic mockery is being confirmed. The essence of that tragedy was the embrace of the nation state at a point in history when this form of political organization had already become the principal obstacle to progressive social development. In an essay titled Message of the Non-Jewish Jew, Isaac Deutscher, the biographer of Trotsky, described the establishment of Israel as the paradoxical consummation of the Jewish tragedy. It is paradoxical, he explained, because we live in an age when the nation-state is fast becoming an archaismnot only the nation-state of Israel but the nation-states of Russia, the United States, Great Britain, France, Germany, and others. They are all anachronisms. The historical period in which nation-states were a progressive factor in mans social, economic and cultural development had come to an end. As this is true for the old established nation-states, it is doubly true for the new states formed on the basis of the anti-colonial struggles of the post-World War II era.

Deutscher wrote:

Even those young nation-states that have come into being as the result of a necessary and progressive struggle waged by colonial and semi-colonial peoples for emancipationIndia, Burma, Ghana, and otherscannot, in my view, preserve their progressive character for long. They form a necessary stage in the history of some peoples; but it is a stage that those peoples too will have to overcome in order to find wider frameworks for their existence. In our epoch any new nation-state, soon after its constitution, begins to be affected by the general decline of this form of political organization; and this is already showing itself in the short experience of India, Ghana, and Israel. The world has compelled the Jew to embrace the nation-state and to make of it his pride and hope just at a time when there is little or no hope left in it. You cannot blame the Jews for this; you must blame the world. But Jews should at least be aware of the paradox and realize that their intense enthusiasm for national sovereignty is historically belated. They did not benefit from the advantages of the nation-state in those centuries when it was a medium of mankinds advance and a great revolutionary and unifying factor in history. They have taken possession of it only after it had become a factor of disunity and social disintegration.

Karl Marx (1818-1883)

Invoking the example of Spinoza, Marx, Heine, Trotsky and Luxemburg, Deutscher concluded his essay by expressing his hope that

together with other nations, the Jews will ultimately become awareor regain the awarenessof the inadequacy of the nation-state and that they will find their way back to the moral and political heritage that the genius of the Jews who have gone beyond Jewry has left usthe message of universal human emancipation.

It is at this point that we can return to the significance of the centenary of Trotskyism in the context of the present world crisis. The specific issues that gave rise to the formation of the Left Opposition, as they were explained in the Declaration of the 46 submitted to the Politburo of the Central Committee of the Russian Communist Party on October 15, 1923, related to the deepening economic crisis that confronted the Soviet Union and the deterioration of inner-party democracy as a consequence of the growing weight of bureaucracy in both the Soviet state and the Communist Party.

The issues raised in the Declaration were of immense significance. But as was to become increasingly clear as the struggle unfolded in the weeks, months and years that followed, the underlying cause of the political conflict was two irreconcilably opposed conceptions of the significance of the October 1917 Revolution and the nature of the historical epoch.

The overthrow of the bourgeois Provisional Government and the establishment of the first workers state was based on a program of international socialist revolution. The decision to seize power was based not on an appraisal of merely Russian conditions, but rather, on the crisis of the world capitalist system as revealed in the outbreak of World War I in 1914. The essential cause of the World War and of the revolution that erupted in Russia three years later was the contradiction between world economy and the bourgeois nation-state system.

The capitalist-imperialist solution to this contradiction was the waging of wars of conquest, the seizure of territory, the redistribution of coloniesthat is, a redivision of the world. The socialist solution to this crisis was the conquest of power by the working class, the abolition of capitalism, and the dissolution of the nation-state system. This solution was not a utopian scheme. The world socialist revolution developed out of the same global contradictions that had led to the world war. The strategy pursued by Lenin in 1917, under the influence of the theory of permanent revolution elaborated by Leon Trotsky during the previous decade, was based on this global strategy. The decisive factor in the formulation of Bolshevik strategy was not whether Russia, as a national entity, was ready for socialismthat is, whether its level of national economic development was sufficient for a transition to socialism. In fact, as the most economically backward of the major capitalist countries of that time, Russia was not ready for socialism. But the problems of economic and political development confronting Russia, in the context of the world crisis, could not be solved except through the overthrow of the capitalist class, the transfer of power to the working class, and the beginning of the reorganization of economic life on the basis of socialist property relations.

V. I. Lenin

However, the transition of the Soviet state to socialism could not be realized with a purely national strategy. The fate of the workers state established in October 1917 on the basis of a proletarian revolution led by a Marxist party depended upon the extension of the revolution beyond the borders of Russia into the advanced capitalist centers of Western Europe and North America.

As long as Lenin was in the leadership of the Bolshevik Party, this conception prevailed. It found its most advanced expression in the establishment of the Communist International in 1919, whose first four annual congresses assembled revolutionists from all over the world for the purpose of developing national sections capable of conquering power and advancing the world revolution. But the deterioration of Lenins health in 1922, his total removal from political activity as a result of a stroke in March 1923, and his death in January 1924 coincided with and facilitated the resurgence of nationalist tendencies within the Bolshevik leadership.

Increasingly, the problems of economic development in the USSR were interpreted in national, rather than international terms. This tendency was closely related to the growing weight and influence of the party and state bureaucracy. The rise to power of Josef Stalin was an expression of this process. The initial stages of the factional struggle were dominated by the bureaucracys resentment of the criticism of the party regime by Trotsky and the Left Opposition. But as the struggle continued into 1924, the underlying and fundamental programmatic differences emerged. The bureaucracys attack on Trotsky became focused on the theory of permanent revolution; that is, on his insistence on the essential connection between the fate of the Soviet Union and the victory of world revolution.

Throughout 1924, Trotskys opponents in the Bolshevik leadershipspearheaded by an unprincipled faction consisting of Grigory Zinoviev, Lev Kamenev and Stalinset out to discredit Trotsky by claiming that his theory of permanent revolution was anti-Leninist and expressed a lack of confidence in the Russian peasantrys commitment to socialism. A critical point in the increasingly bitter struggle was reached on December 17, 1924, when Stalin unveiled for the first time the theory of socialism in one country, explicitly advancingin opposition to permanent revolutionthe possibility of a transition to socialism on the basis of Russian resources, without the expansion of the socialist revolution into the advanced centers of world capitalism.

Stalin, Rykov, Kamenev and Zinoviev

Stalins speech legitimized a nationalist program that severed the link between the Russian and world socialist revolution. It was to have a profound effect not only on the internal policy of the Stalinist regime. It fundamentally changed the nature of the Communist International, which was converted from an instrument for the extension of world socialist revolution into an auxiliary agency of Soviet foreign policy, subordinating revolutionary political strategy to the pragmatically conceived interests of the Soviet Union as a national state. Initially, the nationalist policy of the Soviet regime led to the disorientation of the sections of the Communist International, resulting in major defeats of the working class in Britain, China and Germany.

By the mid-1930s, in the aftermath of the victory of the Nazis and the complete crushing of the German working class, the policies of the Stalinist Communist International acquired a consciously counterrevolutionary character. The eradication of socialists in the Soviet Union during the terror that began with the Moscow Trials in 1936 was accompanied by the Stalinist betrayal of the Spanish revolution, which cleared the path for the outbreak of World War II.

The struggle of the Left Opposition was, first and foremost, a defense of socialist internationalism and the strategy of world socialist revolution. In 1930, after he had been expelled from the Russian Communist Party and the Communist International and exiled from the Soviet Union, Trotsky restated the essential postulates of the theory of permanent revolution. He wrote:

The completion of the socialist revolution within national limits is unthinkable. One of the basic reasons for the crisis in bourgeois society is the fact that the productive forces created by it can no longer be reconciled with the framework of the national state. From this follows on the one hand, imperialist wars, on the other, the utopia of a bourgeois United States of Europe. The socialist revolution begins on the national arena, it unfolds on the international arena, and is completed on the world arena. Thus, the socialist revolution becomes a permanent revolution in a new and broader sense of the word; it attains completion only in the final victory of the new society on our entire planet.

Following the logic of the struggle within the Russian Communist Party, which became centered on the fundamental issues of world revolutionary strategy, the work of the Left Opposition passed beyond the boundaries of the Soviet Union. In 1928, during the Sixth Congress of the Stalinized Communist International, Trotskys Critique of the Draft Program, which he had written from his temporary place of exile in Alma Ata in Central Asia, accidentally came into the possession of the American revolutionary James P. Cannon and the Canadian revolutionary Maurice Spector. They smuggled the document out the Soviet Union and the fight they began for Trotskys internationalist program marked the beginning of the International Left Opposition.

Members of the Left Opposition on their way to exile in 1928. Seated left to right, L. Serebriakov, K. Radek, Trotsky, M. Boguslavsky, E. Preobrazhensky; standing left to right, C. Rakovsky, Y. Drobnis, A. Beloborodov, Seznovsky

Five years later, in July 1933, in response to the Stalinist betrayal of the German working class and the victory of Hitler, Trotsky issued the call for the formation of the Fourth International. In September 1938, its founding congress was held.

We are now marking the centenary of the Trotskyist movement. The persistence of this movement over such an extended period has immense objective significance. It cannot be explained as the product of the personal devotion of individuals. Those who founded this movement are long gone. This movement has worked on an international scale, usually under the most difficult conditions. It was a minority, a small minority, in the workers movement, if it had a presence at all. Why then did it persevere?

When I joined the Trotskyist movement in the autumn of 1970, during a period of great student radicalization and mass movements throughout the world, radical politics was still dominated by the Stalinists, by the Maoists, by the Castroites. The Communist Parties were mass movements. People like Allende were the heroes of the hour. But what legacy have they left? They all have been swept from the scene. Trotsky, speaking of the Stalinist and revisionist movements of his day, said, of these outlived organizations, not one stone will be left upon another. And why? Because their program did not correspond to the objective characteristics of the epoch. They were attempts to impose false policies, largely nationalist policies, reformist policies, which could not answer the demands of the objective crisis.

The persistence of the Trotskyist movement can be explained only by the fact that its analysis corresponded to the nature of the epoch, an epoch which has not been transcended. We live in the same historical epoch, albeit at a very advanced and terminal stage of its existence, the epoch of imperialist crisis and decay through which Trotsky passed. The Russian Revolution, the World War that preceded it, were the product of the emergence of the imperialist epoch. We have not passed beyond it. It is striking the parallels that exist between our present day and our present situation and those which gave rise to the First World War and the Second World War. The terminology we use is the same terminology, and that becomes enormously important in understanding the approach that must be taken to the present problems.

The economic crises arising from the contradiction between the social process of production and private capitalist ownership of the productive forces, the geopolitical conflicts produced by the incompatibility of a highly integrated world economy and the archaic national state system, the destructive consequences of the subordination of all problems confronting advanced mass society to personal wealth accumulation, and the escalating social tensions produced by the exploitation of labor by the capitalist class and the mindless concentration of staggering wealth even as masses of people go hungrythese are the conditions that have placed world socialist revolution on the political agenda.

In fact, we are witnessing throughout the world a rising tide of working class struggle. It will assume dimensions of a magnitude unprecedented in world history. The events of the last several weeks have demonstrated how rapidly social consciousness changes, how rapidly people are radicalized by events which they had not foreseen.

One of the elements of the last 40 years, particularly in the aftermath of the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, was a certain apathy, ennui, a sense of hopelessness, a retreat into the individual, the personal, the concentration and focus on questions of personal identity, lifestyle, inordinate amounts of time spent in gyms, improving ones figure, watching ones weight, monitoring every aspect of ones personal petty activity, while ignoring the great events unfolding all around. Suddenly, and we can see this in the mass demonstrations taking place all over the world, a change has begun.

Trotsky once wrote that in periods of reaction, ignorance bares its teeth. But then life changes, events come breaking through, and over a long period of time and after many experiences, the recognition emerges that the world was changed. No one believes the media and its propaganda. The bankruptcy of all political parties becomes evident. The president resembles a doddering, senile ignoramus. The Republican Party, a bunch of gangsters. None of these forces have anything to say, and the petty-bourgeois radicals, the denizens of postmodernism, preoccupied with one or another question related to personal identity, endlessly full of grudges and complaints, denunciations for one or another personal faux pas, they become insignificant in the light of events.

What preoccupies the world today is the danger of global war, the use of genocide against innocent people, poverty, the destruction of the environment, a massive pandemic which kills millions and for which no government has an answer, not even one so simple as asking people to wear masks rather than becoming ill, because to do so in one way or another gets in the way of accumulating personal wealth and profit. But what is really stimulating and changing world conditions is the sudden resurgence of the most basic and powerful of all social forces, the working class as an international force.

For much of your young lives, you did not hear very much about strikes, about working class activity. In fact, one of the basic conceptions of post-modernist theory was that the old historical narratives centered on class struggle and socialism were no longer relevant. But today, there are strikes everywhere, embracing broad sections of the working class, and it is certainly becoming clear that the class struggle is the motor force of social development. That doesnt mean that the problems which confront workers are easily resolved. They enter the struggles with rotten leadership, with organizations that betray them, and with little understanding of the history of the class struggle, not only in their own country but on an international scale.

Audience members at the literature table following the event.

And herein lies the immense significance of the Fourth International. Our party is the concentrated expression of the whole historical experience of the class over an entire epoch. We are often asked how it is possible for the World Socialist Web Site, which has been published every day without fail for 25 years, to have exhibited such extraordinary accuracy and prescience in the evaluation of events. We have the advantage of being able to work off of an enormous historical experience, to relate the present to the experience of the past, not to simply see the present as a repetition of what took place, but to have an orientation that allows us to focus on the basic and essential driving forces of political development.

We are now witnessing, as Ive said, a great political radicalization. Our task is to bring into this movement a perspective and program that enables it to develop an understanding of its essential tasks. The working class and the young people who are entering the road of struggle must assimilate the experiences of the last century, study the history of the Trotskyist movementand you must do so in struggle. And, therefore, I urge all of you to draw conclusions from what is now taking place, become active in the fight for socialism. Prepare yourself by joining the Socialist Equality Party.
Amidst the deafening propaganda for a further escalation of war in the Middle East, Humboldt University has banned the International Youth and Students for Social Equality (IYSSE) university group from holding an event entitled Stop the Genocide in Gaza. This is an act of political censorship designed to suppress any discussion of the German governments brutal policies in the region. We call on all students and WSWS readers to send protest emails to the university administration at praesidentin@hu-berlin.de (copy to iysse@gleichheit.de).

The faculty of justice of the Humboldt University is pictured in Berlin, Germany. (AP Photo/Michael Sohn) [AP Photo]

The university administration has justified its censorship by saying that the IYSSE is exercising a general political mandate with the event, which is not covered by the tasks assigned to the student body by university law. This is obviously a flimsy pretext.

The IYSSE has been represented in the student parliament for nine years and has independently organised dozens of events on general political issues as a university group during the same period. Other university groups such as the LHG (FDP), the Jusos (SPD) or the Left List also organise general political events. Only the constituted student body itself is prohibited from making general political statements, but not the university groups represented in it.

It is therefore quite obvious that with this absurd argumentation the university administration wants to enforce censorship of what can be said on campus. While the federal government supports and promotes genocide against the Palestinian population, the university administration wants to ban any discussion about it.

There can be no doubt about the nature of this policy. The collective punishment of the entire population of the Gaza Strip by cutting off food, water and electricity alone constitutes a vicious war crime. The massive bombardment of the densely populated area has already killed over 5,000 people, including over 2,000 minors. An additional 1.1 million people have been sent on a death march to the south of the country, where they continue to be bombed.

These colossal crimes of the far-right Israeli government are not supported by the German government in order to protect Jewish lives. On the contrary, the Israeli population itself is being used as cannon fodder to push through the far-reaching geopolitical goals of the US, Germany and other imperialist powers.

The wars waged by the US and also Germany since 1991 in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya, and many other countries in the region have already cost the lives of over two million people, but the imperialist powers have not succeeded in bringing the region under control.

Now, with their threats of war against Lebanon, Syria, and Iran, they want to stage a new attempt that would have even bloodier consequencesincluding for the Israeli population. The US has already sent tens of thousands of soldiers and two aircraft carriers to the region, and Germany has also moved forward with a frigate and special forces. Chancellor Olaf Scholz did not rule out a full-scale Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) deployment in an interview with newsweekly Der Spiegel.

It is particularly foul that this genocidal policy is being justified with the experiences of the Holocaust! As if the prison break of people oppressed and humiliated for decades could be compared to the industrial mass murder of six million Jews by one of the strongest imperialist powers! It is not the Arab workers and youth shouting Free Palestine who stand in the tradition of German imperialism and the Nazis, but the ruling class of Germany with its support for genocide!

The German elites have long been rehabilitating the Nazis and their antisemitism. On September 22, German Ambassador Sabine Sparwasser honoured Waffen SS veteran Yaroslav Hunka with a standing ovation in the Canadian Parliament. The paper Politico, from right-wing publishers Springer, now campaigning most vociferously against alleged antisemitism, then declared that the main task of the SS had not been the genocide of the Jews and Hunkas membership in the Nazi unit did not make him a real Nazi!

The applause for Hunka is not an oversight. In its proxy war against Russia, the German government is collaborating with the regime in Kiev that erects monuments to Nazi collaborators like Stepan Bandera and Roman Shukhevych.

Humboldt University is a centre for the trivialisation of Nazi crimes and the justification of new wars. From here, Eastern Europe History professor Jorg Baberowski told Der Spiegel in 2014 that Hitler was not vicious, and that the Holocaust was basically the same as shootings in the Russian civil war. Two years later, Baberowski downplayed the role of antisemitism in the Holocaust in his book Spaces of Violence.

When the IYSSE sharply criticised these positions in leaflets and at events, it was fiercely attacked by professors, the history department and university management. Media attacks on the right-wing radical professor were unacceptable, the university presidium announced. Even when Baberowski physically attacked one of our Student Parliament deputies and threatened to punch you in the face, the university management defended this as humanly understandable.

This year, university president Julia von Blumenthal opened the atrocity propaganda exhibition Russian War Crimes, held in the foyer of the main building, explaining that it was intended to counteract the gradually decreasing support for arms supplies to Ukraine. The university thus placed itself directly in the service of German militarism, which for the third time is gearing up to defeat and subjugate Russia militarily.

Now, students who criticise these right-wing and militaristic positions are to be muzzled on campus! In this way, the university administration is continuing the worst traditions of the self-enforced conformity of universities as happened under the Nazis. While right-wing radical professors are allowed to spread their falsifications of history and the university itself becomes an exhibition site of atrocity propaganda, critical students are to be silenced.

We therefore call on all students and all WSWS readers to protest against this act of censorship to the university administration at praesidentin@hu-berlin.de (copy to iysse@gleichheit.de). German universities must not be allowed to be turned into centres of war propaganda.
Maxim Goldarb

On October 24, the World Socialist Web Site received an urgent message from Ukraine that the Kiev apartment of Maxim Goldarb, the head of the Union of Left Forces  For a New Socialism party, had been raided on October 12 by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). Goldarb was accused in absentia of disseminating information in favor of the aggressor and justifying aggression against Ukraine and faces imprisonment.

The SBU, Ukraines domestic secret service, is the chief agency responsible for the persecution and terrorization of opponents of the NATO-backed Zelensky government. It is notorious for its infestation with fascist elements and ties to neo-Nazi formations.

Along with 12 other opposition parties, the Union of Left Forces, which opposes the NATO war against Russia, was banned at the beginning of the war; its offices were raided and several of its members arrested and driven underground. The partys head, Goldarb has written several articles for the WSWS. Refuting the torrent of propaganda in the pro-war media in Ukraine and the NATO countries, his articles shed light on the extraordinary attacks on democratic rights in Ukraine, the criminal methods employed by the Zelensky regime to forcibly draft men into the army and the erection of monuments for Nazi collaborators at the cost of millions of dollars. Goldarb recently also gave an interview to the WSWS in which he discussed the growing moods of opposition among workers in Ukraine to the war.

Just over a month before the raid, the World Socialist Web Site had published Goldarbs article How people in Ukraine are declared traitors to the state: The mechanism of the repressive apparatus. In that article, he wrote, almost every day, we have been reading in the Ukrainian news or hearing on TV about state traitors who were exposed by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) or the State Office of Investigation (GBR) and prosecutors, because they are suspected of anti-state activities and treason. The article exposed how, in Ukraine, opponents of the government are routinely accused of state treason without the slightest legal justification and evidence, imprisoned and tortured.

Now the same anti-democratic charade is being employed by the Ukrainian state against Goldarb. The Political Council of the Union of Left Forces informed the WSWS that, he was accused:

in absentia of allegedly committing information activities in favor of the aggressor and justifying aggression against Ukraine. The court sent a submission for his arrest and imprisonment. At the same time, the document of suspicion was not delivered or sent to Maxim Goldarb in the manner prescribed by law, which grossly violated his rights to defense. What was the basis for the SBU and prosecutors to make such a heavy accusation? Probably some serious proof of guilt, evidence: operational data, unclassified data, results of witness interviews, results of phone tapping, searches and inspections? No. Maybe espionage, sabotage, coup detat, murder, corruption? Also no. Because it was not and could not be: being a highly qualified lawyer, Maxim Goldarb acts exclusively within the realm of legality. Today, no proof of guilt in Ukraine is needed to prosecute oppositionistsonly posts in social networks and statements about the causes and consequences of the war in Ukraine, a different, disagreeing position with the position of the official Ukrainian authorities are enough. What did Maxim Goldarb talk about in his articles, posts on social networks, speeches, interviews? He spoke about the need for an immediate cessation of hostilities and the beginning of peace talks; he wrote about the approaching nuclear catastrophe; he pointed out the beneficiaries of the war in Ukraine, primarily the oligarchy and the military-industrial complex; he wrote about the unthinkable corruption of war and blood; he openly declared the blossoming of neo-Nazism in the country; he drew historical parallels to the current situation. Today, such expressions of opinion in Ukraine is a thought crime, a grave sin in the eyes of the current government, because dissent, objectivity and truth undermine the foundations of its rule. This is punishable in todays Ukraine by mandatory arrest, imprisonment for up to 15 years and confiscation of all property.

Maxim Goldarbs life is in danger. The World Socialist Web Site, organ of the International Committee of the Fourth International, demands an end to the political persecution of Goldarb, his Union of Left Forces and all other left-wing parties in Ukraine.
Students at University of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) walked out of class on Wednesday, protesting the suspension of four students and wider threats against the right to protest on campus against Israels war on Gaza.

Four students were suspended by the university on October 12, after they rallied on the steps of SOAS against Israels genocidal military bombardment of Gaza. On October 13, students from the Palestine Society on campus who were not even present at the rally were threatened with disciplinary action if they continue protesting.

Protesters at SOAS

The action against students right to protest is part of a wider clampdown at SOAS. Over the past fortnight, large numbers of security personnel have been deployed at entry points to the campus and inside buildings. Police have harassed and questioned students simply for wearing a keffiyeh.

Hundreds of students joined Wednesdays walk-out that took place at midday. They rallied in SOASs forecourt, chanting, From London to Gazamobilise the Intifada!, Resistance is justified! and From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!

Student leaders who addressed the protest demanded that all four suspensions be dropped, allowing the students to resume their studies. They called for the withdrawal of disciplinary threats against members of the Palestinian Society and echoed its call that SOAS must re-establish the right to protest on the steps of the main building, the historic centre of activism on campus.

The university has attempted to mask its crack-down on democratic rights by claiming that students protesting on the steps pose a health and safety risk. But the prohibition extends way beyond the steps. At Wednesdays rally, security insisted that members of the Socialist Equality Party dismantle their literature tent in the forecourt area. Unidentified security personnel photographed SEP posters and pamphlets, along with leaflets advertising a November 9 public meeting, Stop Israels genocidal war on Gaza! SEP members were also put on notice that they were being filmed via body cameras.

An SEP member later addressed students during the open mic session, warning that Israels genocidal rampage in Gaza was being backed by the major imperialist powers and was part of a developing Third World War. In Europe, NATO was waging a proxy war in Ukraine against Russia, while a massive military build-up was underway against China. He called for students to turn to the working class as the only social force with the power to defeat imperialism.

Citing the urgent call issued by Palestinian trade unions for global solidarity to paralyse Israels war machine, he condemned the refusal of the Rail, Maritime and Transport union, Unite and the Communication Workers Union to organise action.

After the rally, reporters from the World Socialist Web Site spoke with students about their reasons for attending the walk-out and their wider views on the war against Gaza.

Euan, a second-year politics and international relations student at SOAS said, Its tragic and horrifying whats going on in Gaza. Its been going on for so long now  75 years of Israeli occupation of Palestine.

Euan

Its important to take a stand. The international community generally stands behind Israel. UN resolutions that are passed saying that Palestine needs to be recognised, but they are always vetoed by the United States.

Britain is complicit. With the British government saying that Israel has the right to defend itself, its essentially just saying that its okay for Israel to go on bombing Palestinians indiscriminately. Saying this isnt support for attacking innocent Israelis. Thats obviously abhorrent, but the truth is that Israel is the aggressor. They are a powerful state which is given billions and billions by the United States every single year. They bomb, bomb, bomb the Palestinians indiscriminately. They say they are terrorists, but we all know that innocent people are dying. We need to do something to rein Israel in.

The fact that students have been suspended for simply supporting the protests should concern all students. Universities are meant to be a place for self-expression. Some were apparently suspended who werent even at the protest but are members of the Palestine society.

Nilam said, The University is taking drastic measures against anyone who is openly supporting Palestine. Security has been doubled on campus. The police have been called on students just for wearing keffiyehseven off campus. A group of students wearing Palestinian colours had the police called on them by the University, and they were interrogated. On campus, it has become impossible to protest and multiple students have been threatened with suspension and four students have already been suspended.

Nilam

You would have thought that everyone would have learnt from history. Everyone says that history repeats itself. When we look back and say, I cant believe that people would have supported the Nazi regime, or Apartheid in South Africa, or slavery across the western world we think it was awful that people supported it. But we are doing the same thing, we are supporting a terrorist state.

The governments have clearly supported IsraelItaly, France, the United States but within those countries a lot of people are protesting.

One has taken the side of their political allies and the people have taken the side of the victims. To pretend that supporting the Palestinians is anti-Semitic is bogus. If you study history, you should know not to be on the side of the oppressors, whether its the Jews being oppressed or the Palestinians. Its really nice to see the number of Jews all over the world who have stood up for Palestine. So that comparison is such an insult to the Jewish people.

Israels blockade is a war crime. And for the Labour Party to come out and actively support war crimes is insanity. They are losing popularity so much now, and they deserve it. [Former Labour leader] Jeremy Corbyns refusal to publicly condemn Starmer makes you lose confidence in everything that hes been saying. People have seen Corbyn as an icon for workers rights and morality. But for him to not be able to speak openly is sad to see. It makes you feel that theres nothing else he says that you can trust. It is really depressing to know that there is not a single person in power who you can look to for any sort of moral clarity.

Nilam agreed there was a direct connection between the war on Gaza and the war on the working class at home: You wouldnt believe this is one of the top 10 richest countries in the world. The way they treat us, they hate us. They want to wipe us off the face of the planet. We cant have the National Health Service, we cant have education, we cant have a wage that matches the cost of living, we cant have a house, we cant rent. I dont even know where they want us to go right now. What do they want us to do? Die? Shrivel away? Disappear?

Jacob said, It's an unprecedented level of violence, but if you look at the statistics, around 95 percent of the people killed in the Palestine/Israel conflict have been Palestinians.

Jacob

We are in a bubble as central London university students, but it does seem that the tide of popular opinion is changing in the UK. In a recent series of polls something like only 3 percent said we should provide arms to Israel. So the government is representing only 3 percent of the population!

Asked about the four SOAS Students suspended for voicing opposition to Israel's genocidal campaign, Jacob said, I think it's disgusting. It betrays the values for which SOAS has been known for years. You can see that over time the underlying values and morality of the university have changed. And to suspend students who haven't done anything wrong apart from holding a protest is a shame on SOAS.
With Israels savage bombardment of the Gaza Strip continuing unabated, the humanitarian crisis faced by its 2.3 million residents has reached horrendous dimensions. In addition to an official death toll approaching 7,000, over 1.4 million people have been displaced by Israels genocidal onslaught, while supplies of food, clean water and fuel are on the verge of expiring.

The global charity Oxfam criticised the Israeli government Wednesday for using starvation as a weapon of war. Noting that a mere 2 percent of normal food deliveries had reached the Gaza Strip since October 9, the charity pointed out that local supplies could not be distributed due to a lack of fuel and damaged roads from the Israeli bombardment. Food storage is also proving impossible, since refrigerators are not operating due to the absence of electricity. The lack of power, combined with incessant Israeli air strikes, has forced many bakeries and supermarkets to close, making it even harder to obtain food.

Palestinians evacuate two wounded boys out of the destruction following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. [AP Photo/Abed Khaled]

There are only three litres of clean water available per person in the Gaza Strip, just one-fifth of the 15 litres the UN says is the bare minimum necessary for populations facing a humanitarian crisis. The trickle of aid making its way across the Rafah border crossing includes lentils, flour and other dry goods, which are useless for a population lacking the water to prepare them.

Oxfams Middle East Regional Director Sally Abi Khalil said, The situation is nothing short of horrificWhere is humanity? Millions of civilians are being collectively punished in full view of the world, there can be no justification for using starvation as a weapon of war. World leaders cannot continue to sit back and watch; they have an obligation to act and to act now.

The world leaders, first and foremost US President Joseph Biden, have made it abundantly clear that they fully endorse the Israeli regimes genocide. Speaking alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese Wednesday, Biden declared, I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. Im sure innocents have been killed.

Its the price of waging a war.

Responding to Bidens remarks, Human Rights Watch noted that it believes the more than 6,500 deaths reported by the Palestinian Health Ministry is more or less credible. It noted that over the course of 30 years of work in Gaza, Health Ministry fatality reports have been reliable.

Biden and his European imperialist allies have given the Israeli military carte blanche in Gaza as they prepare for a far broader regional war. Washington has already sent two aircraft carrier battlegroups to the region and is reportedly in the process of deploying 11 missile defence systems to protect troops stationed in Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Their real target is Iran, against which the US is provocatively seeking to trigger all-out war.

Underscoring American imperialisms backing for Israels slaughter in Gaza, the first act of the House of Representatives after electing a new speaker, the Trump ally Mike Johnson, was to pass a resolution in solidarity with Israel. The resolution carried the Orwellian title Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. Haaretz reported that Johnson visited Israel in 2020 on the invitation of a settler-activist and toured the Temple Mount.

The free hand granted Israel by the imperialist powers in Gaza is producing death and suffering on a horrific scale. In a chilling address to the nation yesterday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited the killing of thousands of terrorists by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF), before adding ominously, And that is only the beginning. Israel is working to eliminate Hamas by destroying its military and governing capabilities, he said, before adding, All Hamas members are dead men walkingabove and below ground, inside and outside Gaza.

One indicator of the brutality of the onslaught is the number of journalists and media workers who have been killed, which currently stands at 24, according to the Committee for the Protection of Journalists. Wael Dahdouh, the chief of Al Jazeeras Gaza bureau, lost his wife and two of his children in an Israeli air strike yesterday on the Nuseirat refugee camp. What just happened is clearits part of the ongoing targeting of women and children in Gaza. I was just reporting on the Israeli strikes that have targeted the Nuseirat area, he said shortly afterwards.

Dahdouhs family, like many others, fled south from the northern parts of the Gaza Strip following the Israeli regimes forced evacuation order. The World Socialist Web Site characterised the order at the time as a death march for Palestinians, which has been fully vindicated.

Air strikes yesterday hit targets in Khan Younis and Rafah in the far south of the Gaza Strip. A UN Refugee Agency school, where over 4,000 Palestinians were sheltering in Rafah, suffered extensive damage after a bomb landed close by.

A map of the Gaza Strip showing key towns and neighboring countries. [Photo by Gringer / CC BY-SA 3.0

The provision of healthcare and other basic necessities is collapsing. The UN Refugee Agency for Palestine reported that it only has a few hours of fuel left, after which it would cease to supply foodstuffs to bakeries and individuals. If we do not get this shipment of fuel tonight, [by] tomorrow morning, Thursday morning, we are going to take very tough decisions, depriving people, depriving the communities that we serve, from humanitarian assistance, commented Juliette Touma, director of communications for UNRWA. Since October 7, 38 UNRWA employees have been killed in the air strikes.

Dr. Hussam Al Safiya, speaking from the Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahia in northern Gaza, warned that the institution would become a mass grave when its fuel supply runs out Thursday. We are overwhelmed with dozens of wounded, dying and dead children coming in, he told Al Jazeera. The Al-Wafa hospital in central Gaza is no longer functioning as a medical facility treating patients.

Speaking from Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Dr. Mohammed Kandeel described the catastrophic conditions. Words cannot describe how bad the situation is. Since last night, we have received 300 wounded patients. We received 150 killed. We did Cesarean sections to two severely wounded pregnant women.

The Israeli military is also stepping up strikes elsewhere. It reportedly struck a Hezbollah command post and several other sites in southern Lebanon yesterday after rockets were fired into northern Israel earlier in the day. Syrian media reported an Israeli bomb attack on Aleppo International Airport. In the occupied West Bank, an air strike was launched in Jenin against a man accused of shooting at Israeli soldiers.
Analysis of a jawbone in the Hualongdong cave in eastern China dated at 300,000 years old has shown an intriguing array of features both archaic and modern. The nearly complete mandible together with a partial cranium has overall been labelled HLD 6.

The analysis was presented in an important paper by Professor Xiujie Wu, at the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) at the Chinese Academy of Science in Beijing, and her team, published in July in the Journal of Human Evolution: Morphological and morphometric analyses of a late Pleistocene hominin mandible from Hualongdong, China.

Professor Xiujie Wu

Wu et al wrote: Results indicate that the HLD 6 mandible exhibits a mosaic morphological pattern characterized by a robust corpus [body of the mandible] and relatively gracile symphysis [mandible median line marked by a thin ridge] and Ramus [movable hinge on either side of head]. The moderately developed mental trigone [the overall structure of the lower jaw] and a clear anterior mandibular incurvation of the HLD 6 mandible are reminiscent of Late Pleistocene hominin and recent modern human morphology.

In hominin evolution robust features are considered indicative of more archaic human forms, while gracile (delicate) features indicate modern evolutionary traits.

Analysis of the fossils cranium published in 2021 showed a similar combination of archaic and more modern features.

Ive came across some materials about this latest finding, and couldnt agree more on believing this finding can show the tendency, and a time point, that since 300,000 years ago, there was a transition that East Asian man experienced evolving from ancient to modern man, a paleontologist Wang Xiong told the Global Times. Scientists have speculated on the significance of these fossils for human evolution, they may represent a new lineage entirely. How HLD 6 fits into the evolution of modern man, Homo sapiens, is not clear.

The Hualongdong people could represent a previously unknown ancestor or close relative of early Homo sapiens, a palaeoanthropologist who was part of the team led by Xiujie Wu told Nature.

The Hualongdong cave, located in the Dongzhi county of the west China province of Anhui, is an important fossil site. Scientists have been investigating there since 2013. Earlier fossil finds included a Homo erectus skull named Dongzhi man, described in 2015, identified from two skull fragments and two teeth. It is between 150,000 and 412,000 years old. Scientists unearthed human bone fragments belonging to at least 16 individuals, including a child approximately 12 to 16 years old and numerous stone tools. Along with the human artefacts, 6,000 fossils of vertebrate animals, including stegodon (an elephant ancestor), giant tapir and giant pandas were discovered. The animal fossils show signs of cut marks indicating human butchery.

Dali Man

Together with the animal bone fossils and the stone implements, we assume the site was the home for a relatively mature human community, the IVPP researcher in charge of the excavation, Liu Wu, told the Peoples Daily.

H. erectus is thought to have originally evolved 2 million years ago. The species is one of the most widespread, with fossils found in Africa and across the Eurasian landmass to China and southeast Asia (Java man). The species is thought to have become extinct 117,000 years ago, based on a fossil found in Ngangdong, Java in 2019.

Previously the hominin fossils from this period were considered as intermediate between Homo erectus and Homo sapiens but the plethora of Chinese discoveries is challenging this view.

The hominin fossil discovery and related studies in the last decade have changed this traditional view on the evolution pattern of the late Middle Pleistocene hominins in China radically, Wu and her team stated. The hominin fossils from this time period, such as Dali, Jinniushan, Maba, Tongzi, Xujiayao, Xuchang, and Xiahe, exhibit high morphological variability and are not easily allocated to the existing taxonomic groups.

All the fossils mentioned were discovered in China and are intermediate between H. erectus and H. sapiens, but not enough information is available to characterise their species denomination. Clearly the late to middle Pleistocene was a period of great flux in human evolution.

Dali man, comprising of an entire fossilised skull of a young male, a typical representative of this period, was discovered by a geologist from the Shaanxi Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources, Liu Shuntang, in 1978 in Dali County, Shaanxi province, China. It is 209,000 years old.

A paper published in 1981 in Scientia Sinica by palaeontologist X. Z. Wu describes a well-preserved cranium of an archaic type of early Homo sapiens from Dali, China. Wu analysed that It has many characters identical to those of early Homo sapiens or intermediate between Homo erectus and modern man. It possesses also some features similar to those of modern man, and close to Homo erectus in some respects. So it probably belongs to an archaic type of early Homo sapiens.

An article published in Nature in September drew parallels with fossil remains discovered at the Jebel Irhoud archaeological site in Morocco, found during the early 2000s, that may provide insights into the significance of HLD 6 and the other undesignated Chinese fossils.

The Jebel Irhoud human remains are thought to belong to one of the earliest members of the evolutionary lineage that includes Homo sapiens. Jebel Irhoud is a cave located 50 km southeast of the city of Safi. It is an important paleontological site discovered in 1960 where several human fossils have been unearthed, as well as a stone tool industry and the remains of several animal species indicative of a steppe ecosystem.

The fossils were originally dated as 40,000 years old and were classified as Neanderthals, but more accurate work at the site dated the fossils as 300,000 years old. A skull designated as Jebel Irhoud-1 is considered the most important find.

In a comment by professor of anthropology at the Natural History Museum in London Chris Stringer and anthropologist at New York University Julia Galway-Witham in Nature in June 2017, On the origin of our species, stated that the approximately 350,000280,000-year-old fossils from Jebel Irhoud in Morocco that could represent an early stage in Homo sapiens evolution. The facial shape of a Jebel Irhoud fossil previously discovered at the site shows similarities to the structure of more modern humans, such as the presence of delicate cheekbones. However, the shape of the braincase (the section of the skull enclosing the brain) is archaic in form, and has an elongated shape that is less globular than the structure of more modern H. sapiens.

The emergence of modern humans was a very complex and contradictory process. The first fossil considered to represent true humans, Herto Man discovered in 1997 in Ethiopia, is 160,000 years old. Yet genetic evidence suggests that humans may have emerged at least 500,000 years ago.

Stringer and Galway-Witham continued that these findings suggest that clear-cut boundaries in H. sapiens evolution, such as the descriptions of fossils as archaic or anatomically modern, are likely to fade as the fossil record improves. They are probably right, although their evidence adds to the picture of an extended temporal overlap of archaic and more-modern-looking forms across the continent (Africa)...

A paleoanthropologist at the National Research Center On Human Evolution in Spain, Maria Martinon-Torres, who was involved in the analysis of HLC-6, told Nature, More fossils and studies are necessary to understand [the Hualongdong peoples] precise position in the human family tree. She pointed out that proteins extracted from bones could shed further light on how the Hualongdong people are related to modern humans, as well as to more archaic species.

The hominin fossils from China will play a critical role in the elaboration of how modern humans evolved.
Western Texas College is thrilled to announce that six of its talented welding students are set to participate in the highly anticipated Gulf Coast Community College Welding Showdown, scheduled for Saturday, November 4, 2023. Hosted by Alvin Community College in Alvin, Texas, this exciting event promises to be a riveting showcase of welding mastery and innovation.

Under the mentorship of Jeffrey Stewart, WTC's esteemed Welding Instructor, these students will have the chance to put their learned skills to the test as they compete in a variety of challenging categories. The welding competition promises to be an electrifying spectacle for both participants and spectators alike.

"The Gulf Coast Community College Welding Showdown is a fantastic opportunity for our students to demonstrate the exceptional skills and craftsmanship they've honed during their time at Western Texas College," said Stewart.

The competition will feature six distinct categories, each designed to challenge the participants in unique ways.

The six accomplished students representing Western Texas College at this prestigious event are Samuel Hernandez, Patricio Araya, Kayden Kelly, Alejandro Ruiz, Rowdy Atkins, and Brody Nelson.

In addition to the thrilling competition and the opportunity to highlight their welding skills, participants at the Gulf Coast Community College Welding Showdown will have the chance to win some fantastic prizes.

First-place winners in the pipe categories will earn a coveted welding hood, an essential tool for any dedicated welder, along with a generous cash prize of $250. For the plate categories, first-place winners will also receive a welding hood, along with a cash prize of $100.

Those who secure the second-place position in their respective categories will receive a valuable set of Snap-on Screwdrivers, a cherished addition to any welder's toolkit.

The third-place champions will be rewarded with a handy inspection light, a tool that plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and precision of welding work.

As they embark on this thrilling journey, Western Texas College stands behind these talented individuals and looks forward to the impressive showcase of their welding skills. The college community eagerly anticipates their outstanding performance and hopes for a successful outcome at the Gulf Coast Community College Welding Showdown.

For more information about Western Texas College and its Welding program, please visit the webpage at wtc.edu/welding.
(Bloomberg) -- Even by the standards of the Space Race, the idea seemed bold, maybe a bit crazy.

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In 1968, before the first human set foot on the moon, an engineer working on one of the Apollo missions experiments proposed a new way to power the world. Giant orbiting solar power plants could soak up the constant sunshine in spaceunhindered by clouds, night or seasonsand beam it back to Earth, Peter Glaser wrote in the journal Science. Only space-based solar and perhaps nuclear fusion held the potential to one day replace fossil fuels as civilizations main energy source, and fusion was so far off that Glaser dismissed it as the physicists dream.

This May, researchers huddled on a rooftop in Pasadena, California, received a ping of energy from an experiment passing high overhead. Designed at the California Institute of Technology and launched on a SpaceX rocket in January, the experiment had transferred power wirelessly, shifted the direction of the beam with no moving parts and then aimed it at Earth. Its one of three Caltech experiments, packed onto a single satellite, now testing key components of a space-based solar system. Glasers dream has inched closer to reality.

When I first thought about this, to me, it was preposterous, says Caltech professor Harry Atwater, a leader of the schools Space Solar Power Project. But then I started thinking, and it sort of gnawed at me, and I couldnt let go of it.

Atwater is part of a new generation of engineersdriven by climate change and armed with technologies unavailable to Glaser, who died in 2014betting that space solars time has finally arrived. Thin-film solar cells and carbon-fiber building materials have slashed the potential weight of orbiting plants, and private launch companies such as SpaceX have cut the cost of lofting them into space. Construction wouldnt require highly trained astronauts laboring in suits; plant components stowed for launch could unfold themselves in space.

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In 2020 the US Naval Research Laboratory used the militarys X-37B space plane to launch a device that converts solar energy directly into microwaves, a building block for future orbiting power plants. The European Space Agency has its own space solar program, though it remains years away from conducting orbital experiments, as do China, Japan and the UK. Nikolai Joseph, an analyst at NASA, said last year that the agency would take another look at the ideas feasibility, but so far the storied organization doesnt seem to be actively engaged in the race.

Creating a network of orbiting solar plants, however, remains a daunting task, not only to design the plants but also to prove that they can make economic sense. The hurdles that have grounded space-based solar in the past arent merely technical, theyre also financial.

Nobodys shown that any of the challenges cannot be solved, says Sanjay Vijendran, leader of the Solaris initiative at the European Space Agency (ESA). There are no showstoppers. There are, of course, huge challenges. But we have to make a start at some point. We dont have a decade to lose.

A report by the Frazer-Nash Consultancy for the UK government in 2021 found that space-based solar power could one day have a levelized cost of energy (which includes capital costs as well as operations) of 35 to 79 ($43 to $96) per megawatt-hour, following an 18-year development program. This seems optimistic, considering that BloombergNEF says a new US wind farm with back-up batteriesproven, frequently deployed technologieswill have a levelized cost from $63 to $103 per MWh.

The people pursuing space-based solar understand its status as one of those long-sought breakthroughs that always seem a decade away. To generate a meaningful amount of energy, the plants would have to be far larger than any objects humans have placed in orbit to date. They could be damaged by micrometeorites or space junk, and theyd have to overcome the inherent loss of energy that transmitting power by microwavethe most likely method, because microwaves pierce cloudsentails.

The basic idea stretches back even further than Glaser. Author Isaac Asimov set his 1941 short story Reason aboard a space station that absorbs the energy of the sun and beams it to a distant Earth, though the technology the station uses is never spelled out. Atwaters colleague Ali Hajimiri found a translation of the story while growing up in Iran. I was exposed to that from an early age, he says. It was more of the science-fiction realm for me.

Billionaire real estate developer Donald Bren, a Caltech trustee, read about space-based solar power in the magazine Popular Science, and in 2011 he discussed setting up a research program with the schools president. He and his wife, Brigitte, a fellow trustee, have since donated more than $100 million to the effort. The school roped in Atwater, a veteran of several solar-power startups, and Hajimiri, who specializes in integrated circuits and the wireless transfer of power. Sergio Pellegrino, whose interests include lightweight structures, rounded out the team.

They decided the approach that space-based solar advocates had taken in the past wouldnt work. Their alternative is radically different, something Hajimiri describes as going from an elephant to an army of ants. Instead of a massive solid structure in space, each of Caltechs power plants would be a fleet of detached, kitelike solar arrays orbiting in formation. Each array would be launched folded up, then unfurl in orbit. Tiny thrusters would keep it in position relative to the rest. Together, they would make up a single plant that could be a kilometer wide but without any physical structure linking the arrays.

Previous space solar concepts envisioned plants beaming energy through a big microwave dish. In Caltechs version, transmitters located on all of the arrays would beam their energy together, making use of constructive and destructive interference to target the energy precisely where its wanted. That energy would be collected on the ground by a kilometer-wide receiver made of wire-mesh that Atwater likens to chicken wire. And the orbiting plant could easily change where it beams its energy. It could supply a disaster area or war zone where the power grid had been knocked out. You can actually have a carpetlike structure that you can roll open and make your receiving station, Hajimiri says.

Its hard to talk about this final step of space-based solarthat is, transmitting the energywithout conjuring images of a death ray. What would happen to birds or planes that flew through the beams? The Caltech team says the power density of the beam would be comparable to the power density of sunlight.

You could walk under the beam and have more danger from sunburn from the sunlight than from the microwave beam itself, Atwatersays. So that tends to defray what people call the smoking bird problem. Convincing the public of the systems safety, though, could prove challenging.

For now the team is taking data from its orbiting experiments. In addition to the power transmission experiment, another will test how a small-scale version of an array unfolds, and a third will see how different photovoltaic materials perform unprotected in the harsh environment of space. A full-scale system, Hajimiri says, remains a decade awaystill.

But space solar advocates insist the idea can work, if society has the will to pursue it.

Theres a big opportunity, and people just have to change the mindset that energy is something that has to be terrestrial, the ESAs Vijendran says. Theres a resource up there that we havent tapped.

(Corrects spelling of Harry Atwaters name in paragraphs 14 and 16.)

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
NEW BEDFORD  After a conversation with Guelmie Santiago, a candidate for at-large city councilor, in which they joked about creating a South Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce  local Hispanic business owner Von Marie Moniz said she was inspired to make it a reality.

She was kind of half kidding. But you can't really say that to me because I take everything seriously, Moniz said.

Moniz and Santiago both had recognized the need for a supportive and inclusive environment for Hispanic and other minority business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, professionals and organizations in their community, a chamber dedicated to actively advocating for, uplifting and equipping the Hispanic community in the South Coast.

Von Marie Moniz, left, created the South Coast Latina and Black Women in Business and the Hispanic Heritage Month pop-up. Yolanda Devine, right, author of 'L is for Latinx' signed her books during the day.

We're seeing a lot more representation in the small business scene, which makes people feel more comfortable to come out and do things that we want to do, Moniz added, who identifies as Hispanic.

Searching for more resources for the Hispanic community

In 2017, Moniz launched Von Marie Co., a wedding and event planning consultant company. She attended the EforAll SouthCoast program to help get her business off the ground, but said she felt there was a lack of resources catered to the Hispanic community in the area.

I think we are also afraid to access other resources because we think they arent meant for our community, she said.

Moniz said she always has her mother in the back of her mind who came to the United States when she was 18, barely speaking any English.

Samia Walker, left, and Von Marie Moniz, right, at EforAll's Bowties and Blazers, celebrating the Winter 2023 graduating cohort on April 18.

Born in New Jersey, as a first generation American, Moniz moved to Fall River in 1997, and attended Diman Regional Vocational Tech High School.

Growing up in a household where her family only spoke Spanish, Moniz said it was tough transitioning to speaking only English at school  with only three other Hispanic students there.

More: New Bedford siblings go viral on TikTok. Here's how to check out the dynamically funny duo.

Watching my mom struggle, but never letting it get her down, as I started getting older, I realized we didnt have many services to help others like her, she said. And I just wonder what would happen if she had someone that was able to empower her.

Story continues

Bringing more opportunities to diverse business owners

While Moniz said she officially plans to launch the chamber at the start of the new year, the chamber's mission will be to enhance opportunities, create a stronger network and make a lasting impact on the South Coast diverse business scene.

Moniz said she aspires to transform the chamber into a dynamic resource center that empowers Hispanic and minority-owned businesses, drives prosperity, sustainability, and entrepreneurship for its members and the wider community.

More: 'Representation matters so much': Local group for Latina business owners is launched

"We believe that when businesses and entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to succeed and are empowered to do so, it not only benefits them, but it also has a positive impact on the entire community," Moniz said.

Founding members include Damaris Ferrer, Thais Gutierrez, Jacqueline Correa and Bibiana De Jesus Pacheco, who will be the chamber's business and event manager.

These women bring their expertise, passion and dedication to the chamber's vision, Moniz added.

Von Marie Moniz, left, with Guelmie Santiago, right.

Moniz also founded Latinas in the South Coast in April 2022, another Massachusetts-based group focused on creating a platform for Latina career women, women in business or those thinking about starting a business. This will become part of the chamber.

Honored by State Rep. Tony Cabral

Moniz's dedication and commitment to the Hispanic community has not gone unnoticed. She recently received an email from Massachusetts State Rep. Tony Cabral, informing her that he had nominated her for The Massachusetts Black and Latino Legislative Caucus's Latino Excellence Award.

This award recognizes community leaders and trailblazers who are making a positive impact in their respective cities and towns in the commonwealth.

I was literally speechless and shocked. My jaw dropped, she said. "It makes me think that people are watching me, which is nice.

More: New Bedford's Whaling Museum is hosting a Black Empowerment Advisory Committee session

Moniz also shared that she was leaving her position as program manager for EforAll South Coast to become the new program experience manager for their virtual program in California, Texas, and Arizona.

In this new role, Moniz will continue to inspire and support entrepreneurs and small business owners in underserved communities, helping them turn their business plans into successful ventures.

Von Marie Moniz.

With Moniz's leadership and the support of its founding members, she said the chamber hopes to advocate, empower and educate businesses, entrepreneurs, and institutions dedicated to advancing the economic growth and prosperity of the Hispanic community is one that Moniz and her team take to heart.

I want to bring more resources to the South Coast that everyone knows they can access if they want or need, Moniz added.

Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at schitwood@s-t.com. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports.Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.

This article originally appeared on Standard-Times: South Coast Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to support minority businesses
Ken Griffin of Citadel told the Robin Hood conference that Nikki Haley, a GOP presidential candidate, was "a rockstar." Mike Blake/Reuters

Citadel founder Ken Griffin said his one-time favorite candidate, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, needs to win Iowa to have a chance.

Griffin, who has been looking for an alternative to former President Donald Trump, called Nikki Haley a rockstar.

Griffin was speaking at the Robin Hood conference in New York

Billionaire Citadel founder Ken Griffin may have a new favorite candidate in the GOP presidential primary.

Griffin, who was originally a prominent supporter of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, called former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley "a rockstar" Wednesday in front of a crowd of finance titans and philanthropists. Speaking on stage with fellow hedge-fund billionaire Paul Tudor Jones at the closed-to-the-media Robin Hood conference in New York, Griffin said Haley has momentum and experience, while chastising the policy decisions of DeSantis over the last few months, a person in the room told Insider.

"We're going to see Governor DeSantis face pressure to justify and explain his decisions and that's a moment for him to mature," Griffin said.

For DeSantis to have a chance, Griffin said, he needs to win Iowa. Meanwhile, Chris Christie  the former New Jersey governor who counts billionaire Steve Cohen as a supporter  is done if he loses New Hampshire, Griffin said.

The Citadel chief has been keen to find a GOP alternative to former President Donald Trump, who has dominated polls despite multiple indictments and scandals. Griffin told the audience at Robin Hood  a charity that aims to alleviate poverty in New York City  that he believes there's a solid chance a candidate other than Trump and President Joe Biden wins the 2024 election.

Citadel declined to comment.

Griffin also spoke about the markets, as the hedge fund mogul is also the founder of market-maker Citadel Securities, which was valued at $22 billion last year. He said one big risk he sees in the derivatives space is the continued shift to passive strategies.

Story continues

These strategies, Griffin said, do not provide liquidity during periods of market turmoil. He played to the room of money managers, telling them "we play a very critical role in keeping our capital markets efficient."

"The SEC should be thinking about how to increase both active management and ensure that the hedge fund community continues to flourish rather than continue to burden us," he said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
SINGAPORE, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 26, 2023, Biosyngen's TIL therapy BST02 for liver cancer was granted an approval for clinical trial by the US FDA. BST02, a breakthrough product in the field of cell and gene therapy, represents the world's first TIL therapy designed for the treatment of all types of liver cancer to progress into the clinical stage.

TIL therapy involves the isolation of natural infiltrating lymphocytes from tumor tissue, followed by in vitro amplification in a controlled laboratory environment to enhance their functionality. These optimized lymphocytes are subsequently re-infused into the patient. TIL therapy offers several notable advantages, including the presence of multiple TCR clones, enhanced tumor homing capabilities, and reduced targeted toxicity. As a result, TIL therapy brings significant promise and benefit in the treatment of solid tumors.

The approval of the BST02 (TIL therapy) is another significant achievement for Biosyngen, as it marks the fourth first-in-class product in the company's pipeline that secured IND. This milestone has been made possible through the utilization of Biosyngen's distinct and effective global integrated R&D translational system. Over the course of the past nine months, Biosyngen has obtained IND approval in both China and the United States for four innovative products. This accomplishment solidifies the company's position as an emerging biotech with in-house R&D capabilities, specializing in CAR-T, TCR-T, and TIL therapies in the field of T cell therapy.

The utilization of tumor-specific T cells, such as CAR-T, TCR-T, and TIL therapies, signifies a significant advancement in the treatment of solid tumors. While these therapies share a common development trajectory, they also diverge in terms of technological approaches; development and manufacturing process also may vary.

Currently, Biosyngen has established comprehensive technology platforms and database, including IDENTIFIER, which serve as a robust foundation for the discovery and recognition of antigens, antibodies, and TCR, as well as the design of various specialized therapeutic products. Through diligent, consistent and sustainable efforts, Biosyngen is able to address unmet clinical demands and advance development of innovative immunotherapy drugs that hold significant value, ultimately benefiting patients worldwide.

Story continues

About BST02

Primary liver cancer, which includes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), is a prevalent malignant tumor of the digestive system globally. Recent data from GLOBOCAN 2020 reveals that liver cancer has become the seventh most common malignant tumor, with an estimated 906,000 new cases annually. Furthermore, it ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with approximately 830,000 fatalities each year. In China, primary liver cancer is the fourth most prevalent malignant tumor and the second most lethal form of cancer. Despite China's population accounting for 18.6% of the global population, the country experiences a disproportionately high burden of liver cancer, with 410,000 new cases and 391,000 deaths annually. These figures represent 45.3% and 47.1% of the global incidence and mortality rates, respectively. Consequently, liver cancer poses a significant threat to the well-being of Chinese population.

BST02 is a novel adoptive immune cell therapy that involves the expansion of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes derived from the patient's own cells. This therapy is specifically designed for the treatment of liver cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma.

The fundamental principle involves the collection and enrichment of lymphocytes that possess specific recognition of antigens found in tumor cells from the patient's own tumor tissue. These lymphocytes are then induced to undergo rapid proliferation in vitro through the use of cytokines, the stemness of these lymphocytes is also maintained. This process aims to maximize the expansion of T cells that possess anti-tumor functionality. Subsequently, these T cells are reintroduced into the patient, with the capability to effectively eliminate tumors. However, the application of traditional TIL drugs is subject to certain limitations. For instance, the production of these drugs must be conducted in close proximity to the clinical center, and their clinical use necessitates high doses of interleukin-2, which may pose certain safety risks.

BST02 overcame the limitations mentioned above  through cryopreservation, it addresses the constraints of distance and it eliminates the need for high levels of interleukin-2. Preliminary findings from exploratory clinical trials have demonstrated evidence of its safety and efficacy.

About Biosyngen

Biosyngen is a cell and gene therapy biotechnology company, focusing on R&D in immunotherapy and drug development; to achieve the best outcome for cancer patients.

The company's R&D team consists of multinationals from Singapore, China, Germany, Australia, France and the US, many of whom received their Phd. from renowned universities. Biosyngen's strategy of dual R&D centres and dual GMP facilities in Singapore and China, firmly anchors it as an Asian company towards a global ambition. The company's product pipeline potentially addresses an estimated value of 50 billion USD in the global oncology market.

Biosyngen possesses exclusive licenses and patented therapies targeting multiple solid tumors and hematological malignancies including nasopharyngeal cancer, gastric cancer, gastrointestinal cancer and EBV-positive hematological malignancies. The company's first-in-class product BRG01 was granted IND approval by US FDA and CN NMPA for Phase I/II clinical trial. BRG01, for treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma has also been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) and Fast Track Designation (FTD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In addition, BRL03, for treatment of lung cancer, has also been approved for phase I/II clinical trials by FDA; its IND application has also been accepted by NMPA Biosyngen is also one of a few biopharmaceutical companies that possess a portfolio consisting of CAR-T, TCR-T, TIL and other advanced cell therapies.

Based in Singapore and Guangzhou, Biosyngen collaborate closely with the world's leading biomedical research and clinical institutes including A*STAR, Helmholtz Zentrum Munchen, Hannover Medical School, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and a network of hospitals to advance R&D, develop products and conduct clinical trials in Singapore, Australia and China.

Through our R&D capability and translational medicine platform, Biosyngen have been able to engage the end-to-end cycle in drug development from lead identification, preclinical studies, cell production, quality control, regulatory filing, to clinical studies - integrating the entire chain of R&D, clinical trial, GMP manufacturing and commercialization.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/biosyngens-bst02-the-worlds-first-til-therapy-for-liver-cancer-is-granted-an-ind-approval-by-fda-301968656.html

SOURCE Biosyngen
Tonight on The Amazing Race, teams travel more than 2,000 miles from Vietnam to India where they must balance traditional pots on their heads while performing a folk dance and assemble a life-size, three-dimensional mural. This episode titled Yessir, the Pink City airs Wednesday, October 25 (9:30-11:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS. Phil Keoghan hosts.

CBS promises the biggest season yet, with 13 teams competing for the first time ever. We will also see the return of commercial travel, no non-elimination legs, the express pass and a twist on the infamous U-Turn! Here are the teams still in contention: Liam & Yemeri (brothers), Malaina & Andrea (best friends), Joe & Ian (engaged), Steve & Anna Leigh (father/daughter), Morgan & Lena (sisters), Ashlie & Todd (married), Robbin & Chelsea (childhood friends), Greg & John (brothers), Rob & Corey (father/son) and Joel & Garrett (best friends). See the full cast in the gallery above. Follow our live blog recap of tonights episode below.

More from GoldDerby

SEE The Amazing Races Jocelyn and Victor agree she shouldve done the Roadblock: We wouldve had a different outcome

9:30 p.m.  Previously, on The Amazing Race! In episode 4, teams continued racing in Vietnam and faced the hustle and bustle of a congested Vietnamese market, where they had to properly set up a fish stand or deliver mattresses to a local hotel. Following the Roadblock and Detour, Robbin and Chelsea leaped into first place while Jocelyn & Victor dropped from first to last and got eliminated. Lets see how things play out as the teams travel to a new country!

9:35 p.m.  Its 7 a.m. in Vietnam and Robbin and Chelsea are first to open their next clue. Theyll fly to The Pink City, 2,000 miles away in Jaipur, India. The rest of the teams are hot on their heels, but how will things play out at the airport? It looks as though all teams are boarding the same flight so the playing field has been leveled.

9:50 p.m.  Teams have landed and race to their taxis that will bring them to their next clue at the Amber Palace. Once teams reach the palace they soon realize its a steep uphill climb to the top. Joe & Ian technically arrive first, but theres a slew of teams all packed together. Its time for the Roadblock. In Whos Feeling Balanced? one member from each team must balance three bowls on their head while following a short, choreographed routine. The dancing seems easy to master for most teams, but the balancing is proving to be a real make-or-break skill this leg.

10:00 p.m.  Anna Leigh is the first to complete the routine successfully so she and her dad take over first place. Theyll now make their way to Panna Meena Ka Kund to find their next clue. Teams are quickly realizing this father/daughter duo is a team to be reckoned with and everyone agrees they need to get rid of them as soon as possible. Greg & John are the next team heading to the next clue box, jumping from eighth place to second. In third place are Morgan & Lena, which is a huge sigh of relief for these sisters who finished second to last in the previous leg of the race.

10:15 p.m.  As teams continue to struggle dancing, Steve & Anna Leigh and Greg & John realize the next clue box isnt as easy to find as theyd hoped. Theyre racing by foot throughout this village asking anyone who will listen for directions. Eventually Morgan & Lena catch up to Greg & John so they decide to work together. Steve & Anna Leigh reach the clue box first and its a Detour. In All Dolled Up, teams will make two puppets made of wooden torsos, arms stuffed with cotton, decorative robes and headwear, along with string. Once complete they must make them dance! In The Big Picture teams must imitate art and bring a masterpiece to life by incorporating themselves into a scene and finding the correct characters to match the example at their station. Steve & Anna Leigh choose to make dolls. Greg & John and Morgan & Lena choose The Big Picture. Meanwhile, at the back of the pack nobody is struggling more than Corey, who just cant seem to balance those bowls on his head.

10:30 p.m.  After 15 attempts Corey has finally finished the Roadblock so he and his dad can now head to the Detour. Its tough to know how far behind they are, but well find out soon enough. Up at the Detour, everyone has chosen The Big Picture except for Steve & Anna Leigh and Joel & Garrett, so this should be interesting to see how it plays out. Anna Leigh is frustrated with her dads doll-building skills and things dont improve when he accidentally hammers her finger. Rob & Corey finally reach the Detour and decide theyll be the third team to build puppets. Back at The Big Picture there are only six stations and Todd & Ashlie get their too late to claim one so theyll have to head to the puppet-building station as well. How much will this hiccup damage their race?

10:45 p.m.  Steve & Anna Leigh complete their puppets, put on a fun show and receive their next clue. Theyre instructed to head to the next Pit Stop at Gatore Ki Chhatriyan. The last team to arrive will be eliminated. Greg & John are next to complete the Detour and the race for first place is on! Steve & Anna Leigh reach the pit stop. As the winners of this leg they receive $3,000 each. See the full results of this leg below. Phil warns them that sometime before the next leg of the race will be the U-Turn vote. Each team must vote to slow down another team by forcing them to complete both Detours. The vote is anonymous, so nobody will know who is targeting them.

10:55 p.m.  Rob & Corey arrive at the Detour while Todd & Ashlie and Joel & Garrett are still at work. Suddenly they have hope that they can survive this leg of the race. Joel & Garrett quickly finish though, heading off to the Pit Stop. Theres still hope for Rob & Corey because it seems like the puppet Detour ended up being easier than The Big Picture. Sure enough, they make up ground and complete the Detour in sixth place. More teams finish the Detour and reach the Pit Stop (see results below). Morgan & Lena are growing frustrated. They were one of the top teams to reach the Detour theyve spent more than two hours at this mural. After yet another failed attempt they leave to make puppets. Wow! The Big Picture was a total race killer.

11:00 p.m.  In one of the most intense finishes Ive ever seen Morgan & Lenas rickshaw is passed by Joe & Ians as they race to the Pit Stop. Morgan & Lenas driver takes a turn, telling them he knows a shortcut. The shortcut pays off and Morgan & Lena arrive in 10th place! Joe & Ian arrive last and have been eliminated from the race. What a finish!

Leg 5 results:

1. Steve & Anna Leigh

2. Greg & John

3. Joel & Garrett

4. Andrea & Malaina

5. Ashlie & Todd

6. Rob & Corey

7. Robbin & Chelsea

8. Liam & Yeremi

9. Morgan & Lena

10. Joe & Ian (eliminated)

Make your predictions at Gold Derby now. Download our free and easy app for Apple/iPhone devices or Android (Google Play) to compete against legions of other fans plus our experts and editors for best prediction accuracy scores. See our latest prediction champs. Can you top our esteemed leaderboards next? Always remember to keep your predictions updated because they impact our latest racetrack odds, which terrify Hollywood chiefs and stars. Dont miss the fun. Speak up and share your huffy opinions in our famous forums where 5,000 showbiz leaders lurk every day to track latest awards buzz. Everybody wants to know: What do you think? Who do you predict and why?

Launch Gallery: 'The Amazing Race 35' cast: Meet the 13 new teams

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On July 21, 1966, the Ku Klux Klan held a rally in Overton Park. The chief speaker was Imperial Wizard Robert M. Shelton of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, who "told the crowd of about 400 Klansmen, supporters and curious onlookers to work for conservative candidates in the coming elections, according to the evening newspaper, the Memphis Press-Scimitar.

A little over a week later, on July 30, the vibe was entirely different as all the freaks in town gathered in Overton Park for the first Memphis Blues Festival, a celebration of Black musical expression that was organized by young white music lovers and that showcased such elder giants-in-our-midst as Furry Lewis, Rev. Robert Wilkins and Mississippi Fred McDowell.

As a Press-Scimitar headline about these so-called rediscovered artists explained a year later, in a paraphrase of a quote from Nesbit, Mississippi, musician Joe Callicott: The Blues Aint Been Lost, Man  They Been Right Here.

What was lost, for decades, was footage of any of the five Memphis Blues Festivals held at the Overton Park Shell from 1966 to 1970.

Also essentially missing was any serious reckoning with the racial, cultural and artistic significance of these mostly pre-Woodstock events, which eventually attracted national attention even as they remained rooted in the music of Memphis and the Delta, with lineups that included Gus Cannon, the Bar-Kays and Rufus Thomas.

A new feature documentary from director Augusta Palmer, The Blues Society digs deep into the fertile musical soil, cultural clay and, yes, literal hash  a lump of hash the size of a softball was a prime motivator, according to musician Jim Dickinson  from which the festivals sprouted.

Rich with rediscovered footage, the movie  which bills itself in an onscreen caption as "a Moving Image Mixtape"  will have its world premiere at 3 p.m. Sunday at Playhouse on the Square, on the closing day of the six-day Indie Memphis Film Festival. Palmer and other participants in the documentary will participate in a post-screening question-and-answer session, and a "Country Blues Fest Revival Concert" is set for 6 p.m. the same night at Minglewood Hall.

Palmer  whose father, the late music critic Robert Palmer, was an organizer of the blues festivals  said she has been working on her film "in earnest" for close to seven years. However, "Sometimes I Iike to joke that I've been making this movie all my life," she said, noting that her mother, whose voice is heard in the film in a recording made at the 1969 festival, was pregnant with her at the time.

Constructed by Palmer, Memphis editor Laura Jean Hocking and other collaborators from vintage and new material, "The Blues Society" may remind viewers of Questlove's "Summer of Soul," about the Harlem music festivals of the late 1960s, which last year won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. But if the Harlem concerts pointed toward an unrealized Black cultural Utopia, the Memphis events were more fraught. "The Blues Society" pays tribute to the progressive and sincere enthusiasms of the festival organizers, but it also acknowledges the paternalism inherent to the racial power dynamic that separated much of the production team and audience from many of the performers.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The film also grapples with the legacy of the events, which set the stage for the Memphis in May Beale Street Music Festival and other attempts to capitalize on an art form that largely was born from what Palmer calls "pain and hurt and really hard lives," however joyous its expression and tourist-friendly its framing.

Whatever caveats accompany reminiscences of the festivals, "There was a camaraderie and a humanity that got shared that was above and beyond the ordinary," remembers Memphis musician Jimmy Crosthwait, in the film. "It was transcendental, in a sense."

MEMPHIS MUSIC ICONS: Meet the titans and pioneers of the blues, the city's defining genre

The Memphis Blues Festival (sometimes billed as the Memphis Country Blues Festival) initially was organized by a loose coalition of blues devotees and proto-hippies from Memphis, Little Rock and New York. These allies were gripped by what the late Memphis art-inciter Randall Lyon describes in the film as eroico furore: "We had poetic fury." "We want to preserve these musical forms so that the Memphis sound will still live," the festival organizers wrote, in a mission statement.

Drawing shaved-head military enlistees as well as what Robert Palmer called "all the freaks in town" to see musicians who in some cases had been forgotten since their 1920s recordings, the events weren't highly profitable but were successful enough to earn favorable local and eventually national coverage from Rolling Stone magazine, New York public television station WNET and former "Tonight Show" host Steve Allen. But the festivals seemed to be more or less forgotten until Memphis writer/historian Robert Gordon devoted a chapter of his seminal music history book "It Came from Memphis" to the events.

Augusta Palmer, 53, first became interested in the festivals because of the involvement of her father and her mother, Mary Branton. Her documentary might not have been possible, however, if Maryland blues archivist Gene Rosenthal hadn't held onto some 17 hours of footage and 33 hours of audiotape from the 1969 festival, which he and a crew had shot for WNET.

Stored and forgotten in Rosenthal's basement, the footage first was exhumed for a 2019 documentary, Los Angeles director Joe LaMattina's "Memphis '69," produced for Fat Possum Records (and available for free on the label's YouTube channel). An almost fly-on-the-wall (weevil-in-the-park?) concert film, "Memphis '69" functions as a complement to Palmer's film, which provides history and context the other movie lacks.

"I was always a little more interested in the idea of a film that was about the time, and understanding what went on," said Palmer, whose previous movies include "The Hand of Fatima," a 2009 documentary centered on Morocco's Master Musicians of Joujouka, a Sufi trance band.

Augusta Palmer, director of "The Blues Society."

Born in Little Rock, Palmer has lived in Memphis on occasion (she attended Rhodes College for a year), but has mostly been based in New York. She earned a Ph.D. from New York University for a dissertation on 1990s Chinese cinema; now, she is a professor of filmmaking and media studies at St. Francis College in Brooklyn.

MEMPHIS MUSIC HISTORY: From Elvis to B.B. King, take a Memphis music history tour with stops at these statues

As a result of this geography, the experience of making "The Blues Society" echoed that of the festivals' original curators, as Palmer traveled back and forth from Brooklyn to Memphis to investigate the blues, with the help of people who were at the festival as well as younger cultural critics and scholars.

She also corralled footage from past interviews with folks who had passed away, such as Lyon and Dickinson. Said Palmer: "Things were hectic and there were a lot of drugs done, so I'm surprised anybody remembered anything."

Walter "Furry" Lewis offstage during a Memphis Blues Festival performance.

Among the younger people who appear in "The Blues Society" are sociologist Zandria Robinson, who addresses the "power dynamic" that accompanies "cross-racial" collaborations, and writer Jamey Hatley, who questions why she used to feel "a little embarrassed" by the blues ("Me hating the blues is like a fish hating water"). Meanwhile, white blues acolyte Zeke Johnson acknowledges there was a "paternalistic" element to the white embrace of certain ancient-seeming and uneducated country blues artists.

Overall, however, the message is pro-Memphis, at least in its role as a crucible of art. As Memphis Blues Festival attendee John Larkin says in the movie: "All the hell Memphis has done is taught people how to talk, dance and play music  and we still do that."

'The Blues Society' at the Indie Memphis Film Festival

World premiere of "The Blues Society"  3 p.m. Sunday, Playhouse on the Square, 60 Cooper. Director Augusta Palmer and others will participate in a post-film Q&A. Tickets: $12. (The movie also can be screened online Oct. 24-29 by those who purchase access to the "virtual" festival.)

"Country Blues Fest Revival Concert"  doors open at 5 p.m, show starts at 6, 1555 Minglewood Hall. Carrying on in the traditions of their Mississippi musical forebearers, Sharde Thomas (granddaughter of fife master Othar Turner) and her Rising Stars fife-and-drum band will perform, along with the Wilkins Sisters (daughters of Rev. John Wilkins). Tickets: $33.55, or free to festival passholders.

For passes, tickets to other events, and a full Indie Memphis schedule, visit indiememphis.org.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: 'The Blues Society' chronicles Memphis Blues Festivals of the 1960s
Bryan Kohberger, who has been charged with the brutal killings of four University of Idaho students last November, is set to appear in court on Thursday, October 26. Kohberger and his defense counsel previously filed a motion to dismiss the indictment, alleging a biased jury and a lack of evidence.

The alleged killer will appear in court twice on the same day for two hearings. The first hearing will occur at 9:30 a.m. and be closed to the public. He will reappear in court for a second hearing at 1 p.m. that will be open to the public. Both hearings are to address the grand jury indictment from May.

Bryan Kohbergers defense wants the murder indictment thrown out

According to KING-TV, court documents noted that Bryan Kohberger and his defense specified that a biased grand jury, inadmissible evidence, lack of sufficient evidence, and prosecutorial misconduct in withholding exculpatory evidence were the grounds for the first, sealed hearing. The second, open hearing will include error in grand jury instructions as grounds to dismiss the indictment.

The defense further stated their wishes to either have the indictment thrown out or have a preliminary hearing in its place. Police arrested the suspected killer in December 2022 from his familys Pennsylvania home. Since his arrest at the beginning of this year, he remains in custody at the Latah County Jail.

Bryan Kohberger allegedly stabbed four University of Idaho students to death in an off-campus home on November 13, 2022. The victims were Ethan Chapin, Kaylee Goncalves, Xana Kernodle, and Madison Mogen.

NPR reported that Idaho authorities discovered a DNA sample on a leather knife sheath that they found in one of the victims beds. This sample appears to closely resemble Kohbergers DNA. The 28-year-old was a criminology Ph.D. student at nearby Washington State University. He now faces four counts of first-degree murder charge, along with one count of felony burglary.

The post Bryan Kohberger Hearing: Defense Files Motion to Dismiss Murder Indictment in Idaho Murders appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Dia de los Muertos events at Mitchell Park Domes, Forest Home Cemetery

There are several events in Milwaukee marking Dia de los Muertos this weekend. Among them:

The Friends of The Domes' Dia de los Muertos celebration is from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 27 at the Mitchell Park Domes , 524 S. Layton Blvd., with mariachi music, dancers, vendors, food and more. Admission (purchased in advance only) is $16, $13 for Friends of Domes members. Info and registration: milwaukeedomes.org.

Forest Home Cemetery's Dia de los Muertos Festival formally starts at 10 a.m. Oct. 28, with mariachi music, dancers, altars and ofrendas and more. Admission is free. Info: foresthomecemetery.com.

RELATED: Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at these events in the Milwaukee area in 2023

Asian Moon Festival & Halloween Extravaganza

The Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce hosts its Asian Moon Festival & Halloween Extravaganza from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 29 at the Italian Community Center, 631 E. Chicago St. Mooncake tasting, tea ceremony demonstrations, Asian dance performances (including a Chinese lion dance) and more are on the program. Tickets start at $20. Info: 2023 Asian Moon Festival & Halloween Extravaganza Facebook event page.

Hallowings in Greendale

Hallowings 2023 features kite-flying, free pumpkin-carving, pumpkin bowling, music and more in Greendale's Gazebo Park, 5798 Broad St., through Oct. 29. Admission is free. Info: giftofwingslanding.com.

Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee in Red Arrow Park

The second annual Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee haunts Red Arrow Park, 920 N. Water St., from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 28. The first 500 guests can pick out a free pumpkin. There's also live music, food, a book sale and, at 12:30 p.m. a kids costume parade. Admission is free. Info: milwaukeedowntown.com.

Don't forget: Trick or treat is this weekend (for most cities)

Yes, Halloween technically is Oct. 31. But many communities have their official trick-or-treat times this weekend, with a number following Milwaukee's lead, holding it from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 29. Check the link below for your community's time.

RELATED: Wisconsin's favorite Halloween candy? Same as it's been, but now other states agree, too

RELATED: Here are trick-or-treat times, days for Milwaukee area communities in 2023

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Dia de los Muertos events, more things to do in Milwaukee this weekend
A now-dead Arkansas man has been linked to the grisly double murder of his son and daughter, who were stabbed to death with a butter knife more than 42 years ago.

Weldon Alexander was identified as the suspect in the deaths of 13-year-old Gordon Alexander and 14-year-old Karen Alexander, who were brutally murdered in 1981, the Texarkana Arkansas Police Department announced on October 12.

RELATED: Police Hunt Armed and Dangerous Massachusetts Air Force Vet Wanted for Allegedly Gunning Down Wife

After reviewing your comprehensive report and meeting with you personally to discuss the case, your findings and theories, it is my opinion that Weldon Alexander, father to Karen Alexander and Gordon Alexander, is the sole, viable suspect in their murder, Miller County Prosecuting Attorney Connie Mitchell wrote in a letter to Texarkana police, KSLA reported. I believe probable cause exists for the issuance of a warrant for two counts of capital murder."

Alexander died in 2014, prosecutors said. Officials didnt disclose the nature of his death. The house where the slayings occurred was since demolished.

Unfortunately, his death prohibits me from seeking a warrant for his arrest for the offenses of capital murder," Mitchell added. "Sadly, he will never face an earthly judge or jury to answer for his crimes.

How did Gordon and Karen Alexander die?

On April 8, 1981, Gordon and Karen were found suffering from stab wounds at their Texarkana, Arkansas house at around 7:15 a.m. Theyd both been attacked with a butter knife, according to police. Gordons body was found in the kitchen. Karen, who initially survived the attack, was found on a bed. She later died in hospital after spending three days in a coma. Officials said shed been raped.

RELATED: Woman Arrested after Mother Found Dead and Cops Found Evidence That Pair Discussed Killing Mom's Husband

In the immediate aftermath of the siblings murders, authorities struggled to zero in on a possible suspect. Alexander had told detectives at the time that hed discovered his son and daughter had been stabbed after returning home from working a night shift at a local tire shop. He claimed to have arrived home and found the door ajar, before first finding Gordon, and later, Karen. There were no other signs of forced entry, according to investigators.

Alexander also divulged to officers that he later dislodged a kitchen knife from his daughters body, which hed later placed on a nearby bookshelf, according to a Texarkana Police Department press release. He was never arrested. At the time of the double homicide, the children's mother had been hospitalized, according to KSLA.

The investigation was also hindered by a false confession by a man named Henry Lee Lucas, the so-called Confession Killer. Lucas, however, who would go on to confess to hundreds of cold case murders around the U.S., was never charged due to a lack of any evidence tying him to the siblings murders. DNA later ruled out his involvement in the case.

For more than four decades, however, justice proved elusive, and the case went cold.

RELATED: Former MLB Pitcher Arrested in Connection to Father-in-Law's Murder, Mother-in-Law's Attempted Murder

For decades TAPD detectives have combed through the case files time and again searching for anything that could lead to the identity of a suspect and bring some resolution to the many lives impacted by this crime, Texarkana, Arkansas Police Chief Michael Kramm said. Although 42 years have passed since the slaying, we have now identified a lone suspect in this heinous case.

Authorities re-opened the case file into Gordon and Karens murders last year. Dozens of people were interviewed in law enforcements renewed efforts to pinpoint the teens' killer. In conjunction with forensic scientists at the Arkansas State Crime Lab, DNA profiles for both siblings were entered into the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS).

Cold case investigators would ultimately extract DNA from fingernail tissue from both children, which suggested a familial relationship in the DNA, according to People. Further analysis revealed that Alexanders semen was found on Karen's sheets, authorities stated. Additional forensic evidence pulled from dried blood found on both teens' hands contained fibers, as well as brass, copper and zinc  all elemental materials that would have been present at the tire shop where their father worked, according to People.

RELATED: Natalee Holloway's Mom Says Daughter "Fought Like Hell" Before Joran van der Sloot Killed Her

Authorities now suspect that Alexander sexually assaulted Karen and that he later killed his son when he attempted to intervene and stop the attack.

It is our hope that the friends and remaining family of Gordon and Karen Alexander may find some peace in knowing that scientific and circumstantial evidence has been revealed sufficient to resolve this 42-year-old case, Kramm added. We wish to express our greatest appreciation to the team of retired Texarkana Arkansas police Capt. Calvin Seward, Dr. Todd Steffy of the Arkansas State Police Cold Case Unit, Kelly Dixon of the Arkansas State Crime Lab and so many other detectives, police officers, concerned citizens and advocacy groups who provided information and assistance in this case.

For some investigators on the case, bringing a sense of closure to the investigation  and honoring the Alexander childrens memories along the way  was personal.

I kept a picture of the kids right above my desk and I would look at them and I would go right to the photos and look at those kids, said Texarkana Police Capt. Calvin Seward, who was a patrolman in his 30s at the time of the Alexander murders. It would break your heart. I got kids the same age; my daughter was a classmate of Karen.
The trailer for a new documentary about the dangers of fentanyl includes video of two paramedics saving 19-year-old Leander resident Tucker Roe from his first overdose of the drug in March 2021. Tucker has an oxygen mask over his face and his mother, Stefanie Turner, is holding his hand in the clip. "C'mon Tuck," she says. "Momma needs you, baby."

She later explains in the trailer that she videotaped the scene so Tucker could see "how awful and scary it was." The documentary, called "F.U.: Fentanyl Unlimited," is being screened Oct. 17-24 at the Flix Brewhouse, 2200 Interstate 35 South in Round Rock, said the director, Charlie Minn. It also will be shown Oct. 18 in other places across the country, including New York City.

The film, based in Texas, includes interviews with families whose teenage children have died from fentanyl overdoses and interviews with investigators, sheriffs and medics, Minn said during an interview earlier this month.

The film is showing at Lubbock's Premiere Cinema, with multiple screenings listed daily into next week, according to the theater.

Stefanie Tucker looks down at a picture of her son, Tucker, taken two weeks before his death from a fentanyl overdose. Video of paramedics saving Tucker from his first overdose is featured in a new documentary called u0022F.U.: Fentanyl Unlimited.u0022

Fact-check: Is fentanyl the leading cause of death among American adults?

Minn, who is based in Manhattan, said he became interested in raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl after making 11 films inside "the Mexican war zone."

"Studying drug cartels is something I've been doing for a very long time," Minn said. Most of the illegal fentanyl is being smuggled into Texas and the rest of the United States by Mexican cartels, he said.

In the trailer for his film, there is a clip of President Joe Biden saying 70,000 Americans die a year from fentanyl overdoses. Minn said one out of every four Texans has overdosed on an opioid or knows someone who has, a statistic that has been confirmed by the Texas Workforce Commission.

"That's alarming and disgusting," Minn said. "Fentanyl is a poison. Fentanyl is murder."

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is sometimes prescribed legally for pain management, but it can be fatal when used illegally because even small amounts can kill a person.

It is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. One illegal counterfeit pill can contain a deadly amount of fentanyl, officials have said.

Counterfeit pills marketed as opioids but laced with fentanyl have been contributing to recent overdose deaths across the Central Texas area and the country. National drug experts have said fentanyl is often used in pills because it is highly addictive and cheap.

Charlie Minn said he became interested in raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl after making 11 films about Mexican drug cartels.

At least six students in the Hays County school district have died from fentanyl-related overdoses at home since July 2022. The Hays County sheriff's office also is investigating the death of a 15-year-old student at his home as a suspected fentanyl poisoning, said district spokesman Tim Savoy. School officials also had to administer the anti-overdose drug Narcan seven times last year on campus to reverse student overdoses and three times this year, he said.

Minn said that cartels in Mexico control the border, and that trafficking in fentanyl is a billion-dollar operation.

"Americans have to wake up to the tragedy. I would say more than half don't even know they are taking it because it's being laced into pills," he said.

Stefanie Turner said her son thought he was taking a Xanax to help with pain from a broken hand when she videotaped his first overdose in March 2021. The pill that he bought from a friend turned out to be laced with fentanyl, she said.

She started crying as she said that she knew that including the video in the film of him being saved from an overdose was "absolutely showing Tucker at his worst point." She said she did it to try to save other children's lives.

Tucker went to a treatment program after his first overdose and helped other teens with their addictions, his mother said. He had graduated from Leander High School, was working at his father's construction company and was planning to run a triathlon when he purchased another pill on Instagram that was sold as Percocet, she said. He had been stressed out trying to figure out what he wanted to do with his life, his mother said.

More: Leander teen's death leads to bill that would require fentanyl education in Texas schools

Stefanie Turner's son, Tucker Roe, died from his second accidental overdose of fentanyl. After his death she helped get a bill passed that requires annual fentanyl education for students in grades 6-12 in Texas public schools.

The pill turned out to be laced with illegal fentanyl, she said. It killed Tucker Roe on Sept. 23, 2021.

"The perception that children have is 'it wont happen to me,'" Stefanie Tucker said. "I think Tucker thought that, too. I dont think he thought he was going to die from taking that pill."

Stefanie Tucker started a nonprofit called Texas Against Fentanyl after her son's death. The group includes about 90 mothers in the Central Texas area who have lost their children to fentanyl overdoses. Texas Against Fentanyl helped get a bill called "Tucker's Law" passed this year that requires 10 hours of education annually about the dangers of fentanyl and drug poisoning for students in the sixth grade through high school in Texas public schools.

The group has used its funds to develop a curriculum to educate middle school students about the dangers of fentanyl, but it still needs to raise money to develop education material specific to high school students, said Joanne Crownover, who also is featured in the documentary.

Her 18-year-old daughter, Savannah Renee Crownover, who attended Lake Travis High School, died of an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2021.

Crownover said in an interview that her daughter had been accepted to the University of Texas, where she was planning to pursue a degree in writing and communication.

"She wrote such a compelling essay about her struggle with anxiety that they accepted her," said her mother.

Savannah Crownover went to therapy and was doing well until she had a bad day on March 21, 2021, her mother said. Joanne Crownover said she and her husband hung out with their daughter that day for an hour. When they left, she was laughing, her mother said.

But Savannah bought what she thought was a Xanax on her way home from work to help her sleep, her mother said. She hugged her parents when she got home and then went to her room. The pill turned out to be laced with a deadly amount of fentanyl, Joanne Crownover said.

"My husband found her in the morning, and it was devastating," said Crownover. "The police said she was probably dead within a minute from taking the pill."

She died one week before her high school graduation, her mother said.

The fentanyl documentary also has interviews with families from other parts of Texas, including a Brownsville family whose son died after buying fentanyl that turned out to be deadly from a pharmacy in Mexico, Minn said.

He said he hopes his film motivates people to take action by posting their concerns about fentanyl on social media.

"I wish people would post more about that than what Kylie Jenner is doing," he said "It's all fun and entertaining, but I think there should be more focus on fentanyl."

u0022Americans have to wake up to the tragedy. I would say more than half don't even know they are taking it because it's being laced into pills,u0022 filmmaker Charlie Minn said of fentanyl.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Fentanyl documentary includes Central Texas parents who lost children
Edward Theodore Gein AKA Ed Gein was not an ordinary serial killer. His methods of killing and overall behavior are often considered absurd and abnormal. Not only did he kill people, but he was even known to be a body snatcher. He often used to rob graves and keep the remains of their bodies at his home. He even made household items from the bones and skins of the corpses.

Ed Gein usually operated in Plainfield, in the state of Wisconsin. Gein is known for the brutal murders of two women, Mary Hogan and Bernice Worden. However, it is suspected that this deranged man might have been involved in several other killings.

The fascination for Ed Gein eventually led directors to create a number of films about his life and upbringing. Here are some of them.

1. Psycho

Psycho was directed by Alfred Hitchcock and released in the year 1960. Just like Ed Gein, the antagonist of the film, Norman Bates, shares an unhealthy obsession with his mother. Both Bates and his real-life counterpart used to dress up like their respective mothers and take part in brutal killings.

According to IMDb, the synopsis of the film reads,

A Phoenix secretary embezzles $40,000 from her employers client, goes on the run, and checks into a remote motel run by a young man under the domination of his mother.

Psycho starred Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, and several others.

2. The Silence of the Lambs

While Psycho only looks slightly inspired by Ed Geins life, The Silence of the Lambs almost replicates the killing methods of the real-life psychopath. This film is about the hunt for a serial killer Buffalo Bill who abducts women, kills them, and wears their skin and hair. To accomplish this goal, an FBI trainee seeks the help of Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist and also an imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer.

According to IMDb, the synopsis of the film reads,

A young F.B.I. cadet must receive the help of an incarcerated and manipulative cannibal killer to help catch another serial killer, a madman who skins his victims.

Jonathan Demme directed it while its screenplay was written by Ted Tally. It starred Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, and several others.

3. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Although The Texas Chainsaw Massacre has a number of reboots and sequels, the original 1974 release will always be a classic. Its writer Kim Henkel compared its antagonist with Ed Gein and admitted that he thoroughly studied the case of the psychopath.

The villain, Leatherface, wore human faces during his crimes. This is something Ed Gein would do from time to time.

According to IMDb, the synopsis of the film reads,

Five friends head out to rural Texas to visit the grave of a grandfather. On the way they stumble across what appears to be a deserted house, only to discover something sinister within. Something armed with a chainsaw.

While Kim Henkel and Tobe Hooper were involved in its direction, writing, and production, its cast was led by Marilyn Burns, Allen Danziger, Paul A. Partain, Gunnar Hansen, and several others.

The post Ed Gein Movies: Texas Chainsaw Massacre, the Silence of the Lambs & More appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
While Genting Singapore Limited (SGX:G13) might not be the most widely known stock at the moment, it received a lot of attention from a substantial price movement on the SGX over the last few months, increasing to S$0.95 at one point, and dropping to the lows of S$0.82. 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 Genting Singapore's current trading price of S$0.88 reflective of the actual value of the mid-cap? Or is it currently undervalued, providing us with the opportunity to buy? Lets take a look at Genting Singapores outlook and value based on the most recent financial data to see if there are any catalysts for a price change.

View our latest analysis for Genting Singapore

What Is Genting Singapore Worth?

According to my price multiple model, which makes a comparison between the company's price-to-earnings ratio and the industry average, the stock price seems to be justfied. In this instance, Ive used the price-to-earnings (PE) ratio given that there is not enough information to reliably forecast the stocks cash flows. I find that Genting Singapores ratio of 19.84x is trading in-line with its industry peers ratio, which means if you buy Genting Singapore today, youd be paying a relatively reasonable price for it. Furthermore, Genting Singapores share price also seems relatively stable compared to the rest of the market, as indicated by its low beta. This may mean it is less likely for the stock to fall lower from natural market volatility, which suggests less opportunities to buy moving forward.

What does the future of Genting Singapore look like?

Investors looking for growth in their portfolio may want to consider the prospects of a company before buying its shares. 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. Genting Singapore's earnings over the next few years are expected to increase by 32%, 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 already priced in G13s positive outlook, with shares trading around industry price multiples. However, there are also other important factors which we havent considered today, such as the financial strength of the company. Have these factors changed since the last time you looked at G13? Will you have enough confidence to invest in the company should the price drop below the industry PE ratio?

Are you a potential investor? If youve been keeping tabs on G13, now may not be the most optimal time to buy, given it is trading around industry price multiples. However, the optimistic forecast is encouraging for G13, which means its worth further examining other factors such as the strength of its balance sheet, in order to take advantage of the next price drop.

So while earnings quality is important, it's equally important to consider the risks facing Genting Singapore at this point in time. For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign that you should run your eye over to get a better picture of Genting Singapore.

If you are no longer interested in Genting Singapore, 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.
It happens every time. I go through the list of 100-plus breweries planning to attend the next Michigan Brewers Guild seasonal beer festival, marking down the beers I want to try ... and I come across a name I don't recognize.

"What is this brewery?" I ask myself. I check out their website and social media pages. A lot of times, it's a brewery that just opened or is expanding its presence. Other times, it's a brewery that's been around for years and I feel like I've been living under a rock.

Looking at the lineup for this year's festival, Saturday at Detroit's Eastern Market, this happened multiple times. It felt borderline embarrassing. As the resident craft beer writer at the Free Press, I should probably have more of a pulse on all the new breweries opening across the state. But there are more than 400 operating microbreweries in the state, and more are opening at a rapid pace, even as the broader craft beer market in the United States has gone stagnant.

Take metro Detroit, for instance. You've got Heights Brewing, which plans to open later this year in Farmington (delayed from its target September opening). There are also plans for a new brewery in Corktown, called Six Spoke Brewery, and in Troy, called Stumblebum Beer Co., opening in 2024.

All of this reminds me why I love attending beer festivals across Michigan. It's the greatest way to meet new brewers, try new beers and take note of new destinations to stop by the next time I'm traveling around the state.

In light of that, I've compiled 5 breweries to stop by at Saturday's Fall Beer Festival, plus 20 beers to look out for, based on the list provided by the Michigan Brewers Guild. Keep in mind, I haven't tried all of these, so I can't guarantee they're good. But based on what I know about the breweries, the styles and the flavor profiles, you likely won't be disappointed. And if you are? Slam it or pour it out and find the next beer to try. It's a beer festival! Make the experience your own. As always, though, please drink responsibly.

A beer at a Michigan Brewers Guild beer festival.

2023 Fall Beer Festival breweries to visit

Great White Buffalo Brewing Co. (Northville)  Opened in 2023 by brothers Eric and Ryan Sokoloski and business partner John Skrabal, Great White Buffalo took a former yogurt shop space in downtown Northville and turned it into a elegant brewpub with a wide variety of lagers and ales. Some of that variety will be on display Saturday; Great White Buffalo will sling an amber ale, a chocolate mint stout, a coconut coffee blonde and People's Champ American IPA at Fall Beer Festival.

Kognisjon Bryggeri (Marquette)  If you're familiar with the Upper Peninsula beer scene, you might remember Cognition Brewing Co. inside Ishpeming's historic Mather Inn. Well, owner Jay Clancey moved his brewing operation to a new location on Marquette's Third Street, using the Norwegian spelling of the brewery for a fresh start, earlier this year. Kognisjon will have six beers on tap Saturday, including the Cassephalopod Rocky Road Imperial Stout, Geist Boo Berry Cereal Sour (yes, really) and The Hollow Pumpkin Spiced Amber.

River Trade Brewing Co. (Constantine)  Remember what I said about coming across brewery names I didn't recognize? River Trade was admittedly one of them. It did open just last year, at the former Constantine Brewing Co. location on 145 Washington St., by co-owners Brandon and Ashley Magnus. Each of the four beers they'll feature Saturday have solid Untappd ratings: Well Known Ghosts American IPA, Anamorph New England IPA, Blackberry Sour and Sunloather Dark Lager.

Schoolcraft Brewery (Livonia)  More than 110 breweries will be at Fall Beer Fest, but none are like Schoolcraft, where every beer is brewed by students of Schoolcraft College's unique Brewing & Distillation Technology program. A friend of mine exchanged a can of the program's Hefeweizen earlier this year and it was delicious. While that won't be available Saturday, Schoolcraft will have its 275 Kolsch, College Pale Ale, Haggerty IPA and Schwarzbier on tap.

Someday Brewing (Grosse Pointe Woods)  One of metro Detroit's newest breweries, Someday gets its name from the fact that owner and head brewer Anthony Kilimas had been brewing beer since 2008 and would always say "someday" when people asked him when he'd open his own brewery. That day is finally here. Someday will have five beers available Saturday, including the Coffee at Midnight imperial stout, CzechMate pilsner, Oktoberfest, Stained Glass American IPA and Riwaka Haze New England IPA.

The Michigan Brewers Guild's Detroit Fall Beer Festival in 2019.

2023 Fall Beer Festival beers to try

If you go: 2023 Michigan Brewers Guild Fall Beer Festival

When: 1-6 p.m. Saturday. (MBG Enthusiast members can enter the festival one hour before general admission each day.)

Where: Eastern Market, Detroit

Tickets: $55 in advance ($65 day of, if available). Each ticket comes with 15 tokens for 3-ounce beer samples. Purchase tickets here.

Why: The Michigan Brewers Guild hosts seasonal beer festivals every year, including the Winter Beer Festival in Grand Rapids (February), the Spring Beer Festival in Traverse City (May), the Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti (July) and two Fall Beer Festivals, one in Marquette (September) and one in Detroit (October). These festivals offer the guild's many member breweries a chance to expose their offerings to beer enthusiasts, especially those that don't distribute their beer across the state.

More information: See the FAQ here.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Fall Beer Festival 2023: Breweries, beers to try
If Robert Finley had been Noah  you know, the one called by God to build the Ark  he would have done things differently. Many things dont make sense, but it makes all the sense in the world, he says, ever-the storyteller. Even him building the Ark up on top of a mountain wouldve been crazy to me, because I wouldve built it downwhere the water is. As the Bibleand now Robertdescribes, naysayers looked on, watching Noah complete this insane and impossible task. But he did what God said he do, Robert explains. Noah kept on, the rain came, so did the animals, two-by-two. Dogs went back to chasing rabbits, probably when they got where they were going, but on the ship, the dog wasnt running [after] the rabbit, the dog wouldnt fight with the cat. The cat wasnt trying to eat the rat. Everything got along. Robert figures, with everything so harmonious, Noah must have had some music on that boat.

More from Spin:

Now 69 years old, Robert himself knows a thing or two about conquering the impossibleand keeping the faith. The last time we spoke was on the verge of the May 2021 release of Sharecroppers Son, his autobiographical, funky country-soul album, its musical stories inspired by his early life in rural Louisiana, one of eight children who grew up picking cotton as soon as he was old enough to walk. An Army veteran and skilled carpenter, it wasnt until he lost his eyesight in his 60s that Robert devoted his life fully to his music, a passion that began as a boy when he purchased a guitar with money his father gave him for new shoes.

His June 2021 cover story was a first for both of us here at SPIN. Sharecroppers Son was one of the most lauded releases of 2021.

On this mid-October afternoon, hes excited to finally share his newest album upon its October 27th release. As with Sharecroppers Son, Black Bayou is produced by Dan Auerbach, their fourth together, its stories reflective of Roberts Louisiana life now. Black Bayou is definitive Robert Finleya master musician and entertainertaking all his bluesy swagger up a notch, a bigger sound with heavier grooves, full confirmation that Robert Finley only gets better with time.

Everything that I dreamed of or prayed for, its coming to pass, he says. God knows how many [people] got different beliefs, but if you can get 10,000 people or 20,000 people to dance in the streets together with Grandma and Grandpa, and the kids and the grandkids all dancing to the same music, thats a miracle. You have not only brought nationalities together and you have brought different races together, but you brought also three generations together. In Roberts case, four generations: him, his kids, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildrenhis daughter and granddaughter singing background on the album. If you got a chance to speak to the world, then you need to say something positive, he says.

Since 2021, Roberts career has skyrocketed, but much of his life revolves around the same grounding themes of music, family, and faith. For over 30 years, hes called the tiny Louisiana town of Bernice (a stones throw from the Arkansas border) his home, its local church a place where he can share music, family, and faith with his community. I play for the church, been playing for the same church for 21 years now, and I still play for that church, he says, stating that the only reason why Im having the success that Im having is because of my faith. I still had to give the credit to the good Lord because its a miracle, it is a blessing. His faith and his involvement with his church is even more important now, because hes reaping the harvest. They say youre going to reap what you sow.

Black Bayous seventh track, Nobody Wants to Be Lonely, carries a critical message. [It] was written for people like that that dont have nobody they can really depend on, Robert explains. Kids drop their parents off at the nursing home. They get the power of attorney, they sell all their stuff, and then they wait for the insurance money. That song was written to be an eye-opener, so maybe some of your kids or grandkids will feel guilty and go see about grandma or go see about grandpa. Its an eye-opener.

Even on the song, What Goes Around Comes Around Whatever youre doing, its going to come back. I tell the kids all the time, Be careful how you treat the elderly because thats your final destination. Aint but one way for you to keep from getting old, and thats to die young. Who wants to do that?

Not every song has such deep meaning. The last track, Alligator Bait, a reimagined tale of a child being used as, you guessed it, bait for an alligator, is a tribute to the lore that exists within families. That was my version of sitting down talking, listening to my dad and my uncles talk because I never met my grandpa, Robert says. They used to laugh about stuff like that. Theyre like, I dont really think hebut they used to hunt alligators and stuff. That was from listening to them. Like I said, I got that little theory that I would make a joke about it because I never, in real-life, met my grandpa.

NormallyI try to stick to the truth.

(Credit: Jim Herrington)

Truth, faith, and family? I want to nominate you for President, Robert, I say, quickly recalling Clintons 92 sax solo on the Arsenio Hall Show and Obamas bluesy Sweet Home Chicago at a White House fundraising event. Maybe a musician is what America needs to soothe the savage beast?

He chuckles. Somebody got to tell the truth, he says. Im not a politician, so I dont have to lie to get no vote. I can tell the truth. If they want to hear the truth, the truth would set them free.

Then reality going to kick in. Then it is what it is.

Hes afraid that when the new album comes out, he might get kicked out of the church. They either going to kick me out or they going to promote me in, he says. Black Bayous Gospel Blues is for all those people that try to be holier than everybody else. They going to save the world, but they going to lose their soul because they like to look down on people. Many people, they get a little pat on the back or get a little recognition, all of a sudden, they [think theyre] better than everybody else. They dont even fool with the people they grew up with no more. They better. They want to build a three-story house and look down out the window on everybody.

Roberts message: Stay focused and stay humble. The same people that voted you in can vote you out. The higher you put yourself up, the further you going to have to fall back down because what goes up must come down.

For the record, he doesnt care what society thinks of him, because they dont have a heaven or hell to put me in. They can try to send me there. They can tell me to go to hell, but they cant make me go. He believes his humility will be his saving grace. I just want to say I made a difference in this world. At least somebody told the truth, and somebody used their gifts in the right direction.

Today, the 2019 Americas Got Talent semi-finalist is building a studio on his home property for young people that got talent. Aside from fostering young musicians, its a place to create both opportunity, as well as community. Everybody needs everybody, he says. The record labels, they need talented artists thats willing to work and perform. The artists need people to get them the recognition they need. Its all about working together. I need the record label, and the record label need people like me, just like I need people like them. Then like you, I need people like you that concerned enough to write about my dream and publish it. Then you need people thats got a dream worth writing about.

(Credit: Jim Herrington)

Honesty, a trait traditionally top-rated for both politics and church, is the very same trait that he feels might alienate him from both. If he cant solve Americas problems, hell start with his local church  and get wine back into the challises. I complained because they took the real wine out and put the grape juice in, he says. Im like, If God didnt want nobody to drink wine, why would Jesus turn the water into wine? He laughs, but hes quite serious about this, feeling it compromises the parishioners in so many ways. [Who] wouldnt get up on Sunday morning, and go to church if he know he going to get a glass of free wine? He might come for the wine, but he might get saved. Anything could happen. A miracle could happen for him while he there.

There is nothing in the Bible that said you shouldnt drink, dont drink. Thats a man -made thing, because he couldnt handle his liquor. Now Noah got drunk and he saved mankind. After the flood, he got drunk, but he did everything God told him to do. Then he had a drink, he deserved that drink.

I say crazy things, but they make sense to me.

Like Noah, Robert built something big and wondrous out of an improbable calling. While hes grateful for all his success, he still has dreams. Those dreams give him purpose. If you ever accomplish all your missions, then theres no purpose. Theres nothing worth living for, he tells me. No matter what I accomplish, I try to have something bigger and better and plan to keep my dream alive Im grateful for everything thats happened in my music career, but Im still a dreamer.

To see our running list of the top 100 greatest rock stars of all time, click here.
The former child star was arrested on July 28 with fourth-degree felony assault, third-degree robbery and harassment

Jim Smeal/BEI/Shutterstock Zachery Ty Bryan

Zachery Ty Bryan will be serving jail time after pleading guilty to felony assault.

Bryan, best known for his role on Home Improvement, appeared in court in Oregon on Wednesday afternoon to answer for his fourth-degree felony assault, third-degree robbery and harassment charges following his July 28 arrest.

In a statement shared with PEOPLE, Lane Countys chief deputy district attorney, Chris Parosa, confirmed that the former child actor, 42, pled guilty to felony assault in the fourth degree constituting domestic violence in his court appearance.

According to Parosa, Bryans second count has been dismissed as a term of a negotiated resolution. Instead of facing 19-20 months of jail time, he received a downward dispositional departure to 36 months of supervised probation, 7 days jail, standard domestic violence conditions, no contact with the victim without the probation officers approval," Parosa said,



Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic Zachery Ty Bryan

Related: 'Home Improvement' Alum Zachery Ty Bryan Released from Jail After Felony Assault Arrest, Charges

He will also be required to seek treatment for his alcohol/substance abuse issues and refrain from using alcohol or drugs," per Parosa.

If the television personality were to violate any terms of his deal, he will be subject to serving the 19-20 months of prison time the court suspended.

Bryan's attorney, John Kolego of Kolego & Kraushaar, did not respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. In a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, Kolego said: "Mr. Bryan decided to accept this resolution and admit that he recklessly caused physical injury to his domestic partner to avoid further trauma to his family so they could move on and heal."

Related: Home Improvement's Zachery Ty Bryan Felt Like 'a Cow Going to the Slaughterhouse' on Comedown from Teen Fame

Back in July, the Eugene Police Department issued a statement to PEOPLE regarding Bryans arrest.

"At around 6:00 p.m. on July 28, Eugene Police received report of a physical dispute between a male and adult female at a north Eugene residence, the statement read. The dispute was reported to have occurred several hours prior and the suspect, identified as Zachery Ty Bryan, age 41, of Laguna Beach, California, had left the location."

"Eugene Police subsequently contacted Bryan in the area. Bryan was lodged at Lane County Jail on a charge of Assault in the Fourth Degree APA (Abuse Prevention Act)," it concluded.

Following the news, Bryans fiancee, Johnnie Faye Cartwright, showed her support for him amid his ongoing legal troubles. The 30-year-old model said she will always want whats best for the father of my children.

Trauma can bring struggles in many shapes and forms, she told Us Weekly at the time. Its a horrible situation thats going to be spun in so many ways. Ive learned firsthand the truth will never align with whats been put out there."

Cartwright  who shares three children with the actor  continued, I ask everyone to please be respectful of our privacy for the sake of the children and our families so the healing process can begin.

ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty The cast of 'Home Improvement'

Related: Tim Allen Calls 'Home Improvement' Son Zachery Ty Bryan 'Complex' and 'Corrupted' in Troubled Recent Years

Bryan was released from custody a week later. At the time, his lawyer told PEOPLE in a statement: "Presumption of innocence is extremely important and people should withhold judgement until they see what the actual facts are."

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.



Bryan was previously charged with a similar assault in 2020 after allegedly strangling a woman. He pled guilty to two misdemeanor counts in 2021. "He was sentenced to 36 months of bench probation, with conditions of probation including the program Bridges2Safety and no contact with the victim as well as the other standard conditions in a domestic violence sentencing," according to a statement at the time by Lane County District Attorney Patricia Perlow.

Additional charges related to the 2020 incident  some of which were felonies  were dropped by the Lane County District Attorney. "While Mr. Bryan was charged with additional crimes, including two class C felonies, it is in the interest of closure for the victim and in recognition of the backlog of cases we have due to COVID restrictions that make me believe this resolution is in the interest of justice," the D.A. told PEOPLE.

Bryan confirmed his 2020 arrest had to do with an altercation with Cartwright while speaking to The Hollywood Reporter. The Home Improvement alum said the 2020 event "got so blown out of proportion."

"We didnt even really get that physical. We got really loud. We were screaming and because we were in a townhome that had [thin walls], everybody could hear," he said.

Referring to his previous marriage to Carly Matros, he continued, "Johnnie was, at the time, just really upset about my situation. At the end of the day, [the police] throw a bunch of counts at you because they ultimately want you to plead to something. I couldve fought it  but thats more stress and drama. I got two misdemeanors and called it a day.



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Read the original article on People.
Home Improvement actor Zachery Ty Bryan has pleaded guilty to felony assault but has cut a deal to avoid jail time.

He believes this is the manner he could best resolve this to avoid further trauma to his family, the actors attorney John Kolego told TheWrap on Wednesday.

Bryan, who played the eldest son in the Tim Allen sitcom Home Improvement, was arrested in July in Eugene, Oregon. He was charged with felony assault in violation of the Abuse Prevention Act because the victim had already filed a restraining order against him for a previous incident of domestic violence.

Instead of spending 19 to 20 months in Oregon Department of Corrections, Bryan will given 36 months of supervised probation. He must also serve seven days in jail.

If he violates the terms of the agreement, which include no contact with the victim and undergoing alcohol and substance abuse treatment, the deal will be revoked and he would serve the initially prescribed prison term.

Johnnie Faye Cartwright, who shares three children with Bryan, is not named in the arrest report but issued a statement after he was arrested in which she said, Its a horrible situation thats going to be spun in so many ways. Ive learned firsthand the truth will never align with whats been put out there. I ask everyone to please be respectful of our privacy for the sake of the children and our families so the healing process can begin.

Bryan received three years of probation after a domestic dispute in October 2020, in which he was arrested on domestic assault and strangulation charges. He was accused of assaulting his girlfriend, obstructing her breathing and grabbing her phone to stop her from dialing 911, AP reported at the time.

In that case, he pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors: menacing and fourth-degree assault. He was ordered at the time to attend a violence-intervention program and to have no contact with Cartwright.

In addition to these domestic assault charges, Bryan has also been accused of fraud. Several sources said Bryan stole their money through an agriculture-technology startup scheme, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Bryan played Brad Taylor on Home Improvement from 1991 to 1999. Hes also appeared in the movies True Heart and The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. More recently, hes moved into producing movies such as Warning, Skin and The Kindergarten Teacher, starring Maggie Gyllenhaal.

The post Home Improvement Star Zachery Ty Bryan Pleads Guilty to Felony Assault, Avoids Jail Time appeared first on TheWrap.
Tony Orlando wants to set the record straight: He's a Jersey guy.

Orlando, star of music, TV and more, is set to go into the New Jersey Hall of Fame on Sunday, Oct. 29, in a ceremony at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark.

E Street Band member Patti Scialfa, Giants running back Tiki Barber, Sopranos creator David Chase and basketball player Sue Wicks are among those also being enshrined.

For Orlando, it's a about correcting history.

Its my fault really because when they asked where I was born and grew up, it was New York. But what I forgot to tell them was my main, heartfelt years were from 13 on in Union City all the way to Hasbrouck Heights, and then I moved to North Bergen.

Tony Orlando continues to draw audiences to his performances.

Orlando cut his singing chops at the Tunnel Cuts in Union City.

I grew up on 29th Street off Summit Avenue in Union City, across from Robert Waters High School, and I would doo-wop, Orlando said. My shows were doo-wop at the Tunnel Cuts and everybody would come over. 'Oh, Tonys at the Tunnel Cuts!' And wed be singing harmony together, and the only time I would go see a show was either Palisades Amusement Park to see whoever (Cousin) Bruce had or Murray the K at the Brooklyn Paramount Theatre. And at the age of 16, I actually worked both places. So it was a dream come true right from the get go.

Orlando had hits, Bless You and Halfway to Paradise, as a 16-year old in 1961. He worked as a young record executive for the next 10 years or so, then re-emerged with Telma Hopkins and Joyce Vincent Wilson as Tony Orlando and Dawn. Their Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree, written by Jerseyans Irwin Levine and L. Russell Brown, was such a huge smash that it landed Orlando and Dawn a CBS variety show.

The Tony Orlando and Dawn Show scored more than 36 million viewers for its final broadcast in 1977.

Tony Orlando performs in Branson, Missouri, in 2021.

More: Released 50 years ago, Springsteen's 'The Wild, the Innocent' lives on as fan favorite

Since then, Orlando has performed in concerts, appeared on Broadway, and hosted the New York City presentation of the Jerry Lewis MDA Labor Day Telethon. In 1993, he opened the Yellow Ribbon Music Theatre in Branson, Missouri.

He's also performed, and raised money for, veterans.

These days, Orlando hosts Saturday Nights with Tony Orlando, which airs from 10 p.m. to midnight on 770 WABC-AM and streams on wabcradio.com.

He follows Cousin Bruce Morrow Saturdays on WABC.

The way I approach it is, its like doing a radio documentary for me, said Orlando, who highlights a fellow hitmaker on each show. I just can't flip records. I can't do it.

Orlando will highlight the music hitmakers in the Jersey Hall of Fame on the Saturday, Oct. 28, show. All inductees in the New Jersey Hall of Fame are either from New Jersey, or call New Jersey home  including member Danny Devito, who is hosting Sunday.

Actress/singer Telma Hopkins (left), singer Tony Orlando and singer Joyce Vincent shown at a reunion for Tony Orlando and Dawn in 2005 in Los Angeles.

Entrepreneur Finn Wentworth; ADP head Josh Weston; Newark politician Steve Adubato Sr.; former New Jersey Gov. Charles Edison; statesman George Shultz; sculptor George Segal; librarian Dorothy Porter Wesley also will be inducted on Sunday. Adubato Sr., Edison, Shultz, Segal and Porter Wesley are being inducted posthumously.

Individuals receiving the most votes in each category were inducted following approval of Hall of Fame's board of directors, who then determined who else should be inducted, according to the Hall of Fame.

More: Fugees reunite, Lauryn Hill gets emotional at a very New Jersey homecoming in Newark

The hall is scheduled to move to the American Dream retail and amusement center at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford.

To be honest with you, if I went no further than the Tunnel Cuts and Palisades Park with Brucie and the Paramount Theatre, I would have been happy, Orlando said. Its been a magic carpet ride.

Go: New Jersey Hall of Fame induction, 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29 (red carpet begins at 5:30 p.m.), New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 1 Center St., Newark, $19 to $45; njpac.org.

The Damned in Asbury Park

The Damned are coming to Asbury Park.

No, we're not talking about the Zombie Walk. It's the seminal U.K. punk band  or should that be seminal U.K. goth band?  we speak of. They've embarked on a short U.S. Halloween tour, which comes Friday, Oct. 27, to the Pony.

The band, whose hits include New Rose, Eloise and Alone Again Or, recently released a new album, Darkadelic. On stage will be Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Paul Gray, Monty Oxymoron and new drummer Will Taylor.

The tour also hits Warsaw in Brooklyn on Monday, Oct. 30, and Irving Plaza in Manhattan on Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Go: The Damned with (Blanked) Up and Baby Shakes, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 27, Stone Pony, 913 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park, $42.50 in advance, $47.50 at the door; stoneponyonline.com.

Subscribe to app.com for the latest on the New Jersey music scene.

Chris Jordan, a Jersey Shore native, covers entertainment and features for the USA Today Network New Jersey. Contact him at @chrisfhjordan; cjordan@app.com

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Tony Orlando is entering the New Jersey Hall of Fame
Rebecca Auborn is charged with four counts of murder

Franklin County Jail Rebecca Auborn

A 33-year-old Ohio woman has been accused of meeting men for sex and then fatally drugging them to steal their possessions, according to the Ohio Attorney Generals office.

Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced in a press release that a Franklin County grand jury has indicted Rebecca Auborn, of Columbus, on four murder charges. Yost alleged that Auborn met the men for sex and drugged them so that she could rob them.

Dont buy sex in Ohio  it ruins lives and could cost you yours, Yost said in a statement in the press release.

Auborn faces several felony charges including four counts of murder, four counts of involuntary manslaughter, five counts of aggravated robbery, five counts of felonious assault, five counts of corrupting another with drugs, one count of tampering with evidence and four counts of trafficking in drugs.

Investigators were allegedly able to connect Auborn with four overdoses and robberies that occurred between January and June. One man also survived an attempted overdose, allegedly in connection with Auborn, in December, 2022 according to the Attorney Generals Office.

The Attorney General did not give any additional information about what kinds of drugs were used on the men and how Auborn allegedly drugged them.

Auborn is currently being held in Franklin County jail. It's not immediately clear if she has entered pleas to the charges against her or retained an attorney.

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.

Police are still investigating and believe that there may be additional victims. They say they are focusing their investigation on Auborns allegedly activities between December 2022 and August 2023 and within the area of I-71, State Route 161, Cleveland Avenue and E. 17th Avenue.

Police ask that anyone with information on any overdose deaths that occurred during those time periods and near those locations should contact the Columbus Division of Police homicide tip line at 614-645-2228.



For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on People.
Netflix is releasing a documentary titled ONEFOUR: Against All Odds. It will showcase the exploits of a highly influential yet controversial Australian drill and rap group, ONEFOUR. This group formed about nine years ago and went on to become one of the nations most popular acts. All of its members grew up in a crime-infested Sydney suburb called Mount Druitt.

As of now, ONEFOUR is yet to release a full-length album. Nevertheless, their 2020 EP titled Against All Odds is often considered a masterpiece. Some of their other popular songs are Welcome to Prison, Say It Again, My City, In the Beginning, etc.

Who are the Onefour members and why are they deemed controversial?

ONEFOUR consists of 5 main members. Unfortunately, the presence of all of them at the same time has never taken place so far. This is due to the fact that all of them have to serve time behind bars at different times.

This drill and rap group is controversial because they are associated with the gang culture and crime syndicate of Western Sydney. They are always on the radar of cops and already had legal issues with state authorities before their official formation. Due to the controversial nature of their shows and lyrics, several shows of theirs faced cancelation from time to time.

In 2019, the group had no choice but to cancel their inaugural national due to pressure from the authorities. This further led to the arrest of three of their members. Fans have compared them with the popular American rap group N.W.A. Sometimes, they are even referred to as NWA of Australia or Australian NWA.

The names of ONEFOURs five members are Spenny, YP, Celly, Lekks, and J Emz.

Netflixs Onefour documentary release date

ONEFOUR: Against All Odds will released on Netflix on October 26, 2023.

The post Onefour Members: What Are the Australian Drill Rappers Known For? appeared first on ComingSoon.net - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More.
Teen Mom 2 alum Jenelle Evans had her day in court battling with her mother, Barbara Evans, over custody of her eldest son, Jace Evans, amid husband David Easons child abuse charges.

"I'm taking care of my mental health and I'll make sure that I'm completely fine and so are my kids," Jenelle, 31, said in a since-deleted TikTok video about appearing in court on Wednesday, October 25, adding that she is "going to support my husband." "If you're dying to know what happened today with the court case, it got continued."

Jenelle took to social media before heading into the North Carolina courthouse on Wednesday, sharing some harsh words to her haters. Yo, I just noticed that everybody that dont fk with me, fks with each other. Its like a fking union of dumb ass people, the former reality star mouthed over a viral TikTok sound.

Precisely, she captioned her post, adding a 100 emoji.

The 16 & Pregnant alums appearance in court took place just one day after David, 35, was charged with child abuse for an incident that led to Jaces third runaway attempt. David was under investigation by Child Protective Services (CPS) and North Carolinas Columbus County Police for the September 28 incident that resulted in the 14-year-olds hospitalization.

Jace  who was transferred to his moms custody in March  was hospitalized with visible marks on his neck and arm after being located. According to an incident report obtained by The Ashley, Barbara reportedly told Columbus County Police that Jace claimed to have been assaulted by his stepfather on September 28.

While the child abuse charges are a misdemeanor offense, The U.S. Sun reported on Wednesday that there is currently a warrant out for Davids arrest.

After news of Davids criminal charges broke, Jenelle took to social media to confirm the reports and slammed local law enforcement for conducting a one sided police investigation.

They didnt conduct interviews. Didnt ask any information from the parents, the Read Between the Lines author wrote via her Instagram Story on Tuesday, October 24. This seems like a very bias situation like everytime before. I trusted the detective with all my heart.. Forgot you cant trust cops.. Silly me. I do not trust anyone around me. Going MIA for a while.

She continued, Literally they told details to the media about a minor and have no fks.  I feel so violated by the system.

Jenelle has been adamantly defending her husband in recent weeks, giving him props for having the most patience I've ever seen.

He is being accused of some horrible, horrible st that is not true. I was there, my kids were there, everyone was there. You guys have no idea about the details, she said in an October 15 TikTok video. It just makes me really sad for David. Because David is like, hes just taking all of these punches, rolling with it, not saying st. I dont blame him, and I feel really bad for him because my kids adore that man. My kids love that man so much
Tracy Morgan paid tribute to his longtime business manager Mark Landesman on Wednesday, admitting, I dont know where Id be without you, bro.

Landesman was recognized with THRs Business Manager Icon Award at its annual Power Business Managers breakfast, where Morgan, his client of 20 years, presented him with the honor.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

At the podium, Morgan joked, Whenever I want to buy a new Ferrari, Mark is always here to say, No, Tracy. If it wasnt for Mark, I wouldve had 26 Ferraris and a terrible tax problem. He also teased hes previously asked if he could buy the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and the Staten Island Ferry  the last of which he was told, No Tracy, my other client Pete Davidson already owns it.

Though the ML Management founder has a long list of star clients, the two have a particularly deep bond, as Landesman was the first person at the hospital following Morgans severe car crash in 2014.

On a more serious note, Morgan told Landesman, I love you, Ill always love you, he said. You mean a lot to me. You were there for me.

He continued, Hes more than just a business manager, hes more than just a friend, Mark is like a member of my family. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all that youve done and all youve done for me.

Tracy Morgan speaks onstage during THRs 2023 Power Business Managers presented by City National Bank at CUT by Wolfgang Puck on Oct. 25 in Beverly Hills.

Accepting his award, the business manager acknowledged that many people dont know exactly what his job entails, and on top of handling all aspects of his clients money, our relationship can go much deeper for some; our clients rely on us for so many non-financial matters and seek our advice on so many lifestyle issues and as such, we are all considered very close and trusted fiduciaries.

Landesman recalled hearing about Morgans horrific accident on the news and learning that the star had been airlifted to a New Jersey hospital about an hour from his house.

My immediate reaction was to get to the hospital as soon as possible, because I knew Tracy just completed his estate plan and I was named his power of attorney and health care proxy, he explained, with an emotional Morgan by his side. After walking into the emergency room, I was escorted into the conference room, briefed on the situation and was introduced to numerous doctors. I then realized Tracys family were heavily relying on me for guidance and to help interpret the situation. Very tough decisions had to be made; Tracys recovery was long and difficult. I visited him throughout the hospital and then at the rehab facility, which went over several months. I tried to keep the spirits positive, and there was so many unknowns ahead of him: What kind of recovery would Tracy have and would he ever be able to work again?

Cut to today, and Morgan has had an impressive recovery and returned to comedy, with Landesman noting, Im happy to say my relationship with Tracy is totally back to normal. I talk him out of buying all the Ferraris. I tell him, Dont buy this, dont buy that, dont buy the Brooklyn Bridge and save your money.'

To conclude, Landesman added, The last three years have been very overwhelming to almost everyone here, from the onset of COVID and to the recent strikes. Many clients need us to get them through these tough times. Landesman then gave a special shoutout to his very first client, Eddie Murphy. We were 23 when we met  he gave me an opportunity that changed my life. He was my luck factor and Im forever grateful.

The award presentation was part of a breakfast celebrating Hollywoods Top Business Managers, which also included a keynote Q&A between CAAs Ted Chervin and THR senior business editor Ashley Cullins about the increasingly intertwined business relationship between Hollywood and professional sports.

The 13th annual event was held at Cut in Beverly Hills and sponsored by City National Bank.

Mark Landesman, founder and partner of ML Management Partners, attends THRs 2023 Power Business Managers presented by City National Bank at CUT by Wolfgang Puck on Oct. 25 in Beverly Hills.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter

Click here to read the full article.
Kreskin Torres, the Uber driver eating his way through America, stopped in Des Moines.

As a kid growing up in Baltimore, Kreskin Torres wanted to see the world.

Seven years ago, after serving in the U.S. Army, Torres set out to do just that. He started driving his Honda Accord across the country for Uber, the mobile ride-hailing service.

"We have this saying, 'If you can make it in Baltimore, you can make it anywhere,'" Torres told the Register.

As the internet's Rideshare Foodie, Torres has picked up followers  and friends  throughout the U.S. while putting miles on his car.

Earlier this month, Torres came back to Iowa for Midwestern fall meals including fall-inspired treats near Ames and a famous pizza in downtown Des Moines.

More: Meet the homegrown social media influencers putting Iowa on the map

What does the 'Rideshare Foodie' try during a stop in Des Moines?

For his third visit, Torres came back for a taste of Iowa. He sampled his way through small towns and big cities.

On a Friday afternoon in early October, Torres sat behind a booth at Chicago Speakeasy in Des Moines' Oak Park neighborhood. Torres wanted to try the restaurant's Steak de Burgo, a beef dish with a butter, garlic and herb sauce. He reflected on his travels around the world and his time in Iowa.

Days later, he sat at a table at Fong's Pizza in downtown Des Moines and took bites out of their funky pizza pies, including the famed crab Rangoon pizza.

"This is kind of delicious," Torres remarked before recommending a dipping sauce on the side.

He also sampled gas station pizza and apple cider donuts from Storybook Orchard in Story City near Ames during his central Iowa stops.

In Iowa, the 'Rideshare Foodie' finds friends who are 'more like family'

"(My) favorite thing being back is the people I've gotten to meet who were friends and now we're more like family," Torres told the Register in late October.

Torres first traveled to Des Moines in 2018. Then, a pair of Army veterans invited him to attend a birthday with locals. Two years later during a second trip to Des Moines, his friend Shon Bruellman, the owner-operator of The Big Red Food Truck, invited him to a Christmas Eve dinner for local veterans at a YMCA in central Iowa.

Following the dinner, Bruellman had a Christmas present in mind for Torres. The rideshare driver, who typically lives out of his car during visits, was invited to stay at the family's Airbnb and hosted Torres for Christmas dinner.

The Uber driver eating through America, Kreskin J. Torres, stopped by in Des Moines to try the local staple Fong's Pizza.

In a follow-up interview, Torres said he was happy to know that locals in Iowa go out of their way to make a visitor like him "feel comfortable and share what they have with others who may have less."

The Midwest hospitality  and display of Iowa nice  stuck with him. Cities elsewhere are different, he said.

"Some cities are just cliquish, kind of like high school. You know? Like you have this different table, you have to know somebody, you can't just walk up to people," Torres said.

More: Jason Momoa reunites with high school girlfriend 25 years later at Iowa grocery store

During his last visit in 2020, one commenter in the DSM Dining Discoveries group on Facebook offered up their home as a warm place for him to stay. The local Hy-Vee worker said Torres could stay at his home if he ever came back to the Des Moines metro.

So, this autumn, when he returned for the most recent visit, Torres took him up on the offer. He got a spare room and "some good ole pies."

On Oct. 10, Torres left Iowa for Indiana. He traveled from Kokomo and Huntington to Fort Wayne and Indianapolis for breaded pork tenderloin and fried biscuits with apple butter.

The Uber driver eating through America, Kreskin J. Torres, stopped by in Des Moines to try the local staple Fong's Pizza.

He's had a head start on his childhood dream. As an adult, he's been able to see America  and, of course, Iowa.

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: 'Rideshare Foodie Uber driver returns to sample classic Iowa dishes
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad is RM0.64 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of RM0.74 suggests Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad is potentially trading close to its fair value

Analyst price target for LEESK is RM1.15, which is 81% above our fair value estimate

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad (KLSE:LEESK) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. 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 Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad

The Calculation

We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Seeing as no analyst estimates of free cash flow are available to us, we have extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the company's last reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM8.94m RM8.90m RM8.98m RM9.12m RM9.32m RM9.57m RM9.84m RM10.1m RM10.5m RM10.8m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -2.05% Est @ -0.37% Est @ 0.81% Est @ 1.63% Est @ 2.21% Est @ 2.61% Est @ 2.89% Est @ 3.09% Est @ 3.23% Est @ 3.32% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 11% RM8.0 RM7.2 RM6.5 RM5.9 RM5.4 RM5.0 RM4.6 RM4.3 RM4.0 RM3.7

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM54m

Story continues

We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 11%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM11m (1 + 3.6%)  (11% 3.6%) = RM142m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM142m ( 1 + 11%)10= RM48m

The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is RM103m. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM0.7, 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

Important Assumptions

The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 11%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.157. 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 Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Consumer Durables market.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for LEESK.

Moving On:

Whilst important, the DCF calculation shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. 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 Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad, we've put together three important aspects you should further examine:

Risks: Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with Lee Swee Kiat Group Berhad , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. Future Earnings: How does LEESK's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
Chinese fighter jet nearly collides with American B-52 bomber over South China Sea: US officials

A Chinese fighter pilot nearly crashed into an American B-52 bomber over the South China Sea during a nighttime intercept on Tuesday, according to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

The Chinese pilot "demonstrated poor airmanship" in his J-11 jet, flying within just 10 feet of the B-52 bomber "with uncontrolled excessive speed," putting both planes in danger of colliding, according to U.S. officials.

PHOTO: A J-11B fighter jet of the People's Liberation Army Air Force performs during an air show, Aug. 26, 2022, in Changchun, China. (Wang Heda/VCG via Getty Images)

MORE: US releases video showing close-call in Taiwan Strait with Chinese destroyer

Video released by the U.S. on Thursday in a social media post shows how dangerously close the Chinese jet got to the American aircraft.

NEW: @INDOPACOM releases video of "unsafe and unprofessional" maneuver made by Chinese J-11 fighter jet near a US B-52 bomber that occufred on Tuesday over the South China Sea. The Chinese jet got within just 10 feet of the American bomber, per PACOM. pic.twitter.com/wSI6tjUolH  Matt Seyler (@MattSeyler) October 26, 2023

"The PRC intercept was conducted at night, with limited visibility, in a manner contrary to international air safety rules and norms," a news release from Indo-Pacific Command said.

"We are concerned this pilot was unaware of how close he came to causing a collision," the release said.

PHOTO: A U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft takes off, May 12, 2019. (Tech. Sgt. Nichelle Anderson/USAF)

MORE: Blinken, Sullivan to meet with Chinas top diplomat Wang Yi in Washington amid tensions

According to Indo-Pacific Command, Tuesday's near collision is the latest in a string of more than 180 "unsafe, unprofessional, and other behaviors that seek to impinge upon the ability of the United States and other nations to safely conduct operations" since fall 2021.

Last week, the Pentagon released videos and descriptions of 15 recent instances of what it called "coercive and risky operational behavior" by China's People's Liberation Army against U.S. aircraft, though none of those involved a Chinese fighter harassing a U.S. bomber.

None of the 15 cases of "risky and coercive" PRC pilot behavior released by PACOM last week involved U.S. bombers, according to a U.S. official.

Chinese fighter jet nearly collides with American B-52 bomber over South China Sea: US officials originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Former UN ambassador Nikki Haley has surged nationally in a new USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll, challenging a faltering Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis as the top alternative to Donald Trump for the GOP presidential nomination.

Haley's support has risen to 11% of registered voters who plan to vote in GOP primaries or caucuses, up from 4% in the USA TODAY/Suffolk poll taken in June and just 1 percentage point below DeSantis. His 12% standing was a steep fall from his 23% support four months ago.

Trump continues to dominate the field, backed by 58%, up 10 points.

The survey of 309 Republican and Republican-leaning voters, taken Tuesday through Friday by landline and cellphone, has a margin of error of plus or minus 5.6 percentage points.

Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley speaks during the Seacoast Media Group and USA TODAY Network 2024 Republican Presidential Candidate Town Hall Forum held in the historic Exeter Town Hall in Exeter, N.H., on Ict, 12. The former governor of South Carolina and former United States Ambassador to the United Nations spoke to prospective New Hampshire voters about issues during the hour-long forum.

Haley already has edged narrowly ahead of DeSantis In New Hampshire and South Carolina, which hold early contests on the primary calendar.

The two contenders have been targeting each other, sparring in public over Mideast policy and competing in private with appeals to major Republican donors.

Last week, the Florida governor suggested Haley as president would admit to the United States refugees from war-torn Gaza, and a political action committee allied with DeSantis bought ads making the allegation. Haley said she didn't support the idea and accused DeSantis of distorting her previous remarks.

Tarek Ellaicy, 35, of Dunlap, Illinois, a Republican who was called in the poll, said she was leaning toward Haley. "She has experience; she's moderate; she's in the middle," she said in a follow-up interview. "At the end of the day, she could bring the country together."

None of the other Republican candidates scored higher than 3% in the new poll, all of them losing modest ground since June. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott and tech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy were at 3%. Former Vice President Mike Pence, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and talk show host Larry Elder were at 1%.

In the poll, Haley did better among men than women, and she showed particular strength in the Midwest and the Northeast. She drew more support than DeSantis among college graduates and among political independents. He was stronger among Republicans.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Haley surges, catches DeSantis as Trump alternative: Exclusive poll
Israel-Gaza updates: Gaza sees deadliest day since conflict began

Thousands of people have died and thousands more have been injured since the militant group Hamas launched an unprecedented surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7 and Israel retaliated with a bombing campaign and total siege of the neighboring Gaza Strip, leaving the region on the verge of all-out war.

Click here for updates from previous days.





Latest Developments





Oct 25, 5:46 PM

House passes resolution defending Israel

The House of Representatives passed a resolution defending Israel and condemning Hamas after the group's attack earlier this month and the escalating war in the Gaza Strip.



The resolution passed in a 412-10 vote. Six members voted present. Nine of the 10 "no" votes came from progressive Democrats, while Rep. Thomas Massie, Ky., was the only Republican to vote against the resolution.



-ABC News' Lauren Peller and Tal Axelrod





Oct 25, 5:31 PM

Dueling Russia, US resolutions on conflict fail to advance at UN Security Council

The dueling resolutions on the Israel-Hamas war put forth to the United Nations Security Council by Russia and the U.S. have both failed.



Russia's version called for a humanitarian ceasefire and avoided condemning Hamas. Russia, China, the UAE and Gabon voted in favor of the draft, while nine members abstained, and both the U.S. and the U.K. voted against it.



While the U.S. emphasized in its resolution Israels right to defend itself from Hamas, officials worked to find a middle ground that would placate a majority of members, urging a pause to military action in Gaza. The U.S. measure secured the votes it needed to advance out of the council but was ultimately vetoed by Russia and China.



"The United States is deeply disappointed that Russia and China vetoed this resolution. A resolution that, as I've said, was strong and it was balanced. That was the product of consultations with members of this Council. We did listen to all of you. We incorporated feedback. And we worked to forge consensus around a resolution that would send a clear message to the world  and most importantly, to Israelis and Palestinians  that this Council is determined to meet this moment," U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Linda Thomas-Greenfield said.



-ABC News' Shannon Crawford





Oct 25, 4:40 PM

WHO calls for release of hostages, proof of life, proof of medical care

The World Health Organization said there's "an urgent need" for Hamas to "provide signs of life, proof of provision of health care and the immediate release" of the hostages.



WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said he met with families of some hostages on Wednesday.



"Many of the hostages, including children, women and the elderly, have pre-existing health conditions requiring urgent and sustained care and treatment," he said in a statement. "The mental health trauma that the abducted, and the families, are facing is acute and psychosocial support is of great importance."





Oct 25, 4:36 PM

Israeli official: 'Definitions of defeating Hamas' must be more 'realistic'

Maj. Gen. (res.) Giora Eiland, the former head of the Israel National Security Council, told ABC News the "definitions of defeating Hamas  have to be a little more measurable and realistic."



Eiland, who has been working inside Israels military headquarters, said theres no way to completely destroy Hamas, but he said what Israel can do "is destroy the military capabilities and other governmental functions of Hamas."

"But even to achieve this limited goal we will have to maintain the military effort," he said.



Eiland said Israel cannot allow Hamas "the ability now or in the future to rebuild their rocket arsenal."



-ABC News' Matt Gutman





Oct 25, 3:44 PM

House to vote on resolution defending Israel

The House on Wednesday is debating a resolution to show support for Israel and condemn Hamas.

PHOTO: Mourners gather around the graves of Sgt. Yam Goldstein and her father, Nadav, during their funeral in Kibbutz Shefayim, Israel, Oct. 23, 2023. (Ariel Schalit/AP)

The resolution introduced by House Foreign Affairs Chairman Mike McCaul is entitled "Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists."

It's expected to pass with large bipartisan support.

-ABC News' Lauren Peller





Oct 25, 3:39 PM

Israeli forces said they've hit underground tunnels

Missiles fired by Israeli forces have struck underground tunnels in Gaza, targeting Hamas terrorists, a spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces said. It's unclear what the result of the hit was.



Hamas has previously claimed to have built 500 kilometers -- more than 300 miles -- of tunnels under Gaza. The tunnel system is designed to conceal and cover Hamas militants and allow them to execute surprise attacks, according to experts.



The IDF spokesman said Israel's current attacks in Gaza are improving their situation for the next stage of the long war ahead.





Oct 25, 2:35 PM

Biden says Israel has right to defend itself while urging country to follow 'laws of war'

President Joe Biden on Wednesday emphasized U.S. support for Israel's right to defend itself, while also urging the country to do "everything in its power" to protect innocent people in Gaza.



"We will ensure Israel has what it needs to defend itself," Biden said during a press conference at the White House with Australia's prime minister.



Biden said Hamas is using Palestinian civilians as human shields, putting an "added burden on Israel while they go after Hamas," but Israel should still do everything it can to follow the "laws of war."

"Israel has to do everything in its power, as difficult as it is, to protect innocent civilians," he said.

Biden also said the flow of aid to Gaza needs to increase and that he was working around the clock to secure the release of hostages.

He reiterated his support for a two-state solution, saying that the status quo will never return after Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

"I'm convinced one of the reasons Hamas attacked when they did -- I have no proof of this, my instinct tells me -- is because of the progress we were making toward regional integration for Israel and regional integration overall. And we can't leave that work behind, Biden said, repeating a claim hes made before about his efforts to broker a broader deal between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia that would lead to Saudi Arabia recognizing Israel.

-ABC News' Cheyenne Haslett





Oct 25, 2:23 PM

Israel readying for ground operation, won't reveal date: Netanyahu

Israeli forces are getting ready for the ground operation into Gaza, but will not tell anyone when it will be, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Wednesday.



When soldiers enter Gaza, they'll "exact the full price from these murderers," Netanyahu said in Hebrew.

"I once again call on the uninvolved population in Gaza to evacuate to the southern strip," he said.

Netanyahu also said Israel will "do everything possible to bring hostages home."

"We are gathering the support of world leaders," he added. "Our fight against Hamas is also their fight."

PHOTO: Israeli soldiers gather in a staging area near the border with Gaza Strip, in southern Israel, Oct. 24, 2023. (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)





Oct 25, 12:52 PM

Gaza shelters 4 times over their capacities: UNRWA

Shelters in Gaza are four times over their capacities, forcing many people to sleep in the streets, according to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.



Nearly 600,000 displaced Gaza residents are sheltering at 150 UNRWA facilities, the agency said.

PHOTO: Palestinians, who fled their houses amid Israeli strikes, take shelter in a tent camp at a United Nations-run center in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, Oct. 19, 2023. (Ibraheem Abu Mustafa/Reuters)





Oct 25, 12:41 PM

Tuesday marks deadliest day in Gaza since conflict began

Tuesday marked the deadliest day in Gaza since the Hamas-Israel conflict began on Oct. 7, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs.



At least 700 people died on Tuesday, OCHA said.

PHOTO: Palestinian emergency services and local citizens search for victims in buildings destroyed during Israeli air raids in the southern Gaza Strip on Oct. 24, 2023 in Khan Yunis, Gaza. (Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images)

PHOTO: Trucks loaded with aid reaches a hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, Oct. 25, 2023. (AP Photo)

Over 6,500 people have died in Gaza since Oct. 7, according to the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry.

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
Vivek Ramaswamy has built a national profile this year through his campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, but the entrepreneur and commentator says the GOP is just a "vehicle" for his larger goal, despite the criticism that may bring.

"I'm not a party man. Even now, I'm not a party man," Ramaswamy said on Tuesday during a fireside chat with Hudson Institute Senior Fellow Michael Doran in Washington, D.C., where he discussed international wars including in Israel and Ukraine.

"I'm using the Republican Party as a vehicle to advance what I see as a pro-American agenda that this country is hungry for," he continued as he answered Doran's first question, which kicked off a fiery conversation: "Why are you a Republican?"

Ramaswamy has been asked that several times on the campaign trail -- including during another heated appearance this month, on Fox News.

Host Sean Hannity questioned when exactly Ramaswamy became a Republican voter as the two clashed over Ramaswamy's views on foreign conflicts. Ramaswamy previously claimed to have not voted until 2020, when he cast a ballot for Donald Trump,

MORE: 2024 candidates debate TikTok, even the ones who called it a drug

"I voted libertarian in my first election [in 2004]," Ramaswamy acknowledged to Hannity. But, he added, "I voted Republican in 2020. I'm not a partisan hack. I'm an independent-minded patriot."

The day after that interview, during a trip to the southern border and amid some criticism from other Republicans, Ramaswamy suggested to ABC News that he strategically aligned himself with the GOP.

"It's a two-party system and I'm using the Republican Party to stand for 'America first' principles, and I'm pretty open about that," he said.

That unorthodoxy is reflected in some of his policy positions that break from the GOP mainstream -- including appearing to say the U.S. should have a deadline beyond which they wouldn't defend Taiwan if China were to attack -- and in his approach to who he appears with on the trail.

"Black, white, man, woman, Republican, Democrat. Doesn't matter," has been a recurring talking point throughout his campaign. As fiery as he is against Democrats and many liberal views, he's also slammed Republicans, such as criticizing former President George W. Bush for the U.S. invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy speaks on 'his vision for the defense of the American homeland,' during an event at the Hudson Institute, Oct. 24, 2023, in Washington, D.C. (Kevin Wolf/AP)

At the same time, Ramaswamy said Tuesday, there is "zero chance that I find any alignment with the domestic vision of the Democratic Party."

That style echoes former President Donald Trump, another 2024 candidate, whom Ramaswamy has repeatedly praised. During his 2016 campaign, Trump ran as an anti-establishment outsider against a slew of well established Republican politicians and was also vocal in criticizing Bush, the most recent GOP president -- until him.

Ramaswamy has been joined by various guests from across the ideological spectrum on the campaign trail, including inviting Democratic Mayor Sheldon Neeley when he visited Flint, Michigan, earlier this month. He has not shied away from extreme figures either, sitting down for an hourlong discussion with far-right provocateur and conspiracy theorist Alex Jones when he visited the border a few weeks ago.

"My view is, talk to everybody," Ramaswamy said of his conversation with Jones, whose long history of incendiary comments includes falsely claiming that the Sandy Hook Elementary School mass shooting was a hoax -- which resulted in him being ordered to pay $1 billion in damages to the victims' families.

Some Republican challengers seized on Ramaswamy talking with Jones to highlight what they called his unpreparedness to be president.

"His candidacy is a joke," former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie said at a campaign stop in Derry, New Hampshire, on Wednesday.

"If Alex Jones walked by here right now and said hello to me, I wouldn't say hello back, let alone go on his show," Christie said. "And this shows what a pandering fool Vivek is."

The Ramaswamy campaign said Wednesday that he had scheduled a debate with Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna for next week in New Hampshire, after going back and forth with the California lawmaker for months. However, St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, where Ramaswamy said he and Khanna will face off, hasn't confirmed the event yet.

Ramaswamy's approach seems to have gotten the attention of some voters, one of whom asked in an Ames, Iowa, campaign event on Monday if he would consider running alongside Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who this month ended his 2024 Democratic primary campaign to run as an independent.

"I think one of the things he's doing that's useful is moving the terms of the conversation," Ramaswamy said of Kennedy. "But unfortunately the way that ballot access works, it's a two-party system. So I'm using the Republican Party as a vehicle to win this election."

Vivek Ramaswamy explains why he's using Republican Party as a 'vehicle' in 2024 campaign originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
PARIS  Animal rights group Collectif SIPE is targeting Max Maras boutique on Avenue Montaigne as well as Galeries Lafayettes flagship on Boulevard Haussmann in a series of demonstrations.

They are protesting the continued use of animal fur by the brands parent Max Mara Group, the privately held company that also owns Weekend Max Mara, Sportmax, Max & Co. and Marina Rinaldi, among others, as well as discrepancies in Galeries Lafayettes listing of some of the groups products.

More from WWD

SIPE filed a complaint Tuesday with Frances advertising regulation authority ARPP for false advertising. The filing noted that items listed on Galeries Lafayettes website described Weekend Max Mara products as having a synthetic fur effect, while the labels website indicates real asiatic-raccoons fur, fur origin in the composition of the same items.

It was not immediately clear if the Galeries Lafayette listings were intentionally misleading or an oversight. A spokesperson for Galeries Lafayette corporate division said the company declines to comment on these products.

Berlin-based Zalando had also listed the Weekend Max Mara coats with the description faux fur. It removed the items Thursday after being contacted by SIPE. The European shopping site has been part of the Fur Free Retailer program since 2016.

Zalando does not permit animals to be slaughtered solely for the purpose of fashion. We believe that killing animals solely for the purposes of fashion products is unnecessary, the company states in its policy.

In a statement to WWD, Zalando confirmed it had removed the items.

If, in exceptional cases, products that contradict our regulations should nevertheless find their way into the Fashion Store, we will immediately take them down and contact the relevant partners, added a company spokesperson.

SIPE is also asking Max Mara Group to eliminate the use of fur across all brands.

We are asking them one simple thing  to adopt a fur-free policy, a SIPE spokesperson told WWD. We know it is an achievable target. They do not rely on fur [as a core product]. They just have some, and they do not need to rely on the fur industry to survive as a company.

The SIPE spokesperson noted that Max Mara works with Finland-based Saga furs, which practice factory farming using cages; and auctions fox, mink and raccoon dog fur.

The group said the protests will be ongoing until Max Mara commits to a fur-free policy. We are using our right to protest, until they decide to get rid of us by getting rid of the fur.

Max Mara is trying hard to not have a conversation with us, the spokesperson added, noting the group had reached out to the company via several channels. We ask just to have a conversation about our request, or how we can work together toward [a fur-free policy].

Representatives for Max Mara did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Adopting a fur-free policy would put Max Mara in line with other luxury houses such as Armani, Burberry, Chanel, Prada, Valentino and Versace, which have stopped selling fur, although it is not a core part of their businesses.

French luxury conglomerate Kering committed to a fur-free policy across all brands including Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga and Gucci, which came into effect with the fall 2022 collections. LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, parent company of Dior and Fendi, continues to use fur.

Retailers in the U.S. including Macys, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue, and Hudsons Bay in Canada, have adopted fur-free policies. Online retailer Farfetch also banned fur items from its offerings in 2019.

Fur farming has been banned in 19 European countries, 14 of which are EU member states. Strict animal welfare laws in Germany and Switzerland have effectively closed all fur farms in those countries, and Norways fur farming ban will come into effect in 2025.

Denmark, Hungary and Sweden have some animal welfare requirements and breed bans in place, but have not outright stopped the practice.

After crossing the 1.5 million signature threshold under the European Citizens Initiative, a petition from Fur Free Europe which calls for a European block-wide ban on farming and killing of animals for fur production, was submitted to the European Commission in June.

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Bella Hadid posted a written statement to her Instagram condemning the Hamas attacks and advocating for the innocent lives of Palestinians amid Israel airstrikes in Gaza.

The supermodel shared a post on Instagram asking the public to forgive her for her silence amid the Hamas terror attacks and Israeli retaliation, telling her followers that she struggled to find the ideal words to respond to the deeply intricate and horrific events of the past two weeks.

She explained that amid being sent hundreds of death threats daily and her phone number being leaked, she and her family have felt unsafe. Despite these risks, Hadid wrote that fear is not an option, and added, The people and children of Palestine, especially in Gaza, cannot afford our silence. We are not brave  they are.

My heart is bleeding with pain from the trauma I am seeing unfold, as well as the generational trauma of my Palestinian blood, she continued. Seeing the aftermath from the airstrikes in Gaza, I mourn with all the mothers who have lost children and the children who cry alone, all the lost fathers, brothers, sisters, uncles, aunties, friends that will never again walk this earth.

The Dior ambassador added that she mourned for the Israeli families who suffered loss and pain in the aftermath of the 7 October Hamas attacks. I condemn the terrorist attacks on any civilians, anywhere, she wrote.

Harming women and children and inflicting terror does not and should not do any good for the Free Palestine movement, she noted. I believe deep in my heart, that no child, no people anywhere, should be taken away from their family either temporarily or indefinitely. She added, This goes for Israeli and Palestinian people alike.

In light of the ongoing conflict, Hadid underscored the importance of understanding the hardship of what it is to be Palestinian, in a world that sees us as nothing more than terrorists resisting peace. She said that these notions were categorically untrue.

Hadid went on to describe her fathers experience as a native Palestinian, who was born in Nazareth in 1948, the year of the what Palestinians call the Nakba, in which 750,000 Palestinians were displaced. She said her fathers family was expelled from Palestine and forced to become refugees.

The supermodel wrote that for 75 years, her family had witnessed brutal settler invasions that included the destruction of entire communities as well as cold-blooded murder and the forcible removal of families from their homes. This had caused unimaginable pain, she said.

We must all stand together in defending humanity and compassion  and demanding that our leaders do the same, she urged her followers. All religions are peace  it is governments that are corrupt, and intertwining the two makes for the greatest sin of all. We are one and God has created all equal. All bloodshed, tears, and bodies should be mourned with the same respect.

She added: There is an urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza that must be attended to. Families need access to water and food. Hospitals need fuel to power generators, tend to the wounded and keep people alive.

Hadid wrote that even during war laws must be upheld, no matter the circumstance. She encouraged her followers to keep pressure on world leaders to remind them of the Palestinian plight so that fewer innocent civilians would end up the forgotten casualties of this war.

In the past, Hadid has taken public stances, standing with the Free Palestine movement. In May 2021, she received public backlash for attending a Pro-Palestine march in New York City along with her sister Gigi and Dua Lipa, who was dating her brother Anwar at the time. She was the target of an ad placed by the World Values Network in the New York Times condemning her support of Palestine, saying: Hamas calls for a second Holocaust. Condemn them now.

The controversy led to calls for brands like Dior to drop Hadid as an ambassador, which was largely ignored.

Hadid has also notably condemned antisemitism, indirectly commenting on Twitter, now known as X, on Kanye Wests disturbing death con 3 on Jewish people remarks.

At the time, the model wrote: To allow any form of anti-semitism to slip by, as desensitized as the world has become, it would be a disservice to my friends, the families I have grown up with, the people I love and work with, myself, and even the Palestinian cause as a whole.
The Cipriani family is bringing another real estate development to South Florida.

Following the success of the sold-out Mr. C Residences in Coconut Grove, brothers Maggio and Ignazio Cipriani have unveiled what will be West Palm Beachs first-ever hotel-branded residences. The two have joined forces with Terra and Arquitectonica to build the 25-story Mr. C-branded condominium at 320 Lakeview Ave., which will include a 110-room hotel and 146 private residences priced at $2 million and up. The brothers enlisted Landscape Design Workshop to do up the grounds and Meyer Davis to curate the interiors and amenity spaces.

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Mr. C represents a modern interpretation of old-world sensibilities, and my brother and I are very proud to add this exciting new location to our expanding brand, said Ignazio in a press statement. We are happy to align our vision once again with Terra, whose partnership and professionalism we value very much, and add a new relationship with Sympatico, whose reputation is well known in the South Florida market.

Residences at the swanky new tower will include one- to four-bedroom units ranging from 830 to 2,200 square feet. And depending on the floor, part-time residents and investors looking to defray expenses will have the opportunity to enter their home in the hotels rental program.

The property will also feature tons of amenities like a fitness center and spa, a yoga studio, a co-working lounge, a dog run, and a bocce court. There will also be a resort-style pool deck with cabanas, a childrens playground, and a barbecue area. Elsewhere, hotel guests will get to enjoy a Bellini cafe and restaurant, a library, plus a rooftop pool and jacuzzi.

Downtown West Palm Beach is emerging as one of South Floridas most exciting, fastest-growing neighborhoods, added David Martin, CEO of Terra. Weve had strong sales at our Mr. C Residences project in Coconut Grove, and were excited to be partnering once again with Ignazio and Maggio for our firms first development in West Palm Beach.

The Ciprianis currently operate a Mr. C hotel in Miami, Beverly Hills, and New York City and have recently expanded their residential portfolio to include Dubai. Construction on the West Palm Beach project is expected to get underway early next year and is slated for completion in 2026. Douglas Elliman will lead the sales, which are anticipated to launch in November.

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A former professional blackjack player may be on the cusp of cracking one of the most notorious cold cases in historyone so puzzling, even the FBI couldnt solve it. But first, the sleuth just needs to get his hands on a discarded black tie.

Eric Ulis of Michigan is so convinced that hes the man to finally solve the infamous D.B. Cooper skyjacking of Thanksgiving Eve 1971the only unsolved commercial airline hijacking in U.S. historythat hes literally suing the FBI to make it happen.

In 2022, Ulis laid out his theory on how the remnants of an alloy that the FBI reportedly found on Coopers tossed tie pinpoint the skyjackers workplace to a Midland, Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of titanium-antimony. All Ulis needs now, he feels, is the samples off the tie themselves, which is why hes pursuing litigation to procure them.

Ulis, like many other amateur sleuths, hopes to finally answer the 51-year-old question: Who was D.B. Cooper? But before he can address that one, we first have to ask another: Why do people still care about D.B. Cooper?

Lets start with the fateful day that we (sort of) met the man (incorrectly) called D.B. Cooper.

Bettmann - Getty Images

D.B. Cooper: The Mystery Man

Its November 24, 1971.

The #1 movie in America is The French Connection, a gritty neo-noir where handsome Hollywood stars Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider get stylishly dirtied up to play NYPD cops chasing down heroin smugglers. At the same time, the #1 song on the radio is Isaac Hayes's Theme from Shaft, the iconic song soundtracking a film about the impeccably tailored detective John Shaft, who would just as soon work with the pushers and pimps of Harlem than take help from the NYPD, as long as he gets justice. Which is all to suggest that in November 1971, the U.S. hasnt quite figured out who to root for in the proverbial game of cops and robbers.

Bettmann - Getty Images

But the mystery man of the hour on that November afternoon looked nothing like the gritty-but-glamorous stars of the day's premier crime dramas. He was, as the FBI described him, a "white male, 6'1" tall, 170-175 pounds, age-mid-forties, olive complexion, brown eyes, black hair, conventional cut, parted on left."

He purchased, in cash, a one-way ticket aboard Northwest Orient Airlines Flight 305 from Portland to Seattle. He paid $18.52, and gave the name Dan Cooper. There was no ID checked, no security protocols of any kind. Dan Cooper was permitted to board his flight unencumbered.

This might be the point in the story where you think, Well, they couldn't have expected that somebody would hijack the plane. But while apparently they didn't, they absolutely should have.

These days, our idea of plane hijackers is either D.B. Cooper, the terrorists behind the 9/11 attacks, or those scrappy prisoners from Con Air. But by 1971, skyjacking was a fairly regular occurrence. In fact, Vox notes that "between May 1961 and the end of 1972, there were 159 hijackings in American airspace." Hijackings, or as they were colloquially called, "skyjackings," were common enough that, the year prior to the D.B. Cooper affair, the British comedy troupe Monty Python aired a sketch mocking the absurd frequency of the act.

D.B. Cooper's Skyjacking, Explained

"Onboard the Boeing jet, [Cooper] had a bourbon and soda, smoked cigarettes, and gave a flight attendant a note that said he had a bomb," Biography reports. In fact, the flight attendant to whom the note was passed, Florence Schaffner, didn't even read the note initially.

Geoffrey Gray's Skyjack: The Hunt for D.B. Cooper goes into great detail on the degree to which flight attendants of the time were subject to harassment and inappropriate behavior from passengers. Schaffner likely assumed the note was merely a suggestive missive from an amorous traveler until the man whispered to her, "Miss, you'd better look at that note. I have a bomb."

But did Cooper really have a bomb? Well, he certainly had "a case containing wires and red sticks," and that was enough for him to get his demands heard. What did Cooper want? "$200,000 in $20 bills, as well as four parachutes."

Bettmann - Getty Images

The Great D.B. Cooper Escape

Heres where we get our first bit of evidence that Cooper knew a bit more than your usual hijacker. Cooper's request of four parachutes was made so that those on the ground would think he intended to take a hostage with him. Had he only requested two (parachuting always involves two chutes: the primary and the backup), there was a chance he would have been given dummy chutes so that he would plummet to his death rather than get away with the money. (Our anti-hijacking strategies back then were pretty bad, and this one wasn't even the dumbest idea we had.) But they wouldn't risk that happening to an innocent hostage. Cooper was in control.

That meant Cooper got his way. The plane landed in Seattle, the hostages were exchanged for the ransom, and a skeleton crew ("two pilots, a flight engineer, and a flight attendant") took Cooper back in the air, toward Mexico City. Cooper instructed the pilots to "fly lower than 10,000 feet, at a speed under 200 knots" and to lower the planes aft stairs. He then descended those stairs, unseen, and parachuted into the night, with $200,000 in tow, leaving behind only a black necktie (and some cigarette butts that have since gone missing).

How Dan Cooper Became D.B. Cooper

What Cooper couldn't control, however, was whether anyone got his fake name right.

You'll recall that he gave the name "Dan Cooper" when he purchased his plane ticket. He possibly took the moniker from a Franco-Belgian comic book entitled Les Aventures de Dan Cooper, whose stories notably involved "jumping out of a plane with a parachute, as well as a ransom being delivered in a knapsack." So how did it become D.B.? Simple. Reporter James Long, of the Oregon Journal in Portland, simply got the name wrong. "Either because the Northwest [source] gave it to me wrong or because the noisy [phone] connection helped me misunderstand it," Long would later confess to the LA Times.

But it stuck, and D.B. Cooper became the name that earned both infamy and, in some corners, folk-hero status amongst a fading counter-culture desperate for remnants of the "anti-establishment."

What Happened to D.B. Cooper?

So what became of D.B. Cooper? No one truly knows. While the ransom money never entered circulation, some of it did turn up in 1980, badly decomposed and buried on the north shore of the Columbia River, discovered by 8-year-old Brian Ingram.

Bettmann - Getty Images

Though suspects emerged throughout the years, all were ruled out for various reasons by the FBI. And in 2016, the FBI officially closed the book on the D.B. Cooper investigation, choosing to devote its resources elsewhere.

But that hasn't stopped citizen detectives like Eric Ulis from trying to crack the Cooper case.

Why Do We Still Care About D.B. Cooper?

Which brings us back to the "Why?" What keeps people coming back to D.B. Cooper, long after the crime, the investigation, and that entire era of unsecured, casual air travel are all consigned to the history books?

Sean and Carrie McCabe, whose true-crime podcast Ain't It Scary? with Sean & Carrie covered Cooper in an early episode, have a hunch about why the intrepid airplane criminal in the cool eyewear remains in the public consciousness.

"First, like all of the best true crime stories, it's because there's no clear answer," Sean tells PopMech. "We don't know who the guy was, and we likely never will know for sure. And that leaves room for everyone to bring their own opinion and their own investigator hat, and speculate without any fear of ever really being proven wrong."

Carrie suggests that it's also the nature of Cooper's crime that keeps people coming back to it:

"D.B. Cooper was kind of a cool figure. He didn't hurt anybody (aside from maybe himself) in his crime, he didn't use aggressive physical force. I think that makes him an object of fascination that people can be more openly interested in than, say, a serial killer. Being interested in true crime often comes with a lot of caveats - "I don't like Jeffrey Dahmer, I just like learning more about his pathology", etc. - but with Cooper's relatively victimless crime, you don't have to feel creepy if you're interested."

"We don't have to co-sign Dan Cooper's actions for a little tiny part of us to wish we were him," Sean concurs.

When pressed if they think the D.B. Cooper case will ever be solved, the podcasters concede it's unlikely. "God, I'm trying to think of the "fun" answer, but... no?" Sean says. "Probably not. None of the money has ever been spent, which makes me think our 'Mr. Cooper' probably died in the jump."

"I think the only way it'll ever be cracked is if...," Carrie adds, "...at this point, someone comes forward with concrete proof that their deceased relative was Cooper, like a stack of the missing money."

Or maybe, just maybe, some residue of alloy on a tie could be the thing to crack this whole case wide open...

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The European Union's home affairs commissioner, Ylva Johansson , has confirmed the Commission is investigating whether or not it broke recently updated digital governance rules when her department ran a microtargeted political ad campaign aiming to drive support for a controversial child sexual abuse material (CSAM)-scanning proposal she's spearheading.

But at a committee hearing in the European Parliament today she deflected MEPs' enquiries for her to give more details about the ad campaign.

The governance regulation concerned is the Digital Services Act (DSA), which includes provisions relating to online advertising -- including a prohibition on the use of sensitive personal data, such as political opinions, for targeting ads. While the ads in question ran on X (formerly Twitter) -- which is already expected to be compliant with the DSA, having been designated by the Commission as a so-called Very Large Online Platform (VLOP) back in April.

The Commission itself, meanwhile, not only proposed this pan-EU law but is responsible for oversight of VLOPs' DSA compliance. So -- tl;dr -- if EU officials have used X's ad-targeting tools to break the bloc's own digital rulebook it's the very definition of an awkward situation.

The existence of the Commission's microtargeted ad campaign seeking to drum up support for its proposed CSAM-scanning law was spotted last month by technologist, Danny Mekic. An article with his findings ran in Dutch newspaper, De Volkskrant, earlier this month.

Using public ad transparency tools the DSA requires VLOPs to provide, Mekic found the Commission had run a paid advertising campaign on X, targeting users in the Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, Finland, Slovenia, Portugal and the Czech Republic -- countries that were not supportive of Johansson's CSAM-scanning proposal according to leaked minutes from a September 14 meeting of the European Council, a co-legislative body that's involved (along with MEPs) in determining the final shape of the CSAM law.

Per Mekic, the Commission's ad campaign, which apparently racked up millions of views on X, insinuated that opponents of the proposed legislation did not want to protect children -- messaging he dubbed "a form of emotional blackmail".

The ads included what he suggested is a misleading claim that the majority of Europeans support the proposal -- but which is based on a survey that highlighted "only the benefits but not the drawbacks of the proposed legislation". Other surveys, by research firms YouGov and Novus, that highlighted the drawbacks showed "virtually no support" for the plan among the European population, his post also pointed out.

Going into more detail of the microtargeting used by the Commission, Mekic wrote: "Xs Transparency Report shows that the European Commission also used microtargeting to ensure that the ads did not appear to people who care about privacy (people interested in Julian Assange) and eurosceptics (people interested in nexit, brexit and spanexit or in Victor Orban, Nigel Farage, or the German political party AfD). For unclear reasons, people interested in Christianity were also excluded.

"After excluding critical political and religious groups, Xs algorithm was set to find people in the remaining population who were indeed interested in the ad message, resulting in an uncritical echo chamber. This microtargeting on political and religious beliefs violates Xs advertising policy, the Digital Services Act  which the Commission itself has to oversee -- and the General Data Protection Regulation [GDPR]."

During an exchange of views with the European Parliament's civil rights, justice and home affairs (LIBE) committee this afternoon, Johansson admitted the EU's executive is investigating the matter.

Initially she had sought to dismiss criticism over the legality of the microtargeting -- claiming in a tweet earlier this month (embedded below) that the campaign was "100%" legal.

Asked by the LIBE committee about the discrepancy between her tweet and the existence of an investigation Johansson said she had been given "new information" related to DSA compliance that merited looking into.

As my services have been directly accused of illegal acts I think it is import I step in:

1. @EUHomeAffairs have followed the guidelines & the law 100%

2. The promotion of our proposal is standard normal practice

3. This proposal is about protecting children from sexual abuse https://t.co/zSSAu3684P  Ylva Johansson (@YlvaJohansson) October 13, 2023

"When I made a tweet on the 100% legal [point] that was based on the information I had. But I have to be very open; then I got other information that there could be question marks on the compliance with the DSA -- and I take this very seriously," she told the committee. "If that is the case then of course there has to be consequences on that. So that's why it's important that we have to look into [it]. Of course we always have to comply with the regulation. There's no question about that."

The LIBE committee repeatedly pressed Johansson to provide detailed about the microtargeted ad campaign -- but she declined to do so, saying she did not have any information about it and that it was for her "service", who she suggested had been responsible for the campaign, to answer. So there was no explanation about why, for instance, Christians had been explicitly excluded from the Commission's microtargeting.

She also avoided giving a direct response to accusations by MEPs that the use of political microtargeting by the Commission was anti-democratic -- opting instead to mount a general defence of its right to promote its proposals. She also listed a number of other departments within the Commission she said had previously used ads to promote separate legislative proposals.

"I think that the commission should defend and explain and promote our proposals. We do that and we have done that. And I think it's a good practice to do so. Because we are we are taking stance and we should defend our stance," she told the committee.

A number of MEPs pushed back -- including by pointing out that there are more appropriate channels for the Commission to engage directly and transparency with co-legislators than opaque behavioral ad targeting on platforms like Twitter/X.

"One principle of democracy is that we have procedures because the end doesn't justify the means," opined MEP Sophie in 't Veld. "And European Commission has the right to be very attached to its legislative proposals but there are privileged channels for the European Commission to communicate with the two legislators and others -- not an ad campaign on Twitter."

Despite a lot of pushback, the committee was unable to extract any other lines from commissioner on the ad campaign. But at the end of the session she did agree to respond to it in writing with some missing answers "as soon as possible" (albeit, avoiding agreeing to do so by the end of the week, as one MEP had asked).

Commercial influence

While many of the questions directed at her over the 1.5-hour long hearing focused on the controversy that's sprung up around the ad campaign, parliamentarians also pressed the commissioner on a number of other issues -- including concerns about the extent of commercial lobbying around the CSAM-scanning proposal.

This has been a topic of intense interest, especially following a report by investigative journalists published last month by BalkanInsight which looked at close contacts between Johansson's department and companies with CSAM-scanning and other child safety tools to sell.

One of the journalists involved in that investigation, Apostolis Fotiadis, had also been invited by the committee to participate in the exchange of views -- and he took the opportunity to defend their reporting from direct public attacks by Johansson.

In a blog post ahead of today's hearing -- which deploys a crisis-PR-esque headline claim of "setting the record straight" -- she criticized the article as "a series of insinuations looking for a home"; claiming it paired an outline of "a selection of meetings I had, of events I attended, or conferences I addressed" with "a conspiratorial tone" in an attempt "to create the impression of financial influence where there is none".

Fotiadis was asked by the LIBE committee about the accusation that the journalists had, essentially, been spreading disinformation -- and specifically whether he believed Johansson and the Commission's response to it amounted to a restriction on media freedom. He responded by saying he did not think that was the case. But went on to express surprise at how the Commission had reacted to the scrutiny -- to its instinct to deploy "spin-doctor" tactics to try to discredit the article, rather than engaging with the substance of the concerns being raised.

The Commission risks straying close to making attacks on journalists by using such tactics, Fotiadis warned -- adding: "You cannot just dismiss everything by calling fake news" -- before also noting that Johansson's office had declined multiple interview requests ahead of publication of the article.

Responding to a question from the committee about the reporting he said documents obtained by the journalists included email threads between Commission officials in Johansson's department, DG-Home, and a "key stakeholder" advocating for the use of technology for CSAM-scanning -- which indicated what he described as "privileged access" that "speaks directly to cooperation" and goes "way beyond" mere consultation or exchange of views on the proposal.

"It's an official chain discussing invitation, how the stakeholder would be able to allocate experts that would speak in workshops -- first attended by representatives of the Member States, and then afterwards actually by ministers in the Council in a meeting chaired by commissioner Johansson. So when we say facilitate, it's obvious that the EU officials discuss what kind of experts will be available from this particular stakeholder to attend these meetings and to present the point of view, which seems to be a privileged access," he explained.

"Also in the same email thread there's mention of EU officials being allocated to specifically attend the cooperation between the stakeholder and DG-Home on the proposal, which to our understanding is something that goes way beyond the level of consultations or exchange of views or exchange of opinions on the proposal and speaks directly to cooperation."

The committee took the opportunity to press Johansson about her contacts with companies and other lobbyists during the drafting of the CSAM-proposal, with MEPs saying they want clear answers to the allegations of commercial interest and heavy lobbying when the Commission was setting up and drafting the proposal.

In the event MEPs got some bare bones detail.

Asked for a list of these contacts, the commissioner responded that she'd met with Google six times; Microsoft, Meta and TikTok three times each; twice with Twitter (X); and once apiece with Apple and Amazon. She also said she'd met with the child safety organizations Thorn (twice) and Brave Movement (twice); and with Tech Alliance and ICANN once apiece.

In wider responses related to concerns about how much commercial interest had influenced the Commission, Johansson highlighted her decision for the CSAM-scanning proposal to be "technology neutral" -- meaning the draft regulation does not support any specific tech solution -- with the suggestion being EU lawmakers had resisted lobbying by companies for a law that would explicitly favor their existing tech tools.

She also denied that only Thorn and Microsoft have technology "that is necessary for the scanning" -- claiming that's "absolutely not true".

"There are no specific technologies mentioned [in the proposal] and I think this is an important part. So there's no specific technology that's been favoured in this proposal," she also told the committee, adding: "So many technologies are being developed all the time -- while we are speaking -- and they will continue to develop. So I think it's important that the legislation has to be technology neutral."

Earlier this week a seminar organized by the European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS), an advisory body to the Commission on data protection law, heard from more than 20 speakers across civil society, academia and industry expressing deep misgivings about the Commission's approach -- including a warning from the EDPS himself that the EU could be at a tipping point for freedom and democracy if it does not turn back from the plan to do non-targeted scanning of private messages.

Johansson had been invited to participate in the seminar but declined to attend. She didn't offer a direct response to the EDPS' concerns today but she did counter a number of arguments heard at the session earlier in the week -- including refuting the suggestion that her proposal amounts to mass surveillance.

"My proposal would not mean that all communication will be scanned. Compared to the situation today it will be much more limited," she claimed, referencing the temporary ePrivacy derogation that currently gives messaging firms a legal basis to scan non-encrypted content for CSAM (but is intended to be replaced by the proposed regulation which, critics contend, will force platforms to scan end-to-end encrypted content too). "Today companies are allowed to scan if they search for child sexual abuse material. That's why we receive these 5.2 million videos and pictures and grooming attempts -- 70% from private communication. If my proposal is adopted, this will be limited."

She also emphasized how the proposal first requires in-scope platforms to deploy prevention measures to try to stop the spread of CSAM and/or prevent abuse of their tools by people intent on abusing children. "First comes prevention. Only if prevention is not enough, then you might be allowed to do detection -- but only after a court decision," she said.

"So only those that really cannot deal with the problem with mitigating measures... and only after a court decision and only during a specific period they will be allowed to do the detection," she went on. "We will also limit the reporting so that we will also receive fewer but hopefully better reports."

Johansson's arguments to MEPs that her proposal does not overreach also lent on the existence of other EU laws -- such as the bloc's data protection framework -- which she suggested will act as balancing checks on the scope of possible CSAM-scanning. "It's also important that we continue to comply with all relevant legislation. For example the GDPR and other requirements, there are no derogation from that in my proposal," she said.

"It's also important -- and I know that's been part of the debate -- that it should not be a slippery slope," she added. "The proposal specifically prohibits using the detection technologies for any other purpose than the detection of child sexual abuse online -- and only with verified indicators of child sexual abuse provided by the EU Centre."

Given her reliance on pointing to the existence of a wider EU legal framework doing the heavy lifting and protecting Europeans' fundamental rights as a strategy to assuage critics, and given she's also invoking respect for the rule of law as a buttress against the risk of content-scanning mission creep, it's doubly relevant that the Commission now finds itself in a bind -- forced to investigate whether its own officials ignored legal requirements in a bid to covertly sweep past critics.
In 2022, Brook MacDonald made what might just be the ultimate downhill track in Nelson, New Zealand. It features jumps, tech, high speeds, and a seemingly endless descent.

Watch MacDonalds POV of a full pull down the amazing track below.

Brook MacDonald, or Bulldog as he is known, is a downhill racer from New Zealand. In 2019, he broke his back at Mont-Sainte-Anne in a gruesome crash. Some said he would not be able to race again.

Bulldog proved the doubters wrong and stormed back onto the scene. Though he has not gotten a top 10 since his injury, he is a consistent threat for the top 20.

For the dream track, MacDonald collaborated with Remy Morton on the project, and they wanted to take it in a unique direction. Morton told Red Bull, A lot of people in downhill say the old-school tracks are best - when its left raw and untouched. But sometimes the more you work the land, the cooler it gets. Having a digger go down the whole track in such a new-school fashion creates a whole new style of riding.

It only seems like a matter of time before Hardline expands to New Zealand!

Watch Red Bulls release video of the track below.

Don't miss another headline from Bike Mag! Subscribe to our newsletter and stay connected with the latest happenings in the world of bike riding.

We're always on the lookout for amusing, interesting, and engaging bike-related videos to feature on our channels. Whether you're a professional rider 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 Bike Mag and our social channels. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch high-quality bike videos.
The Yandex.Go service has been registered as a legal entity in Uzbekistan, the head of Yandex Go in the CIS, Kirill Svintsov, said, Azernews reports, citing .

We work in accordance with the legislation of the republic. We have already been registered as a legal entity in Uzbekistan and confirm that by December 1, we will localize the Yandex Go information service in the country. This means that the service will be provided by a local company subject to applicable taxes. Now we are setting up the processes, Kirill Svintsov said.
Key Insights

The projected fair value for Namoi Cotton is AU$0.35 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity

Current share price of AU$0.36 suggests Namoi Cotton is potentially trading close to its fair value

Peers of Namoi Cotton are currently trading on average at a 15% discount

Does the October share price for Namoi Cotton Limited (ASX:NAM) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. 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. 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 Namoi Cotton

What's The Estimated Valuation?

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

Story continues

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) AU$18.9m AU$4.80m AU$7.10m AU$5.31m AU$4.40m AU$3.91m AU$3.62m AU$3.46m AU$3.37m AU$3.33m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ -25.22% Est @ -17.05% Est @ -11.33% Est @ -7.33% Est @ -4.53% Est @ -2.57% Est @ -1.19% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 7.8% AU$17.5 AU$4.1 AU$5.7 AU$3.9 AU$3.0 AU$2.5 AU$2.1 AU$1.9 AU$1.7 AU$1.6

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$44m

After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 2.0%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 7.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = AU$3.3m (1 + 2.0%)  (7.8% 2.0%) = AU$59m

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$59m ( 1 + 7.8%)10= AU$28m

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is AU$72m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of AU$0.4, 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

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Namoi Cotton as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 7.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.152. 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 Namoi Cotton

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry.

Debt is well covered by cash flow.

Weakness

Interest payments on debt are not well covered.

Expensive based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value.

Shareholders have been diluted in the past year.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Australian market.

Threat

No apparent threats visible for NAM.

Looking Ahead:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it shouldn't be the only metric you look at when researching a company. DCF models are not the be-all and end-all of investment valuation. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Namoi Cotton, we've put together three relevant aspects you should look at:

Risks: As an example, we've found 2 warning signs for Namoi Cotton that you need to consider before investing here. Future Earnings: How does NAM's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered!

PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the ASX 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.
PureWow Editors select every item that appears on this page,, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story You can learn more about that process here. Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

Read the original article on Purewow.

Queen Camilla Parker Bowles, 76, just gave us a major style change and we're loving the bold statement. On October 25, the royal attended a reception at Buckingham Palace and showed off a stylish leopard print dress.

According to Hello! Magazine, she was wearing a midi-length dress designed by Fiona Clare, which is a favorite for the queen. The London fashion brand has been making customized dresses for the royal for a couple of years now.

WPA Pool/Pool/Getty Images

The couture piece is crafted with a satin fabric with a mix of beige, white and black leopard print, along with an open, ruffled collar neckline and long bishop sleeves. Per the site, Queen Camilla paired the chic ensemble with black suede pumps from Eliot Zed, a black leather clutch from Anna Valentine x Charles Laurie London and a Van Cleef & Arpels vintage Alhambra bracelet to bring the whole look together.

WPA Pool/Pool/Getty Images

Camilla joined her husband King Charles III, 74, as they celebrated their longtime relationship between the United Kingdom and Kenya. Other attendees included Guirina Chadha, director and writer of Bend It Like Beckham, Ms Sally Nyinza from the Kenyan Nurses and Midwives Association and Dr. Anne Makena from the Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health at the University of Oxford.

On October 31, the royal couple will be visiting the African country for a week. They will join Kenyan president William Ruto and celebrate 60 years of the country's independence. Per reports, they will be visiting Nairobi City Country, Mombasa Country and other surrounding areas until November 3.

Pascal Le Segretain/Staff/Getty Images

Now, this isn't the first time she's rocked a leopard print. Back in September, the queen wore a similar green and navy number during an evening with French president Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron at the Elysee Palace in Paris. She even wore similar pumps, but opted for a small handbag and gold jewelry (which Hello! says included a gold plate pendant with her grandchildren's initials engraved).

In the last couple of months, Camilla has continued to steal the show in the fashion department. If she's ready to switch up her signature style, we're here for it. We can't wait to see more animal-print make its way into her wardrobe.

How to Achieve Kate Middletons Loose Curls, According to a Royal Hairdresser

Stay up-to-date on every breaking royal family story by subscribing here.

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Robert Irwin

Robert Irwin has made it clear time and again that he's not afraid to get down and dirty when it comes to animal welfare.

In his latest batch of evidence, uploaded to Instagram on Oct. 24, he bottle fed a patient in the Australia Zoo's Wildlife Hospital. Specifically, the footage showed Irwin as he cradled a little animal in his arms as it suckled on a syringe.

Set to an instrumental track by Hollow Coves called "Moments," the video found Irwin in a navy tee, smiling softy down at the furry creature, who was bundled up in what appears to be a sherpa-lined knit beanie.

The conservationist didn't identify the species he was nursing, but based on the shape of its snout, it looks to be a quoll; a carnivorous marsupial native to Australia and New Guinea that probably felt right at home in the warm, pouch-like enclosure.

"One of our most adorable Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital patients currently in care," he captioned the sweet video.

>>> Sign up for Parade's Trending News newsletter and we'll keep you in the know on the viral pop culture moments and celebrity news everyone is talking about <<<

Fans got emotional about the family's legacy in the comments, with one calling them "the purest souls on the planet."

"Your content is always fantastic. Thank you for all you and your family do for the animal kingdom," another wrote graciously.

"Irwin family = wholesome and caring," said another. "This is the legacy of the Irwin family and we all support how wonderful you all are."

Another shared that the 19-year-old's content had inspired them to "want to work with wildlife [and] help sick and injured wildlife." They added, "God bless you Robert ."

"Man yall are too wholesome I wanna cry," another admitted.

The late Steve Irwin's son recently shared of video of himself releasing the first captive-bred Elseya irwinia turtle discovered by his fatherinto a pond for the first time, getting emotional at the "special moment" for the zoo.

We wouldn't be surprised if "Wholesome" was his middle name.

Next: Robert Irwin Fans Dub Him a 'Natural' in Front of the Camera After New Nature Update
The burger chain is rewarding app users with free medium fries alongside any $1 purchase.

Whether you celebrate Friday, Fry-Day, or Fri-Yayweve got some news fresh from the fryer that youll want to hear.

Burger giant McDonalds is famous for decades of Happy Meals, seasonal sweets, stunts, and incomparably flaky apple piea beloved dessert born in a Knoxville, Tennessee franchise back in the late 1960s.



Having accrued fans all over the globeand possibly in outer space, at this pointMcDonalds has turned toward rewarding customers through its digital app. One of the chains recent promotions has us even more excited about making it to the weekend: Free Fries Friday.

Getty Images / Picture Alliance

According to an announcement on their website, McDonalds will be rewarding guests with a free medium French fries with any $1 minimum purchase through the McDonalds app on Fridays through the end of 2023. That means you have 10 weeks of free French fries waiting for you at participating McDonaldsabout 2.5 pounds of free fries, as USA Today reported. Need a suggestion to meet that $1 order minimum? Opt for some of the best sweet tea (and fountain soda) weve ever sipped.



To claim your part of this free-French-fry-frenzy, go to the Deals tab within the McDonalds app, select the Free Fries Friday Deal, and tap Add Deal To Mobile Order. Youll then pay through the app and check-in at the restaurant to snag your fries at the counter, curbside, or in the drive-thru. The deal can be used once per Friday.

If you need to download the app and register for MyMcDonalds Rewards, you can find more information here and earn a free 10-piece Chicken McNuggets with your first app order.

Free fries sound like the perfect accompaniment to some Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings if youd like to opt for an easy side to your Friday night dinner. Dont forget the dipping sauces!



For more Southern Living news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Southern Living.
Spider crawls out of woman's ear in 'traumatic' experience as TikTok video goes viral: 'Crying, throwing up'

A woman has gone viral on TikTok for sharing the details of her too-close-for-comfort encounter with a creepy crawler.

Desirae Kelly (@desiraekelly) of Farmington, Missouri, posted a video of herself sitting at the doctors office, where she waited to be seen for something stuck in her ear.

After the nurse took a closer look into Kelly's ear, the health professional confirmed that there was indeed something in there  and it appeared to be curled up in the back of the woman's ear canal.

ATLANTA WOMAN SLURPS DOWN 48 OYSTERS IN VIRAL TIKTOK  DRIVING HER DATE TO DITCH THE TAB

In the video, which has nearly seven million views, a tearful Kelly reacted with sarcasm about the "wonderful" news as she waited for her ear to be flushed out.

"I am so embarrassed, first of all, because thats so gross, and Im a clean person," the Missouri mom said.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

Desirae Kelly (not pictured) went viral on TikTok for recounting how she found a spider nestled in her ear. See her videos further down in this article.

"But also, its an uneasy feeling  theres a bug in my ear."

The video jumped forward to reveal what was living rent-free in Kelly's ear.

"It was a spider," she said through tears and a shaky breath.

"It was alive. I threw up. Im never sleeping again."

In a second video, posted on Tuesday, she reflected on her "traumatic" experience, starting with how she awoke from a "dead sleep" at 5 a.m. with a strange feeling in her ear.

"I thought it was the tassels on the end of my comforter, so I went back to sleep," she said.

"About 10 or 15 minutes later, I woke up again, and this time  I actually felt something move in my ear."

BARBIE BOTOX GOES VIRAL: WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE NECK-SLIMMING PLASTIC SURGERY TREND

Kelly said she sat "straight up" after feeling the fluttering in her ear and decided to go to Urgent Care the next morning.

The fluttering continued, with some pain, the next day, as Kelly compared it to a "big clump of wax moving" at the base of her eardrum.

Desirae Kelly (not pictured) said on TikTok that she awoke in the middle of the night to a strange feeling in her ear  and eventually felt something moving.

"It was so uncomfortable," she said. "I started to cry in the waiting room."

Once Kelly was brought into a room, the nurse confirmed that what was in her ear was not a moth, but it was definitely something "curled up in the back."

RAGING BEDBUG INFESTATION AT IOWA SENIOR LIVING APARTMENT COMPLEX LEADS TO LAWSUIT

The nurse began to flush out the ear though nothing was moving.

Then the nurse stepped back to refill the water bottle.

"Were not spraying at this point, and I feel stuff moving," Kelly said. "I felt, whatever that was, crawl out of my ear  and I watched out of the corner of my eye something fall and land on my sweater."

Kelly (not pictured) said she felt embarrassed to be seen at Urgent Care because she initially thought she had a wax buildup in her ear.

She wrote as well, "I shouldve known this wasnt just a normal little bug when the nurse jumped back a step."

The nurse collected herself and began pulling on Kellys sweater to free the bug, which was still alive, from her shoulder.

BEDBUGS COULD TRANSMIT MRSA BACTERIA THAT CAUSES STAPH INFECTIONS 'IN SOME SETTINGS,' STUDY SUGGESTS

"As it falls from my shoulder to the floor, I watch it crawl," she said. "I watch this black spider with all eight legs crawl across the f---ing floor."

In what Kelly considered a "fight or flight" response, she said she "screeched" and ran across the length of the office.

"My eyes are wide open, my hand is clutching my chest, as Im, like, trying to breathe because all oxygen has escaped me," she said.

"And all I can say is, Spider."

The spider (not pictured) was still alive when it was flushed from Kelly's ear.

In two minutes, Kelly said she went from trying to breathe to heaving, as she watched the nurses trap the spider in a clear container.

The patient admitted her embarrassment over her initial reaction of "crying and throwing up," joking that she left the office without a bug in her ear or her "dignity."

The nurses confirmed the bug was a common house spider and checked to make sure Kellys ear was free of any remnants, including eggs, limbs or "extra buddies."

"But I am traumatized," she said. "Every night since that night, I have had earplugs in my ears. I dont think I could ever sleep without earplugs again."

"That is the most uneasy, violating feeling ever to quite literally feel a spider crawl out of your ear."

The nurses confirmed that Kellys ear was free of any remnants, including eggs, limbs or "extra buddies."

TikTok blew up with similar uneasiness, with many users expressing their own disgust over Kellys experience.

TikTok user @emill9908 said, "Girl Im traumatized and I wasnt even there."

A user named Hannah commented under the second video, "*Adds ear plugs to cart.*"

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

TikToker @thetruekaren wrote, "Dear algorithm gods, please dont think Im interested in ever reliving any future spider-in-the-ear story."

"I would be screaming for the rest of my life," @kat_v_s sympathized.

Kelly told Fox News Digital on Thursday that going viral has felt "surreal" as her video hit millions of views overnight.

She confirmed that she's sleeping better, now that she's back to her own bed after a week of bunking in her guest room.

"I sleep with earplugs in and I'm not sure I'll ever stop," she said. "There are moments I stop and say, There really was a live spider in my ear."

Since this kind of experience isn't preventable, Kelly suggested seeing a professional about any concerning movements in the ear.

"The nurses were so sweet and passed no judgment like I thought they would," she said. "If I had waited longer, it could have been worse."

She added, "There isn't a way to prevent this, really, but how you respond makes the difference."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle .





Original article source: Spider crawls out of woman's ear in 'traumatic' experience as TikTok video goes viral: 'Crying, throwing up'
Leer en espanol

Arizona is giving four nonprofits $5 million to provide legal help to renters facing eviction.

The funding comes as metro Phoenix eviction filings climbed to almost set a new record in September. The money is coming from American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Community Legal Services based in Phoenix will receive $2.4 million, and $1.3 million will go to Southern Arizona Legal Aid. DNA Peoples Legal Services and the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services and Education will each get $600,000.

Navigating the fast eviction process in Arizona is difficult for many struggling renters. The funds can be used for eviction prevention, fixing damaged credit records so people can rent again, and helping with social security or disability income enrollment.

This funding is a historic, first step towards increasing equal access to justice and will help keep Arizonans housed, keep families safe, and protect the rights of low-income families, said Kevin Ruegg, CEO of the Arizona Foundation for Legal Services & Education.

Theres still some pandemic-related renter aid available for struggling tenants. Information on where and how to apply is available at azevictionhelp.org.

The courts provide eviction-related information for tenants and landlords at www.justicecourts.maricopa.gov and www.azcourts.gov/eviction.

Gov. Katie Hobbs said services provided by the groups to share the $5 million will help families access the housing protection and other critical services they need.

Reach the reporter at catherine.reagor@arizonarepublic.com or 602-444-8040. Follow her on Twitter @CatherineReagor.

Coverage of housing insecurity on azcentral.com and in The Arizona Republic is supported by a grant from the Arizona Community Foundation.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: $5M will help Arizona renters facing eviction. Where to go for help
Gov. Andy Beshear s re-election campaign brought around $850,000 and GOP gubernatorial nominee Attorney General Daniel Cameron. Cameron raised $481,000 in just 15 days.

The governor has had a fundraising advantage over Cameron throughout the contest and had raised nearly $18 million to Camerons roughly $5.3 million throughout the primary and general as of the last reporting period to the Kentucky Registry of Election Finance.

A majority of Camerons fundraising in the last 15 days came from $250,000 in contributions from the Republican Party of Kentucky.

Beshear reported more than 2,300 itemized contributions, with nearly 1,800 of those from Kentucky donors. Of Camerons 766 itemized contributions, 659 came from Kentucky addresses.

In that 15-day span, the Beshear campaign reported spending nearly $2.1 million, of which almost $1.4 million went to buying advertising and more than $500,000 for fundraising. Camerons campaign spent just over a million, with around $886,000 going towards advertisement-related expenses.

Though Beshear has outraised Cameron in every report, the candidates ended this reporting period with similarly diminished amounts of cash on hand. Cameron had a final balance of $425,000 while the Beshear campaign enters the final two weeks before Election Day with $670,000 cash on hand.

While most all publicly available polls show Beshear with a lead over Cameron, political experts on both sides of the aisle have cautioned the public from putting too much stock in state polls.

Beshears campaign manager, Eric Hyers, said in a release that the $850,000 figure proves the campaign has the momentum to win in November.

This final pre-election fundraising report shows our campaign remains in a strong position heading into the final days to reelect one of the most popular governors in the country, Hyers said. Voters are fired up to reelect Andy Beshear and their enthusiasm is clear on the ground, in polling and in all of our fundraising numbers. Throughout this entire race, our campaign has out-raised and out-organized the Cameron campaign, and were ready to win on November 7th.

Down the ballot

While Cameron and Beshear have take up most of the oxygen and airtime this year, candidates for other statewide offices have been working hard to fill their campaign coffers, some of whom have also placed ads on television.

Republican candidate for attorney general Russell Coleman, having raised more than $1.3 million total since announcing his candidacy, has paced the down-ticket in fundraising throughout.

Of the down-ballot candidates who have reported their fundraising totals, heres how much they raised in the last 15 days and how much cash on hand they reported:

GOP nominee for attorney general Russell Coleman - $101,000 raised, $192,000 cash on hand

Democratic nominee for attorney general Pam Stevenson - $41,000 raised, $62,000 cash on hand

GOP Secretary of State Michael Adams, running for re-election - $35,000 raised, $333,000 cash on hand

Democratic candidate for secretary of state Buddy Wheatley - $13,000 raised, -$45,000 cash on hand

GOP candidate for commissioner of agriculture Jonathan Shell - $52,000 raised, $66,000 cash on hand

Democratic candidate for commissioner of agriculture Sierra Enlow - $18,000 raised, $47,000 cash on hand

Democratic candidate for auditor Kim Reeder - $9,000 raised, $89,000 cash on hand

GOP Treasurer and candidate for auditor Allison Ball - $43,000 raised, $175,000 cash on hand

Democratic candidate for treasurer Michael Bowman - $17,000 raised, $31,000 cash on hand

GOP candidate for treasurer Mark Metcalf - $13,000, $43,000 cash on hand
Blake Masters on the campaign trail in 2022. Brandon Bell/Getty Images

Blake Masters is running for Congress following GOP Rep. Debbie Lesko's retirement.

But he lives in Tucson, more than 120 miles away from Lesko's Phoenix-area House district.

He'd previously contemplated another Senate run before Kari Lake got in the race.

Blake Masters is back  and he's running for the House of Representatives.

In a video posted to Twitter on Thursday, the 2022 GOP nominee for US Senate in Arizona announced his campaign for Arizona's 8th congressional district, now an open seat given Rep. Debbie Lesko's decision to retire.

But there's already one major potential issue for his campaign: He lives nowhere near the district.

Masters is a resident of Tucson and still lives there, according to Federal Election Commission records. The 8th district is in the Phoenix metro area, and Masters' home is more than 120 miles from the edge of the district.

On his campaign website, the 2022 candidate seemingly acknowledges that he doesn't actually live there.

"I'm thrilled at the opportunity to be your next Congressman, here in Arizona's 8th District," he wrote. "I campaigned hard in the West Valley during my run for US Senate, and fell in love with its people and its places."

And Masters has another challenge: He's on a collision course with lots of his former allies on the Trump-aligned right.

Abe Hamadeh, the 2022 GOP nominee for attorney general, is already running for the seat. Hamadeh has locked up the endorsement of former GOP gubernatorial nominee Kari Lake, other Trump-world figures, and local officials in Arizona. In 2022, Masters, Lake and Hamadeh ran as a unified ticket.

But Hamadeh also appears to live just outside the district in neighboring Scottsdale, according to Federal Election Commission records.

Meanwhile, Lesko has endorsed Ben Toma, the speaker of the Arizona House, though he has not yet announced a campaign.

One recent poll found Hamadeh leading Masters by 6 points.

Masters had reportedly been considering mounting a comeback Senate campaign before Lake announced her own Senate bid. But when Insider asked several of Masters' former political allies if they would back a second campaign, none of them said they would.

"I've got to focus on my own race in Missouri," said Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri.

"Let's see what he actually wants to do first," said Sen. JD Vance of Ohio.

In 2022, Masters benefited from millions in outside spending from tech billionaire Peter Thiel.

But Thiel indicated earlier this year that he plans to withdraw from political spending, suggesting that Masters will have to compete without that financial largesse.

As of the end of September, Masters' Senate campaign owed more than $820,000 in debt, most of which was owed to Masters himself.

Read the original article on Business Insider
The trial of a Bloomfield man charged with felony child abuse that had been scheduled for early October has been rescheduled for next year, but the mans ex-wife  who also faces a felony charge for failing to report the abuse  will meet with prosecutors this week to discuss testifying against her former spouse.

Joseph Bresch was charged with a first-degree felony count of child abuse (results in great bodily harm) in November 2021 by the San Juan County District Attorneys Office. He is accused of causing significant injuries to a 2-month-old girl who had suffered more than 30 fractures when she was taken to the hospital.

Breschs jury trial is scheduled to begin May 20, 2024, in District Court.

Dustin OBrien, chief deputy prosecutor for the District Attorney's Office, said Oct. 24 that he and other prosecutors were scheduled to meet with Breschs ex-wife Michelle Bresch this week to discuss her testimony. OBrien said the woman has been enlisted by his office to testify against her former husband, and if her testimony is consistent with what she has told authorities about her ex-spouse, her felony charge would be dismissed.

Shellie Patscheck, Michelle Breschs attorney, did not respond to a request for comment from The Daily Times on Oct. 24.

According to court documents, Joseph and Michelle Bresch were divorced in 2019, approximately two years before the alleged abuse took place.

OBrien said his office normally does not like to compel witnesses to testify under the threat of a felony charge, but he said recent New Mexico Court of Appeals rulings have made it increasingly difficult for prosecutors to use immunity as a tool to compel such testimony.

Child's injuries were numerous, severe

According to The Daily Times archives, Joseph Bresch was arrested by Bloomfield police in late 2021 after emergency medical personnel responded to a report of an infant not breathing at a Bloomfield residence. Police were told that some of the childs injuries looked suspicious, and the infant had to be placed on a ventilator and transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque for treatment.

Michelle Bresch, who was described in court documents as Joseph Breschs girlfriend at the time of the incident, told police they took the child out of a car seat when the infant stopped breathing.

According to doctors at the San Juan Regional Medical Center and UNM Hospital who treated the child, the child's injuries included approximately 20 broken ribs, two fractured clavicles, fractures in both arms and legs, and a fractured finger. The infant also had a cauliflower ear, burst blood vessels in the left eye and a severe laceration to the neck. Police said they believed the infant suffered the injuries between Oct. 8 and Oct. 24, 2021, according to court documents.

Michelle Bresch told police after she and her ex-husband were taken into custody on Oct. 27, 2021, that she believed he was responsible for the childs injuries, pointing to his previous child abuse conviction in Nevada. Court documents show Joseph Bresch served seven years in prison in that case.

The child in the current case against Joseph Bresch was placed with a foster family by the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department. OBrien said it is his understanding that the agency intends to reunite the child with her mother.

Mike Easterling can be reached at 505-564-4610 or measterling@daily-times.com. Support local journalism with a digital subscription: http://bit.ly/2I6TU0e.

This article originally appeared on Farmington Daily Times: DA says mother will testify against ex-husband in child abuse case
This article was first published in the State of Faith newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox each Monday night.

About six years ago, the Supreme Court was preparing to hear two cases involving accusations of religious discrimination.

In the first, a Christian baker named Jack Phillips argued that Colorado officials unlawfully attacked his faith in the process of determining that his refusal to design a cake for a same-sex wedding violated the statess anti-discrimination law.

In the second, those challenging then-President Donald Trumps ban on travelers from a handful of Muslim-majority countries claimed that the ban needed to be overturned because it was motivated by anti-Muslim bias, among other things.

What stood out about those cases to Thomas Berg, a professor of law and public policy at the University of St. Thomas School of Law in Minneapolis, was that there was little-to-no overlap between the groups that filed Supreme Court briefs in support of the Christian baker and the groups that filed briefs in support of the Muslim community. People concerned about religious discrimination in one case didnt seem to see it in the other.

To Berg, that situation was a symptom of a much bigger issue: Americans increasingly make religious freedom protections contingent on someones politics or religion. Were not being consistent and, in that way, were putting the whole concept of religious freedom at risk.

Related

In his latest book, Religious Liberty in a Polarized Age, Berg describes this problem in detail and aims to convince readers that something needs to change. People with different politics and of different faiths dont have to become the best of friends, he writes, but they do need to respect one another and realize that their own freedom hinges on guaranteeing freedom for others.

Last week, I spoke with Berg about his book and about the cycle of polarization thats threatening the future of religious freedom.

Deseret News: Why did you want to write this book?

Thomas Berg: I wanted to make the case for religious freedom as a protection for people and as a good thing for society, to show that it can calm fear and reduce resentment.

I also wanted to write a book that would be detailed enough to answer academic and jurisprudential questions, but also accessible enough to help people who have an interest in the subject but arent lawyers.

DN: Why do people need to be reminded of religious freedoms power right now?

TB: Particularly in the last 15 years, religious freedom disputes have become part of the cycle of polarization, part of a broader division into two mega-identities thats affecting the whole country.

When it comes to religious freedom, were, in some ways, repeating the pattern of divisions seen during the Reformation era. Conflicts between Protestants and Catholics at that time gave rise to religious freedom as we know it because it was a solution to them.

In his Memorial and Remonstrance, James Madison wrote about the torrents of blood spilled in the old world over religious disputes. He noted that attempting to solve such disputes by imposing one side or the other through the government has never worked and actually only makes things worse.

The remedy then and now is to give full and equal freedom to all.

DN: When you mentioned religious freedom getting caught up in the cycle of polarization, what came to my mind first was political battles between Democrats and Republicans. But just like the Protestants and Catholics did, different faith groups definitely still fight about religion.

TB: Yes, like evangelical Christian attacks on Muslims. Pat Robertson, for example, has repeatedly said that Islam is not a religion, that its actually a political movement designed to take over the country.

Ironically, thats the same thing being said now about evangelical Christians. That shows that when you attack the religious freedom of another group, your arguments can rebound back and hurt you.

So much of what Im trying to do in the book is to try to emphasize that point. Im trying to do it in a way that increases sympathy across ideological lines rather than magnifies differences.

DN: In my interviews tied to Supreme Court cases, Im often struck by the lack of sympathy for conservative Christians. Some people have decided that they had enough time in power and should let other people win now.

TB: Yes, even if people dont openly say that, sometimes that feeling is whats driving the dynamics.

Of course, when their opponents have that attitude, it impels conservative Christians to hang on even more tightly to whatever power they have and to try to leverage that power in as many ways as possible. Its a recipe for continued conflict.

Its like in the Reformation era, when Protestants would say that the government had been the tool of the Catholic Church for too long and that it was time to undo that, but then Catholics would say we have to get government back because the Protestants are going to use it against us.

Its a feature of the cycle of polarization that you just continuously respond to what somebody else did to you before as they respond to what you did to them before.

DN: So how do we break the cycle?

TB: Its important to affirm a degree of freedom for the other side and to try to do so based on sympathy not necessarily for that sides views but for the predicament they find themselves in as a result of holding those views.

In other words, conservative Christians do not have to accept same-sex marriage as theologically or morally sound in order to make some room for nondiscrimination laws protecting LGBTQ people.

And progressives and gay rights advocates do not have to agree with conservative Christians theological views in order to say that members of conservative faiths should be allowed to follow their beliefs when operating social service organizations and other institutions.

DN: In our current political and religious landscape, who needs to make the first move to heal religious freedom debates? Is this something that politicians need to model?

TB: Its not so much who makes the first move that matters. What matters is that people see that healing is possible, because the immediate, reflexive reaction that many people have is that its not possible to reach bipartisan solutions here.

We shouldnt forget that in Utah, one of the deepest red states, lawmakers (in 2015) passed a state-wide LGBTQ rights law with substantial religious protections. It was quite remarkable. People said it couldnt happen.

I finished the book with some quotes from the head of Equality Utah who said the legislation really did improve the culture of dialogue between conservatives and LGBTQ people in Utah, that it made a difference.

A step like that wont solve every issue, but it can make the atmosphere much better.

After Utah, people said that Utah is unique, and that something like that could never happen at the federal level.

But in December, Congress passed the Respect for Marriage Act, which secured, legislatively, the right of same-sex couples to marry. At the same time, the bill included I think signifiant religious liberty protections for traditional organizations. That law made it through the filibuster threat and passed only because of those religious liberty protections.

In the book, I analogize our current polarization to a really tight knot in a rope or in your shoelaces. You have to pick at the knot in one specific place at a time to free it up a little bit.

DN: I love that knot analogy. Is there anything else you want to add?

TB: I want to be clear that I dont argue for religious freedom solely as a means to reduce conflict and make the American government work better.

It does reduce conflict and make the government work better, but, at the heart of it, religious freedom is the right of the human person to pursue the deepest questions of life and to pursue a relationship with the divine however one understands that concept. Its a central aspect of human dignity.

Theres a full chapter in the book about religious freedom as a matter of personal dignity and person identity.

Fresh off the press

Relatives of a former U.S. representative were among those killed in Gaza in a church hit by bomb strike

Natalee Holloways case taught me to be scared

A video of a Catholic nun tackling someone went viral. What made things turn violent?

Term of the week: St. Porphyrius Church

The Greek Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius is the oldest active church in Gaza. It serves as a spiritual home to many of the Christians in the area, as well as many Palestinian Christians who have family in Gaza but no longer live there themselves. It also regularly transforms into a place of refuge amid fighting between Israel and Hamas.

The church was originally constructed in the fifth century, but it was overhauled in the 12th. Its named after St. Porphyrius, a former bishop of Gaza who became famous for destroying pagan temples and winning converts to Christianity.

Last week, St. Porphyrius sustained damage during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. The church compound was hit as the Israel Defense Forces launched bombs toward a nearby Hamas command center. At least 18 people sheltering in St. Porphyrius were killed in the bombing, and others were injured, according to The Washington Post.

What Im reading ...

The Israel-Hamas war has further complicated the already difficult work of building bridges between Jews and Muslims. Its never been harder to walk the path toward interfaith friendships than it is today, according to Aziza Hasan and Andrea Hodos, who spoke about their group for Muslims and Jews, NewGrounds, in an interview with The New York Times.

In a new survey on friendship, Pew Research Center investigated whether age affects Americans social opportunities. And it definitely seems to: Pew found that older adults are more likely than younger ones to have a large friend group. About half of adults 65 and older (49%) say they have five or more close friends, compared with 40% of those 50 to 64, 34% of those 30 to 49 and 32% of those younger than 30, Pew reported.

Dont miss my colleague Katie McKellars beautiful story on a young man who is determined to raise awareness of wild horses in the West.

Odds and ends

Ive long known that its difficult to choose paint colors during a home renovation project, but I may have underestimated how difficult. The Washington Post recently pointed out that Sherwin-Williams alone offers nearly 200 shades of white.

Where do you stand on Halloween decorations? Im happy to put some pumpkins outside by the front door, but I rarely do more than that. You can imagine my surprise, then, when I discovered that Americans will collectively spend nearly $4 billion on Halloween home decor this year. Now thats scary!
Cargo ship Verity crash - latest: P&O passenger cruise diverted to help in North Sea search after fatal crash

Rescue divers are searching for signs of life on a British cargo boat that crashed and sank this morning as four sailors remain missing.

One sailor has died and two have been rescued, reveal German authorities.

The four missing crew members may be alive and sheltering inside the vessel on the sea floor, the spokesperson said during a press conference alongside the German maritime search and rescue service.

The ships, Polesie and Verity, collided in the early morning about 14 miles south-west of the island of Helgoland, Germanys Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said.

Verity was headed from Bremen, Germany, to the English port of Immingham. The other ship, the Bahamas-flagged Polesie, remained afloat with 22 people on board.

A P&O cruise called the Iona which was travelling from Hamburg is helping with the urgent rescue mission, confirmed officals.

According to reports, passengers were panicked when there was an onboard Captain announcement at 6am this morning.

A spokesperson for P&O Cruises said: P&O Cruises Iona is currently involved in a search and rescue operation off the coast of Germany.

The incident is ongoing and Ionas cooperation complies with international maritime law as well as being consistent with the companys moral and legal obligations.

Missing cargo ship updates

One dead in North Sea cargo ship collision

A map of marine traffic

P&O liner joins rescue mission

A map to show where the ship sunk

What we know so far

The rescue mission so far

Tuesday 24 October 2023 17:45 , Lydia Patrick

A search and rescue operation began after the British-flagged Verity hit a larger cargo ship, Polesie, about 14 miles (22.5km) south-west of the German island of Heligoland at around 5am on Tuesday.

While the larger, Bahamas-flagged Polesie stayed afloat, the Verity, which had departed from Bremen, Germany, and was destined for the port of Immingham on the east coast of England carrying steel coils, became submerged.

Shortly afterwards a signal from the ship was lost, German authorities said, and wreckage was found.

Searches are continuing involving several ships, aircraft, and a P&O cruise ship, with rescuers preparing to dive 98ft (30m) to the wreckage.

Robby Renner, Germanys head of Central Command for Maritime Emergencies, told a news conference in Cuxhaven it is possible the remaining crew are still alive inside the sunken vessel and that his team is doing everything humanly possible to rescue them.

Michael Ippich, of the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service, said the water temperature at the time of collision was 12C (54F), which people can survive for about 20 hours.

Mr Ippich told reporters: The conditions on the spot are extremely difficult.

Because of the weather and visibility, its incredibly difficult to conduct such an operation.

A spokesman for P&O Cruises told the PA news agency: P&O Cruises Iona is currently involved in a search and rescue operation off the coast of Germany.

Handout photo showing search lights scanning the water near to where the British cargo ship Verity sank following a collision with the Bahamas-flagged vessel Polesie in the North Sea (PA)

Where did the Verity go missing?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 17:11 , Lydia Patrick

The ships, Polesie and Verity, collided in the early morning about 22 kilometers (14 miles) southwest of the island of Helgoland, Germanys Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said.

Where did the Verity go missing?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 17:02 , Lydia Patrick

The ships, Polesie and Verity, collided in the early morning about 22 kilometers (14 miles) southwest of the island of Helgoland, Germanys Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said.

Watch - Rescuers search sunken British ship for signs of life after fatal North Sea collision

Tuesday 24 October 2023 16:31 , Lydia Patrick

Remaining missing sailors could survive for 20 hours'

Tuesday 24 October 2023 16:00 , Lydia Patrick

The remaining missing sailors could survive for 20 hours in 12C waters say the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service.

We are now doing everything humanly possible to rescue more people alive, the head of the emergency command, Robby Renner, said at a news conference in Cuxhaven.

Several rescue ships and aircraft taking part in the search had not located the missing crew members by mid-afternoon.

Rescuers were considering the possibility that they were still inside the Verity, and planned to send divers down to the wreck to check whether there are any signs of life, Mr Renner said.

The Verity cargo ship had departed from Bremen, Germany (Alamy/PA)

A graphic to show where the Verity went missing

Tuesday 24 October 2023 15:30 , Lydia Patrick

British ship crash in North Sea - crew missing



The British inland bulk carrier Verity sank near the German coast after colliding with the bulk carrier Polesie earlier today. #AIS data shows 14 tugs in the area as rescue operations are underway.#marinetraffic #NorthSea pic.twitter.com/uDGbSx4wlM  MarineTraffic (@MarineTraffic) October 24, 2023

Mapped - Where the Verity sank

Tuesday 24 October 2023 15:00 , Lydia Patrick

Missing sailors may be alive say German Maritime Search and Rescue service.

Tuesday 24 October 2023 14:30 , Lydia Patrick

Divers are looking for signs of life on a freighter that sank in the North Sea after colliding with another vessel, a spokesperson for the German Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said on Tuesday.

The four missing crew members may be alive and sheltering inside the vessel on the sea floor, the spokesperson said during a press conference alongside the German maritime search and rescue service.

The Verity was carrying steel and had 1,300 cubic metres of diesel on board, the spokesperson added.

In Photos - P&O ship the Iona scanning the water near to where the British cargo ship Verity sank

Tuesday 24 October 2023 14:00 , Lydia Patrick

The P&O cruise the Iona is involved with the help and rescue mission (PA Wire)

Cruise goers were awoken to a Captains alert telling them about the collision this morning, reveal reports (PA Wire)

Four of the seven sailors who were on board the Verity remain missing (PA Wire)

What we know so far

Tuesday 24 October 2023 13:37 , Lydia Patrick

One sailor has died and several others remain missing after a British cargo ship has reportedly sunk off the coast of Germany following a collision.

Two cargo ships crashed into each other in the North Sea, with a search currently ongoing for survivors.

One body has been recovered and another two people have been rescued, while four crew members remain missing.

Read the full report by Holly Evans here

One dead and several still missing after British cargo ship in crash in North Sea

How many sailors were on the Verity?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 12:42 , Lydia Patrick

Seven people had been on board the Verity, the central command said, adding that a search was ongoing for the four missing.The Polesie had 22 people on board, none of whom were injured, the central command said.

One rescued man was taken to a hospital on land and the other was on his way to hospital on board the German maritime rescue cruiser Hermann Marwede, it added.

The Verity cargo ship had departed from Bremen, Germany ((Alamy/PA))

One dead in North Sea cargo ship collision

Tuesday 24 October 2023 12:03 , Lydia Patrick

One dead body has been recovered and two people have been rescued in a search and rescue mission after two freighters collided in the North Sea off the coast of Germany, the maritime emergency authority said today.

Seven people were on board the ship Verity, the Central Command for Maritime Services said in a statement, adding that the search was ongoing for the remaining four missing persons.

Number of people missing confirmed

Tuesday 24 October 2023 11:31 , Lydia Patrick

Six people have been confirmed missing after one vessel sank in the early hours this morning say German authorities.

The ships, Polesie and Verity, collided in the early morning about 22 kilometers (14 miles) southwest of the island of Helgoland, Germanys Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said.One of the ships, the British-flagged Verity, is believed to have sunk.

The emergency command said one person was rescued from the water and was being given medical treatment, and rescuers were searching for more. It later said seven people had been on board the ship and six were missing, German news agency dpa reported.

Wind turbines in Helgoland in the German North Sea (Christian Charisius/Reuters)

P&O share update after their cruise joins rescue mission

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:59 , Lydia Patrick

The cruise liner Iona which was returning from Hamburg and headed towards Rotterdam is helping with the rescue mission.

According to reports, people on board were panicked when there was an announcement at 6am this morning alerting customers to what had happened.

A spokesperson for P&O Cruises said: P&O Cruises Iona is currently involved in a search and rescue operation off the coast of Germany.

The incident is ongoing and Ionas cooperation complies with international maritime law as well as being consistent with the companys moral and legal obligations.

Iona is scheduled to be at sea today and this event should have no impact upon tomorrows scheduled call to Rotterdam or the onward itinerary.

Another P&O cruise ship (Getty Images)

German transport minister shares his support

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:36 , Lydia Patrick

Volker Wissing shared his gratitude to the rescue mission who have been searching the area since the early hours of this morning.

Nach der Kollision zweier Schiffe vor Helgoland sind meine Gedanken bei den Besatzungsmitgliedern und ihren Angehorigen. Ich danke den Rettungsteams, die seit dem fruhen Morgen im Einsatz sind. Sie unternehmen alles, um die Vermissten zu retten.  Volker Wissing (@Wissing) October 24, 2023

How big is the boat?

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:34 , Lydia Patrick

The sunken Verity ship is a substantial 91 meters (299 feet) long and 14 meters (46 feet) wide.

The Verity and Polesie collided in the early hours of Tuesday roughly 14 miles off the coast of Heligoland. (Darren B Hillman/CC BY-ND 2.0)

What we know so far

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:24 , Lydia Patrick

A British cargo ship has reportedly sunk off the coast of Germany following a collision, with several people missing as rescuers search for survivors.

Two cargo ships crashed into each other in the North Sea, according to German authorities.

The ships, Polesie and Verity, collided in the early morning about 14 nautical miles south-west of the island of Helgoland, Germanys Central Command for Maritime Emergencies said.

The British-flagged Verity, apparently sank, while the Polesie remains waterborne with its 22 passengers.

One person was rescued from the water and is being given medical treatment, while rescue parties are searching for several more people who remain unaccounted for.

Read the full report by Holly Evans here

Crew members missing after British cargo ship in crash in North Sea

A map to show where the ship sunk

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:20 , Lydia Patrick

P&O liner joins rescue mission

Tuesday 24 October 2023 10:05 , Lydia Patrick

A P&O spokesperson told The Sun their cruise ship Iona has joined the search mission as they try to find missing people.

They are also providing medical help for anyone in need on board the cruiser.

Rhys Johnson, 24, a passenger on the Iona, told The Sun that those onboard were woken just before 6am with an announcement that the crew were helping with the search and rescue operation.

Mr Johnson told The Sun: There are helicopters, search vessels and two of our RHIBs helping.

People are saying...the British ship has sunk. Its incredibly distressing.

We set off for Rotterdam from Hamburg yesterday, and we were about 200 metres away from the ships.

Everyone on here is sad and concerned and in a state of panic.

Map of marine traffic

Tuesday 24 October 2023 09:47 , Lydia Patrick

A map to show when the British ship Verity was last seen.

The green arrow on the right is the Verity, its last position was received five hours and 40 mins ago.

The green arrow to the left is the Bahamas-flagged Polesie which remained afloat after the collision.

Map to show the last position of the Verity (Marine Traffic)

Welcome to our live blog

Tuesday 24 October 2023 09:42 , Lydia Patrick

We will be live reporting the sinking of a British cargo ship off the coast of Germany after it collided with another shop.

So far, one person has been saved from the water and has received medical treatment whilst rescuers scramble to save other crew members.

Follow for live updates
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, V.S. Industry Berhad fair value estimate is RM0.86

Current share price of RM0.91 suggests V.S. Industry Berhad is potentially trading close to its fair value

Analyst price target for VS is RM1.00, which is 17% above our fair value estimate

Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of V.S. Industry Berhad (KLSE:VS) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward.

Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model.

See our latest analysis for V.S. Industry Berhad

Step By Step Through The Calculation

We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years.

Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value:

10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM190.0m RM239.6m RM292.2m RM307.4m RM320.7m RM333.8m RM346.9m RM360.2m RM373.7m RM387.4m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x4 Analyst x1 Est @ 4.33% Est @ 4.10% Est @ 3.93% Est @ 3.82% Est @ 3.74% Est @ 3.68% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 12% RM170 RM192 RM210 RM197 RM184 RM172 RM160 RM148 RM138 RM128

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM1.7b

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 3.6%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 12%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = RM387m (1 + 3.6%)  (12% 3.6%) = RM4.9b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM4.9b ( 1 + 12%)10= RM1.6b

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is RM3.3b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of RM0.9, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out.

dcf

Important Assumptions

We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. 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 V.S. Industry Berhad as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 12%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.199. 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 V.S. Industry Berhad

Strength

Earnings growth over the past year exceeded its 5-year average.

Debt is not viewed as a risk.

Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows.

Weakness

Earnings growth over the past year underperformed the Electronic industry.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Electronic market.

Opportunity

Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market.

Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio.

Threat

Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year.

Moving On:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Instead the best use for a DCF model is to test certain assumptions and theories to see if they would lead to the company being undervalued or overvalued. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For V.S. Industry Berhad, we've put together three fundamental elements you should consider:

Risks: For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for V.S. Industry Berhad that you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does VS's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Malaysian stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
April McLaughlin, the Chandler woman charged with 55 counts of animal abuse, requested an appeal hearing to regain the rights to 13 dogs seized by the city.

A Chandler woman accused of neglecting 55 handicapped dogs has lost her bid to regain custody of some of the animals, a Chandler Municipal Court judge ruled on Wednesday.

A Chandler Municipal Court judge ruled against McLaughlin's bid to regain custody of the dogs in a hearing on Oct. 11.

In a message sent to The Arizona Republic, the Arizona Humane Society said that it has been caring for the dogs seized from McLaughlins residence for more than a month. It added that those dogs required medical attention and special mobility assistance due to McLaughlin's care.

The Humane Society said it had already reunited more than 40 dogs with their former owners or rescue groups and were hoping to give the animals still in their care that same experience.

More on this case: Chandler woman told police she had a hoarding problem, court records say

The Arizona Humane Society said they will continue to hold the 13 dogs until Chandler officials share the next steps for the dogs.

McLaughlin ran an animal rescue out of her Chandler home until Sept. 22, when police got a warrant to search her home. Chandler police had received multiple complaints of animal abuse on the property.

During the search, officers found that none of the 55 dogs had access to water and the residence was filled with urine and feces. They also found five dead dogs in a freezer.

The Arizona Humane Society said the dogs are the true victims in this case and urged Arizona residents to advocate for stronger laws against animal abuse.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: April McLaughlin appealing ruling in custody of 13 dogs
This article was originally featured in Foreign Policy, the magazine of global politics and ideas. For news, expert analysis, and background on the conflict, read FPs latest coverage of the Israel-Hamas war.

While Israel and Hamas remain locked in conflict, the diplomatic spotlight is shifting toward Egypt. Before the war, Egypt was increasingly marginalized in Arab politics, sidelined by the 2011 uprisings and their aftermath and suffering from an ailing economy. When it comes to Gaza, however, Egypt has critical interests as well as strong leverage. So, although it will prove a challenging partner for the United States, Israel, and many of their Western allies, Egypt is and will continue to be an essential player in the international response to the war.

Egypts history with Hamas is fraught. The Egyptian military has had an enduring interest in the Gaza Strip since it initially occupied it for almost two decades after Israels independence in 1948, and it has remained finely attuned to the areas security environment. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, like many of his predecessors, is deeply hostile to Hamas, which sprung out of Egypts often-outlawed Muslim Brotherhood movement.

Yet Egyptian leaders also have a long history of engagement with Hamas, particularly after it became the de facto ruler of Gaza after seizing power in 2007. In past crises, Egypt has served as an interlocutor with the organization, facilitating prisoner swaps and helping negotiate cease-fires.

Egypt brings a great deal to the table as the world seeks a solution to the conflict in Gaza. Perhaps most immediately, Egypt controls the Rafah crossing, the only official entry point into the Gaza Strip not controlled by Israel. In the past, Egypt has opened and shut this crossing to put pressure on Hamas. Today, it is a vital lifeline for getting international aid into Gaza as the zone faces a massive humanitarian crisis. Rafah is also likely to serve as the exit point for U.S. and other third-country nationals to leave the war zone. Israel also has an interest in working with Egypt to ensure that weapons and other military supplies do not enter Gaza via Rafah.

In addition to Rafah, Hamas has built a network of tunnels from Gaza into Egypt. These tunnels have often enabled people in Gaza to buy smuggled goods, such as livestock and basic consumer products. Israel often acquiesced to this smuggling in order to avert a humanitarian crisis. Yet Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups have also used these tunnels to smuggle weapons into Gaza, and Palestinian fighters have passed through them to travel onward for military training in Lebanon and elsewhere.

Egypt has previously said that it was powerless to stop the tunnel commerce, and some Egyptians undoubtedly profit from the trade. However, a long-running insurgency in the adjoining area of Egypt has pushed the Egyptian military to crack down on the tunnel network in recent years, and Israel is likely to demand an end to this smuggling as part of any broader negotiation effort.

Although Egypt is not sympathetic to Hamas, the militant group has a record of reaching understandings with the Egyptian military. So whereas the Israeli defense minister has vowed to wipe Hamas off the face of the Earth, leaving little room for compromise, the Sisi government has left itself open to finding necessary understandings.

It is hard to predict who will have political power in Gaza in the coming months, but whoever it is will seek to negotiate with the Egyptians. At the very least, they will want international aid to flow into Gaza. Some rump elements of Hamas may also try to preserve at least some capacity to smuggle weapons and other military necessities. They will also likely seek a limited ability to send people out of the strip, including top officials fleeing from Israeli military action. Perhaps most important, whoever is left standing in Gaza will seek an Egyptian guarantee for whatever deal is eventually signed to end the fighting.

Israel, of course, will press Cairo to stop any smuggling and to arrest any Hamas officials who might try to flee to Egypt. Egypt will determine the terms of that agreement.

The people of Gaza and Hamasor any alternative government that arisesdo not have a huge amount to offer Egypt, but they do have some assets. They can use their influence to increase or diminish Egyptian security in the Sinai Peninsula, and they can share smuggling revenues. Their allies can also reward Egyptians who look the other way on smuggling. Most critically, if Egypts alternative to having an understanding with Hamas or its successors is violence and chaos in an area adjoining Egypt, an understanding looks much more attractive.

Egypt has a great deal at stake as it engages in Gaza. Once the center of Arab politics and culture, Egypt has been marginalized as its problems grew and as the worlds attention shifted to the Persian Gulf. For the Sisi government, taking a central role in such a high-profile pan-Arab issue as the Israel-Hamas war brings prestige to a government that is increasingly struggling at home.

Egypt is also not above benefiting economically from its influence in this conflict. Former President Hosni Mubarak negotiated more than $10 billion in foreign debt relief from the United States and its allies in return for Egypts assistance in the 1991 Gulf War. Cairos borrowing spree in recent years has meant that Egypts foreign debt today is many times that amount, and its economy is groaning under the weight of repayments. If Egypt were to play a central role in settling Gaza issues, it would greatly benefit the region. To ensure Cairos support, Gulf governments and Western governments alike would almost certainly need to ensure that Egypt sees financial benefits from doing so.

Egypt also faces legitimate security concerns in Gaza. For more than a decade in northern Sinai, Egypt has been fighting an insurgency that is composed of jihadis, Bedouins, and criminal gangs. Gaza smuggling operations have helped fund and arm the insurgents, and Egypt wants them stopped. Even more, Egypt fears that a flood of refugees from Gaza would destabilize an already troubled part of Sinai, putting demands on jobs and resources and further radicalizing the local population.

Although Egypts rulers have often found common cause with Israel on security issues, they have no intention of further abetting the depopulation of the Palestinian territories. After three-quarters of a century, the Egyptian public remains deeply sympathetic to the Palestinian cause. They would see any resettlement of Palestinians on Egyptian soil as a likely permanent arrangement, fearing a repeat of past Palestinian refugee flows that ended the same way, as well as a betrayal of Palestinians rights to their land.

However, the United States is leading much of the diplomacy on Gaza, and for Washington, the Sisi government is a difficult partner. The U.S. government recently decided to withhold $85 million in previously earmarked military assistance to Egypt over human rights concerns, and some members of Congress were pressing to cut aid even more.

And earlier this month, prosecutors revealed a shocking indictment alleging that Egyptian intelligence had recruited U.S. Sen. Bob Menendez, the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, to use his official position to benefit the Egyptian government in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes. In other words, Washingtons relations with Cairo are particularly strained at the moment.

Arab governments, too, have complained that Egypt can be a trying partner. The Egyptian government has a strong sense of both its own importance and its own interests. Egyptian cooperation comes at a price.

Although Sisis peace conference on the Israel-Hamas conflict this past weekend produced nothing of substance, Egypt will be an increasingly vital player should all parties look for an offramp to this crisis in the coming weeks and months. As a result, the United States is better off working with Egypt than trying to marginalize it.

In the near term, Egyptian cooperation is uniquely necessary in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, including by ensuring the supply of fuel and medicine via Rafah. In the longer term, Egypt will play a crucial role in facilitating whatever political arrangement emerges in Gaza, whether Hamas survives as the government or if a caretaker regime of some sort assumes power. As the frontline Arab state, it will inevitably play some role in enforcing that arrangement as well. Egypt will pursue its own interests given the importance of securing the Egypt-Sinai border, but Cairo can also play an important leadership role, leading the Arab governments in legitimating any deal.

As an agreement emerges, Egypt will surely seek benefits. The United States can assist Egypt financially, mostly via its influence over international financial institutions, to which Egypt owes tens of billions of dollars. The United States can also assist Egypt in its fight against instability in Sinai. While this will help improve Egyptian security, part of this is a U.S. fight, given the presence of transnational jihadis in Sinai who also target the United States. Greater intelligence assistance is one place to begin.

Some will object to engaging more deeply with an Egyptian government that has committed, and continues to commit, serious human rights abuses. Rather than see this as an unsavory but necessary transactional relationship that leaves both sides feeling exploited, however, both countries should view this as an opportunity to recast the donor-client relationship that has proven so corrosive after 45 years.

Neither Egypt nor the United States can solve the crisis in Gaza alone. At the same time, neither can do so without the other. The relationship has often foundered because there has been no important project that the two sides feel equally strongly about. Gaza could prove an enduring irritant to both sides. It is in the interests of both countries to make it into an arena for cooperation.
A missing 14-year-old girl from Des Moines was found safe in Hammond, Indiana on Wednesday night.

Police issued an Amber Alert just before 8 p.m. Wednesday for Nina Williams, who was last seen in the 6100 block of Creston Avenue at approximately 3:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Williams was located with her mother, Jessica Williams, who does not have custody, according to a news release from the Des Moines Police Department.

Additional details were not available Wednesday night.

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: Missing Des Moines girl found safe in Hammond, Indiana after Amber Alert
The Amarillo City Council meeting went deep into the evening hours Tuesday with a packed house to discuss a city ordinance that would establish the city as a sanctuary city for the unborn.

More than 40 people spoke in public comments on both sides of the issue, including some from outside of the Texas Panhandle and from as far as way as New Mexico - among them anti-abortion advocates such as New Mexico state senator David Gallegos of Eunice, N.M.

The meeting lasted about seven hours, with most of the time spent on the discussion of the ordinance, which would allow private citizens to sue other private citizens for assisting someone in the travel to get an abortion. This would bar anyone "knowingly transporting any individual for the purpose of providing or obtaining an elective abortion without regard to where the abortion is performed."

The Amarillo City Council meeting went deep into the evening hours Tuesday with a packed house in city hall to discuss a city ordinance that would establish Amarillo as a sanctuary city for the unborn.

Under this ordinance, women who travel for an abortion would not be liable civilly - just those that travel with them, regardless of if they support the abortion or not. The proposed ordinance is the same one that passed in Lubbock County on Monday, but some members of the council stated that there were some parts of the ordinance that were problematic, such as the trafficking language.

Also attending the meeting was Mark Lee Dickson, the head of Right to Life East Texas who has traveled to hundreds of cities encouraging them to declare themselves as sanctuary cities for the unborn and to pass ordinances that restrict travel through these cities to get an abortion.

According to the Sanctuary City for the Unborn website, there are 67 cities that claim this designation as a sanctuary city and six counties. The vast majority of cities and counties involved are in the state of Texas.

Dickson states that anyone who assists anyone with getting an abortion is an abortion trafficker.

We are not interfering with the right to travel; a woman can still drive to New Mexico for an abortion," Dickson said. What it does not allow is for anyone to assist her in that act.

Dickson likened the driving of a person to get an abortion to someone driving for a bank robbery.

Asked what the value for the citizens of Amarillo to pass this ordinance, with Texas law already allowing private citizens to pursue actions against those involved in assisting an abortion, Dickson said that this ordinance goes further than the heartbeat act with the city having the authority to make civil liability to those assisting in transport from the time of conception, rather than six weeks.

Even if a mother of an unborn child wants an abortion and someone assists them across the state line through Amarillo, that would be a violation of the ordinance, Dickson said. Abortion is against the unborn childs will. We want to see unborn children treated as human beings made in the image of God. What we really need to see from coast to coast is the end of abortion.

Mayor Cole Stanley spoke about Tuesdays meeting and the impetus of the proposed ordinance. He said that Dickson had been in communication with multiple entities, including the previous mayor and other entities that opposed the ordinance being concerned with possible council actions that necessitated this council discussion.

Now that the state has taken action, different parties that are interested this topic have been in contact with the city council and brought forth this particular ordinance that has been floated around, Stanley said. We felt it was a good time to have a good conversation with all of the public that wanted to speak on this, to hear all sides.

Asked if he felt that restricting travel for abortion to and through the city of Amarillo and labeling it trafficking was something he was comfortable with, Stanley said that the way the ordinance is drafted leaves lots of questions for the council with enforcement and unintended consequences.

There is a question with the legality of the term of 'trafficking' and the way that this ordinance uses abortion trafficking as a legally defined term. We have questions (as to) what is the extent of that definition, he said. "There is a question about the legality of the term. So not only do we have questions with the legalities of the enforcement, but we have questions with the definitions.

Stanley said that any proposed ordinance for the city of Amarillo would be based on what state laws handle and what other measures for a municipality are appropriate to take.

If we can find measures that truly protect life and deter this, then I think you would see council act on this, Stanley said.

Addressing concerns by citizens that outside actors such as Dickson and his group are trying to dictate laws for Amarillo, Stanley said that the purpose of this discussion was to make an action organic and homegrown.

"Nobody in that room was in favor of taking something served to Amarillo from outside influences, he said. What you saw was an agreement for our community to look at all options and to let it come from ourselves and not to take something that was handed to us."

Rachel O Leary Carmona from Amarillo was part of a group opposing the passing of an ordinance regarding abortion for the city, saying that the city is trying to be used as a pawn in advancing lawsuits regarding abortion with a judge that is a career anti-abortion activist in Matthew Kacsmaryk.

The council needs to be clear about who they are accountable to: us, the citizens of Amarillo, not outside activists, Carmona said. "We should not allow the hardworking people of Amarillo to bear the cost for implementing their extremist agenda. The city council should leave this issue where it belongs, as a private decision between a woman, her family and her God.

Lindsey London of Amarillo said that she is against the any restrictions above what the state has in place on abortion.

We do not feel it is necessary to create more laws above the state and do not need people from outside the city to make these decisions for our city, she said

Mayor Stanley said that there will be further discussion on a proposed ordinance, and if any action is taken, it will not be a cookie cutter version of what other cities have passed and would be done only with the intention of doing what is best for the city of Amarillo in regard to safety and laws.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo City Council hears arguments on 'sanctuary city for unborn'
The Louisiana congressman, 51, achieved what three previous Republican nominees couldn't, officially replacing former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and allowing Congress to resume urgent budget negotiations

Tom Brenner for The Washington Post via Getty Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson stands with fellow House Republicans after being nominated for the House speaker position on Oct. 24, 2023

Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson won the House speaker election on Wednesday afternoon in a 220-209 vote on party lines, becoming second in line to the presidency and putting an end to an unprecedented three weeks of infighting among House Republicans that effectively froze Congress.

Johnson  an election denier and far-right Donald Trump ally whose congressional tenure has been characterized by his strong opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights  was far from the party's first choice for speaker, though GOP members failed to unite behind its previous three speaker candidates, each of whom was ultimately removed from the ballot.

Related: Mike Johnson Named the GOP's Latest Candidate for House Speaker Hours After Tom Emmer Withdrew: What to Know

Alex Brandon/AP Photo The House speaker election between Republican Mike Johnson and Democrat Hakeem Jeffries on Oct. 25, 2023

The recent chaos in Congress crescendoed when House Speaker Kevin McCarthy was ousted from the role in a first-of-its-kind recall on Oct. 3 that was initiated by far-right Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz.

The House cannot conduct business without a speaker installed, creating a dire situation due to a looming government shutdown on Nov. 17 and the urgent need to decide on funding packages for Israel and Ukraine.

Related: Kevin McCarthy Faces Recall Vote from Far-Right Republicans, a First in 113 Years

TOM BRENNER/AFP via Getty House Speaker-Designate Mike Johnson speaks with former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy before the Oct. 25, 2023, floor vote

After McCarthy's ouster, Republicans initially nominated Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise to backfill his position, but the No. 2 House Republican quickly learned he would not have enough votes to win the formal speaker election on the House floor, and he withdrew himself from consideration for the role the following day.

Tom Brenner for The Washington Post via Getty

Last week, Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan was selected as the new Republican House speaker nominee. But after three rounds of voting in the House speaker election, Jordan was also unable to secure the number of votes needed to win. By Friday, his dreams of the speakership were dashed when members of his own party voted to drop him as the party's House speaker nominee.



Related: House Names Temporary Speaker Pro Tempore After Kevin McCarthy's Historic Ousting

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan was the Republican Party's second choice to replace Kevin McCarthy as House speaker, though he was forced off the ballot after it became clear he could not win

Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer  who is currently House majority whip  was then chosen as the party's third-choice nominee on Tuesday, but he, too, dropped out within only a few hours when it became clear that he would not have the necessary 217 votes to become the House speaker in a floor vote.

That brought the House Republican Conference to nominate Johnson on Tuesday evening, hours after Emmer withdrew his name.

Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson, who was appointed as the GOP House speaker nominee after Minnesota Rep. Tom Emmer withdrew from the race

Who Is Mike Johnson?

Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson, 51, served as a deputy whip for the House GOP and sits on the House Judiciary Committee. He is in his fourth congressional term and, prior to running for speaker, he maintained a relatively low national profile.

Johnson's political positions are largely attributed to his ultraconservative religious views, which have led him to fight for prayer in public schools and lobby against reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ freedoms.

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He has expressed disapproval of the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges, which legalized same-sex marriage in 2015 and is supported by a record 71 percent of Americans. In 2022, he introduced a bill aiming to ban mention of sexual orientation and gender identity in federally funded institutions. Called the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act, it was equated to Florida's controversial "Don't Say Gay" bill.

Johnson also previously led an amicus brief on behalf of more than 100 Republican members of Congress in support of a lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 election results in favor of Trump in four swing states, which was eventually thrown out by the Supreme Court.



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Read the original article on People.
Here's everything Indianapolis voters need to know about Democratic Mayor Joe Hogsett and his Republican challenger, businessman Jefferson Shreve, before casting a ballot in the 2023 mayoral election.

Early voting is underway now, and Election Day is Nov. 7.

Indianapolis mayoral debate: Guns, 2020 protests, housing investors and other takeaways

Early voting: Here's where you can cast a ballot in Central Indiana now

Indianapolis issues: Crime and public safety

After a record-breaking year of gun violence in 2021, homicide rates and public safety have emerged as the likely hinge upon which this election swings, even though homicides and nonfatal shootings are significantly lower this year compared to last year.

Indianapolis gun violence: High homicides, police shootings worry voters as Hogsett and Shreve bid for mayor

Mayor Joe Hogsett's public safety plan: How will Hogsett's big gun violence prevention plan fight crime?

Jefferson Shreve's public safety plan: Republican mayoral candidate Shreve calls for stricter gun control in public safety plan

What works in reducing gun violence? Instead of resorting to violence, these people sought help from Indy's Peace Fellowship

Addressing mental health: Indy's new clinician-led 911 response team hopes to save lives with therapy, not police

Both candidates have promised to lobby the state to pass stricter gun control in Indianapolis, an unusual and risky move for the Republican candidate, Shreve, as his base reacted with outrage.

A Republican risk: Shreve angers base with gun control plan that NRA calls 'pathetic'. Will it pay off?

Police killings at an eight-year record high

This year has been marred by the highest number of police killings since 2016 and a call for the resignation of Indianapolis Police Chief Randal Taylor. Hogsett has promised accountability and transparency, pointing to steps already taken, while Shreve has blamed the police shortage and Hogsett's leadership.

Police accountability: Indianapolis police shootings highest in years. What is going on?

Indianapolis issues: Infrastructure and pedestrian safety

A year after record pedestrian deaths in 2022 and amid a continued lack of sidewalks and persistent pothole problems, Hogsett has touted his record $1.2 billion infrastructure plan and vowed to lobby to change the state road funding formula that shortchanges Indianapolis of much-needed money. The two-term mayor has tried unsuccessfully to change the formula since his first term.

Hogsett's infrastructure plan: Hogsett to put $30M into residential streets and press state for fair funding formula

Shreve vowed to permanently end the downtown mini-park Spark on the Circle and fully open Monument Circle to traffic as part of a downtown development plan that he said would leverage the uncoupling of Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis into two separate universities.

Indianapolis pedestrian, cyclist safety: 'A crisis': After deadliest year for pedestrians, here's what Hogsett, Shreve propose.

Shreve's economic development plan: Shreve unveils downtown plan, including reopening the circle to traffic, adding housing

Rising property taxes: A week before facing Hogsett in Indy's mayor election, Shreve proposes property tax relief

Hogsett and Shreve on bipartisanship

Hogsett's 2024 city budget passed three weeks before the election with unanimous City-County Council support, including from all five Republican councilors.

2024 city budget: Indianapolis passes record $1.5B budget with historic police, infrastructure spending

Shreve has sought to distance himself from national Republican politics and former President Donald Trump while emphasizing the issues that matter to the city are not red or blue. He's made reforming the city animal welfare system a key campaign promise, pledging to donate his mayoral salary to the nonprofit funding the shelter.

Shreve's animal welfare plan: Shreve pledges to improve shelter, donate salary if elected mayor

Hogsett's animal welfare plan: Indianapolis animal shelter to get new $30M facility amid overcrowding problems

Hyperlocal issues: Jefferson Shreve is talking about leaves. What that shows about the Indy mayoral election.

Indianapolis issues: Abortion, Trump, gun control

Its local election season in Indianapolis but national political issues from abortion to Trump have played an outsized role in voters' and campaigns' discourse.

Nationalization of local elections: Abortion, national issues prominent in Indianapolis mayor race

Gun control issues in mayoral election: Shreve demands TV stop running 'false, defamatory' Hogsett gun control ad

Hogsett, Shreve face off in debates

The candidates have faced off in one forum and one debate, with two more debates planned for Oct. 23 and Oct. 26. Black voters, particularly, the African American Coalition of Indianapolis, have pressured both candidates to deliver an agenda that addresses problems that acutely impact Black residents.

In the first mayoral election after the nationwide and local racial justice protests of 2020, issues of race have featured prominently in many voters' minds.

The first Indianapolis mayoral debate: Hogsett, Shreve spar on charter schools, policing, food, at Black issues mayoral debate

WISH-TV Indianapolis mayoral debate: Guns, 2020 protests and housing investors: Indianapolis mayor debate takeaways

FOX59 Indianapolis mayoral debate: 'You weren't listening': Hogsett and Shreve exchange tense words. Here's why.

Hogsett and Shreve's first encounter: Crime, neighborhoods: Hogsett, Shreve face off for first time in Indianapolis mayor race

Campaign season kick-off: 5 takeaways from Hogsett, Shreve remarks at Indy Chamber Hobnob

Partisan loyalty remains strong

No Republican has won countywide since 2011, when Republican Mayor Greg Ballard won his bid for a second term. Indianapolis voters lean about 60-40 Democratic, according to 2022 election results, giving Hogsett a clear advantage.

Nonetheless, Shreve is seen by experts as the strongest opponent against Hogsett in the mayor's three bids for office. This election stands to be a competitive one, with voter turnout in the May primary being highest it has been since 2011.

Indianapolis' Democratic lean: Hogsett leads Shreve in Indianapolis mayor poll. But voters are more split on crime.

Indianapolis city government: Examining Mayor Joe Hogsett's record over his first 2 terms

The most expensive mayoral race in Indianapolis history

Shreve, with a $14.5 million campaign, has been his own biggest donor in the most expensive mayoral race in Indianapolis history. Meanwhile, Hogsett reported raising record-breaking funds this year for his $6.1 million reelection campaign.

Top donors in Indianapolis mayoral race: Shreve bankrolls $13.5M in Indianapolis' most expensive mayoral election. Will it pay off?

Indianapolis mayoral candidates in their own words

Joe Hogsett Q&A: Mayor Hogsett on his public safety record, 2020 protests, guns and abortion

Jefferson Shreve: Republican candidate on gun control, the abortion ban, broken windows policing and crime

Contact IndyStar reporter Ko Lyn Cheang at kcheang@indystar.com or 317-903-7071. Follow her on Twitter: @kolyn_cheang.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Joe Hogsett v. Jefferson Shreve for Indianapolis mayor: What to know
A Pasco School District employee is suing the district and its superintendent, alleging a pattern of retaliation by top administrators for reporting racial discrimination and harassment during his time as transportation director.

The lawsuit was filed Monday in U.S. District Court in Richland by Jose Hernandez, who still works for the district but in another department.

The suit details charges of a hostile work environment, workplace retaliation and racial discrimination.

In court documents, Hernandez describes a broken system and racially hostile work environment, where he was subject to nearly a decade of racial slurs, anonymous notes, insensitive language, targeted graffiti calling him names on school district buildings and an alleged harassment campaign by a group of subordinates.

Employees would slip notes under his door, some saying, Go back to Mexico, Speak English, or calling him a slur.

He alleges hearing comments and anti-Mexico jokes, including, Dont f******* talk to me... I still cant believe we have a Mexican for a director, and, Mexicans  like Mr. Hernandez  will steal the buss hubcaps, and, You people dont like Trump because he wants to build a wall, whyd you even come to our country?

Hernandez claims employees would use his picture as a dartboard target.

The harassment got so bad, the lawsuit says, that Hernandez was reporting one new instance of racially harassing conduct per month to his supervisor. He also alleges that another supervisor used the phrase you people to refer to Mexican-Americans in a derogatory manner.

I encouraged humanism and open and honest conversations, but it was obvious that the district was not concerned about the racism, hostility or the vulgarity of hate words used toward me and others, Hernandez said in a statement. Through this lawsuit, I hope to bring change in our school system and provide a platform for others to come forward and take a stand.

Hernandez claims the district did very little to investigate or discipline employees after he reported the abuse, and went so far as to retaliate against him by reassigning him after he reinstated a worker who allegedly drove a school bus while under the influence, and denying him a promotion.

Pasco Superintendent Michelle Whitney

Hernandez is requesting the court award him lost wages, damages for emotional harm and attorneys fees, among other relief.

The district disputes the claims alleged by Hernandez in the 24-page document filed by the Seattle law firm, Bloom Law PLLC.

Pasco School District does not tolerate discrimination, and the district and Superintendent (Michelle) Whitney adamantly disagree with the characterizations in Mr. Hernandezs complaint, said Anna Tensmeyer, director of public affairs, in a statement Tuesday to the Tri-City Herald.

The districts record illustrates prompt and reasonable responses to all reports of discrimination brought forward by Mr. Hernandez and the districts support of, and dedication to, Mr. Hernandez as an employee, it said.

Hernandez earned an annual salary of more than $162,000 as transportation director during the 2022-23 school year. When the district reassigned him as the migrant program manager, he was offered the same salary for two years. Today, he makes more than $170,000.

While the district could have chosen a harsher response, Mr. Hernandezs record of service and previous expression of interest in similar work were considered in offering him his current assignment, Tensmeyer said.

Career with Pasco schools

Hernandez began working for the Pasco School District in 2006 as a dropout prevention manager and after four years was promoted to student achievement coordinator.

In 2012, he took a job as the districts transportation director, where he oversaw the transportation of 11,000 students daily and managed 230 workers.

The lawsuit says he received uniformly positive reviews during his nine-year tenure as director despite witnessing and being subject to pervasive racial harassment.

Jose Hernandez

Hermandez alleges a small group of bus drivers in the district, who call themselves the Stearman Group, engaged in intimidating and racist conduct towards him because of his race.

The school districts transportation facilities are located on Stearman Avenue.

He says they directed threatening glares at him, refused to acknowledge his greetings, distributed social media pictures of offensive graffiti ostracizing him in 2016 and spread false rumors.

Jose Hernandez, Pasco School Districts former transportation director, is suing his employer for being subject to a racially hostile work environment. His subordinates allegedly distributed these images on social media of offensive graffiti drawn on school district property targeting Hernandez.

In 2019, the group also reportedly delivered an intimidating and anonymous package with a coffee mug inside, which read: Its a Stearman Thing. You Wouldnt Understand.

He also learned secondhand of other racist comments and conduct toward he and other Latino employees on either a weekly or monthly basis.

Mr. Hernandez frequently felt anxious and physically sick after hearing of this racist treatment of him and others, the lawsuit reads.

Despite reporting the harassment to his supervisors, Hernandez claims they repeatedly failed to take prompt or effective remedial action.

Within his first year as transportation director, Hernandez claims he told his supervisor that bus drivers were engaging in appalling racist conduct. Not much was done at first, he says, but investigations were slowly opened.

In 2016, the district formally investigated Hernandezs reports of racist conduct. He claims investigators never spoke with him and that he was left uninformed about the outcome.

The district also formed a climate assessment committee that year, but Hernandez claims it fell apart.

In 2017, after Hernandez and others reported racist comments made by transportation workers, the district issued a non-disciplinary letter to employees to maintain professional behavior at work and be respectful of co-workers beliefs, values and privacy. The letter stated no one will discriminate, harass or intimidate others.

Two years later, in November 2019, the district opened another investigation based on hostile work complaints from Hernandez. But he says investigators failed to look into his concerns. No corrective actions were taken based on the report, but Hernandez claims in the lawsuit that Whitney acknowledged to him that people needed to be fired based on that report.

Because of the districts repeated inaction and failure to take prompt or effective remedial measures, Mr. Hernandez was continually exposed to a racially hostile work environment for years, court documents read.

Hernandez said he would frequently feel physically ill, and the environment was emotionally distressing.

Mr. Hernandez gained a reputation, especially towards the end of his tenure, as someone willing to call out the districts inaction on issues of race intolerance, claims the lawsuit.

The district never disciplined nor fired a single employee based on Hernandezs claims, says the suit.

Tensmeyer says while the district was unable to identify who sprayed the graffiti and sent the coffee mug, they enlisted the support of law enforcement and third-party investigators in an attempt to hold someone accountable.

In other situations, the district took prompt and appropriate measures to address misconduct and prevent any further violations. Additionally, the district implemented measures in Mr. Hernandezs department to improve the climate with demonstrated success, she said.

Intoxicated bus driver

One of the main reasons Hernandez was reassigned, according to the district, was because of allegations that in December 2021 he allowed a district school bus driver to continue driving despite an alcohol test identifying a low level of alcohol in his system.

One of Pasco School Districts two electric school buses is parked at a school sponsored event recently in Pasco. The districts is using about $1.2 million in grant money from the state Department of Ecology to buy them and install infrastructure needed to operate them.

Hernandez claims he placed a bus driver back on duty after verifying the driver took a blood-alcohol test and was below Washingtons state legal intoxication limit. The driver blew an alcohol concentration of 0.014 and 0.016 when tested.

In Washington state, a person is considered legally drunk if they have a blood alcohol measure of 0.08 percent or higher. Hernandez claims the two breath tests were below the limit and would be classified negative by Washingtons Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration standards.

But Pasco school policy states an employee is not allowed on duty or to remain on duty to perform safety-sensitive functions while having any alcohol concentration.

As an administrator, it was Mr. Hernandezs responsibility to know and enforce this policy, the district said in a statement.

In the subsequent third-party investigation, Mr. Hernandez admitted to not knowing of Policy 5259 (zero-tolerance policy) and stated that if he had, he would have not permitted the school bus driver to move until HR got a hold of him.

But Hernandez says placing drivers back on duty when they blow below 0.02 is consistent with the agencys and PSDs zero-tolerance standard for alcohol, and that the district used the incident as an excuse to retaliate against him for reporting racial harassment.

In November 2021, Hernandez said he proposed to an assistant superintendent a meeting with the school board to discuss his concerns about the hostile environment.

A month later, Pasco School District placed him on administrative leave from December 2021 to March 2023, citing allegations of misconduct due to the incident with the bus driver.

The lawsuit says the district ultimately determined that while he acted reasonably in allowing the driver back on duty, he had violated the districts zero-tolerance policy. He was denied a promotion to the executive director of operations and placed in the districts version of Siberia.

The districts justification was nothing more than a cover-up for race discrimination and retaliation, court documents read.
Ford has called its 20,000 employees back to work now that it has reached a tentative agreement with the United Auto Workers (UAW). The two parties have agreed on a new four-year labor contract that include a 25 percent pay increase for employees over that period, according to Reuters and The New York Times. With the cost-of-living wage adjustments the union has also successfully negotiated, the total pay hikes would amount to 33 percent, the UAW said. In addition to a wage hike, the contract also has stipulations for higher pensions and the right to strike over company plans to close factories.

Based on those rates, the highest-paid employees at Ford will ultimately be earning more than $40 an hour, up from $32, and have a base pay of $83,000 for a 40-hour-a-week workload. Meanwhile, recent hires will see their pay double over the next four years. As The Times notes, Ford initially offered to pay its workers 23 percent more, telling the union that it's what the company could afford without making big changes to its business. However, the UAW pushed for a bigger percentage and managed to reach this agreement with Ford by having thousands of its workers walk out over the past few weeks.

Approximately 8,700 personnel at the company's largest truck plant in Kentucky had stopped working, along with another 10,000 in Illinois and Michigan. Around two weeks after the strikes began, Ford suspended the construction of a Michigan battery factory for electric vehicles "until [it's] confident about [its] ability to competitively operate the plant."

Ford, like other automakers, are taking steps to electrify its fleet in hopes of having an all electric vehicle lineup over the next 10 years or so. The automakers affected by the strike, which also include GM and Stellantis, previously said that their electrification efforts currently costing them billions of dollars would be affected by the union's demands. "Toyota, Honda, Tesla and the others are loving the strike, because they know the longer it goes on, the better it is for them," Ford executive chairman William C. Ford Jr. said. Tesla and the Japanese automakers aren't unionized, but the UAW argued that its success with the current strikes could give it the momentum it needs to expand and organize at other companies.
Patriot missile battalions from Fort Liberty and Fort Sill, Oklahoma, are deploying to the Middle East in support of Israel in its war against Hamas, the Pentagon announced this week.

What I can tell you is that the THAAD battery is coming from Fort Bliss, Texas. And the Patriot battalions and batteries are coming from across Fort Liberty in North Carolina and Fort Sill in Oklahoma, Air Force Brig. Gen. Patrick Ryder, the Pentagons press secretary, said during a briefing Tuesday. THAAD stands for Terminal High Altitude Area Defense. Ryder declined to say where the troops are headed but noted that the Fort Liberty deployments are underway.

He said the move of troops comes as the U.S. is preparing for an increase in violence, noting that there have already been at least 13 attacks against troops and installations in Iraq and Syria.

What we are seeing is the prospect for more significant escalation against U.S. forces and personnel across the region in the very near term coming from Iranian proxy forces and ultimately from Iran, said Ryder, the Pentagon's press secretary.

New Fort Liberty sign out in front of the All-American gate on Friday, June 2, 2023.

He added that the U.S. wont hesitate to take action if needed to protect its forces and interests in the region.

We've already deployed a significant number of additional U.S. military capabilities into the region to bolster our regional deterrence efforts, strengthen our capabilities there and enhance our ability to respond to a range of contingencies, Ryder said.

He confirmed that the New Jersey Air National Guard's 119th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron arrived within U.S. Central Commands area of responsibility Tuesday with an additional F-16 fighting Falcon Squadron bolstering U.S. posture to deter further aggression in the region.

The White House said Tuesday that prudent contingency planning is underway to evacuate Americans from the Middle East in case the Israel-Hamas war spreads into a broad regional conflict.

White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby stressed there are currently no active efforts to evacuate Americans from the region beyond charter flights the U.S government began operating earlier this month out of Israel.

It would be imprudent and irresponsible if we didnt have folks thinking through a broad range of contingencies and possibilities, Kirby said. And certainly evacuations are one of those things.

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby speaks Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, during a briefing at the White House in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

The White House addressed the contingency plans amid growing concerns that the 18-day-old Israel-Hamas war could further escalate. The U.S. has advised Israel that postponing a possible ground invasion of Gaza could be helpful as the U.S. and other partners in the region try to secure the release of more than 200 hostages who were captured in the Oct. 7 attack on Israeli soil. The contingency planning was first reported by The Washington Post.

The Israelis are making their own decisions, Biden said Tuesday night when asked whether he has asked Israel to hold off on its expected ground offensive.

President Joe Biden and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke by phone Tuesday about the deteriorating situation. It was the two leaders' first interaction since before the Hamas attack on Israel.

Biden and the crown prince spoke about efforts to deter state and non-state actors from widening the conflict between Israel and Hamas, according to the White House. Biden administration officials have repeatedly warned Iran not to become involved in the conflict. U.S. forces in the region over the last few days have come under repeated attacks that the Pentagon has said were likely endorsed by Iran, which is the chief sponsor of Hamas, the Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, as well as militant groups in Iraq and Yemen.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Fort Liberty troops among those deploying to Middle East
A group of Republican senators led by Sen. Roger Marshall (Kan.) has introduced legislation to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, splitting it off from President Bidens $100 billion request that also includes funding for Ukraine, Taiwan and other issues.

The key for Marshall and others is to split the money for Israel from the money for Ukraine, which is emerging as an increasingly divisive issue within the GOP.

My colleagues and I firmly believe that any aid to Israel should not be used as leverage to send tens of billions of dollars to Ukraine, Marshall told The Wall Street Journal, which first reported on the legislation.

The other Republican sponsors of the legislation are Sens. JD Vance (Ohio), Mike Lee (Utah) and Ted Cruz (Texas).

The legislation would provide $10.6 billion in military assistance to Israel through the Defense Department, according to The Journal.

Senate Republicans battled over strategy for funding Israel and Ukraine at a lunch meeting Wednesday.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) has urged his colleagues to keep military funding for Israel and Ukraine tied together, arguing they are part of a larger global threat facing U.S. national security interests.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount of capital employed. 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 Asia File Corporation Bhd (KLSE:ASIAFLE) 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)?

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 Asia File Corporation Bhd is:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.061 = RM48m  (RM826m - RM36m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023).

Therefore, Asia File Corporation Bhd has an ROCE of 6.1%. Ultimately, that's a low return and it under-performs the Commercial Services industry average of 7.8%.

View our latest analysis for Asia File Corporation Bhd

roce

In the above chart we have measured Asia File Corporation Bhd's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Asia File Corporation Bhd here for free.

What Does the ROCE Trend For Asia File Corporation Bhd Tell Us?

On the surface, the trend of ROCE at Asia File Corporation Bhd doesn't inspire confidence. Over the last five years, returns on capital have decreased to 6.1% from 7.8% five years ago. Meanwhile, the business is utilizing more capital but this hasn't moved the needle much in terms of sales in the past 12 months, so this could reflect longer term investments. It may take some time before the company starts to see any change in earnings from these investments.

Story continues

Our Take On Asia File Corporation Bhd's ROCE

In summary, Asia File Corporation Bhd is reinvesting funds back into the business for growth but unfortunately it looks like sales haven't increased much just yet. And investors appear hesitant that the trends will pick up because the stock has fallen 13% in the last five years. All in all, the inherent trends aren't typical of multi-baggers, so if that's what you're after, we think you might have more luck elsewhere.

One final note, you should learn about the 2 warning signs we've spotted with Asia File Corporation Bhd (including 1 which shouldn't be ignored) .

While Asia File Corporation Bhd 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.
As gun deaths in Wisconsin have reach record levels, the Journal Sentinel examined how the deaths affect every county in the state. Photos: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or text HOPELINE to the National Crisis Text Line at 741741.

When you think about gun deaths in Wisconsin, what comes to mind?

Whatever the narrative, it probably revolves around Milwaukee. You may think of the homicides that plague some neighborhoods.

Marquette University

Or maybe its an accidental shooting, after a young child gets a gun that wasnt locked up.

Or when a police officer shoots someone, or is shot, in the line of duty; or when someone kills another person after being attacked.

All those cases happen with disturbing frequency, and the tragedy is often amplified through news coverage. But they are not the complete picture of gun deaths in Wisconsin. Not even close.

In fact, homicides, accidents and shootings deemed justified put together do not account for even one-third of all gunshot deaths in Wisconsin, according to state data.

Suicide is the missing piece.

For every 100 fatal shootings in Wisconsin, on average 71 deaths are suicides, 25 are homicides, two are police shootings, one is deemed an accident and the balance are undetermined, according to a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel analysis of state health data.

In the past 18 years, the number of gun deaths in the state has been steadily rising.

Last year, more than 800 people died from gunshot wounds, a 95% rate increase when adjusted for population growth since 2004, the analysis found.

The increase was driven by a well-documented surge in homicides, especially in Milwaukee during the pandemic, but also by a less-publicized increase in suicides. Last year for the first time, gun suicides resulted in more than 500 deaths in Wisconsin, preliminary state data show.

The epicenter of these deaths is in Wisconsins rural counties, the analysis shows, and the rates have grown fastest in the states suburban counties.

The picture is similar, from two directions: Every year, guns are the most common means of suicide. And suicide is the biggest share of all gun deaths in Wisconsin.

The increase in deaths comes amid surging gun sales that began during the pandemic. Experts caution against pinpointing one factor, such as the jump in sales, as the single cause of the increase in gun deaths, but access to lethal means is a key ingredient  and the higher sales point to greater accessibility.

Meanwhile, the death data indicates that guns bought for hunting, sport or self-protection are increasingly being used for self-destruction by gun owners, or people close to them.

There are numbers behind the gun deaths, but more importantly, there are people.

Debi Traeder, chairperson of Prevent Suicide Marathon County, described how she grew up with guns and still has them in the home. She strongly favors locking them up, she said in an interview in September.

There is a proverb that says, 'If you save the life of my loved one, you saved my world,' said Debi Traeder, who works in suicide prevention in Wausau and has lived around guns all her life. For every person we help, the world is a better place.

In her work studying suicides, Sara Kohlbeck finds people are often surprised by the breakdown of gun deaths in Wisconsin. Grouping gun deaths together has drawbacks, she said, because circumstances vary widely around a suicide and a homicide, for instance.

But grouping suicides with other firearms fatalities has value, helping people understand that the issue of gun deaths touches every part of the state, said Kohlbeck, director of Suicide Research and Healing in the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Highlighting suicide as a major cause of firearms-related deaths will advance the entire conversation because a lot of us know somebody who has died by suicide, she said. It opens the door.

To underline the point, consider the ranking of gun death rates in Wisconsins counties. When homicides, accidents and police shootings are the measurement, Milwaukee County tops the list.

But when gun suicides are included, the ranking changes and the states rural counties rise to the forefront of firearms deaths.

Because of the complexities behind the different kinds of firearms deaths, coupled with the states hunting tradition, solutions to these deaths also must be multi-faceted, said Jean Papalia, a retired Madison police officer who works in suicide prevention.

Sara Kohlbeck, the director of Suicide Research and Healing in the Comprehensive Injury Center at the Medical College of Wisconsin.

Such efforts may include a focus on better access to mental health services, especially in rural areas; firearms limits during a crisis, through the government and voluntary efforts; education and training for new gun owners; or more likely a combination of all of these and others.

Isn't there a temptation to find one easy fix? Papalia said. Thats why legislators are like, If we just had a  insert the word  a 24-hour waiting period, universal background checks, mandatory this or that, then these deaths would stop. But it is far more complex than a one-size-fits-all. I wish it were that simple.

Through the OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University, the Journal Sentinel sought death data from every county in Wisconsin to examine gun deaths statewide. Over 12 months, the reporting team obtained records for all but one county in Wisconsin.

What emerges is a far different map and a different picture of gun deaths, one that doesnt tilt so heavily toward Milwaukee, but is more evenly balanced.

What Wisconsin's data on gun deaths shows

Data from the state Department of Health Services and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a picture of trends in Wisconsin over the past 18 years.

Nine of the 10 counties in Wisconsin with the highest gun death rates were rural. Just one  Milwaukee  was urban, ranking sixth. The firearms death rate in Wisconsins rural counties was 12% higher than urban counties.

The rate is rising fastest in suburban counties  places such as Waukesha, Ozaukee, Kenosha and Washington, as well as St. Croix and Pierce counties near Minneapolis. The firearm death rate in those counties more than doubled.

African American males are the most likely group to die by gun homicide. White males are the most likely to die by gun suicide.

Firearms account for the largest single share of both suicides and homicides  50% of suicides and 70% of homicides.

Accidental shootings and shootings by police were mostly flat and both declined in 2022. Because they are comparatively rare, they dont affect overall figures much.

Data challenges assumptions about gun deaths

Manitowoc County provided the most detailed data to the Journal Sentinel.

Curt Green, Manitowocs coroner, said he collects more detailed data so he can better educate the public.

Between 1990 and August of this year, there were 200 total gun deaths in Manitowoc County. Of those deaths, 176, or 88%, were suicides; 20 were homicides and four were ruled accidental. Green plans to soon hold a public session based on the gun death data.

Pamphlets and information at a booth for Walk the Talk America, a group founded by Michael Sodini, a former gun importer. The group's mission is to bridge the gap between mental health providers and gun owners. (Credit: Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Many people watch the news and they see these mass shootings and these homicides and they have this misconception that most gun deaths are homicides, Green said. Most people dont have any idea. Its suicides.

Green collects information about a victims mental health history and treatment, as well as alcohol and drug use. Of the gun suicides in the county since 1990, 75% of victims had reported feeling depressed and about half had problems with alcohol. In seven cases, the family reported the gun used had been recently purchased.

Several counties reported a higher percentage of suicides than Manitowoc, at 90% or even 100% of gun deaths.

That was the case in Langlade County, with 19,500 residents northwest of Green Bay. In the six years of records provided to the Journal Sentinel, there were 10 deaths from firearms. All were suicides.

Like 90-plus percent of homes in Langlade County have guns and its not for safety, Coroner Larry Shadick said. Hunting is big up here. And suicide is big for us.

In Milwaukee County, the homicide vs. suicide picture is the opposite of state averages.

There were nearly 3,000 gun deaths over 20 years of data provided by the Milwaukee County Medical Examiners Office. Homicides accounted for 70% of the total, while suicides accounted for 28%. Milwaukee had a low suicide rate compared to other counties; just six counties had a lower rate, state data shows.

Overall, Wisconsin's percentage of gun deaths that are suicides is 12 percentage points higher than the national average, according to CDC data.

Experts note this data counts only gun fatalities, not gun injuries.

There is a sharp difference in the fatality rates between homicides and suicides when a gun is used. In the majority of incidents in which a person shoots another person, there is not a death. In Milwaukee, for every one gun homicide, there are another four or five non-fatal shootings, according to the Homicide Review Commission.

With gun suicides, however, the numbers are more than reversed. An estimated 90% of gun suicide attempts result in death.

Gun owners not more prone to suicidal thoughts

The increase in gun deaths in Wisconsin is likely fueled by a cauldron of factors including the economy, isolation and despair, the states robust drinking culture, a lack of mental health services and increased availability of guns, according to Kohlbeck and others.

In a well-documented phenomenon, Americans bought 60 million guns between 2020 and 2022, with an estimated 5 million of those sold to first-time buyers, research shows. Gun sales essentially doubled in those months.

Surveys indicate there are now an estimated 400 million guns in the U.S. owned by roughly one-third of the population. There is at least one gun in an estimated 45% of homes, a figure that fluctuates somewhat over time and was slightly higher in the 1980s.

Experts stress that gun owners arent more prone to suicidal or homicidal thoughts. However, because of their access to a gun, a death is more likely should they encounter a crisis or should conflict arise.

The lethality of firearms, especially in an impulsive situation, can make a life-or-death difference.

If we are able to put time and distance between a person and the means to end their life, there is a good chance we'll be able to prevent that suicide and a good chance that person is not going to go on to die by suicide, Kohlbeck said.

Several rifles are displayed on a wall for sale at Chuck Lovelaces gun shop, Essential Shooting Supplies, in Park Falls. Lovelace spearheaded efforts to launch a suicide awareness and a gun storage program. (Credit: Mike De Sisti / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Guns are part of everybodys lives up here

Traeder, the suicide prevention advocate in Wausau, has been around guns her whole life and is well-aware of how often guns owners are turning firearms on themselves.

She attributes the epidemic of gun suicides in the northern part of Wisconsin to the commonness of guns, a go-it-alone attitude, and a lack of mental health resources.

Seventy-five percent of Wisconsin counties have a significant shortage of psychiatrists and 20 had no practicing psychiatrists at all, according to a 2018 report by the Wisconsin Policy Forum. More recent studies suggest the need has increased and the shortage only grown worse.

Guns are part of everybody's lives up here, Traeder said. There's still some old adages out there  I can take care of myself and pull myself up by my own bootstraps.

When Traeder was growing up, it was common on farms for there to be a shotgun by the door of the milkhouse for killing wild animals. No one thought anything of it, she said.

Traeder and her husband have guns in their Wausau home and they are locked up. She supports gun rights but also says people should be sure to secure guns and be alert to their own mental well-being and of others in the household.

Traeder and her husband have held guns for friends in crisis. Researchers estimate one-third of gun owners have done this.

Several years ago, Traeder and her husband were called to the home of a friend whose former spouse had just ended their life with a gun.

They sat with the friend, who was already living with depression. Before they left early the next morning, all agreed it was best the Traeders take the friend's guns.

They kept the guns in their safe for months. Just before the hunting season, the decision was made to return the guns.

It was just kind of like a natural progression. November came along. It was time for deer season, she said. Everybody was on a pretty even keel.

In a better spot today, the friend is grateful. The guns are locked up but someone else holds the keys.

We're a lot more alike

Papalia, the retired Madison cop, said when she talks about gun deaths in Wisconsin she reminds people the most likely victim is a white middle-aged or older man living in a rural county.

Jean Papalia, a retired Madison police officer, who works in sucide prevention in Madison.

Some people simply dont believe it.

That's who we are losing in droves, she said. These men up north are dying alone and nobody even wants to talk about it. The family has to grieve silently.

Papalia wants to be clear that she isnt putting more importance on one death over another. They are all important.

She hopes the Journal Sentinels analysis will generate more dialogue.

I think there's a thirst or hunger for having this conversation. And if we're all having the conversation, I think we're going to find out we're a lot more alike than we are different.

Andrew Hahn, Daphne Chen, Kevin Crowe, Eva Wen, Ben Schultz and Alex Rivera Grant contributed to this article.

Project credits

Contributing reporters: Natalie Eilbert, Alex Rivera Grant, Ben Schultz

Data analysis, graphics: Andrew Hahn, Daphne Chen, Kevin Crowe, Eva Wen

Photos, video: Mike De Sisti, Bill Schulz

Story editing: Greg Borowski

Photo editing: Sherman Williams, Berford Gammon

Copy editing: Ray Hollnagel, Pete Sullivan

Design: Kyle Slagle

Social media: Ridah Syed

About this project

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter John Diedrich examined the full extent of gun deaths in Wisconsin during a nine-month OBrien Fellowship in Public Service Journalism at Marquette University.

The project reveals the full picture of gun deaths in the state and tells the stories of people affected by gun deaths and those trying to find solutions.

Diedrich was assisted in the project by Marquette student researchers Alex Rivera Grant and Ben Schultz.

Marquette University and administrators of the program played no role in the reporting, editing or presentation of this project.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Rural areas, suicides play big role in Wisconsin's rising gun deaths
Threats to burn down businesses. Harassing phone calls. Cursing at students at a school.

Since war in the Middle East broke out after Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, Muslims and Arab Americans in North Jersey are becoming more worried for their safety.

And that was even before the killing of a 6-year-old Muslim boy in the Chicago area, stabbed along with his mother, allegedly by a man angry over the conflict in Israel and Gaza.

Local leaders warned that hateful sentiments have been allowed to fester as Palestinians have been cast in dehumanizing ways, vilified as terrorist supporters and ignored as civilians and victims. Since the start of the Israel-Hamas war, they say, their communities have faced a spike in harassment, bullying, assaults and threats.

American Muslim and Palestinian families here in America are hurting, said Selaedin Maksut, executive director of the Council on American Islamic Relations of New Jersey. Many have lost loved ones. Many have faced hate at home. Anxiety and fear is high.

Basma Bsharat, Palestine Education Director, at the Palestinian American Community Center (PACC), speaks during a press conference, Monday, October 16, 2023.

The CAIR-NJ office has not received this many calls for help since the Muslim ban in 2017, Maksut added, referring to a Trump-era ban that upended travel and visas for thousands of Muslim travelers.

Palestinian Americans are grappling with devastating loss, with over 6,500 reported killed in Gaza as of Wednesday, including at least 2,700 children, and at least 100 killed in the West Bank since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in Israel. They say they also struggle at home amid a seeming lack of concern and outrage for their suffering and for the backlash many say they are facing.

This could have been us

In Clifton, the Palestinian American Community Center hired a security guard after receiving dozens of harassing phone calls, including one from a man in Texas who boasted of the guns he kept at home.

Police have increased patrols at the center, and staff members are keeping front doors locked and declining to answer anonymous calls, said Basma Bsharat, the centers Palestine education director.

Honestly, it has been very scary, especially with the story of Wadea, said Bsharat, referring to the child killed in Illinois. My son is 5 years old. This could have been us.

She blamed a racist and one-sided narrative that media and politicians have used to spread hate and fear for fueling a backlash against Muslims.

Politics: In this Palestinian community, frustration grows as politicians ignore calls for cease-fire

In Paterson, Raed Odeh, owner of the Palestine Hair Salon and a deputy mayor in the city, said he contacted police after a man called threatening to burn down his business and family.

In Fair Lawn, parents and children leaving the Noble Leadership Academy, an Islamic K-12 school, were rattled when a man drove by shouting curses and saying he would kill them, said school Principal Amanny Khattab.

In New Jersey, CAIR said it had received 100 requests for help since Oct. 7  triple what it typically receives.

Incidents are also mounting across the country. In Michigan, a man wrote online that he wanted to gather people to hunt Palestinians, and in Brooklyn, Arab Americans were targeted in two separate anti-Palestinian assaults, police said.

Read Odeh, owner of the Palestine Hair Salon, in Paterson, talks about threats he received. Odeh said he received multiple threats saying his business will be burned down as well as similar threats against his family. Odeh shared his story during a press conference at the Palestinian American Community Center (PACC), in Clifton Monday, October 16, 2023.

Last Thursday, CAIR's national office changed the location of its 29th annual banquet due to thousands of angry calls and threats directed at the organization and the hotel. Anonymous callers threatened to plant bombs in the hotel's parking garage, kill hotel workers in their homes, and storm the hotel in the style of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol if the event moved forward, CAIR said.

The U.S. Campaign for Palestinian Rights also canceled an upcoming event at a hotel in Houston for safety reasons. In both cases, the hotels were the subject of organized campaigns demanding they withdraw from hosting the events, The Associated Press reported. On Friday, the Zionist Organization of America thanked its activists for efforts that forced the cancellation of the events.

Protesters attacked

Although tensions long existed over the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, people say the anger or hostility has grown far worse, reminiscent of the fierce Islamophobia that surged after 9/11. Activists have faced death threats, intimidation and doxing, in which personal information is shared online to encourage harassment. Palestine Legal, an advocacy group, said it responded to nearly 200 such incidents in 11 days.

At a vigil in Jersey City recognizing lives lost in Israel and Gaza, Abeera Saeed said she was approached by a stranger, screaming that she supported the murder of Jewish babies and rape. Saeed believes she was singled out in the crowd because she wears a hijab, an Islamic headscarf.

Its such a hopeless and frustrating feeling, Saeed said. People were around, so I wasnt afraid. It is just a disappointing moment in time.

Protesters have also faced physical attacks. In Lincolnwood, lll., a man fired his gun in the air near where pro-Palestinian protesters gathered on Sunday, and another man fired pepper spray at them. Another protester was struck in a hit and run.

On the same day in Minneapolis, a man reportedly threatened protesters with a box cutter and then drove his car into the crowd. No injuries were reported.

'Free Palestine': Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters march through Paterson to demand cease fire

Across the nation, families are collectively mourning Wadea's killing in Plainfield, Illinois. The child was stabbed 26 times and his mother was seriously wounded on Oct. 15 by their landlord, who shouted, You Muslims must die," police reported.

The suspects wife said he listens to conservative talk radio on a regular basis and had become angry listening to segments about the war between Israel and Hamas, according to news reports.

Ahmed Rehab, executive director of CAIR-Chicago, called on officials and media figures to reconsider fanning an atmosphere of hate and dehumanization, not seen since the aftermath of 9/11, which puts communities at certain risk.

Words matter'

Duaa Abufares, speaks about her concern for her father, who is in the Gaza Strip. Abufares shared her concern for his life during a press conference at the Palestinian American Community Center (PACC), in Clifton, Monday, October 16, 2023.

Arab and Muslim leaders say one-sided narratives implying that people who support Palestinians also support Hamas or ignoring decades of oppression against Palestinians are fueling the backlash.

Words matter, and your words as elected officials have shaped a twisted narrative that has dehumanized and even demonized the Muslim and Palestinian community, said Maksut, of CAIR-NJ.

In a social media post, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul condemned a Palestinian rally in Times Square, calling it abhorrent and morally repugnant. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has said Gazans are all antisemitic and that the U.S. should not accept them as refugees.

Media outlets have also put out what some described as biased accounts that fail to explain why people are rallying. They are calling to stop bombardment of Gaza, but also for freedom for Palestinians who have faced years of dispossession, mass arrests and brutal repression of their protests.

Community leaders called for elected officials to stand against hate and to condemn the mass killings of civilians in Gaza, as they have done for Israelis.

"Our community has become a target across the country, a target of hate, injustice and exclusion," said Bsharat, of the Clifton center. "Our people do not feel safe, heard or seen. We are calling for everyone to acknowledge the humanity of all Palestinians and end this violence."

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ Palestinians worried after threats mount against them
A day after Hurricane Otis roared ashore in Acapulco, Mexico, unleashing massive floods and setting off looting, the resort city of nearly 1 million descended into chaos, leaving residents without electricity or internet service as the toll remained uncertain.

The early images and accounts were of extensive devastation, toppled trees and power lines lying in brown floodwaters that in some areas extended for miles. The resulting destruction delayed a comprehensive response by the government, which was still assessing the damage along Mexico's Pacific coast, and made residents desperate.

Many of the once sleek beachfront hotels in Acapulco looked like toothless, shattered hulks a day after the Category 5 storm blew out hundreds - and possibly thousands - of windows.

There seemed to be a widespread frustration with authorities. While some 10,000 military troops were deployed to the area, they lacked the tools to clean tons of mud and fallen trees from the streets. Hundreds of trucks from the government electricity company arrived in Acapulco early Wednesday, but seemed at a loss as to how to restore power, with downed electricity lines lying in feet of mud and water.

A damaged building stands after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. - Marco Ugarte/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved.

Jakob Sauczuk was staying with a group of friends at a beachfront hotel when Otis hit. "We laid down on the floor, and some between beds," Sauczuk said. "We prayed a lot."

One of his friends showed reporters photos of the windowless, shattered rooms in the hotel. It looked as if someone had put clothes, beds and furniture in a blender, leaving a shredded mass.

Sauczuk complained that his group was given no warning, nor were offered safer shelter, by the hotel.

Pablo Navarro, an auto parts worker who was lodged in temporary accommodations at a beach front hotel, thought he might die in his 13th story hotel room.

"I took shelter in the bathroom, and thankfully the door held," said Navarro. "But there were some rooms where the wind blew out the windows and the doors."

Navarro stood Wednesday outside a discount grocery and household goods store near the hotel zone, as hundreds of people wrestled everything from packs of hot dogs and toilet paper to flat screen TVs out of the muddy store, struggling to push loaded metal shopping carts onto the mud-choked streets outside.

"This is out of control," he said.

People walk with goods looted from a shopping mall after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. - Marco Ugarte/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved.

It took nearly all day Wednesday for authorities to partially reopen the main highway connecting Acapulco to the state capital Chilpancingo and Mexico City. The vital ground link allowed dozens of emergency vehicles, personnel and trucks carrying supplies to reach the battered port.

Acapulco's commercial and military airports were still too badly damaged to resume flights.

Acapulco's Diamond Zone, an oceanfront area replete with hotels, restaurants and other tourist attractions, looked to be mostly underwater in drone footage that Foro TV posted online Wednesday afternoon, with boulevards and bridges completely hidden by an enormous lake of brown water.

Large buildings had their walls and roofs partially or completely ripped off. Dislodged solar panels, cars and debris littered the lobby of one severely damaged hotel. People wandered up to their waists in water in some areas, while on other less-flooded streets soldiers shovelled rubble and fallen palm fronds from the pavement.

Wednesday night the city plunged into darkness. There was no phone service, but some people were able to use satellite phones loaned by the Red Cross to let family members know they were OK.

People wait for repair crews to unclog the roads after Hurricane Otis ripped through Acapulco, Mexico, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 - Marco Ugarte/Copyright 2023 The AP. All rights reserved.

On Tuesday, Otis took many by surprise when it rapidly strengthened from a tropical storm to a powerful Category 5 as it tore along the coast.

"It's one thing to have a Category 5 hurricane make landfall somewhere when you're expecting it or expecting a strong hurricane, but to have it happen when you're not expecting anything to happen is truly a nightmare," said Brian McNoldy, a hurricane researcher at the University of Miami.

Acapulco, Tecpan and other towns along the Costa Grande in Guerrero were hit hard, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Wednesday morning. He said conditions were so bad that communication with the area had been "completely lost."
Israel delays ground offensive so that US can bring more air defenses into the region

Israel has agreed to temporarily delay its ground invasion of Gaza after a request from the U.S. to get its air defenses in place to protect American troops in the region, The Wall Street Journal is reporting . The publication cited U.S. and Israeli officials.

The Pentagon, as we noted earlier this week , is scrambling to deploy one Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery and several Patriot batteries to the region. That move comes in the wake of increasing attacks on U.S. forces in Syria and Iraq as well as a nine-hour-long engagement the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney had last week. The vessel knocked down four Houthi land attack cruise missiles and more than a dozen drones. The U.S. is shipping multiple air defense systems to protect U.S. troops serving in Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the Journal reported.

U.S. officials have so far persuaded the Israelis to hold off until those pieces can be placed, as early as later this week, according to the publication.

https://twitter.com/WSJ/status/1717194979557167308

Israel is also taking into account in its planning the effort to supply humanitarian aid to civilians inside Gaza, as well as diplomatic efforts to free more of the hostages held by Hamas , officials said.

But the biggest concern is protecting American forces.

There have been at least 13 attacks on U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, using drones and missiles, which have resulted in the death of one American contractor and the destruction of an American drone, U.S. officials said. At least two dozen troops were injured in Syria and another 10 in Iraq, defense officials told the Journal, nearly all of them minor.

https://twitter.com/malbertnews/status/1717137411107348668

Any ground invasion of Gaza is going to face tremendous challenges, which you can read more about in our report here .

https://twitter.com/haltman/status/1712901364395704541

Concerned about arms shipments from Iran to its regional proxies , Israel carried out its fourth attack this month on Aleppo International Airport on Wednesday, according to several media reports. The attack came as tensions along Israel's northern borders with Syria and Lebanon have increased since the start of the latest Israel-Hamas war on Oct. 7.

The Israeli enemy carried out an air attack from the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, west of Latakia, targeting Aleppo International Airport, a Syrian military source told state TV, according to Al-Arabiya .

https://twitter.com/AlArabiya_Eng/status/1717130791124165010

The strike caused no injuries, the SANA state news agency said, according to The Times of Israel. The damage was limited to the airports runway, forcing it to be closed for repairs for several days.

Israel, as we have noted in the past , has also carried out attacks on the Damascus airport as well.

There was no immediate comment on the strike from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which does not generally report on individual strikes in Syria, The Times of Israel reported.

However, the IDF did announce early Wednesday that it had struck several Syrian military targets after rockets were fired from Syria toward Israeli communities in the Golan Heights several hours earlier. SANA, citing a Syrian military source, said eight soldiers were killed and another seven were wounded in the overnight Israeli airstrike in the Daraa area.

The IDF said it sees Syria, along with Lebanon, as part of a northern front. Israeli Lt. Col. Peter Lerner stated that Israel responded to attacks against it from Syria.

"There is a concern that the northern front in itself, from Syria all the way across to Lebanon, will increase its hostilities toward Israel," he told Sky News .

https://twitter.com/SkyNews/status/1717101743299817718

The latest strike on Aleppo International Airport was "the fourth time [its runway] has been hit in recent weeks, following strikes on October 12, 14, and 22, The Times of Israel reported. It was due to open on Wednesday after repairs following the last strike. Israel is believed to be stepping up efforts to prevent the shipment of advanced weapons from Iran to its various Middle East proxies, chief among them Hezbollah.

Previous strikes sparked large protests in Syria.

People take part in a protest to condemn Israeli missile strikes on two Syrian airports, and voice their support for the Palestinians, in Damascus, Syria, Oct. 12, 2023. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua via Getty Images)

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) says that including this latest strike on Aleppo International Airport, Israel has conducted 42 attacks in Syria so far this year.

SOHR says it documented "31 airstrikes and 11 rocket attacks by ground forces, during which Israel targeted several positions in Syria, destroying nearly 91 targets, including buildings, weapons and ammunitions warehouses, headquarters, centers and vehicles. These strikes killed 83 combatants and injured 103 others."

https://twitter.com/syriahr/status/1717132488051446000

Hezbollah's leader held talks on Wednesday in Beirut with senior Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad figures in a key meeting of three top anti-Israel militant groups amid the war raging in Gaza, The Associated Press reported Wednesday .

In a brief statement after the meeting, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah agreed with Hamas Saleh al-Arouri and Islamic Jihads leader Ziad al-Nakhleh on the next steps that the three  along with other Iran-backed militants  should take at this sensitive stage in the Middle East.

Their goal, according to the statement carried on Hezbollah-run and Lebanese state media, was to achieve a real victory for the resistance in Gaza and Palestine and halt Israels treacherous and brutal aggression against our oppressed and steadfast people in Gaza and the West Bank.

No other details about what they discussed were provided, the AP reported.

https://twitter.com/amandarivkin/status/1717197506738606207

As those leaders met, the situation in the north remains tense.

"Following the initial report regarding sirens that sounded in northern Israel, four launches were identified toward Israeli territory," the IDF reported. "No interceptors were launched in accordance with protocol."

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1717173045461193116

Israel says its military carried out wide-scale attacks in Gaza based on information provided by its ISA intelligence service.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) struck several terrorists and Hamas infrastructure, including terror tunnel shafts, military headquarters, weapons warehouses, mortar launchers and anti-tank missile launchers, the IDF said on Telegram.

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1717054734673092723

The targets included Hamas operations that the IDF claimed were preventing Gazans from fleeing south to avoid the massive Israeli bombardment and oppressing internal Gaza rivals.

The IDF said it struck the Hamas emergency operational apparatus, including war rooms, infrastructure and military headquarters.

Hamas emergency operational apparatus was responsible for setting up blockades that prevented Gazans from evacuating to safer areas in the southern Gaza Strip, the IDF said. Hamas has told people not to head south, but has denied interfering in any such efforts.

Additionally, the IDF said it also struck military infrastructure and command centers of Hamas' security apparatus, which is responsible for overseeing the terrorist organization in the Gaza Strip and arresting and imprisoning Hamas' opponents.

The IDF also claimed it killed the commander of the Hamas North Khan Yunis sector.

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1717075843749487060?s=12

Hamas decried the attacks, saying they are causing a serious humanitarian crisis and placing the healthcare system on the verge of collapse.

There are shortages of medical personnel, medicine, medical equipment and emergency vehicles, Hamas said on Telegram. The problems are exacerbated by the cut-off by Israel of electricity and fuel to the Gaza Strip.

Hamas called on the world to stand up to its responsibilities to end the brutal occupation and stop the barbaric aggression against our people and to support the health sector urgently with medical staff, medicines, medical equipment, first aid, and field hospitals, and put pressure on everyone to bring everything necessary into the health system.

People mourn as they collect the bodies of Palestinians killed in Israeli air raids on October 25, 2023 in Khan Yunis, Gaza. (Photo by Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images)

Israel also said it carried out raids in the West Bank, arresting scores of suspected terrorists.

"Many forces of the IDF, the Shin Bet and the Mageb operated tonight in many centers throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Brigade to counter terrorism and arrested 68 wanted persons suspected of involvement in terrorist activities. Fifty-eight of them are active in the terrorist organization Hamas."

https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1717129565582045527?s=12

The IDF released video it said shows the elimination of Hamas frogmen trying to carry out an attack near a military base close to Zikim in the south Israel. You can read more about that incident in our initial reporting here .

https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1717111183470215309

The Wall Street Journal took a deep dive into the smuggling of arms through Jordan into the West Bank that threatens both the Hashemite Kingdom as well as the region.

Using drones, secret airline flights and a land bridge that traverses hundreds of miles and at least four national borders, the smuggling operation is raising the specter of a new conflagration in the war between Israel and Palestinians , the publication reported. It also poses a growing threat to Jordan, a staunch U.S. ally which borders Israel and the West Bank and has been struggling to contain a growing flow of drugs and arms.

Iran wants to turn Jordan into a transit area for weapons going into Israel, Amer Al-Sabaileh, founder of Security Languages, a counterterrorism think tank in Amman, told the Journal. But my fear is that the weapons might be used in Jordan as well. Where is the easiest place in the Middle East to punish the U.S. and the West? Jordan.

The bulk of Iranian weapons to Palestinians go into the West Bank, particularly to the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a militant group allied with Hamas, a senior Jordanian security official told the Journal. The official said networks of smugglers, assisted by the Syrian government and Iranian-backed militias like Hezbollah , were growing.

https://twitter.com/andycooper52/status/1717051220291129601

Speaking to CNN , Jordan's Queen Rania accused Western leaders of a glaring double standard for failing to condemn the deaths of civilians under Israeli bombardment in Gaza, as Israels war on Hamas threatens to destabilize relations between US and Arab leaders.

In an exclusive interview with CNNs Christiane Amanpour, Rania said, The people all around the Middle East, including in Jordan, we are just shocked and disappointed by the worlds reaction to this catastrophe that is unfolding. In the last couple of weeks, we have seen a glaring double standard in the world.

When October 7 happened, the world immediately and unequivocally stood by Israel and its right to defend itself and condemned the attack that happened  but what were seeing in the last couple of weeks, were seeing silence in the world, she told CNN.

https://twitter.com/yashar/status/1716983169214501191?s=12

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday issued his strongest words of support yet for Hamas.

"Hamas is not a terrorist organization, it is a liberation group, 'mujahideen' waging a battle to protect its lands and people," he told lawmakers from his ruling AK Party, Reuters reported .

Erdogan also called for an immediate ceasefire between Israeli and Palestinian forces and said Muslim countries must act together to secure a lasting peace in the region.

In addition, Erdogan decried Western powers that have voiced support for Israel's retaliation against Hamas, saying "Western tears shed for Israel are a manifestation of fraud."

Many of Turkey's NATO allies consider Hamas a terrorist group, and Erdogan's comments drew a swift rebuke from Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, who said they were "grave and disgusting and did not help with de-escalation."

https://twitter.com/ragipsoylu/status/1717114802592497965

Yesterday, we told you about a press conference held by Yocheved Lifschitz , 85, was one of two women, along with Nurit Yitzhak, released Monday by Hamas .

Today, Qatars foreign minister said that hostage negotiations with Hamas over the more than 200 people it took hostage during its Oct. 7 attack on Israel continue, The Times of Israel is reporting .

Regarding the progress on the hostage negotiation, its still ongoing, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, who also serves as Qatars prime minister, said during a news conference with his Turkish counterpart in Doha on Wednesday. If we compare where we started and where we are right now, there is some progress and some breakthrough and we will remain hopeful.

The negotiations, he added, are still ongoing and at any moment of time, I think that if we will be able to get along between the two parties, I think we will see some breakthroughs hopefully soon.

Tzahi Hanegbi, the head of Israels National Security Council, tweeted today that he is pleased to say that Qatar is becoming an essential party and stakeholder in the facilitation of humanitarian solutions.

https://twitter.com/Tzachi_Hanegbi/status/1717102472844488916

This is a developing story. We will provide updates when there is new information to report about the Israel-Hamas war.

Update: 2:08 PM EST -

During a press briefing before a cabinet meeting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to concede there will be a delay, but insisted that the invasion will happen.

We are preparing for a ground incursion. I wont specify when, how, how many. I also wont detail the range of considerations, most of which the public is not aware of, he said, according to The Times of Israel . And thats the way it is supposed to be. This is the way, so that we protect our soldiers lives.

The timing of the operation is unanimously determined by the cabinet that runs the war along with the chief of the General Staff,  Netanyahu said. When we enter Gaza later on in our fighting, we're going to take the toll - the full price from those terrorists who carried out those atrocities of Hamas-ISIS.

https://twitter.com/skynews/status/1717233610481172862?s=12

Update: 5:20 PM EST -

A U.S. military base in northeast Syria came under rocket attack Wednesday, a U.S. official told The War Zone. There were no injuries or damage.

The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss operational details, said one rocket landed inside the base, near the Abu Hajar Airport, and two rockets landed outside it.

The official did not say who was behind the attack, but a loose collective of Iranian-backed militias in the region took credit.

The Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq targeted the American occupation base at Abu Hajar Airport - Kharab al-Jir in northeastern Syria, with a missile salvo, and directly hit its targets, the group, calling itself the Islamic Resistance in Iraq said on its Telegram channel.

Update: 6:44 EST -

Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's top spokesman, issued an update on the numbers of troops injured during drone attacks on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria.

Between Oct. 17-18 (ET), 21 U.S. personnel received minor injuries due to drone attacks at Al Assad Airbase, Iraq and Al-Tanf Garrison, Syria. All members returned to duty. It is important to note, in some cases service members may report injuries such as TBI several days after attacks occur, so numbers may change. We will continue to work closely with U.S. Central Command to provide updates as appropriate.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
The US says its fighter jets have struck two Iranian facilities in Syria, after repeated attacks on US coalition forces in the region by an Iran-backed militia in the past week.

A US official said the strikes were not carried out in coordination with Israel, which has been engaged in its own clashes with Iran-backed Hezbollah forces on the border with Lebanon.

Earlier Gazas ministry of health published a list of names of 7,000 people it says have been killed by Israel in the last three weeks.

The Hamas list - which has not been verified - is more than 200 pages long and includes the age and gender of the victims.

On Wednesday, US president Joe Biden said he had no confidence in the number that the Palestinians are using for the death toll.

Israel says that more than 1,400 people were killed in the Hamas attacks on 7 October that sparked the latest wave of violence in the war-torn region.

Key Points

Israel conducts overnight raid in Gaza with tanks

More than 750 Gazans killed in one day, says health ministry

Hezbollah, Hamas and Islamic Jihad leaders discuss how to achieve 'victory'

Israel calls for UN chiefs resignation

Aid workers could be forced to stop work due to fuel blockade, UN warns

EU position on Israel-Hamas is evolving, says Irish premier

11:47 , Adam Forrest

Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said he believes the EU position on Israel-Palestine is evolving and that it would have a role to play in any future peace conference.

Mr Varadkar has said it is possible that EU states could update their statement to call for an Israel-Hamas ceasefire in the future.

On Thursday, EU leaders reiterated a condemnation of Hamas for brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel.

The European Council also strongly emphasised Israels right to defend itself in line with international law, while reiterating the importance of protecting civilians.

Irish premier Leo Varadkar said he thought the EU position on Israel-Palestine was evolving (PA Wire)

Israel-Hamas conflict wont affect UKs support for Ukraine, Sunak says

11:35 , Katie Devlin

Rishi Sunak has spoken to Volodymyr Zelensky, to reassure him the UKs support for Ukraine will not change despite the Israel-Hamas war.

A Downing Street spokeswoman said the Prime Minister spoke to the Ukrainian President this morning to reiterate the UKs support for Ukraine.

The Prime Minister underscored the UKs long term and unwavering commitment to Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity and reiterated that the conflict in the Middle East would not change that.

Mr Sunak added that the principle of a rules based order, in which people could live in peace and stability, needed to be protected both in Ukraine and the Middle East.

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky in July

US sanctions Hamas and Irans Revolutionary Guard

11:20 , Alexander Butler

The US has issued a second round of sanctions on Hamas by targeting a senior official, as well as members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Todays action underscores the United States commitment to dismantling Hamass funding networks by deploying our counterterrorism sanctions authorities and working with our global partners to deny Hamas the ability to exploit the international financial system, Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo said

A Gaza-based entity that Treasury said has served as a conduit for illicit Iranian funds to Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group was also targeted, the department said. Iran backs Hamas and other militant groups in the Middle East.

The US has sanctioned Hamas and IRGC officials (AP)

Watch: Sadiq Khan calls for Gaza ceasefire as Labour rebellion against Starmer stance grows

11:05 , Alexander Butler

IDF kills top Hamas commander, Israel says

10:49 , Alexander Butler

Israel has killed a senior Hamas commander, according to the Israeli Defence Forces.

The IDF and the Shin Bet tonight killed Midhat Mabasher, the commander of the West Khan Yunis Battalion in the terrorist organization Hamas, the IDF said.

The Israeli military said Mabasher took part in sniping attacks and used large explosives against IDF forces and Israeli settlements.

 "     ,        .              >> pic.twitter.com/awTghlrrGy     (@idfonline) October 27, 2023

WHO: 1,000 people still under rubble in Gaza

10:40 , Alexander Butler

Up to 1,000 people are still stuck under the rubble of destroyed buildings in Gaza, according to a World Health Organisation official.

We also get these estimates that there are still 1,000 plus people under the rubble which have not been identified yet, Richard Peeperkorn, WHO Representative for the occupied Palestinian territory, said in response to a question about the death toll in Gaza.

More than 7,000 people have been killed by Israeli bombardments in response to deadly cross-border attacks on Israel by Hamas gunmen on 7 October, Gazan health authorities say.

Rubble and ruins in Gaza following Israeli airstrikes on the region (AFP via Getty Images)

At least 57 UN staff members killed in Gaza

10:30 , Alexander Butler

Up to 57 staff members from the United Nations have been killed in the Israel-Hamas conflict, Philippe Lazzarini, commissioner general for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, said.

At least 57 colleagues of mine are confirmed killed, said Mr Lazzarini. Wonderful people who have just dedicated their lives to their communities.

Mr Lazzarini also said Gazas death figures, which were challenged by the US, had been accurate in previous conflicts between Israel and Hamas.

In the past, the five, six cycles of conflict in the Gaza Strip, these figures were considered as credible and no one ever really challenged these figures, he said.

Smoke rises over the Gaza strip (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Pictured: Gaza

10:20 , Alexander Butler

Three men mourn at a funeral of Palestinians killed in Israeli air strikes (REUTERS)

Palestinians walk amid the rubble and destruction after an Israeli airstrike on Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

An aerial view of a destroyed building following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

A building lies in ruins after Israeli airstrikes on southern Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

London mayor Sadiq Khan calls for ceasefire

10:10 , Alexander Butler

Londons Mayor Sadiq Khan has called for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

Thousands of innocent civilians have already been killed in Israel and Gaza, he said.

With the humanitarian crisis set to deteriorate even further, Im calling for a ceasefire.

Thousands of innocent civilians have already been killed in Israel and Gaza. With the humanitarian crisis set to deteriorate even further, Im calling for a ceasefire. pic.twitter.com/iOZpHTsBQC  Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan (@MayorofLondon) October 27, 2023

Israeli forces kill four Palestinians in West Bank clashes

10:00 , Alexander Butler

Israeli forces have killed four Palestinians during raids in the occupied West Bank, the official Palestinian news agency WAFA said. Two of the dead were identified by militant factions as their members.

As it wages a now three-week-old war on Hamas in the Gaza Strip, Israel has also stepped up operations against Islamist groups in the West Bank, killing scores of Palestinians and arresting hundreds. One Israeli soldier was killed in a clash.

The Israeli military said that during West Bank arrest operations its troops came under attack in the city of Jenin and fired back, killing Ayser al-Amar of the Islamic Jihad faction.

Islamic Jihad confirmed al-Amar belonged to the group. Hamas said one of its men, Jawad al-Turki, was killed during the Jenin fighting.

Up to 229 confirmed hostages held by Hamas, Israel says

09:50 , Alexander Butler

The number of hostages currently being held by Hamas militants as 229, the Israeli said.

It brings the number up from the previously confirmed 224. So far, four hostages have been released.

An American mother and daughter have been released, as well as two elderly Israeli women. Qatari negotiators hope for a full release within the next few days.

A light installation in Jerusalem for those kidnapped by Hamas (EPA)

Eight more lorries carrying aid set to enter Gaza

09:40 , Alexander Butler

Eight lorries carrying food, medicine and water are expected to cross into the Gaza Strip on Friday, a senior United Nations official said.

We have gotten in approximately 74 trucks. Were expecting another eight or so today, Lynn Hastings, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, said.

Aid workers have said repeatedly that the convoys meet only a tiny fraction of the territorys mounting humanitarian needs. Prior to the war, an average of 500 trucks entered Gaza each day, according to reports.

A convoy of aid lorries cross into Gaza from Egypt last Sunday (AFP via Getty Images)

09:30 , Alexander Butler

The Israeli military said an aerial threat had been spotted in the Red Sea region and linked this to a projectile that landed on Egyptian coastal territory there.

In recent hours, an aerial threat was spotted in the Red Sea region. Combat helicopters were scrambled in response to the threat, and this matter is now being investigated, chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said.

To our understanding, the strike that took place in Egypt originated in this threat, he said in a televised briefing. Israel will work with Egypt, and the United States, and bolster regional defences against threats from the Red Sea region.

Egypt has said an unidentified drone landed near a hospital building in Taba, injuring six people.

Gaza invasion will lead to significant escalation of violence across Middle East, says ex-Obama adviser

09:20 , Adam Forrest

Ben Rhodes, the former deputy national security advisor in the Obama administration, said the current US government was worried about wider conflict  particularly attacks by Irans proxies in Syria, Iraq and Yemen.

I dont know how you have that ground invasion [in Gaza] without having a significant escalation across the region  including perhaps Hezbollah getting involved in northern Israel and the West Bank becoming much more violent and Iranian proxies being further activated in Iraq, Yemen and Syria, he told BBC Radio 4.

Mr Rhodes added: If theres not a de-escalation, if theres further escalation in Gaza I think its likely we see further incidents  if you continue to light that tinder box on fire at some point its going to catch.

He said the Joe Biden administration had caused the Israelis to at least consider the risks from an invasion, but warned: It does not seem like that message has caused them to fundamentally changed their calculus.

Palestinians look through the rubble of a building following Israeli bombardment of Khan Yunis, southern Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

What can we expect next in Israel-Hamas war? Ask our expert Kim Sengupta anything about the conflict

09:10 , Alexander Butler

What happens to Gaza if Israel make good on their promise to destroy Hamas? Who will govern it and have the responsibility of restoring a destroyed land?

If you have a question for The Independents World Affairs Editor Kim Sengupta me submit it now, or when I join you live at 12pm today for the Ask Me Anything event.

Register to submit your question in the comments box under this article linked below. If youre not already a member, click sign up in the comments section to leave your question. For a full guide on how to comment click here.

Ask expert Kim Sengupta anything about political fallout from Israel-Hamas war

Moment Hamas spokesman storms out of interview after being questioned on terror attack

09:00 , Alexander Butler

Families of Israeli victims urge world to stand against Islamist violence

08:50 , Alexander Butler

The world must take a stand against Islamist violence to avoid it spreading and take action to ensure the swift release of hostages taken by Hamas militants, families of victims said.

A delegation of relatives visited Rome to hold talks with authorities, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as part of a campaign to bolster world efforts to free the more than 200 people taken captive.

The group included Avi Eylon, whose 23-year-old daughter, Shira, was killed with a friend while attending a music festival.

Please wake up. To the people in the world, to the people in Europe, please wake up, because this is not a land conflict, this is a religious conflict, he said, saying the reason why Hamas murdered his daughter was that she was Jewish.

A woman touches photos of Israelis missing and held captive in Gaza, displayed on a wall in Tel Aviv (Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

Pictured: Destruction in Gaza

08:40 , Alexander Butler

A man with a bandage on his head sits in front of a destroyed building in Gaza after Israeli airstrikes (AFP via Getty Images)

Smoke and fire rise from buildings as rescuers gather following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza (AFP via Getty Images)

Iran launches military exercises

08:30 , Alexander Butler

Iranian ground forces have launched two days of exercises to test the flight readiness of more than 200 helicopters, according to reports.

The drills, which had been planned earlier, are aimed confronting possible threats facing the Islamic Republic, spokesperson Brigadier General Amir Cheshak told state media.

He said troops and military equipment had been transferred from seven of Irans provinces for the drills in Nasr Abad in the central Isfahan province.

It comes after the US said its fighter jets struck two Iranian facilities in Syria, after repeated attacks on US coalition forces in the region by an Iran-backed militia in the past week.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi (AP)

IDF strike Hamas 'missile launch sites' and 'command centres' in Gaza

08:20 , Alexander Butler

More than 250 lawyers urge Britain to call for a ceasefire

08:10 , Alexander Butler

More than 250 British lawyers have called on the UK government to press for a ceasefire in Gaza, claiming Israel is breaching international law.

The letter, addressed to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly and Defence Secretary Grant Shapps, calls on the British government to urgently fulfil its international legal obligations

We are moved to intervene because, in a region already accustomed to great suffering, the death and other harm visited on individuals, families and whole communities in the last 20 days has been truly terrible.

The starvation of a civilian population as a method of warfare, including wilfully impeding adequate relief supplies, as Israel is doing in Gaza, is strictly prohibited under customary international law... and constitutes a war crime.

Hamass war crimes cannot be justified by reference to prior war crimes by Israel; neither do they justify further such crimes by Israel in its response, which must comply with international law, it says.

Foreign Secretary James Cleverly (PA Wire)

Hostages cant be released until ceasefire, Hamas claims

07:56 , Alexander Butler

Hostages seized by the Hamas terror group during its cross-border raid which killed up to 1,400 Israelis cannot be released until there is a ceasefire, the group has claimed.

They seized dozens of people, most of them civilians, and we need time to find them in the Gaza Strip and then release them, Hamas official Abu Hamid told Russian newspaper Kommersant.

A calm environment was needed to complete this task, the newspaper quoted him as saying. On Thursday, Hamas said around 50 of the hostages had been killed in Israeli air strikes.

But Israel has urged Russia to expel the visiting Hamas delegation, calling their invitation to Moscow deplorable.

Light projectors signifying those abducted by Hamas illuminateJerusalem (EPA)

Nearly half of Israelis want to hold off on Gaza invasion, poll finds

07:37 , Alexander Butler

Nearly half of Israelis want to hold off on any invasion of the Gaza strip, a new poll has found.

Twenty-nine per cent of Israelis agreed while 49 per cent said it would be better to wait when asked if the IDF should immediately escalate to a large-scale ground offensive. Meanwhile, 22 per were still undecided, the poll published in the Maariv newspaper said.

The paper said the results contrasted with its poll last week which found 65 per cent of Israelis supported a major ground offensive.

Relatives of hostages that were kidnaped to the Gaza Strip call for the Israeli government to bring them back in Tel Aviv, Israel (Getty Images)

IDF strikes Hamas targets overnight

07:28 , Alexander Butler

The Israel Defence Forces said it had conducted more air strikes on Hamas terrorist targets over the last 24 hours.

IDF ground troops, fighter jets and UAVs struck anti-tank missile launch sites, command & control centers and Hamas terrorist operatives. The troops exited the area and no injuries were reported, the Israeli military said.

OPERATIONAL UPDATE: The IDF conducted strikes on Hamas terrorist targets over the last 24 hours.



IDF ground troops, fighter jets and UAVs struck:



 Anti-tank missile launch sites

 Command & control centers

 Hamas terrorist operatives



The troops exited the area and no pic.twitter.com/yNdiY6XTby  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 27, 2023

Unprecedented death toll in Gaza

07:07 , Namita Singh

The rising death tolls in Gaza are unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches an expected ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said on Wednesday that more than 750 people were killed over the past 24 hours, higher than the 704 killed the previous day.

The figures could not be independently verified and the ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants.

By comparison, 2,251 Palestinians, mostly civilians, were killed in the entire six-week-long war in 2014, according to UN figures.

Irans foreign minister said Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners abducted from Israel but that the international community must take responsibility for releasing 6,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

Hossein Amirabdollahian told an emergency meeting of the UN General Assembly on Thursday that Iran stands ready to play its part in this very important humanitarian endeavour, along with Qatar and Turkey.

Rafah crossing checks 'slow aid to dribble

07:07 , Jane Dalton

Overly stringent checks on lorries at the Rafah crossing from Egypt into Gaza were slowing the flow of humanitarian aid to a dribble as hunger grows among Palestinians there, UN World Food Programme executive director has said.

The Rafah crossing, which is controlled by Egypt and does not border Israel, has become the main point of aid delivery since Israel imposed a total siege of Gaza in retaliation for an attack by Hamas militants on 7 October.

The United States is leading negotiations with Israel, Egypt and the UN to try to create a sustained delivery mechanism for aid to Gaza.

Weve gotten a few  a dribble, just a dribble  of trucks in, Cindy McCain told Reuters. We need to get a large amount in. We need safe, unfettered access into Gaza so that we can feed and make sure that people dont starve to death, because thats whats happening.

(REUTERS)

In video: Al Jazeera reporter Wael Al Dahdouh continues to report on Gaza after the loss of family

07:05 , Namita Singh

US will not be spared from this fire, warns Iran foreign minister

06:59 , Namita Singh

On Thursday, Irans foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations that if Israels retaliation against Palestinian militants Hamas in the Gaza Strip doesnt end, then the United States will not be spared from this fire.

I say frankly to the American statesmen, who are now managing the genocide in Palestine, that we do not welcome (an)expansion of the war in the region. But if the genocide in Gaza continues, they will not be spared from this fire, he told a meeting of the 193-member General Assembly on the Middle East.

People gather amid the destruction in the aftermath of an Israeli strike on Gaza City on 26 October 2023, as battles continue between Israel and the Palestinian Hamas group (AFP via Getty Images)

One way Iran projects power is by arming and funding militant groups, including Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in the Gaza Strip, the Houthis in Yemen and Shiite militias in Iraq.

In the last such known US retaliation, the US military carried out multiple air strikes in Syria on 23 March against Iran-aligned groups it blamed for a drone attack that killed an American contractor, wounded another and hurt five US troops.

Biden sent message warning Irans Khamenei against targeting US troops

06:52 , Namita Singh

President Joe Biden has sent a rare message to Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warning Tehran against targeting US personnel in the Middle East, the White House said on Thursday after a spate of attacks on American forces in the region.

There was a direct message relayed, White House spokesperson John Kirby said at a news briefing, declining to elaborate.

US officials want to avoid a wider conflict in the Middle East following the 7 October attack by the militant Hamas group on Israel that killed at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians.

About 900 additional US troops are headed to the Middle East or have recently arrived there to bolster air defenses to protect US personnel amid a surge in attacks in the region by Iran-affiliated groups, the Pentagon said.

US troops have been attacked at least 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria in the past week, it added.

US fighter jets strike Syria after attacks by Iran-backed militia

06:43 , Namita Singh

Two US fighter jets struck weapons and ammunition facilities in Syria on Friday in what Washington said was a retaliation for attacks on US forces by an Iran-backed militia.

Joe Biden ordered strikes on the two facilities used by Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps and militia forces it backs, the Pentagon said, warning the US will take additional measures if attacks by Irans proxies continue.

US and coalition troops have been attacked at least 19 times in Iraq and in Syria by Iran-backed forces in the past week, the US officials said. Hamas, Islamic Jihad and Lebanons Hezbollah are all backed by Tehran.

Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said at the United Nations on Thursday that if Israels offensive against Hamas did not stop, the United States will not be spared from this fire.

The US air strikes took place at roughly 4.30am on Friday in Syria near Abu Kamal, a Syrian town on the border with Iraq, and were carried out by two F-16 fighter jets using precision munitions, a US defence official said.

These precision self-defence strikes are a response to a series of ongoing and mostly unsuccessful attacks against US personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups that began on 17 October, US defence secretary Lloyd Austin said in a statement.

These Iranian-backed attacks against US forces are unacceptable and must stop, Mr Austin said.

Explainer: What is Gazas ministry of health and how does it calculate death toll?

06:06 , Jane Dalton

Doctors scribble on notepads in overflowing morgues, struggling to account for bodies trapped under rubble and tossed in hastily dug mass graves. Yet the Gaza-based Ministry of Health continues to tally casualty numbers:

EXPLAINER: What is Gaza's Ministry of Health and how does it calculate the war's death toll?

Republican senators want to separate Israel funding from Ukraine aid

05:05 , Jane Dalton

A group of conservatives in the US Senate are pushing to drive a wedge between military aid for Ukraine and Israel at a time when passing legislation to support the former seems more uncertain than ever:

Republican senators want to separate Israel funding from Ukraine aid

Israel claims to have killed Hamas spy chief

04:04 , Jane Dalton

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Hamas massacre  Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit.

The military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Shadi Barud, Deputy Head of Hamas Intelligence Directorate has been eliminated by an IDF aerial strike.



He took part in the planning of the October 7 massacre and countless other deadly attacks carried out against Israelis.



We will continue to strike and eliminate Hamas  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

New photos show destruction as Israel tanks raid Gaza

03:03 , Jane Dalton

An online geolocating platform has posted photos of military vehicles and identified the location of Israels tanks at the northern border of the Gaza strip:

Gaza map shows scale of destruction of tiny strip as Israel tanks raid north

Hostages families stage demonstration in Tel Aviv

02:02 , Jane Dalton

Family members of the Israeli hostages who were kidnapped and taken to the Gaza Strip held a demonstration calling for their government to bring them back:

(Getty Images)

The evidence on who is to blame for Gaza hospital bomb

01:01 , Jane Dalton

Hamas blame the deaths on an Israeli airstrike; Israel blames a jihadist groups failed rocket:

Who is to blame for Gaza hospital bomb - we scrutinise the evidence

EU leaders stress Israels right to defend itself

Friday 27 October 2023 00:02 , Jane Dalton

Leaders of the European Unions 27 nations have emphasised Israels right to defend itself in line with international law and international humanitarian law.

The summit in Brussels was the leaders first in-person meeting since the attack that prompted Israel to bombard and blockade Hamas-run Gaza.

In their declaration, the leaders also repeated a call for Hamas to immediately release all hostages without any precondition.

They reiterated their previous condemnation in the strongest possible terms of the 7 October assault on Israel by Hamas.

The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations, the declaration also said.

In pictures: Lights memorial for the kidnapped

Thursday 26 October 2023 23:01 , Jane Dalton

A display of lights signifying those abducted by Hamas light the sky in Jerusalem:

(EPA)

(EPA)

(EPA)

Reporter whose family were killed felt duty to continue working

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:30 , Jane Dalton

An Al Jazeera reporter who was on air when he was told his wife and children had been killed in an Israeli airstrike has spoken of why he has continued working despite his agony.

Wael Al-Dahdouh said: Thank you for all your solidarity and condolences and prayers. They were really important ... I felt it was my duty to get back to work as quickly as possible, despite everything.

As you can see, the firing is going on everywhere...

I felt that it was my duty, despite the pain and the open wound, to get back in front of the camera and to communicate with you on social media as soon as possible.

UK Border Force set to help Britons escape Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 22:00 , Jane Dalton

UK Border Force teams are in Egypt to help trapped British nationals escape from Gaza when a crossing is opened, Rishi Sunak has revealed.

Around 200 Briton stuck inside the besieged enclave have been in touch with the Foreign Office, the prime minister said:

UK Border Force in Egypt to help trapped British nationals escape Gaza

EU summit calls for 'humanitarian corridors and pauses' in Gaza

Thursday 26 October 2023 20:50 , Sam Rkaina

EU leaders agreed at a summit on Thursday to call for the establishment of humanitarian corridors and pauses to get urgently-needed aid into Gaza.

The European Council expresses its gravest concern for the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza and calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses for humanitarian needs, a declaration adopted by the leaders said.

The European Union will work closely with partners in the region to protect civilians, provide assistance and facilitate access to food, water, medical care, fuel and shelter, ensuring that such assistance is not abused by terrorist organisations, added the declaration, issued at the summit in Brussels.
For the latest news on the conflict, follow our live coverage here

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said a ground offensive in Gaza is imminent while giving scant details on when it will happen.

In an address in which he described Hamas as "doomed", Netanyahu said: "I want to make it very clear, the timing of the operation of the IDF is unanimously determined by the cabinet that runs the war along with the chief of the general staff.

"We work in order to secure the best optimal conditions for their next operations."

He also suggested there may be several invasions, adding in his public address on Thursday evening: "I will not elaborate on when, how or how many."

His comments came after Israeli tanks rolled into Gaza for a "raid" ahead of the planned ground invasion.

The United States and other countries are urging Israel to delay a full invasion while Gaza itself is reeling from almost three weeks of Israeli bombing triggered by a mass killing spree in southern Israel by Iranian-backed Hamas, which runs the besieged enclave.

Yahoo News' live coverage has paused for this evening, for the latest updates please go to our homepage
[Source]

Israels de facto ambassador to Taiwan Maya Yaron commended the island's government for their strong support of Israel while expressing disappointment in China's response to the recent Hamas attack.

Israel praises Taiwan: On Thursday, Yaron praised President Tsai Ing-wen and her government, who were quick to denounce the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas militants from Palestine. Taiwan immediately expressed their deepest sympathies and solidarity with Israel.

Taiwan is really a good friend for Israel and we truly appreciate everything that we receive. Im in close touch with the foreign minister, I think people are very concerned, Yaron said, according to Reuters.

Although Taiwan and Israel do not have formal diplomatic connections, the self-governed island views Israel as a crucial ally and democratic partner.

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Israels response to China: Meanwhile, Yaron expressed disappointment at China's failure to denounce the attacks carried out by Hamas against Israeli civilians.

This is actually something that is very disturbing with China, she said.

China previously condemned the attacks on civilians in the conflict without specifically mentioning Hamas. Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi also declared Israels actions beyond the scope of self-defense.

Trending on NextShark: Ex-UCLA gymnastics star Katelyn Ohashi faces backlash for Halloween costume

Israel-Hamas U.N. development: On Wednesday, China and Russia vetoed the U.S. drive for the United Nations Security Council to act on the Israel-Hamas conflict. The U.S. had called for a pause in the war to allow humanitarian aid access, protect civilians and to stop arming Hamas and other militant groups in the Gaza Strip.

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HOPEWELL  A judge ruled Wednesday that a Hopewell city councilor is liable for money he was accused of taking from a GoFundMe account he started for the family of an eight-year-old Hopewell girl murdered last year.

General District Court Judge Craig Dunkum of Henrico County awarded Brionna Taylor $5,600, plus court costs and interest, in her claim against Dominic Holloway Sr. Holloway, who represents Ward 7 on council, has 10 days to decide if he will appeal the decision.

P'Aris Mi-Unique Angel Moore

Taylors daughter, PAris Mi-Unique Angel Moore, was shot to death Dec. 30, 2022, as she played with friends outside an east Hopewell residence. Holloway, a reported relative of the family, started the account to help the family pay for the funeral and other expenses, and at one point had raised more than $15,000.

Dunkum made his ruling following a trial that took several tense turns, particularly during his exchanges with Holloway. Most of that tension focused on Taylor filing her pleadings by the Sept. 22 deadline Dunkum set for her and Holloway not filing his defense pleadings by the judge-imposed Oct. 10 deadline.

Holloway told Dunkum he missed the deadline because he never got a copy of Taylors paperwork as had been decreed by the order. Therefore, he added, he could not defend himself against what he has not seen.

Tension in the courtroom

The testy moments, however, came when Dunkum asked Holloway about contacting the General District Court clerk to get a copy of that paperwork.

Holloway said he called the clerks office to inquire about copies but was told by the person who answered the phone that he could not receive one. Such documents are considered public records in Virginia once they are filed in court.

Dunkum asked Holloway several times if he identified himself as a person involved in the case. Each time, Holloway gave a different answer, prompting Dunkum to show some impatience.

But you didnt say, Im the defendant, or Im a party in the case, or Im the one being sued? the judge asked.

No, Holloway replied.

Dunkum recessed the court for 15 minutes to allow Holloway to review Taylors bill-of-particulars. When court reconvened, Holloway asked for a further delay of 10 days in the case because there are a lot of papers for me to look at.

Dunkum immediately rejected Holloways request, then admonished him for not following through with the clerks office about getting a copy of the indictment.

"I don't believe anyone in the clerk's office would not give out that information," Dunkum told Holloway. The documents, he noted, are public records, and anyone in this courtroom would be able to get a copy.

An especially tense moment came when Dunkum reminded Holloway that he could have gone ahead and found in Taylors favor since he never filed his grounds for defense. But Im bending over backwards in an effort to be fair to you, he said.

If youre being fair, Holloway said, then youd give me more time. He later said that if Dunkum wanted to go that route, that was fine with him because I took an oath and swore before my Lord to tell the truth, and my faith is very important to me.

Dunkum also took issue with receipts Holloway claimed were from the U.S. Postal Service emailed to him alerting when he was getting mail. Holloway claimed he had not received any notification that Taylor was sending him copies of her pleadings.

Dunkum said the copies were hard to read; therefore, he could not allow them into evidence. He also admitted that USPS was not 100% foolproof in delivery.

Taylor testified that she put copies in a plain envelope with two stamps to cover postage, and she put them in her personal mailbox with the flag up for her postal carrier to pick up.

I did not take a picture of myself putting the envelope in the mailbox, she said.

Talking and over-talking

Dunkum also verbally sparred several times with Holloway over what he perceived as Holloway attempting to speak while the judge was talking.

You need to listen, Dunkum told him one time. You have a tendency to speak when I want to speak.

Holloway was not the only one to be admonished for speaking out of turn. Dunkum also had to call Taylor down once for it.

Everybody likes to get ahead of me, he said with a slight smile. Please dont.

Dunkum asked Taylor about discrepancies in her pleadings about money totals. Taylor replied that she initially asked for the $5,600 because thats what he told me out of his own mouth what was left in the account. Asked by the judge for clarity on the amount she was seeking, she confirmed the $5,600 amount.

Taylor testified she had relied on Holloway to keep her informed about what was being spent from the account. She said he told her that the $5,600 that was left in the account went to child support that he needed to pay.

Holloway had previously denied he said that, but he did not mention that denial in court Wednesday.

After the trial, Taylor left without making a comment. Immediately after court ended, Holloway was booked on a charge of embezzlement by a public officer for allegedly misrepresenting an almost $700 charge on the Hopewell city clerks credit card. He was released on a $7,500 bond. Progress-Index reporter Bill Atkinson was called to testify before the grand jury about the facts in his investigative story about the charge. Atkinsons testimony about his reporting on this topic adhered to Gannetts standards on protecting sources and followed our Principles of Ethical Conduct For Newsrooms.

More: Holloway indicted: Hopewell councilor charged with embezzlement of public funds

Dunkum was appointed to hear the case after Hopewell General District Court Judge Peter Eliades recused himself because Hopewell City Council funds part of the local court's budget. Should Holloway opt to appeal the case to Circuit Court, it is expected that a judge from outside the Sixth Judicial Circuit would be brought in to hear the case.

Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Judge finds Hopewell councilor liable in GoFundMe civil suit
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  Kansas City International Airport and its passengers have set a new record for the month of September.

The airport had the busiest September in its 50 year history.

According to Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas , KCI had 991,859 passengers arrive and depart from the airport in September. Its a 13.1 percent increase from September 2022 and passenger boardings were up 13 percent, with a total if 494, 995 boarded.

Hispanic artists proud to show off work in new KCI terminal

Year-to-date passenger boardings are up 19.3 percent, with a total of 4,289,961. For the year to date, the total number of passengers in and out is up 19.1 percent with 8,604,946.

I am proud of the overwhelming positive feedback our brand-new Kansas City International Airport is continuing to receive over the past six months and I am thrilled we are continuing to break boarding records, Mayor Lucas said.

A busy and active KCI means more jobs and continued local economic growth long-term. We will continue to work with airlines to further expand domestic and international service out of Kansas City.

The number of peak-day scheduled aircraft departures for September was 154. Service was offered to 48 nonstop markets.

KCI ranks as most budget friendly airport parking: study

There was an average of 41,219 people arriving and departing scheduled seats in the market each day. The all-cargo carriers reported nine daily departures for September.

It is with great enthusiasm that we announce this new September record at Kansas City International Airport, Interim Aviation Director Justin Meyer said. We are thankful for our airline partners whove added new flights and new destinations, and to the passengers who took advantage of more than 300 daily flights to and from Kansas City last month.

Its quite an achievement for the new terminal, as its only been in existence since February of this year.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Transparency Market Research

Increasing research and innovations in treatment methods will continue to grow the market. Increasing investments and an aging population will lead to increased demand for cell therapies.

Wilmington, Delaware, United States, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Transparency Market Research Inc. - The market for cell therapy was valued at US$ 10 million US$ 10 million in 2022. The CAGR between 2022 and 2032 is expected to reach 18.7%. By 2032, the market is expected to reach US$ 54.6 million . Several rare and genetic diseases are being treated with cell therapies. Researchers will continue to investigate these conditions, and clinical trials will develop, which may increase demand for cell therapies.



An individual's genetic and immunological profile can be tailored by cell therapy to provide highly personalized treatments. Personalized medicine and genomics could increase the demand for cell therapies. Degenerative diseases and injuries can often be treated with regenerative medicine, which often uses stem cells. Global demand for regenerative cell therapies may increase as the population ages and suffers injuries.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=63273

Several types of autoimmune diseases are also being studied using cell therapies. With their effectiveness, these therapies might be more in demand. Cell therapies could become more affordable and accessible as biotechnology and manufacturing processes advance.

By evaluating and approving new cell therapies, such as those approved by the FDA in the United States and the EMA in Europe, regulatory agencies can improve confidence in the safety and efficacy of these therapies, therefore increasing their demand.

Key Findings of Market Report

The United Kingdom is forecast to see a CAGR of 21.4% in cell therapy between 2022 and 2032.

Cell therapy is expected to reach a value of US$ 2.5 billion in Japan.

The cell therapy market in South Korea is projected to reach a valuation of US$ 1 billion by 2032.

Cell therapy market revenue for research-use types increased by 18.2% over the forecast period.

The autologous therapies market generated the highest revenue, along with a CAGR of 18.2%, during the forecast period.



Story continues

Market Trends for Cell Therapy

A growing number of diseases are becoming chronic and degenerative, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and neurological disorders. With an increasing number of patients suffering from these conditions, cell therapy offers a promising treatment option.

Several types of cancer, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases can be treated with cell therapy, which provides innovative treatment options. These therapies are considered potential solutions by patients and healthcare providers.

The use of stem cells is a fundamental component of regenerative medicine. Regeneration and functional recovery of tissues and organs can be achieved with this procedure. Age-related conditions, such as osteoarthritis and neurodegenerative diseases, are becoming more common as the global population ages. A significant role can be played by cell therapy in the management of these conditions.

Several clinical trials have proven the effectiveness of cell therapy, boosting its popularity. The use of CAR-T cells in the treatment of certain types of cancer has shown remarkable results, attracting significant investment and interest. With advancements in stem cell research, gene editing, and biotechnology, cell therapies are now safer, more effective, and more scalable.

Public and private investments in research and development have accelerated the innovation and availability of cell therapy therapies. Globalization of healthcare and patients' desire for advanced treatments are driving the global demand for cell therapy products and services.



Enquiry Before Buying @ https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=EB&rep_id=63273

Global Market for Cell Therapy Regional Outlook

North America is expected to drive demand for cell therapy in the market. Clinical trials and therapies involving CAR-T cells have generated widespread interest and increased demand. Cancer and other chronic diseases are becoming more prevalent as the population in North America ages. advanced treatments, such as cell therapy, is growing demand for cell therapy in coming years.

Asia Pacific region is expected to drive demand for cell therapy in the market. A rise in government funding and investments will drive demand for cell therapy. FDA approvals for various indications of cell therapy have expanded treatment options in the United States.

Research and development have led to the development of new and innovative treatments. As patients and healthcare professionals become more aware of cell therapy's potential, its demand is on the rise.



Global Cell Therapy: Key Players

Several local and global players dominate cell therapy markets. The number of local players entering the market will increase over the next few years, which will intensify competition. Companies that manufacture cell therapy products use various marketing strategies.

Key players in specializing in cell therapy include:

Smith & Nephew

NuVasive

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

Kolon Tissue Gene

JCR Pharmaceuticals

Cells for Cells

Hitachi Chemical Co Ltd

Thermo Fisher Scientific

Charles River Laboratories



Key Developments in the Global Cell Therapy Market

In October 2023, AGC Biologics, a world-leading CDMO, announced that it would be providing services to Medigene AG. Medigene has entered into an agreement with AGC Biologics to provide an autologous production service for next-generation cancer therapies. At AGC Biologics' Cell and Gene Center of Excellence in Milan, Medigene's product candidate will undergo a process transfer and clinical manufacturing.

In October 2023, Regen BioPharma, Inc. previously announced that it would initiate studies aimed at validating its DuraCAR CAR T-cell therapeutic and identifying new, unexpected, potentially valuable findings for developing cell therapies for autoimmune disorders.

Global Cell Therapy Market: Segmentation

By Use Type

Clinical use Therapeutic Area Cell Type

Research Use

By Therapy Type

Allogenic Therapies

Autologous Therapies

By Region

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Middle East & Africa

Latin America



Place an Order Copy of Cell Therapy Market Report at: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=63273<ype=S

About Transparency Market Research

Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

Contact:

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Transparency Market Research Inc.

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This past Sunday morning, as my 4-year-old, Omari, and I were preparing for church, I inadvertently had the television on a network station as they reported on and showed images of the war in Gaza. He saw some images of shooting and bombing and asked me what they were doing, I said they were fighting a war. His response, as he started crying was, Change it Dada, they are killing people, I dont want to watch it, change it!

I changed the station immediately. I used the word inadvertently earlier, because I have not been able to watch those images and I avoid watching them because some of those scenes are too graphic and harrowing. I, on my own, change the station anytime I see any of those scenes, without being told by a crying 4-year-old.

War and conflict are brutal. These conflicts, for the most part, stem from the struggle over scarce resources  economics. I remember, years ago, when children were asked what they wished for, many would respond, world peace. I am unsure what the response is now, since conflict has become such an integral part of our daily lives. Have we lost sight of world peace and see it as an impossibility?

Conflicts are all around us every day  on the micro level, we have conflicts in our homes, at work and in our communities. On the macro level, there are conflicts at the national and state level, there are wars such as in Israel/Gaza, Ukraine and Ethiopia. I wonder if any of this could be avoided, minimized or resolved. Certainly, for peace to prevail, these have to be resolved. I have no idea how peace can be negotiated on the macro level other than through diplomacy, but its difficult to talk when you are involved in a life and death battle. Resolution on all levels is possible when cool heads prevail and dialogue begins. Unfortunately, in this world, there are those who thrive on conflict and those who try to avoid it. It is difficult to negotiate with anyone who thrives on conflict and refuses to dialogue or even listen.

As war rages in the Middle East and Ukraine, I wanted to share with you the many other macro-level conflicts around the world. According to wisevoter.com, there are 32 countries currently in conflict, including terrorist insurgencies, drug wars and civil wars.

Terrorist insurgencies, which in some cases have claimed over 10,000 lives are present in the following countries: Algeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Iraq, Ivory Coast, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia and Uganda.

Civil wars are raging in Afghanistan, Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Libya, Mali, Myanmar, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen.

Drug wars are in Colombia and Mexico.

Wars are in Russia, Ukraine, Israel and Lebanon.

Other conflicts/confrontations include in Haiti, Venezuela, Syria, Lebanon, Azerbaijan and Nagorno-Karabakh, Pakistan, territorial disputes in the South Sea of China, North Korea crisis, Turkey and armed Kurdish groups, U.S. confrontation with Iran, and confrontation over Taiwan.

The Council on Foreign Relations, cfr.org, has a global conflict tracker that provides a thorough analysis of many of these conflicts and wars, including the history and current state as well as their impact on the U.S.

My point is, there are just too many conflicts, and according to the United Nations, they are on the rise. We just cant seem to get along in this world. According to a study by the Institute of Economics and Peace, over 238,000 people died in conflicts around the world in 2022. The most fatal wars have been in Ethiopia and Ukraine. They also estimate that the average economic cost of violence in the 10 most conflict-affected countries in the world is equivalent to 41% of their gross domestic product (GDP). According to 2021 Economic Value of Peace report, the global impact of wars/violence is estimated to be $14.4 trillion. That is enough to end world hunger 42 times over! As violence disrupts these economies, the effects are felt long after the conflict subsides, and almost everyone is worse off.

What is my greatest wish? Peace, as we strive to get along as individuals and in our communities, and world peace so Omari never has to see such images as he grows up. I can easily change a television station, but I wish I could change the world for Omari.

Kojo Quartey, Ph.D., is president of Monroe County Community College and an economist. He can be reached at kquartey@monroeccc.edu.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Kojo Quartey: Conflicts escalating around the world
Soldiers from the military rabbinate unit open containers full of bodies and body parts of people slain in the Hamas attack on Israel at the military morgue on the Shura Army Base near Ramla on Tuesday. Photo by Debbie Hill/UPI

Three points need further elaboration and understanding why what is happening in Israel is not just a war from hell.

That war is hell is often dismissed or appreciated by those who never fought one. The second is that Gaza is the world's largest IED for improvised explosive devices. And last, while a full-fledged Israeli invasion will be disastrous, a long-term occupation will be catastrophic and the nightmare from hell.

Since Vietnam, American forces have not taken very heavy casualties, realizing that even one is a tragedy for the victim and his or her family. In the first Gulf War, from 1990 to 1991, the United States lost 149 service personnel in action and 849 wounded in Operation Desert Storm. This was an extraordinarily low number, as some 600,000 U.S. forces were engaged, most not seeing combat.

In the second Iraq War, beginning in 2003, the U.S. Department of Defense reported 4,431 Americans died in battle and 941 due to non-hostile action. In Afghanistan, 2,254 Americans died in action, 505 for non-hostile reasons.

In Desert Storm, media reporting on precision strikes in which collateral damage to civilians was minimal lulled many in Congress and the public that immaculate warfare had arrived. America and its allies could overwhelm conventional armies, navies and air forces while suffering few casualties.

The Holocaust Revival Museum in Yad Mordechai near the border with the Gaza Strip was hit by a Hamas rocket on Monday. Photo by Jim Hollander/UPI

When the United States invaded Afghanistan in October 2002 in response to 9/11, American special forces riding horseback calling fires from B-52s, combined with Afghanistan's Northern Alliance providing land power, collapsed Taliban rule. The image was one of imaginative immaculate war for our side.

When the United States initiated Operation Iraqi Freedom two years later, U.S. Army and Marine forces swiftly advanced to Baghdad, eviscerating Saddam Hussein's army along the way. Then reality took hold in Afghanistan and Iraq. Insurgencies sprung up. And the United States could not defeat them, even with precision strike.

A Palestinian man reacts as the body of his daughter is unearthed from under the rubble after an Israeli strike on on a home in Rafah in southern Gaza Strip on Sunday. Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI

But the lessons of war became unmistakably clear in Ukraine. Russia has lost about half its military capacity, suffering at least 150,000-200,000 casualties, a majority probably killed in action. Ukraine has not released a casualty list. However, casualties may number between 100,000-150,000.

What happens if or when Israel chooses to attack en masse. The Ukraine war will be a better predictor of intensity and casualties than Afghanistan or Iraq. And the examples of post-war occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq should not be ignored.

People extract water from an artesian well in Rafah refugee camp in the southern of Gaza Strip on Saturday as Israeli airstrikes continued. Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI

The distinction is that Hamas has turned Gaza into the world's largest IED, perhaps making it a more formidable and longer-term enemy than in Iraq and Afghanistan. Whether Israel will stay that course is as unknowable as to if or when it decides to invade Gaza. What is knowable is that the casualties, both of combatants and civilians, and levels of destruction could approach those in Ukraine.

These two points reinforce the last one. No invasion or war can be immaculate. No invasion can limit casualties on all sides, given the nature of urban and city warfare. Since Hamas is integral to Gaza and endemic to the population, weeding it out is akin to treating cancer that has spread throughout every major organ and part of the body with surgery. That will not work.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks at the U.N. Security Council in September. The lessons of war have become unmistakably clear in Ukraine. Photo by Jason Szenes/UPI

Consider what a strip of land of 140 square miles might look like after an Israeli offensive. Gaza could be even more demolished than Berlin and Tokyo, or worst case, Hiroshima and Nagasaki, had conventional weapons obliterated both in 1945. Its population would be in critical need of food, water, shelter and medical assistance. Even if electricity could be generated, how can it access people needing it in the rubble? And a further nightmare from hell could be a million or more Gazans having lost everything turning against the occupiers.

Vladimir Lenin raised the question of what is to be done. The strategic and commonsensical response is not to invade. Instead, blockade Gaza; selectively target Hamas to the point of making it impotent; cobble together a government, perhaps headed by the Palestinian Authority; and rely on international aid.

However rational, that is doomed to fail.

Israelis do not have the resources or patience for such a long-term strategy. Precision strike will not prevent collateral damage. Any blockade will take a significant toll on civilians. This will advantage Hamas' propaganda and public relations strategies. And Israel will face a long-term attrition strategy it may not be able to sustain.

Plans B, C, D and F are welcome. Yet the desperate reality is that there are no options. This then would truly be the nightmare from hell.

Harlan Ullman is UPI's Arnaud de Borchgrave Distinguished Columnist, a senior adviser at Washington's Atlantic Council, the prime author of "shock and awe" and author of "The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large." Follow him @harlankullman. The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.
Sen. Bob Menendez s (D-N.J.) approval rating dropped to single digits among New Jersey residents, according to a new poll.

The poll by Stockton University, released Thursday, found only 8 percent of New Jersey residents were favorable of Menendez, while 72 percent had an unfavorable opinion of him.

The poll results come days after Menendez pleaded not guilty to a charge alleging he conspired with his wife and a New Jersey businessman to act as an unregistered foreign agent of the Egyptian government. Menendez has faced a wave of criticism since the indictment was unveiled against him last month that accused him and his wife of accepting bribes on behalf of interests in Egypt that totaled more than $600,000.

The poll found nearly 80 percent of New Jersey residents were very familiar or somewhat familiar with the charges that Menendez is facing. About 1 in 5 residents said they were not familiar, according to the poll.

The poll also found 71 percent said the senior New Jersey senator should resign from his office, while 8 percent said he should not. Another 17 percent said they were unsure.

Calls for Menendezs resignation came from both sides of the aisle in the poll, with 78 percent of Democrats and 79 percent of Republicans saying he should step down. These responses echo U.S. lawmakers calls for Menendez to resign, as a slew of Democrat senators urged him to do so following the indictment.

The new poll also backs up previous polling from Fairleigh Dickinson University from earlier this month, which found that 70 percent of New Jersey residents want Menendez to step down.

The New Jersey senator has repeatedly said he will not step down from office. He has not yet said whether he would be pursuing a fourth term as he is up for reelection next year, but New Jersey Rep. Andy Kim (D) announced last month that he would challenge Menendez in the primary.

The Stockton University poll was conducted among 630 New Jersey residents between Oct. 9-18 and has a margin of error of 3.9 percentage points.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.  A new Missouri law authorizes the state to cover costs of highway memorial signs in honor of fallen first responders and service members killed in the line of duty.

Prior to this year, families were billed for Missouri highway memorials that honored fallen veterans.

Gameday in the dark: Power outage will hit entire town during Chiefs game

Missouri Governor Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 127 into action earlier this year, meaning the state will cover costs for highway memorials rather than families. Within the new law is the FA Paul Akers, Junior, and LCPL Jared Schmitz Memorial Sign Funding Act, which took effect in August.

According to the law, All costs associated with the designation of bridges or highways honoring deceased Missouri veterans who died in the line of duty, Missouri members of the Armed Forces who are missing in action, deceased Missouri law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, or deceased Missouri firefighters who died in the line of duty shall be paid by the Department of Transportation.

In 2021, Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz of Wentzville was one of 13 U.S. service members killed in a suicide bombing at a Kabul airport. It happened as the U.S. attempted to withdraw military forces from Afghanistan.

Earlier this year, FOX4 sister station KTVI learned that even though the state of Missouri honored Schmitz with a memorial sign on Interstate 70 near Wentzville, the state also sent a bill for the sign to his family, leaving his family, community members and lawmakers shocked.

Basketball Wives star Brittish Cierrah Williams sentenced to prison

Another service member with Missouri roots, Fireman Apprentice Paul Akers Jr. died in 1969 when the USS Enterprise exploded and burned off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii. Legislators also learned his family was billed for a highway memorial sign in his memory.

The legislation not only allows Missouri to cover costs associated with highway signs honoring Schmitz and Akers, but fallen first responders and service members who might be honored with a highway memorial sign in the future.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
She's topped the charts around the world, has a legion of fans and has won countless awards for hits like Think Twice and My Heart Will Go On.

But one New Zealand town says it has had enough of Celine Dion , after car drivers joined a craze of blasting out her ballads at 2am.

Residents of Porirua have launched a petition to bring an end to the noise.

But participants of the so-called siren battles say they are a way to express themselves.

The battles involve groups of people gathering in an area with their cars, blasting music from sirens more typically used for emergency warnings.

The idea is to play music from the sirens the loudest - and the clearest.

French-Canadian diva Dion has become the artist of choice not only because of her popular emotional ballads, but because much of her music - including Oscar-winning My Heart Will Go On, from 1997 film Titanic - has high treble, NZ website The SpinOff reports.

"Celine Dion is popular because it's such a clear song - so we try to use music that has high treble, is clear and not much bass," Paul Lesoa, one of founders of a group that runs siren battles in Auckland, told the site.

The cars can have anywhere between seven to 10 sirens, with competitions usually held throughout the night. They take weeks to prepare for, as participants source sirens online and solder speakers and amplifiers to frames that sit on cars.

Mr Lesoa told The SpinOff he felt the stigma around the battles was unfair.

"We just love music, we love dancing, and doing this is better than night clubbing or drinking in a bar in the city, where there's fights etc," he said.

He said he had applied to Auckland Council for a permit but was yet to hear back.

"Basically everyone has a hobby and while our hobby can be quite disturbing and we understand how disturbing it can be, we just want our own proper, safe space away from people to do it."

Wes Gaarkeuken - the author of a petition hoping to stop the siren battles in Porirua, on the North Island - said taxpayers are "tired of the inaction and dismissive attitude shown by the council and the mayor concerning this issue".

The petition has amassed hundreds of signatures and calls on the Porirua City Council to stop people blasting the music all night.

One man, Stephen Lewis, wrote next to his signature that "sleep is a basic human right".

Another woman, Diana Paris, conceded that while she enjoyed listening to Dion "in the comfort of my lounge and at my volume, I do not enjoy hearing fragments of it stopping and starting at any time between 7pm and 2am".

Porirua City Council had previously reached an agreement with those participating in the siren battles, which involved groups going to industrial areas and finishing by 10pm. But the battles have returned to the town.

Mayor Anita Baker told Radio New Zealand she was "sick to death" of the battles and wanted participants to return to areas where not everyone would have to listen to them.

"We haven't got anywhere in our city where there's not houses that would hear anything."

RNZ recently revealed that police had received up to 40 reports of incidents between early February and early October this year.

Earlier this year, Dion cancelled all the shows she had scheduled for 2023 and 2024, telling fans she was not strong enough to tour after being diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder.
Groups gather to call Republican senators to end their walkout at Oregon State Capitol May 11 in Salem.

Five Oregon Republicans challenging Secretary of State LaVonne Griffin-Valade's decision barring them from running for reelection will make their arguments directly to the Oregon Supreme Court.

The Oregon Supreme Court on Tuesday accepted the Court of Appeals' certification sending the lawsuit straight to them. Both parties had jointly requested the case to head directly to the state Supreme Court, arguing a decision is needed prior to the March 2024 candidate filing deadline.

Tim Knopp, R-Bend; Daniel Bonham, R-The Dalles; Suzanne Weber, R-Tillamook; Dennis Linthicum, R-Klamath Falls; and Lynn Findley, R-Vale; are challenging the validity of Griffin-Valade's earlier administrative rule barring the five from running for and holding office during their immediate next term after they participated in the 2023 legislative walkout.

Nine Oregon Republican lawmakers and one Independent lawmaker halted work in the Capitol for six weeks during the 2023 legislative session in protest of various bills.

The 10 lawmakers each accumulated more than 10 unexcused absences during the walkout and triggered the voter-approved Measure 113 for the first time. The measure disqualifies lawmakers with 10 or more unexcused absences from floor sessions in a single session from holding office.

Supporters of the ballot measure had hoped it would prevent further use of the walkout tactic Republicans have used in recent years to block passage of bills through the denial of quorum.

On Aug. 8, Griffin-Valade directed the state elections division to implement the rule officially barring legislators who accrued 10 or more unexcused absences during the 2023 legislative session from running for legislative seats in the 2024 election.

It is clear voters intended Measure 113 to disqualify legislators from running for reelection if they had 10 or more unexcused absences in a legislative session, Griffin-Valade said earlier this month. My decision honors the voters intent by enforcing the measure the way it was commonly understood when Oregonians added it to our state constitution.

Republicans in their challenge argue the actual language of the implemented measure says otherwise.

Ten or more unexcused absences during a legislative session "shall disqualify the member from holding office as a Senator or Representative for the term following the election after the member's current term is completed," reads the constitutional amendment.

Elections are held before a lawmaker's current term is completed, meaning any disqualification would be for the terms beginning on January 2029 and 2031 instead, the Republicans say.

"Petitioners contend that, under Article IV, section 15, if a legislator accrues ten or more unexcused absences during a legislative term, the legislator is barred from running for election for the term after next, rather than for the next term," wrote John DiLorenzo, attorney for the five Republicans, in an October brief to the Supreme Court.

Griffin-Valade rejected the argument in her initial ruling. She said the explanatory statement in the voters' pamphlet, the ballot title and the news coverage made it clear consequences would be immediate.

Courts have "emphasized" that voters' intent matters when interpreting the text of adopted ballot measures, Griffin-Valade added in her ruling.

With its decision to accept the case, the Oregon Supreme Court also set an updated schedule ordering Griffin-Valade's team to file their own answering brief by Friday.

Oral arguments are set to begin Dec. 14 at 1:30 p.m. in Salem.

Dianne Lugo covers the Oregon Legislature and equity issues. Reach her at dlugo@statesmanjournal.com or on Twitter @DianneLugo

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon Supreme Court to hear Republicans' challenge to reelection ban
A Houma toddler was beaten to death because of "accidents" during potty training, prosecutors allege.

"The evidence establishes that the victim was being physically abused by [Maya] Jones and/or [Jermaine] Robinson for a period of time prior to July 12, 2022, and that the abuse was the result of the victim having 'accidents while undergoing potty training,'" the motions argue.

The 2-year-old's body was found inside a duffel bag, discarded in a garbage can a block from the Houma Police Department July 12, 2022. The department alleges that Maya Gwenlyn Jones, 28, and Jermaine Michael Robinson, 37, had carried the childs body for hours on Houma streets in a black duffel bag, then dumped the bag in a trash bin on Daspit Street. The Terrebonne Parish Coroner's Office determined Ezekiel Harry had died of head injuries.

The two were indicted Aug. 12 on first-degree murder and obstruction of justice charges in the death of Ezekiel Harry. Both have pleaded not guilty.

Ezekiel Harry.

Jones is represented by Christine Lehmann, a senior attorney at the Louisiana Capital Assistance Center. Robinson is represented by Kerry Cuccia, director of the Capital Defense Project of Southeast Louisiana.

The case is being heard in Judge Jason Dagate's, Division B, Houma Courtroom, and the two will now face trial separately.

The prosecutors, Terrebonne Parish Assistant District Attorneys Herbert "Bud" Barnes and Jason Lyons, were responding to motions by Lehmann's team to keep Jones's other children's medical records from being used in the case.

Detective Lawrence Arceneaux obtained search warrants, signed by Judge Timothy Ellender, to gather medical records from five hospitals, as well as all evidence of communication between Jones and others from the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services, and from The Haven.

2-year-old Ezekiel Harry at play in school. Harry's body was found July 12 in a trash can on Daspit Street in Houma.

Jones's attorneys argued the warrants were too broad, lacked probable cause and asked for the documents to be returned or destroyed. Robinson's attorneys want the documents to be allowed in the case. They are seeking the documents because they claim it would help Robinson's case.

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More: Nebraska man charged with rape involving 11-year-old

Prosecutors argue that evidence from the investigations led detectives to look into potential child abuse of her other children.

Houma Police Department revealed this image of Maya Jones, and Jermaine Robinson. Officials say Ezekiel Harry's dead body is in the bag.

"Based on information obtained during interviews with Jones's other children (the victim's siblings), it is believed that the abuse did not start with the victim," prosecutors argued. "Obviously indicating that some or all of the children had given statements of previous abuse suffered by the victim or one or more of the children."

Dagate allowed the records to be part of the case. Jones's attorneys filed into evidence three Children's Advocacy Center video recordings of her other children.

This article originally appeared on The Courier: Potty training led to Ezekiel Harry's murder, prosecutors allege
Qualcomm is taking another stab at an Arm PC system-on-a chip, this time based on the new Oryon cores that come from its purchase of Nuvia. The new chip, the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, will launch in laptops in mid-2024 and was unveiled today at the company's annual conference in Hawaii.



The chips are the latest volley in the attempt to successfully move more Windows users onto Arm. While the operating system support is there, there have been performance and compatibility issues with the Snapdragon 8cx chips. Now, Qualcomm says that Snapdragon X Elite will deliver far better efficiency with equivalent or better performance than competitors (a claim we'll have to test next year).



"We believe that this is like a pivotal moment for us," Kedar Kondap, senior vice president and general manager of compute and gaming at Qualcomm told Tom's Hardware in an interview. "Because what you will see with the Snapdragon X Elite platform is something you haven't seen before in terms of leadership, in terms of technology, performance per watt. You'll see the Qualcomm Oryon CPU distinguish itself in terms of its capabilities and the efficiency that it will drive."

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Qualcomms chip, using TSMC's 4-nanometer process on a single die, will have 12 "high-performance" Oryon cores on each chip going up to 3.8 GHz. However, of those 12 chips, the company says single- or dual-core boost up to 4.3 GHz is possible. The cores are batched into three clusters of four on the die.

The chip will have up to 64GB of LPDDR5x RAM, with up to 136 GB/s of memory bandwidth, and 42MB of total cache.

Qualcomm

Qualcomm is pushing the chip as having "best-in-class" multi-threaded CPU performance. The company showed journalists charts of performance compared to a competitor's 10-core and 12-core laptop chips, showing up to twice the performance in Geekbench 6.1 at one-third of the power. (Qualcomm didn't name the chips in its presentation, but later told me the 10-core chip is a Intel Core i7-1355U and the 12-core chip is a Core i7-1360P). Compared to a 14-core chip on the same test (later clarified as the Intel Core i7-13800H), Qualcomm showed significant improvements in performance per watt, and it suggested the Snapdragon X Elite gets up to a 60% performance improvement.

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The company also claims a "50% better peak multi-thread performance" against an "ARM-based competitor." Though it didn't say which competitor, in a briefing Qualcomm suggested it was the "latest M2," presumably the standard Apple M2. That slide doesn't even have an accompanying chart, making Apple's briefings looks deeply technical in comparison.



All of this is to say that while it sounds exciting, we'll need to test a laptop with one of these chipset to see how it really performs.

Qualcomm

The integrated graphics consists of Qualcomm's Adreno GPU, which it says delivers up to 4.6 Teraflops of performance. It supports a laptop screen up to 4K at 120 Hz with HDR 10, with external support for three 4K monitors or dual 5K displays. (Apple's M2 Pro only supports two external displays, while the M2 Max can handle four, depending on resolution and refresh rate).

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Again, Qualcomm used unnamed competitors in its comparirons, but later clarified when asked specifically that "Competitor A" is the Intel Core i7-13800H, while "Competitor B" is the AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS. It claims the Snapdragon X Elite's GPU offers approximately twice the performance of the competition in 3D Mark WildLife Extreme at one-fourth the power, while it claimed 80% improvement at one-fifth the power against a different integrated GPU.

Qualcomm

Qualcomm isn't listing a specific TDP for the Snapdragon X Elite. I've been told that it "dynamically scales performance across various TDPs," which will seemingly depend on what laptop manufacturers choose to do with it. The company suggested that the chip will be in several form factors, including clamshells, 2-in-1s, and both fanless and actively cooled machines, the latter of which would almost certainly provide the strongest performance.

All About AI

Possibly because everything is about AI now, or possibly because Qualcomm has been building AI features for smartphones for a bit now, it's no surprise that Qualcomm is pushing the Snapdragon Elite X as a chip meant to handle generative AI tasks.

Qualcomm

"You will see the NPU, or the intelligence in the PC, get elevated to a level that no one has ever seen before" Kondap said. "What we're focused on is taking all of the models that we all hear about, like Llama 2 and stuff, making sure they drive the best experience, and then enabling this whole ecosystem of applications as well as partnerships that ISVs [independent software vendors] and partners can take advantage of this NPU to drive a much better experience."



Qualcomm claims you can run 13 billion parameters on device (it specifically called out Meta's Llama 2 open source language model). It also suggested it could run a 7-billion parameter model at 30 tokens per second. Qualcomm says its AI Engine has a 2.5 times faster tensor accelerator than previous laptop chips, with twice as much shared memory. Qualcomm is suggesting the Snapdragon X Elite's NPU is operating 45 trillion operations per second (TOPS).

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Kondap predicts that enterprise may be among the first to embrace AI, and that models running on device, as opposed to in the cloud, will be important for security.

Another smaller NPU, the "Micro NPU" is part of another part of the chip that Qualcomm calls the "sensing hub," which includes well, the sensors, including cameras, microphones, and also connectivity. This is the part of the chip controlling the Wi-Fi module (including Wi-Fi 7 support), and camera features (Qualcomm says it's an "always-sensing ISP").

Qualcomm

Qualcomm states that the new chip supports Windows Studio Effects, but that's table stakes. Heck, Qualcomm already did that on Surface devices. The company also promises support for "many other AI-accelerated applications and experiences." The bet, then, is that many more AI apps are going to come with a focus on local performance.

Efficiency, we're told

For Apple, switching from x86 to Arm brought huge gains in efficiency. That's been the promise for Windows on Arm, but it hasn't materialized yet. Qualcomm is calling the Snapdragon X Elite's efficiency "game-changing."



In a press release, Qualcomm claimed that the chip is efficient enough to support "multiple days of battery life." I suspect that includes time with the device asleep. The company hasn't ball-parked any numbers. On the one hand, that makes sense: Battery life depends on the device, including the size of the battery, as well as other parts like the display. On the other hand, we'll have to wait quite a while to see how long these chips last on our battery test.



Over the summer, reports popped up that Qualcomm was requiring the use of its power management integrated circuits (PMICs) with the Oryon-based processors. Kondap said that Qualcomm's PMICs are "an option for OEMs to choose," and that the company has been providing them for "many years now."



"We come from a legacy where, for us, power and performance per watt is very important in how we architect our platforms" he said, pointing out all of the Snapdragon Elite X's features. "We control the power within our SoC very tightly, right? So we have a lot of, for example, dedicated power rails on how we manage power across different use cases and how this is managed. And there's a reason why we spend a lot of time thinking about this first, because it obviously matters, right? If you go back to any consumer and ask what's the most important thing to them, they will say battery life."

Snapdragon X Elite laptops and Windows compatibility

The Snapdragon X Elite will show up in computers from "leading OEMs" in mid-2024, according to Qualcom''s press release. As of this writing, there haven't been any announcements about who Qualcomm's partners are and what kinds of devices they plan to build. I'm told we'll hear more about partners during the Snapdragon Summit, though product specifics may be further out.

"You'll start to see devices drive a good, premium experience," Kondap said. "So you'll see us in multiple form factors, right from whether they're thin and light fanless designs all the way to detachable laptops to clamshell. So you'll see us in a variety of form factors over time with the Snapdragon X Elite." He notes, however, that Qualcomm is "obviously not targeting high end gaming as a category with X Elite right now."

Kondap suggests, that with partnerships with Adobe, Microsoft, and Da Vinci, that "casual content creation" will be a focus for the laptops, and perhaps "casual gaming."



Perhaps the biggest worry I've had with Snapdragon-based laptops before is app compatibility. Some software has never been made native, and I've seen issues with games and anti-virus. Kondap tells me that in partnership with Microsoft, "significant" progress has been made.



Part of this, Kondap suggests, is due to the Windows on Arm Dev Kit (previously known as Project Volterra). "We actually have lots of developers working on these platforms, optimizing specifically to porting their applications on Snapdragon," he said.



That is the second part of a three-step process, he suggests. The first is that Qualcomm and Microsoft get the emulation up to snuff so that any app you open works. The second is getting developers to make native apps for Arm and Snapdragon. Third is getting developers to use the NPU, Oryon cores and other parts of the new chip to take full advantage of it. He said the emulation is looking "very promising," and that Qualcomm is going after a long list of applications - perhaps the top 200 to 300 apps. Of course, he points out that Microsoft has made its apps native, and that more anti-virus and VPNs, previously problematic apps, are becoming native.



We'll see how well it all works when these laptops are released in 2024.
Mayor Brandon Johnsons administration has renewed a controversial contract with the out-of-state company that staffs the citys migrant shelters despite its significant overtime billing, a move his team said was its only option as efforts to replace the costly firm with cheaper, local alternatives have hit snags.

Favorite Healthcare Staffing and the city on Monday signed a $40 million extension through October 2024. Its Johnsons third extension for the firm and empowers the company to continue hiring caseworkers, security guards, janitors and other employees for the roughly two dozen migrant shelters housing thousands of Chicagos asylum-seekers.

The continued reliance on Favorite Staffing, based in suburban Kansas City, comes as another migrant housing plan  Johnsons strategy of establishing winterized base camps for incoming asylum-seekers  is reaching crunchtime. Temperatures are expected to dip below freezing next week but the large heated tents have yet to be erected across the city despite the mayors promises to do so by winter.

As Johnsons team has done repeatedly, deputy chief-of-staff Cristina Pacione-Zayas argued Thursday that the mayor inherited the expensive shelter staffing rates from Mayor Lori Lightfoots administration along with the unprecedented task of absorbing the thousands of new arrivals, for which Chicago has never had the infrastructure.

The $40 million Favorite Staffing renewal is on top of at least $56 million the firm has been paid since September 2022 as migrants began arriving in Chicago, when the firms initial contract on the shelters was inked by Lightfoot. Pacione-Zayas said the Johnson administration has always been concerned about the companys exorbitant bills, but that the city had no choice but to execute stopgap contract extensions until better vendors come along.

If we were to kill the contract, who would staff these spaces? Pacione-Zayas said during a briefing with reporters. We would get slammed and critiqued on that. And so were being responsible while trying to come up with new ways to be responsive and also sensitive to the fact that the city of Chicago is paying for this.

Story continues

A recent Tribune investigation found that the city has paid out extensive volumes of overtime as part of its original deal with Favorite Staffing. A small selection of invoices provided by the city following a Tribune request for all of Favorite Staffings invoices shows hundreds of Favorite Staffing workers logged working 84 hours a week  with a majority of that time being paid at an overtime rate at a 50% premium.

At a Woodlawn shelter in early February, for example, 36 of the 50 Favorite Staffing employees logged working at least 12 hours a day, seven days a week. The citys bill for one week in early February at that shelter was nearly $460,000.

At the Streeterville site one week in March, roughly eight in 10 workers logged working 84 hours. One worker at the Inn of Chicago shelter was logged as pulling five 12-hour shifts, a 14-hour shift and a 16-hour shift during one week in mid-March. For his work alone that week, the city was billed $15,525, invoices showed. Another staffer logged working 12-hour security shifts at least 56 days in a row this winter and spring.

A representative with Favorite Staffing deferred all contract questions to the city. But Keenan Driver, a vice president with the firm, has previously said the company charges fair and market-based prices. On Thursday, Driver said in a statement that the company was looking forward to continuing to work with the City on this important mission.

Since Johnson took office in May, his team has been critical of Favorite Staffings rates, saying the contract was costly to the city and that the city planned to phase it out and bring on local community-based organizations. Those plans have not come to fruition. Instead, his administration has signed multiple renewals of the Favorite Staffing contract; besides this weeks, there were extensions shortly after his inauguration and in July.

Pacione-Zayas said Thursday that doing away with Favorite Staffing is easier said than done, but the administration plans to announce new staffing contracts for some of its 25 shelters in mid-November. Favorite Staffing, though, will continue working at more than half those shelters due to lack of interested bidders and other procurement restraints, she said.

We had to always have Favorite as a backup, Pacione-Zayas said. I think our actions should tell you that this is how we intend on addressing it, and that is by putting Chicagoans to work.

The new contract reflects recently renegotiated rates touted by Johnsons team, a move that was necessitated because the city brought on Favorite Staffing to work at its migrant shelters by piggybacking off a state contract for the COVID-19 pandemic.

The state deal had listed specific positions and hourly rates for emergency health care work to be provided by Favorite Staffing. As the city engaged Favorite Staffing to handle migrant shelters, the city contract simply changed the names of jobs and kept the same pay rates.

So previously, a pandemic healthcare worker  paid $100 an hour by the state  became shelter security. Under the new terms inked in October, a security guards regular hourly rate decreased to $68 an hour. If the guard was a local resident and didnt need a hotel room, the rate would drop to $48 an hour, according to the contract. The renegotiation also requires Favorite Staffing to try to hire any additional workers locally, Johnsons team has said.

The initial prices for Favorite Staffing employees have led several aldermen to criticize the contract and call for the city to audit the invoices. Pacione-Zayas did not address those demands Thursday, saying the focus was keeping the migrant shelter ecosystem afloat.

She also acknowledged it might not be feasible to cut out Favorite Staffing for good.

I think thats whats sort of being evaluated right now as these proposals are being reviewed, she said. Its a matter of once we kind of see what this application process yields, itll let us know what is the potential of being able to fully disengage from Favorite.

As of Thursday, more than 19,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since August 2022, with 11,800 currently staying inside the city-run shelters and another 3,300 staying inside Chicago police stations and at OHare International Airport.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker, meanwhile, shrugged off concerns on Favorite Staffings extensive use of overtime, characterizing it as an expected part of providing services during a crisis and emphasizing that the city ultimately is responsible for the companys shelter work.

Its very hard to have a contract with someone who can, on the spot, in an emergency, be able to deliver the kinds of things that these companies are able to do, and so that is an expensive thing, Pritzker said.

Obviously, everybody should be keeping track of the expenditures that theyre making, he said. But I just want to remind the folks who are paying attention to these contracts that having a long-term, emergency-related contract is an expensive endeavor.

In addition to the citys deal with Favorite Staffing, the Johnson administration also has contracted with GardaWorld Federal Services under a nearly $30 million deal to put up migrant yurt base camps across the city. Johnsons team has weathered flak for that agreement, given the private security firms work in immigration detention, to which the administration has said it will apply robust guardrails to hold the vendor accountable.

But with temperatures expected to drop to the high 20s next week, alarm is growing over the fact that the tent encampments are still not ready. Pacione-Zayas said the city is working with faith organizations to try to keep migrants sleeping outside safe from the cold but we dont have a lot of turnkey solutions here.

We, of course, have some upcoming shelters that are opening. Were trying to move as quickly as possible, Pacione-Zayas said.

Johnsons team recently disclosed that it plans to build one of the base camps on a vacant parking lot at 38th Street and California Avenue  a decision that has attracted outrage from some Brighton Park neighbors and disappointment from Ald. Julia Ramirez, 12th, who has said she was not consulted beforehand.

City workers are currently assessing the viability of the site, which Johnsons team has said remains viable despite its lack of use since 2020 and objections from environmental groups due to the areas past industrial activity.

Pacione-Zayas said she could not provide a date on when the base camp, which would house 2,000 migrants, could open, though pamphlets distributed at a community meeting this week suggested that after the site is approved, outfitting the prefabricated tents with proper equipment would take days.

The assessment is still underway and we do not have results at this time, Pacione-Zayas said.

Pritzker, who previously expressed his preference for bricks-and-mortar shelters over the tent encampments, again said its the citys responsibility to open shelters, with the state playing a supporting role.

Am I disappointed? Pritzker said. Id like everybody to have housing, theres no doubt. Its challenging, especially when, as we know, we dont know when those buses are leaving. We dont know how many are going to arrive on a given day.

ayin@chicagotribune.com

dpetrella@chicagotribune.com

nsalzman@chicagotribune.com
A sign directs voters at John Griffin Middle School for a primary for Fayetteville City Council elections on Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023. The primary for congressional, statewide and the presidential elections are scheduled for March 5, 2024 in North Carolina.

Most of North Carolina's counties are holding municipal or other local elections this fall  with an even bigger slate of contests coming statewide in early 2024, including primaries for U.S. president, governor, U.S. House, General Assembly and county offices.

Remembering if you're registered to vote, or figuring out how to register for the first time, can be confusing so we'll break it down here.

Who can register to vote in North Carolina?

First of all, you might already be registered. Here's a place to check online: vt.ncsbe.gov/reglkup. You can also contact your county board of elections at vt.ncsbe.gov/BOEInfo/.

To be eligible to register to vote in North Carolina, you must meet the following four criteria:

Be a United States citizen.

Live in the county where you are registering at least 30 days before Election Day (some exceptions apply to those on active military duty, their families and other U.S. citizens abroad).

Not be serving a felony sentence including any period of conditional release.

Be at least 16 years old. (Preregistration is allowed for 16- and 17-year-olds. Also, 17-year-olds may vote in a primary election if they will be 18 at the time of the general election.)

Registration deadlines

For 2023 elections:

If you want to vote on the day of the Nov. 7 election this year, the registration deadline has already passed. But unregistered residents can still participate by registering and voting on the same day during early voting, which runs through Nov. 4. That can be done at any early voting site. Proof of current residence will be required using a document such as a driver's license or utility bill.

For 2024 elections:

The deadline is Feb. 9 to vote on the day of the March 5 primaries. (Same-day registration will go on through March 2.)

How to register

Visit your local elections board.

Online or in person at the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV):

Visit your DMV in person or go to payments.ncdot.gov. (There is no cost.)

By mail:

Fill out the appropriate form below and submit it by mail to your county elections board:

English N.C. Voter Registration Application (fillable PDF)

Spanish N.C. Voter Registration Application (fillable PDF)

Note: The federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act allows certain voters an expedited means to register and vote by mail-in ballot.

Bring your ID

Following a ruling from the North Carolina Supreme Court, voters will now need to bring photo identification to vote early or on Election Day. Absentee/mail-in voters will need to send in a scanned copy of an ID. County election boards provide free voter identification for registered voters.

According to state guidelines, these are acceptable IDs (unexpired or expired no more than a year):

N.C. drivers license.

State ID from N.C. DMV

Drivers license or non-driver ID from another state, District of Columbia, or U.S. territory. This only applies to voters registered in North Carolina within 90 days of the election.

U.S. passport or U.S. passport card.

N.C. voter photo ID card issued by a county board of elections.

College or university student ID approved by the N.C. Board of Elections.

State or local government or charter school employee ID approved by the N.C. Board of Elections.

Photo IDs that people can use irrespective of expiration date are:

Military or veterans ID cards issued by the U.S. government.

Tribal enrollment cards issued by a tribe recognized by the state or federal government.

ID cards issued by an agency of the U.S. government or the state of North Carolina for a public assistance program.

There are exceptions for voters unable to show IDs that include religious exemptions, natural disasters and reasonable impediments (as defined by the state). Those unable to show an ID can access an exception form at their county's election board.

Ways to vote in North Carolina

Request a mail-in/absentee ballot:

Any absentee voter can request a mail-in ballot (though mail-in/absentee voting is not allowed in some municipal elections).

The deadline to request an mail-in ballot for the 2023 elections is Oct. 31 at 5 p.m.

For the 2024 primaries, the deadline is Feb. 27. Any registered voter can participate in either party's presidential primary election without being enrolled in that party, but voters can only participate in one primary per election cycle.

Voters can request absentee ballots online at votebymail.ncsbe.gov/app/home or by mailing or hand-delivering a form to their countys election services building. Witnessed and marked ballots must be returned by 5 p.m. on Election Day.

Early voting:

Registered voters can vote early in the 2023 races at a one-stop site through Nov. 4. Unregistered voters can register and vote that same day.

For the 2024 primaries, early voting will run Feb. 15-March 2.

Election day

To participate on Election Day, voters must go to their assigned polling site. Polling sites can be found online at: vt.ncsbe.gov/pplkup/ or by asking at your county's board of elections office. Polls are open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Joel Burgess has lived in WNC for more than 20 years, covering politics, government and other news. He's written award-winning stories on topics ranging from gerrymandering to police use of force. Got a tip? Contact Burgess at jburgess@citizentimes.com, 828-713-1095 or on Twitter @AVLreporter. Please help support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times.

This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: Vote NC: How to check voter registration, voting options, what to know
Republican Iowa Rep Mariannette Miller-Meeks revealed in a lengthy statement that she received credible death threats and a barrage of threatening calls after refusing to back Rep Jim Jordan for speaker.

Mr Jordan backtracked on a pause on his speakership bid on Thursday (19 October), announcing in the afternoon that the members of the House GOP had rejected a temporary solution to empower interim speaker Patrick McHenry until January.

We made the pitch to members on the resolution as a way to lower the temperature and get back to work. We decided that wasnt where were gonna go. Im still running for speaker and I plan to go the floor and get the votes and win this race, he said, according to the Washington Examiner.

According to Punchbowl News, Majority Whip Tom Emmer said: As I have made very clear over the last few days, we should never allow a Democrat-backed coalition government. Ever. The only coalition we should be looking to build is a Republican coalition uniting all of our conference.

Republicans coming out of the three-and-a-half-hour conference meeting, which grew emotional at times, said they expected a vote to take place soon but that they wanted to give Mr Jordan more time to speak to the holdouts, CNN reported.

Twenty-two Republicans voted against Mr Jordan on the second ballot  up from 20 on the first. Four members joined the anti-Jordan coalition, while two who voted against him in the first vote went back into the fold to support him.

Some Republicans, led by Rep David Joyce of Ohio, had previously discussed potentially giving Mr McHenry more power so the House could resume deliberation to pass spending bills to avert a government shutdown.

Mr Jordans backing of the resolution to empower Mr McHenry prompted an angry reaction from some in the GOP conference. The resolution would likely need at least some backing from across the aisle.

Rep Don Bacon of Nebraska, another GOP member who didnt vote for Mr Jordan, told Politico that his wife received texts and emails, urging her to convince her husband to back Mr Jordan.

Ms Miller-Meeks voted for Mr Jordan on the first ballot but chose to back Rep Kay Granger of Texas on the second vote on Wednesday.

After one round of votes, with my support, he was not able to secure enough votes for the Speaker nomination and my initial concerns about threatening tactics of Jim Jordans supporters, including from members of Congress, increased despite assurances, she said.

Since my vote in support of Chairwoman Granger, I have received credible death threats and a barrage of threatening calls. The proper authorities have been notified and my office is cooperating fully, she added. One thing I cannot stomach, or support is a bully.

I understand that voting against Rep Jordan is not popular at this time. I respected Jim enough to vote for him, knowing he did not have the votes to be elected, Ms Miller-Meeks said.

Meanwhile, Mr Bacon told Politico that his wife received a number of anonymous emails and texts from people pushing the message that the Nebraska representative would lose his seat unless he backed Mr Jordan.

He has more courage than you. You wont put your name to your statements, Mr Bacons wife responded, according to the screenshots shared by Politico.

The tactics of Mr Jordans allies are considered to have backfired after he lost further support on the second ballot. The pressure campaign often included not-so-veiled threats of primary challenges from the right.

Jims been nice, one-on-one, but his broader team has been playing hardball, Mr Bacon told Politico on Tuesday.

Mr Jordan doesnt appear to have been directly involved in the strategy employed by his allies and supporters.

Another GOP holdout, Rep Steve Womack of Arkansas, said that his office has been inundated with profane calls, but no real substantive threats, according to CNN.

On Wednesday, Mr Jordan shared his disdain for the death threats.

It should never happen, he said. Its just wrong, and we dont want it to happen to anyone, any American, anybody, any member of Congress. Its just wrong.

Earlier, Mr Jordan wrote on X that no American should accost another for their beliefs  Stop. Its abhorrent.

Mr Womack said, Frankly, just based on what Ive been through  I can only speak to myself and what my staff has been through over the last 24 or 48 hours  it is obvious what the strategy has been: Attack, attack, attack. Attack the members who dont agree with you, attack them, beat them into submission.

Rep Drew Ferguson also revealed on Thursday that he had been the subject of death threats.

As the Republican Conference designee, I supported Congressman Jordan on the first ballot. Following the first vote, I had genuine concerns about the threatening tactics and pressure campaigns Jordan and his allies were using to leverage members for their votes, he said in a statement.

I discussed this directly with Jim, and planned to support him on the second ballot. When the pressure campaigns and attacks on fellow members ramped up, it became clear to me that the House Republican Conference does not need a bully as the Speaker. I cast my vote for Majority Leader Steve Scalise, a principled conservative and unifying leader, he added. Shortly after casting that vote, my family and I started receiving death threats. That is simply unacceptable, unforgivable, and will never be tolerated.

A GOP source later told Axios that Mr Ferguson told the conference that hes had to have a sheriff stationed at his daughters school over death threats from the far right. Also one at his house.
A rescued dog, once emaciated, now can call a tiny home on a 5-acre piece of Florida land his own.

Richard, a 5 or 6-year-old American bulldog, was adopted in 2021 by Paige Graham, who set up her own rescue, after getting a call that he was scheduled to be euthanized in Miami-Dade County, Graham told McClatchy News in a phone interview.

I was able to pull him from animal services and take him back to my farm, Graham said. At that point I just had the farm and hadnt built the tiny house village.

Richard, a dog who should be over 100 pounds, was rescued at 44 pounds, and Graham believes he was once a bait dog involved in dog fighting.

I knew he had been starved by his previous owners. A lot of times with dog fight rings when they find a dog thats too docile, too sweet, theyll use the dog as a bait dog and starve it first so its too weak to hurt the bigger dogs, she said. Its like a practice dog.

She took the big boy back home to the Tampa Bay area and took him to a routine vet visit, where they found that he had a bunch of rocks and pieces of metal in his system because he was starving and eating anything he could get his hands on, Graham said.

Thats when Richard got his first surgery to cut out a portion of his intestines that had died off because they were clogged, Graham said.

Two weeks later, Richard needed another surgery after his bowels were clogged again.

Thats when the vet told me you either have to get him euthanized or you have to put him somewhere where he cant get to anything, Graham said.

Graham learned Richard was suffering from pica, a condition that results in swallowing non-food items.

Richards pica, which Graham believes is a psychological response to having been starved, was so severe that he ate through the drywall when she was showering because he has such severe separation anxiety.

But Graham said she wasnt going to give up on him as he still had so much life in him.

Richard, described as happy and a dog who just wanted to be loved, eventually was given his own tiny house, a way for him to not have access to chewable non-food items, Graham said.

I have 30 animals on my farm and I thought If I make Richard a tiny house, I can do it for all my animals, Graham said.

With the help of Grahams boyfriend, three storage units were transformed into tiny houses for Grahams village, she said. Theres a chihuahua house, a cat house and a palace for Grahams chickens, she said.

Richard lives in his man cave, she said.

Richard spends the night in his house or in my bed but if Im outside, which I am most of the time because I work from home, hell be running around, Graham said.

Graham prides herself in her slogan, adopt the weird ones, she said.

I just want people to consider adopting the less adoptable animals. Theres perfectly good animals sitting in shelters for years that get euthanized because they dont look a certain way, Graham said. They shouldnt get overlooked.

Police dog with terminal cancer gets final salute. See incredibly emotional tribute

Baby sloth found crying on floor in Costa Rica reunited with mom. See special moment

Faint cry led rescuers to newborn sloth with umbilical cord still attached. See baby
Former U.S. representative and mass shooting survivor Gabrielle Giffords took to social media to express her dismay at a shooting massacre that reportedly killed 22 on Wednesday evening in Lewiston, Maine. "At least 22 people were killed and more than 50 people injured because of a senseless act of gun violence. It doesnt have to be this way and it shouldnt be this way. Entire communities shouldnt have to live in fear of an active shooting," Giffords wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Giffords posted about the shooting at 8:07 p.m., following up with posts on X and Facebook."My heart breaks for the Lewiston community, the victims, and the survivors. Earlier this week, I visited Uvalde and met with the families and survivors of that mass shooting. Im angry that yet another community has to experience this pain. Our leaders must act," Giffords wrote on social media.

A person of interest in the shooting has been identified as Robert Card, who trained as a firearms instructor at a U.S. Army Reserve facility in the state, according to a document reviewed by the Associated Press. Card had made shooting threats at a military base and was committed to a mental health facility for two weeks this past summer, according to the AP.

This handout image released on October 25, 2023 by the Androscoggin County Sheriff's Office via Facebook shows the armed suspect in a shooting as law enforcement in Androscoggin County investigate "two active shooter events" in Lewiston, Maine. At least 10 people were killed and dozens injured in shootings in the city of Lewiston, Maine October 25, 2023 night, US media reported, with police saying that the gunman was still at large. The death toll was reported to be as high as 16 by CNN and the Wall Street Journal, in the shooting spree that took place at a bowling alley and also at least one other location, a local restaurant and bar, according to media.

No arrest was made in the shooting as of 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Giffords served Arizona's 8th district as a Democrat for three terms, having been first elected in 2007. She was shot in the head on Jan. 8, 2011, during a gathering with constituents at a commercial parking lot in Tucson. The shooting resulted in six deaths and another 12 people injured.

Jared Lee Loughner was convicted in the Tucson shooting.

Giffords has since become a champion of gun control. Her husband, Mark Kelly, is the junior U.S. senator from Arizona.

Gabrielle Giffords shooting: A fatal chain of events unfolds

.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Gabrielle Giffords reacts to shooting massacre in Maine
Robert Fico and his cabinet were appointed by President Zuzana Caputova on Wednesday. His party won 42 seats in the 150-seat Parliament and formed a coalition with the centre-left HLAS and nationalist SNS parties.

Fico formed a parliamentary majority by signing a coalition government deal with the Hlas, or Voice, party and the Slovak National Party.

Fico pledged in his election campaign to end military support for Ukraine and criticised sanctions on Russia.

Newly appointed Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico signs the oath during a swear in ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Bratislava, Slovakia - AP Photo

On the streets of Bratislava, one man told Euronews he supported this policy.

"We have no money after a war in Ukraine and after COVID-19 but maybe we will have a more stable government and maybe less anger I hope so," he said.

Another man said he was less hopeful of his country's future: "What we expect economically from the upcoming years is nothing good, so hopefully it won't be as bad as it seems at the moment.

"Demographically speaking, hopefully, not too many young, educated people will leave this country and hopefully, there will be no backlash in terms of human rights, as well."

Fico stepped down as prime minister in 2018 amid mass protests against corruption after journalist Jan Kuciak and his partner Martina Kusnirova were murdered.

Kuciak was targeted for investigating ties between government officials and criminal groups.

This time, Fico campaigned heavily on pledges to end Slovak official military aid to Ukraine, to make foreign policy independent of EU partners and Washington, and to stop migrants seeking to make it to Western Europe.

Bratislava has provided Ukraine with extensive humanitarian and military assistance under previous governments, including artillery and fighter jets.

Fico has also spoken out against political liberalism, the activities of non-governmental organisations, and more rights for transgender people.

He has praised neighbouring Hungary's leader Viktor Orban as a politician for defending his country's interests and could make alliances with him where their interests align.

Even though he has railed against Brussels and the US, Fico has repeatedly said that he has no intention of removing Slovakia from the European Union or the NATO military alliance.
Nashville Police Chief John Drake said he was heartbroken and saddened following the news of his estranged sons death after a manhunt for allegedly shooting two police officers from a nearby city.

John C Drake Jr, 38, was accused of shooting two La Vergne police officers on 21 October. He was added to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations (TBI) Most Wanted List as a manhunt for the police chiefs son was underway. He was wanted for two counts of attempted murder.

The search for Drake Jr came to an unexpected conclusion late Tuesday, when the TBI announced he was found dead from what appears to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The agency will lead the investigation into his death and a full autopsy will be performed, TBI wrote.

I am grateful to the members of law enforcement, including many officers from this department, who worked diligently since Saturday to locate my son and bring him into custody, Chief John Drake said in a statement.

Chief Drake has issued this statement concerning Tuesday night's death of his son, John Drake, Jr., age 38. pic.twitter.com/9hx4RM3f8z  Metro Nashville PD (@MNPDNashville) October 25, 2023

It was my prayer that no harm would come to him or anyone else. I am heartbroken and saddened by the outcome, he added. I appreciate the condolences and kind words of support as my family and I privately mourn our loss.

The two officers allegedly struck by Drake Jr have been treated and are at home, the La Vergne Police Chief said on Tuesday.

Drake Jr had reportedly fled the scene of the shooting in a stolen car. A manhunt ensued, including a reward of $2,500 for information leading to his arrest.

Chief Drake said over the weekend that he was shocked and deeply saddened to learn that my estranged sonis the suspect in this afternoons shooting. He added that the pair had maintained minimal contact over the years.
Republican presidential candidate Tim Scott 's multiday bus tour this week signaled a new campaign strategy: to step up his ground game in the Hawkeye State.

But only time will tell whether the effort will pay off with Iowa caucusgoers.

Scott, who has not qualified to appear on the Nov. 8 GOP presidential debate stage in Miami, has seen his national campaign sputter. His polling has remained in the single digits amid mounting pressure to differentiate himself from frontrunner former President Donald Trump and other candidates.

More recently, his allied super PAC recently announced it would cancel most of the remaining $40 million in fall TV ad spending it had reserved on Scotts behalf ahead of the caucuses.

In an attempt to regain footing, Scott's team this week announced an aggressive campaign shift to Iowa with plans to double staff, establish a West Des Moines headquarters and campaign weekly in the first-in-the-nation state after the November presidential debate.

Scott's revival trip came in the form of a five-day "Good News Bus Tour," which included seven stops across the state, starting with Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks Triple MMM Tailgate fundraiser Friday. On Saturday, he held a meet-and-greet in Maquoketa and joined Sen. Chuck Grassley for more tailgating outside a University of Northern Iowa football game.

Republican presidential candidate Sen. Tim Scott speaks during a campaign stop Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, at the City Limits Restaurant in Maquoketa.

At the City Limits restaurant in Maquoketa, Scott focused heavily on the recent outbreak of war between Israel and Hamas, and the need for America to support Israel. Echoing criticisms he's made since Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks against Israel, he criticized the Biden administration's response and said a funding bill proposed by the president should be rejected for including more military aid for Ukraine than for Israel.

In addition to foreign policy, attendees also had questions about the federal budget, drug prices and other domestic issues. Afterward, Maquoketa residents Jo Martin, 79, and her husband, Ray, 81, said they were impressed by Scott's talk but were still leaning toward supporting Trump in the caucus.

"How can one person do what Trump did, kept everything up and running, and as soon as someone else takes over, everything goes downhill?" Ray Martin asked.

Their only reservation about Trump was a concern about his electability.

"There's so many people who believe everything they hear against him, and don't want him to be president," Jo Martin said.

Scott, or any of the other Republicans seeking to wrest the nomination from Trump, will need to win over at least some of his supporters. But asked what it would take to shift their preference from Trump to Scott, the Martins couldn't say.

More: Sputtering nationally, Tim Scott shifts resources to go 'all in' on Iowa Caucuses

Similar sentiments were felt the following week as Scott continued his bus tour Monday night at a town hall in Marshalltown, and Tuesday with meet and greet stops in Indianola and Creston, and at a forum hosted by the American Free Enterprise Chamber of Commerce in Griswold.

After the Marshalltown event, several voters said they were still "up in the air" and liked what they heard from Scott  but they struggled to say what it would take to make him their top pick in the caucus.

"I think he's shown who he is as a senator. He does what he says he does," said Cindy Page, a 67-year-old Republican who drove from Cedar Falls with a friend to hear Scott speak. "I think he just needs to be who he is."

Sen. Tim Scott greets Barbara Grassley and her husband, Sen. Chuck Grassley, with flowers before tailgating outside the University of Northern Iowa football game Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, in Cedar Falls. Barbara Grassley was celebrating her 91st birthday.

Larry Madson, calls Scott a "common sense" candidate and a person "you'd like to have sitting in your living room."

"He's not putting on a show, he's just Tim Scott, and that's what I really enjoy hearing," he said after listening to Scott speak in Griswold.

Madson, who drove nearly an hour from Harlan to see Scott, lists him among his top three picks, alongside former North Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. He said in order for Scott to rise to the top is an issue of "visibility."

"In my mind, oftentimes, a lot of people vote based on what they see and what they hear and so I think the visibility is a major factor," Madson said. "So it's probably just being able to, you know, meet the public, and let people hear his message."

Tim Scott faces pressure to differentiate himself from Trump, opponents

Although Scott has been loath to talk about other Republican candidates, he's facing increasing pressure to differentiate himself from other candidates, and in particular frontrunner Trump.

According to an August Des Moines Register/NBC News Iowa Poll, Scott had a higher net favorability rating than any other candidate in the field, with 59% of likely Republican caucusgoers saying they had a favorable view of him. Another 17% said they had an unfavorable view.

That poll showed him in third place with 9% of the vote.

But a Real Clear Politics rolling average of more recent Iowa polling shows him in fifth place with 6%  behind Trump (50%), DeSantis (17%), Haley (9.5%), and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy (6%).

Still, thats better than Scott is doing nationally, where he is the first-choice candidate among just 2%.

At Monday's town hall, he was asked why voters should turn against Trump and made an unusually explicit electability argument against the former candidate.

"I don't think he can win," Scott said. "You have to be able to win in Georgia. I don't think he can win in Georgia. You have to be able to win in Pennsylvania."

The problem, Scott said, is not Trump's policies, which he supported, but how he is viewed by persuadable voters.

"We have to be able to win independents without watering down our message," he said. "We have to have a consistently conservative message and a messenger who can persuade.  Not only can I keep conservatives excited and motivated, I can attract independents. If you are a conservative in your philosophy, I want you to be a part of the team, and if you're not a conservative in philosophy, you don't want me anyways."

Republican presidential candidate Tim Scott listens to a question from an audience member at a meet and greet event in Creston, Iowa on Oct. 24, 2023.

Creston resident Tim Haynie, who saw Scott speak for the third time on Tuesday at a Pizza Ranch in Creston, said Scott is his "favorite candidate." But in terms of electability, Haynie ranks Trump and DeSantis over Scott.

Haynie, a member of the Union County Central Committee, says he's not sure what would have to change to solidify his vote for Scott over the other two candidates, but he said his mind changes daily.

"It's tough on me because if any one of those three wins the primary, they're electable," Haynie said. "It's not a matter of electability on the national level if they're on the general election ticket."

Haynie considers himself a Trump fan, but he said if Scott starts to poll better, he could "envision" himself caucusing for Scott. Haynie said it's a matter of Scott gaining a "momentum swing," and lauded his efforts to campaign in rural Iowa.

"He's a godly man and he speaks the truth, I just love that guy," Haynie said of Scott. "I would love for him to be our primary choice, but I don't know if he can be. I'm confident Trump will be our candidate, and I'm OK with that and he's been number one for me."

Tim Scott plans to be in Iowa weekly after Nov. 8

Scott says he plans to campaign in Iowa every week until the Jan. 15 caucuses following the debate in November. According to his campaign, Scott hopes to use the shift in resources to help tap into the support of evangelical Christians, who make up a sizeable share of the Iowa caucusgoing electorate, to help close the gap.

Scott hasn't been shy about his campaign pivot.

"I believe everything starts in Iowa," he told the Marshalltown audience. "I've moved my whole operations here."

He also touched on his Iowa-first gameplan at the Pizza Ranch in Creston, attempting to flatter the roughly 20 audience members.

"The road to the White House starts here. It doesn't start anywhere else," Scott said. "The picture I have in November of 2024 is having not only won the nomination but won the presidency. In order to make that happen, you gotta do it here."

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: Tim Scott's 'all in' strategy will win over Iowa voters is tough sell
Donald Trump congratulated Rep Mike Johnson (R-LA) after he became the fourth Republican nominee for speaker in three weeks, following the ouster of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA).

Mr Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday morning, a day after he helped end the speakership bid of Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) after just a few hours following his nomination earlier on Tuesday.

Congratulations to Congressional Republicans! Yesterday was a big and very important day. It gave us a quick and easy way forward with 5 candidates who are beyond reproach, and represent the absolute best there is in the Republican Party, Mr Trump wrote.

Even the Fake News Media is impressed with what took place yesterday and, more importantly, with the Candidates themselves. Congratulations to Reps. Byron Donalds (Florida), Charles J. Chuck Fleischmann (Tennessee), Mark Green (Tennessee), & Roger Williams (Texas), & the ultimate winner of yesterdays vote, by a significant margin, Mike Johnson (Louisiana), he added.

I am not going to make an Endorsement in this race, because I COULD NEVER GO AGAINST ANY OF THESE FINE AND VERY TALENTED MEN, all of whom have supported me, in both mind and spirit, from the very beginning of our GREAT 2016 Victory. In 2024, we will have an even bigger, & more important, WIN! My strong SUGGESTION is to go with the leading candidate, Mike Johnson, & GET IT DONE, FAST! LOVE, DJT the former president concluded.

This comes after Mr Trump bragged about helping to quash Mr Emmers speakership bid, which ended after just four hours on Tuesday.

Mr Trump shared a link to a Politico article with the headline I killed him: How Trump torpedoed Tom Emmers speaker bid.

Hes done. Its over. I killed him, Mr Trump told an ally on Tuesday, according to the outlet.

Mr Trump slammed Mr Emmer on Truth Social earlier on Tuesday.

I have many wonderful friends wanting to be Speaker of the House, and some are truly great Warriors. RINO Tom Emmer, who I do not know well, is not one of them. He never respected the Power of a Trump Endorsement, or the breadth and scope of MAGAMAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

I believe he has now learned his lesson, because he is saying that he is Pro-Trump all the way, but who can ever be sure? Has he only changed because thats what it takes to win? The Republican Party cannot take that chance, because thats not where the America First Voters are. Voting for a Globalist RINO like Tom Emmer would be a tragic mistake!

The vote on the House floor on the speakership of the fourth Republican nominee for the top job in the lower chamber is expected at noon on Wednesday.

After three weeks of infighting, backstabbing, and chaotic wrangling, Republicans appear more unified behind Mr Johnson than behind any of those that came before him  including Reps Steve Scalise (R-LA), Jim Jordan (R-OH), and Tom Emmer (R-MN)  but nothing is certain in this Republican Party.

The House GOP has churned through 14 candidates, and now four nominees  including Mr Johnson  in 22 days since the ouster of then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) on 3 October.

Late on Tuesday night, Mr Johnson crossed the threshold needed within the Republican conference when he received 128 votes in an internal ballot  far from the 217 votes he needs in a chamber with 433 out of 435 seats currently filled.
Diplomats have been busy ironing out a joint position by the 27-country bloc on the Gaza conflict, including a potential call for a humanitarian pause to facilitate the flow of aid, in preparation for the summit.

But leaders stressed the need to maintain attention on the other war on Europes doorstep, warning that distraction from Ukraine would play into the hands of the Kremlin.

This should not take our attention away from Ukraine, this is exactly what Putin wants, European President Roberta Metsola warned as she arrived for the meeting.

"It's key for us to make very clear that we support Ukraine for as long as it takes," European Council President Charles Michel said.

Lithuania's Gitanas Nauseda and Estonia's Kaja Kallas , both staunch advocates of EU support to Ukraine, also said keeping the attention on support to Ukraine is critical.

Europe has no right for war fatigue," Nauseda said. My message today is to keep supporting Ukraine, despite the fact that we have another hot spot, he added, saying that it was important for the EU not to split its foreign policy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dialled into the start of the meeting by videolink, as has been the tradition since the start of Russia's aggression. During the evening, leaders are expected to discuss a 50-billion envelope in financial support to Ukraine, proposed by the Commission as part of a top-up to its long-term budget, as well as ways of seizing frozen Russian assets to finance Ukraine's recovery.

EU unity on Ukraine falters

The EUs diplomatic front in support of Ukraine has recently shown signs of unravelling, with Hungarian President Viktor Orban seen cosying up to Russian President Vladimir Putin during a recent visit to China. On Thursday, Hungarys foreign minister Peter Szijjarto attended a security conference in Belarus, a close ally of Russia.

Responding to Orban and Putins encounter, Lithuania's Nauseda said it is "more than strange to see that we start to flirt with a regime which is committing very cruel atrocities on the territory of Ukraine."

The newest of the blocs 27 heads of state Robert Fico - sworn in as Slovakia's Prime Minister just in time for the EU summit on Wednesday - announced hours ahead of the summit he would halt his countrys military aid to Ukraine, following up on promises made during his electoral campaign. Fico leads a coalition government that includes a pro-Russian far-right party.

EU leaders are gearing up to avoid a watering down of EU support to Ukraine amidst fears of Orban and Fico-led vetoes.

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola told reporters after addressing leaders that she "had to believe" there would be continued unity among EU leaders, despite signs of fragmentation.

"I continue to hope that the unanimity that was found in the past can still be found," Metsola said, adding that she was in discussions with countries risking to take a "different path."

The latest draft conclusions of the summit seen by Euronews include no less than fourteen paragraphs on Russias invasion of Ukraine, which include a call for continued and accelerated military support to Ukraine.

Military support is seen as critical to prop up Ukraine's military forces, which have received unprecedented levels of support from European and Western governments since the start of the war, including ammunition, weapons, tanks and fighter planes.

But the EU appears on track to miss its pledge, made in late March, to deliver one million rounds of ammunition in 12 months, with just one-third of the target delivered in the past six months.

Leaders to discuss financial support and frozen assets

The 50 billion pot of financial support to Ukraine under discussion on Thursday needs the unanimous blessing of all 27 leaders to be released, but is currently being blocked by Hungary.

The funds would be part of a broader revision of the EU's long-term budget, amounting to around 100 billion in grants and loans.

Lithuania's Nauseda said 50 billion in financial support to Ukraine is insufficient and that the bloc needs to find a more permanent means of financing the war-torn country.

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas said she would press on leaders to find a path forward to rubber stamp the funds, and said she was hopeful that Hungarian opposition was simple posturing.

He (Orban) has been quite critical of support to Ukraine, but he has been part of it. So I hope that Hungary continues to be part of it," Kallas said, adding she would also encourage leaders to seek an agreement on the seizure of Russian assets.

The EU is currently looking into the feasibility of using proceeds from immobilised Russian assets to help rebuild Ukraine and to compensate victims for the losses suffered at the hands of Russia. But the use of immobilised assets is a minefield for Western countries given legal and economic complications.
(Bloomberg) -- Chinese coal prices are falling as winter nears, offering relief to power plants that buy the fuel and reducing the chances of another round of debilitating power crunches.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Record domestic production and imports, and an increasing contribution from renewables, have put the country in a much better place to weather rising consumption during the peak demand period for heating. Persistently strong coal inventories and a recovery in hydropower generation have helped eliminate the key factors behind last years crippling surge in prices.

Ample supply of Chinas mainstay fuel is good news for industry as the economy improves after months of poor performance. Electricity generators are also benefiting from weaker prices. Huaneng Power International Co., Chinas second-largest supplier, reversed last years loss to post its best-ever third quarter profit as margins improved, according to its earnings report this week. By contrast, coal mining profits are declining.

Power plants have now largely completed replenishing stockpiles ahead of winter and benchmark prices have dropped below 1,000 yuan a ton, according to the China Coal Transport and Distribution Association. The downtrend could last for another month.

Theres no pressure to buy more until the weather gets colder, likely in late November, Miao Najue, an analyst at the association, told a briefing on Wednesday. Thats likely to curb imports in the final two months of the year as well, he said.

Meanwhile, water levels at the Three Gorges Dam, the worlds largest hydro project, are at their highest level as the rainy season in the south feeds the mighty Yangtze River, said Miao.

Story continues

The China Electricity Council foresees a generally balanced power market in the winter, with periodic shortages met by power transfers across regions, according to a report on Wednesday.

The Weeks Diary

(All times Beijing unless noted.)

Thursday, Oct. 26:

China Intl Nickel and Cobalt Industry conference in Shanghai, day 3

EARNINGS BRIEFINGS: Tongwei (14:00), China Oilfield (17:30)

EARNINGS: Sinopec, China Oilfield, Tianqi Lithium, Metallurgical Corp., Goldwind

Friday, Oct. 27:

China industrial profits for September, 09:30

China weekly iron ore port stockpiles

Shanghai exchange weekly commodities inventory, ~15:30

EARNINGS BRIEFINGS: Sinopec (09:00), Metallurgical Corp. (14:00), China Coal (15:30)

EARNINGS: Shenhua, Jiangxi Copper, Zijin Mining, Tongling Metals, CMOC, Anhui Conch, Gotion, Sungrow, Trina Solar, Hoshine Silicon

Saturday, Oct. 28

Nothing major scheduled

Sunday, Oct. 29

EARNINGS: Jiangsu Shagang, Three Gorges

On the Wire

South Korean companies are rushing to buy more graphite from China before export controls on electric vehicle battery ingredient take effect in December.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang told his Russian counterpart that he wants to boost their trade and other cooperation, underscoring the nations close ties with the war in Ukraine well into its second year.

President Joe Biden and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are ramping up cooperation on critical minerals and infrastructure initiatives, part of a strategy aimed at countering Chinese military and economic influence in the Indo-Pacific.

The Chinese government is preparing to publish a roadmap to cut emissions of methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, before the COP28 summit that starts in November.

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Capt. Bob Peel, left, and Lt. Col. Tony Adamo, right, F-16 instructor pilots from the 162nd Fighter Wing, fly over the Grand Canyon while supporting Operation Noble Eagles air sovereignty alert mission.

Ukrainian fighter pilots began training on F-16s in the United States this week, a U.S. Air Force spokesperson has confirmed to The War Zone. This kicks off the process of getting these aircraft into Ukrainian Air Force hands, after a long campaign to secure them and then develop a path to train aircrew and maintainers.

The 162nd Wing, Arizona Air National Guard, began training a small number of Ukrainian pilots this week in F-16 fundamentals, the Air Force spokesperson said. The training curriculum will align with the foundational knowledge and skills of each pilot and is expected to last several months. This follows President Biden and Secretary Austins decision to train Ukrainian pilots on F-16s as part of the United States contribution to Ukraine.

The training is taking place at Morris Air National Guard Base in Tucson, Arizona, facilitated by the 162nd Wing. The launch of this part of the syllabus indicates that at least the first cadre of pilots have now completed language training, which was undertaken at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.

Back in August, Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagons top spokesman, told reporters, including from The War Zone , that the training will involve several pilots and dozens of maintainers.

Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder addresses members of the press during a press conference at the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. U.S. Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jack Sanders

As we have reported before , training for Ukrainians in language and operational skills was previously launched in the United Kingdom and Denmark, with many other countries pledging to take part as well.

In August, the general in charge of U.S. and NATO air operations said it would take until next year before Ukrainian pilots take to the air in F-16s and that it would take much longer still  not before 2027  for them to become fully combat proficient in sufficient numbers.

You can get proficient on some weapons systems fairly quickly, said U.S. Air Force Gen. James Hecker, head of U.S. Air Forces in Europe (USAFE), as well as NATOs Allied Air Command and U.S. Air Forces Africa (AFAFRICA).

Gen. James B. Hecker, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander, during a visit to Incirlik Air Base leaders at Incirlik AB, Turkey, in August 2022. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Matthew Angulo

It takes a while to build a couple of squadrons of F-16s and to get their readiness high enough and their proficiency high enough. This could be four or five years down the road, Hecker added.

Still, for the Ukrainian Air Force  which is still going into battle in dwindling numbers of Cold War-era, Soviet-made Su-27 Flankers and MiG-29 Fulcrums  the latest milestone is an important one that continues the countdown to them getting their hands on the long-awaited F-16s.

https://www.twitter.com/KpsZSU/status/1717099764234277094?s=20

Before getting into the rest of the latest news from Ukraine, The War Zone readers can get caught up with our previous rolling coverage here .

The Latest

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has promised that his countrys forces will strike back against Russia should Moscow launch a winter campaign aimed at knocking out Ukraines power grid.

Zelensky said that Russias expected ramping up of airstrikes this winter will not find Ukraine only on the defensive.

Were preparing for the terrorists to strike energy infrastructure, Zelensky wrote on the Telegram messaging app. This year we will not only defend ourselves, but we will also respond.

https://www.twitter.com/ukraine_world/status/1717112451475386400?s=20

Zelensky did not say what kind of response Ukraine might provide to the Russian airstrikes, but the country has more long-range weapons at its disposal than it did this time last year.

Long-range drones as well as locally launched short-range drones and sabotage teams have been used to attack increasingly high-profile Russian targets deep outside of Ukraines borders, even reaching as far as Moscow . Meanwhile, Storm Shadow and SCALP-EG air-launched cruise missiles and Army Tactical Missile System ( ATACMS ) short-range ballistic missiles are available to hit targets in Russian-occupied Ukraine, including Crimea. Something of a wild card is the land-attack version of the Ukrainian-made Neptune anti-ship cruise missile , which has already been used against Crimea but could also be used to attack targets within Russias own borders.

A Ukrainian defense official told The War Zone in August that Kyiv has modified Neptune anti-ship missiles to strike ground targets. Ukrainian Ministry of Defense

Evidence of a new round of Ukrainian ATACMS strikes has already emerged today. Pictures in the Tweet below show what look to be parts of two separate MGM-140 missiles that were fired at Russian forces in the town of Bilorichenskyi in the country's eastern Luhansk region.

https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1717280105666330807?s=20

As we have discussed before , Ukraine is already preparing for an even fiercer Russian drone offensive than that which was launched against its cities and infrastructure last year. The Russian drone attacks, which make particularly heavy use of Iranian-designed Shahed-series drones , have already stepped up considerably in recent weeks, Ukrainian officials say.

According to Yuriy Ihnat, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, attacks by Russian kamikaze drones are expected to reach a record number this winter.

Russias targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure last winter left millions of Ukrainians without power. Repairs to the energy infrastructure were still ongoing as of this month, and grid operators have been imposing regular rolling power cuts and rationing of hot water.

Fragments of an Iranian-designed Shahed-136 drone (named Geran-2 in Russia), displayed as a symbol of war in the center of Kyiv. Photo by Aleksandr Gusev/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

For Russia, energy infrastructure is considered a legitimate target, although its clearly aimed at demoralizing the Ukrainian public.

Last winter, Ukraine had little answer to Russias regular long-range strikes using strategic bombers and warships, but this time around, it seems that Kyiv is preparing to hit back in new and different ways. Ukrainian forces have already demonstrated their ability to strike deep inside Russian territory, including against targets in the capital Moscow and at a number of airfields, using increasingly more capable long-range kamikaze drones . Sabotage teams inside Russia have carried out attacks, as well, including using short-range drones .

The eastern Ukrainian city of Avdiivka , where Russia launched a major new offensive earlier this month, remains a focal point of the fighting. As of yesterday, it was reported that Russian forces were continuing to launch concerted attacks on the city, although the situation has changed in the last 48 hours, with airstrikes now being used in preference to ground advances.

https://twitter.com/tatarigami_ua/status/1716851673090441415?s=12

According to Ukrainian officials, the change in tactics in favor of airpower has been driven by heavy Russian losses in the Donetsk region.

In its latest assessment of the situation on the ground, the U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War (ISW) notes that Ukrainian forces continued counteroffensive operations in eastern and southern Ukraine on October 24 and advanced south of Bakhmut and in western Zaporizhia oblast.

https://www.twitter.com/TheStudyofWar/status/1716960304049934625?s=20

The ISW notes that Russian forces continued their offensive operations near Avdiivka yesterday and also made confirmed advances northeast of the city.

Meanwhile, in the Kherson region, in southern Ukraine, there are continued reports that Ukrainian forces are carrying out small-scale raids on the eastern, Russian-held side of the Dnipro River. The area surrounding the lower reaches of the river has seen heavy fighting, apparently as part of a new Ukrainian offensive.

https://twitter.com/front_ukrainian/status/1717098964766364024

According to the ISW: Russian sources claimed that Ukrainian forces maintain some positions in Krynky  30 kilometers [18.6 miles] east of Kherson City and two kilometers [1.2 miles] from the Dnipro river  and continued limited attacks on the east (left) bank of the Dnipro River.

The situation around the Dnipro River is also discussed in the latest intelligence update from the U.K.s Ministry of Defense. This report notes Russias continued capability to strike targets near the river with artillery.

As in most sectors, a decisive factor is almost certainly the combatants ability to bring accurate, intense artillery fire to bear. Initial indication suggests that Russia has maintained a significant artillery capability within range of the river, the U.K.s Ministry of Defense stated.

https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1717086858616709426

The ministry adds that Russia has been left more vulnerable to attacks in the area since it withdrew its forces from the city of Kherson and retreated to the eastern bank of the Dnipro River, almost a year ago.

More news from Kherson now, with a report from Reuters that one person was killed in an early morning air attack on the region, reflecting the continued Russian attacks there, including shelling from across the Dnipro River.

At about 7:20 a.m., the enemy dropped a guided aerial bomb on a residential area of the city [of Beryslav]. It hit a house. Unfortunately, a 42-year-old man was fatally wounded, local governor Oleksandr Prokudin wrote on Telegram.

https://twitter.com/Lyla_lilas/status/1717194572973920489

According to Prokudin, Russian forces carried out 35 aerial attacks on the Kherson region over the past 24 hours.

The scale of the bombardment led local authorities this week to call for the mandatory evacuation of families with children from three districts in the Kherson region.

https://www.twitter.com/Flash_news_ua/status/1717061894480036114?s=20

There have been more attacks in the Kharkiv region of eastern Ukraine. Two civilians were killed in an artillery strike on a village near Kupyansk, according to Kharkivs regional governor, Oleh Synehub. There reportedly has been particularly heavy fighting around Kupyansk, a town that was seized by Russia after the full-scale invasion but which was recaptured by Ukraine last year.

https://twitter.com/EmekaGift100/status/1717215766506844461

Also in the east, the city of Bakhmut, which fell to Russian forces after one of the longest and bloodiest battles of the war so far, has seen renewed fighting. According to a report from Reuters , Russia claims to have made successful artillery and airstrikes near Bakhmut, although this cannot be independently verified.

https://twitter.com/secretsqrl123/status/1717188483679211828 https://twitter.com/GloOouD/status/1716925294370759162

A Russian drone attack early this morning damaged buildings near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant in western Ukraine. According to a report from Reuters, 20 people were injured in the strike.

At night, the enemy struck territory near the Khmelnytskyi nuclear power plant. As a result of the explosion, windows in administrative and laboratory buildings have been damaged, Ukraines energy ministry said on Telegram.

Ukrainian officials claim that the damage at Khmelnytskyi was not caused by a successful drone strike itself but by blast waves and falling debris, and that all 11 Russian drones launched in overnight attacks were actually brought down by Ukrainian air defenses.

https://www.twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1717234906839847100?s=20

As expected, the Russian parliament this morning signed off on withdrawal from a global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests. A law that rescinds Moscows ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) was approved by 156 votes to zero in the Federation Council  the upper house of parliament.

Previously, as we reported at the time , the Duma  the lower house  also passed the law unanimously. It will now go to President Vladimir Putin for signing.

https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1715321834814529832

Putin had earlier this month called for the Duma to approve withdrawal from the treaty. This, he argued, would mirror the position of the United States, which signed the 1996 treaty but never formally ratified it.

This treaty prohibits any kind of nuclear explosions anywhere in the world, although it has never fully entered into force.

The wider implications of the move remain to be seen, although Russia has said that it will not resume testing unless the United States does.

https://www.twitter.com/FPRI/status/1716650789064630372?s=20

Ukraine expects Germany to provide it with an additional $1.48 billion of funding that it will invest in improvements to its air defenses, according to Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. In particular, air defenses need to be enhanced ahead of the aforementioned Russian campaign of winter airstrikes.

Reports suggest that the air defense part of the German package will include one Patriot battery with eight launchers and around 60 missiles; Also included will be some items that have been pre-announced, namely one IRIS-T SLM battery and an undisclosed number of IRIS-T SLS launcher(s), as well as Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, which have already been delivered.

https://twitter.com/deaidua/status/1716871832668708950 https://twitter.com/Denys_Shmyhal/status/1716763753436365088

One item of military equipment not previously seen in Ukrainian hands is the Hibneryt self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, which was provided by Poland. The SPAAG consists of a Soviet-designed twin-barrel 23mm ZU-23-2 autocannon mounted on a Polish 6x6 Star 266 truck.

https://twitter.com/MarcinRogowsk14/status/1716851655235318161

Despite the focus on more modern Western-supplied heavy weapons of late, the next two tweets provide a reminder that the Ukrainian Armed Forces primarily still rely on Soviet-era equipment. Although the dates and locations are unclear, the video and photo below show examples of the ZSU-23-4 Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle, T-72 tank, and  more unusually  an older Russian T-62M tank that was very likely brought out of storage for use in Ukraine, before being captured and then put to use against its former operator.

https://twitter.com/TheDeadDistrict/status/1717040639672557928 https://twitter.com/TheDeadDistrict/status/1717040916572041453

A Russian T-64BV tank in much less fortunate circumstances in the next tweet. Although also undated, the video once again demonstrates the vulnerability of (especially) Soviet-era tanks to attacks that result in the detonation of their ammunition. The culprit on this occasion was purportedly an anti-tank guided missile of undisclosed type.

https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/1717108905333923948

And next, the inevitable counter to these kinds of attacks: a Russian T-90M tank showing off some of the most elaborately applied improved armor that we have seen on any armored vehicle in this conflict so far. In the video below you can see the tank with an elaborate array of add-on mesh screens around the turret and its remote weapon station on top. You can read more about the evolution of this type of ad-hoc armor in this previous article .

https://twitter.com/UKikaski/status/1717105922768576990

More military aid is headed to Ukraine, this time from Australia. The latest $12.8-million military assistance package includes a 3D metal printer as well as undisclosed anti-drone systems.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said : Australia remains steadfast in supporting Ukraine to defend itself against Russias illegal and immoral invasion.

To date, Australia has provided total aid to Ukraine amounting to roughly $582 million since Russia launched its full-scale invasion.

https://twitter.com/DefenceU/status/1717178305760166376

That is all for now. This story will be updated when theres more news to report about Ukraine.

Contact the author: thomas@thedrive.com
Z is an insignia used by Russian forces in Ukraine, and has become a pro-war symbol of the invasion

The Russian defence ministry has been recruiting prisoners to fight in Ukraine, apparently taking over from the Wagner mercenary group which was the first to adopt the practice last year.

Such army units are commonly known as Storm-Z, the letter Z being one of the symbols of Vladimir Putin 's so-called "special military operation" against Ukraine. It is also the first letter of the Russian word "zek", or "inmate".

The name Storm-Z is unofficial and can be applied to a range of Russian army units active in different parts of Ukraine.

Similarly to Wagner's prisoner units, Storm-Z detachments are reportedly often treated as an expendable force thrown into battle - with little consideration for the lives of their servicemen.

There are also indications that members of other army units can be sent to Storm-Z detachments as punishment for violations such as insubordination or drunkenness.

Wagner's role

Last year, Wagner head Yevgeny Prigozhin - known as "Putin's chef" - was allowed to recruit in prisons after tens of thousands of Russian troops were killed in Ukraine.

He personally visited numerous jails to promise convicted criminals that they would be able to go home free, and with their convictions removed, after six months of fighting for Wagner in Ukraine - if they survived.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The group, which employed experienced mercenaries as well as convicts, proved itself as a capable fighting force in locations such as the eastern Ukrainian town of Bakhmut.

But then Prigozhin very publicly escalated his criticism of Russia's top brass, accusing them of incompetence and of deliberately starving Wagner of ammunition. Two months after staging a short-lived mutiny, Prigozhin died in a plane crash in August 2023 together with Wagner's other top commanders.

The group has now all but disappeared from the battlefield in Ukraine.

Military takes over

Reports from Russia suggest that the defence ministry has taken over from Wagner as a recruiter of inmates for the war against Ukraine.

"It is the same scheme as with the [Wagner] private military company," said RTVI, a Russian news website. "Prisoners sign contracts with the defence ministry, and after completing them they can go home or continue serving."

One member of Storm-Z, a former prisoner interviewed by US-funded website Sever Realii, said defence ministry recruiters promised inmates lavish payments: a salary of 205,000 roubles (about $2,000 or 1,700) a month, a payment of 3m roubles ($31,000 or 26,000) per injury and 5m roubles ($52,000 or 43,000) to be paid to the recruit's relatives if he gets killed.

"It all sounded hunky-dory!" he said. But soon after being deployed to Ukraine the former prisoners realised they were being sent into a "total meat-grinder" without proper armaments or without even being told of the real situation on the front line, he said.

Russia is thought to have suffered heavy casualties in its repeated attempts to capture more Ukrainian land

The man - whose real name Sever Realii did not give - lost a leg in battle, but he survived, unlike some of his fellow fighters from Storm-Z.

Even though the Russian military has not confirmed or denied recruiting convicts, there are numerous indications of them being sent to units known as Storm-Z.

For example, Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russia-installed governor of the occupied city of Sevastopol in Crimea, on 17 October confirmed that one of the two Storm-Z members recently killed in fighting was an ex-prisoner who had "decided to atone for his guilt and signed a contract with the defence ministry in spring 2023".

Also in October, popular Russian newspaper Moskovsky Komsomolets interviewed another member of Storm-Z, a convicted murderer who uses the call sign Bandit. He had served six years of his 19-year prison sentence before joining the Russian military.

"It doesn't matter if you're a contract soldier, if you've been mobilised or if you are even a convict. No, we're like family," Bandit told the paper. "I just hope the defence ministry does what it promised and secures a pardon for me."

'They're just meat'

The defence ministry in Moscow first referred to "storm units" on 25 January this year, publishing a video of them training, but without going into the detail of who their members were. It is possible that the unit mentioned by the defence ministry is different from Storm-Z units which comprise convicts.

It said that the "storm units' job is to break through the most complicated layered parts of Ukrainian defences".

In practice, this appears to mean that they are often readily deployed without much consideration for their chances of survival.

"Storm fighters, they're just meat," one regular soldier who has fought alongside members of Storm-Z, told Reuters. In its investigation, the news agency also said that, in an echo of Stalin's penal military units, servicemen from other army detachments can get sent to Storm-Z as punishment for disobeying orders or drinking alcohol.

Russia is desperately trying to recruit more men for its invasion of Ukraine

Independent Russian website Agentstvo quoted a Russian soldier fighting in Ukraine's Kherson region (whose identity the website says it has confirmed) as saying that regular servicemen were sent to Storm-Z as a form of punishment. The man shared with Agentstvo a video of three masked men who he said were members of his brigade, one of whom says:

"This means they're running out of people, and our commanders plug these holes by sending people to Storm-Z. We think this is unlawful and illegitimate. This has to stop."

One Russian Telegram account believed to be run by a military instructor involved in training Storm-Z units claimed that some of their members had been driven to desperation and attempted desertion after being mistreated by their commanders.

"People can simply go berserk because they're being treated like dispensable meat which deserves no sympathy. And this attitude is in reality not uncommon," the account calling itself the Grey Zone Philologist said.

But then, it claimed, Storm-Z servicemen are not the only members of the Russian army subjected to mistreatment by "unhinged man-eating commanders".

The UK ministry of defence says it is possible that Storm-Z units were originally envisioned as "relatively elite organisations".

In an intelligence update published on 24 October, it says they have now effectively become "penal battalions, manned with convicts and regular troops on disciplinary charges".
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette received the largest funding award in its history to support efforts to ensure communities have access to electricity and other vital services during natural disasters.

The university is receiving $87 million in federal and state funds as part of Louisianas Hubs for Resilient Energy Operations, or HERO, initiative. UL Lafayette will create Community Resilience Hubs, which will be part of a network to help communities maintain access to electricity and key services during disasters.

Terry Chambers, the director of UL Lafayettes Green Hydrogen Center of Excellence, said in a release that the hubs will be implemented by building solar and battery microgrids at the universitys three research centers: the Louisiana Solar Energy Lab in Lafayette, the New Iberia Research Center and the Cleco Alternative Energy Center in Crowley.

Driven by a commitment to community resilience, were implementing these hubs at key research centers, Chambers said. These hubs represent a significant leap toward a more sustainable and connected future.

The HERO initiative is being funded through a $250-million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grant and $250 million in matching funds from state partners. UL Lafayette is the largest single recipient of the funding.

Through the initiative, the state plans to deploy a network of the Community Resilience Hubs, which should improve the states ability to respond to emergencies.

Acadiana energy: Solar panel maker First Solar breaks ground on $1.1 billion facility in Iberia Parish

The microgrids will  after a hurricane, for instance  serve communities by assisting first responders and providing spots where there would be power and people could get food and water, cool off, or charge cell phones, Chambers said.

UL Lafayette also will be training workers to install the microgrids. Earlier this year, the university was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy to lead the Louisiana Solar Corps  a statewide solar workforce training program. Now, the university will be working with Xavier University, the Louisiana Green Corps and the Louisiana State Building and Trades Council to grow the program.

The university also said in a release that being involved with HERO will help solidify the state as one of the nations leaders in the energy transition.

Our state is prone to natural disasters that can cause significant disruptions to our power grids, said Ramesh Kolluru, UL Lafayettes vice president for research, innovation and economic development. As a global leader in renewable and solar energies, our top-tier R1 research institution is uniquely positioned to improve the resiliency of our state during times of disasters. For more than a decade, we have been leading in the areas of disaster resiliency and energy resiliency, and through this project, we are bringing together those capabilities to make Louisiana more resilient and serve as a national model. We believe that to be our obligation as a public research university.

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This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: UL Lafayette gets $87 million for energy resilience initiative
The Utah Rivers Council unveiled its ambitious 4200 Project  a year in the works  that includes 12 recommendations including drastic measures, such as restructuring water rates and banning ornamental grass altogether in Utah.

There is no goal to restore the GSL by Utah and that is really a problem, said Zach Frankel, executive director of the council. Gov. (Spencer) Cox has been reluctant to support a water elevation goal and that has allowed him to celebrate minor successes.

Related

Frankel said the lake needs an additional eight million acre-feet of water and to get there, even if every northern Utah farmer stopped using water and every man, woman and child in northern Utah didnt use any water, it would still take 4.5 years to get there.

(This is) to give a sense of scale of how big this expedition is that we are on. We are not climbing the foothills. We are climbing Mount Everest or K2 and we need to be realistic and honest with ourselves, Frankel said.

The council, among its most ambitious goals, aims to stop all new upstream diversions to the Great Salt Lake not only in Utah, but the neighboring states of Idaho and Wyoming that are part of the Bear River Compact.

We need to work with the community of farmers in Wyoming and Idaho to purchase their water where we can and invest in efficiency measures, but make sure that the water saved through efficiency measures on farms is actually delivered to the Great Salt Lake and not like we oh, we need to do that someday, which is the current policy in Utah, Frankel said.

So that means we need to start working with Idaho and Wyoming and, for that matter, federal funding sources so we can start to work together to transfer surplus and wasted water on the farms of Idaho, Wyoming and Utah to deliver to the Great Salt Lake.

The councils dozen legislative recommendations include:

Overhaul the broken state agricultural optimization program to make sure all the water saved gets to the Great Salt Lake.

Quit subsidizing water rates through property taxes so the true cost of water is reflected.

Create a mechanism by which water rights are permanently secured for the benefit of the Great Salt Lake and not just leased.

Require a strict accounting for all secondary water use.

The councils 140-plus page report takes a deep dive into what it says has been a systemic mismanagement of a vital ecosystem not only important to Utah but to all residents of the United States and beyond.

The Great Salt Lake is the largest remaining wetland ecosystem in the American West, supporting 330 migratory bird species totaling eight to 10 million birds that travel from every country in South and Central America. Many birds gather at the Great Salt Lake in larger numbers than anywhere else on the planet, according to the council, landing the lake as a key resting place on the Pacific Flyway

Related

Frankel contends the states agricultural optimization program, in which $200 million of new money was directed last year, is a failed effort because it does not guarantee any of the water that is saved makes it to the Great Salt Lake.

Theres been descriptions that its actually going to lead to Great Salt Lake water deliveries. In actuality, theres nothing in that statute that requires saved water on these farms to be delivered to the Great Salt Lake. Theres been a lot of talk about that, but theres no requirement, he said.

Utahs commissioner over the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food rejected Frankels claim that the program is broken.

The Utah Agriculture Water Optimization program has been a successful effort by the state as well as Utahs farmers and ranchers who have come together to find effective solutions to agriculture water conservation. This program has effectively funded over 300 projects, the majority of which have been in the Great Salt Lake basin, to reduce water depletion and diversion, and early data shows the program has been successful in those efforts, Craig Buttars said.

Without the real life, applicable solutions provided by this incentive program, Utahs agricultural community would be unable to make the necessary changes while keeping our food supply intact. This program is working, and we continue to look for advancement and improvements to further our efforts, Buttars said.

The agency also pointed to a study by Utah State University that details the benefits of such a program, including less depletion of reservoir storage, surface water and groundwater resources. And in an area that drains into the Great Salt Lake, that matters.

Related

Frankel said leaders need to be held accountable, instead of digging through the cushions of a couch to come up with spare change to make a house payment on the lake. Rather, they need to come with a meaningful mortgage payment or plan to keep Utahs most critical ecosystem vibrant.

The Utah Rivers Council wrote a resolution to establish a minimum water level goal for the Great Salt Lake, run by Senator Nate Blouin, which failed to pass out of committee during the 2023 Utah Legislative Session. pic.twitter.com/yYB3wprsaV  Utah Rivers Council (@UtahRivers) October 25, 2023
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Eight Central Washington community leaders were recognized for their work at the Noche de Estrella awards in Union Gap.

Nearly 120 community leaders were nominated for the awards by community members, and after approval by the Estrella Awards committee, 47 were recognized for their outstanding work. Eight were awarded Estrella Awards at the Oct. 20 event, the organization said.

The Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce organized the awards ceremony, which took place at the Valley Mall.

The honorees were:

 Agriculture: Julio Cruz, operations manager at PNW Agrofresh Inc. in Yakima.

 Business: Eric Ramirez, loan officer at Academy Mortgage Co. in Yakima.

 Education: Mario Godoy Gonzalez, STEM-T3K education specialist at Red Rock Elementary School in Royal City.

 Emerging leader: Perla Bolanos Zapien, donor stewardship and scholarship coordinator at Heritage University in Toppenish.

 Health care: Juanita Silva, community care coordinator at MultiCare in Yakima.

 Altruism: Marichuy Alvizar, executive director of Unidos Nueva Alianza Foundation in Ephrata.

 Public services: Esmeralda Mora, coordinator of the bilingual pro bono program at Yakima County Volunteer Attorney Services.

 The Lucero Award, a special recognition, was given to Wendy Lopez, food safety auditor-agriculture at QIMA/WQS in Yakima.

The Noche de Estrellas is an awards ceremony to focus on the nominees and on their contributions to the community, said Amber Ortiz Diaz, chairwoman of the Noche De Estrella Awards committee and vice president of the CWHCC board of directors.

Hispanics/Latinos, we are here, and we are doing great things, we are qualified (for leadership roles), and we need the community to see us, to see that we are in these positions, she said. Its a night to celebrate the (Latino/Hispanic) culture, food, language, music, and I think there arent many spaces to do that. I think this is a special night to put it all together.

The Noche de Estrellas began in 2013 as Premios Estrella, the CWHCCs fundraising event, which is now replaced by the Taco Fest. The Noche de Estrellas now is more of a community event to celebrate and highlight Hispanic/Latino individuals from Central Washington, said Ortiz Diaz.

This year, the CWHCC added the emerging leader category, in addition to the previous seven categories.

We wanted to have a special category this year for those who started their own businesses or began their careers, Ortiz Diaz said.

Nominees came from Yakima, Grant, Kittitas and Adams counties, among others. While the chamber of commerce office is in Yakima, it serves the entire Central Washington area.

For more information about Noche de Estrellas or the Central Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, visit the website in English and Spanish at www.cwhcc.com
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Letters reflect the opinion of the writer. The Yakima Herald-Republic cannot verify the accuracy of all statements made in letters.

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Huawei mobile phones are displayed in their store at Vina del Mar

By Yelin Mo and Brenda Goh

BEIJING (Reuters) -Huawei's China smartphone sales grew strongly in the third quarter as shoppers snapped up its Mate 60 series phones, two research firms said on Thursday, with one noting this was helping narrow the market share gap with top brands such as Apple.

Counterpoint said Huawei recorded a 37% year-on-year increase in smartphone sales in the quarter thanks to the Mate 60 launch, while Canalys noted its market share continued growing and it was narrowing the gap with leading rivals.

The findings mark a comeback for Huawei, whose smartphone business was hard hit by U.S. export controls imposed against the company since 2019.

Its Mate 60 Pro phone, in particular, grabbed global attention after its launch in August as it was found to be using a domestically made advanced chip that for more analysts and users symbolized how the company had overcome U.S. sanctions.

"If Huawei's new Kirin chips are expanded to mid-range and low-end product lines in the future, it will have the potential to further disrupt the competition among top brands in the market," said Canalys analyst Lucas Zhong.

Counterpoint said its research found Huawei had grabbed the position of sixth-largest smartphone brand in China during the quarter with a share of 12.9%, up from 9.1% from the same period a year ago.

It also found that overall smartphone sales in China fell 3% in the quarter compared with the same period last year, extending a declining trend as the economy slows and cost-conscious consumers delay phone upgrades.

Canalys noted that the top five smartphone brands in China all experienced declining or flat sales compared to last year. Vivo had experienced the steepest drop at 26%, followed by Oppo with a 10% decrease, Apple with a 6% decline and Honor with a 1% dip. Xiaomi was flat year-over-year.

Honor took first place with shipments of 11.8 million units and an 18% market share, according to Canalys. Oppo and Apple tied for second place, both with 16% shares.

Story continues

Apple maintained its high ranking partly thanks to the launch of its iPhone 15 series in China on Sept. 22, it said.

Counterpoint said earlier this month that Huawei sold an estimated 1.6 million units of its Mate 60 series within the first six weeks of its launch.

Sales of Apple's iPhone 15, however, underperformed early sales of the iPhone 14, Counterpoint also said.

(Reporting by Yelin Mo, Liz Lee in Beijing and Brenda Goh in Shanghai; Editing by Jamie Freed and Muralikumar Anantharaman)
Amazon reports results for the third quarter after the closing bell on Thursday. Beata Zawrzel/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Amazon is set to report its earnings for the third quarter after the closing bell on Thursday.

Investors are eyeing the results of Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days event.

AWS revenue will also be in focus after investors have tempered their expectations for revenue growth.

Investors have their eye on Amazon as they wait for the retail giant to report third-quarter results on Thursday after the closing bell.

In focus will be the results of Amazon's Prime Big Deals Days event, as well as guidance for consumer spending during the holidays. Investors are also looking out for the revenue pulled from Amazon's cloud business, AWS, after tempering their expectations for AWS revenue growth over the past few months.

Amazon, though, has enjoyed a so-far strong performance this year. Its stock is up nearly 50% from levels in January, partly fueled by Wall Street's excitement for AI, as well as Amazon's blowout second quarter earnings report, which saw net sales surge to an above-expected $131.34 billion.

Here's what Wall Street is expecting from Amazon's financials over the past quarter, per Bloomberg data:

Revenue: $141.56 billion

Earnings per share: $0.58

Here's what Wall Street analysts are saying about Amazon ahead of its highly-watched earnings report.

Bank of America: Third quarter sales could come in strong

The Seattle-based retailer could beat third quarter earnings expectations, given that consumer spending is still robust. Online shopping was up 1% year-over-year over the third quarter, according to Bank of America credit and debit card data, a trend that could continue through the end of the year.

"As for 4Q, Big Deal Days data points seemed strong, and we think holiday hiring (+250k) signals still-strong demand," the bank said in a note.

Bank of America reiterated its "Buy" rating with a $174 price target, representing potential upside of 35%.

Goldman Sachs: Retailer faces rising competition and energy costs

Revenue for Amazon Web Services likely was stable over the past quarter, Goldman Sachs said, according to cloud computing industry checks analysts performed through September.

Story continues

"We model stable AWS revenue growth in Q3 over Q2 (at 12% YoY) and reacceleration in Q4 (+14% YoY) on easier comps, a lower pace of optimization, and growth in new workloads.

Still, the company faces a handful of possible headwinds, including new competition from eCommerce platforms like Temu. Energy prices have also soared in recent months, which could eat into profit margins as Amazon manages its physical stores and its AWS business.

"We believe that each +10 increase in energy costs could result in a $200-$300mm headwind to Q3 EBIT," analysts said, referring to Amazon's earnings before interest and taxes.

Goldman Sachs reiterated its "Buy" rating but lowered its price target to $175 a share, representing potential upside of 36%.

JMP: "Christmas comes early with Prime Big Deal Days"

Online sales likely surged through Amazon's Prime Big Days. Already, the company has reported over 150 million items being sold during the two-day event, JMP strategists noted.

"While we are impressed with the success of AMZN's Prime Big Deal Days event, we do not view it as a material incremental benefit to revenue but rather an elongation of holiday spending, Still, we believe driving higher 3P sales, increasing utilization of its fulfillment network, and stretching out the holiday season may provide upside to margins in 4Q," strategists added.

JMP rates Amazon at "Buy" with a $175 price target, representing potential upside of 36%.

Jefferies: "We see runway for continued margin improvement"

AWS profits are set to pick up, as cloud optimizations are winding down while AI demand is ramping up. That supports an acceleration in Amazon's AWS business, Jefferies said.

"We believe AWS Net Sales expectations have bottomed and expect to see continued positive estimate revisions drive the story higher as cloud cost optimization headwinds fade and AI-driven workloads support new migrations," analysts said in a note last week.

Jefferies rates Amazon at "Buy" with a $175 price target, representing potential upside of 36%.

JPMorgan: Expect retail growth uptick

JPMorgan expects healthy profits through the second half for Amazon. That's largely supported by the strong American consumer, with traction gaining in areas like grocery, clothing, and furniture. The bank also expects AWS growth to accelerate through the second half.

"We project +8.2% Y/Y US e- comm growth in 2023, along with online penetration of total retail at 21.9% (+90bps Y/Y). Long-term, we continue to believe US e-commerce penetration of adj retail sales could double from 21% currently to 40%+," strategists said in a recent note.

JPMorgan rates Amazon at "Buy" with $180 price target, representing potential upside of 40%.

Read the original article on Business Insider
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Aiud| Un barbat din Ocna Mures a fost depistat pozitiv la testul pentru droguri

La data de 3 noiembrie 2023, in jurul orei 17.00, politistii rutieri din Aiud, in timp ce actionau pe raza municipiului Aiud, au oprit, pentru control, un autoturism condus de un barbat de 31 de ani, din Ocna Mures. In urma testarii cu aparatul [citeste mai departe]
Foreign Investors Council representatives, authorities discuss fiscal overhaul, measures to boost private investments Representatives of the Foreign Investors Council (FIC) conveyed to the authorities the concerns of large-scale investors regarding the new turnover tax measure and its impact on the economy, as well as a series of recommendations that could reduce the imbalances in the tax system and would help avoid certain economic stalemate situations, FIC informs in a release on Thursday. "We understand the macroeconomic context we are in, we are aware of the government's efforts to reduce the budget deficit and we support the fiscal reform plan as set forth in the NRRP (elimination of exceptions, broadening Citeste articolul mai departe pe stiripesurse.ro

Sursa articol si foto: stiripesurse.ro

Stiri pe aceeasi tema

- Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) informed on Friday that so far two people with dual Israeli-Romanian citizenship residing in Israel have been confirmed dead after the outbreak of the deadly conflict in the area. According to a MAE press release, it is about a person whose death was announced

- The European Union agreed to a deal on Thursday to slash the use of super-potent greenhouse gases in fridges and air conditioners, part of the EUs broader plans to cut CO2 emissions and protect the environment, according to Reuters. Negotiators from EU countries and lawmakers reached a deal on the

- Foreign Investors Council: New fiscal measures package puts investments under question markThe Foreign Investors Council (FIC) has warned on the recent proposals for tax changes, which not only substantially change the tax legislation and introduce a series of new taxes or increases, but also cancel

- The chairman of the Harghita County Council, Borboly Csaba, supports the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR) to vote a no-confidence motion against the Government, if the Union's proposals for the ordinance on fiscal measures will not be accepted.Borboly Csaba, who is also the president

- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Romanian Foreign Minister Luminita Odobescu on Thursday held a call to discuss Romanias investigation into drone debris found in Romania close to its border with Ukraine, the U.S. State Department said, according to Reuters. Parts of what could be a Russian

- Conform unui ultim draft in ceea ce priveste pachetul fiscal pe care doreste guvernul sa-l adopte prin asumarea raspunderii in parlament, bursele private, care in prezent reprezinta credit fiscal, cu alte cuvinte se scad din impozitul pe profit datorat, respectiv cele care se incadreaza in limitele

- Premierul Ciolacu se inmoaie pe saptamana ce trece. A promis ca pana la 31 august rezolva problema deficitului bugetar, dar nici pana acum n-au aparut in dezbatere publica documentele oficiale promise. I

- Finance Minister Marcel Bolos will pay a working visit to Brussels after August 21 to discuss with European Commission representatives the emergency ordinances on the cut of budget expenditures and the planned fiscal package, before the government approves them, governmental sources declared on Thursday.The
Stiri pe aceeasi tema

- Romania continues to participate in ongoing negotiations for Schengen accession, but the reality is that the area of free movement no longer functions, President Klaus Iohannis said on Thursday ahead of the European Council, according to Euractiv. While Austria says that its opposition is not directed

- Presedintele Klaus Iohannis a transmis, joi, un mesaj de condoleante presedintelui Statelor Unite ale Americii, Joe Biden, in urma atacului armat din Lewiston, Maine. In numele cetatenilor romani si al meu personal, va transmit profunde condoleante pentru pierderea atator vieti nevinovate in atacul

- Presedintele american Joe Biden a ordonat joi sa se coboare in berna steagurile la cladirile federale, in Statele Unite, la o zi dupa un atac armat soldat cu cel putin 18 morti si 13 raniti in nord-estul tarii, relateaza AFP, conform news.ro.Aceasta decizie a fost luata in semn de respect fata de

- President Klaus Iohannis will participate, on Thursday and Friday, in the European Council meeting and the extended Euro Summit, which will take place in Brussels, the Presidential Administration informed in a release sent to AGERPRES on Wednesday.President Iohannis will emphasize that our country

- President Klaus Iohannis will welcome, on Tuesday, at the Cotroceni Palace, his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyi, who will be on an official visit to our country, at the invitation of the Romanian head of state, the Presidential Administration informed.According to the source, the visit

- President Klaus Iohannis will attend the high-level meeting of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday and will deliver the national address in this format on Wednesday.On the sidelines of the event, the Romanian president will hold bilateral meetings and take part in the formal dedicated events included

- President Klaus Iohannis will lead, between September 18-22, the Romanian delegation to the high-level segment of the 78th session of the General Assembly of the United Nations (UN), which will take place in New York, United States of America, the Presidential Administration reports, Agerpres reports.The

- President Klaus Iohannis will receive, on Tuesday, the Prime Minister of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Xavier Bettel, on the occasion of the latter's visit to Cincu, in Brasov county, at the invitation of the Romanian side, the Presidential Administration informed.According to the quoted source,
Allied Market Research

The growth of the global citrus fiber market can be attributed to an increase in demand for fiber supplements due to the health benefits of citrus fibers.

Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Recently, Allied Market Research published a report, "Citrus Fiber Market by Application (Bakery, Sauces & Seasonings, Meat & Egg Replacement, Desserts & Ice-Creams, Beverages, Flavorings, & Coatings, Snacks & Meals, and Others), Type (Orange, Tangerines/Mandarins, Grapefruit, Lemon, Lime, And Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030". As per the report, the global citrus fiber market is anticipated to garner $659.2 million by 2030. The market accounted for $390.6 million in 2020 and will register a CAGR of 5.5% during the 2021-2030 period.

Request Sample Report: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/7225

Important growth drivers and opportunities

The global citrus fiber market is predicted to witness substantial growth in the coming period on account of rise in demand for fiber supplements due to different health benefits associated with citrus fibers. On the contrary, side effects associated with excessive consumption of fiber may restrict the growth of the market. Nonetheless, growing adoption of plant-based foods, along with soaring demand from developing countries are anticipated to open up new growth opportunities in the market.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $390.6 million Market Size in 2032 $659.2 million CAGR 5.5% No. of Pages in Report 253 Segments covered Type, Application and Region Drivers Citrus fibers are neutral in flavor

citrus fiber-added refined food is easier to cook. Opportunities An increase in processed food items have also increased demand for citrus fiber. Restraints Citrus fiber supplements among the global population, hence, propels growth

The bakery segment held the highest market share in 2020

By application, the bakery segment held the highest market share in 2020 and is expected to continue on its growth trajectory during the analysis timeframe. The addition of citrus fibers in baked goods has several advantages such as moisture retention, oil or fat reduction, and increased shelf-life. These advantages have increased the popularity of citrus fibers in bakery segment. On the other hand, the beverages flavorings and coatings segment is expected to grow with the highest CAGR of 5.9% by 2030. The report also studies the sauces and seasoning, meat and egg replacement, desserts and ice-creams, and snacks and meals segments.

Story continues

Buy This Report (253 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https://bit.ly/3s9MIIn

The orange segment to dominate by 2030

By product type, the orange segment was the most dominant in 2020 and is expected to continue on its growth journey during the 2021-2030 period. The low-calorie and high-nutrient content, along with presence of antioxidants to reduce inflammation has led to widespread popularity of oranges. This growth in popularity may translate into the strengthening of the sub-segment. The grapefruit segment, on the other hand, is anticipated to have the fastest CAGR of 6.5% by 2030. The presence of vitamins and minerals which prevent infection have led to a rise in popularity of grapefruits and thus expanded the scope of this sub-segment. The report also includes a study of tangerines/mandarins, lemons, and lime segments.

North America to offer numerous growth opportunities

By region, the North America citrus fiber market held a dominant position in 2020 and is expected to be highly profitable in the forecast period also. Growing demand for fortified foods & beverages in different countries of North America is the primary growth driver of the market in this region. On the other hand, the Asia-Pacific citrus fiber market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.3% during the analysis timeframe. Widespread production of sources of citrus fibers in various countries of this region is predicted to increase the foothold of the market in the region.

Enquire Before Buying: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/purchase-enquiry/7225

Major Companies of the Market

Cargill Incorporated

CEAMSA

DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

Golden Health

JRS Silvateam Ingredients S.r.l.

AMC Group

Naturex SA

CP Kelco

FGF Trapani

Herbafood Ingredients GmbH

Ingredients by Nature

Quadra Chemicals Ltd

Carolina Ingredients

Edge Ingredients

Fiberstar, Inc.

Lucid Colloids Ltd.

Hebei Lemont Biotechnology Co., Ltd.

Nans Products

Citrus Extracts LLC

Royal DSM

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On Monday, Oct. 23, Sen. Jana Hughes answered questions from members of the York community about child care in York  the latest step in a growing effort in York County to increase access to affordable, quality child care.

In York County about 20% of children under the age of 6 whose available parents are working will not be able to find child care in 2023, according to research from Communities for Kids, a child care research and community support network.

At the same time as York parents struggle to find child care providers, the providers are struggling to find workers.

The elephant in the room, Sen. Hughes said on Monday, is staffing. Carlee Carter, owner of Little Cubs Daycare, told the News-Times over the phone, Finding quality people that will work at what a daycare can afford to pay is very difficult.

A lot of Carters entry level staff make close to minimum wage, which is currently $10.50 per hour, but will increase on Jan. 1 to $12 per Nebraska minimum wage laws. Full time staff, meanwhile, need to make a decent amount more to make the job appealing, Carter said.

What Im struggling with, Carter told the News-Times, is what would be a rate that parents can afford but that will pay my staff more. Around 30% of York parents say that affordability is a factor in finding child care, according to Community for Kids.

On Monday, Hughes discussed legislative solutions to the childcare workforce and affordability issue. Hughes mentioned LB 754, a tax cut package, passed in the spring, which expands existing tax credits for child care professionals and creates a new refundable tax credit for parents with children enrolled in child care, according to First Five Nebraska.

The state legislature is also looking into streamlining the frustrating fingerprinting and background process required for people to work in child care, Hughes said on Monday.

Ultimately, the state will have to look into creative solutions, Hughes said.

Parents have been getting creative about securing child care for years. Often parents put their names on a waitlist months ahead in order to secure a spot with a child care provider.

Ellyn Hansen, a mother of two, said, We told the daycare we were having a baby before we told most people. Hansen informed her child care provider as soon as she was 8 weeks pregnant with her eldest. She did the same with her younger child.

Grace Stoehr, a mother of two, told the News-Times that she and her coworkers at York Dental Associates always say, if you are pregnant, the first thing you have to do is go to somebody and find a place. Nearly 60% of people in York say that the reason child care is difficult to find is because the childcare provider they wanted did not have any openings, according to Communities for Kids.

But even if parents plan ahead and put their children on a waitlist, there may still be delays. Hansen says that in the case of both of her children, despite putting their names on a waitlist months before giving birth, she had to wait around three months after each of her children were born before they were able to attend the daycare.

During the three months after her eldest child was born, she brought him to the small business she ran at the time. Then when her youngest was born, her new job let her take three months of maternity leave.

Hansen says that she has been very fortunate with her daycare and that she knows parents for whom it has been much more of a challenge to find affordable child care.

The effects of the lack of affordable child care spreads out from families to other aspects of the community, especially businesses.

Its important to note that childcare is impacting our business community because its a key component in recruiting and retaining staff, Emily Perry, development coordinator for York County Development Corporation, told the News-Times.

According to Perry, many business leaders say that childcare is one of the leading causes of issues with recruiting and retaining staff, based on results from the Business Retention and Expansion Survey, a yearly survey conducted by YCDC with business leaders in the community.

In a survey conducted by Communities for Kids in Fall 2022, around 40% percent of respondents said that a lack of available child care for current or potential employees had affected their ability to grow their business.

York General Hospital has had a few cases in which they have lost potential employees because they were unable to offer childcare to all of the employees children, Bethany Childers, vice president of human resources for York General, told the News-Times. York General has a child care center with limited space, which serves the children of the staff at York General.

Childers also said that York General has had at least two cases in the last year when a spouses schedule changed and so staff members had to leave their positions at York General to take care of their children.

There is some indication that Yorks child care access is improving or at least stabilizing, according Rachel Sissel, associate vice president of Early Childhood Progress at Nebraska Children and Families Foundation. The city gained at least one new in-home childcare provider and has lost none since last year, according to Community for Kids.

Hopefully by lessening that number, Perry said, referring to the number of children under 6 in need of child care but unable to find it, the burden on the business community is lessened as well, Perry said.

Members in various fields in York have been determined in the past few years to solve the issue of child care access.

In fact, Sissel says that she encourages other communities to connect to York to learn about the work that child care advocates, professionals and various other community leaders are doing here.

She points to the work that Chandra Berlin, a child care advocate and leader, has done coordinating a network of child care providers in York so that they can learn from each other.

Mondays town hall at the Holthus Center with Hughes, which Jake Owens, executive director of York Community Health Coalition, helped organize and run, is perhaps also an example of Yorks commitment to solving the issue.

In addition, this year Carter and Madonna Mogul, executive director at the York Chamber of Commerce, were accepted to participate in the Nebraska Early Childhood Policy Leadership Academy.

During the six-month program, educators, childcare providers and business owners from around the state meet to discuss policies that advance the care, education and healthy development of young children, according to a press release from First Five Nebraska, which organizes the Policy Leadership Academy.

We learn to be effective in advocating for childcare, Mogul told the News-Times. Its a tool we can utilize to advocate for anything, really.

Chandra Berlin, Jake Owens and Emily Perry also all went through the PLA program.

As Owen said at the end of Mondays meeting with Hughes, everyone has a dog in this fight. He told everyone to help spread the urgency of the issue. The crying baby in attendance drove home the point.
The heinous attack on Israel by Hamas this month sent shockwaves throughout the Middle East and across the world. War in one part of the world has a ripple effect  we all feel its impact. In this case, the United States is especially affected. Hamas killed American citizens in its assaults on innocent people across Israel. It is holding American citizens hostage underground in Gaza. Hamas has American blood on its hands.

The United States and Israel have always been bound by shared values and strategic interests. We are now further bound by shared tragedy. This is why our government must act  not just to protect Israeli interests, but to promote American interests.

Its critical that we return every American stranded in Israel or being held hostage in Gaza. Every American must be accounted for and safely brought home. This should be top priority for the administration.

Our action in support of Israel wont only protect American citizens  it will also buttress our national defense. Standing with Israel involves countering Iran, a regime that openly supports terrorist organizations by providing them with resources and funding.

We must act to show terrorist groups, and their state sponsor Iran, that we will not abide the slaughter and kidnapping of Americans. We must gather all of our economic and diplomatic strength to send a powerful message to Iran.

Iran wants to see Israel destroyed by terror. Beyond that, it wants to see the United States destroyed. The regimes proxy forces continue to attack our military forces regularly in Iraq and Syria. The risks are too great to allow Iran to accelerate this conflict.

As we counter Iran, we must also provide as much assistance as we can to our ally Israel. We know Israel will need more defensive capabilities, including Tamir interceptors for its Iron Dome air defense system  the backbone of its missile defense architecture. My colleagues and I introduced a bill last week to reallocate aid funding that could have ended up in Hamass pockets to Israels Iron Dome. This legislation would be an important first step in defending Israel against further attacks.

We know Israel will need more offensive capabilities, including precision guided munitions to hit specific ground targets. We know Israel will need more medical equipment to help troops and citizens recover from continued vicious attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah.

The United States and Israel have long partnered by sharing intelligence on terrorism in the Middle East. That partnership must continue. We must ensure that we are providing all the intelligence assistance we can to help Israel eliminate the Hamas threat.

Congress and the administration must work together to aid Israel in whatever way possible  whether through funding, military equipment, or intelligence sharing. Our support of Israel will help it triumph over terrorism. And our support of Israel will help us to show strength and deter adversaries like Iran. Standing with Israel promotes our own American interests as well.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.
New Delhi: In a significant move, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken a strict stance against social media influencer Mohammad Nasiruddin Ansari, popularly known as the 'Baap of Chart.' SEBI's recent actions include banning Ansari from participating in the securities market and imposing a substantial fine of Rs 17.2 crore. This development sheds light on the risks associated with unregistered investment advisory activities and raises questions about the responsibilities of social media influencers in the financial sector.

Who is Mohammad Nasiruddin Ansari?

Ansari, the sole proprietor of 'Baap of Chart' (BoC), presented himself as an investment expert on various social media platforms. He attracted investors and clients to enroll in various "educational courses" he offered. Crucially, Ansari allegedly promised investors almost certain returns if they followed his stock recommendations in the securities market.

The Modus Operandi

SEBI's investigation uncovered that Ansari was dispensing stock recommendations for buying and selling through 'Baap of Chart' across various social media platforms, including YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, and Telegram. He encouraged investors to sign up for his "educational courses" via a website and apps provided by Bunch Microtechnologies Pvt Ltd. Within this platform, students could interact with "tutors" in real-time, sharing information, documents, and content. Furthermore, Ansari reportedly provided buy/sell recommendations in private groups of his investors and clients.

Financial Figures

The investigation revealed that Ansari collected Rs 13.78 crore from the courses and workshops listed on the Bunch platform and mobile apps. This entire amount was considered fees received from fraudulent and unregistered investment advisory activities, according to SEBI. Additionally, Rs 3.42 crore was collected through two UPI IDs linked to Ansari and BoC's accounts in Kotak Mahindra Bank. These UPI IDs were publicized on the website and social media channels.

SEBI's Response

In its interim order, SEBI accused Ansari and BoC of attempting to portray their advisory activities as educational in nature, while their primary objective was financial gain. The order stated that the theatrical and deceptive elements in the YouTube videos issued by Ansari and BoC aimed to create an illusion of extraordinary returns, attracting gullible viewers and inducing them to trade in the securities market. SEBI believes that at its core, the activity was fraudulent, and it appeared that Ansari and BoC were seeking to make a quick profit by luring individuals into trading on their advice and recommendations.

The Broader Implications

This case underscores the importance of regulating social media influencers who provide financial advice. It highlights the need for clear rules and guidelines in the digital age, where individuals can easily reach a vast audience with potentially misleading or fraudulent information. SEBI's actions serve as a warning to those who misuse their influence to engage in unregistered investment advisory activities.
New Delhi: Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday slammed the Bhartiya Janata Party for Enforcement Directorate's action against Congress leaders in Rajasthan including a summon to his son Vaibhav Gehlot. Gehlot said. Accusing the BJP of misusing central agencies, Gehlot said, "BJP does not want that women, farmers and poor in Rajasthan should get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress."

Addressing a press conference in Jaipur, Gehlot Said, "...The situation today is worrying. The question is not about someone, the question is not about my son. They have spread terror across the country. I have heard that ED officers have shifted their families to Chhattisgarh for a year now and are living there on rent because they had to raid every day..."

"...Gundagardi hai yeh...Without pressure from the top neither ED nor CBI can come..," Gehlot added.

Rajasthan Congress in-charge Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa slamming the BJP over ED's action said, "...This is a black day for democracy. This has never happened before during elections. A new trend has begun in Rajasthan and the Congress-ruled states that go to polls. I would like to ask BJP Govt if they have anything else except IT, ED and CBI. Congress will not be scared. BJP should show the symbols of ED, CBI and IT along with its 'Lotus' symbol."
New Delhi: Israel on Wednesday appealed to India to join many other countries in banning Hamas as a terrorist organisation, while thanking New Delhi for its solid support to its fight against the group. Israeli ambassador to New Delhi Naor Gilon said they had discussed the issue of banning Hamas as a terrorist group with India after the deadly attacks on Israeli cities on October 7. He also said they had raised the matter before as well.

The democracies of the world are with us. They are the important countries for us. And I think it is time for India to officially ban Hamas as a terror group, Gilon said at a press conference. The Israeli ambassador said several countries like the US, Canada and the European Union had already banned Hamas as a terror group.

We have talked to the authorities here. It is not the first time we have done that. We both understand the threat of terrorism. We are not pressuring anyone. We think it is the right thing to do because of our shared war on terror, Gilon said about Israels request to India to ban Hamas as a terror group.

We brought up the issue after the attack and we are still talking. We are having a friendly conversation with India. We agree on most things, including counter-terrorism and other strategic issues, he said.

More than 1,400 people died in the unprecedented attacks on Israel by Hamas on October 7. Hamas has taken more than 220 people hostage in Gaza. According to officials in Gaza, about 6,500 people have died in Israels retaliatory strikes.

Gilon also expressed his gratitude to India for its 100 per cent support to Israel in its anti-terror operations against Hamas and especially mentioned Prime Minister Narendra Modis post on X expressing his shock over the terror attacks and standing with the people of Israel.

Prime Minister Modi ji was one of the first leaders in the world to make a very clear statement, he said. The envoy said Modis words strongly condemning terrorism set a very clear tone.

It is important for us because India is a very close ally. But India is also a very important moral voice in the world. India knows what it is talking about when it comes to terrorism, because it has been a victim of terrorism itself, Gilon said.

Israeli Envoy Says War With Hamas Is About Survival

On Israels war with Hamas, he said it was about the countrys survival in the tough neighbourhood of the Middle East.

For Israel, it is a war of survival in the Middle East. We live in a very tough neighbourhood. In the Middle East, if you are seen as weak, your life will be miserable, he said. If people think they can attack Israel, we will be attacked all the time. So we cannot afford to be vulnerable. We have to make sure that people who have bad intentions towards us cannot carry them out, he said.

The envoy said any sign of Hamas winning in the war against Israel would have serious consequences in the region and beyond and that was not acceptable at all. The success of Hamas is not an option for moderate regimes in the Middle East. They do not want that scenario, he said.

The Israeli envoy also accused Iran of supporting Hamas. Iran has been funding, training and arming Hamas for years, he alleged. Iran has denied the allegation in the past.
New Delhi: The Opposition was up in arms on Wednesday against the NCERT panels suggestion to change India to Bharat in school textbooks. Many leaders from different parties expressed their strong opposition to the idea. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Priyanka Chaturvedi called the idea a political decision and said, It is sad that they are creating an India Vs Bharat divide. The words India that is Bharat were written in our Constitution by Dr. BR Ambedkar himself. The future generations will not pardon them (the Centre) for this discrimination. For us, India is also Bharat and Hindustan. If the BJP had any sense of national pride, they would not change the name India to Bharat.

She also said, They (BJP) keep attacking the INDIA (grand Opposition) alliance. They should criticise us on the issues that we raise and the statements that we make, but they should not do cheap politics over the countrys name.

West Bengal Education Minister and Trinamool Congress leader, Bratya Basu, also slammed the Centre over the NCERT panels suggestion and said, This is a ridiculous suggestion. It is clear that the BJP-led central government is afraid of the word INDIA. It is a strange decision. The suggestion sets a bad example and it seems that they are scared of INDIA and (TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister) Mamata Banerjee.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also criticised the Centre over the NCERT panels suggestion and said, Why are we still saying the Reserve Bank of India, Indian Administrative Service and Indian Foreign Service? Our passports still have the words Republic of India written on them. I think there is something fundamentally wrong with this government. Why are they confusing the citizens unnecessarily? Their stance or position on this issue is anti-people, anti-India, and anti-Bharat. It is clear that the NCERT panel was forced to do this by the NDA government. This is totally wrongyou cannot change the countrys history. The Karnataka government will not make any such changes to textbooks.

The words President of Bharat in an official invitation from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to the G20 member leaders and delegates for a ceremonial dinner earlier had triggered a fierce political battle and raised doubts that the Centre was planning to introduce a motion in Parliament to rename India as Bharat.
New Delhi: In a significant development aimed at boosting pilgrimage, Pakistan is reportedly contemplating the reduction of service charges from USD 20 to encourage more Sikh pilgrims to visit the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib through the Kartarpur Corridor. The Prime Minister's Office of Pakistan has sought inputs and recommendations from the country's foreign and interior ministries on this matter.

Gurudwara Sri Kartarpur Sahib is deeply revered in Sikhism as the final resting place of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder and first Guru of Sikhism. Located about five kilometers from the Indo-Pak border in Pakistan, this site has long been a beacon for devotees worldwide.

The Kartarpur Corridor, a landmark initiative inaugurated on November 9, 2019, by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and then Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, was designed to facilitate easier access for pilgrims. Despite its significance and potential, the corridor has witnessed an average daily footfall of fewer than 200 pilgrims, considerably below the anticipated 5,000.

Addressing this issue, Pakistans Public Affairs Unit (PAU) of the Prime Minister's Office is reviewing suggestions from Ramesh Singh Arora, MPA (NM370). Key among these recommendations is the proposal to extend the visiting hours for Indian 'Yatrees' (pilgrims) to a full 24 hours, rather than the current dawn-to-dusk schedule. Moreover, there's a strong push to reconsider the USD 20 entry fee levied on Indian pilgrims. The PAU has requested viewpoints from its foreign, interior, and financial ministries regarding these changes.

Although no visa is required to use the Kartarpur Corridor, the necessity to record passport details remains a barrier for many Indians without passports. Harjinder Singh Dhami, the President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), has called for more than just the elimination of the USD 20 service fee for Sikh pilgrims visiting the Gurdwara Darbar Sahib via the Kartarpur Corridor.

He is also advocating for India and Pakistan to waive the passport requirement for using the corridor, highlighting that a significant portion of Punjab's residents do not possess passports. He further said, The decision, which still awaits finalization, could mark an important step in facilitating easier and more affordable access to one of Sikhism's most sacred sites.

Initially, Pakistan had claimed that they have spent PKR 16.2 billion on developing the Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Project. In return for the service charge, Pakistan offered Indian pilgrims complimentary shuttle services, free meals (langar), medical facilities, security, and administrative support. This service charge, however, has been a subject of contention said Pakistan in an agreement with India.

In 2019, Amarinder Singh, then Chief Minister of Punjab, India, criticized the service charge, comparing it to "Jaziya"  a historical tax levied on non-Muslims. Ramesh Singh Arora, echoing similar concerns, suggested that the fee should be revised: a family should be charged a collective fee of USD 20 rather than an individual fee for each member. He also proposed a quarter-fee for frequent visitors, subject to approval from the relevant Pakistani ministries.

Maninder Singh Sirsa, National Secretary, BJP while talking to ZEE News said, "Charging fee for the holy pilgrimage has left many Sikh devotees dismayed, we have been consistently urged Pakistan that they should not levy such a fee on the pilgrims to Kartrapur Sahib."

India and Pakistan opened the Kartarpur Corridor on November 9, 2019, coinciding with the 550th Gurpurab of Guru Nanak Dev, it is learnt that Pakistan may reduce the Service charges on the Parkash Purb anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev on Nov 27 this year.

Vikramjit Singh Sahney, a member of the Rajya Sabha, recently highlighted these issues, urging the Government of India to discuss and negotiate the service charge and other related matters with Pakistan. This potential reduction in service charges and the extension of visiting hours could significantly enhance the pilgrimage experience for Sikh devotees, fostering greater religious and cultural exchange between India and Pakistan, says Sahney.
CARMEL, Ind., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) today named Karen DeToro as president, Worksite Division and Jeremy Williams as chief actuary, effective January 1, 2024. DeToro and Williams will report to Gary C. Bhojwani, chief executive officer.

(PRNewsfoto/CNO Financial Group)

DeToro, currently CNO's chief actuary, is a seasoned insurance and financial services industry leader with nearly 30 years of experience in strategy, individual and group insurance product management, technology enablement, actuarial and finance. She is succeeding Michael Byers, who is retiring from CNO early next year.

"In the past several years, CNO expanded our Worksite offerings as a comprehensive provider of personalized employee benefits solutions," said Bhojwani. "Karen's appointment to lead our Worksite Division reflects her strong leadership, deep knowledge of CNO's businesses and strong understanding of the employee benefits and voluntary benefits space. As we continue to evolve our Worksite business, Karen's track record of solid execution and supporting profitable growth will position us to further advance our strategic Worksite priorities."

"I thank Mike for his many contributions to CNO," added Bhojwani. "He has played a significant role in unifying our Worksite capabilities and successfully launching our Optavise brand in 2022. CNO's Worksite business remains well-positioned to support our national and regional employers, brokers and career agents. We wish Mike continued success in retirement."

Williams, who joined CNO in 2003, has held several actuarial senior leadership roles during his nearly 20-year career with the company. He was most recently the company's senior vice president of valuation.

"Jeremy brings a deep understanding of CNO's products and customers to the chief actuary role, including significant experience in our life, health and annuity lines of business," said Bhojwani. "His nearly 25 years of well-rounded actuarial experience and strong business acumen will only enhance our robust capabilities to deliver products and solutions designed especially for our middle-income consumers and worksite clients."

Story continues

In his new role, Williams will become part of the company's Executive Leadership Group. DeToro has been a member since joining CNO in 2019.

Bios

DeToro has served as CNO's chief actuary since 2019. She has nearly 30 years of experience in insurance, financial services and consulting, having previously held roles at New York Life, Deloitte Consulting, Allstate Financial and EY. She earned her bachelor's degree in mathematics and English literature from Butler University and her MBA with a concentration in finance, managerial economics, strategy and organizational behavior from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

Williams, currently CNO's senior vice president of valuation, joined CNO in 2003. During his time with the company, he has held several roles of increasing responsibility, including vice president of life and annuity valuation and vice president of health valuation and projection. He began his career in 1999 as an actuary with American General Finance. Williams holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics and economics from the University of Southern Indiana. He is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries (FSA), a member of the American Academy of Actuaries (MAAA) and a Chartered Enterprise Risk Analyst (CERA).

About CNO Financial Group

CNO Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE: CNO) secures the future of middle-income America. CNO provides life and health insurance, annuities, financial services, and workforce benefits solutions through our family of brands, including Bankers Life, Colonial Penn, Optavise and Washington National. Our customers work hard to save for the future, and we help protect their health, income and retirement needs with 3.2 million policies and $34 billion in total assets. Our 3,400 associates, 4,600 exclusive agents, and more than 4,000 independent partner agents guide individuals, families, and businesses through a lifetime of financial decisions. For more information, visit CNOinc.com.

Cision

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SOURCE CNO Financial Group, Inc.
New Delhi: Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra asserted that the BJP's strong reaction to her comments about empty envelopes led them to file a complaint against her. She further emphasized that promises such as women's reservation, the OBC caste census, and the ERCP made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi are, in her opinion, devoid of substance and are essentially "empty envelopes."

Priyanka Gandhi on Thursday, in a post on her WhatsApp channel wrote, " The BJP got really mad at something I said, and they took legal action against me. I mentioned seeing on TV that the Prime Minister visited Devnarayan Ji's temple with an envelope, and when it was opened, there were only Rs 21 inside. I also think that the work they do shows that the promises, like women's reservation, the OBC caste census, and ERCP, made by Modi Ji, are all empty because his promises are not fulfilled"

Her remarks came a day after the BJP complained to the Election Commission on Wednesday accusing her of "invoking the personal religious devotion of Prime Minister Modi" to make "false claims" during her poll campaign in Rajasthan and urged it to take action against her.

A BJP delegation, including Union ministers Hardeep Singh Puri and Arjun Ram Meghwal and party leaders Anil Baluni and Om Pathak, submitted a complaint to the EC to take appropriate legal action against the Congress general secretary.

The BJP in its submission to the poll panel said Priyanka Gandhi told a public meeting in Dausa on October 20 that she saw it on TV that when an envelope of donation made by the Prime Minister at a temple was opened, it carried only Rs 21. She added that she saw the news and is not aware if the claim is true or not, the BJP's complaint read.

She then went on to launch a political attack on the BJP saying that "envelopes" are shown to public by the party but nothing is found in them after the elections. The BJP included a video of her remarks in its complaint.

Rajasthan is set to hold assembly elections for 200 seats on November 25, with the vote count scheduled for December 3. The BJP's complaint to the Election Commission stated, "Priyanka Gandhi's statement has breached the fundamental principles of impartial elections by invoking the personal religious beliefs of Prime Minister Narendra Modi."

The complaint also pointed out that there's no evidence to support her statement. The BJP argued that her comments contravened both the Indian Penal Code and the Representation of People Act.

The RP Act speaks against "the publication by a candidate or his agent or by any other person of any statement of fact which is false, and which he either believes to be false or does not believe to be true, in relation to the personal character or conduct of any candidate, or in relation to the candidature, or withdrawal, of any candidate, being a statement reasonably calculated to prejudice the prospects of that candidate's election", the BJP said. It added that the IPC also considers making a false statement in connection with an election an offence when the intent is to affect the poll's result.
A Qatar court has sentenced eight former Indian Navy personnel to death on Thursday. These individuals, who work for the Al Dahra Company, were arrested last year under allegations of espionage. The specific charges made by Qatari authorities against these Indian citizens have not been disclosed to the public. India expressed profound shock at the court's decision and is exploring all available legal avenues in response.

The MEA said it is "deeply shocked" by the verdict and now awaits the detailed judgement. "We have initial information that the Court of First Instance of Qatar has today passed a judgement in the case involving 8 Indian employees of Al Dahra company," the MEA said in an official press release.

"We are deeply shocked by the verdict of the death penalty and are awaiting the detailed judgement. We are in touch with the family members and the legal team, and we are exploring all legal options," it added.

"We attach high importance to this case, and have been following it closely. We will continue to extend all consular and legal assistance. We will also take up the verdict with Qatari authorities," the MEA release said.

"Due to the confidential nature of proceedings of this case, it would not be appropriate to make any further comment at this juncture," it added. The eight Indian nationals have been imprisoned in Qatar since October 2022 and were accused of allegedly spying on a submarine programme.

New Delhi had been granted consular access to the eight Indians and had been working to secure their release. The Indian nationals had their first trial in late March.

Meetu Bhargava, who is the sister of one the officers detained and lives in Gwalior, sought help from the Indian government to bring her brother back.

It's worth noting that Pakistan has similarly detained former Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav on what India believes are false charges of espionage, and this case is currently being heard in an international court.
SRINAGAR: The security forces have killed two infiltrators in an ongoing encounter in the Machil Sector in North Kashmir's Kupwara district, said police on Thursday. Taking to the micro-blogging site 'X' Kashmir Zone Police wrote, "Based on a specific information provided by Kupwara Police, an encounter has started in Machhal sector in which two terrorists have been killed so far." Operation underway. Further details shall follow."

Based on a specific information provided by Kupwara Police, an #encounter has started in Machhal sector in which two #terrorists have been killed so far. Operation underway. Further details shall follow.@JmuKmrPolice  Kashmir Zone Police (@KashmirPolice) October 26, 2023

Earlier, the Indian Army said that it along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir's Kupwara district.

In a post on X, the Srinagar-based Chinar Corps wrote that in a Joint Operation launched by the Indian Army, Jammu Kashmir Police & intelligence agencies on October 26, an infiltration bid has been foiled by alert troops along the LoC in the Kupwara sector.

Its the 13th infiltration bid foiled by the security forces this year in Jammu - a maximum of them were foiled in the Machil sector and Poonch, Rajouri area.

Around 28 infiltrators have been killed including two in today's operation.
New Delhi: The Election Commission of India appoints actor Rajkummar Rao as its National Icon. The 'Roohi' actor signs MOU (Memorandum of understanding) with EC to promote voter education and turnout. Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar formally appointed Rao as a National Icon of the EC on Thursday.

His portrayal in 'Newton' as a principled government clerk who is determined to conduct a free-and-fair election in the Naxal-affected areas of Chhattisgarh, overcoming the cynicism and apathy of a security officer, won accolades. The movie won the National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi and was also Indias nominee for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars.

#WATCH | Delhi | Election Commission of India appoints actor Rajkummar Rao as its National Icon; the actor signs MOU with EC to promote voter education and turnout. pic.twitter.com/JOBgs2qb06  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

Recently, Rajkummar Rao and his wife Patralekha made an appearance at the Rasrang Navratri festival, organised by the Shrikant Eknath Shinde Foundation in Dombivli.

On the work front, Rajkummar is all set to reunite with Janhvi Kapoor, in 'Mr And Mrs Mahi.' Apart from this, the actor is also slated to play the lead role in the inspirational biopic of industrialist Srikant Bolla, titled 'Sri'. He also has 'Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video with Tripti Dimri in his pipeline.
New Delhi: Actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, widely regarded as one of India's most beloved couples, have once again captured the hearts of their fans with their enchanting appearance on the eighth season of 'Koffee with Karan'.

The couple's recent rendezvous on the show has left their admirers in awe, as they witnessed the genuine and endearing connection between Deepika and Ranveer, reaffirming their status as the darlings of the film industry.

The couple is truly one of the most gorgeous-looking couples to exist and as the couple graced the stage of this talk show, they were seen twinning in black outfits looking absolutely stunning and well put together.

When talking about their relationship, Deepika revealed, "I think one of the most special things about our relationship is that we keep the child in each other alive. You know, if someone says summarise what your relationship is, it is on the weekends, because were so private but we also like dancing and letting our hair down on a Saturday night."

"It's just him and I, we have dinner then we pack everyone off, it's just him and me, watching something, then we finish watching that then we play music. And I love music and he loves music and we love sharing our music with each other so now we start this sort of 'juggalbandi' of like who's playing what are the new tracks we found and before we know it, we're dancing just the two of us in our living room till 4 am in the morning! To which Ranveer replies saying, "2 person dance party!"

Fans can't stop hailing this power couple, and a few of them took to their social media handle, and said, "The part where they spoke about how they play music and dance with each other on weekends was so domestic and adorable omg these two."

It is truly one of the sweetest things to have somebody in your life that understands the private aspects, as well as professional and these two have the perfect balance of both.

The couple is popular for making headlines for taking every chance to express their love for each other and this episode has just made fans fall in love with their chemistry all over again.
New Delhi: Deepika Padukone is one of the most popular and successful actresses in Bollywood today. She has starred in many blockbuster films and has won numerous awards for her performances. But her journey to the top has not been without its challenges. Over the years, she has been embroiled in several controversies that have tested her resilience and resolve.

Here Are Five Of Her Most Controversial Moments:

1. The Cleavage

In 2014, Deepika Padukone appeared on the cover of Vogue India magazine wearing a low-cut dress. The cover sparked a controversy, with some people criticizing Deepika for being too revealing and others defending her right to dress however she wanted. Deepika herself responded to the controversy by saying, "I think it's important for women to be able to express themselves however they want. I don't think there's anything wrong with showing some cleavage."

2. My Choice Video

In 2015, Deepika Padukone appeared in a video titled "My Choice," which was released by Vogue India magazine. The video featured several prominent Indian women speaking out about their personal choices, such as whether or not to have children or to marry. Deepika's participation in the video was controversial, with some people criticizing her for promoting promiscuity and others defending her right to speak her mind. Deepika herself responded to the controversy by saying, "I think it's important for women to have the freedom to make their own choices. I don't think there's anything wrong with wanting to have children or not wanting to have children. It's up to each individual woman to decide what's right for her."

3. Padmaavat Controversy

In 2018, Deepika Padukone starred in the film Padmaavat, which was based on the historical novel Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi. The film was controversial before it was even released, with some Hindu groups protesting it on the grounds that it distorted history and disrespected the Hindu religion. The protests escalated after the film's release, with some theatres being vandalized and Deepika and other members of the cast receiving death threats. Deepika herself responded to the controversy by saying, "I'm proud of the film that we've made and I'm not going to be cowed down by these threats."

4. JNU Visit

In 2020, Deepika Padukone visited Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi to stand in solidarity with students who were protesting against a fee hike. The visit was controversial, with some people criticizing Deepika for supporting a university that they perceived to be anti-national. Deepika herself responded to the controversy by saying, "I went to JNU to express my solidarity with the students who were protesting against a fee hike. I believe that everyone has the right to protest and to express their views freely."

5. Mental Health Advocacy

Deepika Padukone has spoken openly about her own struggles with mental health, and she has used her platform to raise awareness about the issue in India. However, her advocacy has also been controversial, with some people criticizing her for talking about mental health in public. Deepika herself has responded to the criticism by saying, "I think it's important to talk about mental health openly so that we can break down the stigma and get people the help they need."

Deepika Padukone may have been part of some controversies, but she is also one of the most successful and respected actresses in Bollywood. She has spoken openly about her own struggles with mental health, and she has used her platform to raise awareness about the issue in India. She is a role model for women everywhere, and she shows that it is possible to be successful and respected without being afraid to speak your mind.
New Delhi: To help users find high-quality information about what they see online, Google has rolled out the "About this image" fact-check tool to English language users globally in Search. According to the tech giant, the tool will give people an easy way to check the credibility and context of images they see online.

With this tool, users will get to discover an images history, metadata and the context users used it with on different sites.

"You can access this tool by clicking on the three dots on an image in Google Images results, or by clicking 'more about this page' in the About this result tool on search results," Google said in a blogpost on Wednesday.

An images history will allow users to see when an image or similar images may have first been seen by Google Search, and whether it was previously published much earlier on other webpages.

With an images metadata, users will be able to see metadata -- when available -- that image creators and publishers have added to an image, including fields that may indicate that it has been generated or enhanced by AI.

Moreover, users can see how an image is used on other pages, and what other sources, like news and fact-checking sites, have to say about it. This information can be helpful to assess the claims being made about an image and to see evidence and perspectives from other sources, according to Google.

Along with the About this image tool, the tech giant also announced that approved journalists and fact-checkers can upload or copy URLs of images to learn more about them within their own tools with 'FaceCheck Claim Search API'.

In June, the company began testing features using the Fact Check Explorer tool, giving fact-checkers the ability to explore fact-checks, references and other details associated with a particular image. In addition, the company is experimenting with generative AI to help with the description of sources, for example, a page of an unfamiliar seller or an unknown blog.
KOLKATA: The Enforcement Directorate is currently conducting searches at eight locations in Kolkata in connection with the multi-crore ration distribution scam in West Bengal, said sources on Thursday. According to reports, the ED raids are underway at the residence of state Minister Jyoti Priya Mallick in the Salt Lake area. Raids are also being conducted at the flat of the minister's personal assistant in the Nagerbazar area.

#WATCH | West Bengal | ED raid underway at the residence of state's minister Jyotipriya Mallick in Salt Lake, Kolkata in connection with an alleged case of corruption in rationing distribution. pic.twitter.com/8wQLgvHAUA  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

Jyoti Priya Mallick, who is currently serving as the states forest minister in the Mamata Banerjee government in West Bengal, earlier held the portfolio of the state's food minister.

Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate recently tracked assets and property worth over Rs 100 crore of Bakibur Rahman, the Kolkata-based businessman, who was arrested recently by the agency in connection with the multi-crore ration distribution scam in West Bengal.
TEL AVIV: In the aftermath of the brutal attack on Israel that occurred on October 7, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) has reported that hundreds of Palestinian terrorists received "specialized combat training" in Iran. This training involved 500 members from both Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and was conducted by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The Wall Street Journal earlier this month claimed that Iran helped to plan Hamas's unprecedented attacks on Israel and gave approval for the assault at a meeting in Lebanon's capital Beirut, according to senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah, another Iran-backed group. Officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran's powerful military, had been working with Hamas since August to devise their multi-prong attack on Israel by land, air and sea, it said.

On October 7, this coordinated attack resulted in the loss of 1,400 lives, primarily civilians. Israel has repeatedly accused Iran of playing a significant role in planning this attack. During the assault, Hamas successfully disabled the high-tech Gaza border fence and crossed into Israel, taking at least 224 people hostage.

Irans Denial

Iran, while welcoming the Hamas assault, denies any involvement in its planning. The report from The Wall Street Journal indicates that Iranian Brig. Gen. Esmail Qaani, the head of the Quds Force, attended the training activities led by the IRGC.

Israeli Response To Iran

IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari directly pointed to Iran for aiding in the attack, including training, supplying weapons, providing money, and technological support. He also mentioned ongoing Iranian support for Hamas in the form of intelligence and online incitement against Israel.

'Hamas An Axis Of Evil'

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu characterized Israel as facing an "axis of evil" led by Iran, Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. He stated that they seek to return the world to the early Middle Ages.

The WSJ reported that Iranian security officials approved the assault at a meeting in Beirut five days before October 7. However, U.S. officials pushed back, saying there was no direct link between Iranian officials and the attack.

US Support To Israel

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Iran's support for groups like Hamas but stated that there was no direct evidence of Iranian involvement in planning or carrying out the attack. Iran's representative to the United Nations rejected these allegations.

US Behind Israeli Action In Gaza: Iran

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused the United States of directing Israel's actions against Hamas and condemned the U.S. as an accomplice. Iran also issued a warning to Israel, suggesting that the region could spiral "out of control" if the conflict in Gaza persists.

This report highlights the complex international dynamics and accusations surrounding the October 7 attack and the involvement of Iran.
TEL AVIV: In a significant development, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) initiated a ''limited ground operation'' in Gaza overnight, deploying infantry forces and tanks in the northern part of the Strip. This "targeted raid" marks a crucial step in the escalating conflict between Israel and the Hamas terror group. It serves as preparation for the forthcoming full-scale ground offensive, which Israeli officials have vowed to execute, reported the Times Of israel.

Several Hamas Sites Hit By IDF

The IDF's operation, led by the Givati infantry brigade and the 162nd Armored Division, was focused on preparing the border area for the "next stages of the war," which refers to the imminent full ground offensive. During the operation, Israeli troops struck numerous terrorists, targeted infrastructure, and disabled anti-tank-guided missile launch positions. The objective was to secure the battlefield for future ground operations.

IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the operation lasted a few hours and that no Israeli soldiers were harmed. He stated that the raid aimed to eliminate terrorists, neutralize threats, dismantle explosives, and neutralize ambushes to facilitate subsequent ground operations.

This ground incursion surpassed the near-daily "localized raids" that Israeli soldiers had been conducting along the border. These localized efforts primarily focused on searching for missing Israelis and clearing explosives left behind by Hamas terrorists since the October 7 attack. Israel has articulated its mission as destroying Hamas's infrastructure and dismantling the organization following the October 7 attacks while minimizing harm to Gaza's civilian population.

In preparation for the next stages of combat, the IDF operated in northern Gaza.



IDF tanks & infantry struck numerous terrorist cells, infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts.



The soldiers have since exited the area and returned to Israeli territory. pic.twitter.com/oMdSDR84rU  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 26, 2023

Rise In Rocket Attack From Hamas





The recent conflict, led by Hamas and other terror groups, saw around 2,500 terrorists infiltrate Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in numerous casualties. Thousands of rockets were launched at Israeli towns and cities during this assault.

Gaza Evacuation

The IDF has been urging Palestinian residents to evacuate the northern Gaza area as it intensifies strikes in preparation for a major ground offensive. In the past day, Israeli jets targeted over 250 sites belonging to Hamas, including infrastructure, command centers, tunnels, and rocket launchers. Navy forces also struck a Hamas surface-to-air missile launch position situated near a mosque and kindergarten.

Rising Casualty

It's important to note that casualty figures are disputed, with Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry reporting 6,546 deaths, mainly civilians, including many children. These figures are difficult to independently verify and are believed to include Hamas terrorists and gunmen killed in both Israel and Gaza.

Delay In Gaza Ground Offensive

The full ground offensive into Gaza has experienced delays due to tactical and strategic considerations. Israel's agreement to temporarily delay the operation was influenced by the United States, which sought additional time to deploy air defence systems and engage in internationally brokered negotiations with Hamas regarding the release of hostages. As Israel prepares for a ground offensive, troops will face the daunting task of navigating Gaza's network of tunnels, booby traps, and urban combat.

PM Confirms Gaza Ground Invasion

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the impending ground incursion while withholding specific details on timing and strategy, emphasizing the need to protect soldiers' lives and citing unanimous decision-making among officials. He stated that the offensive aims to destroy Hamas and secure the release of hostages, referring to members of the terror group as "dead men walking."
Uzbekenergotamir JSC has reached agreements with several Chinese companies aimed at energy development, which includes expanding and updating power grids, as well as creating and launching new power generation capacities, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.

The modernization of energy transportation systems will be carried out jointly with China Electric Power Equipment and Technology, a subsidiary of the State Grid Corporation of China. The parties intend to build new substations and power lines supporting digital technologies in a number of regions.
PORT VILA, VANUATU --News Direct-- King Newswire

CWG Markets, a leading online trading platform, has been honoured with the prestigious "Best Investment Education Broker" award at the 2023 Trading Impact Awards held in Cyprus. This recognition underlines CWG Markets' commitment to providing outstanding investment education services to its clients and its dedication to empowering traders with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the financial markets.

The Trading Impact Awards, held annually, are a highly esteemed event in the world of finance and trading. They acknowledge the contributions and achievements of exceptional organisations and individuals in the trading industry who have made a significant impact on the market and their clients. CWG Markets' win in the "Best Investment Education Broker" category is a testament to its unwavering dedication to provide top-notch educational resources and support to traders.

Isaac Morales, Head of Strategy at CWG Markets, expressed his gratitude upon receiving the award, saying, "It is an honor to be recognized as the Best Investment Education Broker at the 2023 Trading Impact Awards. CWG Markets believes education is the cornerstone of successful trading. Their professionals are committed to provide all clients with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed investment decisions and achieve their financial goals."

CWG Markets: A Beacon of Excellence in Investment Education

CWG Markets has established itself as a pioneer in the industry by offering a wide range of educational resources. These resources include webinars, seminars, tutorials, and market analysis. Their team of experienced professionals and financial experts is dedicated to helping traders of all levels enhance their trading knowledge and improve their strategies.

In addition to its educational initiatives, CWG Markets is known for its cutting-edge trading technology, competitive spreads and a wide range of trading instruments; including forex, commodities, indices and cryptocurrencies. The combination of robust educational support and advanced trading tools has made CWG Markets a preferred choice for traders worldwide.

Story continues

The 2023 Trading Impact Awards panel commended CWG Markets for its continuous efforts to elevate the trading experience for its clients through educational excellence and technological innovation.

For more information about CWG Markets and its award-winning investment education services, please visit https://www.cwgmarkets.com.

About CWG Markets: A Holistic Financial Services Provider

CWG Markets Ltd (VU), authorised and regulated by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC), with registration no. 41694 is a licensed financial dealer authorised to deal in securities. The company's address is 1276, Govant Building, Kumul Highway, PORT VILA, VANUATU.

CWG Markets Ltd is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It is fully authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) with the reference number FRN 785129. As a globally recognised financial services provider, CWG Markets specialises in offering diversified trading options for global traders. The product portfolio of CWG includes forex, stocks, precious metals, indices, futures, and a variety of financial derivatives. This allows this company to meet the diverse needs of traders across a variety of markets.

Education: The Cornerstone of Successful Trading

The recent recognition of CWG Markets as the "Best Investment Education Broker" at the 2023 Trading Impact Awards highlights the critical role that education plays in the world of trading. The mission of CWG Markets is to build a culture of education that is central to successful trading .It is deeply ingrained in the company's philosophy, guiding its commitment to providing its clients with the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed investment decisions.

The online trading industry is complex and dynamic, so traders need to continuously improve their skills and knowledge. Trading success is dependent on education, which CWG Markets has invested heavily in. CWG Markets offers a wide range of services for novices as well as experienced professionals looking to enhance their skills.

Comprehensive Educational Resources

CWG Markets' comprehensive educational resources include a variety of learning tools and formats designed to cater to different educational styles and levels of expertise. The following are some of these resources:

Webinars: The webinars cover a wide range of topics, including the basics of trading as well as advanced trading methods.

Seminars: They host in-person events that allow traders to engage with experts and peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Tutorials: Detailed step-by-step guides and video tutorials that simplify complex concepts.

Market Analysis: The provision of regular market updates and analysis reports is designed to assist traders in staying informed about current market conditions and potential opportunities.

CWG Markets' commitment to education does not stop with these resources alone; their educational offerings are continually updated and expanded to ensure traders have access to the most current and relevant information.

Cutting-edge trading technology :The company's commitment to trading extends beyond education at CWG Markets. The cutting-edge trading technology enables traders to make informed decisions and execute trades efficiently with tools and features. This technology includes user-friendly trading platforms, market data in real-time, and charts.

Diverse Trading Instruments :In addition to their educational programs and technology, CWG Markets offers a wide range of trading instruments. These include:

Forex: Forex is a market in which currency pairs can be traded.

Commodities: Trade in commodities such as precious metals, energy products, and agricultural goods.

Indices: Trade on the performance of multiple companies with access to a wide range of global stock indices.

Cryptocurrencies: Invest in cryptocurrency, including popular digital assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Regulatory Compliance and Trust

CWG Markets' commitment to providing a safe and secure trading environment is evident through its regulatory compliance. In addition to being licensed and regulated by the Vanuatu Financial Services Commission (VFSC) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), the company is incorporated in the United Kingdom. Through these regulatory bodies, CWG Markets ensures that it operates according to industry standards and protects traders' interests.

CWG Markets places great importance on maintaining the highest standards of integrity and security for its clients.

Awards and Recognitions

The "Best Investment Education Broker" award at the 2023 Trading Impact Awards is not the only accolade in CWG Markets' collection. The company has received numerous awards and recognitions for its commitment to excellence in the trading industry. In addition to their dedication to providing high-quality services to clients, these accolades indicate CWGs dedication to excellence.

CWG Markets are proud of their journey and commitment to empowering traders. They have received many awards, including the recently awarded "Best Investment Education Broker" title, which motivates them to keep on striving for excellence.

CWG Markets is at the forefront of online trading due to its investment in cutting-edge technology, trading instruments, and educational resources.

Contact Details

CWG Markets

Will

+60 1-800-81-9380

complaint@cwgmarkets.com

Company Website

https://cwgmarkets.com/

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/cwg-markets-wins-best-investment-education-broker-at-the-2023-trading-influencers-awards-in-cyprus-706825895
New Delhi: A mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine, on Wednesday left at least 22 people dead and 50 to 60 wounded, NBC News said, citing a Lewiston police source. Lewiston is a city in Androscoggin County, about 35 miles (56 km) north of Portland, the biggest city in Maine. The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office shared two images of the shooter.

The Lewiston Maine Police Department showed pictures of the shooter, a bearded man in a long-sleeved shirt and jeans with a rifle ready to fire. The Androscoggin County Sheriffs Office posted two photos of the shooter on Facebook, saying he was on the run. The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston said it was responding to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and working with other hospitals to take patients.

Governor of Maine Janet Mills posted on X (formerly Twitter), I have been briefed and updated on the active shooter situation in Lewiston. I urge all people in the area to follow the directions of State and local officials. I will continue to monitor the situation and remain in close contact with public safety officials.

Maine State police also posted on X, There is an active shooter in Lewiston. We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations. If you see any suspicious activity or individuals please call 911. Updates to follow.
New Delhi: Police in Maine are searching for a man who is suspected of carrying out two mass shootings at a bar and a bowling alley in Lewiston, killing at least 22 people and injuring many more. The man, Robert R. Card, 40, is a former firearms instructor and a U.S. Army reserve member who has a history of mental health problems and violence. Card was spotted on Facebook photos holding what looked like a semi-automatic rifle at one of the crime scenes on Wednesday. He was dressed in a brown hoodie and jeans, and had a beard.

Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck said at a press conference that hundreds of police officers were working across the state to find Card, who is a person of interest in the case.

Troubled Past Of The Suspect

According to law enforcement sources, Card recently confessed to having mental health issues such as hearing voices and threatening to shoot up the National Guard Base in Saco. He was also admitted to a mental health facility for two weeks during Summer 2023 and then released. He has been divorced twice and has three children, and has a record of arrests for domestic violence and other crimes. One of his ex-wives obtained a restraining order against him, Marca reported.

President Biden Offers Federal Support To Maine

President Joe Biden was briefed on the situation and spoke to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden, offering full federal support after the attack, the White House said.

The president expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and praised the first responders for their bravery and professionalism.

The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston said it was responding to a mass casualty, mass shooter event and working with other hospitals to take patients.

Worst Mass Shooting In U.S. Since 2019

If the death toll of 22 is confirmed, the massacre would be the worst in the U.S. since at least August 2019, when a gunman killed 23 people at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle in an anti-Hispanic hate crime, according to the Gun Violence Archive.

The 22 deaths would also match the number of homicides that usually happen in Maine in any year. The state has had between 16 and 29 homicides per year since 2012, according to Maine State Police.

The number of U.S. shootings where four or more people were shot has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic started in 2020, with 647 happening in 2022 and 679 expected to happen in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the archive.

The worst U.S. mass shooting on record is the killing of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel room in 2017.
Karwa Chauth is a beautiful celebration of love and devotion within the institution of marriage. It brings couples closer and strengthens their commitment to one another. Karwa Chauth is an auspicious Hindu festival observed primarily by married women.

It holds a significant place in Indian culture and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. As the moon rises on this special day, it also symbolizes the enduring nature of this age-old tradition, which continues to thrive in the modern world.

But when is Karwa Chauth? Lets check the correct date, history, significance and rituals that are observed on this auspicious day.

Also read: Karwa Chauth: 7 Beautiful Gift Ideas To Surprise Your Wife

Karwa Chauth 2023: Date, Puja Timings

As per Drik Panchang, this year Karwa Chauth falls on November 1.

The Karwa Chauth puja time will last from 5:36 pm to 6:54 pm, and the upavasa (fasting) time will be observed from 6:33 am to 8:15 pm. Meanwhile, the moonrise time is expected to be at 8:15 pm. The Chaturthi tithi will begin on October 31 at 9:30 pm and end on November 1 at 9:19 pm.

Karwa Chauth 2023: City-Wise Puja Timings

New Delhi - 5:36 pm to 6:54 pm

Pune - 6:02 pm to 7:17 pm

Chennai - 5:42 pm to 6:56 pm

Kolkata - 4:59 pm to 6:15 pm

Hyderabad - 5:45 pm to 7:00 pm

Ahmedabad - 6:02 pm to 7:18 pm

Noida - 5:36 pm to 6:53 pm

Jaipur - 5:44 pm to 7:02 pm

Mumbai - 6:05 pm to 7:21 pm

Gurgaon - 5:37 pm to 6:55 pm

Bengaluru - 5:53 pm to 7:07 pm

Chandigarh - 5:35 pm to 6:54 pm

Karwa Chauth 2023: History

The history of Karwa Chauth dates back centuries and is shrouded in myths and legends. One of the most famous stories is that of Queen Veervati, a devoted wife, who underwent a strict fast on this day for her husband's well-being. She was determined to observe the fast even when her husband was away at war. This act of unwavering devotion led to a series of events that ultimately saved her husband's life. This tale and many others like it have contributed to the festival's enduring significance.

Karwa Chauth 2023: Significance

Karwa Chauth is a celebration of the sacred bond between husband and wife. Women observe a day-long fast, refraining from consuming food or water, from sunrise until moonrise. This act symbolizes their deep love and commitment to their husbands and is believed to bring prosperity and long life to the spouse. In return, husbands often express their appreciation by giving gifts to their wives.

Karwa Chauth 2023: Rituals

Sargi: The day begins with a pre-dawn meal called "Sargi," which is prepared by the mother-in-law and includes various delicacies to sustain the fasting woman throughout the day.

Fasting: The fast begins at sunrise and lasts until the moonrise. During this time, women avoid food, water, and even the consumption of any fruit or nut.

Worship: Throughout the day, women engage in prayers and rituals. They worship Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and Karwa (a clay pot) as part of the puja.

Waiting for the Moon: The most anticipated moment of the day is when women break their fast. They eagerly await the appearance of the moon and often look at it through a sieve while offering water to the moon. Once the moon is visible, they break their fast with the first sip of water from the husband's hand.

Gift Exchange: Husbands typically present their wives with gifts as a token of their love and appreciation for their dedication and sacrifice during the fast.

Community Gatherings: Many communities organize Karwa Chauth events, where women come together to celebrate and perform the rituals collectively. This creates a sense of solidarity and togetherness among married women.
Israel has been conducting airstrikes in Gaza for the past 20 days, causing significant economic and military losses for Hamas. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has now entered a new phase. In addition to the aerial attacks, Israel has also prepared for a ground offensive. In today's DNA, Zee News anchor Sourabh Raaj Jain analysed Israel's special plan to attack Hamas.

On Wednesday night, Israel unveiled its plans for a ground assault when Israeli Army tanks entered Northern Gaza. The Israeli Army released a video showing their tanks moving into the Gaza border, accompanied by armored vehicles in their convoy. Through its recent ground offensive in northern Gaza, Israel has unequivocally conveyed its commitment to maintaining the intensity of its conflict with Hamas, sending a clear message to the Arab nations.

This marks a significant development for Israel in its efforts to dismantle Hamas. While previously, the United States had discouraged Israel from conducting ground operations, Israel has now unequivocally signaled its unwavering determination to avenge the loss of its citizens and eradicate Hamas, irrespective of external pressures. Israel has already asked the people in Northern Gaza to evacuate, and they put tanks on the Gaza border. They are ready for a ground attack and called up reserve soldiers.
Jaipur: In a major development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday summoned Vaibhav Gehlot, the son of Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, as part of its ongoing investigation into the paper leak case linked to the Senior Teacher 2nd Grade Competitive Examination, 2022. Vaibhav Gehlot has been asked to depose before the federal agencys office either in Jaipur or in New Delhi on Friday, the sources said.

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot also confirmed that his son has been summoned by the ED through a post on X. "Date 25/10/23 Congress launches guarantees for women of Rajasthan. Date 26/10/23 ED raid on Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Ji Dotasara, Summons to my son Vaibhav Gehlot to appear in ED. Now you can understand what I have been saying that ED's Red Rose is happening inside Rajasthan because BJP does not want that women, farmers and poor in Rajasthan should get the benefit of the guarantees given by Congress", Gehlot posted on X.

 25/10/23



        



 26/10/23



-         ED  



-      ED     



    ,           ED  pic.twitter.com/6hUbmCHCW1  Ashok Gehlot (@ashokgehlot51) October 26, 2023

Simultaneously, the ED is also conducting raids at the official residence of Rajasthan Congress Chief Govind Singh Dotasara in Civil Lines, Jaipur.

The Enforcement Directorate is conducting search operations at nearly a dozen locations in Rajasthan in connection with the paper leak case. The raids are also under at the premises of some Congress leaders, including Rajasthan Congress President Govind Singh Dotasra https://t.co/LmpKtaKuwf  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2023

Kharge Attacks BJP Over Ed Raids

Congress national president Mallikarjun Kharge attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) claiming that as elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, and IT become the real "Panna Pramukh" of the BJP. Taking to 'X', Kharge wrote, "As elections are around the corner, ED, CBI, IT etc. become the real 'Panna Pramukh' of BJP. Seeing its certain defeat in Rajasthan, the Bharatiya Janata Party made its last move! After Chhattisgarh, ED has also started action against Congress leaders entering the assembly election campaign in Rajasthan".

"The dictatorship of the Modi government is fatal for democracy. We will continue to fight against the misuse of agencies, the public will give a befitting reply to the BJP', he added.

ED Raids Ahead Of Assembly Polls

These actions by the ED have taken a political tone, especially as the state is preparing for elections on November 25. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has called for an urgent news conference later today to address this issue, highlighting its potential impact on the political landscape.

ED Raids Across Rajasthan

Notably, the Enforcement Directorate is conducting search operations at nearly a dozen locations in Rajasthan related to the paper leak case. This is part of their comprehensive efforts to uncover the truth in this matter.

Earlier this month, the ED conducted search operations at multiple residential premises of individuals, leading to the seizure of various incriminating documents, sale deeds, electronic devices, and a significant cash amount. These actions were carried out under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

In a separate development, the ED arrested Babulal Katara, a member of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission, and Anil Kumar Meena in connection with the alleged paper leak case in Rajasthan. It was revealed that Katara had leaked the general knowledge question paper of the Senior Teacher Grade II Competitive Examination, 2022, which was scheduled for December 2022. He reportedly sold the leaked papers to Anil Kumar Meena, who, in turn, distributed them to other members of a syndicate for a substantial fee.

Additionally, earlier this year, the ED conducted searches at multiple locations, leading to the recovery of incriminating documents and digital records. The enforcement agency has provisionally attached properties worth approximately Rs 3.11 crore belonging to Babulal Katara, Anil Meena, and others.

This ongoing investigation is a critical issue in the state of Rajasthan and the political landscape, particularly with the upcoming elections just around the corner.
TEL AVIV: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially announced a forthcoming ground invasion of Gaza, despite some delays. Addressing the nation on Wednesday, Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined the objectives of this operation. Netanyahu confirmed that the Israeli ground invasion into the Gaza Strip will serve two primary goals: a) the destruction of Hamas and 2) the safe rescue of all hostages.

He stated that the Chief of Staff and the war cabinet had set a start time for this operation. However, Netanyahu did not disclose specific details regarding when or how the ground invasion would commence. "We are preparing for a ground incursion. I won't specify when, how, or how many. I also won't go into the full range of considerations, many of which are not public knowledge. This is to protect our soldiers' lives," Netanyahu explained. He emphasized that the timing of the ground operation was a unanimous decision.

Netanyahu asserted, "We will exact the full price from Hamas-ISIS for these acts during the ground invasion." He also urged Gazan civilians to move to southern Gaza for their safety. In the wake of Hamas's devastating attacks, Washington has provided significant support, dispatching two carrier groups to the eastern Mediterranean and deploying military advisers.

US Requests Delay In Gaza Ground Offensive

Israel has agreed to a US request to temporarily delay its planned ground incursion into Gaza. This delay is to allow Washington more time to deploy additional air defence systems to safeguard its troops in the region.

The Pentagon is expediting the deployment of approximately a dozen air defence systems to protect troops in Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates from missile attacks. Iran-backed proxies have carried out at least 13 attacks since the onset of the Gaza conflict, resulting in minor injuries to U.S. soldiers.

The US has successfully persuaded Israel to postpone its invasion of Gaza until these systems are in place. This delay could be as soon as later this week. However, the US request is not the only factor influencing Israel's decision, although it is the most pressing concern. Humanitarian aid for Gazan civilians and diplomatic efforts to secure the release of more hostages are also being taken into account.

Israeli Strikes, Blockade In Gaza

In addition to its military campaign, Israel has imposed a near-total blockade on Gaza, while permitting some humanitarian aid to enter from Egypt under a US.-brokered agreement. During Hamas's violent attack on Israel on October 7, more than 220 hostages were abducted and taken to the Gaza Strip. So far, four of these hostages have been freed, and sadly, around 1,400 people, mostly civilians, lost their lives during this assault.

The Biden administration is reportedly concerned that Israel's military objectives in Gaza may not be attainable, leading to questions about the readiness of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for a ground incursion. Furthermore, Washington has urged Israel to consider the broader implications and goals of its operation, while Israeli officials have stated their current focus is on eradicating Hamas.

Hundreds Of Hamas Positions Destroyed

In the 20 days since the October 7 attack, Israel has carried out air strikes against the coastal enclave, targeting Hamas's infrastructure with the aim of eliminating the terror group. Israel asserts that it is minimizing civilian casualties while targeting areas where Hamas operates.

According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, the strikes have resulted in the deaths of 6,546 people, primarily civilians, including many children. It is worth noting that these figures issued by the terror group are not independently verified and may include its own militants, as well as victims of a tragic incident at a Gaza City hospital.

Israel claims to have killed 1,500 Hamas terrorists inside Israel and in Gaza since October 7.
Throughout 2023, the Consulate General of Denmark in New York commemorates the WWII events that saw the flight and rescue of 95% of the Danish Jews, 80 years ago.

NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The 1943 flight and rescue of over 7,000 Danish Jews is a unique testament to civic courage, civil society engagement, and humanity. It represents a light in a very dark time: an occasion where many Danes joined forces to help save their Jewish compatriots. It remains an important part of Denmark's national identity and continues to inspire in Denmark and abroad. However, it is also a complex story; not all Danes came to the rescue and around 500 Danish Jews were captured and deported to Theresienstadt.

Consulate General of Denmark in New York (PRNewsfoto/Consulate General of Denmark in New York)

The events of October 1943 present a unique opportunity to highlight the courage to act, and to reflect on universal ethical questions and dilemmas of responsibility. In the words of Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs Lars Lkke Rasmussen, these "events are as relevant today as ever, reminding us of the ordinary Danes who stood up for and had the courage to help their fellow citizens in times of dire need."

There is still much to learn, and it is especially important to share the story with younger generations in engaging ways. Denmark and the Consulate General of Denmark in New York are involved in a series of cultural and educational initiatives to commemorate the October escape.

New exhibition in New York explores the meaning of courage

15 October, the Museum of Jewish Heritage  A Living Memorial to the Holocaust opened a new, groundbreaking exhibition entitled Courage to Act: Rescue in Denmark. This exhibition brings to life important stories from the events in October 1943, but it also creates a new, interactive platform for talking about these stories with children down to 9 years. Through archival materials, photographs, recordings, testimonials, and other artifacts, it raises the question to the exhibition guests: Do you have the courage to act?

Story continues

Featuring prominently in the exhibition is the story of the Gerda III, one of the small fishing vessels used to transport the Danish Jews to Sweden. This boat alone saved an estimated 300 Jewish lives. The captain, twenty-two-year-old Henny Sinding Sund, will be among the exhibition narrators. The Gerda III was donated to the museum by the Danish Parliament in 1989 and is currently docked at The Mystic Seaport Museum in Connecticut.

Alongside the exhibition, the museum curates a program of events, virtual and in-person, highlighting unique people and perspectives. Stay updated on the activity schedule here.

'Voices in the Void' brings flight story to life

The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken an active role in communicating the October 1943 event to children and young people in partnership with Humanity in Action, Ghetto Fighters' House, the Danish Jewish Museum, and the Danish Ministry for Culture.

A product of that collaboration, Voices in the Void is a newly launched animated movie and educational workshop based on the testimonials from the late Bent Melchior, Chief Rabbi of Denmark, about his and his family's nighttime flight to Sweden. The movie and supporting materials are available in four languages free of charge for middle and high schools everywhere  it is also available for free in the Bloomberg Connects app.

The official commemoration in Denmark

On October 8, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Her Majesty the Queen Margrethe II of Denmark attended a special commemorative performance at the Royal Theater in Copenhagen.

This was followed by the international conference A Light in the Darkness: Lessons from Denmark during the Holocaust, arranged by the Danish Institute for International Studies and the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It took place 9-10 October in the small fishing town and port of Gilleleje which was central to the escape.

The conference examined the best ways to learn from past events  good and bad  and how we can share lessons from the Holocaust with the younger generations. It also touched on the current events in the Middle East, and the continuous importance of compassion, respect for human lives, and the protection of civilians. Among the participants were the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance and other international delegations. Together, they underscored the continuing importance of compassion, respect for human lives, and the protection of civilians.

The Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Danish Jewish Museum will publish a brief research-based, conference-related publication on the October 1943 escape.

About the Consulate General of Denmark in New York

The Consulate General of Denmark in New York is Denmark's official representation in New York and across the East Coast. We provide advisory services and assistance in such areas as consular, commercial, investment, cultural, and press related matters.

For additional info, please contact:

Katinka Friis, Strategic Communications Officer

katpen@um.dk, +1 (347) 203-1739

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/denmark-and-new-york-join-hands-to-commemorate-world-war-ii-flight-and-rescue-of-the-danish-jews-301969079.html

SOURCE Consulate General of Denmark in New York
Deutsche Post (ETR:DHL) has had a rough three months with its share price down 22%. However, stock prices are usually driven by a companys financial performance over the long term, which in this case looks quite promising. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Deutsche Post's ROE today.

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 other words, it is a profitability ratio which measures the rate of return on the capital provided by the company's shareholders.

See our latest analysis for Deutsche Post

How Is ROE Calculated?

Return on equity 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 Deutsche Post is:

21% = 4.7b  23b (Based on the trailing twelve months to June 2023).

The 'return' is the amount earned after tax over the last twelve months. Another way to think of that is that for every 1 worth of equity, the company was able to earn 0.21 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. Depending on how much of these profits the company reinvests or "retains", and how effectively it does so, we are then able to assess a companys earnings growth potential. Generally speaking, other things being equal, firms with a high return on equity and profit retention, have a higher growth rate than firms that dont share these attributes.

A Side By Side comparison of Deutsche Post's Earnings Growth And 21% ROE

Firstly, we acknowledge that Deutsche Post has a significantly high ROE. Even when compared to the industry average of 20% the company's ROE is pretty decent. Given the circumstances, the significant 22% net income growth seen by Deutsche Post over the last five years is not surprising.

Story continues

As a next step, we compared Deutsche Post's net income growth with the industry and found that the company has a similar growth figure when compared with the industry average growth rate of 20% in the same period.

Earnings growth is an important metric to consider when valuing a stock. Its important for an investor to know whether the market has priced in the company's expected earnings growth (or decline). By doing so, they will have an idea if the stock is headed into clear blue waters or if swampy waters await. If you're wondering about Deutsche Post's's valuation, check out this gauge of its price-to-earnings ratio, as compared to its industry.

Is Deutsche Post Using Its Retained Earnings Effectively?

Deutsche Post has a three-year median payout ratio of 43% (where it is retaining 57% of its income) which is not too low or not too high. This suggests that its dividend is well covered, and given the high growth we discussed above, it looks like Deutsche Post is reinvesting its earnings efficiently.

Moreover, Deutsche Post is determined to keep sharing its profits with shareholders which we infer from its long history of paying a dividend for at least ten years. Based on the latest analysts' estimates, we found that the company's future payout ratio over the next three years is expected to hold steady at 48%. As a result, Deutsche Post's ROE is not expected to change by much either, which we inferred from the analyst estimate of 18% for future ROE.

Conclusion

Overall, we are quite pleased with Deutsche Post's performance. In particular, it's great to see that the company is investing heavily into its business and along with a high rate of return, that has resulted in a sizeable growth in its earnings. Having said that, the company's earnings growth is expected to slow down, as forecasted in the current analyst estimates. 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.
Dipharma's logo

The Caronno Pertusella site (Italy) is the second Dipharma manufacturing facility to receive ANVISA certification

MILAN, Italy, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dipharma Francis S.r.l. (Dipharma), a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) and a global manufacturer of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, announced today another new production site of the Group, the facility located in Caronno Pertusella, near Milan (Italy), has received the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification - CBPF (Certificado de Boas Praticas de Fabricacao) - from the Regulatory Authority of Brazil, ANVISA (Agencia Nacional de Vigilancia Sanitaria).

This authorization joins the previous one, obtained in November 2022, by the Dipharma Italian site located in Baranzate (Milan), and certifies Dipharma world-class quality system, which has been widely recognized by regulatory authorities. The Caronno Pertusella facility has been regularly and successfully inspected by the US FDA and the Italian Ministry of Health (AIFA) for more than 50 years.

We are very proud to have reached another regulatory milestone: this second successful completion of the ANVISA certification recognizes another Dipharma site as being in compliance with the GMP requisites as foreseen by the Brazilian requirements, said Jorge Nogueira, Chief Executive Officer of Dipharma Francis S.r.l.  Our Company is committed to providing innovative and competitive solutions to our customers and this achievement once again certifies we are an ideal partner for registering new applications at ANVISA.

About the Dipharma Francis Group

With revenues over 140 million, the Dipharma Group is a global CDMO and a leading manufacturer of APIs and Intermediates, with more than 550 skilled and highly committed employees, 4 cGMP plants, located in the U.S.A. and Italy, plus sales offices in Italy, the U.S.A. and China. The fully equipped R&D Centers develop innovative chemical processes and crystalline forms for the most prominent pharmaceutical companies worldwide. As a third-generation family-owned company, Dipharma has a long history of stability, commitment, and financial solidity. Since 1970, Dipharma has managed to achieve a positive unbroken record of inspections by the main Regulatory Agencies and its cGMP manufacturing sites are equipped to supply quantities from laboratory to industrial scale. Dipharma has the right size and variety of scale-up capabilities to act as a global player and manage processes efficiently, while offering flexibility and agility to promptly solve any challenge. Experience you can trust.

For more information:

Story continues

Paola Clerici

Communication Manager

Dipharma Francis S.r.l.

paola.clerici@dipharma.com

www.dipharma.com




DUBLIN, October 26, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dole plc (NYSE: DOLE) will announce its financial results for the third quarter of 2023 on Thursday, November 16, 2023, prior to the market opening. The companys management will host a webcast and conference call on the same day at 08:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

A presentation to accompany the discussion will be posted on the company website along with a press release and other supplemental financial information.

The live webcast and a replay after the event can be accessed at www.doleplc.com/investor-relations

The conference call can be accessed live by dialling (646) 307-1963 in the US or +353 (1) 582 2023 in Ireland and +44 20 3481 4247 for UK and other international participants. The conference ID is 6406315.

About Dole plc:

A global leader in fresh produce, Dole plc grows, markets, and distributes an extensive variety of fresh fruits and vegetables sourced locally and from around the world. Dedicated and passionate in exceeding our customers requirements in over 75 countries, our goal is to make the world a healthier and a more sustainable place.

Category: Financial

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026769073/en/

Contacts

Investor Contact:

James ORegan, Head of Investor Relations, Dole plc

investors@doleplc.com

+353 1 887 2794

Media Contact:

Brian Bell, Ogilvy

brian.bell@ogilvy.com

+353 87 2436 130
(Bloomberg) -- El Salvador is charging passengers from Africa or India a $1,000 fee, in an apparent bid to curb migration to the US through the Central American country.

Most Read from Bloomberg

People traveling on passports from India or any one of more than 50 African nations will be obliged to pay the fee, El Salvadors port authority said in a statement on its website dated Oct. 20.

The money raised will be used to improve the nations main international airport, the authority added.

El Salvador President Nayib Bukele this week met Brian Nichols, US assistant secretary of state for Western Hemisphere affairs, to discuss efforts to address irregular migration, among other topics. U.S. Customs and Border Patrol encountered a record 3.2 million migrants across the country in fiscal year 2023, which ended in September.

Many migrants from Africa and elsewhere make it to the US via Central America.

Including VAT, the additional cost is $1,130 from travelers from the affected countries. The new fee took effect Oct. 23 and was imposed due to increased use of the countrys main international airport, according to the statement.

Airlines will be required to notify Salvadoran authorities daily of passengers who come from a list of 57 countries in Africa, and India.

Colombian airline Avianca, which is one of the hubs biggest users, began notifying travelers that passengers from the list of countries must pay the mandatory fee before boarding flights to El Salvador.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Element Solutions (ESI) came out with quarterly earnings of $0.36 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.34 per share. This compares to earnings of $0.36 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.

This quarterly report represents an earnings surprise of 5.88%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this specialty chemical and printing products would post earnings of $0.31 per share when it actually produced earnings of $0.31, delivering no surprise.

Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus EPS estimates three times.

Element Solutions , which belongs to the Zacks Chemical - Specialty industry, posted revenues of $599.3 million for the quarter ended September 2023, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 4.03%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $618.5 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.

The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future earnings expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.

Element Solutions shares have added about 0.9% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 10.6%.

What's Next for Element Solutions?

While Element Solutions has underperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?

There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's earnings outlook. Not only does this include current consensus earnings expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.

Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in earnings estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of earnings estimate revisions.

Story continues

Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Element Solutions: mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus EPS estimate is $0.35 on $584.43 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $1.30 on $2.37 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.

Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, Chemical - Specialty is currently in the bottom 13% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.

One other stock from the same industry, Perimeter Solutions, SA (PRM), is yet to report results for the quarter ended September 2023.

This company is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.16 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of +60%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.

Perimeter Solutions, SA's revenues are expected to be $143 million, down 10.9% from the year-ago quarter.

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

Element Solutions Inc. (ESI) : Free Stock Analysis Report

Perimeter Solutions, SA (PRM) : Free Stock Analysis Report

To read this article on Zacks.com click here.

Zacks Investment Research
Evansville-based Old National Bancorp announced Thursday afternoon it had acquired CapStar, which it says will "strengthen (ONB's) recently formed Nashville presence and add several new high-growth markets."

It will add 23 more banking centers to Old National's portfolio, all of them in Tennessee and North Carolina. Seven of the branches are in Nashville, according to a news release from Old National officials.

The acquisition is valued at $344.4 million or $16.64 per share and remains "subject to regulatory approval and the vote of CapStar shareholders," the news release stated.

This partnership with CapStar  one of the most highly respected and successful community banks in Tennessee  is a tremendous cultural fit and a natural extension of our growth strategy, Old National CEO Jim Ryan said in the news release. By establishing a full-service banking presence in Nashville and several other strong Tennessee and North Carolina communities, we can more fully serve our existing Nashville-area clients while also introducing our client- and community-focused brand of banking to the surrounding region.

Old National Bancorp spokesman Rick Vach said the CapStar branches would be re-branded, but "there is no timetable" yet.

Thursday's announcement comes less than two years after Old National Bancorp completed its merger with First Midwest Bancorp, and nine months after the launch of its 1834 division, which the company touted as "a boutique-style banking experience with integrated, customized wealth advisory and investment management services."

Prior to the CapStar acquisition, Old National Bancorp already had more than 250 banking centers in 11 states. The company reported $48.5 billion in assets as of Sept. 1, making it one of the top 30 banks in the United States.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Evansville-based Old National announces merger with Tennessee's CapStar
FILE PHOTO: The logo of Codelco, the world's largest copper producer, is seen at their headquarters in downtown Santiago

By Fabian Cambero

SANTIAGO (Reuters) - Workers for Chile's Codelco will not rule out a strike if the state-owned copper company enacts job cuts to counteract a slump in production, which has reached its lowest point in a quarter century, the head of the company's union association said.

In an interview with Reuters, Amador Pantoja, president of the Federation of Copper Workers (FTC) - which brings together the company's unions - said Codelco, the world's largest copper producer, should focus on getting structural projects, which have faced numerous delays, into production.

"We have said in every tone that today we have an extremely stressed crew," Pantoja said, adding that the number of workers has dropped from 19,000 in 2015 to 12,000. "We cannot allow staff adjustments, we can't afford anymore."

Pantoja said that the unions aren't ruling out any actions to pressure the company against any decisions that would reduce the company's workforce and to force it to hold up agreements.

"We have never ruled out anything because those are the tools we have to defend ourselves," he said.

"We understand that there must be adjustments, but if they want lower staffing, they may encounter surprises and workers are on alert."

Pantoja also complained that the number of contractors has ballooned to 60,000, with 23,000 involved in production, which he says is in violation of previous agreements.

"We are losing the commitments that we already had," Pantoja said, adding that the FTC will host a workshop in the first half of November to present their vision of the situation and solutions for the company.

One of the proposals includes returning maintenance tasks from contractors to employees, which Pantoja says is one of the main bottlenecks for current operations.

The union leader noted that the company's current woes are "cyclical" and that workers have worked with the company before to find solutions.

Story continues

"At one point in the past we froze our salaries, worked with management to reduce costs and came out almost even between the cost of production and the price of copper," Pantoja said.

He stressed that unions will also oppose attempts to privatize or allow private capital to enter Codelco.

"Having our company 100% in the hands of the state is non-negotiable for us," Pantoja said.

(Report by Fabian Andres Cambero; Editing by Alexander Villegas and Diane Craft)
By Stanley Widianto and Fanny Potkin

JAKARTA - TikTok and YouTube are considering joining Meta in applying for e-commerce licenses in Indonesia after Southeast Asia's largest economy banned online shopping on social media platforms, people familiar with the discussions said.

Indonesia's trade ministry banned e-commerce transactions on social media a month ago, saying it sought to protect small and midsize offline merchants and marketplaces, and to ensure users' data was protected.

With a population of more than 270 million, Indonesia generated nearly $52 billion in e-commerce transactions last year, according to data from consultancy Momentum Works.

The law was a particular blow to TikTok, which had pledged in June to invest billions of dollars in Southeast Asia, mainly in Indonesia where it has a base of 125 million users, in a major push to build its e-commerce service TikTok Shop.

The app, owned by Chinese technology giant Bytedance, plans to apply for an e-commerce license and is exploring the best path to do so, three people familiar with the matter told Reuters.

TikTok is holding talks for potential partnerships with local e-commerce players, including GoTo's Tokopedia, while building a standalone TikTok Shop app for Indonesia, the people said.

Until TikTok Shop stopped operations in Indonesia this month, it was delivering about 3 million parcels a day in Indonesia, two sources said.

TikTok said it could neither confirm nor deny it was considering seeking a license. Tokopedia did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Alphabet's YouTube is also planning to apply for an e-commerce license, two sources said, without specifying the type of permit planned. YouTube introduced in the U.S. a shopping service for creators to promote products and brands on the platform.

A spokesperson for the company declined to comment.

TikTok and YouTube's plans to apply for e-commerce permits in Indonesia have not been previously reported.

Story continues

Facebook and Instagram owner Meta Platforms applied this month for a type of e-commerce license allowing the promotion of goods on its platforms but no direct e-commerce transactions, said the Indonesian trade ministry's director general of domestic trade, Isy Karim.

The permit would enable vendors to advertise goods and do market surveys but no in-app transactions, Isy said, adding that Meta is seeking the permit for its Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram apps.

Meta did not respond to requests for comment.

YouTube and TikTok have not approached authorities about applying, Isy said. If TikTok were to apply, he said, it would have to be a domestic unit of the company.

(Reporting by Stanley Widianto and Fanny Potkin; Editing by William Mallard)
Laman Ismayilova

The Azerbaijan State Tourism Agency has discussed the action plan for 20232024 with the Black Sea Economic Cooperation Organization (BSEC).

The virtual meeting of BSEC Working Group on Cooperation in Tourism was held under the chairmanship of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

Deputy Secretary General of the OSCE Dimitrios Rallis and Deputy Chief of Staff of the State Tourism Agency, Head of International Relations Department Jalil Malikov made opening speeches at the meeting.

The meeting participants exchanged views on topical issues related to the tourism sector and joint projects. The sides also approved a report document on the results of the meeting.

The next meeting of the BSEC Working Group on Cooperation on Tourism is scheduled for December, 2023.

The key priorities for BSEC activity in the field of tourism are defined by Goal 8 "Development of Tourism and Protection of Cultural Heritage" of the "BSEC Economic Agenda Towards an Enhanced BSEC Partnership", adopted in 2012.

Its main activities are carried out by the BSEC Working Group on Cooperation in Tourism, established in 1994, in order to promote regional tourism partnership,

A fruitful collaboration with the BSEC Working Group on Culture was developed through the organization of five joint meetings and one conference of the ministers in charge of culture and tourism.
The Citigroup Inc logo is seen at the SIBOS banking and financial conference in Toronto

(Reuters) -The Federal Reserve Board on Thursday ended the enforcement action on Citigroup from 20 15 that required the lender to revamp its risk management practices, sending the shares of the lender up 2.1% in morning trading.

The lender had pleaded guilty to violation of U.S. antitrust laws over manipulation of foreign exchange rates.

"Citigroup has adopted a firm-wide risk management, compliance and audit program designed to identify and manage risks across the consolidated organization," the board said.

Citi did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

(Reporting by Manya Saini and Niket Nishant in Bengaluru; Editing by Arun Koyyur)
The United Auto Workers announced a tentative labor agreement with Ford Motor Co. late Wednesday, and now the proposed contract faces a membership vote.

UAW President Shawn Fain and UAW Vice President Chuck Browning, who led negotiations with Ford during the union's strike against the Detroit Three automakers, posted a 10-minute video online at 8:27 p.m. to make the news official.

"The Stand Up Strike is working," Fain said in the video, referring to the union's strategy of targeting all three Detroit automakers for strikes simultaneously, which had never been done. By closing down additional plants at Stellantis and GM this week, Ford knew what was coming for them Wednesday if we didnt get a deal. That was checkmate.

Top UAW officials told local union leaders Wednesday evening by phone, prior to the public announcement, that the union had a potential deal with Ford to end the strike against the automaker.

What did Ford agree to with the UAW?

The tentative agreement includes an 11% wage increase the first year and totals 25% over a 4-year contract, plus a $5,000 ratification bonus and cost-of-living adjustments, according to two sources familiar with the deal but not authorized to speak publicly.

The gains in the deal are valued at more than four times the gains from the last UAW contract in 2019, and provide more in base wage increases than Ford workers have received in the past 22 years, the UAW said in a news release. The union said the tentative agreement also includes:

 Cumulatively raising the top wage by more than 30% to more than $40 an hour.

 Raising the starting wage by 68% to more than $28 an hour.

 Providing a raise of more than 150% to the lowest-paid workers at Ford over the life of the agreement, with some workers receiving an immediate 85% increase immediately upon ratification.

 Reinstating major benefits lost during the Great Recession, including cost-of-living allowances and a three-year wage progression.

Story continues

 Killing different pay rates, or tiers, for workers.

 Improving retirement benefits for current retirees, those workers with pensions, and those who have 401(k) plans.

 Including the right to strike over plant closures.

The news follows an especially good meeting on Wednesday afternoon between negotiators for the United Auto Workers union and Ford, sources told the Detroit Free Press., part of the USA TODAY Network.

Any potential deal between the union and the automaker is subject to review by local union leaders from around the country elected by the members, called the UAW National Ford Council, who will travel to Detroit prior to a ratification vote. The UAW said the meeting would happen on Sunday, and they would vote to send the tentative agreement to members. If that goes as planned, the UAW will host a special Facebook Live to go through the deal in detail with membership, Fain said.

Local officials will hold meetings and work to answer questions, Fain said on the video. After that, it will be up to the members to vote on the deal.

Browning, a longtime UAW member and negotiator, said, Our union has united in ways we havent seen in years.

He added, Thanks to the power of our members on the picket line and the threat of more strikes to come, we have won the most lucrative agreement, per member, since Walter Reuther was president.

What is UAW?: What to know about the union at the heart of industrywide auto workers strike

Assembly line worker: 'Let's get back to work!'

Ford employs an estimated 57,000 hourly workers represented by the UAW, the largest employer of U.S. union workers in the auto industry.

Ford CEO Jim Farley issued a statement saying he is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement and eager to get 20,000 Ford employees back to work at factories in Michigan and Illinois.

Charmaine Sanderfield, 34, of Canton is a Ford assembly worker at the Michigan Assembly Plant who has walked the picket line in Wayne since the start of the strike. She texted the Free Press, "God is good. Now let's get back to work!"

The tentative agreement comes after a 41-day strike against Ford, General Motors and Stellantis. Fain said Ford workers will be asked to return to work as soon as possible.

The strike will continue against General Motors and Stellantis, as those companies and the UAW had yet to reach an agreement on a new contract.

In recent weeks, the UAW has had members elsewhere ratify a contract with General Dynamics while rejecting a tentative agreement with Mack Trucks.

In 2019, the UAW went on a 40-day strike against GM and announced ratification with a 57% to 43% vote on Oct. 25, 2019. The contract representing some 46,000 workers was decided by 23,389 "yes" votes and 17,501 "no" votes.

Has UAW reached an agreement with GM and Stellantis?

In response to news of a deal, both GM and Stellantis said they remain focused on their negotiations.

GM spokesman David Barnas said, We are working constructively with the UAW to reach a tentative agreement as soon as possible.

Stellantis spokeswoman Jodi Tinson said, "We remain committed to working toward a tentative agreement that gets everyone back to work as soon as possible."

Looking forward to a "pay increase for sure"

A light drizzle fell outside Fords Michigan Assembly Plant on Wednesday night, and pickets stood with UAW signs wrapped in plastic to keep them dry.

News of the tentative agreement was welcomed, even without all of the details.

James Wright, 38, of Brownstown, said hes ready to get back to work. Strike pay of $500 a week doesnt go far enough.

Hes looking forward to a pay increase for sure.

With a 25% wage increase over the life of the contract, Wright said hed be able to afford milk, groceries and gas.

Whitney Majzoub, 48, of Wayne, said she has 25 years in and shes fine with what shes heard in terms of whats in the agreement.

Majzoub is a team leader on the door line and three members of her family all work at the plant, including her son, who has three years in, and her childrens father. Majzoub said she and her son both think the agreement will pass.

Even though much of the early reporting about the talks focused on a higher wage increase, Majzoub indicated negotiations arent an all-or-nothing situation.

You aim high, you meet in the middle, she said, noting that she bought a new house last year and wasnt expecting to be out on strike.

What is the UAW strike strategy?

The UAW's plan for strategic strike targets definitely has moved negotiations, said labor affairs expert Marick Masters, a professor at the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University.

And choosing to expand the strike to include additional GM and Stellantis factories this week clearly had an impact on negotiations, said Marick Masters. Obviously, the devil is always in the details. But they  the UAW and Ford  have found common ground after this difficult struggle. The UAW must believe they have a good contract and union leaders must believe it can get it ratified. I hope that the other two companies will be able to come to agreement with the union as well."

Art Wheaton, director of labor studies at Cornell University in Buffalo, New York, told the Free Press that the tentative agreement indicates Ford will set the Detroit Three pattern.

"Ford has been leading these negotiations ... most of the way," he said. "Fingers crossed, the strikes end and get back to work inside instead of picketing outside in November."

Biden weighs in

President Joe Biden, who visited the UAW picket line, issued a statement in response to the tentative agreement that praised the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation.

"This tentative agreement provides a record raise to auto workers who have sacrificed so much to ensure our iconic Big Three companies can still lead the world in quality and innovation. Ultimately, the final word on this contract will be from the UAW members themselves in the days and weeks to come," he said.

Contact Phoebe Wall Howard: 313-618-1034 or phoward@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @phoebesaid.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: UAW strike update: Details of the tentative deal between Ford, union
Ford (F) and the United Auto Workers (UAW) announced a tentative labor deal is in place, potentially ending a bruising six-week-long contract negotiation.

The UAW said the tentative agreement includes a 25% base wage increase through April 2028 and will cumulatively raise the top wage by over 30% to more than $40 an hour and raise the starting wage by 68%, to over $28 an hour. The lowest-paid workers at Ford will see a raise of more than 150% over the life of the agreement, with some workers receiving an 85% increase immediately upon ratification.

The UAW also revealed COLA (cost-of-living allowance) provisions were reinstated, along with a new three-year wage progression scale (previously it was eight years), as well as the end of wage tiers. The union said it secured gains for workers with pensions and 401(k) plans but did not reveal specifics.

The deal is still subject to approval by UAWs National Ford Council and ratification by a simple majority vote of the UAWs 57,000 Ford workers.

UAW President Shawn Fain and Vice President Chuck Browning discuss reaching a deal with Ford in a Facebook Live video (UAW.com)

"We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the UAW covering our US operations," Ford CEO Jim Farley said in a statement. "We are focused on restarting Kentucky Truck Plant, Michigan Assembly Plant, and Chicago Assembly Plant, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again."

"We won things nobody thought possible," UAW president Shawn Fain said in a statement. "Since the strike began, Ford put 50% more on the table than when we walked out. This agreement sets us on a new path to make things right at Ford, at the Big Three, and across the auto industry."

Wall Street's reaction to the deal was positive, with shares rising in early trading.

"The UAW's big win against Ford suggests a serious improvement in workers' bargaining power, with the deal, if approved, securing an 11% pay bump in the first year of the contract and other gains on pensions and job security," Gavekal Research analyst Tan Kai Xian wrote in a note to clients. "Typically, a deal with one automaker will lead to others following suit."

Story continues

Wedbush analyst Dan Ives echoed those sentiments. "The initial deal based on reports [is] a more balanced deal for Ford vs original one on the table," Ives said in a tweet following reports a deal was struck. Ives believes a deal between the union, GM, and Stellantis will likely get done over the next week.

In terms of next steps, Fain said the UAWs national council for Ford would vote on Sunday to determine whether to send the deal to UAW membership. After informational meetings with local UAW members, the deal would then be sent for a full vote.

Last but not least, Ford will report Q3 earnings Thursday night after the bell. Ford leadership is expected to discuss more details regarding the financial impact of the agreement and any changes to its profit guidance after reaching a tentative deal with the union.

Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram.

For the latest earnings reports and analysis, earnings whispers and expectations, and company earnings news, click here

Read the latest financial and business news from Yahoo Finance
(Bloomberg) -- The United Auto Workers has reached a tentative labor agreement with Ford Motor Co., putting pressure on the carmakers two chief rivals to end a protracted strike that has cost the industry billions of dollars.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Ford agreed to a record 25% hourly wage hike over the life of the contract, which exceeds four years. With cost-of-living allowances, the top wage rate is expected to increase by 33%. The top pay will be over $40 an hour, the union said.

Ford, which has the largest UAW workforce among Detroits three legacy automakers, was the first company to offer a counter-proposal to the union and now is the first carmaker to settle. UAW leadership will vote on the deal Oct. 29. It then must be ratified by Fords 57,000 US hourly workers, a process that could take weeks.

While members have occasionally rejected previous contracts, we expect enthusiastic support for this years agreement given significant union wins, Ryan Brinkman, an analyst at JPMorgan Chase & Co. with an overweight rating on Fords stock, wrote in a research note Thursday. He estimated the deal will likely add $1.5 billion in annual costs to the automaker for the life of the contract, though details remain unclear.

Ford shares rose 2.3% to $11.80 as of 9:35 a.m. in New York. The stock is up about 7% this year.

Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley is expected to discuss the provisional accord with the UAW in a call with analysts Thursday after the company reports third quarter earnings following the close of regular trading.

Pay was one of the last issues to be ironed out during the talks. The union had originally sought a 40% raise and 32-hour work week before reining in its demands. Ford earlier agreed to cost-of-living allowances, converting temp hires to full-time and expediting how long it takes workers to get to the top wage rate.

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We won things nobody thought was possible, said UAW President Shawn Fain Wednesday night in a video posted on X. Since the strike began, Ford put 50% more on the table.

In a statement on Wednesday, President Joe Biden highlighted worker power when congratulating Ford and the union on reaching a deal.

Left out of Wednesdays announcement were details on key issues including wages and benefits at battery plants and Fains initial demand for a 32-hour workweek.

Fain did not address whether the tentative agreement covers Fords four battery plants that are under construction or helps the UAW organize the new electric truck assembly plant the automaker is building in Tennessee.

Ford has sought manufacturing flexibility as it converts factories to building electric vehicles, which have seen sales growth slow. In July, Ford pulled back on it electric vehicle production and cut prices on its F-150 Lightning plug-in pickup truck as it said buyers were suffering EV sticker shock.

Rival Deals

Ford said in a statement it was pleased to reach a deal with the UAW and restart its plants, calling 20,000 Ford employees back to work and shipping our full lineup to our customers again.

General Motors Co. and Stellantis NV are set to meet with the UAW on Thursday and the union hopes they will agree to the same terms, according to people familiar with the talks who werent authorized to speak publicly.

The UAW told Ford workers to go back to work during the ratification process to keep the pressure on Stellantis and GM, said Chuck Browning, the unions top Ford negotiator.

GM and Stellantis said in separate emailed statements that theyre working with the UAW to reach agreements as soon as possible.

Lost Earnings

The strike that began Sept. 15 initially affected one vehicle-assembly plant at each of Detroits legacy automakers. It was the first time all three companies were targeted at once  a bet by Fain to keep them guessing about his next move. Within six weeks, the strike grew to include more than 45,000 workers at eight assembly plants and 38 parts-distribution facilities.

After the UAW launched a surprise walkout at Fords highly profitable Kentucky Truck Plant on Oct. 11, it announced that it was switching up its strategy to call strikes with little notice, which it said was a response to companies slow-walking talks before making any substantial offers.

Two more surprise strikes followed that targeted Stellantis and GM plants. Fain suggested that a bigger strike was in store for Ford if it hadnt reached an agreement.

Ford knew what was coming on Wednesday if we didnt get a deal. That was checkmate, Fain said in the video on X.

What Bloomberg Intelligence Says:

Fords tentative labor agreement with the UAW may increase its costs by more than $900 million in its first year, based on an 11% raise in year one, putting additional pressure on the companys efforts to enhance its mediocre profitability.

 Joel Levington, BI Director of Credit Research

Fords UAW Deal May Cost $900 Million; S&P to Act? Credit React

The strike was estimated to cost GM, Ford and Stellantis about $2.1 billion in lost earnings before interest and taxes as of Oct. 23, according to Deutsche Bank analyst Emmanuel Rosner. GM this week pulled its earnings guidance after the strike muddied its outlook.

--With assistance from Jennifer Jacobs, Robert Combs "Bob" and Anne Cronin.

(Updates with analyst comment in fourth paragraph; Adds opening shares.)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
By Paul Lienert and Nathan Gomes

DETROIT (Reuters) -Ford Motor on Thursday withdrew its full-year results forecast due to "uncertainty" over the pending ratification of its deal with the United Auto Workers (UAW) union, and warned of continued pressure on electric vehicles, sending shares of the company down more than 4% after-hours.

The union and Ford on Wednesday reached a tentative agreement that included a 25% wage hike for 57,000 workers over 4-1/2 years, ending a strike at some of the automaker's biggest factories.

Ford expects the new contract will add $850 to $900 in labor cost per-vehicle, Chief Financial Officer John Lawler said in a briefing on Thursday.

The concessions made by the company are significant, said CFRA research analyst Garrett Nelson in an investor note on Thursday. "They will weigh on margins and affect its competitiveness relative to Tesla and other non-union automakers."

Ford's increasing concern about cooling EV demand follows a decision by rival General Motors earlier this week to postpone a $4 billion electric truck plant in Michigan.

Lawler reiterated that Ford will delay some of its planned multibillion-dollar investment in new EV and battery production capacity, citing "tremendous downward pressure" on prices.

Ford lost an estimated $36,000 on each of the 36,000 electric vehicles it delivered to dealers in the quarter - even more than its estimated $32,350 loss per EV in the second quarter.

During Ford's second-quarter earnings briefing in July, Chief Executive Officer Jim Farley said the company would slow the ramp-up of money-losing EVs, shifting investment to Ford's commercial vehicle unit and citing plans to quadruple sales of gas-electric hybrids over the next five years.

Like many of its competitors, Ford is "trying to find the balance between price, margin and EV demand," Lawler said on Thursday. For consumers, Farley added, "affordability is an issue."

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GM also withdrew its 2023 results forecast earlier this week, and walked back its often-repeated expectation of building 400,000 EVs by mid-2024.

Ford's adjusted third-quarter earnings per share of 39 cents missed the Wall Street average target of 45 cents, according to LSEG data.

Revenue excluding Ford Credit of $41.18 billion was slightly shy of Wall Street forecasts of $41.22 billion, according to LSEG data.

Ford said its EV unit posted a loss in earnings before interest and taxes of $1.3 billion, bringing its nine-month EBIT loss to $3.1 billion. The company had forecast a full-year pretax loss of $4.5 billion for the Ford Model e unit.

The automaker said its EV business was experiencing "sharply compressed" prices and profitability, and said customers were not willing to pay a premium for EVs over comparable combustion and hybrid models.

Ford's third-quarter profit of $1.2 billion compared with a year-earlier loss of $827 million. Last year's loss included a $2.7 billion noncash writedown on Ford's investment in the now-shuttered Argo automated vehicle business.

The automaker said its Ford Pro commercial vehicle business and Ford Blue combustion and hybrid vehicle business both posted higher year-on-year revenue, EBIT and EBIT margins. Vehicle sales to dealers in both units were lower than a year ago.

Adjusted free cash flow fell to $1.2 billion, from $3.6 billion a year earlier.

(Reporting by Paul Lienert in Detroit and Nathan Gomes and Abhijith Ganapavaram in Bengaluru Additional reporting by David Shepardson in WashingtonEditing by Devika Syamnath, Peter Henderson and Matthew Lewis)
Founders Fund partner Jennifer Campbell. Founders Fund

Jennifer Campbell left Coinbase to become a partner at Founders Fund.

She's a rare generalist investor looking for "super audacious ideas" across sectors.

Before Founders Fund, Campbell built and sold a crypto prime brokerage startup.

Founders Fund's newest partner Jennifer Campbell isn't hunting unicorns, or startups worth more than $1 billion. She's looking to "harpoon a whale," she told Insider in her first interview since she joined the legendary venture capital firm this month. And she has a strategy to do so.

"Everyone's really investing in incremental businesses, but Founders Fund is one of the few that's still looking for super audacious ideas," Campbell said in a video call from an office in San Francisco's Presidio neighborhood. "Who is that founder who has a vision for the future and can will it into existence and let's just relentlessly back 'em."

Campbell is an increasingly rare generalist in the world of venture capital. In the last decade, more investors have tried to corner a category or industry because it gives them an inside lane on the most promising startups in their domain. Startup land is now awash with young companies trying to create the next big thing in artificial intelligence, encouraging many other investors to specialize there.

Campbell, who joined from Coinbase, where she worked on its prime brokerage, said keeping a wide aperture will allow her to source and seed truly revolutionary, early-stage companies, from machine learning to biological design.

"I think most venture capitalists now put themselves in a little box, which is, 'I do dev tools, or, 'I do fintech.' And I think that is a fine approach, but I think if you really zoom out on venture, it's [about] what is this new technology that has come along that will change the world? And I think in order to really capture all the value there, you have to be a generalist. Because it's the technology that changes first, and then you want to try to figure out how to package that and figure out how business changes," Campbell said.

Story continues

Many of Founder Fund's most successful investments looked "completely insane for venture at the time that we made them," Erin Gleason, the firm's head of comms, said. It was the first institutional backer of private rocket company SpaceX and defense startup Anduril.

Before Campbell invested at Founders Fund, she got funded by them. Campbell cofounded and led Tagomi, a crypto prime brokerage that gave institutional clients the ability to make large trades. During the crypto bull run, the startup raised $28 million across two rounds of funding from investors including Founders Fund, Paradigm, and Quiet Capital, before Coinbase bought it for $80 million, according to a source familiar with the deal.

Campbell started writing angel investment checks more aggressively after the acquisition. She made early bets on Chroma, a buzzy startup making a key technology for generative AI founders, and Cohere, a $2 billion startup that's becoming a chief rival to OpenAI. Before long, she caught the attention of several funds, including her former backers at Founders Fund, circling the same deals.

"I felt like I always knew I wanted to come back to Founders Fund," Campbell said. "There aren't that many places in the world where oddballs fit in."

Read the original article on Business Insider
Striking hotel workers protest outside the InterContinental hotel in downtown Los Angeles on Aug. 7. On Wednesday, thousands of hotel workers marched through the area, representing the biggest strike action organized by Unite Here Local 11 thus far, with some 50 properties involved. (Mel Melcon / Los Angeles Times)

The Laguna Cliffs Marriott hotel on Wednesday reached a tentative agreement with the union representing hotel workers in Southern California who have been striking on and off for nearly four months.

The deal came on a particularly active day for workers represented by Unite Here Local 11, as the union launched its largest work stoppage yet. Early this week, workers at seven properties kicked off the latest burst of strikes, said union spokesperson Maria Hernandez. On Wednesday, workers at dozens of other hotels across Los Angeles and Orange counties walked off the job, bringing the total number of hotels on strike to about 50.

Thousands of the striking hotel workers flocked to downtown L.A. Wednesday morning, crowding the L.A. Live complex, snaking around the nearby J.W. Marriott and Ritz Carlton, and blocking traffic.

Workers at Laguna Cliffs were among those on strike when the union finalized a tentative agreement with management.

Read more: A third hotel reaches a deal with striking workers as Long Beach, Pasadena employees walk out

The contract will  once it's ratified  raise wages, strengthen pensions and increase investments in healthcare, the union said.

It's the fourth property with which the union has struck a deal. The first was the Westin Bonaventure, which reached a tentative deal just as contracts were set to expire June 30 for more than 15,000 hotel workers at some 60 properties in Los Angeles and Orange counties. The second was the Biltmore in downtown L.A.s financial district, which announced a deal last month. On Tuesday, the union announced its agreement with Loews Hollywood.

The union has declined to give specifics on wages and other economic details of the agreements it has reached thus far, and the contracts have not yet been put to a vote by workers.

The hotel in Dana Point, which is owned by the University of California system through its retirement fund, in July became a center point of allegations of violence against striking workers.

Story continues

We are eager to begin a new chapter at Laguna Cliffs Marriott," said Kurt Petersen, co-president of Unite Here Local 11, in a written statement Wednesday.

Read more: Unionized hotel workers reach deal with biggest employer on eve of July 4 weekend and planned strike

Petersen said the agreement "meets the needs of our members in wages and benefits." Former California Assembly Speaker John A. Perez facilitated the negotiations, he said.

Negotiations held last week between the union and a group of hotels were tense, both sides said.

Keith Grossman, an attorney representing the group of hotel owners and operators, said in a written statement late Tuesday that the union had disingenuously claimed that hotels' proposal would "destroy employees' healthcare."

"Unfortunately, the Union remains unwilling to engage in actual good-faith negotiations, Grossman said. Its inflexibility and insistence on all its demands will not end this labor dispute or get employees what they are asking for  immediate wage increases and a new contract."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Fraser Institute

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Despite common misperceptions, middle-class workers in Denmark pay relatively high taxes for Denmarks large government, notes a new book published today by the Fraser Institute, an independent, non-partisan Canadian public policy think-tank.



Foreign admirers, particularly social democrats, often point to Denmark as a policy model but few seem to appreciate who actually pays for the countrys large welfare state, said noted Danish economist Lars Christensen, co-author of The Free Enterprise Welfare State: A History of Denmarks Unique Economic Model.

Indeed, Denmark has a large welfare state paid for by some of the highest personal income and consumption taxes in the industrialized world.

For example, when they buy goods (e.g. groceries) and services, Danes pay a 25 per cent value-added tax (VAT), similar to Canadas GST, which is the second-highest among high-income countries.

And Denmarks top personal income tax rate (57 per cent), which is among the highest in the world, kicks in at a comparatively low level of incomeroughly US$92,000 compared to US$177,000 in Canada and US$536,000 in the United States. In other words, its not just wealthy Danes who pay the top personal income tax rate.

Average Danes pay the price for their large government sector, said Matthew Mitchell, book co-editor and senior fellow at the Fraser Institute.

When considering Danish-style government, policymakers in Canada should understand the implications for taxpayers, said Steven Globerman, book co-editor and senior fellow at the Fraser Institute.

Finally, according to polling data released in 2023, Canadians overwhelmingly reject higher personal income taxes for the middle class and a higher GST to finance higher levels of government spending.

This book (accompanied by a website) is part of the Fraser Institutes Realities of Socialism series.

To arrange media interviews or for more information, please contact:

Mark Hasiuk, Fraser Institute

(604) 688-0221 ext. 517

mark.hasiuk@fraserinstitute.org

Story continues

Follow the Fraser Institute on Twitter | Become a fan on 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 Institutes independence, it does not accept grants from governments or contracts for research. Visit www.fraserinstitute.org




BOSTON, MA - (NewMediaWire) - October 26, 2023 - TheNewswire - FRX Innovations Inc. (TSXV:FRXI) (FSE:W2A) (OTC:FRXI) ("FRX" or the "Company"), a leader in eco-friendly flame retardant solutions, announced on September 27, 2023 that the Company would be exploring its available strategic alternatives, in this context, the Strategic Sub Committee (Special Committee) of the Company's Board of Directors has on October 13, 2023, formally engaged Echelon Capital Markets a leading Canadian investment banking and capital markets firm, as strategic advisor to assist the Company in exploring a range of strategic options.



In response to recent re-confirmed interest from several arms-length parties, the Special Committee, in consultation with Echelon Capital Markets, will continue to identify and evaluate a full range of strategic alternatives, with the objective to maximize shareholder value, which may include, but is not limited to, a sale of the Company, and any other options that may be available and considered by the Special Committee to be in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.

A combination of growing regulatory changes to legacy flame retardants that negatively impact human and environmental health, the pending elimination of supply of PFAS "Forever Chemicals" as announced by 3M, and industry-validated technical achievements by FRX's patent protected Nofia(R) product line, especially in application with thin polycarbonate plastics, has led to a surge in interest from industry participants across the globe. The growing demand for Nofia(R) currently exceeds the Company's capital resources to fulfill in a timely manner. This heightened interest underscores FRX's noted position in the market and its potential for further growth and innovation.

The Special Committee has not made any decisions related to any strategic alternatives at this time; however, it is the Special Committee's intention to conduct this process on an accelerated basis. Any interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the company should there be interest in participating in the process.

Story continues

There can be no assurance that this exploration process will result in any transaction. The Company will disclose further developments with respect to this process if material or concludes the review of strategic alternatives.

In parallel, recognizing that the Company's Belgian subsidiary was at risk of not meeting certain banking covenants, FRX has proactively reached out to its creditors to negotiate extension arrangements and deferred payment solutions. This includes an ongoing dialogue with its site service provider, which recently served the Belgian subsidiary a notice of enforcement and is in active dialogue to arrive at a mutually agreeable solution.

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.

About FRX Innovations

FRX Innovations is a global manufacturing company, producing a family of environmentally sustainable flame-retardant products that serve several large markets spanning textiles, electronics, automotive, electric vehicles (EV) and medical devices. FRX is led by a team of highly experienced business and technical professionals and is positioned to be a leader in the rapidly changing flame-retardant plastics and additives market in response to new legislation prohibiting Brominated and Perfluoro flame retardant chemicals.

Nofia(R) is a registered trademark of FRX. Nofia(R) products are manufactured at its manufacturing facility on the Port of Antwerp in Belgium, one of the world's largest chemical producing clusters. Nofia Polyphosphonates are produced using sustainable green chemistry principles such as a solvent-free production process, no waste by-products, and near 100% atom efficiency. FRX's portfolio includes an extensive patent estate. FRX, at the forefront of the ESG movement to a greener future, has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the EPA's Environmental Merit Award, the Belgium Business Award for the Environment, and the Flanders Investment of the Year Award. FRX has also been recognized six times on the Global Cleantech 100 list.

For more information about FRX Innovations, please visit www.frx-innovations.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Reader Advisory

Certain statements contained in this news release, including, but not limited to, statements with respect to the Offering, the completion of the Offering, the size, amount and type of securities issued under the Offering, participation in the Offering by related parties and the amount of such participation, among other things, and statements which may contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts, may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, which reflect management's expectations regarding the Company's future growth, results of operations, performance, business prospects and opportunities, are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward- looking statements. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein are reasonable based on information available to it, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct.

Contact Details

FRX Innovations Inc.

Mark Lotz, CFO

+1 604-880-6546

mlotz@frxpolymers.com

FRX Innovations Investor Relations and Media Inquiries

Investor Relations

Carl Desjardins

+1 514 818 04477

ir@frx-innovations.com

Media Inquiries

Joseph Grande

+1 413-684-2463

joe@jgrandecommunications.com
Allied Market Research

The global market for energy storage systems is experiencing growth due to factors such as expansion of renewable energy sector and rise in demand for transport applications.

Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Energy Storage Systems Market by Technology (Pumped Hydro Storage, Battery Energy Storage, Compressed Air Energy Storage, and Flywheel Energy Storage), End User (Residential, Non-residential, and Utilities), and Application (Stationary and Transportation): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20212030." The report indicates that the industry is expected to gather $435.4 billion by the year 2030, having generated a revenue of $188.5 billion in 2020, with a CAGR of 8.3% throughout the forecast timeframe of 2021 to 2030.

Request PDF Brochure: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/134

Factors influencing the growth of the energy storage system market:

The market is mainly propelled by an expansion of the renewable energy sector and a rise in demand for transport applications. But the market is experiencing a downturn due to the high costs of battery energy storage systems. On the contrary, the growth of the EV industry and surge in investments in power infrastructure network is estimated to offer remunerative growth opportunities in the future.

The pumped hydro storage segment to retain its dominant status

In terms of technology, the pumped hydro storage segment contributed to the highest share of more than 95% of the global energy storage systems market in 2020 and is estimated to lead the trail from 2021 to 2030. Supportive government policies and robust demand for pumped hydro storage-based power generation drive the growth of the segment. The battery energy segment, on the other hand, would cite the fastest growth with 20.1% CAGR during the forecast period. The growth is attributed to automotive applications, expansion of renewable energy domain, and rise in demand for batteries from several energy storage applications like grid energy storage.

Story continues

Procure Complete Report (320 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures) @ https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/energy-storage-systems-market

The utilities segment to grab the lions share by 2030

Under the end user category, the utilities segment held the highest share of nearly 90% of the global energy storage systems market revenue in 2020 and is projected to rule the roost from 2021 to 2030. The growth of the segment is driven by factors such as expansion of the EV industry and rise in demand for electricity-based products. Furthermore, the non-residential segment is estimated to display a notable growth with 8.5% CAGR throughout the forecast timeframe. The rise in demand for sustainable energy for numerous applications in industrial and commercial sectors and expansion of heavy industries like automobile plants, chemical plants, sugar and paper mills drive the growth of the segment.

For Purchase Inquiry: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/advanced-energy-storage-systems-market/purchase-options

APAC, projected to sustain its dominance by 2030

On the basis of regional analysis, the Asia-Pacific region garnered the largest market share of more than two-fifths of the overall market revenue in 2020 and is projected to sustain its supremacy throughout the forecast timeframe. The same segment is also projected to showcase a noteworthy growth with 8.5% CAGR from 2021 to 2030. The market across the region is experiencing growth due to the presence of key players and huge consumer base, surge in investment towards energy storage systems, and rapid expansion of the renewable energy domain.





Top market players:

Tata Power

Ionotec Ltd.

Imergy Power Systems

Eguana Technologies







Enerbrax Acumuladores Ltda

Autobat SACI

SK Holdings.

Exide Industries Ltd

SMA Solar Technology AG







Schneider Electric

Trending Reports in Energy Storage Systems Industry:

Compressed Air Energy Storage Market: Global Analysis and Forecast, 2021-2031

Battery Energy Storage Market: Global Analysis and Industry Forecast 2023-2030

Solar Energy Storage Market: Global Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2031





Hydrogen Energy Storage Market: Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027

Thermal Energy Storage Market: Global Opportunity Analysis and Forecast, 2022-2032

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" and "Business Intelligence Solutions." AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domain.

We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.

Contact us:

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Grant Thornton, one of the UAEs largest professional services firms, has opened its new flagship office in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). The new workspace will support the companys double-digit performance trajectory and large client portfolio in the capital.

The grand opening was attended by ADGM Chairman Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, representing a significant milestone that reinforces Grant Thorntons long-standing commitment to its clients in Abu Dhabi and the broader UAE market.

Buoyed by its over 55 years of exceptional service in the UAE, the company now operates four offices across the country, with a head office in Dubai and a workforce of over 500 professionals.

The Abu Dhabi launch comes on the heels of the firm's expanding clientele in the capital, further accelerating its double-digit year-on-year growth over the past five years.

Moreover, opening a new office in ADGM signifies more than just Grant Thorntons corporate growth, it embodies the firms steadfast endeavour to support the economic vision of Abu Dhabi and the UAE by working in alliance with the government, ADGM entities, as well as organisations in the wider commercial segment, particularly, in the financial services and energy sectors.

With the Abu Dhabi office doubling in size three times in the past several years, the new workplace will now serve as the central hub for Grant Thorntons Abu Dhabi based employees providing a full range of advisory, audit, and tax services to its diverse set of clients.

Al Zaabi said: "We congratulate Grant Thornton on the launch of their office in ADGM, and their strong commitment to Abu Dhabi. The presence of a global brand like Grant Thornton marks another solid testament to the thriving business community at ADGM, and the unique ability of the international financial centre to open newer avenues of opportunities and partnerships."

Hisham Farouk, CEO, Grant Thornton UAE, said: "ADGM has long established itself as one of the leading international business hubs catering to an array of global and local corporations in the country."

"Our presence here further bolsters our strategy to work in close collaboration with our expansive clientele in Abu Dhabi while advancing ADGM's contribution to the larger economic agenda of the UAE," he stated.

Samer Hijazi, Head of the Abu Dhabi Office and Head of Financial Services, Grant Thornton UAE, said: "Our Abu Dhabi office and the portfolio of work in the capital has significantly grown in size over the past several years and we have even more ambitious plans looking to the future."

"This new office gives us an opportunity to further consolidate our client relationships and provide an even more enhanced client experience on the back of our ever-expanding suite of services and facilities," he added.
Allied Market Research

The market for global metal forging is driven by factors including industrialization, growth in the energy industry, and industrial expansion in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Metal Forging Market by Raw Material (Carbon Steel, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, and Others), Technique (Open Die Forging, Closed Die Forging, and Ring Forging), and Application (Automotive, Aerospace and Defense, Railway, Industrial Machinery, and Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 20232032." According to the report, the global metal forging industry generated $83.4 billion in 2022 and is registered to garner $168.0 billion by 2032, citing a CAGR of 7.2% from 2023 to 2032.

Download PDF Sample: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/75325

Prime Determinants of Growth:





The market for global metal forging is driven by factors including industrialization, growth in the energy industry, and industrial expansion in the automotive and aerospace sectors. However, the limitations associated with the metal forging process restrict market growth. Moreover, the incorporation of industry 4.0 technologies in the metal forging process and machinery presents lucrative opportunities for the market in the coming years.

Report Coverage & Details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $83.4 Billion Market Size in 2032 $168 Billion CAGR 7.2 % No. of Pages in Report 240 Segments covered Raw material, Technique, Application, and Region Drivers Growth in the Automotive and Aerospace Industry

Growth in the energy sector and industrialization Opportunities Limitations of metal forging Restraints Adoption of Industry 4.0 technology

The carbon steel segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period:

By raw materials, the carbon steel segment accounted for the largest market share in 2022, contributing to more than two-fifths of the global metal forging market revenue, and is expected to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. Carbon steel is widely used for the production of different parts and components of machinery, owing to its high strength and durability. In addition, with the hot forging method, shaping and forming carbon steel is easier. These factors drive the segment. On the other hand, the stainless-steel segment is estimated to witness the highest CAGR of 9.5% from 2023 to 2032. The greater appearance, resistance to corrosion, and high strength of stainless-steel makes it a favorable material in the construction sector, automotive industry, machinery manufacturing, and others.



Buy This Research Report (240 Pages PDF with Insights, Charts, Tables, Figures): https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/7f031f0f6cd84374a8f07fed885261a0

The open die forging segment to maintain its dominance in term of revenue during forecast period:

Based on technique, the open die segment dominated the market with the highest market share in 2022, accounting for more than half of the global metal forging market and is estimated to maintain its lead in terms of revenue during forecast period. Simple-shaped components like flats, rounds, sleeves, hubs, blocks, cylinders, hexes, discs, shafts, and other custom shapes can be formed using open die forging. The size and weight of the workpiece are not significant constraints because it uses an open die. However, the ring forging segment is expected to portray the fastest CAGR of 8.7% from 2023 to 2032. The rise in demand for machines, robotics, valves, bearings, clutches, couplings, drives, flanges, gears, and glass-lined reactors is driving the growth of ring forging.



The automotive segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period:

on the basis of application, the automotive segment accounted for the largest share in 2022, contributing to more than two-fifths of the global metal forging market revenue, and is anticipated to maintain its dominance during the forecast period. Rising disposable income, increasing urban population, and expanding boundaries of cities are driving the growth of the segment. However, the industrial machinery segment is estimated to exhibit the fastest CAGR of 10.0% from 2023 to 2032. This is attributed to rising industrialization across the world, especially in emerging economies, which is driving the demand for industrial machinery.



Asia-Pacific to hold majority of the market share in 2032:

Region-wise, Asia-Pacific held the highest market share in terms of revenue in 2022, accounting for nearly half of the global metal forging market revenue and is likely to dominate the market by 2032. The same region is also projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 8.0% during the forecast period. This growth is attributed to the growth of the industrial sector and the extensive economic growth of the region. Moreover, governments in India, China, Vietnam, and Indonesia have introduced various favorable guidelines to help their domestic industries grow.



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Leading Market Players:

Bruck GmbH

ATI Inc.

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.

ELLWOOD Group, Inc.

ASAHI FORGE CORPORATION

Trenton Forging

NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (Precision Castparts Corp.)

Bharat Forge Limited

Canada Forgings Inc.

Story continues

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global metal forging market. These players have adopted different strategies, such as acquisition, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, new product launches, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant positions in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolios, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.





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DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Global Nuclear Power Industry - Forecast and Analysis 2023" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

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The global nuclear power industry has been a significant player in the energy sector, providing a substantial portion of the world's electricity for several decades. Despite facing various challenges, it has remained a critical source of clean and reliable power. As of 2021, the worldwide nuclear power capacity stood at approximately 398 gigawatts (GW), supplied by 442 operating reactors across 30 countries.

In terms of market statistics, the Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a major hub for nuclear power, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea leading the way. China, in particular, has significantly expanded its nuclear power capacity and continues to invest heavily in new projects. As of 2021, it had 50 operating reactors, with a total capacity of around 51 GW.

Europe also plays a significant role in the global nuclear power industry, with countries like France, Russia, and the United Kingdom being prominent players. France, known for its strong reliance on nuclear energy, boasts the highest share of nuclear power in its electricity generation mix. It operates 56 reactors, contributing to a capacity of approximately 63 GW. In North America, the United States has the highest number of operational reactors, standing at 93 with a capacity of approximately 98 GW. However, the country's nuclear industry has faced challenges in recent years, including competition from natural gas and renewable energy sources, leading to the closure of several older reactors. Nevertheless, the US continues to explore options for new nuclear projects, including advanced reactor designs.

The global nuclear power industry has witnessed both expansions and contractions in recent years. While some countries have embraced nuclear energy as a low-carbon solution to meet their electricity needs, others have scaled back or phased out their nuclear programs due to safety concerns and public opinion. Additionally, the industry faces challenges related to high construction costs, regulatory hurdles, and the safe disposal of radioactive waste.

Story continues

The analyst presents a comprehensive research report titled "Global Nuclear Power Industry - Forecast and Analysis 2023," delving into a detailed examination of the worldwide nuclear power sector. The report commences with an extensive analysis of industry statistics, encompassing an industry overview, historical industry statistics, and industry segmentation. Notably, we investigate nuclear power's price trends, prevailing industry trends, the trajectory of nuclear power capacity expansion, additions of new capacity, and the public sentiment towards nuclear energy.

The study employs a robust analytical framework, including a SWOT analysis, Porter's Five Forces Strategy analysis, and a PEST analysis of the Global Nuclear Power Industry, thereby providing a well-rounded evaluation of the industry's competitive landscape and external influences. Furthermore, the report thoroughly examines the economics of nuclear power, incorporating capital costs, operational costs, system costs, and external costs. Additionally, a comparative analysis of the economic viability of nuclear power against other electricity generation methods is presented, alongside an assessment of investment incentives for nuclear power.

Recognizing the significance of climate change in the energy sector, the report investigates the global climate change implications and the impact of nuclear power in mitigating environmental concerns. Concurrently, it addresses the challenges and barriers that pose obstacles to the nuclear power industry.

Furthermore, a forward-looking perspective is provided, outlining the industry outlook until the years 2026 and 2030. This includes a comparative assessment of nuclear power against alternative power resources, enabling readers to make informed decisions in light of future energy demands.

Continuing our research, we conduct an in-depth analysis of key nuclear power markets worldwide, encompassing prominent regions such as Japan, China, India, the US, Ukraine, Russia, and more. Each market is subjected to a rigorous examination, providing valuable insights into its nuclear industry.

For every market, we present a comprehensive overview, covering nuclear capacity, fuel cycle details, and the regulatory framework governing the industry. Additionally, we delve into crucial aspects of nuclear waste management and nuclear non-proliferation, highlighting the responsible and secure handling of nuclear materials.

Furthermore, we recognize the significance of industry players in shaping the global nuclear power landscape. To that end, we thoroughly analyze the leading entities in the Global Nuclear Power Industry, providing detailed business profiles, financial analyses, and comprehensive SWOT assessments.

This includes a thorough evaluation of both nuclear power companies and nuclear power utilities, offering valuable perspectives on their respective strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and potential threats. These findings offer invaluable insights for stakeholders seeking to make informed decisions and stay ahead in the evolving nuclear power sector.

Key Topics Covered:

A. Executive Summary

B. Global Nuclear Power Industry Analysis

B.1 Industry Overview

B.2 Industry Statistics

B.3 Industry Segmentation

B.4 Industry Trends

B.5 Addition of New Nuclear Power Capacity

B.5.1 Increased Nuclear Capacity

B.5.2 New Nuclear Plant Construction

B.5.3 Plant Life Extension and Decommissions

B.6 Public Acceptance of Nuclear Power

C. SWOT Framework Analysis of the Global Nuclear Power Industry

C.1 Strengths to Leverage

C.2 Weaknesses to Address

C.3 Opportunities to Exploit

C.4 Threats to Mitigate

D. Porter's Five Forces Strategy Analysis of the Global Nuclear Power Industry

D.1 Introduction

D.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers

D.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers

D.4 Competitive Rivalry in the Industry

D.5 Threat of New Entrants

D.6 Threat of Substitutes

E. PEST Framework Analysis of the Global Nuclear Power Industry

E.1 Political Factors

E.2 Economic Factors

E.3 Social Factors

E.4 Technological Factors

F. Economics of Nuclear Power Analysis

F.1 Capital Cost

F.2 Operation Costs

F.3 System Costs

F.4 External Costs

F.5 Economics of Nuclear Power vs. Other Forms of Electricity Generation

F.6 Cost Competitiveness in the Future

F.7 Investment Incentives

G. Global Climate Change & the Role of Nuclear Power

H. Challenges Facing the Nuclear Power Industry

H.1 Air Pollution

H.2 Health Effects

H.3 Financial Challenges

H.4 Nuclear Safety

H.5 Nuclear Proliferation

H.6 Regulatory Barriers

H.7 Water Pollution

H.8 Other Challenges

I. Regulatory Landscape of the Global Nuclear Power Industry

J. Comparison of Nuclear Power with Other Power Sources

K. Future Outlook of the Global Nuclear Power Industry

L. Analysis of Key Nuclear Power Markets Worldwide

L.1 Argentina

L.2 Armenia

L.3 Brazil

L.4 China

L.5 Egypt

L.6 France

L.7 Germany

L.8 India

L.9 Iran

L.10 Italy

L.11 Japan

L.12 Jordan

L.13 Kazakhstan

L.14 Kyrgyzstan

L.15 Lithuania

L.16 Mexico

L.17 Namibia

L.18 Niger

L.19 North Korea

L.20 Pakistan

L.21 Romania

L.22 Russia

L.23 Saudi Arabia

L.24 South Africa

L.25 South Korea

L.26 Taiwan

L.27 Tajikistan

L.28 Ukraine

L.29 United Arab Emirates

L.30 United Kingdom

L.31 United States

L.32 Uzbekistan

L.33 Vietnam

M. Key Players in the Global Nuclear Power Industry

M.1 Alstom SA

M.2 Ameren Corporation

M.3 American Electric Power Company

M.4 Bharat Heavy Electrical Limited

M.5 Cameco Corporation

M.6 Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA (Eletrobras)

M.7 China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC)

M.8 Chubu Electric Power Company (Chuden)

M.9 Comision Federal de Electricidad (CFE)

M.10 Dominion Energy

M.11 Dongfang Electric Corporation

M.12 Duke Energy Corporation

M.13 E.ON SE

M.14 EDF Electricite de France SA

M.15 Electrabel SA

M.16 Enbw Energie Baden Wuerttemberg AG

M.17 Endesa SA

M.18 Enel

M.19 Energoatom

M.20 Engie

M.21 Entergy Corporation

M.22 Eskom Holdings

M.23 Exelon Corporation

M.24 General Electric

M.25 Hitachi

M.26 Iberdrola SA

M.27 Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO)

M.28 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd

M.29 Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL)

M.30 Nucleoelectrica Argentina

M.31 Orano SA

M.32 RWE AG

M.33 Siemens AG

M.34 State Grid Corporation of China

M.35 Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO)

M.36 Toshiba

M.37 Vattenfall

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/zb28m6

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ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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SOURCE Research and Markets
SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (B3: GOLL4 and NYSE: GOL) ("GOL" or "Company").

- Commercial partnership initiated in 2014 to be extended for 10 years, with reciprocal exclusivity on traffic flows between Europe and Brazil.

- Increased commercial cooperation providing improved connectivity, with 125+ destinations covered in Europe and Brazil, covering 99% of demand between the two areas.

- Partnership also covers increased maintenance cooperation, with Air France Industries KLM E&M expanding its support to GOL's CFM56 and LEAP engines.

Air France-KLM and GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes today announced that they have signed an agreement to extend and enhance their commercial partnership for the next 10 years. Under the terms of this agreement, both parties will grant each other exclusivity on routes between Europe and Brazil and enhance their commercial cooperation. This will result in better connectivity, improved customer experience and more benefits for their respective customers.

Initially introduced in 2014 for a period of 5 years, the commercial partnership between Air France-KLM and GOL had already been renewed in 2019. It covers over 99% of the demand between Brazil and Europe and today one out of every five passengers traveling to Brazil with Air France and KLM connects to a GOL flight. In total, over two million passengers have benefited from the partnership since its introduction.

As part of this renewed partnership, Air France, KLM and GOL will continue investing to further improve their customers' experience and create an even more seamless product. Customers will benefit from an optimized network between Europe and Brazil, spanning over 80 European destinations, 45 destinations in Brazil, and in the future, new destinations across Latin America. The agreement additionally includes expanded code-sharing, enhanced joint sales activities, and more benefits for customers via Air France-KLM's Flying Blue and GOL's SMILES frequent flyer programs.

Story continues

The enhanced collaboration includes an ambitious expansion of the existing maintenance support by Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFIKLME&M) to GOL's CFM56 and LEAP engines.

Benjamin Smith, CEO Air France KLM, stated: "South America, and particularly Brazil, is one of the most strategic markets for Air France-KLM. The historical partnership between Air France-KLM and GOL has been instrumental in allowing us to provide our customers with a comprehensive and broad value proposition in the region. Building on what we've already achieved, we are very pleased to extend and deepen this exclusive partnership for 10 more years. This new agreement will allow us to implement the necessary structural enhancements to ensure Air France-KLM and GOL's leadership position between Brazil and Europe."

Celso Ferrer, GOL CEO: "Our partnership with Air France-KLM has provided countless enhancements and benefits for all of our customers and is based on reciprocal trust and admiration of both companies. We are proud to celebrate another decade of partnership, and I believe it crowns a long and successful history by including key elements such as the credit line for engine overhauls. I reinforce that GOL is deeply committed to support and help to strengthen the Brazil-Europe corridor, and we have no doubt Air France-KLM is the best partner to achieve that."

Optimized connections beyond Air France-KLM and GOL's respective hubs in Europe and Brazil

Air France and KLM passengers can connect on GOL flights beyond Sao Paulo (GRU), Rio de Janeiro (GIG) and Fortaleza (FOR). GOL passengers also have access to Air France and KLM's worldwide networks beyond their Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Amsterdam Schiphol airport hubs.

During the winter 23 season, Air France operates 24 weekly flights to Brazil (14 x Sao Paulo, 7 x Rio de Janeiro and 3 x Fortaleza) while KLM operates 14 weekly flights to Brazil (7 x Sao Paulo, 7 x Rio de Janeiro).

About Air France-KLM

A global player with a strong European base, the Air France-KLM Group's main areas of business are passenger transport, cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance. Air France-KLM is a leading airline Group in terms of international traffic on departure from Europe. It offers its customers access to a worldwide network, covering over 300 destinations thanks to Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Transavia, mainly from its hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol.

Its Flying Blue frequent flyer programme is one of the leaders in Europe with over 20 million members. Together with its partners Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM operates the largest transatlantic joint venture, with more than 340 daily flights in 2019.

Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam, the alliance dedicated to providing passengers with a more seamless travel experience at every step of their journey 19 member airlines working together across an extensive global network.

Recognized for 19 years as an industry leader in sustainable development, the Air France-KLM Group is determined to accelerate the transition to more sustainable aviation.

Air France-KLM press office: + 33 (0)1 41 56 56 00  www.airfranceklm.com - @AirFranceKLM

GOL Investor Relations

ir@voegol.com.br

www.voegol.com.br/ir

+55 (11) 2128-470

About GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. ("GOL")

GOL is the largest airline in Brazil. leader in the corporate and leisure segments. Since it was founded in 2001. the Company has the lowest unit cost in Latin America. democratizing air transportation. The Company has alliances with American Airlines and Air France-KLM and makes available several codeshares and interline agreements available to Customers. bringing more convenience and simple connections to any place served by these partnerships. With the purpose of "Being the First for All". GOL offers the best travel experience to its passengers. including: the largest number of seats and more space between seats; the greatest platform with internet. movies and live TV; and the best frequent-flyer program. Smiles. In cargo transportation. Gollog delivers orders to different regions in Brazil and abroad. The Company has a team of 13,800 highly qualified aviation professionals focused on Safety. GOL's #1 value. and operates a standardized fleet of 143 Boeing 737 aircraft. The Company's shares are traded on the NYSE (GOL) and the B3 (GOLL4). For further information. go to www.voegol.com.br/ir.

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SOURCE GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.
(Bloomberg) -- Nvidia Corp. and a Google venture fund have joined a seed round of funding for a startup that helps developers squeeze more computing power out of specialized processors used to train AI, potentially alleviating a major logjam for the burgeoning field.

Most Read from Bloomberg

CentML, which builds software to help machine learning systems work more efficiently, raised $27 million from investors including Googles Gradient Ventures and Radical Ventures. Deloitte Ventures and Thomson Reuters Ventures also took part in the financing, the startup said in a statement.

The Toronto-headquartered startup aims to address one of the biggest bottlenecks in AI development, a shortage of the graphic processor units from Nvidia and its rivals that process the enormous amounts of data required to train and run AI systems. Supply could remain tight well into 2024 as prices skyrocket, analysts predict.

Big-name backers are betting on young firms like CentML to find innovative ways around those constraints.

CentML was established last year by Gennady Pekhimenko, a PhD in computer science from Carnegie Mellon University whos now an associate professor at the University of Torontos computer science department. Pekhimenko and three others built software to help predict the time taken to process tasks using different kinds of hardware. It monitors systems to pinpoint areas of underutilization  analyzing cost, power consumption and emissions  then automatically distributes tasks to try and speed them up.

That should in turn help maximize chip use and shave costs. The average utilization for GPUs across the market stands at around 30%, CentML said, citing research its conducted. Its technology can quicken systems by as much as 8X, which has profound impact for our customers, said Pekhimenko, also the startups chief executive officer.

Story continues

His startup now plans to open an office in Silicon Valley to attract talent. Pekhimenko aims to double the size of its workforce, now about 30, over the next 12 months.

The size of AI models grew 10 times annually in the last decade, and the gap between compute and the size of the model is growing, he said in an interview. Theres a desperation for compute, and chipmakers cant supply it fast enough.

Investment into AI is surging globally. According to PitchBook data compiled for Bloomberg, the value of funding for AI companies climbed 27% globally in the third quarter compared to the year before. Thats even as overall deals for startups fell 31% from a year earlier to hit $73 billion worldwide.

(Updates with AI funding in final paragraph. A previous version of this story corrected the founders title in the fifth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Chris DeBartolo to lead new custom window treatments consultation business in Bentonville

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Gotcha Covered, a leader in custom window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada, welcomes Chris DeBartolo to the franchise family. He is the owner and operator of Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, the first location in Arkansas.

Chris DeBartolo is the owner and operator of Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, the first location in Arkansas.

With an emphasis on end-to-end consultations, Gotcha Covered of Bentonville will provide the best in soft and hard window treatments to homeowners in Northwest Arkansas by offering a variety of blinds, draperies, smart solutions and much more.

"We are excited to have our first location in the state of Arkansas," said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. "This is an opportunity to show the homeowners in Northwest Arkansas the importance of having a window treatment partner they can turn to when they redecorate or renovate their homes. We are confident that Chris (DeBartolo) will be an excellent representative of the Gotcha Covered family."

Prior to joining Gotcha Covered, DeBartolo spent 16 years in the medical field as an ophthalmic surgical scrub and LASIK technician. It was his desire to control his own success that encouraged him to join the franchise.

"I wanted the opportunity to control my own future, build a strong relationship with my community and live a more flexible lifestyle," said DeBartolo. "I chose franchising because it provided an opportunity to buy into an existing business model that had a proven track record with an excellent support system."

"What I love most about the window treatment business is the ability to meet with friends and neighbors to assist them in achieving their vision to elevate the look of their home. Gotcha Covered gives me an avenue to do that. I'm proud to be part of a quality recognized brand associated with exceptional customer service and a superb reputation."

Story continues

Adding 40 new franchise locations in 2022, Gotcha Covered currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada. The franchise has been operating under the Gotcha Covered name since 2009.

To schedule an appointment with Gotcha Covered of Bentonville, visit https://www.gotchacovered.com/bentonville/.

About Gotcha Covered

Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer's specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 155 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

hripley@ripleypr.com

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HOLLAND TWP.  A legal fight is underway over whether a proposal to make Michigans minimum wage $15 an hour will make the ballot in November 2024.

One Fair Wage, the group behind the movement, gathered 610,000 signatures for the petition to raise the states minimum wage. The Board of State Canvassers deadlocked Friday in a 2-2 vote along party lines over certifying them.

Saru Jayaraman, the president of One Fair Wage, told WOOD TV-8 on Monday the group plans to appeal the decision to the Michigan Court of Appeals. She called it a partisan, outrageously political move.

A legal fight is underway over whether a proposal to make Michigans minimum wage $15 an hour will make the ballot in November 2024.

What are they so afraid of? Jayaraman said. Why dont they want this to go to the voters? Its because they know this is so overwhelmingly popular across Michigan that they know were going to win.

But the possibility is raising alarm bells for restaurant owners like Mike Karas, owner of Salt and Pepper Grill and Pub in Holland Township for 14 years.

I promise you, you will see restaurants go out of business, Karas said. Theres no way around it.

Karas estimated the minimum wage increase would cost his business around $60,000 to $70,000 per year.

Why are we trying to fix something that isnt broken? he said. Thats my reaction. Its perfectly fine. My staff is happy.

Karas has 65 employees. If the minimum wage proposal goes through, he predicts he'll have to lay off up to 25 percent of them.

Labor has gone up because of COVID, he said. Supply and demand ... because of COVID. Now were throwing this on top of it. Im not playing the COVID card, but its absolutely real.

Its already hard enough for a restaurant, he continued. We run on really tight margins.

Minimum wage is currently $10.10 per hour. Under the proposal, it would increase by a dollar each year before topping off at $15 in 2027.

Karas said that increase will be passed along to restaurant customers on their final bill.

Every year that moves up, prices are going to have to move up, Karas said. Sure, we can tighten our belt in other places, but it also has to come from the consumer. The consumer is whos going to get hurt. The consumer is always who gets hurt.

Story continues

His bigger concern, though, is the elimination of the tipped wage. Currently, tipped workers get $3.84 per hour, but end up making much more. If the proposal passes, the tipped wage would be eliminated by 2028. Those workers would instead make at least the $15 per hour minimum wage.

My staff never makes less than probably $30, $35 an hour because of tips, Karas said. The hosts probably make $18, $20 an hour minimum every shift because of tips. If thats eliminated, why would they stay?

Karas conceded every restaurant is different; not every employee makes that much.

The problem is, for me and a lot of my restaurant friends, were all being lumped together, Karas said. Im 100 percent happy to see other people make $15, $20, $25 an hour, thats great. But its going to come at the cost of changing all the other restaurants that arent having a problem getting their staff paid properly.

Jayaraman said most Michigan restaurant workers dont make close to $30 an hour in tips. She argued that wages are wildly out of sync with what they need.

Most tipped workers in Michigan are struggling to make ends meet, she said.

Jayaraman said tens of thousands of workers left Michigans restaurant industry since the pandemic because of low wages. She argued a higher minimum wage is in restaurants best interest to get staff back.

Subscribe: Get all your breaking news and unlimited access to our local coverage

This is critical not only for families that rely on these wages to feed their children, to pay their bills, to consume, to eat out, to support the restaurant industry, she said. Its also important because these restaurants are not going to have enough staff going forward unless they pay enough to allow these workers to come back.

This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: Holland restauranteur: More restaurants will close if minimum wage proposal passes
Hybrid Software Group

PRESS RELEASE - REGULATED INFORMATION

HYBRID SOFTWARE GROUP RELEASES Q3 RESULTS

Cambridge (UK) 26 October 2023 (08.00 CEST)  Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) provides a trading update for the nine months ended 30 September 2023.

CEO Mike Rottenborn comments, The third quarter of 2023 was marked by overall consistent performance compared to the same period of 2022, with consolidated revenues up 3% and yielding a 19% EBITDA margin. Last years third quarter EBITDA was very favourably impacted by the one-time sale of an unused asset (approximately 69,000 IPv4 internet addresses) for a net amount of 3.3 million. On an equivalent basis, EBITDA for the quarter declined to 1.9 million from 2.3 million a year ago.

In September the company attended Labelexpo Europe in Brussels, Belgium and successfully launched several significant products for label and packaging production. A major new OEM also introduced SmartDFE, an integrated Digital Front End for digital printing devices built with leading-edge technology from across Hybrid Software Group, at Labelexpo. Q4 will bring additional exhibitions in the USA and China to further promote our products.

Although business conditions remain challenging in many of our markets, we have a tight control on costs and strong products to insure profitable growth now and in the future.

Financial highlights for the nine months ended 30 September 2023

The following information is unaudited.

For the quarter ended 30 September 2023

Revenue for the period was 11.65 million (2021: 11.29 million)

EBITDA for the period was 1.95 million, or 17% of revenue (2021: 4.58 million, 41% of revenue, including 3.3 million of non-recurring revenue from the IPv4 internet address sale)

For the nine months ended 30 September 2023

Revenue for the period was 36.54 million (2021: 34.73 million)

EBITDA for the period was 5.66 million, or 15% of revenue (2021: 9.20 million, 26% of revenue, including 3.3 million of non-recurring revenue from the IPv4 internet address sale)

Story continues

Segment analysis

The following tables provide unaudited information about revenue from external customers and EBITDA for the Group's operating segments for the current and previous financial years. EBITDA is calculated by adding back interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation to net profit.

For more information about the Groups operating segments, refer to the annual report for the year ended 31 December 2022, which is available from:

https://www.hybridsoftware.group/investors/financial-reports.

For the quarter ended 30 September 2023:

In millions of euros (unaudited) Enterprise Software Printhead Solutions Printing Software Group Total Revenue from external customers 5.53 2.97 3.14 - 11.65 Segment EBITDA 1.16 0.62 0.30 (0.13) 1.95 as a % of revenue 21% 21% 10% 17%

For the quarter ended 30 September 2022:

In millions of euros (unaudited) Enterprise Software Printhead Solutions Printing Software Group Total Revenue from external customers 5.14 2.49 3.66 - 11.29 Segment EBITDA 1.36 0.13 (*) 3.40 (0.31) 4.58 as a % of revenue 27% 5% 93% 41%

(*) Q3 2022 EBITDA was favourably impacted by the sale of an unused asset (approximately 69,000 IPv4 internet addresses) for a net amount of 3.3 million.

For the nine months ended 30 September 2023:

In millions of euros (unaudited) Enterprise Software Printhead Solutions Printing Software Group Total Revenue from external customers 16.40 8.43 11.72 - 36.54 Segment EBITDA 3.16 1.22 1.95 (0.67) 5.66 as a % of revenue 19% 15% 17% 15%

For the nine months ended 30 September 2022:

In millions of euros (unaudited) Enterprise Software Printhead Solutions Printing Software Group Total Revenue from external customers 16.47 6.10 12.16 - 34.73 Segment EBITDA 4.33 0.35 (*) 6.14 (1.62) 9.20 as a % of revenue 26% 6% 51% 26%

(*) Q3 2022 EBITDA was favourably impacted by the sale of an unused asset (approximately 69,000 IPv4 internet addresses) for a net amount of 3.3 million.

About Hybrid Software Group

Through its operating subsidiaries. Hybrid Software Group PLC (Euronext: HYSG) is a leading developer of enterprise software for industrial print manufacturing. Customers include press manufacturers such as HP. Canon. Durst. Roland. Hymmen. and hundreds of packaging printers. trade shops. and converters worldwide.

Hybrid Software Group PLC is headquartered in Cambridge UK. Its subsidiary companies are colour technology experts ColorLogic. printing software developers Global Graphics Software. enterprise software developer HYBRID Software. 3D design and modelling software developers iC3D. the industrial printhead driver solutions specialists. Meteor Inkjet and pre-press workflow developer Xitron.

Contacts

Floris De Ruyck Joachim Van Hemelen Legal Counsel & Investor Relations Officer Chief Financial Officer Tel: +32 (0) 9 329 57 53 Tel: +32 (0) 9 329 57 53 Email: florisdr@hybridsoftware.group Email: joachimvh@hybridsoftware.group




Royal Philips

Philips iFR

iFR co-registration

October 26, 2023

Safety of Philips iFR in the guidance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for heart disease demonstrated in late-breaking science at TCT 2023 highlighting patient-level outcomes analysis of 42,000 patients from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry

Previous data demonstrate that iFR delivers consistent patient outcomes, reduces discomfort and offers a more cost-effective and faster diagnostic solution [1,2] compared to FFR

Amsterdam, the Netherlands  Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA), a global leader in health technology, today announced the latest results demonstrating the safety of Philips instant wave-free ratio (iFR) in the guidance of PCI.

Philips is committed to clinically validating its innovations in cardiac and cardiovascular care. iFR is an innovative pressure-derived index only offered by Philips that is used to assess coronary blockages during interventional procedures. iFR avoids the use of hyperemic agents, a class of drugs that maximize blood flow but have a significant impact on the patient experience [3].

A longitudinal analysis from the National Swedeheart Quality Registry of more than 42,000 patients undergoing coronary procedures, showed no difference between iFR and fractional flow reserve (FFR) in major adverse cardiac events (MACE) [4]. The analysis, Long-term Safety of Revascularization Deferral Based on Instantaneous Wave-Free Ratio or Fractional Reserve, compares patient outcomes using iFR and FFR in the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.

These new findings once again confirm the safety of iFR. We continue to see that iFR-guided treatment offers consistent outcomes, reduces costs, and provides a better patient experience, said Dr. Gotberg, Department of Cardiology, Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Sweden, who presented the results during a late-breaking science session at the Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT) annual meeting in San Francisco. The data from this new analysis provides additional confidence in the safety of iFR for physicians.

Story continues

In the previously published analysis of the five-year outcomes of the randomized trial iFR-SWEDEHEART, results found iFR and FFR to be equally safe and effective with respect to risks for MACE. The cumulative MACE risks for each group differentiated by 1.6% (iFR: 21.5%, FFR: 19.9%, HR 1.09 (95% CI: 0.90-1.33 at 5 years). There was no difference in risk for death, heart attack or new revascularization [3].

The results presented today from the SWEDEHEART registry revealed that patients in the iFR group had more risk factors compared with the FFR group but when adjusted for known confounders there was no difference in 5-year MACE between patients who underwent iFR or FFR-guided revascularization (32.2% vs. 31.3%, adjusted HR 0.99, 95%CI 0.931.05, p=0.65). Furthermore, the outcome was similar in the individual components of MACE (death, heart attack, new revascularization) as well as in both deferred and treated subgroups.

Patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent

iFR is considered the Gold Standard for hyperemia-free physiologic assessment for measuring pressure in diagnostic and interventional procedures [1,4]. Similar to FFR, clinicians use these tools coupled with angiographic images to assess coronary blockages. However, by avoiding administrating a hyperemic agent, patient discomfort can be reduced by 95.7 percent and enables iFR to detect disease processes downstream from the major blood vessels [4].

Only Philips iFR has a Class IA recommendation by the American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions and European Society of Cardiology [1,2].

We are confident in our pursuit of innovation to improve outcomes and ensure patient safety. The data continues to demonstrate the benefits of iFR-guided treatment to reduce costs and improve outcomes, said Chris Landon, General Manager, Philips Image Guided Therapy Devices. iFR technology is unique to Philips, and we are proud to offer the global gold standard treatment for patients with ischemic heart disease.

For more information on Philips and the iFR data, please visit http://www.philips.com/iFR and follow the #TCT2023 conversation with @PhilipsLiveFrom throughout the event.

[1] Lawton J. et al. 2021 ACC/AHA/SCAI Guideline for Coronary Artery Revascularization. JACC. 2022;79(2):e21-e129.

[2] 2018 ESC/EACTS Guidelines on myocardial revascularization: The task force on myocardial revascularization of the European society of cardiology (ESC) and European association for cardio-thoracic surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2018;00:1-96. Japan guidelines.

[3] Gotberg M, et al. Instantaneous wave-free ratio compared with fractional flow reserve in PCI: A cost-minimization analysis. Int J Cardiol 2021 1;344:54-59.

[4] Gotberg M, Berntorp K, Rylance R, et al. 5  Year outcomes of PCI guided by measurement of instantaneous wave-free ratio versus fractional flow reserve. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2022;79(10):965974.

For further information, please contact:

Joost Maltha

Philips Global Press Office

Tel. : +31 6 10558116

E-mail: joost.maltha@philips.com

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a leading health technology company focused on improving people's health and well-being through meaningful innovation. Philips patient- and people-centric innovation leverages advanced technology and deep clinical and consumer insights to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional health solutions for healthcare providers and their patients in the hospital and the home. Headquartered in the Netherlands, the company is a leader in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, monitoring and enterprise informatics, as well as in personal health. Philips generated 2022 sales of EUR 17.8 billion and employs approximately 70,700 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. News about Philips can be found at www.philips.com/newscenter .

Attachments




(Bloomberg) -- The US said it hit two facilities in eastern Syria it believes were used by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other groups, in what it called self-defense strikes following repeated attacks on US forces in the region. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin warned that further action could come if attacks by Irans proxies continue.

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Israels military said it had killed Hamass deputy head of intelligence, who it accused of being responsible for helping plan the Oct. 7 attacks that killed some 1,400 people. The army overnight also made a limited ground raid into northern Gaza with infantry and tanks.

A small number of humanitarian aid trucks reached Gaza Thursday but there have been no indications of fuel being supplied. The United Nations has said the fuel shortages risk it halting relief operations. In Washington, US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said the Biden administration is weighing additional sanctions on Hamas to hamper its ability to access money.

(All time stamps are Israeli time)

Austin Says US Struck Two Facilities in Eastern Syria (5:12 a.m.)

Defense Secretary Austin said President Joe Biden ordered precision self-defense strikes against two facilities in eastern Syria that were used by Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and affiliated groups. The move was in response to attacks against US personnel in Iraq and Syria since Oct. 17, Austin said in a statement.

The United States does not seek conflict and has no intention nor desire to engage in further hostilities, but these Iranian-backed attacks against U.S. forces are unacceptable and must stop, Austin said. We continue to urge all state and non-state entities not to take action that would escalate into a broader regional conflict.

Story continues

Rocket Hits Egyptian Border Town, Reports Say (4:21 a.m.)

A rocket came down on the Egyptian town of Taba, which borders Israel on the Gulf of Aqaba, causing several injuries, according to multiple reports in local media. It wasnt immediately clear where the rocket was launched from. Egyptian authorities have begun an investigation, Al Arabiya said, citing local media.

Taba is more than 200 kilometers (124 miles) south of Gaza.

US Is Sending 900 Troops to Bolster Deployments (11:15 p.m.)

The US is deploying 900 troops to the Middle East as regional tensions grow amid the Israel-Hamas war. Brigadier General Pat Ryder, a Pentagon spokesman, said the personnel include Thaad and Patriot air defense operators. None of the troops, which are already deployed or are being sent, are going to Israel, Ryder added.

He also disclosed what he called an unsuccessful attack Thursday aimed at US forces at the Erbil air base in Iraq, which he said resulted in no casualties. Overall, US and coalition forces have been attacked 12 times in Iraq and four times in Syria from Oct. 17 through Oct. 26, he said. He said US personnel received minor injuries due to drone attacks at Al-Asad air base in Iraq and Al-Tanf garrison in Syria. This included traumatic brain injuries, although all of the personnel have returned to duty, Ryder said.

Yellen Says US Weighing Further Hamas Sanctions (9:43 p.m.)

The US is weighing additional sanctions on Hamas as part of efforts to constrain the militant groups ability to access money, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said.

We are certainly looking at further opportunities we see, Yellen said in an event at Bloombergs Washington office on Thursday. Were all over this and are likely to do more.

Yellen declined to comment on specific measures but said the US has taken several steps over the last year to cut Hamass ability to access money. She said that Treasury officials are traveling this week to work with European and Middle East allies and look for new ways to target the group, which has been under severe sanctions since the US designated it a terrorist organization in 1997.

Iran Says Hamas Ready For Prisoner Swap (9:17 p.m.)

Irans foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said Hamas is prepared to swap civilian hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

According to our negotiations, Hamas is ready to release civilian prisoners. On the other hand, the world should support the release of 6,000 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons, he said in an address to the United Nations in New York.

UN Says Its Rationing Fuel Supplies to Gaza Facilities (9:04 p.m.)

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency is trying to stretch its existing fuel reserves in Gaza. We are rationing the outgoing amounts and prioritizing hospitals, bakeries and water filtering stations, Adnan Abu Hassna, spokesman for the UN Relief and Works Agency, told Bloomberg.

If fuel doesnt enter in the coming hours or two days, Gaza will not only run out of fuel, but will run out of life, he said. In addition to the halting of vital services, he pointed out that UNRWAs trucks wont be able to distribute aid shipments that trickle in from the Egyptian border. Stephane Dujarric, spokeswoman for the UN secretary general, said in a briefing Thursday that UNWRAs fuel supplies are expected to last only a very short amount of time.

Separately, a spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces, Richard Hecht, said in a briefing that there is fuel in Gaza and its up to Hamas to decide whether it wants to use it for its own operations or give it to hospitals.

Israel Says It Killed Key Planner of Oct. 7 Attacks (6:28 p.m.)

The Israeli military said it killed in an air strike Thursday the deputy head of the Hamas intelligence directorate, Shadi Barud. It said in a statement that he was responsible for the planning of Oct 7 attacks with Yahya Sinwar, the top Hamas leader in Gaza. Hamas hasnt publicly commented on the claim.

Israel also said it killed three commanders from the Daraj Tuffah Battalion of Hamass Gaza City Brigade, who it said also had significant roles in the Oct. 7 attacks.

Israel Is Using Spyware to Track Hostages (3:45 p.m.)

Israel is asking for the help of spyware companies, including the maker of the controversial Pegasus software, to track hostages in the Gaza Strip, people familiar with the matter said.

NSO Group and Candiru, both blacklisted by the US, are among several companies asked to quickly upgrade their spyware capabilities to meet needs laid out by the countrys security forces. They, together with several other software firms, are collaborating on the requests.

Read: Israel Is Using Pegasus Spyware Maker to Track Hostages in Gaza

Turkeys Erdogan Steps Up Rhetoric Against Israel (2:38 p.m.)

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan lashed out against Israel Thursday for carrying out a cruel massacre of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, as part of a speech where he also targeted the EU and the UN Security Council.

How many more children should die for the EU Commission to urge a ceasefire? How many more tons of bombs should be dropped on Gaza for the UN Security Council to act?

Erdogan had also criticized Israel on Wednesday, when he said he was canceling a planned visit to the country later this year and put energy cooperation on pause. He has also slammed the US, a NATO ally, for the deployment of warships to the eastern Mediterranean.

EU Leaders Seek Unity to Call for Pauses in the War (2:15 p.m.)

EU leaders are moving closer to calling for a humanitarian pause that would allow aid to reach Gaza in bigger quantities. Member states wrangled over the wording of a joint statement due to be signed off by the leaders, according to people familiar with the issue.

The latest version calls for continued, rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access and aid to reach those in need through all necessary measures including humanitarian corridors and pauses, according to a text seen by Bloomberg.

Read: EU Leaders Seek Unity on Urging Aid Pauses in Israel-Hamas War

Israel Says 60 Arrests Made in the West Bank (1:05 p.m.)

Israeli defense forces said that more than 60 arrests were made in the West Bank last night, according to a post on X. It added that 46 of those detained were Hamas operatives, bringing the total number of arrests in the area, which is governed by the Palestinian Authority, to over 1,000 since the war started.

Some Aid Trucks Enter Gaza (1:02 p.m.)

The Palestine Red Crescent Society said it received 12 trucks of aid from its Egyptian counterpart, according to a post on X. The trucks, which entered Gaza through the Rafah border crossing, contained water, food and and medical supplies. Fuel has not been allowed to enter yet.

The UN has also warned that its shelters are overwhelmed by almost 600,000 Palestinians fleeing their homes, and that it might have to halt humanitarian operations if no fuel is delivered. A total of 74 aid trucks have been allowed into the Gaza Strip since Oct. 7, short of the circa 100 trucks of humanitarian supplies per day a UN official estimated last week were needed.

Israel Says 309 Soldiers Killed in Conflict So Far, 224 Hostages Held in Gaza (11:50 a.m.)

The families of 309 soldiers have been notified by the Israel Defense Forces that they were killed since the Oct. 7 infiltration by Hamas, spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a televised statement. The military also updated the number of hostages who are believed to be held in Gaza to 224.

Police said that 808 civilians who died following the attack by Hamas have been identified, or 84% of the bodies that were recovered.

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
(Bloomberg) -- US President Joe Biden and Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed efforts to secure the release of hostages, allow foreign nationals to leave Gaza and bolster aid deliveries, the White House said.

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Earlier Biden said he had asked Israel to delay an invasion of Gaza so that more hostages held by Hamas can be freed, and French President Emmanuel Macron said a massive ground operation would be a mistake, as diplomatic efforts to avert a wider war intensify.

Netanyahu told Israelis a ground invasion is being prepared, triggering a jump in oil prices. Israels military said it continued to target Hamass leadership in Gaza, where the United Nations said that its shelters were overwhelmed by almost 600,000 Palestinians whove fled their homes.

(All time stamps are Israeli time)

Biden-Netanyahu Call Centers on Hostages, Aid, Post-Crisis (4:12 a.m.)

Biden and Netanyahu discussed the situation in Gaza, including efforts to secure the release of hostages and ways to ramp up aid deliveries, during a phone call Wednesday afternoon Washington time, according to a White House statement.

Biden also reiterated that Israel has every right and responsibility to defend its citizens from terrorism and to do so in a manner consistent with international humanitarian law, according to the statement.

The US president urged Israels government to focus on what comes after this crisis, to include a pathway for a permanent peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

US Says 21 Suffered Minor Injuries in Iraq, Syria Attacks (1 a.m.)

The Pentagon said 21 US personnel received minor injuries in drone attacks targeting the Al Assad Airbase in Iraq and the Al-Tanf Garrison in Syria. All have returned to duty.

Story continues

The injuries were suffered between Oct. 17 and 18, Brigadier General Pat Ryder, a Defense Department spokesman, said in a statement. The US has accused Iran-backed militias for the attacks and has warned it would ultimately hold Iran responsible, statements that have helped fan fears that the Israel-Hamas war could turn into a regional conflict.

Putin Says Gaza War Risks Spilling Far Beyond Middle East (1 a.m.)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said theres a risk that an escalating Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza could spill far beyond the borders of the Middle East.

In televised remarks at a Kremlin meeting with the heads of religious groups, including Jewish and Muslim leaders, Putin expressed condolences over the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks in Israel but also criticized the bombing of the Gaza Strip. The fight against terrorism cannot be carried out according to the notorious principle of collective responsibility, he said.

Security Council Rejects Rival Resolutions to Pause Fighting (11:45 p.m.)

The United Nations Security Council voted down dueling US and Russian resolutions that sought to pause the fighting between Israel and Hamas and open the flow of humanitarian aid, as pressure mounted on Netanyahu to let food and medicine into the Gaza Strip.

The council first rejected a US-backed resolution that called for measures including humanitarian pauses that would give UN agencies access to provide essential goods and services important to the well-being of civilians in Gaza, including especially water, electricity, fuel, food and medical supplies. The resolution gained the support of 10 of the councils 15 members but Russia and China vetoed it. Then the council rejected a Russian-backed resolution that called for a broader cease-fire, with the US and UK vetoing it.

Oil Climbs on Israels Invasion Buildup (10:20 p.m.)

Oil rose as Israels preparations for a ground invasion of Gaza revived concerns about the conflict disrupting supplies from the Middle East. West Texas Intermediate rallied above $85 a barrel during Netanyahus televised address, marking the return of a war premium that had essentially vanished this week.

Biden Says He Asked Israel to Delay Attack for Hostage Talks (9:50 p.m.)

Biden said he had asked Israel to delay a ground invasion of Gaza to assist in the return of hostages held by Hamas, but had not demanded that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hold off on military operations.

What I have indicated to him, is that if thats possible to get these folks out safely, thats what he should do. Its their decision, Biden said Wednesday at the White House. He also called for a two-state solution once the war is over, saying Israel has a responsibility to plan for governance after pushing Hamas of Gaza.

Israeli Jets Strike Hezbollah Military Targets in Lebanon (9:30 p.m.)

Israeli fighter jets struck a number of Hezbollah targets in Lebanon, including a compound and observation posts, the military said. Earlier in the day, Israeli tanks and aircraft attacked militants in three separate incidents. One of the groups had fired an anti-tank missile at Israeli soldiers the countrys north, and a second was suspected of attempting to carry out a shooting attack from Lebanon, the Israeli military said.

Netanyahu Tells Israelis That Gaza Ground Assault Is Coming (8:50 p.m.)

Netanyahu told Israelis that the military is preparing a ground invasion of Gaza as the country fights for its very existence, and said he wont explain the reasons for its timing to avoid providing information to the enemy.

We are preparing for ground entry. I will not detail when, how and how much, nor the set of considerations that we take into account, Netanyahu said. This is in order to protect the lives of our soldiers. He also said that after the war there will be a thorough investigation of Israels failure to prevent the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks, and that he himself will be among those wholl have to provide answers.

Massive Israeli Ground Operation Would Be Mistake: Macron (7:45 p.m.)

French President Emmanuel Macron said a massive Israeli ground operation in Gaza would be a mistake since it would put civilian populations in danger and wouldnt provide long-term security for Israel. The French leader, who spoke with reporters in Cairo after visiting Israel, said that such an operation wouldnt abide by international humanitarian law.

Iran Leader Accuses US of Orchestrating Crimes in Gaza (7:15 p.m.)

Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said the US is orchestrating the crimes being committed in Gaza, in a post on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. His comments come after the US warned it will hold Iran responsible for a spate of attacks on American forces in the region. Iran is a key backer of Hamas, which is classified as a terrorist group by the US and European Union.

Israel to Delay Invasion as US Seeks to Protect Troops: WSJ (6:15 p.m.)

The Pentagon has persuaded Israel to delay an invasion of Gaza until the US can deploy almost a dozen air-defense systems to the Middle East to protect US troops in the area, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing US officials and unidentified people familiar with Israels war planning.

The missiles may be in place later this week, and would protect US forces in Iraq, Syria, Kuwait, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, the WSJ said. US troops in Syria and Iraq have been attacked multiple times in the past week by drones and rockets. The US has blamed Iran-backed militias.

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2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Artifacts, relics returned to China from Australia

08:52, October 26, 2023 By YANG FEIYUE ( Chinadaily.com.cn

One of the items returned to China by Australia on Wednesday. (Xinhua/Chu Chen)

Australia returned two precious cultural relics and a fossil and donated an artifact and an art piece to China in a handover ceremony on Wednesday at the Chinese embassy in Canberra.

The items included a ceramic figure of a person riding a horse, a gilded bronze Buddhist statue that can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) or the Northern Dynasty (386-581), and a dinosaur fossil dating back to the late Jurassic or early Cretaceous period.

In addition, the Australian National Art Gallery donated a hairpin from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) and axizun, an ox-shaped bronze ceremonial vessel, to the Chinese government. Chinese experts said the vessel could be from the Ming (1368-1644) or Qing Dynasty, or even the contemporary period.

Since 2020, the Chinese National Cultural Heritage Administration, the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Chinese embassy in Australia have worked closely with the Australian Office for the Arts to facilitate the return of illegally imported cultural relics, art items and fossils.

Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian said the return of the cultural relics demonstrates the shared commitment of the Chinese and Australian governments to the preservation of cultural heritage.

It also serves as a significant event in cultural heritage exchange and friendly cooperation between the two nations, Xiao said.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, cultural heritage exchanges and cooperation between the two countries have grown, playing a positive role in advancing the development of bilateral ties, Xiao added.

Australian Minister for the Arts Tony Burke, noting that China possesses a rich historical and cultural heritage, said Australia places a high importance on the issue of stolen cultural relics and is committed to following international museum standards to facilitate their return to their countries of origin.

Burke said he hoped that the items returned on Wednesday can be displayed in museums to enhance the public's understanding of history and the friendship between the peoples of China and Australia.

China and Australia signed a memorandum of understanding on cultural heritage protection in 2009. In 2015, Australia returned a cultural relic to China.

At a news conference on Wednesday, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said that China appreciates the return of the items. She said this was another example of successful collaboration between China and Australia in the field of cultural heritage protection and the return of lost cultural relics.

The return of the items also serves as a vivid example of the close ties between the peoples of China and Australia, Mao said.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
The Saudi-EU Investment Forum has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting investments between the European Union and Saudi Arabia focusing on sustainable energy, information and communication technology and critical raw materials.

Convened in Riyadh and co-hosted by the European Union and Saudi Arabia, the Forum recognised the imperative of forging a profounder strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the European Union, which is already one of Saudi Arabias largest trading and investment partners.

Attended by Maros Sefcovic, the Executive Vice-President for the European Green Deal, Interinstitutional Relations, and Foresight at the European Commission, and Khalid Al-Falih, the Minister of Investment of Saudi Arabia, the Forum agreed to accelerate the development and implementation of sustainable, digital solutions to the benefit of their societies and contribute to global progress.

Sustainable energy

Both sides are keen on promoting sustainable energy initiatives, emphasising their commitment to speed up the green transformation of economies and societies.

Recognising the importance of the digital age and of investments in ICT both sides will enhance efforts to turn digitalisation into economic opportunities for citizens.

Ensuring the availability of critical raw materials is a shared concern, and both parties are committed to addressing this challenge through strategic investments.

The forum has underscored the significance of fostering entrepreneurship, recognising it as a driving force behind innovation and economic growth.

Mutual benefits

Sefcovic stated: Together, the European Union and Saudi Arabia can build closer cooperation bringing mutual benefits, with enhanced trade and investment flows, support to the stability of the respective business and investment environments, and further promoting the integration of our economies.

Al-Falih commented: We are confident that there is a clear convergence between Saudi Arabias transformation and Europes transition  and that what Europe needs, the kingdom can provide like no other. Where Europe faces challenges or sees opportunity emerging from disruption, the partnership with Saudi Arabia can be a key part of the solution.

The Saudi-EU Investment Forum culminated in substantial exchanges regarding investments in these pivotal sectors of shared interest. These investments underscore the determination of both Saudi Arabia and the European Union to realise their goals and contribute to a brighter future.--TradeArabia News Service
The partnership brings a novel ADHD treatment option to the Canadian market

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - Kye Pharmaceuticals Inc. ("Kye"), a Canadian specialty pharmaceutical company, announced its partnership with Hyloris Pharmaceuticals SA ("Hyloris"), a Belgium-based developer, manufacturer and global supplier of a novel, prescription, oral solution form of atomoxetine. Through this partnership, Kye becomes the exclusive Canadian rights holder for the Atomoxetine Oral Solution developed by Hyloris. Under the terms of the agreement, Kye is responsible for the registration and commercialization of this product in Canada.

Partnerships with purpose. Kye Pharmaceuticals is a private company headquartered in Canada focused on bringing medications to the Canadian market which fulfill clinically significant unmet needs. (CNW Group/KYE Pharmaceuticals Inc.)

Atomoxetine Oral Solution may be indicated for the treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children 6 years of age and over, adolescents, and adults.

ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders, affecting 4-6% of adults and 5-7% of children in Canada, or approximately 1,8 million Canadians. ADHD is a common childhood disorder leading to impairments in learning and behavior. Eighty percent of children diagnosed with ADHD continue to qualify for a diagnosis in adolescence and at least 65% continue to be impaired by symptoms in adulthood.1

Atomoxetine Oral Solution can provide an easier to swallow, more appropriate formulation for patients with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties) or when requiring dosage titration, which is a key concern in children and some adults with ADHD.

"Many Canadians with ADHD are unable to take solid tablets as prescribed, and alternative formulations which have been available internationally are not readily available in the Canadian market," says John McKendry, President of Kye. "This partnership expands our growing portfolio of innovative ADHD treatments and will ensure Canadian patients have access to a liquid formulation of atomoxetine, a well-established non-stimulant medication."

Story continues

Hyloris is committed to bringing innovative, value-added medicines that address the needs of underserved patient populations. "We are proud to be collaborating with Kye to supply this essential ADHD treatment to Canadian patients," says Stijn Van Rompay, Chief Executive Officer of Hyloris.

_________________________

1 https://caddac.ca/about-adhd/

About Kye Pharmaceuticals

Kye Pharmaceuticals is a private company headquartered in Canada focused on bringing medications to the Canadian market which fulfill clinically significant unmet needs. Kye continues to license, register, and commercialize innovative prescription medicines. Kye was founded on an entrepreneurial spirit, applying the team's diverse strengths to a growing portfolio, and delivering value to its partners, healthcare professionals, and most importantly, patients across Canada. For more information please visit www.kyepharma.com.

About Hyloris Pharmaceuticals

Hyloris Pharmaceuticals SA is a specialty biopharma company focused on innovating, reinventing, and optimizing existing medications to address important healthcare needs and deliver relevant improvements for patients, healthcare professionals and payors. Hyloris has built a broad, patented portfolio of reformulated and repurposed value-added medicines that have the potential to offer significant advantages over available alternatives. For more information visit hyloris.com

SOURCE KYE Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Cision

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2023/26/c1484.html
Landstar System (LSTR) reported $1.29 billion in revenue for the quarter ended September 2023, representing a year-over-year decline of 29%. EPS of $1.71 for the same period compares to $2.76 a year ago.

The reported revenue represents a surprise of -0.56% over the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.3 billion. With the consensus EPS estimate being $1.70, the EPS surprise was +0.59%.

While investors closely watch year-over-year changes in headline numbers -- revenue and earnings -- and how they compare to Wall Street expectations to determine their next course of action, some key metrics always provide a better insight into a company's underlying performance.

Since these metrics play a crucial role in driving the top- and bottom-line numbers, comparing them with the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated about them helps investors better project a stock's price performance.

Here is how Landstar performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:

Number of loads - Truck Transportation : 526,370 versus the two-analyst average estimate of 530,342.

Number of loads - Ocean and air cargo carriers : 8,630 versus 8,244 estimated by two analysts on average.

Revenue per load - Truck Transportation : $2,230 versus the two-analyst average estimate of $2,242.21.

Revenue per load - Rail Intermodal : $3,412 compared to the $3,328.35 average estimate based on two analysts.

Investment income : $3.02 million compared to the $1.41 million average estimate based on four analysts. The reported number represents a change of +322.1% year over year.

Revenue- Truck Transportation : $1.17 billion versus the four-analyst average estimate of $1.21 billion.

Revenue- Other : $26.69 million versus $24.65 million estimated by four analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a +4.8% change.

Revenue- Rail Intermodal : $23.06 million versus the three-analyst average estimate of $25.22 million. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of -16.6%.

Revenue- Ocean and air cargo carriers : $65.82 million versus $78.02 million estimated by three analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a -59.9% change.

Revenue : $1.29 billion versus the three-analyst average estimate of $1.31 billion. The reported number represents a year-over-year change of -19.4%.

Revenue- Truck Transportation- Other Truck transportation : $101.95 million versus $129.20 million estimated by two analysts on average.

Revenue- Truck Transportation- Less-than-truckload: $28.10 million versus $27.86 million estimated by two analysts on average. Compared to the year-ago quarter, this number represents a -20.5% change.

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View all Key Company Metrics for Landstar here>>>



Shares of Landstar have returned -6.8% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's -1.6% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could 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

Landstar System, Inc. (LSTR) : Free Stock Analysis Report

To read this article on Zacks.com click here.

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Number of workless households has increased since the Covid pandemic

Missed school, limited socialising and cancelled work experience  the side-effects of the pandemic and their impact on childrens mental health and their job prospects are well-documented.

Yet there is another, hidden, crisis that has been seeded by Covid-19: a rise in the number of children growing up in workless households.

Before the pandemic, the number of children growing up in a house where no adult had had a job for at least 12 months had been falling steadily for a decade.

In 2010, there were 1.6m children living in what are classed as long-term workless households. By 2020, it was 1m  a drop of nearly 40pc.

The pandemic reversed that trend, with an extra 134,000 children falling into the bracket between 2020 and 2021. New figures published this week show only a slight decline, with 1.1m children growing up without an employed adult around them.

The number is likely to rise further  there are another 200,000 or so children whose parents or guardians have been out of work for less than 12 months and could be classified as long-term workless if they fail to find jobs by next year. The darkening outlook for the economy means that is a very real possibility.

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The impact of this on children is profound and may well be felt by many for the rest of their lives. Children growing up in workless families are nearly twice as likely to fail at all stages of their education, according to a 2017 government study.



After education, many will not make it into jobs.

These are children who are being raised in families where work has no purpose or meaning, says Cristina Odone, head of the family policy unit at the Centre for Social Justice.

The habit of worklessness is a very infectious one. We work with about 500 local charities and what they are seeing on the ground is that there is a big proportion of the population that has picked up this habit of being economically inactive.

The rise in workless households is a result of the surge in inactivity seen since the pandemic, says Ryan Shorthouse, chief executive of think tank Bright Blue. There are now around 8.7m inactive people in the UK, according to the latest figures, up from roughly 8.4m prior to the pandemic.

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People can be inactive for a number of reasons, ranging from caring responsibilities to studying and retirement. But the rise since the pandemic has primarily been driven by an increase in long-term sickness. It suggests many will not return to the workforce.

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More children growing up in workless households will have major social and economic repercussions.

If the snowball continues to grow, we are looking at a significant impact on our economy because we are seeing such a significant proportion of the workforce staying away, being work-shy, says Odone.

There are already early signs of what may be to come: more than one in ten 16- to 24-year-olds are now not in education, employment or training (NEET).

That equates to 794,000 who are outside of the labour market  up 0.5 percentage points compared to pre-pandemic levels, according to Office for National Statistics figures.

At least some of these young people are likely to have grown up in workless households.

If they dont know anybody who works, they dont have any reference points, says Anne Longfield, chair of the Commission for Young Lives and former childrens commissioner for England. You have got kids who just dont know what jobs are available.

Odone says many of this cohort struggle to break into employment because growing up in a workless household seeds poverty of aspiration.

Yet there are also more fundamental reasons, argues Longfield.

They will go into school often hungry and not have the fuel inside them to learn. And there is a dreadful loss of confidence and a lack of agency.

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As more and more young adults find themselves neither working nor learning, the number of people depending on the state will rise just as the number of people supporting it shrinks, says Trushar Pandya, head of analysis at the Centre for Social Justice.

To make matters worse, the workforce is already shrinking because of Britains ageing population.

We will just become poorer, he warns.

What can be done to stop this snowball of worklessness growing ever bigger?

Getting parents and guardians into work is key. Think tanks have called for reform of the benefits system to help more families get back to work.

We need to use our benefits system now to try and stop what seems to be this kind of U-turn and reversal of the positive trend that we had seen in worklessness, says Shorthouse.

The Centre for Social Justice believes the Government should introduce an Into Work Guarantee, which would give jobseekers reassurance that their benefit entitlement would be protected if a job did not work out.

The Government acknowledges the problem and is beginning to address it. New measures to get people back to work have been announced, such as boosting childcare support, and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is expected to unveil further plans at next months budget.

Efforts to address long-term sickness will also help. In March, the government outlined proposals to support people with health conditions to get back into the workforce. These included scrapping the Work Capability Assessment (WCA)  which decides whether a person is too unfit to work  and basing incapacity payments on whether a person receives personal independence payments (PIP), a benefit for people whose disability increases the financial cost of daily tasks.

But changes in policy will take time to translate into jobs. And the need for action is urgent.

Many children, regardless of their background, are already struggling with school post-Covid after they lost the habit of going, says Odone.

Those growing up in workless households risk losing the habit of looking for a job, she adds.

Isolation and the impact of Covid are still scarring a whole generation. Whether it is ghost children or ghost employees, we are really seeing a whole new mindset.

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WORCESTER, Mass., October 26, 2023--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Machado, the areas leading proactive managed IT services and cybersecurity provider, is honored to secure a position on the acclaimed 2023 Inc. 5000 list, a testament to their unparalleled growth and dedication in the IT services sector. This award is a testament to the company's steadfast growth from 2019 to 2022, driven by its proactive approach to IT and cybersecurity that stands out in an often reactive industry landscape.

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 list are distinguished for their outstanding revenue growth, commitment to independence, and demonstrable successes in their industry. Qualifying for this list is an honor, and it recognizes businesses that have showcased commendable growth and resilience.

The success of Machado cannot be accredited to numbers alone. CEO Helder Machado emphasized, "This achievement is a collective effort. Our dedicated team and our loyal clients have been paramount in earning this award. Their trust and partnership drive us to provide top-notch services consistently."

Specializing in proactive IT management and cybersecurity, Machado offers services spanning compliance, vulnerability and risk assessment, backup, disaster recovery, and cloud services. Given the rising importance of cybersecurity, Machados specializes in servicing highly regulated professional services like banking, healthcare, manufacturing, financial services, and more.

From growing up in Portugal to serving under Secretary Colin Powell in Iraq, Helder Machados diverse experiences have infused Machado with a distinctive spirit. His personal and professional experiences have shaped the company's core values, emphasizing the Golden Rule in all interactions. "My family, my employees, and my clients...I treat them all the same...like family," shares Helder. This personal touch and dedication to relationship-building have undoubtedly contributed to the company's success.

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Machado goes beyond business, with a commitment to the Greater Worcester community. Each team member dedicates 4-8 hours monthly to volunteer at local organizations, a reflection of the firm's ingrained dedication of giving back.

About Machado

Established in 2001 in Worcester, MA, Machado is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) founded on the idea that high-quality IT solutions and support should be more than a proactive tool that protects your business. IT should be an agile team that is an extension of your business and helps you anticipate events. As a Top 10 Managed Service Provider (MSP) in Massachusetts, Machado helps you unlock the full potential of your business with proactive, managed IT and cybersecurity solutions from a team that cares and prepares you to be ready for the next cyberattackopportunityauditcompliance eventor transformation.

Inc. 5000 Methodology

Companies on the 2023 Inc. 5000 are ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent--not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies--as of December 31, 2022. (Since then, some on the list may have gone public or been acquired.) The minimum revenue required for 2019 is $100,000; the minimum for 2022 is $2 million. As always, Inc. reserves the right to decline applicants for subjective reasons. Growth rates used to determine rankings were calculated to four decimal places.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231026699678/en/

Contacts

Media:

Helder Machado

CEO/CISO, Machado Consulting, Inc.

hmachado@gomachado.com
As worldwide concern for the environmental impact of traditional fuel grows, global players in the oil industry are investing in biofuels with new-zero carbon emissions.

BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Biofuel in transport fuel is just 5.4%, or around 2 million barrels per day. That number may seem small, but BCC's latest report, Biofuels: Global Markets, indicates that biofuels have been accepted as the only immediate option to help the aviation industry bring down CO2 emissions.

BCC_Research_Logo

Produced from non-edible organic materials, such as crops, agricultural waste, and even algae, biofuels are significantly more sustainable than traditional alternatives. While not perfectly carbon-neutral, it is still possible to achieve net-zero emissions while producing biofuels.

BCC's report projects an increase in biofuels' share in the transportation market, motivated by:

Global efforts to combat climate change, such as the Paris Agreement, are motivating companies to invest in biofuels.

Investments from multinational oil companies like Exxon Mobil, B.P., and Neste, which invested close to $3 billion in biofuels last year.

Emerging startups like Manta Biofuel and Innoltek, which are paving the way in biofuel innovations, using algae and animal fats as an alternative to crude oil.

Favorable legislation like California's Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) policy that is promoting the use of carbon-neutral fuels like biodiesel.

Biofuels: Global Markets provides a comprehensive overview of the present and future impacts of biofuels on the global oil industry. A more sustainable fuel alternative, biofuels are helping airlines decrease carbon emissions and work toward more sustainable travel.

Download Report Overview

For further information or to make a purchase, please get in touch with info@bccresearch.com.

About BCC Research

BCC Research provides objective, unbiased measurement and assessment of market opportunities with detailed market research reports. Our experienced industry analysts' goal is to help you make informed business decisions, free of noise and hype.

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Contact Us

Corporate HQ:

BCC Research LLC

49 Walnut Park, Building 2

Wellesley, MA 02481, USA

info@bccresearch.com,

+1 781-489-7301

Data and analysis extracted from this press release must be accompanied by a statement identifying BCC Research LLC as the source and publisher. For media inquiries, email press@bccresearch.com or visit www.bccresearch.com/media to request access to our library of market research.

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SOURCE BCC Research LLC
Matador Resources Company (NYSE:MTDR) Q3 2023 Earnings Call Transcript October 25, 2023

Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the Third Quarter 2023 Matador Resources Company Earnings Conference Call. My name is Latif, and Ill be serving as the operator for today. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. We will facilitate a question-and-answer session at the end of the companys remarks. As a reminder, this conference is being recorded for replay purposes and the replay will be available in the companys website for one year as discussed in the companys earnings press release issued yesterday. I will now turn the call over to Mr. Mac Schmitz, Vice President, Investor Relations for Matador. Mr. Schmitz, you may proceed. Mr. Schmitz, your line is open sir.

Mac Schmitz: Thank you, Latif and good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us for Matadors third quarter 2023 earnings conference call. Some of the presenters today will reference certain non-GAAP financial measures regularly used by Matador Resources in measuring the companys financial performance. Reconciliations of such non-GAAP financial measures with the comparable financial measures calculated in accordance with GAAP are contained at the end of the companys earnings press release. As a reminder, certain statements included in this mornings presentation may be forward-looking and reflect the companys current expectations or forecasts of future events based on information that is now available. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

A large oil and natural gas drilling rig in operation, surrounded by a sprawling desert landscape. Editorial photo for a financial news article. 8k. --ar 16:9

Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially is contained in the companys earnings release and its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K in any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. In addition, to our earnings press release issued yesterday, I would like to remind everyone that you can find a slide presentation in connection with the third quarter 2023 earnings release under the Investor Relations tab on our corporate website. And with that, I would now like to turn the call over to Mr. Joe Foran, our Founder, Chairman and CEO. Joe?

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Joe Foran: Thank you, Mac and thank you all for listening in. It's a pleasure to be here today and a pleasure to give you this report. In very simplest terms, we said at the beginning of the year that we began the year at 100,000 BOE equivalent, and we're going to finish the year at 140,000. I was wrong. It's going to be 145,000. And we're pleased to report in addition to production being up, our debt is down, costs are down, and we think our opportunities are also up that the plans that we put into place are proceeding as expected or better than expected and we're excited to report this to you and look for your questions, but we feel we've ended the year 2023 with more inventory, more options, and the outlook for 2024 is even better.

As strong as this year is, I repeat 2024 is better. I would point to you, I had two slides in the materials, which shows -- first one shows our performance over the last five years against our peers as selected and we've done -- we've done performed, we feel like we've outperformed them. And the second one is more interesting is our performance since the IPO. The team has made great strides. I give them the credit. People are really working well together. They've come up with good ideas and Matador has continued to grow. When we went public, we were about $300 million and today the market cap is somewhere around $7.5 billion. But it should get better as the year goes along. We've given projections, but they are confident they will all be realized.

I think on slide B, some that struck me as we prepared this was that three times we have announced what were very meaningful deals to us. The first one was the HEYCO deal and immediately announcing it, we thought anticipating it would go up but things went down, which was a big surprise to us. And then when we bought the BLM leases, again, we thought the market would easily recognize the potential of these wells. We have now drilled close to 90 wells on these leases, but instead of going up, things plunged. And in this deal, besides 98 wells happening and the production from them, we -- it enabled us to go from 98% of our wells being one mile laterals to 98% of our wells being two miles or more. And you see the dramatic effect of that. Right after that, as things started to stabilize, we ran into COVID, and things plunged again.

But as we turned on the state line wells, and these wells were paid now in less than a year, at some even paid out at $20 a barrel, you can see where that's taken us to much higher levels. Now, we had -- and again, but the third time was the charm. We had announced the advance bill and instead of going up, it went down again. So, but since then, things have been going good for us, as you can see, as we've increased the production, as I mentioned, first of the year, 100,000, and at the end of the year, pretty simple math, 145,000. We're headed in the right direction. Now, just again, a brief history of our Delaware position, we started when we went public in 2012. At that time, we had six wells. This is slide C. Five years later, in 2017, we've got 212 and now in 2023 we have 751 wells.

And our market cap has increased and all the other important categories have too, including the dividend. And it's with pleasure. We like dividends here. I would like to emphasize that. We're all large shareholders, and over 95% of our employees are participating in the employees' purchase plan of our stock. So I appreciate the vote of confidence from the staff. We're going to try to deliver, but again, pleased that we've had four raises of the dividend, and now we're at $0.85. The other progress as you get into it, so we've got production up. Our costs are down. We think our inventory selection is better than ever, and debt is down, $200 million. So were at $500 million. We have almost $1 billion in availability under our RBL with our bank group.

So we think we're ready for the opportunities that will come along this year. And but want to answer or address any concerns that you might have. But again, I'm just stating simply that I think you can count on us to perform even better in 2024 than in 2023. And we're making plans accordingly because you have a lot of volatility and uncertainty that we're trying to be ready for everything, not only on the operations side, but in the -- in the world and in Congress and all the other things has happened in whichever way it goes, we're confident we have a good plan to make progress. So with that, I'll open up the floor for questions.

Mac Schmitz: Lateef, we'll jump into Q&A. Thanks.

See also 15 States with No Income Tax or Sales Tax and 20 States with the Highest Unemployment Rates.

To continue reading the Q&A session, please click here.
Key Insights

Mewah International's significant private companies ownership suggests that the key decisions are influenced by shareholders from the larger public

A total of 3 investors have a majority stake in the company with 51% ownership

Insiders own 21% of Mewah International

A look at the shareholders of Mewah International Inc. (SGX:MV4) can tell us which group is most powerful. With 55% stake, private companies possess the maximum shares in the company. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

And individual investors on the other hand have a 24% ownership in the company.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Mewah International, beginning with the chart below.

Check out our latest analysis for Mewah International

What Does The Lack Of Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Mewah International?

We don't tend to see institutional investors holding stock of companies that are very risky, thinly traded, or very small. Though we do sometimes see large companies without institutions on the register, it's not particularly common.

There are many reasons why a company might not have any institutions on the share registry. It may be hard for institutions to buy large amounts of shares, if liquidity (the amount of shares traded each day) is low. If the company has not needed to raise capital, institutions might lack the opportunity to build a position. Alternatively, there might be something about the company that has kept institutional investors away. Institutional investors may not find the historic growth of the business impressive, or there might be other factors at play. You can see the past revenue performance of Mewah International, for yourself, below.

Hedge funds don't have many shares in Mewah International. The company's largest shareholder is Eighteen Tenth Nineteen Forty Four Inc, with ownership of 24%. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 19% and 8.3% of the stock.

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After doing some more digging, we found that the top 3 shareholders collectively control more than half of the company's shares, implying that they have considerable power to influence the company's decisions.

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. Our information suggests that there isn't any analyst coverage of the stock, so it is probably little known.

Insider Ownership Of Mewah International

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 most recent data indicates that insiders own a reasonable proportion of Mewah International Inc.. Insiders have a S$82m stake in this S$398m business. We would say this shows alignment with shareholders, but it is worth noting that the company is still quite small; some insiders may have founded the business. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 24% stake in Mewah International. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Private Company Ownership

It seems that Private Companies own 55%, of the Mewah International 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.

Next Steps:

While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Be aware that Mewah International is showing 2 warning signs in our investment analysis , and 1 of those is potentially serious...

If you would prefer check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, backed by strong financial data.

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.
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2023 /CNW/ - Catherine Karakatsanis, P.Eng., Chief Operating Officer at Morrison Hershfield, is the new president of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). She is the first woman president in the organization's 110-year history.

Catherine Karakatsanis, M.E.Sc., P.Eng., FEC, FCAE, ICD.D. Chief Operating Officer at Morrison Hershfield, and President of FIDIC. (CNW Group/Morrison Hershfield)

FIDIC is the global advocacy body for national associations of consulting engineers and represents business and commercial interests of over 40,000 firms in more than 100 countries. Ms. Karakatsanis joined FIDIC's Board in 2020 and was elected Vice President in 2021. In her new role as President, she looks forward to working in partnership with member associations to advance FIDIC's important work. Ms. Karakatsanis believes FIDIC plays an significant role in providing a global perspective that can facilitate collective action to advance the engineering profession and deal with the prevailing issues facing our planet.

"The world is facing pressing challenges on many fronts, including climate change, clean water, clean and affordable energy, good health and infrastructure needs, all amid wide disparities in standard of living. We are in the enviable position that the public, otherwise worried about the future, can trust us as professionals who put public welfare above all else," said Ms. Karakatsanis.

Impactful Leader

Ms. Karakatsanis' FIDIC tenure continues her impressive career of industry involvement and volunteer work that has spanned over thirty years. She has also held professional regulatory and advocacy body leadership roles with Engineers Canada, Professional Engineers Ontario and Ontario Society of Professional Engineers. She has served on numerous boards and foundations, including Hydro One Inc., Engineers Without Borders Canada, Canadian Engineering Memorial Foundation and the Hellenic Heritage Foundation. A proud Western University alumnus, Ms. Karakatsanis has served on the University's Board of Governors, Engineering Advisory Council, and on various outreach and student programs.

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At Morrison Hershfield

Ms. Karakatsanis' professional career at Morrison Hershfield began over three decades ago as a structural engineer and her contributions over the years are immeasurable. She advanced through a series of technical, management and leadership positions, and was elected to the firm's Board of Directors in 2005. She became Chief Operating Officer in 2012 and continues in this role today.

Ms. Karakatsanis is responsible for the technical and operational delivery of the firm's projects and provides day-to-day leadership, strategy and management for over 1,000 personnel. She has made a conscientious commitment to exemplifying and encouraging outstanding leadership within Morrison Hershfield and the industry.

"As an engineer, I have a deep love and immense pride for the profession. Engineers are in a position to directly enhance the well-being of society through our work, and that is incredibly rewarding, Over the years I've had the privelege of working with some of the most talented professionals in the field who have inspired me with their vision, expertise and commitment to excellence. I look forward to continuing to work closely with my leadership team and all dedicated MHers as we strive to fulfil our 2025 Ambition Strategic Plan and to maintain our steady growth in the marketplace," said Ms. Karakatsanis.

Champion of Gender Equity

Ms. Karakatsanis has consistently used her influence to create an environment to promote and mentor other talented women. She is a devoted advocate for creating a more diverse profession and has been a champion of women's issues.

"For over 30 years, Catherine has been blazing a path for women in engineering. She is a visionary, transformative force who thrives on making things happen. Catherine has had an immeasurable impact on Canadian society and her achievements in this traditionally male-dominated field, have paved the way for other women to follow in her footsteps," said Ken Coley, P.Eng., Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Western University.

At Morrison Hershfield, she promoted policies that improved working conditions and opportunities for professional women. Her leadership, advocacy and contributions to mentoring and influencing young women to pursue STEM careers and specifically engineering as a profession, are significant. Using her own personal experiences as motivation, she continues to break down barriers and educate business leaders in management positions on the issues women face and the benefits of a more balanced workplace.

Industry Recognition

Ms. Karakatsanis has consistently been recognized for her contributions to Morrison Hershfield, the engineering profession and her community. She received Canada's highest engineering distinction for an individual's achievement in their chosen field  the Gold Medal from Engineers Canada and was awarded Professional Engineers Ontario's highest engineering distinctions  the Gold Medal and the rank of Companion. She was inducted into the Canadian Academy of Engineering as a Fellow, and into Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women Hall of Fame. She also received the Governor General of Canada Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers. Earlier this year, Ms. Karakatsanis was honoured with one of Canadian Consulting Engineering Magazine's first Lifetime Achievement Awards , and an Honorary Doctorate from Western University.

About Morrison Hershfield : Morrison Hershfield is a market leading, employee-owned professional engineering and management firm that has been making a difference for over 77 years. We deliver technically sophisticated, cost effective and sustainable infrastructure solutions across the globe.

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SOURCE Morrison Hershfield

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Operating income of $181.0 million, down from $205.2 million in Q3 2022

Net income of $132.7 million, compared to $154.5 million in the same period last year

Diluted EPS of $1.17, down from $1.37 in Q3 2022

Net sales of $819.8 million, a decrease from $944.8 million in Q3 2022





On October 24, 2023, Mueller Industries Inc (NYSE:MLI) announced its financial results for the third quarter of 2023. The company reported a decrease in operating income, net income, diluted EPS, and net sales compared to the same period in 2022.

Financial Highlights





The company's operating income for the quarter was $181.0 million, down from $205.2 million in Q3 2022. Net income also decreased to $132.7 million from $154.5 million in the same period last year. Diluted EPS was $1.17, down from $1.37 in Q3 2022. Net sales decreased to $819.8 million from $944.8 million in Q3 2022.

The decrease in net sales was primarily due to reduced demand in the wholesale channel as distributors continued to rebalance inventory levels, particularly for products utilized in residential construction. The company also sold a majority interest in its PEX plastic piping business on July 3, 2023, which contributed $11.2 million in net sales in the prior year quarter.

Financial Position





Net cash provided by operations was $247.7 million, and cash plus short-term investments were $1.10 billion at quarter end. The company's current ratio increased to 6.0 to 1. On September 26, 2023, the Companys Board of Directors declared a two-for-one stock split in the form of a 100% stock dividend. The record date for the stock split was October 6, 2023, and the dividend was distributed on stockholders on October 20, 2023.

CEO's Commentary





Our businesses have aptly adjusted to the expected tempering of demand in 2023 following the unrestrained demand levels that occurred in 2022. Nonetheless, business conditions at these levels are historically favorable. In addition, we are executing on a number of strategic investments and capacity rationalizations that we expect will continue to yield favorable cost improvements. - Greg Christopher, Muellers CEO

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Company Overview





Mueller Industries Inc (NYSE:MLI) is an industrial corporation whose holdings manufacture vital goods for important markets such as air, water, oil and gas distribution; climate comfort; food preservation; energy transmission; medical; aerospace; and automotive. It includes a network of companies and brands throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Explore the complete 8-K earnings release (here) from Mueller Industries Inc for further details.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus.


TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2023 / Nextech3D.AI (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), a Generative AI-Powered 3D model supplier for Amazon, P&G, Kohls and other major e-commerce retailers is pleased to announce it has signed an enterprise 3D modeling contract with Kabbani Furniture, a major furniture retailer in Egypt. With 4 main branches, 18 Sub-branches, 7 factories, and over 2000 employees in 7 different governorates, Kabbani Furniture is considered the number 1 furniture seller and manufacturer in Egypt.

Kabbani Furniture's initial purchase order is for 500 3D models, which represents a small fraction of total SKU's. This deal also represents a significant growth opportunity, with the potential to grow with Kabbani's large network of retailers.



Nextech3D.AI is at the forefront of the growing 3D modeling industry. With its cutting edge generative-AI technology, the Company is able to create photo-realistic 4K 3D models that cater to the specific needs of major e-commerce giants including Amazon and others.

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About Nextech3D.ai

Nextech3D.ai or the "Company," (OTCQX:NEXCF)(CSE:NTAR)(FSE:EP2), is a versatile augmented reality and AI technology company that utilizes its proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) to craft immersive 3D experiences at scale for E-COMMERCE. The Company's primary focus lies in creating high-quality 3D WebAR photorealistic models for Amazon and various other online retailers. Nextech3D.ai has adopted a unique approach to creating shareholder value beyond its operating business of creating 3D models.

The Company also develops or acquires disruptive AI-technologies, which are subsequently spun out to shareholders as standalone public companies. This spin-out strategy allows Nextech3D.ai to issue stock dividends to its shareholders while maintaining significant ownership in the public spin-out, without dilution to the parent company Nextech3D.ai.

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Notably, Nextech3D.ai successfully spun out "ARway," (OTCQB:ARWYF)(CSE:ARWY)(FSE:E65) its spatial computing platform, as a standalone public company on October 26, 2022. The Company retains a 49% stake with 13 million shares in ARway Corp. while distributing 4 million shares to Nextech shareholders.

Similarly, Nextech3D.ai accomplished its second spin-out launching Toggle3D.ai, (OTCQB:TGGLF)(CSE: TGGL)(FSE:Q0C) an AI-powered 3D design studio aimed at competing with Adobe. The Company retains a 44% stake with 13 million shares in Toggle3D.ai Corp.

To learn more, please follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook, or visit our website: https://www.Nextechar.com.

For further information, please contact:

Investor Relations Contact

Julia Viola

investor.relations@nextechar.com

Nextech3D.ai

Evan Gappelberg

CEO and Director

866-ARITIZE (274-8493)

Forward-looking Statements

The CSE has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Certain information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "will be" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements regarding the completion of the transaction are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as 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. Nextech will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

SOURCE: Nextech3D.ai





View source version on accesswire.com:

https://www.accesswire.com/796512/nextech3dai-signs-new-3d-modeling-contract-with-top-luxury-furniture-company-kabbani-furniture




Hugo Becks ability to deliver the speed, accuracy and versatility required for food packaging will be showcased at this years Gulfood Manufacturing exhibition.

Helping manufacturers meet the ever-increasing demand for flexible and sustainable packaging concepts, Hugo Beck is a market leader in horizontal film and paper packaging machines, which help to reduce material consumption, drive greater efficiency, and improve recyclability.

The event, taking place from November 7 to 9 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will provide the ideal arena to see Hugo Becks latest film and paper packaging solutions for primary and secondary packaging, alongside its diverse range of packaging styles for markets such as food & beverage, confectionery, household goods, as well as e-commerce and logistics.

Sustainable film and paper

Visitors to booth S1-F58, in the German Pavilion, Shk Saeed Hall 1 will have the chance to discuss Hugo Becks comprehensive range of packaging solutions, which are capable of processing all sustainable film and paper types. These include film and shrink-wrapping machinery, flowpack machines and automation solutions.

Company representatives will be present at the booth throughout the event, providing expert advice on how Hugo Becks packaging solutions can meet industry specific needs. In addition, attendees can also learn about the companys commitment to sustainability and how Hugo Becks solutions are directly contributing to reducing environmental impact in packaging.

We are excited to participate in Gulfood Manufacturing 2023, which is a significant event for the food processing industry, said Timo Kollmann, Managing Director at Hugo Beck. Our team is eager to showcase our latest packaging innovations and discuss how our solutions are revolutionising packaging processes for our customers.--TradeArabia News Service
(Bloomberg) -- Oil fell as a drop in wider financial markets and softer real-world prices dented gains from Israels planned ground invasion of Gaza.

Most Read from Bloomberg

West Texas Intermediate fell to settle near $83 a barrel, adding to a two-week string of sessions in which prices have swung in a range of more than $2. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his nation was in a battle for its very existence and that an invasion was being prepared. The countrys armed forces said they had entered northern Gaza to attack cells overnight before exiting the area.

The turbulent price action continues to whipsaw algorithmic trend followers and could spark selling by commodity trading advisers, said Dan Ghali, a commodity strategist at TD Securities.

But prices of low-sulfur barrels have tumbled this week, denting faith in how tight supplies are. That has shown up in key gauges of market health, with nearby timespreads softening markedly. Equity markets were also lower, and the dollar firmed on Thursday, making commodities priced in the currency less appealing.

The widely expected ground offensive had been delayed to allow the US to deploy air-defense systems in the region, according to the Wall Street Journal. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to avert a wider war continued, with French President Emmanuel Macron saying a massive ground operation would be a mistake during a visit to the region. The flurry of headlines has bolstered intraday oil price volatility over the last few weeks.

Beyond the Middle East, US stockpiles rose by 1.37 million barrels last week, Energy Information Administration data showed. Inventories at the Cushing, Oklahoma, storage hub expanded by 213,000 barrels. Physical oil markets across the world are also seeing a slump in prices as profits from making fuels such as gasoline dip ahead of the winter season.

Story continues

Terminal users can click here for more on the Israel-Hamas War.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Key Insights

Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Heineken fair value estimate is 170

Current share price of 85.52 suggests Heineken is potentially 50% undervalued

Analyst price target for HEIA is 103 which is 40% below our fair value estimate

In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Heineken N.V. (AMS:HEIA) by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Before you think you won't be able to understand it, just read on! It's actually much less complex than you'd imagine.

We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you.

Check out our latest analysis for Heineken

Crunching The Numbers

We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To 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:

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10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast

2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 2.98b 3.47b 3.95b 4.10b 4.20b 4.27b 4.34b 4.39b 4.43b 4.47b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x9 Analyst x9 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 2.45% Est @ 1.87% Est @ 1.47% Est @ 1.19% Est @ 0.99% Est @ 0.85% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 4.8% 2.8k 3.2k 3.4k 3.4k 3.3k 3.2k 3.1k 3.0k 2.9k 2.8k

("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St)

Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 31b

We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 0.5%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 4.8%.

Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033  (1 + g)  (r  g) = 4.5b (1 + 0.5%)  (4.8% 0.5%) = 105b

Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 105b ( 1 + 4.8%)10= 65b

The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is 96b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of 85.5, the company appears quite good value at a 50% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind.

dcf

Important Assumptions

Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. 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 Heineken 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 4.8%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.859. 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 Heineken

Strength

Debt is well covered by earnings.

Weakness

Earnings declined over the past year.

Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Beverage 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

Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow.

Dividends are not covered by cash flow.

Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the Dutch market.

Moving On:

Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. Rather it should be seen as a guide to "what assumptions need to be true for this stock to be under/overvalued?" If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. Why is the intrinsic value higher than the current share price? For Heineken, there are three essential factors you should look at:

Risks: For example, we've discovered 2 warning signs for Heineken (1 is a bit concerning!) that you should be aware of before investing here. Future Earnings: How does HEIA's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other High Quality Alternatives: Do you like a good all-rounder? Explore our interactive list of high quality stocks to get an idea of what else is out there you may be missing!

PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every Dutch stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
The Insight Partners

Phosphate Salts Market is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.5% from 2022 to 2030

Pune, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to our new research study on Phosphate Salts Market Forecast to 2030  COVID-19 Impact and Global Analysis  by Grade, Type and Application, the phosphate salts market size is expected to grow from US$ 8.94 Billion in 2022 to US$ 14.85 Billion by 2030; it is estimated to record a CAGR of 6.5% from 2022 to 2030. The report highlights key factors driving the phosphate salts market growth and prominent players along with their developments in the market.

Get Sample PDF: https://www.theinsightpartners.com/sample/TIPRE00030246





Phosphate Salts Market: Competition Landscape

The Mosaic Company; OCP Group; EuroChem Group AG; Israel Chemicals Ltd.; Nutrien Ltd.; Innophos Holdings Inc.; ICL Fertilizers; Yara International ASA; Prayon SA; and Solvay S.A. are a few players operating in the global Phosphate Salts market. Players operating in the global Phosphate Salts market focus on providing high-quality products to fulfill customer demand.

Phosphate salts are chemical compounds that contain phosphate ions (PO4^3-) combined with various positively charged ions, such as sodium, potassium, calcium, or ammonium. These salts are derived from phosphoric acid (H3PO4) and are widely used in various industries and applications due to their versatile chemical properties. The largest application of phosphate salts is in the production of fertilizers, as they are essential nutrients for plant growth. Phosphate salts are also used in the food and beverage industry as a food additive, in water treatment to prevent corrosion and scale formation, and in the pharmaceutical industry as a buffering agent and for other medicinal purposes.

Phosphate salts, including monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate, and trisodium phosphate, were utilized as food additives for purposes such as pH control, texture modification, and moisture retention in processed foods. Moreover, in the agricultural sector, phosphate salts played a pivotal role as essential components of fertilizers, providing plants with the crucial nutrient phosphorus. With the need for enhanced crop yields and sustainable agriculture practices, the market was experiencing increased demand for innovative phosphate-based fertilizers. Additionally, the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors relied on phosphate salts for applications ranging from excipients in pharmaceuticals to water treatment.

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The report includes the segmentation of the global phosphate salts market as follows:

The global phosphate salts market is divided on the basis of grade, type and application. Based on grade, the phosphate salts market is segmented into food, technical, and pharmaceutical. Based on type, the phosphate salts market is segmented into monosodium phosphate, disodium phosphate, monopotassium phosphate, trisodium phosphate, and others. Based on application, the phosphate salts market is segmented into agriculture, water treatment, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and others. By geography, the global phosphate salts market is broadly segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America. The North America phosphate salts market is further segmented into the US, Canada, and Mexico. The market in Europe is subsegmented into Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Russia, and the Rest of Europe. The Asia Pacific phosphate salts market is further segmented into China, India, Japan, Australia, South Korea, and the Rest of Asia Pacific. The Middle East & Africa market is further segmented into South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the Rest of Middle East & Africa. The South & Central America phosphate salts market is further segmented into Brazil, Argentina, and the Rest of South & Central America.





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Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Phosphate Salts Market

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries reported economic growth, whereas Phosphate Salts manufacturers invested in research to develop advanced technology and improve production efficiency. The chemicals & materials industry announced a slowdown of manufacturing operations and shutdown, as well as projected a slump in Phosphate Salts sales. Thus, major companies involved in Phosphate Salts production faced the hardest hit during the initial phase of the pandemic due to sudden government restrictions on the manufacturing of nonessential commodities. In 2021, several developed economies began recovering from the losses incurred in 2020 as governments of various countries announced relaxation in social restrictions. Manufacturers were permitted to operate at full capacities, which helped them cope with the demand-supply gap. With economies reviving their operations, the demand for Phosphate Salts started rising globally as the automotive, aerospace, and electrical & electronics industries resumed their operations at full capacity.





Go through further research published by The Insight Partners: (Purchase with 10% Instant Discount):

Phosphate Esters Market Global Analysis and Forecast to 2030

Lithium Salts Market Global Analysis and Forecast to 2030

Micronized Salt Market Global Analysis and Forecast to 2030





About Us:

The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials.





Contact Us:

If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us:

Contact Person: Ankit Mathur

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Phone: +1-646-491-9876




Pixium Vision

Pixium Vision announces its financial results for H1 2023 and provides update

Post period event: Received shareholder loan of 3 million from BPIFrance and Sofinnova. Extension of the maturity of outstanding notes 1.25 million, Implemented a reverse stock split, exchanging 50 old to 1 current share, applied for and obtained safeguard proceeding, applied for conversion of the safeguard proceeding to a court-ordered receivership and announced the opening of a process to find a buyer

Current cash runway until was extended to the end of December 2023 with the opening of the safeguard proceeding

Cash position at 30 June 2023 was 3.7 million





Paris, France, October 26, 2023  7:00 (CET)  Pixium Vision SA (Euronext Growth Paris - FR001400JX97; Mnemo: ALPIX), a bioelectronics company developing innovative vision systems to enable patients who have lost their sight to live more independent lives, announces its financial results for the first half of 2023. The H1 2023 financial statements were approved by Pixium Visions Board of Directors at its meeting on 25 October 2023.

Despite implementing the below measures the strict control of operating expenses and extensive attempts to find appropriate financing as well as alternative options for the Company worldwide, Pixium Vision does not have sufficient resources to finance its operations until after the end of December 2023.

Received in July 2023 a shareholder loan of 3m from Bpifrance and Sofinnova to extend the cash runway, providing more flexibility to pursue the Companys longer-term funding needs to support its strategic ambitions.

Our request for an accelerated payment of the Research Tax Credit for the year 2022 for an amount of EUR 1,829,961 was granted and paid during H1 2023.

Freeze of the maturities due under the State-guaranteed loans granted to the Company by Bpifrance and CIC was extended until end of September 2023.

Rescheduling request for the majority of the social security liabilities for H1 2023 was granted for the repayment in 24 months

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In light of this short-term liquidity risk and the lack of new financing obtained to date, Pixium Vision applied for the opening of safeguard proceedings to the Commercial Court in Paris which was obtained on October 9, 2023, extending the cash runway until the end of December 2023. Having been unable to find financial investors within the restricted timeframe, and in consideration of the Company's needs, the management considered that a safeguard plan was no longer an option. As a result, on October 18, 2023, the Company announced the filing for conversion of the safeguard proceeding into a court-ordered receivership and furthermore announced the opening of a process to find a buyer.

In this context, the financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, based on the situation existing at the balance sheet date.

This situation gives rise to significant uncertainty as to the going concern assumption, as in the event of an unfavorable outcome of the receivership proceedings, the company will not be in a position to realize its assets and settle its liabilities in the normal course of business, and the application of IFRS as adopted in the European Union in the normal context of continuing operations, particularly in regards to the valuation of assets and liabilities, could prove inappropriate.

Given the above, our auditors were unable to express a conclusion on the condensed half-yearly consolidated financial statements.

Analysis of H1 2023

Income statement summary In thousands of euros H1 2023 H1 2022 Change Operating revenue 896.8 1,043.8 (14.1) % Current operating expenses (6,573.9) (7,148.5) (8.0) % Research and Development (4,133.9) (4,086.1) +1.2 % General and administrative expenses (2,440.0) (3,062.4) (20.3) % Operating loss (5,677.1) (6,104.7) (7.0) % Net loss for the period (5,819.9) (5,614.3) +3.7 % Net earnings per share (0.07) (0.12)

Operating revenue amounted to 0.9 million and is mainly comprised of Research Tax Credit (CIR).

Research and Development (R&D) expenses remained at a similar level and totalled 4.1 million in H1 2023, 48 thousand below previous year. During the first half of 2023, Pixium Vision continued to support its clinical studies, mainly the PRIMAvera study, but also the feasibility studies in Europe and the US. In addition, the Group continued to develop and manufacture its Prima bionic vision system to ensure availability for the ongoing studies.

Current general and administrative (G&A) expenses decreased in H1 2023 by 0.6 million, totalling 2.4 million, compared to 3.1 million in H1 2022. The decrease is mainly due to H1 2022 costs for legal and financial services in preparation of various financing options.

Operating result presented a loss of 5.7 million, which is 0.4 lower than in H1 2022 (6.1 million). Net result was a loss of 5.8 million (compared to a loss of 5.6 million in H1 2022). The loss per share is limited to 0.07 in H1 2023 compared to 0.12 in H1 2022.



Statement of cash flows summary In thousands of euros H1 2023 H1 2022 Opening cash and cash equivalents 7,687.4 14,504.9 (Decrease)/Increase in cash position (3,949.3) (7,283.6) O/W net cash flows from operating activities (3,945.7) (7,064.1) O/W net cash flows from investment activities (5.3) (26.8) O/W net cash flows from financing activities 2.5 (196.4) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash (0.8) 3.7 Closing cash and cash equivalents 3,738.1 7,221.2

Net cash outflow from operating activities decreased in H1 2023 to 3.9 million, compared to 7.1 million in H1 2022. The decrease in net cash outflow mainly reflects the accelerated payment of the research tax credit of 1.8 million.

Net cash flows from financing activities totalled 3 thousand for H1 2023. In H1 2022, financing activities reflected (0.2) million primarily related to the repayment of lease liabilities under IFRS16.

Pixium Vision ended H1 2023 with a net cash position of 3.7 million, compared to 7.2 million a year earlier.

Update on Pixium Visions business

After the successful completion of enrolment of 38 patients in Pixium Visions European PRIMAvera pivotal trial in December 2022, we have focused on enabling and ensuring the successful rehabilitation of all our patients in H1 2023. The European PRIMAvera pivotal trial, evaluating the safety and efficacy of the Prima System in patients affected by dry Age-related Macular Degeneration (dry AMD), is intended to restore vision, targeting to report on initial data read out of data in H1 2024.

Our French feasibility study is still ongoing and 48-month data is in the peer review process, targeted to be published by the end of 2023.

In the US Pixium Vision received breakthrough device designation from the FDA in March 2023, and we are in the process to negotiate our US pivotal study that is expected to be approved by mid-2024. Results from our US feasibility study are estimated in the first half of next year.

Further events of H1 2023:

On 12 January 2023, Pixium Vision announced the 3 peer-reviewed publications amongst others demonstrating the potential of the next-generation PRIMA implant, with the potential to achieve up to 20/20 vision with magnification.

After 30 June 2023, Pixium Vision received a shareholder loan of 3 million from Bpifrance and Sofinnova extending the cash runway to the end of December 2023.

On 28 July 2023, a reverse stock split was announced, exchanging 50 old Pixium Vision shares for 1 new share.

Furthermore, on 11 July 2023 Pixium Vision announced the extension of the maturity of the outstanding notes amounting to 1.25 million (associated with the terminated ESGO financing facility) to 13 January 2024.

About Pixium Vision

Pixium Vision is creating a world of bionic vision for those who have lost their sight, enabling them to regain visual perception and greater autonomy. Pixium Visions bionic vision systems are associated with a surgical intervention and a rehabilitation period. Prima System sub-retinal miniature photovoltaic wireless implant is in clinical testing for patients who have lost their sight due to outer retinal degeneration, initially for atrophic dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD). Pixium Vision collaborates closely with academic and research partners, including some of the most prestigious vision research institutions in the world, such as Stanford University in California, Institut de la Vision in Paris, Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, Institute of Ocular Microsurgery (IMO) in Barcelona, University hospital in Bonn, and UPMC in Pittsburgh, PA. The Company is EN ISO 13485 certified and qualifies as Entreprise Innovante by Bpifrance.

Forward-Looking Statements. This press release contains certain forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, these forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. For a discussion of risks and uncertainties which could cause the Company's actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, please refer to the Risk Factors (Facteurs de Risques) section of the Companys 2022 Annual Financial Report and other documents the Company files with the AMF, which is available on the AMF website (www.amf- france.org) or on the Companys website.

For more information: http://www.pixium-vision.com/fr

Follow us on @PixiumVision ; www.facebook.com/pixiumvision

www.linkedin.com/company/pixium-vision

Contacts

Investor Relations



Pixium Vision

Offer Nonhoff

Chief Financial Officer

investors@pixium-vision.com



Media Relations



Rose Piquante Consulting

Sophie Baumont

Sophie.baumont@rosepiquante-consulting.com

+33 6 27 74 74 49

Attachment




Several professionals told Insider what made them finally leave big tech  and what they're doing now. Courtesy Jerry Lee, Mayuko Inoue, Dayana Sabatin., Rahul Pandey; Jenny Chang-Rodriguez/Insider

Insider spoke to people who left well-paying jobs in tech due to overwhelming workloads and stress.

Some left behind prestigious roles to pursue their passions, while others quit tech due to burnout.

One said staying at Meta would've ensured financial security, but he knew it wasn't right for him.

In a world where high-paying tech roles are highly coveted, many professionals are choosing alternative paths over big paychecks. Some left behind their glamorous roles to pursue their passions, and some quit tech due to burnout.

These 10 professionals share what finally made them leave big tech  and what they're doing now.

Eric Yu quit his $370K software engineer job at Meta after having panic attacks

Eric Yu was a software engineer at Meta and experienced panic attacks due to work pressure.

"In November 2019, I experienced my first panic attack while I was working from home. It was around 4 p.m., and my left pinky went completely numb. At first, I ignored it, but it got worse: An hour in, my ears were ringing, and my heart was beating really fast."

Now, Yu and his fiancee have started house hacking, a lower-cost way of getting into real estate. They bought a five-bedroom home in Redding, California, four hours north of San Francisco. While they lived in a 252-square-foot detached guest house in the backyard, their main house was bringing in about $8,000 a month in revenue on Airbnb.

Yu told Insider that he knows it sounds crazy to leave a $370,000 job, and staying at Meta for the rest of his life would have ensured financial security, but he knew it wasn't right for him.

Read more: I quit my $370K job at Meta after having panic attacks and hitting the lowest point of my life. I just knew the job wasn't right for me.

Sergio Najera quit a six-figure engineering job because the company didn't allow international travel

During the pandemic, Najera was working as a software engineer at a major corporation based in Minneapolis. He had been dreaming of traveling abroad for a long time. However, the company was very strict on employee travel policy. If he wanted to work outside of Minnesota, he would need special permission.

Story continues

He decided to quit and take a startup job because it would give her the flexibility to work from wherever he wanted to. "I've traveled to Spain, Morocco, the Netherlands, and Argentina. Next, I'm planning trips to Brazil and Chile."

Read more: I quit my six-figure tech job because I couldn't work abroad. Now I make half the money at a startup but get to travel wherever I want.

Mayuko Inoue left her tech job due to panic attacks

Mayuko Inoue is a former iOS software engineer at Patreon and Netflix. She started to get panic attacks and learned her anxiety stemmed from overexerting herself at work.

Inoue told Insider that "Work hard, play hard" is a mentality that echoes throughout tech offices, and hustle culture seems like this aggressive, masculine personality (though that's probably because the tech industry is very male-dominated).

"I saw that what lures people into hustle culture is the idea of working for financial stability, finding status, or feeling that you're changing the world. It can feel contagious and impossible to escape."

Read more: I left Silicon Valley because tech 'hustle culture' was too much for me to handle

Michael Lin quit his job as a Netflix engineer making $450,000 a year and has zero regrets

Michael Lin joined Netflix in 2017 as a senior software engineer. At first, he enjoyed his role.

However, over the next two years, the shine began to wear off. Lin told Insider that the projects and meetings blended together, and they felt like small variations of each other after a while. The engineering work began to feel like copy and paste.

After quitting Netflix, Lin was worried that he'd have no social life. But the opposite happened  he's met more people through starting his own business, like other entrepreneurs, writers, and creators. "I now feel a deep calmness inside me, an unshakable belief that everything will be OK, even if any future success is not guaranteed right now."

Read more:I quit my job as a Netflix engineer making $450,000 a year and I have zero regrets. Here's why it was the best decision for me.

Jerry Lee quit his $198,000 job at Google to build his startup

Jerry Lee is a former strategy and operations manager at Google. He told Insider that after working at Google, he felt like he got a mini MBA.

Lee told Insider that he's grateful for all the lessons that his managers and his teams taught him, and he still uses them to run his startup today.

"But certainly, my job at Google was stressful: We worked on a global team and some coworkers were based in Europe and Asia. So we had meetings at 5 or 6 a.m. on Tuesdays and at 11 p.m. every Wednesday. I felt I always had to give 110% every single day because my colleagues were extremely smart and hardworking."

Read more: Here is exactly how much I made at Google in a strategy role and why I chose to leave

Rahul Pandey left his $800K job at Meta to build his own startup

In 2017, Rahul Pandey he joined Facebook (now known as Meta) as a senior engineer and worked there for almost five years. His compensation at Meta rapidly increased to more than $800,000 a year.

In 2022, he left Meta to start Taro, a community to help other engineers achieve similar career success.

Pandey said that he left Meta as a much better engineer compared to when I joined in 2017. "I attribute this to a mindset shift around building deep relationships at work. I understood that asking questions is a prerequisite for growth within a complex, fast-moving team. I was able to receive actionable feedback from colleagues, which allowed me to identify and deliver high-impact projects."

Read more: I made over $800K at Meta. Here's how I significantly increased my compensation.

Mitchie Nguyen left her $196,000 tech job at Meta to build her creator-economy startup

Mitchie Nguyen spent about six years working in the tech industry at companies such as LinkedIn, Meta, and Google.

Nguyen told Insider that many people talk about salary bumps as a benefit of job-hopping. However, her No. 1 reason and motivation has always been to gain a breadth of experience.

"When you're starting out in your career, it's important to explore roles and build a network in new companies. Through all these jobs, I gained confidence and skills from sales to product marketing. That's why I quit her job at Meta to start my own startup in the creator economy."

"I realized my 20s was my time to explore roles and industries. Our careers span upwards of 40 years, so I wanted to take full advantage of exploring  I feel the later you get in your career, the harder it is to drop off and do something else."

Read more: Here's how much I made at Google, Meta, and LinkedIn  and why I ultimately left my $196,000 tech job

Dayana Sabatin quit her job in tech in Seattle because she felt miserable with her career

Sabatin used to work in a cubicle for eight to 10 hours a day as a financial specialist at a tech company in Seattle. Feeling beyond miserable, she decided she wanted to change her life. She made the decision to move to Los Angeles and is now a writer, blogger and YouTuber.

"I can confidently say I'm on the right path now, and I've never felt more excited about the direction my life is headed in. If you feel destined for something outside of what you currently have, then go for it. Don't be afraid to color outside of the lines."

Read more: I quit my tech job in Seattle because I was miserable  here's how I moved to Los Angeles and started over as a freelancer and content creator

One tech worker quit her job due to burnout and has no regrets

This tech worker hit a wall last year after working at a large technology company for about a year and a half. She'd sit on the couch with her partner at the end of each workday and not be able to carry on a conversation. Her job was so demanding that she didn't have energy left over for anything else.

"So, I asked myself: Is this what I want for my life? I'm nearly 30. Do I really want to give up so much for my job? I decided to quit in August."

She has no regrets about quitting, despite a tough job search.

Read more: I'm still happy I quit my tech job even though it's been hard to find a new position

Jonathan Javier left his $120,000 job to build his startup to help people land their dream jobs

Jonathan Javier is a former product operations analyst at Google, Snap, and Cisco. He left his $120,000 job to build his startup, Wonsulting, an AI-powered platform that helps job seekers optimize their resumes, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles.

Javier than told Insider that people need to build their network early on to land their dream job. "Building your network early on makes a big difference in job hunting. Before negotiating compensation, I asked peers who worked at other tech companies what a reasonable pay range might be. With that information, I felt much more confident during interviews. It's better than relying solely on websites like Glassdoor."

Read more: Here's exactly how much I made at Google, Snap, and Cisco in non-technical roles

Read the original article on Business Insider
Raymond James Financial, Inc. (NYSE:RJF) shareholders might be concerned after seeing the share price drop 16% in the last quarter. But over three years, the returns would have left most investors smiling To wit, the share price did better than an index fund, climbing 82% during that period.

Although Raymond James Financial has shed US$1.0b from its market cap this week, let's take a look at its longer term fundamental trends and see if they've driven returns.

Check out our latest analysis for Raymond James Financial

There is no denying that markets are sometimes efficient, but prices do not always reflect underlying business performance. By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time.

Raymond James Financial was able to grow its EPS at 25% per year over three years, sending the share price higher. We don't think it is entirely coincidental that the EPS growth is reasonably close to the 22% average annual increase in the share price. That suggests that the market sentiment around the company hasn't changed much over that time. Au contraire, the share price change has arguably mimicked the EPS growth.

The image below shows how EPS has tracked over time (if you click on the image you can see greater detail).

We know that Raymond James Financial has improved its bottom line lately, but is it going to grow revenue? You could check out this free report showing analyst revenue forecasts.

What About Dividends?

When looking at investment returns, it is important to consider the difference between total shareholder return (TSR) and share price return. The TSR incorporates the value of any spin-offs or discounted capital raisings, along with any dividends, based on the assumption that the dividends are reinvested. Arguably, the TSR gives a more comprehensive picture of the return generated by a stock. As it happens, Raymond James Financial's TSR for the last 3 years was 90%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. The dividends paid by the company have thusly boosted the total shareholder return.

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A Different Perspective

Raymond James Financial shareholders are down 18% for the year (even including dividends), but the market itself is up 9.9%. However, keep in mind that even the best stocks will sometimes underperform the market over a twelve month period. Longer term investors wouldn't be so upset, since they would have made 14%, each year, over five years. It could be that the recent sell-off is an opportunity, so it may be worth checking the fundamental data for signs of a long term growth trend. I find it very interesting to look at share price over the long term as a proxy for business performance. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Raymond James Financial .

But note: Raymond James Financial may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with past earnings growth (and further growth forecast).

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on American exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.
HAZLET - When Karen Gravano and Melissa Green were looking for a place to open their body contouring and wellness spa, Body Depot, they had some choices in the market.

They could have leased a space in one of the various salon suites opening in the area.

A collection of businesses all under one roof, salon suites lease ready-made spaces to health and beauty professionals such as Gravano, an aesthetician, and Green, a cosmetologist, giving them the ability to open their own businesses surrounded by peers.

Instead, they decided on a space on the second floor at Baron's Corner Plaza, a neighborhood shopping center on Union Avenue in Hazlet.

Detail of a mural on the wall. Licensed aestheticians Karen Gravano and Melissa Green have opened Body Depot on the second floor of Baron's Corner shopping center in Hazlet. They join other tenants that are in the beauty and wellness space, including a hair salon, a yoga studio and a message therapist. Hazlet, NJ Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Dead shopping centers come back to life: What's planned in these Monmouth and Ocean towns

Already customers of the nail salon there, when they had looked into it, they found a collection of businesses that would fit with their own. Body Depot opened recently with plans for an official grand opening in December.

"They had a hair salon. They had yoga," said Gravano, a licensed aesthetician. "Everyone had their own private suites."

What's Going There noticed that Baron's Corner has become its own "salon suite."

"This happened organically," Gravano said. "If there is someone who wants to get their hair done, you can just refer them down the hall. It's like a real good vibe and flow."

Licensed aestheticians Karen Gravano and Melissa Green have opened Body Depot on the second floor of Baron's Corner shopping center in Hazlet. They join other tenants that are in the beauty and wellness space, including a hair salon, a yoga studio and a message therapist. Hazlet, NJ Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Feeling good: Salt cave brings the Himalayas to Monmouth, and here's how it helps

Several years ago, Baron's Corner underwent an extensive renovation. La Rosa Chicken moved in, joining other tenants including Gem's House of Bagels, Nails by Sarah, Romeos Pizza and Great Wall, a Chinese restaurant. One Stop Smoke Shop also has a storefront.

The remodel also rebuilt the second floor and created new office spaces. In addition to Body Depot, Born to Dye - a Salon by Shay, Supreme Team Barber Lounge, Balance Massage and Somatic Therapy, and Bodhi Mind and Body Wellness Center have opened.

Story continues

Body Depot's noninvasive services range from infrared ozone treatments and red light body therapy to body contouring, cellulite reduction and fat elimination, as well as facial and scalp rejuvenation.

A red light therapy room for clients. Licensed aestheticians Karen Gravano and Melissa Green have opened Body Depot on the second floor of Baron's Corner shopping center in Hazlet. They join other tenants that are in the beauty and wellness space, including a hair salon, a yoga studio and a message therapist. Hazlet, NJ Tuesday, October 17, 2023

More than pretty rocks: Avon's SoulShine promises better living through crystals

Gravano, a licensed aesthetician since 1997, started her own wellness spa in 2005 in Arizona, returning to New York about five years later. The daughter of former mobster Sammy "the Bull" Gravano, she starred in the VH1 reality series "Mob Wives."

"I stepped out of the industry for a while, but this is my one true passion," she said. "I love beauty. I love skin care."

Gravano said she and Green wanted Body Depot "to be a one-stop shop for wellness and beauty."

'We do it all:' Artemis Ethos holistic salon and spa aims to do more than cut your hair

Licensed aestheticians Karen Gravano and Melissa Green have opened Body Depot on the second floor of Baron's Corner shopping center in Hazlet. They join other tenants that are in the beauty and wellness space, including a hair salon, a yoga studio and a message therapist. Hazlet, NJ Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Kelly Ann Smith, a mental health therapist and yoga instructor, opened Bodhi Mind and Body Wellness Center in March. Besides therapy, she also a room for yoga and "offers gentle and healing classes."

The environment of yoga studios gives off a "positive vibe," she said. "This is a good way for me to offer things for the community, things that help both the mind and the body."

It all fits.

"We all do a little something different, but it is all important for self-care," Smith said. "There is a little something for everyone there in terms of self care and just being mindful of what you need to do in order to take care of yourself."

David P. Willis, an award-winning business writer, has covered business, retail and consumer news at the Asbury Park Press for 25 years. He writes APP.com's What's Going There column and can be reached at dwillis@gannettnj.com. Please sign up for his weekly newsletter and join his What's Going There page on Facebook for updates.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: 'Mob Wives' reality star helps open Body Depot business in Hazlet
NEW YORK and AUSTRALIA, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Rokt , the leading ecommerce technology company using machine learning to make transactions more relevant to each shopper, today announced its partnership with Redbubble, the global online marketplace where independent artists sell print-on-demand products to their customers worldwide. Through the partnership, currently live across 8 regions including US, AU, NZ, CA, UK, FR, DE & ES, Redbubble will unlock new revenue opportunities during the transaction moment on their ecommerce site.

Rokt logo (PRNewsfoto/Rokt)

Rokt's advanced AI technology will help optimise post-purchase offers on the marketplace and create relevant customer experiences for each customer, ultimately driving positive customer engagement, brand loyalty and an additional revenue stream for the brand.

Since launching with Rokt, the Redbubble marketplace has seen significant incremental revenue, generating nearly $500k in revenue to date, across millions of transactions.

"We are thrilled to partner with Redbubble in their mission to unlock new revenue streams and optimise customer experiences," said Craig Galvin, Chief Revenue Officer of Rokt. "Rokt's advanced e-commerce technology powered by AI, combined with Redbubble's vibrant marketplace, creates a powerful synergy to deliver innovative solutions and further accelerate their growth."

"We are very pleased to join forces with Rokt and deliver a relevant shopping journey," said Rebecca Zarate, Chief Marketing Officer of Redbubble. "By harnessing Rokt's cutting-edge AI technology, we are able to provide our users with highly tailored recommendations and a personalised experience, reinforcing our dedication to offering the best possible experience for artists and their customers."

Rokt's collaboration with Redbubble is just one example of the expanding roster of global ecommerce partners they are working with, such as Lyft, Gopuff, ASOS, Mercari and others. Collectively, these partnerships provide advertisers with a valuable chance to enhance their competitive advantage by targeting and engaging with a fresh set of online shoppers who are actively making purchases.

Story continues

To find out more, visit Rokt.com

About Rokt

Rokt is the global leader in ecommerce technology, enabling companies to drive incremental value from every transaction by offering highly relevant messages at the moment customers are most likely to convert. Rokt's machine learning technology has powered billions of global transactions annually for the world's leading companies, including Live Nation, AMC Theatres, PayPal, Uber, Hulu, Staples, Lands' End, and HelloFresh. Founded in Australia, with US headquarters in New York City, the company operates in 15 countries across North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Rokt for a third year in a row joined the fastest-growing private companies in the US on the Inc. 5000 list in 2023.

To learn more, visit Rokt.com .

About Redbubble

Founded in 2006, the Redbubble Group (RB Group) incorporates Redbubble Limited and its subsidiaries including TP Apparel LLC (TeePublic). RB Group owns and operates the leading global marketplaces hosted at Redbubble (redbubble.com) and TeePublic (teepublic.com), powered by independent artists. Redbubble's community of passionate creatives sell uncommon designs on high-quality, everyday products such as apparel, stationery, housewares, bags, wall art and so on. Through the Redbubble and TeePublic marketplaces, independent artists are able to profit from their creativity and reach a new universe of adoring fans. For customers, it's the ultimate in self expression. A simple but meaningful way to show the world who they are and what they care about.

Media Contact

For further information, please contact: Tarana Mehta - VP Marketing tarana.mehta@rokt.com

Cision

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/redbubble-expands-partnership-with-rokt-to-enhance-customer-experience-and-drive-revenue-using-ai-301968495.html

SOURCE ROKT Pte. Ltd.
In this article, we discuss Renaissance Technologies returns, AUM, CEO and top energy stock picks. You can skip our detailed analysis of Renaissance Technologies and its performance over the years and go directly to read Renaissance Technologies Top 5 Energy Stock Picks.

Jim Simons is one of the top hedge fund managers in the world, having generated remarkable returns in his long investment career. With a net worth of $30.7 billion in the investment world, Simons is one of the most successful hedge fund managers.

Medallion Fund, established in 1988 and managed by Renaissance Technologies, has emerged as one of the most successful funds owing to its impressive track record. The flagship Medallion Fund has generated tens of billions of dollars in returns since being set up with an annualized average return of 66%. On the other hand, Renaissance Technologies generated more than $100 billion in profits between 1988 and 2020. The hedge fund reported over $69 billion in managed 13F securities as of the end of the second quarter of 2023. Its Assets Under Management (AUM) are worth over $106 billion.

The massive returns stem from the unique investment approach that Simons and his team deployed at Renaissance Technologies, which entails relying on complex mathematical formulas and crucial metrics. The strategy involves determining the probabilities of a stock performance and balancing the portfolio accordingly.

Investments in Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), and Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) have become big winners in Renaissance Technologies portfolio. In addition, the hedge fund explores investment opportunities in a diverse range of industries as one of the ways of diversifying the portfolio.

Billionaire investor Simons stepped down from active management of Renaissance Technologies in 2010 and stepped down as the executive chairman in 2021. Peter Brown is the chief executive officer tasked with ensuring the hedge fund sticks to its quantitative analysis to discover and unlock value in the market. Speaking on an episode of the podcast "Exchanges at Goldman Sachs, Brown reiterated they always look to hire people with exceptional math and programming ability as well as strong work ethic.

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Renaissance Technologies Top Energy Stock Picks

Jim Simons of Renaissance Technologies

Our Methodology

We scanned the second quarter portfolio of Renaissance Technologies and picked the firm's top energy stock picks.

Renaissance Technologies Returns, AUM, CEO and Top Energy Stock Picks

12. EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $60.79 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 43

EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG) is one of billionaire Renaissance Technologies energy stock picks as the company develops, produces, and markets crude oil and natural gas. It has emerged as one of the best energy plays, going by a 216% gain over the past three years.

43 out of the 910 hedge funds part of Insider Monkeys Q2 2023 database had invested in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG). Natixis Global Asset Managements Harris Associates is the biggest shareholder among these since it owns a $986.93 million stake.

11. Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:TRGP)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $66.35 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 35

Targa Resources Corp. (NYSE:TRGP) is an energy company that operates, acquires, and develops a portfolio of midstream infrastructure assets. The company gathers, compresses, and transports natural gas. It also offers services to liquefied petroleum gas exporters while purchasing and selling natural gas liquids.

After digging through 910 hedge funds for their June quarter of 2023 shareholdings, Insider Monkey discovered that 35 had bought the firms shares.

10. EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $67.66 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 51

EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT) has been one of Renaissance Technologies' top energy stock picks, with a 30% gain year to date. In addition, the stock is up by more than 600% over the past three years, affirming why it is one of the best for gaining exposure in the energy sector.

By the end of this years second quarter, 51 of the 910 hedge funds tracked by Insider Monkey had invested in EQT Corporation (NYSE:EQT). Eric W. Mandelblatts Soroban Capital Partners is the most significant stakeholder among these due to its $233.37 million investment.

9. Cosan S.A. (NYSE:CSAN)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $73.57 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 5

Cosan S.A. (NYSE:CSAN) is a company that engages in fuel distribution in key markets of Europe, Latin America, and North America.

By the end of 2023s June quarter, 5 out of the 910 hedge funds polled by Insider Monkey had held a stake in the company. Cosan S.A. (NYSE:CSAN)s largest hedge fund investor is Israel Englanders Millennium Management due to its $1.81 million stake.

8. Pioneer Natural Resources Company (NYSE:PXD)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $81.38 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 54

Pioneer Natural Resources Company (NYSE:PXD) is a Texas-based company that explores and produces oil and gas independently. It is one of billionaire Jim Simon's energy stock picks that explores, develops, and produces oil and natural gas liquids.

As of Q2 2023 end, 54 out of the 910 hedge funds part of Insider Monkeys database were Pioneer Natural Resources Company (NYSE:PXD)s investors. Out of these, the firms biggest shareholder is Donald Yacktmans Yacktman Asset Management since it owns 1.28 million shares that are worth $264.24 million.

7. BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $90.90 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 36

BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) is one of the players in the oil and gas Integrated industry, specializing in providing carbon products and services. It operates through Gas and low-carbon energy, Oil Production, and operations. It also engages in the production of natural gas and integrated gas and power.

As of June 2023, 36 out of the 910 hedge funds part of Insider Monkey's database had invested in BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP). Out of these, the largest shareholder is John Overdeck and David Siegels Two Sigma Advisors due to a $207.27 million stake.

6. Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE:AR)

Renaissance Technologies Q2 2023 Holdings: $104.78 Million

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 38

Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE:AR) is a Colorado-based oil and gas company. The company boasts a massive presence in the Appalachian Basin and the upper Devonian shale.

Insider Monkey took a look at 910 hedge funds for their June quarter of 2023 shareholdings and discovered that 38 were the firms investors. Antero Resources Corporation (NYSE:AR)s biggest hedge fund investor in our database is Phill Gross and Robert Atchinsons Adage Capital Management since it owns 4.15 million shares that are worth $95.65 million.

Click to continue reading and see Renaissance Technologies Top 5 Energy Stock Picks.

Suggested articles:

Disclosure: None. Renaissance Technologies Returns, AUM, CEO and Top Energy Stock Picks is originally published on Insider Monkey.
Did you know there are some financial metrics that can provide clues of a potential multi-bagger? Ideally, a business will show two trends; firstly a growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and secondly, an increasing amount of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. Looking at Robert Half (NYSE:RHI), it does have a high ROCE right now, but lets see how returns are trending.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. To calculate this metric for Robert Half, this is the formula:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.32 = US$571m  (US$3.1b - US$1.3b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023).

Thus, Robert Half has an ROCE of 32%. In absolute terms that's a great return and it's even better than the Professional Services industry average of 12%.

Check out our latest analysis for Robert Half

roce

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Robert Half 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.

How Are Returns Trending?

When we looked at the ROCE trend at Robert Half, we didn't gain much confidence. Historically returns on capital were even higher at 50%, but they have dropped over the last five years. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It may take some time before the company starts to see any change in earnings from these investments.

On a side note, Robert Half's current liabilities are still rather high at 42% of total assets. This can bring about some risks because the company is basically operating with a rather large reliance on its suppliers or other sorts of short-term creditors. Ideally we'd like to see this reduce as that would mean fewer obligations bearing risks.

Story continues

In Conclusion...

In summary, Robert Half is reinvesting funds back into the business for growth but unfortunately it looks like sales haven't increased much just yet. Unsurprisingly, the stock has only gained 32% over the last five years, which potentially indicates that investors are accounting for this going forward. So if you're looking for a multi-bagger, the underlying trends indicate you may have better chances elsewhere.

If you'd like to know about the risks facing Robert Half, we've discovered 1 warning sign that you should be aware of.

If you'd like to see other companies earning high returns, check out our free list of companies earning high returns with solid balance sheets 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.
KSAs Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Pirelli, a leading global tyre manufacturer, have signed a landmark joint venture (JV) agreement to build a $550 million giant tyre manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia.

The plant, aiming to create a national and regional champion, is expected to generate an annual production capacity of 3.5 million units, bringing additional economic benefits and complemented by a commitment to environmental sustainability. The JV will also serve as an important anchor to attract further investment to Saudi Arabia.

The plant is expected to start production in 2026. The JV will manufacture high-quality tyres for passenger vehicles, under the Pirelli brand, and will also manufacture and market tyres under a new local brand targeting the domestic and regional market.

PIF to hold a 75pc stake

PIF will hold a 75% stake in the new JV with Pirelli holding the remaining 25% and acting as a strategic technology partner to support the development of the project by providing technical and commercial assistance.

For Pirelli, the project will have a neutral impact on the companys deleveraging targets to 2025.

Saudi Arabia is set to become a global automotive manufacturing hub by 2030. PIF has established a world-class automobile sector in Saudi Arabia by driving transformation and boosting manufacturing capabilities, infrastructure and supply chains in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Among its major investments in the sector, PIF and Hyundai Motor Company recently announced a landmark $500 million JV to establish a state-of-the-art automotive manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia. And the launch of Tasaru, the National Automotive and Mobility Investment Company, which is dedicated to localising automotive supply chains and manufacturing capabilities.

PIF has also made other significant investments in the future of mobility, including establishing Ceer, Saudi Arabias first national electric vehicle brand, as well as investing in Lucid Motors, which recently officially opened its first international manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia.

Technical support and expertise

As a leading global tyre manufacturer, Pirelli will offer technical support and expertise to design, develop and operate the plant. Through this JV, PIF and Pirelli are committed to creating a leader that localises manufacturing capabilities for an important segment in the automotive industry, while enabling upstream and downstream activities across the value chain.

In line with its local-for-local strategy, Pirelli, through the JV, will become the first tier 1 tyre maker to directly source production in Saudi Arabia.

Yazeed A Al-Humied, Deputy Governor and Head of Mena Investments at PIF, said: Through this Joint Venture with Pirelli, PIF is building production capabilities in the automotive and mobility value chain and enhance opportunities for private sector contribution. This collaboration marks another pivotal milestone in our journey to diversify the economy, enhance sustainability and localise manufacturing capabilities in Saudi Arabia.

Promising market

Marco Tronchetti Provera, Executive Vice Chairman of Pirelli, said: Accessing local production in Saudi Arabia, one of the most promising markets today, in line with our positioning in high value and electric, represents a great opportunity for Pirelli. Capturing it alongside a partner like PIF with its plans to enable the automotive sector.

The closing of the transaction is subject to obtaining approvals from the relevant authorities and satisfying certain conditions under the agreement.
Sam Bankman-Fried took the witness stand. Chelsea Jia Feng/Insider

Sam Bankman-Fried took the witness stand on Thursday after days of testimony from his inner circle.

The FTX cofounder is facing seven charges of fraud over the collapse of the cryptocurrency exchange.

Bankman-Fried's testimony could be a last-ditch effort for his defense, but it could also be risky.

Sam Bankman-Fried took the witness stand Thursday to testify in his own defense in the criminal trial involving FTX's collapse.

The jury was dismissed before the FTX cofounder began his testimony. Judge Lewis Kaplan said some of Bankman-Fried's testimony would occur without the jury present so that he could decide whether it could be used as evidence.

After briefly describing the "constant" threat of attempts to hack FTX, Bankman-Fried got into the company's document retention policy, which he said he abided by "to my knowledge." After being a proponent of using the auto-deletion feature on company chats in Signal, Bankman-Fried said he reversed course after regulators told him he should.

Before the defense switched topics, Kaplan asked for more details regarding the retention policy.

"Where is this policy?" Kaplan asked. Bankman-Fried gave no answer.

Ahead of the defense calling Bankman-Fried, the FTX cofounder's attorneys appeared to go back and forth on whether they would have their client take the witness stand.

It wasn't until Wednesday that defense attorney Mark Cohen told the judge on Wednesday that Bankman-Fried would testify in his own defense, as one of a handful of potential witnesses.

Federal prosecutors had called their final witness earlier on Thursday. During the trial, the jury heard from several former executives at FTX and the cryptocurrency exchange's sister company Alameda Research, including FTX cofounder Gary Wang and former Alameda Research CEO Caroline Ellison.

Federal prosecutors have argued that Bankman-Fried defrauded FTX customers and investors out of billions of dollars. Wang testified earlier this month that he knew what FTX had done was wrong and Ellison said during her dayslong testimony that she'd worked with Bankman-Fried to take FTX customers' money and use it for Alameda investments.

Story continues

The FTX cofounder is facing seven criminal charges and has pleaded not guilty on all counts. Leading up to his testimony, Bankman-Fried has argued that the executives who took over FTX after it went bankrupt misunderstood his intentions. He has also attempted to lay the blame for FTX's demise on former executives at his companies.

Bankman-Fried's testimony could be a last-ditch effort for the defense after witnesses from his close personal circle testified that the FTX cofounder knowingly commingled fund from FTX customers with Alameda Research's investments.

Bankman-Fried's testimony could also pose significant risks for him as it will open him up for cross-examination from prosecutors and a judge could lengthen his sentence if he is caught telling any lies on the stand.

Read the original article on Business Insider
BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- "It is a question worth thinking about  how each country manages their AI development, while upholding the principle of the common values of humankind as the rule of joint governance of AI," said Gao Shaolin, a consultant at the Legal Artificial Intelligence Research Center at Peking University, speaking at the Digital Economy Forum, a part of the 19th Annual Beijing-Tokyo Forum, in Beijing on October 19.

The Digital Economy Forum, a part of the 19th Annual Beijing-Tokyo Forum, is held in Beijing on October 19. (PHOTO: ZHOU Weihai/S&T Daily)

The Digital Economy Forum this year focused on construction of a digital society and joint governance of artificial intelligence. The scholars and industry participants from China and Japan shared their insights on the topic, and discussed how two countries strengthen cooperation in building a digital society and AI management.

Challenges and opportunities

AI is changing people's life, work and social structure at unprecedented speed.

After OpenAI released ChatGPT, generative AI has witnessed an explosive growth, creating a technological innovation boom around the world. According to Goldman Sachs, generative AI can drive global GDP growth by 7 percent, adding 7 trillion USD in GDP, and the AI industry will usher in the 3.0 era.

Yi Chuang, General Manager of Japan, SenseTime Asia Pacific Business Group, said that China has the most active market in generative AI. In the first half of 2023, more than 120 large model AI products were released, including 79 large models with above one billion parameters, and at least 20 general large models.

Though the rapid development of AI technology has brought great opportunities, technical and ethical challenges also pose unpredictable risks on humanity.

Toshio Iwamoto, Principal Executive Advisor of NTT Data Corporation, said that AI could lead to misinformation and joblessness. Particularly, the people-to-people relationship will be replaced by the people-to-AI relationship.

Fumihiko Kamio, Nomura Research Institute's Director of Research, also said that generative AI would cause major risks in data security and personal information protection and algorithms, along with ethical issues, and intellectual property infringement.

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Responding to their concern, Liu Song, Vice president of PingCAP (Beijing) Technology Co. Ltd., said, "It is not AI that replaces human beings, but people who have mastered AI technology that replace people who have not."

People-oriented development

Participants agreed that AI development and application should be "people-oriented," thus ultimately serving for the wellbeing of humankind.

Gao said China has always actively advocated "putting people first" and "tech for good." He said that the Global AI Governance Initiative, issued by China on October 18, provides Chinese solution to the AI development. The initiative systematically outlines China's proposals on AI governance from three aspects, namely, the development, security and governance of AI. He also noted that AI governance can be strengthened through laws, ethics and international cooperation.

Iwamoto said that the use of AI must contribute to the survival, dignity and happiness of human beings, and that security and privacy protection must be ensured.

Inclusive digital society

The construction of a digital society should attach importance to its universality and make AI beneficial to people's livelihood.

Zhang Xiaodan, vice president of Global Tone Communication Technology Co. Ltd., shared a digital transformation solution for the traditional manufacturing industry. Her company provides an Internet platform to help textile enterprises increase their production efficiency and the production of employees by 20 and 8 percent, respectively, and reduce the work intensity of employees by 20 percent.

Zhu Rongsheng, a research associate at the Center for International Security and Strategy of Tsinghua University, said China and Japan can try to put forward AI development and governance principles, so as to meet the needs of East Asia integration. Zhu proposed that both sides could develop the related issues included in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership agreement.

Given the social challenges facing both China and Japan, including aging, low birth-rate and economic transformation, Yi said that in the era of AI 3.0, the business communities of the two countries can work together to use new technologies to solve these problems, and prevent privacy protection and technology ethics caused by new technologies.

As for expanding cooperation, Zhu suggested that the attendees can establish a working mechanism. Based on the basic principles in AI of bilateral cooperation as a framework, forum participants could forward a proposal to the policymakers, contributing to the digital economic cooperation between the two countries.

Cision

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SOURCE Science and Technology Daily
(Bloomberg) -- SK Hynix Inc. declared its opposition to a merger of Kioxia Holdings Corp. and Western Digital Corp., introducing more uncertainty to a landmark US-Japanese deal years in the making.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The worlds No. 2 memory chipmaker, an indirect shareholder in the Japanese chipmaker, says the transaction undervalued its stake.

SK Hynix is not agreeing to the deal at this time in light of the overall impact on the value of the companys investment in Kioxia, Chief Financial Officer Kim Woohyun told analysts on a post-results call. The company will make a decision for the sake of all stakeholders, including not only the shareholders but also Kioxia.

SK Hynix cannot disclose more specific reasons nor comment further on the deal process because of confidentiality agreements, he added.

Its not clear yet how its objections will affect the outcome. SK Hynix, a competitor in the memory chip business, became an indirect shareholder in Kioxia when a Bain Capital-led consortium bought a controlling stake from Toshiba Corp., though its exact slice of the Japanese company is unknown.

An agreement could get announced despite the companys resistance, as Bain and Kioxia work on a resolution, people close to the matter have told Bloomberg News. While multiple people said SK Hynix has no veto rights over the deal, others said the companys consent is necessary because its a major investor. Representatives for Western Digital didnt respond to requests for comment after normal US hours, while Kioxia and Bain spokespeople declined to comment.

What Bloomberg Intelligence Says

The potential merger of Kioxia-Western Digital is likely to challenge SK Hynixs position as the No. 2 NAND manufacturer and pressure its loss-making NAND unit, although its liquidity could improve on the sum it might receive. Despite a possible shift in market dynamics, SK Hynixs dollar bonds could tighten on rising DRAM demand for generative AI.

Story continues

- Cecilia Chan, analyst

Click here for the research.

Read more: Kioxia Is Said to Approach JIC to Back Western Digital Deal

SK Hynix was part of the Bain Capital-led group that purchased Toshibas memory chip unit in 2018. The Korean firm invested 395 billion yen in the deal. Based on an agreement at the time, SK Hynix planned to finance 129 billion yen of that total via convertible bonds that could allow it to take an equity stake of up to 15% in future.

The Korean company put the remaining 266 billion yen in a fund set up by Bain Capital as an investment.

Western Digital and Kioxia have talked for years about a possible combination, yet discussions have been snarled over issues of control, leadership, economics and politics. In theory, merging the two operations would help the companies compete against the memory chip industrys largest players.

The pair now seek to wrap up negotiations this month and want to announce a deal no later than when the US firm reports earnings Oct. 30. Kioxia has approached Japan Investment Corp. about making a capital infusion to speed up the deal.

Read more: SK Hynix Sales Decline Slows in Sign of Recovery for Chips

--With assistance from Seyoon Kim, Sohee Kim, Yuki Furukawa, Min Jeong Lee and Liana Baker.

(Updates with analysts comment and details of Hynixs stake from the fifth paragraph)

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
After months of negotiations and a "stand up" strike against the Detroit Three automakers, Ford reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract with the United Auto Workers, the union representing roughly 150,000 autoworkers nationwide.

While reports of the agreement started circulating earlier in the evening, it was officially announced by UAW President Shawn Fain and Vice President Chuck Browning in a Facebook video shortly before 8:30 p.m.

Before that began, strikers at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville were already packing up and taking down tents while clouds of smoke filled the air as the ever-present burn barrels were extinguished. Many of the workers headed to the union hall just down the road from the plant.

The tentative agreement includes an 11% wage increase the first year and totals 25% over a 4.5-year contract, plus a $5,000 ratification bonus and cost-of-living adjustments, two sources familiar with the deal but not authorized to speak publicly told the Detroit Free Press.

No agreement has been reached between the UAW and General Motors or Stellantis, which owns the Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and Fiat brands.

Im ecstatic about it. Im excited to see the outcome has come in our favor, Evan Palmer, with UAW Local 862 and a member of the UAW National Ford Council with International UAW said. Im excited to get our brothers and sisters back to work.

Palmer will fly to Detroit this weekend to review the contract in-depth during a Sunday meeting with about 60 other UAW National Ford Council representatives. After that group approves the contract, it will go to the membership for voting.

Palmer said the full contract will be available digitally to all members Sunday night.

"I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard-fought, good faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight," President Joe Biden said in a statement issued Wednesday night. "This tentative agreement is a testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table in a manner that helps businesses succeed while helping workers secure pay and benefits they can raise a family on and retire with dignity and respect."

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By 9:15 p.m., the union hall was all but cleared out as members headed home, many with grins and subtle chants of solidarity as they got in their cars.

Here's what we know about Ford's tentative contract with the UAW:

How did we get here?

The first wave of strikes was called Sept. 14, after the contract between the UAW and the automakers expired at 11:59 p.m. A second wave followed on Sept. 22 and a third on Sept. 29.

Then on Oct. 11, the UAW called Ford's iconic and profitable Kentucky Truck Plant to strike. Following the strike at KTP, other prominent plants at GM and Stellantis were also later called to strike.

With more than 40 locations striking across the U.S., only three Ford plants had been called to strike  Ford Michigan Assembly Plant (final assembly and paint only), Ford Chicago Assembly, and KTP in Louisville. All other striking plants are GM or Stellantis.

In Louisville, UAW Local 862 represents about 12,000 workers at the area's two Ford assembly plants, KTP and Louisville Assembly Plant. KTP is a key plant for Ford, making up roughly 54% of the company's North American profit, Todd Dunn, president of UAW Local 862, previously told the Courier Journal.

According to Ford, KTP makes $25 billion in revenue and makes more revenue than companies such as Southwest Airlines, Nordstrom, and Marriott.

Is the UAW strike over?

Members of UAW Local 862 gathered to hold a practice picket on Thursday, August 24, 2023. Members work at Fords Kentucky Truck Plant.

In the Wednesday night video, Browning called on all Ford workers to return to work while the contract is being voted on.

Following the announcement of the tentative deal, Ford called employees back to the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville starting Thursday morning. However, there is a 48-hour grace period for workers to return meaning they have until Saturday to be back on the job without penalty.

Good evening. We are happy to report the strike has ended. We would very much appreciate your help in preparing the plant for starting production. If you are interested, please report to work tomorrow morning, the call from Ford said. This is a voluntary option for those who wish to come in and assist. There is a 48-hour grace period between the company and the union and anyone who has been called and cannot report will not be marked AWOL. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to seeing everybody.

(The tentative agreement) means nothing without the memberships approval, Palmer said. It sounds great  but its ultimately up to the membership. Im not worried, our national negotiators bargained a great contract across the board.

Ford UAW members will need to vote on and ratify the new contract. The ratification process can take a couple of weeks because members are given time to read the proposed contract and present questions to their local UAW leadership before casting their votes.

At GM and Stellantis, the strike is not over.

It is unclear how much longer the strike will continue as the union and the remaining two automakers work to negotiate for a new contract.

What's next?

Any potential deal between the union and the automaker is subject to review by local union leaders from around the country elected by the members, called the UAW National Ford Council, who will travel to Detroit prior to a ratification vote, sources told the Detroit Free Press.

The 57,000 Ford UAW members across the country must then vote on the contract.

Here's how the ratification process works for UAW Ford.#StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/zr2evTpsNs  UAW (@UAW) October 26, 2023

Once the contract is passed and ratified by the Ford workers, it will become the new National Master Agreement the company and the union will operate under for the next four years.

The voting and ratification process can take a few weeks for unions as large as UAW.

UAW Local 862's roughly 12,000 members in Louisville will vote on the contract Nov. 12 at a location in downtown Louisville. International UAW President Fain is expected to be in attendance.

What is in the new UAW and Ford contract?

Tequila Tinsley joined other members of UAW Local 862 strike Fords Kentucky Truck Plant on Friday, October 13, 2023.

While exact details of the new contract have not yet been fully released, Fain previously talked about some points the union won from the company.

In a Facebook Live on Sept. 22, Fain shared negotiation victories with Ford such as reinstating cost-of-living adjustments or COLA, winning the right to strike over plant closures, and extending profit sharing to temporary workers, among others, the Courier Journal previously reported.

"UAW family, many people said this couldnt be done, but we just did it," a release from the UAW on Sept. 22 stated in regard to the reinstatement of COLA.

The UAW and Ford also made progress on additional bargaining points including eliminating tiers at the Ford Rawsonville Components and Sterling Axle plant in Michigan, winning income security with health care for up to two years in the event of indefinite layoffs, winning enhanced profit sharing for all employees, and the immediate conversion of all current temporary workers to permanent workers.

What did the UAW demand?

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Negotiations took a sharp focus on increased pay for workers, with Fain, who was sworn into office in March as the first UAW president directly elected by the members, demanding pay raises upward of 40% for workers.

A major sticking point in negotiations this year was cost-of-living adjustments or COLA, the Courier Journal previously reported. The union wanted to see COLA returned; it was originally suspended in 2009 in response to the financial crisis.

As the negotiations dragged on, points of contention focused on battery plants and the transition to electric vehicle, EV production. The UAW wants to see battery and EV plants such as the BlueOval SK plants in Glendale and Stanton, Tennessee be unionized once they open in coming years. Ford sources have previously said this is not something that can be brought under the National Master Agreement since these plants are joint ventures with a South Korean company.

Why did the UAW strike?

After the labor contract between the UAW and the Detroit automakers expired Sept. 14 at 11:59 p.m., the union enacted what it called a "stand up strike" against all three of the automakers  a first in the union's 88-year history.

The UAW's new stand-up strike strategy allowed union leadership to call on specific locals around the country and ask them to "stand up" and strike at their respective plants. This strategy was intended to give the UAW more flexibility in striking and allowed it to focus on multiple facilities across the three companies, the Courier Journal previously reported.

In the first wave of the stand up strike, autoworkers walked off the job and picketed GM Wentzville Assembly in Missouri, Stellantis Toledo Assembly in Ohio, and Ford Michigan Assembly Plant (final assembly and paint only).

In the second wave, Ford plants across the U.S. were spared from more strikes due to the progress the company had made with the union in negotiations. For Stellantis and GM, it was a different story, with the UAW calling 38 parts distribution centers across 20 states to stand up and strike the two automakers.

"Everywhere UAW members of the working class are ready to stand up," Fain said in a Facebook Live on Sept. 22.

The two Louisville area Ford plants and the GM plant in Bowling Green were not asked to strike in the first or second wave.

Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at oevans@courier-journal.com or on Twitter at @oliviamevans_.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Ford Motor Co. and UAW reach new contract, strike at Ford plants end
If you're looking to escape to West Coast beaches, or maybe a weekend getaway for a Chiefs football game, Southwest Airlines is adding two new non-stop flights from Columbus to make it happen.

A Southwest Airlines airplane is parked at a gate at John Glenn Columbus International Airport on Monday, May 2, 2022.

Leaving from John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Southwest is adding direct service to San Diego and Kansas City International Airport beginning next summer.

The two cities are already among the top destinations for Columbus travelers. Weekly service will begin in June and available for booking on Southwest.com.

Two of the largest unserved destinations for Columbus travelers will now be served nonstop thanks to Southwest Airlines new flights to San Diego and Kansas City, said Joseph R. Nardone, President & CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority. The new service brings to 53 the total nonstop destinations out of John Glenn International and Rickenbacker Passenger Terminal, the most ever for Greater Columbus travelers.

The additional routes have been part of an overall demand in air travel. Last month, Columbus area travelers broke the previous record for September departures more than 345,000 departures  at the two airports (2% greater than the previous record set in September 2019).

Year-to-date traffic for both airports represents 97% of 2019, and an 11% increase over the same time period in 2022. That momentum is expected to continue into the fall and winter, airport officials said.

Travelers can learn about the 53 non-stop routes at FlyColumbus.com.

dnarciso@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Southwest Airlines to add two non-stop destinations from Columbus
SAN ANTONIO, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- SWBC Investment Services, LLC, announced it was named Co-Senior on the Hidalgo County, Texas, Certificates of Obligation, Series 2023.

SWBC (PRNewsfoto/SWBC)

Issuer: Hidalgo County

Issue: Certificates of Obligation, Series 2023

Security Type: Certificates of Obligation, Series 2023

Tax Treatment: Tax Exempt

Amount: $42,185,000

SWBC's Role: Co-Senior

Sale Type: Negotiated Underwriting

Sale Date: 9/25/2023

Settlement Date: 10/19/2023

Use of Proceeds: Public Improvements

"As a Texas-based company, we are once again thrilled to work with Hidalgo County and the other syndicate managers to have a successful bond issuance," said John Tuohy, CEO of SWBC Investment Services. "We look forward to working with Texas municipalities as we continue to grow our footprint."

The certificates will be used to pay for:

Contractual obligations associated with acquisition of land, buildings, and improvements for parking lot infrastructure, equipment, and fixtures

Construction of a county animal control facility

Construction of county buildings to include demolition of existing courthouse, memorials, and parking lots

Renovation, repair, and improvements to existing buildings to comply with the American Disabilities Act

Construction and reconstruction of drainage systems and road systems

Acquisition of land for parks development and cost of improvement and equipment

Acquisition of land, rights of way, materials, and traffic control used for installation, construction, and improvements of drainage systems and road systems

Payment for services provided by engineers, attorneys, financial advisors, and fiscal agents

The purchase of road, drainage, parks, sanitation construction, and other heavy maintenance equipment and machinery.

In 2018, SWBC Investment Services launched its public finance business for a diverse number of public entities, including cities and counties; higher education institutions; independent school districts; municipal utility, water, drainage, and special districts; and regional transportation districts. Since then, the company has managed over $1 billion of new issue municipal bond financing transactions.

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About SWBC

As a diversified financial services company, SWBC provides financial institutions, businesses, and individuals a wide range of insurance, mortgages, wealth management, employee benefits, and more. Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, SWBC has partners and divisions across all 50 states and manages business around the world. No matter how wide its reach, SWBC always listens to our customers' needs, analyzes their current situations, and recommends customized solutions. For more information about our innovative approach to personalized service, visit SWBC's website at www.swbc.com. Securities offered by SWBC Investment Services, LLC, member SIPC & FINRA. Advisory services offered by SWBC Investment Services Company, a Registered Investment Advisor.

John Tuohy, CEO of SWBC Investment Services (PRNewsfoto/SWBC)

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SOURCE SWBC
Welcome to the WHAT THE TRUCK?!? Newsletter presented by AIT. In this issue, shooting spree in Maine has drivers on edge.

Shooting spree in Lewiston



X

Tragedy  Wednesday evening all hell broke loose in Lewiston, Maine, when a gunman went on a rampage at multiple locations. NBC News reports, At least 18 people are dead and 13 others are injured after shootings at a bar and a bowling alley.

Although initial reports said that a Walmart distribution center was a shooting location, that has proved to be inaccurate. We now know the gunman staged his attacks at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley and Schemengees Bar and Grille.

Last night area residents were ordered to shelter in place while truckers in the area were put on high alert via messages over their Qualcomms.



X

I delivered drop and hook to that Walmart 48 hours ago. F**king hell.  Trucker Eric The Redbeard on X

On the loose  Police are conducting a manhunt for 40-year-old Robert Card, who they say is on the run. CNN reports, [Card] previously reported mental health issues and hearing voices and threatened to shoot up a National Guard base in the state, Maine law enforcement officials said.



X

BOLO  With the whereabouts of the shooter unknown, keep your drivers and employees in the area on high alert.

What Lewiston Maine says to us drivers is there is NOWHERE that is safe from this kind of shit. You cant be sitting at a truck stop in the middle of nowhere thinking youre away from the flack any more.  Trucker Eric The Redbeard on X

As for where Card could be, thats as of yet unknown. CNN spoke to Clifford Steeves, who knows the shooter. He told them, He would be very comfortable in the woods.

I know that the people of Lewiston are enduring immeasurable pain. I wish I could take that pain from you, but I promise you this, we will all help you carry this grief. I ask Maine people to join me in offering our comfort to the families and friends who have lost someone and in offering our prayers for a swift recovery to the people who are healing in Maine hospitals today.  Maine Gov. Janet Mills

Story continues

Our thoughts are with the victims and anyone who may be in harms way while a spree killer is on the loose. Be vigilant and be safe out there.

WTT Friday

The logistics launching NASAs next Commercial Crew mission  On Fridays episode of WHAT THE TRUCK?!?, NASA Kennedy Space Centers Brian Berry talks about the logistics launching NASAs next Commercial Crew mission. In this role, he ensures mission readiness and certification prior to launch, and coordinates real-time operations for the CCP Mission Support Team throughout the mission. This includes dry dress rehearsal, launch, docking, docked period at the International Space Station, undocking and return.

Diablo Freight Ventures Tyson Lawrence talks about overcoming failure in freight. Lawrence went from a failed brokerage to building one that he sold to GlobalTranz. Hell share how to pivot and when to pivot when faced with big challenges, the best environment to build and create a freight brokerage, and how to stay financially solvent in this operating environment.

F3 descends upon Chattanooga in just 12 short days. FreightWaves Haley Fazio is here with a preview of whats going down at the Future of Freight Festival in the Scenic City this November. Need tickets? Use code F3WTT right here.

Plus, latest news and trends.

Catch new shows live at noon ET Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on FreightWaves LinkedIn, Facebook, X or YouTube or on demand by looking up WHAT THE TRUCK?!? on your favorite podcast player.

Now on demand

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Broker purge, portable urinals and AI for DOT compliance

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The post Truckers on high alert after spree shootings in Maine appeared first on FreightWaves.
Four years ago on Oct. 25, the United Auto Workers (UAW) in Memphis returned to work following a 40-day strike.

On Wednesday, the scene was a polarity of 2019 with about three dozen UAW workers outside the ACDelco Parts Distribution Center in Memphis.

Approximately 180 UAW workers at General Motors distribution center at 5115 Pleasant Hill Road have been on strike since Sept. 22. They joined over 25,000 UAW workers on strike and are part of a union representing more than 150,000 nationwide.

Its pretty much business as usual, General Motors shop chairman Sherman Ward said. "They have all the cards. We gave up a lot in 2007."

United Auto Workers (UAW) remain on strike outside of the General Motors AC Delco Distribution Center at 5115 Pleasant Hill Rd in Memphis on Wednesday, Oct. 25. The UAW and the Big Three auto manufacturers have been in a contract dispute since September.

Ward remained pragmatic towards the strike. While he hopes everyone can return to work soon, he expects the strike will continue until the union's demands are met.

A few hours later Wednesday, it was announced Ford and UAW had reached a tentative agreement on a new labor contract.

The tentative agreement includes an 11% wage increase the first year and totals 25% over a 4.5-year contract, plus a $5,000 ratification bonus and cost-of-living adjustments, according to two sources familiar with the deal but not authorized to speak publicly.

But the UAW remains in a contract dispute with General Motors and Stellantis.

Ward, who has been with the union and at the Memphis facility for 14 years, recalled the last strike in 2019. Many of the same demands the union is fighting for this go-around are carryovers from the last contract dispute. Ward said salary limits have remained the same since 2007 and is one of the main demands they are fighting for. Ward added that the workers will remain on strike until a resolution is met.

He said union-represented workers are being compensated with $500-a-week supplemental income during the strike. The local chapter has been organizing outside the Pleasant Hill Road facility since last month in four-hour shifts.

United Auto Workers (UAW) remain on strike outside of the General Motors AC Delco Distribution Center at 5115 Pleasant Hill Rd in Memphis on Wednesday, Oct. 25. The UAW and the Big Three auto manufacturers have been in a contract dispute since September.

Ward said the local chapter has been supported by other UAW chapters statewide along with local unions including the United Steelworkers and ALF-CIO labor council. He said both have helped provide resources for workers who need additional assistance outside the $500 weekly strike pay.

Story continues

Ward said former Memphis NAACP chapter president Van Turner, District Attorney Steve Mulroy and Tennessee State Rep. Justin Pearson have provided support for the UAW workers. All three were present at a rally Sunday in Overton Park.

UAW President Shawn Fain plans to make his weekly announcement at 9 a.m. Friday. Ward said the situation is a little different this time compared to 2019. Usually, he would receive word about the updates ahead of the announcement and coordinate with local union workers and regional chapters. However, he and the rest of the Memphis will find out the latest on Friday. Its a different strategy theyve adopted this time around, he said.

UAW President Shawn Fain delivers a strike update during a Facebook Live address Friday afternoon, October 20, 2023.

In August, Fain proposed several demands for the next four-year labor contract including the elimination of wage tiers, expanded paid leave and significant wage increases.

In its Q3 earnings report, General Motors reported a net income of $3.1 billion ($3.6 billion of earnings before interest and taxes). Additionally, in a letter to shareholders, General Motors CEO Mary Barra shared the companys last proposal with the UAW was an increase of $40.93 per hour wage, approximately an $84,000 salary, over the next four years.

"Since negotiations started this summer, weve been available to bargain 24/7 on behalf of our represented team members and our company. Theyve demanded a record contract  and thats exactly what weve offered for weeks now: a historic contract with record wage increases, record job security and world-class healthcare," Barra wrote in the shareholders letter.

Earlier this week, Sen. Bernie Sanders lobbied for a Senate-backed resolution supporting the UAW strike. The strike began on Sept. 14, when nearly 13,000 union-represented workers exited three Detroit plants. The strikes have been ongoing since with planned walkouts at specific locations such as the Memphis facility. On Oct. 24, UAW workers organized a stand up strike in Arlington, Texas, at General Motors' largest facility.

This morning, our national negotiators called on UAW members at GM's biggest plant to walk off and join our Stand Up Strike.



Hear their story. #StandUpUAW pic.twitter.com/gMSWtth5Q1  UAW (@UAW) October 25, 2023

The 660,000-square-foot Memphis plant opened in 1999 and has over 200 employees. The majority of the staff are represented by UAW Local 2406. According to the General Motors website, the Memphis facility handles nearly 331,700 orders monthly.

In January, General Motors announced a $14 million investment at the Memphis plant for a new automated storage and retrieval system to support growth in the eCommerce business sector along with the EV charger and ACDelco parts supply network. Installation on the new network began in June and was expected to be completed in October, prior to the strike beginning.

United Auto Workers (UAW) remain on strike outside of the General Motors AC Delco Distribution Center at 5115 Pleasant Hill Rd in Memphis on Wednesday, Oct. 25. The UAW and the Big Three auto manufacturers have been in a contract dispute since September.

Additionally, General Motors awarded the University of Memphis Foundation a $10,000 community grant in part of the expansion announcement in January. The grant funding is to help improve STEM education and workforce development opportunities in Memphis.

The Detroit Free Press contributed to this report.

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: UAW strike in Memphis: General Motors workers await next move
Allied Market Research

The UK and Ireland flavored syrup market is experiencing growth due to various factors, such as consumers increasingly seeking natural and artisanal flavors for their food and drinks, manufacturers producing flavored syrups using natural ingredients and traditional methods, capturing a specific market segment, people becoming more health conscious, they are opting for healthier alternatives such as sugar-free or reduced-sugar-flavored syrups. to meet this demand, manufacturers have introduced low-calorie and natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extracts.

Wilmington, Delaware, Oct. 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, UK and Ireland Flavored Syrup Market, By Flavor Type (Fruits, Coffee, Chocolate, Vanilla, Mint, Nuts, Caramel, and Blends), By End Use (Cocktails, Mocktails, Coffee, Milkshakes, Iced Lattes and Frappes, Others), by Distribution Channel (Hypermarket and Supermarket, Specialty Stores, On Trade and HoReCa, Online Sales Channel): Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2032. According to the report, the UK and Ireland flavored syrup industry was valued at $275.9 million in 2022 and is anticipated to gain $403.7 million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.9% from 2023 to 2032.

Request Sample Report: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/276559

Flavored Syrups are one of the most popularly used ingredients in the UK and Ireland. They are mainly used to sweeten and add flavor to a variety of drinks and culinary uses. They can be used in many different ways and are a great option for people who want to try different flavors in their drinks and foods. They are available in a variety of flavors and are commonly used in coffee shops, bars, and home kitchens.



Prime Determinants of Growth:

The UK and Ireland flavored syrup market is experiencing growth due to various factors, such as consumers increasingly seeking natural and artisanal flavors for their food and drinks, manufacturers producing flavored syrups using natural ingredients and traditional methods, capturing a specific market segment, people becoming more health conscious, they are opting for healthier alternatives such as sugar-free or reduced-sugar-flavored syrups. to meet this demand, manufacturers have introduced low-calorie and natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extracts. On the other hand, the competition from alternatives, distribution network complexity, and shelf-life considerations limit the market growth to some extent. Moreover. online retail and e-commerce, specialty coffee and gourmet beverages, and the rising popularity of home mixology to create remunerative opportunities for market growth.

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Report Coverage & Details:



Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 20232032 Base Year 2022 Market Size in 2022 $275.9 Million Market Size in 2032 $403.7 Million CAGR 3.9% No. of Pages in Report 157 Segments Covered Flavor Type, End Use, Distribution Channel, and Country Drivers Natural and clean label products Customization and personalization Restraints Competition from alternatives Distribution network complexity, shelf-life, and storage considerations Opportunities Online retail and e-commerce The rising popularity of home mixology

The fruits segment to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period-

Based on flavor type, the fruits segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-third of the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market revenue, and is estimated to maintain its leadership status throughout the forecast period. The fruit-flavored syrup market has witnessed notable trends, including the growing preference for natural fruit flavors. Consumers seek products made with real fruit extracts and natural ingredients. However, the caramel segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast timeframe. Businesses can capitalize on this opportunity by offering a diverse range of caramel syrups, including different intensity levels and variations like buttery caramel or toffee caramel.

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The cocktails segment to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period-

Based on end use, the cocktail segment held the highest market share in 2022, accounting for nearly one-fourth of the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market revenue and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the forecast period. The market is witnessing continuous flavor innovation, with manufacturers introducing new and unconventional flavor combinations to cater to evolving consumer preferences. This trend allows mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts to experiment with exciting flavor profiles, creating novel and enticing beverages. On the other hand, the iced lattes and frappes segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 4.2% from 2023 to 2032. In the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market for iced lattes and frappes includes a growing demand for unique and indulgent flavor combinations.

The hypermarket and supermarket segment to maintain its lead position during the forecast period-

Based on distribution channel, the supermarket and hypermarket segment held the highest market share in 2022, contributing to nearly one-third of the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market revenue and is projected to maintain its lead position during the forecast period. These retail outlets are important for introducing new flavors, promoting popular brands, and meeting the demands of shoppers who prefer to buy flavored syrups while doing their regular grocery shopping. Furthermore, the online sales channel segment is projected to manifest the highest CAGR of 4.4% from 2023 to 2032.This is due to online platforms offer a wide selection of flavored syrups, giving customers many options from different brands, flavors, and packaging choices.

UK garnered the major share by 2032-

Based on country, the UK held the highest market share in 2022, garnering more than four-fifths of the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market revenue, In the UK flavored syrup market, several trends are shaping the industry. One trend is the growing demand for natural and clean-label ingredients, as consumers seek healthier options and avoid artificial additives. However, Ireland is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 6.5% from 2023 to 2032. Flavored syrup market trends in Ireland include a growing demand for natural and artisanal flavors, as consumers prioritize healthier and high-quality options. There is also an increasing interest in unique and innovative flavor combinations, allowing consumers to experiment and create personalized beverage experiences.

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Industry-Leading Players: -

American Beverage Marketers

Beyond the Bean Ltd.

Britvic plc

Giffard

Italian Beverage Company Ltd.

Kerry Group Plc

Monin Inc

Routin S.A.S.

William Fox Drinks Co Ltd.

Funkin limited

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the UK and Ireland flavored syrup market. These players have adopted different strategies such as collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different countries. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario.

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Hein Schumacher, Unilevers chief executive, says giving some brands social purpose simply wont be relevant - Unilever/Reuters

Unilever will no longer seek to force-fit all of its brands with a social purpose, its new chief executive said, following a backlash over the companys virtue-signalling.

Hein Schumacher, who took over from Alan Jope in July, said for some of its brands, giving them a social or environmental purpose simply wont be relevant or it will be an unwelcome distraction.

He added: I believe that a social and environmental purpose is not something that we should force-fit on every brand.

It marks a change in position from Mr Jope, who placed social purpose at the centre of his strategy for Unilever. In 2019, he pledged to sell off brands that are not able to stand for something more important than just making your hair shiny, your skin soft, your clothes whiter or your food tastier.

The stance prompted a backlash from the City, amid growing frustration at blue chip companies for prioritising fashionable causes over profits.

Terry Smith, one of Britains best-known investors, has criticised Unilever for becoming obsessed with its public image and accused the company of virtue signalling rather than focusing on financial performance.

He said in January last year: A company which feels it has to define the purpose of Hellmanns mayonnaise has, in our view, clearly lost the plot.

Speaking on Thursday, Mr Schumacher said Unilever was not giving up on purpose-led brands altogether. He said for some brands such as Dove, giving them a social or environmental purpose was logical, as it made them more attractive for shoppers. Dove uses the idea of real beauty in its marketing campaigns, featuring women with different body types.

The Unilever chief said Ben & Jerrys was another of its brands which has a clear purpose.

The ice cream brand is known for adopting stances on political issues, championing causes including protecting the environment and defending LGTBQ+ and refugee rights.

However, Unilever has clashed with Ben & Jerrys over its activism in the past. Mr Jope told the ice cream company in July last year it should steer clear of straying into geopolitics after the brand attempted to boycott the Palestinian occupied territories. Unilever later sold Ben & Jerrys Israeli operations.

Story continues

Ben & Jerrys has not spoken publicly about the Israel-Hamas conflict since the war broke out.

Mr Schumacher said on Thursday: Theyve been vocal indeed before because of the social mission that Ben and Jerrys definitely has. On the conflict, I just have no comment at the moment. Its not a topic of discussion.

It came as Mr Schumacher unveiled a wider shake-up of the company on Thursday intended to address underperformance. It included an overhaul of the companys leadership team, moving the president of its beauty and wellbeing business Fernando Fernandez to become its new chief financial officer. He is replacing Graeme Pitkethly who is retiring. Unilever is also replacing the head of its nutrition and ice cream businesses.

Mr Schumacher said: The quality of our growth, productivity and returns have all under-delivered.

Unilever is a company of many strengths, including, its category positions, the strength of its brands, its unmatched geographic reach and talented and passionate people. However, there has been a disconnect between these intrinsic strengths and the quality of our performance.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Unilever posted a 5.2pc rise in underlying sales for the three months to October compared with a year earlier as it was boosted by higher prices.

However, sales volumes fell by 10pc in Europe, driven by a fall in demand which it blamed on bad weather over the summer.

As part of the strategy shake-up, Mr Schumacher said the company was planning no major or transformational acquisitions. It follows a disastrous failed 50bn bid to buy GlaxoSmithKlines consumer healthcare division last year.

Investors were left unconvinced that Mr Schumachers plans were radical enough, with Unilevers shares falling as much as 3.5pc on the announcement.

Analysts at Jefferies said there was not much to excite in the latest update, adding that it was light on numbers and change.

Mr Schumacher has also come under pressure to address Unilevers decision to keep selling its products in Russia since taking over as chief executive.

The Telegraph revealed earlier this year that Ukrainian veterans had written directly to Mr Schumacher, urging him to quit Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine. They warned Unilever staff risked being conscripted into the war.

On Thursday, Mr Schumacher said Unilever would continue to look at its options, adding: It is clear that the containment actions that we have taken minimise Unilevers economic contribution to the Russian state.

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The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has cemented its alliance with Saudi Telecom Company (STC), affirming a 15-year collaboration announced at the seventh annual Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh. This partnership showcases the joint vision of RCU and STC to drive AlUlas digital transformation.

As part of this venture, STC will integrate neutral host infrastructure into AlUlas existing ICT (information and communication technology) framework, which includes 5G enablement.

This will solidify the countys technological landscape, paving the way for high-speed, robust infrastructure advances to streamline digital capabilities and elevate AlUlas progress on its digital transformation journey.

Myriad of opportunities

Neutral fibre optic networks are networks that are open to all service providers. They can offer benefits such as lower costs, higher speeds, and greater efficiency through sharing of resources.

The RCU-STC strategic partnership will not only improve the availability and quality of telecommunication in AlUla but also provide a myriad of opportunities for technologies that require high speeds and efficiency.

Such improvements in telecommunications mean that more companies can serve AlUlas residents and visitors, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to raise service quality throughout the Kingdom.

Community-first approach

The integration of top-tier telecommunication technologies embodies RCUs dedication to its community-first approach, focusing on enhancing residents quality of life through digital advancement.

Emphasising the strategic value of this partnership, Waleed AlDayel, RCUs Chief of Strategy and Digital, remarked: Our collaboration with STC is an immensely significant step in AlUlas digital transformation journey. By building advanced telecommunication infrastructure, we are setting the foundation for innovation, creating boundless opportunities for our community, and ensuring AlUla stands at the forefront of technological progress.--TradeArabia News Service
A potential meeting between President Joe Biden and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping next month is poised to install "the most solid guardrail" for the bilateral relationship, according to former top US envoy for East Asia Susan Thornton.

The fact of a face-to-face exchange could show the world that Washington and Beijing can manage their relations and that talking with each other is "not a concession", she said, in an exclusive interview with the South China Morning Post.

"It seems to me that both sides are working pretty hard toward making that [meeting] happen," said Thornton on Friday, who was in China as part of a delegation from the New York-based National Committee on American Foreign Policy.

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.

Days after the interview, California Governor Gavin Newsom welcomed Xi to his state for next month's Apec forum - seen as the likeliest opportunity for the two leaders to meet for the first time since Bali a week ago.

Beijing's official statement on Newsom's meeting with Xi on Wednesday, during a week-long visit to China, did not mention the invitation.

Susan Thornton, pictured in 2017 during her tenure as US acting assistant secretary of state East Asian and Pacific affairs. Photo: Xinhua alt=Susan Thornton, pictured in 2017 during her tenure as US acting assistant secretary of state East Asian and Pacific affairs. Photo: Xinhua>

While Beijing has yet to confirm whether Xi will attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation leaders' forum, there have been increasing official contacts in recent months between the US and China, raising hopes of a Xi-Biden summit.

China's top diplomat Wang Yi is due to arrive in Washington for three days on Thursday, potentially to firm up the details of the long-awaited meeting.

Story continues

His trip follows high-level visits to China by delegations from the Biden administration and a bipartisan US Senate group.

Thornton, a former US acting assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, said the Apec forum was likely to be the last time in Biden's current term that he could meet with Xi, given the run-up to the 2024 US presidential election.

She noted that people were "quite realistic" about their expectations for the potential summit.

"The two presidents meeting is really the most solid kind of constraint or guardrail that we have on the relationship at the moment," she said.

"The fact of the meeting is, of course, important. The two presidents talking and heightening their mutual understanding of how they see things is also very important."

Thornton said she perceived a steadying upwards trend in the relationship following conversations with officials and scholars during her visit to China.

Along with other US experts, including the State Department's former top China policy official Rick Waters, Thornton met Yang Tao, the Chinese foreign ministry's head of North American and Oceanian affairs last Monday.

According to the ministry, they exchanged views on the Sino-US relationship, cooperation in various fields, Ukraine and the Middle East issues.

Thornton pushed back against criticism that the recent US-China meetings were merely "a talk shop". "That is totally incorrect."

According to Thornton, the Covid-19 pandemic did "way more damage to US-China relations than anything else" and the two countries are en route to re-establishing a communication rhythm after the years-long gap.

She hoped that a Biden-Xi summit would send a strong signal to the global public "that the US and China can talk, can manage relations and have a lot to do together and talk about together, and that we shouldn't be afraid to talk to one another".

"Meeting is not a concession, it doesn't show weakness," she added.

Thornton said she expected the meeting to also reassure people that travelling between the two countries is "normal, acceptable, welcome and safe", to help get students, especially from the US to China, flowing again.

She also highlighted the importance of the two presidents showing that they endorse the working groups the two countries had set up in the recent months and "want them to work constructively".

The Economic Working Group (EWG), launched last month after US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen's trip to Beijing in July, held its first meeting earlier this week, which Washington characterised as "productive" and Beijing called "constructive".

A Xi-Biden summit would come at a time of escalated conflicts in Gaza and Israel in addition to the ongoing war in Ukraine. As Beijing rolled out the red carpet for world leaders attending its belt and road forum, Biden flew to Tel Aviv last week for direct presidential-level diplomacy.

"It's going to be a long time before we see China raising its hand to do something similar, but it doesn't mean that we can't work together," Thornton said.

"It would be very important for President Biden and President Xi to talk about Israel-Palestine to see if there's anything we can do," she said, adding that the US and China also have "a lot of commonalities" in their positions.

The potential meeting between Biden and Xi would also be only two months ahead of the presidential election in Taiwan, an island that has become one of the thorniest issues in the growing discords between Washington and Beijing.

Thornton said she expected the US would try to give some assurances to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

She also expressed hopes that China and the US could make progress on the fentanyl issue.

"That would actually go a long, long way toward moving relations to a more trust-based state of play and also show American people that these meetings with China ... can produce real outcomes," she said.

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.
By Nick Carey and Victoria Waldersee

BERLIN (Reuters) -Volkswagen is working to cut costs and sticking with its electric vehicle prices despite reductions at some rivals, as the German automaker aims to rebuild margins after quarterly profits were hit by bad bets on raw material prices.

A programme targeting 10 billion euros ($10.6 billion) in savings at its main passenger cars brand is delayed, but some measures have already been implemented, Chief Financial Officer Arno Antlitz said on Thursday, confirming a Reuters report.

"There will be communication as soon as they are ready. We shouldn't be worried about a month or two delay," Antlitz said of the plans.

The company, in the midst of a strategy shift to slash fixed costs and improve productivity, confirmed preliminary third-quarter results released on Friday that cut its profit margin guidance for this year, disappointing investors.

"We cannot be satisfied with our profitability, which dragged behind our ambitious targets in the third quarter," Antlitz said in a statement.

The carmaker's planning round, where it sets budgets for five-year spending, will conclude in mid-November but Antlitz said the company would no longer communicate results directly afterwards, instead updating shareholders at the company's annual news conference in March.

EV DEMAND

Volkswagen joined a chorus of carmakers and analysts warning in recent days that demand for electric vehicles (EV) is not developing as expected, with the German group's own order intake for EVs down to 150,000 in Europe from 300,000 last year.

Still, orders increased slowly in the third quarter from the first half and should rise further in coming months, Antlitz said, adding the company was sticking to its targets.

In China, where Volkswagen has enjoyed a market-leading position in the combustion engine era but is now competing against a swathe of local producers, it may lose battery EV market share in the next year or two until the two models it is producing with China's Xpeng come to market, he added.

Story continues

High interest rates are derailing the shift to EVs across the globe, underscored on Wednesday by the scrapping of a GM-Honda partnership and a warning from battery maker LG Energy Solution.

Subdued demand has prompted some EV makers, including Tesla, to cut prices.

Volkswagen on Thursday confirmed it made 78.8 billion euros in third-quarter sales, with operating profit rising 14% to 4.9 billion euros.

The company said it still expected to deliver between 9 million and 9.5 million vehicles to customers this year, and for group sales revenue to be 10% to 15% higher than in 2022.

($1 = 0.9486 euros)

(Reporting by Victoria Waldersee and Nick Carey Editing by Jamie Freed, Mark Potter and Tomasz Janowski)
A Colorado company tried to pay $23,500 in coins. Douglas Sacha/Getty Images

A Colorado welding company tried to pay $23,500 to a subcontractor in coins, CBS reported.

A judge said the payment made with 6,500 pounds  or 3 tons  of coins was malicious and "in bad faith."

He ordered the welding firm to make payment in a more conventional way, such as a check.

A Colorado welding company that tried to make a $23,500 payment in coins has been blasted by a judge for acting "maliciously and in bad faith," CBS News Colorado reported.

JMF Enterprises' payment method  which came in the form of a truckload of coins  was aimed at "frustrating and undermining" the receiver by making payment "cumbersome and costly," Joseph Findley, a Larimer County judge, wrote in his Monday ruling, per CBS.

Findley ordered JMF and its owner John Frank to pay Colorado-based subcontractor, Fired Up Fabrication, in a more conventional way  such as using a check or money order. He also ordered JMF to pay Fired Up Fabrication's lawyer fees and costs.

The dispute arose after JMF hired Fired Up Fabrication to work on an apartment building, per the local CBS station. It's unclear when the work took place.

However, the subcontractor later filed a civil lawsuit, claiming JMF did not pay it for the work in full, per the outlet.

The two companies then went to mediation to settle the dispute in July and JMF agreed to pay Fired Up Fabrication $23,500. Their agreement did not state how the payment should be made.

In August, JMF delivered the payment to Fired Up Fabrication's lawyer in a truck, transporting a huge box filled with loose coins  in the form of quarters, dimes, nickels and pennies  weighing over 6,500 pounds or 3 tons, per CBS.

A CBS tweet appears to show the massive delivery of coins.

"Even if I wanted to take this box of coins, I had no way of doing so," Danielle Beem, the legal representative for Fired Up Fabrication, told CBS. The lift in the building Beem's office is located in has a 3,000-pound capacity.

Story continues

Beem declined the delivery and told the outlet JMF's move was "petty" and a "waste of time." She also called the stunt "a symbolic middle finger."

After that, JMF tried to get the court to get her to accept the mountain of coins, but the judge agreed with the Fired Up Fabrication legal rep while delivering Monday's ruling.

Frank and JMF's lawyer Giovanni Camacho did not respond to requests from Insider for comment. Frank and Camacho did not respond to numerous requests for comment from CBS.

Fired Up Fabrication's legal representative did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider
SHANGHAI, Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Xiao-I Corporation (Nasdaq: AIXI) ("Xiao-I" or the "Company"), a leading cognitive artificial intelligence ("AI") enterprise in China, today announced the launch of its ground-breaking Hua Zang Universal Large Language Model Ecosystem (the "Hua Zang Ecosystem") at its flagship technology event. The introduction is poised to set new standards for AI-driven communication and customer experience enhancement.

The Hua Zang Ecosystem is a testament to Xiao-I's commitment to providing state-of-the-art solutions for businesses and further advancing the field of conversational AI. By leveraging the latest advancements in AI technology, these services enable organizations to unlock the potential of AI-powered virtual assistants and chatbots to seamlessly facilitate interactions with their customers.

Moreover, H.E. Muhannad Alnaqbi, the Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Shanghai, attended the technology event, underlining the international significance and scope of the Hua Zang Ecosystem.

Xiao-I's CEO Hui Yuan expressed excitement about this milestone, stating, "We believe that the Hua Zang Universal Large Language Model has opened a new chapter in the AI era. Successful large language models require an entirely new business ecosystem, and Xiao-I is dedicated to creating that, as proven with our Hua Zang Ecosystem." Yuan added, "Xiao-I is not only a leader in cognitive intelligence technology and the AI industry, but also an innovator exploring business customization and monetization strategies for large language models."

Customization:

The Hua Zang Ecosystem is a comprehensive system with distinctive product support via the Hua Zang Developer Platform. This platform is designed to streamline development, application, and operational aspects, fostering synergy for speed, cost-effectiveness, and high efficiency. Tailor-made solutions are available to match specific business requirements, enabling unique and branded conversational AI experiences.

Story continues

Since its inception in 2023, Hua Zang has cultivated partnerships with over 100 renowned business collaborators spanning over 20 diverse industries. These ventures have produced remarkable and commendable results.

For instance, Xiao-I has facilitated the rapid deployment of AI applications for companies within a mere four-week timeframe. Hua Zang's transformer architecture empowers the model to efficiently handle extended data sequences and vast contextual information, ensuring the production of high-quality outputs.

The Goal of Business Monetization:

This event also showcased Hua Zang Ecosystem's pursuit of "enabling industries and achieving excellence" through business monetization. Through extensive practical experience, the Hua Zang Ecosystem has developed a streamlined methodology for implementing large language model projects. This approach involves enhancing result evaluations, refining data training, optimizing model tools, and establishing clear project implementation procedures.

With "Business Monetization" as its core goal, the Hua Zang Ecosystem offers three service guarantees in incubation, marketing, and investment, and is pioneering a system encompassing capability iteration to platform support.

About Xiao-I Corporation

Xiao-I Corporation is a leading cognitive intelligence enterprise in China that offers a diverse range of business solutions and services in artificial intelligence, covering natural language processing, voice and image recognition, machine learning and affective computing. Since its inception in 2001, the Company has developed an extensive portfolio of cognitive intelligence technologies that are highly suitable and have been applied to a wide variety of business cases. Xiao-I powers its cognitive intelligence products and services with its cutting-edge, proprietary AI technologies to enable and promote industrial digitization, intelligent upgrading, and transformation. For more information, please visit: www.xiaoi.com .

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company's current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as "approximates," "assesses," "believes," "hopes," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "projects," "intends," "plans," "will," "would," "should," "could," "may" or similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company's registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

Ms. Berry Xia

Phone: +86 186 8158 5169

Email: ir@xiaoi.com

Cision

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SOURCE Xiao-I Corporation
(Bloomberg) -- Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said that the US relationship with China is in a more positive place now after a dangerous period when there were about two years of little contact between senior officials of the worlds top two economies.

Most Read from Bloomberg

In more or less over two years, almost no senior-level contact had taken place during the pandemic between China and the United States, and I think that was a dangerous situation, Yellen said at an event in Bloombergs Washington office Thursday. Thats particularly true at times of disagreement, she said.

That lapse ended when Presidents Joe Biden and Xi Jinping met in Bali, Indonesia, about a year ago. Since then, several US cabinet secretaries, including Yellen, have visited China. Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi is expected to meet with Biden Friday, ahead of a potential Biden-Xi bilateral next month.

We need to work together on global problems, Yellen said. Debt relief is one of those problems, climate change is another, but there are many examples.

Yellen was in China in July, her first visit to the US competitor as Treasury chief. At the time, she described it as a mission to revive engagement between Washington and Beijing that had deteriorated amid frictions over issues ranging from Taiwan to technology.

As part of her trip, she held five hours of talks with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in Beijing, the first in-depth exchange between the nations top economic policymakers as they seek to dial back strains in the relationship.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2023 Bloomberg L.P.
Zimperium Recognized as the "Most Innovative Mobile App Security" company in the 11th Cyber Defense Magazine's Annual InfoSec Awards during CyberDefenseCon 2023

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zimperium , the only mobile-first security platform for mobile devices and mobile apps, is proud to announce it has been named the Most Innovative Mobile App Security company from Cyber Defense Magazine (CDM), the industry's leading electronic information security magazine.

Zimperium (PRNewsfoto/Zimperium)

"Zimperium secures the entire mobile ecosystem  from applications to endpoints  and we pride ourselves on providing a 'single pane of glass' to mobile-powered organizations around the world," said Shridhar Mittal, CEO of Zimperium. "We're thrilled to be recognized by Cyber Defense Magazine during CyberDefenseCon 2023 , where the Top Global CISOs exclusively gather by invitation only. This is another testament to our dedication to protecting enterprises from today's growing and evolving mobile security threats, and we are eager to continue this mission in 2024 and beyond."

With the explosion of remote work, distributed devices and the increased use of mobile for everything from e-commerce, personal finance to communication, it's no surprise that mobile has become one of the most targeted attack surfaces. 80% of daily work is performed on a mobile device and cyberattacks that target mobile have doubled every six months for the last three years. Zimperium is the worldwide leader in defending enterprises, governments and the people that work inside these organizations from mobile threats. The Zimperium Mobile-First Security Platform unifies Zimperium Mobile Threat Defense (MTD) - formerly known as zIPS - and Mobile Application Protection Suite (MAPS) , unleashing powerful new features designed for teams who bear security responsibility across the entire mobile security spectrum.

"Zimperium embodies three major features we judges look for with the potential to become winners: understanding tomorrow's threats, today, providing a cost-effective solution and innovating in unexpected ways that can help mitigate cyber risk and get one step ahead of the next breach," said Gary S. Miliefsky, Publisher of Cyber Defense Magazine.

Story continues

The full list of the Top InfoSec Innovators for 2023 is found here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-infosec-innovators-for-2023/

About Zimperium

Zimperium enables companies to realize the full potential of mobile-powered business by activating a Mobile-First Security Strategy. Built for the demands of mobile business, Zimperium's Mobile-First Security Platform delivers unmatched security across both applications and devices. Only Zimperium delivers autonomous mobile security that dynamically adapts to changing environments so companies can capitalize on the new world of mobile-powered opportunities, securely. Zimperium is headquartered in Dallas, Texas and backed by Liberty Strategic Capital and SoftBank. For more information, follow Zimperium on Twitter ( @Zimperium ) and LinkedIn , or visit www.Zimperium.com .

About Cyber Defense Awards

This is Cyber Defense Magazine's 11th year of honoring cybersecurity innovators, in this case the Top Global CISOs for 2023, on our Cyber Defense Awards platform. In this competition, judges for these and other prestigious awards includes cybersecurity industry veterans, trailblazers and market makers Gary Miliefsky of CDMG, Dr. Lindsey Polley de Lopez of VentureScope, Robert R. Ackerman Jr. of Allegis Cyber, Dino Boukouris of MomentumCyber and with much appreciation to emeritus judges Robert Herjavec of Cyderes, Dr. Peter Stephenson of CDMG and David DeWalt of NightDragon. Top InfoSec Innovators for 2023 is found here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-infosec-innovators-for-2023/ and download The Black Unicorn Report for 2023: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/the-black-unicorn-report-for-2023/ and Top Global CISOs Winners for 2023, here: https://cyberdefenseawards.com/top-global-cisos-winners-for-2023/ .

About Cyber Defense Magazine

Cyber Defense Magazine was founded in 2012 by Gary S. Miliefsky, globally recognized cyber security thought leader, inventor and entrepreneur and continues to be the premier source of IT Security information. We are managed and published by and for ethical, honest, passionate information security professionals. Our mission is to share cutting-edge knowledge, real-world stories and awards on the best ideas, products and services in the information technology industry. We deliver electronic magazines every month online for free, and limited special editions exclusively for the RSA, BlackHat and Cyber Defense Conferences. Learn more about us at http://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com . Cyber Defense Magazine is a proud member of the Cyber Defense Media Group.

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Email: zimperium@luminapr.com

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SOURCE Zimperium
EXETER, R.I., Oct. 26, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Zinnia Health , a nationwide behavioral health treatment network, and Unite Us , the nation's leading software company that enables cross-sector collaboration to improve people's health and well-being, are joining forces to establish a centralized platform that streamlines vital access for veterans and first responders to community-based resources through a robust, coordinated care network.

Unite Us logo (PRNewsfoto/Unite Us)

Together, Zinnia Health and Unite Us will securely connect people in need with community-based resources that can otherwise be difficult to navigate. The Healing for Heroes program, powered by Unite Us, provides a central point of contact where health and wellness providers can securely receive referrals for people who struggle with substance abuse and connect them to treatment program services while monitoring progress and measuring outcomes.

Zinnia Health's Healing for Heroes program in Exeter, Rhode Island caters to the needs of veterans, active-duty military, police officers, corrections officers, firefighters, and paramedics. Zinnia Health's philosophy is to bring recovery to men and women who suffer from substance abuse and addiction through compassion and understanding. The company has designed programs to break through to the core issues that drive negative, destructive, and codependent behaviors.

"Here at Zinnia, we made it our mission to offer Rhode Island's veterans and first responders a place to heal and feel at home. It's our pleasure to offer Healing for Heroes and meet you exactly where you're at in your personal mission for recovery," said Kristi Provuncher, General Manager, Zinnia Health Exeter.

In Rhode Island, Unite Us helps connect people to much-needed resources and services, such as harm reduction support, transportation, and mental and behavioral assistance. Partners in the Rhode Island network are connected through Unite Us' shared technology platform, enabling them to securely receive electronic referrals and address people's health and social needs with wraparound support to improve community health.

Story continues

"Unite Us' collaboration with Zinnia Health will improve care for first responders, veterans, and active-duty military by connecting Zinnia Health patients to wellness resources that impact people's day-to-day lives," said Laudine Koster, Associate Director of Customer and Community Success, Unite Us. "Through the network, Zinnia Health will use Unite Us' platform to connect patients to harm reduction and behavioral clinical care programs that will provide a path to recovery and enable them to thrive and live healthier lives."

Based on 2021 Vista Research , clients who completed inpatient care with Zinnia Health experienced a 94% satisfaction rate, and 98% of clients diagnosed with severe depression reported improvement after treatment.

Nonprofits, community-based organizations, and other providers who want to connect their clients and patients to Zinnia Health's services within Unite Us' network can reach out to uniteus.com/contact/ .

About Zinnia Health

Since 2019, Zinnia Health has become an acknowledged leader nationwide in the substance abuse and mental health treatment field. Zinnia Heath operates treatment facilities in FL, CA, CO, IN, MI, RI, and NJ. Increased accessibility to our Healing for Heroes programs for veterans and first responders amplifies our impact and drives lasting recovery for everyone, everywhere. Follow Zinnia Health on LinkedIn , YouTube , Facebook , and Instagram .

About Unite Us

Unite Us is the nation's leading software company enabling collaboration across sectors to improve the health and well-being of communities. Unite Us' secure solution establishes a new standard of care that identifies social care needs, helps connect people to services, and leverages meaningful outcomes data to further drive community investment. Through Unite Us' national network and software, community-based organizations, government agencies, health plans, and healthcare providers are all connected to better collaborate and meet the needs of the individuals in their communities. Follow Unite Us on LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , and Facebook .

Zinnia Health Media Contact

Olivia Chatain

Marketing Associate

olivia.chatain@zinniahealth.com

Unite Us Media Contact

Jaquetta Gooden

Communications Manager

jaquetta.gooden@uniteus.com

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SOURCE Unite Us
Bullying, cell phones, access to banned books, and accommodations for English-language learners and Muslim students are all issues of concern for students of James Monroe High School, according to those who spoke at Wednesday mornings Students Speak Out session.

All six members of the Fredericksburg City School Board and superintendent Marci Catlett were at the high school for the event, which was the first of its kind hosted by the school division.

One of the annual goals set by the School Board is to persistently ... implement strategies to increase student participation in board activities.

Division staff at the Sept. 11 School Board meeting presented the idea for the session as one way to achieve this goal.

At the first of two events at James Monroe on Monday, School Board Chair Jennifer Boyd called a mini meeting into session and then invited students to address the board.

Your voices matter, Boyd told the assembled students. Your insights have the potential to shape the future of your schools  and they will always be your schools. Our job is to be receptive and listen. We encourage you to speak your mind  your voices matter and they will be heard.

Students signed up beforehand to speak at the session.

Im here to talk about the bullying of LGBTQIA students, said Aspen Gentry. They said they have experienced suicidal thoughts as a result of bullying and asked the School Board to push for harsher punishments for hate speech.

Two Muslim students whose families immigrated to the U.S. from Pakistan asked for accommodations during the school day to practice the five daily prayers that are a pillar of the Islamic faith.

Muslims are called to pray at sunrise, after noon, in the late afternoon, at sunset and before going to bed. The students said they would work with school administration to dedicate a space for prayers that occur during the school day.

We understand that our education is important, but so is our faith, a student said.

Amelie Tschirn, a freshman, asked the School Board to ensure that students have access to banned books. She said the school library could house these books in a special section so students would be able to choose whether or not to seek them out.

Many of these books focus on LGBTQ characters, Tschirn said. These books help kids feel not as alone and can enlighten others on the struggles of real people in this community.

Several students whose families have immigrated to the Fredericksburg area in the past few years asked for more support for English learners.

Twenty percent of the divisions students are English learners, according to the superintendents annual report for 2022-23, and more than 30 different languages are represented.

Omain, who came from Afghanistan, said he struggles with the schools cell phone policy, which prevents phones from being used during class.

We need our phones for translation, he said.

Aracelli Castillo, who said she arrived in the U.S. by herself at age 14, spoke about the need for more bilingual teachers.

JMs only bilingual Spanish-speaking teachers are Spanish language teachers, she said. We need more bilingual teachers in other subjects.

Another 17-year-old native Spanish-speaking student, who has been in the U.S. for two years and said he works 35-45 hours per week in addition to attending school, asked for more acceptance of English learners.

I feel humiliated by English speakers, the student said. I dont get good grades because I dont have the English. (With more support,) maybe I can pass the SOL exams so I can graduate.

The division is planning to host a Students Speak Out session for Walker-Grant Middle School students sometime this winter.

According to the Sept. 11 staff presentation, student input from the sessions will be used to generate short- and long-term goals for school improvement.
Nick Ignacio, a candidate for clerk of Circuit Court in Spotsylvania County, has been prohibited from handing out sample ballots, paid for by the Fredericksburg Virginia Patriots, that identify him as the endorsed candidate by both the Democratic and Republican committees.

Michael Levy, Stafford Circuit Courts presiding judge, granted the order for a temporary and permanent injunction at a hearing Thursday morning.

Ignacio is hereby enjoined and prohibited from distribution of any of the FVP ballots described in this petition (and from) producing any election or campaign material stating that it is paid for or authorized by the Fredericksburg Virginia Patriots or FVP or any other iteration of that nonexistent legal entity known generally as Fredericksburg Virginia Patriots or FVP, the order reads.

It continues to state that Ignacio is prohibited from producing election or campaign material without the proper authentication required by Virginia Code and from directing, cooperating with, or coordinating with any other person to engage in any of the above enjoined and prohibited actions.

Ryan Mehaffey, who is running unopposed for Spotsylvania Commonwealths Attorney, petitioned the court for the injunction. He filed the paperwork on Monday and the case was heard on an expedited basis.

Levy agreed with Mehaffeys assertion that the FVP sample ballots fail to conform with the requirements of Virginias stand by your ad law, found in Virginia Code section 24.2-956.

Specifically, the sample ballots fail to include the disclosure statement Paid for and authorized by Nick Ignacio, candidate for clerk of Circuit Court and the disclosure statement that does exist on Ignacios sample ballots is printed in a font smaller than the minimum seven-point font required.

No other remedy but an injunction can prevent further irreparable harm to the vote count, Mehaffey said in court. No public good is served by allowing (Ignacio) to not comply with the law.

According to the petition Mehaffey filed this week, multiple voters were misled into believing the FVP ballot(s) were the unofficial sample ballots of the Spotsylvania Republican or Democrat committees and were upset when they realized the true nature of the FVP ballot.

The petition cites one voter, Pablo Cuadrado, who stated that he voted for Ignacio and for Steve Maxwell, candidate for Sheriff, because he was misled into believing that they were Democrat-endorsed candidates by the presentation of the FVP Democrat ballot to him.

Ignacio, who described himself as a professional consultant to campaigns, represented himself in court and asked for the case to be dismissed, accusing Mehaffey of acting as a surrogate for Christy Jett, the incumbent Circuit Court clerk.

He said the sample ballots are a suggestion to voters and that he has assurance from Richmond that the FVP ballots are legal.

Its been done to death. Its all over the news. These ballots are legal, he said.

Levy asked Ignacio if he had any opinions on the legality of the sample ballots in writing, and Ignacio said he did not.

Levy denied Ignacios request to dismiss the case and granted the injunction, which is in effect through Nov. 8.
A Missouri woman was sentenced Tuesday to the maximum of three years in prison after she was found guilty of causing a deadly crash that killed an Omaha man earlier this year.

Lorena Lara-Diaz, 38, of Marshall, Missouri, appeared in front of a packed courtroom Tuesday afternoon for sentencing after she pleaded no contest and was found guilty of felony motor vehicle homicide. She was initially charged with manslaughter for causing the March crash that killed 45-year-old motorcyclist Gary Mangiameli, but that charge was reduced as part of a plea deal.

Lara-Diaz was sentenced to three years in jail, the statutory maximum, by Douglas County District Court Judge Peter Bataillon. Though the family was glad she received the maximum sentence, they still dont feel that justice was served.

She really deserves 20 years, Mangiamelis uncle, Richard Mangiameli, said in court Tuesday. I think this law has to change.

According to court documents, police were called to 26th and L Streets at about 2:20 a.m. on March 25 to reports of a crash between a motorcycle and pickup truck.

The investigation showed that Lara-Diaz, driving a Chevrolet Silverado, was eastbound on L Street before turning northbound onto the JFK Expressway on-ramp. Mangiameli was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle westbound on L Street when Lara-Diaz failed to yield and struck him in the intersection.

Mangiameli was pronounced dead at the hospital shortly after the crash.

Search warrant affidavits say that Lara-Diaz had an odor of alcoholic beverage on her person, but she refused field sobriety tests and later refused to take a breath test. Police did not request a warrant to test her blood to determine her blood alcohol content.

Prosecutors said in court Tuesday that Lara-Diaz admitted to drinking four margaritas at a nightclub near the scene of the crash before getting behind the wheel. Had she been charged with DUI motor vehicle homicide, she would have faced up to 20 years in prison.

In court Tuesday, Lara-Diaz apologized to Mangiamelis family through sobs.

Im very sorry for everything that happened, she said through a translator. I dont have the words.

Dozens of people submitted victim impact statements to the court about how the loss of Mangiameli has affected them. He was deeply family-oriented and was a father of seven children, the youngest ages 5 and 6.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) with industry partners has successfully tested the first fully integrated digital identity travel experience, from shopping for flights to arrival, on a journey from London Heathrow to Rome Fiumicino with British Airways.

Our vision for future travel is fully digital and secured with biometric identification. While the technology exists to do this at each stage of a journey, linking these steps together has proven challenging. Today with our partners we showed that it is possible. This will open up a world of possibilities for simpler journeys in the future, said Nick Careen, IATAs Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.

Todays journey illustrated the potential of a future fully integrated digital travel experience leveraging biometrics with:

Personalised Offers: This will be seen from the shopping experience where travellers will be able to receive personalised offers through all shopping channels. The LHR-FCO passenger shared their loyalty card data (stored as a verifiable credential in their smart phones digital wallet) with a travel agent. This enabled airlines, using the New Distribution Capability (NDC), to make personalised offers through the travel agent channel.

Simplified Orders: Once the traveller has chosen among the offers, an order is generated as a verifiable credential that can be stored in a digital wallet. No more Passenger Name Records (PNR), e-tickets or electronic miscellaneous documents are needed. All the information about the journey is stored in the verifiable credential, which can also be read as a QR code.

Effortless Travel Requirements Check: Many processes can be done long before the traveller gets to the airport. Along with the digital wallet, a digital passport (stored in the travellers digital wallet) will be a key enabler. By sharing the nationality data of the digital passport, passengers can confirm their travel document requirements. IATAs Timatic solution supports this.

Ready to Fly  Simplifying and Securing Check-ins: The LHR-FCO traveller also chose to share their digital passport and order data with their airline, British Airways, to receive a confirmation that they are ready-to-fly and seat assignment via text message, being spared from manual data input. Traditional boarding passes may become optional if travellers are offered, and accept a contactless experience at the airport.

Contactless Airport Experiences: For travellers who choose to share their biometric data, storing your phone and proceeding hands-free (with your phone and your passport in your pocket or purse) through the airport will be possible. Biometric gates cleared the way for the LHR-FCO traveller through security, into lounges and onto the aircraft.

As an airline, we are always innovating and looking at ways to make the customer journey as seamless as possible. We introduced biometric boarding on selected flights earlier this year and it has been a huge success with positive customer feedback. Working with IATA on enabling a fully integrated travel journey helps us build on that and shows us what could be possible in the future, said Dirk John, British Airways Chief Information and Digital Officer.

The companies involved in the project include Accenture, Amadeus, Australian Border Force, AWS, Branchspace, British Airways, IDnow, Aeroporti di Roma, SICPA, Trip.com, and Verchaska.

A Global Transformation

Critical industry process transformations and global standards are enabling this potential, in particular:

Modern Airline Retailing which is delivering a transparent, personalised shopping experience for air travellers, converting legacy ticketing processes to modern Offer and Order Standards and putting decentralised digital identity to work to enable dynamic and trusted open ecosystem at scale as well as integrated digital experiences for the travellers.

The goal is to create value for travellers by meeting their needs. Passengers want a personalized, seamless digital experience when shopping for air travel and they expect consistent service irrespective of whether they purchased their travel directly from the airline or via a third party. This is being achieved by modernising decades old standards, processes and technology to the digital environment, said Muhammad Albakri, IATAs Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.

One ID which is using digital identity and biometric technology to support the digitalisation of admissibility as well as contactless travel standards and making physical identity checks at check-in and boarding redundant.

In future, a smart phone storing a digital wallet that is loaded with your digital passport, loyalty cards and other verifiable travel credential, is all that will be needed to travel. Achieving that reality needs the kind of cooperation that we have demonstrated today with 11 companies coming together to facilitate the first fully integrated digital journey. Success, of course, is underpinned by interoperability and global standardsso the advantage of the digital travel conveniences are available to travellers throughout their journey and wherever it may take them, said Careen.

Privacy is a top priority with passenger processing standards designed to keep passengers in control of their personal data. Moreover, processes rely on the exchange of credentials (verified approvals based on data) which are shared peer-to-peer (with no intermediating party). And manual processing options will be retained so that travellers will have the ability to opt out of digital admissibility processing.

Interoperability is essential for global acceptance and is ensured with alignment to the International Civil Aviation Organizations (ICAO) standards, including those for the Digital Travel Credential and Digital Travel Authorisation.

Information from verifiable credentials is shared on a need-to-know basis. While a government may request detailed personal information to issue a visa or prove admissibility to travel, the only information that will be shared with the airline is that the traveller has a visa and which type. Passengers want complete control of their own data. And that is what they will getin a travel experience that is secure, simple and convenient, said Careen.

IATA Innovation Lab

The LHR-FCO journey is a Proof of Concept developed in the IATA Innovation Lab. The Innovation Lab brings together players from across the travel value chain to incubate solutions and test new technologies to overcome industry challenges. The aim is to help the aviation industry generate value as it transitions towards digitalisation.

Innovation is at the heart of the aviation industry, from exploring sustainable ways of flying to digitizing the passenger travel experience. Progress firmly rooted in collaboration. The IATA Innovation Lab brings the industry together to find pioneering solutions, through harnessing the power of partnerships," said Albakri.

The end-to-end journey using Digital Identity is outlined in a paper with the companies listed above as well as Turkish Airlines, SITA and Collins Aerospace.  TradeArabia News Service
NORFOLK  In mid-September, a person who lives in an apartment unit at 1414 S. Third St. in Norfolk called the police to report hearing pleas for help from somewhere in the building.

A month later, a maintenance employee at the building discovered a body in a chimney below the callers apartment, and police are now investigating the death.

On Wednesday, the body was identified as 29-year-old Zachariah Andrews of Norfolk. Norfolk Police said in a news release that they have been in "regular contact" with Andrews' family since the beginning of the investigation into the body.

The buildings owner, a tenant and a Norfolk police captain spoke recently about the September phone call, the discovery of the body, the early stages of the investigation and the oddity of the case.

According to call logs published by the Norfolk Police Division, a man phoned the police to report that he heard a male subject yelling for help on Sept. 16, a Saturday afternoon. Two officers arrived at the scene at 3:23 p.m. that day and left at 3:39 p.m.

A brief description of the officers response that day states that police were not able to identify any sort of disturbance, and that the noise the tenant heard may have been somebodys television.

A tenant in the building spoke on the condition of anonymity, explaining that he lives across the hall from the person who called police that day about the apparent cries for help. The tenant said he had spoken with both the landlord and the man who made the call.

And it was someone saying, Dear help me, Jesus. Help me, Jesus. Dear Jesus, help me, the tenant said.

At least one of the officers went to an apartment on the ground floor and heard TV audio from the hallway. The officer later told the original caller that the TV was the likely source of the noise.

The Daily News source said he believes a more thorough investigation into the cries for help could have been done.

This whole thing could have been prevented, he said.

The source said he has a hard time believing that somebody could get inside the chimney on their own, adding that he questions whether the death was accidental.

You don't accidentally climb 40 feet (to the apartment roof) and accidentally fall down a chimney, he said.

The tenant has familiarity with the chimney because he installed a camera system earlier this year for the building's owner, Glenn Wapelhorst, which required the man to run wiring down a wall next to the chimney.

A person would have to use a ladder to scale the roof of Hank and Snooks Mint Bar next door and then use a ladder to get from the roof of the bar to the roof of the apartment building, the tenant said. The top of the chimney is then another 7 feet above the roof.

You cant fall into it, the man said.

The resident further explained that in mid- to late September, some tenants at the building began to complain of a foul odor and swarms of flies in the building. There was blood in that area, the tenant said, and it was believed that an animal of some sort had become stuck and died.

Knowing now that the source of the bad smell was a decomposing human body instead of a dead animal, the tenant said he wonders how there could have been as much blood as there was. He believes that there arent any objects that could cause cuts during a fall down the length of the chimney.

The tenant said he couldnt help but wonder how scared the person must have been.

Youre stuck in a chimney, you can't move, you're not climbing up, not going down, the man said. You're screaming for help and no one's coming for you. Youre losing consciousness and losing body weight, you're getting hungry.  What was going through their mind would have been unimaginable, just pure fear.

Wapelhorst said a maintenance employee thought it was possible the putrid smell was caused by clay mixing in with soot and rain. But Wapelhorst asked him to investigate further, so the worker broke in a basement ceiling earlier this month, the day before the body was found, and found a string that resembled an opossum tail.

The maintenance worker agreed to return to the building the next day and remove what was believed to be a dead opossum.

Between 5 and 6 p.m. that day, he discovered the string was actually a shoelace, not a tail. He then called Wapelhorst to tell him what he found.

"He said, Glenn, its not a possum, its a person,' said Wapelhorst, who called police immediately after coming to the apartment building and seeing for himself a shoelace and what appeared to be a shoe.

The building, constructed in 1912, has been home to a number of different businesses, including a nursing home and a hotel with a restaurant. Wapelhorst said the chimney where the body was found has three different flues  one of which has conduits that run to the basement, and another that is used for a furnace. The middle flue, which is abandoned, is where the body was found, he said.

Near the bottom of the chimney, the flue is about 10 inches wide, Wapelhorst said. Toward the top may be wider, he said, but not by more than a few inches.

The landlord confirmed tenants statements that it would be quite difficult, if not impossible, for someone to access the chimney from the inside of the building. And accessing it from the top, he said, would be quite the feat if it was done solo.

On the day Andrews' body was found, Wapelhorst led police up to the chimney using a ladder. A person would need at least a 20-foot ladder to venture up to the apartment roof by way of the Mint Bar roof, he said, and also would require lots of strength to pull up onto the wide-rimmed chimney, he added.

Its perplexing that an individual did this, Wapelhorst said.

Wapelhorst was not at the property when police responded on Sept. 17. All he had been told at the time was that officers did not hear any calls for help or any noise other than a TV.

I cant speak to what they were like at that time, Wapelhorst said of the responding officers. I can just speak what they were like to deal with when they came on Thursday. They were very respectful, helpful, concerned, trying to figure out what was going on, and I didnt pick up a disconnected, lets-just-get-her-done kind of feeling from them, as far as what my experience was on Thursday.

Im really grateful for the work and the job that they do.

Wapelhorst does not think that the dead person was living at the apartment building because all of the tenants paid their rent during the first week of October, well after a voice pleading for help was heard by a tenant.

The landlord, who spoke to a reporter before Andrews was identified, said he is grieving for the dead person and for the person's family.

Capt. Michael Bauer with the Norfolk Police Division issued a press release saying that law enforcements initial investigation indicates that the persons death was accidental, although police planned to review all avenues.

Bauer confirmed that the police officers who went to 1414 S. Third St. on Sept. 17 were not able to determine the source of the noise that the caller had reported.

Asked if officers treat a report that may seem strange  such as the Sept. 17 phone call  the same as any other call, Bauer said: If there is a report of an individual asking for help, were going to respond no matter who the reporter is.

He believes the Sept. 17 call to be the only notification police received from anyone at 1414 S. Third St. that day about a voice calling for help.

As for the investigation into the death, police said they identified Andrews using scars, marks, tattoos and an identification card found with his body.

Bauer said he could not yet delve into why police believe the persons death was accidental.

This is a very unique situation that we are currently investigating, and it will continue until we have resolution of the case, he added.

In Wednesday's news release, the police said that a parking warning was placed on Andrews' vehicle on Sept. 20 and a missing persons report was made on Oct. 3.

He was last seen alive on Sept. 15 in Norfolk.

Wapelhorst, who has owned the apartment building since 2015, said he doesnt recall a time where there was any sort of suspicious activity on the roof.

Never in my wildest dreams did I think anything could have happened on the roof, he said.

The tenant who spoke on the condition of anonymity said there has been fear among some residents since the body was found last week.

Another tenant said last week that first responders had to break through a wall in his apartment to remove the body. A maintenance worker was repairing the wall Sunday afternoon.

That tenant has been staying with the source who spoke to the Daily News on Sunday. He plans to move into his friends apartment unit permanently because he doesnt see himself living in his own apartment anymore.

The Daily News source said he uses a different entrance at the apartment now to avoid walking near the area where the body was found. He said he sometimes doesnt even retrieve his mail unless its during the day.

The vibe is just different, he said.

Photos: 2023 Nebraska State Bandmasters Association marching contest State band Bellevue East helpers.JPG State band Bellevue West.JPG State band bulldog.JPG State band clouds.JPG State band fall colors.JPG State band Grace hug.JPG State band Gretna East.JPG State band light sticks.JPG State band Omaha North band.JPG State band Omaha north.JPG State band pushing speakers.JPG State band Sorry piece rez.JPG Statte band Lincoln Christian guard resize.JPG
At the highest points of the Andes mountain range near the Argentina and Chile border, the climate is inhospitable to almost all forms of life.

With regular gale force winds, temperatures well below the freezing point, and oxygen levels that are 40% of what they are at sea level, the area that makes up the Puna de Atacama high plateau is so inhospitable even NASA has used it as a practice region for searching for life on Mars.

Those conditions made it all that much more surprising for Jay Storz, a biology professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and his fellow researchers who found more than one dozen leaf-eared mice  both alive and dead  at the Llullaillaco volcanos peak and the peaks of other high-reaching volcanos including Volcan Pular.

That lack of oxygen imposes real constraints on an aerobic metabolism, Storz said.

Storz and a friend, Mario Perez Mamani, first discovered leaf-tipped mice living at those elevations when they captured a live mouse at the 22,000-foot peak of the Llullaillaco in 2020. Prior to that, according to a UNL press release, no mammal had ever been found living at such altitudes.

Storz said the initial expedition took place after he heard mountain climbers reported seeing mice.

For a small, warm-blooded mammal living at that elevation, its really a physiological challenge to deal with that lack of oxygen, said Storz, who has since taken part in other expeditions in the region.

In addition to finding live mice and trapping some of them, Storz and his fellow cohorts, which include UNL postdoctoral researchers Naim Bautista and Jose Urquizo, have also discovered 13 leaf-eared mouse bodies that have been mummified by the extreme cold and dry air.

Radiocarbon dating showed some of the mice died up to 350 years ago. Other mice died just in the last few decades. That both answers some questions and raises some new ones.

We know that this particular species of mouse has been present in this region of the central Andes for an extremely long period of time, Storz said.

He added researches dont exactly know how long leaf-eared mice have been living in that part of the world.

All we know is that the mice do exist there, Storz said. Theyre certainly not common. Theyre certainly not abundant. But they can be found even at those extreme heights.

Its likely the mice got to those high points on their own accord, Storz said. As to why they migrated there? Thats an open question.

Its really hard to understand why any animals would purposely seek that kind of environment, Storz said, adding the mices desire to flee from predators was one possible motivation.

Researchers are also looking at the potential impacts of climate change. He noted increasing temperatures are causing plants and animals to move gradually higher. That gradual trend could one day put other high elevation species such as the leaf-eared mouse back in the proximity of the danger they have avoided to this point.

For some of the species that are really specialized to the highest elevations, those are the ones that are at danger of extinction, Storz said. They cant go any higher up. They are at danger of being outcompeted by new species that potentially colonize those environments.

To this point, however, Storz has been impressed by the presence of life in one of the harshest of environments.

Before I started this work, I never would have imagined that these kinds of environments would be habitable by mammals, Storz said. Its amazing how life always finds a way.
An Air Force Academy cadet pleaded guilty during a hearing Thursday to using psilocybin and providing false information that could have blocked his appointment to the school.

Cadet Seth Misukanis confessed to Judge Col. Julie Pitvorec that he accepted a drink with psilocybin in it during a New Year's Eve Party in 2022 while on leave in Illinois. He told her that he knew his friend had been putting psilocybin in drinks and he knowingly accepted a drink with the drug in it. He tested positive for the drug in January, which could have been presented as evidence if the case had gone to a trial.

"It has brought great discredit to the Air Force and who I am," he said, in a statement ahead of his sentencing.

He also confessed to lying on a screening form about his use of psilocybin because he was concerned it would hurt his appointment to the Academy. Misrepresenting himself led to a fraudulent appointment charge.

As a part of the plea deal, charges of false statements and using cocaine were dismissed.

The academy was planning to disenroll Misukanis from the school Thursday, said Capt. Sarah Gaughan, a step that limited possible punishment in the case.

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Possible discipline included revoking two-thirds of his pay, restricting him to base and a reprimand, she said. Since he will no longer be a cadet, he will not be eligible to live on base or earn pay.

Pitvorec issued Misukanis a reprimand in her sentencing that will be part of the official record. She did not explain her decision.

Misukanis enlisted in the Air Force in 2018 and excelled at his first assignment in Germany where he worked in airplane fueling. His success there led to his acceptance into Air Force Academy's Preparatory School and then the Academy. While in school, he maintained a GPA above a 3.0 and his professors spoke highly of him, said Capt. Meaghan McHenry, his defense attorney.

The 23-year-old had hoped to become a pilot, he said in his sentencing statement.

Now he hopes to seek out "something that challenges me even more," he said.
Police are searching for a suspect responsible for robbing a convenience store at gunpoint in north Colorado Springs Wednesday night, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Officials said at 8:07 p.m. a man walked into a business near the 6800 block of North Nevada Avenue, armed with a handgun.

"The suspect demanded the employee open a cash register, the suspect took an unknown amount of cash and left the area on foot," a lieutenant wrote to an online blotter entry.

According to police, a search of the area was conducted, however, the suspect was not located.

Officials believe the incident to be isolated, with no current threat to the public.
Police arrested a Colorado Springs woman on Wednesday in connection with a stabbing incident that took place around the 00 Block of East Las Vegas Street on Oct. 23.

Elizabeth Marie Null, 40, has been charged with first degree assault, according to the Colorado Springs Police Department.

Police responded to the stabbing on Monday, transporting one female victim to the hospital. A description of the suspect was recognized as Null from a previous interaction by officers with the Homeless Outreach Team (HOT), who provided a photo to other officers.

An arrest warrant was issued for Null based on "additional information," a CSPD lieutenant wrote in an online blotter entry.

On Wednesday, HOT officers located and arrested Null without incident at her tent near Interstate 25 and the Martin Luther King Jr. Bypass.

The investigation of this incident is ongoing.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis on Thursday ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff statewide to honor the victims of a mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine.

Polis' order was in accordance with President Joe Biden's proclamation earlier in the day ordering all American flags to be flown at half-staff at public buildings across the country and its territories, and at embassies, military outposts and naval vessels and stations abroad.

Maine Gov. Janet Mills said at least 18 people were killed and 13 more were injured in the mass shooting at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston Wednesday night.

The order remains in effect through sunset on Oct. 30.
Maine State Police are holding a press conference on Thursday morning after two mass shootings that occurred in Lewiston, Maine Wednesday night.

At least 16 people dead, with Lewiston City Councilor Robert McCarthy stating on CNN that the number could be as high as 22. Dozens of people are believed to be injured in the two shootings, as well. The shootings occurred at two locations: Sparetime Recreation, a bowling alley on Mollison Way, and Schemengees Bar & Grille Restaurant on Lincoln Street.

NEW HOME SALES INCREASE IN SEPTEMBER TO HIGHEST RATE IN 19 MONTHS

Robert Card, 40, believed to be stationed at the Army Reserve base in Saco, Maine, is the suspect. He is still at large, with Maine State Police installing shelter-in-place orders for Lewiston, Auburn, Bowdoin, and Lisbon.

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A state police bulletin said Card had recently reported hearing voices that told him to "shoot up" the National Guard base in Saco.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Wednesday's shooting is likely the deadliest shooting in Maine's history, per the Portland Press Herald.

The press conference will begin at 10:30 a.m. EDT on Thursday.

Original Location: WATCH LIVE: Maine State Police hold press conference following mass shooting
By Omar Younis

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Colleen Megee moved into an RV with her boyfriend, Alexander Spector, and their dog, Mimo, two years ago. Like thousands of other unhoused people in Los Angeles, they feel living in a vehicle is safer than sleeping in a tent or on the street.

"In 2011, I became homeless because I couldn't afford my rent and I ended up living in tents or bushes or whatever. Then, I got into an RV and that's more like a home kind of thing. At least there is shelter," said the 37-year-old, whose mobile home is one of several hundred parked on Burbank's Forest Lawn Drive across from Warner Bros Studios.

"It's home now but I would like to be in an apartment," she said.

Nearly a third of Californians are living in or near poverty, with poverty in Los Angeles County the highest in the state, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.

Los Angeles has some of the highest housing costs in the country with its stock of affordable housing unable to meet demand.

The thousands of parked vehicles have disgruntled neighbors, however, according to Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park.

We're outside of one of our local schools, and you can see there are RVs. They have been parked here without moving for years, said Park, from the popular Venice neighborhood. Their belongings are impeding the sidewalks and, you know, families with children need to be able to access this area to get to school."

She called the scale of the problem immense. Estimates vary on how many people are living in vehicles but most agree the figure is at least several thousand.

A motion introduced by Park to regulate the sale and leasing of RVs and vans that are used for housing was approved unanimously by the Los Angeles City Council on Aug. 30. Now, Los Angeles County is following her lead, considering similar restrictions.

The Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority estimates over 75,000 people were unhoused this year in Los Angeles County, 46,000 of which are within the City of Los Angeles.

(Reporting by Omar Younis; Writing by Christina Anagnostopoulos; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
(Reuters) - A senior Ukrainian official said on Thursday the election of Mike Johnson, a U.S. Republican who has been an opponent to Ukraine aid, as speaker of the House of Representatives would not affect Washington's vital assistance for Kyiv.

Johnson, who was named House speaker on Wednesday, told reporters he supported further aid to Ukraine "with conditions", with accountability and clear objectives from the White House.

Oleksiy Danilov, secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council, said Johnson's election was good for Ukraine because it ended a three-week leadership vacuum in the House.

"I'm more than sure that cooperation will continue, assistance will continue," Danilov said in televised comments.

"The statement made by the speaker that they would like to check the assistance they provide  this is a completely natural thing. We're happy to provide all information about the aid, there are no secrets."

Ukraine relies heavily on support from its partners - both militarily and economically. Recent calls from within the United States to review or cut assistance to Kyiv have raised concerns about the future of the aid.

U.S. President Joe Biden asked Congress last week to pass a $106 billion funding package which included billions of dollars in assistance for Ukraine.

(Reporting by Yuliia Dysa; editing by Tom Balmforth and Deborah Kyvrikosaios)
JLR, makers of modern luxury vehicles, on Thrusday confirmed that its state-of-the-art plant in Nitra, Slovakia, will produce electric vehicles as part of the companys Reimagine Strategy that will see nine new electric vehicles launched by 2030.

Announcing the news on the Slovakian plants 5th anniversary, Executive Director of Industrial Operations Barbara Bergmeier hailed the incredible success of the plant and its people, which have produced over 365,000 Defender and Discovery vehicles to date, since production commenced in October 2018.

Bergmeier said: I am thrilled to announce that our fantastic state-of-the-art plant in Nitra will be producing electric vehicles this decade as part of our electrification strategy. This is a vote of confidence in the plants 5,000 skilled and dedicated people and demonstrates the key role Nitra plays in our current successful performance. I also want to thank our suppliers have followed us to collocate at Nitra and supported our increases in production.

JLR Nitra Operations Director Guillermo Mancholas said: Today is a real milestone for our plant, which has gone from strength to strength since the lines started work five years ago. We took changes, such adding the Defender 130 and moving from two to three shifts increasing production from 2,000 to 3,000 cars a week, in our stride. The news that we will be delivering electric vehicle production is confirmation of our key role in the Reimagine Strategy.

JLR invested 1.3 billion to launch Nitra, a highly digitised and automated plant that was the first in Europe to use Kukas Pulse carrier system  30% faster transfer times than conventional systems. Since then, the luxury car maker has invested a further 60m in new technology, land, buildings and software.

Built exclusively at Nitra, the new Defender has been a particular financial success story for the company. As JLRs bestselling model for last two financial years, Defender is generating 10 times the revenue that the Classic Defender was in 2015.

Looking forward, JLR is investing 15 billion over five years to transform its vehicles to electric and become a carbon net zero by 2039. This includes electrifying its luxury Range Rover, Defender, Jaguar and Discovery brands, and launching nine pure electric models by 2030.

Halewood will become JLRs first all-electric production facility, Solihull will produce electric Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Jaguar models, the Engine Manufacturing Centre in Wolverhampton will build Electric Drive Units (EDUs) and Castle Bromwich will be repurposed to build body panels for EVs. Meanwhile JLR has this week opened a new 250 million Future Energy Lab in Whitley, Coventry, UK, to develop Electric Drive Units for the company in house. - TradeArabia News Service
By David Shepardson

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The White House is asking Congress for $6 billion for a government broadband internet subsidy program used by 21 million American households that is set to run out of money next year.

The Biden administration also wants $3.1 billion to further fund removal of equipment made by Chinese telecoms giants Huawei and ZTE from U.S. telecom networks.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) previously said removing the equipment, which it says poses national security risks, would cost $4.98 billion. Congress has only approved $1.9 billion. In 2019, Congress told the FCC to require U.S. telecoms carriers that receive federal subsidies to purge their networks of Chinese telecoms equipment.

Congress previously allocated $17 billion to help lower-income families and people impacted by COVID-19 to gain internet access through a $30 per month voucher to use toward paying for internet service.

The White House says the program known as the Affordable Connectivity Program, helps current users save over $500 million per month on their internet bills. The $6 billion in additional government funding would extend the program through December 2024.

"Congress should act swiftly to fund the Affordable Connectivity Program and prevent more than 21 million households from losing access to affordable, high-speed internet," said White House National Economic Council director Lael Brainard.

Internet service providers say there are about 27 million additional U.S. households that are eligible but are not yet enrolled.

Verizon, Comcast and AT&T have all called for Congress to extend the program that could run out of money by March.

(Reporting by David Shepardson; Editing by Cynthia Osterman)
President Joe Biden touted the tentative agreement reached between Ford Motor Company and the United Auto Workers Wednesday as a "testament" to the power of collective bargaining.

Biden joined UAW workers on the picket line in Detroit in September, the first time a sitting U.S. president had picketed with union members.

BIDEN'S OFFSHORE WIND GOAL UNDER 'EXISTENTIAL' THREAT

"I applaud the UAW and Ford for coming together after a hard fought, good faith negotiation and reaching a historic tentative agreement tonight," Biden wrote in a statement. "This tentative agreement provides a record raise to auto workers who have sacrificed so much to ensure our iconic Big Three companies can still lead the world in quality and innovation."

The president claimed that the new deal, which includes a 25% increase to base wages through April 2028, was "critical to building an economy from the middle out and bottom up," the core thrust of his "Bidenomics" platform.

"I've always believed the middle class built America and unions built the middle class. That is especially the case for UAW workers who built an iconic American industry," he continued. "It's showing how collective bargaining works by providing workers a seat at the table and the opportunity to improve their lives while contributing fully to their employer's success. This tentative agreement is a testament to the power of employers and employees coming together to work out their differences at the bargaining table in a manner that helps businesses succeed while helping workers secure pay and benefits they can raise a family on and retire with dignity and respect."

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UAW endorsed Biden's 2020 presidential campaign but has yet to formally back a candidate heading into the 2024 general election cycle.

Former President Donald Trump won Michigan in the 2016 general election and greatly increased his public outreach to UAW members throughout the more than 40-day strike.

Original Location: Biden celebrates 'historic' UAW-Ford labor agreement

Washington Examiner Videos
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has arranged for a multitude of weapons and supplies to be delivered to Israel in its war against the Hamas terrorist group, continuing his support for the country as he runs his 2024 U.S. presidential election campaign.

The supplies sent to Israel by DeSantis include drones, body armor, helmets, and health supplies, all of which are being delivered by cargo planes. Florida is also working through private groups to give both weapons and ammunition to Israel, which was requested by Israel's consul general in Miami, according to Jeremy Redfern, a spokesman for the governor's office.

WHY TRUMP'S FULTON COUNTY CO-DEFENDANTS KEEP TAKING PLEA AGREEMENTS

The move by DeSantis comes as he is running for president in the 2024 elections, running against other candidates in the Republican primary, including former President Donald Trump, business entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley, and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC).

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which gained new attention after the terrorist group attacked Israel on Oct. 7, leaving hundreds dead and thousands held hostage, is likely to be a major talking point among candidates in the 2024 election.

Beyond providing supplies to Israel, DeSantis has worked to bring U.S. citizens back to the United States from Israel, revealing on social media that the state's Israel Rescue Operation has brought home almost 700 people so far. The Florida governor also stated that two planes carrying 85 pallets of supplies had arrived in Israel.

DeSantis has also been working to fight companies and events that oppose Israel, stating on Thursday that the financial service company Morningstar was placed on Florida's List of Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel. DeSantis added that companies that partake in discriminating against Israel "will be held accountable."

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CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

DeSantis's support for Israel comes as the House of Representatives just passed a resolution affirming its support for Israel fighting against Hamas. It was the first piece of legislation the House passed in over three weeks after finding its new speaker, Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA).

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Wednesday that Israel is "getting prepared" for the ground invasion but did not specify when such an invasion would happen. He also stated that all members of Hamas are "dead men walking."

Original Location: DeSantis arranges weapons to be sent to Israel amid 2024 campaign

Washington Examiner Videos
Every household in Alaska that is eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will receive their payments in seven days.

Alaska is one of four states that send payments to every SNAP-participating household, regardless of case number or last name, on the first of the month. The other states that send out all payments on the first of the month are North Dakota, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

HOUSE ELECTS MIKE JOHNSON AS SPEAKER AFTER THREE WEEKS AT AN IMPASSE

The cost-of-living adjustments for fiscal 2024 increased SNAP benefit amounts for all states and territories. A list of amounts by state can be found here.

Around 92,100 people, or 12% of the population, receive food stamps in Alaska, and the average payment per Alaskan household member per month is $271.

In Alaska, households are split into three regions: Rural I, Rural II, and Urban. Each region produces a different maximum monthly payment.

In the "Rural I" region, the maximum payment for a household of one is $477. A household of four can receive up to $1,591, and a household of eight can receive up to $2,865. For each additional person, a maximum of $368 is added.

For "Rural II" households, maximum payments are $581 for one, $1,937 for four, and $3,487 for eight, with $436 added for each additional member.

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CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Eligible households living in the "Urban" region will receive a maximum payment of $374 for a household of one, $1,248 for a household of four, and $2,246 for a household of eight. After eight, the program adds a maximum of $281 for each additional member.

SNAP benefits are loaded onto an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card each month. In Alaska, the EBT card is called the Alaska Quest Card. Households can purchase groceries, snacks, and seeds or plants with food stamps, but they cannot buy alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, live animals, prepared foods, or any nonfood household items.

Original Location: Food stamps: November SNAP payment worth up to $3,487 to arrive in Alaska in seven days

Washington Examiner Videos
Hunter Biden's strategy for fighting felony gun charges may need to change significantly based on a key decision from the federal judge overseeing it.

Judge Maryellen Noreika's decision last week to throw out the diversion agreement that special counsel David Weiss initially offered Hunter Biden has left the president's son with fewer options for fighting the three felony charges he faces for allegedly lying on paperwork to purchase a gun in 2018.

HOUSE ELECTS MIKE JOHNSON AS SPEAKER AFTER THREE WEEKS AT AN IMPASSE

After spending weeks arguing the court should still consider the diversion agreement binding, lawyers for President Joe Biden's son may now have to confront the substance of the charges facing Hunter Biden.

"The defense has largely put it all on black' in seeking to enforce the earlier agreement," Jonathan Turley, a constitutional law professor at George Washington University, told the Washington Examiner. "However, that agreement was not fully executed when the plea overall collapsed."

"At the time, Biden counsel told the Justice Department to just rip it up,'" Turley added, referring to an intense exchange between Hunter Biden's lawyers and prosecutors in court on July 26. "Those words have come back to haunt them."

Weiss's team filed the diversion agreement for the gun charge in June alongside a plea deal concerning misdemeanor tax charges. When Noreika's questions about immunity provisions caused Hunter Biden to switch his plea to not guilty, the tax-related plea deal came off the table, but the fate of the diversion agreement remained unclear until last week.

Hunter Biden's team had begun preparing a motion to dismiss the gun charges based on the belief that the agreement would survive.

"Mr. Biden maintains that the stand alone,' bilateral' ... Diversion Agreement  that both parties signed remains in force, and he will seek to dismiss the Indictment against him pursuant to the immunity provisions of that Agreement," Abbe Lowell, Hunter Biden's lead defense attorney, wrote in an Oct. 5 court filing.

Now, Hunter Biden's lawyers may need to devise an entirely new strategy.

They have already begun to preview one argument that could prove politically awkward for Joe Biden: that the gun law under which Weiss charged Hunter Biden is unconstitutional.

President Joe Biden's son Hunter Biden arrives for a court appearance in Wilmington, Delaware, on Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023. Matt Rourke/AP

"This would be embarrassing for at least two reasons," Andrew McCarthy, a former federal prosecutor, told the Washington Examiner. "First, Joe Biden championed the law under which Hunter has been charged. Second, if it weren't for Weiss's inexcusable delay in charging Hunter, there would be no Second Amendment defense. The Supreme Court's Bruen case was not decided until four years after Hunter's gun offense."

McCarthy was referring to the Supreme Court's decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association Inc v. Bruen, a 2022 case that provided a new legal framework for evaluating gun laws. The Bruen decision forces courts to weigh whether firearm restrictions fit into the "historical tradition" of Second Amendment rights.

Noreika, the judge overseeing Hunter Biden's case, has already signaled sympathy toward legal challenges brought after Bruen. She put a partial stop to Delaware's laws banning so-called ghost guns last year, noting the restrictions on owning such firearms could violate people's Second Amendment rights.

Lowell told the Washington Examiner last month that he plans to argue the restriction on gun ownership for drug users is unconstitutional.

Hunter Biden is not only charged with illegal possession of a gun but also faces false statement charges for allegedly lying about his substance abuse at the time he purchased the gun in October 2018.

While Hunter Biden's attorneys have suggested they plan to argue their client was sober at that point, the public record will make that claim difficult to demonstrate.

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For example, Hunter Biden wrote in his memoir, Beautiful Things, that he was struggling with addiction throughout late 2018 and early 2019.

"I had returned [to the East Coast] that fall of 2018, after my most recent relapse in California, with the hope of getting clean through a new therapy and reconciling with Hallie [Biden]. Neither happened," Hunter Biden wrote.

The substance abuse continued into the spring of the following year, according to the book.

"By the time my plane touched down in Los Angeles in March 2019, I had no plan beyond the moment-to-moment demands of the crack pipe," Hunter Biden wrote.

Between the fall of 2018 and the spring of 2019, Hunter Biden spent time in Delaware, where the gun purchase occurred.

At the time he possessed the gun, he was still in a romantic relationship with his brother's widow, and she tossed the firearm into a dumpster after discovering it in his truck. The incident caught the attention of Delaware police, who questioned both Hunter and Hallie Biden, as well as the FBI.

Hunter Biden noted in the book that his "inability to stay sober" led to the collapse of his relationship with Hallie Biden in the fall of 2018.

Hunter Biden raged at Hallie Biden in the hours after she discarded his gun on Oct. 23, 2018, according to text messages uncovered last year by the Washington Examiner. In the heated exchange, Hallie Biden begged him to check into a rehab center, and Hunter Biden blamed her for blocking his path to sobriety.

In other words, significant evidence exists to suggest Hunter Biden was not clean when he bought and kept the gun, complicating the defense strategy for his lawyers.

"I don't think Hunter has a factual defense to the gun charges," McCarthy said. "In fact, if he went to trial, that would be more embarrassing. It would come out, for example, that there were probably two guns involved, not merely the one that was charged."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

McCarthy cited photographs discovered on Hunter Biden's abandoned laptop that appear to show the president's son brandishing a different kind of gun than the one he faces charges for purchasing.

What's more, the reported involvement of Secret Service agents who attempted to confiscate Hunter Biden's purchase paperwork from the Delaware gun shop on the same day Hallie Biden threw the gun into the dumpster could surface at trial and cause political headaches for Joe Biden, McCarthy noted.

Original Location: Hunter Biden legal team may need to overhaul defense strategy in gun case

Washington Examiner Videos
Former President Donald Trump's "targeting [of] a known witness" in his federal 2020 election interference case demonstrates why the gag order against him must be reinstated, special counsel Jack Smith argued in a late Wednesday night court filing.

Smith argued that while the 2024 GOP front-runner is within his First Amendment rights to make his claims of innocence, allege the prosecution is politically motivated, and criticize the Justice Department and President Joe Biden, there is a "need to safeguard the integrity of the proceedings, including by protecting certain trial participants from intimidation, harassment, and threats."

BIDEN AND TRUMP COURT INDEPENDENT VOTERS AMID THIRD-PARTY THREAT

"What the defendant may not do is publicly target certain trial participants in order to 'vilify and implicitly encourage violence against public servants' or to 'launch a pretrial smear campaign against . . . foreseeable witnesses,' Smith wrote, adding that Trump's recent social media posts "to influence and intimidate" were "harmful."

Smith's court filing was expected after a series of events transpired within the past week. First, U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan granted Trump a temporary hold on his gag order while she listened to a motion from Trump's lawyers to suspend it fully while they appeal.

Trump wasted little time in taking advantage of that reprieve, but he went way too far, according to Smith, by attacking a possible witness in the case, Mark Meadows, Trump's final chief of staff and confidante during and after the 2020 election.

Trump wrote on Truth Social that he wouldn't think Meadows "would lie" to get immunity ahead of testifying before a federal grand jury this year in the case against Trump, which ABC News reported Meadows was granted.

In the same post, Trump ranted that some people "being hounded like a dog for three years," told they'll be imprisoned for life, and more would make that deal. "...but they are weaklings and cowards... I don't think that Mark Meadows is one of them, but who really knows?" the former president added.

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Smith has urged Chutkan to reimpose the gag order in light of Trump's recent comments and what they could mean for the case against him, saying, "...without the Court's Order there is an immediate risk that [the witnesses'] testimony could be influenced or deterred by the defendant's documented pattern of targeting."

Just this week, Trump's lawyers filed three motions to throw out the election interference case against him. Trump has denied any wrongdoing in the case charging him with illegally scheming to undo his 2020 election defeat to Biden.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

The Justice Department charged Trump this summer with four criminal counts related to his alleged attempts to subvert the 2020 election, which culminated with the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol by a mob of his supporters.

The former president will stand trial in Washington on March 4, 2024, one day before Super Tuesday. He is also facing three other criminal cases. In Florida, he faces a federal indictment over his handling of classified documents. In New York, he faces charges stemming from alleged hush-money payments made during the 2016 election. And he will stand trial in Fulton County, Georgia, for efforts to overturn the 2020 election in the Peach State.

Original Location: Jack Smith urges judge to reinstate gag order on Trump after 'harmful' comments

Washington Examiner Videos
Rep. Jamaal Bowman (D-NY) surrendered to police on Thursday morning after the Washington, D.C., attorney general charged him with one count of falsely pulling a fire alarm in a House office building.

Footage taken by Fox News showed Bowman turning himself in to officers early on Thursday after he was charged with violating the D.C. code on Wednesday. On Sept. 30, Bowman pulled the fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building ahead of a vote to avoid a government shutdown. He said he was in a rush and thought pulling the alarm would open the door.

BIDEN AND TRUMP COURT INDEPENDENT VOTERS AMID THIRD-PARTY THREAT

"I admitted that from the very beginning," Bowman said of pulling the alarm. "Gotta take responsibility for it. We have a deal in place, so looking forward to paying the fine, and three months later it being dismissed, and hopefully, continuing to do work in my district."

"Due to the defendant's actions, the Cannon House Office Building was evacuated for approximately 1 1/2 hours," the filing read.

"When the defendant pulled the emergency fire alarm in the Cannon House Office Building, located at 25 Independence Avenue, SE in the District of Columbia at approximately 12:04 pm on September 30, 2023, there was no fire at that location," the court filing continued. "Therefore, based upon the evidence, this affiant has probable cause to believe that the defendant willfully or knowingly gave a false fire alarm within the District of Columbia, in violation of D.C. Code 22-1319(a)."

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Bowman had thanked D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb for a "quick resolution" and the Capitol Police General Counsel's office for agreeing that "I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings."

"I think we all know that Republicans will attempt to use this to distract everyone from their mess, but I look forward to putting this behind me and to continue working hard to deliver for New Yorkers," he said in a statement.

Original Location: Jamaal Bowman surrenders to police on DC misdemeanor charge for pulling House fire alarm

Washington Examiner Videos
National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said there is "no question" Iran is being complicit in the war between Israel and the Hamas terrorist group.

Kirby's Thursday morning statement comes after Iran has been the subject of scrutiny over its involvement in Middle East conflicts, with Iran believed to have supported the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks in Israel. Iran also supports Hezbollah on Israel's northern border with Lebanon.

NEWSOM DEFENDS FAILURE TO ADDRESS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES WITH CHINA'S XI JINPING

"There's no question, Mika, that Iran has complicity here across the board," Kirby told Morning Joe co-host Mika Brzezinski. "They've been supporting groups like Hamas and Hezbollah for years. They're supporting these militia groups in Iraq and Syria that have attacked our troops in recent days, and that's at the direction and facilitation of the IRGC."

Kirby also said that the Biden administration has sent a "strong signal to everybody in the region" and that it does not want to see further escalation. He added that the United States has "significant national security interest" at stake right now and that it is taking its responsibilities on national security "seriously."

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Amid the conflict in Israel, the U.S. State Department has encouraged U.S. citizens in Lebanon to leave "as soon as possible." The department has also raised the travel advisory to Level 4 on Tuesday, which means U.S. civilians should not travel there.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Wednesday that a ground invasion of Gaza is coming soon, warning that "all of Hamas members are dead men walking." An Israel Defense Forces limited ground raid into Gaza was announced early Thursday morning ahead of the invasion.

Original Location: John Kirby: No question Iran has complicity across the board

Washington Examiner Videos
Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) won the election for speaker of the House on Wednesday.

The next question is: Did conservatives?

BIDEN AND TRUMP COURT INDEPENDENT VOTERS AMID THIRD-PARTY THREAT

When eight Republicans joined with House Democrats in throwing out former Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), most of them justified their move, which was not popular in the wider GOP conference and has received mixed reviews at best in polling of rank-and-file Republican voters, by saying a more conservative speaker was possible.

On paper, Johnson certainly fits the bill. His 2022 Conservative Political Action Conference (formerly American Conservative Union) rating was 91%. His lifetime rating over six years is 91.87%.

That's better than McCarthy's ratings of 82% and 84.08%, respectively, or House Majority Leader Steve Scalise's (R-LA) 2022 rating of 82%, though only a touch better than his lifetime score of 91.43%. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN) was just 73% last year and 79.63% over his congressional career.

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) was the only candidate for speaker who was rated as being more conservative than Johnson, with 100% scores for last year and his entire 16-year stint in Congress.

But Jordan never got particularly close to being speaker, receiving fewer votes on the floor than House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) each time. By the third ballot, Jordan had dipped below 200 votes and had 25 Republicans declining to support him. The conference dumped him as the nominee shortly thereafter.

One reason House Republicans elected McCarthy in the first place was that no one associated with the Freedom Caucus had the votes to become speaker. Jordan was widely considered the most plausible member of that faction for the job. That experiment has now been tried and ended poorly.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) speaks during a news conference at the Capitol in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023. Jose Luis Magana/AP

The theory was that McCarthy could be held to certain commitments in exchange for conservative holdouts finally relenting to his election on the 15th ballot, including a low threshold for the motion to vacate, essentially making himself easy to fire.

Many House conservatives did not like McCarthy's approach to the debt ceiling or a temporary government funding bill to avert a shutdown. A much smaller number was ready to oust him over it immediately. So fire him they did.

"We told you how to use the power of the purse: individual, single-subject spending bills that would allow us to have specific review, programmatic analysis, and that would allow us to zero out the salaries of the bureaucrats who have broken bad, targeted President Trump, or cut sweetheart deals for Hunter Biden," Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-FL), an anti-McCarthy ringleader, said on the House floor last month.

Johnson isn't a Freedom Caucus member either, though the group is secretive about its membership. But the new speaker is at least Freedom Caucus adjacent. He has a deep reservoir of goodwill across the conference. He will surely need to draw upon it as the next government shutdown deadline nears and some judge him by the standards Gaetz laid out for McCarthy.

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Before becoming speaker, Newt Gingrich led a conservative revolt against a bipartisan tax increase signed into law by then-President George H.W. Bush. It didn't take long before Gingrich was the target of conservative revolts himself once he took the gavel in 1995, though his speakership ultimately ended for other reasons.

Under House Speaker Dennis Hastert, Republicans formalized a conservative-backed rule bearing his name that requires the "majority of the majority" to support legislation that made it to the floor. By the end of his tenure, intraparty fights over federal spending began to intensify. Republicans lost control of the House in 2006.

GOP Speakers John Boehner and Paul Ryan clashed with the new Freedom Caucus and its allies. Over time, a perceived combativeness and a willingness to flout conventions in pursuit of conservative objectives became as important as policy or ideological differences.

McCarthy lasted just nine months and could only be replaced after House Republicans pondered their fourth option.

Democrats have already pointed out that Johnson was closer to former President Donald Trump, backing him on 2020 election certification. Spending will inevitably be the first test, however.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Congressional conservatives have long argued that Republican leaders don't drive a hard enough bargain with the Democrats on spending, refusing to use the leverage they believe is offered by shutdowns and the federal debt limit.

We'll soon find out whether Johnson can be a different story with a different ending.

Original Location: Mike Johnson won the House speaker fight. What about conservatives?

Washington Examiner Videos
The Supreme Court's decision to hear a case involving free speech, government agencies, and social media could have monumental implications for content moderation.

The court said last Friday that it would consider the merits of Murthy v. Missouri (formerly known as Missouri v. Biden), a case initially brought by the Republican attorneys general of Missouri and Louisiana. The two state attorneys general contended that Biden administration officials violated the First Amendment by colluding with Meta, Twitter (now known as X), and YouTube to engage in censorship, including posts about COVID-19 and the Hunter Biden laptop story. A preliminary injunction from the Southern District of Louisiana froze communications between Big Tech companies and the government, although the Supreme Court stayed the injunction while it considered the arguments.

WHO WARNS OF ENDEMIC DENGUE IN EUROPE AND US DUE TO CLIMATE CHANGE

Now the Supreme Court is committed, sometime this term, to hearing oral arguments regarding whether government communications with social media led to censorship and whether the breadth and terms of the district court's order were proper.

A Supreme Court decision in the case could set a major precedent concerning social media. Under existing jurisprudence, federal agencies are barred from forcing others to restrict speech by the First Amendment. But the legal questions around how much input can a federal agency over a social platform like Facebook or X are less clear.

Murthy is a "really important case at this moment because we're trying to balance the level of input government can have in the content moderation policies and practices of privately owned companies," Kevin Goldberg, First Amendment specialist at the Freedom Forum, told the Washington Examiner. Freedom Forum is a nonpartisan group promoting free speech.

Companies have a right to be free from undue influence from government agencies, Goldberg said. At the same time, private companies and federal agencies will inevitably regularly speak with one another about matters, which means that federal agencies may influence the decisions made by leaders in the companies. What remains gray is what sorts of speech would be considered coercive or forcing the opinions of the federal agency upon the company.

This coercion is considered "jawboning," a practice in which a government employee encourages, coerces, or compels another party to comply with a request without using their respective legislative, judicial, or regulatory powers. Jawboning is a broad term used to describe a multitude of practices. It could describe reminders to a private entity about the state of the law, or it could be explicit threats stating that the speaker will take legal action if a specific book or piece of media isn't censored.

"The First Amendment has long been understood to prohibit the government from coercing bookstores and other speech intermediaries to suppress speech, but the Supreme Court hasn't had to apply this rule in the context of social media," Jameel Jeffers, the executive director of the Knight First Amendment Institute, said in a statement. "Even outside that context, it's said very little about how lower courts should distinguish permissible persuasion from unconstitutional coercion."

One case that could offer insight into how the Supreme Court will rule is Bantam Books v. Sullivan, University of Chicago law professor Genevieve Lakier argued in a blog post. The 1963 case involved four book publishers that challenged the Rhode Island Commission over its habits of censoring reportedly "obscene speech" in privately owned bookshops. The court ruled that informal communications between government entities and private speech intermediaries like bookstores are fine as long as they are "purely advisory" and not "coercive in purport." The Supreme Court would have to determine if those terms also apply to communications with social media companies.

Louisiana-based U.S. District Judge Terry Doughty issued the initial order in July limiting the federal government's communications with social media companies after the plaintiffs provided sufficient evidence of a "massive effort" from the White House and federal agencies to "suppress speech based on its content." The subsequent 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruling by a three-judge panel on Sept. 11 agreed with the decision. However, it narrowed the number of government-affiliated entities affected by the decision. The Supreme Court decided to block the order on Friday and allow the agencies to communicate while it considered the legitimacy of the decision.

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The fact that the trial court and the appeals court appeared to find the Biden administration guilty of "unlawfully coercing Big Tech" should be "shocking," according to Dan Schneider, vice president of Free Speech America, a conservative organization.

"In no way does [Murthy] let Big Tech out of the noose," Schneider told the Washington Examiner. It merely delays the inevitable regulatory actions necessary, such as the regulations proposed by Congress to change whether or not Big Tech can be held accountable for limiting political speech, Schneider argued.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Legal experts anticipate the conservative majority on the court to uphold the initial order restricting jawboning, particularly in light of Alito's dissent regarding the temporary blocking of the lawsuit. Alito argued in his dissent that the high court erred in lifting the limitations on Biden administration officials' communications with social media platforms because the restrictions only applied to coercive speech.

The court is expected to hear arguments for Murthy this term, ending in June. It will be the third social media-related case accepted this term. The court will hear oral arguments next week over two issues regarding whether public officials can block critics on social media. It will also hear NetChoice v. Moody, a case that will determine whether a state can penalize a social media platform for its content moderation decisions.

Original Location: Murthy v. Missouri could have major ramifications for Big Tech and free speech

Washington Examiner Videos
Eni celebrated the sail away of the Tango Floating Liquefied Natural Gas (FLNG) and Excalibur Floating Storage Unit (FSU) vessels from Dubai, UAE to the shores of the Republic of the Congo.

It took place on October 21, in the presence of Congos Minister of Hydrocrbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua and Maixent Raoul Ominga, Managing Director of the Societe nationale des petroles du Congo - signals the imminent realisation of the Congo LNG project's first phase, slated to commence production in December 2023.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) commends both the Government of Congo and Eni for this achievement.

The sail away of the Tango FLNG unit and the Excalibur FSU facility marks a pivotal moment in Africa's energy landscape. It signifies the Republic of the Congo's bold stride towards becoming a major LNG producer, aligning perfectly with the AEC's vision for a gas-driven economy on the continent. Natural gas is undeniably the fuel of the future in Africa, and endeavors such as this are integral in propelling us towards a sustainable and prosperous energy future, stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

The Tango FLNG boasts a liquefaction capacity of approximately one billion cubic meters per annum of gas (bcm) and will be anchored just 3km offshore alongside the Excalibur FSU vessel upon their arrival in Congo.

The project capitalises on Marine XII gas resources and utilises existing production facilities in a phased approach that aims to achieve a gas liquefaction capacity of around 4.5 bcm at plateau.

According to Eni, a second FLNG vessel is currently under construction and is slated for first-production by 2025.

Coupled with a commendable commitment to zero routine gas flaring, this project is poised to significantly advance gas production in the country, serving as a catalyst for long-term and sustainable growth.

Additionally, this accomplishment holds significance for the Republic of the Congo as it positions the country to emerge as a formidable player in the global LNG market.

The project not only addresses the country's growing energy demands but also presents a opportunity to tap into surplus gas resources through LNG production. As a result, the Republic of the Congo is set to join the ranks of global of LNG exporters in record time.--OGN/ TradeArabia News Service
Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) expressed his desire to reissue sanctions on Iran, such as those under former President Donald Trump.

Kennedy appeared on Kudlow Wednesday, slamming President Joe Biden's foreign policies toward Iran. In the senator's opinion, the current president is demonstrating weakness by his lack of actions against Iran amid a war between Israel and Hamas.

ECONOMIC GROWTH SURGED IN THIRD QUARTER TO 4.9% RATE DESPITE HIGH INTEREST RATES

"Iran keeps biting our hand. In the last couple weeks  you've mentioned it  they have attacked American assets 16 times. We've done nothing. And President Biden, in response, keeps giving them money," Kennedy said. "Unless you think there is an award for being stupid, you understand that peace through weakness never works with the people like the Ayatollah."

Kennedy went on to criticize Biden for not enforcing sanctions on Iran's oil, while the country produces about a million barrels a day. The Louisiana senator also disagreed with the six-billion-dollar prisoner swap.

"The Ayatollah  they hate Americans," Kennedy said of Iran's supreme leader. "He hates the Jewish people; he wants to kill all of us and drink our blood out of a boot. And you can't say: 'Well, we can sit down and reason.' They just respect strength."

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According to Kennedy, the president should stop sending all money to Iran.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

"I understand why [Biden's] acting as he is, I don't agree with him. He's  he's scared of Iran. He thinks that, well, we don't want this to escalate," Kennedy went on to say. "Well, the Iranians interpret that as weakness. Sometimes, you got to stand up for yourself."

Meanwhile, Kennedy has reintroduced a bill he first attempted in 2021 called the "No Dollars for Dictators Act." It would require congressional authorization for state sponsors of terrorism to receive drawing rights through the International Monetary Fund. In his press release announcing its introduction earlier this month, Kennedy cited China, Russia, and Iran as examples of countries that would face barriers to the IMF if the bill passed.

Original Location: Sen. John Kennedy blasts Biden for sending funds to Iran instead of sanctions

Washington Examiner Videos
Judge Arthur Engoron published an order defending a $10,000 sanction against Donald Trump after the former president violated the gag order barring public comments about his court staff.

Before trial testimony in Trump's civil fraud case began Thursday morning, Trump attorney Chris Kise asked Engoron to reconsider his fine against Trump from the day before. Engoron said he would review the video of Trump's comments to reporters that prompted the fine.

WHY TRUMP'S FULTON COUNTY CO-DEFENDANTS KEEP TAKING PLEA AGREEMENTS

Judge Arthur Engoron poses for a picture in his courtroom in New York. (Seth Wenig/AP)

When Engoron returned after lunch, he told the defense counsel that the fine stood, adding there was a "clear transition" between Trump's comments referring to Engoron's clerk and a subsequent comment about Michael Cohen, Engoron said.

Trump's legal team has said it plans to appeal the latest sanction against Trump. It has already appealed two other sets of sanctions against its client in the case so far.

The latest sanctions against Trump stemmed from his comments in the hallway of the Manhattan Supreme Court during a break in the trial Wednesday, while Cohen, his former attorney-turned-foe, was on the stand.

"This judge is a very partisan judge with a person who is very partisan sitting alongside him  perhaps even much more partisan than he is," Trump said. The judge found that Trump was not referring to Cohen in his comment and issued an order Thursday that further explained his reasoning.

"Using imprecise language as an excuse to create plausible ambiguity about whether defendant violated this Court's unequivocal gag order is not a defense; the subject of Donald Trump's public statement to the press was unmistakably clear," the judge wrote Thursday. "As the trier of fact, I find that Donald Trump was referring to my Principal Law Clerk, as such, he has intentionally violated the gag order."

Kise further defended his client during the trial on Thursday, even saying that if Trump had been talking about the clerk, he didn't name her and was making an observation about the trial's fairness, arguing that it should be protected under his First Amendment rights.

Still, Engoron was not buying Kise's continued explanation on Thursday.

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"Witnesses do not sit alongside' the judge. They sit in the witness box, separated from the judge by a low wooden barrier," Engoron wrote in the order, also noting that Trump's language was similar to his prior verbal attack against the same clerk who inspired the limited gag order in the first place.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Trump was not in the courtroom Thursday. He returned to Florida after he left the courthouse abruptly on Wednesday, in frustration over the judge's latest sanction.

Read Engoron's order about the $10,000 fine below:

Original Location: Trump's New York judge defends $10,000 fine for violation of 'unequivocal gag order'

Washington Examiner Videos
Rep. Dean Phillips (D-MN) may soon take the next step into the national spotlight after it was reported he will launch his Democratic primary challenge to President Joe Biden on Friday.

Phillips is expected to file for the New Hampshire primary on Friday, kicking off his 2024 campaign. While it is unlikely to succeed in a Democratic nomination, his bid for the White House could do some irreparable damage to Biden.

BIDEN AND TRUMP COURT INDEPENDENT VOTERS AMID THIRD-PARTY THREAT

Here's what to know about Phillips and how his 2024 campaign could affect Biden and Democrats.

Who is Dean Phillips?

Phillips, 54, is a third-term congressman from Minnesota's Minneapolis suburbs. He was elected in 2019 to serve the state's deep red 3rd Congressional District, becoming the first Democrat to win the seat since 1958.

He is the multimillionaire businessman behind Talenti Gelato. With a net worth of $77 million in 2018, Phillips is considered to be one of the wealthiest members of Congress  an asset for anyone hoping to run a presidential campaign.

Phillips is considered to be a centrist Democrat. He served on House Democratic leadership until Oct. 1, when he announced he would step down from his role as co-chair of the Democratic Policy and Communications Committee.

What led up to a possible run for president

Phillips gave many indications that he may soon be a presidential candidate. In leaving his leadership position at the beginning of the month, Phillips cited his reason as no longer being aligned with the House Democratic Caucus on presidential politics.

"My convictions relative to the 2024 presidential race are incongruent with the majority of my caucus, and I felt it appropriate to step aside from elected leadership," he said at the time.

Despite voting in support of Biden's position 100% of the time, according to FiveThirtyEight, Phillips has been agitating against the president for months. In August, he called on Democrats to put a candidate up to run against the president in 2024 following the appointment of a special counsel in the Hunter Biden investigations. However, he remains in the minority in calling for a Biden alternative.

Phillips has vocally opposed Biden's reelection decision, calling him out for "not passing the torch" and raising concerns about the president's age. At 80, he is the oldest president in U.S. history and would be 86 at the end of a second term.

What is Biden's reaction to Phillips's expected entry?

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While declining to comment on Phillips's possible entry into the Democratic primary, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Tuesday that the administration does "appreciate the congressman's almost 100% support of this president."

How could a Phillips campaign affect Biden?

Some Democrats have dismissed Phillips's primary challenge as "delusional," worried that the Minnesota Democrat's efforts could pull people away from Biden, who has polled as the most successful challenger to former President Donald Trump if he becomes the GOP nominee.

Other critics of Phillips say that he doesn't have the resources or the time to dedicate to the 2024 primary that is already seeing deadlines pass by.

"He's self-immolating," Larry Jacobs, director of the University of Minnesota's Center for the Study of Politics and Governance, told the Washington Examiner.

"He has no campaign organization and lacks the time [and money] to stand one up. Filing deadlines to get on the state ballots are approaching or past. He lacks the national following that would give this any chance. And he's squandering his standing in Congress and political circles."

University of New Hampshire political science professor Dante Scala told the Washington Examiner, "You can't beat an incumbent president with a member of the House of Representatives."

"If Phillips got in today, he would have three months until the primary  just building name ID is a formidable task," Scala added.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Phillips has already missed the deadline to appear in Nevada's primary. Instead, he will likely focus on the New Hampshire primary, which has become a contentious issue due to Democratic National Committee rules. The DNC replaced New Hampshire, historically the first-in-the-nation primary state for both parties, with South Carolina as the first primary in 2024. The committee made a subsequent decision that if any Democrat participates in the New Hampshire primary, they may not receive any delegates from the nominating convention.

For this reason, Biden's campaign announced on Tuesday that Biden would not be on the New Hampshire primary ballot for the 2024 election, drawing criticism from New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan.

Original Location: Who is Dean Phillips, the possible Democratic challenger to Joe Biden?

Washington Examiner Videos
By Henry Romero and Diego Ore

ACAPULCO, Mexico (Reuters) -Hurricane Otis claimed the lives of at least 27 people, Mexico's government said on Thursday after one of the most powerful storms to hit the country hammered the beach resort of Acapulco, causing damage seen running into billions of dollars.

Otis, which struck Mexico on Wednesday as a Category 5 storm, flooded streets, ripped roofs off homes and hotels, submerged cars and cut communications, road and air access, leaving a trail of wreckage across Acapulco, a city of nearly 900,000.

Four people are still missing, the government said.

"What Acapulco suffered was really disastrous," President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told a press conference in Mexico City tallying the damage from the storm, which ripped into southern Mexico with winds of 165 miles per hour (266 kph).

Otis, which intensified unexpectedly rapidly off the Pacific coast, was so powerful it tore large trees up by the roots, scattering debris all over Acapulco. It flooded hospitals, and hundreds of patients had to be evacuated to safer areas.

The government declared a state of emergency in the region, but has given scant details about how the 27 people died, or how many others were injured.

Erik Lozoya, a professional magician, said he endured "three hours of terror" with his wife and two baby daughters in an Acapulco hotel room as the hurricane smashed through the windows and swept through the building with a deafening intensity.

"It literally felt as though our ears were going to explode," said the 26-year-old Lozoya, who barricaded himself in a bathroom with his family and four others. "We saw mattresses, water tanks flying. The ceiling began to cave in."

The family left the bathroom, but the eighth-floor room soon began to flood, and Lozoya had to stand carrying his daughters with water up to his ankles for two hours because the wind was so strong they could not open the door to get out.

The hurricane peeled off sections of buildings in downtown Acapulco. Some Mexican media posted videos of looting in the city. Reuters could not immediately confirm their veracity.

The government has so far not estimated the cost of Otis, but Enki Research, which tracks tropical storms and models the cost of their damage, saw it "likely approaching $15 billion."

The people still missing are believed to be members of the navy, said Lopez Obrador, who went to Acapulco on Wednesday by road, changing his vehicle more than once as the storm caused stoppages, according to pictures published on social media.

One showed him sitting in a military jeep stuck in mud.

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On Thursday afternoon, the government said the air traffic control tower of Acapulco's international airport was up and running again and that an air bridge enabling tourists to reach Mexico City would be operating from Friday.

SHOCKING POWER

Mexican authorities said Otis was the most powerful storm to strike Mexico's Pacific coast, although Hurricane Patricia, which slammed into the resort of Puerto Vallarta eight years earlier, whipped up even higher wind speeds out at sea.

Nearly 8,400 members of Mexico's army, air force and national guard were deployed in and near Acapulco to assist in cleanup efforts, the defense ministry said.

The destruction wrought by Otis has added to concerns about the impact of climate change, which many scientists believe will lead to more frequent extreme weather events.

Acapulco is the biggest city in the southern state of Guerrero, one of the poorest in Mexico. The local economy depends heavily on tourism, and Otis caused extensive damage to some of the most famous hotels on the city's shoreline.

Calling the storm "totally devastating," Guerrero state Governor Evelyn Salgado said 80% of the city's hotels had been hit by the storm and that authorities were working to restore electricity and reactivate drinking water pumps.

School classes were canceled in Guerrero for a second day and opposition politicians criticized the government for a lack of preparedness.

Magician Lozoya said he and his family were not alerted by the hotel about the approach of the hurricane until about 10:30 p.m. on Tuesday, barely 1-1/2 hours before Otis came ashore.

Lopez Obrador had issued a warning about two hours earlier on social media about the impending arrival of Otis.

State power utility CFE had over 1,300 employees working to restore power it said on Wednesday evening, when some 300,000 people remained without electricity.

Telmex, the telecommunications firm controlled by the family of tycoon Carlos Slim, said it had restored its network in Acapulco by Thursday morning. Local cell phone service was gradually being restored, but remained patchy.

(Reporting by Diego Ore, Dave Graham, Brendan O'Boyle, Sarah Morland, Lizbeth Diaz and Kylie Madry; Editing by Miral Fahmy, Jonathan Oatis and Grant McCool)
LETTERS: Fear as a potent tool; look at who is funding this
the associated press Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson of Louisiana, center, speaks alongside a smiling U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Silt, right, after he was chosen as the GOPs latest nominee for House speaker at a Republican caucus meeting at the Capitol in Washington on Tuesday.
The three Republican members of Colorado's House delegation voted to hand U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson the speaker's gavel on Wednesday, ending a stalemate that left the chamber paralyzed for three weeks amid deep divisions within its GOP majority.
The Department of the Interior on Monday announced the three lower basin states on the Colorado River  California, Arizona and Nevada  have reached an agreement on cuts to their water allocations from the Colorado River that will last until 2026.
"Ah, ah, ah," an officer said, grabbing Aaron Hernandez's wrist and telling him to stop getting out of the car at a church parking lot in June 2019. A judge concluded the incidents the plaintiff cited to support his case were insufficient to demonstrate a policy of failure to train on the part of the city.
Air travellers continue to prioritise speed and convenience and are ever more embracing biometrics and off-airport processes to deliver it, says the 2023 Global Passenger Survey (GPS) of International Air Transport Association (IATA).

"Passengers have made it clear: they want to spend less time booking and move through the airport faster. And they are increasingly willing to use biometric data to complete more pre-departure tasks off airport to achieve this, said Nick Careen, IATAs Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.

Planning and booking

Passengers want convenience when they plan their travel and when choosing from where to depart. Their preference is to fly from an airport close to home, have all booking options and services available in one single place and pay with their preferred payment method.

Proximity to the airport was passengers main priority when choosing their departure point (71%). This was more important than ticket price (31%).

A small majority of passengers prefer to book directly with the airline (52%). Regardless of booking channel used however, they would like to have complete visibility into the fare offer including easy access to optional products and services.

Todays travellers expect the same online experience as they get from major online retailers. The Modern Airline Retailing programme responds to these needs. Whichever shopping channel passengers choose, airlines want to present them with all the options for even quicker and more convenient booking.

When Modern Airline Retailing is fully realised, travellers will be able to track their air travel purchases with a single order numbersimple and fast. It will also greatly simplify reaccommodating travellers in the event of a change or a disruption, said Muhammad Albakri, IATAs Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.

Payment

Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method (62%). Among seven different payment methods, the most popular was credit / debit card (73%), followed by digital wallet (18%) and bank transfer (18%).

At the same time, there are very wide regional variations in credit card usage. Credit / debit cards are most popular in Latin America (85%), Europe (81%) and North America (74%) with the lowest preference being in Africa (57%). Digital wallet penetration most popular in the Asia Pacific region, where 41% of respondents cited this as the preferred option.

The next highest market was Europe (15%) followed by Middle East (14%). Among the regions, direct bank transfer was the most preferred payment method in Africa (36%), followed by the Middle East (21%). IATA has developed IATA Pay, an alternative method for travellers to pay for air tickets purchased online by directly debiting their bank account.

Payment issues

Payment issues cited by respondents included the inability to use their preferred option or to pay in installments; others cited a tedious payment process and concerns over payment security. Furthermore, 25% of potential product/services sales during the customer journey could not be eventually completed because of payment issues.

Payment needs to be seen as part of the commercial offer and not just as a financial transaction at the end of the sale. Customers want to be able to use their preferred payment method with convenience and security. Each market is different and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. If a preferred payment method is not available or too complicated, the potential sale may be lost. Ensuring the customer can use their preferred payment method more often is a key part of the Modern Airline Retailing programme, said Albakri.

Travel facilitation

Complex visa requirements deter travellers who want a convenient, digital online visa process. Moreover, many are willing to share their immigration information for faster airport immigration procedures.

Some 36% of travellers said they have been discouraged from traveling to a particular destination because of the immigration requirements. Process complexity was highlighted as the main deterrent by 49% of travellers, 19% cited costs and 8% privacy concerns.

Where visas are required, 66% of travellers want to obtain a visa online prior to travel, 20% prefer to go to the consulate or embassy and 14% at the airport.

About 87% of travellers indicated they would share their immigration information to speed up the airport arrival process, representing an increase from the 83% reported in 2022.

"Time-consuming and complex visa requirements deter travellers and deprive destination economies of valuable tourist revenues. Time and again, we have seen that when countries remove visa requirements, economies prosper from rising visitor numbers. Beyond simplified visa procedures, travellers are prepared to share their immigration information if it results in faster and smoother airport processes. Taking advantage of traveller willingness to use online processes and share information in advance is always a win-win solution, said Careen.

Airport processes

At the airport, speed is of the essence. Passengers expect streamlined processes and minimal wait times. They're keen on using biometrics to expedite procedures, prefer to complete more processes off-site, and arrive at the airport ready to fly.

Passengers expect to move through the airport faster than ever. 74% stated that when traveling with only a carry-on bag, they anticipate going from the curb to the boarding gate in 30 minutes or less, an increase from 54% in 2022.

Passengers want to complete more processing elements off-airport. 45% of travellers identified immigration as their top pick for off-airport processing. This was up from 32% in 2022. Check-in was the second most popular pick at 33%, followed by baggage check-in (19%). And 91% of passengers are interested in a special program for trusted travellers (background checks) to expedite security screening.

Passengers want more flexibility and more control in the baggage process. 67% would be interested in home pick-up and delivery, 77% said they would be likely to check in a bag if they could tag it and check it in before they get to the airport and 87% would be willing to check in a bag if they could track it. Also, interest in self-tracking is growing: 57% of travellers have used or want to use electronic bag tags, up from 50% in 2022.

Biometric identification

Confidence in biometric identification is on the rise. In the last 12 months, 46% of passengers used biometrics at the airport, up from 34% in 2022. Furthermore, 75% of passengers prefer using biometric data over traditional passports and boarding passes. Of those who've used biometric identification during their travels, 46% reported an 85% satisfaction rate. While data protection remains a concern for half of the travellers, 40% would be more open to biometric solutions if they were confident that their personal information is secure  an increase from 33% in 2022.

Passengers want technology to work harder, so they spend less time being processed, standing in queues. And they are willing to use biometric data if it delivers this result. But we need cooperation across the value chain and with governments to make it happen with secure technology that is available today, said Careen.

IATAs One ID initiative is revolutionising airport processes using biometrics so passengers dont need to stand in queues on departure or on arrival. IATAs newly developed 'Digitalisation of Admissibility' standards are the latest advancement with a mechanism to enable passengers to digitally obtain all necessary pre-travel authorisations directly from governments before their trip. With their 'OK to Fly' status shared with the airline, travellers can bypass all on-airport document verifications and enjoy an expedited travel process.

We have the standards and technology to radically improve the international travel experience. But we can only move at the pace that governments allow within their regulations. Thats why a top priority in realising seamless One ID enabled travel is working with governments to demonstrate that border control can be more secure even while making passenger travel more convenient, said Careen.--TradeArabia News Service
As the investigation into Return to Nature Funeral Home and its owners Jon and Carie Hallford drags on, local funeral directors are confident that the combination of common practices and future changes can reinstill trust in the industry.

Lloyd Harwood, owner of Harwood Cremation and Funeral Services in Canon City, said since the story of the bodies in the Penrose funeral home broke Oct. 5, he's seen an uptick of customers expressing concern about the sanctity and safety of their loved ones' remains.

"I really do believe 99% of Colorado funeral homes operate in accordance with the rules and take great care of loved ones," Harwood said. "We explain the process step-by-step."

Stephen Tomsky, Teller County Coroner and Funeral Director at the Mountain Memorial Funeral Home, said that with having 40 years of experience in the standard operating procedures of cremation, he can see how the Hallfords seem to have taken advantage of the system.

Most funeral directors are good people  they want to do the right thing, they want to get people to their final resting place, Tomsky said. This instance (Penrose investigation) was not a matter of laws or education. This was a bad person that did the wrong thing and took advantage of people at their worst possible hour.

On Oct. 17, the Colorado Bureau of Investigation reported that all 189 sets of remains had successfully been removed from the Penrose location, with the Fremont County Coroners Office and victim advocates beginning the next phase  notifying families and loved ones of the identified bodies.

Officials say they do not have an anticipated timeline for completion.

Tomsky said there are protocols in place which funeral directors should follow, from receiving first call, that someone has died and is in need of funeral home services, to providing the family with a death certificate and service options.

First, basic information is collected on the deceased person, and who is their next of kin. The funeral home then transports the deceased person to the funeral home. Then the funeral home discusses what the family would like to do with remains. Tomsky said the majority choose a traditional burial or cremation.

A signature from the decedents next of kin is then required to proceed to completing the paperwork necessary to receive a death certificate.

We then fill out a form that emulates a death certificate called an EDR (Electronic Death Record), Tomsky said.

The EDR is then passed along to a doctor or coroner for signature before the funeral home will receive a "disposition of remains," a permit to proceed with burial or cremation.

If you are outsourcing cremations, a permit is then required for transfer, and it must meet all of the requirements  including the name of the decedent, their sex, place and county the death occurred, and the name of the funeral home or place of cremation, Tomsky said

This is the step where Tomsky speculates Hallford discovered a "loophole."

In Colorado, the state does not confirm the place of cremation once a funeral home lists it on the death certificate.

Tomsky, who is not part of the ongoing criminal investigation into Return to Nature, said it appears to him that the Hallfords might have been listing the names of crematoriums on death certificates, and then never following through with the actual cremations.

That is what seems to have happened with at least 20 of the families according to Lisa Epps, an attorney for the Wilbert Cremations in Commerce City.

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Jesse Elliott of Woodland Park, whose mother was brought to Return to Nature for cremation services last spring, made a followup inquiry with Wilbert after reviewing his mother's death certificate, according to previous reporting by The Gazette.

Wilbert spokespeople told Elliott and The Gazette that the crematorium had severed ties with Return to Nature in 2022  months before the passing of his mother, and the time she was allegedly cremated.

Weve been contacted by 20 or more families in respect to whether or not a cremation was done, Epps said. In each case, Epps said the death certificate provided by Return to Nature listed Wilbert as having done the cremation, even though Wilbert had no record of it.

Elliott said there were other warning signs regarding his mother's remains. The ashes he received seemed suspicious and the standard metal tag that usually accompanies a decedents body through the cremation process was missing from the urn Return to Nature provided.

A metal coin with the name of the crematorium and the decedent stays with the person through the entire process, said Tomsky, describing the industry standard.

Everything is logged  their weight, when they were out in the crematorium, when they were cremated, when they were removed from the crematorium and who received the cremated remains.

Harwood, whose business contracts with a crematorium in Canon City for cremations, said that although it can be difficult to verbally describe the difference between cremains ashes and another substance  like concrete  its easy to tell for those who know what to look for.

"They're going to be a white or grayish color and a powdery consistency," Harwood said. "You can definitely tell when it's cremations rather than some other substance."

Tomsky has an idea about how to improve oversight of his industry.

I think the state could tighten up on requesting the permit to be returned either electronically, or crematories should be able to confirm with the state to verify the cremation took place.

Although there are state regulations regarding the funeral home industry, Colorado remains the only state in the nation that does not require a minimal level of education and training in order for individuals to be licensed, according to previous reports by The Gazette.

Joe Walsh, president of the Colorado Funeral Directors Association, said he's already received numerous calls from legislators, adding that he foresees regulation and changes to the industry in the future.

In the meantime, there are steps families can ensure proper care when choosing a funeral home to handle the remains of their loved ones.

Harwood suggests that anyone who purchased a prearranged funeral through Return to Nature should take their paperwork to another funeral home, and have the paperwork looked over and transferred.

"If the paperwork was filed properly, those funeral plans, and their money should be intact," Harwood said.

Take the time to learn about the crematorium, who the people are, and find out if they do the cremations in house, or if they transfer to another facility  and utilizing another facility is not a bad thing if its done correctly, Tomsky said. An educated consumer is always our best customer.
Kathleen "Kathy" Easley is a semi-retired registered nurse, currently employed at MercyOne. She says she is running for Mason City School Board because, "the Mason City school systems helped shape myself and my family members to become successful adults. Now that I am semi-retired and have life experiences and 7 grandchildren I have the time, knowledge, and passion to try and move forward with positive changes to better the children of our community whom ultimately are the future and the success or failure of the community depends on our children and providing them with a solid educational foundation."

Kevin, Easley's husband of 48 years will also be on the ballot this November; he's running for a seat on the Mason City Council.

Screenshotted Facebook posts from Easley's account indicate she was in Washington, D.C., at the time of the Jan. 6, 2021, riots at the U.S. Capitol for a bus trip "with 52 others" that she described as "one of the most peaceful and inspirational adventures I've ever been on."

In regards to the retiring of the Mohawk mascot, Easley said "I will admit, when they wanted to change the name, I was opposed to it," said Easley. "Now that it's changed, I would not be opposed to changing it back as long as no, and I repeat, no taxpayer dollars could fund it, because my first and foremost concern is for the children and their education. If there's someone that would leave an endowment or a large cash price that could cover it, I would be for it."

"Unless we can get new businesses to come here and move to our community, (enrollment) will continue to be a problem. It's not an easy fix," said Easley at the Oct 17 school board forum.

Easley believes that a fresh set of eyes is imperative for the district's future, saying "MCHS is currently rated #177 in Iowa (citing to a 2022 U.S. News and World Report summary) with decreased scores in Math, Reading, and Science below the 50% mark, making it imperative that new leadership steps in and we work on programs to increase our scores."

Education savings accounts are another issue at stake for Iowa public schools with savings accounts now allowing parents to use education funds deposited into government-authorized savings accounts and dedicated for K-12 education options outside of public schools.

"I believe if public schools are funded by the state and federal government that there should be some subsidies for parents who access learning services such as private and religious schools to best suit the learning needs of their children. ESAs do not have a negative fiscal impact on public schools or taxpayers. They do not 'drain' public schools or defund them. Only state dollars fund ESAs; federal and local funds stay behind in a student's home district even though the student is no longer there. Studies show that educational choice programs not only improve academic outcomes of those who participate in them but also the outcomes of the students remaining in public schools. According to a March 2021 poll conducted by Morning Consult 75% of parents' nationwide support ESA's."

"I feel the No. 1 priority is creating a safe environment for the students and staff. I feel that if everyone is treated ... I say the same, and that doesn't fit all the equity, diversity and all that," Easley said at an Oct. 17 forum. "We need to get rid of labels. The minute we start saying 'you're this, you're that ... you know, you're a Catholic, you're a Protestant, you're black, you're white, you're purple. It's racist. That's what it's coming from. Why can't we just be what we are? We are one race, and we are the human race."

When asked about the state asserting control over curriculum and the banning of books from school libraries, Easley said, "I think we need to safeguard our kids," saying "I am totally against the banning of books, but we need age-appropriate books. We have to get back to the basics, and I believe the first step is starting with the local school boards working with state Legislature to make changes to curriculum and standards of learning material that are affecting our school systems and not the one size fits all that is controlled at the federal level."

"I have a great-nephew and many children and grandchildren of friends and neighbors as well as a daughter-in-law who teaches in the Mason City school system," said Easley. "I care about all the children of the Mason City school system because I was born and raised in this community, built my family here, and plan to live out my remaining life here and want to advocate for the children who are the future of this community that means so much to me. I want all students to achieve success because we as community win."

Easley has been endorsed by her fellow candidates Tom Stalker and Constance Dianda.

This story has been updated for context.
A Michigan man was sentenced to six years in federal prison Oct. 23 for illegal possession of a firearm that was found after a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle across Franklin and Wright counties.

According to a release from the United States Attorney's Office, 23-year-old Ahmed Abdullahai Khalif of Owosso, Mich., pleaded guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. He was a user of marijuana and convicted of illegal sale or use of a financial transaction device, both felonies, in Michigan in 2019.

An Iowa State Patrol trooper clocked Khalif on Interstate 35 driving at more than 100 mph in Franklin County on Oct. 19, 2022. Khalif led the trooper on a high-speed chase into Wright County at times heading toward oncoming traffic. Khalif was eventually apprehended after ramming the trooper's vehicle and fleeing on foot.

A 9 mm Taurus pistol and marijuana were found inside the vehicle, which came back stolen out of Massachusetts. Khalif has a history of vehicle thefts.

Khalif was also ordered to spend three years on supervised release after completing his sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.

The Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa DCI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives also assisted in the case.

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A Minnesota man has been accused of stealing almost $4,200 worth of merchandise from Mills Fleet Farm in Mason City.

According to court records, 41-year-old Scott Alan Sandberg of Cannon Falls, Minn., is facing five years in prison after being charged with second-degree theft.

Court papers state Sandberg entered Mills Fleet Farm at 3200 Fourth St. S.W. around 2 p.m. Sept. 14. Once inside, he allegedly placed multiple items into a shopping cart, including a crossbow, crossbow case, Hummingbird depth finder and tools with a total value of $4,171. He then allegedly exited the store without paying for the items.

A warrant for Sandberg's address was issued Oct. 5 and he was booked into the Cerro Gordo County Jail at 5:17 a.m. Wednesday, and is being held on $7,000 bond. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for Nov. 1.

Sandberg was charged with theft in Wisconsin in September 2022.

Employment Sectors With the Best Maternity Benefits for Expecting Women Methodology & Detailed Findings An increasing number of US workers have access to paid family leave Thirteen states and DC have enacted mandatory paid leave policies over the past two decades Paid family leave availability by firm size and wage percentile 14. Accommodation & food services 13. Construction 12. Retail trade 11. Administrative & support services 10. Transportation & warehousing 9. Real estate & leasing 8. Educational services 7. Health care & social assistance 6. Manufacturing 5. Wholesale trade 4. Utilities 3. Professional, scientific, & technical services 2. Information 1. Finance & insurance
RS: Yeah, I'm saying I just bought my ticket for the Republican wing ding at the surf? Meg Markos want to go with me? Be my hot date? I'll pay for hers too if she wants

RS: You ever tried to play "darling I love you, would you please smile" with Ryan Schupick and not smile - it's really really hard

RS: I don't want to wear my blue work suit OR my gray work suit. And definitely not my black leather USA USA USA "Christian patriots" jacket. That would be a faux pas!! Let me tell you. I should probably go to Moormans and rent a tux. Because that would be appropriate etiquette for

RS: The type of black tie after dinner political wing ding events that happen at the surf ballroom

RS: "Your hand please, my lady. I must say you look positively ravishing tonight in that dress"

RS: If Meg Markos turns me down I'm asking (Globe Gazette local news editor) Lisa Grouette

RS: I know nobody likes to be third or fourth choice - but I don't know. (League of Women Voters chair) Nancy Lund ? (school board candidate) Katie Koehler ? I'll tell their husbands I'll take good care of them and have them home by midnight

RS: I don't want to go out with Stacy Besch or Governor Reynolds. I don't want a woman who thinks exactly like I do. I want a woman who really challenges me. opposites attract

RS: Yeah - Laura Belin maybe (of the website Bleeding Heartland)? Why not?

RS: SCREW OFF ROB SAND SHE'S MINE !!!!

LAURA BELIN IS MINE

My one and only

RS: We're going to read Sylvia Plath together on a park bench in clear lake

RS: "Mom! Please let me go? Please talk to dad. Ryan Schupick's a really good guy . And he really really likes me. Please mom? I promise we won't do anything you wouldn't approve of."

That's the correct response

RS: And if you need to reach me -

I'll be over here listening to "Son of a preacher man"

RS: Just please don't make me go out with Joy Behar or Nancy Pelosi

I draw the line there - for now

RS: They might get better with age - like a fine wine

RS: I think I'd even consider a private candlelit dinner with Hakeem Jefferies just the two of us. (No homo)

RS: Anything we don't cover at dinner we can discuss in the steam room at some bath house in New York, probably, probably

RS: Pay no attention to the old psychiatric reports from back when sodomy was criminally illegal - about how it's a disordered expression of sexuality, highly correlated with dark triad personality traits and oftentimes a manifestation of extreme antisocial attitudes.

RS: Love is love guys.

And what Hakeem Jeffries have between us in the steam room of some bath house in New York is pure.

We're going to get married
A group of High Point University education students and faculty recently taught students in South Africa, while other students spent their fall break following their faith journey through a pilgrimage in Asheville.

Students teach and learn in South Africa

Two professors and 14 HPU Stout School of Education students spent two weeks in South Africa putting their teaching skills to positive use. They worked with students from pre-school and K-12 at Orange Grove Schools (OGS) in Tarkastad, which is located in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa.

HPU students tutored children, graded papers, taught dance and read aloud from the books they brought with them to donate to each classroom. The group traveled through much of Cape Town and the eastern provinces learning about the culture, trying various cuisines and examining the history of South Africa. They also took part in a local cooking class and dined with Lionel Davis, a former political prisoner who was imprisoned on Robben Island with Nelson Mandela, the late anti-apartheid activist who served as South Africas first democratically elected president.

Tara Shollenberger, assistant professor of leadership studies, said the trip was more than just a sightseeing tour. It was a transformative experience that offered HPU students an opportunity to engage with a different culture, gain a global perspective and use the knowledge and skills theyve developed in the Stout School of Education. Shollenberger and Hilary Tanck, an assistant professor of educator preparation, accompanied students on the trip.

HPU students were able to apply skills they have developed in the education program by working one-on-one with students, reading aloud and donating their favorite book, teaching mathematics lessons and facilitating after school activities, said Shollenberger. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to understand and navigate different cultures is a vital skill. The South Africa trip helped HPU students become global citizens who are better equipped to engage classrooms through the lens of global challenges, social justice and economic disparities. This trip serves as a catalyst for future collaborations and initiatives between HPU and OGS. The experiences and insights gained will likely inspire students to continue their engagement in global projects, furthering the university's commitment to creating responsible global citizens.

Students explore faith in Asheville

The annual fall pilgrimage brought together 13 HPU students from differing majors who traveled to Asheville as a way to focus on faith in their lives. The pilgrimage was led by the Rev. Preston Davis, vice president and minister to the university, and the Rev. Chris Franks, chair of the religion and philosophy department.

I am always deeply touched by accompanying students on these pilgrimages, to see the way Gods spirit moves in their lives and how they become more deeply aware of Gods calling on their lives, said Davis. Each student comes alive on these pilgrimages to the possibilities of how they can better serve humanity.

Students were introduced to Molly Courcelle and Philip DeAngelo, two Asheville artists whose work is influenced by their Christian faith.

Students also served alongside the community at Haywood St. Church, a congregation formed intentionally for those experiencing homelessness. Students experienced a variety of worshipping communities to better understand how faith influences the lives of those congregations. The students gained a better understanding about those who live in poverty in the Asheville area, Davis said.

HPU student Carly Zimmerman participated in the pilgrimage this year and last.

This trip is always extremely inspirational and works as a spiritual reset during the semester, said Zimmerman. I was able to talk with God and realize that I had some questions to pray over. I loved serving at Haywood Street because it is unlike any other volunteering I have done before. The staff values treating the customers with love and respect. They have a relationship above all else mantra that means if you are serving someone and they what to talk or you would like to eat with them, then sit down, even if you are in the middle of a task. The stories I hear are incredible and frustrating at the same time because our society is not set up to help homeless people get back on their feet.
Women to Women, a permanent grantmaking endowment of the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, has announced its 2023 nonprofit grantees. The W2W Advisory Council selected six programs and awarded $175,000 to assist women and their families.

These are the nonprofit organizations and programs that W2W is supporting in the areas of health, housing, hunger, mentorship and other social services:

Diaper Bank of North Carolina - $50,000; Period Power: Distributing Dignity in Guilford County Schools

Community Housing Solutions - $30,000; Critical Home Repairs for Women and Children in Need

Backpack Beginnings - $25,000 (third installment of 4-year grant); Rising to the Challenge: Operational Expansion

YWCA - $20,000; Teen Parent Mentor Program

UNCG Center for New North Carolinians - $20,000; Community Centers for Refugees and Immigrants

Guilford Backpack Ministry - $15,000; Guilford Backpack Ministry Expansion Program

Guilford Adult Health; Guilford Community Care Network - $13,000; Strengthening the Safety Net

Each of these programs will be featured on W2W social media channels on a weekly basis. They will also be honored at the 2024 W2W Celebration Luncheon on March 14.
GREENSBORO  About 50 people gathered near N.C A&Ts student center Wednesday afternoon for a student-led demonstration in support of the Palestinians  part of a number of walkouts that were held on university campuses across the U.S. as the latest stage of the Middle East conflict enters its third week.

Sarah Jado, one of the events organizers, said the gathering was to raise awareness about whats going on in Palestine and to call for an end to U.S. aid supporting Israels military.

However, U.S. humanitarian aid, she added, should go to both Israelis and Palestinians.

Jado, a Grimsley High School alumni, said she was pleased with the turnout since she hadnt known if more than a few people would show up.

On an unseasonably warm October day, some participants walked out of classes in progress so they could participate.

Leila Noufal, a Palestinian-American student, recounted a story of recently watching videos of Palestinians in Gaza begging journalists to take their children with them. Noufal said it left her thinking how she could have been one of those children growing up in the war-torn area  except that her grandparents fled in another direction, to Jordan, when Israel drove them and many others out in 1967.

There is significance, there is power in us being here today, she said of the rally.

Ziora Ajeroh, another student, had concerns about Israel blocking off medical supplies and food to Gaza residents.

Complicating matters, the U.N. warned Wednesday that it is on the verge of running out of fuel in the Gaza Strip, forcing it to sharply curtail relief efforts in the territory devastated by Israeli airstrikes.

The warning came as hospitals in Gaza struggled to treat masses of wounded with dwindling resources.

History will continue to repeat itself over and over again upon indigenous groups around the world unless we stand up to stop it, Ajeroh said.

Ajeroh has been holding a supply drive in A&Ts student center this week, collecting menstrual pads that she said an Egyptian group called Mother Being will send to the Red Crescent Movement  a global humanitarian network  so that they can be funneled to Gaza.

I think that when discussing humanitarian issues, the needs of the most vulnerable are neglected and women and children fall under that, she said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Republicans eagerly elected Rep. Mike Johnson as House speaker Wednesday, elevating a deeply conservative but lesser-known leader to the seat of U.S. power and ending for now the political chaos in their majority.

Johnson of Louisiana swept on the first ballot with support from all Republicans anxious to put the past weeks of tumult behind and get on with the business of governing.

A lower-ranked member of the House GOP leadership team, Johnson emerged as the fourth Republican nominee in what has become an almost absurd cycle of political infighting since Kevin McCarthy's ouster as GOP factions jockey for power. While not the party's top choice for the gavel, the deeply religious and even-keeled Johnson has few foes and an important GOP backer: Donald Trump.

I think hes gonna be a fantastic speaker, Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the former president, who is now the Republican front-runner for president in 2024, is on trial over a lawsuit alleging business fraud.

Trump said he hadn't heard one negative comment about him. Everybody likes him.

Three weeks on without a House speaker, the Republicans have been wasting their majority status  a maddening embarrassment to some, democracy in action to others, but not at all how the House is expected to function.

Far-right members have refused to accept a more traditional speaker, and moderate conservatives dont want a hard-liner. While Johnson had no opponents during the private roll call late Tuesday, some two dozen Republicans did not vote, more than enough to sink his nomination.

But when GOP Conference Chair Rep. Elise Stefanik rose to introduce Johnson's name Wednesday as their nominee, Republicans jumped to their feet for an extended standing ovation.

House Republicans and Speaker Mike Johnson will never give up, she said.

Democrats again nominated their leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of New York, criticizing Johnson as an architect of Trump's legal effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election he lost.

With Republicans controlling the House only 221-212 over Democrats, Johnson can afford just a few detractors to win the gavel.

Overnight the endorsements for Johnson started pouring in, including from failed speaker hopefuls  Rep. Jim Jordan, the hard-charging Judiciary Committee chairman, gave his support, as did Majority Leader Steve Scalise, the fellow Louisiana congressman, who stood behind Johnson after he won the nomination.

Mike! Mike! Mike! lawmakers chanted at a press conference after the late-night internal vote, surrounding Johnson and posing for selfies in a show of support.

Anxious and exhausted, Republican lawmakers are desperately trying to move on.

Johnson's rise comes after a tumultuous month, capped by a head-spinning Tuesday that within a span of a few hours saw one candidate, Rep. Tom Emmer, the GOP Whip, nominated and then quickly withdraw when it became clear he would be the third candidate unable to secure enough support from GOP colleagues after Trump bashed his nomination.

He wasnt MAGA, said Trump, referring to his Make America Great Again campaign slogan.

Attention quickly turned to Johnson. A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson had rallied Republicans around Trumps legal effort to overturn the 2020 election results.

Elevating Johnson to speaker would give Louisianians two high-ranking GOP leaders, putting him above Scalise, who was rejected by hard-liners in his own bid as speaker.

Deeply religious, Johnson is affable and well liked, with a fiery belief system. Colleagues swiftly started giving their support.

Democracy is messy sometimes, but it is our system, Johnson said after winning the nomination. Were going to restore your trust in what we do here.

Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., who led a small band of hard-liners to engineer McCarthy's ouster at the start of the month, posted on social media that Mike Johnson wont be the Speaker the Swamp wants but, he is the Speaker America needs.

Republicans have been flailing all month, unable to conduct routine business as they fight amongst themselves with daunting challenges ahead.

The federal government risks a shutdown in a matter of weeks if Congress fails to pass funding legislation by a Nov. 17 deadline to keep services and offices running. More immediately, President Joe Biden has asked Congress to provide $105 billion in aid  to help Israel and Ukraine amid their wars and to shore up the U.S. border with Mexico. Federal aviation and farming programs face expiration without action.

Many hard-liners have been resisting a leader who voted for the budget deal that McCarthy struck with Biden earlier this year, which set federal spending levels that far-right Republicans don't agree with and now want to undo. They are pursuing steeper cuts to federal programs and services with next month's funding deadline.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia said she wanted assurances the candidates would pursue impeachment inquiries into Biden and other top Cabinet officials.

During the turmoil, the House is now led by a speaker pro tempore, Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the bow tie-wearing chairman of the Financial Services Committee. His main job is to elect a more permanent speaker.

Some Republicans  and Democrats  wanted to give McHenry more power to get on with the routine business of governing. But McHenry, the first person to be in the position that was created in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks as an emergency measure, declined to back those overtures. He, too, received a standing ovation.

___

Associated Press writer Jill Colvin in New York contributed to this report.

Photos: Scenes from the US House speaker vote
The headlines paint a troubling picture.

Liberals Need a Reckoning With Antisemitism.

How the Democrats betrayed the Jews.

The Left Faces a Reckoning as Israel Divides Democrats.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, a terrorist group that barbarically murdered 1,400 innocent civilians in a surprise and coordinated attack on Israel, has unleashed a shocking and appalling level of antisemitism from the left.

From a disturbing indifference to Jewish suffering, to an inability to make obvious declarative statements about Hamas atrocities, to a repeated moral equivalency between Israel and Hamas  the latter of which explicitly wants to wipe Jews off the planet  to outright hostility toward Jews, the ugly invective is coming from some unexpected places.

Inside the Democratic Party, elected state officials and members of Congress have refused to condemn Hamas and many have called for an immediate Israeli ceasefire, essentially demanding the IDF leave Hamas alone.

Rep. Rashida Tlaib and others are offering conspiracy theories about the attacks akin to 9/11 trutherism. Tlaib, for example, does not believe U.S., Israeli, and media reports that an Islamic Jihad rocket misfire  not Israel  caused an explosion at a Gaza hospital. Instead, she believes Hamas, the terrorists, and is demanding an independent investigation. Both the White House and the Israeli government have long, documented histories of misleading the public about war and war crimes, she said.

On college campuses, many of which are now infamous for trigger warnings, banning offensive speech and creating safe spaces, professors and students are trafficking in viciously antisemitic comments in support of Palestinians, with one national student group celebrating the massacre as a historic win for the Palestinian resistance.

In left-wing and mainstream media, a slew of commentators, hosts and reporters have pushed Hamas propaganda and anti-Israel sentiment. According to Gallup, Democratic voters are also now more sympathetic toward Palestinians than Israelis, for the first time since it began asking the question.

This has all led to some soul-searching and exasperation among American Jews who once counted Democrats as supporters. Rabbi Joel Simonds says, In these last few days, the silence is deafening and it is hurtful and a betrayal on so many levels. Its not going to change the way we look at justice. Its going to change the way we look at our allies.

Playwright David Mamet wrote of the sick thrill of antisemitism inside the Democratic Party, that they repeat and refuse to retract the libel that Israel bombed a hospital, in spite of absolute proof to the contrary, and will not call out the unutterable atrocities of Hamas. The writing is on the wall. In blood.

I know how disorienting, disappointing and distressing this is for my Jewish friends, as many have shared with me how scared and unsafe they suddenly feel in a country they thought would Never Forget.

Back in 2017 I was shocked when hundreds of white supremacists, neo-Nazis, racists and bigots marched at a Virginia rally  unmasked and unashamed  wielding tiki torches, and screaming racist slogans like, Our blood, our soil, Jews will not replace us, and White Lives Matter!

In the wake of the Charlottesville violence, where one neo-Nazi rammed his car into a crowd of anti-racist protesters, injuring dozens and killing one woman, the president told America that there were some very fine people on both sides.

Now the naked and appalling bigotry and hate is coming from inside my own political party.

Racism, of course, wasnt new. Its always been here. But to watch this level of proud intolerance take hold of a wing of the Republican Party, metastasize over the ensuing years, infect Congress and the right-wing media, and receive comfort from the partys biggest standard-bearer  the president  has been one of the hardest things to watch in my career in politics.If youd told me 25 years ago that the Republican Party of Lincoln would one day elect white nationalists to Congress, that a president would dine openly with neo-Nazis and Holocaust deniers, that a presidential candidate would insist that slavery had its upside, I wouldnt have believed you. Similarly, if youd told me that the Democratic Party of Harry Truman would struggle one day to defend massacred Jews against Islamic terrorists whose stated purpose is the destruction of Israel and the annihilation of the Jews, I wouldnt have believed this either. I know its a painful reality to confront. But just as Donald Trump exposed a dark and ugly underbelly of the far right, Hamas has exposed a dark and ugly underbelly of the far left.
Consultancy and Kathmandu International Hospital have recently announced a partnership with the aim of revolutionizing healthcare services in Kathmandu, Nepal., the Managing Director of TRLS Healthcare Consultancy, expressed that the alliance between their healthcare consultancy and Kathmandu International Hospital represents a significant milestone in their commitment to delivering a new era of healthcare excellence.By combining the clinical expertise of KIH and the strategic insights of TRLS Healthcare Consultancy, they aim to create a healthcare system that prioritizes quality, affordability, and patient-centric care. The partnership between Kathmandu International Hospital and TRLS Healthcare Consultancy brings several improvements, including quality improvement, operational efficiency, strategic planning, technology integration, and regulatory compliance. Dr. Harish Chandra Neupane, the Chairman of Kathmandu International Hospital , expressed his pleasure and anticipation in announcing the partnership.He stated that this association is a significant step towards improving healthcare in the region and beyond. The two organizations are working together to redefine healthcare delivery. The partnership includes project advisory, MEP audit, and medical planning services. These services contribute to better patient care, specialized centers of excellence, market expansion, research, education, cost savings, and community engagement.
Former state auditor and Helena attorney John Morrison has launched a bid for chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court after nearly 15 years away from public office.

Morrison, 62, said in an interview this week his bid for chief justice is a campaign to strengthen public confidence to the court.

"I am running for chief justice because something I care about very deeply is in danger: liberty and justice for all," he said.

The judiciary has been the target of partisan angst for several years now as Montana Republicans have found many of their policy goals struck down or delayed in legal challenges. Morrison declined to directly criticize any official in that quarrel, but said undermining trust in the judiciary only creates further constitutional crises.

"(Our) freedoms are only as good as the courts that are there to fairly adjudicate disputes and to interpret the constitution, and as good as other governmental leaders who honor those decisions and respect them," Morrison said. "Our constitutional government depends on the leaders of government, respecting the separation of powers."

Morrison was previously elected Montana's state auditor in 2000 and again in 2004. He held that office for two terms as a Democrat, and ran for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate in 2006.

The work done by office of state auditor and commissioner of securities and insurance is hardly ever a partisan endeavor, although Republicans have been relentless in their assertion that liberals have a hold on the courts.

Morrison pointed to several current and former justices who used to hold partisan office, including outgoing Chief Justice Mike McGrath, who served two terms as a Democratic attorney general.

"The Montana Supreme Court has had many justices that previously identified with some political party," he said. "Two of the last three chief justices were people who formerly held political office with a letter by their name."

Morrison said voters are more interested in who can exercise impartiality if elected to the bench. Voters appeared to reject last year's conspicuous efforts by the GOP to elect Public Service Commission President James Brown to the high court. Incumbent Associate Justice Ingrid Gustafson won that contest with 54% of the vote.

"I think that the people who tried to make that (race) political in the last cycle suffered in the election," Morrison said.

While auditor, Morrison's office shepherded the implementation of Insure Montana, which helped hundreds of small businesses with the costs of employee health care coverage by way of tobacco taxes. Morrison called the program a "harbinger" of what later became the Affordable Care Act.

His office also drafted the widely successful ballot measure eventually known as Healthy Montana Kids, which immediately expanded health coverage to 10,000 children in Montana and brought in more than $200 million reimbursement dollars from the federal government.

Morrison has been counsel in several cases of public interest in private practice, including in recent years the $14 million dollar judgment against a neo-Nazi blogger who terrorized a Whitefish woman's family and a $7 million settlement for employees who accused hospitals of a kickback scheme involving overpaying for insurance.

"I think that experience along with my work as the leader of an agency and as an elected public official put me in a good position to add something positive to the current makeup of the court," he said.

Public life also comes with some scrutiny, and in 2006 Morrison was the subject of questioning over his office's handling of a securities fraud case. The press reported Morrison previously had an affair with a woman who later was married to the man under investigation in 2006. Morrison handed that case off to an independent investigator and his deputy signed off on the resulting settlement.

Morrison himself raised the 2006 episode in a 2019 poll that went out to voters asking how those events would impact a voter's decision if he were to run for statewide office. Those results were never released and Morrison declined to share them on the record this week. But in a letter published in Lee Montana Newspapers several former statewide officials, including a Secretary of State, Supreme Court Justice, Commissioner of Political Practices and U.S. District Attorney for Montana offered a renewed public defense against questions of impropriety and said his return to public office would be "good news for Montana."

"I'm happy to have my record as a lawyer and as a public official be looked at in this race," Morrison said this week. "These races are not about the past though, they're about the future. And they're not about the candidate so much as they are about the voter. And so I think it's appropriate for us to think about the issues in the situation that we're dealing with right now and the importance of it."

As of this story's publishing, Morrison's only opponent for the chief justice post is Jerry Lynch, once Montana's longest-serving federal magistrate.

Morrison has never been a judge before, and Lynch has never had to run for election. Both opined on the judicial priority in upholding precedent as a matter of consistency and stability. In Montana, abortion services remain legally accessible by the precedent set in the 1999 case known as Armstrong.

"It's important to be consistent and not have each decision be a one-off," Morrison said. His judicial philosophy is "that the Montana Supreme Court should be fair, it should be consistent and it should stick to the law, including the constitution."

Morrison emphasized he respects Lynch. But he said his time in the state court system, and being an experienced practitioner in both court systems, gives him an edge in the race.

"I feel like my background, my qualifications, me being at this point in my life and my career, and the dangers that we described and the atmosphere we described, all come together to make this the right time for me to be the chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court."
As landowners who live, work and ranch by coal mining operations, weve learned a lot about the coal industry.

First off, the people who do the actual labor on the ground are hardworking, proud and typically act with honor and integrity. By its nature, coal mining compromises land and water, which means that problems arise between coal operations and nearby property owners.

When dealing with these inevitable conflicts, discussions with workers are respectful, honest and productive. When coal executives and their lobbyists get involved, however, we often see the opposite  the respect shared between working people gets shoved aside as corporations pursue profit despite harm to local communities.

Sadly, two bills passed during Montanas last legislative session that serve the narrow interests of coal lobbyists while violating the rights and safety of residents who live near coal operations and all who live downstream. The good news is that these bills still need federal approval before they can become law, and Montanans have an opportunity to stand up for ranchers, rural residents and the many water sources endangered by this lobbyist legislation. Before discussing how we can right these wrongs, here are some details about the bills.

HB 576, sponsored by Rep. Rhonda Knudsen, R-Culbertson, would allow coal corporations to deplete and contaminate water sources adjacent to coal mining with minimal liability. The bill alters how damage to land and water is defined -- making Montana law much more ambiguous -- giving state agencies and coal companies tremendous leeway in deciding what damage looks like. This legal murkiness would all but force landowners to seek clarity from the court when water or land is damaged. But another bill, SB 392, makes that prospect dangerous to anyone without extremely deep pockets.

SB 392, sponsored by Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick, R-Great Falls, would require litigants seeking justice for property or water damage by coal companies to pay the legal fees of a coal corporation if a judge rules in the coal companys favor. Going to court over property disputes with coal corporations is already an intimidating and costly endeavor. However, circumstances arise where seeking justice through litigation is the only option available to protect ones land and livelihood. SB 392 inserts enormous financial intimidation and risk so that only the wealthiest Montanans could seek justice from coal corporations. Impacted landowners would be robbed of any realistic access to our justice system.

Individually, these bills are dangerous violations of federal law. Taken together, they would be downright catastrophic for coal communities. HB 576 essentially guarantees more damages while SB 392 blocks the opportunity to seek justice for those damages. We have both witnessed neighbors issues or personally experienced damage to our water and land from coal mining. Weve also seen how hard it is to get water repaired or replaced.

Many coal country ranchers and landowners testified last session and spoke directly with legislators. We described the challenges faced to protect our land and water. After hearing directly from citizens, both HB 576 and SB 392 died at various points within the legislative process. However, once regular citizens were gone, coal lobbyists used last minute procedural maneuvers to resurrect both bills, and legislators capitulated. Now, its up to regular citizens, once again, to stand up for our laws and rights.

The Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement (OSMRE) acts as a federal safeguard against corrupt laws like these, and must approve the bills before they can become law. OSMRE has opened a comment period through Nov. 6 to hear directly from Montanans about this issue. To learn more about lending your voice to protect our land, water, and neighbors in coal country, visit NorthernPlains.org/ProtectCoalCommunities.

For almost 50 years, our laws have ensured coal mining, agriculture, and communities can coexist alongside one another.

We simply want those laws upheld and hope youll join this effort.
China to firmly support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation

09:03, October 26, 2023 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Photo shows a regulating metering station of a natural gas pipeline project built by a Chinese enterprise in Thailand. The project was put into use in September this year. (People's Daily/Sun Guangyong)

Chinese President Xi Jinping announced eight major steps China will take to support high-quality Belt and Road cooperation at the opening ceremony of the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), injecting confidence and impetus into jointly creating a prosperous future.

The eight major steps include concrete goals, as well as important cooperation initiatives and institutional measures - building a multidimensional Belt and Road connectivity network, supporting an open world economy, carrying out practical cooperation, promoting green development, advancing scientific and technological innovation, supporting people-to-people exchanges, promoting integrity-based Belt and Road cooperation, and strengthening institutional building for international Belt and Road cooperation.

These major steps are in line with promoting high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, as well as the sustainable development of Belt and Road countries.

The steps have evoked strong resonance from all relevant parties. Some said the eight major steps inspire every participant in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and demonstrate China's commitment to practical cooperation and sharing opportunities. Some said these steps provide guidance for deepening Belt and Road international cooperation.

The eight major steps manifest the synergy of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

Belt and Road countries have formed synergy among their policy coordination and development planning through international cooperation. Aiming for high-standard, sustainable and people-centered progress, they deliver benefits to all the people with fruitful results and contribute to their social and economic development.

China will speed up the high-quality development of the China-Europe Railway Express and vigorously integrate ports, shipping and trading services under the "Silk Road Maritime."

It will establish pilot zones for Silk Road e-commerce cooperation and enter into free trade agreements and investment protection treaties with more countries.

Photo shows a section of an expressway built by a Chinese enterprise in Montenegro. (Photo/Lu Xiaochao)

The country will remove all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector and hold the Global Digital Trade Expo annually. It will promote both signature projects and "small yet smart" livelihood programs.

Besides, China will host the Liangzhu Forum to enhance dialogue on civilizations with BRI partner countries.

Promoting connectivity, mutual benefit, common development, cooperation and win-win outcomes, the BRI will continue to gather positive energy for development.

International observers noted that these Chinese measures will further promote international trade and investment, foster global economic growth and make new contributions to improving global economic governance.

The eight major steps focus on the new development of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation.

To pursue the philosophy of open, green and clean cooperation is an essential requirement for promoting the high-quality development of the BRI. China will continue to deepen cooperation in areas such as green infrastructure, green energy and green transportation, step up support for the BRI International Green Development Coalition, and implement the Green Investment Principles for the Belt and Road.

China will continue to implement the Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Action Plan, hold the first Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchange, and increase the number of joint laboratories built with other parties to 100 in the next five years.

China has put forward the Global Initiative for Artificial Intelligence (AI) Governance. It stands ready to increase exchanges and dialogue with other countries and jointly promote the sound, orderly and secure AI development in the world.

Photo shows a sewage treatment plant built by a Chinese enterprise in Bangladesh. (Photo/Deng Junheng)

Together with its cooperation partners, China released the Achievements and Prospects of Belt and Road Integrity Building and the High-Level Principles on Belt and Road Integrity Building.

It is believed globally that Belt and Road cooperation on digital and green development is painting a promising picture of economic growth, win-win cooperation, and common prosperity for participating countries.

The eight major steps improve mechanisms for high-quality Belt and Road international cooperation.

China will work with its BRI partner countries to strengthen the building of multilateral cooperation platforms covering energy, taxation, finance, green development, disaster reduction, anti-corruption, think tank, media, culture and other fields. China will continue to host the BRF and establish a secretariat for the Forum.

According to a chair's statement of the third BRF, China has launched together with its cooperation partners more than 20 multilateral dialogue and cooperation platforms. The measures will play an important role in promoting mechanism construction and the implementation of projects.

Kirill Babaev, director of the Institute of China and Modern Asia at the Russian Academy of Sciences, noted that the eight major steps announced by Xi will make the BRI achievements more impressive in the future.

"Belt and Road cooperation, robust and fruitful in its first decade, is now full of dynamism and vitality. We must embark with drive and enthusiasm on the new journey toward another golden decade," Xi said.

As long as all parties make continuous efforts, the BRI will surely embrace higher-quality and higher-level development, providing impetus for economic growth and common development of the world.

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Hunters see mixed success on opening weekend

Warm, mild weather across south-central Montana led to mixed hunter numbers and success for the 2023 big game general hunting season opening weekend.

The general season opened Oct. 21, and will run until Nov. 26.

There were 968 big game hunters who visited check stations in south-central Montana over the opening weekend. This is a decrease from the 1,212 hunters observed over the same weekend in 2022. Hunter numbers and success rates varied across the region.

Forecasted highs in the 20s and potential snow will impact animal movement and hunting conditions later this week and into the weekend.

FWP taking comment on hunting regulations

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host a series of virtual and in-person public meetings around the state to present proposed hunting regulations for 2024/2025 hunting seasons.

Every other year, broad changes to hunting regulations are considered through a public process that includes public scoping and comment on regulation changes proposed by FWP. Ultimately the Fish and Wildlife Commission adopts most hunting seasons for two-year intervals. This season-setting process looks at all aspects of hunting regulations, including season structure, regulations and hunting district boundaries.

The commission will vote on hunting regulations for the 2024/2025 hunting season during its Dec. 14 meeting, which will include the opportunity for the public to comment.

The proposed regulations maintain conservative measures FWP already put into place last year and earlier this year to address mule deer declines in parts of Montana.

To view proposed regulations and to comment, go to fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission/december-2023-meeting.

Wolf management comment sought

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a draft plan and environmental impact statement to guide the agencys recommendations for the long-term management and conservation of wolves.

The draft 2023 Montana Gray Wolf Conservation and Management Plan (2023 Wolf Plan) incorporates updates in wolf-related research, more than 20 years of management experience, evolution in conflict management, new laws, social perspectives and public input.

The new draft plan builds on a foundation of FWP wolf management: monitoring populations, tracking harvest, effective conflict management, and flexibility to integrate evolutions in science.

The draft 2023 Wolf Plan shifts a key counting metric from the number of breeding pairs to the number of wolves representing at least 15 breeding pairs. The draft 2023 plan establishes that 450 wolves would ensure 15 breeding pairs. Population estimates will continue to be determined by the peer-reviewed Integrated Patch Occupancy Modeling method, or iPOM. The draft 2023 plan also describes the current depredation prevention and response program.

In the past 20 years, the public has had opportunities to comment on various components of wolf management as it was considered by the Montana Legislature, the Fish and Wildlife Commission, and FWP. Given this and the current direction within statute for wolf management in the state, FWP is not convening a citizen advisory group for wolf management at this time.

FWP is seeking public comment for 60 days on both the draft 2023 Wolf Plan and DEIS. The deadline for comments is Dec. 19 at 5 p.m. To view the draft 2023 Wolf Plan and comment, click here.

FWP is also seeking public comment on the draft environmental impact statement (DEIS). This document analyzes the environmental impacts of the proposed plans. To view the associated DEIS, click here.

Comments will be collected online and can also be sent by mail to 2023 Montana Wolf Management Plan DEIS, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Wildlife Division, 1420 E. Sixth Ave. Helena, 59620, or by email to FWPWolfPlanEIS@mt.gov.

Public meetings to answer questions about the draft 2023 Wolf Plan will be scheduled prior to the close of the public comment period and announced soon on the FWP website.

Fence pull volunteers needed

Pheasants Forever, in conjunction with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and Montana Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, is hosting a fence pull at Yellowstone Wildlife Management Area (WMA) on Friday, to improve habitat connectivity. All equipment will be provided, but participants are asked to bring lunch and water.

Participants should meet at the large shop building located at the WMA. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to a 2021 National Geographic report, 600,000 miles of rural fencing run throughout the American west. Fencing is an essential aspect of livestock and property management. However, fencing  especially unnecessary barbed wire fencing  can become hazardous to wildlife and create barriers for their daily and seasonal movement.

Participants will remove unnecessary and abandoned fencing on the property to improve habitat connectivity at this popular hunting location. For more information on the event, contact Crystallaina White with Pheasants Forever at clwhite@pheasantsforever.org

For more information on Yellowstone WMA, including location, visit: https://bit.ly/45FzMaN.

Here's how to report poachers

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks toll-free hotline for reporting wildlife poaching, property damage, and violations of fish and game laws is in operation 24 hours a day.

TIP-MONT is the acronym for Turn in PoachersMontana. Poaching includes:

Hunting out of season or at night using spotlights

Taking more than one's legal limit

Nonresidents who purchase resident licenses

Professional and commercial poachers who illegally offer outfitter and guide services.

If you witnesses a fish and game violation, or property vandalism, you can report the crime by calling 1-800-TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668); or Report a Violation online at fwp.mt.gov, then click Enforcement.

Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Ask before you hunt

Montana's millions of acres of private land offer some excellent hunting opportunities  the only catch is gaining the landowner's permission to hunt.

It is Montana law that hunters obtain landowner permission to hunt on all private land.

Here are a few things to keep in mind that will greatly improve results when attempting to secure hunting access to private land.

Show courtesy to the landowner and make hunting arrangements by calling or visiting at times convenient to the landowner.

Plan ahead and secure permission well in advance of the actual hunting date.

Provide complete information about yourself and your hunting companions, including vehicle descriptions and license plate numbers.

Explain what type of hunting you wish to do and be sure to ask any questions which can help clarify the conditions of access.

Follow the landowners instructions and bring with you only the companions for whom you obtained landowner permission.

Be sure to thank the landowner after your hunt.

Hunters and landowners can learn more by investing some time on Montana's Hunter-Landowner Stewardship Project, a program that promotes responsible hunter behavior and good hunter and landowner relationships in Montana. Visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov, then click "Hunting" under Quick Links.

For more information on hunting access in Montana, check out the "Hunter Access" pages on FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov.

Christmas tree permits available

Christmas tree/ Holiday tree permits are officially available for the 2023 holiday season, the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest said.

Permits can be purchased online or at local ranger district through Dec. 31.
The $96,180 grant will provide a John Deere 5525 tractor, two John Deere Gators, a John Deere two-row planter and a Frontier BD 1307 drill, a King Cutter 5-foot tiller, a John Deere three-point mower, and a three-point Bush Hog turf mower. The equipment, which the grant specifies is only for the use of the ag program, will be kept at the Ag Center, 3080 S. Business Route 51.

It's nice to have the Ag Center but even nicer to have equipment, said board Vice President Jason Dion.

The Ag Center, completed earlier this year and funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, houses classes for the Ag Academy and includes farmland and an arena for large events. The Ag Academy, established five years ago also with funding from Buffett's foundation, offers classes at both Eisenhower and MacArthur high schools with FFA chapters in the high schools, and includes the Living Science Farm on the grounds of American Dreamer Stem Academy, with a barn for raising animals and plots for growing crops. The program has approximately 500 students enrolled this year.

It's about our kids' future and helping secure our kids' future, said board President Bill Clevenger. The Ag Academy has done something very few cities across the county have been able to think about, much less accomplish.

Also at Tuesday's board meeting, the student ambassadors' name has been changed to junior board members. A new member, Lily Rinchiuso, a junior at MacArthur, was sworn in at that meeting, and she joins AZahrien Perry and Sydney Walker, who are Eisenhower students. Junior board members bring reports to the board from their interactions with other students, and offer student perspectives on issues that affect students when board members seek their opinions.

The board also heard an update on the Essential Skills program of the Macon-Piatt Special Education District. The program at Hope Academy cut back to half days effective Oct. 24, with half the students attending in the mornings and the other half in the afternoons, due to short staffing.

Macon-Piatt Special Education District Executive Director Kathy Horath said there are nine staff vacancies which directly work with the students in the Essential Skills program, making it impossible to adequately meet the needs of all students at the same time.

The positions include one teacher, five teaching assistants, and three licensed practical nurses/teaching assistants. Special education at Hope has 18 vacancies total, and she told the school board she and her staff are working diligently to fill those positions.

Recently students at Eisenhower volunteered for a Special Olympics event with students in special education classes, and she encouraged the students and their counselors to look into careers in special education. The laws have changed to allow high school graduates to become teaching assistants.

I have an exit plan (for returning to full days), but it has to to be when we can fill those positions, and the length of time it takes is much longer, Horath said. With background checks and employment history review, it just takes longer.

Board member Mark Reynolds asked Horath if there is anything the district can do to assist parents who have to be at work during the hours their students are not in class.

The problem, Horath said, is that the students in Essential Skills are high needs students, many with multiple disabilities and medical needs that most community day cares and programs can't handle.

That is something I'd like to work with community leaders on, to develop more options for day care, she said.

Photos: 2023 Farm Progress Show
DECATUR  Jarveah Young, a third grader at Decaturs Montessori Academy for Peace, was invited on the stage of her school with hopes of becoming a member of the Mouth Guards.

To become one of the superheroes, she and other students had to learn how to take care of her teeth.

I learned about flossing and using mouthwash, she said.

And to brush our teeth twice a day, said first grader Jazyir Flagg.

I do that already, said classmate Presley Sutton.

Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation brought the Land of Smiles program, along with a pair of actors, to educate the schools younger students on how to take care of their mouths and teeth.

Kristi Contreary and Jordon Thomas from the National Theater for Children took on the roles of Terry Tooth Fairy, Toothpick, Capt. Super Grin and their greatest enemy Caz Cavity to aid in teaching the fundamentals of dental care.

We are trying to teach them the importance of very good oral hygiene, Thomas said.

Were going to educate you on it while keeping you entertained and engaged, Contreary said.

The Land of Smiles program has traveled to various schools throughout Illinois starting in September. The last date is scheduled for Nov. 17.

The Land of Smiles program was invited to Montessori, as well as Baum Elementary School earlier in the day. Crystal Jackson, Montessoris school nurse, wanted the students to receive a fun, yet educational, way of learning how to take care of their teeth.

Its very important for children to establish that when they are younger, she said. So they can get into good habits.

The program is designed to reach students in kindergarten through third grade, the actors said.

We want to make sure they are included, Contreary said about the shows approach to learning. But oral hygiene is for everyone.

Through the characters struggles to eliminate Caz Cavity, the students were reminded to brush their teeth twice a day, eat healthy foods and even to exercise. They were also taught the anatomy of a tooth, such as the enamel, dentin, pulp and root.

These were things I didnt even know about when I started this, Contreary said.

The actors utilize audience participation, inviting students, such as Jarveah, on stage as well as encouraging the students to yell out answers to the dental questions.

Once we get going, people get interested, Thomas said.

They get really involved, Contreary said.

By the end of the program, the students are also superheroes ready to fight plaque and cavities.

Jackson has organized other dental programs for the local students in the past.

One of the local dentists donated all of the toothbrushes for the kids, she said. Then we did a little lesson for them.

The Land of Smiles program was more entertaining for the students, according to Jackson.

Dental cleaning is not always fun, she said.

Is this your teacher?  13 educator photos from the Herald & Review archives
SPRINGFIELD  Downstate electric utilities, trade unions and their allies in the legislature waived the white flag Wednesday on their attempt to override Gov. J.B. Pritzkers amendatory veto of a measure that would have given the utilities first dibs on building out billions of dollars in new transmission lines.

Instead, hoping to negate the argument that this thing was done in the dark, the bills sponsor said advocates would embark on a campaign to educate legislators with hopes of bringing forward a new proposal in the spring legislative session.

So were looking at doing a full education swing in the spring, introduce a bill that puts the state of Illinois as a right-of-first-refusal state for the whole state with no sunset, said state Rep. Larry Walsh, D-Elwood. But we want to educate the public, the members of the legislature, the ratepayers, etc. that this is the right policy.

The stakes are high. Bids are anticipated for a tranche of transmission projects over the next few years as the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, the regional transmission organization that operates the grid in downstate Illinois and 14 other Midwestern states, prepares for a flood of wind and solar projects that are expected to come online.

The union- and utility-backed proposal would have granted downstate utilities Ameren and MidAmerican Energy the right to build new transmission lines without having to go through a competitive bidding process. The measure would have sunset at the end of 2024.

This right-of-first-refusal provision was slipped into a larger energy bill via an amendment in the waning days of the legislative session in May. It received significant support from moderate Democrats and all Republicans, but was opposed by progressives.

The measure was perceived by some as a legislative sneak attack as many legislators did not have time to review the amendment before it passed. Powerful statehouse interests, including utility companies, have used similar tactics in the past to push favorable legislation in Springfield.

In this case, proponents say the measure is needed to expedite the buildout of new transmission lines, and will allow the work to be controlled by the utilities and workers already familiar with the grid.

Pritzker issued an amendatory veto of the measure in August, arguing that was anti-competitive and would ultimately lead to higher electricity bills for ratepayers.

Bill proponents, most notably Ameren and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, still worked behind the scenes to garner support for an override, which requires a three-fifths vote in both legislative chambers.

However, it became clear that the uphill effort was going to fall short.

In a letter sent to legislators earlier this week, Ameren president and chairman Leonard Singh said the utility has been subjected to well-funded misinformation campaigns by out-of-state developers and special interests.

We share the same goals as environmental advocates and consumer stakeholders: accelerate the clean energy transition and keep energy costs affordable, Singh wrote. ROFR is the best option to prevent unnecessary delays in construction and hundreds of millions of dollars in potential cost overruns.

Eight states in MISO have right-of-first-refusal laws on the books. Many were enacted after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 2011 eliminated the federal right-of-first refusal for regionally-planned transmission lines in hopes of spurring more competition and lower costs.

Absent such a provision, the bidding process would revert to federal rules. Unions and utilities argue this would allow out-of-state companies to underbid projects, which would not be subject to more stringent state regulations and labor standards.

The abandonment of the override attempt is a victory for Pritzker along with consumer advocates and environmental groups who backed him up in opposing the measure.

Organized labor is one of the most powerful collective forces in the Capitol. If the unions want something, they often get it. Utilities have historically wielded significant influence under the dome as well.

Walsh told reporters that the 2024 sunset provision would not be included in the new bill. He also seemed to indicate that the right-of-first-refusal would extend to the whole state, which means Commonwealth Edison would be included.

The Chicago-area utility giant was largely sidelined from legislative action this past session due to the trial of the ComEd Four  two former utility executives and two lobbyists  for conspiring to bribe former House Speaker Michael Madigan in exchange for support of the utilitys statehouse agenda.

They were all found guilty. Madigan himself goes on trial next year.

The days of large utilities driving energy policy in Illinois are long over. But given the significant amount of work needed to meet the states goal of 100% clean energy generation by 2050, they will have a prominent seat at the table on anything related to the grid.

We will see what happens this spring.

Legislative staff union bill passes House

A proposal from Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, D-Hillside, that would allow state legislative staff to unionize passed the House on Wednesday.

A new legislative agency would also be created to represent the interests of the General Assembly in the collective bargaining process.

Illinois is one of several states where legislative staff have sought the right to organize. And Welchs bill takes much of its language from legislation that passed in California earlier this year.

Welchs staff has been seeking to unionize since late November, just weeks after Illinois voters approved an amendment to the state constitution last year enshrining the right to unionize as fundamental. But a change in state law was still needed to facilitate their aspirations, labor law experts said.

The bill now goes to the Senate, where its fate is far-from-certain.

Other statehouse action

Nuclear moratorium: An override vote is not expected on Pritzkers veto of Senate Bill 76, which would lift the states moratorium on the construction of new nuclear plants. However, statehouse insiders believe a compromise bill could be considered when lawmakers return to Springfield in two weeks.

Invest in Kids: The future of the Invest in Kids tax credit scholarship program looks bleak. The program, which funds private school scholarships for low-income students, sunsets at the end of this year. Teachers unions and progressive elected officials have been fighting against the programs renewal. While a revised proposal meant to appease some concerns has been filed, many believe its chances of passing are not great.

In addition to lacking votes among progressive Democrats, the Illinois Freedom Caucus called the revised proposal a non-starter. Though the caucus represents just seven House members, every vote counts during veto session, when three-fifths are needed to pass legislation. If appears that the programs best chances for renewal could come in January, when the threshold for passing legislation returns to a simple majority. Pritzker told reporters earlier this week that he would sign its extension if passed by the legislature.

Contact Brenden Moore at brenden.moore@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter: @brendenmoore13
ABINGDON, Va.  A developer wants to establish a $110 million high density residential project just outside the Bristol Virginia and Bristol Tennessee city limits.

Developer Jerome Malinay wants to put as many as 340 homes on the site near the intersection of King Mill Pike and Sinking Creek Road, in the High Point community. To do so he will need Washington County to rezone the land from A-2 agricultural to R-3, the countys first high density residential area.

On Monday, Washington Countys Planning Commission gave an initial green light to the project.

The commission hosted a public hearing and then voted to recommend that the county Board of Supervisors approve the rezoning request.

The developer projects this would generate about $660,000 annually in property tax revenues to county coffers.

Properties around this parcel are residential and open space. The property to the west is in the R-2 zoning district. The properties to the north is in the R-2 zoning district, according to a Planning Commission document.

Properties to the east are in the R-2 and A-2 zoning districts. There are two residential subdivisions that adjoin the property to the east. The city of Bristol Tennessee adjoins the property to the south. Adjoining properties include a condominium development and a housing development. Properties in the city of Bristol Tennessee that lie between this property and Old Jonesboro Road and King College are dense residential developments, according to the document.

Homes would range from 1,800 to 3,200 square feet and sell for approximately $276,000 and up, according to Malinay and Washington County Zoning Administrator Stephen Richardson.

The property would have a minimum lot size of 7,500 square feet.

Malinay compared the proposed subdivision to another project he is currently developing in Bristol, Tennessee. There, the expansion of the Fox Meadows subdivision included a rezoning and some opposition from nearby homeowners for plans to add about 180 residential homes to land off Beaver Creek Road.

Entrances to the Washington County project would be on Jordan Lane, King Mill Pike and Stone Drive, Richardson said.

The Jordan Lane access needs improvement because its kind of narrow, Commissioner Christina Clark Rehfuss said during the meeting.

A few residents spoke during Mondays public hearing, saying they were concerned about drainage issues and increased traffic with the subdivision. Some compared the high-density housing to Northern Virginia and said they dont want Washington County to be developed in that cookie cutter approach.

This is a big step for the county. I want it to be done right, said Jack Rohr, a farmer who spoke at Mondays public hearing.

This R-3 is a different animal. Weve never had anything like this in the county, Rohr said. I do hope that Washington County leadership will continue to protect and preserve the rural life of Washington County.

The development, according to Richardson, could take years to become reality, given the many hurdles that remain with environmental officials to determine how the land would drain; when and how to connect to water and sewer; and determining roads and entrances through the Virginia Department of Transportation.

The number of homes that could fit on the property could also vary between 300 and 340, Richardson said.

Its hard to speculate until they do a stormwater plan to see how much space would be taken up with detention ponds, Richardson said.

Commissioner Paul Widener made the motion to pass the rezoning, seconded by Commissioner Dulcie Mumpower.

The housing is needed, Mumpower said. I guess you could say this is a prelim. Weve still got things to work out.

The subdivision plan is now expected to be reviewed by the Washington County Board of Supervisors at the boards Nov. 14 meeting.
Town of Catawba residents will be voting in contested races for both mayor and town council this year.

Mayor Donald Duck Robinson is facing a challenge from Shannon Dishman. Incumbent councilmen Donnie Allen and Carroll Yount are running for reelection while Cynthia Evans and Amanda Drum Stewart are challengers running for seats on the council.

Robinson, Yount and Evans responded with answers to questions about their campaigns.

In the town of Brookford, four candidates are running for the four seats on the towns council.

Incumbents Sue Noblitt and Bill McGregor are running for reelection while Dallas McKinney and James Weaver are seeking seats on the town board of aldermen.

McKinney and Weaver responded to questionnaires asking about their plans if elected.

Here is a look at the responses from the candidates in Catawba and Brookford. They have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.

Catawba Mayor

Donald Duck Robinson

Donald Robinson Background Age: 62 Occupation: Part-time volunteer fire chief; retired police officer/fire chief Education: Bunker Hill High School 1979; Catawba Valley Community College 1981 BLET, Continued Education courses related to Law, Fire, Rescue, EMS, Supervision, Financial Management and Local Government currently and for the past 44 years Current/previous elected or appointed experience: Current Mayor Town of Catawba (2015-Current) Previous Elected and served 10 years Town of Catawba Town Council and 2 years as Mayor ProTem, Currenly appointed to Western Piedmont Council of Government Policy Board, Currently appointed and serving Greater Hickory MPO (TAC) Candidate contact Phone: 828-241-2563 Email: Donald.Robinson@townofcatawbanc.org

Why are you running for this office?

I am from the town of Catawba and have been here my entire life. I love this town and the people that live within it.

Daily I see, meet, and interact with numerous citizens and neighbors. I get to hear their concerns, issues and praises regarding our little town. Most of those conversations are very pleasant and some are tough.

Those conversations are important to me, and I work very hard to find the answers they are looking for, and how we as a town can make situations better. I have dedicated my life to our town and have loved serving it in various capacities through the years.

I know that our town is at a critical crossroad, with huge decisions to make so that we can manage growth in a way that we do not lose all the things our citizens love about our town and community.

I am confident that I will represent all citizens well with my experience in these processes, and I will stay involved to ensure that we make the right choices on behalf of our citizens.

Over the years I have worked hard for our citizens and have established relationships with the leaders across this county and state.

Much of the infrastructure that we need will be costly and those relationships provide our town with the opportunity of joint ventures, which potentially open us up to funding opportunities. Like other small towns, we have many elderly citizens that live on a fixed income. It is necessary that we keep that at the top of the list in all decisions we make that would have a financial impact on our citizens.

I am proud to say that through many conversations, meetings, and tough decisions our current elected officials unanimously voted and approved a budget which included a rate reduction from 58 cents to a 40 cents tax rate. The discussions were tough but as a group we were able to agree on this final number.

The town of Catawba made the biggest tax rate decrease in the county and we passed a very lean budget. There will be more tough decisions that come around, and for that reason I ask for your vote to allow me to continue to represent your best interest for our town. It is truly an honor to serve, and I am thankful for your trust and support.

What makes you the best person to serve in this role?

As a mayor, one must be available to meet all the requirements and requests that come with the position. There are countless meetings within the town, county and region that require attendance.

It is hard to have a demanding job that requires you to be in one location constantly. A mayor must have the flexibility to go and do the things that need to be done when they arise, whether it be meetings, interactions with concerned citizens or attending special events. I can do those things and have done those for this town.

In addition, the mayor is often appointed to various boards and committees for different groups.

Those groups have tremendous influence on the decisions that are made within our region. Our representation in those meetings is vital to ensure that our town is not overlooked. Through my time served and experience, I have been fortunate enough to build relationships, establish trust and have a voice in those decisions.

As our town faces many challenges in the upcoming years, we must have seasoned and experienced leaders in place to ensure that our voices are heard and understood. I am proud to say that I do not often meet a stranger and am thankful to have met and come to know many of our citizens. I remain willing to listen to the concerns from those within our community. I have proven to be reliable and understanding for those who reach out to me regarding town business.

Lastly, I would say that I love the town of Catawba and am passionate about protecting the quality of life that we have been fortunate enough to enjoy through the years.

I have always been upfront and honest with all of my decisions and will continue to represent all of the citizens of this town. I am the most qualified candidate for mayor and would appreciate your vote!

What is the biggest challenge in your community?

Life is about balance and that is the same within small towns and communities. Our biggest challenge as a town is to balance the growth while maintaining the qualities of life that we enjoy in our town.

We must provide the necessities that our community needs, to include low taxation for our residents, and amenities that our citizens want and need. They want good food options for lunch/dinner, a grocery store close by, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Some of those require investments and it is the job of the elected officials to attract those willing to invest in our town. To keep residential taxes low, we must attract business and commercial/industrial to build our commercial tax base up.

We are in an ideal area for business. We have room in and around the I-40 corridor that could be attractive for those wanting to start a new business when land/development becomes available.

We currently have some of those already and they are tremendous assets to our tax base. We can build that base even stronger.

Those new businesses also come with better paying jobs for our citizens. More business is a way for us to maintain a low and fair tax rate for our citizens. We are currently working on those types of projects, and I would like to see them through completion. For these reasons I ask you for your support and vote!

Catawba Town Council

Cynthia B. Evans

Cynthia Evans Background Age: 63 Occupation: Retail management Education: University of NC at Charlotte BA in Computer Science Current/previous elected or appointed office held: None

Why are you running for this office?

Catawba is a growing community. We are very diverse, which is a good quality to look for when wanting to relocate.

With the growth we are experiencing we need to find new ways to keep our hometown feel but embrace the changes that we are seeing. We need to plan for this expansion by finding ways to attract new businesses also, such as a food mart or a small hardware store to meet the needs we will soon have.

What makes you the best person to serve in this role?

I have been a part of this community for over 45 years, so I have witnessed the growth we are going through. Town councils as well as all elected offices should welcome new people to bring new ideas to the planning of the future of that community.

What is the biggest challenge in your community?

With the new housing communities that are being built and that are going to be built in the near future, we need to find a way to attract new businesses that will fill the need that is going to arise, such as a restaurant open late at night and on Sundays and a place for the children to go such as a game room.

We will (need) our park updated and new sidewalks.

Carroll Yount

Carroll Yount Background Age: 68 Occupation: Retired from CommScope Education: UNC-Charlotte, business administration Current/previous office held: Catawba Town Council, 2019-present

Why are you running for this office?

Im running to serve our community.

What makes you the best person to serve in this role?

My only agenda is to improve our town.

What is the biggest challenge in your community?

Whole area is growing exponentially.

Brookford Town Council

Dallas McKinney

What are you hoping to accomplish if you are elected?

What I am hoping to accomplish if I am elected as alderman is bringing life back into the beautiful town of Brookford.

We have an amazing town within the city of Hickory, and its time that people know how great it can be! Nature walking trails, food trucks, musicals/plays at the Brookford auditorium, movie nights outside on the ball field, holiday celebrations  this is only the beginning!

Help me bring family friendly fun to our little corner of the world!

James Weaver

Note: Weaver did not submit a photo

James Weaver Background Age: 72 Occupation: Retired Education: High school graduate Current/previous elected or appointed office held: Former Brookford alderman Candidate contact: 828-612-0076

What are you hoping to accomplish if you are elected?

I would like to encourage a greater pride in our community and help the town continue to grow.

Ive lived in Brookford for 35 years and have seen lots of growth, some good and some not. I would like to ensure the good keeps going.

I plan to serve the people and keep their best interest in mind. If you have any suggestions for the town, feel free to contact me. I would encourage all Brookford citizens to join our monthly town meetings. Please come out and vote your conscience.
It would be hard today to find an old-fashioned boardinghouse where you could spend the night and eat a meal with the other boarders.

Not impossible but difficult, and yet less than a century ago boardinghouses covered the towns and cities where Americans came together for eating and sleeping.

Although most boardinghouses might be gone today, memories are firm.

Elizabeth Engelhardt, Kenan Eminent Professor of Southern Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, has collected hundreds of them for her new book, Boardinghouse Women: How Southern Keepers, Cooks, Nurses, Widows, and Runaways Shaped Modern America. The book is to be published by UNC press in November.

Engelhardt cites examples of how women escaped irrelevance and became accomplished and independent businesspeople as the owners and operators of boardinghouses in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

One of her examples, Julia Wolfe, ran the Old Kentucky Home boardinghouse in Asheville at the turn of the last century. The experiences in her boardinghouse formed an important basis for her son Thomas Wolfes novel, Look Homeward Angel.

Engelhardt writes, So intertwined was her identity with the business, Wolfe did not allow herself to have even small luxuries in her own private quarters of the house. A plain cot without a headboard and a single chair were the only furnishings in her room. Julia Wolfe became the face of her boardinghouse and the driver of its operations  roles she played for the rest of her life.

Another famous boardinghouse child, the late New York Times food critic Craig Claiborne, said that his love of food came from his experiences in his mothers boardinghouse.

Engelhardt has assembled scores of other examples where ambitious or desperate women struggled to make their boardinghouse business successful. She also shows how the boardinghouse experiences of women had an impact on the typical foods that we today call southern.

I have my own boardinghouse memory.

At Davidson College, when I was growing up, there were 12 fraternities. Each had a boardinghouse in town  for eating only. The boardinghouse woman in charge was called a housemother. Each fraternity also had a small cottage on the campus for formal fraternity activities. But the real activity centered around the boardinghouses in the town. In about 1957, the college built a brand-new fraternity court and brought the eating and social activities of the fraternities onto the campus centered in the new fraternity houses.

The housemothers moved from town, each into a comfortable apartment in the new fraternity house. Each one continued to supervise a staff and was in charge of preparing the three meals a day. It was a big operation. Not all the housemothers were happy. As a part of my temporary job as assistant dean of students, I was charged with looking out for the housemothers and doing what I could to make them happier.

I did my best.

About 20 years later when I was a Charlotte lawyer running as a Democrat for the U. S. Congress, I stopped by an apartment building in the Myers Park area of Charlotte to make a few campaign cold calls on some of the residents.

When I knocked on one door, a charming older lady greeted me, Oh D.G., I am so glad to see you. When I was a housemother at Davidson you were so wonderful to me. You paid attention to us. You arranged for a meeting with the president and the dean. Things got better. Ill always be grateful.

I was thrilled with this encounter. Campaign workers were hard to come by and she would certainly be a supporter of my political efforts.

But when I asked her if she would help give out campaign literature in her building, she said, Oh no, D.G., I would never do that. Im a Republican.

Another tough boardinghouse woman!
Circle, the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, has partnered with Taiwanese crypto exchange BitoGroup and Taiwan FamilyMart to expand its presence in the market.

Circle said today in a statement that the trio is launching a points-to-crypto service to allow users to convert their FamilyMart loyalty points into cryptocurrencies such as USDC. With the introduction of USDC in the enhanced Points-to-Crypto service, we aim to empower the Taiwanese community to participate in the digital economy seamlessly and support Taiwans stance in embracing digital fintech innovations, Raagulan Pathy, vice president of Asia Pacific for Circle, said in the statement.

FamilyMart, the second-largest convenience store chain in Taiwan, has long adopted a loyalty point system. THE survey conducted in 2021 by the Taiwanese think tank Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute showed that 87% of users engaged in points accumulation, and 99% of them used the points often for product redemptions.

BitoGroup also stated that it currently has nearly 800,000 members, taking up close to 90% of the market share in Taiwan.

Taiwan in discussion for crypto regulation

Currently, Taiwan has required virtual asset service providers to comply with anti-money laundering laws since the Financial Supervisory Commission introduced anti-money laundering rules in July 2021. Otherwise, the crypto industry remains largely unregulated.

The FSC in September released a set of guidelines for the crypto sector to form its own self-supervisory rules through a potential industry association.

Additionally, Yung-Chang Chiang, a Taiwanese lawmaker, told The Block earlier this month that he hopes to officially propose the draft of a special crypto act for first reading by the end of November, if not sooner.

 2023 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
All Peoples Church of Jesus Christ

Worship at 11 a.m. Sunday at American Legion Post 172. Pastor: Prophet Roland Jordan delivers the message. Sermon: The Time to Worry about the King. Boycott the People Who Dont Want to Help Gods People, the Poor People, the Misfortunate, the Christians.

Ann Street United Methodist Church

335 Ann St., Concord. Pastor: Rev. Randy L. Wall. In person and Facebook Live worship at 11 a.m. Church Homecoming 2023! Rev. Ken Eller: Former pastor, Ann Street Church. Sermon: Being Disciples of Jesus Christ. Scripture: Mark 1:16-20; Matthew 28:16-20.

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. Sermon: Grace: Refused? Scripture: Genesis 4:1-16.

Bogers Chapel United Methodist Church

1775 Flowes Store Road East, Concord. Pastor: Pastor Eric Shaver. 9 a.m. Sunday school. 10 a.m. Worship Service (In person or Facebook). Fifth Sunday Singing. Scripture Reading: Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17.

Calvary Lutheran Church

950 Bradley St., Concord. 704-782-6923. Pastor: Rev. Debbie Frye. In-person worship at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. (Traditional Worship with Childrens Church). Coffee/Cookie Social 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 live-streamed 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: Reformation Sunday  Staying Put in Gods Word.

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: Good Soil and a Surprising Harvest. Scripture: Mark 4:3-9, 20.

Cold Springs Global Methodist Church

2550 Cold Springs Rd., 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 Pkwy., 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 Street, 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.

Eastside Missionary Baptist Church

199 Elgin Drive, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Stephen Burrow. In person services: Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Worship services 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, 9 a.m. Sunday School/small groups10 a.m. Traditional worship11 a.m. Both the contemporary and the traditional worship services will also be live-streamed at foresthillumc.org or facebook.com/foresthillumc, in case you dont feel like being here in person.

Harmony United Methodist Church

101 White Street, 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: Need a Testimony? Scripture: I John 5:1; Gospel of John 3:14-15; I John 5:2-4; Gospel of John 15:15; I John 5:5; I John 5:6; Gospel of John 14:17; I John 5:7-8; Matthew 18:16; I John 5:9-10; Romans 8:15-16; I John 5:11-12. We welcome you to join us in worship! Service is live on Facebook.com/HarmonyUnitedMethodistChurch and we welcome all who are unable to join us in person to worship with us online. For more information, you can call the Pastors phone 704-791-2883 or the churchs phone 704-782-8237.

Jackson Park United Methodist Church

715 Mable Ave., Kannapolis. Pastor Laurie Knoespel. Adult Sunday School 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 afterwards. Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost. Sermon: The Greatest Commands. Scripture: Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17; I Thessalonians 2:1-8; Matthew 22:34-46.

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. Twenty-second Sunday after Pentecost and Reformation Sunday. Sermon: Dealing with Disappointment. First Reading: Psalm 90:1-6. Second Reading: Deuteronomy 34:1-12. Suggested Hymns: UMH 110, A Mighty Fortress is Our God; UMH 140, Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Mt. Mitchell United Methodist Church

6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis. Pastor: Joel Locklear. Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. (Adult and Children classes.) Worship at 11 a.m. in person or Facebook. Sermon: Whats Love Got To Do With It? Scripture: Matthew 22:34-46.

Multiply Church Concord

150 Warren C. Coleman Blvd. N, Concord. Pastor: Rev. Douglas Witherup. 8:30 a.m. service held at 280 Concord Pkwy 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. Also available on 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. Sermon: The Breastplate of Righteousness. Scripture: Isaiah 49:12-21.

St. Johns Reformed Church

901 N. Main St., Kannapolis. Pastor: Rev. Chris King. Sunday school for all ages9:30 a.m. Worship Service10:30 a.m. Website  www.ourstjohns.org. Email/Phone- ourstjohns@gmail.com / 704-932-3656. Sermon: Biblical Basis for the Use of Vestments. Scripture: Exodus 28:1-5; John 3:1-2.

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!
70th Cold Springs barbecue/Brunswick stew

The 70th annual Cold Springs Global Methodist Church barbecue/Brunswick stew event will be held Saturday, Oct. 28, starting at 9 a.m.

The barbecue and Brunswick stew will be carry-outs only.

Poplar Tent Presbyterian fall festival

The fall festival at Poplar Tent Presbyterian Church, 6841 Poplar Tent Road, will be held Sunday, Oct. 29.

The festival is free to the community from 5-7 p.m. There will be a trunk-or-treat, live music, food truck, face painting, corn hole, games and more.

Prayers of Israel and Gaza

The Commons, a community prayer space in Concord, invites you to join a time of prayer for Israel and Gaza, at 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 29.

The prayer session will be in their space at 75 Church St., N., Concord, at First Presbyterian.

For more information visit: www.thecommonsprayerroom.com.

Soup and sandwich sale

Mt. Mitchell UMC is having a soup and sandwich sale on Saturday, Oct. 28, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is at 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis.

Halloween supper

A Halloween supper will be provided by Mt. Mitchell UMC for the trick-or-treaters families from 4-6 p.m. on Oct. 31 at Yost Park beside the church.

The church is at 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Road, Kannapolis.

Trunk-or-treat and cookout at Calvary Lutheran

Calvary Lutheran Church is hosting its trunk-or-treat and cookout on Saturday, Oct. 28, at 4 p.m. It is trick-or-treating in a fun, safe environment from 4-5 p.m.

Afterward enjoy a hot dog supper and outdoor games until 6 p.m. Free event. You can also enter your vehicle to give out treats.

To sign up please visit: Trunk or Treat Vehicle Signup: Calvary Trunk or Treat Vehicle Signup (signupgenius.com). The church is located at 950 Bradley St., Concord.

Caregiver Support Group via Zoom

Calvary Lutheran Churchs Caregiver Support Group is meeting Monday, Oct. 30, at 7:30 p.m.

This Caregiver Support Group meets monthly via Zoom. All are welcome. For the Zoom link please check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or contact the church office at 704-782-6923.

The Poplar Tent barbecue

Poplar Tents 76th Bar-B-Que will be Thursday, Nov. 2, at Poplar Tent Presbyterian Church at 6841 Poplar Tent Road.

The event features wood smoked, pit cooked pork barbecue. Plates include barbecue, Brunswick stew and slaw. Also available are barbecue sandwiches, pounds of barbecue, pints of stew, slaw and barbecue sauce.

Quilt show, bake sale and auction

A quilt show, bake sale and silent auction will be held at Epworth UMC, 1030 Burrage Road, NE, Concord, on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event features new and historic-pieced quilts, quilting material for sale, silent auction items and cash-and-carry baked goods.

The quilt show is sponsored by members of the Epworth United Women in Faith. If you want to display a quilt, call Jewell Parker at 704-918-7250.

Scribner leads womens conference

A womens Cconference lead by Dr. Tricia Scribner will be held at Second Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The conference is based on Scribners book, Under the Wing. The church is at 1578 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Kannapolis.

Ham and chicken dinner

Friendship United Methodist Church is having a Ham and Chicken Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Take out or drive by. Individual plates are $10 and combo plates are $12. Includes potato salad, green beans, slaw, dessert and bread.

The church is at 4695 Mt. Pleasant Road, S., Concord or call 704-786-3335.

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 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 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.

Surviving the Holidays program

Pitts Baptist Church, 140 Pitts School Road, NW, Concord will be hosting a GriefShare Surviving the Holidays event on Tuesday, Nov. 14, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The holiday season can be especially painful after the loss of a loved one. Please join us for this encouraging seminar. For more information, call Linda Bounds at 704-793-8155.

Sausage biscuit and BBQ sale

Midway United Methodist Church is holding a sausage biscuit sale from 8 a.m. to noon and a BBQ plate sale from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 18.

There will also be a bake sale, craft sale, vendors sale, and raffle.

The church is located at 708 South Main Street in Kannapolis.

Sportscenter weekly Bible study

Join Calvary Lutheran Church for their Sportscenter Weekly Bible Study. Pastor Debbie Frye hosts a weekly bible study every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. at the Sportscenter, 233 Country Club Drive, NE, Concord.

Centering Prayer weekly via Zoom

This Centering Prayer Group meets every Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. All are welcome. For the Zoom link, check the Calvary Lutheran Church Facebook page or website http://www.clconcord.org, or call the church office at 704-782-6923.

Food give away

A Thanksgiving food give a way will be held Saturday, Nov. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Free fruits, vegetables and turkey. Pick up sites: Grace Lutheran Church, 88 Chestnut Drive, SW, Concord, www.glconcordnc.org; and Zion Hill ANE Zion Church, 86 Skipwith St., SW, Concord, www.zionhillamez.com.
CONCORD  The City of Concord, in partnership with community organizations, is pursuing innovative solutions to help revitalize a major gateway between Western Concord and historic Downtown Concord.

The city is asking for residents input to help guide decisions for the redevelopment of properties recently purchased by the city on McGill Avenue. In particular, the city is interested in exploring concepts that will address a critical community need for greater access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Concord purchased 228, 234, 236, and 240 McGill Avenue. These properties are located within the Gibson Village community, which is a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) designated food desert. To address the communitys need for greater food access, the city is exploring options to offer local fruits and vegetables through a food hub, market, or other method. The goal is to reduce barriers to fresh foods while providing residents with a pathway to healthy lifestyles.

Working with community partners, the city is also exploring the potential for a business training area that would support the development of local talent within the food and beverage industry. The idea is to support residents interested in opening their own market or restaurant and to help existing food and beverage small businesses grow.

Residents are invited to help the city Reimagine McGill by completing a brief online survey. Input from the community will help guide decisions and create positive change and redevelopment on McGill Avenue.

The survey is available in both English and Spanish and is open through Friday, Nov. 24.

 English Language Survey: https://publicinput.com/McGill

 Spanish Language Survey: https://publicinput.com/McGillEspanol

For more information, residents may also call the City of Concord Planning and Neighborhood Development Department at 704-920-5152.
Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) has been working with HPE for over two decades across all areas of the business - a business that is enjoyed by over 95% of the Australian population, with 99 radio stations across 64 markets, 105 TV signals, and the LiSTNR app that offers both live and on-demand listening.

That existing relationship has been, of course, the traditional on-premises data centre with owned and self-managed servers and other hardware. With growth, with new corporate business strategies, and with ever-increasing demands for reliable, scalable, performant - and cost-effective - technology, SCA embarked on a digital transformation project which saw the company continue its HPE relationship, but pivoting to HPE GreenLake, the HPE edge-to-cloud platform. HPE GreenLake brings all the power of cloud with the flexibility of being where the customer needs it.

The HPE GreenLake implementation stemmed from our need to deliver a seamless listening experience across every listening platform, said SCA CTO Stephen Haddad.

We have a unique business model whereby we needed to retain our on-premises data storage capability to facilitate broadcast listening, but also required a solution that can manage infrastructure at scale, effectively. Our approach to technology is to work in a reliable and simplified environment, offering the best-personalised audio experience so that we can reach the largest number of people across the country," Haddad said.

The HPE GreenLake move ensures SCA can deliver a seamless experience supporting customer audio consumption and digital advertising, providing a reliable experience for listeners, and greater revenue opportunities.

The transformation has seen SCA migrate traditional broadcast capabilities into a robust, scalable, flexible virtualised environment that supports media management and processing whether live or on-demand, without sacrificing quality at any step.

SCA has seen rapid growth since launching LiSTNR in 2020, with the app now considered Australia's number-one commercial podcast network and the fastest-growing audio app. The app reached 7.7m monthly listeners in September 2023. 20 of the top 50 podcasts in Australia are available from LiSTNR, more than any other podcast network. And, the top podcast in Australia continues to be SCA and LiSTNR's Hamish & Andy. Such figures demand highly-available, performant, trouble-free media playback, storage, and bandwidth at the highest levels.

Were proud to have delivered a technology solution that has successfully supported SCAs business objectives and growth trajectory, said HPE VP and MD South Pacific Chris Weber.

The partnership also included AC3, who supported SCA staff in deeply technical areas by providing expertise and training to support the delivery of the GreenLake solution.

"Weve been working in partnership with both businesses for many years, focused on implementing world-class technology solutions that deliver real business outcomes, and this is another great example of that, said AC3 CEO Simon Xistouris. Were proud to have played a role in implementing the HPE GreenLake solution and enabling the LiSTNR app to be so successful.
Tech giant Google will deploy two new trans-Pacific subsea cables between the United States and Australia via Fiji and French Polynesia with assistance from Australian specialist fibre and network solutions provider Vocus to deliver the new system.

The two trans-Pacific cables are named Honomoana, which runs US  French Polynesia  Australia, and Tabua, which runs US  Fiji  Australia.

A third interlink cable will run between Fiji and French Polynesia to connect two different cables, the blog post added.

The South Pacific Connect initiative will create a ring between Australia, Fiji and French Polynesia. This ring will include pre-positioned branching units that will allow other countries and territories of Oceania to take advantage of the reliability and resilience resulting from the initiative, wrote Google Cloud vice president global network infrastructure Brian Quigley in a blog post.

The US and Australian government have agreed to finance the additional connections through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific. Both will allocate US$65 million to connect the submarine cables, said the White House in a statement.

We plan to work collaboratively with commercial cable providers Google and Hawaiki Nui, in partnership with Pacific Island countries, to provide branching units for Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.

Building on existing support to the region, this work will position all Pacific Island countries to achieve primary connectivity and for countries with existing access to secure options for critical redundancy.

Vocus said in a statement they were chosen by Google to deliver the project.

Submarine cables are the superhighways of the global internet, carrying more than 97% of internet traffic around the world, said Vocus CEO Ellie Sweeney. These cables are critical digital infrastructure  we depend on them for the online applications we use every day, from banking and Government services to social media and streaming video.

The system will establish three diverse Australian landings along with dual cable paths to the US, substantially improving the resilience of Australias critical connections to the world, she said.
COMPANY NEWS: Commvault, a leading provider of data protection and cyber resilience solutions for hybrid cloud organisations, today announced that its portfolio of SaaS-delivered data protection solutions has achieved Australias Infosec Registered Assessor Program (IRAP) certification at Protected level.

Administered by the Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), the IRAP framework ensures that technology providers meet the highest security and integrity protocols in line with the Australian government's information security standards.

IRAP provides a common framework to certify a solutions security posture and resiliency from advanced threats. By conducting an in-depth examination of software architecture, design, and security protocols, IRAP certification ensures Commvaults SaaS data protection solutions meet stringent ISM (Information Security Manual) security requirements, and that government agencies and contractors can confidently adopt Commvault solutions.

It also further exemplifies Commvaults commitment to global data security, adding to its current position as the only SaaS data protection portfolio to meet FedRAMP High (In Process) status, with the approved ATO signed by the Department of Treasury on 12 July 2023.

While IRAP is an Australian-centric security framework, this certification underlines the countrys global commitment to upholding best-in-class security standards, resonating with frameworks like FedRAMP. Achieving IRAP certification is a testament to our mission of providing industry-leading protection of data against ransomware and the evolving cyber threat landscape," said Commvault vice president for Asia Pacific Martin Creighan.

With cyber threats continuing to escalate, private and public sector entities are under increased pressure to bolster their data security and cyber recovery measures.

In fact, according to a new Commvault report commissioned in partnership with IDC, both IT and business leaders understand the constant risk and dire consequences of a cyber attack, with 61% of respondents believing that data loss within the next 12 months is "likely" to "highly likely" to occur due to increasingly sophisticated access.

Combatting these concerns, Australias IRAP assessment falls under the Security Legislation Amendment (Critical Infrastructure) Bill, introduced to Parliament in 2020.

The amendment has a National Security focus and was put in place to manage risks posed in particular by foreign involvement in Australias critical infrastructure, considering that a significant amount of the countrys infrastructure is privately owned.

Commvaults entire portfolio of SaaS-delivered data protection solutions are IRAP-certified and are built into its commercial offering.

Commvaults enhanced security capabilities and solutions for cyber resilience are not only designed to offer exceptional compliance capabilities, but also offer peace of mind in terms of rapid recovery  critical in an age of escalating and non-stop cyber threats.

Join Commvault virtually on 9 November 2023 for Shift: The Global Cyber Resilience Event to Leave the Chaos Behind and explore a new approach to cyber resilience that combines security, data protection, data intelligence, cloud, and recovery.

About Commvault

Commvault is a global leader in cloud data protection. Our industry-leading platform redefines the next generation of data protection as the only solution with comprehensive data protection, proactive data defence, advanced ransomware protection, and a single view across all your data. This lets you secure, defend, and recover your data, applications, and production workloads  on-premises, in the cloud, over SaaS, or spread across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. The result is early warning of attacks, active defence to reduce the impact of intrusion, and rapid, accurate recovery of your data. Simply put, Commvault is data, protected. For over 25 years, more than 100,000 organiSations have relied on Commvault to keep their data secure and ready to drive business growth. Learn more at www.commvault.com or follow us @Commvault.
Fortinet, the global cybersecurity leader driving the convergence of networking and security, is partnering with the National Australia Bank (NAB) to hold its second annual Cyber Codefest today at Fortress Melbourne as part of the companys commitment to closing the cybersecurity skills gap by developing the cyber workforce of the future. The event will involve 80 University students, with 50 participants taking part in an engaging, hands-on, capture-the-flag competition designed to test and showcase their cybersecurity skills.

Following the success of the first Cyber Codefest held in November 2022, this years contest will include an equal ratio of female to male participants and feature teams from Deakin University, Monash University, RMIT University, Swinburne University of Technology, and the University of Melbourne. This event further builds on Fortinets partnerships with academia through the Fortinet Training Institutes Academic Partner program, which provides education institutions and schools around the world with access to industry-recognised training and certification to help develop skilled security professionals.

Held during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the capture-the-flag competition requires students to work as a team to infiltrate a network, search for intentionally placed vulnerabilities, and use those to capture a final string of code to prove where all the vulnerabilities were located. Prizes will be presented by the winners of the contest held at the 2022 Cyber Codefest.

This years event will include presentations given by industry leaders such as Sandro Bucchianeri, chief security officer at NAB and Abbas Kudrati, director and ASEAN chief cybersecurity, risk, and compliance advisor at Microsoft. The speakers will discuss their personal career path, the current job market, and the various career options available to cybersecurity graduates. Students will also be able to network with industry experts and the winners of the 2022 Cyber Codefest event throughout, providing them with an opportunity to talk with recent graduates and those currently practising within the field.

Many of the participating students are also members of the Grad Girls program created by Vic ICT for Women, which provides a range of practical initiatives that promote urban and regional womens entry, retention, and progression in technology, as well as Purple Team Australia, a program that aims to increase opportunities for women and First Nations Australians to enter the cybersecurity profession. This aligns with Fortinets focus on providing opportunities for more women to upskill and reskill in cybersecurity as part of the companys commitment to addressing the talent shortage.

Dale Nachman, country manager, Australia, Fortinet said, Fortinet is committed to developing experts in the field of cybersecurity and closing the cybersecurity skills gap. In partnership with NAB, the 2023 Cyber Codefest is designed to provide the next generation of cybersecurity professionals with insight into how these industry experts built their careers and what the students can expect when they enter the workforce. The capture the flag competition is also extremely popular as it lets students take the theory they have recently learnt and put their skills to the test in a real-world yet safe and fun environment.

Sandro Bucchianeri, chief security officer, NAB said, As weve seen this past week, cybersecurity is firmly at the top of the national agenda, and rightly so. Were facing one of the biggest existential threats of our time and we need to continue pulling our collective strengths together to bolster our countrys cyber resilience and response plan. A big part of that is ensuring the next generation of cyber professionals are ready to face up to that challenge. Thats why we continue to invest in, and build cyber skills within the education sector, working alongside Australian universities and our industry partners like Fortinet. Its initiatives like Cyber CodeFest that will make a meaningful difference in building our national cybersecurity posture, and ultimately protecting our nation.

About Fortinet

Fortinet is a driving force in the evolution of cybersecurity and the convergence of networking and security. Our mission is to secure people, devices, and data everywhere, and today we deliver cybersecurity everywhere you need it with the largest integrated portfolio of over 50 enterprise-grade products. Well over half a million customers trust Fortinets solutions, which are among the most deployed, most patented, and most validated in the industry. The Fortinet Training Institute, one of the largest and broadest training programs in the industry, is dedicated to making cybersecurity training and new career opportunities available to everyone. FortiGuard Labs, Fortinets elite threat intelligence and research organisation, develops and utilises leading-edge machine learning and AI technologies to provide customers with timely and consistently top-rated protection and actionable threat intelligence. Learn more at https://www.fortinet.com, the Fortinet Blog, and FortiGuard Labs.
Ping Identity, is a leading provider of seamless and secure digital experiences, released its annual survey that evaluates Australian consumer sentiment around engaging with brands online. The report surveyed 1,600 Australian consumers and found a need for easier and more secure capabilities that address concerns around identity theft and simplified access.

Expanding on trends from last years report, consumers are emphasising their need for convenience online, but continue to place value on effective security strategies. According to the new findings, 81% say that ease of use is important to their digital experiences, 58% would switch to a comparable brand if it offered passwordless authentication, and 65% are most concerned about identity theft, ahead of financial loss (just 40%), when it comes to having their information online.

Read the survey: Brand Loyalty In The Age Of The Digital Economy

In today's digital economy, consumers hold all of the power. Rather than simply accepting the product, service, price or conditions an organisation can offer, consumers are using the weight of their numbers to redefine the rules of engagement. Not only is there more competition among brands to see who can deliver the best digital experience, but consumers are more informed than ever. They know what they want from a positive digital experience  and are willing to leave for a competitor that does it better, said Ashley Diffey, VP Sales APAC and Japan, Ping Identity. To stay ahead of competition, businesses need to create easy, secure and personalised experiences that alleviate security concerns without collecting too much personal data."

Key Australian findings underline the importance of ease of use:

57% have stopped using an account or online service because they became frustrated with the login process; a decrease from 63% in 2022.

60% are still storing passwords by memory alone, with 58% admitting they have too many to keep track of.

40% of consumers would leave an online service to switch to a competitor if the competitors login process was significantly easier.

While Australian consumers want simple digital experiences, they also want to know their data is secure, especially given the recent proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI):

53% are concerned about the possible use of AI technology to create fake impersonations.

53% say that the use of MFA makes them feel better about the service because it suggests that the business cares about protecting their data.

Only 9% of consumers have full trust in the organisations they manage their identity data, with the most trust in banks (60%) and healthcare services (50%).

To ease consumers concerns, businesses should emphasise that they are adhering to consumer data privacy regulations and take steps to allow consumers to limit their personal information sharing:

61% say that having privacy laws enacted to protect consumer data and knowing that the website vendor is complying with those regulations makes them feel more secure when sharing information online.

69% think that they will never be fully in control of their personal information online.

77% would like to limit both the types of information about themselves that companies have access to and the number of companies that currently have access to their personal data.

The findings detailed in this report are based on responses collected from two surveys. The first survey gathered responses from 9,519 consumers across 14 regions around the world and the second survey gathered responses from 3,400 consumers in five select markets: the US, UK, France, Germany, and Australia, to learn more about consumer attitudes around their digital experiences, from engaging with brands to their security preferences.
A new state-of-the-art smartphone app, co-designed by students during Victorias pandemic lockdowns, is now available to nearly 100,000 staff and students at Monash University as a bespoke mental health promotion and prevention tool created with and for the Monash community.

The university says Monash Thrive app was developed by Thrive researchers at the Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health in response to challenges and needs reported by students during the lockdowns.

Turner Institute Director and Thrive co-lead Professor Kim Cornish said the app was unique in Australia because it was developed as a not-for-profit resource, built entirely in-house at Monash University and recorded no student data.

There are hundreds of mental health apps available via app stores, and unfortunately, many share private health information with third parties without disclosing it, Professor Cornish said, We dont.

Thrive has been developed by a mental health research-trained lab, for the community good, with privacy, co-design and evidence-based research baked into the development from day one - and its free for all users.

Monash says the app encourages users to check in daily via a customisable character to be more aware of how theyre feeling day to day, and help users identify if they are struggling - and users can see trends in their mood, and access resources on many aspects of wellbeing, such as dealing with stress, mindfulness and breathing exercises, sleep, and promotion of when and how students and staff can seek help.

Thrive co-lead and lead researcher, Melinda McCabe, said the intensive design phase was led by two clinical trial-type studies, one with over 60 students and another with over 150 students - and the overwhelmingly positive findings were accompanied by requests for fun and interactive mindfulness, journalling, and procrastination fighting tools.

The main goal of the app is to help students become more aware of their mental health and to seek help early if they need it, McCabe said. We hope all students find something within the app that they benefit from, whether it's the journaling tools called the Wheel of Feels and or the evidence-based Pomodoro timer to fight procrastination when their workload starts to build. We wanted something for everyone

Monash notes that development and research testing were completed in partnership with Allianz Care Australia, which provided funding support for the extensive testing and co-design process throughout 2020 to 2023.

The Thrive app is available to all Monash students and staff with an active Monash email address, and can be downloaded for free through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. To find out more, visit the THRIVE website.
 Jose Luis Callisaya Diaz, who is serving a 15-year term in the maximum-security Chonchocoro prison facility in Bolivia, made a bold attempt at escape, Fox News reported.

Diaz, also known as El Arana ("the spider"), wrapped himself in a sheepskin, got past a wall and crawled through the countryside surrounding the prison in the middle of the night.

Juan Carlos Limpias said Diaz "took advantage of the inclement weather to try to escape through one of the walls of the external perimeter of the prison."

He was apprehended after guards noticed he wasn't in his cell and photographed on all fours in the grass.

Perhaps he needs a new nickname: La Oveja. [Fox News, 2/16/2023]
Thursday.

Virginia Foxx - U.S. representative to you there in the front - doesnt particularly have to care what you think.

Unless youre a donor or in charge of a big money Political Action Committee that is.

She happily accepts the votes of Republicans in the 5th District, of course. Their cash, too. But the rest of her constituents can step off.

And reporters, at least those outside the friendly confines of Fox News and the like, are irritants that need to be silenced as far as Foxx is concerned.

Common courtesy and basic human decency have no place.

Exhibit A, just the latest, happened at the capitol building Tuesday evening where Republicans finally crashed the clown car and coalesced around a zealot who furiously worked behind the scenes to undermine the 2020 presidential election and refused to certify the results.

In a near viral clip that circulated widely across the Twitter-sphere and national media, we see Rep. Foxx shouting Shut Up! Shut Up! at a reporter attempting to ask now Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., a simple question.

Mr. Johnson, you helped lead the effort to overturn the 2020 election results  the reporter began.

He shook his head indicating that the soon to be second in line to the presidency would not answer for his attempts to undermine democracy.

And Foxx helpfully added her shrill two-cents.

How hard is it to say the obvious - that the 2020 election was legitimate? Three years into a new administration?

Apparently if you dont like being asked about, say, supporting insurrection and mindlessly repeating lies about a stolen election - which more than 60 judges have ruled are baseless - hissing and shouting down anyone with the temerity to speak truth to power is the way to go.

Theyre anti-democratic and anti-free speech, said John King, an anchor and chief political correspondent at CNN. They dont want to answer questions they dont like.

Well, welcome to America.

At least the part of it that still supports questioning public officials.

That Foxx (and others) can get away with such boorish behavior is due in part to the fact that she (and they) are safely ensconced in a bubble, surrounded by yes people and being taken care of by like-minded legislators who continue to carve out safe districts where extremists need not fear electoral consequences.

Election results over the past 10 years or so show that nearly 60 percent voters of the 5th District supported Republican candidates in statewide races for governor, the U.S. Senate and council of state offices. About 39 percent backed Democratic candidates including whatever sacrificial lamb the Ds ran against Foxx.

Districts dont get much safer than that.

And under new maps drawn up far from the prying eyes of voters, Foxx will continue to enjoy a free pass.

A congresswoman for life.

The only vaguely competitive congressional race shes ever had to run was her first, a crowded Republican primary in 2004. More than a half dozen candidates entered a food fight to succeed Richard Burr, who was running for a first term in the Senate.

His career didnt end in glory. Dumping stock in the face of the pandemic wasnt a good look.

But say this for Burr: He stood for truth and democracy when it mattered.

While its true Burr was going to retire, its also true that he had enough intellectual honesty to vote to impeach the guy who summoned a mob that ransacked the very building where Foxx stood shouting at people asking about undermining free elections.

And while the memes of Foxxs outburst are just getting cranked up, note who she was standing next to that podium.

Fellow boor U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, R-Colorado.

But there's an upside to that. At least Foxx wasnt vaping or groping a date while loudly interrupting a public performance.

Oh wait. Scratch that last one.

Legislative review

WINSTON-SALEM - Not that it will matter all that much since the Legislature has pretty much wound down for the year, but good government groups are hosting a town hall tonight to give residents an opportunity to share concerns about all that transpired.

Common Cause NC, Action4Equity, Democracy NC and Red, Wine & Blue will host the nonpartisan meeting at the St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, 1500 Noble Street, at 6:30 p.m.

Its intended to be partly educational about what happened in the General Assembly - the budget, expansion of legalized gambling, Medicaid, voting rights and redistricting - and partly a chance to stand at a microphone and share concerns that may have been glossed over in truncated (or non-existent) public comment periods.
The N.C. General Assembly cleared Wednesday a Republican-drawn congressional redistricting map bill that is projected to have 10 GOP-leaning, three Democrat-leaning and one swing districts.

Redistricting bills are not subject to a governors veto.

Senate Bill 757 splits Forsyth County into two congressional districts and Guilford County into three congressional districts  the latter the same as Mecklenburg and Wake counties.

The House voted 64-40 for SB757 along party lines Wednesday. The Senate cleared SB757 by a 28-18 vote Tuesday  also as expected along party lines.

Both chambers rushed to get redistricting and other bills through before the adjournment of the 2023 regular session Wednesday. The legislature is not scheduled to reconvene until Nov. 29.

House Republicans echoed Senate Republican sponsors of SB757 that the congressional redistricting map is allowed  citing a ruling from the Republican-controlled N.C. Supreme Court  to have a partisan political influence.

Both groups of Republicans stressed their opinion that SB757 does not violate any racial-focused federal voting rights laws. Lawsuits claiming SB757 is unconstitutional and in violation of racial voting laws are expected to be filled within days.

Rep. Pricey Harrison, D-Guilford, lamented during the House floor debate about how urban Forsyth and Guilford are being split again unnecessarily by SB757. Those urban areas currently are represented in the 6th District by Democrat Kathy Manning.

Kernersville, Walkertown and the southern Forsyth border with Davidson and Davie would be in the new 6th District, along with southwest Guilford and High Point, all of Davidson, Davie and Rowan counties and about 20% of Cabarrus.

The planned 6th District would have a 57-43 Republican advantage, according to an analysis by Michael Bitzer, a political science professor at Catawba College with an expertise on congressional races.

Manning has not said if she will run for reelection, citing that Guilford residents will be lumped in with far-flung counties in the western mountains, the suburbs of Charlotte, and as far south as the Sandhills.

These maps dont acknowledge that the Triad is a region with shared interests, concerns and needs.

Before SB757 cleared the legislature, Mark Walker announced plans to exit the Republican primary race for governor and run for his former 6th District seat.

Walker has been struggling to gain traction against Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who has emerged as the Republican front-runner in several statewide polls.

Meanwhile, the northwest section and much of urban Greensboro would be in the 5th District with Republican incumbent Virginia Foxx that also gains all of Rockingham and Stokes counties in lieu of the Forsyth suburban areas. The district stretches to the Tennessee and Virginia borders.

The rest of Guilford, in the shape of a backward C or as Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, D-Wake, described as a lobster claw, would be in the 9th District that includes most of the northern, east Greensboro and the vast majority of the southern Guilford portions.

Also in the 9th District would be all of solidly Republican Alamance, Hoke, Moore and Randolph counties and about 55% of a purple Chatham County and about 20% of rural northwest Cumberland County.

Democrat response

Harrison said that of the Guilford House delegation members, Democrat Amos Quick and Republican John Faircloth will be in three congressional districts, Democrat Ashton Wheeler Clemmons and Harrison in two, and only Democrat Cecil Brockman and Republican Jon Hardister in one.

Hardister is not seeking re-election to his House seat since he is running for state Labor commissioner.

Why are we doing this to the third largest metropolitan county in the state? Harrison asked. Why does District 5 go from downtown Greensboro to the Tennessee border?

Theres nothing about this that makes sense. The current map has served us well in the Triad.

Quick submitted a last-minute amendment that would have preserved the current congressional map. The amendment was defeated by a 63-40 vote along party lines.

It would take us 3 hours to drive the length of the district, Quick said. 250 miles for one district is by no means compact. The current map has natural boundaries.

Guilford County does not have enough people to make up its own congressional district, but it certainly has enough that the third largest county in North Carolina doesnt need to be split three ways.

Republican perspective

Rep. Destin Hall, R-Catawba, was chosen to represent SB757 during the House floor debate.

He repeatedly cited Republican talking points that SB757 is more adhering to the state constitution in terms of legislature map-drawing authority than the current court-drawn map that contributed to a 7-7 congressional split.

Hall said the map drawers opted that it was better to split large urban counties in order to keep smaller rural and suburban counties whole.

Theres no way anyone can draw a map that doesnt split counties, Hall said.

Some folks say splitting smaller counties means they get two votes in Congress. That may be, but I would argue to you that those representatives would have less of a reason to focus on those counties.

Forsyth impact

SB757 would remove all of Forsyth from the 5th District.

Winston-Salem and western Forsyth would be placed in the 10th District, along with solidly Republican counties Catawba, Iredell, Lincoln and Yadkin.

The 10th District is represented by Republican incumbent Patrick McHenry.

Kernersville, Walkertown and the southern Forsyth border with Davidson and Davie would be in the 6th District.

The Republican map drawers appear to be offsetting the Democratic strengths in both Forsyth and Guilford with suburban and rural voters who tend to be Republican voting, said Martin Kifer, a political science professor at High Point University.

These seats are increasingly likely to be captured by a Republican candidate, Kifer said.

Chaudhuri said the SB757 map splitting municipalities in urban cities, such as Greensboro and Winston-Salem, weakens those voters voices, particularly with Black voters.

The congressional maps unnecessarily pack the states most urban and most diverse communities, diminishing their voting power even though these are the very same areas where populations have grown, Chaudhuri said.

Marc Elias, an election law attorney working with Democrats in state and national races, said in a social-media posting Oct. 18 that I have a long history of suing and beating North Carolina in court  including three times over their congressional maps.

Im watching carefully.

However, Bitzer said the odds are similarly slim that a lawsuit filed against SB757 would be successful.

With the Republican majority on the state Supreme Court having overturned the previous Democratic majoritys partisan gerrymandering precedent, the opportunity to level a partisan gerrymandering claim is now considered a political question and out of the realm of the state courts jurisdiction to consider, Bitzer said.
The passage of the Republican-sponsored congressional redistricting map Wednesday had an immediate ripple effect in Mark Walker dropping out of the Republican primary for governor to pursue his former Sixth District seat.

Senate Bill 757 cleared the Senate by a 28-17 vote and the House by a 64-40 vote. Redistricting maps cannot be vetoed by the governor.

The map is projected to have 10 GOP-leaning, three Democrat-leaning and one swing districts. The new map will be in place  barring a court decision declaring it unconstitutional  for the 2024, 2026, 2028 and 2030 election cycles.

With the new congressional district maps being made public last week, Kelly and I have been overwhelmed with the number of grassroots citizens and officials reaching out for us to consider taking the fight back to Congress, Walker said in a statement.

Before I was redistricted out of North Carolinas 6th District by a leftist lawsuit and a handful of Raleigh elites, I was honored to serve the people of High Point and central North Carolina in the U.S. Congress.

Walker had left the door open for running for Congress even as he vocally challenged the qualifications of Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, who is the front-runner in several statewide governor polls.

State Treasurer Dale Folwell of Winston-Salem likely would become the main Republican primary challenger to Robinson.

Walker served in the 6th District from 2015 to 2021. He chose not to run for re-election in 2022 after s court-drawn congressional map flipped the 6th District to feature urban Forsyth and Guilford counties that was won by Democrat Kathy Manning.

Kernersville, Walkertown and the southern Forsyth border with Davidson and Davie would be in the 6th District, along with southwest Guilford and High Point, all of Davidson, Davie and Rowan and about 20% of Cabarrus.

The planned 6th District have a 57-43 Republican advantage, according to an analysis by Michael Bitzer, a political science professor at Catawba College with an expertise on congressional races.

Manning has not said if she will run for re-election, citing that Guilford residents will be lumped in with far-flung counties in the western mountains, the suburbs of Charlotte, and as far south as the Sandhills.

These maps dont acknowledge that the Triad is a region with shared interests, concerns and needs.

Walker had questioned in particular whether Robinson could stand up to Senate leader Phil Berger, R-Rockingham, as governor.

Yet, rural voters support for Robinson is the pivotal factor  so far  in his commanding lead in another statewide poll on the 2024 governor primary races.

Robinson led by a substantial margin among participants with a favored candidate, while Walker and Folwell have struggled to reach the 10% support level.

Transparently, it would be disingenuous of me to act as if there were a clear path in the gubernatorial race, Walker wrote. That door has not opened.

We have some solid Republican candidates running for governor, and all would be superior to Democrat Josh Stein.

Walker said a recent trip to Washington reminded him of the grind of congressional service that can be mentally, physically and spiritually exhausting.

However, there exists a radical movement designed to steal the very soul of our nation  including the hearts and minds of an entire generation. Thats why its crucial we have representation of leaders who live out conservative principles every day being grounded in a genuine faith in our Creator, God Almighty.

Folwell said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, that my experience on the campaign trail for #NCGov is that @RepMarkWalker showed up and spoke up for Conservatism  unlike @markrobinsonNC  who continues to shirk his duties and fleece taxpayers & donors.

Folwell said separately to the Winston-Salem Journal that he does not expect to receive an endorsement from Walker, citing he believes endorsements are in violation of state Republican Plan of Organization policies.

The green flag on the 2024 Republican governors race is about ready to fall, Folwell said.

The differentiator between myself and Mark Robinson in who represents Republicans is that I can govern and explain conservatism without offending people.

Walkers departure from the governors race was not surprising to John Dinan, a political science professor at Wake Forest University.

There was little indication that Walker had a path to victory in the Republican nomination for governor, and so it makes sense that he would consider running instead for a seat in Congress, Dinan said.

His decision not to run again for Congress in 2020 was a result of an unfavorable redistricting, and so it is understandable and fitting that a more favorable redistricting for the 2024 election would lead him to consider returning to Congress.
Access to mental health resources for physician associates/assistants (PAs) is an important topic. Although considerable literature on mental health and access to care exists for physicians and RNs, data on PAs and allied health professionals are scarce. Multiple studies found that about half of physicians were experiencing burnoutand that was before the COVID-19 pandemic.1 Burnout is associated with a variety of unfavorable patient outcomes, as well as increased unhealthful use of alcohol and suicidal ideation among physicians.1 Burnout in PAs is also well established and occurs at a rate similar to that of physicians, but minimal data exist on other facets of the mental health of PAs.2-4 A 2021 study found that 6% of PA respondents met screening criteria for depression, and an additional 12.6% met screening criteria for moderate or severe anxiety (N = 880).4 Another recent study identified suicidal ideation in about 4% of PAs (N = 322) and 10% of PA students (N = 728).5 Although peer-reviewed studies about the prevalence of substance use issues among PAs are lacking, research has found that 8% to 15% of physicians experience substance use disorder (SUD).6 Despite high rates of burnout and mental illness among clinicians across these healthcare professions, concerns about perceived stigma, lack of time, probing licensure questions (such as Have you ever been diagnosed with chemical dependency or addiction?), and confidentiality often are cited as barriers to seeking appropriate care.7

To address these barriers, the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) policy manual contains a section on PA impairment and wellness, with recommendations for PA licensing boards concerning questions about mental health. The AAPA suggests that licensing boards share information about provider health programs (PHPs), services offered through professional societies, and any other relevant programs.8 PHPs are confidential support programs for clinicians experiencing impairment due to physical or mental health issues and/or SUD. The policy manual recommends that licensing boards provide information about PHPs.8 These recommendations are largely derived from research, policies, and organizations for physicians (for example, the Federation of State Medical Boards).9 Peer-reviewed studies on PHPs are sparse but have found that PHPs are effective, with about 75% of participants having favorable outcomes at 5 years, as well as lower risk of malpractice claims.10,11

Recent studies have shown that only 18 states follow guidance from the Federation of State Medical Boards for questions about mental health on initial and/or renewal licensure applications, and that PAs in states that ask probing mental health questions are less likely to seek help for mental health issues or SUD.12,13 With so few states in compliance with guidance on best practices for licensure questions, there is cause for concern that many states will not adequately support PAs who may experience impairment. Given the scope of both burnout and mental health issues in the PA profession, this is an important target for advocacy efforts.

No literature is available on the prevalence of PHPs for PAs. Further, the landscape of accessible information about PHPs has not been studied. This study sought to assess the availability of PHPs as well as the accessibility of information about these resources through state licensing board and PA constituent organization websites.

METHODS

Data were collected through audits of the websites of the PA licensing board and state/district constituent group for each state and the District of Columbia from October to November 2022. Information from the Federation of State Physician Health Programs and additional Internet searches were used to ascertain whether a state had a PHP. This audit consisted of one researcher reviewing the websites in their entirety to identify whether information about a PHP for PAs was provided. Instances where this information was limited or unclear were clarified with discussion between the two researchers and (where necessary) a telephone call and/or email to the organization in question. The data collection scheme is shown in Table 1, along with the results for each item.

TABLE 1. - Data collection scheme with frequency of results collected regarding PHPs across all states and the District of Columbia Data collection scheme with frequency of results collected regarding PHPs across all states and the District of Columbia Variable Data Frequency (%) Is there a PHP serving PAs? Yes 50 (98%) No 1 (2%) Does the PHP use physician-centered language? Yes 19 (38%) No 31 (62%) Is PHP information on the website of the state's constituent organization? Yes 9 (18%) No 41 (82%) Is PHP information on the website of the state's PA licensing agency? Yes 23 (46%) No 27 (54%)

RESULTS

All 50 states and the District of Columbia were included in this study and are called states in this study for ease of readability. Every state except Massachusetts has a PHP that serves PAs. Of the 50 PHPs, 19 (38%) provide information using physician-centric language such as physician health program. Review of the 51 respective PA licensing board websites revealed that 23 states (45.1%) list PHP information (Figure 1); 9 states (17.6%) list PHP information on state PA constituent organization websites (Figure 2).

FIGURE 1.: Availability of information about the state's PHP on the state's PA licensing agency website. Washington, D.C., is not shown on the map. Its licensing agency website does not share PHP information. Massachusetts, which does not have a PHP, is counted as a no. FIGURE 2.: Availability of information about the state's PHP on the state's constituent organization website. Washington, D.C., is not shown on the map. Its constituent organization website shares PHP information. Massachusetts, which does not have a PHP, is counted as a no.

DISCUSSION

At the time of data collection, all but one state had a PHP in place that served PAs. Massachusetts, the one outlier, passed a law in 2022 mandating the creation of a PHP to serve nonphysician healthcare providers, but it had not been established at the time of data collection. Overall, PHPs are (or will soon be) available to virtually all PAs in the United States.

Unfortunately, most states fail to make the information about their PHP readily available to interested parties on the websites of licensing boards and constituent organizations. This represents an important (and easily addressed) potential barrier to PAs locating and accessing the services of their state's PHP, because PAs experiencing actual or potential impairment may fail to locate the PHP and may conclude that no services exist for them. This concern is augmented by the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health issues and SUD. Some PAs may be reluctant to inquire about resources, often multiple times, to organizations that may have the ability to influence their professional licensure. Making information about PHPs easily accessible on the websites of licensing boards and constituent organizations and clearly stating policies about confidentiality are simple steps to improve awareness and use of these important services.

Another potential barrier is the use of physician-centric language. Renaming organizations that serve various clinical groups using more inclusive language, such as provider health program, would clarify their scope and allow potential clients to identify them more readily as places to seek help.

Beyond the titles of programs and website information, the experience of researching these organizations offered additional findings that may inform future research on factors influencing PA participation in PHPs. One of these variables is the responsiveness of the PHP. Some PHPs responded quickly to questions with personal outreach and earnest attempts to engage the researchers as people potentially in need of help. By contrast, others failed to respond to multiple messages by telephone and email before eventually replying days or weeks later.

One concept that is also included in the AAPA's policy manual is safe haven non-reporting, which protects the confidentiality of participants by allowing clinicians who are receiving treatment for mental health issues or SUD to be licensed without having to disclose their diagnosis or treatment to the licensing board. The review of websites for this study revealed highly varying language on confidentiality, with some states using language that was inviting and supportive, and others being more legalistic or impersonal (Appendix 1,https://links.lww.com/JAAPA/A16). Exploration into how these differences in syntax can improve or diminish the experience of a person exploring the program, and potentially affect use of services, is an important area for future research.

Other elements on websites were a video with information and testimonials from past participants (Tennessee, Utah), a free self-screening tool for healthcare professionals who may be experiencing impairment (Tennessee), and language stating that PA students may use the PHP (Kansas). Many programs also include a list of outside websites and resources as well as contact information for suicide hotlines and other emergency resources. These features and responsive staff are likely to increase the usefulness of these websites for people searching for information and/or help through these organizations.

The results of this study indicate that PHPs for PAs are widely available. However, the broad availability of PHPs is countered by the lack of accessible information about these programs in many states. Efforts to improve this should include prominently displaying information, using PA-inclusive language, and including confidentiality policies on the websites of licensing boards and constituent organizations. Further studies are needed to understand the actual use of PHPs by PAs, the subjective experience of prospective and actual PHP participants, and the place of these programs in the larger context of clinician well-being.

LIMITATIONS

Websites are highly variable in formatting and navigation. The researchers (despite their best efforts) may have failed to find or recognize relevant information on some websites. In some cases, policies may be in place, but the websites have not been updated or the policies or language changed after our review.

CONCLUSIONS

PHPs are available for almost all PAs, but most states do not provide information about them on websites for licensing boards or constituent organizations. Improving the accessibility of information about these programs is as simple as updating websites with existing information. This will make it easier for PAs with physical or mental health issues and/or SUD to locate and access help, reducing one known barrier to accessing care.
In the perpetual turf wars in the US healthcare workforce, healthcare professions have at times attempted to identify specific features of their practice that they believe give them a particular clinical advantage over others. Because physicians have tended to dominate healthcare delivery for the past century, other professions typically compare their practice effectiveness against the physician standard, asserting, for example, that the care they deliver is just as safe and effective (using a variety of measures and proxy measures) as physician care.

One of the most common and longstanding of these assertions that is perpetuated by the professions themselves and their professional organizations is the canard that physician associates/assistants (PAs) and NPs spend more time with their patients than do physicians. In my work as a teacher, speaker, and researcher, I regularly encounter student groups and professional audiences, all of whom tend to share the impression that spending more time with patients is one of the signature characteristics of PA and NP practice. When I ask PA program applicants why they are seeking to become PAs, they invariably state that it is because they want to spend more time with patients. The perception seems to be ubiquitous and serves as a useful myth that favors the clinical reputation of PAs and NPs.

ADDRESSING THE MYTH

Generally speaking, some evidence exists supporting the claim that spending more time with patients is associated with better patient satisfaction, and NPs have posited that one of the reasons patient satisfaction has been high for NPs is the additional time they spend with patients.1,2 PAs seemed to benefit from this perception as well. Despite this, the assertion that PAs and NPs spend more time in visits than physicians has been clearly disproven by health services researchers associated with both professions.3,4

A study by noted nursing researcher Peter Buerhaus and colleagues looked at a variety of NP patient care characteristics and showed that primary care physicians and primary care NPs deliver similar services and spend their time in nearly identical ways, that primary care NPs work less [sic] hours and see fewer patients than physicians, and that only a handful of primary care NPs have their salary adjusted for productivity and quality performance.3

Another study aiming to determine if PAs and NPs spend more time with patients than physicians was conducted by PA Perri Morgan and colleagues in 2014.4 They used data from the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS) community health center (CHC) database. Their analysis examined clinician characteristics and variables related to time spent with patients across provider types, using multivariate linear regression controlling for patient and visit characteristics. The study of visits to federally qualified CHCs included 670 physicians, 245 NPs, and 103 PAs who made 24,528 patient visits from 2006 to 2010.4 The researchers found no differences in the number of visits by clinician type but noted that PAs saw patients for a slightly larger portion of the week (3.8 days) than did physicians (3.5 days, P < .05) or NPs (3.4 days, P < .05).4 No statistical differences were found in the mean time spent per patient, either in the crude or the adjusted analysis. Morgan and colleagues concluded that physicians, PAs, and NPs seemed to spend similar amounts of timeabout 20 minuteswith each patient in the CHC setting, a time allocation similar to that seen in other settings and possibly driven by clinic scheduling practices.4 This finding seems to make sense. In our fragmented, highly monetized healthcare system, the notion that all clinicians have a defined timeframe to see each patient seems logical. This finding would particularly apply in primary care private medical offices or managed care settings, where clinicians have only so much time in which to conduct the patient visit. Economic pressures affect all clinicians, and it would be an unusual luxury for clinicians to be given an unlimited timeframe in which to see each patient.

Both studies had important limitations. Both examined only PAs and NPs working in the primary care setting, and thus, the variable of specialty was not considered. Neither study was able to directly measure visit time.

NEW FINDINGS

A newly published paper from a group at Harvard University that included one PA researcher as an author examined how physicians, PAs, and NPs are integrated into care teams and shed new light on the question of time spent with patients.5 This work expanded on previous research on the work patterns of PAs and NPs compared with physicians and used more modern methods with more precise measurement tools, specifically data derived from electronic health records (EHRs). The researchers used a cross-sectional design that included 217,924 clinicians across 389 organizations (174,939 physicians and 42,985 PAs and NPs). They identified weekly total time spent by clinicians using the EHR, including time spent after hours, and on the specific activities of notes, the Epic EHR system's In Basket feature, and clinical review. Among all clinicians, 70,576 (32.4%) were in medical specialties, 85,973 (39.5%) were in primary care specialties, and 61,375 (28.2%) were in surgical specialties. Most worked in an organization with hospital and clinic facilities. More than half of PAs and NPs were in primary care specialties. Physicians were more equally distributed across specialties, with roughly a third each in primary care specialties, medical specialties, and surgical specialties.5

The findings were reported in two categoriespatient visits and time spent using the EHR. Significant differences in visit and EHR use patterns were observed for physicians, PAs, and NPs by specialty type.5 Physicians in medical and surgical specialties had more new patient visits than PAs and NPs, but primary care physicians had 2.8 percentage points fewer new patient visits than did PA and NP counterparts. In terms of EHR use, medical and surgical physicians spent 34.3 and 45.8 fewer minutes per day, respectively, using the EHR than did PAs and NPs in their specialties; primary care physicians spent 17.7 more minutes per day than did PAs and NPs in primary care. In terms of new patient visits, both medical and surgical specialty physicians had more new patient visits than PAs and NPs. Primary care physicians had more established visits than did PAs and NPs; medical and surgical physicians had fewer established visits. Primary care physicians were significantly more likely than PAs and NPs to have more than 3 days with appointments per week, but in medical and surgical specialties, physicians were significantly less likely to have more than 3 days with appointments per week.5

An important limitation of this study is that the methodology was unable to differentiate between PAs and NPs who work collaboratively with physicians compared with those who carry their own patient panels. The authors note that this prevented accurately normalizing time measures to the visit level rather than the day level.

The Rotenstein and colleagues study marks an important contribution to the healthcare research literature comparing the roles and practice patterns of PAs, NPs, and physicians and reveals the critical dimension that differences in specialties play in practice activities.5 The matter now is far beyond the simple question of who spends more time with patients. The new perspectives show that the time spent with patients varies by clinical specialty and whether the visit is with a new or established patient. As the research on PA and NP practice continues to advance, more sophisticated and powerful methods with sharper measurement tools will provide us with a clearer picture of the complexities of the physician-PA and NP team interaction and reveal the optimal patterns of their clinical effectiveness.
He wasn't Don Bacon's first choice, but the Nebraska Republican had nothing but praise for Speaker of the House Mike Johnson after he was elected Wednesday.

Johnson, 51, of Louisiana, won his position with support from all House Republicans, including Bacon, who were anxious to put aside weeks of tumult and get on with the business of governing. Johnson was quickly sworn into office.

The peoples House is back in business, Johnson declared after taking the gavel.

A lower-ranked member of the House Republican leadership team, Johnson emerged as the fourth Republican nominee for speaker in what had become an almost absurd cycle of political infighting among GOP factions since Kevin McCarthy's ouster. Republicans hold only a slim majority in the House, making it impossible for the party to elect a speaker without near-unanimous agreement.

Johnson was chosen as the Republicans' nominee after their third pick, Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., withdrew his nomination this week hours after earning it. It soon became clear that he could not secure enough votes to win the seat on the floor.

From the outside, this was strikingly similar to how Jim Jordan became the speaker designee after Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., withdrew  a process Bacon took great issue with and was his primary reason for opposing Jordan during each of the three rounds of voting last week.

The difference, Bacon said, was how Jordan and Johnson reacted after losing nomination votes to Scalise and Emmer, respectively. According to Bacon, when Jordan lost the nomination to Scalise, he said he would only support Scalise if he secured 217 floor votes  the number needed to win the seat. Rather than a true endorsement, Bacon said this was "a middle finger" to Scalise, and cost Jordan support among House Republicans when he became the nominee.

Johnson's behavior was "a 180-degree difference" from Jordan's actions, Bacon said. He said Johnson was "selfless, and decent," and while Bacon considered Emmer the most qualified speaker candidate aside from McCarthy, he didn't blame Johnson for Emmer's withdrawal.

"If I was waiting for perfection, we'd never get there," Bacon said.

The difficulty in getting to Wednesday's vote had led Rep. Mike Flood, who represents the state's 1st Congressional District, to suggest a "unity pledge" in an effort to rally the candidates for the speakership to back the eventual winner. Johnson had signed the pledge.

Bacon expressed confidence in how Johnson will lead the House forward, referring to him as a "healer" and "reconciler." The only concern he has was Johnson's lack of experience, given that he was first elected to Congress in 2016, the same year as Bacon.

Flood also congratulated Johnson. "He is a principled, constitutional conservative who will do a fantastic job leading House Republicans," he said.

While not his party's first choice for the gavel, the deeply religious and even-keeled Johnson has few foes and an important GOP backer: Donald Trump.

I think hes gonna be a fantastic speaker, Trump said Wednesday at the New York courthouse where the former president, who is now the Republican front-runner for president in 2024, is on trial over a lawsuit alleging business fraud.

Democrats blasted Johnson's nomination, calling out his role in denying the results of the 2020 election. A lawyer specializing in constitutional issues, Johnson had rallied Republicans around Trumps legal effort to overturn the election results.

Bacon's likely opponent in the 2024 general election, state Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha, used similar arguments to criticize Bacon's support for Johnson.

"Johnson co-engineered the plot to overturn the 2020 election," Vargas said in a Wednesday social media post. "He champions a national abortion ban. Bacon just handed the House to an election denier."

Bacon said he disagreed with Johnson's response to the 2020 election, but he hoped Johnson has learned since then and would not repeat his actions if faced with a similar situation in 2024.

"I think he'll stand above it," Bacon said.

A more pressing matter is to reconvene federal budget talks. The federal government risks a shutdown in a matter of weeks if Congress fails to pass eight additional appropriations bills by Nov. 17 to keep services and offices running.

Republican hard-liners have been pushing their leadership to undo the budget deal that McCarthy struck with Biden earlier this year, which set federal spending levels that far-right Republicans don't agree with. They are pursuing steeper cuts to federal programs and services with next month's funding deadline.

Bacon said Johnson has already proposed extending that deadline to January  something Bacon himself pitched as a more practical timeline to get all the bills approved. He didn't address how Johnson may approach the budget, but predicted Congress would end up with a somewhat moderate plan.

Bacon has previously called for House Republicans to work out a bipartisan budget deal, knowing that whatever proposal passes the House must also make it through the Senate, which Democrats lead.

Top Journal Star photos for October 2023
Gov. Jim Pillen has been drawing fire from local and national media for recently surfaced comments regarding a journalist reporting on elevated nitrate levels in water at more than a dozen of Pillen's hog farms.

Pillen, rather than talking about the issue or even the particular story, decided to make a personal attack on Flatwater Free Press reporter Yanqi Xu saying, "... all you got to do is look at the author. The author is from communist China. What more do you need to know?"

That's the same China that, according to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, "is typically one of the top five buyers of (Nebraska's) largest export commodities ... soybeans, beef, corn and pork." In 2021, that amounted to $2.3 billion.

While much has been made of the personal and racist nature of the attack  and rightly so  less has been discussed about the couple of sentences Pillen spoke right before on a KFAB radio segment in September.

"... I didn't read it. And I won't," Pillen said, referring to Xu's story.

The Flatwater Free Press reported that Pillen didn't respond to multiple requests for comment on the story. The governor's office referred reporters to Pillen Family Farms, where CEO and Pillen's daughter Sarah Pillen offered a vague statement, but it was, at least, a response.

Perhaps it's unsurprising that Pillen launched a personal attack on the writer, since he didn't read the story and would have no basis to dispute its facts.

Xu's piece noted that many Pillen barns don't have nitrate issues and most of those that do aren't any different from other producers. But some have bigger issues. And all of them are owned by the governor's company.

Last week, Pillen derided the "sideshow" that this issue is, but it's a sideshow of his own creation and one that could've been avoided with a more thoughtful response.

Pillen could recognize he asked Nebraskans for their vote, and, for sure, the Nebraskans who live nearest his hog operations deserve to hear his thoughts on possible water contamination.

One of his jobs is to help protect the state's environment. What message does his reaction send to people who live near hog operations? What message does his reaction send to other producers who see a cavalier response to legitimate questions? And what does his reaction say to the people whom he represents as a public servant?

Nebraska's groundwater is a precious resource. So is the trust of voters, who deserve real answers to good questions, not racial and personal attacks aimed at diverting attention from legitimate issues.

The governor is free to speak his mind. He isn't free from the consequences of doing so.
RACINE  KR Bluegrass Band  a Southeastern Wisconsin group that has been performing together for 15 years  is hosting Bluegrass Sampler, a Bluegrass music festival featuring several bands.

The two-day indoor event is Friday and Saturday, Nov. 3-4, at the Delta Marriott Hotel, , 7111 Washington Ave. in Racine.

Local, regional and two national bluegrass bands will be performing.

Concerts are 6 to 10 Friday night and 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday (with a dinner break). There will also be breakout areas for beginner musicians to play with experienced bluegrass musicians.

After attending several events like this one in southern Illinois, we just had to bring the experience of traditional bluegrass music to Southeastern Wisconsin, said Kathy Dahl, a member of KR Bluegrass Band. This is a family friendly, wholesome festival that promotes the authentic bluegrass sound.

Dahl said this event and others like it help with our mission, which is to preserve the integrity of the sound of bluegrass music.

The cost is $50 for a weekend pass, at the door. The cost for Friday only is $20 at the door. To attend on Saturday only is $35. Note: Payment at the door is cash or check only.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources policy board on Wednesday approved a new wolf management plan that leaves out a specific population goal  a move that has been applauded by conservationists but criticized by farmers and hunters seeking a limit on the number of gray wolves in the state.

The seven-member board voted unanimously to approve the management plan. It does not set an optimal population target, but it does recommend ongoing monitoring to determine how to help maintain, grow or reduce the number of wolves within the states six wolf management zones.

Board members and DNR staff said the plan creates a strong, science-based outline that will serve as a resource should the federal government remove wolves from the endangered species list, a process called delisting. If wolves are delisted, the state takes on management authority, allowing for a hunting season.

Unless we have a management plan in place, we probably wont be delisting, board member Paul Buhr said before the vote. This plan will allow producers the ability to deal with a bad wolf, a bad pack. The DNR will help with that. Theres provisions in this that will help them financially if they suffer losses.  I just feel that this plan is in the best interest long term for farmers.

Its obviously not everything they want, but theres a lot of people that didnt get everything they wanted, Buhr continued.

The updated plan, released in August, aims to maintain a statewide population of about 800 to 1,200 wolves  a level comparable to recent years.

A survey released in September estimated the statewide wolf population at 970, but the states current wolf management plan, created in 1999, called for capping the population at 350 wolves, a number used by hunters to justify a season on the animals.

Tyler Wenzlaff, director of national affairs with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, argued in the public comment portion of Wednesdays meeting that the DNRs proposal is vague and will continue to disintegrate trust in the department. He said the bureau supports maintaining a population goal of 350 wolves statewide.

The (proposal) is merely guidance, Wenzlaff said. It does not provide any management authority.

State law mandates a wolf season, but a federal judge last year restored endangered species protections for gray wolves across most of the country, including Wisconsin. The decision prohibits hunting wolves.

No matter what this board does, as long as the wolf is listed at the federal level, any kind of a harvest, whether its hunting or trapping, any kind of take in response to depredation that involves lethal means, is not authorized and will not happen, policy board chair Bill Smith said.

A GOP-authored bill introduced earlier this year would require the state to establish a new population goal for wolves as part of any management plan. Senate Bill 139 passed the Senate on a party-line vote on Oct. 17 and would require the DNR to set a wolf population goal to be enforced if the gray wolf is delisted as an endangered species.

Earlier this month, Senate Republicans voted to reject Democratic Gov. Tony Evers appointees Sharon Adams, Dylan Jennings, Sandra Dee Naas and Jim VandenBrook to the Department of Natural Resources policy board. Shortly afterward, Evers appointed new members Todd Ambs, Robin Schmidt, Patty Schachtner and Douglas Cox, all of whom participated in Wednesdays vote.
NEWS RELEASE

12500 N.E. Tenth Place  Bellevue, WA 98005  JPFO.org  800-869-1884  info@jpfo.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  October 26, 2023 Contact: Alan Korwin

The Hamas assaults prove our point

"Jews should be the last people in the world to support 'gun control'." So said JPFO's founder, Aaron Zelman (19462010) and now it is painfully obvious why. One kibbutz, Nir Am, led by a woman, was armed, ready and stopped the jihadis cold, while others, disarmed by "nice" government social policies and cultural narratives were slaughtered. "Never again!" needs teeth, as we can plainly see.

"Our efforts are firmly based in Jewish law, traditions, teachings, history and common sense," said Rabbi Dovid Bendory, JPFO's former Rabbinic Director. "Aaron believed, and I agree, that the present, fervent, almost infatuated embrace of 'gun control' by liberal Jews is disgraceful. Not only is it morally repugnant, it goes directly against the tenets of Judaism's most fundamental teachings of the sacred nature of life, and the Torah's clarity in our obligation to preserve life and protect the innocent." And now the world can see the wisdom in remaining armed, while antisemites around the world chant "Death to the Jews".

JPFO believes it is grotesquely immoral to force or even suggest that Jews or any free people be disarmed "for safety" or falsely for their own good. Statements to the contrary are bald-faced lies. Government's "first responders" are second responders, evident once again. Common wisdom observes that disarming good people doesn't make bad people harmless. Proof is now on a platter before you.

U.S. politicians seeking infringements deserve removal from office for violation of oath. Schools that refuse to teach firearms safety and marksmanshipclassic American values that have helped keep us free for centuriesshould lose all official funding. Teach the value of guns to everyone, and encourage training.

#####
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

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Killeen, TX (76540)

Today

Areas of patchy fog early. Some clouds in the morning will give way to mainly sunny skies for the afternoon. High 77F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear skies. Low 56F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
By Jhoo Dong-chan

Daewoo E&C is actively engaged in charitable activities overseas, demonstrating its commitment to giving back to local communities.

The nations fifth-largest builder donated $160,000 last month to build an education center for children with UNICEF near Al Faw Grand Port in Basrah, Iraq, it said in a statement. It was the second part of the builder's three-year donation package worth $500,000 under a memorandum of understanding signed with UNICEF last year.

It is the latest of the company's outreach projects for overseas communities. In January, Daewoo E&C also donated 180 million won ($133,000) to build an education center offering training in welding and scaffolding in Nigeria.

The social outreach projects in Iraq and Nigeria arent just a one-time donation event, a Daewoo E&C official said. Our outreach projects aim to help them stand on their own feet through education.

The builder also extends medical support to people living in remote regions. Under its Vision Care project, its overseas ophthalmic clinic service, it donated 61 million won last year to help 613 patients in Nigeria and 320 in Vietnam.

In addition, it donated recycled timbers to a local community near the Duqm Refinery construction site in Oman.

Daewoo E&C Chairman Jung Won-ju has stressed the importance of addressing local communities' needs, the company official said.

The builder has also initiated social outreach projects in countries where it has yet to begin construction.

It donated $500,000 recently to help victims of Cyclone Daniel in Derna, a northeastern Libyan town near Benghazi, where more than 10,000 people were killed and about 100,000 missing. In February, it contributed 100 million won to support the Korean Red Cross mission to help quake victims in Turkey.
A 31-year-old La Crosse man faces felony counts after he allegedly drove the wrong way through a La Crosse roundabout while fleeing police Oct. 20.

Mario B. Dailey was charged in La Crosse County Circuit with first-degree recklessly endangering safety and fleeing an officer.

According to the criminal complaint, police attempted to pull over Dailey for driving without a license on the 800 block of King Street shortly before 6 p.m. He reportedly accelerated away from police and reached 60 mph heading into the roundabout at Seventh and Cass streets. He took a left into the roundabout and nearly struck three vehicles before continuing west onto Cass Street and into Minnesota.

Police terminated the pursuit for safety reasons. Attempts by La Crescent police to pull over Dailey also were unsuccessful.

Dailey was arrested without incident the following day in La Crosse. He denied operating the vehicle during the chase and said he had loaned the vehicle to a friend.

Judge Elliott Levine released Dailey on a $5,000 signature bond. Prior to the ruling, assistant La Crosse County District Attorney Courtney Strittmater requested that Dailey be held on a $1,500 cash bond. She said Daileys willingness to cross state lines to avoid police and his ties to Illinois make him a flight risk.

Levine imposed a no-driving condition as part of Baileys bond. His next court date is a Nov. 10 calendar call.
A 66-year-old Lansing, Iowa, man is likely to spend the rest of his life in prison after being sentenced for second-degree murder.

Andrew Raymond Karvel was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the May 9, 2022, death of 83-year-old Daniel William Lundy.

Karvel pleaded not guilty and was convicted by a jury Aug. 21.

Karvel, who was originally charged with first-degree intentional homicide, wont be eligible for parole until his 101st birthday.

Lundy was found strangled to death at the residence he shared with Karvel on the 600 block of S. Second Street in Lansing.
Muslim and Jewish civil rights groups say theyve seen large increases in reports of harassment, bias and sometimes physical assaults against members of their communities since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks.

The Anti-Defamation League and the Council on American-Islamic Relations saw increases in reported instances, many involving violence or threats against protesters at rallies in support of Israel or in support of Palestinians over the last two weeks as war broke out between Israel and Hamas. Other attacks and harassment reported by the groups were directed at random Muslim or Jewish people in public.

A spokesperson for the Council on American-Islamic Relations said Wednesday that the organization's chapters and national office had received 774 reports of bias-related acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 24. The national headquarters had 110 direct reports during that period, compared to 63 for all of August. The council's leaders believe it's the largest wave of complaints since December 2015, when then-presidential candidate Donald Trump declared his intent to ban Muslim immigration to the U.S. in the wake of the San Bernardino mass shooting that left 14 people dead.

The reported acts since Oct. 7 include an Illinois landlord fatally stabbing a 6-year-old Muslim boy and wounding the boy's mother, police say, as well as the arrest of a Michigan man after police say he asked people in a social media post to join him in hunting Palestinians.

Public officials should do everything in their power to keep the wave of hate sweeping the nation right now from spiraling out of control, said Corey Saylor, research and advocacy director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

Saylor noted that former President George W. Bush's visit to a mosque after the 9/11 attacks had a calming effect on the backlash felt in Muslim communities. He called on President Joe Biden to visit with Americans who lost family members in Gaza.

The Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism reported in a statement Wednesday that the organization recorded at least 312 reports of antisemitic acts between Oct. 7 and Oct. 23  compared to 64 recorded during the same time period in 2022. Those reports included graffiti, slurs or anonymous postings, as well as physical violence such as a woman being punched in the face in New York by an attacker who the league says said, You are Jewish.

The 312 reports included 109 anti-Israel sentiments spoken or proclaimed at rallies the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism found to be explicit or strong implicit support for Hamas and/or violence against Jews in Israel, according to the statement.

Protesters at several of the rallies used the slogan, from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free, which the Anti-Defamation League and other Jewish groups have criticized as a call to dismantle the state of Israel. Many Palestinian activists say they are not calling for the destruction of Israel, but for freedom of movement and equal rights and protections for Palestinians throughout the land.

The Anti-Defamation League called for strong responses to antisemitic posts, rhetoric and acts. The organization said violent messages that mention Jews on platforms like Telegram Messenger have increased even more than reports of in-person instances.

"It is incumbent on all leaders, from political leaders to CEOs to university presidents, to forcefully and unequivocally condemn antisemitism and terrorism, Jonathan Greenblatt, Anti-Defamation League CEO, wrote in the statement.

Jewish civil rights organizations in the United Kingdom, France and other countries across Europe, Latin America, North Africa and elsewhere have also tracked increases in antisemitic acts in the past few weeks compared to 2022. League officials said London police had received 218 reports of antisemitic crimes between Oct. 1 and Oct. 18, which was 13 times greater than the numbers reported in 2022.
UW-Platteville plans to lay off 60 employees this week and will lose dozens of others to retirements, vacancies and administrative restructuring, as it seeks to fully close its $9.7 million budget shortfall by the end of the 2024 fiscal year.

In an announcement shared with employees Wednesday, Chancellor Tammy Evetovich said the positions eliminated were chosen to preserve services that students interact with and to adjust programming to reflect enrollment declines. As a result, 76 academic and university jobs have since been closed and another 35 positions, some of those faculty retirements or limited appointments, wont be refilled.

It amounts to a 12% reduction in staff, as UW-Platteville started the year with about 920 employees, Faculty Senate President Charles Cornett said.

Evetovich said the university has cut 27 administrative positions during the past year, bringing administration back to the level it was at a decade ago.

I realize that these decisions are much more than numbers and budgets. They affect our people, Evetovich wrote. While our university may look different in some areas going forward, our commitment to the students learning experiences will remain as strong as it has for the last 158 years.

Most of the Universities of Wisconsin schools were projected to have budget shortfalls by the end of 2024, as many spent down their reserves in recent years to stay afloat. UW system officials regularly point to declining enrollment, tuition freezes and reduced state support during the past decade as reasons for financial woes.

Altogether, 11 of the 13 universities have a collective $58 million budget shortfall, with UW-Oshkosh having the largest gap, at $18 million. UW system administration expects all of its universities to erase their structural deficits by no later than 2028.

Last week, UW-Oshkosh announced a reduction of 250 positions, although the number of people leaving is likely much higher as instructional academic staff whose contracts wont be renewed arent included in that tally.

UW-Platteville also had been considering furloughs to reduce costs but didnt resort to them, Evetovich said in a Sept. 5 email to employees. UW-Oshkosh and UW-Parkside have both instituted furloughs this year to trim spending.
When you see the 9-foot zombie, youve come to the right place.

Aaron Gundersen is back in his Haunted Parlor, ready to greet  and spook  the public.

Every Halloween, Gundersen sets up the Haunted Parlor inside his garage at 4451 67th St.

Visitors will discover all sorts of creepy residents, from antique dolls to a zombie bride.

But first, youll be greeted by that zombie in the front yard.

Thats new this year, said Gundersen, whose day job is working as a graphic designer for the Kenosha Public Library system.

He adds new stuff all the time, and its usually old stuff he finds at estate sales, online sales, Halloween conventions and even from haunted attractions that have closed.

He also scouts items at Vintage Underground in Downtown Kenosha. Theres great stuff there, he said. That store is a gem.

New features this year also include a skeleton that was a gift from a longtime Parlor fan.

A woman named Bonnie comes here every year, Gundersen said. She made this skeleton in a class at a Halloween convention, and she gave it to me. Thats so cool.

Drawing a crowd

About 800 people visit the Haunted Parlor each year, and 2022 was no exception.

What was exceptional was a visitor named Leonard, who lives in Florida.

He builds haunted attractions for theme parks, said Gundersen, who said Leonard is a legend in the haunting world. Its so cool that he came here as part of a visit to Wisconsin. Hes the one who told me I needed something out front, so people know this is the right place.

Hence, the new zombie.

Gundersen is also adding more outdoor displays, including two towering sculpted pumpkin stacks and a ginormous spider.

Going green

Another 2023 feature isnt something new to look at; rather, its a new way of disposing of those Halloween candy wrappers.

I partnered with Trash or Treasure, Gundersen said. Well collect candy wrappers in this special container. Then I send it to the national group, and theyll recycle the wrappers.

Trash or Treasure works with the National Wildlife Federation, which has been working to protect the nations wildlife and ecosystems for generations. To find out more about the nationwide effort, go to rubicon.com/trash-or-treasure/

Not TOO scary

Gundersen said the Haunted Parlor is designed to be fun and not too scary.

People come in to look at all the stuff, he said. We get all ages: kids, adults and senior citizens.

Its a lot of work each year to set up and take down, but Gundersen wouldnt have it any other way.

Its so much fun to see people enjoy this, he said. This is my passion, and I love to see people come and enjoy it. Its just so fun.
This article appears in the October 27, 2023 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this article]

Live Dialogue with Helga Zepp-LaRouche

The LaRouche Solution to the

War Danger in Southwest Asia

Subheads and embedded links have been added. The video of this dialogue is available here.

Harley Schlanger: Hello and welcome to our weekly dialogue with Helga Zepp-LaRouche, the founder and chairwoman of the Schiller Institute. Its Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. Im Harley Schlanger and Ill be your host today. Send us your questions or comments to questions@schillerinstitute.org.

Helga, your warning last week, of the danger that the crisis in Southwest Asia could explode into a rapidly expanding danger of world war, seems unfortunately to be coming true. The rocket attack on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza yesterday, which has killed hundreds of people, has been fueling demonstrations in all the states neighboring Israel. There have been comments from many Arab governments, and from other governments from around the world, the African Union and so on.

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CGTN

And yet, the big question remains: Will Israel go ahead with a ground invasion? Yesterday, Germanys Chancellor Scholz became the first head of government to visit Israel and give his blessing to [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahus war of vengeance, as Netanyahu himself is calling it. President Joe Biden is there today, pledging unconditional support. Also yesterday, an effort by Russia to get a resolution through the United Nations Security Council, calling for a ceasefire, was shot down by the United States, just as the U.S. has been shooting down proposals for a diplomatic resolution in Ukraine.

Helga, you have a lot of experience in this region, having worked very closely with your husband Lyndon LaRouche, who himself was quite influential with his writings and presentations on a solution to this crisis. Whats your present assessment, and whats required to stop the escalation from going to a full-scale war?

Helga Zepp-LaRouche: The simultaneous worsening of the Ukraine crisis and the crisis in the Middle East, or Southwest Asia, should really be the alarm for everybody, that if we dont move to change the dynamic, this may quickly get out of control and end up in a world war. That is why, before I go into any assessments, I want to say that anybody who wants to have peace and prevent the escalation of this crisis, should really join hands with us to put on the table our three proposals:

Ceasefire and a Peace Conference

One, that all movements, all people, all individuals around the world, should support the initiative which came originally from China, then was backed by President Lula of Brazil, and is now pretty much on the agenda, that is, to immediately convene a peace conference for Southwest Asia, to stop the crisis through negotiations.

Two: Economic substance must be put into such a conference, which is what my late husband, Lyndon LaRouche, already wrote about in 1975, when he called for a so-called Oasis Plan, for the Middle East: Meaning that you have to create lots of new water, new freshwater, make the desert bloom to create the kind of economic development for all the countries and all the peoples of the region, as the absolute necessary precondition for a peace in Southwest Asia.

Three: Resolution 242, which was adopted, actually several times by the United Nations Security Council, must be implemented. And a two-state solutionPalestine must become an independent state as part of this process.

There is a solution. It should also be obvious, that Southwest Asia is only part of the world crisis. Its not just the dynamics in the region which works, but it is the larger context of the geopolitical confrontation of the so-called West, the neoliberal financial system, especially under the leadership of the United States, which wants to keep a dominant position in the world, and has basically reduced Europe into a colony (its a tragedy, but thats what it is), against the emerging new world economic order around the BRICS, the BRICS-Plus, the Global South, the Global Majority, where it would be so easy to solve it, but they decided to keep the confrontation.

That dynamic is the underlying dynamic, even in Southwest Asia, and in Ukraine: And that is why a peace conference for the Southwest Asia can only be the first stepping stone for a new security and development architecture for the whole world, which must take into account the security interests of everybody, every nation on the planet.

That is something I would really like to start the discussion, or the thinking process with, because there are those who demand that everyone now has to completely, totallyin Germany, for exampletake the side of Israel; that the defense of Israel is the state raison detre for Germany.

I would like to remind people that one big lesson of the Peace of Westphalia, after 150 years of religious war and after 4 years of tedious negotiations, before coming to a solution, was the recognition that a peace solution always requires that one takes into account the interest of the other. When you somehow try to create a situation, where you say, No, one side is absolutely right, then you preclude a peace!

The difference between the Peace of Westphalia (1648) and the Versailles Treaty (1919), was that the Peace of Westphalia created the basis for the emergence of international law, of international law of the people. While the Versailles Treaty, because it did not take into account the interest of the other, did not take into account the historic truth or the interest of Germany or China, therefore had the seed of what would soon after become World War II. If you want to end this, then you have to apply the principle of the interest of the other.

We are sitting on a complete powder keg. I can only say that the situation is super dangerous, because the fact that the United States has now sent the long-range ATACMS missiles, which was immediately characterized by Russian side as a very dangerous escalation of the crisis, and leading to a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia.

In Southwest Asia, you were mentioning the possibility of a ground offensive by the Israelis. That is still a very dangerous possibility, because if that would happen, it would just increase the absolutely unbelievable situation in Gaza, to a point of explosionIm sure of that. Not in Gaza, because the people have very little means, but it would be a very nasty and long-dragged out confrontation, because Hamas has created tunnels and bunkers. I dont even want to imagine what would happen if that would take place. It would be a nightmare.

I have read certain experts, however, who are rather hesitant about that option, because it does require an intensive battle, and it is not so clear that the Israeli armed forces really are prepared at this point to undertake that, because Hamas obviously was able for a very long time, to prepare for something like that; they do have a lot of tunnels and very elaborated defense systems.

That would then leave a flank open with Lebanon. Im not saying it will not happen; Im just saying that there are experts who are considering that Israel may not want to do that, because the backlash would be tremendous.

On the other side, the option that it may happen is absolutely still there, because that has been in the plans of some people for a long time, as well.

We are sitting on an extremely dangerous situation. I dont even want to think about what is happening to the people who are locked in the Gaza Strip right now. There are reports that 600,000 people fled from the north, but there is no facility, there is no food, no fuel, no water, no medicine; the hospitals are emptied, or in this case, now, one being bombed, with 600+ people dead. Many roads, you can no longer drive on, because they are full of rubble from the bombings. The situation at the only place where people before could leave, at the Rafah border crossing with Egypt is closed. Egypt has apparently made a decision that they do not accept the Palestinian refugees to come to Egypt: I dont even want to imagine what people are going through in this kind of situation!

Anybody who is reasonable must really mobilize everything we can, to say that a diplomatic solution, a ceasefire, negotiations, is the only way out of this situation, and must really mobilize for that. Anything else, anything which encourages either the one side or the other to keep up the fight, threatens that this thing goes completely out of control, leading to a world war: And that would be the end of everything.

Questions from the Audience

Schlanger: Helga, as you mention, part of the mobilization is the new leaflet that the Schiller Institute has put out, which is an emergency call under the headline, Westphalia, Not Versailles: The World Needs an Oasis Plan in the Middle East! Thats available on the Schiller Institute website, and I urge people to read it and circulate it, because it gets right to the heart of what you were just discussing.

A number of questions have come in about that situation in Southwest Asia, but I want to hopefully have some time to broaden it to other areas. Let me start with comments from two people who are longtime collaborators of ours. One is a very good supporter, but quite demoralized, who asks: Isnt it too late to insist on a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, right now? The second, a more hopeful supporter asks Havent we learned, yet, that a violent response just begets more violence?

Zepp-LaRouche: On the second question, the answer is Yes, as long as you keep answering with revenge, even if it may be understandable and people have all the reasons to say that the suffering [in this case] became too much. Any continuation of policies which are based on revenge and hatred, will breed more of that! And the only way how you can break out of it, is to drastically apply the principle of the Peace of Westphalia: They came to the conclusion, after 150 years of religious war, that if they continued there would be nobody alive to enjoy the victory, and they came to the conclusion that, as a principle of foreign policy, hatred had to be replaced by love.

Now, applied to the situation in Southwest Asia, that sounds obviously, very far offbut, its nevertheless true! Love doesnt have to be some strange Romantic idea. Love in this case, means creating the economic conditions for the other side to have a decent, fulfilled life. The poverty in the region is absolutely incredible.

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Schiller Institute

The Oasis Plan, proposed by Lyndon LaRouche in 1975, is still an extremely viable conception. It basically says that you have to create the infrastructure, to have agriculture; you have to green the deserts. In order to green the deserts, you have to produce a lot more freshwater; and how do you do that? You do it by peaceful nuclear energy, being the energy source for the desalination of huge amounts of ocean water, and by canals for irrigation of agriculture, and so forth. You have aquifers, which are, for the short term, accessible. Theyre already used in Israel and other countries in the region; ionization of the atmosphere to cause rainfall patterns. All of these things could be applied to completely change the situation, and indeed, have agricultural development, industrial development, basic infrastructure.

Now, with the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) being potentially extended into the entire Southwest Asiathis was the plan after the rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabiathat can still be put back on the table. Even the IMEC (the India-Middle East Economic Corridor), which was announced recently, which had a little geopolitical connotation of being against the BRI. It doesnt have to be against the BRI! These infrastructure projects tend to grow into each other, once you develop them, and they can be the basis for peace for everybody.

You have to stop the hatred, and replace it with love, and love being to do the good for the other. Its the only option! Wise people on all sides are being called upon to act on that basis.

Now, a two-state solution: I know its very difficult now. All these settlements have been built in an attempt to ruin this option, which obviously is a huge problem. But, with an overall approach, the Middle East can become just the first step toward a new global security and development architecture: I mean, if the United States, and Russia, and China, to start with, would get an agreement, all problems could be solved! The only reason these regional problems cannot be solved, is because they are proxies for the larger context of the strategic showdown between the U.S./NATO, Russia, and China.

But there is right now a whole other world emerging, with the BRICS, with the ten-year anniversary of the BRI, which is being celebrated right now in Beijingthats an incredible success story, despite the meek efforts by the Western media to say oh, its such a failure. The ten-year-old BRI has transformed many countries of the world: The Belt and Road projects have completely changed the dynamic, whereby the Global South countries, for the first time, see the opportunity to overcome underdevelopment. That spirit can be brought even into Southwest Asia!

Its not that everybody in Israel wants to continue on this path of confrontation. Around the world, many Jewish organizations are demonstrating, in Washington, and elsewhere. So its not an issue between religions, its an issue between those people who want war and those who agree that we must absolutely end the war and overcome geopolitics by a peaceful solution which allows the survival and well-being of everybody.

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U.S. Army

Schlanger: Helga, I think you convinced one of our questioners, who asks, How do we prevent falling into emotional counter-reflex and maintain unity and prevent communities from falling against other? And then he answers his own question: The Oasis Plan seems like one example.

Here are two questions that are basically the same. From Facebook, someone asks, Will the Israelis rise up and defeat Netanyahu, so hes replaced by someone willing to seek peace with the Palestinians? Someone else wrote: Six weeks ago, there were hundreds of thousands of Israelis in the street, protesting Netanyahus so-called judicial reforms. Is this crisis deflecting all opposition to him?

What can you say about whats happening in Israel?

Zepp-LaRouche: The conflict which was the subject for a long time, and where people were demonstrating against the judicial reform, is not gone. It has been papered over, because of the present crisis, and, in my view, the short-term so-called national unity government, which includes Benny Gantz, it includes some others; but it does not include the major opposition party, for once, Yesh Atid. I think this will not hold very long. Israelis, and Jewish people all over the world, are right now in an absolute nightmare situation, but I think once reflection sets in, the idea that we absolutely must find a higher level of reason will set in; and in that case, I think also Netanyahus political future may not be one to look forward to, because he has some very personal reasons why hes doing what hes doing. I think the Israelis will find a way of dealing with that, once we have this overall framework to settle the crisis.

Ukraine

Schlanger: Helga, you mentioned the Ukraine situation, and we do have a question from someone who asks about the fact that it was reported now by Zelensky that U.S. ATACMS missiles have been delivered to Ukraine, and that [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky has said this could be a game-changer. Biden had previously said he wasnt going to send them, and then he seems to have done it through a back door, very quietly. It does seem to signal an intent that the U.S. is not giving up, or NATO either, on using the proxy war to severely damage Russia. What would you say to that?

Zepp-LaRouche: Biden made this unbelievable remark on CBS 60 Minutes program Oct. 15, where he said Imagine what happens if we, in fact, unite all of Europe and Putin is finally put down where he cannot cause the kind of trouble he has been causing. For a President of a country to say that about the strongest nuclear power in the worldI mean, I dont want to comment on Biden; people have said already a lot about it. But to say such a thing! It is so beyond the beyond, beyond! Putin answered to that, and he was relatively nonchalant and generous about it, given the enormity of the statement.

Unfortunately, behind all of that isI really hate to say thisbut I think behind all of that is the clear intention to escalate the situationescalate the situation means they dont acceptfirst of all, the Western elites dont even reflect for one single minute that the entire crisis is a reflection of their own policies, and theres zero intention to reflect that maybe they have made a mistake; maybe it was their idea of causing world dominance, a unipolar world, expansion of NATO, encirclement of China, building 800 military bases around the world, and on and on, that that would all cause a blowback. And that blowback is right now, not to be stopped!

The idea to put the genie back in the bottle and go back to a unipolar world, is out of the question. The idea of winning that confrontation with Russia and China is also out of the question. At a banquet on the evening before the Belt and Road ForumI watched this on Chinese TV. A big door was opened and out came Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putina clear demonstration that the relationship between the two countries is one of a very profound, deep strategic alliance, and that between the two men a political friendship has grown and developed over many years.

So whoever is taking on one, namely Putin in this case, or Russia, has to calculate that its not just Russia, its also the whole new arrangement of countries which have now become the BRICS-Plusthe original BRICS countries, plus the six that will formalize their membership Jan. 1, and 40 more countries that want to be part of the BRICS as well.

This is the majority of the worlds population. And even if it doesnt sound likely, I keep saying, the only way how we can come out of this crisis, is when we get forces in Europe and in the United States to say, lets change course: The BRI has been an option open to all from the beginning; theres still the chance, if the United States and European nations would say they want to cooperate with the BRI to develop Latin America, Asia, and Africa, the door would be openIm 100% certain of that.

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White House

Whats so problematic about that? The narrative about the good guys, the democracies, against the bad guys, the autocraciesits just a myth! Its a narrativea narrative is a fairy tale. Its not the truth! Now, its becoming almost risky to say what Im saying here, but this insanity must stop, and we must find an order of all nations, where we can live together peacefully. Geopolitics is a mental disease which we must get rid of.

Belt and Road Forum in Beijing

Schlanger: We have a couple of questions on the Belt and Road Forum conference in Beijing. One is more of a comment from someone from Singapore, who says: The Chinese government seems to be following the ideas of the late legend Lyndon LaRouche, on economic development and infrastructure, with the Belt and Road Initiative. He wants your comment on that.

The other question is from someone who obviously is trying to find out about it, and is frustrated: How can you have Putin, Xi, and 140 governments participating and we cant find it in the Western press? Where can we find information about whats going on in Beijing, with this conference?

Zepp-LaRouche: Yeah, that is really amazing. I was also listening to the media here in Germany, and there is one report after the other that the Belt and Road Initiative is a complete failure, it just causes a debt trap for the participating countries, and on and on. Nothing is more a lie than that, because the Belt and Road Initiative, which is now ten years old, is, indeed, the greatest infrastructure project in history. It has completely changed the dynamic! If youre blind to that, youre just not willing to face the facts.

The developing countries, in the form of the Non-Aligned Movement, have tried to get justice to overcome colonialism for half a century or more. In the beginning, starting maybe with the Bandung Conference in 1955, which was between Asia and Africa, there was the hope that this could be realized very quickly. But then, it turned out that the independence fights, where many countries did win independence, did not get them real independence, because of the conditionalities policy of the IMFfor example, the lack of access to credit for development, the imposition of conditionalities which forced those countries to not invest in healthcare infrastructure, in order to pay the debt. The debt trap existed long before China even played a significant role, but [the debt was] to the IMF, to the World Bank. Many of these countries became entangled in a completely impossible situation.

Many of their leaders were assassinated! If a leader of a developing country started to seriously fight for his or her nation, many people were eliminated! There is a long history of that.

What my late husband, Lyndon LaRouche, and the people associated with him for half a century were fighting for, its now happening. We have been putting out economic development programs for a very long time. You can read them all: Go to our archives and you can read up on the history of that.

The reason why these countries of the Global South now feel empowered to actually accomplish what we proposed is because of China! Because you have, now, the second largest economy, which very well may be already the largest one, in terms of buying power, in terms of physical economy, in terms of machine tools. In terms of physical economy, China is probably the largest economy already. They have transformed themselves from a very poor country, in the time of the Cultural Revolution, when its economic level was no better than that of some Sahel zone African nations, very, very poor.

But then, especially because of Deng Xiaopings reform and opening-up policy (this is a long story), but in the 40 years since, they have made the biggest economic miracle, ever in the history of mankind. They lifted 850 million of their own people out of poverty, and eradicated extreme poverty by the end of I believe it was 2020, or maybe 2021. But its been eliminated by an enormous effort to reach out to even the most remote, rural areas, and think about ways how every single family could be participating in these programs, e-commerce for farmers, manufacturing, education, all kinds of ways. That example has incredibly encouraged the countries of Africa, Latin America and Asia, to also overcome their own poverty. That is something you cannot reverse.

Rather than being completely hysterical about it, and trying to suppress it, the countries of the West should reflect on why they didnt develop Africa, Latin America, and Asia with the same kinds of infrastructure projects: building railways, ports, airports, waterways. They could have done that for the entire period after the Second World Warbut they didnt.

China is now popular among these countries because China has something to offer. If you have the choice between either economic development, and developing your own resources, where you can actually become a middle-income level country in the short to medium term, or, just being an attachment to an aircraft carrier for some regional wars and security buildingits clear why these countries of the Global South prefer to work with Russia and China. And Russia, as well, because Russia is offering them a lot, for example, in the development of nuclear energy. So it is very clear why the countries of the Global South refuse to be drawn into this conflict, and why they refuse to condemn Russia, because they know this narrative is not true, and it doesnt correspond to their own experience.

It remains the situation, that we have to convince the United States and the European countries to stop their opposition, and to cooperate, and then we can find a solution.

Taking Up Profound Ideas

Schlanger: I was speaking at an event the other day and someone came up to me and he said: Im so happy to meet someone who knows Lyndon LaRouche. I heard him speak a number of years ago, and I thought, This mans brilliant, but hes too philosophical to understand.  And he said to me, Im now happily involved in trying to think that way myself. How can I inspire other people to take up such profound ideas?

Zepp-LaRouche: I think the questioner already has the right approachby being a philosophical mind yourself. We are living in such a dull environment. Compare our present political class with even the people in the postwar periodNehru, Sukarno, de Gaulle, Adenauer, Indira Gandhi, and many others. Or, even in GermanyFranz Josef Strauss, Herbert Wehner, Helmut Schmidtthese were people. You may not have liked all of them, and not agreed with all of them, but they were powerful minds! They would really demand respect, because even if they had different views, they were thinkers, they were intellectuals, they were giants compared to the present crop of politicians! Because of Gleichschaltung [synchronization], where all the newspapers only publish the official narrative, if you say something which is not exactly the prescribed data line, you get ostracized.

At the Frankfurt Book Fair right now, this week, they had selected a Palestinian writer, a woman, because she had written a book which was discussing some destiny of a Palestinian who was kidnapped and eventually murdered, early in the 1950s, or so. She was supposed to get a prize, but they kicked her out. She doesnt get the prize, she doesnt even get a room to discuss her bookall because it supposedly doesnt fit the present situation. Another person, a prize recipient, dared to say that the attack by Hamas is disgusting and horrible, but one also has to understand the side of the Palestinians. He was completely attacked!

In this climate, which reminds so much of what happened in the 1930s, where eventually Goebbels triumphed, and in the postwar period, British intelligence said that they had to learn how to out-Goebbels Goebbels. I think that is exactly what is happening today. In an environment like that, what is needed is civil courage. If you are a philosophical mind, you can inspire the people around, because you are not adjusting to this horrible mediocrity! I mean, you can attack certain politicians because they are evil, but whats even more stifling is the fact that theyre so absolutely, horrifyingly mediocre!

In that environment, be a philosophical mind! Have the courage to discuss great ideas. Discuss the ideas of my late husband, because he was a visionary. He predicted the present collapse of the financial system. He had the vision for how to create a better world, and it is happening right now!

Many times, Im thinking, if Lyndon were alive, he would be happy to see what is happening, because it would be the fulfillment of what his whole life was all about. That he did not live to see it, fills me with a certain sadness. But maybe hes somewhere, still capable of seeing what is happeningI dont want to make any speculations about that.

Be courageous! Read the Aesthetical Letters of Friedrich Schiller, where he discusses that question: What do you do when the governments are corrupt, and the masses are apathetic? Where should the solution come from? And I think in the eighth or the ninth letter, Schiller says, that Athena, when she came down to Earth, she was fully armed, she was dressed up in armor, and her first sentence was, Be courageous to be wise. Thats very good advice. People who have right ideas and are aware of how dangerous the situation right now is, they should have the civil courage to speak out. Because too many people say, Oh yeah, I agree with you, in private, but dont expect me to speak out, because I would be immediately ostracized by all my friends, who all have adjusted to the public narrative. So, be wise.

Schlanger: [laughs] And a good place to start that would be to take the Schiller Institute leaflet, Westphalia, Not Versailles: The World Needs an Oasis Plan in the Middle East! Do some research on the Westphalian principle, where it came from, what happened to it, and the difference between that and the Treaty of Versailles. Thats a good starting point. Were headed toward a horrible crisis that has no way out, internally. You have to get outside of it.
This article appears in the October 27, 2023 issue of Executive Intelligence Review.

[Print version of this article]

Schiller Institute Emergency Statement

Westphalia, Not Versailles: The World Needs an Oasis Plan in the Middle East!

The international Schiller Institute released the following statement Oct. 17, 2023. Embedded links have been added.

The choice is no longer between violence and non-violence. The choice is between non-violence and non-existence.

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UNICEF/Mohammad Ajjour

Oct. 17United Nations Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese warned Oct. 14 that:

In the name of self-defense, Israel is seeking to justify what would amount to ethnic cleansing. Israel has already carried out mass ethnic cleansing of Palestinians under the fog of war.

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White House The Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. View full size

X (Twitter)

Southwest Asia is now the staging ground for what is the latest phase of the World War III now being fought against Russia and China. Sometimes that war is called Ukraine/Russia; once it was called Afghanistan; today, it is called the Middle East. Few dare call it by its real name. As J. Robert Oppenheimer noted in an interview: Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds.

The lives of millionstwo million people in Gaza, and millions of others, of different faiths and nations nearbyhang in the balance. Humanity must act; it is already nearly too late. The nation of China, now hosting 140 nations at the Belt and Road Forum, expressed a view last week with which all sane people would agree:

The UN has the responsibility and obligation to play its due role on the Palestinian question, [and China] supports the Security Council in holding an emergency meeting on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, agrees that the meeting should focus on humanitarian concerns, demand a ceasefire, an end to violence and the protection of civilians, form a binding international consensus and take concrete next steps.

Will this thinking prevail? Or will the Anglo-American-NATO financial alliance and war party, through its scheming, arrogant folly, destroy itself and most life on the planet through an unintentional thermonuclear war, triggered by religious fanaticism and the erupting orgy of retributive violence in Southwest Asia, otherwise still known by its British colonial name as the Middle East? The credibility and even the very survival of the United Nations is now on the line.

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UN/Cia Pak

The cycle of perpetual violence, consuming generation after generation, once more pollutes and desecrates the holy places of worship and monuments in the common meeting ground of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It is now being widely reported by publications of record that there was a compact between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and elements within Hamas to undermine peace. The Israeli daily Haaretz reported on Oct. 9 that, Between 2012 and 2018, Netanyahu gave Qatar approval to transfer a cumulative sum of about a billion dollars to Gaza, at least half of which reached Hamas, including its military wing. Haaretz also quotes Netanyahu according to the Jerusalem Post as making the following statement on March 11, 2019:

Anyone who wants to thwart the establishment of a Palestinian state has to support bolstering Hamas, and transferring money to Hamas, Netanyahu told his Likud partys Knesset members in March 2019, This is part of our strategy.

What really happened on Oct. 7 is still to be investigated. The timing of the attack could not have been worseor better. Ongoing discussions among several nations of the region, including between Saudi Arabia and Israel, as well as with China and other out-of-area nations, are seeking to replace deep-seated, long-term conflict with a new era of international economic cooperation, through designs such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Whatever motivation was provided to the operatives of the Hamas-originated attack, its effect has been to interfere with the progress of that very sensitive process. Those initiatives are now threatened. Much, as with the events of Oct. 7, is now unclear.

What is clear, is the atrocities that have occurred on that day and since, and the atrocities that are to come. Will the world stand by now, as it did in the First Iraq War of 1991 and its aftermath, and watch the merciless killing of children as it did then, when 500,000 Iraqi children were murdered through sanctions and war over five years? On May 12, 1996, United States Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, responding to correspondent Lesley Stahl, after the reporter pointed out that thats more children than died in Hiroshima, said, I think this is a very hard choice. But the price, we think, the price is worth it.

Who is the we of which Albright spoke? Did that include the people of the United States, or Europe, then? Does it include you, now? Do you really believe, or accept, that the civilian population of Gaza, or anywhere, must be removed and sent to another country as a result of a 9/11-style attack on Israel by forces that we are told were being financially and otherwise supported by Netanyahu, et al.?

In a macabre simple twist of fate, nearly 2 million people are now to be displaced by the armies of the nation whose ancestors were themselves displaced, and their whole communities eradicated, time and again, virtually everywhere in the world. The 19th- and 20th-Century British colonialists, who drew the lines of this present conflict on maps in 1916 and 1917, could not be more pleased.

Colonialism, however, is overor should be. Militarily forced migrations of people must be vigorously opposed anywhere in the world, whatever the apparent justification. One atrocity should not answer another. The barbaric purgative violence that Hamas engaged in on Oct. 7, must be denounced by allbut killing thousands of the sick, elderly, and young as collateral damage in the cause of just retribution is an antidote worse than the disease. It will ensure that the disease will not be cured, but will instead spread.

When Yitzhak Rabin, who as Israeli Defense Minister fought Palestinians in the 198793 Intifada, realized, as one of his senior officers put it, that deep in my heart, I know that what we are doing will prompt others to react against us violently in revenge, he changed his approach. Rabin, in his July 1992 speech after becoming Prime Minister a month earlier, said: Security is not only a tank, an aircraft, a missile ship. Security is also a mans education, housing, schools, the street and neighborhood, the society in which he grew up. And security is also that mans hope.

Prime Minister Rabin and Foreign Minister Shimon Peres began the secret Oslo Peace Accords process with the Palestine Liberation Organization, and signed a Declaration at the White House, Sept. 13, 1993. There, Rabin said:

We who have come from a land where parents bury their children, we who have fought against you, the Palestinians, we say to you today in a loud and clear voice: Enough of blood and tears, enough!

Rabins most enduring words were uttered later, in his famous toast to all humanity: Let us toast those with the courage to change their axioms.

Rabin was assassinated in 1995 by Israeli religious extremistsor was it the International Assassination Bureau, the people that killed Mohandas Gandhi, John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King, and many, many others? The memory of Yitzhak Rabin should inform the investigation of the events of Oct. 7. There is something else that should be done, in the name of the martyred Rabin, and the martyred peace process for which he gave his life.

There must be a peace package, an Oasis Plan, that, instead of spreading weapons, gives economic stability and even prosperity to the people of Southwest Asia, including the Palestinians. Unless you put, not boots on the ground, but shovels in the ground, you will never upturn the roots of hate and division in that entire area, roots that precede and are even more deeply embedded than todays Israel-Palestine conflict. Advanced energy, water, and transportation infrastructure for Southwest Asia as a whole will be a central feature, around which hope can coalesce.

We must take a page from the new Colonialism Is Over movement that is the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and its associated nations worldwide. Southwest Asian and African nations Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia and Iran are all about to join the BRICS formation. This will help to bring the voice of the Global South to bear, instead of only that of Global NATO, which is dominated by the old imperialisms of Europe and the self-destructive foreign and financial policies of the United States.

Immediately, we must do what China and other nations are suggesting. We must stop the forced migration from Gaza. We must stop the daily killing through a ceasefireand even before thatby all means available. The United Nations must enforce its Resolution 242, adopted November 22, 1967 and affirmed by Israel on May 1, 1968, which consists of two propositions: (i) Withdrawal of Israel armed forces from territories occupied in the recent conflict; (ii) Termination of all claims or states of belligerency and respect for and acknowledgment of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of every State in the area and their right to live in peace within secure and recognized boundaries free from threats or acts of force.

Let it, however, be clear: There is no possibility of actually solving the British imperialism-originated Middle East crisis without the kind of long-term, meticulous, even tedious deliberations that took place from 164448 in Westphalia and elsewhere in Germany, to end the murderous Thirty Years War in Europe.

Speaking at Central Connecticut State University in 2009, the economist and statesman Lyndon LaRouche put it this way:

There is a solution, a solution in principle. And the solution is: End this blasted imperialist system! And understand that we, as a people, must develop our spiritual culture; that is, the creative powers of mankind, to carry further the development of mankind, from some brutish character by a campfire a million years ago, or so, into mankind as we desire that mankind should develop today. Thats the issue.

LaRouches solution-concept requires a change in axioms. Principle Ten of Schiller Institute founder Helga Zepp-LaRouches Ten Principles of a New International Security and Development Architecture, written in November 2022 following the outbreak of the NATO-Russia war in Ukraine, restates it:

The basic assumption for the new paradigm is, that man is fundamentally good and capable to infinitely perfect the creativity of his mind and the beauty of his soul, and being the most advanced geological force in the universe, which proves that the lawfulness of the mind and that of the physical universe are in correspondence and cohesion, and that all evil is the result of a lack of development, and therefore can be overcome.

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EIRNS/Stuart Lewis

This is the principle which must replace the suicidal axioms now held by the doomed combatants in the no-win Israel-Palestine conflict.

But Lyndon LaRouche also warned:

In the meantime, we will fight. We will do everything possible to try to get peace in this area, because we want to stop the killing. But were not going to tell somebody, weve got a solution thats going to be accepted, thats going to work. Were going to say, weve got a hopeless cause, and were going to continue to fight for it.

That hopeless cause is the cause of peace. Another warrior for peace, American President John F. Kennedy, said it this way, at American University, June 10, 1963:

First: Let us examine our attitude toward peace itself. Too many of us think it is impossible. Too many think it unreal. But that is a dangerous, defeatist belief. It leads to the conclusion that war is inevitablethat mankind is doomedthat we are gripped by forces we cannot control.

We need not accept that view. Our problems are manmadetherefore, they can be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings. Mans reason and spirit have often solved the seemingly unsolvableand we believe they can do it again.

The alternative to the foolish pursuit of peace undertaken by John F. Kennedy, Yitzhak Rabin, Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and others, is World War Three, a war which has now already begun. We are already become Death, the destroyer of worlds. The question is: Do we, as did Yitzhak Rabin, have the courage to change our axioms in time to reverse what we have already begun?
Scientists have created an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that aims to predict different virus versions, called variants, before they appear.

Creators of the tool say it works by estimating the likelihood that a variant will permit it to escape the bodys own immunity defenses.

The tool is called EVEscape. It works by processing collected data on the development, or evolution, of a virus over time. The system also considers detailed biological and structural information related to the virus.

The method is a form of generative AI, a term describing technology tools designed to operate at human levels. EVEscape was developed by researchers from Britains University of Oxford and Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The teams findings recently appeared in a study in the publication Nature.

Many viruses repeatedly mutate in an effort to stay alive and strong. This requires viruses to infect living organisms. Once inside the body, viruses continue to reproduce and spread.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explains that repeated mutating creates new variants. Some of these mutations permit the virus to spread more easily or make it resistant to treatments or vaccines, the CDC said.

The researchers built on previous work involving a tool they created called EVE. This tool was designed to study gene mutations that can cause human disease. In a past study, the team said it successfully used EVE to identify mutations linked to conditions like cancer and heart disease.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientists said they recognized a good chance to rebuild EVE into a new tool for the purpose of predicting viral variants.

To do this, the team explained it turned the clock back to January 2020, just before the COVID-19 pandemic started. The researchers asked the EVEscape tool to predict what mutations would develop from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

The researchers reported the tool correctly predicted which SARS-CoV-2 mutations would appear and which would become most common, or dominant.

The team also said the tool predicted which antibody-based treatments would lose their efficacy as the pandemic progressed and the virus developed mutations to escape these treatments.

The study noted EVEscape can make predictions more quickly and effectively than lab-based methods. This is because the tool does not need to wait for relevant antibodies to arise in the population and become available for testing.

The team said the system was able to examine tens of thousands of new virus variants appearing each week and identified the ones most likely to become problematic.

Sarah Gurev is a student in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science program at the Massachusetts Institute of Technoology (MIT). She was a leader of the research. Gurev said that by quickly identifying the threat level of new variants, we can help inform earlier public health decisions.

The team said it continuously uses the system to examine real-time data about the development of new variants of SARS-CoV-2. It then shares this information with the public and international agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO).

The researchers said their experiments also showed the EVEscape tool could successfully predict mutating behaviors for other common viruses, including HIV and the flu.

Debora Marks is a professor of systems biology at Harvard Medical Schools Blavatnik Institute. She was a lead writer of the study. She said the researchers would continue to improve the tools ability to predict new variants for a number of viruses. Because if we can, thats going to be extremely important for designing vaccines and therapies.

Im Bryan Lynn.

Bryan Lynn wrote this story for VOA Learning English, based on reports from Oxford University, Harvard Medical School and Nature.

Quiz - AI Tool Aims to Predict Virus Variants before they Appear Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

____________________________________________

Words in This Story

immunity  n. bodily power to resist an infectious disease

mutate  v. to cause a gene to change and create an unusual characteristic in a plant or animal

efficacy  n. the ability to produce a desired result

relevant  adj. related or useful to what is happening or being talked about

therapy  n. a treatment method for disease
The Pakistani government has approved the creation of several deportation centers for hundreds of thousands of Afghans living illegally in the country. Pakistan plans to arrest and send the Afghan nationals back to Afghanistan starting next month.

The government recently approved the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan. It sets a November 1 deadline. The deadline is for all illegal/unregistered foreigners and those overstaying their visas. These groups are required to return to their countries. If they do not, they face deportation for breaking Pakistans immigration laws.

Pakistani Interior Minister Sarfaraz spoke when the deadline was announced in early October. He said an estimated 1.7 million Afghans are among those facing deportation.

Official sources told VOA that special deportation centers would be established in four areas: Punjab, Sindh, Baluchistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Afghans detained in Punjab and Sindh will be moved to centers in the Rawalpindi and Karachi areas.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will have two deportation centers in Nowshehra and Chamkani. While Baluchistan will have three centers: one in the capital of Quetta, and others in the areas of Pishin and Qilla Abdullah districts. These two areas are on Pakistans 2,600-kilometer border with Afghanistan. Most refugee families are in those areas.

The new plan empowers local administrations, police, and other officials to detain and deport Afghan nationals illegally living in the country. The plan also says that individuals charged with or on trial for minor crimes will be sent out of the country. It also says that those charged with or facing trial for serious crimes will not be sent back to Afghanistan.

Pakistan has promised to carry out the deportations in a phased and orderly way. It also said that it would not target the 1.4 million Afghan refugees living legally in the country. The government added it would not target 900,000 Afghan citizens who are registered in Pakistan as economic migrants.

The government has told law enforcement agencies not to harass legal refugees and those with Afghan nationality documents. However, Afghanistans Taliban rulers and refugee families have claimed that some Afghans experienced abuse and mistreatment from the police.

The Taliban have called on Pakistan to reconsider the deportation plan, calling it inhumane and unacceptable. However, they have recently set up special camps on the Afghan side of the border. The camps will provide immediate shelter, health care, food, and financial assistance to families returning from the neighboring country.

Officials in both countries have confirmed that tens of thousands of Afghans have voluntarily returned to their home country since Pakistan announced the deadline nearly a month ago.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid on Afghan television urged Pakistan to treat Afghan refugees humanely and extend the period of deportation. He asked all the refugees to return to their country. He said the Taliban has made Afghanistan into a safer and better place.

Taliban rule in Afghanistan

The Taliban seized power from a U.S.-backed government in August 2021. At that time, U.S. and NATO troops left the country after nearly 20 years of involvement in the Afghan war.

After the Taliban took over, hundreds of thousands of people fled to Pakistan. They feared punishment for their connections to Western forces. They included human rights defenders, former government officials, professionals, female activists and reporters.

Many have since moved to the U.S. and other Western countries. But thousands are waiting in hopes of immigrating to the United States or Europe.

The Taliban has enforced Islamic law in the country. The group has barred teenage girls from schools and many women from work. The restrictions mean many refugee families do not want to return to Afghanistan. They say their daughters cannot seek education or work in the country.

The United Nations has urged Pakistan to suspend its deportation plan. It warns the plan could mean Afghans will be subject to abuse by the countrys ruling Taliban officials.

Im Gregory Stachel.

Ayaz Gul reported this story for Voice of America. Gregory Stachel adapted the story for VOA Learning English.

________________________________________________

Words in This Story

deport  v. to force (a person who is not a citizen) to leave a country

deadline  n. a date or time when something must be finished

source n. a person who tells a reporter information

empower  v. to give official authority or legal power to (someone)

phased  adj. done gradually in steps and according to a plan

harass  v. to annoy or bother (someone) in a constant or repeated way

humane  adj. kind or gentle to people or animals

teenage  adj. between 13 and 19 years old
Patriarch Sako Leads Assyrian-language Peace Prayer in Vatican

Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus and his disciples, was once the lingua franca of the entire Middle East.

Today, it is at risk of extinction, kept alive by endangered Christian communities concentrated in Iraq, Syria, Turkey and Iran.

On Wednesday evening, however, it made a surprise appearance at a recitation of the rosary organised by members of the 16th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops.

Rosary for peace

Synod participants had come together in St Peter's Basilica to pray for peace, particularly in the Middle East. There were prayers, Gospel readings, meditations and hymns.

Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako, the head of Iraq's Chaldean Church, led the Second Mystery of the Rosary.

Although he had been expected to pray in French, he recited the Our Father in classical Syriac, an ancient language closely related to Aramaic.

Sr Caroline Jarjis -- a nun based in Baghdad -- then took over, reciting the Hail Mary in Chaldean Neo-Aramaic, a modern version of the language which is spoken mainly in northern Iraq.

As violence continues to torment Israel and Palestine, it is perhaps particularly fitting that the Patriarch and the nun should have chosen to pray for peace in the language once spoken by Jesus as he walked in that holy land.
Israel and Jordan have signed a peace treaty ending 46 years of war.

Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and King Hussein of Jordan formally made peace at a ceremony in desert area of Wadi Araba on the Israeli-Jordanian border.

US President Bill Clinton was a witness to the treaty also watched by 5,000 guests and relayed to the world on TV.

Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was conspicuous by his absence  he had not been invited.

Jordan is now the second Arab state to establish close relations with Israel since Egypt made peace in 1979.

In an emotional speech King Hussein said: This is peace with dignity. This is peace with commitment. This is our gift to our peoples and the generations to come.

Mr Rabin spoke of his joy at establishing peace among soldiers and friends.

He said: It is not only our states that are making peace with each other today, not only our nations that are shaking hands in peace here in the [Wadi Araba].

You and I, your majesty, are making peace here, our own peace, the peace of soldiers and the peace of friends.

The president praised Mr Rabin and King Hussein for their efforts to end hostilities over recent years.

In a barely veiled attack on Islamic extremists, President Clinton said opponents of peace who cloak themselves in the rhetoric of religion and nationalism would not succeed.

All Israelis except the extreme right-wing welcome the agreement. The Israeli Knesset (parliament) ratified it by 105 to three.

Many Palestinians, who make up 60% of Jordans population, are angered and shocked by the peace deal which they believe fails to address their grievances.

The Palestinian Liberation Organisation has condemned the role accorded to Jordan in protecting Islamic shrines in East Jerusalem.

In Jerusalem and throughout the occupied West Bank, Palestinians held a general strike and demonstrations.

In Hebron, they burned pictures of King Hussein and there were clashes with Israeli troops in Nablus.

Hamas, which just eight days ago carried out a devastating suicide bomb in Tel Aviv killing 22 people, has accused President Clinton of double-standards and vowed to continue its campaign of violence anywhere in the world.

Under the agreement, Israel and Jordan agreed to exchange territory and make the border conform to geographical landmarks.

The treaty opens the way for co-operation in trade, tourism, transport links, water resources and environmental protection. It also secures the Israels longest land border.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

Yitzhak Rabin was assassinated on 4 November 1995 by a Jewish extremist and in 1999 King Hussein of Jordan died of cancer.

Shimon Peres pushed on with Mr Rabins efforts to make peace with the Palestinians.

But in an election in 1996 he lost to Binyamin Netanyahu who campaigned against the Rabin-Peres peace programme.

But the peace deal struck by Israel and Jordan in 1994 lives on.

In September 2002, Jordan and Israel agreed on a plan to pipe water from the Red Sea to the shrinking Dead Sea that straddles the two countries.

The project, costing $800m, was the two nations biggest joint venture to date.

And 18 months later, in March 2004, the two nations agreed a joint project to build a desert science centre on their shared border.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom had a surprise meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing yesterday after being warmly welcomed by other senior officials in a display of friendliness that stands in sharp contrast to the dialogue between the United States and China in recent years.

The governor is on a weeklong tour of China, where he plans to push for climate cooperation. Newsoms trip as governor, once considered routine, is drawing attention as it comes after years of heightening tensions between the U.S. and China.

Im here in expectation, as you suggest, of turning the page, of renewing our friendship and reengaging (on) foundational and fundamental issues that will determine our collective faith in the future, Newsom said in brief opening remarks ahead of his meeting with Wang Yi, Chinas top diplomat, earlier in the day.

Though Newsom was in China to promote cooperation in curbing climate change, Chinese officials took the opportunity in welcome speeches ahead of the closed-door meetings to talk about U.S.-China relations. Wang is preparing to visit the U.S. today.

Newsom and Xi discussed ways to accelerate our progress on climate in meaningful and substantive ways, the California governor said at a news conference, but did not mention more specifics.

They also talked about fentanyl, a synthetic drug and leading killer of young people in the U.S., and Chinas role in combating the transnational shipping of precursor chemicals, Newsom said.

According to Chinas state broadcaster CCTV, Xi told Newsom: I hope your visit will enhance mutual understanding between the two sides and play a positive role in expanding cooperation between China and California and promoting the healthy and stable development of Sino-U.S. relations.

Xi may attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in San Francisco next month and meet with U.S. President Joe Biden, although China has not formally confirmed his attendance.

Newsom is visiting Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai and the provinces of Guangdong and Jiangsu. At a speech at Hong Kong University on Monday, he promised to continue to cooperate on climate change regardless of the outcome of the next U.S. presidential election.

He said he raised human rights issues with Wang and the two also discussed Taiwan, a red-line issue for Beijing. China claims the self-ruled island as part of its own territory.

I expressed my support for the One-China policy  as well as our desire not to see independence, Newsom said, referring to the official U.S. policy that recognizes the Communist Party as the ruling government of China. Officially, the U.S. does not recognize Taiwan but is its biggest unofficial ally.

Wang, the head of the Communist Partys office of foreign affairs, said he knows Newsoms trip attracted plenty of critics but that he views the trip positively.

But I think time and facts will certainly prove that your visit to China is in line with California peoples wishes and in line with the American peoples interests and the expectations of the global society.

Newsom also met yesterday with Vice President Han Zheng, who greeted him with a wide smile and called him an old friend. Han is a past member of the Politburo Standing Committee, an elite group of leaders within the party.

The China-U.S. relationship is the most important bilateral relationship in the world, and the sub-national cooperation is an indispensable part to facilitate the sound and steady growth of China-U.S. relations, Han said. Im sure your weeklong trip will inject positive energy to the development of the China-U.S. relationship.

The governor met as well with the head of Chinas National Development and Reform Commission, a Cabinet-level agency responsible for economic policies. They signed a memorandum on deepening cooperation in environmental issues.

Governors of California, which has an economy larger than most countries, have a long history of climate collaboration with China. Democrat Jerry Brown and Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger also traveled to China to swap knowledge on reducing air pollution and emissions.

HUIZHONG WU, BANGKOK, MDT/AP
The Macao Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM) will be holding the Discovery Day: Exploring Educational Excellence this Saturday. Through various activities, the event will provide an opportunity for students, parents and friends from Macau and neighboring regions to obtain the latest admission information and investigate its academic programs and culture. The event will be held at East Asia Hall Building in IFTM Taipa Campus 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and will feature seminars in hospitality, cultural tourism and digital marketing.

Related
Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng said that the high-level meeting between Fujian and Macau officials and the Fujian-Macau Cooperation Conference mechanism had laid a solid foundation for cooperation between the two places.

Over the years, the two governments had actively participated in, and contributed to, the construction of the Belt and Road initiative, worked together to expand the markets of Portuguese-speaking countries, and continued to promote cooperation between Fujian and Macau, according to Ho.

People from Fujian account for one-quarter of the total population of Macau, or circa 160,000 individuals. The delegation for this weeks visit to Fujian included 70 Macau entrepreneurs, most of them with links to Fujian. Their hope was for further promotion of existing cooperation between the two places and creating broader prospects for fresh cooperation.

The Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee, Zhou Zuyi, thanked the MSAR Government for always attaching great importance to cooperation between Fujian and Macao, and for providing high-quality and continuous support to the development of all aspects of Fujian Province.

Secretary Zhou said that Fujians development momentum was improving.

That included the strengthening of economic and trade exchanges with Portuguese-speaking countries in Africa and South America, as well as Fujian continuing actively to integrate into the deployment of the countrys Belt and Road initiative.
The Patriotic Education Law was adopted by the Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress, Chinas top legislature, on Tuesday when it closed its latest session. The law will take effect on Jan 1.

Under the law, the nation is required to advance historical, cultural and One country, two systems education to enhance Hong Kong and Macau residents patriotic spirit and their sense of identity.

Policies of national reunification and relevant education will be provided for all Chinese people, including Taiwan compatriots, to guarantee the fundamental interests of the Chinese nation and oppose separatist activities for Taiwan independence, according to the law.

The law highlights patriotic education for youth and children, and makes stipulations regarding patriotic education for various groups of people, such as employees of government departments, enterprises and public institutions, residents of urban and rural areas, as well as compatriots from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, and overseas Chinese.

Starry Lee Wai-king, a Hong Kong member of the NPC Standing Committee, expressed her full support for the law, as cited in a report by China Daily.

Lee said the law, which proposes to enhance Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan compatriots affirmation of the nation and outstanding traditional Chinese culture, as well as strengthen their awareness of safeguarding national unity and ethnic solidarity, points the way for Hong Kongs patriotic education and turns a new page in the citys patriotism.

She hoped every sector in Hong Kong would learn and implement the spirit of the law and create an ideal environment for promoting patriotic education in the special administrative region, according to the report.

She also mentioned that the SAR government has rolled out many policies in regard to patriotic education.

Highlighting the significance of combining classroom teaching with practice, the law also directs schools to arrange for students to visit patriotic education sites and integrate the education into campus activities.

It emphasizes the utilization of cultural relics, museums, libraries and memorial halls in patriotic education, clarifying that patriotic education sites should enhance the content of their exhibitions, attracting government departments, enterprises, social organizations and citizens to visit.

It states that patriotic education needs to be carried out on important anniversaries and festivals through diverse ceremonies, such as raising the national flag, playing and singing the national anthem and swearing to abide by the Constitution. Staff Reporter
Russia has issued carefully calibrated criticism of both sides in the war between Israel and Hamas. But the conflict also is giving Moscow bold new opportunities  to advance its role as a global power broker and challenge Western efforts to isolate it over Ukraine.

While Moscow lacks leverage to mediate a settlement in the Middle East, it could try to play on some perceived credibility problems with the Wests response to the crisis.

It also expects the Israel-Hamas war to distract attention from the fighting in Ukraine and erode support for Kyiv.

There are risks for Moscow, however. It could damage its relationship with Israel, which until now has kept it from sending weapons to Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has condemned the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants on towns in southern Israel. At the same time, he warned Israel against blockading the Gaza Strip, likening it to Nazi Germanys siege of Leningrad during World War II.

He has cast the war as a failure of U.S. diplomacy, charging that Washington has opted for economic handouts to the Palestinians and abandoned efforts to help create a Palestinian state.

Putin declared earlier this month that Moscow could play the role of mediator, thanks to its friendly ties with both Israel and the Palestinians, adding that no one could suspect us of playing up to one party.

Despite that claim of even-handedness, a U.N. Security Council resolution that Russia submitted last week condemning violence against civilians made no mention of Hamas. It was rejected by the council.

China was among a few countries that backed the Russian draft, reflecting a shared stance by Moscow and Beijing. Chinese and Russian Middle East envoys met last week to discuss working together to help cool the situation, noting their adherence to a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians.

While U.S. President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and other Western leaders visited Israel to show support, Putin waited for nine days before calling Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, even though they previously had developed warm personal ties. Putin also discussed the war in calls with the leaders of Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Syria and the head of the Palestinian Authority.

Putin offered Netanyahu condolences to the families of Israelis killed by Hamas and emphasized his strong rejection and condemnation of any actions that victimize the civilian population, including women and children, according to a Kremlin readout of the call. He also emphasized the need for a peaceful settlement through political and diplomatic means, it added. Netanyahus office said he told Putin that Israel would not stop until it had eliminated Hamas.

Unlike Putin, who carefully balanced his statements, other Russian officials were more blunt in their criticism of Israeli strikes on Gaza.

Konstantin Kosachev, deputy speaker of the upper house of Russian parliament, said that while Hamas unleashed the war, Israels response was disproportionate and inhumane.

The Kremlins maneuvering may reflect domestic politics, with Muslims making up about 15% of the its population. The Moscow-backed leader of Chechnya, Ramzan Kadyrov, spoke strongly in support of the Palestinians, assailing Israel for capturing their lands and establishing blockades.

Moscows stance won quick praise from Hamas, which said it appreciates Russias call for a cease-fire. Russias statements also play well in the Arab world, where many have accused the U.S. and its allies of squarely supporting Israel while turning a blind eye to the rising civilian death toll in Gaza.

But this position also threatens Russias friendly ties with Israel, which hasnt joined Western sanctions against Moscow or given weapons to Ukraine.

There is a real threat of exacerbation of our ties with Israel in the current situation, said Andrei Kortunov, academic director of the Russian International Affairs Council.

The Times of Israel reported Tuesday an Israeli diplomat expressed displeasure with the role Russia is playing to Moscows diplomatic officials, voicing hope the Kremlin will take more balanced positions.

Amir Weitmann, a leading member of Netanyahus Likud party, accused Russia of supporting Hamas. Speaking on Kremlin-funded broadcaster RT, he warned that after Israel defeats Hamas, we will make sure that Ukraine wins, we will make sure that you pay the price for what you have done.

Asked about Israeli criticism of Moscows stance on the war, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized Russias condemnation of terrorism and reaffirmed its push for a quick cease-fire and the need for a Palestinian state.

Amid what Israel sees as Moscows pro-Palestinian stance, some prominent Russian voices have backed Israel.

In a sign of the split sympathies, the head of the most popular political talk show on Russian state TV, Vladimir Solovyov, fired one expert on his televised panel who alleged in an online interview that two of Moscows top diplomats have anti-Israeli sentiments. MDT/AP
Senior prosecutor Kong Chi disclosed for the first time that his unpaid leave was taken to accompany his mothers psychotherapy appointments, and that he had been surprised about being summoned from the holidays.

He also said that he had been residing in mainland China throughout the used portion of his leave. In addition, he said that he had tried to help his mother stabilize her mental condition, and he had no intention to flee, according to local media All About Macau.

His leave started on Feb. 7, 2022 and was set to last for two years. His last departure from Macau took place on Jan. 19, 2023.

When he was asked by the defense lawyer about the details of his unpaid leave, he said that he had been living in mainland China. In March, he said, he received a phone call and a letter from the Public Prosecutions Office (MP), summoning him to return to the MP within 48 hours. However, he did not honor the summons.

In explanation, the senior prosecutor said that he was at the time waiting for his mothers psychiatric medications. Moreover, he could not locate his Macau ID. This is why he did not return to Macau.

Although not understanding why he was summoned by the MP, he felt embarrassed to seek help from his colleagues. Nonetheless, he said, he feared that once in Macau, he would be put under custody or prohibited from leaving Macau, and so would not be able to help his mother with medications. Even now he questioned how he should have dealt with the situation.

On the question as to whether he fled or not, he said that if he does not return to work after the official cessation of his unpaid leave, he should then be considered as having fled.

A recent hearing revolved around Kongs financial situation.

The prosecution pointed out that a loan Kong made to Keong Iok Peng came with a condition that Kongs brother, Kong Peng, be hired by Keongs restaurant, and queried the reason for this.

Kong said that it was for his own protection, although in the end Keong had repaid the debt regularly.

The prosecution then questioned Kong about the large quantity of cash and jewelry in the latters safe. Kong explained that they were his entire savings, as well as money that his mother gave him.

Then, the prosecution went on to question him about the HKD710,000 cash in the safe, which far surpassed the threshold for asset declaration. Kong said that the sum was saved to exchange currency with Choi Sao Ieng, the second defendant.

In response to the prosecutions request for evidence, Kong admitted that although he had hired lawyers, as a person under custody, there was not much that he could do. He said he had faced difficulty contacting witnesses because his phone was also held by police.

He added that before working as a prosecutor, he had worked in the legal translation office of the government and earned 485 salary points per month, in an attempt to explain the source of his assets. He hoped the court would be able to take this into account.

On his style of handling cases, Kong was asked by the defense lawyer about details and key evidence of several cases that he had archived. Kong said that he is a more relaxed type of prosecutor, meaning that without strong evidential proof, cases would not be brought to court. However, he claimed that he is also rigorous, as over 80% of the cases that were brought to court by him resulted in a conviction.
* Macau formula

 FIA to accredit Macau F3, GT Grand Prix for three years, from the upcoming 70th edition

* Courts | Prosecutor surprised by call to return from unpaid leave

* Transport | Govt launches awaited public tender for 500 new taxis

* Over 20 candidates shortlisted for Chinas fourth generation of taikonauts, including candidates from Macau, HK

* Patriotic education law to be promoted in Hong Kong, Macau

* Hong Kong govt cuts taxes for foreign home buyers, stock traders

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Thursday, October 26, 2023  edition no. 4355
OHIO | TRAFFIC STOP IN CIRCLEVILLE

As Jadarrius Rose drove his 18-wheeler through rural Ohio, a simple missing mudflap caught the highway patrol's eye. The trip ended with a police dog's powerful jaws clamping down on Rose even as he tried to surrender.

As he stood with his hands up beside the highway on July 4, at least six law enforcement officers surrounded him at a distance, one calling forcefully to the K-9 handler: "Do not release the dog," highway patrol video shows.

Nevertheless, a Belgian Malinois is seen on the video either breaking free or being set loose. At first, the animal seems confused, racing past Rose toward officers at the far end of the truck, then turning back and running for Rose, then 23.

By then the trucker is on his knees, hands still high, as an officer shouts, "Get the dog off of him!"

Long list of attacks

That day, Rose joined a long list of Black Americans attacked by police dogs, a history well documented by journalists, academics and filmmakers. Investigations into such cases have been launched regularly in recent years. For some, the scenes harken back to the Civil Rights Movement, when authorities often turned dogs and firehoses on peaceful Black protesters marching for equality.

The Associated Press captured one such attack in a photograph from Birmingham, Alabama, taken in the spring of 1963. It shows two police officers setting a pair of K-9s on 15-year-old Walter Gadsden. One of the dogs lunges straight for the teenager's belly as the other strains against his leash, panting.

Over the past five years, controversial police K-9 attacks have made headlines across the U.S.

Records reviewed by the AP in 2018 showed the Ohio State Highway Patrol used drug dogs in 28% of its stops involving Black motorists from 2013 through 2017, although the Black population accounts for only about 11.5% of people old enough to have a driver's permit or license in the state.

The Salt Lake City police department suspended its dog apprehension program in 2020 after a Black man was bitten and an audit found 27 dog bite cases during the previous two years.

The FBI opened an investigation into the police department in Woodson Terrace, Missouri, in 2021 after cellphone video showed three officers allowing a dog to repeatedly bite a Black man. And in 2020, a Black man in Lafayette, Indiana, was placed in a medically induced coma after police dogs mauled him as he was arrested in a battery case.

A troubled history

Circleville, located about 25 miles south of Columbus, Ohio, resembles many rural towns across the country. The city's downtown is filled with restaurants, law offices and a bakery. Flags honoring fallen servicemen and women hang from lampposts lining Main Street.

While the picture might be idyllic to some of the town's 14,000 residents, the Rev. Derrick Holmes, longtime leader of the Second Baptist Church, said Black and white residents describe their lives very differently.

"Everyone doesn't have the same experience, even though they're all in the same town," Holmes said. "And I think those divisions exist around the realities of bigotry, the realities of racism."

At church services the day after the video of Rose's arrest aired, Holmes said the congregation was appalled, but not entirely surprised.

"People were horrified by it," he said. "Angered by it. Frustrated by it. And also there was a feeling of, 'Well, here we go again.'"

This isn't the first time Circle ville police have grappled with uncomfortable questions about how they train and use police dogs. Nearly 20 years ago, a founder of the K-9 unit sued the department after he was fired for insubordination. Officer David Haynes had publicly opposed cutting training hours for dogs and their handlers to 172 hours annually from 500 hours, according to court documents.

Haynes warned in a 2003 memo that "words like 'deliberate indifference,' 'negligence' and 'failure to train' will someday be brought up."

Today, Circleville's K-9s train 16 hours per month, or 192 hours a year, according to the department. Police Chief Shawn Baer did not respond to numerous messages seeking comment.

Employing dogs to dominate a population can be traced back at least to European settlers colonizing the Americas, when the animals were used against In-digenous people. They were introduced in Southern U.S. states to capture  and sometimes kill  enslaved Black people who escaped, said Madalyn Wasilczuk, a University of South Carolina professor and author of a law journal article titled, "The Racialized Violence of Police Canine Force."

Wasilczuk found data on K-9 police attacks sparse, but said the animals are often used in nonviolent situations and their presence can lead to serious injury.

"When you talk about an apprehension, police talk about bite and hold, and that sounds very antiseptic," Wasilczuk said. "But when you look at a video of what happens, you see a dog doing what it does with a chew toy, which is it grabs on, it tries to hold on, its head whips back and forth and its teeth are sunk into that body part as deeply as they can."

The aftermath

In Rose's case, law enforcement originally sought to pull him over because of his truck's missing mudflap, according to a highway patrol report. Circleville Police were there to assist.

What happened next can be pieced together from law enforcement video and the incident report.

Rose initially didn't stop as police pursued him. When he did, he saw officers with their guns drawn and took off again. At some point, he called 911 and told a dispatcher he feared the officers were "trying to kill" him. After pulling over a second time, he delayed getting out of the truck and did not immediately get on the ground as instructed.

He initially was charged with a felony for failing to comply with officers, but prosecutors dropped the case. Online court documents show Rose was charged Sept. 26 with a misdemeanor version of the offense and there is an active warrant for his arrest.

Neither Rose nor his attorney responded to repeated messages seeking comment.

It's not clear why a K-9 unit was at the scene that day. Michael Gould, a former New York City police officer and founding member of the NYPD's K-9 unit, said officers appeared to have control once they surrounded Rose with their guns drawn. And then there's the image of Rose with his hands up.

"He was compliant and not a threat to anyone," Gould said.

Rose required hospital care for the bites he suffered. Whether he sustained lasting injury is unclear.

The dog's police handler, Officer Ryan Speakman, was fired, but the Ohio Patrolman's Benevolent Association filed a grievance on his behalf arguing the officer was fired without just cause.

Circleville City Councilwoman Caryn Koch-Esterline said police have yet to account for what happened.

"I'm just waiting for all the information to come out," she said in a brief interview with the AP three months after Rose's arrest.

For those working to improve race relations in Ohio, the roadside attack was a reminder of all that is still left to do.

"If it were a white man and a dog was unleashed on that individual, what would that community be saying? I bet they would be up in arms," said Nana Jones, president of the Columbus Chapter of the NAACP.
The 25-year-old chef/owner of Silk Road, the excellent new Park Street restaurant in a former Taco Bell, said he's been doing restaurant work for 13 years.

Manuchehr Kholov, who goes by "Manu," was born in Fayzobod, a small town in Tajikistan, where he was raised by a single mother who owned a bakery.

He moved to Dushanbe, the country's capital, when he was 12 and got a job as a waiter, Kholov said. When he had free time, he would go into the kitchen and help with salads and whatever else he could. Eventually he was doing decorative arrangements of fruits and vegetables.

"I would just ask, 'Can I help? I don't need money, just asking,'" he said. "Then, step by step, I became manager."

All that experience is on display at Silk Road, named because Tajikistan, next to Afghanistan in Central Asia, was at the center of the Silk Road, the ancient trade route connecting East and West.

Any meal at Madison's Silk Road must start with its fantastic homemade hummus ($4.99) topped with olive oil and chickpeas and served with fresh, delicious pita. I was so taken with the hummus for both taste and presentation that I got it again on a follow-up visit.

The tavuk kebab ($16.99) is another stunner, with giant chunks of juicy, grilled chicken breast. The gorgeous plate of food included rice, grilled tomato wedges, a pile of grilled onions, pita, charred baby sweet peppers and greens dressed with olive oil and vinegar.

Less exciting, but still good, was a ground beef version, adana kebab ($16.99), with char-grilled, well-seasoned, but slightly dry beef rolled up and stretching the length of the beautiful plate. It had all the same wonderful components of the chicken version.

The beef also came with a delightful homemade tomato-based sauce with cilantro and dill. Neither kebab was on a skewer, which made it easier to eat, and both are available as wraps.

A long, narrow piece of salmon ($17.99) was grilled over an open flame like the kebabs, benefitting from that cooking style and still managing to be moist and flavorful. It also came on a crowded plate, with chopped tomato and cucumber, rice sprinkled with chickpeas, and lime.

The fish was served with a gravy boat full of a creamy garlic sauce that also went well with the chicken kebab.

A pear salad ($11.99) had grilled chicken, greens, feta, and two ingredients I could've done without, raisins and walnuts.

Mercimek corbasi ($6.99), a bowl of soup described on the menu as having red lentils, onions, carrots and potatoes, was also disappointing: thin, weak and without many ingredients.

But a dessert called kunefe made up for that. It seemed expensive at $12.99, and was unusual in that it was both sweet and savory. Melted mozzarella cheese was surrounded by shredded phyllo dough and served with vanilla ice cream topped with ground pistachios. My companion thought it was too strange, but I was charmed.

One of my visits was at an odd time, 3:30 p.m. on a Thursday, and my server asked if I wanted tea or water. I chose tea, and she brought a beautiful cup and saucer ringed with gold, and a glass pot that had the tea steeping in a center compartment. She also dropped off a dish of sugar and plate of thinly sliced lemon. The tea service was elaborate and felt perfect on a cool, rainy day.

The tea wasn't on my bill, and when I asked if it was included in my meal, she seemed to say it was, but there was a bit of a language disconnect. Kholov told me later he likes to give out tea for free if a customer prefers tea over water.

On each of my three visits, Kholov came out from the open kitchen to see how the meal was going.

I enjoyed the music coming from the kitchen on my afternoon visit; it sounded regal. On an evening visit, the monitor next to the menu display screens had a guy playing trance-inducing sitar.

Kholov met his wife, American Hannah Hamelman, when they were both studying at Narxoz University in Kazakhstan. She visited him in Tajikistan, and they kept in touch when she came back to the states. They married when Kholov was 19 and Hamelman was 21.

After she came to UW-Madison for a master's degree, they chose Madison as their home and plan to raise a family here, Kholov said. Hamelman manages the restaurant.

The biggest knock against Silk Road, which opened Aug. 18, is that out front, by the street, it still has the prominent sign of the last occupant, Madtown Chicken N' Fish. But Kholov said he's getting a new sign in the next two weeks.

One time when I was there, a woman came in for fried chicken and was surprised to see the colorful tablecloths and a menu of kebabs and other food common to Tajikistan. The food could also be classified as Mediterranean.

Kholov admitted that having the Madtown sign has caused a lot of confusion, and said he's been saving money to get it replaced.

If only the woman looking for Madtown Chicken had tried Silk Roads tavuk kebab. There's no way a chicken lover could leave disappointed.

Diner's scorecard Restaurant: Silk Road Location: 1920 S. Park St. Phone: 608-467-6197 Website: silkroadmadison.com Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday Prices: Appetizers $4.99, soups $6.99 and $7.99, salads $9.99 to $12.99, wraps $14.99 and $16.99, entrees $16.99 to $20.99, desserts $11.99 and $12.99 Noise level: Low Credit cards: Yes Accessibility: Yes Outdoor dining: Yes Delivery: Through third-party apps. Delivery for catering they do themselves for free. Online ordering: Yes Drinks: No alcohol Gluten-free: Most of menu Vegetarian offerings: A few, no entrees Kids menu: No Parking: Lot Service: Good Bottom line: Eating here is more than a just having a great meal, it's an experience.
The Madison School Districts decision this week to shift some school start times to compensate for a lack of bus drivers is intended to ensure that kids get to school and back on time.

But changing schedules two months into the school year also can wreak havoc on schedules, with parents reconfiguring work and child care hours to accommodate the shifts.

The district announced Monday that it was shifting start times for 28 elementary and middle schools, by anywhere from five to 50 minutes, as a reaction to persistently tardy First Student buses.

First Student has blamed the problems on a lack of bus drivers, so the districts solution is to stagger start and end times so that fewer bus drivers are needed at one time. One driver can handle routes for schools starting at different times.

Because theres a dearth of drivers, we needed a solution that would allow us to maximize the usage of the ones we have, district spokesperson Ian Folger said in an email to the Wisconsin State Journal.

Since First Student started busing Madison students at the start of this school year, buses have frequently run up to an hour behind schedule, with three to 13 buses arriving more than 10 minutes late each day during the past couple of weeks. That means students have been missing instruction time, class schedules have been disrupted, kids have had to wait at bus stops for extended periods or find another way to get to school, and parents and caregivers have had to live in a state of flux.

The goal of the changes is to stabilize the system.

New routines

The new start times will make some families schedules easier.

Sarah Kirk, a parent with one child at Anana Elementary and another at Gillespie Middle School, said both schools now will start at the around the same time, instead of an hour apart. Kirk typically drives her elementary student to school, while her middle schooler takes the bus.

Anana had been starting at 7:40 a.m., but along with Henderson Elementary School is making a 50-minute shift to an 8:30 a.m. start time. Theyre the two schools experiencing the biggest change.

Im actually really looking forward to that because I dont have to get the kids up at different times and were not leaving at different times, Kirk said. We kind of get them both out of the door at the same time.

Other families, though, are finding the change harder.

Angela Wernberg, a parent to three children who attend Anana, said she and her husband will need to completely change their work schedules and after-school child care plans because, under the new schedule, theyll need to walk their kids to school and leave for work almost simultaneously.

Changing dismissal times will lead to problems, too. Anana and Henderson will now dismiss at 3:30 p.m. instead of 2:40 p.m. on non-early release days.

Wernberg fears she will lose the nanny who watches her three children after school because a later dismissal time will mean fewer hours for the nanny.

So far, Wernberg said she and her husband are considering finding child care for before school  an added expense. If their nanny falls through, they might ask their parents to start stepping in after school, she said.

Its a lot for us to process and we havent come up with any answers whatsoever yet, so its just going to be really different, she said.

The same goes for another Anana Elementary parent, Sarah Smith. She and her husband have little flexibility in their schedules to work around the new arrival and dismissal times. Smith said she will likely have to shorten her workday by an hour from now on to get her child to school at the new time.

Smiths also looking to the district to start offering more child care options for before school.

I felt like theres been no support in figuring out what we do now, she said.

Smith and Wernberg agreed there was little explanation from the district about the changes and why some schools saw more drastic shifts than others.

If the district is talking about increasing transparency, heres an opportunity to be really transparent about how a decision is made, Smith said.

The State Journal requested information from the school district about the decision-making Tuesday and Wednesday, but hadnt received answers as of 4 p.m. Wednesday.

The boards role

Changing school start times surfaced at a School Board meeting earlier this month as a possible solution to transportation woes. But administrators and board members were hesitant to change schedules almost two months into the school year.

The school district has been trying to address the persistent busing problems while ensuring that middle school students start no earlier than 8:40 a.m.  part of a best practices plan the School Board has struggled to implement since approving it in 2018.

School Board member Nicki Vander Meulen said Tuesday shes calling on other board members to reverse the start time changes at their Monday meeting. She says the changes should have been decided by a School Board vote, rather than by Interim Superintendent Lisa Kvistads office.

I am not OK with any start time changes that disproportionately affect our Black and brown students, our disabled students or our staff, Vander Meulen said Monday.

Another Anana Elementary School parent, Erica Janisch, said both the School Board and parents should have had a voice in the decision.

This is really not the first issue with transportation, and I think it scares parents that this might not be the first change that will be made, Janisch said.

Before any changes are reversed, a majority of the School Board would have to agree to take up the question at its meeting.

As of Wednesday afternoon, board member Maia Pearson said she was unsure whether the board had reached that point, but said the topic hadnt been added to the agenda for the meeting.

If we reversed the decision of the three-tier system (with each tier representing a start time for a set of schools) and go back to two tiers, we may still be in the same boat that we are in currently, where we dont have enough drivers to support it, she said.

Pearson said that during her time on the School Board it has not been the boards responsibility to vote on what time school starts and ends.

New provider

While the board did approve the contract with First Student in February, board members did not specifically vote on moving from a three-tier schedule to one with only two tiers. However, preference for a two-tier system was one of the reasons the district preferred First Student to its predecessor, Badger Bus, Pearson said.

She said that while the decision did come from the superintendents office, the School Board was briefed on the announcement and asked to give feedback.

Going through the School Board would likely have drawn out the decision-making process around start times for at least another month. By the time new bus routes could be implemented, students and families would have potentially been dealing with delayed buses well into December, Pearson said.

It is a very hard decision to make and then also to come to terms with, but what is the other alternative? she said.

Under the new system, many elementary schools will start and end five minutes earlier, including Chavez, Crestwood, Elvehjem, Emerson, Franklin, Hawthorne, Huegel, Lapham, Leopold, Lincoln, Lowell, Marquette, Mendota, Midvale, Muir, Nuestro Mundo, Olson, Randall, Southside, Stephens and Thoreau.

Five middle schools are shifting 20 minutes later and will now start at 9 a.m., instead of 8:40, and dismiss students at 4:30 p.m., instead of 4:10 on non-early release days. They are Black Hawk, OKeeffe, Sennett, Sherman and Whitehorse.

How the pandemic worsened teaching vacancies across the US How the pandemic worsened teaching vacancies across the US Certain teaching roles significantly more difficult to fill
Wisconsins public universities and colleges could be liable for up to $100,000 in damages and institutions could be cut off from state grants under a Republican-authored bill seeking to add civil penalties for violating a persons right to free speech.

The bill, AB553, would allow fines of $500 a day against the UW system or Wisconsin Technical College System if administrators are found by a court to have violated a persons free speech, with additional fines of $50 a day each day that the violation remains ongoing. Total fines could reach $100,000.

Currently, a judge decides the damages if a First Amendment violation took place. Some environmental statutes use an accumulating model to levy fines if a remedy is not undertaken, but that usually comes after its determined a violation has occurred. The model this bill sets up, where fees accumulate even before a judge has decided whether theres a violation, could be unconstitutional, UW-Madison political science professor Howard Schweber said.

A public hearing on the bill has been scheduled for Thursday.

If passed, the bill is almost certain to be vetoed by Gov. Tony Evers, who has vetoed legislation putting restrictions on UW system operations.

Under the bill, universities and colleges also could lose access to grants through the states Higher Educational Aids Board and be required to inform prospective students that the institution has violated free speech rights in the past four years.

Introduced by Rep. Dave Murphy, R-Greenville, chair of the Assembly Committee on Colleges and Universities; Rep. Amanda Nedweski, R-Pleasant Prairie; and Sen. Rachael Cabral-Guevara, R-Appleton, the bill is meant to protect innovation and independence, according to a memo seeking co-sponsors for the legislation.

In this time of workforce crisis, Wisconsin cannot afford to lose talented students to out-of-state schools simply because the UW System has become too ideologically biased, and it is imperative that Wisconsin parents and students are receiving a quality education equal to or exceeding their investment, the bills authors wrote.

This bill is a tool that aims to attract students and faculty from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ideologies who want to come to our universities and technical colleges to respectfully exchange ideas, to challenge the status quo, and ultimately, to innovate together toward a prosperous future for Wisconsin.

In a statement, UW system spokesperson Mark Pitsch said UWs policies for freedom of expression and academic freedom are among the most robust in the nation.

President (Jay) Rothman has made free expression and civil discourse a cornerstone of his tenure; in fact, just this week he is meeting with students on three different campuses to discuss these very topics, Pitsch said. We will review the bill in the context of our unwavering support for academic freedom and the First Amendment.

Persistent debate

The legislation is the latest in a yearslong debate about free speech on campus, as Republicans claim the Universities of Wisconsin, and especially UW-Madison, are hostile to free speech and conservative thought. It follows a series of hearings on free speech on UW system campuses held by the Legislature earlier this year, which were prompted by the systems controversial free speech survey that critics feared would be used for political purposes.

Under the bill, universities and colleges also would need to provide students or employees due process in any disciplinary hearings regarding speech for which they can be disciplined. The UW Board of Regents free speech and expression policy already guarantees students and employees due process.

As governmental agencies, both the UW system and WTCS already are prohibited from infringing on speakers constitutional right to free speech under the First Amendment, and both actively endorse academic freedom. UW Board of Regents free speech policies require all of its schools maintain neutrality by not requiring students or employees hold certain viewpoints on public policy issues.

The bill also would require UW system and WTCS to conduct free speech surveys of students and staff every two years. The UW systems free speech survey, conducted last November after being postponed over chancellor outcry, cost $200,000 to conduct, half covered by a donation from one of the states wealthiest families and the rest coming out of the UW systems trust fund.

The bill does not allocate any funds to either the UW system or WTCS to fund free speech surveys.

Free speech, and the parameters UW system schools can legally work within, has been a source of tension between students and administration, especially in recent months.

In May, students called for the expulsion of a white UW-Madison student filmed making racist statements about Black people on social media, which UW-Madison said it could not do under the students constitutional right to free speech. And earlier this month, when people demanded to know why UW-Madison didnt intervene in a pro-Palestinian protest that went viral on social media, the university again cited the First Amendment.

There have been a handful of free speech lawsuits against Wisconsins public colleges in recent years. In 2018, a Northwest Technical College student won a lawsuit after administrators stopped her from handing out valentines with biblical phrases on them; another case, involving UW-Madison hiding or deleting social media comments from a former researcher about primate research conditions, is going through the appeals process after a federal judge decided free speech rights did not apply.

Chilling effect

Some of the bills measures could undermine the goal of free speech that lawmakers are trying to achieve, Schweber said.

The threat of civil lawsuits could result in what Schweber described as a trickle-down chilling effect, where administrators direct employees to self-censor in an attempt to avoid litigation.

And the threat of rescinding access to state grants doesnt hurt a university as much as it hurts students who need financial aid to afford school. Without access to grants, higher-income students still would be able to attend college while low-income students could be shut out of state higher education, he said.

Thats exactly what a First Amendment chilling effect is all about: People fearing the possibility of legal consequences, engaging in self-censorship. I do think thats a danger, he said.

When you invite litigation in that way and when you threaten to do things like withhold grant money that are essential to the public mission of the institution, that creates very, very strong motivations  undoubtedly reinforced by the lawyers  on the part of campuses to just avoid risking the possibility of those sanctions being incurred.

Academic ambiguity

The bill also seeks to protect academic freedom of both employees and students in research, teaching and published works.

Schweber said the bills definition of academic freedom is ambiguous. The bill defines academic freedom as the right to teach, but theres no right for people to teach what they want if it doesnt fit a departments curriculum standards, Schweber said.

For example, a geology department doesnt have to allow a professor to teach that the Earth is flat, Schweber said. Similarly, administrators can decide for themselves what are good teaching practices versus bad, and direct employees accordingly, he said.

I dont think for a moment the drafters of this bill are trying to protect abusive teachers or people who teach manifestly wrong content to students, Schweber said. But I think that the drafters didnt think carefully enough about the scope of academic freedom in this context and overstated the case.

Republicans, at times, have railed against what they see as restrictions of free speech at UW system campuses. Murphy as well as other Republican lawmakers attempted to censor a UW-Madison class on racism in 2016 by threatening to cut the universitys budget over it; Murphy has since admitted those actions were wrong. But in an echo of that fight, Republicans cut the UW systems budget this year and are withholding UW employee pay raises unless the system eliminates all diversity, equity and inclusion programming.

Photos: Wisconsin volleyball sees historic streak end at Nebraska
Mexican authorities on Thursday gave the first human toll for Hurricane Otis' destruction along the country's Pacific coast: at least 27 dead and four missing. Tens of thousands of residents in damaged homes without electricity awaited help more than a day after Otis roared ashore in Acapulco.
The city of Madison properly assessed the value of a large Near East Side apartment complex, a state appeals court has ruled as part of an ongoing legal feud between the city and the owner of the 6-year-old multifamily complex.

The 4th District Court of Appeals on Thursday affirmed a Dane County Circuit Court judges decision that the citys assessment of Veritas Village LLC, 110 N. Livingston St., was not excessive, as was argued by developer Terrence Wall, whose company, T. Wall Enterprises, built the project.

Veritas Village, a four-story, 189-unit luxury apartment building with fitness room, courtyard, swimming pool and other amenities near Breese Stevens Field was completed in 2017, and the city initially valued the property at $17.8 million during its lease-up period in 2018.

But Veritas challenged the assessment with its consultant, Landretti and Co. of Middleton, calculating a value of $8.5 million based on the buildings vacancy rate as it filled up.

Veritas argues that the City was required to use the actual 72% vacancy rate that existed on January 1, 2018, rather than a vacancy rate that took into account leases that were anticipated to occur after that date, according to the decision. We disagree and therefore affirm the circuit court order.

The appeals court affirmed a previous ruling by Judge Mario White, who said the citys assessment conforms with the Wisconsin Property Assessment Manual, case law and state statutes, and that the citys appraisal and conclusions are more reliable, credible, and persuasive than the plaintiffs. Veritas appealed the decision.

City Assessor Michelle Drea said in an email the city was extremely pleased with the recent decision.

This decision and other court rulings upholding municipalities assessments of commercial properties are important to municipalities because reducing the tax base within the commercial sector of property ultimately shifts a greater share of the property tax burden to the homeowners in Madison, Drea said. The City believes the decision was well reasoned and written and is pleased that the decision is recommended for publication to be used as future precedent.

In a separate lawsuit filed by Veritas over the citys 2019 assessment of the property, Dane County Circuit Court Judge David Conway ruled the city underassessed other high-value, multifamily commercial apartments, but not Veritas Villages building at 110 N. Livingston St.

That violated the states uniformity clause, which requires the properties to be assessed equally, the judge ruled.

Conway ordered the city to reduce the assessment to 79.2% of its fair market value and issue a refund of roughly $146,500 in 2019 taxes plus interest.

The city has appealed the ruling.
RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP)  Israeli troops and tanks briefly raided northern Gaza overnight, the military said Thursday, engaging with Hamas fighters and targeting anti-tank weapons in order to prepare the battlefield before an expected ground invasion.

The third Israeli raid since the war began came after more than two weeks of devastating airstrikes that have left thousands dead, and more than 1 million displaced from their homes, in the small, densely-populated territory.

The U.S. military, meanwhile, launched airstrikes early Friday on two locations in eastern Syria linked to Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Pentagon said, in retaliation for drone and missile attacks against U.S. bases and personnel in the region that began early last week.

Arab leaders made a joint plea Thursday for a cease-fire to end civilian suffering and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza, where Israel has imposed a suffocating siege ever since Hamas rampage and hostage-taking in southern Israel ignited the war. Residents are running out of food, water and medicine, and U.N. workers have barely any fuel left to support relief missions.

The rising death toll in Gaza is unprecedented in the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Health Ministry in Hamas-ruled Gaza said Thursday more than 7,000 Palestinians have died in the fighting, a figure that could not be independently verified. Even greater loss of life could come if Israel launches a ground offensive aimed at crushing Hamas, which has ruled Gaza since 2007 and survived four previous wars with Israel.

More than 1,400 people in Israel, mostly civilians, were slain during the initial Hamas attack, according to the Israeli government.

The damage to Gaza from nearly three weeks of bombardment showed in satellite photos of several locations taken before the war and again in recent days.

Entire rows of residential buildings simply disappear in the photos, reduced to smears of dust and rubble. A complex of 13 high-rises by the sea was pounded to dust near Gaza City's al-Shati refugee camp, leaving only a few tottering bits of facade. Just down the street, hardly anything remained in what had been a neighborhood of low-built homes on winding lanes, according to the photos by Maxar Technologies.

New strikes Thursday leveled more than eight homes belonging to an extended family, killing at least 15 people in the southern city of Khan Younis. In the chaotic wasteland of crumbled concrete and twisted metal, rescuers lifted the body of a boy from beneath a slab.

The Israeli military said an airstrike killed one of two masterminds of the Oct. 7 massacre, Shadi Barud, the head of Hamas intelligence unit. The military says it only strikes militant targets and accuses Hamas of operating among civilians in an attempt to protect its fighters.

Palestinian militants have fired thousands of rockets into Israel since the war began. One struck a residential building in the central city of Petah Tikva, without wounding anyone.

Hamas military wing said Thursday that Israeli bombardment has so far killed about 50 of the at least 224 hostages the militants abducted during its Oct. 7 assault. There was no immediate comment from Israeli officials, who have denied previous, similar claims.

Family members and Jewish groups are trying to keep the spotlight on the hostages' plight. In Paris, 30 empty baby strollers were displayed in front of the Eiffel Tower  each with a photo of one of the children taken from Israel. A day earlier, blindfolded teddy bears with photos of the abducted children were placed in front of a fountain in Tel Aviv.

The conflict has threatened to ignite a wider war across the region.

Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed ally of Hamas in Lebanon, has repeatedly traded fire with Israel along the border. The United States has sent to the region two aircraft carrier strike groups, along with additional fighter jets and other weaponry and personnel.

In a statement Thursday night, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the strikes in eastern Syria were a response to a series of ongoing and mostly unsuccessful attacks against U.S. personnel in Iraq and Syria by Iranian-backed militia groups that began on Oct. 17.

He said President Joe Biden directed the narrowly tailored strikes to make clear that the United States will not tolerate such attacks and will defend itself, its personnel and its interests. He added that the operation was separate and distinct from Israels war against Hamas.

Israel has vowed to crush Hamas capacity to govern Gaza or threaten Israel again but also says it doesnt want to reoccupy the territory, from which it withdrew soldiers and settlers in 2005. That could prove a daunting challenge, since Hamas is deeply rooted in Gaza, with political and charity organizations as well as a formidable armed wing.

Benny Gantz, a retired general and a member of Israels war Cabinet, said any possible ground offensive would be only one stage in a long-term process that includes security, political and social aspects that will take years.

The campaign will soon ramp up with greater force, he added.

The overnight raid into Gaza was the largest of several known brief incursions. The military said soldiers and tanks killed fighters and destroyed tunnels and anti-tank missile launching positions. The military said no Israelis were wounded. There was no immediate confirmation of any Palestinian casualties.

Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesman, said the incursion was part of our preparations for the next stages of the war.

Israel also said it also carried out around 250 airstrikes across Gaza in the last 24 hours, targeting tunnel shafts, rocket launchers and other militant infrastructure. Its reported targeting could not be independently verified.

The figure of 7,000 deaths reported by the Gaza Health Ministry is more than three times the number of Palestinians killed in the six-week-long Gaza war in 2014. The ministrys toll includes more than 2,900 minors and more than 1,500 women.

After Biden said he had no confidence in Gaza's casualty figures, the Health Ministry on Thursday countered by releasing a more than 200-page document listing the names of 6,747 dead, including ages and gender. It said another 281 dead had not been identified and that hundreds still missing under rubble were not included in the count.

The warning by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, over depleting fuel supplies raised alarm that the humanitarian crisis could quickly worsen. Israel is still barring deliveries of fuel  needed to power generators  saying it believes Hamas will take it for military use.

About 1.4 million of Gazas 2.3 million residents have fled their homes, with nearly half of them crowding into U.N. shelters. Hundreds of thousands remain in northern Gaza, despite Israel ordering them to evacuate to the south and saying that those who remain might be considered accomplices of Hamas.

In recent days, Israel has let more than 70 trucks with aid enter from Egypt.

This is a small amount of what is required, a drop in the ocean, said William Schomburg, an official with the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza. We are trying to establish a pipeline.

Elsewhere, Egyptian state-run media outlet Al Qahera News reported early Friday that an explosion hit the Egyptian resort town of Taba, which is near the border with Israel. Five people were wounded. The cause of the blast was not immediately clear, and The Associated Press could not immediately confirm the details.

Nine Arab countries  including key U.S. allies and nations that have signed peace or normalization deals with Israel  issued a joint statement Thursday calling for an immediate cease-fire and an end to the targeting and death of civilians.

The right to self defense by the United Nations Charter does not justify blatant violations of humanitarian and international law, said the statement, signed by Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Morocco.

In the occupied West Bank, Israeli authorities detained 86 Palestinians, including five women, in multiple raids overnight, bringing the total detained there to more than 1,400, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club, which represents former and current prisoners. At least 104 Palestinians have been killed in violence in the West Bank.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP)  Beth Holloway was after one thing for 18 years: answers about what happened to her missing daughter.

She said she got them Wednesday when Joran van der Sloot, long considered the chief suspect in her daughters 2005 disappearance in Aruba, admitted in submitted court filings to bludgeoning Natalee Holloway to death on a beach and dragging her body out to sea.

Van der Sloot, 36, pleaded guilty on Wednesday to federal charges of attempting to extort money from Beth Holloway in 2010 in exchange for information about the location of her daughter's body. The plea agreement included an unusual provision for van der Sloot to provide all information and evidence about what happened to Natalee Holloway and to let her family hear him in real time give his account to federal investigators.

Beth Holloway said in an interview with The Associated Press that the family made the decision to allow the plea agreement to finally get the answers we've been searching for for all these years."

Natalee Holloway, 18, went missing during a high school graduation trip to Aruba with classmates. She was last seen May 30, 2005, leaving a bar with van der Sloot, a Dutch citizen and student at an international school on the Caribbean island where he grew up.

Natalee Holloway's disappearance quickly became an international sensation, filling evening newscasts with live reports from the island and photos of her smiling face. Her disappearance also spawned countless books, podcasts and movies.

Under the terms of the plea agreement, Natalee Holloways parents listened and watched several weeks ago as van der Sloot, under questioning from his own attorney, described what happened on the beach. Prosecutors filed excerpts of the conversation with the court.

He said Natalee Holloway was physically fighting his sexual advances and that he kicked her extremely hard in the face while she was still lying down. Van der Sloot said the teen was already unconscious, or even dead, when he picked up a nearby cinderblock and brought it down on her face.

I smash her head in with it completely," van der Sloot said, according to an Oct. 3 transcript of the meeting.

He then said he dragged her body until he was knee-deep in the waves and pushed her out to sea.

Its just blistering to your soul, and it hurts so deeply," Beth Holloway said of hearing the details. But you know that youre there in a functionality role because this is the moment where Ive been searching for for 18 years. Even as hard as it is to hear, it still not as torturous as the not knowing. It was time for me to know.

Dave Holloway, Natalees father, called van der Sloot evil personified in a statement issued after the sentencing hearing

He said that after witnessing the confession he believes van der Sloot killed his daughter but questioned his story of acting alone to dispose of her body and conceal the crime.

While I am satisfied that the defendant murdered Natalee alone, I have no doubt others provided him with aid and assistance in preventing us from being able to return Natalee home, Dave Holloway said.

Natalee Holloways body was never found during land and sea searches along the beach.

Beth Holloway said she recognized her feisty daughter in van der Sloots description of her kneeing him between legs when he refused to stop his sexual advances.

Yes, I said, Thats her, Beth Holloway recalled with a brief smile. She fought like hell. I think she fought like hell with her killer. She stood her ground.

Beth Holloway flew to Aruba in 2005, quickly piecing together that van der Sloot left the bar with her daughter, tracking him down and questioning him about what happened. What followed was 18 years of lies and taunts, but she believes they finally have obtained the truth, she said.

At the hearing Wednesday, Beth Holloway again stood in front of van der Sloot.

You are a killer, she told him. I want you to remember that every time that jail door slams.

Shackled and wearing an orange jail uniform, van der Sloot told the crowded courtroom he hopes his statement provides some closure.

I would like the chance to apologize to the Holloway family, to my own family, he said, later adding, I am no longer the person I was back then.

Mark White, an attorney for Dave Holloway, said he understands from law enforcement authorities that van der Sloot cannot be prosecuted in Aruba  even with his confession  because the statute of limitations has expired. The Aruba public prosecutors office said it was not immediately clear whether van der Sloot could face murder charges on the island. The investigation into Natalee Holloways disappearance is still open, and authorities will follow up on any serious leads, said Ann Angela, a prosecutors office spokesperson.

Peru agreed to temporarily extradite van der Sloot to the U.S. to face proceedings on the extortion charge. He is expected to be returned to Peru in the coming days after the settlement of the U.S. criminal case.

His 20-year sentence for extortion will run concurrently with prison time hes serving for another killing in Peru.

Van der Sloots guilty plea in a crowded courtroom, a few miles from where Natalee Holloway attended high school, came three days before what would have been her 37th birthday. She had planned to go to medical school, her mother said.

"I fully believe now, today, she would be a doctor, married, children," Beth Holloway said.

She said she is undecided how she will spend her daughter's birthday but that she feels like now the never-ending nightmare is over.
Going to the doctor can be a pain.

Weve all booked another appointment without answers trying to figure out a series of stomach pains, a crazy weeks-long migraine, or why a prescribed medication isnt working.

But add this to the equation: You dont have health insurance to cover the bills piling up for every unanswered visit; doctors dont understand your broken English so you have to communicate through a translator or through a family member; theres a lack of specialized or culturally competent healthcare professionals that understand your history and background; and you lack understanding of your emotions because of mental health stigma, taboos and other misperceptions within the Hispanic community.

Itll all go away, right?

Wrong.

Adolfo Andazola-Carmona, a medical student at the University of Washington specializing in family medicine is working toward normalizing conversations of finances, health and mental health stigmas in the Latino community in south-central Idaho with the Spanish podcast El Show de Fin y Sal.

Right now, the project is to bring more awareness about mental health, Andazola-Carmona told the Times-News. The goal is to bring some of the local counselors in the area who actually speak Spanish and then have them talk about the impact they have in the community, what they do and talk about a specific topic like depression and anxiety.

Andazola-Carmona, who was born in Mexico and moved to Carey when he was 10 years old, said he knew he wanted to go into medicine when he was 7 years old after his mom got sick and doctors didnt know what was going on.

That was until they went to a specialist.

We went to go see a specialist, where my mom went through some treatment, and after a few weeks, she went back to her normal state of health, Andazola-Carmona said. So from that point on, I got a lot of admiration and respect for that one doctor. Without knowing my mom, you know, she did everything she could just to help.

His interest in mental health and finances didnt come until later, though, after he saw the lack of knowledge much of the Latino community held in both topics.

I would work with a lot of Latinos who never went to the hospital  who never went to go see a doctor basically  and they had conditions that could have been prevented for sure if they only had to seek help, Andazola-Carmona said.

Andazola-Carmona was having lunch with his friend Edgar Carrasco, a respiratory therapist, when Carrasco brought up the idea of a podcast.

A lightbulb went off in Andazola-Carmonas head, and by their second meeting, they already had a name.

When we met again, he came up with the name of El Show de Fin y Sal, Andazola-Carmona said. Fin for finanzas (finances) and sal for salud (health).

With their busy schedules, theyve only put out seven episodes since their first in 2020 but are actively working on a couple of projects where local counselors would be joining them.

I was looking for some Latino counselors in the area, and I think I found like five, Andazola-Carmona told the Times-News. We dont have the resources, we dont have the people so the goal with this is to also encourage more and more students within our community to go into counseling because theres such a huge, huge need for them.

Experiencing a mental health crisis? If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, Idaho's 988 suicide and crisis lifeline is free, confidential and staffed 24 hours by trained crisis responders who answer every call and text message. Dial 988.

In the 2021 Hispanic Profile Data Book, the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs says that about one-fourth of Idaho Hispanics speak English less than very well making it not only hard in social settings but also in settings of medical necessity.

Shoshone is among the towns with a high percentage  37%  of Hispanics who dont speak English very well, while Jerome has a percentage of 26%. In Twin Falls, 17% of Hispanics dont speak Spanish well, and 6% dont speak English at all.

In another report from Idaho State University and the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs this year about health disparities between Hispanic and non-Hispanic Idahoans, it reports that while 13% of the state population is Hispanic, only 5% of nurses are Hispanic.

The more people see topics about this, like I said, the more comfortable they will get, and maybe they will be more open to just seek therapy for themselves, or, you know, for their kids or their relatives, Andazola-Carmona told the Times-News. I mean, medication is a great alternative, obviously, but therapy is the main thing.

College of Southern Idaho students Ximena Villafana-Cuevas and Isael Prado noticed the mental health stigma that revolves around the Hispanic community at a very young age mentioning that mental health topics were always avoided. They hope to change that through their studies in social work.

When were talking about mental illness and whats going on within whats internal, it diminishes our perception on what we want to portray ourselves to be, Prado told the Times-News. And as a dude, as a man  I feel like our masculinity is very fragile. When talking about mental health, mental illness, it hurts our masculinity and makes us like look weak or vulnerable.

The term machismo has long been used within the Latino community to describe the culture embedded within this group, where they have a strong sense of masculine pride.

Some of these alpha male characteristics  such as showing dominance and being a leader  are expected. But these characteristics have been shown to lead men to a lack of understanding of their emotions or to hold in their emotions.

People, especially the men in my family  I never see any of them cry. The most is probably once, Prado said. We really, really need to work on this. And I feel like being in social work gives me that opportunity toward that goal of helping people and helping them overcome with what weve grown up with.

Both students, however, have found a breakthrough with their families since attending college, saying their parents ask them more regularly how they are doing and how college is going.

I opened up to my mom recently about stuff that happened to me like four years ago and one of the things that she did was she supported me in finding a psychiatrist, Villafana-Cuevas said. I found out I have really high levels of PTSD and anxiety. So getting that paper back and showing her what I have and getting coping mechanisms  she became more understanding.

Now she calls me every other day.

Want to hear the El Show de Fin y Sal podcast? To listen to "El Show de Fin y Sal" podcast, go to podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/el-show-de-fin-y-sal/id1544692682.